Local News
WATCH: Warren County Artisan Trail’s first Lunch N’ Learn
FRONT ROYAL, VA – Community artisans and supporters came out today, May 3, to learn how they can participate in the newly forming Warren County Artisan Trail.
Artisan Trails is part of a Virginia Network connecting creative & agricultural artisan studios/farms, art-related venues, restaurants, unique lodging and cultural points of interest to engage communities and enhance visitor experiences.
The Artisans Center of Virginia (ACV), in partnership with community members, tourism, economic development and local government representing the Town of Front Royal and Warren County are kicking off the development of the Commonwealth’s newest artisan trail.
The Warren County Artisan Trail (working title) will be the 34th artisan trail in the Commonwealth and joins other popular trails on Virginia’s Artisan Trail Network such as the Loudoun County Artisan Trail and the overlaying Virginia Oyster Trail.
The Artisan Trail will encourage visitors to discover Virginia’s four regions by connecting artist studios, galleries, local farms, wineries, craft breweries, farmers markets, distilleries, cideries, restaurants, hotels, boutiques, and other artisanal and agri-tourism based businesses.
According to Richmond based Chmura Economics and Analytics, the total economic impact of the artisan industry in Virginia in 2014 was $572.2 million, providing $15.6 million in state tax revenue for the Commonwealth, and nearly 12,000 full-time jobs were supported by artisan visitor spending. Artisan tourist spending totaled more than $250 million, with the average tourist spending $260 per person, per
trip.
“As a local Virginia Business in Warren County for 54+ years, we have seen the enchantment and charm our community has on the
guests from both here and around the globe. Witnessing first-hand the talents of our artisans, Mother Nature in her glory, smiling
faces, creative souls and the ardent fans of our homeland, has made us realize how very special we are. We open our arms, shake
your hands and encourage all to see and feel our blessings. Virginia Is For Lover’s and Warren County invites you here to enjoy our Artisan Trail!” – George McIntyre, The Apple House
“Our local creative and agricultural artisans, small businesses, and unique points of historical interest in our community make Warren County a special place to live and a great place to visit and explore. As artists and new business owners, we are excited to see the development of the Artisan Trail in Warren County.” – Tiffany Budzisz, Art in the Valley
The trail’s local action team- made up of local artists and arts advocates, hospitality and cultural businesses, and tourism and economic development representatives- represents a public-private initiative to further strengthen the relationships and connectivity of local businesses while emphasizing unique experiences, special places and locally-made products in the region.
“On behalf of tourism for the Town and County, we are excited to see this Artisan Trail come to fruition. This trail gives us another avenue to not only entice new visitors to our area, but to also remind our locals of all that we have to offer.” – Felicia Hart, Director – Community Development and Tourism
The Warren County Artisan Trail Management Team (in alphabetical order)
• Michael and Tiffany Budzisz, Art in the Valley
• Niki Foster Cales, Front Royal/ Warren CountyChamber of Commerce
• Alyssa Crump, Dance Educator and Arts Manager
• Kym Crump, Blue Ridge Arts Council
• Craig Laird, The Vine and Leaf and Front Royal
Independent Business Alliance (FRIBA)
• Arline Link, The Kiln Doctor
• Holly Link, The Kiln Doctor
• George McIntyre, The Apple House
• Amber Mitchell, The Apple House
• Chris Pollock, Rainbow View Cabin
The team’s next steps include identifying potential participating artisans and local businesses, public awareness gatherings, a process to build consensus for the Trail’s distinctive name and the development of promotional materials and activities to support the program and its participants.
“As a 30-year-old arts organization, dedicated to building community through the arts by providing a wide variety of visual and performance arts programming, education, and experiences, Blue Ridge Arts Council is excited to partner in this exciting new project! Blue Ridge Arts Council understands the vital impact that arts and culture have on tourism and local business. The introduction of this Artisan Trail is a positive contribution to our ever-growing community, and we look forward to showcasing the vibrant creativity of local artisans, agri-businesses, historical attractions, unique lodgings and restaurants, and recreational experiences to those at home and far away.” – Kym Crump, Executive Director, Blue Ridge Arts Council
MONTHLY GATHERINGS
Each month during the enrollment period the Trail’s Management Team will host a public gathering for those interested in learning about the program. These informal gatherings will be held in different locations around the region. Anyone interested in learning about the Artisan Trail program is invited to attend.
