Town Talk

June is National Homeownership Month, a time to recognize the importance of owning a home and the positive impact it has on individuals, families, and communities. Jason Tickle highlighted how homeownership helps build financial stability, strengthens neighborhoods, and contributes to the overall well-being of the country. Through his "First Saturdays are for Housing" program, held virtually on...

Supporting victims of domestic violence takes more than crisis intervention. Kathy Anderson says Empowerhouse is working to prevent abuse through school programs, educate the community through training, and provide life-saving services for victims. She says continued financial support is essential to meet the growing need in the region.

Special Olympics Virginia President David Thomason and athletes Beau Dail and Dennis Habel preview Summer Games in Richmond this weekend. Beau and Dennis are also competing in USA Games in Minnesota this summer. specialolympicsva.org

Author and hope and opportunity connector Tonia Garnett and Melissa Brown, CEO of Homes Empowering Recovery and Conscious Health, discuss the power of second chances and the realities of the recovery journey. They discuss the steps individuals can take toward healing, the challenges that can hinder recovery—including housing, employment, stigma, and access to care—and the importance of community...

Jason Haag and Chris Bowers discussed the growing need for foster families within the program. They explained that increasing the number of service dogs available for placement requires training more dogs, which in turn depends on having enough foster homes to care for and socialize them during their stages of development. We talk about upcoming events--and if you have an idea for an...

Annie Brulatour (Salem Church) and Aimee Dillon (Westmoreland) talk about the Central Rappahannock Regional Library’s annual Summer Reading program and why continuing to read during the summer months is so important. The program encourages readers of all ages to track their reading, complete activities, attend library events, and earn prizes throughout the summer. This year’s theme is “Unearth a...

Division Manager of Events Courtney Mersiowsky talks about the return of the Fredericksburg Duck Race on July 4th at Riverfront Park. The event will feature 2,000 rubber ducks racing down the Rappahannock River. Proceeds will benefit Friends of the Rappahannock and the City’s FUNd Parks Fund, supporting river conservation, park improvements, expanded access, and healthier outdoor spaces...

Christina O'Neill and Karen Daley preview “Virginia Resolved,” a two-day living history event taking place June 6–7 at Stratford Hall commemorating the 250th anniversary of Richard Henry Lee’s Resolution for Independence. The weekend features reenactments, demonstrations, colonial music, speakers, food, and interactive experiences that bring Virginia’s revolutionary history to life. Saturday’s...

Marcel Rotter, Brooke Di Lauro, and Keith Mellinger preview “World on a Plate: A Journey Through Global Cuisines,” a free five-week virtual course hosted by the University of Mary Washington beginning the week of June 22. Held via Zoom and open to the community, the series will explore the history, culture, traditions, and stories behind cuisines from around the world. Registration information is...

Cathleen Pessolano joins us to discuss the vital work their organization is doing to support families navigating the challenges of pediatric cancer. She talks about how the group provides practical assistance. Cathleen also explains the growing need for community involvement, including volunteers, partnerships, and financial donations that help keep these services available to families in need....