June 1, 2023

Hawksbill pool is officially open to the public

By GABRIELE PAONESSA

Page News and Courier STANLEY — Many are not aware there is an outdoor community pool in Stanley, however, the Hawksbill pool is open for the season and ready to welcome anyone to some swimming fun.

On Saturday, May 27, Hawksbill pool, located at the Hawksbill Recreation Park, opened its gates for the summer until its last day of the season on Monday, September 4, which is Labor Day.

The pool was originally opened in 1933 and privately owned until the town of Stanley purchased the pool in 1989. The town then designed and remodeled the pool

to open in 1991, and it has been part of the Hawksbill recreation park since.

The Hawksbill pool is open daily to the community for family swim 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. This year, the pool will be offering lap swim on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. This will offer community members a chance to swim laps without other crowds around. Lap swim and family swim will overlap a bit, but staff will monitor the time block and will adjust if necessary.

The Hawksbill pool will be bringing back their night swim from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. some evenings this season. The staff may be looking at extending the night swim times

this year from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. but that too will depend on the crowds, pool staff explained.

This season the pool is offering water aerobics for fitness with Downtown Studios, Unlimited LLC and Hawksbill pool instructor, Pati Heniff. The water aerobics classes will run from June 1 to August 3 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. For all members of Downtown Studios, the class fee is $10, non-members will be charged $15. There is a senior citizen discount available along with available two month class passes for Downtown Studio members and non-members.

Memorial Day honored by Shenandoah community

By GABRIELE PAONESSA Page News and Courier

SHENANDOAH — Early Saturday morning, dogs of all varieties and their owners gathered at the carnival grounds, ready for a very friendly competition.

The Memorial Day Festival Dog Show was started about 20 years ago by Diane Shifflet and another colleague. The event used to be judged like a proper dog show, following A.K.C. guidelines. But all of that changed when Shifflet’s mother began to help with the show.

Patty Whitmer originates from one of oldest families in Shenandoah. Her descendants came from Europe in the 1800s and have owned the same land, Shuler Farm, since their move to North America. Whitmer worked for the United States Postal Service but had to retire after suffering a stroke. Embracing her health struggles, Whitmer decided to dedicate her retirement to helping animals.

By GABRIELE PAONESSA

Page News and Courier

SHENANDOAH — ”Contrary to belief, Memorial Day is not a day for celebration, but one of remembrance,” stated Mayor Clinton O. Lucas, Jr., at one of the Memorial Day events this past weekend.

In remembrance of Memorial Day, the town of Shenandoah offered many things for community members to do over the two-day event.

Friday events

Friday evening started with a steamed shrimp fundraiser by the Shenandoah Fire Company 70, with all the proceeds going back to the fire department to use for maintenance on the equipment. The Shenandoah Moose Lodge #2176 also had a steamed shrimp dinner and offered a karaoke with Robbie Owens Karaoke going late into the night. Out for an evening stroll, community members could admire a number of classic cars during the car cruz-in. The most important event held Friday eve-

ning was the flag retirement ceremony held by Boy Scout Troop 8. Before the ceremony, the Boy Scout Troop took in any donated flags that have been tattered and beaten. They then demonstrated how to properly dispose of a flag.

The troop carefully prepared the donated flags by tearing the stripes away from the union blue and tied them in different bundles. The ceremony is a very respectful event that shows honor for the American flag.

The boy scout troop has been a part of the Shenandoah community since about 85 years ago.

“We lost our scoutmaster Phil Seacrest a year ago and he started the troop in this event about 15 years ago,” stated new scoutmaster Brian Dibb. After losing their scoutmaster of 40 years, this event was even more meaningful to the troop this year.

Saturday events

Saturday morning started early with a variety of dogs that came out to participate in a dog show held in memory of Patty Whitmer,

where all the proceeds were donated to her foundation Page Paws.

Many enjoyed the yard and bake sale at the Shenandoah Pentecostal Holiness Church, the book sale at the library, the craft show and food trucks at the Shenandoah Machine Shop.

In the Shenandoah Landing & River Park, a petting zoo was set up by Grampy’s Village Zoo.

A car, truck, and tractor show was held with music by Mark and Isaac Stroupe, and food provided by the Shenandoah Lions Club and by the Page County Competition Cheer Team. Plus a motorcycle cruz-in was enjoyed on first street.

A memorial walk was held at the VFW Post 8613 Avis O. Comer mid-morning Saturday.

It was a solemn walk as family, friends and the community remembered the 25 soldiers who have been lost. The town has honored these soldiers in the past at the Memorial Day Festival and will continue to do so in the future.

Whitmer always loved animals and began her legacy when she started helping Melissa Bahleda at Partners K9, to train service dogs and rescue animals. Whitmer loved trapping animals to spay, neuter, vaccinate, and either adopt out or release back. This love led Whitmer and a group of like-minded people to found Page Paws. Whitmer also collaborated with two other local animal organizations, I-81 Transport and Dogs Deserve Better Blue Ridge.

In 2019, Whitmer began another health battle when she was diagnosed with a rare form of bladder cancer. Whitmer not only cared for animals but people too. Even when she knew her battle was lost, Whitmer elected to be a case study with certain medications to help researchers, and find a cure for other patients. While in hospice care, the animals she cared for were still on her mind.

Luray, Virginia

• David Junior Buracker, 82, Luray

• Alleta Lam Foster, 86, Luray

A Memorial Day dog show in memory of Patty Whitmer

Gabriele Paonessa/PNC

Memorial Day parade remembrance float.

The online dating game is also a serious business

By ALENA ROTS Page News and Courier Columnist

I recently had lunch with three of my friends. We have been doing this fairly often, and I enjoy it. We catch up on all the news and the gossip. We let each know if we are trying something new or different. It’s a fun time being with friends.

Often I am surprised at some of the things these “over sixty” women come up with but then again I know the feeling. They are bored. I get bored, also, but I would

never, or I don’t think I would, try some of the things they say they did.

Then the one in the group who is so soft spoken, so “lady-like,” spoke up.

“I’ve got to tell you what I tried recently. I got tired of always sitting at home by myself with no one to talk to, so when a neighbor suggested finding a male companion, I was hesitant but I thought, ‘Why not, and I did as she suggested.’”

She went on to say that she went to the computer and searched for dating sites for older people. She filled

out a profile, listing her likes and dislikes, her age, how tall she was and a bunch of questions I had no idea why they were even considered.

The talk that day was about her dating online. I was curious, surprised at what she had done, and I wanted to look into it further.

When I got home, I immediately went to the computer and started hunting for dating websites. They were easy to find. I never knew there were so many. Some were free, some you had to pay a monthly fee and they were not cheap.

First of all, I wanted to find out how many men from 60 to 85 there were using this means of finding companions. Then I went to the women’s side to look for the same thing. I was shocked to see the hundreds of men and women that were actually looking for partners. Some of them, even in their profile, said they were looking for a partner to get married.

Before I had realized it, I had been on the computer five hours reading, looking and hunting for things I had never even imagined. This was a serious business!

Photos From The Community

Left: Although, rained out for opening day, Lake Arrowhead beach is now open for its summer season until Labor Day. Below: Kids gather at Page Public Library for the monthly Keva Building class. Open to kids of all ages, the class allows kids to build structures with blocks to help enrich their learning.

I concentrated on the men. Some wanted to impress. They posted pictures of beautiful cars with their profiles. Others told of the places they wanted to take their companions. Places like around-the-world vacation houses they had, all the things that would be of interest to a lonely lady. The women’s side? There wasn’t as much of the “look what I have” but there was some.

I couldn’t believe it. At this late in life, they were willing to enter into a new life with someone they knew nothing about?

What would I do? If you are so lonely you are looking for someone to spend your time with, get out and look for someone local, someone who other people know about, their past, their behavior and their persona.

And now I have the problem of getting rid of a lot of those dating sites on my email. I have put in an “unsubscribe,” but they won’t give up. And worst of all, I am so curious, or nosy, that I have to read most of them and I find out — they will never change.

Til next time. Be safe.

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 Beahm, 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.

From the Chamber

Chamber Events

Tuesday, June 6, at 10 a.m., is The Legacy Inn Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting. Join us on Tuesday, June 6, at 10 a.m. to celebrate the grand opening of The Legacy Inn, 120 N. Hawksbill Street, Luray. The Legacy Inn is one of the newest lodging options for people coming to stay in Luray-Page County. We’ll be cutting the ribbon at 10 a.m., followed by a chance to meet the owners and tour the Inn. RSVP to events@luraypage. com or 540-743-3915 by Monday, June 5.

Monday, June 12, at 10 a.m., is Domino’s Grand Re-Opening and Ribbon Cutting. Join us on Monday, June 12, at 10 a.m. to celebrate the grand re-opening of Domino’s Pizza at their new location. Domino’s recently moved to 721 East Main Street, Luray, to expand their offerings and space. We’ll be cutting the ribbon at 10 a.m., followed by a chance to explore their new location. RSVP to events@luraypage.com or 540-743-3915 by Friday, June 9.

See CHAMBER , Page A3

Reunions

Page County High School Class of 1978 will hold its 45-year reunion on Saturday, June 10, at Stanley Fire Hall. Social hour is 5 p.m. to

6 p.m. and dinner will start at 6 p.m. Cost is $20.00 per person. For more information please call Teena Comer 540-742-1250.

Gallery Information

Art in the Community

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

Currently open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 12 p .m.-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.

June 2

Friday Night Music with Greg Eppard & Friends to be held at Jollett Bible Mission, 4431 Jollett Road, Elkton, VA 22827 starting at 7 p.m. Free with refreshments served after. For more information contact Eunice Lam at 540-298-2112.

June 3

Juanita Phillips to perform at Blue Ridge Pentecostal Church, 2767

Warehouse Art Gallery, 3054 US Hwy 21 West, Luray 22835, lurayart@ gmail.com, 540-742-3620. Opening in May.

Artwork at the Artisans

Great selection of paintings by Wes & Eileen Porter, Jean Moyer, Gary Saylor, KC Werner & five other regional, & national artists.

Community Events

Dovel Hollow Road, Stanley, VA 22851, staring at 7 p.m. Free admission. For more information contact Pastor Jack Campbell Singer at 540-778-3941.

Annual yard sale to be held at Christ Episcopal Church Parish Hall, 16 Amiss Avenue, Luray, VA 22835, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Chicken BBQ $6 per half. All profits are donated 100% to local charities.

Farmers market story time to be held at Daughter of the Stars Farm-

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.

ers Market, Big Gem Park, 736 4th Street, Shenandoah, VA 22849, from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Free to listen to stories and make a bookmark!

June 8

Book sale to be held at Page Public Library, 100 Zerkel Street, Luray, VA 22835 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. All proceeds will go back to the library.

