B rookside MARCH 2021
An exclusive magazine serving the residents of Brookside, Vint Hill, Snow Hill, Jamison’s Farm, Warrenton Chase and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Neighbors
West Coast Couple Plants Their Roots in Fauquier:
Meet the Camarillos
THIS ISSUE:
- Kettle Run Seniors: Thoughts on the Past Year - p. 13 - Comfort cooking: Shepherd's Pie - p.16 - Pickleball Farm Opens Spring Break Day Camp - p. 24 Cover photo by The Little Photo Shop
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PUB LICATI O N T EA M Publishers: Michael and Debbie Wykowski Content Coordinator: Aimée O’Grady Designer: Jenna Heling Contributing Photographer: Melinda Ratcliff, The Little Photo Shop ADV ERTI S I N G Contact: Michael and Debbie Wykowski Email: mwykowski@bestversionmedia.com or dwykowski@bestversionmedia.com Phone: 703-203-9130
Dear Residents, Despite my surname and my mixed European heritage, I’m not actually Irish. That’s all my husband’s paternal family. I am a second-generation American. Each of my grandparents left their country (France, Spain, and Colombia) to make their way to New York City, ultimately becoming a chef, housekeeper, handyman, and seamstress. So, while I find the Irish countryside gorgeous, the Cliffs of Mohr breathtaking, the smell of peat burning in the winter charming, the food delicious, the towns quaint, and the music lively and emotional, I’m not sure what I think about that Irish luck.
FEED B ACK/ID EAS /S U BM I SS I O N S : Have feedback, ideas or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to www. bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: aogrady@bestversionmedia.com.
Personally, I am a believer in making my own luck. Perhaps it’s lucky to catch a fly-ball at a baseball game, but it was your decision to put yourself in those seats, wasn’t it? My grandparents didn’t wait for luck to come around. They knew their options in New York City would exceed their options in their home country… although since my paternal grandmother was from the French Alps, I would argue that with her today if I could!
HOA SUB MISSION I N FO RM AT I O N Are you on the association board for your subdivision? Contact us for information on how you can submit articles, updates, reminders, events and more to the residents. We create customized homeowners association sections at no cost to the HOA or the residents.
In this issue, we meet a few luck-makers. Jay Hall, our feature nonprofit, left a career as a fireman to pursue the sport of Pickleball. See page 24 for more information. Having gained a few sponsors, he’s opening his farm up for Pickleball camps to be a role model for youth. Our feature family couple, Sally and Jorge, take life by the reigns on page 6. In only a few months, the couple met and were expecting their first child. A decade later, they are living on the opposite coast and throwing themselves into small businesses and expedition events.
Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2021 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.
We also feature a recipe by our regular contributor, but this month, we also feature an announcement of Anita’s success in obtaining 2,500lbs of salmon for our local food pantry. It was hardly luck that made this happen. This catch was the result of dedication and commitment. The Kettle Run Prom Committee isn’t going to let their seniors down! Read testimonials from KRHS seniors and contribute to their cause to help give this year’s seniors the best sendoff possible and wish them all the luck they can make for themselves in the future! We check back in with Garet Zagorski, who may truly have the luck of the Irish...well, that and a whole lot of talent, having won another Irish Dancing competition. He is gearing up for the World’s Championships of Irish Dance scheduled for this summer. Finally, we would like to extend our heartfelt best wishes to Amanda Bryson. Amanda is the school administrator of Covenant Christian Academy and is fighting cancer, having just recovered from COVID-19. She has spent over 40 days in the hospital, and we wish her better health, recovery, and a discharge soon to return home. Our thoughts are with you, Amanda, your family, and the Covenant Christian Academy community. May you each succeed in making your own luck with all your future plans!
Aimée O’Grady
Content Coordinato
r
Debbie and M ichael Wykow ski Publishers
Brookside Neighbors
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EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Michael and Debbie Wykowski at dwykowski@bestversionmedia.com or 703-203-9130.
HEATING, COOLING AND PLUMBING Appleton Campbell | Featured Employee: Sunny Singanong — “I’ve been in the HVAC industry for 12 years and the last 2 with Appleton Campbell have been the best by far. I’ve seen my career excel and I look forward to many more years working here.” – Sunny Singanong, HVAC Service Technician Appleton Campbell is a Class A contractor with masters in Plumbing, Gas Fitter, HVAC and Electrical. 540-347-0765 | appletoncampbell.com
FLOORING AND CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENT Early’s Carpet, Inc.| Sonja Betts, Lorraine Early, Solon Betts Early’s Carpet, Inc., your hometown store with so much under one roof, is currently celebrating 54 years in the flooring and window treatment business. Early’s is a family operated business – Lorraine, co-founder since 1966, daughter Sonja Betts is Store Manager, Decorator, Window Treatment Specialist, and son-in-law Solon Betts is a Ceramic Craftsman and heads up all installation crews. The store is known for its’ “In-Stock” floor coverings availability. Do not let the name fool you – they are EXPERTS in all floor coverings, hardwood, laminate, ceramic, vinyl, and carpeting. We are also pleased to be a Centurion Dealer for Hunter Douglas custom window treatments. Drive a little, save a lot! 540-937-5500 |www.earlyscarpet.com
DESIGN BUILD – KITCHEN AND BATH REMODELS AND NEW HOMES Golden Rule Builders, Inc. | Joel Barkman Joel is the President/Owner of Golden Rule Builders, Inc a design build firm in Catlett, VA specializing in kitchen/ bath remodels and custom homes. Joel has been named the Builder of the Year by the Northern Virginia Building Industry Association (NVBIA), and Business Person of the Year by the Fauquier County Chamber of Commerce.Joel and his wife Patty have five children and are active members of the Dayspring Mennonite Church. He also serves on the boards of Good Life Ministries in India, New Horizons Ministries in Colorado, Lord Fairfax Community College and Fauquier Hospital. 540-788-3539 | www.GoldenRuleBuilders.com Facebook: www.Facebook.com/GoldenRuleBuilders FAMILY DENTISTRY Robert C. Flikeid, DDS and Associates Featured Dentist: Amanda Toulme, DDS. Dr. Amanda Toulme is a general dentist at the office of Robert C. Flikeid, DDS and Associates in Warrenton, VA. The dental practice was founded in 1875 by the grandfather of Dr. William H. Allison. As the original and longest standing dental practice of Warrenton, VA, they are dedicated to providing quality dental care for their multigenerational patients and their community. Dr. Toulme obtained her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry and completed a General Practice Residency at the Baltimore Veterans Affairs (VA) Hospital, where she obtained advanced training in general dentistry, oral surgery, endodontics, and prosthodontics. Additionally, Dr. Toulme is certified in Invisalign therapy. Dr. Toulme loves the personal aspect of dentistry and is dedicated to serving our community with quality, integrity, and compassion. 540-347-3396 | www.warrentonfamilydentistry.com/
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FAMILY LAW, CRIMINAL LAW AND ESTATE PLANNING Mark B. Williams and Associates, PLC Featured Attorney - Alyssa D. Phillips Mark B. Williams has been practicing law in Virginia since 1990. He focuses on criminal law and personal injury. The firm also includes attorneys Alyssa D. Phillips, an experienced family law advocate, William D. Ashwell, who handles estate planning, business, and civil litigation cases, and Joseph R. Pricone, who practices criminal and traffic law. Mark B. Williams and Associates provides a high level of personal service and a total commitment to protecting the interests of the their clients. (540) 347-6595 | www.mbwalaw.com EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION Saint James’ Episcopal School | Rachel Sirene Saint James’ Episcopal School (SJES) in old town Warrenton offers preschool (age 2) through Grade 5 with purposefully small class sizes, caring faculty, appropriately challenging academics, Christ-centered worship, and multiple service opportunities. Academics are rooted in children’s innate curiosity to learn, whether in preschool through play, or elementary classes with project-based learning across all curriculum or exploring the outdoors through inquiry-driven discoveries. SJES is accredited by VAIS. 540-347-3855 | www.saintjamesepiscopalschool.org PRIVATE EDUCATION Covenant Christian Academy | Amanda Bryson Covenant Christian Academy (CCA) is a VCPE-recognized independent school located between Gainesville and Warrenton, Virginia. CCA is a certified member of UniversityModel® Schools International and is fully accredited with AdvancED. Our international organization supports over 80 collegepreparatory schools worldwide. The University-Model® combines the best aspects of public, private, and home education. 540-680-4111 | info@covenantva.org | www.covenantva.org
