Neighbors of Lake Manassas - April 2020 by sweetbaypublishing

April 2020

An exclusive publication serving residents of Lake Manassas, Virginia Oaks, Morris Farms, Saranac, Glenkirk Estates and surrounding areas.

Life is a Ball: The Weinschenk Family Also Inside: Honoring Our Heroes - pg. 12 The Best Ways to have a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Run-cationâ&#x20AC;? - pg. 24 Gainesville Travel Girls Basketball Highlights - pg. 15 Cover photo by The Little Photo Shop Neighbors of Lake Manassas

April 2020

Publication Team Publisher................Michael & Debbie Wykowski Content Coordinator..............Marianne Weaver Designer..............................................Jody Zipp Contributing Photographer......Melinda Ratcliff The Little Photo Shop

Behind the Scenes Debbie and Michael Wykowski, Publishers

Marianne Weaver Content Coordinator

Advertising Contact: Michael and Debbie Wykowski Email: mwykowski@bestversionmedia.com or dwykowski@bestversionmedia.com Phone: 703-203-9130 Feedback/Ideas/Submissions: Have feedback, ideas or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: mweaver@ bestversionmedia.com. HOA Submission Information Are you on the association board for your subdivision? Contact us for information on how you can submit articles, updates, reminders, events and more to the residents. We create customized homeowners’ association sections at no cost to the HOA or the residents.

I feel as though I’m working on three issues of the magazine at all times. First, there’s the issue that arrived in my mailbox (and the emails it generates). At the same time, I’m usually finalizing the next month’s issue. To avoid getting in a hole, I also try to write and schedule stories two months in advance. Sometimes I don’t even know what month it is. But not this time. I am writing this letter on Friday, March 13. My son just walked in and announced that “spring break” will last until April 13. That means we—and every other family in the county (and beyond)—are now homeschoolers. But without any “field trips.” No Boy Scout meetings. No dance classes. No band practices. This is our new normal … at least for a month. Drop me an email and let me know how your family is doing. Let us know about any new traditions you’ve started. Send me pictures of your kids’ antics (because I’m sure there will be many). I hope and pray that by the time you’re reading this issue everything has returned to normal. If you’re planning to attend an event listed in our calendar, please call ahead to make sure it is not canceled. Stay safe my neighbors!

Marianne Weaver

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

April 2020

Neighbors of Lake Manassas

April 2020

Expert Contributors Dental Gainesville Dental Associates 571-290-2647 Gainesvilledentalassociates.com

Family Entertainment & Recreation THRILL ZONE - Interactive Fun Dr. K. Nadeem Ahmed 703-901-0194 | ThrillZoneFun.com

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

Early Childhood Education Primrose School of Haymarket Georgia P Wiley 703-754-2800 | Team@PrimroseHaymarket.com www.PrimroseHaymarket.com Georgia, owner of the Primrose School of Haymarket, also owns and operates the Primrose School at Ironbridge Corner. Because of the Wiley’s struggle to find quality care for their own three children, Georgia knew exactly what she was looking for when she opened a child care center - a school like Primrose. Georgia says, “As the owner, ... I recognize the importance of creating a safe, nurturing and healthy environment for the children. I also seek to create a work environment that allows our educators to excel in their passion for teaching young children, and the Primrose curriculum offers just that opportunity.”

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

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

Family Medicine Lifetime Family Medicine 703-754-0425 www.facebook.com/LifetimeFamilyMedicine Lifetime Family Medicine, a proud member of the Privia Medical Group, is based in Gainesville. They have three doctors, two physician assistants, and one nurse practitioner, including Dr. Theresa Shupe, voted a 2017 Top Doctor by Washingtonian Magazine. Comments from their patients include “definitely the best doctors’ office I have been to,” “always so friendly and helpful,” and “They make the experience as quick and easy as possible.”

Financial Advisor Tyson McClenny - Edward Jones Investments Tyson McClenny 571-248-4858 tyson.mcclenny@edwardjones.com As an Edward Jones financial advisor, I enjoy the opportunity to partner with individuals, families and small businesses in our community. We use an established process to build personalized strategies to help you achieve your goals. Whether it’s planning for retirement, saving towards college or just trying to protect the financial future of the ones that we care the most, understanding what’s important to you is what’s important to me.

