Haymarket Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine October 2024 by Warrenton Lifestyle Magazine

MASTERS IN MARTIAL ARTS

KWON’S CHAMPION SCHOOL

INSPIRES GENERATIONS

Battlefield class mixes graphicsbusinessand Meet local novelist behind ‘Highway to Hell’

Discover Cold War secrets at Vint Hill museum

Bringing Quality Care to

Surgical Care in Our Community

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Happy October!

Ilove autumn in Northern Virginia. The air is crisp, the leaves are vibrant autumn colors and activities are abundant. While days grow shorter, there is plenty to look forward to, such as Haymarket Day on Oct. 19. You can find more fun and frightening fall events on our To-Do list.

This issue is different from the past few I’ve worked on in that the articles are more male-centric. While this was not planned, I think that is important. The men featured in this issue are heroes, teachers and warriors. They are role models who are proudly leading the next generation.

In this issue, a MMA master proves the ethos behind martial arts is more than a myth. Our “Kidstorian” interviews Cold War veterans to uncover the covert history of Vint Hill Farm. A Prince William underwriter discusses the inspiration for book series. Finally, a Battlefield teacher finds real-world applications for class projects.

Hope you enjoy it!

– Stacy Shaw

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

STACY@WHGLIFESTYLE.COM

Stacy Shaw is the publisher of BristowBeat.com. The former language arts educator lives in Bristow with her husband, 9-year-old daughter and 15-year-old Westie.

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. ©2024 Rappahannock Media LLC.

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

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The To-Do List

Fall events: festive, fun and frightening 10

creative arts

Highway to Hell

Local author publishes nightmarish series BY KATHERINE GOTTHARDT

local history

The Secret History of Vint Hill

Student writer visits The Cold War Museum BY DHRUV AMITABH

cover story

A Masters in Martial Arts

Kwon’s Champion School instructor inspires generations BY HEATHER STIETZEL

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Getting Graphic

Battlefield teacher runs class like a business BY STACY SHAW

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Top home sales in Haymarket and Gainesville

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The Solheim Cup in Gainesville, ATCC expansion and more

ON THE COVER "Master" Eric Kwon, lead instructor at Kwon's Champion School of Gainesville, holds a seventh-degree Black Belt in Mixed Martial Arts. Photo by Luke Christopher

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to do list

FESTIVE, FUN & FRIGHTENING

October seems to be everyone’s favorite month. The weather is perfect for fall festivals, Virginia foliage is stunning and pumpkins decorate the doorway. And there’s no denying Halloween-core is frightening and fabulous! Halloween is not just for kids anymore, so get into the spirit. Attend a masquerade or visit a haunted house. Here are some October events you are sure to fall for!

FESTIVALS

Looking for daytime family friendly fun this fall? Visit COX FARM FALL FESTIVAL throughout October. It’s open Thursdays through Mondays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. With slides, rope swings, animals and hayrides, you can spend hours there and not do everything. Plus, food and music on the weekends, and pumpkins. Cox Farm, 15621 Braddock Road, Centreville

Mark your calendars, HAYMARKET DAY returns, Oct. 19. It’s the town’s biggest annual event, attended by over 15,000 spectators and 200 vendors. Enjoy a hometown street festival including a parade featuring local schools, performers and law enforcement, plus local food, craft vendors, live music and more. Washington Street, Haymarket.

OUTDOORS

SCAN FOR DETAILS AND TICKETS:

Experience the thrill of international-level cross-county competition up close at Morven Park’s INTERNATIONAL AND FALL HORSE TRIALS, Oct. 11-13. Reserve your tailgate spot by Oct. 7, arrange for a Saturday brunch and cheer for your favorite competitors. Morven Park International Equestrian Center, 41580 Sunday Morning Lane, Leesburg

Bring a flashlight and walking shoes and join BULL RUN MOUNTAIN CONSERVANCY’S 25TH ANNUAL HALLOWEEN SAFARI, Oct. 25, 6-8 p.m. Take a non-scary guided night hike and meet “wildlife” characters, performing natural history skits. The theatrical adventure includes live music by a bonfire. $10. Leopold’s Preserve, 16290 Thoroughfare Road, Broad Run.

THEATER

Pied Piper Theatre presents Stephen Sondheim’s “INTO THE WOODS” Oct. 1113 and 18-20. The whimsical musical combines the timeless fairy tales of Cinderella, Jack and the Beanstalk and Little Red Riding Hood when their paths cross in the woods. Fun for all ages. $17-25.

SCAN FOR

SPOOKS & SCARES

Ready to be spooked? Bring family and friends to the FACTORY OF FEAR haunted house event inside the historic ARTfactory building, Oct. 25 & 26 from 6-11 p.m. Food vendors will be in the parking lot next to the ARTfactory. Purchase tickets online for $25. ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas.

