Haymarket Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine June 2023

“IT SHOULDN’T BE THAT HARD TO BE EQUAL”

Celebrating Pride Month

A Little Rebellion is Good for the Soul

(AND FOR GETTING INCLUDED IN THE OSCARS SWAG BAGS!)

Bored Rebel founder, Stacy Flax, and model Richie Hanna of Re/Max Gateway, sporting their rebellious apparel.

resident Jackson Minniear

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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.

FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome to the June issue of Haymarket-Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine.

The month of June is jam packed. We’ve got Flag Day on the 14th and Father’s Day on the 18th. It’s also National Men’s Health Month and Pride Month.

Now I don’t know about you, but I’ve raised plenty of flags on Flag Day, celebrated my dad (and my husband) on lots of Father’s Days, and urged the men in my life to please go to the doctor (why won’t men go to the doctor?) in June and every other month of the year for years, but this is the first time I’m celebrating Pride month.

I hope you’ll join me and I hope you’ll start by reading Jennifer Waldera’s terrific piece, “It shouldn’t be that hard to be equal.” As Sal Russo, owner of Giuseppe’s Restaurant in Haymarket, said, “We should include everybody when we do things.”

I agree. And if you’ve ever suffered the heartache of watching your child be excluded from things time and time again because he or she is different, you will too.

Until next month, happy reading, and don’t forget to vote in this year’s Best of Haymarket-Gainesville Contest!

EDITOR Susan McCorkindale

The Lifestyle magazines are sister publications with Northern Virginia’s Leading News Source, INSIDENOVA.COM

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Rock the farm, grab the mic, and more this month to do list

Fetch drinks at the bar with your four and two-legged friends during A PUP’S VALLEY’S YAPPY HOUR AT OLDE DOMINION

TAVERN, Wednesday, June 7, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. Arrive early for complimentary appetizers from Olde Dominion Tavern and some treats for the pups, too! Olde Dominion Tavern, 5351 Merchants View Square, Haymarket. Please RSVP at yappyhourapv.eventbrite.com

Bring your A-game for TRIVIA WITH ANDY AVERY, Thursday, June 15, 7-9 p.m. at Trouvaille Brewery in Haymarket. Andy is coming straight from the classroom to the taproom to test your knowledge and the lucky winner will receive a $25 gift card! Trouvaille Brewery, 14600 Washington St., Haymarket

Bring your four-legged loved ones for a special dog walk and tasting though the vineyard at the WINERY AT LAGRANGE on Sunday, June 11 at 11 a.,m. Stop at tasting stations throughout and enjoy samples of estate wines. Each participant will also receive a complimentary K9’s in the Vines stemless glass to take home. Stay after for dog related vendors and adoptable dogs! Tickets: $25/person. wineryatlagrange.orderport.net/ wines/Tickets

THE MANASSAS BEE FESTIVAL is back! Saturday, June 24th, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Liberia House and Grounds. Talk with experts about native plants and responsible gardening. Enjoy honey and native bee demonstrations, face painting, live music, vendors, educational activities, food trucks, yoga on the lawn, a nature-themed haiku contest and, of course, a spelling bee! Liberia House and Grounds, 8601 Portner Ave., Manassas. The event is free. Visit ManassasBeeFestival.com for information.

PERFORMERS WANTED

Are you a gifted musician, songwriter, poet? Do you perform spoken word? Come on out and show off your talents at VITA NOVA CREATIVES & COFFEE’S OPEN MIC NIGHT on June 30. Signups begin at 5 pm and the event is from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Vita Nova Creatives & Coffee, 13051 Fitzwater Dr., Nokesville. To register: vitanovacreatives.com/events-andworkshops

Gather your lawn chairs, blankets, and friends, and get ready for a great evening of your favorite classic rock when ONE HOT MESS ROCKS THE FARM BREWERY. Saturday, June 10, 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. ; 16015 John Marshall Hwy., Haymarket

“PAWS” FOR A COLD ONE

ROCK THE FARM

WHAT’S THE BUZZ?

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Big Changes, Small Budget

BY YARON LINETT

We’ve been hearing from readers who have plans for their homes in the coming months and are interested in finding out how to achieve them without breaking the bank. The following questions and answers offer easy, actionable advice you can use to refresh your home rather cheaply, too! Have questions of your own? Send them to yaron@formaltraditional.com and you could see your answers in print.

I have a bright floral patterned sofa that I need to move into my living room. How can I create a cohesive look with my existing neutral pieces? Assuming the sofa isn’t a good candidate for a fitted slipcover, we would suggest pulling two of the colors from the floral pattern and incorporating them into your room. Candles are a quick and inexpensive way to add a touch of coordinating color to mantles or coffee tables. Replacing the matting on framed paintings or photos gets a bit on the walls, and a limited number of toss pillows can tie the color to the other furniture.

Pro Tip: The same concept can be used to change color schemes seasonally and packs away in a single box to boot.

I have a small bedroom with low ceilings and limited natural light. What are some design strategies to make the room feel more spacious and bright without replacing the windows?

Make the most of the light that you do have. Hang window treatments so that they obscure as little of the window glass as possible, keep treatments light and airy, and position mirrors in the room to bounce around the light that does enter. You would be amazed at what a well placed mirror can do.

