The County Connection

🎙️ Episode 13 — Building a Legacy: The Shenandoah Community Foundation
This week on The County Connection, we’re celebrating National Community Foundation Week by spotlighting one of the Valley’s most impactful organizations—the Shenandoah Community Foundation.

Hosts Stuart Freakley and Justin Wightman sit down with Executive Director Becky Stickley to explore how the Foundation helps residents turn their passions into a lasting legacy for generations to come. From scholarships and local nonprofit support to creative giving options, this episode dives deep into the power of community philanthropy and what it means to give right here at home.

Tune in for inspiring stories, a few surprises in our “Rapid-Fire Philanthropy” segment, and practical insights into how anyone—no matter their age or income—can make a difference that lasts.

💡 Celebrate National Community Foundation Week with us and discover how small acts of generosity can build a stronger Shenandoah County!

In this moving episode of The County Connection, hosts Justin Wightman and Stuart Freakley dive deep into what it truly means to stand together when someone is in crisis. With guests Amanda Kibler, Court and Community Liaison at Northwestern Community Services Board (NWCSB), and Chief Chris Rinker of the New Market Police Department, along with his loyal K9 partner, Benelli, listeners are guided through the real steps of crisis response, from the first call for help to the compassionate follow-up that makes healing possible.

Amanda shares how NWCSB’s Same Day Access program ensures no one faces mental health struggles alone, offering immediate care for both adults and children. Chief Rinker gives a behind-the-scenes look at what happens when police are called to support someone in distress, emphasizing empathy, patience, and connection over confrontation. Together, they highlight how friends, family, law enforcement, and the local community services board form a critical network of care—proving that no one has to navigate mental illness in isolation.

But it’s Benelli, Chief Rinker’s gentle and steadfast K9 partner, who often steals the show. Whether calming a child in crisis or simply offering a quiet paw on a tough day, Benelli reminds us of the simple, wordless ways we can show up for one another. His presence embodies what this conversation is all about—the shared humanity that bridges fear and hope.

This episode isn’t just informative, it’s deeply human. You’ll come away with practical guidance, renewed compassion, and perhaps a tear or two as you’re reminded that being there for each other, in big ways and small, is what community is all about.

💚 If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available.
Contact Northwestern Community Services Board at (540) 459-5180 or visit www.nwcsb.com.
In emergencies, always call 911.

In this insightful episode of The County Connection, hosts Justin Wightman and Stuart Freakley welcome Whitney Minnick from the American Cancer Society for an open conversation about the organization’s mission, impact, and the common misconceptions that surround it.

Whitney explains how the ACS supports people and families in Shenandoah County and beyond — through research, patient programs, and community initiatives like Relay For Life and Pink Power Day at Shenandoah Downs.

Listeners will come away with a clearer understanding of how this national organization makes a local difference, and how each of us can join the movement to end cancer as we know it.

🎧 Brought to you by the Shenandoah County Chamber of Commerce.

In this episode, hosts Justin Wightman and Stuart Freakley sit down with Craig Everett of Everett Insurance Agency to talk about what it really means to have peace of mind when life throws you a curveball.

From insurance myths and facts to quirky “lightning round” questions about insuring unusual things, this episode blends humor, community spirit, and practical advice. Listeners will discover the real value of having a local insurance agent—someone who knows your family, your business, and your community, and is just a phone call away when you need help most.

Whether you’ve ever wondered about the benefits of working with a local agent, or just want to hear some entertaining insurance stories, this episode has something for you.

📌 Contact Information

To connect with Everett Insurance Agency:

Website: https://agents.farmers.com/va/woodstock/craig-everett/

Phone: (540) 459-2278

Email: [email protected]

Office: 110A E High Street, Woodstock, VA

In this episode of The County Connection, we sit down with Rachel Fitzsimmons, founder of RR Healing Arts, whose vibrant murals and creative vision are transforming spaces across Shenandoah County. Rachel shares her inspiring journey—from discovering her love of art in high school, to studying energy healing, to launching RR Healing Arts in 2023 as a fusion of her passions for creativity, wellness, and community.

