News

First Bank & Trust Company Executive Leadership Team Transitions

ABINGDON, Va., Aug. 21, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- First Bank & Trust Company and its parent holding company, First Bancorp, Inc., today announced that William H. Hayter, President and Chief Executive Officer of First Bank & Trust Company, will transition from his position as Chief Executive Officer, effective August 5, 2019.  The announcement was made by William Hayter at the Bank's 40th anniversary celebratory dinner that included bank officers, board members and executive management. William H. Hayter,

Drivers Crash For Family, Fun, Cash

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  8/17/19  HARRISONBURG — There are several motivations for demolition derby drivers to spend days ripping and welding to purposely bash their cars around a muddy ring — as they did Friday at the Rockingham County Fair.Rockingham County Fair derby winners of the different car classes, which are based on engine size and improvements of the car, walked away with different cash prizes. The first place winners of the six classes walked away with $500, with second place taking $200

Volunteers Fuel Fair’s Success

By PETE DELEADaily News-Record  8/19/19  HARRISONBURG — Like many volunteers at the Rockingham County Fair, Bobby and Vicki Cook’s work for the annual festival begins months before thousands of guests flock through the gates to enjoy the rides, food, concerts and animals.During fair week, they often spend roughly 15 hours at the fair each day helping to make it run smoothly.“We love the fair,” said Vicki Cook, 70, of Bridgewater. “We want to see it survive and stay in the county so kids can enjoy what our

Record-Breaking Day For Adoptions At Local SPCA

By PETE DELEADaily News-Record  8/19/19  HARRISONBURG — Leading up to two events Saturday, Huck Hawaz had high hopes that Harrisonburg-area residents would come out in droves to adopt animals.The events, Clear the Shelters and Girls Putts for Pets, led to a record- breaking 29 adoptions at the Harrisonburg- Rockingham SPCA. It shattered the previous record of 11 set in the spring.“It was quite a jump,” said Hawaz, the executive director. “We couldn’t be happier.”At the start of the day, the shelter had 207

Dairy Demonstration Teaches Fairgoers Modern Processes

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  8/19/19  HARRISONBURG — Three times a day, LaVaun Janney, the instructor for Southland Dairy Farms, teaches a crowd about the dairy milking process at the Rockingham County Fairgrounds.“It’s about why it’s important to have dairy in your diet and how farms take care of cows,” Janney said.And this is no hypothetical teaching situation. Janney has a live cow and goes through the same steps farmers use to milk their livestock.The trailer, dubbed a mobile dairy classroom, is

Kiss A Cow Raises Money For Cancer Society

Pucker UpKiss A Cow Raises Money For Cancer SocietyBy MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record  8/16/19  HARRISONBURG — The Kiss a Cow fundraiser for the American Cancer Society was held Thursday at the Rockingham County Fair.Four contestants — Sallie Wolfe-Garrison, Rebecca Holloway, Kyle Rogers, and Chris Bailey — have been fundraising online for the past couple of weeks, and on Thursday they had one last chance to dart through the crowd soliciting additional funds with buckets.The winner of the concert would get

City Health Center Gets $167K

Will Support Behavioral ServicesBy LAINE GRIFFINDaily News-Record  8/16/19  HARRISONBURG — The Harrisonburg Community Health Center was awarded $167,000 in federal funding to support behavioral health services, including mental health and substance use disorder services.U. S. Sens. Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, both D-Va., announced this week that the U. S. Department of Health and Human Resources would be giving more than $3 million in total to 21 health clinics across the state.Lisa Bricker, the executive

Despite Delay, Fans Flock To Hear McCreery

By MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record  8/16/19  HARRISONBURG — Kaitlynn Torkleson remembers watching Scotty McCreery when he was on “American Idol” many years ago. So it was exciting to see him live on Thursday night at the Rockingham County Fair.And she got free tickets to boot thanks to a radio contest that her mom entered.However, lightning caused the venue to shut down during the opening act, and many people left before McCreery took the stage.Scott Cooke McCreery is an American country music singer. He

