Prince William Living April 2019

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SPILLED INK VIRGINIA

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VINCENT & VINCENT

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OKRA’S CAJUN CREOLE

prince william living April 2019

The premier lifestyle magazine of Prince William and Greater Manassas

Architecture in Prince William PAGE 4

3 Reasons to Visit the Landfill PAGE 14

Local Lions Clubs Serve as Knights of the Blind PAGE 18

princewilliamliving.com

S E N TA R A N O R T H E R N V I RG I N I A M E D I C A L C E N T E R

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table of contents April 2019 | Vol. 9 | No. 4

FEATURE STORY If Walls Could Talk: Architecture in Prince William

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DEPARTMENTS FROM THE PUBLISHER Feeling Renewed. You?

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18

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ON A HIGH NOTE Local Writers Take the Mic at Spilled Ink, Virginia

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DESTINATIONS Jump, Jump, Jump, Off to the Dump! 3 Reasons to Visit the Landfill

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GIVING BACK Local Lions Clubs Serve as Knights of the Blind

18

LIFELONG LEARNING Going Full STEAM(MM) Ahead

21

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS The Freedom to Work: Vincent & Vincent

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FAMILY FUN Celebrate Earth Day Every Day

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LOCAL FLAVOR Okra’s Cajun Creole: A Beloved But Not-always-spicy Part of Manassas History CALENDAR

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COLUMNS

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THE FASHION FOLDER HEALTH & WELLNESS HOME & HEARTH YOUR FINANCES

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About the Cover: A revitalized art deco style building with an exoskeleton structure to add two floors. Design by Lovless Porter Architects.

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prince william living Rebecca Barnes

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

Katherine Gotthardt EDITOR IN CHIEF kgotthardt@princewilliamliving.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jennifer Halter, Helena Tavares Kennedy, Roxy Rowton, Ashley Claire Simpson, Amy Taylor, Marianne Weaver, Bennett Whitlock

GIVE BACK PRINCE WILLIAM INITIATIVE Melissa Payne, melissa@givebackpw.org Johnnie Barnes, johnnie@givebackpw.org CLIENT CARE SPECIALIST Diane Puigdomenech, dpuigdomenech@princewilliamliving.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Vanessa Vega Braun, vbraun@princewilliamliving.com

COPY EDITOR Apryl Motley, CAE 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 premier lifestyle magazine of Prince William and Greater Manassas, is published monthly by Prince William Living, Inc. The opinions expressed in the magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Prince William Living. 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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April 2019 prince william living

from the Publisher Feeling Renewed. You?

A

pril is a month for renewal, as is spring in general. So, it’s fitting that I tell you I’m celebrating a personal renewal. As many of you know, I have been undergoing radiation treatment for breast cancer. I am pleased to say that it’s behind me now, and I look forward to healthier days ahead. The second announcement is that this is the inaugural issue of our new Editor in Chief, Katherine Gotthardt. Katherine brings her own fresh perspective, picking up where Kim Howard left off, and we’re pleased to have her.

In keeping with this idea of renewal, we offer our feature story

by Amy Taylor who writes about architecture in our area. Amy examines the old, the new and the refurbished, giving some insights into styles we often take for granted. Our Giving Back piece this month is by Carla Christiano, who reports on the local Lions Clubs and how they create a kind of renewal of their own

by supporting the community in a “visible” way. In Local Flavor, Jane Fullerton Lemons tells the story behind Okra’s Cajun Creole, the restaurant’s contributions to the community culture and its anniversary celebration. And Helena Tavares Kennedy gives us a unique place to go in Destinations—the local landfill.

That’s right. There’s good reason to visit.

We hope you enjoy those and all the articles you read here this month. We also ask that if you currently receive Prince William Living free of charge, please purchase or “renew” your subscription. Doing so helps us continue to serve as a community asset, highlighting the positive in this area we all call home.

All the best,

Rebecca Barnes Publisher

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If Walls Could Talk

Architecture in Prince William

By Amy Taylor | Photos by Amanda Causey Baity

Photo by Amanda Causey Baity

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ravel across Prince William, and you’ll encounter an eclectic collection of architectural styles in businesses, homes and schools. We have everything from historic towns to modern residential and business communities. But architecture is more than just a style. Architecture tells a story about what was happening in the area when the home, school or business was built. You can often date homes and businesses, getting a glimpse into what life was like when they were built, by examining the architecture. Owner of Loveless Porter Architects, LLC, Sean Porter, provided some insights into our area.

Blending in With History

Our area has a rich history and many neighborhoods and towns with their original architecture dating back centuries. Towns like Occoquan have a distinct historic look and feel. When modern architects are working on jobs in such areas, they are careful to blend in to not disrupt the artistic flow of the town. “In the more historic towns, there are various types of Federal, Georgian and Classical styles, depending on the original purpose of the building,� Porter said. (continues on page 6)

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Local history is preserved through a careful consideration of the times in which an area was built.

Colgan High School represents a newer kind of school building, with many educational amenities.

“You have to take a deep look at the general location and nuances of the community to determine how to apply your ultimate design.”

kitchen for an addition to the existing building/business,” Porter said.

Residential neighborhoods also each have a distinctive look, depending on the era in which they were built and the popular style of architecture at the time.

Fresh Ideas in School Design

“In more rural areas, you would [find] more eclectic design styles with various materials applied,” he said. “Then, depending on the decade, you find neighborhoods and communities that had the popular design styles of the time. Many smaller traditional homes and buildings are from the early 1970’s - 90’s to newer contemporary and rustic design from the 2000’s to today.”

Contemporary Architectural Projects in Prince William Porter said his firm designs a variety of styles for their clients.

“We don’t have a typical style we design to. The style is typically dictated by the client’s likes or the context where the project is located. It seems the trend is a craftsman/rustic-themed style where you see a lot of heavy trim, natural stones and multi-color styles of siding or finishes,” Porter said.

“We are rehabbing a church building built in 1900 for our new corporate offices, along with many storefronts throughout Historic Manassas. We are under construction with a couple daycare facilities in Manassas as well,” Porter said.

“In Haymarket, we have done various tenant layouts, but a cool design project we did (not built yet) was QBE where we took an old school (previously PACE West) and designed an ‘exoskeleton’ structure on the exterior of the building to add two additional floors for offices and a rooftop restaurant.”

Porter’s firm has also done some interior layouts for the Town of Occoquan, where it’s important to preserve the historical look of the town.

“Occoquan has our work on Good Hair Day Salon and Secret Garden. Good Hair Day was an interior layout of a two-story building, and Secret Garden was a design for a new bar and

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April 2019 prince william living

Like residential and business architecture, school architecture in our area also has a story. Gone are the days of pea-colored linoleum and pale-pink ceramic tile the size of matchbooks.

Moseley Architects has designed some of the newest schools.

Among their work is Kyle R. Wilson Elementary School in Woodbridge and Charles J. Colgan High School in Manassas.

Wilson Elementary was designed with its suburban location in mind, according to the firm.

“The desire to create a welcoming and stimulating learning environment resulted in daylight-filled interior spaces that feature a warm color palette,” reads Moseley Architects’ description of the work. “Focused on providing students with a secure learning environment, the facility offers simple linear circulation patterns, as well as wide stairwells with an abundance of glass, which can be easily monitored.”

Colgan High School also features the first indoor aquatics facility in the county, as well as a specialty performing arts center.