DOG WALKING, PET SITTING AND PET CARE SERVICES My Pet’s Friend | Melissa and Richard Macias My Pet’s Friend is veteran-owned and provides fully licensed and bonded dog walking, pet sitting and pet care services in Fauquier County. Brookside residents Melissa and Richard took over MPF in 2018, having been its original clients in 2009. Their core mission: Providing pets with love and care in the comfort of their own home while providing owners with a stress-free way to handle their pet’s needs without compromising their own security and privacy needs. 540-905-4884 | missy@my-pets-friend.com www.my-pets-friend.com
LANDSCAPING Landkraft Landscape LLC | John Gorg John Gorg is owner and operator of Landkraft Landscape, LLC where “Landscapes with Distinction” are created. Landkraft a design-build company specializing in outdoor living spaces featuring fine patios, walks and planting arrangements. John is a graduate of Virginia Tech’s landscape architecture program, has 20+ years experience in the field, and a personal touch to make each project a success through a process of consultation, creative landscape design and quality craftsmanship. 571-237-5719 | www.landkraftlandscape.net
INSURANCE State Farm Insurance | Carmen Rivera Carmen first started with State Farm in May 2000. She and her team help the members of our community manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected and realize their dreams. They always provide exceptional, personalized and caring customer service for you and your family! They are focused on Auto, Homeowners, Renters, Life and Small Business Insurance in Warrenton and the surrounding areas. 540-347-1566 | www.carmenriverainsurance.com carmen.rivera.e3uu@statefarm.com
HOME CARE EverNest Home Care | Chris Gay Chris Gay is the owner of EverNest Home Care, a licensed home-care provider located in Warrenton and serving clients throughout the Northern Virginia area. From personal care services to companionship services and beyond, EverNest’s home care offerings are tailored to suit each of their client’s lifestyles and needs wherever they call “home.” Through their extremely selective recruitment process, they’ve taken the care necessary to curate the best team of nurturing, attentive professionals. 571-483-8806 |www.evernestcare.com
EYE CARE Dr. Shannon Moore and Associates Dr. Shannon Moore, Optometrist This practice has been providing expert eyecare to Warrenton and the surrounding commuities since 1979. Dr. Shannon Moore joined the practice in 2005 and Dr. Lisa Butterfield in 2015. Having vast knowledge of ocular disease, surgical eyecare and optics, the doctors can diagnose, manage and treat a variety of ocular diseases as well provide patients with the most accurate prescriptions for their glasses and/or contacts. They also co-manage with several leading ophthalmologists to ensure that any ocular condition they find can be managed and treated by the appropriate doctors. The practice has been voted "Best of Warrenton" and "Best of Fauquier" a total of seven times since 2007. 540-347-0555 | www.warrentoneyes.com
DERMATOLOGY Lawrence J. Finkel, M.D. Dermatology Dr. Larry Finkel - Board Certified Dermatologist For almost 20 years, Dr. Larry Finkel has served the community's dermatological needs. He is Warrenton's and Fauquier County's most experienced and longest practicing dermatologist. As a member of several dermatology-related associations, he has lectured and is published in professional journals. Dr. Finkel is also an avid community sponsor, supporting many groups including: the Fauquier Free Clinic , the Fauquier Hospital Foundation, the Falcon Booster Club at Fauquier High School, the Piedmont Symphony Orchestra, the American Children of SCORE, and Allegro CSA. He also performs with Fauquier Community Theater and sings tenor in Mint Condition—a local Barbershop Quartet. 540-347-2020 | finkelderm.com PERFORMING ARTS Lasley Centre for the Performing Arts | Kalie Lasley Kalie Lasley is an American Ballet Theatre (ABT) Affiliate Teacher and the Executive Director of Lasley Centre for the Performing Arts in Vint Hill. Ms. Lasley has an extensive background in dance, including time as a professional dancer at the prestigious San Francisco Ballet. Lasley Centre opened in 2011, growing into a 9,000 square foot, state-of-the-art facility where students from preballet to pre-professional train to be technically sound artists in a nurturing environment. 540-905-2782 | klasley@lasleycentre.com | www.lasleycentre.com
TAX PREPARATION Marshall Consulting Group, LLC | Douglas M. Marshall, III CPA As a leader in the accounting industry Doug is committed to providing close, personal attention to his clients. He takes pride in giving you the assurance that the personal assistance you receive comes from years of advanced training, technical experience and financial acumen. “We believe in the value of relationships. We view every client relationship like a partnership, and truly believe that our success is a result of your success!” 540-347-2161 | www.mcgllccpa.com
CABINET PAINTING Heather’s Painted Treasures | Heather Workman Heather Workman is the owner and operator at Heather’s Painted Treasures. Her team specializes in taking tired and dated cabinetry and give them “new life.” They have a unique style of prep, cleaning, priming and painting your cabinet doors and drawer fronts in their temperature controlled, ventilated and dust free paint booth. This results in amazing cabinets that are as close to “factory new” without the factory! 703-655-7852 | www.heatherspaintedtreasures.com
REAL ESTATE RE/MAX Regency | Dawn Arruda Dawn is an experienced 3rd generation real estate professional dedicated to providing her clients with the highest level of service. For her, “Real Estate is more than selling a house. It is marketing a home and making sure my clients have a smooth and worry-free experience from start to finish.” Dawn uses a designer approach and the latest technology to make it happen. 540-729-6740 | www.dawnarruda.com | arrudahomes@teamregency.com
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Resident Feature
West Coast Couple Plants Their Roots in Fauquier:
Meet the Camarillos By Aimée O’Grady | Photography by The Little Photo Shop
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We would like to thank The Brown Real Estate Team for sponsoring this month's feature story. Sally and Jorge met on a blind date in 2009 in San Diego, where Sally was born. Jorge, originally from Arizona, was stationed there when he served in the military. Not long after they met, they decided to start a family. Son, Jayden, was born a year later, and the couple married in November 2011. That same year Jorge left the Navy and was employed by a company that required frequent travel. “Since Jayden was so little, I was able to bring him along on trips with Jorge,” said Sally. Sally loved traveling with Jorge. With a passion for cuisine, she took advantage of sampling signature dishes from each state they visited. “When our second son, Jaxon, was four months old in January 2014, Jorge accepted a position with an East Coast company, and we made the move,” said Sally. They originally moved to Pasadena, Maryland, which was a big change for the couple. “We lived there for nearly a year before we found a house in Warrenton. It was a big culture shock,” she says. The couple settled on 1 acre in Warrenton at the end of 2014. They love how they are raising their children, which now include two daughters. “We have a nice yard and a lot of room for the kids. We’ve even gotten a few chickens in the past year,” said Sally. Boys, ages 10 and 7, play baseball locally. Jaxon with the Greater Fauquier Baseball Little League and Jayden with the Team Titans Travel baseball 10U. The boys are looking forward to this year’s baseball season. Daughters, Leilah, age 5, and Savannah, age 4, take ballet classes. The couple also has a daughter from Jorge’s previous relationship, who is almost 23 and lives in Arizona. Sally and Jorge are proud of the woman she has become. “She bought her first home at age 20 and she just continues to amaze us,” says
Sally. This past holiday season, the family gifted themselves with an RV camper. On December 15, they packed up the camper and headed west for California. There they visited with Sally’s two brothers and her mother, who is undergoing cancer treatment. From California, the couple made their way eastward, stopped in several states along the way to visit with family and friends. Their stops included Arizona, to
see Jorge’s family, New Mexico, Texas, where Sally’s father lives, and Tennessee, where Jorge’s sister lives. With over a decade of work requiring frequent travel, Jorge accepted a new job and began working from home prior to the pandemic. The transition from 75% travel to 100% at home was a welcomed one. “The kids are getting older and we want to be together more,” said Sally.
