May 25, 2023

From PNC Staff Reports

PAGE COUNTY — The Page Republican Party held its Mass Meeting May 16 at the VFW to elect the Republican nominees for Page County constitutional offi cers to run in the ovember 2023 election on the Republican ticket.

The meeting was attended by people with votes cast. fficial members of the party at the meeting stated that it was one of the largest turnouts it has seen. The clerk of court was a contested party race between incum-

bent Grayson Markowitz and Shirron Ballard. Both candidates were able to give a brief speech before voting started.

Ballard was the winning nominee receiving 7 of the votes to Mar owit s . allard received votes to Mar owit s votes.

The slate of Republican nominees that will run for constitutional officers are ryan ave for ommonwealth attorney

• Shirron Ballard for Clerk of the Court

• Chad Cubbage for Sheriff

• Becky Smith for Commissioner of evenue

To stay informed sign with GOP affairs sign up for emails at www.pagegop.org

There will be another party race at the GOP Unit Meeting May 30 at 6 p.m. for the party to elect the nominee for the two open county supervisor seats on the ballot for the ovember election.

This meeting will take place at Valley Cork.

That party race will fi nali e the slate of Republican nominees for Page County elected positions

in ovember.

As of Tuesday morning, May 23, the party was still open for people to put their hat in to run for the supervisor nominations.

November Election

n the ovember ballot for age ounty, there will be several positions including Districts , and board of supervisors school board members in Districts , , and the two oil and ater directors and the circuit court clerk, Commonwealth’s attorney, sheriff, commissioner of revenue and treasurer.

The District 1 school board seat election is to fill an unexpired term.

Forms are available from the general registrar s office and online at elections.virginia.gov

Voters and those interested in running can contact the general registrar s office at -7 - 6, or email cgaunt pagecounty.virginia.gov for more information.

The electoral board office is located at County Administration Building 103 S. Court St., Luray.

The filing deadline for those wishing to be on the ovember ballot is June at 7 p.m.

Remains of missing man found inside park

From PNC Staff Reports

GOP picks Ballard as clerk of court nominee in vote A Concert, ‘Through the Years’ brings joy

By GABRIELE PAONESSA

Page News and Courier

Excitement buzzed among the members of Main Street Singers behind the scenes in anticipation for their first concert performance since COVID in 2020.

t was also the group s first performance with their new director, K. Denise Schulz, as well, moving to age ounty from arrisonburg just last year.

Coming as a recommendation from another choir member, Schulz was brought in for an interview and hired to direct the company. The new director has done a masterful job leading the group in celebrating its 20-year anniversary with this first concert since the long break.

Knowing the importance of this debut performance, Schulz, was tasked with selecting the right musical pieces.

“After such a long break, it was important to showcase pieces previously performed,

By GABRIELE PAONESSA

Page News and Courier

The rain may have put a damper on aturday night s event, delaying it slightly, but it didn’t discourage anyone from attending or participating in the 10th an-

stated chul . y choosing previous music, it gave a familiarity to the members and was a beautiful way to celebrate a 20-year anniversary.

The concert showcased a variety of musical genres, giving the choral members a chance to display their range of talent. The opening song

Few entle dmonitions by Drew Jansen and J. David Moore, was uite witty, in that it was written as a P.S.A. about silencing cell phones. It was exceptionally written on proper concert eti uette, which has gone by the wayside in recent years. As an attendee to any concert, knowing and following proper concert eti uette will show the performers the respect they deserve, concert organi ers affirmed. imple ifts , an old ha er song adapted by aron opland, is a beloved choral piece that has been performed by many since it was originally written in . istening to the Main Street Singers perform that piece will bring bac memories of when others may have first sang that piece. The concert was brought

nual Truck and Tractor Pull held by the Luray Fire Department.

Ten years ago, a captain started this fundraiser for the Luray Fire Department in order to put money back into the department s reserved funds which pays for the maintenance of the

• David Buracker Jr., 82, Luray

• Soloman Earl Bruce Jr., 91, Luray

• Kay Agnes Purdham, 73, Luray

home in its closing piece, henandoah, an old American folk song arranged by Jay Althouse, considered by some to be the national anthem to this home in the Shenandoah Valley. The piece left the audience to reminisce and to be than ful for the beautiful place in the valley.

The Main Street Singers not only performed as an entire group but broke off into smaller ensembles for pieces li e nyway by Martina McBride, Brad and Brett Warren, and f ou ve nly ot a Mustache by Stephen Foster and George Cooper. A couple of pieces performed showcased soloists pril Fahrney alto , obert riffith bass , enny ulse Tenor , ebecca urroughs alto . ll music was accompanied by Dale amilton on keyboard, and was joined by Putter Cox on bass, and Jim Lagasse on drums for inging in the ain and ac to the Fifties . The keyboard accompanist is a member of the Main Street Singers.

fire truc s and the fire hall. The proceeds from parking, food and drin , raffl e and tic ets, and t-shirt sales is what goes bac into the fire department. This event has really drawn in the crowds as it continues each year. The grand stands at the

Page Valley Fairgrounds holds a ma imum of , people, much of that was filled up on aturday night, and there were others who had brought chairs of their own to sit in the grass areas.

LURAY — The search for Mateo obo evallos ended after remains were found in the park, a press release from henandoah ational ar stated.

preliminary identification of remains that were found Sunday, May , in the par identified them as Mateo obo evallos, the press release stated.

The body of a male believed to be Mateo obo evallos was discovered by searchers unday at p.m. The body was transported to the ffice of the Medical Examiner in Manassas for positive identification and determination of cause of death. evallos was reported missing to the Fairfax County Police Department on May 6. e was last seen leaving his home in Oakton, Virginia May 5 on his way to eorge Mason niversity, according to officials. ased on information received Tuesday evening, May 6, the press release stated, henandoah ational ar rangers began loo ing for evallos s vehicle. They located the car in the northern area of henandoah ational ar in a par ing lot that serves the popular verall un Falls Trail.

The park established a search operation ednesday morning, May 7, which continued through the weekend. The remains were found in the park about 1.6 miles from where the car was parked, in steep terrain near several roc outcrops, the press release stated.

Trails in the verall un area that were closed for search operations have been reopened. henandoah ational ar and Virginia Department of Emergency Management thanked the organiations that were involved including Virginia Department of Emergency Management, Fairfax County Police, Virginia State Police, as well as numerous volunteer organizations including Piedmont SAR, Blue Ridge Mountain Rescue Group, Old Rag Mountain Stewards, Virginia Rescue Dog Association, Christian Ministries SAR, SAR Tracking Institute, Blacksburg Volunteer Rescue uad, henandoah Mountain Rescue Group, Blue and Grey Rescue Dogs, TrotSAR, K9 Alert, Frederick County Sheriff’s Department, and Virginia State Parks.

Contributed Photo by Benjamin Somberg

The Main Street Singers perform first concert since COVID with director K. Denise Schulz.

Balanced meals an important part of healthy eating

By ALENA ROTS Page News and Courier Columnist

I’ve always enjoyed cooking, making those meals that my husband and grandson enjoyed. Then there was no husband and grandson to cook for — there was just me. I did not like to eat by myself. I no longer had any desire to cook for myself, so I got into a very bad habit. I ate when I got hungry. In the morning when I got up, I had to have my coffee. I would eat something later. Three or four o’clock I would

have a sandwich and about eight o’clock I would have something that resembled a meal like meat and potatoes — no vegetables. Somewhere along the way I had lost interest for any kind of vegetable. I knew that this was not doing me any good. I would have to find another way to get a diet plan and stick to it.

I found out there was a Senior Citizen Center close by that was open in the mornings four days a week. They had planned activities, and they served you lunch.

Sounded good to me. I would get one good meal a day, and I would also meet other people there who shared the same interests.

Now this was about 10 years ago, and I did go into the center. It was very nice. But eventually I had to stop because of my various aches and pains. Then I learned they had home delivery. That was great. They delivered two meals a day, two days a week. The meals were very good, and they were balanced meals.

Gradually the meals were piling up in my freezer. I had

no desire to eat. I stopped getting Meals On Wheels. The problem? I could not taste the food.

I searched and found many articles on the subject of “no taste” and found an article about “taste buds.” Did you know that your taste buds can basically dry up? It made sense. Everything else in my body seemed to be wearing out and now my taste buds. I found nothing in that article that told me what to do about the situation. So here we are today. I have lost about forty pounds

Photos from the community

over the past two years. The medicine for my diabetes is the reason for some of the weight loss, but my poor eating habits are basically the cause. Now I’ve made a diet plan, including those disgusting vegetables, which I am determined to stick to. But for you, if you aren’t eating the way you should, find something you can do to fi it.

Call a friend and go out to eat. Or maybe cook something for the two of you? Call your Senior Citizen Center and find out what they

have to offer. Also by calling Page One, you can actually get a whole month’s supply of food, and it’s free. This would really help the budget. In other areas, inquire where the county social service office is. There also might be some aid available to if you are having a problem with the budget and getting the food your family needs.

Funny how our words can come back to haunt us, isn’t it? Remember telling our children, “sit there until you eat all of that?”

Til ne t time. e safe.

From the Chamber

Chamber Events

Tuesday, June 6 at 10:00 a.m., is Legacy Inn

Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting. Join us on Tuesday, June 6 at 10:00 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 10:00 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.

Featured Businesses

Hawksbill Greenway Recreation Foundation, Luray, is a non-profit organization that works to keep

the Hawksbill Greenway a fun and safe space for the community. They work to promote community involvement in the continuing support of Luray’s Hawksbill Greenway and it’s park system. Learn more at http:// hawksbillgreenway.org, 540-6690318, or hawksbillgreenway@gmail.com.

Lancaster Enterprises, 1 Mechanic Street, Luray, is a local lawn and yard equipment store. They offer Equipment rental, sales, and service, Stihl, Snapper, Briggs, Techumseh, and Kohler warranty and repair. You can learn more about what they have to offer by visiting https://lancasterenterprises.stihldealer.net, emailing lancasterent@embarqmail.com, or calling 540-743-4707

Card Showers

Lois A Freeze — May 26

SkyView Springs Nursing Home Room# 106 30 Montvue Dr Luray Va 22835

Joyce A Dofflemyer — May 28

115 Power Dam Rd

Luray Va 22835

“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.

Artwork at the Artisans

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.

Art

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

Beautiful pottery by artists Jim Lieb, Reese Miller, & Cathie Miranda, sculptures by Lis Sabol & Victoria Britto, linocut/prints by Charmaine Shaw.

throughout the Gallery.

Gallery Information 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.

May 25 Big Spring Mennonite Church, 2545 Mims Road, Luray, VA 22835 will host a community seminar, “Understanding Credit and Loans”, at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 25 at the church. Byron Pellecer, a community development and loan officer at Everence Federal Credit Union, will e plain how to establish good credit to create

Ukrainian soldiers learning English

A community member is collecting books for Ukrainian soldiers learning nglish. o es will be in the libraries from May 1

better opportunities for accessing loans in the future.

