Town Talk

Idea Space Manager Chuck Gray and MakerLab Specialist Simon Watts walk us through the creative technology hub at 1616 Princess Anne Street. With Idea Space celebrating its 5-year anniversary in December, they outline new equipment, updated badging, and recent improvements that make the space more accessible than ever. They also preview what’s next on the calendar, including the upcoming Adult Winter Reading Challenge. librarypoint.org

John Coker and Roy Strohl join us to preview the 40th annual Pancake Feast, happening December 6th from 8 to 5 at Fredericksburg Baptist Church on Caroline Street. What began decades ago with ham biscuits—until a sweltering day forced a menu change—has grown into a major community tradition tied to the downtown Christmas parade. They reflect on the event’s history and the staying power of the Rappahannock Rotary, which has kept the feast thriving for four decades.

Riverside Center CEO and Producing Artistic Director Patrick A’Hearn discusses the theatre’s holiday production of White Christmas, running through December 28. He also outlines highlights from next season’s schedule and provides historical context on several well-known Christmas musicals. riversidedt.com

UMW Professor of Communications Anand Rao—director of the new Center for AI and the Liberal Arts—joins us to talk about why the Center was created and why this kind of work is so important right now. We dig into how UMW students are using AI, how the technology is already shaping everyday life in the Fredericksburg region, and Rao’s practical tips for anyone who wants to get started with AI.

Fredericksburg Main Street Executive Director Chris Allen and President Bart Goldberg with a preview of Small Business Saturday, underscoring why shopping local matters now more than ever—supporting neighborhood shops, fueling the local economy, and keeping downtown vibrant. They also discuss a lively holiday season ahead, complete with expanded four-hour parking, new this year--Elf on the Shelf hunt, and the return of Window Wonderland and its riddles.

Chris Bowers and Jason Haag say the latest Leashes of Valor graduation was one of those moments that sticks with you—five veterans receiving their service dogs, and plenty of emotion to go with it. They describe how each pairing is truly life-changing, but also how the need keeps growing. To stay on pace, the organization needs more funding, more foster families, and help meeting a $250,000 match now through the end of the year. They’re also looking ahead, laying out big goals for 2026 as they work to serve even more veterans. More information is available at leashesofvalor.org. (And yes—despite the photo, Maverick is much bigger now!)

Deputy Fire Chief Ben Gouldman and Public Information Officer Katie Brady from Stafford Fire and Rescue join us to talk about staying safe this holiday season. If you’re hosting family or friends, it’s a good time to review your home’s escape plan — and make sure guests know where to meet in case of an emergency. In the kitchen, we discuss safe cooking habits, how to handle a grease fire correctly, and why keeping a working fire extinguisher nearby can make all the difference. The conversation also turns to holiday decorations — how to keep your Christmas tree fresh and safe, when to replace worn or frayed lights, and the safest way to use candles without creating a hazard. Gouldman and Brady remind everyone that a few small precautions can prevent holiday memories from turning into emergencies.

Dave Muraca and Allison Ellis preview three of the area’s most popular holiday events — the Gingerbread Contest and Exhibit at Ferry Farm, Wee Christmas at Kenmore, and the Twelfth Night celebration at Kenmore. Each program brings history and holiday charm to life, offering visitors creative displays, family activities, and a glimpse into 18th-century traditions. The pair also highlight the Virginia 250 Passport, which encourages visitors to explore sites connected to Virginia’s role in the nation’s founding as part of the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence. In addition, they provide an update on the artifacts unearthed at Ferry Farm over the summer, sharing what’s been discovered, preserved, and studied since the dig concluded. Together, these programs connect the region’s rich history with the joy of the holiday season. For event schedules and details, visit kenmore.org.

Fredericksburg’s own epic poet, Quill, talks about the city’s annual holiday treasure hunt. The game features riddles posted on the windows of more than 50 downtown businesses. Bobby Hebert says every line of each riddle is true. Hebert also recommends forming a team with people of different ages and perspectives, since each player might see a clue in a new way. Window Wonderland is a downtown tradition!

The University of Mary Washington will kick off its 2026 Great Lives series on January 20. Director Scott Harris says programs will be held nearly every Tuesday and Thursday at Dodd Auditorium, offering audiences an in-depth look at the lives and achievements of influential historical and contemporary figures. The series has long been a Fredericksburg tradition. It's free. The full schedule at umw.edu/greatlives

Lindsey Crawford from the James Monroe Museum and floral consultant Jan Williams preview the final Deck the Halls. After 45 years, the event is coming to a close. The final installment will again feature Williams demonstrating how to craft elegant seasonal decorations using local evergreens and natural materials. The program has become a cherished Fredericksburg tradition, drawing crowds each year eager to watch Williams’ signature designs take shape and gather inspiration for their own homes. Attendees will once again have the chance to take home one of the handcrafted arrangements created during the show. The event is Saturday, December 6th from 9:30-12:30 at the Hurley Convergence Center at UMW. Call the James Monroe Museum at 540-654-2111 or stop by the museum on Charles Street for information.

