NEIGHBORS OF Courthouse
MEET THE KAMPANS: WHERE THERE IS LOVE THERE IS FAMILY
Cover Photo by Karen Presecan Photography
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PUBLICATION TEAM
Publisher: Dori Stewart
Content Coordinator: Liz Hensel
Designer: Laura Anderson
Photographer: Karen Presecan
ADVERTISING
Contact: Dori Stewart
Email: doristewart@bestversionmedia.com
Phone: (540)288-7928
FEEDBACK/IDEAS/SUBMISSIONS
Dear Friends & Neighbors,
June brings us graduations, Father’s Day, and the best weather of the year! Congratulations to all Class of 2023 graduates and Happy Father’s Day to all the neighborhood dads!
June’s longer days are our sign that the summer of 2023 is here. Be sure to check out the Calendar of Events for family-friendly things to do in the area. With this June issue of Neighbors of Courthouse, we introduce you to your neighbors, the Kampans. Heather and Dan Kampans both attended North Stafford High School and are now raising their family in Embrey Mill. Dan works for the Department of the Army, and Heather is an artist and photographer, and owner of Beloved Photography.
This month we are shining a spotlight on a Stafford County Hero, Sgt. Elizabeth Joyce Adams. Not only is she a firefighter, EMT, and Marine, but she is a wife and mom to three boys. Read about her journey and how she is starting nursing school this summer and hopes to work in a hospital’s emergency room department once her husband retires.
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: lizhensel@bestversionmedia.com.
HOA SUBMISSION INFORMATION
Are you on the association board for your subdivision? Contact us for information on how you can submit articles, updates, reminders, events and more to the residents. We create customized homeowners’ association sections at no cost to the HOA or the residents.
Content Due
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We have informative articles for you in this issue including tips from our expert hardscaping company, Keyes Landscaping, 6 Ways to Make Your Backyard a Statement This Summer, as well as expert tips from our skincare expert on anti-aging, Aubry Blais, owner of Thistle Medical Skincare Studio.
Thinking about traveling this summer? Check out our community submission from Sam De Jager, a local travel advisor, on how travel can enhance your life. Another community submission this month comes from Shunaka White, Embrey Mill resident, and Occupational Therapist. Shunaka shares with us tips on “taking proactive steps to modify your home so that it welcomes you and supports you”.
Also, in this issue, we learn more about a few of our sponsors and community partners. Business Profiles include Club Pilates, Wine and Design of Fredericksburg, and Rappahannock Orthodontics.
Leashes of Valor is our Charity Spotlight for June. Leashes of Valor is a 501c3 nonprofit organization founded by Marine Corps Captain Jason Hagg. Read about their mission, to provide quality service dogs to veterans, and how you can help.
We are always looking for more Stafford families, individuals, and organizations to feature in our magazine. If you’d like to nominate someone, please email us at LizHensel@BestVersionMedia.com.
A HUGE shout out to all our AMAZING sponsors, please stop by and thank them for Neighbors of Courthouse! Until next month!
Dori Stewart
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EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS
PILATES
Suzy Thompson | Club Pilates 540-783-1940 clubpilates.com/stafford
REAL ESTATE
Fernanda Ibarra, eXp Realty | For the Virginia Home 540-429-7447 forthevirginiahome.com
FINANCIAL ADVISOR
Nicole Levermann & Sarah Kloefkorn | First Command 540-659-7060 advisor.firstcommand.com/us/va/stafford
ROOFING
Micah Cunningham | JMS Construction 571-732-6451 jmsconstructionservices.com
HEATING AND AIR
Steven Kasper & Brad Edmonds | Kasper Mechanical 540-300-7917 kaspermechanical.com
HARDSCAPING
Travis Keyes | Keyes Landscaping 540-424-7330 keyeslandscapingva.com
LANDSCAPING
Mason Lewis | Lewis Enterprises 540-903-8978 lewisenterprisesva.com
HARDWOOD FLOORING
Enos and Amy Pacheco | Pacheco’s Hardwood Floor 571-383-5946 | 571-575-1570 Spanish pachecoshardwoodfloor.com
ORTHODONTICS
Matthew H. Caspersen, D.D.S., M.S. | Rappahannock Orthodontics 540-371-2611 drcaspersen.com
CARPET CLEANING
Kameron Gray | The Karpet Kings 540-848-5975 bit.ly/karpetkings
SKINCARE
Aubry Blais | Thistle Medical Skincare Studio 540-783-8209 thistleskincarestudio.com
TREE SERVICE
Billy Kelley | Tree Times 540-720-8733 treetimesinc.com
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6 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR BACKYARD A STATEMENT THIS SUMMER
As the summer months approach, so does every homeowner’s desire to create a beautiful and engaging backyard space to enjoy all season long. Fortunately, there are several ways to elevate your backyard, whether for entertaining guests, relaxing, or a peaceful place to sip your morning coffee.
Here, we’ll explore six ways to make your backyard a statement this summer: pools, patios, decks and screened porches, fire pits, sitting walls, and lighting. With these tips, you can curate the outdoor sanctuary of your dreams.
