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FREDERICKSBURG VIRGINIA | VOL. 3

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FEATURED ARTICLES

RETIREMENT • INVESTING • VACATION

RECOMMENDED SERVICE DIRECTORY

TRAVEL • LIVING • HEALTH • DINING

CO NTE NT S

FEATURES 6

Investment Strategies

Home Library

Local Event Guide

30 Travel to Florida 33 Wellness Trends 35

Recommended Service Directory

• Promote your brand • Earn new clients • Grow your business The55spotlight.com

CO NTE NT S 2026-27 SCHEDULES

PGA Tournaments

LPGA Tournaments

Grand Slam Tennis Tournaments - Australian

Grand Slam Tennis Tournaments - French

Grand Slam Tennis Tournaments - Wimbledon

Grand Slam Tennis Tournaments - US Open

Recommended Service Directory

FREDERICKSBURG | VIRGINIA | VOL . 3

SUSTAINABLE

INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Have you ever thought about or heard about sustainable investing? If not, here is some information about what it means and how one can approach it. First, sustainable investing refers to socially responsible investing (SRI) as well as environmental, social and governance data investment (ESG). A sustainable investment strategy considers environmental, social and corporate governance criteria to generate long-term competitive financial returns as well as a positive social impact. There are two ways to look at these investment strategies. Do you want to eliminate from your portfolio certain industries because of what they do (SRI) or are you more interested in investing in

companies that do good which is called (ESG)? SRI, or Impact Investing, generally refers to making investments based on one’s values - avoiding companies that don’t fit your morals. Some companies that are often excluded are those that make their profits from tobacco, fossil fuel, firearms, and alcohol but at the end of the day, you are the judge. ESG investing is focused on how the company operates. Does the company have a positive or negative impact on climate change, what is the company culture, and what is the corporate structure in relation to its stakeholders? To accomplish your goals, consider an asset manager’s history and whether they have dedicated the

FREDERICKSBURG | VIRGINIA | VOL . 3

necessary resources to provide ongoing research and analysis. To maintain returns while investing sustainably, seek out a fund that is benchmarked to a broad-based index. This shows the manager’s goal is to provide market-like or better than market returns. Research has shown that companies that best manage their environmental and social impact

and follow good governance practices (ESG) are more profitable in the medium and long term. The growth in sustainable investment opportunities has been substantial as individuals choose to find investments that align with their goals. The Global Sustainable Investment Alliance reports a 34 per cent increase in these investments over the last two years.

FREDERICKSBURG | VIRGINIA | VOL . 3

HOME LIBRARY HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT OF CREATING A LIBRARY IN YOUR HOME?

Home libraries are a dedicated space to relax and enjoy reading time. If you love books and have a lot of them, it is a great way to

enjoy your collection. It is also a personal statement about what you’re interested in; books and mementos can serve as a history (. . .continued on page 10)

FREDERICKSBURG | VIRGINIA | VOL . 3

of your life. It is wonderful if you have a room that can be designated as the library but that really isn’t necessary. What’s most important is to create a cozy space for your collection. A library can be created in many different spaces since a room can be multi-functional. Sometimes there is space under a staircase or in a quiet nook, maybe a wall in the dining room or the hall. A fireplace can often be surrounded by bookshelves to create a library. Even a bedroom can be an interesting place to create your library; it could even be used as a wall unit above your headboard. All it takes is a little imagination. Your personal library isn’t necessarily just for books. It is a place to show off collections, photos, albums, plants and even art. It can all be incorporated in the design. It is really about your own interests, which is what makes it personal. You might want to include a desk in your library wall or a hidden space to hide games and other important knick-knacks. Keep in mind that a library should feel like a cozy retreat for reading. Depending on the space, consider (. . .continued on page 12) 10

FREDERICKSBURG | VIRGINIA | VOL . 3

the color palette. Deep rich colors are relaxing in a library, but it all depends on the library’s location and the design of your home. Wood paneled libraries are traditional but there are many ways to create a relaxing space, depending on your own individual aesthetic. If you have a window with surrounding bookshelves, a window seat makes the perfect addition. Add a comfortable oversized chair if you have space. Don’t forget to consider lighting, which depends on the size and location of your library. Use picture lights mounted at the top of the shelves to illuminate books and add a dramatic effect. For a traditional look, use wall sconces. For actual reading, recessed lighting is appropriate as it can be dimmed by preference. Table lamps are always appropriate as are floor lamps depending on the location and available space in your own library. Whether your home is large or small, there is always a space for a personal library.

