Neighbors of Lake Manassas - May 2020 by sweetbaypublishing

May 2020

An exclusive publication serving residents of Lake Manassas, Virginia Oaks, Morris Farms, Saranac, Glenkirk Estates and surrounding areas.

Team Hinkle: All in for Robotics Also Inside • SPECIAL GRADUATION EDITION: Congratulations Class of 2020 • Meg Hawkins: Making Everything Good • Local Residents Make Face Masks

Cover photo by The Little Photo Shop

Neighbors of Lake Manassas

May 2020

Neighbors of Lake Manassas

Publication Team Publisher................Michael & Debbie Wykowski Content Coordinator..............Marianne Weaver Designer..............................................Jody Zipp Contributing Photographer......Melinda Ratcliff The Little Photo Shop

Dear Residents,

Edith Wharton, an American novelist, penned this beautiful quote in 1902 and it has never been more true than now: “There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that receives it.” We, the team at Neighbors of Lake Manassas, believe that our readers and sponsors are both the candle and the mirror. So many of you volunteer with organizations that are dear to your heart, others work in industries that are vital to the health of our community, and still others are conscious to extend grace to others during good times as well as uncertain ones.

Debbie and Michael Wykowski, Publishers

Marianne Weaver Content Coordinator

Advertising Contact: Michael and Debbie Wykowski Email: mwykowski@bestversionmedia.com or dwykowski@bestversionmedia.com Phone: 703-203-9130 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. HOA Submission Information 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.

Your ability to share with others, whether it is your time, your resources, or even your smile is a beautiful testament to what an outstanding community this is. Thank you for being the heroes that you are. In this issue we celebrate the high school class of 2020. Our hearts broke when we heard their proms were cancelled and graduation ceremonies postponed. So, here we present our seniors. Congratulations to the class of 2020, you have handled this evolving situation with dignity and grace. Your futures are bright! And, when this is over—and it will be—we hope you celebrate your accomplishments and share those photos with us. We would be honored to celebrate along with you. Please send us some photos of your recent activities. Maybe you finished a 1,000-piece puzzle that had been sitting on the shelf, or you hosted a virtual game of Monopoly with friends, or you volunteered making lunches for school-aged children, or even fostered a shelter dog. We love receiving your input here at Neighbors and we look forward to seeing your awesome photos in the near future Blessings for a peaceful May.

Debbie and Michael Wykowski,

Publishers

Marianne Weaver, Content Coordinator

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. © 2020 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

Neighbors of Lake Manassas

May 2020

Expert Contributors Dental Gainesville Dental Associates 571-290-2647 Gainesvilledentalassociates.com The award-winning, highly experienced doctors at Gainesville Dental Associates put YOU, the patient, first in all they do. From the most advanced technology to the latest procedures, their mission is to provide unsurpassed care in a pleasant comfortable environment.

Design Build – Kitchen and Bath Remodels and New Homes Golden Rule Builders, Inc. Joel Barkman 540-788-3539 www.GoldenRuleBuilders.com www.facebook.com/GoldenRuleBuilders 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.

Early Childhood Education Primrose School of Haymarket Georgia P Wiley 703-754-2800 Team@PrimroseHaymarket.com www.PrimroseHaymarket.com Georgia, owner of the Primrose School of Haymarket, also owns and operates the Primrose School at Ironbridge Corner. Because of the Wiley’s struggle to find quality care for their own three children, Georgia knew exactly what she was looking for when she opened a child care center - a school like Primrose. Georgia says, “As the owner, ... I recognize the importance of creating a safe, nurturing and healthy environment for the children. I also seek to create a work environment that allows our educators to excel in their passion for teaching young children, and the Primrose curriculum offers just that opportunity.”

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Neighbors of Lake Manassas

Estate Planning Hometown Estate Planning Richard Phillips 571-208-0425 www.hometownestateplanning.com Richard Phillips is an experienced attorney who has practiced in bankruptcy and commercial litigation since 2000. Today, he specializes in estate planning law and assisting families discover the right approach to their inheritance and incapacity planning needs. “I started my own practice because of a desire to have the law degree be a positive impact in people’s lives,” he said. “What I do now is help families efficiently pass their wealth onto their kids and grandkids.”

