Happy One Year Anniversary, Chancellorsville!
Photo Credit: Karen Presecan Photography
Over the past year, Neighbors of Chancellorsville has had the pleasure of introducing you to some of the incredible individuals, families, and events that make our community special. From inspiring entrepreneurs and dedicated volunteers to families who’ve built rich traditions here, each story reflects the heart and spirit of Chancellorsville. As we celebrate our anniversary, we invite you to take a look back at the wonderful people who’ve been featured and how they contribute to making our area such a vibrant and welcoming place to live:
November- The Colsons
Corey and Meghan Colson, both registered nurses, met in a hospital's critical care unit, where their shared passion for healthcare and leadership led to a loving partnership. Celebrating ten years together, they have raised three daughters—Kendall, a volleyball player and aspiring actress; Holland, a budding ballerina with dreams of becoming a veterinarian; and Lana, a swimmer and gymnast with a love for unicorns. The family enjoys quality time together, whether through spontaneous adventures or relaxing at home, cherishing simple moments that create lasting memories.
Living in Spotsylvania County, the Colsons embrace the beauty of nature surrounding their home and value the traditions of their past while creating new family memories. Their successful business, BallistiX Coatings & Sealers, is a tribute to Corey's decorated Marine father, and the couple is dedicated to supporting their community and honoring military service. They believe in the importance of service, gratitude, and fostering a strong sense of community, always ready to lend a hand to those in need. The Colsons welcome anyone they meet, embodying their belief that there's always room for one more in their lives.
December- The Crawley Family
Krista and David Crawley's love story began on a dating app, with a marathon conversation that blossomed into a deep connection during their first date in downtown Fredericksburg. Despite their initial long-distance relationship—David being a Marine stationed in North Carolina and Krista embarking on a trip to Europe—the couple’s bond grew stronger, leading to a day spent together in Germany at a medieval castle. After a year of "geobacheloring," the couple settled down in Fawn Lake, where they now enjoy life with their seven children. Each child has their own unique passion, from wrestling and skateboarding to theater and horseback riding, while the youngest, Finn, has already traveled to 10 countries with his adventure-loving parents.
The Crawley family's life is marked by a love for travel, family, and adventure. Krista works as counsel and VP of Human Resources at Ademia, while David, now retired after 20 years of military service, is pursuing a pilot’s license. The couple thrives on seeking new experiences, and even launched a business, FXBG Axes, after enjoying a date at the axe-throwing venue. When not exploring new destinations, they enjoy the vibrant community life in Fawn Lake, with its social events, outdoor activities, and peaceful setting. Their love for each other and their adventurous spirit continue to guide them as they embrace every opportunity for new experiences together.
Jan- The Watsons
Josie and Ed Watson’s story is one of love, resilience, and community. Ed worked at the White House for 37 years, serving as foreman of the carpentry shop, while Josie helped hundreds of families through her mortgage career. Despite some early wedding-day mishaps, the couple has been happily married for 42 years and has two sons, Kyle and Bryce. The twins are active in the community, running their business, Grand Slam Plumbing, and coaching local youth sports.
Now retired and living in Fawn Lake, Josie and Ed enjoy a quieter life, surrounded by nature and a supportive community. They remain involved by sponsoring local programs, volunteering, and spending time with their grandchildren. The Watsons cherish the legacy they’ve built—rooted in family, service, and a deep connection to their home in Fawn Lake.
Feb- The Lethbridge Family
The Lethbridge brothers—Zach, Matt, and Jake—embody a shared dedication to service, family, and community in Fredericksburg. Following in their father Mark's footsteps, a Naval Academy graduate and Naval Flight Officer, all three brothers pursued military careers: Zach and Matt as Marine Corps officers and Jake as a Naval Flight Officer. After completing their military service, they each chose to settle in Fredericksburg, where they united their diverse skills and experiences to launch Kitchen Tune-Up Fredericksburg & Stafford in 2021.
Kitchen Tune-Up specializes in kitchen remodels and wood cabinetry rejuvenation, offering services that blend craftsmanship and customer focus.
