The Valley Today

In this episode of The Valley Today, hosted by Janet Michael features Justin Kerns from the Winchester Frederick County Convention and Visitors Bureau for an engaging community and tourist conversation.  The episode focused on the recent tourism summit held on March 19. Justin was thrilled about the event's outcome, noting the impressive turnout of around 60 attendees, far exceeding his expectatio...

In the latest edition of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael shines a light on Old Town Winchester with an enthusiastic and insightful conversation with two prominent community members, Brady Cloven, Executive Director of Friends of Old Town, and Megan Cammer, General Manager of Moon Phased. Janet opens the show by introducing Megan, who, alongside her mother, expertly transformed an old bookstor...

In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael dives into the engaging and enriching world of 4-H in Warren County. Joining Janet is Emily Schultz, the Associate Extension Agent for Warren County, who's been a pivotal figure in the 4-H community for the past year. Reflecting on her first year, Emily shared the whirlwind of activities and opportunities that have kept her busy. The last yea...

As part of a Community Health series on The Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomes Dr. Sophia Villanueva, a fellowship-trained colorectal surgeon with Valley Health Surgical Oncology in Winchester. The discussion highlights March as Colon Cancer Awareness Month and covers key topics such as the rise in early-onset colon cancer, the importance of screenings, and preventive measures. To begin, Dr...

In the picturesque town of Mount Jackson, Virginia , a revolutionary initiative is buzzing with success, breathing new life into the local economy and community spirit. Under the stewardship of Town Manager Olivia Hilton and her dedicated team, the Mount Jackson Five program has turned entrepreneurial dreams into reality. On today's episode of The Valley Business Today with the SBA, host Janet Mic...

In a recent episode of Valley Today, host Janet Michael transported her listeners to the cultural heart of Berryville, Clark County, through an engaging conversation with Martha Reynolds, the Executive Director of the Barns of Rose Hill . Bridging past and present, Reynolds painted a vivid picture of the barn's dynamic offerings, from art exhibitions and concert series to educational programs. The...

In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael chats with Gina Hilliard, President of the Luray/Page Chamber of Commerce , and Jen Jenkins, Parks Superintendent for Luray Parks and Rec , about the plethora of exciting events lined up for the community this year . Kicking things off, Gina and Janet discuss the chamber's rebranding efforts, which include a vibrant new logo, updated core val...

In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael catches up with Winchester Rotarian Tootie Rinker to learn about their upcoming fundraiser for NW Works. Tootie, who chairs the International Affair of Food and Wine Event, shared detailed insights about this significant event happening on Thursday, March 27th, from 6:00 PM until 9:00 PM at Fox Meadow Barn. The International Affair of Food an...

Laurel Ridge Community College is making waves with its comprehensive and in-demand healthcare programs. In a recent discussion hosted by Janet Michael on The Valley Today, attendees had the chance to hear from key members of the college faculty about the various career opportunities available through their health professions courses. Guy Curtis , the Director of Marketing at Laurel Ridge, opened...

In the bustling corridors of Dowell J. Howard , a transformative change is taking place in the realm of Career and Technical Education (CTE). On a recent visit, Valley Today host Janet Michael sat down with Principal Ben Thompson to explore the dynamic programs and opportunities that have elevated the school to new heights within the Frederick County Public School system. Taking place amidst the h...

In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael visits Jim Barnett Park to discuss the exciting events and programs offered by Winchester City Parks with Parks Director, Chris Konyar.  Chris shared that spring has arrived, and with it, a flurry of activities at the park. The turf field, described as the crown jewel, is particularly striking against the backdrop of a transitioning season. O...

In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomed the key figures from Opportunity Scholars, a promising non-profit organization dedicated to connecting individuals to jobs and education in the Shenandoah Valley. Joining her were Rachel Schaefer, CEO of Opportunity Scholars, Caroline Brown, Director of Development and Growth, and Shonda Avis, HR Manager for Holtzman Oil and Propane...

The Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum has proven to be a beacon of learning and community engagement in the Valley. In this episode of The Valley Today, Janet Michael sat down with Executive Director Dawn Devine and Director of Development and Marketing Tammy Stevenson to discuss the museum's extensive programs and upcoming events. As the Executive Director, Dawn provided a heartfelt overview of...

