Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine February 2018

F E B R U A RY 2 0 1 8

Influenced by Words BRISTOW AUTHOR MICHAEL THOMPSON

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

LOVE IS IN THE AIR...

Valentine’s inspired relationship tips, gift ideas, recipes, and wine selections from local experts

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the GAINESVILLE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

from the E D I T O R

PUBLISHER DENNIS BRACK FOR PIEDMONT PUBLISHING GROUP DENNIS@PIEDMONTPUB.COM

It’s the middle of January as I write the editor’s note, and the weather is cold cold cold! I’ve heard we might have a snowy February, so curl up with Lifestyle Magazine.

Let’s hope Valentine’s Day is cheerful weather! We’ve got you covered for that… maybe plan a nice dinner at home with Chef Dennis Buettner’s recipe for Seared Scallops and Tenderloin Steaks with Manhattan Sauce, a delicious creme brûlée recipe from Simply Desserts for dessert, and some wine suggestions by Mark Luna, a new wine writer for Piedmont Lifestyle.

Love comes in all sorts of forms, and this issue celebrates all sorts of loves, not just for our significant other but also for our families and community.

Christine Craddock shows us a Haymarket writer’s book about empowering our daughters as they grow up, and Compassion Airlift out of Manassas Airport helps the disabled, veterans, and special needs children with air transportation.

Don’t forget to follow us online (piedmontlifestyle.com) and on social media (facebook.com/PiedmontLifestylePublications) for additional stories and local information.

EDITORIAL PAM KAMPHUIS EDITOR@PIEDMONTPUB.COM

ADVERTISING JIM KELLY: JIM@PIEDMONTPUB.COM, 434-987-3542 CINDY MCBRIDE: CINDY@PIEDMONTPUB.COM, 540-229-6038

ART ART DIRECTOR: KARA THORPE KARA@PIEDMONTPUB.COM

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EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICE THE GAINESVILLE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE C/O PIEDMONT PUBLISHING GROUP MAILING ADDRESS: PO BOX 3632, WARRENTON, VA. 20188 PHYSICAL ADDRESS: 11 CULPEPER ST., WARRENTON, VA. 20186 540-349-2951 WWW.PIEDMONTLIFESTYLE.COM THE GAINESVILLE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY AND DISTRIBUTED TO OVER 8,000 SELECTED ADDRESSES. WHILE REASONABLE CARE IS TAKEN WITH ALL MATERIAL SUBMITTED TO THE GAINESVILLE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE, THE PUBLISHER CANNOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE TO ANY SUCH MATERIAL. OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN ARTICLES ARE STRICTLY THOSE OF THE AUTHORS. WHILE ENSURING THAT ALL PUBLISHED INFORMATION IS ACCURATE, THE PUBLISHER CANNOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY MISTAKES OR OMISSIONS. REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR PART OF ANY OF THE TEXT, ILLUSTRATION OR PHOTOGRAPH IS STRICTLY FORBIDDEN. ©2017 PIEDMONT PUBLISHING GROUP.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS CHRISTINE CRADDOCK · DEBBIE EISELE LYNNE GALLUZZO · ANDREAS KELLER · STEVE OVIATT COLBY SCHRECKENGOST · CHARLOTTE WAGNER PRINCE WILLIAM LIBRARY STAFF · PAM KAMPHUIS NOVANT HEALTH · DENISE ANDREWS · PATRICK ENNIS TERRI AUFMUTH STEVENS · MARK LUNA · ANDREW HORAN

PAM KAMPHUIS

EDITOR

Charles Rose is a seasoned property expert. His diverse background and relaxed approach make for easy conversation, whether you’re interested in home-buying, selling or commercial property.

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Talk to Charlie today.

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Contents 06

Fast Action is Necessary for Heart Attacks

20 24

08

Love is in the Air and Wine is on the Table

HGBA Spotlight

26

BY NOVANT HEALTH

Corey Baden, Baden Contracting

BY MARK LUNA

Valentine’s Dessert Recipe

10

Creme Brûlée

Influenced

by Words

BY MOLLY MANAGAN, SIMPLY DESSERTS

Bristow author Michael Thompson

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BY DEBBIE EISELE

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Adjust Your Crown Haymarket author on empowering young ladies

BY CHRISTINE CRADDOCK

Compassion Airlift Help when you need it most

BY PAM KAMPHUIS

33 & 35 Special Section:

20

Private Schools & Summer Camps

Nothing but Love

34

Giving meaning to Valentine’s Day

BY CHRISTINE CRADDOCK

22

Valentine’s Recipe

Planting Peas Now is the time

BY DEBBIE EISELE

36

A Dream Maker

Seared Scallops and Tenderloin Steaks

Sunny Reynold’s Biotrek Adventure Travels

BY DENNIS BUETTNER

BY AIMÉE O’GRADY

ON THE Bristow author Michael

cover

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Thompson. Photo by Kara Thorpe

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UVA Health System Prince William Medical Center, where door-to-balloon time — the time it takes to restore blood flow to the patient — is well below national averages.

“This type of heart attack has to be managed in a short amount of time because you have a large amount of muscle that’s dying by the minute,” said Masters’ cardiovascular disease specialist, Dr. Ara Maranian, leader for heart and vascular services for Novant Health UVA Health System. “The faster you open the vessel, the better the prognosis.”

“The faster… the better” Fast action on a heart attack can make all the difference

BY NOVANT HEALTH

I

t started with just a little bit of chest pain — insignificant enough that Melinda Masters thought it was nothing more than a twinge of asthma.

So she took an aspirin at the kitchen sink and headed to the shower to get ready for a special screening of the new “Star Wars” movie with her family. But when she raised her arms to shampoo her hair, the pain magnified.

“This was the worst pain I’ve ever experienced,” said Masters, a veteran of horseback riding injuries and a serious automobile accident. “I might be more aware of pain than other people, and I have a very,

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very high tolerance for pain.

But I don’t know how you could deny this pain.”

Masters stepped out of the shower and told her husband — quite calmly — to call 911. At the age of 48, she was having a heart attack.

Her diagnosis: ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, or STEMI, an acute type of heart attack that happens when a blood clot completely blocks a coronary artery.

Masters’ heart was saved by her quick reaction and a Novant Health UVA Health System protocol that ensures physicians read EKG results in less than three minutes. She was treated at Novant Health

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Young, healthy and caught off guard You would never call Masters a typical candidate for a heart attack, Maranian said. She exercised daily and followed a healthy diet. She wasn’t overweight. Her only risk factors were genetics — her mother, brother and uncle have had heart attacks — and a history as a smoker.

In fact, because of her genetics, Masters sought the care of a cardiologist in early 2016. She was prescribed daily aspirin to stave off a heart attack. Months before she felt that first STEMI spasm in her chest, she had received word that if she followed her aspirin regimen, the doctor did not foresee her having a heart attack given her stress test results.

“To say that the heart attack caught me off guard is a huge understatement,” Masters said.

But as the pain that December afternoon worsened, she mined her experience as a former fire and rescue volunteer to remain calm (she even practiced meditative breathing during the ambulance ride) and, most

importantly, to recognize her pain — and react to it.

Maranian said far too many people ignore or try to ride out their pain. And it’s not worth the gamble.

“If you think it’s your heart and you’re wrong, it’s no big deal,” he said. “If it’s the other way around, you might die or bear permanent damage that affects your overall lifestyle after the fact.”

