Nestled in the heart of Winchester, Virginia, Old Town is experiencing a renaissance—one fueled by creativity, collaboration, and a deep appreciation for local history. In a recent conversation on "The Valley Today," host Janet Michael sat down with Brady Cloven, executive director of Friends of Old Town, and Jill Savory, the passionate founder of Typewriter Studio, to explore the vibrant changes sweeping through this historic district.

Typewriter Studio, once a humble typewriter repair shop, now stands as a testament to the power of reinvention. Jill Savory, a former elementary art teacher, shared her journey from the classroom to entrepreneurship, driven by a desire for flexibility and a calling to foster creativity in her community. With encouragement from her husband, Jill transformed the old shop into a welcoming space for art classes, workshops, and gallery shows, catering to all ages and skill levels. "Art is part of being a human person," Jill reflected, emphasizing the studio's mission to make art accessible and meaningful for everyone.

The conversation also spotlighted the broader movement to revitalize Old Town. Brady detailed initiatives like Main Street Masterpieces, which turns vacant storefronts into mini art galleries, and the upcoming public mural project, designed to celebrate literacy and family-friendly themes. These efforts, he explained, are about more than beautification—they're about building connections, supporting local artists, and inviting residents and visitors alike to experience the district's unique charm.

Events like First Fridays, with their rotating themes and live performances, further energize the area, drawing crowds to local businesses and fostering a sense of community pride. Both Jill and Brady highlighted the collaborative spirit among Winchester's artists and entrepreneurs, noting that competition has given way to mutual support and shared excitement for the town's future.

As Old Town Winchester continues to evolve, spaces like Typewriter Studio and programs led by Friends of Old Town are proving that art and community go hand in hand. Through their vision and dedication, they are not only preserving the district's rich heritage but also ensuring it remains a lively, inclusive, and inspiring place for generations to come.

In the latest episode of 'The Valley Today,' host Janet Michael engaged in an enlightening conversation with the Community Foundation of Northern Shenandoah Valley (CFNSV). Janet was joined by the CFNSV's executive director, Nancy Baker, and Erik Beatley, the board chair, who shed light on the foundation's crucial role in the community and their efforts to bolster local nonprofits.

Eric began by providing an overview of the Community Foundation's mission. Established 20 years ago, the CFNSV functions as a long-term savings account for both nonprofits and donors. With nearly $17 million in invested funds, managed by Mason Investments, even small nonprofits can benefit from significant investment opportunities and reduced fees by pooling their resources with CFNSV.

Janet expressed the utility of the Community Foundation's service, highlighting how it simplifies charitable giving while ensuring donors' legacies are preserved and effectively managed. Erik added that the foundation reduces administrative burdens for donors by consolidating tax documentation and offering an easy-to-use online portal.

Nancy, with her extensive experience in the nonprofit sector, emphasized her commitment to being a bridge between philanthropists and nonprofits. By identifying and addressing the immediate and long-term needs of local nonprofits, she thrives on making meaningful connections that lead to sustainable growth. She illustrated this with a story about helping nonprofits address transportation needs by matching them with donors interested in specific causes.

Janet and Nancy also touched upon the grant application process. Each year, CFNSV offers training for nonprofits to navigate their grant portal, which opens in April. This system allows nonprofits to apply once to be considered for multiple grants, connecting them with donors whose interests align with their mission. This streamlined approach has proven immensely beneficial for smaller nonprofits without extensive development teams.

Erik revealed exciting plans for a potential scholarship portal, which would simplify the application process for students by providing a one-stop shop for multiple scholarship opportunities. The new system aims to increase the number of applicants and streamline the selection process for decision-makers, ultimately benefiting the Shenandoah Valley's student community.

Highlighting their innovation, Erik shared the success story of the 'Coats for Kids' initiative. Launched 13 years ago in partnership with the Rotary Club of Winchester, this program has grown from distributing 250 coats to over 1,000 annually. The distribution partners ensure the coats reach those in need, exemplifying the Community Foundation's impact on the ground. With an endowment fund goal of $600,000, the initiative aims to become self-sustaining and serve future generations.

The episode concluded with Nancy encouraging listeners interested in contributing to funds like 'Coats for Kids' or starting their own philanthropic ventures to visit the CFNSV website: https://cfnsv.org/ Erik and Nancy reiterated their commitment to partnering with donors and nonprofits to ensure lasting community impact. They expressed their willingness to assist anyone interested in legacy giving or community support.

