The lights and the tree have been taken down or put away, but the real work of Christmas is just beginning. Barry turns to a poem written by Howard Thurman (1899-1981), an African-American theologian and civil rights leader who reminds us that the Star in the sky may be gone, but the heart of the Christmas message is just beginning.

Barry also invites his newly retired wife Mary (a professor at Shenandoah University for 37 years) to share how her first few days of retirement are going.

Marine Veteran Wayne David Hubbard of Winchester joins Barry on this first episode of 2026 to talk about the 'Veterans Poetry Project - Perseverance and Resilience'. David talks about upcoming local workshops and an anthology to help veterans share their experience through writing.

www.veteranspoetryproject7.wordpress.com

On this episode Barry celebrates the arrival of 2026 with some fun observations about resolutions and old folklore good-luck traditions on how to start off a new year.

On this episode, Barry celebrates the arrival of Christmas this week with some fun observations, and also sits down with Brad Veach, Executive Director of the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival to chat about New Year's Eve in Old Town Winchester. The Festival and City of Winchester will be hosting a 6-hour laser light show with music, street performers, and vendors up and down the Old Town Mall with the Apple Drop at midnight, and it's all free! Details at www.thebloom.com

On this episode Barry dives deeper into the Christmas season and spirit by passing along tips on re-gifting, office party etiquette, the Hallmark drinking game, and gifts for under zero cents. He also talks about hanging the outdoor lights with his adult daughter ... a tradition that dates back to when she was little.

From hurt, to help, to healing ... 'You're Not Alone Ministry' ... Support for Mental Health Challenges. Joining Barry on this episode are Alan Umstead, Sylvia Tarro and Dan Skoda who share their personal stories of how they helped start this ministry that provides support groups and resources for individuals and families facing mental health challenges.

This week the Christmas spirit soars through song! Joining Barry on the show is Jeffrey Alban with the Blue Ridge Singers to invite all to their concert series, "The Very Best Time of Year" (www.blueridgesingers.org)

Also stopping by is Dave Worthington with the Clarke County Community Band that will present three fun-filled Christmas concerts to benefit Chain of Checks (www.clarkecountycommunityband.com)

It's the week of Thanksgiving and Barry shares his love of this special day, and ponders why mashed potatoes taste better on Thanksgiving Day.

Joining Barry on the show is Michael Hummer, a volunteer with the American Cancer Society and a cancer survivor. Michael talks about 'Wrapping Up Cancer For Hope' ... a gift wrapping fundraiser at Apple Blossom Mall (11/28 & 11/29, December 12th thru the 24th.

Frederick County Parks and Rec celebrates 25 years of holiday magic with the opening of their "Walking In A Winter Wonderland" at Clearbrook Park on 11/28. Barry' guest on the show is Onna Keller, Program Supervisor with FCPRD who describes all the fun details and activities. For details and tickets, log on to www.fcprd.net

(Half of the opening night proceeds on 11/28 will benefit the Chain of Checks charity campaign. Details at www.chainofchecks.com)

What was that creature that emerged briefly from the Shenandoah River, and then disappeared? How could it be true? On this episode, filmmaker and co-owner of Mirandum Pictures, Colin J. Mason and Executive Producer Parson Brown join Barry to talk about their upcoming film, "River Maid - A Short Folk Tale".