Their auditorium seats more than 1,600 people and has a large orchestra pit that extends under the stage. Another black box theater next to the larger auditorium can host small performances. The school also has specialized classrooms for its music technology program.

Moseley Architects describes the school this way: “The aquatics facility supports practices and meets for the county’s swim and dive teams. The 25-meter adjustable competition pool can host swim meets and practices simultaneously. A moveable bulkhead provides flexibility for numerous configurations with up to 15 lanes. The recreational pool features a 21-foot-high water slide.”

The Hylton Group Homes­—Signature Style of Dale City Different neighborhoods have different sets of needs, norms, incomes and taste. Architecture serves to meet the specific

homes. You will find an array of much larger Colonial homes with more frills built on larger lots. Much new construction incorporates architecture that is the current trend, with elements of craftsman or rustic-styles.

Evolution of Style

Office and government buildings, schools and homes demonstrate how architecture has changed over time.

demands of the neighborhood, giving each neighborhood a distinct flavor. Looking at residential architecture gives us a window into what’s going on with the people who inhabit the homes at the time they are created.

If you travel through Dale City, you’ll notice the signature Hylton Group homes that line the suburban streets. Cecil D. Hylton developed Dale City in the 1970s, and those homes tend to have a similar look. Hylton Homes are built in Colonial style, having two or three stories, with the kitchen and living room on the first floor and bedrooms on the second.

Many Dale City homes are split-foyer, a popular style in the 1970s and 80s, when much of Dale City was built. Split-foyer homes have an entryway that is between the first and second floor, with a short staircase going to each floor of the home.

Other homes in the area are split level homes, where there are multiple levels with staggered smaller sets of stairs. A popular model from the 1970s and 1980s was the Hyltonian Split Level, according to The Washington Post.

Also popular in Dale City homes were brick façades or vinyl siding in a range of neutral colors. These homes were made to be functional, not fancy. Robert C. Wills, a financial officer who worked for Hylton in the 1970s was quoted in The Washington Post saying, “He [Hylton] did not build the Cadillacs, he built the Fords, and he built them well.”

Dale City was created out of a need for a more affordable housing solution for government employees and mid-level military officers trying to raise a family and commute to D.C. It was less costly than living in the city or the suburbs closer to D.C. The simple neighborhoods made comfortable, affordable housing for many families when Dale City was built. Though Northern Virginia housing prices have risen as the suburbs of D.C. continue to creep further south, Dale City is still a more affordable alternative for families than the suburbs of its more northern neighbors.

Newer homes in Woodbridge are still built by the Hylton Group, along with homes by many other builders. The Woodbridge neighborhoods that expand beyond the original alphabetical streets of Dale City are lined with larger, more contemporary

Just like fashion, architecture evolves with the times. There are some elements of architectural design that are purely aesthetic, and trends will come and go. Some trends may even pop back up every few decades. Search for new homes or renovated homes and you might see that A-frame houses are making a comeback.

Not only are they considered low cost, A-frames tend to have minimal environmental impact and the ability to stand out from the crowd in terms of design.

Television, movies, magazines, social media and more also affect aesthetic trends. Homeowners may prefer sliding barn doors and natural stone countertops, while 10 years down the road, interior design may evolve into something else entirely.

Other elements, such as home size, lot size and landscaping are affected by economic trends. Just as Dale City’s rows of smaller, no-frills homes emerged from an economic need, larger contemporary homes reflect the affluence of area residents, favorable market conditions and a societal priority of investing money into one’s home. Many newer neighborhoods in Western Prince William County, for example, are made up of four- and five-bedroom homes, all with multiple, luxury bathrooms and gourmet kitchen options. Other neighborhoods designed for older adults come with aging-in-place, accessible features such as lower countertops, bathroom railings and ramps. More urban neighborhoods feature apartments and condos, but those options are also available in the suburbs of Prince William for those who aspire to scale down. And while subdivisions might start off looking similar, as they age, they take on the character of the people that inhabit the homes.

Technology has also become a part of the evolution of architecture. As we search for cleaner, affordable energy solutions, technology like solar roof tiles may start to become standard issue for residential and commercial designs. These tiles can blend in seamlessly with the roof design, unlike the traditional glass solar panels of the past. It might not be long before we see more of these designs in the Prince William area.

Across Prince William, architectural differences span decades, reflect sociological and cultural influence and economics, while harkening back to history. The next time you go for a local road trip, truly take in the elements of design that are all around and see what you can identify. Or look closely around your own home or place of business. If the walls could talk, what story would they tell?

Amy Taylor is a lifelong resident of Northern Virginia and a contributing writer. She can be reached at ataylor@ princewilliamliving.com. prince william living April 2019

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April 2019 prince william living

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on a high note Local Writers Take the Mic at Spilled Ink, Virginia

By Amy Taylor

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ell-known for its historic and cultural riches, the Prince William area inherently attracts musicians and artists. Among those artists are local writers who meet to share their work in public before an appreciative audience each month at Spilled Ink, a gathering of novelists, essayists, dramatists and poets who read their work in an open mic setting. Now in its fifth year, Spilled Ink, Virginia, continues to prosper and support writers at every level.

Spilled Ink, Virginia, Encourages Local Writers

The Launch of Spilled Ink, Virginia

“After all, the object is to be brave while stepping up to the microphone to share your work,” he said.

Spilled Ink was formed after teacher and writer John Dutton attended a meeting of Write by the Rails, the Prince William Chapter of the Virginia Writers Club. “Having once again suggested there should be a central meeting place for writers to share their work, I heard a response of, ‘If you want it, you do it,’ so I did,” said Dutton. That’s how he became the host of Spilled Ink. The group started reading at Grounds Central Station in Manassas, a coffee shop that has long supported local writers and artists. “On the first night, Jan. 16, 2015, I had a small amp and a microphone in front of a rattling Pepsi machine,” Dutton recalled. “A dozen people showed up to read that first night.”

However, Spilled Ink proved to be popular and quickly outgrew the venue, so it moved to Manassas-based Jirani Coffee House.

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It takes bravery to put pen to paper and even more to step up to a microphone and perform in front of a crowd. The participants, host and audience are all there to encourage writers, new and published, to bring their writing out into the world and keep moving forward in pursuit of the written word.

As the host of these events, it’s Dutton’s job to put participants at ease and make them feel welcome.

Dutton recalled local teacher, author and former Prince William County Poet Laureate Robert Scott once told him, “You know, all that stuff you keep writing and storing away is meant to be read.”

“I wholeheartedly agree,” said Dutton. “Write it, share it and be proud of it.”

With encouragement, the writers do just that. “Our new Prince William County Poet Laureate, Natalie Potell, told us she was inspired by Spilled Ink before she became a nominee,” Dutton said. But Spilled Ink welcomes writers of all ages and levels of experience.

Photos provided by John Cowgill

Writers of all ages are encouraged to read at Spilled Ink.

Teacher and writer John Dutton has hosted Spilled Ink for five years.

“Spilled Ink has had children the age of eight brave the microphone. High school students are some of our most delightful readers,” he continued. “Poets from Poets Anonymous in Fairfax are regular attendees. Robert Scott, and Kathy Smaltz, now former County Poets Laureate, often read to an entranced audience.”

Five Years of Reading is Reason to Celebrate For Spilled Ink’s five-year anniversary reading, more than 30 writers shared their work. Owner of Jirani Coffee House, Ken Moorman, hired a photographer to document the festivities, and the evening was recorded.

