April 27, 2023

Widow still seeks answers to husband’s death

By ALEX BRIDGES

For the Page News and Courier

The widow of Ralph Ennis says his death last April several days after a confrontation with Warren County deputies still feels like “a bad dream.”

Linda Ennis also says the sheriff’s deputies used unnecessary force against her husband, a 77-yearold man who suffered from dementia, during a traffic stop on pril , . e died at Blue idge ospice on April 15.

The Virginia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner ruled that Ralph Ennis died from “natural causes. owever, alph En nis’ son, Ian Ennis, claims in an ongoing $6 million lawsuit that his father died from severe head trauma caused by deputies’ use of excessive force after they pulled him over for speeding. A video recording captured sheriff’s deputies tackling Ralph Ennis to the ground.

“I didn’t want him on the road, and I tried to get his license taken but they weren’t willing to take his license,” Linda Ennis said by phone last week about her late husband. “What I was worried about most about his being on the road was forgetting

where he was, having a spell, and he had gotten lost a couple of times. There had been a couple of senior alerts out for him.”

Linda Ennis recalled the moment she learned her husband had been involved in the altercation with law enforcement offi cers and taken to a hospital.

“I was really shocked,” Linda Ennis said. “Everything’s still ... unresolved.”

But Linda Ennis heard the news while in the hospital herself for a serious illness and an emergency surgery. She heard little else from law enforcement as she remained a patient at a hospital near her home in Bedford County, Pennsylvania.

“I wasn’t really kept in the

loop at all,” Linda Ennis said. “I never got a call from the sheriff’s department other than the night they stopped him. “They had called and let me know they had stopped him and that he had been injured and they were transporting him to the hospital in Front Royal,” Linda Ennis said. “Then I got a call later that night that he had shown signs of a brain bleed and they were transferring him to Winchester (Medical Center) trauma and that was pretty much it. That was the extent of the information I received from the sheriff’s department.”

Linda Ennis remained in the Pennsylvania hospital unable to visit her husband in Winchester

Students in Page County succeed at FCCLA conference

From PNC Staff Reports

Students representing the middle and high schools of Page County schools have a lot to be proud of after attending the FCCLA (Family Career, and Community Leaders of America) Va, a press release stated.

State Leadership and Recognition conference in Virginia Beach this past weekend. More than , students were in attendance from Thursday, April 13, through Sunday, April 16. Page County had 38 student representatives and four advisers in attendance. FCCLA’s mission is to promote personal growth and leadership development through Family and Consumer Sciences education.

Focusing on the multiple roles of family member, wage earner, and community leader, members develop skills for life through character development, creative and critical thinking, interpersonal communication, practical knowledge, and career preparation.

or several students this was their first time

attending and competing at SLRC, while others have been attending and competing for several years. The county’s participating students included some CCL state officers. hile oey Miller, a freshman at age County igh School, has concluded his term as the irginia CCL State ice resident of Parliamentary Law; Manuel Coronel Cardoso, a unior at age igh School, was elected and inducted as the Virginia FCCLA State President at the convention.

During the conference, students had the opportunity to take part in leadership courses and workshops, network with students from other schools across the state, and other fun and engaging activities. The students also competed in STAR events (Students Taking Action with Recognition). STAR events are competitive events in which members are recognized for proficiency and achievement in chapter and individual projects, leadership skills, and career preparation. Students ranked within the top

• Nell Sedwick Hite, 90, of Luray

• Elta Rae Griffith Jenkins, 76, of Luray

• Frances B. Kane, 100, of Winchester

two of their event category qualified to com pete in Denver, CO and the FCCLA National Leadership Conference. The NLC runs from uly through uly . Students and advisers alike say that the irginia SL C was definitely a conference that challenged, informed, and motivated the Page County FCCLA students. A huge congratulations to all medal winners, national qualifiers, chapters, and advisers for being recognized for their accomplishments, the press release stated.

Each group is seeking donations to help with expenses for their upcoming trip (plane tickets, rooms, meals) to the FCCLA National Leadership Conference. Students and advisers pay for this conference out of their own pockets and some students will not be able to attend if they can not afford to. Please contact the schools for more information on how you can help send our page county students to represent us nationally at the FCCLA National Conference in Denver, CO, uly .

before he died. She underwent two more surgeries, the latter of which prevented her from attending his funeral service, she said.

“I haven’t had closure yet,” Linda Ennis said. “It’s all still almost like it was just a bad dream.”

“Anybody that sees the video of that night can pretty much form their own opinion,” said Linda Ennis, adding that her late husband was “not a big man,” and was also hard of hearing. “ e walked like he was an old man, she said. “ e did not look like anyone that the police would need to handle the way they did.”

Daisy’s Country Cravings

Market & Deli celebrates its grand opening

From PNC Staff Reports

The Luray-Page County Chamber of Commerce had the honor of celebrating the grand opening of Daisy’s Country Cravings Market & Deli with a special ribbon cutting.

“Whenver a new option for hot and fresh food opens, we get excited. A place like Daisy’s not only gives people an option for classic southern favorites, but also gives people the chance to stock up for a day on the river, a hike, or just snacks for their work day. aving locals like Daisy invest in the Page County Business Community is what a small town is all about”, said Regina illiard, resident of the Luray-Page County Chamber of Commerce.

Daisy Jones, owner of Daisy’s Country Cravings Market & Deli, opened her doors on January 9. A life-long Page County resident, Daisy knew the importance of keeping a business in Page County running. When the space they are in came up for rent, Daisy jumped at the opportunity to take it over. Visitors to Daisy’s Country Cravings Market & Deli can enjoy convenience items, fresh produce, jams, jellies, freshly made southern food and other options like subs, burgers, and more. They also operate a gas station, where drivers can get non-ethnoal gas and off-road diesel fuel. When asked about her business, Daisy said they offer their customers “delicious freshly prepared meals served with a smile with the comforts of home.” Guests who attended the ribbon cutting got the chance to enjoy breakfast served by Daisy.

During the ribbon cutting ceremony, we were honored to be joined by President of the

Contributed photo

Page County had 38 student representatives and four advisers in attendance at the FCCLA State Leadership and Recognition conference.

Ralph Ennis

Something we don’t want to talk about but should

By ALENA ROTS Page News and Courier Columnist

Today I’m going to write about something that most people don’t like to talk about but we have got to do sooner or later. The sooner we get it done, the better. Have you thought about your final arrangements?

o matter if you are fifty or eighty, you should discuss it with a loved one, your attorney or have it written down

From the Chamber

Chamber Events

Thursday, May 11, from 2–3 p.m., is Business Seminar – Creating with Canva. Join Janet Michael from Java Media for a FREE webinar “Creating with Canva” on Thursday, May 11, from 2p.m. – 3p.m. via Zoom. The webinar is free, but registration is required. Janet will give an overview for using templates to create

Community Events

April 28

There will be a spring celebration at Luray United Methodist Church from 5–7p.m. Pasta salad, dessert and bread will be served. This will be a benefit for church missions.

May 5

A yard sale benefit is planned at the Luray United Methodist Church fellowship hall from 9 a.m. — noon on Friday, May 5, and Saturday, May 6. Enter at the Broad Street entrance, down the steps off the sidewalk. The sale will offer a variety of items for purchase. Proceeds from this sale, sponsored by the United Women in Faith, will be used for missions — helping people in the community and beyond.

May 20 2023 Memorial Festival Pageant Page County High School (184 Panther Drive, Shenandoah, VA 22849) 11a.m. Pageant is for boys 0-4 years, girls 0-23 months, girls 2-3 years, girls 4-6 years, girls 7-9 years, girls 10-12 years, girls 13-15 years, girls 16-

Ongoing Community Events

Gardening advice, plant clinics and free garden talks

The Northern Shenandoah Valley Master Gardener Association will hold free plant clinics from 10 a.m. – 1p.m. on the second and fourth Saturdays from April through October at Massanutten Country Corner, 3546 U.S. Hwy. 211 West, Luray.

Residents are invited to stop by and get help to diagnose a plant pest or disease; to identify a plant, bug or weed; or to get planting or landscaping advice. The plant clinic schedule includes: May 13 and 27, June 10 and 24, July 8 and 22, Aug. 12 and 26, Sept. 9 and 23, and Oct. 14 and 28. Each plant clinic will also include a garden talk at 11 a.m. with a different topic each time. April 22 topic is Garden Soil Preparation.

somewhere where the person who is responsible will know what to do when the time comes.

What am I talking about?

Your final arrangements, of course. I don’t like to talk about it either, but it has to be done. If you are thinking, “Forget it. Somebody will make all the arrangements.” Sure they will, but wouldn’t it be nice if they knew a little something about what they were doing instead of them worrying if they were doing

social media posts flyers, plus other uses/reasons to add Canva to your marketing toolkit. Attendance is free but registration is REQUIRED. Register here: https://link. edgepilot. com/s/d1bde06f/mvid0uhAEEm2Fbf0hRaPZQ?u=https://bit. ly/40fc2rB. This webinar is in partnership with the Luray/Page County Chamber of Commerce. Chamber membership is not re -

21 years (not married or have had a child), and Elegant Ms. 22 and up. Please contact Tina Hughes for more information 540-5780511.

Stanley United Methodist Church, 162 E. Main St., Stanley, will hold a rummage sale 10a.m. – 2 p.m. It will be indoor. parking lot beside the church

May 26 Cruz-in on First Street, Shenandoah, VA 22849 6 p.m. – 9p.m. Sponsored by Jr’s Tire Service. Flag Retirement by Boy Scout Troop 8 Veterans Park (205 Virginia Avenue, Shenandoah, VA 22849) 7p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

May 27

New to this year’s Memorial Festival, hosted by the town of Shenandoah, will be a craft show and yard sale on Saturday, May 27. Spaces are available for $10 (10x20), with a $35 charge for food vendors. To register or for more information, contact Bobbi Jo Good at 540-810-6113 or email Brenda Haggett at efgva@yahoo.com.

Dog Show Carnival

Grounds between Second and Third Street, Shenandoah, VA 22849 8a.m. to 10 p.m. $5.00 registration fee due the day of Dog Show. Awards for: Most

Residents with questions may also contact the Virginia Cooperative Extension Service in Stanley at 540-7785794.

Daughter of the Stars

Farmer’s Market will be open from 10a.m. to 2p.m. at Big Gem Park 736 Fourth Street, Shenandoah, VA 22849 on the first Saturdays of the month from May to November which include: May 6, June 3, July 1, August 5, September 2, October 7 and November 4.

Stars Farmer’s Market

Daughter of the Stars Farmer’s Market will be open from 10a.m. to 2p.m. at the Luray-Page County Chamber of Commerce 18 Campbell Street, Luray, VA 22835 on the third Saturdays of the month from May to November which include: May 20, June 17 , July 15, August 19, September 16, October 21, and November 18.

If you would like to be a vendor e-mail

what you would have done?

If you are someone who does not have a family member to take care of the things that have to be done, discuss it with a friend. Or as I suggested above, write down what you want and give the paper to a friend. Then it’s done. Take it off your list. Do you have insurance?

Let someone know where the policies are.

Do you have cemetery lots? If you don’t, now would be the time to think

quired to attend.

Featured Businesses Birdsong Pleasure Garden, 196 Longs Road, Luray, is a local garden that visitors can tour. Owned by two former teachers, they reworked their entire property to model the pleasure gardens in England. They offer tours, as well as helping with environmental efforts. You can check them out at http://

Patriotic, Best Look Alike, Best Trick, and Best in Show. For more information call Diane Shifflett 540-478-2857.

Yard and Bake Sale

Shenandoah Pentecostal Holiness Church (300 Shenandoah Avenue, Shenandoah, VA 22849)

8 a.m. — 1 p.m.

