Podcasts about Winchester

Step inside the velvet-dark corridors with The Boulet Brothers as they unlock the cursed secrets of the infamous Winchester mystery house. It's a delicious descent into architectural madness, restless spirits and the gothic obsession that built a labyrinth to confuse the dead… and perhaps ensnare the living. Follow The Boulet Brothers on Insta: @bouletbrothers To watch the Creatures of the Night podcast videos on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BouletBrothersProductions Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast for free wherever you're listening or by using this link: https://bit.ly/BouletBrothersPod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

emocleW, emocleW, emocleW to the Distraction Pieces Podcast with Scroobius Pip!This is your bonus FRIDAY REWIND episode! Today, we catch up with Lucy Pinder, originally episode 438 from 2022-02-23.Original writeup below:A delightful chat bringing in loads of feelgood action, with a dash of triumph over adversity in there for good measure. From her days back in Winchester, we hear about her path to publicity and being involved in the world of early 00's lad culture and glamour modeling from a chance day off at the beach, which led to a huge amount of ups and downs as the path began to stabilise. What this did lead to though is a ton of good things which we hear about, as well as thoughts on pandemic walks and rituals, reclaiming Sundays and releasing podcasts on them, the difference between fun and selfishness these days to back then, rebranding being single and so much more besides. Get involved, you'll love this one.PIP'S PATREON PAGE if you're of a supporting natureSMASHING SUNDAYS podcastTWITTERINSTAGRAMIMDBME MYSELF AND DIPIP TWITCH • (music stuff)PIP INSTAGRAMSPEECH DEVELOPMENT WEBSTOREPIP TWITTERPIP IMDBPOD BIBLE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mountain Trails sits nestled on Winchester's Old Town walking mall at 115 North Loudoun Street, where owner Garry Green has cultivated something rare in retail: a store that feels like a community. After 34 years in business—the last 13 at this location—Garry has discovered what he calls "the Loudoun Street Magic," especially on Saturday evenings when the mall comes alive. He shares his passion during this episode of The Valley Today, with host Janet Michael and cohost Brady Cloven, executive director of Friends of Old Town. Mountain Trails' move from its original Cork Street location transformed the business entirely. "The demographic literally went from climbers, backpackers, and travelers to just everyone," Garry explains. The visibility proved phenomenal, and the store has become an integral part of Winchester's identity, appearing regularly in social media posts and drawing visitors from states away. Education Over Sales: A Revolutionary Approach What sets Mountain Trails apart isn't just their inventory—it's their philosophy. Garry's mission statement centers on creating "a safer, more enjoyable wilderness or travel experience," which means the staff focuses on qualifying customer needs rather than pushing products. "We are not here to sell things to you," Garry emphasizes. "We try to qualify your needs and provide for those needs." This approach resonates deeply in a business where equipment failures can have serious consequences. Whether customers are paddling the Shenandoah River for the first time or heading to Mount Everest base camp, their concerns receive equal validation. Garry recalls outfitting a gentleman for climbing Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak at nearly 20,000 feet. When the climber returned, he shared a remarkable moment: "I was at 16,000 feet and I heard you talking to me." The boots and backpack performed exactly as Garry had promised—the ultimate validation for the staff. Curating the Right Gear for Every Adventure Every single item in Mountain Trails serves a purpose. "Everything in Mountain Trails other than, let's just say a t-shirt, needs to function," Garry explains. "It has a job. And it needs to do that when you need it to do it." From rain gear to sock structure—yes, even socks matter—the curation process ensures customers receive appropriate equipment for their specific adventures. The store's tagline captures this breadth: "hiking, climbing, trekking, travel." However, their secondary motto, "Quality Outdoor Outfitters," opens the door wider. International travelers heading to Peru or around the world find the education and experience they need. Summer canoeists discover dry bags and quick-drying clothing. Skiers find bibs and cross-country equipment. Technical rock climbers locate harnesses and safety gear. Meeting Customers Where They Are Understanding the customer's experience level proves crucial to Garry's approach. The outdoor industry's biggest emerging demographic is what he calls "the casual adventurer"—people who want to hike two miles to a waterfall with trail runners, trekking poles, and a day pack, then return to town for lunch. These customers have vastly different needs from long-distance trekkers carrying their "house on their back" for multiple days. "Not everybody needs a $400 three-layer Gore-Tex rain jacket," Garry points out. While climbers heading to Mount Everest might need that level of protection, an $80 waterproof jacket works perfectly for someone's golf bag. This honesty builds trust. Moreover, the relationship continues as customers grow in their outdoor pursuits, returning to upgrade their gear as they tackle more challenging adventures. The Power of Kindness and Experience When hiring staff, Garry's number one criterion isn't outdoor expertise—it's kindness. "You have to put that customer's best interest at heart above anything else," he insists. This philosophy creates what international visitors have called "the feel" of Mountain Trails, something that distinguishes it from sterile big-box retailers. The staff's personal experience matters tremendously. "They've been wet, cold, hungry, tired," Garry notes. "They're here to help you suffer better." Garry himself spent years guiding in Alaska and running outdoor adventure programs for the U.S. Air Force, helping service members decompress after deployment. He recalls a winter camping trip where a participant thought she wouldn't survive the night because her "butt was cold"—she hadn't inflated her sleeping pad. After inflating it and adding hand warmers, she proclaimed he'd saved her life. "You passed through a window," he told her, referring to those challenging moments all outdoor enthusiasts eventually face. Beyond the Hardcore: Everyday Customers Welcome While Mountain Trails caters to serious adventurers, everyday shoppers find unexpected value. Janet shares how the store helps her buy gifts for her mother-in-law who bikes the C&O Canal—despite Janet's self-proclaimed lack of outdoor interests. "I can come in here and just say, she does this and you can help me find the perfect gift for her," she explains. The store even welcomes those who simply want to look the part. "I love this store even though I am not an outdoors person," Janet admits. Garry laughs, acknowledging that sometimes "it's all about the look." This inclusive approach means everyone feels welcome, whether they're heading into the wilderness or just want quality gear for weekend activities. A Global Reputation Built on Local Service The store's reputation extends far beyond Winchester. Visitors from Syracuse, Cleveland, and even international locations make Mountain Trails a regular stop. Garry recalls a family from Israel who declared it their favorite outdoor store globally. "We go into these stores all over the world, and this one is our favorite so far," they told him. What impressed them? The feel of the place—something intangible that staff members hear about regularly. This atmosphere stems from Garry's operating principle: "Everybody's welcome until they're not." The staff genuinely cares, creating an environment that feels more like a community gathering space than a transaction-focused retail outlet. Social media serves not primarily as a sales tool but as "an instrument of familiarity," sharing articles about climbing, skiing, and outdoor adventures that customers want to read over their morning coffee. Connecting with Mountain Trails In mid-March, Mountain Trails will transition from their winter hours into regular hours: Monday through Thursday 10 AM to 7 PM, Fridays and Saturdays 10 AM to 8 PM, and Sundays noon to 5 PM. Customers can find them on Facebook and Instagram or visit mountain-trails.com for basic information, though the real experience requires stepping through their door on the walking mall. Old Town Winchester: Building Community Through Events Chocolate Escape Perseveres Through Arctic Conditions The second half of the conversation shifts focus to Brady Claven, executive director of Friends of Old Town Winchester, who shares updates on recent events and upcoming attractions. February's Chocolate Escape faced brutal weather—17-degree temperatures with windchill predictions of negative 10 degrees—yet determined participants still filled the walking mall with their maps, hitting every participating location. Approximately 30 merchants participated in the event, which aims not just to distribute chocolate but to drive foot traffic into stores during cold months. The strategy worked. Faire Isles, for instance, welcomed numerous first-time visitors, and overall feedback indicated people discovered stores they'd never visited before. "The point of it is to get people into stores," Brady explains, noting that participants might not linger outside as long in freezing weather, but they spent more time browsing inside. Celebrating Black History Month Through Partnership Friends of Old Town partnered with NAACP Winchester and secured generous sponsorship from Valley Health to present three Black History Month events. Typewriter Studio hosted a spoken word and art gallery night featuring Monica James and representatives from Selah Theater. Bright Box presented "History and Cocktails" with Nick Powers from the MSV delivering an outstanding historical talk about the Valley's Black history, tying into the upcoming VA250 celebration. Finally, Bistro Sojo offered a small plates and jazz night with a $35-per-person special menu and live performance by SU. Spin to Winchester: Pedaling for Progress Friends of Old Town's second annual Spin to Winchester fundraiser brought participants together inside Valley Health for a 45-minute stationary bike class. Each rider crowd-funded their participation, raising a minimum of $250, with prizes awarded for most funds raised, sweatiest rider, and highest mileage. The event exceeded expectations, hitting 120% of its goal and attracting 20 more individual donors than the previous year. "It's very apparent by the end of this 45-minute class, certain people are, myself included, just dripping with sweat," Brady admits, describing the intense workout led by instructor Pam from Valley Health. Despite the physical challenge—including what seemed like endless "last hills"—the fundraiser's success directly supports Old Town programs and events throughout the year. Taylor Pavilion: A Transformation Underway Ground has broken on the Taylor Pavilion renovation, with completion targeted for before WineFest during Apple Blossom season. The transformation will create a social gathering space that addresses a common community need. "We do hear a lot from people that say, well, you know, there's really not a space if I don't wanna drink or if I don't want to eat," Brady notes. The new pavilion will offer a place where people can grab a bagel and sit, play chess, listen to music, or simply enjoy being on the mall. It will serve as a meeting point before art classes at Typewriter Studio or ShenArts—a place for friends to gather with coffee and catch up before heading to other destinations. Notably, the infamous "ping pong table on an incline" from the conceptual rendering will not materialize, though Brady jokes they should install a commemorative statue. Celtic Fest Returns March 14th Looking ahead to March, Celtic Fest promises to be a highlight. Scheduled for Saturday, March 14th from noon to 5 PM, the event will feature approximately 35 vendors lining the mall from the south end near Hideaway northward. Partners include Ravenwood Foundation, which brings expertise in outdoor Highland games. City Pipes and Drums will perform throughout the day. Faire Isles plans Irish dancers in their alcove, while other merchants prepare special attractions. Piper Dan's and Union Jack's—recently reopened after flooding—will participate, with Brady hoping to coordinate a special menu. Additionally, Brady plans to transform the museum lawn into a kids' Highland games zone, where children ages four to ten can throw foam logs, compete in disc throwing, and win prizes. Staying Connected Those interested in Old Town Winchester events can follow Friends of Old Town on Facebook and Instagram (@FriendsOfOldTownWINC) or visit friendsofoldtown.org for a complete calendar. First Friday events return in June with a "Summer of Covers" theme featuring cover bands, including a special August event partnering with River House. A Community That Cares Whether discussing Mountain Trails' dedication to customer safety and satisfaction or Friends of Old Town's commitment to creating community experiences, this conversation reveals Winchester's character: a city where businesses and organizations prioritize people over profit, relationships over transactions, and community over convenience. From outdoor gear to outdoor festivals, the message remains consistent—everyone's welcome, expertise matters, and kindness forms the foundation of everything worthwhile.

The 19th season for Challenge of the Americas kicked off over the February 20-22 weekend, hosting two rounds of competition at the K1 Circuit. The Winchester, California facility welcomed the program for a second straight year, enjoying amazing weather for the eight categories contesting the first of four events on the season. Rob Howden and David Cole recap the action from K1 Circuit in this episode of the Debrief – presented by AiM Sports. The show begins with the Parolin USA Paddock Pass before getting into all the details of the weekend with the Comet Kart Sales Race Report. The EKN Trackside Live Race Calendar presented by Rolison Performance Group completes the podcast.

A Growing Crisis Hidden in Plain Sight Winchester's family homelessness crisis looks nothing like what most people imagine. There are no tent encampments or visible street corners occupied by children. Instead, the crisis unfolds quietly in motel rooms, backseats of cars, and overcrowded apartments where families double up with relatives, desperately hoping their situation will improve. Chris Briganti, Executive Director of Family Promise Winchester Area, sits down with Janet Michael on The Valley Today to reveal a startling reality: 539 students in Winchester, Frederick, Warren, and Clarke County schools self-identified as homeless during the 2024-2025 school year. Since self-identification means the actual number is likely much higher, the scope of the problem becomes clear—family homelessness is Winchester's invisible emergency. "These families are not people you see on the street corner," Chris explains. "The families we are helping are your neighbor next door. They are your friends who you probably don't know about because they've gotten very good at hiding and covering it up. You would have no idea that it's your bank teller or the person checking you out at Walmart." From Growth to Impact: A Year of Transformation Family Promise Winchester Area has undergone significant changes since its inception in 2022. After beginning to serve families in 2023, the organization hired Chris as their first executive director in July 2025. Furthermore, they recently updated their name from Family Promise of Northern Shenandoah Valley to avoid confusion with their neighboring affiliate in Shenandoah County. However, the most remarkable transformation has been in their impact numbers. During all of 2025, Family Promise moved 28 families into new homes and prevented 13 evictions, serving approximately 80 children total. In contrast, by mid-February 2026—just six weeks into the new year—they had already moved seven families into housing and prevented 11 evictions, helping 45 children. That's more than half of their entire previous year's impact. "Data is everything," Chris emphasizes. "Not only is it important for advocacy, but I think one of the basic things we owe our donors and society as a nonprofit organization is to let them know where that money is going." The Help Us Move In Fund: Small Investments, Enormous Returns At the heart of Family Promise's success lies their "Help Us Move In" (HUME) fund, which provides direct financial assistance to families teetering on the edge of homelessness. The program's efficiency is staggering: it costs approximately $500 per child to secure stable housing. "Maybe they need help making the first month's rent, or maybe there's back rent and they've done everything," Chris explains. "Sometimes all we have to do is help with $500. Give that to the landlord for rental arrears, and then that family will never need assistance again." The fund recently received a transformative boost when Opequon Presbyterian Church donated $20,000 as part of their capital campaign. Chris admits he "almost fell out of his chair" when he opened the envelope. Every penny of that donation goes directly to landlords or utility providers—never into families' pockets—eliminating concerns about misuse of funds. Moreover, the organization carefully vets applicants, reviewing rent ledgers from the past year and analyzing family finances. They ask critical questions: Are families missing rent every month, or is this truly a one-time crisis? Are they spending responsibly? This scrutiny ensures limited resources go to families who will succeed with just a bit of help. The Invisible Population: Who Needs Help and Why Contrary to stereotypes about chronically homeless populations, Family Promise increasingly serves families who have never needed assistance before. These are federal contractors laid off from their jobs, workers who fell ill and couldn't maintain employment, or families facing the cascading effects of a government shutdown. "These are families that have worked a good job for a long time, who have never had to ask for assistance in any way, shape, or form," Chris notes. "But they lose their job—a lot of federal contractors have been laid off—or they get ill and can't work." Janet adds an important clarification: "I think that's a big misconception. The general public thinks these federal contractors are making multimillion dollars a year, and that is not the case. They are not making much more above minimum wage than the rest of us. They're living paycheck to paycheck, especially with cost of living going up so much." Additionally, these families often fall into a frustrating gap. They make too much money to qualify for traditional social services, yet not enough to escape the motel cycle, where families pay $2,000 monthly for temporary housing while being unable to save for first month's rent and security deposits on permanent apartments. The Devastating Impact on Children The conversation takes a sobering turn when Chris discusses the research on childhood homelessness. The statistics paint a grim picture of generational trauma and lost potential. Recent studies reveal that housing instability—even when families are "doubled up" with relatives rather than literally on the streets—produces effects on children comparable to outright homelessness. Meanwhile, a 2018 Minnesota study found that 36% of adults experiencing homelessness first became homeless at or before age 18. The physiological impacts are equally alarming. Infants born the year before or after their mother enters an emergency shelter show higher rates of low birth weight, hospitalization, and emergency room visits compared to other low-income infants. These children face increased risks of asthma, chronic illnesses, and developmental delays. When homelessness lasts more than six months, children from infancy to age four experience significantly higher risks of developmental delays and hospitalization. "How do you pay attention when you're hungry?" Chris asks. "How do you pay attention when you don't know where you're going to do your homework tonight? How do you pay attention when you're sitting in class wearing the same clothes you wore the day before?" Furthermore, emerging research in epigenetics suggests that environmental trauma can literally alter gene expression—changes that can then be inherited by the next generation. Childhood poverty costs the nation upwards of a trillion dollars annually, yet early interventions like Family Promise's programs deliver a four-to-nine-dollar return on every dollar invested. "When we invest early in these childhood interventions, which is what Family Promise is all about, we help stop a cycle," Chris emphasizes. "We all do better when children have a safe place to live." The Housing Crisis and Creative Solutions Winchester's affordable housing shortage presents one of Family Promise's biggest challenges. Nevertheless, the organization has built strategic partnerships with landlords and apartment complexes who understand their mission. These partnerships prove mutually beneficial. Landlords allow Family Promise families to move to the front of the waiting list, knowing the organization carefully vets applicants and provides ongoing case management. Some landlords even reduce rent slightly for families working with Family Promise, recognizing the reduced risk. "Landlords, that's huge for us," Chris says. "We're working with these families. We're keeping a tight eye on them, and so it limits risk for landlords." Looking ahead, Family Promise is conducting a feasibility study for a standalone shelter facility, though that goal remains years away. In the meantime, they're exploring leasing apartments directly to families to create a more immediate shelter program. Currently, families living in cars receive limited emergency assistance while the organization rushes to secure permanent housing. Beyond Housing: Comprehensive Support Services While housing assistance forms the core of their work, Family Promise offers additional support to address the secondary crises that often push families into housing instability. The organization provides up to $500 for vehicle repairs, recognizing that transportation access often determines whether families can maintain employment. They offer up to $250 for back property taxes and supply bus passes when needed. Additionally, they provide up to $300 per family for afterschool childcare, removing another barrier to employment stability. "All of this is designed to figure out what's that bump, get them over that hill, and then let them live smoothly," Chris explains. Faith-Rooted, Universally Welcoming Family Promise Winchester Area's relationship with faith communities reflects a thoughtful balance. The national Family Promise network originated in 1988 with founder Karen Olsen's rotating shelter model, where families moved between different church host sites—similar to how Winchester Area Temporary Thermal Shelter (WATTS) operates today for individuals. Church partners remain essential to the organization's funding and volunteer base, with Opequon Presbyterian's recent $20,000 donation exemplifying this support. However, while Family Promise is driven by interfaith values like compassion, love, and empathy, their programming itself remains secular. "We believe in compassion, love, empathy, helping the meek, but our programming itself is not faith-based," Chris clarifies. "We serve all families of all compositions. It doesn't matter what religion you are. There is no expectation that you'll have to go to church on Sunday in order for us to cover your rent." The organization defines family through the child's perspective: whoever the child sees as family is their family, regardless of composition. Any family with a minor child or expecting a child who lives in Winchester, Frederick, Warren, or Clarke County qualifies for services. How the Community Can Help As the conversation concludes, Chris issues a call to action for the Winchester community. Family Promise needs landlords willing to work with their families, volunteers offering even two hours of time, and financial donations of any size. "I'll get a check for $5 and people apologize, saying 'I'm sorry it's not more,'" Chris shares. "$5 makes a real difference. If you get a hundred people giving you $5, that's $500—that's one family we were able to prevent from an eviction." Beyond monetary donations, simple actions make an impact. Following Family Promise Winchester on Facebook and liking or sharing their posts helps algorithms spread awareness. Every share brings Winchester's "best kept secret" a little closer to the visibility it needs. For families needing assistance, the process starts at www.familypromisewinchester.org, where a program application allows quick assessment and entry into the case management system. Time sensitivity matters—many situations require immediate intervention. For everyone else—donors, volunteers, landlords, or simply concerned citizens—the website offers multiple ways to engage. The organization can be reached at (540) 323-8038 or info@familypromisewinchester.org. A Story That Needs Telling Perhaps the most powerful moment in the conversation comes when Chris describes a family currently receiving assistance: "The first thing the mother said to us is, 'We went from taking vacations to living in a motel.' All it took was an illness, a layoff, and that's where they are." This narrative shatters assumptions about who becomes homeless and why. It reminds listeners that family homelessness isn't about moral failing or poor choices—it's about an unforgiving housing market, stagnant wages, inadequate safety nets, and the reality that most Americans live far closer to financial catastrophe than they realize. Ultimately, Family Promise Winchester Area offers something rare and valuable: a proven intervention point where modest investment prevents catastrophic outcomes. At $500 per child, the Help Us Move In fund doesn't just house families—it preserves childhoods, protects development, prevents trauma, and breaks generational cycles of poverty. "We have to stop this because it's just so expensive," Chris concludes, referencing both the human and economic costs. "When we invest early in these childhood interventions, we help stop a cycle, and we also help everybody in society." Winchester's invisible crisis demands visible action. Family Promise Winchester Area has built the infrastructure, demonstrated the results, and proven the model works. Now they need the community's support to scale their impact and ensure no child in the region goes to sleep wondering where they'll wake up tomorrow.

