News Maker Joanne Koszyk on an opportunity for IT education and more

If you know of a high school student interested in IT an opportunity that falls under the umbrella of Front Royal Warren C-CAP is available.

We spoke with C-CAP Executive Director Joanne Koszyk about it and more in our latest news maker.

News makers are sponsored by Warren County.

Experience Warren County Where History, Nature, and Family Come Together.

Joanne tells us that there are a limited number of slots open for this IT course at Samuels Public Library.

She also tells us that thanks to the community’s effort from the November Camping for Hunger campaign C-CAP is well prepared for the tough winter season.

Joanne also tells us of a new collaboration between the Hunters for the Hungry and other organizations in the area to help in the never ending struggle to help those in need.

Click here for Joanne’s latest news maker.

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

Summit Events: More Than Weddings

summit events pod
A Vision Beyond the Turntables

When Ben Savory, owner of Summit Events, last joined Janet Michael on The Valley Today in March 2024, he had just been named Entrepreneur of the Year by the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber. Fast forward to 2026, and Ben’s journey is a testament to what happens when ambition meets community spirit. In their latest conversation –  click here to listen – Janet and Ben explore how Summit Events has evolved from a one-man DJ operation into a multifaceted event powerhouse, all while keeping people and purpose at the heart of its mission.

Building a Team, Building a Legacy

Ben reflects on the early days, when winning an award felt like a pinnacle. However, he quickly realized it was just the beginning. Rather than resting on his laurels, Ben set out to grow Summit Events into something bigger. He shares how the company has expanded to include four full-time and two part-time staff, plus a network of contractors and live musicians. This growth, he explains, enables him to balance his professional ambitions with family life and create a workplace where collaboration and fun go hand in hand.

More Than Just Music

Transitioning from DJ gigs to full-scale event production, Summit Events now offers a wide array of services. Ben details how the company provides everything from sound support for intimate gatherings to full AV setups for conferences, as well as photo booths, lighting, and even live musicians. He emphasizes that Summit’s approach is about elevating every event—no matter the size—by tailoring experiences to each client’s vision. The company’s “no surprises” philosophy ensures that every detail is planned, leaving nothing to chance on a client’s big day.

Community at the Core

What truly sets Summit Events apart is its commitment to community. Ben describes how the company donates significant services to nonprofits and local organizations, supporting events like the NAACP’s Juneteenth celebration and United Way’s Day of Caring. This spirit of giving back, he says, is woven into the fabric of Summit’s business model. The team’s willingness to help builds lasting relationships and a reputation for reliability.

Expanding Horizons

Looking ahead, Ben reveals exciting plans for Summit Events. The company is opening a new office in Leesburg and expanding its reach to Charlottesville, Virginia Beach, and beyond. Additionally, Ben is launching the Summit Collective, a curated network of unique event experiences—from fire dancers to live watercolor artists—to connect clients with extraordinary talent across the region.

A Celebration of Growth

As the conversation wraps up, Janet and Ben reflect on the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and staying true to one’s values. Ben’s story is a powerful reminder that success is not just about business growth, but about making a positive impact on people and communities. With Summit Events, every celebration becomes an opportunity to bring people together, create memories, and give back.

For more information about Summit Events and their expanding services, visit @SummitEventsCo on social media or reach out to Ben directly at ben@summiteventsco.com.

Child predator arrested in Strasburg

Strasburg Police Department logo

A child solicitation arrest in Strasburg is drawing significant attention online after a self-described “sting” group caught the incident on camera.

The group “Predator Poachers” contacted the Strasburg Police Department (SPD), claiming they were tracking an alleged predator in town.

Officers met the group at the 7-11 on Washington and Massanutten Streets and detained Harvey Palmer.

Palmer was arrested and charged with child solicitation.

While the “Predator Poachers” group has already posted video of the encounter to their Facebook page.

The SPD has no affiliation with the group nor control over their output. 

 Detectives say the investigation is still very active and more charges could be filed as they review evidence from Palmer’s phone.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Strasburg Police Department at 540-465-5230.

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

Brush fire scorches WV State Park

West Virginia state seal. Used by written permission by Chief Deputy and Chief of Staff of West Virginia Chuck Flannery

A fast-moving brush fire that scorched 4 acres at Cacapon Resort State Park after a dangerous battle against the elements on New Year’s Eve.

