Town Talk

Art Crain and Juanita Shanks spoke about Second Chance Month, highlighting how access to employment, housing, and community support helps people rebuild their lives after incarceration while strengthening families and public safety, while 15-year-old Kora Lester—who is close to earning his barbering license—serves as an example of how early opportunities can help prevent cycles of incarceration across generations.

The Ceili Leahy Blood Drive will take place Friday, May 8, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Fredericksburg United Methodist Church, with many donation appointments still available. The Ceili Leahy Day of Service is scheduled for May 26 at James Monroe High School. The event will focus on highlighting the impact and importance of community service.

Jeff Stainbrook at Porter and Erin Creighton at the downtown branch discuss local history and the library’s involvement in Virginia’s VA250 programs. They share what the community can expect in the coming months. The Friends of the Library have also launched a new online store, and the Seed Library is now available downtown—with a new location coming soon to Porter.  librarypoint.org

Eve Whittacre, Sophia Whittacre, Bobby Hebert, and Cornelia Rutherford share a lively preview of the upcoming Renaissance Faire at Lake Anna Winery in Spotsylvania, running weekends from May 9 through June 7. They discuss what visitors can expect—from immersive entertainment and period costumes to interactive experiences that bring the Renaissance era to life. Tickets must be purchased online. We also look ahead to future plans for the Renaissance Faire.

CEO and Producing Artistic Director Patrick A’Hearn previews the high-energy production of Guys and Dolls (running May 13–June 28). He shares insight into the show’s dynamic staging, including how the set has been designed and how the theater space itself has been transformed to bring the story to life. The conversation also touches on an exciting upcoming addition to Riverside—a new sign that will soon be visible from I-95.  riversidedt.com

Meghann Cotter and Nick Cadwallender with an update on the Jeremiah Community. The innovative neighborhood will provide permanent housing paired with on-site healthcare, job training, and a built-in community designed to break the cycle of chronic homelessness. More than housing, it offers stability, dignity, and a clear path forward for those most in need. The public fundraising campaign will soon invite the community to step in and help turn the Micah vision into lasting impact.   micahfredericksburg.org

Executive Director Cait Woodward shares Hope House’s wish list—everyday essentials that grants often don’t cover, but are vital for daily life. These are the kinds of needs that rely on community support. They’re also developing a dedicated Teen Room, giving teens at Hope House a safe space of their own. We discuss what’s needed to bring this vision to life. Learn more and find out how you can help at Loisann's Hope House.

Step back in time on April 25 at Drums Along the Rappahannock! Join Dave Muraca and Allison Burgess as they preview this free VA250 event featuring the Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps. The program runs from 10 AM–2 PM--music, history, and hands-on fun for all ages. Updates on the new archaeology season at Ferry Farm—and a heads-up for families: summer camps are open and spots are still available (for now)!

Dr. Stephen Farnsworth, Professor of Political Science and International Affairs and Director of the Center for Leadership and Media Studies at the University of Mary Washington, breaks down the first months of Abigail Spanberger’s administration, including the stalled state budget, the redistricting vote, and inflation concerns. As he prepares to retire, Farnsworth also looks back on his career and ahead to what’s next.

EF High School Exchange Year is bringing the world to local classrooms, giving students a firsthand look at life in another country. Host parent Desiree Warlick is joined by exchange students Sille Adler of Denmark, who attends Spotsylvania High School, and Alessia Tammaro of Italy, a student at Louisa High School, along with regional coordinator Tina Smith to break down what the experience is really like—from adjusting to a new culture to opening your home. For more information, visit efexchangeyear.org.