News

JMU Names New Dean Of College Of Education

L’Esperance Comes From Eastern Carolina UniversityBy MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record  6/13/19  HARRISONBURG — When Mark L’Esperance began telling people he was going to be working at James Madison University, the response he often got was, “that’s a great place for teacher preparation.”As the person who will be taking over the leadership of the College of Education, this is exactly what L’Esperance was hoping to hear.After a nat ional search, JMU announced this week that L’Esperance will become the next

Brown Edwards Announces Staff Promotions

Brown Edwards & Company, LLP is pleased to announce the admission of Kelli Vance, CPA to the Partnership.  Anthony Carpenter, CPA, Emily Signorelli, CPA, Megan Meador, CPA and Clarence Rhudy, CPA have become Directors.  Brown Edwards is a full-service regional accounting firm with offices in three states and recognized as one of the top 100 firms in the nation.  In addition to the traditional auditing, accounting, and taxation services, the firm provides industry leading service to a diverse clientele

Alzheimer’s Research, Prevention Top Priority At City Conference

By LAINE GRIFFINDaily News-Record  6/7/19  HARRISONBURG — The Alzheimer’s Association Central and Western Virginia Chapter held its 15th annual Alzheimer’s Research Education Program conference Thursday, with about 100 attendees.Annie Marrs, the family services director of the Alzheimer’s Association, said normally the conference, which aligns with Alzheimer and Brain Awareness Month in June, focuses on direct caregivers, but this year it heavily revolved around research.“Research includes global and

Business Leaders Learn About Workforce Diversity Opportunities

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  6/6/19  HARRISONBURG — Dozens of business leaders learned about the tax grants and incentives available to those who hire a diverse workforce at a Harrisonburg- Rockingham Chamber of Commerce event at the Lucy F. Simms Continuing Education Center on Wednesday afternoon.The first-of-its-kind chamber event, “Diversity in Business: Diversify Your Workforce to Strengthen Your Business,” featured various speakers who touched on a number of topics, including staffing, diversity and

Blue Ridge Christian School Gets $200K Gift

By MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record  6/6/19  DAYTON — Friends and family of Blue Ridge Christian School parent, Tami Wyse, wanted to do something in her honor after she died in November 2017, and in her memory were able to give $200,000 to the school where Wyse’s children still attend.Karen Shomo has been at Blue Ridge Christian School for five years and the last three as head of the school.She said that two things were near and dear to Wyse’s heart — fellowship and educating students in “biblical

Valley Bach Festival Tackles Creation Theme

By SHELBY MERTENSDaily News-Record  6/4/19  HARRISONBURG — During the week of June 9 to 16, around 80 musicians, both local and those visiting from around the region, will perform 11 classical orchestra concerts at Eastern Mennonite University and Asbury United Methodist Church in celebration of renowned composer Johann Sebastian Bach.The Shenandoah Valley Bach Festival is entering its 27th year, drawing guest musicians from as far as Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maryland and New York. The festival was cofounded by

Chamber To Host Program On Diversity

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  6/4/19  HARRISONBURG — The Harrisonburg-Rockingham Chamber of Commerce will hold its first diversity in business workforce event on Wednesday.The four-hour program will feature speakers who will address different aspects of the business advantages to having a diverse workforce at the Lucy F. Simms Continuing Education Center in Harrisonburg.The “Diversify Your Workforce to Strengthen Your Business” event was organized by the chamber’s diversity council to be a “tangible”

Reed Just Trying To ‘Make A Difference’

Mayor Reflects On ‘Strong Woman’ RecognitionBy LAINE GRIFFINDaily News-Record  5/24/19  HARRISONBURG — Harrisonburg isn’t done celebrating Mayor Deanna Reed’s recent accomplishment of being named one of the seven recipients of the 2019 Strong Men and Women in Virginia History awards. Although she was already honored in February at the Richmond Marriott award ceremony, at 7 p.m. Thursday she will be honored through an exhibit and reception at the Massanutten Regional Library’s Central Library.Reed said she

DN-R Cartoonist Displays Work At Smith House Galleries

‘Barney Google And Snuffy Smith’ Comic Celebrates 100 YearsBy SHELBY MERTENSDaily News-Record  5/24/19  HARRISONBURG — Award-winning Daily News-Record cartoonist John Rose is sharing a collection of his popular comic strips spanning two decades at the Arts Council of the Valley’s Smith House Galleries.“A Bodacious Barney Google and Snuffy Smith Retrospective” opens June 7.Rose, 55, began his newspaper career in 1988 at the Byrd-owned Warren Sentinel in Front Royal. He traveled down the Valley to the Daily

ValleyFest Returns For 19th Year

Annual Fundraising Event Returns To Massanutten Resort This SaturdayDN-R Staff Reports 5/24/19  McGAHEYSVILLE — Thousands of people will converge on the slopes at Massanutten Resort this weekend for what is, to some, the unofficial start to summer.ValleyFest Beer and Wine Festival, an annual fundraiser for the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Chamber of Commerce, goes Saturday from noon to 7 p. m. and features libations from about three dozen breweries, wineries and cideries.Participating local beverage producers

BRC To Begin Chaplain Institute

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  5/25/19  BRIDGEWATER — One of the first things Rev. Russ Barb remembers about C. D. Lantz was how during a Church of the Brethren Service, Lantz advocated for what would become Bridgewater Retirement Community.Now, Barb, the director of pastoral care for BRC, is beginning a chaplaincy institute at BRC with help from Lantz’s daughter, Carolyn Hatcher, who gave a gift of $ 25,000 to build the program.Classes of about four students per unit will learn via web classes and

Regional Chamber Hires Chief Executive

  By JOSH JANNEY For The Daily News-Record         5/30/19   WINCHESTER — The Top of Virginia Regional Chamber has hired a new chief executive officer to succeed Richard Kennedy, who is stepping down Friday for personal and family reasons, the organization announced Tuesday. Cynthia Schneider, the chamber’s current chief operating officer, will become CEO effective Saturday. The 62-year-old has been with the chamber since 2015. Prior to becoming COO, she was director of finance and

