Four young women from the Winchester area have been selected to serve as Maids in the Court of Queen Shenandoah XCV during the 95th Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival, April 28 through May I, 2022. The Maids are Elia Maria Norton, Yeakley Eden Pullen, Margaret Wyndham Smith, and Sarah Katherine Smith.

​Elia Norton is the granddaughter of B.J. Dove of Winchester, VA. She is the great granddaughter of Polly Manuel of Winchester and the late Eddie Manuel. Elia is a sophomore at Lord Fairfax Community College majoring in early childhood education. She is a member of Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, where she volunteers on many committees. Elia has been an active member in the Girl Scout Organization for I3 years and has now received a lifetime membership. Elia is a 2019 graduate of John Handley High School. She was a member of the Handley Color Guard, participated with Girls on the Run as a Jr. Coach, running buddy, and runner. She also participated in Winchester Public School's system wide musicals for 7 years.
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Elia has volunteered with the Kids Club of the Northern Shenandoah Valley, Watts, and the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® on the Tent/Event, Bluegrass, and Bloomers committees.

​Yeakley Pullen is the daughter of Crystal and Adrian Pullen of Winchester. She is the granddaughter of Mary Ann Pullen and Pressley Pullen, Jr., of Winchester, and the late Barbara Zydelis and Robert Zydelis. Yeakley is a junior at The University of Alabama majoring in communicative disorders with a minor in human development. She is a member of Delta Zeta sorority where she served as a Diamond Leader and was appointed as a Sigma Rho Chi through the University of Alabama Panhellenic Association where she guided and counseled potential new members during the largest sorority recruitment in the nation. She is a weekly mentor with Al's Pals, a mentoring program for at-risk youth in Tuscaloosa, AL, a volunteer with the West Alabama Food Bank, and involved in Campus Outreach. Yeakley is a 2019 graduate of James Wood High School. She was a four year varsity Soccer letter recipient, three year varsity Volleyball letter recipient, where she also served as a captain her senior year, and named First Team All-Area Libero during her junior and senior years. Additionally, she was a member of the National Honor Society, Varsity Club, and Key Club. Yeakley also served as an Apple Pie Ridge Elementary mentor.

​Margaret Smith is the daughter of Katherine and Randall Smith of Henrico, VA. She is the granddaughter of Sandra and Frank Armstrong of Winchester, Patricia Smith of Richmond, VA, and the late Steve Smith. Margaret attends John Tyler Community College majoring in early childhood education. Margaret is a 2017 graduate of Douglas Southall Freeman High School.
She was a three year varsity Swim letter recipient, member of the National Beta Club, and a seven year member of The Village Dance Studio Performing Company. Margaret has worked in childcare full-time for the past 4 years and enjoys photography as a hobby. Margaret's mother, Katherine Armstrong Smith, was a Little Maid in the court of Queen Shenandoah XLIV, Miss Juliana Shepard and a Maid of Honor to Queen Shenandoah LVI, Miss Dana Lee Connors. Her maternal grandparents, Sandra and Frank Armstrong, were Festival Presidents from 1981 to 1982 and 1968 to 1969, respectively.

​Sarah Smith is the daughter of Katherine and Randall Smith of Henrico. She is the granddaughter of Sandra and Frank Armstrong of Winchester, Patricia Smith of Richmond, and the late Steve Smith. Sarah is a junior at the University of Virginia majoring in kinesiology with a Spanish minor. She is a member of the Virginia Alpine Ski and Snowboard Team. Sarah graduated from Glen Allen High School in 2019. She was a four year varsity Gymnastics letter recipient and a two year varsity Tennis letter recipient. Additionally, she was a member of the National Honor Society, Art Honor Society, Math Honor Society, and Spanish Honor Society. Sarah's mother, Katherine Armstrong Smith, was a Little Maid in the court of Queen Shenandoah XLIV, Miss Juliana Shepard and a Maid of Honor to Queen Shenandoah LVI, Miss Dana Lee Connors. Her maternal grandparents, Sandra and Frank Armstrong, were Festival Presidents from 1981 to 1982 and 1968 to 1969, respectively.

​The Maids will participate in the Coronation Ceremony of Queen Shenandoah XCV at John Handley High School and will ride on the Queen's float in the Grand Feature Parade.

Winchester, VA – The unveiling of the 95th Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® annual theme and its unique artwork represents the official kickoff of the Festival every November.  The theme announcement is the foundation for building momentum through the unveiling of newsworthy events and special guest announcements throughout the winter and early-spring months that lead up to the Festival which takes place next year on April 22 to May 1, 2022.
 
The 95th theme artwork was once again designed by the Festival’s talented graphic designer, Erik Zimmerman, of White Spider, Inc.  The artwork and message reflect the grand return of festivalgoer favorites including crowd-filled parades, Queen Shenandoah royalty, popular celebrities, carnival games and delicious food at the midway, and marching bands filling our streets with joyful sounds that resonate the fond message that “Bloomin’ Good Times” are back. 
 
The official event and special guest lineup will be available in the Festival’s What’s New for 2022 press release series will be shared with Festival fans and the media in the coming weeks and months.
 
Event tickets will go on sale in early January 2022.  Tickets can be purchased in person at Festival Headquarters, by phone at (540) 662-3863 or through our new online ticketing system at www.thebloom.com.  Make plans now to join us for the 95th Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® on April 22 through May 1, 2022.
 