EMU Reflects On Successes, Plans For Year Ahead

By MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record  8/15/19  HARRISONBURG — Eastern Mennonite University is looking ahead at the upcoming school year with intentions of remaining a strong educational institution in the Valley.President Susan Schultz Huxman, along with other members of the higher education community, met with the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Chamber of Commerce this week for the kickoff of the “unofficial” start to the new school season and discussed the highlights of EMU’s journey so far and what lies

Carpentry Students Showcase Skills In Competition

By PETE DELEADaily News-Record  8/15/19  HARRISONBURG — As children rode carnival rides and adults munched down food at the Rockingham County Fair on Wednesday, Steven Brooks cut up boards with a circular saw.The 17-year-old junior at Broadway High School and Massanutten Technical Center built a bench as potential employers watched nearby.“My gut is tight. … I’m nervous,” said Brooks, who added he’s looking forward to a carpentry career when he graduates. “Carpentry isn’t the same thing every day. It’s

InterChange Facility To Open Next Month

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  8/15/19  HARRISONBURG — The Rockingham County Board of Supervisors got a firsthand look at the work being done at the new InterChange cold storage facility near Mount Crawford on Wednesday, touring the $41.6 million facility.Gov. Ralph Northam announced the 250,000-square-foot cold storage and blast freezing facility on Aug. 10, 2018, bringing 88 full-time jobs to Rockingham County.President Devon Anders said by the time the facility opens, there will be close to 90

Busting Their Chops

Youth Spend Months Preparing For Fair Market Lamb ShowBy JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record     8/14/19  HARRISONBURG — From a bird’s-eye-view, those viewing the Market Lamb Show at the Rockingham County Fair can witness an individual walk in and out within a few minutes.The concentration seen within each contestant’s eyes c a n b e seen from seats located furthest away from the ring. The show may finish as quickly as it started, but the preparation for the few minutes in the spotlight is a season-long

Bobcat Rodeo Inspires Future Competitor

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  8/14/19  HARRISONBURG — Matthew Jones has watched the Bobcat Rodeo for two years now, taking mental notes for when he gives it a try himself.Matthew, 13, of Mount Solon, is not old enough to participate, but is counting down the days until he can get his time inside the skid loader.“He loves the equipment,” said Cindy Jones, mother of Matthew Jones. “He isn’t old enough to do it right now, so he is studying for the future.”Matthew said he could probably complete

Rodeo Hits County Fair’s First Night

By LAINE GRIFFINDaily News-Record  8/13/19  HARRISONBURG — Marc Etchebarne put on his cowboy hat and red flannel shirt and stared at the bulls, ready to take on whichever one was thrown at him during the rodeo.Although the Monday evening rodeo at the Rockingham County Fair also included barrel racing, roping, steer wrestling and sheep riding, the bull riding seemed to be the main event.Etchebarne, 30, of Timberville, said he started off training horses in high school but wanted to step out and begin riding

Lions, Tigers And Fairs — Oh My!

Exotic Animals Wow At County Fair ShowBy LAINE GRIFFINDaily News-Record  8/13/19  HARRISONBURG — Starting in England and Ireland — seven generations later, Georgina Pompom is keeping close encounters with the exotic kind.Pompom, a native of England, grew up with lions and tigers in her home and at 8 years old, she began training the animals to perform and be a part of the circus lifestyle.Now she puts on shows with her husband of 33 years, Vincent Van-Duke.VanDuke was also born into the circus lifestyle,

OASIS Press Release for September 2019 Events/Exhibits

Brown Edwards Moves Up in Top 100 Ranking

INSIDE Public Accounting (IPA) announces the release of its 2019 annual financial performance analysis and ranking of the nation’s largest public accounting firms.  Roanoke, Virginia based Brown Edwards is among the nation’s top 100 firms again this year, moving up eight spots to #87.  The rankings are based on 2018 U.S. net revenue. IPA is the industry’s leading trade newsletter, and the report is the most accurate listing of the nation’s largest accounting firms based on fiscal performance.   Brown

