The Valley Today

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  Out of the Darkness 30.09.2026 29นาที

  A hula lesson, a string of honor beads, and a moment where you realize you are not alone — the Out of the Darkness Community Walk packs all of that into a single Saturday morning at Sherando Park. Janet Michael sits down at the Espresso Bar on the Old Town Walking Mall with returning guests Patricia Brewer and Mandy Foxley, co-chairs of the Stephens City walk, to talk about this year's event on October 10 and the community that has grown up around it. Mandy shares her own story of making it through to the other side and finding the walk through, of all things, a Facebook ad. Patricia and Mandy explain the bead colors and sand ceremony, the memorial photos along the walking path, and why nobody has to finish the walk (or even start it) to belong there. They also cover what the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention funds, this year's $85,000 goal, a tattoo-shop fundraiser, the traveling HOPE sign, and a brand-new AFSP Virginia license plate that needs 400 sign-ups. If suicide has touched your life in any way, this conversation is a reminder that there's a place for you. EVENT DETAILS Out of the Darkness Community Walk – Stephens City, presented by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Date: Saturday, October 10, 2026 Location: Sherando High School and Sherando Park, Stephens City, VA Registration/check-in: 9 AM Opening ceremony: 10 AM, followed by the walk (a little over a mile) and closing ceremony; usually wraps up by noon Cost: Free to register, online in advance or on walk day Fundraising: Optional but encouraged; raise or donate $150 to earn a walk T-shirt, with more incentive tiers at $250 and $500. Fundraising stays open through the end of the year. All ages welcome: kids' area, the Glimmer Station, community resource tables, and hula lessons before the walk. You don't have to walk to take part. Website: afsp.org/stephenscity LINKS & RESOURCES Stephens City Out of the Darkness Walk (register, donate, contact the co-chairs): afsp.org/stephenscity Find an Out of the Darkness walk elsewhere in Virginia: afsp.org/virginia American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: afsp.org Facebook: Stephens City Out of the Darkness AFSP Virginia license plate: details and sign-up on the walk's Facebook page or at the walk 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988, available 24/7 THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday
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  More Than Camping 29.09.2026 26นาที

  A haunted trail, campsites decked out for Halloween, and Yogi Bear himself — fall at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Luray is a lot more than pitching a tent. On this Luray-Page County edition of Tourism Tuesday, Janet Michael and Gina Hilliard of the Luray-Page County Chamber of Commerce welcome general manager Bryan Fykes — better known around the park as "Ranger Bryan" — to talk about one of Page County's most popular places to stay and play. Ranger Bryan walks through every way to visit, from day passes and pup tents to deluxe cabins and a five-bedroom house that families book for Thanksgiving. He shares the park's history, how it's coming back stronger after a fire this summer, and how locals can join in on the haunted trail this October. Gina looks back on her first job at the park as a teenager, and wraps up with the chamber's fall calendar — Women in Business trivia, a Golf Classic that funds local scholarships, and a 2027 trip to Croatia. Stick around for the bear puns alone. LINKS & RESOURCES Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, Luray: campluray.com Jellystone Park (all locations nationwide): campjellystone.com Jellystone Park Luray on Facebook: facebook.com/JellystoneLuray Luray-Page County Chamber of Commerce: luraypagechamber.com Also mentioned — Luray-Page County Chamber events: Women in Business Trivia Night — Wednesday, September 30, Coal Ridge Brewery, Stanley  4th Annual Chamber Golf Classic — Wednesday, October 14, Caverns Country Club, Luray; benefits scholarships for Luray High School and Page County High School seniors attending Laurel Ridge Community College Chamber Trip to Croatia — departs March 11, 2027; contact the chamber office for details THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday
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  Unstuck 28.09.2026 30นาที