SCAN FOR DETAILS AND TICKETS:

HALLOWEEN PARTIES

ARTfactory, 9419 Battle St., Manassas. The classic vampire tale, “DRACULA” comes alive in a sensual production by the Manassas Ballet Theatre, Oct. 1820. Be transported to Transylvania with Dracula’s quest for eternal life and love. Score by Kim Reynolds performed by The Kim Reynolds Band. From $35. Hylton Performing Arts Center, 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas

Ladies, enjoy drinks, dancing, prizes, shopping, food trucks and a live DJ. It’s HALLOWEEN LADIES’ NIGHT at The Winery at Sunshine Ridge Farm, Oct. 24, 5-9 p.m. Dress in costumes. Tickets get you entry into the raffle and your first drink or flight. The Winery At Sunshine Ridge Farm, 15850 Sunshine Ridge Lane, Gainesville.

Take the ultimate Halloween party cruise, Saturday, Oct. 26, 9 p.m. to midnight, aboard Pier Pressure’s DC TITANIC MASQUERADE HALLOWEEN & COSTUME PARTY. The double-decker “Spirit of DC” will be transformed into a haunting Titanic. Two DJs will spin the hottest club mixes. From $39, 21+. Pier 4: 580 Water Street SW, Washington.

DETAILS AND TICKETS:

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Global Citizenship

World language study as a pathway to broad horizons

BY TUTT STAPP-MCKIERNAN

Many were shocked last year when some universities began to announce the slashing or even the elimination of their world languages departments–but the trend is broader than just those headlines. The State of Virginia no longer requires that a student take a world language to graduate, for example, and many elementary schools where enrichment language study had been offered are cutting those programs, either to meet budget constraints or to focus on different priorities.

There are, however, excellent reasons to study a second language, and to start that learning as early as possible. Aside from the fact that most selective colleges and universities still either encourage or require two to four years of the same world language, there are 21st-century learning objectives that are beautifully fulfilled by the study of another culture and its language.

At Wakefield School, a mission-based commitment to the cultivation of global citizens drives a robust and vibrant World Languages (WL) Department that begins at the beginning: JK students enjoy twice-weekly world languages experience in both Spanish and French, continuing through Grade 7. In Grade 8, students choose either Spanish, French, or Latin for their required Upper School studies–two years of the same lan-

guage required, four years recommended.

Despite the necessary focus in the Upper School on the grammar, vocabulary, and verb conjugation that all language study requires, all of Wakefield’s WL teachers are in agreement that it is the sparking of curiosity, cultural awareness, and confident communication in the world community–in other words, the cultivation of global citizenship–that is the actual payoff for such systematic exposure.

Here’s what they have to say:

Ana Lizarraga, WL Department Chair and Spanish teacher for Grades JK-7: “In JK, we will tell them, ‘OK, we are going on a pretend trip! We are going to fly!’ and we show them the map and where we’re going to go…or we will show them objects from the country we’re studying and ask them to choose one they like and describe it. This expands their curiosity [about a different country]. We emphasize conversation, and curiosity.

Connie Lalonde, French teacher for Grades JK-7: “We’ve always been clear that in the Lower School the goal is not to develop any level of proficiency. It’s more than just language–we talk about France, Canada, countries in Africa–there are more French-speaking people in Africa than in all the rest of the world combined! In Middle School, we have intentionally taken an approach that is cultural more than [strictly] language. It really is the key to global citizenship…especially now when students have the whole world at their

“The most important thing that we do is offer two languages, starting at age four! The earlier you start, the easier it is to learn a language–and not just learn, but develop a love and connection to language and to what it opens up for them.”

—Connie Lalonde

fingertips, it is important to make connections in a positive way, to establish [understanding and] a rapport with someone.”

Makaila Daeschel, Latin teacher: “One thing I think of with Latin especially is, because I teach ancient languages and they’re dead, how can I approach that global identity?..I think the reason that a lot of kids take Latin is that it’s such an exciting culture–they are so interested in what the day to day life was like. And especially living in this area, where we have so much of it mirrored in the founding of the United States, that makes a connection [for the older kids].”

Casey Eriksen, upper level Spanish teacher: “Developing global citizens gives relevance to the study of language, connecting students to the world beyond Wakefield. The idea of being able to communicate with others piques student interest. We emphasize nuances that are specific to effective communication...even framing some work around how to write a friendly email and what tone to use in that application gives language study a practical aspect that students enjoy.”

Jeannine McKee, upper level French teacher: “We are living in a world where students in the future will travel and live in [other] countries. Learning a language will help them in their careers. We want to broaden their horizons, to broaden their vision of the world.”