Bridgewater College Named ‘Best College’ by Kiplinger and The Princeton Review

 BRIDGEWATER, Va.—Bridgewater College’s model of preparing its students for life beyond campus means more than just connecting them with the right career. It means providing them with a quality educational experience at a price they can afford.  Kiplinger, a Washington, D.C.-based publisher of business forecasts and personal finance advice, released recently its annual “Best College Values, 2019” list of all U.S. colleges and universities, along with its lists of best value private universities, private

Business Issues Addressed At Summit

Ag, Broadband, I-81, Workforce DiscussedBy IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  8/9/19  WEYERS CAVE — Local business owners, regional elected officials, and Valley economic development professionals gathered for the seventh annual Valley Business Summit on Thursday at the Robert E. Plecker Workforce Center at Blue Ridge Community College in Weyers Cave.Bettina Ring, the secretary of agriculture and forestry for Virginia, gave the keynote presentation during the event’s opening ceremony, touching on subjects such as

JMU ranked among best schools in the country by Princeton Review

WHSV 8/8/19HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) — James Madison University once again made the list as one of the leading four-year institutions in the country. The school was included in Princeton Review's list of 385 Best Colleges for 2020.Colleges are chosen for the list based on academic offerings and surveys from students who are in attendance. JMU said this does not mark the first time its made the cut.Only 13 percent of four-year colleges are included on the list, according to the Princeton Review."On one hand,

BUSINESS ROUNDTABLE EVENT IN HARRISONBURG

Click here to register or email Sharon.Sykes@NFIB.org for more details.  We look forward to seeing you there!   

Fairgrounds Celebrates New Horticulture Building

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  8/8/19  HARRISONBURG — The Rockingham County Fair is one of the largest gatherings within the county and on Wednesday, the newest feature was officially ready to go.More than 60 people braved the morning thunderstorms to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Horticulture building at the fairgrounds.With the help of the community and a willingness to get the job done, Fair General Manager Rebecca Holloway welcomed attendees to the “little country store” that would

Blue Ridge Community College Unveils $21M Biosciences Building

By MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record  8/7/19  WEYERS CAVE — The high-fidelity mannequin purchased this year for the EMS training program at Blue Ridge Community College may not fool anyone by the looks of it. But when you hear what it can do, it becomes clear why this tool is at the top of the line for simulating various medical situations.Scott Vanderkooi, an EMS instructor, demonstrated how the high-fidelity mannequin can be programmed to talk, scream, have pupils dilated and breathing can be

Skyline Roofing To Build New Metal Shop, Planned Warehouse

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  8/7/19  HARRISONBURG — Skyline Roofing is building a new metal workshop and an accompanying warehouse adjacent to its offices at 2389 Grace Chapel Road in Harrisonburg.“It’s an expansion, but it’s really just kind of customized for us,” said Kevin Weaver, owner of operations for Skyline Roofing.Before moving to Grace Chapel Road in early summer, the company was in a much smaller location at 112 Meigs Lane, Weaver said.The previous building was dim with low ceilings and posts

Community Health Centers: A Guide to a Vital Network of Care

Community Health Centers are medical clinics and so much more. They are consumer-driven and patient-centered medical homes, local economic engines, and trusted community partners. They form the backbone of America’s health care safety net and play a critical role in improving health outcomes, lowering costs, and ensuring access to high-quality, integrated care. By mission and statute, the health center model requires that health centers locate in areas of greatest need and are led by representatives of

Rockingham-Harrisonburg SPCA To Hold Foster Session

By LAINE GRIFFINDaily News-Record  8/3/19  HARRISONBURG — Being in a kennel doesn’t always make a dog ready to go into a home, so what does? Fostering.The Rockingham-Harrisonburg SPCA is holding a free foster information night Tuesday at its shelter, 2170 Old Furnace Rd., from 6-7:30 p.m. to talk about what it’s like to foster an animal and the positive effects it has on the animal.“We are really trying to engage the community to learn more about it and grow our foster program more,” the local SPCA’s