See EVENTS, Page A6

Ongoing Community Events

Ukrainian soldiers learning English

p.m.; Shenandoah Community Li-

,

Photos by Gabriele Paonessa / PNC

To sprawl or not to sprawl, that is a good question

By PAUL SEBASTIAN Page News and Courier Columnist

This week, the town of Luray released on its website the results of the 2023 Community Survey. For those who don’t know — and it seems to be quite a few of you, since only 136 respondents submitted their opinions — the town of Luray asked residents and businesses to provide feedback on the town and its services through a survey posted on its website. Many town services met or exceeded expectations, particularly the town’s parks and the greenway. Town safety also scored highly, though some respondents did highlight

the ever-present and difficult-to-eradicate drug issue.

When the questionnaire turned to the more personal side of living in Luray, 83% of respondents had positive overall feelings for the town as a place to live. But in this category, many responses were mixed at best. The worst scores were given to the lack of job opportunities, housing options and shopping options. Reading the comments for this section reveals a fundamental tension facing Luray specifically and Page County in general.

To understand this tension, one only has to drive to Walmart — or rather just behind Walmart, where

Norther Virginia-style townhomes are even now being built. As many respondents noted in their comments to the survey, many homes in the county are being converted into Airbnbs or other types of short-term rentals, which is great for the county’s tax revenue and tourist industry. But it also means that many citizens of the county can no longer afford the houses that do go on the market.

These townhomes might be the only affordable option for housing for many Page County citizens, and they provide more residents per acre than a single-family home otherwise would.

On the other hand, many

respondents to the survey complained — rightly in my opinion — about the sprawl townhomes like those next to Walmart represent. These townhomes are the uninspired, cookie-cutter townhomes that line I-66 and Northern Virginia’s suburbs. But now they are sprouting up around Harrisonburg, Front Royal, Winchester and other towns and cities in the Valley. For many, they are the embodiment of the sprawl that a small, close-knit town like Luray is meant to be the antithesis.

I fled Northern Virginia myself to escape the sprawl — not to mention the sight of those townhouses — and to have some land to keep my horses. I doubt I’m alone

Letter to the Editor Editor’s Note

It has come to my attention that drag shows and “pride” events have arrived in Page County. Maybe I don’t get out enough, but I can’t recall seeing any ‘drag queens’ out and about here.

Who, exactly, are these events being marketed to?

One “pride” event is taking place at a local ranch, advertising kid-friendly activities along with alcohol availability (presumably for adults). The ad also promotes “making a positive statement in

Page County.” My burning question is “What sort of image is Page trying to project to the general public to attract tourists and visitors?”

Do we want to be seen as a family-friendly family vacation destination, or a showcase for the mental illness displayed by maybe 5% of the population at large? I’d bet that for every alphabet soup social justice “tourist,” we will lose considerably more potential visitors who do not want their chil-

dren subjected to this sort of “entertainment environment.” Normalizing this kind of behavior is pandering to a small segment of people whose values are not aligned with the population at large. Just my two cents worth, adjusted for inflation.

Riley Browne Unincorperated area of Page County

The Page News and Courier still runs letters to the editor and would love to hear from the community.

To submit a letter, please, email it to editor@ pagenewspaper.com or mail a letter to:

Page News and Courier

C/O Daily News-Record

231 S. Liberty St. Harrisonburg, Va. 22803

when I say I hope I never see Luray turn into another Front Royal, let alone another Fairfax County.

Nevertheless, people need affordable homes. Perhaps those townhomes will provide that. Perhaps those townhomes, and other sprawl-like housing, will be that affordable option for young families who will have the option to stay in town rather than move far away to Harrisonburg or Front Royal. People are always more important than a pretty view or an ideal.

While I can reconcile myself to the eye-sore townhouses, what are harder to abide are the empty shops in downtown Luray and Stanley. How nice would it be to have more afford -

able restaurant options that cater to locals instead of tourists? This is definitely something the town governments can tackle through tax abatement and other incentives. As many respondents in the survey noted, Luray is excellent at catering to tourists. Perhaps the town could use the same tools to cater to those who live here fulltime?

What are your opinions about sprawl? What are the biggest challenges facing the county that you’d like to see the town address? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Email me at paul.sebastian10@protonmail.com.

Paul Sebastian is a local volunteer fire fighter in Page County and a former police officer.

Chamber FROM PAGE A2

Featured Businesses

Amanda Petty Homes with Re/Max Gateway, Luray, is a local real estate agent. Amanda is your devoted advisor, your skilled negotiator, your proficient house — hunter and your neighborhood consultant You can learn more about Amanda by visiting http:// www.amandapettyhomes. com, emailing amandapettyhomes@gmail.com,

The Stanley Volunteer Fire Department and the Luray Boy Scout Troop #100 would like to recognize and thank the following businesses for their support for our Annual Trout Fishing Tournament on April 29th, 2023.

or calling 540-860-0024. Dan’s Steak House, 8512 US. Highway 211 West, Luray, is a local restaurant. They have a wide variety of menu options to choose from, offer dine-in and take-out options, and is famous for their BBQ and steaks. You can find their menu and learn more about them by visiting https:// www.danssteakhouseluray.com/, emailing leopardhound@gmail.com, or calling 540-810-1818.

The Event was on the Hawksbill Creek along the Hawksbill Greenway. We look forward to having the event again next year and with your continued support we can make the event even bigger and better.

Aaron Cubbage For Sheriff

Advance Auto Parts

Alyson’s Cut-N-Hair Anonymous

Anthony’s Pizza

Applebee’s

Atkins Auto Deals, LLC

Auto Center, Front Royal

Autobody Pro Shop Inc.

Autodealz

Autozone

Beahm Boys Trucking, LLC

Bennett & Butler Inc.

Big Red Mowing

Blue Ridge lnsulation, LLC

Blue Ridge Outdoors Supplies, LLC

Blueridge Powersports

Bob Huff/Valley Equipment

Burner Electrical Services Inc.

C. Grayson Markowitz

Cason’s Chiropractic

Christie Bosley Baker

Ciro’s Pizza

CMA’s Valley Dealership

Core & Main-Rodney Ring

Culligan of Front Royal Cutting Edge, LLC

Dean Home Center

Dean Horne Improvement Delaware North

Dick Myers Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

DR’s Quick Stop

DTS Construction

Fran’s Bookkeeping & Tax Services Inc.

G & L Tree Care Solutions, LLC

G & M Auto Sales Inc.

General Excavating Inc.

Godfather’s Pizza

Grandstaff Insurance, LLC

Hammer Insurance Agency

Hensil Good Paving

Heritage Dedicated Services Inc.

Holtzman’s Oil & Propane

Huffy’s Rollback and Wrecker Service IBR Corporation

IHOP

J & M Auto Parts Inc.

James River Equipment

Jake’s Bait & Tackle

Jeff Shenk “Auctioneer”

Jerry & Nora Dofflemyer

Jordan Hollow Stables, LLC

JR’s Tire Center Inc.

Kite’s Store

Knight & Lucas Construction

L & B Portables Lane Technology Inc.

Lantz Construction Company

LD&B Insurance Agency

Longhorn Steakhouse

Long’s Florist Loose Ends, LLC

Louderback Outdoor Power Equipment Inc.

Lucas Homes, LLC

Luray Car Care, LLC

Luray Zoo

Marlow Ford

Massanutten Resort

Matthews Auto Center Inc.

Mauck Excavating, LLC

Melting Pot Pizza

Mountain View Gun Shop

Mountain View Sheds & Storage

Mrs. B’s Pizza

Myers Ford

N & B Paving, LLC

Noah Turner & Sons Landscaping Inc.

Outback Steakhouse

Page Motor Company Inc.

Partner’s 1st Federal Credit Union Pepsi Pettit’s Paving

Pioneer Bank

Presgraves Taxidermy

R.S. Monger & Sons Inc.

Racey Engineering, PLLC

Rebecca “Becky” Smith for Commissioner of Revenue

Red Lobster Reed’s Tire Center #1

Re-Elect Chad Cubbage for Sheriff

Richard’s Auto Salvage, LLC

Rickard’s Home Rentals, LLC

Ridgeview Moulding & Millwork, LLC

Rinker & Frye Memorials Inc.

Riverhill Sawmill, LLC

River’s Bend Ranch

Robert Jenkins Taxidermy

Roundhead Sportsman Club Inc.

Route II Equipment Sales

SBA Contracting

Schewell’s Home SD Tax & Bookkeeping

Shenandoah Moose Lodge 2176 Shoppers Value Sign Doctor Sales & Service Sir Excellence Auto Body Inc.

Hardware

Sudboss Garage

Texas Roadhouse

The Coffee Shop

The Fly Smith

The Garden Maze

The Home Depot

The Nail Studio

The Red Fox Inn & Tavern

The Scissor’s Edge, LLC

The Storage Place,

LLC

We would also like to say Thanks to Stanley Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary, Town of Luray, Luray Parks and Recreation, Luray Police Department, Teri Beers, Ryan Gaunt, Virginia Department of Wildland Resources and Showalter Designs

This Week in History

Dead Will Live So Long As We Remember, Says Memorial Day Speaker

Editor’s Note: With Memorial Day this past Monday, the Page News and Courier chose to highlight a story from 1955 that touched on this national day or remembrance the members of the U.S. Armed Forces who lost their lives fighting for the U.S. This archived story touches on exactly what Memorial Day is and whom it is for. With the special Page on page A5 for Memorial Day, this story is an extension of that commemoration.

Those who have died will live so long as we remember them, declared Rev Fred E. Dufford, a former Lurat pastor now of Charleston Heights, S.C., at the annual Memorial Day exercises held

Sunday afternoon at the Main Street Baptist Church. A large congregation was on hand for the services which are annually sponsored by the Miller-Campbell-Baker Post No. 22 the American Legion and Comer Jones Post No. 621 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

This story was originally printed in the Page News and Courier June 2, 1955.

The speaker reminded the congregation that it was easy in these days of prosperity to forget the sacrifices and struggles of the past which are responsible for the power and economic ascendancy of this nation today. In order to

properly observe a memorial day “our thoughts must encompass the past, present and future” and we must be ever mindful that the deeds of the past and the hopes of the future are inseparable from the present because “God lives only in the present.”He urged that we be guided in our daily existence by the inspiration of those who made the supreme sacrifice, but, he said, this is not enough. It must be the factor which impels us not only to protect what they have given us but to aspire to the perfection of which the sacrifices of the past make us responsible. “We must die climbing,” he said.

