News

Holtzman Companies Plan Verona Expansion

MT JACKSON, VA – Holtzman Oil Corp. and Holtzman Propane announced plans today to open a new office and showroom in Verona, VA to better serve customers in Augusta County and the surrounding communities. The companies already provide propane, heating oil, lubricants and fuels to residential and commercial customers throughout the region. “The new location will help us become more involved in the community, and strengthen our commitment to customers in the Shenandoah Valley and beyond,” said Holtzman Propane

EMU and Lord Fairfax Community College sign transfer agreement

A new agreement between Lord Fairfax Community College and Eastern Mennonite University creates pathways for transfer students to earn a bachelor’s degree in leadership and organizational management. LFCC graduates can complete the 15-month, four-semester program, gaining skills in organizational development, team dynamics, human resources and leadership.  The unique format, in which students move through the program in a cohort of 12-15 classmates, increases academic success and retention, according

Lawmakers Voice Concerns For Business, Public Safety At Business Summit

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  9/24/20  Nearly 100 people electronically joined the eighth annual Valley Business Summit on Wednesday to hear from elected officials and local economic development leaders about the future of business and industry regulations in the region and commonwealth.Dels. Tony Wilt, R- Broadway, Chris Runion, R-Bridgewater, Ronnie Campbell, R-Bath, and John Avoli, R-Staunton, said they were concerned for business and public safety because of the Democratic Party’s majority in the

Smith House Galleries Features Virtual Exhibition: Animal Instinct, Works by Maune, Merkel, and Morey

For Immediate Release September 22, 2020 Contact: Ann Leatherwood 540.801.8779 Ann@valleyarts.org Smith House Galleries Features Virtual Exhibition: Animal Instinct, Works by Maune, Merkel, and Morey HARRISONBURG, VA – Arts Council of the Valley (ACV) announces a virtual Smith House Galleries exhibition in October, Animal Instincts, featuring paintings by Dietrich Maune and Julia Merkel, with photography by AJ Morey. Animal Instincts opens Oct 1 at valleyarts.org/current-exhibition. The exhibition

Fall Plant & Bulb Sale - Edith J. Carrier Arboretum (JMU)

Fall Plant & Bulb SaleFriday, Sept. 25 - Saturday, Oct. 3 | 9 AM - 3 PM**Closed Sunday, 9/27**  Shop from a wide array of native plants: bulbs, perennials, shrubs, trees and houseplants! This ongoing sale takes place in the Frances Plecker Education Center and on the Ernst Tree Terrace.  Parking available along University Blvd (between our two stone gates), within Arboretum lots, and in designated Arboretum spaces in lot R-5.  Are you a Friend of the Arboretum Member?  Don’t forget about our Member

Commonwealth Adds 68,000 New Jobs In August

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  9/19/20  Virginia employers created 68,000 jobs in August as the economy attempted to rebuild itself, said Joe Mengedoth, an economist with the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, citing Virginia Employment Commission data.The commonwealth lost a total of 440,000 jobs in March and April, but has now added back 188,000 jobs, or roughly 43% of the jobs lost, according to Mengedoth.“Just about every major industry sector in the state expanded in August,” he said.The largest growth

Secrets Of The Sea And Sky

Dynamic Aviation To Help With Effort To Find Amelia Earhart’s Final Resting PlaceBy IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  9/21/20  As a physical education teacher at Turner Ashby High School for more than 20 years, Cindy Ferek of Broadway watched and taught high schoolers to run laps.Now, as a certified flight instructor, Ferek teaches fl ying students to lap airports and everything else involved in the skill of controlling an aircraft.“Teaching was the only thing that was my passion, and now I’m teaching at 5,000

Broad Porch Coffee Co. Extending To Broader Area

By KATHLEEN SHAWDaily News-Record 9/16/20  During lazy summer days, Phil Duntemann would experimentally roast coffee beans on his porch. Within three years, those dog days of hobby roasting evolved into an operational cafe serving downtown Harrisonburg pedestrian traffic through Agora Market.Over the years, Broad Porch Coffee Co. has played an instrumental role in creating a homey feeling for patrons walking into Agora Market, greeting shoppers with a plethora of budding plants and the comforting aroma of

InterChange Takes Ownership Stake In Shenandoah Valley Railroad

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  9/17/20  Mount Crawford- based logistics, transportation and development firm InterChange Group became part owner of the Shenandoah Valley Railroad last week, according to Lance Arey, the general manager of the railway firm.Arey said InterChange Group’s addition to the railroad partnership will “definitely bring [opportunity] to the Valley and more movement of cars through here.”“It’s good to have them on board,” he said Wednesday.The 20.2 mile-long, privately owned

Pleasant View Executive Director Hopkins-Garriss To Retire In January

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  9/18/20  Involved, caring and a person of integrity are all words Elroy Miller used to describe Nancy Hopkins-Garriss.“She has been a remarkable director,” said Miller, former Pleasant View board president.For the last 35 years, Hopkins-Garriss has brought new life to Pleasant View and for the individuals who call it home. And while she has shared numerous experiences during her time serving as executive director, she is ready to share two more — Pleasant View’s 50th

Pilgrim’s To Invest $350K In Broadway, Timberville

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  9/18/20  As part of its Hometown Strong initiative, Pilgrim’s announced Tuesday it will invest $350,000 in Broadway and Timberville to support the communities.Projects that will be funded include upgrades to both of the towns’ parks, such as new playground equipment at Heritage Park in Broadway, and the construction of a basketball court, pickleball court and new complex building at the former pool area at Plains District Memorial Park in Timberville, according to a

Arts Council of the Valley Announces New Grants for COVID-Impacted Artists HARRISONBURG, VA

For Immediate Release September 11, 2020 Contact: Ann Leatherwood 540.801.8779 Ann@valleyarts.org Arts Council of the Valley Announces New Grants for COVID-Impacted Artists HARRISONBURG, VA – Arts Council of the Valley (ACV) has added a new funding category to its Fall 2020 Advancing the Arts grant application cycle. Designed to help area artists financially impacted by the pandemic, the new COVID-19 Artist Fund can cover revenue lost due to event cancellations, or help with expenses artists incur in

Rockingham County Small Business Grant Program - Round Three

Shenandoah Valley Technology Council and the Tech Nite 20 Nominees are...

