MAY 2021
The Ghadban Family: We love the people of Manassas. THIS ISSUE INCLUDES: - The History Within the Walls: Saving the M.J. Dogan House at Manassas - p. 12 - Making a Difference for Adult Literacy! - p. 13 - Upcoming Events and Tips from our Experts!!
Cover photo by The Little Photo Shop An exclusive magazine serving the neighborhoods of Old Town and surrounding areas
EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS 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. CHIROPRACTIC CARE American Wellness and Chiropractic Dr. Kyle Bloch 703-368-8800 americanwellnessandchiropractic.com/ Dr. Kyle Bloch, a NOVA transplant from Minnesota, began his career in chiropractic following his graduation from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport Iowa. He specializes in myofascial and muscle release techniques along with traditional chiropractic treatments. His strong scientific background in biochemistry and biotechnology blends western and holistic medicine, highlighting the benefits of both and treating the root of a condition instead of just masking the symptoms.
HOLISTIC SKINCARE AND NAILCARE Skintuition Holistic Skincare Tracy Childs, Master Esthetician and Nail Technician 703-653-0567 radiantskinfromwithin.com Tracy started her business in Manassas in 2015 and is conveniently located on Mosby Street in historic old town. She has been a master esthetician for 16 years and recently became a nail technician to offer healthy nail services to clients seeking a safe, private experience. Additionally, she earned advanced nail technician certification specializing in nail care for those with compromised health. Her extensive background working in medical esthetics for over 10 years gives her the opportunity to educate clients and compare options available to embrace healthy aging and self care.
SENIOR LIVING Paramount Senior Living at Manassas Kathleen Gallagher 703-392-0102 kgallagher@paramountsl.net Kathleen is a native of Centreville and has lived in Northern Virginia her whole life. For the past seven years, she has worked in the Senior Living industry, specializing in both Home Care and Assisted Living. She works together with community partners to help community residents better understand the Continuum of Care and better navigate the Senior Healthcare System. Away from work, Kathleen enjoys spending time with her family: her husband and two sons.
REAL ESTATE Lopez Realtors Jenny Lopez, Principal Broker work: 703-335-7468 cell: 571-221-5351 homeswithlopez.com Jenny was born in our nation’s capital, and raised in and around Manassas. In 2005, she began her career in Real Estate and now she is a Real Estate Broker and manages many agents. She has seen the housing market at its best and its worst. She enjoys helping her clients: viewing and staging homes, reading over home inspections, and negotiating contracts. Jenny says “It’s all worth it when a SOLD sign goes up on a lawn, or when I can pass keys over to ecstatic new homeowners.” She then returns home to her supportive and loving husband and her two shining stars, her kids Carlitos and Christian, and her various fur/ feather babies.
FINANCIAL ADVISOR Whitlock Wealth Management Bennett C. Whitlock, CRPC 703-492-7732 bennett.c.whitlock@ampf.com whitlockwealth.com Bennett is currently the CEO & Managing Principal of Whitlock Wealth Management, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial, located in Prince William County VA with offices in Lake Ridge, Leesburg, and Historic Downtown Manassas. Whitlock Wealth recently celebrated its 25th year in business. Bennett is a graduate of Elon University and a native Northern Virginian. Outside of the office, Bennett enjoys running, boating, and has completed eight Marine Corp Marathons.
HEATING, COOLING AND PLUMBING Appleton Campbell Featured Employee: Chris Wilson 540-347-0765 appletoncampbell.com — “Appleton Campbell believes in me and is giving me the opportunity and skills to grow. I’m excited to excel in my career for me and my customers. “ – Chris Wilson, Plumbing Install Technician since 2019. Appleton Campbell has masters in Plumbing, Gas Fitter, HVAC and Electrical. To learn more please visit appletoncampbell.com.
TAX SERVICES Lopez & Company Tax Services Robert Lopez 703-783-6162 lopezandcompany.com Robert is an accountant with over 20 years of experience advising small to medium size businesses and familyowned enterprises; he leads Lopez & Company, a boutique tax and accounting practice and payroll service bureau headquartered in Northern Virginia with clients in the D.C. metro area and across the United States. He is a tax speaker and presenter, and is a frequent guest at Univision to discuss topics related to business and taxation.
