Prince William Living December 2023 by Prince William Living

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DECEMBER ACTIVITIES

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THE CHABAD CENTER

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TONY'S NY PIZZA

prince william living December 2023

The premier lifestyle magazine of Prince William and Greater Manassas

HOLIDAY SHOPPING Connects Customers to Community PAGE 4

Bringing Back Christmas Traditions

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The ARTfactory: The Masterpiece of Manassas PAGE 20

princewilliamliving.com

Optima Health is becoming Sentara Health Plans. New name. Same trusted health plan.

Optima Health is changing our name to Sentara Health Plans to better reflect our enhanced focus on promoting the overall health and well-being of our consumers. You already know Sentara as a trusted provider with more than 300 sites of care in neighborhoods across Virginia and North Carolina.1 We are rooted together in the same mission—to improve health every day. While the health plans have been a part of Sentara for over 35 years, under this new name—Sentara Health Plans— we will be able to further integrate them under a single, unified brand.2 And, by providing healthcare that is simple, personal, and more affordable, we are practicing the future of healthcare today.

To learn more, visit sentarahealthplans.com.

1 2

Sentara Health. About Us. https://www.sentaraproviderresources.com/about-us Sentara Health Plans is a trade name of Sentara Health Plans, Sentara Health Insurance Company, Sentara Health Administration, Inc., and Sentara Behavioral Health Services, Inc. Sentara Health Plans, previously Optima Health Plan, has been issuing HMO plans under that license since 1984. Sentara Health Insurance Company, previously Optima Health Insurance Company, has issued PPO Accident and Sickness plans since 1991.

table of contents December 2023 | Vol. 13 | No. 12

FEATURE STORY Holiday Shopping Connects Customers to Community

DEPARTMENTS

FROM THE PUBLISHER Connected Consumers and Holiday Happenings

DESTINATIONS December Activities In Prince William

GIVING BACK The Chabad Center: Positive Impact in the Community

FAMILY FUN Bringing Back Christmas Traditions

LOCAL FLAVOR A Slice of Heaven: Tony’s NY Pizza Serves PWC for Three Decades

ON A HIGH NOTE The ARTfactory: The Masterpiece of Manassas

CALENDAR

COLUMNS YOUR FINANCES

HEALTH & WELLNESS HOME & HEARTH

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prince william living December 2023 | 1

prince william living Rebecca Barnes

PRINCE WILLIAM LIVING PUBLISHER rbarnes@princewilliamliving.com ADMIN ASSISTANT David Lezcano, admin@princewilliamliving.com ONLINE EDITOR Carole Keily, news@princewilliamliving.com

Erin Pittman EDITOR IN CHIEF epittman@princewilliamliving.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jennifer Halter, Carole Keily, Paul Keily, Dawn Klavon, Wendy Migdal, Bennett Whitlock

GIVE BACK PRINCE WILLIAM INITIATIVE Johnnie Barnes, johnnie@givebackpw.org CLIENT CARE SPECIALIST Diane Puigdomenech, dpuigdomenech@princewilliamliving.com VISIBILITY PACKAGES sales@princewilliamliving.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS Mark Gilvey, Rob Jinks SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Katherine Gotthardt GRAPHIC DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Alison Dixon/ImagePrep Studio

SUBSCRIPTIONS info@princewilliamliving.com

Prince William Living, the premier lifestyle magazine of Prince William and Greater Manassas, is published monthly by Prince William Living, Inc. The opinions expressed in the magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Prince William Living. © Copyright 2023 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 9994 Sowder Village Square #816 Manassas, Va 20109 Phone: (703) 232-1758

Editorial Have a story you’d like our staff to cover? Contact Prince William Living editorial staff at (703) 232-1758, ext. 2, or at editor@princewilliamliving.com.

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2 | December 2023 prince william living

from the Publisher Connected Consumers and Holiday Happenings

he magic of the winter holidays are upon us, and that means so is the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping! Whether you find it to be a chore or you cherish it, we’ve got you covered with the perfect spots for shopping locally to find tailored gifts for all your favorite people. And while you’re soaking in the best Prince William shops, read up on some terrific happenings to bring joy to your season. From Santa stops to artisan markets and light displays to holiday theater, there’s plenty of fun to add to your holiday calendar in our Destinations section. Nothing seems to go faster than a December calendar filling up. Before each slot is taken, pencil in some time for holiday traditions with your loved ones. Our Family Fun section offers ideas to get you started making treasured memories together. You can start by decorating together! Pick your style and begin your home’s transformation. Are you more whimsical, natural or traditional? Check out Home and Hearth for the hottest trends in holiday decorating styles.

When you’re ready to kick back by the fire and relax, we’ve got inspiring reads from around the county. Find out what’s happening at the ARTFactory. This center of creative innovation in Manassas offers classes in theater and visual arts, dance and more. Read about this welcoming community of creatives in On a High Note. You’ll also find inspiration in our Giving Back section with the story of The Chabad Center for Jewish Life of Greater Gainesville and Manassas. This center was created as a resource for learning and connecting to Judaism and to be a welcoming community that gives back. Local Flavor brings you the tasty story of Tony’s NY Pizza and the family behind the delicious, authentic recipes. Health and Wellness will help you understand how to handle grief during the holidays and how to be supportive to someone else experiencing grief. And Your Finances offers tips for handling the inheritance of a home. Wishing you a bright and beautiful holiday season. Thank you for spending 2023 with us. We’ll see you in the new year.

Rebecca Barnes Publisher

B R I D E S & W E D D I N G S O F N O R T H E R N V I R G I N I A V O L U M E 2 0, N O. 1

bridesandweddings.com

prince william living December 2023 | 3

Holiday Shopping

Connects Customers to Community By Wendy Migdal

oliday shopping, or any shopping really, reminds one of the line from the song that goes “You say tomayto, I say tomahto.” Some people think of shopping as a chore, while others view it as therapy. Regardless of where you stand on this issue, it’s likely that you’ll need to participate in the activity at some point this season. Why not take advantage of the abundance of small shops in the Prince William area to complete your gift checklist? You won’t just be supporting a local business and finding that perfect gift, though those are great reasons to shop small. You’ll also be making those age-old human connections that come with buying and selling in the live marketplace.

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Manassas Train Station

Historic Occoquan

The Human Connection

pizzazz, then shopping small and local is your answer. Candy Murphy of Details in Haymarket agrees. When asked if she would consider her aesthetic to be trendy, classic or off-beat, she says, “Yes,” and laughs. “We really have something for everyone — clothing, jewelry, things for the home, hostess gifts. And there’s a little bit of everything style-wise.” Details has been in business for over 20 years and started out as a home décor store. The inventory expanded over the years. Since Candy Murphy bought it two years ago, she’s also broadened the clothing line.

