June 2024 CH

NEIGHBORS OF

THE PALMER FAMILY: Embracing Adventure, Community, and Entrepreneurship

Cover Photo by Karen Presecan Photography

© Best Version Media

Publisher: Dori Stewart

Designer: DeAnne Bell

Contributing Writer: Cherice Taylor

Publisher’s Assistant: Crissy Hall

Photographer: Karen Presecan

Contributing Writer: Allie Medina

Contributing

Content Coordinator: Mallory Hardgrove

Account Executive: Casey Swindell

Contributing Writer: Nora Ahmad

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.

Dear Neighbors of Courthouse,

As the summer heat arrives, we hope you’ll find a cool spot, open these pages, and enjoy the latest issue we’re excited to bring to your door.

In this edition of Neighbors of Courthouse, we spotlight the Palmers, former military service members turned entrepreneurs, raising their daughters in Embrey Mill. Their inspiring story sets the tone for a magazine packed with community spirit and adventure.

We also share the heartwarming charity Remy’s Reign, a nonprofit dedicated to finding homes for homeless pets, and offer tips for a rejuvenating summer break while minimizing learning loss. Sports enthusiasts will enjoy highlights from Colonial Forge Athletics Programs, and graduating seniors from North Stafford High School offer valuable advice to underclassmen. Expert articles from Bear River Massage and Travelmation provide wellness and travel insights, while a fun kids’ craft and global Father’s Day traditions round out this issue.

We’d love to wish all of our Courthouse Dads a Happy Father’s Day, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors whose generous support makes this magazine possible. Their commitment to our community enables us to continue sharing the stories that matter most.

Do you have a story to share or an idea for a future contribution? We welcome your input and invite you to reach out with your suggestions for upcoming issues.

Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we hope you enjoy the June issue of Neighbors of Courthouse

Happy reading,

Mallory Hardgrove

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Writer: Karie Owens

Contributing Writer: Mora Soan

© Best Version Media

EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS

TREE SERVICE

Billy Kelley | Tree Times 540-720-8733 treetimesinc.com

SKINCARE

Aubry Blais | Thistle Medical Skincare Studio 540-783-8209 thistleskincarestudio.com

PILATES

Suzy Thompson | Club Pilates 540-783-1940 clubpilates.com/stafford

FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Nicole Levermann | First Command 540-659-7060 advisor.firstcommand.com/us/va/stafford

HARDSCAPING

Travis Keyes | Keyes Exteriors 540-424-7330 keyeslandscapingva.com

PAINTING

Timm Milner | WOW 1 Day Painting 703-423-0468 wow1day.com/locations/house-painting-stafford

Melissa Huntley-Bosco | HB Law, PLC 703-398-2143 hblawplc.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

MASSAGE

Linda Osorio, LMT | Bear River Massage 540-356-5535 bearrivermassage.com

INSURANCE

Richard Bibb | Goosehead Insurance 540-349-9069 goosehead.com/agents/va/Stafford/Richard-bibb

CLEANING SERVICES

Bernhard Eugene | Molly Maid of Stafford/Fredericksburg 540-286-0042 mollymaid.com/stafford-fredericksburg

To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact BVM at doristewart@bestversionmedia.com or 540-288-7928.

Is a Travel Agent Really Necessary?

You may be wondering why a travel agent is useful when you can log on to any vacation website and book a trip yourself. There are five major reasons to go through a travel agent, though, especially on something as important and expensive as your family vacations.

First, a travel agent’s job is to give you individualized attention and assistance.

Rather than being one of the millions of clients to Walt Disney World or a cruise line, you are a special client for a travel agent. A travel agent’s sole job is to make sure that every need and want for your trip is taken care of and that you have the absolute best vacation you can.

Second, travel agents can save you a lot of time.

Many destinations can be overwhelming, especially international locations. There is so much that goes into planning each vacation and ensuring that you and your loved ones have the best time.

Agents receive intensive training on various vacation brands and destinations so that they can answer all of your questions and make sure that your precious time is not wasted trying to find the answers online. This also means that if an issue arises with your reservation or you want to make a change to your trip, the agent is the one who calls and waits on hold for extended lengths of time to get the problem resolved.

Third, travel agents can save you money.

Sometimes, agents are able to book deals that others are not, such as exclusive pricing, bonus onboard credit for a cruise, or special amenities at the most luxurious hotels. Other times, if a deal comes out for your vacation after you’ve already booked, agents can adjust the prices for you. Travel agents have been known to send a surprise email to their clients with huge savings for their vacation.

Fourth, travel agents can take away the stress of planning a vacation.

Major trips can be expensive and overwhelming. Vacations, though, should only be about the fun memories you make with your loved ones. Travel agents help streamline the process and create specialized itineraries for you so that you can just enjoy the time with your loved ones when you arrive at your destination.

Finally, the personalized concierge services of travel agents are usually FREE to you.

Many travel agents do not charge any planning fees for their services! Travel agents are paid commission by the vacation companies so they are often a completely free resource for their clients. This means you’re getting all of the extra attention and assistance for the same price (or a better one) as a vacation you could book yourself.

THE PALMER FAMILY: Embracing Adventure, Community, and Entrepreneurship

By Mallory Hardgrove, Photos by Karen Presecan Photography and the Palmer family

The Palmer Family resides in the heart of Liberty Knolls. The dynamic unit is led by Garrick and Chrissy and completed by their four remarkable daughters: Danielle, Gabrielle, Avrielle, and Kristen. Their journey is one adorned with tales of service, love, and the pursuit of dreams.

