Brookside and Old Town Neighbors - May 2023

Publishers: Michael and Debbie Wykowski

Content Coordinator: Aimée O’Grady

Designer: Terri Shelow

Contributing Photographer: Melinda Ratcliff, The Little Photo Shop

Welcome to the May issue of

Brookside and old Town

Neighbors!

OUR FAMILY is entering its 8th season as beekeepers. Each spring I eagerly await the blossoms on the cherry plum trees in front of our house. Once in bloom, the trees literally buzz. Guests will rush to our front door saying, “I can hear the bees but can’t see them.” Of course, the bees have no interest in our guests. They are busy buzzing in the flower blossoms, shaking off the pollen, before moving on to the next flower. We will sit near the apiary and watch the worker bees return to the hive with “saddlebags” yellow and bursting with pollen. (These saddlebags are technically called “pollen pellets” and they hang onto their hind legs.)

As beekeepers, we spend a fair amount of time thinking about our fuzzy, buzzy, sisters as we consider this year’s garden and lightly maintain our property leaving many areas of organic debris for our pollinators to nest in.

The Willises are also focused on nurturing. Justin and Crystal Willis nurture the athletic side of both their children and adults of all shapes and sizes. This fit couple is busy raising their three athletic children, while also running a gym, fighting fires, and serving the community. You can read about them on page 6.

Our Senior Student Journalist Intern, Natalie Voss, shares her words of wisdom with all high school students. She encourages them to slow down and appreciate these formative years. She warns that these four years will be gone before they know it.

We also visited with Kettle Run High School graduate April Franqueza. She nurtured a passion for pastries and today is at the height of her career as Executive Pastry Chef at High Hampton Inn and a contestant on The Food Network's Spring Baking Championship!

Finally, we would like to wish a wonderful Mother’s Day to every woman out there who cares for a child in some capacity. You bring special meaning to the word nurture!

We hope you enjoy this month’s magazine!

Aimée

EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS

© Best Version Media

INSURANCE

BOUTIQUE LUXURY NATURAL SKINCARE Be Well Company | Love + Be Well, By Natalie

Established in 2017, Be Well was created by MS warrior, mother, and clean living activist, Natalie. Be Well is an award-winning, 100% clean, non-toxic, luxury skincare line designed to feed your skin and make it healthy and glowing at any age. Be Well creates hyper-fresh, small-batch superfood skincare in its Warrenton, Virginia studio. Husband and wife team Natalie and Mitch are serial entrepreneurs, leaders, and speakers in the health and wellness space for the last 12+ years. www.bewellcompany.com | FB + IG @loveandbewellskincare

REAL ESTATE

Team Larson Realty | Laura Larson

Laura has been practicing real estate full-time for over 14 years. She started her career as a graduate from the U of MD with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting but later realized her passion for working with people and real estate. She has grown her business considerably and now is the Broker and Owner of Team Larson Realty (TLR), a boutique brokerage delivering white glove service. She has an amazing team to ensure her clients are extremely well cared for and become happy life-long members of the TLR family. She also has a passion for giving back to the community in many ways: financial, personal, and social. Currently, she is on a mission to donate $25,000 to INOVA Children’s Hospital. She does this by making a donation on every transaction or referral on behalf of her clients. Laura has also been involved with Habitat for Humanity in Fauquier and House of Mercy in Manassas. She also offers the exclusive “Your Home Sold Guaranteed Program!” Call for details. 703-589-7762 northernvirginiahomesguide.com | laura@teamlarsonrealty.com

EYE CARE

Dr. Shannon Moore and Associates

Dr. Shannon Moore, Optometrist

This practice has been providing expert eyecare to Warrenton and the surrounding communities since 1979. Dr. Shannon Moore joined the practice in 2005 and Dr. Lisa Butterfield in 2015. Having vast knowledge of ocular disease, surgical eyecare and optics, the doctors can diagnose, manage and treat a variety of ocular diseases as well as provide patients with the most accurate prescriptions for their glasses and/or contacts. They also co-manage with several leading ophthalmologists to ensure that any ocular condition they find can be managed and treated by the appropriate doctors. The practice has been voted "Best of Warrenton" and "Best of Fauquier" a total of seven times since 2007. 540-347-0555 | www.warrentoneyes.com

CABINET PAINTING

Heather’s Painted Treasures | Heather Workman

Heather Workman is the owner and operator of Heather’s Painted Treasures. Her team specializes in taking tired and dated cabinetry and giving them “new life.” They have a unique style of prep, cleaning, priming, and painting your cabinet doors and drawer fronts in their temperature controlled, ventilated, and dust free paint booth. This results in amazing cabinets that are as close to “factory new” without the factory! 703-655-7852 www.heatherspaintedtreasures.com

SALON/HAIR

Fashion Forward Salon | Corey Curran

State Farm Insurance | Glenn Albert

State Farm Insurance has been a fixture in Warrenton and the surrounding areas since the Agency opened in August of 1999. Glenn is an expert in risk management and he and his team excel in providing personalized, friendly service to help customers manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams. Glenn’s office is a full service Insurance and Financial Services Agency. Glenn and his wife Sandi (Bausman) are residents of Brookside, are active in the local community, and are happy to be a resource for the neighborhood. 540-347-3339 | www.glennalbert.com | www.facebook.com/ glennalbertsf | glenn.albert.le0c@statefarm.com