Car/Truck/Tractor

Show KVK 500 Quincy Avenue, Shenandoah, VA 22849 check out the classic cars, trucks, and tractors

9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Motorcycle Cruz-in First Street All years, makes and models welcome. 10a.m. – 3p.m. For more information, please call Brenda Haggett 540742-4081 or e-mail Brenda efgva@yahoo.com

Memorial Walk VFW, Post 8613 Avis O. Comer (1103 Varina Avenue, Shenandoah, VA 22849).

10 a.m. Come and take a solemn walk to remember the 25 soldiers who have been honored at the town’s past Memorial Festivals.

Memorial Service

Shenandoah VFW, Post 8613 Avis O. Comer (1103 Varina Avenue, Shenandoah, VA 22849) 10:15 a.m.

– 11 a.m. Every year Mayor Clinton Lucas, Jr. honors Virginia soldiers who passed away while on active duty at a ceremony as a part of the Town’s Annual Memorial Festival.

ages. All volunteers are certified by the I S. This year, TaxAide volunteers will be helping taxpayers prepare their taxes at the Luray Church of the Brethren, 11 Berrey Blvd., Luray. To make an appointment, call 540-2129460. Taxpayers must bring ID and Social Security cards for every member of their family, as well as all tax information and forms for 2022. If schools are closed because of inclement weather, TaxAide services will also be closed.

Cruz-In Fridays

The Town of Shenandoah has planned its 2023 schedule for Cruz-In Fridays on First Street. Sponsored by the Shenandoah Heritage Center, Cruz-Ins are planned from 6-9p.m. as follows: May 26, part of the Memorial Festival; June 9 (rain date June 16); July 7 (rain date July 14); Aug. 4 (rain date Aug 11); and Sept. 15 (rain date Sept. 22). All makes, models and years are welcome; no registration fee required. The evening also includes door prizes and a 50/50 drawing. For more in-

about it. Call the cemetery and ask about the prices. In the larger memorial parks, you can buy the lots, vaults, markers and openings and closings on the installment plan. But a word of caution, they are expensive. Even at today’s prices but if you wait, the cost will be even more. The local cemeteries and church cemeteries usually have lots available. Call them and ask about their lots and what is included

www.birdsongpleasuregarden.info, birdsongpleasuregarden@gmail.com, or 540-743-9389.

Heartfelt Events of Luray, is a local event planning and catering business. They work with weddings and other events to make sure your big day goes off as smoothly as possibly. They also offer catering options, hospitality baskets, and more. You can learn more about all the services they offer by visiting https://heartfeltevents.net/, emailing jackie@heartfeltevents.net, or calling 540-333-9422.

Book Sale Shenandoah Community Library (418 S. Third Street, Shenandoah, VA 22849) 10a.m. – 2 p.m.

Children’s Parade

Shenandoah Landing & River Park (315 Morrison Road, Shenandoah, VA 22849). 1p.m. Children will take to the walking track decked out in their most patriotic finery. They may also decorate their bikes, wagons, or strollers.

Sponsored by the Daughters of the American Revolution Shenandoah River Chapter Parade come and join us for an old-fashioned parade 4p.m. – 5p.m. Portions of Route 340, Maryland Avenue, First Street, and Virginia Avenue will be blocked off for this event. To register your float or group in the parade, please call Brenda Haggett 540742-4081 or e-mail Brenda efgva@yahoo.com. Vendor/ Craft Show/Yard Sale/Food Vendors } are needed at the Shenandoah Machine Shop parking lot located at 323 Pulaski Avenue. $10.00 for a 10x20 space and $35 for food vendors. For more information call Brenda Haggett 540-742-4081 or Bobbi Jo Good 540-8106113 8:00a.m.- 2:00 p.m. For free publication of community event notifications, send information to community@pagenewspaper.com.

formation, contact 540-7421141.

Food drive

Thanks to the success of the Page Public Library’s food drive for Luray’s Page One, the collection drive will continue. The collection box for non-perishable food items will be available at the library at 100 Zerkel Street in Luray. Any donation would be greatly appreciated.

Members needed

The Twirling Medallions has opened its group to new members. For those interested in joining, practices are held from 6–7 p.m. on Wednesdays at the Elkton Middle School gym. The group is in need of twirlers, color guard members and drummers for the new year. Formed in 1970, the Twirling Medallions attend local parades and perform at numerous community events throughout the year. For more information, call Tina Hughes at 540-578-0511 or Melissa Stum at 540-8201930.

in the price. You might also ask them if they have a payment plan. However you do it, today’s prices will be a lot lower than ten or twenty years from now.

You may think you have insurance to take care of all of the things that need to be done. How much insurance do you have? Are you sure it’s enough?

It looks like the cemetery with it’s opening and closings, vaults and markers is a lot on money. You could look

into cremation. Call the local funeral home and get the all the facts about cremation. Ask them if you could pay for it now and any other information they have.

I’m sure this is not something you want to think about. Me neither, but I want you to have it taken care of, and then we’ll forget it and go with some things I have planned that are more enjoyable to read about.

Till next time. Have a wonderful week.

VFW donates $1,000 to library

Card Showers

“Thinking of you” greetings can be sent to veterans residing at local nursing homes. The list includes:

• At Skyview Springs (formerly MontVue), 30 MontVue Dr., Luray, Va. 22835 are: Howard Be -

Art in the Community

Gallery Information Arts & Artisans Fine Art Gallery, 4 East Main Street, Luray, Va. 22835

Currently open Friday, Saturday and Sunday 12-5 p.m., or by chance or for an appointment, call 540-578-4756.

Operated by the Page Valley Arts Council, a 501 C3 non-profit, graciously accepting donations.

Warehouse Art Gallery, 3054 US Hwy 21 West, Luray 22835, lurayart@gmail.com, 540-

ahm, Army; and Roger Stead, Marines.

• At Hawksbill Assisted Living, 122 N. Hawksbill St., Luray are: David Honeycutt, Army; Garland Meadows, Navy; and Donna Rogers, Army. Birthday, anniversary and get-well card showers are published free of charge in the Page News and Courier. Submissions should be sent by e-mail community@pagenewspaper.com.

742-3620. Opening in May.

Artwork at the Artisans

Great selection of paintings by Wes & Eileen Porter, Jean Moyer, Gary Saylor, C erner five other regional, & national artists. Beautiful pottery by artists Jim Lieb, Reese Miller, & Cathie Miranda, sculptures by Lis Sabol & Victoria Britto, linocut/prints by Charmaine Shaw. Wonderful selection of clothing by Charleen Johnston & jewelry by Susan Latta & Susan Rocke. Very nice selection and price range of artwork throughout the Gallery.

Contributed photo

Quartermaster David Lucas of Shenandoah VFW 8613 and Shenandoah Community Librarian Ruth Reid stand together following a $1,000 donation from Shenandoah VFW to the Community Library.

Proactive policing on display in Luray

By PAUL SEBASTIAN Page News and Courier Columnist

What if you were told your small, rural town, nowhere close to an interstate or large city, had one of the highest numbers of drug arrests in the area? Your gut reaction might be that your town has a big drug problem, but really, you should feel even safer. This means your police department is doing its job and proactively policing the community.

If you look at some crime stats, it will seem at first glance like Luray has a big drug problem. Anyone can look up the stats for any police department in Virginia online through the Virginia State Police’s website.

In 2021 —the most recent year available — Luray Police Department made 69 drug or narcotic arrests. This seems like a lot for a jurisdiction of about 4,800 people. Let’s compare that arrest number to some other jurisdictions in the area to get a better idea just how high that number is.

Despite patrolling a city about three times the size of Luray and being at a major crossroads between I-81 and

Widow FROM PAGE A1

“I don’t think that that kind of force is ever necessary, you know, the man was unarmed; the worst that he had was his car keys in his hand and, as hectic as it was, there were so many people yelling,” Linda Ennis said, citing the video of the confrontation. “There were confl icting demands made by the police, you know, one is telling him get out of the car, one is telling him stay in the car. They have a police dog there that is just barking like crazy and they’re

I-66, Front Royal Police Department had only 40 drug arrests. Shenandoah County Sheriff’s Office, patrolling an area with almost six times as many people as Luray, had only 32.

Surely, I thought, the Harrisonburg Police Department would break 100 drug arrests and probably double Luray’s number, since Harrisonburg has a population 11 times as much as Luray, not to mention the presence of James Madison University. Lo and behold, however, HPD only made 82 drug arrests in 2021.

I recently had the chance to sit down with LPD Chief Bow Cook, and he explained to me why there is more to the story than the numbers might suggest.

He told me that his department’s high drug arrest number is not because there are more drugs in Luray or Page County compared to the other jurisdictions listed above. Instead, it was because he pushes his offi cers to be proactive. Despite what you might think, however, these drug arrests are not the result of undercover stings — what the police refer to as “controlled buys.”

Controlled buys, Chief

holding him back. That would have scared anyone.”

The Virginia State Police investigated the incident at the request of the Warren County Sheriff’s Office. The agency presented its investigation to Warren County Commonwealth’s Attorney John Bell, who reviewed the initial findings. Bell requested that the Prince illiam County Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney take over the investigation as special prosecutor to determine whether or not to pursue any criminal charges in the case.

Cook explains, are not cost-effective and stretch the manpower of his small department too thin. Instead, his officers are proactive the old-fashioned way — conducting traffic stops, and lots of them. is sworn officers av erage in total about traffic tickets a month — contrary to popular belief, Chief Cook told me, there are no mandatory ticket quotas on LPD.

“The great majority of these drug arrests are the result of traffic stops, Chief Cook explained. “And I’m not talking about speed traps on . Our officers are out in the community, actively patrolling the streets of Luray, and if they pull you over, it’s because your infraction was obvious and egregious.”

Traffic stops are also an important means of investigation for a patrol officer in LPD.

“In rural Virginia,” Chief Cook said, “drug dealing is a very personal business. Dealers and buyers usually have known each other for years, and the transactions are completed in homes or other areas inaccessible to our officers without the proper warrants.”

Prince William County Commonwealth’s Attorney Amy Ashworth said by phone Friday that she would not comment on her office’s active investigation in the case. Ashworth said she does expect to conclude her investigation soon.

A committee formed in Warren County shortly after Ralph Ennis’ death conducted an internal investigation into the Sheriff’s Office’s handling of the traffic stop. The committee, made up of members of other law enforcement agencies and the public,

Proactive traffic stops, then, are the primary way LPD’s officers investigate suspicious activity and confront potential dealers and buyers.

LPD also has one of its narcotics investigators assigned to the Northwest Virginia Regional Drug Task Force, which is another source of drug arrests for the department. But Chief Cook admits that even with such proactive officers, drug abuse and possession are not issues the police of Page County can tackle on their own. Arrests alone will not stop the drug epidemic. Instead, says Chief Cook, policing must be partnered with personalized care, treatment, and follow-up by churches, family and friends, social services, and other nonprofits in the community.

Chief Cook has partnered up with nonprofits as well as the schools to create a plan to help combat many issues facing Page County and its citizens. But I’m already running out of room in this week’s column, so you will have to check back in the future to learn more about Chief Cook’s plans and initiatives.

concluded its investigation late last year, Sheriff Mark Butler said in January. Butler said then that he could not comment on the committee’s findings given the special prosecutor’s ongoing investigation into his office’s handling of the traffic stop.

During a phone interview this week, Butler reiterated his support for the officers and how his agency handled the matter after the incident.