May 26

Luray United Methodist Church is hosting a “Fun Night of Games” for adults and children from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Meal consists of pork BBQ, pigs in a blanket, mac and cheese, baked beans, salad, and

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

to June 30.

Below is a list of books that are wanted:

• Military Manuals

• First Aid/Paramedic Manuals

• World War ll History (European Theater)

Wonderful selection of clothing by Charleen Johnston & jewelry by Susan Latta & Susan Rocke.

Very nice selection and price range of artwork

Community Events 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

• Books by Dr. Seuss

• “Hand, Hand, Fingers, Thumb” by Al Perkins

• To read to children.

The libraries are: Elkton Community Library

Monday & Wednesday:

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

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.

11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Friday: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Grottoes Branch Library

Monday – Thursday: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Contributed Photo by Lora Jenkins

The Shenandoah VFW Avis O Comer Post 8613 Auxiliary will be the Grand Marshals of the annual Town of Shenandoah Memorial Festival parade, which begins 4 p.m. Saturday, May 27, and runs down Maryland Avenue onto First Street in the Town of Shenandoah.

Gabriele Paonessa/PNC

Monday evening at the Luray Community Garden, a collaboration with the Virginia Co-Op, Page Public Library, Page Alliance for Community Action (P.A.C.A.), and the Rec gave children of all ages the opportunity to learn how to plant. Overall, there were 19 children in attendance at the event. The Community Garden is in its third year of providing fruits and vegetables to community members. Garden events like this run from March to October behind the rehabilitation center next to Page Memorial Hospital.

This Week in History

PN&C To Publish Solunar Tables For Fishermen

By special arrangement with John Alden Knight, noted sportsman and creator of the solunar tables the Page News and Courier has arranged to publish each week, beginning June 2, his computations for the Shenandoah River in Paige County

The solunar tables list the daily times when fish are most active and therefore most likely to bite as compared to other times of that particular day. This does not mean that the fish will feed, says Mr. Knight, or that you will return with a full creel or game pocket. It does mean that the solunar tables will tell you, in advance, what time of each day of the year you can e pect to find the best in sport which that day has to offer.

The solunar tables for each day of the week will be carried on the sports page of the Page News and Courier each week during the fishing season and e tended if well received. It will be sponsored by Harlin’s Cutrate Store for the present.

According to Mr. Knight, this unexplained periods of activity among fish the odd hour feeding periods, have been a puzzle to sportsmen for generations. We know, of course, that dawn and

dusk are normal periods of activity. Those are the times when, as a friend once phrased it, the day shift knocks off and the night shift goes to wor , or vice versa. ll of us plan to take advantage of those speeding hours at dawn and dusk. ut the odd hour periods which occurred during the day and night must be stumbled upon by luck unless we have a guide. That is where the solunar tables come into play.

Having spent years of research and scientific study to develop solunar tables to their present state of efficiency, night still devotes much of his time to studying their use in the fields and streams, the latter to advise his millions of newspaper readers.

Stories of the accuracy of the tables continue to pour in from newspaper readers and many persons who have devoted a lifetime to improved hunting and fishing have contributed to knight’s research on the use of the tables.

The tables, doubted by many in the beginning, have come to be highly respected by nearly all sportsmen and certainly by all sportsmen who have tested them to any extent.

Mr. Knight’s own comment ays Mr. night f you are familiar with the solunar tables and their uses, no doubt you will find little here that you do not already know. However, it is probable that you will find here-in some things that will interest you.

ac in 6 the Florida fishing guide told me some folklore that that had been told to him by his grandfather, a Georgia market hunter.

Those old-timers used to plan their fishing and shooting trips according to daily moon positions. When the moon was directly overhead or directly underfoot, those were the times when all wildlife was most active in moving in search of food.

Moon up-moon down that was a rule if you wanted fish and game. With a market hunter it is important that time spent in the outdoors shall produce maximum results in terms of fish and game. Accordingly, they planned their trips by using the moon up-moon down roll and profited greatly by doing so.

y applying modern scientific nowledge to word-of-mouth folklore, the solunar theory was

brought into being. The word solunar is a trade name coined for convenience from the words ‘solar’ and ‘lunar.’

fter some years of e periment we found that the sun plays its part in the calculations and that the relatively daily positions of the heavenly bodies the sun, thw moon and the earth must be taken into account. radually, over a period of almost 25 years, we have learned to predict the daily behavior of fish and wildlife with a surprising degree of accuracy.

The lunar day is longer than the solar day, being comprised of 24 hours and 50-odd minutes. Because of this, there are times each month when the four daily solunar periods do not uite fit themselves into the 24-hour solar day. When this happens, you will find a blan space in the weekly schedule of solunar period.

The solunar periods themselves are divided into two groups ma or periods and minor periods.

The ma or periods last for approximately two hours, while the minor periods are of somewhat shorter durations. However don’t make the mistake of considering

the minor periods of lesser importance. Often the best spirt of the entire day is confined in those short spaces of time.

hether or not you have learned of things as solunar tables, you have seen them in operation many times if you have done much fishing or shooting.

hile fishing, after a protracted period of inactivity, you have seen the fish suddenly come to life and bite ravenously for an hour or so, only to return to their former state of indifference at the close of the feeding period.

hile hunting you will begin to find game in every cover and this will continue for two hours or three hours. Then the game will return to hiding in its protective cover and the good shooting will terminate. Those are the sole lunar periods.

f course we can t guarantee you good fishing or good shooting every day you go out. There are too many offsetting factors to allow that. Regardless of the solunar tables, you will continue to have your good days and your bad days and that is as it should.

This story was originally Published in the Page News and Courier May 26, 1955.

* At just 15 years old, actor Sylvester Stallone’s classmates voted him “most likely to end up in the electric chair.”

* One day in 1930, the BBC announced on air that “there is no news,” and played piano music.

* Fulmars, a type of seabird, vomit putrid fishy oil on predatory birds in self-defense, which not only smells awful but is lethal to the attackers, as it permanently glues their feathers together.

* If viewed from space or a high altitude, the sun appears to be white.

* Larry Lemieux, a Canadian sailor at the 1988 Olympics, was about to win a silver medal when he abandoned the race to save two other competitors whose boat had capsized. While he lost the silver medal, he was given the Pierre de Coubertin medal for sportsmanship.

* A hydrangea flower’s color is determined by the relative acidity of the soil in which it’s grown: Acidic soil will produce a blue flower, while alkaline soil will yield a pink blossom.

* The Sami people of Northern Finland have a unit of measurement called the “poronkusema”-- the distance a reindeer can walk before it needs to urinate.

* Had a solar eruption happened nine days earlier than it did in 2012, the Earth would have been hit by a massive solar storm that would likely have caused major X-ray and UV radiation and power failure over the planet. It also would likely have cost trillions of dollars and taken four to10 years to recover from. Timing really is everything!

* The hotel that inspired Stephen King to write “The Shining” plays the Stanley Kubrick film of the same name on a continuous loop on channel 42 for guests.

***

Thought for the Day: “Great opportunities to help others seldom come, but small ones surround us every day.”

-- Sally Koch

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

2. In 1 Timothy 5:23, what did Paul suggest to Timothy for his frequent ailments? Water, Wine, Bread, Honey

3. From Genesis 41:41-42, which Hebrew became prime minister of Egypt? David, Joseph, Nehemiah, Joel

4. Where did Jesus spend his youth as found in Luke 4:16? Smyrna, Tarsus, Antioch, Nazareth

5. Who was stoned to death in the valley of Achor? Abinoam, Achan, Ahilud, Abitub

6. Jesus and who else walked on water? Thomas, Andrew, Peter, James

ANSWERS: 1) Old, 2) Wine, 3) Joseph, 4) Nazareth, 5) Achan, 6) Peter (Matthew 14:29)

Contributed Photo

New Virginia Community College System Chancellor makes stop at Laurel Ridge Community College

From PNC Staff Reports

Laurel Ridge Community College had a very special visitor on the Middletown Campus on Tuesday. Dr. David Doré, the Virginia Community College System’s new chancellor, embarked on a listening tour April 4, just his second day on the job, a press release stated.

Laurel Ridge was Dr. Doré’s 18th campus stop. There are 23 colleges in the VCCS, and he is expected to make his 22nd and 23rd visits on Tuesday, May 9, at Rappahannock and Germanna community colleges, the press release stated.

“Our visits have been fast-paced, but it was one of my top priorities to see our colleges and start getting to know our people and our students as soon as possible,” said Dr. Doré, whose most recent position had been as president of campuses and executive vice chancellor for student experience and workforce development at Pima Community College in Tucson. “It’s been exhilarating to see Virginia’s beautiful countryside and her incredible and rich diversity.”

Dr. Doré, a first-generation college student, has nearly three decades of experience in the community college field. While he has served as an executive vice chancellor, president and dean, he has also worked as an instructor, director and a department chair, the press release stated.

At Laurel Ridge, Dr. Doré took a tour and had conversations with students, faculty and staff, administrators and community and industry representatives. He had the opportunity to explore the newly expanded trades

and mechatronics lab space in lson . mith all, fly a drone and see the cybersecurity lab, speaking with students and faculty along the way, the press release stated.

“We really enjoyed welcoming Dr. Doré to campus this week and introducing him to all Laurel Ridge does to ensure student success,”

Laurel Ridge President Kim Blosser said. “We share his mission of ensuring every single Virginian feels welcome and valued on our campuses.”

Before wrapping up his tour at the college, Dr. Doré met with representatives from various businesses, industries and community organizations from the region.

“I’m really interested in hearing what are the things that are top of mind for you, not so much specifically for Laurel Ridge, but for our system,” he said to them. “What are the things that you think I really need to be focusing on as I’m embarking upon this new position? We’ve got some exciting work ahead. We’ve got some challenges ahead.”

Several attendees spoke about the need to erase any lingering stigma around career and technical education. Top of Virginia Regional Chamber CEO Cynthia Schneider, herself a Laurel Ridge alumna, said the VCCS could help change this, suggesting a slogan along the lines of “all work is honorable.”

“It was wonderful to welcome Dr. Doré to Laurel Ridge to meet our students,” said Dr. Caroline Wood, associate vice president of student services and academic support. “We are thrilled he listened to what was on their minds, while also sharing his vision for the VCCS.”

Pictured are some of the middle schoolers that competed in the Amazing Shake.

Middle school students compete in Amazing Shake Competition

From PNC Staff Reports

Peter Muhlenberg Middle School held its inaugural PMMS Amazing Shake Competition for eighth grade students April 21.

The competition was the culmination of ten weeks of lessons and challenges meant to develop 21st-century interpersonal skills. Students learned manners, discipline, respect, and professional conduct. They were taught how to give a proper handshake, remain composed under pressure, and more, a press release stated.