Pro Tip: As much as people dread cleaning windows, if you haven’t done it recently you are losing more light than you realize. Clean them. It will be worth the effort.

I want to install new lighting fixtures in my kitchen, but I'm not sure which type of light source to choose. Should I go for recessed lighting, track lighting, or pendant lights?

Subjective stylistic decisions aside, you need to consider the three types of lighting. First you want to make sure you have general lighting. Think of this as lighting up the entire room on a cloudy day. Next you want task lighting. Under-cabinet lighting, whether puck, rope, or other styles, should allow you to see what you are preparing and keep you safe from burns or cuts. Lastly, consider accent lighting which can be above, below, or even inside your cabinets simply to bring attention to decorative elements.

Pro Tip: Pendants over an island are great, but don’t automatically rule out an appropriately sized and shaped chandelier.

I have a tight budget and limited DIY skills, but I want to update the look of my bathroom. Can you suggest some easy and affordable ways to make a big impact?

Replacing a shower curtain and bath mats really covers a lot of ground in making the bathroom feel like a new space. We would also suggest trading out your towels and, if your budget has room, getting coordinating luxurious bathrobes. Lastly, if you think you can handle it, consider changing out your shower head and exhaust fan.

Pro Tip: If you don’t already have a fan with an integrated light and bluetooth speaker, think about indulging in one and pamper yourself. L

Yaron Linett is the principal designer of Formal Traditional, a full-service design firm located in Northern Virginia.

Do you have a project you could use assistance with?

Send your questions in to yaron@formaltraditional.com and you too could see the solution in print.

Mitul Gandhi, MD

Jey Maran, MD

Robert Marsh, MD

Muhammad Siddiqui, MD (Palliative Care)

Geoffrey Moorer, MD

Tejas Suresh, MD

The Happiest Place on Earth

For athletes with special needs, soccer coach John Schlenker is a superhero

STORY AND PHOTOS BY LUKE CHRISTOPHER

“Ioften tell people that the ‘happiest place on earth’ is the Vint Hill Gym, just outside of Warrenton, Virginia, on Saturday mornings. The smiles and laughter are contagious, and the hugs are plentiful,” says Fauquier County resident John Schlenker, chairman of Virginia Youth Soccer Association (VYSA) TOPSoccer and director of TopSoccer for the Northern Piedmont Sports Club and the Virginia Soccer Association. In those few hours, for eight weeks every spring and fall, about a hundred athletes, buddies, volunteers, and parents from Fauquier County, Haymarket, and Gaines-

Kelly, of Prince William County, tees up a shot with a larger tethered ball to get limbered up.

Volunteers are Key

Schlenker has over 100 volunteers on his roster. Not all make it every week, of course, but he strives for an athlete to player ratio of 1:1. Schlenker is as passionate about encouraging young people to volunteer as he is about soccer. “Most of our volunteers are ages 13 and up,” said Schlenker, but he never turns anyone away. “If I have a 3 or 4 year old that wants to volunteer, I give them a yellow t-shirt and send them on in. It’s never too young to get hooked on volunteering.” He has had three volunteers that have won volunteering awards: Fauquier resident Abbey Wills and Prince William resident Patrick Casey have been named National TOPSoccer Buddies of the Year by US Youth Soccer, and Fauquier’s Lauren Schlenker was named TOPSoccer Buddy of the Year by the Virginia Youth Soccer association.

ville buzz around the bright space under Coach John’s gleeful direction. Schlenker’s nonstop energy is fueled by a passion for “the beautiful game” — and a cause deep in his heart which began when his daughter Katie, who has Down syndrome, expressed an interest in playing soccer like her siblings.

It’s been over 20 years since Schlenker started one of the first TOPS programs in Virginia. The Outreach Program for Soccer, or TOPS, is a recreational sports program for children and adults with intellectual, emotional, or physical disabilities. TOPS also focuses on developing social and communication skills as well as improving the overall physical fitness of the athletes.

Parents have nothing but accolades for the program and the changes they’ve observed in their children. “Holly has demonstrated hard work and perseverance in improving both her soccer skills and her social skills,” writes Sheri Knowlton. “TOPSoccer has provided her a safe and welcoming environment to be herself.”

“Our son Parker has been coming to TOPSoccer for 12 years and each year I have seen growth in different areas. In the early years it was becoming comfortable meeting

All athletes receive a free soccer ball, equipment and uniform, families are never charged a fee, and all coaches are unpaid volunteers. TOPS volunteers have won national volunteering awards.

Team manager Beth Brooks of Prince William County makes sure the day goes smoothly by getting all the families in and out with ease. Her daughter, Aly, is an avid participant of the program. Pictured with John Schlenker

Lania of Fauquier County enjoys the rainbow tunnel, a fun exercise to boost the spirit between the sessions.

new friends, then it was about learning the sport and now it’s all about improving his skill and scoring goals. He always looks forward to Saturday mornings,” writes Sherri Parker.

“The skills [Hattie] learned or observed, listening, sharing, teamwork, coordination and motor skills, last a lifetime,” writes Katherine Wears.

