Stafford Magazine | October/November 2022

Now accepting

new

We’re honored to be recognized by our neighbors in the Stafford community. Thank you for voting for us!

Congratulations! Mary Washington

Services of Stafford Mary Washington Weight Loss Center

VOLUME 3, ISSUE 5

PUBLISHER

MAGAZINE

Bruce Potter bpotter@insidenova.com 571-333-1538

DIGITAL EDITOR

Kari Pugh karipugh@insidenova.com

ADVERTISING

Sales Leader: Connie Fields cfields@insidenova.com (703) 303-8713

Account Executive: Rick Bockes rbockes@insidenova.com

Account Executive: Brenda Powell bpowell@insidenova.com

ART DIRECTOR

Kara Thorpe

STAFF REPORTERS

Dave Fawcett

CONTRIBUTORS

Eric Althoff

Tracy Bell Andrew Farewell David S. Kerr

PUBLISHED BY: Rappahannock Media LLC / InsideNoVa 1360 Old Bridge Road Woodbridge VA 22192 (703) 318-1386

PRESIDENT Dennis Brack dbrack@rappnews.com

Carina Richard-Wheat cwheat@insidenova.com

www.staffordmagazine.com

Ultimate

League draws a variety of video game players to its new location in Stafford.

Fun and Games

New Stafford venue offers tournaments and more

BY ERIC ALTHOFF

Titus Walker and his partners have created perhaps the apogee for the inner 12-year-old that lives on inside most adult video game aficionados. In a business park near Aquia Harbour, Ultimate Endgamers League hosts group play, online tournaments and in-person league play.

STARTS HERE. YOUR FUTURE

Oh, and there’s money to be made here, sweetening the dream even further. In December, the venue will host a $40,000 tournament.

“Our tournaments are no small thing,” said Walker, the CEO and co-founder of Ultimate Endgamers League. “The players are making real money and getting real opportunities.”

He noted that some of the younger players have received eSports scholarship offers.

Walker and his wife, Kayli, had most of the moving parts in place for the business by the end of 2019. Gaming had always been big in their home – the couple has seven children – and they saw an opportunity to spread that spirit of group fun to others

GERMANNA IS YOUR COLLEGE

We’re proud to serve Stafford and online learners everywhere.

Whether you’re university-bound, careerfocused, or not sure—start here and we will help you choose the right path, find the right program, and get you started.

GERMANNA.EDU

Endgamers

Titus Walker is CEO of Ultimate Endgamers League.

BY KAYLI WALKER

BY KAYLI WALKER

in Stafford. It was also a way, Walker said, to entice hard-core gamers out of the basement.

“I see myself as probably more of the ‘normal’ gamer, where I don’t have 10 hours a day to sit on one video game,” Walker said. “I don’t have the attention span. I like playing a lot of games.”

He wanted to create a competition for people like him. “So I would say we are more for the casual gamer with a competitive spirit.”

Walker brought in partners such as Anthony Fuentes, general manager of the Fredericksburg Bandits gaming team, and Ryan Grieb, owner of the Fredericksburg Ghost gaming team, who happened to be a friend of Walker’s since their youth. Also on board is Vernon Green, the owner and CEO of the consulting firm GCubed. This

personnel framework helped to get those massive tournaments off the ground.

“I have a great team of people that have helped me take that blueprint from inception to where now we have a complete infrastructure,” Walker said. “We now have over 200 [players] that either compete or are a part of the team.”

But no team, however solid, could outmuscle COVID, which made its presence known just as Walker and his partners were pressing the “Go” button on Ultimate Endgamers League in early 2020.

“The first month that we opened was the month that they ended up shutting everything down,” Walker recalled. “So that was not fun, and we had to push it back. Essentially I was personally funding everything for the next almost two years.”

When restrictions on gatherings began to ease, the business reopened but had to limit attendance. Every gaming station was sanitized and mask requirements were enforced. But it was important to be together in person again, Walker believed.

“People want to socialize. And it’s tough when you’re in an arcade but you’re keeping [players] from talking to each other,” Walker said of socially distanced play. “It’s difficult to communicate with a mask and you can’t get close enough to understand [with] music in the background.”

It took time, but the gamers did return, to the point that the arcade component of Ultimate Endgamers League is now operating alongside the league play. League tournaments are streamed for online spectators to watch and cheer for their favorite contestants. Players must be at least 10 years old to participate – and there is no age ceiling.

“Our oldest is 45 or something like that; he won’t tell anybody his age,” Walker said.

One of the regular players is Allen Andre, who uses the gamer name “DrDrizzle” or “The Doc.”

“I was fortunate enough to walk into the venue on the first day that it opened in Fredericksburg with my 11-year-old son,” Andre said. “We were in heaven!”

He describes himself as a “jock” growing up, but his son wasn’t into athletics. However, Andre and his son, who goes by the gamer handle “QWERTY,” found a natural way to bond over competitive gaming.

“This was an opportunity to teach him the fundamentals of teamwork that are most commonly learned while playing athletics,” Andre said. “Being the competitor I am, I groomed him into playing video games with the mindset that every time you sit down to play, play to win.”

Andre said those lessons align with the goals Titus and his team had in mind for Ultimate Endgamers League. He also gets to play as a team with his son.

“Titus, quickly knowing that our relationship was more about my son gaming, said, ‘You should play too,’” Andre said. “This gaming community is so unique with all walks of life coming together for one passion: Play to win!”

Andre even helped Titus design the Stafford location when the business

Ultimate Endgamers League regulars include Allen Andre (right), who uses the gamer name “DrDrizzle.”

outgrew its former digs in Fredericksburg. He often comes to the business just to hang out and socialize rather than compete.

Those sentiments were echoed by Marcus Davis, who goes by the handle “Polo.” He enjoys Ultimate Endgamers League’s unique sense of community; it’s a place he truly feels “at home.”

“UEL really reignited my passion for competition and teamwork,” he added. “Learning others’ stories, while sharing mine over a common interest, has been such a bright spot for me.”

Next summer, Ultimate Endgamers League will resume its eSports summer

camp, which provides hands-on training in video game play, as well as physical activities, free lunches and the chance to learn about friendly competition in a safe atmosphere. In collaboration with GCubed, it’s also an educational venture, focusing on STEM topics amidst all of the electronic beeps and laser beams.

The program has military and career applications in drone programming, virtual reality, engineering and broadcasting. “It’s the future,” Walker said. “We are trying to make sure that we prepare the gamers in case they don’t make it as pro gamers.”

