Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel, Honored Member, U.S Secret Serviceto serve at Festival

4/15/2025

Jeremy Luttrell, president of the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® is honored to announce that that Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel, Honorary Member, U.S. Secret Service, will be a guest of the 98th Festival and will be riding with Sheriff Lenny Millholland, Frederick County Sheriff’s Office, in the Hang 10 Car Wash Firefighters' and Glo Fiber Grand Feature Parades on May 2 and 3.

DJ Daniel is a young cancer warrior and nation inspiration, who has taken the oath with over 1000 law enforcement agencies across the United States fulfilling his dream to serve in uniform while raising awareness of childhood cancer. Despite battling terminal brain and spine cancer, DJ has united communities with his courage, heart, and unstoppable spirit.

President Donald Trump had Sean Curran, director of the Secret Service, present DJ the honorary badge in the balcony of the Capitol during President Trump’s speech to congress in March 2025.

DJ has been honored as an Honorary Member of the U.S. Secret Service, recognizing his bravery, patriotism and the hope he brings to so many.

Washington Nationals' Racing Presidents and Screech to Make Special Appearances During the 98th Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival®

4/15/2025

The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® is thrilled to announce that the Washington Nationals Racing Presidents will join Nationals legend Ryan Zimmerman during this year’s festival! George, Tom, Abe, and Teddy are lacing up their oversized shoes for special appearances during the 98th Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival, including a stop at the Partlow Insurance Sports Breakfast on Saturday morning, May 3 from 8:00 to 9:00 am in the Tolley Dental Zone at James R. Wilkins, Jr. Athletics and Events Center. The Racing Presidents will also greet fans as they ride through the streets in Old Town Winchester during the Glo Fiber Grand Feature Parade at 1:30 pm on Saturday afternoon, May 3. And don’t miss Screech, the beloved Nationals mascot, who will be bringing his signature energy and team spirit to the festivities.

The Washington Nationals Racing Presidents have been a mainstay at Nationals games since 2006. Originally a scoreboard video feature, the Presidents came "to life" in 2006. They are regularly featured on ESPN and have garnered the IDEA Conference “Best Interactive Feature” Award and GameOps.com "Best OF On-Field Promotion" award on multiple occasions.

Since their debut in 2006, the Racing Presidents have become a fan favorite, delighting Nationals fans young and old during the fourth inning of every home game. With their towering foam heads and unpredictable antics, the mascots have become a staple of the ballpark experience and a key part of the Nationals' identity.

This season, fans can look forward to new themed races, special guest appearances, interactive fan opportunities, and celebratory moments tied to key U.S. holidays and events.
Whether Teddy finally breaks his losing streak, Abe flexes his speed, or George surprises everyone with an upset win, the races are sure to continue sparking cheers, laughs, and unforgettable moments for fans at every game. For more information about the Washington Nationals, game schedules, or to purchase tickets, visit nationals.com.

Festival fans can purchase tickets to the Partlow Insurance Sports Breakfast or Glo Fiber Grand Feature Parade seats by visiting our events page.

Brian Mitchell, Redskins Super Bowl Champion, Speaker at Partlow Insurance Sports Breakfast

4/11/2025

Jeremy Luttrell, president of the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® is pleased to announce that Brian Mitchell will be a guest speaker at the Partlow Insurance Sports Breakfast on Saturday, May 3, at 9 a.m. The Breakfast will be held in the Tolley Dental Zone at the James R. Wilkins, Jr. Athletics & Events Center on the campus of Shenandoah University. Mitchell will be riding in the Hang 10 Firefighters’ Parade on Friday at 5:30 p.m. and the Glo Fiber Grand Feature Parade on Saturday, May 3, which kicks off at 1:30 p.m.

Brian Mitchell, a Super Bowl Champion and one of the most accomplished NFL players of his era, returns to the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® for the first time since 1993. Born and raised in Plaquemine, Louisiana, as one of seven children, Brian developed a strong foundation in both education and athletics. He attended the University of Southwestern Louisiana (now the University of Louisiana at Lafayette), where he set an NCAA record for most rushing touchdowns by a quarterback.
His remarkable talent and work ethic led him to the NFL, where he started his career with the Washington Redskins in 1990 as a return specialist and running back. In his second season, Brian made history by setting NFL records for punt return yards and touchdowns, helping the Redskins win Super Bowl XXVI. Throughout his 14-year career, which also included stints with the Philadelphia Eagles and the New York Giants, Brian earned three NFL All-Pro selections, a Pro Bowl appearance in 1995, and induction into the Redskins Ring of Fame. He remains second in NFL history for all-purpose yards and special teams touchdowns.

