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AUTHOR ILKACHAVEZ
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FARMERS MARKET
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prince william living April 2018
The premiere lifestyle magazine of Prince William and Greater Manassas
Homegrown Pros PAGE 4
The Utopian Shopping Experience PAGE 14
How IMPACTO Youth Supports Local Children PAGE 18
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SENTARN H [ A L T H t A R E
table of contents April 2018 | Vol. 8 | No. 4
FEATURE STORY Homegrown Pros: The Athletes That Prince William Helped to Create
4
DEPARTMENTS FROM THE EDITOR IN CHIEF
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21
ON A HIGH NOTE Ilka Chavez: Building Leaders, One Book at a Time
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DESTINATIONS The Utopian Shopping Experience
14
GIVING BACK How IMPACTO Youth Supports Local Children
18
LIFELONG LEARNING The House Student Leadership Center—Working Together for Today’s Youth
21
TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS Woodbridge Entrepreneur Brings a Taste of Uganda to Prince William County
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FAMILY FUN Teaching the Next Generation about the Farmers Market
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LOCAL FLAVOR Maaza 29: City Dining in the Suburbs CALENDAR
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30
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30 34
COLUMNS THE FASHION FOLDER HEALTH & WELLNESS HOME & HEARTH YOUR FINANCES
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prince william living Rebecca Barnes
Kim Howard, CAE
PRINCE WILLIAM LIVING PUBLISHER rbarnes@princewilliamliving.com
EDITOR IN CHIEF khoward@princewilliamliving.com
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Amanda Causey Baity
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Amanda Causey Baity, David Funk, Liam Griffin, Kim Howard, CAE, Helena Tavares Kennedy, Olivia Overman, Roxy Rowton, Ashley Claire Simpson, Marianne Weaver, Bennett Whitlock
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Vanessa Vega Braun, vbraun@princewilliamliving.com ONLINE SUBMISSION MANAGER Carole Keily
COPY EDITORS Apryl Motley, CAE and Peter Lineberry
GIVE BACK PRINCE WILLIAM INITIATIVE Caitlin Stephens, caitlin@givebackpw.org Leticia Moreno, leticia@givebackpw.org CLIENT CARE SPECIALIST Diane Puigdomenech, dpuigdomenech@ princewilliamliving.com
PHOTO EDITOR Amanda Causey Baity PHOTOGRAPHERS Amanda Causey Baity and Mark Gilvey 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 2018 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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April 2018 prince william living
from the Editor in Chief Growing Professional Athletes at Home
“T
he American Heritage College Dictionary, Third Edition” defines the word athlete as “a person possessing the natural or acquired traits necessary for physical exercise or sports, especially those performed in competitive contexts.” In our community, there is no shortage of leagues for almost all athletes at every age. Our schools offer a wide variety of fall, winter and spring sports for both male and female athletes. Local pools are filled every Saturday morning at o’dark thirty for eight weeks during summer swim season. You haven’t lived until you are eating a cheeseburger at 9 a.m. on a Saturday because you’ve been at the pool since 4:30 a.m. helping with setup for these athletes. Children who are interested and parents who are willing will find league sports available yearround for the child who wishes to hone his or her athletic skill to play at the next level. Did you know that Prince William was the first home to many professional athletes? In our cover story, “Homegrown Pros: The Athletes That Prince William Helped to Create,” Liam Griffin and I profile a few pros who once called this area home. Read more about these world-class and Olympic athletes on page 4. Ah, the bargain hunter or huntress. You know who you are: the one who gets excited about a $10 two-piece suit from Jones New York or a bag full of tee-shirts for $5. If this is your idea of
fun, our Destinations piece this month is for you. “The Utopian Shopping Experience” by Ashley Claire Simpson highlights local thrift stores. Whether you search for a bicycle, kitchen supplies, furniture or clothes, the story on page 14 is one that you won’t want to miss. This issue’s Lifelong Learning by Helena Tavares Kennedy profiles an organization working with the youth in our county. “The House Student Leadership Center—Working Together for Today’s Youth” is about a 12-year-old collaborative effort described as “a student’s personal ultimate trainer.” If you have school-age children, this story is for you. Find out more on page 21. The Washington, D.C. area is home to six professional sports teams: hockey, football, tennis, soccer, baseball and basketball. Some of Prince William County’s children have the potential to play a professional sport one day. Watch them now. Take in a local junior high or high school game, swim meet or track meet. You will be surprised at the local, fresh talent we have living in our backyard. And, your financial and team support at these events matters, too. Kim Howard, CAE Editor in Chief
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Homegrown Pros:
The Athletes That Prince William Helped to Create By Liam Griffin and Kim Howard, CAE
P
Photo provided by Wikimedia Commons
rince William is located in a sports utopia. Six professional teams call the Washington, D.C. metro area home. If you can’t find a sport in this area, it may not exist. Northern Virginia is dominated by competition: year-round athletes, academic wizards, musical prodigies. Prince William County and the cities located within it are where many Olympians and professional athletes grew up. These are the kids next door who went on to national or global fame. These athletes did not come from places of extreme privilege, and they don’t have an athletic pedigree. Instead, these athletes found success through something that is hard to describe, hard to learn, and impossible to teach. Some of their talent was innate, some of it was developed, but they all had the grit to succeed.
Soccer’s Superstar Ali Krieger Forest Park alumna Ali Krieger is one of the best women’s soccer players in the world. She’s an Olympian and World Cup champion. For Krieger, big stages are nothing new. As a high school soccer player, she accumulated incredible accolades. After achieving All-Virginia honors multiple times, her high school career ended after receiving Player of the Year awards from Gatorade and the Washington Post. After high school, Krieger’s stock continued to soar. She continued her athletic and academic endeavors at Penn State University, where she quickly established herself as a professional prospect and valued member of the team. After college, Krieger
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Olympian and professional soccer player Ali Krieger gradudated from Forest Park High School.
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Photo provided by Icon Sportswire
would join the professional ranks of the German FrauenBundesliga before also representing her country as a member of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team. In addition to her time in the Women’s Bundesliga, Krieger has also spent time among the highest soccer divisions in Sweden and the United States. As a longtime member of the U.S. National Team, Krieger has played on the largest stage that the sport has to offer. She played in two Women’s World Cups, including the United States’ World Cup Championship in 2015, which she cites as one of her proudest accomplishments. The next year, Krieger joined the greatest athletes in the world at the 2016 Rio Olympics. While the U.S. Women’s team was eliminated from the Olympic tournament quickly, the experience of being an Olympian is a remarkable achievement.
Even as she travels and competes around the world, Prince William stays near to Krieger’s heart. As a product of Prince William County Public Schools, and the daughter of educators, Krieger had some sage advice for young local athletes who are looking to follow in her footsteps. “In the term student-athlete, the word ‘student’ comes before the word ‘athlete’, so make sure you’re focusing on school,” Krieger said. “Education is so important.” After participating in two World Cups, the 2016 Olympic games, three NCAA tournaments, and 10 years of playing professional soccer, it would be easy for a player of her caliber to forget about her hometown, instead spending her days trotting around the globe. But this year, a sports complex in the southeastern portion of the county will finish being built and the county government will dedicate it to Krieger. Krieger plans on hosting training workshops and clinics for youth soccer players in the area.
Manassas Son Lucky Whitehead Fulfills a Football Dream Lucky Whitehead, though not an Olympian, is an extremely accomplished athlete who has overcome difficulties in his quest to play in the National Football League (NFL). A product of the Manassas area, Whitehead is a model of resilience, and proof that with hard work, anything is possible. “Growing up in Manassas was fun for me because I was always involved in sports, and I stayed active, whether this was in a uniform or just being outside with my friends,” he said. “I was
Photo provided by Lucky Whitehead
Despite all these achievements, the soccer star is as humble as they come, and never runs out of complimentary statements about her teammates, coaches and opponents. When asked about her time growing up in Prince William, she credited her success as an athlete to those she played with and against. “Growing up with such great players around me, some of whom were better than I was…that helped me succeed and get better,” she said.