Ultimate Endgamers League has

collaborated with Ultimate Gaming League (UGL), founded by former NFL players Marshawn Lynch, Chad Johnson and Josh Johnson. Although UGL is on the West Coast, Stafford’s contingent will soon be playing against them.

“We’ve already played the New York team…and we beat them 15-5,” said Walker, beaming with pride. “That shows the level of skill here in Stafford and Fredericksburg in the gamers that we have in this competition.”

The business has also partnered with colleges, including the University of Mary Washington, Germanna Community College and Shenandoah University, for both fun and learning.

“It’s not necessarily all about skills in one game, [but] more about someone’s ability to adapt and learn,” Walker said. “So there is very much an educational aspect to it while also still having the fun that kids like – and grownups too.”

Anyone can sign for the league for free. Players are entered into a draft to be chosen by various teams. Players who are less competitive can pay by the hour to play for fun. The venue can also be rented for a birthday party or other functions.

It’s not all fun and games – though mostly it is. Walker enthused about internship opportunities, in which apprentices can learn about journalism and podcasting, as well as the ins and outs of drafting and trading players between teams. And even if the end goal isn’t to be a pro gamer, the business provides an opportunity to those amateur players who might not have reliable internet at home.

“While it is great for the players to be able to have a community, we’ve really shined within the league, where players are actually getting opportunities to make money and earn a living playing video games,” Walker said.

It’s every 12-year-old’s dream – and even those well past that age who never lost that childlike love of gaming.

Eric Althoff is a freelance writer who lives in Stafford County.

Ultimate Endgamers League

LOCATION: 10 Center St. in Stafford

HOURS: Wednesdays-Fridays, 4-10 p.m.; Saturdays, noon-midnight; Sundays, 1-8 p.m.

MORE INFORMATION: Visit UltimateEndgamersLeague.com.

Compassionate Care Right at Home HOAF Means Hope

Ryan Grieb, owner of the Fredericksburg Ghost gaming team, is one of the partners in Ultimate Endgamers League.

BY KAYLI WALKER

Beyond Beer

Brewery founder Barry Boyd prioritizes community

BY TRACY BELL

He may not be Sam Malone, but Barry Boyd knows the importance of a welcoming gathering spot that prioritizes its community, friends and neighbors. That’s why he founded Stafford’s Barley Naked Brewing Company – and he was chosen the most community-involved person in Stafford Magazine’s Best of Stafford 2022 voting.

Community has always been a foundation of his business, Boyd said.

“Community is important because that is what ties us as neighbors and brings us together. It gives us a sense of belonging,” he added. “I’ve been told that Barley Naked is like the TV show, ‘Cheers,’ and I smile, because that is exactly what I was hoping for – a place where you matter and people know, or at least recognize you. That is what we try to accomplish with our little

“Sometimes you want to GO… where EVERYBODY knows your name.... And they’re ALWAYS glad you came…”

Left: Barley Naked’s head brewer, Brady Fox, pours a beer from a tap.

Above: Founder Barry Boyd relaxes with a beer in the brewery.

COURTESY

BY ANDREW FAREWELL

brewery, and I do believe that it is working.” Boyd opened the neighborhood brewhouse and taproom in October 2018 off Route 610 in North Stafford.

All endeavors, activities and events the brewery takes on are tied to a charity, Boyd said, giving local nonprofits a way to raise money. And Barley Naked has supported a variety of organizations and events, including The Fairy Godmother Project, Stafford Food Security, kNOw Hunger, Disabled American Veterans Chapter 9, First Responder K-9, Willing Warriors, Go For Bo’s 5K Run, the Semper Fi Fund, Talons Reach Foundation, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and more.

The brewery is also a big supporter of area military, local schools and neighborhood softball teams.

Tim White, executive director of the nonprofit Stafford Food Security, which focuses on getting food to children in need, said Barley Naked chose his organization as

BY ANDREW FAREWELL

Dr. Falkenberg, M.D. at SIEHT Eye and Laser Center is a leader in laser vision correction. Combining the most advanced technology available with the unparalleled 20+ years experience of Thomas Falkenberg, your LASIK procedure at SIEHT will deliver the best vision possible.

Barley Naked founder Barry Boyd joins some customers on a recent afternoon. The brewery is known for hosting large events, many of which benefit local nonprofits.

the beneficiary of a fundraising event during the July Fourth weekend and hosted a food drive during the pandemic.

“Barley Naked is helping SFS succeed at our mission to shield children from hunger," White said.

But Boyd was humbled by the Best of Stafford accolade, believing the recognition should go to someone else.

To Boyd, providing a relaxed, low-key environment for people to unwind and connect, where everyone feels welcome, is important – along with offering some “very good hand-crafted beer.” His personal favorite is The German Pils.

Over the summer, Barley Naked took home three medals at the Virginia Craft Beer Cup competition. In the Blond & Cream Ale category, Barley Naked earned a silver medal for its golden lager, For Fox Sake. By the way, cream ales don’t have dairy products in them, Boyd pointed out.

Boyd said the smooth and malty Cream Ale, which he called “a straw-colored, medium body with a nice aftertaste,” is the brewery’s best-seller.

Barley Naked won another silver in the Irish Red category for Rockhill Irish Red and a bronze in the Dark European category, for Drop Your Schwartz – a German Schwarzbier.

Lisa Logan, assistant director of Stafford County's Economic Development & Tourism office, said Boyd’s accolades are no surprise. “He exemplifies community stewardship, is a tremendous tourism and hospitality partner and is always brewing up a new event or initiative.”

Boyd isn’t having all of this fun alone.

Barley Naked is a family business he runs with his wife, Missy, who was a preschool teacher before the brewery was born. The couple, who have two daughters – Sammy and Bri – live in North Stafford’s Settler’s Landing.

They operate the brewery with the help of 26 employees, including Bri Boyd, who heads creative content and also helps

•

• Stop Smoking

• Stress Relief, Depression, Migraine, Insomnia

BY ANDREW FAREWELL

Dreaming of a better commute?

I-95 traffic is rapidly returning to pre-COVID-19 levels. Instead of fighting traffic on I-95, hop on a comfortable OmniRide Express bus. Two routes originate at the Staffordboro Commuter Lot to the Pentagon and Washington, D.C.

OmniRide Express Routes

with brewing and serving.

Boyd served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1985 until he retired in 2014. An assignment to Coast Guard headquarters in Washington brought the family to Stafford from Cape May, N.J., in 2003.

Around the same time, Boyd took up homebrewing as a hobby and dreamed of opening a brewery – but he wanted its foundation to be built not just on a passion for beer, but on community and family as well.

