Haymarket Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine June 2024

HAYMARKET/ GAINESVILLE

Meet Battlefield ice-skating star Sarah Everhardt

Local hospitals celebrate anniversaries Explore Conway Robinson Forest Park Music educator publishes new book

Bringing Quality Care to Our Community

Fauquier Health Physician Services has grown the number of primary care and OB/GYN providers in our community to give you access to the care you and your family need. Our practices are all welcoming new patients. With primary and OB/GYN care, close to home, we’ll help you live your healthiest life.

Primary Care

Fauquier Health Primary and Specialty Care at Lake Manassas 7915 Lake Manassas Drive, Ste. 101 Gainesville, VA 20155 703.743.7370

Fauquier Health Family Practice at Bealeton 6200 Station Drive • Bealeton, VA 22712 540.439.8100

Fauquier Health Primary Care at Culpeper 1100 Sunset Lane • Culpeper, VA 22701 540.316.5950

Tony Fiore, DO Family Medicine

Christopher Nagle, MD Internal Medicine

Internal Medicine

and

Lake Manassas

Aliona Bortun, MD Family Medicine

Joseph David, MD Internal Medicine

Barry Aron, MD Obstetrics & Gynecology

Christopher Nagle, MD Internal Medicine

Monica Freidline, CNM Obstetrics & Gynecology, Midwife

Jae Lee, MD Internal Medicine

Gabriela Ammatuna, PhD, CM, IBCLC Obstetrics & Gynecology, Midwife

Candice Davis, FNP Internal Medicine

Kearn Ghuman, DO Family Medicine

Ahmed Fida, MD Family Medicine

Hasina Hamid, MD Internal Medicine

Victoria McDonald, MD Obstetrics & Gynecology

Erica Coleman, FNP Internal Medicine

Lauren Kim, CNM Obstetrics & Gynecology, Midwife

Demetrius Maoury, MD Internal Medicine

Mandy Colegrove, WHNP Gynecology

Jenna Wong, DO Family Medicine

A time of transition

As we head into summer, it’s a time of changes – graduations, weddings and quite a few relocations. So it is here at Haymarket-Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine, part of the InsideNoVa family of publications.

As she told you in this space last month, our prior editor, Susan McCorkindale, has moved on after nearly six years directing the content of the magazine. Susan did an amazing job finding stories that helped to connect you with your community – which is our goal – and we wish her all the best as she gets to enjoy more time with her family, as well as her other pursuits.

We’re delighted to welcome Stacy Shaw as our new contributing editor. If Stacy’s name sounds familiar, that is because she has run the popular local news website Bristow Beat since 2012. If you’re a fan of Bristow Beat, don’t worry – it’s not going anywhere. In fact, as part of Stacy’s role with us, you will see some collaborative efforts among the magazine, InsideNoVa and Bristow Beat. Stacy and her husband, Jason,

HAYMARKET / GAINESVILLE LIFESTYLE

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. ©2024 Rappahannock Media LLC.

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

have lived in western Prince William County since 2006. Before starting Bristow Beat, Stacy worked as a reporter and assistant editor for Patch.com online news sites, and she also has been both a full-time teacher and tutor in Prince William Public Schools. Jason is also a Prince William teacher.

This was our “transition” issue between Susan and Stacy, so Stacy will introduce herself more fully in the July issue and then take over this space monthly. We believe Stacy’s knowledge of the local community will help to make this magazine even more compelling every month – and if you know of people, places or businesses we should write about, please reach out to her at stacy@whglifestyle.com

In the meantime – just as the weather is warming up – our cover story this month is on a

“cool” subject: Battlefield High School’s Sarah Everhardt, who exploded onto the national ice-skating scene this winter and is a contender for a spot on the U.S. Winter Olympic team in 2026. InsideNoVa sports editor Dave Fawcett tracks Everhardt’s rise in a profile that starts on Page 18.

Elsewhere this issue, explore Conway Robinson State Forest with writer Michelle Pais (Page 10), help celebrate two important anniversaries for one of our local hospital systems (Page 14) and learn about some day trips you can take this month to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day (Page 22). Finally, congrats to all of this spring’s graduates, and best wishes for a happy summer!

PUBLISHER

Dennis Brack

dennis@whglifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Stacy Shaw

stacy@whglifestyle.com

ART DIRECTOR

Kara Thorpe kara@whglifestyle.com

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to do list

DISCOVER HISTORY AND TREASURES

TUTANKHAMUN: HIS TOMB AND HIS TREASURES, a collaboration between Exhibition Hub and Semmel Exhibitions and Fever, premiered at THE RHODE ISLAND CENTER in Washington in May and is expected to remain until July 31. The hands-on experience allows guests to follow in the footsteps of Howard Carter, who uncovered King Tut's tomb and treasures in 1922. Visitors can view and touch many of the 1,000 reconstructed artifacts and explore three recreated burial chambers. A scholarly audio tour provides indepth insights into King Tut’s story. Tickets are $25.90-$33.90. Details: tutankhamunexpo.com/washington-dc/

LAUGH-AT-LOUD AT A MYSTERY

SCAN FOR DETAILS AND TICKETS:

The ARTFACTORY’S local theater group, Rooftop Productions, presents Neil Simon’s 1988 play “RUMORS.” The fastpaced comedy revolves around the anniversary dinner at a New York City townhouse. Guests arrive to discover the groom has been shot and his bride is missing. Panic and hilarity ensue as friends dodge accusations. Performances on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays June 14-23.

LOUNGE AND LISTEN

Looking to relax on the lawn and listen to some good music? WOLF TRAP NATIONAL PARK FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS’ FILENE CENTER is an outdoor amphitheater in harmony with its natural surroundings. June features many acts, including Gipsy Kings on June 16; Wilco on June 20, and Trey Anastasio (formerly of Phish) with the National Symphony Orchestra on June 25. Reserve seats under the amphitheater or picnic on the lawn. Details: wolftrap.org/calendar

ESCAPE ON THE LAKE

LAKE BRITTLE is a small freshwater lake on 77 acres in the nearby Vint Hill section of Fauquier County. It offers scenic views of the lake and mountains in the distance and is ideal for fishing or (non-motor) boating or taking a short hike around the water. One-person kayaks and two-person metal-bottom craft are available for rent. The lake is at 4354 Lake Brittle Road, Warrenton. Details: dwr.virginia.gov/waterbody/ lake-brittle/

IT’S LADIES NIGHT!