Some of their most popular items are from the 80s and include Generation One Transformers, My Little Pony, and individual Pokemon cards. Patricia says, “Parents come in and show their children, ‘This is what I used to play with.’ And some kids will get into what their parents played with. It’s also a great place for kids to shop. We have some items for 50 cents and parents can give their children a budget to find a gift for their sibling, and they can have fun doing that.”

Puzzle Palooza in Occoquan is another example of the one-ofa-kind store that you won’t find in a mall. Their 3,500 products range from a two-piece puzzle for very young children to a 42,000 piece puzzle for adults. “It is not uncommon for us to hear new customers exclaim, ‘Oh my gosh this place is amazing,’ when they walk in the door for the first time,” says owner Donna Sherman. “Customers comment on the wide variety of items that we have. We love talking to our customers about their favorite puzzles and games, as well as answering their questions.” And the sharing of information is a two-way street. “Conversations with our customers are a great way for us to learn about different games and brands that we may not have heard of,” she adds. Many customers also come for the games, crystal art, Ty Beanies and other items, and appreciate the punch card program that earns them discounts on future purchases.

Patricia Kouttab, co-owner of Kerbobble Toys in Old Town Manassas, sees this connection on many levels. “Our store is very unique and feels like a home because it has rooms. People often come here to relax and chat. It’s their happy place,” she says of her business, which sells new, classic, and vintage toys and games. Kouttab’s husband Nadim and her daughter are often there as well. Theirs is a success story one doesn’t hear every day — the Kouttabs started their business in December 2019 and it is doing well today.

For those of us who share those memories of being taught as children how to give, it’s the kind of experience that cannot be replaced by internet shopping. Pam Konwin, owner of Elements in Occoquan, thinks that the proliferation of the internet and the effects of the COVID years have had an impact on those wanting to go into small business. “A lot of young people don’t want to have a brick-and-mortar store anymore. They want to do everything online,” she says. Yet she believes most customers actually want to see and feel what they’re buying before they buy it. “Sometimes people come in and they don’t even know what they’re looking for, until they see it,” she says. Speaking of her store, she adds, “It’s a great place to get girlfriend gifts. People say I have the best scarf collection around. We have a lot of funky items. You’ll find something you wouldn’t find at a department store, that’s for sure.”

One-of-a-Kind Gifts

If you have someone who’s hard to buy for, or if you’re the one who has a hard time being satisfied giving a present without

Echoes, the Manassas Museum’s store, is yet another great place to find one-of-a-kind items. There are items for the history lover, such as books, salt and pepper shakers shaped like railroad lanterns, and toys for the history-loving child. Echoes specializes in Manassas-centric items, such as prints, maps, mugs, T-shirts, a Cat’s Meow of the train station, and much more. The store also carries items made by local artisans, including jewelry and honey.

Handmade Items

Another important connection is that between the maker and the user. In a time when so many of the products we use in daily (continues on page 6) prince william living December 2023 | 5

(continued from page 5)

Good to Know

Shining Sol Candle Company in Historic Downtown Manassas

The Town of Occoquan offers the Occoquan Business Partners Gift Certificate for $25 each. Currently, 27 merchants and restaurants participate. It can be purchased online and shipped to your address or picked up at Hitchcock Paper Co.

life are made in factories halfway around the world, people in the Prince William area are lucky to have so many small businesses to patronize in which goods are made locally. Jane McCollum, co-owner of Manassas Clay, says, “We have 40 local potters who sell their work in our store. Customers can find anything from functional stoneware to handmade ornaments, which are very popular at the holidays. They can find inexpensive spoon rests and larger, more expensive bowls and vases.” Only a few steps down the street are the hand-poured candles at Shining Sol Candle Company (where you can even pour your own candle). Many art galleries carry not only fine art, but other gifts made by local artisans. Or your gift to someone could be the opportunity to make something themselves, such as a gift card to Paint Your Heart Out in Occoquan. And let’s not forget food. Homemade sweets go over well with almost any recipient, picky or not. Both Occoquan and Manassas have several stores that sell tasty treats, such as chocolate candy or the gourmet popcorn of the Popcorn Monkey. Pick up a bottle of locally made wine while you’re in town at Aroma in Manassas or Aroma II in Haymarket, the tasting rooms of Morais Vineyards. The Bee Store in Tackett’s Mill carries all-natural, locally produced honey and skin care products. And for the foodie in your life, how about some olive oil or vinegar from Manassas Olive Oil Company or So Olive in Occoquan? For those seeking even more handmade goods, the Occoquan Holiday Artisan Market takes place on Dec. 2 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Dec. 3 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in River Mill Park. About a hundred artisans will be selling their wares, including jewelry, bath and body, food, fine art, and more. It’s also the last weekend for the Shop, Dine, and Win promotion in which shoppers who spend $10 or more at six different participating businesses will be entered into a drawing for a gift card to local businesses.

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If you’re short on time but still want to support local businesses, both the Town of Occoquan and City of Manassas have gift card options. Manassas offers the Heart Beat card (short for the slogan, “Historic Heart, Modern Beat”), an e-card that can be purchased online at choosemanassas. org. Currently, 30 merchants and restaurants participate, and the same card can be redeemed at multiple stores.

Finally, a little help with traffic. In Occoquan, you can catch the free shuttle from VDOT Christmas tree at the Manassas Commuter Lot at the corner of Rt. 123 and Old Museum Bridge Road, which will take you to the shops. Remaining dates this season include Dec. 2, 3, 9, and 16, and the shuttle runs about every 20 minutes until 8 p.m., since many stores are open late. And if you happen to live in the Manassas Park area, now might be a good time to try out OmniRide’s new microtransit service, which works a lot like Uber and Lyft (but is free). Since humans first figured out how to specialize in making a product, humans have gathered in public marketplaces to trade. Where once it seems that the big box stores were taking away from the mom-and-pop stores, it now seems as though the internet may be having a bigger impact. And even though the internet makes it possible for individual craftspeople to sell goods online, there’s no substitute for face-to-face interaction. This season, take advantage of the wealth of small shops in our area, and shop small. Wendy Migdal is a freelance writer who has lived in the Central Virginia area since 2000.

Discover

Holiday Magic There’s Something for Everyone

stonebridgeptc.com

FREE Event! For detailed information please visit our website: pwcparks.info/holidaywalkoflights prince william living December 2023 | 7

destinations

December Activities

in Prince William By Carole Keily

rince William is never without things to do, but it’s extra lively this time of year with a number of December traditions such as Santa arriving on the train in Historic Downtown Manassas on First Friday to light the Christmas tree, and the Occoquan HolidayFest (most of which took place in November this year).

