2007 in Rappahannock County was a year not without

2007 in Rappahannock County was a year not without

significant happenings. Some of them noteworthy

and others tragic like the senseless killing of Emily Jane Hilscher in April. She was a victim and her death left a community saddened and a family without their youngest for the holidays.

In that same month, the Robeys lost their home to a fire but the community outpouring and support was generous and the Robeys look to a much happier new year

Staph infections plagued local athletes.

Amy Hitt made an unsuccessful hid for Wes MilTs seat for Jackson District.

On brighter notes, the Civil War Memorial in the Town of Washington received some long needed repairs and another project of historic proportions - the Scrabble School Preservation Foundation — received a major infusion of funds to continue its metamorphosis into a Senior Center which will also house a center to celebrate African-American History in Rappahannock.Speaking

of metamorphosis, the Schoolhouse in Sperryville now houses several offices for Rappahannock's NonProfits. It’s, networking in a nutshell as many of like mind are now linked together in one place.

The Rappahannock National Rank spread its wings in 2007, adding locations in Warrenton, Middleburg and Winchester bringing the total number of branches to seven. While adding services, they certainly haven’t lost their country charm thanks to the leadership of Mike Leake.

Roger Mello left Rappahannock County High School to become the new principal of Culpeper Comity’s second high school.

Irving Smith set a new track and field record and Richie Burke’s girls softball team were District Champs.

In addition to coaching a great team, Burke coasted into summer at the helm of a community effort to bring back the fireworks which he, and many others, did with a bang. Bill Fletcher’s fields will undoubtedly roll on to host future fireworks celebrations.

The Panthers also got a new football coach in the person of Mike Williams.

.Laurel Mills made the front page as they were voted the “Best Country Store” in Virginia.

Ira Wayne Cloniger was finally sentenced after his 2006 stabbing which had Larry Sherertz and crew working plenty of overtime.

And speaking of the sheriff there will be a new one come January 1. Connie Compton Smith was elected over two others leaving some elated and others bitter. She will be the first woman to serve as a sheriff in Rappihannnrk County.

Land continues to be preserved.

Development efforts seem to be just that — efforts.

Rappahannock County remains low on the totem pole for anything remotely considered new.

Tourism in the county got brief spikes with the 10-K race, the Relay for Life, the Rappahannock Rough Ride and the Third Annual Artists of Rappahannock Studio and Gallery Tour and the Washington Hospitality and Visitors Association Christmas in Little Washington event.

The staff of the Rappahannock News is here to deliver the news of the new year. We will strive to do that in a timely, sensitive and forthright manner and hope that it is filled with all good things for our readership.

Launched

Our big news as we head into a new year is that

the website for the Rappahannock News has a

new look. Check it out at www.rappnews.com.

Its been many months in the making and undoubtedly will have some bugs to tweak in the following weeks but we hope that you will enjoy its new took and expanded offerings.

News By You shouldn’t be overlooked as a vehicle for sharing with your neighbors and community, tidbits of interest that may not make the print version. You can log on and post a favorite event at your church, reactions to an art show or a recent promotion. This is a spot for news by you and for you.

Photos By You is a great place to share your photos of crystalline ice forests in the Shenandoah, a recent bear visit or that perfect sunset over Old Rag.

Log on, register and discover this Latest vehicle for enjovmg The Rappahannock News.

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