Family Entertainment & Recreation THRILL ZONE - Interactive Fun Dr. K. Nadeem Ahmed 703-901-0194 ThrillZoneFun.com Dr. Ahmed is a physician by practice and is also the owner of THRILL ZONE - Interactive Fun in Chantilly. He is a father to three children and felt the need for an integrated family fun facility in the area – with lasertag, escape rooms, and arcade games, in addition to onsite restaurant with party rooms. Given the current focus of home-based video games that limit social interaction for children, he wanted to create a fun, safe environment where the kids could still enjoy playing games but also interact with one another on a personal level.

Family Medicine Lifetime Family Medicine 703-754-0425 www.facebook.com/LifetimeFamilyMedicine Lifetime Family Medicine, a proud member of the Privia Medical Group, is based in Gainesville. They have three doctors, two physician assistants, and one nurse practitioner, including Dr. Theresa Shupe, voted a 2017 Top Doctor by Washingtonian Magazine. Comments from their patients include “definitely the best doctors’ office I have been to,” “always so friendly and helpful,” and “They make the experience as quick and easy as possible.”

Become an expert contributor

To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Debbie Wykowski at dwykowski@bestversionmedia.com or 703-203-9130.

Financial Advisor Tyson McClenny - Edward Jones Investments Tyson McClenny 571-248-4858 tyson.mcclenny@edwardjones.com As an Edward Jones financial advisor, I enjoy the opportunity to partner with individuals, families and small businesses in our community. We use an established process to build personalized strategies to help you achieve your goals. Whether it’s planning for retirement, saving towards college or just trying to protect the financial future of the ones that we care the most, understanding what’s important to you is what’s important to me.

Flooring Kemper Carpet and Flooring Tammy Titus 571-222-4838 | Kempercarpet.com Kemper Carpet and Flooring is a leading, womanowned flooring company providing exceptional service to homeowners throughout the area. Tammy Titus started as a flooring consultant with the original owner, eventually buying the company in 2007, and maintains their distinguished reputation as a fullservice flooring contractor, providing refinishing and pre-finished installations. They are a proud Karastan carpet dealer, but also offer carpets from many other leading brands.

Hair and Salon Iva Bella Salon James Cornwell (540) 216-3653 | www.ivabella.com James is the Creative Director and leader of the Iva Bella artist team. He is a gifted Master Hair Designer, Makeup Artist, and Stylist. Known for making his clients feel and look amazing, he is a sought-after talent for the every-day woman as well as celebrities, musicians, and beauty industry peers. A master of his craft and on the constant quest to push boundaries with innovative techniques, James is involved in all stages of creating your Iva Bella experience.

HGBACorner By Doug Burum, President No meetings are scheduled, due to the need to help stop the community spread of the COVID-19 virus. On behalf of entire board, we are thinking of you and praying for your health and safety. You and your business are important, and we are still here to help. Please contact us through our website below, or our Facebook pages. Why Join HGBA? • Networking - Find new businesses or find a local, trusted source to help your business grow. • Community Involvement - Give back to our community through partnerships with local organizations. • Marketing - Through our directories, community outreach and mobile app, we bring attention to our local businesses. • Value - No other area business organization delivers the combination of business opportunity, marketing and voice for a nominal membership fee. To learn more about HGBA Download the Wild Apricot Member app use Login hgbaguest@hgba.biz Password hgba1234 hgba.wildapricot.org Follow us on • www.facebook.com/HGBizA • twitter.com/HGBABIZ • hgbabiz.com/linkedin

Heating, Cooling and Plumbing Appleton Campbell Mike Appleton, President of Appleton Campbell 540-347-0765 | appletoncampbell.com “Our top priority is the health and well being of our customers and employees. I thank all first responders, health care workers and essential workers during this time. Together we will all grow stronger.” - Mike Appleton, President of Appleton Campbell: Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning and Electrical. Please visit appletoncampbell.com to learn more.

Hospitality & Recreation Stonewall Golf Club / Brass Cannon Restaurant Gary Huebner, PGA 703.753.5101 | 703.753.6140 www.stonewallgolfclub.com Stonewall Golf Club and its Brass Cannon Restaurant offer recreation and hospitality in an unparalleled setting overlooking the picturesque Lake Manassas. Often mistaken as a private club, our facility and all its amenities are open to the public, and all are welcome! The recently updated Magnolia Room and adjacent Terrace provide an expansive space for private events, weddings or meetings. The Brass Cannon offers quality casual dining with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the course and lake. Our award-winning golf course challenges your game as you play along the shores of Lake Manassas. We welcome you to visit us!

