Prince William Living March 2011

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HISTORIC OCCOQUAN

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ERIN GO BRAGH

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IF YOU BUILD IT...

prince william living March 2011

The premiere lifestyle magazine of Prince William and Greater Manassas

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Party Into Spring PAGE 6

Refund, Anyone? www.princewilliamliving.com

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table of contents March 2011 Vol. 1 No. 3

FEATURES Party Into Spring ..................................................4 Refund, Anyone?....................................................6

DEPARTMENTS

4

from the publisher..................................................3 destinations Historic Occoquan A Quaint Town Offering Shopping, Dining and More ..................................................10 family fun Erin go Bragh Manassas St. Patrick’s Day Parade Scheduled for March 12 ........................................13 local flavor Mardi Gras All Year Okra’s Cajun Creole serves a New Orlean’s Atmosphere and Terrific Alligator Bites....................16

18

giving back If You Build It...

More than 25 Years after their Founding, Project Mend-A-House Still in Full Swing..........................18 going places e Tae Kwon Do Kid..........................................20 on a high note Dance As if No One Were Watching ....................22 tambourines and elephants en ere Was. ..................................................26 calendar ..............................................................27

20

distribution sites ................................................29 Photos courtesy Jonathan Thorpe. www.jthorpephoto.com

prince william living March 2011 | 1

The premiere lifestyle magazine of Prince William and Greater Manassas

Prince William Living Editor in Chief and Publisher Elizabeth Kirkland ekirkland@princewilliamliving.com Prince William Living President Rebecca Barnes rbarnes@princewilliamliving.com Contributing Writers Jennifer Rader, Casey Rives, Andrea M. Saccoccia and DeeDee Corbitt Sauter Copy Assistant Marya Wright Unrath Photography Rebecca Barnes, Jeremy Kirkland Jeff Owen, Zack Owen and Jonathan orpe Graphic Design and Production Alison Dixon/Image Prep Studio Senior Advertising Account Executive Eileen Classick-Terry Prince William Living, the premiere lifestyle magazine of Prince William and Greater Manassas, is published monthly by Prince William Living, Inc. e opinions expressed in the magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Prince William Living. © Copyright 2011 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.

Subscription rate is $12 (U.S.), one year. International subscribers add $12 each year. Change of address notices should be sent to Prince William Living President Rebecca Barnes.

Reprints and Back Issues: To order article reprints or request reprint permission, please visit the Prince William Living website: www.princewilliamliving.com. Order back issues by calling Prince William Living President Rebecca Barnes at (703) 232-1758, ext. 1.

For further information about Prince William Living, visit www.princewilliamliving.com, or contact Prince William Living at (703) 232-1758.

2 | March 2011 prince william living

Prince William Living 4491 Cheshire Station Plaza, PMB 55 Dale City, VA 22193 Phone: (703) 232-1758 Efax: (703) 563-9185 Editorial offices: (703) 232-1758, ext. 2 Efax: (703) 563-9185 Advertising offices: (703) 232-1758, ext. 1 Efax: (703) 563-9185 Editorial Have a story you’d like our staff to cover? Contact Prince William Living Editor in Chief and Publisher Elizabeth Kirkland, either by phone at (703) 232-1758, ext. 2, or by email at ekirkland@princewilliamliving.com.

Advertising Prince William Living accepts display advertising.

For complete advertising information, please contact Rebecca Barnes, Prince William Living president, either by phone at (703) 232-1758, ext. 1, or by email at rbarnes@princewilliamliving.com.

Distribution If you are your business’ decision maker and you have a waiting room or other place your customers and employees would appreciate finding a copy of Prince William Living, please call Prince William Living President Rebecca Barnes and ask about how your business can become a free distribution site for Prince William Living. Rebecca can be reached by phone at (703) 232-1758, ext. 1, or by email at rbarnes@princewilliamliving.com. By becoming a distributor of Prince William Living, your business will be mentioned on the Prince William Living website and in future issues of Prince William Living.

Social Media

Prince William Living can be found on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

from the publisher Prince William Keeps Growing, and Growing…

i

n case you missed it, on the front page of the Feb. 7 Washington Post, there was an article by Brigid Schulte titled, “Va.’s growth plows over country life.” e subheading of that article: “In a flash, a quiet corner of Pr. William becomes a suburban melting pot.” e article is referring to Prince William’s Linton Hall community, which added 27,000 residents during that time span. at’s a population increase of 314 percent.

So, if you feel like more buildings have gone up in recent years, it’s probably because they have. In fact, according to the U.S. Census, between 2000 and 2010, Northern Virginia’s population grew 24 percent, with Loudoun County leading the charge with a whopping 84.1 percent population increase, followed by Prince William at 43 percent, and Fauquier and Fairfax counties with 18 and 11 percent increases, respectively. e population explosion in Prince William County puts it among the top five fastest growing counties in Virginia. In fact, the county is now home to more than 402,000 residents, according to the latest Census numbers. e other three top growing counties in Virginia: Chesterfield, with a population of 316,236, which represents a 21.7 percent increase; and Henrico, with a population of 306,935, a 17 percent increase.

Park since 1984 by soliciting the skills of volunteer carpenters, plumbers, electricians, painters, gardeners, and others, and matching them with people in need of minor home repairs and safety modifications.

You’ll find all of this and so much more in this issue of Prince William Living, but if you don’t find what you’re looking for in our print issue, maybe you’ll find it on our newly designed website, at www.princewilliamliving.com.

In the meantime, welcome your new neighbors to your neck o’ the woods, and tell them to fan us on Facebook. We can also be found on Twitter and LinkedIn. Happy Spring!

Elizabeth Kirkland Prince William Living Editor in Chief and Publisher

is just goes to show you that, as I said in my January Letter from the Publisher, we Prince William and Greater Manassas residents deserve our own magazine.

I hope you enjoyed the January and February issues of Prince William Living. I think that the March issue will be just as enjoyable for you. In this month’s issue, we’ll show you how to throw one heck of a party, and we’ll tell you about two of the best holidays celebrated this month: Mardi Gras and St. Patrick’s Day. ere’s definitely no shortage of things to do this month in Prince William and Greater Manassas, and we’ll tell you all about what’s going on in this month’s Prince William Living.

Advertiser’s Index

In this month’s issue, you’ll read about how an 11-year-old Woodbridge boy is making a name for himself in the Korean martial art of Tae Kwon Do, as well as about how to prepare your taxes. You’ll also find out how sisters Alannah Boyle Sweeney and Ellen Boyle Gibbons founded the Boyle School of Irish Dance.

Darby Brooke Nutrition................................................28

Our Local Flavor this month is about Okra’s Cajun Creole restaurant in Manassas, which has brought a little bit of Louisiana to Prince William. Our Destination for March is the Town of Occoquan, where you can find restaurants, shopping and a great view all in one place. Giving Back this month focuses on Project Mend-A-House—a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which has been serving the low-income residents of Prince William County, the City of Manassas, and Manassas

Minnieland......................................................................9

Adco ..............................................................................28 Bargain Relo ................................................................28 CAP Accounting, LLC ..................................................29

Peggy and Bill Burke, Long & Foster Realtors ..........25 Lustine Automall ..............................Inside Front Cover

Potomac Place ................................................................9 Prince William Chamber of Commerce ......................12 Statements Salon ..........................................Back Cover

prince william living March 2011 | 3

PARTY Into Spring t

By Casey Rives, Contributing Writer

he cold winter has come to an end and the month of March has brought with it the growth of flowers, the presence of singing birds and the perfect atmosphere for a spring party.

After being stuck inside for the past few months, everyone is excited to be up and out with spring fever. And what better way to celebrate the reprieve from cold weather than by throwing a party?

Parties come and go but the goal is to create a party that leaves each guest with everlasting memories.

Planning the Party “e biggest secret to a great party is to have fun!” said Brenda Rivera, owner of Gainesville-based Creations by Brenda. An event planner since 1997, Rivera moved her business from New Jersey 4 | March 2011 prince william living

to Gainesville in 2005. She has won the Bride’s Choice Award from www.weddingwire.com for the past two years.

Hiring an event planner is a great way to get started with a memorable spring party. Not only can a planner save you money but they take on the stress of preparation—which leaves the “having fun” to you and your guests. “e most important thing to remember when hiring a planner is to find someone that you’re compatible with,” said Rivera. “It’s important to have a person who understands your vision and someone you feel comfortable with.”

Creations by Brenda offers planning services for birthdays, weddings and everything in between.

“We can help you tweak the last minute details or completely plan the whole event,” said Rivera. “From my experience, you won’t have fun if you are stressing over all the details. How can

you enjoy yourself if you’re worrying about every little thing? And if you don’t have fun, your guests won’t have fun.”

Rivera believes that for a good party, food, drinks and music are a must.

“You need enough food to satisfy hunger, drinks to quench thirst and music for atmosphere or dancing all night,” said Rivera. “It doesn’t matter whether it’s a small get-together at your home with music on an iPod, sushi and wine, or an elaborate reception with full dinner, open bar and an amazing band, all parties need to have those elements.”

