Prince William Living July 2012

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NATHAN’S DAIRY BAR

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A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT

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NO BONES ABOUT IT

prince william living July 2012

The premiere lifestyle magazine of Prince William and Greater Manassas

Boats Ahoy!

PAGE 14

Nine Months In, Nine Months Out PAGE 18

Mary Lopez and the Independence Empowerment Center www.princewilliamliving.com

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table of contents July 2012 Vol. 2 No. 7

FEATURE STORY Boats Ahoy! Fun on the Water in Prince William County..........................................4

DEPARTMENTS from the publisher..................................................3 advertiser index ....................................................3

4 Photo courtesy Tamar Wilsher-Rivas

destinations I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Nathan’s Dairy Bar! ........................................10 on a high note Nine Months In, Nine Months Out: Maternity for a Modern Mom..............................14 going places Going Places (and Not Stopping): Mary Lopez and the Independence Empowerment Center ..........................................18 giving back A River Runs rough It: Water Conservation and Recreation in Our Own Backyard..................20

10 Photo courtesy Tamar Wilsher-Rivas

local flavor Hear Ye, Hear Ye! Mackey’s American Pub............26 family fun Cool Tides and Good Vibes at the Raingutter Regatta......................................28 calendar ..............................................................32 distribution sites ................................................37

COLUMNS home & hearth ....................................................16 your finances ......................................................30

26

Discover Prince William & Manassas................33 Photography by Linda Hughes

tambourines and elephants No Bones About It ..............................................35 prince william living July 2012 | 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 Rebecca Barnes, Cindy Brookshire, DeeDee Corbitt Sauter, Audrey Harman, Michelle Hurrell, Keasha Lee, Boyd Lillard, Anne Marie Maher, Jennifer Rader and Denise Smith Copy Editor Peter Lineberry Photography Sean Floars, Linda Hughes and Tamar Wilsher-Rivas Graphic Design and Production Alison Dixon/Image Prep Studio Advertising Account Executives Michelle Geenty and Jennifer Rader 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 2012 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.

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.

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.

Social Media

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.

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

from the publisher J

uly may be one of our hotter months, but with so many things to do in Prince William and Greater Manassas, we at least have ample opportunities to divert our attention from the heat.

In this month’s Discover Prince William & Manassas column (page 33), author Ann Marie Maher discusses some of those opportunities, which include things like watching a Potomac Nationals baseball at Pfitzner Stadium in Woodbridge, checking out the Old Dominion Speedway, and paying a visit to Veterans Memorial Regional Park.

Interested in enjoying a beautiful fireworks display this Fourth of July? Check out Manassas’ display at 9:15 p.m., or the City of Manassas Park’s display, also taking place the evening of July 4. And of course who could forget Dale City’s Fourth of July parade? It is also set for July 4. Find out about these events and others in this month’s calendar (page 32).

In this issue of Prince William Living, we have chosen to focus on the water, and boating is a great way to get close to it. Be sure to read Olivia Overman’s story about boating in “Boats Ahoy!” (page 4).

Author Michelle Hurrell’s Giving Back article “A River Runs rough It: Conservation and Recreation in our Own Backyard,” is also is all about the water. Specifically, it is about the Occoquan Water Trail, which was created in 2001 by the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority with the assistance of a grant from the Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network. e trail was recognized by the U.S. Department of the Interior as a National Recreation Trail in the National Trails System on May 26, 2009.

Advertiser Index ACTS ..........................................................................................36 Alpha Pets ................................................................................36 Ameriprise Financial ................................................................34 Apple FCU ................................................................................30 The ARC of GPW ......................................................................36 Bargain Relocation ............................................................23, 36 Becky Crowley/Flute and Piano Lessons ................................36 Benedictine Sisters ..................................................................23 CAP Accounting, LLC................................................................24 CertaPro Painters ......................................................................16 Christ Chapel ............................................................................36 City of Manassas Park—Parks & Recreation ..........................31 Confidence Realty ....................................................................24 Cornerstone Landscaping ........................................................17 Dansk Day Spa at Occoquan....................................................36 Discover Prince William and Manassas ..................................33 Edgemoor Art Studio................................................................36 Farmers Insurance ....................................................................36 Flooring America ........................................................................5 Fred’s Best Windows ................................................................16 FURR Roofing............................................................................33 Gateway College Funding........................................................30 Geico ..........................................................................................19 Grasso Construction Services, LLC ........................................12 Imagewerks ..............................................................................36 Lavender Retreat ......................................................................35 Lil Bit of Posh ............................................................................36

Get your family closer to the water by participating in the Raingutter Regatta, which has been a Cub Scout tradition for many years. Tiger Cubs, Bobcats, Wolves, Bears and Webelos come together each summer or fall to participate in the Raingutter Regatta—a race between scouts’ balsa wood-crafted boats that are between six-and-ahalf and seven inches, with masts of between six and seven inches, bottom to top. Read more about the Raingutter Regatta in this month’s Family Fun article, by Boyd Lillard (page 28).

Did you know that July is National Ice Cream Month? Why not celebrate that with a trip to Nathan’s Dairy Bar? Read about them in this month’s Destinations (page 10), by Keasha Lee. And don’t miss this month’s On a High Note feature (page 14), in which Prince William Living contributing writer Jennifer Rader introduces to us the writers of Nine Months In, Nine Months Out: Angel Miller, MSN, CNM; Corry Matthews, MS; Sheila Kirkbride, MS; and Stacia Kelly, Ph.D., MHt. e book, written for moms and by moms is listed as suggested reading by Shady Grove Adventist Hospital and the Cord Blood Registry.

Be sure to read this month’s Going Places feature, too, in which author Audrey Harman introduces us to Mary Lopez and the Independence Empowerment Center (page 18). Located in Manassas next to Prince William Hospital, the IEC works with “people of all kinds of disabilities from newborns to people over 100 years old,” said Lopez. (continues on page 23)

Lustine Automall ......................................................................34 Magnificent Belly Dance ..........................................................36 The Maids..................................................................................36 Mariner Sailing School ............................................................37 Minnieland Academy................................................................31 Northern Virginia Community College....................................24 Okra’s ........................................................................................12 Peggy and Bill Burke, Long & Foster Realtors ......................29 Polaris Press ................................................................................8 Pope John Paul the Great Catholic High School ......................9 Potomac Belle ..........................................................................24 Potomac Place ..........................................................................31 Prince William Chamber of Commerce ..................................13 Prince William County Fair ......................................................33 Prince William County Historic Preservation..........................22 Prince William Hospital ............................................................C4 Prince William Ice Center ........................................................12 Prince William Marina ..............................................................21 Prince William Public Library System ....................................13 PRTC Transit/Omni Link ..............................................................8 Rainbow Therapeutic Riding Center ........................................7 Ready Hands ............................................................................31 Reiki Master ..............................................................................34 Sassy Gifts ................................................................................36 Sentara Healthcare ..................................................................25 Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center ............................C2 Stratford University..................................................................12 Tea Time Tea Room ..................................................................36 Washington Square Associates ..............................................36 Westminster at Lake Ridge ......................................................17

prince william living July 2012 | 3

Boats Ahoy!

Fun on the Water in Prince William County

By Olivia Overman, Contributing Writer

“i

t isn’t that life ashore is distasteful to me. But life at sea is better,” Sir Francis Drake once said. Who knew, though, that one could experience this “better” life on the water right here in Prince William County?

For that matter, who knew that the county is home to the No. 1 Boat Dealer in North America? Well, you can, and now you do!

are happy... Everybody who works here knows we don’t sell anything people need, so we must take care of them.”

Power Boats, Etc.

Asked how much boating is a part of county residents’ lives, Phillips said: “I would guess five percent of Prince William County public are involved in boating more than once a year, 15 to 20 percent of them are involved in it more than once or twice a year.

But most people don’t go boating by themselves, they bring friends with them, so one boat could probably represent four or five families.”

While many consider boating a pastime for the affluent, Carlton Phillips, CEO of Prince William Marina, would beg to differ. “e biggest secret about boating is how inexpensive it is,” Phillips said.

“You can buy a brand new boat for probably about $2,000 down, maybe $2,500, and your payments are less than $200 a month.”

Located on Gordon Boulevard in Woodbridge, on the banks of the Occoquan, Prince William Marina is a dealer in Sea Rays, Harris pontoons and Hornet boats. ey are also a full-service shop for all your boating needs. But it’s not just about sales at this marina— voted No. 1 by Boating Industry magazine in 2010—it’s about enjoying the lifestyle that goes along with boating in a resort-type atmosphere. Said Phillips: “We want to make sure our customers 4 | July 2012 prince william living

e Marina has its own restaurant—e Electric Palm—a yacht club, a heated swimming pool open from March to November, three bathhouses with private bathrooms, a fuel dock, a boatel and a private ramp—everything you need to relax and enjoy your time in and on the water in a place where everyone is considered family.

