Issuu

DECEMBER 2025

EXCLUSIVE MAGAZINE FOR THE RESIDENTS OF FAWN LAKE, ESTATES OF CHANCELLORSVILLE, MINERAL SPRINGS PLANTATION, RIVER JUNCTION, ASHLEY FARMS, CHANCELLORSVILLE CROSSING, CHAPEL HILLS, RIVER BLUFFS, SAWHILL, PIPE RUN, AND MORE! COVER

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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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Dear Neighbors of Chancellorsville!

Publication Team

Have feedback, ideas or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 15th 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

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 McDaniel family and share their multi-generational business story. 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

Resident Feature A Family Legacy: Generations of Building Dreams in Stafford

Expert Contributor Five Common Real Estate Ownership Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Business Profile A Safe Haven for Dogs with Big Feelings

Charity Spotlight Fairy Godmother Project: Giving Families the Gift of Time

Home Improvement Corner Grounded in Style: Flooring Trends That Will Define 2026

Business Profile Celebrating Seniors: The Art of Creating Meaningful Banners Through Photography

Community Pressing “Reset” for the Holidays

High School Highlights Senior Spotlight Feature: Meet Laila Henley

Calendar of Events Upcoming Events December - January

Children’s Author Transforms Everyday Moments into Literary Treasures

Kids Corner DIY Acorn Ornament Instructions

Crissy Hall Executive Assistant to the Publisher

Karie Owens Contributing Writer

Dori Stewart Publisher

Karen Presecan Photographer

Laura Anderson Designer

Mora Soan Contributing Writer

Valynda Phifer Publisher’s Assistant

Liya Zewdu Contributing Writer

Liz Hensel Account Executive

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AUDIOLOGY

Paul D. Kuster, Au.D. | Ascent Audiology and Hearing Fredericksburg 540-709-8865 ascentfxbg.com

AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR

Bradford Jenner | Affordable Automotive 540-710-5400 affordable-automotive.com

DECKS

Mike King | Ray’s Siding 540-710-6864 rayssiding.com

ELECTRIC LAWN SERVICE

Aaron Johnson | Uncle Onion’s Electric, Organic Lawn Care 540-448-8446 uncleonionslawn.com

HEATING AND AIR

Glenn Rohrabacher | Local Heating and Air 540-903-0061 localheatingandairllc.com

HOME CARE

Beata Alghabra, MBA | Synergy HomeCare of Fredericksburg 571-752-2991 fredericksburg.synergyhomecare.com

HOME RENOVATION

Todd Pierpoint | Pierpoint Construction 540-659-8331 pierpointconstruction.com

OUTDOOR LIVING

Paul Gardner

Artscapes, Elf Pros, Ignite Illumination 540-371-2566 artscapespro.com, elfpros.com, igniteillumination.com

PEST CONTROL

Grant Farley | Turbo Pest Control 540-220-8926 turbopest.com

KITCHEN REMODELING

Zach, Matt, and Jake Lethbridge Kitchen Tune-Up Fredericksburg & Stafford 540-779-0301 kitchentuneup.com/fredericksburg-va

PLUMBING

Caleb Newton | Next Level Plumbing 540-645-8844 nextlevelplumbingva.com

REAL ESTATE

NextHome Blue Heron Realty Group 540-328-6408 NextHomeBlueHeron.com

REAL ESTATE, ESTATE PLANNING, ESTATE ADMINISTRATION & PROBATE AND CIVIL LITIGATION

Diana D’Alessandro | D’Alessandro Law PLLC (540) 412-6041 dalessandro.law

ROOFING

Donte Garnette | Monster Roofing and Siding 540-395-9112 monsterroofingllc.com

SEPTIC SERVICE

David Stewart | Dominion Septic 540-737-1008 dominionseptic.com

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FIVE COMMON REAL ESTATE OWNERSHIP MISTAKES

AND HOW TO AVOID

THEM

BY DIANA H. D’ALESSANDRO, ATTORNEY AT LAW

For most people, real estate is the most valuable asset they own. Whether it’s a primary residence, a second home, a rental, or an inherited property, the rules surrounding ownership can get surprisingly complicated. Below are five common mistakes even well-intentioned property owners make:

1. Adding children to the title.

This is, hands down, the most frequent mistake I see. Many parents assume that adding children to the deed now will guarantee a smooth transfer later. What they often don’t realize is that doing so can saddle those children with significant capital gains tax liability when they eventually sell the property.