  "I was stuck. You guys unstuck me." That's what one participant told Winchester CCAP Executive Director Andrea Cosans, and it's the heart of THRIVE, a new two-year program helping local families move from constant crisis to real self-sufficiency. Janet sits down at CCAP with Andrea and Jordan Hurley, Executive Assistant at Connected Communities, to talk about how four local nonprofits are joining forces to offer therapy, mentoring, case management, and job training all in one place. You'll hear how THRIVE grew from a $1,000 pilot into a full partnership, why therapy comes first, and the stories of past participants who now have steady jobs, their own businesses, and rebuilt family relationships. Andrea and Jordan also explain who's a good fit, how referrals work, and why helping one parent can change things for a whole family. If you know someone who's ready for a hand up, this is the episode to share. LINKS & RESOURCES Winchester CCAP — ccapwinchester.org Connected Communities — cciwinchester.com | Facebook, Instagram & TikTok: @cciwinchester I'm Just Me Movement — imjustmemovement.org Horizon Goodwill Industries — horizongoodwill.org United Way of the Northern Shenandoah Valley — unitedwaynsv.org  To ask about a THRIVE referral, contact any of the partners, your current case worker, or Dept of Social Services. THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday
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  Adventures in Cheese 25.09.2026 33นาที

  There's a cheese shop on the Old Town Walking Mall where you can taste anything in the case before you buy it, and yes, they make grown-up Lunchables. Janet Michael and Brady Cloven of Friends of Old Town pull up a chair at Fleur de Lis Cheese Shop with owner Terri Boyd, two years after she first joined the show just after opening. Terri explains what "fancy cheese" really means (hint: it's not as scary as it sounds), why an English cheddar tastes different from a New York one, why some cheeses are seasonal, and why your charcuterie board doesn't have to be pretty to taste great. She also shares news about new grazing tables for events and a job opening with a creative twist. Then Brady runs through a busy October downtown, from Oktoberfest and the last First Friday of the season to Hallo-Winchester trick-or-treating, plus a call for a 30-foot Christmas tree. Stick around for the moment Brady found out how one of his cheeses is made. LINKS & RESOURCES Fleur de Lis Cheese Shop website: cheesegoddess.com Fleur de Lis Cheese Shop on Facebook (Cheese School Monday, job posting): facebook.com/15FairfaxSt Visit: Fleur de Lis Cheese Shop, 17 S. Loudoun Street, Winchester, VA (Old Town Walking Mall, a few doors down from Wilkins Shoe Center). Open daily, 11 AM to 4 PM. Friends of Old Town (community calendar for downtown events): friendsofoldtown.org Friends of Old Town on Facebook  Main Street Masterpieces: friendsofoldtown.org/main-street-masterpieces Old Town Christmas tree: [email protected] Robby D's Lil Greens: robbydslilgreens.com THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday
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  Hidden Hunger 24.09.2026 22นาที

  For some kids in our area, Friday's school lunch is the last meal they can count on until Monday's breakfast. Janet Michael checks back in with Elise Stine-Dolinar of Bright Futures Frederick/Winchester to talk about the hidden hunger in our local schools, and how neighbors across Winchester and Frederick County are helping more than 1,200 students get fed every week. Elise walks through what goes into a weekend food pack, why fewer kids take the bags home as they get older, and how discreet school food pantries (one uses a clickable "hall pass") are reaching middle and high schoolers who'd rather go hungry than be seen. She also explains why allergy-friendly food matters, which donations are "gold" (and which to keep at home, like pickled beets), and how you can drop off food, shop the wish list, or give a few dollars that go further than you'd think. If you've ever wondered how to help a local kid in need, this conversation is a great place to start. LINKS & RESOURCES Bright Futures Frederick/Winchester website (see the needs lists under "Get Involved"): sites.google.com/fcpsk12.net/brightfuturesfrederickcounty/home Bright Futures Frederick/Winchester on Facebook: facebook.com/brightfuturesfrederickcounty Donation drop-off (donation shed by the first garage door): Bright Futures Distribution Center, 178 Indian Hollow Road, Winchester, VA 22603 Bright Futures phone: 540-667-2490 Bright Futures Amazon wish list: linked from the Bright Futures website and social pages THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday
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  Road Work Ahead 23.09.2026 24นาที