“Unfortunately, you know, something like this — it’s a tragic event any time this stuff happens,” Butler

Luray-Page County Chamber of Commerce Regina Hilliard, Membership Development & Engagement Clancey Arnold, Mayor of Luray Jerry Dofflemyer, Luray Downtwon Initiative President Paula Kibler, Chamber Board Member and Ambassador Sable Ponn, Holtzman Oil Corp. founder Bill Hotlzman, staff from the Commissioner of the Revenue, and members of the community.

said. “But, you know, like I told someone before, I wasn’t elected to ensure nothing bad ever happened. If that was the case, our guys wouldn’t ... wear bulletproof vests and carry guns.

“I was hired and elected to handle it within the standards of the state and everywhere else when they do happen and I’m very confi dent on how we as an agency handled the situation,” Butler said.

Butler said he also awaits the special prosecutor’s determination.

“I can’t force an investi-

Daisy’s Country Cravings Market & Deli is located at 822 East Main Street, Luray. Their hours are Monday-Friday from 5:00 am-9:00 pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 7 a.m. – 9 p.m. For more information on their services, you can visit their website, call 540-6695965, or email them at daisypainter@ymail.com. For more details on the ribbon-cutting, contact the Luray-Page County Chamber of Commerce at events@luraypage.com.

gation,” Butler said. “We did ours, and we’re waiting on them.”

Ian Ennis claims in his lawsuit that Warren County deputies Zachary Fadley and Tyler Poe used excessive force against Ralph Ennis and violated his father’s Fourth Amendment right against unreasonable search and seizure. Attorneys for the defendants have since filed responses to the complaint and deny any of the claims of wrongdoing.

– Contact Alex Bridges at abridges@nvdaily.com

Daisy Jones, owner of Daisy’s Country Cravings Market & Deli, opened her doors on January 9.

Creative arts festival remembers beloved teacher

From PNC Staff Reports

VIRGINIA BEACH — Chesapeake Bay Academy will host the inaugural Melinda Vooss Creative Arts Festival on May 18 from 2:30 – 4 pm.

Melinda Vooss, the upper school art teacher at CBA, lost her battle with cancer in October 2022.

To honor her legacy, the Vooss family has established the Melinda M. Vooss Artfully Yours Memorial Fund to support and promote the power of art in education.

Melinda joined the CBA community in 2020 during the pandemic and worked tirelessly to build relationships with her students while supporting them in their creative endeavors. She worked with students both virtually and in her classroom on campus. While only serving at CBA for a short time before being diagnosed, Vooss’ dedication to her students and her colleagues were deep-rooted within the community. She is remembered for her bright smile and personality, and the warmth that radiated from within.

“Melinda’s personality was infectious, as was her perseverance. She was an authentic human being who managed her struggles with dignity and grace. Melinda was a model for our students as they approached their own academic challenges, and they embraced her,” remarked Dr. Judy Jankowski, CBA head of school.

While the annual student art show has been a CBA tradition for many years, the show will take on a new look this year by incorporating musical performances, poetry readings and maker creations,in addition to the visual arts. All of the pieces are crafted and performed by the school’s talented student artists

and faculty members and feature a variety of different mediums.

This year’s show will begin with a message from head of school Jankowski and Scott Vooss, Melinda’s husband. Upper school literature teacher and award-winning poet, author and recording artist Synnika Lofton will share a piece in her memory,and the student choir will perform.

Friends of CBA and the Vooss family are invited,and the event is open to the community.Scott, and their children Zoey and Maxwell

are creators of the fund and have been instrumental in the expansion of the event as a portion of the memorial fund will support the festival each year moving forward.

“Melinda had a true passion for teaching and took such joy in helping students become inquisitive, confident, and expressive artists.She found her place at CBA and was deeply committed to her work. I am honored to help advance her ideals and continue supporting the community and students that had such a pro-

found impact on Melinda’s life,” shared Scott.

The mission of the fund is to honor Melinda’s legacy by supporting people and programs that awaken and inspire our inner artist and use the joy and power of art education as a platform to encourage curiosity, promote pride, spread positivity and build community.

Chesapeake Bay Academy has been empowering students who learn differently for over 30 years.

As the only independent school in Southeastern Virginia dedicated

specifically to serving students grades 1-12 with unique learning needs, CBA specializes in educating children with ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia and other learning differences.

With a focus on hands-on and project-basedlearning, CBA is committed to empowering students with the skills and confidence necessary for success in higher education, careers and life.For more information about Chesapeake Bay Academy,please visit www.cba-va. orgor call 757-497-6200.

Senior Farmers’ Market nutrition program seeks more farmers

From PNC Staff Reports

RICHMOND — The Virginia Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, known as Farm Market

Fresh, recently expanded its program into new regions and seeks more local farmers to participate. Farm Market Fresh supports local farmers who grow their own

fruits, vegetables or fresh-cut herbs and promotes the use of farmers markets across Virginia.

Local Area Agencies on Aging distribute Farm Market Fresh

checks to qualified seniors and participating farmers collect and cash them in exchange for eligible produce at the market. Income eligibility changed in 2023, with the poten-

tial to reach 70,000 more seniors.

To learn more about this program, or to become an authorized Farm Market Fresh farmer/vendor, apply here: FarmMarketFresh.org.

* Pixar required its entire staff to take a graduate-level ichthyology (the branch of zoology that studies fish) class to help improve the authenticity of “Finding Nemo.”

* Television inventor Philo Farnsworth got the idea for how the medium would work when he was just 14 -- and while plowing potatoes. He built the first working prototype seven years later, but died at 64 in relative obscurity due to a series of legal battles.

* A 20-year-old gallon of McDonald’s McJordan BBQ Sauce sold for $10,000 simply because it had Michael Jordan’s name on it.

* A lobster’s brain is located in its throat, its nervous system in its abdomen, its teeth in its stomach, and its kidneys in its head! It also hears using its legs, tastes with its feet, and tends to favor one front limb, meaning it can be right-clawed or left-clawed.

* After the Comstock Laws banned birth control in 1873, the makers of Trojan condoms found a way around that restriction by selling the prophylactics as a protection against STDs.

* Queen is the only band in which each member individually wrote more than one No. 1 hit.

* In North Korea, anyone who cuts down trees or starts a forest fire in protected areas could face the death penalty.

* When Joseph Stalin’s first wife died, he said: “This creature softened my heart of stone. She died, and with her died my last warm feelings for humanity.” He would go on to execute her brother, her sister and her cousin.

* No one actually “won” the war of 1812.

* Chicago was raised over 4 feet with screw jacks in the 19th century in order to install the U.S.’s first sewer system. *** Thought for the Day: “It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation.”

-- Herman Melville

1. Is the book of Simon (KJV) in the Old or New Testament or neither?

2. In a fit of anger, what did King Saul throw trying to kill David? Spear, Vase, Shield, Ax

3. From Exodus 1, what were the people of Israel forced to make? Blankets, Boats, Baskets, Bricks

4. Who was the deceptive future father-in-law of Jacob? Masa, Laban, Jehoram, Rehu

5. What did Shamgar use to kill six hundred Philistines? Sword, Stones, Mina, Ox goad

6. How many deacons were chosen to help the apostles? 4, 7, 11, 15

ANSWERS: 1) Neither, 2) Spear, 3) Bricks, 4) Laban, 5) Ox goad (Judges 3:31), 6) 7

The 2022-23 high school third quarter honor roll lists are as follows:

Luray High School

4.00 and Above

Joslyn Alger, Bailey Ancell, Hannah Atwood, Benjamin Baughan, Elena Brown, Victoria Brown, Katherine Brubaker, Kinsley Burker, Eli Campbell, Jordan Cash, Benjamin Caudill, Claudia Cave, Paul Comer IV, Caitlin Couper, Blake Dean, Raegan Dean, Cameron Dodson, Emily Donovan, Isabella Drain, Brigid Dudley, Reese Fitton, Maggie Foltz, Summer Forder, Bianca Good, Lauren Good, William Graybeal, Haiven Harrison, Christian Hart, Mahika Hasmukh, Alexander Heglar, Jeffrey Hite II, Conner Janney, Braden Jenkins, Lillian Jenkins, Avery Jewell, David Johnson, Evie King, Austin Lam, Lexus Loper, Madeline Martin, Michaela Mason, Jaidyn McClung, Clark Molina, Amber Moore, Mariah Moore, Gracie Olson, Savannah Owens, Ronan Painter, Lydia Parlett, Nevaeh Presgraves, Emma Price, Logan Rickard, Devin Rothgeb, Drew Sharum, Victoria Shoop, Alyson Shores, Brandon Shores, Dylan Smith, Katherin Smith, Breannah Soden, Lauren Sours, Meghan

The 2022-23 middle school third quarter honor roll lists are as follows:

Luray

Middle School

A Honor Roll

6th Grade

Kendall Alger, Eleanor Arrington, Savannah Atwood, Alexis Bowman, Chloe Catron, Cooper Donovan, Myla Gilmer, Grayson

Hinegardner, Alexia Jenkins, Aubrey Knott, Easton Myers, Jaidyn Parlett, Levi Strickler

7th Grade

Madelyn Alger, Emily Benson, MaKenna Breeden, Caroline Donovan, Lilyann Fulk, Chester Jeffries, Summer Pence, William Plum, Lakin Vile, Leah Weaver

8th Grade

Caleb Atwood, Braylon Brooks, Ainsley Couper, Morgan Good, Cayden Haddock, Paisley Huffman, Maya Jenkins, Ryan Jenkins, Nevaeh Knott

The 2022-23 elementary school third quarter honor roll lists are as follows:

Stanley Elementary School

3rd Grade

Reagan Alday, Harper Bat-

Sours, Benton Stoneberger, Rebecca Switzer, Katelyn Taglauer, Addison Thomas, Eliza Thomas, Marykate Thomas, Landon Vile, Alyssa Weaver, Laurel Webb, Sylvia Webb, Annah Whitmer, Hannah Whitmer, Ahdayis Whittaker, Sophia Williams, Emma Wilson, Owen Windle

3.80 Honor Roll Bryce Bailey, Riley Benson, Bradley George, Alexis Knott, Nala Lawson, Luke Martin, Matthew Owens, Lauren Pence, Zachary etefish, Briana lum, layna Roy

3.60 Honor Roll Lillian Alger, Eli Aycock, Idella Black, Vincent Black, Lindsay Bly, Nicholas Cubbage, Ava Davis, Hannah Davis, Pagie Fake, Cade Foltz, Amiya Gardner Harris, Amandra Green, Connor Irvin, Hunter Kibler, Jack Martin, Heaven Mathews, Jillian Parlett, Leianna Seal, Lillian Seal, Christian Siegler, Alexis Strassner, Alyssa Tiller, Blake Turner

3.40 Honor Roll

Dakota Alger, Chance Beahm, Addison Blosser, Jackson Bowman, Cason Bryant, Destinee Johnson, Natalie Weakley, Aubry Wilson, Carolina Wood

3.20 Honor Roll

Katherine Alger, Michael Buracker, Aubreigh Campbell, Ne -

A/B Honor Roll

6th Grade

vaeh Cave, James Farrow, James riffith II, Selena uevara ortillo, Blake Jenkins, Makayla Keeley, Kiara Lawson, Noah Lawson, Michael Morabito, Ella Parlett, Dylan Rickard, Brad Rogers, Avery Secrist, Alyssa Soden, Jamie Sponsler, Drayvin Stevens, Caleb Supthin, Mckenna Talghadar, Jacob Wood

3.00 Honor Roll

Anthony Brown, Darrius Carter, Alexa Davis, Jadyn Dovel, Logan Fox, Alie Hoke, Isabella Jennings, Mackenzie Knight, Hunter Presgraves, Parker Price, Phoenix Rossi, Christina Seal, Marissa Sours, Jada Tumblin

