Podcasts about Staunton

Record Numbers Shatter Post-Pandemic Expectations Six years after the pandemic first disrupted American life, a troubling trend emerges across rural Virginia. The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank now serves approximately 180,000 people every month—a staggering 39,000 more than the pandemic's peak. Les Sinclair, the organization's Communications and PR Manager, reveals this sobering reality during a recent conversation on The Valley Today with host Janet Michael. Initially, food bank officials believed the pandemic would represent the worst crisis they'd ever face. When government assistance programs temporarily lifted many families out of poverty, demand dropped slightly to around 141,000 monthly visits. However, this optimism proved short-lived. "We thought the numbers would never go up beyond the pandemic max," Les explains. "That just didn't pan out." Instead, inflation took hold with devastating consequences. While prices soared across every sector, wages failed to keep pace. Consequently, more working families find themselves unable to afford basic necessities, forcing them to seek food assistance for the first time in their lives. A Massive Rural Footprint The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank operates across an impressive territory that spans 25 counties and eight cities throughout Virginia. Stretching from Winchester and Frederick County in the north to beyond Lynchburg and Bedford County in the south, the organization covers approximately 12,000 square miles—roughly the size of Maryland or one-third of Virginia's total area. To manage this vast region effectively, the food bank maintains four strategic warehouse locations. Their headquarters sits in Verona, just outside Staunton, while additional distribution centers operate in Winchester, Charlottesville, and Lynchburg. Notably, the Winchester facility alone serves Frederick, Clarke, Fauquier, Warren, Shenandoah, Page, and Rappahannock Counties, including the densely populated Loudoun County. Moreover, the organization represents a groundbreaking experiment in food banking. When founded in 1981, most food banks concentrated on urban areas where dense populations made distribution easier. The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, however, pioneered rural food distribution—a critical distinction since nine out of ten food-insecure Americans live in rural communities rather than urban centers. The Partnership Model That Makes It Work The food bank functions as a sophisticated logistics operation, partnering with Feeding America nationally and hundreds of local food pantries regionally. Les compares their role to a Walmart warehouse, buying food by the truckload and storing massive quantities. Meanwhile, local pantries like Winchester CCAP serve as the "customer-facing" locations, directly distributing food to families in need. This partnership proves essential for reaching scattered rural populations. "We couldn't do what we do without them," Les emphasizes. "They couldn't do what they do without us." Furthermore, the organization sources food from diverse channels. Retail grocers contribute 36% of donations through partner pickup programs, where pantries collect excess inventory directly from stores like Food Lion, Kroger, and Giant. Additionally, the USDA provides government-purchased food from American farmers, while large manufacturers donate products with misprinted labels or excess inventory. Local and regional farmers also contribute fresh produce to the network. The Grocery Store Challenge Recently, however, the retail partnership faced unexpected pressure. During October and November, and again during winter snowstorms, consumers cleared grocery store shelves completely. When stores have no excess inventory, they have nothing left to donate. Compounding this challenge, grocery chains have become remarkably efficient at predicting demand. Using AI technology, they now anticipate that shoppers will buy strawberry Pop-Tarts before storms and adjust inventory accordingly. While this efficiency benefits retailers and consumers, it reduces the surplus available for food banks. Simultaneously, USDA food supplies have dropped 30% year-over-year, forcing the food bank to purchase more food directly. Although they cannot fully replace the high-quality proteins and vegetables the government typically provides, they continue prioritizing nutritious options for their partner pantries. Shattering Misconceptions About Food Pantry Users Perhaps the most persistent myth surrounding food insecurity involves who actually needs assistance. Many people assume food pantry visitors are simply lazy and should "get a job." The reality, however, tells a dramatically different story. Most people seeking food assistance are working. They're trying to improve their lives but living on financial margins so thin that a single unexpected expense creates crisis. In fact, more than a quarter of the food bank's guests visit only once per year—they simply need help getting over a temporary hump. Les shares the story of a convenience store worker who injured her wrist on the job. Unable to work while waiting for workers' compensation, she has zero income and cares for a paralyzed son. She's not lazy—she's injured, uninsured temporarily, and desperately trying to survive until she can return to work. Even when workers' compensation arrives, it typically covers only 70% of regular wages and takes considerable time to process. For families living paycheck to paycheck, missing even one payment creates cascading financial disasters. The Government Shutdown Ripple Effect Currently, partial government shutdowns compound these challenges. Federal workers, particularly TSA agents, continue reporting to work without paychecks. They still pay for childcare, gas, and other necessities, but many receive payment only monthly—making it extraordinarily difficult to stretch resources from one paycheck to the next. Contrary to popular belief, landlords cannot always wait patiently for delayed rent payments. Many landlords depend on rental income to pay their own mortgages. When a tenant misses a $2,000 rent payment, the landlord must still cover their mortgage. Moreover, the economic impact extends far beyond government employees. When federal workers stop dining out, restaurants lose business. Wait staff lose tips. Restaurant owners order less food from suppliers like Sysco. Truck drivers haul fewer loads. The entire economic system suffers. Sarah Cohen of Route 11 Chips experienced this firsthand. During COVID and government shutdowns, her sales to DC cafes plummeted because federal workers weren't coming to the office for lunch. These ripple effects reach deep into Virginia's economy, affecting businesses and workers far from the capital. The Impossible Choice: Heat or Eat Winter brings particularly cruel dilemmas for struggling families. Les recently spoke with William, a roofer injured on the job who lives in a mobile home with his dog, Cocoa. Unable to afford heating, William and Cocoa "just sort of curl up" together while he waits for surgeries that will allow him to return to work. Another woman caring for three disabled grandchildren faces $400 monthly electric bills. With both she and her husband experiencing serious health issues and the children's parents out of the picture, they constantly struggle with the impossible choice between heating their home and feeding their family. These aren't isolated cases. Across the food bank's service area, families regularly face this devastating decision. When $600 heating bills arrive after cold snaps, many choose to keep the lights on and visit food pantries to feed their families. Food as Medicine: A Holistic Approach The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank takes a progressive stance on nutrition, viewing food as medicine rather than mere sustenance. They prioritize fresh produce, which comprised 30% of their distribution last year, because they understand that proper nutrition helps people thrive. Nutritious food keeps medical bills down across entire communities. Children pay better attention in school when properly nourished. People can manage chronic illnesses and diseases through better nutrition. Conversely, when families can only afford high-calorie processed foods, they face increased health risks despite consuming adequate calories—debunking the myth that overweight individuals cannot be food insecure. Additionally, access to food reduces stress, which itself functions as a health intervention. When people live on the edge of a financial cliff, they cannot make good long-term decisions. They're too focused on simply not falling. However, when food security removes one major stressor, families can step back from that precipice and begin making better choices for their futures. Quality Food for Everyone Another common misconception suggests that food bank offerings are somehow subpar. In reality, the food distributed through this network maintains high-quality standards. While well-meaning donors sometimes contribute items like ramen noodles during food drives, the bulk of distributed food comes from retail grocers, USDA programs, and direct purchases of nutritious items. The food bank specifically prioritizes produce because people crave fresh fruits and vegetables. Although produce represents one of the most expensive food categories—often making it a luxury for families on tight budgets—the organization believes everyone deserves access to healthy, nutritious food regardless of their economic circumstances. How Communities Can Help Fortunately, community members have multiple ways to support this critical mission. Volunteering provides valuable assistance, and notably, many food bank guests themselves volunteer, giving back to the community that supported them during difficult times. Financial donations prove particularly effective. Just $1 helps provide more than three meals, meaning $10 supplies a month of meals for someone in need, while $100 provides 300 meals. The food bank's purchasing power and logistics expertise amplify every dollar donated. Beyond time and money, advocacy matters tremendously. Currently, the Federation of Virginia Food Banks—representing all seven food banks across the state—works to promote "food as medicine" initiatives with the state legislature. Community members can support these efforts through the food bank's website at BRAFB.org/actnow or BRAFB.org/getinvolved. Finally, social media engagement amplifies the message. Following the food bank's social media accounts, resharing posts, and commenting helps spread awareness that hunger relief remains an urgent community need. Finding Help When You Need It For individuals and families currently struggling with food insecurity, Les offers an important message: "You're not alone, and we are here with you. We are here to walk with you through this challenge in your life." The food bank's website features an easy-to-use food finder tool. Visitors to BRAFB.org can click "Find Food," enter their address, and immediately see all nearby pantries with contact information, open hours, and everything needed to access food quickly. Alternatively, Virginians can call 211 for phone-based assistance connecting them with local resources. A Community Responsibility As this conversation reveals, food insecurity affects far more people than most realize—one in nine people across the food bank's service area. These aren't strangers or statistics; they're neighbors, coworkers, and community members facing temporary crises that could happen to anyone. The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank stands ready to help, but they cannot do it alone. Through partnerships with local pantries, support from community donors and volunteers, and advocacy for systemic solutions, the organization continues fighting to ensure everyone has enough to eat. In Janet Michael's words, it's "a responsibility I do not take lightly"—and neither should any of us.

