Warrenton Lifestyle Magazine August 2026

FROM THE EDITOR

It’s August again…time to reveal the winners of our Best of Fauquier contest. In this issue that celebrates the best of our local business community, unfortunately we also mourn one of the best in the local photojournalistic community.

Rappahannock Media was saddened this month by the passing of longtime photojournalist Doug Graham, whose extensive career behind the camera included freelance contributions to several of our publications (see page 95).

Doug worked with us when we published the Piedmont Virginian Magazine, contributing several memorable photo essays. His images told compelling stories, often supplemented by only brief captions for clarification. Looking back through his work reminds us how powerful photography can be — not simply to illustrate a story, but to tell the story itself.

As editors, we usually think first in terms of words. Warrenton Lifestyle is filled with stories told through writing and supplemented by photographs. But magazines should be, by their nature, visual. No reader wants to turn the page and be confronted by a solid “wall of text,” and sometimes a photograph can communicate something that would take paragraphs to describe.

Send your first-day-of-school photos and stories to pam@warrentonlifestyle.com.

roots. The expressions, animals, competitions and moments he captured tell the story of the fair in a way words alone never could.

And soon, families across Fauquier County will be documenting another annual tradition: the first day of school.

Whether kids are excited to head back, reluctant to see summer end or a little apprehensive about what the new year will bring, local parents will be reaching for their cameras to capture these moments even as their children grow up oh-so-quickly.

We’d love to see yours.

Send us your first-day-of-school photos, and we’ll share a selection in our September issue. Include your name and town, along with your children’s names, grades and schools. And if there’s a story about how that first day went, we’d love to hear that, too.

Doug understood that exceptionally well. That’s one reason I like to include photo essays in the magazine from time to time. In this issue, photographer Luke Christopher takes us to the Fauquier Fair, a longtime county tradition that celebrates our agricultural heritage and reminds us of our rural

WARRENTON LIFESTYLE

Celebration of Fauquier County

PUBLISHER

Dennis Brack

dennis@warrentonlifestyle.com

EDITOR

Pam Kamphuis pam@warrentonlifestyle.com

ART DIRECTOR

Kara Thorpe kara@warrentonlifestyle.com

ADVERTISING

Sales Director: Jim Kelly jim@warrentonlifestyle.com, 434-987-3542

Multimedia Marketing Specialist: Tony Haugan thaugan@fauquiernow.com, 540-672-8547

CREATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR

Jay Ford creative@warrentonlifestyle.com

ACCOUNTING

Carina Richard-Wheat cwheat@insidenova.com 540-905-7791

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Email: subscribe@warrentonlifestyle.com 540-675-3338

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICE

Warrenton Lifestyle Magazine 70 Main Street (by appointment only) Warrenton, VA 20186 • 540-349-2951 ON THE WEB

FauquierNow.com/lifestyle

Facebook: @FauquierNow, @WarrentonLifestyleMagazine Email Newsletter: Sign up at FauquierNow.com

Wishing all Fauquier kids – and their parents – a wonderful school year.

EDITOR Pam Kamphuis pam@warrentonlifestyle.com

The Warrenton Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and distributed to over 11,500 selected addresses. While reasonable care is taken with all material submitted to The Warrenton Lifestyle Magazine, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to any such material. Opinions expressed in articles are strictly those of the authors. While ensuring that all published information is accurate, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any mistakes or omissions. Reproduction in whole or part of any of the text, illustration or photograph is strictly forbidden. ©2026 Rappahannock Media LLC.

The Lifestyle magazines is a sister publication with Fauquier County's Leading Online News Source, FAUQUIERNOW.COM Visit us for the latest local news, calendar, classifieds, obituaries, real estate announcements, newsletter sign up, Warrenton Lifestyle content, and more.

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In photos: Fauquier Fair 2026

Family is the secret ingredient in Blackstone Honey

Morven

The great dorm divide: Sons vs. daughters

Sublime hydration:: Minted watermelon agua fresca is the perfect pour for hot summer days BY CHEF ASHA CLARE

RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT

Frozen Yogi in Old Town is much more than summer treats BY BROOKE ARTHUR

Screaming Goats Farm & Brewery blends craft beverages with a playground atmosphere

Fauquier’s top 10 home sales

Remembering longtime local photojournalist ON THE COVER

Chris Morton, owner of Best of Fauquier winner Morton’s Barber Shop in Remington, with son Avery. Photo by Luke Christopher

Best Bets

Meet the Artist: Vicki Baylor

Friday, Aug. 7, 5:30 p.m. 81 Main St., Warrenton Visitors can discover the vibrant world of Vicki Baylor, whose oil and acrylic works are on display throughout August. Guests may meet the artist and experience her unique textures at this new exhibition. All are welcome.

“Farmily” Farm Festival

Saturday, Aug. 8, 10 a.m. Fauquier Education Farm, 8428 Meetze Road, Warrenton Celebrate community at the Fauquier Education Farm’s open house. Enjoy family-friendly games, educational programs and insights into the “Farm-ily” that keeps local food banks stocked. Admission is free.

Main Street Walking Tour

Saturday, Aug. 15, 11 a.m. Fauquier History Museum at the Old Jail, 10 Ashby St., Warrenton

Step back in time on a guided walking tour of historic Main Street with author and historian Don Schupp. Explore the courthouse, local architecture and fascinating stories, including President Roosevelt’s connection to town.

Family Movie Night

Erin’s Elderberries, 4257 Aiken Dr., Ste. D, Warrenton Friday, Aug. 21, 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Enjoy a free, outdoor movie night under the stars at Erin's Elderberries. Bring blankets and chairs for the dusk screening. The shop will remain open offering milkshakes, snacks and drinks throughout the evening.

All Ages

Self-Defense Class

Saturday, Aug. 22, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Vint Hill Community Center, 4235 Aiken Dr., Warrenton

Build a foundation for self-defense and learn how to protect yourself and others around you. This FREE workshop focuses on mindset and situational awareness for ages 12+. Explore how to avoid being a victim by using physical tactics to defend yourself if attacked. Workshop is taught by former Town of Warrenton Police Officer George Southard. Please Wear Tennis Shoes And Comfortable Clothes. Scan the QR code above register online.

Magic or Science?

Saturday, Aug. 22, 6 p.m. Warrenton United Methodist Church, 341 Church St., Warrenton

Question reality at a family-friendly night of magic featuring Joe Romano. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for a 6 p.m. show. Admission is free, with donations accepted.

Spanish Horse Summit

Warrenton Horse Show Grounds, 60 E. Shirley Ave., Warrenton Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 22–23

Experience the pinnacle of equestrian excellence at the Spanish Horse Summit. Olympic rider José Daniel Martín Dockx headlines this event which features high-level exhibitions, competitions and technical workshops celebrating the Pura Raza Española horse. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the one who has taken the prestige of the PRE to the world's biggest stages!

Smoked Meat Competition

6317 Vint Hill Road, Warrenton Sunday, Aug. 23, 11:30 a.m.

Test your pit mastery at the upcoming Smoked Meat Competition. Show off your best pulled pork or ribs— no shortcuts allowed. Interested in bringing a side dish? Sign up online.

Old Bust Head Car Show

Old Bust Head Brewing Company, 7134 Farm Station Road, Warrenton Saturday, Sept. 5, noon to 4 p.m.

What to do? There's lots going on in our area — and there's never enough time! This page and our free weekly Best Bets email newsletter (scan the code below to subscribe) aims to help you make plans and have fun. COMMUNITY CALENDAR: Hosting an event? Add it to the calendar at no charge and it may be chosen for Best Bets! FauquierNow.com

Start your engines for the annual Old Bust Head Brewing Company Car Show. Whether you have a custom cruiser or an antique truck, register now to show off your ride and enjoy live music by the Surf Junkies and Eric Misa, plus local brews and food from Sexi Mexi Burritos and Jackleg Pizza. Advance vehicle registration recommended.

52nd Virginia Scottish Games

Great Meadow, 5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 5–6

Experience Scotland in The Plains at the 52nd annual Scottish Games. Catch the Scots-only Highland Athletic Competition featuring professional athletes from across North America who have recently competed in World Championships. Enjoy piping and drumming contests, heavy athletics, highland dance, fiddling and more. Think you have Scottish roots? Meet the clans and societies to trace your heritage, learn about your family tartan and discover your connection to Scotland.

Let’s Volunteer!

Tutor

The Plains Community League is a volunteer-based nonprofit dedicated to building a strong, connected, and supportive community by providing free programs and services for children, families, seniors, and adults throughout The Plains and the surrounding area. Volunteer tutors play an important role in that mission by providing academic support and encouragement to elementary, middle, and high school students during the League's free after-school tutoring program. Tutoring takes place at the John Page Turner House in The Plains from 3:15 to 5:30 p.m., giving volunteers the opportunity to help students build confidence, strengthen their skills, and achieve greater success in school while making a lasting impact in the community.

The Plains Community League

6473 Main St., The Plains 540-253-2119 • PCL20198@gmail.com

This ongoing feature highlights some of the countless time and talent volunteer opportunities in Fauquier County and nearby. In this we hope to bring awareness not only to the needs of our neighbors and the organizations that help but the many ways you can be a part of strengthening even more what is already an impressive community.

Garden Support Team

The Remington Community Garden is seeking volunteers to help care for more than 160 vegetable plants that provide fresh produce for the Little Free Veggie Wagon and local residents experiencing food insecurity. Volunteers assist with watering, weeding and harvesting throughout the growing season, helping ensure the garden continues to nourish the community. Each volunteer is paired with an experienced Master Gardener and typically serves one flexible two-hour shift each week. This family-friendly, outdoor opportunity is open to volunteers ages 14 and older and is a rewarding way to make a tangible difference while enjoying time in the garden.