2. Patios, Decks, and Screened Porches: Patios, decks, and screened porches are great for hosting get-togethers or just enjoying a quiet evening outdoors. Creating an outdoor living space will allow you to extend your home’s living area and create a cozy atmosphere. Add some outdoor furniture and decor to liven up the backyard space and make it more inviting - you’ll never want to go back inside!
1. Pools: If you already have a pool, making some enhancements to it can really transform your backyard space. Things like slides, fountains, grottos, and illuminated walls add some extra fun and refinement to your swimming pool. Even improving the surrounding area with landscaping can make all the difference. When doing so, consider adding potted plants and pool decor to add a touch of flair.
3. Fire Pits: No backyard space is complete without a beautiful yet functional fire pit. This backyard staple adds warmth and ambiance to any outdoor space, making it perfect for chilly summer nights. Gather around the pit for a bonfire or use it to roast marshmallows with the kids.
4. Sitting Walls: A sitting wall is both practical and beautiful. It provides guests with extra seating while adding a stylish element to your backyard. No longer will hosts have to worry about finding enough chairs for everyone - the sitting wall can accommodate several people at once while adding an element of design to your space.
5. Lighting: Good lighting can transform your backyard and only takes minimal effort. Adding string lights, lanterns, or even built-in lighting are very popular choices these days and will help make your backyard the perfect spot for entertaining after dark. Outdoor lighting also helps to highlight your landscaping and add security to your property, which is an excellent bonus.
6. Landscaping: Landscaping is a standout feature of any great backyard. Think of ways you can create a lush feel with plants, shrubs, and trees that fit the climate in your area. Also, consider incorporating different colors and plants to create more visual interest. Moreover, many homeowners like to incorporate hardscaping elements like fountains or stone for an extra ambiance. Whatever your preference, adding a touch of nature will help to create a refined yet inviting space.
The summer is an optimal time to upgrade your backyard, and with these tips, homeowners can craft an outdoor space that is both beautiful and functional. Whether for entertaining guests or relaxing with family, there are numerous ways to elevate your outdoor space and create a relaxing oasis for your summer days.
Let Keyes Landscaping help you elevate your backyard! We are your expert hardscaping service in Stafford. We strive to provide our clients with superior service and results that exceed their expectations.
We offer financing! 0% for 24 months for patios, decks, and screen porches.
Contact us today for a free consultation! (540)424-7330 | keyeslandscapingva.com
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MEET THE KAMPANS: WHERE THERE IS LOVE THERE IS FAMILY
By Liz Hensel
Photos by Karen Presecan Photography and the Kampans Family
Heather and Dan Kampans both attended North Stafford High School, yet their paths wouldn’t cross until 18 years later. Both were rebuilding their lives post-divorce when Dan reached out to Heather online. Being coy, Dan has asked Heather a question he clearly knew the answer to. However, it didn’t click for Heather until two weeks later, that he wanted to continue their conversation.
Still healing from a divorce, Heather chose the least romantic setting for their first date. She had zero thoughts of re-marrying at this point. Life had other plans.
That first date turned out to be a continuous first date, as they have not stopped dating and are happily married. They knew what they had was something special. Within 3 days of their first date, they had met each other’s family and started planning their life together. Their new beginnings are what led them to the Embrey Mill neighborhood. It was the perfect location for their family for its accessibility to all their children’s activities. Dan works for the Department of the Army, and Heather is an artist and a photographer and owner of Beloved Photography. Their new home provided them with easy access to the freeway, and it’s also close to both of their families, who they are very close to.
“My parents’ home is just as much our home as the one we live in. We feel very closely connected with each of them and are so thankful for the love and support we are able to offer each other.” -Heather Kampans
Their oldest Katelyn (18) is the captain of Color Guard at Brooke Point High School and a soon to be graduate of the Class of 2023. Post high school, she plans to major in business administration and in the meantime open an Etsy shop to sell her art.
Brayden (16) is a sophomore and on the varsity lacrosse team at Colonial Forge High School. His favorite activities are surfing and snowboarding. Jameson (5) plays quick ball with Stafford Baseball. This is his first year playing and he loves it. He wants to play all the sports he can. He loves meeting his friends at the playground and going to Sweet Frog after.
Heather has met many of her neighbors through her photography business. She truly connects with her clients and loves listening to their stories. She loves finding out about their businesses and what led them to Stafford. Her favorite part of her work is creating customized Christmas sessions. She usually starts
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working on new props in July. Her husband is wonderfully supportive and helps with all the heavy things.
“I think that’s what I like about this magazine as well. It’s great to see people on a deeper level than just a passing face in a busy world. We all have stories of how we met, fell in love and created beautiful families and careers. It’s a joy to take a deep breath, relax and connect with other people in our community.” -Heather Kampans
They live in such an eclectic neighborhood filled with bakers, car detailers, electricians, carpenters, chefs, and many more. Heather and Dan love supporting them all. It’s as if they formed their own close-knit group of resources just in their neighborhood.