Food A backyard cookout is a great way to satisfy the need for a spring fling party. A few picnic tables, a cooler of drinks and traditional menu items like burgers and hotdogs are a great way to welcome spring.

Don’t feel like cooking for your guests? Consider catering services to entice your guest’s taste buds.

summer vacation is near—so why not bring an early vacation to your party?

Kitchen Gourmet & A Company of Caterers in Woodbridge offers an extensive selection of high-quality food.

Ace High Entertainment, of Manassas, can turn an ordinary party into a casino-like vacation. Imagine turning an ordinary backyard into a Las Vegas experience or turning a rented party room into a high-class casino.

“Basically from the simple overstuffed sandwich to the upscale wedding reception—we do it all and we really care about what we do,” said Sue Moss, owner and vice president of Kitchen Gourmet.

Kitchen Gourmet has introduced a new addition to their food selection with Shawn’s Smokehouse Barbeque—perfect for those spring cookouts.

“Our barbeque offers anything from a succulent whole pig to tender and juicy smoked beef brisket, hand pulled chicken or pork and amazing ribs all with a selection of homemade sauces,” said Moss.

Moss and her partners keep their clients’ goals in mind when creating an event. Catering services can be provided for parties of 10 to as many as 5,000. And the services they provide are many.

“We can provide servers, bartenders, managers, china, flatware, glassware, linens, basic centerpieces, tables and chairs,” said Moss.

“We offer all types of non alcoholic and alcoholic beverages as we do have a Virginia ABC license.”

Catering services are not only for elaborate parties, though. A variety of options exist for simple as well as extravagant gettogethers. And it’s a great way to reduce the stress of party preparation. Knowing you’ll leave the cleanup in the hands of someone else gives you more time to enjoy everything.

Entertainment So the party is set with friends, great food and music but how much fun can standing around be? For a great party, remember to incorporate some type of entertainment.

Spring is a time to relax while keeping in mind the idea that

“We offer all games found in the real casinos and offer trained dealers, some who have worked in the real thing,” said John yson, managing general partner of Ace High Entertainment.

“Year in and year out, casino themed parties are the most parties held. Why? It’s because there is something mystifying about casinos. Ordinary folk get to feel like royalty or James Bond.”

While parties are generally set up in hotels or convention areas, Ace High Entertainment is flexible and their equipment can fit into virtually any open area.

“We specialize in corporate casino events, but on the smaller scale, we do individual parties for birthdays and even a couple for bridal receptions,” said yson.

Fake money is given to each guest and games generally run in a three-hour time limit but can go on longer. A casino themed party is a great way to guarantee your get together is a real “winner.”

“Where else can you lose thousands of dollars and not really care?” asked yson.

Location While spring parties can be held nicely outside with an “at-home” atmosphere, rented locations can guarantee your party won’t get rained out. e Continental Event Center in Manassas opened in April 2010 and offers 11,000 square feet of event space. Rooms can be merged or separated to accommodate the size of each party. (continues on page 13) prince william living March 2011 | 5

Refund, Anyone? e Early Bird Gets the Worm When it Comes to Financial Planning

By Casey Rives, Contributing Writer

t

his time of the year means that rushing could cost you— literally. April 15, 2011 is the income tax filing deadline.

Preparing your taxes in advance is a wise decision and can guarantee a correct refund.

“Last year, I got my taxes back and realized I owed money instead of receiving a refund,” said Holley Cooper, of Nokesville. “I realized I had incorrectly filled out my tax forms and that was probably one of the worst feelings.”

Cooper was able to adjust her refund by filing a 1040X amendment form. (These forms can be found online and through the IRS at www.irs.gov.)

Amendment forms are used to adjust missed income, tax deductions, or tax credits. If a W-2 is simply incorrect due to math errors, the IRS will correct the appropriate areas and notify individuals through mail so amendment forms do not have to be used.

6 | March 2011 prince william living

Hire a Financial Advisor When trying to avoid refund errors, tax-filers are highly recommended to seek help from a financial advisor.

“An advisor can help their clients see the big picture by putting together all of their financial decisions and showing how each decision affects other areas of their financial lives,” said Donna Wood, CPA and CFP at Wood Smith Associates in Haymarket.

Cash income and spending are only a few areas of interest that financial advisors look into when discussing a client’s financial decisions.

“Financial planning links areas such as saving and investing, taxes, education, and retirement,” said Wood. “By seeing how each financial decision affects the whole picture, clients can consider the short- and long-term effects on their life goals.”

Life goals change throughout time and financial plans are suggested to be updated annually or when life changing events take place.

While some may seek a financial advisor for suggestions on how to start a college savings plan or what insurance policy is best suited for each individual, others may be heading a different route.

“For those who are already in the retirement phase of their lives, planning may help to ensure that their money will last as long as they live. They may be interested in estate planning and charitable pursuits,” explained Wood.

Types of Tax Filers According to Wood’s partner, Susan Smith, CPA, there are mainly four types of individual tax filers: ■ ■ ■ ■

Single Married filing jointly Married filing separately Head of household

“Each type of taxpayer uses (their) own tax rate schedule when computing tax liability,” said Smith. “A dependent is anyone for whom the taxpayer provided more than 50 percent of his or her support. Most of the time a dependent is a child under 24 and still in school or a parent.” According to the IRS, a person can claim a parent as a dependent if the parent earns less than $3,200 in taxable income and the person provides more than half of the parent's financial support.

Attention Students It is important to keep track of all costs associated with schooling.

Money spent on books, courses and other materials can qualify you for a refund.

If you are still claimed as a dependent, your qualifying parent can claim these expenses to maximize their refund.

“Depending on the complexity of their tax returns, people should be aware of what tax laws may affect them,” said Wood. “For example, if they have made energy saving improvements to their homes, they may qualify for a tax credit this year.” Changes in tax laws have affected many, including the following: ■ Self-employed individuals ■ Those who purchase new homes ■ Individuals with hybrid vehicles To maximize your refund, it is wise to consult with a CPA throughout the year and especially during tax time. Tax laws change often and it is important to recognize which ones may affect your refund.

“Many people are unaware of the tax law changes Congress passed during the year, and how those changes may affect their income tax return,” said Smith. “As a result, many individuals miss legiti-

For students filling taxes or parents who claim a student as a dependent, a new credit has been established.

According to IRS website, the American Opportunity Tax Credit can be claimed for tuition expenses in regard to higher education opportunities. The credit has recently been expanded to include “course materials.” This means that money spent on books or equipment for courses can be claimed as well.

Increase Your Refund With the recent economic situation within America, many individuals have been left unemployed or under-employed.

“Refunds are directly related to the total tax liability and the amount of withholding from W-2 or other income-reporting documents,” said Wood. “The fact that many people are unemployed means that they may have a smaller tax liability than in previous years.”

Despite this recent decline in the economy, there are still ways to increase your refund.

(continues on page 8)

prince william living March 2011 | 7

(continued from page 7) mate deductions or tax credits to which they are entitled, which could affect their tax bill.”

E-Filing Many companies offer an option to use an electronic filing system when filing taxes. However, many individuals may feel uncomfortable putting such vital information on a computer or online through different services. Is e-filing the way to go?

“The IRS sent out an email to tax preparers after last filing season with the statistics on electronic filing,” said Smith. “It showed that 70 percent of tax filings were electronically submitted and almost a third of those were submitted from home computers using software such as TurboTax.” Electronic filing is the preferred method of filing as it serves as a fast and secure way for the IRS to examine your claims.

“E-filing is secure and more accurately processed by the IRS than paper filed returns,” said Wood. “There are instances where an individual may be required to submit a paper return, but that is a rare occurrence.”

Companies such as H&R BLOCK offer online filing services.

Customers can choose a product of e-filing which best suits their needs: ■ Free Edition ■ Basic—simple tax situations

Save on Your Groceries About 30 percent of an average American household’s monthly budget is spent on food, so it is important to plan carefully when entering the grocery store.

■ Avoid prepackaged foods. While already prepared food may save time, they often exceed the cost of individual ingredients.

■ Stock up on coupons. Clipping coupons can make a huge dent in your grocery bill. You can find coupons online as well as in your Sunday newspaper supplement. Printable coupon sites include www.coupons.com and www.smartsource.com.

■ Use care at the warehouse store. Buying in bulk doesn’t always translate to savings. Do not fall into the trap of buying more than you need, or you may end up throwing away much of your “bargain purchase.”

This financial tip provided by Wood Smith Associates.

8 | March 2011 prince william living

■ Deluxe—homeowners/investors ■ Premium—self-employed “We guarantee our products,” said Michael, a customer service representative for H&R Block’s customer service helpline. “For our H&R Block At Home Online Products, we promise accurate calculations and maximized refunds.”

In fact, H&R Block will reimburse any IRS penalties and interest charges that resulted from any miscalculations.