U*Nite Honors ‘Leaders And Unsung Heroes’

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  5/23/19  ROCKINGHAM COUNTY — In an otherwise quiet field, a barn in Rockingham County resounded with applause and laughter multiple times Wednesday evening as the United Way of Harrisonburg and Rockingham held its second U*Nite to honor “community leaders and unsung heroes,” said Laura Toni-Holsinger, executive director.“These are all people that I am lucky to get to interact with on a regular basis and work so hard for people in our community who don’t have access to all the

Resort’s Elson Named Marketer Of The Year

HARRISONBURG — Sarah Elson, of Massanutten Resort, was recently recognized by the Central Virginia chapter of the American Marketing Association. Elson, director of business relations for the McGaheysville resort, was named Marketer of the Year at the organization’s 2019 Excellence in Marketing Awards gala on Thursday, according to a press release. The award recognizes someone who stands out through both work and community service. Elson moved to Virginia in 2005 and built Massanutten Resort’s marketing

City Unveils New Pool Features At Ribbon-Cutting

Making A SplashCity Unveils New Pool Features At Ribbon-CuttingBy JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  5/21/19  HARRISONBURG — It’s time to get your swimsuits out because Harrisonburg is ready to splash into summer.Westover Pool is ready to beat the heat with the addition of the first splash pad in Rockingham County and other pool renovations.The new features were unveiled Monday with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring Mayor Deanna Reed, City Manager Eric Campbell, Assistant Director of Parks and

Schultz Theatre Puts Twists On ‘Snow White’

By SHELBY MERTENSDaily News-Record  5/16/19  BROADWAY — An ensemble cast at the Schultz Theatre is performing a contemporary version of the classic fairy tale “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” that adds new twists.The production debuts tonight at J. Frank Hillyard Middle School in Broadway starting at 7 p.m., with additional performances at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and at 3 p.m. Sunday.The new version was adapted from the famous Brothers Grimm tale by Catherine Bush, the resident playwright at the Barter

Memorial Day Celebration Set For Fairgrounds

By PETE DELEADaily News-Record  5/17/19  HARRISONBURG — For years, local evangelist Steve Wingfield watched Memorial Day come and go with little acknowledgement for those the day was set aside to remember.Seven years ago, he stepped up to fill the void. He wanted to remember those who gave their lives fighting for the country and those who continue to fight for America’s freedoms.“They are the modern-day heroes,” said Jessica Taylor, the ministry staff specialist for the Steve Wingfield Evangelistic

Rockingham, Harrisonburg Teachers Of The Year Named

By MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record  5/17/19  HARRISONBURG — Two teachers were named 2020 Teachers of the Year for Harrisonburg City Public Schools and Rockingham County Public Schools, during a joint ceremony at the Lucy Simms Continuing Education Center on Thursday evening.The 2020 Lucy F. Simms Educator of the Year ceremony is hosted by both the Harrisonburg Education Foundation and the Rockingham Educational Foundation Inc. as a shared initiative to celebrate the teachers in the community who have been

‘A Larger Sense Of Community’

Mini- Golf Tournament Welcomes Retirement Home ResidentsBy PETE DELEADaily News-Record  5/17/19  HARRISONBURG — Merv Wunderlich watched as his bright orange golf ball weaved around boulders, avoided sand traps and came within inches of falling into the hole.While he was itching for a hole-in-one, the 67-year-old Bridgewater Retirement Community resident was more focused on meeting new friends during the 18 holes at Mulligan’s Golf Center’s miniature golf course.Wunderlich was among 20 people from area

Virginia Chamber Of Commerce Awards Valley Legislators

DNR 5/17/19HARRISONBURG — Local state legislators received awards from the Virginia Chamber of Commerce during the chamber’s annual dinner Wednesday.Recognized were Dels. Tony Wilt, R-Broadway, Steve Landes, R-Weyers Cave, and Todd Gilbert, R-Woodstock, and Sens. Emmett Hanger, R-Mount Solon, and Mark Obenshain, R-Rockingham.The Virginia Chamber of Commerce is the largest business advocacy organization in the commonwealth with more than 26,000 members.The dinner provides an opportunity to recognize the work

Wilt Receives Free Enterprise Award

Harrisonburg- Delegate Tony Wilt (R-Broadway) has received the Free Enterprise Award for Small Business from the Virginia Chamber of Commerce. The award was presented Wednesday evening in Richmond at the organization’s annual dinner. “I am honored to be named a Chamber Free Enterprise Award recipient for our work to find solutions to lower health care costs for small businesses and their employees,” stated Wilt. “I look forward to the opportunity to continue to work with the Virginia Chamber and our local

VIRGINIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RECOGNIZES LEGISLATORS WITH “FREE ENTERPRISE AWARD” FOR WORK TO IMPROVE VIRGINIA’S ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS

The Virginia Chamber of Commerce today named the recipients of the Free Enterprise Award for their support of pro-business policies during the 2019 legislative session. The Free Enterprise Award recognizes legislators for their support for the principles and initiatives outlined in the Chamber’s long-term economic development plan, Blueprint Virginia 2025. “At the Virginia Chamber, we recognize the important role that legislators play in bringing the business community together and making Virginia the best

DELEGATE LANDES RECEIVES “LIFETIME SERVICE AWARD” AND TWO “FREE ENTERPRISE AWARDS” FROM THE VIRGINIA

RICHMOND, VA – The Virginia Chamber of Commerce named Del. R. Steven Landes, R-Weyers Cave, Chairman of the House Education Committee and Vice Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, a recipient of the “Lifetime Service Award, Career Focused K-12 Education Award, and the Fiscal Stewardship Award. The awards were presented to Del. Landes at the Chamber’s 2019 Annual Dinner held in Richmond last night for his work in the 2019 General Assembly session. The awards were issued to Del. Landes in

Secretary Of Education Visits HCPS

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  5/9/19  HARRISONBURG — Virginia Secretary of Education Atif Qarni visited Harrisonburg High School on Wednesday to learn about the computer science program offered at the school.Qarni later visited Bluestone Elementary, stopping by classrooms and discussing student-centered instructional practices with teachers and the school’s leadership team.Computer science teachers Perry Shank and Jon Stapleton, along with Harrisonburg High School Principal Cynthia Prieto, Assistant

BRCC's Summer Youth Program - Learning Can Be Fun!

