DEC 2025 CH by FXBG Neighbors

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PUBLICATION TEAM

Contributing

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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.

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As we close out 2025, we have so much to celebrate! We had a wonderful time gathering with our feature families, charities, and business sponsors a few weeks ago to celebrate all of our local FXBG Neighbors magazines—and we’re thrilled about what 2026 has in store!

This month, we’re delighted to spotlight the Dorsey family, whose dedication to service, fitness, and life-long learning is nothing short of inspirational. We’re also honored to shine a light on the Fairy Godmother Project, a remarkable local charity making a heartfelt difference for families affected by pediatric cancer.

To our loyal readers and dedicated sponsors: thank you for being part of our story. Your support means the world to us! Wishing you and yours a joyful holiday season—see y’all in 2026!

Happy reading,

Mallory Hardgrove

FXBGNeighbors FXBGNeighbors

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Mallory Hardgrove

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EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS

CATERING

Will and Maria Negron | Hit the Spot Kitchen 540-479-1687 Hitthespotkitchen.com

ESTATE PLANNING, REAL ESTATE, & BUSINESS LAW

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

FUNERAL SERVICES

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

ORTHODONTICS

Matthew H. Caspersen, D.D.S., M.S. Rappahannock Orthodontics 540-371-2611 drcaspersen.com

PAINTING

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

Todd Gerace | Mullins & Thompson Funeral Service 540-373-5842 (Fredericksburg), 540-659-7690 (Stafford) dignitymemorial.com

HARDSCAPING

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

HARDWOOD FLOORING

Enos and Amy Pacheco | Pacheco’s Hardwood Floor 571-383-5946 | 571-575-1570 Spanish pachecoshardwoodfloor.com

LANDSCAPING

Mason Lewis | Lewis Enterprises 540-903-8978 lewisenterprisesva.com

MASSAGE

Linda Osorio, LMT | Bear River Massage

PILATES

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

PLUMBING

Gregory White | White Plumbing Company 703-672-8667 whiteplumbingco.com

REAL ESTATE

Ginger Walker | Give Back Team of Coldwell Banker Elite 540-306-5585 GiveBackTeam.com

SKINCARE

Aubry Blais | Thistle Medical Aesthetics 540-783-8209 thistlemedicalaesthetics.com

TREE SERVICE

Billy Kelley | Tree Times

Mullins & Thompson Funeral Service

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HEALTHY HOLIDAY HABITS: KEEPING YOUR FITNESS GOALS

HOLIDAY-PROOF

The holidays are a special time to welcome celebration, gift-giving, warmth, and connection with those we care about. At the same time, we might worry that any progress we have made in our health and fitness will be interrupted during this season. Here are some great tips to help you keep up with your goals while still enjoying the season.

First and foremost, remind yourself that the season is meant to be appreciated and enjoyed. Any break from your routine should bring no negativity or guilt with it; simply think ahead about the changes to your calendar such as travel or parties, and plan around those events accordingly. Being mentally prepared is half the battle, plus giving yourself permission to change things up while still staying on track with diet and fitness goals.

Eating Tips for the Holidays:

When tempted by an indulgent meal, follow these tips:

1. Hydrate and satiate – drink plenty of water (or other non-sugary/non-alcoholic beverage) to help fill the stomach, flush out toxins and feel less hungry. You will be less likely to overindulge.

2. Have a nice plate of food, then take your time and enjoy it! Spend 20 minutes in conversation before you even think about taking seconds, then notice that you’re actually less interested in circling back.

3. Eat protein choices first, including healthy fats, to help the body feel full. Starches and sugars can come later in the meal.

4. Forgive and move on - so you had an indulgent meal! Rather than punish yourself with a guilt trip, remind yourself it is only

one meal, and you can get back on track with your very next meal.

5. Avoid telling yourself, “I’ll start eating healthier on January 1st.” This only sets you up to compound poor habits over several weeks rather than a meal or two.

Exercise Tips for the Holidays:

1. Maintain consistency – even while traveling or having guests, prioritize time to get moving. Maybe there won’t be many opportunities for 3-hour gym trips but prepare to do some online training from home for 30- 60 minutes a few times a week. You still might even find time to hit the gym a couple of times!

2. Involve family and friends in some fitness fun. Look for opportunities to involve movement in your everyday activities; maybe taking a walk to the store, playing a game of touch football, hitting the mall or shopping center to shop or return items.