In this episode of The Valley Today - Public Safety Thursday - host Janet Michael sat down with Captain Warren Gosnell of the Frederick County Sheriff's Office to discuss public safety, impaired driving, and the multifaceted responsibilities of local law enforcement. The pre-recorded session offered listeners a unique glimpse into both the operational and emotional aspects of law enforcement. Capt...

This episode of The Valley Today with host Janet Michael and cohost Niki Foster, President of the Front Royal-Warren County Chamber of Commerce, provided a wealth of information about the Chamber's various committees, upcoming events, and the overall community spirit that drives these initiatives. Janet and Niki delved into the significant impact of the Chamber's Nonprofit Alliance and Senior Alli...

In this episode of The Valley Today - Tourism Tuesday Shenandoah County edition - host Janet Michael is joined by Kary Haun from Shenandoah County Tourism and her guest, Liz Lipovsky, the owner of Hogback Mountain Pony Rides . Liz shares her background, explaining that she started the business nine years ago in Leesburg, Virginia, driven by her lifelong passion for horses and rescuing ponies. Hogb...

Grief is a universal experience, impacting individuals regardless of age, and its effects on mental health can be profound. In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael delves into this sensitive topic with Susana Calley, a licensed clinical social worker and the director at the Center for Hope and Healing under the Blue Ridge Hospice umbrella. Throughout the year-long series, Mental He...

In the latest episode of The Valley Today hosted by Janet Michael, spotlighted the unique and community-focused Hideaway Cafe, alongside a conversation with Brady Cloven, Executive Director for Friends of Old Town.  Janet welcomes Victoria Kidd Armstrong, owner of the Hideaway Cafe. Victoria's business is celebrated not just for its coffee and tea but for its role as an unofficial community center...

Janet Michael welcomes listeners to another episode of The Valley Today, featuring Christa Shifflett and Celeste Brooks from the Warren Coalition . They discuss the upcoming Warren County Unplugged event, which encourages the community to put away their phones and engage in various activities to improve mental health and social well-being. Christa, the Executive Director, and Celeste, the Communit...

The Valley Today recently hosted a lively discussion about the upcoming Top of Virginia Regional Chamber 's Top of the Tee Charity Golf Classic , marking the return of this beloved event after a hiatus. Host Janet Michael welcomed Kaleigh Fincham, the Chamber's Director of Events, and Guy Curtis, founder of G3 Golf Tournaments , to discuss the details and goals of this year's tournament. Taking pl...

In the heart of Winchester's Old Town Walking Mall lies a hidden gem that exudes Celtic charm—Faire Isles Trading Company. In this episode of The Valley Today, hosted by Janet Michael, the store's unique story and offerings were brought to life. Joining Janet was Justin Kerns of the Winchester/Frederick County Convention and Visitors Bureau , along with Stephanie Shahan, the passionate owner of Fa...

In the this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael is joined by Shenandoah County Planner Tyler Hinkle to discuss  Shenandoah 2045 , the county's comprehensive planning process which has now moved into the implementation phase. Today's topic focused on Shenandoah County's growth and educational advancements with guest Dr. Melody Sheppard, the county's school superintendent. Dr. Sheppard s...

In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael talks with Elizabeth Baldwin , a unit coordinator and extension agent specializing in agricultural and natural resources, to delve into the topic of bird flu, also known as Avian Influenza. Baldwin, who is based in Page County , primarily focuses on animal science, working with farmers, livestock operations, and even homeowners with backyard...

As part of a community health partnership with Valley Health , in this episode of the Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomes Mike Wade, chair of the organizing committee, to share details about this year's Community Wellness Festival, held at the Apple Blossom Mall in partnership with Shenandoah University on Saturday, February 22 from 10am - 5pm. The event promises a day filled with health, fi...

In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomes back cohost Carl Knoblock, the Virginia District Director for the  Small Business Administration (SBA), for a conversation about the importance of preparedness and adaptability in business. Between humorous and honest exchanges, Janet and Carl delve into how businesses manage amidst uncertainties and disruptions, with a specific look...