Bull Run Mountain Neighbors - January 2020 by sweetbaypublishing

JANUARY 2020

The Moore Family Motto:

God, Family, Football ALSO INSIDE: Young Entrepreneur Autumn Takes the “Kakes” - pg. 16 Alvey’s Feliz Navidad Party - pg. 22 Get a Book at the Little Free Library - pg. 14

Cover photo by The Little Photo Shop An exclusive magazine serving the neighborhoods of Piedmont and Dominion Valley

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

JANUARY 2020

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

PUBLICATION TEAM Publisher: Michael & 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 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.

Happy

New Year! As the new year begins (is it really 2020??), I find myself looking back at the evolution of this magazine. When we started, Michael, Debbie and I looked to our friends to feature in each issue. With the promise of some fantastic family photos, we’d ask—sometimes beg—our first families to allow us to tell their stories to their neighbors. I am so grateful for those first families who took a chance on us! We’ve come a long way! I’m not so worried about “finding” families anymore. Our feature families recommend their friends and colleagues. Our readers—my neighbors—send us emails suggesting stories: non-profits making a difference in the community, kids excelling in sports and academics, scout projects, neighborhood get togethers, community activities, …

Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2020 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

And we love ALL of it!! Please keep sending those emails. Let me know if you’d like your family featured on the cover. If you’re volunteering, tell me about it. And your kids – please keep telling us about their accomplishments. We want to feature all of the good things happening in our neighborhood.

Marianne Weaver BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

JANUARY 2020

EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS COLLEGE PLANNING Your College Planning Coach Luanne Lee 703-928-9036 www.ycpcoach.com | luanne@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!

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

EDUCATION Minnieland Academy and The Merit Schools Kristi Redwine, Academy Director 703-753-7480 | www.minnieland.com Minnieland Academies and The Merit Schools provide engaging educational experiences for infants through school age children that meet their emotional, physical, social and intellectual needs. Our variety of programs seeks to develop all aspects of a child’s well-being, as we provide a variety of options for learning not only based on the age of the child, but also on his or her learning style, maturity and developmental stage.

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

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

JANUARY 2020

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

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!

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

FOOD The Rail Stop Tom Kee 540-253-5644 | www.railstoprestaurant.com Tom Kee passed the Chef’s course at L’Academie de Cuisine in Bethesda and later worked at D.C.’s finest restaurants, including Le Pavillon, Restaurant Nora and I Ricchi. Settling in Virginia, Tom partnered with actor Robert Duvall to open The Rail Stop in the Plains, eventually gaining exposure on Oprah Winfrey, the Food Network and David Letterman. An Open Table Diner’s Choice Winner, The Rail Stop offers contemporary American cuisine in a country casual setting.

HGBACORNER

By Doug Burum, President

The members of HGBA would like to invite all local businesses to our next meeting, hosted by the House of Mercy (8170 Flannery Court, Manassas) Tuesday, Jan. 21 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. for some light refreshments and networking. WHY JOIN HGBA? • Networking - Find new business 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. LEARN MORE ABOUT HGBA: Download the Wild Apricot Member app use: Login hgbaguest@hgba.biz Password hgba1234 Visit hgba.wildapricot.org

HEATING, COOLING AND PLUMBING Appleton Campbell Featured Employee: Nelinda Evans 540-347-0765 | appletoncampbell.com “I work with the best team. I see our Techs brainstorming with each other everyday, our Customer Service staff learning from each customer interaction, and witness Management constantly looking for ways to improve the customer experience, as well as trying to find ways to make this the best place to work. Very blessed to be a part of all this.” Nelinda Evans, Human Resource Coordinator. Appleton Campbell is Class A Licensed and insured. To learn more please visit appletoncampbell.com

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.