Professional National Football League player Lucky Whitehead is an alumnus of Osbourn High School in the City of Manassas.
always trying to stay busy. But it was still hard with a single parent, Karen Morris, who did everything to keep a roof over our heads. Her strength and His (the Lord) are why I am the man I am today. I made a lot of lifelong friends growing up in Manassas, and I still have those friends. Also, my family was always around and supportive of me, which is important.” His quest for NFL glory began at Osbourn High School (OHS), where Whitehead established himself as a force to be reckoned with on both sides of the football. Playing at both cornerback and wide receiver, his speed and dynamic play-making ability earned him All-Conference honors in his final year. Whitehead took his talents to Dean College, a Division III school in Massachusetts. “In high school I realized that I could possibly make it in professional sports because I was a very good athlete. I played a lot of sports in high school and learned a lot of skills that have (continues on page 6) prince william living April 2018
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shaped me into a better athlete. I knew that I had to give it my all throughout high school in order to get to the next level and that’s what I did,” he said. After finding success at Dean College, Whitehead transferred to Florida Atlantic University, a Division I school that would allow him a better chance to play at the NFL level. In his final year of collegiate eligibility, Whitehead’s speed, elusiveness, and versatility caught the eye of NFL scouts. He established himself as a reliable kick and punt returner, a solid deep-threat as a wide receiver, and a change of pace when placed in the backfield. The Dallas Cowboys signed him as a free agent not long after the draft. The Cowboys were looking to bring him on as a return specialist, and he earned a spot on the team. By the end of his rookie season, Whitehead was the starting punt and kickoff returner for one of the NFL’s most popular franchises. In July 2017, after two seasons playing for the Cowboys, Whitehead moved on to the New York Jets.
While his sport isn’t a particularly common sight, Ben Hatchell, a Manassas native, has achieved success in his athletic pursuits. Hatchell is a skateboarder who has competed professionally in dozens of competitions, including multiple X Games. Hatchell has competed internationally on a variety of occasions, including eight X Games competitions. In those eight events, he has reached the podium five times, including a gold medal in 2007. As he travels the world to compete, Hatchell keeps his hometown close to his heart. Even as he travelled to China this fall, he lists Manassas as his favorite place to travel to. Initially, the skateboarder couldn’t have fathomed what the sport would do for him. Hatchell started skateboarding as a child, he said, “because the neighborhood kids were doing it.” What started as a simple hobby has allowed him to travel the world and compete with the best in his sport. Hatchell is travelling the world as a proud product of Manassas. Photo courtesy Indie Agency Inc.
“I’d hope that my hometown remembers me as someone who followed his dreams and never gave up. In a small town it’s easy to get stuck and hang with the wrong people. I am glad that I was always pushing forward and trying my best to not get comfortable. I think that people will remember me for my success and the vision I’ve provided for the youth of my town and also for my outgoing personality,” Whitehead said.
Skateboarder Ben Hatchell Grinds to X Games Success
Whitehead hosts and attends a youth football camp every summer at OHS. Despite his status as a pro athlete, he is still active in the Manassas community and fondly recalls those mentors who believed in him and pushed him to succeed. “Coach Mike Johnson was my favorite coach/mentor/guardian. He never let me settle and was always pushing me because he sees my full potential even when I might not see it myself. He still stays on my back to make sure I am making good choices and staying out of trouble. He is always going to do that to make sure my mind is in the right place. I can’t forget Athletic Director Ira DeGrood either. I can count on him sending text after text checking on me, but he always saw the best in me growing up at OHS. And finally, former Assistant Principal and OHS Basketball Coach Mike Dufrene who also encouraged me to get involved in peer mentoring,” he said. Whitehead tells aspiring athletes to never let anyone bring you down: “Follow your dreams and never give up. I’ve had a lot of people try to bring me down and tell me that I’m not good enough, I’ll never make it, I’m too small…whatever the case may be, but I didn’t let that bring me down. If you want something, go get it, and don’t let anyone take that away from you. Also work hard, all the time. Stay out of trouble and focus on your goals if you want to succeed.”
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Manassas native and professional skateboarder Ben Hatchell has competed in eight X Games.
Photo provided by Benita Fitzgerald Mosley
Two-time Olympian and gold medalist Benita Fitzgerald Mosely.
Track Star Benita Fitzgerald Mosley Brings Home the Olympic Gold Benita Fitzgerald Mosley is a pillar of the area, and undoubtedly one of the area’s most famous daughters. After her mother Fannie Fitzgerald made a name for herself as a teacher by helping to desegregate Prince William County Schools, Fitzgerald Mosley made her mark on the world as an Olympic athlete. But before the global fame, she was just your average cul-de-sac kid. “What I remember most about growing up in Dale City was the idyllic nature of the community. Everything was new at that time. Most of the families were young parents with children my age. We spent a lot of time outside playing and doing what kids used to do—running in the woods, walking by the creek and riding our bikes. My community was completely integrated, and it didn’t dawn on us in the late ’60s that this wasn’t the norm,” said Fitzgerald Mosley. As a middle schooler, she struggled as a gymnast. Her junior high school coach, Gwen Washington, suggested she try the track team because she was so fast in P.E. class. After winning her first
race, Fitzgerald Mosley never looked back. Many athletes credit success in their sport with helping them find success in their personal and professional lives, and Fitzgerald Mosely is a shining example of the positive impact that sports can have on young people. She currently serves as the chief executive officer of Laureus USA. “I call my gold medal the gift that keeps on giving, so I hope I’m remembered as someone who worked hard to give that same gift to youth, women, people of color, etc., to help them fulfill gold medals in their own lives,” she said. Fitzgerald Mosely attended Gar-Field High School, where she quickly stamped her name across several record books. As a sophomore, she raced past her older competition to claim her first state title in the 110-yard hurdle event. She would add two more championships in the event, in addition to several other records before graduating. Upon graduation from high school, Fitzgerald Mosely earned a full athletic scholarship to attend the University of Tennessee. At Tennessee, she was named an All-American a stunning 15 times and won four NCAA Championships. Athletic success would continue to accompany her as she competed collegiately, but her academic success is not to be forgotten. On the track, she sped past the competition time and time again. In the classroom, she put her nose to the grindstone and earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering. But it was her freshman high school coach, Ann Lockett, who planted the Olympian dream in Fitzgerald’s mind. “My freshman year, Ann Lockett was the head track coach at Gar-Field. She coached three AAA state championships for girls’ track, one or two for girls’ basketball and one in gymnastics. One of my track teammates, Paula Girven, was coached by Ms. Lockett as well, and she went on to compete in the high jump at the 1976 Olympics in Montreal. During the Montreal Games, Coach Lockett told me, “You can be on the 1980 Olympic team!” She planted the seed of possibility in my mind. She soon left Gar-Field to become assistant principal at Potomac and has since retired, and Ruthie Brown became our coach after Ann moved on. Ruthie put her heart and soul into coaching us and did whatever she could to nurture my talent. My dad, Rodger Fitzgerald, was a guidance counselor at my school at the time and instilled in me the power of positive thinking. Four years after, I was on the 1980 Olympic Team, which unfortunately boycotted the Moscow Games, and then four years later, I won a gold medal in the 100m hurdles at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. My parents didn’t hesitate and always supported my dreams; they were very open to the possibilities,” she said. Positive coaching does matter, indeed.
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* * * * * • (continued * • "from page 7) • , H T L * • A E H o Fitzgerald Mosely’s advice to young athletes is sage. “Run your t n " i g n i Spr *at and passionate about; own race: find out what you are good WISDOM •
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work hard to create opportunities and chart your own path. Consider others’ advice, but follow your heart to find where you will provide the most value,” she said.
Successful Athletes Remain Humble These alumni of Prince William are world-class athletes. They reached the peak of their sports and were recognized on a global stage. Despite the success and recognition, they never lost their humility, and they kept Prince William in mind. The people of Prince William are proud of these athletes and have honored them in a variety of ways. Children involved in sports often dream of reaching the highest level of their sport, and with hard work and determination, anything is possible. As long as young people are encouraged to follow their dreams by coaches and family, residents of Prince William will see athletes from the area continue to succeed into the future. Liam Griffin is a freelance sports writer. Kim Howard, CAE (khoward@princewilliamliving.com) is the editor in chief of Prince William Living. She loves to watch the Olympics; learned all about football under the Friday night lights watching her mutli-state-championship Enterprise Wildcats High School football team and treasures her time spent watching her high school senior play basketball. More details about her and her publishing and communications consulting business can be found at writecommunicationsllc.com.
