Lou Bon-Ami, a 23-year Marine Corps veteran who settled in Stafford in 2019, has been selected for the region's most prestigious leadership program while he and wife Carline run their faith-based educational institute HopeSpring International from their Stafford home.

Stafford alumnus Lucas Kral is double-majoring in Mechanical Engineering and Music at Iowa State University with a scholarship covering a quarter of his tuition, while current Mountain View students reveal how their music program is teaching them teamwork, cognitive performance, and life skills that reach far beyond the stage.

The 27-acre Gari Melchers Home & Studio at Belmont has been quietly showcasing an American Impressionist master's original works, historic estate, and sprawling gardens in Falmouth since 1975, now managed by UMW as one of the region's best-kept cultural secrets.

Ashley Lavin's HOMEstretch Services is transforming homes across Fredericksburg with painting, flooring, and remodeling projects that turned one "few boxes" garage clearout into a memory-filled adventure involving vintage tools and old yearbooks—proving that local home improvement can be stress-free and personal.

Tammy Christian started writing children's books in 2021 after years in tech, and her colorful cricket character Eric is helping local kids tackle first-day jitters at kindergarten while she writes early mornings at Hyperion Espresso downtown, with her holiday book Eric the Colorful Cricket Saves Christmas releasing soon.

In the heart of downtown Fredericksburg, Fahrenheit 132 stands as a culinary oasis, offering an unparalleled dining experience that transcends mere sustenance and is every carnivore's dream. Arguably the best restaurant in town, Fahrenheit 132 captivates patrons with its exquisite ambiance, impeccable service, and a menu that pays homage to the finest ingredients and culinary craftsmanship.