Haymarket Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine February 2023

Today we are delivering joy.

Fauquier Health strives to provide delivering mothers and care partners with a comfortable experience close to home. Services provided at Fauquier Health includes OB/GYN and certi ed nurse midwifery care, a family birthing center, breastfeeding support, childbirth childbirth education classes, and an Intermediate Care Nursery.

Scan the QR code above to hear what our patients have to say.

There are many types of vein conditions, the most common of which are varicose and spider veins. Varicose veins are often the result of dysfunctional valves that cause blood to flow backwards and collect in the veins, making them enlarged. Spider veins are very small veins that appear as a red, purple, or blue web of veins just below the surface of the skin.

Our team of specially trained providers use minimally invasive procedures to treat these vein conditions.

How beautiful is our cover girl, Allie Mae? I think she’s simply adorable and I can’t thank you enough for taking the time to vote in this year’s Cutest Pet Contest. As the editor, I get to see all of the entrants and I’ll tell you, the competition was stiff. To all the pet parents who entered their fourlegged family members, thank you. What a delight it was to look at their sweet faces and read their stories.

In keeping with the pets theme, we’ve got several features I hope you’ll enjoy.

Don’t miss Amie Bowman’s “First Impressions” piece on Willow Animal Hospital in Vint Hill, our fun and informative feature on great places to walk your pup (with thanks to all those on Western Prince William Chatter who weighed in!), and for you canine history buffs, a terrific piece on a special exhibit at the National Sporting Library and Museum in Middleburg. Titled “Identity & Restraint: Art of the Dog Collar,” the exhibition marries artwork spanning the 17th through 21st centuries with almost 70 vintage and antique dog collars from the museum’s collection. Catch it before it closes on March 26th.

Of course you’ll find more than just pet stuff on the following pages, so settle in and relax with Lifestyle. We’re honored to be your community magazine. See you next month!

EDITOR

Susan McCorkindale

HAYMARKET / GAINESVILLE LIFESTYLE

Celebrating Western Prince William County

The Haymarket/Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and distributed to over 15,000 selected addresses. While reasonable care is taken with all material submitted to The Haymarket/ 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. ©2023 Rappahannock Media LLC.

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BY SUE BALDANI

AMIE BOWMAN

BY SUSAN MCCORKINDALE

BY KARLA JONES

Our Cutest Pet Contest winner, Allie Mae. Photo by Luke Christopher

Check out this month’s diversions as we get ready for a little romance to do list

Check out Haymarket’s new brewery, TROUVAILLE BREWING COMPANY. Open since June, Trouvaille offers “excellent beers, amazing staff, and is dog friendly,” said customer Tommy Cole of Gainesville. There’s also trivia nights and live music. Details: Facebook and Instagram @TrouvailleBrewingCo

DISCOVER

Perfect for Valentine’s Day! Give her locally grown winter tulips from Gainesville’s THE FERTILE BURB. Pickup and delivery available. Details: Facebook @thefertileburb

INDULGE

TASTE

Sink your teeth into gourmet FrenchAsian baked goods at TOUS LES JOURS in Gainesville. Opened recently, the bakery cafe offers more than 300 different kinds of artisan pastries, cakes, and desserts. Location: Virginia Gateway Shopping Center.

Attention lovebirds! Grab your sweetheart and hit the floor at the ANNUAL SWEETHEART SWING DANCE WITH THE SILVER TONES. Saturday, February 18, 7 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Vint Hill Community Center, Warrenton. Tickets and information: silvertonesswingband.com

DANCE

Artists and art lovers rejoice!

LOVEJOY GALLERY, a working studio that hosts a collection of art from around the world as well as pieces by local artists, is now open on the top floor of historic 9358 Main Street in Manassas. Information: LovejoyonMain.com

EXPLORE

Experience a new way to travel I-66 outside the beltway.

The new 66 Express Lanes are now open! You can now travel traffic-free along the 22.5-mile stretch between I-495 and Gainesville. With convenient access points and multiple payment methods, you’ll experience more predictable travel to the things that matter most. Plan your drive, see current toll rates and more by visiting ride66express.com.

shop f inds

for Lifestyle’s second Shop Finds photo essay, we’re featuring selections from Marshall Curated, an antique, gift, and consignment shop located at 8371 West Main Street in Marshall. Her appreciation for craftsmanship, preservation, recycling and honoring the past motivated owner Rosanna Smith to open the shop in 2020. Her motto “save the world, shop vintage,” is showcased by her extensive collection of vintage globes displayed in the front window of the shop. Merchandise is sold both on consignment and offered in 11 different vendor booths. Whether you are a collector or just looking for unique home decor, Marshall Curated has something for everyone. Also make sure to check out Smith’s antique decor rental business Bella Villa Vintage Rentals, located right above Marshall Curated and available by appointment.

did you know?

...that in order to be considered truly “antique,” an item must be at least 100 years old. Minimum “vintage” age (when not referencing automobiles) is 40 or more years old, and can vary depending on the category of item.

Framed Art replica: “The Peacemakers” by George Peter Alexander Healy 1868

industrial age office furniture

Decorative and Functional!

original creations

Art by Bill Webster

These cabinets were most often used by printers to store typesetting pieces but were also used in a variety of factories, medical offices, and workshops. They became prolific in the 1880s - 1920s when Hamilton Manufacturing expanded from making wood type to producing cabinets. Use as a kitchen island to store flatware or as a storage chest for tools in a workshop.

metal tins

mid century modern style

(circa 1940s-60s). Often referred to as “atomic style.” The fear of atomic warfare during this time was reflected in the design of many household items during this era.

unusual finds

You never know what you’re going to find when you shop second-hand!