Life after a STEMI Masters has completed her post-surgery rehabilitation and is back at the gym with her kids, trying to teach them about balanced workouts that include strength training as well as cardio for good heart health.

She does wear out more easily now, and she says she has had to set a new “100 percent performance” standard for herself. She knows that if she has a busy Tuesday, for instance, she needs to slow down on Wednesday. She works with a nutritionist at Prince William Medical Center to learn more about proteinrich, balanced meals that fuel her body steadily throughout the day.

With continued care and monitoring, her body will perform like it did before the STEMI, Maranian said.

And with younger and younger patients experiencing heart attacks, Maranian said Masters sets a good example for anyone who notices chest pain: stay calm and act fast.

“If you get in really quickly and you can open the vessel, you can actually walk away with no damage to your heart,” he said.

To learn more about Novant Health UVA Health System heart and vascular services, visit NovantHealthUVA.org/heart. ❖

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read & HGBA MEMBER

greet When and why did you decide to join this company/firm? OR When and why did you decide to start your own company?

I started my company in July of 2010 because I wanted to give people a one-stop-shop contractor.

I am able to provide all types of remodeling to my clients, whether it is as simple as cleaning gutters or a full remodel of a home. We are class A licensed and fully capable of making our clients dreams com true.

How does your business serve the local community?

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We serve all our clients with professionalism and donate time to charities like Project Mend a House.

Please share one of the greatest moments you’ve experienced in your current profession.

When I won the outstanding professional service award through the Prince William Chamber of Commerce.

Tell us about your experience with the HGBA. How has it supported you in your local business?

It’s been great meeting new people.

What are the top three business tips and tricks can you offer other professionals?

Be yourself Always make family time Create a strong team

Are you from this area?

If not, what brought you here and what do you like about our town?

I grew up in Haymarket and it is hard to see the small town that I remember change so much. With that being said I am glad to see Haymarket and Gainesville thriving and providing more opportunities for the community so we don't have to always go into Manassas or Fairfax to go shopping.

What is your favorite season in this area, and why?

Spring and summer. I enjoy the warmth and the scent of fresh-cut grass.

What are some hobbies you enjoy?

Riding horses, riding motorcycles, and traveling in our RV.

What is your favorite restaurant?

Seasons 52 in Tysons

What is your favorite local high school sports team?

I went to Stonewall High School, but my brotherin-law plays baseball for Osbourn Park so I have been rooting for them.

Are you involved with any nonprofits? If so, which one(s) and why?

Prince William county and the surrounding counties have given me so much that I wanted to give back.

I contribute to Project Mend a House to provide people with repairs to their home with quality work that they normally might not be able to afford.

What was your first job, or your most interesting job prior to your current profession?

My first job was working for Haymarket Grocery.❖

The Haymarket Gainesville Business Association was established in 1990 and is the premier association supporting business and community involvement in the Haymarket-Gainesville area. They offer a forum for information sharing and contribute to community projects that positively impact businesses and residents. Want to learn more? Visit www.HGBA.biz

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Influenced by Words Author Michael Thompson shares his love of vocabulary and prose STORY BY DEBBIE EISELE PHOTOS BY KARA THORPE

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M

ichael Thompson, a 23 year old from Bristow, has been spreading his love of storytelling right here in in our area. For the past two years, he has participated in YABBA Fest (Young Adult Books Bands and Authors), an annual event started in October of 2016 in Warrenton. During the festival Michael provided book signings, readings and panel discussions for locals and visitors to enjoy. He is involved in planning the 2018 YABBA Fest with Allegro Community School of the Arts. He visits his old elementary

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“I doubted myself and this book is about conquering self-doubt” school in Nokesville annually to speak with students as a way to give back and empower the next generation of writers.

But, there is much more to Thompson than his involvement in promoting literacy. He is a published author of four books. “I have been telling stories since I could hold a crayon,” he shared. “The Chicken Boy series was my first dabble into publishing and the character was actually created when I was 9 years old.”

When he was just 13 years old, Thompson published his first illustrated

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chapter book: Chicken Boy and the Wrath of Dr. Dimwad, and formed his own publishing company, Thompson Original Productions LLC. The inspiration for the company name and the drive to write came from one particular teacher: “Every time I brought my 4th grade teacher, Mr. Charles Aracich at T. Clay Wood Elementary School in Nokesville, a new story or picture...he would say, ‘Oh, a new Thompson original.’” Thompson shared, “He inspired me and said to never stop writing Chicken Boy.” The journey from writing and illustrating to publishing wasn’t easy but Thompson had support along the way.

“My parents were a big help. Legally I was too young to operate a business on my own, so my mom became my manager and my dad, my editor,” Thompson said. “Getting published was a nice personal validation for me.

Writing was something I was doing naturally and would have done really no matter what. It was very fulfilling to have my work on the bookshelf in the stores.” Initially, Thompson’s work appeared on Border’s shelves and then, about a year later, at Barnes & Noble.

Thompson’s most personally treasured work to date is World of the Orb, released in October 2016. The author began conceptualizing this book as far back as fourth grade and through middle school, but truly began writing the story while in high school. Although his attention was split between writing, illustrating, school, and a social life, Thompson nourished his writing skills as he matured.

One of the underlying messages of World of the Orb is conquering selfdoubt, which spoke to him personally as he was writing it. “I knew World of the Orb was something special from the beginning, so I felt an enormous sense of responsibility to tell the story right,” said Thompson. “My main character is so humble that he’s unwittingly sabotaging moments when he could be brave. His journey into this new world unlocks powers he didn’t know he had, which is reflective of one of the story’s primary themes: the humble will be exalted.”

This literary work is a portal fantasy and Thompson’s creative ideas for the

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book came to him while he doodled in class. “I drew many creatures and knew I wouldn’t be able to write a story about each one, but I knew they all needed a place to live. So I created an environment; I drew many maps on the back of worksheets until I arrived at the one I used in the book,” shared Thompson. He even developed continents and biomes to include in this fictional world. Thompson described portal fantasy as “the reverse of urban fantasy, which was most popular to write at that point in time and noted by the likes of Percy Jackson and Harry Potter.”

Details were not overlooked by Thompson. He even developed an entire language for the book called Trymbadorian, which also included its very own alphabet, and wrote in terrestrial words. “You can see a little bit of it [language] on the cover; it’s etched in the rim of the Orb’s silver stand,” he shared. “There is an inclination in fantasy writing to avoid terrestrial words, meaning when fantasy authors write, especially in the first person, they can’t have their characters comparing their experiences and what they’re seeing to earthly things. This is what makes

World of the Orb unique.” He explained the environment he created in this book is otherworldly, but because the main character is from Earth, he wrote everything clearly for the reader, in earthly terms. “It’s very exciting in that sense; I think it helps the imagery of the world fully come to life for the reader. I don’t want readers to do any work while they are reading. I want them [the reader] right behind the main character’s eye: to see, sense, feel what the character does.”

In the spring of 2016, Thompson graduated from George Mason University, magna cum laude, and completed writing World of the Orb. “As soon as I graduated I was able to pour myself into the completing the book with same rigor and schedule I kept to in college,” noted Thompson. Yet while he was in college, Thompson’s fiction writing professor Laura Scott, a professor and author, mentored and had a positive influence on him: “She helped with ideas on how to balance work and school, and offered a great deal of advice.”

