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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 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
We’re excited to celebrate the month of May with a truly inspiring issue. This month, we shine a spotlight on 30 amazing women who are making waves as business leaders in the Fredericksburg area. Featuring this story and giving these women an opportunity to network with one another has been a goal of our magazine team for a while, and we’re so excited to share this edition with you.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the neighborhood, we hope this issue fills you with pride for our local community and just some of the remarkable women helping it flourish. We’d like to wish a Happy Mother’s Day to all of the incredible moms in our area, too! Happy reading,
Dori Stewart, Karen Presecan, and Mallory Hardgrove
Crissy Hall Publisher’s Assistant
Karen Presecan Photographer
Mallory Hardgrove Content Coordinator
Julia Pesnell Contributing Writer
Karie Owens Contributing Writer
Dori Stewart Publisher
Laura Anderson Designer Mora Soan Contributing Writer
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Expert Contributors
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact BVM at doristewart@bestversionmedia.com or 540-288-7928.
AUDIOLOGY
Paul D. Kuster, Au.D. | Ascent Audiology and Hearing Fredericksburg 540-373-6797 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
ELECTRICAL
Tony Bastianelli | J Hood Services 540-456-0001 jhoodservices.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
KITCHEN REMODELING
Zach, Matt, and Jake Lethbridge Kitchen Tune-Up Fredericksburg & Stafford 540-779-0301
kitchentuneup.com/fredericksburg-va
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
HOME RENOVATION
Todd Pierpoint | Pierpoint Construction 540-659-8331 pierpointconstruction.com
INSURANCE
Richard Bibb | Goosehead Insurance 571-379-3290 goosehead.com/agents/va/Stafford/Richard-bibb
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
These incredible women have all been inspired by their own support system, and they wanted to leave our readers with words of encouragement, too. Check out what they had to say below and feel free to reach out if you’re in need of any of their products or services.
Beata Alghabra, Synergy Home Care
“Owning a business takes courage. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Have a strong team and remember that the word ‘team’ implies a long-term strategy. Be a student of leadership.” 571.752.2991
fredericksburg.synergyhomecare.com
Karie Owens, NK Floors
“My advice to other women aspiring to start their own business would be to know your ‘why.’ Why are you doing what you are doing?... Enjoy what you do and use what you do to give back to others.”
540.582.4000 nkfloors.com
30 Female Entrepreneurs Reshaping Fredericksburg Building Dreams reaking Barriers
BY MALLORY HARDGROVE
“At the heart of it, my business is all about helping people feel more connected— to their community, their neighbors, and the businesses that serve them,” says Dori Stewart, publisher and entrepreneur, whose own journey mirrors the resilience and vision driving female business owners across Fredericksburg. “Being a female entrepreneur means I get to write my own story, take risks, and create opportunities—not just for myself, but for others.”
PHOTOS BY KAREN PRESECAN PHOTOGRAPHY & COURTESY OF 30 INCREDIBLE ENTREPRENEURS
Bri Way, Luxuria Totalis
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“Don’t be afraid to make friendships and connections with other entrepreneurs. You never know when you might need help but some of them come through to save the day. It’s nice to have a circle of people who understand the background effort of running a business.”
540.841.0676
luxuriatotalis.com
Lauren Jordan & Erin Reid, Verdant Wellness
“Just jump right in, do not over think it. There is no perfect time to start a business. It may seem scary at first but the challenges and growing pains are worth it.”
540.308.9988
verdantwellnessva.com
Nicole McDaniel, Kevin’s Roofing
“Go for it! The rewards of being an entrepreneur outweigh any risks. I also recommend finding a mentor or peer you can turn to for encouragement when needed.”
540.373.2463
kevinsroofing.com
Christina Hudson, F45 Training- Stafford
“Go for it—fully and fearlessly. Trust yourself, embrace the challenges, and never underestimate the power of persistence. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, and remember that success is built on passion, hard work, and belief in what you’re creating.”
540.202.2544
f45training.com/studio/staffordva
Catherine Lawton, Pots & Palettes
“Be willing to stay out of debt as much as possible. Love it [your business] no matter what happens or it will not do well.”
