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SIX LANGLEY HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS REFLECT ON THEIR JOURNEY AND LOOK AHEAD TO THE FUTURE
COVER PHOTO BY MYRTLE ROY
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HELLO JULY,
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As we enter the second half of the year, I find myself reflecting on how quickly time passes. For many families in our community, this season marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter as high school graduates prepare to leave home, start college, pursue careers, and follow their dreams.
As a mother, I can only imagine the mix of emotions their parents are experiencing right now. There is the pride of watching your child reach an important milestone, the excitement of seeing them step confidently into the future, and perhaps a little sadness as they spread their wings and become more independent. No more daily carpools, no more waiting up for them after activities, and maybe fewer family dinners around the table. Yet every one of these moments is a sign of success—a reminder that they are
This month, we are proud to celebrate six outstanding Langley High School seniors on our cover. Their stories remind us of the talent, determination, and bright future that exists within our community.
As we embrace the months ahead, I encourage you to enjoy everything that makes Great Falls special. Visit the farmers market, support local entrepreneurs and small businesses, attend community events, and take time to connect with your neighbors. The strength of our community comes from the people who invest their time, talents, and hearts into making it a wonderful place to live.
Here's to new beginnings, new opportunities, and making the most of every moment.
Warmly,
FROM THE SOCIAL DESK
By ANDREA SIMON Social Media Administrator
Today's graduates are tomorrow's leaders, innovators, and changemakers. The journey ahead is bright, and this is only the beginning.��✨
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SIX LANGLEY HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS REFLECT ON THEIR JOURNEY AND LOOK AHEAD TO THE FUTURE
As the Class of 2026 turns the page to a new chapter, we are proud to celebrate six remarkable Langley High School seniors whose achievements, character, and aspirations reflect the very best of our community. From championship athletes and dedicated scholars to future leaders and innovators, each of these students has left a meaningful mark on Langley and now looks ahead to exciting opportunities beyond graduation. Join us as we get to know the graduates, their proudest accomplishments, the lessons that shaped them, and the dreams they are carrying into the future.
ROY
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ADDYSON CONNOLLY
�� Next Stop: Penn State University
Major: Elementary Education
Proudest Accomplishment
Winning the Virginia State Championship in field hockey during her senior year.
Biggest Influence
"My mom has influenced me the most throughout my life, giving me the support I needed to get where I am today."
A Lesson Learned
Everything happens for a reason.
Favorite Langley Memory
Participating in the beloved Langley traditions and school spirit moments known as the "Aye's."
Looking Forward To
Seeing where life takes her family and friends as they begin their own exciting journeys.
Known For
Always laughing—and making everyone around her laugh too.
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Senior Quote
ALEXANDER (ALEX) DUMAS
�� Next Stop: The Catholic University of America
⚽ Continuing: Collegiate Soccer
Major: Finance
Proudest Accomplishment
Earning the opportunity to play college soccer. Years of training, sacrifice, perseverance, and overcoming setbacks made this achievement especially meaningful.
Biggest Influence
Alex credits his faith in God as the greatest influence in his life, helping him navigate both successes and challenges. He is also deeply grateful for the unwavering support of his family, especially his mother, whose encouragement has inspired him to work hard, stay disciplined, and pursue his goals."
A Lesson Learned
Growth comes from consistency. Results may not appear immediately, but dedication and persistence eventually pay o .
Favorite Langley Memory
Spending time with friends and teammates, competing together, creating lasting memories, and building friendships that will continue long after graduation.
Looking Forward To
Meeting new people, embracing new challenges, continuing his soccer career, and discovering where life will take him in the years ahead.
Known For
Being hardworking, competitive, and always willing to help others.
"Growth comes from being consistent. Keep showing up and pu ing in the work."
Senior Quote
"Make the most of your time by finding balance between your goals, your passions, and the people who ma er most."
