Bull Run Mountain Neighbors - February 2021 by sweetbaypublishing

FEBRUARY 2021

Full Hearts: The Fuller Family ALSO INSIDE: Cover photo by The Little Photo Shop An exclusive magazine serving the neighborhoods of Piedmont and Dominion Valley

Matters of the Heart: February is American Heart Month Pg. 14 Kids Corner - Girl Scout Troop 74 to Host Blood Drive Pg. 16 Ask the Librarian - Fall in Love with A Great Story! Pg. 20

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BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

FOOD PANTRY NEEDS Please help us feed the hungry in NoVa! WE NEED: fresh vegetables, fruit, dairy and meat (if delivered directly to HoM). 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. Check out the link to our website for an Amazon wish list as well: www.houseofmercyva.org Food Pantry / Donation Center / Thrift Store 8170 Flannery Court, Manassas, VA 20109 Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. info@houseofmercyva.org / (703) 659-1636

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

Dear Readers,

Finally, there is a light at the end of this dark tunnel we all entered nearly a year ago! Our most vulnerable neighbors, healthcare providers and others working on the front lines are getting their COVID vaccinations. Soon, the rest of us also will be able to sign up to receive the vaccine. Spring is right around the corner and, I hope, some outdoor activities will resume. I think we’re on the right track. The high school football season starts this month (we’ve provided the schedule inside). It’s not going to be the traditional season – no more than 25 spectators allowed per game. No halftime shows. But the games will be broadcast online and there will be some pre-recorded music. It’s a step in the right direction.

Debbie and Michael Wykowski, Publishers

Marianne Weaver Content Coordinator

Has your family resumed activities? Let us know! We’d love to feature families getting back into the routine: soccer tournaments, martial arts competitions, musical and theatrical performances, … all of it!! Send an email to me at weaver@bestversionmedia.com.

Debbie and Michael Wykowski,

PUBLISHERS

Marianne Weaver, CONTENT COORDINATOR

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. ADVERTISING: To learn more about becoming a sponsor, contact Michael and Debbie Wykowski at dwykowski@bestversionmedia. com, mwykowski@bestversionmedia.com or 703-203-9130. 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. 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.

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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.

COLLEGE PLANNING Your College Planning Coach Luanne Lee 703-928-9036 | luanne@ycpcoach.com www.ycpcoach.com Luanne is in the financial services industry with a unique position as a Certified College Financial Planning and Funding Specialist. Luanne will create a personal plan to help your children select the right fit schools, graduate in 4 years with a career path they will flourish in, without spending your retirement savings or adding a lifetime burden of debt for you or your children. Your College Planning Coach...Making College Affordable...One Family at a Time!

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.

FAMILY, PERSONAL INJURY AND CRIMINAL LAW Dougherty Tobias Iszard Northern Virginia Law, P.C. Partners: Donna Dougherty, Esq., Ashleigh Iszard and Amy Tobias 703-530-7022 | northvalaw.com Dougherty Tobias Iszard, Northern Virginia Law, PC is operated by three dynamic woman law partners who maintain the goal of providing excellent representation considering each client’s needs. The firm is comprised of six (6) lawyers who utilize a team approach with each and every client insuring that each client receives only the best legal representation. Our lawyers have extensive courtroom experience and are known as fierce advocates. As a result, due to our reputation for zealous advocacy, we are often able to reach quick and beneficial settlements for our clients. Check out our website northvalaw.com for yourself and read testimonials from prior clients.

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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!

HEATING, COOLING AND PLUMBING Appleton Campbell Featured Employee: Melissa Buchanan 540-347-0765 | appletoncampbell.com “In my 20 years in Customer Service Management, this is the first company that stands behind their 100% Customer satisfaction guarantee. They are like family. It’s refreshing to work for people who actually care about you, and go above and beyond to show it.” Melissa Buchanan, Customer Service Manager Appleton Campbell is a Class A contractor with masters in Plumbing, Gas Fitter, HVAC & Electrical. To learn more please visit appletoncampbell.com

HOUSE KEEPING M&F Housekeeping, LLC Jose and Eneida Castillo 703-870-5655 | info@mandfhousekeeping.com www.mandfhousekeeping.com Jose and Eneida have been around for over 20 years - first serving in Houston, Texas - then for the past 4 years in the DMV area. They pride themselves on satisfying each customer and adjusting themselves to each customer’s needs. As they grow, they are still trying to stay small and family-owned and operated to continue to have a personal relationship with their customers. M&F Housekeeping is always looking forward to serving our community.