Beyond their business, the brothers are rooted in Fredericksburg, appreciating the area's natural beauty, family-friendly environment, and rich history. Zach and his wife Rosemary, Matt and his wife Blair, and Jake, the proud "Cool Uncle," are raising their families here, enjoying local attractions and outdoor adventures. The Lethbridges also look forward to future family trips, having previously bonded over visits to Glacier National Park.
Together, the brothers have built both a thriving business and a strong family presence in Fredericksburg, exemplifying how values of service, hard work, and unity can create lasting impact on a community.
March- The Owens Family
The Owens family is a powerful example of resilience, faith, and dedication to both their family and community. Nathan and Karie Owens met in college and have since built a life around their shared faith and service to others, both in the U.S. and abroad. Their missionary work in Cameroon, West Africa, tested their strength, especially when Karie faced life-threatening illness, yet their unwavering belief carried them through. Together, they raised nine children, including two sets of twins, and have continued their passion for service while running their family-owned business, NK Floors. Nathan, skilled in flooring from a young age, leads the business, while Karie and their older children also contribute.
Now residing in the Chancellorsville area, the Owens family remains active in their local church, Faith Baptist, and continues to serve others through their business and ministries. Despite the challenges they’ve faced, their faith and sense of purpose have kept them strong and united. Their children are pursuing various passions, from education and ministry to nursing and athletics, reflecting the diverse talents and interests nurtured within their resilient family. As the Owens family looks ahead, they inspire those around them with their commitment to faith, family, and hard work.
April- The Alghabras
The Alghabra family, consisting of Beata, Jalal, and their children embodies unity and unwavering support in both their personal and professional lives. After meeting through mutual friends 23 years ago, they have raised amazing children, each pursuing their own admirable goals. Ameen is on the path to becoming a helicopter pilot, while Lena studies science at the University of Virginia, appreciating her family's constant support. Beata has realized her dream of owning Synergy HomeCare of Fredericksburg, with Jalal as her steadfast partner and administrator. Their son also plays a significant role in the business, caring for veterans and enhancing the family's commitment to serving others.
Originally from North Carolina, the Alghabra family has embraced their life in Fredericksburg, valuing the community's charm, excellent public schools, and strong local healthcare. They enjoy the area's beauty, culture, and close-knit neighborhood, where friendly connections abound. With shared passions and a love for each other, they find joy in family moments, whether at home or exploring new places together. Their dedication to making a positive impact in the community through their business and personal endeavors showcases the strength of their family bond and their desire to support others.
May- Miss Kim
Kim Hicks, known to many as "Miss Kim," is a woman of grace, resilience, and fashion who has deeply impacted the Fredericksburg community. Born in Savannah, her Southern roots and family-oriented upbringing shaped her journey, especially in raising five children alongside her beloved husband, Bennie. A homemaker for most of her life, Kim also took on various jobs, from working in a hospital to assisting her husband with carpentry work. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her own family to neighborhood children, many of whom still keep in touch.
A lover of fashion, Kim developed her own style early on, learning to sew clothes for herself and her family. To this day, she is known for her impeccable taste, whether shopping at high-end boutiques or thrifting at local stores. Her love for dressing up has inspired her children and grandchildren, who share her fashion sense and continue the traditions she instilled in them. Beyond fashion, Kim enjoys travel, spending time with family, and attending local events in Fredericksburg. Though she now lives with her daughter and son-in-law, Yvette and Peter Blake, Kim continues to stay active, volunteering and participating in community activities. At 86, her vibrant spirit and love for life are as strong as ever, leaving a lasting legacy of love, style, and community involvement.
June- The Cooks
The Cook family, led by Janos "John" and Jen, embodies togetherness and adventure in Chancellor West. With five vibrant children—Savannah (11), Charlotte "Charlie" (10), Harper (8), Chase (6), and Johnny (4)—and their foster dog Nala, their home is a lively hub of love and laughter. John, a retired Marine now with the Department of Justice, and Jen, a real estate agent, share a commitment to their careers and family, fostering a supportive environment for each child's unique interests and talents.