Speaking about one local couple getting married recently at the marina, Phillips noted that “they bought a boat from us eight months ago and they have already traded up. ey are having a ball. I don’t know what half these people would do if we didn’t have the marina here. We are very lucky to be a part of it.” (continues on page 6)

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Photos courtesy Tamar Wilsher-Rivas

(continued from page 4) And on any given day during the summer in Prince William County, you will find all types of people enjoying various types of watercraft on the Occoquan and Potomac rivers. Just ask Sarah Percival, chief ranger at Leesylvania State Park, which boasts “two boat ramps, one that fits five boats across.” “You will see recreational boats, jet skis, sailboats, kayaks, commercial boats like Tim’s Rivershore charter boat, and fishing boats,” she added. According to the park’s website, the Potomac River “is an excellent largemouth bass fishery,” and Percival also noted there are frequent bass tournaments held at the park.

On the third Saturday of every month from May to October, local guides host historic tours along the Potomac River. “ere are a lot of historic sites along the Potomac,” Percival said, “from Cannons Branch Fort, to Freestone Point, to Possum Point.” e park also has amenities that allow people to enjoy their time before and after going out on the water, like “a convenience store with bathrooms that have a shower in each one,” she said. e park also provides a storage facility at the main office for boaters where they can store their boats during the winter months.

Boating is extremely popular during the summer months, especially during the weekends, but “you will see the professional boaters all year round,” Percival said.

Another boat dealer and marina in the county, Hoffmaster’s Marina, located on Swan Point Road in Woodbridge, deals in Chaparral boats, Cobalt and Bennington pontoon boats. A family business for more than 50 years, the company’s motto is “Welcome to the family.” And since owning a boat is usually a luxury as opposed to a necessity, welcoming people into a family atmosphere is a key ingredient. e popularity of boating in Prince William County “depends on the age group you are looking at,” said Judy Chilcot, business manager at Hoffmaster’s.

“We sell to all different kinds of people.”

Different types of activities call for different types of boats; some people might be looking to water ski, some fish, while others just want a boat on which to relax.

6 | July 2012 prince william living

Hoffmaster’s Marina, located on Swan Point Road in Woodbridge, deals in Chaparral boats, Cobalt and Bennington pontoon boats.

“Our customers go out on the Potomac, down to Florida and all over the place,” said Chilcot, “and we sell and service [the boats] for them. When we sell a boat, we offer training classes.”

Just like Hoffmaster’s, Prince William Marina offers classes and training when people buy a boat. “We will not sell a boat unless we do a demo on it,” said Phillips.

“We take the customer for a ride, could be several hours, and in some cases we go out three or four times with people. For larger boats, we will provide a captain service for people until they get really oriented with what they are doing.”

Michele Price, general manager at Prince William Marina, described the free monthly classes that are provided to new as well as potential owners. “On the second Tuesday of every month, we offer two types of classes, a maintenance class and a boater safety class,” she said. “New boat owners are asked to come to these classes after they get more oriented with their boat, [when] they will know what questions to ask.”

If you’re not yet ready to purchase a boat, how about a boat club membership instead? Carefree Boat Club has numerous locations around the southeastern U.S., but the closest one for Prince William County residents is in Occoquan, on Madigan’s Waterfront. e basic premise of the club, which was founded in Woodbridge in 2002, is “boating without the hassles of ownership,” said membership director Brian Cox. e club allows its members to take out different types of boats whenever

they wish. “ere is no limit to how often they go out, or which boats they use,” said Cox. While the club does not rent boats on a daily basis, people can apply for a one-, three- or five-year membership which will allow them to take a boat out from any of their locations.

Designed for everyday boating, Carefree sees its members take the boats out on the Occoquan and Potomac rivers and head up to Georgetown, the new marina at National Harbor, and even out on the Chesapeake Bay. ere are limited opportunities for overnight excursions, but “one weekly trip a year is allowed,” said Cox. e club enables people with dreams of being on the water to do so without the hassles of owning a boat. “We have a healthy mix of people who rent from us; new boaters, people who have never done it before who are intimidated by purchasing a boat but who are looking for a lower barrier of entry and the ongoing support we provide,” said Cox.

Sailing on the Potomac River If you’re looking for something more laidback than motor power for your water experience, why not try sailing? e Potomac is a popular place to sail, said Danny Rouse, owner of Woodbridge Sailing School. Located in Leesylvania State Park, the school offers classes, rents sailboats and even provides private

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Located on Gordon Boulevard in Woodbridge, on the banks of the Occoquan, Prince William Marina is a dealer in Sea Rays, Harris, pontoons and Hornet boats.

chartered boats for special occasions. “We have a lot of ex-power boaters who come and boat with us,” said Rouse, especially because of the price of gas these days.

“After the cost of the boat rental, the wind is free.”

Rouse offers packages such as a two–and-ahalf-hour sailing instruction package that includes lessons from a certified instructor, while more enthusiastic sailors may want to sign up for the basic keelboat certificate course. is, according to the company’s website, “includes 10 hours of on-the-water training time, plus classroom instruction time.” Classes, which are offered April 1 to Oct. 31, are taught by U.S. Coast Guard Captains. “is basic keelboat certification will allow you to captain your own boat,” said Rouse.

Asked what type of people like to sail, Rouse said, “We have a lot of married people with kids; a lot of motorboat converts who, once they try sailing, realize it is a whole different animal. We also get a lot of Marines from Quantico Marine Base.”

Woodbridge Sailing also gives back to the community by working with the Occoquan-based Ship 7916 of the Sea Scouts, a co-ed program sponsored by the Boy Scouts of America. “It gets the kids out, gets them away from their parents, said Rouse. “About once a month we have about 20 kids. We put four kids on three different boats while the other kids take instruction on land.” (continues on page 8)

Water Safety is Priority #1 Occoquan, Woodbridge & Lorton Volunteer Fire Department Chief Jim McAllister cannot stress water safety for area residents enough, stating emphatically that, even though federal regulations require access to a personal flotation device for every person on a boat, crew and passengers should always wear one at all times.

“In the fire service if we are within 10 feet of the water, or if we are on a boat, we are mandated to wear a PFD (personal flotation device), so I recommend citizens do the same,” McAllister said.

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“We respond to about 25 to 100 water emergencies per year,” he continued. “We see an average of one to two fatalities per year. Most boating fatalities are a direct result of the victim not wearing a personal flotation device.

“Make sure the PFD is the right size, too. Often we see accidents where an adult will put a child into an adult-size PFD, and then the child falls and slides out, [which] could possibly result in a drowning.

“When you are out on the water, we all want to have fun, but please be safe and wear a personal flotation device.”

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(continued from page 7) e sailing school has numerous boats, including a 22-foot, 23-foot, 25-foot and a 29-foot. “Bring your girlfriend, your wife for an anniversary celebration, steer or just watch a captain steer,” Rouse said.

“Sailing is a feeling,” he added. “On the water you relax and listen to the sound of the boat in the water. You can’t read about this in a book.”

You’ve got the

Organized Activities e facilities for boating in Prince William County—the marinas, the sailing school and the boat club—all offer social events and organized activities for people to enjoy, especially during the summer months.

From a dock crawl to fishing tournaments, from historic tours to a bluegrass cruise, there’s bound to be something to suit everyone’s taste. And as the American writer Rita Mae Brown said, “I finally figured out the only reason to be alive is to enjoy it.” Perhaps, just perhaps, boating may be the way to go about enjoying life.

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A graduate of American University’s School of Communication, Olivia Overman has written articles for a number of online and print publications. She lives with her husband and son in Woodbridge. Overman can be reached by email at ooverman@princewilliamliving.com.

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I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for NAthAN’S DAIrY BAr!

By Keasha Lee, Contributing Writer

J

uly was designated National Ice Cream Month in 1984 by President Ronald Reagan because he recognized its popularity for people of all ages. And what better month to treat ourselves than in July—when the days are long and hot, and we long for sweet treats to help us cool down?

Children, teens and adults of all ages are frequent customers of Nathan’s, and it’s fun to see what kinds of ice cream-and-topping combinations they choose.

“We have 11 flavors of ice cream every day, and one sherbet feature each day,” said Bret Antenen, manager of Nathan’s Dairy Bar. In addition to the standard chocolate and vanilla flavors, Nathan’s offers such flavors as chocolate raspberry truffle, cake batter and chocolate-banana; sherbet flavors include coconut, pomegranate and raspberry lemonade. Shaved ice is also served daily.