HGBACorner Why Join HGBA? • Networking - Find new business or find a local, trusted source to help your business grow. • Community Involvement - Give back to our community through partnerships with local organizations. • Marketing - Through our directories, community outreach, and mobile app we bring attention to our local businesses. • Value - No other area business organization delivers the combination of business opportunity, marketing and voice for a nominal membership fee.

Learn more about HGBA: Download the Wild Apricot Member app use: Login hgbaguest@hgba.biz Password hgba1234 Visit hgba.wildapricot.org

April 2020

Neighbors of Lake Manassas

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

Hair and Salon Iva Bella Salon James Cornwell (540) 216-3653 | www.ivabella.com James is the Creative Director and leader of the Iva Bella artist team. He is a gifted Master Hair Designer, Makeup Artist, and Stylist. Known for making his clients feel and look amazing, he is a sought-after talent for the every-day woman as well as celebrities, musicians, and beauty industry peers. A master of his craft and on the constant quest to push boundaries with innovative techniques, James is involved in all stages of creating your Iva Bella experience.

Heating, Cooling and Plumbing Appleton Campbell Featured Employee: Jason Anderson 540-347-0765 | appletoncampbell.com “Working at Appleton Campbell in my 10th year has been great. I love the family friendly atmosphere and the customer service culture” said by Jason Anderson, HVAC Service Manager. Appleton Campbell is a Class A contractor with masters in HVAC, Plumbing, gas fitter and electrical. Visit appletoncampbell.com to learn more.

Hospitality & Recreation Stonewall Golf Club / Brass Cannon Restaurant Gary Huebner, PGA 703.753.5101 | 703.753.6140 www.stonewallgolfclub.com Stonewall Golf Club and its Brass Cannon Restaurant offer recreation and hospitality in an unparalleled setting overlooking the picturesque Lake Manassas. Often mistaken as a private club, our facility and all its amenities are open to the public, and all are welcome! The recently updated Magnolia Room and adjacent Terrace provide an expansive space for private events, weddings or meetings. The Brass Cannon offers quality casual dining with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the course and lake. Our awardwinning golf course challenges your game as you play along the shores of Lake Manassas. We welcome you to visit us!

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.

Orthodontics TEEM Orthodontics Dr. Madueke Ekoh 703-753-4777 | teemortho.com Dr. Ekoh’s journey started in Nigeria, obtaining his PreBachelors 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 Ashley Tauzier Berkshire Hathaway Home Services PenFed Realty Cell: 571-469-0901 | Office: 703-396-6000 ashley@mynorthernvarealtor.com Ashley Tauzier is a realtor and 19-year military spouse. Her knowledge of NoVA neighborhoods, builders, schools and community amenities contributes to her value. She prides herself in being attentive and responsive to her client’s needs – striving to make your real estate transaction stress-free, whether you are a first time home-buyer or a seasoned seller. Ashley looks forward to helping you reach your real estate goals!

By Doug Burum, President The members of HGBA would like to invite all local businesses to our next meeting hosted by the Van Gils Law Firm, along with the Gloria Faye Dingus Music Alliance at their Center for the Arts and Music located at 92 Main Street, Suite 104, Warrenton, Tuesday, April 21 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Neighbors of Lake Manassas

April 2020

Resident Feature

my dad took Jim golfing and he’s been golfing ever since.” She said he travels the world playing golf courses. His most recent trip was to Ireland. When Jim’s dad passed away in 2012 he and his younger town brothers each bought a motorcycle so they could ride together in their free time. Jim works as a loan manager for Prosperity Home Mortgage in Chantilly. Amy spends a lot of time cheering for her boys, but she is also very active. She said she loves dancing, Pilates, shopping and spending time with her friends. She is the general manager of Dominion Valley Owners Association in Haymarket. Although the Weinschenks support each other’s teams, they’re not all on the same page when it comes to professional sports. Jim was born in New York; Amy was born in New Jersey. They and their boys were raised to be Giants fans.