Harper, who faces challenges due to SYNGAP1, a rare genetic condition, has inspired the family to advocate for awareness and support within the special needs community. They recently installed a pool to aid her therapy, showcasing their dedication to her well-being. The Cooks treasure their vibrant neighborhood, participating in local events and building strong connections with neighbors. Grateful for the community's support, they embody resilience and love as they navigate life and raise their children together.
July- The Fawn Lake Triathlon
The Fawn Lake Triathlon, now in its 15th year, stands out as a family-centric event amid a sea of competitive races in the region. Race Director Jeff Kramer envisions the triathlon as more than just a race; it’s an opportunity for families to train together and bond, fostering togetherness through the shared experience of preparing for the event. Participants like Dustin Beall and Amy Huesgen emphasize the unique joy of competing alongside their children, creating lasting memories and encouraging one another throughout the training process. The event features various races for different age groups, promoting fitness and camaraderie within the community.
This annual triathlon also benefits numerous local charities, relying on the support of over 100 volunteers from the Fawn Lake community to ensure its success. Last year, the event raised $30,000 for the Families of the Wounded Fund and other local organizations, reinforcing its commitment to giving back. The Fawn Lake Triathlon culminates in a community celebration, complete with an awards ceremony and pizza party, highlighting the collective spirit of participants and volunteers alike. With its emphasis on family, fitness, and philanthropy, the triathlon has become a cherished tradition in the Fawn Lake community, uniting residents in a shared passion for active lifestyles and mutual support.
August- Lauren Jordan & Erin Reid
Lauren Jordan and Erin Reid's friendship blossomed into a business partnership that led to the creation of Verdant Wellness, a thriving wellness business focused on holistic health. Both women, who first connected as neighbors, share a background in healthcare, which laid the foundation for their collaboration. Erin is a Family Nurse Practitioner with a deep passion for patient care, while Lauren’s expertise as a nurse practitioner complements Erin’s skills perfectly.
Their families have embraced life in Fawn Lake, appreciating the community and outdoor opportunities the area provides. Both Erin and Lauren value travel and enjoy time with their families, often balancing their professional responsibilities with active family lives. Lauren's children, Grace, Ashton, and Jonathan, and Erin's children, Grant, Emelia, and Beckett, are deeply involved in sports, church, and other activities, supported by their mothers’ commitment to health and well-being. Through their friendship and shared values, Lauren and Erin have built a flourishing wellness practice while nurturing their families and contributing to their local community.
September- Jason Haag
Jason Haag's life is a powerful example of resilience, service, and family devotion. As a Marine Corps veteran and founder of Leashes of Valor (LOV), a nonprofit providing service dogs to wounded veterans, Jason's journey highlights both personal and professional strength. His three children—Tristan, Colby, and Peyton—remain at the center of his life, and his bond with his service dog, Maverick, underscores the healing power of companionship.
Jason’s dedication to Leashes of Valor reflects his mission to support fellow veterans, while his commitment to his family, including his children's mother, Elizabeth, remains strong. Despite a busy schedule, Jason makes time for his children and his competitive golfing hobby, while also cherishing the local community's overwhelming support for LOV. Through his work, Jason continues to impact veterans' lives while maintaining his role as a devoted father and leader.
October- Dana Atkins & Kim Reynolds
Dana Atkins and Kim Reynolds have been close friends since seventh grade, and their bond has flourished into a successful business partnership with Love Buzz Mobile Bar in Fredericksburg, Virginia. After reconnecting as adults and living just a mile apart, they launched their mobile bar business, transforming a 1969 Shasta camper into a stylish event centerpiece. Their complementary strengths—Dana managing operations and Kim overseeing event shopping and budgeting—help their business thrive, while their mutual passion for fitness and creative cocktails deepens their connection.
They enjoy contributing to the community through events and volunteer work, including support for the local SPCA Fur Ball. Anchored by a lifelong friendship, Dana and Kim’s business is flourishing, and they continue to create lasting memories together both personally and professionally.