Words from Home
COLE SAMBURG
�� Next Stop: University of Delaware
⚽ Continuing: Collegiate Lacrosse
Major: Business
Proudest Accomplishment
Being named a USA Lacrosse All-American and earning recognition as a Washington Post First Team All-Met athlete.
Biggest Influence
Cole credits his parents as his greatest supporters. Their constant encouragement, presence at every game and event, and unwavering belief in him have helped shape both his athletic and personal success.
A Lesson Learned
The importance of time management. Learning to balance academics, athletics, family, friends, and personal time allowed him to make the most of every opportunity throughout high school.
Favorite Langley Memory
Celebrating major football and lacrosse victories with teammates on bus rides home and in the locker room—moments of camaraderie and shared success that he will always remember.
Looking Forward To
Experiencing both the freedom and structure that come with college life while continuing to play the sport he loves at the collegiate level..
Known For
Being dedicated, hardworking, and loyal.
"Cole is one of the most driven, dedicated, and remarkable young men we know. He has faced challenges with maturity, resilience, and grace, and has loved every moment of being a Langley Saxon. We are incredibly proud of the young man he has become and excited to see all that lies ahead for him." - Mom & Dad
Senior Quote
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TESS EMANUEL
�� Next Stop: University of Virginia Major: Political Science
Proudest Accomplishment
Helping lead Langley’s field hockey team to the Virginia State Championship during her senior year.
Biggest Influence
Tess credits her grandmother, Elaine Lailas, as her greatest influence. Her dedication to creating positive change in every community she serves and her belief in education as a powerful tool for impact have inspired Tess throughout her high school journey.
A Lesson Learned
The importance of kindness. Tess believes that simple acts of kindness can create meaningful connections, brighten someone’s day, and leave a lasting impact.
Favorite Langley Memory
Surprising her friend Lily for her birthday at the farmhouse and spending the evening reflecting on friendships, memories, and the exciting future ahead as they prepared for senior year.
Looking Forward To
Meeting new people, building lasting friendships, and embracing all the opportunities that college life has to o er.
Known For
Making others feel valued, heard, and welcomed wherever she goes.
"Kindness has the power to connect people, change perspectives, and make every day a li le brighter."
Board
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Senior Quote
"Take life one step at a time, stay focused on your goals, and never stop exploring the world around you."
KEVIN MAHONEY
�� Next Stop:Florence, Italy
Adventure Ahead: Study Abroad Program
Proudest Accomplishment
Winning the regional lacrosse championship during his junior year.
Biggest Influence
Kevin credits both his mother and father as his greatest supporters. Their guidance, encouragement, and ability to help him overcome challenges have played a major role in shaping the person he is today.
A Lesson Learned
Take things one step at a time and keep everything in its own lane. Staying focused on one task at a time has helped him manage responsibilities and overcome obstacles.
Favorite Langley Memory
Traveling to South Carolina with the lacrosse team, competing in games, and spending time with teammates at the beach.
Looking Forward To
Traveling the world, experiencing new cultures, and one day building a family of his own.
Known For
Always staying active, busy, and on the move.
DARBY MAHONEY
�� Next Stop: University of Colorado Boulder
Proudest Accomplishment
Building meaningful friendships, improving academically, and challenging herself to grow throughout her high school years.
Biggest Influence
"My teacher, Elizabeth Tansill, has been a tremendous source of support and encouragement since freshman year. She has always been an advocate for me."
A Lesson Learned
Focus on your goals, but don't let any one thing become your entire priority.
Favorite Langley Memory
Attending sports games with friends and participating in favorite senior traditions such as Senior Sunrise and College Day.
Looking Forward To
Creating her own path and discovering her passions as she begins this next chapter.
Known For
Being outgoing, fun, and loyal.
Senior Quote
"Focus, but don't make one thing your whole priority."
