SEPTEMBER 2021
Cherishing Every Moment: The Navarra Family ALSO INSIDE: Cover photo by The Little Photo Shop | An exclusive magazine serving the neighborhoods of Piedmont and Dominion Valley
Promoting International Understanding and Goodwill, One Student at a Time Pg. 12 Friday Night Lights: Battlefield High School Bobcats Pg. 14 Also – HS Volleyball, Field Hockey, Cheer and Band pics and schedules!
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PUBLICATION TEAM Publishers: Michael and Debbie Wykowski Content Coordinator: Marianne Weaver Designer: Jody Zipp Contributing Photographer: Melinda Ratcliff, The Little Photo Shop
Debbie and Michael Wykowski, Publishers
Marianne Weaver Content Coordinator
ADVERTISING Learn more about becoming a sponsor. Contact: Michael and Debbie Wykowski Email: mwykowski@bestversionmedia.com or dwykowski@bestversionmedia.com Phone: 703-203-9130 FEEDBACK/IDEAS/SUBMISSIONS: Have feedback, ideas or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: mweaver@ bestversionmedia.com.
Dear Readers,
The schools are open and fall sports are in full swing! In this issue, we are featuring our high school teams – football, field hockey, golf, volleyball, as well as the cheer and dance teams and the marching band. While most of us were still on vacation, these kids were logging lots of hours at various gyms and fields. Along with some photos of the teams working out in the summer heat, we’ve included each team schedule. I hope you take the opportunity to cheer for our neighborhood athletes. Another sure sign that life is slowly returning to normal is our growing calendar of events. This month, you’ll notice quite a few charity rides, runs, walks and golf tournaments. While the world was shut down, many local nonprofits continued to support our community, despite decreased donations. If you’ve got a free day, we’ve got something for you! Have a happy fall!
Debbie and Michael Wykowski, PUBLISHERS
Marianne Weaver, CONTENT COORDINATOR
FOOD PANTRY NEEDS Submitted by House of Mercy Food Pantry Please help us feed the hungry in NoVa! We need: fresh vegetables, fruit, dairy and meat (if delivered directly to HoM).
Check out the link to our website for an Amazon wish list as well: www.houseofmercyva.org
To help keep the food pantry stocked all year, please donate: Cans of tomatoes, chicken, tuna, vegetables, soup, beans, fruit and corn; macaroni and cheese; olive/vegetable oil; pasta and sauce; cereal.
Food Pantry / Donation Center / Thrift Store 8170 Flannery Court, Manassas, VA 20109 Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. (703) 659-1636 info@houseofmercyva.org
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.
EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANT Claire Machosky-Ullman, BA, MS, SAS Author: A PATH TO LEARNING AND LITERACY and STUDY*LEARN*SUCCEED 516-384-9517 | cmachosky@comcast.net Claire’s mission is to help students learn “How to Study”. She believes students need to be taught how to study, and her recently released book, A PATH TO LEARNING AND LITERACY, does just that. An experienced teacher, school administrator, and educational consultant, Claire designed and successfully taught programs that improved student understanding and performance. She served on curriculum and assessment committees with the NY State Department of Education, and is currently a Teaching with Primary Sources (TPS) Coach with the Library of Congress. As an author and based on the content of her book, she gives talks on School Success and offers “How to Study” workshops for students.
FINANCIAL ADVISOR Deborah Trnka - Edward Jones Advisors Deborah Trnka 571-248-8267 deborah.trnka@edwardjones.com Edward Jones is a different kind of investment firm. To us, face time and think time make sense. We meet with you to learn your individual needs so we can develop a strategy to help you achieve your long-term financial goals. You can expect personalized service to develop an investment strategy that makes sense for you. Contact me today!
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HEALTH AND WELLNESS Health & Wellness with Lisa Lisa Gorsuch 202-455-5017 www.healthwellnesswithlisa.com healthwellnesslisa@gmail.com Facebook: healthwellnesslisa
Lisa has her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology. For the past five years, she has worked in a private, outpatient practice helping individuals and families. Due to COVID-19, she transitioned to working at home and is now a Certified Mindset Life Coach. With a holistic approach, Lisa helps her clients overcome obstacles, achieve their goals by developing healthy thoughts, beliefs and attitudes, and ultimately experience the necessary change and results that they want in their lives.
