JULY 2026 STL

JULY 2026

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STAFFORD

Living

Rooted in Rhythm: Photo by Karen Presecan Photography

HOW ISHA M. RENTA LÓPEZ IS CULTIVATING CULTURE IN STAFFORD

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WELCOME TO THE JULY ISSUE OF STAFFORD LIVING,

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

This month, we’re proud to feature Isha M. Renta López, who infuses her heritage and Puerto Rican culture into the Stafford-Fredericksburg region through the nonprofit she founded: Semilla Cultural. We’re also excited to showcase showstoppers from STEP VA. Learn about this inclusive organization and much more in the pages ahead.

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Kira Pohwala Contributing Writer

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Karie Owens Contributing Writer

Katrina Spies Contributing Writer

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

08

Cover Story Rooted in Rhythm: How Isha M. Renta López Is Cultivating Culture in Stafford

05

Expert Contributor Debunking Summer Selling Myths: Why Late Summer Is One of the Best Times to List Your Stafford County Home

06

Parents Education Corner Freedom to Learn: Building Independence Through Everyday Skills

07

Expert Contributor Maintaining Facial Balance and Preventing “Ozempic Face”

12

Pet Corner Snake Season: What Every Pet Owner Needs to Know

13

Home Improvement Corner Buy Once, Buy Right: How to Choose Flooring That Stands the Test of Time

14

High School Highlights Making the Most of Summer: Activities for High School Students

15

Calendar of Events Upcoming Events July-August

16

Charity Spotlight Where the Stage Belongs to Everyone: The Story of STEP VA

18

Kids Corner Inspired Art Project from from the Book The Story of America’s Birthday By Patricia A. Pingry

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Content is due by the 10th of the month preceding the month of publication.

Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves.

BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2026 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

July2026 3

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4 StaffordLiving

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DEBUNKING SUMMER SELLING MYTHS: WHY LATE SUMMER IS ONE OF THE BEST TIMES TO LIST YOUR STAFFORD COUNTY HOME

Still not sure when to list? Call me at (703) 825-0332 or email ginger@givebackteam. com to schedule a consultation www.

ColdwellBankerElite.com. Let us help you make the smartest move for your future.

By Ginger Walker, Give Back Team of ColdwellBankerElite.com

Ask most homeowners when to list their house, and you’ll hear the same answer: spring. It’s a deeply held belief that March through May is the golden window, and anything after that is a mistake. But if you’re a Stafford County homeowner waiting for “next spring,” you may be missing the strongest opportunity of the year. The truth is, late summer is one of the best times to sell, and the data, along with years of local experience, backs it up.

The Myth: The Housing Market “Dies” After July 4th The spring rush creates a kind of real estate FOMO. Buyers flood open houses, bidding wars erupt, and sellers feel invincible. But here’s what most people don’t tell you: that frenzy burns out potential buyers. By late summer, the casual tire-kickers and wishful lookers have largely moved on. What remains is a pool of highly motivated buyers: people who must move. Military families PCSing to or from Quantico. Federal contractors starting new positions in the DC corridor. Families who missed out on spring listings and now want to close before the school year starts. These buyers aren’t shopping for fun. They’re ready to write offers.

Less Competition, More Attention for Your Home In Stafford County, spring listings can number in the hundreds, meaning your home competes against a crowded field. By late summer, inventory often thins considerably. Fewer competing listings means buyers have

Ginger Walker, REALTOR®, TV & Radio Show Host

fewer choices, so your home can get more showings, more attention, and often stronger offers. When inventory is low, well-priced homes don’t sit on the market. They sell.

The Hidden Advantage: Evening Light Here’s something that surprises many sellers: late summer actually offers stunning conditions for home photography and showings. With sunset arriving closer to 8:00 PM in July and August, evening showings benefit from the warm, golden-hour light that makes every home look its absolute best. Front porches glow. Landscaping pops. Interiors feel inviting rather than shadowy. That natural light is something no professional staging can fully replicate, and it makes a lasting impression on buyers walking through after work.

