Woodstock, VA – Several hundred parents, friends, and others volunteer for Shenandoah County Public Schools every year. At their June meeting, the Shenandoah County School Board expressed appreciation to all of those who volunteered during the last school year, and awarded plaques and special recognition to the Volunteers of the Year 2010.

“We could not do what we do without your help,” Gary Rutz, Chairman, commented. “We would not be what we are without your help.”

Terry Jackson, who volunteers one-half day a week in Elizabeth Horton’s kindergarten classroom at Sandy Hook Elementary School, was named Elementary Level Volunteer of the Year. Ms. Jackson, whose presence enabled Ms. Horton to spend more time with students needing individualized instruction, worked to establish a “positive, encouraging relationship with every student in Ms. Horton’s classroom.” In addition, she coordinated book fairs and made costumes for students in the school musical.

Julie Smith, who volunteers at Signal Knob Middle School on a daily basis in Ms. Noonan’s classroom, was named Middle Level Volunteer of the Year, an award she has earned for the second time. Julie assisted with a long list of events and programs at the school and according to Principal Missy Hensley, her “impact on our school is like (that) of no other individual.” A Signal Knob staff member wrote, “Julie’s efforts are evident on the walls, in the halls, and in our hearts.”

Past PTO President and current President of the After-Prom Committee, Patty Pirtle, a parent volunteer at Stonewall Jackson High School, was named the Secondary Level Volunteer of the Year. Among other events, Patty has coordinated school blood drives and the Fun-N-Funkhouser Fundraiser for the Robby Funkhouser Scholarship. Lisa Gibson, Stonewall Jackson High School Spanish teacher, credits Patty with helping to recruit and organize other volunteers at the school.

Signal Knob Middle School student Josh Stickles was honored as the Student Volunteer of the Year. Josh has helped with FFA fundraisers and activities including Hometown Strasburg’s Adopt a Stream Town clean-up and Signal Knob’s FFA Veteran’s Day Breakfast. He has volunteered at Belle Grove Plantation, worked with the Lion’s Club Food Drive, and serves as acolyte at his church. Calling Josh a “role model” and a person who never says “a negative thing about anyone,” Missy Hensley, school principal wrote, “When Josh volunteers, he volunteers whole-heartedly from the very start to the very end.”

Mark Feaster, a long-time supporter of community swim programs for children and youth and more recently a fundraiser for the swimming program for Shenandoah County Public Schools, was named the At-Large Volunteer of the Year. In his presentation to the School Board, Jeremy Raley, Director of Budget, reported that it all began in 2001, when Mark and Saundra Feaster’s sons joined the Edinburg Ducks.

In 2005, Mark became team manager and in 2006 Saundra began coaching. Under their leadership, the Ducks team has grown to 80 swimmers, the largest team in the County. When economic difficulties and budget shortages made the future of a Shenandoah County Public Schools’ Swim Team questionable, the Feasters and the Shenandoah County Swim League went to work. Their efforts raised a total of $9000 in 2008 and 2009.

Dr. B. Keith Rowland, Superintendent of Shenandoah County Public Schools asked the League to contribute $5000 as a part of the 2010-2011 budget. Mr. Raley reported that the Feasters and the league “have accepted the task.”

Warrenton, VA – Lord Fairfax Community College (LFCC) is hosting a special program at noon on Tuesday, July 13, 2010 - featuring Matt Bowman, the professional wrestler known as “Wiseguy” Jimmy Cicero. This event is free and open to the public.

Wiseguy Jimmy Cicero was trained in 1993 in Indian Trail, North Carolina by the former WWF World heavyweight Champion, The “Russian Bear” Ivan Koloff. Cicero wrestled primarily in the Carolinas in his first few years of his career, teaming with Steve Storm and Brian Perry. Cicero also traveled up to Delaware to compete in Jim Kettner’s ECWA.

In the late 1990s, Cicero started to travel all across the south, and northeast ranging from Alabama to Canada and every state in between. Along the way Cicero learned valuable lessons from Tom Brandi, Buddy Landel and Axl Rotten all of whom Cicero considers to be his mentors.

Cicero also formed several successful tag teams with the likes of Julio Dinero, Cueball Carmichael and “King of Old School” Steve Corino. More valuable lessons were learned in feuds with such notables as Balls Mahoney, Bob Backlund and Big Slam Vader.

Cicero’s good friend, then got him the opportunity to compete for the WWE. Cicero went on to be a regular Northeast-based wretler for WWE TV tapings for the next few years.

After a brief hiatus, Cicero returned to the indies where he competed for such fine promotions as Steel City Wrestling, Maryland Championship Wrestling, Southern Championship Wrestling, GOUGE, APWF, NWA NJ, KYDA and NWA 2000. Cicero settled down and hung up his boots in 2006.

In early 2009, Jimmy Cicero’s young son was diagnosed with autism. Cicero and his wife, Windra, discussed what could be done to raise awareness for this serious and prevalent disability. The answer was easy: return to the ring.

In March of 2009, Wiseguy Jimmy Cicero made his return to professional wrestling with the purpose of raising awareness for Autism. Cicero and his wife report that the promoters, fellow wrestlers and the fans have simply been tremendous. Bowman’s mission continues with his awareness campaign, “Help Wiseguy Bodyslam Autism!”

The July 13th event – part of an ongoing College guest speaker series – will be held at LFCC’s Fauquier Campus - located at 6480 College Street, in Warrenton, Virginia.

*****

For more information on the July 13th event, interested individuals may contact Sandi Pope, LFCC Student Activities Adviser, at (540) 351-1512, or email her: spope ~at~ lfcc.edu.

For more information about Bowman, visit the Wiseguy Jimmy Cicero web site.  And, don’t miss the 1st State Championship Wrestling “Bodyslam Autism” Blowout – on July 17, 2010 -  in Lewes, DE (8 miles from Ocean City, MD) – featuring Jimmy Cicero, former WWE stars Jimmy “Superfly” Snuka, Tom Brandi, Big Slam Vader, and ECW legend Axl Roten.

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Founded in 1970, Lord Fairfax Community College is a comprehensive, multi-campus public institution of higher education. Through its three locations — the Fauquier and Middletown Campuses and the Luray-Page County Center — the College serves eight localities in the Shenandoah Valley and Piedmont regions, offering more than 75 associate degree and certificate programs in a wide variety of disciplines.

Strasburg, VA – Openings are still available for the “Cool Cloverbuds” 4-H Day Camp, which will be held at the Strasburg Park from June 28-30. The camp operates from 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. daily and is open to all children who are 5-8 years old. Daily activities include crafts, games, singing, “learn by doing” programs, and swimming. Lunch, snacks, and a t-shirt are included.

Campers are supervised by adult staff members and trained 4-H volunteer teen counselors. Children do not have to be current 4-H members to enroll and a limited number of scholarships are available, based on financial need.

For more information, please contact the Shenandoah County Office of Virginia Cooperative Extension at (540) 459-6140.

Virginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services, or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact Carol B. Nansel or Nicole L. Ross, Shenandoah County Office of Virginia Cooperative Extension, at (540) 459-6140 during business hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to discuss accommodations two weeks prior to the event.