Life is a Ball (baseball, basketball, football, …)

The Weinschenk Family

By Marianne Weaver | Photos by The Little Photo Shop

Football fields, baseball diamonds, basketball courts … even ski slopes – these are the mostly likely places to find Jim and Amy; CJ,16; Carter, 13; and Caden, 8, Weinschenk. “We attend a lot of sporting events,” said Amy. “Whether it’s watching our boys play sports or going to support their friends play. The boys love to watch any of their favorite teams play live.” CJ is a sophomore at Patriot High School, where he plays center for the football team. He also plays for Gainesville basketball and his team just recently won the 10th grade division. “He’s grown up playing for Grizzlies football,” said Amy. “He plays basketball with Gainesville Basketball Association and also works as a referee for GBA.”

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Neighbors of Lake Manassas

Carter is a seventh grader at Gainesville Middle School, where he is captain of the JV basketball team. They just ended their season undefeated 10-0 and were named regional champions.

“At about the age of 3, CJ was watching a N.Y. Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles game,” said Amy. “CJ realized rooting for the opposing team got a huge reaction from daddy. From that moment on he has been a diehard Philadelphia Eagles fan and no amount of bribing could get him to change his mind His most memorable moments were going to a NY Giants vs Eagles game and watching the Eagles bring home the Superbowl championship.” Home Court: Glenkirk Estates The Weinschenks moved into Glenkirk Estates in 2003. “We love the feel of a small community,” said Amy. “Our neighbors are some of our best friends and we love that everyone watches out for each other’s kids. The schools are absolutely amazing that all the boys attend and we feel very lucky to live here.” Jim and Amy both moved to Virginia when they were 13.

Jim was born in New York but lived in Connecticut until he was 13. His family moved south and he was in the first graduating class from Centreville High School, where he played basketball, baseball and football. Amy was raised in New Jersey on the same street where her parents met. She left behind her Catholic school and frequent trips to the Jersey shore when her father was transferred to Woodbridge. “Life was pretty great and uneventful until we moved to NOVA when it was discovered I had stage 4 Leukemia after living here for six months,” she said. “I’m a big believer in everything happens for a reason. I truly believe that my dad was transferred here so I could get the medical care I needed to beat childhood cancer at Children’s Hospital in DC.” After her cancer was in remission, they moved to Lancaster, Pa., where she lived until she left for college … Radford University. Jim also attended Radford. “We met at Radford University at BT’s, a local restaurant, through mutual friends,” said Amy. “We went tubing down the New River and that was the moment I knew Jim could keep me laughing throughout life.” Amy earned a degree in in liberal arts with a minor in psychology and Jim majored in communications. After graduation, the families went for a vacation in Myrtle Beach. “I remember being so nervous walking on the beach that I would drop the ring and lose it before I proposed,” said Jim. They were married in 1998 at Bent Creek Country Club in Lancaster, Pa. “We were the first out of all of our friends to get married as we were very young,” said Jim. “I had one job to do, which was to

“He has played for Gainesville travel basketball since third grade and started rec basketball as early as he could,” said Amy. “Carter also played football for Gainesville Grizzlies and baseball for GHBL.” Caden is in the third grade at Glenkirk Elementary School. He plays travel baseball for the Prince William Cardinals and he also plays basketball for Gainesville Basketball Association and he was recently selected as an all-star player, which means he will represent his team in an allstar game against other third graders. Jim is a Board Member of Gainesville Basketball Association as well as the boy’s 7th grade travel coach. He also represents Gainesville Travel on the board for FCYBL. Amy said when he’s not coaching, he’s playing golf. “When Jim and I met I specifically asked him if he played golf he replied, ‘No it’s too boring.’ Famous last words,” she said. “I was relieved as my mom has always been a golf widow on the weekends. Within a month after meeting, Neighbors of Lake Manassas