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 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, state-of-the-art facility where students from pre-ballet to pre-professional train to be technically sound artists in a nurturing environment.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION OmniRide 703-730-6664 omniride.com OmniRide has provided mobility services for Northern Virginia for over three decades. This includes Local bus service in Prince William County, Manassas and Manassas Park; Express service for commuters between Prince William County and employment centers in Northern Virginia and Washington D.C.; and Metro Express which connects riders with Metro Stations. OmniRide also offers assistance to carpoolers and vanpoolers and coordinates a variety of employer services. For more information visit OmniRide.com.

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 the 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 • hgba.wildapricot.org Login hgbaguest@hgba.biz • Password hgba1234 FOLLOW US ON facebook.com/HGBizA • twitter.com/HGBABIZ • hgbabiz.com/linkedin

REAL ESTATE Delaney Real Estate Team - RE/MAX Gateway Roya Delaney 240-505-2544 Cell | 703-754-1700 Office royasellshomes@gmail.com Roya became an award winning and successful Realtor® in a short time. With her passion for helping others, her business background, and her Real Estate investing experience, it’s no wonder! Roya offers honesty, integrity, and full support during all phases of her customer’s transactions. Her negotiation skills, drive and determination get her clients from “Listed” to “Sold!” Whether downsizing or looking for a more spacious home, let Roya’s 16 years of local expertise help you to achieve your Real Estate goals.

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.

BECOME AN EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR

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

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RESIDENT FEATURE

Full Hearts: The Fuller Family By Marianne Weaver Photos by The Little Photo Shop

Christmas is an extra special time for John and Steph Fuller. The new college graduates—George Mason for John; James Madison for Steph—met at an after-work happy hour in November 2005. About a month later, they had their first date. “Our first date was to the movies to see ‘The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’ the day after Christmas 2005,” said Steph.

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Both knew this was “it.” When they were ready to buy their first home, they found a townhouse in Fairfax. John is a Manassas native and Steph was raised in Vienna. Fairfax was middle ground. It was also a decent commute for both, who were working in McLean. Steph was working at Capital One, John was a government contractor. They closed on the house Dec. 17, 2007. “Being so close to Christmas, I knew there was no way we would have the time or financials to decorate the house that year. We had so much furniture to

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buy and other important things to do,” said Steph. “But he knew how much Christmas meant to me and surprised me by going out on his own on Christmas eve and buying a tree and all the trim. Christmas morning, we came downstairs in our brand-new house to celebrate our first Christmas together and to my surprise, all the gifts were arranged under the tree. That one act showed me just how much he got me.” John proposed a few months later, Aug.15, 2008 … Steph’s birthday.

“We had been living together for almost a year and were spending a nice quiet birthday at home before having a big family cookout the next day,” she said. “I had absolutely no idea that he was going to propose that night so we could announce to the family during the cookout.” They married Saturday, Oct. 17, 2009, at The Briar Patch B&B in Middleburg, Va. “We rented out the whole B&B for the weekend and had our bridal party stay there to celebrate all weekend,” said Steph. “We had my 10-year-old cousins speak at our wedding, and our favorite band, Lloyd Dobler Effect, performed for our reception.” MOVING WEST The Fullers moved to Piedmont in July 2016. They were expecting their fourth child and knew they needed to upgrade from the three-bedroom townhome. “I had wanted to move to the Haymarket area for years,” said John. “But Steph kept refusing, until she came to see the area and immediately fell in love.”

In her defense, Steph said as a child, her family traveled through Gainesville on their way to their property at Lake Anna. “Back then, Gainesville was very rural,” she said. “I had no idea how much it had built up. This whole area has really changed over the past 20 years.” It really wasn’t that hard of a sale. The family had friends who had already settled in the Haymarket/Gainesville area. And Steph was researching local schools. “I was determined that our kids would be attending Haymarket Baptist Church Preschool & Kindergarten, which then

started us looking in Haymarket at houses,” she said. “We just love this whole area … the small town feel with access to larger stores and still close enough to 66 to get to family and John’s job.” The Fuller family—Steph and John; Riley 10; Emma, 8; Logan, 5; Zoe, 4; and Cayman, 2 months—have made Piedmont home. “The neighborhood has so many great amenities that we can take part in, including the pools and gym,” said Steph. “We adore our neighbors and are very close with our court. The amount of love and support we have received

