Prince William Living March 2019

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COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

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THE DENTAL SPA

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SPRING FORWARD

prince william living March 2019

The premiere lifestyle magazine of Prince William and Greater Manassas

Meet Our Five Influential Women!

PAGE 4

Discover Something New at a Local Park PAGE 14

Diners in Prince William PAGE 30

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table of contents March 2019 | Vol. 9 | No. 3

FEATURE STORY Prince William Living Magazine’s Most Influential Women of 2019 4

DEPARTMENTS FROM THE EDITOR IN CHIEF It’s Been a Good Ride

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ON A HIGH NOTE Manassas Chorale Celebrates 25th Anniversary

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DESTINATIONS Discover Something New at a Local Park

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GIVING BACK Community Connections: Volunteer Prince William Makes a Difference

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LIFELONG LEARNING NOVA Partners with Amazon to Offer a Cloud Computing Specialization Option

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TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS The Dental Spa: A Kinder Approach to Dentistry

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FAMILY FUN 4 Activities to Help Your Family “Spring Forward”

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LOCAL FLAVOR All-American Options: Diners in Prince William CALENDAR

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COLUMNS THE FASHION FOLDER HEALTH & WELLNESS HOME & HEARTH YOUR FINANCES

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prince william living Rebecca Barnes

PRINCE WILLIAM LIVING PUBLISHER rbarnes@princewilliamliving.com DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Amanda Causey Baity

Kim Howard, CAE EDITOR IN CHIEF khoward@princewilliamliving.com

VICE PRESIDENT OF CONTENT MARKETING Katherine Gotthardt, kgotthardt@princewilliamliving.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jennifer Halter, Helena Tavares Kennedy, Roxy Rowton, Ashley Claire Simpson, Amy Taylor, Marianne Weaver, Bennett Whitlock

ONLINE SUBMISSION MANAGER Carole Keily

COPY EDITOR Apryl Motley, CAE

GIVE BACK PRINCE WILLIAM INITIATIVE Melissa Payne, melissa@givebackpw.org Johnnie Barnes, johnnie@givebackpw.org

PHOTO EDITOR Amanda Causey Baity

CLIENT CARE SPECIALIST Diane Puigdomenech, dpuigdomenech@princewilliamliving.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS Delia Engstrom, Sean Floars, Dawn Gardner & Rob Jinks

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Vanessa Vega Braun, vbraun@princewilliamliving.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Alison Dixon/Image Prep Studio

Prince William Living, the premiere 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. Š Copyright 2019 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.

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March 2019 prince william living

from the Editor in Chief It’s Been a Good Ride

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his month’s issue is bittersweet because it will be my last as editor in chief. I’ve spent the last four years learning more about our community, and my experience has enriched me as a local citizen and as a publishing professional. As I move on professionally, know that I leave the magazine in the capable hands of our next editor in chief, Katherine Gotthardt.

Our March cover story by Marianne Weaver introduces you to our Influential Women. “Prince William Living’s Most Influential Women 2019” by Marianne Weaver highlights impressive local women. Meet them on page 4.

Writer Helena Tavares Kennedy takes over this month’s Giving Back and profiles a worthy nonprofit. “Community Connections: Volunteer Prince William Makes a Difference” delves into what the non-profit does for the local community and offers you ideas on how to volunteer. For more information, turn to page 18.

This month’s Destinations shows us how to take advantage of the plentiful parks that Prince William hosts. “Discover Something New at a Local Park” by Carla Chistiano on page 14 discusses many ways that residents can enjoy nature.

In this month’s Family Fun, Jennifer Halter helps families spring forward by offering up “4 Activities that Help Your Family ‘Spring Forward’” on page 24.

It’s been a pleasure to serve you and this magazine. If I had to make the decision again to join the Prince William Living team, I would. One of my favorite movies is “The Sound of Music.” I am not sure if it’s the story, the actors, or the music that makes me watch it over and over again. So, in the immortal words of Rogers and Hammerstein, “So long, farewell, auf Wiedersehen, good night. I hate to go and leave this pretty sight.”

Kim Howard, CAE Editor in Chief

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Prince William Living Magazine’s

Most Influential Women of 2019

By Marianne E. Weaver | Photos by Dawn Gardner

influential women award

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hen Prince William Living launched its first Influential Women Awards five years ago, we quickly realized that this initiative resonated with readers. Entries poured in, and the issue announcing the inaugural winners was one of our most-read to date.

This year was no different. Choosing just five women from the impressive entries was no easy task for our judges, all past winners themselves.

Although Prince William is home to many women who give their time and talent to improving their neighborhoods, schools and communities, these five women stand out from the crowd and serve as inspiration to others: Betty Dean, Lori Leary, Detra Moorman, Sarah Pitkin and Corliss Udoema.

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Congratulations to these Influential Women!

A Woman with a Plan: Betty Dean “When people use terms like ‘pillar of the community,’ Betty Dean is who they have in mind,” said Sheyna Burt, one of Dean’s nominators. “When Betty identifies a need, she commits herself entirely to seeing that the need is met. Often that means dedicating her own time and talents to the endeavor.

It also means empowering others to identify and use their own abilities to improve the community.”

Dean has held numerous titles: chairman of the board of the Prince William Chamber of Commerce and co-chair of its strategic planning committee; immediate past president and current vice president of the Greater Prince William Coalition for Human Services; co-founder and president of Occoquan River Communities; member of the board of directors and chair of the communications and awards committee of People Inc.; and past secretary and service chair of Rotary Club of Lake Ridge.

Dean grew up in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., and then moved to Wilmington, Del., where she met her husband Barry in 1999.

“We were engaged to be married and house-hunting inside the beltway in early 2000, and it was exhausting.” she said. “One of Barry’s colleagues had told him that the town of Occoquan would be a nice place to visit. We drove to Occoquan as tourists and left knowing we had found our home together.”

She spent the next 13 years leading communications and development efforts for Didlake, a Manassas-based nonprofit that creates opportunities to enrich the lives of people with disabilities. “My previous career had been in financial services, but now I was going to work every day thinking about how to create opportunities for people with disabilities,” she said.

“The more I got involved in furthering that mission, the more personally fulfilled I felt. From there, it was very natural to expand on that work by getting engaged in other ways. I guess it has kind of snowballed.”

Jo-Ellen Benson, another nominator, worked with Dean developing a strategic plan for another nonprofit. “She is an inspiration just by example,” said Benson. “Her kindness and caring for others and for her community is genuine. There is nothing pretentious or phony about her, and that is refreshing

in today’s world. Her volunteerism and leadership are something to aspire to, not to mention her incredible knowledge and willingness to share her knowledge so that we all better understand the issues and topics being discussed.”

A Dog’s Best Friend: Lori Leary Lori Leary, president and founder of the Prince William Humane Society, didn’t set out to be an animal advocate. Although she has always loved animals, the Las Vegas native had a solid career in financial investigations before tragedy struck.

“I lost my puppy, Lucas, tragically to a drowning on Jan. 25, 2005,” said Leary, who has lived in Prince William since 1992. “I was heartbroken and felt that his loss should not be in vain, so I began saving other dogs lives in any way I could.”

She fostered, rescued and drove homeless pets up and down the East Coast to place them in new homes, but realized that unless more pet owners spayed or neutered their pets, the high euthanasia rates at local animal shelters would never decline.

“I eventually decided to form a nonprofit to help low-income pet owners spay/neuter their pets. I created Let Us Consider Adopting Strays (LUCAS) with a friend in 2006 and held fundraising events to subsidize spay/neuter services for a few years.”

Despite the challenges of starting and running a nonprofit, nominator Elliott Leary said his wife grew more passionate about this cause. While running LUCAS, she was appointed to the Prince William County Animal Advisory Committee where she became more involved with the Prince William County Animal Shelter.

“As she learned more about the shelter, she became troubled by its inability to provide the needed animal services and by the high rate of euthanasia in Prince William County,” he said. “The Prince William County Animal Shelter didn’t have the resources required to meet the needs of the community, so Lori started the (continues on page 6)

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(continued from page 5) Prince William Humane Society primarily to fundraise for the shelter and the homeless pets in its care.”

Since the society’s establishment in October 2012, more than 1,300 pets have been rehomed. “Results, that is why Lori Leary is a woman of influence in Prince William County,” said Supervisor Jeanine Lawson, R-Brentsville. “Lori has shown passion, perseverance and leadership in her quest to provide better treatment of homeless animals in Prince William County.