Mark sits down with BrandFest panelist Ross Lehman to recap and highlight key takeaways from the recent community marketing seminar, while special guest Danielle Spriggs joins the conversation to share insights about Winchester's Restaurant Week, which is happening right now.https://www.mortgagebyross.comhttps://markfrancisrealtor.comhttps://iconmedia.ccUpcoming Events :Winchester Restaurant Weekhttps://www.winchesterrestaurantweek.comShenandoah University - “Catch Me if You Can”https://www.su.edu/performs/event/26-02-catch-me-if-you-can/

Guest Paul Knowles has not followed a conventional path. Originally from Texas, he worked in Downtown Dallas as a financial advisor for the world's largest private wealth manager. He then served as marketing director for a highly successful Colorado regional bank and later for one of the nation's top real estate offices. However, it was after stepping away for a year and a half that Paul stumbled onto his true calling, and for the past ten years, he has been the Assistant Director of the Museum of Northwest Colorado, located in Craig, Colorado Summary In this episode, I visit with Paul to explore Western history through various artifacts. From a massive dinosaur footprint recovered from a coal mine to a 1,700-year-old "burden basket" woven by the Indigenous people living in the area at the time, to the Winchester rifle, the first reliable repeating rifle, the museum reveals a layered history stretching from prehistoric swamps to the era of outlaw drama. Paul challenges Hollywood's myth of the violent, gun-slinging West, reframing firearms as tools of survival rather than symbols of chaos. Through objects like annotated copies of Charles Kelly's The Outlaw Trail, prison-made spurs crafted by inmate John Cox, early Colorado brand books, and a letter referencing Butch Cassidy, we'll encounter a West both harsher and more nuanced than legend suggests. At center stage in the museum stands "Western Reflections," the world's largest watercolor, symbolizing remoteness, resilience, and the central importance of water. Ultimately, our conversation highlights the grit, interdependence, and adaptability required to survive in the historic West. A key takeaway Artifacts tell truer stories than myths; when we examine physical evidence, Hollywood's caricature of the West gives way to a more human, complex reality. A Video Tour of the Museum is available in the show notes for this episode on my website: https://www.queticocoaching.com/blog

Guest host Shannon Moody is joined by three community leaders to discuss the importance of meeting families' basic needs in efforts to mitigate Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and the intersection with Bloom Kentucky's state policy priorities. Guests include Lacy Boling, Executive Director, Paducah Cooperative Ministries; Sara Hemingway, Executive Director, Marilyn and William Young Foundation in Owensboro; and Timothy Johnson, President and CEO of the Greater Clark Foundation in Winchester. Learn more about Bloom Kentucky at https://kyyouth.org/bloom/. Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family's wellbeing in mind.

During a recent episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael sits down with Jill Edlich and Kary Haun for Tourism Tuesday — Shenandoah County Edition — to talk about an exciting new chapter unfolding at North Mountain Vineyard and Winery. What begins as a conversation about events and community quickly reveals something much bigger: a Renaissance fair founder has just stepped into life as a vineyard owner. As part of the ongoing Tourism Tuesday series highlighting destinations and experiences in Shenandoah County, the conversation explores how Jill's purchase of North Mountain is reshaping both the winery and the future home of the Ravenwood Faire. As listeners quickly learn, this isn't just a business transaction. It's a story about legacy, land, and local connection. The Perfect Match When Krista, the former owner of North Mountain Vineyard and Winery, decided to sell her beloved property, she wasn't just looking for any buyer. She wanted someone who would cherish the land and preserve its legacy. After waiting patiently for the right person, she found exactly what she was looking for in Jill Edlich—though the match came with an unexpected twist. Jill didn't set out to become a winemaker. Instead, she was searching for a permanent home for the Ravenwood Faire, the Renaissance-style festival she founded in 2019. For years, she had been hosting the fundraising event at the Frederick County Fairgrounds in Clear Brook, but the logistics were exhausting. Setting up and breaking down the event took nearly a week each time, and Jill dreamed of finding land where the fair could put down roots. From Fairgrounds to Vineyards When Jill discovered the 47-acre North Mountain property—with 15 acres planted in grapevines—she realized she'd found more than just a home for her event. She'd stumbled into an entirely new venture. "It's like those TV shows where someone says, 'Honey, I bought a zoo,'" Janet jokes. "And those people are like, 'I've never run a zoo before, but hey, we're gonna give this a shot.'" Jill laughs in agreement. Suddenly, she wasn't just an event organizer—she was a farmer and a vintner. "A lot of people say, 'So how does it feel to be a farmer now?'" Jill reflects. "And I'm like, wow. Yeah. I'm a farmer besides owning the winery." A Wine Lover's Journey Fortunately, Jill's leap into the wine business wasn't entirely blind. Years earlier, she founded the Wine Club for Women, organizing tastings and educational events throughout Frederick County, Winchester, and even Shenandoah County. She loved learning about wine pairings and vineyard operations, but eventually, the demands of the Ravenwood Faire consumed her time. Still, she never abandoned her dream of returning to the wine world someday. "It's kind of like a full circle," Jill explains. "Everything happens for a reason. That's always been one of my things for sure." Preserving Tradition One of Jill's biggest concerns when taking over the winery was maintaining the quality and character that loyal customers had come to expect. Thankfully, she inherited an invaluable asset: the winemaking team. Krista's son, John Jackson, stayed on as head winemaker, along with assistant winemaker Andrew Bender. Together, they're Jill's "wine-making gurus," patiently teaching her the craft while ensuring beloved wines like Toms Brook Red remain unchanged. "Rest assured, we've got Toms Brook Red and that's definitely not going anywhere," Jill promises. Beyond preserving existing wines, she's also excited to experiment with new blends and explore whether certain grapes can stand on their own rather than being blended. A Diverse Portfolio Currently, North Mountain offers an impressive selection. The white wines include Riesling, Oktoberfest, a standout Virginia Apple wine, Gruner Veltliner, Chardonnay, and Gewürztraminer Rosé. Meanwhile, the red lineup features Zweigel Red, Cabernet Franc (Jill's personal favorite), Petite Verdot, Chambourcin Foster's Reserve, Mountain Midnight (a port-style wine), the famous Toms Brook Red, a spiced holiday wine that can be served cold or warmed, and Clairet—a Bordeaux-style blend that's grandfathered in under a now-restricted name. Renovations and Accessibility Since closing on the property on October 31, 2025, Jill has wasted no time making improvements. She opened for business the very next day and immediately began renovations to make the winery more welcoming. The tasting room has been transformed into a clean, inviting space where large groups or dozens of small parties can gather comfortably. Most importantly, Jill prioritizes accessibility. She's adding a ramp to eliminate steps at the entrance, designating handicap parking spots, and extending the parking lot. Additionally, she's constructing a road, making it easier for visitors to access events—especially the Ravenwood Faire—without overwhelming the neighborhood. The Ravenwood Connection While the winery and the Ravenwood Faire are separate entities, they now share the same home. The Ravenwood Foundation will rent space on the property to host the fundraising event, happening in October: the 16th through 18th and the 23rd through 25th. The fair has grown significantly since its inception, particularly in its offerings for children. Last year, the kids' area was constantly packed, which thrills Jill and her team. "Every time I looked over in that area, it was just a constant," she recalls. "It made us feel really good." Beyond the fair, the foundation runs a week-long day camp for children ages 12 to 17, teaching outdoor skills like archery, bread making, and cooking over open fires. Last year's inaugural camp served 16 kids—a number that initially seemed small but proved perfect for working out the kinks. Moving forward, Jill hopes to eventually bring the camp to the vineyard property and possibly expand to overnight sessions, though logistical challenges like insurance and sleeping arrangements remain. Building Community Jill's vision extends beyond wine and fairs. She's actively partnering with local farms and artisans to host events like homesteading workshops, sourdough-making classes, canning demonstrations, and floral arrangement sessions. Every Saturday features live music, and the winery has already hosted trivia nights, bridal showers, and even a 35-person wedding in the great room. "It's really important for us to be working with our local community," Jill emphasizes. "Meeting other farmers now has been amazing." She's also been warmly welcomed by the Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail, a tight-knit group of winemakers who meet every other month at different vineyards. "I walked in there and everybody had open arms," Jill says. "It was an amazing feeling. I'm feeling the love for sure." Looking Ahead As spring approaches, Jill plans to extend the winery's hours beyond the current Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. schedule. She's also reviving Oktoberfest—a tradition Krista maintained even in her final years—and giving it "a little more love." Perhaps most excitingly, Jill is exploring expanding wine production and potentially enlarging the cellar. With stunning sunset views, ample outdoor space, and a growing calendar of events, North Mountain Vineyard and Winery is poised to become a cornerstone of Shenandoah County's tourism scene. For Jill, the journey from Renaissance fair organizer to winery owner has been unexpected but deeply fulfilling. "I know how to drink wine," she jokes. "But to make it, that was a whole different ball of wax." Three months in, she's learning something new every day—and loving every minute of it. North Mountain Vineyard and Winery is located in Shenandoah County at 4374 Swartz Road, Maurertown. For more information, visit northmountainvineyard.com or follow them on Facebook and Instagram. Learn more about the Ravenwood Foundation at ravenwoodfoundation.org.

The Treaty penned at Alton had avoided outright war, but it wasn't truly official.  It needed to be finalized at Winchester. The post 493 – The Price of Peace first appeared on The British History Podcast.

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.

Welcome to Living GodCast, the sermon podcast from Church of the Living God in Winchester, KY!Each week, we bring you powerful biblical messages to encourage and strengthen your faith. Whether you're part of our local church family or tuning in from afar, we pray these messages inspire you in your walk with Christ.Join us in person at 114 Franklin Avenue, Winchester, KY, or explore more about us online at ⁠www.wincitycolg.com⁠. For additional resources and ways to connect, visit our Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/wincitycolg⁠. Subscribe and grow with us in God's Word!

Welcome to Living GodCast, the sermon podcast from Church of the Living God in Winchester, KY!Each week, we bring you powerful biblical messages to encourage and strengthen your faith. Whether you're part of our local church family or tuning in from afar, we pray these messages inspire you in your walk with Christ.Join us in person at 114 Franklin Avenue, Winchester, KY, or explore more about us online at ⁠www.wincitycolg.com⁠. For additional resources and ways to connect, visit our Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/wincitycolg⁠. Subscribe and grow with us in God's Word!

