Prince William Living February 2020 by Prince William Living

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MOVIES AND MORE

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WRITE BY THE RAILS

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HAUTE DOGS

prince william living February 2020

The premier lifestyle magazine of Prince William and Greater Manassas

INTERIOR DESIGN: 2020 TRENDS AND TIPS PAGE 4

A Touch of Romance PAGE 10

Appliance Connection

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table of contents February 2020 | Vol. 10 | No. 2

FEATURE STORY Interior Design: 2020 Trends and Tips

DEPARTMENTS FROM THE PUBLISHER Lots to Love About February

ON A HIGH NOTE A Touch of Romance in Every Novel With Author Natalina Reis 10

DESTINATIONS Movies and More in Prince William

GIVING BACK First United Presbyterian Church of Dale City: Helping at Home and Abroad

LIFELONG LEARNING Write by the Rails: Supporting Local Writers

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS Appliance Connection: A Family Business Spanning Generations

FAMILY FUN Sharing Love All Month Long

LOCAL FLAVOR Haute Dogs (and More) in Haymarket CALENDAR

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COLUMNS CHANGE MAKERS HEALTH & WELLNESS HOME & HEARTH

12 20 28

Cover photo courtesy Taylor King.

prince william living February 2020

prince william living Rebecca Barnes

PRINCE WILLIAM LIVING PUBLISHER rbarnes@princewilliamliving.com DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Amanda Causey Baity ONLINE SUBMISSION MANAGER Carole Keily

Katherine Gotthardt EDITOR IN CHIEF kgotthardt@princewilliamliving.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Amy Falkofske, Jennifer Halter, Olivia Overman, Erin Pittman, Amy Taylor, Marianne Weaver, Bennett Whitlock

GIVE BACK PRINCE WILLIAM INITIATIVE Melissa Payne, melissa@givebackpw.org Johnnie Barnes, johnnie@givebackpw.org CLIENT CARE SPECIALIST Diane Puigdomenech, dpuigdomenech@princewilliamliving.com VISIBILITY PACKAGES sales@princewilliamliving.com SUBSCRIPTIONS info@princewilliamliving.com

COPY EDITOR Erin Pittman PHOTO EDITOR Amanda Causey Baity GRAPHIC DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Alison Dixon/Image Prep Studio PHOTOGRAPHERS Amanda Baity and Dawn Gardner

Prince William Living, the premier lifestyle magazine of Prince William and Greater Manassas, is published monthly by Prince William Living, Inc. The opinions expressed in the magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Prince William Living. ÂŠ Copyright 2020 by Prince William Living, Inc. All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced or translated without written permission. Visit the Prince William Living website at www.princewilliamliving.com for reprint permission.

Aerial shots of Prince William County trails in the January issue were provided by Roger W. Snyder

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February 2020 prince william living

from the Publisher

Lots to Love About February

ebruary: It’s all about love, isn’t it? We at Prince William Living don’t think of it just as romantic love, though. Take this month’s feature article. It’s about interior design. Want to show your home a little love? Learn about the trends. Hear what our experts have to say, and then try sprucing up a room or two. Love the movies? You’re in the right place. The Prince William area has plenty of theaters with a variety of offerings. We bring you the ins and outs of cinemas in Destinations, so you can decide where to spend your next date night or where to take the whole family for a Sunday matinee. If you’re a foodie, you’ll enjoy reading about Eugene’s Sausage and Fries in Haymarket. It’s a great little restaurant full of unique recipes and flavors. We bring you some of their most popular dishes in this month’s Local Flavor. In Taking Care of Business, meet the owners of Appliance Connection. Read how three generations are involved in this true family business and how they’ve grown over the years.

Then, it’s all about spreading love in the community. First United Presbyterian Church is doing wonders through so many programs, we had a hard time deciding which ones to cover first. That’s in our Giving Back section. If you’re a literature lover, you’ll enjoy On a High Note. We interview award-winning romance writer Natalina Reis, a Prince William area resident. In Lifelong Learning, we’ve got more for the lexophiles among us. Write by the Rails is supporting writers through educational programs that extend from within the group out into the community. Find out what they offer and learn how to get involved. Keep exploring — this month’s Changemaker is Rabbi Lizz Goldstein of Congregation Ner Shalom. Plus, we have Home and Hearth, Finance, Family Fun and more, all in this month’s issue. We encourage all of you who love to read about local treasures to spread the word about Prince William Living and, if you have not already done so, subscribe. Discover new things to appreciate about our area every month in our award-winning magazine, delivered to your door for only $20.

Rebecca Barnes Publisher

prince william living February 2020

INTERIOR DESIGN:

2020 Trends and Tips By Amy Falkofske

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February 2020 prince william living

oes your home need a fresh look? Have the kids outgrown their bedroom décor? If so, then it’s time to think about redecorating. There is so much to consider when taking on a redecorating project in your home, but we’ve got advice and tips to help you get started.

Where to Start The experts all seem to agree that the first thing to take into consideration is budget. “Budget, budget, budget. This is what most people tend to overlook when starting a design project. How much do you want to spend?” asks Diego El-Amin, loyalty manager with IKEA. Rita Miller and Philip J. Rowe, both interior designers at Green Front Furniture, agree that budget is a top consideration when taking on an interior design project. The next thing you need to do is decide what you want the finished product to look like. Sean Porter, owner of Loveless Porter Architects, LLC says, “Just go online and search images of a style you like to get inspiration for your own interior. Begin to create a scrapbook of ideas.” Rowe and Miller agree, saying that you should look in magazines to see what you like as far as style. “I actually would love it if someone would tear stuff out of magazines and bring it to me and show me,” says Rowe.

“If you pick up a magazine and you like what’s on the cover, you’ll like what’s on the inside, and chances are, that’s the style you’re going to go with,” says Miller. Porter and El-Amin both suggest meeting with an interior designer, as well. “If you’re looking for a large remodel, I would say enlist an interior designer. They’re more in the know of common trends, common palates, colors of the year and would be a good starting point at least to get some ideas,” Porter says. “Don’t underestimate getting professional assistance with your redesign project. A professional can help you navigate through many challenges you might face in redesigning your space, like understanding the relationship between space and its occupants, health, safety and welfare issues associated with creating a space that will contribute to your sense of well-being,” says El-Amin. Dave Funk of David Funk Painting gives guidance on whether you should tackle a project alone or hire a professional. If painting is part of your redecorating plan, your choice really depends on time and money. “I think that if somebody has the time and the energy and the desire, there’s nothing wrong with trying it for yourself, and certainly a little bit of research on YouTube or elsewhere on the internet will go a long way and it will pay off. I think where it pays off to hire somebody is when someone has more expendable money than they have time,” Funk says. If you do decide to undertake the painting yourself, it’s important (continues on page 6) Photos courtesy Taylor King

Start your interior design journey by collecting ideas and creating a scrapbook of appealing looks.

prince william living February 2020

(continued from page 5) to prepare. “The very first thing is to make sure that you get the proper tools and to slow down and take your time for all the preparation that goes into painting a room and just to make sure that you allow enough time,” he says. “If somebody thought to themselves, hey, this is going to take me one day, I would plan for two.” Another big consideration, according to El-Amin, is the depth of your project. “Give some serious thought to whether your project is a major remodel. For example, if you have plumbing or electrical involved, then it may be a major remodel,” he says. He also says to consider those resources you may need such as a contractor, a plumber or an electrician if you plan to do something such as open up a wall. El-Amin believes interior design is really about “functional, safe and beautiful spaces that consider lifestyle and style preferences. For example, if you are a young family, you’ll want to take into consideration things like sharp edges and having protected corners on your furniture, having durable flooring and sofa finishes, and having enough storage.” He points out that two adults without children who entertain often will have different needs, and a young single adult will want to live in a space that is multifunctional for both comfortable living and entertaining.