Media Contact:
 
Bradley S. Veach, Executive Director
Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival®
135 North Cameron Street, Winchester, VA 22601
(540) 662-3863  | bveach@thebloom.com | www.thebloom.com
​

The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® will honor six individuals who have had a lasting impact on sports across our region.  The inaugural class includes the following: 

Russ Potts
Russ Potts created the Apple Blossom Festival Sports Breakfast along with Dick Kern in 1965. Former Heavyweight Champion Jack Dempsey was the very first sports celebrity to attend the Sports Breakfast.

Potts is a member of 6 Hall of Fames: National College Sports Marketing Hall of Fame, Virginia Sports Hall of Fame, Handley High School Judges Athletic Association Hall of Fame, Potomac State College Hall of Fame, Shenandoah University Hall of Fame and the University of Maryland Phi Delta Theta Fraternity Hall of Fame

Russ is a former Executive Director of the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival®, serving from 1969 to 1970.  During his tenure he moved the Grand Feature Parade from Friday to Saturday attracting 86 bands in 1969 & 92 bands in 1970.

Potts was elected eight times to the Virginia State Senate from 1992-2008. He served as Chairman of the Senate’s Education & Health Committee.

Russ was the first Sports Marketing Director in the history of college athletics at the University of Maryland.  He was also the Director of Athletics at SMU. During his tenure, both universities set all time average attendance increase records-the only time in NCAA history.

Potts served as Vice President of Marketing for the Chicago White Sox.

Russ Potts headed up the capital campaign for the Handley High School renovation and creation of the Emil & Grace Shihadeh Innovation Center. Russ helped the school raise over $22M for both projects.

Over his career, Russ has staged, promoted, or organized over 1,000 athletic events.  He created the first Women’s College Basketball game on national television - Immaculata vs. Maryland in 1976, created the first Men’s College Basketball primetime television package, and organized the famous Georgetown vs. Virginia game featuring the battle of the 7 footers – Patrick Ewing vs Ralph Sampson which was televised on national TV.

Dick Kern
Dick Kern and Russ Potts were the Co-Chairmen of the very first Sports Breakfast featuring Jack Dempsey in 1965.

Dick passed away on October 1, 2020 at 100 years old and is represented by his grandson, Trey, Owner / Operator of Kern Motor Company. Both Trey and Dick’s son Rick were outstanding athletes at Handley. All three are members of the Judges Athletic Association Hall of Fame.

Kern was one of the founders of the Judges Athletic Association – one of the nation’s most successful high school booster associations. Dick is a past President of the JAA.

Dick was an outstanding athlete having starred at Handley High School as a quarterback in the single wing offense and later at Virginia Tech as the starting defensive halfback and linebacker.

Kern won the Williams Award as the outstanding senior football player in 1941 and was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles. He was unable to pursue an NFL career because of serving in World War II.

Dick was a highly decorated war hero in the U.S. Army during WWII and one of the youngest company commanders in the nation with over 300 men under his command.

Dick created Kern Motor Company, the longest standing automotive agency in Winchester / Frederick County.

Kern served with distinction as Vice Mayor, Chairman of the City Finance Committee, and Councilman-serving for over 20 years.

Dick Kern will always be known as an outstanding community leader and philanthropist.

Walter Barr
Walter Barr’s coaching career bridged five decades.  Barr was a two-sport athlete at Shepherd University where he played football and baseball.  He graduated from Shepherd College in 1962 with a Bachelor of Science and received his master’s degree from James Madison University in 1970.

Walter’s teaching experience spanned from 1962 to 1998.  He taught at James Wood High School, Loudoun County High School, Broad Run High School, Sherando High School, and Lord Fairfax Community College.

Barr began his coaching career at James Wood High School where he was an assistant football coach and head track coach from 1962 to 1967.  In 1967, Coach Barr became the head football coach at James Wood and coached until 1971 where he went on to be the head football coach at Shepherd University until 1986.  In 1994, Barr became the first head coach of Sherando High School.  In 1999, Barr was asked to conduct a football program feasibility study for Shenandoah University which later turned into a head football coaching position with the University.  Coach Barr returned to James Wood High School in 2005 and turned around a program that had not had a winning record in 26 years.  Coach Barr concluded his coaching career with 210 wins, 94 losses and 5 ties.  

Coach Barr has one of the most decorated football coaching records in the region.

1966-1971 James Wood High School (38-2-1)
2 undefeated teams
Virginia AAA State Champions 1970

1971-86 Shepherd University (104-48-4)
3 WVIAC Championships
NAIA National Play-offs 1985

1990-1991 Loudoun County High School (5-5)

1994-1997 Sherando High School (38-13)
State Play-Offs (3 years)

2000-2001 Shenandoah University (9-11)
Start-up program

2005-2007 James Wood High School (16-15)

Barr has been induced into the NAIA Hall of Fame, Shepherd College Hall of Fame, Clarke County Athletic Hall of Fame,James Wood Athletic Hall of Fame and will soon be inducted into the Shenandoah University Hall of Fame in 2022 (postponed due to COVID.)Walter Barr is a 3-time WVIAC Coach of the Year and 4-time Winchester Star Coach of the Year.  In 2016 he received the Richard C. Shickle Award and in 2019 was bestowed the honor of having the James Wood High School Football Field named after him.
Coach Barr has been published in The American Football Coaches Guidebook to Championship Football Drills by Jerry R. Tolley 1984 and hosted many football coaches’ clinics while he was at Shepherd University and Shenandoah University.