  New lanes on I-81, a brand-new bridge at Exit 313, and longer turn lanes on the roads you drive every day: VDOT's Ken Slack is back with the latest on the road work around the Northern Shenandoah Valley. Janet Michael checks in with Ken, communications specialist for VDOT's Staunton District, on the big highway projects that make headlines and the smaller fixes that change your daily drive. Ken explains the traffic shifts coming to the I-81 widening at Strasburg this October and November, and what drivers should expect as the Millwood Pike/Millwood Avenue project gets underway this fall. He also covers turn-lane work on Route 340, safety upgrades on Route 55, and the maintenance crews who keep the valley's roads, bridges, and ditches in shape all year. If you drive through Winchester, Strasburg, or Front Royal, listen for what's changing on your route and how to get around the work zones. (There's even talk of a "Janet lane.") LINKS & RESOURCES VDOT Staunton District projects: vdot.virginia.gov/projects/staunton-district Interstate 81 Strasburg-area widening (mile markers 295.4 to 299.6): vdot.virginia.gov/projects/staunton-district/interstate-81-strasburg-area-widening-mile-markers-2954-to-2996 Frederick County – Route 17/50/522 (Millwood Pike) bridge over Interstate 81: vdot.virginia.gov/projects/staunton-district/frederick-county--route-1750522-millwood-pike-bridge-over-interstate-81 City of Winchester – Millwood Avenue (Route 17/50/522): vdot.virginia.gov/projects/staunton-district/city-of-winchester---millwood-avenue-route-1750522 Town of Front Royal – South Street Improvements: vdot.virginia.gov/projects/staunton-district/town-of-front-royal---south-street-improvements Improve 81 (I-81 Corridor Improvement Program): improve81.vdot.virginia.gov VDOT Customer Service Center (report potholes and road concerns): my.vdot.virginia.gov or 800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623) THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday
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  Medieval in the Mountains 22.09.2026 25นาที

  North Mountain Vineyard & Winery's first Ravenwood Faire is almost here — and owner Jill Edlich says getting a 90-vendor medieval festival ready on a working vineyard has been its own kind of harvest season. Janet Michael and Kary Haun catch up with Jill for Shenandoah County Tourism Tuesday, checking in on everything that's changed since February: a new accessible walkway, a horse arena, and a vineyard now just months from hosting its biggest event yet. Jill talks through surviving an April frost scare, why Ravenwood Faire leans medieval instead of Renaissance, and what two full weekends (October 16–18 and 23–25) of jousting, vaulting, turkey legs, and handmade crafts will look like at its new home. She also opens up about the Ravenwood Foundation, the nonprofit behind it all that sends kids to camp and keeps them off their screens. Then Kary runs down everything else happening around Shenandoah County this fall — from Autumn Fest to a 50th-anniversary toast at one of Virginia's oldest wineries. EVENT DETAILS - Ravenwood Faire — presented by the Ravenwood Foundation Dates: October 16–18 and October 23–25, 2026 Hours: Fridays 3–9 PM, Saturdays 10 AM–7 PM, Sundays 10 AM–5 PM Location: North Mountain Vineyard & Winery, Maurertown, VA Tickets: Online presale (currently $5 off), tickets also available at the door; children 7 and under free; 2-day, 3-day, and 6-day (season) passes available Website: ravenwoodfaire.us LINKS & RESOURCES North Mountain Vineyard & Winery: northmountainvineyard.com Ravenwood Foundation: ravenwoodfoundation.org Shenandoah County Tourism (events calendar): visitshenandoahcounty.com THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday
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  Valley Venture Scavenger Hunt 21.09.2026 24นาที

  Grab a team, grab a driver, and get ready to venture across the Northern Shenandoah Valley — for a good cause. Janet is back on the Zooms with Gina Hilliard, president of the Luray-Page Chamber of Commerce, and Greg Stockton, development director for Seniors First, to talk about the Valley Venture Scavenger Hunt, an app-based fundraiser happening October 17th across six counties. Greg walks through how the app-based hunt works, why it's flexible enough for competitive teams and casual friend groups alike, and where the money raised goes to support homebound seniors across the Valley. Gina also shares what's coming up on the Luray-Page Chamber's own event calendar this fall. Tune in for all the details on how to register, what to expect on event day, and why this might be the most fun way yet to explore your own backyard. EVENT DETAILS Valley Venture Scavenger Hunt Date: Saturday, October 17 Time: App-based challenges open 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; celebration dinner at 6:00 PM Location: Teams can start anywhere across the six-county footprint (Page, Clarke, Frederick/Winchester, Warren, and Shenandoah counties); closing celebration is at the Warren Senior Center in Front Royal Format: Teams of two or more (must include a licensed adult driver), using the Eventzee app; teams choose their own challenges and order  Cost/Fundraising: Register free with a peer-to-peer fundraising commitment, or pay a flat per-person registration fee  Evening celebration: Barbecue dinner, a live auction (donations accepted through event day), and highlights from the day's team videos and photos Registration: bit.ly/valley-venture, or via the Givebutter fundraising link at seniorsfirst.info LINKS & RESOURCES Seniors First: seniorsfirst.info Seniors First — Donate: seniorsfirst.info/donate Luray-Page Chamber of Commerce: luraypagechamber.com/   Eventzee app: eventzeeapp.com/ THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday
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  Planting Seeds, Harvesting Change 18.09.2026 24นาที