              We're delighted to announce the Valley's best and brightest in the following 8 categories:         Innovation in Community Impact Award Supported by Rockingham Clerk of Circuit CourtGenerate ImpactHorizons Edge Sports CampusValley Makers Association  Innovation in Emerging Business Award Supported by GreeneHurlockerSproutly, LLCTraipse, Inc.  Innovation in Education K-12 Award >>Award

Horizons Learning Helping With Child Care Needs

By MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record  9/15/20  The need for quality child care that also adds an element of instruction is at all- time premium for area parents, as many are working while their children are learning virtually.Horizons Outdoor Learning Center north of Harrisonburg is here to help. Thanks to additional funding from Harrisonburg City Public Schools, the organization is also able to offer scholarships for students who need it.“It’s a neat partnership, and I’m glad the schools saw the value in

Area Development: 2020 Top States for Business

Walk To End Alzheimer’s Goes Virtual In October

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  9/3/20  It’s been more than a year since Michael Strawderman’s father, Ronnie, died from Alzheimer’s, and the memory of what the disease did to him is hard to forget.Ronnie’s driver’s license was taken away, and he forgot how to do the things he loved the most.“Alzheimer’s is the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States,” Michael Strawderman said.It is in Ronnie’s memory that Strawderman became involved with the Harrisonburg Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Feasibility Study for a shared-use Agricultural Enterprise Center in the Shenandoah Valley

 For Immediate Release Feasibility Study for a shared-use Agricultural Enterprise Center in the Shenandoah Valley Begins The Agricultural Enterprise Center Feasibility Study will determine if a certified, commercial, shared-use facility in the central Shenandoah Valley is possible, practical and viable. If brought to fruition, this multi-use facility is expected to support the region’s many small to mid-size agricultural businesses and entrepreneurs by expanding market reach and reducing some of the risk

Comprehensible, Not Comfortable – Part 1

Comprehensible, Not Comfortable – Part 1  Long before the pandemic, I wrestled with how many churches use their buildings.  Both as an architect and follower of Jesus, I don’t like the fact that many church buildings are fully used only several hours a week. Using church buildings for daycare, art galleries, after-school programs, soup kitchens, emergency shelters, etc. seems like better stewardship. The pandemic has served up stories of churches using classrooms, foyers, kitchens, and gyms in creative

Feasibility Study for a shared-use Agricultural Enterprise Center in the Shenandoah Valley Begins

The Agricultural Enterprise Center Feasibility Study will determine if a certified, commercial, shared-use facility in the central Shenandoah Valley is possible, practical and viable. If brought to fruition, this multi-use facility is expected to support the region’s many small to mid-size agricultural businesses and entrepreneurs by expanding market reach and reducing some of the risk and burden of facility building by any one operation. The study region includes the seven counties of Augusta, Bath,

Brown Edwards CEO named as one of Virginia’s most powerful leaders

Virginia Business magazine released the inaugural edition of the Virginia 500 – the 2020 PowerList. This list consists of the Commonwealth’s most powerful and influential corporate and community leaders by sector.  Brown Edwards is pleased to announce its CEO Jason Hartman is included in the Professional Services sector. Brown Edwards is the largest non-national, independent accounting firm in Virginia with additional offices in West Virginia and Tennessee. The firm is recognized as one of the country’s Top

F&M Bank Announces Top 10 in Local Business You Love Contest

F&M Bank Announces Top 10 in Local Business You Love Contest For Immediate Release | August 31, 2020 Earlier this summer, F&M Bank announced the Local Business You Love Contest, a $10,000 giveaway. Residents throughout the Shenandoah Valley nominated the local businesses they love and shared why they deserve $10,000. At the nomination deadline, 600 entries were received.   Now through September 11th, F&M Bank again needs the community’s help to determine the winner of the $10,000! Votes will be accepted

Membership Director Aims To Support Women’s Business Organizations

Armentrout Works To Grow Chamber RanksMembership Director Aims To Support Women’s Business OrganizationsBy IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  8/26/20  Growing up in the town of Shenandoah, Sheena Armentrout watched as her mother, Donna Cave, and her grandmother, Ruby Nicholson, ran a salon.“They started their own business. It was a successful business, and my mom stepped into the corporate world,” Armentrout said. “She did that as a single mom with a lot on her plate.”As Armentrout grew up and entered the

Rockingham County Fair Completes A Week Unlike Any Other

That’s A WrapRockingham County Fair Completes A Week Unlike Any OtherBy JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  8/24/20  The barns are empty and food booths closed for business as the Rockingham County Fair wrapped up another successful year, despite challenges of operating during a pandemic.“The agriculture fair we had truly went back to our roots,” said Rebecca Holloway, fair general manager. Throughout the week, the heart of Rockingham County was on full display as more than 200 4-H and FFA exhibitors

EMU announcing STAR Online

Now Announcing STAR Online!  Trauma can trap us in cycles of violence within ourselves and our communities. But it doesn't have to be that way. Individuals and communities can learn skills for addressing trauma, healing relationships, and building resilience to improve the well-being of all. STAR trainings are now offered online. Sign-up to join a training this fall! STAR brings together theory and practices from neurobiology, conflict transformation, human security, spirituality, and restorative justice

Business, Labor Lawyer Teaches Area Employers About New COVID-19 Regulations

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  8/21/20  Dozens of city and county residents learned about the commonwealth’s new temporary work standards during a webinar call with Courtney Malveaux, a Richmond lawyer with experience in labor and business law.Malveaux previously worked as Virginia’s Labor Commissioner and now co- leads the workplace safety and health group for law firm Jackson Lewis P.C.The event was organized and hosted by the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Chamber of Commerce in response to questions from

Brain Injury Support Group Reconnects With Clients

By KATHLEEN SHAWDaily News-Record  8/20/20  Jumping hurdles from the health and education systems is an endless mental and emotional exercise for Amanda Morris as she works to provide care for her 13- year- old son, James, who sustained an acquired brain injury from hypoxia. In the era of COVID-19, most support systems and resources have disappeared, but Morris said one organization has backed her and her family since day one.Brain Injury Connections of the Shenandoah Valley has provided online outlets and

Deep-Fried Delights

Food Sales A Lifeline For Remaining Booths At Rockingham County FairBy JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  8/18/20  For Rockingham County 4-H, operating the food booth at the Rockingham County Fair is its only source of fundraising and one of four booths to be open this year.“Without funds raised here, there is no money for scholarships or clubs,” said Austin Payne, co-chair of the Rockingham County 4-H Food Pavilion.The food booths at the county fair can be the largest fundraisers of the year for area

EMU Donors Set Up Tuition Assistance For Students

By MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record  8/18/20  When the COVID- 19 pandemic hit in early March, a lot of colleges and universities had to discuss whether to proceed with annual giving campaigns, on which they rely, or to pause given the uncertainty of the current climate.For Eastern Mennonite University, the decision was made to continue with campaigning, which included EMU’s LovEMU Day in April, which garnered record- breaking donations.Since then, campaigning has continued and because of it, EMU has been

Shenandoah Valley Airport Launches #SHDcares Initiative

https://flyshd.com/shdcares/Weyers Cave, Virginia, July 7, 2020 – The Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport (SHD) announces new procedures and terminal updates as an increased number of air travelers return to the skies. The #SHDcares program was developed with passenger safety and comfort in mind, following guidance from the CDC as well as experts in the aviation industry. “As passengers begin to resume travel we know that safety is at the forefront of their minds throughout the trip” says Greg Campbell,

City Rolls Out New Business Grant From CARES Act Funding

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  8/31/20  The city of Harrisonburg announced it would be giving out $750,000 worth of grants to businesses as part of a new program to support local employers and operations during the COVID-19 pandemic.“Our businesses have endured so much during this pandemic,” Brian Shull, the city’s economic development director,said in a press release. “I am thankful to City Council for allocating these funds to help Harrisonburg businesses cover some of their expenses during these

