Volume 4, Issue 3 · Mid February, 2009 FREE Warren County Report 20,000 Readers • #1 Newspaper in Front Royal & Warren County! Dysfunctional government? Ship of Fools: Mayor blasts council

Hrbek: play by our rules or no liaison xx

7 5-6 25 DSS Chair lashed back at critics:Tar & feather party at WCGC 17-19 Councilmen, BAR at odds:Threatening phone call?” 33-35 Rare horse dies LIVE 80’S We’d rather party BAND Sat. Feb 7 than fight: Local Union Hall Bar & Grill fundraisers & fun! 2 (see page 36) 24-25 Page  • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009

The Przewalski’s horse is a horse species native to China and Mongolia that was declared extinct Science in the wild in 1970. Currently, there are approximately 1,500 of these animals maintained in zoo- logical institutions throughout the world and in several small reintroduced populations in Asia.

Rare horse dies at National Zoo’s Start the New Year out right…. Take care of the honey-do list!

Conservation and Research Center Have you got a list of home projects that need a professional? Let breathing. The horse was quickly Buracker Construction LLC help you with that list. Our experienced transported to the Center’s vet- crew can design and build from your ideas! Call us at 540-636- erinary hospital where veteri- 1879 or e-mail [email protected] to discuss your project. narians attempted to resuscitate him, but he died a short while We offer the following specialized services: later. A subsequent necropsy re- port showed that the horse had Finished Basements – Are you all sustained a fracture of the fourth cramped up in your current living space? cervical vertebrate in his neck. Turn that empty basement space into a The colt was born in July, sired family room, office or bedroom. by a 9-year-old stallion named Additions – Add that extra living space Frog, the most genetically valu- you’ve needed. Don’t move, improve. able Przewalski’s horse in the Garage’s and Barns – We do that too. North American breeding pro- Bring us your idea’s and we’ll design one that fits your needs. gram. Its mother came from Eu- Porches and Decks – Did you buy one of those houses that either had rope to breed with Frog in order no deck or a teeny tiny one? We can build you a real deck, one that you to boost the breeding program. can entertain your friends and family on and be proud. Gazebos – We can build a gazebo or pergola so you can relax and enjoy File photo of a Przewalski’s Horse. This wild horse The Przewalski’s horse is a horse the great outdoors! was declared extinct in the wild in the 1970s. Nation- species native to China and Mon- Update your look! Does your siding al Zoo scientists are part of an international effort golia that was declared extinct in need to be replaced? We can install to preserve the species. Photo by Jessie Cohen, NZP the wild in 1970. Currently, there Log siding, Cedar siding, Vinyl siding, photographer. are approximately 1,500 of these animals maintained in zoological Hardiplank Siding and Smart Side Siding. From a release: viously-without exhibiting any institutions throughout the world How about replacement windows. Get signs of stress or injury. Follow- and in several small reintroduced rid of those old drafty windows and get A six-month-old, male Przew- ing protocol, staff checked on the populations in Asia. some Energy Star rated replacements. alski’s horse died at the National animals a few minutes after they The filly that was also being If you are looking for a new house – we have two completed homes Zoo’s Conservation and Research entered the trailer. Staff found the transported sustained no injury ready to move into. Or, we can build for you on one of our lots in scenic Center in Front Royal, Va. Friday, colt unconscious, but it was still and is in good health. Bentonville, or on a lot of your own. Now is a great time to buy a new Jan. 30 due to a fractured neck. home! The cause of injury remains un- determined-staff closely observ- Mountain Brook Estates Have you been looking for that special piece of land to build your full time, weekend or ing the horse in the moments vacation home? If so, Mountain Brook Estates may be just what you’re looking for. preceding its death did not notice any unusual behavior that would Winter is a great time to look at land as the leaves are off the trees and you have caused the injury. can see what your view would be like once you clear for your house site. Staff directed the colt into a We would be happy to give you a personal tour of the property! chute system leading into a trail- er which would transport him and a six-month-old filly to a new pasture on Friday afternoon. The animal walked onto the trailer-as it had many times pre-

On 5+ acres in Bentonville, VA Karaoke $249,900 Mon - Wed 9 pm - 1:30 am Located in scenic Bentonville, VA this new mountain community of 10 lots ranging Buracker Construction LLC Thurs from 5 to 11 acres has something for everyone. Lot 2 has views and a pond and Custom Homes and Construction Services 10 pm - 1:30 am several lots have a stream going through them. High speed DSL Internet will be avail- able! For additional information, call Buracker Construction LLC, 540-636-1879 or 2594 Stonewall Jackson Hwy, Bentonville, VA 22610 visit our website @ mountainbrookestates.net. Prices start at 129,999 up to 229,999. 540-636-1879 • fax: 540-636-1591 Union Hall Directions from Front Royal: Take Rt. 340 South 9 miles to Bentonville. Turn left on Email: [email protected] Website: buracker-construction.com Bentonville-Browntown Road. Go 1 mile and turn left on Lockhart Lane. At the end of Lockhart Lane, turn right. Subdivision begins at sign. Lots are marked. For more Bar & Grill information or to schedule an ATV tour please call Christi Boies @ Weichert Realtors 231 Chester Street 540-671-6494 or Buracker Construction LLC 540-636-1879 or via e-mail at burack- Advertise in Front Royal & Warren Front Royal, VA [email protected] County’s local newspaper! (540) 636-6811 Looking for a builder? Call Buracker Construction LLC 540-636-1879 or visit buracker-construction.com Call Leanne Bryant: 540-305-6347 Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 

Do YoU hAve a SORE BACK? ...or BuRNing in your LEG or HIP? Child’s Photo HerE’s a Here FamOus DoctOr’s Valentine’s Day PaIN Relief SECret! to Finally Help YoUr AcHing & StifFnes!

“I Bet I can Help YouR Back!” a dOctor. I see a lot of peOple who coMe limping & bent ovEr to Hi, My naMe is Sadie and I‛m two years old. My Uncle‛s about your... his office. He’s kinda busy so I’m writing a letter to help him tell people about 2 secrets. Here’s the first one...it’s gross Secret #1—A Tricky PaiN in the BUTT! I see people who can’t get off the chair so they puSh on thier knees to gEt up. My uncle says it’s cause of pain in the hip from a seCret muscle in thier bUtt (gross) thAt no one kNows about. It piNches the SCiaTIC nerve and can hurt in the back & the hip and even go down the leg. EveRyboDy thiNks it’s a “ruptured disc” but my UnclE callS it a “NerVE ENtrAPMeNT” witch is a way to say the muscle traps the nerve—like a chuBBy kid tryiNg to wiggle unDer a feNce who gets stUck and sQueezed. NeRves hAte beiNg squeeZed. They get mad and Shoot pAin all oVer the plAce in your hIp & leg & back!!! My uncLe says it’s worse than a bAd tOothache! PAIN can

shoot all over! One of my Uncles secRets (hiS naMe is Dr. Jeremy Busch, D.C.) is somethiNg called REFERRED PAIN. It’s a BIG deal! Even doCtors in big m centeRs like orthopedik surgens and neurologests mIss this and so do exPensive MRIs & Kat scans. That’s why he hAs both therapi eDical professionals) and chiropractors (spine & joint doctors) working togEther at his HealthSource Chiropractic™ clinic... ‘cause th sts (muscle HANDS to find the proBlems...not just fancy machines. That’s why they’re suPer-good at tracking down sNeaky pain.ey also use thier

One moRe thing. Since he kNows it’s normal to be a little —A REal MIRaCLE!! cautious About something new, he’s even willing to nudge you Secret #2 to give it a chance...by giving you a FREE gift of a 1/4-Hour Ya know what else? MoSt TherApists & ciropRactors still fight like cats and dogs—but at HealthSource massage, a $15 Value (the massage is sooo relaxing!) Chiropractic™, it’s a miracle! They work togEtHer and shaRe thier top SEcRET HeAling stuff so pEople get help for pain FAST! Now there are 220 HealthSource clinics in Uncle MyMy Uncle‛s DaD’s FREEFREE CuPON! AmErica (does that make my famous?) who aRe usiNg this appRoAch. He Until CuPON! sAys that hAving tHerapiSts and chiropraCtors wOrking together ReallY FebrUary 18, 2009, my Uncleis offering a FREE helPs people a lot. Not only that, but he wAnts to mAke it super-easy to tRy “Hope for VALENTINE’S DAY” 17-POINT HiddEn- out this nEw way of HelpiNg your back rite NOW...‘cause Valentine’s Day is Pain EXAM an EXTRA SPECIAL time for HeAling. See, wHen people fEel happy, ThEy’re for youR bAck so You can see if this willing to try something NEW eveN if tHey’ve been feeliNg hopeless and have nEw treAtment approach is for you (they’ll tell you tried a lot of their stuff fOr their backs that didN’t help. iF you don’t qualify). Usually it cOsts $ , but For jUst a fEw days—uNtil 260 February 18, 2009 WhOOps! I forgot something REALLY IMpoRtAnt! My Uncle get this exam for FREE (NO money!).—yOu cAn says you get a triPle satisfaction PLEDGE. That mEans...1) we *get you in the Same Day you call or your first treatment is This offer does not apply to federal insurance beneficiaries and ACN participants. FREE! 2) If you do in fact qualify for treatment and are not cheerfully greeted by our warm and friendly team, then your GO HERE Yore exam Is A cOmplete PhysiCal exAm and treatment is FREE! 3) If you find a better pledge, you get an * X-Rays If you NEed thEM

entire week of treatment absolutely FREE! My Uncle is not 840 John Marshall Highway, Suite E promising a cure or claiming to be superior, he simply likes to (Business Park Next to Weichert Realty) believe that his clinic is built on helping people feel better. (But don’t wait—you’ve ONLY got 7 days!) Front Royal (540) 635-4440 Copyright © 2009 HealthSource • Dr. Jeremy Busch, D.C. www.healthsourcechiro.com VALENTINEHP020909 Page  • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009

Some of the items already known to be needed are: rebar, site prep Skatepark work, concrete, shotcrete, demolition, engineers signature, and a place for the [construction] crew to live while in Front Royal. Warren County Report

Readership: 20,000 and growing. Crooked Run $100,000 Skatepark proffer lauded Warren County’s leading newspaper. County moves to complete project this year – help, $ still needed 122 W 14th Street, Box 20 By Roger Bianchini not to lose a $75,000 state grant contact us. We need your sup- Once the contract is completed, Warren County Report to the project, Stanley explained. port.’ Pillar will develop an itemized Front Royal, VA 22630 Despite that and the unknown “With the latest commitment list which will be posted on the (540) 636-1014 “As part of the approval of the economic and town utility vari- the total funds raised to-date skate park website and used to (540) 636-1042 fax rezoning for the Crooked Run the ables that will impact the start for the project are $459,171.74. seek in-kind donations of materi- developer, Crooked Run West, of the Crooked Run expansion, The current cost estimate for the als or services. Some of the items proffered $100,000 towards the local officials were optimistic project is $544,476.10. The to- already known to be needed are: Published in a secret location in the greater metropolitan area of Limeton. Warren County Skatepark proj- the Crooked Run proffer is the tal remaining funds to be raised rebar, site prep work, concrete, ect. The proffer provides the boost the skatepark needed to either in cash contributions or shotcrete, demolition, engineers Publisher & Editor-in-Chief: match for the previous commit- see the project move to its sched- in-kind donations of materials signature, and a place for the Daniel P. McDermott ment of the Board of Supervisors uled completion despite the tight or services to meet the cost esti- crew to live while in Front Royal. [email protected] in October 2008 to match, dollar economy in what has been de- mate from the design-build firm “Susan Musante, Grants and for dollar, up to $100,000 towards scribed as a “deep recession.” is $85,334.36. Special Projects Coordinator, Managing Editor and Reporter: skate park construction to get the The Jan. 23 press release ex- “The Supervisors said that they continues to work on securing Roger Bianchini project moving forward. This pressed that optimism and elab- are committed to this project cash donations for the skate park. (540) 635-4835 match has now been realized,” orated on additional needs the because it is one that has been Anyone wishing to get involved [email protected] Warren County Grants Coordi- project needs from local support- in the planning stages for years. in fund-raising, to provide in- Reporters: nator Susan Musante announced ers: They recognized how long and kind donations, or to donate to Greg Johnson in a Jan. 23 press release. “According to Parks and Recre- hard the community has worked the project can contact Susan at [email protected] However, County Administra- ation Commission member and to raise funds but that a major (540) 636-4600 or grantscoord@ tor Doug Stanley later explained Supervisor Tony Carter, ‘This challenge over the years has been warrencountyva.net. Lorie Showalter the Crooked Run money will not provides what will hopefully be the increase in costs, making the “For questions or additional [email protected] be realized by the county until the boost needed to bring this fund-raising goal elusive. information, contact Douglas P. the shopping center developer project to completion. We hope “The Board of Supervisors has Stanley, County Administrator, at Sales Manager: applies for occupancy permits that other individuals and groups selected the design-build firm Pil- (540) 636-4600 or Daniel P. Lenz, Leanne Bryant (540) 305-6347 on the Phase 2 land, possibly in will be willing to make a contri- lar Design Studios/Artisan Skate- Director of Parks and Recreation [email protected] 2011 or 2012 according to discus- bution to the project knowing parks and staff is currently ham- , at (540) 635-7750.” sion at the Jan. 20 public hearing that it will be built this year.’ mering out a contract with Pillar. Billing Coordinator: on the rezoning. On Jan. 20, the “Dan Lenz, Parks and Recre- Ashley Lotts board of supervisors voted 3-2 to ation Director, added, ‘This is a like. As a different dog, Skyler will [email protected] rezone about 85 acres to facilitate project that we have been work- have a different personality as well, the eventual expansion of the ing on for the better part of the and that also determines how he re- Advertising: Target-anchored Crooked Run past 20 years. The kids are - ex acts to new noises and people. (540) 636-1014 Center west along the northside tremely excited to being this close It’s important not to compare your www.warrencountyreport.com/adinfo of Interstate-66. to seeing this project turn from a new dog to the old dog. But we of- ten do that with pets -- it’s part of the Contributors: So the county will have to front dream to a reality. If anyone or Paula Conrow, Features Writer grieving process when we lose a be- the money to realize completion any organization out there wants Cassidy Custis, Entertainment Writer of the project this year in order to be part of this project, please loved companion. Tony Elar, Cartoonist Extraordinaire So, be patient with Skyler. He Kevin S. Engle, Humor Columnist needs time to become accustomed to Leslie Fiddler, Writer New Dog Isn’t Like Old One his new environment, and he needs Bo Kane, Columnist to be slowly socialized rather than in- Viviane Knight, Health Writer  DEAR PAW’S CORNER: Our be- troduced to all your friends at once, Ryan Koch, Cartoonist Extraordinaire loved mutt “Pistol” was put to sleep which can be quite overwhelming for Jim Smithlin, Writer a year ago after battling cancer. Two a pet. He needs regular obedience Mary Ellen South, Poet Timothy R. Thompson, Writer months ago, my son and I adopted training and steady, predictable in- Matt Swain, Business Writer a new dog, “Skyler,” who is mostly teraction with the household so he Swiss mountain dog and we’re not will become comfortable with the Transcriptionist:  sure what else. Skyler is about 3 rhythms and rules of his new life. Roya Milotte  years old, and I’m not sure if he’s And, be patient with yourself. Pistol [email protected]   adapting well to his new home, He will always be a part of your life, and  barks furiously at the slightest noise you will miss him. Skyler isn’t a re- Circulation:  and barks constantly at any visitors. placement for Pistol; he’s a new ad- Leslie Bennett  Pistol was never like this, and he also dition. Give yourself time to get past  was an adult adoption. How can we Pistol’s loss and to accept Skyler for If you are interested in contributing  get Skyler to settle down? -- Janet in the dog that he is. articles to our paper, please e-mail: Kansas City, Mo. [email protected] Send your tips, questions and com-  DEAR JANET: Well, first, remind ments to Paw’s Corner, c/o King     yourself that Skyler and Pistol are Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box Warren County Report is looking for   two different dogs, and that -- as 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475, or additional advertising sales folks.   adult adoptees -- you don’t know e-mail them to pawscorner@hotmail. Please e-mail:  Federally Insured  [email protected]  by NCUA  what either of their upbringings were com. (c) 2009 King Features Synd. Black & White

Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 

“We’ll take an hour talking and we’ll look like a bunch of fools – and that’s what we looked like (on Jan. 26). And if you don’t believe it, watch the tape!” – Front Royal Mayor Town Eugene Tewalt to the Front Royal Town Council Welcome to the monkey house Mayor blasts council for non-professional meeting conduct By Roger Bianchini Warren County Report

Fed up with a Feb. 2 work session discussion that had belabored whether councilmen should di- rectly respond to public criticism leveled their way at council meet- ings, Front Royal Mayor Eugene Tewalt exploded (well, he didn’t jump up and down and scream like I would have – but he was miffed). “We’ll take an hour talking and we’ll look like a bunch of fools – and that’s what we looked like. And if you don’t believe it, watch the tape!” Tewalt said on the short end of his mayoral fuse. Tewalt’s “tape” reference was to the cable Mayor Eugene Tewalt, right, was less than enthralled with the Front Royal Town Council as his comments public access station broadcasts during the Feb. 2nd work session indicated. At left, Vice Mayor Bret Hrbek, background, listens to the mayor of town council meetings, in this during discussions that led to the mayor’s description of council appearing to be “fools” during Jan. 26th case the one of Jan. 26. meeting. At that meeting (see related story on town’s liaison, BPOL first renewed Front Royal-War- discussion on residency require- disputed the mayor’s assessment, council liaison discussion story and BAR discussions), council, ren County Liaison Committee ments of Board of Architectural Tewalt replied, “When you make elsewhere in this issue, council led by Vice Mayor Bret Hrbek, agenda in about two years. Also Review members. amendment on amendment on voted on seven motions on four engaged in an extended critique up for various levels of convo- “I’d like to see you look profes- amendment on a motion – that’ liaison procedural items on Jan. of, among other things, liaison luted scrutiny were a Resolution sional. And last week we did not unprofessional.” 26, and three suggested amend- rules approved for discussion on maintaining the BPOL Tax in look professional,” the mayor told As recounted in our Jan. 26 ments to the original motion lim- by both municipalities for the Virginia, and a more contentious council. When Vice Mayor Hrbek

Q: I have a J. Estey and Company A: I’m not sure what we’re talk- pump organ made in Brattle- ing about, since one of the last boro, Vt. The patent dates are all 78 rpm recordings issued was from the 1860s. Where can I get Chuck Berry’s “Too Pooped to more information about its val- Pop,” released by Chess in Feb- ue? -- F.M., Montevideo, Minn. ruary 1960. Although a few oth- Lapel Pin A: Although Minneapolis is ers were issued as novelties after across the state from where you that date, notably Moby Grape’s Q: I have an antique lapel pin live, you need to consult an es- 1968 album, that was just about made in about 1900 that pro- tablished piano/organ dealer in the end of the line for this type moted Carrie Nation and her that city. He or she will be fa- of recording. EMI deleted all 78 anti-saloon campaign. It is a miliar with values in your region rpm titles of its catalog in 1962. small copper hatchet with a de- and can help you determine the Do you have 78 rpm or 33 rpm sign featuring a small pearl and age and value of your instru- records? Until I know the an- white stone. Do you think it has ment. Don’t pay too much atten- swer, I can’t help you. any value? -- Dorothy, Sun City, tion to patent dates, since they Ariz. can’t be used to accurately date Write to Larry Cox in care of an item. For example, I have a King Features Weekly Service, “Local Knowledge..... Global Reach” A: I could not find your pin in kitchen gadget that was patent- P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL one of my favorite reference ed in 1895 but purchased new by 32853-6475, or send e-mail to books, Warman’s Political Col- my grandmother in 1928. [email protected]. lectibles: Identification and Price Due to the large volume of mail 540-675-1675 Guide, by Dr. Enoch L. Nappen Q: I have a large collection of 78 he receives, Mr. Cox is unable www.piedmontsir.com (Krause, $24.99), but I did track rpm records from the 1960s and to personally answer all reader down two seasoned collectors. ‘70s. I would like to know if they questions. Do not send any ma- I described your pin, and they have any value. -- Michael, Sun terials requiring return mail. both think it is worth about $75. City West, Ariz. (c) 2009 King Features Synd. 12693 Lee Highway, Washington, Va 22747 Black & White

Page  • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009

“This is ridiculous – it’s like the last month, what do you want to do? We’re going to waste an hour, hour and a half on this – will it happen at every council meeting? We should be talking about town ordinances, Town financial disbursements, town business.” – Mayor Tewalt on council’s ponderous liaison committee rules and agenda discussion iting BAR memberships to town variety of topics from the Route Jan. 26 meeting story had not yet Jan. 15 liaison agenda item – the town and county. Perhaps final- residents. 522 Corridor Agreement, to been published) leading to “star EDA and its response to the town ly tired by the debate, the vice While the collective Jan. 26 town staff and council ethics and chamber” secret meetings and initiative to seize operational and mayor suggested that the Lauder- council performance focused on motivations. municipal business conducted financial control of the legally in- Holloway-Conkey-Parker major- the above listed issues, that coun- Holloway, who has been di- behind closed doors accusations, dependent, quasi-governmental ity could simply scrap the whole cil was fully capable of overex- rectly in the crosshairs of some Hrbek said of liaison agendas, economic development engine. town resolution on the EDA. tending itself on other topics was of that recent criticism, quickly “So I suggest we do it in the most Of the EDA board’s polite re- At last on the same page, Mayor the straw that broke the mayor’s agreed with Conkey. Parker fol- open way” – unanimous approval fusal to turn over all but $200,000 Tewalt observed, “I heard candi- back at the 5 p.m., Feb. 2 work lowed suit but added a note of of each quarterly agenda by the of its $1.2 million or so of cash as- dates at the [election] forum say session. Tewalt brought a pro- caution. full town and county boards.” sets and all future cash from land leave the EDA alone. posal forward to move the Public “I like the idea of rebuttal but I’d “This is ridiculous – it’s like the sales, the vice mayor observed, As discussion turned to whether Concerns item from the end of warn against speaking too freely,” last month, what do you want to “We’re now playing chicken with the town should seek a third ap- the meeting agenda, to closer to Parker said of the potential for do?” the mayor asked. “We’re go- them … we don’t have to give pointee to the seven-person EDA the beginning. The mayor cited being drug into emotional ex- ing to waste an hour, hour and a them any money – it’s like the kid board, tied to an increase in the ongoing complaints that mem- changes with the public. half on this – will it happen at ev- at college that gets cut off,” Hrbek town’s funding support from 28 bers of the public with general “We should be careful or it will ery council meeting? We should reasoned of the town refusing to percent to 45 percent of the mu- issues to raise have to sit through be in the papers,” Conkey ob- be talking about town ordinanc- provide its operational funding nicipal share, Parker said straight sometimes long meetings to have served with a smile toward press es, financial disbursements, town share of the EDA’s annual budget faced, “Let’s kill the whole resolu- their chance to address their local row. business.” of about $850,000. tion except for the confidentiality legislators. As the discussion evolved into “I wish there were some light Noting that town funding por- agreement (Town, county reps However, after Councilmen a debate at what point near the at the end of the tunnel. We’re tion amounted to about $35,000 attending closed EDA meetings Tom Conkey, Shae Parker and start of the agenda the public spending more time on this than ($31,900 in the last budget year), sign a binding confidentiality Chris Holloway expressed sup- should be allowed to talk, and anything else,” Town Attorney Conkey observed, “You’re threat- agreement on unresolved busi- port of councilmen’s right to whether council responses should Tom Robinett said in concur- ening them with an empty gun ness negotiations), say we want respond to any public meeting be a part of their already sched- rence with the mayor’s observa- – they called your bluff.” three appointments and still want criticism leveled at them from uled remarks, Tewalt’s patience tion. Hrbek then noted that the four to pay 28 percent.” citizens, Tewalt had had enough. ended, leading to his trashing of After about an hour and fifteen new councilmen seated since Perhaps baffled by the tone of “I’m going to take this off the council’s ability to function co- minutes on that liaison topic, the May 2008 election had all Parker’s mixed bag proposal, at agenda. It is my request and if herently. Following his withdraw- Hrbek led the council into a revis- campaigned against changes to that point council tabled further we’re going to have to go through al of his public speaking agenda iting of the one non-procedural the EDA’s arrangement with the discussion of EDA issues. this rigmarole I’d rather leave placement initiative, the mayor it as it is – and that’s that,” the and staff listened to council- re mayor said, ending discussion of visit myriad issues surrounding 2 eggs or equivalent in egg sub- plate on a wire rack and allow to instituting a change resulting in the liaison committee. stitute cool at least 1 hour. the potential of ongoing council debate with the public. The never-ending story 1/2 cup Splenda Granular Evenly spread sour cream over In the wake of sitting through 3/4 cup Land O’Lakes no-fat top of cooled pie. Lightly sprin- recent public tirades leveled their Hrbek reiterated his call for collective or individual ways, quarterly rather than monthly sour cream kle almonds and nutmeg over Conkey initiated the response meetings to give staff and coun- 2 tablespoons slivered almonds top. Refrigerate for at least 30 discussion. cil time to prepare and approve Dash nutmeg minutes. Cut into 8 servings. “I’m a little tired of taking it on agendas. Noting he was being the chin,” Conkey said of recent “beaten up in the press” for his li- criticisms leveled at council on a aison stance (don’t look at me, my Preheat oven to 450 F. Place • Each serving equals: 241 calo- pie crust in deep-dish 10-inch ries, 9g fat, 11g protein, 29g carbs, pie plate and flute edges. Stir 1/2 434mg sodium, 200mg calcium, MISSING CAT Jubilee Cherry Cheese Pie teaspoon almond extract into 1g fiber; Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Louis cherry pie filling. Evenly spoon 1/2 fat, 1 Starch/Carb, 1 Meat, It wouldn’t be February if you mixture into prepared pie crust. 1/2 Fruit; Carb Choices: 2. “Lou Lou” didn’t have one cherry recipe to Bake for 15 minutes. Remove pie share with your special some- from oven and lower heat to 350 Visit Healthy Exchanges at www. one. This recipe has all the flavor F. healthyexchanges.com, or call of Cherries Jubilee! In a large bowl, stir cream toll-free at 1-800-766-8961 to cheese with a sturdy spoon sign-up for our FREE monthly 1 Pillsbury refrigerated unbaked until soft. Stir in eggs and re- newsletter. (All you pay is the 9-inch pie crust th maining 1/2 teaspoon almond shipping and handling.) This Missing Since Wed. Jan. 14 1 teaspoon almond extract extract. Add Splenda. Mix well is the only national food news- Older Neutered Male, All Black with Yellow Eyes 1 (20-ounce) can Lucky Leaf No to combine. Carefully spoon letter for diabetics, heart/cho- MEOWS for Food Sugar Added Cherry Pie Filling cream cheese mixture evenly lesterol concerns and healthy 2 (8-ounce) packages Philadel- over cherry pie filling. Continue weight loss. 540-660-2175 phia fat-free cream cheese REWARD — SOUTH ROYAL AREA baking for 30 minutes. Place pie (c) 2009 King Features Synd. Black & White

Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 

“… unless you play by the rules we’re not going to be there.” – Front Royal Vice Mayor Bret Hrbek’s take on county liaison procedural change proposals Town & county

The honeymoon ends – liaison’s viability questioned Hrbek: rules aren’t made to be changed – at least not by the county By Roger Bianchini from monthly to quarterly might “I realize this isn’t the biggest rules; capitulation somewhat moot fol- Warren County Report not make his initial issue moot. thing, but liaison meetings aren’t 3. and that liaison meetings be lowing the second liaison meet- “It becomes moot when we the biggest thing either,” Hrbek quarterly rather than monthly ing still scheduled for the third I hate to say I nailed it – but the agree on the rules. The problem stated. Later we asked the vice (which is a change in those initial Thursday of February (the 18th); good vibrations characterized in is violating the rules,” Hrbek re- mayor about his perception of li- rules); 2. adhere to a 90-minute meeting our last edition to describe the plied. aison meetings. 4. Tom Sayre’s motions that ad- timeframe, though it was point- first town-county liaison com- “I don’t think it’s worth giv- “It’s kind of a show. The mayor ministrative reports to the other ed out 90 minutes might not be mittee meeting in two years van- ing up liaison over something as and the chairman [of the county boards be quarterly; enough time for quarterly meet- ished in the haze of the first Front petty as that,” Councilman Tom board] talk; the supervisors and 5. and that the liaison location be ings since the county apparently Royal Town Council discussion Conkey replied to Hrbek’s pro- councilmen talk – we talk. We’re rotated every six months, rather does not agree with the Front of that meeting. In fact, I was a posal of a town boycott of liaison citizens, we’re public officials, we than monthly as council had ini- Royal vice mayor’s contention little slow in calculating how long on procedural issues the town talk. Liaison is a formal [meet- tially suggested; there is nothing for the town and things would take to break down, appeared to agree to consider ing] – everything [that would be 6. Conkey’s motions that a 90- county to talk about on any sort predicting “the good vibes” would changes to by approving them for discussed there] should be de- minute time limit be instituted of regular basis; hold at least until the “H’s” hit the liaison discussion. Conkey was cided already. I think there are (though he had initially suggest- 3. have quarterly inter-municipal town’s monthly rotating mem- the town’s first rotating liaison bigger issues than having liaison ed the time limit be a guideline, administrative reports with no bership, say along about March. rep on Jan. 15. Mayor Tewalt and between the county and town. I rather than a hard cutoff time); questions by the boards to the So while it may have been “no Town Manager Michael Graham don’t think we need to have a for- 7. and, at the request of Town other municipality’s administra- big deal” and “no problem with were the other town reps. County mal liaison meeting every quar- Manager Graham, that the recip- tor; that” from the town side on pro- Board Chairman Archie Fox, Su- ter. I think we could have a formal rocal rezoning agreement again 4. resubmit all four liaison pro- cedural matters at liaison on pervisor Tony Carter and County meeting as we need it. When the be tabled. cedural items from the January Jan. 15, at the Front Royal Town Administrator Doug Stanley rep- 522 Corridor comes up and we meeting to the February agenda Council meeting of Jan. 26 it was resented the county. need to talk about it, we convene As for the one non-procedural for further discussion. “let’s take our ball and go home” “Why kill this thing over some- a liaison meeting.” agenda item from the Jan. 15 li- if they won’t play by our rules thing as silly as that?” Conkey Asked if he thought the poten- aison meeting, council scheduled Or perhaps to summarize, the – or more precisely “unless you asked Hrbek. tial negatives overruled the posi- discussion of the EDA response county seemed willing to adhere play by the rules we’re not going Hrbek later replied that the idea tives in scheduled liaison meet- to its resolution on changes to to the UBER RULE – play by to be there” in the words of Front of liaison meetings was to estab- ings, Hrbek said, “Yes, I think the EDA processes, board makeup, Bret’s rules or don’t play at all. Or Royal Vice Mayor Bret Hrbek. lish trust between the two mu- potential danger is requiring us and asset control to a Feb. 2 work as that old 1953 Little League All- “We need to hold them to the nicipal governments. “But they’re to have a meeting to talk about session. Star third baseman and County same rules … we all need to go saying ‘screw you, we’re doing it stuff and having to come up with Board Chairman Archie Fox under the same rules,” Hrbek this way,’ ” Hrbek said colorfully things to talk about because there County folds concluded of liaison prospects, told council on the matter of sug- of his perception of the initial be- isn’t anything to talk about. We’ve “I think the ball’s back in [the gested changes to liaison proce- trayal of that trust by the county been operating pretty well for 18 At a Feb. 3 work session the town’s] court.” dures despite the fact that four of government. “I don’t think there’s months without it. Relationships Warren County Board of Su- the five agenda topics of discus- anything sinister about it; I won’t between the two governing bod- pervisors appeared to capitulate [email protected] sion at the first liaison meeting suggest that. I’m trying not to ies are better now than they were on all major discussion items or were the advisability of some of cause a problem but here Tony before we were having liaison “balls” of contention regarding li- Landry Decorators the procedures forwarded to the [Carter] said ‘We’re going to do meetings.” aison. The board majority seemed county by the town. Among those what we want to do’ – well, that’s In the end council voted to re- content to: 30 years experience were monthly rotating sites and not what you do.” visit all four of the liaison proce- Painting (interior/exterior) committee membership terms, When we pointed out Mayor dural issues discussed at the first 1. A/B continue by the rotating Plumbing • Carpentry approval of agenda items, and Tewalt said at liaison he didn’t liaison meeting, at the second li- monthly alphabetically liaison General Maintenance monthly reports by one munici- believe council would have an is- aison meeting tentatively sched- appointments – though a sub- pal administrator to the other’s sue with the supervisors choos- uled for the third Thursday in sequent agreement to move the * Licensed & Insured * elected board. ing their second representative as February. meetings to quarterly rather than 540-636-3177 Hrbek suggested town staff they saw fit, Hrbek pointed out, According to Council Clerk monthly seems to render that first send the county government a “But we need to vote on that.” Jennifer Berry, who served as liai- letter advising that, “unless you son’s first recording secretary and Now Available at Prospect Hill Cemetery: Monuments, Cremation Urns, Cremation Niches, In Ground Vases, Bronze Flag Holders and follow this [original rules] we’re Turn off, tune out - drop out? whose head may have been spin- not going to have liaison until ning the following day as much as Monument Cleaning you do.” During his lengthy comments yours truly’s was, council voted Primarily at issue for Hrbek was on liaison procedures, Hrbek on seven motions related to liai- the possibility the county might seemed to realize he was taking son on Jan. 26. Those included: select its second board of super- up more meeting time than he visors’ liaison representative on had intended on the issue. He 1. Shae Parker’s motion to resub- other than a monthly rotating even suggested viewers watching mit all four liaison procedural basis. However with the county the meeting on the local public matters to the new liaison agen- considering three or six-month access station turn their TV’s off da; rotations for that member, we for a few minutes if they had be- 2. Hrbek’s motions to send the Prospect Hill Cemetery Association, Inc. asked Hrbek if his own suggestion come bored with the discussion county a letter demanding adher- 200 W. Prospect Street • Front Royal, VA 22630 • 540-635-5468 that liaison meetings be changed and tune back in later. ence to the initial town submitted All ‘D’series memorial art property of Design Mart. Copyright © 1978-2005 Design Mart. Used with permission. All other rights reserved. License #L 0010002 Black & White

Page  • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009

Writing about NASCAR is a cool job, as my friends are fond of telling me. I’m looking Sports forward to it right now. I feel revitalized. There have been years when I dreaded the season’s onset.

I’m capable of it. I’ll never be ca- it is your primary job, there isn’t bit and diversifying myself, I’ve road. You can e-mail Monte at pable of it unless I try. If I’m not much time for anything else. found a happy medium. Maybe [email protected]. good enough now, maybe I can I never had a hobby until fairly obsessing less about NASCAR get good enough with practice. recently because my job was so will make me better at writing The downside is that fiction is all-inclusive. Now music is a gen- about it. often pushed back in the name uine hobby, and it’s made my life Or maybe it won’t. I’m happier, of projects that actually produce more enjoyable. though. money. Writing about NASCAR is a The best way to become a better cool job, as my friends are fond Monte Dutton has covered motor- writer is ... to write. Fortunately, I of telling me. I’m looking forward sports for The Gaston (N.C.) Ga- get a lot of practice. to it right now. I feel revitalized. zette since 1993. He was named Covering NASCAR Is a Cool If I lack direction, though, I’ll There have been years when I writer of the year by the National Job get it soon. NASCAR lasts for dreaded the season’s onset. Motorsports Press Association 10 months. When writing about Maybe, by stepping away a in 2008. His blog NASCAR This The great hibernation is coming Week (http://nascar.rbma.com) (c) 2009 King Features Synd., to an end. features all of his reporting on Inc. Oh, I’ve kept myself occupied WARREN COUNTY racing, roots music and life on the during the NASCAR offseason. GIRLS SOFTBALL ASSOCIATION I’ve written numerous columns about other sports. I’ve gone to a n a girls tr ng o avel few ballgames as a fan. I’ve read ayi so Registration for 2009 Spring Season pl ftb quite a bit. n GIRLS 10 U a I’ve written a few songs and i ll Babe Ruth Softball League d te recorded all the ones I’ve writ- te a s m ten -- 19 now, I think, along with e Open to girls ages 5 - 18 r Travel Softball ? several others in various stages e ? t of completion -- in a studio, and n now friends of mine are adding Date: Saturdays, February 7, 14, 21 & 28 I other tracks (lead guitar, bass, Time: 4-7 pm If so, the Front Royal Travel 10U Girls Softball Team percussion) in order to make it Location: Skyline High School would like to invite you to try-outs on February 8th, 2009. look like I know what I’m doing. Registration Fee: $50 for first girl We are looking for girls who are 9 or 10 years old as of I’ve tried to become a better gui- $35 for each additional girl in the same family December 31, 2008. If you are interested and would like tarist and get a little better on a more information please contact: few other instruments (electric Margie Sims 636-9233 guitar, harmonica, mandolin) ly- Copy of birth certificate is required. ing around the house. Julie Vaught 636-1004 I’ve organized my home music For additional information call Susan Ritter at 635-2417 CJ Campbell 635-4055 collection. My house isn’t exactly conceived by an interior decora- tor. All those CDs are in a gigan- FRONT ROYAL SOCCER ASSOCIATION WARREN COUNTY BABE RUTH LEAGUE (For players 13-18 living in Front Royal or Warren County) tic chest of drawers -- a friend P. O. Box 1181 changed jobs and didn’t want to Front Royal 22630 take it with him -- between the SPRING 2009 kitchen and the kitchen table, on REGISTRATION INFORMATION the other side of the bar, which is not a bar where beverages are Children born on or before September 30, 2003 are eligible to play. prepared, but a bar where food We cannot take children born after this date. All new players must is prepared, where cheese is bring or mail a copy of their birth certificate before they can be placed sliced and instant pudding and on a team. Registration DEADLINE is FEBRUARY 22nd. After this Jell-O (sugar-free, of course!) are date a $25 late fee will apply. Opening Day is March 28th. whisked. Music and Jell-O. In close prox- Please visit www.frontroyalsoccer.com to register or to download a Registration Dates for 2009 Season imity. Why? There was room for Players born before May 1, 1996 and on or after January 1, 1990 are eligible registration form. a dresser there ... and room in the dresser for CDs. Saturday, January 31, 2009 9-12 am I’ve cooked a lot. I’ve conducted Registration fee is $50. Saturday, February 7, 2009 9-12 am experiments in the rapidly grow- Saturday, February 14, 2009 9-12 am ing field of chicken-wing sauces. Stop by to register your child I’ve further perfected the chili on the following dates: Registration Fee: $85.00 for first player recipe. I’ve explored new innova- * Wednesday February 4th and $140.00 for two or more players in one family tions in regard to the microwave, 11th – 5:00-7:00 pm the electric grill and the crock- * Saturday, February 7th, 14th, Sign-Up Location: Front Royal Volunteer Fire Department Hall pot. and 21st – 12:00-2:00 pm Commerce Street, Front Royal I’ve written a few chapters of All registrations will take place fiction, not because of some book Bring original or certified copy of birth certificate(s). It (they) will be returned deal but because I really want to. at the FRSA office, located at before you leave registration area. I’d like to get a novel published, 216B East Main Street, across but have no clear confidence that the street from the Daily Grind. Call Maya Harpster, 540-622-0203, if you’d like additional information Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 

Send your brief news items and press releases to [email protected] The news

operations. Seventy-five years after the ty-sixth district understand what by $400 million dollars thereby “Although we have considered repeal of Prohibition, nothing some in Richmond just don’t get,” stabilizing our banking system many vitally important bills this has changed in Virginia – even commented Obenshain. “They and providing liquidity which can session, few pieces of legislation though thirty-two states allow aren’t ready to give up on this bill, then be borrowed to create Vir- struck a chord with voters as the private sale of distilled spirits. and neither am I.” ginia private sector jobs. Virginia state liquor monopoly much as this one did,” said Sen. In fact, these “private sale” states Senator Obenshain represents to continue Obenshain. “The voters do not actually experience slightly lower the twenty-sixth district in the (4)Reducing Virginia’s corporate understand why the state needs levels of underage drinking, driv- Virginia Senate. The district in- manufacturing gross sales tax On January 30, the Virginia to be in the retail business, and ing under the influence, and alco- cludes the city of Harrisonburg over the next four years which Senate Committee on Rehabili- frankly, neither do I.” holism. and the counties of Warren, should position Virginia to retain tation and Social Services killed Virginia’s ABC Stores are a relic Sen. Obenshain’s bill would Shenandoah, Page. and create an additional 9,000 legislation introduced by Sena- of an earlier era, a holdover from have created “package store li- high-paying manufacturing jobs tor Mark Obenshain (R-Harri- the early days after Prohibition censes,” which would authorize in the Commonwealth because sonburg) to privatize Virginia’s when many, including oil baron the retail sale of alcohol bever- of the incentive. ABC Store operations. Although John D. Rockefeller, were con- ages, to be auctioned off one at a SB 1542 will not be considered cerned that the private sale of time, with no less than one license (5)Providing grant incentives to further this year, Sen. Obenshain alcohol would corrupt the moral in every city and county, but not existing and new businesses lo- says he will continue to work to- character of the citizenry and more than one per 10,000 resi- cated in Virginia for work force wards the goal of divesting these lead to moral decay. dents, adjusted every five years. training programs to be devel- The auction price would form oped at our local Virginia com- the basis for that licensee’s an- munity colleges. Randolph-Macon Academy nual fees, adjusted for inflation, Announces the 2009 Middle School and the state would continue to With respect to matters of tax the sale of spirits. No licensee unique importance to the citizens Scholarship Writing Contest could locate within a one mile ra- of Fauquier, Warren, and Fred- dius of an existing license holder, Report from Richmond erick Counties, I voted against First Place: $2,000 scholarship making the first license issued in Governor Kaine’s attempt to cut applicable towards 2009-10 tuition at R-MA. any locality the most valuable. Delegate Clay Athey, R-18th Leg- in half the Virginia Land Conser- Open to students currently in grades 5, 6 & 7. “Handled correctly, privatizing islative District vation Tax Credit Program. This the ABC Stores will save money program has been very successful Call 540-636-5480 for more information & application. and increase consumer choice,” Greetings from your Delegate in my District and I fear that Kai- Deadline March 15, 2009. Current R-MA students are not eligible. To receive award, said Obenshain, noting that to the Virginia General Assem- ne’s proposed cut may become winners must apply, meet admissions criteria, and enroll at R-MA for the 2009-10 school year. For more information, visit www.rma.edu. privatization tends to offer con- bly. As we enter the third week of permanent thereby denying our sumers such benefits as greater the 2009 Session, bills attempting local economy the capital re- Randolph-Macon Academy...more than a prep school convenience, better hours, wider to promote job creation and eco- tained by my constituents utiliz- selections, lower prices, and the nomic recovery began making ing the program and discourag- Visit innovation inherent in competi- their way through the House of ing land conservation efforts on rma.edu to tion-driven systems. Delegates. our largest farms. find out about Some of the ideas being pro- our Summer Although the bill did not pass In addition, in my judgement, School this year, Sen. Obenshain intends posed in various bills patroned the Governor’s proposed cuts to Courses and to work with interested parties to by members of the House Repub- this program would also further Summer revise and reintroduce the legis- lican Policy Committee which I exacerbate large lot residential Camps! lation next year. Support for the chair include: development on agriculturally measure transcends the usual zoned land in my District, which political divides: “Everywhere I (1)Stimulating Virginia business in my opinion is the greatest long go, people ask me about this bill,” job creation by extending for ten term danger to maintaining the said Obenshain. “Democrats and years the very successful major scenic beauty and quality of life Republicans, young and old, they business facility job tax credit families have enjoyed in my neck all want the government out of which reduces taxes on new and the business of selling alcohol.” existing companies based on the A Facebook group Sen. Oben- level of new job creation generat- shain created for supporters of ed by the specific business facility Advertise in Laurie Hilvers, Owner privatization efforts currently in Virginia. There is no more separation anxiety for your dog. It is truly a one on one service. boasts over four hundred mem- Front Royal I come to your home in my fully equipped salon on wheels. You and your dog get bers, and in a recent survey avail- (2)Providing innovative state fi- the personal attention you both deserve. able on www.markobenshain. nancing at low interest rates for and Warren com and mailed to thousands of any existing or new Virginia com- There are no more multiple trips to a shop cutting into your very busy time. This voters across the district, seventy pany which agrees to invest over County’s local means less gas and no clean up of your car. My service is more accommodating percent of respondents favored $250 million dollars in a new or to your schedule. privatization, with nearly 85% expanded facility only if such newspaper! Your dog’s comfort is my top priority: no more exposure to strange dogs and supportive if they were assured company creates at least 400 new loud barking all day. Pawsitive Pup is a clean, sanitary environment. I provide a that the Commonwealth could jobs. hydro massage bath with hot and cold water for comfortable bathing, heat and reap a considerable profit by the air conditioning for overall comfort and even a rear stereo with calming music for conversion. The numbers ran still (3)Requiring that state tax rev- Call Leanne Bryant a total soothing experience. higher if voters were assured that enue collected by the Common- the Commonwealth could im- wealth be retained in Virginia My priority is quality not quantity - a compassionate and personalized service. pose restrictions on the location financial institutions. This policy 540-305-6347 [email protected] 540.683.6370 • www.pawspup.com and advertising of distilled spirit change is expected to increase retailers. “The people of the twen- bank deposits in Virginia banks Page 10 • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009

The news Send your brief news items and press releases to [email protected]

of the woods for generations. have the best opportunity to pro- for each other with scenic vistas on planning your dream wed- 868-7093 in Middletown. I have also been advocating in tect our remaining undeveloped of the majestic Blue Ridge Moun- ding event. For more informa- my role as House Policy Chair- farmland while accommodating tains as your backdrop. tion about participating as an ex- man that Governor Kaine’s pro- the migratory increases in popu- There will be refreshments and hibitor, call Pam Riffle or Amber posed cuts to the state’s purchase lation from Northern Virginia raffles. Reservations are not re- Mitchell at (540) 635-3185, email of development rights program experienced in my District which quired but early registration will [email protected] and the Virginia Outdoors Foun- began with the completion of I-66 ensure the bride receives a good- or amitchell@frontroyalchamber. dation Land Conservation Ease- in 1980 within and on the bound- ie bag filled with free gifts and in- com or visit the event website at ment Program be rolled back aries of our existing towns. formation provided by the spon- www.idobridalshowcase.com in the proposed amendments If you would like to contact me sors and exhibitors. to Governor Kaine’s proposed in Richmond call me at 1-804- The selection of vendors in- budget. My Legislative District 698-1018 or Email delcathey@ cludes not only photography and disproportionately benefits from house.virginia.gov flowers, but catering, jewelry de- Edward Jones praised both of these conservation pro- As always, I thank you for your sign, cosmetics, stationary, wed- grams and with the glut of unde- continued support to serve the ding accessories, gifts and wine The financial-services firm Ed- veloped large lot by right residen- 18th House District. and cake tastings. Vendors and Business counseling ward Jones ranked No. 2 on tial development which occurred sponsors to date include: Deb- FORTUNE magazine’s “100 Best on our farmland over the last ten bie’s Ivy Garden, Bowling Green The Lord Fairfax Small Business Companies to Work For 2009” years, the Governor’s cuts to pro- Country Club, The Knot, Clas- Development Centers will offer list in its 10th year on the pres- grams will encourage further ur- sic Tuxedos, Formalities, Blake individual counseling by appoint- tigious list, according to Bret ban sprawl. & Co. Hair Spa, Baked to Per- ment with David Fuller, from the Bridal Showcase Makes Hrbek, Richard Mason and Finally, Senator Vogel and I are fection, Freelance Photography, Virginia Department of Business Wedding Planning Easy George Karnes, all of Front Roy- patroning this session and have Cakes by Ruth, Commonwealth Assistance. Mr. Fuller will be al. Edward Jones also ranked No. filed separate bills involving - Ur One Federal Credit Union, Cook- available at The Small Business Busy brides-to-be planning 1 for large-sized companies. The ban Development Area. This ie Lee Jewelry, Costco Wholesale, Development Center to counsel their special wedding day can full list and related stories appear year’s legislation builds upon the Generations Photography, Lia businesses on how to do business visit with more than 20 wedding in the February 2 issue of FOR- land use legislation I patroned Sophia Jewelry, Mary Kay Cos- with the Commonwealth. specialist at a free Bridal Show- TUNE, available on newsstands creating Urban Development Ar- metics, Julie Napear Photogra- Get one-on-one individual ad- case to be held from 12:00 to 3:00 Jan. 26 and currently at www.for- eas and road impact fees in 2007. phy, Northern Virginia Daily, vice in Culpeper on Friday, Feb- p.m. Sunday, February 8 at Bowl- tune.com. This year’s bill would apply UDA’s Shenandoah Florist, State Farm ruary 27, and in Middletown, on ing Green Country Club North in The FORTUNE ranking is one to all towns and cities to ensure Insurance, The Warren County Tuesday, March 17 and April 21. Front Royal, VA. of several important honors that our cities and towns absorb Report, Shenandoah Productions The SBDC is available to assist The event will also showcase based on associate input that mixed use residential, commer- and many more. you with your business concerns Bowling Green Country Club, Edward Jones has received in cial, and industrial development As a bride-to-be don’t miss the please call 540-937-2919 for an a unique setting that provides appointment in Culpeper or 540- recent weeks. In early Decem- to help avoid urban sprawl on the ideal location to host corpo- opportunity to get a jump start rural farmland outside of towns rate, private, and civic gatherings and cities. throughout the year as well as time or vacation pay. to the kind of debt cancellation In my opinion, we must also picturesque weddings. What bet- --If you get unemployment com- that is taxable. See the details in maintain funding for land con- ter place for brides and grooms to pensation, it’s taxable. Publication 4681. servation programs so that we seal their vows and express love --Even if your employer went -- If you have an installment out of business, it must provide agreement for a prior tax year, you a W-2 form by Jan. 31. Con- and you can’t meet your pay- tact the IRS for help in getting a ments because you’ve lost a job, substitute W-2. call the IRS. It’s possible that the

