TOP STORY
Photograph by Aimee Cregger
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Feeding The World
Volunteer Farm C.E.O. Bob Blair Helps More Individuals Year After Year
By Aimee Cregger
It was the summer of 2003 when Bob Blair woke with more than a good night's rest. An idea had been implanted in his brain, quite possibly during his REM cycle.
The complete concept of what he should do, right down to the name, Volunteer Farm, had been given to him. Blair says even the fact that he should talk to 100 people to get the farm started was there.
"The idea of helping people wasn't new to me," Blair said. "I got orders to do so a long time ago and haven't been told to stop."
The now Woodstock resident is originally from Atlanta, Ga., but moved to the Valley in 1972 and purchased the farm in 1973. He worked in government for many years with several titles and retired as Director of Intergovernmental Affairs.
Blair has previously volunteered with the Red Cross and the United Methodist Disaster Relief. He estimates that since the 1970s, he has assisted with about 400 disasters in some way.
"It's just in my blood," said Blair.
The farm was formed under the World Foundation for Children, all founded by Blair, as a non-profit organization in 2003. There are 65 acres of fruits and vegetables being grown each year that are then donated to local food banks.
Volunteers plant and harvest the food on the farm all year long, with about 75 percent being under the age of 18.
"Kids come to help and they leave with the understanding of what it is to help other people," Blair said. "It amazes me the young children who...
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TOP NEWS
From State Police To Town Chief
Woodstock Names First Sgt. Bryan Hutcheson As New Chief Of Police
By Aimee Cregger
WOODSTOCK – After months searching for the right candidate, the Woodstock Town Council named Virginia State Police First Sgt. Bryan Hutcheson as new Chief of Police. Hutcheson will begin his new position on Feb. 8.
Chief Jerry Miller announced his retirement last fall after 25 years...[MORE]
Rewarding The Few, The Proud
Strasburg Chamber Holds Annual Banquet For Community Awards
By Aimee Cregger
Strasburg – As another year came to an end, many reflected on those who made a difference in the community. On Saturday, Jan. 23, the Strasburg Chamber of Commerce held its annual banquet awarding many worthy individuals.
Six main awards were received on Saturday evening including: ...[MORE]
Shenandoah County Free Clinic Receives Tax-Exempt Status
By Aimee Cregger
The Shenandoah County Free Clinic in Woodstock received approval for real property tax-exempt status from the Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, Jan. 26.
Woodstock’s free clinic operates to serve those who are at or under the poverty level and do not have health insurance. The facilit...[MORE]
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