AUGUST 2021
Dennis and Florence Byrne Put Family First ALSO INSIDE: Cover photo by The Little Photo Shop | An exclusive magazine serving the neighborhoods of Piedmont and Dominion Valley
One Year = 365 Opportunities to Volunteer! Pg. 12 Kids Corner features National Merit Scholars Sophia Evanisko and Avik Rao Pg. 16 Ask the Librarian – Summer Reading Challenge! Pg. 22
2
AUGUST 2021
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
PUBLICATION TEAM Publishers: Michael and Debbie Wykowski Content Coordinator: Marianne Weaver Designer: Jody Zipp Contributing Photographer: Melinda Ratcliff, The Little Photo Shop
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 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. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2021 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.
Happy August!
Dear Readers,
I’m almost afraid to say it, but I think we’re just about back to “normal.” Football, soccer and field hockey teams have returned to the fields. Marching bands and cheerleaders are practicing. And the kids will be going back to school before the end of the month (Remember to send your back-to-school photos to me at mweaver@bestversionmedia.com). I’ve noticed the pace of life is picking up because our calendar is much more extensive this month. Most of the events we’ve listed support local nonprofits: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Carried to Full Term, CASA, House of Mercy, Prince William County Animal Shelter, Sweet Julia Grace and more. Somehow, these organizations managed to survive the quarantine. Now they are relying on the community to support them. And it shouldn’t be too hard – they’re hosting fun events to appeal to all members of the community – foodies, runners, bike riders, car enthusiasts, walkers, bike riders … there’s something for everyone! If attending one of these events piques your interest in giving back to the community, Volunteer Prince William, our featured non-profit this month, connects volunteers with the organizations. Opportunities are listed online at volunteerprincewilliam.org.
Debbie and Michael Wykowski,
PUBLISHERS
Marianne Weaver, CONTENT COORDINATOR
FOOD PANTRY NEEDS Submitted by House of Mercy Food Pantry Please help us feed the hungry in NoVa! We need: fresh vegetables, fruit, dairy and meat (if delivered directly to HoM).
Check out the link to our website for an Amazon wish list as well: www.houseofmercyva.org
To help keep the food pantry stocked all year, please donate: Cans of tomatoes, chicken, tuna, vegetables, soup, beans, fruit and corn; macaroni and cheese; olive/vegetable oil; pasta and sauce; cereal.
Food Pantry / Donation Center / Thrift Store 8170 Flannery Court, Manassas, VA 20109 Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. (703) 659-1636 info@houseofmercyva.org
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
AUGUST 2021
3
EXPERT Contributors AUTO DETAILING On The Fly Detailing Dillon Thompson, Owner 571-469-1055 | contact@ontheflydetailing.com OnTheFlyDetailing.com Facebook: OnTheFlyDetailingVA Instagram: @OnTheFlyDetailing
On The Fly Detailing is a family-owned auto detailing company focusing on the exclusive desires of the motor vehicle enthusiast. Every vehicle touched by On The Fly Detailing is treated as a valued piece of artwork; but unlike art, vehicles are constantly exposed to uninvited abuse from sun, terrain, and daily use. So when you need the absolute finest level of care for your vehicle, look no further than On The Fly Detailing.
EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANT Claire Machosky-Ullman, BA, MS, SAS Author: A PATH TO LEARNING AND LITERACY and STUDY*LEARN*SUCCEED 516-384-9517 | cmachosky@comcast.net Claire’s mission is to help students learn “How to Study”. She believes students need to be taught how to study, and her recently released book, A PATH TO LEARNING AND LITERACY, does just that. An experienced teacher, school administrator, and educational consultant, Claire designed and successfully taught programs that improved student understanding and performance. She served on curriculum and assessment committees with the NY State Department of Education, and is currently a Teaching with Primary Sources (TPS) Coach with the Library of Congress. As an author and based on the content of her book, she gives talks on School Success and offers “How to Study” workshops for students.
FINANCIAL ADVISOR Deborah Trnka - Edward Jones Advisors Deborah Trnka 571-248-8267 deborah.trnka@edwardjones.com Edward Jones is a different kind of investment firm. To us, face time and think time make sense. We meet with you to learn your individual needs so we can develop a strategy to help you achieve your long-term financial goals. You can expect personalized service to develop an investment strategy that makes sense for you. Contact me today!
HEALTH AND WELLNESS Health & Wellness with Lisa Lisa Gorsuch 202-455-5017 www.healthwellnesswithlisa.com healthwellnesslisa@gmail.com Facebook: healthwellnesslisa Lisa has her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology. For the past five years, she has worked in a private, outpatient practice helping individuals and families. Due to COVID-19, she transitioned to working at home and is now a Certified Mindset Life Coach. With a holistic approach, Lisa helps her clients overcome obstacles, achieve their goals by developing healthy thoughts, beliefs and attitudes, and ultimately experience the necessary change and results that they want in their lives.