The Remington Community Garden

160 West Bowen St., Remington

Yuri.cole@icloud.com

For more opportunities to help, check the PATH Foundation’s Volunteer Hub database at letsvolunteer.org or inquire at another nearby nonprofit or organization that relies on volunteer assistance.

Are you an organization in need of volunteers? Email editor@warrentonlifestyle.com with information.

The 2026 FAUQUIER

COUNTY

COUNTY FAIR FAUQUIER

These photos capture the sights, sounds and small-town spirit that make the Fauquier County Fair one of the season’s best-loved events. BY LUKE

A roundup of updates, business news, and odds and ends from around Fauquier

Rainbow Therapeutic Riding Center gets a boost with new, $77K waterline

BY JACK BOWMAN

Last month, the Rainbow Therapeutic Riding Center, a nonprofit that provides equine-assisted activities to people with disabilities and other challenges, celebrated the completion of a $77,000 waterline installation at the center.

The project, a donation from the Heavy Construction Contractors Association Leadership Class of 2026 as its annual community service endeavor, connected the facility to municipal water.

Speaking in place of Inga Janke, the center’s executive director, Program Director

Maddie Gierber said the project is essential to the mission of Rainbow Therapeutic, which serves over 300 families annually from Prince William, Fauquier and Rappahannock counties.

“This waterline sounds like just a utility project,” Gierber said, “but it is what makes places like this function and what helps us be able to serve the community and the people that we do.”

Gierber said the installation provides a “consistent, reliable water supply” for horse care, cleaning barns and equipment, sup -

During a tour following a July 9, 2026, ribbon-cutting ceremony, Rainbow Therapeutic Riding Center Program Director Maddie Gierber introduces the tour group to Denver, a former jumper from the Netherlands.

porting restroom operations and ensuring proper care of the facility's grounds. Prior to the waterline's completion, the riding center relied on a well.

According to Ashley Hutson, the director of membership engagement for the contractors association, former association president David Hazel recommended the project. Each year, a service initiative is chosen to help a local municipality or nonprofit. According to Hutson, the main criteria is addressing an unfunded need that will serve the community.

In addition to the donation from the contractors association, the initial $6,000 the riding center paid for permits and project planning was funded by a donation from The Loeb Foundation. According to the foundation’s website, it provides “financial support to local charitable organizations located in and adjacent to Fauquier County, Virginia.”

Mark your calendar: Goddard Discovery Day

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26BEST OF FAUQUIER THE

BEST FAUQUIER 2026

THE BEST

Every year, our August issue announcing the annual Best of Fauquier results is our biggest and most eagerly awaited issue.

This year, we had a record-breaking turnout with 124,378 votes cast (compared to 86,462 last year) by 9,474 voters (100 more than last year’s total). That’s a lot of people who took the time to support their favorite businesses by voting. Thanks for participating!

Some businesses win their categories year after year, and we support these longtime businesses who have gained such popularity through excellent service to the community.

Sometimes, though, there is a new winner, either a new business in town or a longtime business that wins for the first time, and we love those surprises too.

But Best of Fauquier only scratches the surface of the wealth of businesses in our community. Often, the votes are very close and we wish we could recognize everyone who makes this such a business-friendly community because there are so many special places here.

Many, many thanks to all the businesses in the county, and thank you, Fauquier County, for supporting them!

Chick's Services has provided the Warrenton community with honest, fair and friendly automotive maintenance and repairs since 1967. Wesley and his crew go above and beyond to take care of their customers. Whether your vehicle needs a state Inspection, oil change, routine maintenance or big repairs, you can always count on Chick's Services.

Busy Bee Cleaning

Busy Bee Cleaning has proudly delivered trusted residential and commercial cleaning services since 2001. This family-owned company provides customized cleaning solutions with exceptional attention to detail, dependable service and lasting results, creating healthier, cleaner and more welcoming homes and workplaces.

335 Waterloo St., Warrenton P: 540-428-2376

W: dokklaus.com

Dok's team of technicians CARES about your data. They find custom solutions for residential and small business IT needs, offering PC repairs, data recovery, virus removal, PC setups, networking, remote support, house calls, computer classes and more. Serving Fauquier and the surrounding counties since 2002.

I would like to thank everyone who took the time to vote for Bettis Tree Solutions. We certainly appreciate all the opportunities we have had over the years. There are many great companies in this area as we applaud them as well. We will continue to do our best and most importantly “let your light so shine” Matthew 5 vs 16

Front Royal, VA

Woodbridge, VA

Warrenton, VA

Culpeper County, VA

Charlotesville, VA

Gainesville, VA

Stafford, VA

Nokesville, VA

54 E. Lee St., Suite 100, Warrenton

P: 540-200-8749

W: castle-insurance.com

The Castle Insurance Agency is a local independent insurance agency that simplifies insurance tailoring coverage to meet your needs and budget. They are experts in risk management for business insurance, home, auto and more, while providing a concierge-style approach.

Law Office of Marie Washington, PLC

67 W. Lee St., Unit 102, Warrenton

P: 540-347-4172

W: mariewashingtonlaw.com

The Law Office of Marie Washington, PLC provides expert legal support with a personal touch. The general practice firm handles family law, equine law, personal injury, business disputes, estate planning and various other aspects of the law. They fight to protect your rights through complex situations. Trust their experienced team to deliver reliable solutions.

MORTGAGE BROKER

Becky Miller, Piedmont Fine Properties

25 S. 4th St., Suite 200, Warrenton

P: 540-347-5277

W: piedmontfineproperty.com

Becky Miller, Realtor and owner at Piedmont Fine Properties, is known for her local expertise, strong negotiation skills and personalized service. With over 20 years of experience, she enjoys helping her clients navigate the process of buying, selling and investing in real estate.

CHILDSERVICES

CAMP/SUMMER PROGRAM

Dreams of Dance

SCHOOL

Saint John the Evangelist Catholic School

111 John E. Mann St., Warrenton P: 540-347-2458

W: sjesva.org

MUMPS

Preschool)

BODY RELAX CENTRE

Tissue, Swedish, Foot & Couples

Saint John the Evangelist Catholic School is honored to be named the Best School. Serving students from preschool through 8th grade, the school provides a loving, gospelcentered education rooted in faith, academic excellence, service and strong family partnerships that nurture both hearts and minds.

Morton’s Barbershop

Christopher Morton 225 E. Main St., Remington P: 540-497-3992 W: The Cut App

Please tell us about your business.

Morton’s Barbershop offers haircuts, braiding, scalp micropigmentation, microblading and hair coloring How long have you been in business in Fauquier County?

Six years

FAVORITES:

FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT AND DISH: Craft & Crust, The Summerduck pizza

FAVORITE LOCAL DRINK SPOT: Goodness and Grace

FAVORITE LOCAL RECREATION ACTIVITY: Galaxy Bowling

FAVORITE LOCAL NONPROFIT

ORGANIZATION: The Gathering Church

What has been your company’s biggest challenge? And your biggest milestone? Our biggest challenge has been creating and setting our culture to look and be different from any other barbershop. Our biggest milestone has been being voted Fauquier County’s best barbershop two years running!

Why do you think our readers love your business enough to vote it “Best of”?

I think it’s because we have a business that speaks to the whole community. Every barber at Morton’s can service anyone that walks in the door. That, coupled with the atmosphere we have set, makes us unique. It feels like one big family. Why do you love doing business in Fauquier County?

The main reason is that I’m from Fauquier. My family roots are here. I grew up getting my hair cut here at the very place I own today. That to me means everything.

Thank You for Voting!

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for voting House of Amsel Photography as Best of Fauquier.

For over a decade, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside the incredible families of this community; celebrating your weddings, welcoming your babies, and documenting the beautiful, messy, fleeting moments that make up a life. To those who have trusted me for years and to those just beginning their story with me, thank you. Thank you for inviting me in, for believing in my work, and for allowing me to do what I love most.

This honor is not mine alone, it belongs to every family that has stood in front of my camera and every person who has supported this dream along the way.

And to my family, especially my parents: thank you for seeing something special in me long before I could see it in myself. You nurtured a little girl’s dream and never let that spark fade.

I am overwhelmed with gratitude and love. Thank you for this incredible honor. I could not have done it without you all.

Trunk or Treat at Erin’s Elderberries

See writeup in Coffee Shop category

JJ’s Towing Service believes in showing up quickly, treating you with respect and making a stressful situation easier. You’re more than just another call, you’re their priority and you'll experience genuine customer care. The service treats every vehicle like it's their own and every customer is treated like family. Proudly serving Fauquier County.

65 South Third St., Warrenton P: 540-351-1616 W: clairesatthedepot.com

Claire’s at the Depot, located in historic Warrenton, offers delicious cuisine, attentive service and a unique historic setting for every occasion. From business lunches and special celebrations to relaxed dining on the patio, Claire’s has been a favorite gathering place for locals and visitors for over 20 years.

COACH OR TRAINER

35 N. Hill Drive, Warrenton P: 540-324-6796 • W: warrentonfit.com

Known for expert coaching and a welcoming community, Warrenton Functional Fitness believes fitness should be accessible to everyone. Through scalable programming and a supportive community, members build strength, improve health and create lifelong habits that extend beyond the gym. The center has something for everyone.

FITNESS CENTER

where

beer, agriculture and community come together. Set on a working farm in Fauquier County, 4J’s offers live music, family-friendly events, farm experiences and a welcoming atmosphere while proudly supporting veterans and celebrating Virginia’s rural heritage.

Thank you for voting!

We are incredibly honored and grateful to have been voted Best Spa of 2026! This recognition means the world to all of us because it comes from the people who matter most—our amazing clients and community. Every day, our goal is to create a welcoming space where you can relax, recharge, and leave feeling your absolute best. Your trust, loyalty, and continued support inspire us to keep raising the bar and providing the exceptional service you deserve.

