CHANCELLORSVILLE
AN EXCLUSIVE MAGAZINE FOR THE RESIDENTS OF FAWN LAKE, ESTATES OF CHANCELLORSVILLE, MINERAL SPRINGS PLANTATION, RIVER JUNCTION, ASHLEY FARMS, CHANCELLORSVILLE CROSSING, CHAPEL HILLS, RIVER BLUFFS, SAWHILL, PIPE RUN, AND MORE!
PHOTO
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Dear Neighbors of Chancellorsville!
The leaves may not all be changing yet, but our October issue is sure to give you all the fall feels! This month, we’re absolutely dying to have you meet Catherine and Jeppy Moss, whose Fredericksburg roots run deeper than the Rappahannock.
Publication Team
We also spotlight the incredible work of Go Local FXBG and many more treats from our community. As you leaf through these pages, I hope you’ll find yourself inspired by the boo-tiful stories of the remarkable folks we’re lucky to call neighbors.
Here’s to a season filled with pumpkin spice, cozy connections, and all the treats that make Fredericksburg feel like home!
Happy haunting... I mean, happy reading!
Mallory Hardgrove
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
Crissy Hall Executive Assistant to the Publisher
Karen Presecan Photographer
Karie Owens Contributing Writer
Dori Stewart Publisher
Laura Anderson Designer
Mora Soan Contributing Writer
Mallory Hardgrove Content Coordinator
Valynda Phifer Publisher’s Assistant
© Best Version Media
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 540-709-8865 ascentfxbg.com
AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR
Bradford Jenner | Affordable Automotive 540-710-5400 affordable-automotive.com
DECKS
Mike King | Ray’s Siding 540-710-6864 rayssiding.com
PEST CONTROL
Grant Farley | Turbo Pest Control 540-220-8926 turbopest.com
ELECTRIC LAWN SERVICE
Aaron Johnson | Uncle Onion’s Electric, Organic Lawn Care 540-448-8446 uncleonionslawn.com
HEATING AND AIR
Glenn Rohrabacher | Local Heating and Air 540-903-0061 localheatingandairllc.com
HOME CARE
Beata Alghabra, MBA | Synergy HomeCare of Fredericksburg 571-752-2991 fredericksburg.synergyhomecare.com
HOME RENOVATION
Todd Pierpoint | Pierpoint Construction 540-659-8331 pierpointconstruction.com
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
PLUMBING
Caleb Newton | Next Level Plumbing 540-645-8844 nextlevelplumbingva.com
REAL ESTATE
NextHome Blue Heron Realty Group 540-328-6408 NextHomeBlueHeron.com
REAL ESTATE, ESTATE PLANNING, ESTATE ADMINISTRATION & PROBATE AND CIVIL LITIGATION Diana D’Alessandro | D’Alessandro Law PLLC (540) 412-6041 dalessandro.law
ROOFING
Donte Garnette | Monster Roofing and Siding 540-395-9112 monsterroofingllc.com
SEPTIC SERVICE
David Stewart | Dominion Septic 540-737-1008 dominionseptic.com
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WHEN IT’S TIME: RECOGNIZING THE SIGNS YOUR LOVED ONE NEEDS HOME CARE SUPPORT
BY BEATA ALGHABRA, OWNER, SYNERGY HOMECARE OF FREDERICKSBURG
As a nation of caregivers, we face an unprecedented challenge. With 10,000 members of the Baby Boomer generation turning 65 every day and 70% of them having a chance of needing some form of long-term care, families across America are navigating the delicate balance of supporting aging parents while managing their own responsibilities.
The Reality of Modern Caregiving
More than 53 million Americans are currently providing unpaid care to a loved one, with the average family caregiver being a 49-year-old woman caring for someone over 69. For many in the “Sandwich Generation”— adults between 40-49 who are simultaneously caring for children and parents—this responsibility creates unique challenges and competing priorities.