Brown Edwards Jumps Six Places on Inside Public Accounting’s Top 100 List

Brown Edwards Jumps Six Places on Inside Public Accounting’s Top 100 List    INSIDE Public Accounting (IPA) announces the release of its 2020 annual financial performance analysis and ranking of the nation’s largest public accounting firms.  Roanoke, Virginia based Brown Edwards again ranks among the nation’s Top 100 Firms, moving up six places to #81.  The rankings are based on 2019 U.S. net revenue.  IPA is the industry’s leading trade newsletter,  and the report is the most accurate listing of the

County Small Business Grant Opens Round Two

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  8/8/20  After altering the qualifications, a second round is opening for Rockingham County’s small business grant program starting Monday that will allow more small businesses to apply for COVID-19 relief funding.The grant program, approved by the Board of Supervisors on June 24, is funded by $500,000 the county received from the CARES Act and will be used to provide funds to support rent, mortgage payments, utility expenses, payroll and similar expenses for small

Grocery Store Raises Funds For Local Advocacy Group

By KATHLEEN SHAWDaily News-Record  8/8/20  Each quarter, Harrisonburg’s local grocery store dedicates two weeks to collecting proceeds to support local initiatives for change by asking customers to round up their total bill.Starting Sunday, Friendly City Food Co-op is running a Rounding Up the Register campaign for the Harriet Tubman Cultural Center until Aug. 22.The Harriet Tubman Cultural Center is an educational and advocacy organization named after the early 19th-century escaped enslaved person who

Quilt Museum Celebrates Anniversary With Collection

By KATHLEEN SHAWDaily News-Record  8/11/20  For 25 years, Virginia Quilt Museum has attracted international craft lovers to Harrisonburg with a diverse range of both locally crafted and globally revered quilt-related collections of art.In an era of isolation and closed borders, Virginia Quilt Museum is celebrating its silver anniversary this month with several online activities and a new collection of textiles for locals to explore.Sandy Maxfield is on the board of directors and has volunteered for over

Stuff The Bus Goes Virtual

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  8/4/20  For the last 15 years, United Way of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County has been bringing school supplies to area children through its annual Stuff the Bus campaign. But with the COVID-19 pandemic still raging, Stuff the Bus has moved its location.For 10 days beginning Thursday, United Way will be accepting only monetary donations in place of physical items this year. The fundraiser will also be held online, with donations being accepted through United Way of

33 County Small Businesses Receive Grant Funding

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  7/31/20  When Stacy Rose, owner of Thunderbird Cafe and Hank’s Grille and Catering, was told his businesses were one of the 33 recipients of funding from the Rockingham County Small Business Grant program, the joy in his voice was evident.“This is great,” he said. “I feel very fortunate to receive this.”As the owner of two restaurants, Rose saw firsthand the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on the food service industry.For 10 weeks, Thunderbird Cafe was unable to serve

Anicira Receives ‘Gold Standard’ Accreditation

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  7/30/20  An accreditation from the American Animal Hospital Association is one only 15% of small- animal hospitals in the United States and Canada have received, and Harrisonburg is home to two accredited veterinaries.Anicira Veterinary Center has recently received an accreditation from the association after going though an extensive review process and evaluated on more than 900 quality standards that go “above and beyond state regulations and determined our practices

InterChange Group To Expand Solar Panel Use

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  7/28/20  InterChange Group announced Friday that its newest cold storage warehouse in Mount Crawford will expand its use of solar panels by the end of 2020 and become home to the industry’s largest solar power system in Virginia.Erik Curren, marketing adviser for Secure Futures Solar, said InterChange Group signed an agreement with the Staunton- based solar energy firm to install and operate the solar panel expansion at the facility.Curren said in an email that cold

EDA To Review Small Business Grant Applications

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record 7/28/20  Rockingham County’s small business grant review team will start to review applications received for the COVID-19 small business grant program in preparation for the county’s economic development authority meeting Thursday, according to Josh Gooden.Gooden, economic development and tourism coordinator for the county, said there were 52 applications received by the Friday deadline, but not all applicants qualified due to some businesses being located in

Rockingham County Fair Trims Schedule, Highlights Ag Roots

BACK TO BASICSRockingham County Fair Trims Schedule, Highlights Ag RootsBy IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  7/24/20  Though there will be no carnival at this year’s Rockingham County Fair, that doesn’t mean the fair’s board had an easy ride in coming to a decision on the event during the COVID-19 pandemic.“It’s definitely been like a roller coaster,” said Rebecca Holloway, fair general manager. “We’re just happy that we can provide something the safest way we can do it.”The Rockingham County Fair Association

MLDA Announces Expansion Club, Virginia Skyline Soccer

HARRISONBURG, Va (July 23, 2020) — The Major League Development Association (MLDA) continued their efforts to connect soccer communities across Virginia on Monday, as the MLDA announced the formation of expansion club, Virginia Skyline Soccer based in Harrisonburg, VA and serving the Shenandoah Valley Area.  Virginia Skyline Soccer joins Virginia Beach City FC as the second club under the MLDA shield in Virginia. The MLDA is dedicated to delivering accessible levels of participation, enjoyment, and growth

Spend Summer with VPM Classroom

Shenandoah Hemp Supply Opens In Downtown Harrisonburg

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  7/18/20  Harrisonburg is welcoming a new business as Shenandoah Hemp Supply held its grand opening Friday at the Agora Downtown Market, celebrating its second store location within one year.Shenandoah Hemp Supply, which started in Waynesboro, specializes in bringing locally grown hemp to consumers through a variety of products, including lotion, clothes and CBD oil items.Owners Lee and Amber Magalis were able to commemorate the grand opening with the Harrisonburg-

First Bank & Trust Company Commercial Division Continues to Grow

Johnathan B. ComerJuly 16, 2020 Harrisonburg, Virginia Jonathan B. Comer is the latest to join the commercial lending team at First Bank & Trust Company in Harrisonburg, Virginia.  Comer has thirteen years of experience, primarily from Blue Ridge Bank, formerly The Page Valley Bank, where he began his career in 2007. Prior to his time with Blue Ridge, Comer worked as an intern at Scott & Stringfellow in Harrisonburg. At First Bank & Trust Company, he works with business and commercial clients to

SVEC’s Operation Round Up Supports Area Organizations

ROCKINGHAM – In its latest round of giving, Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative’s Operation Round Up Committee awarded $18,500 in 11 grants to area organizations.   Operation Round Up is the cooperative’s charitable giving program. A committee of nine members and one cooperative employee review grant applications from nonprofits, schools and civic organizations, awarding those it feels are most deserving of financial support.   Funds for Operation Round Up come from all co-op members who voluntarily

Ben Cline Awarded 2020 U.S. Chamber of Commerce Spirit of Enterprise Award

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce announced this week that select legislators have received the 2020 Spirit of Enterprise Award. This award recognizes a legislator’s commitment to supporting pro-business legislation, bipartisan leadership, and constructive governing. “I am honored to be named a recipient of the 2020 Spirit of Enterprise Award for my legislative record. One of my top priorities in Congress is to foster a business environment where an entrepreneur with the right ideas and motivation can succeed