540.373.7046
potsandpalettes.com
Tiffany Prine & Suzanne Brady, Next Home Blue Heron
540.328.6408
nexthomeblueheron.com
As women, we often juggle many roles– mother, wife, caregiver– on top of running a business. Early on, I felt like I had to work twice as hard just to be seen or taken seriously, especially in spaces traditionally dominated by men. But over time, I’ve learned an important truth: I am enough. -Brenda Dixon
Dr. Katrina Spies revolutionized her approach to veterinary medicine by founding Comfort Paws Integrative Veterinary Care. “Veterinary medicine is tough. It comes with the emotional weight of lifeand-death decisions, long hours, and the constant pressure to do more with less,” she shares. By creating her own practice, she prioritizes quality care and compassionate leadership in a demanding field.
Amy Pacheco of Pacheco’s Hardwood Floors recognizes both the challenges and advantages of her position: “Fe -
male leaders often possess strengths like communication and empathy,” she says. “Working with the right teams and vendors has boosted my confidence” in a traditionally male space.
Overcoming Identity Challenges
For some entrepreneurs, gender intersects with other dimensions of identity, creating additional barriers to overcome. Bri Way, a young Latina business owner, shares: “As a young Latina entrepreneur I’ve faced mostly the challenge of having
Escape to Serenity
Experience tranquility with our expertly crafted spa treatments and unwind like never before.
Patricia Grant,
Patricia W Grant Agency/Farmers Insurance
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“Ask GOD for what you want & DO NOT ALLOW anyone else to discourage you. Have a plan, stick with it. After you have registered your business with the state, contact an insurance agent for a free consultation, so that they can provide you with information that you will need to protect your business.”
540.318.8622 farmersagent.com/pgrant1
Aubry Blais, Thistle Medical Aesthetics
“Celebrate Your Achievements: Recognize and celebrate your milestones, no matter how small. This will keep you motivated on your entrepreneurial journey!”
540.783.8209
thistlemedicalaesthetics.com
Hyon Pigman, Petman Grooming
“Don’t give up, have a good CPA, and a solid business management plan. Employ team members you can trust who share your values and enthusiasm for the business.”
540.373.6333
petmangrooming.com
Julie Birt, Mortgage Network Solutions, LLC
“Set your vision and work on your goals for the outcomes you want to achieve. There will be days that feel like a setback, but keep working on the plan.”
826.246.9436
mortgages.com
Brenda Dixon, Udugu Journey
and put in the work needed, you can achieve it.”
Aubry Blais of Thistle Medical Aesthetics says the emotional ups and downs of entrepreneurship build character. “Cultivate resilience to navigate setbacks [like COVID] and learn from failures.”
The Power of Support Systems
Behind many successful entrepreneurs stands a network of supporters. Patricia Grant, an insurance agency owner, credits her husband: “He has supported me through this journey from Day 1. With owning any business, having a supportive spouse or significant other is SO important.”
Karen Presecan began her photography business with long-distance encouragement: “When I mentioned to him on a rare phone call from Iraq that I wanted to do this, he was encouraging and supportive.” Today, her business thrives on capturing connections between families and their pets.
“Ask yourself these three questions: “Who am I?”- This helps you define your identity and self-worth, which is crucial when facing fear or anxiety; “Where am I?”- Assess your current situation, strengths, and weaknesses so you can seek the right support; and “Where am I going?”- Envision your future and do a gap analysis. This clarity helps you chart a realistic path forward.”
571.213.5904
udugu.info
the client through what may be the largest purchase of their life.”
Creating New Models of Leadership
Many entrepreneurs have transformed their professional expertise into businesses prioritizing balance, connection, and purpose.
Karen Beall, a trained chemist, brings analytical precision to her business approach: “Being trained as a chemist has made me logical and attentive to details, which serve me well.” She honors her father’s example, noting that “being someone’s chosen professional is an honor.”
The healthcare sector has seen significant female leadership, with Beata Alghabra of Synergy HomeCare highlighting the supportive network: “There is a sisterhood, a girl code so to speak within this industry. It’s a huge plus when your team understands one another on that level.”
For others, like Suzy Thompson of Club Pilates – Stafford, professional mentorship made the difference: “I have been inspired by other Pilates studio owners, giving me advice and support. It convinced me I could do it also.”
Julie Birt emphasizes the importance of organizational support: “I am not alone in this business. Like realtors, I am sponsored by my main office, Mortgage Network Solutions, and my values align with the company vision to educate and walk
For Lauren Jordan and Erin Reid of Verdant Wellness, transitioning from medical practice to business ownership presented its own learning curve: “As medical professionals, we are not trained on the business aspect. We are learning each year and growing as entrepreneurs.”
Rebecca Chanda of House of Bloom Medical Aesthetics measures success through impact: “There is something powerful about empowering others— helping them navigate challenges, avoid pitfalls, and find the confidence to pursue their dreams.”
