Feeding Hope: Blue Ridge Area Food Bank's Fight Against Hunger
The Valley Today
As the last day of Week dawns, Janet Michael, host of "," welcomes listeners with a call to action: the bus is ready to collect donations for those in need. This annual event, hosted by , not only gathers food and funds but also shines a spotlight on the ongoing issue of food insecurity in the community. In a heartfelt conversation, Janet talks with Les Sinclair, Communications and PR Manager for the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, to discuss the challenges, triumphs, and the power of community support. Navigating Uncertainty: The Lingering Impact of Crisis The conversation quickly turns to the...
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Beyond the Hospital: Valley Health’s Mission to Nourish and Heal
The Valley Today
On a brisk morning in the Valley, the Bus sits parked at Royal Plaza Shopping Center, buzzing with activity. host Janet Michael welcomes listeners to a special conversation with Jason Craig, Senior Director of . Together, they broadcast live from the heart of a community initiative that’s more than just a food drive—it’s a movement to address hunger, health, and hope. Connecting Food, Health, and Community As donations pour in—bags of groceries, checks, and even children learning the value of giving—Janet and Jason dive into the complex web of factors that shape community health....
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Beyond the Backpack: Bright Futures Frederick/Winchester
The Valley Today
In a recent episode of , host Janet Michael welcomes Elise Stine Dolinar, the driving force behind Bright Futures Frederick/Winchester. Their conversation, happening against the backdrop of the annual "" week, delves into the heart of a community initiative that goes far beyond simply filling backpacks with food. Bright Futures, as Elise passionately explains, is dedicated to ensuring that every student—regardless of circumstance—has access to the essentials they need to succeed in school and in life. The Weekend Food Pack Program: Logistics and Love At the core of Bright Futures’...
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Beyond the Food Pantry: The Many Faces of Winchester CCAP
The Valley Today
As Week sweeps through Warren County, the spirit of giving is palpable. Yet, for organizations like , the need for support extends far beyond a single week. In this episode of “,” host Janet Michael sits down with Andrea Cosans, Executive Director of Winchester CCAP, to shed light on the organization’s tireless efforts to combat food insecurity and support local families. Meeting the Rising Demand From the outset, Andrea paints a vivid picture of the growing challenges facing the community. “Our reception area is not that large,” she explains, “but this morning I came in and there...
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From Crisis to Connection: How United Way NSV and 211 Are Making a Difference
The Valley Today
As the kicks off Week, host Janet Michael sets the stage for a conversation that goes beyond food drives and donation bins. This annual initiative, anchored by the ’s bus parked at Royal Plaza Shopping Center, mobilizes the community to support those facing food insecurity. However, as Janet welcomes Andy Gail, CEO of , it becomes clear that the need extends far beyond canned goods and non-perishable donations. Dialing for Help: The Power of 2-1-1 Andy wastes no time introducing listeners to the 2-1-1 resource line—a statewide service that connects Virginians to a wide array of essential...
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Turkey Talk: Avoiding Foodborne Illness This Thanksgiving
The Valley Today
As the holiday season approaches, families gather around tables filled with delicious food and festive cheer. However, amidst the laughter and celebration, food safety often takes a back seat—until someone gets sick. In this episode of “,” host Janet Michael talks with , a food, nutrition, and health extension agent, to discuss how you can keep your holiday meals both tasty and safe. Thawing the Turkey: Plan Ahead for Safety Amanda wastes no time addressing one of the most common holiday pitfalls: thawing the turkey. She urges listeners to plan ahead, explaining that the safest way to...
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Laurel Ridge Community College: Jeff Sinclair’s Path from Army to Pharmacy
The Valley Today
As the Shenandoah Valley turns golden with autumn, host Janet Michael, joins ’s Director of PR and Special Events, , and , an Army veteran whose educational journey has inspired many. Their conversation—timed perfectly for Veterans Week—offers a heartfelt look at how one man’s post-military path leads from uncertainty to academic success and a future in pharmacy. From Service to Self-Discovery After leaving the Army, Jeff Sinclair admits he needed time to decompress. “The military was all I ever thought about,” he shares. With no clear direction, he decides to enroll at...
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Planning for Tomorrow: Top of VA Regional Chamber’s Economic Summit
The Valley Today
The Shenandoah Valley is gearing up for its fourth annual , and this year’s event promises to be more impactful than ever. In this episode of “,” host Janet Michael talks with Kaleigh Fincham, Director of Events for the , and Scott Harvard, CEO of , to discuss what makes this summit a must-attend for business leaders, students, and community members alike. Bridging Local and National Perspectives From the outset, the conversation highlights the summit’s unique approach: blending high-level economic analysis with on-the-ground realities. Scott, a long-time supporter and moderator of the...