SVEC Names New President and Chief Executive Officer

ROCKINGHAM – Effective today, the Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative Board of Directors is pleased to announce Greg Rogers as the organization’s new President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). He is the seventh leader in the Cooperative’s 84-year history.   Rogers has more than 30 years of experience in the electric utility industry. He has spent the last decade at SVEC, where he was most recently Vice President and Chief Operations Officer.   “We have every confidence that his steady hand,

Rockingham County Surpasses 2010 Census Response Rate

JUNE 26, 2020 – The latest response rates for the 2020 Census show that Rockingham County has exceeded its 2010 Census response rate. So far 68.2% of households in Rockingham have responded to the 2020 Census, including 46.2%% through the online questionnaire, surpassing the total 2010 Census self-response rate of 66.8%.The City of Harrisonburg is making progress toward reaching its 2010 rate with 60.9% of households that have responded so far in comparison with 65.1% in the last decennial census. A

Virginia Super Lawyers, Rising Stars Names Four Wharton Aldhizer & Weaver PLC Attorneys to their Annual Lists

July 1, 2020Four Wharton Aldhizer & Weaver PLC attorneys have been named VirginiaSuper Lawyer/Rising Stars for 2020.  Three attorneys were named Super Lawyers, which is an annual publication only selecting five percent of the attorneys in the state to be included in their select list.  WAW also had one attorney named to the Rising Stars list.  Rising Stars are attorneys under the age of 40 or in practice for 10 years or less.  2020 Super Lawyers:  DANIEL L. FITCH -  Civil Litigation  CHARLES F. HILTON -

Blueline - Amplify Workshop

Pale Fire Helps Ends Season Of Giving

By KATHLEEN SHAWDaily News-Record  6/29/20  At the peak of pandemic news infiltrating day-to-day life, marked by toilet paper’s elevated status to a precious commodity and a sudden national craze for Netflix docu-series “Tiger King,” life was, in short, weird. Rather than fold its cards and hunker down to conspire if Carole Baskin killed her husband, the Pale Fire Brewing team dedicated its closed-down taproom into a food bank for service employees on reduced and cut hours.By mid-March, Pale Fire Helps was

City Will Forgive Loans To Local Businesses

DN-R News Desk     6/24/20  Almost two dozen Harrisonburg businesses that borrowed money from the city to help weather the COVID-19 storm won’t need to pay it back.City Council voted Tuesday to forgive $105,000 worth of loans distributed among 22 local businesses through the Disaster Impact Loan Program, which was establishedon March 19.Under the program, businesses could borrow up to $5,000 in an interest-free loan, to be paid back beginning July 1.But Chris Brown, city attorney, said Harrisonburg

Great Community Give Aims To Raise $600K

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  6/22/20  For the last two years, local nonprofits have turned to the community for a day of online fundraising, known as the Great Community Give. But during the year of the COVID-19 pandemic and budget cuts, this year’s day of giving, set for Wednesday, is more crucial than ever.“Nonprofits are really needing the funding this year,” said Revlan Hill, executive director of The Community Foundation of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County, which hosts the Great Community

Truist Gives $100K Grant To Food Bank

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  6/10/20  For the last two months, the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank has been working to provide food boxes for individuals in need during the COVID- 19 pandemic, and a hefty grant from Truist Financial Corp. will allow it to serve more people.As part of its national philanthropic pledge to support basic needs, medical supplies and financial hardship relief, the Truist Financial Corp. announced Tuesday that it would commit to an additional $25 million in support to those in

Getting Virginia Back To Work - Virginia Chamber

A Message from the Virginia Chamber Currently, our country and our commonwealth face two crises at once: a health crisis due to the COVID-19 pandemic and an economic crisis due to the shutdown of business in response to the pandemic. Ideally, we would end the economic crisis by ending the health crisis. However, we know that the necessary steps to end the health crisis will take time – developing, approving, and distributing a vaccine could take over a year. We know that it is unfeasible to keep the

Art Sign Fundraiser Brings In $2,600

DNR 6/3/20   Arts Council of the Valley, Rockingham Fine Arts Association and Riner Rentals’ colorful, collaborative fundraiser for local artists and health care workers, # artfeltTHANKS, sold 105 signs before the first press run today. Partnering graphics from several regional artists together behind a masked silhouette, the signs are designed to be displayed in yards as a salute to frontline workers. Half the total revenue of sign sales is being split between participating artists, who also received

Broadway, Bridgewater Named Safest Cities

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  6/4/20  Rockingham County is home to the top two safest cities in Virginia, and it became official May 27.SafeWise, a safety- focused community organization, recently released its list of the state’s 20 safest cities and towns for 2020, with Broadway ranked No. 1 and Bridgewater following at No. 2.In 2019, Broadway was ranked at No. 10 due to an increase in violent crimes compared to previous years.“We’ve always hovered in the top five of the list fortunately, [ but] in

Cargill, Danone Donate Tens Of Thousands To Response Fund

DNR 6/5/20   Two companies have made “generous gifts” to the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Community Fund, according to an email from Revlan Hill, the executive director of The Community Foundation. Cargill, a poultry processing firm with facilities in Rockingham, donated $150,000, while Danone North America, a dairy firm with a facility in Mount Crawford, donated $20,000. The Harrisonburg-Rockingham Community Response Fund is jointly run by United Way of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County and the

Safer at home: phase two guidelines for all business sectors - Physical Distancing Best Practices:

Safer at home: phase two guidelines for all business sectors  Physical Distancing Best Practices:   Establish policies and practices for physical distancing between co-workers and between members of the public. (See sector-specific guidelines below for more detailed information on public engagement.)   Provide clear communication and signage for physical distancing in areas where individuals may congregate, especially at entrances, in seating areas, and in check-out lines.   Limit the occupancy of

Flyover To Honor Front-Line Workers

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News- Record 5/30/20  Back in its day, the Douglas C-47 was considered one of the key components in winning World War II and saw extensive use in aviation from military to corporate.Today, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the aircraft will play a vital role in honoring front- line workers. The C-47 military transport aircraft and a 1959 Beech 18 will fly at approximately 12:15 p.m. as part of Dynamic Aviation’s “Salute to Our Heroes” flyover.“[The flyover] is a historic way of

Food Bank Fills Need For COVID-19 Patients

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  5/30/20  The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank has teamed up with three Shenandoah Valley health-care groups to provide food boxes to individuals who were hospitalized or in self-isolation due to COVID-19 and are financially vulnerable during the pandemic.“Partnering with local health-care organizations provides a perfect opportunity to meet the nutritional needs of COVID-affected patients before they go home to self-isolate,” said Maria Bowman, programs manager at the Food

Signs Of Reopening Across Country

By COLIN MCGUIRESpecial to the DN-R 6/1/20  While the national toll for deaths related to COVID-19 eclipsed 100,000 last week, states across the country currently find themselves in various stages of their respective reopening plans, which has proven to be a sign of optimism that the outbreak is trending in a positive direction.  VirginiaVirginia is in Phase 1 of its “safe at home” plan, which means that retail stores can open with restrictions, restaurants may open for outdoor seating or takeout, and