Copper Still recovered from a Fauquier Farm. Used to make moonshine

Highly collectible! Metal tins provide a window into the history of advertising and the types of products we once used.

Resin was very

Make it a day trip and take a thrifting tour around Marshall...

Marshall Curated

8371 West Main Street

Middleburg Humane Resale Boutique

8351 West Main Street

Vintage Marshall

4238 Frost Street

Noah’s Ark Thrift Store

4199 Winchester Road

…and more 10 minutes away in The Plains!

Resin Jewelry by Royal Bungaleaux, LLC

Lane

Coffee Maker

Mitul Gandhi, MD

Jey Maran, MD

Robert Marsh, MD Muhammad Siddiqui, MD (Palliative Care)

Geoffrey Moorer, MD

Tejas Suresh, MD

Artistic Talent Not Required

At these sip and create classes, all it takes is the desire to have fun

BY SUE BALDANI

Looking for something new and different to do with friends and family? Or, are you interested in meeting new people who share a desire to be creative and have a good time? You don’t have to go far, and many times, the entertainment will come to you.

Whether you already have some artistic talent or are a total beginner, have no fear. There’s something for everyone, and even if what you make isn’t a masterpiece, it’s not always about the end result, but more about enjoying and savoring the creative process.

Here are just some of the amazing opportunities available for people of all ages to get out, have a good time, and also support local businesses and organizations.

Pencils and Paints LLC

DONNA MERCHANT – OWNER/TEACHER | PENCILSANDPAINTS.COM

After graduating with a degree in fine arts and teaching for a number of years, Donna Merchant of Woodbridge started her own business as a traveling art teacher to share her love of sketching and painting. “With Pencils and Paints, I bring all the supplies to people’s homes and do private lessons,” she says. “I do children's birthday parties, adult paint and sip, and other private in-home parties. I also teach church groups and do corporate events.”

Merchant really loves instructing people on how to use paintbrushes and offering suggestions on applying the paint and using different painting techniques. She also enjoys teaching art history. “I offer Arty Parties for kids, which is more than just painting, because I teach a little bit of history too.”

She teaches children's art classes at the Potomac Shores Community Clubhouse as well, and offers monthly paint parties to the residents of that community. In addition, she holds monthly classes at Vita Nova Creatives & Coffee in Nokesville.

“It's a great way to meet your neighbors, get together with friends, and enjoy some great snacks and beverages,” says Merchant. “I often tell people it's not fine art, per se, but fun art.” Check out her parties and classes on Facebook and Instagram.

The Quaint Acorn

ALICIA BLAKE AND DONNA COMER - OWNERS AND VOLUNTEERS

Alicia and Donna, who both live in Amissville, volunteer their time at the Fauquier Habitat ReStore in Warrenton on the third Friday of each month from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Participants learn how to chalk paint furniture while enjoying some dinner and wine and making new friends. All the supplies

Vita Nova Creatives & Coffee

“I'm a creative person and I love meeting creative people and fostering that, so we have classes offered by local artisans,” says Paula Millar, who owns Vita Nova Creatives & Coffee in Nokesville along with her husband, Tom.

“We have a mixed media artist, who is very hands-on, and another artist who’s a little bit more about art history and techniques,” she says. “We also have someone doing wreath-making classes, and one who teaches how to make essential oils and bath bombs.” Children’s art classes are held at the shop as well.

needed to paint, plus food and wine, are included in the fee.

“It’s entertainment with a purpose,” says Blake. “And, Habitat for Humanity’s classes pack the philanthropic element as well - funds from your fun night out go towards helping folks in our community.”

People come for date nights, corporate team building, girls’ nights out, and family get-togethers. “One that Donna and I have particularly felt good about (and have seen multiple times) are folks dealing with the loss of a loved one looking for a fun distraction. The sanding and painting…it’s so therapeutic. And, you see real results!”

These classes allow participants to gain the confidence and skills needed to be able to refresh a piece of furniture at home. For more information, call 540-216-3447, and to register for upcoming classes, follow The Quaint Acorn @thequaintacorn on Instagram and the Fauquier Habitat ReStore on Facebook.

PAULA MILLAR – OWNER/TEACHER VITANOVACREATIVES.COM

fun thing we plan to do is take plain, solid color canvas style tennis shoes and decoupage colorful printed napkins on them,” says Millar. “You get some really cool effects doing that.”

To find classes and sign up, check out Vita Nova’s website and Facebook page.

Millar, an artist herself, plans to teach a class too. “I'm a furniture painter for the most part and I sell a clay and chalkbased paint called DIY Paint,” she says. “I also have molds from Iron Orchid Designs (IOD) and high-end stamps and transfers that can be used to embellish furniture.”

There are also plans in the works to offer a watercolor painting class as well. “Another

Yellow Brick Road Studio

KERRY MOLINA – OWNER/TEACHER KERRYMOLINA.COM

Kerry Molina of Gainesville loves sharing her artistic talent with others. “I named my business Yellow Brick Road Studio because, like the characters in the movie [The Wizard of Oz], people don't think they have what it takes inside them. But, all along, it was there – they just have to believe in themselves.”

Her mission statement, she says, is keeping creativity alive in children and reinvigorating creativity in adults. “Most people say, ‘I can't draw a stick figure,’ but many discover that they can be creative, and even if it’s not perfect, they really enjoy the process.”