There were quite a few memorable performances that evening.

Michael Sensale invited crowd participation when he had audience members perform old-time radio shows with excerpts from his book.

Audience favorite Daniel Nearhood, a 9-year-old, read his color poems. He shared with the audience that he has nearly finished writing his series about primary colors.

“Mary Rook read, ‘Walking Our Dog, Chloe,’ ‘The Screen Judge,’ and a chapter from her YA novel, The Meeting with the Man in Black,” said Dutton. “I held Mary’s baby daughter while she read. Child care is just another of my many duties as host.”

Alice Mergler, a former teacher and current coordinator of the Prince William County Poet Laureate Circle, read her poems, “The Candle and the Mirror,” and “Happy New Year.”

Some performers read from their phones, while others memorized their pieces.

“Dave Martin often gives a poem completely from memory,” Dutton said. “He was inspired to read at Spilled Ink by his high school daughter. She is now in college, and he is still a regular at our Friday night readings.”

Michael Sensale reads excerpts from his novel.

Poet Katherine Gotthardt, president of Write by the Rails, used her phone for the first time to read in public. She shared three poems: “Comma, and,” “Shutting Down” and “Resolution.”

Several first-time readers stepped up to the mic during the anniversary performance. Among them were Brittany Santince, Elisa Everts and Harminder Lall. Lall read, “Learning from Mistakes,” a humorous tale of trial and error about preparing a Thanksgiving turkey.

Gail Williams, a newspaper journalist who has discovered the art of memoir, read her pieces, “Sunday,” “Shores They’re Rowing To” and “The Art of Living Alone.”

Be a Part of Spilled Ink, Virginia “If you would like to read at Spilled Ink, you are welcome,” Dutton said. Readers are asked to keep material to a PG-13 rating, as both presenters and audience members include a variety of ages and tastes. Readings should run 8 to 10 minutes maximum or 1,200 to 1,500 words. Novelists are asked to pick an excerpt rather than sharing an entire chapter.

If you can’t make it out to Manassas, there’s a second monthly event, Spilled Ink East, held in Woodbridge every second Friday at Tackett’s Mill’s Clearbrook Center for the Arts at 7 p.m.

“Spilled Ink celebrates local authors, poets and scribblers as they read their work. All are welcome to listen or read,” Dutton tells the audience each time. “If you are inspired by what you hear, please sign up to read. Be brave.”

For more information on Spilled Ink, visit SpilledInkVA.com.

Amy Taylor (ataylor@princewilliamliving.com) is a contributing writer and a native of Northern Virginia. prince william living April 2019

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the fashion folder Fresh from the Wash: Laundering and Caring for Silk Garments

By Roxy Rowton

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s the urge beckons you to sweep away the cold weather from your closet and reset the wardrobe for warmth, don’t overlook one of spring’s most comfortable, luxurious and natural textiles: silk.

Prized for its texture and luster, silk is often viewed as a delicate cloth reserved for special occasions. A silk garment is frequently limited to times when a fancy dress or fabulous something is required. Few get to experience the comfort and beauty of silk regularly.

Although most silk aficionados will leave laundering to professionals, simple silk garments can be safely laundered at home, while maintaining their beauty.

Steaming or Ironing Silk Clothing

Most silk garments will be wrinkled after washing. They may be steamed or ironed, but because silk is a protein like human hair, high heat will damage it, so flip dry silk garments inside out and iron on a low heat setting from the reverse side. Do not spray silk while ironing, as this can leave water marks.

Hanging and Storing Silk

Hang silk garments on a padded hanger to prevent slippage and marks. When storing, keep clean garments in a breathable, cloth bag. Moths are attracted to protein-based fibers, so add a natural moth repellant to the bag.

Proper laundering and storing will ensure your silk garments maintain their beauty season after season. Go ahead – enjoy your silk throughout all the warmer days of the year!

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.

Hand- or Machine-Washing Silk

It’s important to understand silk shrinks during laundering if it hasn’t been pre-washed. It’s also important to remember that silk is a natural textile, so wash and wear will bring about changes, such as subtle pebbling and fading.

Hand-washing is generally considered gentlest and safest.

However, silk can be laundered in the washing machine. Use cool to cold water and a mild detergent, select the delicate cycle and place garments in a mesh laundry bag.

Handle wet silk with care, as it’s most delicate when wet. Only wash or immerse silk in water for a few minutes.

Do not use bleach, which is harsh. During the rinse cycle, add a tablespoon of distilled white vinegar to dissolve detergent residue.

Do not wring silk garments. Simply wrap them in a dry towel to remove excess water. Lay the items flat on a rack or hang them to dry. Keep them away from direct sunlight.

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April 2019 prince william living

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destinations Jump, Jump, Jump, Off to the Dump!

3 Reasons to Visit the Landfill

By Helena Tavares Kennedy | Photos by Amanda Causey Baity

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any think of the landfill as anything but a destination – other than one for trash. But the landfill the Prince William County Solid Waste Division runs is quite a fascinating place to visit. Between monster trucks, circling birds, a pollinator playground, walking paths, repurposed canoes and tires filled with bee-friendly plants, there are plenty of reasons to explore the landfill. Here are three more you’ll discover when you take the official tour.

Reason 1: Mesmerizing Methane Mountain. Perhaps you’ve only been to the landfill to drop off hazardous waste or old electronics, but it really is awe inspiring to see the looming hill, or as some children call it, “the big mountain.” Watching the seemingly tiny, yet mighty, trucks make their way up this monstrous mound as eagles fly nearby provides entertainment on its own.

But this unique mountain also offers opportunity to observe how methane gas is captured and used to produce electricity onsite.

The division won state and national awards for its gas-to-energy program, which also earned the county recognition from the EPA’s Landfill Methane Outreach Program.

“Prince William Landfill’s energy facility produces over six megawatts of energy production for the county, providing about 5,000 homes in Prince William with electricity as well as heat for nearby county facilities,” said Deborah K. Campbell, communications specialist at the Solid Waste Division.

A new source of energy: the local landfill.

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Also nice? No smell. As trash decomposes and methane gas is produced, landfills typically smell terrible. Here, methane gas is captured in about 100 underground wells, which go to the energy facility where gas is converted to fuel used to produce electricity. It brings that electricity into Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative’s electricity grid.

The landfill offers a place to dispose of car batteries and other hazardous items that are not processed with general waste.

Reason 2: Captivating Compost. Another place to visit is the compost facility on Balls Ford Road, where you may have purchased mulch. Construction is underway for a facility to process yard, wood and food waste. The county is working with Freestate Farms LLC on the project.

“When fully developed, the Freestate facility will recycle over 80,000 tons per year of organic waste into high-value compost, soil products and non-synthetic fertilizers,” said Campbell. “It will also generate baseload renewable energy and environmental attributes, and it will produce sustainable and locally-grown fresh fruits and vegetables for sale back into the community.”

Construction of the facility began earlier this year. When complete, “it will double the processing capacity of organic material at the Balls Ford Road facility, extend the life of the landfill by reducing the amount of yard waste and food waste that would be buried and create about 20 new jobs,” said Campbell. And, it will provide another fun destination.

Reason 3: Fun-Filled Events. To celebrate Earth Day this year, the division is hosting a free “Compost Awareness Day” April 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Connaughton Plaza, 1 County Complex Court (near the McCoart building).

