The Valley Today

Our conversation for Traffic Safety Thursday with Lt. Warren Gosnell from Frederick County Sheriff's Office gives some insight into the fallout from a crash like the one that happened on Interstate 81 this week.  Lt. Gosnell talks about the difficult conversation family members should consider having with their elderly loved ones when it comes to their driving privileges. He also sympathizes with the bystanders/travelers who were caught up in the overflow traffic when diversion from I-81 began. Lt. Gosnell also shares his frustration with "electronic rubberneckers" who held up traffic while trying to snap photos and take video of the accident and backups. He cautions against such acts particularly when they're posted on social media out of respect for families. Additionally, he reminds listeners that slow moving traffic is still moving, therefore you CANNOT have your phone in your hands.

Our conversation for The Valley Business Today - Front Royal/Warren County edition - with Niki Foster from Front Royal/Warren County Chamber of Commerce gives all the details for the 36th Annual Virginia Wine & Craft Festival happening in downtown Front Royal on Saturday, May 18, 2024 from 11am - 6pm. We talk about the logistics, preparations, and experiences related to organizing the festival including the history of the event, volunteer involvement, the admission process, vendor experiences, and the importance of supporting local businesses. Niki also highlights the music lineup, kids' activities, VIP ticket benefits, and the overall community impact. Learn more (and purchase tickets) about the 36th Annual Virginia Wine & Craft Festival on their website: http://www.wineandcraftfestival.com 

Our conversation today featured Sara Beth Hayes, Market Manager for the Clarke County Farmer's Market and Turner Kobayashi from Audley Farm to discuss the opening of the Clark County Farmer's Market on May 4, 2024. Sara Beth & Turner talk about the market's history, vendors, new additions, activities, sponsorships, and community involvement. They highlight the variety of vendors, local support, flexible vendor options, and community events planned for the market season. There is a focus on family-friendly activities, live music, pet-friendly atmosphere, and engagement with the local community. The Clarke County Farmer's Market is open every Saturday from 8am - 12pm at 317 W. Main Street in Berryville from May through October. Learn more on their website: http://www.clarkecountyfarmersmarket.com/ and follow them on Facebook.  

Our conversation today with Tyler Hinkle, Shenandoah County's Planner is part of an ongoing series following the work on Shenandoah 2045 - Shenandoah County's comprehensive plan. The planning process will unfold over the course of four years with the majority of the community collaboration occurring from 2020-2022, with input in 2023-2024. Joining Tyler today was McKenzie Allen, an associate planner with Shenandoah County. The pair discuss various aspects of the planning process, including updates on the plan, public engagement, citizen involvement, challenges faced, exciting aspects of the plan, education on easements, community preservation, future implementation steps, and timelines for finalizing the plan. Tyler and McKenzie share insights and experiences regarding the planning process, the importance of community engagement, and the balance between development and preserving the rural character of Shenandoah County. They highlight the efforts to create a plan that aligns with the community's vision while addressing concerns and incorporating feedback from various stakeholders. Tyler also emphasizes the need for active participation from the community, provides information on accessing the draft plan on the county's website, and encourages individuals to engage in the public hearing process to express their opinions and support for the plan. You can view the entire plan in various forms, and learn more about the planning process, on their website: https://shenandoahcountyva.us/future and follow them on Facebook. You can listen to previous conversations with Tyler about Shenandoah 2045 by clicking here.

Our conversation today featured author, Peter Malone Elliott to discuss his debut novel, "Blue Ridge," and his journey as a writer. Peter explains various aspects of the book, including character development, plot twists, research process, and inspiration behind the story. He shares insights into his writing process, experiences, and upcoming projects. The discussion touches on themes like family influence, storytelling, and the art of writing fiction. It concludes with details about an upcoming book signing event at Winchester Book Gallery on Saturday, May 4, 2024, between 2pm - 4pm, and Peter's future plans for writing. Learn more about Peter on his website: https://www.pmelliott.com/ and follow him on Instagram. You can pick up his book now at Winchester Book Gallery or order it from them online by clicking here.  