FREDERICKSBURG | VIRGINIA | VOL . 3

2026 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE DATES

* Schedule subject to change

TOURNAMENT

WATCH

JUL 2 - 5

John Deere Classic TPC Deere Run Silvis, IL • USA

JUL 9 - 12

Genesis Scottish Open The Renaissance Club North Berwick • Scotland

PARAMOUNT, GOLF, CBS, ESPN+, SXM

JUL 9 - 12

ISCO Championship Hurstbourne Country Club Louisville, KY • USA

GOLF

JUL 16 - 19

The Open Championship Royal Birkdale Golf Club Southport • England

JUL 16 - 19

Corales Puntacana Championship Puntacana Resort & Club (Corales Golf Course) Punta Cana • Dominican Republic

GOLF

JUL 23 - 26

3M Open TPC Twin Cities Blaine, MN • USA

PARAMOUNT, GOLF, CBS, ESPN+, SXM

JUL 30 - AUG 2

Rocket Classic Detroit Golf Club Detroit, MI • USA

PARAMOUNT, GOLF, CBS, ESPN+, SXM

AUG 6 - 9

Wyndham Championship Sedgefield Country Club Greensboro, NC • USA

PARAMOUNT, GOLF, CBS, ESPN+, SXM

AUG 13 - 16

FedEx St. Jude Championship TPC Southwind Memphis, TN • USA

PARAMOUNT, GOLF, CBS, ESPN+, SXM

AUG 20 - 23

BMW Championship Bellerive Country Club St. Louis, MO • USA

PARAMOUNT, GOLF, CBS, ESPN+, SXM

AUG 27 - 30

TOUR Championship East Lake Golf Club Atlanta, GA • USA

PARAMOUNT, GOLF, CBS, ESPN+, SXM

+ Signature Event # Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored ^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour (. . .continued on page 16) 14

FREDERICKSBURG | VIRGINIA | VOL . 3

2026 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE DATES

TOURNAMENT

* Schedule subject to change

WATCH

SEP 17 - 20

Biltmore Championship Asheville The Cliffs at Walnut Cove Asheville, NC • USA

SEP 24 - 27

Presidents Cup Medinah CC (No. 3) Chicago, IL • USA

PARAMOUNT, GOLF, NBC

OCT 1 - 4

Bank of Utah Championship Black Desert Resort Ivins, UT • USA

GOLF

OCT 8 - 11

Baycurrent Classic Yokohama Country Club Yokohama • Japan

GOLF

OCT 22 - 25

Butterfield Bermuda Championship Port Royal Golf Course Southampton • Bermuda

GOLF

OCT 29 - NOV 1

VidantaWorld Mexico Open Vidanta Vallarta Vallarta • Mexico

GOLF

World Wide Technology Championship NOV 5 - 8

El Cardonal at Diamante

GOLF

Los Cabos • Mexico NOV 12 - 15

Good Good Championship Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa Fazio Canyons Course) Austin, TX • USA

GOLF

NOV 19 - 22

The RSM Classic Sea Island Golf Club (Seaside Course) St. Simons Island, GA • USA

GOLF

DEC 3 - 6

Hero World Challenge Albany GC Albany •

PARAMOUNT, GOLF, NBC

DEC 11 - 13

Grant Thornton Invitational Tiburón Golf Club Naples, FL • USA

PARAMOUNT, GOLF, NBC

+ Signature Event # Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored ^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour

FREDERICKSBURG | VIRGINIA | VOL . 3

2026 LPGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change ** Purse subject to change

DATES

TOURNAMENT

PURSE

JULY 9-12

The Amundi Evian Championship Evian Resort Golf Club | Evian-les-Bains, France

$8M

JULY 23-26

ISPS HANDA Women’s Scottish Open Dundonald Links | Gailes, North Ayrshire, Scotland

$2M

JULY 30 AUG. 2

AIG Women’s Open Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club | Lytham St Annes, England, United Kingdom

$9.75M

AUG. 13-16

The Standard Portland Classic Columbia Edgewater Country Club | Portland, Oregon

$2M

AUG. 20-23

CPKC Women’s Open Royal Mayfair Golf Club | Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

