“We have not come this far, only to come to this far.” – Jennifer Flynn, Deputy Superintendent, Shenandoah National Park, 13 September 2015

Nearly 150 members, partners, friends and guests gathered in mid-September 2015 at White House Farm outside Luray, VA to celebrate a quarter-century of conservation successes in the greater Shenandoah Valley region.

A lovely afternoon event, the program included farm tours, live music entertainment, educational exhibits, a silent auction, a picnic supper, a membership meeting, and time for folks to catch up.

Event sponsors included MillerCoors, Union Bank and Trust, and numerous other companies, organizations, and foundations to whom we are very grateful for their outstanding support. Click here for a complete listing of our sponsors.

Jennifer Flynn, Deputy Superintendent of Shenandoah National Park, provided a keynote address, telling the crowd, “From the work you have done to help preserve the Natural Bridge of Virginia to  your vigilance in assuring development in the Valley is compatible with its culture and environment, you have much to be proud of.” Then she concluded, “[We must] challenge ourselves to achieve new goals and greater things in the year ahead …. We have not come this far, only to come this far. I look forward to seeing how far we can go together.”

During the membership meeting, VCC Board Chairman Mark Botkin presided over the re-election of two Board members: VCC Vice-Chairman Bobby Whitescarver and VCC Treasurer Butch Snow. Mark also presented awards to the following individuals for their outstanding efforts over the past year: Conservator of the Year – Joe McCue; Volunteer of the Year – Brenda Mead; Director’s Recognitions – Pat and Chuck Blackley, Bob Barron, Barbara Brothers, Bill Howard, and Kathy Moore; and Special Staff Recognition – Sheryl Van Gundy.

Maddie MacNeil and the members of Hound Dog Hill Band provided the music. Catering was by Shaffers Catering from Woodstock. Silent auction items were contributed by Shenandoah Valley artists and various historic inns and hotels in the Valley.

All attendees for the afternoon event were especially grateful to Scott Plein (owner of White House Farm), Chris Anderson (Executive Director, White House Farm Foundation), and the farm staff for their exemplary hospitality.

In the days and weeks that followed the event, we received many wonderful comments from attendees. Here’s a sampler:

“What a great program! The entertainment was outstanding, the food was first rate, and the company couldn’t be beat. You’ve won a new convert, and hope you’ll have us back again.” – Jim M., Exhibitor

“It was a pleasure to spend the afternoon with the VCC. Please keep us in mind as you continue the mission of the VCC in the Valley.” – Walter H., Sponsor

“What a wonderful event! The program was informative and moved along, not too long either. Good music, good food, good company, and what a lovely place! Thank you for orchestrating such a lovely event.” – Sara J., Partner

“A perfect day at the 25th in Luray. Good music and food, too!” – Bob B., Volunteer

“Congratulations on a great 25th anniversary meeting! We enjoyed seeing friends and meeting new folks, and are looking forward to getting more involved in the wonderful work of VCC.” – Linda H., New VCC Member