Rev. Dufford was introduced by Mayor H. B. Dyche, a former commander of the 7th district, American Legion, Department of Virginia, who said that Rev. Dufford was one of the most beloved pastors ever to live in Luray. Lloyd Kibler brought greetings from the VFW and legion commander Rober Rothgeb presided. Dr. T. M. Swann gave the invocation and Rev. T. Richardson the benediction.

Special music was given by the Luray High School Glee Club and a male sextette composed of Reed Tate, Chester Pyne, Ben Cullen, Carl Mitman, Paul Black and Arnold Judd.

Mrs. Kirby Heiston led the singing.

Massanutten Regional Library community survey begins June 5

From PNC Staff Reports

Massanutten Regional Library is planning for the future and needs the community’s help, a press release announced.

Join in MRL’s 2023 Strategic Planning process by completing a short community survey and or attending one of our in-person Community Input Meetings held throughout the Shenandoah Valley this summer. Participation through survey or community meetings is anonymous, and your feedback will help MRL leadership prioritize strategic goals and objectives for the next five years and beyond, the press release stated.

The online survey will be live at www. mrlib.org from June 5 – July 31. Printed surveys, in seven different languages, are also available at all MRL branch locations in Bridgewater, Broadway, Elkton, Grottoes, Harrisonburg, Luray, and Shenandoah during this time period, the press release stated.

The public is also invited to attend MRL’s Community Input Meetings,

which will take place from 6 p.m.-8p.m. at the following locations and dates:

• June 6: Grottoes Town Hall: 601 Dogwood Avenue, Grottoes, VA 24441

• June 13: Central Library Meeting

Rooms – Harrisonburg: 174 S. Main St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801

• June 20: Shenandoah Community

Library: 418 S. Third St, Shenandoah, VA 22849

• June 27: Village Library – Broadway: 175 N. Main St, Broadway, VA 22815

• July 11: Virtual meeting– meeting link available under MRL’s event calendar at www.mrlib.org

• July 18: Elkton Community Center: 20593 Blue and Gold Dr, Elkton, VA 22827

• July 25: Page Public Library – Luray: 100 Zerkel Street, Luray VA 22835

• Aug 1: North River Library –Bridgewater: 118 Mt. Crawford Avenue, Bridgewater, VA 22812

Participants in community meetings will learn more about MRL’s Strategic Planning process and will be given the

opportunity to provide feedback on a number of strategic priorities, which will help shape the overall strategic plan. There is no need to register for the Community Input meetings, simply attend the one that suits best, the press release stated.

“Public libraries rely on the feedback of the public to help us serve our communities even better,” stated MRL Director, Zach Elder. “It’s important that we hear from people who use our library branches—but equally as important that we hear from folks who aren’t currently using our libraries—so we can improve our services to better reflect what our patrons and communities need in a regional library system. By inviting the community to help us select our future strategic priorities, MRL can continue to meet its mission of being the ‘welcoming heart of our community where all come to learn, discover, create, and connect.’ We look forward to working with our community on this project and for MRL to grow and evolve with the communities that we serve.”

* In a study to improve hospital design for children, researchers polled 250 kids about their opinions on clowns. The verdict was unanimous: Every single one reported disliking or fearing them. Well, so do some adults.

* A Texas woman named Verda Byrd, adopted by a Black family in the 1940s, only discovered she was white after finding her adoption papers in 2013.

* In 1987, a barge left New York for North Carolina with a whopping 3,168 tons of trash on board. North Carolina didn’t want it either, so the barge traveled for seven long months trying (and failing) to find someone to take it, launching a national conversation on the subject of landfills and recycling.

* The town of Dull in Scotland has been twinned with the town of Boring, Oregon, since 2012.

* Because goats can eat poison ivy with no ill effects, some farmers rent out the animals to clear parks, golf courses and historical sites without having to use chemicals or herbicides.

* A nuclear bomb is stuck somewhere in the ice on the coast of Greenland.

* Retired NFL wide receiver Steve Smith left his cleats on the field after every game to raise awareness of homeless people who don’t have shoes.

* In 1993, a Missouri man purposely damaged a levee on the Mississippi River to delay his wife coming home from work so he could party. The plan spectacularly backfired when the river flooded 14,000 acres, leading to his arrest and conviction for causing a catastrophe and a life sentence in prison.

* There are cases of identical twins in which only one is born with Down syndrome. ***

Thought for the Day: “Pay no attention to what the critics say. A statue has never been erected in honor of a critic.” -Jean

Sibelius

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

2. From Luke 8:2, how many demons did Mary Magdalene have in her? 1, 3, 5, 7

3. Who wrote in Proverbs 13:24, “He that spareth his rod hatest his son”? David, Solomon, Job, Ruth

4. From Judges 13-16, who was the strongest man on earth? Hercules, Samson, Obadiah, Timothy

5. During the great flood, how many humans were on the ark? 2, 4, 6, 8

6. In Psalms 68:5, who is “father to the fatherless”? Oneself, Heaven, Fool, God

ANSWERS: 1) Old, 2) 7, 3) Solomon, 4) Samson, 5) 8 (Gen. 7:13), 6) God

COMMEMORATING MEMORIAL DAY

Gabriele Paonessa / PNC

Students that are part of the Panther Athletics carried the American flag in the Memorial Day parade in the town of Shenandoah.

Gabriele Paonessa / PNC

Troop

retires

tattered flags in a retirement ceremony.

Contributed Photo by Brian Bosley

Sunday May 27, members and their families of the Stanley Masonic lodge and Magnetic Lodge #184, gathered to place flags on the graves of servicemen for Memorial Day. Members present included Brian Bosley and Page County Sheriff Chad Cubbage. “This is the first year the Lodge has taken part in doing this, and I am so glad we did,” Brian Bosley stated. “It was an honor to place a flag on the grave of my uncle who served in Vietnam,” Sheriff Cubbage followed up.

Gabriele Paonessa / PNC

The Twirling Medallion Majorette and Drum Corp show off their skills in the Memorial Day Parade.

Gabriele Paonessa / PNC Shenandoah Fire Department appeared in the Memorial Day Parade.

Gabriele Paonessa / PNC

Guest speaker, Tom Bauserman at the VFW Post 8613 Memorial Day service.

Park to host public meeting, discuss backcountry camping permits

From PNC Staff Reports

Shenandoah National Park will host a virtual public meeting June 6, at 7 p.m. to provide information about the implementation of a new backcountry camping permitting system, the park accounced in a press release. During the upcoming

meeting, there will be an opportunity for the public to ask questions about the new system. Following the meeting, a public comment portal will be available for 30 days and the public is invited to provide written input, the release stated. The establishment of a new online permitting

system will allow the park to track and understand backcountry use to ensure the protection of resources and provide an improved visitor experience. The feebased online registration system through recreation. gov will allow users to plan their trip in advance with current information us -

ing a reliable system. The permit will have an associated fee that will provide financial support for management of the park’s backcountry. Shenandoah has one of the largest backcountry permitting programs in the national park system, and most of these programs require

fees. Backcountry, or “wilderness camping” refers to camping in remote areas of the park rather than in developed campgrounds with amenities, the release explained.

Park managers will evaluate the public comments and develop a plan for implementation. This

system will be implemented in 2024, and additional details will be provided as the park moves forward, the release stated. For information on how to comment and to get a link to attend June 6th’s public meeting, please visit our website: www.nps.gov/ shen.

DMV: Annual Click It or Ticket campaign to increase Virginia seat belt use

From PNC Staff Reports

RICHMOND — The Department of Motor Vehicles and AAA Mid-Atlantic joins Virginia’s first responders, local law enforcement and Virginia State Police to focus on saving lives through increased seat belt use by participating in the national Click It or Ticket campaign through June 4, the DMV announced in a press release.

This annual campaign takes place during the Memorial Day holiday, one of the year’s busiest and deadliest travel weekends.

Today, DMV partnered with the Virginia State Police, Henrico County Police Department and AAA Mid-Atlantic to start off the Click It or Ticket campaign with a news conference, the release stated.

Events FROM PAGE A2

June 9

Annual yard sale to be held at Seventh Day Adventist Church and School, 118 Church Avenue, Stanley, VA 22851, starting at 8 a.m.

Book sale to be held at Page Public Library, 100

AAA is predicting more than 42 million people will be traveling nationwide for the long Memorial Day weekend. That’s just 1% shy of the holiday travel numbers from the prepandemic days of 2019. Nearly 90% of all travelers, or about 37 million people, will be on the roads. Here in the Commonwealth, 1.16 million Virginians will be traveling, with more than one million of them predicted to be hitting the roads, the release stated.

“The roads of Virginia will be very busy this weekend with holiday travelers, and that means there’s a greater potential for crashes,” says Morgan Dean, AAA Mid-Atlantic spokesperson. “We want everyone to be safe. We

Zerkel Street, Luray, VA 22835 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. All proceeds will go back to the library.

June 10 Garden Lover’s Day to be held at Birdsong Pleasure Garden, 1414 Longs Road, Luray, VA 22835, from

encourage drivers to limit distractions, obey the speed limit, and make sure they buckle up everyone in the vehicle before they set out on that Great American Road Trip.”

More than 18% of Virginians still don’t wear their seat belt, according to the state’s most recent seat belt survey. In Virginia last year, there were 5,427 unrestrained people involved in crashes, 3,702 unrestrained injuries, and 375 deaths involving unrestrained people, the release stated.

Last year, approximately one of every two crash fatalities in Virginia involved occupants who did not wear a seat belt. People aged 21-30 made up 68% of unrestrained fatalities and the highest number of un-

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $12, cash or check only. For more information contact 540-743-9389 or www.birdsongpleasuregarden.info.

All proceeds benefit local high schools Environmental Scholarship, maintenance of the Old County Cemeter y, and other local projects.

restrained fatalities happened between midnight and 3 a .m. (70%), the release stated.

“These numbers mean thousands of Virginians still choose not to make the simple, safe choice of buckling up as their best defense against a reckless, impaired or distracted driver,” says DMV Commissioner Gerald Lackey, the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “By participating in Click It or Ticket, we are raising awareness and educating Virginians on the importance of always wearing a seat belt, every time.”

Law enforcement will support DMV’s seat belt awareness messaging by conducting high visibility enforcement along busy roads and highways to

June 17

Colonial Trades Fair to be held at Fort Harrison, 335 Main Street, Dayton, VA 22821, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free admission. For more information contact Pat Early at 540-234-0131 or fortharrisonva@gmail.com. Learn how 18th Century colonial trades

prevent avoidable crashes and save lives, the release stated.

“Buckling up is not merely a legal obligation,” said Colonel Gary T. Settle, Virginia State Police Superintendent. “Wearing a seat belt is an act of self-preservation. Moreover, the impact of wearing seat belts extends beyond our own lives. It sets an example for others, especially our young people who are observing our behaviors and learning from our actions. Simply click it and avoid the ticket.”

