Neighbors of Lake Manassas - February 2024 by sweetbaypublishing

The King Family1:

Making Lake Manassas Home Cover photo by The Little Photo Shop An exclusive publication serving the residents of Lake Manassas, Virginia Oaks, Morris Farm, Saranac, Glenkirk Estates and surrounding areas.

© Best Version Media PUBLICATION TEAM Publishers: Michael and Debbie Wykowski Content Coordinator: Marianne Weaver Designer: Jody Zipp Contributing Photographer: Melinda Ratcliff, The Little Photo Shop

Dear Residents, Happy Valentine’s Day! How do you celebrate Valentine’s Day? Do you go out for a romantic dinner? Or something simple at home? Is it a family event in your home? Or “galantine’s” day?

Debbie and Michael Wykowski, Publishers

Marianne Weaver Content Coordinator

ADVERTISING Learn more about becoming a sponsor. Contact: Michael and Debbie Wykowski Email: mwykowski@bestversionmedia.com or dwykowski@bestversionmedia.com Phone: 703-203-9130

I’ve usually started Feb. 14 by giving each of my kids a small heartshaped box of chocolate and a small stuffed animal. A few years ago, I thought they had outgrown the tradition … but I was wrong. Both were disappointed to not have their chocolates waiting with breakfast. I guess the tradition will continue through 2024 … although I’ll have to ship one to West Virginia. However you celebrate, I hope you have a great Valentine’s Day!

Marianne Weaver, CONTENT COORDINATOR

Michael and Debbie Wykowski, PUBLISHERS

FEEDBACK/IDEAS/SUBMISSIONS 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: mweaver@bestversionmedia.com. 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, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2024 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

NEIGHBORS OF LAKE MANASSAS

FEBRUARY 2024

Expert CONTRIBUTORS FINANCIAL ADVISOR Todd Holden, Financial Advisor Northwest Financial Advisors 703-828-0738 | rtholden@nwfllc.com rtholden.nwfllc.com At Northwest Financial Advisors, we take a holistic approach to custom financial planning, retirement income, investment portfolio management, estate planning and more. With over 20 years of experience, Todd is poised to help individuals and families — throughout life’s biggest moments — pursue their unique financial goals. Reach out today to schedule your complimentary consultation. Securities are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered broker-dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. Investment advice offered through Northwest Financial Advisors, a registered investment advisor and separate entity from LPL Financial. Northwest Federal Credit Union (NWFCU) is not registered as a broker-dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using Northwest Financial Advisors and may also be employees of NWFCU. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from, and not affiliates of, NWFCU or Northwest Financial Advisors. Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are: Not Insured by NCUA or Any Other Government Agency / Not Credit Union Guaranteed / Not Credit Union Deposits or Obligations / May Lose Value

INSURANCE Jennifer Puffenbarger Puffenbarger Insurance & Financial Services 703-352-0707 | jennifer@pinsfs.com www.pinsfs.com Puffenbarger Insurance & Financial Services is locally owned Insurance company who specializes in Home, Cars, Business, farms, wineries, Life, Financial and much more. The leadership team includes three generations of the Puffenbarger family. Being a family-run business, we’re well aware that each family has its own specific needs when it comes to insurance. Owner Keith Puffenbarger started the business in Gainesville, Virginia in May of 1989, and now has locations in Fairfax, Warrenton, and Culpeper serving clients in the District of Columbia, Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Maryland, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania.

EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS Share your knowledge and stand out from the competition. To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Debbie Wykowski at dwykowski@bestversionmedia.com.

