2015 Prince William Chamber Awards by Northern Virginia Media Services

EXTRA EDITION FEBRUARY 25, 2015

WWW.INSIDENOVA.COM

About this edition

his “extra” edition of Prince William Today has been produced exclusively for guests and honorees at the Prince William Chamber of Commerce’s 2015 Business Awards banquet. As a fellow small business and Chamber sponsor, Prince William Today is proud to recognize all of tonight’s finalists and honorees. Tonight’s event will also be covered in the Feb. 27 issue of Prince William Today, available on newsstands. Prince William Today is part of Northern Virginia Media Services, which publishes four other weekly newspapers: Leesburg Today, Ashburn Today, the Arlington Sun Gazette, and the Sun Gazette covering the Fairfax County communities of Great Falls, McLean, Oakton, Tysons and Vienna. The group, based in Leesburg, also publishes two monthlies, Washington FAMILY Magazine and Middleburg Life, and produces the LeesburgToday.com and InsideNoVa. com web sites. Its print products reach 160,000 high-income households every week, and the web sites generate more than 2 million page views a month. Finally, thank you to the advertisers who made this section possible: • Appliance Connection • ECU Communications • Harvey Insurance Agency • HomeTowne Auto Repair and Tire • Innovative Reasoning • My Plumber Heating & Cooling • Neighbor's Keeper • Novant Health Congratulations to all of tonight’s honorees! Kari Pugh | Editor kpugh@princewilliamtoday.com Bruce Potter | Chief Operating Officer bpotter@princewilliamtoday.com

Prince William Chamber Announces 2015 Award Winners

TECH COMPANY OF THE YEAR WINNER: Imagine OTHER NOMINEES: » ATCC - American Type Culture Collection » High Purity Systems Inc. » JTC Inc. » SySTEMic Solutions Pages 12-13 AGNES COLGAN COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS: HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES WINNER: Trillium Drop-In Center Inc.

INNOVATIVE PRACTICE/ PARTNERSHIP OF THE YEAR

MEDIUM-SIZED BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

WINNER: Northern Virginia Community College Manassas, Global Learning Center

WINNER: Fluet, Huber + Hoang PLLC

OTHER NOMINEE: » Imagine Page 3 MICRO BUSINESS OF THE YEAR WINNER: American Solutions for Business OTHER NOMINEES: » BadWolf Brewing Company » Custom Designers Inc. » Imagine » No Blue Creative » Visions Productivity Solutions Pages 4-5

OTHER NOMINEES: » Alpha Pets Inc. » Jabs Construction Inc. » R.W. Murray Co. Page 8 LARGE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR WINNER: American Disposal Services OTHER NOMINEES: » My Plumber Heating & Cooling » Novant Health Page 9

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

WINNER: ECU Communications

WINNER: Mike Garcia Construction

OTHER NOMINEES: » Alpha Pets Inc. » Fairfax Breakfast Club » Harvey Insurance Agency » Imagine » Innovative Reasoning LLC » Pop-A-Lock of Northern Virginia » Shdow LLC » State Farm Insurance Agency - Al Nasiri Pages 6-7

OTHER NOMINEES: » ActionCOACH of Old Town Manassas » Alpha Pets Inc. » Imagine » Prince William Living » Prince William Today » The NEW School Inc. Pages 10-11

OTHER NOMINEES: » Court Appointed Special Advocates - Child Intervention Services » Friends of SERVE » GFWC Dominion Woman’s Club » Independence Empowerment Center » Project Mend-A-House » Quilting 4 Kids » Rotary Club of Manassas Bull Run (Bull Run Rotary Club) Pages 14-15 AGNES COLGAN COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS: ARTS & EDUCATION WINNER: Literacy Volunteers of America – Prince William Inc. OTHER NOMINEES: » Apple Federal Credit Union » Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington - Prince William County / Manassas Branches » GFWC Dominion Woman’s Club » Neighbor’s Keeper » SPARK, the Education Foundation for Prince William County Public Schools Pages 16-17 NEW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR WINNER: PR for Anyone OTHER NOMINEES: » HomeTowne Auto Repair and Tire » Pop-A-Lock of Northern Virginia Page 18

February 25, 2015 • www.insidenova.com

CLASSIFIED

BUSINESS

LIFESTYLE

SPORTS

OPINION

EDUCATION

PWT NEWS

Innovative Practice/Partnership of the Year:

· Other Nominee ·

Imagine Website: www.imaginedc.net

8300 SUDLEY ROAD, MANASSAS, 20109 (IN THE MANASSAS MALL) nvcc.edu/manassas/glc (coming soon)

Brief description of organization: The goal of the NOVA Manassas Campus Global Learning Center is to help residents achieve their career and educational goals while providing personal

What has been the biggest challenge to your organization and how have you overcome it? The biggest challenge has been to continually get the word out.

When was the organization started? September 2013

BUSINESS

HOME OF THE FREE FLAT TIRE REPAIR IN WOODBRIDGE

LIFESTYLE

Number of employees: 3

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? We have experienced tremendous success engaging the community through a variety of workshops, education-focused information sessions and a newly created advisory board comprised of influential leaders committed to accessible education.

SPORTS

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Dr. Roger Ramsammy, Provost of Northern Virginia Community College Manassas Campus

What makes your organization unique? The NOVA Manassas GLC is unique as it has the capacity to marry community leaders and prospective students in a highly accessible environment aimed at removing barriers to education.

OPINION

Northern Virginia Community College Manassas Global Learning Center (NOVA Manassas GLC)

growth and enrichment opportunities. In partnership with area organizations, we offer informative workshops on a variety of topics such as immigration; the Dream Act; how to register and pay for classes at NOVA; Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) initiatives; pre-employment information and more.

EDUCATION

Winner

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Patrick King When was the business started? 2004 Number of employees: 5 Brief description of business: Founded in 2004 with $14 and a dream, Imagine is a full-service integrated marketing firm. With an award-winning team of industry experts, we know what works, and what works well. We offer strategic and creative communications, design, digital marketing and brand development to transform businesses and charities to high-growth organizations. What makes your business unique? Here’s what sets us apart: » We’re not all things to all people. We excel because we’ve taken the time to learn and understand the industries with whom we work. » We’re small and think big. There is nothing more disruptive to the status quo than a small group of big thinkers. » We design with purpose. Every typeface, layout and marketing tactic is based on legitimate research, not trends or how we feel at the moment. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Although we’ve always had a big place in our hearts for community involvement, we finally made it official with this year’s launch of the Imagine Better Project. The project actively promotes pro bono work, volunteerism and fundraising for non-profits. Our site at www.imaginebetterproject.org showcases the causes we've helped. What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? The recession really tested our business. However, at our greatest moment of need, a magical Viking who ascended from the heavens on a unicorn saved us. Just kidding. We found strength in partnerships and focusing our attention on what’s important – building a strong team and building a reputation based on results.

PWT NEWS

9415 WEST STREET, MANASSAS, 20110

CLASSIFIED

HomeTowneTire.com HOURS OF OPERATION

M-F: 7:00 am - 7:00 pm | Sat: 7:00 am - 5:00 pm | Sunday: CLOSED Home of The FREE Flat Tire Repair in Woodbridge

www.insidenova.com • February 25, 2015

15698 Jefferson Davis Hwy | Woodbridge, VA 22191

EDUCATION

PWT NEWS

Micro Business of the Year

OPINION

Winner ness look good.

American Solutions For Business 10070 GREENWICH WOOD DR., NOKESVILLE, 20181

Website: www.asb-va.com

When was the business started? 2003 Number of employees: 1 Brief description of business: American Solutions for Business provides printing, promotional products, displays and banners, and complete marketing support to businesses. Our “solutions” make running a business simpler and marketing more successful. From business card design to on-line e-commerce stores, we make any busi-

What has been the biggest challenge to your business/organization and how have you overcome it? As a small business we constantly struggle to grow and still maintain the personal level of service our customers are used to while keeping expenses in line. In 2014 we developed some shared resources that limit our committed expenses, and implemented new scalable technologies that provide world-class operational support on a pay-as-you-go basis.

What is your biggest accomplishment over the

Harvey Insurance Agency Inc. Harvey Insurance builds long-term relationships by providing Clients with expert insurance solutions.

CLASSIFIED

BUSINESS

LIFESTYLE

SPORTS

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Patrick Ennis

What makes your business unique? We don't just sell products; we create new sales, more repeat customers and happier employees. Our clients are more successful and spend less than they will with other printing and promotional products companies. We make their marketing more efPATRICK ENNIS fective, we streamline their operations, and we make it easier for them to do business.

past year? We more than doubled our customer base.