This year, why not check out some of these newer or reimagined December events? And, for up-to-date information, look for the weekly column “Don’t Miss Out,” which comes out every Wednesday morning on Prince William Living’s website (princewilliamliving.com).

Holiday Artisan Market Saturday, Dec. 2, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. River Mill Park, 458 Mill Street, Occoquan Santa arrives by boat at the town dock at 10:30 a.m., and kids of all ages will escort him to River Mill Park. There will be a gingerbread contest and concerts both days.

Winter Lights Extravaganza Contest Registration through Dec. 13; Judging Dec. 14 to 17 Monday, Dec. 18; continues through Saturday, Jan. 6, 2024 Manassas Park Residents and businesses in Manassas Park can register to participate in this contest at form.jotform. com/232395611254050. Registration ends on Dec. 13, and judges will pick the winners in Best Yard, Best Windows, and Best Overall categories. Winning homes will be announced on Dec. 18, and a map will be available online for people to use in touring the lights from Dec. 18 through Jan. 6.

Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley Friday, Dec. 8 & 15, 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9 & 16, 2 and 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10 & 17, 2 p.m. Hylton Performing Arts Center, 10960 Mason Circle, Manassas Prince William Little Theatre presents this sequel to Jane

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Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. An unexpected guest brings hope to the heroine for independence, an intellectual match, and love. Tickets: hyltoncenter.org.

Family Day: Visit with Santa Saturday, Dec. 9 National Museum of the Marine Corps, 1775 Semper Fidelis Way, Triangle Come see Santa while he visits the National Museum of the Marine Corps! Holiday activities and crafts will be available. Bring your camera to get photos of your children with Santa.

Dickens Holiday Festival Saturday, Dec. 9 | 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 100 Park Central Plaza, Manassas Park This event promises to be a “grand holiday celebration” where

Christmas Celebration and Craft Bazaar Saturday, Dec. 9, 2 to 6 p.m. Haymarket Town Hall, 15000 Washington Street, Haymarket Shop local at the craft bazaar, listen to holiday music performances, enjoy make-and-take crafts for the children, and visit Santa’s workshop.

5K Family Reindeer Romp Saturday, Dec. 16, 10 a.m. PWC Stadium Complex, 7 County Complex Court, Woodbridge This 5K run/walk follows mixed terrain and is stroller friendly. Participants receive a finisher’s medal and a long-sleeved t-shirt. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Woodbridge organization For the Love of Others. Register here: runsignup. com/Race/Events/VA/Woodbridge/ReindeerRunandRomp.

Woodbridge Community Choir Christmas Concert you’ll “have a Dickens of a time.” Enjoy a Victorian tea party, Ollie’s Alley (children’s activities), Pickwick’s Pub (with hottie toddies and mulled wine), Santa, artisan and food vendors, performances, and a kids’ Christmas movie in the library. Come for Dickens and stay for Chocolatada, a Latin tradition of hot chocolate and sweet bread.

Sunday, Dec. 17, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. National Museum of the Marine Corps, 1775 Semper Fidelis Way, Triangle This community choir has been around since 1966 and is excited to share their holiday music selection with you! Carole Keily is Prince William Living's Online Editor. prince william living December 2023 | 9

your finances Financial Guide to Inheriting a Home Due to a Death in the Family By Bennett C. Whitlock III Private Wealth Advisor

f you stand to inherit a property, such as a family home or vacation condo, the gift presents a critical financial decision: whether to sell, rent, or keep it. While the inheritance itself may be a blessing, often it’s the result of losing a loved one who’s passed away, which could complicate matters from an emotional and practical standpoint. Do you wish to hold on to to the property for sentimental reasons? Is it financially possible to maintain it if you already own or rent a residence? Do you own it outright, or is it a split inheritance with other beneficiaries (e.g., siblings) whose own financial situations and priorities will need to be taken into account? Sorting through these and other questions can feel overwhelming, but don’t let that stop you. As with most major decisions, it helps to start with the facts. Here are some steps to consider: 1. Set up an appraisal to learn the property’s value. Hire a professional appraiser who can determine the fair market value of the property on the date you assumed ownership. Having a solid idea of the value can not only help you decide whether to sell or keep the home today, but it can establish a cost basis should you decide to sell it in the future. 2. Calculate the cost to maintain the property. If you decide to keep it, the property’s mortgage payments, annual property taxes and utility bills will be your responsibility but it doesn’t stop there. Make sure to factor in other regular expenses, such as yard maintenance, snow removal, and housekeeping to get a realistic picture of what it will take financially to keep the home. 3. Determine your ability and desire to maintain the home. Do you have the time to handle the upkeep? Additionally, think about how you’ll manage the property in retirement if you’re unable to perform maintenance tasks yourself. As you work through these actions, here are some additional considerations that come with the decision to sell, rent or keep the home:

Sell

Parting ways with a family home can be emotional — even when you know doing so is the right decision. Give yourself time to prepare the home for sale. This way you can sort through your loved one’s belongings and find closure at your own pace. If you make a profit on the sale, apply the money toward your financial goals. The extra sum can help make your goals of retirement, college tuition for grandkids, or estate plans a reality. Selling the home has tax implications that vary by state, so talk to a tax professional for guidance.

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Rent

If renting the home is appealing to you, research what the rental market is like in your area. Determine if a reasonable monthly rental price provides enough cash flow to cover upkeep costs. Hiring a management company to clean, make minor home repairs, or manage the rental process may be attractive, particularly if the property is miles away from your primary residence. Additional tax considerations may apply depending on the number of days you use the home versus rent the space to others. You should also determine whether the property is subject to rental restrictions related to local ordinances and home owners associations.

Keep

The ability to continue family traditions, have a future retirement space or a vacation getaway may make keeping the home the right decision for you. If you're sharing ownership with a sibling or another family member, it’s critical to clearly communicate (ideally in writing) how you will split the financial and maintenance responsibilities. Consider the following financial steps as well: n Purchase home insurance. If the property has a pool, trampoline, boat, or other recreational items, you may need additional coverage. n Save strategically for a remodel or upgrades if you want to adapt the home to suit your family’s lifestyle. n Update your estate plan. If you intend to keep the home in your family for another generation or two, don’t wait to prepare your legal documents. Advance planning can help pass the property smoothly to your inheritors. Have a conversation with your beneficiaries so they know what to expect. Making decisions after the loss of a loved one can feel overwhelming. It’s okay to take your time and ask for help with choices along the way. Guidance from a realtor, attorney, and financial advisor may help you be thoughtful about how the inherited home fits into your lifestyle and financial plan. Bennett C. Whitlock III, CRPC®, is a Private Wealth Advisor and CEO with Whitlock Wealth Management, a private wealth advisory practice with Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. He specializes in fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 28 years. To contact him visit whitlockwealth.com, call 877-WHITLOCK or email whitlockwealthmanagement@ampf.com. Offices are located at 12848 Harbor Dr, Ste 101, Lake Ridge, VA 22192 and in Downtown Historic Manassas at 9073 Center Street, Manassas VA 20110. © 2023 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

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prince william living December 2023 | 11

giving back THE CHABAD CENTER

Positive Impact in the Community By Paul Keily

he Chabad Center for Jewish Life of Greater Gainesville and Manassas was established as a nonprofit organization by Rabbi Shmuly Perlstein and his wife, Goldie Perlstein, in May 2017. Rabbi Perlstein said the Center focuses on being “a resource for anyone looking to connect or learn about Judaism, and foster a welcoming and non-judgmental community that helps bring our community forward.”