“This year’s theme, ‘Cool the Climate – Compost!’ will help visitors learn about the benefits of compost, how to compost at home, how to make a rain barrel and other gardening and environmental tips from the experts at Virginia Cooperative Extension Prince William Master Gardeners,” Campbell said.

The division will also provide opportunity for residents to shred personal, confidential documents on Saturday, May 4 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the landfill and Yung Elementary School.

“Due to construction, this service will not be available at the Balls Ford Road facility,” said Campbell. “The event is open to

Recyclable items get sorted prior to the recycling process.

residents only, no business or commercial shredding, and they are accepting confidential documents only. Non-confidential documents should be recycled curbside or at the citizen drop-off facilities.”

Prince William Recycles Day on Saturday, October 12 is a family-friendly event that includes landfill tours and fun activities to learn about trash, recycling and environmental issues. Check out www.pwcgov.org/trashandrecycling for information on these and other events, all at the local landfill.

Contributing writer Helena Tavares Kennedy (hkennedy@ princewilliamliving.com), a longtime Prince William County resident is a freelance writer, editor, and communications consultant at www.htkmarketingservices.com. prince william living April 2019

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giving back

Local Lions Clubs Serve as Knights of the Blind

By Carla Christiano

I

t started with a challenge from Helen Keller, probably the most famous deaf/blind person in the United States. A popular speaker and advocate for the American Foundation for the Blind, 45-year-old Keller spoke to the 1925 international convention of the Lions Club and asked the question that would change the then eight-year old service club forever: “Will you not constitute yourselves Knights of the Blind in this crusade against darkness?”

County Lions Club.

Now, Lions Club International is 102 years old and the largest volunteer service organization in the world. It has more than 1.4 million members belonging to 47,000 local Lions Clubs in more than 200 countries. Their global causes are vision, diabetes (which can cause blindness), hunger, environment and childhood cancer.

In the Prince William area, an estimated 300 individuals in eleven clubs, including the Linton Hall Leo Club for students in grades 5th through 8th, do much to fulfill the Lions’ mission and meet Keller’s challenge.

“And we recently made a donation to Project Mend-a-House after the organization built a ramp for someone we recommended,” said Lion John Beere, the club’s secretary. In 2018 alone, the club helped 43 people in its Manassas service area.

Lions Lead the Charge for Vision Screenings and More Virginia law requires that schools perform sight and hearing screenings for students in Kindergarten, second or third grade, and seventh and tenth grades, as well as for new students. Area Lions Clubs aid schools in their service areas by performing these screenings free of charge.

For the sight screenings, area clubs use the Welch Allyn (formerly Pediavision) Spot Vision Screener, which resembles a digital camera that can identify problems like near sightedness, far sightedness, astigmatism, amblyopia and eye misalignment. “The eye charts are long gone. Within seconds this machine gives results,” said Lion Joe Angsten, secretary of the Lake Jackson/Mid-

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April 2019 prince william living

Results are provided to school nurses. If a problem is found, the school informs the student’s family and recommends following up with a professional. If a family cannot afford eye doctor visits or eyeglasses, the Lions Clubs will pay for them. Depending on need, Lions Clubs will also fund eyeglasses, exams and other medical devices for adults. The Manassas Host Lions Club recently helped buy special shoes for a diabetic resident.

It Takes an Army To understand the scale of the Lions’ work, it’s worth noting that from July 1, 2018 to January 31, 2019, the Woodbridge Lions Club alone performed 7,328 vision screenings and 3,291 hearing screenings in 31 Prince William County schools and discovered 1,322 students with vision problems and 275 students with hearing problems that needed follow-up, according to information provided by Lion Dee Pfeiffer, the club’s sight and hearing chairman. During that period, the club performed 1,148 additional vision screenings and 928 additional hearing screenings at 10 other locations.

Across the county, the Manassas Host Lions Club performed 2,022 vision screenings in seven Manassas City schools and discovered 347 students that needed follow-up in 2018, according to Beere. “We discovered a third grader at Round Elementary whose parents said he had a reading problem,” he said. “Our test prompted the parents to go to a professional, who diagnosed his issue and recommended glasses. His mother said that with the

Photos provided by Lions Club

Lions take part in community events to raise awareness and build membership.

Lions perform thousands of no-cost hearing and vision screenings in local schools.

glasses he couldn’t put a book down. We made a difference in his life.”

Although the Lions Clubs screen a range of ages, they focus on children because 80 percent of children with learning disabilities may have an undiagnosed vision issue, and 95 percent of vision issues can be corrected if caught early. “The earlier that we can detect problems with children’s sight, the better chance they have of getting a successful education,” said Lion Gloria Wilson, president of the Park West Lions Club.

All area Lions Clubs also collect and recycle eyeglasses. Since 2007, the Park West Lions Club has been a satellite eyeglass recycling location. According to Wilson, by working with other Lions Clubs and organizations like the Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts, the club has processed more than 120,000 eyeglasses. After processing, the eyeglasses “are sent to our big recycling center in Falls Church to be shipped to mostly third-world countries from there,” she said.

Funding and Recruiting Challenges All projects require money, and the Lions Clubs raise it themselves through their own fundraising. “Because it’s a non-profit organization, all volunteer, the club has to maintain two separate budgets. One is administrative, that’s where the members’ dues are paid into. The activity budget is the money you gather to spend for community service projects. You can’t mix the money,” Angsten said.

Fundraising efforts vary, as do recruitment drives. Most new members join Lions Clubs because they know existing members.

That was the case for Kathy Keys of Manassas who recently joined the Manassas Host Lions Club after getting to know the president and his wife at a local gym. Keys is close to retirement and likes the flexibility Lions Clubs offer.

Local Lions perform community service on a regular basis.

The average age of our club [members] is maybe late 50s or maybe early 60s,” Angsten said.

For the Park West Lions Club, “the push this year is to recruit more women,” Wilson said.

Lion Helen Eitt, a new member of the Woodbridge Lions Club, was new to the Woodbridge area, and after two meetings with this club, she decided to join.

“I’m looking forward for the opportunity to giving back…I want to give to my community as much as I can…Take my hand and show me what I can do,” she said at her induction.

Learn more about local Lions Clubs at www.valions.org.

Contributing writer Carla Christiano (cchristiano@ princewilliamliving.com) is a native of Prince William County, admitted history geek and a technical writer for Unisys.

“The biggest problem with Lions, and I think it’s true of a lot of organizations, is that it’s hard to attract young people. Their schedules are so busy with whatever is going on with the family. prince william living April 2019

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health & wellness Supporting Independence in Seniors through Functional Exercise

By Katherine Gotthardt

T

he term functional exercise isn’t particularly mainstream, but the idea is. If you’ve ever had to have physical therapy, you’ve done functional exercises.

That’s where the concept originated from – the rehabilitation model in which therapists incorporate activities specific to the needs of the patient. Goals are set, and as they are reached, new and higher goals are developed. Functional exercises focus on building a body capable of accomplishing real-life activities in real-life positions, not just lifting a certain amount of weight in an idealized posture created by a machine at a gym.

While not a new idea, it’s one that has become increasingly popular, especially for seniors who can benefit from functional exercise programs designed to combat the challenges of aging. Here’s why.

As we age, we lose flexibility, balance and mobility. A sedentary life exacerbates these conditions, some of which are avoidable with exercise. It’s a downward spiral from there: The increase of pain and immobility encourages inactivity, which worsens the condition. Functional exercise programs for seniors aim to reverse this pattern.