Learning Can Be Fun 2019Summer Youth Program (rising grades K-12) The 2019 program will run June 17 - July 19 (no classes July 1-5).Now registering! Class information available here. Have questions? Start with our FAQs or call 540/453-2215.https://brcc.augusoft.net/index.cfm?method=templates.CustomTemplatePreview&ContentID=155&upid=13991946&ebid=17533367&ebslid=1363062&eblid=153

Merck Plans To Invest $1 Billion In Expansion

Almost 100 Jobs Coming To Elkton-Area PlantBy JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  5/7/19  ELKTON — Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam visited Elkton on Monday afternoon to announce that global health care leader Merck & Co. plans to invest $1 billion in stages over the next three years to expand its manufacturing operations.Merck has close to 69,000 employees and delivers health solutions through its prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies and animal health products. The manufacturing plant in

Governor Northam Announces Significant Investment in Rockingham County

Merck & Co., Inc. to expand Elkton manufacturing facility, creating about 100 new jobs  ELKTON—Governor Ralph Northam today announced that Merck & Co., Inc., a publicly held global healthcare company known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, plans to invest up to $1 billion in stages over the next three years to expand its manufacturing operation in Rockingham County. The company will add 120,000 square feet to its existing 1.1 million-square-foot operation in Elkton, Virginia to increase

Library Hosts Third Comic Con

Staff Members See Benefit In Free Comics For CommunityBy IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  5/6/19  HARRISONBURG — Massanutten Regional Library hosted its third annual Comic Con on Saturday, stocked with over 1,000 free comic books, games and activities, guest speakers from the comic world, all in an event that draws over 200 people.MRL’s Comic Con, held at the Central Branch in Harrisonburg, coincides with international Free Comic Book Day, said Denise Munro, youth services coordinator for Massanutten Regional

Tech Nite Honors Innovators

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  4/30/19  HARRISONBURG — Over 250 people sang “Happy Birthday” to Mike Goertzen, of the Shenandoah Valley Technology Council and Serco Inc., to celebrate his 50th birthday, but they were gathered in the Festival Ballroom of James Madison University for a different reason Monday evening.The Shenandoah Valley Technology Council held Tech-Nite 19 with guests representing various government, educational and agriculture sector technology enterprises. The annual event is the largest

Park View Federal Credit Union Honored With Excellence Award

NewsInBriefPark View Federal Credit Union Honored With Excellence AwardDNR 4/30/19  HARRISONBURG — Park View Federal Credit Union in Harrisonburg, Virginia was recently honored with an Excellence Award, which recognizes outstanding human resource/training and development achievements in the credit union industry, according to a press release.The award was presented by the Credit Union National Association HR & Organizational Development Council, a national network comprised of 900+ credit union human

2019 Wage & Benefit Survey

Click the links below to find out about the 2019 Wage and Benefit Survey.2019 Wage & Benefit Survey - Benefits by Major Industry Sector 2019 Wage & Benefit Survey - Regional Benefits2019 Wage & Benefit Survey 

VMRC To Host Open House For New Wing

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  4/24/19  HARRISONBURG — Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community has opened its new Transitional Care Center in the Oak Lea building, the result of a $6.2 million investment with $1.4 million collected from donations.VMRC is having an open house from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday to formally open the new center, which is 3,600 square feet and part of a 35,500-square foot space dedicated to short term rehab and nursing.Just outside the rehab facility are 35 private suites for patients,

New Harrisonburg Schools Superintendent Sworn In

By MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record  4/20/19  HARRISONBURG — When Chaz Haywood asked Michael Richards to come to the front of the room to be sworn in as the next superintendent of Harrisonburg City Schools, the Rockingham Circuit Court clerk commented on the moment being a special one, because it was a full family affair.Standing by his side while he swore to execute the duties of superintendent, were Richards’ children and wife, NoNieqa Ramos.In fact, Richards’ two youngest children, a daughter in sixth

Elkton’s New Town Manager Gets Ready

By LAINE GRIFFINDaily News-Record   ELKTON — Kim Alexander is ready to get to know Elkton and all it has to offer.On May 1, Alexander will begin her position as Elkton’s new town manager.“I think this is a great point of time for the town of Elkton,” Alexander, 41, of Harrisonburg, said in an interview Monday. “There seems to be a lot of things changing — there’s a big corner to be turned, and they are moving into a positive direction and I’m excited to be a part of that.”Town Council unanimously voted to

Technical Center Job Fair Expands, Gets New Location

By MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record   HARRISONBURG — Massanutten Technical Center’s annual job fair has found a new home after out growing its old location.Each year the technical center invites businesses from all over the Valley to talk to second- year students about the job opportunities that exist once they graduate. The event was previously held at Massanutten Technical Center, however, there are too many vendors to have it there this year, Director Kevin Hutton said.“We’re at the point where we can’t

Mercy House Gets Housing Grant

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  4/19/19  HARRISONBURG — Gov. Ralph Northam announced Wednesday the recipients of the Virginia Housing Trust Fund Homeless Reduction Grants worth $2.2 million, including local nonprofit Mercy House.Through a competitive process, 30 projects that target efforts to reduce homelessness were selected for the funds.Mercy House was awarded the maximum grant of $100,000.This is the third year in a row Mercy House has received the Virginia Housing Fund Homeless Reduction