HOLISTIC / ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE Your CBD Store - Gainesville, VA Beth Collingwood, Owner 703-743-9403 | beth@yourcbdva.com yourcbdva.com | budzzy.com Facebook: yourcbdstoregainesvilleva Instagram: yourcbdva
Beth Collingwood, the owner of Your CBD Store in Gainesville and Fairfax, lives in Gainesville and has worked in the pharmaceutical industry for almost 20 years. Her journey with CBD began in 2015 when she was diagnosed with blood cancer and began looking for more natural remedies to help with the pain, anxiety and insomnia that were by-products of treatment. CBD changed her life, so she was inspired to open a boutique-style shop focused on providing a comfortable, safe space where each client can discuss the benefits, safety and relevance of cannabis.
INSURANCE - HOME, AUTO, BUSINESS Stover Insurance Agency Eddy Lang 571-261-2700 www.stoveragency.com haymarket@stoveragency.com The Stover Insurance Agency has served individuals and businesses with their insurance needs since 1930. Whether you are insuring your family, your home, your automobile or your business, you want to feel confident that you have an organization behind you that will take care of your needs. The Stover Insurance Agency is there for you.
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 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.”
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.
BECOME AN EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR
4
AUGUST 2021
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Michael and Debbie Wykowski at dwykowski@bestversionmedia.com or 703-203-9130.
HGBA CORNER REAL ESTATE Century 21 New Millennium Diane Quigley 703-732-5952 www.dianeqworks4u.com Diane is a successful Real Estate agent with Century 21 New Millennium and also a Broker who has been a professional realtor for over twenty years. She earned her Bachelor’s of Business Administration/Real Estate degree from Florida International University, and then became a Real Estate Broker and was Vice President of Century 21 Alinco Associates. Diane founded a Real Estate appraisal business and she has served as Chairman of the Virginia Real Estate Appraisal Board. She is also a Professional Stager and a Certified Military Residential Specialist.
SOCIAL EDUCATION National League of Junior Cotillions Kathleen Geneva 703-901-1498 | kathleen.geneva@nljc.com www.nljc.com/chapter/westprincewilliam Kathleen Geneva is a licensed Modern Etiquette and Cotillion Instructor with the National League of Junior Cotillions (NLJC) and the Emily Post Institute.She was recently awarded the Best New Director of the Year by the NLJC and also received recognition for Best Public Relations for her local franchise Chapters.Mrs. Geneva has a genuine passion for teaching children the importance of social education. Her goal is for every student to leave her program with an increased sense of knowledge, confidence, self worth and skills that will assist them in young adulthood and last them a lifetime.
By Jason Knight, President HGBA The members of HGBA would like to welcome all local businesses at our next meeting! Our next meeting will be on Tuesday, August 17 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Please check out our website below, or our Facebook page, for the venue and more information. 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
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
AUGUST 2021
5
RESIDENT FEATURE
Dennis and Florence Byrne Put Family First By Marianne Weaver | Photos by The Little Photo Shop Dennis and Florence Byrne’s love story began in Philadelphia but took root and flourished in Northern Virginia. Here, they raised four children—Veronica, Dennis, Heather and Bridget— who have all gone on to start their own families in this corner of the world. Dennis and Florence live in the Regency at Dominion Valley. “Dennis always wanted to golf more than he could when the children were young,” said Florence. “We both golf. I am still learning but enjoy it a lot.” Dennis is also involved with the Regency Chorale, Music Makers, Regency Players and serves on several committees. Florence enjoys book club, mahjong, bunco, walking, and the Regency Women’s Club. “This is truly an active 55-and-over award-winning community,” she said. “People here are so friendly and caring.” PHILADELPHIA ROOTS Dennis was attending LaSalle College at night when he was drafted. He joined the U.S. Navy and served for four years, including a year in combat in Vietnam. Following that tour, he became a television station manager and news broadcaster for the American Forces Network. After serving, he used the G.I. Bill to earn a bachelor’s degree in radio, television and film from Temple University, and later attended the University of Pennsylvania for organizational development and public affairs.
6
AUGUST 2021
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
After college, Dennis served in several capacities as a public affairs executive and registered lobbyist at three national trade and professional associations. He spent the majority of his career working for Sun Oil Company (SUNOCO) in Philadelphia. Florence attended the Philadelphia Community College and worked at the Bell Telephone Company of Pennsylvania for 10 years. The two met in 1975 at the Grog Shop in Center City Philadelphia and would randomly run into each other. A few months later. They had their official first date – lunch at McGillin’s Olde Ale House in Philadelphia. “We got engaged at a CPA convention in Hershey, Pa.,” said Florence. “Dennis’ boss announced to 5,000 CPAs that he had asked me to marry him. The ring was presented a short time later at the Rusty Scupper Restaurant along the waterfront in downtown Philadelphia.” They were married March 5, 1977, at St. Timothy’s Roman Catholic Church in Northeast Philadelphia. “It was a beautiful, warm, sunny day,” said Florence. “At the reception that followed, we had several family members and friends who sang. Our honeymoon was in Martinique, French West Indies. It was magical.” The family moved to Northern Virginia in 1993. For the next 15 years, Dennis worked at the U.S. Small Business Administration in Washington, D.C., while Florence worked at the Chlorine Institute.