3. Boosting your activity level to challenge your body’s equilibrium is great, but you don’t want to overdo it with grueling exercise sessions. Look for workouts that give the body balanced muscle recruitment in exercise modes you are already accustomed to, so your body won’t feel like it’s rebelling against you the next day.

4. Full-body training 3X/week is plenty to keep you on track, whether you are a regular exerciser or not.

5. If you are traveling and need to work out on your own, a yoga mat and simple 15–20-minute routine will help both your mind and body. Here is a basic Pilates Routine you can do with just a yoga mat (All exercises can be found online):

Simple Pilates Mat Routine

• 100’s – 10 reps or 10 pumps

• Roll Up – 5 reps

• 1-Leg Circles 3 reps, reverse, then change legs

• Rolling Like a Ball* - 5 reps

• Single Leg Stretch – 6 reps, both sides

• Double legs Stretch - 6 reps

• Criss Cross – 6 reps, both sides

• Swan Prep – 3 reps

• Rest Position (Stretch)

• Shoulder Bridge Prep – 5 reps

• Side Lying Series – Forward & Back – 6 reps

• Side Lying Series – Up & Down –5 reps

• Side Lying Series – Inner Thigh Lifts/ Circles – 3 reps

• Side Lying Series – other side all 3 exercises

• Half Roll backs – 5 reps

• Hover Plank – 30 seconds – 1 minute

• Swimming Prep – 3 reps, both sides

• Seal* - 5 reps

*If affected by spinal issues such as herniated discs, fusion, osteopenia/perosis, just hold the feet off the floor and do not roll.

Last, hold fast to your goals, but find time to enjoy the season, because your mental health is just as important as physical health. The positive feelings that come from keeping balance in your life over the holidays will lead to a better cycle of health and well-being, including better sleep, less stress, and freedom from illness and injury. What better way to make the holidays feel like the celebration they are intended to be!

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JOHN C. MAXWELL

ANTHONY TRUCKS

JESSE COLE

CRAIG GROESCHEL

TIFFANY BOVA

DORI STEWART

MIKE MCCLANAHAN

VERNON GREEN JR.

JAMES KINGMAN

KIRSTIN PURCELL

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CHILDREN’S AUTHOR TRANSFORMS EVERYDAY MOMENTS INTO LITERARY TREASURES

For Jacquelene D’Amico, magic isn’t found just in fantasy, but it is discovered in the everyday moments spent with her three children exploring the Fredericksburg area. Her debut children’s book, The Adventures of Trollee and Alice, emerged from those very moments, transforming imaginative playground games into a heartfelt literary adventure.

The story’s origin is charmingly simple. “It all started on a windy and cloudy day. I was playing with my daughter on a playground, pretending to be a snack-deprived troll,” D’Amico recalls. That playful game of “Trollee” expanded beyond the playground, eventually welcoming additional characters like Periwinkle, a mischievous dragon with a colorful past of “eating the chickens at Braehead farm and nibbling on naughty boys.”

But beneath the whimsy lies a deeper purpose. D’Amico wrote the book during an intensely personal time while her mother was in hospice with only one month left to live. “I began seriously pursuing this dream of creating a children’s book” during that period, she shares. The Adventures of Trollee and Alice quickly became a “tribute to the magical power of childhood and the love that lasts beyond this life as it was written during a time of personal grief and spiritual reflection.”

As the founder of Smart Cookies Education Services LLC, a reading tutoring company, D’Amico infuses her educational expertise throughout the book. Each chapter highlights virtues like integrity, kindness, and self-confidence, using creative metaphors—such as a volcanic library eruption representing anger—to help children navigate big emotions. The

book also features bolded vocabulary words and “Trollee’s Guide to Tricky Words,” a glossary designed to build reading confidence.

The Fredericksburg area itself plays a starring role in D’Amico’s work. Local treasures, including Braehead Farm, the goldfish pond at Chatham, the Central Rappahannock Regional Library, and Gari Melchers’ Belmont Home and Studio, all influenced the narrative, either appearing directly or inspiring scenes throughout the book.

Her writing schedule reflects the reality of parenting three children. “I would write during naptimes or start at 4 am before they woke up,” she explains—a testament to her dedication and the early-morning quiet that many parents know well.

Beyond writing, D’Amico stays connected to her creative process through art museum visits with her family and engaging with local authors and businesses. She calls The Mount her church family, and her love of art continues to shape her work.