The Hidden Investment Risks Pre-Retirees and Retirees Don’t See Coming: Kentucky Retirement Planning Insights Are you approaching retirement and concerned about protecting your life savings from market volatility? In this comprehensive episode of the Tom Dupree Show, Kentucky retirement planning advisors Tom Dupree and Mike Johnson explore the multidimensional nature of investment risk and why personalized investment management is essential for pre-retirees aged 50-65. Unlike mass-market approaches from large firms, Dupree Financial Group provides direct access to portfolio managers who understand your specific retirement goals and risk tolerance. This evergreen financial education episode delivers timeless wisdom on risk assessment, portfolio protection strategies, and why understanding what you own is critical before retirement. Whether you’re working with a local financial advisor in Kentucky or managing investments on your own, these insights will help you make more informed decisions about your retirement security. Key Takeaways: Investment Risk Management for Pre-Retirees Risk is multidimensional: Investment risk extends beyond simple volatility—it includes sequence of returns risk, concentration risk, and the risk of falling short of your retirement goals The Capital Asset Pricing Model misconception: More risk doesn’t automatically mean more return; it means a wider range of potential outcomes, both positive and negative The danger of false security: Long periods of strong returns can create complacency, causing investors to unknowingly take on excessive risk right before retirement Personalized portfolio analysis matters: Your investment strategy must align with your specific retirement timeline, income needs, and risk capacity—not just market averages Understanding beats panic: Clients who truly understand their portfolio holdings don’t panic during market downturns because they know their strategy is designed for their goals Active risk identification: Professional Kentucky retirement planning involves continuously identifying and monitoring specific risks to each holding, not just following the crowd Howard Marks on Investment Risk: Wisdom from a Market Legend The episode draws heavily from Howard Marks’ influential 2006 memo on risk, which Tom and Mike have studied extensively. Marks, co-founder of Oaktree Capital Management, challenges conventional thinking about risk and return relationships. “If more risk always meant more return, it would cease being risky. The risk would be riskless,” explains Mike Johnson, highlighting the fundamental misunderstanding many investors have about the risk-return relationship. The discussion emphasizes that bearing risk unknowingly represents one of the biggest mistakes pre-retirees can make. This is particularly relevant for those who have experienced strong market performance for years without understanding the volatility embedded in their portfolios. The Real-World Cost of Ignoring Investment Risk Tom Dupree shares a cautionary tale that every pre-retiree should hear: “There was a man that came to me years ago who had been at UK for a number of years. He had invested in Fidelity and TIAA-CREF, good funds, great returns. He had something like 1,000,006 and he had averaged 13 and a quarter percent return per year for like 23 years. He extrapolated that he could take 10% a year, which was $160,000, live on it and be okay because it was gonna keep doing that. The sequence of returns turned around and bit him good.” This example perfectly illustrates sequence of returns risk—a critical concept for anyone approaching retirement. Even with excellent average returns, the timing of market downturns relative to when you need to withdraw funds can devastate a retirement plan. This is why personalized investment management from a local financial advisor who understands your specific timeline is so valuable. Why Volatility Isn’t the Only Risk Pre-Retirees Face The episode challenges the traditional definition of investment risk as merely volatility. For pre-retirees and retirees specifically, Mike Johnson explains: “The base case that we’re trying to solve here? We’re speaking specifically to near retirees and retirees. Volatility is gonna be your friend or your foe the day you need to take your money out. That’s gonna be your definition of risk—what has the volatility done to my money the day I need it.” Additional Risk Dimensions for Kentucky Retirement Planning Falling short of goals: The risk that your portfolio won’t produce sufficient income for your desired retirement lifestyle Concentration risk: Over-exposure to single stocks or sectors, especially common with company stock or recent tech winners Unconventionality risk: The professional risk advisors take when thinking independently rather than following the crowd—but this can benefit clients long-term Underperformance risk: Short-term underperformance relative to indices, which requires conviction in your strategy and understanding your goals Hidden risk exposure: Unknown risks embedded in portfolios, particularly index funds that provide no true diversification strategy The False Sense of Security: Why Long Bull Markets Are Dangerous One of the most powerful concepts discussed is how prolonged positive market performance can numb investors to risk—exactly when they should be most vigilant. Mike Johnson references Nassim Taleb’s “Fooled by Randomness” to illustrate this danger: “Reality’s far more vicious than Russian roulette. First, it delivers the fatal bullet rather infrequently, like a revolver that would have hundreds or even thousands of rounds instead of six. After a few dozen tries, one forgets about the existence of a bullet under a numbing false sense of security. One is thus capable of unwittingly playing Russian roulette and calling it by something alternative: low risk.” This perfectly describes the situation many pre-retirees face today after years of strong market performance. The analogy to driving at 90 mph—where you stop feeling the speed—resonates powerfully. You’re taking significant risk, but you’ve become accustomed to it and no longer perceive the danger. Direct Access to Portfolio Managers: The Dupree Financial Difference Unlike large firms where you’re assigned an investment counselor who may change frequently, Dupree Financial Group provides direct access to portfolio managers Tom Dupree and Mike Johnson. This relationship-focused approach enables: Deep understanding of your specific retirement timeline and goals Customized portfolio construction based on your unique risk capacity Ongoing education about what you own and why you own it Proactive risk identification specific to your holdings The ability to think unconventionally when it serves your interests “When our clients understand what’s in their portfolio and why, they don’t call us panicking when the market drops,” Tom Dupree emphasizes, highlighting the value of education and transparency in financial relationships. Why Index Funds Aren’t a Complete Investment Strategy The episode delivers a sobering message about the limitations of index fund investing for retirees: “If you don’t like risk and you think that you’re not taking any risk by investing in the S&P 500, sweetie pie, you need to get in the money market fund and just hope you got enough money to ride through it because you are taking risk that you don’t know about. And that is a problem because you’re gonna find it out in a very uncomfortable way at some point.” This doesn’t mean index funds have no place in portfolios, but rather that they shouldn’t be confused with a comprehensive retirement income strategy. Personalized portfolio analysis considers: Your specific income needs in retirement Time horizon until you need to access funds Concentration risk in popular stocks or sectors The difference between the accumulation and distribution phases Tax efficiency of different investment approaches Building a Foundation: From Stocks to Portfolio For younger investors just starting out, Mike Johnson offers this perspective: “If somebody’s in their late twenties, early thirties and they have a few stocks here and there, that’s great. You’re ahead of the curve from a lot of people, but that is not a portfolio. What you want to do is lay a foundation that’s more sturdy, more solid than just having a few stocks here and there.” This guidance is equally relevant for pre-retirees who may have accumulated individual positions over time without a cohesive strategy. Kentucky retirement planning requires transitioning from an accumulation mindset to a distribution strategy—and that requires professional portfolio architecture. The Retirement Risk Equation: It’s About Income, Not Just Account Balance One of the most important insights for pre-retirees: “Remember, it’s not just the accumulation, it’s not the dollar amount, it’s what it’s gonna produce for you and how long can it produce that to sustain you. Retirement has the normal set of rules plus other variables that you have to take into consideration.” This shift in perspective—from portfolio value to sustainable income—is where personalized investment management becomes critical. Every individual’s situation differs slightly, and those differences matter enormously in retirement planning. Faith, Risk, and Investment Philosophy Tom Dupree introduces an often-overlooked dimension of investment risk: the role of faith. Not just faith in markets or historical returns, but a deeper consideration of existential risk and what you ultimately trust. “Underpinning any investment scheme is faith. At the base of everything related to risk is faith. You cannot get away from it. One of the things about the God factor is that it takes certain elements of risk that you’re willing to take on for yourself and transfers them to a higher power.” While this dimension is personal and not emphasized in typical financial planning, it reflects Dupree Financial Group’s holistic approach to understanding clients as people—not just portfolios. Frequently Asked Questions About Investment Risk and Retirement Planning What is the biggest investment risk for pre-retirees? The biggest risk for pre-retirees is sequence-of-returns risk—experiencing market downturns just as you begin withdrawing from your portfolio. Even with strong average returns over time, poor returns in the years immediately before and after retirement can devastate your retirement security. This is why personalized retirement planning in Kentucky focuses on more than just average returns. How is investment risk different for retirees versus younger investors? For retirees, risk is primarily defined by volatility’s impact on withdrawals. When you need to take money out during a market downturn, you crystallize losses and reduce your portfolio’s recovery potential. Younger investors have time to recover from volatility. As Tom Dupree explains, “Volatility is gonna be your friend or your foe the day you need to take your money out.” Are index funds safe for retirement portfolios? Index funds are not inherently “safe” for retirement—they carry significant volatility and concentration risks (especially in large-cap tech stocks right now). While they can be part of a retirement strategy, they should not be confused with a comprehensive income plan. Local financial advisors can help design strategies that balance growth needs with income stability. How much can I safely withdraw from my retirement portfolio annually? There’s no universal answer—withdrawal rates depend on your portfolio composition, risk tolerance, retirement timeline, and income needs. The gentleman in Tom’s example assumed 10% annual withdrawals based on historical 13.25% returns, which proved disastrous. Personalized portfolio analysis determines sustainable withdrawal rates specific to your situation. Why should I work with a local Kentucky financial advisor instead of a large national firm? Local advisors like Dupree Financial Group provide direct access to portfolio managers who personally manage your investments, rather than being assigned to a counselor who may change. You receive personalized service, education about your holdings, and strategies tailored to your specific goals—not mass-market approaches. Tom emphasizes: “When our clients understand what’s in their portfolio and why, they don’t call us panicking when the market drops.” What does it mean to “know what you own” in my portfolio? Knowing what you own means understanding not just the names of your holdings, but the specific risks each position carries, how they work together, and why each was selected for your situation. It means knowing what could go wrong with each investment and having conviction in your overall strategy during market volatility. How often should I review my retirement portfolio risk? Pre-retirees should review portfolio risk at least annually, and more frequently as retirement approaches. Risk tolerance, time horizon, and income needs change as you near retirement. Kentucky retirement planning professionals continuously monitor holdings for emerging risks and rebalance as needed. What is concentration risk, and why does it matter? Concentration risk occurs when your portfolio has too much exposure to a single stock, sector, or asset class. Many investors have unknowingly accumulated concentration in large technology stocks through both index funds and individual holdings. If that sector declines, your entire portfolio suffers disproportionately. Diversification addresses concentration risk. How do I know if I’m taking too much risk before retirement? Signs you may have excessive risk include: heavy concentration in stocks after years of strong returns, high portfolio volatility relative to your withdrawal timeline, lack of income-producing assets, or simply not understanding what you own. A complimentary portfolio review with Dupree Financial Group can identify hidden risks: call 859-233-0400. What makes Dupree Financial Group’s investment philosophy different? Dupree Financial Group focuses on building long-term relationships with people—not just managing money. The team conducts their own research, provides comprehensive education, thinks independently rather than following the crowd, and designs portfolios around your specific goals. Learn more about their investment philosophy. Schedule Your Complimentary Portfolio Risk Analysis Don’t Wait for a Market Downturn to Discover Hidden Risks in Your Portfolio If you’re retired or approaching retirement, understanding the specific risks in your portfolio is critical. After 47 years in the investment business, Tom Dupree has seen countless retirees discover they were taking far more risk than they realized—often at the worst possible time. Dupree Financial Group offers Central Kentucky residents a complimentary portfolio review to help you: Identify hidden concentration risks in your current holdings Understand the sequence-of-returns risk as you approach retirement Evaluate whether your portfolio aligns with your retirement income needs Learn what you actually own and why it matters Develop a personalized strategy for your retirement timeline Call 859-233-0400 to schedule your complimentary consultation Or visit us online: Schedule Your Personalized Portfolio Analysis Learn About Our Investment Philosophy Listen to More Market Commentary Read Client Testimonials Explore Kentucky Retirement Planning Services Dupree Financial Group serves clients throughout Central Kentucky, including Lexington, Louisville, Frankfort, Winchester, Richmond, and surrounding communities. About the Tom Dupree Show The Tom Dupree Show provides timeless financial education for investors approaching and in retirement. Hosted by Tom Dupree, Jr., founder of Dupree Financial Group, and portfolio manager Mike Johnson, each episode delivers practical insights on investment management, retirement planning, and portfolio risk assessment. Unlike generic financial advice, the show focuses on the specific challenges facing Kentucky retirees and pre-retirees. Tom Dupree founded Dupree Financial Group on the principle that creating long-term relationships with people—not just their money—is the key to successful wealth management. With direct access to portfolio managers and personalized investment strategies, Dupree Financial Group delivers the attentive service of a local advisor with the knowledge of a seasoned investment team. Episode Type: Evergreen Financial Education Primary Topics: Investment Risk, Retirement Planning, Portfolio Management, Sequence of Returns Risk Featured Guests: Mike Johnson, a member of the team at Dupree Financial Group Listen to More Episodes: Market Commentary Archive Share This Episode Help others understand investment risk by sharing this episode: www.dupreefinancial.com/podcast The post The Hidden Investment Risks You Don’t See Coming: Kentucky Retirement Planning Insights appeared first on Dupree Financial.

He learned to hunt backwards. We talk to Lance Lupton who made 6 polar bear hunts and 2 elephant hunts with a 7mm Magnum and hunted all over the world with the rifle he calls Old Trusty. We hear about his NDE, thoughts on big game hunting, and tips on being a better hunter. Lupton started his hunting career in 1958 at the age of 7 and has hunted with longbow, muzzleloader and, of course, his 7mm Magnum Old Trusty.If you want to support free speech and good hunting content on the Information Superhighway, look for our coffee and books and wildlife forage blends at https://www.garylewisoutdoors.com/Shop/This episode is sponsored by West Coast Floats, of Philomath, Oregon, made in the USA since 1982 for steelhead and salmon fishermen. Visit https://westcoastfloats.com/Our TV sponsors include: Nosler, Camp Chef, Warne Scope Mounts, Carson, ProCure Bait Scents, The Dalles Area Chamber of Commerce, Madras Ford, Bailey Seed and Smartz.Watch select episodes of Frontier Unlimited on our network of affiliates around the U.S. or click https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=gary+lewis+outdoors+frontier+unlimited

“JESUS: The Ultimate Prophet”Mark 13Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let's continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark's Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark's Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

The Florida State Shoot is leveling up — and this year, it's different.In Episode 164 of Trap Talk, Zach and Ricky sit down with Florida ATA President Thomas Harrington to break down what's coming March 17–22 at the Silver Dollar Shooters Club in Odessa, Florida.This isn't business as usual.We're talking:• Nearly $60,000 in added value• Almost 200 ounces of silver up for grabs• Montana Silversmith Super HOA buckles• Ladies Super HOA awards• A catered pig roast• Missing out event with $1,000 guaranteed• Long Run option• Winchester-sponsored walk-up doubles• A serious push toward Competition Factor 5Thomas shares how Florida has tripled sponsorship support in just two years and why innovation — not status quo — is the future of state shoots.If you're already heading to the Southern Grand, staying for the Florida State Shoot just makes sense. Sunshine, seafood, silver, and serious targets.Pre-squad is OPEN now.

The EKN Trackside Live program visits multiple events throughout the karting season. Leading up to major events on the calendar, EKN is happy to provide a show as part of the EKN Radio Network. The EKN OutLap is a preview podcast show, geared at providing you with the top stories, breaking news, and championship battles going into the weekend. The 19th season for Challenge of the Americas kicks off this weekend with the second ever trip to the K1 Circuit. The Winchester, California facility will host the Challenge from February 20-22, ushering in the second year with the Shinko Kart Racing Tires as the official tire and the first year welcoming Briggs & Stratton 206 categories as part of the championship chases. Rob Howden and David Cole preview the SoCal trip for the Challenge in Episode 104 of the OutLap, presented by Stilo USA.

A Homecoming to the Shenandoah Valley Candace DeLong is settling into her new role as Frederick County's consumer horticulture extension agent, and she's already discovering the perks of the position, she explains to host Janet Michael on this episode of The Valley Today. Just three weeks into the job, she's found herself surrounded by enthusiastic Master Gardeners, chocolate Valentine's Day cake, and a team of 150 volunteers ready to tackle any gardening question that comes their way. However, this isn't Candace's first rodeo in the world of extension work. For the past six years, she served as an extension agent in neighboring Hampshire County, West Virginia, where she covered all areas of agriculture. Now, she's narrowing her focus to home gardening, green industry questions, and working closely with the Master Gardener program—a shift she welcomes after years of juggling everything from livestock to orchards. From Indiana to Apple Country Candace's journey to Frederick County began 13 years ago when she left her hometown of Anderson, Indiana, to pursue a master's degree at Virginia Tech. Unlike most graduate students, she didn't spend her time on the Blacksburg campus. Instead, she conducted research at the Alson H. Smith research lab outside Winchester, diving deep into crop load management in apple orchards. Following her graduate work, Candace spent three years working directly in Frederick County's apple industry, gaining hands-on experience that would prove invaluable. "I was out in the field figuring out diseases and insects and bugs and all of those weed issues and how to deal with them," she explains. Moreover, those years spent driving between orchards gave her an intimate knowledge of Frederick County's geography—a bonus that's already paying dividends in her new role. The Power of Problem-Solving Throughout her career, Candace has witnessed the extension system from multiple angles. She's been a graduate student, a grower who benefited from extension services, and now an extension agent herself. This well-rounded perspective shapes her approach to the job, particularly when it comes to science-based problem-solving. "Through that master's degree, I learned a lot of horticulture, but I also learned how to be a scientist, really how to go through the scientific method," Candace reflects. This analytical mindset proves essential in extension work, where home remedies and folklore often clash with research-based solutions. A Team Approach to Community Service Unlike her previous position in rural Hampshire County, where she handled most questions solo, Candace now works alongside a robust Master Gardener program. These trained volunteers staff help desks across five counties—Frederick, Clarke, Warren, Page, and Shenandoah, plus the city of Winchester—answering gardening questions and providing research-based advice to the community. The Master Gardeners maintain a green helpline every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to noon at the Frederick County office, where Candace can often be found. Additionally, each county operates its own helpline with specific hours and email addresses, ensuring residents can access expertise close to home. Furthermore, the Master Gardeners take their knowledge on the road, setting up booths at farmers' markets and community events throughout the growing season. They're already planning an elaborate "Ask a Master Gardener" booth for the June GardenFest at Belle Grove, complete with a prize wheel to reward curious visitors. Spring Events on the Horizon As spring approaches, Candace and the Master Gardener teams are gearing up for a busy season. Earth Day celebrations will bring the volunteers to multiple locations, including a new Stephens City Earth Day festival, the Clarke County Fairgrounds event, and the Red Bud Festival in Browntown. Seven Bends Nursery will also host a celebration featuring Master Gardener expertise. "The two weekends surrounding Earth Day are gonna be—that group will be out and about with their information for sure," Candace notes enthusiastically. Balancing Work and Family Despite her horticultural expertise, Candace admits her home garden has seen better days. With a 1-year-old daughter who puts everything in her mouth, maintaining raised beds and unique apple tree cultivars has become challenging. Nevertheless, she's optimistic about the upcoming season and has developed a practical solution: the "snack garden." "We plant a snack garden that can be trampled on and the vines can be pulled down and they get excited about it," she explains with a laugh. "You have to strategically plan the garden for the children." A Perfect Time to Start Candace joins two other new agents—Cynthia Fairbanks, based in Warren County, and Liz Rohrer, based in Clarke County—creating what Janet calls "a new crop of extension agents." This timing couldn't be better, as the trio can attend professional development trainings together and support one another through farm visits and community events. Meanwhile, her colleague Mark Sutphin, who has been covering both commercial and consumer horticulture, can now focus more on his specialty: working with tree fruit growers and commercial vegetable operations.  Looking Ahead As Candace settles into her role, she's energized by the constant learning opportunities. "I get to learn along with them," she says of the Master Gardeners. "I get to learn through their educational hours that they get to do. And taking in all that information is really exciting for me." For residents across the five-county region, Candace's arrival means renewed focus on consumer horticulture and strengthened support for the already impressive Master Gardener program. Whether you're dealing with tomato pests, wondering about tree diseases, or simply curious about starting your first vegetable garden, help is just a Wednesday morning visit—or an email—away.

El príncipe Andrés, hermano del rey de Inglaterra, detenido 11 horas en Windsor por conducta inapropiada y filtración a Jeffrey Epstein, desata crisis monárquica. Permanece en libertad bajo investigación. A nivel internacional, EE. UU. se prepara para un posible ataque a Irán. El Pentágono despliega una fuerza militar sin precedentes, y Trump exige a Irán renunciar a su programa nuclear en diez días para evitar represalias. En España, la inspectora, presunta víctima de agresión sexual por el ex-DAO de la policía José Ángel González, recibe protección. Se abre investigación interna por la falta de contacto de altos cargos. En Líbano, el Proyecto Fratelli, con misioneros como Guillermo Moreno, ayuda semanalmente a más de 1300 refugiados sirios con alfabetización y formación en una región afectada. El espacio explora misterios, presentando casas encantadas (Mansión Winchester, Hotel Cecil, Casa de los Lamentos, Castillo de Brissac, Monte Cristo Homestead) y el Bosque de Hoia Baciu en ...

Scott McManigle sits down with three ECWA pastors from different African countries at the recent Global Missions conference in Malawi. They share a little bit about their testimony and what growing in the knowledge of God and grace has looked like in their lives. Stay tuned for more podcasts from different locations this year!