Today, they are active members of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, where Dennis serves as a lector and Florence served as a Eucharistic minister. Dennis is a Past Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus. Florence volunteers in the religious education program for elementary school students. She is a member of the P.E.O, a philanthropic organization where women celebrate the advancement of women and educate women through scholarships, grants, and more. Although settled in Virginia, Dennis is still a devoted Eagles and Phillies fan. “Florence was a fan of the Philadelphia Flyers back when they were known as the ‘Broadstreet Bullies,’” said Dennis. “Everyone in Philadelphia loved the Flyers.” While working at SUNOCO, NASCAR became part of Dennis’ responsibilities. “At the first race Florence attended (Pocono Raceway) she asked how many times the cars went around the track,” said Dennis. “When I replied 250, she knew she never wanted to come to another race. But it grows on you and she soon became a fan.”
THE LAUGHMAN FAMILY Daughter Veronica married William Laughman June 7, 2003, at St. John Neumann Church in Reston.
The couple said they’ve enjoyed travel to Europe and across the United States but have shifted their attention to something more local: “We delight on focusing mostly on grandchildren and their activities,” said Dennis.
“We met in college,” Veronica said. “We both attended York College of Pennsylvania and I met him my freshman year. He was a junior on the baseball team and I was on the basketball team.”
Lucky for them, their children’s families all live relatively close.
He took her out for Italian on their first date.
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
AUGUST 2021
7
“He borrowed a car from a friend and took me out to dinner,” she said. “We were both broke, but he wanted to do something special.” They dated throughout college. When he graduated, he moved into the Byrne’s basement and focused on launching his career. “He visited me almost every weekend, driving the two hours to York and came to most of my basketball games,” she said. “The day before my birthday in 2001, with the ring burning a hole in his pocket, he got down on one knee in my apartment and proposed.” It rained—a lot – on their wedding day. “The church was under construction and had a tarp covering one wall. The parking lot was a muddy mess,” said Veronica. “Half the wedding party stayed at our apartment the night before the wedding. Tired and nervous, we made it through a beautiful ceremony and when the priest announced us as man and wife, he never said kiss the bride. We both waited for music and it never came so we just started walking down the aisle. We forgot to kiss! When we got to the back of the church, we realized it and kissed immediately.” They have two children— Elijah Cole, 13, and Sienna Rose, 11. They live in Manassas and both attended Pennington Traditional School. Elijah will attend Osbourn Park High School in the fall and was accepted into their Biotech Program. Elijah plays baseball for the GMBL Manassas Cavalry and the Greater Manassas Baseball Recreational League. He made the Osbourn Park High School Junior Varsity Baseball Team as an 8th grader. Sienna plays soccer in with the Northern Virginia Soccer Club and dances at the Virginia Dance Center. She is also an equestrian and will be competing in dressage and hunter/ jumper this summer and fall. She is also a Girl Scout Cadette. Veronica is the ADA coordinator for Prince William County Department of Parks and Recreation. She’s also a certified therapeutic recreation specialist and teaches horseback riding lessons at Silver Eagle Stables. She is the troop leader of Sienna’s Girl Scout Cadette troop. Bill works for the U.S. Department of Justice. He coaches Eli’s travel baseball team the GMBL Manassas Cavalry. THE BYRNE FAMILY Dennis and Gabrielle met at the Auld Shebeen … although they were not the only Byrne to meet their match at the Irish pub in Fairfax. Their first date was the classic dinner and a movie … sort of. “PF Changs was packed,” said Gabrielle. “We would’ve missed our movie so we settled for pizza and popcorn at the theater.” They were married at St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Reston, Feb. 10, 2007. “The best memory of the wedding was just the blessing of having all our family able to celebrate with us,” said Gabrielle. “Our families know how to have a good time and it was great to see all the dancing and people having a good time.” They’ve made a home in Culpeper with their four children: Trey, 17, Michael, 12, Gabriel, 10, and Fiona, 4.
8
AUGUST 2021
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
THE HANKS FAMILY Daughter Heather met her husband Eric Hanks in high school. “I was 16 and Eric was 15 and ½ years old,” said Heather “I went to Oakton High School, and he went to Herndon high school, so it was a fateful meeting!” They dated for 13 years.
Trey, a senior at Eastern View High School in Culpeper, is a fouryear member of the wrestling team and recently won multiple gold medals in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Michael will be in eighth grade at Culpeper Middle School. He is on the wrestling team, recently started football, and recently won double gold at a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournament. He is a member of the National Junior Honor Society. Gabriel will be a fifth grader at Yowell Elementary. He also wrestles and recently won a gold and a bronze medal a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournament. “All of our boys have been wrestling for the past five years,” said Gabrielle. “The boys are blessed to have their dad as their coach.” Fiona will be starting preschool at Epiphany Catholic School this September. Dennis and Gabrielle run Mt Kim Culpeper LLC, a martial arts school in Culpeper, they opened immediately after their honeymoon in 2007. They offer Tae Kwon Do, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, kickboxing, summer camp and MMA.