When it comes to favorite local spots, D’Amico can hardly choose just one, enthusiastically listing The Book Market FXBG, Tales and Tails Book Café, Du Jardin Home and Garden, Jabberwocky Children’s Books and Toys, The Grounds Bistro and Café, Gari Melchers’ Belmont, and Art Cart Kids as must-visit destinations.

Through The Adventures of Trollee and Alice, D’Amico has created something rare: a book that entertains readers (both young and old), educates, and honors “the moments that truly matter—those quiet, playful times that often go unnoticed but are filled with eternal love.”

Want to connect with Jacquelene? Check out her website jacquelenedamico.com, where you’ll find fun author events, behind-the-scenes inspiration, and more. You can also follow her on Instagram @author_jacquelene_damico and facebook.com/trolleeandalice.

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CELEBRATING SENIORS: THE ART OF CREATING MEANINGFUL BANNERS THROUGH

PHOTOGRAPHY

How It Started

Every student-athlete deserves to feel celebrated. That’s the philosophy behind Karen Presecan Photography’s senior banner service. This heartfelt tradition honors the dedication and hard work of young athletes and performers at the end of their high school journey and senior season.

Karen’s banner-creating journey started simply but meaningfully. When her son was a freshman at BPHS, she noticed something: every sport seemed to have senior banners proudly displayed at football games—except the marching band. “The other sports teams had senior banners up at every game,” Karen recalls, “and I thought the marching band deserved the same!”

What began as a mission to give marching band seniors their moment in the spotlight has blossomed into a thriving passion. Year after year, Karen has expanded her banner services to include swim, track and field, cross country, and beyond. But the heart of the work remains unchanged: celebrating the athletes and performers who have poured their dedication into their chosen activities.

How It’s Going

The impact of these banners extends far beyond a piece of displayed artwork. Karen witnessed this firsthand when a senior approached her after receiving his banner. “I’ve been waiting four years for this banner!” he said, his face lighting up with genuine excitement and pride.

“They work hard, they deserve to be celebrated,” Karen explains. For many seniors, these banners represent the culmination of years of commitment— early morning practices, late-night competitions, injuries, comebacks, and countless hours of dedication. A senior banner is tangible proof that their effort mattered, that their school sees them, and that their achievements are worth showcasing.

The Technical Artistry Behind the Banners

What sets Karen’s banners apart isn’t just the sentiment—it’s the technical expertise required to bring them to life. Creating professional-quality banners demands sophisticated photography knowledge that many might not consider.

Each banner begins with a portrait session where Karen must demonstrate mastery of lighting and aperture. These aren’t arbitrary choices

but, rather, essential technical decisions that determine the banner’s quality and impact.

Proper lighting ensures the subject is beautifully illuminated while creating clean separation from the background—crucial for the next phase. The correct aperture settings allow Karen to control depth of field, making sure the senior is in perfect focus while creating a clean, workable background that can be removed during editing.

This technical precision is where photography expertise truly shines. Using professional-grade techniques, Karen can completely remove the original background and place the senior’s image onto the custom banner file—resulting in a polished, professional product that looks like it belongs on a stadium wall.

A Legacy of Celebration

Whether it’s marching band, swimming, track, cross country, or any sport in between, Karen’s banners serve the same purpose: recognizing excellence and celebrating the journey. Each banner tells a story of dedication, growth, and achievement.

For seniors looking to commemorate their final year, and for schools wanting to honor their athletes, Karen Presecan Photography delivers not just beautiful images, but meaningful recognition captured with professional skill and heartfelt passion. If you’re looking to honor your student athlete during this special season, call Karen Presecan Photography today!

GROUNDED IN STYLE: F LOORING TRENDS THAT WILL DEFINE 2026

2026 is on the horizon, ushering in a new era for floor design. Homeowners and designers are seeking floors that blend the warmth of nature, harmonious textures, and sustainable materials. Floors will not only be soft and beautiful, but durable and grounded. Let’s look into what the new year’s floor design exudes.

Softness and Warmth

The tone of a floor sets the stage for the home’s overall atmosphere. Cool tones, greys, and bleached woods are giving way to warm, rich tones. Inviting tones like sand, caramel, and honey bring a sense of comfort and luxury. Natural tones work well in both traditional and contemporary spaces. Darker tones of hardwood and luxury vinyl plank will also be featured in 2026 floor fashion. Glossy finishes are out and matte and low-sheen finishes are in, accentuating natural wood grain character.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly

As homeowners seek Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified woods, they are looking for wood that is tracked from the forest to the final product, showing a commitment to sustainable forestry. They are also interested in floors made from recycled materials and those with low-VOC (volatile organic compound) finishes, increasing the indoor air quality.

WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK NK FLOORS FOR BRINGING

Luxury vinyl plank technology is continually evolving, offering water- and scratch-resistance, pet-friendly durability, and a sustainable, durable floor. Unique Design

Now more than ever, floors are becoming canvases. They are statement pieces that exude an artistic presence in the room. A significant style for 2026 is the use of large-format planks and tiles. With fewer seams and joints in the plank pattern, wider, longer planks expand the area. This opens up a room, creating a continuous, seamless appearance with an open-concept feel. Custom design is emerging with exquisite patterns, such as herringbone and chevron in wood floors, and checkerboard with tile. This geometric design and contrast tantalize the eye, creating energy and focal points in an entryway or dining room. Mixed materials in flooring are another trend on the rise, adding contrast. Wood planks are aligned with stone or tile in the entryway-to-kitchen transition. Carpet is used alongside luxury vinyl plank in a game room, or stone is contrasted with wood in a living room to create a natural, earthy vibe.

As 2026 begins, flooring design embraces authenticity, comfort, and creativity. Homeowners choose warm tones, natural materials, and eco-friendly products for beauty and meaning. Every floor tells a story of craftsmanship, sustainability, and personal expression. In the new year, design starts from the ground up.

FROM

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When Courtney and Mike Dorsey first met as student athletes at Portland State University (PSU) in 2006, they had no idea their shared passion for athletics would one day become the foundation of a thriving business in Stafford, Virginia. Courtney ran track while Mike played football, and nearly two decades later, their love of fitness continues to shape not only their careers but their family life with their three children: Easton, 12, Kinsley, 11, and Hadley, 9.

The Dorseys’ connection to the Stafford area runs deep—this is their third time calling it home. Initially drawn by Mike’s orders to MCB Quantico during his career as a Marine Infantry Officer, the Dorseys first arrived in 2008-2010, returned from 2013-2017, and returned for a final PCS in 2022.

“We choose to live here because of the great schools, great community, and the rivers and woods remind us of home,” Courtney explains.

For Courtney, the path to opening Premier Athletics and Fitness was paved with determination and a commitment to lifelong learning. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Communications from PSU after Easton and Kinsley were born, and while pregnant with Hadley. “It was important for me to finish for myself and for my kids to show them anything is possible,” she reflects. That same tenacity led her to obtain her Certified Personal Trainer certification from the National Academy of Sports Medicine and immerse herself in continuing education.

But Premier Athletics and Fitness represents more than just a career change for Courtney—it’s the convergence of all her passions. Before focusing on fitness, she owned a photography business specializing in weddings and natural-light family portraits, a skill she still uses today. “All of our photos in our facility and used on social media are of our actual real clients, taken by me!” she shares enthusiastically. “It’s rewarding to capture our clients’ progression, and I get to combine all the things I love at Premier Athletics – helping people feel confident in themselves, fitness, and photography!”

Mike’s career has been equally impressive. After earning team All-American accolades during his football days, he embarked upon– and recently retired from– a military career that included three deployments, teaching tours, and time as a Recruiting Station Commanding Officer. He holds a Master’s in Military Studies, is NASM CPT certified, and is currently pursuing an MBA at the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business. Education remains a priority in the Dorsey household.

“Being a lifelong learner is important to both of us, and it’s a little easier to have the kids do their homework when they see us studying ourselves,” Courtney notes.

The Dorsey children have each carved out their own interests and talents. Easton, a seventh grader, “loves to learn” and “often is stumping us with information he has researched on any and every

topic,” according to his mother. His favorite sport is football, following in his father’s footsteps. Kinsley, a sixth grader, has discovered a passion for culinary arts. She “finds recipes, ensures we get the ingredients from the store, and is quite the chef,” while also playing middle school volleyball and basketball with dreams of competing at the collegiate level. Third-grader Hadley “is always outside playing with friends” and enjoys reading every night to the family’s menagerie of pets.

Speaking of pets, the Dorsey household is full of furry family: Champ, a two-year-old golden retriever; cats Scout and Montezuma; and three parakeets named Coconut, Kai, and Pickles. Montezuma has proven to be quite the escape artist, having gotten out of the house three times, including a harrowing 10-day adventure during the Texas deep freeze of 2021, four months during Virginia’s winter of 2022, and most recently, an overnight excursion in fall 2025.