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1. Paula Girven (Gar-Field, 1976), High Jump, 1976 Olympic and 1980 teams (U.S.A. boycotted the Moscow Olympics in 1980) 2. Kim Graham (Stonewall Jackson, 1989), 400 meters, 1,600meter relay team, won an Olympic gold medal in 1996
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on a high note
Ilka Chavez
Building Leaders, One Book at a Time By Helena Tavares Kennedy
“I
Photo provided by Ilka Chavez
lka V. Chavez is a lover of people and life” is the first thing you might read on Ilka Chavez’s website. Some may know her most as an active supporter of education and for her service on the Manassas City School Board from 2012 to 2015, but her new book, “What Leaders Say and Do: How to Inspire Your Tribe,” is quickly changing that. She held a book launch in Manassas in October 2017 as well as events all around the U.S. and overseas, including in Panama, where she is originally from. Her book, written in English, has been translated into Spanish to reach a larger audience. Chavez is dedicated to mentoring and guiding individuals and organizations to identify and activate the leaders within themselves. Her goal is to awaken the masses from being “walking dead people,” Chavez said. Her slogan is “Learn It, Live It, Lead It!” Chavez is a fervent leader with a track record for helping leaders, communities and organizations reach their highest potential. She is a certified emotional mastery coach, and a leadership consultant through her company, Corporate GOLD (Global Organizational Leadership Development) LLC. She is also an internationally sought-after public speaker with expert training in quality improvement. Her experience has led her to where she is now, with more than 30 years of involvement in various leadership roles that helped her to hone her leadership, management and organizational transformation skills and unique ability to work with others to
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Ilka Chavez
improve work quantity, quality and performance. Now she is sharing that knowledge, insight and experience with everyone through her new book, “What Leaders Say and Do.”
Books That Change People’s Lives Chavez started her writing path in 2016 as a co-author of “Success University for Women in Business” where she, and 16 other successful businesswomen from all over the world, share their tips for facing your fears and achieving your goals. Chavez then co-authored a second book, “Feminine Influencers: Healers, Leaders, Givers,” in 2017, which features conversations
with amazing women that are the front-runners of the “Feminine Influencers Movement.” “What Leaders Say and Do” is her most recent and first sole author book and focuses on how to lead organizations, homes, family, communities and businesses. The book offers inspirational leadership models focusing on the human traits needed in any environment by anyone who desires to become a leader. What led Chavez to write her first sole author book was the realization that “there was a cry from so many for great leadership and the yearning to share my experience to help my tribe.” “I hoped that many would awaken to the importance of their individual leadership and how leading themselves first would inspire their tribes,” Chavez said. “I wanted to bring light, excellence and conscience back to leadership.” Dr. Melida Harris Barrow, Universal Peace Ambassador for Panama, said, “This book is going to be my [leadership blueprint]. I thank the author for putting together such a well written book promoting growth and excellence in leadership.” Perhaps most telling about Chavez is what her neighbor of 17 years had to say about her. Linda Garner of Manassas said, “Ilka Chavez is one of the most authentic people we know. She is spiritual, loving, kind, and understanding, and has a message to share with everyone. Ilka is full of knowledge, information and
ideas she shares with others to help them become the best people they can be. Ilka sets an excellent example of living what she believes in. We are honored to be a part of her tribe.” Sandy Rabatin of Manassas has been a friend of Chavez for 17 years and said, “Ilka Chavez is a woman of conviction and strength, and she wants to share her experiences with everyone. She truly cares about her family, friends and community, and she is never too busy to stop to say ‘hi’ or just check in.” “Ilka is a woman who exudes excellence in every fiber of her being,” added Lorri Dyson of Manassas and Chavez’s friend of more than 22 years. “She is an outstanding author and an excellent role model to everyone in her community, her church, her family and friends. She gives 100 percent to anything she is asked or required to do. She is always confident and has a positive demeanor that draws people to her.” To learn more about Ilka Chavez and her latest books, visit ilkavchavez.com. Helena Tavares Kennedy (hkennedy@princewilliamliving.com), a longtime Prince William County resident, is a freelance writer and communications consultant at htkmarketingservices.com and livinggreendaybyday.com.
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the fashion folder Fresh from the Wash By Roxy Rowton
B
efore storing away cold-weather garments to make way for fashioning a new seasonal wardrobe, it is a good practice to clean wool and/or cashmere clothing. Contrary to the care labels in many woolen garments, these can be laundered by hand or in the washing machine. Hand washing is the gentlest method of all to clean wool and cashmere clothing. It also provides an extra bonus of the effectual removal of troublesome odors. Laundering Fine Woolen Clothing Hand-washing Woolens are especially sensitive to water temperature and agitation. Begin by filling a washbasin with cold water and add a few squirts of laundry shampoo formulated for wool and/ or cashmere. Submerge the wool or cashmere garment and gently swish the garment to distribute the suds evenly. Soak garment for 20 to 30 minutes. Next, run cool to tepid water to rinse the garment. Repeat this step until the water is no longer soapy and runs clear. Gently press the garment to remove excess water. It is important to not wring or twist the garment, but gently squeeze the water out. Then, place a fresh, preferably white, towel on a flat surface or drying rack and transfer the just-laundered garment onto the towel. Gently pat the garment into shape. Roll up the garment and the towel together, pressing to remove further water. Repeat with a second towel, if necessary. Do not place the item in the dryer or hang it. Allow the garment to air dry by placing another towel on a drying rack or flat surface. When drying, avoid placing the garment in direct sunlight or near other heat sources. Direct sunlight or heat can yellow, shrink and damage the yarns. After the garment has air dried, steam to remove any wrinkles as ironing can crush or flatten the natural pile of the yarns. Machine-washing First, turn the wool or cashmere garment inside out and place it inside a mesh laundry bag. The use of a mesh bag during machine washing reduces agitation, prevents snagging and keeps garments from tangling together. Prepare the machine wash by selecting the wool or delicate cycle on the machine, the water temperature to cold, and the spin cycle to low or ultra-low. Add the appropriate amount of laundry shampoo for the load size. When the washing cycle is finished, promptly remove the garment to reduce wrinkles and creases. Proceed to air dry the garment following the steps outlined in the hand-washing instructions. After drying, steam to remove any wrinkles or creases.
from wool and cashmere clothing. Use a sweater comb to remove any pilling. To keep pests, like moths, from chowing down on a favorite woolen garment, place a cedar or lavender sheet in the folded garment and store in a linen or cotton bag (not a plastic bin!). Laundering by hand or the washing machine of woolen clothing does require extra effort and attention. But it pays rich dividends by protecting the yarn quality, retaining the garment’s shape and preserving the life span of woolen garments. 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 very best. She has two-plus decades in the fashion, apparel and beauty industries.
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Storing Woolen Clothing Woolen clothing should be stored folded to prevent stretching the garment’s shape. Before storing, remove unwanted pills
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Signal Bay Waterpark Pre-Season Pass Sale Family of 4 is only $134! (Price increases to $200 after 4/15/18) Purchase online: bit.ly/signalbay Managed by the City of Manassas Park, Department of Parks and Recreation, Signal Bay Waterpark is a 27,000 sqft aquatic facility within Signal Hill Park featuring a zero depth entry leisure pool with water cannons, slides, and a lazy river. Manassas Park Community Center 99 Adams Street Manassas Park, VA 20111 703.335.8872 ManassasParkCommunityCenter.com
We're taking over the main drag of Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center for the second annual Woodbridge Beer Fest and filling it with craft beer, food, some wine, root beer (for the kids), and a ton of fun for adults and kids alike. Get the best price by purchasing tickets in advance. www.WoodbridgeBeer.com A CELEBRATION OF LOCAL BEER
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Saturday May 26th, 2018
VISIT BREW REPUBLIC IN STONEBRIDGE AT POTOMAC TOWN CENTER 15201 POTOMAC TOWN PLACE WOODBRIDGE, VA 22191
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destinations
The Utopian Shopping Experience By Ashley Claire Simpson | Photos by Amanda Causey Baity
G
ood news for people who love shopping: Spending doesn’t have to be a guilty pleasure. Shopping, to the contrary, can actually be a utopian experience.
For instance, think about the purchases you make at some of your favorite thrift stores. As you benefit from the secondhand price tags, you simultaneously take part in a cause that benefits the greater good. There are several organizations in Prince William County that establish proprietary thrift stores to fulfill incredible humanitarian missions.