HOLISTIC / ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE Your CBD Store - Gainesville, VA Beth Collingwood, Owner 703-743-9403 | beth@yourcbdva.com yourcbdva.com | budzzy.com Facebook: yourcbdstoregainesvilleva Instagram: yourcbdva Beth Collingwood, the owner of Your CBD Store in Gainesville and Fairfax, lives in Gainesville and has worked in the pharmaceutical industry for almost 20 years. Her journey with CBD began in 2015 when she was diagnosed with blood cancer and began looking for more natural remedies to help with the pain, anxiety and insomnia that were by-products of treatment. CBD changed her life, so she was inspired to open a boutique-style shop focused on providing a comfortable, safe space where each client can discuss the benefits, safety and relevance of cannabis.
INSURANCE - HOME, AUTO, BUSINESS Stover Insurance Agency Eddy Lang 571-261-2700 www.stoveragency.com haymarket@stoveragency.com The Stover Insurance Agency has served individuals and businesses with their insurance needs since 1930. Whether you are insuring your family, your home, your automobile or your business, you want to feel confident that you have an organization behind you that will take care of your needs. The Stover Insurance Agency is there for you.
ORTHODONTICS TEEM Orthodontics Dr. Madueke Ekoh 703-753-4777 | teemortho.com Dr. Ekoh’s journey started in Nigeria, obtaining his Pre-Bachelors in Dental Surgery before emigrating to the U.S. He received his Doctorate in Dental Surgery and Orthodontist certificate at Howard University. To keep up with the advances in orthodontic care, Dr. Ekoh regularly attends numerous seminars, and is an active member in several professional associations, including the American Association of Orthodontists. He lives in Haymarket with his wife and four children. “My vision is to make advanced, high quality and cutting-edge orthodontic care available and affordable to everyone. I believe that great orthodontic care should not only improve the smile, but help people experience the joy of living better.”
PERFORMING ARTS Lasley Centre for the Performing Arts Kalie Lasley 540-905-2782 | klasley@lasleycentre.com www.lasleycentre.com Kalie Lasley is an American Ballet Theatre (ABT) Affiliate Teacher and the Executive Director of Lasley Centre for the Performing Arts in Vint Hill. Ms. Lasley has an extensive background in dance, including time as a professional dancer at the prestigious San Francisco Ballet. Lasley Centre opened in 2011, growing into a 9,000 square foot, state-of-the-art facility where students from pre-ballet to pre-professional train to be technically sound artists in a nurturing environment.
REAL ESTATE Century 21 New Millennium Diane Quigley 703-732-5952 www.dianeqworks4u.com Diane is a successful Real Estate agent with Century 21 New Millennium and also a Broker who has been a professional realtor for over twenty years. She earned her Bachelor’s of Business Administration/Real Estate degree from Florida International University, and then became a Real Estate Broker and was Vice President of Century 21 Alinco Associates. Diane founded a Real Estate appraisal business and she has served as Chairman of the Virginia Real Estate Appraisal Board. She is also a Professional Stager and a Certified Military Residential Specialist.
SOCIAL EDUCATION National League of Junior Cotillions Kathleen Geneva 703-901-1498 | kathleen.geneva@nljc.com www.nljc.com/chapter/westprincewilliam Kathleen Geneva is a licensed Modern Etiquette and Cotillion Instructor with the National League of Junior Cotillions (NLJC) and the Emily Post Institute.She was recently awarded the Best New Director of the Year by the NLJC and also received recognition for Best Public Relations for her local franchise Chapters.Mrs. Geneva has a genuine passion for teaching children the importance of social education. Her goal is for every student to leave her program with an increased sense of knowledge, confidence, self worth and skills that will assist them in young adulthood and last them a lifetime.
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
Cherishing Every Moment: The Navarra Family By Marianne Weaver | Photos by The Little Photo Shop Bryan and Christy Navarra are NoVa natives. Although Bryan was born in California, both he and Christy were raised in Manassas. They met while working at O’Meara’s Restaurant & Pub (he was her manager), went for their first date at Logan’s Roadhouse in Manassas, and got married Saturday, Oct. 3, 2009, at St. Claire of Assisi Catholic Church in Clifton. Along with their four children—Christopher, Ryan, Liam and Emily—they moved to Piedmont in August 2019.
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“I love the sense of community here,” said Christy. It’s that community the family leaned on when Emily passed away Wednesday, April 15, 2020. “When Emily came home from St. Jude on hospice care, the neighbors really came together to make her feel loved. They had a yard sign put up for her that said, ‘We love you Emily’ and they dropped off food and other gifts. They made sure that we were stocked with tons of cleaning supplies and masks since the pandemic had just started. They made sure that we felt the love. We will always be thankful for that.”