A Journey Rooted in Service

With a combined service of 44 years in the Army, Garrick and Chrissy exemplify dedication and resilience. Their paths intertwined at Fort Jackson, SC, during the Basic Noncommissioned Officer’s Course in 2002. Fast forward to eight years of marriage and nine years of companionship, their bond remains fortified, with their wedding day etched in memory—a chaotic, yet cherished affair, due to a March snow storm.

“Everything was crazy that weekend,” Chrissy explained. “Luckily, we flew out two days prior to the storm, but my sister (who was my Matron of Honor) and my niece couldn’t find a flight out of Norfolk and had to drive to Baltimore to catch a flight. They literally made it to the venue in Jamaica an hour before start time.”

Others frantically traveled to different airports as well to make it down, dresses were left behind, make-up artists were late, but despite it all, “everything worked out how it was supposed to,” Chrissy said.

Being seasoned veterans, the Palmers were used to being adaptable and showing grace under pressure. These attributes came through on their wedding day and have served them well in their transition to their post-military lives as well, as they’re both now proud business owners.

From Serving Their Country to Serving Coffee and Tea

Both Chrissy and Garrick hold bachelor degrees in business administration, and their education has helped them pivot to their latest venture: Tea’Go Café, an organic coffee and boba tea shop the couple opened in June 2023. Tea’Go is the sister store of Teapresso Bar, founded and located in Hawaii.

“After serving our country, we decided to embark on serving the community of Stafford with tasty boba teas, smoothies, frappes, lemonades, and more,” Chrissy explained. “We wanted to create a space that was inviting for both adults and kids of all ages.” The island theme and the smooth, soul-full sounds of Bob Marley and the Hawaiian vibes transport patrons back to their favorite island– “even if just for a minute,” Chrissy said.

“The amount of daddy-daughter dates we see are amazing,” Garrick added. “But it also tells us we’re getting it right.”

Both Garrick and Chrissy credit the Army with providing a strong foundation for their entrepreneurial pursuits.

© Best Version Media

“More than anything, we believe that the military has given us the foundation that we needed to be successful,” Chrissy said. “We were both Senior Non-Commissioned Officers in the Army, so we’re well-versed in leadership and providing structure,” she explained. “We’re used to operating under stressful situations and making quick decisions. And those basic skills have really come in handy for us this year.”

“I was also a Senior Drill Instructor, so that comes in handy when dealing with our teenage employees,” Garrick commented. The couple is intentional about employeeing teenages from the surrounding high schools, too.

“For many of our employees, this is their first job and the first time they were ever interviewed,” Chrissy explained. “ We truly enjoy providing these opportunities because it’s a way for us to deepen our relationship with the Stafford community.”

Family Life and Pursuits

Along with deepening their relationship with the surrounding community, owning a business helps the Palmers enrich their relationships with their daughters as well.

“Owning my own business has always been a dream of mine, but I didn’t have any personal examples of how to do it or what was even possible,” Chrissy said. “Garrick and I wanted to do something that our girls could be a part of and hopefully one day grow the business beyond our imaginations.”

“All of our girls work at the store– even the youngest,” Chrissy explained. “They’ve been a part of every facet of the business so far. They’re learning in real time what post people spend thousands of dollars to learn, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the experience.”

When they aren’t working at mom and pop’s place, the Palmer daughters flourish in various domains. Each has her own academic journey through Winding Creek, Rodney Thompson, and Colonial Forge, and each daughter exudes a unique passion: Avrielle is quite the crochet enthusiast; Gabrielle serves as the family’s resident techie; Kristen thrives in swim, soccer, and Taekwondo; and Danielle will soon be a published author– be sure to check out His Summer Addiction, coming soon to Amazon! Danielle, a 2024 Colonial Forge graduate, will also be continuing her education at VCU in the fall.

Continued on next page

WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK JEN VAN BUREN REAL ESTATE FOR BRINGING

© Best Version Media

Cherishing Community and Connection

have picked a better neighborhood to raise a family.”

“When we first started house hunting,” Garrick explained, “we were very intentional about making sure the area had a great school system.” A friend of Chrissy’s was a teacher at Winding Creek and mentioned a neighborhood [Liberty Knolls] being built across from Colonial Forge.

“Our oldest was starting high school, and she needed to be given the best possible opportunity to be successful,” he said. “And that’s ultimately why we settled here.”

The move to Liberty Knolls in 2019 was driven by the desire for a nurturing environment for their daughters.

“Neighbors actually talk to each other and share information whether through the neighborhood chat group or Facebook page,” said Chrissy. “We talk while walking our kids to school. We look out for each other here.”

Here, community isn’t just a concept—it’s a vibrant reality. Neighbors bond over water balloon fights, Easter egg hunts, and movie nights, embodying the true essence of camaraderie.

“I love the actual feel of community here,” Chrissy said, “and I love that it is so diverse.”

Liberty Knolls is also “bonded by service,” as Chrissy explained. “This neighborhood is filled with people who have served their country in some capacity. We’re filled with military veterans, retirees, and

Exploring the World and Finding Home

Beyond their neighborhood’s confines, the Palmers are avid travelers. From the tranquil shores of Jamaica to the cultural tapestries of Europe and the enchantment of Disney World, they seize every opportunity to explore and create cherished memories.