Scott, who typically provided feedback to classmates in the form of

Thompson received a great amount of insipiration from his great grandfather, published author, Lawrence Schoonover. “To see that it (writing) could be done and was done by someone in my family before me is amazing. Schoonover’s work was translated into multiple languages, and was required reading in colleges. The Spider King (seen above) was even dedicated to my grandmother.”

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“writing is in my blood”

Top: Michael participated on a panel during YABBA Fest 2016 and 2017. Bottom: As the featured author, Michael spoke about the Chicken Boy series at T. Clay Wood Elementary School’s Literacy Night. Photo taken by Principal Andrew Buchheit. Photos courtesy of Michael Thompson.

Scholastic Grant Thompson applied for a scholastic grant late in 2017. If awarded, this grant will enable Thompson to create audio versions of his stories which he will personally narrate so individuals with reading and vision difficulties will be able to enjoy the stories he creates.

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a compliment sandwich (positive comments, areas of improvement, followed by more positive remarks), was at first speechless after Thompson concluded his reading. She eventually said, “That sounded like professional fiction. It sounds like someone who has been writing for 40 years. I have no suggestions on how to improve the scene.”

Thompson admitted there were other authors who influenced his passion for storytelling: Brian Jacques (a high fantasy fiction writer – shield and sword style) and his greatgrandfather Lawrence Schoonover (a historical fiction writer). Jacques’ Red Wall series in particular captured Thompson’s interest, and World of the Orb was dedicated to Schoonover.

“Vocabulary is beautiful and introduces words many people have never heard before. Both Jacques and

my great grandfather use vocabulary brilliantly. The thing I love about the English language is there is a word for everything,” said Thompson. “Brian Jacques has a saying I really admire: ‘As much as there are words in poetry; there is a poetry in words.’”

Both authors’ use of vocabulary appealed to and influenced Thompson: “The fun in Jacques’ words and the rhythm of sentences in Schoonover’s works were compelling.” Thompson also mentioned he never met his great grandfather; he only knew him through his work. “Writing is in my blood,” he shared. In honor of the ancestral influence, Thompson named the fictional high school in World of the Orb after his great grandfather; the name of the school comes from a family name of Van Schoonhoven, which changed when the family arrived at Ellis Island.

Schoonover’s work provided a spiritual guide for Thompson: “To see that it (writing) could be done and was done by someone in my family before me is amazing. Schoonover’s work was translated into multiple languages, and was required reading in colleges. The Spider King was even dedicated to my grandmother.” Schoonover’s literary work spans from 1948-1973.

With an innate talent for art and storytelling, Thompson has proven himself an author on his own merits.

This youthful writer has enthralled readers and will do so for decades to come. His journey will continue with the creation of a new urban fantasy and adventure story, and World of the Orb part two. For more information on upcoming book signings and release dates, visit his website (worldoftheorb. com). You may also find Thompson’s World of the Orb on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. ❖

Fictional works by Michael Thompson Chicken Boy Series. Chicken Boy and the Wrath of Dr. Dimwad, Chicken Boy and the Destruction of the Doggy Doo Doo Demons, and Chicken Boy and the Fight of the Ferocious Flower. This series includes illustrated chapter books geared towards elementary aged students. The third book in this trilogy was released in 2011 and Thompson has plans for releasing additional books in this series.

World of the Orb. This portal fantasy geared towards young adults, provides creative, descriptive prose and incredible imagery. Watch for a release of World of the Orb part two in the future.

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Adjust Your Crown

Local author on EMPOWERING young ladies

BY CHRISTINE CRADDOCK

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GAINESVILLE LIFESTYLE

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BY CHRISTINE CRADDOCK

D

ionda Fugitt is still humbled and in awe that she can add “published author” to her list of accomplishments. Her book Adjust Your Crown: The Little Ladies’ Secret Handbook was listed on Amazon’s top 100 children’s books list for the first six months after she self-published and released it in 2016. A lifelong Virginian, Fugitt is a relatively new resident of Haymarket, along with her husband/ best friend Victor and their two daughters Sa’Niyah and Ja’Sai. Although writing was something she has held dear to her heart since middle school when she began journaling, her relationship with her daughters was the inspiration for writing this motivational book.

When Fugitt became a mom, she began to approach the many difficult situations that arise in parenting.

Thinking about her younger self, she began to direct her focus on how she would want to be spoken to

and have life explained in a positive way. She parented in a way that empowered her girls to want to have manners and self-control, not just because they were told they had to.

Fugitt had hoped that her unique parenting style was producing the result she and her husband were striving for — for her girls to grow up to be better women than she was. Her hopes were validated when other parents began commenting that her daughters’ manners and behavior stood out. Fugitt realized she could pass on this outlook on to other little ladies.

Beginning in January of 2016, every spare moment was spent writing down whatever came to mind that she wanted to include in the book. She took notes after every conversation with her girls, some of them on the back of receipts or bills or whatever she could find to save her thoughts for later. She laughs as she recalls telling her husband

Left: Fugitt obtained much of her inspiration from her daughters Sa’Niyah and Ja’Sai.

not to throw any loose papers away because it might contain a tidbit of her work on it somewhere. Fugitt also made use of the time she spent taking her daughters to and from school by recording affirmations they recited together in the car. At the dinner table, Fugitt and her husband would ask their daughters to share details of their day and how certain occurrences made them feel. Fugitt would take notes and review them as her research. As she did this, she says her feelings that this was going to materialize into something became stronger and stronger and “everything started coming together.”

Oftentimes, she would print out pages she had written and read them to the girls at night for bedtime stories. Both of her daughters had an active role in the creation of this book and they enjoyed it. “If they didn’t like it, I scrapped it or revised it. If they liked it, it stayed,” says

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Fugitt of the girls’ involvement.

One particular time, she left a few pages in their room while she went to make her evening tea. When she returned, her husband was reading an insert from her pages without realizing his wife was the author. He glanced up at her and said “Babe, you should read this; it’s really good!” Fugitt says she and Sa’Niyah and Ja’Sai laughed until tears ran down their face when the girls told them “it’s mommy’s book!”

From June until September of 2016, she spent every extra second creating the book. She would find herself reading it over and over again until she was certain it was exactly what she wanted it to be. A selfdescribed “researchaholic,” Fugitt read books, listened to podcasts, attended webinars, and joined social media groups to learn about the publishing world. She made the decision to self-publish so that she could have complete authority over every part of this project she had put her heart and soul into. This decision also made her feel that she was following through on her own advice she gave in the book, to make your own decisions and be strong and powerful. With the help of an editor and graphic designer, the book took shape. But even the cover was something Fugitt didn’t take lightly. The girl depicted on the cover had to have brown hair with gold streaks like she and both her daughters have. The cover girl had to have her hair parted down the middle - not a perfect part though and in buns, a nod to her youngest daughter who hates buns. Fugitt didn’t want her cover girl to have eyes showing, but she should have a skin tone that could correspond to any race. She wanted every little girl who picked up this book to see the cover and think that it could be her.

“This book is for the mother who wants nothing but the best

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for her daughter(s), who wants to raise a young lady that holds her head high while walking in a crowd of naysayers. This book is for the mother who wants her daughter to be a hundred times better than she was as a young girl, who wants to infuse confidence, honor, and integrity in her young lady.”

“It was a such a rush,” Fugitt says when the five copies of her book that she ordered came in the mail.