Stafford County’s Unique Market Dynamics Stafford sits at the intersection of Northern Virginia’s economic engine and the Richmond corridor, creating year-round demand that doesn’t follow national trends as rigidly as other markets. Strong employment, excellent schools, and continued infrastructure investment keep buyers active well past Labor Day. Listing in late summer means you’re still riding meaningful demand, with far less competition.

The Bottom Line The “wait until spring” approach can cost Stafford homeowners months of mortgage payments, carrying costs, and life plans put on hold. If your home is ready, late summer may be the right time to list. I always say the best time to move is when it is the right time for you!

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July2026 5

PARENTS EDUCATION

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FREEDOM TO LEARN: BUILDING INDEPENDENCE THROUGH EVERYDAY SKILLS

By Cherice Taylor 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 greatest sign of success for a teacher is to be able to say, ‘The children are now working as if I did not exist.’” — Maria Montessori Summer is often thought of as a break from learning — but for parents, it may be one of the most powerful teaching seasons of the year.

With schedules loosened and more time at home, July is the perfect moment to step back and ask: Are we giving our children room to grow?

Independence doesn’t arrive overnight. It is built quietly, in the kitchen, in the backyard, at the grocery store, and in the small, repetitive moments of daily life. When children are given age-appropriate responsibilities — making their own breakfast, managing a small budget at the farmer’s market, or figuring out how to resolve a conflict with a sibling without a parent stepping in — they are developing something that no standardized test can measure: the confidence that they can handle life.

The observation, with my own children as well as my 30 plus years teaching, mentoring and volunteering with children, is that children who are allowed to practice independence early develop stronger problem-solving skills, higher resilience, and greater self-esteem as they move into adolescence and adulthood.

Today many of our children’s schedules mirror adult schedules and leaves little time for free flow learning and more micromanaged time due to so many activities and commitments. Many kids arrive at college or their first job never having done their own laundry, cooked a simple meal, or managed their own time without a parent prompting them at every step.

The good news? It is never too late to start — and summer is your invitation.

Start small and be intentional. A six-year-old can sort and fold laundry. A nine-year-old can plan and help prepare a simple dinner. A twelve-year-old can manage a weekly allowance, track their spending, and begin to understand trade-offs. A teenager can navigate public transit, advocate for themselves in a doctor’s office, or take the lead on planning a family outing from start to finish. The goal is not perfection — it is practice.

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One of the most important shifts parents can make is resisting the urge to rescue. When a child struggles with a task, the temptation to swoop in is real and loving — but pausing long enough to let them wrestle with it, make a mistake, and try again is one of the greatest gifts a parent can give. Mistakes are not failures; they are feedback. They teach children that setbacks are survivable and that effort leads to growth.

This July, consider creating a “Family Skills Summer” in your home. Sit down together and brainstorm a list of practical skills your child wants to learn or that you know they’ll need. Let them choose two or three to focus on in the coming weeks. Post the list somewhere visible. Celebrate progress — not just results. The enthusiasm you bring to these moments sends a message louder than any lecture: You are capable. You are trusted.

You can do hard things.

“Freedom to learn is not about doing less as a parent. It is about doing differently — shifting from doing for to doing alongside, and eventually stepping back to watch them lead.

That is where confidence is born.”

CHERICE TAYLOR, CONTRIBUTING WRITER & TIME MATTERS PODCAST CREATOR & HOST

6 StaffordLiving

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MAINTAINING FACIAL BALANCE AND PREVENTING “OZEMPIC FACE”

By Maggie McIntyre • Photos provided by Rejuvalase Medspa

There’s no question that the introduction of GLP-1 therapies has changed the landscape of weight loss for the better, but in the realm of esthetics and the wellness revolution, there’s a common downside many are talking about: “Ozempic Face.”

While the term gained popularity with the trend of GLP usage, it can be an issue for anyone rapidly losing large amounts of weight, such as bariatric patients, those with certain cancers, and even distance runners (for example).