In addition, according to their website, the company’s “Maximum Refund Guarantee” will refund any fees paid to H&R Block if a customer can find another online tax preparation method that results in a larger tax refund.

H&R Block offers constant tax-preparation advice. Customers can blog about their experience and talk with other members about filing taxes. The company’s website offers tax tips and calculator services which are guaranteed to maximize a customer’s refund.

“We guarantee everything because we believe our services will serve you perfectly,” explained Michael. “The best thing about our services is we are available to help you 24/7. If you can’t find your answer through our website, then you are able to call our customer service helpline.”

E-filing at home can be easy; however, it is still wise to consult with a financial advisor in advance.

Save Money in the New Year “Tax planning is the key to potential tax savings, as many of the provisions passed in the 2010 tax laws affect future years,” explained Wood. If work status, income level or number of dependents changes throughout the year, a CPA should be contacted so you can become aware of any potential impact.

Once a tax return is received, the question for many people becomes “what will you spend it on.” However, it is important to be wise with the return money and to use the refund appropriately.

“Some people use the tax withholding system as a form of ‘savings’ account, and they feel a big refund is their reward,” said Smith.

“However, if they have been living on credit all year long and then get this big check from the government, have they made the right choices? A tax refund represents an interest-free loan that you have made to the government.”

A better alternative to receiving a large refund, suggested by Wood Smith Associates, is to adjust the withholding amount downward so the extra money is seen in your paycheck every payday.

“If you do get a refund and you have a credit card balance, you can use the refund to pay that down,” said Wood. “The interest paid to credit card companies is not tax deductible, so the lower the amount paid to them—the better.”

Be Informed

Important Tax Credits 1. Earned Income Credit: A refundable credit for certain people who work and have earned income from wages or self employment.

2. The Child and Dependent Care Credit: A credit for expenses paid for the care of your qualifying children.

3. Child Tax Credit: Credit for people who have a child that qualifies as a dependent. This tax credit can be claimed in addition to the Child and Dependent Care Credit.

4. The Retirement Savings Contributions Credit: This credit helps low- or moderate-income workers save for retirement.

5. Health Coverage Tax Credit: This credit is to help insurance premiums and can pay up to 80 percent of premiums, depending on qualifications.

Information provided by H&R Block. More information about these tax credits can be found online at www.IRS.gov.

“If not using the services of a CPA, read as much as possible about tax law changes. One of the best places to search is the IRS website,� said Wood. “When preparing your own return, download the Form 1040 instructions, as there is an entire page or two on the changes for 2010. These instructions include detailed information for the 1040 and all related schedules.�

The goals during tax season are simple: â– â– â– â–

Be aware of changes Note all tax credits Maximize your refund Spend your refund wisely

Consulting with a CPA is always a great first step in the sometimes complicated process of preparing taxes.

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Writer Casey Rives, who resides in Haymarket, Va., is a communications major at George Mason University. Her expected graduation date is December 2011.

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prince william living March 2011 | 9

destinations

Historic Occoquan

By Jennifer Rader, Contributing Writer

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any people across Prince William County and beyond recognize Occoquan as a quaint town on the river that has a massive arts and crafts festival twice a year. But how many come back on a monthly or even weekly trek to experience this eclectic destination and the magnitude of what it has to offer? e Town of Occoquan was founded in 1734 as a trading post that became a bustling business center with a focus on river-related commerce. An immense fire in 1916 left only the foundations of a majority of the 18th and 19th century buildings. A few originals remain like the Rockledge Mansion built in 1758 by industrialist, John Ballandine. is Georgian residence now hosts special events, weddings and community events. e Mill House across the street from the Rockledge Mansion was part of the original gristmill that operated from 1759 until 1924 when a utility fire destroyed the larger portion of the mill. e Mill House now houses the Occoquan Historical Society’s Mill House Museum. e final survivor of the 1916 fire was the Hammill Hotel at 206 Union Street. e oldest brick structure in town, the hotel served as Confederate headquarters during the Civil War and is now home to Lil’ Bit of Posh, a woman’s accessory and custom jewelry retailer. With the foundations still available, the buildings were rebuilt; some maintained similar historical facades while others were completely transformed.

10 | March 2011 prince william living

A walk through Occoquan’s history gives the impression that the focus on commerce has changed but never disappeared entirely. All roads and activity still lead to the waterfront, with construction, expansion and improvements continuing to this day. A current major project will provide two extensions of the riverwalk; one will reach out to the east under the Route 123 bridge with construction to begin this spring. Another will lengthen the riverwalk west to the end of Mill Street at the Mill House Museum. Occoquan’s mayor, Earnie Porta, Jr., states, “e latter is a long-term project for which we will soon begin raising funds.”

Occoquan is a microcosm of its historical roots and importance in American history that moves comfortably among contemporary housing complexes and businesses of diverse personality.

Up and down the streets, Victorian, Georgian and Arts and Crafts architectural styles can be found. Porta believes that, at least from the time of the 1916 fire, the town was largely unplanned, accounting for its diversity. But it’s this diversity that gives the town the right amount of character that is engaging.

Historic Occoquan’s events also represent the old and new. Historical reenactment events may be found in the same month as the Occoquan River Conservation Day or the Art Walk. e town continues to host a highly popular spring and fall craft

Photo courtesy Jeremy Kirkland

A Quaint Town Offering Shopping, Dining and More

show. A Saturday morning farmer’s market kicks off in April and goes until early November. Growers from a 120-mile radius are invited to sell a wide variety of produce and goods. Another popular attraction is the Historical Occoquan Ghost Tour. e onehour guided tour is available most Friday and Saturday evenings beginning at 7 p.m. Twenty-two historical sites are highlighted, with 11 said to be the homes or roaming places of ghosts.

e Town of Occoquan continues to show innovation meeting history. e town has several historical markers and register plaques throughout its streets, buildings and significant sites. ese markers can become expensive and information can change as more facts are uncovered. e town has recently begun testing the use of Quick Response barcodes to enhance independent historical tours while maintaining information and containing costs. People using smartphones will have the ability to upload a free application (app) that connects to the town’s website. e information will be loaded onto the website and will correspond to the barcodes posted at the various sites in town.

Smartphones can then scan the barcode through its camera and information will be provided on their phone. Updates can be made easily through the website saving several thousand dollars to maintain Occoquan’s historical integrity. Currently four barcodes have been placed at designated sites.

And Occoquan continues to foster commerce. While not industrial, the more than 100 specialty shops serve a diverse clientele and purpose. Occoquan can be considered a one-stop gift shopping experience. From art galleries of various mediums to wine shops, jewelers, specialty accessories and home décor, it’s tough to leave empty-handed. ere’s no need to leave town for lunch or dinner either, since there are 11 cafés and restaurants to satisfy most culinary wishes. An active and organized Occoquan Merchant’s Association (OMA) represents the businesses in town. e OMA exists to welcome new businesses to the close-knit community. ey pull together for advertising purposes and create a common representative voice of the multi-faceted town.

Kristyn Gleason, president of OMA and co-owner of Polka Dot Divas, located at 416 Mill Street, adds, “e Occoquan Merchant’s Association allows the business community to become a stronger resource.” e OMA also sponsors special events in Occoquan. e Merchant’s Association initiated Military Spouse Appreciation Week and the Occoquan Buck program, among others. Military Spouse Appreciation Week takes place in May and all Occoquan businesses typically participate by offering promotions, discounts

Photos cour

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“e town will also be sponsoring a number of activities related to the Civil War Sesquicentennial,” says Porta, who recently wrote a book on Historic Occoquan at the request of Arcadia Publishing for their Images of America series. One of the planned activities, in which the town is especially proud to be included, is the 2011 Tauck Civil War Event Tour created by documentary filmmaker Ken Burns. e tour will come to Prince William County May 22–26. Burns’ miniseries, e Civil War, is the inspiration of the tour, where he hopes to emphasize the war’s significance and the meaning of freedom.

or special events. e Occoquan Buck program has been a consistent program and gives the shopper a $1 discount off a purchase of $10 or more at 30 participating retailers. is program is about to get an upgrade, though. In the past, paper bucks needed to be downloaded and printed from the OMA website by the shopper prior to arriving in Occoquan. is month, though, participating retailers will be distributing a keytag with a scannable barcode eliminating the need to print the paper coupon. Just attach the keytag to your car key ring and you are ready.

Gleason is looking forward to this offer from the OMA and anticipates it making the Occoquan Buck program, and the town’s business community, very popular. As a storeowner, Gleason points out that shopping in Historic Occoquan provides an escape from the mall while being encompassed in a protected moment in time. She and business partner Julie Marshall love the small town-feel. When asked how it is being a business owner in Occoquan, Gleason effusively replies, “Fantastic. is is our first business, we visited the area and knew we were home.”