Send a textIn this episode, Col Andy Taylor and Rev Paul Roberts take a springtime visit to Peterchurch in the Golden Valley on Herefordshire's western border with Wales.  Standing in the corner of the churchyard, they spot the grave of a Victoria Cross winner and explore the story of Robert Jones VC of the South Wales Borderers.  They uncover the story of how Pte Jones won this highest of all gallantry awards at the Battle of Rorkes Drift in 1879, his depiction in the 1964 film Zulu, and his later life in Peterchurch after leaving the army, including his tragic death. A warning that this episode does feature the topic of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and suicide.A little later, in the nearby Boughton Arms, Andy and Paul discuss the importance of war memorials in town and village life - from the time of Robert Jones when the ordinary soldier was unlikely to be memorialised, through the Second Boer War and the First World War when such memorials became an essential focus for individual and communal grief.  The poem "Drummer Hodge" by Thomas Hardy gets a mention, along with the temporary cenotaph set up in High Town, its eventual permanent replacement in St Peter's Square, Hereford, along with a number of other local war memorials which were installed in the county between 1919 and 1926.  Kings Pyon, Walford, Staunton-on-Wye and Tupsley all get a mention, and the commissioning of the hymn "O Valiant Hearts", first sung at the unveiling of Bodenham War Memorial is explored... with perhaps a promise of a later episde.Support the showIf you like what you hear, don't forget to like and subscribe to help us reach a wider audience. Visit our website - Herefordshire Light Infantry Museum; follow us on Facebook Herefordshire Regimental Museum | Facebook or visit our Youtube channel Herefordshire Regimental Museum - YouTube.Support the Museum? Become a Patreon supporter or a Become a FriendTheme Tune - The Lincolnshire Poacher, performed by the outstanding Haverhill Silver Band. This podcast generously supported by the Army Museums Ogilby Trust.

Enjoy a bonus episode of Mountain Murders!On a quiet Spring evening in 1967, innocence was shattered inside High's Ice Cream shop in Staunton, Va. Two young employees were found brutally murdered behind the counter in a crime that stunned the small town. The case goes cold for decades. A shocking deathbed confession solves the double murder mystery.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mountain-murders--3281847/support.

Dinsdag, 11 april 1967 is een warme lenteavond in Staunton, Virginia. Larry Roberts heeft zin in een ijsje en hij besluit naar de lokale ijswinkel, High's Ice Cream, te gaan. Uitgegeven door Uitgeverij Doffeltje Spreker: Liz Luyben

Joe and Leland talk about Wilson boys winning the big rivalry game against Staunton in basketball. Wilson girls having a big matchup with Draft this week. The CFP and NFL Playoffs too. All this and more

Fair or not, we can't take the Augusta County criminal-justice apparatus at its word that there's no there there with respect to the shooting of Dustin Griffin, 42, by two sheriff's deputies on the night of Dec. 17. In this podcast, I go over where we are with the investigation, which is still ongoing, even as the Commonwealth's Attorney, Tim Martin, has already decided to exonerate the deputies who shot and killed Griffin as they attempted to serve an arrest warrant at a location west of Staunton. AFP coverage of the Dustin Griffin shooting Augusta County: Man killed in officer-involved shooting; one deputy airlifted Augusta County: Medical examiner confirms ID of man shot, killed by deputy The story of the man killed in Augusta County officer-involved shooting What's the status of the investigation into the Dustin Griffin shooting death? Local media hypes jewelry store heist, ignores officer-involved shooting Augusta County: Prosecutor exonerates deputies in Dec. 17 shooting; still waiting for details Augusta County: What happened on Dec. 17 on Parkersburg Turnpike? Family of Dustin Griffin: ‘We want answers,' not ‘premature conclusions'

Dinsdag, 11 april 1967 is een warme lenteavond in Staunton, Virginia. Larry Roberts heeft zin in een ijsje en hij besluit naar de lokale ijswinkel, High's Ice Cream, te gaan. Het is al wat later, rond half elf, maar de deur is nog open en de lichten zijn aan.   Er staat niemand achter de toonbank en dat is gek, want verder lijkt alles normaal. Net als anders. 'Hallo?' roept Larry. 'Volk?' Er komt geen reactie. Dan denkt hij dat hij iets hoort, in de achterkamer. 'Hallo?' roept Larry nog een keer. Hij loopt achter de toonbank en opent de deur naar de opslagkamer erachter.  Larry blijft als aan de grond vastgenageld staan. Voor hem liggen twee jonge vrouwen, in een grote plas bloed. De moorden in de ijswinkel zullen jarenlang onopgelost blijven tot een toevallige ontmoeting bij een rommelmarkt eindelijk de ontbrekende aanwijzing oplevert. Wil je een PodcastHeld zijn? Dat kan! Geef me vijf sterren op Spotify of een duimpje op Podimo en volg me op Instagram, TikTok, of Youtube. Of koop mijn nieuwe boek! Een besneeuwd kasteel, een vervloekte diamant, een gemaskerd bal, een onverklaarbare moord... Kom mee naar Kasteel De Haar. Als je durft... Mijn nieuwe boek is  Moord in Kasteel de Haar. In dat boek worden Joop en Nettie, het dynamische duo uit De Moord op mr. Jacques Wijsman, door barones Hélène van Zuylen uitgenodigd op Kasteel de Haar.  Het hoogtepunt is een gemaskerd bal waar iedereen als Napoleon moet verschijnen. Tijdens het bal wordt één van de Napoleons vermoord. Wie heeft de trekker overgehaald en hebben ze eigenlijk wel de juiste Napoleon te grazen genomen? Als ze tot overmaat van ramp ingesneeuwd raken met de moordenaar moeten Joop, Nettie en Hélène zo snel mogelijk de moordenaar ontmaskeren... Ik groeide op in Haarzuilens, letterlijk om de hoek van het kasteel, heb er ook jaren als gids gewerkt. Het was altijd de droom om nog eens een boek te schrijven waarin barones Hélène allerlei avonturen zou beleven. Dit is dat boek. Sterker nog, we zijn al aan de DERDE DRUK!!! Moord in Kasteel de Haar is overal te koop, zoals Bol en Bruna,  maar ook bij je lokale boekhandel zoals Boekhandel Van Kralingen in Breukelen!!!