He learned more about making beer after volunteering at Black Cap Brewery in Pennsylvania, where his wife grew up. There, he learned under Black Cap’s owner, Greg Bentley, who became his mentor. Boyd named a beer after him when Barley Naked opened.

His long-standing vision – for Barley Naked to be a part of the community and a retreat where people can gather, meet, relax and talk – eventually became a reality.

“I truly believe that if people can sit and talk over a pint,” Boyd said, “you will find more that we have in common than what divides us.”

Tracy Bell is a freelancer who lives in Stafford County.

Want to Go?

BARLEY NAKED BREWING CO.

LOCATION: 15 Tech Parkway, Stafford

HOURS: Sundays, Wednesdays and Thursdays – 2-8 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays – 2-10 p.m.; closed Mondays and Tuesdays

MORE INFORMATION: (540) 623-4475; barleynaked.com

meet the BEST OF STAFFORD 2022

Stafford Magazine received a record 10,670 votes from readers – a 25% increase from last year – in our annual Best of Stafford survey, conducted online in August, and we’re pleased to announce the winners on the pages that follow in 108 different categories. They were chosen from nearly 800 businesses, organizations and individuals that received nominations this year. Over the next few months, you’ll see banners, plaques and window clings going up in many of these winning businesses. Congratulations to all of the winners – and thank you for everything you do to make the North Stafford community a special place!

DATE SPOT

Barley Naked Brewing Co.

15 TECH PKWY., STAFFORD, 22556 (540) 623-4475

BARLEYNAKED.COM

Barley Naked Brewing Company believes that there are three keys to happiness: love, friendship, and good beer. It is important to us at Barley Naked to make sure everyone feels welcome in this little community we have created. So whether you’re from out of town or have lived in Stafford your whole life, you’re family to us. We firmly believe that if people can sit down and connect over a beer, they’ll find they have more in common than they have differences. Life is too complicated and way too short, so relax, smile, and get Barley Naked!

HAPPY HOUR SPOT

Barley Naked Brewing Co.

15 TECH PKWY., STAFFORD, 22556 (540) 623-4475

BARLEYNAKED.COM

See write-up, Date Spot category.

There’s got to be an easier way to get to work!

Stafford

LIBRARY

Central Rappahannock Regional Library / Porter Branch

2001 PARKWAY BLVD., STAFFORD, 22554 (540) 372-1144

LIBRARYPOINT.ORG

LOCAL ATTRACTION Government Island

MOST COLORFUL CHARACTER

Lt. Deuntay Diggs, Stafford County Sheriff’s Office

MOST COMMUNITY-INVOLVED BUSINESS Mission BBQ

MOST COMMUNITY-INVOLVED PERSON

Barry Boyd, Barley Naked Brewing Co.

15 TECH PKWY., STAFFORD, 22556 (540) 623-4475

BARLEYNAKED.COM

See write-up, Date Spot category.

PLACE OF WORSHIP Mount Ararat Church

PLACE TO WORK

Barley Naked Brewing Company

15 TECH PKWY., STAFFORD, 22556 (540) 623-4475

BARLEYNAKED.COM

See write-up, Date Spot category.

PUBLIC SERVANT

Lt. Deuntay Diggs, Stafford County Sheriff’s Office

WORST TRAFFIC HAZARD Interstate 95

ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT

MUSIC INSTRUCTOR Chris Cepulis, Bang Music

PERFORMING ARTS GROUP

Amyclae Dance Academy

45 WALPOLE ST., STAFFORD, 22554 (540) 903-2136

AMYCLAEDANCE.COM

Amyclae offers classes in ballet, contemporary, jazz, musical theater, tap, acrodance, hip-hop and more. Amyclae has award-winning competition companies and many specialty competition teams for advanced students. At Amyclae, we understand that not everyone decides to begin dancing at an early age. We offer beginner classes with no experience required, for elementary, middle and high school students. See classes, schedules, prices and a registration form at AmyclaeDance.com or email info@amyclaedance.com. Make today the day you take that step to join Amyclae. Thank you, Stafford!

AUTOMOTIVE

AUTO

AUTO

Barber Academy

93 ONVILLE ROAD, STAFFORD, 22556 (540) 720-1052

SEWARDSBARBERACADEMY.COM

EYELASH/ BROW EXTENSION SALON

Mind Soul Beauty Bar

HAIR SALON

Winning Image Salon & Day Spa

55 DOC STONE ROAD, STAFFORD, 22556

WINNINGIMAGESALONANDDAYSPA.COM

Winning Image began in 1993 as a small hair, nail and tanning salon. Because we listened to our customers, our business grew and we expanded to a second location. With our most recent expansion into a salon and day spa, we continue our commitment to take a genuine interest in your personal beauty needs. We will accomplish this by listening to your personal beauty goals, paying attention to your individual skin and hair type and learning about your personal style preferences. Thank you for your continued confidence in our services

HAIRSTYLIST/BARBER

Brooke Shelton, Winning Image Salon & Day Spa

MASSAGE SERVICES

Stafford Massage & Healing Arts

385 GARRISONVILLE ROAD, #211, STAFFORD, 22554 (540) 288-8888

STAFFORDVAMASSAGE.COM

We are thankful that you chose us and for your continued support. Your choice for us to be your place of healing, escaping the everyday grind, and supporting our local vendors through our retail shop, is greatly appreciated!

CHILDCARE/ EDUCATION

Winning Image Salon & Day Spa

55 DOC STONE ROAD, STAFFORD, 22556

WINNINGIMAGE SALONANDDAYSPA.COM

See write-up, Hair Salon category.

SPA

Winning Image Salon & Day Spa

55 DOC STONE ROAD, STAFFORD, 22556

WINNINGIMAGESALON ANDDAYSPA.COM

See write-up, Hair Salon category.

TANNING SALON Palm Beach Tan

CAMP/SUMMER PROGRAM Amyclae Dance Academy

45 WALPOLE ST., STAFFORD, 22554 (540) 903-2136

AMYCLAEDANCE.COM See write-up, Performing Arts Group category.

CHILDCARE/PRESCHOOL

St. William of York Catholic School

3130 JEFFERSON DAVIS HIGHWAY, STAFFORD, 22554 (540) 659-5207

STWILLSCHOOL.ORG

COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY

Germanna Community College

124 OLD POTOMAC CHURCH ROAD, STAFFORD, 22554 (540) 891-3000

GERMANNA.EDU

Germanna Community College breaks down barriers and shapes the future. We are open to all residents of Stafford County and offer an educational experience that is second to none in terms of quality and student outcomes. Germanna is a family of individuals – each respected for their unique talents, perspectives, backgrounds and abilities – that consistently strives to not only be our best but to be the best. Located at the Barbara J. Fried Center at 124 Old Potomac Church Road in Stafford and online everywhere.