Beyond his athletic achievements, Brian is known for his positive attitude and commitment to helping others. He frequently participates in charity events, serves as a mentor to young athletes, and encourages individuals transitioning from athletics to new careers. Today, he co-hosts "B Mitch and Finlay" on 106.7 The Fan and serves as an analyst on regional and national sports shows. Outside of work, Brian enjoys cooking, cycling, and golfing.
Brian's impact extends far beyond his impressive statistics—he uses his platform to inspire hard work, dedication, and a positive attitude in communities across the country.

Tickets to Festival events are available at www.thebloom.com/event

Charles Mann, NFL Super Bowl Champion, NFL Pro Bowl Player,Speaker at Partlow Insurance Sports Breakfast

4/11/2025

Charles Mann, a former twelve-year veteran of the NFL, three-time Super Bowl Champion and four-time NFL Pro Bowl Player will be a speaker at the Partlow Insurance Sports Breakfast as announced by Jeremy Luttrell, Festival president. Charles is the third all-time sack leader for the Washington Redskins with 83 regular season sacks and is tied for 13th all-time in the NFL for sacks in the playoffs with ten.

After attending the University of Nevada at Reno, Charles went back to school 33 years later and spent three years working on his bachelor’s degree in business administration. Six months later Charles went back to school to complete his MBA, and 18 months later graduated with a 3.83 GPA.

Mann has started two businesses since 2000.  Alliant Merchant Services – Merchant Services Independent Sales Organization, his first business, was sold in 2010 and is still operating in Loudoun County, Virginia. In 2013 he started his second business, Charles Mann Enterprises, which focuses on Facility Support Services in the construction industry. Charles is also a licensed commercial real estate broker in Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia.

Mann is on the board of The Williams Center as a director.  The Center’s purpose is to fight against the Opioid & Mental Health nationally starting with the first out-patient treatment facility in Leesburg, Virginia.  He serves on the Advisory Board for Easter Seals, which works with children and adults by enriching their lives while expanding opportunities, especially those with disabilities. Mann, also, serves on the Virginia College Building Authority Board.  The Board approves monies for universities in Virginia to update and modernize their schools.

Charles and his wife, Tyrena, have been married since 1984 and have raised three children. Charles is a proud member of the 70 All-Time Great Washington Redskins and is a part of the Sacramento and Washington, DC Sports Hall of Fame.

In addition to speaking at the Partlow Insurance Sports Breakfast at the Tolley Dental Zone at the James R. Wilkins, Jr. Athletics & Events Center at Shenandoah University at 9 a.m., Mann will participate in the Glo Fiber Grand Feature Parade on Saturday, May 3, which begins at 1:30 p.m.

Tickets to Festival events are available at www.thebloom.com/event

Exceptional Student Athletes to be Honored At Parlow Insurance Sports Breakfast

4/8/2025

Outstanding student athletes from nine local schools will be recognized at the Partlow Insurance Sports Breakfast. Jeremy Luttrell, president of the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival®, is pleased to announce these exceptional and distinguished accomplishments will be highlighted on Saturday, May 3, at 9 a.m. in the Tolley Zone at the James R. Wilkins, Jr. Athletics & Events Center on Shenandoah University Campus.

Millbrook High School – Jada Arrington
Jada Arrington has made a lasting impact on Millbrook High School Athletics, earning 8 varsity letters throughout her career—7 in Track & Field and 1 in Basketball. Her dedication and exceptional talent have cemented her as one of the school’s standout athletes.
In Track & Field, Jada competed in Indoor Track for 3 years and Outdoor Track for 4 years, breaking multiple school records along the way. She holds three individual outdoor records: 100m (11.97), 200m (24.78), and 400m (56.39). Additionally, she is part of the 4x400m relay team that set a school record with a time of 4:02. Jada earned 1st Team honors all four years and competed at every VHSL Class 4 State Championship, achieving All-State recognition each year. Her state meet accomplishments include finishing 3rd in the 400m as a sophomore, 2nd in the 400m and 3rd in the 100m as a junior, and 3rd in the 4x400m relay as a senior.
On the basketball court, Jada played one year on JV and two years on Varsity, earning a starting role in her junior year. That season, she was recognized as a 2nd Team All-District, and 2nd Team All-Region selection, showcasing her versatility and athleticism across multiple sports.
Beyond her athletic achievements, Jada has excelled academically, maintaining an impressive 3.95 GPA. She will continue her Track & Field career at a Division I university while pursuing a degree in nursing, with the goal of becoming a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner.