Molina teaches classes on everything from collage and vision boards to affirmation paintings, grid collages, and art journaling. Her Gainesville studio seats eight, so if there's a larger class requested, she’ll go out to people's homes and other locations.

One of her favorite offerings is a summer camp for women. “It's called the Joy of the Journey, and it means you need to stop and remember what makes you happy and/or rediscover your creativity,” she

says. The camp is held for one week every July but may be expanding.

Molina also teaches adults at The Winery at Sunshine Ridge Farm once a month and has been teaching art to kindergarten students for the past eight years at Haymarket Baptist Church.

For more on Yellow Brick Road Studio, visit kerrymolina.com. L

This Concord Floorplan is part of our Estate series Homes. This home has been spec’d out with so many upgrades for the homebuyer, who wants it all! This home features our Discovery II package which includes LVP Flooring on the entire main level, upgraded white kitchen cabinetry with soft close drawers, beautiful, Alpine Valley granite countertops with Arctic white, tiled backsplash, a gas fireplace with stone to ceiling, finished basement that includes a rec room, full bath and bedroom as well as the areaway. The owner’s bath has a frameless shower door and granite countertops.

These townhomes offer 3 levels, a 1-car garage, and an open floor plan. The lower and main levels will have luxury vinyl planking, stainless steel appliances and granite countertops in the kitchen. Senseny Village is situated only a few minutes from old town, where you can enjoy the unique shopping and dining Winchester has to offer.

For more information about either of the Lennar Homes Communities, contact Julia Foard-Lynch 540-270-4274

Dennis Rustom, MD, FAAP • Diana Chalmeta, MD Joshua Jakum, MD, FAAP • Katherine Bovee, MD, FAAP • Debbie Hayes, FNP-C Candace Simpson, CPNPC-PC, IBCLC

Stonehaven – 2102 Whithorn Hill, Jeffersonton

Townhomes at Senseny Village in Winchester

And your choice for cutest pet is…

Allie Mae

Allie Mae of Bristow is a beautiful English Labrador. According to her mom, Meghan Cromartie, “Allie Mae loves playing with other dogs, swimming and hiking, and she loves to go shopping. She’s always a social butterfly.” Read on for more about your number one pick for cutest pet!

How old is Allie Mae?

Allie Mae was born in Fredericksburg at Riverwill English Labradors on April 17, 2021. At present, she’s a year and eight months old.

How did Allie Mae come into your life?

Allie Mae came into my life when I least expected it. I lost my Daisy Mae in February of 2021 and I was losing my Lily Lou as she had a broken heart as a result of losing her sister. My friend called me and said there was one yellow female left from a litter and she wanted to know if I was interested. I couldn’t say no when I saw her puppy picture. It was love at first sight!

How has Allie Mae changed your life?

Allie Mae has saved me from a broken heart after losing Daisy Mae and Lily Lou. I think my girls sent Allie Mae to me. I can’t explain it any other way. She has brought so much joy to my life!

What are a few of Allie Mae’s favorite things to do?

Allie Mae loves to go to daycare at A Pup’s Valley to play with her friends, she loves to hike, she loves to work on training, loves to swim, and she loves to shop – especially at Miss Kibbles.

What will Allie Mae one day be remembered for?

Allie Mae will be remembered as a social butterfly. She loves everyone! She loves kids, adults, dogs, cats, and all small critters.

Allie Mae’s Favorite... TOY

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about Allie Mae?

Allie Mae is beautiful but she is also super smart, very affectionate, loving and an overall happy girl!

Allie Mae loves to train with Connected K9 and they have helped her earn all three Canine Good Citizen titles.

FOOD : PLACE TO SLEEP/ HANGOUT:

She loves to sleep in her Mom's bed. She is a great cuddle bug.

: Any toy that squeaks!

Hard choice! She loves all food as she is a Lab. I would have to say her favorite is chicken.

And the Cutest Pet Contest runners-up are…

3rd Place Sullivan BRISTOW

According to Sully’s mom, Kristen DeFelice, “Sully is a 6 year old Goldendoodle who loves chasing squirrels in the backyard, greeting all the dogs in the neighborhood, and sleeping in our bed. He’s never met a person he didn’t like and he loves to give kisses!”

FAVORITE TOY: tug rope

Coco Chanel is a 7 month old mini Goldendoodle who loves to play, run around the backyard chasing squirrels, and tries her best to help her mom, Heather Craig, at work. Said Heather, “Coco Chanel loves to meet people and greet them with lots of licks and puppy love!”

FAVORITE TOY: a squeaky bone with a "Chewy Vuiton" label

FAVORITE FOOD: scrambled eggs

FAVORITE PLACE TO HANG OUT: the backyard

Cutest Pet Staff Picks

FAVORITE FOOD: peanut butter

FAVORITE PLACE TO HANG OUT/SLEEP: his (human) parent's bed

With so many cute pets in this year’s contest, we simply had to acknowledge these five with special awards.

Most Unusual

These sweet and sassy guinea pigs are Poppy and Lola of Gainesville. Poppy loves carrots and cilantro and Lola loves bell peppers and lettuce.

Editor’s Pick

This is Scout from Nokesville. He’s five months old and editor Susan McCorkindale is completely in love with him and his beautiful blue puppy dog eyes.

Most Regal

This is Baxter of Haymarket. He’s the most regal senior mini dachshund we’ve ever set eyes on. Just look at his stance! This little guy knows he’s got the goods.

Best Outfit

This adorable pit mix is Izzy. Rescued from a shelter by parents with a clear sense of style, this Bristow-based cutie is our pick for Best Outfit.