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The Essence of Female Entrepreneurship
Catherine Lawton captures the spirit that drives these diverse business owners: “Female business owners come to the table with so many talents, loves—but most of all grit. That ‘can do’ thinking is what keeps us successful and crazy.”
This combination of determination, vision, and heart distinguishes Fredericksburg’s female entrepreneurs. As fitness studio owner Christina Hudson notes,
face every challenge. Our children are learning the ropes—we desire to leave a legacy.”
Writing the Future
These women aren’t just running businesses—they’re reshaping industries, creating opportunities, and mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs. Like many of these incredible women, Jennifer Peyton of Burg Charcuterie, emphasizes: “It’s important for me to show
I love giving local entrepreneurs a platform to grow while also sharing stories that inspire and bring people closer together. For me, it’s about freedom and impact.
-Dori Stewart
success comes from “leaning into my strengths and building a strong network.”
Hyon Pigman of Petman Grooming emphasizes the relational approach that many women bring to business: “Our ability to build a routine and establish trust allows us to provide our services effectively and harmoniously.”
For Maria Negron of Hit the Spot Kitchen, entrepreneurship begins with self-understanding: “The strength of your core is the strength for the journey.”
Karie Owens of NK Floors builds her business on faith and family legacy: “God has given me the wisdom and strength to
my kids, especially my daughter, that women can do anything and hard work pays off!”
As Dori Stewart reflects, “I love giving local entrepreneurs a platform to grow while also sharing stories that inspire and bring people closer together.” Her words capture the transformative impact of female entrepreneurship in Fredericksburg—a story of breaking barriers, building dreams, and creating a more connected community.
“For me,” Stewart concludes, “it’s about freedom and impact.” And, across Fredericksburg, that impact grows stronger every day.
Melissa Huntley-Bosco, HB Law,
PLC
“Make a plan, execute the plan, adjust the plan as needed. Keep expenses low, network like crazy, and know what you are good at.”
703.398.2143
hblawplc.com
Dr. Katrina Spies, Comfort Paws
“Success isn’t about knowing everything from the beginning; it’s about being willing to learn and adapt along the way. Most importantly, define success on your own terms and don’t be afraid to build something different.”
540.300.1213
comfortpaws.com
Dori Stewart, FXBG Neighbors
“Don’t wait for the “perfect” moment—just start. When I launched my first business, I didn’t have all the answers, but I figured it out along the way. Surround yourself with mentors, take calculated risks, and most importantly, believe in yourself. You’re more capable than you realize!”
540.288.7928
fxbgneighbors.com
Ginger Walker, Give Back Team of Coldwell Banker Elite
“One kind deed creates a ripple of kindness. Whether it’s in life or business, if you could be anything, be kind. And always, always adjust another woman’s crown even if your crown is ‘Facacalakaed.’”
540.306.5585
GiveBackTeam.com
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SANDING & REFINISHING HARDWOOD FLOORS
BY KARIE OWENS, NK FLOORS PHOTOS COURTESY OF NK FLOORS
Hardwood floors are beautiful and timeless but over the years can show signs of wear and tear. Fortunately, hardwood floors can be restored to their original appeal through a process known as sanding and refinishing. What exactly does this process entail, and how do you know if it’s the best option for your floors?
Sanding and refinishing are processes used to restore the appearance and durability of hardwood flooring. They involve stripping away the old finish, smoothing the wood surface, and applying a fresh finish coat to restore the wood’s natural elegance and protection. Sanding removes the top layer of wood. It uses a sanding machine to eliminate scratches, dents, stains, and old finishes. After sanding, the floor is buffed to remove dust or debris, ensuring a smooth surface. It is possible to change the color of the wood by applying a stain before the finish. Staining enhances the grain of the wood and can give your floors a completely new look. After sanding, the floor is covered with a new coat of protective finish, such as polyurethane, oil-based, or water-based finishes. This enhances the floor’s appearance and protects it from future damage.
thickness of the wood, the age of the floor, the type of wood, aesthetics, and cost. If your floor is scratched or the finish wears off, sanding and refinishing can restore its original appearance. Refinishing may be ineffective if your floor has deep gouges or water damage. In these cases, board replacement or repairs might be necessary before refinishing. Hardwood floors have a wear layer that can be sanded and refinished a few times. However, if your floors are thin or have been refinished multiple times, they may not have enough material left for sanding without compromising the floor’s integrity. Some types of wood, like engineered hardwood, may not be suitable for sanding due to its thin top layer. Solid hardwood floors, however, are ideal for sanding and refinishing. It is generally more cost-effective than replacing the entire floor. However, replacement is more economical if the damage is extensive or the wood is too worn.