Page County High School

4.00 and Above

Cari Aleshire, Emma Babb, Gavin Barlow, Emerson Baugher, Dalton Bowling, Gracie Breeden, Jesse Breeden, Victoriann Buracker, Jackson Burns, Landry Burns, Ace Campbell, Jack Campbell, Jazmine Campbell, Maryn Cave, Sean Cave, Logan Couch, Calob Cowgill, Kevin Cowgill, Matthew Curtis, Hailey Dallas, Leah Dallas, Emma Dean, Steviane Ellinger, Addison Eppard, Isa Eppard, Ashley Fansler, Isaac Fitzwater, Montana Foltz, Leigha Foster, Drew Fridley, Lucas Fry-

myer, Bailee Gaskins, Natalee Gillian, Lukas Good, Tressa Good, Elzer Hall, Danika Hammer, Aaron Hensley, Hailey Housden, Rylan

Housden, Kyle Hutchinson, Ashlee Jenkins, McKenzie Jewell, Brooke Johnson, Jaylen Johnson, Kale Jones, Ava Keyser, Asher Kite, Summer Kite, Taite Kite, Aliyah Knight, Joshua Knott Jr, Wade McAnulty, Brayden McKay, Jenna McKay, Joseph Miller, Whitney Miner, Kaylee Mines, Angelene Morris, Jonas Morton, Darin Osborne, Makenna Parlett, Bree Pavco, Allison Pettit, Jonah

Purdham, Alia Rhinehart, Dawson Richards, Samantha Rinaca, Mya Riner, Arianna Roudabush, Rebekah Seals, Timmothey Sellers, Sierra Spain, Savannah

Stanley, Jaylin Staples, Gunnar

Strickler, SaCelia Sweezy, Bianca

Taylor, George Thomas III, Hannah Thomas, Brianna Thompson, Brynne Tilstra, Madison

Turpen, Mariah Turpen, Garrett

Vaughan, Dixon Weber, Julia Williams, aden ingfield, Chance

Wolfe, Addyson Wyant, Bradley

Zimmerman

3.80 Honor Roll

Riley Anders, Tyler Bennett, Bethany Lucas, Kyle Nicholson, Landyn Painter, Savannah Pence, Ryan Seal

3.60 Honor Roll

MIDDLE SCHOOL HONOR ROLLS

Leah Atwood, Angel Ausberry, Holden Bowman, Isabella Campbell, Carleigh ood, Cade riffith, Gavin Irvin, Kynnly Lucas, MaKenzie McDaniel, MaKenna Owen, Jack Packard, Riley Pettit, Michah

Presgraves, Jayden Vaughn

7th Grade Lewis Brown, Annjeanette

Crider, Wyatt Cubbage, Casey

Eakin, Sierra Forder, Dylan Goddard, Emma Gray, Emilee Hassett, Tiffany Knott, Maddox Moyer

8th Grade

Preslee Alger, Ethan Atwood, Tatum Barnes, Joseph Bowman, Emma Butler, Destiny Carter, Aiden Cook, Logan Gaunt, Blake

George, Chloe Gochenour, Landon

Good, Aaron Grieve, Ayden Haddock, Isaiah Hill, Bailey Judd, Kaden Kibler, Kristina McLain, Qamryn McNeal, Brandon Painter, Austin Presgraves, Pierce Rothgeb, Ryleigh Seal, Emilee Tedder, Cody

man, Cora Bosley, Makenna Buracker, Ian Cave, Tanner Couch, Carly Cubbage, Milania Delgado, Benjamin Foltz, Macey Freed, Olivia Frymyer, Rileigh Good, Irene Goode, Emilea Henry, Lavahya Hilliard, Christopher Housden, Weston Knight, Addison Lackner, Harper Mayes, Freyja Pierce, Kinsley Riner, Liam Riner, Arabella Stover, Kerri Sullivan, Aubree Young

4th Grade

Aryana Andrade, Kighleah Bailey, Bryan Donelson, Madison Fincham, Anneliese Good, Abel Lohr, Atticus Longanecker, Isla Louderback, Mila Louderback, Lauren Lucas, Natalie Miller, Natalie Miner, Emmett Montana, Zackory Morris, Gracie Moyer, Liam Pavco, Madison Randall, Avery Sellers, Logan Stanley, Jordyn Strock, Timothy Wright

5th Grade

Dean Barbee, Corbin Bat-

Vasilas, Koralynn Whiteside, Tristian Wilson, Eli Wood, Emma Wood

Page County Middle School

A Honor Roll

Maci Campbell, Hudson Cave, Ryleigh Knight, Brenna McKay, Logan Merica, Connor Miller, Collin Murphy, Elizabeth Seals, Blake Smith, Gavin Stobbs, Katie Sullivan, Elizabeth Wood

7th Grade

Brianna Atkinson, Brayden Bosley, Abigail Brewer, Michael Fincham, Kiersten Foster, Atari Good, Abrianna Greer, Chase Harlow, Latiera Hilliard, Saphira Hoover, Hannah Knight, Sophia McClellan, Tatum Pendergast, Logan Richards, Reed Richards, Elisha Spain, Saphira Viands, Trinity Wheeler

8th Grade

Addy Atkins, Lindsay Babb, August Beatty, Katharine Campbell-Schneider, Adison Caton,

Kaylee Cubbage, Trenton Cubbage, Logan Curtis, Elizabeth

DePriest, Gracie Good, Brooklyn

Lam, Thomas Louderback, Ava

Marshall, Rylan Martin, Kayla

Pence, Braxton Pettit, Chloe Price, Danielle Rickard, Danica Turner, Karina Valencia, Veronica Yorro

A/B Honor Roll

6th Grade Alliey Bosley, Axl Buracker, Jacob Comer, Janely Coronel-Cardoso, Dylan Couch, Audrey Cubbage, Caleb Cubbage, Landan

Dean, Trista Dovel, Miles Frazier, Kaylee Holbert, Serenity Hoover, Peyton Lam, Riley McCoy, Bentley McKay, Mason Meadows, Isaac Morton, Hayden Muska, Selah Neer, Ethyn Painter, Julian Painter, Noah Pence, Zoey Phillippi, Sierra Ramirez, Isabella Richards, Kylie Riner, Kiley Rodriguez, Tessa Smith, Madalynn Strock, Canaan Taylor, Adrienne

Terry, Brynlee Wolfe

7th Grade

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL HONOR ROLLS

man, Jadeyn Blosser, Thaddaus Cloude, Berklee Comer, Ruthanne Cooper, Harmony Donelson, Hunter Foltz, Delaney George, Kahli Hawkins, John Knight, Gabriella Pierce, Ava Rhinehart, Kaylee Shamblin, Brantley Showalter, Rylee Supples, Braylyn Taylor, Preston Wood, Lauren Wright

Springfield

Elementary School

3rd Grade Colton Foster, Sadie Jenkins, Amanda Jennings, Brycen Painter, Aydin Shreve, Jamilynn Tutt

4th Grade

Elijah Alger, Peyton Dunbar, Noah Foltz, Addison Foster, Marleigh Gilliss, Aaron Hebert, Evelyn Hinegardner, Adelaide Janney, Bailey Kemp, Jacoby Moyer, Peyton Rutt, Camilla Seal, Austin Strickler, Wyatt Vile, Shyannah Whitmer

5th Grade Paisley Arstino, Noah Daley, Carmen Judd, Madison Knott, Jackson Mason, Andrew Petefish, Alyssa Sedwick, Chloe Vasilas, Dane Wilson, Ethan Wilson, Carter Wood

Luray

Elementary School

3rd Grade Kennedy Burker, Caleb Carney, Madelynn Carvell, James Catron, Kaiya Devine Wayland, Calypso Dodson, Lelia Foltz, Sayde Gray, Saraphina reen, Cara riffith, llie Kite, Matthew Moreland, Levi Morrison, Luke Olson, Gracelynn St.Clair

4th Grade Cayleigh Ambrose, Alleen Atwood, Reighlyn Clatterbuck, Nicoli Cook, Chloe Cyphert, Jasper Davis, Jeminigh Dodson, Serenity Downey, Kaleah Geisler, Ryker Gibbs,

Sarah Belcher, Caden Combs, Manuel Coronel Cardoso, Ava Dunlap, Logan Heiston, Lauren Hensley, Mallory Hensley, Cayden High, Taylor Jenkins, Kaden Jones, Ian Long, Summer Long, Elliott Montana, Breanna Osborne, Madison Phares, Elizabeth Ramos, William Ramos, Aidan Rinaca, Raegan Rodriguez, Tyler Shifflett, Collin Stoneberger, Joshua Talley, Breona Taylor, Baylee Williams, Jaiden Williams, Laci Wright

3.40 Honor Roll Brynlee Comer, Kaylee Good, Madyson Murphy, John Ortiz-Spangler, Emma Painter, Ryan Phillippi, Mary-Isabel Ruffner, James Stout, David Stroupe

3.20 Honor Roll

Brett Campbell, Tristan Elfer, Caleab Foltz, Isaac Foltz, Karma Guinn, Teigan Heatwole, Luke Hilliard, Kalie Marshall, Jade Mullins, Ayden Rickard, Kenseth Tharp, Alvaro Torres, Riley Turner, Tanner Weaver, Brandon Wright

3.00 Honor Roll

Karleigh Austin, Micah Breeden, Nathaniel Brewer, Taryn Eppard, Trenton Eppard, Jordan Foster, Jordan Hedrick-Sapanca, Jacob Martz, Alexis Meadows, Jacob Meadows, Buddy Morton, Emma Rinaca, Emma Shifflett, Sydney Southers

Aaleyah Andrade, Ryan Barb, Peyton Bradley, Evan Campbell, Landon Campbell, Maleah Clinedinst, Angel Crider, Issac Davis, Jaxon Dean, Beckett Eppard, Cael Fitzwater, Kaelyn Hansbrough, Chans Harlow, Delana Henderson, Gavin Henry, Gabriella Hensley, Cameron Knight, Blayne Knighton, Calvin Lawson, Caelyn Lucas, Carter McCarty, Jackson McInturff, Kristen Miller, Joshua Morris Jr., Chandler Painter, Jackson Smith, Logan Sours, Lexi Swisher, Kaiden Wood

8th Grade Grant Baugher, Sophia Buracker, Trinity Campbell, Addison Good, Averie Green, Brianna Hinegardner, Nathaniel Holloway, McKenna Houck, Chloe Kibler, Anthony McCoy Jr., Autumn Miller, Evan Montana, Ashlee Morris, Avrey Orman, Luke Pence, Brooklyn Richards, Brooke Seal, Bella Shifflett, Myles Showalter, Rachel Stout, Jayden Taylor, Thomas Yarwood

Amiah Graney, Alyssa Griffith, Bryce Haddock, Maxwell Jenkins, Levi Knoll, Lydia Moyer, Cormac Painter, Gavin Price, Brantlee Snyder, Amelia Windle, Camden Wood

5th Grade

Rachel Brubaker, Scarlett Dodson, Jayce Feathers, eath ood, ason riffith, Kiersten Hutcherson, Lorraina Jeffries, Alaina Kadar, Mason Keeler, Macy Keyser, Hayden Lam, Parker Molina, Abigail Price, Logan Rickard, Giulliana Rotava

Shenandoah Elementary School

3rd Grade

Gage Breeden, Camden Caton, Parker Conley, Parker Cubbage, Emma Dodson, Zander Gray, Lainey Herring, George Johnson III, Gavin Kopp, Brystal Lam, Paisley Lam, Chanler Mar-

tin, Kayleigh McCarty, Scarlett McCloud, Lydia Muska, Christopher Pharo, Maggi Shifflett, Mason Shifflett, Natalie Sullins, Reagan Weaver, Cally, Ann Wyant

4th Grade

Daniela Coronel-Cardoso, Trinity Craun, Aubrey Dean, Reagan Dearing, Slaye Fahrney, Addyson Glenn, Joshalyn Hargrave, Kinsley Housden, Dylan King, Addisyn Knighton, Bradley Lee, Brock Pfeiffer, Camron Presgraves, Gaige Roach, Lillie Scarbrough, Titus Sublett, Abigail Taylor, Aaron Thomas, Bristol Turner, Raegan Turner, Destiny Wheeler 5th Grade

Lucas Green, Domenik Hebermehl, Layah Heiston, Peyton Kyger, Ayden Lam, Dawson Meadows, Olivia Price, Alexis Rucker, Avery Shifflett, ustin Staples, Penny Vought, Gaige Watson, Jacoby Wood, Weston Young

Lightning strike sets fire to barn

By ALEX BRIDGES

For the Page News and Courier

Canines being enlisted to sniff out spotted lanternfly eggs

By CORMAC DODD

For The Page News and Courier

Researchers are calling on dogs and their owners to help slow the spread of the destructive spotted lanternfly a bright winged planthopper that’s one of the more prominent invasive insects in the Mid-Atlantic.

