Publishers: Michael and Debbie Wykowski
Content Coordinator: Marianne Weaver
Designer: Jody Zipp
Contributing Photographer: Melinda Ratcliff, The Little Photo Shop
March is my favorite month. It’s a month of college basketball and, for a change, my team isn’t terrible. That said, I’ve been a Pitt fan long enough to know that it’s best to set low expectations.
It’s also a month-long celebration of all-things Irish. We’ve got Irish dance performances scheduled at elementary schools, pubs, senior living communities, restaurants and festivals. Mid-month, we’re hosting our annual St. Patrick’s Day party. Every year, we put together an Irish menu, and one of the most popular dishes in soda bread.
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Email: mwykowski@bestversionmedia.com or dwykowski@bestversionmedia.com
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We make three types of soda bread: a very basic recipe from the Ballymaloe house in Ireland, traditional brown soda bread, and this, my family’s recipe:
INGREDIENTS:
• 3 cups flour
• 6 teaspoons salt
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon butter
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 ½ cups milk
• 1 egg
• Caraway seeds to taste.
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Grease a 9- or 10-inch cast iron skillet.
2. Combine all ingredients, then pour into prepared skillet.
3. Bake at 300 degrees for 30 minutes, then another 30 minutes at 350 degrees.
4. Enjoy with some Irish butter or marmalade.
Slainte! Marianne Weaver, CONTENT COORDINATOR Debbie and Michael Wykowski, PUBLISHERSSubmitted by House of Mercy Food Pantry
Please help us feed the hungry in NoVa!
WE NEED: fresh vegetables, fruit, dairy and meat (if delivered directly to HoM).
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, and Thrift Store 8170 Flannery Court, Manassas, VA 20109 • Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. (703) 659-1636 • info@houseofmercyva.org
MarianneWeaver Content Coordinator
Debbie and Michael Wykowski, Publishers
Colvin Floors
Shane Colvin
540-347-8507 | www.colvinfloors.com
251 Broadview Ave., Warrenton, VA
Colvin Floors is a family-owned business specializing in the installation of new hardwood, carpet, Luxury Vinyl Tile and Plank, laminate, vinyl flooring, porcelain and ceramic tile, custom area rugs, stair runners, and sand & refinishing services. Shane Colvin was born and raised in the industry. He benefited from years of experience working with his dad, Henry Colvin. Shane works hard to uphold the Colvin reputation and serve his customers and community with pride and professionalism.
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!
ORTHODONTICS
TEEM Orthodontics
Dr. Madueke Ekoh
703-753-4777 | teemortho.com
Dr. Ekoh’s journey started in Nigeria, obtaining his Pre-Bachelors in Dental Surgery before emigrating to the U.S. He received his Doctorate in Dental Surgery and Orthodontist certificate at Howard University. To keep up with the advances in orthodontic care, Dr. Ekoh regularly attends numerous seminars, and is an active member in several professional associations, including the American Association of Orthodontists. He lives in Haymarket with his wife and four children. “My vision is to make advanced, high quality and cutting-edge orthodontic care available and affordable to everyone. I believe that great orthodontic care should not only improve the smile, but help people experience the joy of living better.”
PERFORMING ARTS
Lasley Centre for the Performing Arts
Kalie Lasley
540-905-2782 | klasley@lasleycentre.com
www.lasleycentre.com
Kalie Lasley is an American Ballet Theatre (ABT) Affiliate
Teacher and the Executive Director of Lasley Centre for the Performing Arts in Vint Hill. Ms. Lasley has an extensive background in dance, including time as a professional dancer at the prestigious San Francisco Ballet. Lasley Centre opened in 2011, growing into a 9,000 square foot, stateof-the-art facility where students from pre-ballet to pre-professional train to be technically sound artists in a nurturing environment.
Esther Biggs, Realtor®
703-927-7297 | esther@estherbiggs.com
Facebook: estherbiggsestatebiz
Esther is a full time Realtor® with Pearson Smith Realty. Esther’s combined experience of 24+ years and her extensive knowledge in interior design, staging, and marketing make her the ideal partner when you are looking to buy, sell, or invest in Real Estate. She brings to the table a listening ear, keen eye for design, and top-notch negotiating skills; additionally, she is one of the best-connected agents in the Region and is an active volunteer at the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors® where she currently chairs the Hispanic Forum of Realtors. Who you work with matters!
Gainesville High School is the 13th High School in Prince William County. GHS welcomed its first students
Monday, Aug. 23, 2021. Built to serve 2,557 students, there are currently 2,181 students enrolled at GHS (13150 University Blvd., Gainesville).