In this episode of The Valley Business Today on The Valley Today, host Janet Michael, welcomed representatives from the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber & Winchester Regional Airport. Joining Janet were Director of Events for the chamber: Kaleigh Fincham, and Director of Marketing & Communications: Blair Jewell, as well as Nick Sabo, Executive Director/Airport Manager. The discussion centered around an exciting upcoming community event, Wings and Wheels. Set for October 18th, from 10am to 4pm, this event promises to be larger than past iterations, offering a combination of fun activities for all ages.

The day will feature classic aircraft displays, a laid-back car show with various vintage models, food trucks offering a variety of cuisine, craft booths, a kids' zone with face painting and balloon artists, a touch-a-truck experience, and live music by the talented Chris Harrison. Attendees will also have the opportunity to engage in Discovery Flights hosted by the partnered flight schools, Aviation Adventures and Aero Elite, providing a unique bird's-eye view of the local scenery.

Sponsorship opportunities abound for businesses of all sizes, offering various perks such as VIP tent access, discovery flights, and promotional presence on event marketing materials. These sponsorships drive the event and provide significant value both to the event hosts and the participating businesses. Highlights of significant sponsors include Blue Ridge Agents, Winchester Oral Surgery Center, Peak Roofing Contractors, and Shenandoah Valley Financial Services.

Nick shared the excitement surrounding the new terminal and its completion, expressing relief over not needing to wear a hard hat anymore. The vision for Wings and Wheels, he noted, fits perfectly with the airport's mission to engage the local community and highlight the airport's importance to the region. Blair, returning as director of Marketing and Communications, emphasized the event's role in bringing together families and businesses in a dynamic and interactive setting.

The event also highlights the growing importance of community engagement, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Winchester Regional Aviation Foundation, which supports aviation scholarships for youth and job seekers. Additional interactive elements will include raffles and demos from local businesses. Kayleigh and the rest of the planning team are brimming with excitement as the event draws nearer, promising a memorable day for all attendees.

Wings and Wheels symbolizes the community spirit and ties that events like these foster, bridging businesses with the community and showcasing the myriad opportunities within the region. With an array of activities planned, it's set to be a day filled with laughter, learning, and community connection, all within the backdrop of thrilling aircraft and classic automobiles. Mark your calendars and join in on October 18th for an unforgettable experience.

Learn more about the event on the chamber's website: https://www.regionalchamber.biz/wings-and-wheels/

Hungry for History returns for it's third year with activities spanning the City of Winchester, Frederick, and Clarke Counties. It kicks off on Saturday, August 23rd, and runs through Monday, September 1st. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or someone looking for a fun family outing, there's something for everyone.

In this episode of Tourism Tuesday on The Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomes Renee Bayliss from Winchester-Frederick County Convention & Visitors Bureau, along with Brian Daly from Stonewall Jackson's Headquarters Museum, and Rick Kriebal from Newtown History Center to give details about the event. Hungry for History brings together local historians, food enthusiasts, and community members to celebrate the region's rich history and culinary traditions. The event features a variety of activities ranging from lectures and hands-on workshops to historical tours and themed dinners, all designed to engage participants of all ages.

One of the highlights of this year's event is the special programming at Stonewall Jackson's Headquarters Museum. Brian shared exciting details about their event, What's In Your Haversack? The Rations that Saved Winchester. This engaging presentation delves into the food rations that sustained Confederate soldiers during the 1862 campaign. Visitors can also enjoy samples of historic hand pies made with local apples, offering a taste of the past.

Families with young children will find plenty to enjoy as well. The Newtown History Center's Homeschool Hunters program offers a kid-friendly scavenger hunt that brings the history of the 1920s and 1940s to life. Additionally, the Winchester-Frederick County Convention & Visitors Bureau will host an open house that features Tea with Martha Washington, where children can learn about colonial etiquette while sipping on teas reminiscent of those from the Boston Tea Party.

Food and drink play a central role in the Hungry for History event. Renee highlighted several culinary collaborations. Visitors can sample the official cider of the Virginia 250th commemoration at Winchester Cider Works or enjoy historic-inspired dinners at local restaurants like Bonnie Blue Southen Market & Bakery and Vault and Cellar.

For those interested in more immersive experiences, the La Grange Family Farm will host a Tavern Night featuring historic cakes and cider, while a special presentation at Valerie Hill Winery will delve into the long history of the vineyard's early 19th-century building.