Aside from taking their kids to their sporting events and trips to Sweet Frog, Heather is also very involved in her church. Her favorite activity to attend is Bible Study which she attends daily.
Dan and Heather love to travel. They love the mountains, log cabins, and rivers. Dan loves the beach, so they usually plan their vacations around beaches and mountains. They are adventurers and usually go explore especially the places that take them off the beaten path. They never miss a chance to try the local delicacies either.
As the summer comes closer, they plan an annual beach vacation with Dans family. The entire family in one big vacation home. They share family dinners, games, swimming, grilling, and simply enjoying each other’s company. It’s a much-needed break from their hard work.
The Kampans are truly the definition of where there is love, there is family.
WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK JEN VAN BUREN REAL ESTATE FOR
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YOUR FUTURE SMILE Is in Good Hands
If you are considering starting your journey towards a healthy, beautiful smile you may want to pay a visit to the friendly team at Rappahannock Orthodontics in Stafford. The moment you walk through the door you will know your future smile is in good hands. Dr. Caspersen and his team can deliver customized care to address each patient’s unique orthodontic needs.
Rappahannock Orthodontics uses the latest in orthodontic technology to provide the highest quality service to their patients. They have mastered a wide variety of orthodontic methods such as clear aligners, metal braces and expanders to treat adolescent and adult patients.
Dr. Matthew H. Caspersen is a board-certified orthodontist that makes you feel relaxed and comfortable throughout your treatment. He is very proud to have lived and worked in Stafford and Fredericksburg for the past 19 years. He received his undergraduate degree at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota, Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the Medical College of Virginia and his Master’s in Orthodontics at the University of Iowa after serving in the Marine Corps..
He is a member of the Southern Association of Orthodontics, the Virginia Dental Association and the
Rappahannock Valley Dental Society. In his spare time, he volunteers at the Moss Free Clinic.
When he is not working with patients, he loves spending time traveling, skiing, camping and hiking with his wife Stephanie and his two daughters.
Dr. Caspersen would not be able to deliver the highest quality of care without his amazing staff. He is so lucky to have bright, energetic, friendly people to work with every day.
Everyone at Rappahannock Orthodontics aims to provide personalized orthodontic care to patients of all ages. Treatments can sometimes take up to two years to perfect and Dr. Caspersen truly prioritizes his relationships with each patient. He is always just as excited to see their results as they are.
The team at Rappahannock Orthodontics is always keeping up with the latest orthodontic technology. You will notice cutting edge equipment when you visit such as 3D printers and digital scanners.
If you are looking for a friendly, energetic orthodontic team to help you achieve your best smile please consider Rappahannock Orthodontics. We think that you will be so happy that you did.
SCHOOL IS OUT BRACES ARE IN!
Summer vibes start with a confident smile! To schedule a complimentary exam, call 540-684-5115 or scan QR code below.
Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent's ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.
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The Benefits of Travel: How Travel Can Enhance Your Life
Travel, sojourn, expedition, trek, excursion, odyssey - just some of the many words for travel. Do you love to travel or does the thought of travel stress you out? (We can talk about that another time…) What are the benefits of travel? There are some obvious benefits while others may be less apparent. Travel is one of the best ways to relax & unwind, whether it’s a long weekend just hours from home or an exotic expedition on another continent. We lead such stressful lives and travel is a great way to reduce stress and improve our health, allowing us to live in the moment and appreciate life.
There are so many beautiful and interesting places to see - stunning natural wonders like the Grand Canyon or amazing man-made wonders like the Pyramids of Egypt. There is just so much to see and do in the world!
When you travel you experience different cultures which widens your world view and changes your perceptions. This education about people, their customs and the different places that they live is another important travel benefit. For me sampling local delicacies is a highlight of my journeys. I haven’t always liked the things I’ve tried but it’s all part of the
Creating great memories with family and friends is another benefit of travel. It is said that it’s not the destination but the journey that counts. Whether it’s the locals or a group of like-minded travelers, the memories you make through your interactions with others is one of the joys of travel. They say there’s no place like home but you may never appreciate what you have until you leave it behind and then return.
There are so many ways to travel - ocean or river cruising, all-inclusives, rail journeys, escorted tours or fully independent travel, treks, safaris and more.
If you are interested in travel and would like to know more I have a wealth of travel knowledge. I have lived in 5 countries, traveled to 41 states and visited 32 countries and am always adding more! I am a member of the American Society of Travel Agents and a travel advisor with Cruise Planners, a full service travel agency as an associate of Lina Dicola. Feel free to email me for travel advice and information at sam.dejager@ cruiseplanners.com. You are also welcome to join my Facebook group Fredericksburg and Surrounding Area Travel Partners.
“Travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer.” (Author unknown).
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JUNE IS FOR VODKA RECIPES
Brittany Jacques is the pen name used of this husband-and-wife team who came together to compile some of the best vodka cocktails. Originally from Florida, they put these recipes to use once they realized what “95 Traffic” meant. With school out, friends are coming into town to celebrate the holidays, and the grill ready! Here are some recipes to include in your next get-together!