Sanding and refinishing your hardwood floors can restore radiance and extend longevity. Our knowledgeable team at NK Floors has extensive experience performing sanding and refinishing to restore your hardwood to its natural charm.
Sanding and refinishing can breathe new life into your floors, but it’s not always the best choice. Some factors to consider are the condition of the floor, the WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK NK FLOORS FOR BRINGING YOU THIS MONTH'S HOME IMPROVEMENT CORNER
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CLASS OF 2025: PLANS BEYOND GRADUATION
BY JULIA PESNELL
Julia Pesnell is a senior at Riverbend High School. She is a student of the Commonwealth Governor’s School and serves as the Riverbend Junior Class President. Julia also runs cross country and track for the Riverbend High School team. She holds the position of committee executive for the Spanish Honor Society and is a class representative for their chapter of HOSA. Beyond her leadership roles, Julia is actively involved in community service and is a member of the National English Honor Society.
One of the most exciting parts of the year is nearly here for our class of 2025 seniors: graduation! With the final chapter of high school coming to an end, it’s exciting to hear the plans of the students as they think about their own futures. Riverbend definitely has a large and diverse student body, and therefore, there is someone pursuing just about everything. Some students will enlist in the military. Others will attend trade school or enter directly into the workforce. Some may take a gap year to help prepare themselves for what they wish to do beyond. And yet, others will attend college or university.
While each RHS student deserves to be highlighted for their dedication to furthering their future, I will be using this article to highlight a select two!
After high school Lou Lane plans to go to cosmetology school. When asked what inspired her to go to cosmetology school, Lane says, “I’ve always loved feeling beautiful, and I am very particular on things like how I get my hair cut, and how I like my makeup to look, and things like that. The idea of helping other people feel beautiful as well is very appealing to me, specifically when it has to do with hair.”
She goes on to discuss her personal relationship and skills concerning cosmetology, saying, “I only cut my own hair because I have a somewhat unique style with it, and I would love to be able to help people find their unique hair style and feel beautiful and comfortable in themselves.”
Just in a brief conversation with Lane, her passion for this field is displayed. She also talks about the flexibility that this trade will allow her to have, saying, “Even doing cosmetology school full time and holding a job if I choose to, I’ll still have a lot of free time to devote to theater and music and other things I love.”
Finally, Lane comments on her ultimate career goals as she wishes to work in a salon as a hairdresser all while continuing to be involved in some level of theater.
Leah Maliszewski
Maliszewski is incredibly talented both academically and athletically, and will be utilizing both of these talents in her future at Frostburg State University. There she will play field hockey on the Division II level, and continue her education majoring in exercise science. On this, Leah Maliszewski adds, “I was blessed to have received both an academic and athletic scholarship.”
Regarding her choice in major, Maliszewski says, “I choose this because I am interested in pursuing a job in the medical field and learning more about the human body.” Her ultimate goal is to become a medical sonographer, and she adds that
she intends to attend school for that after she graduates college.
Finally, as college is an exciting time for all, Malizewski says, “I am most excited to meet new people and make new memories.”
Overall, the school year has been busy for each senior as they have had to work hard in order to balance the regularities of school, along with making big decisions about their future. Now, they’ve almost made it to the moment they‘ve been waiting for, graduation, and for that we should be very proud of them!
Lou Lane
Photo Courtesy of Lou Lane
Photo Courtesy of Leah Maliszewski
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BREWING TALENT: RHS COFFEEHOUSES
BY
PESNELL
Within Riverbend High School there are many creatively inclined students, and the National English Honor Society (NEHS) has decided to host the perfect opportunity for such students to showcase their talent.
The students of NEHS have teamed up with the RHS Music Honor Society (Tri-M) to hold monthly coffeehouses throughout the months of February, March, and April. The coffeehouses are held during bear block, Riverbend’s extra block midway through the school day, and allow students to perform for a small group, either a musical piece or a short, original, written work.
At the beginning of the school year, each NEHS student had the opportunity to join a subcommittee that would then handle a specific NEHS activity and one of these was to plan and hold the coffeehouses. Through much hard work the students have made these events come to life as an engaging time for performers and attendees alike.