We help individuals, families and businesses protect themselves against loss.

February 25, 2015 • www.insidenova.com

We exist to serve our Clients with flexible, friendly service –– ONE CLIENT AT A TIME.

PROVIDER OF

Auto Insurance

Home Insurance

Life Insurance

William R. Harvey Jr. Agency President

Business Insurance

14950 Washington St. Suite 200, Haymarket, VA 20169-3001

703.378.2886

· Other Nominees ·

BadWolf Brewing Owner/Chairman/CEO: Sarah and Jeremy Meyers When was the business started? Founded June 2012, opened June 2013 Number of employees: 4

What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? Keeping up with beer demand since day one has been the number-one issue. We’ve tried not to advertise and have no budget for marketing. We avoid festivals and try to keep enough supply for customers coming into the brewery. We believe we have solved the issue by securing a second location.

What makes your business unique? Each batch is

12914-B FITZWATER DRIVE, NOKESVILLE 20181 Website: customdesigners.com

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Debra Brunner When was the business started? 1981 Number of employees: 2

9415 WEST STREET MANASSAS, 20110

What makes your business unique? Here’s what sets us apart: » We’re not all things to all people. We excel because we’ve taken the time to learn and understand the industries with whom we work. » We’re small and think big. There is nothing more disruptive to the status quo than a small group of big thinkers. » We design with purpose. Every typeface, layout and marketing tactic is based on legitimate research, not trends or how we feel at the moment.

Website: www.imaginedc.net

No Blue Creative

strategy they need to use to make their business more profitable.

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Jennifer Jessie When was the business started? 2009 Number of employees: 2 Brief description of business: Social media and content marketing strategy What makes your business unique? We want our clients to grow, in profits and ability. We want our clients to become independent and know the social media

4196 MERCHANTS PLAZA, #358, LAKE RIDGE, 22192 Website: www.visionsproductivitysolutions.com

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Nicole Chamblin When was the business/organization started? 2005

Brief description of business: Visions Productivity Solutions is a productivity consulting company that helps clients connect with their vision, communicate their goals and collaborate more productively through customized training, workshops and solutions. What makes your business unique? My background in psychology and communications combined with realworld lessons from working in marketing and advertising and my service on not-for-profit boards, gives me unique

What has been the biggest challenge to your business/ organization and how have you overcome it? Doubt and change. Social media evolves every day. The client’s needs change every day. I have to evolve to meet those needs. I never feel like I have mastered this profession. That is why I always have to be committed to growth. insight into the productivity challenges facing us --allowing me to customize training, workshops and productivity solutions that match the way my clients work.

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? My networking and business collaborations have led to recurring training opportunities with government agencies and growing name recognition as a productivity specialist in this market. What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? Becoming active in the Prince William Chamber of Commerce played an integral role in my efforts to build name recognition and awareness after relocating my business from New York to Virginia.

www.insidenova.com • February 25, 2015

Number of employees: 1

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Speaking in front of the DC Bar Association on LinkedIn for Lawyers. As a former (and still licensed) attorney, it felt good to find a way to bring my previous and current professions in harmony.

CLASSIFIED

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past

What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? The recession really tested our business. However, at our greatest moment of need, a magical Viking who ascended from the heavens on a unicorn saved us. Just kidding. We found strength in partnerships and focusing our attention on what’s important – building a strong team and building a reputation based on results.

1751 PINNACLE DRIVE, SUITE 600, MCLEAN Website: www.nobluecreative.com

Visions Productivity Solutions

year? Although we’ve always had a big place in our hearts for community involvement, we finally made it official with this year’s launch of the Imagine Better Project. The project actively promotes pro bono work, volunteerism and fundraising for non-profits. Our site at www.imaginebetterproject.org showcases the causes we've helped.

BUSINESS

digital marketing and brand development to transform businesses and charities to high-growth organizations.

What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? Staying current with technology and trends through education, research and committee participation.

LIFESTYLE

Imagine

What makes your business unique? Our experience and superior customer-driven service.

SPORTS

Brief description of business: Custom Designers Inc. is a woman-owned and operated award-winning graphic design studio. We produce quality artwork for all facets of print media and digital technologies. We have been a member of the Prince William Chamber of Commerce

since 1995 and certified as a Small Women-owned and Minority-owned (SWaM) firm since 2006. We are also a member of the Nokesville Business Association.

OPINION

Custom Designers Inc.

EDUCATION

Brief description of business: BadWolf is the first brewery in Manassas. Our vision is to craft an exquisite line of craft beers that appeal to the local palate. With our ever-changing taps, there is always something exciting to taste.

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? We’ve secured a second location for an awesome expansion coming spring 2015! Runner up: We’ve come up with over 250 recipes and continue to innovate.

PWT NEWS

9776 CENTER ST, MANASSAS, VA 20110 Website: www.badwolfbrewingcompany.com

brewed on site, and the goal is to brew the best beer we can make. Our taproom is nothing fancy because it’s all about the beer.

LIFESTYLE

SPORTS

OPINION

EDUCATION

PWT NEWS

Small Business of the Year

Winner ECU Communications 12775 RANDOLPH RIDGE LANE, SUITE 201 MANASSAS, 20109 Website: ecucomm.com

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Jacqueline “Jackie” Krick When was the business started? 2004 Number of employees: 15 Brief description of business: ECU is an awardwinning, full-service marketing and advertising JACQUELINE agency, serving private secKRICK tor businesses, non-profits, and government clients at the local, county, state and federal levels. Our specialty areas include brand development, audience engagement, digital footprint and multicultural

impact. What makes your business unique? Our name means Extreme Close-Up, which is how we strategically define audiences, reach them — and deliver with a great rate of return — highly specific messages. We reach general audiences as well as multicultural audiences. We continually receive exceptional ratings from our clients in every work category. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? ECU continued to orchestrate national marketing campaigns, including for the Department of Homeland Security’s E-Verify program

and Medicare’s Spanish-language Open Enrollment (increasing results by nearly 140 percent over a previous contractor’s 2013 campaign). ECU was also the proud winner of the advertising and marketing contract for the Prince William County Department of Economic Development. What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? We are working to establish a well-rounded business model that encompasses an even more diverse mix of federal, state, local, nonprofit and private sector clients. This work in progress is a major challenge in itself, because each sector has such different dynamics.

February 25, 2015 • www.insidenova.com

CLASSIFIED

BUSINESS

· Other Nominees ·

Alpha Pets Inc. 4196 MERCHANT PLAZA, #123, WOODBRIDGE, 22192 Website: www.alphapetsinc.com

Owner/Chairman/ CEO: Jen Jones (Owner/Top Dog) When was the business started? February 2009 Brief description of business: Alpha Pets offers comprehensive pet care services, including pet sitting, dog walking, dog training and behavioral counseling. We also provide care for special needs animals, including but not limited to medication administration and injections. What makes your business unique? Alpha Pets is owned and operated by a licensed veterinary technician who also has a master's degree in animal science from Cornell University. All of our staff regularly participate in ongoing training and educational opportunities, and they are all Pet First Aid and CPR certified. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? In 2014, we started a not-for-profit division that trains and places assistance dogs with individuals who need them. We also provide therapy dogs who work in hospitals, nursing homes, libraries, schools and even funeral homes. What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? Our biggest challenge has always been saying good-bye to the animals we love when it is time for them to cross The Rainbow Bridge. We will never overcome this challenge. Our clients, their pets and our staff are all part of a big family, and we deal with loss and grief together as a family.

Fairfax Breakfast Club and Expos 10726 WEST DRIVE, FAIRFAX, 22030 Website: www.blnbc.com www.ultbizexpo.com

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Basile Lemba When was the business/organization started? 2001 Number of employees: 1 Brief description of organization: We bring business owners together so they can do business with one another What makes your organization unique? We are totally customer-centered What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Increasing attendance What has been the biggest challenge to your business/organization and how have you overcome it? Multi-media marketing.

The Harvey Insurance Agency 14950 WASHINGTON STREET-SUITE #200 HAYMARKET, 20169 Website: www.Harveyinsuranceagency.com

Owner/Chairman/CEO: William R. Harvey, Jr. When was the business started? 1985 Number of employees: 7 Brief description of business: We provide expert insurance and financial solutions to families and businesses to protect themselves against loss and to gain financial independence. What makes your business unique? We build long-term relationships and we exist to serve our clients - one at a time. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Keeping clients. With all the competition our clients don’t leave. What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? I am blessed to have the best staff in the business. They are the heart and soul of the agency.