If your goal is to ensure that your children inherit your property with minimal tax consequences, it is almost always better for them to receive it at your death through a Will, Trust, or, at the very least, a Transfer on Death Deed.

2. Not verifying how marital property is titled.

Married couples can own property as tenants by the entirety with right of survivorship. This form of ownership offers two major advantages: (a) when one spouse dies, the surviving spouse automatically becomes the sole owner, and (b) the property is protected from the creditors of either spouse individually.

If you and your spouse own property together, confirm that your deed uses this exact language. Joint tenants with right of survivorship is not the same. And if you acquired property together before you married, consider updating the deed to reflect your marital status and secure the added protections of tenancy by the entirety.

3. Holding rental property in your personal name.

Rental properties can be excellent investments, but they shouldn’t be owned individually. Holding a rental in your own name exposes all your personal assets if a tenant is injured and sues you successfully. A better approach is to title each rental property in its own limited liability company (LLC). An LLC limits exposure so that only the assets of that LLC, typically the property and its bank account, are at risk. Creating and maintaining an LLC for

this purpose is straightforward, but you must treat it as a separate entity. Leases should list the LLC as landlord, and rent should be deposited into the LLC’s bank account.

4. Buying property with family or friends.

It always sounds simple at the start. But issues can arise when co-owners disagree about selling, improvements, expenses, or usage. Should someone who uses the property more pay more? Are costs always split evenly? What if I want to sell and my co-owners don’t? Any time clients plan to buy property with anyone other than their spouse, I recommend a written co-ownership agreement.

This legally binding document identifies each owner’s rights and responsibilities from day one and, importantly, explains the methods for dissolving the co-ownership arrangement should one owner wish to sell their interest. Without such an agreement, the only way to force a sale is through a partition suit - a court action that can result in either a buyout or a court-ordered sale. Partition suits are expensive and time-consuming, and can be entirely avoided by a well-drafted co-ownership agreement.

5. Allowing property to pass through probate.

Probate is the court-supervised administration of an estate. If you die owning real property in your sole name and you have not designated a beneficiary via a Transfer on Death Deed, that property must be probated. Nothing can be done with the property until the required filings are submitted to the probate office, and probate taxes are paid. Often, this creates delays and imposes a burden on your loved one, but the good news is that it can all be avoided. A living trust or a properly executed and recorded Transfer on Death Deed allows the property to pass directly to your intended beneficiaries without court involvement.

If you believe you’ve made one of these mistakes, we’re happy to review your situation and discuss potential solutions. In most cases, the issues can be corrected with the right paperwork.

Disclaimer: This article provides general legal information. The actions described should not be taken without first consulting your attorney and/ or tax professional.

A Family Legacy: Generations of Building Dreams in Fredericksburg

BY MALLORY HARDGROVE PHOTOS BY KAREN PRESECAN

When Nicole McDaniel was just a small child, she would ride along in the truck with her father, Kevin Parker, picking up trash from job sites while he checked on roofing work and spoke with homeowners. Little did she know those early days would shape not just her career, but her entire life’s trajectory.

“I practiced my math skills by estimating jobs for my dad while he was inspecting the roof,” Nicole recalls. “He would holler measurements down to me and I’d go to the truck to do all of the math while he finished up and loaded ladders.”

Today, at 39, Nicole serves as the driving force behind Kevin’s Roofing, the family business her father started as a teenager. It’s a story that weaves together generations of hard work, dedication, and deep roots in the Stafford community.

Kevin Parker, now 60, began his roofing journey at just 11 years old, working on homes his father built. By his junior year at Stafford Senior High, he was already running his own roofing company, attending school in the mornings and roofing in the afternoons thanks to the school’s split schedule. He married his high school sweetheart, Celina, two years after graduation, and Nicole was born two years after that, followed by her brother, Kevin Aaron Parker.

“Kevin has been the foundation of Kevin’s Roofing and it has changed and evolved into the business it is today,” Nicole says proudly.