FEBRUARY 2024

NEIGHBORS OF LAKE MANASSAS

ORTHODONTICS Dr. Madueke Ekoh TEEM Orthodontics 703-753-4777 | teemortho.com Dr. Ekoh’s journey started in Nigeria, obtaining his Pre-Bachelors in Dental Surgery before emigrating to the U.S. He received his Doctorate in Dental Surgery and Orthodontist certificate at Howard University. To keep up with the advances in orthodontic care, Dr. Ekoh regularly attends numerous seminars, and is an active member in several professional associations, including the American Association of Orthodontists. He lives in Haymarket with his wife and four children. “My vision is to make advanced, high quality and cutting-edge orthodontic care available and affordable to everyone. I believe that great orthodontic care should not only improve the smile, but help people experience the joy of living better.” REAL ESTATE Ashley Tauzier Berkshire Hathaway Home Services PenFed Realty Cell: 571-469-0901 | Office: 703-396-6000 ashley@mynorthernvarealtor.com Ashley Tauzier is a realtor and 19-year military spouse. Her knowledge of NoVA neighborhoods, builders, schools and community amenities contributes to her value. She prides herself in being attentive and responsive to her client’s needs – striving to make your real estate transaction stress-free, whether you are a first time homebuyer or a seasoned seller. Ashley looks forward to helping you reach your real estate goals! VETERINARY SERVICES Robert S. Dove, DVM Companion Animal Clinic of Gainesville (703) 754-8387 info@cacgainesvilleva.com Companion Animal Clinic’s mission is to provide exceptional veterinary and breeding services while prioritizing the health and safety of every pet. Their doctors have decades of experience providing veterinary care to a variety of animals. They strive to give every client and pet the best experience that northern Virginia and beyond has to offer.

KIDS CORNER

Sponsored by The Goddard School © Best Version Media

GAINESVILLE AND RONALD WILSON REAGAN MIDDLE SCHOOLS

Earn Top Honors Collected by Marianne Weaver Submitted by Prince William County Public Schools Gainesville and Ronald Wilson Reagan Middle Schools recently attended the Virginia Theatre Association’s (VTA) annual Theatre Conference in Richmond, Va. Both schools competed against schools from across the state in the middle school theatre festival. Gainesville Middle School’s drama club production of “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” earned top honors with a platinum rating at the conference. Along with this stellar achievement as a group, two of the cast members, eighth grade students, Rachel Fillmore and Sadie Lamb, were named best actors. “Theatre is so important for students. Not only does it expose students to different stories and perspectives, it helps build creativity, teamwork, and collaboration skills that are necessary for these students to be successful adults,” said Jessica RodriguezSnellings, Gainesville Middle’s drama club director. Reagan Middle School’s theatre troupe was also honored for their performance of “All the Ways the World Will End, but Not You,” as they walked away with a gold rating.

join us this summer!

Eighth grade cast members Alysa Gerhardt and Roya Tasneem received best actor awards for their outstanding individual performances.

Summertime adventures with teachers we love!

At the conference, students had the unique opportunity to visit college booths with theatre programs, attend interactive workshops, watch other schools and groups perform, and even perform themselves. Ysabella Nicastro from Gainesville Middle was thrilled to be able to attend the VTA Conference and perform at the festival. “At VTA you are with your people. They all have so much support for each other, “ she said. “Theatre taught me that I can be myself and have a free spirit. Theatre people are the best people you will ever meet.”

GAINESVILLE (HAYMARKET) 571-222-5576 • GoddardSchool.com

The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Franchisor, LLC. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, LLC is Cognia accredited. License #CDC 1108100. © Goddard Franchisor, LLC 2024

NEIGHBORS OF LAKE MANASSAS

FEBRUARY 2024

KIDS CORNER

PINEY BRANCH

Robotics UPS THEIR GAME By Marianne Weaver In past years, the Piney Branch robotics team participated in the PWCS First Lego League (FLL) Fun Day, where students participate in the robot game, but points aren’t kept and there is no advancement. But this year, the teams transitioned to the competitive format. One team, Potatoes and Carrots, competed at the state tournament in Harrisonburg. They improved their robot game by 70 points and finished 9th out of 57 teams. “I’m so proud and beyond impressed by how all of our teams did this year,” said coach Jennifer S. Roberts. “I was thrilled to see the Potatoes and Carrots advance to the state meet and have a wonderful time in all aspects of the competition – the innovation project, the robot game, and the teamwork.” Building a Program Twenty-four students participated in the robotics program: 12 fourth graders and 12 fifth graders. They were broken into three teams of eight, evenly divided between the two grades. They met twice a week. “Starting this year, and going forward, the fourth graders take the lead on the innovation project and the fifth graders take the lead on the robot game, the robot design and the robot missions,” said Roberts. They compete in the regional competition in November at Osbourn Park High School with an opportunity to move onto the state tournament at James Madison University in December. “Then, the fifth graders retire and the fourth graders get a chance to learn the robot game for the Fun Day in May. These fourth graders will go on to take the lead as fifth graders for the competitive game, and then retire afterward. This is a totally new system for us and we just started it this year.” Roberts explained that the core values are discovery, innovation, inclusion, impact, teamwork and fun. For the innovation project, they have to identify a problem based on the yearly competition theme – this year was “Masterpiece,” based on technology