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LETTER TO THE RESIDENTS PUBLICATION TEAM Publisher: Michael & Debbie Wykowski Content Coordinator: Christine Craddock Graphic Designer: Terri Shelow Contributing Photographer: Melinda Ratcliff, The Little Photo Shop
Debbie and Michael Christine Craddock, Wykowski, Publishers 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 the month PRIOR TO the next issue. Email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: ccraddock@bestversionmedia.com. Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2021 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.
Dear Residents, Ahhh, May - not only is it my birthday month, but it is such a beautiful month to end the Spring season. The trees and flowers blooming lift my spirits and make me want to spend more time outside. I hope you do too. The Ghadbans, our feature family, sure do spend their time outside - especially in their backyard on Grant Avenue while gathering with family and friends. They love the people of Manassas and love shopping, dining, and buying local too. Our featured charity piece is BEACON for Adult Literacy. This organization is making a difference for adult learners who find it difficult to support their children’s education, navigate the healthcare system, and find/obtain employment. BEACON (Benedictine Education Assistance Community Outreach to Neighbors) is a ministry of the Benedictine Sisters of Virginia. Don’t miss two great informative articles from our expert contributors and read about Dr. Kyle Bloch of American Wellness and Chiropractic. I also hope you take the time to read an interesting piece about the M.J. Dogan House and history in the walls of this historic home. Thank you for your support and positive feedback of this magazine designed for you and all your wonderful neighbors!
Debbie & Michael Wykowski Publishers
Christine Craddock Content Coordinator
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RESIDENT FEATURE
We would like to thank Novant Health UVA Health System for sponsoring this month’s feature story.
Meet the
Ghadban Family:
We love the people of Manassas. By Christine Craddock | Photos by The Little Photo Shop
Harry and Barbara Ghadban, residents of the City of Manassas, not only live here, but work here. Their home on Grant Avenue has special significance as a place where so many memories have been made since 2005, when they built their home. Their most favorite thing about living in Manassas is “it’s where our family is. Our home is here; our company is located here; most of our family is all located close by all within the Northern Virginia Area, and most of our closest friends are here,” Barbara explains. Barbara, daughter of Colonel Robert and Mrs. Joan Weaver, and sister to 5 siblings, spent her childhood moving wherever the military orders sent them until she left the nest and made her way to Virginia. Harry is ‘home grown’. He has lived most of his life in Manassas beginning in the 1950s. At the age of 6, his parents, Yolanda and Momtaz, brought their family from New York to Virginia where they purchased a farm off Signal Hill Road. This later was subdivided and became the very first property they divided and started a company to build homes. Harry, his brother, and sister continued in the industry and owned their own companies. It was in the 80s that Barbara met Harry when she started working for their company and learning the business. In 1989, Harry and Barbara decided to open their own
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company, NVP, Inc., a residential New Home Builder. For the past 32 years, they have continued to build quality semi-custom homes primarily in the Prince William County area. During these years they kept busy as they both raised their children: Harry and his 3 daughters and Barbara and her 2 boys. Once the children had grown, graduated college, moved out, and began families of their own, it was then Barbara and Harry married. In 2005, the memories began when Harry and Barbara were married on New Year’s Eve surrounded by family and friends in the home they built. Fun times and many memories have since been created in their beautifully landscaped backyard which boasts an outdoor kitchen, fireplace, and pool. This is the area they enjoy hosting family gatherings and holidays for their 5 children and their spouses, and 6 grandchildren, as well as dinner parties with close friends. One of Barbara’s favorite traditions is the Annual Ghadban Christmas Party hosted at their home. In years past the guests were greeted by the friendly furry duo of the Ghadban’s first pets, Shit Tzus Hokie and Gizmo. Sadly, these fur babies have passed and currently the sassy duo
of Lucy and Lilly, also Shit Tzus, have taken on the role of greeting family, friends, and business associates when entering the home. Much of their relationship revolves around their work, which is not just a job but a passion. As a residential new home builder, they have realized that their passion comes from working with people. When a new property is started, the Ghadbans enjoy seeing families becoming neighbors, which then creates a community. “Our hope is that families will make it their forever homes! Always creating many memories for years to come.” “This is Harry’s golf game”, says Barbara, “meaning retirement to him would be still working. He will never retire.” While Harry is the serious one – very focused and business oriented – Barbara feels that her personality is “more hands-on approach with clients, employees, and participating in community organizations.” Although they work together, their individual areas of expertise mean they do not spend every moment together. Harry thrives in the acquisition of land and working with the local communities. Barbara loves the diversity of her everyday interaction with people. She
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The Ghadbans enjoy many of the local restaurants in Old Town Manassas and are frequent customers at Katerina’s for the Mediterranean Cuisine and CJ Finz for happy hours. As a shopping enthusiast Barbara visits Old Town’s pottery shops and hopes for some new children’s retail clothing stores in the future. “We shop local, dine local, buy local, and enjoy the sites of the city and Old Town with frequent walks with Lucy and Lily to nearby Nelson Park.