Chabad-Lubavitch

The Chabad Center in Gainesville is part of a larger organization, movement, and philosophy called ChabadLubavitch, a branch of Hasidic Judaism. The name “Chabad” is an acronym derived from the Hebrew words for wisdom, comprehension, and knowledge. “Lubavitch” means “the city of brotherly love” and comes from the name of a city in eastern Russia where the movement has roots. The modern Chabad-Lubavitch organization dates to the 1940s when Rabbi Menachem Mendel began to found numerous Chabad centers around the world. The global network of Chabad Centers currently has more than 3,500 institutions committed to serving Jewish communities.

A menorah near the Virginia LOVE sign.

Faith-Informed

Impact on the Jewish Community

The values of Chabad-Lubavitch guide Rabbi Perlstein’s work within the community. He said, “As a religious organization, faith is at the center of all that we do, our belief in the inherent Godly value in each individual, inspires us to do our best to serve and be there for everyone regardless of affiliation or past, and treat everyone with dignity.” Perlstein and the Chabad Center strive to make their services accessible to any who are interested. He said, “We strongly believe that religious and educational experience should be

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available to all, so at Chabad we do not require membership for participation in our services. We will also never turn someone away due to lack of funds. [During] the High Holidays, we offer free seats so that all are welcome and included in our services.”

The Chabad Center has made a positive impact on the Jewish community in Prince William in many ways. Rabbi Perlstein said, “Since we have started, we have found the Jewish Community to have a voice and home in Western PWC. Whether it's the child in Hebrew School who for the first time has an opportunity to connect to their heritage, or the elderly in senior homes that are no longer alone, or the woman who is too ill to leave home for services that receives holiday bags to bring her joy. We have been blessed to see a community of loving and caring individuals coming together.”

Photo courtesy of Eric Teitelman Photography

Photo courtesy of Mike Salomon Photography

Rabbi Shmuly Perlstein

People of all ages are involved in the center’s community work. Rabbi Perlstein said, “At our teen programming, we encourage our teens to give back by making meals for local shelters, packing gifts for kids in hospitals and other community service events.” The teenage group started to work with the SERVE shelter in Manassas. In the High Lifeline program, teens make care packages for children with terminal illnesses. Perlstein said that his community is looking to partner up with senior homes to more consistently pair up with residents and hopes to have the program more established by early 2024. Ellen Malka, a retired teacher, is one member of the Gainesville Chabad community who exemplifies the spirit of contributing to the local community. Ellen started working with “senior buddies” at local retirement homes when she retired four years ago. She visits seniors both in homes and those who live in local elder care facilities. Malka said, “Our main goal is to help combat social isolation among the elderly, which is a huge problem. We also give respite to caregivers.” Malka’s work with seniors has snowballed into other community connections as well. She has helped to connect seniors with local Head Start programs. Malka said, “The seniors started making picture books and terrariums for the kids. The kids loved these gifts and the older folks felt like they were needed and doing something significant for the younger generation.” Malka said, “We’re always looking for new members of the community to help out with different programs. I started working with the Warrior Retreat for veterans in Haymarket and am involving other members of our congregation.” Malka also works with local SPCA chapters to place adoption posters for animals in local businesses.

Local teens volunteer at the center by making meals for local shelters.

Additionally, the center offers weekly and seasonal educational classes for the community. Rabbi Perlstein said the classes “offer a deeper understanding of Jewish values and tools for personal growth.” Many of the weekly classes focus on important Chabad-Lubavitch texts, such as the Tanya written by the founder of Chabad Hasidism.

Holidays

Chanukah Menorah Lightings will occur from Dec. 7 to 14 this year. Rabbi Perlstein said, “We offer public Menorah lightings and experiences open to share the message of religious freedom and liberty.” There will be three menorah lighting events this year, including one at the Virginia Gateway in Gainesville. Perlstein had his first menorah lighting in the Town of Occoquan last year and plans to continue this year. At the Harris Pavilion in Old Town Manassas, the Chabad Center holds the “Menorah on Ice” lighting. To learn more, connect, or support, you can reach out to 571445-0342 or visit ChabadGainesville.com Paul Keily is a local writer, educator, and artist. He has lived in Prince William for the majority of his life. He is an active participant in and organizer of DIY events at Clearbrook Center of the Arts.

prince william living December 2023 | 13

health & wellness Feelings of Grief May be Magnified During the Holidays Sponsored by Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center

he holidays are often thought of as a joyful time of the year, filled with the sights, sounds, and flavors of the season. Yet for people struggling with the death of a family member or other loved one, the holidays can be a difficult time. Messages that ring out tidings of comfort and joy do anything but when a person is struggling with loss. Whether it is Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, or another special time of observance, the season may bring many reminders of the loss in your life. And it may not just be recent losses. During the holidays, feelings of grief can seem fresh, even if a loved one died years ago. At a time of year when many people feel compelled to follow holiday traditions, letting yourself do something different can be helpful. Some people find it comforting to be with family and friends, emphasizing the familiar. Others may wish to avoid old traditions and try something new. Sentara Health offers suggestions for coping with grief during the holidays: n Plan for the approaching holidays. Recognize that the holidays might be a difficult time for you. The stress of the season may affect you emotionally, mentally, and physically. This is a normal reaction. Be prepared and gentle with yourself. n Recognize that the holidays will not be the same. Expecting everything to seem the same might lead to disappointment. Doing things differently acknowledges the change in your life but still offers continuity with the past. n Be careful not to isolate yourself. It is important to take quiet, reflective time for yourself but also allow yourself the support offered by friends and family. If you cannot be together in person, telephone calls, Zoom, FaceTime, or Skype calls can be a way to stay in touch. n The holidays may affect other family members. Talk over your plans and share your feelings. Respect other’s choices and needs. n Avoid additional stress. Decide what you really want to do during the holiday season and give yourself permission to avoid things you don’t want to do. n Be willing to listen to a friend who is grieving. Active listening from friends and family is an important step to helping some cope with grief and heal. And never tell someone that he or she should get “over it;” instead, give the person hope that, eventually, he or she will enjoy the holidays again.