James Wood- Joe Warnagiris
Joe Warnagiris, the son of Kelly & Paul Warnagiris is a senior at James Wood High School. Joe has been a member of the James Wood swim team for all 4 years of high school and earned a varsity letter each year. Joe has earned 4 regional titles in individual events across his Junior and Senior seasons. Joe made history last year becoming the first Frederick County high school swimmer to earn a State Championship title and did it twice in 2024 and 2025 in the 200 Individual Medley and the 100 Breaststroke making him a 4x State Champion. At States this year, he also broke the VHSL Class 4 State Record in the 100 breaststroke in his senior season. Throughout his 4 years on the James Wood swim team, Joe has achieved school records in 7 out of 8 Individual events and been on all 3 school record setting relays. Joe has also earned the title of the Winchester Star’s All Area Boys swimming Swimmer of the year in his Sophomore, Junior, and Senior seasons.
Joe Warnagiris has a 3.9 GPA and has made his verbal commitment to continue his academic and swimming career at the D1 level in the SEC, at The University of Missouri.

Handley – Jaishaun Offutt
Jaishaun Offutt is a senior at John Handley High School. He has earned 12 varsity letters (3 Football/4 Indoor track/3 Outdoor track/2 Basketball). Jaishaun has been a three-year starter on the football team playing Offensive line and Defensive line. He also is a 3x state champion in shot put and was selected as 1st Team All State, All Region and All District in football. Jaishaun was named Winchester Star's athlete of the year in the 23-24 school year. In football, Jaishaun has been a 3-year starter on the offensive and defensive lines. Jaishaun has earned a 3.6 GPA and has signed with Wake Forest University to play football and study Business Management.

Shenandoah University – Steven Hugney
Steven Hugney is a four-year starter for the Shenandoah University football team. The Fairfax, Virginia, native has played in 41 career games and has thrown for 66 touchdowns and 8,348 yards, while adding 1,101 rushing yards and 16 rushing touchdowns. He is a 2x All-ODAC Third Team and 3x ODAC Player of the week. In 2021, he was named ODAC Rookie of the Year. In 2024, was named ODAC Scholar-Athlete of the Year and Offensive Player of the Year, Academic All-American, 1st Team All-ODAC, 3rd Team All-Region by D3Football.com. As the quarterback, he also helped the Hornets reach the postseason for the first time in 20 years with an eight-win season in 2024. Hugney is in the top five in career passing yards, touchdowns, completions, and passing yards per game for the Shenandoah University football team.
He is graduating with a 3.93 GPA and plans to work as a Data Scientist for Strider Technologies, INC.

Warren County High School – Ava Dickerson
Ava Dickerson has earned 7 varsity letters at Warren County High School (4 volleyball/2 track/1 basketball). She was selected 1st Team All District, All Region, and All Area her Junior and Senior year. She was Region 3B Volleyball Player of the Year her Junior and Senior year, as well as 1st Team Class 3 All-State selection. Both years she also received Northen Virginia Daily Player-of-the-Year honors. In track, Ava was a 1st Team All Area selection. Her junior season she finished eighth in the high jump (5-00) at the Class 3 state meet. Dickerson won the Region 3B title in the high jump (5-02).
Ava has a 4.0 GPA and has signed a letter of intent with Wheeling University to play volleyball.

Skyline High School – Morgan Layman
Morgan Layman, Senior, of Skyline High School has earned 4 varsity letters for wrestling. She was a 4-year starter on the boys’ varsity team. She has a career record of 108-65 against mostly male competition. She has been ranked top 3 in the state for girls wrestling the past four years. Morgan was a 2023 VHSL State Champion and a 2024 and 2025 3rd place finisher at the VHSL State Girls Championships. She is also a two-time VHSL Boys State Wrestling Championships qualifier. She has also competed at the national level this season finishing 5th at The Beast of the East Tournament in Delaware, 4th at Ironman in Ohio, and 3rd at Powerade in Pennsylvania. Morgan has a GPA of 3.5 and is currently committed to Frostburg State University to further her academic and wrestling career. She will be obtaining a degree in nursing.