“We used to go camping annually at Maple Tree Campground in Rohrersville, Md., near Harper’s Ferry,” she said. “It was there that we got engaged on Oct.14, 2011. Eric planned a ‘last minute’ weekend getaway for just the two of us. He put the ring and a bottle of bubbly in our cooler. It was quite a surprise when I opened it up, he got down on one knee and proposed at twilight by a warm crackling campfire!” They were married June 23, 2012, at Heritage Hunt Golf club in a beautiful outdoor wedding ceremony. She said her favorite memory of the evening was dancing with her new husband to the song “The Sun is Shining Down,” by J.J. Grey and Mofro. “The first line of the song is ‘How many more days can you hold out, How much longer can you wait? She asked,” said Heather. “Then it goes on to say ‘Glory, Glory, Hallelujah’ and I put my hands in the air like ‘Yes, finally!!!’ because we had been dating for 13 years! That got a chuckle from our family and friends.” Eric and Heather live in the Brookside neighborhood in Warrenton with their three children: Mason, 7, Holden, 5, and Madison, 4.
The family attends Precious Blood Catholic Church, where Dennis is a Eucharistic minister.
“Our children share our love of movies and camping,” said Heather. “We started going to drive-in movies during the pandemic and it is something our family will continue to do together. We also love taking the kids to camp at our cabins in West Virginia.”
In addition to competing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournaments, Gabrielle said the family enjoys fishing, hiking and spending time with family.
Mason and Holden attend C. Hunter Ritchie Elementary. Mason is in the second grade and was accepted into the gifted program for mathematics. He plays baseball and tennis.
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
AUGUST 2021
9
Holden will start Kindergarten this year. He plays tennis and attended a martial arts summer camp. Madison attends pre-school at Everbrook Academy in Gainesville. “During the Coronavirus pandemic, our wonderful niece Sienna held dance lessons with Madison and her cousin Fiona over Zoom,” said Heather. “Maddie loved it so much, that she is now taking ballet and tap lessons at Gainesville Dance Center.” Heather earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from James Madison University. She has 20 years of experience as a federal government IT consultant and currently works as a business systems analyst and project manager for OPTiMO IT. Eric graduated Suma Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree from George Mason University. He served in the Army National Guard and was deployed to Afghanistan with the 29th Infantry division during Operation Enduring Freedom. He currently works for the government in federal law enforcement. He is also a USTA-rated tennis player. THE ORNER FAMILY The Auld Shebeen was the site for a second Byrne meeting: Bridget met Matt Orner there in March 2013. A year and a half later, September 28, 2014, they got engaged at the top of Bull Run Mountain.
10
AUGUST 2021
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
“It was a routine morning hike on Bull Run Mountain,” said Matt. “I had organized a small number of family and friends to hike up the mountain prior so they could capture the big moment.” He was cautious so Bridget wouldn’t notice their cars, ruining the surprise. “There were many moments where she almost found out what was happening,” he said. “She questioned why we were walking a different path. She opened my backpack to put her sweater in and never realized a book I had made her was right there. At one point she asked why I kept looking at my phone and it was because I was texting everyone to make sure they were ready. I just kept telling her I was looking for music to play once we reached the top. She continues to keep me on my toes to this day.”
They were married Oct. 17, 2015, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. “During the Mass, I got ahead of myself and went in for the kiss too soon,” said Bridget. “Matt told me ‘not yet.’ It made our priest giggle.” They hosted their reception at Dominion Valley Country Club. And it was quite the party! “While it might be a discussion on whom actually has rhythm in the family, we all love to dance,” said Matt. “The dance floor was packed all night.” Bridget and her father started dancing to the tear jerker “Daddy Dance with Me” by Krystal Keith. “But half way through, we surprised our guests with a fun-filled jig to “Rockin’ Robin” by Bobby Day.” Matt danced with his mother, a huge John Denver fan, to “Sunshine on my Shoulders.” The couple live with their two children – Austin, 2, and Charlotte Grace, 3 months – in Knollwood Estates at the base of Bull Run Mountain. “We love the wooded lot, the acreage of land, and the seclusion,” said Bridget. “It is a quiet and peaceful neighborhood.” Matt has worked in government acquisitions and procurement for 11 years. But that’s just his day job. “I have always had a passion for cars, which led me to owning and operating a small business detailing cars,” he said. “I ended up detailing exotic cars for a local car collector whom I later became a chauffeur for as well as a handy man/grounds keeper for the owners farm.” Bridget has worked in family medicine with Inova Fairfax Family Practice as a registered nurse for 11 years. “From a young age I knew I wanted to become a nurse or teacher,” she said. ““Working in family medicine, you truly experience the ‘circle of life.’”” FAMILY FIRST “Our family is blessed to be so close,” said Veronica. “With all of us living in the Northern Virginia area we are able to gather often and share in each other’s special moments.” She said the family convenes for Tae Kwon Do tournaments, baseball games, gender reveals, winery trips, fishing, fourwheeling, trick-or-treating, Christmas light walks, Fourth of July fireworks, parades, dance recitals, horse shows, and countless family parties. “The best part is, we have many more years of these shared family moments. My siblings and I are very close and watching my nieces and nephews grow through their love and guidance is so heartwarming,” she said. “Being able to share in silly moments and laugh about the similarities and differences helps keep our connection strong through the chaos our active lifestyles create. Family is everything.” Do you know a family that has an interesting story to share or who owns a business and might like to be featured in the magazine? Let us know! Send an email with the contact information to dwykowski@bestversionmedia.com.