Orthodontics TEEM Orthodontics Dr. Madueke Ekoh 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 cuttingedge 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.”

PERFORMING ARTS Lasley Centre for the Performing Arts Kalie Lasley 540-905-2782 | klasley@lasleycentre.com www.lasleycentre.com 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, stateof-the-art facility where students from pre-ballet to pre-professional train to be technically sound artists in a nurturing environment.

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 home-buyer or a seasoned seller. Ashley looks forward to helping you reach your real estate goals!

Neighbors of Lake Manassas

May 2020

Resident Feature

Team Hinkle:

All in for Robotics By Marianne Weaver | Photos by The Little Photo Shop The Hinkle family—John and Tammy and their sons Louis, 17, and Matthew, 14—are a robotics family. Both boys are on robotics teams, Tammy was a coach, and John is always onhand to help. “When Louis was in fourth grade, the person running the robotics program at our school moved on,” said Tammy. “No one was going to step up and run the program. So, I did. I had no idea what I was doing, but John said he would help me. So, I became Louis’ first robotics coach.” Louis is now a senior at Patriot High and has a long robotics resume.

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Neighbors of Lake Manassas

Under Tammy’s coaching, he participated in FIRST Lego League in fourth and fifth grades. Then moved on to the VEX Robotics at Bull Run Middle School. At Patriot, he was on the VEX Robotics and Seaperch Robotics teams. He also participated in a FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC), which involved 120-pound robots. “Patriot does not have an FRC team, so he was a member of the community teams,” said Tammy. He started with the Super Nova at Osborn Park High School and became a member of the Osborn Park Metal Jackets when Super Nova moved to Woodbridge. Matthew began his robotics career in second grade, when he volunteered as a field re-setter. “He wore a stripped referee shirt that fell to his ankles,” said Tammy. In third grade he was on Tammy’s FLL team at Buckland Mills Elementary School. In fourth grade, his team was the first team to win a spot to go to the State FLL Tournament for Buckland Mills. In sixth grade, Matthew started VEX Robotics with the Gainesville Middle School Team. Both boys have volunteered at robotics events.

“Louis started volunteering in fifth grade,” said Tammy. He received the Volunteer of the Year Award twice. The first time was in eighth grade and the second time—this year—for his roles as head referee at Battle of the Bridge VEX Tournament middle school division and Head Referee at Bull Run Middle School’s high school VEX tournament. “Robotics takes up a lot of our time,” said Tammy. “Robotics is something my husband and sons love to do. They have developed many hobbies as a result of robotics. They have a 3D printer, a drone and a workshop for working on Christmas lights and soldering.” Everyone in Morris Farms, as well as the surrounding communities, knows about the Hinkle Christmas display. It’s not just some pretty lights, it’s a production. “John and the boys put on a light show every year that is synced to music,” said Tammy. “John’s mom loved Christmas and he does the light show in her honor. They have 25 songs that play on a loop from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. John and Louis have made most of the elements themselves, including a giant pixel matrix.” Christmas is an event in the Hinkle household, outside AND inside.

“For the last three years, I have put the boys’ gifts in locked boxes and they have had to figure out the clues in order to get into the gifts,” said Tammy. “They are called breakout boxes. It takes me weeks to come up with the puzzles!” Last year, she charged a price for anyone who needed help. “I told them that if they needed to take a clue to figure out the puzzle, I get what is in the box and they get coal…yes I had real coal,” she said. “No one took a clue and it took them almost three hours to get into the final boxes.” In the Beginning … John is from West Virginia. He earned a BS degree in computer science from West Virginia University and an MS in business administration from George Mason University. He is a diehard Mountaineer and watches WVU football as often as possible. Tammy is from New Jersey. She attended Georgian Court College (A women’s Catholic liberal arts school run by the Sisters of Mercy), where she earned a BA with dual majors in history and education, with a political science minor. She earned an MS in curriculum and instruction from McDaniel University, and a MEd in librarianship from Longwood University.