Over the ten weeks of lessons, teachers and school staff evaluated students and chose the top 40

students to participate in the final competition. These students put their skills to the test in a series of challenge stations manned by community volunteers. Each station presented a different scenario that required effective communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Students were evaluated on a 1–10 scale at each station. Scores were combined to determine the winning students, who will be treated to a field trip, the press release stated.

The list of student winners is below.

Student Winners:

1st: Bryce Everett

2nd: (tie) Kassidy Leake

& Adrian Dandridge

3rd: Nicolaus Pedersen

4th: Anna Ritenour

5th: Cullen Stanley

6th: (tie) Jocelyn McInturff & Parker Neff

Principal Ryan Lingle said, “Our students have worked incredibly hard to develop their skills throughout the last ten weeks, and we are so proud of their accomplishments. We also appreciate all the community volunteers who made this competition possible.”

The list of community volunteers is below.

Community Volunteers:

Billy Smelser — VECCA and Laurel Ridge Community College

Matthew Strosnider —

Shenandoah Music, Inc.

Tony Pregent — James River Equipment

Carol Nansel — VCE — Shenandoah Co. 4-H

Stuart Leake — Preslee Real Estate

Grace Eberly — Funkhouser Real Estate Group

Allie Coffey — Funkhouser Real Estate Group

Jason Miller — First Bank & Trust Company

Steve Wood — Town of Edinburg, Pastor

Anita Rhodes — Johnston & Rhodes Real Estate

Jim Hepner — Community volunteer, 4-H volunteer

To learn more about The Amazing Shake, visit https://www.theamazingshake.com/

Central High FFA hosts awards banquet

From PNC Staff Reports

WOODSTOCK — The 2023 Central FFA Banquet was held Thursday, May 11, at Central High School, according to a press release.

Following dinner in the cafeteria, the 260 guests visited displays in the Agricultural Education Department. The program concluded in the gym with a recognition ceremony, the press release stated.

Below is a list of awards and highlights from the event.

Central High School

Athletic Director Justin Broughman and Bookkeeper Noeline Bowen were named Honorary Chapter Members.

Tractor Supply received the Distinguished Service Award.

chool esource fficer Cain Harbison received the Appreciation Award.

Lane Stephens received the Dekalb Outstanding Senior Award.

Bailey Sheetz received the Leadership Award.

Zachary Cooper received

the Blue & Gold Award.

Benjamin Walters earned the Chapter Scholarship Award and a scholarship for $200.

Lane Stephens received the Central Young Farmer Scholarship for $1,000.

Freshman Tavion Dodson was awarded the Derwood Myers Award for being the outstanding ninth-grade member.

Forty FFA members received their Chapter FFA

Degrees:

James Bilbow

Grant Bowman

Serenity Burnshire

Chris Campbell

Jackson Cave

Keyoda Dellinger

Ella Dodson

Tavion Dodson

Isabella Edman

Trenten Fadeley

Justin Fletcher

Andrew Folk

Daniel Freakley

Vanessa Gordon

Ryan Helsley

Kayla Hodson

Taylor Hollar

Austin Hosaflook

Caden Hosaflook

Hunter Hottle

Mallory Hutton

Logan Kibler

Morgan Marston

Quinn Neff

Jacob Reedy

Victor Reynoso

Faith Saffell

Joseph Sherman

Emma Stickley

Bridgett Stiefel

Keriana Stottlemyer

Mckinzie Sullivan

Pablo Vicente

Gavin Wazelle

Tianna Wells

Luke Whetzel

Alexis Wisecarver

Hadley Witherow

Brenden Wren

Colton Wren

Sophomore Taylor Leland received the Dare to Grow Award challenging her to continue her efforts in career development events and encouraging others to follow.

The retiring officers presented a slide show summary of the year and were presented with retiring officer certificates.

The new 2023-24 chapter officers were named and installed.

President: Bailey Sheetz

Vice Presidents: Nathanael French, Taylor Jennelle, Taylor Leland, Brooke Ray

Secretary: Faith Sortzi

Treasurer: Ava Holloman

Reporter: Keriana Stottlemyer

Sentinel: Dara Trail

Zachary Cooper and Benjamin Walters were announced as State Degree candidates.

The five members who will receive their American FFA Degree at the National Convention in November are:

Reagan Bowman

Ashley Bushong

Lindsey Hamrick

Emma Hockman

Shyann Jordan

“This is the largest turnout we have had in the last four years,” says Central FFA Advisor Sherry Heishman. “I am especially proud of the number of Intro to Animal Systems students who participate in all chapter activities. Parents have also been very supportive and encouraging students to try new events.”

Grace Knighton of Shenandoah Named to CSC Academic All-District Team

From PNC Staff Reports

BRIDGEWATER — Six members of the Bridgewater College tennis program were named to the College Sports Communicators Academic All-District teams announced by the association on May 9, according to a press release stated.

Grace Knighton, Emma Nesselrodt, Ryan Roeber and Emily Wylie received the honor on the women’s side while Mark Gordon and Matthew Leonard earned the accolade on the men’s side, the press release stated.

In order to qualify, student-athletes must maintain a 3.50 cumulative GPA or higher while participating in at least half of the matches on the schedule and attending their respective institution for over a calendar year, the press release stated.

nighton finished off her sophomore campaign with a 7-6 singles record including a 7-5 mark at No. 4. The Shenandoah, Va., native notched six doubles wins on the campaign including five at the No. 2 slot.

Nesselrodt saw action at the top spot for BC in both singles and dou-

bles action. The Mount Crawford, Va., native posted a 5-10 record at No. 1 doubles along side Roeber.

Roeber wrapped up her junior season with an 8-7 overall singles mark, including a 6-5 posting at No. 5 singles for the Eagles. Hailing from Catlett, Va., the junior picked up a win in her only appearance at No. 3 doubles to go along with her action with Nesselrodt at the top spot.

ylie finished her third season at BC with a 7-8 overall singles mark, including a 3-1 record at No. 5 singles. The junior from Elkton, Va., was the only Eagle to

cross the 10-win threshold as she picked up double-digit doubles victories with seven of them coming at the No. 3 spot.

Gordon, of Waynesboro, Va., and Leonard of Mechanicsville, Va., both wrapped up their sophomore seasons with the Crimson & Gold after seeing a tremendous increase in roles from a season ago. Gordon picked up three wins at No. 3 singles while Leonard picked up a pair of victories at the No. 2 slot.

The six selections moves Bridgewater’s total to 29 on the 2022-23 academic year. The total is the largest in a single school year in the

department’s history. All six Eagles are eligible for Academic All-America status that is currently open for voting by CSC members. The Academic All-America teams will be announced on May 31 for the men and June 1 for the women, the press release stated.

Bridgewater College is a private, four-year liberal arts college located in the Central Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Founded in , it was the state s first private, coeducational college. Today, Bridgewater College is home to approximately 1,450 students, the press release stated.

Contributed Photo by Laurel Ridge New VCCS Chancellor Dr. David Doré tries out a drone during his visit to Laurel Ridge this week.

Come out to help build Officer Winum’s memorial playground

By PAUL SEBASTIAN Page News and Courier Columnist

It’s been more than two years since Stanley Police officer Dominic ic inum was illed in the line of duty. t s up to us ma e sure his death was not in vain and his life will never be forgotten. e can all do that ne t wee by helping to build a playground in his honor.

To that end, citi ens in the community have partnered with the charity here ngels lay Foundation to build a playground at aw sbill ool in tanley in fficer inum s honor. n addition to fficer inum s family and widow, ara, other tanley residents leading the campaign to fund

Events FROM PAGE A2

dessert. Free will offerings for missions of the church. eservations reuested, but not needed. all the church office at -7 -6 for more information.

ru -in on First treet, henandoah, 6 p.m. p.m. ponsored by Jr s Tire ervice.

Flag etirement by oy cout Troop eterans ar irginia venue, henandoah, 7p.m. p.m.

May 27 ew to this year s Memorial Festival, hosted by the town of henandoah, will be a craft show and yard sale on aturday, May 7.

paces are available for , with a charge for food vendors. To register or for more information, contact obbi Jo ood at-6 or email renda aggett at efgva yahoo. com.

Dog Show Carnival Grounds between econd and Third treet, henandoah, a.m. to a.m. . registration fee due the day of Dog how. wards for Most atriotic, est oo li e, est Tric , and est in how. For more information call Diane hifflett - 7 - 7.

Yard and Bake Sale

henandoah entecostal oliness hurch henandoah venue, henandoah,

Ongoing

FROM PAGE A2

Friday a.m. p.m.

Shenandoah Community Library

Tuesday Thursday a.m. 6p.m. aturday a.m. p.m.

Gardening advice, plant clinics and free garden talks

The orthern henandoah alley Master ardener ssociation will hold free plant clinics from a.m. p.m. on the second and fourth aturdays from pril through ctober at Massanutten ountry orner, 6 . . wy. est, uray.

esidents are invited to stop by and get help to diagnose a plant pest or disease to identify a plant, bug or weed or to get planting or landscaping advice. The plant clinic schedule includes May 7, June and , July and , ug. and 6, ept. and , and ct. and . ach plant clinic will also include a garden tal at a.m. with a different topic each time May 7 is about nnuals s. erennials . esidents with uestions may also contact the irginia ooperative tension ervice in tanley at -77 - 7 .

and build the playground are atric andford, ob and Mary ierro and hristi osley a er. andford, who moved to the area after retiring from the harleston, outh arolina, Fire Department, understands the terrible effect a line of duty death can have on a community. andford and the FD lost nine fire fighters in the June 7 ofa uper tore fire the deadliest fire fighter disaster since . moved to tanley to escape tragedy and leave those memories behind, andford told me, but when fficer inum was illed around the corner from my house, and heard about the generosity of his family toward ic s iller, new had to

a.m.- p.m.

Car/Truck/Tractor Show uincy venue, henandoah, chec out the classic cars, truc s, and tractors a.m. p.m.

Motorcycle Cruz-in

First treet ll years, ma es and models welcome. a.m. p.m. For more information, please call renda aggett7 - or e-mail renda efgva yahoo.com

Petting Zoo Shenandoah anding and iver ar , Morrison oad, henandoah, a.m.- p.m. rampy s illage oo will be setting up a petting oo, come out and see all his cute animals.

Memorial Walk F , ost 6 vis . omer arina venue, henandoah, . a.m. ome and ta e a solemn wal to remember the soldiers who have been honored at the town s past Memorial Festivals.

Memorial Service

henandoah F , ost 6 vis . omer arina venue, henandoah, a.m. a.m. very year Mayor linton ucas, Jr. honors irginia soldiers who passed away while on active duty at a ceremony as a part of the Town s nnual M emorial Festival.

Book Sale henandoah ommunity ibrary .

Third treet, henandoah, a.m. p.m.

