Town Talk

Mayo Carter and Danae Peckler preview Victory and Valor: World War II 80th Anniversary, a two-day commemorative event celebrating the legacy of the Greatest Generation. On Friday night, guests can step back in time at a lively USO Dance held at the historic former USO Club—now the Dorothy Hart Community Center on Canal Street—with period music, dancing, and vintage attire encouraged. Saturday's events include a community blood drive and an open house featuring exhibits and stories from the World War II era.  hffi.org

Inform Fredericksburg advocates for transparency in city government.  Matt Kelly and Rick Pullen discuss the professional development travel expenditures of School Board members Jarvis Bailey and Malvina Kay--questioning value to taxpayers. Also a discussion on endorsed city council elections.

President and CEO Sam McKelvey and Curator of Collections Kylie Thomson preview upcoming events including At Home Archivists and Escape the Museum.  We talk about donating items and the FXBG History Archive--fxbghistoryarchive.org The museum is free and open to the public seven days a week this summer, offering fun and educational programs for all ages. Did you know you can also become a museum member and support local history? Membership offers special perks while helping the museum grow its community impact.  famva.org

Terry Rensel and Tim Talbott of the Central Virginia Battlefields Trust highlight the recent purchase of a crucial seven-acre tract along Brock Road and preview their annual fall conference, happening September 12–14.   cvbt.org

Sgt. Steven Curtis of the Stafford County Sheriff's Office and Juanita Shanks of FailSafe-ERA preview  Sounding the Alarm, a special event happening this Saturday from 11 AM to 2 PM at Hope Aglow Empowerment Church in Olde Greenwich. This event is part of an ongoing effort to support that community.   Sgt. Curtis says what the area needs most are people willing to give their time and businesses ready to invest in playgrounds and recreation centers to create safer, more supportive environments for youth.     failsafe-era.org

Dave the Computer Guy with Techs in the Burg on Lafayette Blvd. shares tips for fixing your Wi-Fi, getting ready for the end of Windows 10 (October 14th), and knowing when a VPN helps.  

Collection Development and Discovery Manager-Youth Specialist- Joe Prince and Fredericksburg Assistant Branch Manager and Adult Services Department Head Erin Creighton.  Ever wondered how the library picks its books?  Summer reading is winding down.  Spotsylvania branches will soon have extended hours.  The Library of Things continues to grow.  librarypoint.org                                                                                                                      

Kelsey Bracewell, Director of Education, Insurance, and Membership at the American Canoe Association (ACA), with  insights on Smart Start for Safe Paddling, a safety-focused resource she helped compile. The booklet is designed to introduce paddlers of all levels to essential safety practices. It's part of a broader educational toolkit that also includes a student workbook and a facilitator's guide. She says it's a valuable resource for instructors, schools, camps, and clubs. The material is organized around four key areas: Smart Gear – What to wear and bring for safety and comfort. Smart Plan – Preparing for your trip with weather checks, float plans, and more. Smart Decisions – Making sound choices on and off the water. Smart Skills – The paddling techniques and rescue basics every paddler should know. You can learn more or access the resources at americancanoe.org.

Edie Evans with Rappahannock Area CASA—Court Appointed Special Advocates—tells how they support vulnerable children across the region. CASA volunteers work with children in the court system to ensure their voices are heard and their best interests represented. The next volunteer training begins August 25. The deadline to sign up is August 11. More information  at rappahannockcasa.com. Vic Culp talks about The Downtown Mile on September 6—a one-mile race in downtown Fredericksburg. The race is a major fundraiser for CASA.   Registration and details at runfarc.com.

Megan Samples and Sam Shoukas preview the Point in Time Count on July 24 — a key effort to assess homelessness in the region, done every January and every other summer.  They also spotlight the Regional Housing Summit on Oct. 16 at the Fredericksburg Convention Center — bringing together leaders to tackle housing challenges. Info: gwregion.org Also a look at the System Gaps Analysis, highlighting unmet needs in the region's homelessness response.

