Front Royal Chamber: Leadership, Learning, and Local Spirit
Release Date: 09/03/2025
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...
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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...
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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_outlineWhen adversity strikes, it’s often the strength of a community that carries us through. In this episode of “The Valley Today,” host Janet Michael welcomed Niki Foster, President of the Front Royal Warren County Chamber of Commerce, for a conversation that was as much about overcoming personal challenges as it was about the vibrant life of a small town.
Niki opened up about her recent health struggles, candidly sharing how a hospital stay and a bumpy road to recovery didn’t stop her from fulfilling her duties. With humor and humility, she recounted working from her hospital bed, much to the chagrin of her nurses, and credited her ability to keep going to the unwavering support of her Chamber team, volunteers, and the broader community. “Nothing gets done by one person,” Niki emphasized, highlighting the collaborative spirit that defines Front Royal.
The conversation quickly turned to the Chamber’s upcoming events, starting with the highly anticipated Candidates Forum. Niki and Janet discussed the importance of providing a nonpartisan, educational platform for local political candidates, ensuring that community members have the opportunity to hear directly from those seeking office. The forum, held at a new venue this year, is designed to foster civil discourse and informed decision-making, with strict guidelines to keep the focus on issues rather than personal attacks.
Education and engagement are recurring themes throughout the episode. The pair highlighted the Chamber’s “Coffee and Conversation” series, which brings together residents and regional leaders for informal yet impactful discussions. This month’s guest, Brandon Davis from the Northern Shenandoah Valley Regional Commission, promises to shed light on the often unseen but vital work of the commission in shaping the region’s future.
Networking and leadership development also take center stage, with Niki announcing the relaunch of the Chamber’s LeadShare group and the opening of applications for the Community Leadership Program. Both initiatives aim to strengthen professional connections and deepen participants’ understanding of the local landscape, fostering a new generation of engaged citizens and business leaders.
As the conversation moved toward the end of the year, Niki and Janet previewed the Chamber’s annual dinner and awards—an 85th-anniversary celebration that promises to blend tradition with fun, and the ever-expanding Christmas on Main event, which has become a beloved holiday staple. From vendor markets to festive parades, these gatherings exemplify the Chamber’s commitment to bringing people together and celebrating the unique character of Front Royal.
Throughout the conversation, Niki and Janet’s rapport is warm and genuine, reflecting the close-knit nature of the community they serve. Their discussion is a testament to the power of resilience, the value of civic engagement, and the joy of coming together—no matter the challenges that arise. For listeners, it’s a reminder that in Front Royal, making it work isn’t just a mantra; it’s a way of life.