Emily was diagnosed with medulloblastoma Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2015. “We noticed that she had some facial paralysis and some balance issues. She was just 2 years old,” said Christy. “After looking at different options, we believed that she had the best chance of survival at St. Jude.” Emily spent 10 months at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, undergoing both chemotherapy and radiation treatments. “She was cancer-free for 18 months but then relapsed,” said Christy. “She received additional chemotherapy and radiation for another 12 months. Her scans after her second round of treatment showed that the cancer was gone. Unfortunately, her cancer returned a month later and because she had already received so much treatment, she was out of options.” SPREADING THE LOVE St. Jude (named in honor of the patron saint of hope and impossible causes) is renowned as a specialty research hospital
for children, not a general children’s hospital. As one of the largest pediatric cancer hospitals in the world, St. Jude treats about 8,600 patients each year with 73 beds in operation and a license to go up to 80 beds. According to the hospital’s mission statement, their approach to treatment is unlike all others: “We believe a child should live as normal a childhood as possible, even when battling life-threatening diseases. That’s why most of our patients are treated as outpatients and stay in one of our four housing facilities with nearly 300 rooms specifically designed and managed by us for families of children with cancer and other diseases.” Consistent with the vision of the hospital’s founder, Danny Thomas, no child is denied treatment based on race, religion or a family’s ability to pay. The hospital relies on community support to continue its mission. Many national and local celebrities donate their time and resources to St. Jude. “We met some famous people while at St. Jude,” said Christy. “We had the honor of meeting Chip and Joanna Gaines. They
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were opening a new playhouse at the St. Jude Target House. We met them privately and took some pictures. Chip just loved Emily.” The family also attended a Wizards game as Bradley Beal’s guest of honor. Christy said Emily wowed the staff and patients with her “infamous” lip syncing and dancing. She was chosen to participate in the annual St. Jude Santa flight, hosted by Delta Airlines. Families were bussed from the St. Jude Target House to the Memphis airport, where a gate was set up for the Christmas party. “They had the Memphis football players, a live band, the Chic Fil A cow, and, of course, Santa,” said Bryan. “They boarded everyone on a plane and bussed us around the runway while fake snow fell. Santa was on the runway waving at the kids. The kids really felt like they were in the north pole. Emily was so excited to see Santa, and, of course, the snow.” When Bryan and Christy received the devastating news that Emily’s cancer was terminal, they resolved to make family memories to last a lifetime, regardless of the cost. “Of course she chose Disney!” said Christy. The Navarras packed up the car and drove to Orlando. “I told the hotel manager I wanted this trip to be the best trip she could possibly have, since we knew it would be her last.” Disney did not disappoint. Gifts and flowers (with glitter!) were sent to their room daily. The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique transformed Emily into Anna from “Frozen.” Emily met Rapunzel (her favorite princess) and Flynn Ryder. The family were guests at two character meals. “It was such a magical trip,” said Christy. “Emily was so happy. You could just see the happiness on her little face.”
But that is not where their honoring of Emily ends.
Holding on to that memory, the family makes an annual trip to Disney.
“After Emily passed away, we started really supporting St. Jude,” said Christy. “We wanted to give back to them to show our appreciation for everything that they have done for our family over the years during Emily’s treatment.”
“Our Disney trips are even more meaningful since now we go in honor of Emily,” said Christy. “We wear our matching Emily shirts and make sure that everything we do while there, we do for her. If she cannot do it herself, we will do it for her.”
The family participates in the annual St. Jude walk/run. They also host fundraisers every year for Emily’s birthday and her angelversary. Last year, despite the pandemic, they raised $17,000.
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Christy has dedicated herself to spreading awareness of childhood cancer, and especially for those organizations who supported her family over the years. One organization, Rhode Island-based Sami’s SendOff’s, holds a special place in her heart. “Sami heard about Emily through the childhood cancer community and sent Emily a care package,” said Christy. “Emily passed away a few days later. Sami decided to start Sami’s Sendoffs for Emily. Sami continues daily to keep Emily’s memory alive.” The Navarra family also works to give back to other organizations including Our Amazing Fighters, Hannah’s Happy Bundles, Glimmer of Hope, Stillbrave, Love your Melon, Alex’s Army, Ellies Hats, Binkeez for Comfort, and the Make a Wish Foundation.