Her emotions spilled over when she saw how pretty it was and was able to actually see it in print and touch the pages. “I did it; this is mine even if nobody buys it,” she remembers thinking. The next step was creating a fan page and promoting the book on social media. She and the girls made a Facebook live video announcing that Adjust Your Crown was available for pre-order.

Her secret was finally revealed.

To her amazement, 40 books were preordered the first week, then 40 more, and then more. She saw that her video had been shared more than 1,500 times and the book made it to Amazon’s top 100 list. “It was beyond me,” she says. Adjust Your Crown was officially published in October of 2016.

The book’s popularity inspired her to reach out to Barnes and Noble who offered her a reading at an ‘Indie author day’ event. She did so well that she was offered to speak at more events, including one at Tyson’s Corner whose organizers considered her one of the top best-selling local authors.

This was a major confidence boost for this humble new author. That year, Fugitt went on a small book tour, reaching families in Texas and Louisiana, including one area known for high illiteracy rates.

Now not only was Fugitt living the dream of a successful author, but her book was taking on a life of its own. She learned from

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her readers that her words were opening up lines of communication between mothers and daughters. It has inspired families to put down their phones and have open, honest conversations with their kids.

After seeing the impact Adjust Your Crown has had on families, Fugitt has spoken at various mentoring organizations and and is pursuing ways to give back even more, including writing more books. She has her sights set on a version for a younger audience and also one for boys. And even though Fugitt expresses that she has the same fears as in the beginning of creating her first book, there is no doubt she will be successful again. ❖

About the AUTHOR Christine Craddock is a writer, editor, photographer, wife, and mother of two adorable children. She is a faithful contributing writer for Piedmont Lifestyle Publications and has resided in Haymarket since 2006.

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WITH OTHER O

(NOTVALI

WITH

Nothing but LOVE

Giving your Valentine’s Day Meaning

BY CHRISTINE CRADDOCK

T

he origins of Valentine’s Day date back even before the 14th century when ‘courting’ was flourishing in England — this is when February 14th became associated with love and those in love expressing affection for each other in the form of cards, flowers, or candy. And while these Valentine’s Day traditions hold strong in modern days, people either love the holiday or hate it. Some order the roses ahead of time while others pick them up at the local Harris Teeter on the way home from work. Those married for years may choose to give a simple card to express their feelings or write a sweet note. Others in the midst of raising children may just let the day go by without truly acknowledging it. All the single ladies… or men… may go out for a night on the town in the hopes of finding someone to spend the next Valentine’s Day with. I guess it all depends on your perspective… and relationship status.

Some people dislike Valentines Day for reasons such as it’s “price gouging,” “high-pressure,” “made-up,” and “overcommercialized.”

In response, therapist and relationship coach Esther Boykin, also author of The Date Deck and CEO of Group Therapy Associates in Haymarket, wrote a blog entitled “7 Reasons I Love Valentine’s Day… Even if it is a Ridiculous Holiday.”

Boykin says, “but there’s another side... there’s the love.”

•

•

Reason number one to love Valentine’s Day is directed at the single people in life. Boykin says people who are single but maintain good social circles have actually reported having a great time on this special day of the year. “The truth is, Valentine’s Day is a chance to remind yourself of all the loving relationships in your life, and when we feel loved, we attract more love.” How’s that for a good dose of hope?

The second reason Boykin gives is that it reminds couples about the attention and care that should be put into the relationship.

•

The day, and preparing for it, can provide the “eye-opening” moment that allows you to evaluate your readiness to be in a relationship and the health of the relationship you are currently in.

•

The day can bring to mind the necessity of being proactive in cultivating your relationship by planning ahead and budgeting for your romantic gesture.

•

It can give you an extra push to take action towards a relationship you’ve been stalling on.

•

Boykin’s sixth reason is really beautiful, as she points out this holiday can be used as a teaching opportunity for children. It gives them examples of ways to express affection and emotion, and shows that all kinds of love are important to show to those around us, not just the romantic kind.

•

In explaining reason seven, Boykin refers to the 5 Love Languages by author Gary Chapman, a book that has sold over 11 million copies. Valentine’s Day gives couples a chance to give a gift based on the love language your partner lives by.

VALENTINE’S

GIFT IDEAS Based on the 5 Love Languages

If you are in a relationship and haven’t figured out you and your partner’s love languages, do yourself a favor and pull up your internet browser right now! Go to 5LOVELANGUAGES.COM and simply fill out a short questionnaire. Trust us, it’s a game changer! Using their love language to determine a gift will be the perfect way to their heart.

5.QUALITY TIME

{ A DAY DATE }

You don’t have to go far. Haymarket and Gainesville have so many great shops, restaurants, and entertainment spots. Plan a day for your spouse: an art class at Muse Paintbar, a walk around Virginia Gateway and finish up with a movie at Regal Cinemas.

4.RECEIVING GIFTS { A GIFT HUNT }

Set up a treasure hunt for your loved one with small, meaningful gifts and love notes along the way. They’ll appreciate the thought as well as the presents they recieve. Because like Boykin says, “a pair of diamond earrings never hurt anyone!”

3.ACTS OF SERVICE { TACKLE THEIR “TO DO” LIST }

Ok, so this one shouldn’t be too hard. We all know those chores our loved ones have that they would absolutely love a break from!

Tackle a project they’ve been meaning to do, like cleaning out the garage. Or a gift certificate for house cleaning or landscaping so they can put their feet up and relax!

1.WORDS OF AFFIRMATION { A MEANINGFUL CARD }

Sit down and really take some time to think about why you love your partner. A handwritten note or letter lets them know how much they mean to you.

Giving what tradition tells you to give to your spouse may not mean much. But giving your partner what he or she really desires is crucial to creating meaning out of the holiday for your relationship. “Do flowers and jewelry express love to your wife or would she prefer a fun night on the town or a quiet dinner at home prepared by you?”

Boykin asks. “The trick is to realize that gifts come in all forms including your time, attention, words… and a pair of diamond earrings never hurt anyone,” says Boykin.

So, in case your spouse or partner’s love language includes a delicious meal but they would prefer to enjoy it at home on this day when restaurants are booked and overcrowded, the recipe on the next page is for you. If not, make that reservation or get

2.PHYSICAL TOUCH { A MASSAGE COUPON BOOK }

A simple massage from you to your loved one can be all it takes to make their heart melt.

Make a coupon book for foot rubs, back rubs, massages or even hugs and kisses! They can use it throughout the year and it will be a reminder of how much you love them!

those flowers ordered, or sit down a write a poem expressing the specific qualities you admire in your partner. Or take a look at 5 Love Languages and figure out a way to speak to your loved one in the way he or she would feel most appreciated.

To read more “musings” by Esther Boykin, subscribe to her podcast, find out about events and retreats to enhance marriage relationships, or buy her book, The Date Deck, go to estherboykin.com.

Located on Jefferson Street in Haymarket, Group Therapy Associates is a “boutique style counseling and coaching agency for people who want to live happier and healthier lives.” To find out more, go to grouptherapyassociates.com or call 703644-8041.

{ FEBRUARY 2018 |

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A meal they’ll LOVE

Seared Scallops & Tenderloin Steaks

CHOOSING TENDERLOINS Look for red meat with little to no marbling or fat.

