The Valley Today

In this episode of Valley Today, host Janet Michael brings a mix of community insights and local initiatives. Joining her on the show are Niki Foster from the Front Royal Warren County Chamber of Commerce and her guests Aaron and Harmony Hike from the Hike Kids Foundation. Harmony and Aaron share their inspiring journey with the Hike Kids Foundation, which aims to empower children by providing ess...

In this episode of Tourism Tuesday - Shenandoah County edition - Valley Today host Janet Michael visits Cakes by Ashton in Strasburg, Virginia. Joined by co-host Kary Haun from Shenandoah County Tourism , the duo sits down to talk with Ashton Simmers, the passionate owner and baker behind Cakes by Ashton. The bakery, known for its pink interior and cute decorations, offers a fully vegan and nut-fr...

In a recent episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael reconnected with Kelly Botta, a board-certified Physician Assistant and President of Smartypants Medicine. Since their last interaction in October 2022, Smartypants Medicine has undergone significant growth and transformation. The practice, known for its unique Direct Primary Care model, offers a more affordable, convenient, and patient-f...

Nestled in the charming town of Strasburg is Clementine's Vintage , a gem admired by both locals and visitors alike. Valley Today host, Janet Michael recently had the pleasure of sitting down with the store's owner, Sue Haynes, for an engaging conversation about the store's journey, unique offerings, and dedication to supporting small businesses. Clementine Vintage is Sue's 'happy place,' and she...

GardenFest 2025 is just around the corner, scheduled for the first Saturday in June at Belle Grove . In this episode of The Valley Today hosted by Janet Michael, the event was the topic of discussion with guests Kathy Doyle and Joanne Royaltey, both Master Gardeners and key organizers of the event. Joanne, an associate extension agent with Frederick County , and Kathy Doyle, one of the event's pro...

In this episode, we take an in-depth look at the Community Leadership Program (CLP) organized by the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber . This program is a testament to the power of community engagement and leadership development. Hosted by Janet Michael, this segment of the Valley Today brings to light the experiences of the current CLP class, soon to be graduates, and the invaluable lessons they'v...

In the heart of Winchester, Virginia, lies a hidden gem— Uncle Beehive's Ice Cream . Established by Ben Rothermel and Katie Sartelle, this artisanal ice cream company brings joy and unique flavors to the local community. Recently, host of The Valley Today, Janet Michael and Justin Kerns from Winchester Frederick County Convention and Visitors Bureau sat down with the duo to uncover their delightfu...

Our monthly conversation on The Valley Today with Brady Cloven, Executive Director for Friends of Old Town highlighted a visit to Panhandle Apothecary, where host, Janet Michael and Brady sat down for an insightful conversation with Sarah, the operations manager and co-owner of the store. Panhandle Apothecary, situated on the old town walking mall, is more than just a shop—it's a sanctuary of holi...

In the heart of the Valley, the Frederick County Homesteaders Farm Crawl is back, scheduled for June 14th. In a recent episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael, showcases the event which promises to bring together farmers and the local community in a day filled with fun, learning, and delicious fresh produce. Janet welcomed several guests including Sam Armel, Jaclyn Mommen, Megan Craggs, an...

In today's business landscape, customer service is pivotal for small businesses striving for success. In a recent conversation on the Valley Business Today, Janet Michael, the host, alongside Carl Knoblock, the Virginia District Director for the Small Business Administration (SBA), delved into the nuances of outstanding customer service and its impacts. Janet opened the discussion by sharing a per...

In a recent episode of Valley Today, host Janet Michael engaged in a compelling discussion with Michael Diaz, Chairman of the Northern Shenandoah Valley Community Veterans Engagement Board (CVEB). The conversation aimed to shed light on the essential services and support that the CVEB provides to veterans in the local community. Diaz, donning many hats, passionately explained the board's mission a...

In a recent episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomed Gina Hilliard, President of the Luray/Page Chamber of Commerce , and special guest Crystel Smith, founder and CEO of Crystal Clear Business Strategies . As they gathered virtually on a particularly rainy Tuesday, the conversation flowed seamlessly, touching on key insights for business owners and unveiling exciting new initiative...