Dinsdag, 11 april 1967 is een warme lenteavond in Staunton, Virginia. Larry Roberts heeft zin in een ijsje en hij besluit naar de lokale ijswinkel, High's Ice Cream, te gaan. Het is al wat later, rond half elf, maar de deur is nog open en de lichten zijn aan.   Er staat niemand achter de toonbank en dat is gek, want verder lijkt alles normaal. Net als anders. 'Hallo?' roept Larry. 'Volk?' Er komt geen reactie. Dan denkt hij dat hij iets hoort, in de achterkamer. 'Hallo?' roept Larry nog een keer. Hij loopt achter de toonbank en opent de deur naar de opslagkamer erachter.  Larry blijft als aan de grond vastgenageld staan. Voor hem liggen twee jonge vrouwen, in een grote plas bloed. De moorden in de ijswinkel zullen jarenlang onopgelost blijven tot een toevallige ontmoeting bij een rommelmarkt eindelijk de ontbrekende aanwijzing oplevert. Wil je een PodcastHeld zijn? Dat kan! Geef me vijf sterren op Spotify of een duimpje op Podimo en volg me op Instagram, TikTok, of Youtube. Of koop mijn nieuwe boek! Een besneeuwd kasteel, een vervloekte diamant, een gemaskerd bal, een onverklaarbare moord... Kom mee naar Kasteel De Haar. Als je durft... Mijn nieuwe boek is  Moord in Kasteel de Haar. In dat boek worden Joop en Nettie, het dynamische duo uit De Moord op mr. Jacques Wijsman, door barones Hélène van Zuylen uitgenodigd op Kasteel de Haar.  Het hoogtepunt is een gemaskerd bal waar iedereen als Napoleon moet verschijnen. Tijdens het bal wordt één van de Napoleons vermoord. Wie heeft de trekker overgehaald en hebben ze eigenlijk wel de juiste Napoleon te grazen genomen? Als ze tot overmaat van ramp ingesneeuwd raken met de moordenaar moeten Joop, Nettie en Hélène zo snel mogelijk de moordenaar ontmaskeren... Ik groeide op in Haarzuilens, letterlijk om de hoek van het kasteel, heb er ook jaren als gids gewerkt. Het was altijd de droom om nog eens een boek te schrijven waarin barones Hélène allerlei avonturen zou beleven. Dit is dat boek. Sterker nog, we zijn al aan de DERDE DRUK!!! Moord in Kasteel de Haar is overal te koop, zoals Bol en Bruna,  maar ook bij je lokale boekhandel zoals Boekhandel Van Kralingen in Breukelen!!!

UVa goes in-house for its new president… Staunton is the latest city to end its experiment with Flock Safety cameras… Now that Republicans will be out of statewide office in Virginia, is the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative back in vogue?

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Baill de Super Céilí in mben ceoil.

Thomas Becket and His World (Reaktion Books, 2025) explores the turbulent life and violent death of Thomas Becket, one of the most controversial figures of the Middle Ages. From a London merchant's son to royal chancellor and archbishop of Canterbury, Becket's murder in Canterbury Cathedral on 29 December 1170 elevated him to England's most celebrated saint. Michael Staunton looks at Becket's complex and contested legacy, drawing from Becket's own words and those of his contemporaries. Based on extensive contemporary medieval sources, this account offers a fresh perspective on Thomas Becket's life and places him within the broader landscape of twelfth-century England and Europe – a time of rapid change, conflict and achievement. Thomas Becket and His World is perfect for anyone wanting to learn more about this pivotal figure in medieval history. Michael Staunton is Professor of Medieval History at University College Dublin. He is an internationally recognized expert on Thomas Becket. His books include The Historians of Angevin England (2017). Morteza Hajizadeh is a Ph.D. graduate in English from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. His research interests are Cultural Studies; Critical Theory; Environmental History; Medieval (Intellectual) History; Gothic Studies; 18th and 19th Century British Literature. YouTube Channel: here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Thomas Becket and His World (Reaktion Books, 2025) explores the turbulent life and violent death of Thomas Becket, one of the most controversial figures of the Middle Ages. From a London merchant's son to royal chancellor and archbishop of Canterbury, Becket's murder in Canterbury Cathedral on 29 December 1170 elevated him to England's most celebrated saint. Michael Staunton looks at Becket's complex and contested legacy, drawing from Becket's own words and those of his contemporaries. Based on extensive contemporary medieval sources, this account offers a fresh perspective on Thomas Becket's life and places him within the broader landscape of twelfth-century England and Europe – a time of rapid change, conflict and achievement. Thomas Becket and His World is perfect for anyone wanting to learn more about this pivotal figure in medieval history. Michael Staunton is Professor of Medieval History at University College Dublin. He is an internationally recognized expert on Thomas Becket. His books include The Historians of Angevin England (2017). Morteza Hajizadeh is a Ph.D. graduate in English from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. His research interests are Cultural Studies; Critical Theory; Environmental History; Medieval (Intellectual) History; Gothic Studies; 18th and 19th Century British Literature. YouTube Channel: here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/critical-theory

Thomas Becket and His World (Reaktion Books, 2025) explores the turbulent life and violent death of Thomas Becket, one of the most controversial figures of the Middle Ages. From a London merchant's son to royal chancellor and archbishop of Canterbury, Becket's murder in Canterbury Cathedral on 29 December 1170 elevated him to England's most celebrated saint. Michael Staunton looks at Becket's complex and contested legacy, drawing from Becket's own words and those of his contemporaries. Based on extensive contemporary medieval sources, this account offers a fresh perspective on Thomas Becket's life and places him within the broader landscape of twelfth-century England and Europe – a time of rapid change, conflict and achievement. Thomas Becket and His World is perfect for anyone wanting to learn more about this pivotal figure in medieval history. Michael Staunton is Professor of Medieval History at University College Dublin. He is an internationally recognized expert on Thomas Becket. His books include The Historians of Angevin England (2017). Morteza Hajizadeh is a Ph.D. graduate in English from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. His research interests are Cultural Studies; Critical Theory; Environmental History; Medieval (Intellectual) History; Gothic Studies; 18th and 19th Century British Literature. YouTube Channel: here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/biography