With no native predators, the spotted lanternfly is estimated to cause $40 billion in agriculture and forestry damage nationwide annually.

At Virginia Tech’s Alson H. Smith Jr. Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Frederick County, researchers hope man’s best friend can play a role in stopping the destruction.

Canines are being trained to sniff out spotted lanternfly eggs. The pro ect, unofficially dubbed the Canine Citizen Science Study, is being funded by a fouryear, $475,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The dog sniffing detectives could become a valuable tool for growers by helping them identify early egg clusters and destroy them. The effort began two years ago in an olfactory lab at Texas Tech and has since expanded to the East Coast.

Researchers at Virginia Tech and Texas Tech are working together on the project. They also hope to train dogs to sniff out powdery mildew, a fungal disease that’s deadly to plants.

“At the completion of the study, we hope to have a strong network of handlers able to locate spotted lanternfly egg masses as a proof-of-concept program, with the intent to create an enduring citizen-based detection program for this and other invasive species,” Sally Dickinson, a doctoral candidate in Virginia Tech’s School of Animal Sciences, said in a media release. “Put your training skills to work and help protect our vineyards, fruit orchards and flower gardens.

Native to China, spotted lanternfly feed on more than 70 plant species and suck sap and nutrients. Clusters of the pests which do not sting or pose health risks for humans are particularly drawn to grape vines due to their sugary fruit. They first arrived in the area in 2018.

Among those working on the effort is Mizuho Nita, a Virginia Cooperative Extension specialist and associate professor in Virginia Tech’s School for Plant and Environmental Sciences. He operates a grape disease management research station at the research center near inchester. e knows firsthand how the spotted lanternfly can beleaguer fruit crops.

“Naturally, my fear is the risk to the quality of the grapes and the wines they produce,” Nita said in a press release from Virginia Tech. “I worry that growers will be overusing insecticides. While they have proved effective in

killing the spotted lanternfly, they also cause harm to beneficial insects therefore, it may bring other issues to our crops.”

Early detection is crucial to halting the expansion of the spotted lanternfly farther south, Nita said. The insect often travels long distances by hitchhiking on vehicles and other human-assisted movement.

Erica Feuerbacher, an associate professor of applied animal welfare and behavior at Virginia Tech, is recruiting a team of dogs and their owners through a partnership with the National Association of Canine Scent Work.

Feuerbacher and Nita are asking dog owners to unite and utilize their pets’ skills in scent to identify spotted lanternfly eggs soon after they are laid.

“This is a great opportunity for people to have fun with their dogs while also contributing back to their communities in a meaningful way,” Feuerbacher said in the release.

Canines which have up to 300 olfactory receptors are known for their keen smell and are often used in this same capacity to locate missing persons and detect illegal narcotics.

One dog, Flint, a border collie, has been roaming the local research facility, which is known for its fruit tree and grape research, according to the release.

“Every day, average dogs are competing and finding these scents, and that speaks to their potential ability to detect ecologically and agriculturally relevant targets,” Feuerbacher said in the release.

hile spotted lanternfly infestation is fairly widespread locally, Nita said

growers have not reported notable losses.

“In terms of the damages, it is not as bad as we first thought, and rarely will spotted lanternfly kill the plant. It’s really a nuisance pest,” he said. “Our mission is to educate growers on how to spray wisely and not to panic.”

Still, Nita said the spotted lanternfly is of national concern.

Certain insecticides have been found to be effective in combating the spotted lanternfly. nd researchers are also studying two native fungi as a biological control.

For more information about the canine study, visit: https://docs.google. com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdeP29ZFRFAOp_AFJmkWP50H1EBl2_GKDneSNrblI9yRasng/viewform.

A Shenandoah County fire official says lightning struck and set a barn ablaze Saturday afternoon.

Fire and rescue workers responded to a structure fire at 770 Brook Creek Road, Toms Brook, shortly after 1 p.m. Saturday. Assistant Fire Marshal Travis Hilliard said by phone on Monday that crews arrived to find a hay barn engulfed in flames. irefighters battled the blaze in an effort to keep flames from spreading to the house and nearby outbuildings, Hilliard said.

Crews brought the fire under control at approximately 3:30 p.m. The last firefighters left the scene around 4:15p.m. However, because the barn contained hay, the remains could smolder for days or weeks,

illiard said. irefighters plan to check on the site frequently until the remains stop smoldering, he said.

No responders or civilians reported injuries, Hilliard said. The residents

NellSedwickHite

Organization.Shewasa memberoftheLurayUnited MethodistChurch.OnMay 16,1952,shemarriedPage BrubakerHite,who precededherindeath. Sheissurvivedbytwo sisters,BarbaraBrubaker andBettyS.Brimm,bothof Luray.Nellblessedher manyniecesandnephews withloveandaffection.

stored only hay in the barn, no animals or equipment, he said. The lightning strike caused minor damage to the house, Hilliard said.

Crews from stations in

Toms Brook, Woodstock, Conicville, Edinburg, Strasburg, Middletown and from the Shenandoah County Department of Fire and Rescue responded to the incident.

EltaRaeJenkins

grandparents;onedaughter, ShelleyJoJenkins;asister, ShirleyFayeJudd;anda brother,CletusEdward “Pete”Griffith.

EltaworkedattheA&P Storefor18yearsandalso helpedforseveralyearswith secretarialworkatthe familyownedbusinessesof GeneralExcavation,Inc. andThorntonRiver Orchard.Shewasamember oftheRileyvilleGospel Church.

EltaRaeGriffithJenkins, age76,passedawayather homeinLuray,Virginia,on Friday,April21,2023.

ShewasbornAugust26, 1946inLuray,Va.,andwas thedaughterofJunior CletusGriffithandMartha BellMarstonGriffith.Her grandparentswereEdward JacksonMarstonandOlga BellMarstonandCletus FranklinGriffithandMattie VirginiaMillerGriffith.

Eltawasalovingandgiving persontoallwhoknewher andwasacaregivertomany membersofherimmediate family,aswellashelpfulto othersinthecommunity. Herprimaryfocusinlife wastotakecareofher family,children,and especiallyhergrandchild.

NellSedwickHite,90,of Luray,passedawayon Friday,April21,2023,at BlueRidgeHospicein Winchester.

ShewasbornonSeptember 15,1932,inLurayandwas adaughterofthelate RumseyNathanSedwick andEthelBelleSedwick. Nellhadworkedasan administrativeassistantfor theFoodandAgriculture

Inadditiontoherhusband, shewasprecededindeath byfourbrothers,ElmerN., JulianR.,RichardP.and JamesG.Sedwick;and threesisters, MarieSpitler, WandaAdamsand CatherineFake.

Amemorialservicewillbe conductedat2p.m.on Saturday,May13,atthe BradleyFuneralHomeby Garland"Bubba" Gochenour.Burialwillbe private.Inlieuofflowers donationscanbemadeto BlueRidgeHospice WinchesterVA.

Ronnie Buracker

1-07-1947 to 2-08-2023

Our brother, Ronnie never wanted any Funeral Service or any type of Celebration of Life. However, we feel he needs to be honored in some way. He was very well-known all over the county and beyond with so many great friends that we just couldn’t let him go without honoring him... something he truly deserves.

From the time Ronnie was a very young boy, he LOVED to collect arrowheads - he would walk thru the elds for hours and loved every minute of it. As he got older he enjoyed collecting all sorts of artifacts. When he retired, he spent a lot of his free time doing paintings, not only for himself, but family and friends as well. As time progressed, he got into wood carvings .... such as intricate walking canes, headboards, people and NUMEROUS other items. ere was hardly anything he couldn’t do or at least attempt to accomplish. He ALWAYS loved helping people and sharing his talent with them. His artistic work was impeccable and we were always so very proud of him. He did numerous paintings and wood carvings for several people but he also had a love for working with antique furniture as well. He enjoyed so much making di erent items for the Luray Caverns for his friends, Rod and John Graves over the past several years ..... a must see if you haven’t! His work is just amazing-anyone could attest to that!

When Ronnie and his wife acquired their dog - Artie; he became his walking buddy---he always seemed to be with him wherever he would go; even if Artie had to wait in the car, he had to be by his side.

Ronnie grieved badly with the passing of he and Penny’s son, Jason (Jeb). eir dog, Artie, seemed to help somewhat with the grief!!! Artie was even with Ronnie in his last hours as he went walking... most likely looking for arrowheads.

He will be missed beyond words, by his entire family and amazing friends... and of course his beloved dog, Artie. Your continued prayers for his wife, Penny, their son Todd and families are truly appreciated. RIP Ronnie... you will live forever in all of our hearts. If love could have saved you - you would still be here with us today.

By his sisters: Nancy, Brenda & Karen Lovingly - His Family

Ronnie’s memory lives inside all of us and he will never be forgotten!

OnMarch3,1966,Elta marriedRussellAshby Jenkins,whosurvives.She isalsosurvivedbyoneson, RodneyAlanJenkinsand wifeKarenofLuray;and onegranddaughter,Allison RaeJenkinsofLuray.Elta wasalsoconsidered“Nan” toJoshuaMichaelHensh andDanielleFrancesShenk ofLuray.

Eltawasprecededindeath byherparentsand

FuneralservicesbyPastor DonnieLamwillbeheldat RileyvilleGospelChurch, 480RileyvilleRoad, Rileyville,Va.22650on TuesdayApril25,2023. Therewillbevisitationtime withthefamilystartingat 10a.m.atthechurchand officialserviceswillbegin at11a.m.andendwith burialatBeahm’sChapel Cemetery.

Elta’smemorymaybe honoredbymaking donationstotheLurayFire DepartmentorRileyville GospelChurch. Flowerarrangementsmay besenttotheBradley FuneralHomepriortothe service.

(Chetty);grandchildren, ChristopherSpielman (Valerie),RyanSpielman (Missy),AmyPence (Hank);great-grandchildren, LaniSpielman,Joseph Spielman,TylerMcDonald, LilySpielman,Kane Spielman,CaitlynCrawford andZacharyCrawford; sisters,PaulineAmbrogiand BethAnnVice.

FrancesB.Kane,100of Winchester,VA,passed awayonSunday,April23, 2023atBlueRidgeHospice InpatientCareCenter.

Franceswasbornin1922 thedaughterofthelate FrancisEmersonBeeton,Sr. andAnnaVetterBeeton.

Shewasagraduateof OsborneHighSchoolin Manassas.Francesplayed basketballinHighSchool.

Shewasanavidgolfer, whichcontinuedwellinto her90’s.Shebelongedto severalcardgroupsin AutumnGlen.Franceswas ActiveintheLurayUMC, lovedplayingfootballwith hergrandchildrenandwas anavidWashington RedskinsandNationalsfan. Shewasveryproudand blessedtobeagreatgrandmotherto7greatgrandchildren. ShemarriedJohnHarold KaneonSeptember11, 1943inWashingtonD.C. Heprecededherindeathon June18,2010.