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since Cayman was born has been so appreciated and made us feel so loved, especially now during COVID. The meals, gifts, baby sprinkles, kind word, calls and texts have been so thoughtful and appreciated.” All of the Fuller children were born at Fair Oaks Hospital. Riley and Emma both attend Mountain View Elementary School. Riley is in fourth grade and Emma is in second. “We love MVES and all of the teachers and staff there,” said Steph. “I spend so much time volunteering there that we often joke that it’s my second home. The teachers and staff are so nurturing and kind and families are all extremely close. It’s one big happy family” Riley’s favorite subjects are math and science. She is a competitive cheerleader for the Manassas Stingrays and is on their Elite Level 1 team: Comet. She spends eight to 12 hours a week at the gym and trains daily at home as well. “Cheerleading has been such a great sport for Riley. The rigorous gym schedule has helped her learn time management and how important healthy foods are so she can excel at the sport she loves,” said Steph. “She has become so much more outgoing and confident on and off the mat. Even her teachers at MVES have noticed how much this has helped her academically. Now, if she has a question in class, she’s not afraid to ask. She participates much more.”

we encourage the kids to try new foods. Some of their favorites include lentil soup and curry chickpeas in a coconut sauce. John has been a vegan for three and a half years and the rest of the family, though not vegan, strives to eat mostly plant-based products.” Emma is quite the artist and loves to draw and paint. She and Logan play soccer for VSA and John coaches both of their teams. “Playing soccer has taught the kids about teamwork and respect,” said Steph. “John tries to instill core values in his teams and that it’s not just about who can score the most goals. He teaches them to celebrate and support their teammates, always thank the referee after the game, and to work together as a team.”

Steph said Riley also loves cooking.

John won an award for VSA Coach of the Year in 2019.

“She has recently become quite the chef. She made pasta from scratch the other evening with a homemade pesto,” said Steph. “Our family tries to eat healthy and

Logan and Zoe attend Haymarket Baptist Church Preschool & Kindergarten. Logan is in kindergarten and Zoe is in the 3-year-old preschool class.

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“HBCPK has been a blessing to our family,” said Steph. “When we decided to move out of Fairfax, I heard about this magical school called Haymarket Baptist Church Preschool & Kindergarten. After a lot of researching, review reading, and Facebook stalking, I decided then and there that we were moving to Haymarket because my kids simply MUST attend this school.” She said she was hooked when she saw some Facebook photos of the over-thetop valentine boxes. “I knew I had found my people,” she said. “The day we signed our ratified contract I called the school and spoke to Laurie Frasz and begged to get Emma on the waitlist.” That conversation, she said, convinced her that the school was the perfect place for their children to be loved and nurtured by a loving staff. “The school helps make so many fun little memories that they will cherish forever. We absolutely adore each and every

They created an LLC, licensed the company, and set up shop on Facebook. “Four Hearts Full LLC was born and has been an incredible experience,” she said. “I am able to help the family financially while creating my own schedule around the kids. I love being able to create custom gifts for my clients and making their vision a reality.” Steph said John’s woodworking “hobby” has taken the business to the next level: In addition to custom shirts, they now sell his home décor and gifts.

teacher we have had there and everyone else that works there,” she said. “Enrolling the kids there was one of the best decisions we ever made. The children have excelled there and come into MVES with a strong educational background ready to take on elementary school.” Steph is the MVES PTO president and very involved in each of the kid’s classes. She is the room mom in each class and loves helping the teachers out however she can. She is also the owner of Four Hearts Full LLC, which offers custom gifts, shirts and home décor. “My company began back in 2017 when friends and neighbors began asking if I could make them shirts as I have made for my own kids,” she said. “Soon what began as a hobby turned into what could be a new business. John encouraged me to follow my dream and see where this idea could take us.”

John is a government contractor. He has coached youth sports since 2006 including flag football, roller hockey and soccer. He has coached Emma’s and Logan’s soccer teams since they began playing in 2017 and 2018. He also plays on an adult hockey league at Haymarket Iceplex. Recently, he redesigned the family living and dining rooms. He trimmed and painted both rooms and also designed and built the dining table and built-in shelves.

“We are blessed to have family houses in each and spend a great deal of our summers there,” said Steph. “I grew up spending summers in Bethany Beach, and we love that our kids get to have the same experiences. The kids love to spend their days boarding, jumping waves, and building castles. Their evenings are spent watching movies on the beach, taking strolls on the boardwalk, or playing board games at the house.” The days might be long, but the years are short. And, according to Steph, they live by this family motto: Some call it chaos, we call it family.