“Speeding is one of top traffic complaints Henrico Police receives, and oftentimes it leads to deadly consequences when our drivers and passengers are not properly restrained,” said Henrico County Chief of

contributed to the settlement of the Shenandoah Valley.

June 25

Farm Olympics plus a “Sweets Competition” to be held at Wisteria Farm and Vineyard, 1126 Marksville Road, Stanley, VA 22851, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets

Memorial FROM PAGE A1

The memorial walk was followed by a memorial service. Mayor Clinton Lucas, Jr., presents this service every year which honors active duty hometown Virginia military members who have passed away. The Boy Scout Troop 8 was involved in the service as they were there to post the colors and one specific troop member was asked to recite “Ragged Old Flag” by Johnny Cash.

The service is filled with meaningful music of remembrance, guest speakers and tributes to those the community has lost.

Police Eric D. English. “In 2022, the metro-Richmond area saw 55 fatal crashes where occupants were not wearing seat belts. To remedy this trend, it takes not only police enforcement, but an overall community effort.”

“DMV partners with law enforcement agencies, nonprofits and other highway safety advocates to change behaviors and prevent needless tragedies from happening on Virginia’s roadways,” said DMV Highway Safety Office Director John Saunders. “Buckling up is the one lifesaving action you can take to significantly increase your odds of surviving a crash. Your life matters. Please make it click and remind your loved ones to do the same.”

are $5 per person, kids under 5 years are free. All proceeds from the event go back to Every Child Early Learning Center. For free publication of community event notifications, send information to community@pagenewspaper. com.

soil with 368 just in Flanders Field. Lucas had a wreath made with 368 poppies representing those in Flanders Field, and during the service any veteran in attendance was invited to salute the wreath made in honor of those lost.

Dog FROM PAGE A1

“Three days before mom passed, she was signing paperwork for a dog to be neutered that was adopted and ready to go home to his new family”, stated Shifflet as she recalled the memory of her mother.

Whitmer became the dog show organizer the last eight years and that is when things changed. Whitmer believed every dog should be able to get the chance to participate, rescue or purebred.

“It’s all about having fun with your dog”, stated Shifflet, “that’s how mom

The Stanley Stingrays swim team will call the Hawksbill pool home for a few weeks as they hold their team practices, Mondays through Thursday from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The team practices start May 30 and will end July 6. The Hawksbill pool will also be holding “Movie Night” on July 15, showing “The Goonies.” That event will start at 9:30 p.m. and is sponsored by P.A.C.A. On August 1, from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., the Hawksbill recreation park will be hosting

wanted it, so that’s what we did.”

The categories were changed to best trick, look alike, and best patriot dress in honor of the memorial day holiday.

This year, a year and a half after Whitmer lost her battle with cancer, all of the awards were given out in memory of her. There were first, second and third place winners for each category, then a best in show winner from the top winners in the other three categories. Any dog show participant was invited to walk in the parade with the dog show’s float if they wished.

“National Night Out”.

The pool will be open late that evening to co-host the event.

“Our National Night Out event is huge and we are happy to have the pool open late as part of that evening”, stated Teri Beers, the town of Stanley Parks and Recreation Director.

It would seem the Hawksbill pool’s schedule is quite full for the season, but community members can also rent the pool out for private pool parties and other events. Call to book or get more information at 540-778-3454.

A watering station was provided for dogs and their owners, along with a pavilion to provide shade. This year’s judges included: Becky Smith, Kim Bowmaster, and Ann Reed. All ladies were close dear friends of Whitmer. Pet photos were taken by Sharon Printz. All the pro -

ceeds from this event were donated to Page Paws in memory of Patty Whitmer. By late morning, the dog show winners were awarded and they all proudly walked around the judging ring with wagging tails as their owners smiled, handing them well deserved treats.

Alleta Lam Foster

21, 2022.

Alleta was employed at Hardee's for several years and also worked as a housekeeper for many families.

“Poppies are associated with Memorial Day, so it was fitting to make a wreath with them,” stated Lucas

When a soldier passes in battle, the family has a choice to bring them home or to bury them on foreign soil. There are 26 permanent cemeteries on foreign

In the afternoon, a children’s parade commenced where the kids took to the walking track decked out in their most patriotic finery. The kids also decorated their bikes, wagons, strollers and electric vehicles. The old-fashioned-style parade ended the weekend festival and was one every community member had been looking forward to. The parade included all the classics like floats, candies, marching band and sirens from the first responders. Fun was had by all, but the community noted that fun is allowed because of the freedoms fought for by the soldiers who are no longer here.

David Junior Buracker

Alleta Lam Foster, 86, of Luray, passed away on Sunday, May 21, 2023, at Skyview Springs Nursing and Rehab.

She was born on December 1, 1936, and was a daughter of the late Ramond and Dinah Lam.

In 1957, she married Lewis E. Foster, who died on May

She is survived by two children, Lewis Clayton Foster and wife Dorothy, and Laverne Foster, all of Luray; two brothers, Bruce and Wade Lam; two sisters, Juanita Lawrence and Sharon Foster; four grandchildren, Ashley Hoak, Felicia McDaniel, Cheslynn Graves and Courtney FosterBeales; six greatgrandchildren, Haley Spain, Emma Clark, Harper and Hannah McDaniel, and Lydia and Lincoln Graves. She was preceded in death by a brother, Richard Lam.

A private graveside service will be conducted at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, May 24, at the Mount Zion Cemetery by Chad Lam and Pastor Jeff Lucas.

David Junior Buracker, 82, of Luray, passed away on Wednesday, May 17, 2023.

He was born on May 27, 1940, in Madison and was a son of the late David Buracker and Versie Cave Buracker.

David was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps.

On March 17, 1971, he married Esther Naomi Alger Buracker, who died on September 23, 2009.

He is survived by his companion, Bonnie Breeden of Luray; a stepson, Robert Leroy Alger of Luray; and John Robert Alger Jr. of Shenandoah, whom he raised; as well as extended family. He was preceded in death by a stepson, John Robert Alger Sr.; five sisters, Fannie Brown, Betty Buracker, Mattie Cahoon, Geneva Lucas and Mazzie Turner; and four brothers, Thomas, Charles, Roy and Virgil Buracker.

A celebration of life was held from 12 noon - 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 28, at Lake Arrowhead in Luray.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hawksbill Greenway Foundation, Lake Arrowhead, 45 E. Main St., Luray, Va. 22835; or to Intrepid Hospice, 427 Lee Jackson Highway A-3, Staunton, Va. 24401.

Contributed Photo by Sharon Printz

Dog show contestants in the ring compete for best trick, look a like, most patriotic dress, and best in show.

Pool FROM PAGE A1

TUNED IN TO THE SPIRIT

Driving down the highway, listening to our favorite station, we begin to hear static and the echo of another station in the background. Fine tuning is to no avail, we have traveled out of range of the frequency. Sometimes we stray in our spiritual lives in much the same way, we travel through our busy days until we may realize that we are not quite ourselves…we’ve gotten out of tune. Our spirit needs to get back to God’s frequency. Romans 12:2 advises, “…be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is, his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Get back to your House of Worship and into the range of the Holy Spirit. Get tuned in to God.

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

Big Spring Mennonite Church www.bigspringmennonite.org

.Pastor Pearl Hartman: 540-217-0653.

Blue Ridge Pentecostal Church, Stanley, Wednesday and Saturday services 7 p.m. and 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 540-244-9267.

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.

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

Luray Church of the Brethren, Sunday services 9:45 a.m. For more information, contact the church at 540-743-5563 or email LurayBrethren@gmail.com.

Luray United Methodist Church, contemporary service 8:30 a.m. with traditional Sunday worship at 11 a.m. New Direction Community Church, 52 Cave St., Luray, Sunday worship 10 a.m. For more information, contact 540-8432558 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 info, contact 540-560-9422.

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.

EMU Singers Build Bonds Through Songs

By RHYS MCCLELLAND

For The Page News and Courier

Seventeen students of the Eastern Mennonite University Chamber Singers have just returned home from an intensive two-week tour of European cities, sharing a message of unity and peace through a varied program of song.

Starting May 9 in Amsterdam and traveling through the Netherlands, France, and Germany, the tour, titled “Local and Global: Songs of Peace and Justice,” saw the EMU Chamber Singers presenting a program that contained both sacred and secular pieces, in a range of spaces from Mennonite churches, cathedrals and even impromptu outdoor performances.

The tour created unique opportunities for students to experience singing in old European churches in historically Mennonite areas, including a visit to Friesland in the Netherlands, the birthplace of Menno Simons himself. The musical history embedded in the tour was also a significant experience for the students, allowing them to explore the music halls of Dresden and Munich, as well as singing in Leipzig where Bach worked. Singing in these spaces offered the students the experience of a quality of natural acoustic not experienced often by singers.

Personal connections with people and heritage were also an important aspect of the tour, with students often staying with host families and even connecting with their own family lineage by visiting historic Mennonite locations where their ancestors originated.

The tour was facilitated, programmed, and directed by assistant professor of Eastern Mennonite University Orchestra and Choirs Benjamin Bergey who also serves as assistant conductor for the Shenandoah Valley Bach Festival and advisor of the new music and peace-building major at EMU.

“For me, it was a wonderful experience. I have been to many of these places before on various tours and travels of my own, so it was a joy to reconnect, explore new things, and lead a group through these amazing historic and modern locations full of hospitality and love,” Bergey said.

While the experience of singing in such beautifully constructed and historic locations was expected, it was the unexpected moments of the tour that create truly extraordinary memories for this group of young artists.

“Our bike tour guide asked us to sing in an enclosed Munich square because it has great acoustics,” said Bergey, who relayed another profound and intimate moment of performance in Germany at a German laundromat. “A French family asked us to sing a song while we were waiting for clothes to wash.”

The mission of Eastern Mennonite University to “serve and lead in a global context” was core to the principles of the international tour, something that the chamber singers have not done since singing in Cuba around 20 years ago. Additionally, the university holds in its mission the goal of cross-cultural encounters, which is summed up in another memory from the tour.

Ongoing FROM PAGE A2

• Military Manuals

• First Aid/Paramedic Manuals

• World War ll History (European Theater)

• Books by Dr. Seuss

• “Hand, Hand, Fingers, Thumb” by Al Perkins (to read to children)

Massanutten Regional Library

The free Summer Reading Program for Massanutten Regional Library kicks off on June 5th and runs through July 31st. Themed “All Together Now, the goal is to encourage thousands of Valley residents to read alongside MRL this summer. Local prizes will be given for every 2 hours of reading. They will receive an extra prize pack upon completion of 10 hours of reading at which point they can enter their names into a drawing for extra prizes, if they continue to log their minutes. Participants may sign up for free at mrlib.org/srp and log their reading through READsquared, an online tracking program which also includes a free app.