Rockingham Park Prepares For Grand Opening

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  4/19/19  HARRISONBURG — The Rockingham County Recreation Commission met Thursday, presenting updates on Rockingham Park at the Crossroads along with upcoming events.The park remains on track for a grand opening on June 2, accompanied with bounce houses, food trucks and athletic activities.The recently installed playground continues to be a big hit for children, becoming a popular spot at all times of the day, according to the commission. Its biggest draw is the zip

Great Community Give Aims For Record Year

By PETE DELEADaily News- Record 4/15/19  HARRISONBURG — For Maria Simonetti of the Collins Center and Child Advocacy Center, the Great Community Give is about more than just raising money — it’s about raising awareness.She said many people don’t know that Harrisonburg and Rockingham County have a nonprofit geared toward helping sexual abuse survivors.“It introduces them to us,” said Simonetti, the center’s executive director. “They are exposed to a host of nonprofits in the region they might not have known

Public Comes Out To Clean Up Harrisonburg, Blacks Run

By LAINE GRIFFINDaily News-Record  4/15/19  HARRISONBURG — More people joined together for the 22nd Blacks Run Clean Up Day than Rebecca Stimson ever remembers in her three years working as the city’s public works stormwater compliance specialist.More than 700 people showed up Saturday morning to pick up trash on the city streets and at Blacks Run.“Usually we pick up around 3-4 tons of trash, but we are hoping for less because that could mean there is less trash being improperly disposed of,” Stimson

DN-R Gets Virginia Press Association Awards

By LAINE GRIFFINDaily News-Record  4/13/19  HARRISONBURG — Six staff members of the Daily News-Record were recently honored for their work.At the 2018 Virginia Press Association competitions, 11 awards were given to six staff members for exceptional work in advertising, editorial and photography work.The DN- R competed in the midsize daily division.John Rose, a cartoonist who has worked with the DN- R since 1993, won the “Best in Show” award at the annual VPA annual awards banquet, which took place April 6

Flying High • Airport Sees Soaring Passenger Numbers

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  4/6/19  HARRISONBURG — This week marks one year since the Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport partnered with SkyWest Airlines and officials have seen some of the best business in two decades.SkyWest “has exceeded our expectations in their performance and the reception in the community has been positive,” said Greg Campbell, the executive director of SVRA.After one year full year of SkyWest operations, SVRA in Weyers Cave has seen a passenger traffic increase of 260% overall to

PlanSURITY is Revolution in Cost and Quality of Dental Coverage, Changes Health Care TOO -

PlanSURITY is a Revolution in Cost and Quality of Dental Coverage, Changes Health Care Too- 5 Minute Must-See Video.  Pay Less, Get More, Measure Everything with PlanSURITY.  1.) Employers reduce your costs... and what employees pay too. Permanently.2.) Covers everything done is the dental chair...with no restrictions or financial limits.3.) Measure and improve treatments with an independent review or clinical work and patient experience.  Say good bye to traditional fatally flawed dental insurance.

Organization: Timberville Among Safest Small Towns

By PETE DELEADaily News-Record  4/4/19  TIMBERVILLE — Although it had a lot of competition nationwide, Timberville cracked the list of the top 100 safest small towns in America. SafeWise, a safety-focused community organization, released its list Tuesday. Timberville ranked No. 36. Police Chief J. R. Dodd said that while he’s pleased the town was recognized, he doesn’t put a whole lot of weight in the rankings.“It’s a double-edged sword,” said Dodd, adding that he doesn’t want residents to become

Bridging The Gap For Art

New ‘Gallery Hop’ Showcases Scenery, Local ArtBy LAINE GRIFFINDaily News-Record  4/4/19   ELKTON — It’s all about supporting local artists and taking the scenic route from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. this weekend.The inaugural Bridge the Gap for Art event, which is a gallery hop between SoLace Fine Handcrafts in Elkton and Noon Whistle Pottery in Stanardsville, is set for Saturday and Sunday.SoLace owner, Barbara Polin, and Noon Whistle owners, John Pluta and Holly Horan, came up with the idea last spring to

Bridgewater, BRCC Sign Guaranteed Admissions Agreement

Daily News-Record  4/2/19  BRIDGEWATER — Two area colleges are working together to make a bachelor’s degree more accessible to students.Bridgewater College and Blue Ridge Community College signed a new guaranteed admission agreement allowing students meeting certain requirements to transfer directly from the community college to Bridgewater’s bachelor’s degree program and enter with junior status.Bridgewater President David Bushman and Blue Ridge Community College President John Downey signed the agreement

InterChange Unveils Solar Panels

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  4/2/19  MOUNT CRAWFORD — The InterChange Group formally unveiled its $3 million solar array systems that pepper the rooftops of four facilities across the Valley on Tuesday.The system is the largest of its kind at any Virginia logistics firm and is the culmination of two years of work. The speakers for the unveiling were Devon Anders, president of InterChange Group; Anthony Smith, the CEO of Secure Futures Solar; Ricardo Colón, the director of business programs for the U. S.

Top Chef Harrisonburg Raises Money For CASA

Cooking For A CauseTop Chef Harrisonburg Raises Money For CASABy MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record  4/1/19  HARRISONBURG — Top Chef Harrisonburg took place at Bluestone Vineyard Saturday night and included chefs from Bella Luna Wood- Fired Pizza, Cuban Burger, Food.Bar.Food, Joshua Wilton House, Local Chop and Grill House, Vito’s Italian Kitchen and Montpelier Restaurant and Bar.The winner was Tom French from Joshua Wilton House. He won with a menu of farro risotto with chorizo, shellfish and lobster

Runners Seminar Held At Appalachian Physical Therapy

DNR 4/1/19  Appalachian Physical Therapy recently teamed up with Bluestone Bike and Run to present a seminar for runners on injury prevention and recovery. Led by physical therapist and athletic trainer, Dr. Adam Van Nortwick, 30 area runners of all ages learned about predisposing factors behind running injuries, as well as prevention and recovery.A competitive and now recreational runner himself for the past 17 years, Van Nortwick has garnered a wealth of experience which he puts into practice to continue