Neighbors of Lake Manassas

May 2020

Both followed their careers to Northern Virginia. “In 2000, after living in Virginia for two years, I decided to place an ad in Yahoo personals,” said Tammy. “John and I talked via email for a few weeks before starting to talk on the phone. He was so nervous before that first phone call that he had a few shots of Scotch before dialing.” About a month and a half later, they scheduled their first in-person date. “He bought a bouquet of sunflowers, my favorite flower,” said Tammy. “We went to a street fair in Old Town Alexandria, then to dinner at a little Greek diner called Atlantic on King Street. I knew he was the one from that first date. John felt the same way and before the end of the summer, we were planning a wedding.” But John didn’t let her plan ALLL of the wedding … at least not the proposal. “I went to Build-A-Bear and got a teddy bear dressed as a bride,” he said. “On the necklace on the bear’s neck, I put her emerald engagement ring. When she took the bear out of the box, I got down on one knee and asked her to marry me. They married at Saint Frances of Assis Church in Quantico, Va., on a very hot Aug. 11, 2001.

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Neighbors of Lake Manassas

“My favorite part of the wedding was when John met me halfway down the aisle and we walked together to the alter to start our lives together,” said Tammy. John’s highlight happened toward the end of the ceremony. “Just as Father Gene was giving the final blessing, with both of our families standing on the steps of the alter, the lights went out,” he said. “Father Gene deadpanned, ‘Was it something I said?’ then started laughing at his own joke. The whole church was laughing” The couple lived in Alexandria for a short time, and both boys were born in Arlington. They moved to Morris Farms in December 2006. “We were in the second group of homes to open up in the neighborhood,” said Tammy. “Before moving here, we lived in a small townhouse in Manassas. When we found out we were having our second child, we knew we needed a larger home.” They stumbled upon the community and bought their lot sight unseen. “There was only a dirt road leading back to development and it had rained badly for several days before, making the road impossible to drive down by car,” said Tammy.

“I love my home. It is just right for us. Our street is quiet and the view out the back and front windows is peaceful. My front window looks out onto a pond and my back view is of a treecovered hill that leads down to the meadow. Our neighbors are great!” After “graduation” this year, Louis will attend West Virginia University as a second-generation Mountaineer. He was accepted into the Statler College of Engineering where he will dual major in aerospace and mechanical engineering. Matthew is an eighth grader at Gainesville Middle School. His favorite subjects are math and science. He is an expert with computer aided design and designed his team’s entire robot on the computer before it was built. Both boys attended Buckland Mills Elementary School, where Tammy taught since the school opened in 2006. Because she was a teacher there, the boys were given the option to attend the neighborhood school or go with their mother. “It was a great experience for all of us and I am so glad I had the opportunity to transfer them to this wonderful school,” said Tammy, who taught fourth and fifth grades until 2017 when she moved into the position of librarian. In 2015, she went back to school earn her masters in librarianship. When Matthew still had one year left in elementary school, the family had to make some decisions. Not knowing where she’d find an opening, she gave him three options: He could stay at Buckland Mills and they’d workout a driving arrangement; he could go with her to yet-to-be-determined new school; he could go to Glenkirk with his neighborhood friends. “He told me he wanted to stay at Buckland Mills with me for his fifth-grade year,” she said. “This is a young man who does not ask for anything. So, I postponed my job hunt for a year and the library position opened up at Buckland Mills at the end of his fifth-grade year. I was able to move from my classroom to the library. It was meant to be.” John works at Strategic Missions Elements as a senior software engineer. At press time, the Hinkle family was hunkered down midquarantine. They were baking and bickering; reading and rebooting; and laughing … lots of laughing. “Perfect is boring,” said Tammy. “We certainly are not perfect. We fight like family, but we also love unconditionally. Our boys know that no matter what, this is their home and they are wanted and loved.” Neighbors of Lake Manassas

May 2020

Braces Are Not What They Used to Be Expert Contributor By Dr. Madueke Ekoh TEEM ORTHODONTICS Why should I consider an Orthodontist? An orthodontist has additional training beyond dental school to learn better and more efficient techniques in dealing with teeth movement and jaw function. Through orthodontic treatment, problems like crooked or crowded teeth, overbites or underbites, incorrect jaw position and disorders of the jaw joints are corrected. If left untreated, these problems can result in tooth decay, gum disease, headaches and earaches, as well as speaking, biting or chewing problems. When is the right time for braces or orthodontic treatment? People with orthodontic problems can benefit from treatment at nearly any age. An ideal time for placement of braces is between 10 and 14 years of age, while the head