Shenandoah Community Library activities

The Shenandoah Community Library offers “Fantastic Family Fun” beginning at 11 a.m. every Tuesday, with free story time and crafts for children of all ages. The event is also held at 10 a.m. every Monday at the Page Public Library in Luray. “Tremendous Toddlers” is held every Thursday from 10:30 a.m.–11 a.m. at the Page Public Library. This activity is for 2–3 year olds and their caregivers. The story time includes nursery rhymes, songs and crafts designed to strengthen early literacy development.

Kibler Library hours

The Kibler Library in Stanley is open from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays, from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. on Tuesdays, and from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. on Thursdays. The “Time for Rhythm and Rhyme” children’s program is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on the first and third Tuesday of every month. Story time is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. each Wednesday, with a different program each week. Curbside service is available by calling ahead at 540-778-1605. For more information, patrons may check out www.kiblerlibrary.org.

Page Library programs

The Page Public Library in Luray has planned several activities for patrons over the next few months. A series of gardening pro-

grams for young patrons are scheduled from 4 p.m.-5 p.m. on the third Monday of each month, now through Oct. 16. Each “From Seed to Harvest” program will cover a different topic to introduce children and parents to the world of gardening.

Main Street Baptist Church

Vacation Bible School

Theme: TWIST and TURNS! June 19-23, 2023 from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Ages: 3 years-8th Grade. It’s time to level up “Vacation Bible School”. Spin the spinner, beat the clock, skip ahead, level up, and play to win! You’ll need to bring your A-game for this VBS. Twists & Turns is a fantastical celebration of games of all kinds. From classic tabletop games to video games and more, kids will play their way through V.B.S. while learning that Jesus guides them through all the twists and turns of their lives. They’ll find that even when they mess up it’s never “game over.” Please contact the church at 743-5834 for more info!

Free Day Camp Free day camp with lunch provided at Mount Carmel Baptist Church, 124 Virginia Ave., Luray, VA on July 5, 6, and 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information contact Mark Redka at 724-833-4335 or marknbert@gmail.com

The Rec Center Activities

The Rec Center, 630 W. Main St., Luray, offers a variety of activities each week. The fitness program NWF is held from 4:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Yoga is scheduled from 4:30 p.m.–6 p.m. on Thursdays. For area youth, the 2G guide and grow program is held from 4:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m. Mondays and Fridays; “Looney For Legos”

4 p.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays; Youth

Leadership from 4:30 p.m.5:30 p.m. on Thursdays; and Mentorship from 4:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays. Under the leadership of PACA and Choices, crafts and activities are offered from 4:30 p.m.–5:30 p.m. on Wednesdays. For more information, contact the center at 540-660-0501. The Rec is always in need of volunteers to help at the center. For more information, email Dmendez@livinglegacyluray. org.

Outdoor Movie Night

The town of Shenandoah will have free outdoor movie nights this summer on First Street starting at 8:30 p.m. on the lot next to 442 First Street, Shenandoah, VA 22849. The following films will be shown: Luca on June 2 (rain date June 30) spon-

sored by the town of Shenandoah Museum and Welcome Center, Trolls on July 21 (rain date July 28) sponsored by Racey Engineering, and Encanto on August 18 (rain date August 25) sponsored by PACA. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Popcorn and drinks provided while supplies last.

Movies on Main

The Page Theater in Luray will be offering free movies as part of “Movies on Main.” Free popcorn will also be provided for the first 25 people. Movies will be shown at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays as follows: June 13, July 11, Aug. 8, Sept. 12, Oct. 10, Nov. 7 and Dec. 12.

Trackside Theater Play

Trackside Theater presents the play LITTLE WOMEN, June 9 and 10 at 7:30 p .m., June 11 at 3:00 p.m., June 16 and 17 at 7:30 p.m., and June 18 at 3:00 p.m. Ticket prices are $15 for adults and $10 for students. Tickets are available online at tracksidetheater.org and at the door.

Twirling Medallions

Auditions

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 540-820-1930.

Clogging performances

The Shenandoah Valley Cloggers will be performing at Skyline Resort for 2023 on a new night. Performances are planned from 7:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m. on Thursdays as follows: June 8, July 13, Aug. 10, Sept. 7, Oct. 5, Oct. 12, Oct. 19, Oct. 26, Nov. 2 and Nov. 9. Shows are free and open to the public.

Gardening advice, plant clinics, and free garden

talks

The Northern Shenandoah Valley Master Gardener Association will hold free plant clinics from 10 a.m.–1 p.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 dis-

ease; to identify a plant, bug or weed; or to get planting or landscaping advice. The plant clinic schedule includes: 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. Residents with questions may also contact the Virginia Cooperative Extension Service in Stanley at 540-778-5794.

Stars Farmer’s Market

Daughter of the Stars Farmer’s Market will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Luray-Page County Chamber of Commerce 18 Campbell Street, Luray, VA 22835 on the third Saturdays of the month from June to November which include: June 3, June 17, July 15, August 19, September 16, October 21, and November 18.

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 p.m.-9 p.m. as follows: 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 information, contact 540-742-1141.

Free concerts

Cooter’s in Luray will hold free drive-in concerts on Saturdays from 1 p.m.–3 p.m. with Ben “Cooter” Jones and the Cooter’s Garage. For more information, contact 540-8432517, visit them on Facebook or email info@cootersplace. com.

SNP Status Alerts

Subscribers to SHENALERTS will get emergency notifications and significant event texts. These alerts will include hazardous situations, road closures on Skyline Drive, wildland fires and other significant incidents that may affect visitors’ time in Shenandoah National Park. To subscribe, text SHENALERTS to 888777. Subscribers may opt in and out at any time. No subscriber

information is retained and text content will be specific to the channel they choose. Skyline Drive status can also be tracked via the park Facebook and Twitter feeds, or by calling 540-999-3500, option 1, option 1. A separate information channel has been established that allows subscribers to track campground availability. To subscribe, text SHENCAMP to 888777. On weekends, subscribers will receive an early afternoon text about the number of available campsites at each campground. An additional text will be sent when each campground fills. Subscribers may opt in and out at any time.

‘Call-Care’ program

The Luray Police Department offers a “Call-Care” program for handicapped or elderly citizens. Registered citizens will receive regular telephone calls from the police department to check on their well-being. Luray citizens may print the application to apply for this service. To apply, applications should be submitted to the Luray Police Department at: 45 East Main St., P.O. Box 629, Luray, Va. 22835.

Veterans van The Veterans Transportation Network (VTN) van travels to the Martinsburg, VA Center weekly, offering transportation to veterans with scheduled morning appointments. VTN is in need for volunteer drivers to transport area veterans. Persons interested in volunteering are asked to contact the Transportation Office at 304-2630811, ext. 3732, or 1-800-8173807, ext. 3732.

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.

Mementos needed

The Trustees of the Mauck Meeting House are in need of donations, pictures, mementos and any memories of Mauck Meeting House. This information will be used to update and replace the interpretive marker in front of the building.

All pictures and mementos will be noted and returned to the sender. Items may be sent to: Mauck Meeting House, in care of Cathy Mauck, 2552 Old Forge Rd., Luray, Va. 22835, or call 540742-3905.

Tax Help

TaxAide offers free tax preparation for low-and-moderate income taxpayers of all ages. All volunteers are certified by the IRS. 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. For free publication of ongoing event notifications, send information to community@ pagenewspaper.com.

Prep Baseball

Panthers down Mountain View, advance to semifinals

By JOHN BREEDEN

For The Page News and Courier

Page County punched its ticket to the Region 2B baseball semifinals after a solid rout Monday. Highlighted by a four-run third inning, the Panthers took care of business and claimed an 8-3 victory over Mountain View in the

regional quarterfinals Monday at PCHS.

Page County head coach Wayne Comer said it’s been an up and down year for their club, but they didn’t leave any stone unturned Monday.

“We came out to win [Monday],” Comer said. “They gave us 100 percent and did a lot of things right.”

Eagles win Bull Run title in walk-off fashion

By CODY ELLIOTT

For The Page News and Courier

With the bases loaded and no outs on the board, all eyes were on Ryan Williams.

And much like he often has throughout his East Rockingham career, he came through.

Williams, a junior shortstop, drew a bases-loaded walk in the bottom of the seventh to bring home senior outfielder Wyatt Baker and give second-seeded East Rockingham a wild 2-1 victory over fourth-seeded rival Page County in the Bull Run District baseball title game on Thursday at home.

The only other runs in the game all came in the opening frame after Panthers senior outfielder Gunnar Strickler scored on a passed ball in the top half of the first, and the Eagles responded when sophomore infielder Landon Bruce’s sac fly scored sophomore Bentley Hensley in the same frame.

From there, it became a pitcher’s duel with the senior duo of Dylan Hensley and Baker stepping up for East Rockingham, while sophomore Tyler Shifflett impressed most of the evening for Page County.

It wasn’t until the seventh that magic happened for the Eagles, when Baker led off the seventh with a single, followed by an infield error that allowed sophomore third baseman Grason Shifflett to get on base and an intentional walk to center fielder Ben Dinkel to load up the bases for Williams.

Dylan Hensley tossed four innings for East Rock, giving up one unearned run on three hits and two walks while striking out six before Baker shut things down with three shutout innings of his own.

Baker allowed just one hit and one walk while striking out three for the Eagles and also had a hit.

Dylan Hensley, Shifflett, and sophomore infielder William Eppard all added one hit apiece for ERHS.

Senior catcher Everett Foltz was 2-for-3 with a double for the Panthers, while Shifflett and senior center fielder Hayden Plum each had a hit. Shifflett also struck out four in a complete game.

East Rockingham (19-4) will serve as the No. 3 seed in the Region 2B tournament and hosts a familiar opponent in sixth-seeded Luray on Monday at 12 p.m. The Bulldogs defeated the Eagles 8-0 on May 2 in Elkton. That was the first district loss of the season for East Rock, which won the first meeting 9-6.

As for Page (10-13), it will be the No. 4 seed and host No. 5 Mountain View on Monday at 4 p.m.

Page County’s three senior outfielders contributed in a big way to Monday’s win. Right fielder Gunner Strickler was 1-for-4 with a single and an RBI.

Strickler said postgame that they’ll be ready for anything that comes their way in the postseason, and believes they’re playing at their full potential.

“We’re playing as a team right now, and it’s the best ball we’ve been playing all year,” Strickler said.

Strickler along with fellow senior outfielders Hayden Plum and Jacob Williams refer to themselves as the “No Fly Zone.” Plum, who nailed two hits Monday, said they call themselves that for a

reason, as they trust each other to make plays when it comes to them.