While new episodes are currently in production, we're revisiting past conversations that remain timely, impactful, and truly worth revisiting. Thank you for continuing to listen as we build what's ahead for But What Do I Know? --- If you spend more than 10 minutes on Instagram as of late, you have most likely come across a post sharing the importance of "setting boundaries". While the concept of setting boundaries has become popular, sometimes, it may not be easy to discern what a boundary is or how to sustain it. On this episode, Chid is joined by Licensed Therapist, Boundaries Coach and Founder of "Her Therapy Space", Kristin Winchester to discuss all things boundaries. The two discuss how to set boundaries in varying relationships from work/business to romantic, the importance of these boundaries and how to sustain them as the relationship evolves. Get into it! --- Connect with the "But What Do I Know?" Podcast: Twitter: @BWDIKPodcast Insta: @bwdikpodcast Email: ⁠connect@bwdikpodcast.com⁠ Send Your "But What Do I Know?" Mail: ⁠https://msha.ke/bwdikpodcast/⁠ --- Connect with Kristin & Her Therapy Space: Kristin's Personal Instagram: ⁠@kristinwinchesterlpc⁠ Kristin's Personal Website: ⁠https://kristinwinchesterlpc.com/⁠ Her Therapy Space Instagram: ⁠@hertherapyspace⁠ Her Therapy Space Website: ⁠https://hertherapyspace.com/⁠ --- Anti-Gun Violence Resources: 50 Miles More Organization: ⁠https://50milesmore.org/⁠ Zero Gun Violence Movement: ⁠http://zerogunviolence-movement.com/⁠ -- Episode Credits: Intro/Outro Song: Remsen- BWDIK Podcast Theme Song Insta: @itsremsen Transition Songs: Take Care - Julian Avila ⁠http://SoundCloud.com/julian_avila Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How One Virginia Town is Reinventing Community Commerce During Its Bicentennial Mount Jackson, Virginia, is having a moment. During a recent Tourism Tuesday episode of The Valley Today, Town Manager Olivia Hilton sat down with host Janet Michael to share an ambitious slate of initiatives transforming this small Shenandoah County community. From quirky farmers markets to business incubators, Mount Jackson is proving that small towns can think big—and get a little weird while doing it. Honoring History First Before diving into future plans, Olivia highlights the town's commitment to preserving its past. On February 28th, Mount Jackson will host "Roots and Resilience," the finale event for Shenandoah County's Black History Month programming. The event features historian Rosemary Wallinger, who will discuss the CCC camp at Wolf Gap and her work revitalizing the Mount Jackson Colored Cemetery, which was recently added to Virginia's historic registry. Notably, the town plans to record Wallinger's presentation so descendants living in other states can participate virtually, demonstrating how Mount Jackson balances heritage preservation with modern accessibility. Junk and Jams: When Markets Get Funky Starting in April, Mount Jackson launches what might be the region's most creative take on the traditional farmers market. "Junk and Jams" reimagines the second Saturday market experience by pairing music genres with seasonal themes, creating what Olivia describes as a "funky" alternative to larger regional markets. The concept emerged from a brainstorming session—or perhaps a dream—by Assistant Town Manager, Greg Beam, who texted Olivia a flurry of ideas one morning. Rather than competing with established markets in Harrisonburg or Winchester, Mount Jackson decided to embrace its quirky side. Each month features a distinct theme: April kicks off with "Retro and Roots," a 1950s greaser aesthetic meets spring cleaning, complete with retro kitchen kitsch, greenhouse starts, and farm-fresh eggs. May transitions to "Floral and Fiddles," while August brings "Sunflowers and Southern Rock" during the town's yard crawl weekend. Beyond the alliterative themes, Junk and Jams incorporates interactive elements that set it apart. A Model T club will demonstrate disassembling and reassembling vintage cars. The local museum plans a "Price is Right" style game featuring historical products. Vendors will demonstrate kombucha brewing and tea making. Meanwhile, the town is developing a digital cookbook to tie into the bicentennial celebration, weaving history into every program. Importantly, vendors don't need to match the monthly theme—the music and decor create the vibe while crafters, farmers, and vintage sellers bring whatever handmade, homemade, or antique goods they offer. At just $10 per market or $60 for all six events, the barrier to entry remains intentionally low. As Olivia jokes, even if only she and Greg show up, "we're gonna have the time of our lives." The Nest: Incubating Main Street's Future Perhaps Mount Jackson's most ambitious project is The Nest, a retail incubator opening this spring in a renovated 1930s hardware store on Main Street. The concept addresses a common small business challenge: entrepreneurs who aren't quite ready for their own brick-and-mortar location due to full-time jobs, health insurance needs, family obligations, or simple uncertainty about whether their hobby can become a viable business. Thanks to two years of grant funding from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development totaling $125,000 distributed among 11 businesses, Mount Jackson created this shared retail space. Four "nesters" from the Mount Jackson Five business program will anchor the location: Joyce Kelly with Two Turtle Doves, Ryan Peters with Home Revival & Decor, Mike with Poppy's Dust, and Alex and Abby with Sunbliss, a healthy prepackaged meal service. However, The Nest won't resemble typical booth-style antique malls. Instead, Olivia envisions one cohesive boutique experience where established businesses like Jon Henry's, Clementine Vintage, and Nana's Blue Greenhouse occupy corners alongside the newer entrepreneurs. The space will even incorporate display pieces from other downtown businesses like Mount Jackson Thrift & Gift and Search, with commission-based sales creating a truly collaborative downtown ecosystem. Currently, the town's public works team is renovating the space, leaving Olivia with what she calls "the most stressful choice of my life"—picking paint colors. Meanwhile, Alex from Sunbliss, who happens to be a talented artist, will create a 2.5-by-25-foot mural inside, possibly featuring a woodpecker doing woodwork. As Olivia puts it, "Whatever you wanna do, you're the artist." The nesters will contribute volunteer hours as part of their learning experience, while the town navigates various business models including consignment, wholesale, and commission arrangements. The goal remains clear: give entrepreneurs one to two years to test their concepts before they "fly the nest" into their own storefronts. Nights at the Nest: Midweek Main Street To launch The Nest and activate downtown during typically quiet evenings, Mount Jackson introduces "Nights at the Nest" beginning in May. Every second Tuesday from 4 to 8 PM, the retail space stays open late while a food truck parks in the grassy pocket park between Search Thrift and The Nest. The town plans to string bistro lights between buildings, book live music, and transform an underutilized green space into a gathering spot. As Olivia notes, "Nothing to do on a Tuesday? Come on out and shop a little bit, maybe do some live demonstrations." It's another example of Mount Jackson creating its own social scene while supporting local businesses. The Vintage in the Valley Question The conversation took a bittersweet turn when discussing Vintage in the Valley, Strasburg's beloved festival that was canceled for 2025. Olivia expressed frustration that a community with such dedicated volunteers—including Cath from Lydia's, Sue at Clementine, and the Emporium team—couldn't secure municipal support to continue the event. While she quickly dispelled rumors that Mount Jackson would simply absorb the festival (she clarified that the heart of Vintage lies with its volunteer committee, not just a location), she revealed that discussions are underway for a potential "Vintage Through the Valley" concept that would spread the event countywide. This approach would preserve the Emporium's central role while preventing the complete loss of a cherished regional tradition. Janet admitted she may have started the Mount Jackson rumor herself, though Olivia acknowledged the temptation was real. Instead, she's been reaching out to former Vintage in the Valley vendors, inviting them to try Junk and Jams as an alternative. A Town Creating Its Own Social Life Throughout the conversation, Olivia's enthusiasm and self-awareness shine through. She jokes about "creating my own social life in Mount Jackson," acknowledges when she loses naming debates (she advocated for "Citrus and Soul" in September but conceded to "Apples and Americana" for proper alliteration), and celebrates the "you're changing the world" text messages she receives from Rosemary Wallinger. This personal investment reflects a broader truth about small-town revitalization: it requires passionate individuals willing to take risks, embrace quirkiness, and build community one event at a time. Mount Jackson isn't trying to become Harrisonburg or Winchester. Instead, it's carving out its own identity as a place where vintage meets vegetables, where business incubators share space with established retailers, and where a Tuesday night can become a destination. Looking Ahead As Mount Jackson celebrates its bicentennial, the town demonstrates that honoring 200 years of history doesn't mean living in the past. By supporting entrepreneurs, creating unique market experiences, preserving important heritage sites, and fostering collaboration across the downtown business community, this small Shenandoah County town offers a blueprint for rural revitalization that other communities might study. Whether you're interested in retro kitchen kitsch, healthy meal prep, vintage treasures, or simply supporting a town that's willing to get funky with its farmers market, Mount Jackson invites you to be part of its story. Just follow Town of Mount Jackson on Facebook and Instagram, or check out The Nest's new social media managed by Black Valley Creative. And if you see Olivia recording a podcast from her parked car before class, know that she got there early just to share Mount Jackson's good news. That's the kind of dedication that's making this small town's big year possible.

Welcome to Living GodCast, the sermon podcast from Church of the Living God in Winchester, KY!Each week, we bring you powerful biblical messages to encourage and strengthen your faith. Whether you're part of our local church family or tuning in from afar, we pray these messages inspire you in your walk with Christ.Join us in person at 114 Franklin Avenue, Winchester, KY, or explore more about us online at ⁠www.wincitycolg.com⁠. For additional resources and ways to connect, visit our Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/wincitycolg⁠. Subscribe and grow with us in God's Word!

Welcome to Living GodCast, the sermon podcast from Church of the Living God in Winchester, KY!Each week, we bring you powerful biblical messages to encourage and strengthen your faith. Whether you're part of our local church family or tuning in from afar, we pray these messages inspire you in your walk with Christ.Join us in person at 114 Franklin Avenue, Winchester, KY, or explore more about us online at ⁠www.wincitycolg.com⁠. For additional resources and ways to connect, visit our Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/wincitycolg⁠. Subscribe and grow with us in God's Word!

“All In: The Heart of a Disciple, Part Two”Mark 12:41-44Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let's continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark's Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark's Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

Mark Francis joins Mike Lukens and Rose Lauck from the FBC Worship Ministry for a conversation about Song Spotlights at FBC—what they are, how they work, and the heart behind why we do them.

A Hidden Gem Takes Flight Winchester Regional Airport has quietly transformed from a modest local airfield into a major economic driver for the Shenandoah Valley. In a recent episode of The Valley Today, Executive Director Nick Sabo talks with host Janet Michael to unveil stunning new data that reveals just how significant this transformation has been. The Numbers Tell a Compelling Story The Virginia Department of Aviation recently released its 2025 economic impact study, and the results are nothing short of remarkable. Winchester Regional Airport now supports 610 jobs—a dramatic leap from the 179 jobs reported in the 2017 study. Moreover, the airport generates $28.5 million in annual wages for the local workforce and contributes an impressive $46.9 million in gross state product to the Commonwealth's economy. These figures represent more than just statistics. They reflect over $40 million in capital investment made over the past six years, including the construction of a stunning new terminal building that now serves as a community hub. As Nick jokingly noted, the project took so long that he went from having "long hair like Fabio" to his current look by the time it was completed. More Than Just Recreational Flying Many residents assume Winchester Regional Airport primarily serves hobbyist pilots storing planes in hangars. However, this perception couldn't be further from reality. In fact, recreational aviation represents only a minority of the airport's activity. Instead, the airport serves as a critical gateway for business aviation. CEOs from major retailers who regularly fly into Winchester for meetings and site visits. This capability allows executives to bypass the congestion of major commercial airports like Dulles and arrive within minutes of their actual destination. Furthermore, the airport supports essential services that many residents never consider. Medical evacuation flights, law enforcement operations, agricultural surveying, and flight training all happen regularly at the facility. These diverse operations would create significant congestion at larger airports, demonstrating the value of the nation's extensive network of regional airports. Why You Won't See Southwest Airlines Here One question Nick fields constantly is why Winchester doesn't offer commercial airline service. The answer, he explains, comes down to economics and regulation. To accommodate commercial airlines, the airport would need to meet FAR Part 139 Airport Certification standards—a regulatory hurdle requiring tens of millions of dollars in infrastructure investment. Additionally, Winchester's proximity to Dulles International Airport makes competing for airline service economically unfeasible. Rather than viewing this as a limitation, Nick emphasizes the tremendous value the airport already provides through its current operations. He also hints at exciting possibilities on the horizon, including smaller air taxis that could operate under existing regulations. A Community Asset by Design Winchester Regional Airport benefits from exceptional planning that has made it a good neighbor. Unlike many airports surrounded by residential development, Winchester's facility sits in an area with compatible land use. This thoughtful approach by Frederick County Planning ensures that noise complaints remain minimal and the airport can operate effectively without disrupting nearby communities. The new terminal building exemplifies this community-focused approach. Designed intentionally to connect with residents in meaningful ways, the facility has hosted the Apple Blossom Air Show, Wings and Wheels events, Girls in Aviation Day, and numerous business center gatherings. The building even features a public art display from the Shenandoah Arts Council on its second floor. Nick enthusiastically invites community members to visit anytime—no special reason required. Visitors can enjoy lunch while watching aircraft operations, tour the facility, or simply experience aviation up close in ways impossible at major commercial airports. Building Tomorrow's Aerospace Workforce Winchester Regional Airport plays a crucial role in developing the region's aerospace workforce. Two flight schools—Aviation Adventures and Aero Elite—operate from the main terminal, offering pathways for both professional pilots and recreational enthusiasts. However, Nick emphasizes that aviation careers extend far beyond piloting. The industry needs aircraft maintenance technicians, air traffic controllers, meteorologists, engineers, architects, and avionics specialists. Many of these careers don't require four-year degrees, making them accessible through apprenticeships, credentials, or associate degree programs. The airport partners extensively with local educational institutions, including public school CTE programs, Laurel Ridge Community College, and Shenandoah University. Notably, Laurel Ridge offers a comprehensive drone program that teaches students about commercial drone operation—a field requiring FAA licensing for any commercial use, from real estate photography to agricultural surveying. Interestingly, the pathway to becoming a commercial pilot has shifted dramatically. Twenty or thirty years ago, military service was virtually the only route. Today, private flight schools like those at Winchester have become the primary training ground for commercial airline pilots, fundamentally changing how the industry develops talent. Economic Development's Secret Weapon Patrick Barker and the Frederick County Economic Development Authority understand what many residents don't: having a capable regional airport is crucial for attracting new industry and retail development. Nearly every major company operating in the region has utilized the airport at some point. The airport's value extends beyond simply moving executives around. It opens the region to aerospace-related economic development—opportunities that can only exist where capable airport infrastructure is present. This sector diversification strengthens the local economy and creates high-quality jobs across various skill levels. Looking Toward the Future As Winchester Regional Airport approaches its centennial in 2037, Nick envisions continued smart planning and adaptation to transformational forces reshaping aviation. Advanced Air Mobility—encompassing drones, unmanned systems, and new aircraft technologies—promises to lower operating costs and create new business opportunities. While the airport monitors these emerging technologies closely, Nick emphasizes that the facility's primary responsibility remains meeting the region's current needs. The airport will continue investing strategically while positioning itself to capitalize on future opportunities like air taxis and other innovative aviation services. The role of general aviation airports in their communities is evolving rapidly. Winchester Regional Airport stands ready to embrace this evolution, continuing to serve as an economic engine, workforce development hub, and community asset for the Shenandoah Valley. An Invitation to Explore For residents who haven't visited the new terminal at 491 Airport Road, Nick extends a warm invitation. The facility stands as a testament to what thoughtful investment and community partnership can achieve. Whether you're interested in aviation careers, curious about the industry, or simply want to watch planes while enjoying lunch, Winchester Regional Airport welcomes you. As the economic impact study clearly demonstrates, this isn't just "our little airport" anymore—it's a sophisticated transportation asset driving regional prosperity and opening doors to opportunity for generations to come.