“Carson’s been going to TOPSoccer since he was elementary school and used to walk with a walker. Now he’s in high school and walks with forearm crutches. Coach John visited Carson when he was in the hospital after our car accident. As a family we often go to eat afterwards and the topic always is how many goals Carson made or how his passes assisted his teammates so they scored! We truly love TOPSoccer and Coach John!” said Kelly Powell. L

TOPS runs for eight weeks in the spring and fall. Visit vysa.com for more information.

Even the parents join in on the fun of the parachute drill.

Carson, left, from Prince William County, used to walk with a walker. Now he’s graduated to forearm crutches.

BY JENNIFER WALDERA

A LITTLE REBELLION GOOD FOR SOUL

Haymarket’s Stacy Flax quit corporate long before working from home became the new normal. Burnt out from endless hours, in 2018 Flax flexed and left her full-time work which had initially begun in finance and eventually led to various roles from business strategy to strategic development working with C-Suite executives at Fortune 500 companies. By 2022, she’d harnessed her creativity, talent, and business acumen to build a brand that landed her newly-created and innovative apparel from her brand Bored Rebel in 2023’s Academy Awards swag bags.

Flax’s Bored Rebel introduced an entirely new concept of graphic undershirts, filling a void for those who want more than the traditional boring tee to wear under professional shirts (and for their partner who wants them to hang out in a decent shirt after stripping off their but ton-down at the end of the day).

After leaving her job, Flax volunteered, engaged in hobbies, and admittedly watched a whole lot of Netflix while looking for her next path. She eventually became enthralled with graphic design and then, as a stroke of luck, her husband’s undergarments became her inspiration.

“I walked into the master bathroom and his underwear were on the floor. They were these skull and crossbones underwear but the undershirt was boring. It bothered me and I wondered if there was something better out there,” Flax said.

(AND FOR GETTING INCLUDED IN THE OSCARS SWAG BAGS!)

LITTLE REBELLION IS FOR THE

BY LUKE CHRISTOPHER

Bored Rebel founder, Stacy Flax, and model Richie Hanna of Re/Max Gateway in Haymarket, sport their rebellious apparel at Bull Run Golf Club. Bottom left: Containers of Bored Rebel’s graphic undershirts that were included in this year’s Academy Awards swag bags.

Bottom right: Stacy’s husband, Karl Serafin, models for the brand pretty frequently. “He’s an engineer,” said Stacy, “so he’s super patient about it!”

She scoured the web only to find that, indeed, no one else was producing undershirts that were interesting for professionals who needed to wear them under their button-down shirts.

Flax then did her research on how best to design an interesting tee that wouldn’t be seen under a professional shirt which, especially when light-colored, can reveal any patterns or designs. She worked with light inks but found that the color still showed through. With more research, she learned that the placket part of the shirt (where the buttons and buttonholes are) is lined many more times than the rest of the shirt -- and that nothing shows through it.

From there the brand was born. After tons of testing of materials, Flax finally found the shirts with the right feel, durability, and design (including being wicking) that she wanted to emblazon with interesting or inspiring quotes straight down the middle, and that are hidden by the placket.

Whether buyers want motivation with quotes like “remember who you are” or the bestseller, “Unleash Your Inner Superhero” to snarky messages like “I’m planning my escape” and “Not paid enough for this”, Flax has the perfect Bored Rebel tee to slay the day. Plus, she even has a special wedding line.

“We have four different [primary] lines: awesome, badass, miffed, and sentimental -- and I’m super excited

Below right: Lash Fary of Distinctive Assets, the company responsible for putting the bags together, is credited for inventing celebrity swag bags. Below left: Bored Rebel’s graphic undershirts are designed not to show under a dress shirt. So only you’ll know you’re wearing one that says “Smartest Person in the Zoom,” or “Khakis on the outside. Rebel on the inside.”

about the wedding collection that just launched. We just started selling them and they’re really fun and exciting. There’s over 100 different shirts for the groom, groomsmen, and father of the bride.”

Flax’s line of unique tees are wearable for both men and women and are available online but also at select stores like Patrick’s Fine Linens and Home decor in Tyson’s Corner and DC. Patrick’s owner Troy Englert can only sing Flax’s praises.

“We’re so proud to represent her products in the stores and I’m so happy for her -- there couldn’t be a more deserving person,” Englert said. “She’s just refreshing, the design is refreshing, and her outlook on life and where she wants to take her brand is fabulous. It’s a great product and a great design.”

As for Flax’s future, she hopes to continue to build the brand as well as give back to communities. She has a passion for supporting workforce development charities and has already worked closely with A Wider Circle in Silver

Spring, Maryland. She also hopes to be able to continue to work alongside, and help, other entrepreneurs as well as foster conversations about mental health, particularly related to the type of burnout that she endured.

“I felt ashamed about it and no one should ever feel ashamed for feeling burnt out. I came out of it and got better and stronger. Covid happened and people began feeling more comfortable talking about mental health. That made it easier for me to speak out about mental health now and the more we talk about it the more we reduce it.” Flax said. “I hear about other people’s experiences with mental health and burnout all of the time.”

While Flax is focused on the future, she’s also grounded in the present, laser-focused on making graphic undershirts “a thing” -- and on giving clients what they want.

“On all of the shirts I have printed on the inner seam on the back: “Under it all, I’m a rebel”.