Liam will be in the fifth grade at Mountain View. His favorite subject is reading. He also enjoys swimming with friends at the neighborhood pool. Ryan and Liam play baseball with GMBL in Manassas. Ryan, who started playing at age 7, plays first base. Liam started playing when he was 3, and often plays second base. Bryan works at Performance Food Group. He loves listening to music, cooking and traveling. And the Raiders. Christy works at Lockheed Martin in Manassas. She is also owner of The Pink Princess Etsy shop. “I enjoy making bracelets,” she said. “I started the shop in honor of Emily and named it The Pink Princess because she loved everything pink and anything having to do with princesses.” Once a week, the Navarras convene for family game night.
AT HOME IN HAYMARKET Christopher, 18, graduated from Riverbend High School in May. He enjoys cooking and working on his car.
“This was one of Emily’s favorite things to do as a family,” said Bryan. “We also enjoy having fires in the firepit. We always love that quality time together.”
Ryan, 15, Liam, 9, and Emily all attended Mountain View Elementary School.
The Navarras share their home with three cats: Mittens, Belle and Chloe.
Ryan is a sophomore at Battlefield High School. His favorite subject is history and he enjoys playing basketball with his neighborhood friends.
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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PET CORNER
Sponsored by A Dog’s Day Out
e r u t a e f o t t We waynour pets! Collected by Marianne Weaver Did you adopt a pet during quarantine? Or have you shared your home with a four-legged roommate for years? We want to feature our readers pets! Send a high-resolution photo to mweaver@bestversionmedia.com and tell us a little bit about your furry (or not-so-furry) friend.
Meet Coco
Coco is a sweet, cuddly King Charles Cavalier. At 6 months old, she is extremely lovable and has won the hearts of the Dillard family.
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ASK THE LIBRARIAN
Welcome Back to School …
The Books Missed You!
By Tammy Hinkle, Librarian As a new school year begins, students in all grade levels will have the opportunity to go to their school’s library once again. At the end of last school year, many librarians were busy ordering new books so when the students return to the buildings, new and exciting titles are waiting for them. Here are just a few that I am looking forward to sharing with my students. “Almost Time” by Gary D. Schmidt This picture book is about a young boy named Ethan. Ethan can’t wait until it is sugaring time, and for his lose tooth to fall out. His dad has to keep reminding him that it is not quite time for either event to happen. Through the course of the book, the reader gets to see how close Ethan and his dad are, and how they celebrate the end of waiting. Gary D. Scmidt is the Newberry Honor winning author of “Wednesday Wars,” and “Pay Attention Carter Jones.” “Inky’s Amazing Escape: How A Very Smart Octopus Found His Way Home” by Sy Montgomery Inky the Octopus had been living in the New Zealand Aquarium after a fisherman brought him in. The staff quickly realized that Inky was curious about his surroundings and would like to explore. Then in 2016, Inky
escaped down a drainpipe back to his ocean home. Sy Montgomery does an excellent job of capturing Inky’s quest to return to the ocean to continue exploring. “This Way Charlie” by Carson Levis At the animals know that grumpy goat Jack likes to keep to himself. But when Charlie, a partially blind horse, arrives at the Open Bud Ranch, an unexpected friendship between the two will change both their lives for the better. I am excited to share these titles and so many more with my students. Librarians love to help children find books that they will love to read, but we also know the value in letting them select books by themselves. Remember that reading should always be a gift and never a chore. HAPPY READING! Follow me on Twitter: Buckland Mills Elementary School @hinkle_tammy
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CHARITY SPOTLIGHT
Education Travel & Culture:
Promoting International Understanding and Goodwill, One Student at a Time By Kristie Halander Education Travel & Culture (ETC) is a non-profit [501(c) (3)] educational exchange organization. ETC has been awarded in 2019 and 2020 with the Top Non-Profit Award. Since 1999, volunteer host families have supported ETC students by showing them love, American traditions, and becoming their second family. Opening your heart and your home to a foreign exchange student is a rewarding experience that can never be replaced. Our purpose is to promote international understanding and goodwill by providing high quality educational and cultural exchange programs in the United States and abroad. We seek volunteer host families across the country to host foreign exchange students. Our students come from more than 13 countries and are between the ages of 14 and 18 years old. They are from one of these countries: Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Paraguay, South Korea, Spain and Vietnam. Our students are fluent in English, bring their own health insurance and spending money. Each student is also assigned an ETC local coordinator, who calls and visits each host family
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and student on a regular basis to assess the student’s progress and assist both the student and the host family with the adjustment process. ETC students come prepared to make the most out of their high school year in the United States. They fully participate and integrate into their school, host family and community. Our students participate in a wide range of activities during their exchange year! They might join a sports team, try out for a musical, or even compete in a martial arts program. Then they return to their home country to further impact their world.
