A Seat at the Table:
THE SISTERHOOD FUELING
FREDERICKSBURG’S NEXT ERA OF BUSINESS
© Best Version Media
© Best Version Media
Welcome to the May issue of Spotsylvania Living!
Spring is in full swing, and our community is buzzing!
Publication Team
This month, we’re proud to feature the women redefining what business looks like in our region. When over 100 entrepreneurs gathered at Eden Try Winery for the Power Players “In Full Bloom” event, something powerful happened: collaboration replaced competition and a sisterhood took root. We’re also shining a light on the Cyber Bytes Foundation, whose work continues to make a meaningful difference in our area. You’ll find their story alongside other highlights that capture the spirit of our region.
Whether you’re a longtime reader or picking up your first issue, we hope these pages inspire you to connect, support, and celebrate the people building something special here.
Happy reading,
Mallory Hardgrove
Feedback/Ideas/Submissions
Have feedback, ideas or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th 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
June 10
July 10
August 10
October 10
November 10
Crissy Hall Executive Assistant to the Publisher
Karie Owens Contributing Writer
Dori Stewart Publisher
Karen Presecan Photographer
Laura Anderson Designer Mora Soan Contributing Writer
Mallory Hardgrove Content Coordinator
Valynda Phifer Publisher’s Assistant
Liya Zewdu Contributing Writer
Liz Hensel Account Executive
© Best Version Media
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
ELECTRIC LAWN SERVICE
Aaron Johnson | Uncle Onion’s Electric, Organic Lawn Care 540-448-8446 uncleonionslawn.com
INSURANCE SERVICES
Kim Oztuna | Burke & Burke Insurance 540-736-1200 / 703-751-1001 burkeandburkeinsurance.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
PEST CONTROL
Grant Farley | Turbo Pest Control 540-220-8926 turbopest.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
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact BVM at doristewart@bestversionmedia.com or 540-288-7928.
© Best Version Media
SUMMER FUN MEANS SUMMER FLOORS
BY KARIE OWENS PHOTOS PROVIDED BY NK FLOORS
Summer is upon us, bringing puddles from wet swimsuits, sticky ice cream splatters, and foot traffic from summer cookouts and get-togethers. Doors stay open longer, kids run in and out, and pets track in water and dirt. With so much added activity, a home’s flooring becomes central to both function and style. Summer is the perfect time to consider whether your floors truly work for your lifestyle.
Various flooring types can help keep a home cooler. Hard surfaces like tile and stone naturally stay cooler underfoot, offering a refreshing break from the summer heat while still providing durability and style. Lighter-colored hardwoods and vinyl options can create a brighter, airier feel by reflecting natural light and visually opening up a space. With wet feet from the pool, backyard traffic, and increased foot traffic from guests, hard-surface flooring, especially LVP, accommodates summer fun. Water-resistant options like luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and modern laminate flooring are go-to choices for homeowners seeking both beauty and resilience. These materials resist moisture, scratches, and wear, making them ideal for kitchens, entryways, and family rooms where summer activity peaks.
Summer inspires a connection between indoor and outdoor living. Flooring plays a key role in creating that seamless flow. Choosing
complementary tones or materials that coordinate with outdoor spaces, such as patios or decks, can make your home feel larger and more cohesive. Wide-plank designs and natural wood tones add warmth while keeping the space relaxed and open. Another important factor to consider is maintenance. Low-maintenance materials such as vinyl, laminate, and tile let homeowners spend less time worrying about spills and more time enjoying the season. Easy cleanup, stain resistance, and long-term durability make these options especially appealing to busy families.
Finally, summer is an ideal time for a flooring upgrade. Longer days and generally drier weather can help installations run more smoothly, and completing a project now means your home will be ready for the busy fall and holiday seasons ahead. It’s also a great opportunity to update older flooring by replacing worn carpet or dated materials with something that better reflects your current style and needs. The right flooring can enhance every part of your summer lifestyle—from quiet mornings with coffee and crescent to lively evenings spent entertaining friends and family. Whether you’re looking for something cool underfoot, durable enough for heavy traffic, or simply a fresh look, investing in the right floors now can make all the difference. Reach out to NK Floors to make your summer fun begin with new floors!