Ladies, it doesn’t get much hotter than this. The Perfect Girls’ Night Out is bringing “HUNKS THE SHOW” to CRAFTWORX TAPROOM in Gainesville on June 29. These scantily clad hunks wow audiences with their incredible dance moves and jaw-dropping performances. Tickets are $21.95. Must be 21 or over. Details: facebook.com/ CraftWorxTaproom/events

SIP, SWAP & SHOP COMICS

Comic book fans are invited to PINTS & PANELS at TIN CANNON BREWING CO. in Gainesville on June 23 from 1-5 p.m. to sip, swap and shop comics. The event will feature the region’s foremost comic shops and pop-up dealers from around the region. All are welcome to attend this free event. Tin Cannon is at 7679 Limestone Drive, Suite 130, Gainesville. Details: dmvcomiccollectors.com

For an up-to-date list of events around the region, visit InsideNoVa.com/calendar

ONE HOT MESS ON THE FARM

Enjoy sips and sounds on a summer day when THE FARM BREWERY AT BROAD RUN welcomes ONE HOT MESS to the stage, June 15, 6-9 p.m. Whiskey Business opens from 3-6 p.m. One Hot Mess covers classic rock hits with an emphasis on vocal harmony. The venue offers indoor and outdoor seating. Details: thefarmbreweryatbroadrun. com/events

BLACK MAGIC MUSIC

LIVE NATION’S JIFFY LUBE LIVE brings the world’s top musicians to our backyard. June concerts include Santana & Counting Crows on June 20. Details:premium.livenation.com/venue/ jiffy-lube-live

CELEBRATE EMANCIPATION

BULL RUN REGIONAL PARK will hold its third annual JUNETEENTH COMMEMORATION on June 15 from 3 to 4 p.m. The event will reflect upon emancipation with words by Bishop Brett Fuller, inspiring music and stories of freedom. Plus, attendees can enjoy an ice cream social sponsored by Dominion Energy. Details: novaparks.com/parks/bull-runregional-park/events

BY MICHELLE PAIS

health&fitness

Enjoy the Forest for the Trees

Conway Robinson State Forest is a hidden jewel in Prince William County

BY MICHELLE PAIS

If you have driven Interstate 66 or Route 29 in Gainesville, you may recall passing a big sign announcing, “Conway Robinson State Forest.”

Although the state forest sits across from a commuter lot, it offers a treed oasis that can seem miles from the hubbub of daily commuters, weekend shoppers and busy suburban life.

And while the Manassas Battlefield Park to the northeast offers open fields, Conway Robinson is really a forest, a serene and wooded sanctuary with 440 acres of trails, trees and wildlife. It is a nature preserve close to home.

Entering the parking lot, one is immediately greeted by tall trees and the sounds of birds chirping. It feels cool in the shade, and everything is verdant. It looks like summer camp, and you feel like an explorer.

It’s time to select your path. Visitors can choose from five well-marked multiuse trails of varying distances and terrain that traverse several intermittent and perennial streams. Most trails are ideal for easy-to-moderate hikes. Some are also ideal for trail running, mountain biking or horseback riding. The trails overlook each other, so a map or trail guide app is useful.

Along the way, you will encounter an array of greenery, hardwoods and pines, as well as attractive wildflowers. The forest also

Who Was Conway Robinson?

Conway Robinson, who lived from 1805 to 1884, was a Virginia delegate from Richmond, a member of the Democratic party and a prominent lawyer who frequently practiced before the U.S. Supreme Court. He was also a historian, author of histories and founder of the Virginia Historical Society. He was a father and a slaveholder before abolition. Of Robinson’s children, three of his sons fought for the Confederacy – two died in battle and one survived.

His daughter, Agnes Conway Robinson, donated forested property to the Virginia Division of Forestry in her father’s name. The property includes pieces of the unfinished Manassas Gap Railway and was near what would become Manassas National Battlefield Park. It is now Conway Robinson State Forest.

hosts mature oaks dating back to colonial times of early settlements and small farms.

Like the Manassas Battlefield, the property is living history. Little Bull Run bounds the forest to the north. One can also find remnants of the abandoned railroad bed, part of the uncompleted Manassas Gap Railroad, originally planned as a route from Gainesville to Alexandria.

Today, we feel fortunate to have the peaceful parcel existing where so many trees are being cut down to make way for development. Ironically, the Virginia Department of Forestry hesitated to accept the property as a gift in the 1930s when Gainesville was mainly farms.

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“There was considerable reluctance in accepting the property, due to the belief that no one would ever use it,” said Jack Kauffman, northern state forests manager for the department. “At the time of the gift, Lee Highway [Route 29] was a single-track dirt road that was difficult to traverse, particularly in wet weather. Now, the area is one of the highest populated areas in Virginia.”

The property officially became a state forest in 1938, deeded by the Conway Robinson Memorial Park Association in memory of the late Conway Robinson. He was a renowned Virginia lawmaker, attorney and historian in the 19th century.

After acquiring the property from Robinson’s daughter, the forest department planted white pines and loblolly pines to fill land that had been farmed or harvested for its wood.

Conway Robinson is often overshadowed by the battlefield and Prince William Forest Park, but Kauffman said the park is “a very popular recreation area for walkers, runners, bikers and horseback riding.”

That is important because the department aims to meet the recreational needs of

the community and help increase people’s health and wellness, as well as provide fresh air and a place to socialize.

For Gainesville residents, the small forest is ideal for a short getaway. Residents can enjoy a quick hike or bike after work, and often still make it home before dark. They can take the kids, their friends or their dog.

Haymarket resident Lea Pagliuca has frequented the park for about 14 years and recommends it to her neighbors.

“It is close. It’s convenient. It is a nice walk for the dogs; the trail we do is about 3.25 miles,” she said. “We usually try to get there by 9 [a.m.], and it is not too crowded, so it is quiet and sometimes you can see some deer. We have also seen foxes. It is a really nice walk.”

Other local residents visit the park to walk, run or spend time in nature.

“I walk my dog Muffin there several times a week,” said Randy Pitts of Bristow. “We love the trails. It’s nice to have a genuine forest so close to home.”

Conservation groups want to see the park protected from development so it can remain a peaceful oasis for residents.

BY LEA

PAGLIUCA

“Conway Robinson State Forest is truly a hidden gem in Prince William County,” said Karen Sheehan of the Coalition to Protect Prince William County. “It deserves protection because it is a state forest and a state park, because it preserves natural tree canopy, some as old as 250 years, and provides wildlife habitat. The people in our county need all the natural resources we can hold onto.”

dof.virginia.gov/education-and-recreation/ state-forests/virginia-state-forests/conwayrobinson-memorial-state-forest/

Want to go?

Parking is available at the main entrance on the north side of Route 29, slightly more than a mile west of the Manassas National Battlefield Park, and 1,500 feet east of the intersection of Route 29 and Interstate Route 66. There are no restrooms or running water on site, and visitors are reminded to ‘leave no trace.’