PHOTOGRAPHY

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While Kevin built the business across eastern Virginia, Celina pursued her education, earning a Master’s Degree in Teaching Education from UVA. She went on to teach for 30 years in Fairfax and Stafford County, instructing students in physical education, driver’s education, business management, and personal finance. She also coached varsity softball at both Stafford High and Colonial Forge, as well as basketball, track, and field hockey. Celina recently retired from her distinguished teaching career.

Growing up in Stafford and attending Hartwood Elementary, Gayle Middle, and Colonial Forge High School, Nicole was always involved in the family company. In middle school, during the early days of personal computers, she created an estimating spreadsheet for Kevin’s Roofing. “We still use a [now very updated] version of that sheet,” she notes.

By high school, Nicole was working 25 hours a week through the co-op program, running the repair division, while also putting in 20 hours a week at Men’s Wearhouse. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Business Marketing from Longwood University, working in banking during and after college at Woodforest Bank and then PNC.

But fate had other plans. After a robbery at the bank, Nicole, understandably, found herself unsettled about her career path. Her father asked her to return for one year to handle a few company projects, giving her time to figure out, as she puts it, “what I wanted to be when I grew up.”

“It didn’t take long to figure out this was where I belonged,” Nicole says. “We began a 10-year succession plan in 2011, and that has brought us to today.”

That journey has been supported every step of the way by her husband, Nick McDaniel, 39. The couple’s love story began as freshmen at Colonial Forge High School, where they dated briefly before rekindling their romance as juniors. They graduated high school and went off to college together, attending Longwood University, where Nick also earned his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. After graduating, they got engaged and married in 2009 at a Sandals resort in St. Lucia—a destination that remains special to them.

“My mom actually knew him before I did,” Nicole shares. “She was a teacher at AG Wright Middle, where he went to school before CFHS.”

Nick brings his own entrepreneurial spirit to the family, having owned a concrete installation company during

college. He later served as a Telecommunications Officer at Stafford County Sheriff’s Department for 14 years before starting his own property management company two years ago, managing short and long-term rental properties in the area.

Despite their busy professional lives, the McDaniels prioritize community and connection. Nicole serves on the Building and Grounds committee for Fredericksburg Academy and as President of her HOA, and the couple supports as many small businesses as they can. “We’re always looking to help promote small businesses, specifically, those who provide great products and services within our community.”

The couple loves the region they call home. “The Fredericksburg region has a small town feel with big town amenities,” Nicole explains. “I normally run into someone I know when out and about in town.”

When they’re not working, the McDaniels can be found enjoying the water— spending time on the Rappahannock and Potomac rivers or vacationing at their favorite spot, the Outer Banks. They also love exploring the area on foot —walking downtown Fredericksburg — or hitting the gym, where Nicole has developed a passion for yoga.

For Nicole, living in the Fredericksburg area her whole life has never felt limiting. Instead, it’s provided the foundation for building something meaningful: a business, a family legacy, and a life deeply connected to community. From those early days riding in the truck with her dad to leading the family business today, she’s proof that sometimes the best path forward is the one that leads you home.

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A SAFE HAVEN FOR DOGS WITH BIG FEELINGS

BY MALLORY HARDGROVE

In today’s society, anxious or fearful dogs are often misunderstood as “problem pets.” Adia Shanee is changing the story. Her Fredericksburg business, Woof Houze, provides a rare refuge—a trauma-free sanctuary where dogs with big feelings can finally relax.

“I kept meeting dogs who were labeled ‘aggressive,’ ‘stubborn,’ or ‘untrainable.’ In reality, they were scared, overstimulated, or unheard,” Adia explains. After more than two decades working in canine behavior and human-canine relationships, she founded Woof Houze to fill what she saw as a gap in the industry.

What distinguishes Woof Houze is its consent-based handling, slow introductions, and sensory-safe environments—practices rooted in the belief that behavior is communication and big feelings are a language, not a problem. Unlike traditional facilities that may use quick fixes or force, Woof Houze focuses on genuine support and trauma avoidance, an approach rarely found elsewhere.

In addition to trauma-free grooming, lodging, and behavior support, Woof Houze offers unique experiences that reflect its behavior-first approach. Their Academy is a behavior-informed day school. It gives dogs a purposeful, emotionally supportive environment—far from the overstimulation of typical daycare. Dogs spend their days doing sensory work, confidence-building routines, resting, and receiving connection-based guidance. They don’t experience chaotic play.