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
AUGUST 2021
11
CHARITY SPOTLIGHT
1 Year = 365 Opportunities — Volunteer! By Jan F. Hawkins
VOLUNTEER PRINCE WILLIAM PROGRAMS
“Building a stronger community by connecting volunteers with opportunities to serve.” That’s the mission statement of Volunteer Prince William, the “volunteer central” for the greater Prince William area. Through numerous opportunities in the community, a volunteer can help a child learn to read, improve our environment, collect food for area food banks, provide companionship to an elderly citizen, and much more.
Volunteer Connections Volunteer Prince William’s website (www.volunteerprincewilliam.org) lists thousands of volunteer opportunities posted by community partners. Anyone looking to volunteer can create a free account, then browse through the opportunities. When an opportunity of interest is viewed, click “Respond” and an email is sent to the contact person with that organization letting them know of someone’s interest.
Since 1981, Volunteer Prince William has partnered with local agencies to mobilize volunteers and resources to provide solutions for critical issues in our community. Through their programs the agency promotes volunteer management best practices; sponsors the Volunteer Coordinators network; hosts an annual volunteer recognition ceremony; publishes a weekly Call to Action column; provides outreach to registered volunteers through social media outlets and facilitates connections with organizations, businesses and clubs to meet community needs.
12
AUGUST 2021
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
A weekly “Call to Action” column advertises the latest volunteer opportunities furnished by volunteer coordinators in the community. The column is published Fridays and uploaded to the website and Facebook. Volunteer Prince William also publishes volunteer opportunities on social media through Facebook and Instagram. Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is open to those age “55 or better” in greater Prince William who want to get involved in the community. Volunteers help with delivering Meals on Wheels, driving veterans/spouses to local medical appointments, supporting staff at the two UVA Health medical centers in Manassas and Haymarket, supporting food rescue, helping at the two senior centers in greater Prince William and much more.
Volunteer Prince William recently partnered with Veterans Connect, which recruits veterans to drive elderly veterans to medical appointments. Interested volunteers from greater Prince William are automatically referred to Volunteer Prince William. Volunteers are needed for all RSVP opportunities. Some volunteer opportunities require the individual successfully complete a background and/or driving record check. For more information, contact Jan Hawkins at 703.369.5292, ext. 307 or email jhawkins@volunteerprincewilliam.org.
DISASTER SERVICES
Volunteer Prince William, working under the direction of the Prince William County Office of Emergency Management, deploys volunteers when and where they are needed most to help communities during disaster recovery. Resources are matched to unmet needs in an effort to help residents reach post disaster stability. Volunteers are an integral part of disaster recovery. We provide basic training, plus volunteers also bring important skills to teach others how to prepare for and mitigate the effects of disasters. Volunteers are continually needed to strengthen outreach, education, and services in the community.
payable at intake. Cash (exact amount only), money order or credit card is accepted. Checks are not accepted. A credit card can only be used by paying through the online payment form located on Volunteer Prince William’s website. ACS intake interviews are conducted by telephone on weekdays only, 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, contact Shelley Tibbs at 703-369-5292, ext. 316 or email stibbs@volunteerprincewilliam.org. Un-Trim-a-Tree Un-Trim-a-Tree is a holiday program serving local children and senior citizens in need in the greater Prince William community. In 2020, Un-Trim-a-Tree served more than 2,000 children and 292 seniors. To ensure that all children are treated equally, each child is provided two gifts, valued at no more than $50-$75 per child. Senior Baskets usually include card games, crossword puzzles or other suitable activities as well as treats. Hand cream, warm socks, throws or wraps are also popular. Baskets are delivered to Meals on Wheels and Agency on Aging clients. Please stay tuned to www.volunteerprincewilliam.org for more information on Un-Trim-a-Tree as the holidays get closer.