$2.75M

AUG. 27-30

FM Championship TPC Boston | Norton, Massachusetts

$4.4M

SEPT. 11-13

Solheim Cup Bernardus Golf | s’-Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch), Netherlands

SEPT. 25-27

Walmart NW Arkansas Championship presented by P&G Pinnacle Country Club | Rogers, Arkansas

$3M

OCT. 1-4

LOTTE Championship presented by Hoakalei Hoakalei Country Club | Ewa Beach, Oahu, Hawaii

$3M

OCT. 15-18

Buick LPGA Shanghai TBD | People’s Republic of China

$3.2M

OCT. 22-25

BMW Ladies Championship Pine Beach Golf Links | Haenam-gun, Jeollanam-do, Republic of Korea

$2.35M

OCT. 29 NOV. 1

Maybank Championship Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club | Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

$3M

NOV. 5-8

TOTO Japan Classic Taiheiyo Club, Minori Course | Ibaraki, Japan

$2.1M

NOV. 12-15

The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican Pelican Golf Club | Belleair, Florida

$3.25M

NOV. 19-22

CME Group Tour Championship TiburonGolf Club | Naples, Florida

$11M

DEC.11-13

Grant Thornton Invitational TiburonGolf Club | Naples, Florida

$2.05M

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE FREDERICKSBURG PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS ARE UNCERTAIN. DUE TO THE CURRENT SITUATIONS, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.

JULY

JULY 24 - 30 | HIGHLANDS FEST 75 years ago, Robert Porterfield began a cultural experience unparalleled to our region. The Virginia Highlands Festival has continued to grow in size and scope to become a destination for tourists and a beloved regional cultural resource for the arts, history and culture of Virginia. For more info visit: vahighlandsfestival.com JULY 24 - 30 | AGRICULTURAL FAIR The Fredericksburg Fair is 288! Founded in 1738, Fredericksburg Agricultural Fair is the oldest fair in the United States. Join us in celebrating traditional fair events, contests, entertainment, food and fun for the whole family! For more info visit: fredericksburgfair.org

AUGUST

AUG 8 | BOURBON FESTIVAL Indulge in a lively evening of Bourbon & Craft Beer tasting as we celebrate the finest distilled spirits at this one-of-a-kind event. Join us for an unforgettable evening of BOURBON and CRAFT BEER at the Virginia Bourbon and Beer Festival. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/yvpsf26x AUG 8 - 9 | JAZZ FESTIVAL This is a world-class jazz event that’s worth traveling for. Every year, the Richmond Jazz and Music Festival lines up some of the best names in jazz, funk and blues. Make plans now to join us at this monumental festival! For more info visit: richmondjazzandmusicfestival.com

(. . .continued on page 20) 18

(. . .continued from 18)

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

SEPT 25 - 30 | STATE FAIR The Virginia State Fair features dozens of food vendors offering all-time favorites like funnel cakes, cotton candy, and barbecue chicken. Vendors offer souvenirs, clothing, belt buckles, and various unusual designs.The beautiful Meadow Park is a great outdoor setting for exciting rides, games, shows, concerts, and other family fun. For more info visit: statefairva.org

OCT 24 | PICKLE & GRILLED CHEESE FESTIVAL Pickle & Grilled Cheese Festival is BACK for a full day of pickle-packed, grilled cheese goodness. Join us for pickle tastings, pickle and grilled cheese food trucks, pickle vendors, pickle mocktail and cocktail bar, pickle beer, pickle cider, pickle-inspired wine, and so much more. Come hungry and get ready for a briny, cheesy good time. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/35jy5w2s

SEPT 12 | CIDER FESTIVAL Get ready to sip and savor the best cider Virginia has to offer at the Virginia Cider Festival! Welcome to the Virginia Cider Festival! Join us for a day filled with the best ciders in Virginia and beyond! Taste and savor a wide variety of ciders from local, regional and national producers. For more info visit: fredericksburgfair.org

OCT 16 - 17 | OKTOBERFEST! Come celebrate at the only authentic Oktoberfest in Virginia. The entertainment will be highlighted with the traditional march of the regional German Societies, the crowning of the Oktoberfest Queen, and the popular Beer Stein Hoisting Contest. For more info visit: richmondoktoberfestinc.com