FEBRUARY 2024

NEIGHBORS OF LAKE MANASSAS

in entertainment and the arts – then design a solution and share the solution with others. “All three teams focused on problems that involved people with disabilities and their access to the arts and entertainment. One team designed a skateboard with VR headset for children with disabilities, the second designed a device that helps children who are missing limbs create art, and the third designed a writing utensil with a color sensor to allow blind children to color the same sheets as their peers.” The teams presented their innovation project, robot design and completed missions at the robot table. “At our qualifier, there were 36 teams, split between division 1 (elementary school) and division 2 (middle school),” she said. “Three or four teams from each division advanced to the state tournament based on a combination of scores from the innovation project, robot design, robot game and demonstration of core values. One of our teams, the Potatoes and Carrots, moved on.” Potatoes and Carrots The Potatoes and Carrots team members were fourth graders Emerson, Marti, Riley and Riya; and fifth graders Jackson, Juan, Talha and Thomas. “They did very well for their first time,” said Roberts. “They added 85 points to their robot game (185 to 270) and ended up ninth out of 57 teams.” She said the team was incredibly positive all season. When faced with difficulties in the robot game, they experimented with new missions and rearranged the order to be more successful. They also learned how to code with the color sensor before the state tournament to up their game. “My favorite thing about robotics was the coding because sometimes we would get super hyped if we got it right,” said Juan. Roberts said assistant coach Roxanne Edwards was instrumental in getting the innovation projects rolling.

IT’S A BOOK VENDING MACHINE! By Tammy Hinkle, Librarian hinkletl@pwcs.edu

The second way a student can earn a token is to complete a reading challenge that their teacher sets for them. This is done on an individual bases, so challenges vary from student to student. These challenges are something the student should be able to complete, but still a little challenging. The challenges also have a time limit, which is usually a two-week window, to be completed. After they have completed their challenge, they bring the form to the library, and I get to give them their token. It is one of the best things I get to do during the day!

In April of last year, the Buckland Mills PTO surprised the students with a book vending machine. It was installed into the library after all the students had left for the day and covered for the big reveal the next morning during our daily announcements, which we Zoomed into every room. The excitement in the building was palpable. As each class came to the library during the following week, I spent time showing the students the machine and explaining how they would be able to earn a token to get a book from the vending machine. It does not accept any cash, only takes these awesome little golden tokens with a little bookworm on it.

This year we have added a third way to earn a token for the vending machine. We are trying to encourage students to come to the library more often and to not just come when their class is scheduled every six days. The top patrons from each grade level, those who check out the most books, each month earn a token to the book vending machine.

The first way we established for students to earn a token for the vending machine was to receive two Golden Paws. Any staff member can give a student a Golden Paw. It is given for great behavior that goes beyond what is expected. When a student earns one of these Paws, one of our administrators calls home to praise how the child earned the special Golden Paw. When they get a second Golden Paw, they earn an additional reward of a token to the vending machine that the administration awards to them.

We have given out about 75 books so far. Donations of new, age-appropriate books are always welcomed.

Happy Reading!

608 Express route originates at the Balls Ford Going to NEW Places! OmniRide’s Commuter Lot (Century Park Drive, off Balls Ford Road) Innovation Center Metrorail Station

Y W PK

EXCHANGE

ER NT CE W

VA N

N TO

FAIRBROOK

AR E

ILT SH IR E

SQ U

TO N

RD LE IL EV CE NT R

BIR CH

T S

HI RD

Connecting bus service: Fairfax Connector

Y PK W N

Learn more here!

ST O

Give it a try for half-fare— just $4.50 one-way!

that has easy access to the I-66 Express Lanes and it serves employment centers in the Dulles Corridor, Herndon, and Reston and provides a connection to Metro’s Silver Line to Dulles Airport.

L CA GI LO EO DR . G EY U.S URV S

RESTON

EN D

N SU

RIV E

Transfer Center

Connections to regional transit AND Dulles Airport!