“It’s a great feeling to have my boys out there,” Plum said. “If a ball goes up, I know one of us is going to catch it, so it’s a great feeling.”

Gaskins, Page County dominant in rout of Mountaineers

By JOHN BREEDEN

For The Page News and Courier

SHENANDOAH — If there was any doubt

Page County would make noise in the postseason, that was removed Monday.

Two massive six-run innings in the second and the fourth propelled the top-seeded Panthers to a five-inning 12-0 shutout of No.

8 Madison County in the Region 2B softball quarterfinals in Shenandoah.

The Panthers put up 12 runs on 12 hits. Page County head coach Alan Knight said the key was staying disciplined at the plate and putting a good swing on it, which he felt they did exceptionally well Monday.

“That’s what you’re always trying to do,” Knight said. “I thought we did a really good job of that. We hit a lot of balls hard, which

is what you want. You hit it hard, it usually turns into hits eventually. I liked our approach with that [and] it’s a nice win.”

Page County junior pitching ace Bailee Gaskins impressed again, tossing for five innings and striking out eight. Gaskins said every win from here on out is enormous, as they live to fight another day.

“Anyone can come out and win on any given night,” Gaskins said. “This win is huge for us, [because] we get to move on and play another game.”

After falling in the Virginia High School League Class 2 state championship game a year ago, Gaskins said the team has a chip on its shoulder. Yet, they can’t look too far ahead and have to focus on what’s in front of them.

“We would really like to get back there to

redeem ourselves,” Gaskins said. “If we take it one game at a time, I think we can be back where we were last year.”

Gaskins said one of their keys to success is energy, something she felt they didn’t have early in the year. She said that the hits follow when the team is in good spirits and cheering each other on.

“The support in the dugout and on the field is everything,” Gaskins said. “Especially as a pitcher, I love when I can hear my teammates and them having my back.”

PCHS junior center fielder Adryn Martin doubled thrice and drove in three RBIs, while Gaskins slammed a double of her own, which drove in two.

East Rock Eagles stay hot, down Bulldogs

By CODY ELLIOTT For The Page

News

and Courier

ELKTON — The responses from each player and coach were well in sync.

Riding the momentum from a Bull Run District tournament title and beginning regional play at home, third-seeded East Rockingham declared that it wasn’t thinking about past results.

And maybe the Eagles truly didn’t have it on their minds. But after suffering an eight-run shutout loss at the hands of sixth-seeded Luray in their last regular-season meeting on May 2 — the first district setback of the season for ERHS — the storyline certainly existed.

“We forgot about the loss, honestly,” East Rockingham sophomore standout Landon Bruce said. “We knew what we did that first game [against LHS] and tried to refocus.”

The Eagles took care of business Monday, using solid pitching performances and timely hitting to defeat the Bulldogs 8-4 in the Region 2B baseball

quarterfinals in Elkton.

With the victory, East Rock advanced to the regional semifinals on Wednesday.

“For me, the big thing was we played a complete ball game,” East Rock second-year head coach Jordan Biller said. “We hadn’t done that in a while, and it was good to see that. We didn’t have too many errors, hit the ball well, were aggressive on the bases, and our pitchers were lights out. It’s a pretty good day when you can do all of those things.”

That loss to Luray on May 2 was the first of back-to-back Bull Run District setbacks.

In fact, the Eagles went through a stretch where they dropped three out of their next four in a 10-day period, but the response since that quartet of games has been as good as it gets.

“Our boys do a great job, especially seniors, with leadership and staying focused,” Biller said. “When they came in today, I could immediately see how

Prep Softball: Region 2B Quarterfinals

Page County’s Ali Purham chases down a grounder off the bounce to shortstop.

Prep Baseball: Region 2B Quarterfinals

Eagles take off, capture region 2B Championship

By JOHN BREEDEN

For The Page News and Courier

ELKTON — The East Rockingham boys track and field squad wasn’t going to let anyone outduel them.

The Eagles showcased their superiority by winning nearly every event and coasting to the Region 2B boys championship, while the Strasburg girls team took care of business and claimed the regional title for themselves Wednesday at ERHS.

East Rock’s boys 4x800 relay crew of Cade Yancey, Jude Randall, Rylan Gerken, and Hayden Fox placed first with a combined time of 8:59. Fox later placed first in the boys 1600-meter run with a time of 4:44.

Having already qualified for the state meet in the 1600-meter and the 800-meter. Since he has to choose one or the other, Fox used Wednesday as a baseline for where he needs to be and what race he wants to choose.

Fox is undecided on that yet, but he’s most excited to run the 4x800 relay in the state meet. Judging by seed times, he believes it’ll be tough competition.

“I think it’s going to be a really great race at states,” Fox said. “It’s going to really come down to who’s willing to push themselves the hardest.”

Strasburg’s girls 4x800-relay team of Claire Keefe, Paige Hiserman, Toni Rhodes, and Megan Martin cruised to first with a combined time of 10:32. Keefe went on to nab first in the girls 400-meter dash with a time of 59.46.

Keefe felt accomplished after setting a personal record in her 400-meter effort. She admitted she was nervous prior to the race, but was able to put the nerves aside and rise to the occasion.

Keefe said she normally takes an aggressive approach to the 400-meter and takes off in the beginning. Wednesday, however, was different. “I was a little more conservative on the first 200[m],” Keefe said. “Usually, I try to sprint that out. [Wednesday], I had a lot more kick than I usually do in the end. It was definitely my favorite race I’ve ever done, so it felt great.”

Luray three-sport star

Jaidyn McClung snagged first in the girls 100-meter hurdles with a time of 16.01, and later took first in the girls 300-meter hurdles with a time of 48.21.

McClung is relatively new to hurdle events. She said she was essentially thrown into it,

and quickly put up state-qualifying time in the 300-meter hurdles.

McClung said there’s a lot of fundamentals that go into excelling at the hurdles, both in the running and jumping.

“It’s a lot of sitting there with one hurdle, going over it, and just working on technique,” McClung said. “You’ve got to have some type of sprints, but you also have to be able to run fast, jump, do your form, and get across the hurdle without falling.”

East Rock’s Gabriel Wylie earned first in the boys 100-meter dash with a time of 11.40, and later clocked in a 400-meter dash time of 51.62 — good for first place. Wylie was disappointed he couldn’t set a personal-record, but is hopeful he can do so at states.

It’s meaningful for Wylie to represent East Rock in a successful way and to see the hard work he’s put in pay off in the regional meet.

“I’ve been working hard for track over the last couple of years,” Wylie said. “To see me actually doing good and winning, it means a lot.”

Stuarts Draft’s Megan Walter took first in the girls

100-meter dash with a time of 13.03. Walter felt well-rested going into the 100-meter, which boosted her confidence going in.

Walter also placed third in the 200-meter with a time of 27.45, good enough to qualify for states.

“This next week is going to be rough at practice, but it’ll pay when I get there,” Walter said. “I hope I can get through the prelims, because last year I did not.”

Page County’s Summer Kite took the win in the girls 1600-meter run with a time of 5:44 — Page County’s sole running event win of the meet.

East Rock’s boys 4x100 relay team of Blake Morris, Anthony Pataki, Damien Durrette, and Xavia Brown placed first with their combined time of 44.55. Clarke County’s girls 4x100-meter relay team of Reagan Myer, Emmalene Morris, Selene Good, and Bailey Beard took first with a combined time of 51.78.

Beard later scored the win in the girls 200-meter dash with a time of 26.45, while East Rock’s Katelyn Martin won the girls 3200-meter run with a time of 12:51.

East Rock’s Samuel Shifflett prevailed over Luray’s Davey Johnson in a nail-biter for first in the boys 800-meter run with a time of 2:00. Josh Nuckols placed third while Fox took fourth with times of 2:06 and 2:09, respectively.

Clarke County’s Teya Starley legged out Strasburg’s Megan Martin for the win in the girls 800-meter run with a time of 2:25. Stuarts

Draft’s John Hurd narrowly beat East Rock’s Damien Durrette to grab first in the boys 200-meter dash with a time of 23.44.

In the final running events, Morris, Jacob Dean, Shifflett, and Wylie gave East Rock the win in the boys 4x400-meter relay with a combined time of 3:29. Strasburg’s girls 4x400-meter relay team of Martin, Toni Rhodes, Macy Smith, and Keefe claimed first with their combined time of 4:15.

In field events, Smith was victorious in the girls long jump with a mark of 17-10.00. The junior also bagged the win in girls triple jump with a mark of 35-09.50.

Smith said she buckled her knee on her second run

through in the triple jump, and felt it caused her to not show her full potential in the event. Yet, she felt fast and attacked well in the long jump.

Smith said she’ll need to keep her focus where it needs to be, as well as stay in the moment and enjoy it.

“Not many people get to [compete in states],” Smith said. “I just thank God for being here, because I didn’t think I would be since I hurt my back a few weeks ago. I’m just going to enjoy it and keep my mind sharp on what I need to do.”

East Rock’s Christopher Wylie dominated the boys shot put with a first-place mark of 51-02.00. Wylie also cleaned house in the boys discus throw with a mark of 143-05 for first place.

Christopher, older brother of Gabriel, said it always feels good to perform well at home, but for him and his brother to do so is even more meaningful.

“He’s following in my footsteps, just in different events,” Christopher said. “I have him to come back next year when I’m gone, so hopefully the Wylie name will still live on.”

Stuarts Draft’s Abby Mikolay secured the win in girls

shot put with a mark of 3508.00, while Strasburg’s Amanie Hogan clinched first in girls discus throw with a mark of 113-00.

Jacob Martz represented Page County well with a win in boys high jump, marking at 6-02.00. Strasburg’s Maddy Dofermire picked up the win in girls high jump with a mark of 4-08.00.

Cal Robertson’s pole vault mark of 11-06.00 was good for first place for East Rock, while Stuarts Draft’s Anna Callo won the girls side of pole vault with a mark of 10-06.00.

The East Rock boys more than doubled second place Mountain View’s score with 207 points, compared to 66. Page County took third with 64 points, while Clarke County tied with Madison County for fourth with 55 points.

The Strasburg girls tallied 121 points for first place. Clarke County took second with 91.5 points, followed by East Rock (78.5), Luray (78.5), and Stuarts Draft (77).

Contact John Breeden at 540-574-6291 or jbreeden@ dnronline.com. | Follow John on Twitter: @John_R_Breeden

Martin feels Monday’s win is a huge confidence boost, and they hope to continue to move through the postseason.