The good news? A remarkable 93% of adults 55 and older rank aging in place as an essential goal, and with proper planning and support, this dream is absolutely achievable.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Recognizing when your loved one needs additional support is crucial for their safety and your peace of mind. Here are the top indicators that it may be time to consider professional home care:
Physical and Environmental Changes:
• The yard and house lack upkeep
• The inside of the house is uncharacteristically cluttered, disorganized, or dirty
• They appear disheveled with declining hygiene
• Noticeable weight gain or loss
• Increased hospitalizations or emergency room visits or missed essential appointments
Daily Living Challenges:
• Stacks of unpaid bills
• Little to no food in the house
• Difficulty with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, or eating
• Frequent falls or safety concerns
Emotional and Social Indicators:
• Changes in general mood
• Loss of interest in hobbies and activities that once brought joy
• Confusion, memory loss
• Loneliness, no sense of purpose, socially withdrawn
• Missed medications
• Family caregiver burnout
Starting the Conversation
Having “the talk” about care needs doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Lead with love. For example, saying, “I love and respect you, so let’s discuss the best options that will allow you to stay at home safely,” or “I know you will continue to thrive by living in the home you love,” is a great place to begin.
Focus on your loved one’s quality of life and let them know you’re there to protect their independence, not take it away. Remember, one of the most threatening things to a senior who has been proud to live on their own is the possibility of leaving home and losing independence.
Advantages of In-Home Care
Many families don’t realize that professional in-home care services can bridge the gap between complete independence and residential care. From companion care that includes supportive conversation and social outings to personal care assistance with daily tasks like bathing and dressing, home care enables your loved one to age in place safely and comfortably.
Only about 2.3% of the country’s seniors live in nursing homes, proving that with the right support system, most older adults can successfully age where they’re most comfortable—at home.
Moving Forward Together
Remember, there’s no linear journey when it comes to care. Your loved one’s needs may change, but with proper planning, open communication, and professional support when needed, you can navigate this journey as a family while ensuring your loved one’s’s well-being and independence while maintaining your peace of mind.
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Catherine’s career evolution reflects the couple’s partnership approach to both business and life. “She spent about 10 years working at Dahlgren in Human Resources and Employee Engagement before joining me at the dental office, where she now serves as our Operations and HR Manager,” Jeppy explains. This transition demonstrates their commitment to building something meaningful as a team.
Their commitment to community service runs as deep as their local roots. “As a family, we feel fortunate to give back to our community through various events and fundraisers that support causes working to improve the lives of those around us,” Jeppy explains. His professional service commitment includes many years of involvement with the Moss Free Clinic, providing dental care for community members who need it most. He’s also an active member of local study clubs enhancing dental education and care quality. Catherine is an active member of the Rappahannock Valley Garden Club, and they’re members of Saint George’s Episcopal Church in downtown Fredericksburg.
The family recently experienced the bittersweet cycle of pet ownership when their rescued dog, a beloved family member for 12 years, passed away. “We’re hoping to welcome another dog into our family soon,” he shares. Meanwhile, Catherine has adopted a cat to maintain lively energy in their home.
One of their favorite activities showcases their love for exercise and exploration. “We really enjoy biking the VRE Trail and Canal Path with our kids — it’s one of our favorite ways to explore the area together. Along the way, we stop by different restaurants, ice cream shops, and parks,” Catherine describes. This highlights what makes their area special: “It’s one of the things we love most about living here: how easy it is to access so many great spots for family outings. There are too many favorites to name!”
The community’s growth and evolution haven’t gone unnoticed. “We’re also excited to see the community continue to grow and so many local businesses thriving,” Jeppy says.
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Water-based activities dominate their family recreation time. “As a family, we spend a lot of time boating in the Northern Neck during the summer— it’s one of our favorite places to unwind and enjoy the water together,” Catherine shares. “We also love going to the beach and usually try to visit different coastal spots each time we travel,” Jeppy adds. “It’s always fun exploring new places and making memories as a family.”
What makes the Moss family story most compelling is how their individual journeys led them back to where they started, but with new purpose and perspective. “Both of our families share a long history in the Fredericksburg area, and we feel grateful to be raising our family in a place so deeply connected to our roots,” Catherine says.
The sentiment that perhaps best captures their relationship with the Fredericksburg area comes through most clearly in Jeppy’s words: “My wife and I are both Fredericksburg area natives, and we feel incredibly fortunate to have so many friends and family nearby. Having grown up here, it’s special to be raising our family surrounded by the people and places we’ve known for generations. We love the sense of community and the connections that come from having such deep roots in the area.”