Lori’s influence helped secure a new animal shelter and create an offsite adoption center run by the PW Humane Society.”

Leary said the tragedy led her to find her true calling. “I love living in Prince William County, and I love animals,” she said.

“The best days I have are when I get to play matchmaker at the Adopt Shop, introducing potential adopters to our wonderful cats and dogs. I get to know a little about them and what they are looking for in a pet and then watch in delight as they get to know their next fur baby and witness their joy as they sign the adoption contract and get their picture taken. I feel like I’ve made a difference in their lives, and I know I’ve made a difference in the pets’ lives.”

Community Connector: Detra Moorman In Swahili, Jirani means neighbor or neighborhood.

In Manassas, it means a 3,200 square-foot space that serves coffee and the community. The force behind this community hub is Detra Moorman.

“Incorporating her career experience into the opening of her Jirani Coffeehouse in March 2016, Detra has impacted Greater Prince William by pouring her time, knowledge, wisdom, networks, expertise and—most importantly—her love for the community together to build this community serving experience that is way more than coffee, it is community,” said nominator Kevin Williams.

Moorman, originally from Oxford, Miss., has lived in Prince William for more than 20 years. She moved here in pursuit of an IT career but stayed to build a family. Although she credits her husband, Ken, with the vision of the community coffeeshop, she has tapped into her love of community to create a space where people stop by for more than just a cup to go.

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“We’ve coined the phrase: coffee, community and the arts,” she said. “All of those things make Jirani what it is.”

Under Moorman’s guidance, Jirani hosts a multitude of community-building events, including: n Open Mic “With A Cause,” which gives local artists an opportunity to entertain and local nonprofits an audience to learn about their organizations; n Baby Café, a partnership with Novant Health UVA Health System, that provides free resources for pregnant and breastfeeding women; n The Doctor Is In, another partnership with Novant Health, which features a doctor speaking on various topics monthly; and n Free coffeehouse concerts with local high school and community orchestras.

“Detra is deeply committed to generating, organizing and marketing many arts-centered and community-based events and programs through her outreach at Jirani Coffeehouse,” Williams said.

Moorman was a recipient of the Prince William County Minority Business Network Award and the Prince William County Chamber of Commerce 2018 Community Outreach Award. She is a longstanding member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and The Northern Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce.

Caring for Others: Sarah Pitkin Longtime Prince William resident Sarah Pitkin may have left the region to pursue her education, but her heart has always remained in Prince William.

“I was in the first fouryear class at the Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology.

Back then it was a longdistance phone call for us to call friends who lived in Fairfax County,” she said.

“When I went away to college, I was the kid who would call home and ask how to get home because, truly, the roads in Prince William County were changing so fast.”

She earned a bachelor’s degree from the College of William and Mary, a master’s in education from Vanderbilt University and a doctorate from Kent State University. During a summer in college working at Camp Tapawingo, she found her calling:

supporting and advocating for people with disabilities. After 10 years away, she came home to join the family business, Pitkin’s Home Center, and continued supporting people with disabilities at work and as a volunteer.

“We hire people based on what they can do, not what they can’t do,” she said. “When the challenges we face every day are met with a bit of compassion and consideration, everyone benefits.”

With that mission, she has taken on leadership roles with a few local nonprofits. She is the board treasurer of Didlake Inc., which works with people with disabilities of all types to “create opportunities for persons with disabilities” by finding them employment. She is the board secretary of The Arc of Greater Prince William/INSIGHT, an agency that provides day care, recreation, therapeutic services, employment services (including Spin-a-Web weaving shop in Occoquan) and residential services for people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.

She is a member of the Potomac Health Foundation board of directors, which annually provides local nonprofits approximately $5 million in funds that are used for community health purposes.

She is also board president of the Virginia Retail Merchants Association, treasurer of the Pennington Traditional School and a 2011 graduate of Leadership Prince William.

“Sarah devotes countless hours to community service,” said her husband and nominator Jason Hickman. “She has made me a better person because of all that she does for me, for our kids, and for the community. She does this without ever seeking any recognition. She does it because of who she is.”

Community CEO: Corliss Udoema Kisha Wilson-Sogunro said Corliss Udoema lives by the mantra, “To whom much is given, much is required.”

“Whether she is leading the charge for the Hope in a Bag project, offering hygiene kits to the homeless, providing resources that teach tech skills to seniors, or mentoring a host of entrepreneurs, she is a genuine community champion,” said Wilson-Sogunro. “Ms. Udoema is a true inspiration in service and sharing with others.

She is transparent about her business successes and enjoys the fruits of her labors, remaining humble by knowing that it is not how her business succeeds that impacts her life, but the impact she is privileged to have on the lives of others.”

Udoema is the president/CEO of Contract Solutions Inc., which was selected as one of the 5,000 fastest growing private

companies in America by Inc. magazine in 2017 and 2018, as well as one of the 2018 top 50 fastest-growing companies in Virginia. She is a board member at the Serve Our Willing Warriors Retreat at Bull Run, which provides a much-needed break for recovering service members and their families who are being treated at military hospitals in the National Capital Region. She also serves on the Prince William County Government Council where she mentors entrepreneurs and contractors during monthly meetings by guiding them through new best practices for networking as well as the latest trends and regulations associated with creating mutually beneficial partnerships with local, state and federal agencies.

Udoema said her purpose is in serving others. “How can I be here and breathe air and not help someone?” she asked. “ It is in my DNA. I don’t know how not to do that. It is who I am.”

She started her Hope in a Bag project on Thanksgiving Day 2009. Udoema said she loves to cook, so instead of asking guests to bring food for the feast, she asked for contributions for residents at a nearby homeless shelter.

“After we finished dinner, we put bags together,” she said. “I’ve been taking them ever since.” In 2018, of 5,100 bags, 4,000 have been delivered throughout Prince William.

When Hurricane Florence hit her hometown of New Bern, N.C., she knew she needed to help. With support from Prince William small businesses and friends, Udoema and three others departed with thousands of pounds of food, along with clothing and gift cards.

“She transformed her own home into a donation center,” said Wilson-Sogunro. “She leveraged partnerships with the City of Manassas, Prince William County Senior Center, the Manassas Boys and Girls Club and the local chapters of the Girls Scouts.

For monthly service projects, volunteers sorted and bagged soap, shampoo, shaving cream and snacks to help those in need.”

She also founded Wisdom Meets Technology (WMT), which provides interactive computer literacy classes for senior citizens.

A class is currently ongoing at the senior center in Manassas as a result of a partnership with the City of Manassas and the Prince William Area Agency on Aging.

“She has found time to serve her community and remains committed to her faith as she serves as a minister at Mount Olive Baptist Church in Centreville, Va.,” Wilson-Sogunro said.

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.

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on a high note Manassas Chorale Celebrates 25th Anniversary

By Amy Taylor | Photos by Delia Engstrom

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anassas Chorale started a quarter of a century ago as a group of 25 voices joining to bring greater appreciation and enjoyment of quality music to Manassas. Those voices now number 100: Over the last 25 years, the Chorale has quadrupled in size. They’ve also moved from performing just locally to performing for audiences across the world.

The group has also become the official choral group in residence at Hylton Performing Arts Center, located on the Prince William campus of George Mason University. When the Hylton Center opened in 2010, they were the first resident arts partner to hold a sold-out concert.

Manassas Chorale has performed in the community at churches, assisted living facilities and civic groups. They enjoy giving back to their community by performing at benefit concerts and for luncheons and dinners as they are invited.

“They have also performed Candlelight Concerts in Colonial Williamsburg for 17 years, at the Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle and at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center in New York City,” said Becky Verner, Director of Manassas Chorale.

“Members of the Chorale have also sung in England, Ireland, Wales, France and Germany as part of ‘Perform International’ tours and at Washington National Cathedral.”

One of their favorite performances was a meal for cancer survivors in Gainesville, Verner said.

Choosing Favorites When putting together a performance, Verner listens to over 200 pieces. From those, she selects 15 or 16 pieces for each concert.

She said they’re all her favorites.

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Manassas Chorale is celebrating its anniversary by holding a series of landmark performances.

“This year, we’ve done popular music for our ‘Silver Serenade’ concert and wonderful carols and seasonal songs for our ‘Silver Noel’ concert. The spirituals we’ll sing in March are vibrant and rhythmically fun to sing, and the patriotic repertoire for our May concert allows us to express our gratitude at being American and pay tribute to our armed forces and our veterans,” Verner said.