Shopping for Humanity Thrift stores have been the backbone of vital philanthropic organizations for years. From Goodwill to Habitat for Humanity, some of the biggest names in the nonprofit community incorporate retail into their “business” models. Founded in 1976, Habitat for Humanity—for short, Habitat— unites volunteers to build affordable housing in communities all over the world. It is now the world’s largest not-for-profit homebuilder, with affiliates in roughly 1,400 communities in the United States. Habitat also has presence in 70 different countries. The organization has helped millions of people settle into safe and stable housing. And Habitat doesn’t stop there, either. “Those who benefit from our work receive financial and home ownership education through our programs,” said Traci DeGroat, president and CEO of Prince William County’s affiliate of Habitat for Humanity. “We make it affordable, but they buy their homes, help with repairs and construction when possible, and pay a portion of the cost of the repairs. Habitat provides a ‘hand up’ so that people can build strength and stability in their lives. Our programs, which are applicationbased, teach self-reliance.”
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To facilitate explosive growth, Habitat established ReStore, a brand of thrift stores designed to fund operational costs. There are now collectively around 900 ReStores worldwide. DeGroat, however, remembers when excitement about the ReStore concept was just starting to grow. “In 2002, when I first started working for Habitat, I went to a mid-Atlantic regional conference of Habitat for Humanity affiliates,” DeGroat said, “There were people there from North Carolina, who were spreading the word about their ReStores. There had been a few stores scattered around the United States, but the affiliates around the Research Triangle in North Carolina were really investing in them and finding success. Their excitement was contagious.” In 2004, the stars aligned for Prince William County’s Habitat to set up its own ReStore location in Manassas. And the local founding team quickly learned that people in the community really enjoyed the kind of shopping that benefits others. “It got to the point that we had to put sea containers in the parking lot, and sometimes we just covered things with tarps when they weren’t for sale,” DeGroat recalled. “We had to mark anything we were using with ‘do not sell,’ so that people wouldn’t try to buy it out from under us.” In October 2017, Habitat launched a second ReStore in Woodbridge. DeGroat said that without these two thrift stores, Habitat simply would not be what it is today for this part of Virginia. “Both ReStores provide diversified and significant funding for [our local] operations,” said DeGroat, who has been with Habitat for 16 years. “Habitat for Humanity Prince William County completes an average of 18 projects per year. While some projects cost little, others have significant costs, such as those projects
The House of Mercy’s thrift store is integral to keeping the organization’s food pantry and clothing center in operation. “The thrift store is a major program in itself,” said Von Barron, thrift store and donation center manager and volunteer coordinator said. “Through the thrift store, we’re able to fund the many supporting programs that House of Mercy offers: free food and clothing to our clients, free educational classes, clothing drives, and so much more. We’re able to assist people in Manassas, Bristow, Nokesville and Woodbridge, but we have no boundaries as an organization.”
Taking Care of Business It would be an easy—but false—assumption that philanthropy belongs entirely to the nonprofit world. Savers® is a for-profit international chain of thrift stores dedicated to improving the environment. Through its Rethink Reuse® program, the more than 300 Savers stores across the globe—including one in Woodbridge—have collectively prevented hundreds of millions of pounds of reusable materials from going to landfills. associated with purchasing and rehabbing homes through our home ownership program.” Much like the volunteers swinging hammers and revving up power saws at the construction sites, many people running the show at ReStores are donating their time to do so. There is no shortage of opportunities for people who want to donate their time to Habitat. “Our Habitat employs 21 people for its construction and ReStore programs,” DeGroat said. “Roughly 1,000 volunteers work with us each year at construction sites and at the two ReStores, contributing about 15,000 hours of time. We’re a construction company, a lender, and a social services provider. Now we’re a retailer, too.”
Rooted in Faith It’s no surprise that some thrift stores are established under the aegis of religions that emphasize service and sacrifice. One Manassas thrift store, for example, is run by House of Mercy, a Catholic nonprofit that works to lessen the burdens of locals struggling with overwhelming poverty. What started in 2005 as a small prayer group is now a growing humanitarian aid organization run by volunteers determined to end hunger in Prince William County. “The food pantry and the clothing center function as our main ministry, offering free food and clothing to our clients,” said Felice Hilton, assistant director of House of Mercy. “We also offer clothing at reduced prices to the public. House of Mercy is dedicated to serving the poor, marginalized and forgotten by sharing the message of God’s mercy to others. We offer a variety of programs free of charge to the community. We are nondenominational in our service, so all are welcome.”
“Savers’ company purpose is to ‘improve lives through the power of reuse,’” said Mandy Heritage, area development manager for Savers. “We encourage residents in our communities to donate reusable items to nonprofits at the community donation centers located at Savers stores. Savers stores purchase every item donated to the nonprofit. Items are sorted, and the highest quality items are value-priced to sell. Unsold items are recycled or sold to developing countries. We call it ‘the Savers cycle.’” Savers provides reliable income to more than 90 nonprofit organizations across North America. Through its partnership program, the Woodbridge Savers allows people to donate goods to Special Olympics of Virginia. In turn, Savers purchases those goods, providing revenue to the Special Olympics of Virginia to support its charitable mission. The benefactors of Savers initiatives aren’t limited to its store partners, though. “We also offer great fundraising opportunities for local organizations—schools, sports teams and houses of worship—to earn money by collecting reusable items, which Savers stores then purchase directly. This is our FUNDrive program. It’s a great, green alternative to other traditional fundraising like having bake sales, hosting car washes, or selling wrapping paper.” So, while popular brands skyrocket to success and then ultimately fade into oblivion, thrift stores seem to have a way of sticking around. There is so much more than meets the eye to places like ReStore, House of Mercy, and Savers, and what goes on behind the scenes does a world of good—both at home and on a much larger scale. Ashley Claire Simpson (asimpson@princewilliamliving.com) is a corporate communications professional by day, but her real passion is learning more about this community and the world by writing. She has been crafting features and human interest articles since her college newspaper days at the University of Virginia. prince william living April 2018
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giving back How IMPACTO Youth Supports Local Children By Olivia Overman
F
ounded in 2013 by Jackie Krick (owner of ECU Communications), IMPACTO Youth, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has one mission: to advance and improve the lives of economically and socially disadvantaged youth in the Greater Prince William area. IMPACTO, which stands for Influence, Motivate, Promote, Accomplish and Create Total Opportunity, aims “to create leaders and productive members of our local community while empowering our youth to obtain their goals,” said executive director Caroline Shaaber.
IMPACTO Youth Is All About Students By working with Prince William County Public Schools (PWCPS), IMPACTO is able to reach and empower elementary–through–high school students to create their own paths to achievement, prosperity, self-fulfillment and community enrichment. The organization continues to grow its programs to help ensure youths are able to participate in workforce development, leadership, learning and literacy. Since its formation IMPACTO’s accomplishments are notable and include: n Funding five robotics floors for use by five Title 1 schools, as well as one travel robotic floor for use by all 90 plus PWC schools. In December 2017, an IMPACTO youth robotic group participated in the VEX Robotics competition at Woodbridge High School. More recently, Parkside Middle School students put their robots and the robotic travel floor into action and qualified for the first time for state championships. Three of these team members were also selected to head to Iowa for the Robotics U.S. Open. “This was our first major initiative and it was a huge success,” Shaaber said. n Sponsoring youths to participate in the Leadership Prince William junior program. “Since 2016 we have sponsored youths to take part in Leadership Prince William Youth Academy program,” said Shaaber, “identifying kids who
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L-R: Jackie Krick, founder and Caroline Shaaber, executive director of IMPACTO Youth.
wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to take part.” This program enables students to build leadership skills through meaningful hands-on team building experiences and leadership workshops. n Keystone programming through IMPACTO Youth’s Academy, a 9-week business program held at the CenterFuse Coworking space in Historic Manassas. The most recent graduates of this program from Osbourn High School even had the Mayor of Manassas stop by. In partnership with the Governor’s STEM Academy in Manassas, the workforce development program enables 60 high school students to get “real world” experiences under the mentorship of local professionals.
Photos courtesy IMPACTO Youth
The Parkside Middle School Robotics Team qualified for state championships for the first time and sent three members to the Robotics U.S. Open, with the help of IMPACTO Youth.
n Developing in-school leadership programs in conjunction with Rotary International for local high schools. n Sponsoring 133 students to attend the Boys and Girls Club summer camp. n Purchasing tablets for elementary schools in Prince William and the City of Manassas to help progress students’ literacy. In addition to organized programs, IMPACTO also jumps into action when a specific need is identified. Shaaber said, “We went to Manassas Park Community Center and we heard about a young immigrant middle school student who needed a laptop because he had been chosen to complete the First Generation to College program through George Mason. We handed that boy, who had spent the summer taking care of his siblings as his parents worked, a laptop. He was in tears.”