( with manhattan sauce )

From a young age, Dennis Buettner, Sous Chef at Firebirds Wood Fired Grill in Gainesville, had an appreciation and affinity for cooking that stemmed from growing up in a family of non-professional chefs. While he most enjoys creating new food experiences using simple ingredients, he is well-known for his homemade sweet potato chips and best-ever soups and sandwiches around his neighborhood in Haymarket. Basically, if he’s cooking, you want an invite to the party just to experience some of his dishes. And while a self-proclaimed non-expert on the romantic side of the holiday, when asked for a recipe anyone could prepare for a loved one on this holiday, he gave us this suggestion.

3) THE SAUCE:

INGREDIENTS:

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) 4 (1-inch thick) tenderloin steaks 8 large diver sea scallops, trimmed Kosher salt and cracked pepper 1 large shallot, chopped 2 cloves garlic, chopped cup sweet vermouth 2 tablespoons butter 1 pound asparagus, trimmed ½ bunch fresh thyme 2 bunches fresh sage ½ lemon, juiced

1) THE MEAT: 1. Drizzle some EVOO over the steaks - just enough to coat them lightly.

2. Season with kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper.

3. Heat a nonstick skillet until smoking hot, add the tenderloins 4. Cook for 3 minutes on each side - this will cook it medium rare.

5. Cook an extra minute for medium or medium well temperatures.

6. Remove meat from heat to allow it to rest.

WHY DIVER SCALLOPS? These scallops, hand-picked off a rock by divers, are more ecologically friendly and less gritty.

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1. Heat a saucepan to medium heat and add about a tablespoon of EVOO. 2. Add shallots and garlic, cook about 2 minutes.

3. Add the sweet vermouth and reduce by half (boil until half the liquid is evaporated). This should only take about 30 seconds.

4. Add the butter to the pan and stir until all the ingredients are incorporated.

2) THE

SEAFOOD: 1. Drizzle more EVOO over the scallops and season them just like the steaks.

2. Again, heat the skillet until smoking hot, add more EVOO 3. Place the thyme in the pan whole. Discard when the scallops are cooked.

4. Add the scallops, and cook 2 to 3 minutes on each side until well caramelized on both sides and firm to the touch.

Remove from heat.

4) THE VEGETABLE: 1. Place 2 inches of water in a medium sized pot and let it come to a boil.

2. Add the asparagus to the water and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Cook till al dente.

3. Remove the asparagus.

4. Drizzle it with EVOO, squeeze lemon on it, and season with a little salt and pepper.

5)

P REPARING THE P L ATE:

1. Place each tenderloin on a plate and drizzle Manhattan sauce over the tops.

2. Once the pan is empty, heat about 2 tablespoons EVOO until smoking hot.

3. Add fresh sage and fry until crispy.

4. Back to the steaks - place 2 scallops on top of each steak.

5. Serve asparagus alongside.

6. Sprinkle the fried sage over the whole dish.

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hh...

VALENTINE’S DAY

...when LOVE is in the air and WINE is on the table

BY MARK LUNA

24

T

his month’s issue of Haymarket and Gainesville Lifestyle marks my debut as one of the wine column contributors to this magazine. It’s both my honor and pleasure to be asked to do this, and to share with you my thoughts and suggestions for one of my favorite wine occasions, Valentine’s Day. For this piece, I’ve chosen three wines from two countries that I think perfectly express all the romance and intrigue that one could desire for this annual ‘Day of Love.’

Our first wine comes from the very place where the timeless, romantic story of Romeo and Juliet occurred, the ‘City of Love,’ Verona, Italy. Located in the

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western hills of the Veneto region, home to the great wine Amarone della Valpolicella, Verona is also where the historic winery Pasqua Vigneti e Cantine was founded in 1925. Nearly a century later, Famiglia Pasqua (the Pasqua family) is three generations deep in winemaking and a leading player in the Italian and international wine world.

One of their best wines, and one my favorites, is the 2015 PassioneSentimento (“passion” and “feeling”) Rosso. This young, yet beautiful, red blend of the grapes corvina (driving force of Amarone), croatina, and merlot drinks like a much longer-aged wine, with an identity all its own.

This is a hand-crafted wine, made with great care and the best selected grapes of the harvest.

Oak aged, its color is deep ruby red. The aromatics are intense, with plenty of red berry and dried fruit notes, and varying hints of spice. It has a rich mouthfeel, with a long, healthy finish…this is a great food wine, especially with cured meats and aged cheese.

What also makes this wine perfect for Valentine’s Day? The label: inspired by Shakespeare himself, it depicts an image that is taken from from a photograph, shot

by Giò Martorana, of the world famous Romeo and Juliet wall, where messages from lovers and visitors from around the world

are forever inscribed, located alongside “Juliet’s house” on Cappello Street in Verona.

If white wine is your preference, or perhaps how you’d like to start the evening, Famiglia Pasqua has you covered there as well. The 2015 PassioneSentimento Bianco is another Veneto offering, this time from the single white wine grape garganega. It is equally appealing in both romance and quality. Garganega is one of Italy’s most ancient grapes, and produces wonderfully vibrant wines that are marked by floral notes, citrus scents and almond. Also aged in French oak, this Famiglia Pasqua bianco is an elegant white wine, round and rich in texture, with a lasting finish…an outstanding complement to appetizers, seasoned cheeses, or really with any recipe.

Both of the Famiglia Pasqua wines well represent the region from which they’re produced, but at a price that also reflects an enormous value. What you get from these wines for what you pay, approximately $20, can’t be touched and makes them all the more appealing.

So, we’re off to Spain! If a great sparkling wine is your desire for Valentine’s Day (and night), you can’t go wrong with the 2016 Mont-Marcal Rosado Brut Cava, a dry rosé sparkling wine, from the prestigious wine zone Penedes. Like champagne, cava is produced in the traditional method of sparkling wine-making, with the second fermentation occurring inside the bottle, giving it much more concentration and character. This cava is made from 100 percent trepat grapes, an indigenous grape from northeastern Spain normally used for rosé. The color is an attractive and deep red, thanks to the 12hour maceration period when the color of the grape juice darkens from contact with the grape skins.

The bubbles are very fine, and

About the AUTHOR

the mousse that sits atop the wine is big and frothy. There are fragrances of red berries, cherries and blackberries, with a hint of plum and fig, making this cava an aromatic dream. And as expected on the palate, it is young, fruity, fresh, soft, and, above all, elegant.

Ideally, this cava is best served with appetizers but, in truth, as with all well-made sparkling wines, it goes deliciously well with just about any dish you want to serve. And like the Italian wines mentioned, the $20 you’ll spend to enjoy it will be the steal of the day.

Now one important thing to

know is that while the prices of these wines might suggest a quick trip down to the grocery store, where wine bottles abound, you won’t find them there. Instead, you can find these wines, and will be considerably better served, at your local wine shop, such as Cork & Fork in Gainesville and The Grapevine in Warrenton.

Let these folks get to know you and your palate, they love to talk about wine.

I hope you have a very Happy Valentine’s Day with someone who makes you smile, and I hope these wines make it to your table. ❖

{ FEBRUARY 2018 |

Mark Luna is a Portfolio Rep for Roanoke Valley Wine Company. He has a Level 3 Advanced Certification from the Wine & Spirits Education Trust (WSET) and is a member of the prestigious Wine Scholar Guild, where he’s finishing his Italian Wine Scholar postnominal accreditation.