For the Moss family, Fredericksburg isn’t just where they live – it’s where their past, present, and future converge in the most meaningful way possible.
LINDSEY MARINE Whitby’s JESSE MATTHEWS Crown Auto Repair BRITTANY FLINT CBF Catering
© Best Version Media
Upcoming Events
October - November
THURS., OCT. 9
Fred Trails Beginner Group Ride #5
@Sunshine Trailhead Time: 5- 7:30pm 1200 Wicklow Drive Fredericksburg, VA 22401
SAT., OCT. 11
Cars & Coffee
@Gari Melchers Home & Studio
Time: 8- 11am 224 Washington St. Falmouth, VA 22405
SAT., OCT. 11
Oktoberfest
@Alpine Chef
Time: 11:30am- 9pm 224 Washington St. Falmouth, VA 22405
SAT., OCT. 11
Halloween Movies in the Park
@Riverfront Park
Time: 5:30- 8:30pm 701 Sophia Street Fredericksburg, VA 22401
SUN., OCT. 12
Grassroots Sundays Artisan Market
@Hurkamp Park Time: 12- 5pm 500 William St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401
SAT., OCT. 18
Walk With Us To Prevent Suicide
@John Lee Pratt Park
Time: 11am- Registration; 12pm- Walk 120 River Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22405
SAT., OCT. 18
Adventure Brewing Renaissance Faire
@Adventure Brewing Company Time: 12- 10pm 4 Hazel Park Ln. Fredericksburg, VA 22405
SAT., OCT. 25
Halloween at the Market
@Hurkamp Park Time: 9am- 1pm 900 Prince Edward St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401
SAT., OCT. 25
Treats on the Streets
@Downtown Fredericksburg Time: 10am- 12pm Downtown Fredericksburg Fredericksburg, VA 22401
SAT., OCT. 25
Patawomeck Halloween Festival!
@Patawomeck Museum & Cultural Center Time: 11am- 4pm 638 Kings Highway Fredericksburg, VA 22405
SUN., NOV. 9
Fall Festival
@Eden Try Winery Time: 12- 5pm 6818 River Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22407
WEEKLY 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
MULTIPLE DAY EVENTS
FRI., OCT. 10- SAT., OCT. 11
Campout in the Park
@Motts Run Reservoir Time: 5pm- 10am
6600 River Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22407
SAT., OCT. 11- SUN., OCT. 12
Fall Arts & Crafts Show
@Fredericksburg Convention Center Time: 9am- 4pm
2371 Carl D Silver Pkwy. Fredericksburg, VA 22401
NOW THRU SUN., OCT. 26
The Sound of Music
@Riverside Center for the Performing Arts
Various Times
95 Riverside Parkway Fredericksburg, VA 22406
At the time this magazine went to print, all event times and locations were accurate, but please check event websites for the most current information. Some events may have been postponed or canceled.
© Best Version Media
BUILDING SECOND CHANCES AND FIRST OPPORTUNITIES: GO LOCAL FXBG CREATES PATHWAYS TO SUCCESS
BY MALLORY HARDGROVE PHOTOS COURTESY OF GO LOCAL FXBG
When local communities thrive, everyone benefits. That is the simple, yet powerful, notion that drives a grassroots movement in Fredericksburg. Go Local FXBG, a nonprofit founded by Marcus Toler and co-founded by Kitty Melerski, is creating tangible pathways to opportunity through hands-on training, mentorship, and real-world support for those who need it most.
Marcus, the organization’s Founder and Executive Director, brings a unique perspective shaped by his own experience with second chances.
“I’m inspired when I see someone get the chance I once needed,” Marcus shares. His journey from personal hardship to community leadership exemplifies the transformative power of opportunity—the same kind Go Local FXBG now provides to others, instilling hope and inspiration in those it touches.
Kitty, who serves as Co-Founder and Nonprofit Advisor, adds crucial expertise in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, and community advocacy.
“I’m inspired by the overlooked voices finally being heard,” she shares. “Helping to build programs that connect funding, structure, and real opportunity to people who need it most is what excites me every day.” As a mother of two, she hopes her children will see the importance of giving back and pursue community service throughout their lives.
Three Pillars of Impact
Go Local FXBG operates through three core programs designed to address different community needs. The Second Chance Workforce program focuses on entrepreneurship and digital upskilling for returning citizens, veterans, and women seeking fresh starts after facing hardship.