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For Sally, being a stay-at-home mother is ideal, and during this time, she maintained a food blog. Recently, Sally launched a new endeavor: Sally’s Table. “My passion is food. Traveling with Jorge really opened my eyes to different cuisine,” she said. “I was a food critique for several years in California and began getting known for that. This was a natural progression,” she continued. “My passion for food really began when I was in high school.” As a senior, she needed to complete a senior project. She elected to cook a feast for homeless children for Thanksgiving. “It was a very rewarding experience and really made me look differently at food,” she shared. Sally’s Table brings the restaurant home. “People are busier than ever and managing so much these days that home cooked meals are going by the wayside. They are also not going out to eat as much due to COVID concerns. Sally’s Table offers families a restaurant-quality meal at home. I bring all the ingredients to them and will prepare dinner.” At home, Sally jokes that her kids will just log onto her Instagram account and pick something for her to make for dinner. For the couple, who share Mexican heritages, their favorite meal to enjoy is Mexican. Sally hopes to put the family’s favorite recipes into the first of several cookbooks. When she isn’t in the kitchen, Sally can be found at Old Town Athletic campus alongside Jorge. “I love boxing,” she says. “We joined the gym when we first moved here and it
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has become a huge part of our lives.” Jorge, meanwhile, is training for an expedition event called Sea to Sea, which takes place at the end of February in Florida. The event is three days and includes biking, kayaking, and running, among other events. Although he feels the Navy trained him well for this, he has been hitting the gym regularly to stay conditioned. We will check back in with Jorge in a future issue to see how the event was. The RV won’t be parked for long. Sally has a list of places both near and far that the family will be enjoying together
in the new year, including the Poconos and South Carolina. And for Jorge, while the RV won’t get him there, he has fond memories of the time he spent in Indonesia with the Navy. “I was in Java,” he says. “As you can imagine, they had amazing coffee there in addition to their food.” While the couple’s transition to the east coast was daunting at times, over the past decade, they have learned to manage new experiences like snowfall and reaching out to ask for help when they need it since they no longer have a family support network. “We have a great community,” Sally said. “Over the years, people have walked up and introduced themselves to me. On more than on occasion, this has led to long-term friendships.” Jorge and Sally look forward to everything this year has to offer their family and making more new friends in Warrenton.
Do you know a neighbor who has a story to share? Nominate your neighbor to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact us at a aogrady@bestversionmedia.com.
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Expert Contributor
Hiring a Professional Remodeler Joel Barkman, President and CEO/Founder
Any homeowner planning to remodel wants nothing less than a professional job. Who wouldn't want the best quality in terms of workmanship and materials when it comes to improving their most prized and most valuable asset? However, when it comes to selecting a remodeler, too many buyers conveniently forget the time-proven adage that "you get what you pay for."
The nature of remodeling as a service becomes even more pronounced when you consider that inevitably you'll be sharing your home with the remodelers' crews for weeks or even months, depending on the scale of the project. All remodeling involves some degree of inconvenience, but inconvenience can easily turn into a nightmare if your remodeler doesn't put your family's comfort and concerns first.
The dilemma that confronts many homeowners is their desire for a top-notch job at the lowest possible price. With price as their primary focus, they ignore other criteria that may carry more weight in producing a successfully completed project and a smooth working relationship with the remodeler.
Rather than selecting a remodeler based on where one bid falls compared to others, shift your focus to finding a professional remodeler, then go about getting a bid on your job. If the bid is higher than what you budgeted, work with the remodeler to decide where you can cut back or what you can postpone to keep the project on budget. For example, you can always have the remodeler frame in a fireplace to be installed later, but he can't upgrade the company's customer service if there wasn't any to begin with.
Homeowners need to understand that remodeling is a service and not merely a product. This service encompasses the intangibles that make up the process of remodeling - how everything comes together and results in a satisfying experience and an acceptable finished product. The materials and products that go into it can't define a professional job alone.
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Some important characteristics you should be looking for to ensure that you hire a professional remodeler are: Experience — Ask how long the remodeler has been in business. Longevity suggests financial stability, which is necessary for the remodeler to finish the job and still be available if problems crop up after the job is completed. Also, the more jobs the company has completed, the more expertise the remodeler will bring to your project and the hidden surprises that remodeling typically entails. Reputation — Look to the remodelers' former and current customers to gauge the company's reputation. Obtain the names and phone numbers of customers you can call to get their impressions of the company's work and customer service. Call them and make personal visits to see the work they had done. Even better, get references from customers whose projects were similar to the one your family is planning. Also, go visit one of the company's jobs in progress to evaluate how they manage the construction process and how tidy they keep the job site. Ask whether these homeowners would hire the company again. Business Credentials — A good place to start your search for a remodeler is with your local builders' association. Groups like these help to keep their members informed about new products, construction techniques, business practices, and industry issues. Participation demonstrates a remodeler's commitment to professionalism and to the remodeling industry. Many trade groups also confer professional credentials,
such as Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), to those who meet their requirements, which is a positive indicator of the remodeler's reputation.