Through and beyond his work for RVWC, Mark writes, teaches and guest-speaks about wine in a variety of both industry and privately held events. He lives in Nokesville with his family. For events, Mark can be reached at mluna96@gmail.com.

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VA L E N T I N E ’ S D AY D E S S E R T

CREME BRÛLÉE

BY MOLLY MANGAN, SIMPLY DESSERTS

W

hat could be more romantic on Valentine’s Day than a rich, creamy, sugary creme brûlée with a crispy caramelized top?

Do you think it’s complicated or hard or solely in the domain of restaurant kitchens and pastry chefs to create? Not at all. Try this recipe from Simply Desserts in Gainesville and have a romantic night!

SERVINGS: 2

2 cups heavy cream 1 vanilla bean or 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1/3 cup sugar 6 egg yolks 8 tsp. sugar (topping) 1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place 2 ramekin dishes in an oven-safe flat pan with high sides.

2. Combine cream and half of the sugar in a pot and bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Set off to the side.

3. In a large bowl whisk together egg yolks and remaining half of sugar. Gently start to slowly temper your egg yolks with the hot cream mixture (pouring in the cream mixture very slowly in a steady stream). Pouring the mixture in too quickly could result in cooking the eggs which is not desirable. Stir gently.

4. Gently fill each ramekin with the custard mixture, it is recommended you fill these as close to the oven as possible to avoid spillage when transferring into the oven.

4. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Gently pour the boiling water into the larger pan with the ramekins, ensuring not to get any water into the custards; you will want to fill the pan so it covers 2/3 of the way up the sides of the ramekins.

6. Remove ramekins from pans and let to cool at room temperature for 2 hours, then cover and chill for at least 4 hours before caramelizing.

Caramelize the sugar using a kitchen torch (available at most grocery stores) by holding the flame of about 3-4 inches away and moving evenly to cook the sugar until it is golden brown and bubbling. OR, caramelize the sugar using your broiler: move the top rack in your oven up as high as it will go. Place the ramekins on the rack, and turn on the broiler. Broil for 5 to 10 minutes, rotating them frequently so that they broil evenly. Take them out when they are golden brown and bubbling.

7. When ready to serve, sprinkle sugar on top evenly to make a thin layer.

8. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 8 hours before serving.

5. Gently place into the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the sides are set and the edges are golden. The middle will still be slightly jiggly.

About the AUTHOR Molly Mangan is one of the Cake Artists at Simply Desserts in Gainesville. A Culinary Institute of America graduate, she has been working there for 2 years. Before that she was a pastry chef in Fredericksburg. This job has been a dream of hers for a long time and it brings great joy to her to make beautiful cakes for special events.

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What did you do with your Bonanza today?

COMPASSION AIRLIFT:

“Help when you need it most”

BY PAM KAMPHUIS

M

any pilots with a personal aircraft use their planes for recreational or business purposes… a family vacation, a business trip, practicing their pilot skills and gaining professional accreditations. But there is an organization in Manassas whose pilots do not always fly for these reasons. Compassion Airlift, a 501(c)(3) non profit, is a unique type of organization with very special people.

Piedmont Lifestyle met with CA pilots Peggy Doyle and Mary Weybright and Mike Pearson to catch up on what is happening with Compassion Airlift.

CAN YOU TELL ME WHAT COMPASSION AIRLIFT DOES?

legendary Tuskegee Our mission is to provide Airman to a care facility, and many more. Some free air transportation are younger veterans with for eligible patients to combat related injuries. medical facilities for Some are older WWII specialized evaluation, veterans. Giving back to diagnosis, treatment, or veterans is an honor for rehabilitation that is not available near their home, us. Sometimes they are met at their destination especially for those who by an honor guard, require a stretcher en police departments, fire route. departments, or their WHAT SORT OF MISSIONS own unit. That’s really HAS CA FLOWN? incredibly emotional and We transported a special. delightful six-year-old from Virginia to the WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT CA? Burn Center at Shriners Our Bonanza N7709R Hospital in Boston, is the only charitable a cancer patient to a single-engine stretcherspecialized treatment equipped plane on the center, an Alzheimer’s east coast. The FAApatient to a care facility approved stretcher system closer to her family, a was installed for patients

Clockwise from top left: Pilot Lou Sabatini loads a patient into the Bonanza in preparation for transport; Compassion Airlift’s Bonanza N7709R in flight; Pilot Chuck Vannostrand loads patient with assistance of ambulance personnel; Pilots Chuck Vannostrand and Gene Cross with patient Sarah Cronin; A patient comfortable on the stretcher ready for takeoff; A patient with her father ready for transport; Lou Sabatini and Peggy Doyle with a patient with severe Lyme disease; Compassion Airlift is the only charitable single engine on the east coast which is equipped with a stretcher. Photos courtesy of Compassion Airlift.

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medical expenses can just overwhelm a family, especially if it requires frequent travel. There are some patients who need frequent treatments who we have flown multiple times. Those are people we can help.

WHO ELSE CAN TRAVEL WITH COMPASSION AIRLIFT?

“I am a nurse by profession. Combining my passion for flying with my dedication to caring for others was a perfect fit. Getting to fly is a bonus; this is so much more meaningful.

It gives us a purpose.”

WHO ARE YOUR PILOTS?

who need to recline during flight and are unable to travel on other forms of either public or other charitable air transportation and cannot afford an official medical transport.

We have 11 active pilots on our roster. All the pilots donate their time to CA. Every one of our pilots is involved because of a calling to help less fortunate people who have a financial and medical need for nocost air transportation.

The Pilots are all professional, experienced, accomplished aviators, most with experience in the military, corporate, or commercial airlines. Some are flight instructors.

All of our pilots donate their time, their talent, and their treasure to Compassion Airlift, LLC operations without compensation of any kind except for the satisfaction that they are helping people in need.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR THIS SERVICE?

DO YOU EVER FLY WITH PATIENTS IN EMERGENCY?

Transportation at no cost is available for patients and veterans who have a financial need and are unable to travel by public transportation. A financial need doesn’t mean that they are poor or indigent; sometimes

No, but we do fly time sensitive missions, usually involving organ transplant.

Once an organ becomes available there is only a four to eight hour window to get the organ to the patient, or vice-versa. In that case we mobilize as

— PEGGY DOYLE, PILOT

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Military veterans and their families, special needs children traveling to camps. Also, CA is always prepared to help in the event of disaster or emergency conditions.

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“Why we do it, we all feel the same way…we feel we’ve been blessed in our own lives, we all feel it’s important to help other people; we all truly feel that. But when you go out and you see these people who truly need help, and you are able to help them, and when you see the look on their faces, not only the gratitude but the feeling that now they have a chance for something better, and what I found is that many of these people will give something back to us… we’ll pick them up and they’ll have a bag of homemade cookies or something… just little things… those are really neat things.”

— MIKE PEARSON, PILOT

necessary; sometimes, if it’s faster, pilots will use their own planes in this situation.

DO YOU EVER FLY MISSIONS THAT ARE NOT SPECIFICALLY MEDICAL?

Yes, we have flown patients that need air transport home from a medical facility, even just for a visit. Once we transported a veteran

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Pilot Chuck Vannostrand and Pilot/Chaplain John Hoffman prepare to transport Tuskegee Airman Dempsey Morgan to a veterans home.

Photos courtesy of Compassion Airlift.

from Walter Reed, who hadn’t been back home in three years, to his home in Michigan for Christmas and then back again to continue his treatment.