MORTGAGE LENDING Access Financial Mortgage Corporation John R. Clark Jr. - Partner / Sr. Loan Officer 703.408.4648 | O: 240-547-0276 jclark@accessfmc.com John has more than 15 years of experience in the residential mortgage industry - all in the mid-Atlantic region of the USA. His background with all types of mortgage lending companies allow him to offer his clients maximum flexibility, options, and the lowest pricing possible. John skillfully relays complex concepts to consumers in an easy-to-understand manner. In addition, John provides all types of traditional and non-traditional styles of financing as well as alternative commercial funding. He is licensed in VA, MD, DC, FL.

OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES Moore Designs & Outdoor Living Jonathan Moore 703-409-9887 www.mooredesignsnova.com

PAINTING Dave and Lynn Forman CertaPro Painters® of Prince William www.certapro.com Dave and Lynn are local neighbors and owners of CertaPro Painters® of Prince William. A family-owned company, they know you’ve invested a lot in your home, and that it’s important to choose painting professionals to complete your interior and exterior projects. Their team will create a customized project plan, complete your project on time and treat your home with care. You can start with a free online estimate at certapro.com.

REAL ESTATE Delaney Real Estate Team - RE/MAX Gateway Roya Delaney 240-505-2544 - Cell 703-754-1700 - Main 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.

We are a family-owned small business that builds big ideas for our customers. We are a Class A contractor holding an RBC Classification. Licensed and Bonded, we are a full design and build firm specializing in decks, patios, porches, fireplaces and pits. We also do interiors, roofing and siding. Check out our reviews on Angies List and Home Advisor and call for a free estimate.

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.

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

JANUARY 2020

RESIDENT FEATURE

The Moore Family Motto:

God, Family, Football By Marianne Weaver | Photos by The Little Photo Shop John Moore was born in Philadelphia and brought his allegiance to all Philly teams with him when his family moved to Fairfax in 1988.

“We were both so excited and nervous about making the shift from friends to dating,” she said. Then they took in a football game – Redskins vs. Eagles. Redskins won.

His wife, Nisa, born and raised in Fairfax, is a diehard fan of all Washington sports.

“It was our tradition to go every year as friends but that year, things changed,” said Nisa.

John moved into her neighborhood and the two forged a fast friendship that lasted throughout high school.

FROM FRIENDS TO FAMILY John proposed on Christmas day.

They parted ways after high school—she went to Virginia Tech, he joined the Army. After separating from the Army, he moved to California to pursue his dream of becoming a professional wrestler. In 2002, both returned to Northern Virginia and started bartending together.

“It’s our favorite holiday!” said Nisa. “We were opening presents. The twins, Tyson and Addyson, were 3 months old, so we were in between bottles, diaper changes, and crying. John told me there was one more gift in the cabinet. When I turned around, he was on one knee and of course I said yes.”

JANUARY 2020

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

They were married May 26, 2012, in Corolla, N.C. Nisa said she’ll never forget the family speeches. “My sister, Nicole, is so shy and she did a Nisa/John version of Fresh Prince of Bell Air,” she said. “And John’s brother, Jason, who is a musician, gave a heartfelt speech. It was so unexpected and loving.” LIFE IN PIEDMONT Back in 2013, The Moores were in the market for a single-family home in northern Virginia. “We went to a friend’s house for a fight night and fell in love with the neighborhood and put an offer on a house the next day,” said Nisa. “We all love it and feel we have found our home with great friends, great neighbors, and a church we love.” John owns a construction company—Moore Designs & Outdoor Living. Nisa earned a bachelor’s degree in business from Virginia Tech and a master’s in supply chain and logistics from Michigan State. She is a vice president at General Dynamics Information Technology. She spends her spare time advocating for safer beauty at Beautycounter.

The kids, Addyson and Tyson, are in the fourth grade at Mountain View Elementary. Addyson is in the chorus. She has taken kickboxing classes for four years, gymnastics for three years, and has played basketball for two years. She said her favorite subjects are art and history. Tyson has played football for six years, basketball for two and has taken kickboxing for four years. His favorite subjects are math and PE. Both kids are learning to play guitar. “Addyson is an amazing artist and singer,” said John. “Tyson has an amazing memory and can tell you the stats of any football player.”