ORTHODONTICS

TEEM Orthodontics | Dr. Madueke Ekoh

Dr. Ekoh's journey started in Nigeria, obtaining his Pre-Bachelors in Dental Surgery before emigrating to the U.S. He received his Doctorate in Dental Surgery and Orthodontist certificate at Howard University. To keep up with the advances in orthodontic care, Dr. Ekoh regularly attends numerous seminars, and is an active member in several professional associations, including the American Association of Orthodontists. He lives in Haymarket with his wife and four children. “My vision is to make advanced, high quality and cutting-edge orthodontic care available and affordable to everyone. I believe that great orthodontic care should not only improve the smile, but help people experience the joy of living better." 703-753-4777 | teemortho.com

FLOORING AND CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENT

Early’s Carpet, Inc.| Sonja Betts, Lorraine Early, Solon Betts

Early’s Carpet, Inc., your hometown store with so much under one roof, is currently celebrating 54 years in the flooring and window treatment business. Early’s is a family operated business – Lorraine, co-founder since 1966, daughter Sonja Betts is Store Manager, Decorator, Window Treatment Specialist, and son-in-law Solon Betts is a Ceramic Craftsman and heads up all installation crews. The store is known for its’ “In-Stock” floor coverings availability. Do not let the name fool you – they are EXPERTS in all floor coverings, hardwood, laminate, ceramic, vinyl, and carpeting. We are also pleased to be a Centurion Dealer for Hunter Douglas custom window treatments. Drive a little, save a lot! 540-937-5500 | www.earlyscarpet.com

TECHNOLOGY / TECH SERVICES

HTDNET | Matt Demaree

Matt Demaree is the owner of HTDNET, a local technology solutions company serving the area since 1994. We are your hometown experts for IT Solutions for your home or business. Matt has experience serving in several IT sectors such as telecommunications, cyber security, internet service providers, healthcare, and more. He is also a US Army veteran and local volunteer firefighter here in Fauquier. Please feel free to visit our website and become familiar with our services and check out our Google reviews. 540-905-8111 | www.htd.net | mdemaree@htd.net | linkedin.com/in/ matthewdemaree

HEARING / AUDIOLOGY

Hearing Assessment Center | Nikki Butler, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology

Corey is the owner of Fashion Forward Salon in Gainesville, VA. She began her career in the beauty industry in 2000 and has spent the last 21 years growing as a stylist and a leader. She started educating with Bumble and Bumble and fell in love with the education side of the industry. After 11 years in the industry, she decided to branch out on her own, and in August 2011, Fashion Forward Salon was born. She travels to New York several times a year to keep all of her skills up to date. Her goal is to make sure to always grow as a stylist and owner. With help from her devoted staff, Fashion Forward Salon strives to make every client have the best experience possible!

571-248-2924 | corey@fashionforwardsalon.com

Dr. Nicolette “Nikki” Butler received her doctorate at East Tennessee State University. She has done extensive research in the area of auditory Working Memory (how the brain stores input from the ears). She is certified by the American Board of Audiology, a distinction held by only 15% of audiologists. She is also one of the select few doctors who holds a certificate in Tinnitus Management. People who suffer from tinnitus actively seek out Dr. Nikki’s care, some coming from several hours away. Dr. Nikki is dedicated to helping those who suffer from hearing loss and tinnitus, educating every single patient and treating those individuals with the highest level of care. When she is not serving her community, Dr. Nikki enjoys cooking, drinking copious amounts of coffee and exploring Virginia with her husband and two dogs. 540-495-8601 | www.hearingassessment.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/HearingAssessmentCenter

CHIROPRACTIC SERVICES

Advantage Chiropractic & Massage Therapy

Dr. Douglas B. Smith Jr.

Dr. Douglas B. Smith Jr. earned his undergraduate degree from the State University of New York and his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Life University in Atlanta, Georgia. While at Life University, Dr. Smith also received certification in Physical Therapy. Dr. Smith will be celebrating his 23rd year of practice in October of 2021. Dr. Smith is highly regarded in Fauquier County as being the “go to” doctor for injuries, headaches and wellness in general. The community shows their confidence in Dr. Doug by having voted him “Best Chiropractor” every year since 2006. 540-349-8989 | www.advantagehealthchiropractic.com

FAMILY DENTISTRY

Robert C. Flikeid, DDS and Associates

Dr. Flikeid has been practicing dentistry in Warrenton, VA for over 20 years. After graduating from Virginia Tech, he received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Virginia Commonwealth University. Dr. Flikeid is licensed to practice all aspects of dentistry in Virginia. He has been the dental director at the Fauquier Free Clinic for more than 10 years and Director of the American Equilibration Society for over seven years. He enjoys giving back to his community as well as serving abroad on dental mission trips. Dr. Flikeid lives in Warrenton with his wife and two children. 540-347-3396 www.warrentonfamilydentistry.com

FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Edward Jones | Jessica M. Ashby CFP®

When it comes to your financial future, it's important to work with someone who takes time to understand you and your situation. Jessica’s team takes a step-by-step approach to identify your goals and develop specific strategies to help you achieve them. Contact them today to see how personal service can make a difference. 540-428-2889 | jessica.m.ashby@edwardjones.com

TAX PREPARATION

Marshall Consulting Group, LLC | Douglas M. Marshall, III CPA

As a leader in the accounting industry, Doug is committed to providing close, personal attention to his clients. He takes pride in giving you the assurance that the personal assistance you receive comes from years of advanced training, technical experience, and financial acumen. “We believe in the value of relationships. We view every client relationship like a partnership, and truly believe that our success is a result of your success!” 540-347-2161 | www. mcgllccpa.com