Conway Robinson State Park is a popular spot for mountain biking.

Medical Milestones

UVA Health facilities in Manassas, Haymarket celebrating anniversaries

BY BETH LUNA PHOTOS COURTESY OF UVA HEALTH

When Dr. Douglas Markert first came to Prince William Hospital in 1999 the area’s hospital community certainly looked different. Although the Manassas campus included stand-alone medical centers offering basic services, residents had to drive elsewhere to receive specialized and acute care.

Today, as part of UVA Health, Prince William and Haymarket medical centers offer a broad spectrum of patient-centered services across many communities, keeping pace with the robust growth of the area.

This year, the system celebrates two landmark anniversaries: Prince William Medical Center’s 60th anniversary and Haymarket Medical Center’s 10th.

Markert, a practicing interventional radiologist, is also the clinical growth and outreach officer for UVA Community Health and the chief clinical officer for UVA Health at Prince William and Haymarket Medical Centers.

He explained the timeline and expansion of care at the two medical facilities. Prince William Medical Center, which opened in 1964, was an independent hospital until purchased by Novant Health in 2009. Novant opened Haymarket Medical Center in 2014; it was previously a free-standing emergency center.

“After several years as a joint venture between Novant and UVA Health, they joined under the UVA Health umbrella almost three years ago, and we fully became UVA Health,” he added.

While UVA Health is headquartered in Charlottesville, its growth in Manassas, Gainesville, Haymarket and Culpeper warranted continued expansion of specialty services for area patients. To meet the need,

UVA Health invested in doctors, staff and state-of-the-art equipment..

“We are seeing expansion of our surgical subspecialties and also the ability to treat acute disease,” he said. “We can admit sicker patients to our ICU care at both Haymarket and Prince William.”

Prince William has two cardiac cath labs and an integrated radiology suite, along with robotic surgery and more.

“We have hired many new doctors, such as gynecologic oncologists for women’s cancers. It’s the perfect example of overlaying goals – to get patients a high level of care locally, receiving the full scope of cancer treatment here in their own community,” he said. “We can send people to UVA Health Charlottesville for things like transplants, and we have those doctors that have clinics or operate here at our centers, too.”

Markert believes the most significant changes overall were the investments in technology and UVA Health’s commitment to growth in surgical services, including robotics.

Robotic surgeries are now offered for knee replacements and spinal procedures, as well as many general surgeries.

“Robotic care is a lot less invasive. These are new technologies in the last three to

UVA Health Centers surgery specialist nurses, L-R: Brenda Braun, Lead LPN; Diana Vento , CMA; Caitlyn Edwards, CMA; Gabriella Chimenz, MSN, RN and Clinic Administrator; Sarah Wise, RN; and Nonkululeko Khuzwayo-Lawson, CMA, foster a supportive environment for patients and their families while offering sophisticated specialized care.

Prince William Hospital as it was in 1969.

Doctors unload an emergency vehicle at the old Prince William Hospital ER.

Did

you miss this?

The Heart of a Warrior

Inspired by a chance meeting when she was in the fifth grade, Shirley Dominick’s dream was a career in the military. Years later, she did just that. During her 22 years in service, she worked in communications and led critical initiatives at the Pentagon and across Europe, retiring as a major in 2003. Wanting to do more, she then founded the nonprofit Serve Our Willing Warriors

Published in the November 2022 issue of Haymarket Gainesville Lifestyle

five years, and I see surgery generally heading in this direction,” he said.

UVA Health is also committed to providing local cancer care from diagnosis to treatment. The most common forms of cancers are breast, colon, prostate and gynecological. “We can do the complete treatment [for them] right here,” Markert said.

One of the most significant changes in the area has been the increase in 55-and-over communities. UVA Health decided to meet the needs of that community by offering a full menu of world-class patient care options for older individuals.

“It took a while to start, but we are meeting the needs now,” Markert said. “It’s so exciting for many of us to be part of shaping what that is, and be part of UVA Health, the premier health standard in the state.”

While UVA Health has received many awards for its patient care, for the doctor, it is its straight-A rating for patient safety from The Leapfrog Group, that stands out. The group measures objective safety criteria to prevent errors, injuries and infections, and hospitals participate voluntarily.

“We are proud to share that we have earned 10 straight A’s in the last five years,” Markert said.

Bristow resident Hilary Woodier, nursing administrative supervisor at UVA Health Haymarket Medical Center, has been a nurse for 46 years, during which time she has held many leadership positions. Woodier came to Haymarket six weeks before it opened, leaving her director spot at Fairfax Hospital after former coworkers encouraged her to look at the expansion in Haymarket.

Woodier had been involved in the planning and opening of the Inova Heart and Vascular Center in 2004 and the planning for the new Women’s Building at Inova Fairfax Hospital.

“I was aware of the free-standing emergency department [then called Heathcote] and had used that facility for my family,”

(L-R) UVA Health coder Jes’ Aranda and another staff member stand with Dr. Elaine Fan, Dr. Nahil Theodore, nurse Maria Cabrera and nurse Jacqueline Bangor.

COURTESY OF UVA HEALTH

she said. “Former colleagues had joined the Prince William team, and they mentioned a nursing supervisor position that my prior experience – especially in opening new buildings – would be invaluable in.”

Woodier loves being rooted in her community where many friends and neighbors are also her patients.

“We have strived to maintain a culture that prioritizes excellence in patient care while offering our staff a congenial and welcoming work environment,” she said. “Our satisfaction scores validate that our patients are satisfied. I like to say that our hospital is the ‘heart’ in Haymarket!”

While serving as the chair of the shared governance research council some years ago, Woodier introduced a practice called “the pause.” It is time allotted to medical staff to pause and honor patients who have passed, acknowledging the trauma and grief of the experience for both staff and family, whom they invite in.

Woodier said families have been moved by seeing the staff come together to honor their loved ones.

Woodier recalled an elderly woman who was brought to the emergency department after being found unresponsive by her family. Despite the staff’s best efforts, the patient passed away. The patient’s daughter, who was pregnant, shared with Woodier that her mother had been so happy to join her ultrasound appointment and learn that the baby would be a girl.

“When we conducted our ‘pause’ with family and team, I mentioned that we knew our patient had been so happy knowing she would soon have a granddaughter,” Woodier said. “Months later, I was approached in the hospital cafeteria by another family member who told me the family would never forget the way their loved one was honored in that personal way during our ‘pause.’ They shared that the baby girl had just been born and all was well. It was so meaningful to me personally and professionally.” L

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(L-R) Nurse Michele Dominguez, case manager Vicki Davis Case, and doctor Nasir Rasheed are just three faces patients may meet at UVA Health medical centers.