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Neighbors of Lake Manassas

and mouth are still growing, and teeth are more accessible to straightening. However, because any adjustments in facial appearance can be traumatic to a child during these sensitive years, parents should discuss the matter with their children before braces are applied. Braces arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just for kids. More and more adults are also wearing braces to correct teeth problems and to improve their smiles. Children as young as 6 years can be evaluated if parents or dentists notice a deviation in the way the teeth or jaw fits. What kind of braces will I have to wear? Your orthodontist will know the appliance to use for your particular problem, but you often have a choice. Braces generally come in two varieties: fixed braces or removable braces. The most popular type are fixed braces. Examples of fixed braces are regular metal braces, clear ceramic braces, gold braces, rhodium-coated braces, self-clipping braces and

lingual or behind the teeth braces, which are placed either on the front or behind the teeth and wires can then be placed to move the teeth to the desired position. Removable braces are called aligners and are made from plastics. They are clear and removable, and you will wear each aligner for about two to three weeks and only remove them for eating, brushing and flossing. This may be an option for people with mild orthodontic problems. People who are concerned about climate change or carbon footprint might think twice before using aligners. How long will I have to wear braces? That depends upon your treatment plan. The more complicated your bite problem is, and the older you are, the longer the period of treatment. Most patients can count on wearing full braces between 12 and 24 months, followed by the wearing of a retainer to set and align tissues surrounding straightened teeth. There are a few technological advancements that can help with reducing the time in braces, an example is to customize either the brackets or the wires using Suresmile technology, micro-osteo perforation using Propel technologies and sometimes using vibratory technologies.

Neighbors of Lake Manassas

May 2020

Sponsored by The Goddard School

Kids Corner

Congratulations Class of 2020

By Marianne Weaver

Elizabeth Allen Sweet Briar College, Sweet Briar, Va.

Kayla Banks Coastal Carolina University, Conway, S.C.

Addison Bebar George Mason University, Fairfax, Va.

Dawson Benoit Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, La.

Although media coverage of COVID-19 intensified throughout February, no one was prepared for schools statewide to close Friday, March 13. Field trips: canceled. Concerts: canceled. Sports: canceled. None felt this more than the Class of 2020 and their families. Prom was canceled, and at press time, the Prince William County School Board had not put forth a plan for graduation. Although we cannot coordinate a ceremony, we do want to recognize and honor our neighbors who graduated this year. Congratulations Class of 2020!!!! WE ARE STILL ACCEPTING SENIOR SUBMISSIONS FOR OUR JUNE ISSUE. Please send an email to mweaver@bestversionmedia.com. Tell us your graduateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name, neighborhood and post-graduation plans. Please include a high-resolution photograph (and photo credit).

Madeline Brunt Johnson & Wales University, Providence, R.I. Meredith Brunt, Flagler College, St. Augustine, Fla.

Nick Capannelli, United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colo.

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Neighbors of Lake Manassas

Cade Burdette University of South Carolina, Columbia, S.C.

Jacqueline Carroll, Northern Virginia Community College, Manassas, Va.

Selah Conners Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, N.Y.

Daniel Ellis Longwood University, Farmville, Va.

Sidney Fitch, University of California San Diego, San Diego, Calif.

Stephen Gilbert Milligan University, Elizabethton, Tenn.

David Hallem To Be Determined

Jacob Hamacher Charleston Southern University, Charleston S.C.

Louis Hinkle West Virginia University, Morgantown, W.Va.

Chase Jaramillo, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Va.

po box 164 nokesville va 20182 FOR ALL YOU HOME ELECTRICAL NEEDS, CALL 703-594-3913! IT RUNS IN OUR FAMILY, IT WILL RUN IN YOURS. Neighbors of Lake Manassas

May 2020

Class of 2020

Michael Johnson Potomac State College, Keyser, W. Va.

Ryan Kindel University of Tampa, Tampa, Fla.

Elysia Dianne Koury To Be Determined

Lauren Lash Pennsylvania State University, State College, Pa.

Bryce Evan Meriweather Virginia State University, Petersburg, Va.

Alexandra Milburn Northern Virginia Community College, Manassas

Tara Minick Indiana University Pennsylvania, Indiana, Pa.

Hannah Nugent Bridgewater College, Bridgewater, Va.