WATCH: Warren County Artisan Trail’s first Lunch N’ Learn public informational gathering:
GETTING STARTED
In addition to the craft, artist and agricultural artisan businesses, supporting sites such as locally owned lodging, restaurants, and cultural points of interest are welcome to become participants on the Trail.
For information on how to become a trail site, visit www.ArtisanTrailNetwork download the “Artisan Trail Network Participation Details” explaining the participation criteria and program or contact the Artisans Center of Virginia at trails@artisanscenterofvirginia.org
About Warren County:
Nestled in the Shenandoah Valley on the eastern edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Warren County’s impressive mix of natural beauty, history, small town allure and modern convenience make it an exceptional place to visit and experience Virginia artisanry . Located at the confluence of the North and South Forks of the renowned Shenandoah River, the County offers access for boating, kayaking and canoeing adventures.
Warren is also the gateway to the Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive which provides spectacular views of the
countryside, South Fork of the Shenandoah River, and George Washington National Forest. Nearby local wineries, hiking, fishing, golfing, biking and horseback riding opportunities are also abundant.
About the Artisans Center of Virginia:
The Artisans Center of Virginia (ACV) develops and implements systems and strategies to improve economic outcomes for Virginia artisans and their communities while assisting them in promoting their local artisan culture. As the official state-designated non-profit dedicated to providing opportunities for Virginia Artisans (creative and agricultural) and to the benefit of the communities in which they reside, ACV is implementing a defined plan of strategic initiatives across the Commonwealth. For more information, visit ArtisansCenterofVirginia.org or follow on Twitter @ACVArtisans or @VAArtisanTrails
The state of Virginia’s “official” artisan organization, the Artisans Center of Virginia, is supported by its members and other program partners like the Virginia Tourism Corporation with additional support made possible for the Artisan Trail Network program by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development and local foundations and community sponsors in regional trail jurisdictions.
What is a Creative Artisan?
A Creative Artisan creates art works that can be three-dimensional crafts which are often to be used functionally or artists who create fine craft and/or two-dimensional art pieces. Each type of Creative Artisan works with a high degree of artistry and fine craftsmanship. For
the Artisan form follows function, and the work of the Artisan speaks to the simple honesty of that paradigm. The Artisan pours himself into his art making his/her authentic works with pride, honesty, and integrity. Whether using hand tools or machines, the Creative Artisan takes no shortcuts that might compromise the quality of the work. The Artisan does not attempt to compete with the large scale manufacturer, and the amount of time taken to make a work of fine art or craft is secondary to the result.
What is an Agri-Artisan (a.k.a Agro-Artisan, Aqua-Artisan)? Agricultural-based, an Agri-Artisan relies on the natural resources of the land while reconciling a preservation of America’s past as they operate businesses such as family farms, vineyards, wineries, breweries, orchards, watermen/aqua-culture, organic farming, roadside stands, etc. Many embrace traditional farm practices, capturing a way of life
unique to the rural and agricultural communities where they reside, retaining the culture and character passed on to them by previous generations. Such enterprises produce food, fiber, unique crops or livestock, add value to traditional agricultural products, or offer recreation, education, nature or other farm based activities, such as markets and roadside stands.
Website: http://artisantrailnetwork.org/
Warren County Artisan Trail Supporters include:
Chamber News
Melodies on Main: Community Cheers as Money Pit Recording Studio Opens Doors
Local News
Blue Ridge Wildlife Center Patient of the Week: American Toad
Please remember to check your lawn before you mow!
This beautiful American toad was hit by a lawnmower on Saturday and suffered injuries to the right wrist and right hind leg.
Unfortunately, due to the level of trauma, the right hind leg required amputation at the level of the knee, which was performed once the patient was stabilized.
This patient is still eligible for release once recovered and will do just fine in the wild, even with one less leg to hop on!
This time of year we see species of all kinds come into care with injuries inflicted by mowers and weedwhackers. Luckily, injuries like this are preventable in many cases.
Some people will sweep their lawn with a broom to flush out any animals that may be hiding (also a great way to find and protect a bunny nest). You can also enlist a child, partner, or friend to keep you company while you mow by walking a few feet ahead and checking for wildlife as they go!
Or, if you are looking for an alternative to a turf grass lawn, consider replacing some or all of it with native plants! Traditional lawns provide little functional space for wildlife, use excessive water, and often introduce fertilizers and pesticides that damage our environment.
Reducing the need to mow and creating beautiful and healthy habitat for native wildlife is a win-win!