Functional exercise routines tend to be simple and pragmatic.

In group sessions certified trainers or instructors lead, many of the exercises can be performed in chairs. Participants use light bands, one- to three-pound dumbbells, balls and/or foam pads, among other basic, lightweight equipment. Resistance is added by tightening the bands, increasing weight and/or shifting position. Everyday stretching movements are also important parts of any good functional exercise program.

Studies show that staying active with functional exercises – those designed to improve the strength, flexibility and mobility needed for day-to-day activities – can significantly improve quality of life for seniors.

In a study published by the American Journal of Health Promotion, elderly participants who were unable to perform certain daily activities on their own showed significant improvements in functional mobility after participating in a 16week functional resistance training program.

Functional exercise has also been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and Type 2 Diabetes. These exercises can increase cognitive ability and support emotional well-being as well. And, most importantly for seniors, functional exercise can decrease the likelihood of falls.

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While functional exercise can be helpful, it’s important to seek medical advice before engaging in any exercise program.

Decide with a doctor if functional exercise is a good fit. If it is, request information on qualified trainers who specialize in working with seniors. Doing so could support longer, healthier, more independent living.

Katherine Gotthardt is a full-time local writer, as well as Editor in Chief of Prince William Living. She serves as president of Write by the Rails, the Prince William Chapter of the Virginia Writers Club. Katherine can be reached at kgotthardt@ princewilliamliving.com

lifelong learning Going Full STEAM(MM) Ahead

By Ashley Claire Simpson

I

s your child left- or right-brained? Knowing can make a longterm difference, according to Meschelle Williams, founder, director and head educator of Dale City’s Precious Bookworm STEAM Learning Center (PBSLC).

“When kids are little, determining whether a child is right- or left-brained is similar to being able to tell whether or not they are right- or left-handed,” said Williams. “When they are exposed to the right ideas and activities, you can tell when math comes more easily to a child versus art.”

With her STEAM(MM) curriculum – comprised of science, technology, engineering, art, math, music and movement – Williams’ young pupils reap the benefits of a robust learning program.

“The advantage of getting young kids into a STEAM(MM) program is, I can take everything into account and talk about it with the parents,” she said. “Then they can focus on application.

Why would you want to keep teaching a child a lot of art when they’d really thrive with a greater focus on numbers?”

Williams established PBSLC five years ago, originally as Precious Bookworm Daycare Learning Center. She wholeheartedly believes that an all-encompassing education is vital.

“I went to a STEAM conference and immediately moved our learning center, which sees between 12 to 15 kids per day, to STEAM,” Williams explained. “Science, technology, engineering and math are important, but it’s been proven that art is a critical part of every student’s ability to self-express.”

According to Williams, it’s never too early to dive into STEAM learning that includes music and movement. Her own bookworms, whom she lovingly calls “inchworms,” are children between the ages of six months and five years old.

“A baby who can sit up and interact with Legos has better potential to grasp color-sorting and fine motor skills at age one,” Williams explained. “Age two, a child is building towers, knocking them down and starting to develop how to form figures. Three-year-olds will know which Legos they can put together to make animals, robots, ships, places, houses and so on.

Then, at ages four to five, we expose our students to plans and charts that show them general materials required to build and form a variety of objects.”

The approach is clearly working, too. She said that when her kids start Kindergarten, they are typically ahead of their peers in reading, writing, math, phonics and social interactions.

“When parents come pick up their kids, they are shocked that an 18-month-old can have a conversation,” she said.

All her curriculum’s material and activities are tailored, primarily based on age group.

“I draw inspiration from multiple sources to come up with my own curriculum,” Williams, who works alongside one other teacher and two assistant teachers, said. “I do a ton of reading and research to see what’s out there. Only if it works will I keep going with a lesson or activity. If not, I tweak it so it does work.”

STEAM(MM) has translated to wins for everybody involved.

The program is SMART Beginnings Certified, and there is a long line of families hoping for their kids to become precious bookworms.

Putting the ‘Book’ in Bookworm For those on the waiting list there’s no need to miss out. Earlier this year, Williams took a few steps beyond lesson planning to write and publish Early Readers: Moving and Reading to Action Verbs.

“I use my book in my own curriculum, and I’m worn out by the end every time,” she laughed. “The book encourages the kids to move. I also focused on some sight words, which is great because the kids get excited when they know simple words that they can spell and write. I want teachers, parents, everyone in the world to be able to use it. It’s geared for kids all ages between 18 months and five years old.”

In true STEAM(MM) fashion, the book incorporates multiple dimensions of learning in both obvious and more subtle ways.

“Science is a relevant part of the book, for the words on each page give the students an opportunity for movement of the body, which leads to more questions about the human anatomy,” Williams said. “It’s a book that involves phonics and encourages exercise. Exercise is really important, so I wanted to make a book that activates movement.”

This book is Williams’ dream come true—literally.

“For six months, I was having the children move while I chanted action verbs,” she recalled.

“True story: One night, I went to sleep and had a dream of writing a book. I woke up, went to my computer, and before I knew it, the book was complete.”

To learn more about Williams and her debut book, visit her author’s page, www.preciousbookworm.com or her Facebook page, www.facebook.com/PreciousBookWorm.

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. prince william living April 2019

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taking care of business

The Freedom to Work

Vincent & Vincent

By Katherine Gotthardt | Photos by Amanda Causey Baity

W

hen Cleveland and Judy Anderson, owners of Vincent & Vincent salon and spa, decided it was time to open their business in Prince William County, they had been commuting to Washington, D.C. The couple had been trained by experts in the beauty industry and wanted to open their own business. But the traffic was taking some of the joy out of the work. And so they learned everything they could from their mentors in order to open their own salon.

That one salon became two, and two became four and more.

Before long, the Andersons had more salons than they had anticipated owning. They also realized that now it wasn’t the commute that was stealing their joy. It was the number of salons.

“My DNA is happy,” says Cleveland Anderson. “Things got too complicated. And I don’t like being a tenant.”

Allowing something to interfere with his positive nature wasn’t going to work. So the Andersons discussed alternatives and decided they should return to running one salon. But that one salon wasn’t going to be just anywhere.

The Andersons connected with other professionals they had come to know throughout the years, like doctors and experts, who were also dedicated to their businesses and clients. While they were in different industries, they had some commonalities, one of them being a dislike of renting. Together, they bought the current Dumfries property and built the center where the salon and spa has remained for 25 years—Liberty Village on Main Street.

A Flexible but Demanding Industry Currently, there are a total of 28 employees at Vincent & Vincent. Those include thirteen hair stylists, one esthetician and two nail techs.

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Stylist Managers (L-R) Linda Steele and Karen Proctor.

“We set our own schedules,” says stylist manager Karen Proctor.

“Some work three, four or five days a week. Some work evenings to accommodate clients who work during the day. We work Saturdays to accommodate working people and weddings, too.”

Much of the staff at Vincent & Vincent has worked together for decades. Some come from as far as the Baltimore area.

The majority of the stylists put in 30-40 hours per week. Some work fewer days but longer hours. It’s a demanding job, but “it’s exciting,” Proctor says. “One day is never like another.”

Because of that, the stylists have to keep up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies. “You never know who will come through the door,” she says. “And it’s fun. It’s artistic. We can express our art on hair and in makeup, manis, pedis, facials and everything else we offer.”

