Breakfast With Barry Lee

This week, Barry's daughter Brooke joins him to reminisce about a spring day in 2024 when a 'lost' party balloon found it's way to their woods.  The message on the balloon left them both with the question:  "What are the odds?" 

This week, all the talk is about an anonymous angel, who upon diagnosis of stage 4 cancer, was given months to live.  After nearly 10 years of treatments and a miraculous recovery, she created The Angel Trust to assist cancer patients undergoing treatment with emergency help with things like their mortgage, car repairs or utility bills.  Barry's guest to tell the 'angel's' story is Jenny Grooms, Executive Director of Valley Health Foundations. www.valleyhealthlink.com/giving (look for Angel Trust)  

On this episode Barry reflects on his move back to Virginia in 1977 and boarding with his Aunt Louise.  Some of the 'life-lessons' he observed living under her roof for a year and a half are shared with love and humor.

After nearly 39 years of marriage, Barry and his wife find their 'Real ID' on a lunch date at the DMV.  The fun begins when the clerk, and some of the patrons give advice on fixing Barry's wayward hair for the picture!   

On this episode Barry reconnects with an old friend, Gary Carroll, a musician and songwriter who comes from a very musical family.  Gary has a distant cousin who was a member of NSYNC and a songwriter on his father's side that wrote the song ..."By the sea, by the sea, by the beautiful sea".  Gary shares many personal stories including his inspiring comeback after a stroke in 2023. Follow Gary Carroll on Facebook, become a 'friend' and follow his new releases and performing schedule.    

A double feature on this week's episode: Amanda Whitson and Sandra Bloom of the Housing Coalition of Northern Shenandoah Valley discuss the 7th Annual Housing Summit:  Economics of Housing, Escaping The Housing Trap.  The free event is May 23rd, 8:30 to 2:30 at the Laurel Ridge Community College in Middletown.  The summit features guest speakers, a local growth panel, breakout sessions and breakfast and lunch (please register on The Housing Coalition of NSV Facebook page). On the second half of the show, Louise Garrett shares the info of the upcoming James Wood High School Class of 1975 50th Reunion on Sept. 13th at West Oaks Farm Market.  Louise's email for questions:  lgsw@shentel.net    

Amy McFarland was a community treasure who despite her medical issues and physical challenges, spread joy and a love for people and animals.  Her dream was to one day open a shelter for homeless animals, but sadly, Amy passed away in July of 2023.  Amy's mom, Mary McFarland, with the help of friends and community, is organizing a fundraiser walk for the Winchester Area SPCA to carry on Amy's legacy of love and kindness.  Joining Mary on the interview are Minda McCabe and Stacy Leach. On the second half of the show, Jay Keffer reminds the community that Saturday, May 10th is the Stamp Out Hunger Letter Carrier Food Drive to help local food pantries.  

It's Apple Blossom Week and Barry celebrates a 'pink and green' podcast with Sabra Veach, a long-time fan, volunteer and Vice President with the Festival.  Sabra shares her memories of marching in the parades with the Handley Band, her line-up of festival outfits (they're labeled) and her neighborhood tradition of sidewalk chalk art and portraits.  Also on this festive episode, Barry pulls a couple of silly Apple Blossom songs out of his radio show archives:  'The Land Of Pink And Green' and 'I'll Be Feasting At Apple Blossom Time.' 

Two special segments this week on the show:  First, Rick Ours of the Kiwanis Club of Winchester and Robin Russell with Family Promise Northern Shenandoah Valley discuss the homeless situation with children in our area, and how the Kiwanis Community Pancake Day on 4/26 will raise funds for Family Promise.  (www.winvakiw.org) The second segment features Jeff Alban, Artistic Director with Blue Ridge Singers, who will share the stories behind the group's spring concerts, "Anchored In Song". (www.blueridgesingers.org) 

For 200 years, Beethoven's Ninth Symphony (including 'Ode To Joy') has offered a message around the world of the shared humanity of all people.  On this episode, Barry interviews Jon Goldberg, Music Director/Conductor of the Main Street Chamber Orchestra.  On April 26th at 4 p.m., the Orchestra will present a 'Concert For Hope And Unity' at the Johnson Williams Middle School in Berryville.  Details:  www.mainstreetchamberorchestra.org  

In this episode, Barry shares his concern about why his brain is replaying television jingles when he first wakes up. Also, he defines "March Madness" as the parade of insects marching into his house with the warmer weather. 