--For information on moving IRS will be able to reduce those 205 East Main Street Front Royal 540-635-5297 or cashing out an IRA, moving payments. Be prepared to supply Paying Taxes During Hard Open Monday through Saturday at 11AM Times costs to take a new job, getting proof of your changed situation. Serving Lunch, Dinner and Live Entertainment food stamps or selling assets, If you already suspect that you see IRS Publication 4128 (Tax won’t be able to pay all your Daily Lunch Specials served fast at By now you should have re- Impact of Job Loss). taxes by April, there are options a price you can afford ceived your W-2 or 1099 forms --Keep track of your mileage and such as a short-term extension, Join us for Valentine’s Day… for your taxes. If you’ve run the Live Music and Dinner Specials! numbers and suspect you’re go- expenses (including having a re- offer in compromise and install- ing to be short when it’s time sume written) while you hunt for ment agreements. Don’t be too Front Royal’s to pay, you’re not alone. Lots of a job. They might be deductible. hasty in setting up an arrange- Favorite Music Venue people are experiencing adverse See IRS Publication 529 if you ment, however. Your situation Live Music SCHEDULE financial situations right now, have expenses related to your could change by April. Friday 2/6: Shortness of Breath Friday 2/13: Eye Soar and the Internal Revenue Ser- work or if you move more than Saturday 2/7: Amanda Wilkins Band Sat 2/14: Mark Clay & Jimmy Polino vice knows this. It’s devoted a 50 miles away to take a new job. David Uffington regrets that he Monday 2/9: Dewey & Lenny Monday 2/16: Dave Elliott whole section of its Web site to --Debt cancellation generally in- cannot personally answer reader Tuesday 2/10: Travelin’ Jack Tuesday 2/17: Ralph Fortune help you. curs a tax liability. For example, questions, but will incorporate Wednesday 2/11: Ralph Fortune Wednesday 2/18: John Landes if you settle a credit-card debt them into his column whenever Thursday 2/12: Church St. Project Thursday: Vaughan Brothers Gather your information now. for less than you owe, the for- possible. Write to him in care of The worst thing you can do is delay making a game plan. given amount becomes income King Features Weekly Service, FREE WIRELESS! that is taxable. However, this is P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL Here are some things you need Visit our websites for up to date LSL news: to know: not necessarily so with mortgage 32853-6475, or send e-mail to http://www.zen2go.net --If you lose your job and get forgiveness, including foreclo- [email protected]. Or www.myspace.com/luckystarlounge severance pay, it’s taxable, in- sure. The Mortgage Debt Relief cluding any amounts for sick Act of 2007 creates exceptions (c) 2009 King Features Synd. Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 11 The news

ber, the firm was ranked No. 1 in than deaths) and net in-migra- ern Virginia to Hampton Roads. Registered Rep. magazine’s an- tion (more people moving in than Focusing on growth rates only nual brokerage report card for moving out) create Virginia’s tells part of the story, since some the 16th consecutive year. Last population growth. In the recent large localities have significant month, Edward Jones ranked No. past, these factors have contrib- population increases but fail to 4 among the “50 Best Employ- uted to Virginia’s growth in al- register as high-growth areas. ers in Canada” in the Globe and most equal measure. Natural in- Fairfax County, for example, has Mail’s annual listing in Report crease has been growing steadily the third-largest numerical in- on Business Magazine. Over the since 2000, adding nearly 50,000 crease in the state since 2000, past year, Edward Jones also has people to Virginia in recent years. adding more than 47,000 people. received workplace recognitions In contrast, migration rates fluc- Its growth rate of 4.9 percent is, from dozens of state and provin- tuate in response to national and however, below the state average cial publications in the U.S. and state economic conditions, and due to its very large initial popu- Canada. Virginia’s net in-migration vol- lation size. Edward Jones’ 10 FORTUNE ume is now only half what it was While most localities have rankings include top 10 finishes between 2000 and 2005. gained population since 2000, 35 for seven years and consecutive “Worsening economic condi- counties and cities are smaller No. 1 rankings in 2002 and 2003. tions appear to have limited pop- today than they were at the time ulation mobility, which is largely of the last census. These places driven by employment opportu- consist primarily of older central 437-A South Royal Avenue nities,” said Qian Cai, director of cities, such as Danville, Peters- Front Royal, VA 22630 the Cooper Center’s demograph- burg, Portsmouth, Richmond ics and workforce group. “In ad- and Roanoke, and rural localities 540-635-9808 dition, the dire housing market in Southside and Southwest Vir- www.samsneadrealty.com • Fax: 540-635-7128 • Toll Free: 800-292-3548 Economic Factors Slow State discouraged potential movers ginia. Population Growth Rate, who fear having trouble selling The central cities are losing 142 Winesap Lane • Huntly, VA According to Latest U.Va. their homes or having to pay two population because more people Estimates mortgages.” are leaving than are being added COUNTRY RAMBLER Although the Virginia economy by natural increase. Population nestled in 26 secluded acres, Economic conditions, includ- continues to perform well com- losses in Southside and South- complete with rock walls and ing the recession and a stalled pared to the nation as a whole west Virginia result from natu- the Rappahannock River. housing market, appear to have (the state’s November jobless rate ral decrease (an excess of deaths Surrounded by beautiful slowed the rate of population of 4.6 percent is well below the over births) as well as net migra- farm land. Three bedrooms, growth in Virginia, according to 6.5 percent U.S. rate), a rapid de- tion out of these areas, Spar said. two and a half baths, custom demographers from the Univer- cline in domestic migration is at The Cooper Center’s popula- stone fireplaces in living and sity of Virginia’s Weldon Cooper the heart of the commonwealth’s tion estimates are the official decelerating growth. figures for the commonwealth family rooms. Slate foyer, Center for Public Service. Declining migration has an im- of Virginia. The estimates are big country kitchen, screened in back porch, laundry room just off While the commonwealth’s mediate economic impact since based on changes since 2000 in kitchen and large double car garage. Located 5 minutes from Route population reached an estimated 7.8 million on July 1, 2008, Vir- migrating individuals or fami- the housing stock, school enroll- 522, Zachary Taylor Highway. Fifteen minutes to Front Royal. Easy lies typically include adults who ment, births, exemptions claimed access. ginia’s population is not grow- ing as fast as it did earlier this come for work or retirement, on state income tax returns and MLS#RP6857011 • $740,000 decade. Between 2000 and 2005, buy houses, purchase goods and driver’s licenses. They are used by the state’s average annual growth services for themselves and their state and local government agen- rate was around 1.2 percent. For families, and pay state and local cies in revenue sharing, funding American the past two years it has been less taxes. allocations and planning and than 1 percent. “We can expect a continued budgeting purposes. Red Cross Natural increase (more births slowing of the state’s growth through 2009, and probably into Valentine’s Day 2010 as well,” said demographer Mike Spar, who prepared the Dance! Advertise in population estimates. “The two • Saturday, February 14, 2009 from factors most responsible for slow- 7pm-11pm at Bowling Green Country Front Royal ing growth — the recession and Club North the housing crisis — are unlikely • Tickets: $25 Per Person (Inc. DJ, and Warren to resolve any time soon. Until Karaoke, 2 Drink Tickets & Snacks!) they do, domestic migration will Please contact me for tickets or call County’s local not return to its previous high the Red Cross: 635-2333 level.” newspaper! Although the state’s growth rate is slowing, 43 jurisdictions have Beth Medved Waller, Inc population growth rates greater R-MA juniors to enjoy 540-671-6145 • [email protected] than the state’s, which has grown traditional ring ceremony Top Producer again in December with over 1.1 million in ratified contracts-- Call Leanne Bryant 9.7 percent since 2000. Loud- now’s the time to buy! oun County has grown by nearly On Sunday, February 8, 2009, 70 percent in that same period. at 7:30 pm, the seventh annual See my listings online on nearly 100 websites Ring Ceremony will be held on including front page exposure on Realtor.com 540-305-6347 Other high-growth localities are [email protected] the R-MA campus, with some and 80 other popular real estate sites! located along the Interstate 95 corridor, stretching from North- significant changes. For the last Page 12 • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009

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six years, the ceremony has tradi- making it a far superior location lutions and Continuing Educa- WorkKeys is a comprehensive tionally been held in Turner Hall for the event. tion is offering the testing and skills assessment tool recognized with a formal meal the Wednes- The ceremony was moved to assessment necessary to obtain a by thousands of companies in the day evening before mid-winter a Sunday for the convenience of CRC. United States and by state and break. This year, in addition to parents who bring their students According to the CRC Web site federal agencies. being moved to Sunday evening, back to campus at the close of the (http://www.crc.virginia.gov/), According to the CRC Web it has been relocated to Boggs’ weekend, so they do not have to “Virginia’s Career Readiness Cer- site, “In the private sector, there Chapel. take off of work early to attend a tificate helps employers by - cer is great concern about the skills “This is an event that contin- weekday ceremony. Career Readiness Certificates tifying that a recipient possesses gap that exists between those ues to grow,” explained Marie T. Although there is normally am- offered core skills in applied math, read- skills required on the job and Smith, Director of Alumni Af- ple seating in Boggs Chapel, the ing for information and locating those exhibited by potential and fairs. “We have 47 students re- entire cadet corps will be attend- Beginning in January 2009, the information — skills that are re- incumbent workers. Employ- ceiving rings next month. We ing the ring ceremony. Family, Virginia Community College Sys- quired by at least 85 percent of all ers experience great difficulty realized the chapel would give us friends, and alumni planning to tem (VCCS) is partnering with jobs profiled by ACT WorkKeys® in hiring people who have basic more seating, but more impor- attend are asked to RSVP to Ms. the Commonwealth of Virginia in the country.” employability skills and who are tantly, it is a beautiful setting that Smith at [email protected] or to offer a Career Readiness Cer- The certificate is based on es- therefore trainable for specific adds an extra element of formal- 540-636-5483. Any media inter- tificate (CRC) to individuals who tablished WorkKeys assessment jobs. The Career Readiness Cer- ity to the ring ceremony.” Added ested in attending should contact desire a skills assessment creden- tests related to reading, applied tificate is a portable skills creden- to the visual appeal was the fact Celeste Brooks at cbrooks@rma. tial. As part of the VCCS, Lord math and locating information. tial, ensuring employers of a job that a new sound system was edu or 540-636-5482. Fairfax Community College’s Individuals may take assessment seeker’s skills.” installed in the chapel this year, (LFCC) Office of Workforce So- tests geared toward general pro- Individuals interested in ob- fessionals, health care employ- taining the CRC and adding this ees and manufacturing workers. credential to their résumé, may A: The first thing to do is mea- tion. Make sure you have all the sure your closet space so that appropriate tools before starting you know exactly how much work, and remember the axiom -ODULAR"ATTERY 3TORAGE shelving you can put into it. “measure twice, cut once.” Fig- Take a tape measure and get the ure out that final configuration height, width and the depth of before starting the shelving in- the closet. You’ll need this in or- stallation. You’re working with der to make the correct kit pur- drywall and studs, so you don’t WHOLESALE PRICING chase. want to have to pull things out at the Happy Creek Technology Park By Samantha Mazzotta Next, decide what configura- of that wall once they’re placed. tion you’d like in the closet: how of EAGLE & Other Safety Products Installing Closet Shelves many shelves, how much hang- HOME TIP: An electronic stud ing space and so on. finder is an invaluable tool for Q: I want to set up more shelves Third, compare shelving kits at locating precisely where studs &LAMMABLE &LUIDS3TORAGE and hanging rods in my small a home-improvement or hard- are placed behind drywall, so #ABINETS bedroom closet so that I can ware store to the kits available keep one in your toolkit. store more stuff in it. I decided at most department stores. You to get some of those white, met- may find more choice at a home Send questions or home-repair improvement store, plus the tips to homeguru2000@hotmail. al-grid shelving kits that you just THE#ENTURION screw into the wall because they ability to expand or change your com, or write This Is a Hammer, 0ORTABLE %XTINGUISHER cost less and are supposedly easy configuration by purchasing in- c/o King Features Weekly Ser- 3TAND to install. But I don’t have a clue dividual components. vice, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, 4YPE how to go about this. Any tips? Finally, follow the directions FL 32853-6475. 3TORAGE#ANS -- Frank in Chesapeake Bay closely when doing the installa- (c) 2009 King Features Synd.

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Send your brief news items and press releases to [email protected] The news

contact LFCC’s Office of Work- to 3,616 in January, compared to of available federal, state, and lo- percent of state and local law • Gang members are the pri- force Solutions and Continuing 7,072 in January 2008. Tempo- cal law enforcement information; enforcement agencies reported mary retail-level distributors of Education at 540-868-7021 or rary construction and the down- 2008 NDIC National Drug Threat that criminal gangs were active in most illicit drugs. They also are visit http://www.lfccworkforce. turn in the economy are the likely Survey (NDTS) data; and verified their jurisdictions in 2008 com- increasingly distributing whole- com. culprits. open source information. pared with 45 percent of state sale-level quantities of marijuana The CRC program is supported “Gangs have long posed a threat and local agencies in 2004. and cocaine in most urban and by Gov. Tim Kaine under the Ed- to public safety, but as this study suburban communities. ucation for a Lifetime initiative. shows, gang activity is no longer • Gang members are migrating Oversight of the program is the merely a problem for urban areas. from urban areas to suburban • Some gangs traffic illicit drugs responsibility of the senior advi- Gang members are increasingly and rural communities, expand- at the regional and national lev- sor to the governor for workforce moving to suburban America, ing the gangs’ influence in most els; several are capable of com- development. bringing with them the potential regions; they are doing so for a peting with U.S.-based Mexican for increased crime and violence,” variety of reasons, including ex- DTOs. said Assistant Director Kenneth panding drug distribution terri- W. Kaiser, FBI Criminal Investi- tories, increasing illicit revenue, • U.S.-based gang members il- gative Division. recruiting new members, hiding legally cross the U.S.–Mexico National Gang Threat Assess- from law enforcement, and es- border for the express purpose ment Issued Other key findings are as follows: caping other gangs. Many sub- of smuggling illicit drugs and il- urban and rural communities are legal aliens from Mexico into the According to the 2009 National • Local street gangs, or neighbor- experiencing increasing gang-re- United States. Gang Threat Assessment re- hood-based street gangs, remain lated crime and violence because leased by the National Gang In- a significant threat because they of expanding gang influence. • Many gangs actively use the In- telligence Center (NGIC) and the continue to account for the larg- ternet to recruit new members National Drug Intelligence Cen- est number of gangs nationwide. • Criminal gangs commit as and to communicate with mem- ter (NDIC), approximately one Most engage in violence in con- much as 80 percent of the crime bers in other areas of the United junction with a variety of crimes, in many communities, accord- States and in foreign countries. State river park attendance million gang members belonging to more than 20,000 gangs were including retail-level drug distri- ing to law enforcement officials Attendance at “Andy Guest” criminally active in the U.S. as of bution. throughout the nation. Typical • Street gangs and outlaw mo- Shenandoah River State Park fell September 2008. The assessment gang-related crimes include alien torcycle gangs pose a growing was developed through analysis • According to NDTS data, 58 smuggling, armed robbery, as- threat to law enforcement along sault, auto theft, drug trafficking, the U.S.– Canada border. They tional childhood institution. car to a luxury car. Thirty-eight extortion, fraud, home invasions, frequently associate with Can- thousand cars were initially sold, identity theft, murder, and weap- ada-based gangs and criminal • On Feb. 11, 1916, Emma Gold- making the T-Bird one of only ons trafficking. organizations to facilitate vari- man, a crusader for women’s two American cars to increase ous criminal activities, including rights and social justice, is ar- sales between 1957 and 1958. rested in New York City for lec- turing and distributing materials • On Feb. 9, 1971, pitcher Le- Accidents & Personal Injury • On Feb. 14, 278 A.D., Valen- about birth control. Goldman, roy “Satchel” Paige becomes the tine, a holy priest in Rome, is nicknamed “Red Emma,” was first Negro League veteran to be Law Offices of Thomas H. Sayre executed for continuing to per- later convicted and spent time nominated for the Baseball Hall form marriages for young lovers in jail. of Fame. He earned his nick- Civil & Criminal Trials in secret after Emperor Claudius name as a boy when he earned the Cruel banned all marriages • On Feb. 12, 1924, American money carrying passengers’ bags Concentrating in: and engagements. Legend has it composer George Gershwin’s at train stations. that while in jail, Valentine left “Rhapsody in Blue” is per- • Adoptions a farewell note for the jailer’s formed for the first time as part • On Feb. 10, 1996, after three daughter and signed it “From of a concert in New York City. hours, world chess champion • Child Custody Your Valentine.” Gershwin’s other works include Gary Kasparov loses the first • Social Security “An American in Paris,” written game of a six-game match • On Feb. 15, 1903, toy-store in 1928 and used as a ballet for against Deep Blue, an IBM com- Disability owner and inventor Morris Mi- Gene Kelly in the 1951 movie of puter capable of evaluating 200 • Serious Auto chtom places two stuffed bears the same name. million moves per second. Kasp- Accidents in his shop window, advertising arov was ultimately victorious, them as “Teddy” bears. Mich- • On Feb. 13, 1958, the first Ford however, as he bested Deep Blue • Wills & Deeds tom had earlier received permis- Thunderbird with four seats is in the match with three wins sion from President Theodore introduced. The four-passenger and two ties and took home the Roosevelt to use his nickname. “square bird” converted the top- $400,000 prize. Stuffed bears soon became a na- of-the-line Ford from a sports (c) 2009 King Features Synd.

Licensed in VA & WV Advertise in Front Royal & Warren County’s local newspaper! 540-636-7777 Telecopier: 540-636-3763 Call Leanne Bryant: 540-305-6347 222 E. Main St. Front Royal, VA 22630 [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] • www.sayrelawoffice.com Page 14 • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009

The news Send your brief news items and press releases to [email protected]

drug smuggling into the United out. Have a digital camera? Hav- Trips run from mid-June through committee after a two-year stint County High School Auditorium. States. ing a problem figuring out how mid-August for youth aged 9-13, as the top Republican on the Tickets are $5. to make it work properly? Bring 12-15, and 14-18. For more infor- State-Foreign Operations panel. your camera, charged battery, mation, please call Avery Born at Wolf was the chairman of the download cord and instruction (540) 635-7171 or visit the web- CJS subcommittee from 2001 manual to the class. Learn hands site at: http://www.nova4h.ext. – 2006 when it also had jurisdic- on downloading, organizing, re- vt.edu. Camps fill up quickly, so tion over the State Department. sizing, saving to CD, and e-mail- act fast! It was during his tenure as chair- ing your photos. Limit 24. Reg- man that the two anti-gang task istration Fee: $30.00. Registration forces operating in the region Deadline: February 19th. were established. He also pushed for the creation of the National Digital camera course offered Gang Intelligence Center at the FBI, which serves as a national Technology Today – Internet clearinghouse for information on and Digital Camera Beginner’s gang-related activity. Course February 26th, 2009 Wolf returns to subcommittee Wolf served as chairman of the Have fun while learning to navi- with oversight of Justice Transportation subcommittee gate the internet, create and send Department from 1995 – 2000. e-mail messages with attach- Wilderness Adventure Camps Janice Hart hired by FRPD ments and avoid getting viruses. Rep. Frank Wolf (R-10th) has received his committee assign- Learn “e-mail courtesy” and the The Northern Virginia 4-H The Front Royal Police Depart- ments for the 111th Congress. language of the Internet. It is not Center is accepting “early-bird” ment is pleased to announce that Wolf, the senior member of the as scary as it seems, come find reduced-fee registration for its Community Relations Specialist Virginia congressional delega- WILDERNESS ADVENTURE Janice Hart has completed train- tion, will continue to serve on the Advertise in Front Royal CAMPS. These trips are - de ing to become a Certified Crime powerful House Appropriations signed for the camper who wants Prevention Specialist. & Warren County’s local Committee, where he will be to experience nature in its true “This certification allows the the top Republican on the Com- newspaper! elements. Qualified, experiences police department to better in- merce-Justice-Science (CJS) Ap- leaders will take participants form our citizens in ways they propriations subcommittee. He backpacking, caving, whitewater can protect themselves and their also will continue to serve on the Call Leanne Bryant rafting, rock climbing, mountain property, thereby decreasing Transportation Appropriations biking, and canoeing through- Warren County High School their chances of being a victim 540-305-6347 subcommittee. [email protected] out Virginia and West Virginia. presents the play ‘Noises Off!’ on of a crime,” according to Interim Wolf returns to the CJS sub- All basic equipment is provided. Feb 18-21st at 7pm in the Warren Chief Richard H. Furr. “As our na- Headlamps yellowed and dingy?

Ricks Auto Care can restore them to bright and clear for a fraction of the Your Hometown Full Service Auto Repair And Tire Center cost of new • Engine Diagnostics• Tune-Ups • Brakes • Shocks headlamps. • Suspension•• Exhaust Cooling System Improve visability Competitive Rates Foreign & Domestic BG Engine Services Professional Service Interstate Batteries at night and Brand Name Tires 2088 John Marshall Hwy., Front Royal, VA 22630 during inclement 540-636-4040 weather for safer [email protected] winter driving Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 15 The news

tion faces tough economic times ate a garden for hospice patients, a dream, this may be your chance and a possible rise in crime rates, start a business or create a non- to see it come true. it is important that the citizens of profit. Front Royal know what preventa- Past applicants and recipients tive steps they can take.” may reapply every year. Grants The Front Royal Police De- range in amounts from $500 - partment offers many programs $1,000. Consider applying your- to residents and businesses, in- self or give it to another woman Cakes, cookies and brownies cluding Neighborhood Watch, that might be ready for a new Business Watch, Citizen’s Police dream in her life. for all occasions. Call Tina Academy, personal safety aware- Applications are available: ness presentations, Community • From www.frwrc.org or today to place your order! Awareness Bulletins, and secu- www.frwrc.or/d/daretodreamappnew.pdf rity assessments. The nation- • Royal Oak Bookshop ally recognized “Refuse to Be a • Samuels Library Victim” training and many more • or by calling the FRWRC office 540-635-5247 R-MA Middle School writing educational opportunities are for mail or pickup 636-7007. Of- contest announced www.bakedtoperfection.com also available through the Crime fice hours are Wednesday 9AM Prevention Office. -11AM. Randolph-Macon Academy Ms. Hart began her career with Mail all applications to: FR- Middle School is holding its fifth the Front Royal Police Depart- WRC, PO Box 1784, Front Royal, annual Scholarship Writing Con- Postal Business Center ment in January 2005 as a Vol- VA 22630. test, open to all local (from War- 122 W. 14th St. • Front Royal, VA unteer Coordinator for the police The deadline for applications is ren, Frederick, Page, Shenandoah, department’s “Volunteers in Po- February 15, 5:00 p.m. If you have Clarke, Fauquier, and Rappahan- Located next door to lice Service” (VIPS) program. In July of 2007 she was hired as the Melting Pot Pizza Community Relations Specialist for the department. About 20,000 people read this Packing • Shipping • Moving boxes • To contact Ms. Hart concern- ing these and many more oppor- paper. Mailbox rentals • Notary • FAX • Laminating tunities to partner with the Front • Copies Royal Police Department, please call 540-631-2763. An ad this size costs about a 540-635-7997 540-635-2186 (fax) hundred bucks.

We’re Here To Serve You With Many Business Is your Services!

It’s Time Again To Dare To b u s i n e s s Dream benefiting THE APPLE HOUSE The Front Royal Women’s Re- source Center is beginning our OF LINDEN, VA Dare to Dream cycle for 2009 from the SINCE 1963 grants. Applications are avail- able beginning Dec. 1, 2008. Any area’s best FRIDAY NIGHT BUFFETS ARE BACK! Call to add your email woman, age 18 years and older to our list for menu updates! NEW Spring Vera Bradley has and a resident of Warren County advertising arrived and the line is gorgeous! PINKS! GREENS! PURPLE! may apply. The grant’s goal is to MORE! Check out our continuing SALES! provide women with an opportu- deal? nity to take a bold step forward in their lives or to support the momentum if they are already on their way. Past applicants have used their grants to attend classes Let’s talk at Lord Fairfax Community Col- lege, purchase computers, buy about it. books, attend beauty school, cre-

540-636-6329 540-305-6347 EXIT 13 OFF I-66• 7 Days a Week Please let our advertisers know you [email protected] saw them in Warren County Report! [email protected] Page 16 • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009

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nock Counties, and the city of within a 30-minute commute of ing applications for arts educa- tions/institutions are available tions for the fiscal year 2009-10 Winchester) students currently the campus in order to be eligible tion grants. online at www.mplf-arts.org, by is March 16. Applications must in grades 5-7. for the day program. Awards will be made for specific writing MPLF at the address be- be mailed to Marion Park Lewis “This contest has been inspir- Essays must be 400-600 words educational projects that develop low or by emailing info@mplf- Foundation, 1520 Commerce St. ing,” said R-MA Middle School in length, and are due by March the talent and knowledge of the arts.org #116 , Winchester , VA 22601 . Principal Carolyn Chappell. 15, 2009. Essays may be hand- artist or non-profit group. The deadline for grant applica- “Each year we receive essays that delivered to the open house be- Grants may be applied toward simply fill you with hope when ing held at 2:00 pm that day. The the cost of training (domestic or you think that these students will essay topic, additional informa- abroad), and course(s) of study be our future leaders.” tion and an application packet in secondary schools, colleges, or The contest is open only to non- are available by contacting the universities. R-MA students who are consid- Middle School office at 540-636- Grantees may also study or ering enrolling in the Academy 5480, or visiting the web site at work with art companies, such for the 2009-10 school year. The www.rma.edu. as ballet or opera companies, or first-place scholarship award is a study with individual artists. one-time grant of $2,000, which Applicants should reside, and will be applied to the winner’s organizations should be lo- R-MA tuition for the 2009-2010 cated, in the Northern Shenan- school year. Students do not doah Valley , including the City need to be accepted to R-MA in of Winchester and the counties order to compete in the contest, of Frederick , Clarke, Warren , but winners must apply and be Shenandoah, Page, and Rocking- accepted to the Academy in order ham in Virginia , and the counties to receive the awards. of Jefferson and Berkeley in West The contest is primarily in- Virginia . Recipients should dem- tended for day students, as the onstrate talent and promise in a scholarship results in a signifi- recognized art form. The evalua- cant tuition reduction for day tors look for evidence of commit- student families; middle school ment to the chosen discipline, as tuition for 2009-10 is $10,189, well as accomplishment and po- with books, uniforms and other tential. Artistic organizations or expenses bringing the total cost Foundation accepting grant institutions that are primarily to $12,439. However, students applications supported by public funds are interested in the boarding pro- not eligible. gram at R-MA are also welcome The Marion Park Lewis -Foun Guidelines and applications to participate. Students must live dation for the Arts is now accept- for individual and organiza- Italian Restaurant freezer for about 15 minutes be- If you are frustrated by knot- “Authentic Italian Meals” fore you chop. Also, do it on the ting embroidery thread, run a · Pasta · Pizza stove area with the fan going, or sheet of fabric softener over the use a small fan blowing the on- thread. It can be a used sheet · Steaks · Chicken ion fumes away from you. Hope if necessary, but I find that a · Veal · Stromboli this helps other crying chefs.” -- fresh one works best. The fabric · Full Course Dinners A.D. in Missouri softener keeps the thread slick, · Beer, Wine & Cocktails and it knots way less.” -- T.F. in · Take Out Available • “Give mini blinds a quick wash- Georgia ing in the tub. I take mine down, A Great Taste from Italy to the Valley throw them in a filled tub with • Go Green Tip: For shorter Mon thru Thurs 11am - 10pm · Fri & Sat 11-11 · Sun Noon-10pm · Closed Tues a little powdered laundry deter- trips, consider taking a train. NOW HERE’S A TIP Bring this Ad in for 20% Off! gent and give them a shake. A Trains use less fuel and release Dine-In Only • Excludes Alcohol By JoAnn Derson quick wipe with a washcloth usu- less carbon emissions than air- ally takes care of anything stuck planes. And some trips can be • “I had bought some really on, then they get hung over the surprisingly cheap. Check out 865 John Marshall Hwy · Rt 55E near 522 Intersection beautiful wallpaper for my din- shower rod. About 10 minutes Amtrak’s routes and prices at ing room. I had some left over, of drip time gets them to a point www.amtrak.com. so I used it to line the drawers of where they can be hung back up my buffet. It looks like it was a in the window, and there they Send your tips to Now Here’s a custom job.” -- B.P. in Tennessee dry all the way very quickly, es- Tip, c/o King Features Weekly Advertise in Front Royal & Warren pecially if I do it on a sunny day.” Service, P.O. Box 536475, Or- • “I guess I’m pretty sensitive -- U.L. in Washington lando, FL 32853-6475 or e-mail County’s local newspaper! to whatever it is in onions that JoAnn at [email protected]. makes you cry. Here are two • “I love to work on embroidery, tricks that work for me when- Call Leanne Bryant: but it’s very annoying to have a (c) 2009 King Features Synd., 540-305-6347 ever I have to chop onions. First, thread that keeps knotting up. Inc. try putting your onion in the [email protected] Black & White

Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 17

“The jungle drums say somebody at Houlihan’s Restaurant eating their Rotary Club lunch today observed you also enjoying lunch and the fellowship … of your fellow Rotarians. Is this true?” I pray you are having the time of your life, enjoying [your vacation] … You are missed and I am eagerly awaiting your return to DSS drama update your office.” – William Pierceall e-mail to WCDSS Director Ron King DSS Board Chair lashes out at department’s critics Mathews says bad blood over firings, lost cases at root of ongoing disputes

ating anything as was mentioned by some of my detractors.”