14 | December 2023 prince william living

n Follow up after the holidays to check in. Given the activity of the season, some people may make it through the holidays without any concerns, but they might find the post-holiday period to be more difficult. Checking in with some who is grieving after the holidays to see how he or she may be doing is helpful. The holidays are also difficult for people coping with serious illness. Some of the advice Sentara offers to those grieving is applicable to those facing challenging medical situations. Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center’s Cancer Support Network is offering a Facebook Live chat, “Coping with Loss & Change During the Holidays,” on Wednesday, Dec. 20 at 12 p.m. ET. Visit the SNVMC Facebook page at Facebook.com/ SentaraNorthernVirginia and find information on this live chat under the Events tab.

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prince william living December 2023 | 15

family fun

Bringing Back Christmas Traditions By Jennifer Halter

s we head into December, it’s easy to say that we’re kicking off one of the busiest months of the year — holiday parties, school concerts, gift exchanges, travel. As much as we want to feel nothing but joy during this time, the busyness can feel overwhelming. Some may even crave more simplicity and are ready to ditch all the bells and whistles of the modern-day holiday season. But, how? Think back to your own childhood and all the things you were most excited about. What you would like to incorporate into your current holiday bucket list? Here are some ideas to help you create your list of family Christmas traditions.

Go Caroling

Gather your family and friends and plan a night to go Christmas caroling. It doesn’t have to be a fancy or formal event. You don’t even have to sing well! Bundle up and head out into your neighborhood and sing your favorite holiday tunes. If you don’t feel comfortable knocking on neighbors’ doors, you can keep it simple and just walk and sing. You’re likely to grab some attention, but most importantly, you’ll be having fun with your group. Another option for this, which would keep you warm and indoors, would be to visit a local nursing home or hospital and go caroling for the residents/patients. Be sure to get permission to do this prior to heading out.

16 | December 2023 prince william living

Build a Gingerbread House

Gingerbread house kits have evolved over time to include novelty flavors and popular characters. This year, choose a classic design and decorate using items you used during your childhood, such as simple icing and old-fashioned hard candies. Gather the family and get creative with the basics.

Make Homemade Cards

Make your seasonal greetings stand out with a handmade creation. Creating your own cards can be the perfect gift for a special loved one. Use cardstock or even heavy construction paper for the card and decorate with materials, such as ribbon or buttons. You can even add your child’s most recent school photo. Include a personal note for the recipient, preferably handwritten.

Drive Around to See Christmas Lights

Grab some hot cocoa and load the family into the car for a nighttime drive to see Christmas lights. Play your favorite holiday songs (and even have your own singalong!) while you explore your neighborhood and check out the decorative displays. Have each family member choose their favorite display of the night.

Bake Christmas Cookies

Store bought cookies are good, but nothing compares to baking your own treats to enjoy at home or to give as gifts. Ask relatives and friends to share their favorite cookie recipes for you to try, and block out some time to bake as a family. Play Christmas music in the background or tell stories about your favorite holiday things while you wait for your creations to come out of the oven.

Find and Cut a Real Christmas Tree

It may be a lot of work, but opting for a real Christmas tree can bring back feelings of nostalgia unlike any others. Head to a tree farm and spend time as a family finding your perfect (or, perfectly imperfect) tree. Once home, you’ll not only be able to enjoy the process of decorating it, but you’ll be able to enjoy the wonderful scent it provides throughout the season.

Make Homemade Ornaments

You can make your own ornaments out of a variety of materials. For younger children, stringing beads onto pipe cleaners or yarn can be simple and fun for them to do. Another idea is to create cinnamon ornaments. Not only are they cute, but they smell amazing! A favorite recipe for this is as follows:

1 tbsp of ground nutmeg 1 ½ cups of white, allpurpose glue Combine the dry ingredients (cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg) in a bowl. Once mixed well, add in the applesauce and glue. Mix by hand to form a clay-like dough. Roll out the dough onto wax or parchment paper to approximately ¼ of an inch in thickness. Once rolled out, you can use holiday cookie cutters to cut into ornaments. Once cut, use a toothpick or straw to make a hole at the top of each ornament (this is where you will put yarn or ribbon for hanging). Using a spatula, carefully place the ornaments onto a parchment paper lined cookie sheet. Bake at 200 degrees for two to three hours or until the ornaments are dry and hard. Thread yarn or ribbon through the hole in the ornament. You can also add your own embellishments, such as glitter or paint, to your ornament. Please make sure to remind your children that these ornaments are not edible, even if they smell like they could be!

Cinnamon Ornaments Ingredients:

No matter how you choose to celebrate this holiday season, focus on finding joy and making memories that will last a lifetime.

1 cup of ground cinnamon ¾ cup of applesauce 1 tbsp of ground cloves

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

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local flavor

A Slice of Heaven By Dawn Klavon

Tony’s NY Pizza Serves PWC for Three Decades

Photos courtesy of Joe D'Agostino

estled in Manassas, Bristow, and Haymarket are culinary gems that bring a slice of New York City to Northern Virginia. Tony's NY Pizza has been serving authentic, mouthwatering New York-style pizza since 1989, creating a loyal following among both locals and pizza aficionados. Founded by the D’Agostino family, the original Manassas store has multiplied to now have three bustling Prince William shops.

A Slice of History

“They came over from Naples, Italy in ‘74,” says owner Giuseppe “Joe” D’Agostino about his father Antonio “Tony” D’Agostino, 73, and his uncles. “I grew up in the business, went to college and as soon as I came out of college, I went to work for Dad full-time.” D’Agostino says his father and uncles learned the New York pizza trade in Brooklyn, then branched out, first opening a shop in West Virginia. In 1989, his father opened Tony’s NY Pizza, first located on Mathis Avenue in Manassas. The family patriarch loved pizza and was passionate about creating extraordinary, authentic Italian food. The Manassas restaurant soon became a hit and business grew. Today, many members of D’Agostino’s family, including Tony, are involved in the business. “It is family run from top to bottom, for all the stores,” D’Agostino says. To meet the public demand for the popular pies and Italian cuisine, they opened several additional locations and moved the original location to 8891 Centreville Road at the Manassas Junction Shopping Center. It’s a local institution now, drawing loyal crowds who value tradition and quality.

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Restauranteurs Tony (left) and Joe (right) D'Agostino have worked together at Tony's NY Pizza in Manassas for decades.