Paul Wendell "Wendell" Dick
Last year, on Friday, December 4, 2020, our community said goodbye to a beloved individual and friend to many.  To many of us, Wendell was the face of James Wood High School athletics even after his retirement in 1991.

Wendell grew up in Frederick County, VA and went to James Wood High School (5-12 grades) when it opened in 1950. He graduated in 1958. Dick was recognized as James Wood’s “Outstanding Male Athlete.” While in high school, he was 1stteam District 10 basketball player, earned 14 Varsity letters, and participated in football, basketball, baseball, and track. He was one of the first James Wood High School graduates to have perfect attendance for all 12 years of schooling.

In 1958, Wendell enrolled at Potomac State Junior College in Keyser, WV, on a basketball scholarship where he led the team in free-throw shooting for two years.In 1960, he entered West Virginia University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Education. He was a goalie on the WVU men’s soccer team and earned his MS Degree in Health and Safety. After graduating, he joined the Army National Guard in Winchester. While in Basic Training in Fort Jackson, he was selected as the “Outstanding Trainee” and was catcher of their undefeated softball team.Wendell enjoyed playing for a traveling semi-professional basketball team and fast pitch softball.  Wendell was a Cross-County and Track Official for 50 years (1960-2010). For many years, he was also a “Color Commentator” for 92.5 WINC-FM Sports with Joe Pasquali.
Wendell held lifetime memberships in the James Wood Athletic Association, the Potomac State College Alumni Association, the West Virginia University Alumni Association, the Virginia Retired Teachers Association, and the Greenwood Fire and Rescue Company Association.

For several years, he served as Co-Director of the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival Sports Breakfast.

In 1990, Wendell was inducted into the Fast-Pitch Softball Hall of Fame and in 2000, James Wood High Schooled honored Wendell by establishing the P. Wendell Dick Athletic Hall of Fame.  

Russ Potts will accept the award on behalf of the Wendell Dick family.

Ken Mease
If you have attended the Partlow Insurance Sports Breakfast over the years, you will know that Ken Mease cherished the opportunity to visit and participate in the Shenandoah Apple Blossom. Ken began attending the Festival in 1999 where he emceed the Sports Breakfast.  There were only two years between 1999 and 2017 where he was not able to participate in our annual celebration. In addition to emceeing the Sports Breakfast, Ken spoke at the Festival’s Ladies Horticultural Luncheon and served as the Court Ambassador for the Coronation of Queen Shenandoah. In 2018, the Festival recognized Ken by presenting him with a life pass to the sports breakfast.   Ken returned to celebrate the Festival with us in 2019 but did not emcee the breakfast that year.  Ken loves the Festival and continually went out of his way to support the Festival in many ways.

Ken Mease has had a tremendous career in sports television and radio in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast region of the US for over five decades.

Ken grew up in Selinsgrove, PA and graduated from Selinsgrove Area Joint High School in 1960. In high school, Mease played basketball and baseball, was band president and served as Lt. Governor and International Trustee in Key Club International. After graduating from high school, Ken attended Susquehanna University from 1960 to 1964.  During college, Mease worked part-time for WKOK-AM-FM as a disc jockey, news, and sports reporter.

In 1963, Ken worked for WUNS-AM in Lewisburg, PA as an announcer and color commentator for Bucknell University Football for their ’64 and ’65 seasons.

Ken joined the Pennsylvania Air National Guard in 1965 where he completed basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX.  He attended tech school as a communications specialist at Shepherd Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, TX.  Ken completed his Guard commitment in 1971.

Between 1965 and 1975, Ken continued his work in communications at radio and television stations in Harrisburg, PA, Charlotte, NC, Pittsburgh, PA, and Providence, RI.  While in Providence, Mease anchored sports six days a week and was recognized in 1973 with the Rhode Island Sportscaster of the Year award from the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association.

In 1975, Ken served as Director of Athletics for Robert Morris College (now University.)  Ken was instrumental in the University’s leap from junior college status to NCAA Division I.  Ken did play-by-play of Colonials basketball for three seasons, coached the school’s basketball team for one season. While at Robert Morris, Mease laid the groundwork for the school’s Sports Management program.

In 1979, Ken went back to news television as a sports anchor and weekday reporter in Pittsburgh, PA.  Ken was awarded two Golden Quill Awards (the Pittsburgh Emmy) for the “Steeler Monday” sports feature.

From 1986 to 2003, Ken was the sports anchor and reporter for WUSA-TV in Washington, DC.  Ken primarily worked as the station’s weekend sports anchor with weekday reporting duties. Ken covered Sunday night sports specials including Redskin shows. Mease also freelanced where he covered Navy Football radio and George Mason TV basketball play-by-play.

From 2003 to 2010, Mease joined CBS-Westwood One Sports Radiosportscasting including Redskins post game.

In 2010 Ken joined the Washington Freedom, an American professional women’s soccer club in Germantown, Maryland.

Rodney Cowley will accept the award on behalf of Ken Mease.

