🌱 Double Homicide Investigation + Engaging Preschooler Field Trip

Hello all. It's me, Rose Mendez, your host of the Winchester Patch newsletter — here to tell you all the most important things happening locally.

But first, today's weather:

Mostly sunny and cool. High: 56 Low: 34.

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Here are the top three stories today in Winchester:

1. The Frederick County Sheriff's Office is investigating a double homicide with limited details released. The sheriff's office received a 911 call early on Thursday morning regarding an individual who had reportedly been shot at a home on Fromans Road. Upon arrival, deputies discovered two victims who were both dead. The incident is considered a targeted attack, not a random act of violence. Anyone who has information about the homicides is encouraged to contact the Frederick County Sheriff's Office Investigator B. Edwards. (The Winchester Star)
2. A Virginia teacher took preschoolers on a wild adventure recently. Master teaching artist Terlene Terry-Todd from the Wolf Trap Institute for Early Learning Through the Arts transformed students into exotic animals while teaching about reading, counting, and the environment. The program's three master teaching artists visited all four elementary schools in Winchester, augmenting and reinforcing the instructional curriculum with puppetry, dance, and drama. The program was funded by a $15,000 state grant that covered all costs, including travel and lodging. (WSET)
3. Blue Ridge Hospice had 22,000 volunteer hours contributed by supporters last year. At the hospice's recent annual appreciation dinner, management expressed gratitude to the 150 volunteers who attended, including founder Helen Zebarth and dog therapy volunteer Mary Ellen Duffy, who introduced Keely and Bella, an understudy, to the crowd. Hospice management told attendees to be proud of their work and made mention of their mission to "brighten life's journey with quality and compassionate care for all whom we are privileged to serve." (Royal Examiner)

From our sponsor:

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Today in Winchester:

• Transportation Committee Meeting At 107 N. Kent St. (8:30 AM)
• Ribbon Cutting At Shenandoah Civil War Museum (10:00 AM)
• Piano Masterclass: World Of The Piano With Terrence Wilson At Armstrong Concert Hall (10:00 AM)

From my notebook:

• Interested in owning a home in or around Winchester? Check out five new properties that just hit the market, including a home in the Stephens City area with three beds and two baths for $299,900 and another with four beds and four baths for $499,900. (Winchester Patch)
• The Frederick County Virginia Sheriff's Office is strongly encouraging any community members with information about the double homicide on Thursday to speak to investigators. Specifically, anyone who traveled through or lives in the 300-500 block of Froman's Road between Apr. 19 and Apr. 20 is of special interest. (Frederick County Virginia Sheriff's Office via Facebook)
• Winchester Area SPCA just added new kitties to its "Adoptable Cats" photo album! If you're looking to add a furry friend to your family, click on each picture for more information about the adorable, adoptable cats at the shelter. (Winchester Area SPCA via Facebook)

Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Monday off right! I'll be back in your inbox soon with your next update.

— Rose Mendez

About me: Rose Mendez is a freelance writer. She is studying English Literature at Hunter College. She loves reading, walking around the city, and coffee!