From awakening curiosity about the world in the youngest students, to expanding Wakefield’s emphasis on articulate communication to the broader world, the study of other cultures and languages serves the school’s mission well. As Dr. Eriksen puts it, “The idea of becoming a global citizen makes language study fun and meaningful.”

SPONSORED CONTENT

Highway to Hell

Local author publishes third book in nightmarish series

BY KATHERINE MERCURIO GOTTHARDT

When it comes to the place of eternal suffering, John Toepfer isn’t afraid to call it by name: Route 666.

Originally from Long Island, the 58-yearold insurance underwriter has lived in western Prince William County since 1994.

Under the name J.D. Toepfer, for the past five years, Toepfer has been writing his popular “Highway to Hell” series, which he called apocalyptic and dystopian.

Despite the traffic nightmares on I-66, the horror novels aren’t about that interstate. Rather, Toepfer is giving a nod to the real Route 666, just outside Culpeper.

In the series, Route 666 is closed by the state due to an abnormal number of accidents, deaths and tragedies.

“The main character wants to use this as the basis of a fictional novel, which suggests that the cause is supernatural,” Toepfer said. “Any relationship with I-66 is unintentional and coincidental."

But Toepfer’s Route 666 is still a hellscape. Page Turners Podcast described Toepfer’s first book,“Route 666,” as “Stephen King meets ‘The Exorcist.’”

Toepfer doesn’t shy away from archetypal themes presented through the supernatural.

“A friend of mine is a former nun,” Toepfer said. “She told me she found the themes of good and evil in the first book an interesting interpretation of what she had been exposed to. She admitted that she could only read the book during the day and never at night. Something about it spooked her. I took it as a real compliment.”

The Third Release

Toepfer just released the third book, “The Gathering Storm,” which advances the nightmare of the first two, “Route 666” and “Sins of the Fathers.”

The series follows Jack Aitken, a family man whose personal dreams and ambitions have been altered, postponed or abandoned through a series of random twists of fate. He

used to play it safe, but Aitken decides to throw himself into researching Route 666.

In “The Gathering Storm,” Aitken ignores the warning signs and the pleas of his wife and uses an ancient map provided by a mysterious museum curator to search for an unknown Native American burial mound.

The protagonist winds up interrupting a satanic ritual, which ignites a chain of events that place him in a life-and-death struggle with a malevolent being whose power rivals

the devil himself.

It's a “breathless, wild ride,” said Toepfer’s editor, Emily Marquart. And it won’t be the last in the series.

Creativity and roadblocks

Toepfer’s writing drive runs deep, but his creative writing had ironic roots.

In 2013, he started writing gardening articles for Blooming Secrets, a personalized gardening service he and his sister started.

But Toepfer’s theme took a sharp turn with the “Highway to Hell” series, sending him from the garden to the underworld. He said the first novel was written as a personal challenge.

In the story, the main character decides to write a book to change the trajectory of his life, which circumstances beyond his control have significantly altered.

“Much of what happened to that character happened to me, so there are some autobiographical parallels,” Toepfer said.

Writing the book was cathartic, he added, and helped him put a lot of disappointment behind him. And although he did not plan to write a series, he said he is “delighted” it turned out that way.

This real road outside of Culpeper was the inspiration for Book 1 and the series.

John “J.D.” Toepfer was born and raised on Long Island, N.Y. He graduated from the State University of New York at Stony Brook, with degrees in history and political science. Toepfer has lived in Prince William County for the past 30 years, and currently lives in Bristow. Toepfer works as a risk management specialist, helping clients avoid potentially devastating risks, but at night, he writes paranormal thrillers, placing his characters in unspeakable danger.

Spending time in his garden, pictured here, helps Toepfer come up with ideas.

Toepfer tries to have fun with his series, not just by playing off Route 666, but incorporating familiar settings in Prince William, Culpeper, Warrenton, Fairfax and Chantilly.

He also considers the historic significance of his settings. “History is something I am very interested in, and I try to weave it into my stories,” said Toepfer.

Most of the third book takes place in western Prince William and includes a healthy dose of local color. The novel references Manassas National Battlefield Park, Manassas Airport, the Manassas police station and Quantico National Cemetery. It also includes references to the Museum of Culpeper

5 TIPS for Aspiring Writers from John Toepfer

READ EVERYDAY. Set reading goals or join a book club.

WRITE WHAT YOU KNOW. Real settings make stories more believable.

History and Frost Café, which are actually on Route 666. Other mentions include the Warrenton Hobby Shoppe and Deja Brew Café.

But the main character is ultimately chased from his Virginia home and flees to Lake Ronkonkoma, N.Y., another area Toepfer knows well. “I often use places I have lived or visited heavily in my life as settings for stories,” Toepfer said.

Toepfer says he always keeps a pen and paper near him to write down thoughts. “Spending time in my garden or going for a drive often helps me come up with ideas.”

