WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE PHOTO BY KAREN PRESECAN

For Jim and Karen Beall, Fredericksburg has always held a special place in their hearts. Their journey together started decades ago in a ninth-grade science class at Crossland Sr. High in Camp Springs MD, where Karen first took notice of Jim—who, at that moment, was sitting outside the classroom for being disruptive. That fateful day sparked a high school romance that carried them through college at separate universities—Karen at Mary Washington College (now the University of Mary Washington) and Jim at the University of Maryland. Despite the distance, their love endured, leading to 40 years of marriage—though, as Karen humorously notes, “it feels like 47.”

WRITTEN BY ANGELA RICHWINE

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) is a specialized therapeutic approach to address functional disorders of the oral and facial muscles. It involves exercises and techniques designed to optimize the function of the tongue, lips, and facial muscles, which play critical roles in breathing, chewing, swallowing, and speaking. This therapy is becoming increasingly recognized for its benefits in improving overall oral and systemic health.

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE

Shane Heath, the founder of Battlefield Decks and Patios, has been transforming outdoor spaces in the community for over two decades. As a custom outdoor living contractor, Shane and his team specialize in creating stunning decks, porches, patios, and pools that elevate both the functionality and beauty of their clients’ homes. “We provide exceptional craftsmanship and customer experience,” Shane explains, emphasizing the high standards that set Battlefield Decks and Patios apart.

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE

Since 2021, Ryan Deane and his wife, Ellie, have been at the helm of Pro Service Plumbing & Gas, a family-owned business serving Stafford and the surrounding areas. Specializing in residential and commercial plumbing and gas services, Pro Service Plumbing & Gas can flush any problem. Their expertise ranges from fixing small leaks and water heater repairs to installing gas lines and replacing underground sewer systems. For Ryan, the journey of running a business has been as rewarding as it is challenging.

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE

The Presecan family of Stafford, Virginia, exemplifies a life enriched by a passion for animals, photography, and community. Karen and Hank Presecan, along with their children, Jackson and Vivian, have called Stafford home since 1999, when the Marine Corps first brought them to the area. Over the years, they have built a life rooted in their love for family, the natural world, and meaningful connections.

WRITTEN BY CHERICE TAYLOR

The Super Bowl attracts even those who aren’t typically fans of football. The Olympics brings together people from across the globe to watch the world’s best athletes compete. The Spelling Bee captures the attention of a national audience each year, cheering on the top spellers. Yet, when it comes to K-12 awards and recognition, opinions are divided. It’s often baffling to me how some dismiss the concept of "every kid getting a trophy." From my perspective, if effort is invested and goals are achieved, then everyone who reaches that goal should be acknowledged with an award, reward, or recognition.

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE, PHOTO BY KAREN PRESECAN

For Dr. Katrina Spies and her husband, Dave, life is centered around a love of animals, a passion for their community, and a commitment to living fully—whether at home in Stafford or traveling the world. Their story begins with an unexpected encounter.

WRITTEN BY KARIE OWENS

The new year brings new trends in interior colors, textiles, and themes. The easiest and least expensive way to provide a clean and fresh feel in your home is to paint. If your home is due for a "glow up" and you are shopping around for colors and ideas, consider the following.

WRITTEN BY KARIE OWENS

Valentine's Day is for love and deepening connections. Understanding how love is communicated and received could revolutionize Valentine’s Day and your relationships! The five love languages, a theory founded by Dr. Gary Chapman in his book The 5 Love Languages, is the idea that people have different ways of expressing and receiving love. When implemented, this can strengthen your relationship with your partner or child and enhance their emotional well-being. Pay attention to how your loved ones show love, or ask how they like to receive love. Use this to identify the following love languages.

WRITTEN BY DR. KATRINA SPIES, DVM

The heart is more than just a symbol of love—it's the essential organ that pumps blood to power the body. February is Heart Month, a perfect time to focus on your pet's heart health. By taking proactive steps, from prevention to early detection, you can help ensure your pet's heart stays strong for years to come.

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE

Since its inception in 2016, Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation has educated and empowered thousands of individuals across Virginia. This nonprofit organization has been on a mission to create a "Culture of Action"— a world where everyone is equipped and confident to save lives in the event of sudden cardiac arrest.

WRITTEN BY ZACH LETHBRIDGE

Whether you’re looking for a complete overhaul, smaller cost-effective changes to improve functionality or simply refreshing certain aspects of your kitchen to improve aesthetics, there are an array of options available to homeowners.  

WRITTEN BY REBECCA CHANDA

As women age, their hormone levels shift, leading to a variety of symptoms that can impact their quality of life. For many, these changes begin in their late 30s and early 40s. Symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, fatigue, weight gain, brain fog, and reduced libido can disrupt daily life and overall well-being. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) has gained attention as a solution for alleviating these symptoms. 

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE, PHOTO BY KAREN PRESECAN

In a charming neighborhood in Chancellorsville, Christy Heussner and her husband, Bob, have built a life filled with creativity, family, and community. Their story began decades ago in the professional world.

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE

Club Pilates Stafford, owned by Mitchell and Suzy Thompson, brings accessible, high-quality Pilates to the local community. Opening its doors in July 2023, the studio offers a range of group and private fitness classes incorporating both traditional and modern Pilates equipment. Its mission? To make Joseph Pilates' "contrology" method available to everyone.

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE, PHOTO BY KAREN PRESECAN

The Graham family is a portrait of faith, resilience, and ambition, living a life rooted in love and service in Stafford, Virginia. Tempest and Kingsley Graham, along with their three children—Janaria, Ethan, and Eleanora—have built not only a home but a cherished community around them. For the Grahams, Stafford isn’t just where they live; it’s where they thrive.

WRITTEN BY CHERICE TAYLOR

The start of a new calendar year means something different for each of us. For some, it's a chance to say goodbye to a challenging period and move forward. For others, it's an opportunity for a fresh start—time to set new goals and embrace new experiences. Many students are heading into the second semester of school with renewed ambitions, determined to finish strong. Some families are eagerly counting down the days to graduation, while others are considering homeschooling their children.

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE

Founded and led by Patrick Wade, Arbor Tech has earned a reputation for exceptional tree care services. With over two decades of experience in the industry, Wade's journey began in 1998 when, at just 16 years old, he realized his passion for working outdoors. 

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE, PHOTO BY KAREN PRESECAN

For over two decades, Tortica Anderson has epitomized what it means to be a good neighbor, giving back to the Stafford community and blending her entrepreneurial expertise with a passion for service. Tortica balances her roles as a mother, business owner, and community outreach advocate, profoundly impacting those around her. Her story is a prime example of resilience, creativity, and a commitment to improving the world around her—one event, meal, or simple act of kindness at a time.

WRITTEN BY MALLORY HARDGROVE

Diagnosed with ALS in 2020, Jessica "Jessi" Story chose a path of resilience and hope. With her best friend and advocate, Rebecca Church, Jessi launched the Fight ALS for Jess Foundation, a nonprofit that supports families affected by this devastating disease.