© Best Version Media
A NEIGHBORHOOD AMBASSADOR!
BY LIZ HENSEL
Spotsylvania Living is in need of Neighborhood Ambassadors.
In an age where technology often distracts us from the world outside our front door, neighborhood ambassadors are a beacon of hope for building stronger, more connected communities. As a neighborhood ambassador your efforts and dedication to fostering unity among residents have a profound impact on the quality of life in our neighborhoods.
This is a great way to connect with other neighbors, promote local activities, and advocate for your community. If you are interested in becoming your neighborhood’s ambassador, please email mhardgrove@bestversionmedia.com.
© Best Version Media
NOT EVERY ENVIRONMENT IS FOR EVERY DOG
BY ADIA SHANEE
As the weather warms up, dogs are suddenly included in everything. Outdoor dining. Markets. Festivals. Errands. Social gatherings. And somewhere along the way, many guardians begin to believe: “My dog should be able to go everywhere with me.”
But here’s the reality: Not every environment is for every dog. And trying to make it so often creates the very stress we’re trying to avoid.
Picture this: You’re sitting at a busy outdoor patio. People are walking past closely. Servers move quickly between tables. Chairs scrape. Plates drop. Another dog passes within a few feet. Your dog is under the table.
They’re not relaxed. Their body is tight. They’re watching everything. They shift every time someone moves. They can’t fully settle.
They’re not misbehaving. They’re managing. And managing takes effort.
Now, multiply that by an entire afternoon.
What looks like inclusion from the outside can feel like sustained pressure on the inside. Dogs don’t always show stress by refusing to go. They stay. They tolerate. They push through. Until their system says otherwise.
That’s when you start to see:
• pulling on the way home
• heightened responses to small things
• restlessness later in the evening
• difficulty settling even after the day is over
Not because your dog needed more exposure, but because they needed less.
Home is not a limitation. Home is where your dog can fully exhale. Where they are not scanning, adjusting, or processing constant input. Where their body can return to baseline. And that matters.
Because confidence is not built by enduring everything. It’s built by having enough regulated experiences that the world doesn’t feel like something to survive.
This doesn’t mean your dog never goes anywhere. It means you choose environments that match your dog — not force your dog to match the environment. Shorter outings. More space. Clear exits.
And, most importantly, the ability to leave before it becomes too much.
That’s support.
Not every dog needs to be everywhere. They need to feel safe somewhere.
And sometimes, the most supportive decision you can make is to leave them where they can truly rest.
Behavior isn’t the enemy. It’s the invitation.
Spring Into Confidence on Leash with WagTime™
Intentional, behavior-informed movement for real-life dog-walking success. Paced, consent-based strolls that honor how your dog processes the world.
Build trust and familiarity with a relaxed Connection Visit. Book your first stroll and get 50% off a Connection Visit!
Learn more and sign up at www.woofhouze.com/wagtime.
© Best Version Media
A Seat at the Table: THE SISTERHOOD
FUELING
FREDERICKSBURG’S NEXT ERA OF BUSINESS
BY MALLORY HARDGROVE PHOTOGRAPHY BY CLEAN IMAGES BY TYRONE BROWN
Beata Alghabra Synergy Home Care 571.752.2991 fredericksburg.synergy homecare.com
Debra Balestreri Corgi Clay Art Center 540.628.2230 corgiclayartcenter.com
Aubry Blais
Thistle Medical Aesthetics 540.783.8209 thistlemedicalaesthetics.com
Rebecca Chanda House of Bloom
540.737.8464 houseofbloommed.com
Amirah Clowers
Naturalli Mi 571-310-3842 naturallimi.com
When Dori Stewart looked out at Eden Try Winery that morning, she saw what she’d worked toward for years: over 100 women—business owners, builders, healers, artists, educators, entrepreneurs—had gathered not to compete, but to celebrate. The energy was immediate and unmistakable: “The energy in that room was electric,”
Dori Stewart, founder of FXBG Neighbors, said. “Over 100 women showed up, and you could just feel it the moment you walked in. There was this incredible mix of excitement, warmth, and genuine connection. Nobody was performing or posturing. Everyone was just there to celebrate each other — and that made all the difference.”