Woodstock, VA – For the 23rd year, the Rotary Club of Woodstock is holding its annual golf tournament, which is open to the public.  This year’s event is on Wednesday, June 16, 2010 at the award-winning course at Bryce Resort in Basye, VA.

The fund raiser will benefit local youth programs, including: the Woodstock/ Edinburg Midget Football & Cheer organization, Response CAP – The Child Assault Prevention project, Shenandoah County Lacrosse Club, Shenandoah County 4H, Future Farmers of America and Shenandoah County Shining Stars (a county AAU basketball program). Well over 500 local boys and girls participate in these activities.

Golfers are invited to sign up as a team, a partial team or individually. An awards banquet and prizes will follow the tournament. Registration begins at noon; the tournament begins at 1 p.m.

Chairman Blake Phillips emphasized that golfers need not be Rotarians to participate.  “We’re inviting golfers from throughout the Shenandoah Valley to support the local youth programs that will benefit from Rotary donations.”

The entry fee is $85 per player which includes two Mulligans. A complimentary bucket of range balls will be provided at driving range.  Golfers will receive courtesy discounts at the golf shop, the day of the tournament. Hole sponsorship opportunities are available to businesses, professionals, or individuals for $75.

The deadline for registration for the tournament is Wednesday, June 9. Mail checks to: Blake Phillips, 468 N. Main Street, Woodstock VA 22664, or call Blake at (540) 459-3727, or George Sheetz at (540) 984-8420.

The Rotary Club of Woodstock is part of Rotary International, a service organization of business and professional men and women with over 1.2 million members in 32,000 clubs in 200 countries.

For more details, visit the Rotary Club of Woodstock’s website.

Basye, VA – The Bryce Ladies Golf Tournament (BLGT) Committee is planning the 28th Annual Charity Tournament.  On Saturday, June 5, 2010, more than 100 women will head out to the golf course, in carts adorned with pink, white and green balloons, to have fun and raise money for a number of Shenandoah County charities.

In past years, we have successfully raised $5,000 per year for organizations such as the Orkney/Basye Fire and Rescue Department, the Shenandoah County Free Clinic, the Open Door Food Pantry, Response, Toys for Tots and the Basye Library.  We’ve also helped Habitat for Humanity, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the Silk Fund and other local and county organizations.  All net proceeds from this tournament go to nonprofit organizations in Shenandoah County.

The Planning Committee is asking for companies or individuals to consider sponsoring a hole on the golf course for $100.  All sponsors will receive special recognition for supporting this year’s tournament by having their name prominently displayed on signs to be posted on one of the 18 hole teeing areas, in the program distributed to our 100 women golfers, and in all press releases about the tournament.

A half-hole sponsorship is available for $50.  The Planning Committee also is asking for donations for their “goodie bags”.  Advertising favors, snacks and discount coupons are all much appreciated by our players.  The Committee puts together 110 bags each year and it’s a great way to “get the word out” about your company or organization to all participants.

Checks can be made payable to “BLGT” and mailed to: PO Box 414, Basye, VA, 22810, or send an email  (see below) and they’ll be glad to pick up any donations or goodie bag items.

Email Golf Tournament questions and support to the BLGT Committee: armell ~at~ shentel.net.

For more information about Bryce Resort, visit their web site.

Maurertown, VA – New to Shenandoah County Parks & Recreation’s program offerings this year is the “Cruisin’ 4 A Flush” Poker Run, which will benefit the department’s Punky Riley Scholarship Program. This unique event offers children and adults the opportunity to ride for a cause – on bikes or motorcycles.

This year’s poker run is open to motorcycles and riders and will kick-off at the Shenandoah County Park on Saturday, May 8, 2010.

Check-in/registration is at 9:00 a.m. with last bikes on the route by 11:00 a.m. Each rider will receive a card at Shenandoah County Park before they leave and once they return; they will have five (5) stops to make along the 70-mile scenic route to complete their poker hand(s). The last bikes will be due back to the park by 3:00 p.m. at which time prizes will be awarded and everyone will enjoy a cookout lunch.

The cost to participate is $15/rider & bike and $5/passenger which gets your one poker hand and a cookout lunch. Riders can buy additional poker hands for $10/hand.

There is no need to pre-register; just be on-site by 9:00 a.m. for registration at Shelter #1 (near the playground), at Shenandoah County Park, in Maurertown, VA.

In order to check the weather and event status for May 8, call the Shenandoah County Parks & Rec cancellation line by dialing (540) 984-3030, and choosing Option 9. (The raindate for this event is Saturday, May 15.

For more information, visit their web site, or call (540) 984-3030.

The Town Employees 4th Annual Classic Car Day will run from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. on May 8 at Byron Memorial Park in historic Williamsport along the Potomac River and the C & O Canal.  (The rain date is May 9, Mother’s Day.) Registration is from 8 a.m. until noon, and the voting will be from noon until 1:30.m. The Awards Ceremony will be at 3 p.m. (There’s a $10 entry fee for cars – due on show day.For more information, call Les at 301-331-0186 or Bobby at 240-527-8203.)

All makes and models of cars are welcome, and will be displayed, including: classic cars, trucks, motorcycles, custom compacts and street rods.

Dash plaques will be awarded to the first 200 entries. They’ll be trophies for all classes. Those attending the show will  also enjoy homemade breakfast sandwiches, music, food and drinks, door prizes, and a 50/50 raffle.

And the fun doesn’t stop at dark. The Cruise In & 50’s Dance will be that night, May 8, at 7 p.m. at the Springfield Farm Barn (rain or shine). Tickets are $2.00 at the door.

Those who like Arts & Crafts will also enjoy “Classic Crafts in the Park” – to be held in the Community Center in Williamsport, MD on Friday, May 7, 2010 and Saturday, May 8, 2010. The arts and crafts fair will include: Boyds Bears, candles, berry wreaths, coutry crafts and more. (To show your crafts at the Fair, call Joyce at the Briar Patch – 301-223-4599.)

The business sponsors of the 2010 Classic Car Show are: Advantage Landscape & Construction, Left Overs, NAPA Auto Parts, Denny’s Auto Machine and Osborne Funeral Home. Williamsport Classic Car Day benefits the “Christmas in the Park” program.

More About Historic Williamsport

Not far from Martinburg, WV, Williamsport, Maryland is located in the heart of the Cumberland Valley “where the serpentine, tree-embowered Conococheague Creek mildly flows at long last into the Potomac River.” Here, more than 275 years ago, smoke was rising from a few scattered cabins of a then western frontier trading post called “Conococheague”.

The native Indian name “Conococheague” means “a long way”; and the name “Potomac” means “trading place” in the Algonquin tongue. Before any settlement, the area was inhabited by Delaware and Catawba Indians.

Because of the Potomac River and C & O Canal, Williamsport has been known as the ” cross-road” and “gateway” to the South, West, and East. Settlers, travelers, and pioneer families passed through the thousands on their way south and east.

To learn more about the Williamsport and what it has to offer, visit their web site.