We explore her process of bringing large-scale public art to life, including the murals at the Shenandoah County Chamber of Commerce and the courthouse, as well as her deep belief in art’s ability to heal, inspire, and connect people. Rachel also opens up about her creative influences, the role of authenticity in her work, and her hopes for supporting the next generation of artists.

Get in touch with Rachel at RR Healing Arts:
🌐 Website: www.rrehealingarts.com
📧 Email: [email protected]

In this heartfelt conversation, we sit down with Adrienna D’Asti, founder of The Memory Garden, to talk about compassionate care for people living with memory loss and the families who love them. Adrienna shares why she started The Memory Garden, what person-centered support can look like at home and in the community, and simple ways to create moments of connection—through routine, sensory cues, music, storytelling, and more. We also discuss how caregivers can navigate overwhelm, set realistic expectations, and find small rituals that restore energy and hope.

Whether you’re supporting a parent, spouse, friend, or neighbor, this episode offers gentle guidance and practical ideas you can use right away.

Get in touch with Adrienna:
Phone: 540-333-6187
Email: [email protected]

🍿 What does it take to turn a simple snack into a thriving small-town business? In this episode of The County Connection, we talk with Jennifer Osbourn and Quinn Neff from Blue Ridge Popcorn, a Shenandoah County favorite that’s bringing a fresh twist to gourmet popcorn.

Jennifer shares the inspiration behind launching the business, how she sourced locally-grown corn, and the support she received from the Shenandoah County Chamber of Commerce and the Laurel Ridge Small Business Development Center. Quinn gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the shop’s fun and flavorful workplace culture.

Whether you’re a foodie, a small business dreamer, or just love a good success story, you’ll be inspired, and probably hungry, by the end of this episode.

📅 New episodes of The County Connection now drop on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month — subscribe so you never miss a story!

🎧 Listen now, subscribe for more local business spotlights, and learn how you can support Blue Ridge Popcorn and other incredible Shenandoah County entrepreneurs.

📍 Visit Blue Ridge Popcorn: https://blueridgepopcornco.com
Follow Shenandoah County Chamber of Commerce: https://www.facebook.com/ShenandoahCountyChamberOfCommerce

In this episode, hosts Justin Wightman and Stuart Freakley sit down with Sharon Baroncelli, President of the Shenandoah County Chamber of Commerce, to explore the real value of Chamber membership. Whether you're a brand-new entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, discover how the Chamber supports growth, networking, marketing, advocacy, and professional development at every stage. Sponsored by Shenandoah Caverns, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to thrive in Shenandoah County’s business community.

How does a police department build trust and ensure safety, not just for residents, but for the local business community? 🤔 We sat down with the Woodstock Police Department to unpack their unique approach! This episode highlights their unwavering commitment to community engagement, core values, and continuous improvement, showcasing how they truly act as partners for businesses.

We cover:

• The essential role of community engagement in effective policing, benefiting residents AND commerce

• How core values guide daily operations and foster a safe business environment

• Proactive measures against emerging financial crimes that threaten local enterprises

• The importance of continuous improvement through accreditation, boosting overall public confidence

Tune in to learn more about the dedication and empathy driving the Woodstock Police Department's efforts to support both citizens and the local economy!

Listen to the latest "County Connection" podcast! Hosts Justin Wightman and Stuart Freakley chat with Chief Keith Cowart (Mount Jackson PD) and Chief Wayne Sager (Strasburg PD) about the vital link between local businesses and law enforcement.

They cover:

• Business & Police Partnerships

• Crisis Preparedness for Businesses

• Investing in Youth & Jobs

• Downtown Nightlife & Safety

• What Leadership Means

Don't miss this insightful discussion on building a safer, more vibrant Shenandoah County! Sponsored by the delicious Melted Dreams Food Co. 🎧