“I like the butter pecan with chocolate dip and rainbow sprinkles,” said 10-year-old Emelie Watson, of Manassas.

10 | July 2012 prince william living

Photos courtesy Tamar Wilsher-Rivas

According to the International Dairy Foods Association, 90 percent of the American population eats ice cream. So who wouldn’t want the convenience of a quick-service dairy bar that provides high-quality ingredients and a multitude of flavors to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth? Nathan’s Dairy Bar, located on Mathis Avenue in Manassas, has been providing customers with unique ice cream treats, excellent customer service, and a casual atmosphere for 12 seasons now. And if you ever had any doubts that the ice cream whipped up by Nathan’s is anything less than delicious, just visit on any weekend from March through December; the long lines of patrons waiting to step up to the window to place their orders ought to tell you something.

Antenen even has his own favorite combination: “I like chocolate ice cream with chocolate chips and chocolate syrup or even a twist of chocolate and vanilla.”

At Nathan’s—named in honor of owner Dave Hutton's son—it’s a relief to know that once you’ve placed your order, it won’t be long before you receive it. And although Nathan’s is a walk-up bar, there are lots of tables topped with red and white umbrellas available for those who want to enjoy their ice cream on-site.

As popular as Nathan’s is, you’d think they’d have spent a fortune on advertising, but that isn’t the case. “We don’t advertise,” said Antenen. “I [believe] if you greet people with a smile and select quality ingredients, they will tell other people they know about us.” Social media has also helped spread the word; in fact, the Nathan’s Dairy Bar Facebook page has nearly 6,000 fans.

“Nathan’s is one of the best ice cream places that I know,” said Lake Ridge resident Natalia Wilson. “e ice cream is delicious and they always have fresh toppings that my children and I enjoy.”

In addition to the walk-up bar, Nathan’s also has a bus, which they use to travel to school events, corporate employee recognition events, and for vending during Manassas’ Fourth of July parade.

Dubbed “Nathan’s Dairy Jr.,” it’s used to share many of the same ice cream, sherbet and shaved ice flavors that are served at the home location.

“My family has been going to the Fourth of July parade for three years, and each year we look forward to cooling off with some yummy ice cream from Nathan’s truck,” said Valerie Hampton, of Woodbridge. e great taste and affordable treats--starting at less than $2 for a small cone or shaved ice--make Nathan’s a favorite place to enjoy dessert.

Providing people with cool, creamy goodness makes for a very nice place to work, too. “I love it here,” said Antenen.

“Everybody’s happy and in a good mood. It makes it fun to come to work.” Nathan’s employs 15 to 20 people, March through December. e dairy bar is open Sundays and Tuesday-ursday from 11 a.m.-9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

If Nathan’s is already your favorite destination for soft-serve ice cream and other cool treats, great! But if you’ve yet to try it, plug 8949 Mathis Avenue into your GPS and get going. I might even see you there!

Keasha Lee is a public relations professional, writer, and actress.

She resides in Woodbridge. Reach her by email at klee@princewilliamliving.com.

Soft Serve Trivia Q: Where was soft-serve ice cream first served?

A: There are conflicting stories about who actually discovered—perhaps accidentally—and served softserve ice cream. According to one story, Tom Carvel (of Carvel Ice Cream fame) was the first to sell it, in New York, after he got a flat tire and was forced to sell the melting ice cream from his truck. He sold his entire stock in two days. Another story credits John Fremont McCullough, founder of Dairy Queen, and his son with inventing a soft-serve formula that they convinced a friend to sell from his ice cream shop in Kankakee, Ill.— they sold more than 1,600 servings in two hours.

(Source: www.wikipedia.org) Q: What is the fat content of soft-serve ice cream, compared to traditional ice cream?

A: Soft-serve ice cream typically contains less milkfat— three to six percent—compared to traditional ice cream, which contains, on average, 10 to 18 percent milkfat.

Q: Is soft serve delicious?

A: It’s up to you to decide. (But we think so!)

prince william living July 2012 | 11

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on a high note

Nine Months In, Nine Months Out: Maternity for a Modern Mom

By Jennifer Rader, Contributing Writer

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regnant women are some of the best researchers and readers out there. After confirming and consulting with doctors, many make bookstores and online outlets their next stop as they search for the Holy Grail of what to expect in their lives and bodies for the next nine months and beyond.

But take Nine Months In, Nine Months Out, written by four highly knowledgeable, professional moms with four distinct backgrounds in women’s health, and readers may find the answers to a good amount of their questions. e book, as the authors emphasize, is one written by moms for moms.

Authors Angel Miller, MSN, CNM; Corry Matthews, MS; Sheila Kirkbride, MS; and Stacia Kelly, Ph.D., MHt, came together in early 2008 to form “ACSS,” an acronym of the authors’ first initials. ACSS began out of the skill sets each woman brought with them in order to address the subject of whole body health for women.

Miller is a certified nurse-midwife in practice since 1997 after working several years as a labor and delivery nurse. She provides much of the medical portion of prenatal care that the group discusses. Matthews, a former Prince William County resident who owns a sports nutrition business in the county, holds an MS in sports medicine and is an expert in fitness and nutrition with a specialization in pre- and postnatal fitness. She writes “Fit for Two,” a column for Oxygen magazine. Kirkbride obtained an MS in rehabilitation counseling focusing on substance abuse disorders, depression and anxiety prevention, health and nutrition and weight management. She looks at the post-partum psychological changes in women. Kelly, a Prince William County resident, has a doctorate in holistic health, is a Master Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist and a Certified Stress Management

14 | July 2012 prince william living

Specialist. Additionally, Kelly, a writer since her elementary years, has authored several books ranging from non-fiction reference to paranormal romance.

Matthews and Kelly initially met in 2005 at a gym in Lake Ridge during a time when they were both competing: Matthews as an IFBB (International Federation of BodyBuilders) Pro and Kelly in amateur competitions. ey supported each other through training and events.

Miller and Kirkbride met through Miller’s husband who was a member, along with Kirkbride, of a networking group in Prince William County. Kirkbride and Miller joined forces marketing nutritional supplements and providing prenatal classes for OB/GYN offices.

Pieces of a puzzle were falling into place, as it was obvious these four women individually shared a passion for women’s health. Kelly was introduced to Kirkbride and Miller through a mutual colleague of Miller’s at the time the two women were conducting prenatal classes. Kelly introduced Matthews to Kirkbride and Miller. After the

formation of ACSS, a full circle seemed to have been completed as Miller had the opportunity to be Matthews’ labor and delivery nurse for the birth of Matthews’ first child.

to-be. “I have dozens of friends who are moms and when I told them about this project, they responded with a resounding ‘YES!’” said Tagliaferri.

Where ACSS initially identified whole body health for women as their subject matter, the focus eventually narrowed into a pre- and postnatal specialization. e women’s initial intention was to present seminars of their expertise but they felt that a published piece was in order to bring the presentation and mission of ACSS together cohesively and have a reference resource available to the public.

e book is distinctive due to the second part, the “Nine Months Out” portion, where relaxation, exercise, stress management and nutrition are all discussed in detail. “We included the postpartum period, [whereas] most books only cover the first six weeks,” said Miller. “We felt this was essential because the first nine months after giving birth are crucial for physical, emotional and mental well-being.”

Ironcutter Media, out of Washington, D.C., appropriately published Nine Months In, Nine Months Out in May 2011, near Mother’s Day. Ironcutter Media’s Publisher, Alivia Tagliaferri, had met Matthews several years prior and knew of her dedication to fitness and nutrition. “When she (Matthews) told me about this project and her vision for it, we immediately began scripting plans to make the concept a reality,” said Tagliaferri. e book discusses common symptoms and general guidelines of pregnancy. Medications, tests, discomforts and sleeping difficulties are all addressed in the book, and the individual authors also go into more unique territory that is reflective of their personal expertise. Mom-focused fitness, nutrition, emotion and relaxation for the duration of a pregnancy, as well as the postpartum and postnatal periods are all part of Nine Months In, Nine Months Out; hence the title.

“We all have a passion for women’s health and postnatal (recovery),” said Kirkbride. “And, market availability did not focus on wellness and nutrition (of the mother),” explained Kelly and Matthews. Feeling there were ample resources that concentrated on fetal and baby health and development, the women of ACSS worked to keep the book strongly momfocused, only touching on baby information. “We wanted to provide a resource guide through pregnancy and postpartum that was easy to read, understand and follow, and not overwhelming,” added Miller.