Toepfer’s high school sweetheart and wife, Christina, and his twin brother,

TAKE RISKS.

To keep the audience on edge, characters should never truly be safe.

PLOT. Organize ideas on index cards and manipulate the pieces. MAKE A PUBLISHING PLAN.

Work with an editor, a publisher and marketer.

George, assist in his writing process.

“They remind me of how far I have come and that succeeding is believing in yourself,” he added. L

Readers can follow Toepfer’s progress on social media and Amazon or can learn more about his work at jdtoepfer.com.

Katherine Mercurio Gotthardt is a freelance writer, an award-winning author and a poet with a 21-year history in western Prince William County. Learn about her at KatherineGotthardt.com.

local history

The Secret History of Vint Hill

Student writer visits

The Cold War Museum

We asked “Kidstorian” Dhruv Amitabh to visit The Cold War Museum at Vint Hill and share his perspective as a young person one generation removed from the conflict. Dhruv is a ninth-grader at Wakefield School who lives in Haymarket. He is a published author and has participated in numerous writing events, winning a featured spot in the iWrite anthology called “I Write Short Stories by Kids for Kids,” three times. He is a contributing journalist for BristowBeat.com, specializing in local history.

BY DHRUV AMITABH

One of the most hidden wars ever fought on this planet occurred not long ago. The Cold War was not exactly a war but a conflict between capitalism and communism that played out globally. It began after World War II and continued until 1991, ending with the fall of the Berlin Wall that separated East and West Germany. The two main players were the U.S. and the Soviet Union (USSR), which was what Russia called itself when it incorporated

other areas, such as Ukraine. It set into motion many events that are still prevalent in this modern age.

The U.S. wanted to spread democracy and prevent dictatorships, thus conflicts arose in places such as Korea, Vietnam, the Middle East, China and South America.

The younger generations did not live through the Cold War so it can be fruitful to look back and make connections to present day situations. What better way to do that than to visit a museum dedicated to the war of shadows?

Don’t let the small size of the Cold War Museum at Vint Hill Station fool you. There is an abundance of physical and informational content within its walls that has been curated by individuals passionate about preserving Cold War history.

It boasts an impressive board of directors, and its co-founder is Francis Gary Powers Jr., son of one of a dozen casualties of the Cuban Missile Crisis. Plus, the museum is a nonprofit completely staffed by volunteers. Donations fund preservation and display of artifacts and educational programs.

Top: The Cold War Museum’s Berlin Wall artifacts

Middle: Crew of Army personnel work at Vint Hill Farm Station, 1943. Bottom: Position finder conducts radio surveillance at VHFS, 1943.

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At the museum you can learn about top-secret reconnaissance missions conducted by U-2 spy planes and more. From the bricks of the Berlin Wall to Russian missile boosters, visitors will enjoy exploring military and CIA artifacts.

Mike Washville is one of the volunteers at the museum. While serving in the U.S. Army, Washville was stationed at Vint Hill in 1983-84. He also served in West Germany along the border of Czechoslovakia and East Germany from 1981 to 1983.

When explaining the significance of the Cold War, Washville emphasized the amount of espionage that occurred.

“The intelligence battle – in the skies, space, on the ground, in the dark alleyways – goes on 24 hours a day and seven days a week, mostly unknown to the public. That, for me, is the most fascinating part of the Cold War,” he said.

That is why the museum is perfectly situated. Vint Hill Farm Station hosted a military facility, known as Monitoring Station No. 1, that conducted espionage and radio surveillance throughout the 20th century.

Signal intelligence works by blasting radio signals on a certain frequency into the ionosphere, and having the magnetic wavelengths carry that frequency to its desired location.

“The decision to build this facility was both strategic and geographical,” Washville said.

Vint Hill began providing secret communications in World War II. It was in the optimal position to send and intercept signals from Western Europe, including Nazi Germany.

Vint Hill gave people a perspective as to how powerful and beneficial signal intelligence can be.

“It was the birthplace of modern Army signal intelligence, fostering the first-ever school of signal intelligence at the time,” Washville said.

Over time, signal intelligence grew from a crew of less than 300 to thousands across the country.

After the war, Vint Hill Farm Station became the first field station of the Army Security Agency and conducted significant signal intelligence operations during the Cold War. It also became a training center for radio-intercept operators.

Vint Hill Farm Station served various espionage purposes throughout decades, remaining an active military base and signal intelligence school for 52 years, eventually closing in 1997.

But The Cold War Museum includes histo -

Vint Hill farm served as U.S. Monitor Station No. 1 in 1951.

Operators transcribe reconnaissance at VHFS, 1944.

It was the birthplace of modern Army signal intelligence, fostering the first-ever school of signal intelligence at the time.

Visiting the Cold War Museum?

