The Shadow
As I settle into my chair for a long winter’s nap to reflect upon 2023, a humbling sight unfolds. Our new Facebook “The Shadow” group has swelled into a community of 1400+ inquiring minds in mere days, each one a beacon of wonderful stories that weave our community together. It’s a testament to the power of shared stories and collective curiosity that such growth has been achieved. If you haven’t joined our group and want to be at the fountainhead of truth served with a side of collective sass, head over to the Virginian Review Facebook page and look for “The Shadow” group.
I want to take a moment to tip my hat to the original Shadow, Buck Rumpf. Buck was the epitome of journalistic honor, wielding his pen with the utmost fairness and an unyielding commitment to the truth. His legacy is that of a steadfast guardian of integrity, whose words served as a compass guiding the community through the shadows. I have learned from the readers in our Facebook group he was well-loved and considered a Saint.
Reader Christopher V. shared a fond memory of Buck and Katy Rumpf. “When I remember The Shadow, I have fond memories of Buck Rumpf. He was a good gentleman, and his precious wife Katy will turn 98 on Thursday, Dec 20. I’ve had the privilege to sing Beulah Land with her and Carolyn Boothe many times in church. My heart has been blessed through the years because of these people.”
Amen, dear reader. Buck, with his storied history of observing and reporting, would surely have raised a glass to his wife’s longevity and the vibrant life they shared. And while Buck’s quill has been passed to me, I want to assure you that the spirit of “The Shadow” remains guided by the same steadfast principles of honor, fairness, and truth that Buck Rumpf so revered. His enduring legacy of integrity and ethical journalism continues to be the guiding light for the column’s path forward.
Drum roll, please! I can’t miss an opportunity for my favorite topic: The “Weenie Awards.” Firstly, I’ve caught a whiff of something more than just political debate in the Clifton Forge Council chambers. Rumor has it, that a certain councilperson is bringing a bit more ‘spirit’ to their seat than one might expect, leaving an aroma that’s more suited to a holiday cocktail party than a council meeting.
Rudolph Giuliani gets the second Weenie Award for not following the advice of his attorneys, “Know when to turn off your bleepin’ red nose Rudolph!” Regardless of which side you’re on, the fact the Abominable Snowman saw him and crushed him with a $148M ice block is staggering. While we eagerly await the appeal, one thing’s for sure, let’s sing it all together now…, “He’ll go down in His-to-ry!”
As the Winter Solstice heralds the imminent change from darkness to lighter days, I present to you various whispers I’ve heard fluttering through the frosty air.
Thanks to our group of shadows in every corner whispering into my ear once again, the shenanigans in the public offices of Clifton Forge, Iron Gate, and Covington have not escaped my ear. Rest assured, The Shadow does his homework, and when it does come to light, well…pull out your popcorn and settle in.
What’s to be thought about Governor Youngkin’s move to end “the most hated tax in Virginia,” the car tax?While that change might just put a few more jingles back in Virginians’ pockets, I’m curious, if the right pocket now has more money, what new tax will the left pocket create to make up the deficit? Perhaps something novel like reducing government spending?
Reader Meg J. asked what was going on over at the old Peebles building, errr, Leggetts, Belks, Gordmans… Talk about a rabbit hole that is bigger than an elephant’s backside. I believe the only anecdote close to summing up the whispered words swirling around town like an early snowstorm comes from the fabulous Dolly Parton: nobody knows whether they’re “scratching their watch or winding their butts” over there. Regardless of the messy construction and direction chaos, it’s wonderful to see the Covington Olde Town Revitalization Plan project coming to life. And you have to marvel at the beautiful storefront windows designed by Master Decorator Shannon Hogan. I feel like I’m peering into a high-end store on Union Square in downtown San Francisco. Cheers and tip of the hat to those good folks for making something happen.
A tip of the hat to Jacob Wright over at the AHPS School Board who stands resolute amidst the tempest of calls for his resignation and the Herculean task of merging our schools; such challenges are not for the faint of heart. He’s acknowledged his imperfections with an apology, a gesture we all can understand, for who among us is without flaws? Kudos to the community for pointing out their desires and demands. The point here is, we’re all in this together and have to solve it collectively. Bullying and hate-filled hearts have no place in our community.
On a lighter note, the grandeur of reader Milton M.’s 20-foot-tall Christmas Yard ornaments on Falcon Ridge Road has caught my eye – and the imagination – of many passersby. It’s a festive reminder that “Aged Adolescence” is still alive and well. I highly recommend taking a short drive. It’ll light up your spirit. Keep it going, Milton.
This week’s Community Heroes award goes to William “Bill” T. Wilson and the Jackson River Preservation Association (JRPA). Leading the charge to protect the cherished Jackson River, Wilson and the JRPA confront challenges like pollution and riverbank erosion. Their unwavering commitment exemplifies community spirit and dedication to environmental stewardship, preserving the river’s beauty and health for generations to come. If you see them out and about town, tip your hat to our noble heroes!
With 2024 on the horizon, the pen is poised, and the stories await. The truth is a journey, and we travel it together. Here’s to the stories that will unfold in the year to come. Until next time, keep the whispers coming, and let the light in.
—————————————
“The Shadow” column is a tapestry of community narrative, blending fact with local lore; the views expressed herein seek to entertain in the spirit of the Highlands, not to serve as an immutable record of events. Readers are encouraged to approach each tale with the understanding that, while the essence seeks truth, the details may dance in the penumbra of allegory and anecdote.