Mark sits down with the CEO of the Winchester Rescue Mission to learn more about what this local non-profit organization is doing to improve the lives of men and women in the community who need not just shelter, food, and clothing, but more importantly the skills and tools for life success.https://www.winrescue.org/Upcoming Events:February 14 - “Love Letters” at James Charles Wineryhttps://visitwinchesterva.com/event/love-letters-event/February 22 - VA250:  George Washington Birthday Wreath Layinghttps://visitwinchesterva.com/event/va250-george-washingtons-birthday-wreath-laying-2/

To make His promise more certain, the LORD identifies Himself to Abram as the One who brought Abram from his homeland to possess the Promised Land. When Abram asks for further confirmation, the LORD tells Abram to sacrifice several animals. The LORD attaches His Word to this sign that Abraham's descendants will serve as slaves in a foreign nation, but the LORD will rescue them and bring them back to the Promised Land. When the LORD passes through the sacrificed animals, He promises that He will keep His Word to Abram and his Offspring.  Rev. Nate Hill, pastor at St. Michael's Lutheran Church in Winchester, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Genesis 15:7-21.  To learn more about St. Michael's, visit stmichaelswinchester.org. “In the Beginning” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies Genesis. The first book of Moses sets the stage for God's entire story of salvation. As we learn the beginning of the story, God prepares us to receive the fulfillment of the story: Jesus Christ, the Offspring of the woman who has crushed our enemy's head.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

Isaac Gibson is a songwriter, vocalist,and guitarist originally from Castlewood, Virginia, and the frontman of 49 Winchester. Formed in Appalachia, the band has released five studio albums while building a devoted fanbase through constant touring. In 2025, 49 Winchester signed with MCA and Lucille Records, where they are currently working with Dave Cobb on a new full-length album scheduled for release in 2026. The band recently released a cover of Black Sabbath's “Changes” as their first new music under the partnership.In this episode, we talk about Isaac's upbringing in Appalachia, the evolution of 49 Winchester, building a career on the road, signing with MCA, working with Dave Cobb, and what this next chapter looks like for the band—along with many other stops along the way.--------------------------------------------------This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.---------------------------------------------------Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.#IsaacGibson #49Winchester #CountryMusic #Americana #SouthernRock #Songwriting #Nashville #DaveCobb #MusicPodcast #TenYearTownNew Episodes every Tuesday.Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. Social Channels for Ten Year Town:YoutubeFacebookInstagramTwitterTikTokThis podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth. Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here. Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. Artwork design by Brad Vetter. Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Hello Colorado Rapids fans. This is another episode in our Memories From Toronto series, where we interview people from the 2010 Colorado Rapids. There's still several of these interviews waiting to be released. I've got a few soccer new resolutions for 2026, and sharing these with you is one of them. On this episode, I speak with Steve Guppy, the top assistant coach under Gary Smith. Steve grew up in Winchester, north of Southampton in England. Played for more than a decade in the Football league. From 1990-92, he and Gary Smith were teammates at Wycombe Wanderers. Spent three years at Celtic, winning the Scottish Premiership. In the later half of his playing career, he played for D.C. United and Rochester Rhinos. In 2008, Gary Smith got hired at Colorado Rapids. He recruited his former Wycombe teammate into retirement to start his coaching career. Guppy discusses that season, his affinity for creative wide players that led to the acquisition of Mac Kandji, and the fallout from the 2011 season. For those who listened to the Jeff Plush and Paul Bravo episodes, Guppy gives his and Smith's side of those relationships and the ultimate parting of ways. There's a lot to learn from what he says and doesn't say. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Hidden Investment Risks Pre-Retirees and Retirees Don’t See Coming: Kentucky Retirement Planning Insights Are you approaching retirement and concerned about protecting your life savings from market volatility? In this comprehensive episode of the Tom Dupree Show, Kentucky retirement planning advisors Tom Dupree and Mike Johnson explore the multidimensional nature of investment risk and why personalized investment management is essential for pre-retirees aged 50-65. Unlike mass-market approaches from large firms, Dupree Financial Group provides direct access to portfolio managers who understand your specific retirement goals and risk tolerance. This evergreen financial education episode delivers timeless wisdom on risk assessment, portfolio protection strategies, and why understanding what you own is critical before retirement. Whether you’re working with a local financial advisor in Kentucky or managing investments on your own, these insights will help you make more informed decisions about your retirement security. Key Takeaways: Investment Risk Management for Pre-Retirees Risk is multidimensional: Investment risk extends beyond simple volatility—it includes sequence of returns risk, concentration risk, and the risk of falling short of your retirement goals The Capital Asset Pricing Model misconception: More risk doesn’t automatically mean more return; it means a wider range of potential outcomes, both positive and negative The danger of false security: Long periods of strong returns can create complacency, causing investors to unknowingly take on excessive risk right before retirement Personalized portfolio analysis matters: Your investment strategy must align with your specific retirement timeline, income needs, and risk capacity—not just market averages Understanding beats panic: Clients who truly understand their portfolio holdings don’t panic during market downturns because they know their strategy is designed for their goals Active risk identification: Professional Kentucky retirement planning involves continuously identifying and monitoring specific risks to each holding, not just following the crowd Howard Marks on Investment Risk: Wisdom from a Market Legend The episode draws heavily from Howard Marks’ influential 2006 memo on risk, which Tom and Mike have studied extensively. Marks, co-founder of Oaktree Capital Management, challenges conventional thinking about risk and return relationships. “If more risk always meant more return, it would cease being risky. The risk would be riskless,” explains Mike Johnson, highlighting the fundamental misunderstanding many investors have about the risk-return relationship. The discussion emphasizes that bearing risk unknowingly represents one of the biggest mistakes pre-retirees can make. This is particularly relevant for those who have experienced strong market performance for years without understanding the volatility embedded in their portfolios. The Real-World Cost of Ignoring Investment Risk Tom Dupree shares a cautionary tale that every pre-retiree should hear: “There was a man that came to me years ago who had been at UK for a number of years. He had invested in Fidelity and TIAA-CREF, good funds, great returns. He had something like 1,000,006 and he had averaged 13 and a quarter percent return per year for like 23 years. He extrapolated that he could take 10% a year, which was $160,000, live on it and be okay because it was gonna keep doing that. The sequence of returns turned around and bit him good.” This example perfectly illustrates sequence of returns risk—a critical concept for anyone approaching retirement. Even with excellent average returns, the timing of market downturns relative to when you need to withdraw funds can devastate a retirement plan. This is why personalized investment management from a local financial advisor who understands your specific timeline is so valuable. Why Volatility Isn’t the Only Risk Pre-Retirees Face The episode challenges the traditional definition of investment risk as merely volatility. For pre-retirees and retirees specifically, Mike Johnson explains: “The base case that we’re trying to solve here? We’re speaking specifically to near retirees and retirees. Volatility is gonna be your friend or your foe the day you need to take your money out. That’s gonna be your definition of risk—what has the volatility done to my money the day I need it.” Additional Risk Dimensions for Kentucky Retirement Planning Falling short of goals: The risk that your portfolio won’t produce sufficient income for your desired retirement lifestyle Concentration risk: Over-exposure to single stocks or sectors, especially common with company stock or recent tech winners Unconventionality risk: The professional risk advisors take when thinking independently rather than following the crowd—but this can benefit clients long-term Underperformance risk: Short-term underperformance relative to indices, which requires conviction in your strategy and understanding your goals Hidden risk exposure: Unknown risks embedded in portfolios, particularly index funds that provide no true diversification strategy The False Sense of Security: Why Long Bull Markets Are Dangerous One of the most powerful concepts discussed is how prolonged positive market performance can numb investors to risk—exactly when they should be most vigilant. Mike Johnson references Nassim Taleb’s “Fooled by Randomness” to illustrate this danger: “Reality’s far more vicious than Russian roulette. First, it delivers the fatal bullet rather infrequently, like a revolver that would have hundreds or even thousands of rounds instead of six. After a few dozen tries, one forgets about the existence of a bullet under a numbing false sense of security. One is thus capable of unwittingly playing Russian roulette and calling it by something alternative: low risk.” This perfectly describes the situation many pre-retirees face today after years of strong market performance. The analogy to driving at 90 mph—where you stop feeling the speed—resonates powerfully. You’re taking significant risk, but you’ve become accustomed to it and no longer perceive the danger. Direct Access to Portfolio Managers: The Dupree Financial Difference Unlike large firms where you’re assigned an investment counselor who may change frequently, Dupree Financial Group provides direct access to portfolio managers Tom Dupree and Mike Johnson. This relationship-focused approach enables: Deep understanding of your specific retirement timeline and goals Customized portfolio construction based on your unique risk capacity Ongoing education about what you own and why you own it Proactive risk identification specific to your holdings The ability to think unconventionally when it serves your interests “When our clients understand what’s in their portfolio and why, they don’t call us panicking when the market drops,” Tom Dupree emphasizes, highlighting the value of education and transparency in financial relationships. Why Index Funds Aren’t a Complete Investment Strategy The episode delivers a sobering message about the limitations of index fund investing for retirees: “If you don’t like risk and you think that you’re not taking any risk by investing in the S&P 500, sweetie pie, you need to get in the money market fund and just hope you got enough money to ride through it because you are taking risk that you don’t know about. And that is a problem because you’re gonna find it out in a very uncomfortable way at some point.” This doesn’t mean index funds have no place in portfolios, but rather that they shouldn’t be confused with a comprehensive retirement income strategy. Personalized portfolio analysis considers: Your specific income needs in retirement Time horizon until you need to access funds Concentration risk in popular stocks or sectors The difference between the accumulation and distribution phases Tax efficiency of different investment approaches Building a Foundation: From Stocks to Portfolio For younger investors just starting out, Mike Johnson offers this perspective: “If somebody’s in their late twenties, early thirties and they have a few stocks here and there, that’s great. You’re ahead of the curve from a lot of people, but that is not a portfolio. What you want to do is lay a foundation that’s more sturdy, more solid than just having a few stocks here and there.” This guidance is equally relevant for pre-retirees who may have accumulated individual positions over time without a cohesive strategy. Kentucky retirement planning requires transitioning from an accumulation mindset to a distribution strategy—and that requires professional portfolio architecture. The Retirement Risk Equation: It’s About Income, Not Just Account Balance One of the most important insights for pre-retirees: “Remember, it’s not just the accumulation, it’s not the dollar amount, it’s what it’s gonna produce for you and how long can it produce that to sustain you. Retirement has the normal set of rules plus other variables that you have to take into consideration.” This shift in perspective—from portfolio value to sustainable income—is where personalized investment management becomes critical. Every individual’s situation differs slightly, and those differences matter enormously in retirement planning. Faith, Risk, and Investment Philosophy Tom Dupree introduces an often-overlooked dimension of investment risk: the role of faith. Not just faith in markets or historical returns, but a deeper consideration of existential risk and what you ultimately trust. “Underpinning any investment scheme is faith. At the base of everything related to risk is faith. You cannot get away from it. One of the things about the God factor is that it takes certain elements of risk that you’re willing to take on for yourself and transfers them to a higher power.” While this dimension is personal and not emphasized in typical financial planning, it reflects Dupree Financial Group’s holistic approach to understanding clients as people—not just portfolios. Frequently Asked Questions About Investment Risk and Retirement Planning What is the biggest investment risk for pre-retirees? The biggest risk for pre-retirees is sequence-of-returns risk—experiencing market downturns just as you begin withdrawing from your portfolio. Even with strong average returns over time, poor returns in the years immediately before and after retirement can devastate your retirement security. This is why personalized retirement planning in Kentucky focuses on more than just average returns. How is investment risk different for retirees versus younger investors? For retirees, risk is primarily defined by volatility’s impact on withdrawals. When you need to take money out during a market downturn, you crystallize losses and reduce your portfolio’s recovery potential. Younger investors have time to recover from volatility. As Tom Dupree explains, “Volatility is gonna be your friend or your foe the day you need to take your money out.” Are index funds safe for retirement portfolios? Index funds are not inherently “safe” for retirement—they carry significant volatility and concentration risks (especially in large-cap tech stocks right now). While they can be part of a retirement strategy, they should not be confused with a comprehensive income plan. Local financial advisors can help design strategies that balance growth needs with income stability. How much can I safely withdraw from my retirement portfolio annually? There’s no universal answer—withdrawal rates depend on your portfolio composition, risk tolerance, retirement timeline, and income needs. The gentleman in Tom’s example assumed 10% annual withdrawals based on historical 13.25% returns, which proved disastrous. Personalized portfolio analysis determines sustainable withdrawal rates specific to your situation. Why should I work with a local Kentucky financial advisor instead of a large national firm? Local advisors like Dupree Financial Group provide direct access to portfolio managers who personally manage your investments, rather than being assigned to a counselor who may change. You receive personalized service, education about your holdings, and strategies tailored to your specific goals—not mass-market approaches. Tom emphasizes: “When our clients understand what’s in their portfolio and why, they don’t call us panicking when the market drops.” What does it mean to “know what you own” in my portfolio? Knowing what you own means understanding not just the names of your holdings, but the specific risks each position carries, how they work together, and why each was selected for your situation. It means knowing what could go wrong with each investment and having conviction in your overall strategy during market volatility. How often should I review my retirement portfolio risk? Pre-retirees should review portfolio risk at least annually, and more frequently as retirement approaches. Risk tolerance, time horizon, and income needs change as you near retirement. Kentucky retirement planning professionals continuously monitor holdings for emerging risks and rebalance as needed. What is concentration risk, and why does it matter? Concentration risk occurs when your portfolio has too much exposure to a single stock, sector, or asset class. Many investors have unknowingly accumulated concentration in large technology stocks through both index funds and individual holdings. If that sector declines, your entire portfolio suffers disproportionately. Diversification addresses concentration risk. How do I know if I’m taking too much risk before retirement? Signs you may have excessive risk include: heavy concentration in stocks after years of strong returns, high portfolio volatility relative to your withdrawal timeline, lack of income-producing assets, or simply not understanding what you own. A complimentary portfolio review with Dupree Financial Group can identify hidden risks: call 859-233-0400. What makes Dupree Financial Group’s investment philosophy different? Dupree Financial Group focuses on building long-term relationships with people—not just managing money. The team conducts their own research, provides comprehensive education, thinks independently rather than following the crowd, and designs portfolios around your specific goals. Learn more about their investment philosophy. Schedule Your Complimentary Portfolio Risk Analysis Don’t Wait for a Market Downturn to Discover Hidden Risks in Your Portfolio If you’re retired or approaching retirement, understanding the specific risks in your portfolio is critical. After 47 years in the investment business, Tom Dupree has seen countless retirees discover they were taking far more risk than they realized—often at the worst possible time. Dupree Financial Group offers Central Kentucky residents a complimentary portfolio review to help you: Identify hidden concentration risks in your current holdings Understand the sequence-of-returns risk as you approach retirement Evaluate whether your portfolio aligns with your retirement income needs Learn what you actually own and why it matters Develop a personalized strategy for your retirement timeline Call 859-233-0400 to schedule your complimentary consultation Or visit us online: Schedule Your Personalized Portfolio Analysis Learn About Our Investment Philosophy Listen to More Market Commentary Read Client Testimonials Explore Kentucky Retirement Planning Services Dupree Financial Group serves clients throughout Central Kentucky, including Lexington, Louisville, Frankfort, Winchester, Richmond, and surrounding communities. About the Tom Dupree Show The Tom Dupree Show provides timeless financial education for investors approaching and in retirement. Hosted by Tom Dupree, Jr., founder of Dupree Financial Group, and portfolio manager Mike Johnson, each episode delivers practical insights on investment management, retirement planning, and portfolio risk assessment. Unlike generic financial advice, the show focuses on the specific challenges facing Kentucky retirees and pre-retirees. Tom Dupree founded Dupree Financial Group on the principle that creating long-term relationships with people—not just their money—is the key to successful wealth management. With direct access to portfolio managers and personalized investment strategies, Dupree Financial Group delivers the attentive service of a local advisor with the knowledge of a seasoned investment team. Episode Type: Evergreen Financial Education Primary Topics: Investment Risk, Retirement Planning, Portfolio Management, Sequence of Returns Risk Featured Guests: Mike Johnson, a member of the team at Dupree Financial Group Listen to More Episodes: Market Commentary Archive Share This Episode Help others understand investment risk by sharing this episode: www.dupreefinancial.com/podcast The post The Hidden Investment Risks You Don’t See Coming: Kentucky Retirement Planning Insights appeared first on Dupree Financial.

Welcome to Living GodCast, the sermon podcast from Church of the Living God in Winchester, KY!Each week, we bring you powerful biblical messages to encourage and strengthen your faith. Whether you're part of our local church family or tuning in from afar, we pray these messages inspire you in your walk with Christ.Join us in person at 114 Franklin Avenue, Winchester, KY, or explore more about us online at ⁠www.wincitycolg.com⁠. For additional resources and ways to connect, visit our Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/wincitycolg⁠. Subscribe and grow with us in God's Word!

Welcome to Living GodCast, the sermon podcast from Church of the Living God in Winchester, KY!Each week, we bring you powerful biblical messages to encourage and strengthen your faith. Whether you're part of our local church family or tuning in from afar, we pray these messages inspire you in your walk with Christ.Join us in person at 114 Franklin Avenue, Winchester, KY, or explore more about us online at ⁠www.wincitycolg.com⁠. For additional resources and ways to connect, visit our Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/wincitycolg⁠. Subscribe and grow with us in God's Word!

Welcome to Living GodCast, the sermon podcast from Church of the Living God in Winchester, KY!Each week, we bring you powerful biblical messages to encourage and strengthen your faith. Whether you're part of our local church family or tuning in from afar, we pray these messages inspire you in your walk with Christ.Join us in person at 114 Franklin Avenue, Winchester, KY, or explore more about us online at ⁠www.wincitycolg.com⁠. For additional resources and ways to connect, visit our Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/wincitycolg⁠. Subscribe and grow with us in God's Word!