Here is what you need to know

LOCATION:

7172 Lineweaver Road in Vint Hill.

HOURS: Saturdays 11-4 p.m. and Sundays 1-4 p.m.

COST: Free on weekends

PRIVATE TOURS: By appointment only, weekdays, $15-20 per person

MEMBERSHIPS:

Begin at $25 annually and include VIP benefits

SPECIAL EVENTS:

Old Bust Head Brewery hosts a speaker series

MORE INFO: coldwar.org

ry that extends beyond signal transmission. It also includes many Cold War-era artifacts.

For instance, the museum holds a one-of-akind relic that was originally locked up in the CIA headquarters. During the rise of communism in China, the CIA used advanced photo analysis to create a foolproof mold and copy of Chairman Mao Zedong’s left ear.

“This was a way to identify Chairman Mao Zedong even if a doppelganger is used and will thus be able to keep an eye on his movements,” Washville said.

John Bergioni, the prime photo interpreter of the United States at the time, received the ear copy as a retirement gift. After he died, his son donated it to the museum.

For me, the museum not only provided a peek back in time, but a telescope into the future. The museum taught me that world affairs often occur behind the scenes. That begs the question: Is the Cold War really over, or is there a new and much deadlier Cold War being fought today?

We are fortunate to live so close to The Cold War Museum at Vint Hill, where one can interact with primary sources to gain knowledge of a significant time in history with effects that are still felt today. L

courtesy of The Cold War Museum



 Joining you for dining out or a special

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local business

MASTERS IN MARTIAL ARTS

BY HEATHER STIETZEL

PHOTOS BY LUKE CHRISTOPHER

KWON’S CHAMPION SCHOOL OF GAINESVILLE INSPIRES GENERATIONS

Kwon, a seventh-degree Black Belt in Mixed Martial Arts, is not only leading that program but also a second school in Fairfax.

He is also carrying on a proud family tradition.

Eric Kwon’s career took a different path from what he intended. In 2001 he graduated from the University of Virginia with a degree in chemistry. After completing one of the university’s most rigorous programs, he was planning to enroll in medical school.

But around that time, he received a different calling. The new Kwon’s School of Gainesville lost its head instructor. Kwon agreed to step into the role temporarily until his father, who owned Kwon’s Championship Schools, could find a replacement.

When it came time for Kwon to start medical school, he opted instead to remain in his role at Kwon’s.

“I chose to teach martial arts over pursuing medical school because I found a deeper sense of fulfillment in seeing my students grow,” Kwon said. “It was unlike anything I had ever experienced.”

Now, Kwon’s Champion School of Gainesville is celebrating 25 years in business.

Kwon’s father, H.Y. Kwon, is a grandmaster and 10th-degree Black Belt in Mixed Martial Arts, which combines styles from Tae Kwon Do, Karate, Kung Fu, HapKiDo, Jiu Jitsu, Weapons and Kickboxing.

Eric Kwon drew upon the lessons he learned from his father. They weren’t only martial arts lessons, but also lessons about life. While his father could be strict, he retained a positive mindset and encouraged his students.

Even after rubbing elbows with celebrities in the field of martial arts, he maintains, “my father is still my favorite hero.”

His father is equally as proud of him.

“When my son told me he wanted to become a master instead of a doctor, I was incredibly proud. Doctors save lives, but I know the profound positive impact a martial arts master can have on their students,” the elder Kwon said.

H.Y. Kwon opened his first martial arts school in South Korea in 1968. He immigrated to the United States in 1985 and opened a Kwon’s Champion School in Front Royal, which he runs to this day.

“I’ve always loved teaching martial arts, not just for the physical training and self-defense, but for the mindset it cultivates,” H.Y. Kwon said. “That's why I started my school back in 1968 – to share my love and knowledge of martial arts with others and teach them the skills that have meant so much to me.”

H.Y. Kwon has created an enduring legacy for his sons, Eric and Tiger. Eric was in fourth grade in 1988 when he joined his father in Virginia. The elder Kwon knew English would be the key to the family’s success and with diligent study, both boys became proficient speakers within two years.

Eric witnessed his father displaying his talents at local charity events, modeling the importance of giving back.

Today, Eric Kwon agrees with his father that martial arts teaches more than self-defense. He considers his biggest accomplishments to be the times he has helped a shy child gain confidence or helped children overcome their personal challenges.

He remembers a student who had balance issues and a tendency to fall. After working with her, she could not only stand, but also progress through belt after belt. Another student suffered from a tic disorder, and Kwon used martial arts to help him successfully curb them.

And martial arts creates camaraderie and community, said Kwon, who has taken bitter enemies and turned them into friends.