The event also welcomes the Slave Dwelling Project, which aims to educate the public about the lives of enslaved people. This important initiative adds depth to the historical narrative and is sure to be a poignant part of the celebrations.

With over 15 different sites participating, including breweries, restaurants, and historic locations, Hungry for History offers numerous opportunities to explore and learn. Whether you're attending a one-day event or planning to visit multiple sites, the comprehensive program ensures there's something for everyone.

For more information and a detailed schedule of events, visit the Hungry for History section on the Winchester Frederick County Convention and Visitors Bureau website: visitwinchesterva.com. You can click here to download the program. Don't miss this unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the rich heritage of Winchester, Frederick & Clarke counties through food, fun, and educational activities.

In the small yet vibrant town of Stanley, Daughter of the Stars Theater stands as a shining example of what dedicated community members can achieve with passion and ingenuity. Recently, Janet Michael from The Valley Today had a conversation with key figures from the theater to uncover the latest happenings at this blossoming cultural center.

Gina Hilliard, President of the Luray/Page Chamber of Commerce, kicked off the conversation, reflecting on a busy summer involving the state softball tournament. Despite the heat and long hours, the hard work paid off as local teams walked away with impressive titles. This local success story transitioned into the introduction of Patrick Burns, Director of Operations for Daughter of the Stars Theater, who joined the Zoom call along with Colton Wolf, a board member and the theater's Director of Communications.

The discussion quickly revealed exciting developments at the theater. Patrick shared significant strides forward since the theater's last appearance on the show in May 2024, including the addition of functional bathrooms and the beginning of an ambitious new project: an in-house restaurant called Nighthawks, modeled after the iconic Edward Hopper painting. The restaurant aims to elevate the theater-going experience, providing a seamless blend of dining and entertainment.

Not stopping at infrastructural improvements, Patrick announced the theater's first major grant-funded program: a cigar box guitar summer camp for middle schoolers, aimed at immersing youths in local Appalachian culture by building and playing their own instruments. This initiative aligns perfectly with the theater's mission to engage, educate, and inspire its audience, as he emphasized the importance of hands-on learning and cultural preservation.

Patrick highlighted the educational and communal aspects of the theater's YouTube presence, which features videos about notable historical events, such as the Shenandoah Valley's pivotal role in the 1944 Normandy Invasion. These videos, gaining significant traction online, underscore the theater's broader mission to make local history accessible and engaging.

Expanding on the theater's multifaceted role in the community, Colton spoke to the unique challenges and rewards of connecting Stanley's middle schoolers with rich cultural experiences often overlooked by larger organizations. This commitment to serving a demographic often left out of educational programs further highlights the theater's inclusive and forward-thinking approach.

Engagement wasn't just limited to the theater's internal activities. Gina and Janet further discussed the numerous benefits of being a chamber member, emphasizing how connections and community involvement can accelerate local businesses' growth. The Luray/Page Chamber extends support in various forms, from marketing assistance to grant endorsement letters, aiding endeavors like Patrick's theater expansion.

The conversation concluded with a reminder of the many resources available to small business owners in Stanley. Upcoming Chamber events like the Women in Business social and various educational seminars were promoted, illustrating the community's vibrant and supportive business environment.

In wrapping up, Hilliard and the theater representatives reiterated their commitment to fostering a thriving local culture through persistent community engagement and innovative programs. The Daughter of the Stars Theater continues its journey as more than just a place for shows; it stands as a dynamic cultural hub that encourages learning, creativity, and community spirit.

In a recent episode of 'The Valley Today,' host Janet Michael spoke with Karen Poff. Karen is a Senior Extension Agent, Family & Consumer Science, Virginia Cooperative Extension office who is based in the Warren County office, but serves all five surrounding counties. She also manages the Northern Shenandoah Valley Financial Education Program. The discussion centered around an intriguing financial tool called 'Money Habitudes,' a card game designed to help individuals understand their financial habits and attitudes. According to Poff, the game provides a lighter, more engaging way to explore one's money personality, blending habits and attitudes—or 'habitudes.'

Poff explained that understanding one's money habitudes can profoundly impact financial management skills and overall satisfaction. The game categorizes personalities into types that include 'carefree,' 'giving,' 'planning,' 'spontaneous,' 'security,' and 'status.' Each category carries its own set of advantages and challenges. 'None of these habitudes are inherently good or bad,' Poff said, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and understanding one's spending behavior.