“Jamaica is our favorite destination to visit,” Chrissy explained. “Probably because it’s home for my husband.” Their trip to Columbia is another family favorite, but their favorite place remains “wherever and whenever we’re all together.”

“We tell the girls to keep God first always. Everything else will fall into place.”

The Palmer family has certainly found their place in Liberty Knolls, where they can continue to pursue their dreams and embrace all of life’s adventures.

From Pain to Passion: My Journey with Massage Therapy

As I stood in line at the bank, the persistent ache in my shoulder reminded me of my struggles as a 26-year-old juggling two jobs to make ends meet. With each passing minute, the pain intensified, threatening to disrupt my work and daily life. Frustrated and desperate for relief, I made a pivotal decision that would change my life forever.

After cashing my paycheck and realizing I couldn’t afford a doctor’s visit, I turned to alternative solutions. A massage seemed like a feasible option, so I quickly booked a session with a local massage therapist. To my surprise, the 30-minute session alleviated my shoulder pain and sparked a newfound passion within me.

As I left the therapist’s office, I couldn’t help but marvel at the impact a simple massage had on my well-being. The therapist’s ability to relieve my pain in just 30 minutes was not only impressive but also inspiring. At that moment, I decided to pursue a career in massage therapy.

Back pain is a common affliction that many of us experience due to various factors such as structural issues, muscle tightness, poor diet, and stress. However, I discovered that proactive measures like spending time with wellness-minded individuals, incorporating daily exercise routines, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and receiving regular massages can significantly improve our overall health and well-being.

Massage therapy, in particular, has a long history as a form of manual medicine and is widely accepted in medical settings. It offers numerous benefits, from relieving muscle tension and softening tissues to promoting mental relaxation and reducing stress.

At Bear River Wellness Spa, we prioritize creating a serene and welcoming environment where clients can escape the pressures of daily life and invest in their health.

We are located at 29 Banks Ford Pkwy, Fredericksburg. We offer a comprehensive range of massage therapies tailored to meet your needs. Our experienced therapists specialize in medical, sports, and wellness massages, providing targeted relief for injuries, chronic pain, and stress management.

In addition to massage, we offer acupuncture services and a high-quality SunLighten Infrared Sauna with red light therapy to enhance your holistic wellness journey. Our convenient location and flexible hours, including weekends, make it easy for you to prioritize self-care and well-being!

My journey with massage therapy has been transformative, leading me from pain to passion. I hope I have inspired you to experience the benefits firsthand and embark on your wellness journey at Bear River Massage Spa.

Here, you’ll find relief for your back pain and a pathway to a healthier, calmer, and pain-free life. Welcome to a world of wellness and relaxation!

Dori’s Local Favorites

Super Salsa

(con Frijoles Negros)

BY HENRY JEUNET

About 20 years ago, my mother introduced me to a salsa recipe that she got from a friend. The black beans made me nervous, but I gave it a try. I was blown away.

For the next few years, anytime I went to a picnic or potluck dinner, I always made sure to bring this salsa. It was super-easy to make and it always stood out. It even won an “award” at one party. For that contest, I needed to give it a name, so I wrote “Super Salsa con Frijoles Negros,” which just means “Super Salsa with Black Beans.” And the name stuck.

Even now, this recipe is still a hit at home and at parties. Most of the ingredients can be supplied with canned food. But fresh ingredients are always better, so feel free to substitute at will. Just remember to keep the amounts as close as possible.

1 can (15oz) diced tomatoes, drained

1 can (15oz) black beans, drained

1 can (15oz) yellow corn*, drained

1 can (4oz) green chiles

½ cup Italian dressing

2 stalks scallions (aka green onions), chopped

Add all of the canned ingredients to a bowl and stir.

Next, add the chopped scallions. If you’re only using canned foods, the scallions add an aroma that freshens up the other ingredients.

Finally, add the Italian dressing. This is the secret weapon that makes this salsa stand out. Refrigerate (overnight if possible). Like revenge, this salsa is best served cold.

Serve with tortilla chips. This salsa can also be used as a topping for chicken or steak. Or you can add a few scoops to your salad. It’s extremely versatile.

*Early on, I once accidentally used cream corn, and the response was… not enthusiastic.

If you would like to contribute a favorite recipe, please email Mallory at mhardgrove@bestversionmedia.com.

Pork Belly Tacos THE SUNKEN WELL TAVERN

Oysters on the Half Shell LA PETITE AUBERGE

Sushi & Sashimi UMI JAPANESE CUISINE

TIPS FOR GRILLING FRUIT

BY CASSIDY SCHWIMMER

Meat and veggies are common foods thrown on the grill in the summertime, but have you ever thought about grilling fruit? This tasty treat is a staple in my household as the days get warmer. Here are some ideas on how to grill up some sugary produce at your next BBQ.

Pineapple - A classic fruit to put on the grill. Grilled pineapple tastes not only wonderful on its own but paired with ham or beef for an added acidic taste. It can be grilled with or without the use of a barrier between the fruit and the gridiron. If you are worried about the fruit sticking, try adding oil with a higher smoking point and little taste, like avocado oil.

Watermelon - I know it sounds like this fruit wouldn’t grill well, but it is actually my favorite to sear! Watermelon, as the name suggests, does release a lot of water as it cooks, so try not to press down on the fruit when trying to get those perfect grill marks. Instead, cut this fruit into wedges with the rind intact, so it holds its shape, and then leave it alone! Sprinkle some salt (my favorite is flakey sea salt) or other savory seasoning to take the flavor to the next level.