A driving force behind the book was to provide women with a holistic approach to pregnancy so that every woman can have all the knowledge to make the best choices possible. ey wanted to make a difference for women during this milestone in their lives.

“We want a woman to truly enjoy her pregnancy,” said Matthews.

Miller’s motivation came from her daily work. “I am a certified nurse-midwife who is passionate about giving women options in their health care, especially in childbirth,” said Miller. “And, I never get tired of being part of this miracle.”

Kirkbride drew from her mother’s 32-year career as a nurse in an OB/GYN practice. She learned, from her mother’s work, how necessary good prenatal care really is. “I feel a woman’s mental and emotional health during pregnancy is just as important as her physical health,” said Kirkbride. “It is critical women feel supported and have the tools they need to stay positive and energized through this special time in their lives.”

Additionally, Tagliaferri felt the concept of four female healthcare professionals writing content specific to their sphere of expertise and personal insights would be a value to many moms-

e authors offer medically-based solutions instead of just stating symptoms. For example, actual relaxation and stressmanagement techniques are discussed. e book also details recommendations exclusive to each trimester and follows up with monthly postpartum suggestions in meals, serving size and fitness, among other tips.

One Amazon.com reviewer felt the rare insight of relaxation, stress-management and nutrition were the most helpful. “e nutrition information is presented in, what I feel, is a nontraditional way for a pregnancy book,” she wrote. e main goal of the authors in writing this book was to set women up for a successful pregnancy in order to ensure a better postnatal experience. As a certified nurse-midwife having delivered over 1500 babies in her 15-year career, Miller wants women to have the necessary but simple information every mom seeks, regardless of a first birth or fourth, without complicated medical jargon.

“We all wished we had this information ourselves,” agreed Kelly, Kirkbride and Matthews.

“We wanted to make it more positive information giving the emotional side and not just the physical,” said Kirkbride.

In comparison to other books on the subject, Kelly emphasized, “We wanted to keep the ‘scary’ to a minimum and offer factual, practical information.”

Miller stated, to the point, “Pregnancy is a natural condition and not a medical issue.”

What you read in Nine Months In, Nine Months Out includes personal experiences of either the authors or clients they have helped. And, to create a personal reading relationship with their audience, each author provided her own birth experience at the end of the book. e book is distributed through Miller’s private practice as well as Matthew’s sports nutrition business and is listed as suggested reading by Shady Grove Adventist Hospital and the Cord Blood Registry. e authors have donated copies to the INOVA Fairfax NICU prenatal ward and military families at Virginia installations. It can also be found for purchase on Amazon.com and at Barnes and Noble stores. e authors also have a website with follow-up blogs and tools to further assist mothers or mothers-to-be on their journey. (continues on page 17) prince william living July 2012 | 15

home & hearth

residential. commercial. interior. exterior.

Bring Value to Your Home with an Outdoor Room

By Denise Smith, Design and Sales Consultant, FA Design Build, Woodbridge he front porch has become a symbol of what is good about America. It’s as much a part of who we are as apple pie and Chevrolet. And rightly so—no other place can represent the perfect balance of public discussion and private reflection like the front porch.

T

Outdoor living areas ranked third in upgrades wanted most in homes, according to an April 2012 survey from Better Homes and Gardens, and the home improvement industry is responding.

Creating an outdoor space can be simple or elaborate, and the investment may be large or small. But whether it is a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen, a sunroom, or a quaint gazebo or simple deck, these improvement projects bring value to the home.

While our parents may have had to make a choice between an iron table or a creaky wooden swing hung from a metal chain, today’s consumers can choose furnishings that rival any inside the home. Technological advances have provided low-cost, long-wearing resins and fabrics to the market that have unsurpassed abilities to withstand the challenges presented by constant exposure to the elements.

The introduction of resin wicker sparked a surge in the outdoor furniture market. Resin wickers are durable and virtually indestructible. Retailers from Target to high-end Georgetown boutiques have outdoor sofas and armchairs that look as beautiful inside as out. Solution-dyed acrylic fabrics, such as those sold by Sunbrella, combine intricate designs with vibrant colors and withstand years of UV exposure before they begin to fade or break down.

And no outdoor sitting area is complete without a rug.

Recycled polypropylene turns milk jugs into long-lasting, mold- and stain-resistant area rugs. These outdoor rugs are inexpensive and beautiful; placing one under a sitting arrangement of furniture instantly creates the feel of a comfortable sitting room, even if that room is just a slab of concrete.

Here in Prince William County, the days may be too hot in July to enjoy an outdoor space without shade, but nights can be pleasant, especially if there is a breeze to keep the biting bugs away. And Autumn is right around the corner, whether we like it or not.

Denise Smith is a design and sales consultant for FA Design Build, in Woodbridge. She can be reached by email at dsmith@fadesignbuild.com.

16 | July 2012 prince william living

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(continued from page 15) î “ese supplemental pieces can be found at www.9monthsin9monthsout.com.

Tagliaferri believes trust is an important component for women and, in particular, for moms when it comes to health. î “e need and ability to rely on others for guidance, mentorship and information cannot be underestimated, especially at critical times like motherhood, when uncertainty can become a driving emotion. “Nine Months In, Nine Months Out, was authored with that trust in mind,â€? said Tagliaferri.

Much of what is found in print is often focused primarily on the life growing inside. Women are often left wondering “But what happens to me and what do I do with myself?� or “How do I get back to the ‘pre-pregnancy me’?� Miller, Matthews, Kirkbride and Kelly answer those momcentered questions and so much more in Nine Months In, Nine Months Out.

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 and can be reached at jrader@princewilliamliving.com

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going places GOING PLACES (AND NOT STOPPING):

Mary Lopez and the Independence Empowerment Center

By Audrey Harman, Contributing Writer

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rowing up as a “military brat,” Dr. Mary Lopez has lived in such countries as Spain, Argentina and Panama. In the midst of her travels, she spent her high school years here in Prince William County, graduating from Woodbridge Senior High School in 1976 before her family moved again, to New Mexico. “I never thought I’d be back in Virginia, let alone Prince William County,” Lopez said.

What brought her back to our neck of the woods, to her current role as executive director of the Independence Empowerment Center, based in Manassas, was just another step in her journey towards helping others.

When Lopez was a senior at Gonzaga University, she suddenly went blind in her right eye. It “scared the heck out of me,” she said, and left her very uncertain as to how she would manage graduate school going from 20/40 vision to 20/400 in her right eye. “Not that it can’t be done,” she added, “but people who grow up blind have different abilities than people who suddenly become blind.”

Her abrupt blindness was linked to multiple sclerosis, or MS. What pushed her to carry on was when her sister suggested that Mary move back home so their mother could take care of her.

Lopez wanted to remain independent, and she wanted to continue to live out her goals. She then returned to Gonzaga, her vision reappeared, and she got accepted into her dream school, Northwestern University. As Lopez said, “ere was no stopping me now.”

Lopez obtained her doctorate in sociology with the support of her peers and professors. While writing her dissertation, “Exercising control in the face of uncertainty: Multiple sclerosis and other chronic illnesses,” she was learning things from other people with MS as well as living the hardship herself. “Every time I talked to other people with MS, I would learn new things to bring up at my doctor’s appointments,” said Lopez. Her graduate work focused on advocating for people with chronic illnesses and disabilities and helping them control such an uncertain experience. She said she never could have completed her dissertation without her father,

18 | July 2012 prince william living

who acted as her research assistant and did all of the manual labor she could not do herself.

After completing her Ph.D., Lopez went on to work for different centers in California and on boards to help people with disabilities find their place in the community. She initially worked with getting people out of nursing homes and living independently. In 2005 she learned that the Independence Empowerment Center (IEC) was in need of new leadership. Within a few months she moved back to Prince William to became their new executive director, and has been there ever since. e IEC’s motto and practice is to “encourage, support, and provide options to people with disabilities.” Located in Manassas next to Prince William Hospital, the IEC works with “people of all kinds of disabilities from newborns to people over 100 years old,” said Lopez. Its “10 Principles of Independent Living” are: civil rights, consumerism, de-institutionalization, de-medicalization, self-help, advocacy, barrier-removal, consumer control, peer role models, and cross-disability.

As Lopez noted, “Everyone knows someone with a disability,” thus everyone knows firsthand how important it is for people with disabilities to have the assistance they may need to continue to live in the community. Wheelchair access to restaurants, menus available in braille, and interpreters for the hearing impaired in doctor’s offices are just some of the rights for which IEC advocates.