Current Trends If you haven’t redecorated in a while, you might be wondering what styles, colors, etc. are popular right now. Like Porter says, looking online is a good start, or like Miller and Rowe suggest, current interior design magazines will give you lots of design styles to choose from. But they also offer some specific things that are popular right now. “The trends that we are seeing in design are more Earth tones and

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more rustic design as far as applications and details,” says Porter. Rowe echoes Porter. He says that gray, cool tones are popular right now, and colors like warm red are only used if a person’s interior art dictates it. “People who are starting fresh tend to be leaning toward gray, cool tones and blue tones and things like that,” he says. “In terms of color, grays are incredibly popular if you’re trying to sell your home, or if you’re trying to buy a home, people are picking a lot of grays,” says Funk. As far as furniture goes, Miller and Rowe say the traditional look and matching furniture has fallen by the wayside. “We see less and less traditional, rolled-arm sofa people. There are definitely clean lines. I attribute that to people having busy lifestyles and wanting simpler, cleaner interiors,” says Rowe. “We still see some reclaimed shabby chic, type of slip cover look, so you’ve got a little bit of a farmhouse look still going on,” says Miller. Rowe says that customers are picking more statement or iconic pieces these days, meaning impressive pieces with a “wow” factor that you can build a room around. “I think everyone is trying to gain a collection at home, meaning they’re not picking suited (matching) pieces any longer; they’re picking more pieces that they might want to carry with them regardless of the current home,” he says. El-Amin has a different take on trends entirely. “Personally, I tend to shy away from design trends when it comes to redesigning or redecorating my home, as they tend to change from year to year. What I recommend is updating things like textiles such as rugs, curtains, cushion covers and throws. That will give you an updated look and the selection of these items can be based on trends, because it’s going to be less expensive to make a fresh new look.”

Future Trends

n Do make sure whatever you do works for your lifestyle.

If redecorating is not on the immediate horizon, but you want to know what to be on the lookout for, our experts shared where they think the design trends are headed from here.

n Do be realistic about your budget and your time. He uses the example of wanting to redecorate his own bedroom in one day and making it a surprise for his wife. He wanted to change all of the furniture in the room and that couldn’t be done in one day. In the end he decided to forgo the surprise and give himself time to do the project the way he wanted to.

Porter says he thinks people are still going to want a lot of clean lines and contemporary designs in the future, but according to Funk, there could be a change in what people are looking for in terms of color. “I would say that we’re going to see the grays and the whites stick around for quite a while before they fizzle out. I think that people who buy homes a few years down the road, the bolder colors are going to come back,” says Funk. “Wallpaper seems to be making a comeback, too. That’s been a little bit more popular in recent years,” he said. “And I’m willing to bet, that maybe 10 years out, I bet decorative (or faux) finishing makes a comeback too.” Miller and Rowe say they expect to continue to see customers buying iconic pieces. El-Amin’s thoughts on future design trends are not so much about colors and furniture, but how the spaces in our homes will be used. “In the near future, I see rooms not being used in the way they traditionally have been used in the past. People are starting to consider sustainability and healthy living a lot more than they used to,” he said. “Consumers are now making more conscious decisions and asking questions such as, ‘How was the product madew?’, ‘Is it recyclable?’ and ‘Does it contribute to a negative carbon footprint?’” He also thinks the internet and the emergence of smart homes will influence home design in the future.

Tips for Redecorating According to El-Amin, there are some dos and don’ts of redecorating your home.

n Do write down some of the challenges you face in your current space and how you hope redesigning the room will address those issues (i.e., the need for more storage). n Do write a list of activities you want to do in each of the rooms you plan to redesign. n Do consider maintenance issues when selecting fabric, wall and floor finishes, especially depending on whether or not you have children. n Don’t forget about storage. “One of the biggest needs in our market is storage. Most people do not have enough space for the number of things that they own,” said El-Amin. The key to taking on a redecoration project in your home is, ultimately, preparation. Prepare your budget, decide what look you are going for and acquire examples of what you want online or in magazines, then make a plan. Give yourself enough time to complete your project, and make sure you have all the tools you need before you get started. And remember, there are a wealth of professionals in our area just waiting to help if you need it.

Amy Falkfoske (afalkfoske@princewilliamliving.com) is a freelance writer and photographer. She has a Master’s degree in Film-TV with a concentration in screenwriting. She lives in Bristow with her husband, two boys and two Beagle dogs. prince william living February 2020

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February 2020 prince william living

EXPLORE P your local Prince William Public Library

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Find us on Social Media Facebook: PrinceWilliamPublicLibraries Twitter: @PrinceWMlibrary Pinterest: pinterest.com/pwpls Instagram: instagram.com/pwpls

prince william living February 2020

on a high note

A Touch of Romance in Every Novel With Author Natalina Reis By Amy Taylor

Photos provided by Natalina Reis

f a crackling fire, a mug of cocoa and a romance novel sounds like your idea of a great night in, we’re with you. Now that Valentine’s Day is on everyone’s minds, you might be looking for a dose of romance. We caught up with local romance author Natalina Reis to learn more about the craft of creating romance novels.

A Lifetime of Writing Her journey into writing romance novels began as a teenager. “I always liked a good romance even as a kid. When I started writing in my teens, I always seemed to add a heavy romance element to everything I wrote, so I guess it was not surprising that I would end up writing romance. Romances have a sort of magic to them; they are full of hope and optimism and make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside,” Reis said. She hit a few bumps along the road to publication, but she didn’t let those discourage her for long. After a rough patch of many rejections, she got back up and found a way to publish her work. “I started writing romances about the time I had my first son and kept it up for a few years. Then I got disillusioned with all the rejections (back then self-publishing was not an option and most publishers were not taking unsolicited manuscripts) and I stopped for a long time. Then about five years ago, I joined a

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February 2020 prince william living

local writing group, learned about NaNoWriMo, wrote a novel that I pitched during a Twitter's Pitch Madness and was lucky enough to be picked by a small publisher. Even though I didn't stay with that publisher after my first book, it gave me the boost I needed to continue publishing. I am now a hybrid author. Most of my books are traditionally published by a small press, and I have a couple of self-pubs,” she said.

A Touch of Romance Her novels don’t fall squarely into the romance genre as you

Author Nataline Reis writes romantic novels, often with a twist of fantasy and the supernatural.

The universal notion of love and positivity of romance drew Natalina Reis to add romance to all her novels.

might expect. You can find a variety of genre elements in each of her novels.

and all of a sudden something just pops up in my head and the story takes a whole different route. And that's the one thing I love the most about writing,” she said.

“I am one of those people who absolutely hate to place books in these little genre boxes. My books have a very strong romance element to them — some more than others — but they are also so much more than that. I was a devout mystery reader for many years, so most of my books, from romantic comedies to paranormal, have some elements of mystery. In my portfolio you will find a fantasy series, romantic comedies with a twist, a dystopian/sci-fi and paranormal romances. I have even written some short horror and suspense pieces (not published), but even in those I tend to insert some romance,” Reis said. The universal notion of love and positivity of romance drew her to add elements of romance to all her novels. “… the optimism, the idea that love can change the world, that love can sustain you. The idea that there is someone who completes you, who feels like home no matter where you are is a very attractive concept. Also, the fact that love is something that unites us all no matter what nationality, what ethnicity, what sexual orientation ... everyone deep down inside has a need for love,” Reis said.