Gov. Calls For I-81 Funding

Community Foundation Gears Up For Great Give 2.0

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  3/27/19  HARRISONBURG — The 2018 inaugural Great Community Give fundraiser blew organizers’ expectations out of the water, as the goal was met in the first hours of the event. This year, they’re setting sights even higher.The Great Community Give is an online fundraising drive featuring incentives to help local nonprofits meet goals to help fund their operations. It is organized by The Community Foundation of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County.Last year, the initial goal was

A Sweet Walk Around Downtown

By SHELBY MERTENSDaily News-Record  3/27/19  HARRISONBURG — Traverse through downtown Harrisonburg on April 5 in search of chocolate goods at the 21 stops featured in this year’s Chocolate Walk.The eighth annual Chocolate Walk is organized by the Collins Center, a nonprofit that supports victims of sexual assault.Participants visit each of the designated stops downtown to collect chocolate treats. A map of a suggested route is available, but participants can choose their own path to collect the 21 pieces

Jackson Hotel Management welcomes Brent C Jackson as President

 The former Holiday Inn General Manager of the Year brings nearly 20 years of management experience to the comprehensive hospitality management companyBrent C Jackson President | Jackson Hotel Management   March 20, 2019, Harrisonburg, VA – Jackson Hotel Management welcomes Brent C Jackson as President of their company. Brent joins the company with nearly 20 years of management experience in the hospitality industry. Brent will be responsible for managing new and existing business relationships while

City Council To Honor Longtime Harrisonburg Employee

DN-R Staff Reports 3/26/19  HARRISONBURG — City Council will consider a resolution honoring one of Harrisonburg’s longest-serving employees during its meeting tonight.At the top of the agenda after the pledge of allegiance is an item to recognize Reggie Smith. Smith will retire at the end of the month after 42 years leading the Harrisonburg Department of Public Transportation.Smith, 65, is the only person to have led the department, which was formed in 1976, the same year he started. The Harrisonburg

REAL ID Information - Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport

REAL ID Information SessionSome upcoming travel changes are quickly approaching that will affect everyone that flies! Beginning on October 1st, 2020, federal regulations will require a new form of identification for all Virginia residents boarding domestic flights called a REAL ID. The Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport will be hosting a free Information Session on April 4th from 12-5 pm where the community can get questions answered about the REAL ID process by DMV representatives. For more information on

Community Leaders Deliver Meals On Wheels

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  3/21/19  HARRISONBURG — Wayne Harold has been regularly volunteering with Meals on Wheels for six years, and is usually joined by Zeke, his chocolate lab.But on Wednesday, his delivery team member was his son, Josh, the taproom manager of Brothers Craft Brewing in Harrisonburg.Over a dozen “Community Champions,” or community leaders, helped deliver food for the local Meals on Wheels program run by the Valley Program for Aging Services.The “champions” were organized into six

Paxton Serving As Interim Town Manager

By PETE DELEADaily News-Record     3/21/19  DAYTON — After more than two years on the sidelines, Joe Paxton returned to action in local government this year.Dayton Town Council tapped the retired Rockingham County administrator as interim town manager on Jan. 24. He will lead the town until a replacement can be found for Bobby Popowicz, who resigned in early January.Paxton, who has been working with a local government consulting firm, The Berkley Group, said returning to the office was seamless.“I’ve kept

Boys And Girls Club Names Interim Head

By LAINE GRIFFINDaily News-Record  3/20/19  HARRISONBURG — With Lori Kizner’s last day with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County coming to an end in two weeks, Greg Lunsford will take over the reins as interim executive director.Lunsford, 50, began his career at the local Boys and Girls Club last Oct. 15 as the director of development. Once he takes over as interim executive director on April 1, he will still continue his job as director of development.“Lori has done so many great

DN-R Hosts First Senior Expo

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  3/15/19  HARRISONBURG— The Daily News-Record’s Senior Expo will bring together the latest products and resources for older adults in an effort to try and match up the community with different services in the area.On Sunday, the Rockingham County Fairgrounds main exhibit hall will be filled with local vendors offering a variety of services.“We are excited about hosting our first Senior Expo because there isn’t another event like this in the Valley,” said Rhonda McNeal,

New Software To Aid United Way

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record 3/16/19  HARRISONBURG— United Way of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County will roll out a centralized database for local health and human service providers to improve quality of referrals to clients on Wednesday.The system, called Empower Harrisonburg Rockingham, uses software from the New York based Unite Us company.Unite Us, founded in 2013, was originally created to support the military community, said Sabina Loscalzo, the director of marketing for Unite Us.“Over time, the

Chefs Compete For A Cause

By SHELBY MERTENSDaily News-Record  3/13/19  HARRISONBURG — Brian Bogan will arrive at Bluestone Vineyard on March 30 ready to defend his title as “Top Chef” in Harrisonburg.“I thrive off of challenges,” said Bogan, who competed for Local Chop & Grill House last year and will represent Bella Luna Wood-Fired Pizza this year.Top Chef Harrisonburg, based off the reality cooking competition television show “Top Chef,” is returning for its second year as a benefit for Blue Ridge Court Appointed Special

Daily News-Record Welcomes New Editor

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  3/14/19  HARRISONBURG — Clarissa Cottrill began writing before she knew how to write, drawing pictures on napkins to express herself. Continuing her writing and diving into the journalism industry, Cottrill made her way to becoming the Daily News-Record’s newest editor.“I always wanted to be a writer and as I got older I saw journalism as this great industry of writing and creativity, but also public service, which are both really important, so I just threw myself into

HPD Foundation Takes Over Adventure Race

By PETE DELEADaily News-Record  3/14/19  HARRISONBURG — Three years ago, Chad Layman started the Fine Earth Adventure Race to help veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.With three successful races under his belt, it was time for Layman, the owner of Harrisonburg’s Fine Earth landscaping, to hand the reins over to another organization, the Harrisonburg Police Foundation, according to the foundation.“The bigger it got, the more it stretched their resources,” said Auxiliary Lt. Robert

Sipe Center Ahead Of Schedule

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  3/14/19  BRIDGEWATER— Bridgewater Town Manager Jay Litten gave a tour of the construction site for the town’s new $1.3 million multipurpose theater Tuesday, followed by an update on performances coming up for the center’s first season.In his report to Town Council, Litten said construction continues to run ahead of schedule, despite the “incessant poor weather.”Originally expected wrap in the fall, construction is now on track to finish this summer at 100 N. Main St.