This week on the show, Bill North and Tammy Stevenson of the Rotary Club of Frederick County stop by to chat about the club's 2nd Annual Golf Ball Drop on May 9th at Sherando Park.  700 numbered golf balls, purchased at $25 each, will be dropped from 60 feet up, with the ball landing closest to the target being worth $1,500!  Proceeds from the fundraiser will be awarded to the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum for free admissions for foster families. Also on the show, Barry tries out his new 'whole body, 72 hour deodorant' and asks for his wife's feedback. 

On this episode, Barry shares a recent experience at a community event where his age smacked him in the face. Plus, on the Brain Buster, this common man's first name is going extinct. 

For over 20 years, Wheels For Wellness has provided free transportation to those in the Northern Shenandoah Valley who need rides to medical appointments and treatments.  Joining Barry on this episode are the Executive Director, Traci Chapman Toth, and Board Chair Ann Lamanna who share details about the program and their upcoming fundraiser, 'Tablescapes 2025' on March 30th. www.wheels4wellness.org 

Shelly Lee has been teaching people to swim since she was 12 years old!  She currently serves as a Volunteer Coordinator for Swim Literacy with the '2 for 2 Foundation' and on this episode, she invites everyone to the 'Pot of Gold Cheer and Chance Event' on March 15th at the Piccadilly Pub.  Ticket sales and raffle proceeds will help the Foundation provide free swim lessons for individuals and families that can't afford it.  Details:  www.2for2foundation.org   

Barry's special guest this week is 'Tim Y'...The History Guy.  Tim Youmans was the Winchester Planning Director for 37 years and on this episode shares stories from his book, "Streets and Alleys of Winchester, Virginia" as well as other interesting historical tidbits about the city, it's founding and it's architecture.   

Winchester and Frederick County Virginia are blessed with natural beauty and history, which is why so many tourists visit the Northern Shenandoah Valley.  On this episode, the Executive Director of the Winchester-Frederick County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Justin Kerns, talks about the technology and logistics connecting visitors with our area landmarks, experiences and businesses.  The Convention and Visitors Bureau is hosting a free 'Inspiring Tourism Summit' on March 19th for local businesses or interested citizens to share research about projected tourism trends.  This information will help prepare local establishments to meet the needs of tourists headed our way and to prosper. Details at www.VisitWinchesterVA.com       

The last time that Barry interviewed Abby Snider, she was 15 years old and battling cancer.  Now, 10 years later, she is cancer free and doing volunteer relief trips to western North Carolina to bring supplies to residents who lost everything during Hurricane Helene.

This week, Barry and his guest, Robyn Miller of the Winchester Area Temporary Transitional Shelter, invite listeners to 'walk in the shoes of their homeless guests'.  'The Coldest Night Of The Year' is a fundraising walk on 2/22 through Winchester to raise money to support the shelter's mission of providing a warm place to sleep and spend the day, as well as nourishment for the area's homeless.  Also on this episode, Barry announces the good news that the Chain of Checks campaign raised more than anticipated, and was able to provide 6 grants to local nonprofits.  Since 1986, Chain of Checks has raised over $2 million!  

Two guests stop by the Breakfast With Barry Lee table this week: Andy Gail, President and CEO of United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley shares his journey of serving the community, and invites nonprofits to participate in the Impact Grant Process by getting their Letters Of Intent ready for review. Jack Freeman, a writer and comedian based in New York City brings his one-man comedy/theater show "Embrace Me" to the Winchester Little Theater on February 7th.  The show is about dating and disability, is described as powerful, smart and goofy.

The French and Indian War Foundation Is hosting 'George Washington's 293rd Birthday Celebration' in Winchester on February 17th.  Scott Straub, local historian with the Foundation, shares the details of a party that includes pizza, Loudoun lager and a commemorative cup.  Scott will also be presenting a special presentation at the party titled:  'Lord Fairfax's Postmortem Adventures'.  Details at www.fiwf.org Also on this episode, celebrating squirrels, polka dots and disc jockeys!  