Thomas Becket and His World (Reaktion Books, 2025) explores the turbulent life and violent death of Thomas Becket, one of the most controversial figures of the Middle Ages. From a London merchant's son to royal chancellor and archbishop of Canterbury, Becket's murder in Canterbury Cathedral on 29 December 1170 elevated him to England's most celebrated saint. Michael Staunton looks at Becket's complex and contested legacy, drawing from Becket's own words and those of his contemporaries. Based on extensive contemporary medieval sources, this account offers a fresh perspective on Thomas Becket's life and places him within the broader landscape of twelfth-century England and Europe – a time of rapid change, conflict and achievement. Thomas Becket and His World is perfect for anyone wanting to learn more about this pivotal figure in medieval history. Michael Staunton is Professor of Medieval History at University College Dublin. He is an internationally recognized expert on Thomas Becket. His books include The Historians of Angevin England (2017). Morteza Hajizadeh is a Ph.D. graduate in English from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. His research interests are Cultural Studies; Critical Theory; Environmental History; Medieval (Intellectual) History; Gothic Studies; 18th and 19th Century British Literature. YouTube Channel: here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thomas Becket and His World (Reaktion Books, 2025) explores the turbulent life and violent death of Thomas Becket, one of the most controversial figures of the Middle Ages. From a London merchant's son to royal chancellor and archbishop of Canterbury, Becket's murder in Canterbury Cathedral on 29 December 1170 elevated him to England's most celebrated saint. Michael Staunton looks at Becket's complex and contested legacy, drawing from Becket's own words and those of his contemporaries. Based on extensive contemporary medieval sources, this account offers a fresh perspective on Thomas Becket's life and places him within the broader landscape of twelfth-century England and Europe – a time of rapid change, conflict and achievement. Thomas Becket and His World is perfect for anyone wanting to learn more about this pivotal figure in medieval history. Michael Staunton is Professor of Medieval History at University College Dublin. He is an internationally recognized expert on Thomas Becket. His books include The Historians of Angevin England (2017). Morteza Hajizadeh is a Ph.D. graduate in English from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. His research interests are Cultural Studies; Critical Theory; Environmental History; Medieval (Intellectual) History; Gothic Studies; 18th and 19th Century British Literature. YouTube Channel: here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/christian-studies

Thomas Becket and His World (Reaktion Books, 2025) explores the turbulent life and violent death of Thomas Becket, one of the most controversial figures of the Middle Ages. From a London merchant's son to royal chancellor and archbishop of Canterbury, Becket's murder in Canterbury Cathedral on 29 December 1170 elevated him to England's most celebrated saint. Michael Staunton looks at Becket's complex and contested legacy, drawing from Becket's own words and those of his contemporaries. Based on extensive contemporary medieval sources, this account offers a fresh perspective on Thomas Becket's life and places him within the broader landscape of twelfth-century England and Europe – a time of rapid change, conflict and achievement. Thomas Becket and His World is perfect for anyone wanting to learn more about this pivotal figure in medieval history. Michael Staunton is Professor of Medieval History at University College Dublin. He is an internationally recognized expert on Thomas Becket. His books include The Historians of Angevin England (2017). Morteza Hajizadeh is a Ph.D. graduate in English from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. His research interests are Cultural Studies; Critical Theory; Environmental History; Medieval (Intellectual) History; Gothic Studies; 18th and 19th Century British Literature. YouTube Channel: here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/british-studies

A group of Mary Baldwin alumni send a statement of no confidence in the current president… We have an update on a Staunton man detained by immigration enforcement, and denied the right to stay in the U.S… The November election for the House of Delegates shows record-breaking numbers for campaign finance….

There has been a lot of consolidation in the process/architecture space in the last few years, mostly driven by PE firms. But why is that so, and why does it seem that there is no alternative to this business model?Back in the day there were foundations behind the companies, or they were privately held, and the only thing (besides a few smaller players you might not even have heard of) that I see are some open-source projects in the automation space … mostly driven by the decision to go closed-source by Camunda.One of these projects is SpiffWorks, and we invited the CEO of the company behind it, Dan Funk, to our little show. He is an expert in identifying organizational and technological patterns, using visualizations and written communication to build consensus around technical directions. Dan is committed to aligning technology initiatives with business objectives, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and mentoring engineering talent.Dan is also a thought leader and co-authored numerous publications as the technical lead for a web-based research application promoting healthier patterns of thinking using interpretation bias training. In addition to this, Dan is the co-founder of the Makerplace in Staunton, VA, where he established a makerspace offering low-cost access to state-of-the-art electronics tools, laser cutters, CNC machines, a pottery studio, and woodworking equipment.In this episode of the podcast, we talk about:Dan's backgroundOpen-source projects require community support to thrive—SpiffWorks aims to bridge the gap between business and technical teams; Python is chosen for its readability and ease of use in process automation.Building a sustainable open-source project involves finding a viable business model, and community engagement is crucial for the success of open-source initiatives.Open-source software is foundational to modern technology infrastructure.The future of process automation lies in making technology accessible to non-technical users.Effective communication is key to resolving conflicts between business and technical teams.The open-source model can be compared to a city with shared infrastructure. Support for open-source projects can (and should) come from larger companies benefiting from them.You can take a look at Spiff Works at https://spiff.works/ and reach out to Dan via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/funkdan/.Please reach out to us by either sending an email to hello@whatsyourbaseline.com or signing up for our newsletter and getting informed when we publish new episodes here: https://www.whatsyourbaseline.com/subscribe/.

As December arrives in the Shenandoah Valley, most residents brace for winter's first flakes with equal parts nostalgia and dread. Yet for Ken Slack, communications specialist for the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), the "S-word" signals something far more serious: the start of long days, sleepless nights, and the full activation of a year-round effort to keep the region moving safely. During this year's annual "Snow Show" on The Valley Today, host Janet Michael talks with Ken to uncover what really happens behind the scenes before, during, and after winter storms. The conversation reveals a complex system of planning, people, equipment, and science—all working together to protect the Shenandoah Valley's roads. A Year-Round Operation: Preparing for Winter in July Although most Virginians don't think about snow until the weather turns cold, VDOT never stops planning for winter. Ken explains that salt acquisition, equipment preparation, and contractor coordination happen "pretty much year-round." Because Mid-Atlantic states often pull from the same salt suppliers, VDOT begins stockpiling materials months in advance. By early summer, the agency starts contracting plow operators and supplemental crews—critical partners, since VDOT alone cannot cover the 11-county region with 150 miles of Interstate 81 in the Staunton District. For many contractors, winter work fills seasonal employment gaps, making it a mutually beneficial relationship. As fall approaches, VDOT conducts "dry runs," where plows, spreaders, dump trucks, graders, and even the occasional snowblower undergo rigorous inspection. Mechanics check everything from hydraulics to electronic components to the flashing safety lights. New operators also drive their designated routes with seasoned staff to learn every cul-de-sac, mailbox, driveway, and hazard before the first storm arrives. More Than Machines: The Human Infrastructure VDOT's winter workforce extends far beyond plow drivers. The agency maintains equipment repair shops in multiple locations—including Staunton, Winchester, Harrisonburg, and Alleghany County—staffed with specialists who not only service vehicles in the shop but often crawl under trucks on the roadside during storms. The agency also relies on dozens of employees whose regular jobs have nothing to do with snow removal. During weather events, environmental staff, surveyors, office workers, and administrative teams might be reassigned to phone operations, storm reporting, or road-condition updates that feed directly into the statewide 511 Virginia system. As Ken puts it, "VDOT is an all-hands-on-deck operation whenever it snows." Forecasting the Fight: Science Meets Local Knowledge Weather drives nearly every decision VDOT makes during a storm. To stay ahead, the agency collaborates closely with two National Weather Service offices—Sterling for the northern Shenandoah Valley and Blacksburg for the southern region—while also relying on a private forecasting consultant. However, the most valuable insights often come from the ground. Supervisors stationed throughout the district contribute hyperlocal knowledge about cold pockets, shaded roadways, tricky curves, and elevations where conditions can change dramatically within a few miles. This matters in a district that stretches from Page County's valleys to Highland County's rugged ridges, nicknamed "Virginia's Switzerland" for its long, snowy seasons. Understanding Treatments: Brine, Salt, and Abrasives One of the most common misconceptions among drivers involves road treatments—particularly when VDOT chooses not to pre-treat ahead of a storm. Ken clarifies that brine (a saltwater solution) only works when applied well in advance of snowfall. If a storm begins with rain, the liquid simply washes away. That's why VDOT carefully times its anti-icing operations 24 to 36 hours before precipitation arrives. Salt remains the standard treatment, but once temperatures drop into the low 20s or teens, its effectiveness weakens. That's when the agency may incorporate abrasives—fine, gritty particles smaller than pea gravel—to help vehicles gain traction. In extreme cold, VDOT may also use calcium chloride, a more potent but costlier option reserved for the harshest conditions. And yes—VDOT mixes its own brine in giant onsite tanks equipped with agitators. The Interstates Come First: Prioritizing What Matters Most When snow starts falling, VDOT's first priority is always the interstates and major primary roads that support hospitals, fire and rescue, commercial trucking, and essential travel. During heavy storms, plow operators may spend the entire event clearing a single 30-mile stretch of Interstate 81, circling back and forth until snowfall eases. Only once the major routes are reasonably clear can operators move to secondary roads and neighborhoods. Why Staying Home Makes a Difference Both Janet and Ken stress one message above all: staying off the roads during storms dramatically improves safety—and speeds up VDOT's work. "It's a lot easier to plow a road that doesn't have any vehicles on it," Ken explains. Fewer cars mean fewer accidents, fewer stuck vehicles blocking lanes, and fewer obstacles for plow drivers navigating low visibility and icy conditions. For those who must drive—retail workers, health-care employees, and service professionals—Ken offers clear advice: leave early, drive slowly, avoid sudden movements, and give yourself far more stopping distance than usual. And when in doubt, assume the road is icy—especially when freezing rain creates hazardous, nearly invisible "black ice." Tools for Drivers: 511 and Real-Time Road Temperature Data VDOT's 511 Virginia system provides far more than traffic cameras. Drivers can access pavement temperature readings, weather station data, alerts, and real-time incident reports—tools that help them decide when (or whether) to travel. Even VDOT staff use the traffic cameras to track approaching storms: "They'll watch the snow hit Mount Jackson, and they know it's coming next." A Final Word: Respect the Storm As the conversation ends, Ken offers one last reminder: preparation, patience, and caution remain the keys to a safer winter season. Whether you're a commuter, a weekend traveler, or just someone who loves snow days, VDOT's work depends on drivers doing their part. And if you need an excuse to stay home? Janet jokes that she'll be citing Ken personally.