I almost got rid of it because it was expensive but then when people found it they loved it and they said: It’s my favorite part!”

“So many of us feel that way -- we’re all a little rebellious.” L

EXCLUSIVE!

Haymarket-Gainesville Lifestyle has been

Join us for the monthly meeting of the Haymarket-Gainesville Business Association (HGBA), where local businesses and not-for-profits come together to network, share information, and contribute to community projects. Meetings are held every third Tuesday of the month, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Visit our website at hgba.org for the latest information.

Established in 1990, the HGBA was formed by a group of local professionals and business owners who saw the potential in the area. Since then, the organization has evolved to meet the ever-changing needs of the community due to massive growth. As a 501(c)(6) non-profit, all-volunteer organization, HGBA provides a forum for information sharing and community contributions that positively impact both businesses and residents.

Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to meet with fellow business owners and not-for-profit organizations in the area. Whether you're a long-standing member or a newcomer, everyone is welcome at HGBA's monthly meetings. We look forward to seeing you there!

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“IT SHOULDN’T BE THAT HARD TO BE EQUAL ”

For Sal Russo and James Cornwell, it’s all about inclusion

BY JENNIFER WALDERA

PHOTOS BY LUKE CHRISTOPHER

Giuseppe's in Haymarket is known for two things: its homestyle Italian food and its support of the local community.

On an almost weekly basis, it hosts local musicians like Haymarket's Derek Thistle, live comedy shows with local comics like Rahmein Mostafavi (also of Haymarket), and recently a battle of the chefs between Bristow's Cheryl Strzemiensk of Cake is My Friend in Bristow and Paul McHenry of Poppi's Gourmet Hot Sauce in Warrenton.

Hearty Italian classics and unwavering support for the community are two things Giuseppe's is proud to serve.

So it should come as no surprise that the restaurant was happy to support the area's LGBTQIA+ (the inclusive abbreviation for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, asexual, and more) community when it was approached about hosting a drag brunch.

“I don’t believe in discrimination of any form. We should include everybody when we do things," said Sal Russo, whose parents opened the restaurant (formerly known as Joe’s Pizza and Subs) over 25 years ago. "I’m just a restaurant owner who decided to give the LGBTQ community a voice.”

While there was an outpouring of support from some members of the community, not everyone was enthused to hear about the drag brunch. Backlash against the restaurant came in the form of criticism on its Facebook page where it had advertised the private, ticketed event being held in their event space. And that's when James Cornwell, co-owner of Iva Bella Salon in Vint Hill and founder

From left: Sandra Packwood, owner, DejaVu Anew, James Cornwell, co-owner, Iva Bella Salon and founder of Fauquier Pride and Warrenton Pride, Vanessa Murphy, owner, Painted Fox, and Sal Russo, owner, Giuseppe’s Restaurant.

of Fauquier Pride and Warrenton Pride stepped in.

Fauquier native James Cornwell is a hair designer, makeup artist, and clothing stylist who has traveled the world to represent major beauty brands and to style the likes of Jessica Alba, Alyssa Milano, Paula Abdul, and America Ferrera. After living in other locales like Capitol Hill and Los Angeles, Cornwell returned to Fauquier and, in conjunction with his sister-in-law, opened Iva Bella. In recent years, Cornwell has also taken on the role of an activist within Fauquier, supporting the LGBTQIA+ community through his nonprofits Fauquier Pride and Warrenton Pride.

Being a proponent of equality isn’t new to Cornwell. He recalls being bullied in middle school for standing up for female classmates. While growing up, he also remembers feeling like he was different as a member of the then largely unrecognized LGBTQIA+ community in Fauquier. Cornwell’s passion for fighting for the rights and acceptance of everyone was what inspired his desire to create both Pride organizations.

“There’s a need for a safe place for people to have communication. There was no Pride page or recognition for people in the community that we even exist. I wanted to do something that, even if it touches one person’s life, makes them feel not afraid or not alone,” Cornwell said.

It’s with that in mind that Cornwell began both Fauquier Pride and Warrenton Pride as a means of providing support and resources to the area’s LQBTQIA+ community. The organizations are still growing and Cornwell says that the response so far has been primarily positive.

While websites are still in the making, Cornwell’s Pride non-profits’ primary online presence exists on Facebook and Instagram. Posts range from advertising Pride events in surrounding areas, sharing educational information, and announcing meetings to spreading messages of equality and support and celebrating individuality.

“It’s about the celebration and truly the acknowledgment and education and advocacy within our community so that we can continue to move forward, share experiences, and help the community as they embrace the movement,” Cornwell said.

Cornwell also notes that there is a growing representation among allies within the community that ranges from individuals expressing support and reaching out for resources to better support their LGBTQIA+ loved ones to businesses that are openly engaging with the community and organizations that are supporting the mission of Fauquier Pride and Warrenton Pride. Cornwell credits several organizations with supporting the organizations, including the PATH Foundation for providing Fauquier Pride with a Better Together contribution, designed for nonprofits to

bring the community together through in-person gatherings.

“They’ve been a wealth of information -- they have so many resources and advocacy to help non-profits -- they’ve been hugely supportive.”