PRESCHOOL 2 - GRADE 5
License and Insurance — Ask to see a copy of the remodeler's license, if your state has such requirements, and call the licensing agency to find out if there are any unresolved complaints against the company you might hire. It is also important to verify that the remodeler carries workers' compensation and liability insurance. Have the remodeler show you copies of both insurance certificates to protect yourself from liability in situations involving job site injuries or property damage resulting from the work being done on your home. If your goal is a professional remodeling project, then your best bet is to hire a professional remodeler. The extra cost will pay for itself in the satisfaction you receive while the project is in progress, and during the many years you will enjoy the completed project. To find a professional in your area, contact NVBIA at 703-817-0154, or visit www.NVBIA.com.
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Community Content
Congratulations to Garet Zagorski on his Latest Win! By Aimée O’Grady
Congratulations to Whippoorwill Irish dancer, Garet Zagorski, for his latest win in Cheyenne, Wyoming! Garet’s mom, Kristin, judges Irish dance competitions. She was invited to judge in Cheyenne, Wyoming, and decided to take Garet along so he could compete. While his mom was judging, he went to his stage on his own, performed 3 dances and won his competition against 12 other boys and girls ranging in ages 8-12! Garet is pictured here with a mask. Dancers are required to wear masks during the event. Because of COVID, they now dance one at a time instead of two or three at a time. Dancers may remove their mask while dancing and put it back on when finished. This was Garet’s first time to Wyoming. In December, Garet claimed his 4th consecutive regional title. Then championships were held in Orlando, Florida. By winning, he also qualified for the Worlds Championships of Irish dance to be held in Dublin, Ireland, in July, pending COVID. Garet will represent the Southern region of Irish dance and the USA at the competition. He is one of the
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top contenders to win the World title. Garet also won an online regional competition under 10 last September, where he created his own choreography. He went on to the global online competition and was the top boy, coming 2nd overall. Outside of competition, Garet takes grade exams, where an examiner grades dancers on their ability, knowledge, technique, and execution of Irish dancing. There are 12 grade exams. Garet just completed grades 7 and 8 and passed with the highest distinction. Irish dancers who wish to become dance teachers must pass all 12 exams. Garet certainly has not let the pandemic slow him down. He loves the places he travels and enjoys making new friends. He has the luck of the Irish with him always. Garet dances for Kristin Butke Irish Dance, formerly known as Southern Academy. You can see Garet and dance mates performing at Molly’s Irish pub on St. Patrick’s Day.
Celebrate
KRHS SENIORS By Leslie Cox
T
he class of 2021’s junior and senior years have not been the traditional school years that create fond memories. The current world events have created not only uncertainty of the way forward, but a loss of many traditions that come with the achievement of completing high school. While the end of year celebrations for the graduating class of 2021 may look very different this year, friends, family, and the community know their accomplishments are important and deserve recognition. Though no determination is yet known as to how the school year will wrap up for our students, the Committee for the After Prom held at Kettle Run is working to provide the traditional prizes that would be available at a typical After Prom event. The Kettle Run community has been so generous in years past, we are hoping that generosity will continue for the students of the Class of 2021 and beyond. Please help us to continue this community sponsored recognition. Look for the After Prom committee on Facebook, KRHS After Prom, or Twitter @KRAfterProm. Additionally, Fauquier Excellence in Education Foundation is assisting us as well (You can reach FEIEF at https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/NzE2OTc=)
Brandon Strickland - Varsity Football Player Due to Covid, social life has been minimized and fun with teammates and friends has been drastically reduced. It has been hard finding the motivation to do virtual schooling and not being at school with friends and teachers. I would like to have a Prom and have life go back to normal. I would like to be able to celebrate my last year of high school with my teammates and friends. One thing I am thankful for is the ability to get more hours at work which helps me save up for my mission trip. Randy DeVere – Marching Band Drum Major It was not the much-anticipated Senior year in high school. Missing the end-of-week Friday night football games, with our Marching Band playing the KRHS fight song, the cheerleaders and the Cage, and fans in the stands. Not to mention Mr. Davidson’s commentary of the game and “Ice Cold Beverages”. I had looked forward to spending my Senior year with friends I had grown up with, some of which I have known since preschool. The transition to a virtual learning has been rocky. It’s a whole new experience on how to learn, and I’m sure, how to teach. Everyone has their own learning style and not all of us match with virtual learning. I had looked forward to both a Junior and a Senior Proms, but those were not possible in our Covid world. And I expect graduation will not be the traditional social event that everyone, but the class of 2020, experienced. I am thankful for the option to go in to school and see my friends in class. I spent last semester all virtual. Being physically in class keeps me more focused and in the moment so much more than
This year has been hard on everyone, but we are very proud of all our students for their unyielding flexibility and drive to make the best of a situation that is out of their control. We know that they will take what they have learned this year, both in the classroom and behind the computer, and apply it to their future education and careers. The future is bright for the class of 2021 and we stand behind you with our support!
"A bright future beckons. The onus is on us, through hard work, honesty, and integrity to reach for the stars." Below we are featuring a small sample of our Seniors and their thoughts on this school year. Kara Blakely – Color Guard This year has been especially hard for seniors in the Arts. Not being able to perform and do what we love has really taken a toll on the mental health of the students involved in the Arts. I miss Color Guard/ Marching Band and all of our incredible music concerts more than anything. I can speak on behalf of all of the seniors in the Music Department when I say that we can’t wait to eventually get back to doing what makes us happy.
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being virtual. I am thankful for the teachers who are adapting their teaching styles and finding creative ways to get and keep our attention while online. I am thankful for my band teacher who has come up with really fun software for us to accompany with ourselves playing our instrument. For one Assignment last semester we took a piece, recorded ourselves playing each of three different parts on our instrument then merge them into one video with the music being synchronized as if we were playing with a group. It was something that I doubt we would have explored if we were not spending so much time virtual. Dalton Odom – Varsity Lacrosse, Math Honor Society You had a Homecoming, sports with a stadium full of fans cheering you on, band and chorus concerts, plays, lunch with classmates, Prom/ AfterProm. We did not! Even though I am a ‘go with the flow’ type, my senior year has been a disappointment. I will take what I have learned this past year and utilize the new skills in college. One thing I am thankful for is my nagging parents who want the best for me. Alyson Mellon – Marching Band Senior year has not been what I have always thought it would be. I was looking forward to my Senior Marching Band season, Senior Night, Homecoming, Prom, and a normal graduation. Covid has changed things so much, and I hope things go back to normal soon so that Senior year can end with big celebrations. The one thing I am
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thankful for is that I get the option to see my friends, in school, at least two days a week. Colton Austin - Varsity Football Player The most challenging thing as a Senior this year has been not being able to interact with any friends and underclassmen in the hallways at school. My Senior year I was looking forward to the Senior vs Faculty basketball games, all the pep-rallies, the student section of the football games, Homecoming, and a lot of stuff that didn’t happen. I hope that at least we get to have a Prom. It would be fun to go to After-Prom afterwards. One thing I am thankful for is the ability to work and use technology to connect with family and friends. Audrey Rader - Theater There are many things that I am missing out on for my Senior year. For example, football games, Homecoming, the pep rally, sports, Prom, and lunch at the Senior tables. But the thing that I am missing most is performing. For the last four years I have been a part of the Pied Piper Theatre Company and have been cast in many shows. Since the Corona virus has hit, all theatre productions have been canceled. We pay for everything with ticket sales and without an audience we can't sell tickets. I love entertaining and being a part of something as big as a musical or play. There is a good chance I will never perform with my friends again and I would give anything to do one last show with them. With all the things that I have lost or missed during my senior year I am thankful that the people who are closest to me have stayed healthy or have endured and recovered during this pandemic. When all is said and done nothing is more important than the people we love. Ashley Gentry – SCA, Golf When all of us were younger, we dreamed of having the best Senior year. Everything took a turn, and no one saw this coming. We are missing out on our Senior Homecoming, pep rally, Prom, etc. Not having a Senior Homecoming is sad because none of us knew that our Junior Homecoming would've been our last one. Not being able to go to football games, or any other games, has been challenging. We never got to experience a Senior pep rally or a Prom in high school, and that's what people look forward to most. The one thing I am thankful for is having the opportunity to play my senior golf season and be able to attend school now. Morgan Able – SCA The thing I miss the most is school spirit. I miss the marching band storming the halls on game days, afternoon club meetings, spirit weeks, Friday nights in the Cage, pep rallies, Homecomings, and everything in between. As a Senior, it’s heartbreaking to miss out on these things that make high school so special. One thing I am thankful for is despite all of the craziness this past year, I am so beyond thankful for all of my family and friends.
