SL Feb by FXBG Neighbors

FEBRUARY 2024

STAFFORD

Living

The Watson Family: CRAFTING THEIR STORY ON AND OFF THE BALL FIELD

Cover Photo by Karen Presecan Photography

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PU BLICATION TEA M

DEAR STAFFORD LIVING FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS, Love is in the air for certain, and hopefully you are all simply catching cooties and not a cold. While we hope you’re keeping warm inside, we have quite a few stories to share with you that will warm your heart this month. First, is our cover story: Brittany and Kyle Watson’s tale of establishing their new home in South Stafford. Read how they give back to the community through their love of baseball, all while wrangling three boys and adding more meaning to the word “neighbor.” We’d also like to wish you a Happy Valentine’s Day, and, while we don’t have any tips for heartbreak, we do have some encouraging words from expert Linda Osorio, who shares how massage therapy can alleviate chronic pain. Speaking of therapy, you’ll get to meet the sweetest therapy dog in the area, Rosie, and her owner and handler, Thelma Poock. You’ll hear their fur-bulous story about the paw-sitive impact they’re making within our community libraries and schools. We spotlight local business NK Floors, Cherice Taylor has more advice for parents in our Education Corner, and we introduce our newest student intern, Tayler Tanks, this issue, as she highlights the mission of inclusivity that the Black Student Union fosters through their events. Inclusivity is another theme in our Charity Spotlight, too; you’ll read about Cooking Autism, Inc.’s mission of empowering individuals with autism through teaching essential culinary skills and various other life lessons. I’m learning some lessons, too, in piecing together what I hope is a valuable, engaging, and entertaining resource for you all each month. If you have feedback for me or would like to nominate an organization or individual that you believe deserves a shoutout, cover story, or feature, please let me know. I’d love to connect with you and highlight the many people that make our area an awesome place to live!

Dori Stewart Publisher

Crissy Hall Publisher’s Assistant

Mallory Hardgrove Content Coordinator

Laura Anderson Designer

Karen Presecan Photographer

Cherice Taylor Contributing Writer

Tayler Tanks Contributing Writer

ADVERTISING

Contact: Dori Stewart Email: doristewart@bestversionmedia.com Phone: (540) 288-7928

FEEDBACK/IDEAS/SUBMISSIONS:

Have feedback, ideas or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: doristewart@bestversionmedia.com

CONTENT SUBMISSION DEADLINES:

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Mallory Hardgrove

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Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2024 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

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EX PERT CONTR IBUTORS To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Dori Stewart at BVM at: doristewart@bestversionmedia.com or 540-288-7928

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EXPERT

contributor

Alleviating Chronic Pain Through Massage Therapy: A Holistic Approach to Wellness By Linda Osorio, LMT, RYT and Owner of Bear River Massage Therapy

I distinctly recall my first experience with professional massage. Struggling with excruciating pain in my right shoulder, as a single mom and waitress without health insurance, seeking relief without accruing medical bills became my mission. Rather than opting for pain medication, I pondered the idea of having someone massage my shoulder, prompting a quick search for local massage therapy services. Within 24 hours, I found a local therapist willing to see me. Affording only a 30-minute session priced at $50 in 2002, the prospect of being pain-free outweighed the cost. During the session, he pinpointed my pain and dedicated the majority of the time to that troublesome area. To my amazement, the relief and increased mobility were immediate, leaving me shocked at the transformative power of massage. As I handed over payment in the lobby, I couldn’t help but think, “I want to do this! I want to help people in pain when they feel they have no other options.” That feeling was my catalyst and remains my “Why,” motivating me to always bring my best to the table– literally, ha!-- for my clients. Chronic Pain is On the Rise Chronic pain, a pervasive global issue diminishing daily life for millions, prompted a growing interest in alternative therapies, especially in the last 30 years. Among them, massage therapy emerged as a holistic approach to alleviating chronic pain. Massage therapy, extending beyond the luxurious spa treatment stereotype, has a profound scientific basis in promoting overall healing. Used for thousands of years worldwide, it targets muscle tension, enhances circulation, and triggers the body’s natural painkillers, providing a dual benefit of pain relief and improved mood. Top 5 Reasons to Get a Massage for Pain Relief: • Muscle Relaxation: Alleviates muscle tension, a common source of chronic pain, by promoting relaxation and increasing blood flow. • Improved Circulation: Enhances blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients to muscles, aiding in the healing process and reducing pain. • Enhanced Flexibility and Range of Motion: Increases joint flexibility and improves range of motion, especially beneficial for conditions like arthritis. • Stress Reduction: Induces relaxation, lowering stress hormones and promoting a sense of well-being. • Release of Trigger Points: Targeted techniques release knots of muscle fibers contributing to chronic pain, providing relief and restoring normal muscle function.