“It’s already hard to imagine a time when Gainesville High School did not exist,” said principal Neil Beech. “The reality is that we’ve covered a lot of ground in just 18 months. Opening a new school, building programs and culture, and providing opportunities for students to grow and compete takes time. It has been a labor of love for so many faculty, staff, students and parents who have accomplished so much already.”
He said students have shown great commitment in during and after-school activities. They’ve seen many firsts: First home games, first wins, first regional qualifications.
“I’m proud of our student athletes and what they’ve accomplished in such a short period of time,” he said. “I’m excited about the future of our programs and the contests in which our students will participate in the coming months and years.”
“The Gainesville cheerleading and gymnastics programs have started out strong in our first two seasons in the Cedar Run District,” said coach Natalie Hackmann. “It has been an honor to coach these teams as they have encountered every moment of growth, victory, and new skills.”
She said the competition team earned a ticket to regionals in the first season. The sideline teams attended NCA camp at Woodbridge High School and the gymnastics team earned all-time program highs in each apparatus at all of their January meets.
Kaden Thomas plans to major in psychology.
Makayla Gustman, “Gus,” plans to attend college and major is sports nutrition and wellness.
Ellie Suhol, varsity captain, plans to pursue a degree in engineering.
“Much of the cheerleading team entered season one with little tumbling or stunting experience,” she said. “In our first two years, we have seen exponential growth with most of our girls gaining tumbling skills and executing stunts competitive with the programs around us. The gymnasts have
paved the way for future athletes in our program with artistry and a work ethic unlike any other. The Cardinal Cheer and Gymnastics families are off to a strong start and we can’t wait to see all they accomplish in the future.”
Last year, the basketball team’s first, they finished the season with a 7-15 record, just missing the district playoffs. This year, they are fighting for third place in the district and will likely double their win total from last season.
“The program has also had some exciting experiences in their young history,” said coach Justin Powers, adding that they went 2-0 at a holiday tournament in West Virginia. “That tournament was highlighted by a game winning 3 pointer at the buzzer by leading scorer Grant Polk.”
The team also played at the Capital One Arena before a Wizards game.
“With only two seniors, Muhammad Itayem and Sean Panjsheeri, on this year’s team the future looks very bright for the Cardinals moving forward,” said Powers.
Sean Panjaherri is currently undecided.
Muhammed Itayem, “Mo,” will attend George Mason University.
Dance team coach Cindy Kilmer couldn’t be more proud of her young team.
“I am beyond proud of what the Cardinette Dance Team has accomplished in two short years,” she said. “Starting a new program is not easy and they have already made a huge impact on our community through youth clinics, game performances, and being great students. We can’t wait to see what year three brings!”
Jason Ritenour, director of student activities, said he looks forward to continuing to build the Cardinal brand and establish traditions for the school, students and community.
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 agent’s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.
By Marianne Weaver
Battlefield High School hosted a special Commitment Ceremony Friday, March 3 to recognize senior student athletes who will continue their athletic careers in college.
Carson Cho Baseball, United States Coast Guard Academy
Cooper Harris Baseball, Frederick Community College
Joey Swekosky Baseball, Marymount University
Jesse Williams Baseball, George Mason University
Hasan Hammad Boys Basketball, Christopher Newport University
Hannah Weber Cross Country, Elon University
Autumn Goldsberry Field Hockey, Shenandoah University
Azalix Rose Football, Fairmont State University
David Smoot Football, Alvernia University
Ronan Cleary Boys Lacrosse, Cabrini University
Grace Patane Girls Lacrosse, Drew University
Football players Brodie Carroll, Damier Minkah and Jayden Perez will continue playing together at Shepherd University.
McKenna Kolasch Girls Soccer, Virginia Commonwealth University
Alex Crown Swimming, George Mason University
Emma Hannam Swimming, Marist College
Camille Spink Swimming, University of Tennessee
Saturday, March 11
TIM TRANT LIVE
@ Heritage Brewing Company, 9436 Center Point Lane, Manassas
For more than four decades, Tim Trant has performed popular contemporary and traditional American and Irish folk songs.
Time: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. • Cost: Free heritagebrewingcompany.com
Saturday, March 11
GREATER MANASSAS
ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE
@ Old Town Manassas
Time: 11 a.m. • Cost: Free
Friday, March 17
@ Sinistral Brewing Company, 9419 Main Street, Manassas
Live Music all day: 1-4pm: Joe Downer, 5-6pm: Tim Trant, 7-10pm: Something Shiny
Food available from Little Lady Grill. Cost: Free sinistralbrewingcompany.com
Saturday, March 18
COOKING AT TRADITIONAL ST. PATRICK’S DAY MEAL
@ Ben Lomond Historic Site, 10321 Sudley Manor Drive, Manassas
Many 19th century Prince William County citizens traced their roots to Ireland. The meals they prepared reflected their Irish ancestry. Participants will be able to prepare and taste traditional Irish dishes in the historic slave quarter at Ben Lomond. Wear appropriate shoes and clothing for the weather. Advanced registration is required.