WOULD YOU LIKE A FREE WINE TASTING, CHROMEBOOK, OR DINNER? Do you know of a local business that would benefit from sponsorship advertising in a Neighbors publication? Just send an email to the business owner and dwykowski@bestversionmedia.com with a note connecting us. If your recommended local business becomes a sponsor, you will receive one of the following FREE: • DINNER FOR TWO at the Brass Cannon Restaurant at STONEWALL GOLF CLUB • WINE TASTING for two at MORAIS VINEYARDS • CHROMEBOOK
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Brookside Neighbors
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Comfort Cooking
Shepherd's Pie Ingredients - For the filling By Anita Parris-Soule
Making these recipes is like some sort of full immersion therapy exercise. I call this "comfort cooking." I love the whole process, from chopping the veggies to whipping the potatoes to shoving the whole thing in the oven. But now, as much as I love it, it makes my heart ache as it floods me with memories and emotion. Both my father and grandfather were subscribed to my blog, and I'd get the sweetest emails from them after I had posted something. After I posted this one, my dad sent an email titled "happiness tears" from Afghanistan. In the body, he wrote just one sweet sentence: "I just woke up and got your Shepherd's Pie blog and it made me start weeping." This was the relationship my dad and I had. I wouldn't say it revolved around food, but food, cooking, eating, planning meals, shopping for food together was just such a huge part of our relationship. We had a mutual love for all things food. I am so grateful to him for instilling that love in me, and I am so glad I cooked by his side from the time I could barely peek over the countertop, until last summer. I watched him make Shepherd's Pie countless times. While it makes me incredibly sad knowing I will never watch him or help him make it again, I am so glad I learned this, and so many other recipes from him.
• 2lbs ground beef • 1 medium yellow or white onion, finelyminced • 2 stalks celery, finely diced • 1 large carrot, or two small/medium carrots, finely diced • 1 or 2 bay leaves • 2-3 cloves fresh garlic, peeled and finely minced • 1 cup wine-red, white, rosé, marsala-whatever you have open • ½ cup brewed coffee (optional) • 3 cups chicken or beef broth • 1 sprig fresh rosemary, leaves removed and finely chopped (optional) • a few springs fresh thyme, leaves removed and finely chopped (optional) • 2 tablespoons tomato paste (if I'm out of tomato paste I just omit it. No big deal) • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce • ¼ cup all-purpose flour • salt and pepper to taste (the salt will depend greatly on the saltiness of your broth, so just taste and adjust as needed) • about 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
Ingredients - For the potatoes • 2 ½- 3 lbs (about 6) Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped into large chunks • 1 stick butter • 4 ounces cream cheese • ½ to 1 cup milk (you might not need the whole cup) • 3 whole cloves of garlic, peeled • 2 bay leaves • salt and pepper to taste
Ingredients - For the topping (optional) • 1 cup of grated, really sharp white cheddar
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
POTATOES: First, get your potatoes going. Add your peeled, chopped potatoes, whole peeled garlic cloves, and bay leaves to a large pot of generously salted water. Bring to a boil and simmer gently for about 30 minutes until very,
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very tender. (You can get the meat mixture cooking while you're waiting). Once potatoes are tender, drain in a colander, remove bay leaves but leave the garlic, add potatoes back to pot and add butter and cream cheese. Let sit until the butter and cream cheese soften a bit. Then, with a hand mixer or potato masher, mix or mash until all potatoes are mashed. My dad always used a hand mixer and made the creamiest mashed potatoes. Then, add milk in stages while mashing until you reach the desired consistency. You want a nice soft mash, but not so soupy you won't be able to scoop it out later; ½ to ¾ cup milk should be plenty. Taste potatoes for salt, and add salt and pepper to taste. Usually a teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of pepper are sufficient, but taste your food! It should taste the way you want it to taste! MEAT FILLING: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until most of the pink is gone, about 10 minutes. Then, add carrot, celery, onion, garlic, rosemary, bay leaves, and season with a big pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper. Cook this mixture for about 10 minutes. If your beef is really fatty, scoop out excess fat. This is optional, and really depends on your meat choice. Next, add tomato paste, and stir to combine. Then sprinkle flour over meat mixture, and stir until you don't see white anymore. Add wine, stock, and coffee if using, and cook for about 15-20 minutes over medium heat, stirring frequently, and scraping the bottom. The mixture will thicken. It should be a thick, gravy-like consistency. ASSEMBLY: Either assemble your Shepherd's Pie in the dish you've cooked your meat mixture in, or spray a 2 quart casserole dish with non-stick spray. Transfer meat to baking dish, and spread into an even layer. If using peas, add them now. Just an even layer on top will do. Next, add potatoes. I place large spoonfuls all around the top of the meat mixture, then I use a rubber spatula to spread it out, almost like frosting a cake, making sure
Pie in the same dish you cook the meat mixture in. So, your only other pan will be your potato pan. If you do this, just make sure you start out with a nice big skillet or dutch oven (my dad used a dutch oven a lot for his; rarely did he transfer to a casserole dish).
to seal the edges. Sometimes I make too many potatoes. If you have this "problem" just put them in a dish and refrigerate them for another time. Having too many mashed potatoes is never a problem in my book.
Something else my dad did was to sometimes add about ½ cup of brewed coffee to the meat mixture. It adds a richness in flavor and color, but it's totally optional. I use this trick in my Pot Roast too. If wine isn't your thing, feel free to add beer. A nice dark stout would be great.