The Classic VODKA MARTINI, STIRRED
High quality vodka for this recipe is crucial. For the best results, chill your glass before mixing the martini.
Ingredients
• 2 ½ ounces vodka
• ½ ounce dry vermouth
• Ice
• Lemon peel twists or olives (stuffed or regular) for garnish
Instructions
1. Add vodka and dry vermouth to a mixing glass.
2. Add ice and stir until liquid is chilled.
3. Strain into a cocktail glass.
4. Garnish with your choice of olive or lemon twists.
Magnificent PUNCH RECIPE
The Magnificent Punch is sure to please the taste buds at any gathering.
Ingredients
• 1 quart vodka
• 1 quart light sherry (not too dry)
• ½ cup maraschino juice
• 1 cup curacao
• 4 quarts or 5 fifths champagne, chilled
• 2 quarts club soda, chilled
• (2 28-ounce bottles plus 1 cup)
Instructions
Combine the first four ingredients and pour into a punch bowl. At serving time, carefully pour in the champagne and soda.
Yield: 44 6-ounce servings
Note: Punch is extremely smooth but very potent.
We source out the best quality ingredients to serve fresh daily. Zibibbo73 Ristorante brings a taste of the old world cuisine in a modern setting to our area. With fresh simple recipes, fresh herbs and vegetables, naturally raised meats and fish. The finest cheeses and pasta on the market. Topping it all off with friendly top-notch service.
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Michelle is a franchise owner who has been the owner of Wine & Design of Fredericksburg for the past 9 years.
It was a bittersweet serendipitous moment that led her to open her own franchise. The closest Wine & Design to her at the time was in Richmond. Her friends were all going, and she was supposed to go too, except that the theme was Paint Your Pet. Michelle had just rehomed her dog, and it was just too sad to attend.
Soon after that, a family friend opened a Wine & Design in Charlottesville. This really piqued Michelle’s interest. A Wine & Design in Fredericksburg seemed like a great idea. With no artistic background, Michelle went for it. She opened up her own franchise and now it has become a staple for fun events in Fredericksburg.
What she loves about Wine & Design is that anyone can paint! You don’t have to be an artist because you are guided through every step.
Wine & Design offers 6 divisions
1. On Wheels Studio: Their mobile art studio can accommodate up to 100 people.
2. Private parties: requires a minimum of 10 people.
3. Art Buzz Kids: a program tailored to spark every child’s creativity.
4. Paint It Forward: a fun way to raise money and bring awareness to any cause.
5. Team Building: combining working together to provide an inspiring space for co-workers.
6. D.I.Y.: Any art form that is not on canvas, like home décor, hand knitting, etc.
As a small woman-owned business there are always going to be challenges. Michelle says that she has an incredible team at Wine & Design and that she can always ask for help and receive the support she needs. In return, she is always finding ways to celebrate her team.
Wine & Design loves to celebrate date nights, mom’s night out, retirement parties, and any celebration you can think of. Michelle’s favorite part of work is the team-building events. She has a passion and love for self-development coaching. In the future, she hopes to bring self-development and Wine & Design together for specialized workshops
When not painting you can find Michelle on a trail or taking an early morning walk at the city dock, right down the street from her studio.
To take a class or book your next event visit their website at wineanddesign.com/ fredericksburg-va.
© Best Version Media
Does Your Home Welcome You?
As our neighborhoods steadily grow with new construction, the median age of houses in our county is 23 years old. Homes purchased when our families were younger, activity levels higher, health at its peak, change as we change. Change as we age. The friendly communities and multi-level homes that welcomed us on moving day may not serve us as life happens and our needs, abilities evolve.
Maybe the kids are now adults and have moved out to start their own lives. Maybe you have welcomed your aging parents, in-laws or grandparents to move in with you so that you assist with care or have a child(adolescent or adult) with developmental, sensory or mobility impairments with long-term needs, you or your spouse have chronic health conditions, loved ones that use wheelchair, walkers, canes or crutches that you would like to visit your home more often? So many scenarios to consider... does your home welcome you as well as your loved ones and visitors.
Taking quarterly inventory of your home and taking proactive steps to modify your home so that it welcomes you and supports you is great way to safely thrive in your home. Pay attention to your mobility, endurance, lighting, areas of your home you don’t use often and reasons why.
A few things to consider when assessing your home’s “welcomeness”:
• Overall safety (can you safely access your bathroom, kitchen, bedroom, at least 2 exits of your home)
• Unsecured rugs or slippery flooring
• Inadequate lighting
• Steps to enter/exit home--is there railing, nonskid steps, covered in case of rail, snow
• Doorways--are they wide enough to easily pass through, not scraping skin *Minimum average width is 32 inches for doorways for standard size wheelchair and walker users
• Stairs in home with railing on both sides
• Home security cameras/equipment
• Amount of ease to open/close doors--lever style handles are easier for most
• Clutter--remove anything blocking walkways, stairs, steps. Remove and relocate excess furniture
• Smart home features--voice-activated tech-Alexa; can be integrated for lights, door locks, garage, thermostat, and more
• Adequate seating options throughout home and on porch and patio(sturdy arm chairs work well)
• At least one entrance that has no stairs to access home
• Main floor bathroom
• Consider upcoming surgery or life events that may change you or your loved ones independence/abilities--amputation, dementia, low vision, Parkinson’s, etc.