Weight loss is rarely localized; instead, it’s a metabolic process that reduces fat throughout the body, including the face. When you lose weight rapidly, your skin may have difficulty adapting and tightening at the same pace. On the face, this can lead to an aged appearance, as areas such as the eyes, cheeks, temples, and mouth appear more hollow or sunken.

Thankfully, there are ways to both prevent and restore this using a variety of collagen-stimulating treatments and products.

One of my favorite ways to restore facial volume naturally (or to prevent its loss) is with biostimulators such as HD Radiesse® and Sculptra®. Unlike fillers that simply add volume, these products work by stimulating your body’s own collagen production. Collagen is the protein that helps keep our skin firm, smooth, and youthful.

Both can provide immediate fullness, but Sculptra’s is short-lived because most of it is water, which is absorbed within the first few days.

However, once that happens, the PLLA (what Sculptra is) gets to work, and over the course of 4-6 weeks, new collagen grows in its place.

HD Radiesse® is similar but has the added benefit of stimulating elastin as well as collagen.

Additionally, because it uses a gel, it maintains more overall volume from the start. After injecting, it takes the same 4-6 weeks as Sculptra to produce collagen. Both products are gradual and are performed as a series of 1-3 treatments.

As an injector, my goal is never to make someone look “done.” Instead, I focus on helping pa-

tients look like the healthiest, most confident version of themselves. For many GLP-1 patients, that means restoring balance to the face while preserving the amazing results they’ve achieved through their weight-loss journey.

If you’ve noticed changes in your facial volume after weight loss (or for any reason), schedule a consultation with Rejuvalase Medspa so we can create an individualized treatment plan to refresh and restore your skin.

If you’re just starting a GLP-1, beginning our prevention program early to maintain your skin’s elasticity and structure will make a dramatic difference as you take this important step toward wellness.

Together, we’ll help you maintain your healthy lifestyle while keeping your appearance refreshed, natural, and beautiful.

July2026 7

RESIDENT

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Rooted in Rhythm: HOW ISHA M. RENTA LÓPEZ IS CULTIVATING CULTURE IN STAFFORD

By the time Isha M. Renta López saw her first snowfall, she was 23. She had left the warm Caribbean rhythms of Ponce, Puerto Rico, traveled through Washington, D.C., and landed eventually in Stafford, Virginia — a long way, in every sense, from the island where her story began. What she brought with her was something harder to quantify: a deep and abiding love for Puerto Rican culture and a determination to make sure it thrived in her new home.

she works as a program manager and physical scientist, bridging weather research with frontline forecasters.

That determination has since blossomed into Semilla Cultural, a nonprofit organization she founded in 2014 that has become one of the most distinctive and beloved community institutions in the Stafford-Fredericksburg region. This year, the organization turns twelve, and its founder, now 44, shows no signs of slowing down.

The Seed That Grew When she moved to Fredericksburg, she noticed an absence. There was no Puerto Rican cultural presence, no community space where she could feel the pulse of the traditions she had grown up with. Bomba — Puerto Rico’s oldest documented Afro-Puerto Rican music and dance tradition, with more than 300 years of history — was simply nowhere to be found.

From the Island to the Beltway Isha grew up in Ponce, fascinated by the weather that Puerto Rico’s hurricane seasons inspired.

She wanted to be a meteorologist, but at the time, no undergraduate meteorology program existed on the island. So she pursued mathematics at the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez, earned her bachelor’s degree, and then headed to Howard University in Washington, D.C., where she completed a master’s degree in atmospheric sciences.

Internships with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Science Foundation followed, eventually leading to her first professional role as a research meteorologist with the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division. She later joined NOAA’s National Weather Service, where she issued weather forecasts for Maryland, Washington, D.C., and northern Virginia — including the Stafford and Fredericksburg region she now calls home. Today,

It is a remarkable career, but Isha is the first to say it tells only part of her story.

“Despite growing up in Puerto Rico and being familiar with Bomba, my first intimate exposure to it was here in D.C.,” she says. “Being away from home in unfamiliar territory, I was drawn to Bomba as a way to connect to my culture.