They share their house with an assortment of pets. “We have three aquatic turtles that Steph gave me as a birthday gift in 2006,” said John. “We also have two beta fish, three rats (Clover, Ruby and Zoe … named BY Zoe), two dogs: Max, a 4-year-old rottweiler, and Kimber, a 4-year-old mix from Lost Dog Rescue.” During their downtime, the Fullers enjoy spending time at Bethany and Rehoboth beaches.

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.

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Alvey Elementary PTO co-presidents Krysta Ardigo and Aleah Forrest leading a monthly PTO meeting via Zoom.

Supporting the PTOs

Top Right: PTO board members hosted a

By Marianne Weaver

drive-thru teacher appreciation breakfast.

Alvey Elementary School PTO The Alvey Elementary PTO conducts meetings on Zoom the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. The email link is sent to parents who are active members. All-day Dominos Fundraisers are scheduled the same days as the PTO meetings. Parents can order pizza for lunch or dinner (or both) by using the code DN3 online, on the app, over the phone, or in person. Alvey will receive 20 percent of the sales. “This has been a challenging year to be engaged but our parents and staff are doing the best we can,” said PTO copresident Krysta Ardigo. “This school year we were fortunate to also host fundraisers locally with Fosters, Moe’s, and Eugene’s. We have also hosted Spirit Wear, Square 1 Art, and Scout Bag Fundraisers. For our students, we hosted a virtual magic show and recently replaced the slide on our playground that was cracked.”

Gravely Elementary School Chipotle Fundraiser Wednesday, Feb. 24 4 p.m.-8 p.m. Support the Gravely Elementary School PTO with dinner at Chipotle (5025 Wellington Road, Gainesville). Tell the cashier you’re supporting the cause and 33 percent of the proceeds will be donated to the Gravely Elementary PTO. To order online, use the code 2AHEX77 in the “promo” field before checkout. Orders placed online or through the Chipotle app for pick-up using this unique code will be counted. Please note: Delivery orders or those placed at a different time/location than the scheduled fundraiser will not count.

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RECENTLY SOLD HOMES Dominion Valley Subdivision ADDRESS........................ TOTAL SQ FT.......BEDS.......BATHS......SOLD PRICE 15100 Heather Mill Ln............... 1,551.................... 2................. 2.....................$389,000 15726 Foleys Mill........................ 9,043.................... 4............... 4/1................$1,159,900 15609 Ryder Cup Dr.................. 7,060.................... 5............... 4/1...................$965,000 5674 Solheim Cup Dr................ 4,329.................... 3............... 2/1...................$530,000 15447 Painters Cove Way.......... 3,096.................... 3............... 3/1...................$484,900 5743 Amelia Springs Cir............ 4,593.................... 3............... 3/1...................$576,000 5502 Arrowfield Ter................... 3,080.................... 3............... 3/1...................$477,000 15453 Painters Cove Way.......... 3,456.................... 3............... 2/1...................$525,000 15910 Paynes Farm Dr............... 4,388.................... 4............... 3/1...................$710,000 15135 Kroll Ln............................ 3,552.................... 4............... 3/1...................$575,000 15483 Fog Mountain Cir........... 4,601.................... 4............... 4/1...................$702,500

Piedmont Subdivision ADDRESS........................ TOTAL SQ FT.......BEDS.......BATHS......SOLD PRICE 14340 Bakerwood Pl.................. 4,682.................... 5............... 2/1...................$537,000 5426 Sherman Oaks Ct.............. 6,508.................... 4............... 4/1...................$750,000 13823 Piedmont Vista Dr.......... 5,385.................... 5............... 3/1...................$705,000 14351 Verde Pl............................ 2,373.................... 3............... 2/1...................$475,000 6029 Erinblair Loop................... 6,097.................... 5............... 3/2...................$740,000 6741 Edgartown Way................. 3,962.................... 4............... 3/1...................$581,000 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.

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Appleton Campbell Welcomes 2021 while

Celebrating 45 Years in Business EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR By Kathy Godfrey, public relations manager, Appleton Campbell

Jim Appleton founded the company in 1976 with his son, James, to take care of the bookkeeping while he worked full-time at the phone company and his 16-yearold grandson, Mike, who worked alongside him in the company’s single service truck. This family-owned business has flourished during the last four and a half decades with now four generations of Appletons working together. Today, the business has grown to include a fleet of service trucks and approximately 90 employees. When asked about the company’s history and evolution, Mike Appleton, now president of Appleton Campbell said, “I remember how my grandfather treated his customers. He always went the extra mile and reminded me often that we were guests in other

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people’s homes. Integrity, trust and quality service were important to him. I am proud that during our growth we have been able to maintain those principles for 45 years.” A core belief at Appleton Campbell is taking care of employees who will, in turn, take great care of its customers. Technicians are continually trained in product knowledge and customer service so they can provide an exceptional experience. Appleton Campbell is proud to be a trusted residential service company providing plumbing, heating, air conditioning and electrical repair and installation needs. This comprehensive approach to servicing its customers has contributed to their tremendous growth over the past 45 years that led to the company moving into a larger facility in 2020.