We have transported an Alzheimer’s patient from a care facility to another care facility near her family.

WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF CA?

We started in 1977 under the Mercy Medical Airlift umbrella. In 2015, the Bonanza pilots and owners began flying as in independent entity as Compassion Airlift, obtaining 501(c)(3) status in 2017.

HOW IS CA FUNDED?

Compassion Airlift relies on private donations, donations from pilots, and donations from local organizations. For example, the Bull Run Rotary donated funds from their 5K walk/ run. Other donating organizations include Christian Community Church in Bowie, MD., the Rockville Elks and the REMAX Freedom Team.

WHAT SORT OF NONMONETARY SUPPORT DO YOU RECEIVE FROM THE COMMUNITY?

We do receive in kind support from related organizations. For instance, most airport

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fees are waived, and sometimes other airports donate fuel. We also receive support from local companies such as Dulles Aviation, APP Jet Center in Manassas, and companies such as Boeing Jeppesen (charts and training materials), XM Radio (aviation weather), Capital Aviation, and Computer Training Systems.

WHAT ARE YOUR OPERATING COSTS?

The operating costs of CA, including aircraft maintenance, insurance, fuel, oil, hangar costs, and other expenses is about $40,000 per year. Often this goal is not reached through donations. This organization will only be able to survive as long as resources permit. We are in great need of support.

But we want to emphasize that no one who needs stretcher transportation that cannot be served by other charitable or low-cost medical transport services is ever turned away. The pilots and owners of the organization donate the flying costs of the plane. But we are simply not going to be able to continue indefinitely unless we get some funding.

GAINESVILLE LIFESTYLE

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“One of my most memorable flights was picking up a toddler with heart problems from a mountaintop airport in West Virginia to bring him to treatment at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore. What was special about this was that I had ability to save the family the very long road trip with a sick toddler. It was so nice to meet these people and get to know them and also to provide this service for them. This is the thing we can do that is a real gift to us to have that opportunity to help people, and a real gift to them to be able to fly that quickly.”

— MARY WEYBRIGHT, PILOT

The backbone of this organization is the volunteer pilots, who contribute their time, talent, and treasure to help those in need.

What do they get in return? They just love being able to help people, and they love flying. As Peggy Doyle says, “pilots can never get enough flying time.” But the thanks and gratitude of their passengers and families is the truly fulfilling part. The warm hugs are the best form of payment. ❖ To learn more about Compassion Airlift visit www.compassionairlift.com To donate visit www.compassionairlift.org/donations/donate.

Every little bit helps.

Volunteers are always needed in the fields of PR and advertising, web support, fundraising and grant writing, and visiting medical facilities and we can always use more experienced and dedicated pilots.

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Yes, it is cold, but...

If you love fresh veggies, there is one to plant right now.

BY DEBBIE EISELE

G

ardeners, dig out your gloves – maybe your hat and scarves too.

It’s time to start your garden; really, it is. For those of you who are afflicted by winter doldrums, gather your tools and get your hands in the soil now. Dream of some tasty produce you’ll be able to harvest soon – if you get out and plant this month it may really happen. Some of you may not believe there are any seeds which survive planting in the winter, but there is.The delicious results are worth gardening in the cold.

Legumes called Alaskan peas (Pisum sativum ‘Alaska’) are the seeds to sow.

The first year I found this particular pea, I honestly couldn’t believe I could plant this in February and have fresh peas in under 60 days. But I was wrong and the seeds survived the cold temperatures and the crop harvest was very successful; so much so that I never had an opportunity to cook any of them – the peas were devoured raw because they were so fresh and tasty.

If you are new to gardening or an avid gardener, it doesn’t matter. Try planting these peas. I’ve included some general information to assist you with your chilly cultivating endeavor.

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GAINESVILLE LIFESTYLE

Alaskan pea growing tips Alaskan peas grow up to 3 feet tall, and need to be trellised in some manner.

The plants will mature in about 56 days – not so bad if you sow seeds in February, as you will be able to eat them by April. By the way, this pea variety has one of the earliest harvest. Nice, isn’t it?

Ideal for chilly conditions and the pea plant tends to fade quickly once the weather heats up – here in Virginia, it is ideal to start in early February as we can get hot, sometimes really hot during the spring.

Alaskan peas require full-sun (or part-shade if you plant later than February). Make sure when you plant them, you sow seeds two inches apart.

}

For optimum growth and health, keep the soil moist, but not drenched.

The seeds germinate within 7 to 14 days and will grow the best when temperatures over 45 degrees, sometimes a little lower.

If you want to harvest peas well into spring (maybe even early summer), simply plant additional seeds about every two weeks until mid-spring. When the weather warms too much, which is common in this area, it will inhibit growth and the overall productivity of this crop. However if you want to test your “green thumb” and continue planting in a shady area in mid-spring, go for it.

Personally, I have not experienced much success with this method, but it may be worth trying yourself.

NEED HELP GROWING VEGETABLES?

If you are not sure how to begin your garden, or want to speak with the experts, our county offers a free resource – THE MASTER GARDENER HELP DESK. The Virginia Tech Cooperative Extension Agent office is located at 24 Pelham Street, Warrenton.

The master gardeners are volunteers with vast knowledge on all things plant and soil related.

These gardeners are pleasant and always willing to impart their knowledge to educate the community.

Walk-ins, emails, online submissions and phone calls are welcome. Their office is located at 24 Pelham Street in Warrenton.

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A

Dream Maker Biotrek Adventure Travels’ Sunny Reynolds

BY AIMÉE O’GRADY

A

s a child, the world was small for Sunny Reynolds. Raised 20 miles north of Syracuse in Central Square, NY, Sunny never dreamed of a life of travel. Her family owned property nearby where they would camp for vacation. Her father, who worked as a tool and die maker for Smith Corona, didn’t enjoy his job and recommended Sunny find a career she was passionate about.

Life had big plans for this small-town girl.

Possessing a creative eye, Sunny was educated in Theatre Arts and Photography at the University of Syracuse. Rather than the spotlight, however, her interests lay behind the curtain in set design, costumes, lighting, and makeup. Composition, light, colors, and textures called to her throughout her life.

Sunny relocated to Virginia around 1980.

This move would change her life. She was in her late 20s and was hired by a bank in Fairfax, Virginia. She settled in Manassas.

Sunny rose to bank manager and remained in the industry for eight years. It was during this time that Sunny discovered her real talent for photography.

While in banking, Sunny worked with an attorney who recognized her talent. He asked her to photograph his family and decorate his office. His suggestion that she pursue photography full time was a spark that lit a fire. It wasn’t long before she left banking to focus exclusively on photography. “I took my last bank check and started a business,” she laughs. She fully engaged her passion with more photography classes at NOVA at the Loudoun County Campus and George Washington University.

She relocated to Midland and converted a basement room to a dark room. “I wanted to make it big. I used my connections and got an interview with a New York City ad agency. They liked my work and I was hired,” she says. Her work took this inexperienced traveler, who first saw the ocean when she was 30, to exotic places. “One of the first places I went was Costa Rica to shoot an IBM facility. While there, one of the locals showed me around the village.” That trip was the catalyst for Biotrek Adventure Travels.