When I moved to Fredericksburg, there was

By Mallory Hardgrove • Photography by Karen Presecan Photography, Liz Guertin, & Courtesy of Central Rappahannock Regional Library

8 StaffordLiving

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nothing in the area. Knowing I needed that connection, I knew surely others did too.”

So she started small: by hosting the first Semilla Cultural class in the basement of her own home. From that humble beginning, the organization has grown into a full-fledged 501(c)(3) nonprofit that teaches Bomba dance and percussion, produces public performances, creates children’s programming, and reaches Latino and multicultural communities across the region. Classes are held monthly, typically on the first Sunday, at a rented dance studio in Stafford. Renta López dreams of eventually having a permanent cultural center of her own.

A Book Born from a Gap As she taught Bomba to children, Renta López noticed another missing piece: there were almost no culturally relevant resources for young Puerto Rican and Latino readers. That absence moved her to write her first children’s book, Sofía and Her Bomba Drum (also published in Spanish as Sofía y su Tambor de Bomba), a celebration of music, heritage, and belonging. All proceeds from the book support Semilla Cultural’s mission.

The book’s journey has exceeded anything she imagined. It has been featured at the Smithsonian Institution, inspired a puppet show in Puerto Rico, and is currently the basis of a theatrical production being developed in collaboration with the Wolf Trap Performing Arts Center. But for Renta López, the most meaningful moments are far simpler.

“The pictures and videos I receive of children with the book make it all worthwhile,” she says.

Building Bridges Across Traditions Semilla Cultural’s programming goes well beyond teaching steps and rhythms. One of its most ambitious initiatives, The Banyan Tree of the Americas: Music Evolution in the African Diaspora, explores the shared African roots that connect Puerto Rican Bomba to Virginia traditions such as jazz, gospel, and tap, as well as to other Afro-Latin forms such as cumbia and salsa. Through workshops, lectures, and live performances, the project traces how these traditions evolved in different corners of the Americas while remaining linked by a common history of resilience and cultural memory.

Renta López’s commitment to the craft was deepened in 2022, when she participated in the Virginia Folklife Apprenticeship Program, studying Bomba dance under master practitioner Margarita “Tata” Sánchez Cepeda, a leader in Puerto Rico’s Bomba tradition, and bringing Tata to the Richmond Folk Festival and Fredericksburg for workshops and performances. Bomba, being largely an oral tradition, Renta López persistently seeks continued learning from elders across the full spectrum of the Bomba community to fulfill her responsibility as a local cultural ambassador.

Now, Semilla Cultural has been selected by Virginia Humanities to participate in “Dance Revolution,” a year-long program that is part of By the People: Conversations Beyond 250, a national initiative marking the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. The project will result in a video podcast mini-series with the first episode airing in September 2026 on YouTube and podcast platforms and culminate at the 2026 Richmond Folk Festival. Episodes will also be archived at the Smithsonian Institution’s Ralph Rinzler Folklife Archives. It is a remarkable platform for an organization that began in a Stafford basement just over a decade ago.

A Life Woven Together Outside of Semilla Cultural, Isha M. Renta López serves on the board of RappArts (the Arts & Cultural Council of the Rappahannock), is a mem-

Capturing special moments

with family, pets and more.

Karen Presecan, M.Photog.,CPP

karen@kpresecanphotography.com www.kpresecanphotography.com

July2026 9

© Best Version Media ber of the Fredericksburg NAACP and its Environmental and Climate Justice Committee, and holds a board position with the national nonprofit Latinas in STEM. She mentors young women and Latinas in science and culture, and, last fall, she helped lead a Barbie-sponsored STEM event celebrating Ellen Ochoa, the first Hispanic woman in space.

Her two daughters, a high school rising senior with a passion for marine science and golf and a younger daughter who sings in her school choir and plays volleyball, are constant companions in all of it. Renta López describes them as her sidekicks.

“My girls know they have a busy mom between working as a scientist and being a community leader and cultural ambassador,” she says. “I want to inspire them to know everything is possible-- to dream big, work hard, and things will work out. I always use this phrase: ‘When you do things out of your heart, blessings will come your way.’”