"When the machinery is broken...I am ready," the last words of Woodrow Wilson, 28th President of the United States. Learn about his difficult final years as President, including his fateful incapacity, his brief post-Presidency, death, burial, and commemorations! Check out the website at VisitingthePresidents.com for visual aids, links, past episodes, recommended reading, and other information!Episode Page: https://visitingthepresidents.com/2025/11/25/season-3-episode-28-woodrow-wilsons-tomb/Season 1's Woodrow Wilson Episode: "Woodrow Wilson and Staunton" on his birthplace!Season 2's Woodrow Wilson Episode: "Woodrow Wilson and Washington, DC" on his homes!Support the show Also, check out “Visiting the Presidents” on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!

Join "Mind Over Murder" co-hosts Bill Thomas and Kristin Dilley as they talk with true crime author Ron Peterson about his new book "Runaway Groom," a cold case mystery set in beautiful Staunton, Virginia. Was it cold feet-- or cold-blooded murder?Runaway Groom:  Cold Feet—or Cold-Blooded Murder?https://posthillpress.com/book/runaway-groom-cold-feet-or-cold-blooded-murderAmerican Detective TV series: Colonial Parkway Murders:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fp3rNRZnL0EWashingtonian: A Murder on the Rappahannock River:https://www.washingtonian.com/2019/06/27/murder-on-the-rappahannock-river-emerson-stevens-mary-harding-innocence-project/WTKR News 3: One year after development in Colonial Parkway Murders, where do things stand?https://www.wtkr.com/news/in-the-community/historic-triangle/one-year-after-development-in-colonial-parkway-murders-where-do-things-standWon't you help the Mind Over Murder podcast increase our visibility and shine the spotlight on the "Colonial Parkway Murders" and other unsolved cases? Contribute any amount you can here:https://www.gofundme.com/f/mind-over-murder-podcast-expenses?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=customerWTVR CBS News:  Colonial Parkway murders victims' families keep hope cases will be solved:https://www.wtvr.com/news/local-news/colonial-parkway-murders-update-april-19-2024WAVY TV 10 News:  New questions raised in Colonial Parkway murders:https://www.wavy.com/news/local-news/new-questions-raised-in-colonial-parkway-murders/Alan Wade Wilmer, Sr. has been named as the killer of Robin Edwards and David Knobling in the Colonial Parkway Murders in September 1987, as well as the murderer of Teresa Howell in June 1989. He has also been linked to the April 1988 disappearance and likely murder of Keith Call and Cassandra Hailey, another pair in the Colonial Parkway Murders.13News Now investigates: A serial killer's DNA will not be entered into CODIS database:https://www.13newsnow.com/video/news/local/13news-now-investigates/291-e82a9e0b-38e3-4f95-982a-40e960a71e49WAVY TV 10 on the Colonial Parkway Murders Announcement with photos:https://www.wavy.com/news/crime/deceased-man-identified-as-suspect-in-decades-old-homicides/WTKR News 3https://www.wtkr.com/news/is-man-linked-to-one-of-the-colonial-parkway-murders-connected-to-the-other-casesVirginian Pilot: Who was Alan Wade Wilmer Sr.? Man suspected in two ‘Colonial Parkway' murders died alone in 2017https://www.pilotonline.com/2024/01/14/who-was-alan-wade-wilmer-sr-man-suspected-in-colonial-parkway-murders-died-alone-in-2017/Colonial Parkway Murders Facebook page with more than 18,000 followers: https://www.facebook.com/ColonialParkwayCaseYou can also participate in an in-depth discussion of the Colonial Parkway Murders here:https://earonsgsk.proboards.com/board/50/colonial-parkway-murdersMind Over Murder is proud to be a Spreaker Prime Podcaster:https://www.spreaker.comJoin the discussion on our Mind Over MurderColonial Parkway Murders website: https://colonialparkwaymurders.com Mind Over Murder Podcast website: https://mindovermurderpodcast.comPlease subscribe and rate us at your favorite podcast sites. Ratings and reviews are very important. Please share and tell your friends!We launch a new episode of "Mind Over Murder" every Monday morning, and a bonus episode every Thursday morning.Sponsors: Othram and DNAsolves.comContribute Your DNA to help solve cases: https://dnasolves.com/user/registerFollow "Mind Over Murder" on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MurderOverFollow Bill Thomas on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BillThomas56Follow "Colonial Parkway Murders" on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ColonialParkwayCase/Follow us on InstaGram:: https://www.instagram.com/colonialparkwaymurders/Check out the entire Crawlspace Media network at http://crawlspace-media.com/All rights reserved. Mind Over Murder, Copyright Bill Thomas and Kristin Dilley, Another Dog Productions/Absolute Zero ProductionsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mind-over-murder--4847179/support.