Motivated by my personal journey, I ventured into the field of massage therapy, completing my training in 2004. In 2008, I established my inaugural massage therapy center, Massage Matters, with invaluable guidance from mentors. Presently, I am the sole owner of Bear River Massage Therapy Center, and it is an honor to collaborate with some of the most skilled and seasoned licensed massage therapists and acupuncturists in the region! A strong belief in the benefits of massage and efforts to educate local healthcare professionals contributed to my success as a small business, even during a recession. Over two decades as a licensed massage therapist, I’ve witnessed numerous success stories attesting to the efficacy of massage therapy in alleviating chronic pain. From reduced joint pain in arthritis sufferers to improved sleep quality in fibromyalgia patients, the evidence underscores the importance of a personalized approach. Massage therapy serves as a source of hope for those grappling with chronic pain, offering not only physical relief but also a pathway to improved mental and emotional well-being. At Bear River Massage Therapy Center, embracing the holistic benefits of massage empowers individuals to reclaim their lives from the clutches of chronic pain, fostering a renewed sense of vitality and health. Give Bear River Massage Therapy a call today at (540) 356 -5535 and ask about our new client offer or visit www.BearRiverMassage.com!

February2024 5

RESIDENT

feature

The Watson Family:

CRAFTING THEIR STORY ON AND OFF THE BALL FIELD By Mallory Hardgrove Photos by Kyle and Brittany Watson; Karen Presecan Photography

eet the Watsons– a spirited family of five who has chosen to establish roots in South Stafford, where sports, camaraderie, and community combine to craft their story. Kyle (34) and Brittany (36) Watson both grew up in nearby Prince William County, and a chance work encounter “about 12 years ago” quickly evolved into romance and the two “were instantly inseparable.” Brittany explained, “Kyle quickly introduced me to his love of the outdoors, starting with me catching my first– admittedly extremely small– fish and my first turkey-hunting experience.” Solidified by their shared passions for sports, comedy, and country concerts, their relationship grew into what it is today. Surprisingly, too, their families had connections– “my mom and Kyle’s dad realized they went to rival high schools and had shared friends, but they never really knew each other.” Yet Kyle and Brittany’s paths never crossed until fate brought them together. It’s definitely a “small world,” and for Kyle and Brittany, their world revolves around their three boys: Brady (10), Baylor (5), and Bowen (3) all keep the couple on their toes. Kyle owns Grand Slam Plumbing, which he started in 2023, and where his twin brother, Bryce, works alongside him. “Kyle worked extremely hard to gain experience and knowledge for over 10 years in the field before ultimately studying hard and achieving his master license,” said Brittany. Brittany graduated from Radford University with her bachelor’s degree in communications. “I first spent time interning for the Potomac Nationals, now the Fredericksburg Nationals, and then spent ten years working for a non-profit that raised funds and advocated for the creation

6 StaffordLiving

and expansion of new programs for public education,” explained Brittany, who decided in 2019 that it was time to pivot in her career; she’s worked for Booz Allen Hamilton ever since. When they aren’t working, you can find them on the baseball diamond– you didn’t think Kyle named his business after one of the coolest plays in baseball without loving the sport, did you? “All three of our boys are extremely active,” Brittany said. Their oldest, Brady (10), has been playing baseball since he was four years old, plays flag football, and was elected as class representative for Margaret Brent Elementary’s student council. “He is passionate about working with his classmates to help his community through donation drives and improving their school through fundraisers.” Like his older brother, Baylor (5) plays baseball and flag football, and you “can always find him outside practicing to improve his skills!” The youngest of the bunch, Bowen (3), enjoys his sports classes as well, participating in Little Fielders (baseball) and Little Kickers (soccer), eager to “finally be old enough to join a league team.”