Booz Allen Hamilton

USGS Eastern Geographic Science Center

(Bus also stops at the numbered timepoints)

Connecting bus service:

Reston Town Center

MicroSoft

5 Reston Town Center North Transit Center

Bus Stop

Balls Ford Commuter Lot

YMCA Reston

HERNDON PKWY

Reston Town Center Metrorail

(Subject to change without notice)

ravels non-stop along I-66

Balls Ford Commuter Lot

OmniRide (Bus Bay D) Connecting bus service: Fairfax Connector

N CH

Innovation Center South

Worldgate Shopping Centre Worldgate Plaza

L VA

S LE

N SU

L DU

ePlus

AWS Herndon

TE GA

Fibertek

FRYING PAN

ROUTE 28

COPPERMINE

JEFFERSON PARK

MERRYBROOK

Cisco Lockheed Martin

Map not to scale

HERNDON

Fannie Mae

NETWORK

SUNSET VALLEY DR

SUNSET VALLEY DR SAYWARD

Innovative Center Station North Pavilion

CARTA WAY

NORTH

Center for Innovative Technology

Commuter Lot Point of Interest

OmniRide.com • 703-730-6664 NEIGHBORS OF LAKE MANASSAS

FEBRUARY 2024

RESIDENT FEATURE

The King Family1:

Making Lake Manassas Home By Marianne Weaver | Photos by The Little Photo Shop Celebrating 25 years of marriage last spring is quite impressive knowing they met as rivals from competing universities. Jason attended the University of Utah. Jocelyn attended Brigham Young University. “His roommates were from my hometown and a large group went out together to a Salt Lake City club for Halloween,” said Jocelyn. “We were both party poopers who didn’t dress up, but we won the night anyway!” Less than a week later, they had their first date: dinner and a hypnotist. “By the end of the month, he managed to get a Thanksgiving invite from his roommate to my hometown, which was 12 hours away in California,” she said. “He spent his whole visit with me and meeting my family.” They got engaged July 4, while visiting Jason’s hometown of Phoenix. “We were in a boat on Lake Pleasant with the fireworks lighting up the sky when he asked me to marry him,” said Jocelyn. “I might have been eating fried chicken at the ideal moment for him to get down on one knee – the grease made it easy for him to slide the ring on my finger.” They married in May 1998 in her hometown of Danville, Calif.,

FEBRUARY 2024

NEIGHBORS OF LAKE MANASSAS

“After our send off, Jason took off from the country club so fast everyone heard the tires squeal,” she said. “We drove to San Francisco for the first night before leaving on our honeymoon and Jason threw his boutonniere over the Bay Bridge.”

LIFE IN LAKE MANASSAS Jocelyn graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in elementary education. She is the co-owner of Nothing Bundt Cakes in Gainesville with her business partner Brianne Hout. “We opened almost three years ago and love bringing cake and joy to our community. We are currently in the process of opening our second location in Manassas,” she said. “We have a team of around 25 that really embody the core values of our brand: A Servant’s Heart, Spirit of a Champion and Genuine Connections.” Jason graduated from the University of Utah with a finance degree and then earned an MBA from W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University. He has worked for Shea Homes for 19 years. “We moved from California for Jason’s job,” said Jocelyn. “Jason works for Shea Homes in their Active Lifestyle Division building 55+ master-planned communities. He currently is building Trilogy at Lake Frederick, a 1,200-home project near Winchester and will be starting a second project this fall in Culpeper, Three Oaks a Trilogy boutique community.” The Kings have four children – Elli 23, Adeline 21, Amelia 17, Max 13 – and have lived in Lake Manassas for 10 years.

“We wanted to be close enough to D.C. and have really good schools, which we found in Gainesville,” said Jocelyn. “Our realtor set up our first meeting in the parking lot of Wegmans. We had never seen a Wegmans, and it honestly was a draw to living here!” They rented a house in Lake Manassas before deciding to make the community their forever home. “I’ve spent my career helping to build award-winning master-planned communities with golf and amenities and was immediately drawn to the mix of architecture, wide streets, open space, and amenities,” said Jason. “The best communities get better with age and we have seen that over the past 10 years living in Lake Manassas. Lake Manassas is still one of the best kept secrets in the area, and one of the top communities in Northern Virginia.”

