Let's Be Friends: Friends of Old Town Origin Story

Host Janet Michael spends the day in Old Town Winchester, sitting down with Brady Cloven, Executive Director of Friends of Old Town Winchester, and Holly Redding, board chair of Friends of Old Town and co-owner of Winchester Brew Works. They cover the nonprofit's mission, big upcoming events, and what's new at the brewery. Topics Covered What Friends of Old Town Winchester actually is — and why it's not a city department How the organization transitioned to an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit three years ago The story behind Brady's hiring process (including a three-hour walking interview in a full suit) Progress on the Taylor Pavilion renovation — roof going on now, on track for completion before Wine Fest The construction outside Winchester Brew Works — a new parking garage and three five-story luxury apartment buildings coming to North Cameron Street Winchester Brew Works' new and improved patio, set to open before Apple Blossom Winchester Brew Works' 10th Anniversary celebration on May 16th, featuring throwback beers from their original grand opening menu Hop Blossom Craft Beer Festival — June 6th, tarot-themed for its 13th year, featuring local breweries, cideries, non-alcoholic options, ready-to-drink cocktails, tarot card readers, and vendors from Moon Phased How Winchester Brew Works was the first women-owned brewery in Virginia and the first brewery in Old Town Winchester What a typical night at Winchester Brew Works looks like — 15+ beers, cocktails, private event options, and capacity for 160 guests The "Let's Be Friends" monthly giving program — support Friends of Old Town for as little as $5/month at friendsofoldtown.org Upcoming Apple Blossom kickoff party at Bistro Sojo on April 30th — $55/person, all-you-can-eat buffet, with proceeds benefiting the Highland Food Pantry Public meeting on April 21st — City of Winchester presenting renderings for the permanent closure of Boscawen Street Links & Resources Friends of Old Town Winchester: friendsofoldtown.org Instagram: @FriendsOfOldTownWinc Facebook: Friends of Old Town Winchester Brew Works: Follow on Facebook for events and updates Hot Blossom tickets: hopblossom.com — also available at Winchester Brew Works tasting room Bistro Sojo: Check Facebook for Apple Blossom kickoff ticket availability Winchester Brew Works Hours Monday–Thursday: 4–9 PM Friday–Saturday: 2–10 PM Sunday: 2–6 PM