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

JANUARY 2020

Nisa said she has met many friends through the “bus stop crew.”

Addyson and Nisa were happy; John and Tyson were disappointed.

“At the end of the school year, the parents get together to spray water guns at the kids getting off the bus,” she said.

But not all time-off is for recreation. The family attends Park Valley Church and is active in the Women’s Center. They recently answered a call to action to provide clients with mental health counseling, educational workshops, and advocacy programs for survivors of domestic and sexual assault.

TIME OFF “We have been lucky enough to support each other’s championships with the Eagles Super Bowl win, Capitals Stanley Cup and the Nationals World Series,” she said. John coaches Tyson’s flag football team every spring and is also coaching Addyson’s Basketball team. “It is very important to me to watch kids’ confidence grow through sports,” said John. They attended their first professional game as a family to see the Wizards and the 76ers play in December. The Wizards won.

JANUARY 2020

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

Nisa sits on the council for GDIT’s Forward (For Women’s Advancement Recognition & Development). Most recently, she organized and spoke at a Women + Tech event. The family vacations in the Outterbanks each summer and travels to Tampa in the Spring to visit Nisa’s “snowbird” parents. “This year, we are going to WrestleMania in Tampa,” he said. WrestleMania is on his bucket list.

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

JANUARY 2020

PET CORNER

Sponsored by A Dog’s Day Out

Compiled by Marianne Weaver

Show us your pets!

To see your pet featured here, send an email to mweaver@bestversionmedia.com. Be sure to include a highresolution photo of your pet, along with his or her name, age and a short introduction.

Here’s Zoey Ready for the Holidays!

Zoey is 7 months old and lives in Piedmont with her three big brothers.

This is Jasper (right), a Norwegian Forest cat. He was ready to celebrate the holidays. This is Harry (left), who has is just chilling! Harry is a Siamese/Ragdoll mix.

Hudson

Hudson Douglas Marsh is a rescue from South Carolina. He is a Chihuahua/Dachshund mix and about 7 years old. He loves to be cuddled and could sleep all day in a comfy lap. His fur is really soft and is the color of brown sugar.

His owners said he is very smart and a good watchdog. He loves to run around the yard barking at dogs passing by. He does not like walks or being confined - he can easily jump over any child safety gate. He loves to sing along with his family or when anyone is playing the piano.

JANUARY 2020

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

Meet the Collingwood’s Dogs: Nugget and Toppy

Nugget is an 18-month-old mini Goddendoodle who loves to play fetch with a ball, bury treats in blanket, the couch, purses … He has a sweet disposition and is always happy. Toppy moved in with the family two years ago when his owner passed away. He was a rescue pet, so his age and breed aren’t definitive. They think he’s a pitt bull boxer mix and about 10 years old. Beth Collingwood says he acts nothing like his appearance: “He is a quiet, gentle dog. He does have bursts of energy where he’ll decide to hop in when we’re throwing the ball with Nugget.”

American Legion Awards Grant to Serve our Willing Warrior Retreat of wounded, injured or ill military personnel by providing them with comfort items not usually supplied by the U.S. government. This year’s grant will enable five hospitalized veterans and their families to stay for one week at the retreat, giving them a break from the hospital environment. Opened in July of 2015, Serve our Willing Warriors Warrior Retreat at Bull Run in Haymarket serves as a temporary homeaway-from-home respite for recovering service members and their families. The retreat provides an opportunity for wounded service members to get away from a hospital environment, while still receiving the care they need. The retreat is located on 37 scenic acres at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers more than 60 activities in a facility specially designed to meet the needs of recovering service members. More information about SOWW, and the Warrior Retreat at Bull Run is available at willingwarriors.org By Irwin Lazar Photo: From L-R, A.B. Brown, American Legion Department of Virginia Commander, Rob Jones, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, Brett Reistad, American Legion National Commander, John Dominick, Vice President/Co-Founder, SOWW, Tom Henning, American Legion Post 1799 SOWW Liaison, David Revill, American Legion Post 1799 Commander For the second time in the last three years American Legion Post 1799 has applied for—and received—a grant of $10,000 from the American Legion Operation Comfort Warriors program to support wounded and disabled Veterans and their families at the Serve our Willing Warriors Warrior Retreat at Bull Run. The American Legion national organization awarded the grant Thursday, Oct. 31. The American Legion’s Operation Comfort Warriors program offers funding to meet the needs