loves meeting new people and hearing their stories. Outside of work, you will find the couple playing tennis, golfing, horseback riding, and traveling. Throughout the years they have enjoyed trips to France, Greece, Italy, England, Mexico, and Dominican Republic as well as Hilton Head and the Outer Banks for quality family beach time.
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The Ghadban’s passion for giving back centers around helping families either through their membership at All Saints Church, or with their companies’ philanthropic efforts for Children’s National Medical Center which started 17 years ago after a personal family tragedy. Since then, NVP, Inc., along with their friends, family, and business associates, have raised over $630,000 from various events, but primarily their Annual Charity Golf Tournament. The money raised supports the Kids Care Fund which assists families who do not have health insurance for necessary medical treatments. Harry and Barbara are thankful for all those involved through work and personal relationships who continue to support the couple’s mission to support families in need.
BUSINESS PROFILE
Dr. Bloch of American Wellness and Chiropractic Heals Pain with Laughter By Christine Craddock
Dr. Kyle Bloch, of American Wellness and Chiropractic, runs his business based on a simple philosophy: “Whatever is best for the patient is done for the patient.” This allows him to focus not just on the pain the patient is experiencing, but, more importantly, the root cause behind that pain. Bloch doesn’t want to just scratch the surface of clients’ problems or symbolically apply numbing cream to a wound, but heal them and help lead them to a more productive life. Dr. Bloch admits chiropractic wasn’t his first route in medical school. The experience of watching his father suffer through cancer led him to study biochemistry and biotechnology and work towards creating pharmaceuticals for cancer patients. But after a winning opportunity to complete research during a summer program, he quickly realized he wouldn’t find his passion in the lab, but instead, working directly with people.
RIC ME A
ACTIC PR
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In the beginning, this self-confessed chiropractic skeptic had to be convinced by a friend to look more extensively into this field of study. But once Dr. Bloch learned about the current research literature and how effective chiropractic could be without the use of medications, he was hooked. He applied and was accepted to Palmer College of Chiropractic and then “everything seemed to just fall into place
& CHIRO
We've moved!
Come visit us in our new location: 8224 Spruce Street, Suite 330 Manassas, VA 20111 p: 703-368-8800
Dr. Kyle Bloch and make sense,” he says. Dr. Bloch graduated with a Doctor of Chiropractic degree in 2011 and began practicing less than a month later. Dr. Bloch opened American Wellness and Chiropractic in 2015 and began to implement his unique approach for his first patients and those who come to this day. “We are a holistic chiropractic and wellness center providing rehabilitative chiropractic services,” says Bloch. Bloch and his colleagues use x-ray and a series of blood tests to identify the origin of the problem and create a plan to achieve the patients’ goals. The most rewarding aspect to the job is seeing patients heal and return to living their lives to the fullest potential, says Dr. Bloch. “Getting back to their hobbies, families, and the youthful selves they used to be is my biggest enjoyment.” In chiropractic, there are three items to address: The Body, the Mind, and The Spirit. When all three can be addressed, the healing process is more successful. When asked to share a special message with the community, Dr. Bloch encourages them to check out American Wellness and Chiropractic for a unique experience with laughter as a part of the healing process. The staff always attempts to have patients leave with a little piece of humor to take with them. When not in his office, Dr. Bloch can be found traveling the world with his partner, Rich, of 8 years. They dream of owning an RV in the near future so they can “get a real view of the beauty that is our country.” Dr. Bloch is forever a student, he says, always seeking out new courses to learn more about chiropractic, music, history, or any other education that strikes an interest. He also helps to support the homeless in our community by serving as a collection center for Hope for the Homeless.