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Neighbors of Lake Manassas

Kids Corner

Elizabeth Ozark, Christopher Newport University, Newport News, Va.

Daniel Perry Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Va.

KaSarah Robinson Radford University, Radford, Va.

Noah Sarmiento, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Va.

Tyler Settle Slippery Rock University, Slippery Rock, Pa.

Fatima Sindi, Northern Virginia Community College, Manassas, Va.

Alexa Smith James Madison University, Harrisonburg, Va.

Tyler Street, Christopher Newport University, Newport News, Va.

Neighbors of Lake Manassas

May 2020

FINANCIAL FOCUS: CARES Act Offers Help for Investors, Small Businesses Expert Contributor Submitted by Tyson McClenny Edward Jones Advisor As we go through the coronavirus crisis, we are all, first and foremost, concerned about the health of our loved ones and communities. But the economic implications of the virus have also weighed heavily on our minds. However, if you’re an investor or a business owner, you just got some help from Washington – and it could make a big difference, at least in the short term, for your financial future. Specifically, the passage of the $2 trillion Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act offers, among other provisions, the following: • Expanded unemployment benefits – The CARES Act provides $250 billion for extended unemployment insurance, expands eligibility and provides workers with an additional $600 per week for four months, in addition to what state programs pay. The package will also cover the self-employed, independent contractors and “gig economy” workers. Obviously, if your employment has been

affected, these benefits can be a lifeline. Furthermore, the benefits could help you avoid liquidating some long-term investments you’ve earmarked for retirement just to meet your daily cash flow needs. • Direct payments – Individuals will receive a one-time payment of up to $1,200; this amount is reduced for incomes over $75,000 and eliminated altogether at $99,000. Joint filers will receive up to $2,400, which will be reduced for incomes over $150,000 and eliminated at $198,000 for joint filers with no children. Plus, taxpayers with children will receive an extra $500 for each dependent child under the age of 17. If you don’t need this money for an immediate need, you might consider putting it into a low-risk, liquid account as part of an emergency fund. • No penalty on early withdrawals – Typically, you’d have to pay a 10 percent penalty on early withdrawals from IRAs, 401(k)s and similar retirement accounts. Under the CARES Act, this penalty will be waived for individuals who qualify for COVID-19 relief and/or in plans that allow COVID-19 distributions. Withdrawals will still be taxable, but the taxes can be spread out over three years. Still, you might want to avoid taking early withdrawals, as you’ll want to keep your retirement accounts intact as long as possible. • Suspension of required withdrawals – Once you turn 72, you’ll be required to take withdrawals from your traditional IRA and 401(k). The CARES Act waives these required minimum distributions for 2020. If you’re in this age group, but you don’t need the money, you can let your retirement accounts continue growing on a tax-deferred basis. • Increase of retirement plan loan limit – Retirement plan investors who qualify for COVID-19 relief can now borrow up to $100,000 from their accounts, up from $50,000, provided their plan allows loans. We recommend that you explore other options, such as the direct payments, to bridge the gap on current expenses and if you choose to take a plan loan work with your financial adviser to develop strategies to pay back these funds over time to reduce any long-term impact to your retirement goals. • Small-business loans – The CARES Act provides $349 billion to help small businesses – those with fewer than 500 employees – retain workers and avoid closing up shop. A significant part of this small business relief is the Paycheck Protection Program. This initiative provides federally guaranteed loans to small businesses who maintain payroll during this emergency. Significantly, these loans may be forgiven if borrowers use the loans for payroll and other essential business expenses (such as mortgage interest, rent and utilities) and maintain their payroll during the crisis. We’ll be in a challenging economic environment for some time, but the CARESAct should give us a positive jolt – and brighten our outlook. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

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Neighbors of Lake Manassas

May 2020

House of Mercy Food Pantry Open During COVID-19 Crisis By Jessica Root, Executive Director House of Mercy is a 501c3 organization dedicated to providing food, clothing, education and prayer to those in need by showing God’s love and mercy to all who walk through their doors. We are entirely grateful for all those who have stepped up to donate monetary funds and food to keep our food pantry open during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Many organizations have offered to partner with us, including Great Harvest Bread Company (delivering loaves of fresh bread weekly, pictured), the residents at Heritage Hunt (making more than 1,500 reusable face masks for healthcare workers, pictured), Holy Trinity Catholic Church (holding a huge food drive), Northwest Federal Credit Union (monetary donation), NOVA Community Foundation (emergency grant), and so many others – especially our individual volunteers and donors! However, this is not enough! Since the Thrift Store and Donation Center closed March 19, we are losing about one-third of total revenue, amounting to about $30,000 to $40,000 per month. This is what “keeps the lights on” in the food pantry during normal times. On top of that, as most food pantries are seeing, we have doubled our clientele families who are in need of food. And we expect that number to rise in the coming months as more people lose their jobs. We are the only food pantry on our end of the county that is open five days per week, six hours per day for anyone in need. Please consider helping by donating food, purchasing items off our amazon wish list, or hosting a neighborhood