The new building, located at 285 Alwington Blvd., streamlines communication between the office, technicians, and customers, maximizing response times and dispatch throughout Appleton Campbellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s service area. The new facility also enhances their efficiency of the day-to-day operations. Scott Wayland, vice president, added that there is excitement to look back at where we have been as we look forward to where our team will exceed customer expectations for many years to come. In addition to providing homeowners with essential home services, Appleton Campbell is dedicated to supporting the surrounding community that has also supported them for the last 45 years.

Please visit appletoncampbell.com to learn more about Appleton Campbell. ABOUT APPLETON CAMPBELL Founded in 1976, Appleton Campbell provides plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical service repairs and new installations for residential customers throughout Fauquier, Culpeper, Rappahannock, Loudoun, Prince William, Fairfax, Madison, Orange, and parts of Spotsylvania and Stafford counties in Virginia. Honesty, integrity, and experience are the cornerstones on which Appleton Campbell was built and on which it continues to grow today. Appleton Campbell holds a Class A License with masters in plumbing, heating and air conditioning, gas fitter, and electrical.

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Over the past 17 years, Go Red for Women has funded life-saving women’s research, advanced public health policy, championed closing gender gaps in research and STEM and created a platform for women to address their greatest health risk – cardiovascular disease. Go Red has had a profound impact on women’s health and will continue remove the barriers women face to achieving good health and well-being and continue to be a champion for women and women’s health. To get involved locally visit: DCGoRed.heart.org.

Awareness is critical! Starting at age 20, women should get screened for CVD. Even modest changes to diet and lifestyle can lower risk by as much as 80 percent.

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CHARITY SPOTLIGHT

Matters of the Heart: February is American Heart Month Submission and Photo Courtesy of American Heart Association Monique Acosta House thought her constant exhaustion stemmed from pushing herself too hard at work and in college. But it was much more. An echocardiogram revealed her heart wasn’t pumping as well as it should — she had congestive heart failure. Many people with heart failure can lead full, enjoyable lives when the condition is managed. House followed doctor’s orders, participated in a clinical trial and remarkably rebounded within a year – it demonstrated the benefit of clinical trials to help return House to a stable heart function after her severe diagnosis. Life progressed, House married and took a fast-paced corporate job. Juggling the demands of frequent business travel, though, she lost track of her medication schedule and experienced an irregular heartbeat known as arrhythmia.

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“I was in my 20s and thought I was invincible,” House said. Her doctor changed her medication and got her back on an even keel. Though her heart function dropped, she was still able to live without limitations but not nearly the same as before her diagnosis. When she decided to have a baby a few years later, she struggled to find a doctor who accepted high-risk patients as cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of maternal death in women. Then she dealt with the emotional toll of miscarriage. But in 2003 she finally had a son, Asa, a name that comes from the Hebrew for “Healer.” But her heart struggles continued, and two years later she required an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD). The device can detect an irregular heartbeat and return it to normal. By 2012 she could only work part time, although she hoped regular exercise would help strengthen her heart. In 2016 she was put on a heart transplant waiting list. As she awaited a new heart, House struggled to accept her situation. “It took me totally by surprise, even though I didn’t have a great quality of life,” she said. She received her gift of a new heart in July 2017 and spent 70 days in the hospital struggling with kidney failure and valve issues as a result. She returned to work a year later, staying vigilant to avoid illness or injury. Now 47 and living in Woodbridge, Va., House advocates for more African Americans to participate in research. Research helps ensure the development of new medications and treatments that benefit everyone, especially women of color. “Most of the people in the clinical trial I participated in were white men over the age of 60, but it saved my life,” she said. She also encourages others to develop strong relationships with their doctors and to advocate for their health. Pay attention to symptoms, Monique says, and seek help if something doesn’t seem right – don’t wait. “I trust my doctor implicitly, because he hears me,” she said. “Your doctor should be able to explain everything to you, and if you don’t get answers that educate you and help you understand your health, that’s not the doctor for you.”