Our spa services are designed to deliver both relaxation and real results. Every facial is customized to your skin's unique needs and performed using medical-grade skincare products, including iS Clinical and Obagi, to help improve your skin's health, appearance, and long-term radiance.

Studio 22 is also a full-service salon. Along with our relaxing spa treatments, we offer professional hair services including precision haircuts, custom color, highlights, balayage, styling, conditioning treatments, and special occasion hair. Whether you're looking for a day of pampering or a fresh new look, our talented team is here to help you look and feel your best.

This award belongs to our incredible team, whose passion, creativity, and dedication make Studio 22 Salon & Spa such a special place. It also belongs to our wonderful clients who have supported us throughout the years and continue to recommend us to their family and friends.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for voting Studio 22 Salon & Spa Best Spa of 2026. We are truly grateful for your confidence in us and look forward to serving our community for many years to come.

Here's to another year of beauty, relaxation, confidence, and helping you feel amazing!

Thank you for being part of the Studio 22 family. We can't wait to welcome you back soon! ❤

Warrenton

Erin’s Elderberries is a community gift shop, coffee shop and ice cream parlor featuring handcrafted elderberry products, locally made gifts and specialty drinks. More than a place to shop, it's a community gathering space known for hosting free family events that bring neighbors together and create lasting memories.

On a Roll

Fauquier’s Matt Fischer helped Team USA bring home the silver in Junior Men’s Roller Hockey at the 2022 World Skate Games. By 2022, Matt had had his eye on making it to the Roller Hockey World Skate Games, the highest level of competition for roller hockey players, for quite some time. Having played from childhood, the eighteen-year-old Orlean resident had been jockeying as a free agent player to be as visible as possible to the bigger coaches since high school.

Warrenton Center Cleaners

Al Mamgoong

251 W. Lee Highway, Warrenton

P: 540-349-3141

W: warrentoncleaners.com

Please tell us about your business.

Warrenton Center Cleaners offers dry cleaning and alteration services. We are the only dry cleaners in Fauquier County that uses GreenEarth Dry Cleaning Solution, an environmentally friendly solution that is derived from organic materials, instead of petroleum based solutions.

How long have you been in business in Fauquier County?

Warrenton Center Cleaners have been in business since 1998.

What has been your company’s biggest challenge?

We aim to offer reasonable prices for our services, both dry cleaning and alterations. However, with the prices of our supplies rising, it has been a challenge to maintain these prices.

And your biggest milestone?

Celebrating our 25th anniversary 3 years ago has been our biggest milestone. We could have not done it without our wonderful customers.

Why do you think our readers love your business enough to vote it “Best of”?

We believe our customers trust us for dry cleaning and alterations. Whether it's the everyday suits to the special wedding dress or a garment that belonged to their great-grandparent, we treat every garment with special care.

Why do you love doing business in Fauquier County?

Fauquier County is such a lovely place to do business because of the people. The people who call Fauquier County home are some of the kindest, sweetest and most thoughtful people in the Northern Virginia region. In the 28 years of doing business here, we feel like our customers have made us part of their family; we have laughed together, cried together and celebrated together. We watched their children grow up, get married, have children of their own and become customers themselves. It's such a wonderful feeling to be accepted into their families and this community. We are thankful to Fauquier County, the town of Warrenton, and most of all, our customers.

Blue Ridge Seafood TAKEOUT Chick-fil-A

WINERY

Barrel Oak

Winery & Brewery

3623 Grove Lane, Delaplane P: 540-364-6402 • W: barreloak.com

Nestled in Virginia’s rolling Piedmont, Barrel Oak Winery & Brewery pairs award-winning wines and small-batch craft beer with warm hospitality and sweeping Blue Ridge views. From family gatherings to celebrations with friends, Barrel Oak offers a welcoming place to sip, relax and feel at home.

Warrenton Jewelers & Gifts

Sarah Embrey 524 Fletcher Dr., Warrenton P: 540-341-8840 W: warrentonjewelers.com

Please tell us about your business.

Warrenton Jewelers & Gifts is a locally owned, full-service jewelry store dedicated to helping our customers celebrate life's most meaningful moments. Whether we're designing a one-of-a-kind engagement ring, restoring a treasured family heirloom, repairing everyday jewelry or helping someone find the perfect gift, our goal is always the same, to provide exceptional craftsmanship and honest, personal service. One thing that makes us unique is that we have a master goldsmith with decades of experi-

ence working on-site. From custom design to complex repairs, much of the work is completed right here in our store, allowing us to offer a level of quality and communication that is becoming increasingly rare.

How long have you been in business in Fauquier County?

Warrenton Jewelers & Gifts has been serving Fauquier County since 2008. I became the owner in 2024 and have been honored to build on the strong reputation the store had established while continuing to grow our custom jewelry services, repair capabilities and customer experience.

What has been your company’s biggest challenge?

Online shopping has changed expectations, but jewelry is deeply personal. We believe there is no substitute for sitting down with someone, hearing their story and helping them create or choose something they'll cherish for generations. And your biggest milestone?

Being voted Best Jewelry Store in Fauquier County is one of our proudest milestones

THE BEST

because it comes directly from the community we serve. Awards are meaningful, but knowing our customers took the time to vote for us means even more. It reflects the trust they've placed in us, and we're incredibly grateful for that support.

Why do you think our readers love your business enough to vote it “Best of”?

Building lasting relationships has always been more important to us than making a single sale, and we believe our customers recognize that.

Why do you love doing business in Fauquier County?

We love that we get to celebrate life's happiest moments alongside our customers, from engagements and weddings to anniversaries, birthdays and new babies. Over time, many customers become friends, and it's a privilege to watch families return generation after generation. Supporting our local community and being part of those milestones is what makes our work so rewarding.

JUNK REMOVAL

Junkluggers of Gainesville

7679 Limestone Drive, Suite 130, Gainesville

P: 571-248-LUG2

W: junkluggers.com/gainesville-va

Junkluggers provides eco-friendly junk removal for homes and businesses in Northern Virginia. They donate, recycle and repurpose items through their Remix Market while supporting local families through their partnership with the Sweet Julia Grace Foundation. Declutter your space and make a positive impact on the community and environment.

75 W. Lee St., Unit 104, Warrenton

P: 540-935-2189

W: sunwspawarrenton.onbuildhealth.com

Welcome to Sun W Spa, your wellness sanctuary in the heart of Warrenton. Conveniently located, the spa offers a calm, restorative space where you can escape daily stress and care for your body in a meaningful way.

mybbc10@gmail.com

http://www.mybusybeecleaning.com/

NAIL SALON

Best of Fauquier

to our families and community for voting us three years in a row.

Schedule a tour of our facility or attend a free trial lesson. Ready to begin?

28 Blackwell Park Lane, Suite 302, Warrenton P: 540-341-1900 W: warrentondermatology.com

Warrenton Dermatology & Skin Therapy Center provides expert medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology care for patients of all ages. Their boardcertified physician and team specialize in skin cancer prevention and treatment, acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and advanced aesthetic services to help patients achieve healthy skin, hair and nails.

Neighbors caring for neighbors: how Heartland Hospice earned Fauquier’s trust

Being named the best hospice provider in Fauquier County is not something that happens by accident. It is the result of a team that shows up — day after day, in some of life’s most tender moments — with skill, respect, and genuine heart.

For Angela Jacobs, Executive Director of Heartland Hospice’s Warrenton branch, that commitment is deeply personal. “In hospice, we are invited into a patient and family’s story at a time when compassion and clarity truly matter,” she says. “That is something we never take lightly.”

Under Angela’s leadership, the branch has built a reputation for care that feels less like a service and more like a calling. The team, made up of nurses, social workers, aides, chaplains, and volunteers, works together to address not just the physical needs of patients, but their emotional and spiritual needs as well. Every care plan is tailored to the individual, and every family is met where they are.

What sets this branch apart, Angela believes, is something that cannot easily be measured: the fact that many of the caregivers live right here in Fauquier County. They shop at the same stores. Their children

(540) 349-3970 heartlandhospice.com

go to the same schools. They are neighbors, in the truest sense of the word.

“When you care for someone in this community, you are caring for your own community,” Angela explains. “That changes the way you show up.”

That neighborly spirit is felt by the families Heartland Hospice serves. Patients receive around-the-clock support, and families are never left to navigate difficult decisions alone. Whether the need is pain and symptom management, a comforting conversation, or guidance on what comes next, the team is always there.

Being recognized by the Fauquier community in the Best of 2026 is, for Angela and her team, both an honor and a reminder of why this work matters.

“We are grateful,” she says simply. “And we will keep showing up.”

If you or a loved one are considering hospice, we invite you to call our 24/7 nurse line to learn more about our care. We are here whenever you need us.

We’re grateful for your support!

Caring for patients and families as they face the challenges of a life-limiting illness has long been our calling. From easing patients’ physical and emotional suffering to helping families cope with loss and grief, it is an honor to be with the Warrenton community when life matters most. To learn more about our care – and the compassionate people behind it – you can reach us 24/7.

(540) 349-3970

heartlandhospice.com

Danielsen Center for Hope After Loss

Rev. Liz Danielsen, Chaplain 7179 New Hope Lane, Warrenton P: 540-349-5814 W: danielsencenter.org

Please tell us about your business. We provide free support, education and a faith perspective to those who are ill, dying, grieving and experiencing personal loss and to those who journey with them. In memory of Arvid Danielsen and in recognition of the dream God first placed in my heart, we are renaming Spiritual Care Support Ministries to the Danielsen Center for Hope after Loss. The name reflects both the personal story

behind this ministry and the heart of our mission: to offer hope and healing to those navigating loss, and to remind each person who walks through our doors that they do not have to walk this journey alone and healing can occur at its own pace.