DAYCARE

Living Hope Child Development Center

PRIVATE SCHOOL

St. William of York Catholic School

3130 JEFFERSON DAVIS HIGHWAY, STAFFORD, 22554 (540) 659-5207

STWILLSCHOOL.ORG

TEACHER Hayley Kingham, The Goddard School

NAIL SALON

Inspired by yoga, Pilates and ballet, our low-impact, high-intensity technique benefits clients at every fitness level and protects your joints from injury while

DINING

AMERICAN CUISINE

Mason Dixon Cafe

11 HOPE ROAD, STAFFORD, 22554 (540) 280-3131

MASONDIXONCAFE.COM

20 DUNN DRIVE, STAFFORD, 22556

1500 EMANCIPATION HIGHWAY, FREDERICKSBURG, 22401 (540) 628-2086 STAFFORD (540) 373-3881 FREDERICKSBURG

UMISTAFFORD.COM

Head to Umi Japanese Cuisine for scrumptious sushi fare in Stafford.

Found on Dunn Drive, it delights you with its extensive Japanese menu and a wonderful atmosphere. Menu highlights include miso soup, crab salad entree and wasabi prawn.

15 TECH PKWY., STAFFORD, 22556 (540) 623-4475

BARLEYNAKED.COM See write-up, Date Spot category. BBQ

20 DUNN DRIVE, STAFFORD, 22556

1500 EMANCIPATION HIGHWAY, FREDERICKSBURG, 22401 (540) 628-2086 STAFFORD (540) 373-3881 FREDERICKSBURG

SERVICES

FIREFIGHTER/ RESCUE Falmouth Volunteer Fire Department

LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

Lt. Deuntay Diggs, Stafford County Sheriff’s Office

HEALTH/MEDICAL

CHIROPRACTOR

Dr. Joshua Cole, Sentara Therapy of Stafford

(FORMERLY COLE SPORTS CHIROPRACTIC & REHAB)

95 DUNN DRIVE, SUITE 123, STAFFORD, 22556 (540) 242-4489

COLESPORTSCHIROPRACTIC COM

Dr. Joshua Cole, DC, DCABSP, treats patients of all ages and ability levels from office workers to professional and Olympic athletes. As an experienced chiropractor, Dr. Cole can help you heal from common ailments, accidents and athletic injuries resulting from day-to-day life so you can perform at your maximum potential. If you have an injury that is causing you pain, interfering with your everyday life or impeding your progress toward your athletic goals, schedule an appointment with Dr. Cole. Our services extend past the expected and include injury prevention, performance enhancement, nutrition and rehabilitation. Using the latest proven treatment options, we’ll help you to return faster to the active, pain-free lifestyle you enjoy!

DENTIST

Aquia Dental Care

EYE DOCTOR/OPTOMETRY

PRACTICE

Eagle Eye Vision Center

120 SOARING DRIVE, STAFFORD, 22556 (540) 720-0407

EEVC2020.COM

Eagle Eye Vision Center is proud to be recognized as the Best Optometry Practice in Stafford. Dr. Christina and Dr. Kevin Dixon have been providing personal, professional, quality comprehensive eye exams in Stafford for over 20 years. We diagnose and treat a variety of eye conditions, including diabetes, kerataconus, glaucoma, cataracts and emergency conditions. Our optical boutique carries the highest quality frames and sunglasses with lens options for all ages. We are now offering the FDA-approved OptiLight for the treatment of dry eye. Call today to schedule an appointment at (540) 720-0407.

GENERAL PRACTITIONER

MaryWashington PrimaryCare

422 GARRISONVILLE ROAD SUITE 102, STAFFORD, 22554 (540) 741-3328

PRIMARYCARE.MWHC.COM

OBSTETRICIAN/ GYNECOLOGIST/MIDWIFE Dr.KurianThott, Women’sHearth& SurgeryCenter

ORTHODONTIST DrMatthewH. Caspersen

PEDIATRICIAN Dr.TamaraLoving, PediatricPartners ofStafford

TIE

ANIMAL RESCUE

Purrs and Whiskers

PET GROOMING Dog Krazy Inc.

PET WALKER/SITTER Happy Tails

VETERINARIAN

Aquia Garrisonville Animal Hospital

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

ATTORNEY

Yvonne Nageotte, Nageotte, Nageotte, & Nageotte, P.C.

385 GARRISONVILLE ROAD, SUITE 202, STAFFORD, 22554 (540) 659-5050

NAGEOTTELAWFIRM.COM

Yvonne J. Nageotte has over 26 years of experience as a trial attorney in Virginia, concentrating in the area of domestic relations and litigating complex legal issues involving divorce, child custody, visitation, child support, spousal support and property division under the equitable distribution statute. The lawyers at the law firm of Nageotte, Nageotte & Nageotte, P.C., also represent clients in the drafting and negotiation of premarital agreements and separation and property settlement agreements, adoption, guardianships, name changes, real estate, wills, living wills and powers of attorney.

COUNTERTOPS

Fab Granite

ELECTRICIAN

Kelly Electric Services

FLOORING/CARPET COMPANY

Pacheco’s Hardwood Floors

309 KINGSLAND DRIVE, STAFFORD, 22556 (571) 383-5946

PACHECOSHARDWOODFLOOR.COM

Enos and Amy Pacheco started their business in 2019. Pacheco’s Hardwood Floor installs only hardwood floors. They specialize in one thing so they can be the best at what they do. Enos has been in the hardwood floor industry since 1999. Pacheco’s Hardwood Floor meets the high standards of homeowners in the area. They are focused on good business practices – showing up when they say they will, working hard, doing the job right and not just fast, keeping the job site clean and communicating with their clients. Along with three great crews, they produce superior hardwood floor installations, refinish and repair projects, at a competitive price and with personable service.

HVAC COMPANY

Ram Company Heating & Air Conditioning Inc.

SERVING STAFFORD AND SURROUNDING AREAS (703) 232-0366

RAMCOMPANYHVAC.COM

Ram Heating and Air Conditioning Inc. will work with you to find HVAC solutions that fit your heating and cooling needs. We will provide you with a full consultation to explain all of your available options so that you can choose the system that’s right for your home or business. We serve both residential and commercial clients and offer a variety of money-saving solutions. We combine our use of the highest quality parts and equipment and our dedication to delivering exceptional service to provide you with top-quality service. Warranty included with all services.