Clarke County High School – Tanner Sipe
Tanner Sipe is a senior at Clarke County High School where he has earned 6 varsity letters (3 football/3 basketball). He has been a 2-year starter at quarterback and defensive back on the varsity football team. As a junior, he earned 1stTeam All District, 1st Team All Region, 2nd Team All-State, and 2nd team Winchester Star All Area honors as Offensive All-Purpose as well as 1st Team All District, 1st Team All Region, and 1st Team Winchester Star All Area honors as Defensive Back. As a senior captain, he helped lead the Eagles to a 10-0 undefeated regular season and the 2A Bull Run District Championship title while also earning 1st Team All District, 1st Team All Region, and 2nd Team Winchester Star All Area honors as Offensive All Purpose as well as 1st Team All District, 1st Team All Region, and 1st Team Winchester Star All Area honors as Defensive Back. Tanner was selected by his coaches as a recipient of the 2024 Clarke County Sports - Coaches Leadership Award his senior year. He was also a 2-year starter on the varsity basketball team in his junior and senior years and was a member of the track team his junior year. In addition to his sports participation, Tanner has also been a member of the National Honor Society in his junior and senior years and was a member of the DECA Club his freshman year.
Tanner has a 4.082 GPA and will attend Bridgewater College in the fall where he has committed to playing football at the collegiate level and plans to study Engineering.

Sherando High School – Anthony Lucchiani
A senior at Sherando High School, Anthony Lucchiani earned 4 varsity letters in wrestling where he was a 3-year team captain. Anthony ended his high school wrestling career with a record of 187 wins including 119 pins to 14 losses. He is a 4-time Northwestern District champion, a 4-time regional champion, a 4-time Virginia State champion, a 2-time Beast of the East All-American, and a 2-time NHSCA All-American. He cemented himself in the record books by becoming the first ever wrestler from Sherando High School and Frederick County/Winchester to be 4-time VA State wrestling champion. Anthony is a 4-time recipient of the Frederick County Public Schools Excellence Award and was named the Winchester Star Newspaper Wrestler of the Year in 2022, 2024 and 2025.
Anthony has a 3.7 GPA working towards his advanced high school diploma and has been a member of the National Honor Society for the past 2 years. He has signed a letter of intent to continue his wrestling career at George Mason University where he will be majoring in Kinesiology with a concentration in Allied Health Sciences.

Mountain View Christian Academy – Jocelyn Mengel
Jocelyn Mengel, a senior at Mountain View Christian Academy, has distinguished herself as a leader - both as a scholar and an athlete. In her time at MVCA, Jocelyn has earned 9 varsity letters (4 volleyball, 3 basketball, 1 cheer, and 2 soccer). She has been a captain of the volleyball team for 3 years, basketball team the past 4 years, and soccer for 2 years. In her freshman year, she earned the Coach’s Award for basketball, sportsmanship award for cheer, and MVP for soccer. During her sophomore year, she earned MVP for volleyball, MVP for soccer, Coach’s Award for basketball, and was the Female Scholar-Athlete of the year. She was also recognized by the Winchester Star spotlight for soccer. During her junior year, she achieved the Coach’s Award for both volleyball and basketball. While an injury sidelined her during most of 2024, she continued to support her volleyball team in the fall until she could return. Outside of MVCA, Jocelyn has played soccer for Blue Ridge United. Since her injury, she has continued her involvement with Blue Ridge through coaching the younger players. Jocelyn has worked hard to maintain a 3.9 GPA. She is a member of both the National Honor Society and the Student Government Organization.
Jocelyn plans to attend Laurel Ridge while working at the hospital as an Emergency Department Technician before getting her bachelor's in nursing.

Tickets to Festival events are available at www.thebloom.com/events

2025 Festival Sports HOF Inductees Named

4/4/2025

Jeremy Luttrell, president of the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® is truly honored to name the inductees for the 2025 Apple Blossom Sports Hall of Fame for the Partlow Insurance Sports Breakfast. The Breakfast will be held in the Tolley Dental Zone at James R. Wilkins Athletic & Events Center on the Shenandoah University campus, Saturday, May 3, at 9 a.m.

RONNIE COMBS
Ronald Milton Combs (Ronnie) had a remarkable and impactful life, marked by a deep commitment to education, coaching, and ministry. He graduated from James Wood High School, Lord Fairfax Community College, Shepherd University (physical education) and Liberty University (counseling).
As a student athlete, he earned the Golden Helmet Award in football, lettering in football, and placing 2nd in the state in discus. In college, he continued his athletic journey by lettering in football and track and field.
Combs began his teaching and coaching career at Robert E. Aylor Middle School. After two years, his conversion to Christianity led his toward Christian education. He became a dedicated teacher, coach, and administrator at Shenandoah Valley Christian Academy, were he spent 38 years. In 2014, Ronnie joined Legacy Christian Academy, a newly established school, where he continued to inspire students and athletes. After 50 years of teaching and coaching, he retired in 2024.
In 2024, Legacy Christian Academy recognized his lifelong dedication to education and coaching by dedicating their new gymnasium to him, naming it the Ronald M. Combs Gymnasium. Throughout his career, Combs used sports as a platform for ministry, further strengthening his connection between faith and athletics and service to his community.
Professional achievements:

1974: Defensive Back Coach at Shepherd University
1978-2024: High School Coach for Basketball, Soccer, and Baseball
1978: Ordained as a pastor
1988: Became a Charter Member of the National Association of Christian Counselors
1985: Named National Christian High School Coach of the Year
1990: Recognized by ESPN Scholastic Sports of America
1994: Gatorade Coaches Card Award
1996: ODAC Soccer Coach of the Year
2000: ODAC Basketball Coach of the Year
2002: Inducted into the Wendell Dick James Wood Hall of Fame.
2017: NACA Hall of Fame Inductee

Coaching accolades:

Over 1,000 career wins.
DAC Coach of the Year.

President of Phi Epsilon Kappa.
National
- 8x NACA Basketball Champions
- 19 NACA Basketball Final Four appearances
- 2x NACA Soccer Champions
State
- 7x ODAC Basketball State Champions
- 5x ODAC Soccer State Champion
- 4x ODAC Baseball State Champion
Coached 14 Basketball All Americans

BUDDY ARMEL

Buddy Armel would become synonymous with area stock car racing, and he would take his first victory at his home track of Virginia’s Winchester speedway in the summer of 1963. His name would become a fixture at area speedways.
His career began with the old “30X90” cars, a predecessor to today’s Sprint cars. Buddy began to win when he went back to driving the No.3 S3 for Lee Shultz.  He also drove for car owners, Jerry Smith and Charlie Tabor.   He was an aggressive driver that would be willing to “trade paint” at just about any moment on the racetrack.  He was admired but feared by his competitors.
Armel took wins in Maryland at Hagerstown, and the Virginia ovals of Winchester, Saluda (now Virginia Motor Speedway,) and Eastside.  In Pennsylvania he had wins at Bedford, Selinsgrove, and old St. Thomas Speedway.
Buddy, his wife, Betty. and their four children Tony, Brenda, Tommy and Barbara were all heavily involved in Buddy’s racing. Tony was a rising star, in his own right, but tragically passed away in 1981. Tommy was Hagerstown’s 1987 Daredevil and 1992 Semi Late champion and the 2009 Winchester Late Model champion, while Brenda was Winchester’s U-Car champion in 2013.

The wins were many, the championships were plenty, but through it all Buddy was a racer. He didn’t race to make friends. He was there to win.  He was able to accomplish that by those who aided his career for nearly four decades. It is said the Armel family has a bond, like no other, and to this day the phrase, “It’s an Armel thing”, will last forever.
Professional achievements:

All-time late model winner at Winchester – 101 feature wins
Winchester track titles – 1965, 1070, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1980, 1984
Hagerstown Speedway – 81 feature wins
Hagerstown Speedway five-time track titles – 1971, 1975,1976, 1977, 1989
Winchester 200 – 1975, 1978
Win at Johnny Roberts Memorial – 1978
Win at Conococheague 100 - 1983
Ronnie McBee tribute at Hagerstown – 1986
Lee Stultz Memorial – 1988
Armel’s last season of his career – left with 202 feature wins - 1991
Inducted into the Auto Racing Club of Hagerstown (ARCH) 1996

Tickets to Festival events are available at www.thebloom.com/events

Festival Announces Selection of Princesses

4/4/2025

The selection of Princesses to serve in the Court of Queen Shenandoah XCVIII for the 2025 Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® has been announced by festival officials. The princesses include Omaieobari Ifejisola Aarami, Lauren Mackinnon Dennard, Reese Kaylie Luong, Ava Lynn Mullins, and Emeryce Marie Worrell.

Omaieobari Ifejisola Aarami is the daughter of Josephine and Jimajima Aarami, of Cross Junction, VA. She is a senior representing James Wood High School where she is a member of the varsity track and field as well as sideline cheer team. She is a recipient of the Academic Excellence Award and member of the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America. She was crowned the 2024 James Wood High School Homecoming Queen. She enjoys singing and is proud to have presented a legislative bill to the legislative delegation. After graduation, she hopes to attend George Mason University to pursue psychology and the ROTC program with the Army National Guard.

Lauren Mackinnon Dennard is the daughter of Amy and Keith Dennard of Winchester, VA. She is the granddaughter of Lauraly and Allan Stanford of Winter Haven, FL and the late Jan Dennard and Dr. Ivey C. Dennard. She is a senior representing Millbrook High School where she was crowned the 2024 Homecoming Queen. She is a member of the National Honor Society, serving as president, and the Key Club. Lauren is a four-year member of the swim team, serving as captain for two years and is the recipient of the 2023-24 coach’s award. She has been a two-year member of the outdoor track and field team and has served as the class of 2025 historian/social media coordinator since freshman year. She attends Mountain Vista Governor’s School, Fellowship Bible Church, Rhythm Studio Dance, and Ashburn Academy of Dance.