American Legion Post 1799 was founded in 2005 to serve the needs of Haymarket/Gainesville area military Veterans, active duty service members, and the overall needs of the community. With more than 100 members, the organization conducts numerous service and social activities throughout the year, including a bi-annual blood drive, providing support to Air Force units deployed to Afghanistan, providing support to the Battlefield High School Air Force Junior ROTC program in Haymarket, and providing opportunities for students at Patriot and Battlefield High School to attend the annual Virginia American Legion Boys State, and American Legion Auxiliary Girls State civics immersion programs. Membership in the American Legion is open to all currently active, as well as all honorably discharged former members of the US military. For more information about Post 1799 please visit www.alpost1799.org

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

JANUARY 2020

CHARITY SPOTLIGHT

Seeking A Few Good Men By Michael R. Morgan A Few Good Men, LLC, began providing one-on-one mentorship to young men in October 2019. The mentoring program provides young men with experienced mentors who develop a bond with mentees and offer support, guidance and opportunities to help establish and accomplish life goals. “In our organization we want our mentors and mentees to observe, listen and learn from each other,” said Michael Morgan, president. “It takes humility, especially on the mentor’s part, to create space and genuinely learn from a mentee.” The societal impact of not having a male in the household produces alarming results: • 63 percent of youth suicides are from fatherless homes – five times the average. (US Dept. Of Health/Census) • 90 percent of all homeless and runaway children are from fatherless homes – 32 times the average. • 85 percent of all children who show behavior disorders come from fatherless homes – 20 times the average. (Centers for Disease Control) A Few Good Men mentors believe every young male can benefit from a mentor to help navigate through life. Mentors will meet or contact assigned mentees a minimum of onehour weekly. The goal is for mature men to help younger males develop into mature men. For more information, visit www.afgmentoring.net. For information about volunteering, contact Morgan afgmmentors@gmail.com or call (703) 754-3512.

JANUARY 2020

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

SPORTS CORNER

2020 BATTLEFIELD HIGH SCHOOL

BOYS BASKETBALL SCHEDULE Provided by Battlefield High School Games start at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7 vs. John Champe Friday, Jan. 10 @ Osbourn High School Tuesday, Jan. 14 vs. Stonewall Jackson Friday, Jan. 17 vs. Patriot Wednesday, Jan. 22 vs. Gar-Field Friday, Jan. 24 @ Osbourn Park Tuesday, Jan. 28 @ John Champe Friday, Jan. 31 vs. Osbourn Tuesday, Feb. 4 @ Stonewall Jackson Friday, Feb. 7 @ Patriot

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

JANUARY 2020

Little Free Library By Tammy Hinkle Buckland Mills Elementary School is proud to announce that our Little Free Library is now open for business. What is a Little Free Library you ask? Well it is a small structure specifically designed to house books, protecting them from the weather, in order to provide our community with free books. Students, and community members, are encouraged to take a book that they would like to read. Those same books can be returned when done being read. Donated children’s books can also be shared in the Little Free Library if you think someone else might enjoy it too. Although adults can use the Little Free Library, we would like to keep the books appropriate for elementary students. “We hope to continue getting books in the hands of all our Wildcats all the