HEATING /

AIR CONDITIONING

Mullins Heating and Air | Scott Mullins

Mullins Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC specializes in a wide range of heating and air conditioning services in the Sumerduck & Warrenton, VA area. Whether you need a multi-zone HVAC system installed in your new home or an outdated, inefficient mini-split AC system replaced, their HVAC contractor can make it happen. “We install ductwork and a wide variety of top-of-the-line HVAC systems to help keep customers comfortable at all times." 703-362-3883 | mullinshvac.com

mullins4ac@gmail.com

PLUMBING

Vern’s Plumbing

Vern's Plumbing is fully licensed, bonded, and insured with over 30 years of experience in the plumbing industry. Every team member brings years of experience to every job. We take pride in being the plumber of choice for many of our clients. We've been serving this part of Virginia since 1988. As a family-owned and operated business, our customers are our top priority. That's why we put 100% into every call we take and every service we provide. We offer a full range of plumbing services to both residential and commercial customers. Vern’s Plumbing is a Class A contractor with masters in Plumbing and Gas Fitter. 540-205-8843 | vernsplumbing.com | admin@vernsplumbing.com

HOME CARE

EverNest Home Care | Chris Gay

Chris Gay is the owner of EverNest Home Care, a licensed home-care provider located in Warrenton and serving clients throughout the Northern Virginia area. From personal care services to companionship services and beyond, EverNest’s home care offerings are tailored to suit each of their client’s lifestyles and needs wherever they call “home.” Through their extremely selective recruitment process, they’ve taken the care necessary to curate the best team of nurturing, attentive professionals. 571-483-8806 www.evernestcare.com

The Willises

Coaching from Home to Homeplate

By Aimée O'Grady | Photography by The Little Photo Shop

CRYSTAL AND JUSTIN WILLIS know that to be good at something you need to train for it. Sitting on the sidelines and expecting to outperform others when stepping into play isn’t realistic. The couple eats, breathes, and lives the verb: train.

Crystal has been training her entire life for her current role as owner and coach at CrossFit Warrenton. She earned a degree in Exercise Science from the University of Cincinnati before accepting an internship at Explosive Performance at Worldgate Sport & Health in Chantilly, Virginia. “I was the only one to leave home. My three brothers and parents all still live within an hour of one another,” she said. Those three brothers gave her exactly the experiences she needed to step into the role of coach as a young woman in her early 20s, not much older than the high school and collegiate athletes she was training. She has since mastered the art of showing athletes who’s in charge.

The Director of Training at her internship happened to be Justin, who originates from Pittsburgh, the only boy in a family with two sisters. Also a long-time athlete, Justin walked onto the West Virginia University football field in 1999, having never played before because of his mother’s -- an M.D. -- safety concerns. While Justin didn’t graduate from WVU, he did earn his degree in engineering from Old Dominion University in 2022. Demonstrating again, that, no matter the timeframe,

hard work pays off.

It didn’t take long for the two to realize just how much they had in common. They married at 25 and just celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary in April. They spent the day cheering on their middle child, Preston, as he played in his second baseball game of the season for the Auburn Wildcats, their eldest child, Caleb, who had a doubleheader JV game at Kettle Run, and Olivia who had practice. The couple is in the thick of raising and coaching their three ball-loving kids.

An avid baseball fan, Justin has taken his role as a baseball coach to impressive levels. “He is training the kids to watch the ball as it leaves the pitcher’s hand to see how it is spinning to determine if they want to swing or not,” said Crystal. In many cases, these balls come at over 70 miles per hour and the batter has only split seconds to make this determination. His coaching is well-rounded and very thorough.

After leaving Explosive Performance, the couple looked at their 1,000-square-foot garage at their Amissville home with new eyes. “Crystal was pregnant with our oldest son, Caleb, and we didn’t have the time we used to for long workouts. While looking up new workout routines, a workout named, Nasty Girls, caught my eye. It was a 10-minute workout that left athletes exhausted. I tried it and it smoked me. After a little more research, I found

CrossFit, a workout program that includes cardio and weights in short bursts of time, usually less than 20 minutes,” said Justin.

The couple got certified, opened an affiliate CrossFit gym in their garage, and began promotions. “We had a booth at the Fauquier School Fair where a few people signed up. Most of the people who joined the gym with us in Amissville are still with us,” said Justin. “It was always Justin’s dream to open a gym,” added Crystal.

“After two years in the garage, we moved the gym to a shop next to Harris Teeter in Warrenton in 2011. Soon after that, we outgrew that space and moved to one bay in our current location in 2013. One bay became two bays, and finally all three,” said Crystal.

The couple is in the process of building a brand-new gym off North Hill Drive near Harris Teeter.

Early on in their gym ownership, Justin found a new calling thanks to the encouragement from some gym members. “We had firemen who would come, and they suggested I consider joining them.

The more I thought about it, the more I wanted to and in 2012, I began recruit school,” said Justin. He has been a fireman in Fairfax Country for over a decade.

With Justin redirecting his primary focus to being a fireman, Crystal has taken on greater responsibility at the gym and maintains a busy schedule of offering personal training for senior citizens – something that permanently transitioned to virtual after the COVID pandemic saving her precious time commuting.

CrossFit War has also collaborated with The Bariatric and Weight Loss Center at Piedmont Family Practice offering a class specifically for the Center’s patients. They have also recently added youth programs: Tiny Tots, Tater Tots, and Later Taters classes each Saturday to introduce kids 15 years and under to the CrossFit experience. Without extended family in the area, the couple had to figure it all out on their own with their three kids --Caleb, born in 2008, Preston in 2011, and Olivia in 2014. “We needed to find people we could trust to help with the kids when Crystal was in the gym or training people and I was in Fairfax,” said Justin. Over the years, as their involvement in their kids’ activities grew, mainly in sports, the couple turned to other parents, who had become friends, to help shuttle their children to different activities.

