Tonia Garnett’s memoir tells the deeply personal story of her journey through abuse, addiction, and incarceration—and the difficult work of rebuilding her life afterward. Through honest reflection, Garnett shares the challenges she faced, the turning points that helped change her path, and the resilience it took to move forward. In the introduction, she writes that the title is “both a declaration and a surrender,” adding that the book is not meant to be skimmed.  She says the book traces the hills and valleys of life. The memoir is currently available through her website at toniatalksnow.com.

Karli Murray (Vice-Chair) and Susan Moss (Chair) preview Historic Garden Week in Fredericksburg on April 21. This special tour will feature homes and gardens along Upper Caroline Street, near the Rising Sun Tavern. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore beautifully maintained properties while learning about the area’s architecture, landscape design, and local history. Historic Garden Week is a statewide celebration, with tours hosted in communities across Virginia. The Fredericksburg tour is organized and managed by the Rappahannock Valley Garden Club. Visit gcvirginia.org for details and advance ticket purchases.

Executive Director Mimi Mitchell shares an update on plans to build six new homes in Mayfield, along with launching a rehabilitation program and restarting critical home repairs for local families. She also highlights what shoppers can find at the ReStore  with proceeds supporting Habitat’s mission. fredhab.org.

Megan Samples, Joseph Lyttle, and Amanda Strawn preview the upcoming Community Connections Expo happening March 17 at the Fredericksburg Convention Center. The free event will feature more than 70 vendors, offering valuable resources and information for residents across the region. For full details, visit Fredericksburg Area Health and Support Services fahass.org.

Battlefield District Supervisor Chris Yakabouski discussed the county’s proposed budget and the financial challenges facing the board.   He encouraged residents to attend the March 26 public hearing at Courtland High School or to share their thoughts during Board of Supervisors meetings, noting that public input often influences final decisions. The conversation also touched on the role of data centers.   Yakabouski says community engagement is critical as the county makes important funding choices.

Here's a sign spring is near--the Rappahannock Education Farm is about to begin volunteer hours again.  Rich Larochelle looks back at lessons learned in 2025 and plans for 2026---including use this year of a barn and greenhouse on the White Oak property.   rappahannockfarm.org

Leadership coach Janelle Donohue works with individuals and organizations to strengthen teams and improve workplace effectiveness. In this conversation, she breaks down the Six Types of Working Genius framework — Wonder, Invention, Discernment, Galvanizing, Enablement and Tenacity — and explains how understanding your natural strengths can boost productivity and reduce frustration on the job. Donohue gives examples of how each genius shows up in real workplaces and why most people thrive when they focus on the areas where they are naturally strongest.  More details at [email protected]

Juanita Shanks previews the upcoming Hall of Change Gala on April 11, highlighting the impact of Failsafe-ERA’s work supporting families affected by incarceration. The evening will showcase success stories, raise critical funds, and shine a light on programs that help break cycles and build stability for children.   There are still opportunities for sponsors and supporters to get involved. Learn more at failsafe-era.org.

Chris Bowers, Linda Palmer and Jason Haag say the growing demand for service dogs means Leashes of Valor urgently needs more foster families. To continue pairing highly trained dogs with veterans, the organization relies on dedicated volunteers like Linda, who reflects on her three years of hands-on involvement. Others help by filling in on weekends or when primary fosters travel — support that keeps the program moving forward. The team also previews upcoming fundraisers including Mutts & Mimosas on May 2, the Pro-Am, and Casino Night on May 9, and shares how you can get involved at leashesofvalor.org.

Jason Tickle shares an update on the upcoming build(s) in Ladysmith — and construction is about to begin. Volunteers are especially needed in the middle of the week, with opportunities available for individuals and groups ready to lend a hand. If you think you might be a candidate for a future self-help home build, now is a great time to learn more. Plus, get details on the First Saturday housing Zoom meetings.   More information at crrhfh.org.