Back home, Sunny and a partner opened a gallery at 19 Culpeper Street in Warrenton where famed artists such as Loudoun County artist Maggie Siner showed artwork. “We were successful right away,” she says of their sold-out shows. The gallery even sponsored international artists who came to showcase

Opposite page (clockwise from top, left): Argentina, Tanzania, Morocco, Galapagos, Chile, Guatemala.

Above (background): India. Above: Reynolds at her Main Street studio. Photo by Kara Thorpe.

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Upcoming Tours Celebrating 25 years of global service from Warrenton, Biotrek Adventure Travels is currently scheduling 2018 trips to:

Cuba (MAY 11-20)

Galapagos Islands (JUNE 15-25)

Guatemala (JULY 14-22)

New Zealand (NOV 25 -DEC 10)

Sunny’s photography experience and talent is on display in her two published books as well on as her website (sunnyreynoldsphotography.com). The Random House publication Hardie Newton’s Celebration of Flowers, features exclusive photography from Sunny. Additionally, she published her own book Boats, in 2002.

their work.

“Although it was successful, it became too much to maintain the gallery and corporate photography,” Sunny explains.

When her partner moved on, Sunny relocated to 81 Main Street in Warrenton: “I quit the ad agency and gallery to start a travel company.”

Sunny returned to Costa Rica and met with in-country ground operators. “At first, I did it all on my own. I remember personally renting a passenger van and driving people around the country,” she says. Those early trips were full of adventure. “We always had a flat tire, it was just something we could count on because of the quality of the roads.

I made a game of it and would see how fast we could change the tire,” she says of making the most out of the situation.

“One time, after a flat in Monteverde, we ended up catching a ride with the local coffee pickers back to town. It’s a memory that will last forever for the guests on the trip,” she reminisces. It was Sunny’s friends and family who embarked on those first trips. “I called that group the ‘Dream Team’; they have travelled to many countries with me over the years,” she remembers.

Twenty-five years later, Sunny is still the Warrenton dream maker; making dreams come true for travelers throughout the United States to vacation in exotic Above, left: Galapagos.

Above, right: Cuba.

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{ FEBRUARY 2018 |

locations such as the Galapagos Islands, a place she has visited 38 times.

Her tours include 11 additional countries including Argentina, Chile, Costa Rica, Cuba, Guatemala, India, Morocco, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Peru, and Tanzania. “To keep my travelers coming back, I continually add new countries like Portugal [added for 2018],” Sunny says of the growing list of locations Biotrek Adventure Travels visits.

Over the years she has gained a familiarity with countries and people only time can create. Sunny laughs when she walks off a plane onto a runway, only to recognize all the drivers waiting for passengers, even though only one is waiting for her. Sunny has spent countless days with the locals who work as ground operators and drivers escorting her guests through unfamiliar terrain – from the deserts of the Sahara to the mountains of Peru. “These people have become my family,” she says of the level of trust given to her ground operators.

The adventure has changed for Sunny, “Seeing the reaction of travelers is what it is all about now. For people to see wildlife on a safari or the colors of a Cuban street is my reward,” she says. And having her creative eye is gift for everyone. “I know

It is recommended to book trips six months to one year out. Scheduled payments are available. For information on upcoming expeditions visit biotrekadventuretravels.com or call 540-349-0040.

immediately if a hotel will work or not,” she says of the care taken to select accommodations that promote the local culture.

Having traveled hundreds of times and to every continent over the years, Sunny and her team have made all the mistakes so her guests don’t have to: “I know which month to travel to each location for chances of the best weather, the fewest tourists, and most pleasant experience.” Having vetted every ground operator, hotel, and local site, Biotrek Adventure Travels brings a personal touch to travel which is incomparable.

Biotrek Adventure Travels limits expeditions to only 10 people, creating an intimate and catered experience.

Guests travel with the knowledge that every measure has been taken to ensure they have a wonderful, stress-free trip.

From accommodations and restaurants to transportation, packing lists and helpful hints, travelers will be immersed in the local culture with an unparalleled local touch. “It is not uncommon to be invited to our Indian ground operator’s home for dinner,” Sunny shares. Every expedition is environmentally and culturally based. ❖ Destination photos by Sunny Reynolds

About the AUTHOR Aimée O’Grady is a freelance writer who enjoys transforming stories told by Fauquier residents into articles for Lifestyle readers. She learns more and more about our rich county with every interview she conducts.

GAINESVILLE LIFESTYLE

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Call for a home review.

8078 Crescent Park Drive Suite 205 Gainesville, VA 20155 703.753.7910 MICHELLE M. HOPKINS Cell: 703.477.3003 ATTORNEY AT LAW Web: everetthouse.c21-email.com Licensed in VA

CENTURY 21 Agent: Everett House ® SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER. ®

0225232531 | © 2018 Century 21 Real Estate LLC. CENTURY 21® and the CENTURY 21 Logo are registered service marks owned by Century 21 Real Estate LLC. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each office is independently owned and operated.

Building Families Through Adoption for Over 35 Years

PROFESSIONAL, PERSONALIZED SERVICE

HOPKINS L F THE

AW

571.248.2210 MHOPKINSLAW.COM

IRM

DON’T MISS THE

MARKET

Fellow of the Academy of Adoption and Assisted Reproduction Attorneys Since 1993 Named Top Lawyer by Northern Virginia Magazine

JANET LIGHT

Granted Distinguished Rating in Both Legal Ability and Ethical Standards

by Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review

Step Parent Adoptions Foster Parent Adoptions Agency Adoptions Contested Adoptions Interstate Adoptions Parental Placement Adoptions

REALTOR®

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540-219-7509 Serving Prince William, Fauquier and Surrounding Counties

85 Garrett Street Warrenton, Virginia 20186 1931 Plank Rd Suite 201 Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401 Office: 540-373-2000 | Fax: 540-373-7224 Email: janet.light@c21nm.com

Robert H. Klima Adoption Attorney

9300 Grant Avenue, Suite 101 l Manassas, Virginia 20110 703-361-5051 l RHKlima@RHKlima.com l www. RHKlima.com

MICHELLE M. HOPKINS ATTORNEY AT LAW

Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

{ FEBRUARY 2018 |

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Lifestyle

the G A I N E S V I L L E L I F E S T Y L E

M AG A Z I N E

PO Box 3632 · Warrenton, Virginia 20188 540-349-2951 · www.piedmontlifestyle.com

Open 7am- 8pm & Saturdays!

Never Fear the Dentist Again At Gainesville Dental Associates, we have always been sensitive to our patients who have a high fear and anxiety of the dentist - people just like you! For years, Dr. Chehade has been providing patients with this safe and comfortable experience. We are able to correct years of ignored dental problems often with just one visit, all while you are comfortable and relaxed. Call and ask to speak with our wonderful sedation coordinator for more details.

VOTED TOP DENTIST

enhance your smile today!

CALL US TO MAKE YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT!

new patient special!

Cash Price for Cleaning, Polishing, X-Ray, Dental Exam - $89 Valued at $376

DDS ponte, arlos A • Dr. C S D D port, e Daven Dr. Falin e, DDS • d a h e h C y n o Dr. Theo Batistas, DDS • Dr. T

Expires in 30 days

FREE Consultation/Second Opinion Valued at $86

, DDS • Dr. Keith Polizois, DMD elissa Quiggins • Dr. M

571-290-2321

GainesvilleDentalAssociates.com

7521 Virginia Oaks Drive, Ste 230, Gainesville, VA 20155 | Across From CVS on Rt. 29