Lopez said that the IEC works with many different types of disabilities, even ones considered “invisible.” ough Lopez herself uses a cane, because, as she said, “I wobble, and I don’t want people to think I am inebriated,” and in her case, “the cane explains more than it detracts from who I am,” some people show no outward signs of a disability. e IEC respects everyone’s privacy when they come into the center, and it is up to the consumer how much they want to reveal, for all are treated equally and are advocated for. “We do whatever we can to help our consumers remain independent for [themselves] and in the community,” said Lopez.

A lot of the work for equal rights for people with disabilities was modeled after the Civil Rights Movement. In 1990 the Americans with Disabilities Act (or ADA) was passed after a long fight, “both for and against the rights,” said Lopez. e ADA envisions a world just as accessible for people as disabilities as it is for people without them. e first center like the IEC was started 40 years ago in Berkeley, California, and the IEC has worked to uphold their same concept of “nothing about us without us.” As Lopez said, [local government] shouldn’t hold a meeting for accessibility without the people they’re making decisions about.”

on how they will enter the community once they graduate.

Every July, the IEC hosts an annual ADA Fair. For six years the fair has been held with the purpose to educate the community on their mission and to allow different vendors to set up booths and promote their services to those with disabilities. A band has performed annually since the third year, and the Lions Club brings their vision and hearing van. is year’s ADA Fair will take place July 14 at the Harris Pavilion in Manassas. For more information about the event and the IEC in general, visit www.ieccil.org/home.

Lopez advocates for local businesses to know what is expected of them as far as upholding the stipulations of ADA, and also for people with disabilities to become familiar with their rights and to come to the IEC for help. By being extremely committed to the IEC’s philosophy, Lopez is someone in Prince William County who is letting nothing—not even MS—stop her from going places.

Author Audrey Harman has a B.A. in English and Spanish from Hollins University and is currently working toward an M.A. in publications design at the University of Baltimore. She resides with her family in Woodbridge. Harman can be reached by email at aharman@princewilliamliving.com.

More than half of the IEC’s own staff and board are people with disabilities. Since they work with so many people from similar backgrounds, they understand each other’s hardships. “No one ever doubts the experiences I have with my disability,” Lopez said.

“I deal with a lot of fatigue and the heat only exacerbates my illness. When I do get fatigued, I slur and stutter, but no one in the office makes fun of me…though I do laugh at myself.”

Several of Lopez's coworkers verify her upbeat sense of humor and dedication to their center’s cause. Jane Burnette, an IEC employee of 4 years, said that Lopez is a “lovely funny person, very involved in nonprofit community work…She always has a blast and is so funny, which is a great attitude to have, especially when dealing with things that are sad.” Twelve-year Prince William County resident Roberta McEachern added, “Mary brought the IEC to the forefront and has been instrumental in getting our name out in the community. Mary is a good boss, and sometimes more laughing goes on in the office than work, and we do a lot of work! You’ve got to laugh around here.”

Lopez was in the inaugural class (2008) of Leadership Prince William and remains as involved as possible in alumni events. She is always willing to give presentations and her work with the IEC is well received by Social Services. e IEC does encourage the medical community to refer people who may need their help to them, but primarily people seek the IEC’s help. As director, Lopez meets with the Prince William Area Coalition for Human Services monthly, and they support each other in achieving various missions together, such as counseling high school students with disabilities

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prince william living July 2012 | 19

giving back

A river runs rough It: Water Conservation and recreation in Our Own Backyard

P

By Michelle Hurrell, Contributing Writer

erhaps it is the smell of the fresh air, or maybe it is the freedom that comes with soaking up the sun, sans cell phone, while paddling on the Occoquan Water Trail (OWT)—created in 2001 by the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NVRPA) with the assistance of a grant from the Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network; it was recognized by the U.S. Department of the Interior as a National Recreation Trail in the National Trails System on May 26, 2009. Regardless of the reason, though, the feeling one gets on the OWT is magical.

On the OWT, you don’t have to multitask; you just have to paddle.

And how often can you focus on a repetitive, almost hypnotic motion without interruption? Not often enough. at is what the Occoquan Water Trail League (OWL)—a community-based group of active paddlers and advocates of the OWT—as well as the Prince William County Park Authority and Prince William Trails and Streams Coalition (PWTSC) are trying to change. e main goal of the OWL is not only to emphasize the enjoyment that can be found on the trail, but also the need for its conservation. e organization’s mission: “To work with volunteers, government agencies, and landowners to promote resource awareness, encourage environmental stewardship, and improve access along the water trail.” OWL, along with interns and other volunteers, paddled the entire 40 miles to develop the OWT Regional Assessment, which evaluates the condition of the trail and reports possible areas of improvement.

“With thanks to the Fairfax Regional Parks Authority, the Occoquan Water Trail League is a wonderful opportunity for

20 | July 2012 prince william living

people from both Prince William and Fairfax counties to work together for stewardship of our lovely water resource and to promote responsible recreation and environmental education for all our residents,” said Mary Zamon, OWL chair. “e Occoquan trail unites us from its origin near Bull Run park along 40 miles of splendid waterway to near Mason Neck, where it joins the Potomac and becomes integrated into the Chesapeake watershed. It is a pleasure to work with park employees and users, homeowners, businesses and many others for these purposes to benefit Prince William and Fairfax life.”

Judi and Mike Lenehan, who moved to Woodbridge in 2007, have been the heart of OWL since 2009. ey first noticed litter in the river along the edge of their property and began using their kayaks to paddle the trail, removing rubbish along the way. Public recognition of OWL has grown with Judi acting as vice chair and Mike as treasurer and the organization’s webmaster.

An organization with a goal similar to OWL’s is the PWTSC, which began in 2006 and became a non-profit in 2008. e goal of PWTSC, which now is supported by hundreds of volunteers, is to connect all of the county’s communities with trails and streams. ey organize several water trail cleanups every year; in 2011 alone, volunteers collected 22,000 pounds of trash, from plastic grocery bags to pink flamingo lawn ornaments.

PWTSC also works in conjunction with the Adopt-a-Stream program. (Organizations that want to participate in clearing litter from their local bodies of water can find more information at www.pwswcd.org/adopt-a-stream.html.) PWTSC president Zoe

Alliance website, “Over half Prince William’s total county population, located generally in the eastern portion of the county, depends on the Occoquan Reservoir for about 17 million gallons of clean drinking water each day,” and “West Prince William and Fairfax residents drink a mix of water from the Occoquan Reservoir and the Potomac River...”

Photo courtesy Sean Floars

Mike (left) and Judi (center) Lenehan with Lakeridge Park Manager Jane England (right).

Vitter, of Woodbridge, who is such an enthusiast of the outdoors that she got married, barefoot, in Leesylvania State Park, wants everyone to know that “the storm drains in our older neighborhoods flow directly into the creeks of those neighborhoods. For Dale City, it is Neabsco Creek, and for old Woodbridge it is Marumsco Creek. ere are no catches or water filtration systems between trash left on the street and the Potomac River, then the Chesapeake Bay and finally the ocean.”

Not only do litter and chemicals affect our wildlife, but it is also important to remember that, per the Prince William Conservation

Too often, we look to West Virginia or Colorado to find a place to canoe or kayak, forgetting that there are miles of waterways along the OWT just waiting to be discovered. Adjacent to these waterways are many parks—such as Lake Ridge Park—which offer not only boat launches, but canoe, paddleboat and kayak rentals. ey offer a variety of children’s programs each summer that involve not only water fun but also OWT ecosystem preservation techniques. Judi Lenehan helps not only by teaching local children what they can discover in and along the trail, but also by using a creative approach to instill in others a feeling of ownership of the water trail and an urge to protect it. “Eco Camp” and “Paddling Camp” for children of all age groups are just two of the camps being offered this summer at Lake Ridge Park. e most exciting program that includes both Fairfax and Prince William counties is the Healthy Paddles Event, which was partially inspired by the National Environmental Educational Foundation’s Children and Nature Initiative, the goal of which is to encourage pediatricians to prescribe outdoor activities to families and inform them of local nature sites. In Healthy Paddles, families and individuals make a commitment to either hike or paddle over (continues on page 23)

prince william living July 2012 | 21

22 | July 2012 prince william living

(continued from page 21)

(continued from page 3)

several miles to reach an ideal goal of 40 miles (the mileage of the OWT), and those who succeed will receive recognition and a small reward. Other goals that are recognized in the Healthy Paddles program are 10 miles and 20 miles. Participants can register online via the event’s intuitive and user-friendly website at www.healthypaddle.org.

Want to check out a new restaurant this month? Why not try Mackey’s American Pub, located in Manassas? Brookshire writes about Mackey’s in this month’s Local Flavor (page 26).