The Power Players “In Full Bloom” event didn’t just bring together women business leaders; it also inspired meaningful connections and elevated the visibility of women shaping the region’s economy. The results were profound: participants experienced new collaborations, discovered resources, and left with renewed purpose for their businesses.
The setting itself encouraged genuine interaction and facilitated impactful networking. Morning mimosas, tea, and charcuterie, a flower bar, photo booth fun, and the winery’s warmth created a space where business own-
ers could connect without the typical elevator pitch or rehearsed speech. Many attendees mentioned forming partnerships and finding encouragement to pursue new opportunities beyond the event.
A Sisterhood in Full Bloom
Ask anyone who was there how they would describe the atmosphere, and the same words kept surfacing: warm, welcoming, sisterhood. For many women, it was their first time in a room filled entirely with fellow women entrepreneurs from the FXBG region — and the experience was quietly transformative.
© Best Version Media
“The atmosphere was welcoming and warm. It felt like a true sisterhood,” said Sha’ahn Williams, owner of Body Thief Body Sculpting. “I met some amazing women and made some lasting connections. We need this for our area.”
For Patricia Grant, agency owner at Farmers Insurance, attending the event opened her eyes to a side of Fredericksburg she hadn’t known before — both the community of women it holds and the hidden gems tucked within it.
“This was my first time being in a room filled with the community of women entrepreneurs in the FXBG area, and it was like a sisterhood,” she said. “The hidden treasures in Fredericksburg are unreal — I would not have known about the [Eden Try] Winery if I hadn’t attended this event.”
Amirah Clowers, founder of Naturalli Mi, a wellness brand rooted in natural healing and self-care, felt the room’s authenticity the moment she arrived.
- Maria Negron
“It wasn’t just an event,” she remarked. “It felt like a space where women were truly seen, celebrated, and encouraged. What stood out most was how openly women shared their journeys — including both the wins and the challenges. That level of honesty created a real sense of connection.”
From these stories, a clear theme emerged: many chose collaboration over competition.
At Power Players, a single message stood out: there is space for every woman to succeed. While the world sometimes pits women against each other, this group has chosen collaboration to drive lasting change.
“I genuinely believe that when one of us wins, we all win. My whole platform is built around shining a light on other people,” Dori Stewart emphasized. “There is no scarcity here. There is more than enough room for all of us.”
That mindset was echoed across professions and industries throughout the morning. Dr. Katrina Spies, veterinarian and owner of Comfort Paws, put it plainly: “I embrace collaboration because the mission is bigger than any single practice or practitioner. With so many pets in our community needing help, competition only serves to limit our collective impact. By working together, we strengthen our ability to serve more families.”
© Best Version Media
Nicole McDaniel
Kevin’s Roofing
540.373.2463 kevinsroofing.com
Maggie McIntyre Rejuvalase Medspa 540.720.8881 rejuvalese.com
Stephanie Michael GEM Realty 540-940-6440 gemrealty.co
Maria Negron Hit the Spot Kitchen 540.479.1687 hitthespotkitchen.com
Linda Osorio Bear River Massage & Yoga 540.356.5535 bearriverspayoga.com
Karie Owens NK Floors 540.582.4000 nkfloors.com
Kim Oztuna Burke & Burke Insurance 540.736.1200 / 703.751.1001 burkeandburkeinsurance.com
Jennifer Peyton Burg Charcuterie 916.749.0940 burgcharcuterie.com
Karen Presecan
Karen Presecan Photography karen@kpresecanphotography.com kpresecanphotography.com
Debra Balestreri, owner and artist at Corgi Clay Art Center, has spent three years cultivating her own community within the art world — and sees connection as the engine of growth.
“I often ask other gallery owners, art center operators, and artists to visit and chat with us and be a part of our programming when possible,” she said. “That’s how you grow valuable connections. It feels great to be acknowledged for the hard work we do — and I think all these women get that.”
Kat Halstead, who credits this very mindset with inspiring the launch of her second business, Chatham Heights Beauty Company, summed it up with the kind of conviction that only comes from lived experience: “At the top, we collab, we don’t compete. We help each other grow and look out for each other’s best interests, not just our own,” she said. “If you want to go fast, go alone — but if you want to go far, we go together.”
