Clem's Kitchen Opens at Wayside Inn
The Valley Today
In the heart of Middletown, Virginia, a beloved historic landmark is experiencing a renaissance. The Wayside Inn, a fixture of the Shenandoah Valley for over two centuries, is now home to —a new restaurant venture by Bill and Amanda Whitson. In this episode of “The Valley Business Today,” host Janet Michael, joined by Carl Knoblock of the , sat down with the Whitsons to discuss their journey, vision, and the challenges of breathing new life into a storied space. From Food Truck AND Brick-and-Mortar Many locals know Bill from and Amanda from . But together, they are embarking on a new...
info_outline
More Than a Gallery: The Unique Experience of Art at the Mill
The Valley Today
In the scenic Shenandoah Valley, Millwood, Virginia, is a town where history and creativity intertwine, and nowhere is this more evident than in the annual show. In this episode of “Tourism Tuesday” on , host Janet Michael welcomed Nathan Stalvey, Executive Director of the , for an in-depth conversation about the upcoming fall art show and the vibrant cultural life of the region. Now in its 20th year, Art at the Mill has become a cornerstone event for the community, drawing artists and visitors from across the East Coast. Nathan, a seasoned organizer, shared the behind-the-scenes efforts...
info_outline
Shining a Light: The Community Choir of Page County
The Valley Today
In this episode of “,” host Janet Michael brought listeners a heartwarming and insightful conversation that showcased the vibrant spirit of Page County’s community life. Joined by Gina Hilliard, president of the , and Denise Schulz, director of the , the conversation offered a behind-the-scenes look at how music, tradition, and togetherness continue to thrive in this picturesque corner of Virginia. The conversation opened with lighthearted banter about post-vacation catch-up and the joys of unplugging, but quickly turned to the main event: the Community Choir of Page County. For many,...
info_outline
The Power of Giving Back: Inside Community Connect & Serve 2025
The Valley Today
In a world where community needs are ever-growing and resources often stretched thin, the annual event in Winchester, Virginia, stands as a beacon of hope and collaboration. In this episode of “,” host Janet Michael gathered with a dynamic group of organizers and participants to pull back the curtain on this unique event, revealing how it’s reshaping the way nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and everyday citizens come together to serve. The conversation, recorded in the midst of a committee meeting at , was lively and candid. Janet was joined by Andrea Cosans and Lily Paccadolmis...
info_outline
Laurel Ridge Community College: Pathways for Every Journey
The Valley Today
In this episode of “,” host Janet Michael welcomed Brandy Hawkins Boies, Director of Public Relations and Special Events, and Dr. Kim Blosser, President of , for a candid and wide-ranging discussion about the college’s evolving role in the Shenandoah Valley. The conversation offered listeners a rare glimpse behind the scenes of an institution that has become a cornerstone for education, workforce development, and community growth in the region. Dr. Blosser, only the fifth president in the college’s history and the third woman to hold the position, shared her deep-rooted connection to...
info_outline
Fostering Hope: How Volunteers Change Lives at Virginia German Shepherd Rescue
The Valley Today
On a sunny afternoon in downtown Winchester, the secret garden at the Espresso Bar buzzes with the warmth of old friends reuniting. Host of , Janet Michael welcomes Sandy Schwalb, a dedicated volunteer and former board member of (VGSR), for a heartfelt conversation about the organization’s mission, the power of community, and the life-changing impact of rescue dogs. Sandy’s journey with VGSR began years ago, transforming her from a self-described “non-dog person” into a passionate advocate for German Shepherds and animal rescue. Alongside her husband Steve, Sandy has fostered and...
info_outline
A Smorgasbord of Talent: The Barns of Rose Hill
The Valley Today
Nestled in the heart of Berryville, the stands as a beacon for arts, culture, and community connection. In this episode of “Tourism Tuesday,” host Janet Michael talks with Martha Reynolds, the Executive Director of the Barns, to discuss the organization’s bustling calendar and the vital role it plays in the region. The conversation opened with excitement for the upcoming , a beloved annual event that showcases the creativity and diversity of local artists. This year’s theme, “Rooted,” promises both literal and metaphorical interpretations, with works spanning woodworking,...