Front Royal, VA – Get ready to roll!  Tomorrow, April 18, 2010, in Front Royal, Virginia, men and women alike are looking forward to attending the 6th Annual Spring All Ford Car Show – hosted by the Shenandoah Valley Mustang Club.

The event will be held at the Shenandoah Ford at 9135 Winchester Road from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with check-in running between 9 a.m. and noon. Registration is $15. There will be food and music. (For more information, call 540-662-0584, or visit the web site.)

Other car shows this Spring and Summer in the Shenandoah Valley include:

** Friday, May 7 and Saturday, May 8, 2010 – Winchester, VA.

Apple Blossom Meet Antique Car Show

- Friday, May 7 – Early Bird tour departs from the Travelodge. Caravan in your vintage vehicle to see The Art Bragg antique collection. At 1:00 pm, see the largest Life Saver in the Valley and the only known Laurel & Hardy Christmas Tree. From 7:30 to  9:30 p.m., at the Travelodge, in the Banquet Room on the third floor, attend the Get-Acquainted Party/ President’s Reception.  See old friends and meet new ones. Enjoy the collectibles displayed by club members. Light refreshments will be served.

- Saturday, May 8 – Flea Market/ Vehicle Corral opens at 7 a.m. All vendors and Car Corral vehicles should use University Drive and Pleasant Valley Rd. The Flea market is located off I-81 at Exit 313 on Rt. 50 West. From 8 to 11 a.m., registration opens at Jim Barnett Park. All show vehicles (pre-registered and late) should use the 2nd Cork Street.

The Show Field is located off I-81 at Exit 313 on Route 50 West. Vehicles not permitted on show field until 8 a.m. Only AACA Pre-registered vehicles will be judged.

There will be four special attractions: a 1907 Autocar Delivery Notions Truck; a 1954 Kaiser Darrin and 1954 Kaiser Darrin Pedal Car; and a1914 Norwalk Touring (the only one known).

6 p.m. – Cash bar at the Travelodge Banquet Room.

7 p.m – Buffet dinner, awards, entertainment and raffle at the Travelodge Banquet Room.

** Saturday, May 8, 2010 – Winchester, VA.

The 2010 Matt Miller Memorial Corvette Car Show – at the Winchester Old Town Walking Mall, Loudoun Street, Winchester, VA – from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Shenandoah Valley Corvette Club is proud to present The 2010 Matt Miller Memorial Corvette Car Show on Saturday, May 8, 2010 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This event will benefit the Blue Ridge Hospice. On line pre-registration is $15.00 per vehicle entering the event and $20.00 on the day of the event.

The first 60 Corvettes checked in will be displayed on the Walking Mall. Additional participant’s vehicles will be displayed in parking lots adjoining the mall. There will be activities, music, vendors, unique shops, restaurants, and plenty for the history buff to explore. Registration will begin at 9:00 a.m. Free for attendees. Children are welcome. For more information, call (540) 858-2852, or visit their web site.

** Saturday, May 15, 2010 – Waynesboro, VA.
5th Annual Main Street Muscle Car Show. Vendors, music, raffles, and food. For information, call 540-942-6705 or 942-6644.

** Saturday, May 15, 2010 – Rocky Mount, VA.

Rising Opportunities Car and Bike Show at Benjamin Franklin Middle School on N. Main Street in Rocky Mount, Virginia.

This is an all-class Car and Bike Show. There will be  185 trophies and 60 plaques awarded, including: 2 best in show car, 1 Best in Show truck, 1 Best in Show motorcycle, and 1 Best in Show furthest traveled. (60 walnut plaques will be awarded to the first 60 to register and 180 trophies and the 180 best cars. Food, drinks,  50/50 raffle. Goody bags will be awarded on a 1st come, 1st served basis. Registration fee $20. For more information, contact James at (540) 793-2088.

** Saturday, May 22, 2010 – Waynesboro, VA.
Blue Ridge Classic Soap Box Derby and 2nd Annual Auto & Bike Show, in downtown Waynesboro. Enjoy all the excitement of a car show and watch the kids race, too. For more information, call 540-294-2374.

** Saturday, July 31, 2010 – Buena, Vista, VA

Beach Music Festival and Car Show - at Glen Maury Park, 10th Street, in Buena Vista, VA. From 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

A day full of activities featuring a classic car show, at least three beach music bands, contests, food vendors and lots of fun! Bring your lawn chairs out for a great day. Free admission. Children welcome. Call (800) 555-8845 or visit the Glen Maury web site.

** August 7, 2010 – Hot Springs, VA.

The Wings & Wheels FlyIn & Car Show will take place from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Ingalls Field Airport in Hot Springs, Virginia.

This event is a car show, military static display, and aerial show all in one! It’s sponsored by the Bath County Airport Authority, the Bath County Chamber of Commerce, the Bath County Parks & Recreation, and the Bath County Sheriff’s Office.

For more information, contact Becky at 540-839-5326.

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More car shows will be added as we learn about them. If you have a car show you want promoted here on 7Bends.com, email your information to: Editor at 7Bends.com.

These are great events to attend to celebrate Mothers Day or Fathers Day. Take a road trip together and have some fun!

Woodstock, VA – Taking one class can make a difference. It was a typical Sunday afternoon at Central High School’s old gym where Shenandoah County Parks & Recreation’s 35 & Over Men’s Basketball League teams were playing a league game.  During the late afternoon, Greg Long, a 36-year-old player on the Seasonal Color Landscape & Lawn team, collapsed after playing the first half and resting during half-time. Seth Wymer, an SCPR Recreational Aide, went to get Terri Wymer, the SCPR Gym Supervisor in charge, while Matt Sherfey, an SCPR Recreational Aide, called 911.

Terri Wymer assessed Greg’s situation and began CPR because Greg was not breathing and he didn’t have a pulse.  She received CPR assistance from two other players, Kevin Fadely and John Reynolds, while Bill Simmons retrieved the school’s AED.  Once the AED returned, Terri attached the AED and administered a shock to Greg; Greg was briefly revived but quickly lost a pulse.

The staff and team players were in the midst of another round of CPR when Woodstock Rescue arrived and provided care to Greg.  Greg was transported to Shenandoah Memorial Hospital and then later transferred to Winchester Medial Center where he received two stents on Monday, April 12 due to a severe blockage of his heart’s vessels.  As of April 13, Greg is resting comfortably and feeling better; he should be released toward the end of this week.

“We are extremely proud of our staff and the team players who were on-site at Central on Sunday.  They remembered their training and acted swiftly and heroically to save Greg’s life,” stated Pam Sheets, Shenandoah County Parks & Recreation Director.

“In this adrenaline-filled rescue situation, Terri, Seth, John, Kevin, and Bill all acted quickly to help their friend and teammate; we are grateful for everyone’s help, including the staff from Woodstock Rescue, and wish Greg a very speedy recovery.”

This situation is a perfect example of how important being trained in CPR/AED and First Aid can be in situations like this.  Knowing what to do and how to help an injured person can save time in getting rescue personnel on-site to assist with the emergency.   Terri Wymer is certified in American Red Cross First Aid and American Heart Association CPR/AED.

