Town Talk

David Williams with Allen & Allen talks about the Hometown Heroes program — It honors Virginians who are quietly making a big impact in their communities. From teachers and healthcare workers to volunteers and advocates, these everyday heroes represent the very best of what it means to serve others. We talk about the origins of the program, stories of past honorees, and why Allen & Allen remains committed to continuing the program.     If you know someone who inspires others through selfless service or community leadership, now is the time to celebrate them. Nominations are open through October 17th. Learn more and submit your Hometown Hero at allenandallen.com/hometown-heroes.

Spotsylvania County Schools social workers Michelle Patton Swisher and Lisa Dolan preview the annual Rock Out, Knock Out Homelessness drive on October 3rd and 4th at the Southpoint Walmart. The event runs Friday from noon to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., collecting essential items for students and families experiencing housing insecurity. All donations go to the Treasure House, a school-based resource center located at Massaponax High School that provides clothing, toiletries, and basic necessities. The drive supports families across the school division who rely on Treasure House throughout the year. You're encouraged to stop by, donate, and help knock out homelessness one item at a time.

Aimee Hardy previews the Josh Hardy Superhero Celebration each year in memory of Josh, who loved superheroes and inspired many during his battle with cancer. The event, happening this year on October 25th at Strangeways Brewing on Lansdowne Road, celebrates Josh’s legacy. It’s also a fundraiser for the Fairy Godmother Project, a nonprofit that supports families facing pediatric cancer.

Dr. Allan Hardy spoke about the importance of weight loss and the strategies needed to keep weight off long-term. He emphasized that successful weight management involves a combination of medical support, nutrition, behavioral changes, and accountability. Hardy also shared his personal experience with weight loss, offering insight into the challenges and mindset shifts required.

Youth Services Librarian Sarah Smethurst and Adult Services Programmer Joy O'Toole of the Howell branch of the Central Rappahannock Regional Library preview the upcoming Rappahannock Writers' Conference, taking place November 7–8 with workshops Friday evening at the Howell Branch and the main conference Saturday at Germanna Community College’s Spotsylvania campus. More information is available at librarypoint.org/writers-conference. Also highlighted are the Teen Stop Motion Video Contest, the annual Trebuchet Contest, and National Library Card Sign-Up Month—all part of the library’s ongoing efforts to engage and inspire the community. Learn more at librarypoint.org.

Sgt. Steven Curtis of the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office and Veronica Gutierrez of Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation preview this year’s National Night Out, taking place October 7 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Stafford Marketplace. The event is designed to strengthen community ties and public trust by giving residents a chance to meet deputies, explore emergency vehicles and equipment, and learn about local safety and health resources. Organizers say it’s a key opportunity for families to engage directly with those who serve and protect the community.

Art Attack, an annual event started in 2012 by local artists Bill Harris and Gabe Pons, will return to downtown Fredericksburg on October 4. The event features artists creating work live on the streets, offering the public a direct look at the artistic process and showcasing the depth of local talent. Simon Watts, of Original Grinds, is supporting this year’s event and emphasized his coffee shop’s commitment to Fredericksburg’s creative community. Organizers say Art Attack aims to give working artists greater visibility while encouraging public engagement with the arts. The event is free and open to all. More details are available at artattackproject.com.

As Historic Kenmore celebrates its 250th anniversary, the site will host a Community Block Party on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring a range of activities highlighting Kenmore’s legacy and connection to the community. Dave Muraca and Allison Ellis of The George Washington Foundation previewed the day’s events, which will include interactive exhibits, guided house tours, lawn games, hands-on crafts, and other family-friendly activities. The block party is part of a yearlong observance of Kenmore’s role in Virginia and American history. For full event details, visit kenmore.org.

Christine Ellison, Jenn Burton, Kim Swarthout, Patricia Black, and Heidi Dodson are part of the team behind The Green Thread Project, a Fredericksburg-area nonprofit working to ensure individuals and families have access to basic necessities. The organization provides free clothing, shoes, hygiene products, and other essentials through a fleet of mobile outreach buses, allowing them to bring resources directly to underserved neighborhoods. Their mission is to help build a stronger, more compassionate community—one where everyone has access to the items they need to live with dignity. To learn more about how to get involved or request assistance, visit healingseedva.org.

CEO and Producing Artistic Director Patrick A’Hearn is directing The Sound of Music, now on stage through October 26. A’Hearn says he focused on assembling a standout cast and crafting a powerful opening sequence to pull audiences into the story from the very first scene. Ticket sales have been strong, with the production on track to surpass 10,000 by closing night. The beloved musical continues to draw enthusiastic crowds. Details and tickets are available at riversidedt.com