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Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park

Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park
Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park

MIDDLETOWN, Va. — Located in Virginia’s scenic Shenandoah Valley, the Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park preserves a landscape rich in both agricultural heritage and Civil War history. The site encompasses the historic Belle Grove Plantation, a grand 18th-century manor built in 1797, as well as the fields of the pivotal Battle of Cedar Creek, fought on October 19, 1864, where Union forces secured a decisive victory that helped solidify control of the Valley. Visitors can explore the beautifully restored plantation house, walk the battlefield trails, and learn about the lives of the diverse people who lived and worked on the land, making the park a powerful place to reflect on the region’s cultural and historical legacy.

📸: absolonkent.net/photogallery/index.php?/category/6

 

New Market, Virginia

New Market, Virginia

NEW MARKET, Va. — This charming Shenandoah Valley town is best known for its role in the American Civil War. Founded in the late 18th century, New Market was the site of the Battle of New Market on May 15, 1864, where Confederate forces—including cadets from the Virginia Military Institute—secured a notable victory against Union troops in one of the war’s most unique engagements. Today, the town preserves this rich heritage through well-maintained historic buildings, the New Market Battlefield State Historical Park, and the Hall of Valor Museum, offering visitors a vivid glimpse into 19th-century life and the enduring legacy of the conflict that shaped the nation.

📸: absolonkent.net/photogallery/index.php?/category/665

 

Welcome to Harrisonburg

Welcome to Harrisonburg
Welcome to Harrisonburg
Welcome to Harrisonburg

HARRISONBURG, Va. — Located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Harrisonburg, Virginia, is a vibrant city known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. Home to James Madison University, the city's youthful energy and diverse community creates a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, including local shops, restaurants, and arts venues.

📸: absolonkent.net/photogallery/index.php?/category/635

 

Family Camping at Highland Retreat

Family Camping at Highland Retreat
Family Camping at Highland Retreat
Family Camping at Highland Retreat

BERGTON, Va. — The annual family camping weekend at Highland Retreat was another memorable experience filled with scenic vistas, wildlife, and outdoor adventure. This year-round Christian retreat center, nestled in the mountains of northwestern Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, is also home to the memorial maple tree grove planted in 2023 to honor the life of Malcolm Kent.

📸: absolonkent.net/photogallery/index.php?/category/626

 

Malcolm's Law

Malcolm's Law

RICHMOND, Va. — On Friday, March 21, 2025, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin signed 185 pieces of legislation into law, including HB2742, now known as Malcolm’s Law. This measure mandates that hospitals with emergency rooms in Virginia conduct fentanyl screenings during urine drug screenings. I am immensely proud of my wife, Thurraya Kent, who played a pivotal role in advancing this initiative, which Delegate Irene Shin introduced.

My sincere hope is that with enhanced screening capabilities, fewer lives will be lost—lives like that of our son, Malcolm.