Writing Process — From “Pantsing” to Publication Every writer has their own process when crafting their work. Reis calls herself a “pantser” — a writer who flies by the seat of their pants. “I'm a pantser, which means I do no planning. I will get an idea (something I saw or heard, a song, a painting) and I will just start writing. The plot and even the characters develop as I write, and I'm not lying when I say that I often get surprised by what my characters do. I could be writing something with no specific goal,

She has published books through several different avenues. Her advice for new writers is to never give up. “I'm not an expert and it took me a long time to get published, but it can and does happen all the time. So whether you want to be traditionally published or be self-published, the best advice I can give a new novelist is to keep at it. Don't give up. Writing is not for the faint of heart. The romance genre is by far the one that sells the most, but it is also the one with the most competition in terms of numbers of authors and works. It's not easy and don't expect to make a living out of it, at least at first. Go in for the love rather than the money or you will be sorely disappointed,” she advised. “My other gem of wisdom is to keep educating yourself. Go to workshops, classes, read lots of books on the craft of writing. Just having great ideas is not enough. You have to be able to express them clearly and in a way that pleases and hooks readers,” she said. Her books published to date are We Will Always Have the Closet, Loved You Always, Blind Magic, Her Real Man, Fictional-ish, The Jewel Chronicles, Lavender Fields, Dark Feathers, Infinite Blue and Heart's Prey. Her 13th book, Of Magic & Scales, will be published in February 2020. For more information about Natalina Reis, visit her website at natalinareis.com. Amy Taylor (Ataylor@princewilliamliving.com) is a freelance writer and editor. She earned her BLS in English from the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, Virginia.

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change makers Lizz Goldstein “Changemakers” highlights the people of Prince William who are making a difference in our community. This month, we feature Rabbi Lizz Goldstein. How long have you lived in the Prince William area, and what do you most like about living here? I have been in the area for about three years now. I love almost everything about it (excluding the traffic!): the community, the perfect blend of southern hospitality and suburban quiet with the proximity to a major city, the care of the municipal employees and so on! What are some of your favorite things to do in the area and why? Eat! There are a lot of big-box chain restaurants which I found off-putting at first, but lately I have found more and more of the great family owned, small-time and ethnic restaurants. A group of local interfaith clergy meet monthly for a lunch and chat about what’s happening in our houses of worship and our pockets of Prince William. The last few months, we’ve had great success finding all the diverse places to eat in Prince William and are basically making our way around the world, right here in Woodbridge and Manassas! How have you been involved in the community? I am the rabbi at Congregation Ner Shalom. It is technically a part-time position because our community is so small, but I love it so much that I end up devoting the majority of my time to the synagogue. Ner Shalom cares a lot about its wider community involvement, so I try to be sure we are seen at many of the local events and that we are plugged into what good works are happening around Prince William. If you had to give advice to someone new to the area, what would you tell them and why? Be sure to take advantage of all the little happenings around the area! If you’re not paying attention, it’s really easy to mistake many of the towns in Prince William as quiet suburbia with not much going on. But if you pay attention to the calendars on Prince William Living and such and try out the local businesses and parks, it soon becomes apparent how warm and vibrant this whole community really is! How would you describe yourself in three sentences? Rabbi Lizz Goldstein is the spiritual leader of Congregation Ner Shalom in Woodbridge. She was ordained by the Academy for Jewish Religion and moved to Northern Virginia shortly after ordination. She and her husband Philip love movies, hiking and their cat Badger.

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February 2020 prince william living

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destinations

MOVIES AND MORE

in Prince William By Olivia Overman

n recent years, with the onset of streaming services like Netflix and the increasing cost of going to see a movie in a movie theater, some people may think twice about paying to see movies on the big screen. But while experiencing some movies in your PJs on the couch can be a great option, theaters are a part of American culture and are definitely here to stay. There’s nothing quite like seeing your favorite actor looking 10 feet tall and slaying a dragon while sounds engulf you from all sides. Lucky for us, there is no shortage of theaters in Prince William, and you can catch not only newly released movies, but also see timeless classics.

Destination: Movie Theater There are numerous theater destinations to frequent in Prince William — AMC Potomac Mills 18 located in the Potomac Mills Mall in Woodbridge, the Alamo Drafthouse Theater also located in Woodbridge and the Regal Manassas & IMAX on Bulloch Dr., Manassas. There is also the Medal of Honor Theater located at the National Museum of the Marine Corps. Today, movie theaters are offering reclining plush seats, unparalleled picture quality and sound, and most are now offering bar options and full food menus. Gone are the days where you pass away a few hours on a rainy afternoon at the theater. Prince William theaters offer their patrons an evening out and an experience worth paying for!

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February 2020 prince william living

AMC Potomac Mills, Regal Manassas and Alamo Drafthouse Movie Theater These chains have moved with the times and offer a range of upgrades to the movie experience — from reserved seating for reclining chairs in a stadium-like setting, to your choice of sound, Dolby and IMAX, or a 3D experience. AMC Potomac Mills also offers adult beverages at MacGuffins bar as well as an improved food menu that includes stone-fired flatbread pizzas, loaded hotdogs and a gluten-free menu. The Alamo Drafthouse Movie Theater offers newly released movies as well as seasonal classics while also serving food and drinks directly to your seat, a perk many people are willing to pay for. The introduction of rewards programs such as AMC Stubs and Regal Crown Club and subscription services like AMC Stubs A List and Regal Unlimited, where you can watch up to three movies a week for a monthly fee, have kept movie goers coming back for more.

Medal of Honor Theater “The Medal of Honor Theater in the National Museum of the Marine Corps is a … state-of-the-art, giant screen theater with 369 seats and is equipped with a 4K laser projector that provides audiences with ultra-realistic images,” said Jennifer M. Vanderveld, Vice President of Development and Marketing at the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation.

Photo provided by Marine Corps Heritage Foundation

The Medal of Honor Theater in the National Museum of the Marine Corps is a state-of-the-art, giant screen theater with 369 seats and is equipped with a 4K laser projector that provides audiences with ultra-realistic images.

According to the opening press release in July 2017, “the theater, sponsored by Lockheed Martin, presents ultra-realistic images, awe-inspiring visuals and enveloping audio by High Performance Stereo, and will transport visitors into the middle of the action and the edge of their seats.” The museum is open to the public, and ticket prices for the films shown are reasonable for all types of visitors. The theater is currently airing a signature film, We, The Marines, a “giant screen adventure that immerses audiences in the unparalleled experience of becoming and serving as a member of the U.S. Marine Corps. Narrated by Academy Award®-winning actor and Marine, Gene Hackman, the film follows the journey of Marines from boot camp to training, deployment and finally homecoming.” The movie runs every hour on the hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for 38 minutes. The movie theater also offers an addition to the movie experience by offering a simulated rifle range experience that can be combined with a movie ticket for the ultimate military experience for ages 5 and up. The museum is open 364 days a year from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed only on Christmas Day.

Looking for a Different Type of Viewing Experience? Why not try the Irene V. Hilton Planetarium at Hylton High School on Spriggs Road in Woodbridge? The planetarium opened in 1991 and is used by Prince William schools to enhance students’ interest in astronomy. “It matches up to the specific astronomy threads across the entire K-12 curriculum, so if third grade students are learning about Earth, moon, sun relationships or fourth graders are learning about planets, the planetarium has a show for that,” said Anthony Kilgore, planetarium Director. Whether it’s for a birthday party, an anniversary, a scout troop get-together or just a fun evening out, the planetarium

offers both entertainment and education all wrapped into one throughout the year. Kilgore spoke about the changes that have taken place since 2013. “Lots of amazing things are happening at the planetarium! We expanded to offering one Saturday of public shows each month. Usually the last Saturday each month and we call it our ‘Science Saturday’ series,” Kilgore said. The Galaxy Gift Shop has also been added where you can purchase astronaut ice cream or a celestial buddy planet plushie, as well as a host of other cool things before or after the shows. “And how could I forget, we now sell advanced tickets online on our website, HyltonPlanetarium.com. Folks can go on there and purchase the tickets for any night for the specific show they want to see and then come to the planetarium and check in at the box office will-call style,” said Kilgore. The planetarium is closing for a major renovation on March 9, 2020. “We are upgrading everything! Putting in a new 4k laser projection system, all new seamless dome, new seats, the whole nine yards. And all through private donated funds. Lots of love for the planetarium! Our target re-opening is the tail end of June or the beginning of July,” said Kilgore.