  The Northern Shenandoah Valley Master Gardener Association is bringing back its fall symposium after a pandemic-era hiatus — and this year it comes with a theme, a full slate of local experts, and a challenge for every gardener in the room. Janet talks with Candace DeLong, Frederick County's Virginia Cooperative Extension agent, and Chris Jorgensen, president of the NSV Master Gardener Association, about what's in store on November 14 at Laurel Ridge Community College. This year's theme, "Planting Seeds, Harvesting Change," has speakers covering everything from gardening for birds to backyard meadows to the bugs in your beds — and each one is sending attendees home with a concrete action item. Janet, Candace, and Chris also dig into what the symposium's ticket sales actually fund, from seed lending libraries to children's garden programs, and preview the 2027 Master Gardener training class for anyone thinking about getting more involved. It's equal parts education and pep talk for anyone who's ever wondered why their garden isn't quite working yet. Event Details Fall Gardening Symposium — "Planting Seeds, Harvesting Change" Date: Saturday, November 14 Location: Laurel Ridge Community College, Middletown campus — Corron Community Development Center Doors: 8:00 AM (breakfast items available) | Sessions: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Cost: $65 per ticket, includes breakfast, snacks, and a pre-orderable boxed lunch (Panera; gluten-free/vegan options available) Incentive: Free coffee mug for the first 50 registrants Registration: nsvmga.org, or via NSVMGA's Facebook page (search "Northern Shenandoah Valley Master Gardener Association") 2027 Extension Master Gardener Class Info session: Tuesday, October 12, 6:00 PM, Shenandoah County Extension office (Woodstock) Class runs Feb. 15 – May 12, Monday and Wednesday nights, 6:00–9:00 PM, at the Shenandoah County Extension office Space limited to about 20 people; registration open now at nsvmga.org ("Join Us" tab) THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday
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  Community Health: Mobile Mammograms 17.09.2026 22นาที

  A brand-new, 36-foot pink mobile mammography unit just rolled into the Shenandoah Valley — and Janet Michael is sitting right next to it on the Winchester Medical Center campus to find out what it means for local women's health. On this Community Health episode, Janet talks with Jenny Grooms, Executive Director of Valley Health Foundations and Jason Craig, Senior Director of Community Health about the new unit that will bring full-quality 3D mammograms directly to workplaces, churches, schools, and community spaces across the region. They dig into who made the unit possible, why transportation and time off work are two of the biggest barriers to getting screened, and how the van — donated through Valley Health Foundations' Stronger Together campaign — will target the Valley's most rural corners first. Jason also shares the rollout timeline, what a screening day looks like, and how local employers, faith communities, and schools can request a stop. It's a fun, heartfelt conversation with a serious payoff: more women getting screened, closer to home. Links & Resources Valley Health: valleyhealthlink.com Give to Valley Health Foundations: valleyhealthlink.com/giving Stronger Together campaign: valleyhealthlink.com/stronger THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday
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  Planes, Cars, and Community 16.09.2026 22นาที