Visitability is a design approach that anyone who uses a wheelchair or other mobility device should be able to visit. Learn more: https://visitability.org/ It’s YOUR home, may it welcome and serve you well. Shunaka White, Embrey Mill resident. Occupational therapist. Home/Community Accessibility Safety Specialist. For Safety’s Sake LLC www.forsafetyot. com info@forsafetyot.com 202-696-0634 Aging in Place, Universal Design, Dementia Caregiver Consulting, Group Home & Accessible Vacation Rental (Airbnb) Consulting
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BY AUBRY BLAIS, BSN, RN, CANS, AND OWNER, THISTLE MEDICAL SKINCARE STUDIO
Anti-Aging Tips FROM YOUR BEAUTY BEST FRIENDS
Thistle Medical Skincare Studio: The home of your beauty best friends.
Thistle Medical Skincare Studio is a boutique medical spa located in Stafford, Virginia and is the home of your skin experts in medical facial aesthetics and skincare. Our team of aesthetic professionals strive to be your “beauty best friends” where we believe in a no-pressure approach to skin care that’s attainable for everyone!
The key behind anti-aging: collagen stimulation
Collagen is the fountain-of-youth protein that maintains our youthful skin, gives us our glow, and keeps everything nice and tight! As we age, we lose 1% of collagen every year which may present itself as lost volume across all areas of the face, skin laxity, and fine lines/wrinkles. The goal behind many anti-aging skincare and aesthetic treatments is collagen stimulation. If you’re looking to stimulate collagen, think about ingredients that increase cell turnover, like retinol and chemical peels or through micro-injury to the skin such as microneedling. Sadly, gravity is not our friend when it comes to aging, but by staying proactive, utilizing multiple modalities, and a consistent at-home skincare routine, we can help your youthful glow back while boosting confidence!
Staying proactive
Do you notice lines/wrinkles when you’re not making facial movementseven at rest? Do you notice your makeup not sitting on your skin like it used to (creasing in the fine lines)? Where are you noticing signs of aging on your parents? (Your aging process may be hereditary!) All can be determining factors of when you can think about starting your aesthetic journey. Treating earlier, rather than later, gives us the opportunity to address multiple skincare concerns before they become present. The earlier age you start and with regular and continued treatment, you may need less adjustments thus slowing down the aging process and saving you money in the long run.
There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach
We’re strong believers that utilizing multiple modalities to simultaneously target multiple layers of the skin, fat, and muscle, reap far greater and more natural results than isolating one area and/or using only one modality. We think of aesthetics as an art and a science! Different modalities target different concerns: neuromodulators such as Botox/Dysport prevent lines from forming, dermal fillers add/restore volume in certain areas and create balance amongst facial features, microneedling helps target skin laxity, texture, scarring, and fine lines/wrinkles, chemical peels/IPL photofacials address hyperpigmentation, skin brightening and overall skin rejuvenation. Keep in mind that there is not a one size fits all approach in aesthetics!
The importance of at-home maintenance
Receiving aesthetic treatments are great steps to take to prevent the aging process however, if you’re not preserving the results of your treatments with an at home skincare routine it’s like taking a step back in the antiaging process! (Think about it like this: you can’t expect to have a beautiful smile by going to your dentist appointment twice a year but not brushing your teeth everyday.) The combination of preventative treatments with regular use of sunscreen, Vitamin C and early retinol use for improved antiaging effects.
Our team of aesthetic nurses preach slight enhancements over time- even Rome wasn’t built in a day! Advancements in technology, knowledge, experience in the field, and access to social media have shown that the best aesthetic changes are the ones that are subtle and hard to put a finger on. Our team of aesthetic professionals are here to be your skincare and aesthetic guides while also being the number one supporter of your selflove, growth, and confidence journey.
For more skincare tips, visit thistleskincarestudio.com.
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Leashes
of Valor is a 501c3 nonprofit organization founded by Marine Corps Captain Jason Hagg.
Jason served for 13 years in the Marine Corps before being medically retired, after being injured in Afghanistan. This was not his first injury. He had been injured before and in true Marine fashion, he kept going until in his words, “I zigged instead of zagged.”
Post Marine Corps Jason struggled with his post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injuries. After trying different modalities to get his symptoms under control, it was being matched with his service dog Axel, that changed his life.
The facility is in Fredericksburg, Virginia called Axels Place, a fitting tribute to the dog that saved Jason’s life. Their number one mission is to provide quality service dog to veterans.
They have a rigorous training process for their dogs. They like to rescue dogs as much as they can, the dogs then stay in training for at least 18 months before being matched with a veteran.