Brent L. Kendrick was a researcher with the Library of Congress for 25 years, a college professor for 23 years and reinvented himself as an author and blogger, and encourages Barry's listeners to 'reinvent' themselves as they embark on a new year. His literary work includes an anthology of stories and letters by Mary B. Wilkins Freeman, who in the 1880's was a 'household' name along with Mark Twain.  Writing at night, in bed with his phone yielded a book entitled "In Bed: My Year of Foolin' Around" with two more books from bed!  His weekly blog is available at:  thewiredresearcher.com  

With the announcement of the season's first major snow storm, Barry shares his frantic 'hunting trip' to find milk and the joy of shoveling snow...sort of. Also on this episode, Angela Crawford discusses the need for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) in Shenandoah and Page Counties to advocate for children who have experienced abuse or neglect. On the final segment, Lavenda Denney with the Winchester Area SPCA announces the "You Give ... They Live" campaign whereby donations will be doubled up to a total of $25,000 to save dogs and cats.  

To start off the 'new year', Barry sits down with two good buddies, Rich Weller and Jay Foreman, to chat about their "Slice Of Life" podcast.  In addition to fun memories from the 70's and 80's, Rich and Jay bring a positivity and a feeling of 'belonging' to their shows.

It's the Breakfast With Barry Lee Podcast Party celebrating Christmas and Hanukkah this week! Barry starts off the show with two sentimental stories about Christmas traditions.  One involves a Christmas morning hike in memory of Kirby Lloyd and the other involves a Christmas night visit to the regional jail from an amazing mule named Grace. Next, Brad Veach with the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival invites all to the New Year's Eve Neon Nights and Laser Show in Old Town Winchester.  The show wraps up with Jeremy Sanders explaining the art of running and chugging beers at the  'Winchester Beer Mile' to benefit The Lucas Fund.     

To my podcast family:   There's a Christmas memory that has revisited me for nearly 35 years.  I have always felt an urge to share the story, but couldn't, because it's so personal.  I consulted with my wife Mary, and she gave her blessing.      Barry Lee   

Two opportunities this week to boost your Christmas Cheer!  On the first half, Lois Hoffman and David Worthington of the Clarke County Community Band invite all ages to Armstrong Concert Hall at Shenandoah University on Sunday, December 15th at 7:30 p.m. for a fun and inspiring Christmas Concert!  The performance is free but donation boxes will be in the lobby for those that want to donate to the Chain of Checks. On the second portion, Bill Heavner of the Winchester Little Theatre chats about "I Remember Christmas", a play based on two Truman Capote stories and presented as a 'live radio play' at The Barns at Rose Hill in Berryville.  Performances will be on 12/13, 12/14 and 12/15.  Details and tickets at www.winchesterlittletheatre.org   

On the first segment of this week's show, Barry sits down with Karen Eriksson-Lee, the founder of 'Living By His Grace Ministries', a nonprofit designed for women.  Karen shares her story of turning a personal trauma into providing hope, encouragement and healing to women and their families.  (www.dancingbyhisgrace.org)  On the second half, Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" presented in song and narration by Winchester Musica Viva.  Artistic Director Dr. Bryce Hayes invites families to this special presentation of a classic that is sure to warm the heart of any 'Ebenezer'!  (www.winchestermusicaviva.org) 

This episode features the 'sounds and sights' of the season!  On the first segment, Jeff Alban, Artistic Director of the Blue Ridge Singers shares the good news about their Christmas Concerts, "Golden Light".  (www.blueridgesingers.org) On the second half, Andrew Keefauver and Onna Keller with the Frederick County Parks and Recreation Department invite the community to 'Walking In A Winter Wonderland' at Clear Brook Park, 11/29 through 1/1!  Details and tickets at www.fcprd.net 

The leaves may be falling, but on this episode, it's 'Apple Blossom' time!  Barry's guests are Marcy Obenchain Keller and Tommy Keller who have spearheaded a project to create an official vanity license plate that commemorates the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival!  (details at www.thebloom.com). Also, Barry announces that the Chain of Checks campaign to provide shelter is underway with a variety of fun-fundraisers, including Christmas movies and concerts!  See the line-up at www.chainofchecks.com     

On this episode, an inspiring story of overcoming the darkness of drug addiction with the guiding light of Winchester 'angels' and God.  Randy Dunbar shares his emotional journey with Barry Lee.

