🌱 Two Fatally Shot Near JMU + 'Blacks Run Clean Up Day' Event

Hi all. I'm back in your inbox this morning to walk you through the most important things happening locally.

But first, today's weather:

Partly sunny; breezy, cooler. High: 62 Low: 40.

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Here are the top three stories today in Harrisonburg:

1. Two people were fatally shot at an off-campus party near James Madison University (JMU) on Saturday night, including a 17-year-old. Police responded to reports of shots fired in the 2300 block of Newberry Lane in Rockingham County. The victims were not students at JMU. The investigation is currently ongoing with no suspect yet in custody and authorities are encouraging anyone with information to come forward. (The Winchester Star)
2. Volunteers made a positive environmental impact on Saturday for the 25th annual Blacks Run Clean Up Day. People of all ages helped clean up debris and litter, which will improve water quality and reduce storm runoff near Blacks Run. Twenty trees were also planted at the Heritage Oaks Golf Course. (WHSV)
3. Texas Inn in downtown Harrisonburg is raising money for the family of Katie Seekford, an employee who passed away in early April. Seekford was described as "a kind, caring person who never met a stranger." Donation jars are available on the counters at Texas Inn. (WHSV)

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Today in Harrisonburg:

• Gardening For Kids At Page Public Library (4:00 PM)
• Jazz Night Jams At Three Notch’d Valley Collab House (7:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• The Harrisonburg Turks are seeking host families for their players this season. Benefits for housing a player include free entrance to every Valley League Baseball game as well as other perks. (WHSV)
• A ribbon-cutting ceremony is coming up for two new Harrisonburg Public Works greenhouses on Apr. 20! These greenhouses will help with many environmental programs and initiatives in the area. (Daily News Record)
• The historic Main House is getting some beautiful renovations! Four new suites will be added, and are perfect for your next getaway. (Visit Harrisonburg Virginia via Facebook)

Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Monday off right! I'll see you soon.

— Sean Peek

About me: Sean Peek is a writer and entrepreneur with a degree in English Literature from Weber State University. Over the years, he has worked as a copywriter, editor, SEO specialist, and marketing director for various digital media companies. He currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.