The fire broke out on December 30  in difficult terrain, fueled by powerful wind gusts reaching up to 55 miles per hour.

According to the Washington County Division of Emergency Services Firefighters faced extreme conditions as the wind pushed flames through thick brush.

A coordinated effort between volunteer crews from West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland stopped the fire before it could spread further.

Officials have confirmed the blaze was sparked by downed power lines.

Crews remained on-site overnight to cut containment lines and douse hot spots to prevent a reignition.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

State park officials say the incident is a stark reminder of how quickly conditions can turn dangerous during high-wind events.

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

VSP unveil new inspection stickers

As the calendar turns to 2026, Virginia drivers will notice a fresh look on their windshields.

The Virginia State Police (VSP) have officially transitioned to a new blue safety inspection sticker for vehicles passing inspection this year.

While the blue decals carry over the high-tech anti-counterfeiting features introduced last year.

The most significant update for 2026 actually involves the vehicles that don’t pass.

The traditional pink “rejection” stickers are being retired in favor of a new white design.

These new rejection stickers feature a much stronger adhesive to ensure they stay put throughout the 15-day grace period.

VSP noted that older versions often peeled off too easily.

The new white stickers are designed that they must be physically scraped off once the vehicle finally passes.

The department now uses one orange sticker design for all small vehicles, motorcycles, and trailers.

By making stickers harder to forge and easier to track, the state aims to ensure all vehicles are vetted by qualified professionals.

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

History with the Hills Podcast – Riverton Village

Nestled at the northern edge of Front Royal, Virginia, where the North and South Forks of the majestic Shenandoah River converge, lies a hidden gem of history and architecture: the Riverton Historic District.

Once considered Front Royal’s twin city, learn what made it great in our history.

 

https://theriver953.com/podcast/riverton-village/

Democratizing Philanthropy: How Giving Circles Empower Our Community

uwnsv giving circles pod
A Fresh Start for Philanthropy in the Valley

As the calendar turns to 2026, United Way of Northern Shenandoah Valley (UWNSV) is charting an ambitious course for community engagement and philanthropy. In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael sat down with UWNSV CEO Andy Gail to discuss the organization’s evolving mission, innovative giving models, and the vital role of collaboration in addressing local needs. Click here to listen.

Pillars of Progress: United Way’s Guiding Principles

At the heart of United Way’s strategy are four foundational pillars: healthy communities, youth opportunities, financial stability, and community resiliency. Andy explains that these pillars, distilled from United Way Worldwide’s research and best practices, serve as a roadmap for local chapters. They ensure that every initiative—from healthcare access to disaster preparedness—addresses both immediate challenges and long-term community well-being. “It’s a nice balance for both,” Andy notes, “and we can get specific to what’s happening and what we’re seeing in our communities.”

Collaboration Over Competition: The New Nonprofit Mindset

Gone are the days of nonprofits guarding their resources in isolation. Today, organizations recognize the power of partnership. Andy and Janet reflect on how United Way acts as a central hub, bringing together nonprofits, businesses, and individuals to maximize impact. By pooling resources and expertise, the region’s nonprofits can tackle complex issues more effectively. “If we put our piles together, we can serve even more people and maybe solve a problem so that we don’t have to keep addressing it on a regular basis,” Janet observes.

Introducing Giving Circles: Democratizing Philanthropy

One of the most exciting developments for 2026 is the launch of Giving Circles—innovative groups that empower individuals and small businesses to pool their donations and collectively decide how to allocate funds. The Small Business 365 circle, for example, invites local entrepreneurs to contribute as little as a dollar a day, network with peers, and make a tangible difference in the community. Meanwhile, Women United offers a platform for women to support causes they’re passionate about, from mentorship to empowering girls and women in the region.

Andy emphasizes that these circles are about more than just writing checks. They foster engagement, education, and a sense of ownership among participants. “It’s our impact grant model, but done on a micro level,” he explains, “for those that aren’t giving in the workplace, those that don’t have a workplace, those that want to see their money multiplied.”