She says aspiring stylists should “be prepared to work hard, have fun and keep learning.”

Strong Bonds Make for a Strong Business Not a day goes by when Anderson doesn’t look forward to coming to work. “Vincent & Vincent defines me,” he says. It is a passion he has invested in. However, it is more than years and money he and Judy have put into the business.

Anderson learned an important lesson a long time ago: “To take care of my clients, I have to take care of my professionals.”

The Andersons have invested in their staff, many of whom have worked for Vincent & Vincent for over a decade.

Proctor has been with Vincent & Vincent for fifteen years progressively as a technician, stylist, manager and mentor. But, she says, “most team members have been there 20 plus years.

The shampoo techs have been here between ten and fifteen years.

That’s unheard of in this industry.”

Some staff come all the way from the Baltimore area to work at Vincent & Vincent. It is worth it to them because they can set their own hours and be in an environment that nurtures them personally and professionally, Proctor says.

“I couldn’t do it without the great people I have,” says Anderson.

“My managers, they take care of everything. Paula Hasnain, Linda Steele, Karen Proctor…If I have to be out a few days, I can come back, and everything is in order, neat and clean and running well.”

Proctor says, “The ownership is very accommodating. They are wonderful people to work for. We all become a tight knit family.

And sharing knowledge and creativity makes it great.”

She encourages everyone to stop by to experience the friendly, professional service the salon offers. “It’s a wonderful environment,” she says. “You can feel it. Clients can feel it.”

For more information, visit vincenthairspa.com.

Katherine Gotthardt (kgotthardt@princewilliamliving.com) is an award-winning poetry and prose writer residing in western Prince William County where she serves as Editor in Chief for Prince William Living and President of Write by the Rails, the Prince William Chapter of the Virginia Writers Club. Learn more about her at KatherineGotthardt.com.

The environment is friendly, she says, like a family, “and that speaks to the staff being there so long.” prince william living April 2019

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family fun

Celebrate Earth Day Every Day

By Jennifer Halter

E

arth Day is on Monday, April 22, 2019, and is celebrated globally to bring awareness about the importance of caring for the environment. However, we don’t need a special day to do activities that help conserve and protect the Earth, so here is a list of some simple tasks you can do with the entire family to help with the cause:

At Home

Recycle. Create a system for recycling in your home.

Set up bins/boxes for the various items (plastic, glass, aluminum, etc.). Make this a fun craft project by allowing the kids to decorate and label the bins with items around the house, such as reusing a cereal box to create signs.

Conserve electricity. Encourage everyone in the family to be mindful of turning off lights when exiting a room.

Also, turn off and unplug electronics when not in use.

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Reduce food waste. Sometimes, this can be a difficult task if you have kids who are picky eaters! But you can help reduce waste by meal planning, only using ingredients you need and getting the kids involved.

Also, buy dry goods in bulk as it typically uses less packaging, and find ways to store and preserve food, such as freezing, canning or dehydrating. Getting creative with using leftovers can help reduce food waste and also help with your budget.

Use reusables. Instead of buying disposable cups, bags and utensils, invest in items that are reusable. Use a refillable water bottle for work or school. Look for mugs or tumblers that keep your beverage hot or cold, so you don’t need to use energy to reheat if needed. Use your own grocery totes when shopping. Many stores give you a credit for each bag of your own that you use.

Donate. Donate old clothes, shoes or other household items instead of disposing of them in the garbage. (continues on page 26)

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EARTH DAY (continued from page 24) If items are in poor condition and aren’t suitable for donating, repurpose them, if possible. Old t-shirts make great wash rags for household chores.

Outside

Organize or participate in a cleanup. Many neighborhoods and parks organize litter cleanups a few times each year. However, you don’t need to wait for one of these events to take place. You can take a walk around your own community and pick up trash, pull weeds and dispose of branches. Safety tip: Wear protective gloves, and if working near a road, wear a safety vest or bright clothing that allows drivers to see you.

Compost. Start a compost bin that you can use in your own garden or flowerbeds. You can purchase bins or make your own. The internet is full of ideas on how to get started.

Get a rain barrel. If you have space, rain barrels are a great way to conserve water and save on your monthly bill. Water collected in rain barrels can be used for watering lawns and plants and even washing your car.

Try alternative transportation. When possible, try to

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carpool, use public transportation, ride bikes or walk to your destination. This reduces fuel costs and reduces your carbon footprint by one pound for every mile you do not drive (Source: earthday.org).

Teaching our children about making small changes each day can have a huge impact on their future, so make it something they get excited about, and don’t see it as just another chore. Sing songs, be silly and let them get involved as much as possible in planning, preparing and executing all of your Earth Day Every Day ideas!

Jennifer Halter (jenniferh@macaronikid.com) is a contributing writer and the founder of Macaroni Kid in Woodbridge and Gainesville.

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home & hearth Housing Quirks – Character or Calamity?

By Prince William Living

D

oes your house “have character”? Most homes do, and many times, the homeowner views the quirks that make up that character as charming. But for homebuyers and others, these oddball traits could be perceived as more than just nuisances. One or more could prove to be a deficit or even a danger.

Sticky doors – When the humidity is high, wooden doors can swell and stick. A bit of elbow grease might help unstick the door from the floor, but don’t ignore it, or someone could wind up trapped. While such a situation could be just embarrassing, say for a guest in the bathroom, it could be dangerous in an emergency situation where a quick exit becomes a dire necessity.

Dumbwaiters and laundry chutes – Especially if you have an older home, you may have one or more of these conveniences in the kitchen or bedrooms. While they certainly come in handy even in this day, both can be awfully tempting places for toddlers to explore and children of all ages to hide. Particularly if you have younger children, be sure dumbwaiters are locked and laundry chutes are incapable of being opened. In some cases, this means sealing them entirely.

Odd electrical configurations – Plug in the vacuum and the breaker trips? Flip a switch inside and the porch light flickers?

Oddities like these might bring on poltergeist jokes, but they usually are signals of a larger electrical problem. Don’t plan to call in the Ghostbusters someday. Have an electrician come check the problem right away.

Appliance animal noises – Does your refrigerator sound like a bear growling? Does your dishwasher sound like a mewing cat?

While these noises might be amusing, appliances are expensive to replace, and the noises could signify a bigger problem, one that could cause a leak or fire. Have quirky appliances repaired right away. And if you do have to replace that banging dryer, be sure to buy a warranty or service plan of some kind.

Toilet troubles – If your toilet runs for hours or periodically won’t flush, you probably want to do everything in your power to fix and repair it before your home becomes a flood zone. Get toilets checked and remedy the quirk, preferably before the water bill comes in or the toilet water rushes out.

Leaky doors and windows – If your windows and doors have gaps and you can feel air rushing in, your dollars spent heating and cooling your home are also rushing out. In worse case instances, cold air can cause pipes to freeze and burst. Consider replacing windows, and make sure your doors have quality seals to keep your utility bills low and temperatures reasonable.

Don’t worry. Fixing problems like these won’t cause your home to lose character. It will increase its comfort, safety and value.

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local flavor

Okra’s

Cajun Creole A Beloved But Not-always-spicy Part of Manassas History

by Jane Fullerton Lemons | Photos by Mark Gilvey

W

hen Charles Gilliam set out to reinvent his business life, he chose a place steeped in history. That decision has contributed to the local flavor of Historic Manassas for the past 20 years, during which time he and the staff at Okra’s Cajun Creole Restaurant on Center Street have served locals and visitors alike Louisiana delicacies. It has proven to be time well spent.