Being Seen Changes Everything
Running a business can be isolating. Long hours, high risks, and little recognition are common. For many women, Power Players created something rare: a space to be truly seen and valued.
“Being part of this community means everything to me,” Rami Thompson, owner and photographer of Black Lace Boudoir, said. “Running a business can feel isolating at times, so being surrounded by other women who understand the highs, the challenges, and the heart behind it all is incredibly meaningful.”
Karen Presecan, another photographer [Karen Presecan Photography] who views her peers as colleagues rather than competitors, noted that what FXBG Neighbors has built here is something she hasn’t encountered before in her years of networking. “I’ve been a part of networking groups in the past, and I am amazed at what Dori has created,” she said. “Her heart and hustle are like no other.”
Kim Oztuna of Burke & Burke Insurance, who is new to community networking in the area, was also moved by what she discovered: “It is collaborations like this that give us all that special recognition that we are being seen, and what we contribute to the community really does make a difference. I am thankful to be a part of such an amazing group of women in the Fredericksburg area.”
Maria Negron, who balances both a therapy practice and Hit the Spot Kitchen, offered perhaps the most precise articulation of what makes this community different: “This isn’t just networking — it’s being present and empowering change. It’s women showing up for each other in business and in life. It’s about building community with intention.”
© Best Version Media
Jenny Jones, owner of D&G Expressions, put an even finer point on it: “It’s a fantastic support system of women helping women succeed.” Jennifer Peyton, owner of Burg Charcuterie, who spent part of the morning finally meeting women she had only known online, summed up her experience with a feeling she hadn’t expected: pride.
“Just looking out at all of those beautiful faces and being so proud to be among these women I look up to,” Jennifer said, “and proud [of myself] hearing how some women look up to me.”
A Movement, Not a Moment
As conversations lingered, laughter and photographs were shared, and flowers were arranged, it became clear: this was not just another event. It was the beginning of a movement to unite and empower women in Fredericksburg.
Dori Stewart, who looked out at that room full of women she had spent years working to bring together, already knows what comes next.
“Seeing so many women who had built something from nothing, showing up for each other without hesitation — that is what I will carry with me. This community does not just talk about supporting women in business. They actually show up. Power Players is not a one-time event. It is a movement — and we are just getting started. If you are a woman building something in this region, there is a seat at this table for you.”
A seat is open. The sisterhood is strong. And, in Fredericksburg, a new era of collaboration and empowerment is blooming.
It’s not just networking, it’s connection with intention. Everyone is so intentional about connecting one another to another piece of the community where either they can support you or you can support them.
- Charlie Evans
Alesa Riendeau
Cozy Llama Design, Co. Cozyllamadesign.com 540-227-0002
Angela Richwine Central Virginia OMT Centralvirginiaomt.com 540-369-6044
Becky Hamm Women Lead Well Womenleadwell.net 703-420-5868
Britt Valentine Valentine Financial Group valentinefinancialgroup.com 540-684-3035
Charmain (Charlie) Evans Faithfully Fit & Frugal LLC faithfullyfitandfrugal.com 202-378-7246
Debby Girvan Flair Communication Flaircommunication.com 540-940-2801
Erica Mynar Girl Time, LLC girltimellc.glossgenius.com 540-369-2747
Dr. Julie Armstrong 3H Leadership Consulting 3hleadership.com 540-369-2540
Jennifer McCranie Veteran Empires Integrated Wellness Veteranempires.com 575-640-3681
Karen Koudelka Virginia Home Care Partners virginiahomecarepartners.com 540-419-1615
Katie Duvall Window World of Fredericksburg windowworldfredericksburg.com 540-834-4244
Maria Smith, LPC Serenity Therapy Services LLC mariasmithlpc.com 540-348-3633
Tammy Reid Union Home Mortgage uhm.com/jreid 540-840-9282
Woodly Claircius Fenelus Whetzel Fenelus Wealth Counsel, PLLC virginiawealthcounsel.com 571-720-5195
© Best Version Media
Visit us in our new downtown Cheese Garden & Wine Lounge
703 Caroline Street
MONDAY - WEDNESDAY: CLOSED
THURSDAY: 12PM - 8PM
FRIDAY - SATURDAY: 12PM - 9PM
SUNDAY: 12PM - 5PM
events | catering | workshops
Boards, boxes, & grazing tables.