Anonymous No More

Meet Battlefield ice-skating star Sarah Everhardt

BY DAVID FAWCETT

Sarah Everhardt saw no reason to make a fuss about her first day back at Battlefield High School after a week-long absence.

To the 17-year-old junior, Jan. 30 was another day to slip into English class and join 20 peers to work on her essay for the upcoming Standards of Learning test. But Brandie Provenzano had a surprise in store.

Before discussion about that day’s assignment, Provenzano, Everhardt’s English teacher, directed her students’ attention to the Smart Board in front of the classroom. Displayed on the screen were two phrases, “Welcome Back, Sarah!” and “We have a celebrity among us!” around a photo of Everhardt smiling.

The ever-humble Everhardt had politely demurred when Provenzano warned her in the hallway about the presentation. But to no avail. Provenzano forged ahead with her plan. She believed Everhardt deserved recognition for medaling four days earlier in her debut at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in Columbus, Ohio.

Plus, this was breaking news. Like many others in the Haymarket community, Provenzano was just learning about Everhardt’s skating prowess. She had reached out to Everhardt on the first day of competition with a reminder to submit her revised essay. But Provenzano never heard back.

She soon discovered why when Battlefield principal DeLores Lucas sent an email to the whole school that day letting everyone know Everhardt was preparing for the biggest skate of her life. No longer in the dark, Provenzano broke from the schedule to

highlight Everhardt’s fourth-place finish. Everhardt remained humble through it all. She obliged when asked to provide context while her fellow students watched her performance but downplayed her accomplishment.

Everyone else, though, was amazed. The same Sarah Everhardt who minded her own business in class was the same one dazzling the crowd with a seemingly flawless performance that drew rave reviews before a national television audience? One and the same. Goodbye anonymity. Hello centerstage.

“I’ve taught 23 years and I’ve never seen a kid so unassuming and so laid back about something like that,” Provenzano said. “It was a huge deal.”

ALL IN

Everhardt’s journey to this point began when her mother saw an ad for a learn-toskate program at the Haymarket Iceplex.

It was time for a change. After introducing

their only child to dance, gymnastics and swimming without success, Jonathan and Ekaterina Everhardt decided to try something new to keep Sarah busy.

Only 7 at the time, Everhardt loved skating. The opportunity to jump appealed to her. Plus, by her second day, Everhardt proudly exclaimed to her parents she had not fallen on the ice.

Everhardt has athletic genes. Her father grew up in Buffalo, N.Y., playing hockey, and her mother was a gymnast in Belarus. But Everhardt also had determination.

As she became more comfortable with ice skating, Everhardt sought more training. She tried synchronized skating but preferred to skate individually. Looking for somewhere to develop her passion, Everhardt, through word of mouth, ended up at SkateQuest in Reston at age 9.

She remained with her first two coaches until the summer of 2019 when Everhardt, seeking to take her skills to a new level, switched to Tatiana Malinina and Roman Skornyakov. The move provided an opportunity to learn from two excellent teachers who had a standout skater of their own. Malinina and Skornyakoy are the parents of current men’s world champion Ilia Malinin, a Vienna resident.

Everhardt’s work with Malinina and Skornyakoy paid off when she qualified for her first senior nationals after winning the gold medal at the Eastern Sectionals Singles Final in Coral Springs, Fla., in November.

Everhardt entered nationals as a relative unknown. Amber Glenn and defending U.S. champion Isabeau Levito were the bigger names during the two-day event. But Everhardt became a medal contender after placing sixth in the short program Jan. 25.

Sitting in the arena’s upper tier during the next night’s free skate, Jonathan and Ekaterina anxiously followed their daughter by swaying their bodies with every move

Josephine Lee, Amber Glenn, Isabeau Levito and Sarah Everhardt (left to right) at Senior Nationals

Jan. 26. Glenn won gold, Lee silver, Levito bronze and Everhardt pewter.

Everhardt made on the ice. In the best performance of her life, she felt no pressure in totaling 193.37 points. Glenn won the title, while Josephine Lee finished second and Levito third.

After her free skate, Everhardt headed to the stands to meet her parents. They celebrated together, but it didn’t last long when it became apparent that Everhardt needed to return to the ice to receive her medal. Looking to make a splash at nationals, Everhardt had achieved her goal.

“I wanted to build a name so people would know, ‘That’s Sarah,’” she said.

But Everhardt also knows she has to keep pushing herself. As her father said, “The ice is slippery.” Everhardt has experienced setbacks, none bigger than when she missed seven weeks of training after suffering stress fractures in both her feet in fall 2022.

“The challenge for Sarah is to stay at this level and shoot for something better,” Jonathan said. “So it’s not a one-time thing.”

To keep improving, Everhardt spends most of her week at SkateQuest. During this school year, she takes two classes a day at Battlefield before heading to the rink either late morning or early afternoon, depending on when her classes finish. She stays at the rink until 5:30 p.m. and then does yoga or dance once or twice a week at Transform Power Yoga in Haymarket. This semester, Everhardt is also taking a virtual class.

On Saturday or Sunday, depending on available ice time, she’s at the rink all day. She’s off the other day.

Sarah Everhardt qualified for her first Senior Nationals by winning the gold medal at the Eastern Sectionals Singles Final in Coral Springs (Fla.) in November.

By this point, Everhardt is accustomed to the demanding schedule and the tradeoffs. She’s old enough to drive but hasn’t had time to get her license. Her parents take her where she needs to go.

Able to do their jobs virtually at times, Jonathan, a retired Marine Corps gunnery sergeant who is now a talent acquisition specialist for a government contractor, and Ekaterina, an IT program manager, make it all work. Battlefield also has helped accommodate Everhardt’s schedule, for which her parents are grateful.

There’s little down time as Everhardt looks to build on her success at senior nationals and eyes a possible shot at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. To prepare for the upcoming season, Everhardt spent spring break in California working with her choreographer, Nadezhda Kanaeva. By finishing in the top five at senior nationals, Everhardt automatically qualifies for next year’s event.

“We are very happy that Sarah was able to put [together] clean programs at this year’s U.S. Championships,” said Tatiana Malinina. “We are going to continue to work hard on improving all aspects of Sarah’s skating to make her a stronger skater.”

If there’s one person who inspires Everhardt’s commitment, it’s Malinin. On March 23, the 19-year-old broke the world record for the highest free skate score when he won the ISU World Figure Skating Championships in Montreal.