Unpleasant memories

While Pierceall may not have seen issue with the tone of his e- mail remarks, one observer at the WCGC meeting room did. James Kilby Jr. has had a long role in the local Civil Rights Movement. His father James Sr. fought school segregation in Warren County and Virginia and his family and children, including James Jr., endured bitter racial hatred when they began attend- ing Warren County High School under court order in the 1960’s. WC Department of Social Services Board Chair Pru- Local county political critic William “Bill” Pierceall “It is troublesome – that was dence Mathews defends her board and its director explains his issues with the county social services hurtful and it’s wrong, really, to against what she believes are unfounded and obses- board, its chairman and the departments’ director. direct attacks like that on any sive criticisms. individual,” Kilby said after ob- Public Presentations criticism of And I don’t hold anything against serving the respective public By Roger Bianchini tar and feathering reference was Mathews and WCDSS, Pierceall them for bringing it up because it statements of both Mathews and Warren County Report in an e-mail about a sharp jump denied any racist intent in his re- deserves to be talked about. Pierceall. Kilby said the fact that in the most recent county real marks and accused Mathews of “What’s interesting is, I’ve used one of Pierceall’s primary targets The specter of burning torch- estate reassessments. She also turning to personal issues, rather that similar phrase [torches etc. for criticism, King, is black added es, tar and featherings, “jungle referenced Pierceall’s use of the than address the substance of his referenced by Mathews] a long, to the troubling specter of tar and drums,” and even lynchings was term “jungle drums” in an e-mail criticisms of the department. long time ago in e-mails that have featherings. raised on Feb. 3, as the ongo- she later explained was to DSS “I’m colorblind, literally. I don’t been sent to an equally broad au- “Absolutely, that is real trouble- ing dispute between three local Director King. see things in the same way they dience of recipients. And that’s some that it has racial overtones people and the Warren County “The jungle drums say some- do. [King’s] a man just like any- probably been misconstrued. I – we don’t need that in this county Department of Social Services body at Houlihan’s Restaurant body else and deserves all the re- can understand how they could today. It reminded me of 50 years ratcheted up a notch at the War- eating their Rotary Club lunch spect that any man is entitled to. do that. But I’ve used that more ago when they were attacking my ren County Board of Supervisors today observed you also enjoy- So, I don’t see it that way. I guess as a jocular term of citizens in father – it was awful, threats of meeting. ing lunch and the fellowship and there are people who are sensitive uprising over government ac- lynchings and all that. And I hate During a scheduled report on company of your fellow Rotarians. in that area – and rightfully so. tions, not anywhere near insinu- to see that in this day and time. the county social services depart- Is this true?” that Oct. 31, 2008 e- ment, WCDSS Board Chairman mail read, continuing, “I pray you Prudence Mathews quoted from are having the time of your life, Parkside several mass circulated e-mails enjoying [your vacation] to the KIE LAW, PLC sent by William “Bill” Pierceall fullest extent possible. You are Renovations critical of both the county gov- missed and I am eagerly awaiting ernment in general and the social your return to your office.” Nancie Gallegos Kie services department and its di- “Who comments on the per- • Handyman Former Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney for Warren County rector, Ron King, in particular. In sonal life of people he absolutely prefacing her remarks, Mathews does not know and who com- Services asserted that every point she ments in ugly, sarcastic words Areas of Practice: planned on making was a part and malicious and accusing • Drywall of the public record, which she comments, whose comments • Painting Criminal Defense • Personal Injury • DUI/Traffic Cases produced in a large pile of docu- take on a racist and slanderous Contested & Uncontested Divorces • Debt Collection ments at the podium from which tone,” Mathews asked the board. she spoke. Though she did not directly ref- • Remodeling Overweight Citations • Wills “It would do my heart good to erence it, Mathews has also been see a group of citizens appear in the target of a series of e-mails • Decks 437 South Royal Avenue • Suite G • Front Royal, Virginia protest outside the government from Pierceall referencing her • Small Jobs center bearing torches, a warm personal life and alleging poten- sticky liquid, chicken feathers tial, if thus far unsubstantiated 540.622.2KIE (2543) Donald B. Quarton and a strong wooden pole – I’ll conflicts of interest due to it. Call anytime. Walk-ins welcome. Free Consul- provide the matches,” Mathews Questioned after the supervi- tations and Evening Appointments available. quoted from an Aug. 20, 2008 e- sors adjourned to a closed session (540) 635-1943 Located in the Sam Snead Realty building. mail from Pierceall. The apparent and after he had delivered his own Black & White

Page 18 • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009

“Who comments on the personal life of people he absolutely does not know and who comments in ugly, sarcastic words and malicious and accusing comments, whose comments take on a racist and slanderous DSS drama update tone.” – WCDSS Board Chair Prudence Mathews on nature of Pierceall’s e-mails

I thought we had moved beyond 1999. Tederick noted that King’s stated McClosky’s grudge was that. And we need to put that to supervisor in another locality at over her termination by King. rest and move forward and let the time expressed distress at the Selover’s axe, in Mathews opin- social services do their work, in- potential of losing King, though ion, involves a lost adult care case stead of dealing with issues like he supported his employee’s involving her parents. Perhaps this.” qualifications as an applicant for ironically, Mathews scathing ap- Kilby said that in his work the WCDSS directorship. praisal of the trio of WCDSS crit- within the community, which “He is a noble and honorable ics came at the midpoint between includes a spot on the Salvation gentleman, a great man not de- two Warren County General Dis- Army Board that networks with serving of these relentless attacks trict Court hearings on Selover’s the county social services depart- on his character and race,” Ted- FOIA case against the social ment, he was not aware of any erick said of King. Tederick also services department (see related substantial problems with servic- agreed with Mathews’ descrip- story). es provided by the department. tion of the volume of Pierceall’s Mathews asserted that the “Everything I’ve heard has been attacks on WCDSS as troubling – county social services department good,” Kilby said of WCDSS. “I support FOIA but 138 e-mails had been cleared in all instances is obsessive, that’s not FOIA, it is involving the women: by an ar- In King’s defense mean-spirited and [from] a mean bitration board in McClosky’s heart.” employment case; by court order James Kilby Jr. and an unidentifed woman listen to Former county supervisor and and state social services review WCDSS Board Chair Prudence Mathews’ description WCDSS board rep Matt Tederick, in Selover’s case; and eventually Conspiracy theory of critical e-mails referencing tar and featherings present for remarks regarding his by a special grand jury review in and jungle drums as those e-mails’ author, William continuing support of north cor- Mathews also said that Pierceall a combined complaint involving Pierceall sits behind them. ridor commercial expansion, said had become involved with two both McClosky and Selover. Sel- he felt compelled to redirect his other WCDSS critics with per- over continues to remain com- and could not be reached by this been charged $600 or something public remarks, at least momen- sonal axes to grind in an attempt mitted to raising questions about paper. for a small number of pages.” tarily, to DSS issues. Tederick to “disrupt, destroy and take the quality of her invalided moth- Concerning a supposed “con- Pierceall explained that he had told the supervisors he had been over” the department. Mathews er’s care as provided by her father spiracy” against the county social acquired his requested informa- a member of the WCDSS board identified those people as termi- at her parents’ home. services department, Pierceall tion in electronic form burned that interviewed “dozens of appli- nated WCDSS fraud caseworker Pierceall downplayed his con- said, “What I find interesting onto a CD he provided, rather cants” for the department’s direc- Judith McClosky and local at- nection to the two women. He about that is [they’re] seeing a than in hard copies. torship when King was hired in torney Linda Selover. Mathews characterized his relationship to boogeyman behind every tree, Selover and McClosky as like- as it were. And I’ve told these Public accountability minded individuals pursuing the people all along that my actions same goal of accountability for are my own. I know Ms. Selover, During a post-meeting inter- PISTOL COURSES governmental actions. Contact- and in fact the reason I met her is view, Pierceall reiterated a Public ed, Selover said she was restrict- an article appeared in the paper Presentations remark he made • CONCEALED CARRY ed in commenting due to the about the exorbitant fee she had quoting President Obama on the • ADVANCED CONCEALED CARRY ongoing FOIA case. She said she to pay to obtain some FOIA doc- importance of transparency in • BEGINNERS hoped she could comment in the uments. I looked up her phone government. “The problem with wake of the pending Feb. 6 hear- number and called her and said, some old-time governments is a ing. According to Jan. 30 FOIA ‘You know, I just got 1,200 pages reluctance to fully disclose all that www.VirginiaPistol.com • 540-636-9476 hearing comments, McClosky is of meeting minutes for nothing, goes on as a matter of public gov- spending the winter in Florida didn’t cost me a penny.’ She had ernment. And for the reason that were cited in [President Obama’s] press release, it proceeds on to personal reputations primarily. About 20,000 people read this paper. And I think some of those con- cerns in that press release were properly voiced today.” In his remarks to the board, An ad this size costs just $150 in color or Pierceall accused Mathews of ma- neuvering board appointments $120 in black & white. to assure an extended tenure on the WCDSS board, as well as be- ing heavy handed in her chairing DSS meetings. Referencing what he said was Is your business benefiting from the area’s a high turnover rate at WCDSS, Pierceall quoted from the min- best advertising deal? utes of a 2004 WCDSS meeting at which a departing board member expressed a number of concerns about the work environment in Let’s talk about it. the social services department, calling it a climate of “fear and intimidation.” Pierceall said it 540-305-6347 • [email protected] appeared from the public record that Mathews had cut James Ste- Black & White

Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 19

“It would do my heart good to see a group of citizens appear in protest outside the govern- ment center bearing torches, a warm sticky liquid, chicken feathers and a strong wooden DSS drama update pole – I’ll provide the matches.” – quote from a William Pierceall mass e-mailing

NEED CASH? phens short in completing his his remarks, Pierceall said he was mid-town Front Royal and that a WCDSS meeting. “The final straw WE BUY OLD GOLD statement, saying, “We’ve heard unaware of any such connection. nine-block move of some belong- is the man friend crashing a pub- broken gold, coins & vintage watches. enough” and moving on to the However, Mathews later verified ings into an empty spec house lic meeting and telling a citizen CHAIN REACTION next agenda item. that Stephens’ daughter had been she and Burke have spent time in he will be waiting for him outside 441 SOUTH STREET Asked if Stephens was the employed at the department and never constituted a legal change to settle the score. I do not be- Front Royal, VA board member whose daughter left prior to Stephens’ resignation of residence. lieve there can be any doubt as to 540-636-7210 left a job at the WCDSS prior to and remarks to the board. Pierceall said his e-mail refer- where Ms. Mathews’ man friend ence to “the OK Corral” cited got his anger. There can also be X-rated staff by Mathews was being turned no doubt this man friend cannot around from its meaning in his e- control his rage,” Pierceall said. In opening his remarks to the mails. Rather than him, Pierceall Employment supervisors, Pierceall began, said others are the gunslingers on Ancient wisdom “Today’s controversy surround- the local political scene. ing Ronald King, and the staff “I said regarding the shootout at Pierceall concluded his post- Small Govt Contracting firm look- at Social Services, as well as the the OK Corral, it was a reflection meeting remarks to this reporter DSS Board and its members, are on a series of recent events that by delving into the history of po- ing for full time admin staffing. $8/ not breaking news. In fact, some seem to be escalating within the litical criticism. “I’m fond of us- of today’s issues go back 10 years county – citizens being tossed ing the quote over and over again, hr including full health benefits. Re- and are familiar territory to a few out of meetings, personal attacks 2,500 years ago the philosopher of you present today, including and threats – it just seemed to be Cicero is reputed to have said, spond to: Mr. Stanley, Mr. Carter, and per- the process of one event exceed- ‘When your argument lacks sub- haps Mr. Traczyk. I am not speak- ed the severity of the proceeding stance, abuse your adversaries.’ I ing into virgin ears when I ask Mr. event. And that’s why the OK try to deal in facts, figures, solid, http://www.ardentmc.com/careers/ Stanley to relate to this Board of Corral remark was made. I was independently verifiable infor- Supervisors during your closed pointing out the absurdity of how mation,” Pierceall stated. and select job listings/ front royal/ session meeting today what he some of these individuals will re- In the wake of the explosive Feb. knows about DSS employees us- act when I point out something.” 3 escalation of the verbal battle administrative support. ing their government computers Two months ago Mathews between Mathews and Pierceall, to facilitate selling of x-rated sex asked Pierceall to leave a DSS what remains at issue may be Advertisement toys and on-site massages.” board meeting when he began which of the adversaries in this Asked about that reference, photographing the board. case Cicero was describing more Pierceall later said during his ex- During his Feb. 3 remarks to accurately. 44 year old man needs tensive FOIA search of WCDSS the supervisors, Pierceall com- records he had come across an mented on what he believes was [email protected] e-mail from an employee he did a threatening statement to him enough work to survive not identify, inviting other staff, made by Burke at the January including the director, to an adult I can haul away any scrap metal you have around your home or farm products party. for free–presently I make $5.00 per hundred weight minus gas. I have means to haul away junk vehicles from your property for Getting personal? free–presently I make $5.00 per hundred weight minus gas & $50.00

trailer usage. Pierceall also told the super- I can also do minor home repairs, tree work, clean out buildings, visors he had filed eight mis- basements, attics, homes to be rented. Lawyers serving demeanor complaints with the I can also do hauling of anything on a pick-up. injured persons Virginia State Police, and was involved in: planning to file a voter fraud Very reasonable rates so please call and thanks! complaint with the local regis- • Automobile accidents trar or electoral board. While he Freezers–refrigerators, AC units, washers, dryers, furnaces, hot • Tractor-trailer chose not to elaborate on either accidents water heaters, iron tubs, sinks, piping, radiator heaters, car engines, of those filings on Feb. 3, Pierceall transmissions, all metal parts and much more hauled for free. I make has claimed Mathews’ compan- • Wrongful death cases $5.00 per hundred. ion Dennis Burke threatened him This country was made with the bartering system...so call and we • Workers’ at the January WCDSS meeting. compensation will do just that. 540-631-4020. He has also raised issue with losses which voting district Mathews If everyone would think about that one job they have been want- has recently voted in. Pierceall ing to get done and haven’t gotten done yet...then call me. Both you said he planned to attend a War- Carl N. Lauer and I would be happy. I would be working and your project would be ren County Electoral Board Managing Attorney done–I am affordable. meeting the following day (Feb. 4) to express his voter fraud con- 1-800-698-4907 Citizens? Anything for me? cerns. He did not verify whether 636-3030 Businesses? Anything for me? those concerns revolve around Contractors? Anything for me? his belief Mathews and Burke re- Realtors? Anything for me? located their town residence last year, changing but not reporting Nobody was forgotten...but this ad is now.... a change in their voting district. Mathews asserts her primary res- 540-631-4020 idence has remained constant in Black & White

Page 20 • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009

“The fact that people feel rightly or wrongly … [that it is personal], this case could go away if they just obeyed the law: if they produced the stuff without dragging it out; … All they have to do is obey the law DSS FOIA battle and not take it personal – just lay it out there, guys, then there’s no case.” – FOIA plaintiff attorney David Kaufman Selover’s FOIA battle with WCDSS plods onward Sides remain at odds over availability of nine years worth of records By Roger Bianchini legal and adequate. They have also little of substance established on closer to her attorney for a photo ing and told Pierceall he wanted Warren County Report requested that any subsequent missing documents during the as Kaufman engaged in a Q & A to talk to him. Admonished by reviews of that case be made by hearing, Houff scheduled a fol- with reporters. Mathews, who was chairing the One of several people attempt- outside agencies. Selover has low-up hearing for the afternoon “I guess you’ve never been meeting, that it was neither the ing to find records indicating in- continued to question the quality of Feb. 6. beaten up,” Selover replied as time nor place for private con- appropriate or even illegal activi- and nature of her mother’s care. That tempers are wearing thin she declined the photo request. versations, Burke added that he ties within the Warren County When a date for the next hearing on both sides of the FOIA dispute She did not elaborate on the re- would wait outside. Pierceall Department of Social Services on her FOIA case was discussed, was evident following the Jan. 30 mark. However, Bill Pierceall, says he took that to be a threat was in court again on that quest Selover’s attorney told the court hearing before Warren County with whom Selover was standing and called the Warren County on Jan. 30. Last fall, local attor- one proposed date conflicted General District Court Judge W. during her attorney’s impromptu Sheriff’s Office after the meeting ney Linda B. Selover filed a Free- with one of the supervised visits Dale Houff. press conference following the for an escort from the premises. dom of Information Act (FOIA) to her mother Selover is now al- Kaufman and Mitchell had a hearing, commented that, “this Asked if he had sworn an assault request on all records generated lowed under court order. testy exchange after court was Burke is a loose cannon.” warrant out due to the confron- from all WCDSS meetings dating Warren County and Selover en- adjourned. That exchange be- The reference was to WCDSS tation, Pierceall said, “No, I have back to the last millennium. For- tered into a formal agreement to gan with Mitchell’s request for Board Chair Mathews’ long-time other plans.” He did not elabo- tunately the last millennium end- provide access to the requested a list of documents Selover al- companion Dennis Burke, whom rate. ed only eight years ago on Dec. documents on Sept. 19, 2008. leges have not been provided to Pierceall has referenced in a num- 31, 2000 – imagine how frayed And Selover has spent portions her. Kaufman replied tersely that ber of mass-circulated e-mails FOIA parameters tempers would be if 1000 years of of two days a week, save a several his client could not possibly have suggesting potential conflicts of records were at issue, rather than week gap due to illness, perusing had time to accumulate the list in interest by Mathews due to her As an attorney specializing in nine years worth dating to Jan. 1, those records at the WCDSS of- the wake of the just-completed relationship with Burke and ben- FOIA cases, Kaufman explained 2000. fice ever since. hearing. Mitchell expressed dis- efits Pierceall alleges the former his interest is not in the motiva- Selover also requested all re- The Jan. 30 hearing centered on dain for that explanation since FRPD policeman and federal se- tion of his clients’ but rather in cords, documents and communi- allegations there are missing doc- the plaintiff’s allegation of un- curity officer receives. At a War- assuring their ability to access cations generated by seven peo- uments related to some WCDSS supplied materials and Mitchell’s ren County Board of Supervisors public records of governmental ple with past or present ties to meetings over the past nine years. response to the allegation was the meeting earlier in the month, agencies assured by federal FOIA the county social services board. Warren County Attorney Blair basis of the just-concluded hear- Pierceall called for Mathews’ law and Virginia’s so-called Sun- Those people are WCDSS - Di Mitchell, representing the county ing. “impeachment” or resignation shine Act. rector Ron King, WCDSS Board social services department, said At one point as the hearing from her county DSS chairman- “My interest is in the Freedom Chairman Prudence Mathews, his understanding was the miss- discussion bogged down, Judge ship due to a variety of poten- of Information Act. I don’t ask my Julie Music, David Stasko, K. Ad- ing items were attachments or Houff pondered whether such tial, if unsubstantiated conflicts clients why they want a specific ams, and Jennifer Mitchell. Stasko documents referenced during cases shouldn’t begin at the cir- or alleged actions. Included in document or a set of documents. is a regional DSS representative. some of the meeting transcripts cuit court level since so often Pierceall’s summation of charges It’s irrelevant to the law. The law is Curl, Music, Mitchell and Adams Selover has reviewed. He added the losing side appeals, leading against Mathews was a verbal are all current or former WCDSS that after three years DSS is not to a repeat of the whole hearing confrontation Pierceall had with employees. Adams, like Judy Mc- required to keep all records asso- process at the next judicial level. Burke during a DSS meeting Jan. Closky, who was referenced as a ciated with meetings. Houff estimated five to 10 hours 15. potential plaintiff witness during Selover’s Fairfax-based attor- over five hearing dates before this Oddly perhaps, Mathews and the Jan. 30 hearing, is a former ney David Kaufman asked that case is resolved in his court. Pierceall appear to agree on the caseworker terminated by King. the county provide a list of ei- base facts, if not meaning of that Selover has had a long-standing ther unavailable documents or Side plots confrontation. According to both dispute with WCDSS over a case documents the county feels are Pierceall and Mathews, Burke en- involving her father’s provision exempt from Selover’s FOIA re- Outside the courtroom a re- tered the WCGC meeting room of in-home care for her invalided quest. Mitchell described such porter asked Selover to stand during the January DSS meet- mother. King and Mathews have exempted materials as gener- pointed out a court order upheld ally involving personnel or client- 3 for 2 Winter Special the decision her mother’s care was privileged adoptions files. With Bring in 3 pieces of Dry B&A SAVE Cleaning Get 1 FREE Cleaning 10%* TUESDAY ONLY Service * Good on regular drycleaning items only. Not valid on laundered shirts, specialty items, house- hold items, etc. Restrictions apply. Residential and Ledo Pizza & Pasta • Full Service Restaurant ACCESS DRY CLEANERS 135 Crooked Run Plaza, Front Royal, VA 29 E. Jackson St. Commercial *10% Off Dine In or Carry Out: 1 Coupon Per Party Front Royal 631-9300 683-6311 540-635-7400 Mon-Fri: 8am - 6pm • Sat: 9am - 2pm Great Rates Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 21

“There are a huge amount of documents over a [nine] year period. The plaintiff has had four months and is not finished. We need to get on – government has other jobs to do, though they must comply with FOIA law.” – WC General District Court Judge W. Dale Houff on Selover FOIA inquiry DSS FOIA battle

very specific. It says that why you more on personal vendettas, than the FOIA Agreement between want the document is irrelevant substantive violations of law or Selover and WCDSS has been to your right for that document procedure, Kaufman said, “It’s an in place. The two sides remain … I believe it’s 2.2 - 3700, 3701 [of interesting point. Virginia’s Sun- at odds over whether WCDSS the Virginia Sunshine Act] that shine Act specifically anticipated is making a goof-faith effort to says it doesn’t matter why you that kind of argument when they comply with FOIA law and the want it – you’re allowed to have wrote into the law it doesn’t mat- broad parameters of Selover’s re- it. And I’m a real big proponent ter why people want stuff. The quest. of the taxpayer’s right to know fact that people feel rightly or “And the issues revolve around, what their employees are doing,” wrongly, as you described and one, there are documents that are Kaufman said, adding, “And part the board feels [that it is person- referred to in either the minutes of the problem is the [DSS] board al], this case could go away if they or the recordings, which aren’t and Mr. Mitchell seem to want to just obeyed the law: if they pro- there and either they can’t find or make [the case] about this other duced the stuff without dragging are unwilling to produce – I don’t stuff but it doesn’t matter. it out; where they don’t have stuff know which,” Kaufman said. “The “I think one reason Ms. Selover [explain that]; ‘we’re not giving second issue has to do with the is fighting this hard is because she you 158 pages because it’s related seven people, and over the six- is a fighter. She doesn’t like peo- to an adoption; we’re not giving month period, what documents ple abusing her. And she’s feeling you 23 pages because it’s person- are there. And there have been Members of the press interview Linda Selover’s FOIA her rights are being infringed or nel related.’ The law lays out what almost no disclosures there. And attorney David Kaufman following Jan. 30 hearing. limited here,” Kaufman said of they can do. All they have to do is that raises in BIG RED ITALIC William Pierceall and Selover, obscured, are to right. his client. “And she’s not the only obey the law and not take it per- LETTERS, the whole issue of the one who’s pitching a wing-ding or sonal – just lay it out there, guys, privilege log. The statute again is whatever you want to call up here then there’s no case.” very specific. Where you’re go- time and materials the plaintiff period. The plaintiff has had in Front Royal. There are three or ing to withhold stuff, you have to should bear to compensate the four months and is not finished,” four other people who are on the Compliance or avoidance? be very specific – you have to list county and DSS for accommo- Houff observed from the bench same kind of quest.” what kind of stuff and how many dating the very broad FOIA ma- on Jan. 30. “We need to get on – Addressing the county and Kaufman described the Jan. 30 pages,” Kaufman explained of terials Selover is seeking. government has other jobs to do, WCDSS perception that Selover hearing as “a thumbnail” of what’s FOIA exempted material. “There are a huge amount of though they must comply with and those “others’ quest” is based happened over the 4-1/2 months Also at issue is the cost for staff documents over a [nine] year FOIA law.” IF YOU’VE GOT FLOORS OR WALLS, WE’VE GOT ‘EM COVERED SALES • SERVICE • INSTALLATION

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I’m so thankful to be able to share my story with our community -- it’s a story of hope for Community so many.