American families come from all types of socioeconomic levels, ethnic backgrounds, and locations. Our host families reflect this diversity. Families may have children of similar age to the exchange student or they may be younger. Some of our families are emptynesters who no longer have children at home. Single parent families also make up a portion of our host families. Our families commit to hosting a student for a semester or the school year. Our volunteer host families need to provide three meals a day, transportation to/from school, and a place to sleep/ study. Our host families that partner with ETC enjoy their experience so much, that 50 percent of them return to host again the next year. Our experienced staff will match a student with your family based off your families’ interests and hobbies. You will be presented with applications for several students and have the opportunity to choose the student that best suits your families’ lifestyle. Making the decision to host an international student is a big one, but it’s certainly going to be worth it. You’re about to spend a special time with someone from another part of the world. It’s going to be amazing! For more information, visit https://edutrav.org/host-anexchange-student-with-etc.
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KIDS CORNER
FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS: BATTLEFIELD HIGH SCHOOL
BOBCATS
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BATTLEFIELD SCHEDULE Photos by Marianne Weaver They’re back! The Battlefield High football team, band, cheerleaders and dance team logged long hours during the summer in preparation for the 2021 season. Here is the 2021 schedule.
Thursday, Sept 2.............. vs. Patriot HS....................................... 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 17............... vs. C.D. Hylton HS................................ 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 24............... vs. Osbourn HS.................................... 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 1................... @ Freedom HS (South Riding)............. 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 8................... @ John Champe HS............................. 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 15................. vs. Unity Reed HS................................ 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 22................. vs. Osbourn Park HS............................. 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 29................. @ Gar-Field HS.................................... 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 5................... @ Patriot HS........................................ 7 p.m.
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KIDS CORNER
BATTLEFIELD HS SCHEDULE
VOLLEYBALL Photo by Marianne Weaver The Battlefield High School girls volleyball team took to the courts to prepare for the 2021 season.
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Games start at 7:15 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 1..... @ Westfield HS Tuesday, Sept. 7.......... vs. Osbourn Park HS Thursday, Sept. 9......... vs. Osbourn HS Monday, Sept. 13........ vs. Oakton HS Tuesday, Sept. 14........ @ Unity Reed HS Tuesday, Sept. 21........ vs. Patriot HS Thursday, Sept. 23....... @ John Champe HS Monday, Sept. 27........ @ Woodbridge HS Tuesday, Sept. 28........ vs. Gainesville HS Thursday, Sept. 30....... @ Osbourn HS Monday, Oct. 4............ @ Gainesville HS Tuesday, Oct. 5............ @ Osbourn HS Thursday, Oct. 7........... vs. Unity Reed HS Tuesday, Oct. 12.......... @ Freedom HS Thursday, Oct. 14......... @ Patriot HS Monday, Oct. 18.......... vs. Freedom HS
SCHEDULE
GOLF Photo by Marianne Weaver The Battlefield High School golf team was busy playing tournaments throughout August. They wrap up the season Tuesday, Sept. 28 at the district tournament hosted by Bull Run Golf Club.
Games start at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 7.......... vs. Osbourn Park HS Thursday, Sept.9.......... vs. Osbourn HS Tuesday, Sept.14......... @ Unity Reed HS Tuesday, Sept. 21........ vs. Patriot HS Thursday, Sept. 23....... vs. John Champe HS Monday, Sept. 27........ @ Liberty HS Tuesday, Sept. 28........ vs. Gainesville HS Thursday, Sept. 30....... @ Osbourn HS Monday, Oct. 4............ @ Gainesville HS Tuesday, Oct. 5............ @ Osbourn HS Thursday, Oct. 7........... vs. Unity Reed HS Tuesday, Oct. 12.......... @ Freedom HS Thursday, Oct. 14......... @ Patriot HS Monday, Oct. 18.......... vs. Freedom HS
FIELD
HOCKEY Photo by Marianne Weaver The Battlefield girls hit the fields this summer in preparation for the 2021 season.