How long have you been in business in Fauquier County?

We opened in 2004.

What has been your company’s biggest challenge?

Our biggest challenge is that we need longer hours of operation so we can meet the needs of the people that come to us. That need could be met if we were able to have more staff, volunteer counselors and volunteers.

And your biggest milestone?

One of our greatest milestones is that over the years we have continued to reach individuals and families experiencing all types of loss. The greatest measure of our success is witnessing lives transformed as people walk through the healing process. Seeing hope restored and healing take place through the

At Danielsen Center for Hope after Loss, we

ministry of our staff and volunteers is the milestone we celebrate most.

Why do you think our readers love your business enough to vote it “Best of”?

“Reaching for a hand and touching a heart” captures the reason we were honored in the counseling/therapist category. At the heart of everything we do are the people we serve. We have the privilege of walking alongside individuals and families as they navigate loss, offering hope, compassion, and support on their journey toward healing. In return, those we serve teach us about courage, resilience, faith and the strength of the human spirit. This recognition belongs to every person who has entrusted us with their story.

Why do you love doing business in Fauquier County?

We love doing what we are doing because every person deserves to be seen, heard and cared about. Everyone has a story and every story matters.

THE BEST

OPHTHALMOLOGIST

Virginia Retina Center

45 N. Hill Drive, Suite 202, Warrenton

P: 540-349-1882

W: virginiaretina.com

The Virginia Retina Center specializes in the management of medical and surgical diseases of the retina and vitreous. The fellowship-trained ophthalmologists treat agerelated macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears and detachments and more with cutting-edge treatments and an active clinical trial program.

EYE CARE: OPTOMETRIST

Dr. Shannon Moore and Associates

528 Waterloo Road, Warrenton

P: 540-347-0555

W: warrentoneyes.com

Dr. Shannon Moore and Associates is an optometric private practice serving the local community for over 40 years. If you’re looking for excellent ocular health exams and vision care with a group you can trust, this is the practice for you.

HEARING CARE PROVIDER

Hearing Assessment Center

493 Blackwell Road, Suite 311, Warrenton

P: 540-341-7112

W: hearingassessment.com

The Hearing Assessment Center specializes in the best hearing treatment, technology and patient experience. The practice approaches your care in a unique and compassionate way and truly feels that better hearing means a better quality of life.

HOLISTIC SERVICE/ ALTERNATIVE

MEDICINE PROVIDER

Warrenton Wellness

83 W. Lee Highway, Warrenton

P: 540-216-2524

W: warrentonwellness.com

Experience the future of wellness and relaxation at the awardwinning Warrenton Wellness. The unique atmosphere of the octagon-shaped room, called a Blu Room, consists of ultraviolet B light, Red/Near-Infrared light, music and a healing tone all at the same time. Relax in this oneof-a-kind environment.

HOME HEALTH CARE

FirstLight Home Care — Warrenton

HOSPICE PROVIDER

Heartland Hospice

493 Blackwell Road, Suite 319, Warrenton P: 540-349-3970 W: heartlandhospice.com

Heartland Hospice understands the importance of time shared with family and friends, especially when facing the challenges of a life-limiting illness. Their clinicians are dedicated to offering physical, spiritual and emotional care with the compassion that people need to make the most of these moments.

With hearts full of gratitude, we're beyond honored to share that Mi'Cabalen Filipino-American Mobile Kitchen has been voted Best Food Truck – Best of Fauquier 2026!

When we started Mi'Cabalen in March 2026, our dream was simple: to share the flavors of our home, bring people together through food, and serve our community with love. We never imagined we'd be named Best Food Truck – Best of Fauquier 2026.

As Fauquier County's first Filipino-American mobile kitchen, this award means more than words can express. To receive this honor just a few months after opening is truly humbling. To everyone who voted for us, visited our trailer, shared our posts,

ORTHODONTIST

Griffin & Errera Orthodontics

179 Broadview Ave., Warrenton P: 540-347-1888

W: geortho.com

For decades, Griffin & Errera Orthodontics has helped patients in Warrenton and the surrounding communities enjoy healthier, more confident smiles. Led by board-certified orthodontists, the practice offers braces and Invisalign for all ages with friendly, family-focused care.

THE BEST

recommended us to your family and friends, or simply enjoyed a meal with us—thank you. This award belongs to all of you as much as it belongs to us.

Thank you to our family, friends, loyal customers, fellow vendors, event organizers, and our incredible team for believing in our dream. Most importantly, we give all the glory to God for His faithfulness and guidance.

This is only the beginning. We look forward to serving our community, sharing Filipino culture, and creating unforgettable meals—one plate at a time.

From our Mi'Cabalen family to yours—thank you for making our dream come true.

With love and gratitude, Chef Mica, Charlie & the Mi'Cabalen Family

micabalen@gmail.com (540)-800-6126

Mi’Cabalen

Mi’Cabalen_VA MiCabalen

Mechanical

Strokin Scapes, LLC

5637 O’Bannon Road, The Plains

P: 540-450-7457

F: facebook.com/strokin.scapes

Strokin Scapes, LLC provides reliable landscaping services for residential and commercial properties. Services include lawn maintenance, mulch installation, seasonal cleanups and landscape enhancements. Dedicated to quality workmanship and customer satisfaction, Strokin Scapes, LLC helps keep outdoor spaces looking their best.

405 Belle Air Lane, Warrenton

P: 703-753-4585

W: peakroofingcontractors.com

For 20 years, Peak Roofing Contractors has been a trusted, family-owned and operated company dedicated to protecting and enhancing homes. They specialize in roofing as well as siding, gutters, windows and doors. Their focus is on quality craftsmanship, honest recommendations and exceptional customer service.

BUILD. REMODEL. RESTORE.

HOME CONSTRUCTION • WHOLE HOUSE REMODELS

KITCHEN REMODELS • BATHROOM REMODELS • HISTORIC RENOVATIONS

Home Matters is honored to be voted Best of Fauquier for the second consecutive year. We are sincerely grateful to our clients, friends, and community for your continued confidence and support.

Whether we’re building a custom home from the ground up, transforming a dated kitchen or bathroom, creating seamless additions, renovating existing spaces, or preserving the character of historic properties, our goal is always the same: to deliver exceptional craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and a building experience rooted in honesty, communication, and attention to detail.

Every home has a story, and we take pride in helping homeowners create spaces that are as beautiful as they are functional while respecting the unique character and history that make each home special.

Thank you for making Home Matters your trusted choice. We look forward to helping even more Fauquier families bring their vision to life for years to come.

BEST PET PHOTOGRAPHY

Boxers and Beer Pet Photography

Stephanie Dalman

P: 540-422-2041

W: www.boxersandbeer.com

Please tell us about your business.

Boxers and Beer Pet Photography is a luxury pet photography studio specializing in creating timeless artwork that celebrates the incredible bond between people and their pets. I photograph dogs, cats, horses and other beloved companions in beautiful outdoor locations throughout Northern Virginia, then help clients transform those portraits into handcrafted wall art and heirloom albums that become part of their family's story. For me, this is about so much more than taking beautiful photographs. Our pets are with us for such a short part of our lives, yet they leave an unforgettable mark on our hearts. My goal is to preserve those memories in a way that can be enjoyed long after the moment has passed. How long have you been in business in Fauquier County?

Two years.

What has been your company’s biggest challenge?

Building a brand that stands out in a crowded market has been one of my biggest challenges. Professional photography is about so much more than owning a camera, so I've worked hard to educate clients. Working with animals requires a unique skill set. Every pet is different, and creating a relaxed, enjoyable experience while capturing authentic personalities takes time, preparation and expertise. Helping people understand that difference has been one of the most rewarding challenges.

And your biggest milestone?

Winning Best of Fauquier has been an incredible milestone. Knowing that the community took the time to nominate and vote for my business means more

FAVORITES

FAVORITE DISH TO COOK AT HOME:

FAVORITE LOCAL DRINK SPOT: Powers Farm and Brewery

FAVORITE LOCAL RECREATION ACTIVITY: State and local park exploring

than I can express. It's a reminder that the work I pour my heart into is making an impact on the families I serve. Another milestone has been seeing clients return as their families grow, welcoming new pets while continuing to trust me to document each chapter of their journey. There is no greater compliment than being invited back to preserve those memories again and again.

Why do you think our readers love your business enough to vote it “Best of”?

I believe it's because every client and every pet is treated like family. I take the time to get to know each animal's personality and create an experience that's enjoyable for both pets and their people. Clients know they're not just receiving digital files. They're investing in meaningful artwork that tells a story and honors a relationship. I also genuinely care about educating pet owners, supporting local businesses and giving back to the community whenever I can. Those relationships are what make this business so special.

Why do you love doing business in Fauquier County?

Fauquier County has an incredible sense of community. People here truly support local businesses. It's a place where word of mouth matters, which makes building real relationships with clients and other small business owners especially meaningful. The county is also filled with breathtaking landscapes that provide the perfect backdrop for my photography.

WINE SHOP

Warrenton Winehouse

Doug Hibbard and Susan Givens

389 W. Shirley Ave., Warrenton P: 540-878-8682

W: www.warrentonwinehouse.com

Please tell us about your business

We are an independent, family-owned-and-operated gourmet shop offering wine, cigars, beer and nonalcoholic options. How long have you been in business in Fauquier County?

We've owned the Warrenton Winehouse since April 1, 2026. Before then, the shop was known as The Grapevine.

What has been your company's biggest challenge?

We've never run a business before, so deciding to take the risk to start one was a challenge. We are grateful for the support of local business owners and Dan, the previous owner, who answered our many questions.