Reese Kaylie Luong is the daughter of Katie and Rick Luong of Stephens City, VA. She is the granddaughter of Kathy and Richard Lewis of Alexandria, VA, Anh and Dug Luong of Ashburn, VA, and Helen Tran and Paul Nguyen of Fairfax, VA. She is a senior representing Sherando High School where she was crowned the 2024 Homecoming Queen. Reese is a member of the National Honor Society and is a recent inductee into the National Society of High School Scholars. She has participated in the band and swim team throughout high school and was the 2024 swim team captain. She has also participated on the Sherando Sharks summer swim team for eight years and the Handley club lacrosse team. She is a lifeguard/swimming instructor for the Frederick County Parks & Recreation Department and looks forward to her work with the Frederick County Fire and Rescue Department as a volunteer EMT in Middletown, VA.

Ava Lynn Mullins is the daughter of Sabrina and Jason Mullins, of Clearbrook, VA. She is the granddaughter of Donna and Terry McGuire of Delray, WV, Teresa Mullins of Stephens City, Brenda Harrington of Winchester, and the late Michael Mullins. She is a senior representing Eukarya Christian Academy. She is a three-year varsity letter recipient in volleyball and served as captain her senior year. She is a member of the student council. Ava is currently dual enrolled with Hillsdale College and Judson College. Ava works at Love at First Bite catering and her community volunteerism includes United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley, Bright Futures, The Laurel Center, The Rescue Mission, and Salvation Army. After graduation, Ava plans to attend James Madison University and hopes to study abroad.

Emeryce Marie Worrell is the daughter of Shelley and Rudolph Worrell of Winchester She is the granddaughter of Maureen and Donizetti Worrell of Stephens City, Sonia McWilliams of Jamaica, and the late Sherry and Manuel Huckabay. She is a senior representing John Handley High School where she has a 4.2GPA. She is a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Vice-President of the Black Student Union, a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Women With a Purpose Club, and the Student Council Association. Emeryce was voted Handley Track Athlete of the Year in 2024 as well as Winchester Star Athlete of the Year in 2023 and 2024. She is a four-time state champion in track. She is captain of the Indoor and Outdoor Track Team and captain of the Handley Women's Soccer Team. She is a member of Virginia Development Academy Soccer Club in Woodbridge VA and is committed to play soccer at Auburn University next year.

The Princesses will accompany Queen Shenandoah XCVIII and her Court to all Festival functions throughout the 98th Festival scheduled for April 25th to May 4th, 2025. They will participate in the Coronation Ceremony to be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. at John Handley High School. They will attend the Queen's Ball and Dance Party Presented by Insurance Center of Winchester, to celebrate the coronation of Queen Shenandoah XCVIII to be held Friday, May 2nd beginning at 8:30 pm at The George Washington Hotel Ball Room. They will ride on the Royal Float in the Glo Fiber Grand Feature Parade scheduled to begin at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, May 3, 2025.

Multitalented Alfonso Ribeiro to serve as Festival’s Grand Marshal

4/3/2025

Alfonso Ribeiro, host of Dancing with the Stars and America’s Funniest Home Videos has been named Grand Marshal of the 98th Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® by Jeremy Luttrell, Festival president.

Alfonso Ribeiro’s iconic television personality danced its way into our hearts with his talents as an actor, TV director, award-winning dancer, and Broadway star. Ribeiro has spent over 45 years leaving his unique mark on television, theater, and pop culture worldwide, having started his career at the age of 8!!

Ribeiro is currently hosting his 10th season of “America’s Funniest Home Videos” the beloved show is currently in its 35th Season. Continuing to demonstrate its timeless appeal as the longest running series on ABC.

Alfonso also hosts “Dancing with the Stars” on ABC.  This past season set multiple records, including all-time highs in viewership and voting. His love of the ballroom and the series come through in his signature warm enthusiastic delivery each week.

Ribeiro also currently hosts a third series for ABC, the Saturday Morning wildlife series “Jack Hanna’s Passport” from Hearst Media Production Group.

Ribeiro returned as the host of A Capitol Fourth the 44th annual edition of America's national Independence Day celebration broadcasted live from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol on PBS and will be hosting the beloved Special again this year.

Previously he hosted Game Show Network’s six seasons of the hit “Catch 21”, for which his work garnered him two Emmy Nominations.