It benefits every resident within the county borders and beyond to spend a day in Historic Occoquan. e town appeals to every demographic, young and old, singles and families; everyone will find a treasured store, shop owner, restaurant, event, historical site or story to embrace. Porta sums up the town simply: “… there is a great deal of history (and happenings) crammed into a very walkable six-square block area.” But, to truly delve into the Town of Occoquan’s interior is not just a day trip but also a journey that will provide months of enjoyment, discovery and important keys to Prince William County’s past, present, and quite possibly, its future. (continues on page 25) prince william living March 2011 | 11

(continued from page 5) “Approximately 350 guests can ďŹ t into the main ballroom and 100 guests in the front ball room,â€? said Jim Hester, owner of the Continental Event Center. “Opening this facility was a long-term dream and I love helping people. Helping someone celebrate their happy event is amazing and I’m willing to work with people to ensure they can have the party of their dreams.â€? î “e venue’s location is convenient to major highways and airports—oering easy access for all guests.

Set-up is provided by the venue, and lighting, tables, chairs and other equipment can be supplied for guests as well.

Hester, who previously owned a disc jockey business, can provide DJ services to guests if needed, in addition to projection screens for video or picture displays. “I tell my guests, we can do as little or as much as you want,� said Hester. “If you need us to provide food, drinks or servers—we can. If you only need the room and nothing else, we can do that too.�

The Overall Goal While food, drinks, music and location are important factors for every party, the main goal is to have fun and make each moment memorable. “I don’t like doing cookie-cutter events,� said Rivera. “Each client is unique and I think every event should be tailored to them.�

Whether it’s a simple get-together or an elaborate extravaganza, the idea is to enjoy it. Event planners and caterers are a great investment to ensure that the stress of preparation doesn’t ruin the mood of the party.

Of course, the one item which truly makes a party great is the presence of friends and family.

A nonproďŹ t development director for 10 years, Jennifer Rader now works as a freelance writer and consultant. She lives with her son and husband in Manassas.

Hester works closely with his clients to establish what the feel of the party is expected to be.

If you’re looking for a complete package that includes entertainment, food, servers and atmosphere, a venue like the Continental Event Center is the route to take.

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family fun

Erin go Bragh Manassas St. Patrick’s Day Parade Scheduled for March 12

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By Jennifer Rader, Contributing Writer

ancers, kilted drum corps and Irish wolf hounds will regale Center Street in Old Town Manassas as the 12th Annual Manassas St. Patrick’s Day Parade flows through town in celebration of the Irish heritage that shaped Virginia’s northwestern frontier—a frontier that, in the 18th century, found Irish immigrants without the financial resources to invest in the more expensive New England port areas. Possessing the determination and prowess to overcome the harsh frontier, Irish immigrant families settled on unpopulated tracts of land in the Shenandoah Valley. “e Irish have made significant contributions in the shaping of Virginia and this county. at is something we are very proud of,” says Vince Fitzpatrick, President of Inisfail, Inc.—organizers and hosts of the annual parade.

Inisfail, which borrows the pre-Christian name for Ireland meaning “Isle of Destiny,” was created and incorporated as the nonprofit planning organization after the success of the inaugural parade in 2000. And from the sound of it, Manassas’ St. Patrick’s Day parade provides a little Isle of Destiny in itself for Old Town Manassas.

Planning for the Manassas St. Patrick’s Day parade began with the Father Kelley Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians long before its first walk down Center Street. In January 1999 preparations began with the support of the George Brent Council 5332, Knights of Columbus. “e Greater Manassas St. Patrick’s Day Parade began 12 years ago in recognition of the many families of Irish heritage in Manassas, Prince William County and the surrounding communities,” explains Fitzpatrick. e goal is a fun-filled family celebration day regardless of whether or not your ancestry includes shades of green. e 12th Annual Manassas St. Patrick’s Day Parade will take place on Saturday, March 12, at 11:00 a.m., beginning at the corner of Quarry Road and Prescott Avenue. Follow the McGrath Academy of Irish Dance, the United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps and the Northern Virginia Firefighters Emerald Society Pipe and Drum Band, (continues on page 14)

prince william living March 2011 | 13

family fun (continued from page 13) among other participants, down Center Street to the reviewing stand at the Loy E. Harris Pavilion.

Richard Aleksy, president of the State of Virginia Ancient Order of Hibernians and Inisfail founding board member, will join a prestigious list of past parade grand marshals that includes Colonel Mike Reilly, USMC, Afghanistan war veteran; Chief Kevin McGee, Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue; Colonel John J. Kelley, U.S. Army, retired; and, the Honorable Sean T. Connaughton, the current secretary of transportation for the Commonwealth of Virginia. e parade is made possible by the financial contributions of the George Brent Council of the Knights of Columbus, Manassas; Dudley Martin Chevrolet; Medical Missionaries; Comcast; Old Towne Sports Pub; American Legion Post 10; TD Bank; Philadelphia Tavern and Dublin of Old Town.

“We at Inisfail invite everyone to celebrate with us this year and for many years to come,” proclaimed Fitzpatrick.

A nonprofit development director for 10 years, Jennifer Rader now works as a freelance writer and consultant. She lives with her son and husband in Manassas.

Ways to Catch the Luck of the Irish in Old Town Manassas o need to dash from the 12th Annual Manassas St. Patrick’s Day Parade. ere will still be plenty to do in town after the last of the parade’s performers make their way down Center Street. It’s a great day to be in Old Town as local retailers get in the spirit of the holiday. Several of the shops and restaurants are hosting special events or promotions to celebrate the “Luck of the Irish” and everyone qualifies.

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e Philadelphia Tavern, Mackey’s American Pub and the City Tavern will be serving up green beverages and special menu items, and patrons will get the chance to enjoy the sound of bagpipes as Scottish musicians make their way through town.

Dan Mackey, owner of Mackey’s American Pub, said, “Parade day and St. Patrick’s Day are one of the busiest times for Mackey’s.” Mackey’s offers a special St. Patrick’s Day menu during the holiday.

Frankie and Mary Ro McGlone, owners of Dublin of Old Town, agree that the St. Patrick’s Day holiday makes for one of the busiest times of the year for their store as well. Dublin of Old Town has been a sponsor of the parade for several years and also participated in the parade. is year they will host a life-size leprechaun outside the store for kids and families to get a picture with to commemorate their day. “We are just happy to share and 14 | March 2011 prince william living

celebrate our heritage with visitors to Old Town,” said Mary.

But don’t leave yet; keep moving down Center Street to Old Towne Sports Pub where you will find the Family FunFest, complete with moon bounces, face painting, clowns making balloon animals, and entertainment. is is the first year that Old Towne Sports Pub will participate in the Manassas St. Patrick’s Day Parade revelry since opening their doors in September 2010.

“We would like to offer something extra to grow as the parade has grown,” says Tim Holland, co-owner and member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians.

Town Sports Pub will open at 9 a.m. for an Irish breakfast, and the establishment will have a 100’ x 60’ heated tent outside and have made an effort to have extra tables and seating so families can continue to enjoy the day. Dance troupes, musicians and clowns will perform inside as well as outside the pub.

Being a Hibernian, Holland is very involved and welcomes the celebration in Old Town making Old Towne Sports Pub a big contributor to the parade. “We would like to give back to the people who come out to support the parade by stepping up to create an environment for all to enjoy,” Holland said.

Irish Sayings and Proverbs INTERESTING FACT: The popular phrase “Erin go Bragh” (or “Erin go Braugh”) is the Anglican version of the Gaelic phrase “Éirinn go Brách,” which means “Ireland forever.”

An empty sack won't stand Ní sheasann sac folamh.

May God not weaken your hand.

Nár laga Dia do lámh

Hunger is a tasty sauce.

Is maith an t-anlann an t-ocras.

A rainy day isn't a day for the children.

Ní hé lá na báistí lá na bpáistí

The north wind’s heat or the cold of the south wind means rain.

Teas gaoithe aduaidh nó fuacht gaoithe aneas, sin báisteach.

Little is best if well done.

Is deas an rud an beagán ach é a dhéanamh go maith.

He who is not strong must needs be cunning!

An té nach mbíonn láidir ní folláir dó bheith glic

A beetle recognizes another beetle.

Aithníonn ciaróg ciaróg eile

An awkward colt often becomes a beautiful horse.

Is minic a rinne bromach gioblach capall cumasach

He who loses his reputation loses his shame.

An té a chaillfeas a chlú, caillfidh sé a náire.

There is no knowledge without unity.

Ni heolas go haontios

May the bearer of the news be safe.

Gura slán an scéalaí

A windy day is no day for thatching.

Ní hé lá na gaoithe lá na scoilbe.

If you are as strong as an oak tree, death will still vanquish you.

Dá mbeifeá chomh láidir le crann darach, gheobhadh an bás an ceann is fearr ort.

A hint is sufficient for the wise.

Is leor nod don eolach.

Laziness is a heavy burden.

Is trom an t-ualach an leisce.

A (true) friend's eye is a good mirror.

Is maith an scáthán súil charad There are two versions of/two sides to every story and (at least) 12 versions of every song.

