Not Just Buildings

On this episode of Not Just Buildings, Joey sits down with Daniel and John Wright of Wright Choice Construction to talk about what really goes into building a home, especially when the property comes with challenges.From building on steep hillsides and managing drainage to planning ahead and providing clients with a fixed price before construction begins, they share why getting the details right matters.They also discuss the importance of accountability when things don't go as planned, the benefits of having an in-house team, and how faith plays a role in the way they do business.Tune in to hear more about their approach to building homes and the lessons they've learned along the way!

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United Way of Central Virginia once had a waitlist for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library; after expanding enrollment, it signed up about 500 more children following Parton’s death. Director of Resource Development Chris explains how the program mails a free, age-appropriate book each month to children from birth to age five and why local partners are working to fund the growing demand. He also shares how small workplace donations can help nonprofits unlock much larger grants, and describes United Way’s unusual 5K on the actual Lynchburg airport runway, capped at around 700 runners. A look at the local programs, people, and dollars behind community support in Central Virginia.

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A house fire can leave a family without medication, clothes, or a place to sleep but the Red Cross may arrive within two hours with immediate supplies, financial assistance, and help replacing prescriptions. In this episode, Michelle Dowdy, executive director of the American Red Cross in the Blue Ridge Bay area, explains what local support looks like beyond blood drives, from free smoke alarms to emergency preparedness resources. She also shares how the Red Cross helps reconnect families separated by conflict or disaster and why donated blood can’t be manufactured. Hear how to get help, volunteer, host a blood drive, or make a difference with a donation.

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After 22 years in clinical thermography, Tammy has built a network of 42 screening locations across Virginia and now calls Bedford County home. On Not Just Buildings, she explains how an infrared camera records patterns of heat and cool, why she sees thermography as a noninvasive screening tool, and how the results can be shared with a healthcare practitioner. She also discusses why men may benefit from screenings too, what happens when a scan suggests further testing, and the special pricing Longevity Thermography offers during Breast Health Awareness Month. Find out where screenings are available and how Tammy’s work fits into a proactive approach to health.

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In this episode of Not Just Buildings, Kayla and new Chamber Marketing Coordinator Joey sit down with Genny Luedtke from Fables & Feathers Winery, a family-owned winery in Goodview, Virginia. Genny shares the winery’s origin story, which began during the pandemic in 2020, and describes their hands-on harvest process, which relies on more than 100 volunteers.

She highlights their packed October event calendar, including Oktoberfest, a glow salsa dance party, Trunk or Treat, and a Halloween pet costume contest benefiting the Bedford County Animal Shelter. Genny also discusses the winery’s family-friendly atmosphere and exciting plans for future growth.

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In this episode of Not Just Buildings, Kayla sits down with Mayor C.G. Stanley and Town Manager Bart Warner to discuss the growth and future of Bedford, Virginia. The two leaders share their personal connections to the town and highlight exciting residential developments that are attracting new residents to the area.

They also address challenges facing the community, including traffic congestion, infrastructure demands, and high electricity costs. Both emphasize Bedford’s small-town charm, low crime, and convenient location near larger cities as key reasons people are drawn to the area. They also discuss local government transparency, community engagement efforts, and their shared vision for a revitalized downtown and a thriving, growing community.

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In this episode of Not Just Buildings, host from the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce interviews Joel Miller, the new Executive Director of Eagle Eyrie, a camp and conference center near Lynchburg, Virginia. Joel shares his background as a former Tennessee youth pastor and missionary, and how he unexpectedly landed the role. He describes Eagle Eyrie's rich history, versatile facilities accommodating groups from 10 to 900 people, and its peaceful mountain setting. Joel also outlines his priorities, including increasing community awareness, expanding programming, and building local relationships. The host also highlights upcoming Chamber events, including a job fair and candidate forum.

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In this episode of Not Just Buildings, hosted by the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, Kyle and Matt of the Hill City Howlers baseball team discuss the team's rebranding from the Lynchburg Hillcats following a 2024 ownership change. They highlight the enhanced game-day experience, featuring affordable family entertainment, themed mascots, and Saturday fireworks. Guests also cover exciting ballpark renovations, including a new kids' play area, a double-decker bar, and an expanded event space. Additionally, they announce an October concert series and outline various community partnership opportunities for local businesses and organizations.

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In this episode of Not Just Buildings, host Kayla interviews Stephanie, Executive Director, and Chelsey, Program Coordinator at the Sedalia Center in Bedford, Virginia. They discuss the center's upcoming events, including the Blues and Bayou-themed Sedalia Feast fundraiser, a Bears 101 talk, and a barn quilt painting workshop. They highlight their seven annual festivals and the Living Arts Afternoons free after-school program for elementary-aged children. The guests also discuss the Big Island Backpack Program addressing food insecurity, volunteer opportunities, and their mission to foster community through arts, education, and nature on the center's 17-acre grounds.

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In this episode of Not Just Buildings, host Foster highlights upcoming Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce events, including ribbon cuttings, an advocacy forum, and a fall job fair. She then interviews Rachel, Market Manager at Manpower, who shares her 32-year journey with the company from associate to leader. Rachel explains Manpower's wide range of staffing services, including temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct hire placements, along with free training programs for job seekers. The episode concludes with Foster announcing her departure as host, transitioning to a new role with the Virginia Economic Development Partnership.

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