One of Kwon’s instructors, Courtney Jones, is a fourth-degree Black Belt and former student. Jones said she struggled with self-esteem as a child, but knew Kwon believed in her. “I feel like Master Kwon was more real, more connected and more kind [than other instructors]. I was a different kind of kid.”

Jones worked hard and saw her skills improve. “[Martial arts] is not about being perfect but doing your best to be better than the day before.”

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: “Master” Eric Kwon demonstrates swords stance; Instructors Eric Kwon, H.Y. Kwon and Jordan Hodge preside over a belt progression; teachers Courtney Jones and Alecsander Davis practice with Eric Kwon; Eric Kwon assumes fighting position.

GRANDMASTER:

In Korean Martial Arts, a true Grandmaster is a person who starts the arts at a very young age and continues it until their body will no longer allow it. Then they still contribute mentally to the art.

MASTER:

Instructors or students who hold a Fourth-degree Black Belt or higher.

Now she said the best thing about teaching students martial arts is “the ability to inspire them and overcome some of the same obstacles that you had to deal with when you were younger.”

Her greatest achievement has been working with a shy girl like herself. One day, she heard her own words coming out of the girl’s mouth and realized her student was now mentoring her peers.

Kwon’s Champion Schools, which has eight U.S. schools and one in South Korea, has been recognized as one of the top 10 programs in the world by the Grandmaster Federation.

Fourth-degree Black Belt instructor Alecsander Davis also credits Eric Kwon with making him the man he is today.

“[Martial arts] is about building character for what you are as a person,” Davis said. “Growing up with Master Kwon I’ve been

able to change for the better and generally make a difference in the world.” L

Heather Stietzel of Bristow, has a B.A. in journalism and has written for publications in Indiana and Virginia. Prior to her role with the Prince William Chamber, she worked for the National Association of Manufacturers and the US Chamber of Commerce.

ABOUT KWON’S CHAMPION SCHOOL OF GAINESVILLE

LOCATION: 7605 Linton Hall Road, Gainesville

WEBSITE: kwonschampionschool.com

PROGRAMS: Mixed martial arts classes for various ages, including children and adults, afterschool programs, summer camps and birthday parties.

MMA STYLE: incorporates Tae Kwon Do, Karate, Kung Fu, HapKiDo, Jiu Jitsu, Weapons and Kickboxing

FROM LEFT: Eric Kwon enters his Gainesville dojo; Kwon graduates to seventh-degree Black Belt with his father, H.Y. Kwon, beside him; Eric Kwon’s son, Lucas, excels at Kwon’s.

COURTESY PHOTO

education

Getting Graphic

Battlefield teacher runs class like a business

STORY AND PHOTOS

BY STACY SHAW

Even though they are returning after a long weekend, students in Michael Spudic’s graphics classes at Battlefield High School are energized, excited by the prospect of making custom t-shirts, tumblers and decals. For many of the students, being able to design, produce and sell merchandise is the reason they are taking the class.

Spudic divides the class into groups of threes or four, and each group is assigned to a different machine. In the shop room, he dons safety goggles and demonstrates how to engrave a logo onto a tumbler with a large laser printer.

In the corner of the main room, a few students use the vinyl cutter to make decals. Later, on the other side of the room, Spudic teaches another group how to operate the state-of-the-art direct-to-film printer.

Within minutes, logoed t-shirts and tumblers arrive hot off the presses.

Students marvel at their creations. One student asks if he can give the Battlefield-themed tumbler to one of his teachers. They want people to see their work.

“They are going to see people walking around with [their custom shirts], which is pretty neat,” Spudic said. “Their art can be on the back of 100 high school students.”

Spudic is not only a graphics teacher – he also teaches physics and engineering. While those sound like weighty subjects, Spudic is passionate about graphics, believing it can prepare students for a variety of professions. He said it blends technical and soft skills.

“The official name of my class is Graphic Communications Systems. I joke that a cooler name would be ‘Mr. Spudic's Merch Class,’” said Spudic.

The class has a creative design component. Students create designs using Adobe Illustrator or Cloudscape They then apply the images to apparel using the vinyl heat press or directly to the fabric. Engraving is done through a large laser printer.

A cutter is used for vinyl decals and stickers. “Besides door signs, we do a lot of the window stickers, including school teams,” Spudic said.

Students can create their own designs or take orders from clubs, individuals and even local businesses. In doing so, they learn to communicate with clients, coaches, activity advisers and businesspeople.

The graphics class especially works closely with Battlefield’s Leadership class, providing them t-shirts for their various events.

“Working with Mr. Spudic’s graphics

class has been an incredible journey,” said leadership teacher Kris White. “His passion for the subject and dedication to teaching is top notch.”

Senior graphics student Bodey Erb believes graphic communications can help advance his career.

“I want to start my own brand of t-shirts and clothing. I thought this would give me a head start and learn how to do it better,” he said. “It’s really fun. I’ve learned a lot, and I like Mr. Spudic as a teacher.”