Serving Fredericksburg, VA & surrounding areas.
CONTACT US NOW: www.burgcharcuterie.com
and
BUILDING BRIDGES TO THE FUTURE: THE CYBER BYTES FOUNDATION
BY MALLORY HARDGROVE PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE CYBER BYTES FOUNDATION
In a region where technology careers are among the fastest-growing — and fastest-changing — one organization is making sure no one gets left behind. The Cyber Bytes Foundation, based in Stafford County, is on a mission to connect students, educators, and professionals to real-world pathways in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. Leading that charge is Executive Director NancyLynn Rose Pattillo, whose passion for the work is both professional and deeply personal.
“Talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not,” Pattillo says, highlighting the foundational belief of everything the Foundation does. Through camps, certifications, workshops, and industry partnerships, Cyber Bytes works to close that gap, creating hands-on experiences that translate directly into careers. Pattillo came to the Foundation with years of experience in workforce development, grant strategy, and partnership building. But her commitment to this work and the catalyst behind it goes beyond a résumé. As the parent of a child with special needs who excels in STEM, she has seen firsthand how the right environment can transform a life. “That experience has deepened my commitment to creating inclusive pathways in fields like artificial intelligence and cybersecurity,” she explains. “I’m motivated by the opportunity to remove barriers, connect people to high-demand careers, and build systems that allow innovative programs to scale and truly serve the community.”
That philosophy of access and inclusion shapes every program the Foundation offers. Rather than waiting for students to come to them, Cyber Bytes goes where the need is through their mobile training units, community-based programs, and partnerships with schools and workforce organizations across Region 6, including Stafford, Spotsylvania, Fredericksburg, and King George. Each year, the Foundation serves hundreds of residents directly and reaches thousands more through events and regional initiatives, with its impact extending across the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Central to the Foundation’s model is the belief that education, industry, and government should not operate in isolation. “By bringing these sectors together, we create a connected ecosystem where learning is practical, skills are relevant, and individuals can see a clear path from education to employment,” Pattillo says. It’s a systems-level approach — one focused not just on teaching, but on empowering.
For Pattillo, the most inspiring moments come from the students themselves. “I am most inspired by the students who are determined to pursue meaningful careers without following a traditional higher education path, as well as those who face barriers but still show up ready to learn and grow,”
© Best Version Media
she shares. Whether it’s a first certification earned, a passion for technology discovered, or the realization that a career in AI or cybersecurity is genuinely within reach, those milestones are what drive the team forward.
This summer, the Foundation is channeling that energy into its 2026 Cyber Titan STEM Summer Camps, where more than 200 students will gain hands-on experience in AI, robotics, cybersecurity, drones, 3D printing, and engineering. “These aren’t just camps,” Pattillo says. “They’re opportunities for students to build real technology, explore future careers, and take home what they create,” Pattillo says. For many participants, it will be their first exposure to advanced STEM tools and the careers that go with them. The Foundation is actively partnering with community organizations and sponsors to ensure cost is never the barrier that keeps a student from attending.
Behind all of it is a small, tight-knit team — Sarah, Desiree, Sylvester, Matt, and Cam — supported by volunteers and a dedicated board of directors. The culture they’ve built is one of hustle, humor, and heart. “Our unofficial mantra is simple: show up, figure it out, and support each other,” Pattillo says. “That mindset keeps us moving forward, keeps things light when they need to be, and reminds us that even on the busiest days, we’re building something that truly matters.”
For families, students, or businesses looking to get involved, the Cyber Bytes Foundation welcomes the community to join them. Whether you’re a parent seeking a meaningful summer experience, a student curious about where technology could take you, or an employer ready to invest in the next generation of talent, there’s a place for you in this work.
To learn more about the Cyber Bytes Foundation, its summer camps, internships, and workforce training programs, visit them online at cyberbytesfoundation.org.
© Best Version Media
LEADING WITH PURPOSE: SPOTSYLVANIA SUPERINTENDENT
SPEAKS CANDIDLY ON STUDENTS, TEACHERS, AND EQUITY
BY LIYA ZEWDU PHOTO COURTESY OF SUPERINTENDENT MITCHELL
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.