Monique Acosta House was constantly exhausted. It turned out she had heart failure — at the tender age of 22. Eventually she needed a heart transplant, and now she advocates for heart health, diversity among clinical trials participants and strong communication between patients and doctors.

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FEBRUARY 2021

KIDS CORNER

Girl Scout Troop 74 to Host Blood Drive March 19 By Adeline Lorenzi, Emily Ray, and Isla Vettickal Girl Scout Troop 74 is a group of nine fifth grade girls. We have been in existence for six years. Our troop crest is the unicorn. Not only does the unicorn stand for the rare find in the friendships we’ve formed, but it also symbolizes the courage we have to spread beauty with words and actions. What’s so exciting is that three girls in our troop have decided to earn the Bronze Award, the highest award that can be earned by Girl Scouts at the Junior level. The Bronze Award is meant to spread the word to educate and inspire others on a topic of our choice. Girls who choose to earn the Bronze Award are required to choose and plan their project and work together to complete the project. For our project we have chosen to hold a Red Cross Blood Drive in our community. Not only can our neighbors participate in this event, but they may also someday need the services the American Red Cross provides.

Three of the Scouts in the troop are working on their Bronze Award—Isla Vettickal, Emily Ray and Adeline Lorenzi. All three girls are very unique yet have many things in common. Isla’s hobbies include cooking, crafting, basketball, swimming, reading, making rap songs and playing piano. In her free time, Adeline enjoys reading, playing video games, golfing, archery, playing piano, drums, or violin and skateboarding. Emily likes gymnastics, tennis, softball, sewing, swimming and playing the piano. When asked why she wanted to host a blood drive, Isla responded, “We chose to do the blood drive as our project because helping people in need means a lot to all of us, especially people who are in a possible medical crisis.” Did you know that every two seconds someone in the United States needs blood? People may need blood for reasons such as cancer treatment, surgeries, long-term illnesses and serious injuries. One blood donor can save up to three lives! Approximately 36,000 units of red blood cells are needed every day in the United States. The American Red Cross provides about 40 percent of blood in the United States, but it is not enough because only 3 percent of eligible people actually donate blood each year. Our area is in shortage of blood donations. Our troop understands the importance for people in need of blood and we hope more people will understand the difference they can make and will decide to become regular blood donors. Another bonus is all blood donations are tested for COVID-19 antibodies and donors are notified of the results. “Donating blood saves people’s lives and it only takes about an hour of their time,” said Adeline. “The donations many different people of all ages, gender and race. We hope having a blood drive in our community will get more people to donate blood because it is convenient and close to home.” We have been excited to work with the American Red Cross to set up an important event that will help save many lives. Our blood collection goal is 47 units, and we hope to get that many donors signed up as soon as we can. If we reach our goal, we have the potential to help save 150 lives! Our blood drive will take place on Friday, March 19, from 1p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Dominion Valley Country Club (DVCC) Waverly Ballroom. We are thankful for Dominion Valley Country Club donating the

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Sponsored by Minneland Academy

space to hold our blood drive and share our mission to save lives. There is parking close to the clubhouse for donors, and they will walk just a short distance to the main entrance of the clubhouse to donate. “I am happy to help with saving lives with this blood drive, and we hope to make it a great experience for donors with bright decorations and little thank you notes,” said Emily. To figure out if you are eligible to give blood, go to the American Red Cross main website. On the top of that web page, you can click on “Give Blood,” and a dropdown menu will appear giving you “Eligibility Requirements” for donating blood as the second option. To sign up to donate blood, please go to: redcrossblood.org/give.html/driveresults?zipSponsor=JuniorTroop74. There, you may choose time slots for donations and will set up an account to sign up and donate. If you have questions, please email us at: girlscouttroop74@gmail.com. We are thankful for your time in learning about us and in considering making a blood donation at our March 19 donation event!.

Do you know a youth with an interesting story to share, a business venture, academic or athletic achievement? Let us know! Send an email with the contact information to mweaver@bestversionmedia.com.