Mango - This Latin American dish is popular for a reason. Often sold as street food, it is delicious and best served spicy! Sprinkle on some chile powder or spritz with lime. The best way to grill is to cut the fruit into halves, and then create a diamond-shaped pattern by scoring the flesh, taking care not to cut the skin. Brush the scored side with some oil and press face down for less than a minute.

Banana - Who wouldn’t love caramelized grilled bananas? This popular dessert is best served with a heaping scoop of vanilla ice cream. Just combine honey and sugar, pour over open-faced, peeled bananas, and grill until tender. Very yellow or slightly greenish bananas work best so as to not overcook them. Cook them quick, though! These fruits will burn easily.

Cranberry Peach Pomegranate Mocktail

BY AMANDA GRIFFIN

A super refreshing mocktail that’s nothing short of an explosion of tangy and sweet flavor. It’s great alone or mixed with vodka or gin, or you can substitute champagne for the ginger ale for a delicious champagne cocktail.

Ingredients

1/2 cup frozen fresh cranberries

1 cup frozen fresh peach slices

2 cups pomegranate juice

1/2 tsp freshly crushed or grated ginger

1 liter (3 cans) of dry ginger ale

8-12 ice cubes

Directions

In a blender, combine cranberries, peach slices, pomegranate juice, and ginger. Puree until all pieces are crushed

Add ice to blender and do several pulse bursts to rough chop the ice cubes.

Combine blended mixture with ginger ale and stir. Pour into glasses and enjoy!

Ideas for stepping it up a notch

Serve in sugar-rimmed glasses or flutes

Garnish with orange, lemon, or lime slices, a few pomegranate arils, or a sprig of fresh mint

MartyC. Stafford, VA

THE HISTORY OF

BY GRACE SCHULTE

Father’s Day is a widely celebrated holiday that, in Canada and the United States, takes place on the third Sunday in June. Although the holiday is well-known, its history may surprise some people. Father’s day was first celebrated on June 19, 1910 in the state of Washington. Yet, it took 58 years from the day Mother’s Day was made a national holiday for Father’s Day to become one too.

The first campaign to celebrate Father’s Day was not met with the same enthusiasm seen with Mother’s Day. Historians have gathered that people just didn’t feel that “fathers [had] the same sentimental appeal that mothers have.” Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington is widely recognized for pioneering Father’s Day. She wanted to establish an official day for celebrating male parents, equal to that of their female counterparts. She campaigned around her community in order to gain support for her idea, and eventually she became responsible for pushing the nation’s first statewide Father’s Day in 1910.

In the years following, the holiday started to gain national recognition. First, President Woodrow Wilson honored the day in 1916 by unfurling a flag in Spokane from Washington, D.C. Then, in 1924, President Calvin Coolidge personally urged the state governments to observe the holiday. The Father’s Day campaign push was not without its challenges throughout the 20s and 30s though. According to historians, some men felt that the holiday was attempting to “domesticate manliness with flowers and gift giving” and that it was “a commercial gimmick to sell more products–often paid for by the father himself.” However, when World War II (WWII) began, advertisers argued that celebrating Father’s Day was a way to honor American troops. By the end of the war, Father’s Day had gained more traction than ever before. Finally, in the midst of an arduous re-election campaign, Richard Nixon signed the proclamation to make Father’s Day a federal holiday.

Father’s Day is recognized in countries all over the world, and although each country may celebrate in slightly different ways, the purpose remains the same. Remember to wish a father a happy Father’s Day this June!

References: www.history.com

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Father’s Day Traditions Around the World

BY JULIA PESNELL

In the United States, Father’s Day is an integral aspect of many families. It was made an official holiday rather recently, in 1972, and is now celebrated annually on the third Sunday of June. Being a day full of family gatherings, gifts, and overall a showering of love for all of the father figures, it truly is a special celebration.

Many other countries around the world hold as much pride in a day to celebrate beloved father figures as the United States does, especially as each other country has developed many of their own unique traditions.

JAPAN

Japanese Father’s day is celebrated on the third Sunday of June, and it is known as “Chichi no hi.” Flowers play a crucial role in this celebration, as a highly respected tradition is to give fathers yellow roses. Yellow roses are a symbol of happiness and inner strength. On this day, another critical aspect is the time the families get to spend together including family lunches or dinners, where they are likely to have a meal consisting of crab or prawn.

SPAIN

Father’s Day, or Dia Del Padre, in Spain is celebrated to coincide with the Catholic holiday of St.Joseph’s Day, on March 19th (and Italy celebrates on this day as well). This day is used to celebrate the life of Joseph, Mary’s husband, as he represents the values of a good father and husband, and the leader of a holy family. The Spanish culture has several Father’s Day traditions including, tres leches cake and other authentic foods, homemade gifts from the children, and friendly competitions such as soccer and sack races between members of the families.

INDIA

Father’s Day in India is celebrated annually on the third Sunday of June, and is seen as a day to celebrate the personal heroes of each family. The tradition behind Indian Father’s Day is reciprocal between the children, who show their respect to their fathers through gifts, and the fathers, who spend time with their children to sow wise values into them. The gifts most commonly given are homemade cards and flowers. Indian families also often go out to a nice restaurant for dinner, or go on a picnic and to a movie to celebrate the father figures and personal heroes of each family.

