Stafford Connect Podcast

Griffis-Widewater supervisor Tinesha Allen meets with Tom to discuss the North Anna to Bristers electric transmission line project. Topics include the the purpose of the project, its proposed route, benefits and impacts, and procedures and timelines for input and decisions. A great discussion for those seeking basic information about the the project.

Dave Muraca of the Mary Washington Foundation sits down with Tom in this episode to talk about America's 250th birthday celebration. Topics include initiatives and events at the national, state, and local levels with emphasis on Stafford County. You won't want to miss this wide-ranging informal discussion of America's historical celebration.

Tom meets with Stafford School Board member-elect, Shannon Fingerholz, and supervisor-elect, Maya Guy. Topics include their impressions of the November elections, priorities as they begin their terms, and the challenges they see ahead for Stafford County, to mention just a few. A great introduction to these two new leaders in Stafford County. You'll be glad you took the time to listen.

Erin Sanzero, President of Protect Stafford, talks with Tom about data centers. Topics include the goals and methods of the Protect Stafford organization, salient issues in data center site development, and the intersection of data center projects with quality of life in Stafford County, to mention just a few. A great overview of the topic for those desiring to know more. Don't pass it up!

Stafford County Schools' Superintendent, Dr. Daniel Smith, and Stafford School Board Chair, Ms. Maureen Siegmund, sit down with Tom to discuss developments in the school system. Topics include construction and growth, new programs and initiatives, and the changing demographics of the county, to mention just a few. Get to know your school system leaders. Check out the video today!

Tom offers an overview analysis of the upcoming Virginia elections at both the state and local levels. Guests include Stafford Democratic Committee chair, Howard Rudat, and Stafford Commissioner of the Revenue, Scott Mayausky. A knowledgeable and balanced discussion of the issues and dynamics of each race with consideration of the current political climate.

In this second of a two part series featuring the Fire & Rescue Department, Stafford County Fire Chief Joseph Cardello continues his discussion with Tom about the mission and goals of the Fire & Rescue Department while featuring the work of two department specialists. Public Health Specialist Kim Orr and Fire Inspector Iris Franklin provide detail on the nature and scope of their work and its impact on the citizens of Stafford County. Don't miss it.

Stafford County Fire Chief Joseph Cardello talks with Tom about the mission and goals of the Fire & Rescue Department while featuring the work of the Water Rescue Team. Captain Jonathan Hensen, who leads up the team, provides details on its mission and training while describing its role in the Hurricane Helene relief effort. This first in a two episode series featuring the Fire & Rescue Department is one you won't want to miss.

Tamara Olsen-Harper meets with Tom to talk about her decision to depart the federal Small Business Administration in the wake of the DOGE initiative and to begin her own business, Gredere LLC. An excellent discussion of the challenges of transitioning from government work to the private sector.

Stafford County is home to a number of performing arts organizations. Tom interviews representatives from two of them. Patrick A'Hearn is the CEO and Producing Artistic Director of the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts. And Bonita Keene is the Adminstrative Coordinator of the Stafford Opera Troupe. Both organizations boast wide recognition and impressive accomplishments and offerings. Check out this episode to find out more.

Tom sits down with two seniors soon to graduate from Stafford County Public Schools -- Michael "Finn" Pershau and Emily Herod. Both of these students competed in regional and state competitions this year -- Michael Pershau in basketball and Emily Herod in theater. The discussion focuses on the individual and group dynamics necessary to succeed in extracurricular teams and competitions. A great discussion you won't want to miss!

Managing Editor of the Fredericksburg Free Press, Joey LoMonaco, discusses local independent journalism with host Tom Coen. Topics include the history of the Fredericksburg Free Press, the role of independent journalism in the Stafford area, and the features and methods of the free press in reporting the news.

Guest Sue Henderson from Henderson Productions talks with host Tom Coen about historic preservation in Stafford County. Topics include Sue's work over the years on various boards and commissions in Stafford County as well as her recent efforts with the "Stafford African-American Heritage Trail" and the "Bringing Eliza Home Project."

FAMPO Administrator Ian Ollis outlines the Rappahannock River Bridge Project. Topics include routing options for the project, time-tables, cost, and opportunities for citizen involvement. Host Tom Coen also considers the larger subject of the role of MPOs in local transportation decision-making. A must-see for those interested not only in this project but in the process of decision-making for future transportation projects.

Guest David Kerr returns to discuss the outcome of the 2024 elections in November and what it means not only for the nation but the local Stafford community. Then he and Tom Coen consider the implications of the 2025 state and local elections as well. An episode packed with interesting discussions and insights.

Don Barger, Director of Innovations, Global Engagement, at IMB, brings Tom Coen up-to-date on artificial intelligence. Discussion includes topics like the use of A.I. in business and government, ethics and A.I., and A.I. applications in education. A great overview for those just getting started in exploring this complex topic.

Curry Roberts, President of the Fredericksburg Regional Alliance, sits down with Tom Coen to discuss data centers in Northern Virginia. Topics include data center power consumption, data center cooling, data center noise abatement, and other issues and concerns involving data center impacts on communities. A great primer on data centers for those new to the topic.

Tom and his guest, David Kerr, share their views on the upcoming 2024 national elections. Topics include polling results, campaign strategies, significant developments, down-ballot races, and much more. An illuminating discussion between two seasoned political scientists.

Michael Bolling, Chief Academic Officer for the Stafford County Public School System, gives an overview of workforce education while Moiz Jamal, Colonial Forge High School graduate and entrepreneur, discusses the challenges of starting a business as a student.

Tom discusses the Belle Plains Campground Project with Stafford resident and White Oak homeowner Brad Hatch. He also explains how "by right" development works in Stafford County and in Virginia.

Tom discusses new laws and initiatives in the Virginia legislature with 65th District Delegate Josh Cole and 27th District Senator Tara Durant.

Price Jett discusses the Patawomeck Museum and Cultural Center and its plans for the 4th of July while Ann Waters reviews the George Washington Foundation and its Independence Day activities at George Washington's Ferry Farm location. Tom finishes the episode with a overview of the Stafford County 4th of July Spectacular at Pratt Park.

Stafford County Commissioner of the Revenue, Scott Mayausky, talks about the budget process and the work of the commissioner's office regarding property assessments and procedures.

Tom Coen invites you to join him for the Season 1 premier of Stafford Connect on May 1st!