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Happy Tuesday, neighbors.
Last call: voting for the FXBG Neighbors' Choice Awards closes tomorrow, so if you haven't cast your ballot yet, now's the time. In other news, Carl's reopens Friday (cue the collective sigh of relief), Sammy T's decided coffee belongs in a burger (we're intrigued), and early bird tickets for Mom Prom end soon.
Let's get into it.
Dori
Local Pulse: FXBG Edition
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Business Briefs
Galentine's Bashin' Brunch: Burn It, Bash It, Then Toast to Your Glow Era (February 15th)
Grab your besties and step into your petty era the classy way. Galentine's Bashin' Brunch is happening Sunday, February 15th from 11:00am to 1:00pm, and it's revenge therapy with cocktails, rituals, and a bat. You'll write it, burn it, cut the cord, and bash the body bag. Then you'll toast to whatever comes next. Your $35 ticket includes two themed cocktails or mocktails, brunch bites, burn ritual, cord cutting ceremony, 10 minute rage room bash with red paint balloons, mini tarot reading, and a curated goodie bag. Capacity is 16 guests only. Women don't get even, they get brunch. Grab your ticket at fxbg-rage.square.site before they're gone.
Dance FXBG Is Bringing the Community Together, One Swing Dance at a Time
Joel Webber has been teaching swing dance in Fredericksburg since 2012, and Dance FXBG is where different styles of dancers come together under one roof. What makes this studio special isn't just the excellent music or the dance lessons, it's the sense of community it creates by bringing people together across age groups and backgrounds. Whether you're a beginner or experienced dancer, Dance FXBG offers 7 week swing dance lessons, drop in classes, and Saturday dances where everyone is welcome. Ready to hit the dance floor? Visit dancefxbg.com to schedule a class.
Women-Owned Businesses Are Thriving in FXBG. Now Let's Make Sure Everyone Knows About Them.
Every woman-owned business in the FXBG area deserves to be recognized. FXBG Neighbors is creating an online directory and a magazine called "Power Players: Women Entrepreneurs Fueling FXBG's Growth" that celebrates YOU and connects you with 50,000+ potential customers who want to support women-owned businesses. Get listed for FREE, with options for even more visibility. We're also hosting a celebration event at Eden Try Winery! This is your moment to be seen, celebrated, and connected. Click here, and we’ll send you more information.
Atlantic Builders' Give Back Home Just Raised $500,000 for Local Nonprofits
Atlantic Builders' 2025 Give Back Home generated $500,000 in donations to support nonprofit organizations serving the Fredericksburg region and beyond. The impact was made possible by trade partners and suppliers who donated materials and labor so more of the home's proceeds could go directly back into the community. The funds support organizations focused on strengthening families, expanding healthcare access, workforce development, mentorship, and long term community support, including Jeremiah Community, Atlantic Builders Giving Fund, The 516 Project, Fredericksburg Christian Health Center, Rappahannock Goodwill Industries, Big Brothers Big Sisters Greater Fredericksburg, Ellie's Elves, Beauty for Ashes, Rappahannock Education Farm, and Fairy Godmother Project. This is what building community looks like.
Your Vote Counts: FXBG Neighbors' Choice Awards Close Tomorrow
It's time to celebrate the businesses, people, and places that make Fredericksburg special. The inaugural FXBG Neighbors' Choice Awards voting is open now, but you only have one more day to cast your vote. Voting closes February 11th. This is your chance to shout out your favorite local restaurant, coffee shop, trainer, realtor, contractor, or any business that's made your life better this year. Head to vote.fxbgneighborsconnect.com and make your voice heard before it's too late.
A Dog-Themed Bookstore Brewing Coffee and Community in Downtown Fredericksburg
Tales and Tails isn't just a bookstore, it's a neighborhood living room where readers, neighbors, and pups all feel at home. Christine Bowman joins the podcast to share how she turned a playful idea into a Fredericksburg staple at 1010 Charles Street, complete with new books across genres, Blanchard's coffee from Richmond, a dog-friendly patio with pup cups, and three free upstairs meeting rooms. From book clubs drawing 20 to 30 people to adoption events with Old Dominion Humane Society, the store runs on connection and community. Christine opens up about starting before conditions were perfect, the surprising return of reading among younger fantasy fans, and her candid advice for aspiring small business owners: lean on family, tap local resources like the Small Business Development Center, and build a team that makes the work feel possible. Love books, coffee, and spaces that bring people together? Listen to the full episode, then stop by for a latte and a new read at talesandtailsbookcafe.com.
The February Edition of Neighbors of Courthouse Just Arrived!
The February edition of Neighbors of Courthouse just landed in mailboxes, and this one's packed with the stories that make our community feel like home. Inside, you'll find the D'Amico family's adventure through travel, literacy, and creativity, plus student voices creating change in Stafford schools, practical guidance for navigating a flooring renovation on a budget, and The Meadow Church's mission to nurture whole families through faith and service. There's also real life advice for parents finding the balance between love and independence, and a pet care piece that might just save you from missing a critical step in your furry friend's recovery. It's the kind of issue that reminds you why local stories matter.
Neighbors of Courthouse serves the neighborhoods of Augustine, Austin Ridge, Colonial Forge, Embrey Mill, Liberty Knolls, Shelton Knolls, & Shelton Woods in Stafford County.
Local Flavor
What’s Happening In & Around the ‘Burg
This section includes only the major events happening soon. Check event websites for the most current information. Weather Alert: Please verify event details with venues before attending, as schedules may have changed due to weather.
Wednesday, February 11
FREE Trivia for a Cause | 6:00PM (Feb.18 and 25)
Location: Brock's Riverside Grill, 503 Sophia Street, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: A fun night out where every answer makes an impact! Grab your friends, test your knowledge, and enjoy a community night that gives back to local nonprofits.
Blues Jam | 6:00PM
Location: Laudenbach Brewing, 45 Centreport Pkwy, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Join us and participate in a fun jam session either as a musician or audience member! The local talent in the area is phenomenal and we can't wait to hear them play the blues!
Thursday, February 12
"Something in the Air," Art Show | 5:00PM
Location: The Sunken Well Tavern, 720 Littlepage St, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: We are the Dirt, Tendersong and Milkdew. As always Sunken Well will have delectable bites and drink specials to die for.
Location: The Griffin on Charles, 911 Charles Street, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: YOU can be a part of our conservation efforts and legacy in Fredericksburg. Appetizers will be provided and there is no cost to attend.
Friday, February 13
Fredericksburg Valentines Craft & Vendor Market | 10:00AM (through 15)
Location: Spotsylvania Towne Centre, 137 Spotsylvania Mall Drive, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Be part of this special event as shoppers look for handmade gifts, specialty items, and memorable keepsakes to celebrate love.
Valentine’s Candy Crush Skate Night | 6:00PM
Location: Fredericksburg Parks, Recreation & Events, 1300 Dixon St, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Roll into the rink dressed in pink, red, or your most candy-cute outfit and skate the night away.
