Gardening Through Change: Weather, Climate, and Creative Solutions
The Valley Today
As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp in the Northern Shenandoah Valley, gardeners are faced with both new challenges and exciting opportunities. In this episode of "," host Janet Michael talks with Joanne Royaltey, a and Master Gardener, to discuss how local gardeners can make the most of the fall season—despite unpredictable weather and shifting climate patterns. Joanne began by acknowledging the difficulties many gardeners have faced this year, from erratic spring rains and cold snaps to the intense heat and drought of summer. She emphasized that adaptability is key: “We...
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The Nest, The Fest, and The Future: Mount Jackson’s Entrepreneurial Journey
The Valley Today
In the heart of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, the is quietly staging a revolution—one that blends entrepreneurial ambition with a hearty dose of small-town quirkiness. In this episode of “,” host Janet Michael sat down with Olivia Hilton, Mount Jackson’s dynamic town manager, to discuss how a business incubator program and a potato-themed festival are transforming the local landscape. The conversation opens with Hilton, ever the multitasker, joining the call from her car before a class—a fitting metaphor for the hustle and adaptability that define both her leadership and the...
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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...
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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...
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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,...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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,...
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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_outlineIn the heart of Rappahannock County, the spirit of community theater is alive and thriving, as revealed in a recent episode of “The Valley Today” hosted by Janet Michael. The episode shines a spotlight on the upcoming production of “Always... Patsy Cline” by the RAAC Community Theater, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the passion, dedication, and camaraderie that fuel local arts.
Janet welcomes director Patty Hardee, who also serves as the artistic director for the Rappahannock Association for Arts and Community (RAAC), alongside cast members Jami Davis (Patsy Cline) and Sarah Nutt (Louise Seger). The conversation opens with a deep dive into the history and mission of RAAC, an organization that has been nurturing the arts in the region for over four decades. Patty shares how RAAC’s programming extends far beyond theater, encompassing art tours, concerts, film screenings, children’s programs, and even ephemeral art installations that celebrate creativity in all its fleeting forms.
The focus then shifts to the production itself. “Always... Patsy Cline” is more than a musical tribute; it’s a heartfelt story of friendship between the legendary singer and her devoted fan, Louise. Patty explains the unique structure of the play, which weaves together Patsy’s iconic songs with Louise’s memories, all set against the backdrop of a live band composed of talented community members, including local students. The cast discusses the challenges and joys of their roles—Jami relishes the opportunity to channel Patsy’s vocal style and stage presence, while Sarah delights in the exuberance and comedic energy of Louise, a character who allows her to “turn herself up to 100.”
The conversation also explores the realities of community theater: the intimacy of performing in a small venue, the legal hurdles of securing rights to a beloved show, and the importance of audience engagement. Both Jami and Sarah reflect on the thrill of live performance, the unpredictability of audience reactions, and the sense of connection that only comes from sharing a story in real time. Patty emphasizes the value of local support, noting that productions like this are possible thanks to the dedication of volunteers, the enthusiasm of audiences, and the generosity of the community.
As the conversation wraps up, listeners are invited to experience the magic for themselves. “Always... Patsy Cline” opens at the Little Washington Theater, promising an evening of music, laughter, and heartfelt storytelling. With ticket information and showtimes shared, the conversation serves as both an invitation and a celebration—a testament to the enduring power of the arts to bring people together, inspire creativity, and honor the legacies of those who came before.