April 2020

go pick up our tuxedos and have all my groomsman try them on. We got there about 10 minutes before they closed tried them on and then we were off to celebrate. As Amy came down the aisle on our wedding day the first thing, she asked me was what were we wearing. We got the wrong tuxedos and we still laugh about it today.” Against All Odds Jim and Amy said they always knew they wanted to have children. But doctors cautioned the couple that Amy’s chemotherapy might hinder her ability to conceive. “When we found out we were expecting our first son we were beyond excited,” said Amy. “Everything went really well with the pregnancy. CJ’s birth was tough but he was a very healthy happy boy.” Two years later, Carter was born on Friday, the 13th. “Everyone asked why we would ever choose that date,” said Amy. “We chose that date because Jim was also born on October 13th and they would share their birthday. Carter was born with no complications and he was just perfect.” Amy said the boys were the best of friends. But, she said, she felt the family wasn’t complete. And then she found out she was pregnant. “Everyone joked Jim was trying to field his own basketball team,” she said. “Caden was born July 15, 2011, a few days before my birthday.” But this birth didn’t go as smoothly as the others. Amy suffered an extreme loss of blood and was rushed into emergency surgery. “This was very difficult for me as I was trying to balance spending time with Caden as well as making sure Amy was going to be OK,” said Jim. Amy didn’t meet Caden until she woke up in ICU days later.

“Caden was the chubbiest happiest healthy baby I had ever seen,” she said. He weighed in at 9lbs 9 oz and I knew was going to give his big brothers a run for their money. He was truly the happiest baby.”

Surgery lasted for hours. “When they called us in to recovery, we didn’t know what to expect,” said Amy. “I remember taking a deep breath before entering to see Caden. The doctor who did his surgery said he decided to take a chance and not amputate his leg.”

Life with three young boys was busy, but beautiful … until April 2013. “Caden woke up screaming like I had never heard before. I immediately knew something was terribly wrong,” said Amy, who packed up her 20-month old baby and went to the pediatrician. She said he screamed whenever someone touched his thigh. Suspecting a break, the doctor ordered an X-ray and sent them home. “By the time we got home, his breathing became shallow and he spiked a high fever,” she said. “We took him to the emergency room. His fever was 104 and his heart rate was through the roof.” After an examination, the doctors questioned Amy about a rash on his leg. She told them a dermatologist diagnosed it as eczema. The ER doctors, she said, suspected the rash was somehow tied to his current illness and ordered additional testing. “Within an hour, things rapidly got worse and they said were going to transport Caden to Children’s Hospital in D.C.,” she said. “My heart immediately dropped as I had been a patient there 20 years earlier. I knew they treated the sickest of the sick and things were extremely serious.” Caden and Amy rode in the ambulance with Jim following behind. “I just started praying for my baby as he was going in and out of consciousness,” said Amy, who then realized the older boys would soon arrive home from school. “I literally made one text and ‘my girls,’ as I call them and they sprang into action. They had it all taken care of.”

Caden stayed in the hospital for weeks. He improved slowly and the blood clots disappeared. He was released shortly before Mother’s day.

Eventually, the entire family gathered at the hospital to await the test results. “I remember feeling so helpless as a father,” said Jim. “I was supposed to have all the answers and protect my child but in this instance I was helpless. Thank God for amazing friends and family who were helping us try to keep it together while the doctors were working on Caden.” The medical team found that Caden had MRSA in his bloodstream, which had gotten in his leg from scratching his eczema. He was transferred into the PICU. Jim said the MRSA had dissolved the bone in his leg and he also had multiple blood clots. “Our friends started a Facebook group called Prayers for Caden to help keep everyone updated and to have people pray for our baby,” said Jim. Giuseppe’s restaurant had an emergency fundraiser to raise funds for the hospital bills and the Gainesville Grizzlies started a kids helping kids campaign for Caden.

“The best gift I could have ever dreamed of was to be home with all my boys,” said Amy. “We came home to banners welcoming Caden home. Our neighborhood had taken care of meals for months for us so we could focus on Caden and our family. We can honestly say without the support of our local community, friends and family we could have never gotten through this. We are truly blessed to be a member of this community and can’t thank everyone enough for everything they have done.” The road to recovery was long. Caden couldn’t walk. He faced additional surgeries. And doctors said he would never play sports. “Against all odds, after years of physical therapy, I am proud to report that Caden is the most courageous travel baseball player I know,” said Amy. “His journey is still going to be tough but with the love and support we know we have we will be just fine.” She said the family has adopted a motto: Live life today as tomorrow isn’t guaranteed.

