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UMW Professor of Communications Anand Rao—director of the new Center for AI and the Liberal Arts—joins us to talk about why the Center was created and why this kind of work is so important right now. We dig into how UMW students are using AI, how the technology is already shaping everyday life in the Fredericksburg region, and Rao’s practical tips for anyone who wants to get started with AI.

Fredericksburg Main Street Executive Director Chris Allen and President Bart Goldberg with a preview of Small Business Saturday, underscoring why shopping local matters now more than ever—supporting neighborhood shops, fueling the local economy, and keeping downtown vibrant.

They also discuss a lively holiday season ahead, complete with expanded four-hour parking, new this year--Elf on the Shelf hunt, and the return of Window Wonderland and its riddles.

Chris Bowers and Jason Haag say the latest Leashes of Valor graduation was one of those moments that sticks with you—five veterans receiving their service dogs, and plenty of emotion to go with it. They describe how each pairing is truly life-changing, but also how the need keeps growing.

To stay on pace, the organization needs more funding, more foster families, and help meeting a $250,000 match now through the end of the year. They’re also looking ahead, laying out big goals for 2026 as they work to serve even more veterans. More information is available at leashesofvalor.org. (And yes—despite the photo, Maverick is much bigger now!)

Deputy Fire Chief Ben Gouldman and Public Information Officer Katie Brady from Stafford Fire and Rescue join us to talk about staying safe this holiday season.

If you’re hosting family or friends, it’s a good time to review your home’s escape plan — and make sure guests know where to meet in case of an emergency. In the kitchen, we discuss safe cooking habits, how to handle a grease fire correctly, and why keeping a working fire extinguisher nearby can make all the difference. The conversation also turns to holiday decorations — how to keep your Christmas tree fresh and safe, when to replace worn or frayed lights, and the safest way to use candles without creating a hazard.

Gouldman and Brady remind everyone that a few small precautions can prevent holiday memories from turning into emergencies.

Dave Muraca and Allison Ellis preview three of the area’s most popular holiday events — the Gingerbread Contest and Exhibit at Ferry Farm, Wee Christmas at Kenmore, and the Twelfth Night celebration at Kenmore. Each program brings history and holiday charm to life, offering visitors creative displays, family activities, and a glimpse into 18th-century traditions.

The pair also highlight the Virginia 250 Passport, which encourages visitors to explore sites connected to Virginia’s role in the nation’s founding as part of the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence. In addition, they provide an update on the artifacts unearthed at Ferry Farm over the summer, sharing what’s been discovered, preserved, and studied since the dig concluded.

Together, these programs connect the region’s rich history with the joy of the holiday season. For event schedules and details, visit kenmore.org.

Fredericksburg’s own epic poet, Quill, talks about the city’s annual holiday treasure hunt. The game features riddles posted on the windows of more than 50 downtown businesses.

Bobby Hebert says every line of each riddle is true.  Hebert also recommends forming a team with people of different ages and perspectives, since each player might see a clue in a new way.

Window Wonderland is a downtown tradition!

The University of Mary Washington will kick off its 2026 Great Lives series on January 20. Director Scott Harris says programs will be held nearly every Tuesday and Thursday at Dodd Auditorium, offering audiences an in-depth look at the lives and achievements of influential historical and contemporary figures.

The series has long been a Fredericksburg tradition.  It's free.  The full schedule at umw.edu/greatlives