Woof Houze is also deeply committed to early-life development through its Guided by Growth™ model. Puppies, called Sprouts, are supported during their first stage of life. Gentle social experiences and confidence-nurturing activities help them blossom into secure, grounded adult dogs.

Nature-based offerings round out the Woof Houze ecosystem. The region’s only 24-seat Bark Buz™ takes dogs on supportive adventure outings—Rewilded Roams, BarkVentures, and quiet sniff tours—to help big-feeling dogs navigate the world without overwhelm. Whisper Walks offer a calming option for dogs who struggle in public spaces, helping them return “back to green” while building trust with their guardians.

Inside the facility, there’s even the Rewilded Market, where dogs shop for themselves—literally choosing their own treats and chews based on what their bodies intuitively want.

“One of our favorite moments is when dogs shop for themselves in the Rewilded Market,” Adia shares. “Some walk right in and immediately nose-tap the treat bin they want. Others do a slow sniff tour and ‘approve’ items one by one. And some carry their chosen chew to the register like it’s treasure.”

These moments of canine agency reflect the deeper work happening at Woof Houze. Adia’s inspiration comes from witnessing transformation in dogs who’ve been medicated, shut down, or living in fear. “I love the moment a guardian says, ‘I’ve never seen them this relaxed,’” she says. “Those moments drive everything we do.”

For guardians struggling with anxious or overwhelmed dogs, her message is clear: “There is nothing ‘wrong’ with your dog. They’re not broken. They’re not being dramatic. They’re communicating.”

As a mother, author, and canine behavior specialist, Adia has built Woof Houze with her family deeply involved. Her children participate in the business, and the family’s own dogs serve as the heartbeat of both home and work. The business is deeply rooted in the Fredericksburg community, supporting guardians, rescues, and local pet-friendly events.

Woof Houze stands among the few trauma-free, behavior-informed support centers in the region. Here, dogs enjoy gentle handling, BraveFace muzzle support, behavior-led day school experiences, and a uniquely safe, choice-driven shopping environment. The unwavering mission: “Safe dogs. Supported guardians. Stronger bonds.”

For dogs who feel deeply and the guardians who love them fiercely, Woof Houze offers more than services; it offers understanding, patience, and a place where big feelings are finally welcomed. If you feel your dog has big feelings, you’ve found your people.

If you have a dog with big feelings or just want to learn more about Woof Houze, visit their website, woofhouze.com, send an email to Bark@woofhouze. com, or call 540-456-WOOF for more information.

For dogs with big feelings.

You found your people.

Behavior-informed grooming & coaching for the modern dog. Trauma-free. Consent-based. Connection-centered.

FAIRY GODMOTHER PROJECT: GIVING FAMILIES THE GIFT OF TIME

BY MALLORY HARDGROVE PHOTOS COURTESY OF FGP

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

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services provided something 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.

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GROUNDED IN STYLE: FLOORING TRENDS THAT WILL DEFINE 2026

BY KARIE OWENS PHOTOS COURTESY OF NK FLOORS

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. Luxury vinyl plank technology is con-

tinually 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.

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

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CELEBRATING SENIORS: THE ART OF CREATING MEANINGFUL BANNERS THROUGH

PHOTOGRAPHY

How It Started

BY MALLORY HARDGROVE

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!

PHOTOS BY KAREN PRESECAN PHOTOGRAPHY

PRESSING “RESET” FOR THE HOLIDAYS

BY KARIE OWENS

That time of year is upon us. The Christmas trees and splashes of jubilee fill the shopping centers, while pumpkins intermingle with an impending sugar plum fairy takeover. Holiday cheer is rushed in with the ever-familiar cacophony of chaos. The calendar explodes with school parties, work parties, and family gatherings. Checklists, gift lists, food lists, and to-dos galore! Where has the peace gone from November through January?

How do we slow down and enjoy the holiday season with those who matter most? Could it be time to press “reset” for the holidays?

Reset with gratitude. The “G” vitamin is one of the best ways to rewire the brain and to increase positive body biochemistry. Holiday months can be stressful, but practicing gratitude helps decrease the body’s stress hormone, cortisol, and increases the “feel good” neurotransmitters, dopamine and serotonin. Anxiety wanes as gratitude is put into practice. Keep a gratitude journal, listing people, things, and moments you are thankful for. Express thankfulness and admiration to those around you. Be mindful of ways to show appreciation. Self-focus can be draining, but focusing on others and their blessings brings joy.