Cornwell also points to Sandra Packwood of the boutique-style consignment shop Deja Vu Anew as an ongoing ally and someone who has always made her shop a welcoming space for LGBTQIA+ members of the community. Similarly, Painted Fox owner Vanessa Murphy (known in the community as Murph) has created a LGBTQIA+-friendly space with educational books and other related merchandise. On Old Town Warrenton’s Main Street, the tattoo shop proudly flies a queer flag and Murphy is enthusiastically supportive of Cornwell’s movement.

“James came to our Pride event and was handing out Warrenton Pride stuff. We’ll support him with anything he does,” Murphy said.

The support isn’t a one-way street, either. When Cornwell learned of online backlash against Giuseppi’s, for advertising and hosting the drag brunch, he pledged to help promote the event. It ultimately garnered a packed house with

When Cornwell learned of online backlash against Giuseppi’s, for advertising and hosting the drag brunch, he pledged to help promote the event. It ultimately garnered a packed house with tickets entirely sold-out.

tickets entirely sold-out. The event was so popular that the restaurant held a subsequent drag brunch and has pledged to continue to do so. Cornwell and Russo weren’t previously acquainted prior to the onset of the online incident, but Cornwell has high praise for Russo and Russo is just as avid a proponent of equal rights as Cornwell is.

Cornwell intends to continue forward with his grassroots movement, building his organizations and working with members of the community like Sal Russo and Giuseppe's to promote awareness and garner support. Meanwhile, he’s enthusiastic about the progress of the organizations so far, including an upcoming fall Fauquier Pride fundraising event, a proposed festival in 2024, and the inaugural Pride flag-raising on June 1, with a proclamation from the mayor recognizing Pride month, all supporting the concept of equality and inclusion.

As for Giuseppe’s, Russo appreciated Cornwell’s support which ultimately

helped to attract an enthusiastic crowd to the event and says they’ll continue to host drag brunches at the restaurant.

“James said he would support us and make sure that it would be a sold-out event, and it was. It was a great day -everyone had fun” said Russo.

“I’ve always believed in my heart and my mind that we’re all fighting truly for the same thing -- equality, rights,” Cornwell said. “We shouldn’t be judged by who we love, what we wear, whether we’re a man or a woman, the tone of our skin… it shouldn’t be that hard to be equal.” L

“I’ve always believed in my heart and my mind that we’re all fighting truly for the same thing -equality, rights”

Meet Haymarket’s Jackson Minniear

A Little Boy with a Big Heart

BY FRANNIE BARNES PHOTOS BY LUKE CHRISTOPHER

Last December, Haymarket resident Jackson Minniear, 7, was listening to the radio and heard a young girl talking about donating dog food to shelters. This piqued his interest because he knew people donated food to shelters for humans, but hadn’t thought about animals in need before. Jackson looked at his mom and said, “Mom, I want to do that for my birthday.” When his mom asked him why, he simply said, “Because dogs and cats need toys so they can be happy while they’re in the shelters.”

Jackon knew there were many animals waiting for their forever homes that didn’t have comforts like a cozy bed, toys, and food (outside of what shelters provide), and he wanted to make sure they got these things.

How did Jackson know this? His family has been long-time supporters of the Middleburg Humane Foundation and a family friend works for an animal shelter in Fairfax. For his birthday, Jackson made a wish list and chose pet items from Amazon. His family friend helped by offering advice.

Jackson’s other connections to rescue animals included their family cat, Nubbins, a rescue who had recently passed away. As any pet owner knows, that left an indelible mark on his heart. Jackson wanted to make a difference.

Jackson compiled a list of cat and dog toys. These comprised tug-of-war, squeaky toys, frisbees, cat toys with feathers and balls with bells. He also chose items like cat and dog beds, cooling towels and mats, cleaning supplies, food, and treats. Basically, everything you could possibly need for pet care and happiness was on the list. And shortly after they published the list on Amazon, there was very little left to buy.

8,800 donations came from near and far; Jackson received donations from local friends and family, as well as family and friends who

A Bit About Jackson

Aside from Jackson’s huge heart and love of animals, he’s a typical sevenyear-old boy who loves sports, Disney movies, and video games.

FAVORITE MOVIE: Toy Story

FAVORITE CHARACTER: Buzz Lightyear

FAVORITE SHOW: Sonic the Hedgehog

FAVORITE SPORTS TEAM: Arizona Cardinals

FAVORITE

ICE CREAM: Vanilla with rainbow sprinkles

FAVORITE SPORT TO PLAY: Flag football (he’s an excellent running back)

NEXT ANIMAL HE’D LIKE TO ADOPT: Guinea pig or lizard

HOW HE FEELS ABOUT SCHOOL: Loves it and excels in it

HIS FAVORITE CLASS: Music

live in other states, some as far as Arizona. The food items were sent to the Middleburg Humane Foundation and the toys, beds, and other comfort items were brought to the Fairfax County Animal Shelter.

When asked why he chose to donate to shelters instead of receiving gifts for himself for his birthday, Jackson said, “Because one day on the radio a Grandpa called in and he said his granddaughter wanted to get dog food to donate to shelters because her birthday is close to Christmas. I thought that was cool so Mommy let me have the whole day to think about it. And instead of dog food I wanted to do dog and cat food and toys.”