Words from Home
“Watching Darby and Kevin graduate from Langley High School, my alma mater, is truly a full-circle moment. Even more meaningful has been seeing them build lasting friendships with the children of classmates I graduated with years ago. It’s amazing to witness those connections continue across generations and to see the Langley community remain such an important part of our lives. We are incredibly proud of the young adults they have become and excited to see where their next chapters take them.”- Kevin Mahoney class of 1992
A NOTE OF GRATITUDE
As we celebrate these outstanding graduates, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Alice Mahoney for you to the students and families who shared their stories with us. We wish the Class of 2026 every success in the
Design Meets Diplomacy Fashioning Power & Peace at the Woodrow Wilson House
By ALEENA DHAR - HOUSE OF ALKARA
Fashion is often viewed through the lens of beauty and craftsmanship, but at its highest level, it also becomes diplomacy — a quiet yet powerful way cultures connect, communicate, and understand one another.
Last week, I had the honour of participating as a designer in the Fashioning Power, Fashioning Peace 2026 exhibition at the historic Woodrow Wilson House. House of Alkara’s
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PORTRAITS THAT STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD
The two-day event brought together ambassadors, global leaders, media personalities, creatives, philanthropists, and distinguished guests, including Princess Marie of Denmark, who attended as the guest of honour. One of the most inspiring aspects of the experience was witnessing how fashion created conversations far beyond clothing itself. Through design, people connected across cultures, histories, perspectives, and lived experiences.
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In many ways, fashion diplomacy creates a universal language. A garment can communicate identity, artistry, resilience, craftsmanship, and cultural memory without saying a word. It creates conversations between leaders, creators, designers, and people from entirely di erent parts of the world who may otherwise never cross paths.
Representing India through design on such a global platform felt deeply meaningful. Every detail of the garment—from silhouette to craftsmanship—carried elements of heritage, interpreted through a modern lens.
At House of Alkara, this philosophy continues to shape our work. We see fashion not simply as apparel but as artistic expression rooted in culture, storytelling, and human connection. Events like these remind us that fashion can move beyond trends and commerce. On a larger canvas, it becomes a bridge — connecting nations, communities, ideas, and people through creativity, respect, and shared humanity.
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For example, if a homeowner locked in a 2.75% mortgage in 2021, a qualified buyer may be able to assume that loan rather than financing at current rates.
WHICH LOANS ARE ASSUMABLE?
Not every mortgage qualifies.
The most common assumable loan types include:
• FHA loans
• VA loans
• USDA loans
Most conventional mortgages are not assumable, although exceptions may exist. Buyers should always confirm directly with the loan servicer.
WHY BUYERS LOVE ASSUMABLE LOANS
Lower Interest Rates
Assumable Mortgages
The Hidden Opportunity in Today's Housing Markett
By JENNIFER JO J.D. | REALTOR | C.I.P.S. JENNIFER JO
With mortgage rates significantly higher than they were just a few years ago, buyers are looking for creative ways to make homeownership more a ordable.
One financing strategy gaining renewed attention is the assumable mortgage, a tool that can potentially reduce monthly payments and make certain homes stand out in today’s market.
I’ve helped clients navigate assumable transactions multiple times. While the process can require more planning and coordination than a traditional purchase, the potential savings can be meaningful.
WHAT IS AN ASSUMABLE MORTGAGE?
An assumable mortgage allows a qualified buyer to take over a seller’s existing home loan—including the interest rate, remaining balance, and repayment terms.
Instead of obtaining a new mortgage at today’s market rates, the buyer steps into the seller’s existing financing.
Access to below-market financing can reduce monthly payments and create meaningful long-term savings.
Increased Purchasing Power
Lower payments may allow buyers to qualify more comfortably while staying aligned with their financial goals.
Potential Cost Savings
Because an existing mortgage remains in place, certain loanrelated costs may di er from a traditional purchase transaction.
WHY SELLERS SHOULD PAY ATTENTION
A home with a low-rate assumable mortgage can become a di erentiator.
Imagine two similar homes:
One requires financing at today’s rates.
The other o ers an assumable loan at 2.75%.
That payment di erence can become a powerful selling point.