The two are good friends and talk regularly. After Everhardt placed fourth at nationals, Malinin was one of the first people to congratulate her. And the Everhardts stayed

Sarah Everhardt with her mother, Ekaterina, and her father, Jonathan, after the medal ceremony at Senior Nationals.

Sarah Everhardt trains at SkateQuest in Reston. DOUG

an extra day in Columbus to see Malinin win the U.S. senior men’s title.

Dubbed the “Quad God” for his ability to routinely stick jumps with four rotations in the air, Malinin has helped Everhardt expand her routine. He also models the dedication it takes to reach the highest levels, as well as how to handle increased attention from the media.  Everhardt wants to attend college and may consider George Mason University, which Malinin attends, because of the proximity to her training facility and her home.

“He’s a great example,” Everhardt said. “He helps to motivate me and calm me down.”

READY FOR NEXT TIME

At the start of this school year, Provenza-

no asked her students to write something about themselves on a 3-by-5 index card. She does this as a way to let them know how much she cares for them.

Neither she nor Everhardt remembers what Everhardt wrote. But both said she did not mention anything about ice skating. In retrospect, Provenzano joked with Everhardt that she could have included that bit of information on the card.

Provenzano had known Everhardt since the ninth grade when she first taught her. It never dawned on her why Everhardt missed class then. But now it made sense. Everhardt was away training for and competing in skating events. Mystery solved.

When Everhardt is gone again for an extended period of time, Provenzano will understand why and not worry when there’s no immediate reply about the status of a paper.

“I will know next time to not send a reminder,” Provenzano said.

But no in-class celebration after Everhardt turns in another stellar performance on the ice? Provenzano makes no promises. L

Dave Fawcett is sports editor of InsideNoVa. Reach him at dfawcett@insidenova.com.

Left: Sarah Everhardt had the best skate of her career when she finished fourth overall at Senior Nationals. Right: Everhardt with one of her two coaches, Roman Skornyakov.

D-Day at 80

Anniversary events nearby will honor those who survived and died during the epic assault

BY GLENDA C. BOOTH

It was the most ambitious, complex, amphibious landing in history when, on June 6, 1944, 175,000 men and 50,000 vehicles, from motorcycles to armored bulldozers, crossed 60 to 100 miles of the English Channel and landed in Nazi-occupied France. Almost 11,000 airplanes and 5,333 ships and crafts of all types supported the invading troops.

Code-named Operation Overlord, the multi-nation, Allied Expeditionary Forces invasion on Normandy’s beaches was the culmination of meticulous, detailed planning, led by American General Dwight D. Eisenhower, the Supreme Allied Commander. Many historians credit this massive military operation with liberating France and turning the tide against the Nazis.

To defeat the Axis Powers, led by German chancellor Adolph Hitler, the United States had enlarged the U.S. Army from 170,000 men in 1940 to 7.2 million in 1944. American manufacturing had doubled from 1939 to 1944, turning out airplanes, boats, ships, tanks, rifles and other weapons.

World War II officially ended in victory for the Allied forces 11 months after D-Day.

In a 1964 CBS interview with Walter Cronkite on Omaha Beach, General Eisenhower said, “. . . it’s a wonderful thing to remember what those fellows 20 years ago were fighting for and sacrificing for, what they did to preserve our way of life. Not to conquer any territory, not for any ambitions of our own. But to make sure that Hitler could not destroy freedom in the world.

“I think it’s just overwhelming. To think of the lives that were given for that principle, paying a terrible price on this beach alone, on that one day, 2,000 casualties. But they did it so that the world could be free. It just shows what free men will do rather than be slaves.”

June 6, 2024, marks the 80th anniversary of what came to be called “D-Day.” Events and exhibits will honor those who sailed, flew, landed, survived and died during the assault. Here are some within driving distance of our area:

Sergeant Abner Leroy Adams from Delaplane

Delaplane resident Abner Leroy Adams enlisted in the Army on April 13, 1943. After his basic training, the Army assigned him to the 4042nd Quartermaster Truck Company in the 251st Ordnance Battalion. When they arrived in Swansea, Wales, in November 1943, the 4042nd Company and 251st Ordinance became part of the newlydesignated 5th Engineer Special Brigade and trained for amphibious landings. On May 21, 1944, Abner wrote to his mother that he would be in charge of 80 trucks during the D-Day invasion. He wrote, “I am doing my utmost to shorten this war . . . you and father take care of yourselves and don’t worry about me.”

On June 5, 1944, the brigade left England and anchored off Normandy’s coast. Abner was in the first wave of the truck company, scheduled to hit the beach at 07:20 a.m., about 50 minutes after the first assault troops. Of the 35 trucks that were supposed to land, only 13 made it to the beach. Most of the trucks sank. German weaponry disabled most of the rest.

Sergeant Adams was killed by enemy fire as he was leading his men to the beach during offloading. The exhibit will honor him and others killed in the D-Day invasion.

Virginia War Memorial RICHMOND

National Museum of the U.S. Army LORTON

Many Virginians had a role in D-Day. Fauquier County’s Vint Hill Farms Station was a facility in 1942 where codebreakers helped the nation develop new warfare and intelligence tactics, leading up to D-Day. The U.S. Army’s Signal Intelligence Service used a 700acre farm as the country’s first official “listening post,” known as Monitoring Station Number 1. They chose the site for its close proximity to Arlington’s Army Intelligence Headquarters and the station became one of the busiest intelligence gathering sites of the war. Service members there eavesdropped on the enemy and provided General Eisenhower and his officers detailed descriptions of Nazi fortifications along the French Coast, knowledge critical to D-Day’s success.

From June 6 to summer 2025, the War Memorial will share the stories of some Virginians who participated in the invasion, like Sergeant Abner Leroy Adams from Delaplane (see sidebar). Visitors can see interviews and read oral histories collected over two decades ago. The Memorial’s executive director Clay Mountcastle said, “D-Day was one of the most significant dates in our history. With each passing year, fewer and fewer people understand the significance. There’s no better way to understand it than through the veterans that experienced it.”

Exhibits will cover the troops’ training, the landing, paratrooper and glider operations, hedgerow fights, the Battle of Saint-Lo and the Normandy Breakout. The museum will also display 65 World War II artifacts, including uniforms, helmets, photos, letters, and other items from veterans, an M1 Garand Rifle, Thompson submachine gun and a German MP40 submachine gun.

The National Museum of the U.S. Army at Fort Belvoir is hosting a D-Day exhibit and educational programs until mid-November

The D-Day invasion and future battles involved 13,000 paratroopers and 4,000 glider infantry men. At “D-Day: Freedom from Above,” museum-goers can “parachute” behind enemy lines using interactive “HistoPad” technology, virtual simulations, and learn the stories of U.S. Army paratroopers, were loaded with gear, from bazookas to grenades, leaped out of airplanes behind enemy lines on D-Day just after midnight to support the ground forces that would arrive at dawn. Throughout the war, the paratroopers captured roads, created river crossings, blew up bridges, destroyed communications and cut off supplies and reinforcements.