“I think we’re excited and we want to make it far,”

Eagles FROM PAGE B1

Gaskins FROM PAGE B1 locked in they were. They were only worried about winning today. All they were thinking of was moving on and getting to the next round. They weren’t thinking about past games, results, or what happened the last time we played them. They were focused in today and ready to go from the start.”

East Rock (20-4) has won six straight following Monday’s playoff win over Luray.

Although Bulldogs junior starter Landon Vile was actually solid on the mound, four errors ultimately cost them as Vile allowed eight runs (three earned) on eight hits and a walk with four strikeouts before being relieved by junior Jacob Shenk in the fourth inning.

“We committed four errors, and they only had one earned run,” Luray veteran head coach Charlie Shepard said. “That’s the story of the game. Landon made a lot of quality pitches and got the result that should have been an out. We didn’t make the plays. That’s a good

Martin said. The Panthers (21-3) advance to the regional semifinals Wednesday against the winner of No. 4 Buckingham County and No. 5 East Rockingham, which were set to

East Rock team. Don’t take anything away from them. They deserved it and played really well. We played hard, but those mistakes were the difference in the game.”

The Bulldogs (8-14) had battled back to even it up at 3-3 in the fourth with a three-run inning that included RBI singles from freshman catcher Nick Cubbage and junior outfielder Mason Seekford, along with a deep sac fly from Vile to bring home senior Bailey Graybeal.

But back-to-back RBI singles from sophomores Bruce and William Eppard, along with an RBI grounder from sophomore catcher Ryan Wright and a two-run triple from senior Quinton Hensley, allowed East Rock to respond with five more runs in the bottom half of the frame.

“We were just better overall and able to capitalize,” said Quinton Hensley, who finished with a teamhigh three RBIs in the victory. “We made adjustments early, which helped us. We could put the ball into play and start hitting a little bit. It was a better overall effort.”

square off Tuesday.

Knight was pleased with his team’s outing to start the playoffs, and while it wasn’t perfect, he felt it was a solid victory.

“We committed two errors, which I’m a little dis-

Shenk was strong in relief for Luray, allowing no runs on two hits and one walk with five strikeouts, while junior infielder Christian Lentz went 2-for-3 to lead at the plate.

Although the season came to a disappointing end with first-round losses in both the district and regional playoffs, 2023 marked the first time the Bulldogs even played postseason baseball in nearly 10 years — a testament to the program Shepard has built there.

“There’s a lot of games we’d like to have back that would have put us in a better seeding, but this group of kids has played together and taken their lumps for two years. They really grew this year. To make postseason play, regardless of the outcome, is a good step. With 90 percent of the team coming back, that expectation now that we’ve been there is that we want more. We want to move on. This program is going in the right direction. We’re disappointed, but we’re in a good place. It’s a lot easier knowing you’re heading in the right direction. Playing on

appointed with,” Knight said. “All in all, [it’s] a nice win. … We hit the ball hard, Bailee pitched well, [and] it’s a win.”

Memorial Day is a big deal. This group got that taste. Hopefully it keeps that fire burning and that motivation to keep growing.”

The Eagles will now focus on No. 7 Stuarts Draft, which pulled off an upset of second-seeded Madison County in another regional quarterfinal Monday.

Coincidentally, the Cougars ended East Rock’s season just a year ago.

“I think we all know how big this next game is,” Bruce said.

Bruce finished with four innings tossed Monday, giving up three runs on five hits and two walks with four strikeouts while also going 4-for-4 with an RBI at the plate for ERHS.

Wyatt Baker, a senior reliever, tossed three one-hit innings, giving up an unearned run on three walks while striking out three for the Eagles, while junior third baseman Ryan Williams was 2-for-3 with a triple from the leadoff spot, and Eppard was 2-for-4 with a pair of RBIs.

“It feels good, but everything is day by day,” Quinton Hensley said. “We’re looking forward to working

Austin. HBP — PC: Shifflett, Frymer, Roudabish, Gaskins, Baugher. SB — PC: Roudabish, Baugher, Rinker. E — PC: Comer, Rinker.

Contact John Breeden at 540-574-6291 or jbreeden@ dnronline.com. | Follow John on Twitter: @John_R_Breeden

on getting better. We’ll be ready for whoever we play on Wednesday.”

Before Monday’s rematch with Luray, East Rock insisted it’s locked in on the future. And after a convincing win that earned them a 6:30 p.m. semifinal date with Draft at home on Wednesday, it’s hard not to believe the Eagles are doing just that.

“None of us want to be done,” Biller said. “Our seniors to our youngest guys are all hungry. They’re not ready to quit, not ready to give in. They know every game is win or go home. The guys are just locked in, and we’ll get them ready to win a baseball game. We just have to go out and play our brand of baseball.”

Semifinals FROM PAGE B1

Williams doubled and contributed two RBIs Monday. The senior left fielder noted he left the sport of baseball for a while, therefore the team accomplishing what they have so far is even more meaningful to him.

“Coming back now and going this far feels really good,” Williams said.

First baseman Noah Lucas drilled a solo homer in the bottom of the second off Mountain View starting pitcher Ayden Reynard for the first score of the game. From there, Page County put up seven more runs in the next three innings. On the mound for four innings was Colby Cave, who struck out six and allowed only three hits.

Mountain View (1211) was led by Joey McNamara with a double and an RBI, and Chase Jones with a double.

The Panthers advance to the Region 2B semifinals Wednesday. Comer was pleased with Monday’s outing, and said they’ll need a similar effort in order to keep marching through the playoffs.

“We need to keep scoring runs and playing good defense,” Comer said. “We can beat anybody on any given day. It’s a great bunch of guys, they’re well disciplined and I love them.”

Photos by Daniel Lin / For the PNC

LEFT: East Rockingham’s Hayden Fox anchors the 4x800 relay.

TOP: East Rockingham’s Blake Morris makes the handoff to Anthony Pataki in the 4x100 relay.

BOTTOM: East Rockingham’s Gabriel Wylie crosses the finish line as he wins the 100-meter dash.

Page County Panthers pull off upset of top-seeded Madison

By CODY ELLIOTT

For The Page News and Courier

One of the most storied programs in the Shenandoah Valley is suddenly heating up at the right time.

Fourth-seeded Page County racked up 14 hits as a team and got a stellar relief outing out of junior Jordan Foster, upsetting No. 1 Madison County 9-7 in the Bull Run District baseball semifinals Tuesday.

With the road win, the Panthers advance to Thursday’s district title game at No. 2 East Rockingham.

Early on, it looked like the Mountaineers may run away with it after jumping out to a four-run lead through two innings, but Page County responded with a four-run fourth to even the score up.

The two teams then ex -

changed a run over the next full frame before an RBI single from sophomore infielder Tyler Shifflett suddenly gave the Panthers an 8-7 lead in the top of the sixth inning.

In the seventh, senior catcher Everett Foltz added an insurance run with an infield single that scored senior infielder Adam Short and made it a 9-7 lead, and Foster was sharp to finish the contest.

Foster tossed 5.1 relief frames, giving up one run on five hits and three walks with two strikeouts.

At the plate for Page (1012), Shifflett was 3-for-4 with a pair of RBIs in the leadoff spot, while Short also was 3-for-4 with a triple, a pair of runs scored, and an RBI in the impressive upset victory.

Sean Cave, a junior, was

2-for-4 with a run scored, while senior Jacob Williams was also 2-for-4 with a pair of runs scored and two RBIs. Foster and senior outfielder Gunnar Strickler each had RBI doubles.

The Panthers will take on the Eagles for the district championship at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday in Elkton.

By CODY ELLIOTT

For The Page News and Courier

When the game is on the line, no one may be better than Arianna Roudabush.

The junior outfielder came up clutch, once again, for top-seeded Page County, delivering the game-winning walk-off RBI double to score senior teammate Adryn Martin in a 4-3 win over fifth-seeded Central in the Bull Run District softball semifinals on Tuesday in Shenandoah.

The Panthers trailed entering the bottom of the seventh before Martin’s RBI single to left scored freshman Aliyah Knight to even the score up and set up Roudabush’s late-game heroics.

It’s the second time in less than a week that Roudabush has delivered a walk-off win for Page. She connected

on a sac fly to help the Panthers defeat East Rockingham in the regular-season finale.

In Tuesday’s win over the Falcons, Roudabush finished 3-for-4 with a double, a triple, and an RBI, while Martin was 2-for-3 with a run scored and an RBI, and junior Bailee Gaskins had a solo homer.

Gaskins also tossed a complete game in the circle for Page (19-3), giving up three runs (one earned) on six hits and four walks while racking up five strikeouts in an efficient overall performance.

For Central (12-10), senior standout Trynda Mantz was impressive, also going the distance and allowing four runs on six hits and a pair of walks while striking out seven in the road setback.

Sophomore Keriana Stottlemyer

was 2-for-4 with an RBI at the plate for the Falcons, while Mantz had a two-run single, and freshman infielder Vanessa Gordon added a triple and a run scored.

host

3 Clarke County in the Bull Run District title game

at

Page County Chamber

The Legacy Inn Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting

Tuesday, June 6th, 10:00 AM

Join us to celebrate the grand opening of The Legacy Inn, 120 N. Hawksbill Street, Luray. The Legacy Inn is one of the newest lodging options for people coming to stay in Luray-Page County. We’ll be cutting the ribbon at 10:00 AM, followed by a chance to meet the owners and tour the Inn. RSVP to events@luraypage.com or (540) 743-3915 by Monday, June 5th.

97th Annual Banquet & Awards

Thursday, June 8th, 5:00 PM

97th Annual Banquet & Awards will be a Hawaiian Luau themed celebration of the LurayPage County Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center’s 97th year in the Page County business community. This year’s Annual Banquet & Awards will be held at Brenwood Lake Weddings, 245 Log Cabin Drive, Stanley, with a cocktail hour, silent auction, catered meal, and awards. We’re excited to share this celebration time with all our amazing members.

Domino’s Grand Re-Opening & Ribbon Cutting

Monday, June 12th, 10:00 AM

Join us to celebrate the grand re-opening of Domino’s at their new location. Domino’s recently moved to 721 East Main Street, Luray, to expand their offerings and space. We’ll be cutting the ribbon at 10:00 AM, followed by a chance to explore their new location. RSVP to events@luraypage.com or (540) 743-3915 by Friday, June 9th.

Wednesday, June 14th, 12:00-12:30 PM

The Valley Business Today Radio Show – Page Valley News

Wednesday, June 14th, 12:00-12:30 PM

Randy Arrington, publisher for Page Valley News, is joining Edison Emmons to share information on this online local news source. Listen in to The River 95.3 or https:// thevalleytoday.libsyn.com/ to learn about this local news source. To be a future guest on the Tourism Tuesday Radio Show, contact Edison at edison.emmons@luraypage.com.