AmericanWellnessAndChiropractic.com NEIGHBORS OF HISTORIC MANASSAS
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Virtual Learning Support for Public School Students
Paramount Senior Living
The time of your life Begins Here
THE MERIT SCHOOL OF OLD TOWN MANASSAS
8757 SIGNAL HILL ROAD, MANASSAS, VA 20110
703-361-5113
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8485 PLANTATION LANE, MANASSAS, VA 20110
703-369-7942
manassas@meritschools.com Paramount strives to provide service excellence in health care to the community.
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THE MERIT SCHOOL OF MANASSAS PARK
9481 MANASAS DRIVE, MANASSAS PARK, VA 20110
703-396-7100
manassaspark@meritschools.com
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EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR Is homeownership still considered part of the
AMERICAN DREAM? By Jenny Lopez, Broker/Realtor Lopez Realtors
Homeownership has always been considered a major piece of the American Dream but has the past year changed the American view on homeownership? Definitely not. A survey of prospective homebuyers released by realtor.com last week reveals that becoming a homeowner is still the main reason this year's first-time homebuyers want to purchase a home. When asked why they want to buy, three of the top four responses center on the financial benefits of owning a home.
The Top Four Reasons for Buying are: + 59% "I want to be a homeowner." + 33% "I want to live in a space that I can invest in improving." + 31% "I need more space." + 22% "I want to build equity." The survey also reports that 62% of millennials say a desire to be a homeowner is the main reason they're buying a home. This contradicts the thinking of some experts who had believed millennials were going to be the first "renter generation" in our nation's history. As it always has been and very likely always will be, homeownership continues to be a major component in every generation's pursuit of the American Dream. Don’t wait to buy. Buy and wait.
JENNY CRISTELA LOPEZ Realtor
Principal Broker and Public Notary (703) 335-7468
Thank you to all my clients and colleagues for making my dreams come true. I’m just a small town girl working hard to make your real estate experience memorable.
(571) 221-5351 homeswithlopez@hotmail.com homeswithlopez.com
NEIGHBORS OF HISTORIC MANASSAS
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EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR
PEDICURES... Pretty Polish is Only the Finishing Touch By Tracy Childs, Licensed Master Esthetician + Nail Technician Certified Advanced Foot Care Nail Technician
W
hen warmer months are upon us, “toe revealing” footwear emerge! It’s often the time many people resume regular pedicures, although healthy foot care should be considered year-round. With a dramatic rise in foot and nail infections caused by nail salons with poor infection control, it’s the perfect opportunity to take a closer look at where you choose to have your next pedicure. These infections are especially dangerous for diabetics and those with other chronic diseases. Does your nail technician know if you have any medical concerns that would determine the need for special attention? Do they do an inspection of your feet before you plop your tootsies
Itt’s Time to Reveal Your Pretty Feet
Customized Holistic Facials + Natural Manicure & Pedicures Waxing & Brow/Lash Tinting + Neurotris Microcurrent Lifting
in the footbath? These initial steps are vital in receiving safe, healthy pedicures and shouldn’t be compromised. Take a good look around when choosing a place to get your feet in shape while being pampered. Are you in a crowded salon or spa with a mere plexiglass barrier separating you from others? Is the polish rack neatly kept and inviting or filled with dirty bottles? Is the environment clean and comfortable or visibly dirty and cluttered? Do they reuse items that are intended for single use? Are implements properly disinfected between clients following state regulations or sterilized, exceeding the standards? It’s important to focus on more than just a pretty polish job… for health’s sake. Let’s face it, getting a nail technician license isn’t that hard and can easily be accomplished in a matter of months. Advanced education is the key to expanding beyond what is taught in school, but sadly few nail technicians actually invest in it. Unfortunately, the enormous number of discount nail salons has driven the price of nail services down, setting an unrealistic value and cutting corners to survive. It’s quite costly to do things right, but in my opinion, there is no choice. The vast amount of places to pop into for a quick pedicure are problematic as there isn’t a relationship built between service provider and client, much like you expect with massage or skincare. Receiving consistent services from a regular nail technician is imperative as they know exactly what you need and how best to take care of you. Skintuition Holistic Skincare exceeds client expectations and provides healthy nail services in an exceptionally clean, non-rushed, private setting by appointment only.