Okra’s in Historic Manassas: Back in the Day It was a different era and a new cuisine for a Southern city 20 years ago. “Old Town Manassas was a bit of a ghost town, and we were a tiny business with tiny dreams,” Gilliam said. “Our initial goal was to make sure at least one guest came in every day, and we’ve met that goal for over twenty years now.”

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In October 1998, Okra’s doors opened in a building at the corner of Center and Battle streets that dates to 1903. Since then, it has grown into an anchoring business and become part of the beating heart of historic Old Town’s entertainment district, where foodies and families gather for authentic Cajun and Okra's owner Charles Gilliam (L) with Creole dishes served with Manager Deonte Davis (R)

Dinning in at Okra's you will be surrounded by Louisiana charm.

The Tabasco Mixed Grill is one of many signature dishes on Okra's menu.

a dash of Southern charm — and perhaps a classic libation.

Okra’s Present and Future in Historic Manassas

“I believe Okra’s is the Old Town Manassas vibe,” Gilliam said.

“We are good people doing good things and have become a cornerstone of downtown Manassas.”

Cajun Cuisine in Manassas?

Growing up in Kentucky, Gilliam — who got his start in the restaurant business at 16 as a potato washer for Ponderosa Steakhouse — learned to appreciate Southern hospitality. The Cajun cuisine of Louisiana, with its rich history and culture, is part of that, he said.

According to Gilliam, it was one of his two founding partners, one who had been a chef in New Orleans, who “sold us on the idea that America was ready for Cajun food, whether they knew it or not.”

Gilliam’s partner was right. The food proved to be wildly popular. “Just give me three hours to talk to you about it,” he said. “The more you know about it, the better it is. The flavors are robust and complex. The textures and presentation will win you over.”

Gilliam loves to dispel the notion that all Cajun food is spicy.

“That couldn’t be farther from the truth,” he said. He even took time to note it on the restaurant’s website, explaining the history of Cajun cooking and listing dishes that are not inherently spicy, such as crawfish etouffee and shrimp creole.

Other popular dishes include alligator, oysters, jambalaya, gumbo, red beans and rice, and shrimp and grits. There also are “po boy” sandwiches and homemade desserts, along with glutenfree and vegetarian options.

Through the years, Okra’s has evolved, adding an outdoor patio and a private banquet room that has its own show kitchen. It’s a popular spot for get-togethers ranging from business meetings to rehearsal dinners and holiday parties.

Okra’s also works to support the local community and other local businesses. The restaurant collaborated with BadWolf Brewing Company to create a special Okra’s beer. It also launched a chef competition to help raise money for local charities.

Going forward, Gilliam and his wife, Cristina, are looking at more venues to expand the Okra’s brand. Working with sons Austin and Mason, they also are in the early stages of producing spice assortments and mixes, sauces and other products for limited distribution.

“The most important thing is that, although we evolve, we don’t change our values and our mission,” Gilliam said. “The latest trend or fad holds no interest for us. We know who we are, and we’re happy to continuously bring the same level of excellence day after day and year after year.”

Jane Fullerton Lemons (jlemons@princewilliamliving.com) is a freelance writer and journalist. A longtime resident of Prince William County, she holds an MFA from Goucher College. Follow her work at janefullertonlemons.com and on Instagram.

prince william living April 2019

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your finances Buying a Second Home?

By Bennett Whitlock, CRPC® Private Wealth Advisor

M

any people dream of having a second place to call home.

While this may make sense, purchasing a second home is a major decision that can impact your financial situation for years. Here are some questions to consider.

1. What is your primary purpose for the home?

If you envision the home as a second family space, is it a good lifestyle fit? Are you still working and won’t use it often? Then, expense and upkeep may be hard to justify. If you’re retired or planning to retire, the purchase may be more worthwhile.

If you’re renting the home out, will potential income make it a good investment? Or is this a property needing improvement, one you hope to sell for profit?

2. What is your financial ability to carry a second mortgage?

If you need a second mortgage, will it create cashflow risks, especially if you have a mortgage on your primary residence or are close to or in retirement? Taking on debt carries risk regardless of your financial position. If you can afford to pay cash, is this the most effective use of your funds compared to other investing alternatives?

3. Is the home located where you want to be?

Be certain the location is appealing. If you’re looking for a warm weather getaway, will the home meet your needs?

If you’re considering renting out the property, will it attract renters at a price that makes it a worthwhile investment?

4. Are you prepared for the extra expenses?

Beyond the purchase and mortgage, prepare to duplicate expenses of your first home, such as utilities, maintenance, etc. If the second home isn’t local, consider the cost of hiring professionals to help manage it. You also might need a tax advisor to assess tax implications.

5. How does the purchase fit within your overall financial plan?

Perhaps the most critical question is what your purchase means for your comprehensive financial plan. Does purchasing a second home fit your overall strategy, helping you achieve your primary goals – or at least not detract from achieving them? Talk with your financial advisor before you make a decision.

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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April 2019 prince william living

POWER YOU CAN TRUST The most reliable electric service in the region.

Electricity from multiple renewable sources.

Convenient 24/7 online services.

Power You Can Trust

prince william living April 2019

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calendar Prince William Living Presents Breakfast with an Expert Thurs. Apr. 4 | 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.

Potomac Nationals vs.

Fayetteville Woodpeckers

Thurs. Apr. 4 | 7:05 p.m.

Northwest Federal Field at Pfitzner Stadium 7 County Complex Court, Woodbridge Exciting Carolina League baseball action in Woodbridge as the Potomac Nationals kick off their 36th and final season in Prince William County. For more information and tickets, visit milb.com/Potomac.

April First Friday: A Costume Event

april

Fri. Apr. 5 | 6–9 p.m.

Historic Downtown Manassas It’s a Game of Thrones inspired costume event! Located in Historic Downtown Manassas, this event will feature a costume contest, live sword fighting demonstrations and training, hair braiding, DIY crafts, photo opportunities, food, wine, mead, ale, acts & performances, costume vendors, and special activities and sales at participating merchant locations.

Dance Night at the Candy Factory

Fri, Apr. 5 | 7–9 p.m.

Center for the Arts at the Candy Factory 9419 Battle Street, Manassas Celebrate Hispanic and Latino contributions to our community with music and dance and get a sneak peek at the upcoming Manassas Museum exhibit Expanding Boundaries: Celebrating Traditions, Shaping the Future.

4th Annual Special Needs Easter Egg Hunt

Sat. Apr. 6 | 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

BrightCare Center 7845 Ashton Avenue, Manassas Face painting, dance and music, arts and craft stations, pictures with Easter Bunny, and Easter Egg Hunt with over 2000 Easter eggs! Lunch provided by Dave’s Dogs food truck.

The Seldom Scene

Sat. Apr. 6 | 8 p.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas Sometimes irreverent, always entertaining, The Seldom Scene makes a long-awaited Hylton Center debut with their signature sound that has led to an international following and helped launch the progressive bluegrass movement. Tickets: hyltoncenter.org.