Transported to Another Time and Place A visit to the movie theaters or the planetarium is sure to transport people to another time and place just for a little while. Sometimes it is just this kind of escapism that people are looking for, and they can find it all in Prince William.

Olivia Overman (ooverman@princewilliamliving.com) is a freelance writer for both online and print organizations. She earned an M.A. in journalism and public affairs from American University, Washington, D.C. prince william living February 2020

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giving back First United Presbyterian Church of Dale City:

Helping at Home and Abroad By Olivia Overman

ocated on Minnieville Road, Woodbridge, the First United Presbyterian Church of Dale City is a church embedded deep in the Prince William community. Officially chartered as the First United Presbyterian Church of Dale City on April 16, 1972 with the church building built in 1977, FUPCDC has a mission that reaches both locally, regionally and internationally. Their reach expands beyond the walls of the church, to individuals and groups in need of assistance.

Action in Community Through Service Working with ACTS, a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization serving the residents of the Greater Prince William Area, the FUPCDC congregation donates food and personal items throughout the year that are delivered to the ACTS Hunger Prevention Center twice each month. They also support the ACTS domestic violence shelter through quarterly donations of needed items. “Last February we held the Souper Bowl of Caring, where the congregation donated food and personal items such as soap, shampoo and toothpaste totaling 3,266 pounds,” said Pat Manalio, Mission and Outreach Committee member. These donations were delivered to the ACTS Hunger Prevention Center. Donations have been increasing each year with 899.3 pounds and 982.5 pounds donated in the previous two years.

Lakeridge Fellowship House FUPCDC started working with the Lakeridge Fellowship house “after learning about a need,” said Manalio. With 107 residents

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February 2020 prince william living

who live in these low-income, senior apartments, FUPCDC donates personal care items and food, and over the holiday period, they brought holiday cards and a gift for each resident.

Spread the Bread Ministry and Spread the Warmth More than 40 people from FUPCDC participate in a feeding program for people experiencing homelessness in Prince William, every Sunday of the year no matter the weather. A blanket and sleeping bag drive is held on Christmas Eve. In addition, sweatshirts, backpacks and gloves are provided to nearly 300 people. “We believe our congregation has given over 11,000 hours in volunteer hours,” said Pam Cox, Mission and Outreach Committee member. Spread the Warmth is another of the church’s ministries where congregation members knit items such as mittens and scarves throughout the year for distribution to the homeless. Hats are also made and distributed to cancer patients.

Un-Trim-A-Tree “Every year FUPCDC receives a list of about 50 names of children from Prince William County Social Services that need some support over the holidays,” said Cox. Congregation members pick a gift tag off the tree at the church and bring the requested gift and wrapping supplies to the church for delivery to the county.

Photos provided by FUMCDC

Church members volunteer their time and talents for the many programs supported by First United Methodist Church of Dale City.

Lighthouse Drama Camp During the summer months, FUPCDC continues its commitment to the community by offering a summer camp for children ages 5 to 14 years old. Staffed by volunteers and open to the community, the church offers a fun and educational program for children. “Last year the children put on two musical productions at the end of the two-week camp, including one for residents of a local retirement community,” said Cox.

Project Lifesaver A state-of-the-art technology exists that helps locate people suffering from Alzheimer's and other related mental dysfunction disorders who become lost. FUPCDC has provided a financial contribution to fund seven devices over the past year.

National Night Out In continuing to give back to the community, FUPCDC invites the local community to show appreciation for the Prince William County Police in this national program. Food, drinks, games and a bounce house are arranged for this fun evening when county police officers come on their police bikes and vehicles with McGruff the Crime Dog to spend some time with the local community. “Last year over 200 people participated, many from outside the congregation,” said Cox.

Regional and International Programs On a regional and international level, FUPCDC donates time and money to numerous programs that the Mission and Outreach Committee feels appropriate. A few examples include: Kairos Prison Ministries – Volunteers from the FUPCDC facilitate a weekend spiritual retreat for male and female inmates in prisons located in Sussex, Virginia and in the greater Richmond area.

Rise Against Hunger – For the past five years, FUPCDC has been involved in this international meal packing event where congregation members help pack 20,000 meals of soy, rice, dehydrated vegetables, and a flavoring mix with essential vitamins and minerals. Partnering with Covenant Presbyterian Church for the last two years, meals were packaged and shipped overseas to areas of need. Team Yucatan Mission Team – What started out as work to install cement flooring in a village in the Yucatan has now developed into a long-term relationship with eight to 10 congregation members traveling to the Yucatan. The congregation has sponsored and installed three water treatment plants that provide fresh potable water for the communities. Disaster Relief Mission Team – In previous years the church has gone to help with hurricane relief efforts in Lumberton, North Carolina.

Consideration of All Taking on new missions and outreach programs each year, FUPCDC is dedicated to providing support on a local, regional and international level. The Mission and Outreach committee members meet once a month to review suggestions provided by congregation members and to discuss possible needs. With approximately 250 congregation members, FUPCDC is a church making a big difference. For more information about the charitable programs run by FUPCDC, visit fupcdc.org. Olivia Overman (ooverman@princewilliamliving.com) is a freelance writer for both online and print organizations. She earned an M.A. in Journalism and Public Affairs from American University, Washington, D.C. prince william living February 2020

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health & wellness Love Your Heart This February

t’s February and love is in the air! It’s also the perfect time to love your heart health, as it’s American Heart Month.

Heart Disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. Its effects are something Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center Cardiologist Shahryar Mafi MD, FACC sees all too often. Cardiovascular disease is his specialty. “People don’t realize, but there are things they can do to prevent many of these episodes from occurring,” explains Dr. Mafi. “The primary prevention involves diet and exercise. If applicable, weight loss and smoking cessation.” According to the American Heart Association, the estimated annual incidences of heart attacks in the U.S. is 605,000 new attacks and 200,000 recurrent attacks. That means every 40 seconds someone will have a heart attack. Staying on top of your screenings and testing are imperative for good health. “Screening for cholesterol, diabetes and hypertension are very important factors to reduce future cardiovascular events,” says Dr. Mafi. Recent research has shown a direct relationship between the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries and the likelihood of a future heart attack. “Unfortunately, there is no universally accepted yearly testing or imaging for identifying cardiovascular disease. Coronary Artery Calcium Scoring and Carotid Artery Ultrasound are recommended in certain populations,” explains Dr. Mafi. Determine your heart attack risk: Get your Coronary Artery Calcium Scoring exam. Contact your primary care provider or cardiologist for a referral, and then call 703-523-1560 to schedule your appointment.

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February 2020 prince william living

lifelong learning Write by the Rails: Supporting Local Writers By Amy Falkofske here can writers find support from other writers in the Prince William Area? One answer is Write by the Rails.

Photos provided by Write by the Rails

Founded in 2011, WbtR, the Prince William Chapter of the Virginia Writers’ Club, seeks to “assist, educate, promote and encourage the literary community, specifically writers of all levels,” according to Katherine Gotthardt, Founding Member and current President. “We help writers of various genres find their voice while they are given support from the group,” she said. “I think we need to recognize that writing can be a rather solitary endeavor, and that it's important to network with other writers … We need to cheer each other on, celebrate one another's successes and help each other through the rough spells.” Many of those writers who have weathered the storm have gone on to become published authors who give back to the community by taking part in public readings, donating books to local libraries and schools, and conducting workshops. Currently, WbtR is running Poems Around Town, a program that places poetry in public places. The goal is to get residents and visitors to stop and read a short piece of writing they wouldn’t otherwise look at. All of the poems have been written by WbtR members. “These efforts are born from what our members are drawn to do, but at its core, Write by the Rails is there to serve writers who in turn go on to serve the community,” said Gotthardt.