Bíonn dhá insint ar scéal agus dhá leagan déag ar amhrán A debt is still unpaid, even if forgotten.

Ní dhíolann dearmad fiacha.

A wren only has need for its nest.

Is leor don dreoilín a nead.

It isn't a trick until it is done three times.

Ní cleas é go ndéantar trí huaire é.

Beware of the anger of a patient man.

Coimhéad fearg fhear na foighde.

A light heart lives longest.

Maireann croí éadrom i bhfad.

He who marries money marries a fool.

An té a phósfas an t-airgead, pósfaidh sé óinseach.

A row between friends is short lasting; even if bitter it is never long.

Is neamhbhuan cogadh na gcarad; má bhíonn sé crua, ní bhíonn sé fada.

The craft comes from the head.

Is ón cheann a thagann an cheird.

As old as the mist and older by two.

Chomh sean leis an cheo agus níos sine faoi dhó.

Lose your reputation to regain it, but it is never the same.

Caill do chlú agus faigh ar ais é, agus ní hé an rud céanna é.

Health’s doctor is sleep.

Dochtúir na sláinte an codladh.

Never take advice without a woman’s guidance.

Ná glac pioc comhairle gan comhairle ban.

Find more Irish sayings and proverbs online at www.irish-sayings.com/cats/irishproverbs.

It is the quiet pigs that eat the meal.

Is iad na muca ciúine a itheann an mhin.

Many a time a man's mouth broke his nose.

Is minic a bhris béal duine a shrón. prince william living March 2011 | 15

local flavor

Mardi Gras All Year Okra’s Cajun Creole serves a New Orlean’s Atmosphere and Terrific Alligator Bites

By Casey Rives, Contributing Writer

t

he blue, yellow and green striped awning over the bright purple door may seem out of place among the brick buildings on Center Street in Old Town Manassas, but enter and you’ll find out the reason for the colorful exterior.

Okra’s Cajun Creole Restaurant is one of few New Orleansthemed restaurants in the area, and their friendly staff, flavorful entrees and fun atmosphere keep customers coming back for more.

“We started off with a goal to be just a mom and pop place with four or five of us working,” said Okra’s owner Charles Gilliam.

“We now have about 25 workers and it’s gone far beyond anywhere we thought it would go. We’ve added on next door and we have patio seating for the summer time. We’re three times bigger than we ever imagined we would be.”

“It’s the whole atmosphere and culture of New Orleans,” said Gilliam. “I dare anybody to try to at least keep from tapping their foot when they’re listening to New Orleans’ zydeco music—it’s impossible.”

Customers experience the feel of Louisiana as soon as they enter the New Orleans style restaurant. Zydeco and Jazz music can be heard throughout the restaurant while alligators, Mardi Gras masks and pictures of musicians decorate the brick walls.

16 | March 2011 prince william living

Photos courtesy Rebecca Barnes and Zack Owen

Okra’s opened the first Saturday of October in 1998. Since then, it has continued to be a favorite among Prince William County residents. And while its size may have changed, the atmosphere has not. Locals flock to the not-so ordinary restaurant for an escape from everyday life.

“I want every customer leaving with a smile,” said Gilliam.

“Okra’s is a comfortable atmosphere; we want people to escape from the city life and get a sense of authentic generosity.”

Gilliam didn’t grow up in Louisiana, but over the years he has become a frequent visitor of New Orleans, even spending time helping with relief efforts after Hurricane Katrina.

Pasta Diablo—a dish of angel hair pasta tossed in spicy cream sauce with andouille sausage.

Of course, Lousiana is known for divine crawfish cuisine. But what makes a great crawfish? While seasonings are key to tasty crawfish, Gilliam admits it is the actual crawfish that creates the great taste.

“I wanted to do Louisiana style food because it’s the best food in the world,” explained Gilliam. “It’s not just the food, but the culture of Louisiana is amazing. e people are genuine and they have some kind of music inside of them that’s always bursting to come out—you can sense the excitement that the people of Louisiana have.”

“It has to be a healthy crawfish. Before you even cook it, that crawfish has to be alive, kicking and strong,” said Gilliam. “It also has to listen to a little zydeco music while it’s going into the water,” he said with a grin.

So far, Gilliam has received no complaints from customers on his restaurant’s Cajun style food.

To add to the cultural aspect of Okra’s, Gilliam has incorporated a “Looziana Terms” section on the back of the restaurant’s menu.

“You know, I have people who come in here from New Orleans for the first time and they’re just looking to find something wrong,” said Gilliam. “ey want to see if they can find something not cooked right or something that’s not really New Orleans style—but I’ll tell you what, they always leave with a smile and always return with three or four friends.”

What to Order ose searching for true New Orleans flavor will enjoy Okra’s jambalaya, gumbo, shrimp creole or red beans, but it’s the dirty rice that sets this Cajun restaurant apart from others.

“Dirty rice—if you see it, you know it’s authentic. e other favorites like jambalaya and gumbo, somebody can try to make a version of it,” said Gilliam. “Dirty rice is something you can’t make unless you know how to make it.”

More than half of Okra’s clients are regulars. Once you visit the first time, you can’t help but come back, says Mattie Micale of Manassas Park—a frequent visitor. “e food is great; I could eat the alligator bites for breakfast, lunch and dinner,” Micale said. “e staff is friendly and the atmosphere is fun. ey always have great live music—real music.”

Micale isn’t the only customer who ranks Okra’s as their favorite restaurant in the Manassas area. e New Orleans eatery was also visited by First Lady Michelle Obama in August 2010. Mrs. Obama was said to have tried some of the famous fried okra— the food which inspired the name of the Louisiana-style bistro. e golden, crispy, fried vegetable is served with Okra’s own Dixie sauce—a sauce Micale describes as “amazing” and “like liquid gold.”

Alongside the traditional “N’awlins” fare, Okra’s offers overstuffed po’ boy sandwiches, blackened filet mignon and

“Looziana” Terms

“Coming here is like a cultural lesson,” said Gilliam. “I think over the past few years we have educated people a little about what New Orleans is and how it feels to be a part of that culture.”

If patrons have a question regarding a term on the menu—a quick flip to the back will allow New Orleans’ terms to be defined.

Okra’s famous gumbo is said to include chicken, andouille sausage and tasso. What exactly is tasso?

According to Okra’s “Looziana Terms,” tasso (pronounced “toss-o”) is dried and cured pork shoulder commonly used as a seasoning meat.

Mardi Gras Okra’s offers live music every Friday and Saturday night during the cold months and outside on the streets in the warmer months, creating a Mardi Gras atmosphere throughout the year.

Gilliam, knows that the real Mardi Gras events are something customers frequently ask about.

“One of the things about Mardi Gras people always ask us is ‘are you having Mardi Gras this year?’” said Gilliam. “e thing is, we can’t stop Mardi Gras—the only thing we can do is make sure we are prepared when it comes.”

Live Cajun music is a must and costumes are a norm for Okra’s celebration of Fat Tuesday.

“At least half the people attending our Mardi Gras events will be dressed up in some sort of costume—it’s like a Halloween for adults,” said Gilliam. “You never know from one year to the next what’s going to happen.” (continues on page 24)

prince william living March 2011 | 17

giving back

If You Build It...

More than 25 Years after their Founding, Project Mend-A-House Still in Full Swing

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By Andrea M. Saccoccia, Contributing Writer

roject Mend-A-House was founded imore than 25 years ago in November of 1984, when a Prince William County Area Agency on Aging Meals on Wheels volunteer dropped off a meal to a senior and noticed the deplorable living conditions of her home. e volunteer recruited her husband’s company to donate the cost of materials, volunteer and complete the much needed repairs on the senior’s home. From there, the organization worked on establishing a non-profit status and it has expanded its mission to improve the living conditions for low-income and disabled residents in Prince William County and Manassas.

Project Mend-A-House enables seniors, disabled and low-income residents to remain safely, comfortably and independently in their own homes through its home repair, home modification and lending closet program. e volunteer-based organization allows residents to “age in place” by completing fall prevention and safety-enhancing repairs. e Loan Closet is stocked with durable medical equipment including handrails, grab bars, shower chairs, transfer benches, hand-held showerheads, walkers, wheelchairs, hospital-style beds and portable ramps as well as smoke detectors and safety lights. e program is considered a last resort for many renters and homeowners; clients are physically and financially unable to repair their homes and/or do not have the skills required to build accessibility ramps to alleviate the burdens of homebound family

18 | March 2011 prince william living

members. Project Mend-A-House assists residents earning less than 50 percent of the area median income, or those that are considered low income according to the Prince William Area Median Income Tables. ese services are offered free of charge thanks to a giving pool of volunteers. e organization accepts donations and relies on the generosity of its donors and in-kind partners to purchase materials.

Project Mend-A-House collaborates with governmental agencies including Area Agency on Aging, Neighborhood Services, Social Services, Disability Services Board, etc., and many non-profit partners to meet the needs of the community’s vulnerable neighbors.

