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From the Starting Line to Home Base: HOW ONE MILITARY FAMILY FOUND THEIR STRIDE IN SPOTSYLVANIA

PHOTO BY KAREN PRESECAN PHOTOGRAPHY

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Welcome to the July issue of Spotsylvania Living!

Summer is heating up and so are our happenings here in Spotsylvania.

There’s so much to do, see, and explore in our area, and we welcome the opportunity to bring you events and stories each month.

Publication Team

Dori Stewart Publisher

Mallory Hardgrove Content Coordinator

This month, we’re proud to feature the Czarnecki family. Brooke, Isaac, and their two boys have truly hit their stride here and embraced everything the area has to offer. We’re also excited to showcase showstoppers from STEP VA. Learn about this inclusive organization and more in the pages ahead.

Crissy Hall

Executive Assistant to the Publisher

As always, we want to thank our sponsors who allow us to bring you the good news each month.

Happy reading,

Mallory Hardgrove FXBGNeighbors

Valynda Phifer

Publisher’s Assistant

FXBGNeighbors

bestversionmedia.com/va/spotsylvanialiving

Erica Chancey Designer

TABLE OF CONTENTS Karen Presecan Photographer

Liya Zewdu

Contributing Writer

Karie Owens

Contributing Writer

Stephanie Cox

Contributing Writer

10

Resident Feature From the Starting Line to Home Base: How One Military Family Found Their Stride in Spotsylvania

Advertising Contact: Dori Stewart doristewart@bestversionmedia.com | 540-288-7928

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

Content Submission Deadlines Content Due:........................................................Edition Date: January 10.....................................................................February February 10.........................................................................March March 10................................................................................ April April 10................................................................................... May May 10................................................................................... June June 10...................................................................................July July 10............................................................................... August August 10................................................................... September September 10..................................................................October October 10....................................................................November November 10............................................................... December December 10...................................................................January

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05 06 07 08 12 15 16 18

Expert Contributor Transfer on Death Deeds: A Simple Tool That Can Help Families Avoid Probate Business Profile Arbor Tech: A Trusted Name in Tree Care Across Virginia Home Improvement Corner Buy Once, Buy Right: How to Choose Flooring That Stands the Test of Time Charity Spotlight Where the Stage Belongs to Everyone: The Story of STEP VA Pet Corner Snake Season: What Every Pet Owner Needs to Know Calendar of Events Upcoming Events July-August High School Highlights Class of ‘28 Starts the Recruiting Process Kids Corner from the Book The Story of America’s Birthday

By Patricia A. Pingry J ULY 2026 | 3

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Expert Contributors

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REAL ESTATE, ESTATE PLANNING, ESTATE ADMINISTRATION & PROBATE AND CIVIL LITIGATION Diana D’Alessandro | D’Alessandro Law PLLC (540) 412-6041 dalessandro.law

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Patrick Wade | Arbor Tech Tree & Landscaping Service 540-522-6103 arbortechva.com

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TRANSFER ON DEATH DEEDS: A SIMPLE TOOL THAT CAN HELP FAMILIES AVOID PROBATE

BY DIANA D’ALESSANDRO, ATTORNEY-AT-LAW

For many homeowners, one of the primary estate planning goals is simple: make things easier for family members after death. In recent years, one estate planning tool has gained popularity for accomplishing exactly that goal — the Transfer on Death Deed, often called a “TOD Deed.”

A Transfer on Death Deed allows a property owner to designate who will inherit real estate automatically upon the owner’s death, without the need for probate. While the concept is straightforward, the decision to use a TOD Deed deserves careful consideration because, like any estate planning tool, it offers both advantages and limitations.

What is a Transfer on Death Deed?

A Transfer on Death Deed is a legal document that allows a real estate owner to name one or more beneficiaries to receive the property upon the owner’s death. During the owner’s lifetime, the owner retains full control of the property.