Our conversation today with Shannon Ganoe, Winchester's Community Paramedic includes a discussion about the crucial role of community paramedics in connecting with residents and addressing their diverse needs. Shannon shares insights into her role, the challenges faced by the community, and the initiatives taken to support the homeless population. She also highlights the importance of collaboration, compassion, and advocacy in providing essential care to those in need.  Shannon gives details about the essential care kit she's creating that includes various personal hygiene items for the homeless population. Learn more about what's needed and how you can help by clicking here.  

Our conversation for The Valley Business Today included Jenny Stover, Director of Marketing & Communications for the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber to get details about several programs and upcoming events. We discuss various events and programs organized by the Chamber, such as the Arising Leadership Program, Community Networking Groups, and Business After Hours. Jenny highlights the importance of community involvement, sponsorship opportunities, and the benefits of chamber membership for businesses. She emphasizes the networking opportunities provided by the Chamber through different groups and events and elaborates on the rebranding of the veteran networking group and the resources available for veterans starting their own businesses.  Learn more about the community networking groups, membership, and upcoming events on their website: https://www.regionalchamber.biz/ 

Our conversation for Tourism Tuesday with Justin Kerns from Winchester/Frederick County Convention & Visitors Bureau features Joseph Durbin, the new owner of The Blue Ball Inn located in Brucetown, VA. Our discussion covers a range of topics including the inn's peculiar history, personal connections to the property, paranormal activities reported on site, and the community engagement through events like paranormal investigations and tours. Joseph provides a mix of historical facts, personal anecdotes, and plans for the future to engage both local and wider audiences interested in historical preservation, paranormal activity, and community events. The Blue Ball Inn has partnered with local businesses to offer a unique ParaCon event on Saturday, May 11, 2024, and Sunday, May 12, 2024. Visitors are invited to visit the Inn to decide for themselves whether it is truly haunted, while also strolling through a multitude of vendors including local crafters, food trucks, psychic mediums, and authors. The hours for Saturday are 10am - 6pm, with the option to attend a live paranormal investigation starting at 7pm. On Sunday, the event will run from 10am - 4pm.  Admission is donation-based with tickets available on Eventbrite or at the door and optional add-ons including the afterhours investigation and a talk by celebrity paranormal investigator Sean Austin, who was the first to ever investigate the Inn. There will also be a silent auction and 50/50 raffle to help raise money to preserve this unique landmark. Learn more on their website: https://bbi1747.com/ and follow them on Facebook.  

Our conversation today featured Kristen Gregg and Aliyha Gill from Phoenix Project to give details about several upcoming events. April is both Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Child Abuse Prevention Month. Kristen and Aaliyah talk about the importance of volunteers and upcoming events such as their Mother's Day gift basket raffle and their 10th-anniversary celebration. Aaliyah explains her role as a sexual assault advocate and the services provided by Phoenix Project. The pair also touch on educational initiatives, events, and campaigns related to sexual violence awareness, healthy relationships, and consent. To learn more about Phoenix Project and access their services, visit their website: https://phoenix-project.org/ 

Our conversation for Extension Office Friday includes several local 4H agents: Carol Nansel representing Shenandoah County, Spring Vasey representing Frederick County, and Meagan Dyer representing Page County. The group discusses the importance and benefits of 4H camps that include youth development, leadership skills, and the lifelong friendships that develop. We learn information about different 4H camps, the activities offered, the age groups of campers, dates of specific camps, the role of teen counselors, volunteer opportunities, managing parents, and the experience of disconnecting from electronics at camp. They highlight the emotional impact on both campers and parents, emphasizing the valuable experiences and memories created during 4H summer camps. Learn more about Culpeper/Rappahannock/Shenandoah County's 4H camp that runs June 9-13, 2024, by clicking here. Learn more about Frederick/Page County's 4H camp that runs June 16-20, 2024, by clicking here. Learn more about Warren/Clarke County's 4H camp that runs July 21-25, 2024, by clicking here.  

