Good morning, Fredericksburg.

On Friday, Aug. 14, a book signing and puppy adoption event drew neighbors at a local community center, offering a chance to pick up new reads and meet adoptable puppies.

A memorial bench on the Rappahannock River Heritage Trail was installed on July 21 in Fredericksburg to honor Zach Hatcher and Chris Kucera, who died two years ago in a plane crash.

Friends and family plan a fall dedication to celebrate their lasting impact on the community.

Central Rappahannock River Habitat for Humanity is building a new home for veterans in Ladysmith, with Fredericksburg United Methodist Church volunteers working on the siding on Friday and interior painting set to begin soon.

UMW expands mental health support by launching CrisisNow, a 24/7 hotline at its Talley Center for Counseling Services in Lee Hall, Room 106.

Students and staff can access immediate care during crises as the service works with existing campus protocols.

The University of Mary Washington named two Washington and three Alvey scholars for 2026 and awarded full-ride scholarships to high-achieving students from Virginia and Maryland.

Fredericksburg residents sent emails and letters clearly supporting Stan Jones (the only candidate with public backing) for the vacant at-large School Board seat, noting his extensive education experience.

The board will vote Monday on the interim appointment, with a November election set for a permanent role.

Rep. Eugene Vindman announced that Caroline and Spotsylvania counties will receive federal Head Start funds for early childhood education and family support services.

The Department of Health and Human Services awarded $1.1 million to Caroline County and $1.2 million to Spotsylvania County.

VDOT announced lane closures for road work scheduled Aug.

16-22 in the Fredericksburg District, including single and double lane closures near I-95 Exits 143 and 126 in Stafford County - drivers should allow extra time.

Melissa Brown has built a recovery ecosystem in town by acquiring Conscious Healing and Homes Empowering Recovery to provide trauma-based treatment, recovery housing, and job training.

The outpatient center offers a 14-week program (four weeks of intensive sessions) and is expanding workforce partnerships to help clients gain lasting support.