For more information about this life-saving story, contact the Shenandoah County Parks & Recreation Depart5ment at (540) 984-3030

For more information on when and how to sign up for a first aid or CPR class, contact the Shenandoah chapter of the American Red Cross at (540) 459-2913.

Shenandoah Valley, VA – Look at all of these fun events scheduled up and down the Valley this cold Winter month. Grab your family and friends and enjoy January!

Winchester
- January 9 and 10, 2010
Visiting Artist Series presents “Poetry and Reading” with Maggie Stetler at the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum, 54 South Loudoun Street. This program is free for children, with a museum paid admission. 540-722-2020.

Luray
- January 9, 16, 23, 2010
“Quest for the Stars” fifth season auditions. Meet at the Board of Supervisors Room, Page County Courthouse in Luray on the 9th, 16th and at the Community Center in Shenandoah on the 23rd. To register call 540-743-1180.

Strasburg
- January 10, 2010
The Strasburg High School’s old gym, 250 Ram Drive, will be the site of the “1.10.10 Concert” of the decade. Featuring “Diamondback” from 1-2 p.m., “Exit 9” from 2-2:30 p.m., “Revolution” from 2:30-3:30 p.m., Rhonda & Rachel Sager & Doug Arthur from 3:30-4 p.m., “Aces & Eights” from 4-5 p.m., “Complimentary Colors” from 5-5:30 p.m., Johnny & the Vault Cats from 5:30-6:30 p.m., Robbie & Forest Limon from 6:30-7 p.m. “Covenant” from 7-8 p.m. Benefit concert for Strasburg Youth in Arts. Admission fee. 540-465-2302.

Harrisonburg
- January 14, 3010
Court Square Theater presents Darren Beachly and the “Legends of the Potomac”. Pairing old school talent with contemporary bluegrass creativity and drive. Admission fee. 540-433-9189.

- January 15-30, 2010
Eastern Mennonite University, 1200 Park Road, presents the following movies in the Science Center. “The Invention of Lying” on the 15th-16th; “Good Hair” on the 22nd-23rd; “Where the Wild Things Are” on the 29th-30th. 540-432-4362.

- January 17, 2010
Special Martin Luther King celebration and special service. Worship, movie show, and small group discussion at the Eastern Mennonite University’s Common Grounds Coffee House. 540-432-4458.

- January 31, 2010
James Madison University presents the River North Chicago Dance Co. under the direction of Frank Chavas. The jazz-based contemporay company embodies a true flavor of “Americana” in their dynamic repertoire. 540-568-6211.

- January 31, 2010
Polar Bear Swim from 3-6 p.m. Enjoy a free family swim in the middle of winter. Join us for water games, prizes, edible snowballs (snow-cones), and hot chocolate. 540-433-9168.

Staunton
- January 17, 2010
The Stonewall Jackson Hotel and Conference Center, 24 South Market Street, presents “The Valley’s Premier Bridal Showcase”, from 1-4 p.m. Catch the latest bridal fashion, and meet a variety of vendors. Also a hors D’oeuvre sampling. Admission fee of  $7.00. 540-885-4848.

Fishersville
- January 19-21, 2010
The Virginia Farm Show will be held at Augusta Expoland. In addition to exhibits of all the major lines of equipment and services there is a “Skid Steer Rodeo” for all the attendees to watch as well as participate in.  540-943-3976 or 1-800-218-5586.

- January 23-31, 2010
Augusta Expoland events: Pro Wrestling on the 23rd; Gun Show on the 30th-31st. For more information call 540-337-2525.

SPECIAL EVENTS

STARGAZING
Do you want to learn how to find the constellations or the North Star?  Do you want to take a long look at another planet and its moons?  How about viewing a Ring Nebula or a Double Star?  August’s event is tied to the annual Perseid meteor showers; because of that, we’ve added a rain date in hopes of getting one good night for stargazing!  This event is for all ages; please bring the entire family!  Bring a picnic chair, your binoculars or your own telescope, a flashlight, and dress for the nighttime temperatures.   The hosts will provide telescopes and instruction.  There is no pre-registration needed, but please be sure to check the cancellation line at 984-3030, Option 9, before heading to the park.  For ALL ages!  FREE!
DAY    TIME    SESSIONS        LOCATION
Sat.    5:00pm    January 9        Shenandoah County Park, Maurertown

ANNUAL WINTER ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW
As the winter season gets going, please mark your calendar for this annual tradition.  Get your craft items ready to sell or just plan to attend and shop for those special birthday or anniversary gifts.  The show is set for Saturday,  March 6, 8:00am-3:00pm at Peter Muhlenberg Middle School.  Admission is FREE for the public.  If you’re interested in attending as a vendor, please contact SCPR for an application.  Tables are available for $20 or $35.

YOUTH PROGRAMS

SILLY SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS
(Ages 5-12 yrs.).  Do you like to make things and experiment?  Join us for the eight-week course in which we investigate and perform silly science experiments.  Even if science isn’t your thing, children will be sur to enjoy the many different approaches to science that will be presented.  Class will run on Mondays, January 4-March 8 (no class 1/18 or 2/15), 3:30-5:00pm at Central High School.  The cost is $30/child and the deadline to register is December 23.

COLORING FOR FUN
(Ages 2-4 yrs.).  Here’s a chance to do some great coloring while socializing with other children!  Each week will be a different coloring theme; all coloring sheets and crayons will be provided.  Coloring for Fun will be held on Mondays, January 4-March 1, 10:00-11:00am at the Edinburg School.  The cost is $10/child and the deadline to register is December 30.

WATERCOLORING FOR FUN
(Ages 2-4 yrs.).  What can be more fun that watercoloring with your friends?  Bring your pre-schooler for some watercoloring fun while socializing with other pre-schoolers and their parents.  Each will will have a different theme, and all supplies will be provided.  Watercoloring for Fun will be held Wednesdays, January 6-March 3, 10:00-11:00am at the Edinburg School.  The cost is $15/child and the deadline to register is December 30.

DANCING THROUGH THE WINTER
Rhythm, movement, music, and making dancing FUN!  This is a quality dance program in a positive and enthusiastic environment, which boosts self-confidence, positive peer interaction, fosters teamwork, and encourages children to be the best at whatever it is they choose to do.  At the end of the session, dancers will provide a dancing performance.  For ages 4-6 yrs., class will be held on Wednesdays, January 6-February 10, 5:00-5:45pm at the Edinburg School.  For ages 7-9 yrs., class will be held on Wednesdays, January 6-February 10, 6:00-6:45pm at the Edinburg School.  The cost is $40/child and the deadline to register is January 4.

ROCKIN’ ROBIN RECREATION
(Ages 5-12 yrs.).  Does your child need something to do after school?  Check out Rockin’ Robin Recreation as this class offers fun games and activities and gives your child a chance to socialize with all of their friends.  Please send a snack with your child.  This class will run on Tuesdays, January 19-February 9, 3:30-5:00pm.  Cost is $30/child and the deadline to register is January 18.