Outstanding Cuisine

The menu at Tony's NY Pizza is a tribute to Italy’s diverse culinary heritage. Pizza can be ordered by the slice, and the prices can’t be beaten. Diners will also discover a variety of pies to satisfy every palate — NY style, focaccia style, gluten-free, or Sicilian style. Tony’s offers an array of mouthwatering menu options, from calzones to subs to seafood dinners to chicken to classic pastas. Outstanding soup, veal, salad choices, and desserts round out the extensive menu. “We basically concentrate on Neapolitan cooking — all the traditional recipes are Neapolitan recipes, made from scratch at every store — no gimmicks,” says D’Agostino. “The pizza is

Three generations of the D'Agostino family have been working at Tony's NY Pizza restaurants since their start in 1989.

still a traditional New York pizza. We source the best quality ingredients and that really is what puts us apart. We try to import our own tomatoes from Italy, the best olive oils. The prime material is the best we can get and that’s part of the secret to why our stuff is so good.”

It’s All About Community

Tony's NY Pizza isn't just a place to grab a quick meal; it's a hub for the local community. D’Agostino says the clientele has grown over the past three decades, and now profound relationships exist between customers and staff. “We have customers now that we’ve seen grow up and they’re bringing their kids in now,” he says. “It’s a great experience and a great feeling seeing them over and over again. It’s good food — homemade food — and there’s also that environment; it’s almost like ‘Cheers,’ you know, the bar where everyone knows your name!” D’Agostino has lived within Prince William for over three decades and is raising his own family here as well. He and his family members strive to create consistency among the three locations for the restaurants. “Obviously everyone will have their favorites, you can never have them exactly the same,” D’Agostino says. “The recipes are all the same, and I pop in and out of all three, making sure that things are done correctly and the recipes are being followed from the original recipes we have had the past 30 years.”

A Slice of Heaven To Go

In addition to their welcoming dine-in experience, Tony's NY Pizza offers speedy takeout service, making it a go-to spot for busy families and pizza lovers on the move. Looking toward the future, D’Agostino says his children are grown and coming into the business, just as he did years ago. Together with cousins and extended family, they plan to continue serving Prince William with excellent cuisine and unparalleled service. “We’re looking to maintain the consistency and the business at the stores that we do have,” D’Agostino says, “with the potential of opening up new stores in the future, once this next generation is up and ready to go to handle stores of their own.” The D’Agostino family’s passion, commitment to quality, and warm hospitality have made these pizzerias landmarks in their respective communities. “We’re foodies; we live at our stores,” D’Agostino says. “It’s not just a 9 to 5 job for us; it’s a lifestyle.” n Tony’s NY Pizza is located at 8801 Centreville Road, Manassas, 703-330-8909 n Dominion Valley Market Square, 5361 Merchants View Square, Haymarket, 571-248-6290 n Bristow Center, 10314 Bristow Center Drive, Bristow, 703-367-0022 Dawn Klavon is a regular contributing writer for Prince William Living. prince william living December 2023 | 19

on a high note

The ARTfactory

The Masterpiece of Manassas Manassas nonprofit reaches the masses with creative innovation By Dawn Klavon

n artistic renaissance is in full bloom in Manassas at the ARTfactory. This unassuming haven for artists of all backgrounds and disciplines has evolved to become a cherished gem, fostering a diverse community of creators, bringing forth an explosion of artistic innovation, and inspiring a community to embrace the arts. “I believe art is not a luxury, it’s a necessity,” says ARTfactory Executive Director Tanya Conroy.

A Cornerstone for Creativity

Manassas has long been known for its rich history and community spirit, but it's the ARTfactory — over the past four decades — that has made waves for its contemporary contribution to the city's cultural tapestry. Located in the Hopkins Candy Factory building — a converted industrial building — the ARTfactory is more than just a space; it's a haven for creativity and a sanctuary for artists to explore, experiment, and collaborate. “It’s really important that everyone feels like they have a voice here at the Art Factory,” Conroy says. “We try to come up with different classes that cater to all generations. We try to touch everybody somehow, whatever age you are, whatever walk of life you have to feel comfortable.” Locals regard the ARTfactory as the cornerstone of the downtown Manassas arts community. Currently, it offers an entrance to its Caton Merchant Family Gallery free of charge. The gallery shows local and regional artists, photography, and instructors’ exhibits, all of which will include an artist reception to help connect the community to the artists. In addition, the gallery hosts an adjudicated high school student art competition annually that includes poetry and wearable art.

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Pied Piper Theatre’s School of Rock

“Our gallery is free; there’s no entry fee to come in,” Conroy says. “You’ll be exposed to not only incredible local talent but sometimes nationally renowned talent right in our beautiful little city.”

Inside the ARTfactory

“The ARTFactory really focuses on community outreach, to ensure that everybody in our community feels that they are a part,” says Conroy. “We are going into our 40th anniversary — I think that speaks volumes that a nonprofit has stood the test through some incredibly difficult times.”

Photos courtesy of ARTfactory

In addition to the free gallery, ARTfactory offers programs in theatre arts, visual arts education, dance classes, Arts on the Go™, summer camps, and SummerSounds Concert Series. For those interested in theater arts, informative classes are held offering topics like Basic Stage Lighting and Sound Design, Broadway Dance, Voice, and How to Audition. Visual art students may register for classes in pastels, oils, drawing, cartooning, watercolor, acrylics, photography, and sculpture. These spaces not only serve as venues for entertainment but also as platforms for community engagement and education. “There are artists talks and artists’ seminars where you can sit with those artists for free,” Conroy says. “Sometimes you’re able to take classes with those artists, and I think that is something that sets us above the rest.”

Community and Collaboration

The heart of the Art Factory lies in its commitment to fostering a sense of community among artists. The collaborative spirit here is palpable, as creators from different backgrounds come together to share ideas, techniques, and inspiration. The result is a dynamic and inclusive environment that encourages growth and experimentation. In order for this collaboration to happen though, community support and donations are necessary. “For our funding as a nonprofit, we rely on donations and sponsorships and community support,” Conroy says. “As a nonprofit, we rely on philanthropy.” The ARTfactory also relies on numerous volunteers for its programs. Anyone interested in volunteering with the organization can find out more about how on their website, virginiaartfactory.org.

Instructor and artist, Heather Rankin, teaching during summer camp.

Local Impact

The impact of the ARTfactory is immeasurable. Beyond the cultural enrichment it brings to the community, it also contributes to the local economy and revitalization efforts. Its presence has helped transform this former factory into a vibrant arts district, attracting visitors and new businesses to the region. It’s no small task, Conroy says. “There’s only six of us,” she says in regard to the number of fulltime and part-time employees. “We are a mighty team. We’re very blessed to have incredible educators and instructors around us to come and teach classes. It’s such a beautiful place to be — we want everyone to feel like they can find something here.” For more information about tickets, classes, a program schedule, camp, the gallery, and how to donate to the ARTfactory, visit them at 9419 Battle Street in Manassas, call at 703-330-2787, or visit their website at virginiaartfactory.org. Dawn Klavon is a regular contributing writer for Prince William Living.