And your biggest milestone?

We started offering tastings every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. We like to use the tastings as an opportunity to either share our

FAVORITES

FAVORITE LOCAL

RESTAURANT AND DISH: Field & Main, OooMami Smash Burger

FAVORITE LOCAL DRINK SPOT: Powers Farm & Brewery

FAVORITE LOCAL RECREATION ACTIVITY:

Watching our son, Silas, play sports; and walking our dogs, Tobble (the shop's Chief Security Office) and Renzo (Chief Morale Officer).

FAVORITE LOCAL NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION: Fauquier FISH

wine club selections or show off some of the other bottles in the shop. We also started a wine club, which now has 38 members. Why do you think our readers love your business enough to vote it “Best of”?

We have no pretensions about ourselves or what we offer. Wine, in particular, can take itself far too seriously. That's not us at all. The only question that truly matters is “Do you like it?” We're here to help customers find something they will like, be it for a special occasion or a regular Tuesday. People like education and options, not elitism.

Why do you love doing business in Fauquier County?

It's intimate. You get to know people quickly and start seeing the connections between them. We've met generations of the same family as they visited on separate trips. That whole process of "Oh, you're soand-so's daughter" is like putting together a puzzle of the county.

WINE SHOP

Warrenton Winehouse

389 West Shirley Ave., Warrenton

P: 540-878-8682

W: warrentonwinehouse.com

This family-owned and operated independent gourmet store carries a curated selection of fine wines, craft beers, handrolled cigars and non-alcoholic beverages. They offer a monthly wine club, weekly tastings, case discounts and much more.

WOMEN'S CLOTHES

DejaVu Anew

THEARTS

ART GALLERY

Taylor Boyd

ARTIST

Taylor Boyd

ARTS & CRAFTS

WORKSHOP/VENUE

Earth, Glaze & Fire

AUTHOR

Erin Mann

DANCE STUDIO

Lasley Centre for the Performing Arts

7112 Farm Station Road, Warrenton P: 540-905-2782 • W: lasleycentre.com

Lasley Centre for the Performing Arts offers exceptional dance training for all ages and skill levels in Warrenton. From Tiny Dancers to pre-professional tracks, their certified instructors teach ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, acro and more, nurturing confidence, community and character both on and off the stage.

LOCAL ENTERTAINER/BAND

Grass Fed

MUSIC INSTRUCTOR

Modal Music: Dan Mudge and Chris Bauer

PET PHOTOGRAPHER

Boxers & Beer Pet Photography

PHOTOGRAPHER

House of Amsel Photography

P: 703-565-7048

W: houseofamselphotography.com

For the venturesome, the wildly in love and the families writing their greatest adventures, House of Amsel Photography creates unforgettable imagery from Shenandoah summits to national parks and beyond. Led by Alex, every session is crafted to feel authentic, adventurous, deeply personal and beautifully timeless.

TATTOO ARTIST

Painted Fox Tattoo & Oddities

THEATER/THEATER INSTRUCTION

Fauquier Community Theatre L

NOTE: History is rarely black and white, especially at the local level. We did our best to get it right, but sources can conflict and records are often hard to locate. Consider these tidbits a starting point — and if you have a correction or a better story, we’re all ears.

What’s in a Name?

You pass these names every day, but do you know where they came from?

In this recurring feature, Warrenton Lifestyle gives a quick peek into the stories behind the names of our local towns, streets, and landmarks.

Blantyre

Blantyre Road is a scenic route and serves as a frequent “back way” connector route between Haymarket and Warrenton.

THE BLANTYRE HOME:

The name was originally given to a “fine old Virginia home” located near the Thoroughfare Gap and about 12 miles from the Manassas battlefield in the early 19th century.

ETYMOLOGY: The name “Blantyre” has several proposed origins, but the leading theory is that it likely has Cumbric roots, a now-extinct Brythonic language similar to Welsh that was once spoken in southern Scotland. The most accepted derivation is from the Cumbric words blaen (top, end or summit) and tir (land), roughly translating to “top of the land” or “summit of the estate.”

CIVIL WAR USE: During the American Civil War, specifically in September 1861, the Blantyre mansion served as a makeshift hospital for the 21st North Carolina Regiment. It primarily treated soldiers suffering from diseases rather than battlefield wounds.

Castle in Angus, Scotland

Airlie

The name was brought to the area in 1899 by Harry Connelly Groome, a socialite from Philadelphia who purchased the local estate to build a manor he called “Airlie House.”

THE INSPIRATION:

The estate was named after Airlie Castle in Angus, Scotland which Groome had visited while on a trip to play golf at St. Andrews. While the Airlie Castle in Scotland was his primary inspiration, another theory from Groome’s own writings suggests the name may have also been influenced by an 1847 poem by Charles Kingsley.

ETYMOLOGY:

Airly Beacon

BY CHARLES KINGSLEY

Airly Beacon, Airly Beacon; Oh the pleasant sight to see Shires and towns from Airly Beacon, While my love climbed up to me!

Airly Beacon, Airly Beacon; Oh the happy hours we lay Deep in fern on Airly Beacon, Courting through the summer’s day!

Airly Beacon, Airly Beacon; Oh the weary haunt for me, All alone on Airly Beacon, With his baby on my knee!

Airlie is derived from the Old Gaelic term àrd-leathad, which translates to “high slope” or “high ground.” Other interpretations from the Gaelic Airthlie suggest “place of the riverbank.”

Bethel:

The community near Blantyre and Airlie Roads took its name from Bethel United Methodist Church which was founded in 1834 and served as the focal point for the surrounding rural area. Although additions and renovations have occurred, the original building and church stand and operate to this day.

ETYMOLOGY: The name is biblical, originating from the Hebrew words beth (house) and el (God), translating to “House of God.” In the Book of Genesis, it is the place where Jacob had his dream of a ladder reaching to heaven, renaming the site from its original Canaanite name, Luz.

BETHEL ACADEMY (LATER BETHEL MILITARY ACADEMY): In 1867, Major Albert G. Smith and his students chose the name Bethel Academy for a school established on the site of the church. The school grew into a significant military institution that operated until 1911, drawing students from across the country.

TRANSITION TO COMMUNITY NAME: After the academy closed, the name endured through the Bethel Academy Subdivision developed in the 1960s.

"And he was afraid, and said, How dreadful is this place! this is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven... And he called the name of that place Bethel..." — GENESIS 28:17, 19 (KJV)

Based in Old Town Warrenton, CRES Inc. has brokered successful commercial real estate transactions across Northern Virginia, the Piedmont, and the Shenandoah Valley since 1998.

TRUSTED AND RECOGNIZED BY OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY

History,Unlocked

Morven Park’s Davis Mansion preserves one family’s story –and the era they helped shape

ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY SIXUAN WU

If you are looking to spend an afternoon immersed in the opulence and history of early 20th-century high society, look no further than Morven Park in Loudoun County.

Tucked away just north of downtown Leesburg, Morven Park’s 1,000-acre grounds are home to an international equestrian center, the Morven Park Center for Civic Impact, scenic gardens, hiking trails and, perhaps most iconically, the historic Davis Mansion.

Morven Park’s last private owners, former Virginia Gov. Westmoreland Davis (19181922) and his wife Marguerite, bought the estate in 1903. After her husband’s death, Marguerite established the Westmoreland Davis Memorial Foundation to open Morven Park to the public in 1967.

Morven Park offers frequent tours of the mansion, the oldest section of which dates to around. 1800. Guests can visit the drawing room, dining room, kitchen, library and even the Davises’ bedrooms – all preserved exactly as Marguerite Davis left the house in 1942.

While many historic homes feature reproductions of historic furniture, furniture generally of the time period or curated similar pieces, everything in the Davis Mansion was owned by the family.

“It’s as if Marguerite gave us the keys and said, ‘Here, I’m going away. Invite your friends to take a look,’” said Stacey Metcalfe, executive director of Moven Park. “This is exactly how it was, so I think that’s magical.”

Morven Park’s last private owners, former Virginia governor Westmoreland Davis (19181922) and his wife Marguerite, purchased the estate in 1903.

Stepping into the mansion, visitors will discover perfectly polished silver on the dining room sideboard, books left open on the library desk and even cosmetics scattered around Marguerite’s vanity table in the second-floor bedroom.

In the dining room, visitors can peruse a copy of the Southern Planter Journal to find articles written by Westmoreland Davis.

The tour has no ropes or stanchions, so visitors are free to proceed at their own pace and examine items closely. This includes the early-20th-century refrigerator and Marguerite’s closet.

And although the tour is mainly focused on the Davises’ lives, it incorporates local,

state and national history. Visitors can expect to learn about the poll tax, the grandfather clause and aspects of the Virginia Constitution.

“I just love this tour,” said Miranda Boljat, Morven Park’s museum and interpretation coordinator. “I feel like it’s very well written to go through the history, both chronologically and subject-to-subject, covering the people who lived here, also the building itself, but also [there is] all the stuff that’s inside it [authentic and displayed] as if they had ‘stepped out for the day.’”

Jackson Everline, 12, described the tour as “fun, immersive and unique.” He and his family traveled from Richmond to visit his grandmother and decided to take a tour after visiting the Morven Park grounds.

“The coolest thing I’ve seen on the whole tour is definitely the big chandelier in the front room,” Jackson said. “The tour was very interesting. There’s some very unique stuff. I learned a lot.”

For those really interested in getting up close and personal with the items, the mansion also offers tours that expand beyond the main rooms and standard narrative.

“The foundation opened its doors in 1967, and since then … they opened up more and more rooms,” Metcalfe said. “There are different stories that are told throughout the years. We’re always adding on little nooks and crannies here.”