Spotsylvania County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Clint Mitchell spoke candidly about the realities facing today’s students and educators, offering insight on topics from student engagement and mental health to teacher shortages, discrimination, and artificial intelligence in education.
Dr. Mitchell explained that student engagement is measured by a combination of attendance, academic performance, behavior, and family involvement. “One of the things that we look at is weekly chronic absenteeism data,” he said. “We look to see where we have the highest pockets of kids who are not coming to school.”
Student mental health remains one of the most pressing challenges facing schools today. Dr. Mitchell noted that students who were in early childhood during COVID-19 often missed foundational social and academic experiences, contributing to increased behavior and emotional challenges. “Some students didn’t have the opportunity to go to preschool or kindergarten, and those [students] missed foundational matters,” he said.
While every school has counselors and social workers, Dr. Mitchell acknowledged that students often confide in peers instead. “Kids don’t always go to the counselor,” he said. “They tell their friends.” To address this, the district uses an anonymous tip line, and Dr. Mitchell is preparing to launch a 24hour tele-health mental health service from Gaggle Health. “Any student who wants to talk to a counselor outside of the school day can just pick up the phone,” he said.
Dr. Mitchell also spoke about the challenges he has faced as one of the first Black superintendents in Spotsylvania County. Born on the Caribbean island of St. Lucia, he immigrated to the U.S. at 14. “Less than two percent of superintendents in the county are Black,” he said. “Whether you’re the first or one of few, it comes with great responsibility.”
He described receiving hurtful emails in his first week, sharing, “Those were probably some of the saddest days of my life because they really
don’t know me.” He emphasized that staying silent would only normalize discrimination.
“If I don’t say something about it, then I’m perpetuating the fact that it’s okay to do that to superintendents, much less a Black foreign superintendent.”
On teacher shortages, Dr. Mitchell acknowledged a nationwide struggle. “Teacher recruitment across the country is a concern because we don’t produce enough teachers in our colleges.” The division has responded by recruiting internationally — bringing in 35 teachers this year alone — and pushing for higher pay to improve retention.
Dr. Mitchell has also championed integrating AI into classrooms through Google Gemini, firmly rejecting the notion that it only enables cheating. “We launched it not for kids to abuse it or to cheat, but to be ready for the outside world.” He views AI as a support tool: “It is not about replacing labor, it is about enhancing labor.”
He also voiced concern over Virginia’s new SOL passing score increases under Governor Glenn Youngkin. “I wholeheartedly disagree with this idea of raising the cut scores so drastically. We are moving the goalpost in the middle of the game.” While supportive of academic rigor, he stressed: “We’ve got to provide the resources for it.”
Long term, Dr. Mitchell hopes to leave a lasting mark on Spotsylvania. “When I take a job, I’m in it for a minimum of five years because you cannot see true change in an organization unless you are there between three to five years.”
Above all, he remains grounded in his purpose beyond any title. “There’s nothing like being in a classroom with kids.”
May- June Upcoming Events
FRI., MAY 1
First Friday
@Downtown FXBG
Time: 5- 9pm 601 Caroline St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401
WED., MAY 6
Knitting Club at Madame’s @Madame’s Oddities
Time: 5- 7pm
2011 Princess Anne St., Suite 101 Fredericksburg, VA 22401
WED., MAY 6
Mother’s Day Wooden Bowl Sip & Pour Candle Making Workshop
@1781 Brewing Company
Time: 7- 9pm 11109 Plank Rd. Spotsylvania, VA 22553
FRI., MAY 8
Give It a Spin! Workshop
@Corgi Clay Art Center
Time: 5- 6:30pm 15 Tech Pkwy. Stafford, VA 22556 Tickets: corgiclayartcenter.com/class-list
SAT., MAY 9
Cars & Coffee
@Gari Melchers Home and Studio
Time: 8- 11am 224 Washington St. Falmouth, VA 22405
SAT., MAY 9
Kids Story Time at Tales & Tails
@Tales & Tails
Time: 10- 11am 1010 Charles St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401
SAT., MAY 9
4th Annual Downtown Flower Crawl
@Fredericksburg Visitor Center
Time: 3- 7pm
601 Caroline St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401
SUN., MAY 10
Mother’s Day Brunch & Line Dancing
@Eden Try Winery
Time: 12- 3pm
6818 River Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22407
© Best Version Media
THURS., MAY 14
Barks & Recreation: DIY Dog Toy
@Fredericksburg Dog Park
Time: 6- 8pm
1448 Kenmore Ave. Fredericksburg, VA 22401
SAT., MAY 16
Mora Soan- Book Signing
@CRRL- Spotsylvania Towne Center Branch Time: 10am- 1pm
390 Spotsylvania Mall Dr. Fredericksburg, VA 22407
SAT., MAY 16
Swing Dance
@Pickler’s Supply Time: 7:30- 11pm 902 Caroline St.