Francesissurvivedbyher daughters,BonniePence (Tom),MissySpielman

Sheisprecededindeathby herparents,husband;sisters, KathleenButler,Helen Fines,JaneBouteiller, NancyFritz;brothers,Frank Beeton,Jr.andRalph Beeton.

Avisitationwillbeheldon Friday,April28,2023at 10:30amwithaserviceto followat12pmallheldat OmpsFuneralHome, AmherstChapel.A receptionwillbeheldafter theserviceatOmpsFuneral Home,ReceptionCenter. Intermentwillbeprivate. OfficiatingwillbePastor ScottSantmeirfrom FellowshipBibleChurch. Thefamilywouldliketo thankthenursesandstaffat BlueRidgeHospicefor takingsuch wonderfulcare ofFrances.

Memorialcontributionsmay bemadeinmemoryof FrancestoBlueRidge Hospice,333W.CorkSt., Suite405,Winchester,VA 22601orGraceUnited MethodistChurch,7882 MainSt,Middletown,VA 22645.

Pleasevisitobituariesand tributewallat ompsfuneralhome.com

FrancesB.Kane

Rich Cooley/For the PNC

A barn was destroyed by a lightning strike Saturday off Brook Creek Road west of Toms Brook.

THE ONE WHO KNOWS

Children are naturally curious. Repeatedly, we hear, “why?” at is how a child learns…by asking one who knows. As a child grows to adulthood the questions become more di cult and the answers more elusive. en who will they ask? Most solutions are found through experience and in the written word. It has been said that children live what they learn. If their experience has been to learn of God’s wisdom and love at an early age, they will likely search His word for answers to more complex issues as an adult. Bring your child to God’s House to experience Him. When he is older he will know to ask the One who knows.

Bethlehem Christian Church, Stanley, Sunday 9 a.m. contemporary service, 11 a.m. traditional service

Big Spring Mennonite Church, 2545 Mims Road, Luray,is a welcoming congregation for everyone. Services at 10:30 a.m. Sunday,for adults and for children’s activities. Community fellowship lunch monthly. Affiliated with Mennonite Church USA. www. bigspringmennonite.org.Pastor Pearl Hartman: 540-217-0653.

Blue Ridge Pentecostal Church, Stanley, Wednesday and Saturday services 7 p.m. & Sunday worship 10 a.m.

Christ Episcopal Church, 16 Amiss Ave., worship at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m., Sunday school at 11 a.m., 540-743-5734.

Compton Old Country Church of Jesus Christ, services at 7 p.m. Friday and at 10:30 a.m. Saturday. For more information, contact Pastor Frazier at 540244-9267.

Ida Grove Gospel Chapel, 135 Ida Hollow Rd., Luray, Sunday services at 11 a.m., as well as a drive-in service, where attendees can listen to the service from their vehicle on 106.3 FM. For more information, contact Pastor Pete Campbell at 540-743-3045.

Luray United Methodist Church contemporary service 8:30 a.m. with traditional Sunday worship at 11 a.m.

By REVEREND CARRIE EVANS

Luray Church of the Brethren, Sunday services 9:45 a.m. For more information, contact the church at 743-5563 or email LurayBrethren@gmail.com.

Leake’s Chapel Church of the Brethren, Sunday worship 11 a.m. For more information, contact Pastor Keith Higgs at 540-271-2978 or the church office at 540-778-4151.

New Direction Community Church

52 Cave St., Luray, Sunday worship 10 a.m. For more information, contact 540-843-2558 or 540-253-5296 (Belvoir Assembly).

Page United Methodist Church, Luray, Sunday worship 11 a.m. For more information, contact the Rev. Laura Schultz at 301-748-9362.

Rocky Branch Regular Baptist Church, 141 E. Rocky Branch Rd., Luray, Sunday worship at 11 a.m., everyone is welcome.

St. George’s Episcopal Church, 3380 Pine Grove Rd., Stanley, indoor worship 11 a.m. Sundays, third Sunday is Holy Eucharist, all other Sundays are morning prayer. For more information, contact 540560-9422.

Stanley New Hope Pentecostal Church, beginning April 2 the church will offer two morning worship services 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m., evening service continues at 6 p.m

From Front Royal Presbyterian Church. Let’s call it, “Clothed in Kindness.”

“As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.”

A UCC pastor tells the story of one year at a General Synod meeting he was shocked to ride down the escalator with three elegantly dressed women. Their high-heeled shoes, stockinged legs and beautifully cut skirts seemed so out of place in the UCC sea of clergy appropriate clothing. He wondered if they were missionaries from some other religion that only accepts really tall women with a sense of style and a knack for doing hair and make-up.

The mystery was solved when they appeared on the stage for worship and were introduced as members of the first ever General Synod Transgender Choir. Finally, someone with the courage to challenge the dress code.

But the Apostle Paul isn’t talking about what we are wearing in terms of fashion and style. Though that would be a much easier way to live.

We as the church do a really fine job dressing ourselves up for Sunday morning in our Sunday best, spitting down the cowlick in our boys’ hair and making sure our teenage girls skirts aren’t too short. We can honestly say we have our “Sunday go to meeting clothes” … and that’s fine except when it isn’t. If kindness… compassion…humility… meekness and patience aren’t underneath, we are nothing.

Paul’s fashion advice to the Colossians is this: get rid of your old threads, remove the garments that once defined your former life. Take them off. Strip them off. And don’t give them away to Goodwill. Burn them. Destroy them. It is one of the strongest baptismal texts in all of scripture because we are being called to a new way of life, not one of this world, but one of God’s world.

We are quick to stereotype people by the way they dress, how many tattoos or piercings they have, the label on their purse or brand name of their tennis shoes… what if we were turned inside out.

So that the truth of our character was to be our clothing? What would you be wearing?

Anger, resentment, discrimination, joy, frustration, gratitude, generosity … the list can go on.

Paul is clear that our clothing should resemble that of compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.

What did you put on this morning?

Photo Credit: bigstockphoto/NewAfrica

Will

publish a 2023 Graduation Tab on May 31st (DNR) and June 1st (PNC)

We will be listing the names of graduating seniors from public and private schools in Shenandoah County, Page County, Rockingham County, Augusta County and the City of Harrisonburg.

Take this opportunity to have your graduating seniors picture and a little message published in this special section. This will be a keepsake for years to come.

• All ads are 4.521” x 2.5” and are $50 each

• All orders must be received by May 17, 2023

Select one of the frames below. Complete the form to the right and we will typeset your Student’s Name, your message and signature information into the one that you have selected.

Mary Jane Jones

Mary Jane Jones

Mary Jane Jones

Gaskins tosses one-hit shutout in Page win

By CODY ELLIOTT

For the Page News and Courier

Junior ace Bailee Gaskins returned to her dominant self, tossing a complete-game, one-hit shutout as Page County earned an important 2-0 shutout of Strasburg in Bull Run District softball on Friday.

Gaskins allowed just two walks and struck out 11 in the home win.

At the plate for the Panthers,

unior outfielder rianna oud abush and senior infielder oce lyne Rinker each had a pair of hits.

The game was a classic pitcher’s duel as Page got a run in the first inning off an error in left field by the Rams to go up 1-0. Page’s second run came when freshman Ali Purdham scored on a wild pitch.

Strasburg junior Kiersten Wiseley got the start and tossed four innings, giving up one unearned

Luray’s Weakley continuing to light it up at college level

By CODY ELLIOTT

For the Page News and Courier

FROSTBURG, Md. — Shortly after Jenna Eckleberry accepted the head coaching po sition at Frostburg State, moving over from Shepherd University in West Virginia, she brought Luray product Emilee eakley to campus for a tour of the FSU campus.

Weakley had committed to SU as a senior in high school during Eckleberry’s tenure there, but when the head coach took the FSU job, the guard opened her recruitment.

“I told her when we were walking around campus that summer, ‘You’re going to be an ll merican here,’ Eckleberry recalled. “Now, did I think it’d be already? No, I didn’t.”

Weakley, a versatile 5-foot-11 guard with a knack for getting to the hoop but an ability to be deadly from deep, continued what she did with the Bulldogs and outperformed.

After considering several Division I offers and other Division II opportunities, Weakley committed to Eckleberry and the Bobcats shortly after her visit last summer.

Then, this past season, Weakley put up the type of season college freshmen dream of.

“ hen I sit back and reflect, it’s surreal, Weakley said. “There are things I’ll never forget. I defi nitely never expected it. I just love basketball, and I love to play. I hate to lose, and I’m very competitive. No matter what, I’m going to play as hard as I can.”

t Luray, the multi sport star was a first team all-state selection at the Class 2 level twice and an All-Region 2B honoree all four years of her basketball varsity career.

See WEAKLEY, Page B2

run on a hit and a walk with five strikeouts. Freshman Ava Mayhew pitched two frames in relief, allowing a run on a hit and two walks while striking out four.

Mayhew also had a double for the lone hit of the game for the Rams. It was the second win in as many days for the Panthers after making the trip south to Stuarts Draft for a 7-4 non-district win Thursday.

Gaskins struck out six across three innings in that one, allowing one run on four hits and zero walks before sophomore Karleigh Austin came in for relief, giving up three unearned runs on six hits.

Roudabush was 3-for-4 with a double, a triple, and two RBIs in the win over the Cougars, while junior infielder Emme Baugher was 2-for-4 with an RBI and Rinker added two hits and an RBI herself.

Purdham also scored two hits

and a pair of runs, while sophomore catcher Emma Lucas had an RBI single and a walk at the plate.

SEVEN SENT

Big fourth inning propels Gobblers to win over Streaks

By JOHN BREEDEN

For the Page News and Courier BROADWAY — It was the type of mental toughness good teams tend to display at this time of the year.

Down three through three and a half innings, Broadway scored seven runs in the fourth and hung on defensively to defeat city/county foe Harrisonburg 10-6 on Friday in Valley District softball action at BHS.

BHS head coach Becky Cantrell said the seven-run fourth inning reminded her of games earlier in the year when they were “dragging” on the scoreboard. She was pleased with how her team kept their composure.

“We were trying to do way too much instead of letting the game come to us,” Cantrell said. “It’s like I’ve said all year

Green Hornets remain locked, crush Mustangs

By JOHN BREEDEN

For the Page News and Courier

FISHERSVILLE — Like their first meeting earlier this year, Wilson Memorial ended things early against Monticello with a convincing non-district win.

The Green Hornets strung together seven runs in the fourth inning and notched three more in the fi fth and sixth to secure an 11-1 six-inning baseball victory over the Mustangs on Monday at Bo Bowers Stadium. Monday brought back flashes of

Mar. 21 when the Green Hornets downed Monticello 13-3 after five innings on the road. WMHS head coach Rodney Cullen felt Monticello’s starting pitcher, Ethan oach, kept them off-balance early — but they could adjust nicely.

“That’s credit to the guys for not getting frustrated,” Cullen said. “We were able to knock [Roach] out in the fourth, and then after that, we scored every inning. [I’m]

Saunders

really happy with that.”

The biggest hit of Wilson Memorial’s seven-run fourth inning was a three-run triple courtesy of sophomore shortstop Jayden Saunders. The standout infielder was for , driv ing in four runs total and scoring two.

Saunders said they were excited to play Monday’s game and keep the midseason momentum rolling.

“We were looking to get a win,”

Saunders said. “I feel like we batted well, [and the] defense [was good] as well. We played a strong game.”

Senior Aiden Podgorski and sophomore Eli Irving also drove in runs in the fourth inning. Both did it in a two-strike count situation, which the veteran skipper Cullen was happy to see them work out of.