Leroy and Vera: Rooftop Production’s By the Way Meet Vera Stark

Artist, David Amoroso teaching to a visiting school prince william living December 2023 | 21

Gingerbread House Decorating

(Ages 3-12) You’re invited to join us for our annual Gingerbread House Decorating Party! We will have fun building with lots of sweet treats. $7 Per house kit. Pre-registration required.

Thursday, December 7th | 7:00pm-8:00pm

Breakfast with Santa

Join Santa for pancakes, photos, and fun! Children of all ages are welcome to come have breakfast with Santa, play games, crafts, and more. $7 Per person - Children under the age of 2 are included in parent’s registration.

Saturday, December 16th | 9:00am-11:00am Manassas Park Community Center 99 Adams Street Manassas Park, VA 20111 (703) 335-8872 ManassasParkCommunityCenter.com

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home & hearth Deck the Halls with Joy: Top Holiday Decor Trends for 2023 By Rebecca Barnes, Publisher, Prince William Living

he holidays are a time to gather with loved ones, cherish old traditions, and create new memories. Among these cherished traditions, decorating your home for Christmas is an absolute delight. It's a time when creativity knows no bounds, and transforming your abode into a winter wonderland is a joyful endeavor. If you're seeking inspiration to elevate your holiday decor in 2023, look no further. Here are some of the top trends to infuse fresh magic into your festive home: 1. Nature's Embrace: Bring the outdoors in with a natureinspired theme. Adorn your home with fresh greenery, pinecones, and wooden accents. Incorporate earthy tones and rustic textures to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that celebrates the beauty of the natural world. 2. Sustainable Splendor: This year, eco-conscious decor takes center stage. Opt for reusable, recyclable, or upcycled ornaments and decorations. Embrace the charm of vintage holiday decor or create your own DIY masterpieces using sustainable materials. 3. Monochromatic Magic: Streamline your decor with a monochromatic color scheme. Choose a single color or shades of one color to create a cohesive and elegant look. This minimalist approach allows your decor to make a bold statement. 4. Understated Elegance: Less can be more when it comes to holiday decor. Embrace a minimalist style by focusing on a few well-chosen pieces that exude timeless elegance. Think simple wreaths, classic ornaments, and subdued lighting for a refined ambiance. 5. Global Celebrations: Explore the world through your holiday decor by incorporating elements from diverse cultures. Infuse your space with the vibrant colors and patterns of global celebrations, from Moroccan lanterns to Mexican papel picado banners. 6. Tech-Savvy Twinkles: Embrace the magic of technology with smart lighting options. Sync your holiday lights with music or control them remotely with your smartphone. Create dazzling light displays that dance to the rhythm of your favorite festive tunes. 7. Vintage Revival: Give a nod to the past with a vintageinspired Christmas. Decorate your home with retro ornaments, antique trinkets, and mid-century modern accents. This nostalgic theme evokes the charm of yesteryears.

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8. Artistic Expressions: Elevate your decor with a touch of artistic flair. Incorporate hand-painted ornaments, personalized decorations, or showcase your own creative masterpieces. Celebrate the season as a canvas for selfexpression. 9. Fairy Tale Fantasy: Create a whimsical wonderland straight from a fairy tale. Enchant your space with magical creatures, sparkling lights, and ethereal decor that transports you to a world of enchantment and make-believe. 10. Cozy Comfort: Embrace the essence of hygge by focusing on coziness and comfort. Layer your home with plush throws, soft pillows, and warm lighting. Craft a snug, inviting retreat that beckons you to relax and savor the season. Whichever trend resonates with your holiday spirit, remember that the most important aspect of decorating is the joy it brings to your heart and the warmth it spreads to those you hold dear. May your holiday decor shine bright and your celebrations be filled with love and laughter. Rebecca Barnes is the Publisher of Prince William Living magazine and Brides & Weddings magazine. She is a lifelong resident of Prince William County and a volunteer with OWL VFD. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, being a Grandma, visiting Walt Disney World, reading, and sleeping.

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calendar “Making the Most of Prince William Living”

Online – On Demand Are you an advertiser with Prince William Living or interested in becoming one? Our publisher Rebecca Barnes will help you discover how to “Make the Most of Prince William Living.” Meet the people behind greater Prince William’s premier lifestyle magazine. Visit princewilliamliving.com/ lunchwiththepublisher.

Ice Skating

Harris Pavilion 9201 Center Street, Manassas Weather permitting, the ice rink at the Harris Pavilion will be open. Visit manassasva.gov/parks_culture_and_ recreation/ice_skating.php for hours of operation.

December First Friday: Santa Lights Manassas

Fri. Dec. 1 | 5:30 to 7 p.m. Historic Downtown Manassas Santa's coming to town! Also known as the Tree Lighting, this First Friday in December has been a Manassas tradition for over 25 years! Holiday musical performances kick off the event followed by Santa arriving at the Manassas Railroad Depot on the VRE train shortly after 6 p.m. After Santa lights the tree, he greets all the children and listens to their holiday wishes at the Harris Pavilion gazebo. The ice rink will be open (weather permitting), as will shops and restaurants.

Dale City Holiday Market

Sat. Dec. 2 | 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dale City Farmers Market 14090 Gemini Way, Dale City Come find unique gifts, crafts, specialty items and your favorite treats. From books, jewelry, leather goods, wreaths, holiday items, crocheted items, and more. Browse a wide selection of handcrafted goods, children’s clothing, and more from your favorite vendors!

77th Greater Manassas Christmas Parade

Sat. Dec. 2 | 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Historic Downtown Manassas The 77th Greater Manassas Christmas Parade is coming to town! The theme this year is Christmas in Toyland. Come out to continue the tradition of gathering in Historic Downtown Manassas for this annual parade.

14th Annual Red Carpet Showcase

Sat. Dec. 2 | 12 to 3 p.m. Montclair Golf Club 16500 Edgewood Drive, Montclair The Prince William County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is excited to host the 14th Annual Red Carpet Showcase! This free, public event encourages literacy and exposure to the arts, while providing an opportunity for emerging artists, authors and musicians to showcase their talents to the community. During the event, guests will have the opportunity to purchase artwork and books and enjoy delicious refreshments.

Manassas Symphony Orchestra

Sat. Dec. 2 | 3 p.m. Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas Come hear the family concert “Nature’s Rhythms.” Children’s tickets are free. Tickets: hyltoncenter.org

Silver Moon Emporium Yuletide Market

Sun. Dec. 3 | 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Salisbury Center 8890 Mathis Avenue, Manassas The Silver Moon Emporium Yuletide Magickal Market is an eclectic marketplace for the whimsical, witchy, weird, and anything in between. A great place to find unique gifts for the holiday season.