Upon arrival, students are welcomed into the library with themed decorations, snacks, and hot cocoa, and are invited to sit on the couches in the library’s central area. The students who have volunteered then perform, one by one.
At the March edition of the coffeehouse one very talented junior, Aubrey Pratt, performed a beautiful rendition of the piano piece, “All of Me” by Jon Schmidt. When asked why she chose this particular piece, Pratt responds, “I love this piece because it lets me play with my whole arms as opposed to just my fingers.” Pratt is an avid member of Tri-M, which is an honor society for gifted high school musicians.
Pratt explains her emotions before performing, saying, “Before I was a bit nervous, but the good thing about performing for a small group is that it’s very relaxed and stress-free.” She continues, “After I was done, I got to just sit back and enjoy my friends’ performances.”
Pratt goes on to say, “I chose to participate in the coffeehouse because it was a fun way to get service hours and because I enjoy watching and participating in small group performances.” Following Pratt, there was another musical performer who played a delightful piano piece, and several who read original poems. Overall, the event was a success.
Pratt says, “My favorite thing about the coffeehouses is that they allow me to hang out with students that, like me, enjoy being creative and sharing what they are passionate about.”
Another positive aspect of the coffeehouse is the fact that the audience is kept to small numbers and Pratt comments on this aspect, saying, “They also make me a better performer by letting me deal with nerves on a much smaller, more manageable scale.”
The coffeehouses have proven to bring enjoyment for many students, and because of this, NEHS plans to continue to hold these events in the future! Pratt concludes on this sentiment, saying, “I think they are a very good thing for RHS because they encourage creative expression and give students an opportunity to use their voices in unique ways.”
JULIA
PHOTOS COURTESY OF JULIA PESNELL
CONTACT:
Dori Stewart
540-288-7928
doristewart@bestversionmedia.com
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FREDERICKSBURG’S HIDDEN ART SCENE
BY JULIA PESNELL
Known largely for its historical aspects, Fredericksburg is often overlooked as an art and cultural center. Having many events concerning artistic expression and display, Fredericksburg has most definitely shown a beloved passion of the arts that deserves to be highlighted.
Just last month the 74th annual Fredericksburg Fine Arts Show and Sale was held at Dorothy Hart Community Center. Local artists were invited to submit their artwork, of a large range of mediums, to be showcased at this event. Vendors are also able to sell their artistic creations to the public, and of course, the public is invited to attend the event to support local artists and nurture their own artistic souls. And, don’t worry, if you missed out on this incredible event this year, go ahead and mark your calendars with a reminder for next March— the 75th year anniversary!
But, now, let’s look ahead at some of the many art-based events that will be occurring as we inch into the summer months.
Art In the Park
Spanning from May to October the City of Fredericksburg will host Art in the Park at the farmer’s market. Any first or third Saturday of the above months, drop by Hurkamp park in Downtown Fredericksburg to browse the various creative vendors. The event is held from 9am-1pm and is a fabulous way to begin your day. Local artists set up to display and sell their unique arts and crafts in many different mediums. From handcrafted wood carvings, to jewelry, to
paintings, and of course, everything in between, there is something to catch anyone’s eye.
An add on to this event, called Kid’s Market, will be held only on May 31, and is the version of Art in the Park specifically curated for kid creators. Local children, aged 8 to 15 years old, are invited to sell their own clever and artistic creations as they get to be vendors for the day!
Both of these opportunities are well-worth attending, as they provide a positive environment for the spectators, and countless modes of support for the vendors.
Fredericksburg Center for the Creative Arts
The Fredericksburg Center for Creative Arts holds many fun, artistic, activities throughout the entire year, and has some very interesting and engaging events coming up!
The painting with robots workshop will take place the morning of May 17, and for a small fee, you’ll be provided with the materials to build a brush bot. Using the brush bot, you’ll be able to create a watercolor painting. Then, using a bigger bot you’ll be taught some basic coding in order to guide its creation of an image you design.
Lastly, The Fredericksburg Center for Creative arts works to curate themed galleries open to submissions from the public, and if your piece is selected it will be exhibited throughout the month. You can check out their website at fccagallery.org for more information on fun events and opportunities to showcase your creativity over the coming months!