During the past year, volunteers completed more than 450 home safety and modification projects for 143 low-income households.

Eighty-seven percent of Project Mend-A-House’s clients were women, 75 percent of them were disabled and 61 percent of them were seniors. ese services have a tremendous impact on the community; they not only benefit Project Mend-A-House’s clients, maintaining their cherished independence and restoring their dignity, but also the local community by preserving the neighborhood housing stock, keeping it aesthetically pleasing and maintaining property values. In addition, in many cases, PMAH volunteers increase the existing affordable and accessible housing

"We’re neighbors working with neighbors…and when we all work together everyone in the community benefits." inventory by making simple safety improvements—installing grab bars and hand rails or more complex jobs like widening a doorway and constructing a ramp to accommodate a wheelchair.

“We’re neighbors working with neighbors…and when we all work together everyone in the community benefits,” is Project Mend-AHouse’s motto. Carpenters, electricians, plumbers, flooring specialists, handypersons, and other individuals and many civic, faith-based and business groups with compassionate hearts are needed to volunteer to ease our clients’ burdens, give them a better quality of life, maintain their cherished independence so they many continue to live with dignity. You may volunteer; contribute in-kind donations and/or financial support.

Volunteers’ projects range from installing grab bars to replacing doors and windows, diverting water, securing flooring, patching drywall and painting and cleaning up yards, to securing flooring, fixing leaky faucets, to restoring electricity and building ramps. On the first Saturday in June, Project Mend-A-House hosts its annual Builders’ Yard Sale. e organization needs your help; if you have new or gently used building materials, including cabinets, trim, doors and windows, plumbing or electrical, call the Project MendA-House office at (703) 792-7663 to donate it.

Recently, the Virginia Commission on Aging presented Project Mend-A-House with a Best Practices Award for its Fall Prevention Program.

“I didn’t think the day would ever come when I could go in and out of my front door freely…it’s wonderful…what a gift and a blessing you have given me: freedom, independence and the ability to do something on my own,” said a client who had a ramp built. e News and Messenger wrote an editorial commending PMAH for going above and beyond for a senior who was assaulted. “e

help you offer is a God send program for seniors who are disabled and low income.”

Andrea M. Saccoccia has been the executive director of Project MendA-House since March 2005. A graduate of Leadership Prince William, Class of 2009, Second to None, she serves as the chairwoman of the Coalition for Human Services of the Greater Prince William Area and as the Park Authority Appointee on the Prince William County Park Authority Arts Council. For more information about Project Mend-A-House or to offer assistance, please contact ProjectMend-A-House at 7987 Ashton Ave., Suite 231, Manassas, VA 20109, by phone at (703) 792-7663, by fax (703) 792-4094, or by e-mail at projectmendahouse@msn.com. Project Mend-A-House can be found on the Web at www.pmahweb.org.

How You Can Support Project Mend-A-House VOlUnTEER: Project Mend-A-House needs enthusiastic volunteers skilled in carpentry, tiling, painting, plumbing, electrical, roofing, flooring, gardening, photography, writing, snow shoveling, raking and office work. If you want to be a helper, Project Mend-A House will be happy to have you as a volunteer!

Or, offer financial support. Donate to Project Mend-A-House, 7987 Ashton Avenue, Suite 231, Manassas, VA 20109.

Or choose to attend one of Project Mend-A-House important functions: Project Mend-A-House 2nd Annual Golf Tournament May 5, 9 a.m.

Bristow Manor Golf Club 11507 Valley View Drive Bristow For more information, contact Rich Beamer, tournament chairperson, either by phone at (703) 261-5040, or by email at beamerrich@comcast.net.

Builders’ Yard Sale June 4, 8 a.m.–Noon Prince William County Landfill Route 234, 14811 Dumfries Road Manassas e organization needs your help; if you have new or gently used building materials, including cabinets, trim, doors and windows, plumbing or electrical, call the Project Mend-AHouse office at (703) 792-7663 to donate it.

Taste of the Town Dinner – Prince William County Style October 12, 6:30 p.m.

VFW Post 1503 14631 Minnieville Road Woodbridge

prince william living March 2011 | 19

going places e Tae Kwon Do Kid

By Elizabeth Kirkland, Editor in Chief and Publisher

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onzell Murphy, Jr., never crawled. One day, he just got up and started walking. It was then that his parents, Donzell Murphy, Sr., and Lisha Murphy, knew their son was somewhat different from other children.

“He’s always been really athletic,” said Donzell, Sr. Donzell, Jr., has big dreams for the future. “I want to become a master for my (Tae Kwon Do) school and an Olympic champion,” he said. e 11-year-old sixth-grade honor student, who attends Rippon Middle School in Woodbridge, is “poised to become a world (Tae Kwon Do) champion, national champion, and eventually go to the Olympics,” according to his Tae Kwon Do coach, Master Patrice Remarck, the owner of Remarck Sport Tae Kwon Do (RST) in Alexandria.

“He is extremely gifted,” said Remarck. “He has the same ability as older athletes.”

Remarck, who has a 6th DAN black belt in Tae Kwon Do, should know. A Tae Kwon Do World Champion and 1988 Olympian, Remarck is the founder of Team RST. Originally from the Ivory Coast, he has lived in the U.S. for 26 years and is well on his way to becoming a U.S. citizen. He has more than 30 years of competition and teaching experience in Tae Kwon Do and is recognized as one of the world’s best coaches. Since becoming a coach in 1996, he has trained Olympians, World Champions and Junior Olympians in the Korean martial art. His small Alexandria school is one of the top three in the nation. “(Donzell, Jr.) is superior to most of the kids of his age,” Remarck said. Already he has his sights set on the Youth Olympic Games in 2014 for Donzell, Jr. ose games are for those from 14–18 years of age “It might be him,” he said.

“And if it’s not, there’s 2016 and 2020.” Remarck is referring to the Olympic Games in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, in 2016, and the 2020 Olympic Games. In 2016, Donzell, Jr., will be 16—old enough to compete in the Olympics.

“He is a natural athlete,” said Donzell, Sr. “No one outworks him in practice. He has that drive. at’s something a good athlete has to have.”

In addition to Tae Kwon Do, Donzell, Jr., also excels in football. is year, he played for the Dale City Ravens in their 10- and 11year-old unlimited weight category, and was named MVP for the league. “e (football) coach calls him Little Amazing,” Donzell, Sr., said. “Any sport he plays, he’s on a high level. He is just the ultimate competitor.”

20 | March 2011 prince william living

Photos courtesy Jonathan Thorpe. www.jthorpephoto.com

Donzell Murphy, Jr., hopes to someday represent the U.S. in Tae Kwon Do at the Olympics.

aster Patrice Remarck (left) coaches 11-year-old Woodbridge middle schooler Donzell Murphy, Jr., at Remarck Sport Tae Kwon Do in Alexandria.

Donzell, Sr., said his son became interested in Tae Kwon Do watching such kids’ television shows as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Power Rangers.

just about all of them. I’m really proud of the little fellow. He’s pretty special. Right now, he’s young and he has fun doing what he’s doing. He loves it. I’m just there to support him and if he’s having fun, that’s all the better.”

“He started kicking and doing athletic stuff around three,” Donzell, Sr., explained. “Around three he started doing back flips. He was always a daredevil.”

Donzell, Jr., keeps a full schedule. After school, he finishes his homework, and then attends Tae Kwon Do practice in Alexandria, which ends at around 8:30 p.m. Afterward, said Donzell, Sr., he may watch television until nine, but then it’s time for bed. His weekends are equally busy. Still, Donzell, Jr., finds time to enjoy other activities, like playing Xbox games, watching television and movies. He’s also recently picked up the trumpet.

Donzell Jr.’s mother, Lisha Murphy, couldn’t be more proud of her son and his accomplishments.

“I’m just excited that he can do all the things that he does,” Lisha said. “Of course I don’t want him to play football because he’s such a tiny guy compared to most kids, but he hasn’t gotten hurt. He’s tough and can handle himself. I’m okay now with it.

As for Tae Kwon Do, Lisha says she enjoys seeing her son fight.

Ultimately, though, she just wants him to be successful in whatever he chooses to do. “at’s all I can ask for him,” Lisha said. “And just be a good citizen, get a good education—a well rounded education—and finish college. And that’s pretty much what I want for him. I just hope he does very well growing up and everything.”

Samira especially admires Donzell Jr.’s determination. “He plays hard in whatever he does and whatever he does is consistent,” she said. “at’s very impressive to me.”

Already, Donzell, Jr., has amassed more than 50 awards in Tae Kwon Do, including, in 2010, a gold medal at the George Mason University President’s Cup Tae Kwon Do Championships; a silver medal at the Virginia State Games in Hampton; bronze at the Hampton Sports Festival, also in Hampton; and gold in the Annual Friendship Tournament in Chesapeake. He was also a top qualifier for the U.S.A. Tae Kwon Do (USAT) National Championships in 2010, although he was not able to attend because of last year’s Snowmageddon. is year, he hopes to be able to qualify for the 2011 USAT National Championships, which will be held July 2–3 in San Jose, Calif.

