🌱 Valley Playhouse Gets A Rebrand + Speed Cameras Approved For Safety

Hi all. I'm back with your fresh copy of the Harrisonburg Patch newsletter, fresh off the presses. Let's get this Friday started off right with a quick dive into the most important things happening in town these days.

But first, your local weather:

• Friday: Partly sunny. High: 71 Low: 42.
• Saturday: Mostly cloudy. High: 68 Low: 47.

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Here are the top three stories in Harrisonburg today:

1. Harrisonburg's community theater, Valley Playhouse, has undergone a rebranding and is now known as Friendly City Players. The change aims to reflect a more inclusive and welcoming identity. The theater is excited about its upcoming "Season of Hope." The upcoming season includes shows such as "Tiny Beautiful Things," "Urinetown: The Musical," and "Peter and the Starcatcher." There will be a meet-and-greet event soon for those interested in learning more about Friendly City Players. (WHSV)
2. Allison Dugan has been appointed as the new director of the Shenandoah Valley Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in Harrisonburg. Dugan, who previously worked as a business advisor and assistant director at Shenandoah Valley SBDC, will take over for Joyce Krech, who retired after more than 20 years in the position. Dugan aims to build on the organization's vision and provide targeted services to support small businesses in the Shenandoah Valley. (The News Virginian)
3. The Harrisonburg City Council has approved the use of speed enforcement cameras in work zones and school crossing zones. The decision was made to address safety concerns on East Market Street, where major construction is underway. The Public Works Department plans to deploy trailer-mounted cameras that will capture the rear license plates of vehicles exceeding the speed limit. This measure aims to change driver behavior and improve safety in the work zone. (WHSV)

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Today and tomorrow in Harrisonburg:

Friday, May 26

• Blue Ridge Area Food Bank Benefit Day At Nothing Bundt Cakes (9:00 AM)

Saturday, May 27

• Book Sale At Shenandoah Community Library, Shenandoah (10:00 AM)
• Free Confetti Bundtlets At Nothing Bundt Cakes (10:00 AM)

From my notebook:

• New homes in the Harrisonburg area won't stay on the market long. If you're looking to buy, take a peek at the newest listings, including a residence on Alexander Hamilton Lane priced at $249,900 or another on Blaze Court priced at $375,000. (Harrisonburg Patch)
• Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport is nearing the completion of its new hangars, which will cater to business clients and contribute to the economic development of the region. The expansion of hangar space aims to attract more private, corporate, and aviation-related businesses. (WHSV)
• Helicopters equipped with saw blades are being used to trim vegetation along power lines in the Shenandoah Valley. This annual trimming process helps prevent power outages by removing branches and trees that could potentially cause disruptions during storms. (VPM News)

Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Friday. 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.