As part of our community health partnership with Valley Health, this month we talked with Scott Trivette, Program Manager of Volunteer Services. Scott manages the volunteer programs at Winchester Medical Center and Warren Memorial Hospital. Scott emphasizes the impact of volunteerism on the community and discusses the role of volunteers in providing hope and healing at hospitals. He talks about how volunteering goes beyond traditional roles, he welcomes individuals with various skill sets, the inclusive nature of volunteering and the rewarding experience it offers. He mentions the rebuilding of the volunteer program post-COVID and the need for more volunteers - particularly those interested in driving the courtesy van. He also explains the process of volunteering at Valley Health, highlighting online applications and orientations. We discuss accommodating volunteers with limited availability and remote volunteering options. Learn more about volunteering at Valley Health on their website: https://www.valleyhealthlink.com/volunteer If you'd like to host Scott as a speaker for your community group, click here to send him an email. You can also reach him via phone: 540-536-8158

Our conversation today is part of an ongoing partnership with the US Small Business Administration highlighting small businesses in the Shenandoah Valley as well as offering advice and resources to all small businesses. My co-host for this monthly series is Carl Knoblock, Virginia District Director for the SBA. We met at GNC Online Auction's Winchester warehouse for an in-depth discussion about their business model and the dynamic between buyers, sellers, and the auction house. Felicia Hart & Scott Haines, owners of the auction house share experiences and anecdotes related to acquiring the auction business, its operational challenges, and the uniqueness of auctioned items. They explain the start of their venture, the pandemic's impact, the diverse range of items up for auction, and how these auctions connect people with unique and sometimes historical items. We delve into business strategies, customer engagement, and the broader implications of their work, like community involvement and environmental benefits. Throughout, Carl offers perspectives on the business model and suggestions for outreach and expansion, intertwining with discussions about the potential for education through auctioned items and the importance of community in the auction business. Learn more about GNC Online Auctions on their website: https://gnconlineauctions.com/ and follow them on Facebook. Click here to listen to other conversations in this small business series.  

Our conversation for Tourism Tuesday with Edison Emmons from Luray/Page Chamber of Commerce included Teri Beers, Parks Director for the Town of Stanley. Teri gives details for a few upcoming events in Stanley, including the Spring into Stanley event on April 20th and the Stanley Homecoming from July 3rd to 6th. She also talks about their movie nights and lifeguard needs.   

Our conversation today welcomed back Justin Proctor and Mike Shotten, committee members of Front Royal's ACES (Advisory Committee for Environmental Sustainability) to discuss the organization's mission in building community around environmental and conservation projects in Front Royal. Justin and Mike elaborate on the committee's growth, diverse membership, and various projects aimed at environmental preservation and community engagement. They emphasize the importance of native plants, sustainability, and community involvement in environmental initiatives. The pair give details about the upcoming Lone Pine Day 2024 event scheduled for Sunday, April 21, 2024, highlighting activities such as a tree planting ceremony, educational presentations, free plant giveaways, and community engagement opportunities. The family-friendly event is free for the public to attend and will run from 10am - 3pm in the gazebo area in downtown Front Royal. Lone Pine Day aims to promote environmental awareness, conservation, and youth involvement.  Click here to learn more about ACES and follow the event on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1454786115390132   

Our conversation today features Katie Harvard from the Little Garden Club. Katie talks about the significance and history of Historic Garden Week in Virginia, the impact it has on restorations, the collaboration between The Little Garden Club and Winchester-Clark Garden Club, and the details of the upcoming garden tours on April 27th. We discuss the different houses on the tour, the ticket prices and locations to purchase them, the schedule for the tour day, and the experiences visitors can expect at each house. She also covers the educational aspect of joining a garden club, the camaraderie it offers, and the love for gardening shared among members. Katie provides insight into the preparations for Garden Week, the unique features of each house on the tour, and the diversity of gardens and floral arrangements visitors can expect to see. Additionally, we touch upon the learning opportunities, expectations regarding garden appearances, and the fun and creativity involved in exploring different gardening ideas. Learn more about Historic Garden Week in Virginia and get your tickets on their website: https://www.vagardenweek.org/   