JANUARY 2020

time,” said Kelle Stroud, principal of Buckland Mills Elementary School. Connor, a fifth grader said, “I think the Little Free Library is great because when school is closed, I can go over and get a book.” This is an excellent way for us to provide books on weekends, holidays, and over summer break. In 2016, LittleFreeLibrary.org, donated the very first structure to Prince William County Schools. Since then, more than 60 schools have received Little Free Libraries for their communities. Schenell Agee, supervisor of library media programs and research in the Office of Student Learning, has written numerous grants over the past five years to acquire the materials to build the structures. The students in C.D. Hylton High School carpentry program have

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

been building most of the Little Free Libraries that we see throughout the county. Several schools have had other organizations, such as the Boy Scouts, donate their structures. The students of C.D. Hylton High School have made various styles over the last few years, including the one installed at Buckland Mills Elementary School. Each year the students work to improve the design. This year’s version included shingles on the roof. One grant enabled Agee to purchase several kits directly from LittleFreeLibrary.org. Those structures were assembled by several county middle school Tech Ed Programs. “It is important to me to enlist the support of our students because these are real world learning opportunities to support their growth,” she said. “Teaching and learning about literacy is

at the heart of the library program, but engaging other stakeholders solidifies ownership for everyone. With some great funding, we are hoping to ensure every Prince William County school has a Little Free Library for the 2020-2021 school year.” When Buckland Mills received their structure, it was painted all white. It has since been colorfully painted to add to its appeal. A ribbon cutting was held on November 1 to celebrate the grand opening. Students from the school’s Battle of the Books Team then filled the library with 30 books for the first time. We were so excited to see that by the end of the long weekend the library was empty and had to be refilled.

Fifth grader and Battle of the Books team member, William, said he loves the Little Free library. “It allows kids to have access to books at any time and putting books in kids’ hands is important,” he said. Lucas added, “For kids whose parents may not have a lot of money, the Little Free Library allows kids to get some books that they can keep at home.” According to Elizabeth Beckman, reading specialist, “The kids are so excited to visit the Free Little Library and find a book to borrow. Many students get out of their cars in the morning and rush right over to it. While students are waiting to be picked up in

the afternoon, they visit the Little Free Library and get a book to read. It has sparked a great desire for our students to get their hands on a book!” Fifth grader Colson said, “I think it is good for kids to try new books.” Idil, another fifth grader added, “Many kids are using it and are learning new words.” Community members are encouraged to donate books directly to the structure. If it is full, please drop your donations off to the front office. We will ensure that as the library gets low, donated books are added for all to enjoy.

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

JANUARY 2020

AUTUMN LY

By Bond Cavazos Realtor® The Bill Denny Group Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.

She is just as sweet as the delicious cupcakes she bakes! Autumn Ly is the 14-year-old young entrepreneur and creator of, Autumn Kakes-a baking company. Her love of baking began when she was only 4 years old, when Autumn and her mom baked banana bread together. When Autumn was in fifth grade she and her friends created a baking club after reading a book series about a group of young girls who started their own cupcake club. The members were supposed to take turns baking and selling their cupcakes. They would then split the profits among the club members. When Autumn realized that she was the only one who was actually following through with the club’s plan she decided it would be better to break off on her own. At the end of seventh grade “Autumn Kakes” was officially born. Autumn has a ton of drive and motivation. After speaking with her, one would guess she learned this by the example of her parents. “I was born in Virginia, my Dad was born in Vietnam and he immigrated here to have a better life,” said Autumn. “I have a little brother. I play soccer and violin. I’m the goalie for my

JANUARY 2020

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

travel soccer team. I have two pet fishes and I am also the treasurer for my school’s National Junior Honor Society.” Autumn Kakes with a “K” was inspired by Autumn’s own uniqueness. “I wanted a business name that was unique and that reflected me,” she said. “I’m different and I like to do my own thing, which is why I spelled kakes with a k instead of a c.” Autumn participated in The Young Entrepreneur’s Business Fair this past summer. She baked and brought 144 cupcakes to the event and left with only seven. The success of the event encouraged her to participate in other local fairs including Haymarket Day. Autumn Kakes set up her cupcake display at The Young Entrepreneur Business Fair’s booth for less than two hours and sold the same amount of

YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT

cupcakes that she did at The Young Entrepreneur’s Business Fair. Some of the flavors of cupcakes Autumn said are most popular are her maple bacon, Reese’s peanut butter, vanilla, chocolate, vanilla almond, vanilla coconut and mango coconut. Autumn also creates custom flavors for her clients at their request. This isn’t just a current hobby for her. She plans to take her talent to the next level one day by opening up her own bakery. “I want to be a baker, I want to have my own bakery,” she said. “My mom said she might retire as a teacher one day and be a baker at my bakery. I want her to have a good retirement. When my business is successful I want her to live with me and I want to take care of her. She always has supported me in my business. Without her teaching me how to make banana bread I might not have discovered my passion for baking.” You may end up seeing Autumn Kakes on the Food Network. Autumn has applied twice to be on The Kids Baking Championship on Food Network television. She made it through an online video interview with one of the show’s producers. Although she has not yet been selected, Autumn

said it has been a great learning experience to try to make it on the show. Her advice to other young entrepreneurs is, “Never give up. If someone doesn’t have faith in you, don’t listen to them. Maybe they didn’t succeed themselves. If you want to do something and you have your mind set on it. Do it! Even if you try and it fails, it’s impossible if you don’t try.” If you’re interested in tasting one of Autumn’s amazing cupcakes she will be at this year’s Young Entrepreneur Business Fair, which is taking place Sunday, June 28. But you don’t have to wait until then to try these sweet treats. You can also place your own order here: autumnkakesorder@yahoo.com. Her cupcakes range in price depending on the flavor, ingredients and décor. They usually start at about $10 for a half dozen. Follow along with Autumn and see photos of the beautiful cakes and cupcakes she has decorated on her Instagram: @autumnkakes. For more information about The Young Entrepreneur Business Fair email youngbusinessfair@gmail.com. We would love to meet your young entrepreneur and to help them grow their idea or business!

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

JANUARY 2020

Sponsored by Out of the Blue

SATURDAY, JAN. 11

New Year, New Wine!

@ The Winery at La Grange, 4970 Antioch Road, Haymarket Start the new year off with a cheers! Join us for a tasting of 12 wines that we think you should be drinking including three sparklings, four whites and five reds. All of the wines will be available for purchase with pick up the following week. With a case purchase, your tasting fee will be credited toward your purchase. Time: Arrive to taste anytime between 1 p.m.-2 p.m. | Cost: $25 wineryatlagrange.orderport.net

TUESDAY, JAN. 14

National Dress Up Your Pet Day

@ A Dog’s Day Out, 6680 Fayette Street, Haymarket Celebrate national dress up your dog day! www.adogsdayout.com

SATURDAY, JAN. 18

Parent’s Night Out

@ Code Ninjas, 7543 Somerset Crossing Drive, Gainesville Drop the kids off for a super fun evening of STEM challenges, puzzles, robotics and more. Ages: 7-14. Pizza and beverages provided. Time: 5 p.m.- 9 p.m. | Cost: $40 per child www.codeninjas.com/parents-night-out/vagainesville

JANUARY 2020

CALENDAR SATURDAY, JAN. 25

IPAWS Fundraiser 2020

of EVENTS

@ Club Eclipse, 5615 Wellington Road, Gainesville This fundraiser supports iPaws, an organization that assists people with veterinarian bills to save their pets. Performances by Skinny Wallace, Native Wind, Something Country and Soul Kitty 6. There will be auctions and a 50/50 raffle as well! Time: 1 p.m. www.eclipsebarandbilliards.com