LANDSCAPE CONSULTANT

Virginia Water Gardens

MASON/DECKS

Greystone Masonry

GREYSTONEMASONRY.ORG

540-752-5658

Monarch Pool Care is a family-owned and operated business serving the Stafford and Fredericksburg areas. Throughout our 17-year history, we have worked hard to provide quality care and service for our customers, growing to serve thousands of local pool and spa families. Our two retail locations offer seven-day-a-week in-store care and support, Bullfrog and Nordic hot tubs, Finnleo saunas, and Radiant Above-ground DIY pools We carry everything you’ll need to maintain and enjoy your pool or spa investment. Our technicians provide seasonal opening/closing services, weekly maintenance, equipment repair and renovation, liner replacement and more. Remember to “improve your view by looking up to quality” with Monarch Pool Care.

TEEN RUGBY STARS GOLDEN EMPANADAS CLOSET KON MARI SUPER See the unique features planned for two sites our backyard.

ONE MORE TREAT Halloween With several open seats uncontested races, there already several new faces Prince William Vega, Republican

Homeschooling

PARKS issue!INTRODUCING ASHBURN MAGAZINE

T Prince William Board Counfollowing Nov. election. demake the balwill still They’ll deterbents able keep their seats. crats flip 6-2 Republican majority. High school football players can buy

Elections will result least four new supervisors MARCH-APRIL

HAYMARKET/ GAINESVILLE LIFESTYLE

FEBRUARY 2022 Meet Duke Your Choice for Cutest Pet!

Ruth Anderson, Republican Kenny Allen Boddye, Democrat Victor Angry,

INSIDE: PAGE paper include

nearly doubles since 2014 ttics like graveyards, where sentimental treasures are placed boxes plastic bags and shoved into dark corners, allowing pain parting postponed for another day. Photo albums and love letters, comic books and cowboy boots, tea sets and violins — better forgotten future generations brush aside and deal attic stashes consist

premiere WATER

MYSTERY ville, said doesn’t support road approve deny allowing the county borrow $355 million for transportation projects, including $200 million Candland said the process politically motivated, proposed without analysis which projects would help most people and how the real estate property Th Prince William Board County Supervisors has policy not increase year while also planning revenue increascapital projects, such the $43 million expansion Adult

typical family clutter. Some prove valuable historic. Then there those rare beneath the rafters and cobwebs that downright shocking and creepy. was case this past musty attic Clover Hill Sperryville Pike, where Eldon Farms’ longtime herdsman Rich Bradley stumbled upon

OF CLOVER HILL McCaslin Rappahannock News staff Station Plaza to become mixed-use development after $19.1M sale The county’s plan for North Woodbridge calls increased density area near VRE. Prince William Oct. approve North Woodbridge plan, which outlines future land use and plans for town center and urban neighborhoods that have walkability OCTOBER 25-31, 2019 Changes in store for county board

Stafford MAGAZINE SIX KEYSWinning the War for Talent JOHNNY MAC SOLDIERS FUNDHonoring the fallen one scholarship time ROADMAP TO Embracing ApprenticeshipsWARRENTON LIFESTYLE Annual Pet Issue! Meet Pet Contest winner Jackson K9s of Fauquier County, out the ordinary pets, and Fauquier Health’s Pet Therapy program volunteers

FAITHFUL FRIENDS: Our Community’s Power Trio LOCAL HERO: Renee Small and Hope and Serenity Farm Sanctuary; loving and caring for rescues since 2017 OUR NEIGHBORS: Erin DeSalvo and Acorns Oaks Childcare offers education, fun, and lots love little 30 STAFFORD MAGAZINE • OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2022 STAFFORD MAGAZINE • OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2022 31

Valentines Day coming: Musical Tour Force: Local teacher Peyton From Zimbabwe Warrenton:

RECREATION/FITNESS

1630 PUBLIX WAY, #120 STAFFORD, 22554 (540) 669-0793

PUREBARRE.COM/LOCATION/STAFFORD-VA

At Pure Barre Stafford our goal is to transform your body both physically and mentally. Our musically driven full-body workouts focus on low-impact, small movements that target strength, cardio and flexibility carefully crafted for people of all fitness levels. We welcome you to find your balance at our studio and be inspired by our amazing community of members and teachers. Located at 1630 Publix Way, #120, in Stafford.

Always on the Go

Stafford High graduate Jackson Hopkins works on his soccer game non-stop

BY DAVID FAWCETT

Thump. Thump. Thump.

Jeff Hopkins and his wife, Laurie, knew the early-morning sound the moment they heard it. Standing in their driveway, their youngest son, Jackson, was once again kicking the soccer ball against their Stafford County house.

Sometimes the ball went astray and hit the house’s siding or cracked some air vents. But usually Hopkins targeted his shot in the right place, much to his father’s delight.

“Thank God it was part of the foundation up against the brick,” Jeff Hopkins said.

No one complained about the disruption, not even the neighbors. Everyone understood. Whether finetuning his shot location or improving his passing by doing drills with his father on their street, Hopkins was working on his game.

“The biggest thing is that soccer brings him lots of joy,” Jeff said. “He loved it. And he

always enjoyed doing it. It was about wanting to get better.”

Hopkins’ commitment over the years has led to a quick rise up the professional ranks as well as putting him in position to represent the United States at the next U-20 World Cup and Summer Olympic Games.

Hopkins’ ascent began April 13 when D.C. United

announced it had signed the 18-year-old midfielder as a home-grown player.

By turning pro, Hopkins passed up the chance to play soccer at the University of Virginia. It was a difficult decision to turn down one of the nation’s top collegiate programs. But Hopkins was ready to become a full-time

soccer player.

“I always knew I wanted to be a pro,” Hopkins said. “That made it easier.”

Then on June 24, Hopkins received more good news when U.S. Soccer announced it had added him as an injuryreplacement to its 20-player roster for the 2022 Concacaf Under-20 Championship. This

Jackson Hopkins (right) has started and come off the bench this season for D.C. United.

COURTESY D.C. UNITED

was Hopkins’ first time with a national team.

Hopkins had left the initial training camp earlier in the year knowing the coaches planned to bring him back if a spot opened up. It was a short wait. U.S. Soccer released its initial U-20 roster June 10. A little less than two weeks later, Hopkins saw a voicemail on his phone from a number he didn’t recognize.

But once he retrieved the message from the national team, Hopkins became excited. The

U-20s needed a new midfielder after Obed Vargas suffered a back injury.

So off Hopkins went, rejoining the national team in Honduras in preparation for its round of 16 matchup June 25 against Nicaragua. The U.S. won that game en route to capturing the title for the third straight time. The team also qualified for the 2023 U-20 World Cup in Indonesia and, for the first time since 2008, the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

Hopkins returned to compete with the U-20s as one of 20 players on the U.S. roster for the Revelations Cup in Mexico City from Sept. 18-28.