Time: 10 a.m. – Noon, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Cost: $10 kpawlak@pwcgov.org
Thursrday, March 23
“READY
@ Dominion Valley Country Club –Waverly Ballroom, 15200 Arnold Palmer Drive, Haymarket Learn how you can put your time, knowledge and talent to use volunteering with AARP in Virginia. Help make your community the best it can be while working alongside others who share your passion for service. Meet our talented team of volunteers and discover where you fit. You’re invited to a special Tea and Talk designed to give you a“taste”of volunteering with AARP in Haymarket and Gainesville. Sip on tea and “sample”a variety of volunteer roles (virtual and in-person).
Time: 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. RSVP is required: events.aarp.org/ VolTea03222023 or call 1-877-926-8300
Saturday, March 25
GOLDEN KNIGHTS 5K & FUN RUN
@ Glenkirk Elementary School, 8584 Sedge Wren Drive, Gainesville
Glenkirk PTO hosts the annual Golden Knights 5K & Fun Run. Join us for a healthy family/community event with all proceeds supporting Glenkirk PTO and Glenkirk Elementary School. Run through surrounding neighborhoods and finish the chip timed race at Glenkirk with prizes for top times. Younger participants can enjoy the Fun Run on school grounds. Registration opens in February.
Time: 7:30 a.m. glenkirkpto.org/goldenknights5k
Saturday, March 25
8 TH ANNUAL PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY HISTORY SYMPOSIUM
@ Old Manassas Courthouse, 9248 Lee Avenue, Manassas Topics to be announced. Presentations are a partnership among the Prince William County Historic Commission, Historic Prince William, and the City of Manassas.
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. • Cost: $10 per person dgoldstein@pwcgov.org
April, exact dates to be announced
THE FESTIVAL OF SPRING
@ Burnside Farm
The spring season only lasts about three weeks. Check the website for information and updates. Cost: $16 - $23 www.burnsidefarms.com
Saturday, April 15
NOVA CIDER FESTIVAL
@ Bull Run Special Events Center, 7700 Bull Run Drive, Centreville
More than 25 Cider producers with samples. Local live music on the main stage. Food trucks. The event will take place rain or shine (no refunds).
Time: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. • Cost: $45-$65
(540) 408-3789
Saturday, April 22
6 TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY
@ The Farm Brewery at Broad Run, 16015 John Marshall Highway, Haymarket Tiki Party with entertainment by One Hot Mess, Berlin Calling and fire breathers. Tiki bar, pineapple beer, food trucks.
Time: Noon • Cost: Free thefarmbreweryatbroadrun.com
Saturday, April 22 FALCONRY
@ Wild Birds Unlimited, 7998 Crescent Park Drive, Gainesville
See the amazing birds in the parking lot just in front of the store. Hawks, falcons and owls. Time: Noon – 3 p.m. • Cost: Free gainesvilleva.wbu.com
Saturday and Sunday April 22, 23 MID-ATLANTIC VIETNAMESE GOLF ASSOCIATION 2023 CHERRY BLOSSOM TOURNAMENT
@ Stonewall Golf Club, 15601 Turtle Point Drive, Gainesville Save the Date! More information to come. www.mavga.org
Saturday, April 29 SINISTRAL’S PROM NIGHT 2023
@ Sinistral Brewing Company, 9419 Main Street, Manassas
Prom night party with entertainment by Revelry Media Production.
Time: 7 p.m. – 11 p.m. • Cost: TBA sinistralbrewingcompany.com
Saturday, April 29
OLD TOWN MANASSAS ART SHOW AND CRAFT SPRING FAIR
@ Manassas Museum, 9101 Prince William Street, Manassas
Celebrate spring and Mother’s Day in Old Town Manassas. Support local small businesses, independent artisans and crafters.
Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. • Cost: Free manassasva.gov
Monday Nights
WEEKLY OPEN MIC NIGHTS
@ Potbelly Sandwich Shop, 7352 Atlas Walk Way Come out and play something that your mother would approve of – we are looking for songs from the‘60s,‘70s,‘80s up to present day. Join us for some good clean fun on Music Mondays!