The conversation touched upon several personality types starting with the 'carefree' type, where money is not a priority and life happens as it comes. While carefree individuals may enjoy financial freedom, they might struggle with long-term planning and savings. In comparison, the 'giving' type finds joy in helping others, but may sometimes neglect their own needs. Janet found herself aligning closely with both carefree and giving attributes, seeing both their strengths and drawbacks.

Poff shared her own experiences as a 'planning' personality. While planners are well-prepared and goal-oriented, they can miss out on spontaneous opportunities. Janet humorously recounted a relatable story of losing out on a Prime Day deal for a vacuum because of overanalyzing, illustrating a planner's common dilemma.

Another key personality discussed was 'security,' where feeling in control and safe financially is paramount. Poff noted that while this trait can lead to a reliable financial strategy, it might also cause one to miss out on enjoyable activities due to over-cautiousness.

'Spontaneous' personalities, on the other hand, enjoy living in the moment, often making impulsive purchases. While this can be exciting, it can also lead to financial instability. Janet admitted that she occasionally indulges in spontaneous purchases, sometimes hiding her spending habits humorously.

Lastly, the 'status' personality focuses on projecting a positive image through their spending. While beneficial for social standing, this might lead to unnecessary expenses and financial strain.

Poff's key takeaway was that understanding your Money Habitudes allows for better financial planning and balance. She encouraged listeners to blend these insights with practical money management strategies. Janet concluded the episode, highlighting the importance of these conversations in promoting financial literacy in a way that's both enjoyable and enlightening.

For more insights and to identify your own money personality, consider exploring the Money Habitudes game. It's a low-barrier and insightful way to delve into financial management beyond just crunching the numbers.

In this community health episode, host Janet Michael dives into the pressing issue of heat stroke, featuring expert insights from Dr. Greg Byrd, who practices internal medicine at Valley Health Shenandoah Memorial Hospital MultiSpecialty Clinic. With heat waves becoming increasingly common, understanding how to prevent, recognize, and respond to heat stroke is more critical than ever.

Dr. Byrd explains that heat stroke is a severe medical condition characterized by an elevated core body temperature and central nervous system dysfunction, which could manifest as confusion, delirium, or seizures. This condition is a true medical emergency with a high mortality rate. The body's natural cooling mechanisms—primarily blood vessel dilation and sweating—can become overwhelmed in high temperatures, especially when humidity is also high.

There are two main types of heat stroke: exertional and non-exertional. Exertional heat stroke typically affects young, active individuals, such as athletes and military personnel engaged in intense physical activity. Non-exertional heat stroke primarily impacts the elderly, very young children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic medical conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular disease. Certain medications and substances, such as alcohol and cocaine, can also increase the risk.

To mitigate the risk, it's crucial to stay hydrated. Dr. Byrd emphasizes that men should consume about 3.7 liters of fluids daily, while women should aim for 2.7 liters. It's important to recognize the early signs of heat exhaustion, which can progress to heat stroke. The key is to monitor urine color; darker urine indicates dehydration. If someone shows symptoms of heat stroke, such as acting confused or delirious, immediate actions should be taken to cool them down and call 9-1-1.

Dr. Byrd advises on several effective cooling techniques: immersing the person in a tub of ice and water, using cool mist fans, or placing ice packs on their body. If these resources are unavailable, even pouring cold beverages over them can help. Quick action can be lifesaving.

Everyone, particularly those attending outdoor social events, should be aware of the dangers of heat stroke. Vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly, young children, and those with chronic illnesses, must be closely monitored. Social isolation can exacerbate risks, highlighting the importance of community vigilance.

Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Preparedness and awareness can significantly reduce risks and save lives. As we continue to face extreme temperatures, being informed and proactive is our best defense. Dr. Byrd's expertise offers valuable guidance for staying safe and healthy in the heat.

In the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, the Winchester Co-op Market is gearing up to revolutionize how the local community engages with sustainable food sources. In this episode of The Valley "Business" Today, hosted by Janet Michael, this informative and engaging session brought together key figures such as Carl Knoblock, Virginia District Director of the Small Business Administration (SBA); Michael Daryabeygi, Andrea Cosans, and Michael Trainor, board members for the co-op.

The core concept of the co-op is simple yet impactful—create a grocery store owned by the community, for the community. Board member Daryabeygi explained, 'The great thing about co-ops is that they're owned by the members. So members get a vote in crucial decisions.' He emphasized that the co-op model allows the business to reflect community needs, supporting local farmers while making healthy, accessible food options available. 'We want to see our local food economy flourish,' he added.