SATURDAY, FEB. 1

Sweet Julia Grace Bingo Night

@ Heritage Hunt Golf and Country Club, 6901 Arthur Hills Drive, Gainesville This Sweet Julia Grace Charity event is not your typical bingo night. Your ticket to this fun-filled evening includes all-you-can-eat food stations and 11 rounds of bingo. As if this were not enough fun for one evening, there are also live and silent auctions, a 50/50 drawing, a ton of raffles, a special kids korner and so much more! Time: TBA | www.sweetjuliagrace.org

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

FRIDAY, FEB. 7

Night to Shine, Sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation

@ Park Valley Church, 4500 Waverly Farm Drive, Haymarket Night to Shine is an unforgettable prom night experience, centered on God’s love, for people with special needs, ages 14 and older. On one night, February 7, 2020, 655 churches, from around the world, hosted Night to Shine for 100,000 honored guests with the support of 200,000 volunteers! Time: 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Cost: Free, but tickets are required www.parkvalleychurch.com

SUNDAY, FEB. 9

GFWC Dominion Woman’s Club “Girls Gone Bunco”

@ Piedmont Country Club, 14675 Piedmont Vista Drive, Haymarket Come and join the fun, as we raise money for local charities. Time: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. www.dominionwomansclub.org

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 12

Women’s Empowerment Event

@ Out of the Blue, 5005 Wellington Road, Gainesville Dinner Seminar—Take Control of Your Financial Future: Five Things Every Woman Should Know About Investing. Presentation by Kyle Giesting, CIMA, regarding the unique financial circumstances women face. A strong financial strategy is vital. Here’s an opportunity to ensure your financial strategy fits your lifestyle and needs by exploring five money questions critical for women. Dinner will be served. Please bring a guest. Hosted by Deborah Trnka, Financial Advisor, Edward Jones and Kyle Giesting, Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. Time: 6:30 p.m.- 8 p.m. | Cost: Free RSVP by Tuesday, Feb. 4 -- 571-248-8267 or joi.ruther@edwardjones.com

SATURDAY, FEB. 22

Polar Plunge 2020

@ Leesylvania State Park, 2001 Daniel K Ludwig Drive, Woodbridge Prince William Polar Plunge 2020: “Get Chilly with P Willy” at the 2020 Polar Plunge benefiting the athletes of Special Olympics. There will be music, food trucks, games and door prizes. Also, the famous COSTUME CONTEST, so come in your favorite costume. Time: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Cost: $100 polarplunge.com/prince-william

SATURDAY, FEB. 22

Monte Carlo Night – Warrior Retreat at Bull Run

@ Serve Our Willing Warriors Haymarket, 16013 Waterfall Road, Haymarket Monte Carlo Night is one of the year’s biggest SOWW fundraisers. This mission-critical event raises dollars for the Warrior Retreat at Bull Run and sponsors respite stays for wounded, ill and injured service members and their families. The evening will consist of casino games, gaming tables and fundraising activities. All proceeds benefit the Warrior Retreat at Bull Run. Time: 6 p.m.-11 p.m. | Cost: $75 willingwarriors.org

SATURDAY, FEB. 22

Draughts & Laughs: Beer and Comedy Show at The Farm Brewery at Broad Run

@ The Farm Brewery at Broad Run, 16015 John Marshall Highway, Haymarket This is an unforgettable evening of laughs and drinks at The Farm Brewery at Broad Run featuring the finest that comedy has to offer, paired with The Farm Brewery’s fresh signature brews. Tickets are extremely limited for this special engagement and will go quick. Time: Show starts at 8 p.m. Arrive early to grab a drink (or two) and pick your seat. | Cost: $22.85 www.thefarmbreweryatbroadrun.com

FRIDAY, FEB. 28

Coffee Club with Deborah Trnka, Financial Advisor with Edward Jones

@ Out of the Blue, 5005 Wellington Road, Gainesville Informal discussion about current events, the economy and investing in a relaxed setting. Coffee and a light breakfast will be served. Please bring a guest. Time: 9 a.m.-10 a.m. RSVP by Wednesday, Feb. 19-- 571-248-8267 or joi.ruther@edwardjones.com