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food drive. Please contact us at info@ houseofmercyva.org regarding any questions or if you would like to help. If you are in need of food during this time or you know someone who is, please stop by Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and our staff will be able to assist you. House of Mercy 8170 Flannery Court, Manassas, VA 20109 703-659-1636, www.houseofmercyva.org

Real Estate Statistics

Real Estate SOLDS ADVERTISED SUBDIVISION.............. ADDRESS........................................BEDS..........BATHS.......... HALF BATHS................. SOLD Bridlewood................................................ 8427 Holstein Pony Court...............3....................... 2............................... 2............................$489,900 Broad Run Oaks........................................ 8302 Double Eagle Street................4....................... 3............................... 1............................$515,000 Ellis Mill Estates..................................... 14496 Sharpshinned Drive...............5....................... 3............................... 1............................$595,000 Lake Manassas.......................................... 8020 Amsterdam Court......................5....................... 3............................... 0............................$605,000 Lake Manassas.......................................... 8000 Amsterdam Court......................6....................... 3............................... 1............................$630,000 Lake Manassas.......................................... 15872 Spyglass Hill Loop..................5....................... 4............................... 1............................$902,000 Lake Manassas.......................................... 8330 Roxborough Loop.....................5....................... 4..............................................................$980,000 Lindholm Estates.................................... 14196 Glenkirk Road............................4....................... 4..............................................................$869,000 Meadows At Morris Farm.................. 14456 Sharpshinned Drive...............3....................... 2............................... 1............................$405,000 Meadows At Morris Farm.................. 14452 Sharpshinned Drive...............4....................... 3............................... 1............................$425,000 Meadows At Morris Farm.................. 14252 Ladderbacked Drive..............4....................... 3............................... 1............................$550,000 Rocky Run..................................................... 8235 Tall Timber Drive.........................4....................... 3............................... 1............................$449,900 Rocky Run..................................................... 8259 Shimmering Rock Road...........3....................... 3............................... 1............................$470,000 The Regents At Lake Manassas....... 8081 Tysons Oaks Court....................5....................... 3............................... 1............................$646,000 Virginia Oaks.............................................. 8130 Cerromar Way...............................3....................... 3............................... 1............................$395,000 Virginia Oaks.............................................. 7634 Covewood Court.......................4....................... 2............................... 1............................$435,000 Virginia Oaks.............................................. 8132 Landfall Court...........................3....................... 2............................... 1............................$469,000 Virginia Oaks.............................................. 8175 Landfall Court...........................5....................... 3............................... 1............................$494,000 Virginia Oaks.............................................. 8196 Tillinghast Lane.........................5....................... 3............................... 1............................$684,900 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 real estate community in the area. Any real estate agentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.

Neighbors of Lake Manassas

May 2020

Charity Spotlight

Meg Hawkins: Making Everything Good By Marianne Weaver Making Everything Good’s mission is to assist and support the needs of individuals, families and organizations associated with public safety, military, veterans and the local community. “We enjoy helping others and organizing events to raise funds for charities. We believe in service to others,” said Meg Hawkins, director and co-founder. “We are a local small nonprofit and we truly blessed by our supporters.” Launch Hawkins said she has always undertaken volunteer and charity work. One of the main projects she and her husband, Eric Provow, worked on was Project FACT. “Oftentimes victims of assault must give all their clothing to the police as evidence during an investigation. As a result, victims will often wear hospital gowns/scrubs when leaving the hospital because replacement clothes are rarely available,” said Hawkins. “This can be distressing in an already traumatic situation. Victims need clothing to wear after they