When they aren’t at the actual ball fields, they can be found enjoying the outdoors, riding their four-wheelers, hunting, and playing wiffle ball with dad. Their dogs, Jake and Lola, along with their school of fish, complete their family dynamic. Jake, a three-year-old German shorthaired pointer, however, runs the roost– “he’s always the center of attention”-- but Lola, the 11-year-old Shih Tzu, still enjoys the young dog’s antics. The family’s shared passion and love for sports certainly unites them, and it helps them give back to the community as well, as Kyle coaches in the Stafford Baseball League. “Kyle [also] dabbled in his first season as a flag football coach this year,” explained Brittany, but baseball rules. “We are a big baseball family! He enjoys sharing his passion for the game and helping kids improve in the sport.” This notion of giving back and helping a neighbor in need isn’t new to the Watsons, but it is something that they love most about their neighborhood and the area in general. “We first moved to Stafford in 2015, purchasing our first home in the Widewater area,” explained Brittany. Later on, and like many, unknowingly

at the time, they purchased property in South Stafford right before COVID hit. “It was a blessing and something to look forward to during a difficult time,” she said. The family chose to build with a local construction company, Hour Homes, and moved in by the end of March 2020. “While we may not have many neighbors, we have some of the kindest and most generous ones,” Brittany said. “Any time one of us is in need, we are all there to help. We look out for each other, our children, and our pets.” Looking out includes Kyle fixing plumbing issues and making suggestions, gathering together for holidays and special occasions, celebrating achievements, and helping neighbors when they’re in need. “The definition of neighbor has taken on new meaning,” Brittany said, adding that was even more imperative to have good people nearby during the pandemic. “We’re so lucky: living along the backroads, driving past cattle pastures and cornfields– away from the hustle and bustle– is exactly what we wanted while still having everything we need 20 minutes from us.” They most enjoy their redefined neighborhood community and the “small-town feel” of the

February2024 7

© Best Version Media area: “There is a sense of community and friendliness, and we couldn’t have asked for better schools for our children,” adding that each boy has fantastic teachers and they’ve had “the best experience.” When the Watsons want a little more than the tranquility of their home, they take to Emerald Isle or the Outer Banks. “We both grew up going to Emerald Isle with our families. We love to reminisce with our kids and take them to all of the special spots that our parents took us when we were kids. We also enjoy the Outer Banks. The beach is our happy place!” If they aren’t taking a special trip, hunting or fishing, they’re still quite content and happy going to sporting events around the DMV. The Fred Nats, Baltimore Orioles, and the Washington Capitals are their favorite local teams. Beyond their bustling lives, they relish any opportunity to frequent some of the “fantastic restaurants” in downtown Fredericksburg or going for a tall lager at Barley Naked Brewery. They prefer to support local businesses, too, such as Warrior Coffee, and their kids participate in numerous activities at the Field House in Fredericksburg. They enjoy taking advantage of the many parks in the area, too, but Willowmere is a favorite because of “the bike trail and playground.” In this season of their lives, though, if they are not spending time with both of their families, who they are “blessed to have close” to them in Stafford and Spotsylvania Counties, you can find them “sitting on the sidelines or coaching on the ball field!” For the Watsons, South Stafford means family, community, and the cherished bond of shared experiences in a vibrant, close-knit setting. Would you like your family to be featured in an upcoming issue? If so, please email mhardgrove@bestversionmedia.com.

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

corner

twins. They have lived overseas as missionaries, working together to build ministries, and now work together in the flooring business. At NK Floors, we believe in our core values: quality, integrity, superior work ethic, effective communication, respect, and flexibility. NK Floors is a company that is committed to quality in the services we provide, from flooring sales to installations. As team members, we bring quality to our company and customers. We expect honesty and dependability. We strive to have good character, and our actions match our words. Our goal is to do it right the first time. We are professionals and craftsmen who aim to demonstrate this in all areas. We put our best effort into every aspect of our work to get the job done and implement skills and procedures to carry this out. We expect continuous improvement. We constantly seek to improve, and effective communication is one of those critical areas. We actively listen to directions and are mindful of concerns. We respect customers and listen with empathy and a positive attitude. As a business, we seek conflict resolution with integrity and respectful communication and adapt and make changes when necessary for personal and company growth. We are ready to innovate and excel to increase our efficiency and productivity.