Janet acknowledged the excellent media presence of the Winchester Co-op Market, stating, 'You've done an outstanding job of getting press and having things out on social media.' Her comment underscores the importance of community awareness and involvement in making the co-op a success.

Carl, however, added a layer of complexity to the conversation, stressing that farmers are the backbone of the co-op. 'It's really getting them to jump on board because they're going to have a continuous source of revenue,' he remarked. Carl highlighted the challenge of including second-tier products not taken by major grocery chains. This move could be smart for both farmers and the co-op.

Andrea and Trainor elaborated on the store's vision. 'The hope is for a bricks and mortar grocery co-op store, run by the community for the community,' Andrea said. Trainor added, 'We're going to be a fully for-profit store and will operate similarly to a nonprofit during our startup phase to cover initial costs.' The clarity in their statements underscores the transitional nature of their funding and operational strategies.

Trainor explained the financial intricacies further: 'The store will eventually become profitable, at which point we will distribute dividends of profits to our members. We need startup funds and are open to all sorts of financial support, be it memberships, donations, or investments,' he said.

The discussion touched on some of the challenges faced in launching the co-op. According to Carl, a well-structured business model will be essential. 'It's not just about the farmers; it's about fulfilling the needs of the community and being smart with economic development,' he advised.

The board is contemplating innovative approaches to stand out, including the introduction of a commercial kitchen and perhaps even drone delivery systems. 'You have to let people know that while we're bringing what we all want on our taste buds, we're also using new technology to make it more convenient,' Carl suggested.

Janet offered practical advice on maintaining momentum: 'This is a great way for people who are baking brownies, doing sandwiches, and more to figure out if it can be a business for them,' she said, emphasizing the value of pop-up events and local partnerships.

Funding remains a significant hurdle. 'We're starting with about 17,000 in the bank and 100 memberships. If anyone wants to write me a check for two and a half million dollars, we can start building tomorrow,' Trainor quipped. The co-op is exploring various avenues for financing, including member loans and grants from federal and local organizations.

Andrea highlighted the community angle, 'It's about meeting the needs of the community and creating jobs for local folks.' She mentioned that similar cooperative models in other towns have taken years to materialize, but the board is optimistic about their five to seven-year plan.

The co-op isn't just about selling food; it aims to be an educational and cultural hub. Daryabeygi shared ambitions of establishing partnerships with local schools and organizations for educational programs. 'We want this to grow beyond a mere store,' he said, expressing hopes for community cooking classes and sustainability projects.

To keep people excited and engaged over the long term, Janet proposed collaborating with local markets for pop-up events and demonstrations. 'Collaborations with local businesses can keep that excitement up so you're not having to do it all alone,' she advised.

The session concluded with a forward-looking vision from Carl. 'It's not about competition, it's about the community,' he stated. With ongoing community support and innovative planning, the Winchester Co-op Market is on track to become a cornerstone for sustainable living in the Shenandoah Valley.

Learn more about Winchester Co-op Market on their website: https://winchestercoop.market/

In the heart of the Valley, a community is rallying together to build a sanctuary where families can say their goodbyes in a peaceful, home-like setting. Katie's Comfort House is a tribute to Katie Teets, a vibrant neurotrauma intensive care nurse whose life was tragically cut short by breast cancer at the age of 26. Her family's mission is to create a place that bridges the gap between hospital care and the comfort of home, allowing families to be with their loved ones in their final days.

In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomes Julie Teets, Katie's mother, and Brandon Teets, Katie's brother. Also joining them is Micah Howard & the Southern Ghost. The conversation revolves around an upcoming country music festival designed to benefit Katie's Comfort House.

Julie opens up about Katie's life—a soccer player, neurotrauma intensive care nurse, and fighter who was diagnosed with triple-negative BRCA breast cancer. Katie's journey through treatments, relapses, and her eventual passing in the comfort care room of Winchester Medical Center paints a vivid picture of resilience and family unity.

"Katie was treated very well at the hospital, but there were limitations. We want to help others walk away from this tragic time with more comfort," Julie explains. Thus, Katie's Comfort House was born—a place with all the amenities of a medical facility but the feel of home.

The facility aims to offer a nurturing environment complete with individual rooms that open to the outdoors, communal spaces for families, and the necessary medical equipment to support end-of-life care. The goal is to make saying goodbye a little easier for everyone involved.