9242-B Mosby, Manassas, VA 20110 • 703.653.0567 By Appointment Only - 24/7 Online Scheduling
www.radiantskinfromwithin.com 10
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REAL ESTATE UPDATE SOLD DATE
PROPERTY TYPE ADDRESS
PRICE
BEDS
BATHS
LOCATION
SQUARE FEET LOT SIZE
March 1, 2021
9316 Signal Station Drive
$585,000
4
3
ROSEBERRY
3,715
13,234
March 1, 2021
9614 Mercedes Drive
$600,000
4
2.5
OAKENSHAW
3,800
12,758
March 5, 2021
9226 Matthew Drive
$575,000
5
3.5
BLOOMS CROSSING
2,742
9,801
March 8, 2021
9137 Mulder Court
$503,500
5
3.5
ROSEBERRY
2,862
March 12, 2021
9313 Stuart Avenue
$570,000
4
2.5
ROBNEL
2,708
20,000
March 12, 2021
8651 Weir Street
$479,000
3
2.5
LIBERIA WOODS
4,147
11,878
March 19, 2021
9228 Matthew Drive
$580,000
5
3.5
BLOOMS CROSSING
3,040
10,105
March 22, 2021
9521 Fairview Avenue
$330,000
3
1
OLD TOWN MANASSAS 1,377
16,677
March 25, 2021
9113 Portner Avenue
$235,000
3
1.5
COLONIAL HOMES
1,262
March 25, 2021
9000 Longstreet Drive
$530,000
6
3
LIBERIA
2,918
20,000
March 26, 2021
9312 Signal Station Drive
$600,000
5
3.5
ROSEBERRY
3,492
13,173
March 26, 2021
9207 Cynthia Street
$400,000
3
3
BLOOMS CROSSING
1,800
7,187
March 26, 2021
9210 Greengate Court
$392,000
3
2
CAVALRY RUN
1,314
12,550
March 29, 2021
9401 Washington Avenue
$500,000
4
3
MANASSAS
2,638
19,800
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 represent 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.
“Your Neighborhood Specialist” AN UNMATCHED HOLISTIC APPROACH TO BUYING OR SELLING YOUR HOME Services Include: •Market Analysis •Expert Staging •Home Improvement Consultant
•House Cleaning Service Prior to Listing •Professional Pictures
•Custom Brochures and Internet Advertising SOLD OVER LIST PRICE
The Market is HOT Call Me Today!
TRACEY HICKEY
2 Days on Market
Licensed Realtor
(703) 850-5996 tmchickey@gmail.com
SOLD! $5 75,0 0
10 Offers
0
SOLD! $58 0,00
0
Historic District, 9208 Lee Ave, Manassas, VA 20110 NEIGHBORS OF HISTORIC MANASSAS
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The History Within the Walls: Saving the M.J. Dogan House at Manassas By Christy Forman, Manassas Battlefield Trust
Heritage Documentation Programs, NPS The Mary Jane Dogan House.
E
ach weekday, thousands of commuters unknowingly pass through the historic village of Groveton as they travel on Route 29 through Manassas National Battlefield Park. With only two structures remaining at the intersection of 29 and Groveton Road, it’s difficult to imagine that a small community once existed there. In fact, it was Groveton, not Manassas (then just a rail junction), that was at the center of the devastating Second Battle of Manassas. One of these structures, the Mary Jane Dogan House, is presently being documented and restored by the National Park Service with the support of the Manassas Battlefield Trust. Located next door to the wartime Lucinda Dogan House, it is an integral part of the historical landscape and must be saved to preserve the narrative of Groveton and its inhabitants. The stories of this lost community give voice to local citizens caught in the crossfire of battle and show how they overcame the devastation of war. During the Second Battle of Manassas, on the 29th and 30th of August 1862, Groveton sat at the eye of the storm. Fighting raged around the small community, with shells from dueling Union and Confederate artillery whizzing by. Citizens were forced to abandon their homes, and their livelihoods were threatened by the loss of livestock, food, crops, and fences. A decisive blow for the Confederacy was struck as General James Longstreet’s forces swept across the battlefield and through Groveton. As the Southerners advanced, New York's Zouaves, positioned at Groveton, took record casualties when they were overrun in just minutes. While some documentation exists regarding the extent of battle damage to homes and structures, the M.J. Dogan House gives historians clues to the destruction and recovery that the community faced.
must be raised by the end of 2021 to keep the project on track. The project is timely as neglect has taken its toll, with portions of the structure on the verge of collapse. After taking ownership of the M.J. Dogan House in 2019, NPS preservationists began the removal of non-historic materials. Then, throughout the last year, experts in architecture, archaeology, dendrochronology (dating through growth rings in timber), paint analysis, and more investigated and documented the secrets hidden in the building’s architecture, revealing some surprises in the process.