The Chorale plans to celebrate with a luncheon the weekend of their final anniversary concert. Current and former members will gather together to celebrate this milestone anniversary.

Manassas Chorale has performed in the community at churches, assisted living facilities and civic groups. They enjoy giving back to their community by performing at benefit concerts and for luncheons and dinners as they are invited.

“Our Chorale singers are a wonderful group of people who love to sing, to be friends with each other and to share their gift of music with our community and around the world,” said Verner.

“We have an outstanding accompanist, Kristina Schenck; an experienced, creative director [Becky Verner]; talented orchestra members who accompany our concerts; a beautiful venue—the Hylton Performing Arts Center, right here in Manassas—and appreciative audiences.” We hope the next 25 years see us reaching even greater heights!

Manassas Chorale’s Anniversary Performances Manassas Chorale is celebrating its anniversary by holding a series of landmark performances. Verner described some of them.

“Silver Voices: Voices United” will be held on March 23, 2019 at 7:30 p.m. in Merchant Hall at Hylton Performing Arts Center. The Voices United concert features selections by the 95voice Manassas Chorale as well as the 150-voice Voices United Workshop Choir. The Chorale, directed by Verner, will share a variety of sacred selections, including hymn arrangements and rousing spirituals by several American composers. The Voices United Workshop Choir will be directed by Dr. Rollo Dilworth, clinician, from Temple University. Dr. Dilworth has over 100 published compositions and arrangements, and both groups will be sharing his pieces. “The grand finale will feature 180 singers with instrumental accompaniment,” Verner said.

“A Silver Salute to the Red, White and Blue” will be held on May 31 at 7:30 p.m. in Merchant Hall at Hylton Performing Arts Center. “A Silver Salute to the Red, White and Blue will be a concert of patriotic music and music by American composers and arrangers. The Manassas Chorale will be joined by the 52voice Greater Manassas Children’s Choir and by an orchestra of 21 talented instrumentalists,” Verner said.

Verner also said, “Members of the Chorale will sing at a Benefit Concert in The Plains that’s planned for October 25 and the full group will sing the Candlelight Concert at Bruton Parish Church in Williamsburg on December 12 at 8 p.m. Both of these will be open to the public—the first one is ticketed and the second is free with a freewill offering.”

What’s more, the group will venture across the pond to perform at Winchester Cathedral in England on June 7, 2019. And they will travel to perform in New York City at Carnegie Hall on December 2, 2019.

Amy Taylor (ataylor@princewilliamliving.com) is a contributing writer for Prince William Living magazine.

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the fashion folder Spring Fashion: Uniting Beauty and Utility

By Roxy Rowton

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n the sphere of design, there has long been a school of thought that guided the design process: Form follows function, the principle that the shape of a design, space, or object should be primarily based upon its intended function or purpose. Citing the proverbial expression that necessity (function) is the mother of all invention illustrates that for every object, garment or accessory, there was first a reason for being or a need.

Shoes were for cushioning the soles of the feet, bags were for carrying items larger than the two hands, coats were for protection from the climatic elements, brooches were for closing capes before button closures, dusters were for shielding clothing from the dust of the trail, trench coats were for keeping soldiers warm in the trenches of war, and a chemise was a simple undergarment for protecting clothing from perspiration and sweat.

Even in fashion, the concept that form follows function holds true to an extent. A jumpsuit, a garment of utilitarian performance, has a long-time association with aviation, aeronautics and motor racing, but transforms into something altogether fashionable when fabricated in silk, satin, and proportions becoming the female form. After all, it’s still a jumpsuit, but dressed up and elevated in a more luxurious fabric and figure enhancing silhouette. Fashion enunciates through function.

In fairness, there are clothing brands that have adhered to a sense of pragmatism and capable clothing for the modern, independent woman. These brands provide practical, indispensable pieces for the contemporary female closet that extend ease, comfort and utility specifically suited for the activities of an enterprising woman. While fit and function are the focus of these apparel brands, fashion and style are frequently overlooked.

And yet, women have long been imposed to acceptance of lopsided clothing standards. The assembly of the female wardrobe often comes up against “pink taxes” (higher prices) and inferior workmanship, as well as a shortage of innovative designs to foster a fusion between fashion and function.

Throughout the chapters of fashion, a woman’s clothing offered very few choices to celebrate her authentic sense of femininity and ingenuity through garments designed with a bent toward beauty and utility.

For spring 2019, fashion attempts to bridge the deep chasm between opposing views. Form or function? Style or utility?

Designers reconstruct utilitarian silhouettes through a thoroughly modern lens of movement, practicality, softness and strength. It’s a collection of fundamental classics redesigned with a harmonious blend of utility and beauty in a modern, but sophisticated sensibility by which to get dressed.

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There’s a lot to look forward to in spring fashion, especially for those who are neutrally minded and find simplicity in layering the earth tones from top to toe. The spring color story showcases earth and desert neutrals of tan, cream, khaki, sand, clay and olive with optimistic pops of sunshine yellow, radiant coral and vibrant purple.

To call a pocket a dressmaker embellishment or trim is grossly undervalued. Pockets in a woman’s garment are a big deal.

Most of the female population relishes a garment that is designed with well-thought-out pockets. The spring collection of garments is packed with pockets—pockets for holding essentials close at hand.

Prepare to dress sensibly and confidently in an unabashed edit that redefines the classic concepts of femininity with an undeniably utilitarian attitude and functional sartorial details.

Expect garments embracing movement and eschewing anything that is restrictive, but constructed from restraint for a mood that is undoubtedly practical and beautiful. When in doubt, go with fashion that follows function. Slip into a season of beauty in utility: trenches, wide leg pants, sleeveless jackets, camp shirts, midi shirtwaist dresses, cargo pants and Bermuda shorts with inverted pleat pockets and hidden zip pockets, jumpsuits, web belts, snap closures on bodice, sleeves, and pant, and much more.

The spring collections pay homage to a modern woman’s sense of sensibility with garments that celebrate her quiet confidence and highly capable spirit. They showcase designs reflecting the contemporary woman who never wants her choice of clothing to compromise her sense of style, beauty or utility. Select utilitarian garments that feel authentically yours, translating the pieces into your own expression of individuality and style.

Wardrobe and style consultant Roxy L. Rowton (rlrowton@ everydayrefinement.com) spends much of her workweek in the closet or the fitting room helping women look and feel their best. She has two-plus decades in the fashion, apparel and beauty industries.

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Operational and administrative opportunities are available for volunteers of all backgrounds and skill sets.

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www.OWLVFD.org prince william living March 2019

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destinations

Discover Something New at a Local Park

By Carla Christiano | Photo by Sean Floars

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s the days get longer and spring seems so close, you may long to be outside. You are in luck in the Prince William area. We have two national parks, a state forest, a state park and more than 50 county and city parks to explore. These parks vary in the activities and amenities they offer. Although it may still be early in the season, you may discover a new park or something new at your old favorite.

Biking Prince William Forest Park is a more than 16,000-acre park near Triangle. Although most known for its hiking trails, the park has more than nine miles of unpaved roads and twelve miles of paved roads available for cyclists. Three miles of the park’s Scenic Drive are a dedicated bike lane. The park boasts twelve roads that range from easy to difficult; however, bikes are limited to just those roads and are not allowed on hiking trails.

Cost: $15 admission per car, good for seven days; $7 admission per biker, good for seven days Address: 18170 Park Entrance Road, Triangle, VA 22172 Website: nps.gov/prwi/planyourvisit/bicycling.htm Other parks for biking: James Long Park, Haymarket: Hikers, bikers and horseback riders share four miles of trails.

Locust Shade Park, Triangle: Bikers and hikers share 4.5 miles of trails.

Silver Lake Regional Park, Haymarket: Hikers, bikers and horseback riders share four miles of trails.

Conway Robinson State Forest, Gainesville: Bikers and hikers share five miles of trails.

Boating, Canoeing and Kayaking The Lake Ridge Golf and Marina Park is a 74-acre park on the Occoquan Reservoir in eastern Prince William County. It offers public access to the Occoquan Water Trail and threeseason rentals of motorized Jon boats, row boats, canoes, kayaks and paddle boards. For a fee, the park also offers a universal access boat launch, which can be used year-round for personal watercraft (max. 9.9hp) but is subject to weather closings.