Renting in the community made it very clear to the Kings that they wanted to buy and set down roots in Lake Manassas. “For months, we would look at every home that came on the market,” said Jason. “Jim and Dawn Gaskill were instrumental in helping us explore every option and in a fortunate, yet stressful chain of events, the Gaskills helped us purchase our rental home.” Jason said they love that the kids can ride their bikes to swim team practices and walk to Wegman’s or Tropical Smoothie.

Professional Service • Personal Attention Puffenbarger Insurance & Financial Services Inc, delivers expert insurance and financial solutions for our clients. Our flexible, friendly approach makes it easy for families and businesses to protect themselves against loss and help them gain financial independence.

Our Leadership Team

PPI INNSSFFSS. .CCOOM M 540.347.7322 WARRENTON

540.825.4234 CULPEPER

703.352.0707 FAIRFAX

NEIGHBORS OF LAKE MANASSAS

FEBRUARY 2024

© Best Version Media “And, of course, our view of serene Lake Manassas is appreciated daily, even after 10 years,” he said. “Our favorite pastime is eating dinner on our back deck. We even bought an outside heater to extend our porch season.” The “kids” aren’t really kids any more. Elli graduated from BYU university last year and works as a cyber security pen tester at RSM, an accounting and consulting company. Adeline is finishing her last semester at James Madison University as a hospitality major. Amelia, a senior at Gainesville High School, is a caption of the GHS dance team and a member of the National Honor Society. She works for Nothing Bundt Cakes and teaches at Degrasse Dance Studio in Haymarket. Max, a seventh grader at Ronald Reagan Middle School, has been part of the Lake Manassas Blue Dolphins Swim Team since he was able to make it across the pool. He was Dolphin of the year in 2022. He loves music: He plays piano and cello and is teaching himself guitar. “Max loves chess. He learned to play at his before-school club at Buckland Mills when he was 5 years old,” said Jocelyn. “Jason tries to improve his own game by playing online and hopes to one day beat Max.”

FAMILY FUN The Kings are explorers: museums, restaurants, live shows, nearby cities and towns. “We like to play games, karaoke, watch movies, and did I say eat out??” said Jocelyn. “Exploring includes hikes. One of our favorites is Seven Pools, along Thompson Hollow Trail. Another annual adventure is floating the river at Watermelon Park in Berryville.” They love to travel. “With a larger family, that often means road trips,” said Jocelyn. “There has been so much to explore since moving to this side of the country. We have been up and down and west visiting Canada, Maine, Boston, NYC, Chicago, Cleveland, Smoky Mountains, Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head, Florida and more!” Elli and Jason visited the Dominican Republic to build a school and help teach the local children English. Elli repeated a similar experience the following summer, earning her own funds to

FEBRUARY 2024

NEIGHBORS OF LAKE MANASSAS

go to Thailand. Amelia visited Africa last summer to build a health center. She is currently earning her way to go to Thailand this summer. At home in Gainesville, Max is taking tennis lessons from the neighborhood pro, Grete Bravo. Max and Jocelyn love to hit their community courts to play pickleball. “I enjoy many walks through our neighborhood with its majestic lake views or along the meandering trails. One of our favorite spots is the park benches overlooking the lake on Spyglass Loop,” she said. “We love our neighbors and our canine friends that walk by and stop to say hello and have taken the time to make friends with our dog Ginger, who can be a bit overprotective of our front yard.” Recently, the family has added a new tradition: Sunday brunch. Their current favorite is Brass Cannon. That all makes sense since Joceyln shared their family motto: This Family Eats Crust!

