Town Talk

Editor-in-Chief Joey LoMonaco and board member Mitzi Brown discussed updates at the Fredericksburg Free Press, including a new sports page and “Forces for Good,” which highlights local nonprofits and their work in the community. They also discussed the “Find the Facts” series, designed to help readers navigate misinformation and social media. The conversation focused on the Free Press’s efforts to expand local coverage and better serve Fredericksburg-area readers.  fredericksburgfreepress.com

Tracy McPeck and Joy O'Toole with the Central Rappahannock Regional Library preview the Rappahannock Writers’ Conference. It's a free, two-day event for creators of all experience levels on November 13 and 14. Friday features workshops on topics like editing, marketing, writers' block and dialogue at the Howell Branch Library.  Saturday at Germanna Community College's Fredericksburg campus includes writing workshops and discussions. Registration opens October 2.   Organizers say it frequently fills up fast.   librarypoint.org

Christina Jenkins, Trevor Sherwin and Cait Woodward preview the Battle of the Burgers, a fundraiser for Loisann’s Hope House set for Oct. 18 at Riverfront Park in Fredericksburg. The event, scheduled from noon to 3 p.m., will feature slider samples from six downtown restaurants: Eats, Cheeky’s, Harry’s Alehouse, Mason Dixon Café, Rebellion and Sammy T’s. Attendees also will receive two drink tickets with admission. Children’s activities, including bounce houses, will be available. The fundraiser is being held by Loisann’s Hope House and Olde Towne Butcher to support local families. Admission is $20 before Oct. 1 and $25 afterward. Children under 5 are free.   loisannshopehouse.org

Anthony Salgado and Erin Perkins with the Rappahannock Health District talk about what it really means to be prepared when an emergency happens. Having food, water and essential supplies on hand is important—but true preparedness also means knowing where to get reliable information, having a plan for your household, understanding your community’s resources, preparing for health and medical needs, and knowing how to respond when normal services may be disrupted. Emergencies can happen with little warning. Taking a few steps now can make a big difference when you need to act.

The Women’s Neurology Clinic at Mary Washington Neurology provides specialized neurological care with attention to conditions that can affect women throughout different stages of life. Dr. Bobbie Decker works with patients experiencing neurological conditions, including epilepsy. Epilepsy can affect people differently, making individualized evaluation and treatment an important part of care. The clinic offers patients an opportunity to discuss symptoms, treatment options and ongoing management with a neurology specialist. Neuro.mwhc.com for info.

Deputy Chris Newman and Sgt. Steven Curtis preview National Night Out at Stafford Marketplace on October 6 from 5–8 p.m. It’s a chance to meet local law enforcement, connect with your neighbors, spend an evening of family-friendly activities, and learn more about the people who help keep our community safe.

Seth Casana, Simon Watts and Gabe Pons preview Art Attack, happening October 3 in downtown Fredericksburg from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. They talk about the artists, makers and creative experiences that will bring the streets to life, along with what makes this annual event a celebration of the local arts community. The fun continues that evening with a free concert at The OG from 7 to 9 p.m. You can still participate in Art Attack:   artattackproject.com

UMW Galleries Director Tracy Stonestreet and UMW Assistant Professor of Studio Art Coorain Devin preview the  lineup of upcoming exhibitions at the Ridderhof Martin Gallery and duPont Gallery.     Stonestreet and Devin also highlight opportunities for students to exhibit their work, engage with professional artists and experience different forms of contemporary art right on campus. Admission to all exhibitions and related events is free and open to the public.

David Caprara with information about the need for assistance for Nepal.   engagenepal.org.   There's a program on Nepal on Thursday night at the downtown library.  Then a candlelight vigil on the steps. Chuck Gialloreto and Kathryn Willis with a discussion about Pizza Palooza this Saturday night at Market Square from 5-9.

Patrick A'Hearn, Nancy Anderson and Chris Sanders preview Sweeney Todd--at Riverside thru October 25th.  It's the musical about a wronged barber who returns to London seeking revenge.  Photo courtesy Suzanne Carr-Rossi