Children’s Parade

doah will have free outdoor movie nights this summer on First treet starting at p.m. on the lot ne t to First treet, henandoah, . The following films will be shown uca on June rain date June sponsored by the Town of henandoah Museum and elcome enter, Trolls on July rain date July sponsored by acey ngineering, and ncanto on ugust rain date ugust sponsored by . ring a blan et or lawn chair. opcorn and drin s provided while supplies last.

Stars Farmer’s Market

Daughter of the tars Farmer s Mar et will be open from a.m. to p.m. at the uray- age ounty hamber of ommerce ampbell treet, uray, on the third aturdays of the month from June to ovember which include June 7 , July , ugust , eptember 6, ctober , and ovember .

Movies on Main

The age Theater in uray will be offering free movies as part of Movies on Main. Free popcorn will also be provided for the first people. Movies will be shown at 6 p.m. on Tuesdays as follows June , July , ug. , ept. , ct. , ov. 7 and Dec. .

do what could to help.

o he contacted ill avin, a retired fire fighter from the li abeth, ew Jersey, fire department and the founder of here ngels lay. fter andford told avin about fficer inum s story, avin agreed to help build a playground for the community of tanley. ince then, the community has raised more than , , which included generous donations from the sandwich store Jersey Mi e s ubs, a long-time corporate supporter of first responders. andford and avin epressed their ama ement at how much money such a small community raised to support such a noble cause. here ngels lay had its origins following the

henandoah anding iver ar Morrison oad, henandoah, . p.m. hildren will ta e to the wal ing trac dec ed out in their most patriotic finery. They may also decorate their bi es, wagons, or strollers. ponsored by the Daughters of the merican evolution henandoah iver hapter Parade come and oin us for an old-fashioned parade p.m. p.m. ortions of oute , Maryland venue, First treet, and irginia venue will be bloc ed off for this event. To register your float or group in the parade, please call renda aggett -7 - or e-mail renda efgva yahoo.com endor raft how ard ale Food endors are needed at the henandoah Machine hop par ing lot located at ulas i venue. . for a space and for food vendors. For more information call renda aggett7 - or obbi Jo ood - -6 a.m.p.m.

June 3 t 7p.m., Juanita hillips will be performing hristian songs at lue idge entecostal hurch, 767 Dovel ollow d., tanley, a. . t s free admission. nyone with uestions can contact astor Jac ampbell inger at -77 - . hrist piscopal hurch

Main Street Baptist Church Vacation Bible School

Theme T T and T June - , 6 M- M yrs- th rade

T T M T acation ible chool pin the spinner, beat the cloc , s ip ahead, level up, and play to win ou ll need to bring your -game for this . Twists Turns is a fantastical celebration of games of all inds. From classic tabletop games to video games and more, ids will play their way through . . . 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.

dual catastrophes in of urricane andy and the andy oo lementary chool shooting. ccording to the foundation s website, avin s idea was to build 6 playgrounds in urricane andy-destroyed communities one to honor the memory of each student and teacher lost in the shooting. The playgrounds were constructed by fire fighters, police officers, teachers, school administrators, and community volunteers. andford, who has volunteered at several playground build sites up and down the ast oast, tells me that fficer inum s playground will be the foundation s 6 nd playground. n important aspect to the Foundation, he says, is the fact that many

is holding its annual yard sale from a.m.- p.m. on aturday, June . Follow the signs to our arish all at 6 miss ve., uray. n addition to many must have treasures for sale, we are again selling chic en barbe ue in the church par ing lot for 6 half available at a. m. ll profits are donated to local charities.

June 9 eventh Day dventist hurch chool at hurch venue in tanley, will be having its annual yard sale on June starting at a.m.

June 10 arden over s Day at irdsong leasure arden ongs d. uray. osted by the ill and alley arden lub. a.m.- p.m. Tic ets are . There will be garden tours, plant sales, door pri es, l migo food truc , isteria ineyard wine, and local artisans. roceeds benefit local high schools nvironmental cholarship, maintenance of the ld ounty emetery, and other local pro ects. ome oin us for this fun event ay at the door cash or chec only no rain date. For more info -7 - www.birdsongpleasuregarden.info For free publication of community event notifications, send information to community@pagenewspaper.com.

Please contact the church at 7 - for more info

Cruz-In Fridays

The Town of Shenandoah has planned its schedule for ru - n Fridays on First treet. ponsored by the henandoah eritage enter, ru - ns are planned from 6- p.m. as follows May 6, part of the Memorial Festival June rain date June 6 July 7 rain date July ug. rain date ug and ept. rain date ept. . ll ma es, models and years are welcome no registration fee re uired. The evening also includes door pri es and a drawing. For more information, contact7 - .

A sincere thank you to everyone that attended the memorial service of Earl “Je ” Price Jr. on Saturday, April 22nd.

To Bethlehem Independent Church of Stanley, to all who called, texted, sent cards, provided food for the family & all the prayers. A special thank you to Anita’s Custom Florals, to Brandon Heishman for the music & slideshow of Earl’s life, to Rev. Jim Kite for the service & kind words & to Pastor Andy Seastrom for his love & support to Earl’s wife & daughter. Earl will be missed by many & forever in our hearts.

community members served by the Foundation pay it forward by helping to build at subse uent playgrounds.

pect to see volunteers from andy oo and other far-away places, andford said.

The playground, whose design was made with fficer inum in mind through the input of ara, will brea ground on May . nyone from the age ounty community is welcome to help in the construction any way they can, even if it is only by being present to share in the solidarity.

andford e tends an invitation to everyone in the community. ome out and support the family and pay tribute to inum s bravery and commitment, he said.

ic loved helping ids and being a police officer in our community, and this playground will serve the children of tanley as a safe place to play for years to come.

The build at aw sbill ool is scheduled to last from May to June , with the ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for aturday, June . fficer inum gave his life in service to the ideal he believed in a safe community for everyone to raise their children and live happy, peaceful lives. y eeping fficer inum in our hearts and helping to create a playground in his honor, we can ensure that we are doing our part to eep his memory and dream alive.

Letter to the Editor

Fellow nited tates iti ens and Friends s we all get busier with spring chores, there is one day that would hope that no one would forget.

Memorial Day

This day should hold a special place in every merican s heart. t is the day specifically set aside to honor the men and women of the . . rmed Forces who gave their lives for our country.

For the 6th consecutive year in henandoah, we will remember and honor all Veterans that made the ultimate sacrifice and laid down their lives for the freedoms each merican has now, honor all Veterans who withstood the forces of the enemy and survived, and honor eterans who continue fighting and serving us all so that we may remain free.

e hope you all will oin me in paying tribute

and honoring all eterans at a special Memorial ervice on aturday, May 7, at a.m. The event will be held inside the F vis . omer ost 6 in the Town of henandoah. eating is provided for all eterans. our attendance is etremely important, because it is a small way of than ing outstanding people that have done so much for us through their service in our armed forces, especially those that ma e the ultimate sacrifice. lease save the date to oin us at the henandoah F on aturday, May 7, , at a.m., as we honor those who have given so much. oo ing forward to seeing eterans and everyone interested in honoring eterans. incerely, linton . ucas, Jr., henandoah Mayor

Editor’s Note

The age ews and ourier 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.

SolomonEarlBruce,Jr. SolomonEarlBruce,Jr.,91, ofLuray,passedawayon

Friday,May19,2023.

KnownasBillyBruceby familyandfriends,hewas bornonAugust9,1931,in

Sperryvilleandwasasonof thelateSolomonE.Bruce Sr.andGertrudeRutherford

Bruce.

Heissurvivedbyhiswifeof 67years,BettyBruce,anda son,TedBruce.Hewas precededindeathbyasister, MaryEdnaFox.

Memorialcontributionsmay bemadetoanycharitable organizationwhosemission istohelpothersinneed.

KayAgnesPurdham

ToddPurdhamandBobbi Atkinson,andMichael PurdhamandwifeKellie,all ofLuray;fivebrothers, GeorgeRonnieGrayof Farmville,JerryLeonGray ofStanley,LarryMartin GrayofLuray,FranzEric GrayofLynchburg,and AlexEdwinGrayof Jacksonville,Fla.;asister, KathyFayeGrayofStanley; andfivegrandchildren, Jake,Nick,Luke,Tyand Ali.

KayAgnesPurdham,73,of Luray,passedawayon Saturday,May13,2023.

ShewasbornonNovember 10,1949,inLurayandwas adaughterofthelate GeorgeLeonGrayand AgnesComerGray.

KayretiredfromWrangler, with20yearsofservice.She hadalsoworkedattheABC storesinShenandoahand Luray,andatRuffner's FamilyDentistryinLuray. Sheissurvivedbytwosons,

Afuneralservicewillbe conductedat2p.m.on Saturday,May20,atthe BradleyFuneralHomeby PastorAndySeastrom,with visitationonehourpriorto theservice,from1-2p.m. BurialwillbeintheGraves ChapelCemeteryinStanley.

Memorialcontributionsmay bemadetotheStanley VolunteerRescueSquad, P.O.Box126,Stanley,Va. 22851,ortotheStanley VolunteerFireDepartment.

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

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

Blue Ridge Pentecostal Church, Stanley, Wednesday and Saturday services 7 p.m. 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.

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

Memorial Day is a time for remembering those brave men and women who died for our country so that we might continue to live in peace and freedom. ey are honored with public displays of our private grief with ceremonies and ags on their gravesites; they can also be honored by upholding the principles that they gave their last full measure to defend. We can make an e ort to live every day by the principles on which our great nation was founded. is Memorial Day, pay tribute to the brave citizens who have died for America, and thank God for their courage and contribution.

Leake’s Chapel Church of the Brethren, Sunday worship 11 a.m. For more information, contact Pastor Keith Higgs at 540-271-2978 or the church office at 540778-4151.

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

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 information, contact 540560-9422.

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

Galilee Christian Church celebrates its 150th anniversary

By MICKEY POWELL

For The Page News and Courier

CLEAR BROOK — Love is what keeps Galilee Christian Church going as many small, rural congregations struggle to attract and keep worshipers, two of its leaders believe. Not just members’ love for the church itself, but also their love for each other and their community, said Bryan Ruble, a deacon and the church’s historian.

“It’s a love and fellowship you don’t find in other churches,” Pastor Don Moulden added. The church at 1831 Welltown Road, northwest of Winchester, will celebrate its 150th anniversary during homecoming on Sunday morning.

About 40 people usually occupy the pews during most services, Moulden said. The church actually has about 80 members, he estimated.

The close-knit membership has fluctuated over the years.

However, “we’re showing some signs of turnaround,” Moulden said. “We’ve gotten some new members recently. We’re optimistic” the growth will continue.

Current members include people of all ages. Yet there aren’t as many in their 20s and 30s as there are younger and older people, the pastor noted.

Some members are ones whose families have attended for many years.

Mounted in the church’s foyer is a black-and-white photo of the congregation around the 1920s. Those pictured include Ruble’s great-grandmother, the late Clara Clevenger, he gleefully pointed out during an interview.