Dressed For Success : B&G Club Member To Compete In Richmond

By LAINE GRIFFINDaily News-Record  3/7/19  HARRISONBURG — Merciel Bujitu is getting ready to be the star of the show after being picked for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County 2019 Youth of the Year award.Merciel, a 15-year-old sophomore at Harrisonburg High School, moved to the Valley from the Democratic Republic of Congo in December 2017 not knowing a word of English, but that didn’t stop him from becoming a leader at the local club soon after his arrival.“He has such a radiant

Boys And Girls Club Hiring

Organization Looks To Replace Executive DirectorBy LAINE GRIFFINDNR 3/4/19  Daily News-Record HARRISONBURG— A well-known face to Harrisonburg is about to say goodbye and the process to find her replacement is set to begin within the next week.Lori Kizner, executive director of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County, announced her resignation on Jan. 31 saying, she will leave on April 1.Doug Driver, president of the club’s executive board, said advertising for the position will occur

Local Rotary Donates $100,000 To Rockingham Park

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  3/5/19  HARRISONBURG — Members of four local Rotary clubs gave not only their time over the weekend, but their money — donating $100,000 for playground equipment at Rockingham Park at the Crossroads.Over 60 members from the Rotary clubs of Harrisonburg, Rockingham County, Bridgewater and Harrisonburg- Massanutten pitched in hours of time spreading wood carpet down to be used under mulch and installing boarders surrounding the new playground at the park.Jon Sayre, a

School Board Names Next Superintendent

By MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record  3/6/19  HARRISONBURG — Michael Richards, former chief of staff for Loudoun County Public Schools, will be the next superintendent of Harrisonburg City Public Schools.After a five-month search, the School Board unanimously approved the hiring of Richards, who attended the board’s Tuesday night meeting, where he and Chairwoman Deb Fitzgerald signed his contract.“I’m very excited to start this journey with you,” Richards said to the audience of about 50.Richards was there

BRCC Bioscience Building On Track For This Fall

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  3/2/19  WEYERS CAVE — The opening of a new bioscience building at Blue Ridge Community College remains on track for this fall.With more than 41,000 square feet, the $20.8 million two- story structure will house the nursing program with labs, hospital room simulation areas and classrooms, according to Bridget Baylor, the director of public relations at BRCC.“There will also be a biomanufacturing suite, including clean-room technology for food manufacturing and other

Another Taste: Downtown Culinary Festival Returns

By SHELBY MERTENSDaily News-Record  3/2/19  HARRISONBURG — While the students are away on spring break, downtown Harrisonburg chefs have a chance to experiment with new menu items.Taste of Downtown, the city’s restaurant week, will run Monday through March 10 with 22 participating restaurants.“There’s a wide range of offerings,” said Kim Kirk, chief marketing officer for Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance. “We have restaurants that are rolling out their new spring menus, for example, Bella Gelato and

HIRE Vets Application Period Now Open

WASHINGTON – Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) announced on Friday (February 1) the opening of the HIRE Vets Medallion Award application. The program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor. “This program recognizes small businesses, non-profit organizations, and large companies for their leadership in recruiting, employing, and retaining America's veterans,” a release from the DoL stated. “I encourage all Sixth Congressional District businesses to participate in this program,” Cline said. “Veterans

Red Wing Roots Music Festival's 2019 Full Line Up

Red Wing Roots Announces Headliners for Seventh Annual Festival Harrisonburg, Va. – The Red Wing Roots Music Festival will return to Natural Chimneys Park in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley for the seventh time this summer – featuring, as always, local favorites and festival hosts, The Steel Wheels . The 2019 festival will take place from July 12-14 in Mount Solon, Va. Festival organizers are excited to announce the full lineup of artists who will join The Steel Wheels in performing at the seventh

EMS Moving Forward On Elementary Building

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  2/14/19  HARRISONBURG — Renovations are underway to prepare Eastern Mennonite School’s new building to bring the school’s elementary classes onto its campus permanently.The city granted the school a building permit for the renovations on Feb. 6.Eastern Mennonite School, 801 Parkwood Drive, is a religious elementary, middle and high school in the Anabaptist-Mennonite traditions with 341 students.The project to finish the elementary school is estimated to cost $4.5 million,

Reed Receives Prestigious Award

By PETE DELEADaily News-Record  2/12/19  HARRISONBURG— When Deanna Reed attended a Harrisonburg City Council meeting for the first time five years ago, her main concern was school overcrowding.However, when she looked around the council chambers, she noticed a consistent theme: men.As someone who mentors youth as a passion and a career, she said, something needed to change. She lobbied women she knew to run for council, but had no luck. So, she ran herself.“I truly believe that young people need to see

Virginia Quilt Museum Reopens With New Exhibits

By SHELBY MERTENS Daily News-Record 2/12/19   HARRISONBURG — The Virginia Quilt Museum is launching its 2019 season on Feb. 19 with four exhibits that will run until the summer. The downtown Harrisonburg museum, 301 S. Main St., closed since Dec. 16, reopens with exhibits that will showcase local, regional and internationally made quilts representing a range of styles and techniques. “It’s a good representation of what traditional quilts look like and then what contemporary quilts are. So, you can