Coolest Name

This Maine Coon from Gainesville is more than handsome. He has the coolest name of any entrant in this year’s contest. Ladies and gentlemen, meet William Wallce!

Great Places to Walk Your Pup

BY SUSAN MCCORKINDALE

BRENDA WOLFE AND KIMBER, BRISTOW

“Prince William Forest Park has amazing trails and streams for adventurous pups! Locally, the Broad Run Trail is our fave. This photo of Kimber was taken on the Broad Run trail, on the Victory Lakes side. There’s a section that runs through the Braemar neighborhood, as well. It’s our favorite place to hang out!”

Dogs and their humans love a good stroll. It burns off excess energy, is good for the heart, and helps fight weight gain. Luckily for all of you local pup parents, there are several great places in this community to take your dog for a nice, long walk, but we wanted to know: what are your favorite spots? To find out, we posed the question on Facebook’s Western Prince William Chatter. Thanks to those who responded (and sent in photos of their sweet, four-legged family members), and special thanks to Susan Dakin for introducing us – and now you! – to Sniffspot.com.

MEGHAN CROMARTIE AND ALLIE MAE, BRISTOW

“Allie Mae loves the Stonebridge trails and walking the Manassas Battlefield!”

SUSAN DAKIN, BRISTOW

Locations & Information

Prince William Forest Park

18170 Park Entrance Rd, Triangle

Information: Facebook.com/ PrinceWilliamForestPark; nps.gov/prwi/index.htm

Manassas National Battlefield Park

6511 Sudley Rd, Manassas

Information: Facebook. com/ManassasBattlefield; nps.gov/mana

Broad Run Trail

Linton Hall

Informaton: Facebook.com/ BroadRunTrail

Sniffspot

Hosts rent their yards and private land to dog owners. Spots are designed to be safe and both hosts and guests are reviewed after each visit. Only you and your dogs are allowed to enter a spot during the time you've booked it. Find a great spot for your dog and/or become a host!

Information: Sniffspot.com

“There is a website called sniffspot.com where you can rent people's fenced-in yards. There is one in Nokesville that is about 3 acres fenced in. My dogs love it!”

RENEE PUTERBAUGH AND HER GRANDDOG, BELLA, GAINESVILLE

“My granddog Bella loves the dog park at Vint Hill. Whenever she visits, she just can’t wait to go there.”

ADRIANNE WILLIAMS AND BRODIE, NOKESVILLE

“Brodie loves the Battlefields. It’s his favorite place.”

With the weather still chilly and winter coats still hanging by the door, it may seem strange to start thinking about summer camps...but now is the time to plan. Experienced parents know that summer camps fill up fast and early.

The benefits of summer camps for children are undeniable. They expose children to a variety of people, places, and activities which help them gain independence and learn lifelong skills. Camps can also get kids unplugged and physically active, as well as providing a break for parents during the long days of school vacation.

This is also the time of year that parents may contemplate making a change in their children’s education, perhaps changing schools. If you’re thinking of investigating a private school education for the fall, now is the time to start.

That’s why we created this special advertising section for private schools and summer camps to get you started in planning both your child’s summer fun and their education for next year.

local business

First Impressions:

AVisit to Willow Animal Hospital

BY AMIE BOWMAN PHOTOS BY LUKE CHRISTOPHER

As a local resident who drives through Vint Hill a couple of times a month, I had seen the signs for Willow Animal Hospital go up in the fall of 2022. Located on Aiken Drive across from the theater, the building looked like any other on the former Army base. I was interested in the dog statue outside of the front door, and I appreciated the American flag flying in front of the building, but as I was content with my vet I never went inside. However, when my vet retired it seemed like the perfect opportunity to check out the new animal hospital in the area.

Big, Bright, and Clean

The first thing that struck me when I walked into Willow was how beautiful it is. The reception area is bright and airy, and there’s no smell of sickness or disinfectant as has been the case in every other vet’s office I’ve visited. The staff behind the receptionist’s desk is cheerful and friendly, and I barely had time to notice the cute decorations and huge waiting room with a large screen TV before Jennifer Cole, social media coordinator for the practice, met me for our tour.

The Team

The first person to whom I was introduced was Willow Animal Hospital’s owner, Dr. Kent Smith. A tall, charismatic man, Dr. Smith exudes joy. He simply loves his practice

and delights in his work. He enjoys his staff of four vets, one hospital manager, six front office coordinators, 15 vet techs, two support staff and Cole managing social media. Most of the staff I talked to followed Dr. Smith from other veterinary practices or were in their first jobs in veterinary medicine. “Dr. Smith is a great teaching doctor,” Cole said. “…having things explained is invaluable.”

She continued, “It’s like a family here. Dr. Smith creates an environment of trust not just for people who bring their pets in, but for those who work here. He’s a great leader, a great mood setter. He establishes a standard and sets a positive tone, and it carries over to the staff. As a team, we take care of each other, and in doing that, we care for our patients.”

Willow Animal Hospital has a team of four veterinarians: Top: owner of the practice Kent Smith, DVM with German Shepherd patient Todi; second row L-R Shannon Kasmierski, DMV, Andrea Ballou DVM, Laurel Marley, DVM

Innovative Treatment

Dr. Smith envisions Willow as a place where pets can receive a variety of specialty services in addition to routine wellness and urgent care, and the hospital already offers a variety of innovative treatment options for its clients. Dr. Smith’s colleague, Dr. Andrea Ballou, and his associates, Drs. Laurel Marley and Shannon Kasmierski, provide treatment options for animal health that not all veterinarians offer.