Tommy Dixon
Born in Winchester, VA, Tommy is the second youngest of seven children to Rachel and Clark Dixon.   Dixon attended first through seventh grades at Douglas School.  After integration, Tommy attended Handley High School from eighth through twelfth grades.  While at Handley, Tommy was a three-sport athlete, playing football, basketball and track and field.  He was voted 2nd team All-State in football and basketball.   After high school, Dixon studied health and physical education at Potomac State College in Keyser, WV and Berea College in Berea, KY.  

During Tommy’s tenure, he coached football, track and field, and basketball.  Tommy coached football at Daniel Morgan Middle School for nine years where his team only lost two games and had one tie; the rest were wins.  Dixon was an assistant track and field coach when Handley won several state championships.  Tommy coached basketball for 36 years and compiled a record of 403-228.  Tommy coached his teams to nine regular season championships, 10 regional appearances, 3 regional championships, and 6 state tournament berths.  Coach Dixon was also recognized several times as Coach of the Year at the District and Regional level.  Tommy also was selected to coach in the state all-star game in 2000.

In 2001, Coach Dixon was inducted into Handley’s Hunter Maddex Hall of Fame and the Potomac State College Hall of Fame in 2010.  On Saturday evening, December 17, 2016, during a boys’ and girls’ varsity basketball game inside Handley’s Maddex-Omps Gymnasium, the school announced that the basketball court would forever be known as the Coach Tommy Dixon Basketball Court.

The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® is delighted to announce that Haley Skarupa, US Women’s National Ice Hockey team member and Olympic gold medal winner will join Joe Theismann, Santana Moss and Coach Tommy Dixon to speak to local sports fans on Saturday morning, May 1, 2021 from 8:00-10:00 am at the Partlow Insurance Sports Breakfast at the Frederick County Fairgrounds.

Haley Skarupa was a member of the 2018 United States Women’s Olympic Ice Hockey Team who took home a gold medal from the Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea. She is a three-time World Champion and a Four Nations Cup Gold Medalist for Team USA as well. Haley graduated from Boston College in 2016, majoring in psychology. While at Boston College, she was a four-year starter and named an All-American Collegiate Athlete.  Skarupa is currently the second highest points leader in Boston College hockey history, men or women, with 115 goals and 244 total points in her four years. 

Out of college, she was drafted 5th overall into the National Women’s Hockey League and was a unanimous All-Star Selection her rookie season for the Connecticut Whale. Haley is originally from Rockville, Maryland and graduated from Wootton High School in 2012. She joined the Washington Capitals organization as their Hockey Ambassador for the 2019-2020 season to help promote the growth of the game in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area. Currently, she is a member of the Professional Women’s Hockey Players Association (PWHPA) where she participates in weekend-long hockey events across the USA and Canada year-round.  Haley works full-time in business development for Klaviyo, an ecommerce, email marketing and SMS marketing company.

Winchester, VA – Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® President, Tommy Price, is pleased to announce the area’s top high school and college student-athletes.  Students are chosen each year to represent their school during the Partlow Insurance Sports Breakfast which takes place during the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® on Saturday morning, May 1, 2021 from 8 – 10 am at the Frederick County Fairgrounds.  

The 2021 line-up of outstanding local athletes include: 
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Alyssa Kitts Mountain View Christian Academy 
Alyssa Kitts, daughter of Kenneth and Patricia Kitts, is a senior at Mountain View Christian Academy with a 4.02 GPA.  She was inducted into the National Honor Society as a Sophomore.  Throughout her years in school, she has participated in basketball, cheer and soccer.  In basketball, Alyssa served as the team captain, where she averaged 16 points per game, with a 28-point career high.  She has received the following awards:  MVP, Female Scholarly Athlete, and the Coaches' Award at the NCSAA 2019-2020 basketball tournament.  In 2018-2019, she was part of the NCSAA Varsity Girls Basketball Super Regional Team.  Most recently, she was nominated to the McDonalds All-American Team for the class of 2020-2021.  After high school, Alyssa plans to earn her Associates of Science Degree: Health Professions Specialization:  Medical Assisting.  After completing the degree program, she hopes to become a Certified Radiologic Technologist.

Brennan Komelasky, Warren County High School 
Brennan Komelasky, son of Sam and Stacie Komelasky, is a current Warren County High School Senior.  During his high school career, Brennan has exemplified a model of a great student-athlete, both inside and outside the classroom.   Brennan has a GPA of 3.96 and has excelled throughout his years by taking numerous AP and LFCC dual-enrolled level classes. He has been honored numerous times with academic letters and classroom honors throughout his high school career.  Outside of the classroom, Brennan participates in many school activities. He was a member of the Warren County Marching Band for four years and traveled all over Virginia to compete in band competitions.   Brennan was a member of the Warren County Wrestling team.  While on the team, Brennan was a four-year varsity letter winner, District Champ, Region Champ, two-time State Qualifier, and this year placed Sixth in the State at the 170lb weight class.  Brennan also achieved many individual records and was voted a team captain in his senior year. Brennan was recognized as a leader from both his teammates and coaches. After graduation Brennan plans on attending Shenandoah University and continuing his wrestling career.  
Jack Hendren, Sherando High School
Jack Hendren, son of Julie and Mike Hendren, is a senior at Sherando High School.  He is a three-time varsity starter in football.  Recognitions include two-time Second team, All-State Class 4 kicker, and Second Team All-Region. In his junior year, he made 41 of 43 extra points and four of eight field goals (with a long of 43 yards) for a total of 53 points. He has 14 touchbacks on his 57 kickoffs. As a junior, Hendren had a 4.5-star rating from Kohl’s, the nation’s premier kicking organization.  Jack also played on the Sherando soccer team where he was a three-time varsity starter and 4C midfielder.  Jack has a 3.5 GPA is a member of the National Honors Society.  He has signed to play football at Bridgewater College and will major in finance.  

