A Fredericksburg idea is now Virginia law. HB 702, the voluntary firearm give-back bill, was signed by the governor after originating with Fredericksburg City Council member Chuck Frye and being championed in the General Assembly by Delegate Josh Cole. They discuss how the legislation came together and what it means for communities across the Commonwealth.

From painting a new mural at Goolricks to weighing in on AI and the future of creativity,  we talk with LibertyTown artist Bill Harris.  We explore how his classes welcome artists of all ages and abilities, the power of creating together, and what's in store for this fall's Art Attack.  billharrisart.com

Michelle Rose of Washington Heritage Museums, Victoria Matthews with the City of Fredericksburg, and Beth Parnicza of Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park discuss the upcoming Slave Dwelling Project, a three-day series of programs and events taking place Sept. 11–13 at several historic sites throughout the Fredericksburg area. The event will explore the history and legacy of enslaved people through tours, discussions, and educational programming. https://fxbg.com/slave-dwelling-project/

Sgt. Curtis with the Stafford Sheriff's Office talks public safety in our community. He explains the Worship Watch program and how the Sheriff's Office works with local churches to strengthen security and prepare for emergencies. As the new school year approaches, Sgt. Curtis reminds drivers what they need to know about sharing the road with school buses and keeping students safe. We also discuss the growing problem of distracted driving, traffic enforcement, and the challenges of policing one of Virginia's fastest-growing counties.

Andrew Foote, Mia Gomez Montero, and Patrick A'Hearn join us to preview The Mousetrap, Agatha Christie's legendary murder mystery and the world's longest-running play. The production runs July 15 through August 23.  We talk about the enduring appeal of this classic whodunit. riversidedt.com

Jason Haag and Chris Bowers join us to talk about their mission to provide highly trained service dogs to military veterans whose lives are changed by these incredible companions. One of their greatest needs right now is foster families. Whether you can foster full-time, just on weekends, or step in while a regular foster family is on vacation, every bit of help makes a difference. We also discuss upcoming events, ways to get involved, and how you can support this life-changing work for veterans and their future service dogs.   This is a picture of Maverick! leashesofvalor.org

Deputy Executive Director Adriana Puckett and Executive Director Rebecca Purdy discuss exciting new ways to support the library through the Community Fund and sponsorship opportunities. They also share the latest on Summer Reading, the popular Music on the Steps concert series, and the Friends of the Library Summer Book Sale.

Curator Kylie Thomson previews upcoming programs at the museum, including What Remains: Revolutionary War Artifacts on July 30.   She also discusses a new quilt panel display and plans to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Fredericksburg railroad bridge next year.

Executive Director Jennifer Hurst-Wender discusses the history and mission of Historic Germanna, highlighting ongoing efforts in archaeology, education, and the preservation of the historic Salubria estate. She also previews the organization's annual Conference and Reunion, taking place July 16–19, where attendees can explore regional history through lectures, archaeological programs, tours, and hands-on experiences.   Ticket information at germanna.org

Mandy Carr and Cathy Warder discuss the long-standing friendship between Fredericksburg and Fréjus, France, a sister-city relationship that began in 1980 and continues to strengthen through cultural exchange and community connections. This month, Fredericksburg welcomes a group of students from Fréjus, giving them the opportunity to experience American life while building friendships that cross borders. We discuss  the lasting benefits of student exchange programs. We also preview Fredericksburg's plans to celebrate Bastille Day on July 14.   Info on the sister city association here