As visitors travel from room to room, they often marvel at the elaborate tapestries and the Japanese folding screen. However, even the period stove and hot water tank – considered high-tech luxury appliances in their day – are met with fascination.

Want to go?

What:

Where:

17195 Southern Planter Lane, Leesburg

When:

Tours offered Fridays through Mondays at 10 and 11 a.m. and 1, 2 and 3 p.m. from March through December.

Admission:

$16; ages 18 and under are free; advance online purchase required at insidenovatix.com/ organizations/morven-park or scan QR code.

Garden and grounds:

Open daily 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., free admission

More details: morvenpark.org/mansion/visit/ mansion-museums

Clockwise from top left: A 1917 newspaper features Westmoreland and Marguerite Davis in an article about Westmoreland’s gubernatorial race; specialty tours allow visitors to step into Marguerite’s closet to take a closer look at her cosmopolitan clothing; the model in the billiard room displays the mansion’s transformation from a modest fieldstone house to the Greek Revival building we see today.

It is impossible to separate the Davises’ private lives from the history of the early 20th century, so the tour leans heavily into educating the guests about that time period.

In addition to stories about their cosmopolitan travels, tourists will hear how Gov. Davis worked to improve Virginia’s literacy rate, how Marguerite volunteered as a nurse in the 1918-1919 influenza pandemic and how the voting rate in Loudoun has changed over the years.

“Obviously we have a lot of the history of the location … but also just a lot of aspects of Westmoreland Davis’ life that feel very applicable,” Boljat said. “We cover a lot of topics, like voter rights and things like that, that a lot of people just don’t know or kind of take for granted.”

Whether you’re into regional history, civic engagement or just exploring the outdoors, Davis Mansion and the wider Morven Park offer something for everyone, Metcalfe said, adding that she thinks of the park as “Loudoun County’s 1,000-acre backyard.”

“This is a community gem,” Metcalfe said. “People take the tours, and they go to the gardens, and they just get curious, and that’s what we want. It’s a resource for everyone.” L

Sixuan Wu is a rising senior journalism student at James Madison University who lives in Bristow.

Specialty tours

Each month Davis Mansion also offers one of two specialized tours. The Nooks & Crannies tour invites visitors into parts of the mansion that usually remain closed to the public; the Cabinets of Curiosities tour invites visitors to view the rare objects hidden in the mansion’s wardrobes, chests and writing desks. Visit the InsideNoVaTix page for details.

sweet success

Family is the secret ingredient in Blackstone Honey Bee Farms

BY STACY SHAW | PHOTOS BY LUKE CHRISTOPHER

The Greeks considered honey “food of the gods.” The ancient Minoans of Crete engaged in sacred hive rituals on behalf of their mother goddess. In Hinduism, the Veddas refer to their primary deities, Vishnu, Krishnu and Indra, as the “nectar-born ones.”

If bees are sacred, then beekeepers Richard Pounds and his family at Blackstone Honey Bee Farms in Broad Run are alchemists, transmuting the natural world through pollination and offering us the golden, delicious superfood we called honey.

Richard “Rick” Pounds, 71, has been around bees all his life. He grew up on a farm in Culpeper. Later, while working for his uncle in construction – and even after he started his own construction business, while living in Nokesville – he often came across bees people considered nuisances.

But while many people are

afraid of bees, Pounds was fascinated by them.

After retiring, Rick moved to a rural property in Broad Run where the previous owner planted 1,050 yards of natural flora and indigenous wildflowers to protect against erosion. A friend who operated a 3,000-colony apiary, or bee yard, offered him some colonies. He accepted.

“Honey bees can travel five to six miles in a day looking for flowers,” Rick said. “Mine have to go only 100 yards.”

Rick started beekeeping, producing honey and beeswax candles. In 2023, he launched Blackstone Honey Bee Farms from his apiary on John Marshall Highway, selling honey on-site, at local markets and mom-and-pop shops.

Thankfully Rick did not have to go it alone. His son Austin, 29, is his second-in-command. While his other sons Richie, 47, and Hunter McCarten, 20, and

his stepson, Gary Guerrero, work there a few times a week as well.

Austin’s close friends, Andrew Jenkins and Seth Rollins, work on weekends. “It’s a pleasure working with my sons and the other boys,” said Pounds. “It’s all about family.”

Austin realizes the importance of their work. “[Without bees] you wouldn’t have flowers or plants, and not a lot of the growth and vegetation at all in the world,” he said. “I also take the bee pollen for my allergies, so that’s pretty cool as well.”

Rick’s wife, Angela Salazar, who assists with paperwork and sells at markets, doesn’t mind bees in her backyard. “I’m not afraid of them. If you ignore them, they don’t bother you.”

The only family member who doesn’t like bees, Rick said, is his daughter, Valerie. “She wants nothing to do with them.”

Like the Pounds, bees form a hardworking family unit. The queen lays 1,500 to 2,000 eggs a day. Younger females are caretakers; older females for-

Health benefits of honey

Honey soothes throats and calms coughs; combats allergies; is rich in antioxidants; supports heart health, improves cholesterol levels and reduces blood pressure; offers better blood sugar management than sugar; and aids in digestion, nourishing “good” bacteria in your gut. While you should never give honey to infants under 1 years old, it makes a good homeopathic medicine for children.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Austin Pounds works full time at Blackstone Honey Bee Farms with his father, Richard Pounds; Andrew Jenkins and Seth Rollins sell whipped honey at the new Gainesville farmers market; natural honeycomb offers nutritional benefits, enzymes and antioxidants; Jenkins wears a protective suit as he opens a beehive.

age for nectar, pollen and water. The males exist to mate with the queen.

“Their job is really living for the queen, getting the honey for the queen,” Austin said.

In bee yards, colonies are kept in artificial hives, large wooden boxes containing screens and frames. The bees turn nectar into honey. Honey falls into honeycomb frames and the bees cap them with beeswax.

Rick and company cut the wax and honey from the frames. They heat raw honey, only slightly, so as not to kill the useful enzymes.

Austin recommends using local honey to treat allergies. Since the bees source local pollen, it's a homeopathic remedy. One can sweeten tea, coffee or yogurt with honey or go “right to the source” and eat a pinch of pollen.

Blackstone sells its raw and natural honey, also offers flavors like Cinnamon Honey and Wildflower Honey. Whipped Cinnamon Honey can be used as a topper or spread. “That’s very popular,” Rick said.

But the farm’s Hot Honey –infused with habanero peppers – is the best seller. It has a spicy kick, Rick said. “People love it on pizza.”

Blackstone also produces an assortment of natural candles.

Beeswax candles burn clean and clear the air. As its negative ions rise, allergens like pet danger and dust fall. People also prefer beeswax candles for their natural fragrance and warm glow and because they are long-lasting.

Selling the goods is part of the fun, and Blackstone participates in nine weekly markets in Prince William, surrounding counties and beyond. “Farmers markets are fun; you meet people and get to grow your business,” Rick said.

Salazar loves hearing her customers share the positive experiences they’ve had with their products. “There’s a real sense of community at the markets, seeing

people every week. Plus, they have all these products that are farm to table.”

Mitch Berliner, owner of Central Farm Markets, which opened a new location at Virginia Gateway, first met Rick at his Bethesda, Md., market. “Rick is an outstanding vendor, person and is a huge fan of getting the Gainesville Market up and running,” Berliner said.

Because pollination increases agricultural growth and quality, Rick receives multiple requests from farmers who want to rent his colonies. However, he graciously declines, knowing that chemicals – even from neighboring farms –could contaminate his colonies.

Blackstone honey bees are very healthy, as certified by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and Rick wants to keep it that way.

However, he does sell hive kits and helps people set up their own colonies. He will even come to ethically remove honey bee swarms.

Today, Blackstone Honey Bee Farms manages 42 colonies between the Broad Run beeyard and a secondary location in Fauquier County, and Rick aims to increase that number to 75.

“I will continue to grow the company for the boys. Austin is ready right now to step in and take charge,” said Rick. “That makes me very proud.”

Austin, who takes great pride in helping people and the environment, is happy to oblige. “When I first started, it was just to help [my dad] out, but today I genuinely enjoy what I do.” L

Stacy Shaw is an award-winning journalist. She is the editor of Haymarket/Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine and publisher/owner of the local news site BristowBeat.com.

More information about Blackstone Honey Bee Farms can be found at blackstonehoneybeefarms.com.

homefromawayhome

The great dorm room divide: Sons vs.

daughters

BY PAM KAMPHUIS

my husband and I have had the pleasure of raising and sending off to college two boys and a daughter. I found that the packing and supplies needed varied greatly between the two. Let’s just say I learned a lot about the differences in preparing for their first year away from home.

Boys tend to look at dorm rooms as a place to sleep and dump their stuff, while girls plan for it to be a mixture of the comfort of home and a place for expressing themselves in their first foray out into the world.

Boys will wake up the morning of departure and start stuffing things into bags, while girls spend months of preparation involving a significant amount of pins on Pinterest. Looking back on the experience, I developed a cheat sheet for parents of first-year students heading off this month.

Below are a variety of necessities that will most likely head off to college with your child this fall. Based on my observations, I’ll explain if I think it’s better for the student to pack, because you, as the mom, might get it wrong, or if the mom should pack because, well… you do want them to survive the first year, don’t you?

luggage

GIRLS: let her pick out … ideally coordinated bags and boxes.

BOYS: parent should pick out … if your son selects, he will come up with an old duffel bag previously used for sports and likely moldy. Or a simple trash bag.

sheets & pillows

GIRLS: let her handle it … because they have to match the decor, right?

BOYS: without hesitation; parental guidance is 100% necessary in this department … because if you don’t pack them they’ll just sleep on the bare mattress. Seriously, I have witnessed this with my own eyes. And don’t bother with the second set of sheets … they won’t change them all semester.

mattress cover

GIRLS: let her pick … because it’s a mattress and who knows who else has been sleeping on it?