On this episode, best selling, historical true-crime author Sharon Virts joins Barry to talk about her historical thriller, "The Grays Of Truth".  The novel was inspired by true events involving one of Baltimore's most powerful families. Also on this week's show:  'Where did all the trick-or-treaters go?' and the 2024 Chain of Checks is underway! 

Retired clinical and forensic psychologist Bernie Lewis joins Barry this week to share his new venture in retirement as an author and photographer.  Bernie tells the story of his book:  "Kinnakeet Stories ... Short Stories Inspired by the Outer Banks".  Being that it's Halloween week, some fun tidbits about the 31st are included in the show. 

On the first half of this episode, Barry chats with Jim Coots of the Kiwanis Club of Winchester and Kelly Bober with the Child Safe Center.  Jim is the chairman of the Community Pancake Day on 10/26 and the primary beneficiary of the funds raised is the Child Safe Center, promoting a collaborative response to child abuse. On the second segment, Barry sits down with 'Joseph The Walking Mall Poet' who writes poetry by request for passersby on his antique typewriter.  Joseph invites listeners to "In The Round:  A Jazz Poetry Experience" on 11/2. 

It's a family adventure on this week's episode as Aaron Blight and Michael Gonzalez of the Family Search Center (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at 399 Apple Pie Ridge Road in Winchester) invite listeners to the 'Family History Celebration' on Saturday, October 26th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come celebrate your heritage, learn about different technologies that will help you with your family history adventure.  Be inspired by cultural music, food tastings, dance, a scavenger hunt for the kids, with special instruction sessions on colorizing old photos and tapping into FamilySearch.org, the National Archives and more. Stuart Scott from Richmond is the keynote speaker and will discuss family history as well as African-American family research.    

Joining Barry on the first segment is Rick Ours with the Winchester Area Temporary Transitional Shelter to discuss their 'Evening of Caring and Sharing' on 10/19 at the Elks Lodge 867. On the second half, Michael Faison (Winchester NAACP), Pat Kadel (American Association of University Women, Winchester Chapter), and Lynn Altizer (American Red Cross Winchester Chapter) share the details of the 'Barriers Broken, Barriers That Remain' Women's Healthcare Forum on 10/19 at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema.  

On this episode, Amanda Whitson and Bill Whitson (Billy Sous Food Truck and Catering) stop by to share information about 'Food For The Fight', a fundraiser to fight breast cancer on 10/5 at the Valley Health Wellness and Fitness Center.  In addition to 'talks with a doc', there will be food trucks and a Bra Decorating Contest. On the second half, Kristen Laise of Belle Grove Plantation maps out an exciting week as Belle Grove hosts the 2024 National Sheepdog Finals (over 150 dogs/handlers) 9/30 through 10/6.  (www.bellegrove.org)   

On the first portion of this week's show Barry talks with Kyle Hayes about the 'Valleyhaven Furniture Bank', a nonprofit in Winchester that works with other local agencies to provide quality furnishings to those transitioning from adversity to stability.  The organization's launch gala is October 5 at Horton's Nursery on Rt. 522. The second interview features David Gum with White House Foods and a discussion of the local apple industry and harvest outlook.

On the first part of this episode, Barry is joined by Andrea Cosans (Executive Director-CCAP), Bishop B.J. Custer (Winchester Church of Latter Day Saints) and Shannon Atkinson-Ganoe (Assistant Communication Director (Winchester Church of Latter Day Saints) who share information about the September 26th 'Community Connect and Serve Volunteer Fair'.  This is an opportunity for area non-profits to network together, and for the community to stop by and chat with these non-profits about opportunities to volunteer. On the second part of the show, Rick Miller stops by to invite the community to participate in the October 18th 'Turkeys For Sharing Golf Tournament' to help the Salvation Army put holiday turkeys on the tables of families in need.    

