Patrick Hite

2 days ago | newsleader.com | Patrick Hite

Fifteen local charities will receive grants from the Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge’s Youth Philanthropy Council (YPC). The YPC, composed of 29 local high school students, learned about nonprofit operations and community challenges. The grants will focus on community needs such as homelessness and access to basic resources. A grant celebration will be held at the Staunton Innovation Hub on May 14.

6 days ago | newsleader.com | Patrick Hite

Gypsy Hill Park pool will open May 24 with modifications due to safety concerns with the pool house. The women's restroom and rear staircase are unusable, with limited access to the patio. Temporary restrooms, handwashing, and rinsing stations will be installed. The Gypsy Hill Park pool is scheduled to open in two weeks, on May 24, but there will be some changes after an inspection identified some safety concerns with the current pool house.

1 week ago | newsleader.com | Patrick Hite

ACTSports launched a boys volleyball program this spring due to increased demand and logistical feasibility. While girls volleyball is popular in area high schools, boys volleyball is less common, prompting ACTSports to foster its growth. Experienced coaches provided fundamental training, focusing on serving, passing, and setting, leading to significant player improvement. ACTSports is hoping to grow the sport of boys volleyball in the area.

1 week ago | newsleader.com | Patrick Hite

Oak Grove Theater, a community theater group performing outdoors in Verona, Virginia, has announced its 2025 summer season. The season includes five productions: "A Comedy of Tenors," "9 to 5," "Visit to a Small Planet," "The Good Doctor," and "Deadwood Dick or a Game of Gold."Season tickets are required for admission and can be purchased online or at the gate during the first show.

1 week ago | newsleader.com | Patrick Hite

The Valley Wind Ensemble will hold a free concert at Staunton High School on May 12. The ensemble, led by James Madison University Professor Emeritus Stephen Bolstad, is celebrating its 10th anniversary. The concert will feature a diverse program including works by Kenneth Hesketh, David Gillingham, Frank Ticheli, and Carl Orff. Celebrating its 10th year, the Valley Wind Ensemble is planning a free concert May 12 at 7 p.m. at Staunton High School's John Lewis Auditorium.