BOYS: you guessed it; parents … because it’s a mattress and who knows who else has been sleeping on it?

laundry supplies

GIRLS: again… let her pick … decor-matching hamper, laundry detergent, Woolite, mesh bags for delicates, dryer sheets and drying rack for drip-dry clothes.

BOYS: yep, parents … they will need the largest plastic hamper with handles you can find because they won’t do laundry until they bring the hamper home with them on breaks for mom to do it. OR they’ll wait till they have absolutely not a stitch left to wear and then spend a day and a half with the huge hamper washing everything they own in the dorm laundry room, possibly without the benefit of detergent unless you think to send it with them. Or they will only wash what is needed for that day. Again, I have seen this with my own eyes. One of our boys actually ran a “load” of laundry consisting of exactly one pair of underwear.

towels

GIRLS: yep… her … should be color coordinated and fluffy. She will bring enough to use one every day between laundry days.

BOYS: definitely parent … because otherwise they’ll just dry themselves off with a T-shirt from the hamper. Only pack one so they need to use it every day and hang it up to dry (hopefully), otherwise extra ones will get stuffed somewhere and get moldy.

toiletries

GIRLS: let her pick … because there’s way too much and mom will pack the wrong thing.

BOYS: let him figure this one out … because they only need a toothpaste/brush, deodorant, soap, and shampoo, and surely they can manage that much?

clothing

GIRLS: her, without question … because mom might pack all practical, comfortable attire and not the cute stuff.

BOYS: again, it will be tough, but let him handle this one too … with mom caveat: they will only pack what is in season on the day of the packing, which in August in Warrenton would be shorts and T-shirts. But if they are going north for school, they will likely have snow and very cold weather before Thanksgiving break, and they will not have a coat and will wander the campus in shorts. Again, I have witnessed this with my own eyes.

decorating supplies

GIRLS: you guessed it… her … following the dorm room decor on Pinterest. Must haves: curtains, comforter, throw pillows and laundry hamper, all color coordinated. All of these details will have been discussed with her roommate ahead of time. Twine and clips to string photos across walls. Color-coordinated baskets for storing anything and everything. Twinkly Christmas lights, and scented wax melting pot (no candles allowed in dorms, no matter how cute). Desk decor: color-coordinated file folders, pen holders, notebooks.

BOYS: if he wants decor, let him … a sports poster. But they will not worry about how to hang it and will then just crumple it up and stuff it under the bed. Maybe a Budweiser sign. Everything else is just N/A.

other items

Girls will need a small refrigerator to keep sophisticated food like hummus, fresh mozzarella, fresh vegetables, yogurt and fruit cold. Boys will need it for beer. Girls will need a microwave to cook a number of sophisticated recipes developed specifically for microwaves. Boys might do an occasional cupo-noodles. L

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Brews for grown-ups, fun for kids

Screaming Goats Farm & Brewery blends craft beverages with a playground atmosphere.

BY EMMA BROWN / PHOTOS BY LUKE CHRISTOPHER

Craft beer, petting goats and a giant bounce pad may seem an unlikely mix, but Ashley and Chad Pessini built Screaming Goats Farm and Brewery in Amissville with family outings in mind.

Opened in May, the new destination at 4158 Waterford Road welcomed visitors for a Fourth of July celebration weekend featuring live music, local food trucks, goat feeding, family activities and red, white and blue-themed seltzers.

The brewery operates Thursday through Sunday and offers house-brewed beer, wine, plenty of room for children to play and space for large gatherings on its seven-acre property.

The idea grew out of the couple’s own experiences trying to keep their daughter entertained during visits to breweries and wineries.

“When she was kind of at the age where we could go take her to playgrounds and things like that, we realized that wineries and breweries really didn't have much to accommodate children, and it made the enjoyment of going to breweries and wineries really almost nonexistent,” said Ashley Pessini.

Pessini and her family have lived in Amissville for about five years and decided it would be

“We

the perfect location for their business given its quiet, smalltown feel. Prior to opening Screaming Goats, Ashley was a real estate agent and Chad worked in construction. The couple also raised bees for a season and plan to do so again in the future.

The venue includes several fenced areas housing 15 goats that patrons can pet and feed out of purchasable logo cups that can be refilled for $1. They also raise goats, hogs and chickens on the property.

In addition, Screaming Goats has a swingset, several climbing structures, a three-level silo for indoor play and a “Kangaroo Jumper” — a large bounce pad

— to occupy children.

“We just decided that we were going to endeavor on building the best family-oriented brewery that we could, and hope that people enjoy it as much as we enjoyed building it, and that's where the dream kind of came true,” Pessini said.

Pessini said Screaming Goats earned its name from one particularly lively goat. “We have [a] goat, his name is Vinnie, [and] he screams all the time whenever he's near women or female goats,” she said. “[Males and females] are currently separated, so patrons probably won’t hear them, but we do have plans to put them together at some point.” L

facebook.com/ ScreamingGoatsFarmandBrewery

Emma Brown is a journalism student at James Madison University and a summer intern with the Rappahannock News.

ABOUT THE CHEF

Chef Asha Clare of Warrenton is the owner and creative force behind The Kitchen Fairy, an artisan hospitality company that artfully weaves dining, event design and guest service into unforgettable culinary experiences. Growing up in Madison County, Clare was introduced to cooking with fresh garden ingredients by her grandmother, and developed a lifelong appreciation for food made with love and intention. Known for her elegant yet rustic and chic style, she handcrafts meals that are as thoughtful as they are delicious, rooted in local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. KITCHENFAIRY.CO

Sublime hydration

Minted watermelon agua fresca is the perfect pour for hot summer days

Tips for picking a watermelon

BY CHEF ASHA CLARE

Minted Watermelon Agua Fresca is one of my favorite beverages to serve when throwing a summer soiree or just in need of respite from the heat of an August day. Simply, it’s elevated hydration in a vivid, drinkable color.

If you’re new to the world of agua fresca, its origins hail from Mexico where it has a long history as a popular drink known for its refreshing qualities. There are many types, but they all have in common ease of preparation and a simple, fresh ingredient list which is a fantastic way to use excess produce from the garden or highlight the bounty of seasonal ingredients from the farmer’s market.

You might be wondering if there is a difference between juice and agua fresca; the answer is absolutely, yes! Agua Fresca contains more water and fiber than juice, resulting in a surprisingly light beverage that is not as sugary, stodgy or heavy, yet retains all the bright, juicy flavors you crave for summer refreshment.

The key to fantastic, minted watermelon agua fresca is perfectly ripe, fresh, sweet watermelon. A good rule of thumb is to look for one with a field spot indicating it was ripened on the vine. Watermelon should feel heavy and the rind firm and shiny with dark green- and cream-colored striations. When thumped, a ripe watermelon should make a deep, hollow sound. Underripe melons will have a higher pitch and over ripe melons will sound more like a thud.

INGREDIENTS

1 cup water

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup fresh mint (more for garnish)

½ teaspoon sea salt

4 cups chopped, seedless watermelon

2 cups water

¼ cup mint simple syrup

2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lime juice

1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice

INSTRUCTIONS

MINT SIMPLE SYRUP

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring water, sugar and salt to a simmer, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.

2. Continue to simmer for two more minutes. Do not allow the syrup to come to a full boil. Remove from the heat.

3. Add the mint to the hot syrup. Mix to fully submerge. Cover and allow the mint to infuse in the syrup for at least twenty minutes and up to one hour.

4. Place a mesh strainer over a glass jar large enough to hold the syrup. Strain the infused syrup into the jar. Discard the mint and seal jar with a tight-fitting lid.

5. Cool to room temperature and store in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. (If you have any leftover, you can enjoy it in a mojito, mint julep or iced tea.)

MINTED WATERMELON AGUA FRESCA

1. Combine the watermelon, water, mint simple syrup, lime juice and lemon juice in a blender and blend until completely smooth and homogenized.

2. Refrigerate in a large pitcher until cold. It’s best served the same day, but it can last in the refrigerator for up to two days.

3. Serve over ice, garnished with mint. L

DOG DAYS YARD SALE DOG DAYS YARD SALE

Presented By The Rappahannock County Democratic Committee SEPTEMBER 12-13, 2026

9 AM - 4 PM

HALF PRICE

SUNDAY!

BRING YOUR CARD OR CASH, LEAVE WITH A STASH!

JOIN US FOR THE PRESALE PARTY FRIDAY, SEP 11, FROM 6 PM - 9 PM, WITH TWO ENTRY OPTIONS!

GENERAL ADMISSION VIP $30

 BUYS YOU ENTRY

 PARTY PERKS

 ABILITY TO BUY ONE ITEM AT FULL PRICE

$60

 BUYS YOU ENTRY

 PARTY PERKS

 ABILITY TO BUY UNLIMITED ITEMS AT FULL PRICE

PARTY PERKS INCLUDE IN-PERSON ACCESS TO SILENT AUCTION, FOOD FROM A LOCAL VENDOR, 2 DRINK TICKETS FOR BEER FROM HOPKINS ORDINARY AND WINE, AND THE ABILITY TO SHOP THE SALE EARLY!

Frozen Yogi

11 MAIN ST.,

Frozen Yogi in Old Town is much more than summer treats

BY BROOKE ARTHUR

What do you want customers to know about you/your business?

“We're not a chain. We're just an independently owned store, run by Fauquier County residents. We've traveled the world, but we've come to realize that paradise is really right here in the Piedmont. More than anything, we want Frozen Yogi to be a place on Main Street where everyone in this community can come together and enjoy themselves. And we're just getting started! We're working on launching our own coffee line grown from our very own coffee trees, with plenty more to come.”