Having Better Relationships : Robert McFarland's Viewpoint

Viewpoint: Robert McFarlandDNR 8/3/19  Many people want to have better relationships at work or at home, but they are unwilling to do what needs to be done to develop them.Good relationships don’t just happen. They have to be carefully cultivated. If you want to have better relationships with others, then you must be intentional and consistent in growing those relationships.Here are five ways you can develop better relationships.1. Get Real Today more than ever, people crave authenticity. They want to know

Sipe Center Ticket Sales Exceeding Expectations

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  8/5/19  BRIDGEWATER — As tickets for the new multipurpose theater, the Sipe Center, went live on Thursday, Jay Litten thought they would sell only a couple of dozen.By midday Sunday, the center had sold about 115 and rising, he said.“The response has been tremendous,” said Litten, Bridgewater’s town manager.The Sipe Center is a $ 1.3 million building for live music, theater and meetings, located on the corner of North Main and East College streets in downtown

Art Council of the Valley Now Accepting Advancing the Art Grant Applications

HARRISONBURG, VA– Arts Council of the Valley (ACV) announces its Fall 2019 ​ A d v a n cin g t h e A r t s ​ grants funding cycle, with applications due October 11 for projects occurring between November 1, 2019 and May 31, 2020.     Two free Grant Information Sessions provide an overview of the submission process and answer applicant questions regarding their proposals. Info sessions are scheduled at 5:15 pm on Thursday, September 19 and Tuesday, October 1 at the Smith House Galleries, 311 South Main

Attend the 2019 Oyster & Wine Festival On Sunny Slope Farm benefitting The Virginia Oyster Trail

Harrisonburg (Rockingham), Virginia - The Virginia Oyster Trail is celebrating National Oyster Day and Virginia’s oyster farmers and watermen by uniting Virginia’s coastal region with the Shenandoah Valley in an exquisitely fun weekend at the Oyster & Wine Festival hosted by On Sunny Slope Farm in Rockingham County, Virginia.   Enjoy unique “merroir-terroir” pairings of oysters and wine from Virginia’s signature Oyster Trial while serenaded by premiere performing artists.    Spend a leisurely Saturday

Thousands Join Library’s Summer Reading Program

By MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record 7/23/19  HARRISONBURG — Mr. Jon told the audience of children gathered at the Massanutten Regional Library on Monday afternoon that he likes to start his set off kind of silly.He didn’t disappoint as he began singing, but instead of a human voice, a clucking sound emerged. He clasped his hand over his month in faux embarrassment. When he began again, it was a cow sound, to the hilarity of the children gathered.The library has been fans of Jon Lewis for awhile and the

Dayton To Host Muddler Adventure Race

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record 7/25/19  DAYTON — Pages cover the desk of Mike Betts, a runner and the marketing and events coordinator for the town of Dayton, and they’re all about one thing — the Dayton Muddler.On Aug. 3, the town will be hosting its eighth Dayton Muddler — a 4-mile adventure race where participants will traverse mud, obstacles and even brain exercises around the small Shenandoah Valley town.Betts is expecting between 1,000 and 1,200 people — not a bad showing to an event that drew just

From Parking Lot To Barking Spot

Anicira Completes Outdoor Dog Park At Adoption CenterBy IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  7/29/19  HARRISONBURG — Anicira, an area dog adoption and veterinary organization, hosted an open house to celebrate the completion of its new dog park outside the adoption center in Harrisonburg on Saturday.“This was our vision from when we first opened our adoption center,” said Dan Chavez, operations coordinator for Anicira.The dog park is behind the group’s adoption center on North Liberty Street, which was the group’s