Dr. Ballou is a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP), which means that she has had extra schooling in drug-free methods to control pain, improve balance, and assist dogs who have had surgical or other orthopedic procedures.

Drs. Marley and Kasmierski bring similarly unique skill sets to Willow. Dr. Marley specializes in holistic animal medicine, which allows the hospital to fuse the best of both Eastern and Western medicine to treat clients. Dr. Kasmierski brings a feline specialist to the practice.

Treatment Areas

The last part of my visit involved a tour of the treatment areas. The walls throughout are painted in calming blue and green colors, and light fills every space in the building. The kennels are huge, and each has its own bedding. The post-surgical animals I saw also had heat lamps to ensure they were comfortable in recovery.

Willow’s isolation treatment area was particularly impressive. “Parvo and some of the respiratory diseases are so dangerous,” Cole explained, “we wanted an area

Fern the Possum

Social Media Manager Jen Cole keeps an active facebook page to keep clients engaged, featuring a Pet of the Week every week. At the beginning of January, Cole put the spotlight on a more unusual pet. Fern lives with a wildlife rehabber and is one of Dr. Smith’s patients.

to treat those animals without them having to ever enter the hospital.” To accomplish that goal, Willow’s isolation space opens directly to the outside, and the dedicated supply area boasts commercial laundry equipment. “After treating the animals, the staff’s protective clothing simply goes into the washer,” explained Dr. Smith.

Urgent Care

As all pet owners know, one of the hardest things is to have an emergency outside of regular business hours. At this time, Willow offers 24-hour emergency call-in services for their customers. After a phone consultation, regular clients can be seen in the office if necessary. But Dr. Smith also has plans for growth. “Our goal is to expand Willow to 18 hours a day, 7 days a week within the next 12 months.”

Commitment to Community

Veterinary care can sometimes be expensive, especially when a serious injury occurs, and Dr. Smith is very sensitive to that. Cole explained, “His number one priority is to the animal, so he is careful to offer as many options as he can as far as cost and payment plans.”

Despite being open for less than six months, Willow Animal Hospital has already become an important part of the pet rescue community. While I was there I heard stories of bottle feeding squirrels and kittens who had been abandoned and saw the cutest little seven week old pit bull puppy whom the staff had bottle fed with the rest of his litter. Willow works with several animal rescues to find homes for the discarded animals who find their way through its doors, and works to control the stray cat population through spaying and neutering feral cats in the area.

In addition to the care Willow provides animals, it also cares for its human community. “I will never not have an Autistic employee,” Dr. Smith promises. He values his opportunity to provide employment and job training for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and appreciates the unique skills and abilities these individuals bring to the workforce.

Final Impressions

The last space I walked through was the area where pet owners say their final good-byes to their animal companions. The soothing blue and green color scheme felt peaceful, and just outside the good-bye room was an external door which allowed grieving pet owners to leave the building privately.

Instead of turning left to exit the building, I turned right to go back to the receptionist area. I had found my new vet. L

Willow Animal Hospital

4228 Aiken Drive, Vint Hill 703-754-8000

Hours: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., Monday-Saturday; closed on Sundays willowvethospital.com

Above: Cat dental surgery with vet assistants Carlie Marshall (L) and Brooke Army (R). Inset: Receptionist Laurie Eller checks out client Candee Bond and her Irish Doodle, Penny, while Jen gives a farewell hug.

Catherine is a certified Laser and Skin Care specialist with 12 years experience. She specializes in non-invasive and minimally invasive skin rejuvenation procedures (Facials, IPL, Skin Tightening, Laser Hair Removal, Microdermabrasion, Skin Resurfacing, etc). She is able to customize your treatments to address and treat acne, scars, skin laxity, hyperpigmentation, sun damage and improving your skin’s tone and texture.

She keeps up to date with current medical aesthetics, products, procedures, devices and treatments to help her clients look and feel their best.

GAINESVILLE

Catherine P. Arzadon, MD GAINESVILLE OFFICE

worth a peek

“Identity & Restraint: Art of the Dog Collar”

on view at the National Sporting Library & Museum in Virginia through March 26, 2023

“The dog collar is, arguably, the oldest dog furnishing, and its purpose may be described as both one of identity and restraint. Since the domestication of canines, we have forged a strong bond with dogs — from hunting companions to sporting breeds as well as faithful pets. The dog collar is a symbol of the evolving relationship between humans and canines. The variety of styles that has developed over time — among them intimidating

spiked metal rings, utilitarian pieces, elaborately jeweled works of art, and leather finery — show how we tamed, bred, claimed, and came to love our dogs.”

“Identity & Restraint: Art of the Dog Collar” is an innovative traveling exhibition developed in partnership between the National Sporting Library & Museum (NSLM) and the American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog in New York, NY. This remarkable exhibition marries artwork spanning the 17th through 21st centuries with almost 70 vintage and antique dog collars from the NSLM’s collection. The largest publicly held holding of its kind, 187 collars were generously donated to the NSLM by Dr. and Mrs. Timothy J. Greenan. Paintings, works on paper, and sculptures on loan from the American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog and American Kennel Club collections help develop an understanding of the collar as both art and object and how its design changed in relation to different dog breeds and their evolving relationship. NSLM Executive Director Elizabeth von Hassell notes, “With shared aspects of our mission statements, being able

Zillah, Charles Hamilton (British, act. 1831–1867), Oil on mahogany panel, 16½ x 21 inches; Gift of the Cynthia S. Wood Estate

Dog Collar, Indian, possibly Goan, 18th century, horsehide leather, brass mounds, and agate cabochons, 11 x 3 inches; Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Timothy J. Greenan, 2014

AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB MUSEUM OF THE DOG

NATIONAL SPORTING LIBRARY & MUSEUM

to bring our collections together is a natural partnership.”