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March 2019 prince william living

Cost: varies, based on boat type and launch Address: 12350 Cotton Mill Drive, Woodbridge, VA 22192 Website: pwcgov.org/government/dept/park/lakeridgepark/ Pages/Lake-Ridge-Marina.aspx Other parks for boating: Silver Lake Regional Park, Haymarket, has a 24-acre lake but restricts motor boats.

Leesylvania State Park, Woodbridge, on the Potomac River allows motor boats (no restrictions) and provides boat ramps and seasonal rentals of kayaks, canoes and paddleboards.

Camping If you crave getting away from it all, but without getting too far away, camping at Prince William Forest Park might be for you. The park has three front-country campgrounds: the 100-site Oak Ridge campground, the nine-site Turkey Run Ridge Group Campground and the Prince William Forest RV Campground, run by a concessionaire. It also has the Chopawamsic Backcountry Area, which is an eight-site, hike-in/ hike-out, backcountry campground, as well as five cabin camp sites, consisting of structures the Civilian Conservation Corps and the Works Progress Administration built during the Great Depression in the 1930s. All campsites must be reserved. Rules and operating times depend on the campground.

Cost: varies, depending on the campground Address: 18170 Park Entrance Road, Triangle, VA 22172 Website: nps.gov/prwi/planyourvisit/camping.htm Another park for camping: Leesylvania State Park, Woodbridge, has a few primitive group camping sites available.

Fishing Manassas National Battlefield Park in western Prince William County is known for its storied history and its hiking and bridle trails. Yet, the park also has year-round fishing at five ponds in the park. State fishing regulations are enforced, and a Virginia State Fishing License is required for residents older than 16.

According to the Hook and Bullet website, largemouth bass, catfish and bluegill have been caught there.

Cost: free Address: 6511 Sudley Road, Manassas, VA 20109 Website: home.nps.gov/mana/planyourvisit/fishing.htm Other parks for fishing: Lake Ridge Golf and Marina Park, Woodbridge, provides access to the 2,000 plus acre Occoquan Reservoir. Fish: channel catfish, largemouth bass, crappie and bluegill Locust Shade Park, Triangle, has an eight-acre lake. Fish: channel catfish, largemouth bass, crappie and bluegill Silver Lake Regional Park, Haymarket, has a 23-acre lake. Fish: Bank fishing for bluegill and largemouth bass Leesylvania State Park, Woodbridge, has a 300-foot accessible fishing pier on the Potomac River. Fish: catfish, perch and striped bass

Hiking/Fitness The 400-acre Locust Shade Park near the Quantico Marine Corps Museum in Triangle offers boating, golfing and fishing, but people often overlook its 4.5 miles of trails through woodlands, including a recently expanded fifteen-station fitness trail. A part of the trail near the lake connects to the National Museum of the Marine Corps trail.

Cost: free Address: 4701 Locust Shade Dr., Triangle, VA. 22172 Website: pwcgov.org/government/dept/park/locustshade/Pages/ default.aspx Other parks for hiking: Multiple Prince William County parks: For a list, see pwcgov.org/government/dept/park/pages/recreation-naturehiking.aspx Dean Park, Manassas: The 70-acre city park has .9-mile trail.

Conway Robinson State Forest, Gainesville: Bikers and hikers share five miles of trails.

Leesylvania State Park, Woodbridge, has six miles of easy-tomoderate trails as well as a 20-station fitness trail. Two trails are handicap accessible.

Manassas National Battlefield Park, Manassas, offers 40 miles of hiking trails.

Prince William Forest Park, Triangle, offers 37 miles of hiking trails.

Recreational Equipment Inc. (REI) publishes the Hiking Project website at hikingproject.com, which lists recommended hiking trails nationwide.

Skateboarding Prince William and the City of Manassas boast the only two outdoor skate parks. Both parks were designed by skateboarders.

Within Veterans Memorial Park in Woodbridge, the Scott D. Eagles Skateboard Park is a concrete dream for local skateboarders and in-line skaters. It has a 60-foot kidney bowl next to the 6,300-square foot open-flow course of ledges, stairs, grind rails, ramps and jumps. This free park is maintained by the skaters, and skaters participate at their own risk.

Cost: free Address: 14300 Veterans Drive, Woodbridge, VA 22191 Website: pwcgov.org/government/dept/park/vetspark/pages/ vets-skate-park.aspx Another park for skateboarding: Dean Park, Manassas, replaced the Old Town Skate Park and has a small concrete surface with grind boxes, rails and bank ramps near Jennie Dean Elementary School and the Martin K. Alloy Boys & Girls Club of Manassas.

Cost: free Address: 9501 Dean Park Lane, Manassas, VA 20110 Website: manassascity.org/375/Parks Carla Christiano (cchristiano@princewilliamliving.com) is a native of Prince William County, an admitted history geek and a technical writer for Unisys. prince william living March 2019

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giving back

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Volunteer Prince William Makes a Difference

By Helena Tavares Kennedy

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Photos provided by Volunteer Prince William

f you’ve taken a tag off a tree during the holidays and purchased gifts for local children and seniors in need through the local Un-Trim-A-Tree program, you’ve helped Volunteer Prince William (VPW) meet a community need. Or perhaps you were a recipient of such gifts. But were you aware of the many other local services the organization provides to the community?

As the motto on VPW’s website, volunteerprincewilliam.org, says, “It begins with the power of one.” The nonprofit organization helps coordinate and meet community needs through volunteer resources and has been since 1981. VPW not only runs the popular Un-Trim-A-Tree holiday gift program, the organization also facilitates these key community services: n Volunteer Connections, n Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), n Disaster Services, and n Court-ordered Alternative Service Program for adults and juveniles.

VPW is the coordinating agency for all court-related community service work in Prince William County, for both adult and juvenile cases. According to Shelley Tibbs, VPW’s adult and juvenile alternative service program coordinator, the services VPW provides are so important because they help “clients be successful.”

Helping Retired and Senior Volunteers Find the Best Fit Mrs. Claus is a VPW Volunteer.

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Jan Hawkins, RSVP director, leads the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, which helps individuals age “55 and better” find volunteer opportunities in the community. RSVP volunteers help deliver Meals on Wheels, drive veterans to local medical

volunteer needs of partners through a weekly “Call to Action” column that reaches 25,000 households in the region. VPW also facilitates connections with organizations, businesses and clubs to meet community needs.

Learning volunteer management best practices is also essential, and VPW offers this service through training and consulting services.

The organization sponsors the Volunteer Coordinators Network, a working group open to all volunteer managers which promotes professionalism and networking opportunities for all members.

Mary E. Foley, VPW’s executive director, said that the best thing about the organization and what they do is “connecting people where they are most needed while utilizing the volunteers’ time and talents [in ways] that also meet their expectations.”

A VPW Volunteer puts together bicycles for Untrim A Tree gift recipients.

appointments and provide education on being “safe at home” to fourth grade students in local schools, among other services.

“Today’s seniors are extremely active with traveling, visiting family members and volunteering for local nonprofits,” said Hawkins.

“They are always on the go and really passionate about making positive change in our community. They don’t let a minor detail like being older slow them down!”

One VPW volunteer, Ted Campbell, delivers Meals on Wheels for RSVP. Campbell said, “Interacting with senior citizens is the most rewarding part of RSVP. I feel like I’m making a worthwhile contribution to help others, and I enjoy knowing I am able to provide a nutritious meal and critical social interaction to clients who are by themselves during the day.”

There are many testimonials and thanks that VPW receives from people the organization has helped in the local community, including a recent note from Occoquan Elementary School that said, “We are most grateful we can count on you as a benefactor during this festive season to bring the simple joy of a toy to our children in need.”

Disaster Services and Assistance Bonnie Fulford, disaster services coordinator, helps manage volunteer resources before, during and after weather emergencies.

“Rather than all relief efforts getting spun up here and there, we coordinate with local governments, businesses and human service organizations to ensure the help reaches those in need,” said Fulford. “We match and direct volunteers to organizations where they can do the most good.”

“Volunteer Prince William has been active in several snowstorms, providing volunteers for snow removal to senior citizens and persons with disabilities when they have a home health care provider coming to their door, or they need to get out for medical appointments,” continued Fulford. “Additionally, volunteers with four-wheel drive vehicles have transported dialysis patients to and from their appointments.”

Volunteers are not just needed for disaster relief. Volunteer Prince William runs a robust outreach program based on three tenets of disaster preparedness: 1) Build a kit; 2) Make a plan; and 3) Be informed. Another component is donations management.