Once the training is complete (Jason says, training is continuous), the matched veteran gets invited for a 7 day stay at Axels Place. Included in their stay is an in-home chef. They then go through training together. They cover everyday chores and whatever tailored specific need for that veteran. They get taught all the commands for the dogs to maintain their training.
Their principal trainers are retired FEMA search dog trainers and handlers. They were part of the rubble search of Oklahoma City and the attacks on September the 11th.
This incredible standard of excellence makes them a trailblazer for service dog training. They are the first of their kind to host veterans in a home to provide hands on training with their dog.
In addition to their service dog program, they have a golfing program that provides outdoor recreation free of charge to wounded and disabled veterans called the Valor Cup. This program allows veterans to reconnect with other veterans in an outdoor setting.
The community really came together to get Axels Place going. For example, Powell’s Furniture donated bedroom furniture to furnish the bedrooms where the veterans will be staying. They are always in need of volunteers. The property sits on 10 acres of land. They need assistance with mowing, painting, and my favorite one, playing with puppies.
Jason travels around the country with service dogs in tow to promote the organization and their programs. Sitting with Jason, you can truly tell his passion for service is continuous. He may not be in uniform anymore, but he continues to serve his fellow veterans in a different capacity.
Sadly, Axel passed away in January of 2023, but he left a strong legacy behind. To find out more about Leashes of Valor and how you can support them, please visit leashesofvalor.org
Once the veteran leaves with the dog to start their new lives, the mission is not over. Leashes of Valor provides lifetime care for their dogs. They have continuous follow-up communications with the veterans, so they never feel like they are fighting any battle alone.
NICOLE LEVERMANN Financial
540.659.7060 NLevermann1@firstcommand.com
Neighbors of Courthouse wants to feature non-profit organizations making a difference in our community. To nominate a charity for our Charity Spotlight email lizhensel@ bestversionmedia.com
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PAWS for Reading: At Porter Library
Do you want to practice your reading skills? Do you need some undivided attention? Look no further than your local library and their PAWS for reading program. Porter library invites these sweet therapy dogs the first Saturday of the month for you to hone those skills. This program is available for grades K-5. You can visit the branch or call to book your time.
Today we are featuring Bristol.
Bristol is a Labrador and coonhound mix adopted from a shelter in February of 2018 by Sabrina Hundley. They have been a therapy dog team since 2019.
They have visited nursing, rehabilitation, and senior centers, schools, and of course Porter Library. Bristol has a very calm personality and seems like an old soul. During a recent check up, the vet giggled while listening to Bristol’s heart - they seldom get such a low heart rate during an exam. Bristol is so relaxed, she will take a nap just about anywhere, even in the middle of store aisles, flat out,
while shopping with Sabrina. She has perfected the art of loud snoring at home and in public places. Bristol lives on a farm, so Bristol helps oversee the feeding of the pet cows and horses. She also keeps the three house cats in line, which offers a bonus of cleaning up their forbidden leftover cat food.
Bristol loves going on walks and car rides. She is officially licensed as a backseat driver, yet has never complained about Sabrina’s driving once. Fredericksburg’s Old Mill bike path along the river is her favorite place for a weekend stroll. Getting ice cream during these excursions is expected.
Bristol’s impeccable manners and love for meeting new friends, especially children, makes her an ideal travel companion and book-reading partner. It seems Bristol’s most favorite books are about cats.
Neighbors of Courthouse would love to feature your pet in our Pet Corner! Please email your pets story and photos to lizhensel@bestversionmedia.com
THE PET CORNER IS PROUDLY SPONSORED BY GERRI REID MOBILE VET SERVICES
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A Club for EveryBODY
Stafford Marketplace will be the new home for Club Pilates Stafford. Pilates is a form of strength training but doesn’t use traditional strength training exercises. The workout emphasizes improving muscle tone rather than building muscles, producing greater stability and endurance. Rather than bulking you up, Pilates is designed to cultivate a longer, leaner look. It leads to greater flexibility, functional movement, and may even reduce your likelihood of injury.
Suzy Thompson and her husband Mitchell are the owners of the new club. Suzy will hold the title of both owner and lead instructor. Since she has over 30 years of experience in the fitness industry, 17 of those specifically on Pilates, the members at Club Pilates are in great hands.
Prior to the pandemic, Suzy was an instructor at a classical Pilates studio in Fairfax. Finding work at Club Pilates after the lockdown showed her the potential of what can be done with an innovative take on a traditional Pilates studio. Club Pilates differs by making lessons more accessible and affordable than traditional studios. They have 12 reformers, while most traditional studios offer 5-6 reformers. They will also offer 50-60 classes from early mornings to late evenings, making a perfect fit for any schedule.
The reformer looks a little intimidating, but the instructors educate you on how to use it as a supportive piece of equipment for your workout. Typical mat exercises like planks and bridges become class favorites when applied on the reformer due to how well they activate your core and build strong, stable muscles. Pilates is hard to mass produce, which is why having a knowledgeable and trained instructor
to guide you through the workouts will give you the best outcome for your fitness goals.