The exhibit also features stories of individual soldiers’ landings and their actions on the ground after landing, including friendly overtures by French villagers who provided food and medical aid.

Visitors can see four medals of honor awarded to soldiers for actions performed on D-Day, medals never before previously displayed together.

In the permanent Global War Gallery are World War II artifacts, including a parachutist’s steel helmet, an M4 Sherman Cobra King tank, a landing craft called a “Higgins Boat,” a soldier’s pocket Bible and a retelling of the atomic bomb’s development.

During the exhibit’s seven months, U.S. Army Aerial Delivery Unit soldiers will demonstrate parachute-packing. There’ll be documentary screenings, author presentations and history talks covering topics like the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs), tactical intelligence for D-Day and the African American Experience in the war.

The Paul & Phyllis Galanti Education Center, one of the named spaced located at the Virginia War Memorial. Photo courtesy of the Virginia War Memorial

Sainte Mere Eglise during Operation Overlord / D-Day as seen through HistoPad. Photo credit: Histovery, courtesy of The National Museum of the United States Army

D-Day Memorial and Bedford Boys Tribute Center

BEDFORD, VIRGINIA

On June 6, the D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Virginia, will host a ceremony recognizing veterans with speakers, music, flyovers, a wreath laying, exhibits, an authentic Higgins boat and book signings.

The memorial, modeled after the shoulder patch of the Supreme Headquarters Allied Expeditionary Force, relates the D-Day story. The

Virginians who lived through D-Day kept found items and mementos from the invasion that will be featured in the exhibition. Pictured here is a French cowbell taken off a cow in hedgerows by a Virginia soldier. Beside it is a German helmet captured by US troops after they came ashore. Photo by Suzanne Feigley, courtesy of the Virginia War Memorial.

Eisenhower Historic Site GETTYSBURG, PENNSYLVANIA

Two hours or 98 miles north, the Eisenhower National Historic Site in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, will host a World War II weekend titled “1944: The September 20 to 22, 2024. The National Park Service’s website explains, “From General Eisenhower’s ‘Great Crusade’ in Western Europe, to the jungles of Saipan, and to the farm fields and factories of the United States, 1944 saw millions of Americans pull together in pursuit of a common goal, alongside their Allies in arms.” Visitors can enjoy three days of programs and living history, including speakers, ranger-guided tours and family activities. L

Virginia War Memorial, vawarmemorial.org

National Museum of the U.S. Army, thenmusa.org

National D-Day Memorial, dday.org

Bedford Boys Tribute Center, bbtcva.org Eisenhower National Historic Site, nps.gov/eise

Making Their Voices Heard

Music educator

Menzie Pittman publishes book for young musicians starting their careers

BY ROBIN EARL

Local musician and music educator

Menzie Pittman tells stories — both informational and aspirational — in his just-published book, “The New Musician: The Art of Entrepreneurship in Today’s Music Business.” Through those stories he imparts some wisdom and a hefty dose of practical advice to musicians struggling to have their voices heard in a business dense with voices struggling to be heard.

The book is well-written, functional, and fun to read. But those who live near Pittman’s music education school The Contemporary Music Center (CMC) in Haymarket, or close to Warrenton, where the author lives, may want to seek out the source. With 35 years of experience in the music business — 25 of those as a performer playing the drums — and in particular, the music education business, Pittman is eager to commune with those who share his love of creating music. His enthusiasm is contagious. Contemporary Music Center

Pittman opened the CMC in 2004. The top floor of the corner location at 4410

Ringo Starr is not the only Ringo in Menzie Pittman’s life. He and his retriever, Ringo, can be seen strolling up and down Main Street in Warrenton whenever Pittman is not at work. “Ringo will beg for biscuits at Red Truck Bakery and Great Harvest, and the chef at Black Bear knows him well.,” he said.

Costello Way features a retail space and rehearsal rooms where 20 to 25 music teachers offer lessons in keyboard, horns, strings, percussion and voice to children 8 and older. “No one ever ages out,” Pittman said.

The bottom floor features a spacious performance room — @4410 — where students are able to showcase what they’ve learned. It is a carefully designed space that celebrates all genres of music and boasts professional acoustics.

Alive with music during CMC’s year-round Rock Camps, @4410 is truly the students’ stage. Teens from Patriot and Battlefield high schools designed and painted the walls. An Abbey Road street sign has been hanging on the small stage since a former student brought it back for her mentor from the original Abbey Road in north west London.

Pittman said, “This place has an energy. The kids love playing in here.”

Preparing music students for careers

Pittman thrives on teaching music, but when he brought his daughter to college and checked out the music programs that were being offered, he realized that his students needed more than just knowing how to play an instrument if they were seeking a career in the increasingly competitive music industry. They needed some business knowledge, they needed to know how to perform, and they needed to know how to market themselves. Not everyone can afford to go to college, and students studying at most music shops were not learning these things.

With his experience as a performer and as a music educator combined with the extensive world-class industry contacts he’d made over the years, Pittman realized he had a lot to offer to help students complete the package of skills they would need. So he wrote it all down and published The New Musician: The Art of Entrepreneurship in Today’s Music Business.

“The New Musician”

Pittman’s book is a smooth mix of interviews with music industry stars interwoven with advice for those who want to make a living in music. Chapter 2, titled, “Sound Check, The Opening” starts: “This book is designed to be a playground of thoughts and ideas that stimulate and encourage the creative aspects of all developing artists while, at the same time, providing a window into understanding the art of business.”

In the “How to Read This Book” chapter, Pittman encourages the reader to take an active approach to the lessons. He suggests that readers take time to research every name and reference. “Every person in this book has made important historical contributions to the music business. And if a style

of music is mentioned, you need to know what it is,” Pittman writes.

“If you read about an equipment brand, look it up… If it’s an idea or an opinion, consider it deeply; then if you can relate, embrace it….

“Let the interviews in this book take you backstage, where you’ll get to know how successful musicians think as they share their personal feelings, insights, joys and ponderings.”

Pitman sought out and secured some impressive interview subjects. He reached out to longtime musicians, talented newcomers and industry veterans. No one turned him down, he was surprised to find.

Pittman and legendary music producer

Dave Cobb, for instance, bonded over an appreciation of Joe Walsh and Ringo Starr. Cobb said in “The New Musician,” “He [Ringo] is literally my favorite drummer because he is one of the few drummers in the world who’s a lyrical drummer…. Most drummers just play drum parts. They don’t play to the vocalist the way Ringo does. You know, he is always interacting with the lyrics.”