Jackson’s favorite donated dog toy was a squeaky toy that looks like a television remote. Other top picks included a dog toy in the shape of a poop emoji (which made him giggle as he explained why) and a Toy Story toy of Woody. His favorite cat toy was a stuffed piece of sushi.

“This is par for the course with Jackson,” his mom, Laura Minniear, said. “From a young age he’s had a giving heart. Always keeping an eye out for younger kids to make sure they’re okay. I call him the protector of the people all the time.”

Apparently, he’s the protector of the animals too. L

Middleburg Humane Foundation

5000 Cunningham Farm Drive

Marshall, VA 20115

middleburghumane.org

Fairfax County Animal Shelter

4500 West Ox Road

Fairfax, VA 22030 fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter

From left: Jackson with his favorite dog toy, surrounded by many of the nearly 9,000 items donated to his fundraiser, and playing with a rescue cat at the Middleburg Humane Foundation. Below: The “protector of the people” - and animals, with parents Laura and Justin, and little sister Emerson, age 4.

Ask 86-year-old Jimmy Baird of Bealeton when he first fell in love with trains, and you may not get a straight answer.

“I can’t remember when I wasn’t.” As director of the Piedmont Railroader, a Warrenton-based group of railroad enthusiasts, Baird loves to talk about railroads big and small. He has and has operated his own scenic railroad which carries tourists on twice-weekly excursions through picturesque farmland outside of Frederick, Md. with his son David for the past 32 years.

“Scenic trains are good for the local economy. Tourists stay in local hotels. They buy things in local shops…and eat at local restaurants.”

Unfortunately, scenic railroads are almost like an endangered species. Having ridden more than a dozen scenic railways all over the United States, “We’ve seen so many come and go. The truth is, it’s a very difficult thing to do right.”

So they were delighted to hear last August about the opening of the state’s newest scenic railroad, the Virginia Scenic Railway which operates from the Staunton Amtrak station.

“I think it’s absolutely wonderful, the best thing that could happen, that we have one close by.”

On the Right Track

Virginia Scenic Railway in Staunton is a big hit

BY BILL KENT PHOTOS COURTESY OF VIRGINIA SCENIC RAILWAY

The Engineer

Down in Staunton, Steve Powell, president of the 275-mile Buckingham Branch Railroad, a southern Virginia freight line based in Dillwyn, is living his dream.

Not terribly thrilled with the model trains his dad built for him as a child, he preferred to accompany him to work. “My Dad worked for CSX. I got to ride up front with the engineer. It was a whole different world.”

Now, with a Virginia Tech degree in mechanical engineering, Powell says he has “real trains to play with.” Aside from Buckingham Branch, Powell is also the entrepreneur behind the Staunton’s Virginia Scenic Railway.

Laying the Track

Powell’s goal was to create a unique experience combining the thrill of a train ride, breathtaking scenery of the Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains, and an upscale dining experience, all in a cozy, nostalgic railway passenger car departing from the historic mid-19th century Amtrak station.

“It all goes back to the view,” he said. “When you’re on a train, you go over bridges. You go through tunnels. Sometimes you have to go on a siding and wait for another train to pass you, and that train comes so close to you can’t believe the trains aren’t touching. You get to appreciate the incredible engineering that has gone into building the railroad.”

Join

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It took two years to restore a 1940 Budd Company stainless steel 34-seat dining car with cherry and maple wood trim. “I wanted American wood. I wanted the inside to feel comforting,” he said. He found a General Motors GP38 Norfolk Southern diesel locomotive to pull the car.

While the passenger rail cars are historic, they have been retrofitted and modernized with all the 21st-century conveniences visitors are used to. Expect ultra-comfortable seats, exceptional service, modern restrooms, and Wi-Fi.

Above all else, Powell did not want anyone on the three-hour trip to be bored. The staff is trained to tell stories, not only of the railroad, but of the towns, the history, the stories, and fun railroad facts.

And there would be no pokey train rides on Powell’s watch. After riding other scenic trains for comparison, he said, “They went too slow! There is a unique feeling of motion when you’re on a train. Ten miles, 15 miles an hour is boring. Any train on my line would have to go at least 25 mph.”

And considering that eating on a train is part of the entertainment, he wanted the food and service to be as good as it could possibly be. Visitors choose from a menu offering sandwiches, salads, and soups as well as three classic desserts and non-alcoholic beverages.

Hitting it out of the Park

From the day Conductor Travis Carter called out his first “All aboard!”, tickets started selling fast. Getting a seat on the Virginia Scenic has become like scoring a table at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Nearly every ticket sells out two months in advance, with many repeat riders.

The train does two different excursions each day, with the train passing so close to cliffs and rock cuts that you feel you could almost touch them. The west bound Goshen excursion is the more restful, showing off the rural splendor of the Shenandoah Valley. The eastbound trip to Ivy swoops through the Little Rock Tunnel and the nearly-mile-long Blue Ridge Tunnel built by Claudius Crozet.

The excursions are fun for any age. “We’ve had folks celebrate anniversaries and birthdays. We’ve celebrated with toddlers all the way up

Ticket Advice

The rides are so popular that they book up quickly, but be sure to check back often and keep an eye on social media: tickets are released in batches periodically so everyone has a chance.