Beyond her work at Premier Athletics and Fitness, Courtney remains deeply connected to the community through volunteer work at The Mount, her children’s school PTO, and organizations such as S.E.R.V.E. and Gwyneth’s Gift. “It’s important to me to support our community in as many ways as possible. You never know what somebody has been going through, so if I can make their day a little better, I’m happy to do so,” she says, embodying the spirit of service that defines both her and Mike’s approach to life.

The family has embraced everything Stafford has to offer. “It is great how convenient everything is in the area with kids’ recreational activities, shopping, restaurants, and schools,” Courtney observes. They’re frequent visitors to historic downtown Fredericksburg, where “the shops, the food, the environment is just so awesome,” and they’ve become regular FredNats game attendees. The proximity to Washington, D.C. allows for memorable day trips, while Colonial Beach and Virginia Beach provide easy weekend getaways.

Yet when it comes to vacation destinations, nowhere compares to Portland, Oregon—home for both Courtney and Mike. “It’s so fun to bring the kids to the places where we had our childhood memories – the Oregon Coast, Oregon Zoo, walking around in downtown Portland, spending time outdoors in the beautiful countryside, and most importantly, visiting family,” Courtney shares. “It is fun to bring our kids to campus when we visit home and show them where we met and where we played college sports. Go Viks!”

The Dorsey family’s story is one of dedication—to education, to service, to fitness, and most importantly, to each other and their community. Through both their careers and volunteerism, the Dorseys continue to inspire others while building a legacy that reflects the values they hold dear: hard work, lifelong learning, and the belief that anything is possible.

PUZZLES, BOARD GAMES & THE HOLIDAYS

Cherice Taylor, M.A. Education Administration, is a Part-Time Career Advisor for Germanna Community College. She is the 2022-2023 Past President of the Rotary Club of Stafford and a Charter Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Psi Psi Omega Chapter. She is a relationship builder, poet and a former educator with over 10 years experience at the preschool through high school levels. Cherice earned her Bachelor’s degree from UCLA and her Masters in Education Administration from California State University- Dominguez Hills. She is married to LCDR Eric Taylor (retired) and a mother of four sons. A positive attitude and the belief that sharing pearls of wisdom along with the Golden Rule allows for everyone to improve and reach their personal goals. This is demonstrated in the podcast show that she hosts, Time Matters Podcast! Cherice believes that if we all do better, then we all do better, and that is why Cherice is involved in the community.

The holidays are almost here. The kids will be on break, and our young adults will be home for a bit, too. How do we bring everyone together without getting the side-eye or having someone bow out of family time?

Games! Puzzles! Really? To be honest, I’m not a big fan of puzzles, though I do enjoy some board and card games. I remember playing games with my sister and parents from elementary school through college. Some of our college friends would even come over to our house during breaks to play. It was fun and gave us something to do that didn’t cost money. There are other benefits that puzzles and board games teach. I remember putting puzzles together with one of my very impatient sons when he was four years old. We started with three-piece puzzles and moved to six, nine, twelve, and more. It taught him patience, problem-solving, and how to have fun on his own. It was also fun to hang out together. If I’m being honest, puzzles aren’t really my thing, but I loved hanging out with my son and watching him grow more patient as he worked through them. His Grammy didn’t let him win at chess when he was five, either. Those matches helped him learn patience and strategy.

It really doesn’t matter what age you are. What matters is family time, fun, the benefits of playing board games and puzzles, and the memories shared.

P.S. High School seniors and soon-to-be college graduates, get those applications (you know the ones) sent so you can get back to the family fun.

Happy Holidays!

BEAR RIVER INSTITUTE OF HEALING ARTS: ADVANCING WELLNESS EDUCATION IN FREDERICKSBURG

The Bear River Institute of Healing Arts has officially opened in Fredericksburg, Virginia, marking a significant milestone for professional wellness education in the region. As an institution approved by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV), Bear River brings accredited massage therapy training to a community with a growing demand for holistic healthcare services.

A Vision Rooted in Experience

Founder Linda Osorio brings more than two decades of expertise in massage therapy, yoga, and holistic health to her latest endeavor. Her vision for the institute stems from a recognized gap in the wellness industry: the need for skilled, compassionate practitioners to address the rising levels of stress and disconnection affecting modern society.

“We’ve noticed that many local businesses struggle with having welltrained massage therapy staff, and we want to be the solution,” explains Linda. “As a licensed therapist myself, I understand the layers it takes to help someone feel amazing physically while also giving them space to decompress mentally. Our team is trained to create a safe, grounded environment so clients can truly release stress, reset, and walk away feeling renewed.”