The Youth Internship & Career Pathways program offers hands-on experience in business, media, and marketing to students aged 16-24, bridging the critical gap between classroom theory and real-world application.
The inspiration for this youth focus arose during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Marcus first began working with interns. “He quickly realized the number one challenge they faced: graduating with degrees but lacking real-world experience,” the founders recall. “That gap was keeping them from securing jobs in their chosen fields.” Today, when interns tell them their time with Go Local FXBG was the first time they felt their ideas truly mattered in a professional setting, it reinforces that their work extends beyond programs—it’s about building pathways to belief, confidence, and opportunity.
The third pillar, the Local Business Accelerator, offers affordable marketing, coaching, and exposure to small businesses seeking to expand their reach and impact within the community.
Community Connection Through Events
Beyond their core programs, Go Local FXBG strengthens community bonds through creative fundraising events. Beginning this month, they’re launching weekly Trivia for a Cause nights at Brock’s Riverside Grill, with each week highlighting a different local nonprofit. They also host Silent Disco for a Cause events, making it easy for residents to enjoy themselves while supporting meaningful causes.
The organization’s reach already extends across thousands of households in Fredericksburg, Stafford, and Spotsylvania through their Go Local FXBG Mailer, which connects over 10,000 families per issue with local businesses and nonprofits. This communication tool serves as a vital bridge between community members and the resources available to them.
Looking Ahead
While Go Local FXBG has accomplished significant outreach in just one year, Marcus and Kitty have ambitious expansion plans. Spring 2026 will mark the official launch of their Youth Internship & Career Pathways Program and Local Business Accelerator, featuring masterminds, hands-on workshops, and structured mentorship opportunities.
“We’re building a movement powered by community—volunteers, interns, small businesses, and neighbors who want to make the region stronger together,” the founders emphasize. Their philosophy remains simple yet powerful: when local thrives, everyone thrives.
Marcus, a proud father who shares a birthday with his daughter Victoria, has called Fredericksburg home for years, building businesses and now creating this nonprofit as part of his lasting legacy. Together with Kitty’s unwavering commitment to ensuring equity and giving overlooked voices a seat at the table, they’ve created an organization that understands both struggle and possibility, promoting a sense of justice and fairness in all their endeavors.
Go Local FXBG represents more than a nonprofit—it’s a testament to the power of community collaboration and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to succeed. For those interested in joining this growing movement, more information about programs, events, and volunteer opportunities can be found at golocalfxbg.org.
© Best Version Media
WHOLE-BODY WELLNESS FOR PETS: MORE THAN JUST VACCINES
BY DR. KATRINA SPIES, DVM, CHPV, CCRV, CVA, CVPP
October is National Pet Wellness Month, a great time to remember that wellness is more than a yearly checkup. While rabies vaccines and flea prevention are important, true wellness is about everyday habits that keep pets healthy, balanced, and at their best. A preventive, whole-body approach addresses our pets’ needs through three key pillars: nutrition, emotional well-being, and physical activity.
Pillar 1: Nutrition and Diet
Food is the foundation of health. A balanced diet fuels strong bones, healthy skin, a resilient immune system, and steady energy. It also helps prevent obesity, diabetes, and inflammation that can contribute to arthritis, digestive problems, or skin conditions.
Choose a diet that is complete, balanced, and appropriate for your pet’s age and lifestyle. A good rule of thumb is to look for an AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) label. Overfeeding is a common pitfall, so ask your veterinary team about your pet’s daily calorie needs and how to check body condition at home. Comfort Paws also offers weight management resources at comfortpaws.com/resources.
For families interested in home-cooked diets, it is important to ensure meals meet vitamin and mineral requirements. Balance.it provides free, nutritionally balanced recipes. Pets with medical conditions may need diets designed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist, which you can find at vetspecialists.com.
From a holistic perspective, foods also carry energetic properties that can support balance and help manage chronic conditions. A practitioner trained in food therapy can tailor diets to your pet’s unique constitution and needs.
Pillar 2: Emotional and Social Well-Being
Pets think, feel, and experience stress, just like we do. Enrichment, safe play, and positive social interactions keep their minds active and reduce anxiety.