The designated beneficiary has no ownership rights while the owner is alive. The deed does not become effective until the owner’s death, and importantly, it can generally be revoked or changed at any time before then. Once the owner dies, the beneficiary becomes the new owner of the property by operation of law and, once a death certificate is in hand, the beneficiary can dispose of the property – outside of probate.

Why are TOD Deeds Popular?

The primary appeal of a TOD Deed is probate avoidance. Probate can be time-consuming, slow,

and expensive depending on the circumstances of the estate. A TOD Deed allows real estate to pass outside of the probate process, often simplifying the transfer to heirs.

incapacity planning. Also, if you designate multiple beneficiaries to inherit the property together, disagreements may arise after your death regarding whether to sell, retain, or maintain the property.

Other advantages include:

A TOD Deed may work well for:

1.

Simplicity. TOD Deeds are generally easier and less expensive to prepare than creating and funding a trust. You can expect to pay around $400 for a Transfer on Death Deed.

•

Retention of control. The owner keeps full ownership rights during life and may sell, refinance, or revoke the deed at any time.

•

2.

3.

No immediate gift. Because the beneficiary has no present ownership interest, the transfer generally does not constitute a completed gift during the owner’s lifetime.

4.

No delays. Upon the death of the owner, the beneficiary designated in a TOD Deed becomes the owner by operation of law and can typically dispose of the property once a death certificate is in hand.

For individuals with straightforward estates, a TOD Deed can be an efficient planning tool.

Despite their benefits, however, TOD Deeds are not appropriate in every situation. One common misconception is that a TOD Deed eliminates the need for broader estate planning. In reality, a TOD Deed governs only the specific property described in the deed. It does not address bank accounts, investments, personal property, tax planning, or

•

Individuals with a single residence and simple distribution wishes; Owners seeking a low-cost probate avoidance option; or Situations where minimal ongoing administration is desired.

Final Notes: Transfer on Death Deeds have become an increasingly valuable estate planning option for many homeowners. When properly used, they can simplify the transfer of real estate, reduce probate complications, and provide peace of mind. At the same time, TOD Deeds are not a substitute for a comprehensive estate plan. The most effective planning occurs when all assets, family dynamics, and long-term goals are considered together. For homeowners considering probate avoidance strategies, a discussion with an experienced estate planning attorney can help determine whether a Transfer on Death Deed is the right fit.

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

PRACTICE AREAS

Real Estate • Estate Planning • Estate Administration & Probate • Civil Litigation

Diana D’Alessandro | D’Alessandro Law PLLC

Central Park Corporate Center 1320 Central Park Blvd., #200 • Fredericksburg, VA 22401 MEETINGS ARE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

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(540) 412-6378

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Business Profile

Their crew specializes in handling challenging projects, particularly oversized or compromised trees that require exceptional skill and precision. As highlighted on their website, Arbor Tech focuses on dismantling large trees safely while protecting the surrounding landscape. Being fully licensed and insured gives customers peace of mind, especially for work that involves heights, heavy equipment, and potentially dangerous conditions.

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When it comes to keeping your property safe, beautiful, and well-maintained, having a reliable tree service is essential. For homeowners across Virginia, Arbor Tech Tree & Landscaping Service, LLC has become a trusted local partner. Based in Richardsville, this family-operated company has earned a reputation for professionalism, safety, and high-quality tree care.

Expertise You Can Count On Arbor Tech brings years of hands-on experience to every job, supported by a team that includes certified arborists with formal training. These professionals understand the science behind tree health, structure, and long-term care— knowledge that is especially important when evaluating hazardous trees or determining the safest approach for removal.

A Strong Community Reputation What truly sets Arbor Tech apart is the praise it receives from local customers.

Reviews on their website describe the crew as efficient, respectful, and exceptionally careful with surrounding plants and structures. Many clients note how smoothly projects run, even when tackling difficult or dangerous removals.

Their excellent standing extends beyond customer comments. Arbor Tech holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, a reflection of consistent professionalism and dependable service. Clients frequently highlight owner Patrick Wade’s strong communication and his team’s commitment to getting each job done right the first time.

Because they are fully licensed and insured, homeowners can feel confident knowing their property is protected throughout the entire process.