Participants in Healthy Paddles can build a personal health itinerary using the tools provided and enter their progress. e official kick-off event was in May at Occoquan Regional Park, where the park’s manager, John Houser, and Lake Ridge Park Manager Jane England answered questions and shared advice about how to enjoy the OWT. At the event, OWL contributing member Jim Zawlocki, along with other members of OWL, helped adults and children learn to navigate the water in kayaks. (It's still early in the season, so there is plenty of time to register and participate in the wrap-up event on Oct. 27, which is also being held at Occoquan Regional Park.)

In addition to promoting a healthy lifestyle, Healthy Paddles raises conservation awareness. Judi explained OWL’s mission quite eloquently: “For each child we get into a kayak or out on the trail, we get a chance to share something we love with them. I want to plant a moment in their heart that will grow into a lifetime of loving the outdoors. Because what you don't know, you don't protect, and this is our opportunity to introduce them to the Occoquan Water Trail. ere is a purpose in our actions.”

Looking to get to some home improvement projects done this month? en you’ll want to read this month’s Home & Hearth column, by Denise Smith, design and sales consultant with FA Design Build, in Woodbridge (page 16).

Want to spend money a little more wisely? Check out the Your Finances column this month, by Prince William Living President Rebecca Barnes. is month, she addresses the importance of insurance. “Insurance is a very low cost way for you to pay up front and collect when needed to cover insure asset losses,” said Farmers insurance agent Mike Johnson, of Manassas.

Last but not least, don’t miss this month’s Tambourines & Elephants,

by DeeDee Corbitt Sauter (page 35), in which she recalls a recent shopping trip she took with her two children. As always, hilarity abounds in her column, which this month she has entitled, “No Bones About It.” We hope you enjoy this month’s issue of Prince William Living magazine. May you have a safe and happy Fourth of July!

Sincerely, Elizabeth Kirkland Editor in Chief and Publisher

As the sun sets over the water in Lake Ridge Park, one cannot help but be reminded of the peace and joy that can be found sitting alone with only the geese and ducks, surrounded by green trees and water. In a time where gadgets promise the world to us at our fingertips, it is easy to forget the real beauty of the world outside.

David Bolling writes, in How to Save a River: Handbook for Citizen Action (©1994, Island Press), “Choosing to save a river is more often an act of passion than of careful calculation. You make the choice because the river has touched your life in an intimate and irreversible way, because you are unwilling to accept its loss.”

!

As Benjamin Franklin once said, “When the well’s dry, we know the worth of water.” Which words will describe Occoquan Water Trail’s future are only ours to choose.

Michelle Hurrell is a freelance writer and a recovery support specialist for PRS Inc. She teaches classes at their Recovery Academy, helping those with intellectual disabilities and individuals with mental illness or substance abuse challenges reclaim and achieve personal and professional success. Hurrell can be reached by email at mhurrell@princewilliamliving.com.

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prince william living July 2012 | 25

local flavor

Hear Ye, Hear Ye! Mackey’s American Pub

A public house that is fundamental to the culture of Old Town Manassas

By Cindy Brookshire, Contributing Writer

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tep inside the dark coolness of Mackey’s American Pub and you know right away that owner Dan Mackey does not color inside the lines. In fact, upstairs where there’s no smoking, you can draw on the Corian table tops with chalk if you want.

Here’s to you, all you died in this war Where brother fought brother to shore Up the homes that you made And the lives that you laid Down in faith, in our thoughts evermore.

A Civil War toast of remembrance —Lester V. Horwitz “We used to call it Romper Room Mondays,” customer Leslie German said, “because we’d meet a lot of other couples up here and our kids would play together while we talked.” German and her husband Ryan have been coming to Mackey’s since Leslie was pregnant with the couple’s now-four-year-old daughter Rylie.

Mackey gives the child a boost so she can ring a brass bell above the bar. Today, the Germans are celebrating that Leslie’s mother, Sharon Henson, and her friend, Cindy Hall, have just bought a house in Manassas and will be moving from Beckley, W.Va., soon.

“We love Mackey’s,” said Sharon, who had been commuting every other month to visit her daughter and family. “Everybody here’s great, and the food is awesome. Get the hamburger with the grilled onions on it.”

26 | July 2012 prince william living

Photography by Linda Hughes

e décor is not farm tool Americana. ere are no washboards and lanterns hanging from the ceiling; just meaningful stuff real people have given Mackey because they love him, they love the place and they love the people who frequent it. Even an American flag, signed by the Marines who flew it over Fallujah in Iraq, is hammered to the wall.

Owner Dan Mackey, holding his customer’s four-year-old daughter, Rylie German, with her extended family; from left, Cindy Hall, father Ryan German, mother Leslie German and grandmother Sharon Henson.

Downstairs, you’re drawn to the bar, with its wooden stools, happy hour patrons and liberal smoking policy. e customer base is broad—age 21 to 80—and breakfast is served all day long, from11:30 until 2 a.m., daily, along with stick-to-the-ribs pub grub. But it’s the plentiful draft beer and socializing that keeps people coming back. Bud Light, Miller Lite and Coors Light are popular fare; try all 16 draughts and Mackey lets you stand on a ladder to sign your name on the ceiling upstairs. While 16 high-def TVs bring patrons everything from the NHL playoffs and NASCAR to the summer Olympics, house favorites range from Sons of Anarchy to Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Yes, toast has been thrown.

And finally, there’s the food. e Drunken Ribeye and Drunken Delmonico are the hands-down #1 biggest attractions. Chef Ted Booth hand-cuts 12 or 14 ounces of fresh meat, glazes it with

bourbon and cooks it until it arrives, tender and juicy, hot at your table. One bite and you are in heaven.

Booth’s crab cakes, bursting with lump crab meat, get a lot of attention, too, as does his bourbon-glazed grilled salmon, baby back ribs and broiled seafood platter. “We certainly do sell a lot of wings and sandwiches but those first four and the steaks are the ones that draw them in droves,” said Mackey.

of all restaurants go out of business after a year.”

“Part of the reason we like Mackey’s so much is because Dan supports live local music,” said Erick omas, guitarist with the Manassas-based Harlen Simple. “A lot of places have closed up or just stopped offering live music, and gone to DJs. at’s a shame.”

Now Dan shakes up the menu every nine months, runs regular specials, and Booth makes everything from scratch so there’s flexibility to experiment. Dan features a DJ on Mondays, Tuesdays and ursdays; Super Dave’s Karaoke Show on Fridays, live music on Saturdays and movies on Sunday. Special parties are often booked; after the May 1 general election, several political parties gathered to celebrate or drown their sorrows.

Harlen Simple fans give the band (omas, bass player Kenny Morrow, percussionist Ricky Coleman, second guitarist Jesse Guay, and lead singer Travis Williams) energy and crowd support at Mackey’s, where they play anything from Allman Brothers and Sublime to Bob Marley and Social Distortion. Harlen Simple recently released their third full-length CD, Incident, and is booked to perform at Mackey’s on August 11.

On Saturday, Sept. 15, Mackey’s will participate in Historic Manassas’s 2nd annual Bands, Brew & BBQ Festival, which will feature live entertainment, a local BBQ competition, and a number of specialty vendors set up on Main and Battle Streets, from the railroad tracks to Center Street, as well as the Center for the Arts at the Candy Factory and Mackey's parking lot from noon to 7 p.m.

“It’s one of those gathering places I prefer to hang out at when I’m not playing with the band,” explained omas. “It’s just your local mom-and-pop bar. ere’s not many of those left in Manassas.

You can eat dinner and stick around to watch a hockey game, listen to a band or play karaoke. If you want a sterile experience, go to Buffalo Wild Wings. Don’t go to a building that’s 150 years old and changed hands about 50 times.”

“e biggest event is Fourth of July,” said Dan. “We’re one of the best spots to watch the fireworks because they shoot them off just over the tracks at Osbourn High School. e place will be packed for dinner that night. en, everyone runs out to the parking lot to set up lawn chairs and watch the fireworks show. Afterwards we offer a DJ or karaoke inside.”

Located at 9412 Main Street in Old Town Manassas, the pub is a former historic warehouse. Mackey opened the restaurant six years ago with his wife, Anne, a Rosa Parks Elementary kindergarten teacher. His background includes stints at three corporate restaurant chains, where he gained the experience and knowledge base to strike out on his own.

“Knowing what I wanted to do was easy; understanding what Old Town Manassas wanted me to do took some time to figure out,” admitted Dan. “You can have the best idea in the world, but if it doesn’t fit the neighborhood, you will fail. at’s why 90 percent

So raise a glass to the public house, to all who gather there, and liberty.