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FEBRUARY 2021

IDENTIFYING THE TASK:

Be Aware, Explain, Ask Questions EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR By Claire Johnson Machosky BA, MS, SAS, Book Author “When children know what to do in preparing and completing assignments their stress level is reduced. Therefore, verbalizing their assignment as part of identifying the task is extremely helpful.” – A Path to Learning and Literacy, A Note to Parents, page 34 Whatever the subject—math, language arts, social studies, and other courses—there is always the project, the assignment, and the test. There are always the WHAT questions: What am I expected to do? What do I need to study? To assure themselves of success, students need to demonstrate their understanding of what is expected. They can do this by asking their parents or their peers to listen while they explain what the assignment requires or what they will be studying for a test. This is verbalizing the assignment and helps with identifying the task. Knowing what to do leads to fully completing an

assignment and achieving excellence. Verbalizing also clarifies expectations. The demands of the assignments and the specific details become clearer. If a student cannot easily describe what he/she is to do, it means something is not clear; the student must go back to the teacher and get clarification. Teachers are more than willing to do this for their students because teachers are committed to helping children find success. Finding this clarity of purpose opens the door to completing the task. Knowing the WHAT of a project or assignments automatically leads one to determine the HOW. Identifying the task leads to identifying the steps to follow in completing the task. When students can confidently explain what is expected, it raises their awareness of details and how to proceed. They know what needs to be done, what tools are needed, how to use those tools to complete the task, how much time is needed, how the final project will be presented, along with how it will be evaluated. This awareness of the stages of completing an assignment or studying for a test promotes the ability to focus, concentrate and complete the specific task—it builds confidence in one’s ability and commitment. The book “A Path to Learning and Literacy” focuses student learning with a section in each chapter entitled Chapter Check Up, which contains Check Your Understanding, Check Your Progress, and a Checklist. Here is the Check Your Progress and the Chapter Checklist for the chapter, Identifying the Task. CHECK YOUR PROGRESS – Apply these strategies to monitor your progress: • Verbalize what is to be done. • Give the specifics of how to do it. • Locate the sources of information that will be used to help you complete the task. • Complete the assignment using accurate information. • Answer all parts of the assignment. • Check your assignment before submitting.

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CHAPTER CHECKLIST Use this checklist to determine if your assignment is complete: • My assignment answers all questions and parts of questions. • I have shown all required work. • I have followed the required format. • My work is neat and legible. • The assignment is on time. • I know the new information I have learned by doing the assignment. If the student has been following the series on How to Study and applying the strategies, he/she should continue to REVIEW progress to date, REFLECT and identify areas to improve and RENEW commitment to school by assembling all the essential learning tools from the assignment pad to web resources. The student should know where and when he/she will be attending classes and doing schoolwork. This month’s Two Stars are to congratulate the student on growing confidence, and improved attention to organization. The Wish is to learn to verbalize the tasks and produce outstanding assignments and projects. It can be done! It is all about learning How To Study! For more information, email cmachosky@comcast.net NEXT MONTH’S TOPIC: PROCESS

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FEBRUARY 2021

Fall in Love with A Great Story By Tammy Hinkle, Librarian I was a classroom teacher for 24 years before I became an elementary librarian. I always loved teaching students how to become readers. So, when a colleague of mine asked why I became a librarian and not a reading specialist, my answer was simple. There is a saying by Anonymous that I have hanging up in my library, “Everyone is a reader. Some just have not found their favorite book yet.” When I was little, my parents were not readers. I don’t ever remember them picking up a book, or even having books in our home. When I was older and able to go to the school library, or the public library, I remember devouring books in a day or two. But I still had not found my favorite. About 20 years ago, I found my favorite! I had no idea I would fall in love with a children’s story, but I did. Every year I shared this story with my students. “Shiloh” by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor was that book. The story takes place in Friendly, West Virginia, in a “little four-room house with hills on three sides.” Marty Preston, an 11-year-old boy, finds a lost beagle he names Shiloh, after the location he finds him. It’s love at first sight for both Shiloh and Marty.

FEBRUARY 2021

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But Shiloh belongs to Judd Travers, a man who is known to abuse his animals. Thing is that the folks in Friendly tend to stay out of each other’s business. When Marty starts to lie in order to protect Shiloh, the situation quickly gets out of hand. How far will Marty go to save Shiloh is just one of the many questions that Marty struggles with. This book led to some great discussions about right and wrong, good and bad, lying and honesty, and when to be a bystander and when to take action. As Marty says, “I look at the dark closing in, sky getting more and more purple, and I’m thinking how nothing is as simple as you guess- not right or wrong, not Judd Travers, not even me or this dog I got here. But the good part is I saved Shiloh and opened my eyes some. Now that ain’t bad for 11.” Although this book was written in 2000, it stands the test of time, making it a modern-day classic for me. Another favorite I enjoyed sharing with my students was “Elvis and the Underdogs” by Jenny Lee. At 10 years old, Benji is small for his age, but he has a huge personality. He was born