Pittman agreed, “Ringo’s got an amazing feel, and he is absolutely the reason I play drums.”

In Chapter 17, Pittman asked music educator Dom Famularo – nicknamed Mr. Motivational – for a list of essential traits for those who want to succeed in the music business: “Passion is a strong desire to do

Pittman began his music career as a drummer. His life’s work is introducing his students to the joy of creating music.

anything, so you have to understand passion and you have to keep on refueling it because you will be tested.

“I would probably say the second trait is perseverance… With every obstacle I have ever encountered, perseverance has made the difference … you will always hit resistance – always! When you hit a wall, you need to break through it. Or you go around it or jump over it or dig under it.”

In a chapter titled, “Welcome to the Jungle,” Pittman offers his own advice, comparing navigating a career to driving on an interstate. “There are multiple lanes, exits, destinations, good and bad drivers, and people driving at varying speeds with different agendas. Some people let you in their lane, and some cut you off… If you love the ride, put the top down, and enjoy every second of it. But if by chance there’s an accident ahead and a long backup, make sure you know the side roads. Understand that you can always change lanes.”

Summing up his motivation for writing the book, Pittman writes: “Creativity is the lead vocal, business is the harmony, and there is an art to understanding both.” L

Pittman shows off a wall in his performing space at Contemporary Music Center that recognizes music greats from the recent past.

Dr. Julia Krulla | Dr. Elizabeth Bauer | Dr. Edward Michel | Brittani Vickers

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TOP 10

The five highest-priced homes that sold in each of the two Zip codes between mid-April and mid-May. Photos and

20155 Gainesville

14947 ALPINE BAY LOOP

$1,251,000

Sold: April 15

5 bedrooms

4½ bathrooms

4,001 square feet

13657 HOLLY RIDGE LANE

$1,199,900

Sold: May 6

5 bedrooms

5½ bathrooms

6,349 square feet

5431 LICK RIVER LANE

$1,046,000

Sold: April 26

5 bedrooms

4½ bathrooms

4,625 square feet

13499 BRIGHTVIEW WAY

$950,000

Sold: April 26

3 bedrooms

3½ bathrooms

4,465 square feet

13737 LONG RIDGE DRIVE

$942,795

Sold: May 8

3 bedrooms

3 bathrooms

3,000 square feet

The Big Picture:

Home sales were up in the Haymarket Zip code in April, compared with April 2023, but down in the Gainesville Zip code. Median sales prices continued to rise, however. Still a tight market… New listings in April were up 15.6% in Gainesville, but down 25.4% in Haymarket, according to the latest data from the Prince William Association of Realtors.

The April Details:

Closed sales:

• Down 18.2% in Gainesville to 45 units

• Up 31.4% in Haymarket to 46 units

• Combined sales totaled 91, up from 90 a year earlier

Pending sales:

• Down 14.3% in Gainesville

• Up 20.3% in Haymarket

Median sales price:

• Up 14.2% to $725,000 in Gainesville

• Up 7.8% to $733,140 in Haymarket

Average days on market (homes sold in April):

• 11 in Gainesville • 10 in Haymarket

20169 Haymarket

12981 TORY GATE DRIVE

$1,410,000

Sold: May 1

5 bedrooms

4½ bathrooms

6,481 square feet

15350 OCTOBER WAY

$1,360,000

Sold: April 30

5 bedrooms

3½+ bathrooms

6,306 square feet

5786 COACHVIEW COURT

$1,220,000

Sold: April 15

6 bedrooms

5½ bathrooms

5,219 square feet

16409 JACKSON HOLLOW ROAD

$1,200,000

Sold: April 29

4 bedrooms

3½ bathrooms

3,500 square feet

13004 HYLAMORE COURT

$1,200,000

Sold: April 22

4 bedrooms

4½ bathrooms

5,816 square feet

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Nice Rice and Damage Control

BY KARLA JONES SEIDITA, HOME ECONOMIST

Rice is nice but blah. How can I give plain rice oomph? Rice is the world’s most popular grain. White rice. Brown rice. Arborio, Basmati and Jasmine. Long grain. Short grain. Instant or parboiled. There’s a rice for every taste that will complement every recipe. Try these recipes for an interesting twist on an old favorite.

Apple, Cinnamon and White Wine Rice

A sophisticated blend of flavors that cooks into the rice. Pairs nicely with roast pork, ham, turkey or any grilled white fish.

SERVES 4 TO 6

INGREDIENTS

4 Tablespoons butter

1 medium onion (chopped – about ¾ cup)

2 medium apples (any type – peeled, cored and chopped – about 2 cups)

1/2 cup pecan pieces

1/8 teaspoon pepper

2 cups apple cider

2 cups medium sweet white wine (like Reisling)

1 cup jasmine or parboiled rice (like Ben’s)

2 bouillon cubes (chicken or vegetable)

1/4 cup raisins

2 (2” long) cinnamon sticks

2 Tablespoons dried parsley

DIRECTIONS

1. Melt butter in a medium pot.

2. Add onion, apples, pecans and pepper.

3. Cook on medium (uncovered) till soft –about 5 minutes.

4. Stir in remaining ingredients.

5. Cover pot. Simmer until rice is cooked –about 30 minutes.

6. Serve any remaining liquid over the rice.

Oven Baked Mushroom and French Onion Risotto

Hosting a dinner party? Can’t beat this easy, guaranteed-to-impress side dish. Slow baking develops its rich taste and leaves you lots of time to fuss with other things. Pairs well with roast chicken, roast beef, chops, and sausage.

SERVES 6 TO 8

INGREDIENTS

1 (12.5 oz.) can cream of mushroom soup

2 cups broth (any type)

1 cup long grain, parboiled rice (like Ben’s)

2 onions (chopped – about 1 ½ cups)

8 oz. fresh mushrooms (sliced – about 3 cups)

6 stalks celery (chopped – about 1 ½ cups)

1/3 cup dried onion pieces

2 teaspoons onion powder

1/4 teaspoon coarse grind pepper (no salt)

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Grease a 9” x 13” pan or mist with cooking spray.

3. In a large bowl, whisk soup and broth. Stir in remaining ingredients.

4. Pour into the prepared pan, spreading evenly.

5. Cover with foil. Bake till rice is done – about 2 hours.

But There’s Still Something Missing…

Fixing Kitchen Disasters

DISASTERS Fixing Kitchen

I’m a disaster in the kitchen. How can I fix my failures? Food is too expensive to throw away! We’ve all had recipes that didn’t turn out. Try to salvage what you can before you toss them. Here’s some damage control ideas.