He who did well in war, just earns the right To being doing well in peace.

—Robert Browning

A teetotaler, freelance writer and Manassas resident Cindy Brookshire nevertheless appreciates life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

prince william living July 2012 | 27

family fun

Cool Tides and Good Vibes at the Raingutter Regatta

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By Boyd Lillard, Contributing Writer

In either the summer or fall, Cub Scouts, in the dens of Tiger Cubs, Bobcats, Wolves, Bears, and Webelos, come together in their pack to race their custom-crafted vessels. e races are held at pack meeting places such as elementary schools or churches in their districts, where an average of 100 -150 people gather to compete and watch. (Prince William County is divided into two scouting districts; Bull Run to the west and Occoquan to the east.) e scouts, or "captains,” compete by blowing the sails of their miniature vessels down the length of parallel10-foot rain gutters. e ultimate winner for the pack is decided in either a single- or double-elimination tournament. On occasion the rain gutter may be substituted with a small children’s pool or a controlled, tiny body of water one may find in a local park; scouts then refer to them as Rainwater Regattas. e Raingutter Regatta is one of the derby racing events— alongside the ever-popular Pinewood Derby, where scouts craft a wooden racecar, and Space Derby, where a rocket ship is built and propelled down a zip line—and has been a staple of junior scouting life in Prince William County for almost 20 years. e events are designed to be opportunities for parents and son to craft a vessel together as a bonding experience. Rules for the building of the boats are fairly simple: the hull of the balsa wood-bodied craft is to be between six-and-a-half and seven inches; the mast between six and seven inches bottom to top. e sails cannot be enlarged, but may be trimmed, as well as decorated by the scout.

28 | July 2012 prince william living

Photos courtesy Sean Floars

rowds of spectators have gathered. Everybody is breathless with excitement—except for the racers, that is—as two custom-designed sailing vessels speed down smooth, clear waters. At one point, it looks like there is a sure winner, but wait! e other boat picks up a gust of lung-powered wind and is being propelled closer to the vessel in the lead, surely surpassing it! ese are master boatmen, and it will be a close race. It’s regatta time again, but did you have to travel to St. omas, or even the closest marina? No, because you’re watching the Raingutter Regatta!

“Captains” can personalize their boats by adding sailors or faux weaponry, and they are allowed to paint however they wish. e most popular motifs for the boats are pirate and sports themes. e catamaran is preferred among many competitors as it is a better balanced boat and doesn’t tip over as easy as the basic sailboat design. Building kits are either provided by the Cub Scout dens or can be purchased at official Boy Scouts of America Scout Shops (the nearest being in Springfield). Most unit rules state that only official BSA Scout Shop kits may be used.

Some units, like Pack 1831, which meets at Sudley Elementary in Manassas, do things a little differently. “We actually make it more of a participation thing,” said Stephanie Messenger, former committee chair and wife of Matthew Messenger, the pack’s Cubmaster. She likes to emphasize the fun aspect of the regatta: “We make the boats the day of the event.” ere are awards for first, second and third place, but in Pack 1831 the emphasis is on having a good time. “We get kids that draw aliens and we get kids that draw pirates on them,” she said.

“All the derbies existed for different reasons,” Messenger added.

Without question the Raingutter Regatta lacks the namerecognition and prestige of an event like the Pinewood Derby, and Yergey attributes this to funding. Cub Scout groups aim to be inclusive and want to charge the least amount possible for annual dues. With only a certain amount of dues money per child, leaders have to pick and choose what activities they will implement for their annual budget, which is why the other derbies usually take precedence.

“e Raingutter Regatta is nice because it can be held indoors or outdoors. It can be run in a traditional rain gutter or in a creek. It also gives kids the opportunity to get wet.”

Last summer, 1831 showed itself to be environmentally conscious by holding a “Recycle Regatta,” where boats were made of only recycled materials such as soda bottles and cans. At their previous pack meeting, young scouts were helped in their collecting of recycled materials. Last month, 1831 used the traditional rain gutter for their races.

“Everything the kids do with Scouts is teamwork, where they are told to sit down, take direction. is is the one time where they can scream, cheer on their teammates, and have a ball,” said Tad Yergey, Cubmasterof Pack 1194, which meets at Nokesville Elementary. “I personally enjoy it because one of the things we’re trying to instill in the kids is that learning is fun.”

Yet despite this, “e kids love it, and it is something they are doing themselves; they’re building the boats and blowing them down the water,” Yergey said. And his pack isn’t pushing the regatta off the calendar anytime soon. Pack 1194 will hold their annual regatta this November. He recalled what happened when he contemplated moving the regatta to the summer: parents of his pack took issue, as they and their scouts would miss the event while taking family vacation.

“I had parents calling me, telling me they will move their child to another pack if the regatta is moved,” said Yergey.

Information on Bull Run and Occoquan scouting events can be found by visiting the National Capital Area Council Boy Scouts of America website at www.boyscouts-ncac.org and clicking on the “districts” link.

Author Boyd Lillard studied religion at Shenandoah University in Winchester, Va. He has worked as a contributing writer and editor in the nonprofit field and currently resides in Sterling, Va.

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prince william living July 2012 | 29

your finances CYA – Covering Your Assets

COLLEGE FUNDING

By Rebecca Barnes, Prince William Living President e work hard, we save, we build a future, but what if that future could be taken away suddenly? Insurance is a form of asset protection—making you whole again when something unforeseen happens. Whether it’s your car, your home, your health, ability to work, or life, there is a form of coverage to help you. How do you know what to choose? How much should you get? And from whom should you get it?

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According to the Insurance Information Institute, there are five top mistakes people make when choosing insurance: 1. Insuring a home for its real estate value and contents, rather than the cost of rebuilding. You want to have enough money to rebuild and replace all of your belongings. If you wish to save money, raise your deductible.

2. Choosing an insurance company by price alone. You should choose by financial security of the company and quality of customer service. Find an agent that will go over all your insurance coverage needs at least once a year.

3. Not having flood insurance. Flooding is not covered by standard home owners insurance. It is a government program sold through selected insurance companies.

4. Only buying the state minimum for car insurance. If you wish to save money, drop collision coverage on cars worth $1,000 or less—do not buy coverage based on your car value, but based on the damage it could do to others.

5. Neglecting to buy renters insurance. Renters insurance is inexpensive and can protect you against fire, theft, and liability protection. Best of all, it can replace your belongings and cover any repairs needed.

According to Farmers insurance agent Mike Johnson, of Manassas, “Insurance is a very low cost way for you to pay up front and collect when needed to cover insured asset losses.” Johnson, who has been in the insurance business since 1994, advises, “Proper insurance coverage will assure your family’s standard of living to a given point in time.”

Regularly reviewing your insurance needs is the best way to protect your assets and build your future. For more information about properly insuring yourself and your property, visit the Insurance Information Institute at www.iii.org. To contact Mike Johnson of Farmers Insurance, email him at mjohnson6@farmersagent.com, or fan him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ MJJEFarmersInsurance.

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calendar Dale City 4th of July Parade July 4, 10 a.m.-Noon Dale Boulevard | Dale City Join the people of Dale City as they continue a time-honored tradition in celebrating the country’s birthday. And be sure to join them after the parade for the Family Fun event! To be in the parade, contact Ernestine Jenkins, the Dale City Parade Committee chairman, at (703) 670-6907.

Celebrate America July 4, 4-10 p.m.

Old Town Manassas Celebrate America this Independence Day with one of the largest fireworks displays in Northern Virginia! It’s another all-American beach party in Old Town Manassas, sponsored by the City of Manassas! e party starts at 4 p.m. in the streets surrounding the Old Town train depot, the Harris Pavilion and the Manassas Museum. ere will be great rides for the kids starting at 2 p.m., food concessions, and a red, white and blue hayride! is event is free and open to the public. Be sure to bring your lawn chairs and blankets and come early to get the best seats on the Manassas Museum Lawn for the firework display at 9:15 p.m.!

For more information, visit www.visitmanassas.org, or contact Sarah McHugh, either by phone at (703) 361-6599, or by email at smchugh@historicmanassasinc.org.

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Celebrate America! In the City of Manassas Park July 4, 7-10 p.m.

City of Manassas Park, Parks and Recreation 9300 Signal View Drive | Manassas Park e City of Manassas Park, Parks and Recreation, invites you to the July 4th celebration at Signal Hill Park. Join in this family-friendly fireworks event. Limited on-site parking is just $5 per car, and parking is available in the Manassas Park City Hall parking lot. Omnilink Pick-ups are also available at stops along Manassas Drive. For more information, visit www.cityofmanassaspark.va.