Stuff The Bus Looking For Volunteers

By MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record  7/30/19  HARRISONBURG — It takes a tremendous amount of volunteer time to put on an event like Stuff the Bus, which collects school supplies for area children, according to organizers.The United Way of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County needs about 350 volunteers to make the event run smoothly. Volunteers work in groups for two-hour shifts the Friday, Saturday and Sunday the event takes place.The group is currently still seeking volunteers for this year. “We do need

SVEC Welcomes Increased Solar in Power Supply Mix

ROCKINGHAM – Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative (SVEC) will be among the utilities to benefit from a new partnership between Old Dominion Electric Cooperative (ODEC) and EDF Renewables North America.   ODEC and EDF have entered an agreement to develop and build a 30MW portfolio of distributed solar projects across ODEC’s member service territories in Virginia, Maryland and Delaware. Headquartered in Glen Allen, ODEC is a not-for-profit, member-owned, power supply cooperative serving 11 distribution

Virginia Eagle and New Realm Brewing sign distribution deal

July 29, 2019    Virginia Eagle and New Realm Brewing sign distribution deal    Distribution to northern & western Virginia to begin immediately    Virginia Eagle Distributing Company (VED) — is pleased to announce that a formal distribution agreement has been signed with New Realm Brewing (New Realm).  Beginning immediately, New Realm will be offering their award-winning brand to the entire VED territory.      “This is an extremely exciting opportunity for VED,” says Scott Heinz, Chief Operating

Valley Playhouse Whisks Audiences To Neverland

By SHELBY MERTENSDaily News-Record  7/19/19  HARRISONBURG — The story of Peter Pan, the boy who wouldn’t grow up, is one that has been retold and re-imagined countless times since author J.M. Barrie first created the world of Neverland more than a century ago.Peter Pan and the Darlings’ adventures have been turned into books, Broadway theater musicals, animated and live action films, a live television performance and numerous other works.Samantha Cadieux has seen them all.“[I] live and breathe ‘ Peter

InDemand Series: Maintenance Mechanic

Date: July 10, 2019 WHSV – In this week’s look at InDemand jobs in the Valley, we’re featuring careers in mechanical work. Jonathan Kisamore, a maintenance mechanic apprentice at Tenneco in Harrisonburg, took a passion for mechanics and turned it into a career. “From a kid on, I’ve always been kind of mechanically inclined and always liked doing mechanical work,” said Kisamore. According to economic statistics from the Shenandoah Valley Workforce Development Board, the salary range for this position

BRCC Educational Foundation Announces New Board Members

FOUR NEW MEMBERS APPOINTED TO BRCC EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION BOARD   The Blue Ridge Community College Educational Foundation Board has recently appointed four new members to fill spaces vacated by outgoing members. They are Dave Metz, Tassie Pippert, Justin Rexrode, and Andy Vanhook.  Dave Metz graduated from Purdue University, served in the Navy as a communications officer and received his MBA from James Madison University. Dave and his wife, Debbie, came to Staunton to start an equipment rental business,

Report: Virginia Best State For Business

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  7/11/19  HARRISONBURG — On Wednesday, Virginia was named the top state for business in America by CNBC, a news business outlet, for the first time since 2011.Good showings on business ranking lists contribute to economic development, said Frank Tamberrino, president and CEO of the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Chamber of Commerce.Companies go through what’s called a site selection process when deciding where to conduct business, be it manufacturing, logistics, services, etc., based

New Harrisonburg High School Principal Is ‘Coming Home’

By MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record  7/11/19  HARRISONBURG — Missy Hensley comes to Harrisonburg High School from Central High School in Woodstock and said she is excited to accept the opportunity and challenge of serving as the principal.Hensley is taking the reins from Cynthia Prieto, who retired after 34 years in education with the last five as principal of HHS.Hensley has 24 years of instructional and school leadership experience. She has been a school administrator since 2004 and has served as