  Wings & Wheels is coming back to the Winchester Regional Airport on Saturday, October 3rd, and it's free to get in the gate. Janet sits down with Taylor Coumes of the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber and Pete Warren of United Bank to talk about how this beloved community event — think warbirds, classic cars, Air Force simulators, and food trucks — has grown to draw more than 3,000 people a year, and why United Bank stepped up as the presenting sponsor to keep it free for everybody. From shuttle logistics (don't park at the airport!) to a surprise plan to finally get Taylor on an airplane for the first time, this conversation covers everything you need to know before the big day, plus a look at how financial literacy, community partnership, and pure family fun all come together at 491 Airport Rd. Tune in for the full rundown before registration closes. EVENT DETAILS Event: Wings & Wheels 2026, presented by United Bank Date: Saturday, October 3, 2026, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM Rain date: Sunday, October 4, 2026 Location: Winchester Regional Airport, 491 Airport Rd., Winchester, VA 22602 Cost: Free admission Parking: No public parking at the airport. Park at Navy Federal Credit Union; free shuttle service runs 9:45 AM–3:30 PM (Frederick County Public Schools providing shuttles; handicap-accessible shuttle available) Registration: Car and aircraft registration closes Friday, September 25, 2026 — no day-of registration. A few vendor (not food) spots remain; apply online or by email. LINKS & RESOURCES Event info & registration: regionalchamber.biz/wings-and-wheels Top of Virginia Regional Chamber on Facebook Vendor/registration questions: Taylor Coumes — [email protected] United Bank: bankwithunited.com THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday
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  Art, History, and Horses 15.09.2026 17นาที

  It's Tourism Tuesday, Berryville/Clarke County edition, and that means one thing every September: Art at the Mill is back. Janet Michael is joined by Nathan Stalvey, Executive Director of the Clarke County Historical Association, for a full rundown of what's new this fall — from the juried art show's opening weekend to a brand-new exhibit exploring the little-known history of Black horsemen in Clarke County's equine legacy. Nathan and Janet cover the details on Art at the Mill (including the online gallery), the CCHA's newest exhibit on art, memory, and history, the return of the Haunted Historic Berryville tours, and the county's biggest history event of the year, Heritage Day. Tune in for all the dates, hours, and ticket details you need to plan your fall around Clarke County history. EVENT DETAILS Art at the Mill (Fall Show) Dates: Saturday, September 19 – Sunday, October 4 Location: Burwell-Morgan Mill, 15 Tannery Lane, Millwood, VA Hours: Sunday–Friday, 12:00–5:00 PM; Saturdays (3 dates), 10:00 AM–5:00 PM Admission: $5 adults, $3 seniors, free for kids and students Online gallery goes live September 19 at clarkehistory.org Exhibit Opening: "William and Byron: Art, Memory, and the Black Horsemen of Clarke County" Opening talk: Thursday, September 24, 6:00 PM Location: CCHA Museum, 32 East Main Street, Berryville, VA Free and open to the public; light refreshments; talk by curator Dana Getka On display through the end of the year Haunted Historic Berryville Tours Dates: Friday, October 23 & Saturday, October 24 Tour times: first tour 6:30 PM, last tour 8:00 PM (approx. 45 min–1 hour, walking tour) Tickets available at clarkehistory.org (Events tab) Heritage Day Date: Saturday, November 7, 11:00 AM–4:00 PM Free admission; historic re-enactors, working mill and cider press, family-friendly activities LINKS & RESOURCES Clarke County Historical Association: clarkehistory.org THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday
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  The Long Road Home 14.09.2026 20นาที

  When a disaster destroys your home, the shelter is never meant to be the ending point — it's step one. Janet Michael sits down with Deb Fleming, Executive Director of the American Red Cross of the Greater Shenandoah Valley, for a deep dive into the Red Cross's Shelter Resident Transition (SRT) program: the behind-the-scenes work of moving disaster survivors out of shelters and into permanent, sustainable housing. Deb walks through how SRT identifies each person's unique barriers to housing, why the Red Cross deliberately avoids "quick fix" solutions like extended hotel stays, and what it's actually like to help someone rebuild when they've lost everything — including the emotional toll on both survivors and the workers who support them. She also shares stories from Maui, from local house fires, and from building community partnerships that stretch far beyond the Red Cross itself. If you've ever wondered what happens to people after the cameras leave a disaster zone, this conversation has the answer. LINKS & RESOURCES American Red Cross volunteer sign-up: redcross.org United Way of Northern Shenandoah Valley Day of Caring — presented by First Bank: https://www.unitedwaynsv.org/day-caring-2026  Community Baby Shower donation drop-off: Marlow Motors locations and participating First Bank branches
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  More Than a Bus Stop 11.09.2026 26นาที