info_outline
Bridging Progress: Inside VDOT’s Roadwork
The Valley Today
In this episode of “,” host Janet Michael sat down with Ken Slack, Communications Specialist for the of the , to pull back the curtain on the region’s most pressing road projects and the intricate web of planning, funding, and public engagement that makes them possible. The conversation opened with a celebration: the long-awaited , now featuring a new bridge over the Norfolk Southern railway. For years, drivers endured lengthy delays as trains blocked the at-grade crossing, sometimes for up to 20 minutes. Ken explained how federal funding—specifically from a maritime economic...
info_outline
United Way NSV: Day of Caring 2025
The Valley Today
Every September, a wave of orange (this year) shirts sweep across the Northern Shenandoah Valley, signaling a day when the community comes together for a singular purpose: to give back. This is Day of Caring, an annual event organized by the , and it’s more than just a day of volunteerism—it’s a celebration of community spirit, corporate partnership, and the power of collective action. In this episode of “,” host Janet Michael sat down with Andy Gail, CEO of United Way NSV, and Beth Falu, Assistant Vice President of Fraud Operations at and chair of Day of Caring, to discuss the...
info_outline
Public Safety Thursday: School Buses, Speed Demons, and Social Media
The Valley Today
On this episode of "," host Janet Michael welcomed Captain Warren Gosnell of the for a lively and insightful discussion that went far beyond the usual public safety bulletin. The conversation began with a heartfelt congratulations to Captain Gosnell , setting the tone for a candid exploration of what recognition means in the world of law enforcement. Goz reflected on his journey from a self-described average student and band member to a leader in public safety, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and the often-overlooked support systems behind every accolade. The heart of the episode...
info_outlineIn the heart of Old Town Winchester, the RISE (Resources. Inclusion. Support. Empowerment.) Community Center stands as a testament to the power of community, compassion, and resilience. Home to AIDS Response Effort (ARE), the organization has evolved over the past 35 years from a small group of volunteers supporting those affected by HIV/AIDS into a vibrant hub for HIV services, LGBTQ+ support, and community empowerment. In this conversation on The Valley Today with host Janet Michael, executive director Katie Vance shared the journey of the center’s transformation, the challenges faced, and the profound impact it continues to have on the lives of local residents.
The RISE Community Center’s mission is multifaceted: it provides free and confidential HIV, STI, and Hepatitis C testing, case management, and a range of harm reduction services. Katie emphasized the importance of accessible testing, noting a recent uptick in positive cases since the pandemic and the center’s ability to connect individuals to life-saving medications and support. “People can live long, healthy lives with the right resources,” she explained, dispelling persistent myths and highlighting the advances in HIV treatment.
But the RISE Community Center is more than a healthcare provider—it’s a safe haven and a gathering place. The center hosts a variety of support and affinity groups, from LGBTQ+ youth and seniors to hobby-based meetups like Stitch and Bitch. Its library, housed in a former bank vault, offers hundreds of books and resources for parents and individuals seeking understanding and affirmation. The center’s gender-affirming closet, community garden, and volunteer-run programs further illustrate its commitment to holistic care.
Katie and Janet discussed the ongoing need for volunteers and community advocacy, especially in the face of dwindling funding and persistent stigma. The center relies on donations and the dedication of its volunteers to keep its doors open and its programs running. Katie called on the community to not only support financially but also to challenge harmful language and myths, and to show up for LGBTQ+ neighbors.
The conversation closed with a sobering reflection: without ARE and the RISE Community Center, many in Winchester would lose access to critical health services, support networks, and a sense of belonging. As Katie put it, “It’s a human rights issue, not a political one.” The RISE Comunity Center’s story is a powerful reminder that when a community comes together to care for its most vulnerable, everyone benefits—and hope truly rises.