THAILAND

Thai Father’s Day, more commonly known as Wan Por in Thailand, is celebrated on December 5th. This date corresponds with the King Bhumibol Adulyadej Birthday Commemoration Day, the day their highly-valued late king was born. On this day, families present their fathers and grandfathers with a canna flower called “dok phuttha raksa” in Thai. There are also many festivals on this day to honor the late king’s birthday celebration and have a fun day to celebrate father figures.

KATHMANDU VALLEY OF NEPAL

These natives use the Father’s Day celebration to honor father figures who have already passed, and they do so with a day in late August or September called, “Gokarna Aunsi”, meaning, “day for looking at father’s face”. The specific fate carries yearly, as the day of honor must coincide with the lunar calendar, and the new moon day.

SOUTH AFRICA

The celebration of Father’s Day in South Africa takes place on the third Sunday in June, and is a day honoring the critical role father’s place in nurturing and cultivating children, as well as building a strong, well-rounded society. This is a day for families to spend quality time together, and many South Africans use this time to go out for a picnic in the sun, or fishing in a nearby lake wishing to catch their dinner. Children give their fathers handmade cards, flowers, neckties, and novel gifts.

No matter the way you celebrate Father’s Day, it is certain that it is a day full of expressed gratefulness, thankfulness, and love, for the wonderful people who play strong father figures throughout our lives.

© Best Version Media

REMY’S REIGN: NURTURING HOPE FOR HOMELESS ANIMALS

Tirelessly working to provide a lifeline for unwanted and homeless animals throughout Virginia, Lauren Todd founded Remy’s Reign. Remy’s Reign extends a helping hand to animals in need by offering a range of essential services.

“We help unwanted and homeless animals throughout Virginia by providing a foster home, medical care, and any necessary training to get them ready to find their forever home,” explained Lauren. Beyond sheltering animals, Remy’s Reign also contributes to the welfare of the community by providing trap-neuter-return (TNR) services for community cats and free microchips for pet owners, fostering a culture of responsible pet ownership.

At the core of Remy’s Reign lies a profound philosophy: that every animal deserves a chance to find a loving home. Lauren Todd passionately emphasized this belief, stating, “Every animal deserves a chance in life to find their forever loving home.” This guiding principle serves as the driving force behind the organization’s tireless efforts to alleviate the suffering of homeless animals and provide them with a brighter future.

Reflecting on her journey, Lauren recounts her early experiences as a teenage volunteer at a local horse rescue, which ignited her passion for animal welfare. “I started Remy’s Reign so we could assist more animals in need,” she explained, highlighting the pivotal moment that inspired her to establish the organization and extend its reach to help more animals in distress.

Despite the challenges encountered along the way, Lauren finds inspiration in the profound impact of rescue work.

“My biggest inspiration is seeing the look on an animal’s face when they realize they have been saved,” she shares. The joy of witnessing animals find their forever homes serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of their mission.

In its commitment to serving the community, Remy’s Reign organizes fundraising events to garner support for its cause, such as the recent paint night at Wine and Design in Fredericksburg, VA.

With unwavering dedication and compassion, Remy’s Reign continues to make a tangible difference in the lives of animals and communities alike. As Lauren aptly summed up, “We can’t save them all, but we matter to the ones we do save.”

To learn more about Remy’s Reign, check out remysreign.org or our Facebook page @Remy’s Reign.

Meet Courtney, a delightful 2-year-old Black and Tan hound mix eagerly awaiting her forever home. Courtney thrives in the company of other dogs and has a special affection for children, making her an ideal addition to any family dynamic. Fully house and crate trained, she eagerly awaits adventures, whether it’s going for leisurely walks or accompanying you on car rides. Courtney’s journey to finding her forever family began when we took in three malnourished puppies, aiding in their rehabilitation and adoption. Shortly after, we discovered Courtney trapped in a house for almost two weeks after her owner was incarcerated, while the puppies managed to escape. True to our commitment of never leaving a mom behind, we welcomed Courtney into our rescue, where she has since blossomed. Despite her incredible qualities and multiple appearances at adoption events and on our site, Courtney has yet to find her perfect match. Help us ensure Courtney’s story has a happy ending by opening your heart and home to this remarkable girl.

TIPS FOR DINING WITH YOUR DOG

BY LUCINDA HAHN

Dog-friendly restaurants and bars offer a great way to spend time with your pooch. These tips will help make it an enjoyable, stress-free experience for both of you.

Check the Rules: Each establishment will have its own restrictions. Some places may require dogs to be on a leash at all times, while others may have rules on the size or breed of dogs allowed. Calling ahead will avert any unwelcome surprises.

Ensure Proper Socialization: If your dog exhibits aggressive or anxious behavior in crowded environments, it may be best to leave them at home. Tip: Arrive early to give your pup time to adjust to the new environment before the crowd swells.

Bring the Essentials: Pack a bag with water, a portable water bowl, doggie waste bags and some treats. Having these items on hand will ensure that your dog stays comfortable. Consider bringing a lightweight pad for your pooch to lie on.

Keep Your Dog Occupied: Bring along toys or chew treats to keep your dog busy while you enjoy your meal or drinks. Tip: Feed your dog before you leave home. A satisfied dog is less likely to beg for food or become disruptive.