Partnerships Are Key IMPACTO Youth is successful because of the partnerships they have within the community. From PWCPS to Supporting Partnerships and Resources for Kids (SPARK), to the Prince William Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Prince William and other local businesses, “we have some amazing connections and they all have been very forthcoming,” said Shaaber. According to IMPACTO’s website, “partnerships between the local schools in Prince William County, City of Manassas and the City of Manassas Park and local businesses help prepare local students for future educational and career success, with the emphasis on youth workforce development, aligning employers with local talent.” “Not all kids go to college,” Shaaber noted, “so the goal is to create opportunities for these youth. IMPACTO is the organization that helps shape these connections.” Focusing on females in the workforce, IMPACTO Youth “partners with a smaller organization to bring support to young
Latinas in Prince William County by empowering them to selfadvocate and encourage them to engage in their community and express the importance of education, with focus on solidarity, integrity, compassion, tenacity, citizenship and leadership.” Additionally, IMPACTO Youth is a member of the NOVA CTE Workgroup focused on Women in IT and also the Manassas City Education Foundation Board.
The Future Is Bright On February 28, 2018, IMPACTO Youth was awarded the Agnes L. Colgan community award for Arts and Education at the Prince William Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. Along with a physical award, it also received $1,000 in prize money. The award is named after the late wife of the late Virginia State Senator Charles J. Colgan. As a mother and grandmother she was known to live by example, encouraging friends, family members and strangers to give back to those in need. Success doesn’t come without the hard work of all the people involved with the organization as well as the support and sponsorship of the community. “We have amazing connections in the community,” said Shaaber. “When we ask for help, people are willing to support us.” The organization continues to evolve via sponsorships and fundraising so they can continue their work. “We are always on the lookout for more sponsorship,” said Shaaber. Additionally, “we will hold our second fundraiser, a Western Casino night, in the future.”
A graduate of American University’s School of Communication, Olivia Overman (ooverman@princewilliamliving.com) is a freelance writer for both online and print publications. prince william living April 2018
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health & wellness Infertility Awareness Month and Local Resources for You
2-for-1 Admission! Skate rental not included. Not valid on Friday night. Cannot be combined coupon per customer.
Expires April 30, 2018 Youth & Adult Hockey Figure Skating Lessons for All Ages Public Skating Parties/Meetings
Fundraisers Scout Badges Broomball Curling Pro Shop & Cafe
O
ne week in April is devoted to infertility awareness. For millions of women, infertility is an issue with which they’re all too familiar and deal with every day. April 22-28 is designated National Infertility Awareness Week. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate 1 in 8 couples have trouble conceiving; that’s 15 percent of American couples.
www.pwice.com (703) 730-8423
Dr. Richard Jenet, chairman of obstetrics and gynecology at the Women’s Health Center at Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center and practicing physician at About Women OB/ GYN, sees this situation often. “We often have to calm people down. People get really anxious if they try for one month and haven’t gotten pregnant,” he said. Dr. Jenet says when a patient comes to him wanting to start a family, he begins with the basics: getting blood work and taking both general and reproductive histories. “We talk about some healthy life choices and have people try to get pregnant on their own,” he said. “Unless there’s something obvious, we don’t talk about infertility until after a year of trying.” Most couples get pregnant within that year, but if not, Jenet starts looking at other factors. “Several items are considered: age, weight, health conditions and lifestyle, just to name a few.” If there are no obvious problems, that’s when a reproductive endocrinologist is recommended to help pinpoint the issue. Jenet says the advances in medicine, during his nearly 30 years in practice, allow women more alternatives than ever before: “There are more medications. There are more treatments. There are a lot more options.” And, that means more hope for women trying to get pregnant. To learn more about OB/GYN or endocrinology services near you, call 1-800-SENTARA or go to sentara.com.
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lifelong learning The House Student Leadership Center— Working Together for Today’s Youth By Helena Tavares Kennedy
N
ow in its 12th year of operation, The House Student Leadership Center is an excellent example of cross-sector collaborations that consider youth development needs in Prince William County. Addressing more than one critical challenge simultaneously, the center offers a menu of diverse and comprehensive services in one location to improve education, employment, and health and wellness outcomes for pre-teens and teens. Described by founder and president Helen McCormick as “a student’s ultimate personal trainer,” the center’s coordinated continuum of services includes its intensive out-of-school time programs that include before- and after-school care and summer camp. Students in grades 4-12 can get to the center by riding on an assigned Prince William County School bus route or the center’s shuttles. Todd McCormick, Helen McCormick’s son and The House’s executive director, said, “The Prince William County community needs assessment indicates that the demand for youth-oriented activities and services is outpacing the available capacity to serve these needs through proactive programs that enrich youth development and strengthen families. Youth need opportunities after school to continue their learning and development by facing new challenges and seeing multiple paths for advancement.” “The center’s programs influence youth in several performance measures, including students’ attitudes toward school: greater ontime promotion, higher school attendance, a deeper engagement in learning, less disciplinary action, and improved overall mental health,” McCormick said.
Partnering and Serving The House works with community partners to inspire, create and drive thoughts into action. Its newly designed and managed Office on Youth Mental Health and Wellness, in partnership with Potomac Health Foundation and NOVANT Health UVA System Prince William Medical Center Foundation, responds to comprehensive needs of pre-teen and teen youth facing early life challenges. The office addresses issues like relationships ending, bullying, sexual orientation and prejudice, ADHD, depression, or anxiety. The onsite office meets those needs in a youth-friendly way with early mental health support services that include recreational therapy, neurofeedback training, and cognitive behavior therapy. “The House does difficult, much-needed work to ensure the strong mental health of young people in our community,” said Susie Lee, executive director of the Potomac Health Foundation.
Students at The House Student Leadership Center receive services such as education improvement, employment, and health and wellness outcomes for pre-teens and teens.
“The organization provides a safe atmosphere for youth and addresses their whole well-being through various programs. Potomac Health Foundation is proud to be a supporter of The House.” With a delivery style and approach that incorporates culture, technology, and current events, The House’s youth-centric model is delivered peer-to-peer by staff and a mix of millennial alumni who serve as mentors and managers of its initiatives, which are designed to convert students’ goals into their life strengths. Ultimately, alumni leadership drive the culture of innovation forward, attracting more young thinkers and leaders, which continues to grow the impact of the center’s work. One of their key events is the National Capital “A Cinderella Ball,” a rapid growth capstone project of students at The House. “At the forefront of adding value to others, students carefully plan and flawlessly execute the annual quality-of-life gift to benefit children from military families living with a life-limiting disability or illness,” said McCormick. The 13th annual event will be held Sunday, June 3, at the Willard InterContinental in Washington, D.C. “I received mentoring at the House Student Leadership Center in middle and high school,” said Zack Vaughn, a program associate who now manages a team of alumni at the center. “Today, I am in the group of House alumni with many interests and a variety of backgrounds, but we all have one thing in common. Each of us had a valuable experience at the center, and we’re eager to lead as staff while remembering our past here.” (continues on page 25) prince william living April 2018
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taking care of business Woodbridge Entrepreneur Brings a Taste of Uganda to Prince William County By All Things Writing, LLC
A
Photos provided by Gumax International
ugustine Guma has traveled a great distance from Uganda to Virginia. More than 7,000 miles separate the East African country from the East Coast of the United States. But Guma’s longest journey has been from surviving the civil wars that marred his childhood to become a successful entrepreneur with multiple businesses headquartered in Woodbridge. Throughout it all, the same skills helped Guma succeed. The savory East African pies he learned to make and sell as a child now form the core of his diversified enterprises, Gumax International. While he also offers accounting and software services, it’s those Guma Pies that represent the heart of his business.
Acts of Generosity Guma was born in 1971 near Kampala, the Ugandan capital situated on the shores of Lake Victoria. By 1981, the family had moved north, where Guma was attending school when the Ombaci Massacre took place, following the overthrow of military dictator Idi Amin. That tragic incident left about 100 people dead and countless others wounded and traumatized. Guma, one of the few children to survive, fled to the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo. That experience affected Guma in ways that have reverberated from his native Uganda to his adopted America. It was during the time as a refugee in Congo that he encountered a pair of American institutions that left a lasting impression—the American Red Cross and the U.S. military. “They were giving out food, blankets, and even ate grasshoppers with local people when food was scarce,” he said. “I later found out that they were from the American Red Cross and U.S. Army.” Those acts of generosity stuck with him: “If a stranger can love you with no strings attached, so much so that he will sacrifice his life to protect you, suffer with you, and even die for you, who am I not to pay back?”