SATURDAY, MARCH 7

@ Linton Hall School, 9535 Linton Hall Road, Bristow Scrabble ® Scramble is a fun night filled with two games of competitive scrabble, prizes, and raffles. Time: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Cost: Teams register and compete as a team of 4 and pay $120 per team. beaconliteracy.org/supporters/special-events

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

JANUARY 2020

SOLD HOMES Dominion Valley Subdivision

SQUARE FOOTAGE IS ESTIMATED

TOTAL FINISHED ADDRESS.................................SQ. FOOTAGE...........BEDS.... BATHS................ TYPE............... LIST PRICE..... LIST DATE........SOLD PRICE.....SOLD DATE

15108 Jupiter Hills Lane........................4,923............................4.............. 3/1.................... Detached....................$649,900........ 9/23/2019................. $640,000 ...... 11/21/2019 4652 Allens Mill Boulevard...................4,380............................5.............. 4/1.................... Detached....................$569,650........ 9/26/2019................. $540,000 .........12/6/2019 5206 Bonnie Brae Farm Drive..............6,713............................5.............. 5/1.................... Detached................ $1,049,900........ 9/30/2019..............$1,015,000 ...... 11/25/2019 5608 Solheim Cup Drive.......................4,536............................3.............. 3/1...... End of Row/Townhouse......$549,900........ 7/20/2019................. $500,000 ...... 11/22/2019

Piedmont Subdivision

TOTAL FINISHED ADDRESS.................................SQ. FOOTAGE...........BEDS.... BATHS................ TYPE............... LIST PRICE..... LIST DATE........SOLD PRICE.....SOLD DATE

13779 Piedmont Vista Drive................4,606............................4.............. 4/1.................... Detached....................$644,900........ 9/20/2019................. $644,900 ...... 11/18/2019 14364 Chalfont Drive.............................4,207............................5.............. 3/1.................... Detached....................$599,000........ 8/24/2019................. $595,000 ...... 11/15/2019 14707 Corner Post Place.......................2,578............................3.............. 2/2...................Townhouse..................$435,000........ 9/21/2019................. $432,000 ...... 11/22/2019 5908 Amber Ridge Road.......................3,610............................4.............. 2/2.................... Detached....................$639,900........ 5/22/2019................. $603,500 ...... 11/25/2019 6011 Wake Crest Court..........................3,988............................4.............. 2/1.................... Detached....................$600,000........ 9/12/2019................. $597,000 ...... 11/21/2019 6021 Dunnbrook Terrace......................4,380............................5.............. 3/1.................... Detached....................$549,900......10/17/2019................. $560,000 ...... 11/11/2019 6226 Conklin Way....................................1,976............................3.............. 2/1...... End of Row/Townhouse......$379,000........ 9/30/2019................. $370,000 .........12/4/2019 Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the entire real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.

JANUARY 2020

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

KIDS CORNER

Irish Dancing

in the Nation’s Capital

Madison Wilkes

By Marianne Weaver Reagan Middle School student Madison Wilkes claimed a top spot at the Irish Dance Teachers Association of North America (IDTANA) Southern Region Oireachtas that was held at the Gaylord National Resort at National Harbor the first weekend in December. Wilkes, who dances with Misneach Irish Dance Academy, placed fifth out of field of 43 in the girls under 12 traditional set competition. Traditional set dances use choreographies that are passed from generation to generation. Although schools might incorporate tiny nuances, the overall choreography is the same around the world. The Oireachtas (pronounced Uh-ROCK-tus), is a regional championship where dancers compete to qualify for national and world championships. Misneach Irish Dance Academy is a

member of the southern region, which includes dance schools from Alabama, Arkansas, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia and Mexico. More than 2,000 dancers competed at the three-day competition.

BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS

JANUARY 2020

Bull Run Mountain Neighbors - January 2020

Articles inside

Get a Book at the Little Free Library

Young Entrepreneur Autumn Takes the “Kakes”