“Following disaster events, many groups and individuals are anxious to help but are unsure as to the best way to go about it,” said Fulford. “It is always of paramount importance to learn exactly what is needed, rather than to assume.”

Begin with the power of you VPW is always looking to connect volunteers and their skills and talents to organizations that can use them. If you would like more information on how you can help or if you are in need of services, you can reach VPW online at volunteerprincewilliam.org or call 703-369-5292.

VPW is located at 9248 Center Street in Manassas and is an affiliate member of the Points of Light Institute and Hands On Network, whose mission is to inspire, mobilize and equip people to take action that can change the world. Because one person at a time really can change the world.

Helena Tavares Kennedy (hkennedy@princewilliamliving.com), a longtime Prince William County resident is a freelance writer, editor, and communications consultant at htkmarketingservices.com.

Making Connections VPW is like a couple’s matchmaker but for volunteers and organizations that need volunteers. The organization conveys prince william living March 2019

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health & wellness Incontinence and Women

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t’s an issue not many women want to talk about, but millions face it every day. Incontinence, or an involuntary leakage of urine, affects approximately 15 million American women. Recent research shows a direct relationship between the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries and the likelihood of a future heart attack. Many people with plaque or calcium deposits clogging their heart’s blood vessels do not have any symptoms or warning signs, yet they may be in danger of having heart attacks.

Incontinence, pelvic prolapse and pelvic pain are just some of the issues Dr. Alok Desai, an urologist at Potomac Urology and Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center, sees often: “I treat women in their early 20s all the way to their 90s,” she said.

Dr. Desai has been practicing female urogynecology and male urology for more than a decade and is certified in both fields.

“The field has really developed with combining urology and gynecology into female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery,” said Dr. Desai. “This has the potential to help many women who deal with quality-of-life issues from incontinence after having children to, as they age, recurring urinary tract infections, vaginal prolapse or sexual dysfunction.”

A number of these issues surface after childbirth, and many women feel like it’s something they just have to live with, but according to Dr. Desai, that’s not the case. There are many treatment options. “If it affects your quality of life, you should go see an urogynecologic specialist and get it checked out because there are some basic treatments that can help,” said Desai. “We can try medications or minimally, non-invasive techniques like pelvic floor physical therapy. Only 20 percent of my patients require surgical treatment for their problems, and many of those are done on an outpatient basis.”

If you or someone you love is living with these pelvic floor conditions, suffer no longer. Call 1-800-SENTARA or visit sentara.com to find a provider who is right for you and can you get back to your busy life again.

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lifelong learning NOVA Partners with Amazon to Offer a Cloud Computing Specialization Option

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orthern Virginia Community College (NOVA) now offers an innovative degree offering designed to address one of the most pressing skill-demands in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and the nation. As part of a collaboration between Amazon Web Services’ AWS Educate program and NOVA, the College will offer a cloud computing specialization as part of its Information Systems Technology (IST) associate of applied science degree that started in the fall of 2018. The degree program will be one of the first cloud computing programs in the nation offered by a community college. Cloud and distributed computing has been highlighted by LinkedIn as the number one in-demand global skill for the past three years in a row, with Northern Virginia housing one of the largest concentrations of IT jobs in the nation.

The two-year IST Cloud Computing degree program will serve as a catalyst for individuals who wish to pursue positions in cloud computing and as a foundational base for any career in the IT profession. This new associate degree program will build on core competencies found in the IST degree (hardware, security, programming) and develop skills in the cloud environment focused on Infrastructure-as-a-Service (virtualization, server management, storage and networking) and Platform-as-a-Service (application deployment, capacity provisioning, load balancing and scaling).

The 63-credit associate degree program is mapped to skills and competency-based credentials required by AWS and other employers who leverage cloud-based services. The curriculum also is designed to prepare students to earn industry recognized credentials. In addition to embedding cloud services into a number of courses that provide students with technology skills and critical-thinking capabilities, the NOVA curriculum will include three new “cloud” courses – Cloud Computing: Infrastructure and Services, Information Storage and Management and Virtual Infrastructure: Installation and Configuration. All students will receive also free membership in the AWS Educate program and gain hands-on experience with leading cloud technology and tools.

“The Northern Virginia region is home to one of the largest concentrations of IT jobs in the nation, as well as one of the greatest demands for employees with cloud computing skills,” said Dr. Scott Ralls, NOVA president. “This new cloud computing program is our latest initiative to meet the highly skilled employment needs of technology employers and to offer pathways to family-supporting careers for our students.”

“We’re thrilled to collaborate with NOVA on this degree program, as they break new ground to open up opportunities to careers in cloud computing for students in the state of Virginia and around the globe,” said Teresa Carlson, vice president of worldwide public sector at Amazon Web Services Inc. “With this program, we seek to build a strong pipeline of talent to contribute to innovation across sectors in the growing and dynamic field of cloud computing. Cloud computing is creating a massive job opportunity, and NOVA is playing a leading role in moving community colleges to the forefront of this revolution. We believe that this degree offering, and our collaboration with community and vocational programs around the world, can fundamentally alter the role that these institutions play in helping to build and diversify the pipeline of new, exceptional talent in the tech community.”

In parallel with this degree offering, NOVA is working with Columbus State Community College to increase awareness of cloud computing and the number of certified IT professionals within their respective regions. Together, the two colleges have submitted a proposal, Reach for the Cloud: Building an IndustryAligned Pathway to Careers in Cloud Computing, to the National Science Foundation—Advance Technological Education (NSFATE) in support of developing cloud computing two-year programs nationwide.

“A key part of the new Virginia economy is building up our talent pipeline to match our education system, and aligning our training programs around the skills needed, such as cloud computing, for 21st century jobs,” said Governor Ralph Northam. “Community colleges like NOVA are important engines for workforce development, and this collaboration with Amazon Web Services marks an exciting first step in a broader plan to bring cloud computing education to students across the Commonwealth of Virginia.”

Cloud Computing courses will initially be offered at NOVA’s Alexandria, Loudoun and Woodbridge Campuses, with general education, personal development and foundational IT courses available at all of NOVA’s five comprehensive campuses and online. Additionally, NOVA will share its cloud computing curriculum with other educational institutions around the world, helping to promote the global needs of educators and students.

For additional information on the new Information Systems Technology (IST) Cloud Computing specialization degree program, contact Dr. Chad Knights, Senior Academic Leadership Fellow at cknights@nvcc.edu. prince william living March 2019

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taking care of business

The Dental Spa A Kinder Approach to Dentistry

By Tracy Shevlin | Photos by Rob Jinks

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r. Marvette Thomas has been operating The Dental Spa in the Dillingham Square shopping center for the past 16 years. While most people view going to the dentist as a necessary evil, Thomas runs her office with a kinder and gentler approach. By following her own dental spa methods, she works to overcome barriers that make people uncomfortable with going to the dentist. According to Thomas, the three major reasons that people avoid going to the dentist are related to fear, time and cost. The Dental Spa operates with the goal of overcoming those barriers.

In 2018, Thomas had a banner year. She received recognition as the “Best Dentist in Prince William County” from Inside Nova and received the Human Rights Award from the Prince William Human Rights Commission as well as the Congressional Record Award from Congressman Gerry Connolly (D-VA). She has been honored by the Coalition of 100 Black Women, which now offers a four-year scholarship in her name called the Dr. Marvette Thomas Economic Empowerment Award. Lastly, she was awarded the Bigger and Better Business Award by the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity.

Prince William Living spoke with Thomas to find out more about her award-winning practice.

What to Expect at The Dental Spa The office feels different to patients immediately upon entering.

The typical clinical sights, sounds and smells of a traditional dental office are not immediately apparent. Instead, people are greeted with warm colors, pleasant music and a spa bar with a selection of teas. In the treatment areas, there are blankets, chair massagers, televisions and earbuds to make people more comfortable. Each element in the waiting area and treatment spaces is intentional. Thomas explained that the idea is to replace the old sensory perceptions, even the sensory memory, that cause many people anxiety.

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Dr. Marvette Thomas

Thomas said that while the physical space is important, it is only one facet to overcoming people’s fears. According to Thomas, her staff members also play a role in the practice’s success.

“When we hire new people, we are very particular,” she said.

“We look for those who not only have a particular skill set but who are also service-oriented. Collectively, all of us, the dentists, the schedulers, hygienists and assistants, must all share the same patient-first values.”