Time: 5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. • Cost: Free openmicvirginia.com
As early perennials begin to emerge, sprucing up your curb appeal is a great way to quell the winter blues - just a few simple steps can enhance the look and value of your dwelling. Whether you plan to sell or stay in your home for the foreseeable future, it’s important to highlight that curb appeal. It’s more than just mulch and plants; it’s relevant to address the following:
» Mailbox
I cannot emphasize how important this for buyers: They want to see a neat unit with numbers you can read and a functional door and flag. Some sellers easily overlook the mailbox aesthetics, as they’ve grown accustomed to seeing the dings and rust every day when getting the mail. But, believe me, buyers notice!
Dress it up with a mix of plants. Try evergreens like compact inkberry holly gem box, assorted perennials and colorful annuals. Choose sun lovers for a spot that gets full sun.
Also, if you need to replace your mailbox, check with your HOA to see what style and colors are approved for your neighborhood.
» Gutters and Downspouts
If you live in a wooded area, it’s a great return on investment to install a gutter system that prevents clogging. Also, check for rust, bending, or parts that may be coming unattached from the house –they are not only an eye sore, but also detrimental to the foundation.
» Fences
Check for missing or loose balusters/pickets. Ensure your gates close smoothly. Paint or stain the sections that are peeling or fading. If there are sections that need replacing, use something that matches the existing fence system and style. If this is beyond your do-it-yourself abilities, hire a professional.
» Exterior Trim
Do inspections a couple of times a year to stay on top of anything that is rotting so you can address it before the damage is too extensive and thus expensive. Replacing with a composite material is a great alternative, and while more expensive than wood, it doesn’t require the kind of maintenance than exterior grade wood does.
» Front Door
A fresh coat of paint goes a long way and it’s likely the single best thing you can do to enhance the look of your home. Check with your HOA before you paint the door a different color.
Also, check the hardware. Are you switching to a smart lock? Did you get a new Ring doorbell to monitor who approaches your home?
These are relatively low-cost changes that improve the functionality of your household.
» Windows and Screens
Most of us have vinyl framed windows, and most likely we have the original builder grade type. If you plan to live in your house for a while, consider replacing them with energy efficient windows. Not only do they let in more light, but they also enhance the exterior of the home. While you’re at it, price out the replacement of the screens. Home improvements such as new replacement windows are a popular way for taxpayers to claim a tax credit and upgrade their homes in the process.
» Roof
Did the last storm put a number on your roof? Reach out to your insurance company and have an adjuster come and inspect it to see if you are eligible for a full replacement. Go through the list of installers your insurance company provides and make sure they give you a transferable warranty so you can pass it on to the new owner when it’s time to sell.
» Garage Doors
If your kids have been practicing sports in your driveway, or if they are learning to drive, chances are your garage doors may be dented, bent or peeling.
Have a garage door specialist replace the panels that need addressing. You may also want to have them check the springs and locking mechanism to ensure your garage doors close properly.
» Yard Drainage
While this one is not easily visible, the outcome of a nonexisting or a malfunctioning drainage system is no joke. Check the areas around your downspouts and consult a professional if you think you are having water issues. Also check your basement and your sump pump regularly to avoid costly repairs.
» Sprinklers
Again, you can’t really see them, but they are a great tool for an effortless watering process. To save on water, my husband invested in a smart system that detects rain and will not go off on those days. It also connects to his phone, and he can monitor and schedule how often the sprinklers go off.
» Mulch and Plants
The most common mulching mistake is putting down too much. An overly thick layer can prevent rainwater from reaching plants, especially during lighter rainfalls. Thickly applied organic mulches can stick together, become moldy and decompose anaerobically — without oxygen — releasing chemicals harmful to plants.
Organic mulches fade over time, turning grayish. This is not a problem for most people, but some prefer fresh mulch because it’s more colorful. Others use dyed mulches, which also fade but not to the same degree. One caveat with dyed mulches: They can leach chemicals into the soil and chase away earthworms. When in doubt, go with natural.
» Flowers and Plants
Boxwood, roses and hydrangeas are at the top of my list. They add lush, color and texture. Make sure you leave a couple of feet between the plants and the house so they have room to spread.
Front door urns are a must! You can change the look of your home by planting seasonal annuals. They are also ideal for growing topiary plants.
Azaleas, day lilies, hostas and ornamental grasses add a great visual to your home.
I hope you found these tips useful and can put them into practice. If you have any questions about the market or would like to get more tips on things to do to improve the value of your home, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I have a vast experience in interior design and home remodeling and will be more than happy to give you some insight on where to put your money to work for you!
Until next time, be well and thrive!