A Variety of Opportunities WbtR holds biannual workshops in the spring and fall. These are low-cost (under $50) educational programs for writers 18 years of age and older. “These workshops include speakers, time to write, networking, book sales and more,” said Gotthardt. Guest speakers discuss topics of interest to writers such as publishing, marketing, writer’s block and finding an agent. To sign up for these events, go to wbtr.org. WbtR also holds monthly enrichments programs for its members who want to “further their learning and practice their skills,” according to Gotthardt. These events are held the second Saturday of the month at 10 a.m. at various local venues. Some months there is a guest speaker. Other months there may be write-ins or critique sessions for writers to share their work and get feedback. Past events have included a write-in on the Metro and one at the McCall Studio Gallery in Manassas. “Sometimes

Write by the Rails supports local writers of all levels. They meet in different venues and have educational activities to educate and inspire.

just a change of atmosphere can be what it takes to kick start creativity and motivation needed for writing,” said Gotthardt. Visitors are welcome to check out the group. For more information, visit wbtr.org or email writebytherails@gmail.com.

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taking care of business

APPLIANCE CONNECTION

A Family Business Spanning Generations By Amy Falkofske | Photos by Mike Delong

ppliance Connection is not just any appliance store — it’s a true family-run business encompassing two generations and working on a third.

It all started 34 years ago in 1985 with a four-person staff consisting of the owners Mark and Pam Tonnesen and their children Marty (15) and Andrea (12) Nohe. There was also a Chevy truck and a used van. Then, in 1995 they moved to their current location, a massive showroom on Prince William Parkway in Woodbridge. Fast forward a bit. Mark continues to be involved in the day-today business, but as the chairman. Pam is very involved with the visionary work of the store, helping them set goals, according to Marty Nohe, now president of the store. About his mom, Pam, Marty said, “She’s absolutely the mom of the family, but she’s also the mom of the business as well.” His sister, Andrea, is now vice-president. Marty’s older children, Rachel (18), a sophomore at NOVA and Nicholas (16) work at the store too. Nicholas works in the warehouse and his dad sings his praises. “He’s one of the best warehouse workers we’ve got,” said Marty. Marty and his wife Kris also have two younger boys who aren’t quite old enough to work in the store yet, although Marty will sometimes bring them in to help him on the showroom floor.

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A true family business, Appliance Connection has been there for the community since 1985.

Andrea’s children are not quite old enough to work in the store yet either, but Marty said, “They probably will someday. Everyone in the family at some point will put in their hours.” Marty spoke to what it was like growing up in the family business and now serving as the president. “A lot of times family businesses have to make a difficult choice between whether they are a business that happens to be run by a family, or that they are a family that gets to run a business together. They have to make a choice between the business side or the family side, and that’s never been a problem for us. We’ve always put the family side of our relationship first because the business could disappear tomorrow, but the relationships we have with each other are going to have to last forever,” he said. Andrea said that Appliance Connection has essentially been her whole life. “It has provided me an amazing opportunity to raise my family while providing for my family. I love the relationships I’ve built with my coworkers, and I feel the full weight of wanting to be sure they can provide for themselves and their families, too,” she said. She also spoke to what it’s meant to be a part of a business that is such a big part of the community. “I also love the connection to the community. When I say I work at Appliance Connection, I’m often regaled with stories of positive experiences people have had with us. But the best is when they start singing our jingle!” Andrea said. Appliance Connection does sales, delivery and installation of new residential major kitchen and laundry appliances, but their phenomenal customer service coupled with great selection sets them apart from other stores in the area. “We started off as sort of a neighborhood appliance store serving the people of Woodbridge, Dale City and Lake Ridge, but we’ve grown into a business that serves customers from the entire D.C. Metropolitan area, the Fredericksburg area, even folks coming from Richmond and Baltimore from time to time because they know about our great customer service and our industry-beating selection,” said Marty. “Because everything happens under one roof, with the direct involvement of the owners and managers, we are able to focus on providing excellent customer service. We want you to come back and to tell your friends about us,” Andrea said. Andrea also noted what makes Appliance Connection distinctive. “I think a big part of what makes us unique is that we are still family owned and operated. We do all of our delivery and installations in-house, using our own employees. We carry most major brands, from the most basic value products to some of the highest-end luxury appliances. We focus on product training for our non-commissioned salespeople, so they are able to take the time to work with customers to help figure out which products will really best serve their needs,” she said. Today, Appliance Connection has 50 employees and runs 10 box trucks, and they possess a clear vision for the future. “We want to be the premier place in all of Northern Virginia to buy appliances and make home improvements. We are really proud

Appliance Connection does sales, delivery and installation of new residential major kitchen and laundry appliances plus a whole lot more.

of having the largest appliance showroom on the east coast and having the best selection and the best customer service that you can find anywhere,” said Marty. Marty also said that without the customers, Appliance Connection would not be where they are. “We are very grateful for the support that this community has shown us over the 34 years being in business here in Prince William County. We’ve enjoyed a lot of success over the years, but that kind of success doesn’t come from hard work alone. It comes from great customers who have come back to us year after year,” he said. He continued by saying, “I can’t make money if I just rely on new customers. It’s the people who return to us every time they have a need and who know that we’re going to take care of them better than anybody else. They keep us in business and for that we’re always grateful.” Stop by Appliance Connection at 13851 Telegraph Rd, Ste 101 in Woodbridge for all of your appliance needs. You can also find them online at applianceconnection.net. Amy Falkfoske (afalkfoske@princewilliamliving.com) is a freelance writer and photographer. She has a Master’s degree in Film-TV with a concentration in screenwriting. She lives in Bristow with her husband, two boys and two Beagle dogs. prince william living February 2020

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family fun

Sharing Love All Month Long By Jennifer Halter

ebruary is the month that we start the countdown to spring and warmer temperatures. But it’s also the month that we use to celebrate LOVE! There are lots of ways to show your family how much you care other than the traditional gifts of chocolate and flowers. Here are five unique ways that you can share the love all month long!

Lunchbox Love Notes

Brighten your child’s day with a sweet note in their lunchbox or backpack to let them know you are thinking of them, even when you are apart. You can write a note on paper or even on their napkin. You can also write notes on their snacks, such as “You are awesomesauce.” on their applesauce cups or “I’m bananas for you!” on the peel of this favorite yellow fruit!

Go on a Heart Hunt

There’s nothing better than giving the gift of time to show others how much you enjoy being with them. Plan to head out on a nature hike or, if the weather doesn’t allow for that, head to an indoor space such as the mall

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or library. Search for as many heart-shaped items as you can find! To add to the fun, you can turn your hunt into a game of I-Spy, or you can see how many different colors of hearts you find.

Make Homemade Cards

No need to spend a lot of money on cards at the store! Grab paper, markers, glitter and other craft supplies and let the creativity flow. You can do a card exchange between members of the family or even mail to loved ones who live far away. You may also want to consider making cards and dropping them off at your local fire or police station, or mail to members of the military to share a little love with them, too!