Stress is not always obvious. Signs may include hiding, pacing, panting, or losing interest in play. Daily one-on-one time strengthens the human-animal
bond and promotes emotional balance. A happy, relaxed pet is healthier and more engaged as a companion.
Pillar
3: Physical Activity and Exercise
Movement is preventive medicine. Regular activity maintains a healthy weight, builds strong muscles and joints, and reduces stress. When it comes to mobility, “motion is lotion.” Pets who are inactive are more prone to stiffness, arthritis, and obesity.
Aim for 20 to 30 minutes of daily activity. For dogs, try walks, fetch, or agility games. For cats, encourage climbing, toy play, or food puzzles. Senior pets may need modifications, such as short walks, rolling balls instead of long throws, or traction mats to reduce slips. The goal is safe, enjoyable movement suited to their abilities.
The Preventive Approach
Veterinary checkups and preventive care like vaccines and parasite control are essential to good health. But true wellness is an everyday commitment. By supporting your pet’s nutrition, emotional balance, and physical activity, you can help prevent disease, catch concerns early, and keep your pet comfortable, active, and thriving at every stage of life.
Step
shop where the world’s finest olive oils and
and beyond,
passionate staff, and complemented by a curated selection of culinary treasures to elevate your every dish.
Escape to Serenity
Experience
Herby Green Risotto
BY CHARMAIN EVANS
PHOTO COURTESY OF CHARMAIN EVANS
Master Trainer Charmain (Charlie) Evans is a retired Marine Officer with over 25 years in DOD Financial Management. She holds an AS and BS in Diplomacy and Military Studies, a Master’s Degree in International Relations, and certifications as an ISSA Master Trainer and GGS Women’s Coaching Specialist. She is also the CEO and Founder of Faithfully Fit & Frugal (F3), a local and online fitness company dedicated to helping busy women live their healthiest lives when it comes to fitness, nutrition, and overall wellness by providing premium digital products at affordable prices.
Serves 6 - 45 minutes
Ingredients:
• 2 onions, peeled & diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 celery stalks, chopped
• 14 oz. (400 g) risotto rice
• 1 broccoli, florets finely sliced
• 2 pt. (1 ltr.) vegetable stock
• 2 medium zucchinis, grated
• 7 oz. (200g) frozen green peas
• 3.5 oz. (100g) basil pesto (vegan)
• splash of almond milk (optional)
1. Heat 1 tbsp. olive oil in a large pan over medium hear. Add onions, garlic, celery, and a pinch of sea salt and cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
2. Add the risotto rice and broccoli to the pan. Stir and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Add a quarter of the hot stock to the rice, stirring constantly. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, gradually adding more stock as the rice absorbs the liquid.
4. When the rice is tender, stir in the zucchini, peas, and basil pesto. Mix well and heat through. Add almond milk if the mixture becomes too thick.
5. Divide between bowls and top with optional garnishes.
Serving suggestion: basil, parsley, flaked almonds
© Best Version Media
ELEVATE YOUR FALL GARDEN: PRACTICAL TIPS FOR A BEAUTIFUL AUTUMN LANDSCAPE
BY MALLORY HARDGROVE
As the warmth of summer and the humidity finally give way to fall’s cool embrace, gardeners-- novice and veteran-- get a fresh canvas and the opportunity to adorn their lawns and gardens with new plants and flowers. We’ve compiled some gardening advice and tips below so you’re ready to showcase your landscape with iconic fall colors, prepare to ready your garden for winter, and select plants that flaunt autumn’s array of colors.
Planting A Palette of Colors
Besides football, pumpkin spice, and witches, fall flowers take center stage this season. You can “cast a spell” over your fall landscaping with warm, vibrant tones that echo the changing leaves. Opt for robust varieties of florals that can endure the cooler temperatures. Chrysanthemums, or mums, are classic fall flowers available in various autumn colors, from deep burgundy to sunny yellow. Pair mums with asters, delicate daisy-like flowers in shades of purple, pink, and blue to create a complementary effect.
Preparing Your Garden for Winter
As daylight wanes and temperatures drop, it’s vital to prep your garden for the impending winter. Begin by tidying up debris, pruning dead branches, and removing spent summer plants. This maintains a tidy appearance and thwarts potential disease and pest issues. Enrich your garden soil by incorporating compost or aged manure-- chicken is typically best for plants-- providing essential nutrients for fall growth and winter dormancy.