· Other Nominees ·

9415 WEST STREET MANASSAS, 20110

Website: www.imaginedc.net

17739 MAIN STREET, SUITE 320 DUMFRIES, 22554 Website: www.innovativereasoning.com

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Our biggest accomplishment this year was the opening of our Northern Virginia office in Quantico. This endeavor resulted in doubling our workforce and enabled IR to expand our training knowledge and expertise to a larger market within the Marine Corps and federal agencies. What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? Our biggest challenge has been getting our name out/name recognition to the Northern Virginia area. One of the best ways we have succeeded, and thus grown business in this area, has been joining the Chamber. The contacts and connections we have made in this past year have been tremendous. In addition, we have capitalized on many of those relationships and produced mutually beneficial outcomes.

When was the business/organization started? February 2013

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? We were able to reach our break-even point, even as we expanded to include Spotsylvania and Stafford Counties in our owned territories.

Number of employees: 3

2805 PIPER GLENN CT, DUMFRIES, 22026 Website: www.popalocknova.com

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Jeffrey Watson

9403 GRANT AVENUE, SUITE 100, MANASSAS, 20110 Website: www.shdowsecurity.com

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Hicham Sbihi When was the business started? 2005 Brief description of business: Shdow Security is a privately held company specializing in proactive management solutions that assist small to large business owners and homeowners in preventing loss and eliminating security issues. We have earned an excellent reputation for providing an outstanding product and quality service

What makes your business unique? We are a veteranowned business that is truly a 24/7 operation. We also have a program called PAL Saves Kids, in which we will unlock cars for free if a child or pet is locked inside. as well as support. What makes your business unique? The ability to perform same-day installations.

the United States and abroad and bringing back the latest technology that exceeds what our competitors have to offer.

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Securing a contract with one of the top property management companies in the nation.

CLASSIFIED

Shdow, LLC (Shdow Security)

What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? We have to educate the public about our business and generate enough income to turn a profit. We do many networking and promotional events, as well as providing free Pop-A-Lock pens to the wait staff at many area restaurants.

BUSINESS

Pop-A-Lock of Northern Virginia

Brief description of business: Pop-A-Lock of Northern Virginia is part of the largest locksmith franchise company in the nation. We are a mobile locksmith service for residential, commercial and automotive needs. From unlocking doors, cars, or safes to full installations and repairs of locking hardware, Pop-A-Lock can meet nearly any locksmithing challenge.

LIFESTYLE

Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business providing training services to the United States Marine Corps, Department of Energy and the West Virginia Army National Guard. Our core capabilities consist of exercise design, scenario development, site management, training unit exercise, administrative support, document development and logistics support services. What makes your business unique? We place extreme importance on having a presence in the community to ensure and enhance our superior support for our key customers at the USMC Training & Education Command at MCB Quantico, to include seven Marine Corps bases and installations. As we continue to grow, we hope to affect the local economy by adding more employees to our company and expanding our workspace.

SPORTS

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Rob Roberson When was the business started? Our Orlando office was established in 2006 and the Quantico office opened in April 2014. Number of employees: 95 Brief description of business: Innovative Reasoning is a

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past

OPINION

Innovative Reasoning LLC

EDUCATION

digital marketing and brand development to transform businesses and charities to high-growth organizations.

PWT NEWS

Imagine

What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? Our challenge was to compete in this industry with other companies in the same field who have been in business for more years than us and have a reputation nationwide. We were able to provide our customers with a product that exceeded their expectations by visiting multiple conventions in

Brief description of business: We offer personal lines, including auto, home, renters, condo, life, health, business and financial services.

Al Nasiri's State Farm Insurance Agency

What makes your business unique? Great customer service; our office is open on Saturdays. We have a very diversified staff, speaking five languages.

8704 SUDLEY ROAD, MANASSAS, 20110 Website: www.Afzalnasiri.com

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Al Nasiri

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Helping non-profits in Manassas and Manassas Park, including an elementary school and the Manassas Symphony.

When was the organization started? December 2001

What has been the biggest challenge to your business

and how have you overcome it? People do business with people they know and trust. I am still trying to get over that hump.

www.insidenova.com • February 25, 2015

Number of employees: 7

PWT NEWS

Medium-Sized Business of the Year

When was the business started? 2009 Number of employees: 25

February 25, 2015 • www.insidenova.com

CLASSIFIED

BUSINESS

LIFESTYLE

SPORTS

OPINION

EDUCATION

Brief description of business: Fluet Huber + Hoang (FH+H) is a values-based law firm focused on middle-market companies. FH+H’s five practice group—Corporate + Business Transactions, Litigation + Investigations, International Trade + Transactions, Government Contracts, and Employment Law-are sought out by companies worldwide that want lawyers who understand business, attack their immediate legal problems, and support and enable continued company growth.

Winner Fluet Huber + Hoang, PLLC 13580 GROUPE DRIVE, SUITE 200 WOODBRIDGE, 22192 Website: www.fluetlaw.com Owner/Chairman/CEO: Managing Partner – Tom Craig

What makes your business unique? At FH+H, we have an exceptional ability to craft immediate, comprehensive, and customized solutions servicing our clients beyond simply drafting documents or reviewing legal requirements. FH+H often connects clients with other professionals and with other firm clients who can add long-term value. Leveraging relationships is something we have found most law firms fail to do.

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Our biggest accomplishment has been to grow into new areas while maintaining our momentum in existing practices. In particular, we have deepened our legal bench by adding attorneys with skill and experience in complex corporate transactions, intellectual property litigation and other key areas, while continuing to grow our international transactions and export practice. What has been the biggest challenge to your business/organization and how have you overcome it? Our biggest challenge is continuing to find high-caliber lawyers to service the needs of our growing client base. We have overcome that challenge by seeking out attorneys currently working primarily in large corporate or big law firm environments who want to be part of a practice that allows them to develop closer and deeper ties to their clients.

· Other Nominees ·

Alpha Pets Inc.

Jabs Construction Inc.

4196 MERCHANT PLAZA, #123, WOODBRIDGE, 22192 Website: www.alphapetsinc.com

17869 FRALEY BLVD., DUMFRIES, 22026 Website: www.jabsinc.com

Owner/Chairman/ CEO: Jen Jones (Owner/Top Dog)

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Chris Jabs, President; Tim Jabs, Vice President/ Architect

R.W. Murray Co.

When was the business started? In 1978 by Wally and Madeleine Jabs as Wally’s Workshop. Chris started full time after graduating from high school. Tim joined the company in an architectural capacity, and the company grew gradually. In 1995, Jabs Construction Inc. was created, with Chris and Tim Jabs as President and Vice President.

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Stephen W. Daves, President; Charles M. Loving, III, CEO; Jonathan Barbour, Vice President When was the business started? Our roots go back to 1959 with the original office opening in St. Louis, Missouri. Our regional office was established in 1987 to serve the Washington metro area. Number of employees: 30 Brief description of business: R.W. Murray Co. is a local, privately-held general contractor with a foundation built on safety, quality, excellence and ethics. We offer pre-construction, design-build and general contracting services to suit your project needs whether large or small, including base building, renovation and interior build-out. What makes your business unique? Our project teams are rewarded for client satisfaction and jobsite safety through the use of our unique Project Incentive Plan determined by setting and achieving high customer service goals, not project profitability. This plan encourages long-term relationship-building and insures that our team remains focused on the client instead of the bottom line. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Over the past year, we completed several noteworthy projects in Prince William County; Elite Shooting Sports, PWC Science Accelerator Lab, APP Jet Center, Rebounderz and JNJ Battlequest, just to name a few. What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? The year was not without its obstacles. Although our company has long-standing processes in place to minimize the impact of changing market conditions, the overall sluggishness of the local commercial real estate industry continued to pose a challenge, but we feel we successfully prevailed shown by the amount of projects we completed.

When was the business started? February 2009 Brief description of business: Alpha Pets offers comprehensive pet care services, including pet sitting, dog walking, dog training and behavioral counseling. We also provide care for special needs animals, including but not limited to medication administration and injections. What makes your business unique? Alpha Pets is owned and operated by a licensed veterinary technician who also has a master's degree in animal science from Cornell University. All of our staff regularly participate in ongoing training and educational opportunities, and they are all Pet First Aid and CPR certified. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? In 2014, we started a not-for-profit division that trains and places assistance dogs with individuals who need them. We also provide therapy dogs who work in hospitals, nursing homes, libraries, schools and even funeral homes. What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? Our biggest challenge has always been saying good-bye to the animals we love when it is time for them to cross The Rainbow Bridge. We will never overcome this challenge. Our clients, their pets and our staff are all part of a big family, and we deal with loss and grief together as a family.