The exhibition is curated by NSLM’s Deputy Director and George L. Ohrstrom, Jr. Curator Claudia Pfeiffer, who celebrated her 10th anniversary as NSLM’s head curator this year. She edited the exhibition catalogue that accompanies “Identity & Restraint.” Included in it is an essay on the history of the dog collar by Dr. Greenan, who additionally offers his engaging insight as an inveterate collector. An avid sporting art enthusiast, Dr. Greenan noticed trends and purposes in collar designs which encouraged him to flesh out the collection to reflect his comprehensive understanding of their varied uses. He and his wife Jocelyn donated the collars to the NSLM along with his extensive research in 2014.

The art descriptions in the exhibition and catalog are contributed by Adjunct Curator and former Executive Director of the American Kennel Club Museum of the

Dog Alan Fausel. His life’s work in the field of art, as a professor, as a longtime appraiser on Antiques Roadshow, and, perhaps, most importantly, as a dog owner informs his conversational and engaging approach and enriches the visual experience.

The exhibition is organized to convey the variety of roles that dogs began to play over time and the honing of their breeding for hunting, vermin control, work, sporting pursuits, leisure, and domesticity. The journey begins with lion and bear hunting scenes with snarling mastiffs wearing sharp metal collars. They give way to portraits and dynamic renderings of prized gun dogs, sight and scent hounds, terriers, and representative collars; celebrations of champion show dogs and bloodlines; and, ultimately, the once fierce hunters becoming cherished companions with a multitude of bespoke and jewelry-like collar designs. Cumulatively, the visual survey reveals the multitude of shapes, sizes, and roles dogs have come to play in our world today.

The range of Flemish, Dutch, British, French, German, and American artworks and collars represent a multitude of art movements, genres, and time-periods, reinforcing the universal nature of the subject matter. Yet, they also record changing preferences for animal conformation and the establishment of the standards to which breeders aspire today. From the most diminutive works inviting closer contemplation to the scope and grandeur of the largest canvases, each displays a powerful narrative—of survival, of fear, of aggression, of adventure, of whimsy, of recreation, of sentimentality, of pride, and of love.

The NSLM in Middleburg will be the first venue for “Identity & Restraint: Art of the Dog Collar,” through March 26, 2023. It will then travel to the American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog in New York City and Pebble Hill Plantation in Thomasville, Georgia.

The Amsterdam Dog Market, Abraham Hondius (Dutch, c. 1631–1691), Oil on canvas, 38½ x 48½ inches; Gift of Robert Flanders in Memory of Walter F. Goodman

NATIONAL SPORTING LIBRARY & MUSEUM ON LOAN

THE AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB MUSEUM OF THE DOG

Dog Collar, Dutch, 1793, brass with modern felt lining, 16 x 1½ inches; Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Timothy J. Greenan, 2014

The GainesvilleHaymarket Rotary Club:

Creating lasting change locally and around the world

BY BETH LUNA PHOTOS BY LUKE CHRISTOPHER

You may be familiar with Rotary Club, at least by name. But do you truly know about the organization and the work its members do? The Rotary motto, Service Above Self, is a perfectly focused statement that leads Rotarians on an international scale in the work of the club. The Rotary.org website states that, “Rotary is a global network of 1.4 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change –across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.” To think that Rotary is active not only around the globe but here in Northern Virginia, helping the local community directly, is inspiring.

“Rotary is broken down by country and then state district, and our district encompasses most of Northern Virginia”, said Cyndi Cooke, Rotary Foundation Chair and past president, Rotary Club of Gainesville/ Haymarket. “The district is further broken down into different clubs throughout the region. Rotary was established in the 1920s as an all-men’s service organization; in those days, the businessmen had money to take on projects. Women were officially admitted in the mid-1980s; Rotary has since found what a powerhouse the women are!” she added, laughing. The Gainesville-Haymarket Rotary Club was founded in 2002 to serve Gainesville, Haymarket and Western Prince William County.

Rotarians are a varied group of business and profession-

al leaders who come together to work toward a better, healthier community. Cyndi, a Gainesville native, is a retired nurse, and she joins the approximately forty members of the chapter who work as human resource managers, landscape architects, graphic designers, financial advisors, writers, attorneys, and more. The group recruits year-round.

“Dues are $75 a quarter, and we meet for breakfast two times a month and lunch twice monthly,” said Cyndi. “We socialize and work together for the better of the community. Also, we no longer require members to attend meet-

Top: GainesvilleHaymarket Rotary Club outgoing president, Don McMillan. Bottom: Founded in 2002, the Club serves Gainesville, Haymarket, and Western Prince William County.

ings; we want people who want to help and be involved, regardless of their schedule.”

Generally, the local chapter had a varied concentration when it came to pledging community support. “We work on a lot of smaller initiatives,” Cyndi said. “We have raised funds to spread around – aid for Ukraine, many veteran-focused events and projects, support of Pace school with holiday baskets, event and library volunteers, teacher appreciation gifts, graduation celebration, school supplies, and more.” Rotary helped one teacher who needed some large home repairs, connecting her with professionals. “In another example, we provided a grant for CASA – one of our members is a retired attorney and he volunteers and advocates for them.” The list of support provided to the local community by Rotary Club is extensive, both through volunteer hours and dollars raised. However, members were thinking of a shift in concentration.