“Jim and I were just in amazement of how our community came together so quickly to help,” said Amy. But Caden wasn’t responding to the medication and he continued to worsen. Amy took leave from her job as a senior portfolio manager at a local community management company and never left his side. Jim drove home to Gainesville each night to be with the older boys. “He left reluctantly not knowing if Caden was going to make it through the night,” said Amy. “It was very difficult to leave, but CJ and Carter also needed their parents as well.” Amy said the doctors initiated treatment with the strongest medications they had. “One nurse asked us if we were spiritual. She said she would pray hard if he was her baby,” said Amy. “I knew this could be the end for our baby boy. We prayed like never before and asked for everyone’s prayers. People from other states and countries who we never met prayed for our sweet Caden. He went on the prayer list at Holy Trinity Church.” As a last-ditch effort, Amy said the doctors decided to perform a surgery to clean out the infected area. She and Jim had to give permission to amputate Caden’s leg if they deemed it necessary to save his life. “There are no words that can describe that feeling of not knowing if your son will live or die and if this would alter his life forever,” said Jim. “Amy and I recalled Caden’s first word being ‘ball.’ We knew his future would be so tough without his leg.”

April 2020

Neighbors of Lake Manassas

April 2020

Expert Contributor

Choosing the Right Dance Studio Photos by Henry Oviedo Choosing the right dance studio for your young dancer can be a daunting task. There is a long list of things that should be considered—instructor expertise, location, tuition, the goal of dance lessons, plus recommendations from neighbors and friends among them. This article is intended to help you navigate through some of these questions to find the very best dance home for your family. A solid foundation of ballet technique applies to all dancers (even a Broadway dancer needs solid ballet technique) —it assures future success for students

who may decide to pursue dance while providing recreational dancers with quality, safe instruction. Do not be afraid to ask questions at a prospective studio, have your dancer take a trial class, and observe classes at different levels of training. If you see students working hard and smiling, a relaxed yet structured environment, and teachers who converse with you and carefully guide students, it is a good start. When joining a dance studio, you are entrusting the care, health and development of your child to the instructors. Therefore, I recommend paying close attention to each individual who will potentially work with your

and certified. Dance students, even at an advanced level, are not qualified instructors, so make sure that those leading your young dancer have been trained to teach. By Kalie Lasley Lasley Centre for the Performing Arts

young dancer. The world of professional ballet is a mystery to most parents, so how do you vet an instructor and read between the lines of a teacher’s credentials? While investigating the studio’s website, start by reading through the teacher profiles; look for training highlights, where did they train and with whom? Do they have professional performance experience with a major national or international company? What teaching certifications do they possess? Often an endless list of former instructors is a sign of filler for a bio. A child’s body is malleable and can be easily damaged by well-meaning but unqualified instructors, so certainly the teacher should be trained

We hear parents say, “I will take my child to a professional school if they decide that they are serious about dance.” While this sounds logical, there are some holes in this line of thought. Correcting or undoing poor training or muscle memory can be extremely challenging. Also, children become attached to their schools, fellow dancers, and teachers, and it can be hard to move on to a new studio with a new dance family. Giving the gift of solid dance training opens a

world of possibilities for your child. So start your young dancer at a good studio early on. Another thing that we hear parents say is, ”I just want my child to have fun,” as if quality instruction negates fun! This is quite to the contrary. When students are placed in a loving, structured environment with qualified teachers who love what they do and understand the developmental level of the children whom they teach, the outcome produces physically and mentally sound and happy dancers who are poised to realize their greatest potential. While location and tuition are factors to consider when choosing a home studio for today’s busy families, the best studio

for your small dancers may not be the closest. I would recommend visiting (and researching) all of the studios you are considering in the area before settling on one. You may find an extra 10 minutes in the car provides your child with an extraordinary dance experience and for that, it is well worth it. Ultimately, the goal is to provide quality instruction for your investment of time and resources and secure a positive environment at a school where long-term friendships will thrive. Good dance instruction will imbue grace, poise, self-confidence, an excellent work ethic and discipline into your son’s or daughter’s life and provide them with a lifetime of benefit.

po box 164 nokesville va 20182 FOR ALL YOU HOME ELECTRICAL NEEDS, CALL 703-594-3913! IT RUNS IN OUR FAMILY, IT WILL RUN IN YOURS.

