Adult Services Director Tracy McPeck and Salem Church Branch Adult Services Department Head Kara Rockwell spotlight the library’s growing role as a hub for health, wellness, and connection. They highlight trusted health information, classes supporting both physical and mental well-being, and a full slate of adult programs and events. The discussion also emphasizes expanded access, including private telehealth pods and Library on the Go outreach to assisted living and retirement communities. They also encourage adults to take part in Adult Winter Reading as a fun way to stay engaged and motivated. Details on programs and services can be found at librarypoint.org.

Tonia Garnett and Juanita Shanks share powerful success stories highlighting recovery, resilience, and second chances. Garnett details her journey from incarceration to author, now using her experience to help others as a Peer Recovery Specialist with FailSafe. The conversation also includes updates on FailSafe’s Sound the Alarm initiative, which focuses on early intervention and community support.  More information about FailSafe’s programs is available at failsafe-era.org.

Xander Hernandez and Karen Meadows highlight the life-changing impact service dogs have on veterans, offering independence, confidence, and critical emotional support. Their focus now is expanding the program by placing more highly trained dogs with veterans who need them. A major need is for volunteer fosters, with flexible options ranging from daily care to weekends or holidays, making it accessible for many lifestyles. We talk about the need for community members to support the mission through financial donations or by contributing items from a wish list. More information on how to help is available at leashesofvalor.org.

Director of First Year Admissions Sarah Lindberg and Dean of Admissions and Associate Vice President Melissa Yakabouski share practical advice for students and parents as key college admission decisions are released. They address how students should handle disappointing early decision results and outline productive steps to stay on track for college acceptance. The discussion also focuses on paying for college, completing the FAFSA, and writing a compelling college essay that helps applicants stand out. The Regular Decision deadline at UMW is February 1, with Open House opportunities on February 16 and April 3.   umw.edu/admissions/apply.

Scott Neal introduces the Ability Baseball League, a new inclusive league giving youth and adults with developmental disabilities the chance to play baseball in a supportive, team-focused environment. Games will be held this spring and fall at Ability Field at the Sunshine Ballpark.  It's a partnership with Fredericksburg Parks, Recreation and Events and the Sunshine Ballpark Foundation. The league serves players ages 5–17 and adults 18 and older.  Registration for the spring season is now open, with a deadline of February 14. Details and sign-up information are available at abilitybaseballleague.com.

Dr. Sadie Ahanchi with Oracle Heart and Vascular in Fredericksburg talks about keeping blood flowing throughout the body and explains why vascular surgery is different from heart surgery. Heart surgery focuses on treating the heart itself, while vascular surgery treats the blood vessels that carry blood to and from the heart throughout the body. She breaks down common vascular conditions in plain language and why they often go unnoticed. We discuss the importance of screenings, early warning signs, and how modern treatments can prevent serious complications.

Rich Larochelle reflects on a productive 2025 at the farm in White Oak.   It was a time of  major infrastructure improvements and expanded community impact.   Already in 2026, a new barn is already in place, and construction on a greenhouse is nearly complete. Rich says the farm’s goal this year is to donate 60,000 pounds of fresh produce to local partners addressing food insecurity. Rappahannock Education Farm is also working to expand educational opportunities, offering more hands-on learning about agriculture, nutrition, and sustainability. Information on volunteering or making donations is available at rappahannockfarm.org.

Jill Clare and Meghann Cotter of Micah Ecumenical Ministries are previewing the Coldest Night of the Year walk, set for February 28 in Fredericksburg. The annual event raises critical funds for Micah’s programs that serve individuals and families experiencing homelessness and housing instability. Participants walk to show solidarity with neighbors who face cold winter nights without safe shelter. This year’s fundraising goal is $200,000, which will support emergency shelter, housing stabilization, and outreach services. More information, registration, and donation details are available at cnoy.com/fredericksburg.

Inform Fredericksburg examines government transparency as Matt Kelly and Rick Pullen dig into several city issues.  Their discussion takes a look at funding for the Brisben Center, the financial and policy implications of the Princess Anne redevelopment, and potential changes with real estate taxes.    They discuss public access to information, and how decisions at City Hall affect residents and taxpayers. *- During the Tuesday episode of Town Talk allegations were made involving Will Mackintosh, Fredericksburg City Council claiming he may have offered University of Mary Washington students extra credit in exchange for Democratic votes in November. It was also stated by Rick Pullen and Matt Kelly that UMW had opened an investigation. UMW tells us there is no investigation. We regret the statements aired and apologize.

Kevin and Charlie Vogt, along with Special Olympics Virginia President David Thomason, preview the 2026 Polar Plunge, set for February 6–7 in Virginia Beach. The event marks the 35th anniversary of the iconic fundraiser supporting Special Olympics athletes across the Commonwealth. Charlie Vogt shares what Special Olympics has meant to their family and how its programs create opportunity, confidence, and inclusion. Kevin is a local DJ. He's raised $60,000 by taking the icy dip. The Polar Plunge provides critical funding for year-round training and competition for athletes with intellectual disabilities. The Virginia Beach plunge weekend includes a 5K Friday night. polarplunge.com