“We wanted to have one major, long term focus that we could help the community with,” Cyndi said. “We talked about it and considered a service project like building something major. What we ultimately have decided to latch onto is a mental health initiative for teens.” The group began talking to people about the mental health initiative and gained members because those people want to be involved. “My neighbor is a social worker, and she came to her first meeting for that very reason,” she added.

“We found that providers are slammed, and kids are in crisis,” Cyndi said. “Everything from internet influence to peer pressure, all exacerbated by COVID. After talking to health care providers and schools, we want to produce a parent education piece on what to look for and to help erase the stigma. We want to connect those in need with providers if the school isn’t able to do that. We don’t have the structure down yet – we just started working on it a couple of months ago – but we are moving forward.”

The group identified a house in Haymarket Park that is empty, and they plan to talk to the city about it. “We would like to turn it into a teen youth center, where kids

come hang out, play board games and socialize. Maybe we have volunteer counselors who can help to identify those kids who might be in trouble.” As part of their discovery process with mental health professionals, they found there were many people in need who can’t afford therapy. “We could come in and fundraise to cover that,” she said. “It is astounding to find out how many kids are really hurting right now when you talk to mental health professionals.”

The chapter also supports international initiatives alongside regional clubs, donating funds to different projects. “We have sent help through Rotary International for its Polio Plus campaign to eradicate polio, for water sanitation in Zambia, and more,” Cyndi said. “I helped West Springfield Rotary Club work with Sierra Leone – a country on the west coast of Africa – put seven teachers through the university for teaching, provide solar panels for electricity so they could do adult education at night, and provide a cell phone kiosk which is an income source for schools.”

Cyndi personally raises money in part to help with the Sierra Leone initiates with her longarm quilting business Creative Threads for Hope. “People bring me their pretty quilt tops and backing fabric, and I put the quilt together,” she said. “I have a longarm machine which sandwiches the three layers to complete the quilt with the help of software directing me where to stitch. We are currently using the quilts to raise money for a water filter project that will improve the lives of people who live in the three villages we work with by filtering up to 2000 liters of water a day.”

Rotary Club serves as a great vehicle for individuals who want to make friends, connect their business, and dig in to help fulfill needs in their own community and abroad. Check the Gainesville Haymarket Rotary Club website for membership information and fundraisers throughout the year. hg

Ghrotary.org

We have raised funds to spread around –aid for Ukraine, many veteran-focused events and projects, support of Pace school with holiday baskets, event and library volunteers, teacher appreciation gifts, graduation celebration, school supplies, and more.

wine&dine

Kiss the Cook on Valentine’s Day

BY KARLA JONES SEIDITA, HOME ECONOMIST

One bite of this easy-on-the-cook, Valentine’s Day dinner and your true love will cover you in kisses. The menu is a love feast of romantic flavors that waltz from course to course and end in a symphony of sweet surrender. It’s enough to make Cupid blush.

“Kiss the Cook Menu”

Quick Crab Bisque

Buttered Biscuits

Engagement Chicken

Honeyed Carrots

Wild Rice

Hearts of Palm and Fresh Greens Salad

Champagne Vinaigrette

White Chocolate Cheesecake

Espresso/Raspberry Tea

Quick Crab Bisque

You’ll find this recipe hard to believe and embarrassingly easy. Canned soup. A bouillon cube. A bit of cream and some crab. Whisk it all together and, like magic, you’ve got the very same, gorgeously delicious crab bisque that’s served in expensive restaurants. Good the day it’s made - better the next. This is bisque at its best.

SERVES 4 TO 6

INGREDIENTS

1 (10.75 oz.) can tomato soup (like Campbell’sundiluted)

½ cup split pea soup (like Amy’s - undiluted)

¾ cup chicken broth

1 chicken bouillon cube

½ cup heavy cream

8 oz. crabmeat (plus any liquid in the container)

1 ½ teaspoons brown sugar

¼ cup cream sherry

1/8 teaspoon pepper

¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

DIRECTIONS

Whisk everything together in a medium pot. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Simmer till the flavors get to know each other and the bouillon cube dissolves - about 3 minutes. Add a smidge more broth if you’d like it thinner.

PAIRS WELL WITH: CHARDONNAY

DuCard Vineyards 2021 Whetstone Chardonnay ($36) pairs beautifully with this bisque. Produced completely in stainless steel and hailing from its Whetstone Run vineyard, this Chardonnay expresses vibrant tropical notes and a hint of smokiness. ducardvineyards.com

Engagement Chicken

This iconic recipe for lemon and herb roasted chicken has been around for eons with tons of variations. It’s called “Engagement Chicken” because everyone who serves it gets a proposal. Here’s my version.

SERVES 2 TO 4

PAN SIZE - 9 X 13 X 2 INCH METAL PAN

INGREDIENTS

1 (4 to 5 pound) chicken

3 sweet onions (cut in half and sliced ¼ inch thick – about 3 cups)

1 whole lemon (seeded, peeled, white pith removed, and sliced into rounds)

1 1/4 teaspoons salt (divided)

1/2 teaspoon pepper (divided)

1 stick butter (softened - divided)

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 3/4 teaspoon dried rosemary)

½ cup chicken stock

GRAVY

1 Tablespoon all purpose flour

1 cup chicken stock (cool or room temperature)

¼ cup chopped fresh parsley leaves (no stems)

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Coat pan with cooking spray.