Comprehensive Program Design

Bear River Institute offers a curriculum that combines rigorous academic training with practical application. The program integrates essential components, including anatomy, hands-on bodywork techniques, energy awareness, and professional ethics—all designed to prepare students for state licensure and successful careers in the wellness industry.

Recognizing the diverse needs of prospective students, the institute has implemented several accessibility features:

• Flexible Scheduling: Both day and evening classes accommodate working professionals and those with family commitments

• Bilingual Instruction: Courses are available in English or Spanish, expanding educational opportunities to a broader demographic

• Financial Support: In-house financing options are available for qualifying students, removing financial barriers to career advancement

• Career-Focused Training: The program prepares graduates for a profession that offers both personal fulfillment and strong income potential

Meeting Community Needs

The establishment of Bear River Institute addresses a critical need in the Fredericksburg area. As awareness of holistic health practices continues to grow, demand for licensed massage therapists has increased correspondingly. The institute’s commitment to producing competent, ethical practitioners directly supports both the local wellness industry and community health outcomes.

The curriculum’s emphasis on compassionate care distinguishes Bear River from purely technical training programs. Students learn not only the mechanics of therapeutic massage but also develop the interpersonal skills and professional standards necessary for building successful practices.

A Commitment to Transformation

Bear River Institute positions itself as more than an educational facility—it represents a community-centered approach to wellness education. By combining professional training with a mission of healing and empowerment, the institute aims to create a ripple effect that extends beyond individual graduates to benefit the broader Fredericksburg community.

For those considering a career transition or seeking to enter the growing wellness industry, Bear River Institute of Healing Arts offers an accredited pathway to professional licensure and meaningful work. The institute’s location in Fredericksburg provides local access to quality education previously requiring travel to larger metropolitan areas.

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FAIRY GODMOTHER PROJECT:

When a child receives a cancer diagnosis, the entire family’s world shifts on its axis. Hospital stays, treatment schedules, and medical decisions consume every waking moment, leaving little room for the mundane necessities of daily life. But what if someone could wave a magic wand and take care of some of those burdens? That’s precisely what Fairy Godmother Project does for families navigating the darkest chapter of their lives.

Founded by Andie Ayers and Stephanie Maurer in 2012, Fairy Godmother Project (FGP) takes a unique approach to supporting families facing pediatric cancer. While many organizations focus on the young patients themselves, FGP recognized an often-overlooked truth: when parents are drowning in stress and exhaustion, the entire family suffers.

“Unlike most pediatric cancer organizations, FGP focuses on the parents,” explains Cathleen Pessolano. “Our philosophy is that by reducing their day-to-day burdens through things like house cleaning, meals, and emotional and financial support, we provide these caregivers with more time and less stress, allowing them to support their families during these difficult times better.”

The organization’s origin story is rooted in compassion and lived experience. Through personal connections with families facing pediatric cancer, founder Andie Ayers witnessed a painful pattern. “Andie saw how people often disappeared in their time of need and created FGP to be present and help ease their burdens,” Stephanie shares. Stephanie Maurer complemented this vision by establishing the photography program, connecting families with professional photographers to preserve precious moments during treatment.

Today, FGP’s reach is substantial and growing. The organization currently supports 28 families with children in active treatment, 10 families in their first year of remission, 72 families in survivorship, and-- of utmost importance-- continues to walk alongside 26 families who have experienced the unimaginable loss of a child to cancer. Their support doesn’t end when treatment does; FGP remains a constant presence through remission, survivorship, and bereavement.

The scope of services FGP provides is remarkable. House cleaning services, gas and grocery gift cards, prepared meals, financial assistance, care packages, photography sessions, and emotional support all work together to create a comprehensive safety net. “FGP’s mission is to alleviate the heavy load of families facing all phases of a pediatric cancer diagnosis by taking care of the everyday tasks,” Cathleen emphasizes. “We can’t change the diagnosis, but we can walk alongside them throughout their experience.”

The impact of this support becomes tangible in the stories families share. One FGP mother, whose daughter Cora Jeane was diagnosed at just eight months old with a rare inoperable brain cancer, recently described how the organization became their lifeline through more than two brain surgeries and 42 rounds of chemotherapy.