Ribeiro began his career as a child actor encouraged by his mother and father throughout. Most notably, he landed on Broadway playing the lead role in the Tony®-winning musical “The Tap Dance Kid.” As news of Ribeiro’s tap dancing and singing skills spread, he was offered a recording contract with Island Records, for whom he released several dance/pop singles, as well as his role in Michael Jackson’s 1984 “Billie Jean” Pepsi commercial.

Ribeiro moved next to series television in the long-running NBC sitcom “Silver Spoons,” making him a teen idol. After earning a theater arts education from Cal State University, Los Angeles, he was given the opportunity to choose a role on the established sitcom “A Different World” or a new pilot called “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” Showing an adventurous streak, he chose the latter and created the lovable iconic character of “Carlton Banks” for which he is known for throughout the world.

Having grown up in front of the camera, he knew that opportunities existed behind the camera as well and became a sitcom director. His diverse resume includes popular series like “In the House,” “Shake It Up,” “Are We There Yet?,” “The Wannabes,” “Meet the Browns,” “Cuts,” “Eve,” “One on One” and “All of Us.”

Ribeiro continued to make good use of his dancing skills and his competitive nature in 2014 when he won the 19th season of “Dancing with the Stars.” After finishing in first place, he hosted the nationwide “Dancing with the Stars” live tour.

Golf is also one of Ribeiro’s many passions, and he is currently a PGA TOUR Champions Ambassador.

He resides in California with his wife and four children.

Ribeiro will make an appearance at the Partlow Insurance Sports Breakfast in the Tolley Dental Zone of the James R. Wilkins, Jr. Athletics and Events Center on the Shenandoah University campus, Saturday, May 3, at 9 a.m. That afternoon he will head up the Glo Fiber Grand Feature Parade, which steps off at 1:30 p.m.
Tickets to Festival events are available at www.thebloom.com/events

NERD, Robert Carradine, steps into role of Court Ambassador

3/31/2025

Robert Carradine, an American actor and musician, will serve as the Court Ambassador at the Coronation of Queen Shenandoah XCVIII on Friday, May 2, at John Handley High School at 1:30 p.m. Jeremy Luttrell, Festival president, announces, additionally, Carradine will make appearances at Festival events and will ride in the Hang10 Firefighters’ and Glo Fiber Grand Feature Parades. Tickets to Festival events are available at www.thebloom.com/events.

Carradine's biggest film success came when he starred in Revenge of the Nerds as the lead nerd ‘Lewis Skolnick’. To prepare for the comedy, Carradine spent time at The University of Arizona, where the movie was filmed, participating in rush week. "No fraternity picked him, convincing Carradine that he was indeed right for the part of the nerd that nobody wanted to claim as their own." Carradine reprised the role of Skolnick in three sequels, taking over as executive producer in the latter two.

Robert is the youngest member of the Carradine family, which includes actors, David and Keith. Robert was instrumental in securing his brothers to perform with him in one of the most unusual casting arrangements in movie history. Together the Carradines played the ‘Younger Brothers’ in The Long Riders along with three other sets of acting brothers: Stacy & James Keach, Dennis & Randy Quaid, and Christopher & Nicholas Guest.

Carradine considered his "first ambition" to be of car racing. He found that role in acting and won the cross-country road race, beating the favorite, Coy "Cannonball" Buckman’, played by his brother, David.

Robert landed a demanding role in Hal Ashby's Oscar-winning Vietnam War drama, Coming Home, which starred Jane Fonda and Jon Voight. His performance was acclaimed outstanding.

On television, Robert appeared on his brother David's series, Kung Fu, as ‘Sunny Jim’.  Carradine played ‘Robert Cohn’ in the television mini-series version of Ernest Hemingway's The Sun Also Rises. He appeared in the HBO mini-series, Conspiracy: The Trial of the Chicago 8. Additionally, he was nominated for the CableACE Award in for Showtime’s As Is.....perhaps the most demanding role of his career.

Robert played father ‘Sam McGuire on the very popular Lizzie McGuire from 2001-2003. The show starred Hilary Duff as ‘Lizzie’.

Additional feature film work includes the western, Justice, as well as the holiday comedies, American Christmas and High Holiday. Recently, he completed the features, Cowboy Killer: A Love Story and 3 Killer Pigs.

While in Winchester, Robert Carradine will appear in-person for multiple movie screenings and live Q&As at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema. The first will be a World Premiere Screening of the comedy/thriller The Cowboy Killer at 7:30 pm on Thursday, May 1. The screening and Q&A will also feature Winchester-raised, LA-based filmmakers Ben Solenberger and Jaymes Camery.