Iconic Plane Leads Flyover To Honor Those On Front Lines Of COVID-19 Fight

LOUD AND CLEARIconic Plane Leads Flyover To Honor Those On Front Lines Of COVID-19 FightBy JIM SACCODaily News-Record  6/1/20  BRIDGEWATER — There she sits — sleek and shiny in all her metal glory.And Rod Moyer can’t help himself, he just has to smile.“She’s iconic,” he says, keeping with the old- school tradition of referring to planes with feminine pronouns.“They’ve always been ladies,” he says. “You just treat them with respect and you treat them with honor and they’ll take care of you.” At

Governor Orders Mask Use In Stores, Public Spaces

DNR 5/27/20  RICHMOND ( AP) — Gov. Ralph Northam is ordering that Virginians wear masks while in public indoor spaces, saying the measure is needed to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus.Northam said at a news conference Tuesday that he’s ordering masks be worn starting Friday inside all retail stores, while using public transportation, and in any other indoor places where people congregate.“This is about protecting those around us, especially our workers,” Northam said.Northam joins governors in

F&M Bank Provided $60M in PPP Loans for 600 Local Businesses Impacted by COVID-19

MEDIA CONTACTSNICOLE SWANN, ICBA nicole.swann@icba.orgKELSEY DEAN, F&M BANK kwdean@fmbankva.comTimberville, VA (May 26, 2020)—F&M Bank announced today that it has processed more than 600 loans totaling  approximately $60 million under the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to help local small businesses support payroll and related costs, saving numerous jobs within the Shenandoah Valley. The average loan size was approximately $95K as of May 26, 2020. The PPP, which

Yard Signs Feature Local Artwork To Benefit RMH Foundation, Artists

By KATHLEEN SHAWDaily News-Record  5/21/20    Arts Council of the Valley and Rockingham Fine Arts Association are collaborating with Riner Rentals on a fundraiser to paint the town with abstract images of health care employees as a salute to those on the front lines while raising money for both artists and essential workers.Twenty artists from the Valley are participating in #artfelt-THANKS, a creative effort that fuses the work of two artists in a yard sign that are being sold for $25 each with half the

Shenandoah National Park To Reopen

DNR 5/22/20    On Saturday, Shenandoah National Park will begin its phased reopening with Skyline Drive and some trails becoming accessible to visitors at 8 a. m.The drive and trails will remain open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. with normal entry fees, according to the park’s website.During the first phase, trails associated with Old Rag and Whiteoak — along with boundary trailheads and picnic areas — will remain closed.

News Release: 5/21/2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 21, 2020                            ​Contact: ​Ann Leatherwood 540.801.8779 Ann@valleyarts.org    Arts Council of the Valley to Suspend Court Square Theater Operations    HARRISONBURG, VA – The Arts Council of the Valley (ACV) Board of Directors has decided to suspend operations of its Court Square Theater for at least one year, beginning July 1, 2020. The theater has been closed since mid-March in response to the coronavirus pandemic.  ACV was notified in mid-April that the

Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative Warns of Scams

ROCKINGHAM – Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative advises members to be aware of scam calls in which callers are demanding payment immediately or else threatening that power will be shut off.    The cooperative would like to remind members that our employees will never call members and demand immediate payment by phone. In one recent example of a reported scam, the caller tried to pressure a member into paying money because the member supposedly had an old meter installed.   Another indication that a

Sunnyside Names New Executive Director

 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    May 18, 2020      ​​CONTACT: Karen Wigginton - Chief Marketing Officer - 540-568-8518          kwigginton@sunnyside.cc    Sunnyside Names New Executive Director    HARRISONBURG, VA – The president & CEO of Sunnyside Communities, Josh Lyons, has announced the appointment of Charlotte Sibold as executive director of Sunnyside Retirement Community.  Sibold will begin her new role in mid-June.    An experienced senior living professional, Sibold comes to Sunnyside from Kendal

The mountains and rivers are open!

We are delighted that Governor Northam has given the green light for much of Virginia to move into Phase I of Virginia Strong.  At WILD GUYde Adventures, we are ready to go with our Rock Climbing, Paddling, and Hiking options ("open air").  We are temporarily suspending Wild Caving, since that is considered "enclosed space."  So if your family has exhausted your living room and local park activity options, consider spending a half or full day outdoors in the wildness and sunshine with us!Rock Climbing and

Back In Business

Service Industry Reopens With Cautious OptimismBy KATHLEEN SHAWDaily News-Record  5/15/20  No longer is sitting on the patio sipping a margarita or savoring a hot bed of fries on the wooden deck a pipeline dream. Grab your sunscreen and ask for a table under the patio umbrella because beginning today, May 15, some dining and drinking establishments are reopening to allow outdoor patronage.After nearly two months of businesses serving strictly to-go and delivery, Gov. Ralph Northam’s “ Phase One” of

Red Wing Roots Music Festival Canceled

By KATHLEEN SHAWDaily News-Record  5/15/20  Set against cascades of limestone chimneys and bathed in pine, each summer, Mount Solon is freckled by pitched tents as root music lovers gather and strangers become friends at Red Wing Roots Music Festival.From dusk to dawn, those three days under the Red Wing Roots Music Festival sun bring endless tunes twiddling in the air across the music meadow, but this summer will echo with the silence of thousands missing in its fields.Months ago, the idea of the festival

Valley Airport Projects Advancing

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  5/15/20  WEYERS CAVE — Expansion projects are ready for takeoff at Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport as the airport commission approved accepting a grant offer worth close to $2 million and awarding a contract for construction of a taxiway and aircraft hangar facility.During Wednesday’s commission meeting, members voted to accept a grant offer of $ 1.9 million from the Federal Aviation Administration for the taxiway and hangar apron project.“This project was

‘We’re Going To Learn A Lot’

City Staff Looking For Ways To Help Local Businesses During Phase OneBy IAN MUNRODaily News-Record         5/15/20  As Harrisonburg restaurants open today and into the weekend, city staff is using the time to gauge what steps they can take to increase visits to local businesses, according to Brian Shull, the city’s director of economic development.“I think we’ll learn a lot over the weekend [ about] just how many people are ready to come out and try it,” Shull said. “The customer will be the final

500K Masks Reach The Valley

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record 5/14/20  As a truck pulled into TSSI Inc. on Wednesday, staff was excited. Not for the simple arrival of a tractor trailer, but about what was inside.“It was like Christmas this morning,” said Kristi Strang, vice president of vendor relations.Within the trailer was 500,000 KN95 masks the company ordered weeks ago, which finally found their way stateside from China.Over one in 10 of the masks will go to roughly 30 local organizations, including nursing homes, first responders

Northam Details Reopening Plan, Says It Will Be Cautious

DNR 5/9/20  RICHMOND (AP) — Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam is laying out his plans for reopening the state next week amid the coronavirus pandemic, cautioning that the process will be gradual and many restrictions will remain in place for at least several more weeks.“We are not flipping a light switch from closed to open,” Northam said. “When the time is right we will turn a dimmer switch up just a notch.”The governor said at a Friday news conference that his planned reopening — currently set for May 15 —