Quantico Creek Cleanup

Sat. Apr. 13 | 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Jeff Simpson Community & Cultural Arts Center 17757 Main Street, Dumfries This cleanup is great for the environment; it’s educational and fun too. Kids love to get involved. Cleanup supplies will be provided. This event is rain or shine so dress accordingly. It’s a good idea to wear boots. For more information call 703-221-3400 or email yragland@dumfriesva.gov. Breakfast goodies, drinks and lunch will be provided.

Washington D.C. Happy Hour 5K Run

Sat. Apr. 13 | 3–8 p.m.

Prince William County Fairgrounds 10624 Dumfries Road, Manassas You must be 21 or over to participate.

There’s a happy hour with beer, wine, and margaritas after the race. Tickets: eventbrite.com/e/washington-dc-5khappy-hour-run-tickets

Bluebell Festival at Merrimac Farm

Sun. Apr. 14 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Merrimac Farm Wildlife Management Area 15020 Deepwood Lane, Nokesville

Celebrate nature with a view of the area’s largest patch of Virginia Bluebells, carpeting the Cedar Run shoreline for nearly a mile. Local naturalists will be leading tours and activities throughout the day.

Pet Photos with the Easter Bunny

Sun. Apr. 14 | 7 p.m.

Potomac Mills 2700 Potomac Mills Circle, Suite 307, Woodbridge Bring your furry friend for photos with the Easter Bunny on Sunday, April 14, from 7 to 8p.m.

Spring Break Boredom Busters

Mon. Apr. 15 | 1–3 p.m.

Tues. April 16 | 1–3 p.m.

Wed. April 17 | 1–3 p.m.

The Weems-Botts Museum & Annex 3944 Cameron Street, Dumfries Looking for something fun to do during Spring Break? Come visit us at the Weems-Botts Museum Annex and learn about colonial history through hands-on activities. Each day will feature a different theme and activity. You can sign up for your favorite activity or all three! $10/child per da7; $25 for all three days. For ages 8-12. Email info@ historicdumfriesva.org to register.

Festival of Spring at Burnside Farms

Begins Mon. Apr. 15; daily through May 31 Burnside Farms 10800 Kettle Run Road, Nokesville Burnside Farm’s Festival of Spring is a unique, magical event that’s fun for the whole family. More than eight acres of spring flowers are planted for one of the most spectacular pick-your-own events in North America. More than a million tulips and daffodils in bloom! Exact timing is very hard to predict as these flowers bloom according to the spring weather patterns and Mother Nature is in charge of that. Check their Facebook page (facebook.com/burnsidefarms) is strongly advised before planning a visit.

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

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April 2019 prince william living

Making the Most of Prince William Living

Wed. Apr. 17 | 11:30 a.m.

NOW ONLINE 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.

RSVP at princewilliamliving.com/ lunchwiththepublisher.

Eggstravaganza at Ben Lomond

Sat. Apr. 20 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Ben Lomond Historic Site and Old Rose Garden 10311 Sudley Manor Drive, Manassas Join Ben Lomond Historic Site for a special Eggstravagazna celebration!

Throughout the day, make some new animal friends, enjoy historic, hands-on activities, kid friendly games and crafts, and more! Egg Hunts will be will be separated by age groups. Find the golden egg and win a special prize! Please make sure to bring your own basket for egg collecting. Admission is $5 per child, $2 per adult. Children 2 and under are free.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please call 703-367-7872.

2019 Peep Show

Sat. Apr. 20 | 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Historic Occoquan Stroll through town looking at amazing whimsical scenes made by shop owners using marshmallow Peeps!

Annual Easter Egg Hunt

Sat. Apr. 20 | 2:30–2:45 p.m.

Leesylvania State Park 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Drive, Woodbridge Hunt for prize-filled Easter eggs. Kids can color eggs, play games and make crafts.

Learn about the history of the Easter egg and why it became a holiday tradition.

For more information, please call (703) 583-6904.

One Love: Celebration of

Life with the Arts

Fri. Apr. 26 | 6–10 p.m.

Sat. April 27 | 10 a.m.–10 p.m.

Sun. April 28 | 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Historic Downtown Manassas One Love is a transformative three-day multimedia art event that is a celebration of life and our diverse artistic community.

The event is designed to give artists a platform to perform, share and leverage their art to the betterment of the community, while raising awareness and inspiring hope for the love of all artistic platforms.

Manassas Reads Community Book Festival

Sat. Apr. 27 | 9 a.m.–2 p.m.

Harris Pavilion 9201 Center Street, Manassas The City of Manassas, Manassas City Public Schools and the Prince William Public Library System will host Manassas Reads. This is a reading and book giveaway event designed to share the joy of reading with the community. This event features free books for all ages, local celebrity readers, local authors, reading activities, crafts, face painting, a photo booth, live music and more. At last year’s Manassas Reads event, more than 6,000 books were given away to participants. Books are available in both English and Spanish.

Officer Down Memorial Ride

Sat. Apr. 27 | 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

QBE Business Park 14604 Washington Street, Haymarket Sponsored by the Officer Down Memorial Page (odmp.org), this event brings together hundreds of law enforcement motorcycle enthusiasts and supporters from around the country to pay tribute to America’s fallen heroes and raise awareness of line of duty deaths nationally. Visit officerdownmemorialride.com for more details.

Designed for students of all ages, the event features hands-on exhibits and workshops from NOVA faculty, local schools, and community groups, food, fun, and learning! Free and open to the public; some activities will have limited seating.

Brentsville Courthouse’s 2nd Annual Art n’ the Car Festival

Sat. Apr. 27 | 11 a.m.–4 p.m.

Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre 12229 Bristow Road, Bristow Enjoy the scenic setting alongside great cars of yesteryear (cars, trucks & motorcycles) and the art of local artists and Prince William County students. Try your hand at making your own art. There will be local art vendors and the Historic Courthouse will be open for self-guided tours. Grab some lunch from the food truck or pack a picnic, and plan to enjoy the day!

Coastal Shore Guided Hike

Sat. Apr. 27 | 11 a.m.–1:15 p.m.

Leesylvania State Park 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Drive, Woodbridge Are you new to the area or simply would like to know more about where you live?

Try our 3.5-mile Coastal Shore Guided Hike to learn about the park’s history and that of Northern Virginia. Please call the Visitor Center to register 24 hours in advance at 703-583-6904.

NOVA STEM Day

Sat. Apr. 27 | 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Northern Virginia Community College 10950 Campus Drive, Manassas NOVA STEM Day at the Manassas Campus will provide youth with a showcase of opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math.

prince william living April 2019

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We bring the fun to you!

Pony Rides Petting Zoo Ice Cream Truck

COMMUNITY DAY PROGRAM FOR SPECIAL NEEDS YOUTH Day Program - After School Program Summer Camp - Winter Camp

Family owned and operated for 20 years!

571-283-2408 • poniesplus.org

703-330-5836 | brightcarecenter.org

Nar Shalome To Come

703-330-8145 www.casacis.org

www.actspwc.org 703-441-8606

ACHIEVE WITH US!

Volunteers Needed!

Contact us to see how you can make a difference in our community!

Committed to providing opportunities for persons with developmental disabilities to achieve their greatest potential growth and independence.

www.arcgpw.org 703-670-4800

Vintage Moving & Storage Moving Your Life’s Treasures

Vintage

M

703.392.6260 www.vintagemoving.com

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April 2019 prince william living

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To continue to receive these issues monthly, please consider a subscription of $20 a year. That small investment will ensure that you will stay up-to-date with all of the articles, events and tips that make living in Prince William great.

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prince william living April 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