EVENTSCALENDAR Saturday, Feb. 10

Sunday, March 3

MARDI GRAS GALA

BOOKS ON TAP! MONTHLY BOOK CLUB

@ Sweeney Barn, 9310 Discovery Blvd., Manassas A semi-formal, Mardi-Gras themed evening of dinner, dancing, silent/live auction and treasure chest contest. Time: 5:30 p.m. • Cost: $150 early bird gala@jpthegreat.org

@ Ornery Beer Taproom, 8120 Flannery Court, Manassas Like Books? Like Beer? Books and beer pair perfectly in this monthly book club hosted by Ornery Beer Company and Prince William Public Libraries. To get a book: Download a copy from hoopladigital.com, check out a copy from your local library, provide your own copy, or attend book club. Time: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. • Cost: Free jraghunathan@pwcgov.org

Saturday and Sunday, Feb 10 and 11

FXBG KIDFEST @ Fredericksburg Convention Center, 2371 Carl D Silver Parkway, Fredericksburg Climb, bounce and play the day away. Bounce houses, laser tag, fun activities, fire trucks, summer camp registrations, and more. Time: Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. • Cost: $8 general admission, $7 seniors, $5 ages 4 – 12, free for children under 3 fredericksburgconventioncenter.com Friday, Feb. 16

KAREN’S LINE DANCING AT THE WINERY AT BULL RUN @ The Winery at Bull Run, 15950 Lee Hwy., Centreville Free line dancing lessons. Learn line dances from country, hip hop and pop. Ages 21 and up. Time: 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. wineryatbullrun.com Saturday, Feb. 17

SIXTH ANNUAL VALENTINES GALA AT MCCALL GALLERY @ McCall Gallery, 9409 Battle Street, Manassas Celebrate Valentine’s Day at McCall Studio Gallery. Valentine’s art photography/ photo illustrations. Show of originals by local artist, R. Drake. VA Drone Landscapes. Guest poetry readings. Live music. Guest speaker/artist, R. Drake. Walk the red carpet wearing your favorite Valentine fashion for a chance to win a prize. Complimentary food, champagne, with other diverse fine arts exhibits, and Valentine cheer. Time: 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. • Cost: $55 dmvisualstudio.com Saturday, March 2

PRE RAMADAN EXPO @ 7209 Centreville Road, Manassas Family event featuring shopping, food, live music, DJ. Free parking. Time: 4 p.m. – 11 p.m. • Cost: Free (703)-789-4846 (571)-316-3357

Saturday, March 9

GREATER MANASSAS ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE @ Manassas The parade route begins at the intersection of Prescott Avenue and Quarry Road, then follows Prescott Ave. around the corner onto Center Street and continues down Center Street to West Street. The parade crosses in front of the reviewing stand at West and Center Streets. Parade dispersal begins at the entrance to the Harris Pavilion. Green is the perfect color to wear for this family-oriented event that honors Irish history in America and highlights our community. Time: 11 a.m. – noon • Cost: Free stpatparade.net Friday, Saturday and Sunday, March 15, 16, 17 Saturday, Feb. 10

Saturday, March 23

THE BLUE RIDGE BANDITS LIVE AT TROUVILLE BREWING COMPANY @ Trouville Brewing Company, 6701 Madison Street, Haymarket The Blue Ridge Bandits are two sisters from the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia. The Americana Folk-Grass singers have seven years of performing live shows, songwriting and a lifetime of sisterhood under their belts. Together, they create visual and meaningful music with sweeping-sister harmonies and powerful lyrics. Time: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. • Cost: Free trouvaillebrewingco.com

Save the date: Saturday, April 27

GAINESVILLE HIGH SCHOOL 5K Additional information coming soon.

FOUR STAR COMBO AT GUISEPPE’S @ Giuseppe’s Ristorante Italiano, 15120 Washington Street, Haymarket First time out for The Combo at this Italian Restaurant and live music venue. Time: 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. • Cost: Free giuseppesri.com Sunday, March 17

THE PUNCH DRUNK LOVER: ST. PATRICK’S EDITION @ 2 Silos, 9925 Discovery Blvd., Manassas “The Punch Drunk Lover” is the stage name of the solo project of local singer, musician, and actor Kelly Snow, bringing a singer/songwriter feel to some of vour favorite hits. Kelly attended the University of Virginia, where he was music director of the popular a cappella group “The Hullabahoos.” He has more than 25 years of performing experience, including appearances on NBC’s “The Office” and in the 2012 film “Pitch Perfect.” Time: Noon – 3:30 p.m. • Cost: Free 2silosbrewing.com NEIGHBORS OF LAKE MANASSAS

