Town Talk

Gin Schaffer, Dr. Christina Wield, and Cathleen Pessolano join us to talk about the impact of pediatric cancer and how the Fairy Godmother Project (FGP) supports families facing unimaginable challenges. FGP helps meet the emotional, financial, and practical needs of families in crisis.   Learn about upcoming local programs and how you can support FGP’s Day of Giving on September 25th.   fairygodmotherproject.org

Jeff Stainbrook from Porter Library and Aimee Dillon from Westmoreland share an update about the Go Van’s arrival in Westmoreland, how the library is supporting students and teachers this back-to-school season, upcoming VA250 exhibits and programs, and the final results from this year’s Summer Reading program.  librarypoint.org

Jake DeNap (The Table), Dan Maher (Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank) and Meghan Samples (George Washington Regional Commission/Continuum of Care) talk about the work between various groups in the area on hunger.  September 9th information available 9-11 at Fredericksburg United Methodist Church.

Veteran Xander Hernandez, joined by his service dog Ruby, shares how he hasn’t gone anywhere without her since March and wouldn’t have done this show without her at his side.  Head Trainer Lisa Meadows and foster Linda Palmer from spotlight the life-changing impact of their fully funded fostering program—where LOV covers all expenses—and the growing need for fosters to help train future service dogs for veterans in need.  leashesofvalor.org

Antoine Carey and Kelvonte Cauthorne share how something as simple as a license changed their lives in powerful, yet different ways—highlighting the transformative work of the Faded Foundation, its barber academy, and Clothing for a Cause in uplifting the community.   fadedfoundation.org

Superintendent of Special Events Courtney Mersiowsky previews Day of Play on Sept. 21, FXBG Fermentation Fest on Sept. 27th and Kickback Tuesday at Riverfront Park.   We also talk about the Christmas Parade--Oct. 17 is the deadline to register your group--Soggy Doggy and Concert by Canoe.   fxbgparks.com or fredericksburgchristmasparade.com

University of Mary Washington Athletic Director Patrick Catullo invites the community to experience the excitement of UMW Eagles athletics—with 18 NCAA Division III teams and competitive programs in equestrian, e-sports, and rugby. All home games are free, giving fans easy access to high-level college sports right here in Fredericksburg. UMW athletes are true student-athletes, competing with heart and discipline—no athletic scholarships, just pure passion and pride. From the field to the arena, they play for their team, their school, and their community. Come support Fredericksburg’s home team and feel the energy of Eagle Nation.Schedules and team info at umweagles.com.

“Age is just a number.” Joni Briganti of Spotsylvania is a dedicated coach and accomplished athlete. As a member of Team USA, she’s set to compete in the Triathlon World Championships this October in Australia. Joni shares her coaching philosophy: Encourage. Inspire. Ignite.

The Hatch Act, which limits political activity by federal employees,  is an issue in the Fredericksburg City Council races.  Councilwoman Susanna Finn says she remains a candidate.  Other topics include data centers, historic preservation, and the challenges facing local government.

Caitlin Glauser, Amy Godkin, and Victoria Levi talk about the impact of the ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation, which provides support to children and families facing pediatric cancer. ASK has expanded its programs across Virginia, including a significant increase in services available in Fredericksburg. ASK offers emotional, educational, and financial support to families during their cancer journey, making sure no child or parent faces it alone.  Join ASK for a fundraising golf tournament this September at Lee’s Hill Golf Club.   askccf.org or golf4ask.org