Jack Hendren, Sherando High School
Jack Hendren, son of Julie and Mike Hendren, is a senior at Sherando High School.  He is a three-time varsity starter in football.  Recognitions include two-time Second team, All-State Class 4 kicker, and Second Team All-Region. In his junior year, he made 41 of 43 extra points and four of eight field goals (with a long of 43 yards) for a total of 53 points. He has 14 touchbacks on his 57 kickoffs. As a junior, Hendren had a 4.5-star rating from Kohl’s, the nation’s premier kicking organization.  Jack also played on the Sherando soccer team where he was a three-time varsity starter and 4C midfielder.  Jack has a 3.5 GPA is a member of the National Honors Society.  He has signed to play football at Bridgewater College and will major in finance.  

Diante Ball, Millbrook High School
Diante Ball is a senior at Millbrook High School and is the son of Alissa Slayden and Dwayne Ball. He is team captain for the varsity football and basketball teams. He also runs track and plans to play baseball this year. He takes honors classes at LFCC and is enrolled in the Pharmacy Tech Program at Shenandoah University. He received the Academic Excellence & The Pioneer Spirit Award. He volunteers and does community service for Habitat for Humanity. In the fall he will attend Dickinson College where he will play football and continue his education in hopes of becoming a pharmacist. 

Isabella Morande, Shenandoah University  
Isabella Morande is a senior at Shenandoah University.  She is the goalkeeper for the Hornets Ladies Field Hockey Team.  In 2019, Isabella was selected to the NFHCA Second Team All-Region, VaSID First Team All-State, ODAC Defensive Player of the Year, First Team All-ODAC, ECAC All-Tournament, and Second Team All-ECAC.   In 2018, she started all 20 games recording 94 saves and broke the school record in a season with 15 wins.  In the classroom, she is three-time ODAC All-Academic, four-time NFHCA National Academic Squad, 2020 Spring Dean's List, 2019 Fall Athletic Director's List, and 2019 Spring Athletic Director’s List.  She has majored in criminal justice.

Tyler Davis, Skyline High School
Tyler Davis is the first wrestler in Skyline High School history to be a four-time regional champion and a four-time state placer that also won a state championship in 2021. He is the school record holder in most pins and career winning percentage. Tyler finished his career with the second most wins in school history. Tyler has been selected as the 2018 & 2021 Northern Virginia Daily high school wrestler of the year. He serves as a captain of the team and is the undeniable leader of his teammates.  Tyler has a 3.2 GPA and has accepted an Electrical Worker’s Apprenticeship with IBEW Local 26. 

Alyssa Hoggatt, Clarke County High School  
Alyssa Hoggatt, daughter of Julie and Erik Hoggatt, is a senior at Clarke County High School. She has been a member of the varsity softball team the past four years and a member of the varsity volleyball team the past two years.  In softball, she is a two-time 1st team all Bull Run District, two-time 1st team All-Region 2B, and two-time 1st team All-Area for softball. She has a 4.43 GPA and is a member of the National Honor Society. After graduation, she will attend James Madison University and major in Kinesiology in hopes becoming a Physical Therapist.

Demitri Gardner, John Handley High School 
Demitri Gardner is a senior athlete from John Handley High School.  Gardner grew up in Winchester with his parents, Kimberly Lunsford and Darin Gardner.  His brother, Chad Moore, was a standout player at Handley High School and Shepherd University.  Gardner has been a three-year starter on the Handley Boys Basketball Team and led this year’s team to the State Championship where they placed second.  He earned All-State honors this year and was recently named the Virginia High School Coaches Association Class 4 State Player of the Year.  This season, he also led the entire state in scoring average with 25.5 points, along with 10 rebounds per game.  During Gardner’s junior year, he earned multiple All-District and Region Honors, including the Winchester Star Player of the Year.   Gardner has multiple scholarship offers to various programs and will continue his career as a collegiate basketball player.

Kimberly Warnagiris, James Wood High School 
Kimberly Warnagiris is a Senior at James Wood High School and has been a part of the Varsity swim team for all four years. In swimming, she is a five-time district champion in the 100 fly, 100 back-stroke, 200 medley relay, and 200 free relay.  In addition, she is an eight-time podium finisher at the regional level of competition. During the three years the VHSL state competition was held, she placed eighth in the 200-individual medley, sixth in the 100-back stroke, fifth in the 100 breaststroke, and twice she placed fourth in the 100 fly. Kimberly has also been named the JWAA Most Outstanding Female Swimmer of the year three times, the Winchester Star Female Swimmer of the year two times and is a 4-time recipient of the Northwestern All-Academic Award. She currently holds James Wood school records in the 200-individual medley 2:10.16, 100 back stroke 59.63, 100 fly 56.65, 200 medley relay 1:51.32, and 200 free relay 1:42.66. She has also been a member of eight clubs during her high school career, Key Club (newsletter editor), SCA (treasurer), FBLA (historian), NHS (secretary), NHAS, Spanish Club, DECA, and the Varsity Club. Kimberly will continue her education at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, with plans to swim for the club team and major in Business Commerce.  