Special Occasions

Also keep an eye out for themed events on holidays throughout the year, and at Christmas time try Santa’s Scenic Railway, a magical, roundtrip 40-minute train ride that features dazzling views of holiday lights, sparkly Christmas trees, delectable treats, holiday music, and, of course, Santa and his Missus.

to one fellow who was over 100,” said Carter. And people are thrilled with the experience. Linda Trainum of Waynesboro said, “My husband and I tried an excursion on Virginia Scenic Railway for our anniversary. We were blown away by the experience. Everything was spotless and shiny, the service was excellent, the food was delicious, and the scenery was gorgeous. Virginia Scenic Railway hit it out of the park in every single way.”

Powell also has his eye on additional routes and scenic railways throughout Virginia. “This train has been more successful than we believed. I can’t wait to see where it’s going to take us.”

All aboard! L

12 Middlebrook Ave., Staunton 434-391-9772

virginiascenicrailway.com

FB: @ VirginiaScenicRailway

Steve Powell, President Buckingham Branch Railroad and Virginia Scenic Railway

mushrooms!

These scrumptious guardians of the forest are great grilled, roasted, and raw

BY KARLA JONES SEIDITA, HOME ECONOMIST

There’s just something deliciously elegant about mushrooms. Those scrumptious guardians of the forest who tip-toe over a floor of mossy green carpet in search of the dappled sunlight that peeks through its shady umbrella of trees. Grill them, roast them, saute them in a pan or eat them raw. There’s thousands of wonderful ways to enjoy mushrooms.

Hot roast beef sandwiches smothered in mushroom gravy. Mushroom omelets with creamy cheese-y sauce. Stuffed mushrooms. Mushroom pizza. And, the always yummy, mushroom soup that sits patiently on a pantry shelf waiting to be heated and served with saltines. Is there anything better than a mushroom filled life?

But here’s something you may not know - mushrooms can swap for meat. Yes, really! Mushroom bacon. Mushroom pate. Mushroom BBQ and more. Meat lovers have been known to lick their mushroom meat plates clean. Let’s get into the kitchen!

Mushroom BBQ

This is WOW on a bun. Who knew BBQ could be vegan? Better make extra. The meat lovers will want to try this!

MAKES 4 SANDWICHES

INGREDIENTS

16 oz. portobello mushrooms

6 Tablespoons vegetable oil (any kind)

2/3 cup of your fav BBQ sauce (to taste)

1 cup water

DIRECTIONS

Cut mushrooms into ¼” slices. Heat oil in a large skillet. Add the sliced mushrooms. Cook on medium, uncovered and stirring occasionally, until their liquid evaporates and they start to brown –about 10 minutes. Stir in the BBQ sauce and water. Continue cooking until the sauce has reduced to a thickness you like. Serve on soft buns topped with slaw like any BBQ.

Mushroom Pate (aka Vegan Chopped Liver)

Call it pate or call it chopped liver. Whatever you call it, this is divine stuff to dollop onto fancy crackers or schmear onto bagels.

MAKES ABOUT 2 CUPS

INGREDIENTS

1 cup walnuts

2 Tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion (sliced –about 1 cup)

6 cloves garlic (about 1 Tablespoon)

8 oz. portabella or baby bella mushrooms (sliced - about 3 cups)

¼ cup dried parsley

1 Tablespoon dried rosemary

1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon salt (to taste)

¼ teaspoon pepper (to taste)

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Put the walnuts into an ungreased shallow pan. Bake till lightly browned – about 5 minutes. It’s OK if they get a little dark but don’t let them burn. Cool. Set aside.

2. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet. Add the mushrooms, onions and garlic. Cook over medium/low heat, uncovered and stirring occasionally, until the mushroom liquid has evaporated – about 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in the browned walnuts. Cool then chill at least 2 hours. Longer is OK.

3. Puree the chilled mixture. Refrigerate before serving.

Easy AlfredoMushroom

Love mushrooms? Pasta? Creamy cheese-y sauce? Bring them all together for a dining event that’s too extravagant for words. Fancy enough for a dinner party yet easy enough for a hurry up meal. Make this once and you’ll never buy that overpriced stuff in a jar again!

SERVES 4 TO 6

INGREDIENTS

3 Tablespoons olive oil

1 stick butter (divided)

16 oz. mushrooms (sliced - any type or a combo)

4 oz. cream cheese (light, whipped or fat free not recommended)

2 teaspoons garlic powder

1-1/2 cups milk (dairy or plant)

¼ teaspoon pepper

1 (6 oz.) package shredded Italian Cheese Blend (Parmesan, Romano and Asiago)

FOR SERVING:

1 (8 to 12 oz.) box fettuccine (cooked and drained)

Garnish – chopped, fresh parsley (no stems)

DIRECTIONS

1. Melt oil and 3 Tablespoons butter in a large skillet. Saute mushrooms over medium heat, uncovered and stirring occasionally, until they start to brown and almost all of their liquid has evaporated – about 10 minutes. Set aside.