Spudic’s interest in graphics evolved organically. When coaching wrestling at Osbourn Park High School, he designed shirts for his team. He took his drawing to the graphics art department to recreate it on Adobe.

TOP: Students hold custom t-shirts made by graphic students.

LEFT: Michael Spudic stands near t-shirts display.

RIGHT: Student creates custom window decals for teachers.

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“I would never consider myself an artist, but I knew what I wanted my shirts to look like,” he said. “I am proud of what I’ve created over the years. I find that some students are already tremendously talented, but I also have many students who – maybe like me –realize that they have more talent than they think.”

The coach continued designing shirts for his team, learning in the process. Then he volunteered to become the school’s graphic design teacher.

When he transferred to Battlefield eight years ago, he accepted a position teaching physics and engineering, but asked then-principal Ryan Ferrera if he could also teach graphic communications.

Ferrera approved, and Spudic started applying for grants to establish the program.

Prince William County Public Schools’ education foundation SPARK (Supporting Partnerships and Resources for Kids) provided most of the funding to buy cutting-edge equipment for his classroom.

SPARK first provided $5,000 for a vinyl cutter and heat press. Another $2,500 went for a dye-sublimation printer. The most recent grant was $4,000 toward the purchase of the $10,000 direct-to-film machine. Additional funds came from sales of the merchandise produced by the classes.

Customers can bring their own designs, choose from standard designs or work with students to realize a concept. Spudic buys apparel from Atlantic Coast Cotton in Gainesville to support the local economy.

Spudic likes that his graphics class attracts both students who are college-bound as well as those looking to enter the workforce after graduation.

Rev. Sean K. Rousseau

TOP: Michael Spudic operates the laser printer. BOTTOM: Students show off newly created Bobcats tumbler.

“We have a wide range,” he said, plus “some who just want an extra elective for some fun.”

One year two of Spudic’s physics students decided to take his class as something “fun for senior year,” but it left an impact on them.

“They both told me that graphics was their favorite class. Both have graduated from college and are commissioned officers in the military,” Spudic said.

Senior Averie Cage learned about graphics when the class printed her lacrosse shirts. “It made me want to take the

Class device prints images direct from the computer.

BOTTOM RIGHT: Graphic students customized shirts for Battlefield’s leadership course and SRO cadet program.

We focus on comprehensive care for every stage of your pet’s life , from routine exams & vaccinations to dental care & surgery.

class. I think that things like this [designing shirts] is really fun.”

Others say the class aligns with their future plans.

Senior Kelsie Erdahl plans to major in visual marketing, “so I thought this class would be really interesting to take.”

Taking the class can be life-changing as well.

“I once had a student that been signed up for my class by his guidance counselor purely by chance. He was a good student, but very quiet. I wasn’t even sure how much he enjoyed the class.” Spudic said. “A year after he graduated, his mother stopped by parent-teacher conferences to tell me he is now studying graphic design in college.” l

To order shirts, cups or other items from Spudic’s graphics class, email him at SPUDICMX@pwcs.edu.

Stacy Shaw is the contributing editor of Haymarket-Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine and publisher of BristowBeat.com. The former language arts educator lives in Bristow with her husband of 15 years, 9-year-old daughter and 15-year-old Westie. TOP: In September, the class designed t-shirts for the school’s field hockey team showcasing the Morgan’s Message

We focus on comprehensive care for every stage of your pet’s life , from routine exams & vaccinations to dental care & surgery.

We focus on comprehensive care for every stage of your pet’s life , from routine exams vaccinations to dental care & surgery.

We focus on comprehensive care for every stage of your pet’s life , from routine exams & vaccinations to dental care & surgery.

We focus comprehensive care every stage of your from routine vaccinations to dental care & surgery.

We focus on comprehensive care for every stage of your pet’s life , from routine exams & vaccinations to dental care & surgery.

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butterfly in support of mental health. (Photo submitted by Michael Spudic) BOTTOM LEFT:

Prince William County Government

H&G’s

TOP 10

The five highest-priced homes that sold in each of the two ZIP codes between mid-August and mid-September.

20155 Gainesville

5716 YEWING WAY

$1,300,000

Sold: Aug. 19

5 bedrooms

5½ bathrooms

7,716 square feet

14183 SNICKERSVILLE DRIVE

$910,000

Sold: Sept. 12

5 bedrooms

4½ bathrooms

5,096 square feet

13678 RITA WAY

$880,000

Sold: Aug. 30 4 bedrooms 2½ bathrooms 3,840 square feet

15573 ALLAIRE DRIVE

$865,000

Sold: Sept. 13 5 bedrooms

3½ bathrooms

4,374 square feet

13672 HERITAGE VALLEY WAY

$862,500

Sold: Aug. 26 4 bedrooms 4 bathrooms

4,138 square feet

The Big Picture:

Home sales rose for the second straight month in both the Haymarket and Gainesville ZIP codes in August, compared with August 2023. Median sales prices remained strong, and homes continued to sell quickly.