Mikayla Combs, Legacy Christian Academy
Mikayla Combs, daughter of Christine and Andy Combs, is a junior at Legacy Christian Academy. She is a member of varsity basketball and volleyball for 3 years. She has averaged 10 points and 7.6 rebounds a game. She shot 60 percent from the free throw line last season. She has won offensive MVP twice and overall MVP once in her high school career. She has a GPA of 4.0, is a member of the National Honor Society and the Chick-fil-A Leader Academy. She enjoys serving her community through the Chick-fil-A Leader Academy and her church.  She hopes to attend college in the fall of 2022 to major in Biology and hopes to work in the medical field.

​The 94th Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® is pleased to announce part six of our What’s New at the Bloom event series.  The Festival will take place from April 23-May 2, 2021 with 21 planned events.  Tickets are limited and many of our events will take place at alternate venues this year due to COVID-19.  The Festival will follow all CDC guidelines and the Governor’s latest Executive Orders at all events.  Participants should expect to follow all requirements, including the mask mandate in order to participate.
 
Please note below that the Ladies Commonwealth Luncheon and the Winchester Radiologists Pumps & Pearls recently relocated to Millwood Station Event Center from Piccadilly’s Public House due to limitations in the Governor’s latest Executive Order.
 
Tickets and registration are now available for the following events:
​

​BB&T now Truist Men’s Commonwealth Luncheon
The annual BB&T, now Truist Men’s Commonwealth Luncheon is set for 11 a.m. at Piccadilly’s Public House & Restaurant, 125 East Piccadilly Street.
 
This popular gathering of gentlemen will be reminiscent of the original and complementary to the current Stag Luncheon. The area’s business and community leaders know this is one networking event not to miss!
 
It is held in the heart of downtown Winchester in a restored grocery warehouse built in 1900, now known as Piccadilly’s Public House & Restaurant.  Attendees enjoy a delectable lunch of custom-made Baltimore bratwurst with their favorite libations and special samples of world-famous distilled spirits while engaging in lively discussions.
​
Proper attire includes a jacket or tie.  Gentlemen, raise your glasses in a toast to Apple Blossom’s nostalgic event.

Valley Health Systems and Shenandoah Valley Orthodontics Family & Friends Fun Run presented by Innovation Health
​Invite your family and friends to join the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® in our first-ever virtual fun run.  Due to COVID-19, we are unable to properly plan and host our traditional Valley Health Apple Blossom 10K or the Shenandoah Valley Orthodontics Kids Bloomin' Mile races in 2021, but we have a fun alternative for Apple Blossom fans who love to run.
​
Your Race
Run when it's convenient for you and invite your family members and friends to join in.  Pick a day and time between April 23-May 2, 2021 to run.  We encourage you to share action photos on your social media pages.  Tag us at @OfficialSABF or email us at info@thebloom.com!
 
Your Pace
Our virtual run is not a competitive race but instead an opportunity to promote a healthy lifestyle while celebrating and supporting the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival®.
 
Your Distance
One mile, 5K, 10K, any distance...it's your choice.  Get outdoors, take in some fresh air and enjoy the beauty of springtime in the Valley.
 
Your Place
Get out and explore.  Plan your route and bring along a running buddy to enjoy the great outdoors!
 
Run Information
Students/Youth registration is only $15.00.
Adult registration is $20.00.
 
Everyone who registers will receive a beautiful commemorative race medal that highlights this year's Festival theme "Back in Bloom" and an Apple Blossom inspired race bib.  Technical race shirts with the Festival theme and sponsors are also available for an additional charge.  Just add a shirt to your registration and pick your shirt size.
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Running packets will be mailed out or will be available for pick-up at Festival Headquarters (135 N Cameron St) no later than April 23rd. 

​Apple Blossom Carnival Powers Great American Midway
The Apple Blossom Carnival Powers Great American Midway is your ticket to fun and excitement for all ages. From over 55 thrill seeking rides to midway games, the Apple Blossom Carnival offers a variety of activities for the entire family. The “Ride for One Price” is offered and can be purchased online or at the carnival site.
 
Carnival goers must wear a mask when not eating or drinking and follow CDC and State mandates.
Powers Great American Midways is one of the most highly respected carnival companies in the industry. Since 1980 they have traveled exclusively on the east coast of the United States. They have successfully secured many impressive locations performing at major state fairs, county fairs, festivals, and other celebrations.
 
Powers Great American Midways takes great pride in its safety, cleanliness and the overall appearance of their rides, food concessions and games. The show has been honored with the OABA "Circle of Excellence" award as well as the Pennsylvania Safety Award and a North Carolina Safety Award.
 
In its fifth generation the Powers family has emerged as one of the fastest growing and highly respected carnival families in the industry.
 
The Carnival will once again be located behind Ward Plaza at 2260 Valley Avenue, Winchester, VA 22601 on the following days and times:
 
Fri, April 23, 2021 | 5:00-11:00 pm
Sat, April 24, 2021 | Noon-11:00 pm
Sun, April 25, 2021 | Noon-10:00 pm
Mon, April 26, 2021 | CLOSED
Tue, April 27, 2021 | CLOSED
Wed, April 28, 2021 |5:00-11:00 pm
Thu, April 29, 2021 | 5:00-11:00 pm
Fri, April 30, 2021 | 5:00-11:00 pm
Sat, May 1, 2021 | Noon-11 pm
Sun, May 2, 2021 | Noon-9 pm
 
Tickets to the Apple Blossom Carnival Powers Great American Midway will be sold onsite at the Carnival.