Our conversation today with Guy Curtis, Director of Marketing for Laurel Ridge Community College includes Deb Taylor, Director of Corporate Training for Workforce Solutions. Deb explains how corporate training works at Laurel Ridge, emphasizing customized training solutions for employers, including leadership development, strategic planning, and on-site training. She delves into the benefits of on-site training, the importance of transferring knowledge and skills across generations, and the significance of programs like Basecamp and Leadership Institute. Deb also highlights upcoming events like Admin Professionals Day and Leadercast, focusing on essential habits for success and providing opportunities for growth and networking. Learn more about corporate training on their website.

Our conversation for The Valley Business Today - Luray/Page County edition - with Edison Emmons from the Luray/Page Chamber of Commerce features Lesley Mack and Will Daniels from the Hill and Valley Garden Club. They explain the club's history, activities, and upcoming events. We discuss their environmental initiatives, educational programs, and community involvement. Lesley shares details about their annual Garden Lovers Day event, native plant sales, and fundraising efforts for environmental scholarships. Will talks about their bulb and plant sale scheduled for October.  Learn more about Garden Lover's Day happening on May 18, 2024 from 10am - 4pm at Birdsong Pleasure Garden on their website: https://www.hillandvalleygc.com and follow them on Facebook.

Our conversation today with Nathan Stalvey, Director of Clarke County Historical Association gives details about the Art at the Mill spring show that opens on April 20. Nathan talks about the process of selecting artists for the show, the variety of artworks displayed including pottery and woodworking, the admission fees, the importance of the art show as a fundraiser for the CCHA, and the scholarships awarded to high school students pursuing arts degrees. We also delve into the recognition received by the CCHA from the Virginia General Assembly for their preservation efforts, specifically the funding needed for the restoration of the Mill Dam.  Art at the Mill will run from April 20 - May 5, 2024. Hours are Sunday - Friday from 12pm - 5pm, and on Saturdays from 10am - 5pm. The Burwell Morgan Mill is located at 15 TAnnery Lane in Millwood, VA. Learn more on the CCHA website: https://www.clarkehistory.org/ and follow them on Facebook.

Our conversation with Dawn Devine, Executive Director and Tammy Stevenson, Director of Development & Marketing for Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum gives details for their fundraiser: Are You Smarter Than A 4th Grader? The event happens on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, from 6pm - 8pm in the Patsy Cline Auditorium at Handley High School. Dawn & Tammy talk about how the contest works, why it's important, and the relationships they've built with our local educators. We discuss the role Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum plays in educating children (and parents) in a fun & engaging way. Tammy gives a sneak peek at other upcoming events such as summer camps, the Sunset Series, and Free First Fridays. Learn more on their website - where you can also purchase tickets for Are You Smarter Than A 4th Grader? https://discoverymuseum.net/ 

Our conversation for United Way Day with United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley's CEO, Kaycee Childress features Beth Ogle, Executive Director for Response, Inc. April is both Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Child Abuse Prevention Month. Response, Inc. is Shenandoah County's only agency dedicated to assisting those affected by sexual and domestic violence.  Response provides a 26-bed shelter for women and children, and extensive supportive services for survivors, both in- and out-of-shelter. Response advocates serve men, women, and children who are survivors of intimate partner and domestic violence; this includes victims of physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, and financial abuse.   Beth talks about the various services they offer and explains the situations many of their clients find themselves in both before and after seeking help and safety. She talks about the value of the impact grants they receive through United Way and the work they're able to accomplish because of them. Learn more about the work that Response does and how you can be a part of it by visiting their website: https://www.responseva.org/ and following them on Facebook.  You can contribute to United Way's campaign to fund impact grants on their website: https://www.unitedwaynsv.org/ or through a fundraiser on their Facebook page.