In a heartfelt session of 'The Valley Today,' host Janet Michael shared an inspiring conversation with Dan Abel, a member of the Rotary Club of Winchester. The discussion centered around the Healing Field of Honor, an annual event presented this year by Navy Federal Credit Union, which honors heroes with a majestic display of American flags at Handley High School every Memorial Day weekend. Janet...

In this episode of 'The Valley Today', host Janet Michael welcomes Diane Ricci, a licensed clinical social worker and program director for Valley Health's Outpatient Behavioral Health Services . The conversation revolves around the breadth of mental health services provided by Valley Health, the stigmas surrounding mental health, and the unique needs of different age groups. May is Mental Health A...

In this episode of The Valley Today, we take a deep dive into the ongoing and upcoming projects of the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) specifically focusing on the I-81 corridor. Host Janet Michael, sat down for an extensive chat with Ken Slack, VDOT's communication specialist for the Staunton District. The pair delved into the CIP ( Corridor Improvement Program ) study for I-81, high...

Nestled in the charming embrace of Clarke County, Virginia, Lucketts is more than just a market—it's a pilgrimage for many, including Janet, who is excitedly discussing it with Suzanne. It's not just nostalgia that draws people in but a well-orchestrated symphony of vendors, buyers, and experiences. A couple of years ago, Lucketts Vintage Market was an annual event, but now, Suzanne celebrates hos...

Summer is just around the corner, and Winchester's Jim Barnett Park is gearing up for a season full of exciting events and activities. In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael sat down with Chris Konyar, the City Parks Director, to unpack what's in store for residents and visitors alike. Kicking off the discussion with a splash, Chris highlighted the aquatics programs set to keep ev...

In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael dives into the world of Shenandoah Reel Women, a remarkable initiative that offers fly fishing camps for young women aged 12 to 18. Joan Chapman, one of the directors, explains that the program aims to empower young women through hands-on outdoor experiences. Since its inception in 2021, the camps have evolved to include both novice and advan...

This Laurel Ridge Community College episode featured Brandy Hawkins Boies, the college's Director of Public Relations, and Deborah Zelleka-Yearwood , an inspiring student and commencement speaker. Brandy shared updates about the upcoming commencement ceremonies , which will be spread across two days to accommodate the large number of health profession graduates. With 795 graduates, the college is...

In a recent episode of The Valley Business Today, host Janet Michael along with cohost Niki Foster, President of the Front Royal/Warren County Chamber of Commerce had an in-depth conversation with Ellen Aders about the ongoing efforts to revitalize downtown Front Royal. The discussion, recorded at the chamber, delved into the intricacies of the Main Street Program and the significant strides made...

Nestled in the heart of Woodstock, Italian Touch offers a delectable experience that blends tradition with innovation. Janet Michael, host of The Valley Today and her cohost for Tourism Tuesday/Shenandoah County, Kary Haun recently visited this charming eatery to bring focus to its new location and expanded offerings. Italian Touch, now occupying a spacious and strategically located spot that used...

In this episode, Janet Michael, host of The Valley Today, spoke with Jenny Grooms, the Executive Director for the  foundations of Valley Health , about the innovative Stronger Together campaign. This initiative aims to enhance various aspects of healthcare in the Valley Health system, focusing on mental health, heart health, and extending care accessibility. Valley Health , a nonprofit health syst...

In a recent episode of the Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomed Andy Gail, CEO of United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley , and Amanda Whitson , co-chair of the Housing Coalition of Northern Shenandoah Valley , to discuss the upcoming Housing Summit. The summit, scheduled for May 23rd at Laurel Ridge Community College, seeks to address various housing challenges faced by the region. The convers...

Spring is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than a Bloom edition of Public Safety Thursday! Janet Michael kicked off the conversation with Captain Warren Gosnell from the Frederick County Sheriff's Office . The discussion centered around the Apple Blossom Festival, a beloved local tradition. Goz shared his thoughts on the month-long social media initiative, where he posts daily tidbits to...

In the latest edition of 'The Valley Business Today,' host Janet Michael welcomed Shayla Rickard from the Frederick County Economic Development Authority (EDA). The conversation provided an in-depth look into two key programs— the Widget Cup and the Employer Expo — both aimed at workforce development in the Frederick County area. The Widget Cup is an annual competition where teams from various hig...