Volunteer Prince William offers programs such as Ready Bingo, Disaster Jeopardy and Recipes for Disaster. Disaster Jeopardy will be held at the Haymarket Gainesville Library Monday, Sept. 13 at 7 p.m. Please call 703-792-8700 or visit the online events calendar at www.pwcva.gov/department/library to register. For more information on Disaster Services, contact Claudia Calderon at 703-369-5292, ext. 303 or email ccalderon@ volunteerprincewilliam.org. Alternative Community Service Program Referrals for Alternative Community Service (ACS) are made from the 31st General District Court and PWC probation offices; fees are paid by the county. Cases from other courts, jurisdictions or probation offices, as well as self-referrals opting to perform ACS prior to conviction, are subject to a fee of $100,
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
AUGUST 2021
13
UVA Health Now Sole Owner of Novant Health UVA Health System Growth Will Help Expand Access to Highly Specialized Care, Innovative Clinical Trials Submitted by UVA Health UVA Health has become the full owner of Novant Health UVA Health System, a Northern Virginia regional health system previously owned by the two institutions through a joint operating company. Expanding the scope of UVA Health – which now has more than 1,000 inpatient beds throughout Virginia – will provide more opportunities for patients to access clinical trials examining potential breakthrough treatments and better support highly specialized care for patients across Virginia. “As our academic health system expands throughout Virginia, we are able to provide the full range of primary
and subspecialty care for patients throughout the Commonwealth,” said K. Craig Kent, MD, UVA Health’s chief executive officer and UVA executive vice president for health affairs. “UVA Health will be able to provide greater access to cutting-edge therapies and clinical trials that can lead to better treatments for all in the years to come.” UVA Health now has 100 percent ownership of all the facilities and assets that were formerly part of the joint operating company, including an integrated network of outpatient services and the following hospitals: • Culpeper Medical Center • Haymarket Medical Center • Prince William Medical Center Patients in Culpeper and Northern Virginia will benefit as UVA Health builds on the framework established over the past five years through the joint operating company to expand the range of available services, Kent said. “We are so excited about this new relationship and the opportunity to serve even more patients throughout Northern Virginia and Culpeper,” he said. “Working together with the excellent team already in place, including our employed and independent physicians, we are looking forward to creating a new vision for healthcare in Virginia.” For patients living in Culpeper and Northern Virginia, UVA Health’s new scale will mean streamlined access to comprehensive care, including the No. 1 hospital in Virginia as ranked by U.S. News & World Report. “This relationship will help patients throughout the region more easily benefit from our high-quality care, the latest technology, groundbreaking research and clinical trials,” Kent said. “By expanding our health system’s footprint, it will also provide us with more opportunities to fuel our teaching mission, which will benefit patients for decades to come by training the next generation of healthcare providers.” “The expansion of UVA Health aligns with our mission to serve residents throughout the Commonwealth with outstanding patient care,” said Jim Ryan, president of the University of Virginia. “My thanks go to Dr. Kent and his team for their leadership and all those at UVA Health who work every day to keep our community healthy and vibrant.”
14
AUGUST 2021
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
PET CORNER
Sponsored by A Dog’s Day Out
Introducing: Nala
The Hernandez family welcomed 4-year-old Nala into their family. The rescue pup is a silly and happy dog!
We want to feature yo u r p e t s ! Collected by Marianne Weaver Did you adopt a pet during quarantine? Or have you shared your home with a four-legged roommate for years? We want to feature our readers pets! Send a high-resolution photo to mweaver@bestversionmedia.com and tell us a little bit about your furry (or not-so-furry) friend.
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
AUGUST 2021
15
KIDS CORNER
NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLAR:
Sophia Evanisko
By Marianne Weaver
Evanisko was the middle hitter on the Thomas Jefferson High School varsity volleyball team. She was the president of Russian Culture Club, vice president of the Russian Honor Society and a representative in the honor council, where she facilitated meetings between students and teachers after honor code violations. Her favorite subject was computer science.
Sophia Evanisko, a 2021 Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology graduate, was awarded a $2,500 National Merit Scholarship and will attend Texas A&M at College Station, double majoring in computer science and electrical engineering. “After I took my preliminary SAT (PSAT) in 10th grade, I found out that the semifinalists of the National Merit Scholarship are based solely on the scores from the PSAT test administered in 11th grade,” she said. “In 11th grade, after I received my test scores, I had to wait around six months to see if I made the cutoff to become a semifinalist. Each state has a different score required to be a semifinalist and Virginia has one of the highest in the nation. I only barely made the cut.”
16
AUGUST 2021
because I was accepted into both their engineering and school-wide honors programs,” she said. “Plus, they are giving me around 36 credits for my AP classes, so I basically have one year of college completed already.”
The award earned her automatic admission to Texas A&M’s honor programs and honor’s dorms. “I am attending Texas A&M because of the scholarships they offered me, their great engineering and computer science departments, their internships, and
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
“Programming is a lot like a puzzle,” she said. “You have to think pretty creatively and tackle problems from a different angle, which always keeps me really engaged.” Before moving to Texas, she plans to hike the Shenandoah with friends, catch up on her science fiction reading list, and spend some quality time with her parents.
NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLAR:
By Marianne Weaver
Avik Rao
Avik Rao, a 2021 Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology graduate, was awarded the National Merit University of Maryland Scholarship. “This scholarship will help further my education by allowing me to attend the University of Maryland at a lower cost - the cost of college is extremely high, especially as an out-of-state student, so any amount I can put toward paying it off is incredibly helpful,” said Rao, who will major in computer science. “UMD has an incredibly strong, nationally ranked computer science program, and it’s really close to home - pretty much only an hour’s drive away,” he said. “Staying near the D.C. area is also really enticing because of the many enticing career opportunities during school and after graduation.”
Rao was involved with a handful of different high school clubs, which tended to evolve with his changing interests. He was in the Computer Security Club with three teammates who played online capture-the-flag competitions involving complex cybersecurity problems. During his freshman and sophomore years, he was a member of the CubeSat club, which planned on launching a satellite into space. “From time to time, I’d visit the chess club to play chess with friends and improve my skills at the game. I also had an internship during summer 2020,” he said. “Most of my free time went into programming personal projects and learning new concepts in subfields of computer science.” His most memorable high school moments occurred before COVID.
