Beyond Labels: Foster Care That Changes Lives
The Valley Today
A Conversation About Community, Connection, and Caring for Kids in Need When Heather Frost joins Janet Michael on , she brings a message that hits close to home: hundreds of children across the Shenandoah Valley desperately need stable, caring families. As Foster Parent Coordinator for , Heather sees firsthand how the shortage of local foster homes affects vulnerable kids throughout our region. The Scope of the Problem The statistics paint a sobering picture. At any given time, Virginia has approximately 5,000 children in foster care. Remarkably, 40% of these children are teenagers—the age...
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Twenty Years of Transformation: How Laurel Ridge Community College Changed Page County
The Valley Today
From Crisis to Opportunity When the Wrangler plant closed its doors in Page County over two decades ago, the community faced a crossroads. However, what could have been a devastating blow instead became the catalyst for educational transformation. Dr. Kim Blosser, President of , talks with Janet Michael on to reflect on how the has spent 20 years opening doors for students who once had limited access to higher education. Geography as Destiny Before the center opened, Page County students faced a challenging reality. Located in a valley surrounded by mountains, they endured 45-minute to...
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ToVRC Community Leadership Program: Leading the Valley Forward
The Valley Today
A Broadcast with Purpose Host Janet Michael and cohost Andy Gail transform into a podcast studio, broadcasting from the 's (CLP). The energy in the room is palpable on this episode of , as this year's class gathers for their media and nonprofit session. Meanwhile, Andy, a 2016 CLP graduate and current CEO, reflects on how the program shaped his professional network nearly a decade ago. Three Decades of Community Connection As the program approaches its 30th anniversary, its impact continues to resonate throughout the Shenandoah Valley. Janet herself graduated from the inaugural class 29...
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Suzanne's Studio: Where Art Meets Community
The Valley Today
A Homecoming Story Suzanne Soliday has come full circle. After opening in Woodstock back in 2018, relocating to Florida in 2021, and continuing her artistic passion in Titusville, she's now back where it all began. In this Tourism Tuesday episode of , host Janet Michael and cohost from , Kary Haun sit down with Suzanne at her freshly reopened studio on West Court Street to explore what makes this creative space so special. Recording on a Friday afternoon with no snow on the ground—yet bracing for a major winter storm by Tuesday—the trio dives into Woodstock's thriving arts scene and the...
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Building Better Roads: Inside VDOT
The Valley Today
A Conversation About Infrastructure, Innovation, and Community Input The Shenandoah Valley's roadways are undergoing a massive transformation. In this episode of , host Janet Michael talks with Ken Slack, Communications Specialist for , to discuss the ambitious construction projects reshaping how residents travel through the region. What emerged was a fascinating look at the complex planning, engineering challenges, and community collaboration required to modernize aging infrastructure. Tackling the 81 Corridor's Toughest Stretch The conversation began with one of the most challenging sections...
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Let's Be Friends: Walking a Beat in Old Town
The Valley Today
On this lively episode of , host Janet Michael sits down with Brady Cloven, executive director of , and Corporal Rob Sloan, the City of Winchester’s dedicated Old Town walking mall officer. Their conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how visibility, relationships, and everyday interaction help keep downtown safe — and welcoming — for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. From Fairfax to Foot Patrol After more than three decades in law enforcement, Corporal Sloan brings a wealth of experience to Winchester. He spent 28 years with Fairfax County Police before relocating...
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VDOT: Brine Lines & Battle Plans
The Valley Today
The Science of Snow Preparation When winter storms threaten the Shenandoah Valley, springs into action long before the first flakes fall. In this episode of , host Janet Michael speaks with Ken Slack, Communications Specialist for the district, who reveals that preparation begins days in advance, with teams monitoring weather systems and planning for the worst-case scenario. "It's a whole lot easier and more efficient for us to scale back if we need to than it is to try to ramp up at the last minute," Ken explains. The district's response involves far more than simply sending out plows. In...
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FredCo Eats Restaurant Week Celebrates Its 5th Year
The Valley Today
A Winter Tradition Takes Root Frederick County's beloved Restaurant Week returns for its fifth anniversary, bringing 26 diverse eateries together for a week-long celebration of local flavor. Running from January 26th through February 1st, 2026, has evolved from a modest 15-restaurant launch into a cornerstone event that strengthens the entire regional food economy. In this episode of , host Janet Michael welcomes Wendy May, Marketing Manager for the , and Dan Myers, owner of , to discuss how this initiative has transformed the local dining landscape. Recording from Paladin's original Stephens...