Mother’s Day Provides Steady Sales For Businesses

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record 5/9/20  Abby Chick and her staff at Blakemore’s Flowers are used to fulfilling hundreds of orders during Mother’s Day weekend, but typically with a staff of more than a dozen.In 2019, the Harrisonburg flower shop made $ 20,000 in sales, Chick said, and as of Wednesday already surpassed that mark — all with only five employees.Due to COVID- 19, Chick had to enforce stricter protocols when designing and delivering flowers, which led her to the decision not to hire outside

Wingfield’s Memorial Day Celebration Postponed

By PETE DELEADaily News-Record  5/8/20  For the last seven years, thousands of Shenandoah Valley residents spent Memorial Day at the Rockingham County Fairgrounds to pay tribute to veterans and first responders.But with Gov. Ralph Northam’s stay- at- home order to help combat the spread of COVID-19, the annual tradition is being postponed from May 25 to Labor Day, Sept. 7.The event is hosted by Steve Wingfield Evangelistic Association and several local churches and businesses.“I’m disappointed but there’s

City, County Host T-Shirt Fundraiser

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  5/6/20  In an effort to continue offering grants for local businesses struggling during the COVID- 19 pandemic, Harrisonburg and Rockingham County have joined together to offer a “Rock Strong” T-shirt fundraiser to raise money for the Resilience Grant Fund.In March, the Harrisonburg-Rockingham COVID-19 Business Support Taskforce was formed to coordinate resources for local businesses. In early April, the task force awarded 25 grants totaling $65,000 to small businesses

Nationwide Church Effort Sends 40,000 Pounds Of Donations To Food Bank

‘Ready To Deliver’Nationwide Church Effort Sends 40,000 Pounds Of Donations To Food BankBy KATHLEEN SHAWDaily News-Record  4/29/20  For the average family, pasta, canned vegetables and cartons of dairy are timeless shopping list staples kept tucked away on reserve for a go-to lunch or dinner. On food bank shelves, the nutritious and nonperishable goods are priceless supplies to feed those struggling to put a full meal on the table.On Tuesday morning as the sun crept over the mountains, a 53-foot

City, County Name New 911 Director

By PETE DELEADaily News-Record  4/29/20  Harrisonburg and Rockingham County tapped a dispatch assistant manager for the Milwaukee Fire Department as the new director of the Harrisonburg- Rockingham Emergency Communications Center, according to a Tuesday press release.Courtney Doberstein, a 20year veteran of 911 telecommunications, will start on June 15.“ One of the reasons I was attracted to this position is because I operate collaboratively, and was really drawn in and felt a shared vision as I researched

Large Orders Poured In To Keep Shirley’s Running

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  4/29/20  Lisa and Rob Roeschley were getting ready to close the doors to Shirley’s Gourmet Popcorn in downtown Harrisonburg when they received a call from manufacturer Danone North America, which wanted to place an order for popcorn.The lights were turned off, and the store was cleaned and ready to be closed for the foreseeable future as other Shirley stores also closed shop.But when Danone North America called that evening, it wasn’t just placing an order for a few

Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative Awards Scholarships 2020

ROCKINGHAM – Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative (SVEC) has selected 10 high school seniors as recipients of $1,000 scholarships.   The cooperative’s Operation Round Up Committee recognized the following students:   Sabrina Bauserman, Strasburg, daughter of Ronald and Laura BausermanMorgan Brown, Broadway, daughter of Steven and Cathy BrownJazmin Correa Ortega, Spotswood, daughter of Pedro Correa and Cecilia OrtegaKaitlyn Gray, Stuarts Draft, daughter of Karen and Lance GrayRyder Faunce, Wilson

Nature Lovers Find Way To Celebrate 50th Earth Day

By KATHLEEN SHAWDaily News-Record  4/22/20  Fifty years ago on this day, the nation celebrated the first Earth Day as a homage to Mother Nature and in recognition of environmental action. To commemorate the historical milestone, the streets bear no marchers or celebrations, but within their homes, nature lovers are finding ways to recognize the holiday’s anniversary during the pandemic.Whether stepping away from technology for a pensive hour of reflection or decorating the yard with vibrant, empowering

AWARD-WINNING DIRECTOR OF SALES JOINS JACKSON HOTEL MANAGEMENT

Industry professional brings regional and national sales experience  Harrisonburg, VA (April 21, 2020) Leading hospitality management company Jackson Hotel Management is proud to welcome Mary Bayer as its new Corporate Director of Sales. Bayer brings more than 25-years of sales experience to the company’s corporate staff.  Prior to joining Jackson Hotel Management, Bayer served as Director of Sales of the award-winning Holiday Inn & Suites Front Royal Blue Ridge Shadows and Regional Director of Sales for

Local Wineries Get Innovative During Stay-At-Home Order

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  4/11/20  The tasting rooms may be empty, but the wine is still flowing as COVID-19 has put local wineries in the Valley to the test to see how they can get their products to customers who can’t step foot inside their stores.When social- distancing guidelines were put in place, Bluestone Vineyard and Cross-Keys Vineyards were quick to implement curbside pickup and delivery options for customers in order to keep their businesses going.“The business has been tremendously

Drive-Thru Opens At Farmers Market

By PETE DELEADaily News-Record  4/13/20  For Curtis and Judith Yankey, the Harrisonburg Farmers Market has been their family’s lifeline for eight years.The couple, who own North Mountain Produce, peddle produce grown on their 10-acre farm near Timberville.From asparagus and collard greens to potatoes and onions, selling produce to market shoppers helps the Yankeys make a living.But due to the COVID- 19 pandemic, sales came to a screeching halt two weeks ago as the farmers market closed to adhere to

Thousands Taking Advantage Of RCPS Meal Program

By MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record  4/7/20  Nine schools in Rockingham County are being used as meal pickup sites twice a week since students were told they would not be returning to the classroom in mid- March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.After offering meals every day during the first week of March 16, Rockingham County Public Schools has gone to a twice weekly pick-up where a number of meals can be given out all at once, said Gerald Lehman, director of food service for the school division.Since then,

Anicira To Offer Drive-Thru Pet Food Pantry During Virus

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  4/10/20  When Anicira started its pet food pantry 11 years ago, it was to make sure cats and dogs don’t go hungry. Since then, the nonprofit veterinary organization has grown to serve 75 families a month, and the need for pet food is growing.Due to pay cuts, job losses and furloughs in response to the economic impact of COVID-19, Katie Nicholson, marketing and communications manager for Anicira, said the number of people the organization serves is only expected to

County Reviews COVID-19 Response Act

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  4/10/20  The Rockingham County Board of Supervisors discussed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act to bring awareness for those facing a leave of absence due to COVID-19 at its meeting Wednesday.The federal law requires certain employers to provide employees with paid sick leave and expanded family and medical leave for reasons related to COVID-19, and it applies for anytime from April 1 to Dec. 31.Jennifer Mongold, director of human resources for the county,

Ogden Establishes $1M Fund To Help Local Businesses Recover

DN-R Staff Report    3/28/20  Harrisonburg and Rockingham County businesses can now apply for a grant to help them recover from the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. Ogden Newspapers Inc., the parent company of the Daily News-Record, has established a $1 million fund to help local businesses get back to full strength by subsidizing local marketing efforts through matching grants.“We understand that many of our local businesses and our longtime advertising partners are hurting; we’re hurting, too,”

