Town Talk

Battlefield District Supervisor Chris Yakabouski talks about the county’s newly approved budget and what it means for residents. He also explains why changes to convenience sites are needed. Yakabouski also discusses his decision to run for Commissioner of Revenue in November.

Historian Scott Walker will present the next talk in the VA250 “A Cultural Quilt” series on April 16 at 6:30 p.m. at the Central Rappahannock Regional Library. Walker will explore the history of Italians in Virginia—sharing not only historical insight, but also personal connections, as some of the individuals he discusses are his own relatives. This free program is part of an ongoing series highlighting the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the region, with a special focus on countries connected to Fredericksburg through its sister city relationships.

Earth Day will be celebrated April 18 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Old Mill Park, featuring a full day of environmental education, activities, vendors, and family-friendly fun. Callie Brown and Courtney Mersiowsky preview the event, highlighting opportunities to learn about sustainability and conservation. Only handicapped parking at Old Mill Park, with a free shuttle service running from the satellite lot at Germania and Charles streets to the festival entrance. earthdayfred.com

Atlas of Independence: John Adams and the American Revolution offers a vivid, ground-level look at the fight for independence as Chris Mackowski explores his work with the Emerging Revolutionary War series. He examines how John Adams became one of the Revolution’s most forceful voices—driving the case for independence in the Continental Congress. The discussion also pulls back the curtain on Adams as a person. Chris talks about the challenges of writing about the Revolutionary era today.

Work is about to get underway on eight new Habitat for Humanity homes on Stirrup Lane in Ladysmith. Jason Tickle says the project is part of their effort to expand affordable housing in the area. Those interested in future homes are encouraged to become loan-ready as soon as possible. The application deadline for next year’s builds is fast approaching at crrhfh.org.

Executive Director Ann Kloeckner sheds light on a critical gap in the legal system—civil cases where people facing serious issues like eviction, debt, or family matters are not guaranteed an attorney if they can’t afford one. She explains how this reality impacts real lives and underscores the urgent need for accessible legal support. The conversation also dives into the broader housing crisis, examining why affordable housing is essential for stability, equity, and strong communities. Finally, she highlights practical efforts to bridge the justice gap, including the “Lawyer in the Library” program, offered on the first and third Tuesdays, and the upcoming “Know Your Rights as a Tenant” event on April 22. legalaidwork.org

Horticulture Manager Alexis Fox previews the annual Spring Plant Sale, which begins April 10 at 750 Kings Highway and runs through May 16. The sale will be open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon. Residents will have the opportunity to purchase a variety of plants, with availability changing throughout the sale based on what is ready at the time. Offerings may include vegetables, herbs, flowers and hanging baskets. Proceeds from the sale support programs that help adults with developmental disabilities. The plant sale will conclude May 16 with a 50th anniversary celebration for RAAI.

Cait Woodward from Loisann's Hope House and Great Train Race Director Brian Pessolano preview the May 3rd race in downtown Fredericksburg. The mile race for ages 6-17. The 1/2 mile George Dashington and the 1/4 Cabose Run. gtr.runfarc.com

Sgts. Amanda Mele of the Spotsylvania County Sheriff's Office and Steven Curtis of the Stafford County Sheriff's Office preview a regional senior outreach event scheduled for April 4 in Fredericksburg. The Triad Expo for Senior Adults takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at James Monroe High School. Admission is free and open to the public. Organizers say the event will focus on scam awareness and prevention, along with providing information about Project Lifesaver, a program designed to assist in locating individuals with cognitive conditions who may wander. Representatives from multiple regional agencies will attend to share resources with older adults and caregivers. The expo is part of ongoing TRIAD efforts to connect law enforcement and community organizations with senior residents to improve safety and access to services.

Adam West talks with Marcus Kahn ahead of University of Mary Washington’s national championship game this Sunday afternoon (4:30 ESPN+) . The Eagles are on the brink of a title, and Kahn discusses the team’s mindset, preparation, and what it will take to finish the run.

Adam West talks with Marcus Kahn ahead of University of Mary Washington’s national championship game this Sunday afternoon (4:30 ESPN+) . The Eagles are on the brink of a title, and Kahn discusses the team’s mindset, preparation, and what it will take to finish the run.

Xander Hernandez and Lisa Dunnivan talk about fostering future service dogs with Leashes of Valor, sharing how the program works, the training involved, and the impact these dogs have on veterans—Xander from personal experience and Lisa through fostering about eight dogs—while encouraging others to consider opening their homes to help. leashesofvalor.org

Cornelia Rutherford, Fox Mealo Cornell, and Carmon Cornell preview the 2026 Ren Faire at the Lake Anna Winery, running May 9 through June 7, and discuss the need for volunteers—especially during current weekend set-up—while highlighting the Faire’s strong sense of community and its focus on education and family-friendly experiences. varf.org

Patrick A'Hearn, CEO and Producing Artistic Director of the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts, talks about the theater’s current production of Little Women: The Broadway Musical, running through April 26, previews upcoming shows Guys and Dolls and The Mousetrap, and discusses how Riverside continues to build its reputation as a strong and growing presence in the acting community.

Danae Peckler of the Historic Fredericksburg Foundation discusses the work of historic preservation in Fredericksburg and the challenges that come with maintaining older structures in a growing community. She also talks about the role preservation plays in supporting the local economy and why she would like to see an economic impact study to better measure that contribution. hffi.org

As Curry Roberts prepares to retire as president of the Fredericksburg Regional Alliance at the University of Mary Washington, he reflects on a career in public service and economic development. He discusses his time in state government. The conversation also covers major regional projects, including data center growth, a proposed medical school, and efforts to rebrand the Fredericksburg area. Looking ahead, Roberts shares what’s next—from potential consulting work to fishing to Virginia Tech athletics.

Mark Travis, Long-Term Care Supervisor, and Amy Swift, Social Services Director, talk about why Long-Term Care services are so important for families in Spotsylvania County. They say these programs help older adults and people with disabilities stay safe, supported, and as independent as possible in their own homes. The discussion also takes a closer look at why Long-Term Care matters locally and clears up some common misconceptions about who qualifies and how the services are used.

Dave Muraca and Allison Ellis highlight upcoming events at Kenmore and Ferry Farm. These include 18th Century Game Night on March 20, Colonial Faire on April 4, and the Virginia 250 event “Drums Along the Rappahannock” on April 25. For more details, visit Kenmore.org.

Associate Vice President for Alumni and Donor Engagement Mark Thaden and Executive Director of Annual Giving Shelby Orlando preview Mary Wash Day, a high-energy 24-hour giving event running from March 25 at noon to March 26 at noon. The event highlights the power of participation, with challenges and matching gifts designed to multiply donations and unlock even more support for the University of Mary Washington. They also look ahead to Reunion Weekend (May 29–31) and the 100th anniversary of the beloved Devil-Goat Day celebration.

After helping preserve and interpret the region’s Colonial past, Executive Director Anne Darron is preparing to retire in April. The Mary Washington graduate reflects on her career in historic preservation, the importance of protecting local landmarks, and the power of museums to tell the stories that help shape the community. washingtonheritagemuseums.org