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Selecting Plants for Nature’s Fall Hues
The right plant choices amplify autumn’s transformative beauty. When considering plants for their autumn hues, prioritize those known for their vibrant foliage. Japanese maples, with their intricate leaves shifting from fiery reds to deep oranges, lend an air of sophistication to your garden. For a burst of golden radiance, introduce deciduous trees like sweetgum or ginkgo, which boast leaves that turn luminous shades of yellow before carpeting the ground.
Essential T[ul]ips to Follow This Fall:
1. Timing Matters: Plant fall flowers with enough time for root establishment before the arrival of cold weather. Aim for 6-8 weeks before the first projected frost. Or you can use this time to plant spring-blooming bulbs such as tulips and daffodils. These dormant treasures will surprise you with their vibrant blooms as winter yields to spring.
2. Mulch to Moderate Moisture: Apply mulch around plants to moderate soil temperature and preserve moisture, especially as weather patterns become less predictable. Adjust your watering regimen as temperatures decrease, keeping a watchful eye on your plants’ hydration needs throughout the cooler months.
3. Prune with Purpose: While you’re clearing your garden, you should note that not all plants require fall pruning. Familiarize yourself with individual plant requirements before trimming, and consult Google or your local expert before going to town with your blades.
Fall gardening allows you to harmonize your creativity with the beauty of the shifting seasons. By selecting suitable fall flowers, preparing your garden for winter, and incorporating plants that showcase autumn’s color palette, you can transform your outdoor space and create a stunning outdoor display to enjoy all season long.
ELEVATE & EMBELLISH: INCORPORATING ACCENT RUGS FOR IMPACT AND CHARM
BY KARIE OWENS PHOTOS COURTESY OF NK FLOORS
With the change of seasons comes the need to change décor. What better way to embellish a room with floor fashion than to add an area rug? Accent rugs are floor coverings and powerful design tools that completely transform any space. Whether working with hardwood, tile, or carpet, layering the right rug can bring warmth, texture, and personality to any room. Here’s how to use accent rugs by incorporating style, layering, and placement.
Area Rugs are Centerpieces
Area Rugs are anchor pieces in interior design and a foundation for the room’s décor. A statement rug can become the room’s centerpiece if your floors are neutral, like light oak, beige tile, or neutral laminate. To choose an area rug effectively, consider its material, pattern, and size. Wool is the gold standard because it is soft underfoot and durable. Cotton and synthetic materials such as nylon and polyester are more cost-effective. Finally, natural fibers offer durability but are less smooth to the touch. Select an inspirational piece in the room to pull ideas from, and then choose patterns, colors, or geometric shapes from this
piece for the rug theme. An accent rug can also be a seasonal design piece: mix in warmer tones for fall or lighter pastels in spring to keep your décor feeling fresh.
Placement is Key
As with any centerpiece, placement draws the eye. The placement of accent rugs drastically changes the look and feel of a space. In entryways, a small carpet offers a welcoming touch. Placing one under the coffee table in the living room or under the dining room table will anchor your seating area. A runner in the hallway or kitchen can create flow and visual continuity. A plush rug at the foot of the bed adds warmth underfoot in bedrooms.
Layer to Increase Depth
Layering rugs is a trend known for its cozy, lived-in aesthetic. Place a smaller, patterned accent rug over a larger neutral base rug to add dimension and visual excitement. This works exceptionally well in living rooms and bedrooms where you want to define separate zones or introduce more texture.
WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK NK FLOORS FOR BRINGING YOU THIS MONTH'S HOME IMPROVEMENT CORNER
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Be sure to vary sizes and materials, such as a bold, wool rug on a muted, engineered hardwood or luxury vinyl plank.
Pairing placement with style, accent rugs become flooring tapestries. At NK Floors, we can bind any size carpet for any room. We have designer carpets that can be transformed into the area rug of your dreams. We offer stateof-the-art area rugs from renowned dealers such as Anderson Tuftex and Stanton. As the crisp, cool air rolls in, let us help you roll out your new area rug and turn your floors from boring to beautiful this fall!