“He’s told me, ‘Daddy, I’m going to be famous one day,” said Donzell, Sr. But if he doesn’t attain that fame through Tae Kwon Do, perhaps it will be through science, which is one of his favorite school subjects.

“He says he wants to be a scientist,” Donzell, Sr., said.

Samira believes Donzell, Jr., has the potential to become one of the world’s greatest athletes. “If something comes from this and I hope it will, then that’s great,” she said. “But if not, he’s having fun, and that’s what matters.”

Donzell, Jr.’s biggest fan is his grandmother, Samira Murphy.

“I try to go to all of his events,” Samira said. “And I have made prince william living March 2011 | 21

on a high note

Dance As if No One Were Watching

By Jennifer Rader, Contributing Writer

i

n the Boyle family, “everyone had to do at least six months of Irish dance,” said Alannah Boyle Sweeney, of the Boyle School of Irish Dance. She and sister Ellen Boyle Gibbons have owned and operated the certified Irish dance school since 2000.

Photo courtesy Boyle School of Irish Dance

Sweeney and Gibbons and their six brothers are the children of Irish immigrants. e family spent their childhood in upstate New York, where the sisters cultivated their craft from the ages of four and five. ey were regional and national champions in American and Canadian competitions and qualified on multiple occasions for the World Championships, which take place every Easter in Ireland. To this day, just by talking with them one can feel the passion they have for dance. And so it should come as no surprise that they have chosen to share their love of Irish dance with others who are also driven to learn its intricate yet energetic pace.

When Sweeney was a senior in high school, her older brothers were moving in the Northern Virginia direction and the rest of the family followed. She attended Seton High School in Manassas her senior year and, to make extra spending money, turned to what she knew best—Irish dance. A few parents at Seton had approached her to teach their children, and it was from there that the idea for the Boyle School of Irish Dance began to sprout.

During the day, Sweeney worked as a lobbyist on Capitol Hill and Gibbons continued working at Georgetown Hospital; both taught Irish dance in the evening. Parents who knew about the sisters' championship background in Irish dance, though, continued to seek out Irish dance lessons from the sisters for their children.

While Sweeney finished high school, Gibbons attended Franciscan University, became an RN and worked at Georgetown Hospital in Washington, D.C. Meanwhile, Sweeney studied humanities at Franciscan University, graduating in the early summer of 2000.

Sweeney and Gibbons opened the Manassas school in the fall of 2000 on a part-time basis, but they soon saw the need for expansion. ey opened schools in Alexandria and Chantilly in 2002, and by 2004, the schools began operating full-time.

22 | March 2011 prince william living

A fourth location opened in Herndon this past year—at the same time that the Manassas location was moving to the Hylton Performing Arts Center.

that requires that one understand music and timing, written dance theory, and practical “caeli,” or dance with self-choreographed arrangements. ose who earn certification as instructors must also show the ability to teach traditional dances to children before a panel review, and teach beginners as well as champions for panel review.

Gibbons and Sweeney make every effort to rotate the class facility so students coming from the northern locations get a reprieve from traveling a distance to class. However, the Hylton location is the most scheduled-for class, at a minimum of twice per week. ey love the facility and the opportunity it presents for their dancers.

Sweeney said they are very fortunate to be in the Hylton Performing Arts Center. It gives students the closest experience to a competition venue, she said.

ose who wish to be judges must have been Irish dance teachers for a minimum of two years and succeed in the first three teacher exams of music, written dance theory and dance—a second time.

Additionally, there is a math and scoring component and judging of a mock competition where adjudicator candidates are interviewed by the panel regarding their competition scoring method. Gibbons and Sweeney will be presented their adjudicator status and an award at this year’s World Championships.

“e floor is unbelievable. It’s as big as a World Championship floor.” Sweeney exudes excitement as she explains the benefits to the dancers. “It’s just a great fit.”

So what do these dancers do with their intense training after they have gone beyond student status at the Boyle School of Irish Dance? Many former students have been hired by the Boyle School to address their class capacity. A few have gone on to study Irish dance at the University of Limerick. ose who are 18 years of age and older have become part of Busch Gardens’ international show or audition for Riverdance. e Boyle School of Irish Dance has also provided opportunities such as performances in the Key Largo Irish Fest, Wolf Trap and other distinguished venues. is year, four dancers will travel to Key Largo to perform on March 12 at the popular event. ree of the past four years, Sweeney and dancers “of age” from the Boyle School had the opportunity to perform aboard the Carnival line of cruise ships as they sailed through the Caribbean.

“We never expected the demand for it; like you could actually make a living,” said Sweeney.

e Boyle School of Irish Dance currently has 500 students, including 40 boys, and a waitlist. Due to limited capacity, they have decided against teaching adults. e dance students come from across the Northern Virginia region to study with the Boyle sisters. One student even makes the trip to the school from Charlottesville, Va. e school teaches three different class arrangements: regular skillfocused classes, show classes and competition class. e Boyle School of Irish Dance is a competitive dance school but the regular skill-focused classes allow a dancer to concentrate on learning the same material as a champion without being concerned about competing. All dancers take skill classes. Show classes divide students into teams that prepare for a minimum of three performances each year as well as parades, special events and recitals. “e best time to start a child in Irish dance lessons is between the ages of five and eight,” offered Sweeney. ere are currently 37 dancers in the Boyle School competition classes. e competition classes intensely train for regional, national and international championships. ese dancers attend class three nights each week and devote a minimum of 10 hours during the week to hone their skills. On April 14, dancers from the Boyle School of Irish Dance will compete in the World Championships in Dublin, Ireland. Ten of these students are from Prince William County and four are from Fauquier County. And, it seems skilled footwork remains a family trait. Gibbons’ eight-year-old son recently won a regional championship; Boyle School’s first.

Not only will Boyle School of Irish Dance students be a highlight at the World Championship; Sweeney and Gibbons will be as well. e Boyle School is a certified Irish Dance School by An Coimisiun le Rinci Gaelacha, in Dublin, Ireland, and the Boyle sisters are both certified teachers and have recently passed certification to be An Coimisiun adjudicator judges. In discussing these certification processes, there is no question that the students they teach receive a quality education in Irish dance and they hold the highest integrity of the art they teach.

To become a certified Irish dance teacher there is a five-part exam

is year is just as busy as any other. e Boyle School of Irish Dance has entered 12 dancers into the All Ireland Championship in Killarney; 14 dancers are going to the World Championship in Dublin, Ireland in April; 25 students will compete in the North American Championships in Nashville; and the school will host an annual recital at the Hylton Performing Arts Center the first week of June.

In the meantime, one can definitely catch teams of dancers throughout the Northern Virginia region during the month of March in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. Forty-five local performances are scheduled in March; most surrounding the Irish holiday. On March 12, a team will entertain at the Old Towne Sports Pub in Manassas. Dancers from the school will perform every night from March 11–17 at Finnegan’s in Herndon. Four teams of dancers will host St. Patrick’s Day patrons on the evening of March 17 at Ned Divine’s in Sterling and Herndon, Potomac Point Winery in Stafford, Va., and McMahon’s in Warrenton, Va. More information about locations, classes and competition frequently asked questions can be found by visiting the Boyle School of Irish Dance’s website at www.boyleschool.com.

A nonprofit development director for 10 years, Jennifer Rader now works as a freelance writer and consultant. She lives with her son and husband in Manassas.

prince william living March 2011 | 23

local flavor (continued from page 17) A special Mardi Gras menu is served on the older side of the restaurant, while the newer side provides an area for dancing and music. is year, the Mardi Gras celebration will begin March 7 with a 3 p.m. happy hour. Festivities the following day will begin at 11 a.m., and the celebration will continue until the day’s end. (For more information regarding events at Okra’s, search the events section at www.okras.com.)

Photo courtesy Rebecca Barnes and Zack Owen

Okra’s Future Gilliam has plans to open three more Okra’s Cajun Creole Restaurants, so that people throughout the county can enjoy Okra’s Cajun cuisine.

“I’d like to open one in the Gainesville or Haymarket area and one around Occoquan or Montclair,” said Gilliam. “My goal is to push the edges of the county, where people in neighboring counties can also figure out who we are and understand us.” e goal in creating additional restaurants is to never lose the one-of-a-kind atmosphere that Okra’s holds.

“I don’t know how something like this happens, but it’s truly amazing,” said Gilliam. “I can actually say that I’m excited to wake up every morning and come to work—I love what I do. I love putting a smile on everyone’s face.”

While reservations are not accepted at Okra’s, customers can reach the restaurant at (703) 330-2729 to ask about cuisine or events.

“My theory is, if we aren’t spending so much time answering phones or making reservations, we can spend more time taking care of you while you’re here,” said Gilliam.