​Midway at Frederick County Fairgrounds
The Midway continues to evolve into a Festive and Entertaining destination.  The Midway features Family Friendly Games including Water Balloon Races, Duck Ponds, Fishing Games, Mini Basketball, and others many of which are prize every-time entertainment.  Food Vendors from all over the East Coast serve traditional Fair Food as well as Novelty and International Cuisine. The live entertainment makes the atmosphere electric with local bands that have great followings.
 
Grab a Funnel Cake, Cotton Candy, or a corn dog and enjoy the fun atmosphere!
 
The Midway will take place at the Frederick County Fairgrounds, located at 250 Fairground Road, Clear Brook, VA 22654 on the following days and time:
 
Thur, April 29 |   1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Fri, April 30     |   2:00 am to 4:00 pm
Sat, May 1       | 11:00 am to 1:00 pm
 
Admission is FREE into the Fairgrounds during these times!

​Festival Souvenir Store Grand Opening is Friday, April 9!
The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® Official Souvenir Store & Ticket Outlet, sponsored by our friends at Claudio’s Pizzeria, will open on Friday, April 9, 2021 at 10:00 am and remain open daily through Monday, May 3, 2021.  The store is located in the Apple Blossom Mall, 1850 Apple Blossom Drive, Winchester, VA 22601 across from Aeropostale near JCPenney.  The store offers a wide selection of merchandise for your home and the entire family. 
 
Local artisans and crafters offer a variety of home goods, decorations, and unique, one-of-a-kind items that can only be found in our store during the Festival each year.  Artisan and crafter goods are exclusively available in the Festival store and cannot be purchased in our online store.
 
Looking for Festival event tickets​?  Stop by the Souvenir Store and Ticket Outlet to purchase your tickets before your favorite event sells out.  Tickets are in limited supply this year due to COVID restrictions so make sure you stop by during our Grand Opening to purchase your tickets.  Fans can also purchase and download tickets online by visiting our Online Ticket Outlet.
 
Store hours:
Mon thru Thurs     11am to 8pm
Fri - Sat                    10am to 9pm
Sun                           12pm to 6pm

Winchester Radiologists Pumps & Pearls and the Ladies Commonwealth Luncheon have moved to a new location!
Due to the Governor’s latest Executive Order and limitations on indoor gatherings at restaurants, the Festival has moved Winchester Radiologists Pumps & Pearls and Ladies Commonwealth Luncheon from Piccadilly’s Public House to Millwood Station Event Center located at 252 Costello Drive, Winchester, VA 22602. 
 
Winchester Radiologists Pumps & Pearls will take place on Monday evening, April 26, 2021 from 6-9 pm.  Tickets are available for $80.00/each.
 
Ladies Commonwealth Luncheon will take place on Friday, April 30, 2021 from 11 am-1 pm.  Tickets are available for $50.00/each.

Winchester, VA – The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® is pleased to announce that Cissie Graham Lynch, daughter of Franklin Graham and the granddaughter of Billy Graham, will speak at the Prayer Lunch presented by Knouse Foods event on Tuesday, April 27, 2021 from Noon to 2:00 pm at the Frederick County Fairgrounds.  Cissie is no stranger to the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® as she reigned as Queen Shenandoah LXXX in 2007.
 
Cissie was raised in the familiar surroundings of two ministries her father now leads—the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and Samaritan’s Purse. Since 2010, Cissie has worked as part of the two organizations in various capacities, currently serving as a communications advisor and ministry spokesperson. She has traveled the world advocating for initiatives that reach women, children, and millennials. Her mission is to stand boldly for the Gospel in an ever-compromising world and encourage others to stand on only the Truth―the same Spirit-filled Truth that she has found in her relationship with Jesus Christ.
 
In 2017, Cissie was a speaker at the National Prayer Service for the 58th Presidential Inauguration at the National Cathedral. She serves on the Executive Evangelical Advisory Board of President Trump’s Faith Advisory Council.  Cissie encourages people to speak boldly on issues including life, family, and faith.
 
“One of the most important lessons I learned from my parents and my grandparents was to never compromise my beliefs because of what the world says,” said Graham Lynch. “I want to help people navigate the tough issues we all face and to give them practical ways to live out their faith in truth and love and to be unapologetic and fearless in a world that is forever compromising.”
 
Cissie hosts a podcast produced by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association called Fearless with Cissie Graham Lynch: Fearless Faith in a Compromising Culture, which is available on many major podcast streaming services. In each episode, she explores popular issues in culture and what the Bible teaches about those topics. She also shares personal stories from her own life and lessons she has learned from watching her father and grandfather in private and public ministry. Fearless with Cissie Graham Lynch encourages listeners to explore Scripture for themselves and challenge them to stand fearlessly for the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
 
Cissie Graham Lynch’s guest appearance is generously sponsored by Chick-fil-A, First Bank, Wilkins Shoe Center, The Willows at Meadow Branch and Jordan Springs Market.
 