Be Mindful of Other Diners: Keep your dog from approaching other diners or pets unless invited. While you may adore your furry friend, not everyone shares the same sentiment. If your dog gets noisy or disruptive, promptly address the behavior or remove them from the establishment.

Be a Responsible Pooper Scooper: Accidents happen, so be prepared to clean up after your dog if they have an unexpected bathroom mishap. Promptly remove any waste and notify the staff so they can assist with cleanup if necessary.

Monitor Your Dog’s Behavior: Keep a close eye on your dog to spot whining, restlessness or excessive panting. These can indicate that your dog may be overwhelmed, anxious or just plain bored — and that it’s time to wrap up the outing and head home.

© Best Version Media

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.”

THE MOTTO OF JOHN C. FREMONT HIGH SCHOOL IS FIND A PATH, OR MAKE ONE!

The 2023-2024 school year is over. Some goals were met and some goals were missed. That is okay. It’s what we learn from the missed goals that can better propel us to the next goals.

Summer break is a time to celebrate the wins, reflect on and correct the challenges or missed goals. It is also important to take a break. We all need one and this includes our children regardless of their age.

The challenge is how to take a break, recharge, and limit the risk of learning loss that can take place during the summer break. Below are a few tips:

• The National PTA has great resources for families at all grade levels. It shows specific skills that are covered at each grade level and what you can do as a family to help your student. www.pta.org/home/ family-resources/Parents-Guides-to-Student-Success.

• Summer camps, internships, shadowing professionals are some ways to make productive use of time. I recommend looking at the local school divisions and universities, family and community magazines, parks and recreation sites, and local businesses that cater to students throughout the year for potential learning opportunities.

Dance to Express

• The Central Rappahannock Regional Library is also a great resource. They have year long reading challenges and so many other resources. For more information contact them at https://www.librarypoint.org/ reading-challenges/.

Harry S. Truman

Not all readers are leaders, but all leaders are readers.

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Karie, a native of Pennsylvania, cherishes her roots in faith and family above all else. Together with her husband and their nine children, they have fearlessly embraced life’s adventures, including living in Africa and establishing a successful business. Beyond her roles as a dedicated wife and mother, Karie is a passionate educator, talented musician, and enthusiastic traveler. Her love for exploring new cultures and experiencing the world is matched only by her appreciation for a good cup of coffee.

CONSIDERING CARPET?

How much do you know about carpet? If you had to choose a new carpet for your home, would you know what to look for? If you came to our showroom at NK Floors, and I sat down with you, coffee in hand, what would you ask me? You may share color preferences, the textures that feel flattering on your feet, and which rooms need a new, cozy comfort. However, please let me share helpful considerations for your upcoming carpet purchase. Together, let’s talk about…

Your needs. What does your life look like? Do you entertain guests? Do you have pets? Do you have teens or small children? Do you plan on placing the carpet in a high-traffic area? If you answered “Yes,” you would benefit from a synthetic fabric like nylon. Nylon is durable, resilient, and easily maintained. Triexta is also synthetic, durable, and stain-resistant. Polyester carpets are not as durable as nylon but are stain-resistant, soft, and beautiful. For a home that loves pets, Shaw Floors touts cleanliness and long-lasting beauty with ultra-durable Pet Perfect carpet and Pet Perfect+ with LifeGuard® Spill-Proof Technology. Mohawk PETPremier™ is a pet-friendly, sustainable carpet that is stylish and stain-resistant. For high-traffic areas, choose a carpet with fade resistance like Mohawk’s ultraSTRAND, and for a softer feel, Mohawk’s everSTRAND soft appeal. Stain protection, fade resistance, softness, and household members are good starting points for consideration.

Your style. Depending on the area where the carpet is to be placed, you can choose from several styles. Plush carpet works well for living rooms and bedrooms. Showing footprints and vacuum lines should be avoided in high-traffic areas. Textured cut, having more than one color with a two-toned look, will hide

dirt and tends to hide vacuum tracks and footprints. This is an intelligent choice when considering high-traffic areas. Other styles that are excellent at hiding dirt and tracks are Frieze, Sculptured, and Looped or Berber.

Choosing a retailer with quality products and installation. This is where quality comes in. You receive superior quality if you choose a company offering products they believe in and excel in installation procedures. If you come to us, you will learn which carpet and padding is best, which transitions to choose, how to factor in furniture moving, carpet and pad removal, and everything involved from start to finish.

When considering carpet, consider your style and quality! Consider NK Floors!

WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK NK FLOORS FOR BRINGING YOU THIS MONTH'S HOME IMPROVEMENT CORNER

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Colonial Forge High School Highlights

Allie Medina is a Colonial Forge junior and editor of their school newspaper, Talon Online News. Outside of writing, she plays for the Varsity soccer team. She also is co-founder and vice president of Forge’s Female Empowerment Club, which works to provide a platform for women-based acts of service.

Sports Round-Up

Colonial Forge had a great year in athletics, with multiple teams making districts and even beyond.

During the fall season, the girl’s volleyball team made it all the way to States, further than any further classes have gone. Grace Ostvig, a junior on the team, spoke on their accomplishments.

“This year’s team went the furthest we’ve ever gone in school history and we made it all the way to states and just playing at the level we did, it was very big.”

With the level of teams getting better and better as they went through the stages, it was a difficult transition but one they handled well.

“As we went further and further in the season and played against more teams it has really helped us to be able to develop that IQ of watching other teams footage and understanding how they play and being able to adjust according to that.”