Host a Valentine’s Dance Party

Put on your fancy dresses and suits and have a dance party at home! Dim the lights, put on your favorite tunes and make it a night the family won’t soon forget. You can even add to the fun by inviting friends over, too! Set up a photo backdrop to capture your sweetest or silliest memories. (continues on page 26)

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SHARING LOVE (continued from page 24)

Valentine’s Play Dough and Slime

There are a lot of parents who avoid having play dough and slime like the plague due to the mess and mishaps that can happen. But there are wonderful benefits to letting your children make and play with these items, such as strengthening little hands to prepare them for writing and teaching older children how to follow instructions and be creative when making them. Here are easy recipes for each:

Valentine’s Day Play Dough

2 cups of all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons of cream of tartar 1 cup of salt 3 tablespoons of oil 2 tablespoons of red glitter (or any color you prefer) 1½ cups of water Red food coloring (10-15 drops) Mix flour, cream of tartar, salt, oil and glitter together in a bowl. Boil water and once boiling, add red food coloring. Mix water and dry ingredients together and let sit for up to 30 minutes while it becomes a doughlike consistency. Add more flour if mixture is too sticky. Once ready to mold, let children create “treats” such as

cakes, cookies and candies to share (pretending to eat, of course!). You can also provide heart-shaped cookie cutters or other heart-shaped items for the children to press into the dough. Store dough in an airtight container.

Valentine’s Day Glitter Slime

1 - 6-ounce bottle of glitter glue (your choice of color, but pink would work well for Valentine’s Day) 1½ tablespoons of saline solution ½ tablespoon of baking soda Combine glue and baking soda until well mixed. Add saline solution and stir until slime is no longer sticky. You can add in heart-shaped beads or confetti to make the slime even more festive. Store in sealed plastic bag or another airtight container. Please note that neither of these recipes are edible. No matter if you go all out to celebrate this month or if you keep your gestures small, remember that three simple words can make a huge impact on your loved one’s day. And, saying, “I love you” doesn’t cost a thing! Jennifer Halter is publisher of Macaroni Kid Woodbridge and Macaroni Kid Gainesville/Manassas.

“I have to take care of my heart. After all, it belongs to her.” Cardiology at Novant Health UVA Health System Prince William Medical Center From the first sign of a heart attack, every second is priceless, and having a nationally recognized cardiology team close to home can make a life-saving difference. We’ve earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Acute Myocardial Infarction and Heart Failure. With rapid response times, and expert clinicians we are dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of America’s number one killer, and bringing the best of health to you.

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home & hearth Everything’s Sweeter With Peaches and Pears

hether they’re fresh, canned, dried or frozen, peaches and pears can easily be included in a healthy eating pattern. Canned peaches and pears are not only delicious and nutritious but are easy to use because they’re precut and washed. When selecting canned peaches or pears, choose ones that are unsweetened or canned in water or 100% fruit juice. Here are two recipes you can try when you’re looking for something different using these delicious canned fruits.

Grilled Cheese With Peaches

This grilled cheese packs an unexpected twist with the sweetness of canned peaches. Not only is this sandwich a quick and easy lunch, but also a fun way to add more fruit and veggies to your day. Makes: 4 servings Prep time: 3 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Ingredients • • • • •

8 slices whole grain bread 1 15-ounce can peaches, drained 8 slices low-fat cheddar cheese 7 1/2 cups spinach 4 teaspoons vegetable oil

Pear Quesadilla

Canned pears are also an easy ingredient to incorporate into meals. When canned, pears retain their tastiness and offer a portable, cost-effective and healthy solution in the off-season. Pears are also very versatile. Canned pears and cheese go well together in this quesadilla, with lots of added flavor from basil, onion, and pepper jack cheese. Makes: 4 servings Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Ingredients • • • • • • •

2 wheat tortillas (8" diameter) 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 1 tablespoon dried basil 2 tablespoons chopped onion 2 canned pear halves (sliced thin) 2 teaspoons olive oil

Directions 1. Sprinkle cheese, onion and dried basil on half of each tortilla. 2. Place pear slices on top of other ingredients in each tortilla.

Directions

3. Brush each side of folded tortillas with olive oil.

1. Heat the 4 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a large nonstick pan over medium heat.

4. Heat each folded tortilla in a nonstick skillet until cheese melts, about 2 to 3 minutes on each side.

2. Place four slices of whole grain bread in the pan.

5. Cut quesadilla into four pieces and serve immediately.

3. Layer (in this order) one slice of cheese, a handful of spinach, four to six peach slices, another slice of cheese and a slice of bread on top of each original slice of bread. 4. After 4 to 5 minutes, flip each sandwich and cook another 4 to 5 minutes. Try this recipe with other leafy greens, such as arugula, and other cheeses.

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TAKING CANCER TREATMENT BEYOND “ONE SIZE FITS ALL”. George Mason University team led by Mariaelena Pierobon and Chip Petricoin is leading breast cancer trials that are extending patients’ lives and personalizing cancer treatment. With five universities and a growing and diverse workforce, Prince William County offers unlimited potential for those that want to see what’s beyond their expectations. Learn how you can go beyond at pwcecondev.org.

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local flavor

Haute Dogs (and More)

in Haymarket By Marianne Weaver

very so often, a new eatery lights up local social media. That’s what happened when Eugene’s Sausage and Fries (15111 Washington Street, Haymarket) opened their doors in May 2019. On local HOA pages, countywide Facebook forums and Yelp, users raved about the small store-front restaurant serving a wide selection of fresh sausages and fantastic fries.

“It’s our signature bratwurst, served on a buttered, toasted pretzel bun, then topped with shaved first-cut pastrami, premium sauerkraut, imported Swiss and our Thousand Island dressing,” he said.

“I found Eugene’s on Yelp in the ‘Hot and New’ section,” said Sampad Das, Lansdowne, Virginia. “The sausages were awesome!”

“The menu was a little difficult to understand, but the owner helped us navigate and gave me the recommendation for the Danger Dog,” she said. “It was sooo good!

Eugene’s is located on the side of the Winterham stores that shares a parking lot with School of Rock. The owners, Jamie Ryder and Jason Hardy, who named the restaurant after a family member, were looking for a location with a “hometown” feel. “At least one of us is here every day, making sure we greet, check in on and thank every guest before they leave,” said Ryder. “We are hospitality professionals with over 70 years in combined experience. We understand guests have many options for dining and truly appreciate that they choose to spend their time with us. We understand how hard people work for their money and want them to know the value and quality of what we serve. We literally have our hands on every dish that we serve.”

The Dogs Ryder said the menu is inspired by classic and modern sandwiches with sausage involved and great crispy French fry combinations. The most popular, he said, is the Rueben.

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D'Shea Denmon, from Aurora, Colorado, was visiting Haymarket and found Eugene's on Yelp.

The Danger Dog is a spicy sausage topped with bacon jam, cheddar sauce and jalapeño relish. Yelp reviewers also raved about the Casablanca, made with merguez sausage, spicy whole grain mustard and Moroccan carrot slaw. “The flavor was really everything the owner described: an explosion of flavor,” said Dan Torres, Los Angeles. “I considered buying one more but having a sweet tooth I opted for the shake.” The menu showcases a handful of specialty sandwiches — the Southern Hospitality, which is a haute dog topped with chili, cheddar cheese sauce and pepper relish; The Hunter, made with either elk or buffalo with wild cremini mushrooms, bacon jam and provolone; and El Diablo, which is a half smoke, spicy mustard, jalapeños, cherry peppers and pepper relish — but also a wide selection to make your own combos. Those choices

Photos provided by Eugene’s Sausage and Fries

The menu at Eugene’s Sausage and Fries is inspired by classic and modern sandwiches with sausage involved and great crispy French fry combinations.

include bratwurst, sweet or hot Italian pork sausage, merguez, herb chicken sausage, rabbit/pork/chicken/bacon sausage, venison seasoned with merlot and blueberry-smoked duck in apple jack brandy and a “haute” dog, made of smoked pork and beef blend. The sandwiches are served on pretzel rolls and can be topped with bacon jam, chili, peppers and onions, sharp cheddar sauce, whole grain mustard, ranch, sauerkraut, curry ketchup or marinara. “Decide whether you’re feeling like something spicy, sweet, savory or all the above and then ask for recommendations,” said Ryder, who noted that his current favorite item is the bulgogi, a marinated Korean beef, kimchi, red and Napa cabbage slaw, all served on a smoked dog. “But I’m never going to turn down a Rueben!”

