Community Health: Heat Stroke 101
The Valley Today
In this community health episode, host Janet Michael dives into the pressing issue of heat stroke, featuring expert insights from , who practices internal medicine at . With heat waves becoming increasingly common, understanding how to prevent, recognize, and respond to heat stroke is more critical than ever. Dr. Byrd explains that heat stroke is a severe medical condition characterized by an elevated core body temperature and central nervous system dysfunction, which could manifest as confusion, delirium, or seizures. This condition is a true medical emergency with a high mortality rate. The...
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Sustainable Business: The Journey of Winchester Co-op Market
The Valley Today
In the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, the Winchester Co-op Market is gearing up to revolutionize how the local community engages with sustainable food sources. In this episode of The Valley "Business" Today, hosted by Janet Michael, this informative and engaging session brought together key figures such as Carl Knoblock, Virginia District Director of the (SBA); Michael Daryabeygi, Andrea Cosans, and Michael Trainor, board members for the co-op. The core concept of the co-op is simple yet impactful—create a grocery store owned by the community, for the community. Board member Daryabeygi...
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From Loss to Legacy: How Katie's Comfort House is Changing End-of-Life Care
The Valley Today
In the heart of the Valley, a community is rallying together to build a sanctuary where families can say their goodbyes in a peaceful, home-like setting. is a tribute to Katie Teets, a vibrant neurotrauma intensive care nurse whose life was tragically cut short by breast cancer at the age of 26. Her family's mission is to create a place that bridges the gap between hospital care and the comfort of home, allowing families to be with their loved ones in their final days. In this episode of , host Janet Michael welcomes Julie Teets, Katie's mother, and Brandon Teets, Katie's brother. Also...
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After the Bill: What’s Next for Medicaid in the Shenandah Valley
The Valley Today
In a recent candid conversation on 'The Valley Today,' host Janet Michael sat down with , Chief Administrative Officer for , to dissect the aftermath of recently passed legislation that could drastically alter healthcare dynamics in the community. The dialogue spanned a gamut of pressing concerns, from potential Medicaid and SNAP benefit cuts to the broader implications for the community's general well-being. To set the stage, Janet recapped the initial context of their prior discussion, which took place before the legislation had passed. Chris, anticipating widespread effects, emphasized...
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Advocacy in Action: United Way's Powerful Role in Virginia
The Valley Today
The Valley Today was abuzz with meaningful discourse as Janet Michael, host of the popular show, invited two significant figures in the United Way network to discuss their mission of community upliftment and collaboration. The guests, Andy Gail, CEO of United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley, and Angela DeBoskey, Executive Director for , shared valuable insights into the collective efforts of United Way organizations at local, state, and worldwide levels. Angela offered a detailed explanation of the hierarchical structure of United Way, ranging from local operations to a worldwide network....
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Connecting Campus and Community: Laurel Ridge SBDC
The Valley Today
In today’s episode of The Valley Today, we delve into the collaborative and supportive efforts of , focusing on their Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Host Janet Michael engaged in an informative conversation with Brandy Hawkins Boies, the Director of Public Relations and Special Events at the college, and Andy Gyurisin, the Director of . Brandy highlighted the vibrant community atmosphere at Laurel Ridge and how the college isn’t just a place for students but a crucial support system for small businesses within the community. Andy elaborated on the extensive history and...
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Hunger in Winchester: The Impact of SNAP Cuts
The Valley Today
In the heart of Old Town Winchester, at the bustling Espresso Bar, a deeply insightful conversation unfolded between Janet Michael, host of The Valley Today, and Andrea Cosans, Executive Director of Winchester CCAP. The topic, while sobering, is crucial: the recent cuts to SNAP benefits and their far-reaching impacts on the community. "I'm here about once or twice a week," Andrea began, referring to the frequency of her visits to the popular café. Janet echoed this sentiment, acknowledging their shared space for meetings and cooling off, and this casual start quickly transitioned into a...