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premature and has many health issues, which include a lot of fainting, which makes it hard to make friends. When Benji is told he will be getting a therapy dog he is excited. He never expected a bossy 200-pound talking Newfoundland, named Elvis, to show up. And he was trained to be the secret service to be the president’s dog! The only problem: No one but Benji can hear Elvis talk. This funny story made my students laugh out loud and see that making friends is not as scary as it may seem. My students fell in love with “Fuzzy Mud” by Louis Sachar. This is a mystery-thriller written for kids! Tamera and Marshall have been walking to school together since they were in elementary school, always taking the same route. When the school bully challenges Marshall to a fight, they alter their way home to go through the off-limit woods, and that is when the real trouble begins. They run into mud that looks … fuzzy. A local company has had a mutation of microorganisms they were developing, and they have spread into the nearby woods. The woods that Marshall and Tamera have just entered. Will they make it out safely, or will the Fuzzy Mud change their lives forever?

connections with other students and feels isolated. She always had her grandparents to talk to, but three months earlier, her grandfather passed away. Iris’ grandma is struggling with this loss and describes her mood as a “drizzly November.” One day, Iris’ science teacher introduces the class to Blue 55, a whale who cannot communicate with other whales because his speaks at frequency that is too high for them to understand. Iris is intrigued by Blue 55 and starts working on a way to communicate with him. When she learns that the Sanctuary workers will not use the song she created for Blue 55, Iris and her grandmother begin a journey no one expected. The author, Lynne Kelly, a sign language interpreter, has done a wonderful job of portraying the lives of a deaf person. Iris is not looking for a cure, just a world where she is accepted and able to communicate. This is a wonderful story of acceptance, overcoming grief, and finding out who you really are. These stories have brought so much joy to my life and the lives of my students. Hopefully, you and your child will find a book or two to be your favorite!

Happy Reading! Follow me on Twitter, Buckland Mills Elementary Library @hinkle_tammy

My students just loved “Crime Bitters: My Dog is Better than Yours” by Tommy Greenwald. This is the first book in a fourbook series. In this story, Jimmy is an 11-year-old kid who is interested in crime fighters, vampires, dogs, and definitely NOT girls. So, when his dad agrees to let him get a dog, Jimmy is beyond excited. When the dog, Abby, turns out to be a crimefighting-vampire-dog, no one believes him! This fastpaced, funny story will have your reader giggling and falling in love with Abby just like Jimmy. This year I shared “Song for A Whale” by Lynne Kelly with my fourth and fifth graders. It is, by far, one of the best children’s books I have every read and my students absolutely loved it. Iris attends her neighborhood school where she is the only student who is deaf. She struggles to communicate and make

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FEBRUARY 2021

Novant Health UVA Health System NOTES Prince William Medical Center Welcomes First Baby of 2021 Submitted by Novant Health UVA Health System Novant Health UVA Health System Prince William Medical Center welcomed the new year with the announcement of its first baby of 2021. Ariana Leilani Sandoval Arellano was born Jan. 1 at the Hylton Family Women’s & Children’s Center at Prince William Medical Center. • • • • • • • •

Baby’s name: Ariana Leilani Sandoval Arellano Time and date of birth: 1:43 a.m. on Jan. 1 Baby’s weight and height: 10 pounds, 13 ounces and 20 inches Sex of baby: Female Mother: Lythcy Arellano Father: Carlos Sandoval Family’s hometown: Gainesville, Va. Delivering physician: Eugene Louie-Ng, MD

Ariana has one older sister, 10-month-old Eliana. The family was given gift baskets courtesy of Novant Health Hospital Auxiliary and Novant Health Women’s Institute. For more information about the Hylton Family Women’s and Children’s Center at Prince William Medical Center, visit NovantHealthUVA.org/women.

ABOUT NOVANT HEALTH UVA HEALTH SYSTEM

Novant Health UVA Health System is an integrated network of physician offices, outpatient centers and medical centers providing patients access to advanced, quality care delivered with a personal touch. Founded in 2016, the regional Health System is a partnership between Novant Health and UVA Health System that provides subspecialty care and groundbreaking clinical trials — with the support of UVA Health System — along with urgent and primary care in Virginia. Headquartered in Warrenton, Va., Novant Health UVA Health System is committed to providing quality care close to home. For more information, visit NovantHealthUVA.org or follow Novant Health UVA Health System on Facebook and Twitter.

FEBRUARY 2021

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PET CORNER