But…New listings in August were down 32.7% in Haymarket and up 10.5% in Gainesville, and pending sales were down in both ZIP codes, indicating the market may be softening heading into fall, according to the latest data from the Prince William Association of Realtors.

The August Details:

Closed sales:

• Up 20% in Gainesville to 48 units

• Up 6.8% in Haymarket to 47 units

• Combined sales totaled 95, up from 84 a year earlier

New Pending sales:

• Down 18.8% in Gainesville

• Down 7.9% in Haymarket

Median sales price:

• Up 1.5% to $700,000 in Gainesville

• Up 19.5% to $819,900 in Haymarket

Average days on market (homes sold in August):

• 12 in Gainesville

• 15 in Haymarket

20169 Haymarket

15214 GOLF VIEW DRIVE

$1,665,000

Sold: Aug. 30

5 bedrooms

6½ bathrooms

8,930 square feet

5560 SHAWBROOK COURT

$1,449,500

Sold: Aug. 16

6 bedrooms

6½ bathrooms

7,568 square feet

16009 QUARTERS LANE

$1,250,000

Sold: Sept. 5 5 bedrooms

3½ bathrooms 4,772 square feet

14998 GAINES MILL CIRCLE

$1,190,000

Sold: Sept. 16

5 bedrooms

4½ bathrooms 4,458 square feet

5810 WATERLOO BRIDGE CIRCLE

$1,185,000

Sold: Sept. 4

4 bedrooms

4½ bathrooms

5,528 square feet

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Bioresource campus expanding in Manassas

Team USA wins the Solheim Cup at Robert Trent Jones

Tens of thousands of spectators descended on Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Gainesville earlier this month to watch the United States reclaim the Solheim Cup for the first time since 2017.

The global event, which features the top professional female golfers from the United States and Europe, typically occurs every two years – alternating with the Ryder Cup, the men’s version of the match-play competition. The U.S. team won by a score of 15½-12½.

The first day of competition was marred by shuttle bus delays, causing many spectators to wait an hour or more in line at the parking area, at Jiffy Lube Live. The LPGA, which organized the event, apologized for the delays, and the situation improved the final two days.

Robert Trent Jones previously hosted four Presidents Cups, as well as the PGA Tour’s 2015 Quicken Loans National.

American Type Culture Collection will invest $54.7 million to expand its bioresource center campus in Prince William County with a new biomanufacturing facility focused on global health.

The private, nonprofit global biological resource center and standards organization provides scientists with the biomaterials and resources to conduct critical life science research, according to a news release from Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s office.

Virginia successfully competed with Maryland for the project, which will create 75 jobs.

Founded in 1925, American Type Culture Collection, or ATCC, supports the scientific community with the world’s largest and most diverse collection of human and animal cell products, as well as molecular genomic tools, microbe products and biological materials, according to company officials.

Cold case arrest

Timothy Sean Hickerson has been charged with murder in the disappearance of Shane Donahue in Nokesville more than 14 years ago. Hickerson, now 43, was arrested earlier this month in Palm Coast, Fla., Prince William County police Lt. Jonathon Perok said in a release.

The former Nokesville resident has been a person of interest in the case since Donahue, 23, disappeared after leaving his parents’ home in the 12000 block of Aden Road on March 22, 2010. His cell phone was turned off that day and never used again.

Donahue’s body was never found, but police say he is presumed dead.

Historic African American trail found on land rezoned for data center

The Prince William Board of County Supervisors recently approved a data center rezoning in the Brentsville District that will feature an African American historical trail on its premises.

Two separate sections of the proposal were discussed at the board meeting – the rezoning request, which involves 3.28 acres and three properties on the south side of Wellington Road, nearly 500 feet south of its intersection with Freedom Center Boulevard, and a proffer amendment to extend the land use application to 37.4 acres at the southeast corner of the same intersection. The proposal contains specific instructions for the preservation of historical African American cultural sites on the location, notably the Manassas Colored Horse Show – which was established in 1903 when Jim Crow laws prohibited African American participation in white horse shows.

Team USA's Lilia Vu, raising her hands in victory, holed the Solheim Cup winning putt on the 18th hole on Sept. 15. By Bill Kamenjar/For InsideNoVa

Gov. Glenn Youngkin with state and local officials celebrating a ceremonial groundbreaking at the site of the ATCC expansion at Innovation Park near Manassas.

Photo by Cameron Delean/InsideNoVa

Shane Donohue

Timothy Sean Hickerson

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