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Xander Hernandez and Karen Meadows highlight the life-changing impact service dogs have on veterans, offering independence, confidence, and critical emotional support. Their focus now is expanding the program by placing more highly trained dogs with veterans who need them.

A major need is for volunteer fosters, with flexible options ranging from daily care to weekends or holidays, making it accessible for many lifestyles. We talk about the need for community members to support the mission through financial donations or by contributing items from a wish list. More information on how to help is available at leashesofvalor.org.

Director of First Year Admissions Sarah Lindberg and Dean of Admissions and Associate Vice President Melissa Yakabouski share practical advice for students and parents as key college admission decisions are released.

They address how students should handle disappointing early decision results and outline productive steps to stay on track for college acceptance.

The discussion also focuses on paying for college, completing the FAFSA, and writing a compelling college essay that helps applicants stand out. The Regular Decision deadline at UMW is February 1, with Open House opportunities on February 16 and April 3.   umw.edu/admissions/apply.

Scott Neal introduces the Ability Baseball League, a new inclusive league giving youth and adults with developmental disabilities the chance to play baseball in a supportive, team-focused environment. Games will be held this spring and fall at Ability Field at the Sunshine Ballpark.  It's a partnership with Fredericksburg Parks, Recreation and Events and the Sunshine Ballpark Foundation.

The league serves players ages 5–17 and adults 18 and older.  Registration for the spring season is now open, with a deadline of February 14. Details and sign-up information are available at abilitybaseballleague.com.

Dr. Sadie Ahanchi with Oracle Heart and Vascular in Fredericksburg talks about keeping blood flowing throughout the body and explains why vascular surgery is different from heart surgery. Heart surgery focuses on treating the heart itself, while vascular surgery treats the blood vessels that carry blood to and from the heart throughout the body. She breaks down common vascular conditions in plain language and why they often go unnoticed. We discuss the importance of screenings, early warning signs, and how modern treatments can prevent serious complications.

Rich Larochelle reflects on a productive 2025 at the farm in White Oak.   It was a time of  major infrastructure improvements and expanded community impact.   Already in 2026, a new barn is already in place, and construction on a greenhouse is nearly complete.

Rich says the farm’s goal this year is to donate 60,000 pounds of fresh produce to local partners addressing food insecurity. Rappahannock Education Farm is also working to expand educational opportunities, offering more hands-on learning about agriculture, nutrition, and sustainability. Information on volunteering or making donations is available at rappahannockfarm.org.