Or, leave the alcohol out all together. I might add a splash of vinegar just for a touch of acidity, maybe two tablespoons, and I'd probably choose red wine vinegar or malt vinegar. Anita Parris Soule is a food-obsessed Warrenton native with a passion for delicious food and beautiful words. She is a blogger, food photographer, and recipe developer at www. wildthistlekitchen.com. Check her out on Facebook @wildthistlekitchen.blog and Instagram @wild.thistle.kitchen
Now, if you really want to take it over the top, and if you have an uncontrollable passion for melted, bubbly cheese like I do, add a layer of cheese to the top. My dad did not do this. Place casserole dish on a rimmed sheet tray in case it bubbles over, and place in preheated oven until cheese bubbles and browns a bit. Should take about 20 minutes, but keep an eye on it. Take it out when it looks brown and bubbly. NOTES: This can be just a two pan meal, meaning you'll assemble the Shepherd's
Brookside Neighbors
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Community Content
Historically, covert action has been perhaps the most controversial and least understood function of the CIA. While all presidents since World War II have used covert action to try to influence the political situation in countries of interest to advance US national security interests, they sometimes have done so to rescue failing foreign policies, with exaggerated expectations of the prospects for success, without due attention to long-term consequences, or in ways that contradict the popular will in the countries targeted. Nonetheless, the CIA has had some notable operational successes, and public perceptions of covert action have been skewed by excessive attention to a small number of dubious undertakings. David Robarge received his Ph.D. in American History from Columbia University. After teaching at Columbia and working for banker David Rockefeller and at the Gannett Center for Media Studies at Columbia, he joined the CIA in 1989 and later became a political and leadership analyst on the Middle East. Dr. Robarge moved to the CIA History Staff in 1996 and was appointed Chief Historian of the CIA in 2005. He has published several classified works as well as unclassified monographs on the CIA’s supersonic A-12 reconnaissance aircraft and intelligence in the American Revolution. His biography of Director of Central Intelligence, John McCone, was recently declassified. His articles and book reviews on CIA leaders, counterintelligence, covert action, and technical collection have appeared in Studies in Intelligence, Intelligence and National Security, The Journal of Intelligence History, and The Oxford Handbook of Intelligence and National Security. Dr. Robarge has taught at George Mason University, currently teaches at Georgetown University, and also has written a biography of Chief Justice John Marshall.
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The CIA’s Covert Actions During the Cold War by Jason Hall, Cold War Museum Executive Director
This is the 42nd in a series of presentations sponsored by the Museum featuring eyewitnesses to, and other experts on, significant Cold War events and activities. FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TICKETING, PLEASE CLICK HERE TO ACCESS THE EVENTBRITE PAGE FOR THIS EVENT: https:// www.eventbrite.com/e/secret-missions-the-cias-covert-actionsduring-the-cold-war-tickets-124788159745 Date and Time: Sunday, March 21, 2021, 2:00 PM. Cost: $20, 100% of which is a contribution to the Cold War Museum. Location: ONLINE ONLY. Eventbrite ticket buyers will receive a link to the virtual room on the Zoom platform where this event will take place. We are recording the whole event, including the QandA, for the Museum’s archives.
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Brookside Neighbors'
Recipe Contributor Helps Fauquier FISH Receive a Donation of ... FISH! Megan Oakley, Fauquier FISH Secretary.
In January, Fauquier FISH (For Immediate Sympathetic Help) received a donation of 2500lbs of frozen salmon fillets from Kvarøy Arctic (a sustainable salmon farm located in Norway). Fauquier FISH kept a portion of the donation while distributing the remainder to Rappahannock Food Pantry, Community Touch, Culpeper Food Closet, Seven Loaves Services, and Fauquier Community Food Bank. This contribution was made possible by Fauquier resident Anita Parris Soule – a social media influencer (who has also contributed to the Fauquier Times). Anita develops recipes for Kavrøy Arctic and promotes them on her social media. As part of the company's effort to work with food banks across the U.S. during the pandemic, Kvarøy offered to donate the salmon to a charity of Anita's choosing. Fauquier FISH Executive Director Kathryn Lamonia initiated a collaboration with the Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC) to ensure the donation reached the greatest number of food-insecure people in Fauquier County. "Since I started as the Director of FISH, I've really enjoyed building this partnership with PEC. When we were approached about the salmon donation it seemed like a natural fit to reach out to PEC to partner with them once again. It benefits the entire community and fosters a sense of camaraderie between those seeking to reduce food-insecurity in our local communities," Lamonia said. According to Kvarøy (pronounced “kwa-ray”) Arctic’s website, “What today is called Kvarøy Arctic was founded in 1976 by Alf Olsen, a fish farming pioneer in northern Norway, and his son Geir. In 2008, ownership was passed along to Gjermund and Håvard, Geir’s sons, and Alf-Gøran Knutsen, Geir’s son-in-law. They would continue to develop Kvarøy Arctic as it was envisioned by its founders: offering salmon of very high quality, without compromising either the environment or the welfare of the fish.”
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MARCH 2021
Ask the Librarian: Nonfiction … It Doesn’t Need to Be A Painful Read Aloud
Reading and Writing: How to help your child at home during Virtual Learning By Tammy Hinkle, Librarian Growing up, my sons loved to check out nonfiction books from the school library. They were always about something I found gross … bugs, snakes, spiders. Fortunately for me, my husband did not shy away from those books. The boys knew they could go to their father and he would read and talk for hours about the topics that fascinated them. When they began bringing home these books, I realized that even in my classroom, I avoided reading nonfiction stories as a fun read aloud. The books I chose as our read aloud were fictional stories. When I moved to my position in the library, I saw on a daily basis how many children, boys and girls, checked out nonfiction books on topics they were curious about. So, I have made it a point to read more nonfiction to my classes. I’m still not going to read about snakes and spiders though. There are so many nonfiction books that are wonderful as a read aloud. Here are just a few that my students have loved. “Starstruck: The Cosmic Journey of Neil DeGrasse Tyson” by Kathleen Krull and Paul Brewer. This biography about astrophysicist Neil DeGrasse Tyson engages the reader from the first page. The authors did a wonderful job capturing Neil’s enthusiasm for learning and his unending quest to pursue his dream of becoming a scientist even when the odds were stacked against him. Many students will see themselves in these pages. Neil talked too much in class, laughed too loud, danced, wrestled, and read everything about space he could. For you parents, if you like space, follow Neil on Twitter. I enjoy his humor and knowledge. Another biography my students enjoyed was “John Deere, That’s Who” by Tracy Nelson Maurer. I know what you’re thinking: Is this the tractor company? It is one and the same. This biography tells the story of how John began his company more than 200 years ago. The story starts with John’s failed attempts as a blacksmith in Vermont. He had to leave his family behind and head west to start over. When he was at his lowest, he recognized a need the farmers in the west had and worked to find a solution. Through his perseverance he succeeded, and his company continues on until modern times. When I first selected this book, I thought that there was no way my students were going to engage with this book, but I was willing to give it a try. I am happy to say that
I was wrong. They asked so many good questions and had insights that I didn’t see coming. The more we talked, the more they wanted to know. The next story that my students really enjoyed was “The BooBoos That Changed the World: A True Story about and Accidental Invention (Really!)” by Barry Wittenstein. This is the story of the inventor of Band-Aids. One hundred years ago, Earle Dickenson invented the Band-Aid to help his accident-prone wife. My students loved that fact that something they use ALL THE TIME almost didn’t make it. The story tell how they couldn’t even give the first Band-Aid’s away, but through several failed attempts, Earle figured out how to make the Band-Aid a staple in homes all over the world. Another favorite of my students was “Whoosh: Lonnie Johnson’s Super Soaking Stream of Inventions” by Chris Barton. This is the story of the inventor of the Super Soaker Water Gun, Lonnie Johnson. The story starts off when Lonnie was young and curious about how things worked. He took everything apart and may have caused a small fire in the kitchen. His mom promptly moved him to an outside work area but did not discourage him from his exploration. Lonnie goes on to invent many toys without any success as a businessman. He does not give up though. Eventually, it is his Super Soaker that is his breakthrough invention. The kids loved learning about Lonnie, all the challenges he faced, and how he eventually succeeded at doing what he loves to do, invent toys. My students loved “Curiosity: The Story of the Mars Rover” by Markus Motum. This story is told from the point of view of Curiosity. My younger students loved that Curiosity was telling his own story. My older students loved all the facts that the author included. The best part was seeing so many kids go right back to the space section of the library and checking more books out on this topic Another book about space my students really enjoyed was “Go for The Moon: A Rocket, a Boy, and The First Moon Landing” by Chris Gall. This book tells two stories at the same time. The first is the events leading up to and including the first moon landing. There is plenty of details and descriptions to keep any space enthusiastic engaged. The second story is of a little boy who is watching the events unfold during this time period. It shows how excited people where to watch this historic event happen. The last two books are “Hawk Rising” and “Coyote Moon” by Maria Gianferrari. These books look at animals you might not expect to find in your neighborhood. Maria does an excellent job of telling the story of how coyotes and hawks live right alongside humans. The illustrations done by Brian Floca and Bagram Ibatoulline are amazing. I hope a few of these books your child will find interesting and lead to more reading!