Recipe Disaster: Leftover bread, biscuits, or rolls

Remedy: Crumble and freeze till you have enough to make a breakfast casserole, meatloaf, meat balls, stuffing or bread pudding. Or pulse dry crumbles in the food processor to make bread crumbs.

Recipe Disaster: Leftover Cake (with or without frosting or filling)

Remedy: Cut cake into cubes and layer with pudding and/or pie filling. Refrigerate overnight to moisten the cake. Serve cold or heat portions in the microwave. Top with whipped cream.

Recipe Disaster: Leftover Fruit Pies

Remedy: Crumble crust and filling into individual serving bowls. Microwave to heat. Top with ice cream.

Recipe Disaster: Overbaked Casseroles

Remedy: Generously top with cheese. Return to oven until cheese melts. Garnish with chopped, fresh parsley if you happen to have some. Parsley. It makes everything look good.

Recipe Disaster: Salty Soups or Stews

Remedy: Add a little sugar – not much – just enough to take the salty edge off. Or add a potato which has been cut in half and cook about 20 minutes to soak up the salt. Remove the potato before serving.

Recipe Disaster: Liquid-y Soups or Stews

Remedy: Boil (uncovered) to evaporate excess liquid. Or mix some corn starch into a little cold water, stir in and boil to thicken. Or stir in a little dry, instant mashed potato flakes till you like the thickness.

Recipe Disaster: Gravy, Stew or Soup tastes blah

Remedy: Add a dollop of ketchup. Or a dash of hot sauce. Or stir in a little soy sauce. Or add more salt and pepper. Or all three (one at a time), tasting as you go.

Recipe Disaster: Lumpy Gravy or Sauces

Remedy: Strain and discard lumps. Or whirl in the blender till smooth.

Recipe Disaster: Greasy Soups, Stews and Gravies

Remedy: Refrigerate. The fat will float to the top and form easy-to-remove solids.

(Cook’s Tip – To discard removed fat, store it in a disposable container in the freezer until trash day then toss it (frozen) into the trash bag. Pouring fat down the drain causes clogs.)

Recipe Disaster: Noodles or Pasta that stick together

Remedy: After cooking (and rinsing if you rinse) return to the pot and drizzle with a little vegetable oil. Toss to coat.

Recipe Disaster: Too Spicy

Remedy: Stir in a little dark or semi-sweet chocolate till it melts. Or stir in some plain yogurt, sour cream, or coconut milk.

Recipe Disaster: Runny Mashed Potatoes

Remedy: Stir in some dry, instant mashed potato flakes.

.”

Add-In Rice

The quickest and easiest way to make plain rice fancy. Pick one of the add-ins and stir it into two cups of cooked rice.

Pesto Rice

stir in 3

Tablespoons pesto.

Sichuan Rice

stir in 1 Tablespoon Chinese chili garlic sauce.

Orange Rice

stir in 1/3 cup sweet orange marmalade (not regular, English or Seville marmalades which are bitter).

Parm and Parsley Rice

stir in ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese and ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley.

Thai Peanut Rice

stir in ½ cup peanuts, 2 teaspoons soy sauce, and ½ teaspoon sesame oil.

Sausage Rice

stir in ½ cup cooked, crumbled sausage and 2 Tablespoons pan drippings.

About the Home Economist

Karla Jones Seidita has cooked up a very tasty life. She has been a restaurant and bakery owner, award-winning food writer, lifestyle radio host, cookbook author, country inn proprietor, and farm-to-table teacher. Currently she spends her days at her laptop and in her garden in Sumerduck. Find her at cheesecakefarms.com

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Nanofabrication facility comes to George Mason's Manassas campus

Local and state leaders, alongside George Mason University faculty and partners, cut the ribbon in early May at the new 1,946-square-foot Nanofabrication Facility on its Manassas SciTech Campus.

The $3.75 million specialized research environment is Northern Virginia's sole nanofabrication hub, offering hands-on workforce training for research applications to propel the growth of high-tech industries.

Nanofabrication is the production of nano-sized structures to create products such as sensors, chips and satellites. Nanofabrication also enables the creation of tools for medical diagnosis, monitoring and treatment. The practice is indispensable across various fields of nanotechnology, from biomedicine to semiconductors, officials said.

New ramen bar headed for West Falls Church

TRobotic arm lends a hand at Gainesville paving company

Superior Paving Corp. and EZ Street Asphalt recently hosted an open house at its Bealeton facility to unveil new robotic technology.

The event featured the introduction of a state-of-the-art robotic arm that packages 50-pound bags of EZ Street. The robotic mechanism is part of Superior’s strategy to adopt Ambient Asphalt Technology by the Miami-based EZ Street, which ensures durability and sustainability in road maintenance, according to company officials.

“This technology allows us to enhance our operations while ensuring job security and efficiency for our employees,” David Hemlick, the executive vice president of operations at Superior Paving, said in a news release.

Google announces data center expansion

Google recently announced a $1 billion investment to expand its Virginia data centers, including two Loudoun County sites and a new Prince William County campus.

Ruth Porat, Google president and chief investment officer, was joined by Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin at the company’s Reston office in late April to announce the initiative, which brings Google’s total investment in the state to more than $4.2 billion.

The company also announced two new AI workforce development initiatives – a $75 million AI opportunity fund and a Google AI essentials Coursera course – to help workers learn about the new technology.

Free clinic receives big donation

UVA Health recently announced a $10,000 donation to the Mother of Mercy Free Medical Clinic in Manassas and Woodbridge.

The donation in late April was given to recognize the exceptional service of physicians to the community, according to a news release.

The Catholic Charities Mother of Mercy Free Medical Clinic serves the uninsured and underinsured with health care. The clinic offers annual physicals, disease management, sick visits, prenatal care, health and wellness classes, eye exams and more. All the doctors and nurses working in the clinic donate their time.

hree new businesses, including a full-service ramen bar, have been announced for the West Falls development in Falls Church.

Honoo Ramen and Bar, Perspire Sauna Studios and Casabella Salon will join the nearly 1.2-million-square-foot development in Falls Church, according to a news release.

Previously announced retailers coming to West Falls include Ice Cream Jubilee, Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls, BurgerFi, SEOULSPICE and early education and preschool program Tierra Encantada.

The centerpiece of the West Falls development will be “The Commons,” 18,000 square feet of outdoor space with greenery, seating, movable furniture, fire pits, a fountain and more. PROVIDED

State and local leaders join George Mason University officials in cutting the ribbon for the school's new nanofabrication facility at the Manassas campus. Evan Cantwell/George Mason University

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