Her father, the late James T. Clevenger, was among the church’s founders, a group of Christians from various denominations who decided to worship together. Initially, they held services in an abandoned house, according to Moulden.

In 1873, the elder Clevenger donated part of his land for the church building and a cemetery.

The initial building was 16 feet by 30 feet.

As the congregation grew, the building was replaced by one 31 feet by 52 feet, constructed at the same location between 1888 and 1893.

Part of the brick structure was damaged by a tornado during the early 1900s, history compiled by Ruble shows, but it eventually was refurbished to its original condition.

Still in use today, the building underwent various renovations and expansions throughout the 20th century. Among them were the additions of a basement and restrooms, the installation of electricity and air-conditioning, and the construction of a stone fence around the church and the cemetery.

A decade ago, a fellowship hall was erected.

“That’s our biggest asset for the community,” said Ruble. It enables Galilee to hold outreach efforts such as monthly pancake breakfasts. Ruble, 50, has put a lot of time and effort in recent years into preserving the church’s history

well as the building and grounds.

Photo Credit: istockphoto/colb

More crowds means more volunteers, and there were about 40 volunteers from the Luray Fire Department. The volunteers dedicated their time on Saturday evening, from helping in the parking lot, to the concession stands, to taking care of the track.

“We always have a good turn out, a lot of people love our track,” stated Miles Snyder, a uray volunteer firefighter, interstate tech and flagger for the pull.

But when asked about how the group found other musicians to accompany as guests, “They are friends of mine, I’ve known for a while. They are wonderful musicians and I thought it would be a nice compliment to the group,” stated Nina Bohrod, who sings as an alto in the choral group. The proceeds gathered for the concert all goes back into the choral group, helping to purchase sheet music, their performance shirts, any advertising they may do and any venue fees they may encounter. The singers are open to perform at local events and non-profit functions as the

to her grandfather.

This year, 36 were registered for the interstate sanctioned classes, and 28 were registered for the non-sanctioned classes, with participants traveling from other parts in Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

A truck and tractor pull isn’t much of an event without the pullers, however, the entire event would not be possible without the sponsors. So many local and out of state businesses sponsored the event, which helped pay for the sanctions

entire group and smaller ensembles. The Main Street Singers are an auditioned group and are always looking for new members. Auditions will be held early next year. However, the group is immediately looking for auxiliary volunteers to help with any upcoming events they are involved in. The group can be best contacted on their Facebook page, https:// www.facebook.com/MainStreetSingers, to get any further information on these above things.

As the concert came to a close, the faces on the members of the Main Street Singers was nothing short of joy. Being showered with love from

Bridgewater College recognizes students’ music excellence

From PNC Staff Reports

BRIDGEWATER — Owen Angell and Leisha Nissley were recognized for excellence in the Department of Music at Bridgewater College, a press release from the college stated.

and the prize money for the winners. The sponsorship prize money paid the top 10 participants.

There is just something about sitting in the bleachers, eating some popcorn, drinking a sweet tea, while watching the trucks and tractors compete, seem like summer is almost here, attendees said.

“I’ve been flagging for 40 plus years, and I love it,” stated Snyder, and the many people who attended the truck and tractor pull would agree.

a standing ovation, it was clear how proud the singers were of their performance.

Angell was presented with the Future Music Educator Award, given to a rising sophomore or junior who demonstrates exceptional musicianship and scholarship and who shows a strong commitment to music education.

Angell is a sophomore music education major from

Rocky Mount, Va., who plays the euphonium. He is a member of many ensembles in the music department including Symphonic Band, Jazz Band, Screamin’ Eagles Marching Band, Tuba Choir, Brass Quintet, Guitar Ensemble, Brass Band and the Concert Choir, the press release stated.

After graduating from BC, Angell hopes to teach high school band or choir to help students grow their skills as both musicians and young adults, the release stated.

Nissley was presented

with the Nelson T. Huffman Award for Musical Excellence. Selected by the music faculty, this award is given to seniors who have excelled both musically and academically. The award honors the late Nelson T. Huffman, a longtime professor and chair of the department of music. Made possible by Huffman’s children, it includes a cash prize and the winner’s name is engraved on a plaque that hangs in the department of music, the release stated.

Girls Tennis: Region 2B Semifinals

Eagles crush Draft, clinch Class 2 state berth

By CODY ELLIOTT

For The Page News and Courier

ELKTON Facing an unfamiliar opponent for the first time this season, first-year East Rockingham head coach Michelle Hatton admitted there were some unknowns about her team’s response.

Prep Softball

It turns out the Eagles were just fine in a 5-0 rout of Stuarts Draft in the Region 2B girls tennis semifinals on Thursday in Elkton. With the win, East Rock clinched a berth in the upcoming Virginia High School League Class 2 state tournament and will face Central in the regional

Panthers rally to defeat Eagles, win Bull Run title

By DEAN BARKER

For The Page News and Courier

D fter five scoreless innings, the bats finally came alive.

Page County defeated East Rockingham 4-3 on Friday in Shenandoah, winning a thrilling rivalry game and capturing the Bull Run District regular-season title with an 11-1 record in league play.

“It’s great for the girls,” Panthers veteran head coach Alan Knight said after the victory. “It’s a great win for us because of who we just beat, because it’s East Rock and they’re very good. Secondly, it’s the come-from-behind [aspect], which was great for our kids.”

Junior pitcher Bailee Gaskins got the win for Page County, throwing a complete seven innings with three runs on 10 hits with no walks and six strikeouts. Senior Madison Arbaugh took the loss for East Rock, throwing 6.1 innings and giving up four runs on eight hits with one walk and four strikeouts.

“I knew I just needed to stay calm and limit the damage,” Gaskins said. “[I] just had to get outs, keep them off the board.”

The game looked like a pitcher’s duel right out of the gate, as Arbaugh allowed no more than two singles in the first five innings. as ins had a perfect game with three strikeouts until Arbaugh led off the top of the fourth with a single to center field. Junior Isabelle Cubbage reached on a grounder to shortstop, but Arbaugh was out at second. Senior Bria Berriochoa singled to left field, and enior Emma Cude’s double to left made the score 1-0 Eagles with two runners in scoring position.

That would be all, as Gaskins struck out the next two batters to escape. The Panthers threatened in the bottom half, as Gaskins reached on an error at shortstop and stole second, but she was caught stealing third to end the inning.

Senior Sarah Monger started the top of the fifth with a single to left, took second on an error, and then reached third on a wild pitch to put pressure on the Panthers. Junior Kendall Morris bunted to first, and the throw home would be late to push the lead to 2-0. Junior Emily Campbell then grounded out to first, and Morris pushed her luck in trying to take third and retired. Arbaugh doubled to left but was thrown out at home trying to score on a single from Cubbage.

The Eagles were at it again in the sixth, as Berriochoa led off with a double to center, reached third on a Cude groundout, and scored on a wild pitch. Senior Ashlyn Herring singled to right, but Gaskins retired the next two to end the threat. With one out in the bottom half, junior Arianna Roudabush and senior Jocelyne Rinker each doubled to cut the lead to two. as ins flew out to right and move Rinker to third, but that would be all, as Arbaugh ended the inning with a groundout.

title match.

“We didn’t know what to expect coming into today’s game, never having played Stuarts Draft this year, but we have been putting in the work at practice and were mentally prepared,” Hatton said.

Junior standout Ellen Waag

earned a 6-1, 6-2 win at No. 1 singles for the Eagles, while sophomore Loren Dinkel won 6-1, 6-0 at the No. 2 spot, junior Kate Simpkins earned a 6-0, 6-2 victory at No. 3, junior Olivia Rhodes was victorious by a 6-4, 6-0 score at No. 4 and senior Dannia Gomez Ibarra won

6-3, 6-4 at the No. 5 spot. Kaylee Hatton, a sophomore, was ahead 4-1 in the second set after winning the first one 6-2 in the No. 6 match before Gomez Ibarr’s win clinched the team victory.

“I’m extremely proud of how well the girls played yester -

Williams provides consistency, leadership for East Rockingham Eagles

By CODY ELLIOTT For The Page News and Courier

ELKTON — It would have been easy for Ryan Williams to express his frustration.

The standout multi-sport East Rockingham athlete has been a steady, consistent force on the diamond since his freshman year in Elkton. It’s been the type of career any player is desperate to put together.

And his resume, which still isn’t complete, makes the type of player usually at the top of the order.

But Williams, a junior leader for the young Eagles, has been hitting in the No. 9 hole this season.

And while some would view that as a demotion, Williams has taken the spot and made it a weapon.

By CODY ELLIOTT

“He’s a key piece, especially in the No. 9 spot,” ERHS sophomore William Eppard said. “It’s always good to have a reliable hitter in order to get us back to the top of the lineup. He’s had a bunch of clutch, clutch hits. He’s very smart, and he’s a great infielder. He’s smooth and makes routine plays.”

Williams is one of the best defensive shortstops in the Shenandoah Valley and has been for years.

He’s an all-district basketball player, too, however, and that can slow his start in baseball season.

He admitted that the transition from hoops to the diamond is difficult, but he said this year’s team has allowed him to make it happen effortlessly as they’ve picked up the slack around him in many ways.

“It’s tremendously hard, especially when our basketball team is so good,” Williams said. “We go pretty long into the season, so I honestly feel like I’m just hitting my stride. My hitting and fielding in baseball in general is just really hard to get right during basketball season. It’s better now, though.”

Williams has been one of many Eagles hitting the ball extremely well recently.

East Rock has blossomed after struggling as a team throughout illiams first two seasons.

The Eagles head into the Bull Run District Tournament as the No. 2 seed, and Williams, one of the more experienced players on the field for , will be a big reason why in the No. 9 hole.

outfielder in final year

Prep Baseball

Daniel Lin / For the PNC

Broadway’s Maya Bacon takes a shot against Turner Ashby.

Farris, Diamondbacks take down Bucks in opener

By CODY ELLIOTT

For The Page News and Courier

The Rockingham County Baseball League kicked off its 2023 season Monday.

And it was a classic, old-school rivalry game getting things underway as Stuarts Draft made the trip to Buck Bowman Park in Dayton to take on Clover Hill in the RCBL season opener for both teams.

The game was a backand-forth affair, and the Bucks appeared to be in control after a five-run third inning that gave the home team a two-run lead, but the Diamondbacks re-

as a reliable everyday starter for ERHS.

After years of struggling with consistency, she earned her shot at playing time this season and has taken full advantage, emerging as one of the team’s top players, especially at the plate.

“She has really stepped up into her role this year,” Berriochoa said about Monger’s improvement. “She’s really taken it on strong and is going at it hard. I’m just really proud of her.”

Monger has been solid all season for East Rock but was especially big just last week.

On a night when the program honored its five seniors, Monger has arguably her best game.