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BACK to SCHOOL: What’s Involved? EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR By Claire Johnson Machosky BA, MS, SAS, Book Author
“Guide your children’s path to learning and literacy by showing your support and appreciation for the excitement of learning.” -- A Path to Learning and Literacy, p. 115 As summer draws to a close and the days grow shorter, the emphasis on going back to school looms large. You see store specials, TV advertisements and news reports “Will masks be required?,” etc., etc. Those outside forces indirectly impact your children’s return to the classroom and the demands of daily instruction. Remember, parents - you are the direct impact on your child’s return to school! Yes, it is you who sets the tone for achievement and success. Let’s discuss creating a positive return-to-school state of mind. As parents, you are the most important influence in your child’s life and in shaping his/her attitude toward school. Gallup Polls have indicated that repeatedly! Back to school for parents involves reflection, planning and communication.
You know your child: his/her strengths, interests, challenges and habits. Use that knowledge to establish a workable atmosphere at home that compliments classroom instruction whether it takes place virtually or in the classroom. It is the parents who must establish the desire and the learning atmosphere at home. REFLECTION: Think back over the past year and use the Two Stars and a Wish approach to setting a workable approach for back to school. Identify two activities where your child was actively involved in learning – Was it a room in the house where they worked diligently? Perhaps it was a time of day that was most productive. Reflect, identify and use what worked to continue to create a positive and effective home learning environment. What do you wish could be different or better: Keeping current with assignments? Locating study materials? Now is the best time to make those changes and fulfill your wish. PLANNING: More important than purchasing school supplies or deciding what to wear the first day of school is where and when schoolwork will be done at home. Talk with your child to identify the best place to study, the best time to study; have your child write it down and make a commitment to routinely schedule study time and place. To keep informed and to stay current with all assignments, be sure your child is using an assignment pad or agenda book. It is also a tool for you to monitor and keep abreast of their assignments while guiding them to stay on task. A major problem in a student’s poor performance is missing or late assignments because the student failed to make note of the due date. Parents and child should complete this form together to identify a workable study routine. (*A Path to Learning and Literacy,” page 140)
Where and When Will You Be Studying?
What Materials Do You Need to Study?
Location
Supplies
Alternate location
Textbooks
Amount of time
Other materials
Start Time Finish Time
Computer – yes/no Website
COMMUNICATION: We all need and want to be heard. Active listening involves hearing and responding to what the other person is saying. Children want to do well in school. If parents actively listen to their children’s ideas about getting organized and managing their time, parents will be able to give them valuable feedback and create an ongoing positive learning environment.
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Back to school is an opportunity for parents to impact their children’s academic life with empathy, encouragement and understanding. Whether your child is beginning kindergarten or a rising senior, seize the opportunity to celebrate the start of another chapter in his/her educational journey. Celebrate the beginning of a new school year in a way that is special to your family - it could involve going out and celebrating, or a quiet evening at home discussing Two Stars and a Wish. The most important thing is to take the time to talk with your child and actively listen to their dreams and plans. Back to school 2021 will be memorable in many ways. Your responsibility as a parent is to make it a treasured memory for your child. Remember we are never too old to want to please our parents. Claire Johnson Machosky BA, MS, SAS Parent and Educator is dedicated to helping all children learn to study and succeed. Claire can be reached cmachosky@comcast.net.