“I just think we had a good approach at the plate,” Cullen said. “We carried it on the rest of the game [and] they did a pretty nice job.”

Irving carried the load on the mound for the Green Hornets, tossing for four innings and striking out four. Cullen applauded Irving for getting ahead in counts and not allowing any runs in the top of the fourth despite the Mustangs having the bases loaded.

“That might’ve broken [Monticello’s] back a little bit,” Cullen said. “[They] got the bases loaded and had a chance to take the lead, but we got out of that, and we answered back after that.”

Prep Baseball

Prep Softball

Broadway’s Jasmine Gett slides safely into third base against Harrisonburg’s Kayli Alvarado.

Women’s College Basketball

Frostburg State Athletics

Frostburg State guard Emilee Weakley, a Luray alum, defends on the wing during a game.

See GOBBLERS, Page B2

The 2021-22 Daily News-Record Girls Basketball Player of the Year was the state’s top player in 2021, guiding the program to its first ever irginia igh School League state title, and she finished her L S career as the program’s all-time leading scorer.

“Emilee has a really rare motor and competitive drive,” Bulldogs head coach Joe Lucas said. “Her physical gifts are obvious, but her motor and desire to compete are special. She helped take our program to unprecedented heights and is now making a name for herself at Frostburg. Watching her college game, the same traits made her dominant.”

Weakley eclipsed 2,000 career points at Luray and ranks fourth all time in SL girls basketball scoring history, and it took the Bulldogs to three consecutive title games.

“She outworks everyone and just plays harder,” Lucas said. “I am so proud of how she’s made the transition and stayed true to herself and what got her there.”

Upon arrival at Frostburg State, it took little time for Weakley to make herself at home.

She started all 30 games in her debut season and led Division III women’s basketball with an average of 25.5 points per game, shooting . percent from the field.

In a win over West Liberty on Feb. 15, Weakley scored a career high points and grabbed rebounds. She finished with 19 double-doubles on the year. She also broke FSU’s and the Mountain East Conference’s single-season scoring record with 766.

“I feel like I’ve definitely grown throughout my freshman season, especially assists-wise,” Weakley said. “I’ve improved at looking around the court, seeing better, and not making so many freshman mistakes and sudden turnovers. … A lot of that has come from my coaches and 1-on-1 workouts. e work on things I specifically need to work on and evolve my game in that manner. I think that was a really big thing for me.”

eakley finished the season averaging . rebounds and 1.2 assists per game. She was named the MEC Freshman of the Year and was a first team all conference selection.

She earned an honorable mention All-American spot, a D2CCA All-American second-team honor, and the World Exposure Report NCAA DII Freshman of the Year.

“In the preseason, we saw her potential, and we knew right away that she could score the basketball,” Eckleberry said. “Emilee’s motor does not stop. You saw that early and immediately knew the impact she’d have. You could easily see she was special.”

In that 47-point outing in February, Weakley hit a halfcourt buzzer-beat to win it.

As a result, the play was featured on ESPN’s Sportscenter with Scott an elt.

Looking back, Weakley could have gone a different route and attended a D-I school.

Instead, she stuck to her gut and rolled with Eckleberry and the staff to FSU.

“So many people get caught up in saying they’re attending a ivision I school, eakley said. “You’ll find so many athletes going to a D-I school and then say, ‘Wow, this isn’t all it was cracked up to be.’ But you should really consider all factors. There’s so much competition at the D-II level. We work just as hard, work really hard. Go where you’re happy. I thought I’d be happy somewhere I didn’t have to eat, breathe, and sleep basketball and knew my coaches had my back. I focused on that, and I felt Frostburg was the right place and somewhere I could do it. I just found people I wanted to play for. A lot of people get caught up in the title but don’t listen to all the voices around you.”

eakley was Eckleberry’s first priority when she took the job at FSU, as she knew she was the type of player that could come on campus and immediately make an impact.

At that point, the Bobcats head coach promised Weakley that she’d one day be a household name and earn All-American honors in her career if she kept improving.

Little did she know that would happen so quickly.

“Emilee is a flat-out athlete who can put the ball through the hoop. That’s what we needed — someone that can come in and produce immediately and score the basketball. In my style, I like to have [taller] girls. I knew Em was a guard, but she can play all five positions and shoot the ball from outside. It was a no-brainer for me. I definitely got a steal, and I’m very fortunate she came here to Frostburg.”

FROM PAGE B1

Irving said it was a big win because it was on a Monday, adding that it can be tough to be prepared with the weekend off.

“For us, it was just staying consistent,” Irving said. “We weren’t hitting early, then we started hitting, and that was the big thing.”

Irving admitted he started to wear towards the end of his pitching stint and allowed some guys on base. Sophomore Ryan McDaniel and Podgorski threw for an inning in relief after Irving went out.

Overall, though, Irving felt good about his outing.

“I was locating the fastball well and getting ahead of batters,” Irving said. “That allowed me to throw other pitches late in the count.”

Second baseman Jalen Rowziea senior, contributed two hits and two RBIs, while McDaniel went 2-for-3 and scored a run.

The Green Hornets (9-3) have won three straight and nine of 10 and host Waynesboro Tuesday and Staunton Friday in two crucial Shenandoah District matchups.

Wilson Memorial is off to a great start in a huge week ahead. Irving said that it’s a huge confidence booster anytime they can open the week with a win.

“ In a three game week, the first one’s tough, Irving said. “ hen you win it, it gives you confidence. Those are two big games. … We haven’t played Waynesboro yet, and Staunton gave us some trouble the first time, so we have to go win them.”

Saunders attested to the importance of a win to start the week.

He said he felt like if they’re able to jump ahead on Tuesday and Friday; they’ll come away with two more wins.

“This win really sets the tone because we’re already ahead in our week,” Saunders said. “We just [have] to keep going forward.”

Monticello 000 010 x — 1 4 2 Wilson Memorial 100 712— 11 11 1 Roach, McCullough (4), Flynn (5), Mullinex (6), and Shifflett. E. Irving, McDaniel (5), Podgorski (6), and Aleshire. 2B — WM: Rowzie. 3B — WM: Saunders. TB — MON: Halliday, Lane, LaPrade, McCullough. WM: Goff, E. Irving (2), McDaniel (2), Mendez, Podgorski, Rowzie (3), Saunders (4). RBI — MON: McCullough. WM: E. Irving, Mendez, Podgorski (2), Rodgers, Rowzie (2), Saunders (4). ROE — WM: Rodgers. FC — MON: Critzer, Halliday, LaPrade. WM: Rodgers, Wood (2). SB — WM: Podgorski, Saunders. LOB — MON: 4. WM: 5. E — MON: Critzer, Roach. WM: McDaniel.

SPEED THRILLS

Gett’s Attributes Make Her A Quality Asset To Broadway

By JOHN BREEDEN

For the Page News and Courier

BROADWAY — Broadway’s Jasmine Gett has proven to be a player that keeps any defense she faces on its toes.

With a mix of speed and solid hitting ability, the unior outfielder has shown to be effective both at the plate and in baserunning — making her a key asset to the Gobblers program.

Gett went 2-for-3, scored three runs, and stole three bases in Broadway’s win over Harrisonburg on Friday.

There are two things the junior pointed to that she believes led them to success.

“I think coming together as a team and working on hitting with two strikes, that really gets us places,” Gett said postgame. “[Also] bunting [and] using small ball, I think that really gets us far in the game, as well as our defense to back it up — and [BHS freshman pitcher] Lilah [Deavers] plays a big part in that. She’s really good.”

After Friday’s win, Broadway head coach Becky Cantrell spoke on the benefits of having a player with the running ability of Gett.

“That puts it on the defense in more ways than one,” Cantrell said. “Her being able to get on base, and when she’s on base, you can’t take anything for granted [with] her speed. … You can’t defend speed.”

Gett has nabbed 15 stolen bases this season, averaging just over one per game. Gett provided insight on her approach to grabbing extra bases following Friday’s win.

“[I] get a good jump,” Gett said. “If I see the catcher’s not going to field it perfectly, take off. I don’t think too much about it. I just run.”

As Cantrell attested to, Gett’s speed is a threat to defense in multiple ways. That was evident after she laid down a bunt single against Harrisonburg in the bottom of the third on Friday.

Gett knows, however, that quickness doesn’t automatically take free bases.

She said it’s strategic, and knowing when to run is crucial.

“I think reading your defense is a really big part of that,” Gett said. “I really pay attention because they like to play up a lot, because they expect me to bunt. So [if] they play up, we push [the ball] past them. [If] they play back, we drop [the ball] right in front of them. aving confidence I think is a big thing too, and knowing that you’ll be able to do it.”

Cantrell realizes Gett playing small ball is a benefit but knows she’s not a slouch at the plate either.

She said Gett can drive one to the outfield anytime, which keeps the defense guessing.

“She can hit for power as well,” Cantrell said. “Now, the thing we have to work on is her ability to turn on pitches and put it through the gap, because it seems like all the defenses are really shortening up on her.”

The obblers , alley have mounted solid success this season, but one game they wish they could have back was the 10-0 loss at Turner Ashby on April 14.

Gett said they didn’t play much small ball in that game and felt things might’ve been different had they done so.

“I think that might’ve hurt us a little bit,” Gett said. “I think we were scared to lay the bunt down. … I think that was [a] real learning experience for us, because since then, we’ve been using it and we’ve done a lot better.”

Gett has showcased her speed in multiple aspects of the game, but Cantrell said she’s not the only one quick on their feet.

Cantrell said her team possesses much speed, and if they can get to the level of Gett, they can be an even more significant threat in the alley.

“We have to get those kids where she is, and then that will really make us a much tougher team,” Cantrell said.

long — I believe in them, they believe in themselves, and we believe we can get it done. … I’m proud of them for staying at it in the batter’s box and putting up some runs. We’ve been working hard on some things and they executed well on those.”

Impressive in the circle again was freshman Lilah Deavers, who came in after sophomore Emma Morris’ three inning stint with five strikeouts. Deavers tossed four innings and struck out 11 to close out the victory.

“They were hitting off of Emma a little bit, so I knew they could probably hit off of me, too,” Deavers said. “I went in there and thought that I just need to move the ball a lot and try to miss their bats.”

Deavers also found success at the plate, notching two hits — including a double — and two RBIs. BHS sophomore third baseman Savannah Janzen contributed two hits and two BIs, while unior first baseman Taylor Suters drove in three runs.

Friday marked the first career varsity start for freshman April Gingerich, who was brought up from junior varsity.

Gingerich got on base twice and slammed a double.

“She wasn’t nervous at all,” Cantrell said. “She wants to be up here, and she did exactly what I

thought she could do for us. She’s a solid glove in the outfield. I’m expecting big things out of that kid later in the year.”

Broadway junior center fielder Jasmine Gett crossed home plate twice on Friday and tallied two hits.

She used her speed to her advantage and nabbed three stolen bases in the big city/county victory.

Gett said a two-strike approach and coming together as a team has led them to success, as it did Friday.

“That really gets us places,” Gett said. “[Also] bunting [and] using small ball, I think that really gets us far in the game, as well as our defense to back it up — and Lilah plays a big part in that, she’s really good.”

HHS junior standout Ashlyn Smiley carried the load in the circle for Harrisonburg, throwing four innings and striking out six. Junior Camryn Johnson came in to throw two innings of relief for the Blue Streaks.

unior left fielder ulia Byler led the Streaks with three hits and an RBI, while sophomore catcher McKenna Dayton and junior shortstop Idaly Alvarez each had two hits and an RBI in the district setback.

HHS head coach Derek Smiley said Ashlyn was throwing great pitches, but the Gobblers found a way to string hits together in the fourth.

“Everything was just going their way for one inning,” Derek said. “It

wasn’t like we were throwing bad pitches. … We just couldn’t buy an out, and unfortunately, that’s how the game goes.”