Reset priorities. Why do we celebrate the holidays? Think about your “why.” Arrange them in order of importance, from most to least. Is your holiday directed by faith, family, friends, connection, or traditions? If so, foster interactions and activities with your top priorities in mind. If traditions no longer align with your priorities, create new ones. Give your time and energy to your biggest “whys.” If events, places, and people drain your energy and joy, consider avoiding them or limiting the time you spend with them. Assessing priorities is about gaining quality and deeper, meaningful connections.

Reset expectations. Unarguably, holidays come with a set of expectations. The gifts, food, parties, and events are all pushing to be bigger, better, and more amazing than [fill in the blank] last year. What if there were no expectations? What if the holidays were a blank piece of paper this year, an open script for you to rewrite your experience with no pressure, no expectations, just time for memories? What if you gave without expecting a gift in return, not hoping to receive one thing, but to be a blessing and be present in the moment? Tell a loved one that they are the gift. People just long to know that they are valued. Write a letter, and don’t wait to say what you want to say. Write a song, hold a hand, hug, and forgive. Reset to what is truly important, and let go of the temporal. Expect nothing, and be ready to receive the true gift of giving.

Do you need a fresh perspective before the festive season begins? Reset with gratitude, assess priorities, and adjust expectations. Doing so will revolutionize your mentality, relationships, and memories this holiday.

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT FEATURE: MEET LAILA HENLEY

BY LIYA ZEWDU PHOTO COURTESY OF LAILA HENLEY

Liya Zewdu is a sophomore at Riverbend High School. She actively contributes to the school newspaper, with a focus on highlighting student perspectives and advocating for change. Liya also plays a key role in supporting students in special education through a basketball program, showing her commitment to inclusivity and teamwork. A proud member of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and the Junior Council for Cancer Kids First, Liya is deeply involved in her school community. Outside of her academic and extracurricular pursuits, she enjoys watching anime, reading books, exploring the outdoors, and spending quality time with family and friends. Liya aspires to pursue a career in Journalism, driven by her love for storytelling and creating meaningful connections through writing.

Laila Henley, a dedicated and hardworking senior, has made the most of her time at Riverbend High School. From sports and clubs to academics and leadership, Henley’s high school journey exemplifies balance, growth, and passion.

Henley started her freshman year exploring her interests and discovering what she wanted to pursue. Over the years, she developed a passion for business and marketing by joining organizations such as Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA), while also participating in sports like lacrosse.

“In ninth grade, I tried everything so that as I went through the years, I could narrow it down to what I really liked,” Henley said. “I found myself drawn to business and marketing, so I joined FBLA and DECA and stuck with the activities that made me happiest.”

Balancing sports, academics, and extracurriculars wasn’t easy for Henley at first. She explained how she learned to manage her time wisely over the years.

“It was like school, sports, homework, sleep, like constantly. I didn’t know how to deal with that cycle at first,” she explained. “But by senior year, I learned time management and how to say no to certain things, focusing on what I truly love and enjoy doing.”

Henley has advice for both upperclassmen and underclassmen struggling with time management.

“Keep a calendar or agenda, it helps so much,” she said. “A lot of times, when you’re stressed, it’s because you’ve said yes to too many things. Learning to prioritize what really matters makes a big difference.”

Henley’s athletic journey has been an important part of her high school career. She first started playing lacrosse when her middle school teacher, who happened to be the high school coach, encouraged her to try out.

“I’ve been playing varsity since ninth grade, and it’s been so much fun,” Henley said.

Beyond her extracurricular activities, Henley is highly involved in her academics. She has always prioritized her studies and made good impressions on her teachers.

“I love learning, and I’m always asking questions,” Henley said. “Not everyone gets the chance to go to school, so even though waking up early isn’t fun, I see it as a privilege.”

After high school, Henley plans to major in business administration or management, with additional interest in human resources and international business. She has taken six years of Spanish, including AP Spanish currently, and hopes to combine her passion for language and culture with her business goals.