2. Toss the onions, 1 teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper, and ½ the softened butter in the pan.

3. Wash chicken. Pat dry with paper towels.

4. Place the lemon slices and thyme (or rosemary) in the chicken. Put the chicken in the pan (on top of the onions). It’s OK if the chicken doesn’t cover the onions. Tuck the wings under. Rub the chicken with the remaining butter then pour ½ cup chicken stock over the butter. Sprinkle with remaining salt and pepper.

5. Bake in preheated oven till juices run clear and the chicken has an internal temperature of 165 degrees – about 1 ½ hours. Longer if needed.

6. Remove the cooked chicken to a warm platter. Cover with foil. Let rest 15 minutes before carving. Leave the onions and any liquid in the pan.

7. For the gravy, dissolve the flour in the stock. Whisk into the pan of onions. Heat on the stove top until the mixture thickens, whisking to incorporate any bits from the pan into the gravy. Stir in the parsley. Carve the chicken. Discard the lemon. Serve with the gravy.

PAIRS WELL WITH: PINOT GRIGIO

Barboursville 2021 Pinot Grigio ($17) is an excellent choice for this dish. It’s extremely flavorful, with apple, pear, a touch of pineapple, and a gentle finish. bbvwine.com

COOK’S TIPS

• Be careful to remove all of the white pith from the lemon or the chicken and gravy will taste bitter.

• To use fresh herbs, double the amount of dried.

Hearts of Palm and Fresh Greens Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette

Could any salad sound more romantic? Hearts of Palm look like white asparagus but have a mild taste reminiscent of crab. An excellent vegan protein source, it’s used in all kinds of recipes. Available at grocery stores everywhere, usually in the pickle section.

SERVES 2 TO 4

INGREDIENTS

½ (12 to 14 oz.) can/jar Hearts of Palm (drained, rinsed and cut into bite size pieces)

4 cups baby salad greens mix

1 recipe Champagne Vinaigrette (recipe follows)

DIRECTIONS

Portion greens and Hearts of Palm on serving plates. Drizzle with dressing.

Champagne Vinaigrette

I could go on forever about champagne vinegar. Wonderfully mellow yet sophisticated, it transforms a basic vinaigrette into the most gossamer of dressings that clings and kisses the tender, baby greens.

INGREDIENTS

1/3 cup olive oil

1/3 cup champagne vinegar

2 cloves garlic (finely minced - about 1 teaspoon)

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 Tablespoon sugar

½ teaspoon salt

Pinch pepper

DIRECTIONS

Whisk everything together.

PAIRS WELL WITH:

CHAMPAGNE OR SPARKLING WINE

Pearmund Cellars’ Brut Reserve Sparkling Wine ($44) is the perfect accompaniment to this scrumptious salad. Crisp acidity, silky texture, and just the right amount of carbonation make this an incredibly refreshing sparkling. pearmundcellars.com

“Exceptional

Is you pet itching & scratching?

Are your pets itching & scratching? It’s a sign that something is wrong. When your pet scratches, it is irritating his/her sensitive skin. This can lead to infection with itchy and painful sores.

Are your pets itching & scratching?

It’s a sign that something is wrong. When your pet scratches, it is irritating his/her sensitive skin. This can lead to infection with itchy and painful sores.

It’s a sign that something is wrong. When your pet scratches, it is irritating his/her sensitive skin. This can lead to infection with itchy and painful sores.

Is you pet itching & scratching?

It’s a sign that something is wrong. When your pet scratches, it is irritating his/her sensitive skin. This can lead to infection with itchy and painful sores. Call us for an

White Chocolate Cheesecake

Could anything be more dangerously delicious? Just a few pulses in the food processor is all it takes. Make it a day or two in advance.

MAKES 1 (9 INCH) CHEESECAKE | SERVES 12 TO 16 PAN SIZE - 9 INCH SPRINGFORM

CRUST INGREDIENTS

1 ¼ cups fresh vanilla cake crumbs (like pound cake – purchased or homemade) (Lightly rub cake between palms of hands to crumble then measure)

FILLING INGREDIENTS

1 cup sugar

24 ounces cream cheese (softened)

2 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1 tablespoon apricot brandy

12 ounces (3/4 pound) white chocolate (like Ghirardelli)

16 ounces sour cream (at room temperature with liquid poured off)

Note: There are no eggs in this recipe

BAKER’S TIPS

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mist pan with baking spray.

2. Distribute cake crumbs evenly over pan bottom. Press down lightly. Set aside.

3. In the food processor, pulse together sugar, cream cheese, vanilla and brandy.

4. Melt the white chocolate in the microwave by heating then stirring in 30 second intervals until melted.

5. Pulse the melted white chocolate and cream cheese mixture together. Add the sour cream. Process until smooth.

6. Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake 30 minutes. Cheesecake will not look done.

7. Remove from oven. Cool 1 hour at room temperature then lightly cover and refrigerate 18-24 hours before cutting. The cheesecake firms in the fridge.

PAIRS WELL WITH: PORT

Stonetower Winery’s 2017 Wild Boar Porton ($55) is made from Norton Grapes and sourced from Middleburg. Catoctin Creek Brandy is used to fortify the wine and the combination of the two results in a silky-smooth port style wine. stonetowerwinery.com

• White chocolate does not melt like regular chocolate and must be stirred to liquefy. Overheating will thicken it then burn like a campfire marshmallow.

• Use regular cream cheese. Low fat, fat free, or whipped are not recommended.

• Find recipe-size, mini bottles of apricot brandy at the ABC store. L