Sipe Center Takes Shape

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  7/10/19  BRIDGEWATER — What started as plain construction walls now has a fresh coat of “downrush midnight” paint.Bridgewater Town Manager Jay Litten gave a tour of the construction site for the town’s new $ 1.3 million multipurpose theater Tuesday, giving council members and visitors a fresh glimpse of the interior and exterior of the Sipe Center.In his report to Town Council, Litten said the building continues to progress toward an early August completion, remaining

New Dayton Town Superintendent Takes The Reins

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record 7/9/2019  DAYTON — After a job interview in May, Angela Lawrence went for a hike, one of her favorite activities, before heading back to Chase City to continue her work as a town manager.That interview was successful, and Lawrence began in her new position as the town superintendent of Dayton on Monday.Lawrence, 56, grew up in Lenexa, Kansas, but was born in Battle Creek, Michigan.“I was raised to be involved in the community,” she said.Lawrence has over 25 years of experience

Local Man Raises Over $20K For Cancer Research

By MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record  7/6/19  HARRISONBURG — A local business owner has raised over $20,000 for the American Cancer Society, specifically for breast cancer research and awareness — and he plans to raise more this year.Two years ago, the group came to speak to the Harrisonburg Rotary Club, of which Paul Riner, owner of Riner Rentals, is a member. They talked about a campaign to raise money and awareness for breast cancer called “Real Men Wear Pink.”Riner said it was a “right place, right time”

County Supervisors Remember Late Chuck Ahrend

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  6/28/19  HARRISONBURG — An advocate for agriculture, a representative for Rockingham County, but most importantly, a humorous friend.Charles “Chuck” Ahrend, 93, of Harrisonburg, died on Monday at Oak Lea Nursing Home. But the former member of the Rockingham County Board of Supervisors established his legacy long before then.Ahrend was first elected to the Board of Supervisors in 1987 where he represented the communities of Singers Glen, Edom, Melrose, Mount Clinton and

Executive Director Of Local Boys & Girls Club Named

By LAINE GRIFFINDaily News-Record  6/28/19  HARRISONBURG — The search is over. The Boys & Girls Club of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County named Sandra Quigg as the new executive director.Quigg will replace Lori Kizner, who served as the executive director for about four years but resigned in April to join her husband, Scott Kizner, who took the superintendent post in Stafford County last summer.Quigg said she is ready to take over, although she knows she has big shoes to fill.“I think I’ve always been

Harrisonburg City Public Schools Announces the selection of candidates for 3 principal positions

 Harrisonburg City Public Schools is pleased to announce the selection of candidates for three principal positions. At its July 2, 2019 meeting, the Harrisonburg City School Board approved the following appointments: Ms. Deb Cook, principal of Spotswood Elementary SchoolMr. Mark Miller, principal of Keister Elementary SchoolMs. Melissa Hensley, principal of Harrisonburg High School  Ms. Cook has 16 years of instructional and school leadership experience. She has served as assistant principal for Spotswood

Donation Provides 40,000 Meals For Area Food Bank

By JESSICA WETZLERDaily News-Record  7/1/19  VERONA — The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank provides more than 25.3 million pounds of food a year to those in need. On Friday, through a generous donation, the food bank was able to fund 40,000 of those meals.Patrick Blevins, a State Farm insurance agent covering parts of the Shenandoah Valley, donated $10,000 to the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank to feed roughly 32,000 individuals each month in the Valley.“I wanted to give back to the community and to be able to serve

F&M Bank Announces $10K Business Contest

By IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  7/2/19  HARRISONBURG — F&M Bank, a locally owned and operated financial institution, has started collecting votes for its first “Local Business You Love” contest, where the winner will receive $10,000 from the bank.“We thought it’d be a fun way for us to learn a little more about other local businesses,” said Mark Hanna, president and CEO of Timberville-based F&M Bank. “Hopefully, we can pick up a few good ideas from local businesses that we can bring to our banking