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Augustine Guma displays his tasty Guma Pies that are available at his restaurant, food trucks and grocery store kiosks.
When Guma returned to Uganda to continue his education, his family struggled to pay the tuition. That’s when he first began selling the savory pies that continue to provide his livelihood. Known as samosa, or sambusa, in the East African region, he now markets them as Guma Spicy Pies. “I had to sell sambusa to schools and canteens, to buy school supplies, in addition to the help I received from my two elder brothers,” he said. Those sales helped him finish school and head to college, where he earned a degree in mechanical engineering.
Love Is Spicy In 1991, Guma escaped the wars ravaging Uganda and Congo, winding up in Cape May, N.J. He started working as a
dishwasher, but soon began learning professional cooking skills. At the same time, Guma, who speaks seven languages, was busy picking up degrees in computer science and accounting. Eventually, Guma moved to Prince William County, where he lives with his wife, Dr. Stella Kintu Guma Nalongo, and five children. Working with software development, Guma discovered the connection between his passions for computer algorithms and food recipes, which are both ways of getting the job done. “It’s all some form of precise instructions to create something fabulous,” he said. “I preferred the latter because of the instant appreciation of the product—the dish created.” Guma adapted the spicy pies his father created and sold in Uganda, using all-American ingredients such as beef, chicken, vegetables, lobster and crab. The pies are available at his restaurant, Gumax Cafe & Grill in Woodbridge. The company also has food trucks and grocery store kiosks. And Guma Pies soon will be available at select Costco stores. They’ll be featured in roadshows—special events showcasing products for specific stores—at 90 locations in the northeast. The company plans to expand by partnering with individuals, businesses or charities to introduce the brand into at least 200 major cities.
A Greater Mission Guma’s business has traveled a path that parallels his own journey, with branches now in the United States, Uganda and South Africa. He began offering tax preparation services in 1998, eventually expanding to provide a wide range of accounting and financial consulting services. With the addition of the Guma Spicy Pie business, the enterprise has grown to include food manufacturing and distribution. Now Guma wants to pay it forward by providing franchise opportunities, using a cross-section of recipes and culture from around the world to bring people together through food and entrepreneurship. He was inspired by those experiences with the Red Cross and the U.S. military during his time as a refugee. “Having been a beneficiary of such volunteer work, I developed a burning desire to give back to the world,” he said. “There are many more good people out there and other sources of power to change the world, especially those with the power of money, knowledge and love, who, if used positively, can impact the world in a significant way.” For more information about Guma’s food production, visit gumapies.com, and for more information about Guma’s accounting services visit gumaxcpas.com.
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family fun Teaching the Next Generation about the Farmers Market By Amanda Causey Baity
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s the spring starts to roll in so do the warmer days. Going to the farmers market is a fun outing for kids, but can also be a great learning experience for them. From an early age, I began taking my children to the farmers market to explain how farmers grow things and why eating healthy is important, as well as teaching them about supporting local businesses. Here are a few activities that you can try with your family. 1. What is local food? Understanding what local food is gives kids a sense of appreciation for their meals, and shopping at a local farmers market can make this concept a little more concrete. By asking the farmers where their farms are located, they will understand that food is grown local to where they live. As a parent, you can share with them the importance of eating locally-grown foods to support financially the family farm and local community, as well as to reduce environmental impact by purchasing foods that require less gas mileage to get from the production to the consumption site. 2. What goes into making a meal? How does that food get to the table? Eating isn’t a matter of microwaving something or boiling it. Food goes from ingredient to recipe to table. Children can learn more about that process, including picking out a recipe, shopping for the ingredients and then preparing the meal. For older children, teaching the actual reason for including individual ingredients and the science that is involved with cooking is a way to keep them engaged.
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3. What different types of farming are used? There are quite a few adults who don’t understand how organic and conventional farming differ, but you and your kids can learn first-hand. If you point out which foods offered are organic, it will spur a conversation about the differences between organic and conventional farming and also turn the conversation to the many different ways farmers treat their crops. For more details about different farming techniques in Prince William, please reference our August 2015 issue. 4. Do foods have different seasons? Strawberries in January? That’s not natural… and your kids can learn that if you teach them about seasonality. As children visit farmers markets on a regular basis, they will see the availability of certain foods at certain times of the year, rather than all foods being available at all times like in a supermarket. They can ask the farmers questions about why foods grow better at certain times of the year due to weather and growing conditions. 5. What’s the difference between a fruit and a vegetable? The simple act of learning the names of all the fruits and vegetables can be a powerful teaching moment for you and your children. If you don’t know what to call it, how likely is it you will eat it? While getting your children to eat brussels sprouts is not likely, teaching them about how fruits and veggies grow and taste differently is a good idea. Talking about icky vegetables may increase the likelihood of a taste or two! (continues on page 26)
LIFELONG LEARNING (continued from page 21)
New Facility and Future Because of increased support and the growing need in the community, the center relocated to a larger facility in November 2015. The larger campus accommodates the demand for increasing the center’s programming and cocurricular activities and its ability to accommodate more students. Its EmpowerMEnt® initiative will expand this summer to provide a variety of college courses onsite in partnership with Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC). The college immersion credit program at the center will be for rising sophomores, juniors and seniors and will be offered during its out-of-school time programs year-round. “Undergraduatelevel courses will include business subject areas that integrate academic and applied activities facilitated by civic leaders, tech mavens, business founders, and activists that will link them to likeminded, ambitious young students for the introduction of college access and workforce readiness,” McCormick said. “As we prepare for what’s ahead at The House Student Leadership Center, I am inherently optimistic,” he added. “This kind of collective action will always drive progress in our county.” The House Student Leadership Center, a 501(c)(3) organization, is located at 14000 Crown Court in Woodbridge. The campus includes a café for serving daily, balanced meals, technology lab for academic enrichment, an urban garden for nutrition education, recreational courts for youth development through sports and leadership development activities, a jumbo projection screen and stage for leadership and simulcast teaching, and conference rooms for breakout sessions. To learn more, visit thehouse-inc.com. Helena Tavares Kennedy (hkennedy@ princewilliamliving.com), a longtime Prince William County resident, is a freelance writer and communications consultant at htkmarketingservices.com and livinggreendaybyday.com.
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FARMERS MARKET (continued from page 24) Tips for your trip to the farmers market: • Go early. You’ll beat the crowds and snatch up the best-looking produce. Be spontaneous. Sure, you know a few things you have to pick up when you get there, but if your kid eyes a gorgeous basket of peaches, don’t say no. • Bring reusable bags. Most vendors at farmers markets don’t have bags, so be prepared by bringing your own. • Carry cash. Some farmers market vendors accept credit cards, but not all of them do. Be prepared with cash for easier transactions. • Let your kids pick the best-looking produce. Tell them what you need, and one at a time, let them examine the fruits and veggies and make their selections. It may make your trip take a little bit longer, but it’s a great way to teach the kiddos how to make a good pick. • Plan your meals from the market. Make that smartphone do some work. Once you’ve seen the selection the market has to offer, pull up your favorite recipe app and let the kids help you decide what you’re going to cook for the next few nights
(using the fresh produce from the market, of course). • Ask the vendors questions. Chances are, if they grow it, they eat it. If you run into a piece of produce you’re not familiar with, ask the vendor what it tastes like and how they like to prepare it. • Shop around. If you’re at a farmers market with a lot of vendors, maybe don’t grab the first pretty red tomatoes you see. Look around for the best prices and selection before you pull out your wallet. • Try something new. Chances are, there’s plenty at the farmers market you haven’t tried. Try to select something new every time you go. Amanda Causey Baity (abaity@princewilliamliving.com), Prince William Living’s director of operations and photo editor, also blogs about thrifty family activities on her blog GreenOwlCrafts.com.