“We’ll never forget the time our car broke down, and because of the AAA membership that FGP provides, our car was towed and repaired the same day,” the mother recalled. She described how meals would arrive after exhausting hospital stays, exactly when the family had no energy left. “They aren’t just food; they are comfort, care, and love,” she explained. The professional cleaning services provided something

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equally precious during chaos: “Walking into a clean house when your world feels upside down is a gift that’s hard to put into words.”

Perhaps most powerfully, she captured the essence of FGP’s mission in a simple statement: “The truth is, they’ve given us time—the time to simply be with our child, to hold her hand, and to focus on love rather than logistics. For that, there are no words strong enough, but please know our gratitude is endless.”

For the FGP team, these testimonials fuel their work. “Our biggest inspiration is working directly with FGP families,” she says. “Hearing from the parents how support from FGP has truly made a difference in their families and has given them more time with their kids.”

Getting to see the kids connect at events and have fun getting a small reprieve from treatment is also a joy for volunteers and parents alike.

The organization’s approach is profoundly personal. “Everything we do is for our families, and it includes laughs, tears, hugs, and just meeting them wherever they are,” Cathleen notes. This philosophy of meeting families exactly where they are—emotionally, practically, and physically—sets FGP apart from more traditional support organizations.

Community support has been instrumental in FGP’s success, and the organization welcomes continued partnership. Several opportunities to

get involved are on the horizon. December features the Year-End Giving campaign, followed by ticket sales for the Stardust Ball beginning January 23rd, along with numerous other upcoming events and drives. For example, starting in January, community members can sponsor an FGP family through the Community Care Package program, which runs from February through July and involves creating monthly care packages for families.

“We love this community and are so grateful for all of the support that FGP receives from so many local people, organizations, and businesses,” Stephanie says. “We always welcome new partnerships!”

In a world where fairy godmothers exist only in storybooks, Fairy Godmother Project proves that real-world magic is possible. It arrives in the form of a clean home, a warm meal, a full gas tank, and the precious gift of time— time for parents to be present with their children when it matters most. For families navigating pediatric cancer, that’s the most powerful magic of all.

For more information about Fairy Godmother Project or to get involved, visit www.fgpinfo.org.

CHERISHING

As the year winds down and holiday lights begin to twinkle, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the moments and relationships that mean the most. For those of us who share our homes with animals, these quiet moments are often filled with the comforting presence of our pets: the gentle thump of a tail, the soft nudge for a snuggle, the familiar rhythm of paws padding across the floor.

This time of year can bring an even deeper appreciation for our senior companions. Their greying faces and slower steps remind us that life’s most valuable gifts aren’t wrapped in bows. They’re the quiet moments of peace, the daily routines, and the unconditional love we share.

Our own family experienced this in a profound way when we said goodbye to Diesel, our gentle senior Saint Bernard, earlier this year. Losing him left a huge space in our home and hearts, but it also reminded us of how lucky we were to have shared so many wonderful years together. His calm presence and steady heart will always be part of our family’s story.

The Greatest Gift: Presence

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As pets grow older, their needs change. Walks get shorter, naps stretch longer, and they may need more help getting around. What doesn’t change is their desire for comfort and connection. The greatest gift we can give them isn’t material, but our time and attention.

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Taking a few extra minutes to sit quietly together, offering a soft touch, or maintaining familiar routines can bring enormous comfort to an aging pet. Small acts, such as adding a cozy bed for arthritic joints, gentle massage, or acupuncture to ease stiffness, can make all the difference. By focusing on their comfort and well-being, we give them the chance to enjoy each moment with the same loyalty and love they’ve always shown us.

Lessons in Gratitude and Grace

Our pets are natural teachers of gratitude. They greet each morning with enthusiasm, whether it’s to soak up a patch of sunlight or sniff the cold winter air. They remind us to find joy in the simple things and to live fully in the present moment.

When Goodbye Nears

As they age, they show us what grace truly looks like. They don’t dwell on what they’ve lost, whether it’s speed, strength, or sharp hearing. Instead, they adapt with quiet resilience. They continue to love, to trust, and to find contentment in small, beautiful moments. Their message is clear: joy doesn’t have to be loud to be meaningful.

The holidays can feel bittersweet when a pet is nearing the end of life or has recently passed. Navigating grief during a season of celebrations can be difficult, but it’s also a sacred time to honor the bond that remains.

For families facing an impending goodbye, veterinary hospice and palliative care can provide comfort, dignity, and support during those final days. These services allow pets to stay surrounded by familiar love, where every moment can be spent simply being together. Saying goodbye is never easy, but approaching it with compassion and gratitude helps transform loss into an act of love.