“All In: The Heart of a Disciple, Part One”Mark 12:41-44Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let's continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark's Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark's Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

Understanding the True Landscape of Community Services United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley is tackling one of the region's most persistent questions: Are there too many nonprofits, and do they overlap in their services? To find definitive answers, CEO Andy Gail announced a comprehensive regional nonprofit survey during a recent episode of The Valley Today with host Janet Michael. "We've heard so many people from elected officials to community members say, 'Oh, there's so many nonprofits. There's a bunch of overlap,'" Andy explains. "We said, let's actually get the data and provide real answers instead of conjecture." Beyond the Numbers: What the Survey Reveals The survey goes far deeper than simply counting organizations. Instead, it captures critical details about each nonprofit's operations, including their specific programs, service areas, collaboration efforts, and capacity challenges. Participating organizations answer questions about which populations they serve, whether they're meeting current demand, how many people sit on waiting lists, and crucially, what services they believe are missing in the region. Moreover, the survey asks nonprofits to identify their biggest challenges and common misconceptions about their work. Early responses already reveal telling patterns: funding remains the top concern, with organizations citing high food costs, rising demands, and aging volunteer bases as significant obstacles. A 21-Minute Investment with Lasting Impact While Andy initially worried the survey might take up to an hour, data shows nonprofits complete it in an average of 21 minutes and 47 seconds. The survey accommodates organizations with multiple programs, allowing them to detail up to five programs with specific information about each one. Furthermore, United Way has made the process as accessible as possible. Organizations can access the survey through the United Way NSV website, and Andy's team is reaching out through multiple channels—including chambers of commerce, email blasts, and social media—to ensure every nonprofit in Winchester, Frederick, Clarke, Warren, Shenandoah, and Page counties has the opportunity to participate. Collaboration Over Competition Contrary to popular belief, local nonprofits aren't fighting for territory. Instead, they're increasingly working together to maximize their impact. Andy highlights several successful partnerships that emerged simply from United Way facilitating introductions between organizations doing similar work. "There's this misconception that we're all competing," he notes. "While in some cases, yeah, you are competing for grants, you're competing for visibility, it's really not that way. No one is out to get anyone." For example, Winchester CCAP recently received United Way's largest grant—$50,000—and has since expanded to seven collaborative partners, all working together to provide fresh fruits and vegetables to food-insecure residents. Similarly, organizations serving individuals with intellectual disabilities in Shenandoah County have formalized an alliance after United Way connected them, positioning themselves to pursue larger regional funding opportunities. Dispelling the Overlap Myth When people claim there are "too many" nonprofits, they often misunderstand what that number represents. Andy clarifies that while the IRS lists over 400 tax-exempt organizations in Winchester alone, these include various categories beyond traditional human service nonprofits. "A 501(c)(3) is what we're talking about—organizations eligible for tax-deductible charitable donations," he explains. "But there are also 501(c)(4) advocacy groups, (c)(6) chambers of commerce, (c)(7) recreational clubs like Little League teams. When you filter down to human services organizations actually serving our local community, the picture looks very different." Additionally, even among similar services, nonprofits often serve distinct needs. Food pantries, for instance, may appear redundant until you consider that some operate as drive-throughs while others accommodate walk-up clients, some distribute in mornings while others serve evening hours for working families. These organizations increasingly coordinate to ensure they're complementing rather than duplicating each other's efforts. The Funding Reality One critical misconception the survey will help address concerns nonprofit funding sources. Many community members assume local nonprofits receive substantial government support, but the reality tells a different story. "City of Winchester used to give out local funding but stopped that program back in 2016, 2017, 2018," Andy reveals. "The county still gives a little, but when federal funding cuts happened recently, we lost over $2 million from our local nonprofit space. The localities simply can't make that up—the city would have to raise taxes through the roof." Consequently, local nonprofits rely heavily on private philanthropy and strategic partnerships to stretch every dollar. United Way itself demonstrates this efficiency: every dollar invested now generates $1.77 in community impact through their grants and collaborative initiatives. Andy's goal is to reach a 2:1 return by fostering even more collaboration. Building a Living Resource Guide The survey data will serve multiple purposes beyond answering the overlap question. First, United Way will create an updated public-facing resource guide, replacing their 2022 printed version with a searchable online database. Second, they'll share the information with Virginia 211, the statewide resource navigation hub, ensuring residents can easily find help when they need it. Third, and perhaps most importantly, the data will inform community leaders, funders, and elected officials about actual service gaps and needs. When nonprofits—the organizations on the front lines—identify missing services or insufficient capacity, their insights carry significant weight. "They're the ones dealing with people," Janet emphasizes. "If you've not been in one of those situations, you don't really know what they may need at any point in that journey." A Call to Action United Way is accepting survey responses throughout February, with plans to analyze the data in March and release a comprehensive community report in the second quarter of 2025. Nonprofit leaders, board members, and volunteers can access the survey at unitedwaynsv.org or by contacting the organization directly at info@unitedwaynsv.org or 540-536-1610. As the region faces a frigid winter weekend, Janet offers a practical suggestion: "What better way to spend it? Spend 20 minutes of your time filling out a survey." Ultimately, this initiative represents more than data collection. It's an investment in understanding and strengthening the safety net that supports the Valley's most vulnerable residents. By mapping the nonprofit landscape with precision, United Way aims to foster collaboration, eliminate inefficiencies, and ensure every dollar donated creates maximum impact in the community.

Emma Kate catches up with Scott McManigle and Jim Pool on their recent trip to Ecuador. They chat about the conference that they taught at in partnership with the church in Cuenca, Ecuador. Tune in to hear how God is moving in Ecuador.

This week on Sermon Spotlight, the conversation centers on Mark 12:35–40, as host Rose is joined by Cole McQuaid and Caleb Pearson. Set just days before the cross, this moment in Mark's Gospel marks Jesus' final public teaching in the temple—a powerful confrontation that exposes false religion and reveals the true authority of the Messiah.This thoughtful, honest conversation challenges listeners to move beyond surface-level belief and ask hard questions about where assurance, worship, and obedience truly come from.Listen to the sermon we're talking about: fbcva.org/current-sermon-series or fbcva.org/podcastsBe a part of the conversation by submitting your thoughts and questions: fbcva.org/sermon-spotlight-podcastWatch this episode and subscribe on YouTube:  @fellowshipbiblechurchvaFind out more about Fellowship Bible Church: fbcva.orgSubscribe to emails from Fellowship: fbcva.org/subscribeEngage with us:Facebook: facebook.com/groups/fellowshipfamInstagram: instagram.com/fellowshipbiblechurch/ #SermonSpotlight #FellowshipBibleChurch #FBCVA #Mark12 #BibleTeaching #ChristianPodcast #FaithInEverydayLife #Discipleship #FollowingJesus

From Historic Roots to Modern Mission The Youth Development Center has found its new home in the heart of Winchester, and Executive Director Sarah Fishel couldn't be more excited about what this means for the community. Speaking with host Janet Michael on The Valley Today, Sarah traced the organization's journey from its 1990 founding to its March 2025 relocation to 302 South Loudoun Street, right off the walking mall. The YDC's story began with a simple yet powerful vision: community leaders and business people wanted to create a space where children could grow, learn, and experience opportunities they wouldn't otherwise have. Tom and Sheila Baker donated their home to launch the initiative, and the organization quickly became a Winchester institution. By January 1996, the YDC was hosting its first high school dance—a tradition many locals still remember fondly. A Building with History, A Vision for the Future The new downtown location brings its own rich history to the table. Previously home to YHB accounting firm, a downtown athletic club, and even a funeral home, the building features remnants of its past, including two racquetball courts that delighted visitors during the recent Preservation of Historic Winchester holiday house tour. Sarah notes that this historical connection helps parents feel more comfortable bringing their children to explore what the YDC offers today. Moreover, the location itself proves ideal for accessibility. Families can walk to the center, catch the bus, or use the spacious parking lot for drop-offs. This strategic positioning in downtown Winchester removes transportation barriers that might otherwise prevent children from participating in programs. Addressing Today's Challenges Sarah identifies a critical shift in the challenges facing today's youth compared to previous generations. While Janet recalls her own childhood spent "riding the strip" with nowhere to go, today's children face a different problem: they're glued to their screens. Furthermore, Sarah points out that many children, particularly "COVID babies," missed crucial developmental windows for learning basic social skills like making eye contact, smiling at strangers, and engaging in face-to-face conversation. The YDC aims to fill this gap by creating an environment where children can practice these essential life skills. Sarah emphasizes that the center wants to be "a place where kids can come in, learn a little bit, but have some fun and just create the relationships that maybe were easier for all of us, pre-COVID or pre-iPhone." Programs That Make a Difference Read Start: Building Confidence Through Literacy The YDC's Read Start program tackles one of Winchester's most pressing educational challenges: children reading significantly below grade level. Led by Shenandoah University student Rowan Lippy, the program goes beyond traditional reading instruction by incorporating movement and energy to keep kids engaged. Sarah emphasizes the connection between reading ability and confidence, noting she can't imagine sitting in a classroom unable to read alongside peers. The program costs $10 per class, though scholarships ensure no child is turned away due to financial constraints.  Saturday Art Classes: Creativity Without Judgment Every Saturday, program coordinator Lindsay Browning leads free art classes that teach children more than just painting techniques. The sessions encourage kids to embrace their feelings, follow directions while making them their own, and most importantly, create without fear of judgment. Janet highlights how art education teaches children not to judge others—a crucial skill in today's divided world. Sarah shares a touching story about a young student who drew her a stick figure tutorial after she joked about her own artistic limitations, demonstrating how the program fosters problem-solving and kindness. Financial Literacy: Real Money in a Digital World Starting March 4th, United Bank will teach "The Money Playbook," a financial literacy course that addresses a skill often overlooked in traditional education. Pete Warren and his team from United Bank, named the YDC as their premier community partner, will incorporate games and interactive elements to make financial concepts accessible to young minds. Both Sarah and Janet acknowledge the challenge of teaching financial responsibility in an era of Apple Pay and Venmo, where money doesn't feel tangible. The course aims to help children understand that digital transactions represent real money leaving their accounts—a lesson that will serve them throughout their lives. Midday at the YDC: Homeschool and Beyond Launched on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 AM to 1 PM, this program welcomes homeschool families and anyone else who wants to use the YDC's resources during the day. For just $5 (free the first Tuesday of each month), children can access game rooms, art supplies, reading rooms, and even an eSports room. When Women Lead: Amplifying Voices In March, Sarah will launch a speaker series close to her heart: When Women Lead. Every Wednesday from 6 to 7 PM, panels of accomplished Winchester women will discuss different aspects of female leadership. The series kicks off March 4th with "The Path to the Table," featuring Lauren Clouse, Blair Jewell, Adrienne Patrick, and Karis Frey. Subsequent weeks explore "Leadership in Motion" (March 11th), "Building What Lasts" (March 18th), and "Shaping What's Next" (March 25th). Each panel brings together women from diverse professional backgrounds—teachers, healthcare leaders, city officials, and business executives. While geared toward women, Sarah stresses that men are equally welcome. In fact, she hopes to see mothers bringing their teenage sons, recognizing that change happens when everyone participates in these conversations. The Power of Partnership Throughout the conversation, Sarah repeatedly returns to one theme: Winchester's remarkable spirit of collaboration. United Bank doesn't just donate money—they send staff to teach financial literacy. Shenandoah University doesn't just support from afar—they send students and professors to lead programs. Local businesses and civic groups consistently step forward with resources and expertise. Sarah admits she rarely needs to ask for help because community members proactively reach out, asking how they can contribute. This culture of giving back, which Sarah learned from her mother during 36 years at Valley Health, continues to drive the YDC's success. Looking Ahead As the YDC approaches its one-year anniversary in the new location, Sarah's goals remain ambitious yet grounded. The organization plans to revamp its afterschool program, bring back the mentorship initiative, and reimagine Summerfest and Winterfest to meet kids where they are today—not ten steps ahead or behind. Sarah's philosophy centers on trial and error: "Why not try something? If it doesn't work, then we know. We'll move on to the next thing." This willingness to experiment, combined with deep listening to parents, educators, and community stakeholders, positions the YDC to remain relevant and responsive. A Community Investment Ultimately, Sarah views the YDC as more than a youth center—it's an investment in Winchester's future. "Winchester only stays the great place that we all love if we bolster the younger generation," she explains. By providing spaces where children can discover their passions, build confidence, and develop essential life skills, the YDC ensures that the next generation will continue making Winchester a community worth celebrating. For those interested in learning more or getting involved, visit myydc.org or follow the organization on Facebook and Instagram. Whether you're a parent looking for programs, a professional willing to share expertise, or simply someone who believes in investing in youth, the YDC welcomes you to be part of Winchester's ongoing story.

We ride off into the sunset for our winter out west series with Winchester '73, Anthony Mann's engrossing western drama starring James Stewart. It's the story of a man who loses his rifle and who travels the west to get it back. We'll hear Stewart, along with his co-stars Dan Duryea and John McIntire, in episodes of Suspense - Dan Duryea in "The Will to Power" (originally aired on CBS on January 9, 1947); James Stewart in "Mission: Completed" (originally aired on CBS on December 1, 1949); and John McIntire in "The Big Day" (originally aired on CBS on May 26, 1957). Finally, Stewart recreates his role in The Lux Radio Theatre (originally aired on CBS on November 12, 1951).  

Hamburg's bass obsessive Fatwires showcases his joint project w/ Japan's Atsushi Izumi. Exploring hypnotic percussion, heavy low end, + slabs of noise. Catch new music from Bruce, Charli xcx, Charles Hayward, dälek, DJ Producer, Robin Marsden, + Winchester. Plus, there's great cuts from Blur, The Bug, Dead Man's Chest, Nine Inch Nails, Robert Hood, Surgeon, + Tech Itch. Tracklist — https://darkfloor.co.uk/mantisradio365 Join our Patreon — https://patreon.com/mantisradio for exclusive content and bonus material.

A New Era for the SportsPlex On a snow covered Thursday afternoon in Winchester, Virginia, the sounds of laughter and plastic paddles echo through the newly transformed PklPlex. What was once a multipurpose arena hosting basketball, floor hockey, and volleyball has evolved into something entirely different—six championship-quality indoor pickleball courts that are drawing players from teenagers to octogenarians. Owners Tammy LaCroix and Mike Turpin spent over a year searching for the perfect location to open their pickleball club they tell host Janet Michael and co-host Justin Kerns on a recent episode of The Valley Today. After encountering numerous zoning issues with other buildings, they finally connected with the owner of the Winchester SportsPlex last summer. The facility, located at 221 Commonwealth Court just off Interstate 81 in Kernstown, wasn't being used to its full capacity. Consequently, they negotiated a lease for half the building and got to work transforming it into the region's premier indoor pickleball destination. Building Something Special The transformation wasn't simple. First, the team stripped the arena down to bare concrete, removing the old plastic tiles that had served multiple sports. Then, they brought in specialized equipment to prepare the surface for what would become elite-level courts. Using Laykold—a company trusted by USTA tennis facilities worldwide—they applied a seven-layer painting process with sand built into each layer for optimal traction. Moreover, the PklPlex stands out as one of the only facilities on the East Coast to feature plexiglass barriers surrounding the courts. Unlike traditional chain-link fencing, these transparent walls allow spectators to watch every moment of play from the comfortable lounge area. This design choice creates an inviting atmosphere where families can relax on couches, enjoy snacks, and observe players at every skill level. More Than Just a Sport Pickleball's explosive growth didn't happen by accident. Mike, a lifelong tennis player, explains that the pandemic created a perfect storm for the sport's popularity. People desperately needed outdoor exercise combined with social interaction, and pickleball delivered both. Unlike tennis, which takes years to master, newcomers can learn the basics in just 15 to 20 minutes. Furthermore, the sport's accessibility sets it apart. The court measures roughly half the size of a tennis court, players use lightweight paddles instead of heavy rackets, and the wiffle ball moves slower than a tennis ball. Additionally, the "kitchen"—a designated area near the net where players cannot spike the ball—prevents aggressive play and keeps the game friendly. Games only go to 11 points, making matches quick and allowing for frequent rotation among players. Building Community One Game at a Time What truly distinguishes the PklPlex is its emphasis on community. Tammy has created a tiered system of drop-in play sessions with delightfully creative names: Fresh Pickles for beginners, Paddle Rangers for intermediate players, Kitchen Masters for advanced players, and Court Commanders for the elite. Players register online through the Court Reserve app, which shows exactly who else will be playing. The system works brilliantly. Each court accommodates six registered players—four playing while two wait. Every 15 minutes, players rotate, ensuring everyone gets equal court time. When a session fills up, Tammy simply opens another court. Throughout the day, her phone constantly dings with messages as players coordinate their visits. Ages and Stages The membership roster tells an impressive story. Members range from 17 to 80 years old, and recently, the facility's oldest and youngest members faced off across the net. Both held their own, chatting and laughing throughout the match. This intergenerational appeal makes pickleball unique among sports. Families particularly love the flexibility. While members must be 17 or older to play independently, younger children can join their parents on private courts. Parents regularly book courts to play with their kids for an hour, creating quality family time. Meanwhile, high school and college students enjoy a special $5 drop-in rate, compared to the standard $15 visitor fee. No Experience Required For newcomers intimidated by trying a new sport, the PklPlex removes every barrier. The facility provides loaner paddles and balls, eliminating the need for upfront equipment purchases. Professional instructors offer lessons for those seeking to advance their skills, while Frederick County Parks and Recreation runs beginner classes on-site. Most importantly, the culture welcomes absolute beginners. When new players arrive, experienced members actively help them learn rather than dominating the court. Tammy recalls watching an 80-year-old woman with double hip replacements join a game. Despite limited mobility, she possessed an incredible serve from her tennis background. Other players adapted their game to include her, hitting balls within her reach and celebrating her contributions. Perfect for Visitors Justin (Winchester Tourism) emphasizes the facility's appeal for travelers. The Court Reserve app allows visitors from anywhere in the country to find local clubs, check schedules, and book courts before they arrive. Whether someone has two hours to burn on a rainy day or wants to maintain their pickleball routine while traveling, the PklPlex accommodates them. The facility operates Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 10 PM, offering both drop-in sessions and private court rentals. A well-stocked pro shop carries paddles, balls, and accessories for those who want to purchase their own gear. Additionally, the lounge area features ping pong and cornhole—both free to use—making it a complete recreational destination. The Addiction Factor Mike makes a bold claim: "Put a paddle in your hand—it's magic. You'll be addicted to pickleball." He insists he's never met anyone who tried the sport and didn't fall in love with it. The evidence supports him. One member stops by the desk daily to tell Tammy and Mike, "You have given me so much joy." During the grand opening over Christmas break, hundreds of people showed up for free play. Many have since become regular members. Even Mike admits that after working 10 to 15 hours at the facility, he'll be walking out the door when someone asks if he wants to play a game. His answer is always yes. A Sport Named After a Dog Perhaps the most charming detail about pickleball is its origin story. The sport has nothing to do with pickles. Instead, a family in Washington state created the game in the 1980s, and their dog was named Pickles. That simple fact somehow makes the sport even more endearing—a backyard invention that has grown into a nationwide phenomenon, bringing communities together one game at a time. For Winchester residents and visitors alike, the PklPlex offers something increasingly rare: a genuinely inclusive activity where 17-year-olds and 80-year-olds compete on equal footing, where strangers become friends within minutes, and where the only requirement for entry is a willingness to try something new.