Joining Barry this week is Samantha Barber, Founder and President of "Reaching Out Now", a nonprofit that supports the valley's youth and empowers them to become individuals who contribute to their communities and achieve future aspirations.  Samantha shares information about the upcoming 'Junior/Senior Planning Night' and the 'YES' (Youth Empowered for Success) Conference. 

This week Barry hosts a 'double feature': Ashley Ferguson with Frederick County Parks and Rec invites humans and canines to the Charity Dog Walk and Pool Pawty at Sherando Park on September 14th. Tina Stevens-Culbreath and Rodney Culbreath, founders of the "I'm Just Me Movement" share the good news of two grants the organization received to impact community wellness. On the 'Brain-Buster Quiz', 1/3 of Americans would give up alcohol if they never had to do this again.  Do what?  

Two special interviews on this episode: 1) The Adult Care Center of the Northern Shenandoah Valley is in a desperate search for a new physical home.  Katie Devolites, Executive Director, shares the story of how they have provided a day program for adults for 30 years, and what they need to continue providing services. 2) Matt Emswiler and Josh Price relive a favorite childhood memory of the 'Hit List Video' store on Berryville Avenue in Winchester, and how they have spent over a year trying to find pictures and memorabilia. 

On this episode, Barry reconnects with a young listener that he met when she was 10 years old and waiting for a heart donor.  This month Taylor White is celebrating her 15th anniversary with her 'new' heart! Also on this episode, Ron Sheckels talks about the 'Victory Upward Sports' program for kids K4 to 8th grade at the Victory Church campus on Middle Road, Winchester.

On this episode, Barry sits down with 'Mr. Happy', Leonard Kraemer who recently celebrated his 100th birthday.  Leonard shares sweet stories of his 72 year marriage and raising 8 children, as well as his service to the U.S. Navy in World War II, and, trying out for the New York Yankees and becoming friends with Joe DiMaggio.

This week Barry mentions the 'unmentionables' ... a salute to our underwear and some fun facts about our undies. Barry also shares some observations about the Olympic games that continue this week. 

Barry is honored to have Jack Einstein join him on this week's show.  Jack recently turned 100 and looks back on his life as a World War II veteran and shares memories of the Great Depression, how he met his wife, and how he is related to Albert Einstein.  Jack's humor and spirit make for an enjoyable chat.    

Robyn Miller is the Executive Director of WATTS, Winchester Area Temporary Thermal Shelter, and she joins Barry on the show this week to talk about their 'cooling center'.   Montague Avenue United Methodist Church in Winchester provides relief from the heat and snacks for the area homeless, or anyone seeking comfort. www.watts-homelessshelter.org    

Joining Barry this week is Ali Gallagher, Outreach and Training Manager with Blue Ridge CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate).  Ali is inviting volunteers to join this non-profit that advocates for the best interests of abused and neglected children, serving as the voice for these children in court proceedings and helping to ensure they are placed in safe and permanent homes.

Since 1986, the Sinclair Health Clinic has been providing the uninsured and low-income citizens with excellent health care.  On this episode, Dr. Mercedes Abbett, Executive Director, and Jennifer Hall, Director of Community Engagement share the latest information about the various services provided by the primary care clinic.

Barry invites you to 'sit, stay', and enjoy the variety of programs that the Winchester Area SPCA offers to animals and animal lovers in the community.  Executive Director Lavenda Denney describes a program that provides foster homes to pets of women who are in an abusive situation and seeking shelter at the Laurel Center, until they are in a safe place to be reunited with their pet.  From 'Adventure Tails' (volunteers taking the shelter dogs for a few hours to visit parks, go for a ride, etc.), to the "Raise The Woof" renovation project, to a calendar pet photo contest and more, there's a lot to learn and celebrate on this episode.      

Barry welcomes a member of the 'greatest generation' ... World War II veteran Doug Butler who served as a nose-gunner on a B-24 Bomber. Doug reflects on his nearly 100 years of life in the Winchester area including 75 years as a member of the Kiwanis Club of Winchester.