Number of employees: 17 Brief description of business: We are a residential design/remodeling company, specializing in home additions, kitchen remodeling and bathroom remodeling. We also complete a wide range of projects, including: front porches, decks, finished basements and miscellaneous home repairs of all types. What makes your business/organization unique? We have an in-house architect who designs and draws the project our clients envision, and then our skilled craftsmen do the rest. This saves time and money for our customers. We have an integral electrical division, which streamlines our remodeling projects and provides quick service to our community. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Our biggest accomplishment in the last year due to the improving economy has been adding a full-time receptionist to our office staff, which has been a great business asset. What has been the biggest challenge to your business/ organization and how have you overcome it? Our biggest challenge is convincing potential customers that choosing a different contractor with the cheapest price is not always the best option, when they often end up with poor workmanship, incorrect materials and inadequate customer service. We have overcome this challenge by educating our clients and creating trust with them.

10440 BALLS FORD ROAD, SUITE 100, MANASSAS, 20109 Website: www.rwmurray.com

Large Business of the Year PWT NEWS EDUCATION

Winner American Disposal Services » GreenStream®: A groundbreaking combined green cleaning/waste and recycling collection program for commercial spaces. » The American Recycling Center: Recycling processing facility featuring an attached Interactive Learning Center which hosts free tours for the community. » Outreach & Education program, ThinkBeforeYouThrow®: Features a specialized team that educates the community through tours of the Recycling Center and Learning Center, presentations, educational materials and community events.

What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? Recycling practices have been consistently changing over the past decade. As the industry continued to evolve, American searched for ways to keep its customers informed and educated on each new change from equipment to best practices. They found the solution was to actively educate the community through their ThinkBeforeYouThrow outreach program, which not only educates customers on current recycling practices but also gets them excited about the changes.

LIFESTYLE

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Last January, American opened its single-stream recycling processing facility, The

American Recycling Center. The facility features a hands-on, attached Interactive Learning Center where ThinkBeforeYouThrow® outreach and education specialists host tours to all members of the community, regardless of hauler and free of charge.

SPORTS

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Paul Coury and Larry Edwards When was the business started? March 2000 Number of employees: 450 Brief description of business: American Disposal Services is the largest privately owned, family run, recycling and waste hauler in the region. The company is founded on quality service, community education, employee appreciation and family values. It is a leader in the promotion of green practices, actively educating the community through its ThinkBeforeYouThrow® outreach program. What makes your business unique? » Compressed Natural Gas Fleet: American was the first hauler in Northern Virginia to make

this change.

OPINION

10370 CENTRAL PARK DRIVE, MANASSAS VA 20110 Website: www.americandisposal.com

· Other Nominees ·

6897 GATEWAY COURT MANASSAS, 20109 Website: www.MyPlumber.com

Number of employees: 149 Brief description of business: My Plumber Heating and Cooling is committed to being the company of choice for our customers’ plumbing, heating, and air conditioning needs. We strive to exceed the expectations of our customers on every visit. We value our employees in an effort to make our company the best, inside and out. What makes your business unique? My Plumber is an unchallenged benchmark for quality, experience and rock-steady professionalism in our industry. We respond to our clients’ needs, diligently, quickly and honestly, with the highest regard for customer satisfaction.

What has been your biggest challenge to your business, and how have you overcome it? A shortage of qualified technicians is a serious concern for our industry; however, My Plumber Heating and Cooling has taken the initiative to start its own Plumbing Academy and Apprentice Program. In 2014 we had nine extraordinary graduates, all trained and vetted by our very own master plumbers. This is merely one of the ways we ensure our world-class technicians deliver exceptional quality of service every time they enter your home.

8700 SUDLEY ROAD, MANASSAS, 20110 Website: NovantHealth.org

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Melissa L. Robson, MSN, RN, MHA, President, Novant Health Northern Virginia market When was the business/organization started? 1964, Prince William Hospital opened; 2009, merged with Novant Health Number of employees: 1,400 Brief description of business: Novant Health is a four-state integrated network of physician practices, outpatient centers and hospitals that are nationally recognized for safety and quality. In Northern Virginia, our points of care extend across multiple counties to deliver a seamless and convenient healthcare experience. Novant Health is committed to making healthcare remarkable for patients and communities. What makes your business unique? Our people make our organization unique. It is the Novant Health team, our world-class clinicians, professionals and support staff, all whom share an undeniable passion to put patients first, always, and who serve to improve the health of our communities, one person at a time. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Our biggest accomplishment over the past year is meeting community needs by increasing access to points of care in order to make health care more convenient – most notably opening a new hospital in western Prince William County (Novant Health Haymarket Medical Center). What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? A challenge has been a lack of awareness for who we are today – a leading and integrated healthcare network offering a continuum of care. We are on a journey to overcome being recognized. One example is our new name and look, introduced in 2013, to better connect our locations.

www.insidenova.com • February 25, 2015

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Our cause marketing campaign has been one of the greatest highlights of 2014. We have successfully wrapped 14 of our vehicles to respectfully create autism awareness as well as veteran support. A portion of all revenue generated from these vehicles is donated to several local veteran support groups, as well as to organizations dedicated to autism awareness.

Novant Health

CLASSIFIED

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Wendell Preserve

BUSINESS

My Plumber Heating & Cooling

EDUCATION

PWT NEWS

Community Outreach

Winner Mike Garcia Construction Inc. 4320 PRINCE WILLIAM PARKWAY, SUITE 113 WOODBRIDGE 22192 Website: www.mikegarcia.com

When was the business started? 1981 Number of employees: 12 Brief description of business: Construction management, commercial, custom homes, remodeling (residential and commercial) What makes your business unique? Our ability to create win-win opportunities. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Acquiring the historic “Berkley Manor” at Evergreen Country Club so that we

BUSINESS

LIFESTYLE

SPORTS

OPINION

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Mike Garcia

Alpha Pets Inc. 4196 MERCHANT PLAZA, #123, WOODBRIDGE, 22192 Website: www.alphapetsinc.com

Imagine

ActionCOACH of Old Town Manassas

Owner/Chairman/ CEO: Jen Jones (Owner/Top Dog)

9415 WEST STREET MANASSAS, 20110

9116 CENTER STREET, SUITE 203, MANASSAS, 20110 Website: www.actioncoach.com/gerrypeters

When was the business started? February 2009

CLASSIFIED

When was the business started? March 2011 Number of employees: 1 Brief description of business: I coach business owners, executives, individuals and teams providing hope, education, growth, creation of wealth, recognition and increased quality of life. What makes your business unique? Our mission is to “Make every business successful to create a thriving community.” This company is involved in the community, from elementary to high school and after, from coaching individuals to teams in businesses, from individual athletes and sports teams. This company is a leader by example.

February 25, 2015 • www.insidenova.com

What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? Staying in business for 34 years through creativity, hard work and diversification.

· Other Nominees ·

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Gerry Peters

can restore it and create an 11-room bed and breakfast resort.

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? ActionCOACH teamed with three other organizers to start 1 Million Cups Prince William, a weekly meeting where an entrepreneur gives a short presentation about their business and presents a challenge for the audience to provide possible solutions, an innovative application of crowd-sourcing. The application of the solutions will provide more sustainable business success and strengthen the local economy. What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? The numerous community activities I’m involved in have posed a time challenge. To overcome the challenge I’ve had to follow my coaching advice to clients regarding time management: define the challenge, identify the priorities, focus on the goals and get the results.

Brief description of business: Alpha Pets offers comprehensive pet care services, including pet sitting, dog walking, dog training and behavioral counseling. We also provide care for special needs animals, including but not limited to medication administration and injections. What makes your business unique? Alpha Pets is owned and operated by a licensed veterinary technician who also has a master's degree in animal science from Cornell University. All of our staff regularly participate in ongoing training and educational opportunities, and they are all Pet First Aid and CPR certified. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? In 2014, we started a not-for-profit division that trains and places assistance dogs with individuals who need them. We also provide therapy dogs who work in hospitals, nursing homes, libraries, schools and even funeral homes. What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? Our biggest challenge has always been saying good-bye to the animals we love when it is time for them to cross The Rainbow Bridge. We will never overcome this challenge. Our clients, their pets and our staff are all part of a big family, and we deal with loss and grief together as a family.

Website: www.imaginedc.net

· Other Nominees ·

P.O. BOX 351, MANASSAS, 20108 Website: www.InsideNoVa.com

Prince William Living 4491 CHESHIRE STATION PLAZA, #55, DALE CITY, 22193 Website: www.pwliving.com

When was the business/organization started? 2010 Number of employees: 10

What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? Getting traction in a crowded media landscape. We overcome by being involved in our community, building relationships and staying true to our mission.

