Exemplary citizen honored for efforts:  William "Bill" Shendow is being remembered by friends, family and colleagues as a loyal and hardworking contributor to his hometown.  Shendow was an influential local businessman, politician, and educator; and will be remembered as a pillar of instituations such as the Winchester-Frederick County Chamber of Commerce (now the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber) and Shenandoah University (SU).  SU President Tracy Fitzsimmons said Shendow's work at the university "really helped put Shenandoah on the map.  I would credit Bill with the fact that Shendandoah University's culture includes a deep committment to public service and engagement with the community."  A celebration of Shendow's life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at First Baptist Church in Winchester.  (Taken from the article in The Winchester Star for Tuesday, October 23, 2018.)

Beware of the Bears:  A mama black bear and her two cubs were spotted in Mount Hebron Cemetery in downtown Winchester on Monday, October 22nd.  This is not the first time the city has been visited by bears.  However, authorities typically don't intervene unless a bear becomes a nuisance, then they try to push the animal to a more suitable habitat.  Keep trash cans covered with secure lids and take down bird feeders as garbage and birdseed often attract bears.  The police are monitoring the bears and advise people to keep their distance.  (Taken from an article in The Winchester Star for Tuesday, October 23rd.)

Frederick could be close the naming new school.  The Frederick County School Board could vote on the name of its 12th elementary school as soon as Nov 7, said Steve Edwards, the dividion's coordinator of policy, records management and communications.  Construction of the $27 million, 82,300-square foot school began in July on Flyfoot Drive in the Stephenson area.  It is slated to open in the fall of 2020.  Some of the suggested names include "Apple Blossom," Burnt Factory," Patsy Cline," "Shenandoah Valley," "Thomas Malcolm," Willa Cather," Woolen Mill," "Limestone" and Snowden Springs."  The full list of that met school division standards can be found at www.frederick.k12.va.us/about_us/departments/planning__development/12th_elementary_school/naming_of_fcps_12th_elementary_school.  (For more information see The Winchester Star article for Tuesday, October 23rd.)