The Art of Flooring Installation with NK Floors By Karie Owens

NK Floors is a family-owned business with a vision to provide superior products and services, invest in the future through training and partnerships, and give back by helping others. We are a premier provider of nearly all types of flooring for both residential and commercial applications. We work alongside leading manufacturers. Typically, we can sell and install high-quality flooring for less. Our vision was birthed through our experience of flooring installation and sales, working with missions and people from different parts of the world, and our affinity for developing relationships with family and community. NK Floors owners, Nathan and Karie Owens, dreamed of establishing a family business built on Nathan’s outstanding skill in flooring installation. As a boy, Nathan installed all types of flooring, working alongside his father. His passion and knowledge for flooring installation inspired the family’s interest so much that it became a family business. Nathan and Karie have nine children, with two sets of

10 StaffordLiving

The Owens family and the NK Floors Team are committed to serving our customers and community. Serving inspires our company and us as individuals. We look for needs and seek ways to fulfill them. We are empowered by our faith to reach others. This has been true of our company and of our service to others all over the world. After faith and service, growth is our next inspiration. “If you are not growing, you are decaying.” Nathan often says. This is true of personal, spiritual, and company growth. We constantly seek ways to develop from where we are and reach goals to take us to the next level. This is where we get our motto, “Next level, precision flooring.” Our installation crews have grown from just one crew to over 50 crews. Our team members are certified flooring installers and are knowledgeable sales and customer advocates. We have a brand-new, beautifully accommodating showroom and warehouse and the ambition to install flooring in many businesses and homes in our community. The sky is the limit. From the second a customer makes first contact, through choosing the flooring to accommodate their needs, to the installation, and to the final walk-through, we know flooring. When selecting a product, we see the customer as an individual. We take the vision expressed during a consultation and work diligently to make it a reality. We factor in style preference, the product needed for the best outcome, and cost-effectiveness. Installation is an art, and NK Floors does it with passion and precision. We look forward to transforming your home from a distant dream to a present existence.

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of events

February - March

CALENDAR

@Wine & Design Time: 6:30pm Cost: $43/pp 502 Sophia St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Sat., Feb 10 Eagle Con

Time: 10am- 4pm 2400 Airport Ave. Fredericksburg, VA 22407

Sun., Feb. 11 Paint & Puppy LOV

@Chancellor Ruritan Club Time: 2- 4pm Cost: $40/pp 5994 Plank Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22407 Benefitting Leashes of Valor For more information visit leashesofvalor.org/events/

Mon., Feb 12 Cooking Corner: Chocolate Covered Strawberries @Fredericksburg Branch Time: 6- 7pm 1201 Caroline St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Tues., Feb 13 Family Feud Trivia

@Full Distance Brewing Time: 6:30pm 650 Corporate Dr, Ste 101 Stafford, Virginia 22554

Sat., Feb 17 Yoga Teacher Training

To register visit Houseofyogaacademy.com

Sat., Feb 17 Cryptid Valentine’s Crawl

@Madame’s Oddities Time: 6pm- 10pm 2011 Princess Anne St., Ste 101 Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Sat., Feb 17 & Sun., Feb 18 A Taste of Romance Brunch

@Belle Grove Plantation Time: 11 am & 1 pm 9221 Belle Grove Dr. King George, VA 22485 For more info & tickets visit https://www.bellegroveplantation. com/calendar

Sun., Feb 18 Art Buzz Kids- Puppy Paint @Wine & Design Time: 11am Cost: $20/pp 502 Sophia St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Sun., Feb 24 Bottomless MimosasMoonlit Lotus

@Wine & Design Time: 11am Cost: $43/pp 502 Sophia St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Sat., Feb 24 The Royal Ball

@Stafford County Parks & Recreation Time: 5- 7:30pm 1739 Richmond Hwy. Stafford, VA 22554

Sat., Feb 24 Time With a Therapy Dog @Porter Branch Time: 10- 11am 2001 Parkway Blvd. Stafford, VA 22554

Sun., Feb. 25 Leashes of Valor Volunteer Day @Axel’s Place Time: 10am- 2pm 8407 Old Plank Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22407 For more information visit leashesofvalor.org/events/

Fri., Mar. 1 29th Annual Johnny P. Johnson Teen Art Show Opening @Fredericksburg Branch Time: 7- 8:30pm 1201 Caroline St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Multiple Day Events Sat., Feb. 10- Sun., Feb. 11 FXBG KidFest @Fredericksburg Convention Center 2371 Carl D. Silver Pkwy. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Every Wednesday Night Trivia with Trapper @6 Bears & A Goat Brewing Company Time: 7pm 1140 International Pkwy. Fredericksburg, VA 22406 Now showing thru Sun., Mar. 24 Jersey Boys @Riverside Center for the Performing Arts 95 Riverside Pkwy. Fredericksburg, VA At the time this magazine went to print, all event times and locations were accurate, but please check event websites for the most current information. Some events may have been postponed or canceled.