“The gym members have become our family,” she said. “I know that if I need something, I can ask any member and they will help me.” Justin specifically expresses his

gratitude to Kelly & Billy Smith and Lauren & Bob Vnuk for all the help they have offered over the years.

Today, the gym has about 130 regular members. “I want to know each member well enough to recognize, the second they walk through the door, how I will have to modify the workout for them. I know everyone’s orthopedic issues and limitations – and that’s very important to me. When I see my athletes, regularly, multiple times a week, I get to know them on a much more personal level too. If someone doesn’t show up, I will check on them,” she said. “Each member has my cell phone number and I want it to stay that way. Growing is great so long as they aren’t just a number.”

With Justin’s schedule of long shifts, it isn’t easy for the couple to take time off to get away. “We wrap our vacations around the kids’ baseball and softball travel schedules,” said Crystal. This schedule has taken them to Pigeon Forge, TN, Atlanta, GA, Myrtle Beach, SC, and north to New Jersey. In the winter months, Justin works ski patrol at Snowshoe Mountain. While Justin and the kids enjoy the slopes, Crystal, who abhors the cold, waits for them from the comfort of the lodge or their rental home.

The Willis’s plates are certainly full these days. In the rare moments that they aren’t fighting fires, helping people improve their health, or watching a ball game, they are content at home alone recharging for the next day’s activities.

Don’t Rush High School

By Natalie Voss

I WALKED INTO AUBURN MIDDLE

SCHOOL the other day and caught myself smiling as I looked around. Most of the teachers that were there while I was attending had moved on to different things, yet there were still some familiar faces. I hadn’t stepped inside Auburn Middle School for four years, but all the memories came rushing back like it was yesterday. I remember being in middle school all over again, how I couldn’t wait to go to high school and get my license, but now I miss middle school. In middle school, I didn’t have to worry about my SAT scores and what college I wanted to attend. Life was easy. It’s all different now. I’m about to graduate and high school flew by. It’s hard to believe I spent four years at Kettle Run. I knew my freshman year I was going to make the most of high school. I was going to go to all the football games, dances, and pep rallies. I wanted to have the full high school experience. I went to parties that aren’t as fun as they make them look in the movies. I dealt with mean girls, boys, and tricky classes, but it all wasn’t as world-ending as I thought it was at the time. I know I’m going to miss high school and all the memories I made within the walls of Kettle Run. I’m going to miss my favorite teachers, who were always there for me when I needed them. I’ll miss roaming the halls when I’m supposed to be in class and stressing about whom I’m going to sit with at lunch. I’ll especially

miss getting ready for football games and standing in the cage cheering whether we’re winning or losing. Although I graduate in just a few weeks, I’m beginning to feel nostalgic walking through the halls of Kettle Run High School. You can’t wait to leave high school and officially become an adult, but as soon as you leave, you wish you could go back. It’s hard to remember to live in the moment when you’re in it, but if you’re constantly moving towards the next best thing, you’ll miss what’s right in front of you. I had the perfect high school experience, full of drama, fun, and homework, and I honestly wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. All I can say is to take everything that happens in high school with a grain of salt because it doesn’t matter the last couple months of your senior year, and don’t rush high school. High School really is some of the best years of your life where you’re free to make mistakes and figure out who you are before you step out into the world on your own, so try not to grow up too fast.

Being a part of the Brookside and Old Town Neighbors magazine was an amazing experience, and this is my last article before I leave for college. I’m going to miss writing every month, telling my stories, and sharing all my tips with you. If you’re looking for some experience in writing and a chance to get creative, this might be the perfect opportunity for you.

graduates a terrific last few weeks of high school! May the road you follow take you precisely where you want to be! And when you arrive at your destination, reach out to us and let us know about it. We would love to hear from you!

Brookside and Old Town Neighbors wishes Natalie and all Kettle Run and Fauquier High School

By Sarah Cowley, Fashion Forward

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If you want to rejuvenate your skin and achieve a healthy, glowing complexion this summer, Sciton BBL Hero can offer various treatment options to address specific skin concerns and deliver benefits such as collagen stimulation, improved skin texture, and tone. Just remember to take precautions before and after your treatment to reduce the risk of skin damage and achieve the best results.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

Kettle Run High School Graduate Profile of April Franqueza

By Aimée O'Grady

APRIL FRANQUEZA'S PATH

following high school was a sweet journey that took her thousands of miles from home and back before settling in an adjacent state.

April Franqueza was in the inaugural Kettle Run High School graduating class. “When I got to high school, I was reunited with friends from Auburn Middle School, so it was an exciting time,” she said. During her school days, April pursued Girl Scouts, the marching band (she played percussion), swim team, and worked at Effee’s Frozen Favorites ice cream shop for four years.

After her graduation, her hectic pace slowed with a gap year. “My father lost his battle with cancer, and I didn’t want to leave my younger brother, then only 14, so I took a year

Magic: The Gathering, Dungeons & Dragons, Pokémon, Warhammer, Board Games & more

off,” she said.

After her break and at the encouragement of her father before his passing, she attended the Culinary Institute of America in New York where she earned a BA in Hospitality Management, Baking, and Pastry Making. The Institute also required an internship prior to admittance, which she satisfied during the gap year.

April has been living the sweet life ever since.