How can indie authors raise their game through academic-style rigour? How might AI tools fit into a thoughtful research process without replacing the joy of discovery? Melissa Addey explores the intersection of scholarly discipline, creative writing, and the practical realities of building an author career. In the intro, mystery and thriller tropes [Wish I'd Known Then]; The differences between trad and indie in 2026 [Productive Indie Fiction Writer]; Five phases of an author business [Becca Syme]; Bones of the Deep – J.F. Penn; Today's show is sponsored by Bookfunnel, the essential tool for your author business. Whether it's delivering your reader magnet, sending out advanced copies of your book, handing out ebooks at a conference, or fulfilling your digital sales to readers, BookFunnel does it all. Check it out at bookfunnel.com/thecreativepenn This show is also supported by my Patrons. Join my Community at Patreon.com/thecreativepenn Melissa Addey is an award-winning historical fiction author with a PhD in creative writing from the University of Surrey. She was the Leverhulme Trust Writer in Residence at the British Library, and now works as campaigns lead for the Alliance of Independent Authors. You can listen above or on your favorite podcast app or read the notes and links below. Here are the highlights and the full transcript is below. Show Notes Making the leap from a corporate career to full-time writing with a young family Why Melissa pursued a PhD in creative writing and how it fuelled her author business What indie authors can learn from academic rigour when researching historical fiction The problems with academic publishing—pricing, accessibility, and creative restrictions Organising research notes, avoiding accidental plagiarism, and knowing when to stop researching Using AI tools effectively as part of the research process without losing your unique voice You can find Melissa at MelissaAddey.com. Transcript of the interview with Melissa Addey JOANNA: Melissa Addey is an award-winning historical fiction author with a PhD in creative writing from the University of Surrey. She was the Leverhulme Trust Writer in Residence at the British Library, and now works as campaigns lead for the Alliance of Independent Authors. Welcome back to the show, Melissa. MELISSA: Hello. Thank you for having me. JOANNA: It's great to have you back. You were on almost a decade ago, in December 2016, talking about merchandising for authors. That is really a long time ago. So tell us a bit more about you and how you got into writing and self-publishing. MELISSA: I had a regular job in business and I was writing on the side. I did a couple of writing courses, and then I started trying to get published, and that took seven years of jumping through hoops. There didn't seem to be much progress. At some point, I very nearly had a small publisher, but we clashed over the cover because there was a really quite hideous suggestion that was not going to work. I think by that point I was really tired of jumping through hoops, really trying to play the game traditional publishing-wise. I just went, you know what? I've had enough now. I've done everything that was asked of me and it's still not working. I'll just go my own way. I think at the time that would've been 2015-ish. Suddenly, self-publishing was around more. I could see people and hear people talking about it, and I thought, okay, let's read everything there is to know about this. I had a little baby at the time and I would literally print off stuff during the day to read—probably loads of your stuff—and read it at two o'clock in the morning breastfeeding babies. Then I'd go, okay, I think I understand that bit now, I'll understand the next bit, and so on. So I got into self-publishing and I really, really enjoyed it. I've been doing it ever since. I'm now up to 20 books in the last 10 or 11 years. As you say, I did the creative writing PhD along the way, working with ALLi and doing workshops for others—mixing and matching lots of different things. I really enjoy it. JOANNA: You mentioned you had a job before in business. Are you full-time in all these roles that you're doing now, or do you still have that job? MELISSA: No, I'm full-time now. I only do writing-related things. I left that in 2015, so I took a jump. I was on maternity leave and I started applying for jobs to go back to, and I suddenly felt like, oh, I really don't want to. I want to do the writing. I thought, I've got about one year's worth of savings. I could try and do the jump. I remember saying to my husband, “Do you think it would be possible if I tried to do the jump? Would that be okay?” There was this very long pause while he thought about it. But the longer the pause went on, the more I was thinking, ooh, he didn't say no, that is out of the question, financially we can't do that. I thought, ooh, it's going to work. So I did the jump. JOANNA: That's great. I did something similar and took a massive pay cut and downsized and everything back in the day. Having a supportive partner is so important. The other thing I did—and I wonder if you did too—I said to Jonathan, my husband, if within a year this is not going in a positive direction, then I'll get another job. How long did you think you would leave it before you just gave up? And how did that go? Because that beginning is so difficult, especially with a new baby. MELISSA: I thought, well, I'm at home anyway, so I do have more time than if I was in a full-time job. The baby sleeps sometimes—if you're lucky—so there are little gaps where you could really get into it. I had a year of savings/maternity pay going on, so I thought I've got a year. And the funny thing that happened was within a few months, I went back to my husband and I was like, I don't understand. I said, all these doors are opening—they weren't massive, but they were doors opening. I said, but I've wanted to be a writer for a long time and none of these doors have opened before. He said, “Well, it's because you really committed. It's because you jumped. And when you jump, sometimes the universe is on board and goes, yes, all right then, and opens some doors for you.” It really felt like that. Even little things—like Writing Magazine gave me a little slot to do an online writer-in-residence thing. Just little doors opened that felt like you were getting a nod, like, yes, come on then, try. Then the PhD was part of that. I applied to do that and it came with a studentship, which meant I had three years of funding coming in. That was one of the biggest creative gifts that's ever been given to me—three years of knowing you've got enough money coming in that you can just try and make it work. By the time that finished, the royalties had taken over from the studentship. That was such a gift. JOANNA: A couple of things there. I've got to ask about that funding. You're saying it was a gift, but that money didn't just magically appear. You worked really hard to get that funding, I presume. MELISSA: I did, yes. You do have to do the work for it, just to be clear. My sister had done a PhD in an entirely different subject. She said, “You should do a PhD in creative writing.” I said, “That'd be ridiculous. Nobody is going to fund that. Who's going to fund that?” She said, “Oh, they might. Try.” So I tried, and the deadline was something stupid like two weeks away. I tried and I got shortlisted, but I didn't get it. I thought, ah, but I got shortlisted with only two weeks to try. I'll try again next year then. So then I tried again the next year and that's when I got it. It does take work. You have to put in quite a lot of effort to make your case. But it's a very joyful thing if you get one. JOANNA: So let's go to the bigger question: why do a PhD in creative writing? Let's be clear to everyone—you don't need even a bachelor's degree to be a successful author. Stephen King is a great example of someone who isn't particularly educated in terms of degrees. He talks about writing his first book while working at a laundry. You can be very successful with no formal education. So why did you want to do a PhD? What drew you to academic research? MELISSA: Absolutely. I would briefly say, I often meet people who feel they must do a qualification before they're allowed to write. I say, do it if you'd like to, but you don't have to. You could just practise the writing. I fully agree with that. It was a combination of things. I do actually like studying. I do actually enjoy the research—that's why I do historical research. I like that kind of work. So that's one element. Another element was the funding. I thought, if I get that funding, I've got three years to build up a back catalogue of books, to build up the writing. It will give me more time. So that was a very practical financial issue. Also, children. My children were very little. I had a three-year-old and a baby, and everybody went, “Are you insane? Doing a PhD with a three-year-old and a baby?” But the thing about three-year-olds and babies is they're quite intellectually boring. Emotionally, very engaging—on a number of levels, good, bad, whatever—but they're not very intellectually stimulating. You're at home all day with two small children who think that hide and seek is the highlight of intellectual difficulty because they've hidden behind the curtains and they're shuffling and giggling. I felt I needed something else. I needed something for me that would be interesting. I've always enjoyed passing on knowledge. I've always enjoyed teaching people, workshops, in whatever field I was in. I thought, if I want to do that for writing at some point, it will sound more important if I've done a PhD. Not that you need that to explain how to do writing to someone if you do a lot of writing. But there were all these different elements that came together. JOANNA: So to summarise: you enjoy the research, it's an intellectual challenge, you've got the funding, and there is something around authority. In terms of a PhD—and just for listeners, I'm doing a master's at the moment in death, religion, and culture. MELISSA: Your topic sounds fascinating. JOANNA: It is interesting because, same as you, I enjoy research. Both of us love research as part of our fiction process and our nonfiction. I'm also enjoying the intellectual challenge, and I've also considered this idea of authority in an age of AI when it is increasingly easy to generate books—let's just say it, it's easy to generate books. So I was like, well, how do I look at this in a more authoritative way? I wanted to talk to you because even just a few months back into it—and I haven't done an academic qualification for like two decades—it struck me that the academic rigour is so different. What lessons can indie authors learn from this kind of academic rigour? What do you think of in terms of the rigour and what can we learn? MELISSA: I think there are a number of things. First of all, really making sure that you are going to the quality sources for things—the original sources, the high-quality versions of things. Not secondhand, but going back to those primary sources. Not “somebody said that somebody said something.” Well, let's go back to the original. Have a look at that, because you get a lot from that. I think you immerse yourself more deeply. Someone can tell you, “This is how they spoke in the 1800s.” If you go and read something that was written in the 1800s, you get a better sense of that than just reading a dictionary of slang that's been collated for you by somebody else. So I think that immerses you more deeply. Really sticking with that till you've found interesting things that spark creativity in you. I've seen people say, “I used to do all the historical research. Nowadays I just fact-check. I write what I want to write and I fact-check.” I think, well, that's okay, but you won't find the weird little things. I tend to call it “the footnotes of history.” You won't find the weird little things that really make something come alive, that really make a time and a place come alive. I've got a scene in one of my Regency romances—which actually I think are less full of historical emphasis than some of my other work—where a man gives a woman a gift. It's supposed to be a romantic gift and maybe slightly sensual. He could have given her a fan and I could have fact-checked and gone, “Are there fans? Yes, there are fans. Do they have pretty romantic poems on them? Yes, they do. Okay, that'll do.” Actually, if you go round and do more research than that, you discover they had things like ribbons that held up your stockings, on which they wrote quite smutty things in embroidery. That's a much more sexy and interesting gift to give in that scene. But you don't find that unless you go doing a bit of research. If I just fact-check, I'm not going to find that because it would never have occurred to me to fact-check it in the first place. JOANNA: I totally agree with you. One of the wonderful things about research—and I also like going to places—is you might be somewhere and see something that gives you an idea you never, ever would have found in a book or any other way. I used to call it “the serendipity of the stacks” in the physical library. You go looking for a particular book and then you're in that part of the shelf and you find several other books that you never would have looked for. I think it's encouraging people, as you're saying, but I also think you have to love it. MELISSA: Yes. I think some people find it a bit of a grind, or they're frightened by it and they think, “Have I done enough?” JOANNA: Mm-hmm. MELISSA: I get asked that a lot when I talk about writing historical fiction. People go, “But when do I stop? How do I know it's enough? How do I know there wasn't another book that would have been the book? Everyone will go, ‘Oh, how did you not read such-and-such?'” I always say there are two ways of finding out when you can stop. One is when you get to the bibliographies, you look through and you go, “Yep, read that, read that, read that. Nah, I know that one's not really what I wanted.” You're familiar with those bibliographies in a way that at the beginning you're not. At the beginning, every single bibliography, you haven't read any of it. So that's quite a good way of knowing when to stop. The other way is: can you write ordinary, everyday life? I don't start writing a book till I can write everyday life in that historical era without notes. I will obviously have notes if I'm doing a wedding or a funeral or a really specific battle or something. Everyday life, I need to be able to just write that out of my own head. You need to be confident enough to do that. JOANNA: One of the other problems I've heard from academics—people who've really come out of academia and want to write something more pop, even if it's pop nonfiction or fiction—they're also really struggling. It is a different game, isn't it? For people who might be immersed in academia, how can they release themselves into doing something like self-publishing? Because there's still a lot of stigma within academia. MELISSA: You're going to get me on the academic publishing rant now. I think academic publishing is horrendous. Academics are very badly treated. I know quite a lot of academics and they have to do all the work. Nobody's helping them with indexing or anything like that. The publisher will say things like, “Well, could you just cut 10,000 words out of that?” Just because of size. Out of somebody's argument that they're making over a whole work. No consideration for that. The royalties are basically zilch. I've seen people's royalty statements come in, and the way they price the books is insane. They'll price a book at 70 pounds. I actually want that book for my research and I'm hesitating because I can't be buying all of them at that price. That's ridiculous. I've got people who are friends or family who bring out a book, and I'm like, well, I would gladly buy your book and read it. It's priced crazy. It's priced only for institutions. I think actually, if academia was written a little more clearly and open to the lay person—which if you are good at your work, you should be able to do—and priced a bit more in line with other books, that would maybe open up people to reading more academia. You wouldn't have to make it “pop” as you say. I quite like pop nonfiction. But I don't think there would have to be such a gulf between those two. I think you could make academic work more readable generally. I read someone's thesis recently and they'd made a point at the beginning of saying—I can't remember who it was—that so-and-so academic's point of view was that it should be readable and they should be writing accordingly. I thought, wow, I really admired her for doing that. Next time I'm doing something like that, I should be putting that at the front as well. But the fact that she had to explain that at the beginning… It wasn't like words of one syllable throughout the whole thing. I thought it was a very quality piece of writing, but it was perfectly readable to someone who didn't know about the topic. JOANNA: I might have to get that name from you because I've got an essay on the Philosophy of Death. And as you can imagine, there's a heck of a lot of big words. MELISSA: I know. I've done a PhD, but I still used to tense up a little bit thinking they're going to pounce on me. They're going to say that I didn't talk academic enough, I didn't sound fancy enough. That's not what it should be about, really. In a way, you are locking people out of knowledge, and given that most academics are paid for by public funds, that knowledge really ought to be a little more publicly accessible. JOANNA: I agree on the book price. I'm also buying books for my course that aren't in the library. Some of them might be 70 pounds for the ebook, let alone the print book. What that means is that I end up looking for secondhand books, when of course the money doesn't go to the author or the publisher. The other thing that happens is it encourages piracy. There are people who openly talk about using pirate sites for academic works because it's just too expensive. If I'm buying 20 books for my home library, I can't be spending that kind of money. Why is it so bad? Why is it not being reinvented, especially as we have done with indie authors for the wider genres? Has this at all moved into academia? MELISSA: I think within academia there's a fear because there's the peer reviews and it must be proven to be absolutely correct and agreed upon by everybody. I get that. You don't want some complete rubbish in there. I do think there's space to come up with a different system where you could say, “So-and-so is professor of whatever at such-and-such a university. I imagine what they have to say might be interesting and well-researched.” You could have some sort of kite mark. You could have something that then allows for self-publishing to take over a bit. I do just think their system is really, really poor. They get really reined in on what they're allowed to write about. Alison Baverstock, who is a professor now at Kingston University and does stuff about publishing and master's programmes, started writing about self-publishing because she thought it was really interesting. This was way back. JOANNA: I remember. I did one of those surveys. MELISSA: She got told in no uncertain terms, “Do not write about this. You will ruin your career.” She stuck with it. She was right to stick with it. But she was told by senior academics, “Do not write about self-publishing. You're just embarrassing yourself. It's just vanity press.” They weren't even being allowed to write about really quite interesting phenomena that were happening. Just from a historical point of view, that was a really interesting rise of self-publishing, and she was being told not to write about it. JOANNA: It's funny, that delay as well. I'm looking to maybe do my thesis on how AI is impacting death and the death industry. And yet it's such a fast-moving thing. MELISSA: Yes. JOANNA: Sometimes it can take a year, two years or more to get a paper through the process. MELISSA: Oh, yes. It moves really, really fast. Like you say, by the time it comes out, people are going, “Huh? That's really old.” And you'll be going, “No, it's literally two years.” But yes, very, very slow. JOANNA: Let's come back to how we can help other people who might not want to be doing academic-level stuff. One of the things I've found is organising notes, sources, references. How do you manage that? Any tips for people? They might not need to do footnotes for their historical novel, but they might want to organise their research. What are your thoughts? MELISSA: I used to do great big enormous box files and print vast quantities of stuff. Each box file would be labelled according to servant life, or food, or seasons, or whatever. I've tried various different things. I'm moving more and more now towards a combination of books on the shelf, which I do like, and papers and other materials that are stored on my computer. They'll be classified according to different parts of daily life, essentially. Because when you write historical fiction, you have to basically build the whole world again for that era. You have to have everything that happens in daily life, everything that happens on special events, all of those things. So I'll have it organised by those sorts of topics. I'll read it and go through it until I'm comfortable with daily life. Then special things—I'll have special notes on that that can talk me through how you run a funeral or a wedding or whatever, because that's quite complicated to just remember in your head. MELISSA: I always do historical notes at the end. They really matter to me. When I read historical fiction, I really like to read that from the author. I'll say, “Right, these things are true”—especially things that I think people will go, “She made that up. That is not true.” I'll go, “No, no, these are true.” These other things I've fudged a little, or I've moved the timeline a bit to make the story work better. I try to be fairly clear about what I did to make it into a story, but also what is accurate, because I want people to get excited about that timeline. Occasionally if there's been a book that was really important, I'll mention it in there because I don't want to have a proper bibliography, but I do want to highlight certain books. If you got excited by this novel, you could go off and read that book and it would take you into the nonfiction side of it. JOANNA: I'm similar with my author's notes. I've just done the author's note for Bones of the Deep, which has some merfolk in it, and I've got a book on Merpeople. It's awesome. It's just a brilliant book. I'm like, this has to go in. You could question whether that is really nonfiction or something else. But I think that's really important. Just to be more practical: when you're actually writing, what tools do you use? I use Scrivener and I keep all my research there. I'm using EndNote for academic stuff. MELISSA: I've always just stuck to Word. I did get Scrivener and played with it for a while, but I felt like I've already got a way of doing it, so I'll just carry on with that. So I mostly just do Word. I have a lot of notes, so I'll have notepads that have got my notes on specific things, and they'll have page numbers that go back to specific books in case I need to go and double-check that again. You mentioned citations, and that's fascinating to me. Do you know the story about Angle of Repose by Wallace Stegner? It won the Pulitzer. It's a novel, but he used 10% of that novel—and it's a fairly slim novel—10% of it is actually letters written by somebody else, written by a woman before his time. He includes those and works with them in the story. He mentioned her very briefly, like, “Oh, and thanks to the relatives of so-and-so.” Very brief. He got accused of plagiarism for using that much of it by another part of her family who hadn't agreed to it. I've always thought it's because he didn't give enough credence to her. He didn't give her enough importance. If he'd said, “This was the woman who wrote this stuff. It's fascinating. I loved it. I wanted to creatively respond and engage with it”—I think that wouldn't have happened at all. That's why I think it's quite important when there are really big, important elements that you're using to acknowledge those. JOANNA: That's part of the academic rigour too— You can barely have a few of your own thoughts without referring to somebody else's work and crediting them. What's so interesting to me in the research process is, okay, I think this, but in order to say it, I'm going to have to go find someone else who thought this first and wrote a paper on it. MELISSA: I think you would love a PhD. When you've done a master's, go and do a PhD as well. Because it was the first time in academia that I genuinely felt I was allowed my own thoughts and to invent stuff of my own. I could go, “Oh no, I've invented this theory and it's this.” I didn't have to constantly go, “As somebody else said, as somebody else said.” I was like, no, no. This is me. I said this thing. I wasn't allowed to in my master's, and I found it annoying. I remember thinking, but I'm trying to have original thoughts here. I'm trying to bring something new to it. In a PhD, you're allowed to do that because you're supposed to be contributing to knowledge. You're supposed to be bringing a new thing into the world. That was a glorious thing to finally be allowed to do. JOANNA: I must say I couldn't help myself with that. I've definitely put my own opinion. But a part of why I mention it is the academic rigour—it's actually quite good practice to see who else has had these thoughts before. Speed is one of the biggest issues in the indie author community. Some of the stuff you were talking about—finding original sources, going to primary sources, the top-quality stuff, finding the weird little things—all of that takes more time than, for example, just running a deep research report on Gemini or Claude or ChatGPT. You can do both. You can use that as a starting point, which I definitely do. But then the point is to go back and read the original stuff. On this timeframe— Why do you think research is worth doing? It's important for academic reasons, but personal growth as well. MELISSA: Yes, I think there's a joy to be had in the research. When I go and stand in a location, by that point I'm not measuring things and taking photos—I've done all of that online. I'm literally standing there feeling what it is to be there. What does it smell like? What does it feel like? Does it feel very enclosed or very open? Is it a peaceful place or a horrible place? That sensory research becomes very important. All of the book research before that should lead you into the sensory research, which is then also a joy to do. There's great pleasure in it. As you say, it slows things down. What I tend to say to people if they want to speed things up again is: write in a series. Because once you've done all of that research and you just write one book and then walk away, that's a lot. That really slows you down. If you then go, “Okay, well now I'm going to write four books, five books, six books, still in that place and time”—obviously each book will need a little more research, but it won't need that level of starting-from-scratch research. That can help in terms of speeding it back up again. Recently I wrote some Regency romances to see what that was like. I'd done all my basic research, and then I thought, right, now I want to write a historical novel which could have been Victorian or could have been Regency. It had an openness to it. I thought, well, I've just done all the research for Regency, so I'll stick with that era. Why go and do a whole other piece of research when I've only written three books in it so far? I'll just take that era and work with that. So there are places to make up the time again a bit. But I do think there's a joy in it as well. JOANNA: I just want to come back to the plagiarism thing. I discovered that you can plagiarise yourself in academia, which is quite interesting. For example, my books How to Write a Novel and How to Write Nonfiction—they're aimed at different audiences. They have lots of chapters that are different, but there's a chapter on dictation. I thought, why would I need to write the same chapter again? I'm just going to put the same chapter in. It's the same process. Then I only recently learned that you can plagiarise yourself. I did not credit myself for that original chapter. MELISSA: How dare you not credit yourself! JOANNA: But can you talk a bit about that? Where are the lines here? I'm never going to credit myself. I think that's frankly ridiculous. MELISSA: No, that's silly. I mean, it depends what you're doing. In your case, that completely makes sense. It would be really peculiar of you to sit down and write a whole new chapter desperately trying not to copy what you'd said in a chapter about exactly the same topic. That doesn't make any sense. JOANNA: I guess more in the wider sense. Earlier you mentioned you keep notes and you put page numbers by them. I think the point is with research, a lot of people worry about accidental plagiarism. You write a load of notes on a book and then it just goes into your brain. Perhaps you didn't quote people properly. It's definitely more of an issue in nonfiction. You have to keep really careful notes. Sometimes I'm copying out a quote and I'll just naturally maybe rewrite that quote because the way they've put it didn't make sense, or I use a contraction or something. It's just the care in note-taking and then citing people. MELISSA: Yes. When I talk to people about nonfiction, I always say, you're basically joining a conversation. I mean, you are in fiction as well, but not as obviously. I say, well, why don't you read the conversation first? Find out what the conversation is in your area at the moment, and then what is it that you're bringing that's different? The most likely reason for you to end up writing something similar to someone else is that you haven't understood what the conversation was, and you need to be bringing your own thing to it. Then even if you're talking about the same topic, you might talk about it in a different way, and that takes you away from plagiarism because you're bringing your own view to it and your own direction to it. JOANNA: It's an interesting one. I think it's just the care. Taking more care is what I would like people to do. So let's talk about AI because AI tools can be incredible. I do deep research reports with Gemini and Claude and ChatGPT as a sort of “give me an overview and tell me some good places to start.” The university I'm with has a very hard line, which is: AI can be used as part of a research process, but not for writing. What are your thoughts on AI usage and tools? How can people balance that? MELISSA: Well, I'm very much a newbie compared to you. I follow you—the only person that describes how to use it with any sense at all, step by step. I'm very new to it, but I'm going to go back to the olden days. Sometimes I say to people, when I'm talking about how I do historical research, I start with Wikipedia. They look horrified. I'm like, no. That's where you have to get the overview from. I want an overview of how you dress in ancient Rome. I need a quick snapshot of that. Then I can go off and figure out the details of that more accurately and with more detail. I think AI is probably extremely good for that—getting the big picture of something and going, okay, this is what the field's looking like at the moment. These are the areas I'm going to need to burrow down into. It's doing that work for you quickly so that you're then in a position to pick up from that point. It gets you off to a quicker start and perhaps points you in the direction of the right people to start with. I'm trying to write a PhD proposal at the moment because I'm an idiot and want to do a second one. With that, I really did think, actually, AI should write this. Because the original concept is mine. I know nothing about it—why would I know anything about it? I haven't started researching it. This is where AI should go, “Well, in this field, there are these people. They've done these things.” Then you could quickly check that nobody's covered your thing. It would actually speed up all of that bit, which I think would be perfectly reasonable because you don't know anything about it yet. You're not an expert. You have the original idea, and then after that, then you should go off and do your own research and the in-depth quality of it. I think for a lot of things that waste authors' time—if you're applying for a grant or a writer-in-residence or things like that—it's a lot of time wasting filling in long, boring forms. “Could you make an artist statement and a something and a blah?” You're like, yes, yes, I could spend all day at my desk doing that. There's a moment where you start thinking, could you not just allow the AI to do this or much of it? JOANNA: Yes. Or at least, in that case, I'd say one of the very useful things is doing deep searches. As you were mentioning earlier about getting the funding—if I was to consider a PhD, which the thought has crossed my mind—I would use AI tools to do searches for potential sources of funding and that kind of research. In fact, I found this course at Winchester because I asked ChatGPT. It knows a lot about me because I chat with it all the time. I was talking about hitting 50 and these are the things I'm really interested in and what courses might interest me. Then it found it for me. That was quite amazing in itself. I'd encourage people to consider using it for part of the research process. But then all the papers it cites or whatever—then you have to go download those, go read them, do that work yourself. MELISSA: Yes, because that's when you bring your viewpoint to something. You and I could read the exact same paper and choose very different parts of it to write about and think about, because we're coming at it from different points of view and different journeys that we're trying to explore. That's where you need the individual to come in. It wouldn't be good enough to just have a generic overview from AI that we both try and slot into our work, because we would want something different from it. JOANNA: I kind of laugh when people say, “Oh, I can tell when it's AI.” I'm like, you might be able to tell when it's AI writing if nobody has taken that personal spin, but that's not the way we use it. If you're using it that way, that's not how those of us who are independent thinkers are using it. We're strong enough in our thoughts that we're using it as a tool. You're a confident person—intellectually and creatively confident—but I feel like some people maybe don't have that. Some people are not strong enough to resist what an AI might suggest. Any thoughts on that? MELISSA: Yes. When I first tried using AI with very little guidance from anyone, it just felt easy but very wooden and not very related to me. Then I've done webinars with you, and that was really useful—to watch somebody actually live doing the batting back and forth. That became a lot more interesting because I really like bouncing ideas and messing around with things and brainstorming, essentially, but with somebody else involved that's batting stuff back to you. “What does that look like?” “No, I didn't mean that at all.” “How about what does this look like?” “Oh no, no, not like that.” “Oh yes, a bit like that, but a bit more like whatever.” I remember doing that and talking to someone about it, going, “Oh, that's really quite an interesting use of it.” And they said, “Why don't you use a person?” I said, “Well, because who am I going to call at 8:30 in the morning on a Thursday and go, ‘Look, I want to spend two hours batting back and forth ideas, but I don't want you to talk about your stuff at all. Just my stuff. And you have to only think about my stuff for two hours. And you have to be very well versed in my stuff as well. Could you just do that?'” Who's going to do that for you? JOANNA: I totally agree with you. Before Christmas, I was doing a paper. It was an art history thing. We had to pick a piece of art or writing and talk about Christian ideas of hell and how it emerged. I was writing this essay and going back and forth with Claude at the time. My husband came in and saw the fresco I was writing about. He said, “No one's going to talk to you about this. Nobody.” MELISSA: Yes, exactly. JOANNA: Nobody cares. MELISSA: Exactly. Nobody cares as much as you. And they're not prepared to do that at 8:30 on a Thursday morning. They've got other stuff to do. JOANNA: It's great to hear because I feel like we're now at the point where these tools are genuinely super useful for independent work. I hope that more people might try that. JOANNA: Okay, we're almost out of time. Where can people find you and your books online? Also, tell us a bit about the types of books you have. MELISSA: I mostly write historical fiction. As I say, I've wandered my way through history—I'm a travelling minstrel. I've done ancient Rome, medieval Morocco, 18th century China, and I'm into Regency England now. So that's a bit closer to home for once. I'm at MelissaAddey.com and you can go and have a bit of a browse and download a free novel if you want. Try me out. JOANNA: Brilliant. Well, thanks so much for your time, Melissa. MELISSA: That was great. Thank you. It was fun. The post Research Like An Academic, Write Like an Indie With Melissa Addey first appeared on The Creative Penn.