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With certified arborists on staff, homeowners also benefit from educated assessments, proper pruning techniques, and guidance on maintaining longterm tree health. This combination makes Arbor Tech a one-stop solution for both the safety and appearance of residential properties.

Safety Comes First Tree care is a technical and potentially hazardous line of work—one that requires training, proper equipment, and strict safety protocols. Arbor Tech’s certified arborists and trained crew approach each project with meticulous care. Hazardous limbs are controlled and lowered safely, trees are removed section by section when needed, and every step is taken to avoid damage to nearby structures or landscaping.

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Local Knowledge, Local Care Serving central Virginia from their Richardsville base, Arbor Tech offers deep local expertise. Their team understands the region’s trees, soils, climate, and seasonal challenges—knowledge that helps them assess risks accurately and recommend the most effective solutions for each property.

Why Arbor Tech Stands Out • Certified arborists with formal, professional training • Local expertise and hands-on experience • Full-service tree and shrub care • A+ BBB rating and strong community reviews • Licensed, insured, and deeply safety-focused • Friendly, communicative customer service Reliable, Professional, and Community-Focused For homeowners in Virginia seeking dependable tree care, Arbor Tech Tree & Landscaping Service, LLC offers a blend of skill, reliability, and genuine community values. Whether you’re managing a hazardous tree, preparing your yard for a new season, or refreshing your landscape, Arbor Tech is a local business you can trust with your home, your safety, and your peace of mind.

© Best Version Media BUY ONCE, BUY RIGHT:

Home Improvement Corner

HOW TO CHOOSE FLOORING THAT STANDS THE TEST OF TIME

BY KARIE OWENS

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY NK FLOORS

We’ve all heard the saying, “Buy cheap, buy twice.”

When it comes to flooring, that couldn’t be more true.

Floors are one of the hardest-working surfaces in your home, quietly enduring foot traffic, furniture, spills, pets, and the general chaos of everyday life. Choosing the right floor from the start isn’t just a design decision, it’s a long-term investment in your home.

Hardwood: The Long Game When people talk about flooring that lasts, hardwood always comes up, and for good reason. A well installed, properly maintained hardwood floor can last fifty to one hundred years. What makes it truly unique for the long term is that it can be sanded and refinished multiple times, giving it a brand new lease on life whenever it starts to show its age. Hardwood doesn’t love excess moisture, so it’s best kept out of bathrooms and laundry rooms. In living areas, hallways, and bedrooms, it’s one of the best long-term investments you can make in your home.

Luxury Vinyl Plank: The Practical Powerhouse LVP has taken the flooring world by storm. A quality LVP product offers durability, typically rated for 20 to 30 years, while being waterproof, scratch-resistant, and much more forgiving in wet or high-traffic areas. For families with kids, pets, or just a busy household, LVP delivers peace of mind without sacrificing style. It won’t last quite as long as hardwood, but it requires far less maintenance and holds up beautifully under real-world conditions.

Tile: Built to Outlast Everything If longevity is your number one priority, tile deserves serious consideration. Porcelain tile in particular is extraordinarily durable and it’s not unusual for a welllaid tile floor to last the entire lifetime of a home. It’s impervious to moisture, resistant to scratches, and incredibly easy to clean. The trade-off is comfort.

The tile can feel hard and cold underfoot. In kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways, it’s almost unbeatable for long-term performance.

Carpet: Choose Wisely Carpet is the most comfortable underfoot but generally the shortest-lived flooring option, typically lasting 10 to 15 years depending on quality and traffic. If you want carpet, invest in a higher-grade product with a quality underlay. It makes a significant difference in how long it holds up and how good it continues to feel underfoot.

The floors that last longest are the ones chosen thoughtfully, matched to the room, the lifestyle, and the level of care. A slightly larger investment upfront almost always pays off over time.

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Charity Spotlight

© Best Version Media Monroe and two colleagues—a physical and an occupational therapist—saw the effect of simple accommodations when a weighted bear helped a young girl participate in a musical. Inspired, they launched STEP VA to extend that impact to the broader community.