“I always wanted this,” said Hopkins. “And now that we’ve qualified for the World Cup and the Olympics, it makes it that much more awesome.”

STAYING FOCUSED

To get to this point required discipline as Hopkins balanced soccer with school.

Hopkins attended Stafford High School in person for his first two years before doing his work online his final two years so he could drive to Leesburg and attend Loudoun United FC’s morning practices.

Loudoun United FC is D.C. United’s second-division club.

The round trip took three

hours and meant some late nights staying up to finish his homework. But he remained diligent and met all his requirements to graduate early in December 2021.

He couldn’t attend graduation ceremonies in May due to a D.C. United game that same day. But Hopkins made time to stop by for a moment and say hello to his friends before heading out.

Hopkins’ parents supported his decision to turn pro.

“This was his dream,” Jeff said. “We still want him to go to college and MLS will help with that. But you only get to do this once.”

D.C. United’s interest in the 6-foot-2 Hopkins took off after he started playing with Loudoun United FC in July 2021.

Hopkins had been a member

Did You Know?

Jackson Hopkins is the first player from a Stafford County high school to play in Major League Soccer since 1998 North Stafford graduate Chris Carrieri. Carrieri was the 2001 No. 1 overall pick in the Major League Soccer SuperDraft and played three seasons.

of the D.C. United Academy since 2018 as a 14-year-old. He left briefly in 2021 to play with the New York Red Bulls Academy due to Jeff’s job in New Jersey. But Hopkins returned to the D.C. United’s academy soon after due to the pandemic.

Hopkins impressed once he joined Loudoun.

“We could tell from the start that Jackson has a unique skill set for someone at 17 years old,” Stewart Mairs, Loudoun United’s general manager, said in a statement when Hopkins signed with D.C. United. “He has a strong physique, but he also has intuition with the ball at his feet.”

D.C. United brought him to train with the first team full-time once Loudoun’s season ended.

He remained with the Major League Soccer franchise during the preseason before D.C. United offered him a four-year contract through 2025 with options the following two years.

“He possesses a unique set of skills on the field with size and physicality combined with great feet and awareness on the ball,” Lucy Rushton, D.C. United General Manager, said in a statement regarding Hopkins’ signing.

Hopkins’ first year with D.C. United has featured its ups and downs for a struggling team. D.C. United was 7-19-6 going

into its final two regular-season matches in October.

He has also adjusted to the more physical side of the game. Plus, he’s learned first-hand how quickly things change at the top.

Hopkins has played for three head coaches this season. He began with Hernán Losada, who was fired after a 2-4 start. Assistant coach Chad Ashton was named the interim coach before D.C. United named former English soccer star Wayne Rooney as its head coach July 12.

“It’s not what I expected when I signed,” said Hopkins, who had played in 19 games with 10 starts through September. “I’ve gotten to experience something like this so early. Some have and some have not. This is good for me.”

STAYING ACTIVE

Hopkins comes from an athletic family. A high-scoring forward, Jeff helped lead Chancellor High School to the 1990 state soccer title, and his mom was a multi-sport standout at Stafford before graduating in 1991.

His parents introduced him to soccer as a 3-year-old when he participated in the Soccer Tots league at the Fredericksburg Field House before he eventually moved on to higher levels of competition.

But as Hopkins advanced, he did so knowing his parents supported him no matter what he chose to do.

“They let me be normal,” Hopkins said.

He used any free moment he had to develop his game, especially at home.

Sometimes, Hopkins practiced alone. Other times, he and his dad passed the ball between them on their street. And then there were times when the entire Hopkins family played two-on-two in the street.

Those matchups got a little aggressive sometimes, especially between Hopkins and his younger sister Ally, now a 14-year-old freshman at Fredericksburg Christian who

plays for FC Virginia.

“Maybe I sometimes grabbed her too much,” Hopkins concedes.

Even today, Hopkins will knock the ball against the side of the house. Or still head out to the street in front of the only home he’s known (he turns 19 in July). The only time he stops is to get out of the way of a passing car. Then he’s back at it again. One recent day, one of the Hopkins’ neighbors drove by and asked Jeff how his son was doing. The neighbor and her husband had lived in the neighborhood for 13 years and

smiled when talking about how often they’d see Hopkins outside practicing.

It was a common sight for sure. Jeff laughs when he thinks about all those moments working with his son. It was understood even after coming home from work, Jeff, upon request, would squeeze in a session outside.

“The running joke was there’s no sitting down,” Jeff said.

David Fawcett is sports editor of InsideNoVa and lives in Stafford. He can be reached at dfawcett@ insidenova.com.

Jackson Hopkins was joined by his mother, Laurie, and his father, Jeff, when he signed with D.C. United in April.

Slaying the Runway

Charity fashion show features breast cancer survivors

BY TRACY BELL

Nearly 10 years ago, Rachel Campbell received terrifying news.

The North Stafford resident was at her doctor’s office when she heard the words: “We found a lump that appears to be cancer.”

Time seemed to stop, she recalled. “Needless to say, I heard nothing after the word ‘cancer.’ I walked out in a daze and didn't even remember driving home or exactly what was said.”

Campbell, 57 at the time, recalls the specific date when she first thought there might be a problem – Wednesday, July 3, 2013. “My breast made a noise – like the gurgling of a water cooler. I heard it and slightly felt it throughout the day.”

She first dismissed the oddity, but it persisted.

The next day, Campbell went to her gynecologist. Although no noticeable problem was found, the doctor ordered a diagnostic mammogram for her the following day. Campbell said she still wasn’t especially concerned as she waited on the results.

Her diagnosis came quickly, and life changed in a matter of days.

But today, she’s a breast cancer survivor. And on Oct. 8, Campbell participated in the Pink Carpet Event, a charity fashion show at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington. There, she and other breast-cancer survivors walked the runway as models.

The event is the brainchild of Singleton Enterprises, an event-planning and hosting company based in Stafford.

It was the sixth annual Pink Carpet Event. Campbell has participated every year.

“It is not just important that I participate in this worthwhile event,” she said. “I am committed to do so to share with others life beyond the diagnosis. Each year my passion grows stronger and stronger as it marks another year of life and another opportunity to share and relate.”

About 15 models were recruited for this year’s show, and 150 people purchased tickets.

Ann Singleton, a North Stafford resident who runs Singleton Enterprises, said the Pink Carpet Event started as one of the company’s events but over the years evolved into its own nonprofit.