“The owner was open to questions and told us what his popular sausages were,” she said. “I would recommend to share the fries. They give you plenty. They were fresh and filling. My Chicago was two sandwiches in one — very good. They take pride in their food.” Although there is no dessert menu, the 16-ounce shakes are available in vanilla, chocolate, strawberry and Nutella. Diners will also find an assortment of craft beers.

Marianne E. Weaver (mweaver@princewilliamliving.com) is a freelance editor and writer. She earned a BA from the University of Pittsburgh and an MJ from Temple University.

The Extras Come for the sausage, but don’t overlook the sides … especially the fries. Truffle fries, made with black truffle oil, parmesan cheese and parsley, regular seasoned, and for a bit more, they can be topped with chili, cheese, pastrami or roast beef. Nicole Frazier, Bristow, tried sausage and fries during her first visit. prince william living February 2020

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your finances How to Save for Education Without Taking your Eye Off of Retirement By Bennett Whitlock, CRPC® Private Wealth Advisor

t’s no secret that many American parents want to support their kids by paying for their college education. While the choice to delay retirement to pay tuition is understandable and even admirable, the reality is doing so may not be the wisest financial decision. If you are considering how to balance saving for college and retirement, read on for some perspective.

Prioritize college bills or retirement?

Although it may be hard to hear, saving for retirement should take priority over college tuition. To understand why, consider the following: n You may not get to choose your retirement date. Injury, caring for an aging parent, or a layoff are among the factors that could ultimately make the decision for you. n You don’t want to run out of money in retirement. If your savings come up short, you don’t have the ability to apply for scholarships, grants or financial aid to help bridge the gap. (Your child has access to these options to help pay for college.) Instead, your options are likely to be working longer, finding other sources of income or spending less on travel and other retirement dreams. While it’s imperative to focus on your own financial security in retirement, funding higher education is still an important goal for many parents. The key is striking the right balance between saving for both goals. Consider the following tips as a starting point: 1. Paying for college doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Many parents choose to pay a percentage of the total bill, cover certain expenses (e.g. tuition, technology fees or room and board), pay for a set number of years, or contribute as much as they are able to save by the first day of school instead of funding the full cost. Revising your college savings goal in one of these ways could allow you to direct more money to retirement. 2. If your child has sights on graduate school, decide whether you will contribute to those bills too. This decision is particularly important if your child needs a graduate degree before entering his or her field of choice. If you intend to provide financial support, calculate how much the total cost will be so you have a clear savings target in mind. 3. Discuss your intentions with your child. No matter how much you contribute, talk to your child (if and when your child is old enough) about your financial commitment so he or she knows what to expect. Discuss how your

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contribution will look like at their preferred colleges. For example, if you agree to pay a set amount, perhaps this money will fully cover community college, a substantial amount at a state school, and leave a larger portion of the bill outstanding at a private college. Breaking down the costs for your child can help him or her make an informed decision about how much student debt (or scholarships, grants, etc.) are needed to cover the bill. No matter your financial situation, know that it is possible to make meaningful progress toward both goals, particularly if you are intentional about how to allocate your savings. Consult a financial advisor and tax professional if you want help setting specific savings goals and understanding the various investing options available to you. Bennett C. Whitlock III, CRPC®, is a Private Wealth Advisor and Managing Director with Whitlock Wealth Management, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Contact him at 703.492.7732 or visit whitlockwealth.com.

Take charge of your financial future. Since 1894, Ameriprise Financial has helped millions of Americans feel more confident about their financial future. As an Ameriprise financial advisor, I remain true to our vision of always putting clients first. Discover the one-to-one attention you deserve, call me today at 877.WHITLOCK. Bennett C. Whitlock III, CRPC® Private Wealth Advisor Whitlock Wealth Management A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. 877.WHITLOCK 12848 Harbor Dr, Ste 101 Lake Ridge, VA 22192 9073 Center St Manassas, VA 20110 bennett.c.whitlock@ampf.com whitlockwealth.com

Whitlock Wealth Managment Ameriprise Private Wealth Advisory Practice

From bankers to barbers, restaurants to retirement planners, Prince William Chamber members are among the most trusted businesses in our community.

OmniLink Gets You There THE RIDE THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU! For appointments, shopping or just meeting friends for lunch — OmniLink will get you there. Safe, dependable and affordable, OmniLink buses serve routes in Dale City, Dumfries (including Quantico), Woodbridge, Lake Ridge, Manassas and Manassas Park. And with an advance call, buses can leave the standard routes to serve locations up to 3/4 mile off the route. Discounted fares for seniors 60 years and older or persons with a disability are $0.75 per ride or get unlimited rides all day with a local bus day pass for $1.80 or weekly pass for just $7.15. Our helpful Customer Service Agents are ready to answer your questions: Monday - Friday • 5:30 AM to 8:30 PM • 703-730-6664 Or catch us on the web at PRTCtransit.org

OmniLink, your link around town! OmniRide • OmniLink • Cross County Connector • Metro Direct • OmniMatch are services of the Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission.

PRTCtransit.org (703) 730-6664 or (888) 730-6664 Virginia Relay Center-TDD, call 711

SmarTrip® accepted on all PRTC buses. PRTC participates in the Guaranteed Ride Home and SmartBenefits Programs.

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calendar

can put to work immediately in your business. RSVP princewilliamliving.com/ breakfastwithanexpert.

Harry Potter Movie Night Ice Skating at Harris Pavilion

february

Wed. and Thurs. 3-9 p.m. Fri. 3-10 p.m. Sat. noon-10 p.m. Sun. noon-7 p.m. Harris Pavilion 9201 Center Street, Manassas Weather permitting, the ice-skating season is in full swing at Harris Pavilion in January. Call 703-402-8297 to determine availability.

Lucasville School Open House Weekends

Sat. Feb. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 | 11 a.m.4 p.m. Sun. Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23 | 11 a.m.4 p.m. Lucasville School 10516 Godwin Drive, Manassas Celebrate African American History Month at historic Lucasville School during open house weekends in February. Visit the reconstructed 19th century school used by the community of Lucasville. Learn surprising facts of African American history in Prince William County. Each weekend, enjoy a different activity in the schoolhouse, including activities, crafts and exhibits.

Sunday Fights

Sun. Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23 | 4-7 p.m. Tech Time Gaming 13592 Jefferson Davis Highway, Woodbridge Every Sunday afternoon, Tech Time Gaming hosts a fighting game tournament in one of a rotation of featured games, including Mortal Kombat 11, Tekken 7, Soul Calibur VI, Dragon Ball FighterZ and Street Fighter V.

Prince William Living Presents Breakfast with an Expert Thurs. Feb. 6 | 8 a.m. Online Only Join us for information from an expert, who will give you actionable advice you

Thurs. Feb. 6 & Feb. 27 | 6-9 p.m. Tucked Away Brewing Company 8420 Kao Circle, Manassas Come watch Harry Potter on the projection big screen. Come in your cloak or bring your magic wand! Family friendly. Outside food welcome. Sit back, relax and have a beer.

First Friday: 6th Annual Souper Bowl

Fri. Feb. 7 | 6-9 p.m. Historic Downtown Manassas The restaurants of Historic Downtown Manassas compete in the 6th annual Souper Bowl! Purchase a tasting pass, then stroll to participating locations to taste the different soups. Each location will feature a different soup from a downtown restaurant. Be sure to come hungry and dress warmly!