Looking for an easy way to help native wildlife? Become a monthly BRWC donor! For as little as $5/month, you can provide year-round, sustainable support that helps us fulfill our mission.
Local News
Warren County Virginia Sheriff’s Office Rallies Support for Deputy Whose Home Was Severely Damaged by a Fire
In an urgent Facebook post on Monday, April 22, Sheriff Crystal Cline alerted the community to the plight of a deputy whose home was severely damaged by a fire that day.
“This morning, we were reminded of the unpredictable challenges that life can throw at us,” she wrote. “One of my deputies faced a heartbreaking tragedy when a fire severely damaged his home, resulting in the loss of everything he held dear, including his beloved pet.
“This deputy has lived his life on the frontlines—he served in the Army, then as a volunteer and professional firefighter, and now as a deputy with the Warren County Sheriff’s Office serving our community.
“Your support, whether through prayer, donations, or financial contributions, will help provide the immediate needs of shelter, clothing, and other essentials during this critical time. The Warren County Sheriff’s Office (200 Skyline Vista Drive, Front Royal, VA) will be a drop-off location for any physical items or financial donations—ask for Jenn.
I appreciate your kindness, generosity, and support. We are more than a community; we are a FAMILY!”
Out of respect for the deputy, his identity was not revealed. Even so, the sheriff’s Facebook page has been inundated by people who want to help. Many types of donations are welcome, as the sheriff emphasized, and for those specifically wanting to make online financial contributions, a link is provided on the WCSO’s page. Michael Glavis of the WCSO has organized that site for raising funds, the “Sheriff Deputy House Fire Relief Fund.” Glavis considers the deputy a dear friend and work colleague. “He has given blood and sweat for others, and now I’m asking for everyone to give a little to help him and his family through the process of recovery,” Glavis said.
Local News
Illuminating Futures: Celebrating Achievements and Exploring Quantum Computing at ‘This is IT!’ Event
The “This Is IT!” club of Warren County, Virginia, marked another milestone as a hub for budding IT enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds. The club, which started in 2023, has quickly become a cornerstone for students interested in the ever-evolving world of information technology.
At the ‘This is IT!’ club gathering at the Samuels Public Library on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, students and community members came together to celebrate and learn. The club includes 9th to 12th-grade students from public, private, and homeschool backgrounds and is aimed to ignite curiosity and reward academic excellence in information technology and quantum computing.
The ceremony kicked off with an introduction by Melissa Chapman, an instructor involved with the club. She set the stage for a night that was not only about recognition but also about expanding young minds. “Understanding the vocabulary of quantum computing is the first step towards mastery,” Chapman remarked, highlighting the importance of foundational knowledge in this cutting-edge field.
The focal point of the evening was the guest lecture by Dr. Bruce Chesley, an aerospace engineer who adeptly connected the seemingly distant realms of space exploration and quantum computing. With palpable enthusiasm, Dr. Chesley described how quantum technologies could revolutionize our approach to exploring the cosmos. His talk made the complex topics accessible and entertaining, captivating the aspiring scientists in attendance.
Amidst the talks, the club took a moment to honor its bright young members through a scholarship awards ceremony. Scholarships were awarded to students who have shown exceptional prowess in STEM fields. These awards are a testament to the community’s support for its young learners and a major encouragement for them to pursue further education in technology. The winners were Jude O’Neal, Elijah Hambric, Jack Gillespie, Benedict Keough, Matthias Biedler, and Uli Duke.
Local News
The Apple Blossom Coronation Legacy Continues for the Historical Event
For the first time in the history of the Shenandoah Apple Bossom Festival® three consecutive generations in a family will have served as Queen Shenandoah. Susan Ford Bales, Queen in 1975, and Tyne Vance Berlanga, Queen in 2001, will be accompanying Joy Elizabeth Berlanga as she assumes her role as Queen Shenandoah XCVII.
The Crowning Ceremony entertains from regal pomp and circumstance to joyful enthusiasm of Little Maids and Pages who are ever present to serve their Queen. The youthful court interchange historical and educational facts from the British Crown to learning about a United States President – to asking, “Who has the Crown?,” and with dancing. The Queen will be crowned at the memorable Coronation celebration under the direction of Elaine B. Aikens. The Ceremony to install the new sovereign is sponsored by Morgan Orthodontics, on Friday, May 3 at 1:30 p.m.at Handley High School. President Gerald Ford crowned Susan. Susan crowned Tyne, and Joy will be crowned by her mother and escorted by her grandmother.