“I love watching our survivors slay the runway,” Singleton said. “Breast cancer is something that has impacted most people, and if you do not know someone with breast cancer, consider yourself blessed.”

Survivors who modeled in the show wore survivor sashes to differentiate themselves from a few of the models who

have not had breast cancer, Singleton said. Many of the models and behind-thescenes crew hail from the Fredericksburg area, including Stafford and Spotsylvania counties, while others are from the District of Columbia, Maryland, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Ohio and California.

The Pink Carpet Event is not only raising money, but also awareness and solidarity.

It empowers and encourages breastcancer survivors to share their journeys, inspiring, celebrating and educating through fashion, Singleton said. The first Pink Carpet Event paid homage to Singleton’s aunt, Johnnie Mae Simpson, who has since passed away, and other strong female warriors.

“I wanted to celebrate these women as I am so inspired by them,” Singleton said.

The money raised from the Pink Carpet Events have been donated alternately to the Mary Washington Hospital Foundation Breast Cancer Fund and the Sentara Northern Virginia Comprehensive Breast

Center. This year’s event benefited the Mary Washington fund.

Fox 5 News anchor Ayesha Khan, a breastcancer survivor turned awareness advocate, was also featured at the event. Khan, diagnosed in July 2021, wrote in a social media post about her first mammogram, which “turned my world upside down.”

The mammogram was also “what I believe saved my life,” she wrote.

Ean Willams, founder of D.C. Fashion

Rachel Campbell has participated in all six of the Pink Carpet Events.

Yamileth Saravia models at the Pink Carpet Event.

Week, hosted the Pink Carpet Event, which included raffles, a live performance, hors d’oeuvres, a DJ, dancing and artist Leroy Brown painting amid the show. The headline designer was Baltimore-based Carl Trogdon of Alek Risimnic Couture Design.

As for Campbell, she says she is “not just a survivor, but a thriver.”

“My faith, prayers, family, doctors, surgeon, radiologist, oncologist and favor of God brought me through,” she said, recalling her “unique and downright unbelievable” symptoms and experience being diagnosed.

After learning that she had breast cancer, Campbell had a lumpectomy just weeks later and then endured 33 daily radiation treatments. Soon after, she was declared cancer-free.

Campbell said she is excited each year to be a part of the fashion show, but it’s also a vehicle used to share the good, the bad and the ugly. It affords her the opportunity to bond with others, forge friendships and share experiences with other survivors.

“We are always supportive of one another, as the experience of breast cancer will certainly tenderize the heart,” she said.

Campbell said that although each experience and symptom varies – be they pain, anxiety, fatigue, social isolation, depression and insomnia, along with quality of life and financial challenges – the walk down the runway sends a message of hope, healing and survival.

“I enjoy the opportunity to slay the runway, not because I model so well, but simply because others see me – a fighter of breast cancer – living and thriving,”

Campbell said. “It is in the walk down the runway that I am hoping and trusting that I am reaching at least one person, providing hope and inspiration.”

Tracy Bell is a freelancer who lives in Stafford County.

For more information on the Pink Carpet Event, visit pinkcarpetevent.com or email info@pinkcarpetevent.com.

EXCLUSIVE CATEGORIES

Energy on the Job

Meet Randal Vosburg, Stafford’s new county administrator

BY TRACY BELL

Randal Vosburg moved from sunny Florida over the summer to become Stafford’s new county administrator – and he’s eager to make the most of his time and energy.

With a live, work and play hard – sleep later – perspective, Vosburg oversees Stafford’s departments and manages county government initiatives in partnership with the Stafford Board of Supervisors.

Vosburg, a Virginia native, took over the position held by interim Administrator Mike Smith in July after a national search. Smith stepped in

after Fred Presley, the previous county administrator, resigned in April after holding the position less than two years.

“Hiring a county administrator is one of the most important duties the board has to ensure that government services and strategic direction for the community continue to head in the right direction,” said Crystal Vanuch, chairman of the Board of Supervisors. “Randy holds a diverse repertoire of education, experience and accomplishments that aligned impeccably with the board's vision.”

Vosburg had served as county

administrator of Highlands County, Fla., since 2017. Before that, he was Highland’s assistant county administrator. He also worked for Florida’s Polk County Sheriff’s Office as director of strategic planning and director of professional compliance and as a land-use planner for Polk’s growth management department.

Vosburg holds a master’s degree in public administration from the University of South Florida and bachelor’s degrees in political science and history from Florida Southern College.

He said he is grateful for the opportunity to be of service to Stafford. “I am passionate about public service and making Stafford County a premier place to live and work. More importantly, I am excited about working with the Board of Supervisors and staff to fulfill the county's vision and meet the community's needs.”

Stafford Magazine asked Vosburg these get-to-know-you questions:

Welcome the holiday season with Stafford County’s 2nd annual Tree Lighting Festival held at the George Gordon Government Center on Friday, December 2, 2022. Community festivities begin at 6 PM with the Tree Lighting at 7:30 PM.

The magic of the evening will include free horse-drawn carriage rides, holiday musical performances, artisans and crafters, family-friendly activities, graham cracker house contest (pre-registration required), a beer and wine garden, food vendors and Santa. Bring your family and friends to celebrate an evening of festive holiday cheer.

Rain

Saturday, December 3

OVER TWO MONTHS INTO THE JOB, HOW HAVE YOU BEEN SETTLING IN AND WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST FOCUS?

RANDAL VOSBURG: Everyone welcomed my family and me, making settling so much easier. My most significant focus has been getting up to speed and meeting as many people as possible. I have been attending events in the community, talking to citizens, meeting members of Team Stafford, touring with each district supervisor and doing a lot of reading.

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP PRIORITIES OR GOALS AS COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR?

RV: My top priority as county administrator is customer service. We have a great team in place that is very communityoriented, and I want to ensure that Stafford County is a leader in providing services to our community. I also know that Stafford is facing several growth pressures, and I am dedicated to assisting our Board of Supervisors in managing growth in a sustainable and financially responsible manner.

WHAT FUN FACT ABOUT YOU WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO LEARN?

RV: Our family used to own a pizzamaking business. We bought it as a business that was about to close – saved six jobs –and turned the business around to have 10 employees when we sold it. All of this with no background in restaurants – crazy and fun at the same time.

WHAT DIFFERENCES DO YOU MOST NOTICE ABOUT VIRGINIA, COMING FROM FLORIDA? WHAT FAVORITE FLORIDA MEMORY OR UNUSUAL EXPERIENCE COMES TO MIND?