Kathleen Daley-Becker and Von Young preview this year's Fur Ball, taking place August 23rd at the Fredericksburg Convention Center! It's the biggest night of the year for animal lovers—and a critical fundraiser supporting the lifesaving work of the Fredericksburg SPCA.  Get your tickets before August 8th. We also shared updates on six  dogs and cats who were rescued from the Texas floods. However, there's been a recent outbreak of Panleukopenia—a dangerous virus affecting cats. (It's the “P” in the FVRCP vaccine!) We discussed what this illness is, how it spreads, and what steps the SPCA is taking to protect feline lives going forward. Plus, a reminder: hot weather poses serious risks for pets. Never leave them in cars, and keep water and shade accessible at all times.   fredspca.org

Adam Blosser talks about how families of students with special needs can prepare for the upcoming school year. We discuss  the importance of the Parent Input Statement in the IEP (Individualized Education Program) process, why your voice matters, and how it shapes educational planning. We also cover how to initiate the IEP process, steps to qualify for services, and what kinds of specific services may be available to support your child's success. Whether you're new to special education or looking to strengthen your advocacy, this conversation offers practical tips and valuable insights.  blosseradvocacy@gmail.com

CEO & Producing Artistic Director Patrick A'Hearn talks about the current production of Next to Normal — the Tony Award- and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical about family, mental health, and resilience. We preview The Sound of Music, opening mid-August. We also look into the behind-the-scenes process of selecting shows and casting actors, offering a glimpse into how each season comes to life at Riverside.

Dr. Paino talks about the value of a liberal arts education, the benefits of a smaller student body/class sizes and the challenges of AI.

Rich Larochelle, Januari and Barb talk about a new way of providing fresh food to the hungry in the region.   rappahannockfarm.org  or email:  rappahannockeducationfarm@gmail.com

Jason Tickle with an overview as we approach the beginning of building in Ladysmith.   How you can get involved as a volunteer. How you can get involved financially.   crrhfh.org

Jason Haag and Chris Bowers. The non-profit provides service dogs to post 9/11 veterans.   Updates on the need for fosters, partnerships with area businesses and the need for monthly donors.   leashesofvalor.org or info@leashesofvalor.org                                                                            

Middle School teacher Cyndi Creighton and Founder/Director Amber Dawson talk about the K-8 school in Fredericksburg.  We talk about the master-based learning model, the curriculum, the outdoor focus and risky play.  bromptoncommunityschool.org

A place and a process--giving voice, hope and healing to abused children.  Elizabeth McNally talks about the importance of forensic nurses in their work.  Safe Harbor has applied for a grant to teach the community how to spot and report abuse.  safeharborva.org

Executive Director Ann Kloeckner talks about disaster planning.  Whether it's from a hurricane, or a tornado, storm or fire, there are documents you will need to produce.  We talk about what to set aside and where to keep it.    To develop a checklist go to ladrc.org.  Info on the work of Legal Aid Works:  legalaidworks.org

Libby Humphries talks about the Fredericksburg Therapeutic Docket.  This new specialty docket in District focuses on misdemeanor offenses where the defendant has serious mental illness.  It will provide earlier interventions than often possible on felony specialty dockets.

Meghann Cotter with an update on the Jeremiah Community.   We also talk about the potential impact of budget cuts, and dealing with the  heat.   micahfredericksburg.org

"Bridging Troubled Waters, A Memoir."   Ambassador Bridgewater--from Fredericksburg--reflects growing up in segregated Fredericksburg to becoming a Foreign Service Officer.   She talks about her time in South Africa and work and friendship with Nelson Mandela.

Sean Bonney and Raya Nickerson.   Sean is getting ready to retire after 30+ years with the library.  Raya is taking his place as the new Director of Community Engagement.   Sean has not only seen the library enter and thrive with technology--he's implemented most of it.   It's a fascinating look back.    We also talk about Summer Reading and Fun Fests.   librarypoint.org

Dave Muraca and Allison Ellis preview 4th of July at Ferry Farm in Stafford.  $10-4.  $1.00 admission ages 3-up.   Parking and shuttle details at kenmore.org

Dave the Computer Guy talks about technology and hot cars--keep them out of the heat!   Discussion on the end of Windows 10, surge protection, battery backups, internet speed and how the internet connects the world.

Mike Blashford and Anne Little preview the Fredericksburg Native Plant Festival in September. Online reservations for trees and shrubs starts August 6th for residents of 22401 and August 13th for other Virginia residents.  We also talk about taking care of plants in the extreme heat and a way to keep mosquitos out of your yard.  treefredericksburg.org

Coming to a close.   Rappahannock United Way President Janel Donohue talks about her upcoming retirement and the decision this spring by the organization to close.   We talk about the impact RUW has had in the region for 86 years.

Executive Director Scott Harris talks about upcoming programs at the James Monroe Museum and Gari Melchers Home and Studio at Belmont.   We discuss Art After Hours, Sketchy History, History Trivia and Cars and Coffee.   Also, bringing Eliza home.