AMERICAN RED CROSS BABYSITTER’S TRAINING
(Ages 11-15 yrs.)  This course is fun and fast-paced with hands-on activities, exciting videos, role plays, and lively discussions.  You’ll gain the confidence to make smart decisions and stay safe in any babysitting situation.  You’ll learn how to supervise children and infants, perform basic child-care skills such as diapering and feeding, choose safe, age-appropriate games and toys, handle bedtime and discipline issues, identify safety hazards and prevent injuries, care for common injuries and emergencies such as choking, burns, cuts and bee stings.  You’ll receive a first-aid kit and handbook along with a certificate of completion.  Please register with the American Red Cross by calling 459-2913.  Class will be held on Saturday, January 9, 9:00am-5:00pm, and the ARC office in Woodstock.

LITTLE TYKES SOCCER
(Ages 3-6 yrs.)  All participants will learn the basics of how to kick, dribble, and shoot.  Kids will receive a kit to keep so they can train all year-round in their backyard.  Parents are encouraged to help out with their little all-star while our instructor provides class instruction to everyone.  This class will run on Saturdays, January 9-February 13, 8:30-9:30am at the Edinburg School.  The cost is $35/child and the deadline to register is December 30.

LITTLE TYLES T-BALL
(Ages 3-6 yrs.)  All participants will learn the basics of how to catch, throw, and swing.  Kids will receive a kit to keep so they can train all year-round in their backyard.  Parents are encouraged to help out with their little hitter while our instructor provides class instruction to everyone.  This class will run on Saturdays, February 20-April 3, 8:30-9:30am at the Edinburg School.  The cost is $35/child and the deadline to register is February 12.

ALL AGES PROGRAMS

INTERMEDIATE ROUND DANCING
(All Ages)  Location:  Edinburg School, Edinburg.  Round dancing sessions include learning the Waltz, 2-Step, and many more round dances.  Sessions:  Thursdays and Sundays, January 14 & 28, February 11 & 25, and March 11 & 25, 6:00-9:00pm.  The cost is $4/session.  Pay at the door.

SQUARE DANCING
(All Ages)  Location:  Edinburg School, Edinburg.  Join this group as a drop-in anytime for fun and fitness with basic line and square dancing.  Casual dress.  Sessions:  Sundays, January 10 & 24, February 14 & 28, and March 14 & 28, 6:00-7:00pm.  The cost is $3/session for adults and $1/session for children; all children must be accompanied by an adult.  Pay at the door.

OPEN GYM – BASKETBALL
Shenandoah County Parks and Recreation will hold an OPEN Gym for all basketball players every Wednesday evening from 8:00-10:00pm at the gym in Edinburg.  Cost will be $1 per person; starting January 6, the cost will be $2 per person.  Call for more info if needed.

THE ART OF BASKETRY
(Ages 16 and over)  Location:  944 Moose Road, Woodstock.  These successful basket classes are back for the winter months!  During the cold winter months, come inside where it’s warm and try your hand at basketmaking.  In January, you will make a Bushel Basket with handles to carry around all those books.  The basket will be 8” x 5”.  In February, you will make a You’ve Got Mail Basket to carry all of that mail and those magazines.  The basket will be 3” x 8” x 10” and will include a wire wall hanger to put anywhere in your house.  January’s class will run on January 21, 5:30-9:00pm and February’s class will run on February 18, same time.  The cost is $25/person and the deadline to register is the Wednesday before each class.

BEGINNING BANJO
(Ages 10+).  Learn to play the 3-Finger “Scruggs” and melodic style banjo.  This class will get students started on the chord shapes and right hand rolls needed for basic banjo.  There will also be an introduction to reading “tab” as a means of learning songs, and also the basics of picking out a song by ear.  Students will need to have a 5-string banjo and tuner.  Two classes will be held on Mondays, 7:00-8:00pm:  January 4-25 and February 1-22.  The cost is $80/person and the deadline to register is the Wednesday before each class.

NON-BEGINNER BANJO
(Ages 10+).  This class is for students that have already learned the basic rolls and chords and are ready to progress through some songs.  A purchase of a songbook in tab format is recommended.  Students need to have a 5-string banjo and tuner.  Two classes will be held on Mondays, 8:00-9:00pm:  January 4-25 and February 1-22.  The cost is $80/peson and the deadline to register is the Wednesday before each class.

FITNESS

ZUMBA
(Ages 13 and over.)  Zumba is a type of international dance that combines the fundamental elements of fitness with dancing fun.  Zumba utilizes the principles of fitness, burns calories, tones muscles, incorporates full range of motion, improves the cardiovascular system, utilizes balance, and improves coordination.  Come get fit while getting your groove on!  Classes will run on Tuesdays and Thursdays, December 1-22, January 5-28, and February 2-25, 7:00-7:45pm at W.W. Robinson. Cost is $52/student for full class or $8/class drop-in fee; the December class fee is $45.50 or $8 drop-in fee.

PILATES
(For ages 13 and over.)  Pilates is a form of exercise that uses concise controlled movements focusing on the body’s core to improve flexibility and posture.  The moves are smooth, slow, continuous, and focused on strength, stability, and alignment.  You will need a Pilates mat and lightweight exercise band.  Classes will run on Tuesdays, January 5-26 and February 2-23, 6:00-6:45pm, at W.W. Robinson.  Classes will also run on Thursdays, January 7-28 and February 4-25, same time and location.  The cost is $26/student for full class or $8/class drop-in fee.

HATHA YOGA
(For ages 12 and over.)  De-stress and revitalize with yoga.  This class will teach you breathing, balancing, and relaxation techniques that stimulate the spine and nervous system, endocrine glands, and muscles of the physical body.  Yoga is a great way to end a stressful day and go home stress-free.  You can pay the full class fee or the drop-in fee each night.  Classes will run on Mondays, January 4-February 8, at either Sandy Hook ES or W.W. Robinson.  SHES’ class will run from 5:30-6:45pm and the WWRES’ class will run from 7:30-8:45pm.  The cost is $50 (full fee) or $10/class drop-in fee.  Please bring a mat or rag rug to class.

BELLY DANCING
(For ages 16 and over.)  Belly dance is one of the oldest, simplest, and most effective ways to achieve and maintain fitness.  Participants will learn the basic moves, while improving flexibility, posture, balance, and muscle tone.  This is a very low-impact workout, ideal for women of all age groups, shapes, and sizes.  No previous experience needed.  You can pay the full class fee for the drop-in fee each night.  Classes will run on Mondays, December 14-February 1 at Sandy Hook ES or on Tuesdays, December 15-February 2 at Peter Muhlenberg ES.  Both sessions run 7:00-8:00pm.  Cost is $42/class (full fee) or $8/class drop-in fee.

INTRODUCTION TO TAI CHI
(Ages 18 and over)  Are you looking for an exercise to not only build muscles, but also enhance your mind?  Well, we have the class for you.  Tai Chi is the original core fitness exercise system.  Traditional Yang Family is the most popular style in Chine (and the world).  The large, energetic, graceful and slow movements are derived from traditional Chinese Medical theory and martial arts.  This class will focus on the fundamentals of Tai Chi and the traditional barehand form.  This class will run on Mondays, January 4-February 22, 7:00-8:30pm at the Edinburg School.  The cost is $60/person and the deadline to register is December 30.