Genealogy 201

Thurs. Dec. 7 | 2 to 3:30 p.m. Montclair Library 5049 Waterway Drive, Dumfries Join RELIC' s Darlene Hunter for an informative and useful session to explore genealogy beyond basic family searches.

Historic Manassas Holiday Market

Sat. Dec. 9 | 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Manassas Train Depot Parking Lot 9431 West Street, Manassas Come to the market to find local producers, hand-crafted treasures, artisans, and food vendors selling their unique specialties.

Civil War Christmas at Ben Lomond

Sat. Dec. 9 | 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Ben Lomond Historic Site 10321 Sudley Manor Drive, Manassas Christmas 1861 brought many questions to the free and enslaved citizens of Prince William County and the soldiers huddled around warm fires in their winter camps. Explore how the war impacted the Pringle family at Ben Lomond and their Christmas traditions, as well as those of the local enslaved population. How did they deal with the Civil War’s first winter? Experience a Civil War Christmas at Ben Lomond Historic Site.

Manassas Chorale: Sounds of the Season

Sat. Dec. 9 | 7:30 p.m. Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas Get into the holiday spirit with the full Chorale and its 20-piece live orchestra in a concert of 15 carols and popular songs from around the world. Enjoy a variety of timeless selections as both voice and instrument combine for a glorious holiday musical experience. Tickets: hyltoncenter.org.

Vienna Boys Choir

Sunday, Dec. 10 | 2 p.m. Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas Let the angelic voices of the Vienna Boys Choir transport you to the snowy Alps where the air smells sweet and twinkling lights brighten the night sky. The ensemble is praised for its heavenly voices, harmonic purity, and endearing charm and is made up of boy sopranos and altos from ages 8 to 14 and from 31 countries. Tickets: hyltoncenter.org

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

26 | December 2023 prince william living

Early Hire Match Day for 2024 RN Graduates

Wed. Dec. 13 | 4 p.m. Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center Hylton Education Center 2300 Opitz Blvd., Woodbridge Sentara is hosting a Registered Nurse Match Day. Learn more about Sentara’s incentives, attractive benefits, and interview one-on-one with recruiters and hiring managers. If you're interested in this event but are unable to attend, email Christina Berry at CLBerry@sentara.com.

Model Railroad Show

Fri. Dec. 15 | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat. Dec. 16 | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Chinn Park Library 13065 Chinn Park Drive, Woodbridge Train lovers of all ages will enjoy this extensive exhibit of model railroads. Watch trains chug down the tracks and chat with engineers and enthusiasts from the Prince William Model Railroad Club.

ARTfactory Pied Piper Intensive: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

Fri. Dec. 15 | 7 p.m. Sat. Dec. 16 | 2 and 7 p.m. Sun. Dec. 17 | 2 p.m. ARTfactory 9419 Battle Street, Manassas Based on the well-loved book by Barbara Robinson, The Best Christmas Pageant

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space to wrap their gifts in peace. Please email sparker2@pwcgov.org for more information.

Prince William Chamber of Commerce Holiday Gala

Sat. Dec. 23 | 12 to 10 p.m. Ornery Beer Taproom 8088 Flannery Court, Manassas Wear your ugly sweaters for a chance to win gift certificates up to $200. Winner announced on Facebook. Get $1 off all pints if you’re wearing an ugly sweater! Food truck on site and to-go beer specials.

Sat. Dec. 16 | 6 to 10 p.m. Heritage Hunt Golf & Country Club 6901 Arthur Hills Drive, Gainesville Plan your office holiday party by joining the Chamber for the Gala. This will be a black-tie event you don't want to miss! Tickets: pwchamber.org.

Nothin’ Fancy Bluegrass

Sat. Dec. 16 | 7:30 p.m. Bull Run Unitarian Universalists 9350 Main Street, Manassas Join Nothin' Fancy for their annual show in Old Town Manassas! Expect plenty of originals and holiday tunes.

Ribbon Rendevous

Mon. Dec. 18 | 4 to 7:30 p.m. Tues. Dec. 18 | 4 to 7:30 p.m. Wed. Dec. 20 | 4 to 7:30 p.m. Thurs. Dec. 21 | 1 to 4 p.m. Fri. Dec. 22 | 1 to 4 p.m. Chinn Park Library 13065 Chinn Park Drive, Woodbridge Need a quiet place to wrap your presents? Join the first Gift Wrapping Week at Chinn Park! The library will be providing space, materials, and gift-wrapping tutorials for anyone who needs some

Ugly Sweater Day

Splashin’ New Year’s Eve

Sun. Dec. 31 | 2 to 3:30 p.m. and 4 to 5:30 p.m. PWCS Aquatics Center 13833 Dumfries Road, Door 25, Manassas Voted one of “PWC’s Best Places to Work” in 2022, the PWCS Aquatics Center is also one of the best kept secrets in the county for family friendly community events! Please come to the inaugural “Splashin’ New Year’s Eve” celebration, diving into 2024! Exclusive use of both pools, water line dances, photo booth opportunities, music, countdown, and balloon drop! Registration: nye.pwcsaquatics.com. All events listed on Prince William Living’s online and print calendars are subject to change. Check with the venue to verify dates, times and locations.

We Create & Foster Enduring Image!

Audiobooks, e-books, music, movies, and more: all available on your devices, all free with your PWPL library card.

pwcva.gov/digitallibrary

Have an event? Visit princewilliamliving.com/events to submit details for our online calendar. prince william living December 2023 | 27

James Villani, Music Director

Family Concert

“Nature’s Rhythms” December 2nd • 3:30pm

571-402-4713

Tickets: HyltonCenter.org

TSmith-Photography.com

www.manassassymphony.org

Tavan@Tsmith-photography.com

Children’s Tickets Are Free

Give the Gif of CAMP! UnderTheStarsInc.org camp@underthestarsinc.org

Under the Stars Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations support camp program and financial assistance.

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YOUR COMPANY HERE? Contact us at sales@princewilliamliving.com

28 | December 2023 prince william living

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For an annual $20 donation to Give Back Prince William (a 501c(3) non-profit organization), you can get YOUR community magazine delivered to your door! Already get it? Make sure you continue to get it by subscribing. Show your support and help us continue the work we do. Name ______________________________________________ Address _____________________________________________ City ________________________________________________ State _________________________

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Pay by check or online. Visit www.pwliving.com/subscription to pay by Visa, Mastercard or American Express, or please include a check or money order made out to “Give Back Prince William” for the total amount to: Prince William Living ATTN: Circulation Department 9994 Sowder Village Square #816 Manassas, Virginia 20109

ENJOY THE HOLIDAYS

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