“Designing a robot and putting it to competition in freshman year for our Design and Tech class was a really fun experience,” he said. “Spirit Wars during homecoming were always an absolute blast, as were the homecomings themselves. Even summer school before sophomore year is one of my favorite memories, where I experienced school in what felt like a completely different attitude and environment.” This summer, he plans to work on some personal projects to maintain his programming skills. “But,” he said, “I’m also taking the time to learn life skills like cooking!”
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
AUGUST 2021
17
Summer Reflections:
PAST, PRESENT and FUTURE EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR By Claire Johnson Machosky BA, MS, SAS, Book Author
“To develop time management strategies, you need to determine the amount of time needed to complete a task or assignment, and then add 10 percent more time.” -- A Path to Learning and Literacy, p. 38 Whatever you choose to call this past year, it is one for the history books; one that has changed our lives and will continue to impact our future. For me, this year of virtual socializing culminated with the online Educators Rising conference. This is a program for high schoolers interested in becoming teachers; Phi Delta Kappa, an international organization for teaching professionals, sponsors Educators Rising. I accepted the challenge and had the opportunity to serve as a virtual judge and presenter at the conference.
Learning new technical skills, I was enlightened after interviewing 16 high school students from around the nation who are interested in administrative careers in education. These students shadowed an administrator for eight or more hours, interviewed him/her, produced a video, and finally appeared for a personal interview before a panel of judges. The students were poised, knowledgeable and enthusiastic about their future and ours. I was impressed! Listening to the candidates assess their experience I heard repeatedly the need for better time management. So, from their insights I found my topic for this month. Time management is all about planning! For some people it means making a list, while for others it means putting an event on the calendar or in their phone. Is that really time management? Let’s reflect on that! Did you plan a summer getaway or maybe a picnic? Think of all the steps it took to make it happen. Details, details, details! All that time and attention was part of your time management! Here are a few items to help you analyze the process - setting a date, extending invites, identifying needs, organizing materials, setting things in motion, enjoying the event(s), and of course, the wonderful feeling of accomplishment! Now, take that time-management process and explain it to your children and help them plan and apply those same principles to back-to-school preparations. School will be opening soon, and kids need to understand how to manage their time and find that sense of accomplishment. Gallup Polls have indicated that the atmosphere at home is the most important factor in student success. Parents: focus on giving your children the organizational and planning skills that will guide and direct them this school year. Shopping for school supplies – that’s the easy part. Creating the atmosphere for successful studying is the challenge. Strike up a conversation and jointly discuss – where to study, best time to do homework, internet access, computer tune-up, study resources, schedules, other commitments and activities. These topics must be explored, scheduled, and be part of
18
AUGUST 2021
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
your child’s time management: first for starting school, and then following a daily and weekly routine to keep current with the academic demands of studying. Listen to your children! Help them take ownership of their schedules and their schoolwork! Remind them of the importance of always keeping up with their schoolwork. This coming school year holds the promise of tomorrow. In most cases students and teachers will be back in classrooms for interactive learning, yet virtual learning offered certain insights and changes in teaching and learning styles. Be prepared for the process of transitioning back to the classroom to present certain nuances. It will be an exciting year! Today is the time to plan a well-managed and successful year! Here are some suggestions to get you started with planning and time management. Answer the following questions: » Did I establish a realistic work schedule?
» Do I have a comfortable work area? » When will I be doing my homework? » What supplies do I need? » Do I have an Agenda Book or Assignment Pad? Just as I used this column for reflecting, enjoy using the remainder of your vacation time to reflect on good memories and plan for success. A reminder that I will be at Fair Oaks Mall on the lower-level Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays between August 6 and September 6th to talk about “How to Study” and to offer my book, “A Path to Learning and Literacy,” and additional Study Smart materials for sale. I hope to have the opportunity to meet you at the mall. Claire Johnson Machosky BA, MS, SAS Parent and Educator is dedicated to helping all children learn to study and succeed. Claire can be reached cmachosky@comcast.net.
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
AUGUST 2021
19
CALENDAR of EVENTS Event information may be out of date due to the COVID-19. Confirm details with event organizers.