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April 2018 prince william living
EIDOS TECHNOLOGIES Helping clients
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Recognize a loved one, or your business, by supporting the new exhibits and educational programs with a generous donation to the Brentsville Jail Room Sponsorship Project. We need your continued support as we are halfway to our goal! Learn more at preservepw.org 703-792-4754
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home & hearth 3 Tips for Exterior Painting Success By David Funk
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pring is finally here, and like many folks, you may have some exterior painting projects that need to get done. If you’re planning a project like this, take a few minutes to consider some tips that will help you achieve a successful result. 1. Weather. Just because it’s sunny and warm doesn’t mean you’re ready to begin. Give your home ample time to dry out from the last rainy period, generally 2-3 days of normal spring temps and humidity. Painting failure can easily result from overlooking this simple step. 2. Paint Quality. This is one of the most under appreciated factors in any project. Using a high-quality paint will not only help with the ease of application and reduce frustration, but it will ensure that your home will stay beautiful for as long as possible. Saving a few bucks on lesser quality paint is simply not worth the risk, ever. 3. Spot Priming. Oftentimes your entire home doesn’t need priming. In many cases, only certain “spots” or areas that may have bare wood exposed will need to be primed. Using a quality primer on these areas will give you the best outcome possible while reducing the chance for paint to fail again prematurely in these areas. These simple steps are frequently overlooked and can cause unnecessary rework and frustration. With a little extra planning, your project can look just as good as if you hired a pro to do it. If you still experience some difficulty during your project, send me an email with your questions. I’m always happy to help point you in the right direction.
David Funk (dave@davidfunkpainting.com) is the owner of David Funk Painting & Design in Woodbridge.
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local flavor
Maaza 29
City Dining in the Suburbs By Marianne Weaver | Photos by Mark Gilvey
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aaza 29 might be located in a Gainesville strip mall, but take one step in the door and there is no doubt this restaurant won’t be serving the typical chain-style, rushed meal. Owner Emanuel Reta wanted to create a restaurant to rival even the swankiest D.C. hot spots. From the 80-seat dining room filled with a hint of spice and familiar aromas to the living room/bar with updated classic cocktails and exclusive boutique wine list, Maaza 29 delivers a downtown dining experience to suburban diners. “Our menu is a beautiful play on spices from Ethiopia applied to classic American and Italian dishes,” Reta said. “There are things on our menu that you wouldn’t expect to find, unless you were in D.C.”
Dining Reta described the menu as “intellectually provocative.” The exotic dishes are created with locally sourced produce and meats. Hormone-free beef comes from as far as Pennsylvania and as close as Nokesville. Meats are butchered onsite. Cheeses, pasta and sauces are all homemade. “Our lasagna takes 30 minutes to make, and we have confit of duck and awaze tibs,” he said. “Most of the items on our menu are things you would not typically expect to find in Gainesville.” The most popular dish on the menu is the lamb shank ($24.95), which is braised in herbs and spices for 14 hours and served with rice. A close second is the vegetarian platter ($17.95), which includes a combination of chickpeas, lentils, curried vegetables, collard greens and two seasonal items. Maaza 29 owner Emanuel Reta.
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The menu also features traditional awaze tibs, a traditional Ethiopian spice blend of berbere spices, smoked paprika, lemon
bacon bits ($6.95). Brunch staples include a twist. The classic French toast ($11.95) is a banana mascarpone stuffed toast with praline pecan cream. Chicken and waffles ($13.95) feature spiced free-range chicken and organic maple sauce. Awaze eggs are served with beef tibs ($16.95), chicken tibs ($14.95), or Eggs polpetti ($13.95), which is mozzarella-stuffed meatballs with awaze eggs. “We have a small menu because we try to do everything the right way,” said Reta. “Everything on the menu [is something] I ate growing up.” Family recipes are fitting because Maaza is named after his mother. He chose the location, just a few miles from his Bristow home, so he could have a job that allows him the opportunity to watch his kids grow.
Drinks Reta set out to create a bar that “is an extension of your living room.” The space is filled with low-back leather couches and spacious coffee tables. Each item on the menu at Maaza 29 is a dish that owner Emanuel Reta ate growing up.
juice and wine. The platter is available with beef ($16.95), chicken ($15.95), shrimp ($17.95) or lamb ($17.95) and served with sautéed onions, garlic and peppers, with a side of rice or injera (Ethiopian flat bread), and your choice of tomato salad, collard greens, spiced fries, curried potatoes and carrot or roasted corn. Reta was featured on WUSA’s Great Day Washington making his take on the classic crab cake. “We use some Ethiopian spices in our crab cakes that are 100 percent crab,” he said. “There is no filler; they are served in a ramekin full of crab.” The crab cakes ($25.95) are served with potato croquettes and seasonal vegetables. Joe Duffus of Gainesville stumbled upon Maaza 29 on his way to another business in the Route 29 strip mall. “Ethiopian cuisine is not common around here,” he said. “The lamb shank is braised 14 hours and falls off the bone. The beef awaze tibs, another specialty, were nicely spiced and hearty.” Just as popular, Reta pointed out, are the appetizers. He said guests often stop by for a glass of wine and a few appetizers. The most ordered appetizers, he noted, are the lamb lollipops ($15), a grilled lamb chip served with mint and lime puree. Also topping the list, he said, are the sambusas—crisp deep-fried pastry stuffed with spiced potato, lentils, beef or chicken ($9) or crab or tuna ($12). Brunch is served Sundays 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. “We serve what brunch is meant to be, and that is not just eggs,” Reta said. Breakfast starters include duck confit ($7.95); The Classic, which is deviled eggs, jumbo blue crab, and awaze ($9.95); and Jewels of the Nile, which is Medjool dates stuffed with mascarpone and
“We do a lot of craft cocktails, old recipes made new,” he said. “Our drinks are the real deal: If your order the lychee, pomegranate and ginger, your drink has lychee, pomegranate and ginger. There is no [artificial] flavoring. We don’t use simple syrup or flavored liquors.” The wine list is something very special. Reta has 8,000 bottles in an offsite wine cellar and will soon be moving as many as 1,000 of those bottles into the restaurant, spanning a space from floor to ceiling. To encourage guests to expand their tastes, Maaza29 has created two limited membership VIP clubs. The 1967 membership ($50 per month) includes two bottles of wine six times a year, three free appetizers a month, and 20 percent off any bottle of wine anytime. The 1942 membership ($75 per month) includes three bottles of wine six times a year, four free appetizers a month, and 25 percent off any bottle of wine anytime. Both memberships include a free birthday dinner, which comes with an appetizer, entrée and dessert; and free members-only wine tastings. “And,” Reta added, “if you need an Uber ride home, we will get it for you.” Maaza 29 is located at 14630 Lee Highway, Gainesville. Dinner is served Tuesday through Thursday, 4–9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 4–10 p.m.; Sunday 4–8 p.m. Brunch is served Sundays 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Social hour(s) is Friday and Saturday, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. For more information, go to maaza29.com. 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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your finances Maintaining Financial Stability After a Job Loss By Bennett Whitlock, CRPC®
a qualifying event, which means you may shop the health care marketplace to find a plan that works best for you and your family.
F
Consider tax implications. Losing a job and finding a new one can affect your taxes. Severance pay, unemployment compensation, payment for accrued vacation or sick time and other financial benefits from your employer may be taxed. On the other hand, costs related to your job search, such as travel, mileage or moving, may be deductible. Consult a tax professional, who can help you determine what to expect from your tax return.
Private Wealth Advisor
inances can be a major source of stress for many Americans as they strive to balance a myriad of priorities. This financial stress is particularly prevalent for those who experience a job reduction or loss and no longer have the same amount of income coming in on a monthly and/or annual basis. The following tips can help you work to maintain financial stability: Reassess your financial situation. Start by reviewing your recent bank statements, current portfolio and upcoming financial obligations. Then, talk with your spouse or partner about how to prioritize future spending. If possible, try to maintain momentum on key financial goals, such as saving for college or retirement. Even a modest amount can add up, so continue to make saving what you can a habit. Understand your severance package. If you received a severance package, be sure you understand the terms, timeframe and payment amount. Your deal may include several paychecks, reimbursement for unused vacation or sick days and/or stock options, among other possible sources of income. Consider reviewing the terms with a trusted attorney or financial professional, particularly if you have the option to negotiate your severance. Some companies offer career coaching, human resources support or other non-monetary benefits, so don’t overlook the importance of these benefits. Use your emergency fund. If you have a healthy emergency fund (three-to-six months’ worth of expenses is ideal for most people), give yourself permission to dip into it. It can be challenging to watch money flow out after diligently building your savings, but doing so can help you meet financial obligations. Once you secure a new job, prioritize rebuilding your emergency fund, so you’re prepared if other unexpected expenses come your way. Avoid dipping into your retirement accounts. You have the potential to spend decades into retirement, so it’s important to maintain your dedicated savings. Borrowing or withdrawing money from a 401(k) is taxable, and you will also incur a 10 percent penalty fee. However, you could also miss out on months or even years’ worth of compounding and potential market growth that can be challenging to make up. Extend your health insurance. Take action right away to make sure you don’t experience a lapse in health insurance coverage. Unexpected illnesses or accidents can happen to anyone, and the financial impact can be significantly higher without the right insurance plan. If you received health insurance through your former employer, you may qualify for COBRA insurance offered through the federal government. Costs, length of coverage and specific plan options (including coverage for your spouse, partner or dependents) vary depending on your circumstances, so contact the U.S. Department of Labor or the Department of Health and Human Services for more information. Job loss is considered
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Meet with your financial advisor. Any change or interruption in your salary warrants a visit to a trusted financial professional. Together you can review your financial position and determine what measures you can take during an income drought to minimize the impact on your portfolio. You can also discuss your options regarding how to handle retirement savings, company stock or other financial perks you may have received through your former employer. 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. 12848 Harbor Dr, Ste 101, Lake Ridge, VA 22192 9073 Center St, Manassas, VA 20110 877-WHITLOCK bennett.c.whitlock@ampf.com • whitlockwealth.com CA Insurance #0F32105
Whitlock Wealth Management whitlockwealth.com
Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. The Compass is a trademark of Ameriprise Financial. © 2017 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. (8/17)
Our credit card is as thin as a credit card.