What sets your business apart? In a word, quality. Our reporters and editors have decades of experience living in and covering the community, and this is reflected in our unrivaled coverage of major local issues. In addition, the paper’s tabloid-style format, with full color on every page, is easy to read and gives advertisers more “bang for their buck” by avoiding clutter. What are you most proud of having accomplished over the past year? In April 2014, Prince William Today was named the best large weekly newspaper in the state by the Virginia Press Association, and reporter Aileen Streng received the VPA’s top award for feature writing. What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? The biggest challenge remains building name recognition in the community. Community outreach is an important part of growing our brand, and we’re proud of the support we have provided through the Salvation Army Christmas Basket program, the Prince William Spelling Bee, and the Hoops Fest.

BUSINESS

PLUMBING & ROOTER

*Weather permitting. For priority service calls only.

HEATING & COOLING

Until 9:00pm Monday-Friday 6:00pm Saturday-Sunday

www.insidenova.com • February 25, 2015

703-656-2195

7 DAYS A WEEK

CLASSIFIED

Locally founded, owned & operated

Financing Available

LIFESTYLE

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Encouraging our readers to volunteer their time, money or voice to help further our mission. By giving of ourselves, we gain — by increasing our own fulﬁllment, making new friends and helping our community to thrive.

Brief description of business: Prince William Today is a weekly newspaper distributed to 27,000 households throughout the county and provides comprehensive coverage of local news, features, sports and events and connects local businesses with potential customers.

SPORTS

What makes your business unique? Our staff, contributors and advertisers stand behind our mission, not just with words, but with action. We actively volunteer at not-for-profits, participate in the arts, support education and workforce development, focus local economics and buy local.

Number of Employees: 10

OPINION

Brief description of business: Prince William Living is more than just a magazine. It’s the desire to celebrate the positive things in our community and to inspire our neighbors to improve the quality of life here in Prince William County, Manassas and Manassas Park.

Business Started: January 2013

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Alice Mergler, Co-Founder & Executive Director, Keeyana Logan, Co-Founder & Vice President When was the organization started? August 2014 Number of employees: 2 Brief description of organization: The NEW School is a nonprofit that provides engaging youth programs and services through our three program pillars - neighborhood engagement, education enhancement, and workforce development - to help prepare youth to be productive in a growing technological world, and to utilize their gained skills to enrich life within their communities. What makes your organization unique? The NEW School boasts a comprehensive, fun learning environment that targets a variety of interests for youth during after-school hours. Members receive valuable instruction from experts in the fields of STEM, arts and robotics through learning modules and labs designed to prepare them for a technology-based workforce and promote civic engagement. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Being nominated for the 2015 Prince William County Chamber Business Awards. Having been in business for a brief amount of time and being very supported by other Chamber members, businesses, partners and friends has been an enjoyable experience. What has been the biggest challenge to your business/ organization and how have you overcome it? Our biggest challenge has been ensuring that we can open our doors on time by the summer of 2015. As with many nonprofits, fundraising for construction and capital improvements has been challenging, but we are sure that with continued support and delivery of our mission, we will overcome those challenges.

EDUCATION

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Rebecca Barnes

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Bruce Potter, Chief Operating Officer; Kari Pugh, Editor

9108 CHURCH STREET MANASSAS Website: www.newschoolinc.org

PWT NEWS

Prince William Today

The NEW School Inc.

LIFESTYLE

SPORTS

OPINION

EDUCATION

PWT NEWS

Tech Company of the Year

Winner Imagine 9415 WEST STREET, MANASSAS, 20110 Website: www.imaginedc.net

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Although we’ve always had a big place in our hearts for community involvement, we finally made it official with this year’s launch of the Imagine Better Project. The project actively promotes pro bono work, volunteerism and fundraising for non-profits. Our site at www.imaginebetterproject.org showcases the causes we've helped.

cession really tested our business. However, at our greatest moment of need, a magical Viking who ascended from the heavens on a unicorn saved us. Just kidding. We found strength in partnerships and focusing our attention on what’s important – building a strong team and building a reputation based on results.

What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? The re-

· Other Nominees ·

CLASSIFIED

BUSINESS

Number of employees: 400

ATCC (American Type Culture Collection) 10801 UNIVERSITY BOULEVARD, MANASSAS 20110 Website: www.atcc.org

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Dr. Raymond Cypess, Chairman & CEO

February 25, 2015 • www.insidenova.com

When was the organization started? 1925

High Purity Systems Inc. 8432 QUARRY ROAD, MANASSAS, 20110 Website: www.HighPurity.com

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Jody Ralston, President and CEO; Doug Barefoot, Vice President When was the business started? February 1985 Number of employees: More than 20 Brief description of business: High Purity Systems Inc. (HPS) is a woman-owned mechanical contractor

Brief description of organization: ATCC is the premier global biological materials resource and standards organization, maintaining the world’s largest and most diverse collection of human, animal, and plant cell lines, as well as molecular genomic tools, microorganisms, and biological products manufactured under ISO 9001:2008 certification and ISO/IEC 17025:2005 accreditation. What makes your organization unique? Every day, global scientists and researchers leverage ATCC’s expansive collection of cell lines, microorganisms, cellular and microbial panels, native and synthetic nucleic acids, biological products, and associated derivatives to generate quality research and reproducible results to further discoveries toward the improvement of health, the food supply, drug development and more. ATCC biological materials are often incorporated as standards required established in 1985. Having experience in every phase of the mechanical contracting industry, HPS specializes in process piping work in the industrial sector. Our fabrication facility provides national fabrication services and fabricated assemblies for installations by our on-site field personnel. What makes your business/organization unique? HPS is unique in its expertise for welding in the bio-pharmaceutical, semiconductor and aerospace industries. Have you ever needed a vaccine or had a flu shot? HPS welds the stainless steel tubes that connect the bioreactors and other equipment that the pharmaceutical industry uses to create these vaccines. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? With the demand for industrial piping fabrication growing, in 2014 HPS implemented two new welding technologies. One is a Semi-Automatic Orbital Weld-

by global regulatory agencies, including the FDA and USDA. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? ATCC’s greatest accomplishment is the development and global launch of new products that will continue to drive academic research and drug discovery, ensure the quality of diagnostics and pharmaceuticals, and help secure the safety of the food supply. Products launched this year include novel cell lines, synthetic DNA, and ATCC Minis, a new format for microbial standards. What has been the biggest challenge to your organization and how have you overcome it? ATCC’s greatest challenge is ensuring continued relevance of the existing and future portfolio in the ever-changing and complex world of biological sciences through a solid understanding of scientific and global market trends in the diverse segments that ATCC serves. ing system and the other is Regulated Metal Deposition (RMD™) MIG welding process. These new technologies increase productivity and enhance our ability to meet project deadlines and quality requirements. What has been the biggest challenge to your business/ organization and how have you overcome it? Our biggest challenge is finding highly skilled welders. We currently overcome this challenge with internal training programs. HPS has successfully hired high school graduates with welding experience and trained them to weld to the specifications required by our unique industry niche. We are excited about Prince William County Schools’ CTE Welding Program at Potomac High School.

· Other Nominees · Owner/Chairman/CEO: John Jewell When was the business started? 2002 Number of employees: 20 Brief description of business: JTC Inc. is a managed service provider headquartered in Manassas servicing Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and West Virginia. JTC is a private cloud provider, with our JTCowed infrastructure housed in a local data center.

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? JTC has deployed multiple SANs throughout the

inspire them to continue to pursue STEM education in high school, college and the workforce by collaborating with schools, businesses and community organizations.

NORTHERN VIRGINIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE 9485 INNOVATION DRIVE, MANASSAS, 20110 Website: www.nvcc.edu/systemic

What makes your organization unique? The ability to collaborate among corporations, school divisions, chambers of commerce and higher education to uniquely engage students in meaningful STEM experiences that continue to engage them into college and into the workforce.

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Amy Harris, Director When was the organization started? 2010 Number of employees: 11

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Winning the 2014 Governor’s Award for Science Innovation

LIFESTYLE

Brief description of organization: SySTEMic Solutions is Northern Virginia Community College’s STEM outreach program. The SySTEMic Solutions mission is to develop a sustainable STEM pipeline in Northern Virginia. We engage students in elementary school and

finding resources is always challenging. Thanks to a number of corporate sponsorships, we have been able to expand programming to reach additional students.