In this episode, we sit down with Josh Staunton: professional footballer for Poole Town, founder of Staunts on the Grass, and co-owner of Southwest Turf Solutions. Josh shares how an “unhealthy obsession with grass” during his playing days grew into a full career in turf management, and how he made the leap of faith from the football pitch to pitch maintenance.Josh talks about the moment he realised his football career was winding down, how he built credibility from scratch, and why his back garden became his first testing ground. He explains what it was like starting with nothing but a van, a mower, and a vision, and how he ultimately built not one but two thriving groundscare businesses. He also shares the kit he can't live without and the mentors who shaped his journey, finishing with his advice for anyone thinking about making a career change into the groundscare industry.Josh's contact details:Instagram: @stauntsonthegrassLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-staunton-74841829a/Want to be featured as a member? Email Brad at info@internationalgreenkeepers.com

Richmond Public Schools outlines framework for 10-year facilities upgrade  Updated: SCOVA declines review of Youngkin's university appointments     Other links:  The Town of Louisa faced five resignations in less than a year. Now it's trying to rebuild (Charlottesville Tomorrow)  Plan for dedicated Metro funding wins support from key D.C. region leaders (FFXNow)  Meet the man who keeps Staunton's one-of-a-kind Wurlitzer organ in tune (Staunton News Leader)*  Moton set to hold first Museum Store Sunday Nov. 30 (The Farmville Herald)*  Legalizing marijuana could produce tax windfall for Richmond (The Richmonder)    Our award-winning work is made possible with your donations. Visit vpm.org/donate to support local journalism. 

In this episode, Chad Hughes is joined by Tara Green, a Real Estate Specialist with Ameren Corporation, to discuss the innovative approaches she introduced to Ameren for engaging with landowners. Tara's experience has taught her strategies, effective communication, and the importance of consistency in messaging and teammates. She shares sound advice and is very encouraging to those who may have an interest in joining the industry.Tara lets Chad in on her career journey from a small-town childhood in Illinois to leading real estate and transmission routing projects at Ameren. She was influenced by her father's work in the electric utility sector and through his stories developed keen respect for landowners and rural communities. This respect shaped her empathetic approach to easement acquisition and project development.     One of the key focuses of Chad and Tara's conversation is Tara's creation of “impacted landowner meetings,” which are collaborative, community-style assemblies that replace traditional door-to-door negotiations. Through these meetings, Ameren was able to build trust, maintain consistent messaging, and address landowner concerns directly through subject matter experts in every area. Tara emphasizes communication, respect for landowners, and consistency from project conception through construction as critical components of success. “I noticed that there weren't many people sensitive to the landowner receiving the information. And I said, well, as a negotiator, my main job is to take very complicated, maybe scary information, simplify that in a way that normal people understand what's going on, and they're not fearing it. If I can keep it simple and give them the facts that they need to make an educated decision, I've done my job.” - Tara GreenAbout Tara Green:Tara Green grew up with country surroundings in the rural community of Staunton, Illinois, and began her real estate career when she graduated from Staunton High School.  Throughout her childhood, her dad, Rollie Lorenz, worked for Union Electric Company (now Ameren) as a design draftsman focused on electric schematics for substation and energy centers.  She continued her real estate career by earning a bachelor's degree in business management and maintains her Managing Broker Real Estate License for Illinois.Green spent the first 5 years learning about title searching and real estate ownership rights at Community Title & Escrow in Illinois.  Over the next decade, she utilized her Illinois Real Estate Broker's license to partner with commercial, industrial, and investment companies to create jobs and support economic development in Southwestern Illinois.  She served as the commercial property manager for Bandwidth Exchange Buildings, two data center carrier hotels located in downtown St. Louis, as the Information Technology industry grew in the Metro St. Louis region.  This experience in effective customer service, through quality client relationships, has laid the foundation for her continued success in the real estate network.Tara's awareness of the manufacturing and industrial processes, the need for redundant and reliable energy, and the long-term needs of commercial and industrial companies introduced her to the utility sector in early 2014 when she began supporting Ameren Illinois as a member of their Real Estate Department.  Her Ameren Illinois journey began in natural gas pipeline and distribution electric projects along with logistics lead for emergency storm response.  Over the next several years, Tara designed and implemented a sustainable railroad permitting strategy for processing and training utility, contractor, and railroad companies to work together as partners.  In 2016, Tara advanced to a lead real estate position serving electric transmission leading the vegetation reclamation program and the fiber communication installation and maintenance program (Intelligrid Program) across the existing transmission and distribution facilities in Missouri and Illinois to ensure the reliability of its infrastructure.Currently, she manages multiple certificated greenfield electric transmission projects to serve transmission utility business partners across Ameren's service territory.  As a Real Estate Specialist, Tara is responsible for planning, executing and completing real estate scope requirements for large-scale electric transmission construction greenfield certificated utility projects on behalf of Ameren's operating companies.  Tara is responsible for coordinating and managing all real estate matters connected to transmission line projects including surveys, market studies and appraisals, public process and testimony, acquisition of land rights and permits, access determination for construction and maintenance support, damage settlements, and eminent domain.  Her daily responsibilities include providing written and in-person testimony for the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) public process, consultant and landowner relationship management, preparing and negotiating legal instruments for the acquisition of easements, leases, consent and crossing agreements, railroad and highway right of entry permits, construction-related property damages and project forecasting.Tara serves as an active member of Chapter 37 of the International Right of Way Association (IRWA) for Chapter 37 and is Region 3 Vice Chair for the 2025 - 2027 term.  ---Chad Hughes | CEO, Entrepreneurial Leader, Author: website | linkedinTara Green | Real Estate Specialist, Ameren Corporation: website | facebook Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In the launch of our 5th season, Jess and Marie talk with the 2025 Grand Prize Winner Martin Geiger. Martin, an introspective and serious painter, reflects on his family of artists, how he approaches competition, and how painting for him is almost an addiction. Martin Geiger studied in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania for four years at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts and now lives in Staunton, Virginia. He is head assistant at Bronzecraft Foundry as well as an instructor at the Beverly Street Studio School and a trustee on the board of the Staunton Augusta Art Center, He recieved two Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation Grants, one in 2018 and one in 2022. Follow Martin Geiger: Official Site Follow Plein Air Easton: Official Site Facebook Instagram YouTube To inquire about being a guest or sponsoring the Plein Air Easton Podcast, send us an email at info@pleinaireaston.com. Music in this episode was generously provided by Blue Dot Sessions and Scott Gratton.

Is there a method to the madness that is Charlottesville Community Engagement? Like a complex solar system with bodies dancing to a gravity not fully understood, there is sometimes a need to break programming and produce an audio version mid-week. This October 15, 2025 edition is required because at least one of the stories will be obsolete at the end of this day. So, here he goes:* Albemarle Supervisors set to adopt AC44 on Wednesday night after public hearing (read the story)* There's also an update on transportation projects in Albemarle County (read the story)* Charlottesville and Staunton area officials briefed on ten years of regional transportation planning (read the story)* Transit agency gearing up for update of Virginia's State Rail Plan (read the story)Sponsored message: Learn to Pitch with Denise Stewart Coaching on October 18Are you a professional who wants to sharpen your message, elevate your delivery, and have your audience walk away with a clear, powerful version of a pitch/speech/story? TedX coach Denise Stewart is holding a one-day, hands-on speaking intensive called Pitch! - Master the Speech that Matters! This will be at Studio IX on October 18.And readers of Charlottesville Community Engagement get a discounted price of $199 down from $250. There's also a Buy One Get One Free offer if you have someone you'd like attend with. Enter the promo code CCE when you sign up at EventBrite! (sign up) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit communityengagement.substack.com/subscribe

Housing affordability, especially high rent, is one of the top issues in this year's Virginia elections...Republican districts lead the way in early voting...The Love Forward Foundation provides a creative haven in Staunton to help families of the incarcerated heal and grow....