Want a financial advisor that knows your name? I moved to Fredericksburg in 2012 after transitioning out of the U.S. Army, where I was a Blackhawk Helicopter Crewchief. I still serve one weekend each month in the U.S. Air National Guard as an F-16 Maintainer. Our city is a wonderful place to raise a family, and you may see me on some of our biking trails, at a local BBQ restaurant, or at an Ice Cream shop downtown with my wife and three daughters. I am passionate about taking the opportunity to really make a difference in the lives of the local families and small business owners I work with by taking the time to listen and find out what is truly important to them. We use an established process and partner together throughout life to help meet your long-term financial goals. Dan Whitley | Financial Advisor 908 1/2 Charles St. | Fredericksburg, VA 22401

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DAN WHITLEY ~ EDWARD JONES DAN WHITLEY ~ EDWARD JONES I moved to Fredericksburg in 2012 after transitioning out of the U.S. Army, where I

education corner Educational Resources PARENTS

By Cherice Taylor

Cherice Taylor, M.A. in Education Administration and Center Director at Sylvan Learning, is an experienced educator and community leader involved in the Rotary Club of Stafford and a Charter member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Psi Psi Omega Chapter. With a strong commitment to service and community improvement, she is a poet, mother of four, and advocates the philosophy of “Service Above Self.” I often hear people say, “I’m just a parent.” Being a parent is powerful. Take advantage of the resources available to you at your student’s school, online, and in your local community. Resources Across School Levels: • Classroom teacher - Attend all parent-teacher conferences and request others if needed. • Reading/Math/Gifted and Talented Specialist or Lead Teacher - You can set up your own appointment with these professionals. • Principal - A resource that is an ally and the decision maker for your student’s school. Set an introductory appointment and talk about the best learning and teaching style for your student. • Counselor - A resource that can point out additional resources for which you may not be aware. • School website - It is full of information. Take the time to see what resources are listed there. • Military Liaison - Check the school division website to see who the K-12 liaison is and what resources are available for military families. • Parent- Teacher Association or Organization - Participation builds the relationship with other parents, students, staff and administration. Online Resources: • careerclustersurvey.com - A great resource, especially for middle and high school students to see what career paths are available based on their interests. • collegeboard.org - A great resource to see which colleges have what your student is interested in. • khanacademy.org - It’s free. If your student took the PSAT or SAT, then they can link their Khan Academy and College Board accounts. This will allow your student to practice the skills they need to improve for the PSAT and the SAT. • ecmc.org/studentseducators/student-resources/opportunities-guide-and-workbook - This is an excellent resource for middle and high school students. • Naviance.com - A platform used by many high schools where teachers upload letters of recommendation, and counselors share with colleges. If your student’s school does not use Naviance, then find out the name of the platform they use.

Local Community Resources: • Sylvan Learning Centers of Stafford, Fredericksburg & King George - offers a free SAT-Diagnostic test at the Stafford location as well as tutoring services. • Check the local school division website for local business partners in the area. • Germanna Community College • rappahannockunitedway.org • fredericksburgguidebook.com • fredericksburgparent.net • fredericksburgchamber.org • vablackchamberofcommerce.org • librarypoint.orgfxbgschools.us/military-family-resources/ other-commonly-used-resources As parents and guardians, we do the best we can with the knowledge we have. We are all in this together. “The most important thing that parents can teach their children is how to get along without them.” ~Frank A. Clark

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JOIN THE KITTCH CORNER

COOKING FOR A CAUSE:

HOW THE NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION ‘COOKING AUTISM, INC.’ IS MAKING A DIFFERENCE By Liz Hensel, Photos by Cooking Autism, Inc.