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CALENDAR of EVENTS Saturday, Sept. 11
Saturday, Sept. 18
@ The Farm Brewery at Broad Run, 16015 John Marshall Hwy., Broad Run This event supports our nation’s wounded, ill and injured service members through the services provided by the nonprofit organization Willing Warriors. Many of them will be participating in the event either as riders, volunteers or part of the crowd along the road cheering the riders on. Many active duty and veteran service members may also be participating. Time: 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. • Cost: $30-$70 • bikereg.com/warrior-ride
@ Bull Run Harley-Davidson, 9321 Center Street, Manassas Sponsored by the Officer Down Memorial Page (www.odmp.org), this event brings together hundreds of law enforcement motorcycle enthusiasts and supporters from around the country to pay tribute to America’s fallen heroes and raise awareness of line of duty deaths nationally. All proceeds support ODMP’s mission of remembering the fallen. If you can’t join us in person that day, you can be there in spirit -- register for the ride as a Spirit Rider and honor fallen law enforcement heroes from wherever you are! Time: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. • Cost: $30-$35 • officerdownmemorialride.com
WARRIOR BIKE RIDE
Sunday, Sept. 12
ARTS ALIVE! 2021
@ Hylton Performing Arts Center, 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas A co-production of the Prince William County Arts Council and Hylton Performing Arts Center, this annual family-friendly arts festival features Prince William County Arts Council members and other community performers and fine artists. Enjoy hands-on activities for all ages, multiple stages of performances indoors and out, exhibits, food vendors, and more! Come out and celebrate your local arts community! Time: Noon-4 p.m. • Cost: Free, no tickets required. pwcartscouncil.org/arts-alive-2-2
2021 OFFICER DOWN MEMORIAL RIDE
Saturday, Sept. 18
HYLTON ON THE HILL: THE U.S. ARMY BAND DOWNRANGE
@ Hylton Performing Arts Center, 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas Downrange is a part of the most prestigious military band in the U.S. Army and supports the men and women of the Armed Services through popular music while reaching all audiences, young and old, with their continuously up-to-date repertoire of rock, pop, country, R & B, and inspirational signature patriotic arrangements that are popular with all listeners. Time: 4 p.m. • Cost: Free hylton.calendar.gmu.edu/the-u-s-army-band-downrange Sunday, Sept. 19
OUT OF THE DARKNESS MANASSAS WALK
@ 9201 Center Street, Manassas The Community Walks, held in hundreds of cities across the country to support those affected by suicide raise awareness and much-needed funds, strongly sending the message that suicide is preventable, and that no one is alone. Time: Registration begins at 10:30; event runs noon – 2 p.m. Cost: Registration is free • ManassasWalk@gmail.com Sunday, Sept, 19
FESTIVAL OF COLORS 2021
@ Bull Run Regional Park, Special Event Center, 7700 Bull Run Drive, Centreville The event celebrates spirituality, community, love and diversity with music, celebrity DJs, interactive dance, cuisine, beer, wine, hookah, shopping, kids’ activities and much more. Time: Noon-8 p.m. • Cost: $7-$15 • eventbrite.com/e/festival-of-colors-holi-dctickets-86958432011?aff=ebdssbdestsearch Monday, Sept. 20
CHARITY GOLF CLASSIC 2021
@ Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, One Turtle Point Drive, Gainesville The Charity Golf Classic, presented by GreenDrop, benefitting the American Red Cross, offers amateur golfers the opportunity to play on a “bucket list” golf course that serves as the perfect forum for entertaining key business associates. Time: Registration begins at 9 a.m., 11 a.m. shotgun star Cost: $7,500 for two-person sponsorship redcross.org/charitygolfclassic
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BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
Event information may be out of date due to the COVID-19. Confirm details with event organizers.
Saturday, Sept. 25
Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 25 and 26
@ 6740 Fayette Street, Haymarket This is an evening of jazz, dinner, gourmet desserts and togetherness to raise funds in effort to end homelessness among families and pregnant women, and to give babies caught in the cycle of homelessness a good first start and a safe home. Music will be provided by the one and only Black Market Band. Time: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. • Cost: $45 • carriedtofullterm.org
@ Mill Street, Occoquan The Craft Show will include both contemporary and country crafters and artisans from Occoquan and from all around the United States. Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Cost: Free • occoquanva.gov/town-festivals
JAZZ ON THE LAWN
Saturday, Sept. 25
CARS, PUPS & PINTS
@ Rockwood VA, 7505 Iron Bar Lane, Gainesville On-the-spot adoption as well as donation collection for the Prince William County animal shelter. Shirts will be available with all proceeds going to the shelter as well. Family and pet friendly. Cost: Free • facebook.com/events/268162421666292 Saturday, Sept. 25
WORLD HERITAGE FESTIVAL
@ Manassas Museum Lawn, 9101 Prince William Street, Manassas Enjoy a cultural performance show while shopping from our more than 60 artists displaying everything from fine art to jewelry, ceramics to crafts, and every creative item in between. Other vendors include area nonprofit organizations, entrepreneurs and local businesses. The kids zone has activities and games throughout the day. All games and activities are weather dependent and may change according to the CDC and county guidelines. Time: 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. • Cost: Free visitmanassas.org/event/world-heritage-festival Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 25, 26