Maximizing Impact: Grants, Partnerships, and Year-Round Giving

The conversation also highlights United Way’s expertise in securing and distributing grants. By leveraging its credibility and donor base, UWNSV can access funding that individual nonprofits might not qualify for on their own. This approach has already yielded impressive results, such as a $100,000 grant that helped over 2,700 families in the southern region.

Importantly, Andy and Janet urge listeners to think beyond traditional end-of-year giving. Needs persist throughout the year, and even small, regular donations can add up to significant change. “The need doesn’t stop,” Andy reminds the audience. “Numbers are scale… if a thousand people give a hundred bucks, we have lots of ways to do it.”

Looking Ahead: A Vibrant, Resilient Community

As United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley celebrates its 80th anniversary, the organization is more committed than ever to fostering a culture of generosity, collaboration, and innovation. With new giving models, a focus on collective action, and a deep understanding of local needs, UWNSV is poised to lead the region into a new era of community impact.

For more information on joining a Giving Circle or supporting United Way’s mission, visit unitedwaynsv.org and follow them on social media for updates on upcoming events and initiatives.

Arrest made in attempted BE

lorenzo wheeler homicide

In the final days of 2025, a series of commercial burglaries unsettled the local business community in Winchester, Virginia.

On December 22, 2025, a call to Jubal Early Drive and Featherbed Lane prompted Winchester Police to begin their investigation.

Multiple businesses reported that their premises had been compromised or targeted.

Following an intensive investigation by both patrol officers and detectives, authorities identified Andy Milgrim as the primary suspect.

The evidence gathered was sufficient to secure warrants for statutory burglary with the intent to commit larceny, as well as attempted breaking and entering.

The pursuit of Milgrim lasted eight days and spanned across county lines.

On December 30, the investigation reached its conclusion in Front Royal.

The arrest was a collaborative effort, involving the Front Royal Police Department and the Northwest Regional Drug and Gang Task Force.

This partnership underscores the importance of regional task forces in tracking suspects who move between jurisdictions to evade capture.

Milgrim was transported to the RSW Regional Jail following his arrest.

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

 

Lynchburg PD confirms death

News to know valley graphic created by Royal Broadcasting employee Brooke Greene used by permission

The Lynchburg Police Department has confirmed that 38 year old Orlando T. Harding passed away on Monday at Lynchburg General Hospital.

The incident began just after noon on December 24th, when officers responded to a reported assault on the five-hundred block of Fifth Street.

Police say that while attempting to take Harding into custody, a struggle broke out.

Officers deployed a Taser, but they report Harding continued to resist.

A short time later, Harding went into cardiac arrest.

Officers on the scene performed life-saving measures and were able to regain a pulse before he was transported to the hospital.

He remained under medical care for six days before succumbing to his injuries.

Per department policy, the Virginia State Police have taken over the investigation into the death.

Lynchburg Police say they will conduct their own internal review to ensure all protocols were followed.

Authorities are still looking for information regarding the initial assault.

If you know anything, you are asked to call Lynchburg Police or submit an anonymous tip through Central Virginia Crime Stoppers at (888) 798-5900.

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

NPS highlights the health benefits of being outside

If you’re looking for a New Year’s resolution that actually sticks, you might want to head for the nearest trailhead.

The National Park Service (NPS) cites many of the health benefits about the “nature prescription,” and the science shows that getting outdoors does much more than just clear your head, it actually re-wires your body and brain.

New data suggests that just twenty minutes in a park can sharpen a child’s focus enough to reduce the need for ADHD/ADD medications, while for adults, a simple nature walk significantly boosts memory and cognitive function.

It turns out that exercising in the fresh air provides a much bigger health “bang for your buck” than a session at the gym.

In fact, just thirty minutes of green space can lower your blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and even kickstart your immune system to help fight off chronic diseases.

But the benefits aren’t just physical; they’re deeply mental. Scientists found that listening to birdsong or smelling the natural aromas of the woods can drop stress hormones like cortisol by fifteen percent.

Whether it’s a five-minute stroll to boost your mood or living near a park to lower long-term anxiety, nature seems to be the ultimate productivity hack.

From better performance at work to stronger ties within our neighborhoods, the message is clear: getting outside isn’t just a hobby, it’s essential healthcare.

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