THIRSTY?

European-style espresso, specialty teas from Bali, chai latte, cinnamon horchata, boba tea and more, served hot or over ice.

HUNGRY?

From the Grin & Beef It (roast beef, cheeses) to the Gobble and Goat (turkey, tangy goat cheese) and the Pesto Manifesto (fresh mozzarella, pesto, sun dried tomatoes) and more, you’ll be sure to find something for lunch or a mid-afternoon snack.

MOST POPULAR DISH: DUBAI CUP

Strawberries or raspberries layered parfaitstyle with pistachio and chocolate

yogurt and soft serve in a variety of flavors with all the fixings. Dairy-free and vegan

FEELING FESTIVE?

Mocktails, dessert-style cocktails and beer (with wine coming soon)

Fauquier’s

Top Sales

The ten highest-priced homes that sold between mid-June and mid-July 2026 in Fauquier County. Data and photos from Zillow.com.

9425

$4,550,000

$1,875,000

10930 EVERGREEN ACRES LANE, CATLETT

$1,150,000 Sold July 1

The Big Picture

“The Greater Piedmont housing market remained strong through June 2026, continuing to build on the momentum seen throughout the spring. Compared to June 2025, the region experienced significant growth in home sales, active listings, new listings, and overall sales volume, while the median sales price remained steady at $580,000. Homes also sold more quickly than they did a year ago, reflecting continued buyer demand despite an increase in available inventory. Overall, the June data points to a healthy, balanced market with expanding opportunities for buyers and sellers across the Greater Piedmont region.”

—Wendy

Johnson, 2026 Greater Piedmont REALTORS® President

The June details for Fauquier County

Compared to June 2025

Median Sales Price: $651,000, up from $637,000

Sales Activity: 109, up from 96 Days on Market: 7, down from 14

Greater Piedmont REALTORS® is a trade association representing 650 REALTORS® in Fauquier, Culpeper, Rappahannock, and Madison counties.

6751 HIGHLANDER COURT, WARRENTON

$1,150,000

Sold July 7

1901 MISTY MEADOWS LANE, MARKHAM

$1,100,000

Sold July 10 2

7534 CANNONEER COURT, WARRENTON

$1,080,000

Sold June 18

3039 CLEARVIEW FARM LANE, $1,050,000

Sold June 30 6 bedrooms 6 bathrooms 4,931 square feet 6.82 acres

7891 SPOTTED SADDLE COURT, $932,500

Sold June 29 5 bedrooms 3

ATKINS MAYFIELD GRAND WAITING

Fantastic 1 level living with bonus bedroom or flex room with full bath above garage with updated features and premium lot. Three and 1/2 baths, screened in covered porch. Over sized garage, Upgraded pantry with cabinets and built in shelving.

Interior finishes including upgraded cabinets, tile and flooring, have not been selected, giving you the opportunity to customize the space. The home is currently moving forward as a spec home, to ensure your design elements please give us a call.

To see a video of a similar model and explore more about this fantastic home, visit Atkinshomes.com. Don’t miss out on this incredible location and customizable opportunity!

DOUBLE HUNG LOW E WINDOWS

5 &1/4 INCH BASE MOLDINGS & CROWN, STANDARD, FLAT TOUCH SWITCHES

UPGRADED KITCHEN WITH GRANITE

UPGRADED FLOORING

MASTER BATH SHOWER WITH MUDPAN

DUAL FUEL HVAC, STANDARD, UPGRADED CERAMIC TILE

TRIM AROUND ALL WINDOWS

CUSTOM ONE COLOR THROUGHOUT HOUSE, FINISHED GARAGE

COVERED DECK WITH VINYL RAILING AND COMPOSITE DECKING

UPGRADED SIDING FOR A CRAFTSMAN STYLE LOOK, STANDARD.

LOW MAINTENANCE EXTERIOR WITH PVC BOARD (NO ALUMINUM WRAPPED WOOD HERE) YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED.

PIEDMONT PEOPLE

STORY AND PHOTOS

BY PETE SMITH

Just north of Warrenton, on 900 rolling acres under permanent conservation easement, two scientists have spent the better part of a decade quietly doing something remarkable — turning a small, scrappy nonprofit into one of the region's most vital centers for ecological research, environmental education, and land stewardship. Bert and Eleanor Harris, Co-Directors of The Clifton Institute, deserve far more recognition than they typically seek.

Their credentials alone are impressive. After earning his B.S. in Ecology and Biodiversity at Sewanee: The University of the South, Bert completed a Ph.D. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Adelaide, Australia, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at Princeton University. Eleanor's path was equally distinguished but charmingly indirect: she earned her B.A. in Mathematics at the University of Chicago, then — rediscovering a childhood love of animals — completed a Ph.D. in Quantitative and Computational Biology at Princeton, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Maryland.

What they've built together at Clifton is a place that operates at the intersection of science, education, and

Bert & Eleanor Harris

What they’ve built together at Clifton is a place that operates at the intersection of science, education, and conservation in ways that are rare for an organization of its size.

conservation in ways that are rare for an organization of its size. Bert directs a program of ecological research aimed at providing actionable recommendations to landowners, working with his team to restore native plant and animal communities on the Institute's 900-acre property — translating findings from peer-reviewed science into practical guidance for farmers and landowners in the Piedmont community. Eleanor oversees all of the organization's activities as Co-Director, with a particular focus on education and development.

The numbers tell part of the Institute’s story. Staff have documented 2,600 different species on the property, and the Institute holds the largest dataset in the world on kestrel movements — a distinction remarkable for an organization rooted in Northern Virginia. Last year, more than 3,000 students came through Clifton's education programs, experiencing firsthand what it means to walk through native meadows, observe raptors in flight, or press a wildflower seed into restored soil.

But perhaps what distinguishes Bert and Eleanor most is their philosophy. Before coming to Clifton, Bert observed that too much conservation biology is published in papers that nobody reads — and they've spent their tenure here correcting that. Programs range from field trips and summer camps to natural history lectures, nature journaling workshops, and an annual Native Plant Sale. The research they commission is carefully chosen: targeted projects that benefit how landowners can manage their land, not abstractions for distant audiences.

Fauquier County and the broader Northern Virginia Piedmont are richer — ecologically and communally — for the work Bert and Eleanor — and now their daughter Thea — have poured into this place. In a region under relentless development pressure, they tend to 900 acres of living, breathing evidence that conservation and community can grow together.

More information on the Clifton Institute can be found at cliftoninstitute.org

Farewell, Doug Graham

With a sharp eye and good humor, the veteran photojournalist chronicled Capitol Hill and country lanes

“Doug Graham was a hell of a photographer, but he was also that rarest of things: A fully realized human being.

He was serious about his job and his craft … But talk to his friends and colleagues and they invariably come back to stories about his life with his wife Dawn and daughter Lizzie, his love of the outdoors, especially his beloved Virginia woods, bicycling and motorcycling, and, always, his ability to laugh and find the absurd and silly in virtually any situation,” wrote Jason Dick, editor of CQ Roll Call, where Doug worked for years.

At Warrenton Lifestyle and the former Piedmont Virginian magazine, we were lucky — indeed honored — to work with Doug, who died July 12 of esophageal cancer. He was 65.

Among Doug’s many journalistic achievements was helping launch Loudoun Now, which preserved critical local news coverage in Virginia’s fourth-largest municipality. His colleagues there wrote about Doug’s life: Doug Graham’s photojournalism career began with a chance encounter at a laundromat while he was hanging out and searching for lost change. He was just a kid.

He picked up a copy of Life magazine, and he knew right then he wanted to be a photojournalist.

The issue he picked up included a photo story by Larry Burrows chronicling a helicopter gunship in Vietnam involved in a firefight. The graphic black and white photos capture the chaos and emotions as the crew comes under fire and the copilot is killed.

“One Ride with Yankee Papa 13” became one of the most famous photographic essays of the Vietnam War. The impression it left on Graham lasted a lifetime.

He convinced his father to buy him a Nikon 35mm camera and he soon learned to develop his own film and make black and white prints. In high school, Graham began shooting sports for his hometown paper.

In 1985, Doug began working for the Loudoun Times-Mirror in Leesburg, at the time the largest weekly paper in Virginia. He saw the paper through the transition from black and white to full color photography, a monumental shift that transformed the newspaper.

But Doug’s greatest achievement in that era was meeting “that cute girl at the camera shop,” Dawn Heinemann. The two dated for three years before eloping for a mountaintop ceremony in 1989 followed later by a traditional celebration. Their daughter Lisette (Lizzie) was born in 2005, and like her dad likes to hike and shoot a bow.

In 1997, Doug began commuting to DC to work for Congressional Quarterly, and then later for Roll Call, a Capitol Hill newspaper. His position with the White House press corps put him in touch with the best photojournalists in the world, and he became friends with photographers he had studied throughout his career. He was practicing the

craft at its highest level.

In 2014, Doug accepted a buyout offer from Roll Call and retired, but continued shooting freelance assignments. He also became part of a team of community members documenting Loudoun County’s rural roads through the America’s Routes project. Doug’s photos and videos captured the beauty and timeless scenes of a disappearing Loudoun landscape. His work earned an Edward R. Murrow Award and an Emmy Award for a feature story that was broadcast by Washington’s ABC affiliate.

In 2025, Doug was diagnosed with Stage 4 esophageal cancer. Even knowing the terminal outcome he faced, he undertook an effort to document his experience through a photojournalist’s eye. In that work, he sought to take readers into the world of those struggling with cancer and those in the medical field working to help them.

As the end of that journey neared, Doug said that work was the most important of his career and that he was grateful for the support he received from the community.

“I’ve never been so proud of anything in my life,” he said. l