This week Joe and Leland talk about Staunton's defense again proving how great they can be even in a loss. Draft dominating Fort, and then discuss volleyball before talking about JMU, UVA, and VT all winning.

Hundreds gather in Winchester to memorialize Charlie Kirk...Early voting in Virginia starts today, and we have analysis from Jeff Schapiro...We meet the writers of a new play that explores the legacy of American eugenics at Staunton's Western State Hospital....

Governor Youngkin calls up dozens of Virginia National Guard troops to support ICE… Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan warns about the effects of coming cuts to federal food assistance programs… Staunton's planners recommend allowing beekeeping in the city….

From London's harbors to Canton's bustling hongs and the Qianlong Emperor's Dragon Throne, Lord George Macartney's 1792-94 mission to Great Qing unveils profound cultural divides, shaping centuries of Sino-Western relations. This series explores a pivotal diplomatic clash that redefined global history. Time Period Covered: 1792-1794 CE Major Historical Figures: Qing Empire: The Qianlong Emperor (Aisin-Gioro Hongli) [r. 1735–1796] Chief Minister Heshen (1750–1799) Wang Wenxiong, mid-level imperial bureaucrat British Empire: Lord George Macartney, ambassador extraordinaire [1737–1806] Sir George Staunton [1737-1801] William Alexander [1767–1816] John Barrow, Comptroller [1764-1848] Sgt. Maj. Samuel Holmes, 11th Lt. Dragoons Major Works Cited: Berg, Maxine. The Birth of the Modern World, 1780–1914: Global Connections and Comparisons. Cranmer-Byng, John. “The Chinese Documents Relating to the Macartney Embassy.” Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society, 1961. Gao, Hao. Creating the Opium War: British Imperial Attitudes Toward China, 1792–1840. Hevia, James L. Cherishing Men from Afar: Qing Guest Ritual and the Macartney Embassy of 1793. Holmes, Samuel. Journal of the Macartney Expedition. Macartney, Lord George. Journal of the Macartney Expedition. Peyrefitte, Alain. The Immobile Empire: The First Great Collision of East and West. Knopf, 1992. Qing Archival Records. Tr. in Presents and Tribute: Documents on the Macartney Embassy. Staunton, George. An Authentic Account of an Embassy from the King of Great Britain to the Emperor of China. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Frontier Culture Museum in Staunton celebrated contributions to American independence from the people of Virginia's Frontier ahead of the nation's 250th anniversary... Candidates for Virginia's lieutenant governor are making their pitches to local leaders... Democrats disagree with Governor Glenn Youngkin's positive outlook on the state's economy ... Meanwhile, the Virginia Department of Corrections struggles to fill open jobs... And Radio IQ Politics Analyst Jeff Schapiro and Michael Pope recap the week in politics and state government

Free Speech and Free Association are the essence of the United States, and both fell under the jackboots of politically weaponized “wokeness” here in Virginia when a realtor decided he wanted to run for city council of Staunton. What happened next reads like the script for a Daniel Craig movie as agents for his opponents found a social media post from years before in which he reposted a Biblical passage, Leviticus 20:13, that had been shared with him by Franklin Graham.  Not only was the passage used to rally opposition to his run for public office, after that election was completed they shared the passage with his business association, the National Association of Realtors in an effort to have him expelled from the organization and prohibiting him access to the real estate listings he would use to help his clients find a home. Two weeks ago the National and Virginia Association of Realtors reversed their original determination against Mr. Fauber and changed their code of ethics to only regulate speech used during a realtor conducting of real estate business. Then, on Tuesday HJuly 29th Mr Fauber's legal team from the Founding Freedoms Law Center, a division of Virginia's Family Foundation, announced that the Department of Justice had opened an investigation into the Conduct of both organizations. We sit down with Mychael Sylvester, on e of Mr. Fauber's lawyer from the Founding Freedoms Law Center to catch up of this attempt to ruin a person's life simply because you disagree with them. Keep Up With The Daily Signal   Sign up for our email newsletters:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.dailysignal.com/email⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠     Subscribe to our other shows:  The Tony Kinnett Cast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7AFk8xjiOOBEynVg3JiN6g  The Signal Sitdown: https://megaphone.link/THEDAILYSIGNAL2026390376 Problematic Women:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://megaphone.link/THEDAILYSIGNAL7765680741 Victor Davis Hanson: https://megaphone.link/THEDAILYSIGNAL9809784327   Follow The Daily Signal:  X:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://x.com/intent/user?screen_name=DailySignal Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.instagram.com/thedailysignal/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Facebook:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.facebook.com/TheDailySignalNews/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Truth Social:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://truthsocial.com/@DailySignal⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  YouTube:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.youtube.com/dailysignal?sub_confirmation=1    Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and never miss an episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a textWelcome back to celebrate creativity - Episode 425 - From Stratford to London. Today, we're going on a very special Elizabethan journey, not into one of Shakespeare's plays, but into the writer's very own life - a life that was surprisingly simple. Who was the man who created all these amazing characters and stories? Where did he come from? And then we will look at his writings from using a fascinating form of communication.But first I want to tell you - very briefly - how I became interested in Shakespeare in a big way!One day - more years ago than I care to think - I got a telephone call to interpret for the recently built American Shakespeare Center - at that time the world's only exact replica of Shakespeare's original indoor theater, the Blackfriars.  This theater was built in my hometown of Staunton, Virginia, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Now   I had spent hundreds of hours doing rather tedious interpreting for the Deaf in the area, but this was the first time I had a chance to do something that was truly creative - and the pay was very good too. Well to make a long story short, I have interpreted all of Shakespeare's plays over the years in various cities and can now say that I have interpreted more Shakespearean plays into American Sign Language than any other person on the planet. And I am now working on an online course to teach other individuals the basics of interpreting a Shakespearean play.Thank you for experiencing Celebrate Creativity.

New historical markers at Staunton's Montgomery Hall Park memorialize the property's significance to the local Black community… Shenandoah Valley Airport will get nearly $750,000 in federal funding, approved under former President Biden, for upgrades… Unemployment claims in Virginia continue to rise….

Nearly 100 tires are illegally dumped along the Middle River in Augusta County… We profile one Staunton family who fled violence in their home country, and whose dad is now in ICE detention… Republican candidates for statewide office hold their first unity event….

How did a wealthy royal advisor become one of history's most famous martyrs? Matthew Peterson interviews Michael Staunton about his recent book “Thomas Becket and His World” to understand the medieval Archbishop of Canterbury. Thomas Becket and His World: https://press.uchicago.edu/ucp/books/book/distributed/T/bo248107940.html

Join CJ from Rainbow Crimes as she tells the story of the Highs Ice Cream Store Murders. On April 11, 1967, in Staunton, Virginia, Sisters-in-law Constance Smootz Hevener and Carolyn Hevener Perry were shot and killed while working at the Highs Ice Cream Store. While a prime suspect was arrested, charged, and tried, he was ultimately acquitted, and the mystery of who killed these young women went unsoled for over 4 decades. Finally, after the case had long gone cold, someone came forward with the answer as to who the killer really was.Find CJ and more information about her podcast hereConnect with us on Social Media!You can find us at:Instagram: @bookofthedeadpodX: @bkofthedeadpodFacebook: The Book of the Dead PodcastTikTok: BookofthedeadpodOr visit our website at www.botdpod.com

It's Primary Day in Virginia, and voters in Charlottesville will use ranked choice voting for City Council races for the first time… Residents in Staunton and Woodstock joined “No Kings” nationwide protests last Saturday… Valley parents and educators react to a major change to Virginia's SOLs….