Kevin Rodrigue and D.D. Lecky preview the FXBG Pottery Throwdown, November 15th at Hurkamp Park in downtown Fredericksburg. The event brings together local potters for live demonstrations and one-of-a-kind pottery sales. We discuss the thoughtful decisions behind crafting a simple cup, the dedication it takes to master the art, and what draws people into the pottery world. They also share how Fredericksburg’s pottery community continues to grow and inspire creativity. It’s a lively, insightful discussion that will leave you appreciating the beauty and personality behind every handmade piece. libertytownarts.com.

Curator of Collections Kylie Thomson says the holidays are the perfect time to preserve family history—by labeling old photos, documenting stories behind heirlooms, and learning who’s who in family pictures. She also offers advice on properly storing keepsakes to protect them for future generations and invites the public to explore the Fredericksburg History Archive at fxbghistoryarchive.org

Anna Billingsley and Cait Woodward preview the annual Trees of Hope fundraiser, benefiting Loisann’s Hope House. The event features beautifully decorated and one-of-a-kind Christmas trees that will be on display and available for auction. A luncheon will be held on November 19, followed by the Magical Night of Giving on November 20. All proceeds support Hope House’s work helping children and families experiencing homelessness in our region. Cait Woodward says the need has grown sharply due to inflation and the ongoing affordable housing crisis, with more families seeking help than ever before. She also reminds us that everyone can play a role in offering hope — whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness. loisannshopehouse.org

Jessica Jones and Alexis Fox with Rappahannock Adult Activities highlight how the horticulture program helps individuals with disabilities build skills, confidence, and community connections through hands-on gardening. There's a new volunteer program on Tuesday beginning at 10am., and donations of pots or soil help keep the program growing. They’re also preparing for their annual poinsettia sale—just in time for the holidays—and will even deliver your order to make supporting their mission easy and festive. Details on facebook.

On Halloween, Dave the Computer Guy talked about the darker side of the Internet, urging everyone to slow down and think before they click. He says rushing online leads to costly mistakes—especially when opening suspicious emails or reacting to fake order notices. Staying alert and using common sense are your best defenses. It's our annual Halloween Spooktacular! techsintheburg.com

Founder Charlie Russell with SAWs Virginia says they're facing an urgent need for a new location to store and build its pre-assembled wheelchair ramps, as the current building will soon be unavailable. The space is vital to the group’s mission, allowing volunteers to construct modular ramps that can be quickly installed at homes for people with mobility challenges. So far this year, SAWs volunteers have built more than 40 ramps across the community, providing safe access and independence for those in need. Russell says more volunteers are always welcome, with opportunities available for all skill levels. Learn more or get involved at sawsva.org.

Chief Development Officer Chris Bowers with Leashes of Valor previews the upcoming graduation where five veterans will receive their service dogs — life-changing companions trained to support those who’ve served. He discusses the ongoing challenge of warrior suicide and the hope these dogs bring; no veteran partnered with a Leashes of Valor dog has taken their own life. Bowers also shares how the community can help by fostering dogs or contributing to fund more veteran-service dog pairings. Learn more at leashesofvalor.org.

Assistant Branch Manager and Adult Services Department Head Erin Creighton and Branch Manager Craig Graziano with updates from the downtown library on Caroline Street. They discuss how the library serves as a vital community hub — connecting people to essential services, local assistance programs, and resources that support health, education, and lifelong learning. From partnerships that help those in need to classes and events that inspire growth, the library continues to make a real impact in people’s lives. They also preview upcoming art shows that showcase local creativity and talent. Learn more at librarypoint.org.

Kathy Halenda and Robert Biederman join Patrick A’Hearn for a lively preview of White Christmas, coming to Riverside Center for the Performing Arts in Stafford on November 5 through December 28. The beloved holiday classic brings dazzling music, heartwarming storytelling, and all the nostalgia of the season to the stage. Robert shares that his favorite moment comes near the end of the show — because of it's military connection. We also talks about the magic of giving the gift of live theater, offering an unforgettable experience to share with family and friends. riversidedt.com.