National Park Service Supports hold up the structure while preservationists rebuild the foundation.
Some of the most significant discoveries relate to the age of the building. The year “1879,” inscribed by the builder, puts the construction date after the Civil War, but carbon dating tells us that wood used in the house was harvested in the winter of 1824/5. Coupled with presumed battle damage on some of the beams, experts believe the home was constructed with materials from an earlier structure, perhaps in the same location. Currently, preservation workers with HistoriCorps are working to stabilize the building as a result of an engineering plan funded by the MBT earlier this year. The final stage of the project will be an exterior restoration of the building, informed by the discoveries made by preservation experts.
The house was built by Mary Jane Dogan, who operated a store from the site. She was influential in establishing the Groveton Ladies Memorial Association and nearby Groveton Confederate Cemetery. Her half-brother and his wife, William H. and Mary Ellen Dogan, inherited the home upon her death. National Park Service An historic preservation specialist drills Mary Ellen had ministered to wounded soldiers as a dendrochronology core, used to determine the harvest date of the wood a teen during the war and was later a Dogan famused to construct the building. ily spokesperson when Congress was considering purchasing battlefield land. Another Groveton resiThe Manassas Battlefield Trust (MBT), the official phildent, whose home and blacksmith shop sat across anthropic partner of Manassas National Battlefield Park, pledged to Rt.29 from the Dogan’s, was Andrew James Redmond. Redmond, an fund the documentation, stabilization, and exterior restoration of the enslaved blacksmith, gave several interviews about his wartime expeM.J. Dogan House, recognizing that it is likely the last opportunity to riences, making his record one of the few at the time by an African save a significant historic structure on the battlefield. The MBT has re- American in their own words. ceived a Centennial Challenge Grant from the National Park Service to cover half the cost of the project and has been working with longtime To learn more, visit www.savedogan.org or contact cforman@manasmembers and generous donors to raise the match. Nearly two thirds sasbattlefield.org. Follow the Manassas Battlefield Trust on Facebook of the required funding has been raised thus far. The final $100,000 for project updates!
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CHARITY SPOTLIGHT BEACON for Adult Literacy Submitted by Sister Cecilia Dwyer, OSB
BEACON for Adult Literacy is making a difference! Recently a friend who tutors immigrant children to try to get them up to speed said that the biggest deficit for the children is that their parents can’t speak English well enough to help them with their homework or communicate with their teachers. Language and literacy are huge issues for the immigrant populations in the Manassas/Prince William County area and BEACON provides the necessary tools for much-needed education. It was always difficult for our adult learners to support their children’s education, navigate the healthcare system, and find/obtain employment. Now, they have to figure out how to do that virtually with many lacking the literacy skills and the technology skills. Even during the pandemic, hundreds of learners are being taught virtually by volunteer tutors. Each teacher also has a volunteer IT person to help with the on-line teaching process, sharing slides etc. It has been an amazing process. Rosa’s story is a great example of the difference BEACON can make: “I can communicate now.” Rosa is 72 years old and was a nurse for over 40 years in Peru. She’s currently enrolled in a beginner English class at BEACON for Adult Literacy. She says: “English is difficult. I need help with vocabulary to understand and speak. My motivation is my grandchildren. I want to learn because they all speak in English. Learning English is necessary to be able to communicate with everyone.”
Imagine navigating the healthcare system when you can’t read, write, or speak the language. When a friend she was in close contact with, recently tested positive for Covid-19, Magaly had to figure out how to go through that process with very limited language skills. Relying on a translator, she scheduled a testing appointment online, was tested, and when confirmed positive, had to fill out a survey daily about her symptoms. If she had two or more symptoms, she received a call from the department of health. “It was traumatic, especially being so far from my country. Everything was tense, worrying I would wake up worse the next day.” She was scared that her husband, who is diabetic, her two children, or her grandson would get sick. Equipping adults with literacy skills is critical to helping them rise above poverty and strengthening their local community. In response to these immigrant needs, BEACON offers eight levels of English instruction and Citizenship preparation and integrates computer literacy and workforce readiness skills through a number of educational services such as resume and interview coaching. Our students not only become more fluent readers and writers of English, they also grow in their understanding of how to better care for themselves and their families. They also gain a deeper understanding of American culture. BEACON (Benedictine Education Assistance Community Outreach to Neighbors) is a ministry of the Benedictine Sisters of Virginia. It was founded by retired Sister Eileen Heaps who had taught school for many years. In 1992 she began tutoring one adult at a time and before long there were several sites and scores of volunteers working together. BEACON has a number of volunteer opportunities available in and out of the classroom.