Fundraising efforts have been robust, with the community responding warmly. Brandon recounts how Katie's house idea came to life less than a month after her passing. Their board, composed of close friends and family, got quickly to work. Concerts, car shows, and other community events are integral to their fundraising efforts. The upcoming country music festival on July 25th at The Monument in North Loudoun Street is a significant milestone in their journey.

Micah Howard, an integral part of the concert, shares his admiration for the Teets family. He never knew Katie but feels a strong connection through her family and their cause. "Katie's spirit has made something remarkable; it's built this really tight community," Micah says. His blend of southern rock and grunge adds a unique flavor to the event, promising an entertaining night for all attendees.

Julie shares an unforgettable story showing Katie's lively personality. "Katie couldn't dance; it was so awkward and uncomfortable to watch her," she laughs, recounting a night where Katie took out a ceiling fan at Piccadilly Brew Pub. Serendipitously, the contractor they hired for home renovations turned out to be the bouncer who helped Katie back up. Such coincidences have strengthened the family's belief that Katie is still with them, guiding their efforts.

While the community fundraises to bring Katie's Comfort House to life, Julie and Brandon continue their professional lives. Julie is a real estate agent, and Brandon is a home inspector. "Our foot's on the gas pedal, and we're not letting off," Julie asserts, sharing hopes for significant announcements in the coming months.

The journey hasn't been easy, but the Teets family is driven by Katie's spirit and the community's overwhelming support. Katie's Comfort House is not just about providing a facility; it's about creating a lasting legacy for a woman who touched many lives.

You can support Katie's Comfort House by attending their events, spreading the word, or visiting their Facebook page and website. As Brandon says, "We're setting ourselves up for the future. Katie's Comfort House will last a lifetime and be for everyone."

In a recent candid conversation on 'The Valley Today,' host Janet Michael sat down with Chris Rucker, Chief Administrative Officer for Valley Health, to dissect the aftermath of recently passed legislation that could drastically alter healthcare dynamics in the community. The dialogue spanned a gamut of pressing concerns, from potential Medicaid and SNAP benefit cuts to the broader implications for the community's general well-being.

To set the stage, Janet recapped the initial context of their prior discussion, which took place before the legislation had passed. Chris, anticipating widespread effects, emphasized concerns about continuing to meet the healthcare needs of the half-million people served by Valley Health's six hospitals and various clinics.

Acknowledging the legislative passage, Chris explained that many regulatory details still need to be ironed out, from work requirements necessitating biannual employment proof to practical challenges for residents in rural areas like Romney, WV.

A crucial point of Janet's inquiries revolved around the perceived immediacy of the bill's impact. Chris clarified that although the changes would phase in gradually, the community wouldn't see an overnight transformation. He stressed the importance of preparing thoughtfully for these eventual shifts rather than making hasty decisions.

The conversation turned to the multi-faceted implications of healthcare funding cuts. Janet highlighted Valley Health's holistic approach, which not only addresses clinical care but also the social determinants of health, including adequate nutrition from SNAP benefits. Chris expanded on this perspective, linking reduced healthcare access to broader economic ramifications, from loss of construction jobs to the trickling down effects impacting local businesses.

Janet's questions reflected community anxiety, particularly regarding potential hospital closures. Chris reassured listeners that while Valley Health remains committed to its mission, drastic measures like hospital closures are not on the immediate horizon. The emphasis, he said, was on adapting and finding sustainable ways to continue delivering care.

Their discussion also illuminated the cascading effects of reduced Medicaid benefits on local employment and overall community health. For instance, Janet depicted a scenario in which a single mother, unable to access quick medical care, might miss multiple workdays, thereby affecting her income and ability to afford basic needs.

In wrapping up on a hopeful note, Chris assured listeners of Valley Health's unwavering commitment to the community, backed by strategic foresight and operational resilience. Despite looming challenges, he reminded everyone of the ongoing, everyday successes, like the birth of healthy babies at the medical center.

Janet concluded the session by urging the community to engage with their elected officials and local nonprofits, advocating for sustained healthcare access and support mechanisms. Their voices, she affirmed, remain potent tools in navigating these complex times.

Reach out to Senator Warner's office here: https://www.warner.senate.gov/contact

Reach out to Senator Kaine's office here: https://www.kaine.senate.gov/contact

Reach out to Congressman Cline's office here: https://cline.house.gov/contact/