Happy Reading!
Follow me on Twitter: Buckland Mills Elementary School @hinkle_tammy
Dr. Shannon Moore and Associates 540-347-0555 www.warrentoneyes.com 528 Waterloo Road, Warrenton
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Calendar of Events
March 2021 Calendar PLEASE CONFIRM EVENTS BEFORE ATTENDING.
MARCH 2 – 23 Adult Early Risers Boot Camp Who needs coffee for a wake-up call when you have burpees to do? This early morning boot camp workout is the only wake-up call you’ll ever need. Roll out of bed and start your day with a bit of sweat and a fantastic jolt to your metabolism. Please bring water and a small towel. All skill levels are welcome! Ages: 18/up Instructor: Rebekah Regeness Location: Auditorium/Gymnasium, Marshall Community Center, 4133-A, Rectortown Rd, Marshall Time: 7:00am-8:00am Cost: $45.00 www.fauquiercounty.gov/Spring Good Times MARCH 5-14 Virtual Lucky Leprechaun 5K Run like you've got the luck of the Irish on your side! Grab your run buddies for the festive Lucky Leprechaun virtual 5k. Time: Any time that you want! Cost: $40 for the 5K, $30 for ages 14 and under Location: Anywhere! www.racethread.com MARCH 6 Gray Ghost’s Annual Barrel Tasting Taste developing wines directly from the barrel in this fun and educational event. This is the only opportunity to reserve futures of the intense 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon. Admission includes barrel tasting, current release wine tasting, and logo glass. Time: 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
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Cost: $25 per person Reservations recommended for timed entry: 540-937-4869 Location: Gray Ghost Winery 14706 Lee Highway, Amissville www.facebook.com/ events/252350503119633 MARCH 6 Astronomy Viewing Session Get a great view of the constellations, planets, and stars at viewing sessions with the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club. No formal program will be presented; however, members of the club will be happy to answer your questions about astronomy. Bring your own telescope or observe through one provided. Ages 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Advance registration is required for this free event due to CDC and VDH COVID regulations. Time: 7:00 – 11:00 p.m. Ages: All Ages Location: C.M. Crockett Park, Upper Field, 10066 Rogues Road, Midland www.facebook.com/ events/266879964874405 MARCH 8 An Introduction to Getting Your Hands Dirty The Fauquier Education Farm is now accepting registration for our six-week course titled, An Introduction to Getting Your Hands Dirty. This course is intended to give you a basic level understanding of the tools and concepts needed to grow crops in the field. The course will be taught on Zoom, with two in-person Saturday labs at the Fauquier Education Farm. This is
a six-week course that meets on Thursday evenings and begins on March 18th. for more information, please contact fauquieredfarm@ gmail.com Time: 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Cost: $100/person Location: Fauquier Education Farm, 8428 Meetze Road, Warrenton www.facebook.com/ events/467720064637086 MARCH 13 Adult Plant-Based Cooking Sushi In today’s busy world we have lost touch with cooking excellent, satisfying meals that taste spectacular while still promoting good health. In this class, learn how to make plant-based sushi using cucumbers, red peppers, and avocados. This class will make plant-based cooking easy, fun, and delicious! Instructor: Darlene Rochford Time: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Cost: $42.00 Ages: 18 older Location: Marshall Community Center, Kitchen/Café, Marshall Community Center, 4133-A, Rectortown Rd, Marshall www.fauquiercounty.gov/ Spring Good Times MARCH 14 Saint Patrick’s Day At The Tasting Bar Time: 7:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Come look for the pot of gold with us on a treasure hunt! Don’t forget to wear your green! Location: Little Washington Winery, 72 Christmas Tree Lane, Washington www.littlewashingtonwinery.com MARCH 18 – 25 Adult Creating Pysanky Eggs Learn the art of creating Pysanky Eggs. Pysanky is an ancient and beautiful form of folk art from Ukraine. Eggs are decorated with images and designs using beeswax and dyes,
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resulting in an artful keepsake typically given to friends or family. Create your own beautiful keepsake at this workshop.Please bring several raw eggs to the class. Center Instructor: Sabrina Dohm Ages: 18 and older Cost: $45.00 Location: Warrenton Community Center Arts and Crafts Room, 430 E Shirley Ave, Warrenton Time: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. www.fauquiercounty.gov/ Spring Good Times MARCH 20 The Civil War in the Heart of America A Virtual lecture with distinguished Civil War scholar Dr. Edward Ayres on the period between 1859 and 1861 in Virginia. Time: 7:00 p.m. Cost: Donations welcome Location: Zoom www.facebook.com/events/the-fauquier-history-museum-at-the-old-jail MARCH 27 Bird Walk Novice and experienced birders will enjoy this guided 1-2 mile hike to look for the many species of birds that can be found on the field station. We will explore successional fields, meadows, lake edges, and forest. Cost: Free 8:00 -10:00am Ages: 12 and older, children accompanied by adult Location: The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, Virginia, 20187 www.facebook.com/ events/784941702380132
Clifton Community Woman’s Club Virtual C.A.R.E.S. Fundraiser Open to All Kay Gilbert and Karen Paris The Clifton Community Woman’s Club, a locally well-known 501(c)3 organization, is holding its fundraiser virtually this year to benefit their Charitable Trust. Each year they give approximately $20,000 to scholarships, food banks, veterans, women and children in need, and others. Submissions are open until March 31st to all age groups; children’s participation is welcome. Winners in each category will be recognized on ZOOM on April 17th, with first-place winners in each category receiving $100 and second place winners receiving $50. Children’s firstplace winners will receive a certificate of achievement. All will receive certificates of participation in this competition fundraiser. For more information, watch our video at the competition website http://cliftoncwc.org/cares C.A.R.E.S. is an acronym for Creative, Arts, Recording, Education, and Service. Participants will enter a photo or three-minute video of their project with an entrance fee of $25. The five categories include: CREATIVE - Crafts, Fiber, Paper, Wood ARTS - Painting, Sculpture, Poetry, Creative Writing, Photography. RECORDING - Video of Music, Dance, Stories, Dramatic Reading, Acting. EDUCATION - Video or PDF of any type of Class, teaching, or instructional SERVICE - Photos of person with materials being created and/or donated as a volunteer. MARCH 27 All Ages Dog Sledding 101 Join expert dog-sledder, Ron Gagne, at C.M. Crockett Park, who will demonstrate all aspects of dog sledding! His knowledge of dogs, sled arrangement, & the history of dog sledding will fascinate you. Please, no pets. Ages 17 & under must be accompanied by an adult. Time: 10:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. Cost: Free Location: C.M. Crockett Park, Upper Field, 10066 Rogues Road, Midland
www.fauquiercounty.gov/Spring Good Times Future MAY 17TH Boys and Girls Clubs of Fauquier Charity Golf Outing Evergreen Country Club, Haymarket, Virginia Save the Date! -- Look for more details in the coming weeks. Please reach out to Deanna Hammer with any questions at Deanna@ bgcfauquier.org
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Charity Spotlight
Pickleball Farm Opens Spring Break Day Camp By Laine Hall Pickleball Farm was launched in June 2020 to introduce youth to the sport of Pickleball, but also to give them an opportunity to immerse themselves in nature and a farm environment. Founder, Jay Hall, is a professional Pickleball Player and former Paramedic Fireman with the City of Manassas.