NOVEMBER

NOV 6 - 7 | OYSTER FESTIVAL As you walk through the festival you will find many food & craft vendors, as well as wine tasting, beer tasting, and educational experiences. There is something for everyone at this popular festival & the Urbanna Oyster Festival invites individuals from all over to what has long been known as the Official Oyster Festival of the Commonwealth. For more info visit: urbannaoysterfestival.com NOV 14 | TRUE HONEY TEAS FESTIVAL The True Honey Teas Festival is a celebration of flavor, wellness, and community — bringing together tea lovers, local artisans, and honey enthusiasts from around the world. Guests can sip and sample dozens of unique tea blends, discover rare botanicals, and meet the makers behind each cup. The festival features tasting sampling stations, workshops, make you own tea bag, Virtual reality tour of the farms, chocolate and tea

pairs, live music, vendor shopping in family-friendly fun atmosphere. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/mw3hkufx

DECEMBER

DEC 4 - 6 | CRAFT FAIR Wander through aisles brimming with creativity and craftsmanship—from handcrafted jewelry and cozy home décor to seasonal specialties and one-of-a-kind treasures, there’s something for everyone on your holiday list. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect gift, looking to bring holiday charm to your home, or just want to soak up the sights and sounds of the season with family and friends, this is the place to be. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/fvu8vrwy

DEC 19 - 20 | CHRISTMAS VILLAGE Step into a winter wonderland at The Christmas Experience, presented by North Pole Events. For one weekend only the Fredericksburg Fairgrounds transforms into a Christmas village filled with lights, music, snow, and family fun. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/58h3935s

JANUARY

JAN 8 - 10 | BOAT SHOW What better time to start preparing for summer than during the cold, dark days of winter? Get ready for fun in the sun at the FXBG Boat & Water Sports Sale! Whether you’re in the market for a wake boat, speed boat, pontoon boat, bass boat, jet ski, or any type of watercraft, we have something for everyone. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/3rfpx9be

JAN 8 - 9 | FLY FISHING FESTIVAL Nowhere else can anglers learn about the quiet sport in such a beginner-friendly environment. Our unique event combines fine wine tasting, microbrewery beer, and everything you ever wanted to know about fly fishing but were afraid to ask. For more info visit: vaflyfishingfestival.com

FEBRUARY

FEB 6 | CHOCOLATE, WINE & WHISKEY FESTIVAL Enjoy Chocolate in a multitude of decadent presentations – an amazing selection of bean-to-bar artisan chocolates. Quench your thirst with Champagne, Prosecco and premium wines and a sip of fine whiskies! Hey, and buy some to take home – why not, you deserve it! For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/mrh37xak

(. . .continued on page 24) 22

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Grow your business

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(. . .continued from 24)

MARCH

MAY

APRIL

JUNE

MARCH 14 | SHAMROCK THE BLOCK Shamrock The Block is a FREE street festival - located in Historic Scott’s Addition - on LEIGH STREET between Movieland and Midtown Green! This is our cure for “Cabin Fever” in Richmond. For more info visit: shamrocktheblock.com

APRIL 9 - 11 | SPRING MARKET Two Exhibition Buildings featuring unique gifts, gourmet foods, boutiques, fine artists and crafters and exciting decorative accessories for the home and garden. For more info visit: thebizarrebazaar.com

MAY 21 - 23 | RIVERROCK The nation’s largest outdoor sports and music festival is Dominion Energy Riverrock, a three-day riverside experience in an urban setting with great food, craft beer and wine nearby. This isn’t your typical festival, and we’re not your typical town. For more info visit: riverrockrva.com

JUNE 3 - 6 | GREEK FESTIVAL In Ancient Greece, the Agora was traditionally a city center or meeting place for a town. It transformed into a marketplace for local vendors to sell goods and items. At the Richmond Greek Festival, we pay tribute to this ancient tradition and bring in many local and international vendors for the public to browse. For more info visit: greekfestival.com