The Alejandro Queen will bring all her showmanship to the stage – big hair and makeup and elaborate clothing – Saturday night at The Foundry in Waynesboro. On the pod: I speak with AFP editor Crystal Graham, who interviewed Alejandro Circelli, the Staunton man behind The Alejandro Queen, to talk about how he became a drag performer, his life as a gay man in the conservative Shenandoah Valley, and the importance of LGBTQ+ allies.

It's one of the most notorious political assassinations in history: the murder of the Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Becket. The story of two friends who became bitter enemies in a struggle between church and state that drew in some of the most powerful people from all over medieval Europe. So, how did a pretty ordinary kid from London end up as England's most famous saint? This week, Danièle speaks with Michael Staunton about Thomas' rapid rise to the highest positions in England, his epic feud with Henry II - including what part Henry might have played in Thomas' martyrdom - and the aftermath of the infamous murder in the cathedral.You can support this podcast on Patreon - go to https://www.patreon.com/medievalists

Edward Mandell House, better known as Colonel House, was a pivotal figure in American politics and diplomacy during World War I, serving as President Woodrow Wilson's closest advisor and confidant from 1913 to 1919. A wealthy Texan, House was a skilled political operator who shunned public office but wielded immense influence behind the scenes. His role during World War I was particularly significant in shaping U.S. foreign policy and Wilson's vision for peace. To discuss House, the World War I Podcast hosted Andrew Phillips, Curator at the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum in Staunton, VA.Part 2 of 2Listen to Part I.Learn more about the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum.Have a comment about this episode? Send us a text message! (Note: we can read texts, but we cannot respond.) Follow us: Twitter: @MacArthur1880 Amanda Williams on Twitter: @AEWilliamsClark Facebook/Instagram: @MacArthurMemorial www.macarthurmemorial.org

Edward Mandell House, better known as Colonel House, was a pivotal figure in American politics and diplomacy during World War I, serving as President Woodrow Wilson's closest advisor and confidant from 1913 to 1919. A wealthy Texan, House was a skilled political operator who shunned public office but wielded immense influence behind the scenes. His role during World War I was particularly significant in shaping U.S. foreign policy and Wilson's vision for peace. To discuss House, the World War I Podcast hosted Andrew Phillips, Curator at the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum in Staunton, VA.Part I of 2Learn more about the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum.Have a comment about this episode? Send us a text message! (Note: we can read texts, but we cannot respond.) Follow us: Twitter: @MacArthur1880 Amanda Williams on Twitter: @AEWilliamsClark Facebook/Instagram: @MacArthurMemorial www.macarthurmemorial.org

Send us a textData drives nearly every aspect of modern life, from the algorithms suggesting what you should watch tonight to the autonomous vehicles navigating city streets. Yet in the world of finance—where you might expect data to reign supreme—the relationship between information and decision-making is surprisingly complicated (and relatively new).Professor Mike Gallmeyer pulls back the curtain on this fascinating paradox, revealing why financial markets present unique challenges for data-driven approaches. While Tesla collects millions of data points daily to perfect self-driving technology, investors working with a century of stock market returns have barely over a thousand data points to analyze. This fundamental limitation—what Gallmeyer calls the difference between "big data" and finance's "small data" reality—creates profound implications for how we should think about investment decisions.The conversation delves into the historical evolution of financial data, from the pre-1960s era when decisions relied heavily on intuition and "soft information," through the development of the CRISP database at the University of Chicago, to today's sophisticated algorithmic trading systems. Gallmeyer explains how market participants continuously adapt to new information sources, creating an ever-evolving landscape where yesterday's winning strategy becomes tomorrow's conventional wisdom. This endogenous change within financial markets makes them fundamentally different from systems where data collection leads to steady, predictable improvement.For anyone fascinated by markets, data science, or the intersection of human judgment and quantitative analysis, this episode offers valuable perspective on the promises and limitations of data-driven decision making. Whether you're managing your retirement portfolio or simply curious about how markets function, you'll gain insights into why certain problems remain resistant to even our most sophisticated analytical tools—and where human judgment still provides irreplaceable value.Show Notes:Dimson, Marsh, & Staunton, Global Investment Returns Yearbook 2025Kim, Muhn, et al., Financial Statement Analysis with Large Language Models (2024)New York Fed Staff NowcastFederal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, GDPNowThanks for listening! Please be sure to review the podcast or send your comments to me by email at info@not-another-investment-podcast.com. And tell your friends!

AFP editors Crystal Graham and Chris Graham have been hard at work this week tracking down the details of three ongoing controversies involving the Augusta County Sheriff's Office. In our Friday podcast, #TeamAFP breaks down: Augusta County: Family of man who died in police custody wants answers The family of a Staunton man who died in the back of an Augusta County Sheriff's Office patrol car on May 5 is trying to get answers. “There is real injustice here, and I truly feel like Stefan was assaulted to the point of his death,” Wade Gerencser, the brother of Stefan Gerencser, 39, wrote on social media, in a post brought to our attention by a family friend, Gary Bone, who served in the Marine Corps with the Gerencser brothers. Former deputy files $5.35M suit against Augusta County sheriff over forced resignation The $5.35 million federal civil rights lawsuit filed against Augusta County Sheriff Donald Smith that is making news today might need to be taken with a grain of salt. The reason I'm starting there: the allegations in the suit, Reynolds v. Smith, filed in the Harrisonburg Division of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, filed on behalf of a former sheriff's deputy, Dennis Reynolds, were first peddled to me in 2023 by people who I know to be sworn political enemies of Smith, whose original sin was running for sheriff in 2015 against the handpicked candidate of the local political machine, and then winning. Augusta County sheriff reprimands Black deputy over lighthearted TikTok Augusta County Sheriff Donald Smith still hasn't commented on the lawsuit alleging that he sexually harassed a former male employee, but he found time on Thursday to publicly reprimand a Black deputy for comments she made on a TikTok video. In case you're wondering, yes, this was another instance of your sheriff letting himself get played on a public stage.

Marie Staunton, Gardener

The Armentrout Towing/Old Dixie Towing guy facing a criminal reckless driving charge for driving menacingly through a Staunton political protest rally on April 5 got himself on the radar of the Staunton Police Department last fall for something else.   Story online: https://augustafreepress.com/news/staunton-pd-had-past-issues-with-tow-truck-driver-charged-in-april-5-rally-incident/ 

Whiny White liberals are complaining to me about how they felt penned in at a local protest in Staunton on Saturday. My message: one, stop being a whiny White liberal. Seriously, not a good look. Your problems with being protected from people who would rather run you over with a truck as they would spit on you are what we call First World problems. Two, and this one should be obvious: if you want to take your protest to other people and to elected leaders, you don't need anybody's permission.

A magistrate has issued an arrest warrant for the driver in the “rolling coal” incident that disrupted an April 5 protest rally in front of the Augusta County Courthouse in Staunton. It literally took me swearing out a complaint and presenting evidence to the magistrate on Tuesday to get this to happen, because Staunton Police had no interest in the case. Jeffrey Wayne Armentrout, the owner of the Staunton-based Armentrout Towing/Old Dixie Towing, was identified as the driver of the 2000 Ford Bronco F-350 with neo-Nazi insignia on the front bumper that blew a tower of smoke through a modified smokestack located in the bed of the truck, then drove at a high rate of speed and squealed tires past the rally site on West Johnson Street around 12:40 p.m. on April 5.   Story link: click here.