County Parks & Rec To Expand After-School Programs

By MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record  2/13/19  HARRISONBURG — After offering after-school programs at Rockingham County elementary schools for more than two decades, the Parks and Recreation Department is planning to expand to the middle schools as well.According to the department, 470 children are enrolled in after-school care at Cub Run, Mountain View, McGaheysville, John Wayland, Fulks Run, John C. Myers, Lacey Spring, Ottobine, Pleasant Valley and Peak View elementary schools.In November, Kirby Dean,

SVEC Awards Grants

DNR 2/13/19  ROCKINGHAM — The Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative’s Operation Round Up Committee awarded more than $14,000 in grants to local nonprofit organizations in January.Operation Round Up, which launched in fall 2017, is the cooperative’s charitable giving program that addresses crucial needs within their service area, according to the SVEC press release.The cooperative serves around 93,000 meters in Rockingham, Augusta, Shenandoah, Clarke, Frederick, Highland and Warren counties,along with the

Habitat Earns $500K Loan

‘Forgivable’ Loan To Be Used For Affordable HousingBy JESSICA WETZLERDaily News- Record 2/6/19  HARRISONBURG — The Central Valley Habitat of Humanity was awarded a $ 500,000 “forgivable” loan Friday to be used for providing affordable housing to low- income individuals.David Wenger, executive director of the nonprofit, said the organization applied for the loan in October to help pay for upcoming projects.“It gives families hope to get off the island of isolation,” Wenger said in regard to providing

A Weekend Of Wine

By SHELBY MERTENSDaily News-Record  2/6/19  HARRISONBURG — Hotel Madison is offering a immersive weekend experience for wine aficionados and connoisseurs that includes educational workshops, tastings and food pairings.The inaugural Winter Wine Weekend, taking place Feb. 22-24 in the hotel’s conference center, will showcase over 20 wineries based in the Shenandoah Valley region, in partnership with Bluestone Vineyard and the James Madison University Hart School of Hospitality, Sport and Recreation

‘Mr. Elkton’ Settles Into New Role

YOUR HOMETOWNELKTON‘Mr. Elkton’ Settles Into New Role25-Year-Old Gooden Moves Into Mayor’s PostBy LAINE GRIFFINDNR 1/31/19  Daily News- Record ELKTON — If you had asked Josh Gooden 10 years ago if he would want to be mayor of Elkton, he probably would’ve said no.Now, Gooden said, he couldn’t imagine serving his community in any better way.“I’ve always been interested in community service, and this just kind of ended up being the route I went to continue to serve in the community I grew up in,” he

Callahan Named Partner At City Firm

BUSINESSBRIEFSCallahan Named Partner At City FirmDNR 2/9/19  HARRISONBURG — Clark & Bradshaw PC announced Quinton B. Callahan as a new partner of the law firm.Callahan, who joined the firm in 2014, practices state and federal civil litigation, with an emphasis on business and commercial litigation, according to a Tuesday press release from Clark & Bradshaw. He also serves as a corporate counsel for local businesses, the release states.Callahan, raised in RockinghamCounty, is a Broadway High School and

Dean Brothers Names CEO

HARRISONBURG — Dean Brothers Inc., a Harrisonburg commercial, industrial and residential electrical company, will welcome Adam Roberson as its new CEO in March.Roberson, who has experience with strategic planning while working for a Minnesota- based commercial printing company now called Navitor, has spent the past 10 years as an executive and program director of a medical nonprofit and is in the process of relocating to the Valley from central Maryland.The company’s four owners — Edward Dean, Steven Dean,

MTC Auto Program Gets New Car

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  1/23/19  HARRISONBURG — Massanutten Technical Center’s high school automotive training course welcomed a new car into its fleet Tuesday morning.The 2013 Ford Focus was donated by Harrisonburg Ford and will be the studied in- depth by students.The donation system is a simple process, said Kevin Hutton, MTC’s director.“We try to make it as easy as we can,” he said.Donated cars are typically fixed up and then auctioned to raise money for the program, Hutton said.A separate fate,

Snider To Work As Assistant To City Manager

By LAINE GRIFFINDaily News-Record  1/22/19  HARRISONBURG — Amy Snider is ready to get to work.Snider will take on the role as assistant to City Manager Eric Campbell by the end of this month. Along with other tasks, Snider will be in charge of customer service and citizen complaints, project coordination, special projects and City Council-city manager relations.Her salary with the city will be $88,109, including benefits. The funding for the newly created position was approved in the 2019 fiscal year

Campbell Completes First Year Leading Harrisonburg

Hit The Ground RunningCampbell Completes First Year Leading HarrisonburgBy LAINE GRIFFINDaily News-Record 1/9/19  HARRISONBURG — Eric Campbell has spent a memorable fi rst year as Harrisonburg city manager and says his passion for local government has only grown.From Petersburg to Portsmouth to Charlotte, N.C., to Dallas, Campbell is no stranger to the world of city governance — he’s been doing it for almost 35 years.“The biggest thing I like about this job is making a difference in people’s lives,” he

Bridgewater named #2 for Top Ten Best Places to Live in Virginia for 2019

2. Bridgewater Source: Public domainOverall SnackAbility  7/10 Population: 5,906Rank Last Year: 4 (Up 2)Median Home Value: $209,200 (23rd best)Unemployment Rate: 3.3% (4th best)More on Bridgewater: Real Estate | Data | Photos Bridgewater is just about as close to a perfect area as you can get. Residents here are gainfully employed, and the schools are some of the best in the state. It’s safe, and residents get to enjoy the benefits of quality at home living. It’s quite a gem tucked away in

Free Clinic Expands Eligibility For Services

By LAINE GRIFFINDaily News-Record  1/5/19  HARRISONBURG — With most of its patients now covered by Medicaid, the Harrisonburg- Rockingham Free Clinic has changed its income eligibility requirements.The nonprofit health center’s board voted Dec. 28 to increase its income threshold for patients from 200 percent to 300 percent of the federal poverty level.In 2018, the federal poverty level for individuals was an annual income of $12,140 and $25,100 for a family of four, according to the U.S. Department of