Sentara RMH Medical Center Archives Magnet Recognition

 Sentara RMH Medical Center Achieves Magnet® Recognition Again  Recognition for the second time reinforces a commitment to nursing excellence    HARRISONBURG, VA – Sentara RMH Medical Center attained Magnet recognition again in June, a testament to its continued dedication to high-quality nursing practice. The American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Magnet Recognition Program® distinguishes healthcare organizations that meet rigorous standards for nursing excellence. This credential is the highest

InDemand: Network Engineer

(WHSV) — It's a technological job that you can thrive in if you describe yourself as a "people person.""Some people see computer jobs as 'sit at your desk all day,' working on computers," said Josh King, a network engineer with IT Decisions. "That's not what this job is. You're working, out talking to people, meeting new people all the time."It's a job that offers you a "home base" with opportunities to connect your clients to the rest of the world."You're doing something different everyday," said King.

Harrisonburg Police Foundation Hosts Adventure Race

By PETE DELEADaily News-Record  6/24/19  HARRISONBURG — Over the past few years, Shannon Lokey ran a few obstacle races in several states, but for the last three years, mid- June has been dedicated to a Harrisonburg race.Lokey, 49, of Penn Laird, was among several hundred people to participate in the annual Harrisonburg Police Foundation Adventure Race at the Harper-Presgraves Training Facility on Greendale Road in Harrisonburg. The facility is home to HPD’s SWAT team’s obstacle course, which is the

Report: Widening I-81 Project A ‘Boondoggle’

Local Politicians Disagree With ConclusionsBy IAN MUNRODaily News-Record  6/22/19  HARRISONBURG — The upcoming $ 2.2 billion in improvements on Interstate 81 were included in a report called “Highway Boondoggles 5” put forward by think- tanks Frontier Group and the U.S. Public Interest Research Group. “The term boondoggle and why we decided to apply it to this sort of highway project is it’s something that is wasteful,” said Matt Casale, one of the report’s authors and transportation campaign director for

Sentara RMH Medical Center Achieves Magnet® Recognition Again

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 21, 2019CONTACT   Neil MowbrayBrand Engagement Consultant540-564-7205; 540-689-1000nwmowbra@sentara.com      Sentara RMH Medical Center Achieves Magnet® Recognition Again  Recognition for the second time reinforces a commitment to nursing excellence    HARRISONBURG, VA – Sentara RMH Medical Center attained Magnet recognition again in June, a testament to its continued dedication to high-quality nursing practice. The American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Magnet

Bridgewater Retirement Community ‘Barn Sale’ To Get New Home

By MEGAN WILLIAMSDaily News-Record  6/19/19  BRIDGEWATER — For years the Bridgewater Retirement Community hosted a large annual yard sale to raise money for BRC by selling items donated to them by members of the community.The storage of the items has moved locations over the years and will get a new home once again this summer.In 2016, donations began being stored in the old Bridgewater Rescue Squad building, which was purchased by the retirement community after the rescue squad built its current facility,

Valley Regional Airport Hosts Women Can Fly Event

‘The World From A Different Angle’Valley Regional Airport Hosts Women Can Fly EventBy PETE DELEADaily News-Record  6/17/19  WEYERS CAVE — Although her father’s a pilot, Rebeca Haun doesn’t pass up the opportunity to jump in a plane for some sightseeing.She said she enjoys seeing the Shenandoah Valley from up above.“It’s nice to see the world from a different angle,” said Haun, 18, of Rockingham County.On Saturday, Haun was among about 200 women of all ages and girls as young as 8 to participate in the

Women and girls encouraged to take flight at SHD

WEYERS CAVE, Va. (WHSV) — Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport partnered with the volunteer organization Women Can Fly on Saturday afternoon to offer a special aviation education day for women.The airport is one of six others in the commonwealth to give participants a closer look at different aircraft, meet pilots and learn about the different parts of a plane.According to the Center for Aviation, women only represent 7% of pilots.The goal of Women Can Fly is to encourage women of all ages to fly."I love the

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

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

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

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

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

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,

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,

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

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

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