FEBRUARY 2024

The History of

ST. VALENTINE Who was Saint Valentine and how did he come to inspire Valentine’s Day? By Fr. William Saunders In the early martyrologies, three different St. Valentines are mentioned, all sharing Feb. 14 for a feast day. Unfortunately, the historical record is sparse. The first St. Valentine was a priest and physician in Rome. He along with St. Marius and his family comforted the martyrs during the persecution of Emperor Claudius II, the Goth. Eventually, St. Valentine was also arrested, condemned to death for his faith, beaten with clubs, and finally beheaded on Feb. 14, AD 270. He was buried on the Flaminian Way. Later, Pope Julius I (333-356) built a basilica at the site which preserved St. Valentine’s tomb. Archeological digs in the 1500s and 1800s have found evidence of the tomb of St. Valentine. However, in the thirteenth century, his relics were transferred to the Church of Saint Praxedes near the Basilica of St. Mary Major, where they remain today. Also, a small church was built near the Flaminian Gate of Rome which is now known as the Porta del Popolo but was called in the 12th century “the Gate of St. Valentine,” as noted by the early British historian William Somerset (also known as William of Malmesbury, d. 1143), who ranks after St. Bede in authority. The second St. Valentine was the Bishop of Interamna (now Terni, located about 60 miles from Rome). Under the orders of Prefect Placidus, he too was arrested, scourged, and decapitated, again suffering persecution during the time of Emperor Claudius II.

FEBRUARY 2024

NEIGHBORS OF LAKE MANASSAS

© Best Version Media The third St. Valentine suffered martyrdom in Africa with several companions. However, nothing further is known about this saint. In all, these men, each named St. Valentine, showed heroic love for the Lord and His Church. The popular customs of showing love and affection on St. Valentine’s Day is almost a coincidence with the feast day of the saint: During the Medieval Age, a common belief in England and France was that birds began to pair on Feb.14, “half-way through the second month of the year.” Chaucer wrote in his “Parliament of Foules” (in Old English): “For this was on Seynt Valentyne’s day, When every foul cometh ther to choose his mate.” For this reason, the day was dedicated to “lovers” and prompted the sending of letters, gifts, or other signs of affection. Another literary example of St. Valentine’s Day remembrances is found in Dame Elizabeth Brews “Paston Letters” (1477), where she writes to the suitor, John Paston, of her daughter, Margery: “And, cousin mine, upon Monday is St. Valentine’s day and every bird chooseth himself a mate, and if it like you to come on Thursday night, and make provision that you may abide till then, I trust to God that ye shall speak to my husband and I shall pray that we may bring the matter to a conclusion.” In turn, Margery wrote to John: “Unto my right well beloved Valentine John Paston, Squyer, be this bill delivered. Right reverend and worshipful and my right well beloved Valentine, I recommend me unto you, full heartily desiring to hear of your welfare, which I beseech Almighty God long for to preserve until His pleasure and your heart’s desire.” While speaking of the amorous flavor of Valentine’s Day, no mention is made of the saint. While it seems that the exchange of “valentines” is more the result of secular custom rather than the memory of St. Valentine, and that the celebration has been further paganized with cupids and the like, there is a Christian message that should be remembered. The love of our Lord, depicted beautifully in the image of His most Sacred Heart, is a sacrificial, self-less, and unconditional love. Such is the love that each Christian is called to express in his own life, for God and neighbor. Clearly, St. Valentine no matter which one showed such a love, bearing witness to the faith in his dedication as a priest and in the offering of his own life in martyrdom. On this Valentine’s day, looking to the example of this great saint, each person should offer again his love to the Lord, for only by doing so can he properly love those who are entrusted to his care and any other neighbor. Each person should again pledge his love to those loved ones, praying for their intentions, promising fidelity to them, and thanking them for their love in return. Never forget Jesus said, “This is my commandment: love one another as I have loved you. There is no greater love than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (Jn 15:12-13). St. Valentine fulfilled this command, and may we do the same. Acknowledgement: Saunders, Rev. William. “History of Saint Valentine.” Arlington Catholic Herald. This article is reprinted with permission from Arlington Catholic Herald. The Author: Father William Saunders is pastor of St. Agnes Church in Arlington, Virginia. He is episcopal vicar for faith formation of the Arlington diocese. The above article is a “Straight Answers” column he wrote for the Arlington Catholic Herald. Copyright © 2003 Arlington Catholic Herald

Hello Readers!