WHERE THE STAGE BELONGS TO EVERYONE:

Today, STEP VA serves around 100 participants and their families, and its annual Musical Experience draws over 800 attendees. In April, performers with disabilities starred in Shrek the Musical, Jr., they are as capable as I know they are. When I witness that happen, it’s truly magical.” affirming that the stage belongs to everyone.

THE STORY OF STEP VA

BY MALLORY HARDGROVE PHOTOS PROVIDED BY STEP VA

In performing arts, people with disabilities often face daunting barriers that include sensory overload, limited access, and few accommodations.

Jan Monroe and her co-founders saw these not as obstacles, but as opportunities. In 2013, they created STEP VA, an organization promising “Sensory + Theatre = Endless Possibilities.”

Monroe, a pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist, didn’t set out to run a nonprofit. She was simply answering a question she kept hearing from parents at her outpatient clinic. “I was often asked by parents what summer activities were available in the arts for children with disabilities,” she recalls. The answer, too often, was: not many.

“All people can be heard, seen, and have an avenue of self-expression when participating in artistic activities regardless of their abilities or disabilities,” Monroe explains. “The arts at a foundational level bridge the gaps between our perceived and real differences.” STEP VA’s programs are built on this philosophy, emphasizing collaboration, teamwork, and self-advocacy while celebrating what makes each participant unique.

Looking ahead, STEP VA has a full calendar for those interested in getting involved. This summer, participants ages 8 and up can join several camps: Tech Camp, focusing on behind-the-scenes production experience, takes place in June; Arts Camp, which explores a variety of artistic activities, also runs in June; and A STEP Beyond, an Adult Arts Camp, is scheduled for July.

For Monroe, these moments are everything. “My greatest inspiration through STEP VA and what brings me the most joy is watching an individual or group of individuals with disabilities overcome a challenge or fear,” she says. “I want them to believe

what is possible,” she says. “That is how we continue to grow and change perceptions about people with disabilities in our community.”

On the fundraising front, STEP VA’s fall gala will be held on September 25, 2026, at the Old Silk Mill.

During the 2025 Finding Nemo, Jr. dress rehearsal, The evening features networking opportunities a leak caused buckets to scatter across the stage— for businesses and community leaders, as well particularly challenging for the sensory-sensitive as highlights of STEP VA’s work with performers. cast. Yet, performers, ages 9 to 32, donned Sponsorships are available for organizations ponchos and carried on, demonstrating resilience interested in supporting programs that benefit despite adversity. participants and boost community engagement. More It’s exactly the kind of moment that encapsulates information about events, fundraising efforts, and STEP VA’s beloved internal motto. “Expect the camp specifics can all be found at www.stepva.org. unexpected,” Monroe says with obvious pride. “It Monroe is also quick to extend an open invitation helps everyone to be more flexible when working to anyone who hasn’t yet experienced what STEP through challenges or things out of their control.” VA offers firsthand. “I would like to challenge all That night in 2025, Just Keep Swimming became magazine readers to take it a ‘STEP’ further and more than a song from the show — it became a attend a STEP VA performance, showcase, or invite testament to what these performers are capable of. us to perform at one of your events — to witness

The possibilities, as their name suggests, are truly endless.

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Don't miss your chance to make a difference: register for summer camps, purchase tickets to the fall gala, or get involved in other ways at www.stepva.org. Your participation helps create endless possibilities for performers of all abilities.

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Resident Feature

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From the Starting Line to Home Base: HOW ONE MILITARY FAMILY FOUND THEIR STRIDE IN SPOTSYLVANIA

BY MALLORY HARDGROVE PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAREN PRESECAN PHOTOGRAPHY

By the time Brooke Czarnecki laces up her running shoes each evening, she has already managed a life that would exhaust most just to read about. At 28, she is a Registered Dietitian with a thriving practice, mother of a spirited toddler and a baby, wife to an active-duty soldier, and has called Georgia, Alaska, Missouri, Kentucky, and now Virginia home—all in just a few years. Yet, if you ask her, she sounds not like someone catching her breath, but like someone hitting her stride.