Okra’s is a place to escape from the day-to-day grind in Northern Virginia. Southern hospitality and comfort come complimentary with any dish on the menu.

Fried Okra Submitted by Sharon Robinson of Manassas

Ingredients 6-10 pieces of okra, sliced in 1/4-inch pieces 1 well-beaten egg 1 cup cornmeal (for sweeter okra, try Jiffy cornbread mix) 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Writer Casey Rives, who resides in Haymarket, Va., is a communications major at George Mason University. Her expected graduation date is December 2011.

1/8 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 cup vegetable oil

Preparation Mix okra in bowl with well-beaten egg. Allow okra to sit in mix for 10 minutes. While waiting, combine cornmeal, salt, pepper, and onion powder in large bowl. Next, heat 1/2 cup vegetable oil on high heat. Roll egg-drenched okra in cornmeal mixture. Place okra in hot oil, stirring often until okra begins to brown. Reduce heat to medium and allow okra to cook until golden.

24 | March 2011 prince william living

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The Key to Meeting Your Real Estate Needs

Photo courtesy Jeff Owen

13875 Hedgewood Drive Woodbridge, VA 22193

If you would like more information on the Town of Occoquan, there are several online resources available providing its history, photographs, upcoming events and merchant information, please visit www.occoquan.org, www.historicoccoquan.com, http://occoquanmerchantsassociation.com and www.occoquanhistoricalsociety.org. You can also “friend” Occoquan on Facebook (find them by typing “I<3 Occoquan, VA” into the “search” field on Facebook). For information on the 2011 Tauck Civil War Event Tour, visit www.tauck.com.

A nonprofit development director for 10 years, Jennifer Rader now works as a freelance writer and consultant. She lives with her son and husband in Manassas.

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prince william living March 2011 | 25

tambourines and elephants en ere Was.

By DeeDee Corbitt Sauter In an effort to explain how the universe began, scientists have looked to the stars and skies, pooled their data and created the Big Bang Theory. According to this premise, there was nothing, then there was an event—an explosion—and then there was the universe. Let me summarize: nothing, explosion, universe, life.

That’s all I am saying, but I will get back to that shortly.

I used to work outside of the home. I worked long hard hours, talked with adults, complained about my pay, was thin and had nice clothes without stains. After my oldest was born, I went from full-time madness to part-time chaos. Our second child has the benefit of having me home all of the time. Well, it will later be determined if this is indeed a benefit to anyone. Regardless, I work at home now, meaning I do not get paid.

When you work inside your home, you don’t get the feedback you normally get when you have to travel to an office. When the living room is spotless, no one wanders by on the way to the coffee pot and utters something like, “Hey, nice living room. I like what you did to the couch. Strong effort.” No one notices that there are days when ALL of the laundry is done, folded, ironed and put away. A coworker never mentions how the ring in the toilet bowl never shows up anymore. And why would anyone state that they neither smell the dog or the cat litter? It’s only an offense when the olfactory nerve is rudely stimulated. Regardless, the person who stays at home rarely gets feedback simply because there is no one to give it.

Because there is a lack of external feedback—a paucity of compliments—it is easy to start thinking that perhaps the “home” job is not vital and that the service provided is not as necessary as other jobs. Most of the work is hidden from view and no one is around to notice. Unless you have a baby with you in the home who may notice but simply not care; by the way, the baby will repeat almost anything you say but will not flood you with a plethora of compliments. It’s not right.

Just last week, I was told that my husband should not do so much in the house because he has a busy job. He should not have to put a load of laundry in the wash, or rinse the dishes or even change the baby’s diaper. He is busy during the day and tired at night. He should rest. I contemplated that while staring dumbfounded at the person relaying this opinion.

Lack of feedback and comments like that eventually distort reality and perspective. Perhaps, I occasionally question, my job is not that vital? Maybe if I just stop to smell the roses and not run right by them or trample them, no one will notice? Perchance, clothes can be worn more than once before friends and neighbors start to keep 26 | March 2011 prince william living

their distance? What would happen if I actually stopped vacuuming? Silly thoughts scurry through my mind during the day.

Then it happened.

I got sick. I didn’t catch a cold or sneeze violently. I did not get a headache and want to lie down. I acquired and cultured some GI microbe that soon took over my entire being. By the time my husband came home that day, I was convinced I would not live to the next day. I looked at him with glassy eyes and crawled up the stairs, convinced that I would never return again. I muttered something about love, vomited and left.

For three days I was quarantined in the master bedroom. I will spare you all the details, but it is sufficient to know I had a pillow and a toilet at my disposal. My husband took the next off from work. I did not care. My father came the day after. I had no energy to spare. On the third day, I felt almost human; I had kept ginger ale and a cracker in my stomach for several hours. I decided to shower and return to my family. It was only then that I actually remembered I had a family and became curious about their wellbeing.

I went downstairs, clinging to the railing. I was alive. They were alive. The floor was… alive.

We have two boys, ages nine and a year-and-a-half. Perhaps it was just post-fever hallucinations, but it looked as if at least 17 children lived there. I did not recognize some of the toys. Or clothes. Or dishes. I wandered to the kitchen and saw a smoke detector on the counter. Confused, I texted my husband as to where it belonged.

He promptly responded, “The perils of getting better. Go back upstairs.”

This is where we go back to the Big Bang Theory. I firmly believe that my family took advantage of my absence and decided to see if they could prove this theory true. Through experimentation with items perhaps now buried in the backyard, they tried to create a new world—maybe life—from nothing. It was clear there was an explosion. There is no evidence they were successful in their quest.

I now have the authority to tell anyone who runs the house that yes, you are important. The mundane drudgery of daily chores is indeed necessary. Never doubt that your presence is the power that prevents explosions from occurring in your home. Just, never, never become ill. Those who stay at home do not have sick days.

DeeDee Corbitt Sauter is a resident of Prince William County. Her column, “Tambourines and Elephants,” appears monthly in Prince William Living.

calendar Theater of the First Amendment Presents: 24, 7, 365

Youth Orchestras of Prince William: A Nordic Extravaganza

March 3–5, 8 p.m.; March 5, 2 p.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center Gregory Family eater 10900 University Avenue Manassas Cost: $30 for Friday and Saturday’s evening performances; $25 for ursday evening performance and matinee. For more information, visit www.hyltoncenter.com.

March 6, 3 p.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center Merchant Hall 10900 University Avenue Manassas Cost: $15 adults; $10 student/senior; Children under six: free.

For more information, visit www.hyltoncenter.com.

March 3, 8 p.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center Merchant Hall 10900 University Avenue Manassas Cost: $42, $34, $26 (reserved seating). For more information, visit www.hyltoncenter.com.

Gar-Field Sophomore Parent Coffee Meeting March 4, 8–9 a.m.

Gar-Field Senior High School 14000 Smoketown Road Woodbridge

Creation Station March 4, 6–9 p.m.

Lake Ridge Park 12350 Cotton Mill Drive Lake Ridge Cost: $15 fee per class. All four-year-olds are invited to attend classes, during which they will use their imaginations during ageappropriate activities. Preregistration is recommended, due to 12-person class limit. For more information, call (703) 4945288.

NOVA Manassas Symphony: Mardi Gras March 5, 7:30 p.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center Merchant Hall 10900 University Avenue Manassas Cost: $15 adult; $12 educator special (with ID at box office); $10 senior; free/children through high school and college students (with valid ID) For more information, visit www.hyltoncenter.com.

Greater Manassas St. Patrick’s Day Parade March 12, 11 a.m.–12:15 p.m.

Old Town Manassas Center Street Manassas For more information, visit www.stpatparade.net.

The Blarney Ball Annual Gala Fundraiser March 12, 7 p.m.–11 p.m.

Center for the Arts at the Candy Factory 9419 Battle Street Manassas Cost: $90 per ticket; $500 for group of six. For more information or to purchase advance tickets, visit www.center-for-the-arts.org.

march

Tango Buenos Aires

Annual Fashion Show for Cancer Research and Aid March 13, 1–3 p.m.

Hosted by the Ladies Auxiliary of VFW Post 1503 VFW Post 1503 14631 Minnieville Road Dale City Cost: $15. Admission includes lunch and door prizes.

“An Evening With…” Series

March 24, 6:30 p.m.

Mr. Marshall N. Carter, Chairman of the New York Stock Exchange Group and Deputy Chairman of the parent company NYSE Euronext, will speak on “21st Century Warfighting Tools: Beans, Bullets, Brains, and Economics…Economics??”

National Museum of the Marine Corps 18900 Jefferson Davis Highway Triangle Cost: $65. Sponsorship available. RSVP by March 18 via email at mchf.rsvp@gmail.com, or (703) 640-6334. Dress: Military Service Alpha or civilian coat and tie.

Have an event you’d like to publicize? Contact Prince William Living Editor in Chief and Publisher Elizabeth Kirkland at ekirkland@princewilliamliving.com.

prince william living March 2011 | 27

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