  After a record-breaking summer, the YDC is diving straight into a packed fall season — and Executive Director Sarah Fishel joins Janet Michael at the YDC's Loudoun Street home to walk through all of it. From a brand-new after-school program to two beloved traditions making their long-awaited return, there's a lot happening at 302 S. Loudoun Street in Old Town Winchester. Sarah shares how the new YDC Connect after-school program is reimagining care for kids in kindergarten through eighth grade, previews the return of free Saturday art classes (plus new donation-based classes for the grown-ups), and looks ahead to Trunk or Treat on October 17 and the comeback of Festival of Trees on November 21. She also introduces Baker's Anchor Mentoring, a program honoring the families who helped start the YDC three decades ago. Tune in for a full look at everything happening at the YDC this season — and how the community can get involved. EVENT DETAILS Trunk or Treat on Loudoun Street Date: Saturday, October 17 Location: The YDC, 302 S. Loudoun Street, Winchester Cost: Free (registration encouraged) Details: Community partner trunks, entertainment, and a pre-event "witch walk" fundraiser Festival of Trees Date: Saturday, November 21 Location: The YDC, 302 S. Loudoun Street, Winchester Daytime (10 AM–2 PM): Free family activities, cookie decorating, Santa, and viewing of trees/wreaths up for silent auction Evening: Ticketed candlelight showcase with a live tree and wreath auction, cocktail hour, and heavy hors d'oeuvres Cost: Free during the day; ticketed for the evening candlelight showcase Giving Tuesday Date: December 1 Focus: Raising support for summer access programming LINKS & RESOURCES YDC website (events, registration, volunteering, donations): myydc.org YDC Connect after-school program: available via myydc.org Baker's Anchor Mentoring (mentor/mentee applications, donations): available via myydc.org THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday
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  Running for Recovery 10.09.2026 24นาที

  A local 5K is doing double duty this year — raising money for scholarships and keeping a beloved friend's memory alive. Host Janet Michael is joined by Guy Curtis, Director of Marketing at Laurel Ridge Community College, along with Julie Judy and Meredith Speir-Cavalier, co-founders of The Recovery Connection, to talk about the Laurel Ridge Community College 5K and the scholarship it supports in honor of Alex Burton. In this episode, Julie and Meredith share how The Recovery Connection came to be, what their residential and community-based programs for women in recovery look like day to day, and why the Alex Burton Scholarship means so much to them personally. Guy Curtis rounds it out with everything you need to register, donate, or just show up and cheer on race day. Whether you're lacing up your running shoes or just want to support a great cause, this one's worth a listen. EVENT DETAILS Event: Laurel Ridge Community College 5K (run/walk, multi-surface course) Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026 Start time: 9:00 AM Location: Laurel Ridge Community College, Middletown Campus — starts and finishes at the Student Union building Cost: $35 per person  Registration: Online at laurelridge.edu/5k; registration closes the night before the race (September 18) Extras: T-shirt while supplies last, plus a barbecue sandwich for every runner courtesy of Shaffer's BBQ Beneficiary: Proceeds support the Recovery Connection Scholarship in honor of Alex Burton Direct donations: laurelridge.edu/give LINKS & RESOURCES Laurel Ridge 5K registration: laurelridge.edu/5k Donate to the Alex Burton Scholarship: laurelridge.edu/give The Recovery Connection: www.trc-va.com The Recovery Connection helpline: 540-594-HELP (540-594-4357) The Recovery Connection email: [email protected] THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday
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  Don't Touch That Dial 09.09.2026 17นาที

  Would your car still have AM radio if automakers got their way? Janet sits down with Andrew Shearer, President/Owner of Royal Broadcasting, which owns The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450, to talk about why AM radio still matters, and why it might disappear from new cars for good. Andrew breaks down why AM signal reaches places FM and cell service can't, what the American Red Cross has to do with any of this, and where things stand on a bill in Congress that could settle the question for good — including a House vote already on the calendar. Plus: what you can do about it before that vote happens. LINKS & RESOURCES theriver953.com — AM radio facts and a tool to find and contact your representatives THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday
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  15 Years of Art, Music, and Milestones 08.09.2026 27นาที