Robert will also participate in a rare theatrical screening of the 1980 film The Big Red One: The Reconstruction, which also starred Mark Hamill and Lee Marvin. The screening will take place at 11 am on Sunday, May 4. The 'reconstruction' title refers to is the re-working, re-editing, and re-structuring of Sam Fuller's The Big Red One bringing it closer to the film Fuller had originally envisioned. It includes almost 48 additional minutes of footage which was not utilized in the film's original release.

Family-Friendly Apple Blossom Carnival Brings Fun, Thrills, and Excitement

3/31/2025

Get ready for an unforgettable family experience as the Powers & Thomas Midway & Entertainment Carnival rolls into Winchester, VA for the 98th Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival®. This highly anticipated event promises a spectacular blend of thrilling rides, delicious food, vibrant entertainment, and family friendly fun for all ages. Mark your calendars – the carnival will be held at Apple Blossom Mall from April 25 to May 4, 2025, located at 1850 Apple Blossom Drive, Winchester, VA.

From adrenaline-pumping rides to traditional carnival games and everything in between, the Apple Blossom Carnival offers something for everyone. Highlights of the carnival include:

Exciting Rides: From classic Ferris wheels to the heart-racing Alien Abduction spaceship, there’s a ride for every thrill-seeker!
Delicious Food: Indulge in classic carnival fare including cotton candy, funnel cakes, popcorn, and savory treats.
Games and Prizes: Try your luck at traditional carnival games and win exciting prizes!

"We are so excited to bring the Powers & Thomas Midway Entertainment Carnival back to Winchester," said Festival President, Jeremy Luttrell. "This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, with something for everyone to enjoy. The Festival, in partnership with Powers & Thomas Midway & Entertainment, and Apple Blossom Mall have reshaped the carnival experience to make it more family friendly and welcoming to guests. We can’t wait to share the fun with our community!"

Carnival goers of all ages should expect several new changes this year including:

Carnival entry fee $5.00 (cash only.) Children 5 and under are FREE.
All guests aged 17 and under must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or chaperone who is at least 21 years old. Each adult may supervise up to four minors at a time. Parents should be advised that minors may no longer be dropped off at the carnival without proper adult supervision.
No reentry if guests leave the carnival.
Entry and ticket sales end one hour before posted closing time each day.
No backpacks or large bags. Small bags 14 inches by 9 inches or smaller are permitted. Diaper bags that have necessary items for small children are permitted. All bags are subject to bag check by security.
No masks. Virginia Code 18.2-422 states it is a felony for a person 16 or older to wear a mask in public.
One entry and exit point to the carnival.
Increased security presence in and around the carnival.

You may be wondering, why all the changes this year? The new carnival location requires additional private security officers, police overtime, barriers, and new procedures.  The entry fee covers additional security officers for bag checks and increased patrols in and around the carnival. The fee also covers the expense of renting jersey barriers and chain link fence to create a safer perimeter for guests.

Festival Executive Director, Brad Veach explains, “Our goal as a festival is to provide the safest environment possible.  We want to do everything in our power to avoid incidents like we see in other parts of the US.  We see tragic events like the truck that plowed through the crowd in New Orleans this past New Year’s Day, and we are working with our local law enforcement and emergency management officials to minimize these types of risks.  Unfortunately, all of this adds cost to the overall festival experience.”

In recent years, there has been an influx of teen-related incidents reported by law enforcement.  The new 17 and under policy helps ensure that minors are properly supervised by a responsible adult.  Additionally, there has been an increase in face coverings including bandanas and balaclavas.  The festival has worked closely with local law enforcement to enact these new policies and to comply with Virginia Code 18.2-422.

Ticket Information:
Carnival entry fee: $5.00
Children 5 and under enter free
One Day Unlimited Ride Wristband: $40.00
Single ride tickets are available for purchase
Tickets can be purchased online or at the carnival gate. For the latest updates, follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @officialsabf.

2025 Carnival Hours:
Friday, April 25 - 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Saturday, April 26 - Noon – 11:00 pm
Sunday, April 27 - Noon-10:00 pm
Monday, April 28 - CLOSED
Tuesday, April 29 – 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Wednesday, April 30 – 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Thursday, May 1 – 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Friday, May 2 - 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Saturday, May 3 - Noon – 11:00 pm
Sunday, May 4 - Noon-7:00 pm

Whether you're a local or visiting for the first time, the Apple Blossom Powers & Thomas Midway & Entertainment Carnival is a must-attend event that’s sure to create lasting memories. Gather your family and friends, and don’t miss out on the fun!