FREDERICKSBURG | VIRGINIA | VOL . 3

2027 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change

SESSION

DATE

TIME

FEATURED MATCHES

JAN 14 - THU

10:00 AM

Qualifying

JAN 15 - FRI

10:00 AM

Qualifying

JAN 16 - SAT

10:00 AM

Qualifying

JAN 17 - SUN

11:00 AM

First Round

JAN 17 - SUN

7:00 PM

First Round

JAN 18 - MON

11:00 AM

First Round

JAN 18 - MON

7:00 PM

First Round

JAN 19 - TUE

11:00 AM

First Round First Round

JAN 19 - TUE

7:00 PM

JAN 20 - WED

11:00 AM

Second Round

JAN 20 - WED

7:00 PM

Second Round

JAN 21 - THU

11:00 AM

Second Round

JAN 21 - THU

7:00 PM

Second Round

JAN 22 - FRI

11:00 AM

Third Round

JAN 22 - FRI

7:00 PM

Third Round

JAN 23 - SAT

11:00 AM

Third Round Third Round

JAN 23 - SAT

7:00 PM

JAN 24 - SUN

11:00 AM

Fourth Round

JAN 24 - SUN

7:00 PM

Fourth Round

JAN 25 - MON

11:00 AM

Fourth Round

JAN 25 - MON

7:00 PM

Fourth Round

JAN 26 - TUE

11:00 AM

Quarterfinals Quarterfinals

JAN 26 - TUE

7:00 PM

JAN 27 - WED

11:00 AM

Quarterfinals

JAN 27 - WED

7:00 PM

Quarterfinals

JAN 28 - THU

11:00 AM

Women’s Semifinals

JAN 29 - FRI

12:00 PM

First Men’s Final

JAN 29 - FRI

7:30 PM

Second Men’s Semifinal

JAN 30 - SAT

7:30 PM

Women’s Singles Final Men’s Doubles Final

JAN 31 - SUN

7:30 PM

Women’s Doubles Final Men’s Singles Final

FREDERICKSBURG | VIRGINIA | VOL . 3

2027 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change

DATE

PLAY START

SESSION

MAY 23 - SUN

11:00AM

First Round

MAY 23 - SUN

8:15 PM

First Round

MAY 24 - MON

11:00AM

First Round

MAY 24 - MON

8:15 PM

First Round

MAY 25 - TUE

11:00AM

First Round

MAY 25 - TUE

8:15 PM

First Round

MAY 26 - WED

11:00AM

Second Round

MAY 26 - WED

8:15 PM

Second Round

MAY 27 - THU

11:00AM

Second Round

MAY 27 - THU

8:15 PM

Second Round

MAY 28 - FRI

11:00AM

Third Round

MAY 28 - FRI

8:15 PM

Third Round

MAY 29 - SAT

11:00AM

Third Round

MAY 29 - SAT

8:15 PM

Third Round

MAY 30 - SUN

11:00AM

Fourth Round

MAY 30 - SUN

8:15 PM

Fourth Round

MAY 31 - MON

11:00AM

Fourth Round

MAY 31 - MON

8:15 PM

Fourth Round

JUNE 1 - TUE

11:00AM

Quarterfinals

JUNE 1 - TUE

8:15 PM

Quarterfinals

JUNE 2 - WED

11:00AM

Quarterfinals

JUNE 2 - WED

8:15 PM

Quarterfinals

JUNE 3 - THUR

2:30 PM

Ladies Single Semifinals, Men’s Doubles

JUNE 4 - FRI

2:30 PM

Mens Singles Semifinals, Ladies Doubles

JUNE 5 - SAT

8:15 PM

Ladies Singles Final, Mens Double Final

JUNE 6 - SUN

3:00 PM

Men’s Singles Final, Ladies Double Final

FREDERICKSBURG | VIRGINIA | VOL . 3

2026 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change

DATE

PLAY START

SESSION

JUNE 29 - MON

11:00 AM

Men's & Ladies' 1st Round

JUNE 30 - TUE

11:00 AM

Men's & Ladies' 1st Round

JULY 1 - WED

11:00 AM

Men's & Ladies' 2nd Round

JULY 2 - THU

11:00 AM

Men's & Ladies' 2rd Round

JULY 3 - FRI

11:00 AM

Men's & Ladies' 3rd Round

JULY 4 - SAT

11:00 AM

Men's & Ladies' 3rd Round

JULY 5 - SUN

11:00 AM

Men's & Ladies' 4th Round

JULY 6 - MON

11:00 AM

Men's & Ladies’ 4th Round

JULY 7- TUE

11:00 AM

Ladies' and Gentlemen's Quarterfinals

JULY 8 - WED

11:00 AM

Ladies’ and Gentlemen’s Quarterfinals

JULY 9 - THU

11:00 AM

Ladies’ Semifinals

JULY 9 - THU

11:00 AM

Gentlemen’s Semifinals

JULY 10 - FRI

11:00 AM

Ladies’ Singles Final & Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles

JULY 11 - SAT

11:00 AM

Gentlemen’s Singles Final & Ladies’ Doubles

FREDERICKSBURG | VIRGINIA | VOL . 3

2026 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change ** Start Times Listed in EST

