Remembering Dennis Burnett 1964-2014

[Editor's Note: When I left Augusta County almost two weeks ago to spend time with family in Florida, Dennis Burnett was working at his job bringing jobs to the Valley. When I returned last night, he had passed away and been buried. How quickly life can change in the span of a week. I wrote this while in Florida, reflecting about this friend to so many. See also Augusta County’s Dennis Burnett passes away and Memorial Service today for Dennis Burnett.]

“I like your pictures of the county!”

Dennis Burnett was across the room heading my way after a board of supervisors meeting at the Augusta County Government Center, trademark reading-glasses-on-top-of-head, with that wide Dennis grin.... (Continue reading here)

Augusta County's Dennis Burnett passes away

Dennis Burnett, the sunny, all-smiles, friendly and outgoing executive director of the Shenandoah Valley Partnership, a position he took over on September 1, 2013, and former Economic Director for Augusta County, Virginia, has passed away from.... (Continue reading here)

Faces at Wednesday's Augusta County Board of Supervisors meeting

 Newly sworn-in South River Supervisor Carolyn Bragg and Augusta Clerk of Court John B. Davis at the Augusta County board of supervisors meeting on March 12, 2014. (See post about Carolyn Bragg's appointment here.)

 Frank Deckert (left) and Supervisor David Karaffa (Beverley Manor District). Frank and I serve together on the Augusta County Library Board where he serves as vice chairman.

 David Karaffa and Dennis Burnett (Shenandoah Valley Partnership).

 David, Dennis, and Supervisor Larry Wills (Middle River District).

The board discussed the school board's proposed closing of Verona Elementary School.

Library Board vice chairman Frank Deckert gave the annual report.

Library Director Diantha McCauley (to the right of Frank).

Dennis Burnett talking about jobs and economic development, something I could listen to all day long. What a dream job ... promoting the Shenandoah Valley.

 The formerly all-male board now has a lady representative. Supervisor Bragg was appointed to an interim position until November in the seat left open with the death in February of David Beyeler.

Links to the meeting:
- Political reporter Bob Stuart: Draft businesswoman selected as interim supervisor
- Political reporter Bob Stuart: Shenandoah Valley Partnership head offers report
- Reporter Calvin Trice: Live blogging Augusta supervisor meeting

Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell
March 12, 2014