A Race Against the Cold When temperatures plummet below freezing in Winchester, Virginia, Robyn Miller's phone doesn't stop ringing. As Executive Director of WATTS (Winchester Area Temporary Transitional Shelter), she oversees a lifesaving operation that runs 24 hours a day during the coldest months of the year.  In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael talks with Robyn about how this winter has tested her team like never before, with sustained sub-zero temperatures creating dangerous conditions for the area's homeless population. The organization's founding story serves as a stark reminder of what's at stake. Years ago, someone froze to death on Winchester's streets because they had nowhere to go. That tragedy sparked the creation of WATTS, and today, Robyn remains laser-focused on ensuring it never happens again. Two Shelters, One Mission WATTS operates through a dual-facility model designed to meet different needs throughout the day. First, the warming center at Montague Avenue United Methodist Church opens its doors from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM providing a safe haven during daylight hours. During this brutal cold snap, staff have extended hours beyond their typical 1:00 PM closing time, recognizing that many people won't seek overnight shelter for various personal reasons. Meanwhile, the overnight shelter rotates through 21 host churches across the community, currently welcoming up to 45 guests each night from 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM. This week, Christ Episcopal Church downtown serves as the temporary home, conveniently located where guests can walk directly to the entrance without needing bus transportation. Breaking Down Barriers to Safety Getting people through the door requires more than just opening it. Robyn explains that safety concerns keep many homeless individuals from seeking shelter, so WATTS has implemented strict protocols to address these fears. Staff conduct light searches to ensure no drugs, alcohol, or weapons enter the facility, creating an environment where everyone can rest without worry. Furthermore, the shelter maintains two staff members on duty throughout the night, checking on guests regularly. This vigilance proves especially critical given that many residents struggle with serious health issues, including seizures. The staff doesn't just monitor—they actively care, ensuring each person breathes safely through the night. The entry requirements remain intentionally minimal. Anyone over 18 can walk in and give a name—it doesn't even have to be their real one. Guests need only bring a light bag of necessities, a policy designed to prevent bedbug infestations while still accommodating essential belongings. Beyond a Warm Bed While immediate shelter saves lives, WATTS aims higher. The organization employs dedicated case managers who work with guests willing to take the next steps toward stability. Already in January alone, the team has housed five people and helped three others enter rehabilitation programs. Additionally, they've assisted two individuals in returning to their home communities outside the area. This comprehensive approach extends to WATTS' partnership with the Winchester Police Department's Addiction Recovery Program and their ownership of two transitional homes through a collaboration with 143 Transformations. Robyn emphasizes a crucial point: you can't simply hand someone who's been chronically homeless for 13 years the keys to an apartment and expect success. Instead, staff work daily with residents, helping them relearn or update skills for navigating systems that provide food, transportation, and other essential services. The Community Responds The warming center's current needs reflect the intensity of this winter's demands. Coffee flies off the shelves—Robyn reports they're down to their last five pounds of sugar. Guests particularly appreciate flavored creamers, a small luxury that brings comfort during difficult times. Beyond beverages, the center welcomes snacks, baked goods, and even gallons of milk. Moreover, WinReady bus cards have become invaluable. Many WATTS guests maintain employment and need reliable transportation to work, while others require rides to medical appointments. With sidewalks transformed into what local news dubbed "snowcrete" - concrete- hard ice impossible to remove - safe transportation has become even more critical. Counting the Invisible This week marks the annual Point in Time Count, a nationwide effort to quantify homelessness. Volunteers fan out across the region from Harrisonburg to Winchester, visiting encampments, shelters, and motels to ask a simple question: are you homeless? The count typically reveals around 400 people in the region, but Robyn knows the real number tells a different story. Using the McKinney-Vento Rule, advocates multiply the official count by ten, estimating approximately 4,000 people experience homelessness across the area. This discrepancy exists for several reasons: some individuals hide in locations volunteers never find, others refuse to be counted for privacy reasons, and families with children fall under a completely different counting system managed by the State Department of Education. These numbers matter beyond statistics. Federal funding for low-income housing depends directly on these counts, making accurate data essential for addressing the crisis long-term. The Coldest Night of the Year On February 28th, WATTS will host its largest fundraiser, responsible for a quarter of the organization's operational budget. The Coldest Night of the Year walk brings together hundreds of community members for a simple 2K stroll through downtown Winchester, with a more challenging 5K option winding through the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley. Last year, 800 participants braved the elements. This year, Robyn hopes for even more, especially since the event will feature guest speaker Lauryn Ricketts alongside a former WATTS guest who now works for the organization. This employee will share her firsthand experience of falling into homelessness and the tremendous effort required to escape it. The walk serves multiple purposes beyond fundraising. Guests currently experiencing homelessness watch participants pass by, seeing tangible proof that their community hasn't forgotten them. Many of these individuals grew up in Winchester—this is their home—and they often express feeling left behind as the area's costs skyrocket faster than their fixed incomes can match. A Purely Private Mission Unlike many social service organizations, WATTS receives zero state, federal, or local government funding. Every dollar comes from individual donors, fundraising events, and participating churches. This complete reliance on private support makes community engagement not just helpful but absolutely essential. Robyn runs WATTS as a business because it must be one—with insurance, electrical bills, a bus to maintain, trained staff to employ, and operational expenses that don't pause for winter storms. The recent snow has driven costs even higher, yet turning people away simply isn't an option when lives hang in the balance. Looking Ahead As this brutal winter continues, Robyn remains focused on her primary goal: ensuring no one freezes to death on Winchester's streets. The warming center stays open, the overnight shelter rotates through its church partners, and case managers continue working to transition people from temporary shelter to permanent housing. For those wanting to help, the path forward is clear. Donate supplies to the warming center at 102 Montague Avenue between 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Sign up for the Coldest Night of the Year walk at https://cnoy.com/location/winchester or through the WATTS website. Write a check. Share social media posts. Every action counts. Because ultimately, WATTS operates on a simple but powerful principle: everyone deserves a home and a door they can close to be safe. Until that becomes reality for every person in the Winchester area, Robyn and her team will keep fighting the freeze, one guest at a time.

A man left for a duck hunting trip and never came back.For 17 years, the story stayed stuck between “drowning” and “alligators”… until a kidnapping exposed what investigators say was the real pact of silence.This episode covers the disappearance and murder of Mike Williams, and how Denise Williams and Brian Winchester became the center of a case built on secrets, life insurance, and a body buried in Florida mud.************************************************************************************************Podcast Promo: Darkcast Network*************************************************************************************************Do you have thoughts about this case, or is there a specific true crime case you'd like to hear about? Let me know with an email or a voice message: https://murderandlove.com/contactFind the sources used in this episode and learn more about how to support Love and Murder: Heartbreak to Homicide and gain access to even more cases, including bonus episodes, ad-free and intro-free cases, case files and more at: https://murderandlove.com~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Please take some time to Rate, Share, Subscribe!

“Sonship and Social Cues”Mark 12:35-40Having recently completed our series “None Like Jesus” let's continue to “Behold Him” by embarking on a new study through the Gospel of Mark. Mark's Gospel is the shortest of the four Gospels and it is action-packed from start to finish – as evidenced by the word “immediately” used over 40 times. Mark wrote to believers, probably Roman believers, who were no strangers to persecution. And he wanted to disciple his readers to be strong in their faith by encouraging them to look to their Mighty Messiah, the Son of God, who remained steadfastly faithful even while becoming their Suffering Servant who died for them. Mark's Gospel is a call to all believers to fearlessly “Follow Jesus” because they can trust Him completely.

Vont stirs the pot over your kids' names, hear from Brian from Snap Fitness, and more!

Vont stirs the pot over your kids' names, hear from Brian from Snap Fitness, and more!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.