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RHS FALL TRADITIONS
BY LIYA ZEWDU
Liya Zewdu is a sophomore at Riverbend High School. She actively contributes to the school newspaper, with a focus on highlighting student perspectives and advocating for change. Liya also plays a key role in supporting students in special education through a basketball program, showing her commitment to inclusivity and teamwork. A proud member of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and the Junior Council for Cancer Kids First, Liya is deeply involved in her school community. Outside of her academic and extracurricular pursuits, she enjoys watching anime, reading books, exploring the outdoors, and spending quality time with family and friends. Liya aspires to pursue a career in Journalism, driven by her love for storytelling and creating meaningful connections through writing.
Fall at Riverbend High School is one of the most memorable times of the year. As the weather cools down, football games get hyped, Spirit Week kicks off, and the pep rally brings everyone together; it just feels like a fever dream.
The anticipation for Homecoming Spirit Week is palpable all year long. It’s a time when everyone can unleash their creativity and express themselves. Each day is themed, from Decades Day to Twin Day, Pajama Day, and more. The excitement is tangible all week, with everyone eagerly sharing their outfits and actually looking forward to school each day.
“Hoco Spirit Week is honestly one of my favorite parts of the year,” sophomore Natalie Peraza said. “I love seeing everyone’s creativity and what they have planned for the next day.”
Excitement builds all week, and Spirit Week culminates with the pep rally on Friday. The whole school packs into the gym, divided by grade, and the cheerleaders, band, and step team all perform. There are games where grades compete against one another to earn points. The grade with the most points at the end of the rally wins. It’s hard not to get hyped when everyone’s screaming in the moment and the band starts playing.
Sophomore Jade Hamilton said, “I love the pep rally because of the band mostly, and the games. I think it’s a good way to end Hoco Spirit Week.”
Aside from the pep rally, there’s also the Homecoming football game to look forward to on Friday night. The Homecoming game is always a big deal. There’s halftime with the band, color guards, and the cheerleaders. Shortly after, the Homecoming Court walks out, and the crowd applauds those who were nominated and won titles.
“Nominations are very overwhelming,” said Hamilton. “It gets stressful at times, but I just hope for the best.”
Then comes the Homecoming dance. With everyone all glamored out, looking their best, taking pictures, and just having fun in general. The decorations set the mood, and it’s just fun being there with your friends.
Fall at Riverbend is more than just these traditions; it’s the sense of community they foster. Whether you’re with your friends, having the time of your life, or just enjoying the moment, these traditions remind us that school is more than just homework and tests. It’s about spirit, pride, and the community we all share.
Halloween Fun: Craft a Cute Lollipop Spider
BY MORA SOAN, AUTHOR OF THE SERIES: ADVENTURES OF JACOB THE GNOME
Directions:
Materials:
☐ 1 round lollipop (Tootsie Pop, Dum Dum, Blow Pop, etc.)
☐ 2 black pipe cleaners (for legs)
☐ 2 small googly eyes
☐ White glue or hot glue (adult use)
☐ Scissors
1. Prepare the lollipop: Keep the lollipop in its wrapper. This will be the spider’s body.
2. Make the legs: Cut each pipe cleaner in half. You should now have 4 equal pieces. Twist them around the lollipop stick, just under the candy, so there are 8 legs (4 on each side).
3. Shape the legs: Bend each pipe cleaner piece in the middle to form jointed spider legs. Adjust until they look even.
4. Add the eyes: Glue two googly eyes onto the lollipop candy (or onto a small black paper oval you glue first, if you want a bigger head). Let dry.
5. Finish: Spread out the legs, and your lollipop spider is ready to decorate or give away.
This activity is brought to you by Mora Soan, author of the children’s book, Jacob in Japan! Jacob is a gnome who lives in New York. He owns a beautiful garden on the rooftop of a skyscraper. He is a picky eater and he only eats ordinary bland food. One windy night, Jacob falls into a magic flower pot. He wakes up in Japan. What will he do next? Will Jacob starve himself or will he find a way to enjoy and experience Japan? With an open mind, he may discover new and delicious foods that he never knew existed. Jacob in Korea is now available on Amazon. To purchase a book, visit your local Barnes and Noble and follow Jacob’s story on Instagram @jacob_the_gnome.