BUS TRIPS

NYC:  ON YOUR OWN!
(For ages 8 and over).  Join SCPR as we spend some time in the Big Apple!  Join us in New York City for an overnight on-your-own trip.  You can visit the museums, check out Central Park, see a Broadway matinee, shop until you drop, and enjoy some nightlife.  We will be departing the Woodstock Lowe’s parking lot at 6:00am on Saturday, April 24, 2010 and will arrive NYC at approx. 11:00am.  We’ll be staying in mid-town Manhattan within walking distance of most NYC landmarks.  We will depart NYC at 3:00pm on Sunday, arriving back in Woodstock at approx. 9:00pm.  Included is a continental breakfast on Sunday, your transportation, all taxes, and baggage fees.  NYC maps and city info. will be provided to you before the trip so that you can plan your free time.  When registering, please indicate your roommate’s name.  The cost of this trip is $215/person (single or double occupancy), $187/person (triple occupancy), or $172/person (quadruple occupancy), and the deadline to register is March 12, 2010.

LET’S GO SKIING AT WHITETAIL RESORT
(Ages 18 and over)  If you enjoy snow skiing and a lot of excitement, this bus trip is for you as we travel to Whitetail Resort in PA.  Whitetail has 21 trails designed for skiers of all abilities.  This would be a great Christmas gift or just a fun getaway.  We will be leaving the Lowe’s parking lot in Woodstock at 8:00am and departing from Whitetail at 9:30pm.  All meals will be on your own.  The price includes transportation, ski, and snowboard rentals.  There is a $10 fee if you wish to switch equipment after check-in.  Also, tubing is available for a separate fee; sessions vary, so check the resort’s website before we go.  This trip is set for Saturday, February 27; the cost is $118/person and the deadline to register is February 10.”

How to register

All registration can be done in-person at Shenandoah County Parks and Recreation, 508 Piccadilly Street, in Edinburg, VA 22824, via their online registration system , or people can mail or fax their registration forms.  Registration forms are available at the office or online. The office is open Monday-Friday, 8:30 am – 12:00 pm, and 1:00- 5:00 pm. Their fax number is 540-984-8032.

Millbrook, VA – Perfect for a day trip from D.C. or Northern Virginia …

Rain or shine, the famous Long Branch Historic House and Home 13th Annual Shenandoah Valley Hot Air Balloon, Wine and Music Festival will be happening this weekend - October 16, 17, and 18, 2009. Balloons will be launched weather permitting.

The hours of the Festival are as follows:
- Friday, October 16th – 4 pm to 8 pm
- Saturday, October 17th – 7 am to 4 pm
- Sunday, October 18th – 7 am to 4 pm

About the location:

Located at the foot of the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, just sixty miles from Washington D.C., and 20 minutes from Winchester, VA, the Long Branch Historic House & Farm is one of the most historic elegant manor homes in Virginia hunt country. Since the early 18th century, the rolling hills of Long Branch have been owned by a series of famous men:  Lord Culpeper, Lord Fairfax, and Robert “King” Carter.  A young George Washington helped to survey the property.

In 1986, Harry Z. Isaacs, a Baltimore textile executive, purchased the estate at public auction.  His good taste, remarkable energy, and sizable fortune revitalized the historic house in less than three years. Before he died in 1990, Mr. Isaacs established a private non-profit foundation to manage the estate for enjoyment and education of its visitors.

Long Branch serves as a site for a wide variety of seasonal events in the Clarke County community, including educational activities, the annual Easter Egg Hunt, the Trout Fishing Derby, a Christmas Gala & Twilight tours and most notably, the Shenandoah Valley Hot Air Balloon, Wine & Music Festival. The property, with its outdoor terrace, has become a very popular site for weddings and other special events. In addition, the farm serves as a horse retirement facility with as many as 85 equine residing at the estate.

This Year’s Hot Air Balloon, Wine and Music Festival:

This weekend, in commemoration of the 70th anniversary of The Wizard of Oz, children will be able to witness the last stop of the nationwide debut of the Wizard of Oz hot air balloon. In addition, there will be a Wizard of Oz costume contest at the Nalls Farm Market tent – in the Kiddie’s Korner.

Details about the hot air balloons:
Hot air balloons fly before sunrise and before sunset, weather permitting. Tethered balloons are operational weather permitting.  For safety reasons, weather and wind conditions must be perfect in order for balloons to fly and/or tether.

Most, if not all, of the balloon flights this year will be quite short (less than two miles) with the intention of landing on the Long Branch property. If you are interested in reserving a balloon ride, email one of the following pilots for more information:
- Amy Goodyear  -  amyct2005 at yahoo.com
- Craig Korsgard – inflt2 at aol.com
- Mark MacSkimming – eagleA7 at aol.com
- Jan Miller – balloon at shentel.net
- Ty Parsons – par.ty99 at yahoo.com

Admission prices are:
Friday, October 16th – $5 per person
Saturday, October 17th – $15 per person
Sunday, October 18th – $10 per person
Wine Tasting – $10 per person
Historic House Tours – $5 per person
Admission is free for children 12 years old and younger

The Festival is held rain or shine. Balloons fly weather permitting.
Picnics are welcome. Some activities require a nominal fee to participate.

Here is the 2009 live music line-up:

- Friday, October 16:
The Shenandoah Sheiks – 5 pm to 8 pm

- Saturday, October 17:
No Drama – 12 pm to 2 pm
Souled Out – 2 pm to 4 pm

- Sunday, October 18:
Sunshine and the Rainmakers – 10 am
James Leva and Purgatory Mountain – 11 am to 12 pm
Nothin’ Fancy – 12 pm to 1 pm
IIIrd Tyme Out – 1 pm to 2 pm
Purgatory Mountain – 2 pm to 3 pm
Nothin’ Fancy – 3 pm to 4 pm
IIIrd Tyme Out – 4 pm to 5 pm

For antique car show enthusiasts, Yesterday’s Cruisers, Inc will also present the 12th Annual Balloon Fest Car Show.

Participating wineries include:

Barren Ridge Vineyards, Chateau Morrisette, Corcoran Vineyards, Gadino Cellars, Kluge Estate Winery & Vineyards, Horton Vineyards, North Mountain Vineyard & Winery, Peaks of Otter Winery, Philip Carter Winery, Rebec Vineyards, Inc., Rockbridge Vineyard, Stone Mountain Vineyard, Tarara Winery, Veramar Vineyard, Veritas Vineyard & Winery, Willowcroft Farm Vineyards, and Wintergreen Winery.

Directions:

- From Washington, D.C.:  Go west on Interstate Route 66 to exit 23 and proceed on Route 17 north.  Turn left on Route 50 at Paris.  Just past Millwood, turn left on Route 624/Red Gate Road and proceed ½ mile.

- From Northern Virginia:  Take the Capital Beltway to Interstate Route 66 west.  Follow the directions above.

- From I-81:  Take exit 313 and proceed approximately 13 miles on Route 50 east.  Turn right on Route 624/Red Gate Road and proceed ½ mile.