Stafford Living want to feature non-profit organizations making a difference in our community. To nominate a charity for our Charity Spotlight, email mhardgrove@bestversionmedia.com

14 StaffordLiving

When you walk into your kitchen and are getting ready to prep dinner, you pull out the pots and pans, prepare the vegetables, and get the spices, all things that seem ordinary, but to some, these simple tasks are extraordinary. Cooking Autism, Inc. was founded by passionate individuals who understand the unique challenges faced by those with autism and their families, their mission is to empower individuals with autism through cooking, promoting independence, social skills, and self-confidence. The heart of Cooking Autism, Inc. lies in its cooking workshops and classes specifically designed for individuals with autism. These programs not only teach essential culinary skills but also focus on communication, teamwork, and social interaction. By fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, the organization helps participants develop a sense of belonging and self-worth. There are many benefits to cooking and providing life skills, including an increase in communication, fine and gross motor skills growth, socialization with peers and adults, following verbal and written instructions, understanding, and implementing life skills such as cleaning, doing the

dishes, wiping tables, and finally, learning a new life skill that will last a lifetime. Their approach to assisting the community is unique because not only are they helping those in a public and private school setting but also centers and homeschooling. Program Format: Our grant and scholarship applications open in April each year, celebrating Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month, and close in June. Our grant committee decides in July and disperses the funds between August and September. Cooking classes are offered monthly. Implementation: The classes are implemented based on the program for each grant recipient. Students with disabilities can participate in life skills and culinary classes during school/center hours with the awarded funds. Cooking Autism, Inc. is an inspiring example of how a nonprofit organization can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those it serves. Combining a love for food with a commitment to empowering autistic individuals, they change lives one recipe at a time. Through skill development, social inclusion, and community building, Cooking Autism, Inc. is not only improving the lives of participants but also transforming the way society perceives and supports individuals with autism. This remarkable organization is a testament to the power of passion, inclusivity, and a shared love for cooking. For more information on Cooking Autism, Inc., please visit cookingautism.org, or if you have any questions or would like to get involved, email info@ cookingautism.org.

© Best Version Media WHAT'S COOKING, STAFFORD NEIGHBORS? Scan the QR code to join the Kittch Corner for exclusive articles, recipes, videos, and more, all celebrating the rich flavors of our community.

Easy Chicken

POT PIE

WWW.KITTCH.COM/STAFFORD

By Kristen Anderson

IT’S FIVE O’CLOCK SOMEWHERE By Liz Hensel

PISCO SOUR

but Make it Pink!

Crust: Combine and cut in the following ingredients with a pastry blender until crumbled. • • • •

2/3 cup butter-flavor shortening 1 3/4 cups flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 cups grated cheese

Add 7-9 tablespoons of ice water. Using your hands, knead until dough forms a ball. Divide the dough in half and place half the dough between wax paper. Roll it out, then roll out the second half using the same method. Keep the dough in the wax paper and refrigerate while you prepare the filling. Filling: 2 or 3 chicken breasts, fully cooked in a crockpot. I sprinkle chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons of chicken bouillon and some minced fresh onion, then cover with water and cook. You will want to cook the chicken ahead of

time. Add cooked chicken to the following ingredients. • 2 cans mixed vegetables, drained and rinsed • 1 cup frozen peas, rinsed • 1 can cream of potato soup • 1 can cream of chicken soup • 1/4 teaspoon rosemary • 1/4 teaspoon thyme • Add milk or cream to the mixture to make it creamy but not runny. To assemble, line the bottom and sides of a pie dish with dough, removing the wax paper. Poke holes in the bottom crust using a fork. Pour in the filling and place the second pie crust on the top. Pinch the crust together and cut vent holes in the top. Beat an egg, mix it with a little water, and brush over the top of the pie crust, sprinkling with coarse salt. Bake at 350 for 1 hour or until the crust is golden brown.

Every Peruvian reading this might gasp at the indignation that I have turned the traditional Pisco Sour pink! It was a worthy experiment and perfect to celebrate Valentine’s day with your significant other or your gal pals. Ingredients • 3 oz of your favorite Pisco • 1 oz lavender syrup • 1 oz lime juice • 1 egg white • Sprigs of lavender Instructions 1. Put your pisco, lavender syrup, lime juice, and egg white into your shaker. 2. Shake 3. Shake until you see some severe froth 4. *We use a blender in our home. However, it is completely optional and can get the results with a shaker. It will just take a little longer. 5. Let the drink settle, and then pour. 6. Garnish with a sprig of lavender. 7. Enjoy! Salud! Prost! Cheers!

