Blue Ridge Area Food Bank: Heat or Eat

blue ridge area food bank heat or eat pod

With the holiday season in full swing, many of us are reminded to give back. Yet, for thousands in the Valley, hunger is a persistent, year-round struggle. In a recent episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael talks with Les Sinclair, Communications and PR Manager for the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, to discuss the ongoing fight against food insecurity and the innovative ways the community is coming together to help. Click here to listen.

Coordinating Compassion: Food Drives and Partnerships

Les explains that the weeks around the holidays are particularly challenging. Many food pantries close temporarily, giving volunteers a much-needed break, but this can leave families in need scrambling for support. Fortunately, local organizations coordinate to ensure that when one pantry closes, another remains open. This spirit of collaboration, rather than competition, sets food assistance nonprofits apart.

The pair highlight the impact of community-driven food drives, such as “Scouting for Food” and the “Stamp Out Hunger” campaign by letter carriers. These initiatives make it easy for residents to donate—simply leave a bag of food by your mailbox, and volunteers do the rest. Over the years, these efforts have delivered millions of pounds of food to those in need, demonstrating the power of collective action.

Supper Club: Sustaining Support Beyond the Holidays

While one-time donations are vital, Les emphasizes the importance of sustaining support. The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank’s “Supper Club” offers a simple way for individuals to become monthly donors, providing a steady stream of resources that allows the organization to plan and respond to needs throughout the year. Janet shares her own experience joining the Supper Club, noting how easy and impactful it is—just $10 a month can provide over 300 meals.

Beyond Food: The Ripple Effect of Assistance

Food assistance does more than fill empty stomachs. Les points out that when families receive food, they can redirect limited funds to other essentials, such as heating, transportation, or healthcare. They discuss the economic ripple effects of government shutdowns and changes to SNAP benefits, which can suddenly increase demand at food banks. Moreover, the rising cost of healthcare and utilities forces many to make difficult choices—sometimes between heating their homes and buying groceries.

Health, Dignity, and Community Well-Being

The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank is also committed to supporting community health. Through programs like “Food is Medicine” and the Healthy Pantry initiative, the organization ensures that fresh produce and nutritious options are available to those managing chronic illnesses. Les and Janet agree that access to healthy food is a cornerstone of both individual and community well-being.

The Power of Volunteering and Paying It Forward

As the conversation draws to a close, both hosts encourage listeners to consider volunteering—not just during the holidays, but all year long. Volunteering, they note, is not only good for the community but also deeply rewarding for those who give their time. Many who support the food bank have themselves experienced food insecurity and now seek to pay it forward.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Ultimately, the fight against hunger is a collective effort that requires ongoing support, creativity, and compassion. Whether through monthly giving, organizing a food drive, or volunteering, every action counts. As Les reminds us, hunger doesn’t take a holiday—and neither should our commitment to helping our neighbors.

First Night Middletown returns for 4th annual New Year’s Eve celebration

The Town of Middletown is proud to announce the return of the fourth annual First Night Middletown, a beloved family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration, taking place on Tuesday, December 31, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Middletown Town Office.

The event was founded in 2021 by longtime community advocate Kathy Nerangis and Mayor Charles Harbaugh IV, with the goal of providing a safe, inclusive, and welcoming way for families to ring in the New Year close to home.

This year’s festivities at the Middletown Town Office include live music, a model railroad display, silent auction, a magician, children’s games, face painters, and more.

A special highlight of the evening will be a performance by Scott Christopher Murray at 6:00 p.m. at St. Thomas Chapel. Murray is a Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter living in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. He earned a Grammy nomination for Contemporary Folk Album of the Year in 2000, and his heartfelt music and storytelling promise an intimate and memorable live performance.

“First Night Middletown has become a meaningful tradition for our community,” said Mayor Charles Harbaugh IV. “It’s a joyful, family-oriented way to celebrate the New Year while supporting local arts, organizations, and community partnerships.”

Community members, organizations, and businesses interested in getting involved or setting up a booth or display are encouraged to reach out via direct message to the Town of Middletown.

For more news from across the Shenandoah Valley, click here.

 

Valley Vipers announce partnership with Purcellville Lions Club

The Virginia Valley Vipers announced via press release of a partnership with the Purcellville Lions Club for the course of the season to further serve the local community.

This partnership will provide members of the community with the opportunity to donate used eyeglasses and hearing aids for recycling, supporting one of the Purcellville Lions Club’s core initiatives in community service.

The Purcellville Lions Club, known for its commitment to community service, provides vital volunteer support and financial assistance to a variety of local, state, and national charities.

Through initiatives such as its annual golf tournament, the Lions Club raises funds to directly benefit the Purcellville community.

The organization also supports eyeglass recycling efforts, promotes community events, and helps fund educational opportunities.

“The Purcellville Lions Club’s partnership with the Vipers creates a great opportunity for us to expand our community service activities, especially eyeglass recycling, which is a core service area for the Lions Club International.” said Purcellville Lions Club President Brandon Elledge.

Additionally, the Purcellville Lions Club is a supporter of the Virginia Valley Vipers Kids Get In Free Initiative, an effort designed to ensure that every child can attend a Vipers home game free of charge with the support of generous community partners.

