Archives

Lt. Tom Cornell and Fire Chief Jay Cullinan join us to talk about holiday fire safety at a time of year when risks are at their highest. From cooking and kitchen hazards to heating and electrical safety, they share practical steps families can take to prevent fires. We also cover Christmas tree and decoration safety, the importance of working smoke alarms, and simple reminders that can make the difference between a close call and a tragedy.

After 36 years representing Spotsylvania and Caroline counties in the General Assembly, Bobby Orrock will not return to Richmond in January. The longtime delegate reflects on his loss in November, the legislation and issues he’s most proud of from his decades of service, and how Virginia politics has changed over the years. We also talk about what comes next as he closes one chapter of public service and looks ahead to the future.

Dave the Computer Guy joins us to discuss why properly recycling old electronics matters and how to protect your personal information in the new year. He explains that strong online security doesn’t have to be complicated, pointing to basics like antivirus software, a password manager, and smart browsing habits. We also dive into the rise of artificial intelligence, the growing demand for data centers, and what those changes mean for everyday users.  techsintheburg.com

If you’ve run in a local race recently, there’s a good chance Arsenal Events was behind the timing and organization. Kristen Loescher joins us to look back at a busy year, including the growth and success of the Stafford Race Series. We also shift to the bigger picture—why so many people make fitness a New Year’s resolution, how to set realistic goals, and smart, sustainable ways to get in shape and stay active in 2026.

University of Mary Washington men’s basketball coach Marcus Kahn and women’s coach Deena Applebury talk about what makes Division III athletics unique. With no athletic scholarships, they say players truly compete for the love of the game, balancing academics with a high level of competition.

The coaches discuss their recruiting approach, focusing on student-athletes who are the right fit both on the court and in the classroom, and who embrace the culture of UMW.

Kahn also highlights the success of the men’s program this season, with the Eagles currently ranked sixth nationally in Division III, underscoring the level of talent and commitment in the program despite the absence of scholarships.

The University of Mary Washington’s Dr. Stephen Farnsworth joins us to break down the latest developments in Virginia politics, including the ongoing redistricting debate and what it could mean for future elections. We also examine Governor Youngkin’s political legacy and the challenges and opportunities facing Governor-elect Spanberger as she prepares to take office.

Dr. Farnsworth discusses the growing absence of compromise in modern politics.  And we wrap up with a look at the power of political humor—how it shapes public perception and influences voters. Dr. Farnsworth is Professor of Political Science and International Affairs and Director of UMW’s Center for Leadership and Media Studies.

The Historic Fredericksburg Foundation’s 55th Christmas Candlelight Tour returns this weekend, and Preservationist Danae Peckler and Board Member Debbie Pederson join us with a preview.

This year’s tour features a colonial focus, highlighting some of Fredericksburg’s most significant 18th-century homes and the stories of the people who lived in them. Peckler and Pederson explain how the event blends architectural history, period décor, and guided interpretation to showcase what holiday life looked like in early Fredericksburg.

They also highlight the Saturday night program at the Smithfield mansion at the Fredericksburg Country Club, offering guests an evening of colonial-themed history, conversation, and seasonal celebration tied to this year’s tour.

They discuss the volunteer effort behind the tour, the meticulous research guiding each home’s presentation, and how proceeds support preservation work across the region.   Details and tickets are available at hffi.org/candlelight-tour.