Derek applauded Byler for “hammering” the ball all game long, and said his team did a lot of things well despite the loss. Yet, when playing a team like Broadway, they need everything to go their way.

“They want to face good pitching,” Derek said. “We knew Lilah was coming in, she throws really well. My girls wanted that challenge and see what we could do against her. … That type of stuff means a lot because we know as we go through this season, we have tough competition every single night. Our ultimate goal is to get the best output of our team going into our playoffs.”

The obblers , alley travel to Rockbridge County on Tuesday for a alley istrict clash, while the Streaks , alley host Strasburg in non-district play Wednesday.

The Gobblers have gone 2-1 since falling 10-0 to Turner Ashby on April 14, a game Deavers admitted stung a bit. She feels the team has turned that loss into a positive since then and is hopeful for what’s to come.

“It gave us a lot of motivation,” Deavers said. “We’ve been working a lot harder and we’re ready to get going again.”

Hornets

Daniel Lin / For the PNC

Broadway’s Brooklyn Spitzer forces Harrisonburg’s Kayli Alvarado out at second base.

Gobblers FROM PAGE B1

Daniel Lin / For the PNC

Broadway’s Jasmine Gett celebrates as she rounds the bases after hitting a two-run homer against Fort Defiance.

Blue Streaks down Gobblers in district match

By CODY ELLIOTT

For the Page News and Courier

ith victories in five of the six singles matches, arrisonburg earned a alley istrict girls tennis win over Broadway on riday at home.

Sophia Yoder earned a win over Broadway’s nnabelle Cook at the o. spot for the Blue Streaks and was followed up by S teammates Caryanne Shaw, eronica utierre , Olivia Eberly, and atalie Corso, all earning victories in their respective singles matches.

The lone singles win for the obblers came from unior Maya Bacon at o. singles, as she earned a thrilling victory over Leslie Yang.

In the doubles matches, Bacon paired with Maggie oberts to earn a victory at the o. spot, but Yang Shaw and utierre Eberly came out with wins at o. and o. to wrap it up for the Streaks.

arrisonburg , alley will aim for its third straight win ednesday with a non district match against Sherando at home.

Broadway , alley hosts ockbridge County on Tuesday.

Prep Baseball

Bulldogs snap seven-game losing streak

By CODY ELLIOTT

For the Page News and Courier

Cameron eaver and Christian Lent had three hits and an BI each as Luray snapped a seven game losing streak with a home victory over Bull un istrict baseball opponent Clarke County on Tuesday.

The two uniors combined for six hits, three runs and two BIs.

Bailey raybeal, a senior outfielder, was for with an BI triple for the Bulldogs, while unior outfielder Mason Seekford had two hits.

Trever riffith, a senior outfielder, added a two run triple for Luray.

Matthew Sipe was for with a triple for Clarke in the road loss.

The Bulldogs , return to action Tuesday against district opponent Central at home, while the Eagles , Bull un will travel to appahannock County on riday for a league contest.

Girls Soccer

Toone’s hat trick guides Clarke past Luray

By CODY ELLIOTT

For the Page News and Courier

unior midfielder Madison Toone had a hat trick as Clarke County remained unbeaten with a statement making rout of Bull un istrict opponent Luray in girls soccer action on the road Tuesday.

unior forward elsey Elrod and sophomore forward Leah Mitchell had a goal and an assist each for the Eagles, while unior defender Sidney Shinaberry also oined the action with the game’s final goal.

Clarke , Bull un is back in action Monday against Mountain iew at home in a district contest, while the Bulldogs , Bull un will travel to Central on Tuesday for their next district game.

STOUT STREAKS

Harrisonburg tops Broadway in road rout

By JOHN BREEDEN

For the Page News and Courier BROADWAY arrisonburg put together one of its best performances of the season on riday.

The Blue Streaks overwhelmed Broadway and dominated in every aspect of the game, earning a decisive alley istrict boys soccer victory at B S. S head coach nthony Marasco has seen many things in previous games that he’s wanted his guys to work on, and he felt they did that on riday.

“I challenged the guys to work on those things and push themselves to improve, Marasco said. “ e saw a lot of those corrections made in the game riday , which as a coaching staff, we can’t ask for much more than that.

Sophomore striker ernando alindo omero, sophomore I aack Cru on ale , and unior Brian ntune drilled two goals apiece for arrisonburg, while unior wing Isai odrigue Mendo a and senior idan Saunders each contributed a goal.

Girls Soccer

reshman wing Edison attan and unior abriel Telles ome each tallied two assists for the Blue Streaks.

“Everyone gave a really good effort, Marasco said. “ e’ve struggled to score goals in a lot of games this year, so seeing kids like ernando, I aack, and Brian get two, and Isai getting his first goal in two years, it was really nice to see those things.

Cru said riday’s win would boost their confidence and playing level after having some games earlier in the year where they struggled with consistency.

“ e had some rough games where we tied , Cru said. “ e were ust playing somewhat badly, but this game is going to bring up our motivation. e’ll pick it up a lot more than we already have.

alindo feels they’ve done a better ob working together as a team lately by getting the ball to whoever is in a position to score, no matter who it is.

“ e don’t really have a specific player who scores our goals, alindo said. “There was a point where there was selfishness, but I feel now we’ve

moved past that and we give whoever’s in a better position the ball and we’ve ust been finishing it. ith seven players out, including four starters, first year Broadway head coach hillip Ewell knew riday would be an uphill battle and it certainly was.

“It affects the team greatly, but it’s the problem with having great kids, Ewell said. “Two of them made EC nationals, so kudos to them. eople behind them were ready to step up, and we have to keep a positive attitude, keep our heads up, and keep working hard.

The Blue Streaks , alley travel to ohn andley Tuesday for non district play, while the obblers , alley travel to ockbridge County that evening for a alley istrict clash.

Marasco said the mindset moving forward is to take it one game at a time and focus on the small things, as they now ride a two game winning streak heading into Tuesday.

“I think as long as we keep getting better each day, the results will come, Marasco said.

Little Giants win third straight

By CODY ELLIOTT

For the Page News and Courier

There’s one team starting to heat up in the Shenandoah istrict, and it’s one that many around the league are familiar with succeeding.

va agner, a unior, scored three goals to finish with a hat trick as aynesboro earned its third consecutive victory

with an impressive Shenandoah istrict win over iverheads in reenville on riday.

The Little iants have won six of their last seven since an start. The one non win came in a draw with district rival Staunton. reshman arley ull also impressed for aynesboro in the win on riday, scoring a career high two goals

of her own in the road victory.

The Little iants , Shenandoah will return to the pitch on Tuesday for a massive league showdown with local rival ilson Memorial in a battle of the district’s top two teams at S. The ladiators , Shenandoah will face district opponent Staunton on Monday at p.m. at Sentara ark in arrisonburg.

Daniel Lin / For the PNC

Harrisonburg’s Tyler Miller sets up a pass upfield.

Local initiative to promote advantages of drones takes flight

By BRIAN BREHM

For the Page News and Courier WINCHESTER — A project that aims to make Winchester a major hub for drone manufacturers and service providers continues to progress.

John S. Eberhardt III of Winchester, who for two years has been part of a local effort to show how drones can improve the daily lives of local residents and governments, said initial implementation of a flight network for unmanned aircraft is projected to occur late this year.

The cost, Eberhardt said, could be hundreds of thousands of dollars, but government grants are expected to offset adoption expenses.

The flight network will create a zone that tracks drones, monitors unsafe practices and determines the location of drone operators who are not following proper flight rules.

Eberhardt said drones, many of which are equipped with cameras,

have to follow the same laws as police and fire agencies, meaning drone pilots are not allowed to fly into off-limits area or use the unmanned devices to spy on people.

In time, Eberhardt said the flight network is expected to expand and include flight paths in and around Winchester. Creating the infrastructure to support that flight grid would be roughly equal to the cost of five new pickup trucks.

Eventually, Eberhardt said the flight network could expand across a wide enough area to allow first responders to use drones as life-saving devices. For example, a drone could report to an emergency scene and relay aerial views of the situation before police, fire and rescue crews arrive, and even let first responders know about the road conditions they’ll face along the way.

“You’ll actually get better fire and police coverage,” Eberhardt said.

Additionally, drones could be used to transport life-saving med-

ications like Narcan to remote areas such as the Back Creek District of Frederick County, and they would be able to do so in much less time than it would take for a wheeled vehicle to reach the scene.

“You can save lives and save money,” Eberhardt said.

Eventually, he said, the goal is to use drones for the commercial delivery of packages to residents and businesses in the Winchester area. The keys to reaching that goal include finding the most cost-effective ways to implement and maintain a flight network and demonstrating that drone services are affordable enough for the network to support itself.

Ultimately, Eberhardt said the hope is that drone manufacturers and the companies that supply parts, software and support to them will realize that Winchester is a leading location for the advancement of drone technology and will want to locate their businesses here.

If you would like to see how trained pilots demonstrate the ca-

More Information

Eventually, the goal is to use drones for the commercial delivery of packages to residents and businesses in the Winchester area.

pabilities and potential of drones, you’ll get your chance on May 6. Eberhardt said eight flight teams will be in the parking lot at 202 S. Stewart St., across from the former hospital at 333 W. Cork St., from 11a.m. to 4p.m. to provide aerial coverage of the 96th Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival‘s Glo Fiber Grand Feature Parade.

The public is welcome to visit the flight center on South Stewart Street, speak to the pilots and officials, and watch the live aerial video feeds as downtown Winchester celebrates The Bloom.

“By attending as an observer,” Eberhardt said, “you can see how we are leveraging VA FIX (Virginia Flight Information Exchange) to support operations planning, safely keeping drones

away from each other and from people, and collecting and sharing information in real time so that public safety [agencies] can ensure a safe and fun festival for everyone.”

According to its website, VA FIX is a platform for state and local public safety and government agencies to publish and share safety and quality-of-life advisory information with each other, unmanned system service providers, unmanned system operators and the public for transparency and safety.

To learn more about the May 6 drone demonstration and plans to make the Winchester area a centerpiece for the unmanned flight industry, email Eberhardt at jeberhardt@ata-llc.com or Scott Drew at sdrew@ata-llc.com.

Double homicide being investigated in Frederick County

By BRIAN BREHM

For the Page News and Courier

WINCHESTER — The Frederick County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a double homicide but is keeping details of the case under wraps.

According to a media release issued Saturday afternoon by Sheriff’s Office’s spokesman Lt. Warren Gosnell, a 911 call was received by emergency dispatch-

ers early Thursday morning regarding an individual who had reportedly been shot at a home on Fromans Road in southwestern Frederick County. Upon arrival, deputies entered the home and found there were actually two victims, and both were dead.

The media release does not include the names of the victims, the time of the 911 call or the address of the home on Fromans Road, which is west of Stephens

City near the communities of Marlboro and Mt. Hope.

When contacted Saturday afternoon, Frederick County Sheriff Lenny Millholland declined to elaborate on the double homicide other than to say the two victims were not familial relatives.

Millholland also confirmed information in the media release by saying “preliminary indications point to this being a targeted incident and not a random act of

violence.”

To explain the delay in releasing information about the case, Gosnell’s release states: “Crime scenes and investigations such as this often require allocation of additional resources and methodical processing of any and all evidence. The immediacy of dissemination of information cannot override the need for accuracy. Investigators continue to follow established guidelines

and procedures to ensure the integrity of this ongoing investigation.”

Anyone living in or traveling through the area of the 300, 400 or 500 blocks of Fromans Road between 6 p.m. Wednesday and 6 a.m. Thursday, or anyone who believes they may have information about the homicides is asked to call Frederick County Sheriff’s Office Investigator B. Edwards at 540-664-3669.

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