“I’ve always loved Spanish and the culture, I want to bring that love into the business world and explore international business opportunities,” Henley said.

Henley has already applied to several universities, including Virginia Tech, JMU, and University of Virginia, and is hoping to apply to more such as UNC Chapel Hill and a few in Pennsylvania.

“It doesn’t really matter where I end up as long as it feels like the right fit and helps me grow in the field I love.”

As Henley prepares to graduate and move forward from her high school career, she leaves behind a legacy of hard work, leadership, and enthusiasm. Whether in the classroom or on the field, she continues to thrive.

December - January Upcoming Events

WEEKLY EVENTS

EVERY TUESDAY

Music Bingo

@Barley Naked Brewing Co. Time: 6- 8pm 15 Tech Pkwy. Stafford, VA 22556

MULTIPLE DAY EVENTS

FRI., DEC. 5- SUN., DEC. 7

Holiday Craft Show

@Fredericksburg Convention Center

SAT., DEC. 6

FXBG Winter Wine Festival

@Fredericksburg Fairgrounds

Time: 11am- 4pm 2400 Airport Ave. Fredericksburg, VA 22407

SAT., DEC. 6

Fredericksburg Christmas Parade

@Downtown Fredericksburg

Time: 5:30pm

Princess Anne & Caroline Streets Fredericksburg, VA 22401

FRI., DEC. 12

2025 Happy “Paw”lidays

@Dorothy Hart Community Center

Time: 5- 7pm

408 Canal St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

SAT., DEC. 13

Frosty 5K & Reindeer Run

@Jeff Rouse Center

Time: 9am Race Starts 1600 Mine Rd. Stafford, VA 22554

SAT., DEC. 13

Winter Kids’ Market

@Dorothy Hart Community Center

Time: 9am- 2pm 408 Canal St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

SAT., DEC. 13

Eden Try Holiday Market

@Eden Try Winery

Time: 12- 5pm 6818 River Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22407

THURS., DEC. 18

Monthly Open Pinball Tournament

@Reclaim Arcade

Time: 6:30- 10:30pm 2324 Plank Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

TUES., DEC. 23

Festivus… For the Rest of Us @Adventure Brewing Company Time: 6pm

33 Perchwood Dr. Fredericksburg, VA 22405

THURS., JAN. 1

First Day Hike

@Motts Run Reservoir

Time: 9am- 3pm 6600 River Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22407

EVERY WEDNESDAY

Trivia with Trapper

@6 Bears & A Goat Brewing Company Time: 7pm 1140 International Pkwy. Fredericksburg, VA 22406

EVERY WEDNESDAY

Adventure Jeopardy

@Adventure Brewing Company Time: 7:30- 9pm 33 Perchwood Dr. Fredericksburg, VA 22405

EVERY FRIDAY

Free Music Friday

@Red Dragon Brewery Time: 6:30pm 1419 Princess Anne Street Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Time: Varies 2371 Carl D. Silver Pkwy Fredericksburg, VA 22401

THURS., DEC. 11- SAT., DEC. 13

This Town: A Caroling ShowDickens Christmas

@Spotsylvania Mall Food Court Time: 4- 5pm

137 Spotsylvania Mall Fredericksburg, VA 22407

NOW THRU SAT., DEC. 20

Concert in Lights

@The Village Time: 6- 9pm (Show starts at the top of each hour)

137 Spotsylvania Mall Fredericksburg, VA 22407

NOW THRU SUN., DEC. 28

White Christmas- The Musical @Riverside Center for the Performing Arts

Various Times

95 Riverside Parkway Fredericksburg, VA 22406

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.

CHILDREN’S AUTHOR

TRANSFORMS EVERYDAY MOMENTS INTO LITERARY TREASURES

BY MALLORY HARDGROVE

PHOTOS COURTESY OF JACQUELENE D’AMICO & KAREN PRESECAN PHOTOGRAPHY

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,

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

Carrell Blanton Ferris

Acorn Ornament Instructions DIY

BY MORA SOAN, AUTHOR OF THE SERIES: ADVENTURES OF JACOB THE GNOME

Materials:

☐ Acorns (cleaned and dried)

☐ Ribbons

☐ Acrylic paints

☐ Paintbrushes

☐ Hot glue gun and glue sticks

☐ Small beads or glitter (optional)

☐ Scissors

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.