This wasn’t just some random lucky streak. The motivation behind each player was real and the hard work they put in was next level.

“Our biggest motivation this year was just knowing that this year we just really had something special going on. We had a lot of really good seniors and I think everyone understood, if we want to do something big like this, this would have to be the year.”

And it certainly was, throughout the season their back to back wins took them all the way to states.

The Girl’s Cross Country team also had a great year with junior Kate Loescher making it to States.

Further in the year, the track team was able to make its mark as well, becoming regional champs for the 26th time and district champs for the 51st, extending the Forge legacy even longer.

The key to their success? According to junior Landon Walker, it would be accountability and a special bond between the team.

“My teammates are my biggest motivation. We all hold each other accountable so my motivation comes from wanting to be great not just for myself but for them as well.”

It’s not just the team that makes their success though, the coaches have also had a big impact on their success.

“They never give up on me and it’s nice to know I will always have their support.”

Over in the spring season, Girl’s Soccer took home the title for the sub-regional championship.

“It was a great season and we played in some competitive games. I’m glad we were able to show what a fantastic team this is with all the hard work we have put in this season,” Sadie McIllece (‘25), captain of the team shared.

“It’s great to be able to leave the field knowing we went all out as a team and just being surrounded by the people you enjoy playing with, it’s great to experience all of this and have it lead to success,” Leila Cummings (‘25) chimed in.

Although all the teams this year had great runs, these are the ones that made the biggest impact on the year and were able to solidify Forge’s rank.

© Best Version Media

North Stafford High School Highlights

Nora Ahmad, currently in her junior year at North Stafford High School, is involved with the school’s DECA Club and the Book Buddy program. She harbors a strong interest in literature, journalism, business, and writing. Nora aspires to achieve her dream of becoming a published author one day.

Celebrating the Class of 2024

Last month, North Stafford High School and other high schools across the country celebrated and proudly sent off their high school seniors. North Nation encourages your path in life no matter where you go and what you choose to do. We celebrate and commend our 2024 graduating seniors for their hard work and dedication for the past four years.

The class of 2024 displayed excellence in their academics and sports, and their ability to keep going. They also harbored a desire to learn despite all the challenges of COVID-19. They were brought into a whole new school as freshmen and were required to learn virtually. Despite the challenges and difficulties of learning virtually, they excelled in every way and still graduated proudly this year. This class displays excellence in every way and proves that if they can get through these challenging times, so can you.

Some seniors gave their advice to underclassmen as well as how the road to graduation was because, as we all know, graduation can be very overwhelming and difficult.

“The college application process was an emotional rollercoaster because I applied late. At first, I was going to go into the military, but I changed my mind. Still, the process was really easy because I had some friends who helped me work through it,” said Hakim Sesay, a 2024 high school graduate who will be attending Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in the fall. If you are a student in a similar situation as Hakim, don’t worry because there is always an option for you no matter what you do.

Hakim also shared his experience changing his diploma halfway through his high school career.

“I didn’t want to take some classes (like Spanish) anymore because I wasn’t getting anything from it.

Also, trying my best on assignments over the years and turning in work increased my GPA. I almost didn’t meet graduation requirements because I had multiple unexcused absences. Still, I got back on track,” he said. “My advice to underclassmen and rising seniors is to come to school and make it count, do your best so you won’t have to keep doing the same thing over and over again. Quite frankly, it’s not worth the waste of time,” he shard, adding a “#GORAMS!”

Sesay Hakim’s advice is crucial if you are someone who is chronically absent. If you are that person, do not worry: it isn’t too late to get back on the right track.

“My advice is to not stress too much, but also don’t wait until the last minute to do something,” advised Carlee-Scott Alley, a 2024 high school graduate going to Virginia Military Institute (VMI) in the fall.

Abigail Ferguson, an extremely hardworking and dedicated individual, also provided some words of wisdom.

“Applying to college was very stressful because I didn’t know what college I wanted to go to, and I did it without help from anyone,” she said.

She plans to attend Virginia Wesleyan University in the fall and also plans to work during college through a plan that VWU offers to help students pay their tuition.

Like Abigail Ferguson, many students struggle with college tuition and wonder how they will be able to pay for college as well as other expenses. If you find yourself in a similar situation or are curious about what schools offer similar tuition programs, talk to your counselor and reach out to any colleges in your area to see what they offer.

“The road to graduation was really challenging, but I am graduating a year early. I decided this a

few months into my junior year. I took challenging courses throughout my high school career and stayed on an advanced diploma track,” Abigail said. “My advice to underclassmen is to go to class. Do the work. Get it over with. Don’t give yourself a reason to question where you’ll end up.” Abigail’s advice further expressed how important it is to make sure you’re attending class and doing your work. Her experience also demonstrates how, despite taking rigorous and challenging courses, you can still excel because you can do anything you want.

Let’s congratulate the class of 2024 one more time for all of the hard work and dedication; they truly displayed “North Excellence,” as well as “Wolverine Pride.”