She lived in Nice, France studying pastry making, and traveled to Spain to study and taste its divine cuisine. “While I was abroad, I studied wines and cheeses and even olive oil producers,” she said. Leaving Europe wasn’t easy, and while she wanted to stay, she returned home to finish her bachelor’s degree and to her boyfriend, now husband, Scott. After graduation, the couple moved to the Upper East Side in New York City where they lived for two and a half years. “I look back on it as such a time of adventure and hard work. It was truly a grind, but the experiences I had there were invaluable to the beginning of my career. The few times that Scott and I have been able to return to NYC give me such a sense of nostalgia and fills me with memories,” she said.

They then accepted work at Blackberry Farm near Knoxville, TN.

“We worked at Blackberry Farm for three and a half years before moving to Blackberry Mountain [also owned by Blackberry Farm]. We worked at the Mountain for one and a half years, and then came to High

Hampton, also owned by Blackberry Farm,” she said.

High Hampton Inn is a 100-year-old estate that had fallen into disarray. They were tasked with making the food stand out. As the executive chef and executive pastry chef, the couple designs menus, sources ingredients, and manages a team of 20 other chefs to create savory and sweet treats. It was a daunting endeavor to step into. “Of course, I hoped I could make desserts memorable, but things didn’t really fall into place until I decided to put a daily slice of cake on the menu. Those were a huge hit right off the bat and gave me a strong sense of being in the right place at the right time in my career. I think those few cakes in the beginning really opened some doors, as a few of the cakes have been mentioned in magazines such as Garden & Gun, as well as Southern Living,” she said. The yearning for the fast pace of the city occasionally calls them. They

| Photos Courtesy of April Franqueza

this fast-paced digital world, slow down and play a game with friends

April, Scott and their French Bull Dogs, Pepper and Ozzy

have been able to answer this call twice to bake on the Today Show and promote High Hampton Inn.

April, now 30, is living her dream job. “I write dessert menus with four options each night, with menus rotating both daily and seasonally. Here is where I get to be creative with ingredients,” she said.

When the couple isn’t creating culinary delicacies, they enjoy everything North Carolina's mountains have to offer, namely kayaking, hiking, and fishing, bringing their two Boston Terriers along with them.

For their personal dinner menu, they enjoy preparing a beef or venison Wellington with Palmiers – a classic French cookie also called elephant ears -- paired with a nice bottle of wine.

Looking back at her time at Kettle Run High School, April appreciated the guidance of the then-band director, Matt Yonkey, and math teacher, Kurt Mergen. “They had high

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standards and expectations and never settled. We were always encouraged to be our best,” she said. April applied this to everything she has pursued and now is a participant in The Food Network’s reality show, Spring Baking Championship.

For this year’s graduates, April encourages them to take the time to get to know themselves and pursue their dreams. “Know that it takes a lot of hard work to get what you want- we’re in a time period where everything can come to you almost instantly, but once you’re out into college and then into the workforce, remember that passion, a strong work ethic, and speaking up for yourself get you everywhere,” she said.

Do you know, or are you, a Fauquier or Kettle Run High School graduate with an interesting story to tell? We want to hear it! Please contact Brookside and Old Town Neighbors at aogrady@bestversionmedia. com to schedule an interview for an upcoming issue.

With her father, Robin Heckathorn, at her KRHS graduation

Why Chiropractic Care is Important for Children

Written by Dr. Jennifer Ely, Advantage Chiropractic & Massage therapy, Owner Dr. Douglas B. Smith, Jr.

AS PARENTS, we make sure our kids are taken care of and healthy at all times; or at least that’s our goal. Regular doctor visits are a no-brainer to check proper development and to keep them healthy, but there are so many benefits of seeing a pediatric chiropractor that many parents overlook.

While small stumbles may not seem to cause extensive discomfort, they can cause shifts in the child’s musculoskeletal system that set the stage for subluxations. Misalignments caused in the spinal nerves can interfere with the efficient functioning of the child’s nervous system. Moreover, misalignments can potentially harm the body’s ability to function in an optimal manner, potentially leading to ear infections, headaches, asthma, and much more. Pediatric chiropractic care is essential to correct these misalignments, which in turn improves a child’s wellness and helps to prevent future problems.

Just like any good habit or wellness journey, it’s all about building those habits at an early age. Kids learn at an early age what good posture is, and it’s a healthy habit that will do wonders for them in the long run.

4 Pediatric Chiropractic Benefits Immune System Support

Just as a chiropractic adjustment boosts the immune system in adults (up to 200% by the way!), pediatric chiropractic visits can boost the immune system in your children. Pediatric chiropractic can result in kids being sick for shorter periods of time or getting sick less often. Did you know pediatric chiropractic care can help with stomach and digestive issues? If you are leery about giving your baby medicine at such an early age, pediatric chiropractic care is a natural and effective way

to help with constipation and other digestive issues like reflux, vomiting, diarrhea, and more. Experienced pediatric chiropractors can gently but effectively adjust your newborn, which can help relieve the pressure that your baby may be experiencing from shifted or pinched nerves.

Better Sleep

If you suffer from back pain, you already know it can affect your sleep, and the same holds true for your children. While your child may not be out lifting weights like you, he or she is still adjusting to life both physically and mentally. Tight muscles are a big deal that will keep them awake at night.

Here is something crazy to think about: Did you know spinal misalignments can be the cause of your child’s bedwetting? A spinal misalignment doesn’t allow the body to function as it should, so chiropractic adjustments may be necessary for your child. Pediatric chiropractors can focus on and adjust the vertebrae that affect the nerves to the bladder, which can improve the function of the central nervous system and reduce the subluxations that hinder proper communication and function. People are shocked to hear how many things a spinal misalignment can affect in your body’s daily routine, and the same is true for treating kids with chiropractic care.