SPORTS

SySTEMic Solutions - Northern VA Community College

OPINION

9720 CAPITAL COURT, SUITE 305, MANASSAS, 20110 Website: www.jtcinc.net

What makes your business/organization unique? JTC Inc. is focused on customer service and managing your company network as if it were our own, saving our clients valuable time by eliminating down-time and proactively correcting any network issues before they create down-time.

EDUCATION

Jewell Technical Consulting Inc. (JTC Inc.)

What has been the biggest challenge to your business/ organization and how have you overcome it? JTC’s biggest challenge has been getting the information into clients’ hands about the private cloud technology. We have overcome this by educating our clientele on the differences of the cloud solutions available.

PWT NEWS

past year to increase productivity and uptime for our clients.

What has been the biggest challenge to your organization and how have you overcome it? We want to expand programs to include additional students, but

BUSINESS

Neighbor’s Keeper staff and volunteers wish to express our sincere gratitude to the members of organizations listed below who have made Neighbor’s Keeper nomination for the Anges Colgan Community Service Award possible.

CLASSIFIED

Community Educator to Healthcare Consumers www.neighbors-keeper.org

Richard J. Nagel Executive Director Georgetown South Community Council

Q Integrative Healthcare Consulting

Beacon for Adult Literacy

Get Covered America

Rising Hope Mission Church

Be Thrifty-the Super Store

Haymarket Gainesville Business Association

Saint Thomas United Methodist Church

Boys and Girls Clubs of Prince William

Heritage Hunt Giving Circle

Salvation Army

Hispanic Institute for Blindness Prevention

Stratford University

House of Mercy

Street Light Community Outreach Ministry

Manassas Central Public Library

The Skill Source Group, Inc.

Northern Virginia Taxpayer Resource Center

Town of Dumfries

Northern Virginia Family Services

Travis and Associates, Inc.

Partnership for Healthy Kids

Virginia Department of

Gainesville Haymarket Rotary Club

Prince William Today

Health Prince William District

Prince William Living

Virginia Consumer Voices for Healthcare

George Mason Enterprise Center

Prince William Chamber of Commerce

Virginia Poverty Law Center

Greater Prince William Coalition

Prince William County Department of

Volunteer Prince William

For Human Services

Social Services

Young Invisibles

Center for Budget Priorities Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Cooperative Council of Ministries Common Wealth Institute Comcast Channel 3 Panorama Latino Enroll Virginia

www.insidenova.com • February 25, 2015

1 Million Cups

LIFESTYLE

SPORTS

OPINION

EDUCATION

PWT NEWS

2015 Agnes Colgan Community Service Awards - Health & Human Services

Winner Prince William Drop-In Center Inc. (Trillium Drop-In Center) 13184 CENTERPOINTE WAY, WOODBRIDGE, 22193 Website: www.TrilliumDropInCenter.org

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Ann Gurtler, President, Trillium Board of Directors; Cynthia Dudley, Executive Director When was the organization started? 2007 Number of employees: 12 Brief description of organization: Trillium is a peer-led, non-profit for adults that promotes and encourages recovery from serious mental illness. Our facility offers support that includes various activities that provide opportunities to encour-

age personal growth. We empower people to live a meaningful life while managing the challenges of their mental illness. What makes your organization unique? Our focus on mental health recovery. Trillium is the only peer support center for mental health in Prince William County. We see people who come from various types of backgrounds and encourage connections between our members. We have the unique ability to help everyone feel welcome and emotionally safe while encouraging mental health recovery. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Trillium was recently interviewed for NBC News and expects to be featured soon on NBC’s “Changing Minds” segment. Last year, our executive director and a senior facilitator presented at a conference at the United Nations on self-help groups working with professionals, a project we were involved in for several years.

ANN GURTLER

What has been the biggest challenge to your business/organization and how have you overcome it? Emotional safety is critical in mental health recovery. We had to figure out how to create it for our members when they all come from very diverse backgrounds. We listened carefully and observed people’s needs and created a very comprehensive code of conduct for all of our staff and members.

February 25, 2015 • www.insidenova.com

CLASSIFIED

BUSINESS

· Other Nominees ·

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) 9384 FORESTWOOD LANE, MANASSAS, VA 20110 Website: www.casacis.org

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Charlyn Hasson-Brown, CEO When was the organization started? CASA was incorporated in 1993, began training advocates in 1994 for the 31st Judicial District of greater Prince William and began serving the 20th Judicial District, Fauquier, Loudoun and Rappahannock, in 2011. Number of employees: Nine paid staff and 160 unpaid advocates Brief description of organization: CASA provides specially trained advocates who are appointed to abused children’s cases by the court to insure the child will have the best possible outcomes including a safe and permanent home. What makes your organization unique? CASA is the only organization that, by Virginia Code, can be appointed to child victims of abuse and that is provided rights and privileges to access information to help with advocating for the child. CASA is regulated by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? 444 children were provided an advocate, 149 children’s cases were closed with permanency and 12 of those children, who could not safely return to their homes, were adopted and given a new safe, caring and permanent home. What has been the biggest challenge to your organization and how have you overcome it? Funding to provide advocates for every child needing one. The organization is funded entirely by grants and donations. Regulations require that we have a full-time supervisor for every 30 advocates and no advocate may have more than two children or sibling groups at one time. We work hard at raising money every day, in many ways.

Quilting 4 Kids ST. THOMAS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, MANASSAS

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Linda Harris is the driving force behind this group When was the organization started? In the 1950s. Number of employees: All volunteers, varying from year to year Brief description of organization: Making quilts for children in need as requested by groups who deal with children. What makes your organization unique? Quilting4Kids only makes quilts for kids. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Approximately 100 quilts were made last year. In addition, the organization participated in the Community Quilting Day, a day of quilt-making for charity and fellowship. What has been the biggest challenge to your organization and how have you overcome it? The lack of resources and money to buy fabric for quilt-making. Most of the fabric used is donated by the members of the group and/or their friends.

Dominion Woman’s Club 6457 WHITES MILL LANE, WARRENTON, 20187 Website: www.DominionWomansClub.org

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Suzanne Mitchell, President When was the organization started? February 2007 Number of employees: 45 volunteers Brief description of organization: Our club is intended for women over the age of 18 living in Prince William and Fauquier counties, with an interest in serving the needs of and enhancing our community. Our organization’s mission is to improve our community by enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service. We encourage our club members to improve their skills, expand their rights, and apply their abilities and special sensitivity to the problems of our community, our nation, and our world. What makes your organization unique? Dominion Woman’s Club supports 11 charitable organizations in our community. Our members are involved in a variety of volunteer efforts outside of our organization, such as churches, schools and businesses. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Expanding our volunteer efforts to support two more charities in the community, including Comfort Cases, which is chaired by a club member, and Serve Our Willing Warriors. In addition, we have streamlined our internal communication system to ensure smooth officer transition as well as increasing group volunteering at charity events. What has been the biggest challenge to your organization and how have you overcome it? The biggest challenge has been to ensure we are serving our charities in the most effective way possible. We have created a charity chair liaison whose purpose is to be in constant contact with our charity representatives, relay to our committees and ensure we have volunteers to fill needs. In addition, we are utilizing Constant Contact for our events to increase community visibility.

· Other Nominees · or severity of their disabilities, or any other distinguishing factor. We are grassroots — primarily people with disabilities serving people with disabilities.

8409 DORSEY CIRCLE, SUITE 101, MANASSAS, 20110 Website: www.ieccil.org

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? We continue to serve a growing number of individuals.

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Chairman of the Board — Ray Beverage; Executive Director — Dr. Mary Lopez When was the organization started? 1997 Brief description of organization: Assist people with disabilities to access needed resources, to ensure their civil rights and to enable them to continue to live independently in the community to the best of their abilities with the community support they need.