She finished 3-for-3 with five RBIs, including a game-ending grand slam, as the Eagles earned an impressive 14-2 five-inning blowout victory over Bull Run District opponent Mountain View.

“The past couple of years, I haven’t really got a lot of playing time,” Monger said after practice in Elkton on Monday. “But this year, I start every game, and I knew I was going to have to step up.”

Monger has done just that, and it’s been pivotal for an East Rock team with special potential.

The Eagles entered Tuesday’s game against Clarke County tied with Page County atop the Bull Run District standings. East Rock defeated the Panthers earlier this season, with the rematch Friday.

While players such as Arbaugh, Cude, Berrio-

“It’s a new spot for me,” Williams said. “The whole lineup has changed since last year, so everybody must keep working, including myself. I just hit every day, try to go home, and hit each day. I encourage a lot of these guys to go home and hit and just stay working. That’s key for all of us.”

If Williams was frustrated with what some could see as a demotion with his spot in the lineup, he did what he’s always done and didn’t express it vocally. Instead, he simply went to work to get better.

It’s paid off for an East Rockingham team with serious potential to make postseason noise.

And with perhaps the best No. 9 hitter in the area, the Eagles know that Williams is a big reason why.

“Ryan is a tremendous athlete,” East Rockingham second-year head coach Jordan Biller said. “Everything he does is ath-

sponded appropriately.

Landon Lightner and Job Harrell, a pair of locals from Riverheads and Staunton who are now playing at Mary Baldwin, each connected on RBI doubles in the ensuing frame to knot the score back up at 5-5, and Ryan Farris ripped a two-run double in the seventh to give Draft the lead.

A wild pitch in the bottom of that frame allowed Clover Hill to cut the deficit back to one, Jacob Grabeel tossed two shutout innings of relief, allowing one hit and two walks with two strikeouts to close the game for the

Diamondbacks and clinch a big-time season-opening victory on the road.

RCBL veteran Chandis Goff earned the win on the mound with one scoreless frame in relief for Draft.

Farris, a former catcher at Riverheads High, went 2-for-5 with a trio of RBIs for Draft (1-0) in the win, while former Gladiators multi-sport standout Landon Lightner also went 2-for-4 with a run scored.

Harell had an RBI double for the Diamondbacks, while Caden Richter chipped in with a double.

For the Bucks (0-1), John Siciliano was 2-for-5 with a pair of RBIs as the

only Clover Hill player with multiple hits, while Luke Shifflett and Lucas Clark totaled a hit and an RBI in the home setback.

Draft returns to action

Tuesday, May 29 at Grottoes while Clover Hill hosts Elkton on Thursday.

Stuarts Draft 012 200 200 — 7 9 0

Clover Hill 005 000 100 —

670

Vernon, Mitchell (3), Goff (6), Shifflett (7), Grabeel (8), and Farris. Long, Waller (6), Conley (9), and Eberly. W — Goff (1-0). L —

Waller (0-1). SV — Grabeel (1). 2B — SD: Richter, Farris, Lightner, Harrell.

HBP — CH: Shifflett. RBI — SD: Farris (3), Dunsford, Harrell. CH: Clark, Shifflett, Siciliano (2), Quintanilla. SF — CH: Quintanilla. SB — SD: Farris. LOB — SD: 6. CH: 8.

6284

State

day,” Michelle Hatton said about the win.

East Rock (13-5) will face the Falcons in the regional title match in Woodstock on Wednesday. The two teams split the regular-season series, with each team earning a 6win at home, respectively.

“They did their job in allowing us to punch our ticket to the state tournament,” Michelle Hatton said. “For now, though, we are focused on the upcoming match against Central for a regional final.”

Contact Cody Elliott at 540-5746284 or celliott@dnronline.com |

Follow Cody on Twitter: @VTCody

choa, and Herring getting praised often — and deservedly so — Monger is the senior that has gone under the radar a bit but still managed to produce often.

“She’s had to step up a lot but I think she really stayed calm,” Cude said. “She didn’t get too big of a head and just kind of pushed through. She’s been what we needed and has been really big for us.”

Coming into the season, Monger said it was on her mind that she would have some added pressure.

She admitted she was ready but also said she tried to get as prepared as possible in the offseason.

“I was nervous because I wasn’t used to it, but I was ready to take on that role,” Monger said.

As the preseason practices got underway, the diamond in Elkton was quickly filled with talent.

From Arbaugh to Cude to Herring to Berriochoa, the Eagles have plenty of big-time names.

But both players and coaches in Elkton agreed this week that success isn’t possible without

Monger.

“It’s your senior year, right?” Monger said. “So it brings bigger responsibilities than you had in the past year. I’ve settled in a little bit and have just tried to be a good role model for everybody else. Hopefully, at the end of the year, that’s what everyone will remember me for doing.”

Contact Cody Elliott at 540-574-6284 or celliott@ dnronline.com | Follow Cody on Twitter: @VTCody

Panthers FROM B1

East Rockingham tried to add some insurance in the top of the seventh, with Morris and Arbaugh each hitting singles. With one out, Cubbage ground into a force play at second, putting runners on the corners for Berriochoa. She could not bring anyone home, as a groundout to Gaskins allowed the Panthers to escape.

Junior Emme Baugher led off the bottom of the seventh with a double to center and came home on a single from junior Savannah Shifflet to make it a one-run game. Sophomore Karleigh Austin singled to center, and freshman Ali Purdham walked to load the bases for junior Adryn Martin, who singled to center to tie the game. Roudabush hit a sacrifice fly to center for the first out, but ustin would beat the throw home to walk the game off.

run scored. Roudabush went 1-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored. Rinker and Martin were both 1-for-3 with an RBI. Austin went 1-for-2 with a run scored. Gaskins went 1-for-3. Purdham was 0-for-2 with a walk.

For the Eagles, Arbaugh was 3-for-4. Berriochoa was 2-for-4 with a run scored. Cude and Morris were both 1-for-3 with an RBI. Monger was 1-for-3 with a run scored. Cubbage was 1-for-4 with a run scored. Herring was 1-for-3.

The top-seeded Panthers (17-3, 11-2 Bull Run) will host Mountain View in the Bull Run District quarterfinals on Monday at 6 p.m. The o. agles -6,Bull Run) will host No. 7 Rappahannock County at 6 pm for their uarterfinal matchup.

Gaskins said her team must take it one game at a time to make a deep playoff run.

letic. Everything he does looks natural. He’s one of the hardest-working guys you will ever meet. It looks easy for him, but then he’ll go home and hit off the tee

for two hours to get better. He’s just one of those guys. He’s a quiet leader, doesn’t say anything. He leads with his work ethic and the impact he makes.

I wish I could have 25 of him.”

Page County had four runs (all earned) on eight hits with one error and five runners left on base. East Rockingham scored three runs (all earned) on ten hits with one error and stranded six.

For the Panthers, Baugher went 2-for-3 with a run scored. hifflet went 1-for-3 with an RBI and a

“We need to make sure we focus and not look too far ahead, because if we look too far ahead, once we look back to where we’re at in the moment, we ll find ourselves down in a game we can’t afford to lose,” Gaskins said.

“So we just have to make sure we take it one game at a time, win one game at a time, and we’ll go from there.”

FROM B1

Daniel Lin / For The PNC East Rockingham’s Ellen Waag sets up a serve to Stuarts Draft’s Rachel Liu.

Dean Barker / For The PNC

Members of the Page County softball team celebrate with the Bull Run District championship trophy.

Williams FROM B1

Monger FROM B1

Daniel Lin / For The PNC

East Rockingham’s Ryan Williams winds up at the plate.

Daniel Lin / For The PNC

East Rockingham’s Sara Monger takes off from third base in search of home plate.

Rockingham County Baseball League

Farris Lightner

Prep Track & Field: Bull Run District Championships

East Rock boys crush competition, win Bull Run title

By CODY ELLIOTT For The Page News and Courier

The performance displayed precisely the type of depth head coach Zach Mathias and the rest of the East Rockingham trac and field staff raved about during preseason interviews this season.

The Eagles left no doubt, scoring 192 points to cruise past the rest of the competition by triple digits to capture the Bull Run District boys team title at the championship meet at Strasburg on Wednesday.

Mountain View was the next closest boys team with 80 points, while Madison County scored 75. The Page County boys team placed fifth (59), while Luray was just behind in sixth place overall (56).

For the girls, Strasburg (145) brought home the win,

while Clarke County (118.5) and East Rockingham (118) were second and third. Luray (80.5) was fourth, and Page (50) was sixth.

The day belonged to the ERHS boys team, bringing home many first-place finishes.

Gabriel Wylie won the boys 100-meter dash (11.60) and 400 (51.05) while placing as runner-up in the 200 (23.85) for East Rock, while

amuel hifflett won the (2:02.53), Hayden Fox was victorious in the 3200 (10:09.90), Cal Robertson won the pole vault (12-06.00), and Christopher Wylie did his thing in the throwing events, earning gold in the shot put (50-05.00) and silver in discus (138-09.00).

Anthony Pataki (9-06.00) and Ryan Gerken (8-00.00) were second and third in pole vault behind Robertson, while

Xavia Brown was third in 300 hurdles (45.96) and second in the triple jump (43-00.00).

Trayvion Banks was third in the high jump (5-08.00) for the Eagles, Tyson Hindle was third in the long jump (1902.50), and Damien Durrette placed third in the triple jump with a leap of 38-09.00.

The Eagles also brought home gold in the 4x100 relay (Blake Morris, Pataki, Durrette, Brown), the 4x400 (Morris, Jude Randall Jacob Dean, hifflett , and the 4x800 (Cade Yancey, Randall, Dean, Fox).

Luray’s Drayvin Stevens finished as runner-up in the 100 (11.83), 400 (52.55), and long jump (19-03.00), while Davey Johnson won the 1600 (4:46.76) and was second in the 3200 (10:25.11). Eli Jones also finished third in the boys 800-meter run with a time of

Despite injury, Spiggle plays valuable role for Gobblers

By CODY ELLIOTT

For The Page News and Courier BROADWAY — There were moments when Drew Spiggle contemplated stepping back.

The 6-foot, 165-pound right-hander suffered a season-ending injury late last year during a game against Fort Defiance, resulting in him missing his entire senior season on the diamond at Broadway.

That would have produced a lack of motivation and eagerness to be around the game for most.

But for the soft-spoken, well-respected Gobblers captain, he knew that wouldn’t be the case.

“I think it’s important that I kind of be here and lift people up,” Spiggle said. “I went through a point where I was in a rough place, but that’s the culture we’ve built here. It’s a fun place to be in.”

Spiggle was a first-team All-Valley District selection a year ago and one of the area’s best arms.

For a Broadway team that was runner-up in the district this year, he would’ve been its No. 1 ace.

Instead, the Shenandoah signee has been relegated to a spot in the dugout, with a new coaching staff and a role restricted to simply providing support and encouragement to teammates this season.