2021 TANK FARM OPEN HOUSE
@ 13906 Aden Road, Nokesville The event will showcase 50 vehicles on display with an additional dozen that are demonstrated throughout the weekend. Among the vehicles on display are more than 100 living historians who bring the event to life. Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. • Cost: Free Pre-register at americansinwartime.org/news/events/event-registration
HISTORIC OCCOQUAN FALL ARTS AND CRAFTS SHOW
Sunday, Sept. 26
7TH ANNUAL LAKE JACKSON VFD CHARITY CAR SHOW
@ 2 Silos Brewing, 9925 Discovery Blvd., Manassas This is the 7th annual charity car show. Money raised will be donated to support Childhood Cancer Research. Time: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.; judging starts at 11 a.m.; awards will be at 2 p.m. Cost: Free • ljvfd.com Friday, Oct. 1
SWEET JULIA GRACE FOUNDATION CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT
@ Prince William Golf Course, 14631 Vint Hill Road, Nokesville Help bring sunshine to children in the midst of a storm. Entrance fee covers cart and greens fees, open driving range, grab and go breakfast, boxed lunch, hors d’oeuvres after play, player gifts and player contests. Time: Shotgun start 9:30 a.m. • Cost: $150 per golfer • sweetjuliagrace.org Friday, Oct. 8
FFAS 7TH ANNUAL CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT
@ Stonewall Golf Club, 15601 Turtle Point Drive, Gainesville Forever Families Adoption Services, Inc. (FFAS) will hold our 7th Annual Charity Golf Tournament. Time: Noon shotgun start • Cost: $125 • ffasva.org/upcoming-events Saturday, Oct. 30
OLD TOWN MANASSAS HOLIDAY CRAFTS, DESSERTS & SWEETS
@ Manassas Museum, 9101 Prince William Street, Manassas This is a delectable excursion in the world of crafts, sweets and desserts. Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. • visitmanassas.org
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
SEPTEMBER 2021
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UVA Health Notes - After 60 Years,
Scientists Find the Missing Link in Our Body’s Blood Pressure Control Submitted by UVA Health University of Virginia School of Medicine researchers have determined the location of natural blood-pressure barometers inside our bodies that have eluded scientists for more than 60 years. These cellular sensors detect subtle changes in blood pressure and adjust hormone levels to keep it in check. Scientists have long suspected that these barometers, or “baroreceptors,” existed in specialized kidney cells called renin cells, but no one has been able to locate the baroreceptors until now. The new findings, from UVA Health’s Maria Luisa S. SequeiraLopez and colleagues, finally reveal where the barometers are located, how they work and how they help prevent high blood
pressure (hypertension) or low blood pressure (hypotension). The researchers hope the insights will lead to new treatments for high blood pressure. “It was exhilarating to find that the elusive pressure-sensing mechanism, the baroreceptor, was intrinsic to the renin cell, which has the ability to sense and react, both within the same cell,” said Sequeira-Lopez, of UVA’s Department of Pediatrics and UVA’s Child Health Research Center. “So the renin cells are sensors and responders.” SENSING BLOOD PRESSURE The existence of a pressure sensor inside renin cells was first proposed back in 1957. It made sense: The cells had to know when to release renin, a hormone that helps regulate blood pressure. But even though scientists suspected this cellular barometer had to exist, they couldn’t tell what it was and whether it was located in renin cells or surrounding cells. Sequeira-Lopez and her team took new approaches to solving this decades-old mystery. Using a combination of innovative lab models, they determined that the baroreceptor was a “mechanotransducer” inside renin cells. This mechanotransducer detects pressure changes outside the cell, then transmits these mechanical signals to the cell nucleus, like how the cochlea in our ear turns sound vibrations into nerve impulses our brain can understand. The researchers have unlocked exactly how the baroreceptors work. They found that applying pressure to renin cells in lab dishes triggered changes within the cells and decreased activity of the renin gene, Ren1. The scientists also compared differences in gene activity in kidneys exposed to lower pressure and those exposed to higher pressure. Ultimately, when the baroreceptors detect too much pressure outside the renin cell, production of renin is restricted, while blood pressure that is too low prompts the production of more renin. This marvelous mechanism is vital to the body’s ability to maintain the correct blood pressure. And now, after more than 60 years, we finally understand how and why. “I feel really excited about this discovery, a real tour de force several years in the making. We had a great collaboration with Dr. [Douglas] DeSimone from the Department of Cell Biology,” Sequeira-Lopez said. “I am also excited with the work to come, to unravel the signaling and controlling mechanisms of this mechanotransducer and how we can use the information to develop therapies for hypertension.”
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SEPTEMBER 2021
BULL RUN MOUNTAIN NEIGHBORS
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