Town Talk

Director of First Year Admissions Sarah Lindberg and Dean of Admissions and Associate Vice-President Melissa Yakabouski with dates and info prospective University of Mary Washington students need. There are information sessions, tours and  upcoming Virginia College Application Week(s).  We talk about scholarship and aid opportunities.    admissions.umw.edu

Full steam ahead as building continues in Ladysmith on three more Habitat homes, with more about to begin.   Jason Tickle is holding virtual information sessions each Friday at noon this month and every first Saturday.   Volunteers are needed.  Future homeowners are being sought.   crrhfh.org

Aimee Hardy previews the Josh Hardy Superhero Celebration each year in memory of Josh, who loved superheroes and inspired many during his battle with cancer. The event, happening this year on October 17th at Strangeways Brewing on Lansdowne Road, celebrates Josh’s legacy. It’s also a fundraiser for the Fairy Godmother Project, a nonprofit that supports families facing pediatric cancer.

Fredericksburg Main Street Executive Director Chris Allen previews Quacktoberfest, a new fall celebration coming to Riverfront Park on October 17 from 2 to 6 p.m. The free, family-friendly afternoon will feature carnival rides and games, live music, food, vendors and the return of the Rubber Ducky Derby at 3 p.m. Chris Allen also talks about Treats in the Streets, giving families another reason to head downtown for some Halloween fun and plenty of sweet treats.

Mary Washington Healthcare Surgical Oncologist Dr. Rod Flynn during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  Dr. Flynn encourages the community to be proactive.   Knowing what is normal for your body, paying attention to changes, understanding your personal and family history, and having routine conversations with your doctor can help you make informed decisions about your care.    breastcare.mwhc.com

Kathi Austin and Scott Walker talk about the weekend event focusing on Hunter's Iron Works and American Independence October 10-11 at Pratt Park.  Learn about Hunter's Forge and it's role in the forming of America.   The weekend event is free but advanced registration requested at freedomforgefoundation.org/revolution-on-the-rappahannock

Cathy Walker and Lisa Durham preview PorchFest on Oct. 17, bringing local artists, music and community together along Marye and Littlepage streets. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is designed as a day to showcase local talent while giving neighbors a chance to gather and celebrate the community. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for ages 11-17, with children 10 and under admitted free.   rapp-arts.org

Justice Services Director Susan Sigmon and Executive Director Kathy Anderson talk about the domestic violence services offered by Empowerhouse. Susan says it's important to label the topic as domestic violence. She says it's not a an argument or a couple's issue. It's not a difficult time.   People are being hurt, she says.  Their 24-hour hotline number is 540-373-9373 or empowerhouseva.org

Spotsylvania Schools Social Workers Michelle Patton Swisher (wearing a shirt from the very first Rock Out Knock Out!) and Lisa Dolan are helping organize the 15th annual drive to collect more supplies for Treasure House, which provides needed items to homeless families and students. The community can help by picking up items from the donation lists provided at Southpointe Walmart or bringing new supplies from home. The drive runs Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Elizabeth McNally previews Save Jane, coming October 23 to a new location at Riverfront Park in downtown Fredericksburg. From noon to 10 p.m., more than 11,000 names and ages will be read aloud as Jane Doe or John Doe, representing child abuse cases from the past year in communities served by Safe Harbor.  Readers are needed for the event. Safe Harbor brings together the professionals involved in responding to child abuse and provides children with forensic and mental health services in a child-focused setting.   Learn more at safeharborva.org.