“It’s awesome to have him in the dugout still,” Gobblers outfielder Hunter Deavers said. “He really helps pitchers develop, especially the younger guys. He helps them develop into solid starters, solid relievers. He really does know his stuff, and it’s awesome to have him in the dugout to help with that.”

George Laase, the firstyear Broadway head coach, hadn’t coached Spiggle before but wanted to keep the stand-

out pitcher around his team. Even if he couldn’t contribute, he knew he carried value.

“He’s a unique individual because many people in his situation wouldn’t stick around,” Laase said about Spiggle. “It was a major incident, and for him to put a plan together and go through everything he did and trust the process, it shows you how mature he is for his age. Man, I wish we could have had him in the rotation this year, but you know there’s a bigger goal, a bigger book he’s writing. This is just a small chapter. Shenandoah is getting an outstanding individual with some big-time talent.”

As the Gobblers prepare to take on district champion Spotswood in the Region uarterfinals on Friday, there’s no doubt having an arm like Spiggle on the mound would help in a ma-

2:06.31 for the Bulldogs.

Page County was led by Jacob Mart , who finished first in the high jump (6-00.00) and second in 110 hurdles (16.04), while teammate Brett Paul Campbell was third in 110 hurdles with a time of 16.77.

Mountain View’s Stuart Pirtle was electric, winning the boys 200 (23.20), 110 hurdles (15.46), 300 hurdles (41.36), long jump (20-10.00), and triple jump (44-07.50) to cap a big-time performance.

For the girls, Strasburg’s win was aided by victories in all three relays, along with first-place finishes from Macy Smith in the long jump (1801.50) and triple jump (3702.50), Maddy Dofermire winning the 300-meter hurdles (48.71), and Claire Keefe coming out on top in the 400 (1:00.50).

Clarke County got two

wins from Teya Starley in the 800 (2:25.63) and 1600

6. , a first-place effort in the 100 from Bailey Beard (12.96), and gold from Leah Kreeb in the high jump (500.00).

Central’s Asia Hoover brought home first place in the 200-meter dash with a time of 27.63, while Mountain View standout Jadyn Foster won the 3200 with an impressive time of 12:35.70.

For the East Rock girls, Shanna Robertson won the pole vault (7-04.00), while teammates Corrin McCoy (604.00) and Rachael Bing (5. finished ust behind her in second and third.

Emily Washington impressed, winning the shot put (33-03.00) and discus (10308.00), while Katelyn Martin was second in the 1600 (5:44.85), and Tahjanae Miller

was third in the triple jump (30-08.50).

For the Luray girls, Jaidyn McClung won the 100 hurdles (16.31) and was runner-up in the 300 hurdles (48.94), the long jump (6-02.00), and the triple jump (34-10.00), while Carolina Wood was second in the 3200-meter run (12:39.41) and nnah hitmer finished third in the 400-meter dash (1:03.07).

Landry Burns was second in the shot put (29-09.00) for Page, while Elizabeth Ramos was second in the discus (10305.00).

The Region 2B outdoor trac and field championships are scheduled for Wednesday at East Rock.

Contact Cody Elliott at 540-5746284 or celliott@dnronline.com | Follow Cody on Twitter: @VTCody

East Rock’s Waag claims regional title, advances to state

By JOHN BREEDEN

For The Page News and Courier

ELKTON — East Rockingham’s Ellen Waag became a regional champion on her home court.

Wang entered as the No. 3 seed and worked her way to the finals to ultimately take down the No. 1 seed in Central sophomore Mallory Hutton in a 6-3, 6-2 match to claim the Region 2B girls singles tennis championship Monday at ERHS.

jor way.

And the senior admitted that games such as these are when he especially misses suiting up.

“It’s been tough,” Spiggle said. “I’m missing what’s supposed to be the most fun and important year.”

Transitioning from leader on the field to emotional support has been challenging for Spiggle.

But based on what teammates and coaches say about him, he’s handled it almost perfectly this year.

As he now heads to the nationally-ranked Hornets next year, the hope is it benefits in the long run.

“He’s going to catapult forward into his college career,” Laase said. “I have no doubt he’ll be ready.”

Contact Cody Elliott at 540-574-

First-year ERHS head coach Michelle Hatton said Waag played it smart all day and beat her opponents by having them chase her shots around the court. Being a teacher at East Rock also, Hatton has seen Waag perform on the court and in the classroom.

“I’ve had Ellen in the classroom, so I already knew what an awesome person she is in general,” Hatton said. “She’s a good captain and brings the team together. As far as her playing, she’s always been smart.”

Waag said it was surreal to be the regional champion and felt she put on her best performance of the season. The junior knew what she had to do to pull out the win, having seen Hutton many times before.

“We’ve played two times

already this year and a lot last year,” Waag said. “I feel like we both know each other really well. I think I had to stay consistent and stay true to what I know and how I play.”

Waag quickly worked on Page County’s Faith Seal

6- , 6- in the uarterfinals. Hutton bested Buckingham County’s Sydney Brewster 6-1, 6-0 to advance to the semis. No. 2 Ava Pittington out of Mountain View defeated Clarke County’s Lily Hayton 6-1, 6-1; while Strasburg’s Olivia Hodges was victorious over Stuarts Draft’s Rachel Liu 6-2, 6- both in uarterfinal matches.

Waag took care of Pittington 6-4, 6-4 in the semifinals, while Hutton put together a 6-0, 6-2 rout of Hodges to advance.

Hutton felt she had a solid day on the court Monday, and she played her best against a familiar opponent in Waag. The sophomore said it was an honor to compete as the No. 1 seed and represent Central.

“I’m just glad I supported my school [Monday],” Hutton said. “I think I’ve grown a lot this year, from the beginning of the season to the end. I’ve grown mentally and physically. … I’m happy to see improvement.”

Central head coach Matt Smith is proud of the “stellar” season Hutton put together, noting Monday was her first career loss.

“She’s definitely a talented player,” Smith said. “She puts a lot of time in during the offseason. … She got a lot of experience last year at the No. 2 position. This year, jumping to No. 1 [and] to get this far, I’m super proud [and] I can’t be upset.”

It’s a surreal feeling for Waag knowing she’ll compete in the state tournament and she is looking forward to seeing what she can achieve.

“I’m really excited,” Waag said. “I didn’t think I’d be here at the beginning of the season. We play really great people, so it feels really good.”

With the attention now on the state tournament, Hatton said Waag stays calm, cool, and collected. Yet, she’s also calculated and smart; teams must be ready for her when she takes the court.

“She’s a force to be reckoned with,” Hatton said. “They need to be ready, and she’ll be ready as well.”

Broadway’s Drew Spiggle winds up a pitch to Spotswood in 2022.

Photos by Daniel Lin / For The PNC

Broadway’s Drew Spiggle delivers a pitch to Spotswood.

Girls Tennis: Region 2B Singles Championship

Daniel Lin / For The PNC

East Rockingham’s Ellen Waag takes a shot.

Pageant kings and queens smile through competition

By GABRIELE PAONESSA Page News and Courier

SHENANDOAH —The giddy and giggling kids of all ages greeted attendees as they entered the high school auditorium, as they all readied themselves to compete in this year’s Memorial Festival Miss and Master Beauty Pageant.

The instructor for the Majorette Group in Elkton Tina Hughes elected to take on the director role with the memorial festival pageant 15 years ago to try and revive it.

“The previous persons in charge were just letting it go, and no one else was interested in directing the pageant,” stated Hughes.

Now 15 years later, she is thankful to be the person to carry on a town tradition and has certainly been very successful in bringing life back to the pageant and making it a community favorite.

The pageant was held at the Page County High School this year. The larger venue space was able to hold a larger crowd and host more contestants. This year contestants not only came from Page County, but also Shenandoah, Rockingham, Augusta, Albemarle, Greene, Madison, Rappahannock and Warren counties.

“We had 50 contestants last year and had a total of 30 this year. We know having the pageant on a Saturday, we are competing with baseball, but maybe if the games get rained out, we will get more,” stated Hughes.

The pageant contestants were categorized in age ranges: boys 0-23 months, boys 2-4 years; girls 0-23 months, girls 2-3 years, girls 4-6 years, girls 7-9 years, girls 10-12 years, girls 13-15 years, girls 16-21; and Elegant Miss ages 22 and up. Each category had five spots for contestants to place and win.

It isn’t even Memorial Day and the festival hasn’t begun yet, so why is the pageant held a week before? Hughes had an answer.

“We don’t want to rush the kids that compete,” stated Hughes.

Hosting the pageant ahead of time allows the kids to take their time and enjoy the

event without having to rush off to be somewhere else during the Memorial Day Festival. The most important reason for holding the pageant is so the winners can ride on a float and be in the Memorial Day Festival Parade, Hughes said. Having the pageant event ahead of time allows the kids to better prepare for participating in the parade.

Virginia to offer ag nutrient management training in June

From PNC Staff Reports

WEYERS CAVE — The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation will offer a two-part agriculture nutrient management training school in June, according to a press release.

The school is for anyone interested in learning about the development of agricultural nutrient management plans or how to become a certified plan writer, the release stated.

Friday, May 26.

Friday evening will kick off with a steamed shrimp fundraiser, a cruise-in with a DJ and food, and will finish with a flag retirement ceremony.

Nutrient management plans determine rates for applying manure, fertilizers, biosolids and other soil amendments so that crop yields are maximized, and nutrient seepage into and ground and surface waters is minimized, the release stated.

This is the complete list of winners in in Memorial Day Pageant, however some may not be photographed. Baby Doll Winner: Baylee Laschelder, Master: Lucas Chavez, Tiny Miss: Brynlee Cardin, Little Miss: Dylani Kerns, Petite Miss: Brooklyn Watkins, Pre-Teen Miss: Ava Rucker, Junior Miss: Emmy Courtney, Miss: Emily Hammer, Elegant Miss: Danielle Myers, High Point

Photogenic: Aubrea Young, High Point

Memorial Day: Emily Hammer, High Point

Beauty: Ava Walker, 0-6 Supreme: Silas Gray, 7 & up Supreme: Brecken Gochenour

Many of the main events for the Memorial Day Festival will take place on Saturday, May 27, but the festivities will begin on

Saturday morning will start with a dog show held on the carnival grounds, and a yard sale/craft show/vendor show with food trucks on site. The Memorial Walk is scheduled after that followed by the town’s annual memorial ceremony. A car/truck/tractor show and a motorcycle show will be held. A petting zoo and a book sale will be set up too. The children’s parade will take place in the afternoon, while the main parade will take place a little later in the day. More information on where each event will be held and times can be found in the “Community Events Calendar” in the Page News and Courier.

The Memorial Day Festival will surely be packed with fun for the whole family and attendees are bound to see the Memorial Day Pageant winners throughout with their lovely smiles.