RV: The temperature outside is in the 50s, and back in Florida, it is 96 degrees with a looming hurricane. Kidding aside, many fundamentals of government are the same between Florida and Virginia – prioritizing citizens, ethical decisionmaking and taking care of our employees. There are also many differences, including dependence on the state for several items like road maintenance and regulatory permissions. It is also different not holding the contract with refuse haulers for trash collection. Another key difference is the

funding relationship between the Board of Supervisors and the School Board. I have several good memories from Florida, but the one that sticks out is how our community came together after Hurricane Irma. People forgot their differences and came together to help each other. I was most proud of our county employees who worked double duty – keeping the county running while also serving in different capacities for the county's recovery.

WHO CAME WITH YOU TO STAFFORD?

RV: Moving to Stafford with me was my husband, Nick, our youngest son, Trent, 9, my mom, Suzanne, and our senior dog, Saddie. Saddie has since passed, but she made the move with us and enjoyed the plush grass of Virginia. Our two oldest boys – David, 18, and Frankie, 20, are still in Florida working through college and vocational programs.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A DAY OFF?

RV: I am very family-oriented, so I love to spend most of my time with my family. I am

a big history buff, so we enjoy exploring the rich history around us in Virginia and D.C.

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST FEAR?

RV: My biggest fear is something happening to our youngest child. He has a condition called Hemophilia B. For the most part, he lives an everyday life, but not a day goes by that I don't worry about something happening related to his condition.

WHAT IS STAFFORD AHEAD OF THE GAME ON, AND WHAT CHALLENGES DOES IT

FACE?

RV: Stafford is ahead on integrating general government with our constitutional partners. Additionally, I would put our community engagement team up against any other jurisdiction. Despite our limited resources, we remain cuttingedge in services engaging the public. For example, the recent launch of our AskBlu online platform demonstrates ways to use technology to serve our customers quicker and more efficiently but also reduces resources in getting the requester to the subject matter expert faster. I believe our biggest challenge ahead is funding for infrastructure. We are experiencing tremendous growth that comes with strains on roads, schools, public safety and everything else.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITES (SPORTS TEAM, TRAVEL SPOT, FOOD, QUOTE/MOTTO)?

RV: I love college football – no matter the team – just such an exciting game. I do follow the Miami Hurricanes and the USF [University of South Florida] Bulls. I love most food – but have a fondness for Italian food. My favorite motto to tell the family is, “There is plenty of time to sleep when you are dead.” There is so much to do in life; let’s make the most of it. It makes people around me tired sometimes.

WHAT SHOULD THE PUBLIC KNOW ABOUT STAFFORD AND ITS SERVICES/PROGRAMS/ DEPARTMENTS?

RV: I want the public to know they should be proud of Team Stafford. We have some of the most knowledgeable and dedicated employees. We are faced with a lot of growth pressures and strains on infrastructure, but with appropriate resources, we can keep Stafford County as a place people desire to live, work and play.

Tracy Bell is a freelancer who lives in Stafford County.

It’s okay not to be okay. We’re here to help find a spark of light when things seem hopeless.

Hope is here.

STAFFORD COUNTY PHOTOS

Squirrel tales: Why they are friends, not foes

or chase Russian spies.

It's no secret that squirrels like acorns. However, they are also fond of almost every variety of nuts (they love peanuts), berries and even peanut butter, but when it comes to storing food for the winter, they prefer hard nuts like acorns. They last longer. Squirrels tend to eat the softer nuts first.

BY DAVID S. KERR

My favorite topic to write about and by far the subject that receives the most comment from readers has nothing to do with politics. It’s not about zoning, growth or schools. Rather, it concerns squirrels. If you’ve read this column, you know I like them. I don’t keep them as pets, but here on the farm, they are constant companions.

Of course, not everyone shares my affection for squirrels. My great Uncle Carl, a real country boy, considered them great targets as they ran through remnants of a freshly cut cornfield. I liked Uncle Carl a lot, but I wasn’t fond of his squirrel hunting.

In Northern Virginia the species we know is the North American Gray Squirrel (so are the black squirrels I mentioned a couple of months ago) and their genus is Sciurus Carolinensis. Are there any Latin students out there who could tell me how to pronounce that? They’re like Rocky the flying squirrel from the 1960s’ “Rocky and Bullwinkle” show –only our local squirrels don’t fly

Contrary to popular belief, squirrels don’t have a complex system for remembering where they buried their acorns. Or, if they do, they’re not telling. They just go digging in the cold months when they get hungry and hope to find some of their stash. Inevitably, a lot of acorns get forgotten, and that’s good, because squirrels, almost exclusively, are responsible for planting new oak trees.

Centuries ago, the British Royal Navy put a lot of stock in having a good supply of oak. In the age of wooden ships, hardwood like oak was the ideal ship-building material. During the 18th century, Britain’s top admiral carried acorns in his pocket and planted them whenever he toured the country. I am sure the acorn-planting admiral helped, but it’s not too much of a stretch to say that the English Red Squirrel (think of the squirrel in the Peter Rabbit stories) did his part to help Britannia rule the waves.

As you can see, there is a wide variety of squirrel species and subspecies. In Ohio, a species of red squirrel lives almost exclusively on the grounds of Kent State University. And on Virginia’s

Chincoteague Island, home to the famous ponies, there is a protected species known as the Delmarva Fox Squirrel. Various species of squirrels can be found all over the world.

In India, there is a national park and wildlife preserve for the Indian Giant Squirrel. This squirrel isn’t like the cute little fellows I know and love. They can grow to more than 2 feet long and weigh about 15 pounds – that’s bigger than my cat.

However, don’t worry: They’re friendly and are even a part of Hindu legend.

To some, but not me of course, squirrels are a nuisance and obnoxious pests. That’s a bit extreme in my view. They are almost never mean or in the slightest bit hostile. They are also unusually clever. This is demonstrated by the neverending stream of “squirrel defeating” bird feeders – few of which ever defeat the squirrels.

One advertisement I found had an answer, or so they claimed, to squirrels in the attic. Yes, that is a real problem.

It was a light ball that turned, like a disco ball, complete with tiny mirrors. According to the manufacturer, the lights would send the squirrels scurrying. Of course, who knows, squirrels may like the disco beat.

So, there you have it. My squirrel friends are exceptionally good at surviving, helped launch one of the world’s most powerful navies, and, yes, can be a nuisance, too. But, aside from that, and despite my beloved but trigger-happy Great Uncle Carl, they’re still my friends.

David Kerr is a Stafford resident and an adjunct professor of political science at VCU. He worked on Capitol Hill and for various federal agencies for many years.