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Shenandoah Valley Music Festival’s 2025 Summer Season
The Valley Today
The Shenandoah Valley Music Festival (SVMF) has been a staple of summer entertainment in the Valley for over six decades, and this year is no different. Janet Michael, host of ‘The Valley Today,’ sat down with Dennis Lynch, SVMF's Executive Director, to discuss the exciting lineup and community impact of the festival. The conversation, filled with insights and anecdotes, sheds light on what attendees can expect from this season's performances. Recording from the corporate headquarters in Woodstock, Janet and Dennis kicked off their discussion by highlighting the festival's rich history and...
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VDOT Road Report: Bridge Repairs & I-81 Widening at Strasburg
The Valley Today
In this latest edition of 'The Valley Today,' host Janet Michael engages in a comprehensive discussion with Ken Slack, a communication specialist for the of . The conversation revolves around various crucial road improvement projects and provides insights into the progress and challenges faced by VDOT. Highlighting bridge maintenance and replacements, Ken explained the ongoing work on the 66 overpass in Front Royal, slated for completion by the end of July. Ken detailed the comprehensive repainting process of the I-66 bridges over Route 345 22, emphasizing its importance in maintaining the...
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Public Safety Thursday: Blood Drives & Fireworks Regulations
The Valley Today
In this episode of Public Safety Thursday live in the studio for The Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomes Captain Warren Gosnell from the to talk about safety, community events, and even some light-hearted personal anecdotes. Captain Gosnell gives details for an important public event – the Battle of the Badges blood drive. Scheduled for Friday, July 11, at the Frederick County Public Safety Building, this annual event pits law enforcement against firefighters in a friendly competition to see who can donate the most blood. Captain Gosnell emphasizes the importance of blood donations...
info_outlineIn the latest edition of 'The Valley Today,' host Janet Michael sat down with Andy Gail, CEO of United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley, and Holly Roberts, founder of Love To Nic, to discuss their impactful and collaborative efforts to support the homeless and needy communities in Northern Shenandoah Valley and beyond.
Holly shared that Love To Nic was founded in memory of her late son, Nic, who struggled with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder before dying in a car accident a decade ago. The nonprofit primarily focuses on providing shoes but has since expanded to include winter jackets, boots, and other essential items like non-slip shoes and steel-toed boots to help the homeless secure jobs. Holly's heartfelt story included her travels to NFL stadiums. During these trips, the organization hands out numerous pairs of shoes, socks, hats, and gloves to the homeless.
Janet remarked on how powerful and touching Holly's mission is, particularly the ripple effect that one act of kindness can provoke. Holly recounted a poignant story about a recipient who reached out to his mother after receiving shoes, which led to a cascade of donations from various states.
The discussion then shifted to the collaborative aspect of their work. Andy explained how United Way emphasizes collaboration among nonprofits through their impact grants, requiring partnerships among applicants to address community needs more holistically. He noted that they had received over $800,000 in requests from 50 nonprofits.
In a surprise announcement, Andy revealed that United Way had received an additional grant to support basic needs in rural counties. Holly was overjoyed to learn that Love To Nic would be receiving $5,000 from this fund to continue their important work in providing shoes and meals to the needy.
Holly also discussed the logistics of her operations, highlighting partnerships with companies like Bombas for socks and various brands for affordable footwear. Despite the challenges, Holly's determination and her support network have allowed Love To Nic to make a significant impact.
Andy talked about how United Way leverages community connections and data to secure funding and support for various initiatives. He emphasized that their success is a community effort, showcasing how collaborative efforts can drive meaningful change.
The discussion ended on a high note with Holly thanking United Way and the community for their support, while Andy promised continued backing for her vital work. Janet encouraged listeners to engage and support such initiatives.
Learn more about Love to Nic: https://lovetonic.org/
Learn more about United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley: https://www.unitedwaynsv.org/