SESSION

DATE

SCHEDULE

PLAY START

MATCHES

AUG 24 - SUN

Day

12:00 PM

First Round

AUG 24 - SUN

Night

7:00 PM

First Round

AUG 25 - MON

Day

12:00 PM

First Round

AUG 25 - MON

Night

7:00 PM

First Round

AUG 26 - TUE

Day

12:00 PM

First Round

AUG 26 - TUE

Night

7:00 PM

First Round

AUG 27 - WED

Day

12:00 PM

Second Round

AUG 27 - WED

Night

7:00 PM

Second Round

AUG 28 - THU

Day

12:00 PM

Second Round

AUG 28 - THU

Night

7:00 PM

Second Round

AUG 29 - FRI

Day

12:00 PM

Third Round

AUG 29 - FRI

Night

7:00 PM

Third Round

AUG 30 - SAT

Day

12:00 PM

Third Round

AUG 30 - SAT

Night

7:00 PM

Third Round

AUG 31 - SUN

Day

12:00 PM

Fourth Round

AUG 31 - SUN

Night

7:00 PM

Fourth Round

SEP 1 - MON

Day

12:00 PM

Fourth Round

SEP 1 - MON

Night

7:00 PM

Fourth Round

SEP 2 - TUE

Day

12:00 PM

Quarterfinals

SEP 2 - TUE

Night

7:00 PM

Quarterfinals

SEP 3 - WED

Day

12:00 PM

Quarterfinals

SEP 3 - WED

Night

7:00 PM

Quarterfinals

SEP 4 - THU

Night

7:00 PM

Women’s Semifinals

SEP 5 - FRI

Day

3:00 PM

Men’s Semifinals

SEP 5 - FRI

Night

7:00 PM

Men’s Semifinals

SEP 6 - SAT

Night

4:00pm

Women’s Final

SEP 7 - SUN

Day

2:00pm

Men’s Final 29

Florida HISTORIC TOWNS IN

If you happen to be driving through Florida, there are several interesting and historic towns worth visiting. St. Augustine, the oldest town in America, is located on the northeast coast of the state, just south of Jacksonville. Then head south to enjoy the Lake Wales Ridge, which includes the towns of Sebring, Lake Placid and Avon. First settled in 1565 by the Spanish and predating both Jamestown and Plymouth Rock, St Augustine was first seen by Admiral Pedro Menendez de Aviles. Visit Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th century Spanish stone fortress, and the cobblestoned historic downtown that includes over 30 historic houses. Remember, this is the city known for the Fountain of Youth, so be sure to see the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park where

visitors can drink from the spring. Next, head south to Lake Wales, which has an ‘old Florida” vibe and is one of the most scenic areas in the state. Known for its cypress trees, citrus groves and abundance of freshwater lakes, Lake Wales can’t be missed! Enjoy the history of these towns and don’t miss Highlands State Park for hiking, biking, birding and a variety of rare and native plants. Sebring has undergone a major restoration of its historic downtown. There is a lot to see and do, particularly if you are a history buff. Sebring was founded in 1912 by Ohio pottery manufacturer George E. Sebring and is now designated as a 1920’s Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places. Known as “The City on the Circle” because of its design

which is based on the ancient Egyptian city of Heliopolis. With a circular park, all roads radiate from there which makes Sebring very distinctive. Lake Placid was founded in 1927 and has two nicknames: the “Town of Murals” and “The Caladium Capital of the World”. It is known for its art scene with over 50 murals throughout the town, it is a sight to behold. Some of the murals are as large as 175 feet

Travels ENJOY YOUR

wide and 30 feet tall and depict the town’s history including the town’s Native American heritage. There is also the Historical Society Depot Museum located in the original railroad depot. And don’t miss the interesting boutiques and restaurants in the downtown area. Avon Park is known as the “City of Charm” because of its historic downtown and small town feel. It was founded in 1886 and is the oldest town in the region, It was named after Stratford-upon-Avon, England. Visit the Avon Park Depot Museum and the Museum of Florida Arts and Culture. Babe Ruth and Clark Gable stayed at the historic Hotel Jacarinda downtown.