For more news from across the Shenandoah Valley, click here.

PWPD responds to robbery in Manassas

The Prince William County Police Department responded to investigate a robbery on December 24th.

Authorities responded to an area of Balls Ford Road and Stream Walk Lane in Manassas.

Upon further investigation it was discovered that a 59 year old man was approached by two unknown male individuals and a female in a shopping center parking lot.

The male victim was forced into a vehicle where one of the male suspects was armed with a handgun and knife, the victim was assaulted and had his wallet taken.

All suspects fled prior to authorities arriving and the victim reported this incident shortly after and only minor injuries were reported.

For more news from across the Shenandoah Valley, click here.

The Story Behind Winchester’s Wishing Trees

wishing trees 2025 pod

While visiting a Christmas village in Switzerland, Donnie was captivated by a simple yet powerful tradition: trees adorned with handwritten wishes from people of all ages. Inspired, Donnie brought the idea home to Winchester, determined to create a space where her own community could share their hopes, dreams, and even their burdens. This vision blossomed into the Wishing Trees, now a beloved feature of Winchester’s Winter Village, thanks to the dedication of Donnie, her daughter Kaleigh Fincham, and their family.

Planting Roots in the Community

In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael sits down with Kaleigh and Donnie from The Ivy Chest / The Ivy Room to uncover the story behind the Wishing Trees and the Kinder Village. Click here to listen. The conversation reveals how the project quickly grew from a handful of trees to a central part of the town’s holiday festivities. With the support of local sponsors like Meadows Farms, which donates the trees, and organizations such as Froggy’s Closet, the Wishing Trees have become a collaborative effort that brings together businesses, volunteers, and families.

Wishes That Speak from the Heart

As the conversation unfolds, listeners hear touching anecdotes about the wishes themselves. Some are lighthearted—children wishing for cookies or dinosaurs—while others are deeply personal, expressing hopes for healing, reconciliation, or simply more time with loved ones. The anonymity of the process, Donnie explains, gives people the freedom to express feelings they might otherwise keep hidden. Reading these wishes, Kaleigh and Janet agree, offers a window into the community’s collective soul, fostering empathy and connection among neighbors.

A Legacy of Giving Back

The Wishing Trees are more than a seasonal attraction; they are a tribute to Donnie’s late mother and sister, whose experiences with hardship and resilience inspired the family’s commitment to giving back. The Kinder Village, with its children’s activities and festive atmosphere, further extends this legacy, ensuring that every family—regardless of means—can experience the magic of the holidays. Despite challenges, including funding and logistics, the family remains steadfast in their mission, relying on sponsors and volunteers rather than city funding to keep the tradition alive.

Looking to the Future

The trio reflect on the impact of the Wishing Trees and brainstorm ways to expand the project, such as displaying wishes throughout December or creating a video archive of the notes. Their conversation underscores a central message: small acts of kindness and community spirit can transform lives. In Winchester, the Wishing Trees stand as a testament to the power of hope, generosity, and the enduring bonds of family and community.

Stump The Duke-College Bowl or Not?

The Holidays mean a myriad of College Football Bowl Games, with names that’ll make your head spin. In this edition of Stump The Duke, backup QB Alejandro Landers steps in for the vacationing Ryan Rutherford to play “Bowl Game or Not.” Play along, and enjoy the Pop Tart mascots and the Mayo bath!

Leesburg Police Investigating Larceny at AT&T Store

Loudoun County Sheriff's Office/LCSO

The Leesburg Police Department is investigating a larceny that occurred Tuesday afternoon at the AT&T Store located at 1604 Village Market Boulevard in Leesburg.

At approximately 3:30 p.m. on December 23, a male entered the store and used a tool to cut the security cables attached to merchandise, then fled the store.

The suspect is described as a Black male wearing a black jacket with a logo on the left chest, blue jeans, and a white mask.

The investigation is ongoing.

For more news from across the Shenandoah Valley, click here.

Apple Blossom announces Events for New Year’s in Winchester

Shenandoah Apple Blossom reports by email on events happening for New Years Eve across Winchester.

Throughout the day on New Year’s Eve, visitors can enjoy several events at local area museums including Museum of The Shenandoah Valley and The Discovery Museum with celebrations to ring in the New Year.

There will be a Neon Lights and Laser Show on the Old Town Mall at the Civil War Museum as well as numerous street performers along the walking mall and the traditional Apple Drop at midnight.

Parking in Old Town Winchester on New Year’s Eve and Day is free of charge.

For more news from across the Shenandoah Valley, click here.

 

Governor and First Lady Youngkin celebrate official portrait

Governor and First Lady Youngkin celebrated the recent completion of the Governor’s official portrait.

The portrait was painted by Virginia artist Jonathan Linton.

Governor Youngkin’s portrait will be displayed on the third floor of the Virginia State Capitol in the Governor’s Gallery along with sixteen previous predecessors.

Part of the rotation of portraits, Governor Youngkin’s portrait will hang in the Governor’s Gallery for 60 years before being rotated out and placed at the Library of Virginia for permanent preservation. 

For more news from across the Shenandoah Valley, click here.