Saturday, Aug. 28
HOUSE OF MERCY’S 15TH ANNIVERSARY FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL
@ 8170 Flannery Court, Manassas Enjoy the best food Northern Virginia food trucks have to offer along with raffles for prize baskets. Basket collection themes include baking, family movie night, family game night, wine night, teachers, ice cream, wedding, baby, Christmas, Fall/Halloween, arts and crafts and more. Pay as you eat. This is a pet-free event, excluding registered service animals. Time: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. • Cost: Pre-registration is free and highly encouraged. Each preregistered family will receive 10 free raffle tickets. houseofmercyva.org Saturday, Sept. 1
CASA EVENING UNDER THE STARS FUNDRAISER
@ Fox Chase Manor, 8310 Chatsworth Drive, Manassas Formal dinner dance supports CASA who provides advocates for abused and neglected children in Prince William County and some other local areas. Time: 6:30 p.m. – 11 p.m. • Cost: Tickets begin at $200 casacis.org
20
AUGUST 2021
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
Saturday, Sept. 11
WARRIOR BIKE RIDE
@ The Farm Brewery at Broad Run, 16015 John Marshall Hwy., Broad Run This event supports our nation’s wounded, ill and injured service members through the services provided by the nonprofit organization Willing Warriors. Many of them will be participating in the event either as riders, volunteers or part of the crowd along the road cheering the riders on. Many active duty and veteran service members may also be participating. Time: 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. • Cost: $30-$70 bikereg.com/warrior-ride Saturday, Sept. 18
2021 OFFICER DOWN MEMORIAL RIDE
@ Bull Run Harley-Davidson, 9321 Center Street, Manassas Sponsored by the Officer Down Memorial Page (www.odmp. org), this event brings together hundreds of law enforcement motorcycle enthusiasts and supporters from around the country to pay tribute to America’s fallen heroes and raise awareness of line of duty deaths nationally. All proceeds support ODMP’s mission of remembering the fallen. If you can’t join us in person that day, you can be there in spirit -- register for the ride as a Spirit Rider and honor fallen law enforcement heroes from wherever you are! Time: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. • Cost: $30-$35 www.officerdownmemorialride.com
Sunday, Sept. 19
OUT OF THE DARKNESS MANASSAS WALK
@ 9201 Center Street, Manassas The Community Walks, held in hundreds of cities across the country, raise awareness and much-needed funds for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, which strongly sends the message that suicide is preventable, and that no one is alone. Time: Registration begins at 10:30; event runs noon – 2 p.m. Cost: Registration is free chair.manassaswalk@gmail.com Saturday, Sept. 25
JAZZ ON THE LAWN
@ 6740 Fayette Street, Haymarket This is an evening of jazz, dinner, gourmet desserts and togetherness to raise funds in effort to end homelessness among families and pregnant women, and to give babies caught in the cycle of homelessness a good first start and a safe home. Music will be provided by the one and only Black Market Band. Time: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. • Cost: $45 • carriedtofullterm.org Saturday, Sept. 25
CARS, PUPS & PINTS
@ Rockwood VA, 7505 Iron Bar Lane, Gainesville On-the-spot adoption as well as donation collection for the Prince William County animal shelter. Shirts will be available with all proceeds going to the shelter as well. Family and pet friendly. Cost: Free • facebook.com/events/268162421666292
Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 25, 26
2021 TANK FARM OPEN HOUSE
@ 13906 Aden Road, Nokesville The event will showcase 50 vehicles on display with an additional dozen that are demonstrated throughout the weekend. Among the vehicles on display are more than 100 living historians who bring the event to life. Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. • Cost: Free Pre-register at www.americansinwartime.org/news/ events/event-registration Sunday, Sept. 26
7 TH ANNUAL LAKE JACKSON VFD CHARITY CAR SHOW
@ 2 Silos Brewing, 9925 Discovery Blvd., Manassas This is the 7th annual charity car show. Money raised will be donated to support Childhood Cancer Research. Time: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.; judging starts at 11 a.m.; awards will be at 2 p.m. • Cost: Free • ljvfd.com Friday, Oct. 1
SWEET JULIA GRACE FOUNDATION CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT
Save the date! More information coming soon. www.sweetjuliagrace.org
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
AUGUST 2021
21
ASK THE LIBRARIAN
Summer Reading Challenge By Tammy Hinkle, Librarian The beginning of the school year is quickly approaching, but there is still time to enjoy summer reading. Here are 25 fun ideas to get your child to read: 1. Read a book about your favorite TV/movie show/character 2. Have the same food that the character does in a book 3. Read to a stuffed animal or pet 4. Read about animals/sea creatures then visit a zoo or aquarium (in person or virtually) 5. Read to someone on the phone/ Zoom/Facetime 6. Swap a book with a friend- then host a book club 7. Make a blanket fort and read an adventure story 8. Read in a funny voice 9. Tell someone about the story you read by acting out a scene 10. Read outside under the stars 11. Write an email to the author of the book you just read 12. Read a kid’s magazine
13. Read by the pool 14. Read outside under a tree 15. Read a fairy tale while dressed as a prince or princess 16. Read under the covers with a flashlight 17. Read a graphic novel, then draw your own version of the book 18. Listen to an audiobook in the car 19. Read a book with a friend- take turns reading a page 20. Read in your PJs 21. Pile blankets and pillows into an empty bathtub and read 22. Make a hideout in a closet and read with a flashlight 23. Draw a scene from your book on the driveway using chalk 24. Read a cookbook and make something 25. Read whatever makes you happy!
Now none of this will work if they don’t have any books. They can’t read what they don’t have access to. So … take them to the bookstore and let them select a new book. Make a trip to a used bookstore and enjoy going through the stacks and stacks of books. Go to the library and walk out with an armful of books. Download a reading app. Buy the eReader. Get the audiobook. Make sure that your house is print rich… books, books and more books. But remember that reading should never be a chore, it should always be presented as a gift.
Happy Reading! Follow me on Twitter: Buckland Mills Elementary School @hinkle_tammy
22
AUGUST 2021
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
AUGUST 2021
23
2665