Brooke and her husband, Isaac, both 28, are not just a military family—they are a love story that began before they could drive. “Isaac is my high school sweetheart,” Brooke says. “Our first memories together are from track and cross country meets in middle and high school.” Decades later, the two athletes are still running—literally and figuratively—side by side.

Their most memorable adventure together came early in their military life, when the Army sent them north in the most dramatic way possible. “One of my favorite memories with him is our drive from Georgia to Alaska during COVID,” Brooke recalls. “It was our first military move together, and the drive was absolutely amazing.” They made that trek with Dalton, their then six-month-old Golden Retriever, who has since become one of the most well-traveled dogs in America. Rounding out the fur family is Marsha, a four-year-old rescue cat from Alaska who, in true cat fashion, has won over the one household member who was least enthusiastic about her arrival. “Isaac wasn’t thrilled about us getting a cat,” Brooke admits with a laugh, “but now Isaac is Marsha’s favorite person.”

The family arrived in the Lancaster Gate subdivision in 2024, and Brooke has wasted no time putting down roots. What drew them to the area was the military 10 | SPOT SYLVA N I A LI VI N G

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assignment, but what made them stay — in spirit, at least — is something deeper.

“We really hope to settle in Virginia,” she says. “It feels the most like home, but without the harsh winters. We are definitely East Coasters at heart.” For a family originally from upstate New York, the mid-Atlantic climate and culture strike just the right balance between familiar and fresh.

Their neighborhood, quiet and spacious on the outskirts of Fredericksburg, suits their lifestyle perfectly. “We love that our neighborhood is just outside the hustle and bustle of Fredericksburg, but we can still get to downtown and fun events with a quick drive,” Brooke explains. When date nights do happen, the couple has a clear favorite destination: FoodE, their go-to restaurant in Fredericksburg, where good food and a night out from two small children feels like a small luxury well-earned.

At home, life revolves around Jude and Henry, who are two very different boys.

Jude, who will turn three in August, is passionate about Lightning McQueen, farm animals, noodles, trucks, tractors, and anything with big wheels or heavy machinery; he even helps his dad “dig” and tend to their garden. Ten-month-old Henry has simpler needs. “Henry adores his older brother,” Brooke says, “and can’t wait until he can keep up– he’s always smiling and chasing him around the house.”

Brooke’s professional life reflects the same precision and dedication she brings to everything else. A graduate of the Rochester Institute of Technology with a bachelor’s degree in dietetics and nutrition, she completed her clinical training at the Cleveland Clinic and passed her credentialing exam in July 2020. She launched her private practice almost immediately — and it took off faster than she expected. “I started my business right after my credentialing exam and haven’t looked back since,” she says. Her clinical work has spanned eating disorder recovery, sports nutrition for athletes ranging from runners to

gymnasts, and support for postpartum mothers (a population she now understands from the inside out)-- and she sees every age from teens all the way up to perimenopause/menopausal women.

That personal connection to her clients is not incidental. Brooke ran at the collegiate level in both cross country and track, serving as team captain her senior year, and she describes herself as a lifelong runner. Now, as she navigates her second postpartum return to running, she brings both professional expertise and lived experience to the women she serves. It is a combination that has made her practice stand out.

Her community involvement has grown quickly since settling in Spotsylvania.

She joined the local Chamber of Commerce in December 2025, eager to connect with the business community she plans to be part of for years to come. She is also the official dietitian for Sweat Like a Mother (S.L.A.M.) Quantico, a fitness community for local moms that has become a genuine source of personal sustenance. “Being a part of this community has been a huge blessing for my mental health,” she shares. “We are a super friendly bunch and are always looking for new mamas to join us.” In 2026, she plans to plug into local running groups as well, adding another thread to the fabric of the community life she is actively and intentionally building.

When the Czarneckis need a real break, they visit a family camp in the Adirondacks. It’s the kind of place that needs no explanation for those who know where to go to relax and enjoy a reprieve in the midst of a busy life.