New patients are invited to come for a free consultation and feel the difference for themselves. At the consult, providing information is key to overcoming some of their anxiety. Patients receive information about the condition of their teeth and can develop treatment plans that are best for them. The Dental Spa

has billing specialists who work with insurance companies to determine which services will be covered and assist customers in making financial arrangements. In the event third-party financing is needed, Thomas said, The Dental Spa’s longstanding relationships with their preferred healthcare financing companies have allowed customers to receive favorable rates.

Sedation Dentistry and Teeth in a Day “Sedation dentistry” is a popular term often heard in radio and television commercials, and it covers both oral and intravenous means of achieving conscious sedation. It can be an appealing concept for patients who have high anxiety and /or need to have a substantial amount of dental work done at one time and for others who have difficulty finding time for appointments.

Traditionally, conscious sedation was achieved by administering drugs through an IV line to sedate the patient. In oral conscious sedation, patients are awake, and they are given medication under their tongues. Thomas explained that although the patients are awake, they don’t remember much about the appointment due to the anterograde amnesiac properties of the benzodiazepines used. She added that oral conscious sedation is more popular than other methods at this time.

The state of Virginia is very strict about the requirements needed to be licensed for sedation. Offices are equipped with additional medical equipment, such as EKG monitors, and are better prepared for emergencies, if one should arise. Thomas is a fellow of the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation Education (DOCS). To earn that recognition, she has published articles on the topic using her cases, completed extensive clinical hours and participated in case studies. While all offices that practice sedation dentistry are required to have the same additional equipment, not all sedation dentists are fellows.

Teeth in a Day Another new concept in dentistry is the ability to get new teeth in a day. In previous generations, getting implants or dentures was a lengthy process that required substantial recovery time.

Today, with the newest developments in teeth implantation, people can have teeth pulled while under sedation and awaken to an aesthetically pleasing smile and fully functional teeth in the same day. This process is also called the “All on 4 Dental Implants” procedure. It is a treatment for patients with no teeth or badly broken teeth or those with severe gum disease that are in need of a final resolution. The best part of this procedure is that it can be completed in one day. Thomas added, “The new innovations in dental care allow people to leave the office with smiles in place and feeling restored in a sense. It helps people feel more confident.” Ultimately, it also restores their oral health while improving their overall health.

Over the years, Thomas has worked hard to positively impact others’ health through her practice and humanitarian efforts.

She has worked with and trained a number of dentists who have taken on her philosophy of kinder, more gentle dentistry.

As each patient is treated in her practice, that may be her true legacy—improving health and changing attitudes about dentistry.

Additional information about the Dental Spa can be found at thedentalspaofvirginia.com.

Tracy Shevlin (tshevlin@princewilliamliving.com) is a native Virginian and long-time Manassas area resident. She is a graduate of George Mason University where she is also an office manager. Follow her on Twitter @nvalady1. prince william living March 2019

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family fun

4 Activities to Help Your Family “Spring Forward”

By Jennifer Halter

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his month, we will experience a change of season as winter transitions into spring. On March 10th, we’ll also begin Daylight Savings Time as we set our clocks ahead by one hour. In our family, that means getting excited about more sunlight during our days and more opportunities to enjoy warm weather activities.

Here are four fun activities you can do with your family as you “spring forward” and welcome the new season!

1. Grow something new. You don’t need a large yard to grow something new to welcome spring. You can use small planters and pots that can be placed on your porch, on your deck or in the window sill to grow herbs and flowers. Another idea for a group activity is to use mini paper cups. Fill each cup about

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¾ full with potting soil, add seeds of your choice and water. Once the sprouts begin to grow, transplant them into a larger pot.

2. Find spring. Take a walk around your neighborhood or at a local park and look for signs that spring is coming. Have the kids play a game of I-Spy as they search for budding flowers and freshly growing leaves on trees. You can also compare old, dry leaves to new ones and discuss the differences in color and texture. Make note of sounds as well, such as chirping birds or buzzing insects.

3. Clean. Although this probably won’t be a favorite activity for every member of the family, spring is the perfect time to clean and organize. Have each (continues on page 26)

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SPRING FORWARD (continued from page 24) child try on warm weather clothes you have stored to see how much they’ve grown and donate or consign what no longer fits. Evaluate family chores and decide if they need to be adjusted as schedules change to accommodate spring activities or if they are still age-appropriate. Ask each family member to find 10 things they no longer use to donate and help declutter the home.

4. Plan outdoor fun. Spring will mean the return of opportunities to get outdoors with sporting events and festivals. Make a plan, as a family, of which events you would like to experience and write them on your calendar. Be sure to have a good mix of paid and free activities to help you stick to your family budget. Even if you don’t want to attend events, you can still plan your time outdoors exploring parks and other spaces.

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home & hearth How to Brighten Your Home with Houseplants that Bloom

By Melinda Myers

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righten your indoor décor with plants that bloom. Whether you grow traditional favorites, flowering tropical plants or annuals that get moved inside for winter, their colorful flowers are sure to elicit smiles and months of enjoyment. Just provide the right growing conditions and sufficient light, and you will be enjoying months of indoor color.

You may have enjoyed an initial burst of color from traditional favorites like African violets and orchids but struggled to get them to flower again. Maximize your enjoyment and their colorful floral display by providing supplemental lighting. Plants with colorful flowers benefit from brighter or longer periods of light, especially in winter, than what streams through your windows. Grow lights, which provide bright, full-spectrum illumination, are an ideal solution.

You can find many types of grow lights, including simple hanging lamps, DIY fixtures, and metal stands. These are often relegated to the rec room or basement but might be less welcome in your living room. Consider furniture-style light stands like the Bamboo LED Grow Light Gardens (gardeners. com) that will complement your living spaces. They’re outfitted with special high-output bulbs that are tucked out of sight and provide light more than twice as bright as that of most standard LEDs. This allows you to grow most flowers, and even some fruits, without needing to raise and lower the lights to accommodate different plant heights.

Once you have your supplemental lighting in place, expand your indoor flowering plant collection with a few tropicals. Here are just four of my favorites.

1. Flowering maple (Abutilon). Give them bright light and cooler winter temperatures to enjoy their beauty all year long. The solid green or variegated maple-shaped leaves inspired their common name. Plants may be compact and upright or vining, while the flowers may resemble those of hibiscus or dangling lanterns. Select varieties known for year-round flowering.

2. Chenille plant (Acalypha). Create a focal point with these unique blooms. The long, fuzzy, cascading flowers resemble chenille yarn. They are perfect for a hanging basket, set upon a plant stand or pruned into tree form. This plant needs high humidity and plenty of light to maintain its health and year-round beauty indoors.

3. Shrimp plant (Justica brandegeana). Enjoy its coppery bronze flowers. This long-blooming Mexican native performs best in bright light and high humidity. Use it as a hanging basket, prune into a small tree or set it upon a plant stand where the cascading shrimp-like flowers can be enjoyed.

4. Lipstick vine (Aeschynanthus). Brighten your fall and winter décor with these vivid red flowers that emerge from dark

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maroon structures, resembling a tube of lipstick. The glossy green foliage adds needed greenery indoors throughout the year. The more light these plants receive, the better the floral display.

Whether you’re growing tropicals or traditional favorites indoors, always check plant tags for specific care instructions.

You can also boost your indoor floral display by placing annuals you’re overwintering, such as geraniums and mandevilla, under lights to encourage blooming. Give these plants bright light, water thoroughly as needed, and enjoy the extra color. Prune if necessary, to keep the plants full and compact.

Incorporating flowers into your living space will boost your mood and reduce stress while livening your indoor décor.

Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio segments. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Her website is MelindaMyers.com.

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local flavor All-American Options

Diners in Prince William

By Marianne Weaver

A

ccording to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a diner is a “small, informal and inexpensive restaurant that has an extensive menu and that is often made from or designed to resemble a modified railroad dining car.”

kids. Most Sundays we are a group of 23 but have been known to bring more (my parents have 27 grandkids). Everyone calls the owners’ mother ‘Mama,’ and the waitresses love to play with the babies.”

But that’s not exactly how Prince William residents define a diner. For some, the most basic requirement is affordable comfort food and tasty desserts. Others set the threshold at specific menu items: open-faced turkey sandwich … with homemade gravy; meatloaf; mashed potatoes. Pretty much everyone expects all-day breakfast options.

Some things have not changed: “Mama” makes all of the soups and gravies. “We stand apart because we serve good quality, good portion foods at reasonable prices,” said Elias.