It can be isolating and uncomfortable not having the language skills needed for everyday circumstances. She said it’s been particularly challenging when she’s going through Customs and Immigration or when she’s on a plane and can’t converse with the person next to her. “I am so thankful; my teacher is very good. She explains well, is very dynamic and makes class interesting.” Magaly is an example of how the pandemic has magnified the everyday challenges of low literacy. She explains: “When people ask me questions, I don’t know how to respond.”
BUSINESS TAXES PERSONAL TAXES COMPLEX TAXES
For more information about volunteering, contact Meg Kermon at mkermon@osbva.org. This year BEACON was the recipient of the 2021 Agnes L. Colgan Community Service Award: Arts & Education from the Prince William Chamber of Commerce. BEACON is also recognized as “one of the best” local nonprofits by the Greater Washington Catalogue for Philanthropy.
ACCOUNTING BOOKKEEPING PART-TIME CFO STARTUPS
PAYROLL BUSINESS ADVISORY CONSULTING
UNDERSTANDING THE BUSINESS OF OUR CLIENTS. 703.335.1659 | WWW.LOPEZ.TAX | 8628 CENTREVILLE ROAD, SUITE 102, MANASSAS, VA 20110 NEIGHBORS OF HISTORIC MANASSAS
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The Great American Cleanup happens March 20 – June 30 Submitted by Lynn Forkell and the Keep Manassas Beautiful Advisory Committee
There are 530 streets in the City of Manassas and there’s a very good chance that one of them is yours! As a Keep America Beautiful Affiliate, Keep Manassas Beautiful is part of the country’s largest community cleanup program. This national program engages millions of volunteers and participants who act in their communities every year to create positive change and lasting impact. Your participation in this national event will help the City of Manassas start sprucing up for spring!
2021 Tunnel to Towers Prince William 5k Run and Walk June 27, 2021 Please join us for the 2021 Tunnel to Towers Prince William 5k run and walk on Sunday June 27, 2021. To be held at the Prince William county complex in Woodbridge, this race honors fallen 9/11 first responders and benefits the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation. All proceeds will go towards paying off fallen first responder and military member mortgages, as well as building smart homes for catastrophically wounded veterans. We hope to see you there! To register, go to https://dogood.t2t. org/princewilliam-va-2021.
Last year, volunteers shared over 700 hours of their time and collected more than 1 ton of litter from our parks, streets, and public spaces. Want to take part? The City of Manassas provides litter pickers, vests, trash bags, and a little gift to show our appreciation - all you need to do is give an hour of your time between March 20 and June 30. Send us a picture of you and your crew doing a clean-up and you'll be entered into a drawing to win a gift card from Historic Manassas, which can be used in participating stores and restaurants in Historic Downtown. Sign up or clean up your adopted street, park, or public space and report your activity through our website: www.manassasva.gov/kmb. As always, we are grateful for your help in keeping our community clean and beautiful. Wishing you all the best for a lovely spring! Lynn Forkell and the Keep Manassas Beautiful Advisory Committee About Keep Manassas Beautiful: Keep Manassas Beautiful empowers residents, businesses, community, and civic organizations to actively participate in enhancing the appearance of the City of Manassas by working to keep our community safe and litter-free.
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Providing a “Home Away From Home” for our wounded, ill, and injured service members Willing Warriors is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization located in Haymarket whose mission is to provide cost-free retreat stays and programs that positively impact wounded, ill, or injured service members, disabled veterans, and their families. Our programs include more than 60 cost-free educational and recreational activities, including seminars that address the issues of dealing with PTS and TBI. Please join us for one of our events. « Memorial Ride/Poker Run – May 22nd « Vettes for Vets – July 10th « Warrior Ride – September 11th at the Farm Brewery at Broad Run « Gala – November 6th at Lansdowne Resort 16013 Waterfall Road | Haymarket, VA 20169 Website: www.WillingWarriors.org Email: info@willingwarriors.org | Phone: 571-248-0008
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