That philosophy, rooted in love and service, runs through everything she does, from the data she analyzes for NOAA to

the drum she plays for the community she has built.

As Semilla Cultural marks its twelfth year, Renta López wishes to acknowledge the people who helped it grow: “This milestone would not be possible without the support of our community, partnerships, and collaborations,” she says. “What began as a response to a personal longing has grown into a lasting and meaningful impact that continues to resonate across generations.”

Isha specifically highlighted, “None of this would be possible without the dedication and selflessness of the current and former Semilla Cultural members and the maestras, maestros, and elders who have taken their time to teach and inspire us.”

She also has a simple ask for her neighbors.

“Keep supporting small, locally owned businesses, especially those rooted in community care, creativity, and cultural exchange.”

For Isha M. Renta López, that is not just an invitation but a way of life.

For more information about Semilla Cultural's upcoming events, visit semillacultural.org.

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PET

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By Dr. Katrina Spies, DVM, CHPV, CCRV, CVA, CVPP

SNAKE SEASON: WHAT EVERY PET OWNER NEEDS TO KNOW

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 heat-sensing pits located between the eye and nostril.

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What the Venom Does 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.

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.

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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BUY ONCE, BUY RIGHT: HOW TO CHOOSE FLOORING THAT STANDS THE TEST OF TIME

By Karie Owens • Photos Courtesy of 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 forgiv-

ing 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 well-laid 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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HIGH SCHOOL

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MAKING THE MOST OF SUMMER:

ACTIVITIES FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

By Kira Pohwala

Kira Pohwala is a rising senior at Mountain View High School. She arrives as the chief of technology on the school’s literary magazine, Prowl Publishing, and is a member of the National Honors Society, National English Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, and the Spanish Honors Society. Outside of writing, she enjoys reading, volunteering at the local library, and has a strong passion for biology.

Summer break is a welcome opportunity for high school students to relax after a busy school year, but it can also be a great time to learn new skills, explore interests, and connect with the community. Whether you prefer spending time outdoors, developing a hobby, or preparing for the future, there are countless ways to make summer both enjoyable and productive.

One popular option is participating in outdoor activities. Students can go hiking, biking, swimming, or simply spend more time at local parks.

Physical activity promotes good health and provides a chance to enjoy the warm weather and spend time with friends and family. For those interested in sports, summer leagues, recreational teams, and Mountain View High School’s sports programs offer opportunities to stay active and improve athletic skills.

Summer is also an excellent time to pursue personal interests. Students can learn a musical instrument, practice photography, write stories, create artwork, or explore coding and technology projects. Online courses and educational videos make it easier than ever to learn something new from home. Developing

a hobby can build confidence, encourage creativity, and even help students discover potential career interests.

Another valuable way to spend the summer is by volunteering and engaging in community service. Helping at food banks, animal shelters, community gardens, or local events allows students to give back while gaining experience and meeting new people. Volunteering can also help students develop leadership, teamwork, and communication skills that will benefit them in school and beyond.

The local library offers numerous opportunities for students looking for enriching summer activities. Many libraries host book clubs where participants can discuss exciting novels and share recommendations with fellow readers. Chess time programs provide a fun environment for beginners and experienced players alike to sharpen their strategic thinking skills. Libraries also frequently offer volunteer opportunities, allowing students to assist with events, organize materials, and support community programs. In addition to these activities, libraries often provide free access to

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books, digital resources, workshops, and educational events throughout the summer.

Finally, summer can be a great time to prepare for future goals. Students may choose to work a part-time job, explore career interests, visit colleges, or begin planning for the upcoming school year. Balancing relaxation with meaningful activities can help students return to school feeling refreshed, accomplished, and ready for new challenges.

No matter how students choose to spend their break, summer offers countless opportunities for growth, fun, and discovery. By staying active and engaged, high schoolers can create memories and experiences that last long after the season ends.