After a pet passes, it can help to create small rituals to celebrate their memory: lighting a candle, hanging a photo ornament on the tree, or sharing stories about their quirks and the joy they brought. These gestures keep their spirit close and remind us that love doesn’t end when they’re gone; it simply changes form.

A Season of Love and Reflection

As we welcome a new year, may we carry the lessons our pets teach us daily: to slow down, to savor simple joys, to adapt with grace, and to cherish the time we have with those we love.

In the quiet moments of this season, curled up beside a furry friend or remembering one who’s gone, may we be reminded that the greatest gift we can give is to be present. info@comfortpaws.com

SCPS Bands Band Together Against Hunger

This year, Stafford County Public Schools held the 15th annual Band Together to Fight Hunger fundraiser to support local hunger relief efforts. Proceeds from the event support the SERVE Food Bank and its partner agencies, providing meals to families in need. What began as a small collaboration over a decade ago has grown into one of the county’s most impactful traditions, bringing students, families, and residents together for a night of rhythm, unity, and giving.

Every fall, the combined efforts of schools across Stafford County raise thousands of pounds of food and provide financial support for local food banks. Since its inception in 2010, “Band Together to Fight Hunger” has collected over 100,000 pounds of food, demonstrating the immense power of music to build community and inspire generosity. This year’s event continued that legacy, featuring spirited field performances, a mass band finale, and the joyful energy of hundreds of student musicians performing side by side.

Rax Jumadiao, the lead drumline player for Colonial Forge’s Sound & Guard drumline, played a significant role in leading his band to success with their 2025 field show, “Havana Nights”. “It’s a whole lot of fun to perform such an active and high-energy show,” Rax shared, describing the excitement of leading the percussion section during the county-wide performance. “It felt very special because of the tight-knit community that the bend holds between each school. The music world is very small, so grouping together with fellow instruments to make a section almost four to six times larger than one school would have is definitely a great experience!”

For many musicians, this event marks the close of their marching season—a final showcase of the artistry and discipline they’ve built since the summer. “This event is different because every band really gets together at the end of their competitive season to play their show for the last time,” Rax explained. “It really shows the results of such a rewarding and successful season because, after a very busy ‘Bandtober,’ they finally get to play their shows just for fun for their peers and families one last time.”

As the night unfolded, families filled the stands to cheer for vibrant field shows representing each Stafford high school. The grand finale brought

everyone together for a mass performance of “America the Beautiful,” symbolizing unity among musicians and across the community. “Definitely the first impact of rehearsal and the first run-through of ‘America the Beautiful’ stood out,” Rax recalled. “Hearing a unified 55-person drumline tap off the rest of the bands in the vast parking lot is a pretty neat sight to see, hear, and experience.”

Beyond the music, the greatest joy for many participants is reconnecting with friends from other schools. “My favorite part of the evening was definitely getting to see my friends from other schools again,” Rax said. “We rarely get to see each other since we’re all busy with our own bands, so we really cherish the times we do get to play together and show off the talents and work we’ve put in all season.”

As “Band Together to Fight Hunger” continues to grow, its mission remains clear: to unite the Stafford County community through music, compassion, and service. With every drumbeat, note, and can of food collected, these students remind everyone that even the smallest acts, when performed together, can make a tremendous impact.

Abigail Nyinaku is a senior at Colonial Forge High School. Outside of writing, she enjoys making art, playing the violin, and has a strong passion for legal studies. Abigail is also the current Vice President of her school’s National Honor Society and runs a handmade personalized greeting-card business, called Heartfelt, in her free time.

Acorn Ornament Instructions DIY

Materials:

☐ Acorns (cleaned and dried) ☐ Ribbons

☐ Acrylic paints ☐ Paintbrushes

Directions:

Hot glue gun and glue sticks

Small beads or glitter (optional)

Scissors

1. Prepare the acorns: Wipe them clean and make sure they’re completely dry.

2. Paint: Use bright and festive colors to paint the acorn bottoms. Let them dry.

3. Add sparkle (optional): Brush a little glue and sprinkle glitter.

4. Attach ribbon: Cut a short piece of ribbon, form a loop, and glue it to the top of the acorn cap.

5. Seal (optional): You can brush on clear varnish to make them last longer.

6. Hang and enjoy: Use them to decorate your tree, wreath, or gift packages.

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. Jacob in Korea is now available on Amazon. To purchase a book, visit your local Barnes and Noble and follow Jacob’s story on Instagram @jacob_the_gnome.