More Focused, Improved Behavior, Improved Brain Development

In simple terms, chiropractic care can relieve stress on your body, allowing you to focus better. If a child isn’t in pain or suffering from insomnia, they are able to pay more attention in class. Keeping your child’s spine free of restrictions and impingements means there are no nerve interferences in the spine that will prevent the brain’s ability to perform. This is just one of the many pediatric chiropractor benefits that will make your child feel and act better.

Pediatric Chiropractor Visits Can Benefit Infants In Early Development Stages

As we mentioned above, pediatric chiropractors can help your baby’s digestive system in a ton of ways, but also think about how fragile a baby’s spine can be. While a misalignment isn’t cause for major concern, it can easily happen unintentionally with a small touch or while burping your baby. Pediatric chiropractic care is an easy and effective way to realign your baby’s spine to help him or her sleep better, eat better, grow, and develop on track.

Did you know natural birth can also affect the baby’s neck and spine? While it will often correct itself, it’s always a good idea to get a pediatric chiropractor to check out your baby to make sure he or she is growing and comfortable.

If you have questions on how your child can benefit from regular chiropractic care, give Advantage Chiropractic and Massage Therapy a call today at 540-349-8989.

By Natalie S.

Graceful Aging Blue Yogurt Bowl

THIS DELICIOUS BLUE YOGURT BOWL is loaded with health benefits! Spirulina is what gives this beautiful blue hue to the yogurt. This antioxidant-rich, anti-inflammatory algae fights free radicals, encourages cellular turnover, tones the skin, and gives you a more radiant glow. Yes, please!

You can top this bowl any way you wish. We chose mango, strawberries, homemade nut granola, and bee pollen here.

Bee Pollen contains all 22 amino acids and is an excellent skin moisturizer that stimulates the growth of new skin cells, making it great for graceful aging as well.

Toppings matter, so choose organic fruits and add in lots of berries as they are antioxidant-rich and full of vitamins that can help mitigate sun damage, amp up collagen production, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

Be careful when choosing granolas, many are loaded with sugars that will actually age your skin! We buy from a local health shop or make our own loaded with nuts and seeds which are the perfect glow foods.

How to make the Graceful Aging

Blue Yogurt Bowl:

INGREDIENTS

+2 cups vanilla organic Greek yogurt or nut yogurt (if you have plain just mix in a splash of vanilla and maple syrup to taste)

+1 tsp spirulina

+Mango

+Strawberry

+Blueberry

+Granola

+Bee Pollen

Simply mix the spirulina into the yogurt and dish it into two bowls. Top with fruit, granola, and bee pollen.

ENJOY! Love + Eat Well, Natalie

SPF Thoughts + Healthy Suggestions

By Natalie S., Be Well Company

There are two types of sunscreens: chemical and mineral. Zinc Oxide falls under the “mineral” category. The other active ingredient used in mineral sunscreens is Titanium Dioxide. These two ingredients are currently the only two active ingredients (for both chemical and mineral sunscreens) that are “proposed to be safe and effective for sunscreen use” according to the FDA.

protecting your skin from the sun’s damaging rays.

What to look for: Mineral-based sunscreen that is non-nano simply means the zinc particles are too large to pass through the skin into the body. This means it won't absorb into your skin, it won't harm the oceans, and it provides excellent UVA and UVB protection.

SPF IS A BIG DEAL, in every way. It can be wonderfully protective or terribly toxic to you and our planet, so let's break down what you should look for.

First off, Be Well does not make a dedicated SPF as of today, but we are here to guide you in what your healthy choices are.

1. Choose mineral-based products like zinc

2. Choose non-nano

3. Read the rest of the ingredient list

4. Check if it's reef/ocean safe Ok, so let's break this down a wee bit more...

Why is mineral sunscreen safer than chemical sunscreen? The active ingredients in chemical sunscreen can damage your body as they actually penetrate and soak into your skin. Plus, they can be harmful to the ocean and its beautiful sea creatures.

The Bad: Oxybenzone is one of the most common active ingredients in chemical sunscreens. Avoid it! It is a hormone disruptor and is damaging to coral reefs when it’s washed into the ocean.

The Good: Zinc Oxide is a mineral, and it’s one of the main active ingredients in many mineral-based sunscreens. An active ingredient in sunscreen is the ingredient that actually does the work of

How does it work: Zinc Oxide sits on top of your skin (rather than soaking in, as chemical sunscreens do) and protects you by scattering, absorbing, and reflecting the sun’s rays.

We personally use and recommend Badger Sunscreen. The ingredients list is stellar and all recognizable ingredients we feel safe feeding our skin. Mitch likes the kid 30 SPF that's scented orange...because he's basically a big kid.

Lastly, we also believe in letting our skin soak up the vital vitamin D from the sun for 15-20 minutes daily. Morning or evening are the best times to do this. APPLY your SPF last in your skincare routine.