© Best Version Media

SAT., JUNE 8

KIDS FISHING DERBY

@Motts Run Reservoir

Time: 7:30am- 12:30pm 6600 River Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22405

FRI., JUNE 14

PRIDE PROM: BACK TO THE ‘90S

@Downtown Library- Theater Room

Time: 6- 10pm 1201 Caroline St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

SAT., JUNE 15

JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION

@Colonial Forge High School Time: 11am

550 Courthouse Rd. Stafford, VA 22554

SAT., JUNE 15

PLANNING DISTRICT 16’S JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION

@Virginia Credit Union Stadium

Time: 2:30- 9pm 42 Jackie Robinson Way Fredericksburg, VA 22401

SAT., JUNE 15

TROPICAL JOHNSON

@Strangeways Brewing Fredericksburg Time: 8pm

350 Lansdowne Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

THURS., JUNE 20

SUMMER SOLSTICE FESTIVAL

@Riverfront Park

Time: 5:30- 9:30pm

701 Sophia St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

FRI., JUNE 21

ANTHONY JAMES BAND

@Full Distance Brewing Time: 6- 9pm

605 Corporate Dr. #101 Stafford, VA 225546

SAT., JUNE 22

FLY FISHING & BOURBON

@A. Smith Bowman Distillery

Time: 11am- 4pm

1 Bowman Dr. Fredericksburg, VA 22408

SUN., JUNE 30

GUIDED WOODLAND HIKE

@Gari Melchers Home and Studio Time: 2- 3pm

224 Washington St. Falmouth, VA 22405

THURS., JULY 4

FABULOUS FOURTH AT FERRY FARM

@George Washington’s Ferry Farm Time: 10am- 4pm

268 Kings Hwy. Fredericksburg, VA 22405

FRI., JULY 5

FIRST FRIDAY

@Downtown FXBG

Time: 5- 9pm

706 Caroline St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

120 River Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22405

MULTIPLE DAY EVENTS

PICNIC IN THE PARK

EVERY TUESDAY IN JUNE

@Kenmore Memorial Park

Time: 11:30am- 1:30pm 1401 Kenmore Ave. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

AS YOU LIKE IT

SAT., JUNE 8- SUN., JUNE 9

SAT., JUNE 15- SUN., JUNE 16

@The Lawn at Historic Kenmore

Time: 6:30- 8:30pm; Doors open at 5:30pm 1200 Washington Avenue Fredericksburg, VA

ADVENTURE JEOPARDY

EVERY WEDNESDAY

@Adventure Brewing- Eagle Village

Time: 7:30- 9pm

1113 Jefferson Davis Hwy. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

TRIVIA WITH TRAPPER EVERY WEDNESDAY

@6 Bears & A Goat Brewing Company

Time: 7pm

1140 International Pkwy. Fredericksburg, VA 22406

THE WIZARD OF OZ

NOW THRU SUN., JULY 14

@Riverside Center for the Performing Arts Various Showtimes 95 Riverside Pkwy. Fredericksburg, VA 22406

SUMMER CAMPS! JUNE 3- AUG. 2

@Corgi Clay Art Center Time: 9am- 12pm (rising 1st- 3rd graders); 1- 4pm (rising 4th- 6th graders) 15 Tech Pkwy. Stafford, VA 22556

Tickets: corgiclayartcenter.com/class-list 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.

You don’t need acres of land to grow your own fruits and vegetables. All you need is a bit of space and a sunny spot. Here are some tips to grow your very own garden right on your deck or patio.

Prep your space

Spend a few days scoping out the perfect location for growing. Observe your deck or patio at different times during the day and make note of the space receiving the most direct sunlight. Clean off any debris and trim any branches around the area. Once you’ve chosen a spot, decide how many plants you would like to grow and make sure there is enough room.

Pick your favorite plants

Head to your local greenhouse to choose the perfect plants for your patio. When planning your garden, it’s best to think small. Do you eat salads often? Try making a salad garden with lettuce, radishes, peppers and cherry tomatoes. Can’t get enough Italian food? Fill your pots with basil, arugula, oregano and heirloom tomatoes.

Help your garden grow

It is important to tend to your growing vegetables. Once you have potted your plants, check them frequently and water as needed. Watch out for any pests or critters that might want to nibble on your growing bounty. Pay special attention to severe weather. Plants can get knocked over in a bad storm, so make sure they are safe and secure.

Enjoy the harvest

Now comes the fun part. Get the family involved by having kids pick out a new recipe and choose the best ripe vegetables and herbs for the dish. Once the plants are done for the season, you can start planning your garden for next year!

© Best Version Media

Materials:

• 1 paper cup

• 4 plastic bottle caps

• 1 bamboo skewer (0.11 in diameter x 11.81 in long)

• 1 straw

Directions:

• Marker or paint (optional)

• 2 wiggly eyes (1 inch)

• Scissors

• Hot glue gun

Easy Paper Cup Car

This activity is brought to you by Mora Soan, author of 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.

Step 1: (Optional) Paint the 4 plastic bottle caps for the wheels. Let the paint dry completely.

Step 2: Ask an adult to cut the straw into two pieces, each about 3 inches long.

Step 3: Cut the bamboo skewer into two pieces, each about 4 inches long, slightly longer than the straw..

Step 4: Glue the two straw pieces vertically, opposite to the paper cup, leaving a 2-inch space in between.

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

Step 5: Insert each bamboo skewer piece into each straw (alongside).

Step 6: Ask an adult to hot glue the 4 plastic bottle caps at the end of each bamboo skewer to form the wheels.

Step 7: Glue the wiggly eyes on the bottom of the paper cup and draw a happy smile (optional).

Step 8: Tie a string to the top of the hoop for hanging.

Now your car is ready for a race! Who will win?

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