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A Shopper’s Wonderland: Kris Kringle Market at Belle Grove
The Valley Today
As the holiday season approaches, prepares to host its much-anticipated Kris Kringle Market. In a recent episode of “,” host Janet Michael talks with Kristen Laise, Executive Director, and Paige Ulevich, Festivals Coordinator, to offer listeners an exclusive look at this festive event. Their conversation reveals how the market has evolved into a cherished community tradition, blending local craftsmanship, culinary delights, and family fun. From Pandemic Brainstorm to Annual Favorite The Kris Kringle Market began as a creative response to the challenges of 2020. Kristen recalls how the...
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Celebrating the Holidays with Luray/Page Chamber
The Valley Today
As the holiday season approaches, Page County residents eagerly anticipate the 10th annual , a beloved event that has grown from a modest community open house into a vibrant celebration. In this episode of "," host Janet Michael talks with Gina Hilliard, president of the , to discuss the festival’s evolution and the many ways it brings the community together. From Humble Beginnings to a Holiday Extravaganza Initially, the festival offered little more than photos with Santa and a few cookies at the Chamber’s visitor center. However, over the past decade, it has blossomed into a large-scale...
info_outlineAs the holiday season approaches, Page County residents eagerly anticipate the 10th annual Chamber Holiday Festival, a beloved event that has grown from a modest community open house into a vibrant celebration. In this episode of "The Valley Today," host Janet Michael talks with Gina Hilliard, president of the Luray-Page Chamber of Commerce, to discuss the festival’s evolution and the many ways it brings the community together.
From Humble Beginnings to a Holiday Extravaganza
Initially, the festival offered little more than photos with Santa and a few cookies at the Chamber’s visitor center. However, over the past decade, it has blossomed into a large-scale event that now features a wide array of activities. Gina enthusiastically describes how families return year after year, making the festival a cherished part of their holiday traditions. The event, held at the historic train station in Luray, now includes themed photo booths—this year’s “Polar Express” train motif promises to delight children and adults alike.
A Feast for the Senses
Attendees can look forward to festive treats such as cookies, popcorn, hot cocoa, and holiday punch, all provided free of charge. Fire pits for s’mores, live holiday music, and performances by local choirs and schools add to the magical atmosphere. Children can participate in Santa’s workshop, crafting ornaments and cards to take home, while families enjoy the bustling holiday market filled with unique gifts, homemade treats, and stocking stuffers.
Community Collaboration and Giving Back
The festival’s success relies on the support of local businesses, volunteers, and sponsors. Gina emphasizes the importance of community involvement, inviting businesses to sponsor various aspects of the event—from the kids’ craft area to the hot chocolate stand. Volunteers, often employees of sponsoring companies, help ensure the festival runs smoothly, reinforcing the spirit of giving that defines the season.
Beyond the Festival: A Season of Local Engagement
Transitioning from the festival, Janet and Gina highlight the countywide “shop small” promotion, which encourages residents to support local businesses not just on Small Business Saturday, but throughout the entire holiday season. Shoppers can submit receipts from local stores and restaurants for a chance to win generous shopping sprees, with prizes funded by community sponsors. This initiative, Gina notes, extends to all three towns in Page County—Luray, Stanley, and Shenandoah—ensuring that the benefits of shopping local are felt across the region.
A Calendar Full of Holiday Cheer
In addition to the festival and shopping promotion, the Chamber organizes a variety of events to keep the community engaged. From business networking socials to educational seminars, there is no shortage of opportunities for residents to connect and celebrate. Notably, the Chamber’s partnership with local organizations and businesses ensures that these events remain accessible and inclusive.
Staying Connected
For those seeking more information, Gina directs listeners to the Chamber’s website and social media pages, where event details and updates are readily available. She encourages anyone interested in volunteering or sponsoring to reach out, underscoring the Chamber’s commitment to fostering a strong, supportive community.
Conclusion: A Season to Remember
Ultimately, the Chamber Holiday Festival and its companion events exemplify the warmth and togetherness that define Page County during the holidays. As Gina and Janet’s conversation reveals, these traditions not only create lasting memories for families but also strengthen the bonds that make the community thrive year after year.