Love + Be Well,

Boutique Luxury Skincare

From a debilitating MS diagnosis to creating hyper fresh clean skincare

Our founder Natalie, the Skincare Chef, has been successfully reversing her diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis since being carried into the hospital by her husband, Mitch, unable to walk or talk in 2014. Natalie began studying the power of superfoods and probiotics for the body. Radically changing her life, she immediately adopted a clean eating + clean living lifestyle. Today Natalie has fully regained her health and has made it her mission to share the importance of REAL food and CLEAN skincare.

bewellcompany.com

"Being natural is the closest I can get to being my true self"

Best Version Media

HOPE Theatre presents

Beauty and the BEAST

THERE’S A NEW COMMUNITY THEATER in town! For over fifteen years, Hope Theater has been producing week-long drama camps for high school and college students, staging full Broadway musicals in just one week’s time, and receiving rave reviews from enthusiastic, soldout audiences. This camp is highly anticipated by many in our community. Delighted patrons are often heard leaving the performances saying, “They did all that in just a week?” With decades of experience both on stage and behind the stage, Hope Theater’s production team knows how to create entertaining, professional-quality shows. Now, in addition to its successful Summer Drama Camps, Hope Theater has begun staging productions with adult actors and musicians. Their inaugural production was last Spring’s smash, GODSPELL. Earning rave critical reviews, overwhelmingly positive audience responses, enthusiastic standing ovations after every performance, and eight nominations from Broadway World’s Regional Awards, Hope Theater successfully put its name on the area community theater map.

Building on that momentum, Hope Theater now brings the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast to life, with a new vision. For nearly 300 years, the tale of "Beauty and the Beast" has captured the imaginations of people around the world. In 1991, Disney© produced their own take on this "tale as old as time" in their 30th animated feature. And, in 1994, they brought that animated story to the Broadway stage, where it enjoyed amazing success over its 13-year run. The Broadway production of Disney©'s version of the story sought to capture the visuals of the animated classic.

The original tale, however, offers a darker aesthetic drawn from its 18th-century setting and a time of wealthy oppression, masquerades, and with a gothic flare to the story.

This June, Hope Theater is excited to share its rendition of "Beauty and the Beast" with all the favorite songs and characters the world has come to love. The Hope Theatre interpretation draws from the rich romance and dark environment of the original tale as we stage this remarkable fable for the whole family, with a fresh vision you’ve likely not seen before.

Article and Photo By Hilary Pierce

Best Version Media

The same team that brought GODSPELL to the Hope Theater stage returns to bring Disney©'s Beauty and the Beast to life: visionary story-painter Scott Heine as director, Margo Heine as music director, Josie Corrado as choreographer, and Scott and Hilary Pierce as producers.

The cast is full of well-regarded, incredibly talented actors from all over Northern Virginia: Rebekah Raze as Belle, Billy Valentine as Beast, Spencer Pilcher as Gaston, Josh Carias as Lefou, Rich Pinson as Maurice, Katy Benko-Miner as Mrs. Potts, Bill Barnes as Lumiere, Andrew Harasty as Cogsworth, and an amazing ensemble of performers that truly bring these characters to life.

Hope Theater provides a state-of-the-art comfortable setting for audiences to relax and enjoy a break from the outside world. There will be nine performances of Disney©'s Beauty and the Beast at Hope Theater, 4175 Bludau Drive, Warrenton (Vint Hill).

June 2 through June 18, 2023. Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm. Sundays at 2pm.

Tickets are $24 for adults, $21 for military or seniors, and $18 for youth 17 and under. Tickets and further information are available at https://hope.theater or at the door until sold-out.

By Mandy Holmes

Kettle Run Spring Sports Roundup

THE SPRING SPORTS SEASON is nearly over. The spring season includes soccer, lacrosse, tennis, softball, baseball, and outdoor track. As of mid-April, all the Kettle Run teams were looking good and ready for some competitive play. Following their big season last year, including being regional finalists and playing in the state tournament, the girls' lacrosse team started off hot. They rolled past Brentsville, Loudoun Valley, Gainesville, Eastern View, and Forest Park, only falling to Lightridge in a non-conference game. The team is ready to make a long playoff run as they did last year. On the flip side, the boys' lacrosse team is ready for a redemption season. After going 4 -10 last year in a highly competitive district, they're looking to be a threat. The team has started out 2-2 in non-conference games. This was a better start than last year, and things are looking up for the coming season.

Baseball is off to a great start, with the team winning 2 of its 4 conference games. Their toughest loss came to the 2022 district finalist, James Wood, with a score of just 0-1. They have a veteran lineup ready to make a highly competitive playoff run this season. Softball is at 6-2 overall, but only 2-2 in conference play. Despite the slow start, the team is ready to heat up. Led by three senior college commits, they’re looking for a redemption run from last year.

Girls' soccer has a rebuilt lineup after losing 11 seniors from last year. Despite this, the team is coming together well. With a roster that is a majority of underclassmen, they sit at 2-2 in conference play. They’re looking to go even further than they did in their district-run last year.

There are high hopes for boys' soccer this season with a team led by senior captains, Andrew Curry and Chris Childers. They won their opening game against the 2022 district runner-up, James Wood, 3-0. This points toward a good season and a playoff run, despite their current record of 1-1-1.

Both boys' and girls' tennis teams were off to a slow start, but shouldn't be counted out for the rest of the season! Track and field athletes are hoping to qualify for states and nationals again this season. A few runners and field eventers have already qualified for states. In one meet, the boys' 800 sprint medley relay team broke the school record. They’re “on track” for a good season!

Overall, Kettle Run’s spring sports teams are looking sharp. This should be a competitive season for all the teams and it will be interesting to see how the season ends.

Let’s go Cougars!

Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent's ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.

Coffee & Conversation

7179 New Hope Lane, Warrenton, VA 20187. Thursdays from 10 a.m. to noon, Spiritual Care Support Ministries opens to the community to provide fellowship, encouragement, and hope through conversation with others. We invite you to come for a cup of coffee, tea, light refreshments, and a place to chat. Please visit www.scsm.tv or call 540-349-5814 for more information.