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6TH ANNUAL CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY EVENT FALL FESTIVAL

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CALENDAR

of events

Upcoming Events Mon., July 6 Preschool Palette

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July - August Sat., July 11 Punk Fest at Adventure Brewing

@Gari Melchers Home and Studio

@Adventure Brewing Company

Time: 3pm 33 Perchwood Dr., #101 Fredericksburg, VA 22405

Time: 10- 11am 224 Washington St. Falmouth, VA 22405

Wed., August 5 Knitting Club at Madame’s

@Madame’s Oddities

Time: 5- 7pm 2011 Princess Anne St., Suite 101 Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Sat., July 11 thru Sun., July 12 Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap @Fredericksburg Convention Center

Fri., August 7 First Fridays Karaoke

Various Times- See fredericksburg conventioncenter.com for more info.

2371 Carl D Silver Pkwy Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Time: 6- 8pm 224 Washington St. Falmouth, VA 22405

Sat., July 11 Kids Story TimeSecond Saturday

Time: 8- 11:45pm 2324 Plank Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Wed., July 15 thru Sun., Aug. 23 Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap

Sat., July 15 Music at Melchers

Multiple Day Events

Time: 10- 11am 1010 Charles St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Time: 6- 8pm 224 Washington St. Falmouth, VA 22405

@Tales & Tails

Sat., July 11 Cars & Coffee

Wed., July 15 Music at Melchers

@Gari Melchers Home and Studio

@Gari Melchers Home and Studio

Time: 8- 11am 224 Washington St. Falmouth, VA 22405

@Tales & Tails

@Gari Melchers Home and Studio

Sat., July 11 Children’s Fashion Show

Fri., July 24 Sunshine Concert Series

Time: 10- 11am 907 Princess Anne St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Time: 6- 8pm 6818 River Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22407

@Market Square

@Eden Try Winery

Sat., July 11 Hot Girl Summer… and Boys Too

@Reclaim Arcade

Fridays & Saturdays Now thru Oct. 31 Downtown Ghost Tours

@Riverside Center for the Performing Arts

Various Times 95 Riverside Parkway Fredericksburg, VA 22406

Time: 7:30- 9pm 1010 Charles St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Fri., July 24 thru Sun., Aug. 2 Fredericksburg Agricultural Fair

Mon., July 13- Fri., July 17 American Revolution Camp

Weekends 1- 10pm | Weekdays 5- 10pm 2400 Airport Avenue Fredericksburg, VA 22407

@Fredericksburg Fairgrounds

@Historic Kenmore

Time: 9am- 5pm 1201 Washington Ave. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

@Eden Try Winery

Time: 5- 9pm 6818 River Rd. 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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HAIR CUSTOMIZATION Carrying maintenance free extensions from Halo Couture 410-322-7692 Katsbeautylounge.GlossGenius.com katsbeautylounge@gmail.com @katsbeautylounge_ July2026 15

CHARITY

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WHERE THE STAGE BELONGS TO EVERYONE:

THE STORY OF STEP VA

By Mallory Hardgrove

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.

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.

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., affirming that the stage belongs to everyone.

“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.

During the 2025 Finding Nemo, Jr. dress rehearsal, a leak caused buckets to scatter across the stage—particularly challenging for the sensory-sensitive cast. Yet, performers, ages 9 to 32, donned ponchos and carried on, demonstrating resilience despite adversity.

It’s exactly the kind of moment that encapsulates STEP VA’s beloved internal motto. “Expect the unexpected,” Monroe says with obvious pride.

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“It helps everyone to be more flexible when working through challenges or things out of their control.” That night in 2025, Just Keep Swimming became more than a song from the show — it became a testament to what these performers are capable of.

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 they are as capable as I know they are. When I witness that happen, it’s truly magical.”

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.

On the fundraising front, STEP VA’s fall gala will be held on September 25, 2026, at the Old Silk Mill. The evening features networking opportunities for businesses and community leaders, as well as highlights of STEP VA’s work with performers. Sponsorships are available for organizations interested in supporting programs that benefit participants and boost community engagement. More information about events, fundraising efforts, and camp specifics can all be found at www.stepva.org.