After years of moves and milestones, Brooke Czarnecki seems to have found something rarer than a perfect neighborhood or great restaurant: the feeling of being exactly where she belongs.

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If you’ve ever walked a trail along the Rappahannock or let your dog off-leash in a brushy backyard here in the Fredericksburg area, you’ve likely shared that space with a copperhead without knowing it. July marks the peak of copperhead activity in our region, and because these snakes are masters of camouflage, encounters often happen in an instant. Rather than letting that knowledge keep you indoors, a little preparation goes a long way.

Spotting the Camouflage Copperheads are built to disappear into leaf litter and rocky soil, which is exactly why off-leash dogs on wooded trails are at particular risk. Here’s how to recognize one from a safe distance: • Markings: Look for the classic hourglass or dark brown “Hershey’s Kiss” pattern along their sides.

• Head shape: A broad, triangular head distinctly wider than the neck.

• Eyes and pits: Vertical, cat-like pupils and heatsensing pits located between the eye and nostril.

What the Venom Does

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Copperhead venom is a complex mix that attacks both local tissue and the circulatory system. At the bite site, it breaks down cell walls and blood vessels, causing rapid swelling, bruising, and intense pain.

Systemically, it can disrupt the body’s clotting ability, depleting the platelets responsible for stopping bleeding and putting pets at risk for internal bleeding and shock. This is why time matters so much.

If You Suspect a Bite Dogs explore with their nose, so bites most often land on the muzzle, face, or front legs. Watch for sudden, dramatic swelling, visible fang marks, and signs of pain. If you suspect a bite: • Keep Calm and Restrict Movement: Carry your pet to the car if possible. Keeping them quiet slows the spread of the venom.

• Head Straight to the ER Vet: Call the emergency hospital while en route so the medical team can prepare for your arrival.

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• Leave the Wound Alone: Do NOT apply a tourniquet, cut the wound, suck out venom, or apply ice. These old myths concentrate the venom and cause significantly more tissue damage.

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• Don’t Try to Catch or Kill the Snake: A

12 | SPOT SYLVA N I A LI VI N G

photo from a safe distance is helpful; a second bite is not.

What to Expect at the ER Every snakebite is different, but treatment generally centers on four things: fast-acting pain relief, IV fluid support to protect organ function and counter shock, blood and clotting panels to monitor the venom’s internal effects, and antivenin to neutralize and limit further progression. Because antivenin is delivered as a slow, carefully monitored infusion and patients need continuous evaluation, most snakebite cases require an overnight hospital stay.

Create a Snake-Resistant Yard Preventing an encounter entirely is the ultimate goal. Making simple landscape modifications can significantly reduce the likelihood of a copperhead setting up camp on your property: • Keep it Clipped: Maintain a short lawn. Tall grass provides excellent cover for snakes and the small rodents they hunt.

• Clear the Clutter: Remove brush piles, logs, and leaf litter. Store firewood off the ground and away from the house.

• Rethink Your Border: Consider creating a wide border of gravel or heavy mulch between wooded areas and your lawn. Snakes dislike crossing wide, open spaces where they are vulnerable to predators.

• Manage the Food Chain: Keep outdoor trash cans sealed and clean up spilled birdseed to avoid attracting rodents (snake food).

The Good News A snakebite is a genuine emergency, but the outlook with prompt care is excellent. Copperhead venom is considerably less potent than that of rattlesnakes, and pets who reach an ER quickly almost always recover fully. Knowing what to do in those first few minutes is the difference that matters most. By blending a little backyard prevention with swift medical action, you can safely navigate snake season and enjoy everything summer has to offer.