EXCEPTIONAL EXECUTIVE • Living Life To The Fullest

EXCEPTIONAL EXECUTIVELiving Life To The FullestRole Models, Challenges Shape Lori KiznerBy LAINE GRIFFINDaily News-Record  12/31/18  HARRISONBURG — Everything is different in Lori Kizner’s world.To her, it’s about mentoring college students and helping young kids reach their full potential. But it’s also about living.Living her life to its fullest potential.Kizner is known to most people in the community for two things: being the executive director for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Harrisonburg and Rockingham

ELKTON Town Manager Search Begins

By JESSICA WETZLERDNR 1/2/2019  Daily News-Record  ELKTON — After almost three years with no one in the position, Elkton is now formally searching for a town manager.When Josh Gooden was elected mayor in November, he said he wanted to find a full-time town manager as soon as possible.“Filling the position is a top priority because it is needed for the long-term and the short-term planning of the town,” Gooden said Monday. “The town manager helps to make day-to-day decisions and bring all the department

Local SPCA Hires New Director

CANINE CONNECTIONLocal SPCA Hires New DirectorBy SHELBY MERTENSDaily News-Record  1/3/19  HARRISONBURG — The Rockingham-Harrisonburg SPCA has hired a new executive director who wants to lower the shelter’s high euthanasia rate.Huck Nawaz replaces Anne Anderson, who retired at the end of the year after 22 years. Nawaz officially takes over as executive director this month.Nawaz, 36, most recently was vice president of operations at the Humane Society of Charlotte, N.C., a no-kill shelter, for the last three

HRCC is pleased to announce officers and new board members for 2019

 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEThe Harrisonburg-Rockingham Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce officers and new Board members for 2019 elected at the January 3rd Annual Banquet, held at the Hotel Madison and Shenandoah Valley Conference Center. This year’s Executive Committee introduced at the Annual Banquet includes:Dr. John Downey, BRCC –ChairFrank Oncken, Skyline Roofing – Chair-ElectJoel Shank, Dynamic Aviation -Immediate Past-ChairDwight Buracker, PBMares -Vice-Chair of FinanceDonna Preziuso, American

Truck Company Marks 60 Years

By MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record 12/29/18  HARRISONBURG — Janice Shanholtzer was just out of high school when she applied for a job at Truck and Equipment doing parts inventory.There isn’t a special or meaningful story about why she applied for the job she did. Shanholtzer was just ready to start working.But what is special and meaningful was that she stayed. After taking the job in 1962, Shanholtzer has been with the company for 56 years.That’s almost the length of the company’s existence. Truck and

New Fair Manager’s Ag Roots Run Deep

‘SOMETHING I’VE ALWAYS WANTED TO DO’Field ExperienceNew Fair Manager’s Ag Roots Run DeepBy SHELBY MERTENSDaily News- Record 12/28/18  HARRISONBURG — Rebecca Holloway grew up on a farm in Grottoes and started showing market steers and hogs at the Rockingham County Fair at the age of 11.Her family has a long history at the fair, and she won several awards for livestock in her youth. She looked forward to the weeklong event off U. S. 11 south of Harrisonburg each August.“When I was a kid, the fair was like

New Director For First Night

By SHELBY MERTENSDaily News-Record  12/27/18  HARRISONBURG — Terry Burkholder, who was tasked with reviving First Night Harrisonburg eight years ago, is retiring in the new year, making way for a new executive director.The community New Year’s Eve celebration on Monday will be Burkholder’s last. Michael John Betts will take the reins on Jan. 1. “This is my eighth year and First Night continues to grow every year, and in passing the baton to Mike, I feel very confident that First Night will continue to grow

‘What Christmas Is All About’

By PETE DELEADaily News-Record  12/20/18  HARRISONBURG — For the past few days, New Market resident Pam Presgrave packed up pencils, notebooks, toothpaste and other items that most people take for granted.Over the next few days, more than 5,000 packages will be delivered to Virginia inmates provided by Kingsway Prison and Family Outreach in Harrisonburg.“It makes me feel good knowing that they’re not forgotten,” Presgrave said. “I have a wonderful time.”Kingsway, which started in 1983, is a

JMU Names Busing Business College Dean

Longtime Faculty Member Had Been Serving In Interim CapacityBy MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record  12/20/18  HARRISONBURG — Mike Busing got his first taste of the business world working in his family’s meat packaging company in Indiana. Busing said that’s where he believes he got his work ethic.But after years of working in the business, Busing’s dad told him to work hard in school so that he wouldn’t come back to the family trade.“He said study really hard and don’t come back to the family business,” said

Rockingham County Recognized For Annual Financial Reporting

NewsInBriefRockingham County Recognized For Annual Financial ReportingDNR Online 12/20/18  HARRISONBURG — Rockingham County has been recognized by the Government Finance Officers Association for its excellence in financial reporting. The county earned its 36th Certificate of Achievement for Excellence.The Board of Supervisors released to the public the Rockingham County Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the fiscal year ending June 30. The report contained audited financial statements, analysis and

Connecting With Companies

By PETE DELEADaily News-Record  12/18/18  HARRISONBURG — Like many high school seniors, 16-year-old Irene Liu faces the challenge of picking her future career.To help with that, Harrisonburg and Rockingham County schools joined together Monday for the inaugural “Rockingham-Harrisonburg Works” working luncheon held at the James Madison University Festival Conference and Student Center.The luncheon gave Liu, who attends Harrisonburg High School, a chance to sit in on discussions with several of the

Virginia’s 20 Safest Cities of 2018

  In Virginia, creating a safe environment goes beyond traditional crime fighting; it also means working to ensure no one is discriminated against based on race, religion, or other personal attributes. As Attorney General Mark R. Herring puts it, “No Virginian should be singled out for abuse, harassment, or mistreatment because of who they are, what they look like, how they worship, where they come from, or whom they love.” To that end, Herring has fought to expand the definition of hate crimes to