Cheers For Virtual RACING

By KATHLEEN SHAWDaily News-Record  3/28/20  On Friday night, Alysia Davis laid out her 8-year-old daughter’s yoga mat and miniature kettle bells so together they could work out. Social-distancing has meant increased family time across the globe and, together, households in the Valley shared a drink and a workout yesterday for a virtual Run, Sweat & Beers race.For years, VA Momentum has hosted Run, Sweat & Beers every fourth Friday of the month from March to September to run 1, 3 or 5 miles at no charge and

Anonymous Donor Will Match Up To $20,000 For Virus Fund

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  4/2/20  An anonymous donor has offered to match up to $20,000 worth of donations to The Community Foundation of Harrisonburg and Rockingham, according to Revlan Hill, the executive director.That means another $40,000 could quickly be raised for the Harrisonburg- Rockingham Community Response Fund, she said. The fund, which was established more than a week ago, is jointly run by United Way of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County and the foundation to raise money for those who

Retirement Community Gives Thanks To Service Workers

By KATHLEEN SHAWDaily News-Record  4/2/20  Behind the meticulous lawns, a landscaping team; behind the stocked cafeteria, a truck driver delivering crates of food. Every day, countless workers keep life running at Sunnyside Retirement Community during the COVID-19 pandemic, so residents decided to share a thumbs-up in recognition of their hard work.The photo series was snapped by artist and resident Mary Rouse last week while walking along the campus with a camera in hand. Observing those coming in and out

Town Suspends Meals Tax, Trash Fees

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record 4/3/20  BROADWAY — Starting today, Broadway will be temporarily suspending its meals tax and trash fees to assist the town’s residents and business owners during the COVID-19 pandemic.Both measures will be effective until July 31 unless extended by the Town Council.Through a Facebook post on March 25, the town announced it would take action on the items during a council meeting Thursday. Council members were spaced out to comply with social distancing guidelines.Council

The Department Of Labor Published Guidance On The Families First Coronavirus Response Act – Key Take

The Department Of Labor Published Guidance On The Families First Coronavirus Response Act – Key Take Since the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (the “FFCRA”) was enacted, the Department of Labor (“DOL”) published guidance for employers to understand their obligations under this new unprecedented legislation. A summary of the provisions of the FFCRA affecting employers can be found in our earlier blog post titled: The Newly Enacted Families First Coronavirus Response Act: What Does it Mean for

Part 2: The Small Business Exemption And Other Key Takeaways For Employers From Updated Guidance On The Families First Coronavirus Response Act

Part 2: The Small Business Exemption And Other Key Takeaways For Employers From Updated Guidance On The Families First Coronavirus Response Act Authors: Lauren R. DardenPartner 540.438.5377 ldarden@wawlaw.comView Bio  Ashley H. WaterburyAssociate 540.438.5332 awaterbury@wawlaw.comView Bio On March 28, 2020, the Department of Labor (“DOL”) published further guidance on certain provisions of the paid sick leave and expanded FMLA provisions of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (“FFCRA”), which

A Public Service Announcement from Your Chamber of Commerce : An Important Message to Employers in Our Community about COVID-19

Recently, the local Health Department and Sentara RMH Medical Center have received calls from people in the community stating that their employers are telling them they cannot return to work, following a period of absence due to sickness, until the employee can provide proof that they do not have the COVID-19 virus. While we understand and appreciate the efforts of local employers to be diligent in helping prevent the spread of the coronavirus, both in their workplaces and in the community at large, neither

Local Markets ‘Providing Service To The Community’

Grocers’ GrindLocal Markets ‘Providing Service To The Community’By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  3/26/20  Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Steve Cooke, the general manager of Friendly City Food Co-op, would listen to National Public Radio during his commute to Harrisonburg from his home in Augusta County.But since, Cooke said he has shifted to listening to his favorite bands, such as Allison Krauss and The Allman Brothers Band, during the drive to raise his spirits.Cooke and his staff are some of the millions

First Responders Implement Safety Protocols

By PETE DELEADaily News-Record  3/21/20  For many of the firefighters and emergency medical technicians in the Harrisonburg area, the COVID-19 pandemic isn’t their first rodeo.Harrisonburg Fire Chief Ian Bennett and Rockingham County Fire Chief Jeremy Holloway said first responders have dealt with the H1N1 virus in 2009 and the Ebola virus in 2014.While the new coronavirus is more widespread in the United States than the other two were, first responders treat it the same way.“We have protocols in place to

Rockingham Cooperative To Celebrate 100 Years

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  3/23/20  When C.V. Smith became the first employee and general manager of the Rockingham Cooperative Farm Bureau, now Rockingham Cooperative, operations of the company were vastly different than today.He worked from a borrowed desk, took out personal loans and helped save members hundreds of dollars.It was what started then with only two employees, Smith and Elmer B. Kaylor, and annual revenue of $17,495 that has led the Rockingham Cooperative to celebrate nearly 100

National Agriculture Week Celebrates Community

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  3/24/20  Rockingham County is home to the top agricultural producers in Virginia and this week, producers and farmers across the commonwealth will be recognized nationwide.From Sunday through Saturday, the United States will celebrate the contributions of agriculture through the National Agriculture Week created by the Agriculture Council of America. National Agriculture Day will also be celebrated today.The ACA is nonprofit that provides planning information and

County Fair A Year-Round Affair

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  3/25/20  From the moment the carnival lights come down and the last Mc-Gaheysville Ruritan funnel cake is served, plans for the next Rockingham County Fair have begun.Going on 71 years, the Rockingham County Fair brings together local organizations, civic groups and community members for a week of celebrating the agriculture community and classic fair fun every August.But planning for next year’s fair starts before the current year’s fair ends.“[Planning for the fair

Businesses GoGreen

By KATHLEEN SHAWDaily News-Record  3/14/20  You might not get pinched, but green is in fashion this weekend as various venues kick off the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations early today.From 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., Old Hill Cider is bringing back the feel of fall with its staple apple cider donuts, granny smith apples coated in caramel and a tasting room exclusive, honey ginger hard cider, available by glass or growler. The holiday cider-maker’s special uses local honey, fresh ginger and Showalter Orchard

Build-Your-Own Pizza Place Coming To Penn Laird

By MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record 3/12/20  PENN LAIRD — When Jay Roderick got out of the Navy, he got a job near his hometown of Broadway at Merck.From there he began climbing the corporate ladder at various companies across the country, finally reaching the position of chief operating officer at a company called Gemini Bio-Products in Sacramento, Calif. But what he found when he “reached the top” was that he was beholden to those above him and unable to give his employees what he wanted and what he

It’s A Bird! It’s A Plane! No, It’s Aviation Fun Day!