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Calendar of Events

Upcoming Events MON., JULY 6 Preschool Palette @Gari Melchers Home and Studio Time: 10- 11am 224 Washington St. Falmouth, VA 22405 SAT., JULY 11 Cars & Coffee @Gari Melchers Home and Studio Time: 8- 11am 224 Washington St. Falmouth, VA 22405

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July- August SAT., JULY 11 Kids Story TimeSecond Saturday @Tales & Tails Time: 10- 11am 1010 Charles St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

SAT., JULY 11 Hot Girl Summer… and Boys Too @Eden Try Winery Time: 5- 9pm 6818 River Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22407

SAT., JULY 11 Children’s Fashion Show @Market Square Time: 10- 11am 907 Princess Anne St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

SAT., JULY 11 Punk Fest at Adventure Brewing @Adventure Brewing Company Time: 3pm 33 Perchwood Dr., #101 Fredericksburg, VA 22405 WED., JULY 15 Music at Melchers @Gari Melchers Home and Studio Time: 6- 8pm 224 Washington St. Falmouth, VA 22405

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SAT., JULY 15 Music at Melchers @Gari Melchers Home and Studio Time: 6- 8pm 224 Washington St. Falmouth, VA 22405 FRI., JULY 24 Sunshine Concert Series @Eden Try Winery

Time: 6- 8pm 6818 River Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22407 WED., AUGUST 5 Knitting Club at Madame’s @Madame’s Oddities Time: 5- 7pm 2011 Princess Anne St., Suite 101 Fredericksburg, VA 22401 FRI., AUGUST 7 First Fridays Karaoke @Reclaim Arcade Time: 8- 11:45pm 2324 Plank Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 MULTIPLE DAY EVENTS FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS NOW THRU OCT. 31 Downtown Ghost Tours @Tales & Tails Time: 7:30- 9pm 1010 Charles St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 MON., JULY 13FRI., JULY 17 American Revolution Camp @Historic Kenmore

Time: 9am- 5pm 1201 Washington Ave. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 SAT., JULY 11 THRU SUN., JULY 12 Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap @Fredericksburg Convention Center Various Times- See fredericksburgconventioncenter. com for more info.

2371 Carl D Silver Pkwy Fredericksburg, VA 22401 WED., JULY 15 THRU SUN., AUG. 23 Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap @Riverside Center for the Performing Arts Various Times 95 Riverside Parkway Fredericksburg, VA 22406 FRI., JULY 24 THRU SUN., AUG. 2 Fredericksburg Agricultural Fair @Fredericksburg Fairgrounds Weekends 1- 10pm | Weekdays 5- 10pm 2400 Airport Avenue Fredericksburg, VA 22407

*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.

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J ULY 2026 | 15

High School Highlights

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CLASS OF ‘28 STARTS THE RECRUITING PROCESS

BY LIYA ZEWDU

Liya Zewdu is a rising junior 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.

For many girls’ basketball players in the Class of 2028, June 15th marked a significant milestone. It is the first day many NCAA D1, D2, and D3 coaches can begin direct communication with recruits, making it one of the most anticipated dates on the recruiting calendar.

For Riverbend and Virginia Valkyries standout D’anna Kofie, that moment seems to have arrived faster than expected.

“I did not know time was moving so fast,” Kofie said.

As the coaches’ calls can start coming now, Kofie is focused on putting herself in the best possible position by continuing to develop her game and showing coaches how much she has improved.

“One way I’m preparing is making sure I put in as much practice as I can so when game time comes and the live periods start up again, the coaches will look at me and see my improvements,” Kofie said.

ognition on their own, so being a part of that is a huge plus. We also have live periods where college coaches could even be at your game watching you courtside.”

Despite the stress, Kofie successfully completed both the school year and basketball season and is now looking ahead to the opportunities that await her.

When coaches show up to her game and evaluate her, Kofie hopes they take away more than just her stats.

She takes pride in both her shooting ability and the energy she brings to her team.

As coaches begin reaching out, she already knows what factors will matter most when evaluating potential college destinations.

“When I play, I hope that coaches see my shooting ability because I know I’m no Stephen Curry, but I’ll knock down shots and do my best on both ends,” she said.

“The deciding factors will be if I feel comfortable with the coach,” Kofie said. “[When] and if I go on tours of schools, I want to imagine myself staying at that college.”