When was the organization started? 1984 Number of employees: 4

9500 TECHNOLOGY DRIVE, SUITE 101, MANASSAS, 20110 Website: www.pmahweb.org

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Jennifer Schock-Bolles

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Jeremy Harridath When was the organization started? 2009 Number of employees: 13 volunteer board members Brief description of organization: Friends of SERVE is a membership-driven organization dedicated to supporting the SERVE campus of Northern Virginia Family

MEETING LOCATION: CITY TAVERN AT OLD TOWNE INN 9403 MAIN STREET, MANASSAS Website: www.bullrunrotary.org

President: Gerald A. Peters When was the organization started? June 28, 1989 Number of members: 22 Brief description of organization: Rotary is an organization of business and professional leaders united worldwide who provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. What makes your organization unique? Rotary Inter-

national is the world’s first and oldest service organization and is best known for its efforts to eradicate polio. Our focus is to help our community grow and prosper through support of businesses and agencies that have high ethical standards in meeting needs and other projects which we can get our hands dirty, swing a hammer, throw a paintbrush, read a book or ring a bell. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Our contributions to our various charity partners: Rainbow Therapeutic Center, Habitat for HumanityPrince William, CASA-CIS, Calling all Souls, and BARN Transitional Housing. What has been the biggest challenge to your business/ organization and how have you overcome it? Our biggest challenges are that with so many other service organizations it is difficult to separate from the pack and get people to understand Rotary’s mission, and the commute and economy compete with increasing

dry in August. We alerted the community through social media and held a food drive at Philly Tavern in which we raised 336 pounds of food. The ultimate goal now is to prevent the situation from ever happening again.

demands on allocating time for work and family; it is difficult to get and retain members. To overcome these challenges, we have changed our approach for service activities to be more outwardly visible to the community which aligns with this year’s Rotary theme of “Light Up Rotary”.

www.insidenova.com • February 25, 2015

The Rotary Club of Manassas Bull Run

Services in its mission to improve quality of life in our community. What makes your organization unique? Friends of SERVE's mission is to raise awareness for SERVE and to inspire a whole new generation to get involved and give back. We do this in a fun way from making breakfasts at the shelter to hosting happy hours. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? We have engaged businesses in Prince William County to step up and raise money and/or food for SERVE. This was done through adding of donation verbiage on receipts at El Cactus in Manassas. Kamper Chiropractic even gave a free adjustment to anyone who brought in canned food for donation. There are more to come! What has been the biggest challenge to your organization and how have you overcome it? The biggest challenge and realization came when the pantry went

CLASSIFIED

10056 DEAN DRIVE, MANASSAS, 20110 Website: http://www.nvfs.org/friendsofserve

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past

BUSINESS

Friends of SERVE

LIFESTYLE

Project Mend-A-House

What makes your organization unique? Project MendA-House is the only organization in Prince William County that provides its services completely free. We specialize in smaller, home maintenance repairs that, if left unchecked, eventually lead to much larger, more expensive problems. Our clients come to us many times through the year for help with maintenance issues.

What has been the biggest challenge to your organization and how have you overcome it? In the past 18 months, Project Mend-A-House turned over its entire staff of four while also moving office and storage facilities twice. All while continuing to provide service to clients. We were able to overcome these challenges through the hard work and dedication of our volunteers, board members and staff.

SPORTS

Brief description of organization: Project Mend-AHouse helps residents of Prince William County, Manassas and Manassas Park live safely and independently in their homes by providing free home repair and maintenance, ramps and durable medical equipment (hospital beds, wheel chairs, stair climbers, personal emergency alert devices, and grab bars).

year? Our greatest accomplishment is the care we provide our clients. In July 2014, we had four active volunteers and a list of over 100 projects; six months later, we have over 20 active volunteers and have cut our project list in half. In the past six months, we have assisted 77 clients, a 202% increase over the same period last year.

OPINION

What makes your organization unique? We work with all people with disabilities no matter their ages, the kind

EDUCATION

Number of employees: 9

What has been the biggest challenge to your organization and how have you overcome it? It is not easy to have great name recognition when we work with such a diverse group of people. If we focused on one set disability, that one group would know us, but we work with people of such diverse disabilities that name recognition is hard to foster.

PWT NEWS

Independence Empowerment Center

OPINION

EDUCATION

PWT NEWS

2015 Agnes Colgan Community Service Awards - Arts & Education

Winner Literacy Volunteers of America – Prince William Inc. 4326 DALE BLVD, SUITE 6, WOODBRIDGE, 22193 Website: www.lvapw@aol.com

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Deborah Abbott, Executive Director Number of employees: 3 (Plus more than 225 volunteer tutors) Description of organization: The mission of LVA-PW is to teach adults the life-changing skills of reading, writing, and speaking English to enable them to participate and prosper in our society. LVA-PW is a committed advocate for a “whole-of-community” engagement by leveraging the use of volunteers in meeting the adult

What makes your organization unique? LVAPW is the largest adult literacy non-profit in the county and the only program offering yearround enrollment to adult learners. We offer the most comprehensive range of literacy services: ESOL, GED, basic reading and writing, conversation, citizenship, computer-training, and workforce literacy in large and small classroom settings and individual instruction. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? LVA-PW provided adult literacy services for a record 720 adult learners throughout Prince William County and recruited, professionally-trained and certified over 75 new vol-

unteer tutors. As a result of program expansion, we have helped more adults secure jobs, learn computer skills, attain citizenship and become self-sufficient members of the community. What has been the biggest challenge to your organization and how have you overcome it? The biggest challenge has been adapting to the challenges of the new computer-based GED exam. Our tutors were instrumental in redesigning and improving our program, helping our GED learners prepare for the new exam. We added more classes, integrated computer testtaking strategies and offered flexible schedules and more small group instruction.

February 25, 2015 • www.insidenova.com

CLASSIFIED

BUSINESS

LIFESTYLE

SPORTS

When was the business started: 1991

literacy needs in Prince William.

A Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) Superior Employees / Superior Quality / Superior Reputation

Innovative Reasoning provides superior and affordable Services and Solutions, a culture of excellence, and fiscal accountability in support of our Nation and Customers. Services Include: • Project Management Support • Acquisition, Engineering and Logistics Support • Training Analysis & Design • Range Operations • Requirements Analysis • Administrative Support

Thanks for nominating us! 17739 Main Street, Suite 320, Dumfries, VA 22026 • 540-242-5209

www.innovativereasoning.com | john.beiswanger@innovativereasoning.com

· Other Nominees ·

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Larry Kelly, President/CEO When was the business/organization started? 1956 Number of employees: 385

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY BRANCHES: HYLTON: 5070 DALE BOULEVARD, DALE CITY, 22193 MANASSAS: 9501 DEAN PARK LANE, MANASSAS, 20110 GENERAL HEISER: 17565 OLD STAGE COACH ROAD, DUMFRIES, 22026 Website: www.bgcgw.org/prince-william

Dominion Woman’s Club 6457 WHITES MILL LANE, WARRENTON, 20187 Website: www.DominionWomansClub.org

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Suzanne Mitchell, President When was the organization started? February 2007 Number of employees: 45 volunteers Brief description of organization: Our club is intended

Neighbor’s Keeper 10900 UNIVERSITY BLVD SUITE 147, GMU BULL RUN HALL, MANASSAS, 20110 Website: www.neighbors-keeper.org

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Richard J. Nagel, Executive Director When was the organization started? January 2013 Number of employees: 2 full-time, 5 part-time, and

SPARK, the Education Foundation for Prince William County Public Schools

achievement and enhance educational excellence. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization, and most currently brought in over $2.6 million in monetary and in-kind donations for the 2013-14 school year. What makes your organization unique? SPARK is the only nonprofit dedicated solely to serving all 94 schools within the school division. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? The expansion of the Virginia Student Training and Refurbishment (VA STAR) Program. Through the VA STAR program, students refurbish surplus hardware from state agencies or private companies. Once refurbished,

these computers are donated to families and organizations that are in need of a computer in Prince William County. The program is administered and coordinated through SPARK and the state. What has been the biggest challenge to your business/ organization and how have you overcome it? Maintaining funds and support for growing programs. SPARK is always in search for additional resources and support from businesses and organizations in the community, including partnerships with other non-profit organizations such as the Northern Virginia Community Foundation. With the support of the SPARK Board of Directors, SPARK advocates the success of programs that are strongly requested to continue at our schools by teachers, principals, and students.

P.O. BOX 389, MANASSAS, 20108 Website: www.poweredbyspark.org

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Executive Director, Sharon Henry When was the business/organization started? 1989 Number of employees: 6 Brief description of organization: SPARK, the Education Foundation for Prince William County Public Schools, has spent years working with PWCS to support student

www.insidenova.com • February 25, 2015

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? 2,002 lives were enrolled in health coverage among previously uninsured community members who now have access to healthcare previously unaffordable to them and to costly to their employers. What has been the biggest challenge to your business/organization and how have you overcome it? Neighbor’s Keeper faces the challenge of motivating people to think of themselves as healthcare consumers, requiring of them to learn and take personal responsibility for their health. Chamber members, civic and community leaders, health care providers, media representatives, and funders contributed to Neighbor’s Keeper overcoming this challenge.

CLASSIFIED

numerous volunteers Brief description of organization: Neighbor’s Keeper, a 501(c)3 education organization, is a community educator to healthcare consumers founded on expanding access to healthcare for individuals, employees, and employers under the provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). What makes your organization unique? Neighbor’s Keeper is the healthcare consumer advocate for patient and provider engagement fostering shared medical decision to instill ownership of one’s health.