  It's Tourism Tuesday, Berryville/Clarke County edition, and Janet is on the Zooms with Martha Reynolds, Executive Director of Barns of Rose Hill, for a rundown of a huge year: new exhibitions, a brand-new midweek concert series, and a completed 10-year endowment challenge. From a colorful new exhibit inspired by Brazilian music to a can't-miss documentary premiere, Martha walks through everything happening at the Barns over the next few months — plus details on the organization's 15th anniversary gala, coming up September 19th. Whether you're into art, music, or just supporting a great local nonprofit, there's something here for you. EVENT DETAILS Barns of Rose Hill 15th Anniversary Gala Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026 Location: Barns of Rose Hill, Berryville, VA Details: Celebrating 15 years of the Barns and the completion of its 10-year endowment challenge. Music from Furnace Mountain Duo, catering by Bonnie Blue Southern Market and Bakery, live and silent auctions, and an online silent auction option for those who can't attend in person. More info/tickets: barnsofrosehill.org THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday
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  Pies, Pups & Pints 04.09.2026 20นาที

  It's the Shenandoah Valley's biggest fall tradition, and it's turning 52. Host Janet Michael sat down with Darla McCrary, co-chair of the Shenandoah Valley Apple Harvest Festival, at the Espresso Bar on Winchester's Old Town Walking Mall to talk pie contests, pony rides, and pints of hard cider. The Rotary Club of Winchester has put on this festival for over 50 years, raising an estimated $1.5 million for local nonprofits along the way. In this episode, Darla walks through everything happening at this year's two-day event at the Frederick County Fairgrounds — from the apple pie baking and eating contests to live music, a classic car show, 80–100 vendors, and a full lineup of pet-friendly, family-friendly fun. Tune in for all the details before gates open September 19th. EVENT DETAILS Shenandoah Valley Apple Harvest Festival (52nd Annual) Dates: Saturday, September 19 & Sunday, September 20 Times: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM both days Location: Frederick County Fairgrounds, Clearbrook, VA Admission: $10 general admission; free for kids 10 and under, first responders, veterans, military, and law enforcement (with ID). $1-off coupons available at Handy Mart stores, Winchester Visitor Center, & Claudio's pizza boxes. Drinks: $7 per pint (beer and cider); must be 21+ with ID Highlights: Live music both days, apple pie baking contest (Saturday, noon), apple pie eating contest (Saturday, 3:00 PM, adult and junior divisions), classic car & hot rod show, 80–100 artisan vendors, kids' zone, petting zoo, pony rides, and pet-friendly grounds Vendor sign-up deadline: September 9th LINKS & RESOURCES Festival website & vendor/contest sign-up: winchesterappleharvest.com Rotary Club of Winchester: rotaryclubofwinchester.org/  THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday
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  Scammed 03.09.2026 25นาที

  Even a veteran law enforcement officer can almost get scammed — and that's exactly what happened to Captain Warren Gosnell of the Frederick County Sheriff's Office, who joins Janet Michael for Public Safety Thursday to break down how today's fraudsters are getting smarter, sneakier, and harder to spot. From spoofed voicemail greetings that used Gosnell's own name and voice to the rise of "gold exchange" scams replacing gift cards, this conversation is a real-world look at how con artists build trust and confusion — and why no one, regardless of age or experience, is immune. Gosnell and Janet walk through the warning signs to watch for, what to actually do if you suspect a scam call, why reporting near-misses to law enforcement still matters, and the one simple rule that can stop almost any scam in its tracks: hang up and call the number you know, not the one they give you. THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday
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  More Than Membership 02.09.2026 26นาที

  Ever called the Chamber of Commerce to complain about a price hike at the Dollar Tree? Someone has — twice. On this episode of Valley Business Today, Niki Foster, President of the Front Royal-Warren County Chamber of Commerce, joins Janet Michael to clear up exactly what the Chamber is, what it isn't, and why so many people get it confused with local government. Niki walks through the Chamber's role as an independent, self-funded organization — from nonpartisan candidate forums and business education to the networking events, committees, and community programs that connect residents, nonprofits, and business owners alike. Whether you're a longtime member or have never set foot in the Chamber office, this conversation is a great refresher on how much value is packed into that membership — and how affordable it really is to join. Links & Resources Front Royal-Warren County Chamber of Commerce: frontroyalchamber.com Contact Niki Foster: [email protected] Coffee & Conversations — first Friday of every month, 9:00 AM, at On Cue (Front Royal) THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday