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DearResidents,
Happy Valentine’s Day!
We started this magazine years ago with a goal of connecting our neighbors. I love how our feature families have shared their stories – how they met and married, their passion projects, their kids’ accomplishments … all of it. In an area where so many people come and go, this magazine serves as an introduction among neighbors.
Maybe that’s why I’m so proud to introduce this month’s feature family: The Ho mans. That name might seem familiar to many of you, especially our female readers. A few months ago, Cyndi Ho man decided that she wanted to expand her friend circle. And she’s taken many of us – hundreds of us – along with her. Cyndi created the Facebook group Ladies of Haymarket and Gainesville Social Group. In just a few short months, nearly 800 women joined the group. They’ve created chats for every imaginable topic. And they’ve met in person for cocktails, co ee and play dates.
All because one woman wanted to make new friends. In this issue, learn more about this woman and her family.
MarianneWeaver CONTENT COORDINATOR
Love Cookies
BY GENEVIEVE MONROE
This Valentine’s Day, share these adorable cookies with someone you love. Enjoy!
WHAT YOU NEED:
• 1 package of peanut butter cookies
• 1 package of almond bark
• wax paper
• sprinkles and/or decorations
DIRECTIONS:
Lay out a long strip of wax paper. Melt almond bark in a glass bowl at 50% power until smooth. Dip one end of the cookie into the melted almond bark, wiping the back o on the rim of the bowl. Place the cookie on wax paper. Add your decorations or embellishments before the almond bark hardens. Once the rst end of each cookie is dipped, start
dipping the other side. This time, after the almond bark, immediately dip that end of the cookie into sugar crystals or sprinkles so they attach. You can be as creative as you want with color combinations and decorations for any season. These are delicious with a hot cup of cocoa or co ee.
MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS Expert
BECOME AN EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR
Share your knowledge and stand out from the competition. To learn more, contact Debbie Wykowski at dwykowski@bestversionmedia.com.
HOME COMFORT
Justin Dobson, Owner Comfenergy and 3 Pros Basement Systems 45714 Oakbrook Ct., Suite #180 Sterling VA 1.800.604.2252 www.comfenergy.com www.3prosbasementsystems.com
Justin has over 25 years of experience with home services including working for his families HVAC business. Justin founded Comfenergy in 2010 after realizing how many people needed comfort solutions in their home that were not HVAC based, but in fact, home science based. Justin and Comfenergy have been recognized by the Loudoun, Prince William and Fauquier Chambers of Commerce for their unique methods of helping homeowners make their homes more comfortable, have improved air quality and lower energy bills. Justin is a NoVa local and Virginia Tech graduate.
FINANCIAL PLANNING AND WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Northwestern Mutual –LIVE BETTER FINANCIAL LIFE
Todd Krebs & Brendan Krebs, Financial Advisors (703) 539-6814
todd.krebs@nm.com | brendan.krebs@nm.com
The LIVE BETTER FINANCIAL LIFE team is a family-oriented, generational planning wealth management rm, dedicated to helping clients and families across generations and industries achieve their nancial and personal goals. They specialize in providing comprehensive and customized solutions, including retirement planning, investment management, tax strategies, and estate planning. Brendan and Todd understand the unique needs of each client, crafting tailored plans that ensure nancial security and growth. Their commitment is to guide you through every stage of life, securing your nancial future and legacy.
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 certi cate 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 a ordable to everyone. I believe that great orthodontic care should not only improve the smile, but help people experience the joy of living better.”
© Best Version Media
LOCAL TAEKWONDO CHAMP Competes on National USA Team at World Championship in China
BY MARIANNE WEAVER
PHOTOGRAPHS PROVIDED BY RYAN GIL
Battle eld High School ninth grader David Gil started Taekwondo when he was 4 at USTigers Taekwondo in Gainesville. Today, David has travelled the world to compete.
Three days a week he trains at his home studio with his uncle, Master Dennis Kim, school owner, who is a world-class Taekwondo sparring coach and has been a USA National Team Coach for sparing for more than 10 years. He also trains with Master Charlie Kim, a world-class Taekwondo coach. Once a month he trains at ATMA with national team members in New Jersey and also takes online classes for three to four hours a week.
“For me to balance my academic life to my sports life is to just grind and work hard in school, make sure I’m all caught up so that I’m not so far behind on academics,” said David.
THE BASICS
place nish at the Pan American Sparring Championships, an exclusive event where only National team members and wildcards can compete in the Dominican Republic.
“Given that Taekwondo is an Olympic sport, the pinnacle for sparring is the Olympic Games,” said Ryan. “The World Poomsae Championship holds prominence for poomsae.”
David’s national team trials for both poomsae and sparring took place on the same day at the Charlotte Convention Center in January. David made the decision to forego the sparring team trials in favor of the poomsae team trials.
David’s father, Ryan Gil, explained that Taekwondo features two signi cant competition categories: Poomsae and Sparring. Poomsae competitions involve solo performances of choreographed sequences, with athletes being evaluated on the precision, balance and overall presentation of their movements. In Sparring competitions, athletes simulate combat with the goal of scoring points by landing kicks and punches on designated scoring zones. These competitions adhere to speci c rules and regulations, and participants wear protective gear for safety.
“Competing in both categories at the national or international level is quite rare, but David started participating in both when he was 8,” he said.
Initially, he said, David excelled primarily in poomsae, but recently, he has achieved victories in most major sparring competitions. In 2023, he secured a second-
“Participating in three divisions for poomsae team trials — individual poomsae, pair poomsae, and team poomsae (three people),” said Ryan. “He clinched a gold in team poomsae, securing a spot on the national team. Additionally, he earned a silver in individual poomsae, becoming an alternate team member, and claimed a bronze in pair poomsae.”
Although he stopped training for sparring and focused solely on poomsae for the World Championships, he won gold in sparring in every major U.S. tournament he participated in during the 2024 season, including three state championships, the U.S. Open, regionals, nationals, and ATU Nationals.
BEYOND U.S. BOARDERS
In November, David was a member of Taekwondo National Team (Team USA), representing the U.S. at the World Taekwondo Poomsae Championship held in Hong Kong, China. On the way, they visited family in South Korea.
“I had the opportunity to join an actual top college class with Taekwondo athletes at Kyunghee University, one of the best Taekwondo major colleges in South Korea,” said David. “In Hong Kong, I got to engage with top of the world class athletes and meet them. It was such an honor to even be in the same room as them. I learned about the many di erent styles and forms and all variations of one thing that can be so di erent but are truly beautiful.”
He placed second at the World Championship for Team Poomsae.
“After the nals with Team Korea at the Hong Kong World Championships, I had a few tears in my eyes, not because I was disappointed about losing by only 0.09 points, but because both teams performed really well,” said Ryan. “I was more moved by the accomplishment of the young athletes from both teams than by winning or losing.”
David said his greatest memory was experiencing a world level sport in real time.
“I had the best time training with my companions and meeting other national teams from other countries,” he said, already focusing on the future. “My next goal for Taekwondo is honestly just to keep pushing myself for good results and importantly, to enjoy the sport.”
February
EVENTS CALENDAR
Friday, Feb. 7
NEXT STOP COMEDY
@ Trouvaille Brewing Co., 14600 Washington Street, Suite 150, Haymarket Next Stop Comedy features a novel line-up with acts seen on TV and heard on your favorite podcasts.
TIME: 8 p.m. – 9 p.m. • COST: $25 trouvaillebrewingco.com
Saturday, Feb. 8
DECADES AT THE FARM ‘90s PARTY
@ The Farm Brewery at Broad Run, 16015 John Marshall Highway, Haymarket Celebrate the ‘90s with a live DJ, cocktails, food specials and Jello shots.
TIME: 7 p.m. • COST: Free thefarmbreweryatbroadrun.com
Saturday, Feb. 8
7TH ANNUAL NATIVE PLANT SYMPOSIUM
@ Verizon Auditorium, George Mason University, 10900 University Blvd., Manassas
A Native Plant Symposium for beginners and beyond! Create a beautiful yard, save time and money, improve water quality, build habitat for pollinators and birds.
Keynote: Doug Tallamy
COST: $55; $30 for students with ID pwconserve.org/staging/3382/native-plantsymposium-2025
Wednesday, Feb. 12
LOVE POTION MIXOLOGY COCKTAIL CLASS
@ Rockwood VA, 7505 Iron Bar Lane, Gainesville
Hands-on instruction to craft two Valentine’s Day themed cocktails with guidance from expert mixologists. Sip, savor, and enjoy your creations while indulging in a tasty happy hour appetizer and sweet Valentine treats. Plus, take home some exclusive swag to remember the night.
COST: $40 per person rockwoodva.com
Saturday, Feb. 15
TASTES OF HOME: AFRICAN AMERICAN CULTURE AND AMERICAN CUISINE
@ Ben Lomond Historic Site, 10321 Sudley Manor Drive, Manassas
Many Southern dishes have their roots in west and central African culture that enslaved workers brought to America. Participants will be able to prepare and taste African and Southern dishes in the historic Ben Lomond. Please wear appropriate shoes and clothing for the weather.
TIME: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. • COST: $20
Advanced registration is required at pwcparks.info/ hptickets.
Saturday, Feb. 15
VALENTINES GALA AT MCCALL GALLERY
@ McCall Studio Gallery, 9409 Battle Street, Manassas
Enjoy the gallery’s valentine’s red carpet gala and art show of never seen charcoal original drawings. Live music. Prizes. Poetry Reading. Complimentary food spread, desserts and champagne.
TIME: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. • COST: $55 dmvisualstudio.com
Saturday, Feb. 15
VALENTINE’S BEER & OYSTERS
@ Old Bust Head Brewing Co., 7132 Farm Station Road, Warrenton Nomini Bay Oyster Ranch will be on site (noon to 8 p.m.) with fresh raw and charbroiled oysters, shrimp and more. Live music from Farah Camille, 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Fresh bouquets for sale from LéRoy French Flowers, noon to 5 p.m. Sweet Treats available from The Sweet Pop Shop, noon to 5 p.m. COST: Free oldbusthead.com
Saturday, Feb. 15
VALENTINE’S WINE & CHOCOLATE PAIRING
@ The Wintery at La Grange, 4970 Antioch Road, Haymarket
The winery partners with Babylon Chocolate for another wine and chocolate pairing. Learn about the chocolate making process with Mia and why her delicious chocolates pair well with La Grange wines.
TIME: 1 p.m. • COST: $35
wineryatlagrange.orderport.net/wines/Tickets
© Best Version Media
Thursday, March 6
WOODCOCK WATCH
@ Leopold’s Preserve, 16258 Thoroughfare Road, Broad Run
Watch the evening “Sky Dance” of male woodcocks as they enter the mating season. At twilight, nd a viewing spot along Meadow Loop and settle down for a magical evening! Please bring a folding chair or blanket to sit on, and binoculars if you’d like a closer view. Dress warmly. You are welcome to bring a warm drink to sip as we watch. We also recommend a ashlight for navigating the trails by dark. Presented through a partnership of the Bull Run Mountains Conservancy and the White House Farm Foundation.
TIME: 5:45 p.m. – 7 p.m. • COST: Free, but please RSVP leopoldspreserve.com/events-1/woodcockwatch-3/form
Saturday, March 8
GREATER MANASSAS ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE
@ Historic Old Town Manassas along Center Street
The family-friendly Greater Manassas Saint Patrick’s Day parade route begins at the intersection of Prescott Avenue and Quarry Road near Old Town Manassas. The route follows Prescott Ave around the corner onto Center Street and continues down Center Street to West Street. The parade crosses in
Saturday, March 8
DUELING KEYS
@ Heritage Hunt Golf and Country Club, 6901 Arthur Hills Drive, Gainesville
Experience the thrill of dueling pianos, indulge in delectable hors d’oeuvres, and enjoy beer and wine throughout the evening (mixed drinks will be available for purchase), a three-course sit-down dinner, silent auction and more! Event bene ts Boxes of Basics, nonpro t organization on a mission to empower local children in need with seasonal wardrobes of new and quality gently used clothing packed with dignity, compassion and love.
TIME: 6 p.m. – 11 p.m. • COST: Begins at $150 boxesofbasics.org
Saturday, March 15
SHERIDAN RUITIN’S ST. PATRICK’S TOUR
@ Tin Cannon Brewing Co., 7679 Limestone Drive, Gainesville
Enjoy the lively St. Patrick’s Day party featuring the spirited sounds of Sheridan Ruitin.
TIME: 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. • COST: $20-$25 tincannonbrewing.com
Saturday March 22
PRINCE WILLIAM/ MANASSAS HISTORY SYMPOSIUM
@ Manassas Museum,
Thursday, March 27 – Sunday, March 30
JUST BETWEEN FRIENDS –PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY’S HUGE CHILDREN’S RESALE
@ NOVA Sportsplex, 6966 Wellington Road, Manassas Huge kids’ resale event - Newborn to Teen. Get excellent quality clothing, shoes, accessories, toys, books, games, furniture, all things baby.
TIME: March 27 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.; March 28 10:30 a.m. –7 p.m.; March 29 9 a.m – 7 p.m.; March 30 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
COST: Prices vary jbfpwc.ticketspice.com/jbf-prince-william-countyspring-sale-2025
Saturday, April 5
21ST ANNUAL BALLET BALL
@ The Gregory Theater, Hylton Performing Arts Center, 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas
Black tie optional even supporting Manassas Ballet Theatre. The evening includes cocktail hour, dinner, dancing, silent and live auction, open bar, music by The Kim Reynolds Band.
COST: Prices vary manassasballet.org/ballet-ball
Saturday, April 26
BEN LOMOND DAY
@ Ben Lomond Historic Site, 10321 Sudley Manor Drive, Manassas
Ben Lomond’s history spans centuries, from a Civil War hospital to a presidential retreat to a working farm. Experience the site’s varied history all in one day through talks, demonstrations, activities, games, farm animals, tractors and more.
TIME: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. • COST: Free pwcva.gov/department/historic-preservation
concerned about their financial future, I’d be happy to have a chat with them, just to make sure they’re touching all the bases. TODD KREBS, FINANCIAL ADVISOR CALL 703-539-6814
© Best Version Media
Ohana Means Family: MEET THE HOFFMANS
BY MARIANNE WEAVER | PHOTOS BY THE LITTLE PHOTO SHOP
Scott and Cyndi Ho man met the rst day of freshman orientation at Florida Tech. Together, they’ve moved from Florida to Hawaii then Virginia, cultivated careers – then switched – and extended their Ohana to include two daughters -- Halia and Alani – as well as the many visitors to their family business –Ono Brewing Company – and the group of women Cyndi has connected through her Facebook group, Ladies of Haymarket and Gainesville Social Group.
IN THE BEGINNING
Although Scott and Cyndi met their rst day on campus, they didn’t actually start dating for about three years.
“We went to an engineering school, the guy to girl ratio was like 20 to 1,” said Scott. “Cyndi was the hottest chic at the school. I hit on her every chance I could from the rst day we met at orientation. She always jokes that I had some growing up to do rst, probably true.”
Cyndi said she knew who Scott was, but their social circles didn’t cross often.
“It wasn’t until my senior year of college that I was nally without a serious boyfriend and had an upcoming sorority ball and needed a date,” she said. “My sorority sister had told me often over the years that she thought Scott liked me, but I never paid much attention.”
permission to kiss me. I was hooked from that night on and I had a date for my sorority formal two weeks later!”
Scott has a slightly di erent take on the evening: “Finally, my charm and persistence paid o ! My Joey Tribbiani line, ‘How you doin’?’ nally worked on her. We had a great night and I was nally able to kiss her after all those years! The best part was, I didn’t scare her away with my terrible dancing skills. I think I may have clubbed her in the head a few times on the dance oor.”
Their rst “date” was “tie night” at a bar in Melbourne Beach that o ered free drinks for anyone wearing a tie.
“I worked up the courage to irt with him a bit,” said Cyndi. “We ended up dancing together and had our rst kiss later that evening. He was such a gentleman and asked
Either way, they’ve been together since. Scott switched his major to civil engineering (he also earned an MBA from Webster University), which added a year. Cyndi graduated with bachelor’s degrees in marine biology and molecular biology, then started pursuing her master’s in marine microbiology at the University of Delaware.
“We spent that year apart doing the longdistance thing while he nished his last year at Florida Tech,” she said, adding that Scott, who was in Army ROTC, was commissioned and received his orders: Hawaii. “My mother was born and raised in Hawaii and I still had a lot of family on the island. Going to Hawaii sounded MUCH more exciting than what I was doing in graduate school in Delaware.”
© Best Version Media
She knew her parents wouldn’t be happy if she dropped out of school to “follow some boy to Hawaii,” she said. “Upon hearing this, Scott said, ‘Let’s get married.’To which I responded, ‘Did you just propose?’ And he said, ‘Yes I did.’”
She said yes. They called her parents, who also said yes.
Scott and Cyndi were married in her hometown in upsate New York. They left for Hawaii two days later.
Cyndi’s mother was born and raised in Kahuku, on the island of Oahu. During their time in Hawaii, Scott and Cyndi learned about the Hawaiian culture and traditions from Cyndi’s extended “Ohana” (family). After Scott’s tour ended, they returned to Florida, where they rst met and spent their college days. Cyndi earned her master’s in science education at the University of Central Florida and taught high school biology, while Scott nished his obligation with the Florida National Guard and worked at a small engineering rm. Meanwhile, they began to grow their family.
“Our kids were both born in Florida,” said Cyndi. “Due to our love of Hawaii, and the fact that we started our married life together in Hawaii, they both have Hawaiian names: Halia and Alani.”
In 2011, Scott’s job moved the family to Northern Virginia and they originally settled in Herndon.
“In 2020, with two growing teenage girls, we were looking for something di erent as a family,” said Cyndi. “We wanted a home with a neighborhood pool, areas nearby for walking, and proximity for things to do for our growing teens like shops, movie theaters etc. We fell in love with Virginia Oaks with the gorgeous oak trees lining the main streets. Although the golf course is no longer functioning and is now in the process of going ‘back to nature,’ we are thrilled to have access to the over ve miles of old golf-cart path right out our back.”
Since moving into the neighborhood, Cyndi served on the social committee in the neighborhood and Scott has served on both the pool and rec and technology committees. He was recently elected to a three-year term on the neighborhood HOA board of directors.
Halia is a sophomore at Virginia Tech majoring in biology. She plans to go to veterinary school. Alani is a senior at Gainesville High School and wants to study biomedical engineering in college.
BUILDING A BUSINESS
After ful lling his military obligation, Scott worked for a small engineering company for ve years and then went to work for Harris Corp. as an engineer and program manager for the next 12 years. Cyndi was a high school biology teacher in Florida for 12 years, then another six years in Virginia at Flint Hill School in Oakton .
All this time, Scott was perfecting a hobby he picked up in college.
“Cyndi bought my rst homebrew beer making kit in college. I brewed homebrew batches o and on as a hobby throughout our marriage,” he said. He started in the kitchen, until the stench (and Cyndi) sent him to the basement. But the smell still carried throughout the house and he moved into the garage. “Over the years, we would often invite friends and neighbors over to enjoy my homebrews. They would always comment how good the beer was and joke that we should open a brewery.”
In 2016, the two began toying with the idea of opening a business together. But they hadn’t found the right opportunity.
“We loved going to breweries, but there were very few in our area,” said Scott. After one of their homebrew parties, a neighbor – again – suggested they open a brewery. “We laughed as we usually did, but after the party I said to Cyndi, ‘I want to do it. I want to open a brewery.’”
She agreed. He started working on a business plan. In 2016, he quit his job at Harris Corp. and they signed a lease on a space in Chantilly where they’d create the brewery.
“I served as our general contractor and Cyndi continued to teach high school for that last year,” he said. They opened in September 2017.
Cyndi said they knew they wanted a tropical theme.
“We missed the laid back tiki-bar atmosphere of both Hawaii and Florida where we had each spent the last 19 years,” she said. “We decided to create a tropical oasis in Northern Virginia and our brewery tasting room would have a tropical theme, complete with tiki umbrellas on the patio and a laid-back atmosphere.”
But they were stumped when it came to naming the oasis.
“Our daughter Halia, 10 years old at the time, was ipping through her book of Hawaiian words and she said, ‘What about Ono? Daddy, people say your beer is delicious, you should call your brewery Ono,’” she said. “We loved it!! And Ono Brewing Company was born.”
© Best Version Media
It’s not just the unique name and tropical atmosphere that sets Ono apart from other local breweries. For starters, they o er a selfpour beverage wall where customers pour and pay by the ounce.
“This allows you to be your own bartender and sample beers and only get charged for what you pour,” said Cyndi. “Customers love it!
They’ve also partnered with a fulltime food vendor, Odd BBQ, who operates inside the tasting room seven days a week.
“They serve amazing barbecue that pairs nicely with our beverage options,” said Cyndi. “We also recently got our winery license and plan to be making our own hard cider soon. The winery license allows us to feature wine on our self-pour beverage wall now so customers can now have craft beer, wine, hard seltzer, and hard cider options.”
BEYOND THE BUSINESS
As a family, the Ho mans enjoy hiking together and being outdoors.
“We used to go camping and enjoyed our time as a pop-up camper family until we discovered the world of Airbnb rentals, which were a lot less work than prepping the camper and cleaning up after a camping trip,” said Cyndi. “We enjoy traveling and often incorporate visiting local breweries on our family adventures where the kids get a soft pretzel of pizza and we get to enjoy the local craft beer scene.”
Viriginia Oks neighbors don’t always have to make the short trip to Chantilly, as Scott and Cyndi host Ono Beer Night/Hula Party Potluck at the Clubhouse.
“Since Ono Brewing is a Hawaiian themed brewery, neighbors were invited to come wearing Hawaiian shirts and bring a potluck item and we would bring several kegs of our beer and sell beer samples and full pints while the neighbors gathered over a potluck food and a good beer,” said Cyndi. “We love that our beer brings people together both in our brewery and outside of it!”
Both Ho man girls played softball since the age of 5 for Chantilly youth sports and later Prince William Little League. Alani played a bit in high school, but eventually shifted to focus more on academics, volunteering at the hospital and working. Halia ran track for a bit in high school and was extremely involved in Civil Air Patrol during middle and high school and reached one of the highest ranking positions in the organization. Both girls have held many jobs.
“As the children of entrepreneurs, they both have a very strong work ethic and have held summer jobs and jobs during the school year since they were old enough to work,” said Cyndi, adding that they’ve held down the hostess position at Blueridge Seafood, worked the sun ower and tulip seasons at Burnside Farms, and served as park attendants/ cashiers at SplashDown Waterpark. “Halia worked for a full year as a veterinary assistant at Glenkirk Animal Hospital and still helps out there on college breaks and currently works at a chiropractor’s o ce in Blacksburg. Alani is a host at the Outback in Gainesville and is training to be a server’s assistant.”
Cyndi said she is lucky to have found two wonderful groups within the neighborhood, a book club and a Bunco group. But it’s the Facebook women’s group beyond her neighborhood where she has facilitated networking among local ladies. She started the Ladies of Haymarket and Gainesville Social Group in September.
“I formed the group for sel sh reasons initially because I wanted to meet more like-minded women in my area to hang out with socially,” she said, explaining that when you move to a new area as an adult, it can be di cult to connect with other women socially and to form meaningful friendships. “I was inspired by a Facebook group for women that I found that seemed to be exactly what I was looking for but found that a lot of the activities tended to be more focused in the D.C. area or Loudoun County. I thought, wouldn’t it be great if we had something like that but in my area out in Prince William County? So, since it didn’t exist, I decided to create the group.”
To date, the group has 692 members (and growing).
”I have made so many wonderful connections in the group,” said Cyndi. “Within the main group, I have also created several sub-groups for women in similar ages/stages and with similar interests to connect.”
There are subgroups for expectant moms, new moms, toddler moms, and moms with teens 10 and up. There are groups for stay-at-home-moms, retirees, 20s moms and single ladies. There are also groups for women who like to work out and another for those interested in walking/hiking and outdoor adventures.
“Something I did not anticipate was the joy that I get not only in building a space where I can nd women friends and develop those close personal connections that I crave, but I have helped create a space for so many women to do the same,” said Cyndi. “I think it says a lot about people’s desires to connect beyond the computer screen. You can have 1,000 ‘friends’ on social media, but if they aren’t local and you don’t ever see them in person, then those ‘friendships’ are di erent from close personal friends that you see in person and do things with. My group helps people nd those friends and I love that!”
Creating a More Comfortable Home with Insulation and Dehumidi cation
HOME COMFORT EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR
By Dan Bomar The Property Doctor
A COMFORTABLE HOME starts with the right balance of temperature and humidity. Insulation combined with dehumidi cation can help in achieving this. Proper insulation helps regulate indoor temperature, keeping your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. By preventing heat loss or gain, it also reduces energy costs, making your home more e cient. Common areas to insulate include attics, walls, and crawl spaces.
Dehumidi cation complements insulation by controlling moisture levels. High humidity can make your home feel muggy and promote mold growth, which a ects air quality. A basement or crawl space dehumidi er ensures optimal humidity levels, creating a healthier and more comfortable environment in the rooms above.
By combining e ective insulation with dehumidi cation, you can prevent drafts, reduce allergens, and maintain a steady indoor climate. These upgrades not only improve comfort but also protect your home from long-term structural damage caused by excess moisture.
© Best Version Media
PINK SPACE THEORY Provides Student-Centered, Hands-On STEAM Programs
BY MARIANNE WEAVER
Monica Nichols ranked in the top 10 percent of her high school class, but when she started Michigan State University, she was placed in remedial math. Looking back, she said she realized one of her biggest mistakes was not taking any math or science courses during her senior year. Unfortunately, she didn’t have the mentorship or guidance to help her understand how that decision would impact her future.
Nichols graduated with a Bachelor of Science in engineering arts from Michigan State University, a Master of Science from Virginia Tech and a master’s in curriculum and instruction from Marymount University.
She said starting college already behind in math made her path to becoming an engineer feel uncertain. She said she saw two choices: Let her struggles de ne her or push forward with determination. She pushed ahead, proving that a setback doesn’t have to be a
roadblock. That experience, she said, shaped her belief that grit, perseverance, and the right support system can make all the di erence for students pursuing STEM.
In 2018, she founded Pink Space Theory, a 501c3 organization that provides young learners, especially girls and underrepresented students, with the encouragement, exposure and opportunities they need to thrive.
“At Pink Space Theory, we emphasize that you don’t have to be a math whiz to pursue a STEM degree—you just have to be willing to put in the e ort and believe in yourself,” she said.
SERVING PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY
“We support historically underserved and underrepresented communities in Prince William County’s Title 1 schools,” said Nichols. “Pink Space Theory is currently o ering programs to students at ve elementary schools and three middle schools within PWC. We hope to expand our programs to several other schools in the next year or two.”
The most popular program is GREAT Math Minds, which stands for Girls who are Responsible for their thoughts, Excited about learning new things, and not afraid to Ask questions and Take risks. This is a six-month program o ered to girls in grades 4 and 5 and provides advanced math skills and basic coding skills taught using a ball called “Sphero” Bolt Robot. Students receive an additional three hours a week in math and three hours a month in coding on top of their normal classes. This program is not a remedial program, but rather, it is for those with greater aptitude.
The Make Tech Pink class is also o ered for 4th and 5th grade girls and teaches science, technology, engineering and math using hands-on, engaging activities with a “Sphero” Bolt Robot.
“We strive to enhance technological literacy through hands-on computer programming assignments and to increase awareness of women contributing to the computer science eld,” said Nichols. “The students receive two hours of instruction per week and these lessons align with the Virginia Standards of Learning. The fall program focuses on storytelling using the Sphero and the spring program allows students to design their own game.”
Pink Space Theory also o ers a variety of other opportunities for students, including middle school programs such as STEM-tastic: The Beauty of Science and Engineering, Intro to Green Living, and Pink Space Theory Coders - Storytelling, Game Design and Cybersecurity (o ered to boys and girls).
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
“We have seen signi cant strides in improvement by our students,” said Nichols. “At the beginning of our programs, students take a test
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to determine their math/technology skill level and, at the conclusion of the program, take the same test once again. Ninety-six percent our GREAT Math Minds students experience an average increase of 342 percent on postprogram test scores.”
The program is possible through many strategic partnerships, starting with Prince William County Public School’s Supporting Partnerships and Resources for Kids (SPARK) program.
MISSION:
To expose, engage and empower underserved and underrepresented youth with STEAM learning experiences to prepare them for their future career paths and passions. Pink Space Theory provides youth with student-centered, hands-on STEAM programs that build skills for greater success in school and their professional journey.
“Together, we support programs and initiatives that our students might not have access to otherwise,” said Nichols, adding that Pink Space Theory also relies on businesses and corporate sponsors for nancial support, resource sharing, or collaborative projects. They also work with other nonpro ts that share a similar mission.
“We rely on the generosity of individuals and companies to continue providing high-quality STEAM education,” said Nichols. “We are
exceptionally grateful for the support from corporate, private, and community foundations as they are vital to our success. Donations directly support our STEM programs, enabling us to o er eld trips to expose students to various STEM-related careers, purchase educational materials, and develop new learning initiatives. Every contribution helps us inspire and educate more students in Northern Virginia.”
They also rely on volunteers to keep the program going.
“From classroom assistant to event organization or even role model/ ambassador, together we can ensure all children, regardless of race, income level, or gender, have the opportunities they need to succeed now, and in the future,” said Nichols.
For more information, visit pinkspacetheory.org.
Celebrating the Class of 2025 The 17th Annual Battlefield High School Senior Grad Party
BY JENNIFER MEYERS-HEETER
Photos from the Class of 2024 Senior Grad Party
The countdown has begun for one of the most anticipated events of the year—the 17th Annual Battle eld Senior Grad Party! Organized by the senior grad party committee, a dedicated subcommittee of the Battle eld High School PTO, this event promises to be an unforgettable celebration for the graduating class of 2025.
A TRADITION LIKE NO OTHER
The Senior Grad Party has become a beloved tradition, providing a safe and exciting venue for high school seniors to celebrate the culmination of their hard work, achievements, and friendships. Set to take place this year on Friday, May 30, 2025, at the state-of-the-art Freedom Center, this celebration is designed to give graduates the perfect send-o as they transition from high school to the next chapter of their lives. For more than 300 students, it will be an evening lled with fun, laughter and lasting memories with friends they’ve spent years growing up with.
WHY THE SENIOR GRAD PARTY MATTERS
The signi cance of the Senior Grad Party cannot be overstated. After months of preparation, exams, and the whirlwind that comes with graduation season, students experience a mix of emotions: excitement, relief, nostalgia and anticipation of what’s to come. The party o ers an opportunity for seniors to come together for one last time before embarking on di erent paths, whether that’s college, work, travel or other adventures. What sets this event apart is its unwavering commitment to safety. Organized by both senior and underclass parents, the grad party is designed to be a drug-free, alcoholfree environment. With increasing concerns about unsafe, unsupervised post-graduation parties, the Senior Grad Party o ers a secure, supportive alternative—a celebration where students can relax, have fun, and celebrate their accomplishments without worry.
A NIGHT TO REMEMBER: ENTERTAINMENT AND ACTIVITIES GALORE
Months of meticulous planning by the senior grad party committee ensure this event is nothing short of spectacular. From July onwards, committee members, along with parent volunteers, work tirelessly to create an exciting, engaging atmosphere for the seniors. The Freedom Center will be transformed into a vibrant party space featuring a wide array of activities and entertainment designed to keep everyone engaged all night long.
This year’s festivities include:
• Full access to the Freedom Center pool, complete with water slides, diving boards, Wibit obstacle course, and a jacuzzi (with a full sta of lifeguards on hand all night)
• Casino games like blackjack, poker, roulette, and craps for those looking to try their luck
• Licensed massage therapists providing 10-minute shoulder and neck massages
• Caricature artists ready to capture fun memories
• A photo booth to snap silly or sentimental pictures with friends
• A video game truck for gaming enthusiasts
• Five di erent in atables to keep the fun owing
• Basketball for the athletically inclined.
• And of course, food and drinks are available throughout the night to ensure no one goes hungry
The best part? All activities are included in the price of admission, which starts at just $50 during our early bird ash sale from January 1to March 31. Tickets will remain available for pre-purchase through May 29, so there’s plenty of time to get your ticket!
AMAZING PRIZES AND RAFFLES: EVERYONE’S A WINNER!
What’s a celebration without prizes? For every student who pre-purchases their ticket, there’s an opportunity to win big. We’re o ering ve
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$500 cash prizes at the end of the night, in addition to a range of exciting ra es throughout the event, including gift cards to popular stores, electronics, concert tickets, and much more. To be eligible, students must be present to win, so don’t miss out on your chance to score some incredible prizes!
HOW WE FUND THIS UNFORGETTABLE EVENT
Every year, the committee works hard to raise the funds necessary to pull o this grand celebration, and this year is no exception. With an estimated budget of around $40,000, the event relies on the generosity of parents, local businesses, and donors. The previous graduating class leaves behind valuable funds to help get the party started, but ongoing fundraising e orts ensure the event’s success. Underclass parent volunteers play a vital role in making the senior grad party a success. Their willingness to take on the responsibility of organizing and supervising the event ensures that senior parents can relax without the demands of volunteering. All junior parents who volunteer the night of the party will get a free grad party ticket when their senior graduates in 2026.
Some of the exciting ways we’ve been raising money include:
• Personalized graduation yard signs
• DoubleGood Popcorn sales
• Custom leather gift tags and ornaments from Duke & Clover
• Free holiday gift-wrapping services
• Senior shout-outs
• Free holiday gift-wrapping services
• VIP Golden Ticket Ra e for TWO winners who will receive reserved seating at graduation
• A three-day, two-night trip to Snowshoe Mountain donated by a BHS family
• Photography sessions donated by Miriam Dudley Photography
• $100 VISA gift card
• $50 Gift Certi cate to Olde Dominion Tavern donated by a BHS Family
• Sign Gypsies Bristow lawn sign
• Personalized cookies from Stevi’s Cookies and Salsa Sweets, and more!
Additionally, we’re preparing a senior graduation slideshow to be played at Eagle Bank Arena prior to the graduation ceremony on May 28. Friends and family
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can recognize graduates and purchase $5 shout-outs or submit one free photo for inclusion. This slideshow is also available on our YouTube channel and will be played at the Senior Grad Party.
A NIGHT OF MEMORIES
The Senior Grad Party is more than just an event; it’s a rite of passage. It’s a night to laugh, re ect, and celebrate with classmates who have shared this unforgettable journey. For the Class of 2025, it will mark the end of high school and the exciting beginning of the next chapter in their lives. The memories made that night will last a lifetime, and the friendships will continue to grow long after the party ends.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE
We believe that every student should have the opportunity to attend the Senior Grad Party. If a student needs nancial assistance, they are encouraged to reach out to their school counselor who will reach out to us. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we can o er free tickets to students who need nancial support. The Grad Party Committee is committed to ensuring that every graduate can participate in this important tradition.
If you would like to sponsor a graduates Grad Party ticket, you can do so on our website.
For more details and to purchase tickets, please visit our website: battle eldseniorgradparty.com
Let’s make this a night to remember!