Father-Daughter Dance

Fri. Feb. 7 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. Manassas Park Community Center 99 Adams Street, Manassas Park All participants ages 5-12 may bring their parent or favorite guardian to the annual Father-Daughter Dance. Come for the dance, with music and refreshments, accessories and photo ops.

Occoquan Chocolate Walk

Sat. Feb. 8 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Historic Occoquan The annual Occoquan Chocolate Walk will feature Valentine’s chocolate tastings and treats, shopping and a chance to win a $500 Occoquan shopping spree! Save time searching for parking by using the free shuttle service. This event is free and open to the public. No purchase necessary to enter raffle. Hosted by the Occoquan Merchants Guild.

Detox to Retox … Beer & Yoga

Sat. Feb. 8 | 10:30 a.m.-noon Brew Republic Bierwerks 15201 Potomac Town Place, Woodbridge

This monthly beer and yoga class is a basic 60-minute Vinyasa Flow suitable for beginners and experienced students. Participants will enjoy basic and advanced poses, receive hands-on assists and learn breathing techniques to be more mindful when it comes to the beer tasting!

The Rainbow Fish

Sun. Feb. 9 | 1 and 4 p.m. Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas Dive under the sea into the shimmering and colorful world of The Rainbow Fish with this heartwarming stage adaption of Marcus Pfister’s treasured storybook. This performance is lovingly brought to life by the Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia. The 4 p.m. performance is sensory-friendly. Tickets: hylton. calendar.gmu.edu/

Family Open House: A Celebration of the Rehearsal and Education Wing Sun. Feb. 9 | 2 p.m. Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas The community is invited to attend a Family Open House celebrating the opening of the Education and Rehearsal Wing. This event will take place between Hylton Family Series performances of Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia’s The Rainbow Fish. Enjoy interactive, familyfriendly activities featuring community partners, fun giveaways and an opportunity to explore the expansion. Free.

Chocolate Smackdown

Wed. Feb. 12 | 3-4 p.m. Chinn Park Regional Library 13065 Chinn Park Drive, Prince William Young adults: Can you tell the difference between different types of chocolate? Try some different kinds of chocolate and vote for your favorite in the best tasting election ever!

Be My Valentine!

Thurs. Feb. 13 | 11 a.m.-noon Independent Hill Neighborhood Library 14418 Bristow Road, Manassas For children: Make a present for your Valentine. All supplies are provided. No registration required.

Have an event? Visit princewilliamliving.com/events to submit details to our online calendar.

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Friends of Potomac Library Book Sale Fri. Feb. 14 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat. Feb. 15 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun. Feb. 16 | noon-2 p.m. Potomac Community Library 2201 Opitz Boulevard, Woodbridge Books, Audio Books, DVDs and CDs of all kinds available. Great selection! Sunday is Books by the Bag!

Presidents’ Day Revolutionary War Encampment

Sat. Feb. 15 | 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Rippon Lodge Historic Site 15520 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge The Second Virginia Regiment was authorized by the Virginia Convention, July 17, 1775, as a force of regular troops for the Commonwealth's defense. Come to Rippon Lodge to meet members of the Second Virginia, see their encampment, ongoing historical interpretation, cooking, drilling and more. Tours of the historic lodge are included.

Youth Orchestras of Prince William: A February Festival

Sun. Feb. 16 | noon Hylton Performing Arts 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas YOPW presents a festival of music sure to chase away February’s chill, featuring the Repertory, Concert, and Youth Symphony Orchestras. Tickets: hylton.calendar.gmu. edu/

Prince William Living Lunch With the Publisher

Wed. Feb. 19 | noon Online Only Are you an advertiser with Prince William Living or interested in becoming one? Meet the people behind greater Prince William’s premiere lifestyle magazine, as you learn about getting your press releases published, tying into the power of our social media presence, visibility packages that increase your reach to targeted consumers and tips on how to focus on your message. RSVP at princewilliamliving.com/ lunchwiththepublisher.

Polar Plunge 2020

Sat. Feb. 22 | 10 a.m. Leesylvania State Park 2201 Daniel K. Ludwig Drive, Woodbridge Break out your swimsuit! It’s time for a chilly dip into the Potomac with several hundred of the coolest Special Olympics supporters in Northern Virginia. With live bands, prizes and a costume contest for the fanciest plungers! More information: polarplunge.com/princewilliam.

African American History at Brentsville Courthouse

Sat. Feb. 22 | 11 a.m., 1 p.m. Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre 12229 Bristow Road, Bristow Explore the lives of African Americans in the 19th century from the perspective of Brentsville Courthouse. Learn about how they lived, their experiences and how they were treated in the community. Hear about the hardships they faced, such as enslavement and a lack of rights, and the triumphs they achieved before the county seat moved in 1893.

Family Day: Iwo Jima 75th Anniversary

Sun. Feb. 23 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. National Museum of the Marine Corps 18900 Jefferson Davis Highway, Triangle Seventy-five years ago, a vicious battle raged in the Pacific Theater of World War II. During the fight, six Marines raised an American flag that would spark the drive to continue the fight toward victory. Join the staff of the National Museum of the Marine Corps as they commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima with history talks, artifact displays, activities for children and a patriotic concert by The President’s Own.

Swan Lake

Sun. Feb. 23 | 12:55 p.m. Regal Virginia Gateway Stadium 14 & RPX 8001 Gateway Promenade Place, Gainesville 14870 Lightner Road, Haymarket Captured live, direct from Moscow, Russia, this historic masterpiece of

breathtaking beauty born at the Bolshoi Theatre remains an all-time audience favorite.

National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine

Sun. Feb. 23 | 2 p.m. Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas Celebrating their Jubilee 100th concert season, the National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine is considered one of the finest symphony orchestras in Eastern Europe. Under the direction of Artistic Director Volodymyr Sirenko, the orchestra performs a program of Eastern European gems. Tickets: hylton.calendar.gmu.edu/

Prince William Chamber of Commerce Business Awards

Thurs. Feb. 27 | 6 p.m. Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas Celebrate Prince William Chamber member businesses for their innovation, business sense and their commitment to the community. Register at pwchamber.org.

Espionage in Prince William: Preparation for D-Day Thurs. Feb. 27 | 7 p.m. Old Manassas Courthouse 9248 Lee Avenue, Manassas Representatives from the Cold War Museum at Vint Hill Farm near Gainesville introduce the secret story of the formation of the Ghost Army. They discuss General George S. Patton, its fictitious commander and communications originating from Vint Hill codenamed Operation FORTITUDE. This deception was instrumental in fooling the German High Command leading to Allied success at Normandy in World War II.

All events listed on Prince William Living’s online and print calendars are subject to change. Check with the venue to verify dates, times and locations.

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There’s a very good chance she could leave it all to the dog. We’ll give you a leg up.

At Thrive Senior Living, we’re a lot like any family. Which makes us a whole lot less like other senior living communities. We treat your parents like they’re our parents. We get to know them, not as

patients or as residents. But as

people. We do more than care for them. We care about them. That’s what makes us Thrive. That’s what makes them thrive.

Tribute at The Glen 4151 Old Bridge Road, Woodbridge, VA 22192 571.402.1870 | ThriveSL.com/TheGlen A Thrive Senior Living Community

COME TO LIVE HERE.

Prince William Living February 2020

Articles inside

LOCAL FLAVOR

HOME & HEARTH

CALENDAR

FAMILY FUN

HEALTH & WELLNESS

FEATURE STORY

CHANGE MAKERS

GIVING BACK

LIFELONG LEARNING

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS

DESTINATIONS

FROM THE PUBLISHER