Upon completing a class at Club Pilates Suzy wants you to leave feeling like you worked out your whole body without exhausting any one muscle group. Members leave with better overall posture, mobility, balance, energy and maybe even relief from lower back pain and achy joints.
When joining Club Pilates, you become part of a community. This includes being part of special events, promotions, workshops and outings like wine tasting.
Club Pilates classes are never boring; with 7 different types of Pilates classes and 4 different levels, and instructors coming from different schools of Pilates, you will never have the same class twice. In addition to group classes, they also offer private 1:1 lessons.
Here are 4 Pilates terms to help you get ready for your first class:
Breath: Pilates emphasizes deep functional ribcage breathing which prepares the body to move well.
The Scoop: The deep recruitment of the transverse abdominus muscle between the naval and pubic bones also known as the “secret of flat abs.”
Power House: A fancy term for your core - a combination of abs, glutes, and inner thighs.
Healthy Spine: We move the spine in all directions, and Pilates allows the vertebrae a chance to decompress, helping relieve lower back pain.
For the latest information of membership and schedule please visit their website www.clubpilates.com/location/stafford
PHOTOS BY SUZY THOMPSON
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As the saying goes, Spring Showers Bring May Flowers, and we are in full bloom this spring! Do you know what that means! Beautiful butterflies all around in the month of June. Here is a fun activity to have your own personal butterfly in your home.
STAINED GLASS BUTTERFLY
CRAFT MATERIALS:
Elmer’s Craft Bond Tacky Glue
Gold Metallic Sharpie
1 sheet of black card stock
1 sheet of wax or parchment paper
Paint brush
Small cup
Water
Colorful tissue paper cut into small rectangles
DIRECTIONS:
Step 1. To create your butterfly pattern for tracing, take your construction paper and fold it in half. Draw one half of your butterfly.
Step 2. Cut the butterfly out and unfold your paper to reveal the pattern.
Step 3. Trace your butterfly pattern onto your black card stock.
Step 4. Cut out your butterfly. If you are making multiple butterflies, you can pile up the paper and cut them all at once.
Step 5. Draw the inside of your butterfly. This will show you where to cut to create the holes in the butterfly where you stain glass will go.
Step 6. Cut your sheet of wax or parchment paper. Make sure it is large enough to fit your butterfly. This will be the inside “glass” of the butterfly.
Step 7. Using your pattern once again, trace your butterfly onto the wax or parchment paper.
Step 8. Cut out your butterfly from the paper. Again, if you are making multiple butterflies, you can pile up the paper and cut them all at once.
Step 9. In a small cup, mix about a teaspoon of Elmer’s CraftBond Tacky Glue with about a 1/4 teaspoon of water.
Step 10. With a small paint brush, apply a bit of glue to your waxed or parchment paper. Attach a tissue paper rectangle to each spot of glue. Cover the entire butterfly. You can overlap some pieces too, this will create fun blended colors when the sun shines through your butterfly. Use a little bit more of your glue mixture to wet the edges of each piece so that each piece lays down flat. Don’t worry about the appearance of glue here, it will dry later.
Once all of the glue mixture has dried, glue the black butterfly outline on top of your butterfly.
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HERO SPOTLIGHT: SGT ELIZABETH JOYCE ADAMS
Firefighter/EMT, Marine, and Future Nurse
Please meet Sgt. Elizabeth Joyce Adams
Elizabeth is a Marine Corps veteran who has been married to her husband Tim for the past 11 years. Tim is an active-duty Marine stationed in Marine Corps Base Quantico. They have 3 boys, Ryan (10), Tyler (7), and Dylan (2).
Elizabeth is originally from Orange County, California. She wanted to join the Marine Corps immediately after high school, however, her parents suggested she go to college first. She went to college and earned a firefighting degree and became a firefighter and EMT in Mississippi for 3 years.
Then she was ready to follow her dreams of joining the Marine Corps. She wanted to pursue the crash fire rescue job, however, the Marine Corps had other plans and she was assigned the aviation ordnance military occupational specialty.
She was stationed in Miramar, California where she met her husband during a unit deployment to Japan. Towards the end of her four-year
enlistment, she was expecting her first child and her husband received orders to Okinawa, Japan.
There they were able to take family adventures to Australia, Mainland Japan, and Taiwan. Elizabeth’s favorite part of living overseas is experiencing the family-friendly culture.
Elizabeth and her family now live in Embrey Mill. Her favorite thing to do is visit the different parks around the neighborhood. There is a park to accommodate all the little ones. There is a park full of swings, a park to ride your bike, and even a park where you can build things with foam blocks. Conveniently the pool is right down the street to cool off on those warm summer days. In addition, she is also a youth soccer coach for Stafford Soccer.
Sgt Elizabeth Adams will be starting nursing school this summer. Once her husband retires, she plans on working in a hospital’s emergency room department.