Tickets to the Prayer Lunch presented by Knouse Foods are currently on sale for $30.00.  Tickets can be purchased in person at Festival Headquarters, by phone at (540) 662-3863 or through our new online ticketing system at www.thebloom.com.  Make plans now to join us on April 23-May 2, 2021 as we get “Back in Bloom.”
Media Contact:
 
Bradley S. Veach, Executive Director
Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival
135 North Cameron Street, Winchester, VA 22601
(540) 662-3863  |bveach@thebloom.com | www.thebloom.com

Santana Moss is considered one of the Miami’s most explosive and exciting players in its storied history. The Miami native, who won 2 state titles in the long jump and one in the triple jump while at Carol City High School, brought his game breaking speed and big play capabilities and rewrote the Hurricanes record books.
 
He is the school career leader in all-purpose yards, receiving yards and punt return yards and career punts returned for touchdowns (6). He set an NCAA record in 2000 with 4 punt returns for touchdowns on the year. That year, he also set the school single season record for punt return yards (655). He led Miami in receptions and receiving yards in 1999 and in receptions in 2000 and is tied with Michael Irvin for third in most career pass receptions. He also tied a school record with 3 receiving touchdowns against Rutgers in 1998.
 
Santana was named the 2000 BIG EAST Offensive AND Special Teams Players of the Year, the only player in league history to win both awards. He was named First team All BIG EAST in 1999 and 2000 (unanimous choice), and 2nd team in 1998. In 1999, he was named a Biletnikoff Award semi-finalist and in his senior season, he finished 7th in the Heisman Trophy balloting.
 
He put his lightning speed to use with the Hurricanes track team and set a school record in the 60-meter indoor, a record that stood for 11 years. In 2000, Santana was named the BIG EAST Most Outstanding Field performer when he won the conference title in both the long jump and triple jump.
 
Moss was drafted in the 1st round (16th overall) of the 2001 NFL draft by the New York Jets, and he spent 4 seasons with the team, before playing for the Washington Football Team for 10 seasons. Moss was selected as an All-Pro in 2005, he ended his career with over 700 catches, 10,000 yards receiving and scored 66 touchdowns in his illustrious playing career.
 
He is regularly heard and seen on local sports radio and television programs. He is also the host of The Santana Moss Show, a popular weekly show on YouTube and provides in-depth analysis for the Washington Football Team. Santana serves the community through his nonprofit, “89 Ways to Give Foundation.” 89 Ways To Give’s vision is to inspire hope, create everlasting bonds, enhance quality of life and empower everyone in our community.
 
Santana graduated with a Bachelor of Liberal Arts (BLA '01) degree and a master’s degree from the University of Miami Business School in 2016. In 2008, Santana married his high school sweetheart, LaTosha; and they have four children.
 
Insider’s Note: Santana Moss will speak at the Partlow Insurance Sports Breakfast on Saturday, May 1 at 8:00 am.  A limited supply of Sports Breakfast general admission ($35.00) and VIP ($65.00) tickets are available online at www.thebloom.com. Sports Breakfast VIP tickets include preferred seating, breakfast, autographed book and a photo with Joe Theismann.

Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® President, Tommy Price, is pleased to announce that former Washington Football Team-great, entrepreneur, and ESPN and the NFL Network analyst Joe Theismann will serve as Sports Marshal for the 2021 Partlow Insurance Sports Breakfast and is sponsored by Omps Funeral Home.
 
Joe graduated in 1971 from the University of Notre Dame, where he received All-American honors in both Football and Academics.  That same year, he was runner up to Jim Plunket for the Heisman Trophy balloting.  Joe chose to begin his career with the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League after being drafted by the Miami Dolphins and Major League Baseball’s Minnesota Twins.
 
A 12-year NFL veteran, Joe played in 163 consecutive games from 1974-1985 for the Washington Football Team and holds team records for passing yardage (25,206), completions (2,044) and attempts (3,602).  He was a two-time Pro Bowl selection and Pro Bowl MVP leading Washington to a 27-17 victory over the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl XVII.
 
Joe was selected as the NFL’s Man of the Year in 1982 for his community service and dedication to the health and welfare of children.  In 1983, he won the league’s Most Valuable Player Award, leading the Washington Football Team to a second consecutive Super Bowl appearance.  Joe Theismann’s career ended abruptly in 1985 after sustaining a badly broken leg during a Monday Night Football game against the New York Giants on national television.  In 2003, he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame and in 2013 received the Walter Camp Football Foundation “Distinguished American” Award.
 
With every chapter of his life, Mr. Theismann evolved from athlete to the ultimate businessman.  An Emmy award winning analyst, businessman and athlete, Joe utilizes his gifts, talent and high energy to share his strategies for handling unforeseen change.
 
Joe released his book “How to Be A Champion Everyday: 6 Timeless Keys to Success” in June of 2020.  In his new book, Joe shares his timeless wisdom with everyone, wisdom about how to succeed in life. Sprinkled with personal anecdotes, insightful observations about the world around us, and drawing on the examples of successful personalities throughout history, this book provides the guidance and spark for each one of us to improve our lives and achieve our dreams.

Insider’s Note: Joe Theismann will speak at the Partlow Insurance Sports Breakfast on Saturday, May 1 at 8:00 am.  A limited supply of Sports Breakfast general admission ($35.00) and VIP ($65.00) tickets are available online at www.thebloom.com. Sports Breakfast VIP tickets include preferred seating, breakfast, autographed book and a photo with Joe Theismann.