SUN., MAY 17
Sensory Friendly Morning
@George Washington’s Ferry Farm Time: 10am- 12pm
FRI., MAY 22
Sunshine Concert Series
@Eden Try Winery Time: 6- 8pm 6818 River Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22407
SAT., MAY 23
Standup Comedy
@Laudenbach Brewing Time: 8- 9:30pm 45 Centreport Pkwy., Unit #101 Fredericksburg, VA 22406
SUN., MAY 24
Book Vase Painting + Flower Bar
@Curated FXBG
Time: 10- 11:30am 817 Caroline St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401
WED., MAY 27
Cat Café Pop-Up
@Stafford County Animal Shelter
Time: 9:30am- 1:30pm
26 Frosty Ln. Stafford, VA 22554
THURS., MAY 28
Monthly Open Pinball Tournament
@Reclaim Arcade Time: 6:30- 10pm
2324 Plank Road Fredericksburg, VA 22401
SAT., MAY 30
Family Day
@James Monroe Museum Time: 10am- 3pm
908 Charles St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401
TUES., JUNE 2
Picnic in the Park: Mermaids & Sea Creatures Day
@Memorial Park
Time: 11:30am- 1:30pm 1401 Kenmore Ave. Fredericksburg, VA 22401
WED., JUNE 3
Knitting Club at Madame’s @Madame’s Oddities
Time: 5- 7pm
2011 Princess Anne St., Suite 101 Fredericksburg, VA 22401
FRI., JUNE 5
First Friday
@Downtown FXBG
Time: 5- 9pm
601 Caroline St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401
MULTIPLE DAY EVENTS
SAT., MAY 9- SUN., JUNE 7
Virginia Renaissance Faire
@Virginia Renaissance Faire
Time: 10am- 5pm (Every Saturday & Sunday)
5621 Courthouse Rd. Spotsylvania, VA 22551
SAT., JUNE 6- SUN., JUNE 7
Fredericksburg Greek Festival
@Nativity of the Theotokos Greek Orthodox Church Time: 11am- 8pm (Sat.); 12- 4pm (Sun.)
12326 Spotswood Furnace Rd. Spotsylvania, VA 22407
*At the time this magazine went to print, all event times and locations were accurate, but please check event websites for the most current information. Some events may have been postponed or canceled.
Mother’s Day
Painted Oui Yogurt Cup Vase
Materials:
☐ 1 empty Oui yogurt glass cup, cleaned and dried
☐ Acrylic paint or washable craft paint
© Best Version Media
BY MORA SOAN, AUTHOR OF THE SERIES: ADVENTURES OF JACOB THE GNOME
☐ Paintbrushes ☐ Mod Podge
Fresh flowers (real or artificial)
☐ Optional: ribbon, stickers, gems, or a small gift tag
Directions:
1. Clean the cup. Wash the Oui yogurt cup and let it dry completely.
2. Paint the vase white several times.
3. Let it dry. Allow the paint to dry fully. Add a second coat if needed.
4. Paint fun pictures or image that mom likes.
5. Optional base coat. Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge over the paint and let it dry. This helps smooth and seal the design before spraying.
(Optional) Decorate!
Add a ribbon or a handmade tag. Add flowers or herbs. Give it to Mom.
Your handmade vase is ready for Mother’s Day!
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. Mora is also excited to share that her newest book, Jacob in Hawaii, is now available on Amazon.