As for the type of building, there doesn’t seem to be a consensus: Prince William diners are just as likely to be found in standalone buildings along busy highways as they are in strip malls scattered throughout the region. Some have fed generations of families; others are setting up shop in newly developed sections of the region.

The Yorkshire Restaurant (7537 Centreville Road, Manassas), opened in 1950.

“There were five owners before we bought it in July 1979,” said Elias Natour, who bought the restaurant with his brother Matt.

“We were 16 and 18 when we bought this place.” Manassas was a different town then. Centreville Road was only two lanes.

“My family has been eating at Yorkshire for over 20 years,” said Mary Rose Lalli of Manassas. “We started coming when my youngest brother was in grade school, and now he brings his

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He said breakfasts are popular all day long. Country-fried steak and chicken are also ordered frequently. But the “Top Hat Special,” a sandwich made with ribeye steak, ham and bacon, topped with provolone cheese, lettuce, mayo and tomato, is a customer favorite.

The Yorkshire Restaurant is open seven days a week: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sundays.

Back in Time Like the Yorkshire, The Jukebox Diner (8637 Sudley Road, Manassas) is open seven days a week. The doors open every day at 7 a.m. and stay open until 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday.

Friday and Saturday, they stay open until midnight.

Although the diner opened in 1996, it brings back memories of the fabulous 1950s. Despite its location in a modern strip mall, walking through the door is like taking a stop back in time. There is classic rock-n-roll music in the jukebox, tiled walls and brightly colored booths and barstools. American

classics—omelets, pancakes, hamburgers, milkshakes and classic desserts—are complemented by a wide variety of Greek, middle eastern and European dishes. In keeping with modern times, the menu also features gluten-free options, and ingredients are sourced locally whenever possible.

Nora Taste of Lebanon in a strip mall that is home to many international cuisines, including Afghan, Indian and Ethiopian, as well as a Hookah lounge. Although the founders are gone, owner Judith Sanchez—who took over the business in November 2018—said loyal patrons encouraged her to keep the diner.

The Silver Diner (14375 Smoketown Road, Dale City) might also appear rooted in the 1950s, but the owners claim it has “reinvented the diner experience by creating a menu featuring classic American favorites with a contemporary twist for today’s lifestyles—heart-healthy options, no trans-fat, fresh and locally sourced ingredients, and entrées with fewer than 600 calories.”

“We were closed for a few weeks after the original owners left,” she said. “But people in the community told us they wanted us to reopen as a diner.”

Stephanie Sun and her husband stumbled upon the Silver Diner in July during their road trip from Oregon to North Carolina.

After leaving Colonial Williamsburg, they consulted Yelp for a diner along their route to Pennsylvania “I compared the options of breakfast and brunch places along our route without more than 15- to 20-minute drive out of the way and picked Silver Diner,” she said. “I particularly liked Silver Diner not only for its high reviews, but also the variety of its menu items.

To me food is more than just fuel in the tank; it is a culture, an experience, something to be meticulously created and enjoyed.

The menu included avocado toast with optional smoked salmon (my personal choice), and French Toast (my husband’s choice), both turned out to be awesome.”

The Silver Diner is open Sunday through Thursday, 6:30 a.m. to midnight and Friday and Saturday 6:30 a.m. to 2 a.m.

New Neighbors The Gainesville Diner (14674 Lee Highway, Gainesville) originally opened in February 2017. The diner replaced

Gainesville resident Antonnie Trammell said his family was looking for an after-church brunch. “We found the diner on Yelp, saw the pictures and reviews and decided to give it a try,” he said. “We’re very happy we did. That place is now our go-to if we go out for brunch on Sundays. The quantity and pricing of the food is amazing!!”

Marti Whitehead, Gainesville, also discovered the Gainesville Diner on Yelp. “I highly recommend trying the open-faced turkey sandwich dinner. Last time I checked, they were still roasting the turkeys in-house,” she said. “I found this diner to be comfortable, clean, and friendly. The quality, in my opinion, is better than other (non-chain) diners I’ve been to. Fresh house salads that rival any other higher end restaurant and fresh mixed veggies on the dinner platters plus Eggs Benedict on the breakfast menu put this place in the top spot as far as diners go.”

The Gainesville Diner is open every day 7 a.m. until 8 p.m.

Editor’s Note: This is not an exhaustive list of diners. Please consult your preferred search engine for more local options.

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. prince william living March 2019

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your finances Returning to School as an Adult? How to Fund Tuition

By Bennett Whitlock, CRPC® Private Wealth Advisor

M

illions of Americans in the workforce are heading back to school to further their education. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 3.5 million students enrolled in college for fall 2016 were age 35 and older. These adult learners are enrolling for a variety of reasons: earning MBA or master’s degrees to improve their growth in their current jobs, training for new careers, or satisfying an urge to expand their knowledge base. If you decide additional education is the right option for you, be aware that college costs are on the rise. How will you pay for it? Here are some options to consider: n Your savings. Consider what savings you may have available to put toward tuition. If your return to school is still a semester or two away, start setting aside specific savings you can use for this purpose. Be sure to account for the cost of books, technology and other fees your school of choice may require. Resist the urge to tap into your retirement accounts. While it may be tempting, you have other sources of funds to pay for school that are not available to pay for your retirement. n 529 Plans. A tax-advantaged 529 college savings plan is typically used as a savings vehicle for future education needs of children or grandchildren. However, you can also establish a 529 for your education or tap unused assets you established in a child’s account for your expenses. n Tuition reimbursement. Returning to school is particularly attractive if your employer offers a tuition reimbursement program. In practical terms, this means you could further your education and potentially improve your job and career prospects at a reduced cost to you. Important caveats may be tied to the reimbursement, such as only covering tuition for coursework in an area relevant to your current role or requiring you to remain with your employer for a period of time after completing your education. Check with your human resources department to see what benefits are available to you. n Grants and scholarships. There is no age limit to qualify for federal financial aid. Financial need dictates the ability to qualify for grants at the federal level, which may limit your opportunities. However, you may also be able to find scholarships from other sources that are specifically designed for older students. Your school’s financial aid office is often a helpful resource. n Loans. Adult students are eligible to take out traditional student loans. If you do, be thoughtful about the amount you borrow and diligent about repaying them quickly after graduation. You may be able to deduct a portion of the

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March 2019 prince william living

student loan interest from your gross income, subject to certain limitations. n Tax credits. There may be opportunities to reduce your tax bill if you qualify for education-related tax credits. For example, the Lifetime Learning Credit is a tax credit of up to $2,000 per tax return for qualifying higher education expenses (income limits apply).

Which option—or combination of options—is right for you?

Enrolling as a full-time student means higher upfront costs and a bigger time commitment. Yet, it can result in a degree or certification faster, which may be ideal if you are eligible for a higher-paying position afterward or if you are funding your schooling through scholarships and loans.

If you choose to complete a class at a time, your education will take longer. Financially, this could allow you to absorb tuition and fees into your regular budget or pull the funds from a 529 account that is earning investment income in the meantime.

Additionally, doing so may maximize your tax credit and reimbursement options.

No matter how you fund higher education, consider how the cost fits within your overall financial strategy. A good place to start is to sit down with a financial advisor to discuss how you can prioritize school along with your other financial goals.

Bennett Whitlock, CRPC ®, is a private wealth advisor and managing director with Whitlock Wealth Management, a franchise of Ameriprise Financial Services Inc. Learn more at WhitlockWealth.com or call 703-492-7732.

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

Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2018 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. (08/18)

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calendar Mardi Gras Party

Sat. Mar. 2 | 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Effingham Manor Winery 14325 Trotters Ridge Place, Nokesville Wine dinner and party; Celebrate Fat Tuesday Effingham style. Enjoy food from Elegance to Simplicity, paired with Effingham Manor wines. Food stations include Shrimp Gumbo, Jambalaya, Maque Choux Soup, Creole Ham Sliders, Muffuletta, Red Beans & Rice, New Orleans King Cake and Bourbon Bread Pudding. Beads, Music, Color, and all fun provided! $99/PP Includes Food Wine and Fun! 703-594-2300.

march

Manassas Symphony Orchestra: Tesoros hispanos

Sat. Mar. 2 | 7:30 p. m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas The Manassas Symphony Orchestra honors the music and culture of Spanish-speaking countries with music by composers from Spain and Latin America, featuring classical guitarist Adam Kossler performing Joaquín Rodrigo’s famed Concierto De Aranjuez.