BUSINESS

more charities in the community, including Comfort Cases, which is chaired by a club member, and Serve Our Willing Warriors. In addition, we have streamlined our internal communication system to ensure smooth officer transition as well as increasing group volunteering at charity events. What has been the biggest challenge to your organization and how have you overcome it? The biggest challenge has been to ensure we are serving our charities in the most effective way possible. We have created a charity chair liaison whose purpose is to be in constant contact with our charity representatives, relay to our committees and ensure we have volunteers to fill needs. In addition, we are utilizing Constant Contact for our events to increase community visibility.

LIFESTYLE

for women over the age of 18 living in Prince William and Fauquier counties, with an interest in serving the needs of and enhancing our community. Our organization’s mission is to improve our community by enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service. We encourage our club members to improve their skills, expand their rights, and apply their abilities and special sensitivity to the problems of our community, our nation, and our world. What makes your organization unique? Dominion Woman’s Club supports 11 charitable organizations in our community. Our members are involved in a variety of volunteer efforts outside of our organization, such as churches, schools and businesses. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Expanding our volunteer efforts to support two

SPORTS

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Pandit Wright, CEO When was the organization started? The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington was founded in 1886; the Prince William County clubs were opened in 1967. Number of employees: 20-30 in Prince William County Brief description of organization: The mission of Boys

OPINION

& Girls Clubs of Greater Washington is to help boys and girls of all backgrounds, especially those who need us most, build confidence, develop character and acquire the skills needed to become productive, civic-minded, responsible adults. What makes your organization unique? The Boys & Girls Clubs offer targeted high yield programs and activities and character-building experiences designed to help youth develop the skills needed to achieve academic success, lead healthy lifestyles and demonstrate good character and citizenship.

What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? We have expanded our programming to include more science, technology, engineering, arts and math (S.T.E.A.M.) programs and activities. We offer programs in Lego robotics, computer and tech, simple machines and mobile device repair. What has been the biggest challenge to your organization and how have you overcome it? The surrounding community has changed the way they give and engage with non-profit organizations; many donors and board members support multiple non-profits rather than just adopting one. The Boys & Girls Clubs has undertaken a collaborative approach to partnership and fundraising. We are seeking more opportunities to host joint fundraiser events with other non-profits and more ways that we can be co-applicants for grants.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington

EDUCATION

8700 CENTREVILLE ROAD, MANASSAS, 20110 Website: www.applefcu.org

year? In 2014, Apple’s Education Foundation raised more than $93,000 for charitable causes outside of the education realm, including the Children’s Miracle Network and the American Cancer Society. The Education Foundation will award a minimum of 30 $4,000 scholarships to deserving students who are graduating from high school in 2015. What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? The biggest challenge is balancing the demands of implementing new banking technology with the need for additional branches. We recognize having convenient branches is extremely important. In 2014, we opened our fourth Prince William location, in Gainesville, giving Apple the most credit union branches in Northern Virginia.

PWT NEWS

Apple Federal Credit Union

Brief description of business: Since 1956, Apple has been a not-for-profit, member-owned financial cooperative. Through a lifelong partnership with anyone touched by education, Apple FCU helps members achieve their dreams by offering competitive financial solutions, with dedicated personal service. We exist, not for profit, but for the benefit of our members. What makes your business unique? Each of Apple FCU’s members owns an equal share of the credit union, and because of this dynamic, all earnings are returned in the form of lower loan rates and higher dividend yields. Member deposits are insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), a federal government agency. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past

PWT NEWS

New Business of the Year

OPINION

EDUCATION

being able to work one on one with all the people who want to because there aren’t enough hours in the day. I’ve overcome that by creating an online PR University that gives people a digital course of what I would do and then group one-on-one calls with me every week.

Winner PR for Anyone

LIFESTYLE

SPORTS

14419 PRESIDENT’S LANDING WAY, GAINESVILLE 20155 Website: www.PRforAnyone.com

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Christina Daves When was the business started? 2014 Number of employees: 3 Brief description of business: We help small business owners gain exposure for their business so new customers can find them and they can establish credibility in their industry.

CHRISTINA DAVES

What makes your business unique? We have easy and effective tools to show business owners how to bring public relations in-house because most cannot afford a publicist. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? Clients who have been on national television, local television, in national and local magazines, newspapers, and radio. What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? Not

· Other Nominees ·

CLASSIFIED

BUSINESS

Pop-A-Lock of Northern Virginia 2805 PIPER GLENN CT DUMFRIES, 22026 Website: www.popalocknova.com

Owner/Chairman/CEO: Jeffrey Watson

HomeTowne Auto Repair and Tire of Woodbridge 15698 JEFFERSON DAVIS HIGHWAY, WOODBRIDGE, 22191 Website: www.HomeTowneTire.com

Owner/CEO: ST Billingsley When was the business started? November 2013

February 25, 2015 • www.insidenova.com

Number of employees: 9

Brief description of business: We are an automotive repair and tire shop, performing maintenance service from oil changes and flat tire repairs to checkengine light diagnostics and engine replacement. What makes your business/organization unique? We are involved with many community organizations from helping the homeless with supplies, to the Boy Scouts of America, high school automotive internship programs, and women’s car care clinics. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? We are now officially a Michelin, Cooper, and Toyo tire dealer. What has been the biggest challenge to your business/organization and how have you overcome it? Going from zero customers to an operating business in one year, competing in a tire market against the big box stores, working in and caring about our community has differentiated us from the bigger guys on the block.

When was the business/ organization started? February 2013 Number of employees: 3 Brief description of business: Pop-A-Lock of Northern Virginia is part of the largest locksmith franchise company in the nation. We are a mobile locksmith service for residential, commercial and automotive needs. From unlocking doors, cars, or safes to full installations and repairs of locking hardware, Pop-ALock can meet nearly any locksmithing challenge. What makes your business unique? We are a veteran-owned business that is truly a 24/7 operation. We also have a program called PAL Saves Kids, in which we will unlock cars for free if a child or pet is locked inside. What is your biggest accomplishment over the past year? We were able to reach our break-even point, even as we expanded to include Spotsylvania and Stafford Counties in our owned territories. What has been the biggest challenge to your business and how have you overcome it? We have to educate the public about our business and generate enough income to turn a profit. We do many networking and promotional events, as well as providing free Pop-A-Lock pens to the wait staff at many area restaurants.

AC PW Today Full Page Ad (Chamber) 2-25-15 $399_APC Best OF Tab 2/22/15 1:03 PM Page 1

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CLASSIFIED

Complete Satisfaction!

BUSINESS

In-House Delivery Staff!

LIFESTYLE

A Trusted Company For Over 29 Years! Local Family Owned and Operated! Price... The Best Overall! Largest Showroom In The Mid Atlantic! The Best Selection Of Brand Names! Factory Trained & Knowledgeable Staff! Special Financing Available!

SPORTS

Providing Customer Solutions You Can’t Find Anywhere Else!

OPINION

Ask About Our New Service Department!

EDUCATION

The entire staff at Appliance Connection would like to congratulate all the Prince William Chamber Award Nominee’s on their nomination for this years Prince William Chamber 2015 Business Award!

PWT NEWS

Congratulations!

We’ve Worked Hard To Earn Our Reputation. We’ll Work Even Harder To Keep It! ´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´´

Refrigerators

Ranges

Microwaves

WATER FILTERS!

Appliance Connection carries Replacement Water Filters for EVERY major brand of refrigerator!

APPLIANCE CONNECTION 2014 BEST OF PRINCE WILLIAM

THE PLACE TO BUY APPLIANCES

Just Off The Prince William Parkway Behind The Red Lobster Restaurant

Call Us Today At: 703 492-7283

Monday-Friday 9AM-8PM / Saturday 9AM-5PM / Sunday 1PM-5PM

Questions!

Please call us to speak to one of our professionals!

703 492-7283

www.insidenova.com • February 25, 2015

Washers & Dryers Dishwashers Cooktops

EASY IN-STORE FINANCING AVAILABLE!

PWT NEWS EDUCATION OPINION SPORTS LIFESTYLE BUSINESS CLASSIFIED

It’s not just about having the top nurses, doctors and technology. It’s about having them work together for you. Healthcare can be chaotic and confusing. So bringing together world-class clinicians, medical expertise and technology across hundreds of care locations is essential. Making them all work

February 25, 2015 • www.insidenova.com

together to work for you — that’s remarkable.

Visit us at NovantHealth.org to learn more