The first session, June 6-7, is a lecture series by Virginia Tech professors on soil science, soil fertility and crop production. The second session, June 12-14, will cover nutrient management plan writing using a case-study farm. Both sessions will be held in the BioScience Building of Blue Ridge Community College in Weyers Cave. Each day runs from 9 a.m. until 4:30p.m. Registration is $150 for each session, with a sign-up deadline of June 2, the release confirmed.

Nutrient management continues to be an important factor in a farmer’s decision-making process when considering application of materials to supply nutrients to crops, the release stated.

Application rates are determined by a process using actual yield records or soil productivity when yield records aren’t available.

More information about nutrient management training and certification is available at www.dcr.virginia.gov/soil-and-water/ nmtrain.

Boone

big,

He’s pretty relaxed and laidback, but loves to be in your company! He loves romping around the yard with his toys and being your BFF!

Contributed Photo by Jennifer Lam

Above is a portion of the winners for the pageant.

2023 Conservation Police officer announced

From PNC Staff Reports

RICHMOND — The Department of Wildlife Resources announced that Conservation olice fficer First Class Amanda Nevel has been named the 2023 Conservation Police Officer of the Year, a press release from the department stated.

Natural resources law enforcement is a specialized field that involves a unique form of community policing that requires an unwavering commitment to protecting our state’s citizens and its natural resources. It is clear to those who now fficer evel that she is such a committed officer, and she continually demonstrates a work ethic of quality professional customer service. She thoroughly immerses herself into fulfilling D s mission of conserving, connecting and protecting our citizens and wildlife resources in the ommonwealth. fficer Nevel is one of a dozen female officers proudly serving as a Virginia Conservation Police fficer. For the past seven years, she has protected the citizens and wildlife resources in the Northern Neck area of the state while patrolling the woods and waterways, the press release stated.

Spring brings increased bear activity, Department of Wildlife Resources says

traordinary group of nominees across the state that we are privileged to have working for all of us here in the Commonwealth. Each one of them is to be congratulated on being chosen to represent their assigned regions in this fficer of the Year selection process,” said DWR Chief of Law Enforcement John J. Cobb.

Throughout her career, Nevel has demonstrated a professional and positive attitude toward all her duties and responsibilities. These duties include the enforcement of our state’s hunting, trapping, fishing, and boating laws. he has become the district leader in her work area and serves as a mentor and training officer to new recruits who oin our team. Her steadfast work ethic and amicable demeanor serves as a positive example for all her fellow officers. he is a proven leader who has completed the inaugural Law Enforcement Leadership Development Program and sets the mark for how a committed and professional officer should conduct themselves while performing their duties, the press release stated.

Her unwavering commitment to ensuring safe boating, responsible hunting and fishing, and her propensity to the education of our constituents in ethics, safety and legal responsibilities is to be commended, the press release stated.

“DWR is proud to have Officer evel on our team and serving the citizens of this Commonwealth,” the press release stated. “We offer her our wholehearted congratulations on a ob well done

From PNC Staff Reports

RICHMOND — As spring approaches, both people and wild animals become more active. The spring months are a busy time for wildlife, especially black bears as they emerge from their winter dens hungry and in search of an easy meal, according to a press release. During this time of increased activity, it is important for homeowners to secure all potential food sources to reduce bear encounters on their property, the press release stated. Natural foods can be scarce during the early spring, so bears often look for easy food sources. These sources may be your garbage, com-

post pile, barbeque grills, birdseed, and pet food stored outside. “The goal is to make human sources of food harder for a bear to get than what nature provides – especially food that is high in fat and calories,” said elson afon, Forest ildlife Program Manager for the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. Bears are naturally cautious of humans, but they can overcome their wariness if people reward them with food; either intentionally by placing food out or unintentionally by not securing garbage, pet food, or other food sources, the press release stated. Take the following steps to avoid attracting black bears near

your residence:

• Secure Garbage: Keep in a locked shed or inside until collected or use a bear resistant container.

Ta e down birdfeeders. For tips on attracting birds, not bears: bearwise.org/store/BearWiseBulletin-1-Attract-Birds-NotBears-p318789683

• Secure pet and/or livestock feed in bear resistant containers or inside locked sheds.

• Clean up porches/decks: Clean grills, remove any potential food sources, and remember a screened in porch is not a “secure” storage area from a bear’s point of view.

• Never leave food, trash, or pet/ livestock feed inside your vehicle.

Shenandoah National Park ceremony celebrates 1,000-acres donation to park

From PNC Staff Reports

In a mountainside dedication ceremony on May 18, Shenandoah National ar officially commemorated the 2022 donation of nearly 1,000 acres of land from the Shenandoah National Park Trust. The historic donation is the result of a collaboration with partners from local, state, and national levels, a press release from the park stated.

The ceremony included remarks from National Park Service Associate Director for Partnerships and Civic Engagement Lauren Imgrund, Department of the nterior ffice of estoration and Damage Assessment Director Emily Joseph, and representatives of the trust and previous landowners, the press release stated.

Nearly 1,000 acres of woodlands including the headwaters of Naked Creek in the Tanners Ridge area of Page County are now protected as

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part of Shenandoah National Park through a donation made possible by a proposal by the Shenandoah National Park Trust to the Virginia and onservation Foundation.

Achieved by the united effort of landowners, nonprofits, businesses, and government agencies, these lands and headwaters of Naked Creek are now protected and preserved as public lands in perpetuity, the press release stated.

“The Shenandoah National Park Trust is proud of the strong collaborations that have led to this momentous addition to the park,” said Jessica Cocciolone, executive director of the trust. “These partnerships have ensured that this ma estic property will be preserved for generations to come.”

The Shenandoah National Park Trust wor ed with the . . Fish and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Department of the Interior Natural Resource

Damage Assessment and Restoration Program, the Commonwealth of Virginia, as well as local partners and landowners to purchase three contiguous properties with funds from the 2016 DuPont environmental damage settlement. Funds from the settlement were to be used for “land protection, property acquisition, and recreational and wildlife enhancements — riparian habitat along the outh iver or outh For henandoah River.”

“We are thrilled that the settlement funds enabled the addition of these lands to Shenandoah National ar , said indy chul , field office supervisor at the . Fish and ildlife Service’s Virginia Ecological Services Field ffice. onserving this area meets the goals of the settlement by protecting tributaries to the South For henandoah iver and providing and improving habitat for migratory birds, fish and other wildlife.

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Sentara donates $200K to Eastern Mennonite University

From PNC Staff Reports

HARRISONBURG —

In response to medical staff shortages plaguing our U.S. healthcare system, Sentara Health has launched pipeline development programs to support students pursuing healthcare career, a press release from the health system stated. Through a $3 million investment in the entara Scholars program, Sentara is working to create opportunities for young students to reach their desired healthcare careers, while also positively impacting their community s economics and health equity outcomes, the release stated.

As part of the Sentara Scholars program, Eastern Mennonite niversity received , in scholarship funds from Sentara Health, the release confirmed.

e are really thrilled that Sentara is continuing to build a healthy partnership with astern Mennonite niversity, particularly in the healthcare area,” said Dr. Susan Schultz Huxman, EMU president.

“Nursing has been one of our top majors at EMU for a long, long time and continues to be, she added. t s a very important partnership because we are preparing students for the workforce, for community involvement, and we really can t do that without community partners.”

Sentara RMH Medical Center employs hundreds of nurses, many of whom graduated from Eastern Mennonite niversity, the release stated.

“As we look toward the future with nursing, it s so important that we have good partnerships with our local universities, says hief ursing fficer for entara M ,

Sentara RMH Medical Center donates $30,000 to Mercy House

From PNC Staff Reports

than 100 families each year, to help them obtain housing or avoid eviction.

Gina Yost, MSN, RN, NEA BC.

ith M , we have a fabulous partnership that helps us build that nursing workforce for the future,” she adds.

o, we re really happy today to be able to provide this gift for EMU students to reduce the financial barriers that can sometimes be a challenge so that we can get folks in the workforce and into healthcare career fields.

Some students working toward advanced degrees do not have the same access to financial aid as undergraduate students. This is how EMU has chosen to apply the Sentara Scholars funds, the release stated.

e are very grateful for the partnership with Sentara

M . ur students have wonderful clinical experiences there and that partnership has been in place for a long time,” says EMU Nursing Department Chair, Melody Cash, hd, . e are e tremely grateful for the financial gift that has supported our students. ur seven accelerated students that received the gift are a part of a program where they already have a degree, then progress in months through the program. They don t get a lot of financial aid because they have a degree. So, it was wonderful for them to receive that gift.

“I think our partnership with EMU can be summarized as, the future of our community s health is tied to the future of our healthcare providers, says ory Davies, e ecutive director of the M Foundation.

“And to the extent that we can ensure that those healthcare providers get a good education, are grounded in the values that Sentara also holds, it means our community will also be better off for it too.”

HARRISONBURG — Sentara

RMH Medical Center presented Mercy House of Harrisonburg with a check for $30,000. The contribution from the Sentara Cares program was made on behalf of hospital team members who selected the non-profit to receive the funds through an employee engagement survey, a press release from the health system stated.

“Sentara Health is both honored and humbled to support Mercy House for the work they do in the community,” says Dr. Robert Garwood, chief medical officer for entara M . e went to our staff and asked them ‘what organization impacts the community in a positive way and the overwhelming choice was Mercy House as the recipient of this award. t s for the fine wor they do, the positive impact they make in the community, and how they help our homeless population.”

Established in 1988, Mercy House serves the homeless population of arrisonburg and Rockingham County by directly providing shelter to families a year. It also directs resources to more

t s overwhelming, and it is hugely difference making for our agency,” says hannon orter, e ecutive director of Mercy ouse. e are really grateful for Sentara and the employees for selecting us. I think that may be one of the most gratifying parts of this process. e re going to ma e good use of those funds and be good stewards of them. The fact that the employees of the hospital selected our organization and trust us with those resources is remarkable.”

Mercy House, through its shelter program and thrift stores, has made an impact on thousands of lives. orter says the agency can do so thanks to support from the community and contributions like this one through Sentara Cares, the press release stated.

Than you very much to entara

M . The hospital is a very big part of our community and Sentara has been very good to many organi ations in our community and we appreciate it,” says Porter.

e really are fortunate to get the resources and support that we have,

and also the organizations that we wor with. There s a huge safety net of organizations that work extremely well together to be able to take care of people who are vulnerable in unstable housing in our community,” Porter adds.

Sentara is passionate about addressing the social determinants of health in the communities it serves through the Sentara Cares program. t strives to transform lives in our neighborhoods by focusing on the root factors that affect our health beyond the clinical care entara provides, the press release stated.

More and more we have to support other organizations and partner with them beyond just the funding that we give to them to really improve health in our community, says ory Davies, e ecutive director of the M Foundation.

Securing health equity through affordable housing is one of five ey areas Sentara Cares focuses on. The other four include behavioral health, skilled careers, food security, and community engagement, the press release stated.