Business After Hours –Wisteria Farm & Vineyard

Thursday, June 15th, 5:30-7:00 PM

Join us on Thursday, June 15th, from 5:307:00 PM, for this month’s Business After Hours at Wisteria Farm & Vineyard, 1126 Marksville Road, Stanley. Come unwind with an evening of delicious wine, tasty refreshments, and an evening of networking with other Chamber Members. This event is designed for Chamber members to meet and build relationships with other local business members. It is time to get together and enjoy each other’s company. Bring business cards for networking and to be entered in door prize raffles. If you would like to attend, please RSVP to events@luraypage.com or (540) 743-3915 by Tuesday, June 13th.

Daughter of the Stars Farmers Market Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting

Saturday, June 17th, 10:00 AM

Join us on Saturday, June 17th at 10:00 AM to celebrate the grand opening of the Luray location for Daughter of the Stars Farmers Market. The Luray market is being held at the Luray-Page County Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center, 18 Campbell Street, Luray the 3rd Saturday of every month from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM from June to November. We’ll be cutting the ribbon at 10:00 AM, followed by a chance to explore the market and purchase. RSVP by Friday, June 16th to events@luraypage.com or (540) 743-3915.

Tourism Tuesday Radio Show – 4th of July Downtown Get Down

Tuesday, June 20th, 12:00-12:30 PM

Ryan Cubbage, Assistant Superintendent for Town of Luray Parks and Recreation is joining Edison Emmons to share information on the town’s 4th of July event. Listen in to The River 95.3 or https://thevalleytoday. libsyn.com/ to learn about the food, tunes, and booms. To be a future guest on the Tourism Tuesday Radio Show, contact Edison at edison.emmons@luraypage.com.

Women in Business Lunch –New Creation

Tuesday, June 27th, 11:30 AM-1:00 PM

Join us on Tuesday, June 27th, from 11:30 AM-1:00 PM, at The Valley Cork, 55 East Main Street, Luray, for this month’s Women in Business Lunch. Sabrina Dorman-Andrew, Executive Director of New Creation will be joining us to talk about Being a Difference Maker and how her business is creatively counteracting human trafficking. New Creation is a non-profit organization and fair trade shoppe based in Harrisonburg that is on a mission to creatively counteract human trafficking with a local heart and a global approach. You’ll learn about their organization, how they work to combat human trafficking, and how we can all lend a helping hand. Lunch will be provided by The Valley Cork and will be $15 for Chamber Members, or $20 for Potential Members. Please RSVP to events@luraypage.com or (540) 743-3915 by Friday, June 23rd.

Local named to SNHU Dean’s List

From PNC Staff Reports

MANCHESTER, N.H. — Jacquelyne Reese of Luray has been named to Southern New Hampshire University’s Winter 2023 Dean’s List. The winter terms run from January to May.

Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a

minimum grade-point average of 3.500 to 3.699 for the reporting term are named to the Dean’s List. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16-week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring, and summer.

Southern New Hampshire University is a private, non-

profit institution with a 90year history of educating traditional-aged students and working adults. Now serving more than 170,000 learners worldwide, SNHU offers approximately 200 accredited undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs, available online and on its 300acre campus in Manchester,

NH. Recognized as one of the “Most Innovative” regional universities by U.S. News & World Report and one of the fastest-growing universities in the country, SNHU is committed to expanding access to high quality, affordable pathways that meet the needs of each learner. Learn more at www.snhu.edu.

Laurel Ridge honors community supporters and retirees in ceremony

From PNC Staff Reports

Community members, along with two retired professors and three retired staff members, were honored by Laurel Ridge during a Medallion and Emeriti Recognition Ceremony on May 10, the school stated in a press release.

This year marked the first time that staff emeriti recognitions were awarded by the Classified Staff Council.

“Similar to the recognition of professor emeritus, the purpose of the staff emeritus is to recognize staff members’ exceptional service and contributions to the college,” Laurel Ridge President Kim Blosser said.

The inaugural class of staff emeritae were Janet Heishman, who worked at the college from 1972-2012; Eileen Rexrode, who was at the college from 1989-2016; and Judy Rinker, who served

from 1972-2010.

Professor Emerita Andrea Ludwick presented the designation to Rinker, who was the first Shenandoah County resident to enroll in the college in 1970, and became the first Outstanding Graduate in 1972. She would later come to work at Laurel Ridge, serving in various roles, including executive assistant to the president and administrative coordinator of planning and compliance. Among the accolades she received during her service were the Support Staff Showcase Award from the Virginia Community College Association and Laurel Ridge’s Distinguished Staff Award.

“Judy, you have done so much to make this institution what it is,” Professor Emerita Ludwick said. “For many, Judy was the face of the college.”

Rexrode retired as the administrative assistant to the

dean of humanities, mathematics and social sciences. She was the Distinguished Staff award winner in 1996.

“Eileen demonstrated selfless support of the faculty and staff and was a key contributor to the instructional mission of the college,” academic advisor and Staff Council Chair Sarah Pangle said. “She loved everybody. Eileen is the embodiment of what community colleges are all about –lifelong learning.”

Heishman, who was a fiscal technician at Laurel Ridge, also was a Distinguished Staff award winner, receiving the honor in 2001. She also received a Medallion of Recognition in 2012.

“Janet was the cornerstone of the college business office,” said library archivist John Owens, who serves as the council’s vice chair. “Janet was woven into the fabric of college life.”

The two retirees given pro-

MVHS student receives Granville P. Meade Scholarship

From PNC Staff Reports

QUICKSBURG — The Virginia Department of Education has announced that Mountain View High School student Rosa Fonseca has been selected as a recipient of the 2023 Granville P. Meade Scholarship, the school announced in a press release.

fessor emeritus status during the ceremony both taught math at Laurel Ridge. Professor Frank Borleske was on the faculty when the college first opened in 1970 and continued until his retirement last year, although he still teaches as an adjunct.

“We all hope to have the same type of impact on our students that Frank has had on his,” said History and Humanities Professor Nicole Martin.

Professor Borleske taught 7,455 students during the course of his career, with a total enrollment of 10,286 students.

“You have to be doing something right if you have more than 3,000 students take more than one math class,” Martin said.

“I’m really glad that I have a job that I really enjoy doing,” said Professor Borleske, who received the Distinguished Faculty award in 2010.

Mountain View High School Principal Mike Dorman and Shenandoah County Public Schools Superintendent Melody Sheppard presented Rosa with the award notification and certificate on May 19, the press release stated.

Rosa is the daughter of Brizaida Fonseca Lazoncex During her time at MVHS, she has completed 10 dual enrollment courses. She has a 4.0 GPA and will graduate with an advanced diploma as well as a Pre-Allied Health Certificate from Laurel Ridge Community College. She plans to attend Eastern Mennonite University in the fall and study physical therapy and occupational therapy, the press release stated.

The Granville P. Meade Scholarship is awarded to students who achieve academic excellence but may be financially unable to attend college. Each recipient receives $2,000 beginning with the 2023-2024 school year to help offset college ex-

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penses. The scholarship may be used for any Virginia postsecondary institution. It is renewable for up to three additional years, provided the student remains enrolled in the Virginia college or university and maintains a minimum of a 2.5 GPA each semester, the press release stated.

“Rosa is an amazing student who has accomplished a lot during her high school career,” says Principal Dorman. “I have enjoyed seeing her become the student she is today and sharing in some of the memories she has made in our school. I know she will go on to achieve her goals at EMU and be successful.”

Contributed Photo Mountain View High School Principal Mike Dorman and Shenandoah County Public Schools Superintendent Melody Sheppard presented Rosa [center] with the award notification and certificate on May 19.

Elkton Library revitalized with traditional hand-painted sign

By HARLEIGH CUPP

For the Page News and Courier

ELKTON — Jimmy

Bruce — dressed in a white bucket hat and stained black pants — stood on top of a scaffold set up outside of the Elkton Community Library on Wednesday, May 24, painting the final touches on a new hand-lettered sign.

By noon, the project which had taken Bruce more than 18 hours to complete, was finally finished, and the library came to life under a fresh coat of white and blue paint. The process started six months ago when Mayor Joshua Gooden reached out to Age Old Sign Company — owned by Bruce — about adding a painted sign to the front of the Elkton Library. Bruce took careful dimensions of the building

front and devised a plan for the font and spacing that was tailored to the size and style of the building. Once a paper pattern was made, Bruce outlined each of the letters.

“And then I just sit up there for hours,” humored Bruce — who spent two days painting his way across the front of the library.

Bruce started his professional painting career after leaving the field of social work in 2014.

“Any person that painted, I wanted to meet them,” Bruce said. “It took a lot of hard work and practice.”

Generations ago, sign painting was treated as a trade. Painters had unions and training just like a plumber or a mechanic would. According to Bruce, the skill of professional

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lettering today is primarily made up of self taught artists.

“I’ve always had a love for lettering,” said Bruce. “It’s a blessing to be able to do this full time.”

Under the name of Age Old Sign Company, Bruce has been slowly enhancing storefronts across the Shenandoah Valley with traditional, hand-painted and gilded signs. In fact, the black-lettered signs on Elkton Brewery and Pure Shenandoah — each no more than a block away from the library — were also painted by Bruce.

“This is really cool for us because this is our town,” expressed Bruce.

Bruce was commissioned by the Elkton Downtown Revitalization Corporation to paint the lettered sign that runs across the top of the building, but it

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was Bruce’s wife — Niki — who volunteered her time to paint the rest of the

building to match. The couple met while they were both living in Atlanta and have been together for the last 20 years. Having moved to the area to raise a family, Niki recalled making frequent trips to the little old library in Elkton with her young son.

“This tiny library holds so much magic for little kids,” Niki said. “Readers are leaders, so we need them to want to come here. Libraries are the crowning jewel of any community.”

Before Bruce arrived on the scene, the only thing that gave away that it was indeed a library was the metal book return box. In its past, the building — located at 106 Terrace Avenue — served as the jail for the Elkton police department as well as housing a food pantry and a hair salon.

It was transformed into a library in 1995, which according to Beth Hildebrand — who has been branch manager for the Elkton Library since June 2020 — was probably the last time the exterior paint on the building had gotten any attention at all.

“I am so ecstatic to have this much needed update,” Hildebrand said. “If you look at pictures from before, you’ll notice what a significant difference this has made.”

Though they may never know their names, library patrons years from now will still be admiring the work of the local sign painter and his wife, who revitalized the face of a building that holds great importance to the Elkton community. This story originally ran in Daily News-Record.

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Harleigh Cupp / For the PNC

Fresh paint for the Elkton Community Library — funded by the Elkton Downtown Revitalization Corporation — was finished just before noon on May 24.