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Vision, Volunteers, & Veggies: An Update from Winchester Co-Op Market
The Valley Today
When the idea of a community-owned grocery store begins to take root, it rarely starts with shelves and shopping carts. Instead, it starts with neighbors — people who believe food can connect a community more deeply than any national chain ever could. That belief sits at the heart of the , a grassroots effort working to bring a member-owned grocery store to the city. During this episode of , host Janet Michael reconnects with board leaders Michael Daryabeygi, vice president, and Christina McCarthy, board secretary, to explore where the project stands, how cooperatives work, and why now...
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Building Community Through Fitness: Inside Downtown Studios Unlimited
The Valley Today
A Warm Welcome to Wellness When Marcy Campbell greets newcomers at , she's not just welcoming them to a fitness class—she's inviting them into a family. As co-owner of this Luray-based group exercise studio, Marcy has spent decades transforming the way her community approaches health and wellness. In this episode of , she talks with host Janet Michael and co-host Gina Hilliard, president of the , to share her vision for accessible, enjoyable fitness. From the Eighties to Today: A Fitness Journey Marcy's story begins in the era of leg warmers and Jane Fonda workout videos. Together with her...
info_outlineOn a blustery Thursday, The Valley Today host Janet Michael and Brady Cloven, Executive Director of Friends of Old Town, set out on a spirited adventure through Winchester’s historic walking mall. Their mission? To uncover the best last-minute holiday gifts while showcasing the vibrant local businesses that make Old Town a shopping destination. Despite the biting wind, their enthusiasm never wavers as they pop into shops, chat with owners, and gather a sleigh-full of unique gift ideas.
A Shop-by-Shop Gift Guide
Their first stop, Back to the Media, offers a nostalgic twist on holiday shopping. Mari recommends pre-loved gaming consoles, a treasure trove of vinyl records, and quirky imported snacks—think garlic shrimp Doritos and stuffed-crust pizza chips—for stocking stuffers that spark conversation.
Next, at Wilkins Shoe Center, Kendra highlights the perennial popularity of gifting shoes, from Uggs to Birkenstocks, and reminds listeners that a gift certificate is always the perfect fit. The warmth of the store contrasts with the chilly weather outside, making it a cozy haven for holiday shoppers.
At Incredible Flying Objects, Drew and Anna introduce a playful selection of gifts, including collectible Sonny Angels, buildable Blokees toys, and novelty sodas and candy canes with flavors as wild as chicken soup and salmon. The store’s pinball machines add a dash of retro fun, inviting families to linger and play.
Handmade Artistry and Local Flavor
The journey continues at Tin Top Art and Handmade, where Jen showcases an eclectic mix of candles, soaps, ornaments, and pottery—all crafted by local artists. Brady raves about the shop’s unique t-shirts and postcards, while Janet marvels at the rotating gallery of one-of-a-kind art pieces. The message was clear: if you see something you love, grab it before it’s gone.
No tour of Old Town would be complete without a stop at the iconic Snow White Grill. Danny Turner, the ever-enthusiastic proprietor, offers up vintage toy cars, branded hats and shirts, and, of course, the legendary cheeseburgers. Gift certificates, he notes, are a delicious way to spread holiday cheer all year long.
Personal Picks and Community Spirit
Janet shares personal favorites like Winchester Book Gallery, Polka Dot Pot, and Nibblins cooking classes, as well as experiences like tickets to Bright Box shows and craft brewery visits. Art lovers are encouraged to explore the many galleries and artist co-ops sprinkled throughout downtown.
At Abija Blue, Susan dazzles with handmade alpaca blankets, shawls, and dog ponchos, along with Turkish towels, jewelry, and whimsical finger puppets. The shop’s global selection ensures that every shopper can find something special, regardless of budget.
The Power of Shopping Local
Throughout their stroll, Janet and Brady emphasize the importance of supporting small businesses, especially during the critical holiday season. They highlight the Old Town Holiday Gift Guide—a comprehensive directory and map available both in print and online—as an invaluable resource for navigating the diverse offerings downtown. Gift cards, they suggest, are not only thoughtful presents but also a lifeline for local shops during the slower winter months.
Wrapping Up with Warmth
As their conversation draws to a close at Hideaway Cafe, Janet and Brady reflect on the joy of discovering new favorites and the satisfaction of giving back to the community. Their lively banter and genuine appreciation for Old Town’s merchants capture the spirit of the season: connection, generosity, and the magic of shopping local.