By Marianne Weaver
Cake4Kids was founded in September 2010 in Sunnyvale, Calif., by Libby Gruender to provide free birthday cakes to foster children and at-risk youth in the San Francisco Bay Area. She had read an article about a young girl in foster care who burst into tears when her new foster mother presented her with a chocolate birthday cake. She wasn’t upset about the flavor but overwhelmed by the gesture: She had never had a birthday cake before.
Gruender resolved to make sure the children in her community had birthday cakes to celebrate.
In 2019, Mary Campbell read about Gruender’s work.
“It had never occurred to me that there are children who won’t get a cake for their birthday,” said Campbell in an interview on the organization’s website. “When I think of the struggles that some of these children deal with, I never once considered whether they would get a cake on their birthday. If we can help to provide a struggling child with a birthday cake, that is truly a gift for all those involved. Every child should feel loved and special on their birthday, just like I did.”
She made the call and established the first chapter outside of California. Today, there are 24 chapters and Campbell is the ambassador for Northern Virginia. “We were the first chapter outside of California, here in NoVA.”
The mission, she said, is simple: Bake and deliver birthday cakes to underserved children who might not otherwise receive one.
“In a world where the basics of a positive childhood are often out of reach and youth have little to call their own, the seemingly simple gift of a birthday cake can make a huge impact by raising their self-esteem and confidence,” she said. Campbell grew up in a large family. She said they didn’t have a lot of money, but she never realized that because she was surrounded by love. And birthdays were always special.
“My mom always made my brother and I amazing birthday cakes filled with love,” she said. “When I got older, I started baking birthday cakes for all of my godchildren for their birthdays and, eventually, I had my own children and baked for them for every special occasion and holiday and, of course, their birthdays.”
Cake4Kids partners with more than 100 local human and social services agencies to identify kids in need. Then the baking assignments are sent out to one of more than 600 local volunteers to back the cake.
And not just any cake. The kids request flavors and sometimes give some decoration theme suggestions.
BAKE A CAKE
“One of my favorites was for a young person who requested the theme green, animals, and jewelry,” said Campbell. “The baker made the most amazing green frog wearing jewels.”
To date, more than 3,400 cake have been delivered locally.
“All of the cakes are absolutely made with love,” she said. “Our bakers care so much about each and every cake they deliver. We have the most amazing group of dedicated and kind volunteers. As a team, we make sure that every child who asks for a cake in Northern Virginia receives one.”
You don’t need to be a professional baker to become a volunteer.
“We have bakers of all different ability levels. You just need to have reasonable baking skills,” she said. “As long as it is made with love the children will feel that.”
Bakers deliver the cakes to the agency representative who then present the cake to the child.
For more information, visit cake4kids.org.
Battlefield....................Tuesday, June 6.............. 7 p.m............ Jiffy Lube Live Brentsville District........Monday, June 5.............. 1 p.m............ Jiffy Lube Live
C.D. Hylton ...................Saturday, June 10...... 9:30 a.m.......Eagle Bank Arena
Charles J. Colgan Sr.......Saturday, June 10........... 9 a.m....Colgan High School
Forest Park Sunday, June 4 7 p.m. Eagle Bank Arena
Freedom Tuesday, June 13 2 p.m. Eagle Bank Arena
Gainesville Tuesday, June 13 7 p.m. Eagle Bank Arena
Gar-Field Sunday, June 11 7 p.m. Eagle Bank Arena
Governor’s School Osbourn HS, @ Innovation Park........Saturday, May 20 ......... 10 a.m........... Manassas Park
Independence Hylton Center for Nontraditional..............Thursday, June 8 6 p.m. Performing Arts
Osbourn Park Sunday, June 11 2:30 p.m. Eagle Bank Arena
PACE West Thursday, June 1 12:30 p.m. PACE West
Patriot Monday, June 5 7 p.m. Jiffy Lube Live Potomac.......................Saturday, June 10...... 2:30 p.m.......Eagle Bank Arena
Unity Reed ...................Tuesday, June 6............ 12 p.m............ Jiffy Lube Live Woodbridge .................Sunday, June 4.......... 2:30 p.m.......Eagle Bank Arena
Photographs provided by Mountain View parents
Mountain View Elementary School
PTO hosted its annual FatherDaughter dance Friday, Feb. 11.
This is a coveted event in the MVES community, and this year we rolled out the red carpet for a “Hollywood” theme. More than 275 dad/daughter combos came out for a night of fun – seeing friends, dancing and, of course, the chocolate fountain.
This event that gives dads (grandfathers, uncles, big brothers, …) a chance to spend some quality, carefree time with their daughter(s). While most of the time, the fathers can be seen standing around the perimeter of the room observing all the little ladies squealing, playing tag, and dancing with friends, there were plenty of special moments and dances saved for dad.