March for Babies Ambassador Child named He also stated that we’d be doing got to hold and nurse my baby The most urgent infant health weekly ultrasounds to monitor boy. When he was born I knew problem in the U.S. today is pre- the baby’s lungs, and as soon as he’d look different since he was mature birth. It affects more than his lungs moved (showing he was a preemie, but no one could have half a million babies each year, breathing on his own) we’d begin prepared me for how tiny he with the number growing every to talk about inducing labor for was or how “yellow/orange” he day. The March of Dimes issued a my health. I went on with my day looked from being jaundiced. The Report Card on Premature Birth, and went to bed that night. following day we went home, and giving both the nation and Vir- For some reason, I woke up at had outpatient treatments for his ginia a D. Babies born too soon 1:45 am, feeling strange – and re- jaundice for approximately 10 are more likely to die or have dis- alized I was in labor. At Warren days. abilities. The March of Dimes is Memorial Hospital, my doctor Thanks to having the very sup- committed to reducing this toll decided that he wanted to keep portive, talented, and experi- by funding research to find the me pregnant as long as possible, enced Dr. Christoph, partnered answers to premature birth and by keeping me flat on my back. with March of Dimes research, providing comfort and informa- He also started to prepare the my weak, sluggish preemie has tion to families who are affected. baby as much as possible so he gone from 6lbs 5oz at birth, to a Participation in March for Ba- gave me a steroid shot to help healthy, robust, 21lbs by one year bies will provide a memorable speed development of his lungs of age! and rewarding day for the whole – a treatment developed, in part, I’m so thankful to be able to family. “In addition to the three- by research invested in by the share my story with our commu- mile walk, food, and fellowship, March of Dimes. nity -- it’s a story of hope for so March for Babies is an opportu- Bryce Culley – Front Royal March for Babies’ 2009 At 11am the doctor took a fluid many. Thanks to each and every nity to teach children the value Ambassador Child sample to see where the baby’s person who directly or indirectly of volunteering—how their gifts lung development was; much to supports the life-saving research of time, energy and money, no By Jamie Culley niotic fluid. With the help of a our horror they were still under and work of the March of Dimes matter the size, can have a big 2009 Ambassador Mom special diet and insulin, my dia- developed. That is when I real- – I can’t tell you how much it impact when they’re part of sup- Front Royal March for Babies betes was brought under control; ized how serious this situation does for so many families. porting a worthy cause,” said so we viewed it not as ‘the end of was and that there was nothing Mrs. Hamel. “And for families of In April 2007, our family was the world,’ but just a diagnosis to more I could do other than to Information on the walk all sizes and ages, supporting the surprised to find that we were ex- cope with for another three and a pray. Later on that evening I re- cause of healthy babies is a per- pecting baby number three. Since half months. ceived another steroid shot in On Saturday, April 4, 2009, at fect match!” our other two pregnancies went Two months later, on Novem- hopes that I wouldn’t give birth Lions Park’s Fantasyland Shelter, In 2009 national March for well and ended with two healthy, ber 27, I went in for my weekly until the next afternoon. residents will put aside whatever Babies sponsors are Kmart, the full term children, we had no idea doctor appointment. During On November 29th, at 12:03am, cares they each may have to join March of Dimes number one what a bumpy road we’d be in for that appointment my obstetri- Bryce was born – and imme- together in support of Warren corporate supporter, CIGNA, in the next several months. cian said everything was “going diately hooked up to monitors County’s babies by participat- Continental Airlines, Famous The pregnancy was unevent- great” -- but he wanted me to and IV’s. EMT’s were stationed ing in March for Babies. “Help- Footwear, Farmers Insurance ful until mid-September, when I have a standing order for fetal outside my hospital room in ing babies be born healthy is Group of Companies, FedEx, found out I had gestational dia- monitoring, “just in case some- preparation to whisk him away to vital to the hope and future of First Response, Liberty Tax Ser- betes, resulting in excessive am- thing happens after office hours”. NICU at the Winchester Medical our community,” said Melanie vices, Mead Johnson Nutrition Center, if necessary. Hamel of Weichert, Realtors, and and Ther-Rx. Front Royal March A check of his sugar levels 2009 March for Babies Chair. for Babies is also sponsored, in found them dangerously low, so “One day, all babies will be born part, by Royal Broadcasting and he was given glucose to stabilize healthy, but we’re going to have Warren Memorial Hospital. them. Within the hour, I finally to walk to get there.” To join in, visit marchforbabies. org, or call toll-free (866) MOD BABY to sign up as an individual, Decor and More Interiors to start a corporate, family or Interior Decorating Consulting Services for Residential Customers friends team, or donate to help Serving Warren & All Surrounding Counties and Builders/Developers babies be born healthy. Partici- “Producers of Quality Buildings for 36 years” • Home, Room & Office • Wall/Window Treatments pants can also pick up sponsor forms at Kmart. • Re-roof & Re-side Existing Structures • Furniture & Accessories The March of Dimes is the lead- • Horse Barns & Arenas • Computerized Floor Plans ing nonprofit organization for • Commercial Buildings • Real Estate Staging • Planning Events pregnancy and baby health. With • Machinery Storages • Redesign and More! chapters nationwide and its pre- • Garages mier event, March for Babies, Laurie Cornett the March of Dimes works to im- Decorator - Graduate of the Art Institute of Pittsburg prove the health of babies by pre- www.decorandmoreinteriors.com venting birth defects, premature Serving MD, WV and VA birth and infant mortality. For 1.800.842.0276 • [email protected] (304) 496-7358 or (304) 813-5326 the latest resources and informa- tion, visit marchofdimes.com or www.timberlinebuildings.com nacersano.org Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 23

These FRPD public community meetings are a new initiative begun by Furr and depart- ment Community Relations Specialist Janice Hart. Hart is a Certified Crime Prevention Community Specialist for the Town of Front Royal.

Town police kick off community relations initiative By Lorie Showalter of North Sector patrols offered by miliarity between patrolmen and the police department with the nity involvement and suggested Warren County Report the meeting’s 15 citizen attend- the community with emphasis on community. The Citizen’s Police keeping our “eyes and ears” open. ees. The few questions posed had wanting “to hear from the public,” Academy, one such successful The Neighborhood Watch Pro- An African proverb states, “It little to do with the subject of the Furr said. Monday night’s meet- venture, will begin its ninth year, gram and the Con Games Pro- takes a village to raise a child.” meeting, as illustrated by one of ing focused on the North Sector beginning February 3rd and con- gram both work towards part- One might equally conclude from the most pressing queries – when residents and businesses north of tinue for 13 weeks. This program nering the police department and the Feb. 2, Front Royal Police De- is the North Fork Bridge going to 6th Street. is designed to educate the public the community. One resident partment community meeting at be completed? Being as it is not The Front Royal Police Depart- about law enforcement services had reported a scam in which an the Warren County Government their role to oversee that project, ments stated mission is “commit- and fosters understanding and individual claimed to represent Center that it takes a community FRPD representatives had no an- ment to providing the highest community support for the Front a town employee and asked the to build a law enforcement part- swer to that question (FYI-VDOT caliber of police service through Royal Police Department and the homeowner to point out prop- nership. Thus began the first of officials told county officials on partnership between the depart- Warren County Sheriff’s Office. erty lines. While one scammer three public meetings, this one Feb. 3, NF Bridge work is running ment and the community.” Part- For information on this and other distracts the homeowner out- chaired by Interim town Police ahead of schedule, meaning the nership describes the relationship community awareness programs, side, a second individual enters Chief Richard H. Furr, designed project could be completed prior between the community and (in contact Janice Hart at 540-631- the home and steals what he/she to bring public awareness to to the Sept. 1, 2009 target date). this endeavor) law enforcement 2763 or to receive information can. Furr cautioned residents to citizens about FRPD programs, These FRPD public commu- and is central to policing as it by email on crime prevention keep cars and homes locked to initiatives, concerns, budgetary nity meetings are a new initiative recognizes the basic understand- topics, opportunities to part- discourage opportunistic crime. issues, and community involve- begun by Furr and department ing that the enforcement of law ner with the Police Department Another precaution homeowners ment efforts. Community Relations Special- cannot be undertaken alone. The and local activities such as press can take, says Furr, is to advise the However, that this community ist Janice Hart. Hart is a Certi- programs outlined such as Busi- releases send your name and FRPD if your home will be unoc- – at least the targeted “North” fied Crime Prevention Specialist ness Watch, Community Aware- email address to her attention at cupied. Residents can complete Patrol Sector (north of 6th Street) for the Town of Front Royal. For ness, Citizens’ Advisory Board, the FRPD, 24 West Main Street, a form at the police department – is confused about the commu- some time, the town’s 9.5 square Citizens Police Academy, Volun- Front Royal, VA 22630. and the patrol sector for your nity policing concept and their miles have been divided into three teers in Police Services, and the Furr emphasized that with the area will be notified, resulting in role in it was illustrated by a lack patrol sectors, North, South, and Neighborhood Watch Program, “decline in economy comes an additional police awareness. of substantial questions or input Middle, with each patrolman as- to name just a few, are among increase in crime.” He reminded See Police, 24 on the effectiveness and methods signed to a sector. This enables fa- the services provided to partner residents of the need for commu- Sometimes the truly rewarding things in life are free.

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www.theriver953online.com Page 24 • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009

“It’s something we like to do every once in awhile to give back to the community.” – musi- Community cian Hank Gorecki on entertaining some new friends

‘Hank & Friends’ bond with fans at Blue Ridge Ops Local musicians ‘walk the line’ for the Blue Ridge Opportunities crew

By Roger Bianchini start as Hank & Friends launched the Moose, Chapter 1194, at the Warren County Report into the first of two sets of coun- John Marshall Highway Moose try and country & western tinged Headquarters. Manley will sign A common notion to share good old American rock & autographs and greet attendees some fun led to a little music, roll. “Straight from the Heart’s” at 7 p.m. His speech is scheduled dancing and plain old appre- John Landis soulful rendition of to begin at 7:30 p.m. Cost is $5 to ciative listening on a crisp, late George Jones stirred the heart- members and $8 to non-mem- January afternoon at Blue Ridge broken country boy in even cyni- bers. Opportunities headquarters on cal, city-bred reporters. And on March 1, at 1 p.m. the Water Street in Front Royal. Other upcoming events with Moose Lodge will also host a Spa- “We just need to have a party,” ties to Blue Ridge Ops include ghetti Dinner Fundraiser for Blue one staffer said of what was chris- a Pancake Dinner on Feb. 24, Ridge Ops at 1 p.m. Seven dollars tened “The2 009 New Beginnings hosted by Nineveh Presbyterian will earn you all the spaghetti you Party.” Church at the Blue Ridge Ops can eat to help defer the costs for “It’s something we like to do building at 37 Water Street. That electrical repairs from an electri- Police, from 23 every once in awhile to give back event will run from 5 p.m. to 7 cal fire at the Blue Ridge Ops Wa- to the community,” local musi- p.m. with all donations going to ter Street building. Furr presented a Power Point presentation of the FRPD mission cian Hank Gorecki said of what Blue Ridge Opportunities. So get out have a good meal, and vision statement, organizational structure including adminis- I know personally to be at least The Blue Ridge Ops staff also lend some friends a helping hand tration, patrol, investigations, and community relations to the 15 the second after lunch concert noted an upcoming motivational – sorry you missed Hank & the attendees, and the nine officers present. Included among those “Hank & Friends” have done for speech by former Washington boys, maybe next time – it was representing FRPD were Operations Captain Mark Werner, Drug the dedicated staff and -mem Redskin defensive end Dexter a heck of a show … lunch wasn’t Task Force Unit Kevin Coffman, Investigator Sergeant Ryman, and bership of the non-profit Blue Manley on Feb. 13. That event will bad either. Traffic Enforcement Sgt. Donald Orye. Furr addressed an oft-heard Ridge Opportunities work force. be sponsored by The Women of complaint on Oyre’s role in law enforcement, noting the priority of Included among Hank on guitar the Traffic Enforcement Officer is “enforcing traffic law compliance, and vocals, were friends John and not the issuance of traffic tickets.” Landis, vocals and guitar, Dew- FRPD currently has 37 law enforcement officers and 17 full and ey Vaughan, vocals and guitar part-time civilian personnel. One community-partnering program, (looks like Moby Grape up front Volunteers in Police Services (VIPS), has served as support for offi- with singer-guitarists), George cers in the performance of their duties. Another such partnering ef- Ronetz, percussion, Mike Saba- fort is the Ride Along Program. Through it citizens are encouraged tino, guitar, Nick Pizzola, drums, to sign up and ride along with an officer to experience first hand the Marty Jacobs, percussion, and role and experience of officers in the community. Jim “Chigger” Scott on bass. The next FRPD Community Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, The musicians all said they look Feb. 5, at 7:00 p.m., and will focus on the South Sector residents and forward to the Blue Ridge Op- businesses south of Main Street. The third Community Meeting is portunities show because the scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 19, and will cover the Middle Sector venue provides an attentive and residents and businesses between Main Street and 6th Street. All appreciative audience. That ap- meetings are held at the WCGC. preciation was evident from the Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 25

“It’s always important, but even more now … because the economy has been really bad. And it has affected a lot of people and budgets are a lot tighter - our budgets are certainly tighter.” - Blue Ridge Education Center Director Carol Olson on importance of private sector donations Community

Blue Ridge Education Center hosts annual fundraiser Crossing cultural and learning barriers with a Middle Eastern twist

At photographer’s urging, Blue Ridge Educational Center Director Carol Olson nabs Front Royal Town Manager Mike Graham trying to make off with some Middle Eastern grub - I’d have insisted on his arrest if I hadn’t eaten more than he was taking home as a care package.

By Roger Bianchini pared by Cute’s Mobile Catering, Warren County Report but for the stage show featuring cultural ambassadors from sev- The evening’s entertainers backstage with apprentice Lydia Lancie, age 7, at On Saturday, Jan. 31, Front Roy- eral area belly dancing schools, center front. Lydia performed with her older sister, Stephanie Ritenbaugh, far al’s Blue Ridge Educational Cen- including Bealladonna Amaya right. ter held it annual fundraising din- Dances (540 636-4563); Mira- ner, silent auction and stage show mar’s Danse Arabesque (e-mail, Ridge Education Center’s variety Learning Potential Programs” are the Blue Ridge Education Center at Calvary Episcopal Church. [email protected]); of programs for special needs “Help with Homeschooling,” “Af- could offer you or your family call The Middle Eastern theme of the and Shahar (www.shahar.us). students at all levels makes this ter-School Tutoring,” Diplomas 540 631-9503 or visit the school’s event has made it one of the most But in addition to the cultural one of the great local fundraising Programs and GED Tutoring.” website at www.blueridgeeduca- sought-after press passes on the liasioning at a time such liaison- efforts of the year. And this year, For more information on what tion.org local scene, not only because of ing is certainly needed, the op- perhaps more than usual, the pri- the excellent ethnic food pre- portunity to help support Blue vate sector donations are more crucial to the school. “It’s always important, but even more now … because the econ- omy has been really bad,” Blue Ridge Education Center Director Carol Olson says. “And it has af- fected a lot of people and budgets are a lot tighter - our budgets are certainly tighter. We have mul- tiple funding sources that are absolutely crucial because if we were dependent on any one thing we would have real, real prob- lems. We have grants, we partner extensively with Warren County Schools, there are tuitions and we are a United Way agency.” More pictures at www.warrencountyreport.com Olson said some of those fund- ing sources are experiencing cut- back due to the tight economy. Former BR Ed Center student Travis Davis discusses Other funding threats come from silent auction run up on some of his art works on anticipated cutbacks in grants for display with Cathy Wood. Keeping with the evening’s home-schooled and after-school Mike Hirsch with daughters Delainey and Raleigh and theme, the work at right is of the Iranian capital tutoring sources. their auction items, Ostrich feathers and dolly boo- building - darn, I got out bid for it. Among Blue Ridge’s “Unlocking ties. Page 26 • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009

Campers will meet staff members of the Blue Ridge Wildlife Center and safely interact Community with certain educational animals that cannot be rehabilitated for release back into the wild.

Local nature camp accepting students for summer sessions

By Doug Pifer on grade appropriate environ- Overnight Stays)July 27th - July mental topics, and takes place 31st, 2009 Camp RiverRidge, a summer between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm 4. Adventure Camp: Rising 9th - nature program for kids, plans its Monday through Friday. 12th Grade: (Three days of back- most exciting year yet, according packing and two days of canoeing to Chris Packert, Camp Direc- Camp Schedule for 2009 in a week-long overnight adven- tor. Week-long openings are now ture) July 20th - July 24th, 2009 available for students in second 1. Shenandoah Scouts: Rising 2nd through twelfth grade for the - 3rd Grade: August 10th - 14th, Parents can register at the web- 2009 summer season, but are fill- 2009 (No Overnight Stays) site www.riverridgefoundation. ing up fast. 2. Appalachian Adventurers: Ris- org and either pay online or by transported to and from camp ditional fee. Visit the website for Campers will explore the moun- ing 4th - 5th Grade: (One Over- mail to RiverRidge Foundation, in a 15 passenger van for an ad- pricing and other details. tain ridge of the Northern Vir- night Stay) August 3rd - August 156 Twin Oaks Drive, Bentonville, ginia Lions Youth Camp, the 980 7th, 2009 VA 22610. Students may choose acre river valley of the Burwell 3. Massanutten Mountaineers: to be picked up and dropped off Van-Lennep Land Trust, Spout Rising 6th - 8th Grade: (Two by their parents each day, or be Run creek, and the Shenandoah

River. Besides scavenger hunts, 205 East Main Street Front Royal 540-635-5297 games and other traditional camp USE YOUR TAX RETURN TO PUT Open Monday through Saturday at 11AM activities, campers will be invit- YOURSELF INTO A QUALITY Serving Lunch, Dinner and Live Entertainment ed to a Star Party hosted by the Shenandoah Astronomical Soci- CAR, TRUCK, VAN or SUV with Daily Lunch Specials served fast at ety. They will meet staff members a price you can afford of the Blue Ridge Wildlife Center Join us for Valentine’s Day… GUARANTEED Live Music and Dinner Specials! and safely interact with certain educational animals that cannot Front Royal’s be rehabilitated for release back FINANCING! Favorite Music Venue into the wild. Campers will learn to use such devices as a micro- • DOWN PAYMENTS STARTING AS LOW AS $500.00!! Live Music SCHEDULE Friday 2/6: Shortness of Breath Friday 2/13: Eye Soar scope, a GPS unit, topographic • NO CREDIT CHECK!! & THE OPPORTUNITY TO ESTABLISH or RE-ESTABLISH CREDIT!! Saturday 2/7: Amanda Wilkins Band Sat 2/14: Mark Clay & Jimmy Polino and geologic maps, a sling psy- • EASY TERMS – WEEKLY or BI-WEEKLY Monday 2/9: Dewey & Lenny Monday 2/16: Dave Elliott chrometer, a clinometer. They will PAYMENT PLANS AVAILABLE!! Tuesday 2/10: Travelin’ Jack Tuesday 2/17: Ralph Fortune also learn to identify many plants • VEHICLES THAT COME WITH A 3Month/3000 Wednesday 2/11: Ralph Fortune Wednesday 2/18: John Landes Thursday 2/12: Church St. Project Thursday: Vaughan Brothers and animals that inhabit the area, Mile POWER TRAIN WARRANTY and will listen to guest speakers such as members of the Northern ON THE ROAD AGAIN AUTO SALES & FINANCE FREE WIRELESS!

Shenandoah Valley Audubon So- www.ontheroadagain1.com • 540-636-3112 Visit our websites for up to date LSL news: ciety and local scientists. http://www.zen2go.net Summer camps are divided into Or www.myspace.com/luckystarlounge Owners Dirk & Cindy Essert WANT TO GET YOU ON THE ROAD AGAIN! four sessions according to grade SERVING FRONT ROYAL & THE SURROUNDING AREAS FOR 10+ YEARS! level. Each week program focuses Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 27

“The coming year will present all levels of government with financial challenges. We are … considering re- ductions in the current budget to address anticipated revenue reductions as well as going into the FY2009- 2010 budget process with the knowledge that additional cuts from the State, particularly in education, are Warren County forthcoming.” – County Administrator Doug Stanley

Stanley addresses county accomplishments, challenges Across the board budget cuts anticipated in tightening economy 340/522 corridor. The facility has down the hatches and preparing provided the Front Royal-Warren “The coming year will present for what comes.” County community with a full all levels of government with fi- Stanley pointed to $2.1 million service lodging facility that ex- nancial challenges. We are pre- in cuts to the existing fiscal year pands our ability to attract tour- pared to meet this challenge 2009 county budget to accom- ists and visitors off the Interstate head on and will be considering modate revenue shortfalls. – “So and off Skyline Drive. I feel com- reductions in the current budget we’ve got to be flexible to adjust fortable that the actions that Blue to address anticipated revenue as needed to the financial situa- Ridge Shadows have taken will al- reductions as well as going into tion. We try to budget conserva- low them to continue to operate the FY2009-2010 budget process tively and not anticipate growth and stay open to the public while with the knowledge that addi- [revenues], including commercial they restructure and continue to tional cuts from the State, par- in the corridor. market the property. ticularly in education, are forth- “And certainly too, you’ve got “As far as concerns in the cor- coming. to look at it from the standpoint ridor in general, first realize that “Conservative budgeting in the that is probably one of the most Warren County Administrator Doug Stanley we have been conservative in our past years will provide some cush- opportune bidding environments estimating of revenue to date for ion, but the County will be faced that we’ve been in. I just heard By Roger Bianchini climate, as well as a review of the the corridor. The largest compo- with the challenge of maintain- last week that Loudoun County Warren County Report accomplishments of 2008. nents of the new revenue include ing the progress we have made had a high school out for bid and Sales Tax and Meals Tax revenue. in recent years in upgrading our the estimate was it would cost As we prepared for the New BRS & corridor revenue Sales Tax revenues through No- facilities. The County commits about $90 million and it came Year and our “Review of 2008” vember 30th total $1,225,706 out to being fiscally responsible dur- back around $60 million. So, it’s tab that began our fourth year “The news of Blue Ridge Shad- of a budget of $3.2 million. They ing these tough economic times a good bidding environment if of publication, we asked War- ows recent filing for Chapter 11 are lagging slightly behind our and will continue to plan for the you’re looking at the long run.” ren County Administrator Doug Bankruptcy was not a complete budget projections, but because future of our community.” Stanley about potential impacts shock. We have known that the the receipts lag a couple months “We are certainly anticipating Liaison revisited on the county of the recently an- facility has been for sale and have we have not hit the holiday sea- that this slowdown will continue nounced Blue Ridge Shadows talked with interested parties son, which typically sees the larg- through 2009. What we’ve done We asked Stanley for the county Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing. His about the property. est receipts. as far as approaching the bud- perspective on the upcoming (at response led to a further inquiry “The facility (hotel and confer- “The [county] Meals Tax rev- get for next year (July 1, 2009 to the time) reinstitution of town- into the county’s existing budget ence facility and golf course) is an enue is the one component that June 30, 2010) is do what we can county liaison meetings after a and the challenges of the coming important part of our economic is tied directly to our funding to maintain our current level of nearly two-year hiatus. Those year in a downturned economic development efforts for the Route formula for Phase I and Phase II service but not add any services. meetings were mutually called off of our School Capital Improve- We’ve told our employees not to during a time of extreme tension ments Plan. For the [fiscal] year anticipate any raises in net year’s between the county’s two major we had budgeted an anticipated budget. We’re kind of battening municipal governments over wa- $500,000 in meals tax revenue and through November 30th (5 Del. Clifford L. “Clay” Athey, Jr. out of 12 months) we had collect- ed $262,674, which is well ahead 18th District House of Delegates of projection. Serving Fauquier, Frederick, and Warren County “Because of conservative bud- geting, we are not as dependent on revenue from the shopping centers and the potential revenue of other approved developments in the corridor. The Board of Su- pervisors and School Board are moving forward with Part 1 of The last small (.84 acre) lot available fronting the Phase II of the School CIP (Capi- west side of route 522/340 in the master planned tal Improvements Plan) – the renovation of the former Warren commercial district of North Warren County, 1/4 County High School. Given the mile north of Country Club Rd. and the shopping current construction market we are hoping that the project will centers anchored by Wal-Mart, Target, and Lowes. see a very competitive bidding Stacey & I thank you for the opportunity to serve. Town water already on site. Build now or rent out process and that the project will come in well under preliminary If I can be of any help, please contact me at (540) 635-7917, the 3BR, 1BA house and develop later. Listed at estimates. In addition, the proj- in Richmond at: (804) 698-1018, $650K, this property won’t last long. ect has the ability to provide a by E-Mail at: [email protected], boost for the local economy.” or by mail at: PO Box 406, Room 510 Call Chris Turner at (540) 305-4958 Richmond, VA 23218 Challenges of 2009 Page 28 • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009 Dominion Health and Fitness Warren County 9816 Winchester Road • Front Royal

ter and growth issues. After asking the county ad- summer 2009. The building is al- “I think the board is certainly ministrator to field questions on most three times larger than the looking forward to restarting the some tough topics on upcoming current facility and will offer an liaison committee and the formal challenges, we allowed him some expanded children’s section. process of discussion of issues of time for a review of recent ac- • Replacement of the Linden mutual interest. And I think that’s complishments from the county Compactor Site: The new com- what liaison was always meant to perspective. pactor site will be completed in be – issues come up in the daily “The past year has been a busy the next 30 days (it opened Jan. 8) function of the town and county one. Over the course of that year and will provide safer and more government that impact the oth- Warren County has been able to convenient access to residents. Stressed Out? Energize your life this Winter at Dominion er. And liaison gives the oppor- accomplish a number of tasks in- • Establishment of a County tunity for those items to be dis- cluding: Grant Program: The hiring of Health and Fitness • Membership as low as $7.50 week! cussed. Then you can take them Susan Musante as our part-time Free Child Care! Free Orientation! back to the respective bodies for • Financing for the next phase of Grants Coordinator has allowed Fitness for the entire family! formal consideration.” the School Capital Improvement the County to become much We asked Stanley if he viewed Plan: renovation of the former more proactive in seeking State the required mutual approval of Warren County High School into and Federal grant opportunities all submitted agenda items as a a modern middle school facility which will pay dividends down (540) 636-2820 possible roadblock to substantive • Parks and Recreation system the road through the return of discussion on some of the most improvements, including up- tax dollars to benefit our -com important issues of mutual inter- grading of parks to new facility munity. est. standards, installation of walking • County Fire and Rescue Study: Mountain Mystic “The way [the format] is word- trail at Burrell Brooks Park, work The Board approved a third-par- ed now that’s always a possibility. and fundraising on the new skate ty review of our entire fire and Trading Company But I like to look at it, as the glass park and work on a master plan rescue system including paid staff is half full, rather than half emp- for the development of the Fish- and volunteer fire companies: ty. So while we may not be able net Property which the County The Study, which is near comple- to discuss every issue, there is the will take ownership of in early tion, will help guide County Fire opportunity to discuss some of 2009. and Rescue planning and funding the issues that we’re both dealing • Commencement of construc- in future years to ensure that our with.” tion of the new Samuels Public citizens are receiving adequate Library: funded with cash over a emergency services coverage and Accomplishments of 2008 3-year period. The new modern that our stations are adequately facility is projected to be open in staffed and equipped.”