TheOtherApple.org
July 16-27, 2018
For students entering grades 7-9
Presented by Leadership Prince William
A unique day-camp experience because kids can change the world!
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Apply at www.LeadershipPrinceWilliam.org Applications accepted starting January 2018. Apply early because slots fill fast! For more information, call 571-765-7568 These materials are neither sponsored nor endorsed by PWCS
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calendar Coastal Shore Guided Hike
Sun. April 1 | 11 a.m. – 1:15 p.m. Leesylvania State Park 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Drive, Woodbridge Come out for our 3.5 mile Coastal Shore Guided Hike to learn about the park’s history. Please call the Visitor Center to register 24 hours in advance of the event at 703-583-6904. $7.50; lunch provided.
Prince William Living Presents Breakfast with an Expert Thurs. April 5 | 8 a.m. PWAR 4545 Daisy Reid Ave., Suite 150, Woodbridge Join us for a cup of coffee, continental breakfast and information from an expert, who will give you actionable advice you can put to work immediately in your business. RSVP princewilliamliving.com/ breakfastwithanexpert.
Brentsville 2nd Annual Art in the Park
april
Sat. April 7 | 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre 12229 Bristow Road, Bristow Enjoy the works of local artists and Prince William County students at the scenic setting of Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre. There will be local art for sale and the Historic Courthouse will be open for self-guided tours. 703-365-7895. Free; donations accepted.
Walking Historic Downtown Manassas Tour Sat. April 7, 14, 21, 28 | 3 p.m. Manassas Museum 9101 Prince William St., Manassas Learn about Manassas’s origins as a costumed interpreter escorts you. Wear comfortable shoes.
Bluebell Festival
Sun. April 8 | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Merrimac Farm Wildlife Management Area 14712 Deepwood Lane, Nokesville The Wildlife Garden is a beautiful area to watch wildlife, learn about native plants and pollinators, and get ideas for your own backyard. Informative tours and activities led by area naturalists, plus live string band music and a food truck. Tickets $5/5 for $20.
Detox to Retox… Beer & Yoga
Sat. April 14 | 10:30 a.m. – Noon Brew Republic Bierwerks 15201 Potomac Town Place, Woodbridge Our 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, hands-on assists and learn breathing techniques so you are ready to be more mindful when it comes to the beer tasting! Details brewrepublic.beer/events/detox-toretox-beer-yoga-2018-04-14/ $20.
BEACON Scrabble Scramble
Sat. April 14 | 6 – 9 p.m. Linton Hall School 9535 Linton Hall Road, Bristow This fifth annual event benefits BEACON for Adult Literacy through a night filled with two games of competitive scrabble, prizes, and raffles. Teams register as a group of four and pay $100 per team. For registration and sponsorship information, call 571-428-2504 or visit beaconliteracy.org.
American Red Cross Blood Drive
Mon. April 16 | 1:30 – 6:30 p.m. Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center 2300 Opitz Blvd., Woodbridge Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center is hosting a blood drive with the American Red Cross. Please call 1-800-RED-CROSS or go to redcrossblood.org to schedule your life-saving donation.
Volunteer Fair
Wed. April 18 | 9 – 10:30 a.m. Chick-fil-A 4101 Old Bridge Road, Woodbridge Chat with representatives from various area organizations that could use your help. Enjoy a cup of free coffee while you learn about community organizations and how you can become a volunteer.
Prince William Living’s Lunch with the Publisher
Wed. April 18 | 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 premiere lifestyle magazine, as you learn about: Getting your press releases published, tying into the power of our social media presence, creating visibility packages that increase your reach to targeted consumers, and focusing on your message. Lunch provided by Okra’s. RSVP at princewilliamliving. com/lunchwiththepublisher.
Café Pottery
Thurs. April 19 | 6 – 8 p.m. Badwolf Brewing Company 8420 Kao Circle, Manassas Drink. Paint. Socialize. Save your space at BadWolf Brewery to come out and paint on pottery you can use! Register on EventBrite.com by searching Cafe Pottery @ BadWolf Brewery. $20.
12th Annual Live Well Festival and Race
Sat. April 21 | 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Harris Pavilion 9201 Center St., Manassas Free health screenings, fitness classes, kid activities, entertainment, and more. Recycle those gently used household items or clothes to a worthy cause, visit with the recycling and environmental exhibitors, and help the kids make earthfriendly art projects. The Shredding Truck will be back, farm-to-table cooking demos will be held throughout the day, and there will be a 5K, 10K, and 1 mile fun run.
Have an event? Visit princewilliamliving.com/events to submit details to our online calendar.
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Kite Festival
Sat. April 21 | 10 a.m. – Noon Signal Hill Park 9300 Signal View Drive, Manassas Park Join us as we launch our kites into the sky at Signal Hill Park. All kites are welcomed. You may purchase a kite for $5 if you do not already have one.
Beaglefest
Sat. April 21 | 12 – 4 p.m. Costello Park 99 Adams St., Manassas Park Romp with your dog at the Manassas Park Dog Park. $10/dog; rain date April 28.
Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel
Sat. April 21 | 8 p.m. Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas Piano music enthusiasts and newcomers alike cherish Jeffrey Siegel’s beloved “concerts with commentary” series that makes everyone feel like a classical music insider. An interactive Q&A will conclude this program. Tickets: hyltoncenter.org.
Clothing Donation Drive Fundraiser for Semper K9
Sun. April 22 | 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Semper K9 Assistance Dogs 14867 Prestige Drive, Woodbridge Semper K9 is Going Green. We will be collecting your unwanted household items for a donation drive with Savers thrift store. Donors will receive tax receipt and 20% coupon for their next shopping trip to Savers.
See Global, Stay Local
Thurs. April 26 | 6 – 8 p.m. Manassas Park Community Center 99 Adams St., Manassas Park Celebrate Manassas Park’s unique global heritage through art, literature, firsthand accounts, and activities for all ages. Free.
Warrior Angels 8K Run/Walk Sat. April 28 | 8:30 a.m. – Noon Burke Lake Park 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station WestRash Charities, a Prince William County nonprofit charity dedicated to
finding cures and providing hope for kids with cancer, will host the Warrior Angels 8K Run/Walk. For additional information, visit westrashcharities.org/ warriorangel8k.
Manassas Reads Community Book Festival
Sat. April 28 | 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Harris Pavilion 9201 Center St., Manassas Free family event featuring giveaways and crafts, free books for all ages, special guest readers, student and school presentations, live music. Read to Manassas Therapy dogs, meet published authors, and more.
Disney’s The Little Mermaid Sat. April 28 | 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. Sun. April 29 | 3 p.m. Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas Pied Piper Theatre’s production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid follows the beautiful young mermaid, Ariel, who longs to leave the ocean and walk in the world above the sea. Tickets: hyltoncenter.org.
Tee Up for BARN
Mon. April 30 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Evergreen Country Club 15900 Berkeley Drive, Haymarket Join BARN Community Housing on the Evergreen Country Club golf course as we raise funds to end homelessness. BARN Community Housing has been providing a safe, secure community living program since 1997 in Bristow. To register, visit barncommunityhousing. org/tickets-sponsorship/.
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Commercial Photography Branding
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