*****

For more information, call (877) 868-1811. To see the full schedule of events for the weekend, visit the Festival web site.

Winchester – The Washington Redskins cheerleaders will pose for pictures with fans at the grand re-opening of the Sprint store at 1921 S. Loudoun Street in Winchester, Virginia. The event is being held Friday, October 9 from noon until 2 p.m. The official ribbon cutting will be at noon on October 9.

Sprint is inviting everyone to come on down. There will be door prizes, free food, and special deals on the latest Sprint cell phones.

The Redskins Cheerleaders make more than 300 appearances every year at corporate, community and charity events. You can read more about them on the official Redskins Cheerleaders web site. The web site features profiles of each cheerleader, as well as gifts, such as their popular Washington Redskins Cheerleaders calendar.

Woodstock – A bowl-a-thon will be sponsored by the Woodstock Rotary Club at Mountain View Lanes on Saturday, October 24.  Anyone interested in forming or sponsoring a team or bowling on a team is welcome to participate.

Each team has five people.  Each team member is expected to raise $100 from sponsors.  All funds raised will go toward the popular Coats for Kids project. This is the seventh year that the Rotary Club is sponsoring the project for Woodstock area children in need.   Kids get to choose a new coat worth up to $40 from the current line at Wal-Mart, which has contributed $1,000 to this community project.

Mountain View Lanes has donated the use of their entire facility to the Rotary Club for this event.  Every cent raised goes for coats.  All time, effort and prizes associated with the event are donated.  Chairman of the bowl-a-thon is Jeff Aimonetti of Aimonetti Insurance in Woodstock.

Anyone interested in forming a team or bowling on a team can call Jeff Aimonetti at (540) 459-2220 for details, or stop in at a Rotary Club meeting which is held each Wednesday at noon at the American Legion Hall, Muhlenberg Street in Woodstock, Virginia.

Shenandoah County Public Schools are proud to announce the following local sports and ag-related accomplishments:

1. Central High School - Ashley Ebersole, a 2009 graduate of Central High School, has been recognized for many honors in athletics this past year. Ashley was an outstanding student and was in the top ten of her graduating class. Ashley was in the advanced studies curriculum and took numerous advanced placement courses. She was treasurer of the National Honor Society, president of Future Educators Associations and was nominated for Girls State.

Ashley was a three-year starter in basketball, and excelled in softball as a three-year starter at the catcher position. This spring, at Central, she was awarded the Outstanding Softball Player and named the Outstanding Female Athlete at Central. She also has received additional awards as a student athlete. She has been student athlete of the week for both KCY and WHSV student athlete recognition programs. She received the distinguished honor of being named Student Athlete of the Year by WHSV TV and was presented a plaque and a $1000 scholarship. Next year, she will be playing both softball and basketball at Emory and Henry College.

2. State Agriscience Student of the Year – Aaron Heishman was named the State Agriscience Student of the Year winner receiving a $500 scholarship. His application was based on the amount of agriscience research he has completed since entering FFA in addition to his normal studies. In order to qualify for the event, participants are required to conduct lengthy, ongoing research projects using applications and new technologies learned in the high school agriculture classes.

Aaron has completed experiments based on his Supervised Agricultural Experience Programs. Each state can send two applications to nationals for consideration and his application will move on to Nationals for competition.

3. The 83rd Annual State FFA Convention – was held at Virginia Tech June 22-25. Over 1,400 members participated in the Convention, representing over 10,800 members and 160 chapters from the state. At the Convention, the Central FFA Chapter earned a gold rating, placing it among the top 15 chapters in the state in the overall chapter contest. This contest takes into account all of the activities conducted by a chapter throughout the year.

In addition, Central also won the chapter forestry and wildlife award for conserving and preserving the environment around them, and received recognition in the areas of: 100% Membership, a Gold Public Relations award, a Superior Chapter Award, and was recognized by the Virginia FFA as a gold National Chapter winner.

Individual State FFA achievements included:
- Aaron Heishman received a gold rating and will compete at the National FFA Convention in October. His project was how do ionophores effect gram positive and gram negative bacteria in the rumen.
- Michael Marston competed in the Agriscience Fair CDE Zoology category; He performed and experiment on animal pH. He received a silver rating.
- Dyllan Chapins and Rachel Leeth also received a silver rating for their experiment on photosynthesis and respiration.
– The Agricultural Sales team from Central also placed first in the state. This team included Donnie Cummins, Cody Ross, Brian Walsh and Aaron Heishman.
- Travis Shipp, Corey Peer, Marshall Brill and Jake Bowers competed in the Environmental and Natural Resource Career Development Event. The students took and individual test and then completed identification and problem solving of environmental issues as a team. They placed 4th, which earned them the right to participate in the presentation portion of the contest.
- Dyllan Chapins, Rachel Leeth, Aaron Heishman and Michael Marston competed in the Veterinary Science Contest. Each student identified various breeds from small and large animals as well as reptiles, identified anatomy and physiology of animals and completed a test on veterinary science.
- The Crops Judging Career Development Event team members were Ambrosia Church, Clay Foltz and Andrew Selby. The team had to evaluate classes of corn, soybeans, wheat, barley, hay, pasture sod, and other crops, and identify 25 seeds and plants.
- Cody Ryman participated in the job interview career development event. Cody went through a rigorous interview, developing a resume, cover letter and letter of application. He also completed a follow up letter.
- Willie Elgin placed first in the Agricultural Sales Placement Proficiency Award. Cody Ryman was a state winner in the Agricultural Services Placement Proficiency Award. Michael Marston was a state winner in sheep production entrepreneurship.
- Aaron Heishman was State Winner in Diversified Agricultural Production Entrepreneurship and State Runner up in Specialty Animal Entrepreneurship, Diversified Livestock Entrepreneurship and Beef Production. (Proficiency awards are based on a member’s records kept on their Supervised Agricultural Experiences where they receive hands on career training. Area winners received $25 and state winners received $200. Willie, Cody, Michael and Aaron’s applications have been sent to national for competition.)
- Jake Bowers, Donnie Cummins, Cody Ryman, Brittney Herald, Joshua Ortiz, Ashley Hawkins, Lauren Ross and Travis Shipp were all awarded the State FFA Degree, the highest degree awarded on the state level.
- The Central FFA Chapter also has two American Degree Candidates that will receive the award in October; they are Joe Gochenour and Kyle Rhodes.
- Donnie Cummins received a $1000 scholarship from the National FFA and Wix Filters.

4. Agriscience Teacher of the Year – In similar news, Sherry Heishman received the Virginia Agriscience Teacher of the Year award and her application will advance to the national level.

Get ready Warren County! On Saturday, July 25, they’re throwing a huge party in honor of Army Staff Sgt. Arthur “Bunky” Woods, a 26-year-old soldier and Front Royal resident who was injured while serving our country.
The bash – called “Bikers for Bunky” – is open to everyone, and will be held at the Warren County Fairgrounds from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m.. The event is a fundraiser to benefit Homes For Our Troops.