Benefits for sellers may include:
• Increased buyer interest
• More showings
• Stronger o ers
• Potentially faster sales
THE CATCH: BUYERS MUST BRIDGE THE EQUITY GAP
Assumptions are not a perfect fit for everyone.
Buyers typically need to cover the di erence between the purchase price and the remaining mortgage balance.
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A recognized top producing Realtor, Jennifer Jo has more than 20 years of professional experience combined in law and real estate. With unrivaled local expertise and access to a global network like no other, she brings an elevated experience, custom-tailored to your unique needs. Because every home is one of a kind. Just like you
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Great Falls French Provincial Home with assumable rate of 2.65%.
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Example:
Purchase Price: $2,000,000
Existing Loan Balance: $1,500,000
Buyer Funding Needed: $500,000
That gap may be covered through:
• Cash to close
• Secondary financing
• Other financing strategies depending on qualifications
Working with an experienced lender early is critical to understanding available options.
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS FOR VA LOANS
VA loans may be assumable by veterans and non-veterans.
However, if a non-veteran assumes the loan, the seller’s VA entitlement may remain tied to the property until payo or refinance.
Veteran sellers should carefully evaluate how an assumption could a ect future VA eligibility.
CURRENT
LOCAL
OPPORTUNITIES
TO ASSUME BELOW A 3%
INTEREST RATE
Great Falls Opportunity — Open to Qualified Buyers
Located in River Park near Riverbend Country Club, Fleur House o ers a rare combination of luxury living and below-market financing.
Purchase Price: $2,000,000
Assumable VA Loan Balance: Approximately $8,000
Interest Rate: 2.65%
Because the loan balance represents less than half the purchase price, buyers would need additional cash or secondary financing.
Estimated payment comparison on $870,000:
At 2.65% → approximately $3,505/month
At 6.5% → approximately $5,501/month
Di erence: $1,996/month or approximately $24,000 annually.
Note: The buyer would have to bridge the gap of $1,130,000 with either cash, secondary financing or other financing strategies.
Reston Town Center Opportunity — Available to Eligible Veterans
This Midtown North residence o ers an assumable VA rate of 2.25%.
Purchase Price: $790,000
Assumable Loan Balance: Approximately $460,000
Because the seller intends to retain VA entitlement, assumption is available to qualified veterans only.
Estimated payment comparison on $460,000:
At 2.25% → approximately $1,758/month
At 6.5% → approximately $2,908/month
Di erence: approximately $1,150/month or nearly $14,000 annually.
Note: The buyer would have to bridge the gap of $330,000 with either cash, secondary financing or other financing strategies.
WHY THIS MATTERS
These examples highlight both the opportunity and the planning required.
The lower the existing interest rate, the greater the potential savings. That said, buyers must evaluate whether they can comfortably bridge the equity gap.
For the right buyer, assumable financing may create opportunities that are di icult to replicate in today’s market.
IS AN ASSUMABLE MORTGAGE RIGHT FOR YOU?
Assumable mortgages can create meaningful opportunities for both buyers and sellers.
They require servicer approval, additional coordination, and thoughtful planning—but in the right situation, they can be one of the most powerful financing tools available.
If you’re curious whether a property qualifies for assumption, or want to understand how assumable financing fits into your buying or selling strategy, I’d be happy to walk you through it.
Summer Smarts
Protect Your Finances from Fraud and Identity Theft
By MARC ERAZO
Summer often brings more travel, online bookings, and time on the go, making it easier for scammers to target people through fake deals and phishing messages. Fraudsters use tactics including phishing emails, text scams, fake phone calls, and identity theft schemes designed to access sensitive information. While these threats continue to evolve, proactive steps can help reduce your risk.
Use strong, unique passwords, enable multi-factor authentication when available, and regularly review accounts for unfamiliar transactions. Be cautious sharing pe information and verify requests that seem unusual o
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Review your credit reports and update security settings on your online accounts.
Protecting your finances requires ongoing attention, and during summer, staying alert while traveling, booking plans and managing accounts can help keep your money and personal information safe.
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