By KATHLEEN SHAWDaily News-Record  3/12/20  WEYERS CAVE — Over 500 racers are jetting down to Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport this Sunday for Run the Runway 5K and Aviation Fun Day.For the third year, the Weyers Cave airport and Explore More Discovery Museum in Harrisonburg have partnered to raise funds for the museum’s aviation exhibit.Participants prepare for takeoff at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday with a 1K Fun Run for children ages 3 to 12. The later 5K invites runners of all ages to follow the colorful

New Things Happening At Massanutten Resort

DNR 3/12/20    Just because the slopes have closed at Massanutten Resort for the season does not mean big things aren’t happening as the resort looks to the spring and summer months.One new activity is called “Have Your Cake and Eat it Too.” This will take place on Tuesday from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Conference Center lower level. It is for ages 8 and up and costs $25. Attendees will learn cake decorating techniques from the resort’s pastry chefs.Participants will learn the steps and procedures as they

Bridgewater Gets A Dose Of Whiz

By KATHLEEN SHAWDaily News-Record  3/11/20  BRIDGEWATER — Urgie’s Cheesesteaks’ Bridgewater location celebrated its ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday afternoon to commemorate more whiz in the Valley.Formerly Jalapeno Southwest Grill, the location in Generations Park is an expansion of the Urgie’s in Harrisonburg both in size and menu. All classic entree items such as the hattrick and pierogies remain on the menu, but joining the traditional Philadelphia-inspired flavors are stuffed peppers, burgers and

Taste Of Downtown Kicks Off Next Week

A Hunger For HarrisonburgTaste Of Downtown Kicks Off Next WeekBy KATHLEEN SHAWDaily News-Record  3/4/20  Taste of Downtown is a weeklong opportunity for gluttony and flavor to take the wheel in a showcase of Harrisonburg’s dining options.For 12 years, the biannual event has celebrated the culinary craftsmanship of the city and worked to stimulate the market during off-seasons, according to Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance. Jeslyn Stiles, director of marketing for HDR, organized the week for the first time

Chamber Of Commerce Event Explores Workplace Diversity

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  3/5/20  Over 100 guests attended the second Diversity in Business event hosted by the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Chamber of Commerce at the Lucy F. Simms Center, according to Chris Jones, a city councilman and member of the chamber’s diversity council.“The more we understand diversity in the workplace and diversity in business, the more it will help to fulfill the employment needs of a diverse workforce and help to fulfill the employment gaps in business,” Jones said. “We need

Say ‘Snow Long, Winter’ At Massanutten Snow Moon Fest

By KATHLEEN SHAWDaily News-Record  3/5/20  MASSANUTTEN — Massanutten Resort’s third annual Snow Moon Fest returns to the slopes with more lights, color and fun this weekend.In 2018, the resort hosted the first festival as an anniversary commemorating its opening in 1972. Now, the returning family-friendly fun and mischief is a way to ring in spring and reminisce the end of winter.Traditions of the festival include fundraisers 4K on the Fairway and the arctic plunge.4K on the Fairway is a race to benefit

SVO To Create ‘Secure Complex’ at Massanutten, North Liberty Streets

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  3/7/20  Shenandoah Valley Organic purchased two parcels of land adjacent to its site on North Liberty and Massanutten streets in Harrisonburg, according to Corwin Heatwole, the CEO, and city documents.In the $850,000 January deal between Shenandoah Valley Organic and JWK Land LLC, the poultry processing company bought 715 Massanutten St. and 744 Massanutten St.“Most importantly, what this property did for us was it put back together all the properties that were part of [the

Sixth Dynamic Aviation Hangar Nearing Completion

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  2/25/20  BRIDGEWATER — Dynamic Aviation in Bridgewater has nearly completed its sixth hangar, according to Michael Stoltzfus, the company president and CEO.“We have too many airplanes that are sitting outside at the moment,” Stoltzfus said in a Monday interview at the Dynamic Aviation property on Airport Road. “We have a tendency to add hangars, then over time, the business grows and we end up with airplanes that we want to have inside.”The 33,000-square-foot hangar will

Shenandoah Valley Wineries Take Gold In Governor’s Cup

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  2/20/20  The Shenandoah Valley has no shortage of wineries, making it only fitting to be the home of several 2020 Governor’s Cup gold medal winners.The Virginia Wineries Association Governor’s Cup Wine Competition wrapped up its 38th year of judging, awarding 64 wines from 40 different wineries a gold medal — including Rockingham County’s own Bluestone Vineyard and CrossKeys Vineyards, according to a press release.Judging was held over a four week period during late

Quilts Across Textures, Times, Dimensions

By KATHLEEN SHAWNews-Record   2/21/20  A dark and haunting rendition of the national flag features bones instead of stripes and crooked teeth that are reminiscent of stars on strips of dental X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging.Modern, abstract and historic — the latest exhibitions at the Virginia Quilt Museum aim to redefine the public’s perception of quilts.Trudi Van Dyke curated “No Fabric/ No Rules” to inspire artists around the region to take quilting technique approaches and apply them to a work in

Restless Moons Brewing Phases Into 3rd Year

By KATHLEEN SHAWDaily News-Record  2/19/20  Armed with a passion for quality beer and a homebrew kit, Jeff Moon studied as many texts and manuals as he could get his hands on for years with ambitions to open his own brewery. Two years ago, he took the leap and purchased the Wolfe Street Brewing lot to begin his beermaking adventure under the name Restless Moons Brewing.On Feb. 24, 2018, Restless Moons opened its doors and metamorphosed from a far-off dream into a full-fledged operation. This weekend, the

Dynamic Aviation Promotes Rod Moyer to Director, Flight Safety

BRIDGEWATER, VIRGINIA: February 12, 2020 – Dynamic Aviation, provider of special-mission aviation solutions, announced the promotion of Rod Moyer to Director, Flight Safety. Rod is responsible for providing leadership to the company’s Safety Programs for all Flight Operations Business Segments. Additionally, he continues to serve leadership in supporting the restoration of the First Air Force One, as well as other legacy aircraft operations, including the company’s 1943 C-47/DC-3. Mr. Moyer holds a

Nonprofits Get $25K Endowments

Anonymous Donor Provides Funding For Four GroupsBy PETE DELEADaily News-Record  2/7/20  An anonymous donor provided The Community Foundation of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County with $100,000 to establish endowments for four area nonprofits.The foundation’s executive director, Revlan Hill, said the donor came forward in December to begin the process.“We were thrilled,” Hill said. “It’s very important for organizations to have endowments. It gives them a stream of income to rely on each year.”Through the

Friendly City Food Co-op To Expand

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  2/1/20  Friendly City Food Co-op will expand into an adjacent building, according to a building permit application submitted to Harrisonburg.Steve Cooke, the general manager at the grocery store, said work will begin in March and the market will stay open for the eight- month duration of the project.The expansion will bring the footprint for the business to over 10,000 square feet, according to Cooke. The grocery store will have about 40 to 50% more products and will bring on

Fundrasier BRC Executives Take Plunge For Homeless Shelter

FRIGIDFundrasier BRC Executives Take Plunge For Homeless ShelterBy KATHLEEN SHAWDaily News-Record  2/1/20  A little snow did not stop Bridgewater Retirement Community from having an ice spa day for charity.On Thursday afternoon, four women from the senior team braved the snow and took a dip in a dunk tank to raise money for Open Doors as a part of the monthly outreach program Community Connections.Open Doors is a web of faith communities that operate a rotating, seasonal shelter for people who are homeless

GARCC Amalfi Coast Travel - Deposit due in April