Susan, Joy’s grandmother, is a Virginia native and now resides in Texas. She is the daughter of President Gerald R. Ford and Betty Ford. Susan is the mother of two daughters, Tyne Berlanga and Heather Deavers, five grandchildren, Joy Elizabeth Berlanga, Cruz Vance Berlanga, Elizabeth Blanch Deavers, Jude Deavers, and Sullivan Bales, and three stepsons, Kevin, Matthew, and Andrew Bales.
Susan was raised in Alexandria, Virginia and attended Holton Arms School and the University of Kansas, where she studied photojournalism. She is the recipient of an Honorary Doctorate of Public Service degree, an Honorary Doctorate of Letters degree, and an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters degree. She is the author of two novels set in the Whie House, “Double Exposure: A First Daughter Mystery”, and its sequel, “Sharp Focus.”
Susan is the Ship’s Sponsor for the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), which she officially christened on November 9, 2013. On April 8, 2016, in recognition of her service as the Ship’s Sponsor, she was named an Honorary Naval Aviator by the United States Navy, becoming only the 31st American to receive this distinction. And history was made with her selection – Susan is the first woman to be chosen as an Honorary Naval Aviator.
During her high school years, Susan lived in the White House and served as official White House hostess following her mother’s surgery for breast cancer in 1974. In 1984, she and her mother helped launch National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Susan subsequently served as national spokesperson for breast cancer awareness. Since the founding of the Betty Ford Center in 1982, Susan worked side by side with her mother on projects at the Center and was elected to the Center’s Board of Directors in 1992. She succeeded her mother as Chairman of the Board 2005-2010, and currently serves on the board of directors of Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation.
In addition to her many charitable public service activities, Susan serves as Co-Trustee of the President Gerald R. Ford Historical Legacy, Trustee, Trustee of the Elizabeth B. Ford Charitable Trust, and the Honorary Advisory Committee of the Children’s National Medical Center.
Tyne, mother of Joy, Queen-designate, resides in Frisco, TX with her husband Hector and two children, Joy and Cruz. She serves as a marketing manager for Western Son. With a passion for community involvement, Tyne sits on multiple school booster club boards for all her children’s activities.
On Tyne’s departure as Queen she reflected, “It was easy to be kind, gracious and humble Queen when surrounded by the people of Winchester. My five-day reign as Queen Shenandoah was an occasion that will have a special place in my heart. I have formed friendships and made memories that will hopefully stay with me for a long time to come. On Sunday morning I was doing an exit interview with one of the reporters and he asked me, “If l had a daughter would I let her be Queen?” My answer was immediately “Yes, if she’s lucky enough to be given this opportunity.” Now, Tyne eagerly anticipates returning to Winchester where Joy is set to embark on a remarkable journey, echoing Tyne’s own experiences from 23 years prior. It’s truly heartwarming to be able to share this moment with both her mother and daughter.
The Queen and her family will ride in the Hang 10 Firefighters’ Parade Friday evening at 5:30 and the glo fiber Grand Feature Parade on Saturday, May 4 at 1:30 p.m. Queen-designate Joy and her family will be making appearances at Festival events during the weekend.
Tickets to Festival events are available at www.thebloom.com/events.
Community Events
Valley Chorale Announces Upcoming Spring Concerts in Middletown and Front Royal
The Valley Chorale presents “Wishing On a Song – Music in the Key of Hope”, a spring concert exploring aspirations of love, home, spirituality and compassion that unite and uplift us all. With styles ranging from light classical and sacred to vocal jazz, spirituals and pop, The Valley Chorale strives to capture the hopes that unite us.
The Valley Chorale is known throughout the Shenandoah Valley for innovation and excellence, with piano, cello and percussion accompaniment, and their concerts are often a heart-warming experience for all. They welcome babies and tots, so no need to hire a babysitter.
Tickets can be purchased on their website TheValleyChorale.org — $15 for age 21+ (free under age 21) or at the door for $17.
SATURDAY, MAY 4, 3:00 – 4:15 PM
Belle Grove Plantation (Bank Barn), 336 Belle Grove Road, Middletown, VA
SUNDAY, MAY 5, 3:00 – 4:15 PM
First Baptist Church, 14 W. 1st Street, Front Royal, VA (Community Reception to follow)
For further information, visit the website: TheValleyChorale.org: follow them on Facebook; email them at TheValleyChorale@gmail.com or call at 540-635-4842.
(From a Release by The Valley Chorale)