Kofie believes being a supportive teammate is just as important as putting up her stats.

Kofie also values finding a team where she feels she truly belongs.

“As a teammate, you will see me cheering on my teammates whether it’s from the bench or on the court, win or lose, because I really enjoy being around them and they are great people,” Kofie said.

“When I get to meet the team, I want to feel like I belong with them,” Kofie said. “I just want to find that connection with the coach and the players.”

Kofie credits much of her recruiting exposure to her experience with the VA Valkyries. The program competes on both the PUMA Hoops and MADE Hoops circuits, giving players opportunities to showcase their skills in front of college coaches and recruiters.

Like many student-athletes, Kofie has faced challenges balancing academics with the demands of basketball. Between high school basketball, AAU competition, recruiting expectations, and difficult coursework, finding enough time for everything has been a struggle.

“Playing for the VA Valkyries is giving me a lot of exposure because we are playing on two huge basketball circuits,” Kofie said. “They get a whole bunch of rec-

“Balancing school, high school basketball, AAU basketball, and recruiting expectations is honestly quite stressful,” she said.

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“I just want a peaceful environment where I know I can get work done and stay focused,” Kofie said.

As June 15th approaches, best of luck to all Class of 2028 athletes as they begin navigating the exciting yet stressful recruiting process and pursue the opportunity to compete at the next level.

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J ULY 2026 | 17

© Best Version Media

Kids Corner

DECORATE FOR INDEPENDENCE DAY:

BY STEPHANIE COX, OWNER, ART CART KIDS ENRICHMENT STUDIO

HOW TO DRAW A 5 POINTED STAR Materials: regular 8.5x11” white printer paper or red, white and blue construction paper, a pencil, ruler, scissors and glue. If using only white paper, you may want red and blue markers, colored pencils or crayons to color or decorate your stars.

performing a windmill exercise, you are going to draw a line from each hand to the opposite foot. Use that ruler if you have trouble making straight lines.

Step 5: Draw as many stars as you wish and cut them out.

Step 1: Choose a piece of paper and fold it in half, then in half again, then once more. This should give you 8 boxes. In each box we will draw 1 star.

If you would rather make larger stars, only fold twice so you will have 4 boxes.

Step 2: Start by drawing a capital letter A in the first box. Make it large enough to fill the space.

Step 3: Extend the horizontal line of the A so that it looks like it has arms going straight out.

Just imagine the hands on your star. No need to draw them. Use the ruler if you have trouble making straight lines, Step 4: Pretend the bottom of the A are feet, again no need to draw them. Like you do when

Now that you have your stars, use your imagination to create decorations for your house.

Here are a few ideas I thought of.

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18 | SPOT SYLVA N I A LI VI N G

from the Book The Story of America’s Birthday

By Patricia A. Pingry

• Create an American flag out of paper. Maybe the colonial flag with just 13 stars.

• Make a wreath. Cut the center out of a paper plate and then glue your stars around the edge.

• Fold some bunting. Fold a full sheet of paper accordion style. Staple one end to look like a fan. Turn it upside down and cover it with stars.

Finally, enjoy America’s 250th birthday with your family and friends. Happy Crafting!

step 2

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Inspired Art Project

step 3

step 4

About Art Cart Kids: Art Cart Kids Enrichment Studio is a child-choice art space where creativity and confidence grow side by side. Located at 77 Bells Hill Rd, in Stafford VA, each child is given the freedom to make independent decisions, follow their imagination, and create artwork that is entirely their own. In this calm, supportive environment, children learn that mistakes are a natural and valuable part of the process. Small missteps become opportunities to problem-solve, adjust, and try again—building resilience and self-trust along the way.

As your child explores, chooses, and creates, confidence begins to take root. They discover that their ideas matter, that challenges can be worked through, and that they are capable of figuring things out. This is a place where independence is nurtured, creativity feels easy and open-ended, and every child leaves feeling more sure of themselves than when they arrived.

Ready to give your child a simple, creative space where imagination leads the way? Check out our classes, camps and parties at ArtCartKids.com.

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