Do you have some fun cocktails to add to our cocktail corner, email them to mhardgrove@bestversionmedia.com

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HIGH SCHOOL

highlights

Promoting Unity & Inclusivity at Mountain View By Tayler Tanks

Tayler Tanks is currently a junior honors student at Mountain View High School. She boasts a 4.0 GPA and is extremely active in the Stafford community. She plans to become a lawyer after high school and is excited to bring readers of Stafford Living the highlights about Mountain View.

BSU members enjoyed some dancing and fabulous food at one of the many events hosted by the organization over the school year: the BSU Cookout. Photo credit: Prince Boatang

In 2021, a young man named Reggie Annor founded the Mountain View High School Black Student Union. His goal was to establish a space in a school setting where individuals of color could assemble and express themselves. An optional organization run by students is the Black Student Union. James Garrett and Jerry Varndo developed it in the 1960s to promote development and progress via community service, education, and diversity. The Step Team is only one of the many clubs and organizations with which the BSU club collaborates. At Mountain View, the BSU is essential in helping students feel empowered and like they belong. The club joins every month to talk about various issues and challenges facing modern society. They discuss their ideas and points of view on many topics. They have several themed days for a week in February to commemorate Black History Month. The BSU’s primary focus is to provide a support network for its students. Both academic achievement and personal development depend on having a sense of community and belonging. They host several events and parties to promote the culture and encourage students to form enduring friendships. The Mountain View community has contributed to the club’s growth in both size and secrecy. Having a space where you can express yourself without restraint is crucial, and the BSU offers many students just that. “As Historian of Mountain View’s Black Student Union, I’ve witnessed and appreciated how the club encapsulates the beauty of intersectionality: within BSU, the black community and even other groups really come together to foster a community where [somebody] can cultivate meaningful discussions, fun cultural activities, and a sense of camaraderie,” Prince Boatang explained.

“For example, seeing how problems of conformity have plagued the Black male community specifically, being able to be a part of and managing a space where these types of discourse can become a topic of conversation, especially as a Ghanaian/Nigerian-American man myself, is really why I enjoy managing this club,” he continued. The club offers field trips as well to its members to develop deeper understanding and connections as well. “Our trip to the Black History Museum in DC last year is where we really saw this sentiment take place, as many in our club were able to generate conversations about their roots and experiences in a place where it was actually showcased,” Boatang said. While it first began to offer support and community for Black students, the club is inclusive and open to anyone. “Mountain View’s Black Student Union isn’t just a club for those in the black community to gather, but for all who may want to be included in conversations and activism related to issues of underrepresentation, identity, advocacy, and most notably, the celebration of Black Culture,” Boatang explained. With this being said, having that sense of belonging is very important. Being with others who understand and appreciate your culture is vital to the Mountain View community. With the help of the faculty and various students, the Black Student Union can continue to thrive and allow students to engage in fellowship. The legacy of the Black Student Union continues to resonate, reminding us of the power of unity.

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corner Rosie: A PAW-sitively Remarkable Therapy Dog PET

By Mallory Hardgrove Photos Courtesy of Rockhill Elementary Staff and C. Poock

Bringing comfort and joy to all is what Rosie does. This lovable golden retriever, and her owner, Thelma Poock, can often be seen in a local library or Stafford County school. Rosie just celebrated her eighth birthday in January, and she boasts many years filled with tail wags and bringing an abundance of joy to others with her calming presence. Her journey as a therapy dog began with Thelma seeking a companion for their older golden retriever: “The breeder will sometimes keep a female or two from a litter to show them and then use for birthing future pups,” Thelma explained. “In Rosie’s litter the breeder kept two females, Rosie and her sister, to watch their features and personalities through their first year of development. The breeder decided to keep Rosie’s sister and reached out to me to see if we’d want Rosie.” After just one play date to see how their current dog and Rosie got along, they saw Rosie was a perfect fit for their family! Rosie seamlessly integrated into their lives, becoming fast friends with her “new brother,” Thelma’s original golden retriever. Rosie’s charming personality showed her obvious warmth, but Thelma noticed something else about her, as she easily passed the Canine Good Citizen Ribbon when she attended obedience classes at a local dog training facility. “It was easy to see at that time that Rosie had the qualities that make up a good therapy dog,” said Thelma. “From there, I looked into AKC recognized national organizations to see what was needed to qualify as a certified therapy dog team.” After training and passing a variety of tests, Thelma and Rosie became certified and registered as a therapy team through Alliance of Therapy Dogs, a national non-profit organization. “Locally we have joined Blue Gray Therapy Dogs,” Thelma explained, “a volunteer organization that seeks out and offers opportunities for teams to visit.” Currently, you can find Thelma and Rosie at Rockhill Elementary through the “Paws for Reading” Program or at the Porter Library on the first Saturday of the month. “Rosie is full of love,” Thelma explained. “She has a calm personality and loves to be patted and scratched. She brings so much joy to those she visits. Her presence brings smiles to everyone’s faces! When someone is sad, or is angry and needs a break, Rosie seems to know and makes herself available for pats and scratches.”