Spiritual Care Support Ministries at 7179 New Hope Lane, Warrenton, VA 20187 offers support groups/counseling and special events for those experiencing the death of a loved one, divorce, and

2023 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

chronic illness. Services are free. For upcoming events and times go to the website www.scsm.tv or call 540349-5814.

LIVE MUSIC IN WARRENTON EVERY WEEKEND

Denim and Pearls

Enjoy dinner at the Casual, Comfortable, Upscale Modern American Dining Experience in Quaint Old Town Warrenton with live music.

Location: Denim and Pearls, 29 Main Street, Warrenton www.facebook.com/denimandpearlsrestaurant

Old Bust Head Brewery

Locally brewed. Universally loved. Join us for live music in our taproom.

Location: 7134 Farm Station Road, Warrenton www.oldbusthead.com

Friday and Saturday Nights on Main!

Join us for fun with the family on Main Street in Old Town Warrenton! Main Street will close from Culpeper to 5th on Friday evenings and Culpeper to 3rd on Saturday evenings. Be sure to mark your calendars and bring your friends!

Time: 5:00 - 10:00 p.m.

Location: Main Street, Warrenton www.facebook.com/even ts/234651172377236/234651235710563

MAY 14

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

Based on the popular 1988 film, DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS is the musical story of two con men living on the French Riviera. After meeting on a train, they unsuccessfully attempt to work together only to find that this small French town isn't big enough for the two of them.

Time: 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. shows

Cost: $12.00 - $15.00/person

Location: Fauquier Community Theatre, 4225 Aiken Dr, Warrenton https://fctstage.org

MAY 5

Old Town Warrenton First Friday: Spring Explosion with music by Fork in the Road

Organized by Allegro Community School of the Arts

We are excited to announce First Friday 2023! Our focus is to bring attention to Old Town Warrenton and its charm. Visitors will enjoy a fun block party that includes music, food, a beer & wine garden, and family & kids activities. This is a rain-or-shine event. Vendor opportunities are available at all six First Fridays!

Time: 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Cost: Free

Location: Main Street Warrenton www.allegrocsa.org/first-friday-warrenton

MAY 5

Cinco de Mayo

Old Bust Head Brewery

¡Feliz Cinco De Mayo! Get your fill of delicious brews & tacos from Jackleg on Cinco De Mayo!

Time: 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Location: Old Bust Head Brewery, 7134 Farm Station Road, Warrenton www.facebook.com/events/3635292096707674

MAY 6

Mysteries of the Mural Building

Join Fauquier Historical Society guide, Dave Goetz, as you discover over 30 of the hidden images found in three large murals. The tour will last about an hour. Comfortable walking shoes are suggested.

Cost: $10/non-members; $8/Fauquier Historical Society members.

For tickets: 540-347-5525

Location: Fauquier History Museum at the Old Jail, 10 Ashby Street, Warrenton www.facebook.com/events/1851219501900548

MAY 13

Spring Market

Come out to the taproom Mother's Day weekend on Saturday as we join up with a long list of local food trucks, crafters, artisans, and baby goats for a Spring Market celebration of handmade goods at Old Bust Head.

Time 12:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Location: Old Bust Head Brewery, 7134 Farm Station Road, Warrenton www.facebook.com/events/1444241536360010

MAY 14

Mother's Day Brunch

Treat the moms in your life to a special Mother's Day Brunch featuring a breakfast menu by The District Pit & beermosas. Swallowtail Ridge Farm & Botanicals will be on site with their collection of soaps, shampoo bars, teas, elixirs & more.

Time: 12:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Cost: Free event, brunch can be purchased from food trucks www.facebook.com/events/1718124601975912

MAY 20

Spring Native Plant Sale

Native plants provide better food for insects, which in turn provide food for birds. You can make a huge difference for wildlife by planting native species on your property. Since the fall of 2019 we have been collecting seeds of native grassland plants from around the area, which means in addition to being native they are of local ecotypes. The Clifton Institute will be offering seedlings grown from these seeds of a variety of perennial wildflowers, native grasses, and a few trees. Some of our favorites include butterfly weed, upland ironweed, scaly blazing star, narrow-leaf mountain mint, and gray goldenrod. Partners from other organizations will also have plants and merchandise for sale.

Time: 11:00 a.m.

Location: The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton www.facebook.com/events/3676272152633872

MAY 22

Music from America

Three cheers for the U S A! Come celebrate America and American music at this patriotic concert on Monday, May 22! The Fauquier Community Band will be playing familiar songs by American composers to get us all ready for summer, backyard BBQs, fireworks, ballgames, and good ole American fun!

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Cost: Free

Location: Fauquier High School, 705 Waterloo Road, Warrenton www.facebook.com/events/1964593530555939

JUNE 2 - 11

Once Upon a Mattress

Many moons ago in a far-off place, Queen Aggravain decreed no couples could marry until her son, Prince Dauntless, found a bride. Princesses came from far and wide to win the hand of the prince, but none could pass the impossible tests given to them by the Queen. That is, until the “shy” swamp princess, Winnifred the Woebegone, showed up.

Time: 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. shows Cost: $12.00 - $15.00/person https://fctstage.org

JUNE 3

Caboose Open House

Enjoy an imaginary trip back in time at the Old Warrenton Train Station. Tours of the Caboose and historical train information are presented by the Friends of the Warrenton Caboose.

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Location: Warrenton Branch Greenway www.facebook.com/events/2472103422940477/2472103436273809