Upcoming Events
TUES., MAY 6
Picnic in the Park- 90s Day
@Memorial Park
Time: 11:30am- 1:30pm 1401 Kenmore Ave. Fredericksburg, VA 22401
FRI., MAY 9
Senior Prom- Hawaiian Luau
@River Club Church Time: 5- 8pm 10835 Tidewater Trail Fredericksburg, VA 22408
SUN., MAY 11
Grassroots Sundays Artisan Market
@Hurkamp Park Time: 12- 4pm
500 William St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401
TUES., MAY 13
Picnic in the Park- Prince & Princess Day
@Memorial Park
Time: 11:30am- 1:30pm 1401 Kenmore Ave. Fredericksburg, VA 22401
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May - June
SAT. MAY 17
Semper Fred 5K
@Premier Eyecare (Starting Line) Time: 7am
2151 Carl D Silver Pkwy Fredericksburg, VA 22401
SAT. MAY 17
90s/2000s Cover Band Waking Napster
@Adventure Brewing North Time: 5pm
33 Perchwood Drive Fredericksburg, VA 22405
SUN. MAY 18
Marine Corps Historic Half
@Premier Eyecare (Starting Line) Time: 6am
2151 Carl D Silver Pkwy Fredericksburg, VA 22401
TUES., MAY 20
Picnic in the Park- Farm Day
@Memorial Park Time: 11:30am- 1:30pm 1401 Kenmore Ave. Fredericksburg, VA 22401
SAT., MAY 24
Art in the Park
@ FXBG Farmers Market
@Hurkamp Park Time: 9am- 1pm Prince Edward St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401
SAT. MAY 24
Mora Soan- Book Signing
@Barnes and Noble Time: 11am- 1pm 1220 Carl D Silver Pkwy Fredericksburg, VA 22401
WED., JUNE 4
Bark in the Park
@FredNats Stadium Time: 6:35pm
42 Jackie Robinson Way Fredericksburg, VA 22401
FRI., JUNE 6
First Friday
@Downtown FXBG Time: 5- 9pm
601 Caroline St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Multiple Day Events
EVERY TUESDAY
Music Bingo
@Barley Naked Brewing Co. Time: 6- 8pm 15 Tech Pkwy. Stafford, VA 22556
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
WED., MAY 7- SUN., JUNE 22
To Kill a Mockingbird @Riverside Center for the Performing Arts
Various Times 95 Riverside Pkwy. Fredericksburg, VA 22406
Your Family’s Health is our Family’s
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• Weekly dust off door mats, porches, patios, decks, sidewalks, and driveways
• Up to 2 hours labor included for Spring and Fall Cleanups, including leaf removal
• Discounts on labor for all our other services www.UncleOnionsLawn.com • aaron@UncleOnionsLawn.com 540-448-8446 (call
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THE LASTING IMPACT OF VOLUNTEERS
BY KARIE OWENS
Volunteers play a purposeful role in improving lives and
communities.
What makes an effective volunteer?
Volunteers are dependable and consistent in their commitment to the organization(s) they serve. They show up and forget about themselves. An effective volunteer is passionate and motivated, with the desire to make a positive impact. Their enthusiasm helps inspire others. They can adapt to new situations or tasks. Volunteers who collaborate effectively contribute significantly to the success of a mission. A great volunteer is empathetic and compassionate, understanding the needs of those they serve and striving to minister to them with sensitivity and concern.
Why is volunteering important to families?
As a young teenager, I would volunteer at a long-term care facility where my mother worked as a nurse. I would spend most of my
CONSTRUCTION BROOKMAN
Recycled Spoon Marionette Puppet
BY MORA SOAN, AUTHOR OF THE SERIES: ADVENTURES OF JACOB THE GNOME
Instructions:
1. Make the Face
Materials:
☐ 1 plastic spoon (white or colored)
☐ Color paints (beige, pink, or brown)
☐ Googly eyes (or markers to draw eyes)
☐ Hot glue (adult supervision required)
☐ Black and red Sharpie
☐ Yarn or string (for hair)
☐ Scissors (adult help if needed)
☐ Paint the rounded part of the spoon (the face) using beige, pink, or brown paint.
☐ Let the paint dry completely (about 30 minutes).
☐ Apply a second coat if needed and let it dry again.
2. Add Eyes & Features
☐ Glue on googly eyes, or draw eyes with a marker.
☐ Use Sharpies to draw a smile, nose, and maybe freckles or eyebrows.
3. Add Hair
☐ Cut short strands of yarn or string for the hair.
☐ Use hot glue to attach the hair to the top or back of the spoon.
☐ Style the hair however you like—spiky, curly, long, or add a little hat!
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.
To purchase a book, visit your local Barnes and Noble and follow Jacob’s story on Instagram @jacob_the_gnome.