We would love to feature our neighborhood heroes. If you know a service member, veteran, nurse, teacher or first responder please email lizhensel@bestversionmedia.com
June-July
© Best Version Media
SAT., JULY 1
PAWS FOR READING
Porter Branch Library
2001 Parkway Boulevard Stafford, VA 22554
Grades K-5
Practice your reading with therapy dogs trained to be avid listeners.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
SAT., JUNE 17
FREDERICKSBURG INDEPENDENT BOOK FESTIVAL
@Rivefront Park
713 Sophia Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Bring your family and friends to the sixth Fredericksburg Independent Book Festival with over 100 authors of varying genres from children’s book and YA to mystery, sci-fi, romance and more.
Time: 10-4pm fredbookfest.com
SUN., JUNE 25
WOODLAND HIKE
@Gari Melchers Home And Studio At Belmont
224 Washington St. Falmouth, VA 22405
Conducted by Virginia Master Naturalists, these hikes explore the site’s beautiful woodland trails. Terrain is varied and can be wet; sturdy footwear is recommended. Dogs not permitted.
Time: 2-3:30pm Garimelchers.org
WED., JUNE 28
TRIVIA WITH TRAPPER
@6 Bears & A Goat Brewing Company
Drink, think, and be merry for Trivia with Trapper from B101.5!
Time: 7-9pm 6bgbrewingco.com
JUNE 28-30
FREDNATS GAME
@FredNats Stadium
42 Jackie Robinson Way Fredericksburg, VA 22401 milb.com/fredericksburg
FRI., JUNE 30
FRIDAY NIGHT MUSIC
@Potomac Point Vineyard & Winery
275 Decatur Rd. Stafford, VA 22554
Time: 6-9pm Potomacpointwinery.com
Call or visit your branch to book your time. librarypoint.bibliocommons.com/events
SAT. JULY 1
KIDS “SMILES ALOT”
@Wine and Design, Fredericksburg
Perfect for the whole family
Time: 11am
Cost: $29 per ticket
wineanddesign.com/Fredericksburg-va
JULY 1-3
FREDNATS GAME
@FredNats Stadium
42 Jackie Robinson Way Fredericksburg, VA 22401 milb.com/fredericksburg
SAT., JULY 6
TIME WITH A THERAPY DOG
@Porter Branch Library
2001 Parkway Boulevard Stafford, VA 22554
Grades 6-12
Read or relax with a therapy dog. Call or visit your branch to book your time. librarypoint.bibliocommons.com/events
SAT. JULY 8
KIDS “YOU CHOOSE: PIRATE SHIP OR MERMAID”
@Wine and Design, Fredericksburg
Perfect for the whole family
Time: 11am
Cost: $29 per ticket
wineanddesign.com/Fredericksburg-va
TUES., JULY 11
STAFFORD COUNTY NETWORKING
@Adventure Brewing
33 Perchwood Dr #101, F’burg
Powered by Rockstar Connect Register: bit.ly/staffordnetworking
Time: 6pm
WED., JULY 12
STUDIO GHIBLI FEST
@Porter Branch Library
2001 Parkway Boulevard Stafford, VA 22554
Celebrate your love for Studio Ghibli! Discover new movies and series, make a craft, and share your favorite film. Feel free to dress up as your favorite Studio Ghibli character. All ages. Time: 2-4pm librarypoint.bibliocommons.com/events
JULY 14-16
FREDNATS GAME
@FredNats Stadium
42 Jackie Robinson Way Fredericksburg, VA 22401 milb.com/fredericksburg
WED., JULY 19- SUN., SEPT 10
42ND STREET
@Riverside Center for the Arts
42nd Street Celebrated Broadway, Times Square and the magic of show biz with wit, humor and pizzazz. Riversidedt.com
SAT. JULY 22
DISNEY SKATE
@Cavalier Skating
1920 Richmond Hwy, 22554
Stafford, VA
Skate to your favorite Disney tunes.
Time: 10:30-1pm
Cost: $8
MON. JULY 24
ART BUZZ KIDS: OUR WILD & WONDERFUL NATIONAL PARKS CAMP
@Wine and Design, Fredericksburg
Come explore “America’s best idea”, our national parks! We’ll be learning about (and inspired by!) the depths of the Grand Canyon, the mineral pools of Yellowstone, the scenes of Arches, Yosemite, and celebrating the wild life that calls these parks their home!
Time: 10-2pm
Cost: $250 per ticket wineanddesign.com/Fredericksburg-va
JULY 25-30
FREDNATS GAME
@FredNats Stadium
42 Jackie Robinson Way Fredericksburg, VA 22401 milb.com/fredericksburg
THU., JULY 27
THIRSTY THURSDAY AND TAPAS
@Potomac Point Vineyard & Winery 275 Decatur Rd. Stafford, VA 22554
Time: 3-6pm Potomacpointwinery.com
SUN., JULY 30
WOODLAND HIKE
@Gari Melchers Home And Studio At Belmont
224 Washington St. Falmouth, VA 22405
Conducted by Virginia Master Naturalists, these hikes explore the site’s beautiful woodland trails. Terrain is varied and can be wet; sturdy footwear is recommended. Dogs not permitted.
Time: 2-3:30pm Garimelchers.org
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