Donald Francis Britton Marilyn Herrera Britton, daughter Maggie Mae Britton, and sister Doris Britton Woodward. Several aunts, niec- Offering a wide variety of sterling silver and gemstone jewelry, chimes, rock and min- es, nephews, sisters and brothers-in-law, and dear friends eral specimens, books, cards, journals, relaxing and meditative music, tapestries, candles, incense, fragrance and essentials oils, stickers, antique jade carvings, and also survive him. so many more one of a kind items! His wife would like to thank the staffs of the UVA Medical Center, Blue Ridge Hospice, Shenandoah Area Agency 215-B South Street • Front Royal • 635-6318 for the Aging, Valley Home Care and Maddox Funeral Open everyday from 10-6, except Sunday from 12-5 and closed on Wednesdays Home for their exceptional care and compassion. A sin- cere thanks and gratitude to his aunt Jo Shaffer, my fam- ily, friends John and Leanne Bryant, Connie Dailey and others who opened their hearts with love, support, cards, time, food, money, and especially their thoughts and prayers. Very special thanks also to Larry Bryant who lives in the true pattern of Christ. He attended elementary and high school in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia and Front Royal and graduated from Mas- sanutten Military Academy. He received his BA in His- • ACT NOW FHA RATES AS LOW AS 5% for qualified borrowers tory from Eastern New Mexico University, his MA in Public • If you recently purchased a home with an FHA Loan at 6% or higher, call Policy from University of New Mexico, and went on to now for info. on our fast, easy, streamlined process. complete all the requirements for his Ph.D., except for his dissertation, in Political Science from the University of Find out your monthly savings potential! New Mexico. He worked at various government depart- ments for the State of New Mexico that utilized his skills • Purchase Loans to 100% in public policy. He also taught classes at the University of New Mexico. Donald was also an advocate for those who • FHA and VA Loans didn’t have a voice to speak for themselves; he served as a social worker for Child Protective Services and also as • No Money Down Programs Donald Francis Britton passed away at the age of 63, on a labor union steward, who gladly took risks to his career • Refinance to fight for the rights of workingmen and women. After Contact Raymond or Christi Heflin January 25, 2009 at home in the loving arms of his wife. Va. License #MB-1823 According to his wishes, cremation has taken place and his retirement, Donald left his beloved New Mexico and there will be no visitation or service. returned to his hometown of Front Royal where he could Please call (540) 635-0404 He was pre-deceased by his parents Gaylord Francis often be seen around town walking his two dogs Rita and Or visit us at 505 S. Royal Ave. • Front Royal, VA Britton and Mae Ruth Britton and is survived by his wife Mariah. He will truly be missed. Rates subject to market conditions and availability Black & White

Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 29

“It is a big challenge because we are in uncharted waters. It’s hard to anticipate what to do when no one really knows how bad it’s going to be.” – Front Royal Town Manager J. Front Royal Michael Graham on the coming budget cycle

Town faces reduced revenues in slowing economy 2009 will be time of challenge as budget cycles begin for FY 2010 By Roger Bianchini means there’ll be less money down’s direct impacts on the Warren County Report coming back to the cities and town’s revenue stream, the mayor towns as far as sales taxes … So I said, “We, right now, are seeing a In preparing our “Review/Pre- think our biggest challenge is go- small change [down] in our meals view” of 2008-2009 in Warren ing to be the [state] financial end tax and lodging tax … We’re also County and the Town of Front of our budget. Right now it ap- having difficulty in collecting our Royal, we asked local officials pears we’re going to be cut a cer- bills – electrical bills, water bills of both the county’s municipal tain percentage of our 599, which – people just cannot afford it. So, governments how they are ap- is part of the money that comes it’s taking us longer to get money proaching what is forecast to in for our police department. back from our customers to cover be an economically trying time Also, we may be cut a substan- our bills.” across Virginia and the nation. tial amount in our street funding. The mayor said the town un- Front Royal Mayor Eugene Right now we get a million and a derstands that people are simply Tewalt began by reviewing state half dollars and there is talk that strapped financially right now. forecasts of cutbacks to localities funding may be cut as much as “We’re trying to work any way before moving on to the direct 35 percent. That’s going to take possible to allow payments to impacts on the town’s budget. a big toll on the maintenance of collect those funds – we’re trying “Talking to Governor Kaine our streets and thoroughfares. to do that with all our customers about a month ago, he said the We don’t know those numbers that need some flexibility in that state tax [revenue] was down at for sure yet but it looks very likely regard. least 5 percent at that time and they’ll be significant.” “We’re also having a slowdown it could be more by now, which As for the economic slow- in collecting real estate taxes. Because with foreclosures, the way it’s set up now, it could be as much as two, maybe three years or until [a property] is sold be- fore we get any real estate tax on Front Royal Mayor Eugene Tewalt and council clerk a foreclosure account. Jennifer Berry at recent Front Royal Town Coun- “So, we’re having trouble on the cil work session. Town staff and officials, like their one end of collecting, and also county counterparts, are bracing for tight economic on the other end because of the times. economy being slow, all our rev- enues are down as far as our own tax revenue,” Tewalt said. some of the services in the future observed. What could these revenue re- that we have become very com- Mayor Tewalt said like the ductions mean to the average fortable with.” Graham pointed to county (see related story), the town citizen? reduced funding for horticulture, town is facing pay freezes to its cutbacks in hours at the Visitor’s employees. “We are in the same Service cuts? Center, the Finance Department, boat – we don’t know yet, we and the mulch farm, as well as haven’t started on our budget (as “We hope we’re not going to see evening cutbacks in the number of early January) but it appears as a resultant reduction in services, of police cars, if not officers on of now that there probably will we hope to be able to maintain our the road. “So you’re going to see not be any pay raises this year.” Mountain Fence services to the town’s citizens. If us focusing on efficiency issues it comes to that point, we’ll look like that more and more and un- Uncharted waters We Install Fences Year Round! at it very closely and see what we fortunately it might not be real can do to minimize the impact comfortable,” the town manager “It is a big challenge because we of those revenue changes on our Call today • Wood citizens,” the mayor said. for a FREE “But fortunately the town over Loving, local Christian estimate in the years has been very frugal,” • Vinyl Town Manager Michael Gra- couple seeks private Northern ham added of the town’s ability adoption of infant. VA or • Aluminum to cope with the trying economy. Will provide for all Shenandoah “We try to maintain a minimum of 12 to 15 percent [in the Gener- legal expenses. Call Valley • Chain Link al Fund surplus] and we also have at least three to four month’s cash us toll free and let’s reserves to be able to handle any talk some more. cash flow problem. So, I’m not re- Call: 540-635-9981 or ally concerned about a relatively short-term situation as much as 703-606-5327 if [something] happens to effect (866) 317-8054 Black & White

Page 30 • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009

“We hope we’re not going to see a resultant reduction in services, we hope to be able to maintain our ser- vices to the town’s citizens. If it comes to that point, we’ll look at it very closely and see what we can do to Front Royal minimize the impact of those revenue changes on our citizens.” – Front Royal Mayor Eugene Tewalt

are in uncharted waters,” the town tucked away to finish that project so strong is because consumers intersection and the completion enue this year; we had Luray to manager observed. “It’s hard to on Cherrydale, which will be used continued to spend even though of the walking trail along that Criser; we had Westminster to anticipate what to do when no one to come in and repave the roads. manufacturing was going out road.” John Marshall to Criser; and we really knows how bad it’s going to And Royal Village has already and everything else was going Graham explained that the had Water Street and Commerce. be. And the only thing we’ve been started with the new storm drain down. For some reason we [as rather stark appearance that re- So we’ve made it safer and more very fortunate in, is that coming system and sidewalks and other consumers] just kept spending sulted from the removal of wild walkable for the community.” from my background of being in types of things which money has and spending and spending. Now shrubbery along that walking a depressed market in the mar- been put away for that project. So for the first time I’m seeing that trail is a merely a transition to a Power ket I was in [in the private sec- even if things get tight I think the people in the general public are more orderly planted buffer that tor] where we had to make cuts town will be in a position to fin- beginning to not spend. So, we’re is planned along John Marshall “Some of our other staff and in operational processes in order ish those projects, which are big really in it – in a tight spot.” Highway just east of Jamestown council accomplishments for the to do business, that’s kind of my projects – it’ll take at least a year With troubling future sce- Road. “We got rid of a lot of those year include the renegotiated mindset. And since I walked in to finish Royal Village. So, hope- narios behind us, we asked the old scrubby trees around there power contract. The highlight of two years ago, we have been do- fully by the time that money runs town manager to summarize the and we have a donation from this year was that we were able to ing that steadily … Maybe some out the state will be back on track mayor’s “State of the Town” list of Lowe’s of $20,000 and two pri- actually buy into clean coal burn- municipalities didn’t have to do and we’ll be able to get back in ac- accomplishments. He began with vate donations adding another ing facilities …” – interrupted it but we were doing it anyway tion again.” infrastructure improvements. $10,000, which will allow us to when the interviewer pointed out to try and get better operational put new plantings in there – but “Clean Coal” technology is esti- efficiencies. In anticipation of the Corridor question marks 2008 accomplishments: I can’t claim that for this year mated to be a decade away, Gra- [economic] downturn, we were Roads, ambiance & rules yet. But it will be new trees and ham rephrased – “cleaner coal, in able to eliminate 7-1/2 percent “So to your question, how do you shrubs (bring me a shrubbery – a addition to hydro power commit- or $2.2 million out of this year’s plan [for tight economies] – I can “Basically our accomplishments nice one, please) that will be done ment, all part of the AMP-Ohio budget and it’s certainly helped tell you right now we have honed for 2008 are a variety of things with those private donations.” contract. So, we’re starting to us in not being in such a critical down every operation within the ranging from all sorts of road Graham also singled out im- build up our base power supply” position right now. And we’re town. We’re not lean, but we’re improvements to beautification provements to 14th Street at its at reduced costs, Graham noted. very fortunate to date – knock not fat … That’s why it’s so criti- to code enforcement,” Graham intersection with North Royal “Also we finished our construc- on wood – that we’re still hit- cal that we maintain the revenue began the more upbeat portion Avenue and the town’s alleyways. tion on the new electrical substa- ting about 48 percent of our rev- coming from the 522 Corridor,” of our conversation. “And this is “One of the other improve- tion on Shenandoah Shores Road. enue projections. And real estate Graham said of another wild card really tied back into our original ments we’re very happy with is That gives us the ability to handle taxes seem to be holding up as in the town’s economic future. “If survey that we did back in 2007, the improvement at the inter- growth in that area if and when it projected. I’m getting word from we lost the revenue out on the which captured the three top section of 14th Street. That was comes. We finished construction Richmond that they will probably 522 Corridor, to make that back it areas in which citizens wanted a very dangerous area that had on the new water treatment plant, only cut the 599 five or six -per would probably have to be a 6 or to see us improve. Number one that sharp turn making a right off which we’ll be dedicating next cent. So, that is a big relief if that 7 percent increase on real estate was beautification of the town, Royal Avenue. We opened up that month. And we have completed holds. That means we’ll only lose just to make that up … We have taking pride in our community; intersection. We placed a new installation of the back-up gen- about $20,000 or $30,000 versus built our budgets based on that second was infrastructure im- sidewalk, a crossing lane there erator for the Royal Water Pump- $400,000, which I think we can revenue from out there, which is provements, roads; and the third that just allows it to be much saf- ing Station. What that means is adjust to.” as we said is between $600,000 was code enforcement. So for the er going into that intersection. that in our power strategy we are Graham agreed towns are gen- and $700,000 [in annual meals last two years we really have been “We also put in a program for building the capacity to be able to erally better positioned to handle tax revenue].” focusing in on those areas. And our alleyways. It seems the al- bring on line some of these back- state budget shortfalls than coun- Graham said the legal dispute 2008 really resulted in probably leyways in town were really bad up generators during peak times ties are. over the corridor meals tax fee more movement in those areas and so we focused a lot of effort to be able to defer some of these “We are dramatically less de- presents an additional set of chal- than ever before. on resurfacing alleyways along congestion charges. So, slowly but pendent on [the state] – but lenges in already troubling eco- “One of the biggest issues was Royal and Virginia and Royal and surely we’re building the strat- here are two or three areas we’re nomic times. that the community felt we didn’t Warren.” egy of having a variety of these dependent on. Number one of have any dedication to code en- Graham also lauded what has around town both as an emer- course is we get a portion of the Economic question marks forcement – there were a lot of a bone of contention for some gency backup, but also to be able sales tax from the state and that is people in violation, everything (ta dum, ta dum – why are you to back it up to run during peak down by five percent – but we’re “I will tell you of all my experi- from dilapidated cars to just not looking at me?) – 24-hour a day hours to save our citizens money. not truly dependent on it, though ence of dealing with companies following the rules impacting how reduced speed limits in some ar- And in reality what it means is if every little bit helps. in trouble and bringing them the town looked. Fortunately we eas. for some reason the power goes “And as the mayor said, the big- back to profitability, this is prob- did find a great code enforcement “Part of the code enforcement out we can turn on that generator gest question mark we have this ably one of the more challenging officer [recently retired FRPD was also the speed reduction and continue to pump water, so year is that we receive between situations – because I think num- Inv. Richard Kurzenknabe]. And along John Marshall Highway people aren’t without power and $1.3 and $1.5 million from the ber one, we are all facing a new within the first six months com- – that kind of ties into code en- water.” state for road maintenance. That’s economy which none of us really ing into last year they had over forcement and safety within the Graham also lauded the town’s part of the agreement we have knows how to react to. Number 477 calls and cleared 362. That’s town. As far as safety within the achievement of being designated with them. And we don’t know two, from a municipality stand- probably more than we had all town we really accomplished a “Green Government” within how exactly how hard that’s go- point we don’t know the effect the previous year and we did that several things: we increased the the Commonwealth. “We were ing to be hit. The biggest impact the state [budget] is going to in the first six months because we night lighting on Cloud Street one of 26 communities certified from that is we just won’t be able have on us … Number three, we turned up the focus on these par- and Shenandoah Shores Road as a Green Government by VML to do as many road projects as we are impacted by [reduced] real ticular areas … and Luray Avenue to the river. (Virginia Municipal League). This have in the past. Now luckily for estate [tax revenue] and lack of “Then we were very aggressive “As far as beautification we is quite a compliment because us, we have put away money that meals taxes and everything else. this year with a variety of differ- were very active also by creating I think there’s 150 or 160 total wasn’t spent on the Royal Village We don’t know how deep this is ent road projects, number one new sidewalks from Main Street municipalities [in Virginia], 56 of Project. And we just completed going to go if the consumer stops being the Jamestown-John Mar- and Commerce Avenue, new bike them applied for this certification the Cherrydale Project with all spending because you know the shall intersection. That was tying trails (not to mention the Luray and we were one of the 26 com- the curb and guttering. And we last three or four years the only in to what we started the year Avenue Boat Landing Park. We munities that were granted the have money already put in and reason the economy has stayed before that with the Westminster got Commerce and Royal Av- designation.” Black & White

Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 31

“I don’t think this is appropriate. We already passed the resolution – it’s in the public record already. I don’t see any purpose to it.” – Supervisor Linda Glavis on town’s request Corridor lawsuit for county letter of support on corridor suit

County declines letter of support on corridor suit Town wanted ‘strong’ letter proclaiming unity sent to restaurant attorney

By Roger Bianchini TGIFridays recently filed a joint discussion. At the work session fees tied to town central water – what does this accomplish?” Warren County Report suit in Warren County Circuit several supervisors continued an and sewer contracts to the coun- Even the original resolution of Court challenging the meals tax- ongoing debate on the potential ty businesses. Carter and Traczyk support’s staunchest supporter, Following a Feb. 3 work session based fee that accounts for the implications of a Resolution of voted against the resolution due White concurred. “I suggest we discussion, the Warren County bulk of what has been as high as Support of the Corridor Agree- to the inclusion of the line on le- do nothing the judge doesn’t tell Board of Supervisors declined $12,300 of monthly restaurant fee ment passed 3-2 last June. gal support. us to do,” he said, adding that he to authorize County Attorney and water/sewer bills of slightly Tony Carter reiterated his and Glenn White continued to in- and his family were boycotting Blair Mitchell to send 522 Corri- over $13,000. Richard Traczyk’s concern that a sist the legal support phrase does the three national chain restau- dor restaurants attorney William “I haven’t changed my mind on line in that June resolution stat- not commit the county to any rants that have brought the suit. “Sandy” Rowe a letter expressing a position of support on this. I ing “the Warren County Board financial obligation for any legal When it was observed such a additional support of the Town think it’s important to the town of Supervisors will support the support, or even legal man-hours boycott could be a double-edged of Front Royal on litigation sur- to keep this in place, but I have Town of Front Royal, including from the county attorney’s office sword, cutting into the county’s rounding the meals tax aspect of reservations on a money com- legal support” were a suit to be without additional votes of ap- own meals tax revenues from the town corridor PILOT fees. mitment,” Board Chairman Ar- filed challenging the town’s “Pay- proval by the board. White point- restaurants, which is earmarked Cracker Barrel, Applebee’s and chie Fox said at the outset of the ment in Lieu of Taxes” (PILOT) ed out he had made that point for school capital improvement particularly clear in the record of bond payments, County Admin- the meeting where the resolution istrator Doug Stanley joked that was passed. coming corridor tax revenue re- As far as the new request, Linda ports could tell whether White s of Col Glavis said, “I don’t think this is had launched a damaging finan- ht um appropriate. We already passed cial blow to the county with his ig b the resolution – it’s in the pub- boycott. n u lic record already. I don’t see any The board consensus was to s purpose to it.” stand by the resolution of sup- K County Attorney Blair Mitchell port, but not add any further agreed. “I’ve been wondering too documentation to that support. Saint Valentine’s South Street Grill Valentine’s Day Special! Dinner Dance Sirloin for two • includes sides, Saturday, February 14, 2009 dessert, coffee/soda $24.99 6:30 pm to 10 pm (salad and drinks begin at 6:30 pm, dinner at 7:00 pm) * We now offer pasta, sauted and menu items & daily specials! * Dean’s Steakhouse semi-formal or formalattire Breakfast Special! 2 eggs, home fries, toast & coffee Door Prizes — DJ provided $3.99 2 main entrees — Full buffet —2 desserts Drinks included (alcohol purchased separately) Tickets: $22.50 per person if purchased in advance All cooking done fresh every day! $25.00 per person at the door 424-A South St., Front Royal • 540-636-6654

About 20,000 people read this paper. For Information Contact Tom Sayre (671-1514) or Ray Newcomb (671-1173) An ad this size costs less than 30 bucks. or any brother Knight Is your business benefiting from the area’s best Tickets may be purchased at advertising deal? the St. John the Baptist Catholic Church offi ce or after Mass Let’s talk about it. Church offi ce hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Make checks out to the “Knights of Columbus” 540-305-6347 Come and have a GREAT TIME!! [email protected] Black & White

Page 32 • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009

“If they kill the BPOL will they bury it next to the car tax?” – Councilman (and sit-down Taxes comic) Carson Lauder

Council declines resolution supporting BPOL tax As legislature considers eliminating tax on business profits By Roger Bianchini (BPOL) tax. As was acknowl- year know, that agreement allows Cracker Barrel, Applebee’s and the BPOL tax is unfair by its very Warren County Report edged by Councilman Tom Sayre the town to place a fee based on TGIFriday anchoring the north- nature of taxing business profits during discussion of the resolu- all taxes businesses in the county’s side shopping centers it is cer- after businesses pay other taxes Despite facing the loss of well tion, the BPOL tax has long been northside commercial corridor tainly possible corridor BPOL such as sales and meals on their over a million dollars in annual viewed as a mechanism to keep would pay if they were located revenue could equal if not sur- revenues. tax revenue generated by a local business owners from “fudging” within the town limits on town pass the in-town revenue gener- Despite acknowledging the po- tax on business profits, the Front tax revenue numbers in order to central water and sewer bills. ated by the BPOL tax. licing mechanism of BPOL, Sayre Royal Town Council voted 5-1 on pay less taxes to the municipali- While one aspect (the meals tax Be that as it may, the council said he agreed with Hrbek that Jan. 26 not to approve a Resolu- ties in which they reside. component) of corridor PILOT majority of small businessmen the tax was essentially unfair. tion of support of that tax to be The defeated resolution noted (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) fees sided with Vice Mayor Bret Hrbek A small businessman himself, sent to its state representatives. that the town collected $721,486 is now being challenged in court, in defeating the resolution seek- Lauder’s only comment before Only Carson Lauder voted in in BPOL revenue in Fiscal Year that challenge does not and could ing to maintain the BPOL tax in casting his lone vote in support support of the resolution. 2007. The resolution observed not include the BPOL-based fees. Virginia. In stating his opposition of the resolution deadpanned, “If The resolution would have that it would take a 5-and-a-half That is because the three plaintiff to the resolution, Hrbek reiter- they kill the BPOL will they bury urged 26th District State Sena- cent hike in real estate taxes to restaurants are only challenging ated his long-held opposition to it next to the car tax?” tor Mark Obenshain and 10th compensate for that lost revenue the legality of what they see as the BPOL tax. Hrbek, a local rep- District Representative Clifford alone. The resolution further not- “pass through” taxes on custom- resentative of national financial [email protected] L. “Clay” Athey to oppose House ed the $721,486 revenue figure did ers, not taxes on the businesses advising company Edward Jones Bill 2205 pending before the cur- not include BPOL revenue now themselves, which the BPOL & Associates has maintained that rent session of the Virginia Gen- being generated by the Route 522 clearly is. eral Assembly. HB 2205 would Corridor Agreement. As any of With retail giants Wal-mart, eliminate the Business, Profes- you who have been reading this Lowe’s and Target and nation- sional, and Occupational License paper over the course of the past al chain restaurants including

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As simple as ABC. Affordable – Beautiful - Comfortable 540-305-6347 If you’d like more information, contact us @ [email protected] (540) 636-8400 or [email protected] Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 33

“Mr. Silek called me at my office one day, I had never met Mr. Silek before, and he said to me if I planned to build a duplex on that property I better have $30,000 in legal fees, because he was going to do everything possible to stop me from building on that property.” – Councilman Chris Holloway on his relationship with & more town drama... David Silek

Phone calls lead to bitter dispute in town government Threats or laughs? – Silek challenges council ethics, personal histories

By Roger Bianchini Warren County Report

To celebrate our getting the syn- dicated puzzles and games back, here’s a riddle for you: What do you get when you have a recent anonymous phone call asking about purchasing a living room set you’ve left in your mother’s yard; two 26-year-old anony- mous phoned-in bomb threats, to your high school and the Melt- ing Pot Restaurant; a new duplex built on a long-vacant lot next to the home you grew up in and in which your mother still lives; a closed meeting performance Front Royal Town Councilman Chris Holloway, above, review of a Front Royal Board and town Board of Architectural Review member and of Architectural Review (BAR) attorney David Silek, at right, have squared off at the Restaurant. While an inquiry on the pur- member; and a proposed change center of a nasty dispute over phone calls. During his 2008 campaign for chase of “yard art” furniture may in residential requirements for council, Holloway alluded to mis- have seemed harmless enough, takes he made in his youth and when the caller refused to iden- that same Board of Architectural that complaint was forwarded to West Main and Massie Streets the benefit he had received from tify himself, Silek said he became Review? the state police for investigation. near the boundary with Hollo- adult mentoring at that stage of concerned, especially since the The complaint dates to a Dec. way Construction’s duplex proj- his life to explain his commitment furniture was at his mother’s ANSWER – political business 29 call Silek said he received on ect next door as more harass- to youth recreational activities residence. He traced the caller’s as usual here in River City. his cell phone while eating lunch ment, than physically threatening now. Holloway is currently presi- number to a man who admitted at Elements on South Royal Av- or intimidating. In justifying his dent of the Front Royal Youth to knowing Holloway. Silek said All right, let’s make it perfectly enue on the southside of Front complaint on the call, which Silek Soccer League. when confronted over the phone clear we don’t condone or take Royal. In part, Silek explained said he traced on his phone to an Silek says those incidents of the man admitted to making the lightly adolescent bomb threats the delay in the filing of the com- associate of Holloway’s, Silek has Holloway’s youth reflect a pat- call and said he had gotten Silek’s designed to get one out of school plaint to the fact he was told he raised the issue of two 1983 guilty tern of behavior that is callous, number from Holloway. or inconvenience a local business had to make it in person and he pleas to reduced misdemeanor reckless and justify his current However, in press reports in and its patrons. And neither do had to leave town the following bomb threat charges Holloway, complaint about the furniture the Northern Virginia Daily, that we take lightly the use of political day. Silek might have let the in- now 44, made when he was 18 purchase phone call as harass- man identified as Jani Salvato, position to retaliate against per- cident slide until he perceived on years old. According to the Janu- ment by a public official. He said 33, denied he had been “put up” sonal or political enemies. Nor ongoing pattern of harassment ary 1983 grand jury indictments, he believes pubic officials need to to the call or that it was meant to do we condone the use of law centered out of the Front Royal those calls were to the Warren be held to higher standards of be- be threatening in any way. Ques- enforcement to retaliate against Town Council. County School Board Adminis- havior. tioned following a Feb. 2 council personal or political enemies. “When I found Holloway at a trative Office and the Melting Pot That said we’re still trying to fig- BAR meeting and my name ap- ure out how to approach what has pearing on a closed session agen- grown into an apparently escalat- da, I said enough is enough. I will Your best price on flooring is ing confrontation between Front not be harassed any longer and NOW! Royal BAR member and attorney followed up on my initial report David Silek and two Front Royal to the police. In fact, I went right Town Councilmen, Chris Hollo- up to the chief of police when HARDWOOD • VINYL • LAMINATE way and Shae Parker (and for full they went into closed session to disclosure let me say I know all discuss me,” Silek said of the Jan. CARPET • CERAMIC TILE • MARBLE three of these gentlemen person- 26 council meeting. ally, the latter two professionally Of the notion the call to him as well). was made in fun, Silek pointed GUARANTEED INSTALLATION AVAILABLE Silek, 36, filed a complaint to the similarity in that idea and Ask about no payments/no interest financing for 1 year! against Holloway with the Front the then 18-year-old Holloway’s Royal Town Police on Jan. 27, one 1982 admission to police that he day after he appeared at the Front had made two prank bomb threat Royal Town Council meeting to calls “for laughs.” defend his performance on the Silek characterizes the Dec. 29 BAR as a closed meeting on his phone call inquiry about the pur- BAR membership loomed later Riverton Commons Plaza Front Royal chase of what has been termed a (Right next to Quiznos) that night. Due to FRPD’s rela- “yard art” project in his mother’s tionship to the town government yard near the intersection of www.skylinefloors.com 540-635-9100 Page 34 • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009