Tickets: hyltoncenter.org

Prince William Living Presents Breakfast with an Expert Thurs. Mar. 7 | 8 a.m.

NOW ONLINE! Join us from the comfort of your own computer!

Join us and “BYOB” for an online presentation of information from an expert who will give you actionable advice you can put to work immediately in your business. RSVP princewilliamliving.com/ breakfastwithanexpert.

“A Fantasque Evening” (Ballet)

Fri. Mar. 8 | 7:30 p.m.

Sat. Mar. 9 | 7:30 p.m.

Sun. Mar. 10 | 3 p.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas

Manassas Ballet Theatre (MBT) starts 2019 with “A Fantasque Evening.”

The original choreography in Act I is always a highlight of our season. Act II is La Boutique Fantasque (The Magic Toyshop), the story of a world-famous French toymaker who welcomes customers from around the globe to his enchanted shop of dancing dolls, who have a love story of their own. The Manassas Ballet Theatre Orchestra accompanies the program. Tickets: hyltoncenter.org.

“Anne of Green Gables”

Fri. Mar. 8, 15 | 8 p.m.

Sat. Mar. 9, 16 | 8 p.m.

Sun. Mar. 10, 17 | 2 p.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas Prince William Little Theatre presents “Anne of Green Gables,” a charming play by L.M. Montgomery and Sylvia Ashby. Anne of Green Gables is produced by arrangement with Samuel French. A refreshing, contemporary telling of the classic story. This play has been charming audiences around the world. Tickets: hyltoncenter.org.

Troop 964 21st Annual Train Show

Sat. Mar. 9 | 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Sun. Mar. 10 | 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Saunders Middle School 13557 Spriggs Road, Manassas Model railroad enthusiasts, Scouts, and families alike. Huge showing of model trains of all gauges, filling up nearly the entire main floor of Saunders Middle School. Complete LEGO train sets, as well. Railroading Merit Badges offered.

Greater Manassas St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Sat. Mar. 9 | 11 a.m.

Historic Downtown Manassas The annual Greater Manassas Saint Patrick’s Day Parade can be viewed along Center Street in Historic Manassas. In addition to a host of schools, nonprofits and businesses that support this annual event, the parade boasts unique Irish flair with several pipe bands including the Alexandria Pipe and Drums, Irish dance groups, and members of the Ancient Order of Hibernians.

Summer Camp Fair

Sat. Mar. 9 | 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Manassas Mall 8300 Sudley Road, Manassas Manassas Mall Camp Fair is one stop shopping for all your kids’ summer camps & activities. Camp representatives will be on hand to answer all your questions. Free family fun & entertainment! * A KOJAM Production Camp Fair.

Sunday Ballroom Dance at the Candy Factory

Sun. Mar. 10 | 3:30 – 6 p.m.

Center for the Arts 9419 Battle Street, Manassas Join us for a Sunday Ballroom Dance at the Center for the Arts. Arrive at 3:30 p.m. for a lesson in Cha-Cha, followed by an open dance session from 4 - 6 p.m.

Cost is $15 per person for lesson and dance session, $10 for dance session only.

Pay at the door.

Kids Club 2019

Wed. Mar. 13 | 10 a.m.

Manassas Mall 8300 Sudley Road, Manassas Great Zucchini will be performing at 10 a.m. in the Home Court. Kids Club is the second Wednesday of the month January through October.

PWC Networking Group

Wed. Mar. 13 | 7 – 8 p.m.

Wegman’s Lake Manassas 8297 Stonewall Shops Square, Gainesville A local networking group featuring both small business and direct sales. Most members are in the Manassas/Gainesville/ Bristow area. Only one representative per company accepted.

St. Patrick’s Day Party

Sat. Mar. 16 | 4 – 10 p.m.

Tucked Away Brewing Company 8420 Kao Circle, Manassas Come be Irish for a day at Tucked Away.

Our St. Patrick’s Day party will have something for everyone. A Specialty Cask, Best St. Patrick’s Day attire contest, Irish dancers from the Boyle School of Irish Dance performing at 5:30 p.m., Food Truck and Beer.

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

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Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra Concert

Sat. Mar. 16 | 7:30 p.m.

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church 1400 G Street, Woodbridge The Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra (OBCO) concert will feature music by Johannes Brahms, Max Bruch, and Jean Sibelius. Tickets are free; donations accepted. Further information may be found at facebook.com/obcomusic and at obco.org.

Prince William Living’s Lunch with the Publisher

Wed. Mar. 20 | 11:30 a.m.

Prince William Chamber of Commerce 9720 Capital Ct., #203, Manassas Are you an advertiser with Prince William Living or interested in becoming one?

Meet the people behind greater Prince William’s premier 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. Lunch provided

by Okra’s. RSVP at princewilliamliving. com/lunchwiththepublisher.

Brews and Brains Lecture Series

Thurs. Mar. 21 | 6 – 8 p.m.

Tucked Away Brewing Company 8420 Kao Circle, Manassas Northern Virginia has a rich history from the 18th century to today. Grab a pint and join the Prince William County Historic Preservation Division and Tucked Away Brewing Company as we examine the gruesome, scandalous, and exciting littleknown history of the area. Learn stories of the Civil War on Mar. 21.

Hylton’s 9th Anniversary Gala Fri. Mar. 22 | 6:30 – 11:30 p.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas Join us at the Hylton Center as we celebrate our 9th anniversary in style with an elegant reception, dinner on the Merchant Hall Stage, tribute to honorees Buchanan Partners and Nancy Hersch Ingram, a live auction, and the popular “Party For a Cause,”featuring

dancing, craft cocktails, and a silent art auction. Funds from the Gala support the programs and performances at the Hylton Center, including the Veterans and the Arts Initiative, educational programming, and Endowment.

Tickets: hyltoncenter.org.

Shoreline Cleanup

Sat. Mar. 23 | 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Leesylvania State Park 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Drive, Woodbridge Want to make a difference in your community? Join a park ranger on monthly shoreline cleanups to pick up trash and driftwood. Please let someone at the contact station know that you are coming to volunteer to waive the fee. For questions and to register, please call the Visitor Center at 703-583-6904.

Manassas Chorale: Silver Voices

Sat. Mar. 23 | 7:30 p.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas The Manassas Chorale and the Voices United Workshop Choir combine resources for a joyful evening of sacred music. Led by Artistic Director Becky Verner and guest Clinician Dr. Rollo Dilworth, over 150 singers will raise the roof in this celebratory program. Come marvel at the united effort of over thirty choral organizations joining together.

Tickets: hyltoncenter.org.

Junior Rangers

Sat. Mar. 30 | 7:30 – 9 p.m.

Leesylvania State Park 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Drive, Woodbridge Join the fun, with a ranger, for an outdoor learning experience once a month. Children will get the chance to learn topics related to social science and environmental science pertaining to the park. For questions or to register, please call the Visitor Center at 703-583-6904 or email maritza.rivas@dcr.virginia.gov.

Ages 7-9. Fee is $2 per child and $3 per Junior Ranger booklet.

Distiller for a Day at MurLarkey

Sun. Mar. 31 | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

MurLarkey Distilled Spirits 7961 Gainsford Court, Suite 100, Bristow Join the team at MurLarkey Distilled Spirits behind the scenes to learn how they produce their award-winning selection of spirits. Aspiring distillers will work alongside MurLarkey distillers to run mash through a still, char and fill aging barrels, and proof down spirits in tanks (and of course, taste the spirit all along the way). Spots to participate in the guided Distiller for a Day are $199 per person and can be reserved by emailing jlarkin@murlarkey.com.

15th Annual Ballet Ball

Sat. Mar. 30 | 6:30 – 10 p.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas Manassas Ballet Theatre is thrilled to present this year’s Sleeping Beautythemed Ballet Ball. The Ball is complete with open bar, dinner, and dancing, and a silent auction and 50/50 raffle. The Ballet Ball will be held in the Gregory Theater at the Hylton Performing Arts Center. The Jason Paul Curtis Band will play live throughout the evening.

Dress up, dine, dance, and support the dancers of Manassas Ballet Theatre.

For information and tickets, please call 703-257-1811 or email info@manassasballet.org.

prince william living March 2019

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We hope you enjoy Prince William Living as much as we love to deliver the news and insight that enhance how you live, work and play in Prince William.

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prince william living March 2019

Prince William Parks and Recreation

Prince William Public Library System

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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.

TM