The therapy team also visits two local nursing homes and assisted living facilities and has supported the Stress Free Zones during finals week at Mary Washington University and Germanna Community College. The Blue Gray organization also has teams aside from Thelma and Rosie that visit other places throughout the Stafford and Fredericksburg communities. Reflecting on their experiences, Thelma found it challenging to think of a singular favorite memory with Rosie, as each visit brings unique moments of joy and connection that “touches my heart,” Thelma explained. However, Thelma does take special delight in witnessing Rosie’s ability to charm certain people: “I would say one of the things that does bring me joy is when Rosie meets someone that never had contact with a dog or was not a ‘dog person’ and Rosie just has a way to charm them into loving her! She brings a sense of peace and big smiles to everyone!” Thelma said. The impact of Rosie’s therapeutic presence has inspired Thelma to encourage more teams to join Blue Gray Therapy Dogs, as the organization consistently receives numerous requests for visits. Thelma believes that the more people witness the positive effects of these canine companions, the greater the demand for their support. For those interested in learning more about therapy dogs or considering becoming a part of this heartwarming cause, Thelma recommends searching for information on Blue Gray Therapy Dogs, Alliance of Therapy Dogs, or simply Googling “therapy dogs” for more valuable insights and resources. In the meantime, Rosie, the golden therapy ambassador, will continue to spread love, joy, and comfort, one visit– and a few belly rubs– at a time.

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February2024 17

KIDS

corner

Valentine

Directions: Step 1. Paint the outside of your toilet paper roll using a paint brush and your choice of paint.

Toilet Paper Gnome

Step 2. While the toilet paper roll is drying, cut a few strands of white yarn making sure they are 2-3 inches.

By Mora Soan, Author of the Series: Adventures of Jacob the Gnome Enjoy this fun activity based on the children’s book, Jacob in Japan! Jacob is a gnome who lives in New York. He owns a beautiful garden on the rooftop of a skyscraper. He is a picky eater and he only eats ordinary bland food. One windy night, Jacob falls into a magic flower pot. He wakes up in Japan. What will he do next? Will Jacob starve himself or will he find a way to enjoy and experience Japan? With an open mind, he may discover new and delicious foods that he never knew existed.

To purchase a book, visit your local Barnes and Noble and follow Jacob’s story on Instagram @jacob_the_gnome.

Step 3. Next, take a colored sheet of construction paper and roll from the corner inwards to create a cone shape. Tape the cone shut and cut off the remaining paper. Step 4. Touch your toilet paper roll and make sure it is dry. If it is, take your paper cone and place it on one end of the toilet paper roll covering the opening. The cone will be your gnome’s hat. Step 5. At the brim of the hat, take your wooden bead and hot glue it right where the hat ends on the toilet paper roll.

Craft Materials (makes one): • • • •

1 Toilet paper roll 1 Nickel sized wooden bead White yarn Colored pompoms

• • • •

1 Sheet of colored construction paper Paint brush Paint Hot glue gun

Step 6. Under your wooden bead, take your strands of yarn and hot glue them directly under the nose. You can spread them out or clump them together depending on how you like the beard. Step 7. Decorate your hat however you like. You can add pompoms, stickers, or even just your own drawings. Step 8. Lastly, glue the hat on your gnome.

Do you have a crafting idea you would like to share? Email your art and craft idea to mhardgrove@bestversionmedia.com

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