FREDERICKSBURG | VIRGINIA | VOL . 3

WELLNESS TRENDS FOR

2026

In 2026, there will be a focus on fitness and AI will be a part of this trend. It will revolutionize the industry through personalization, instant feedback and data tracking. The fitness trend has shifted from short-term goals to long-term lifestyle concerns. People are focused on the number of years lived in good health, not just lifespan. There is an emphasis on fundamentals like strength training, consistent sleep, stress reduction and a nutrient rich diet as well as preventative health care. Technology plays a part in this shift toward mind and body fitness as real time data becomes available. Wearable technology, artificial intelligence and advanced

analytics give individuals a unique understanding of their body. Wearables like Apple Watches, WHOOP, and Oura Rings increase our knowledge of how our bodies are functioning. Not only do wearables count steps and steadiness, but they are also capable of tracking sleep quality and recovery, heart rate variations, skin temperature and other variables. With all this information, personalized programs can be developed that incorporate diet, exercise and recovery. The American College of Sports Medicine ranked wearable technology as the #1 fitness trend because of its ability to integrate

FREDERICKSBURG | VIRGINIA | VOL . 3

nutrition, sleep, mental health, and physical performance. AI can analyze all the data and recognize patterns. Imagine being informed that your recovery is lagging or your walking isn’t steady. Then it tells you how to correct through exercise or adjustments to sleep routines, nutrition or stress management strategies. There is also a new emphasis on recovery from a workout. It is now considered a critical component of any fitness program as it enhances performance, longevity and overall

wellness. Gyms today often offer meditation corners, hyperbaric chambers, red light therapy, cold plunge pools, and cryotherapy stations. Additionally, there are somatic healing offerings. These include yoga, Pilates, tai chi, and dance - all of which focus on the mind body connection. The latest trends in fitness are holistic and recognize that mental and emotional health are inseparable from physical performance.

RECOMMENDED SERVICE DIRECTORY

ALZHEIMER’S RESOURCE Alzheimer’s Association............ Back Inside Cover

ESTATE PLANNING HB Law..........................................................................25

BATHROOM REMODELING Kitchen Tune Up...........................................................1

FIRE SAFETY Smokey Bear...................... Front Cover, Back Cover

BEAUTY & WELLNESS Body Thief Body Sculpting...................................13

FITNESS fit20 .................................................................................5

BED & BREAKFAST Belle Grove Plantation.............................................13

FLORIST Flowers by Val............................................................13

BODY SCULPTING Body Thief Body Sculpting...................................13

HANDYMAN Solid Handyman.........................................................11

BUSINESS ORGANIZATION Organization Direct................................................... 9

HISTORIC SITE Belle Grove Plantation.............................................13

CONTRACTOR Deck Builders ...............................................................3

HOME ORGANIZATION Organization Direct................................................... 9

DECK BUILDER Deck Builders ...............................................................3

HORSE-DRAWN CARRIAGE TOURS Olde Towne Carriage...............................................15

DOWNSIZING Organization Direct................................................... 9 EBIKE RENTALS FXBG eBike Tours.....................................................15 EBIKE TOURS FXBG eBike Tours.....................................................15

HVAC T. Elliott Heating & Air Conditioning........................... Front Inside Cover INTERIOR REMODELING Kitchen Tune Up...........................................................1

RECOMMENDED SERVICE DIRECTORY

KITCHEN REMODELING Kitchen Tune Up...........................................................1

SELF STORAGE FACILITY Discount Mini-Storage............................................23

LANDSCAPING Kenny Jenkins Tree Service & Landscaping..............................................................5 Shangri-La Gardens & Landscapes..............................................................15

STRENGTH TRAINING fit20 .................................................................................5

LAW CARE Shangri-La Gardens & Landscapes..............................................................15

TREE SERVICES Kenny Jenkins Tree Service & Landscaping..............................................................5 WILD FIRE PREVENTION Smokey Bear...................... Front Cover, Back Cover

NON PROFIT Alzheimer’s Association............ Back Inside Cover

WINDOW INSTALLATION Window World of Fredericksburg....................23

PET BOARDING B&R Kennels..................................................................5

WINDOWS Window World of Fredericksburg....................23

PET DAYCARE B&R Kennels..................................................................5 PLUMBER Workhouse Plumbing & Gas.................................19 PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATION Organization Direct................................................... 9 SEASONAL PROPERTY SERVICES Shangri-La Gardens & Landscapes..............................................................15