Director Penny Ayn Maas, Adrianne Hick (Diana) and Andrew Foote (Dan) join Patrick A'Hearn to talk about "Next to Normal," July 2nd thru August 3.   The musical explores a family's struggle with the effects, impact and treatment of mental illness. The hope is this production will help prompt discussions to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Additionally, the portrayal of therapy, medication, and the struggle for stability provides insights and encourages viewers to reflect on their own mental health and seek support if needed.  riversidedt.com    

Director of First Year Admissions Sarah Lindberg and Dean of Admissions and Associate Vice President Melissa Yakabouski talk about using the summer for college visits.  To register for a summer tour:   umw.edu/visit We talk about writing a college essay and affordability.

Beth Parnicza and Pete Maugle talk about what's available at the four parks--there are programs and some activities for kids.  Previewing History at Sunset and Summer Spotsylvania Hikes.  

Lauren Tate (Long and Foster-Managing Broker/2025 FAAR President) and Kim McClellan (Fredericksburg Area Association of Realtors) talk about the latest sales/inventory numbers and what it all means.  We also talk about strategies for home buyers and sellers.  faarmembers.com

Deputy Fire Chief Ben Gouldman and Public Information Officer Katie Brady talk about fireworks safety, overall summer safety when at a picnic or having a fire in a fire pit.  We also talk about firefighter training and coordination.

Matt Kelly and Rick Pullen talk about transparency in local government.  Topics include the Thurman Brisben Center, taxes and data centers.

Dr. Pawan Barot talks about advances in orthopedic surgery, when you should go see a doctor, recent Mary Washington Hospital awards for outpatient joint replacement, recovery after surgery and myths.  

Dan Maher talks about summer meals, the need for volunteers (and donors) possible federal funding cuts and what it would mean to local efforts to feed the hungry.  We also talk about a virtual food drive--b1015.com  Keyword:  kindness   fredfood.org

Alexis Innis talks about the need for blood donations.  63% are eligible.  Around 3% give. redcrossblood.org

Lefty Lucy, Beevil Knivevel, Scerica Steele and Arkansas Twister--their Roller Derby names--with everything about bouts, practices, strategy, equipment, home games.  They're also involved in the community.    fredericksburgrollerderby.com

Gin Schaffer and Cathleen Pessolano talk about the various programs and work of the Fairy Godmother Project.   FGP has a focus on the parents of kids with pediatric cancer.   fgpinfo.org

Dave Muraca (Vice President, Museum content) and Allison Ellis (Director of Education) preview upcoming events--Shakespeare on the Lawn and Betty's Birthday Bash.   We also discuss the summer archaeology dig at Ferry Farm.  kenmore.org

Special Olympics Virginia Summer Games this weekend in Richmond.   The Law Enforcement Torch Run is this Friday beginning in Stafford and going along Route 1.   Special Olympics Virginia President & CEO David Thomason, athlete Dylan Jacquez and his mother Julie.   specialolympicsva.org

Dave the Computer Guy talks about the end of Windows 10 on October 14th, 5g cell internet for home, how to use a pc, system restore and file history. techsintheburg.com  

Elani (Scout) and Grayson (Jem) join Patrick A'Hearn to talk about "To Kill a Mockingbird" thru June 22nd.   riversidedt.com

President Karen Daly previews Virginia Resolved on June 7th--10-4.   Activities include a citizenship ceremony, living history, cavalry drills, musket demonstrations with the SAR, colonial music and activities.   stratfordhall.org

Building should start in June in Ladysmith.  Jason Tickle and Western Caroline Supervisor Jeff Black with updates on how you can help and ways to volunteer.   crrhfl.org

Jody Lewandowski and Tracy McPeck talk about summer reading, music on the steps and Workforce Support Services.   librarypoint.org

MC and Saige join Cornelia Rutherford to preview the last three weeks of the Ren Faire.   12-year old Saige and her mom are new the Virginia Renaissance Faire and they're already planning their roles for next year.   varf.org    Remember, tickets can only be purchased for the event at Lake Anna Winery online.

Later this month, Heidi Tippett begins the nearly 200 mile/14 day hike across England west-to-east from the Irish Sea to the North Sea to raise money for Mental Health America Fredericksburg Region.   Tippett is a social worker in Spotsylvania County Schools and in private practice.   To donate and follow her progress:  https://heiditippett.wixsite.com/coasttocoast/donate

Germanna Community College President Dr. Janet Gullickson retires at the end of June. We talk with her about her eight years at GCC and challenges facing the next president.  Info on an upcoming Gala to honor Dr. Gullickson and raise money for Germanna students.