They’ll be a charity run which will begin at 9 a.m. at Creative Coatings, at 116 Success Road not far from the Fairgrounds. You’re invited to join in the gathering which will feature live music by “Sinners Trail,” food, a motorcycle show, raffles, and vendors.
Rolling Thiunder – Virginia Chapter 1, Big Daddy’s BBQ, Apple Muntain Kettle Korn, American Quick Print, and Creative Coatings, Inc. are all sponsors. Over 500 people are expected. For more information, call (540) 636-7911.

Judging by the amount of traffic to, and the number of emails and phone calls regarding our first article on the Old Dominion 100,  there is considerable interest locally in this rather extreme sport that has been playing out right here in the Shenandoah Valley over the past 31 years.

In first place, in the time of 18 hours, 35 minutes and 32 seconds was Jason Lantz, age 28 from Pennsylvania. A little over an hour behind, in second place was Brad Hinton, 33, of Virginia with a time of 19 hours, 39 minutes and 9 seconds.

Scott Brockmeier, 47, from Georgia was a close, little more than 12 minutes behind, third with a time of 19 hours, 51 minutes and 50 seconds, followed by Greg Geerdes, 39, from Virginia at 20 hours, 56 minutes and 34 seconds, for fourth place.

The first woman to finish was Liz Bauer, 50, from Georgia, with a time of 22 hours, 44 minutes and 25 seconds, a quite respectable 8th place overall.

The races official website at http://www.olddominionrun.org/ lists a total of 12 runners crossing the finish line in under 24 hours, and a total of 22 finishers with the last, and oldest runner, Allan Holtz, 59, from Minnisota finishing in 27 hours, 30 minutes and 38 seconds.

We at 7Bends salute the training, dedication, stamina and courage of all the runners, from last to first, as well as the behind the scene support that goes into the race each year. Watching a few of the runners come in at the Elizabeth Furnace aid station, nearly 75 miles into the race, was a convincing eye-opener as to just what is involved in a run of this magnitude.

JUNE 6, 2009, 4:00 AM

Our thanks to Marcy McCann out at the Shenandoah County fairgrounds for this one. The Old Dominion, one hundred mile endurance race started today in Woodstock Virginia. The original race is a Measured loop trail through the Massanutten Mountains, Shenandoah River Valley and Fort Valley Virginia, with 14 significant climbs, and 14,000 feet of gain. The course is planned as a fair test of endurance running. 100 miles cross- country in one day is a worthy challenge.

The first week of June, by proclamation, is Endurance Run Week in Shenandoah County. In 2008 there were 22 finishers and 12 bucklers. First place was Jason Lantz, in 19 hours and 49 minutes followed by Keith Knipling in 19 hours and 56 minutes. A little over an hour later Jamey Groff finished third, at 21 hours and 23 minutes and Neal Gorman, fourth at 22:18:45.

We’ll have photos and more on this fascinating story later today, as information becomes available.

THE START

The race starts at 4 a.m. from the Shenandoah County Fairgrounds, located in Woodstock, Virginia, the County Seat.

THE FIRST SIX MILES
The first six miles of the course travel through historic Woodstock. Here, the fighting minister, Peter Muhlenberg preached his sermon then removed his robe to reveal the Revolutionary uniform and led his fellow townmen out to win liberty, saying “there is a time to pray and a time to fight.”

SIX TO THIRTY-FIVE MILES
Reaching the Shenandoah River at Burnshire Dam, the course crosses by bridge, approaches its first major ascent to Woodstock Gap on a steep gravel switchback and enters the George Washington National Forest. Descending into Fort Valley’s natural fortress, created by the encircling Massanutten Mountains, is more gradual until approx. 10 mi. upon reaching the fairly rugged 2.5 mi. Lavender Trail up and along the West ridgeline, then down to a Forest Service road winding into the Foley Loop on country roads and leading to another stretch of good country which gives way to the climb up to the 675 Overlook and continuing down to Four Points #1 at approximately 32.5. Here the course enters Duncan Hollow on trail that exacts the “just do it” attitude, but does lead to good footing for five miles on Crisman Hollow.

MORELAND GAP AND MORE
The course turns to climb Moreland Gap with good footing, reaching Edinburg Gap at 55 miles and enters Powell Mountain Trail. The next eight miles have become a heavily utilized ATV route. Ascending Opechee Peak the trail becomes rugged and steep. The last half, still rugged is not so steep. Reaching Little Fort Campground the course turns up Woodstock Mountain on forest road for five miles to Mudhole Gap. The next mile is trail as lovely as any you will ever visit, running with Little Passage Creek and through it five times.

LOGGING ROAD
The course turns onto a fine logging road leading to a turn onto a short, rocky, trail, then crossing the Valley Road, Passage Creek by bridge and into Elizabeth Furnace Picnic Area, the Second and final Medical Check at 74.95 miles. This is the only point with a cut-off time. Runners much check-out of Elizabeth Furnace by midnight. The next three miles are best left undescribed but are summed up in the phrase “Sherman Gap”. Rumor has it that the gap was not named for any great explorer but rather for the first (and possibly the last) endurance race runner to try to run up it. It is said that you can see his grave ten feet from the top, especially if you are one of the masses trying to do this part of the course in the dark.

VEACH GAP
Runners are then greeted with a steep trail run down to a gravel road, leading to the wagon road, built by Gen. Daniel Morgan during the Revolution for possible retreat of Washington’s forces, up Veach Gap and down the boulder falls on the west side. Because most runners will traverse in darkness the difficult stretch from Elizabeth Furnace to the Aid-Station located at the foot of the Veach Gap descent, this is the one part of the race where the runner, if he so chooses, may be accompanied by a safety runner. After descending the western side of Veach Gap at 86.58 miles the competitors are again on their own.

THE FINISH LINE
Crossing the Valley road the course now has good footing on country lanes to complete the circle around the Massanuttens, then turns back up and over Woodstock Mountain, across the Shenandoah and through town to the finish back at the County Fairgrounds.

Put on your cowboy boots and plan to head out out to the country. Come join the fun at town of Strasburg’s “Wild West Mayfest” - a small-town festival celebrating its heritage in the Northern Shenandoah Valley, happening Thursday, May 14 through Sunday, May 17.

Don’t miss out on the Mayfest beauty pageant, the Lions Club carnival, a street dance, a sausage & pancake breakfast, Mayfest pottery, live music on the street corners, a plant swap and book sale, arts & crafts, fabulous food, a children’s activities area, a parade (on Saturday at 4 p.m.), helicopter rides, Virginia wine tasting, an “Old Timers” baseball game, and the Annual Mayfest Duck Race. All of the above events are free.

The festivities will actually kick-off this year on Thursday, May 14 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Strasburg Hotel. The historic hotel will be hosting the first-ever “Mayflowers Chuck Wagon Round-up” – with food, music, door prizes, and western giveaways. (The cost of this event is $30.) The rest of the Mayfest events (on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) are free.

Directions: Take Interstate-81 to Strasburg Exits 296 or 298, and go to Main Street (King Street). Look on the 7Bends Valley Calendar – on this web site – for the list of events happening each day.