"Library's 15th Anniversary: Triumphs and Turmoil in Howell Branch!"

Trivia Question❓

What famous historical figure visited Fredericksburg, VA during the Civil War and famously said "If they want war, let it begin here!"?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Exploring Downtown Fredericksburg, VA with Ginger Walker & Jeremy Grey

Central Rappahannock Regional Library’s Howell Branch Celebrates 15 Years of Service and Community Growth

The William J.

Howell Branch of Central Rappahannock Regional Library in Fredericksburg, VA, is celebrating its 15th anniversary on October 9.

Originally opened as England Run Branch in 2010, the library was renamed in 2018 to honor William J.

Howell.

The branch has become a community hub, hosting popular events like CRRL-Con and the Rappahannock Writers’ Conference.

It offers a wide range of resources and services, including access to technology, meeting rooms, and outreach initiatives to ensure accessibility for all customers.

The public is invited to join the celebration at the branch.

Jennifer Casarotti has been named the new Director of Fredericksburg Parks, Recreation & Events (FPRE).

Bringing over 20 years of expertise in both local and federal parks and recreation, Casarotti will lead the city’s parks, programs, and community events to ensure they remain inclusive and welcoming.

Casarotti’s career began with Spotsylvania Parks & Recreation and expanded to the Headquarters Marine Corps, where she managed large-scale commercial recreation operations across global installations.

Her roles included overseeing multi-million dollar budgets, business planning, and construction projects at the Department of Defense level.

Returning to Fredericksburg, she served as Superintendent of Leisure Services, fostering partnerships and improving resident access before advancing to Assistant Director.

Selected through a competitive process, Casarotti now aims to drive the Parks Master Plan and elevate recreational experiences citywide.

Fredericksburg residents can look forward to well-maintained parks, innovative programming, and ongoing community engagement under her leadership.

This newsletter sponsored by

Cork & Table: “Fredericksburg flavor, served with a personal touch.”

If you’re looking for a dining experience that feels both intimate and inspired, Cork & Table delivers with charm.

Nestled in the heart of downtown, this chef-driven restaurant offers a rotating seasonal menu, hand-selected wine pairings, and warm, personal service that makes every visit feel like a special occasion.

Whether it’s date night, dinner with friends, or your first time in town, Cork & Table captures the spirit of Fredericksburg in every bite.

Slugging in Stafford Sees Resurgence Amid Infrastructure Enhancements

Slugging, the casual carpooling tradition in Stafford County, is making a strong comeback, thanks to improved commuter infrastructure and effective local initiatives.

A recent GWRideConnect study highlighted renewed slugging activity at the Staffordboro Park and Ride Lot on Route 610, and for the first time since the pandemic, at the Warrenton Road Park and Ride Lot on Route 17.

This revival is fueled by OmniRide’s expanded commuter bus routes, connecting more parking lots across Stafford and neighboring Spotsylvania.

Since the 1970s, slugging has helped ease I-95 traffic, with commuters sharing rides to major destinations like the Pentagon.

Innovations like the ParkZen app, which shows live parking availability, and the planned 500-space Park and Ride lot along Olde Forge Drive, are aimed at removing transit barriers.

As these enhancements unfold, Stafford County commuters are set to enjoy more accessible and stress-free travel options.