are discharged and able to go home or to a shelter. Victim advocates and hospitals provide clothing to victims, but they rely solely on donations from the community.” Hawkins organized her first Project FACT event in 2017 and tasked her friend Angela Bryant to create a flyer. “At the top it stated: Making Everything Good presents: Project FACT,” said Hawkins. “And I totally had a blonde moment when I was reviewing it and wondered, who’s Making Everything Good? My husband said, It’s you! It spells your first name – Meg.’” The nonprofit Making Everything Good was officially established in 2018 to assist and support the various charity events and causes produced by Hawkins. Project FACT When someone is a victim of domestic or child abuse they are sent for a forensics examination at the Inova Ewing Forensic Assessment and Consultation Team, which addresses the unique needs of abused children and adults. They offer expert medical evaluation and forensic evidence collection for victims of domestic violence. “I was speaking to a victim advocate when she advised me that she had to send a victim home in a pair of scrubs,” said Hawkins. “When I found this out, I stated that a victim will never leave without proper clothing and undergarments. We have collected items for the FACT department for over two years. Whenever they need something, they contact me via email and I deliver what they need. People are constantly donating to the cause throughout the year, which is very helpful as well.” MEG hosts an annual fundraiser called – Project FACT. Additionally, people donate clothing throughout the year. “Every donation goes directly to these victims, and it truly does make a difference,” said Hawkins. “It is a compassionate way to show support to victims who are in the middle of a traumatic experience. Our hope is that this will help facilitate the recovery process and allow survivors to leave the hospital with dignity and respect.” Dave’s Christmas Cruise Dave’s Christmas Cruise was initially started by Dave Gambale, owner of Freedom Bail Bonding. “Dave’s Christmas Cruise was named to honor of a dear friend, Dave Chapin, who passed away a few years ago,” said Hawkins. “It raises funds to enable the Fairfax County Police Motor Squad via the Children First Charity, LLC, to purchase and deliver toys for children who are hospitalized during the holiday season.” When Gambale asked for help, Hawkins agreed without hesitation. “I hope to either host an event or motorcycle charity ride to help raise funds,” she said. “We haven’t started planning that, but it will have to be in the fall, maybe in October. In November, there

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Neighbors of Lake Manassas

are drop boxes at each Fairfax County Police district station. Anyone can drop off toys after Thanksgiving until the first week in December.” The MEG Express, etc. Hawkins has honored her commitment to support law enforcement, veterans and and first responder families in need through the MEG Express and other initiatives. “For the last 18 months, we have been working behind the scenes for numerous veterans and first responders providing transportation to treatment centers,” she said. “We keep their anonymity because of the sensitiveness of these acts of support.” Last year, a member of MEG heard about a local public safety family who needed help supporting their nonverbal son with autism. He communicates with family and teachers through an iPad application.

“The application alone is $400, and the iPad is another $400,” she said. “Thankfully, we were able to secure an iPad from an anonymous donor and we provided the funds for the family to purchase the app for their son.” Color Me Brave The third project, Color Me Brave, provides resources for local police and fire department personnel to make a monthly trip to Inova Children’s Hospital where they engage with the kids and their families. “During their visits, coloring books, crayons, stickers, and other goodies are given out to bring smiles and joy to the patients and their families,” she said. “Each year, over 500 coloring books, crayons, stickers, and other items are passed out by our local heroes.” For more information about MEG, visit www.makingeverythinggood.org.

Neighbors of Lake Manassas

May 2020

Local Residents Make Face Masks

By Marianne Weaver

Glenkirk resident Kristy Diffley is a nurse practitioner who has worked through the quarantine. Like many healthcare facilities, hers was running short on face masks. “Due to the shortage, I and others are trying to make the supply we have last as long as possible,” she said. “A sewn mask cannot take the place of a medical mask, but it can be used over them to avoid them from becoming soiled and hopefully last longer.” With very little skills herself, she reached out to neighbor/friend Jen Silva, who she described as a “master sewer” to find out which materials would work best. Silva picked up the ball and ran with it. She sewed masks and also posted on the Glenkirk page encouraging neighbors to do the same. “Within 24 hours I had enough masks to distribute to each medical provider at my pediatric office,” said Diffley. “It is very nice to have the support of those within my community to help in this way. We are

May 2020

Neighbors of Lake Manassas

all going to work and fighting for the health of others, I want to thank them for taking the time to give back to keep us safe and help us to do our jobs.”

Neighbors of Lake Manassas

May 2020

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