2. In a medium pot, mix the remaining 5 Tablespoons butter, cream cheese, garlic powder, milk and pepper. Simmer, uncovered and whisking, over medium/ low heat until smooth, slightly thickened, and gently bubbling – about 2 minutes. Add shredded cheese and stir until melted – about 1 minute. Fold in the sauteed mushrooms and any liquid. Toss with hot fettuccine. If desired, add a splash of additional hot milk for the consistency you like. Sprinkle with parsley.

Mushroom Bacon

Don’t eat bacon for religious, health or ethical reasons? Surprise! You don’t have to give up bacon – just swap mushrooms for the pork. Use the mushroom bacon in recipes, over salads - even make a BLT. Use only shitake mushrooms and bake them dark or this won’t taste bacon-y.

MAKES ½ CUP BACON CRUMBLES

INGREDIENTS

5 to 6 oz. shiitake mushrooms (no subs)

2 Tablespoons olive oil

¼ teaspoon salt

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a shallow pan with foil, shiny side up. Lightly coat with cooking spray. Cut mushrooms into random ¼ inch strips. Put onto foil lined pan. Sprinkle with oil and salt. Toss to coat. Spread mushrooms into a single layer. Bake 30 minutes. Turn mushrooms over and continue baking till the second side is dark but not burned. Remove from oven. Cool on pan. Store in the fridge or freezer.

Marinated Mushroom Salad

So easy. So fast. So good.

SERVES 4 TO 6

INGREDIENTS

10 oz. cherry tomatoes (cut tomatoes in half - about 2 cups)

8 oz. raw white mushrooms (sliced - about 2 cups)

1/4 cup of your favorite Italian dressing (to taste) Zest of 1 thick skinned orange (about 1 Tablespoon)

DIRECTIONS

Mix. Chill. L

Local Mushroom Farms

Place farm orders in advance by phone or online. Pick up at the farm by appointment. For purchasing at Farmers Markets, contact the farm and ask for info.

CATLETT

Won Shan Mushrooms Co. wonshanmushrooms.com

GOLDVEIN

Rock Run Creek Farm

FaceBook only – no web site

Lovettsville Quartzwood Farm quartzwoodfarm.com

MANASSAS

The Fruitful Forest thefruitfulforest.com

CAN’T GET TO A FARM?

Try Wegman’s!

Rt. 29/Gainesville

While all grocery stores sell mushrooms, Wegman’s has the biggest and best selection of grocery store mushrooms in our area including the extravagant and elusive truffle.

New farmer’s market sprouts up in Manassas

Look! Up in the tree! It’s Chuck Beary!

Recently, a young black bear was spotted up a tree along busy Garrisonville Road in Stafford County. Sheriff's deputies quickly named the cutie Chuck Beary, and kept an eye on him for everyone's safety.

Wildlife experts say it’s the time of year when Virginia’s black bears are foraging for food and young bears search for new territory, just like our sweet boy Chuck.

Prince William County’s Animal Control Bureau offers the following tips and suggestions for dealing with hungry bears:

Sprouts Farmers Market has opened its first store in Prince William County. The organic food and grocery store cut the ribbon last month on its new 26,000-square-foot space at Manaport Plaza, 8431 Sudley Road, in Manassas.

The store showcases the company’s signature organic produce, local favorites and focuses on healthy, sustainably sourced brands, according to a news release.

Shoppers will find Sprouts Farmers Market's fresh produce section in the center of the store. The company also offers traditional grocery store departments, including meat, poultry, seafood, deli and baked goods, as well as a fresh sushi department.

• Remove food sources that might attract bears. This includes bird feeders, garbage, pet food, outdoor grills, livestock food, compost, fruit trees and beehives.

• Do not store trash – or anything that smells like food – in vehicles, on porches, or decks. Keep your full or empty trash containers secured in a garage, shed or basement. If you do not have a trash collection service, take your garbage to the Landfill frequently (twice a week or more). If you do have a trash collection service, put your garbage out the morning of the pickup rather than the night before.

• Take down your bird feeders temporarily until the bear moves on.

• Consider installing electric fencing, an inexpensive and extremely efficient proven deterrent to bears, around dumpsters, gardens, beehives or other potential food sources. Bears generally avoid humans but, in their search for food, they do wander into suburban areas. It is best to keep a respectful distance if you see a bear. Bring your pets inside and leave the immediate area.

VRE stepping up for riders

Virginia Railway Express passengers will soon be able to ride certain overlapping Amtrak routes for no additional charge.

The train operator is planning to restart its StepUp program, which allows multi-ride VRE passholders to ride select Amtrak Northeast Regional trains between Fredericksburg and D.C.’s Union Station at no additional charge.

Northern Virginia Transportation Commission staff is recommending granting VRE $1.48 million

to restart the program -- which was suspended in 2020 -- as part of the commission's fiscal 2024-2025 Commuter Choice grant program, which funds regional transit projects from Interstate 395/95 toll revenues. The funding would allow VRE to bring back the program for the next two years.

“We’re excited about this because it provides a really cost-effective way to increase passenger rail options for our commuters,” NVTC Program Analyst Adam Hager said at a recent Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission meeting.

VRE riders with 10-ride, 7-day or 31-day passes will be able to ride Amtrak trains seven days per week at no additional cost under the program.

Courtesy Stafford County Sheriff's Department