Monroe is also quick to extend an open invitation to anyone who hasn’t yet experienced what STEP VA offers firsthand. “I would like to challenge all magazine readers to take it a ‘STEP’ further and attend a STEP VA performance, showcase, or invite us to perform at one of your events — to witness what is possible,” she says. “That is how we continue to grow and change perceptions about people with disabilities in our community.”

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

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16 StaffordLiving

BUSINESS

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COMMONWEALTH PIANO SERVICES: KEEPING THE MUSIC PLAYING IN STAFFORD

By Mallory Hardgrove

For Stafford resident Tanner Honig, the piano is more than an instrument — it’s a calling. As the founder of Commonwealth Piano Services, the 27-year-old technician has built a business rooted in craftsmanship, education, and a genuine love for music.

Commonwealth Piano Services offers a full range of piano care, including tuning, on-site repairs, regulating, voicing, inspections and diagnostics, Piano Life Saver installations, and cleaning. Honig has also been developing educational resources on his website to help pianists better understand their instruments. “I’ve started to add some educational resources to my website to help pianists better understand and care for their instrument,” he says, “which I’m really excited about.”

Honig’s path to piano technology began with a deeply personal connection. Growing up, he was captivated by the sound of his grandfather — a church pianist — practicing hymns for Sunday services. That early love for the piano resurfaced in 2023 when he inherited his grandfather’s piano and decided to tune it himself. “I thought, ‘how hard can it be to tune a piano… I’ll learn to do it myself,’” he recalls with a laugh. “Turns out, it’s not easy.” That humbling experience led him to the Piano Technicians Guild, and within two and a half years, he had turned that curiosity into a thriving professional practice.

has a soft spot for the four-legged greeters he meets along the way and has a simple message for clients: “It makes my day when you let your dog say hello.”

Outside of work, Honig is deeply embedded in the Stafford community, serving his local church in technical, musical, and administrative roles. He also enjoys practicing piano and guitar, reading, and spending time with his 12-year-old goldendoodle, Jules — his constant companion and, by family consensus, his furry look-alike.

To learn more or schedule a service, visit Commonwealth Piano Services online at commonwealthpiano.com.

The philosophy behind Commonwealth Piano Services goes beyond technical maintenance. Honig believes an instrument’s condition directly affects a musician’s motivation and creativity. “A piano should be more than something that simply functions; it should be something that inspires,” he says. “Through skilled, reliable service, practical education, and honest guidance, my goal is to support both the piano and the pianist.”

What drives Honig most is the connection he helps foster between musicians and their instruments. “One of my favorite things about my work as a piano technician is that I get to help pianists form a better connection and deeper appreciation for their instrument,” he explains.

He views a poorly performing or out-of-tune piano as an unnecessary obstacle for players who are already working hard to master a challenging instrument, and he takes pride in removing those barriers. “It’s also satisfying to see — and hear — the tangible difference my work makes, whether it’s a simple tuning or a more complex repair.”

Life at work also comes with its share of memorable moments.

Honig’s funniest stories tend to involve the family pets he encounters on house calls, including wrestling a five-pound dog over a rat’s nest removed from a piano and a cat that decided to climb inside an instrument and bat at the hammers mid-tuning. “No animals were harmed,” he’s quick to note. He also

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July2026 17

KIDS

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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.

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 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.

Inspired Art Project from the Book The Story of America’s Birthday

By Patricia A. Pingry

Now that you have your stars, use your imagination to create decorations for your house. Here are a few ideas I thought of.

• 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!

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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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Led by board-certified Nurse Practitioner Rebecca Chanda, NP, House of Bloom blends advanced medical knowledge with artistry, precision, and compassionate care. Here is what sets us apart: our nurse practitioner owner stays hands-on and personally involved in your treatment planning, wellness optimization, and outcomes at every step. You are never passed off. You are cared for.

Alongside our experienced RN team, Heather Gutensohn, RN and Alex Morrow, RN, and our patient experience team, Drew and Kim Reynolds, we have built a practice rooted in safety, education, trust, and individualized care.

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July2026 19

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