Silek denies any connection between the property dispute and his complaint against Holloway. “Well that is not true and it sounds like Mr. Holloway is trying to deflect responsibility. Had Mr. Holloway not given & more town drama... my number to the gentleman he gave it to, we would not be having this discussion would we? Mr. Holloway started this and he is to blame.” work session, Holloway con- me from building on that prop- Not only did Holloway turn property line stating in part, position on council. firmed that scenario. He also said erty,” Holloway says of his initial Silek’s purchase offer down, and “Elect Johnson, Impeach Hollo- “If Parker did not want to en- he believes Silek has purposefully contact with David Silek. Hollo- build on the property, but he re- way.” ter into a contract, he should not set out to embarrass and harass way said he then turned down an ported that despite the brutal While Parker admits to initially have accepted my offer,” Silek re- him out of a personal grudge that offer by Silek to buy the property economic climate one of the du- accepting the contract, he says plied. “He knew what was to be arose after his company bought at 10 percent more than he had plexes, the one closest to the Silek after further consideration and printed on the banner. He could the property on West Main, paid for it. Citing money already property, is in the process of be- discussion with his wife, Lisa, he have said, ‘No David, I cannot do next to Silek’s mother, Suzanne’s spent in permit and tap fees, Hol- ing closed on as of the first week decided to cancel the contract that for you.’ But he did not.” Silek home, for development. loway declined the offer. of February. and refund Silek’s money the fol- said Parker even went as far as to “Mr. Silek called me at my of- If on nothing else, Silek and Silek denies any connection be- lowing day, Jan. 27, two days be- measure the size of the banner fice one day, I had never met Mr. Holloway agree on that point. tween the property dispute and fore the NVD article appeared and it’s lettering. Silek before, and he said to me if I “He turned down a 10-per- his complaint against Holloway. citing his involvement in the sign “Shae was not set up. Shae knew planned to build a duplex on that cent return on the property … a “Well that is not true and it contract. Parker also noted it was what he was doing. If Shae had a property I better have $30,000 in few days after he went to closing sounds like Mr. Holloway is try- he, not Holloway, who put Silek’s problem with my performance on legal fees, because he was going – who would turn down such an ing to deflect responsibility. Had BAR performance review up for the BAR, he should have talked to to do everything possible to stop offer in this economy,” Silek asks. Mr. Holloway not given my num- closed session review at the Jan. me about the same before talking ber to the gentleman he gave it to, 26 meeting. about me to others.” Silek notes we would not be having this dis- Silek says of his encounter with he and Parker attend the same cussion would we? Mr. Holloway Parker earlier that day to discuss church, Calvary Episcopal, and started this and he is to blame. the “Impeach Holloway” sign, cited scripture on proper actions Before Mr. Holloway set out to “Not once while I was standing between believers. ruin that section of Main Street I in front of him did he address “If you have a problems with a had no clue who the man was.” any problem about my perfor- fellow believer you go to that per- mance on the BAR and frankly son to address it, and if there is Three’s company? it suggests to me that he had no no resolution you go to the great- desire to address the matter with er body.” Also involved in the dispute is me present, but rather only talk Unfortunately for Silek in the Councilman Shae Parker. Silek about it behind closed doors.” case of his BAR performance, said he approached Parker, pro- Parker wondered if Silek, whom Parker apparently considered the prietor with his wife in Hanna he knows personally, wasn’t ma- “greater body” the Front Royal Signs LLC, about making a sign neuvering him into an uncomfort- Town Council. to put on a billboard near the able situation when he presented Silek-Holloway West Main Street the sign job to him, knowing his [email protected] Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 35

“It is unconscionable to disenfranchise many with an interest in the district. These people have a vested interest in the Historic District. This proposal would put people in place with no vested interest in the & more town drama... Historic District.” – BAR member David Silek speaking against proposed restrictions BAR membership restrictions defeated By Roger Bianchini of earlier amendments, Tewalt Lauder and Sayre; ing denial of the changes. She vested interest in the Historic Warren County Report asked the councilman if his vote told council that the suggested District. This proposal would put on Holloway’s primary motion of 3. And Hrbek’s motion to strike changes would make it hard to people in place with no vested in- Following much public hear- approval was a “no” vote. the professional qualifications maintain the current five-person terest in the Historic District.” ing debate of a council initiative “If that’s a no vote, yes,” Sayre sentence in the proposed change BAR. Harding said the BAR had to further restrict future Board replied dryly, tying the tally at 3- passed 5-1, with only Parker dis- already been reduced from seven Performance review of Architectural Review (BAR) 3, leading to its defeat. senting; to five due to that restricted pool appointments, Mayor Eugene Noting that Holloway was the of qualified or interested - ap As council heard remarks from Tewalt cast the deciding vote to ordinance change’s maker, David Finally, Holloway’s amended plicants within the county as a the public prior to adjourning to leave well enough alone. Silek theorized that Holloway’s motion that would exclude county whole. he closed session to review Silek’s “I will not vote for that … I think sights were squarely on him. residents who did not own prop- “Why eliminate qualified and performance on the BAR, Silek it is best to leave the ordinance Silek has been highly critical of erty in the Historic District was civic minded individuals?” Linda addressed them on that coming as it is,” Tewalt said in prefacing Holloway’s construction compa- defeated by the somewhat odd Allen asked council. review. his Jan. 26 tie-breaking “no” vote ny’s building of a duplex on an majority of Lauder-Parker-Sayre- Suzanne Wood Silek ques- After noting he had not been defeating Chris Holloway’s thrice East Main Street lot adjacent to Tewalt – that majority seemed tioned Hrbek’s basic opposition invited to the closed session, Silek amended motion to restrict BAR his mother’s home in a primarily odd in that Parker had proposed to the Historic District as too re- challenged the council or town memberships. upscale single-family residential the most restrictive changes then strictive on the property rights of manager, who he singled out by As a result of Tewalt’s siding neighborhood. voted against any change whatso- the individual. Silek, who traced name, to challenge his perfor- with Councilmen Carson Lauder, “I could care less if you’re on the ever. her ancestry back to the town’s mance on the BAR. Silek noted Shae Parker and Tom Sayre, BAR BAR or not,” Holloway later told Holloway’s initial motion was to founder, Peter LeHew – “We’ve that three times BAR appeals had board members may continue to Silek, who was also the subject of restrict BAR appointments to been paying taxes on the same been heard by council, including come from a pool including any closed session BAR performance town residents. dirt for hundreds of years,” she two in which he voted in the BAR county resident. Both the Front review that evening. said – pointed out that the town minority. He reminded council Royal Planning Commission and Arguments has historically set restrictions or that on each occasion it had sided the BAR board itself had recom- Motions guidelines on building from its with his stance on the appealed mended against the proposed In prefacing his remarks, Hrbek inception. issues. change due to a historically lim- The amendments offered to Hol- noted, “it is no secret I want to Silek’s son David also ques- “Any appointed member of the ited pool of qualified applicants loway’s initial motion included: get rid of the Historic District.” tioned the advisability of elimi- BAR may be removed from of- for BAR seats. Despite that Hrbek said he felt nating a possible pool of BAR fice by the town council for- in The defeat of the initiative did 1. Hrbek’s motion to amend that as long as the town had a applicants with a vested interest efficiency, neglect of duties or not come before a testy exchange the ordinance change to include Historic District with established in, and experience with Historic malfeasance,” Silek quoted from between Holloway and BAR town residents or “property own- architectural standards, mem- District architectural standards. town codes. He said if council member David Silek and one hu- ers in the affected district” passed bership of the board of review for “It is unconscionable to disen- would inform him of any such in- morous exchange over exactly unanimously; those standards should not ex- franchise many with an interest fractions he would resign. what the series of three amend- clude property owners who may in the district,” Silek said of Hollo- Following the closed session, ments offered had led council to . Parker’s amendment to re- not live in the district or town. way’s initial proposal that would council took no action on Silek’s vote on at various points. strict appointments to “registered BAR member Joan Harding re- eliminate the owners of business position with the BAR. With Sayre having expressed town voters” was defeated 4-3, iterated points she made before and other properties within the However, the sparring between some confusion over the intent with Tewalt voting with Conkey, the planning commission seek- district from consideration for Silek and Holloway was just be- the BAR. “These people have a ginning (see previous story).

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“For over 200 years my constituents and their Virginia ancestors have been paying taxes to build one of the finest public higher education systems in the country. My constituents Education expect their children to be able to attend a Virginia public university.” - Del. Clay Athey

Athey proposes higher education reform legislation Push for increases in-state student admissions and increased transfer student ratios advance

From a release: HB – 2324 Admission of in-state students at public institutions of The following chart below shows the Fall 2008 undergraduate Del. Clifford “Clay” Athey, Jr. (R- higher education. Provides that Warren) proposed legislation to the board of visitors or other enrollment for in-state and out-of-state students at Virginia’s make public colleges and univer- governing body of each public four-year public colleges and universities. sities accessible to more Virginia institution of higher education students by requiring Virginia must establish rules and regula- Public Universities to accept at tions requiring that, beginning least 70 percent of their under- with the transfer students for the School In-State Percent Out-of-State Percent Totals graduates from in-state student fall of 2010, at least 80 percent of C. Newport ,532 95 31 5 ,763 applications. HB 2325 passed transfer students admitted to the George Mason 16,393 87 ,416 13 18,809 sub-committee and advanced to institution be Virginia domiciles. James Madison 11,899 70 5,017 30 16,916 the House Education Commit- State funds must be withheld tee where both HB 2325 and HB from any institution that does Longwood 3,810 95 14 5 ,024 2324 are expected to be incorpo- not fulfill the 80 percent require- Mary Washington 3,294 78 937  ,231 rated in the Biennial Budget. ment. Norfolk State ,574 81 1,079 19 5,653 The following are summaries of Old Dominion 15,868 92 1,462 8 17,330 HB -2325 and HB -2324: Delegate Athey commented on Radford 7,578 93 577 7 8,155 HB 2325: “For over 200 years my HB – 2325 Admission of in-state constituents and their Virginia U. of Va. 10,134 67 5,074 33 15,208 students at public institutions of ancestors have been paying taxes VCU 20,378 89 ,414 11 ,792 higher education. Provides that to build one of the finest public U. of Va. Wise 1,873 95 91 5 1,964 the board of visitors or other gov- higher education systems in the VMI 857 60 571 0 1,428 erning body of each public insti- country. My constituents expect Virginia State ,951 66 1,538 3 ,489 tution of higher education must their children to be able to attend establish rules and regulations a Virginia public university. Un- Virginia Tech 17,344 74 6,223 6 3,567 requiring that, beginning with fortunately, some of our univer- William & Mary 3,989 68 1,861 32 5,850 the incoming freshman class of sities are refusing admission to 2010, at least 70 percent of stu- high achieving in-state students Source: The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) dents admitted to the institution in favor of applicants from New be Virginia domiciles. State funds Jersey, New York or England. The children of Virginia taxpayers. I of taxpayers in other states and struggling during this time of must be withheld from any insti- primary purpose for the creation am grateful that, in spite of the countries, the House Education economic uncertainty can be as- tution that does not fulfill the 70 of our Virginia Public University vocal opposition from some of Committee and House Appro- sured that if they choose to send percent requirement. System was to provide a cost-ef- our public universities who are priations Committee have recog- their children to a Virginia com- fective college education for the using state tax dollars to promote nized the importance of my leg- munity college, they can take ad- the education of the children islation by endorsing the bill as a vantage of the guaranteed admis- part of the House Budget.” sion program at twenty percent Athey also commented on HB of the tuition costs of a Virginia 2324 that Virginia public univer- public university. Most impor- This color ad costs about sities should maintain a ratio of tantly, this bill gives their chil- eighty percent Virginians when dren who graduate from com- accepting transfer students if this munity college first priority for forty bucks. Give your bill is incorporated as language acceptance at our finest Virginia in the budget. Parents who are universities. business the exposure it Didn’t finishH igh School? needs by placing an ad You need your GED! Want to get it FREE? • Sales & Service • Design & Installations • Grid Tie & Off Grid • Back Up Power • Stand By Systems in the only locally-owned FREE GED Practice Tests & Classes • Commercial, Industrial & Residential Blue Ridge Technical Center & Samuels Library newspaper in Warren Free Estimates (540) 667-9744 or (800) 435-5945 County. Financing Available www.needmyged.org TC ENTERPRIZES

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“In modern democracies, it’s very hard for common, everyday citizens to make themselves heard, unless large groups of them take to the streets,” says author Soumitra Dutta. “In the book we suggest what we saw Technology with the recent election might be an indicator that the Internet, and specifically social networking sites, will make the emergence of a new citizen-empowered Democracy 2.0 possible.

FiveThe Reasons WhyRise Web 2.0 Isof Changing Democracy the Face of American Politics 2.0:

by some and “too liberal” by oth- ten for a wide audience about the times. These powerful Democ- the emergence of a new citizen- ers, convince so many Americans powerful trend that is reshaping racy 2.0 tools are transforming empowered Democracy 2.0 pos- that he was the man who could our lives: the Web 2.0 social net- politics and may soon bring pro- sible. To be heard, all you’ll need lead the country through one of working revolution. The authors found changes to the way gov- is an online presence, and today its most difficult times in histo- examine the powerful forces be- ernments interact with citizens. that is easier than ever to create.” ry? hind the social e-revolution, de- A new era of e-democracy and If you’re reluctant to believe that One of the keys to understand- tailing often absurd and powerful e-government is dawning.” the times are changing all that ing President Obama’s stunning reactions to it as well as making Reader’s Digest dubbed the fast, here’s a look at how and why electoral victory, say authors Mat- predictions about its long-term 2008 presidential election the social networking will change the thew Fraser and Soumitra Dutta, consequences. (In case you’re “Facebook Election” due to voter business of American politics. is his savvy mastery of Web 2.0 wondering, the book takes its title mobilization by all the candi- platforms like Facebook, Twitter, from a popular Facebook widget, dates on that social networking Five Reasons Why Web 2.0 Is and YouTube. sheep-throwing, which serves as site. During the election, Face- Changing the Face of American “Obama wasn’t the only can- one of many ways members play- book launched its own political Politics didate to use Web 2.0 tools dur- fully interact with their online forum to encourage online de- ing the election campaign,” says friends.) bates about voter issues. In what 1. It allows candidates to skip the Fraser, coauthor with Dutta of “The 2008 election campaign might be an indicator of how new media. The two presidential can- Throwing Sheep in the Board- marks a rupture with the past not and old media will work together didates received their fair share By Dottie DeHart room: How Online Social Net- only because the Web was used in the future, Facebook teamed of positive and negative coverage working Will Transform Your by candidates to mobilize voters up with ABC News for election from the media. But when it came While pundits were focused Life, Work and World (Wiley, and raise money, but more im- coverage and forums, and CNN to getting out the exact message on Barack Obama’s race, John 2008, ISBN: 978-0-470-74014- portantly because the Web be- teamed up with YouTube to hold he wanted, Obama didn’t have McCain’s age, and Sarah Palin’s 9, $29.95). “But he was the only came a platform for spontaneous presidential debates. to rely on the mainstream me- gender, another largely over- candidate to master it and use citizen engagement in the politi- So, what’s the reason for the dia. He had 2 million supporters looked factor was taking hold in platforms like Facebook and You- cal process,” says Fraser. Web 2.0 “e-ruption” into politics? on Facebook to John McCain’s American politics. Obama was Tube to appeal to a new genera- “The sites and Web commu- “In modern democracies, it’s 600,000 that he could easily reach becoming the first presidential tion of Web-savvy voters. He is nities themselves also got in- very hard for common, every- with updates to his page, and candidate with massive techno- the first occupant of the White volved. The ‘Yes We Can’ video day citizens to make themselves 112,000 supporters on Twitter demographic appeal. Authors House to have won a presidential on YouTube was not made by heard, unless large groups of to McCain’s 4,600, not to men- Matthew Fraser and Soumitra election on the Web.” the Obama campaign, but by hip them take to the streets,” says tion the extensive direct e-mail Dutta have published an insight- “It is clear that Obama knew hop star Will.i.am who produced Dutta. “In the book we suggest list of supporters who received ful new book exploring how exactly what he was doing and it and uploaded it onto the Web. what we saw with the recent elec- daily updates from the big play- Web 2.0 platforms are reshaping how to be successful at it,” adds The video quickly went viral, and tion might be an indicator that ers in his campaign including his American politics. Dutta. “He brought in a 24-year- before Obama won the election, the Internet, and specifically so- wife, Michelle Obama. Obama’s old Facebook co-founder, who it had been viewed 20 million cial networking sites, will make YouTube channel attracted more When Barack Obama was helped him develop his Web than 18 million visits, while Mc- sworn in as the country’s first blitzkrieg. He left no Web 2.0 Creative Touch Cain’s channel attracted barely African-American president, he stone unturned, from social net- “Quality more than 2 million. Family Owned was as different from his prede- working sites to podcasting to Work, at a “Sites like YouTube allowed & Operated cessor George W. Bush and his mobile messaging, and as a result price you can Obama to reach people in a way Since 1995 team of “old school” politicians he created an ‘e-ruption’ not only afford!” that he would never have been as an iPhone is from a rotary dial in American politics but through- able to achieve solely through telephone. And if you’re won- out the world.” Paint & Drywall media coverage,” says Fraser. dering how he did it, you’re not In their groundbreaking book, alone. Political experts around the authors explore the connect- Free Estimates! 2. It’s cheap and cost-effective. the world are asking the same ed new world that helped make Licensed/Insured • References • Interior/Exterior In Democracy 2.0, political can- question: How did a young U.S. Obama’s rise to the Oval Office Commercial • Industrial • Residential didates can reach more people Senator, called “inexperienced” possible. It is the first book writ- with less money. Take Obama’s • Custom Colors online advertising spending, for • Staining example. His campaign spent less $9.99 Limited Time Offer • Wallpaper than $8 million on online spend- Removal ing, much of which went to ad- * Men’s Regular Haircuts * • Drywall words by Google. The campaign Installation and also spent $467,000 on Facebook. 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to the Campaign Media Analy- online donations alone, he was reach through social networking,” Architectural Old House Parts, Inc. sis Group, the Obama campaign able to raise over $500 million. adds Dutta. “While some of this Salvaged house parts=green construction spent a whopping $235,974,838 And of that $500 million more could have happened without a Entryway • Mantles • 5 ½’ clawfoot tub on broadcasting TV ads. While than $160 million came from Web presence, it likely wouldn’t 7’ copper tub w pine surround • Unusual Doors, Windows both his online campaign and supporters who gave compara- have been enough to get him Ask about window restoration TV ad campaign were crucial tively tiny amounts of $200 or elected, and it certainly wouldn’t 540-636-7984 • www.Oldhouseparts.net to his getting elected, there’s no less. These numbers prove once have manifested in the fervent denying that you can make your again that without a grasp of Web support that he sees among his dollars go a little farther online, 2.0 and the fundraising capabili- biggest supporters today.” a fact that opens up the political ties it offers, political candidates game to many more players. will not be able to compete in the 5. It facilitates civic engagement D&B Chocolate The Web is low-cost but high- future.” and creates social capital. In most “Be My Valentine” baskets for $25.00. reach, which makes it a great tool modern democracies, voter turn- The basket includes 2 truffles, for campaigning. The PewRe- 4. Candidates can effectively mo- out is alarmingly low, and politi- 1/4 lb of fudge and 1/4 of chocolates. searchCenter found that 46 per- bilize supporters. The vision of a cal life is the business of a small cent of Americans used the Web, networked, participatory, activist minority. The vast majority are 120 - 124 E. Main St. • Front Royal, VA e-mail, or text messaging for news democracy is not a techno-uto- passive observers of the political about the presidential campaign, pia. It’s precisely what Alexis de process, making their voice heard to contribute to the debate, or to Tocqueville witnessed in Amer- only in times of crisis or momen- mobilize others. Some 35 percent ica nearly two centuries ago—a tous import. However, citizens BUDGET SELF STORAGE of Americans said they’d watched robust civil society and egalitar- show more loyalty to a political online political videos—three ian spirit that motivated citizens system, and feel more compelled times more than during the 2004 to engage in all manner of vol- to engage in civic activity, when presidential election (before You- untary associations. The pros- they have confidence that their Tube was created). And roughly pect, nearly two hundred years voice is heard and represented. 10 percent said they’d logged on later, of harnessing these vigor- “Obama’s supporters were to social networking sites like ous public-spirited energies not able to make their voices heard Facebook and MySpace to engage only in America but throughout through their Facebook profiles, in the election. the world, is surely a vision that their Tweets, or by signing up to “Web 2.0 seems to be an at- should be encouraged. receive his e-mail updates,” says tractive way for people to get in- “Obama harnessed the energies Fraser. “His embrace of Web 2.0 volved with what’s going on polit- of his supporters in many ways,” social networking opportunities ically, and it’s cheap enough that says Dutta. “He used an iPhone closed the sense of disconnect be- First Month FREE! you don’t have to have millions or app that allowed supporters to tween him and his followers and billions of dollars if you want to feel politically engaged while gave them a way to be heard— with 1 Month Paid Rent & Security Deposit use it to make a name for your- spreading pro-Obama messages which, in turn, made them more With Coupon *Subject to availability self in the political world,” says to their contact lists. He used fervent in their support and more Dutta. “Web 2.0 could very well Twitter and text messaging to tell likely to go out and spread the be the platform that reinvigorates supporters who his VP would be word.” INCREDIBLE PRICES! political debate, fosters civic en- before the media even knew. And “As voters massively shift toward gagement, and allows grassroots he used a direct e-mail campaign the Internet for social interaction, 540-635-4000 • 800-296-0044 movements outside the political with messages that constantly en- consumer purchasing, and politi- Rt. 619 & Corner of Airport Rd • Front Royal duopoly of Democrats and Re- couraged supporters to volunteer cal participation, office-seekers publicans to gain in popularity.” and donate money to the cam- are wisely rushing to establish paign. As a result, his support- an online presence and connect 3. It makes grassroots fundraising ers felt like they were part of the with voters on the ground,” says highly effective. In June 2008, re- campaign and transferred that Dutta. “Given the power of Web versing a previous stance, Obama feeling of inclusion into action. 2.0—socially, commercially, and The Woodburning Lady announced that he wouldn’t ac- They canvassed. They made calls. organizationally—there can be cept public financing and the They convinced their friends and no doubt that it will, inevitably, Beautiful Custom Hand-Crafted Woodburnt restraints that come with it to family that Obama was the man produce an e-ruptive impact on run his campaign. The decision for the job. our political institutions. And if Personalized Wood Gifts for All Occasions caused uproar from the Republi- “Essentially the people Obama the values of democracy prevail, cans and raised more than a few was reaching through social net- we can be reassured that it will eyebrows in his own party. As a working went out and helped him bring about a better world.” New York Times article at the reach the people who he couldn’t time put it: “His decision to break an earlier pledge to take public money will quite likely transform All lines of insurance: the landscape of presidential campaigns, injecting hundreds of millions of additional dollars into  Auto  Health the race and raising doubts about  Business the future of public financing for Insure with us national races.”  Life  Home “Obama’s team speculated that with confidence! he could bring in $200 to $300 thewoodburninglady.com • 540-305-6347 million for the general election,” 11 Water Street · Front Royal, VA (540) 635-8401 says Fraser. “And indeed, through Page 40 • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009

Letters are encouraged. Please limit them to 750 words unless prior arrangements are Letters made. Email letters to [email protected] and be sure to include your name, town and contact information.

Eminent Domain who wonder if a constitutional Constitution is all about. the threshold of the ruined tene- amendment is really necessary This amendment would - nar ment!” Dear Governor Kaine: On January 27, I went before a could have been there. How can row the definition of public use This country fought a war to Privileges & Elections subcom- we do this during an economic so that neither state nor local throw off the crown and to em- I cannot emphasize enough mittee to make the case for en- downturn, he questioned, when government can take property brace the belief in certain funda- how important it is for you to en- shrining protections of private localities would be most interest- for economic development pur- mental rights, chief among them gage in the debate involving the property in the Virginia Consti- ed in taking properties for eco- poses. life, liberty, and property. It is siting of huge transmission pow- tution. The Kelo v. New London nomic development purposes? The great British statesman a pleasure to report to you that er lines across parts of the north- case brought national attention One understands, of course, William Pitt, a partisan of Ameri- for now, we’re one step closer to ern tier of the Commonwealth. to eminent domain abuse, but why localities want to increase can independence and a cham- bringing Virginia’s constitution You know from my previous let- the abuse has a long history. Two local employment and grow their pion of her values, put the case so in line with freedoms envisioned ters how closely I have been fol- years ago, I worked long and hard tax base, but I think most Virgin- eloquently that his words, though by the founding generation. lowing this issue. I want to take with Sen. Ken Cuccinelli (R-Fair- ians would recoil at the idea that over two hundred years old, are this opportunity to bring you up fax) and others in a successful they could be out of a home be- still worth quoting today. “The Sen. Mark Obenshain to speed on the latest develop- effort to pass statutory eminent cause a box store wants to move poorest man may in his cottage Harrisonburg, VA ments. domain reform, but we are not in. That’s precisely what the 2007 bid defiance to all the forces of Last Thursday night a senior resting on our laurels. Opponents legislation was intended to pre- the Crown. It may be frail—its Wolf on power line member of my staff attended a of these reforms are already try- vent, and it’s also precisely what roof may shake—the wind may meeting at Lovettsville Elemen- ing to chip away at the gains we opponents of eminent domain blow through it—the storm may January 27, 2009 tary School where more than 350 made, which is why I want to put reform are so eager to start doing enter—the rain may enter—but area residents turned out to learn these important property protec- again. I say no, and that’s what en- the King of England cannot en- The Honorable Tim Kaine more about Allegheny Power’s tions where they belong – in the shrining these rights in Virginia’s ter! All his forces dare not cross Governor of Virginia PATH project. The fire - mar Virginia Constitution. State Capitol shal at one point stopped letting You might think that after the Specializing in Richmond VA 23219 people into the school because post-Kelo backlash, legislators and planning officials would give • Steaks it a rest. As I write, however, a Come Dance with Us… battle is still raging about a tak- Great for the Heart, Good for the Soul ings case in Roanoke, and just • Seafood yesterday a bill came before me in subcommittee that would have • Pasta expanded the definition of blight- Open for Lunch & Dinner The Front Royal – Warren County ed property to include a great Everyday from 11 am - 11 pm many temporarily vacant resi- dential and commercial buildings Please call for reservations AMERICAN RED CROSS that pose no danger to the com- 915 North Royal Street • Front Royal, VA munity. Virginia’s new statutory protections are good ones, and 540-635-1862 I’m proud of my role in bring- ing them about, but legislation can be eroded away by new laws, and there are plenty of people out there trying to do precisely that. In subcommittee today, a lob- byist for the other side did me a great favor – he made my case for me. I only wish that all those Valentines Day Dance About 20,000 people read this paper. Music by DJ Connection

WHEN – February 14, 7:00 to 11:00 PM A full-color ad this size costs less than a hundred bucks. WHERE – Bowling Green Country Club North DRESS Up or Dress Down. Come with Your Valentine or Find One There! Is your business benefiting from the area’s best advertising deal? Tickets - $25 per person: includes two drinks, snacks & entertainment. Bring a tax-deductible donation of a gift certificate or other item for the Silent Auction to be held April 25th, 2009 at the Shrimp, Oyster & BBQ Fest. You will earn the chance for a fabulous door prize raffled during the Let’s talk about it. Valentines Day Dance. Tickets and Information: Call the Red Cross at 635-2333, or Beth Waller at 671-6145. Event Sponsor: Beth Medved Waller, Inc., of Weichert Realtors. 540-305-6347 • lbryantwarrencountyreport.com Thanks for supporting the American Red Cross, Top of Virginia Chapter serving Winchester, Frederick, Clarke and Warren. Black & White

Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 41

Letters are encouraged. Please limit them to 750 words unless prior arrangements are made. Email letters to [email protected] and be sure to include your Letters name, town and contact information. it was so crowded. On Friday, I constituents have been told that to afford the cost of a new vehicle sidered Cash for Clunkers pro- clicking on “Take Action.” attended a meeting in Frederick the towers along the route of the and would be a waste of taxpayer posals in the past and in many County of local elected officials PATH project could be as high as dollars. cases have decided against them. Sincerely, from Virginia and West Virginia. 17 stories.) Those seeking a ‘quick fix’ have Providing incentives for indi- The message at that meeting was • New technology is being used failed to consider the impact of viduals to purchase fuel efficient Aaron Lowe clear: they, and their constitu- in other countries that would sig- the program on lower and fixed vehicles or to have their current VP, Government Affairs ents, are not happy and feel that nificantly reduce the impact on income families as well as chari- vehicle maintained is a better Automotive Aftermarket Indus- the power companies are just the residents’ property while still ties. By taking vehicles off the use of federal money. Cash for try Association ramming these huge power lines transmitting necessary power. road that might be sold as used, Clunkers programs might look 7101 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 1300 down their throats. Why is it not being used here? the program will raise the price good on paper, but in reality they Bethesda, MD 20814-3415 At Friday’s meeting I encour- for all used vehicles, thus impact- are a bad idea and should be re- 301-654-6664 aged the elected officials on hand I am deeply concerned that ing those on limited income that jected by Congress. to reach out to their respective once the PATH proposal is sub- cannot afford new vehicles. Fur- Interested parties can send an e- [Letters are encouraged. Please governors and U.S. senators to mitted to the State Corporation ther, since the parts on those ve- mail in opposition to the Cash for limit them to 750 words unless express their concerns. I again Commission, it will be very diffi- hicles that are scrapped could be Clunkers program to the Speaker prior arrangements are made. urge you to convene a meeting – cult for the residents to effect any sold as used or reconditioned, the of the House, the Senate Majority Email letters to editor@warren- preferably in the northern tier of changes, as was the case with the program will cause an increase in Leader and their congressional countyreport.com and be sure the state – where concerned citi- TrAIL project. The SCC, in my repair prices for consumers. representatives by visiting www. to include your name, town and zens, elected officials and power opinion, has just become a rub- Congress and states have con- fightcashforclunkers.org and contact information.] company representatives can ber stamp for the power compa- come together in a public setting nies. The commissioners should to hear once and for all just why be required to attend hearings in these lines are needed and who is the affected areas and not rely on being served by them. One of the the recommendations of staff. representatives from Allegheny It is imperative that a strong Click told my staff Thursday night that message be conveyed to the pow- By Kevin S. Engle are you this evening?” point you, but I’ve had a public hearing where citizens er companies that the routes and Warren County Report “Fantastic. How are this number for close to were allowed to ask power com- the technology of these transmis- you?” five years, and Jesus pany representatives questions in sion lines are of grave concern to I’ve just about had it “Fine, thanks. I’m call- hasn’t lived here in that front of everyone in attendance both the elected officials in the with the phone. Here’s ing to thank you for your time.” – rather than the static, one-on- Commonwealth and the resi- why. donation to last year’s “You wouldn’t be lying one trade show type of meetings dents of the affected counties. “Hello?” the company hosted at the el- Before I close, I want to make Annual Fund and to see to me, would you?” ementary school – is not some- another appeal for you to also “Mr. Engle?” how much you’d like to Click. thing the company likes to do. convene a meeting with your “Yes.” contribute this year. If “Hello?” Clearly, they know these types of counterparts in Pennsylvania, “Hi, my name is Joe you give $100, you’ll be- “Hi, this is Chad from meetings do not play in their fa- West Virginia and Maryland to and I’m calling from the come a member of the the Yellow Pages. I’d vor. set in motion discussion of an local chapter of the Dem- There is a great deal of concern, “interstate compact” process for bodacious Blue Devil like to talk with you about particularly on the PATH proj- the siting of these huge transmis- ocratic National Party.” bunch.” your business listing, ect, that Virginia is just a “pass sion lines. “Ok.” “Amber, I don’t mean to Doggy Do Do.” through” for New Jersey and Your personal involvement in “Would you like to make be rude, but I had asked “ Chad , sorry to tell you New York. You are well aware of this issue is critical. a donation for the next that no one call me un- this, but I don’t have a the controversy surrounding the Presidential campaign?” TrAIL project. I have repeatedly Best wishes. til June. I donate every business.” asked to be shown how the power “You’re kidding right? year and that’s when I “Really? You wouldn’t companies have determined their Sincerely, We just had an election.” make my contribution.” be lying to me, would future needs and have yet to re- “No sir. I’m quite seri- “We don’t want you to you?” ceive a satisfactory answer. Par- Frank R. Wolf ous. If you donate $100, forget.” Click. ticularly disturbing is the recent Member of Congress you’ll become a distin- article in The Washington Post “How could I? Someone “Hello?” saying that local homes and busi- Cash for Clunkers guished Donkey club calls me every week.” “Mr. Engle?” nesses used about 2 percent less member.” Click. “He doesn’t live here electricity in the first nine months Editor: “Didn’t President “Hello?” anymore.” of 2008 than they did in 2007. Obama have tons of “Is this Jesus?” “You wouldn’t be lying As you might expect, there is The Cash for Clunkers program money left over from his a great deal of interest in the sit- being considered by Congress “Excuse me?” to me, would you?” ing of these lines and the theme for inclusion in the economic campaign?” “Are you Jesus?” “As a matter of fact, yes Engle’s Angle of the comments I have received stimulus package is really a wolf “Yes he did, but we want “No.” I would.” about them is consistent: in sheep’s clothing. The program more.” “Are you sure?” Click. would earmark federal funds for Click. “Very.” • There has not been enough in- car owners to trade-in their sport “Hello?” put as to how these lines are go- utility vehicles in exchange for “I’m Bill from Visa, and ing to be built and the routes that vouchers to be used to obtain “Mr. Engle?” Jesus owes us money. Mr. Engle recently can- they will follow. newer, more fuel efficient vehi- “Yes.” This is the number he celled his phone ser- • The value of the investment cles. On the surface the program “Hi, I’m Amber, a junior gave us.” vice. And that’s no lie. that residents have made in their may sound reasonable, but its at Duke University . How homes and in their and will be consequences will create issues “Bill, I’m sorry to disap- heavily impacted. (Some of my for those not fortunate enough Black & White

Page 42 • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009 Kids page Sponsor the Kids Page! Call Leanne Bryant 540-305-6347 • [email protected]

Sponsor the Kids Page! YOURCall Leanne AD Bryant HERE 540-305-6347 • [email protected] Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 43 Please e-mail brief calendar notices in this format to: Activities & events [email protected]

Baseball Camp War Between the States. Watch for for the March of Dimes mission – and Home Education Class Dean’s Steakhouse. Semi-formal or Sat, February 7 the ghost of Nettie Cooley. Meet at meet our new ambassador family, the Sat, February 14 formal attire. 1pm – 5pm the Cedar Creek Battlefield Founda- Culleys. 6pm – 9pm Warren County High School tion Visitors’ Center Route 11, south of Over 500,000 babies will be born Blue Ridge Housing Network ART Exhibit Opening Reception Middletown, VA • 7 p.m., February 9, too soon next year in the u.S. – One 115 Chester Street, Front Royal Sat., February 14 The Warren County Parks/Recre- 2009. Cost: $10 per person Remem- of every eight babies in front royal 5 pm - 7 pm ation Department in conjunction with ber dress warm and wear comfortable -- and in half those cases, doctors Blue Ridge Housing Network is host- CHANGES & Architectural Old Warren County High School will be shoes! RSVP to the CCBF at (540) will not be able to predict who is at ing a FREE VHDA Homeownership House Parts sponsoring a Wildcat Baseball Camp 869-2064 Post-tour refreshments at risk. Families, co-workers, civic or- Education Class tonight at 115 Ches- 120- A East Main Street today February 7 and February 21. the Visitors’ Center. All proceeds ben- ganization members, and neighbors ter Street. This program is designed to Cost is $50.00/person for 3 sessions efit the preservation and educational will gather this year on saturday, april take the mystery out of the home buy- CHANGES & Architectural Old or $20/00/person for one session. For outreach of the non-profit Cedar Creek 4 in lions park for a morning of walk- ing process and help first-time home- House Parts presents the paintings of more information please call Coach Battlefield Foundation. ing, food, and fun in front royal march buyers prepare to make the important Bill Whiting and the handcrafted barns Mathews at (540)327-9664 or via e- for babies. Funds raised support the choices related to homeownership. You of David Schuster running from Feb. 6 mail at [email protected]. Council Meeting march of dimes efforts to prevent birth will go over Personal Finances, Credit to May 6. Please join us and meet the Registration forms at Warren County Mon, February 9 defects and prematurity in babies both Reports, Role of the Lender, Workiing Artists at the Artist’s reception Feb. 14, Parks/Rec. Office 7pm – 8pm here and across the world. with your Real Estate Agent, Home In- 5:00 pm to 7:00pm. 120- A East Main Government Center Please note that rsvp’s for the team spections and Closing your Mortgage Street, Front Royal , VA You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown captain kickoff are requested by tues- Loan. This a Freddie Mac and Fannie Call for details 540-636-7984 Music, lyrics & adaptation by Clark BAR Meeting day, february 10. For more informa- Mac approved class. For reservation Gesner Tue, February 10 tion about attending the team captain please call (540)622-2711. Tea February 7, 14, 21 & 28 at 1:30 PM 7pm – 7pm kickoff, forming a team, volunteering, Sat, February 14 & 4:30 PM Government Center or sponsoring march for babies, con- American Red Cross 2 pm - 6 pm Five Rings Very Little Theatre, 620 tact mary knapp at 800/868-5894 or Valentine’s Dance 292 Hite Lane Virginia Avenue (636-2787) www. Library Event email [email protected] Sat, February 14 Strasburg, VA fiveringstheatre.com presents quality Wed, February 11 7pm – 11pm plays performed by adults for children. 10am – 11am Library Event Bowling Green Country Club North Treat your sweetheart to something All tickets are $5. Samuels Public Library Wed, Feb 11 11am – 12pm special this year! Full tea will be served Samuels Public Library The Front Royal-Warren County at 1812 Mount Pleasant Farm. Come Library Event The Children’s and Youth Services Branch of the American Red Cross visit this privately owned historic plan- Sat, February 7 Department of Samuels Public Library The Children’s and Youth Services will hold a Valentine’s Dance tonight. tation house Saturday, February 14, 1:30pm – 2:30pm host Storytime today for Toddlers. The Department of Samuels Public Library Tickets: $25.00/person. Enjoy karoke 2009 2 pm to 6 pm • $15 per person Samuels Public Library theme today is Valentines Day. host Storytime today for Preschoolers. and music by DJ Connection. Bring • 292 Hite Lane, Strasburg RSVP to The theme today is Valentines Day. a tax-deductible donation for a silent (540) 869-2064. All proceeds benefit The Children’s and Youth Services March of Dimes auction to be held in April and get a the preservation and educational out- Department of Samuels Public Library Front Royal March for Babies 2009 Library Event chance for a door prize raffled during reach of the non-profit Cedar Creek host the Knitting Club today for ages 9 Team Captain Kickoff Sat, Feb 14 10:30am – 11:30am the Dance. More Info: (540)635-2333 Battlefield Foundation. and up. Registration required. Thurs. Feb 12 Samuels Public Library or (540)671-6145. 6:30 pm Photography Exhibit Bridal Showcase The Children’s and Youth Services Knights of Columbus Sun, February 15 Sun, February 8 What: an event to meet other team Department of Samuels Public Library Valentine’s Dance 5:30pm – 7:00pm 12pm – 4pm leaders and learn how you can help host Books and Barks where you relax Sat, February 14 Blue Ridge Arts Council Bowling Green Country Club prevent birth defects, prematurity, and and read to Books and Barks Therapy 6:30 pm - 10 pm infant mortality Dogs. Registration required. Dean’s Steakhouse Enjoy an opening reception of the Blue Today is the “I Do Bridal Showcase”. Ridge Arts Council Photography Ex- Where brides and businesses come When: Thursday, February 12 – 6:30 Baseball Camp Come and have a GREAT TIME!! hibit to held at their Gallery at 305 E. together to make your wedding day pm Sat, February 14 Knights of Columbus Valentine’s Main Street tonight. The Exhibit dates special. Sponsored by the Front Roy- 1pm – 5pm Dinner Dance. For Information Con- are January 15 - February 27. al-Warren County Chamber of Com- Where: VFW Post 1860, 1437 North Warren County High School tact Tom Sayre (671-1514) or Ray merce, Debbie’s Ivy Garden and Bowl- Royal Avenue, Front Royal Newcomb (671-1173) or any brother BZA Meeting ing Green Country Club. For more The Warren County Parks/Recreation Knight. Tickets may be purchased Tue, February 17, 7pm – 8pm information please call the Chamber Why: to support the March of Department in conjunction with Warren at the St. John the Baptist Catholic Front Royal Town Hall at (540)635-3185. Dimes’ research in preventing prema- County High School will be sponsoring Church office or after Mass. Church ture births and birth defects a Wildcat Baseball Camp today and office hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Library Event Full Moon Tour February 21. Cost is $50.00/person for Make checks out to the “Knights of Co- Wed, February 18 Mon, February 9 How: anyone interested in helping 3 sessions or $20/00/person for one lumbus.” DJ provided. 2 main entrees, 10am – 11am 7 pm ensure that every baby is born healthy session. For more information please Full buffet, 2 desserts, Drinks included 11am – 12pm Cedar Creek Battlefield and full-term is invited to attend! At- call Coach Mathews at (540)327-9664 (alcohol purchased separately.) Tick- Samuels Public Library tendees will get more information on or via e-mail at [email protected]. ets: $22.50 per person if purchased Come join us for a Full Moon Tour on forming a team for march for babies va.us. Registration forms at Warren in advance. $25.00 per person at the Cedar Creek Battlefield. Join our reen- 2009. Volunteer team leaders will County Parks/Rec. Office door. Saturday, February 14, 2008. Please e-mail brief calendar notices actors as they describe the Battle of have the opportunity to share ideas, 6:30 pm to 10 pm. (Salad and drinks in this format to: Cedar Creek. Learn more about the breakfast or lunch, and their passion begin at 6:30 pm, dinner at 7:00 pm.) [email protected] Page 44 • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009

Front Royal-Warren County Chamber of Commerce

BRIDAL SHOWCASE at 635-3185 or priffle@frontroyalchamber. monWealth One VISA credit card you Warren Memorial Hospital will be offering The Administration, teachers and families com by February 18th. are entered into our $200.00 VISA GIFT a massage class for couples on Saturday, of Mountain Laurel Montessori School are If weddings are a part of your business, CARD SWEEPSTAKES! CommonWealth February 14th from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. You proud to announce the school’s 20th An- then your business needs to be a part REALITY STORE VOLUNTEERS NEED- One Federal Credit Union “Your Lifetime and your significant other, family member niversary! Mountain Laurel was founded of the 2009 I Do Bridal Showcase. The ED Financial Partner”…For more information or friend can learn how to massage each in 1989 as a non-profit school, opening showcase will be held on Sunday, Febru- call 540-635-9600 or www.cofcu.org. other’s hands, neck, shoulders, and back in leased space with 16 preschoolers. ary 8th at Bowling Green Country Club. The Chamber’s Education Committee for relaxation and stress relief. Make the Thanks to the community’s support and Spaces are available at all levels. Non- is coordinating the “Reality Store” for all Akila V. Iyer, MD will be joining the Warren class part of your Valentine’s Day celebra- a lot of hard work, Mountain Laurel now exhibiting vendors: For $25 you can in- sophomores at Warren County and Skyline Memorial Hospital staff as the new pre- tion with your sweetheart, or simply enjoy owns two campuses and educates stu- clude information about your business in High Schools. The Reality Store will take siding physician of Occupational Health spending part of the afternoon together with dents through 9th grade from Front Royal the goodie bags for the brides, 50 total place at Skyline High School on Wednes- Services, located at the WMH Outpatient a family member or friend practicing your and 8 surrounding counties. Monica needed. Contact the Chamber to reserve day, February 11th and Warren County Center, 120 N. Commerce Avenue, Front massage skills. No disrobing is necessary Nixon, Founding Director and elementary your space today at 635-3185 or info@ High School on Thursday, February 12th Royal, Virginia, effective February 2, 2009. for the class. Eka Kapiotis, CMT, and Kelly teacher states, “We are grateful to Front frontroyalchamber.com. from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. on both days. The Dr. Iyer is board certified in family medicine Clark, CMT, will teach the class. They both Royal’s residents and businesses that Reality Store provides students with a look and comes to Valley Health Occupational have extensive training and experience in have generously supported us through THE LIFELINE SEMINAR SERIES at life after high school and helps teach a Health Services from the INOVA Heath Swedish and deep muscle techniques in the years. I started this school so that my valuable lesson on the importance of fur- System where she was Occupational addition to other therapies. The fee for own daughter could have a Montessori The Chamber, EDA, and LFSBDC are ther education. Volunteers are needed for Health Medical Director. She was medical the class is $45.00 per couple. Pre-regis- education. Now she works at the school collaborating on a seminar series – “The both days. Contact the Chamber at 635- director for clinical care at INOVA Urgent tration is required. For more information or herself!” Mountain Laurel is currently Lifeline Series” -- for businesses on navi- 3185 or [email protected] to Care in Chantilly, VA, and has experience to register, please call Massage Therapy seeking alumni and friends to celebrate gating difficult economic times. The first volunteer or for more information. in emergency care, oncology, nephrology, at Wellness services at 636-0608. Mountain Laurel’s Birthday on Saturday, seminar was held on December 10th at the infectious diseases and geriatrics. February 21, 5:00-9:00 PM at the Front EDA offices. The speaker for that seminar, VALLEY SMOKIN BBQ FESTIVAL The Front Royal-Warren County Branch Royal Moose Lodge. For more informa- Casey Willson, is a retail specialist with the Front Royal 4-H Center to Announce $5 of the American Red Cross will hold a tion about this event and all that Mountain Maryland Small Business Development The Chamber is pleased to announce Million “Dreams Need Heroes” Campaign. Valentine’s Dance Saturday February 14th Laurel Montessori School offers, call (540) Center. He is an accomplished retailer for that the “Valley Smokin BBQ Festival” has There will be a networking breakfast and from 7-11 at Bowling Green North. Tickets 636-4257 or visit their website: ww.Mounta more than 35 years. For the first event, been sanctioned by the Kansas City BBQ briefing on Thursday, February 5, 2009, are $25 per person, karaoke and music by inLaurelMontessori.org. he brought his dynamic style and wealth Society. The BBQ Festival will be held on 8 am to 9:30 am in the 4-H Center’s DJ Connection. Tickets: 635-2333 or 671- of knowledge to the group, and won high October 2 & 3, 2009. This event promises Molden Hall Dining Room 600 4-H Drive, 6145. Bring a tax-deductible donation for The Friends of Samuels Library is sponsor- praise for the content of his presentation. to bring teams from all over the country to Front Royal, VA 22630. This campaign a silent auction to be held April 25th, 2009 ing “Nature Photography: Simply Beauti- He will be revisiting Front Royal in the compete for the title of best BBQ! If you targets the creation of a new state-of-the- at the Shrimp, Oyster & BBQ Fest and get ful” on Sunday, February 22nd, 2 p.m. at near future to conduct individual assess- are interested in serving on the BBQ Fes- art equestrian facility, restoration of a rare a chance for a fabulous door prize raffled the Samuels Library Conference Room. ments for retailers. The next seminar in tival committee, competing in the event, or turn-of-the-century US Calvary Remount during the Valentine Dance. Join Ann and Rob Simpson as they pres- the series is scheduled for February 24th, being a crafter at the event – contact Pam Depot, enhanced services for 4-H children, ent the basics of digital photography and 8 a.m. until 10 a.m. at the Warren County Riffle at [email protected] or adults, visitors and conference attendees. The Front Royal Women’s Resource Cen- digital camera usage. Bring your camera Government Center. This seminar, en- 635-3185. Known regionally for its leadership in ter is beginning our Dare to Dream cycle and your questions. titled “SOS-Bankers Forum” will focus on: unique and innovative programming, the for 2009 grants. Applications are available *Potential Traps and Pitfalls; *Protecting MEMBER NEWS Northern Virginia 4-H Educational & Con- beginning Dec. 1, 2008. Any woman, age The Warren Coalition’s Youth In Action Yourself and Your Business; *Banking Ser- ference Center serves 19 Northern Virginia 18 years and older and a resident of War- group is sponsoring its fifth annual talent vices Available in Tough Times; *Partner- Mention the Chamber and SAVE! At Royal jurisdictions which include over 32,000 4-H ren County may apply. The grant’s goal is show, “Youth Have Talent 09’.” Every year ships Between Banks and Businesses in Oak Computers, tell them you are a Cham- members and volunteers. Interested par- to provide women with an opportunity to the show gets bigger and better. Proceeds Getting to “Safe Harbor”; *Understanding ber member when you come in to shop and ties are encouraged to contact Campaign take a bold step forward in their lives or to benefit the youth of our community: YIA Unique Economic Times; and *Obstacles take $5.00 off our Spill Proof Keyboard or Coordinator Andrea Gaines for more infor- support the momentum if they are already members attending the Youth Alcohol and Banks Face in Difficult Times. In addition Labtec Optical Mouse. Regular $24.95 mation and/or to RSVP for the breakfast on their way. Past applicants have used Drug Abuse Prevention Project Conven- to the roster of speakers, the Virginia De- and $19.95 respectively, save by being a briefing: (540) 338-4800; andrea@andre- their grants to attend classes at Lord Fair- tion, Harmony Place Children’s Program, partment of Business Assistance and the Chamber Member. Valid thru 2/7/2009. againes.com fax Community College, purchase com- and the Last Dollar Scholarship. The show federal Small Business Administration will Royal Oak Computers located at 131 E. puters, buy books, attend beauty school, will be held on Thurs., Feb. 26th at 7:00 have displays and information on hand for Main St. Open Monday thru Saturday until Let D&B Chocolates help you make this create a garden for hospice patients, start at Skyline High School, but includes acts attendees. To register for this seminar, 6PM. Valentine’s Day special. Custom gift a business or create a non-profit. Past ap- from both high schools. It is an inexpen- contact the Chamber at 635-3185 or info@ baskets with all the lushes chocolates plicants and recipients may reapply every sive night of great entertainment, and will frontroyalchamber.com. Cost to attend is DFR is trying to help get the word out about your Valentine loves. Truffles, Fudge and year. Grants range in amounts from $500 - give teens an opportunity to be a part of $10/Chamber member or $20/non-mem- a really great opportunity for you to pro- everything in between. Be My Valentine $1,000. Consider applying yourself or give something positive. Any help from the ber. In March, the EDA, Chamber, and mote your business on the Radio for only Basket $25.00 has everything you need to it to another woman that might be ready business community will be greatly ap- LFSBDC join in partnership with Shenan- $15.00!! It’s all part of Tourism Tuesday. If make the day special. We also have 1 lb for a new dream in her life. Applications preciated. There are three levels of spon- doah University’s Byrd School of Business you are not familiar with Tourism Tuesday, and 1/2 lb boxes of chocolates. 1/2 lb box are available: From our website: www. sorship, with incentives for businesses. Advisory Board for a workshop on entre- the River 95.3 does a talk show about hap- for $7.50 or 1 lb box for $14.99. Truffle frwrc.org or http://www.frwrc.or/d/dareto- Donations of gift certificates will also be preneurship in tough economic times. The penings in and around Downtown. They are $2.50 each these come in boxes of 3 dreamappnew.pdf, Royal Oak Bookshop, used as door prizes and rewards for the workshop is scheduled for March 10th offer 12 fifteen second commercial spots and 8. Don’t forget we also have Sugar Samuels Library, or by calling the FRWRC participants. Advertising will appear on from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the SU campus for only $15.00 each. Everyone should be Free Chocolates. These come in 1 lb. and office for mail or pickup 636-7007. Office TV3 Winchester and on The River 95.3 in Winchester. taking advantage of this great (and super 1/2 lb. boxes as well. 1/2 lb box for $8.00 hours are Wednesday 9AM -11AM. Mail WZRV, as well as posters and a power cheap) advertising opportunity. You are or 1 lb box for $15.99. Call ahead for a all applications to: FRWRC, PO Box 1784, point at the beginning of the show. (There REALTOR FORUM & LUNCHEON encouraged to secure slots for several quick pick up or come in and let us help Front Royal, VA 22630. The deadline for is a need for judges for auditions on Jan. Tuesdays in advance. For more informa- you customize that special basket. We applications is February 15, 5:00 p.m. 27th and 28th!) Please call Diane Fisher Hear the latest news and happenings tion, contact Debbie Nicholson at the River are located at 120 E Main St. Right across If you have a dream, this may be your at 540-636-6385 for more information or a about our community, school system, law 540-635-4121, or dnicholson@royalbroad- from Schewel’s furniture store. For more chance to see it come true. sponsorship packet. The Warren Coalition enforcement, economic development office casting.com information call 622-2455. D&B Choco- is a 501(c)3 and Youth In Action members and more to help you close the deal. You lates is pairing up with Vino E Fromaggio Are you interested in starting or joining a work to build leaders and reduce underage are invited to the Realtor/Builder Forum & Let CommonWealth One Federal Credit on Saturday, February 7th, for a wine a Relay For Life team? It’s never too late! drinking and drug use in our community.” Luncheon on Wednesday, February 25, 9 Union on Shenandoah Avenue help you chocolate pairing from 2-5p.m. This is a Find out how at the monthly team meet- a.m. at the Warren County Government consolidate your credit card debt. Open great way to find that perfect wine to go ing to be held on Monday, February 16th at Center. Lunch is included. The Forum is a VISA credit card with CommonWealth with the chocolates you love. 7PM at the FR Fire Hall on Commerce Av- sponsored by Embarq, BB&T, The Apple One and from January 1st through Febru- enue. Help fight this battle against cancer! House, Jack Evans Chevrolet & Cadillac, ary 28th all balance transfers will have a Do you like giving massage, but wondered For more information contact Maria Bolton Culligan, The River 95.3 FM, CBM Mort- low 6.90% APR UNTIL THEY ARE PAID if you were doing it “right”? Here’s an op- at [email protected] or visit our gage, LLC and TV3 Winchester. To rsvp IN FULL. Also when you transfer your portunity to learn from some profession- website at www.frwcrelay.org or for more information contact Pam Riffle balance from another card to your Com- als! Valley Health’s Wellness Services at www.frontroyalva.com Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 45

Advertise • Call Leanne Bryant at 540-305-6347 • [email protected] Diversions Page 46 • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009

Diversions Advertise • Call Leanne Bryant at 540-305-6347 • [email protected] Mid February, 2009 • Warren County Report • Page 47

Advertise • Call Leanne Bryant at 540-305-6347 • [email protected] Diversions Page 48 • Warren County Report • Mid February, 2009

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