More than just your financial neighbor,

OUR WORLD

REVOLVES

AROUND YOU. Our 昀椀nancial world is a complex one to navigate alone and to 昀椀nd peace of mind along the way. New investment products, global investing opportunities, retirement plans, Social Security strategies, tax law changes, estate planning, and a whole host of other considerations to manage. All of these things underscore the value of seeking holistic and professional 昀椀nancial advice. Contact me today to get started on a 昀椀nancial plan just for you.

TODD HOLDEN FINANCIAL ADVISOR

703.828.0738 | rtholden.nwfllc.com

LPL Financial’s No. 1 credit union investment program in the nation1 Based on total investment revenue among all LPL Financial credit union programs as of June 30, 2023.

Tell us why you love this magazine! BestVersionMedia.com/feedback

Securities offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products offered through LPL or its licensed af昀椀liates. Investment advice offered through Northwest Financial Advisors, a registered investment advisor and separate entity from LPL Financial. Northwest Federal Credit Union (NWFCU) is not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using Northwest Financial Advisors, and may also be employees of NWFCU. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its af昀椀liates, which are separate entities from, and not af昀椀liates of, NWFCU or Northwest Financial Advisors. Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its af昀椀liates are: NOT INSURED BY NCUA OR ANY OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCY / NOT CREDIT UNION GUARANTEED / NOT CREDIT UNION DEPOSITS OR OBLIGATIONS / MAY LOSE VALUE

NEIGHBORS OF LAKE MANASSAS

FEBRUARY 2024

Building a

Better Future By Marianne Weaver Habitat for Humanity Prince William County is preparing to celebrate its 30-year anniversary of serving members in the community. Habitat for Humanity Prince William provides homeownership opportunities for low-income families through a homeownership program. The organization also provides critical home repairs to low-income families, disabled seniors and disabled veterans. The organization was founded in 1976 by Millard and Linda Fuller in Americus, Ga. Habitat for Humanity Prince William County was founded in August 1994. “Our most recent success story is helping a disabled veteran stay in his home by providing a much-needed critical home repair to his roof,” said Markus Crewe, president/CEO. “This repair not only helped our veteran stay in his home, it addressed a need that he could not afford on his own. Now he can age in place comfortably in knowing his roof was taken care of thanks to Habitat!” Habitat for Humanity also provides access to gently used affordable furniture, appliances, and housewares at the Manassas ReStore.

Care for

the entire family.

Schedule

T Now a convenient location, TDr. Ghuman and Dr. Wong aging in adults agingcare adults offer for the entire family. They see all ages from birth to T aging adults and even offer same day availability. From annual exams to chronic disease management, and more, their goal is to help you and your family stay healthy.

Appointments may be made by calling

703.743.7370

Jenna Wong, DO Family Medicine

Kearn Ghuman, DO Family Medicine

7915 Lake Manassas Drive | Suite 101 | Gainesville, VA 20155

FEBRUARY 2024

NEIGHBORS OF LAKE MANASSAS

“We work with volunteers at our Manassas ReStore and at home repairs throughout the community. The more the better,” said Crewe. “We believe many hands make light work, and we are always seeking out collaborations with local organizations. Our latest collaboration was with Keep Prince William Beautiful where we worked to rehab three Boys and Girls Clubs in the community.” Anyone interested in volunteering with Habitat for Humanity can follow on social media to see the projects underway. “Take time out to volunteer at one of our home repairs or home rehabs in the community, and/or volunteer at the Manassas ReStore,” said Crewe. “Donations of gently used furniture, appliances and housewares are always needed to help fund our programs, and monetary donations are always needed to help keep the lights on in our facilities.” For more information, visit habitatpwc.org.

We cater to your active and independent lifestyle. Call to schedule your very own personal tour and lunch, and experience our portfolio of Signature Programs and amenities designed just for you!

703.468.2750

™

7820 BALTUSROL BLVD, GAINESVILLE, VA 20155 • 703.468.2750 • WWW.RUI.NET/THE-WELLINGTON A RETIREMENT UNLIMITED, INC. COMMUNITY • FRALIN & WALDRON FAMILY-OWNED AND OPERATED IN VIRGINIA AND FLORIDA FOR FORTY YEARS

NEIGHBORS OF LAKE MANASSAS

FEBRUARY 2024