32 | July 2012 prince william living

Stream Restoration Tour July 7, 9 a.m.-Noon Andrew Leitch Park 5301 Dale Boulevard | Woodbridge Listen as Tom Dombrowski, of Prince William County Watershed Management, talks about the county’s stream restoration process and goals, and visit a stream restoration site where you will examine and discuss the restoration technique and determine the success of the project based on the established project goals. Admission is free. For more information, email alliance@pwconserve.org, or visit www.pwconserve.org.

SummerSounds Concerts - Annapolis Bluegrass Coalition, Presented by Center for the Arts July 7, 6:30-8 p.m.

Harris Pavilion 9116 Center Street | Manassas Each year, the Center for the Arts, in partnership with Micron Technology Foundation, the City of Manassas and the Harris Pavilion, offer a series of free concerts. e popular concerts are scheduled on alternate Saturday evenings throughout the summer. Bring your chairs, blankets, and picnics to enjoy these concerts with your friends and neighbors! Performing at this month’s concert is the Annapolis Bluegrass Coalition. For more information, visit www.visitmanassas.org.

Family Night – Historic Toys and Games July 11, 6-8 p.m.

Ben Lomond Historic Site 10321 Sudley Manor Drive | Manassas Before Barbie came along, most children had to make do with much simpler toys.

Learn about the history of Civil War era toys while you make your very own, and enjoy games from the 1800s. For more information, visit www.pwcgov.org/historicpreservation.

Admission is just $2.

Family History – The Revolution Comes to Rippon July 14-15, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Rippon Lodge 15520 Blackburn Road | Woodbridge www.pwcgov.org/historicpreservation Rippon Lodge was home to omas Blackburn, a Patriot of the American Revolution. Revolutionary War soldiers will be camped at Rippon Lodge for this event. Visit Rippon Lodge and see camp life, drill with soldiers, sample camp food, and join the ranks. Activities and crafts for kids will take place throughout the day. Admission is $7 per person; children under six are free.

Laundry in the 19th Century July 14, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Ben Lomond Historic Site 10321 Sudley Manor Drive | Manassas Today, we set it and forget it, but back in the 19th century, doing your laundry was labor intensive and time consuming. Join the staff of Ben Lomond in doing some laundry with two washtubs, a washboard, soapy water and some elbow grease in this fun, hands-on program. Afterward, you'll gain a new appreciation for your washing machine! Admission is just $5 per person; children under six are free.

For more information, visit www.pwcgov.org/historicpreservation.

Bird Walk at Merrimac Farm Wildlife Management Area July 29, 8-11 a.m.

Merrimac Farm, Stone House Visitor Center 10520 Deepwood Lane | Nokesville Join the Merrimac Farm Wildlife Management staff and look for birds and other wildlife, especially butterflies and dragonflies. Travel through the uplands to the edge of the floodplain, covering a variety of habitats, including open fields and woodland edges. Everyone is welcome, and admission is free. Dress for the weather, bring binoculars and cameras. For more information visit www.pwconserve.org, or email alliance@pwconserve.org.

Discover Prince William & Manassas

VisitPWC.com

From the Old Dominion Speedway to a Night with the Potomac Nationals, Prince William and Manassas are the Places to Be e are fortunate to have so many wonderful outdoor venues and activities in Prince William and Manassas, and what better time to enjoy them than during W the summer? Get in the fast lane, catch a ball while enjoying America’s favorite pastime and cruise down the river all in Prince William and Manassas!

Get your checkered flags ready and head to the Old Dominion Speedway for a night of racing with NASCAR’s future stars. The organization spans 42 acres and includes a speedway track, drag strip and 6,000-seat grandstand.

Connect with nature and Occoquan Mayor Earnie Porta during a kayak trip down the Occoquan River. Through October, Porta will host guided kayak tours on the first and third Saturdays of the month.

If you are looking for a little more adventure, strap on a helmet and knee pads and test Prince William’s newest skatepark at Veterans Memorial Regional Park, in Woodbridge. The Scott D. Eagles Skatepark, which opened in May, is for both inline skaters and skateboarders.

And don’t forget to stop at one of the county’s largest outdoor events—the Prince William County Fair. Now in its 63rd year, the Prince William County Fair is the largest in Virginia. It will run Aug. 10-18 this year.

I hope to see some of you out and about the community this summer! For a complete list of events and attractions, visit us at visitpwc.com.

Ann Marie Maher is the executive director of Discover Prince William & Manassas.

For more information about what’s going on in Prince William and Manassas, visit www.visitpwc.com.

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tambourines and elephants No Bones About It

By DeeDee Corbitt Sauter There has to be a technical or medical term for having no bones. I understand that “tofu” actually derives from the ancient Chinese term for “meat without bones.” If I think about it, that term may very well be more than adequate.

Recently, I went shopping for a five-year-old.

Not only do I hate shopping in general, but I have discovered there are no perfect gifts to bring to a birthday party—ever. So shopping is a waste of time. Now, to be fair, what I’ve just stated is probably unfair. I am sure there are some great gifts; it’s just that they’re not in my price range.

(There is a slight possibility that there may also be a required level of patience, which I just don’t have, associated with spending money. But I digress.)

That day, I stood in the middle of the toy section of a large, loud store, slowly turning in circles only a few feet away from a child who also did not seem like this was on his Top-10 List of things to do; I have determined there are a number of subtle signs that are indicators of such unhappiness.

An increase in the volume of a child’s voice is usually the first sign of his or her unhappiness. If you spot a child but there is little or no sound emanating from that direction, then carry on— nothing to see here. On the other hand, much like the deep rumblings of a volcano’s hungry belly portend devastation, a child’s whine or even a whimper is never, ever good.

The increasing volume of the voices of nearby adults is a secondary indicator of the changes in a child’s mood, and often there is a direct relationship between the child’s state of being and the adult’s need to control it. If the parent sounds at all like a Hollywood demon with an ultra-low gravelly voice, beware; that child is dearly begging to be publicly corrected.

Finally, the sign that indicates that the end of all self-control has been reached is when all of the bones from the child are simultaneously removed by some supernatural force. First, his legs collapse beneath him, as if he has been shot in a lowbudget Western. His drop to the ground is sudden and not without drama. Continued movement does not seem possible, but the subsequent flapping and flailing belies an

amazing nervous system innate to only a much younger generation. Flouncing and bouncing on a germ-laden floor continues through the parents’ attempts to chastise the child without appearing to have lost control of themselves, the child or the situation—which of course they have.

It’s becoming increasingly difficult to publicly correct wayward behavior under the everwatchful eye of those who are quick to jump in and save a poor young child. But which is worse: the glares of people who think you are bring too harsh with verbal reprimands while dragging the flopping child out the door, or the same glares when the parent is not responding quickly or firmly enough? There is no right answer.

A parent often has few options other than shoveling up the boneless beast and disposing it into a car seat. Safety first, after all. Few actually do that. (I did it once, and it was altogether vexing. While buying a birthday gift at a quiet Christian store, my then-18-month-old decided it was the best place to experiment with decibel range and circular breathing. He wanted to play with a bus filled with Veggie Tales characters, although he had no idea who or what they were.

He clearly felt that plastic yellow lorry was far too tempting a prize for which not to fight, but he was mistaken. Quickly, although not quietly, he was picked up much like someone might pick up a football, carried across the goal line—but not spiked, I hasten to add—and unceremoniously brought home where the gift was purchased on Amazon. The experience just reinforced my hatred for shopping.)

cooperate with me in a simple room-cleaning exercise, I started to whine, I stomped my foot, I accused them of being mean and unfair and, forgetting that I have hardwood floors and am significantly taller and slightly heavier than my three-year-old, dramatically fell to the floor and gasped in pain. My arthritic joints laughed at me as I tried to slow my breathing.

“What’s wrong, Mommy?” my youngest asked.

“I think she’s having a fit.” My 11-year-old seemed unconcerned.

Thirty minutes later, after I had crawled to the kitchen, checked myself for broken bones and ingested a massive amount of ibuprofen, I found my boys watching TV in the midst of a toylittered living room.

How do they do that? Regardless of who has the fit, they win. No bones about it.

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

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So the public often watches in awe as the tofu that used to be human squirms and melts and seems to liquefy across the aisle. It’s astounding, albeit scary, to watch. Carnival show contortionists strive for the natural skills of the boneless, angry child.

Why are all children convinced that an increase in volume and a reenactment of a scene from The Exorcist will make their parents succumb to their smallest desires? Perhaps, I thought, if they believe that this will work with us old folks, then surely they find it so powerful that it must work in reverse. I felt so clever.

The next day when my boys decided not to

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