can continue to offer economical paddles to those who are interested. Motivational speaking with camp founder and professional pickleball player, Jay (Gizmo.) Meet and feed the farm animals. The farm is home to goats, turkeys, a miniature donkey, pigs, and chickens who can’t wait to meet you!
The farm will offer Spring Break Day Camps from March 15 – 19 and again from March 29 – April 2 with both morning (9am-12pm) and afternoon slots (1pm-4pm) for up to 4/5 kids per session. Summer camp date are TBD but will follow the same schedule as the Spring Break camps as of now. Camp is recommended for ages 5 and up to really enjoy the experience. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. There is no additional cost for the adult. Registration is $50 per child per day, with discounts for multiple days, and multiple children. Space is limited to 4 children per camp session to abide by COVID restrictions. All activities will be outside and maintain CDC recommended social distancing. We are excited to introduce more children to the sport of pickleball on our 10-acre farm! The day camp includes: Pickleball Instruction / play time. All equipment will be provided. You will be able to purchase a customized Pickleball Farm pickleball paddle if you like for a low cost. Please note all the monies raised from the sale of the Paddles go back into the paddle fund so that we
A garden tour, which may include planting, learning the process of gardening, and will be season dependent. You will take a vegetable to grow at home! An intro to growing mushrooms! Join us in learning about how to grow/cultivate mushrooms! You will take home a mushroom log kit too, so you can grow your own gourmet mushrooms at home! Lastly – you can make your own customized fishing lure! You can make your own custom jig or spinnerbait to land that 8lb bass. Whatever color combination you think of. Weekend tours will be opening soon as well. These will be 90-minute tours that are $50 for a family of 4, additional members are $10 each and kids under 5 are free. The weekend tours will include all of the above, but more tailored to each family and what they are interested in learning about. ll day camps and summer weekend tours will be available soon on Facebook at Pickleball Farm. Follow the farm on Facebook at www. facebook.com/pickleballfarm.
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ARE YOU AN
IDEAL TEAM PLAYER? Have you ever wondered what makes a person easy to work with? I’m convinced that there are three required virtues that make someone an ideal team player. The most important of those values is humility. The ultimate foundation of being a team player is a person being willing and able to put the team’s interests ahead of his or her own. Only a truly humble person can do this effectively. Most people recognize and define humility by contrasting it with arrogance, which, to an extent, is accurate. People who are boastful, proud, egotistical and over-confident are certainly not humble, and they are poison on a team. Whether we’re talking about Little League Baseball, corporate leadership or emergency response, team members with big egos tend to bring down team performance by distracting attention away from the collective goals of the team and demotivating peers who resent their excessive need for attention. But some team members who are not arrogant lack humility, even if others around them don’t see it. Many of these people are beloved for their selflessness, modesty and support for others, but can’t be described as humble because they have an inaccurate, deflated understanding of their own talents and abilities. They hurt their teams by failing to contribute at the level that they could. But that’s not as bad as the people who, like them, discount their abilities, but don’t support and encourage their peers. These may be the most dangerous kind of “non-humble” team players.
By Patrick Lencioni, founder and president, The Table Group
The second virtue that is required of an ideal team player is hunger, the desire to work hard, make a difference and get things done. It’s not hard to understand why being hungry makes someone an asset on a team; a complacent person rarely makes a team great. However, hunger alone is not a good thing for a team, as it can be directed toward the benefits of the individual more than the team. Only when a person’s drive is applied to benefits of the greater good does hunger become a team asset. The third and final virtue of an ideal team player is something I call smarts. It has nothing to do with intelligence, however, but is all about social awareness and interpersonal common sense. Ideal team players, in addition to being humble and hungry, know how to understand their colleagues and work with them effectively. They can read a room and understand non-verbal cues, avoiding unnecessary problems that socially awkward people often create. Now, you may be asking, is an ideal team player perfect? Of course not. Even the best team player is going to have a tough day or week or moment from time to time, but those that work to develop their humility, hunger and people smarts will have a serious advantage on teams and in life. Other Resources: Pat’s Ted Talk on becoming an ideal team player: www.ted.com/talks/patrick_lencioni_are_you_an_ideal_team_player The Ideal Team Player Self-Assessment: www.tablegroup.com/books/ideal-team-player/self-assessment/
Patrick Lencioni was named in Fortune
magazine as one of the “ten new gurus you should know.” His passion for organizations and teams is reflected in his writing, speaking and executive consulting. He is the author of eleven best-selling books.
LAWRENCE J. FINKEL M.D.
FAUQUIER'S MOST EXPERIENCED DERMATOLOGIST
EMILY M. MILLER PA-C 360 Church Street, Warrenton, VA | 540.347.2020 www.finkelderm.net | MedSpa 360: 540.347.SKIN (7546)
Brookside Neighbors
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REAL ESTATE UPDATE SOLD DATE
ADDRESS
PRICE
BEDS
BATH
LOCATION
SQ FT
LOT SIZE SQ FT
Jan 7, 2021
4852 Point Road
$879,000
5
4.5
BROOKSIDE
4,345
10,890
Jan 8, 2021
5324 Forrest Court
$670,000
5
3.5
AUBURN MILL
3,538
133,690
ESTATES Jan15, 2021
6738 Kelly Road
$401,000
3
2
PARRAMORE
2,116
30,000
Jan 29, 2021
6268 Redwinged
$980,000
5
4.5
THE WOODS
6,473
49,615
Blackbird Drive
AT WARRENTON
Jan 29, 2021
8187 Major Watters Court
MILLFIELD
2,627
10,018
$533,086
4
3.5
Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the entire real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.
26
MARCH 2021
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