April 2020

Neighbors of Lake Manassas

April 2020

Charity Spotlight

Honoring Our Heroes By Marianne Weaver The Rotary Club of Gainesville-Haymarket will be conducting their annual Flags for Heroes display and Ceremony over Flag Day Weekend, June 12-15 at the Town of Haymarket Park, 14710 Washington Street, Haymarket. The community ceremony to commemorate this year’s Field of Flags will be held Saturday, June 13 at 9 a.m. with local dignitaries and honoree’s in the Haymarket Town Park. Flags for Heroes honors and displays a field of American flags for veterans, veteran spouses, firefighters, police officers, teachers, or any hero who an individual or group may want to honor past or present.

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Neighbors of Lake Manassas

This year’s benefactor to Flags For Heroes is Making Everything Good, a Haymarket-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was formed in 2018 to assist and support the needs of individuals, families and organizations associated with public safety, military and the local community. Co-founder Meg Hawkins is a dedicated public servant with 15 years of law enforcement experience. Co-founder Eric Provow is a retired combat veteran with 20 years of special operations military service. He is currently a firefighter and paramedic. For more information about Making Everything Good visit www.makingeverythinggood.org.

Sponsorships are available through the Gainesville Haymarket Rotary Club. For sponsorship information, contact Shannon at shannonheath12@gmail.com or Dan at dkasmierski@gmail.com. Rotary International is the world’s first service club organization, with more than 1.2 million members in 33,000 clubs worldwide. Rotary club members are volunteers who work locally, regionally and internationally to combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, provide education and job training, promote peace, and eradicate polio under the motto Service Above Self. The Gainesville-Haymarket Rotary club meets every Wednesday from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. at the Piedmont Clubhouse in Haymarket. Coffee and fellowship begin at 7:15 a.m. Breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m. after the opening activities.

Neighbors of Lake Manassas

April 2020

9 Tips for House Hunting with Kids School ratings/districts School ratings are typically on the minds of most in search of a new home. This is because home values can correlate to the ratings of the schools the home is zoned for. For a home buyer with children, great school ratings may be on the top of their must have list. Moving to a new area can be difficult when you do not know the. school zones and ratings. Don’t worry, there are many websites that can help you by searching your zoned school to get ratings and reviews of other local parents. Neighborhood, other families? The last thing you want to do is move into a new house with your kids then learn that your neighbors are the “get off my lawn, kid” type of people. Children are just learning their way in the world—while they typically don’t mean to be disrespectful to a neighbor’s property, they all can have their moments. Survey the neighborhood, get to know your potential neighbors and ask your Realtor if they know anyone on the street. Another thing to keep in mind is whether or not you want other families around. Some people love having children all over the neighborhood for their kids to play with whenever they want. Others would rather have distance between homes and make planned playdates with local kids. Be sure to take your preference into account when choosing a location. Amenities, pool, playground? Close your eyes and picture this: A hot summer day with the kids out of school. The weather is gorgeous, the kids are complaining of boredom, you haven’t gotten peace and quiet

Expert Contributor

or a clean house since school let out. By Ashley Tauzier You begin with the “what if’s?” What Tauzier Properties if we had gone with the house that had the playground right across the street? What if we had those neighborhood pool passes? What if I had gone with the house that had everything we needed not just on the inside, but around it too? Well ... maybe next time. Don’t let that picture become true. Keep in mind all the community amenities you want for your family and hold out until you find them! You won’t regret it. Criminals/predators We all want to feel safe in our own home. When we have kids, that feeling just intensifies. You can do a simple google search or look up the National Sex Offender Registry. Enter the address of the home you are considering and any possible concerns will pop up. In a world where safety is always a concern, take the time to do the research around the area of your potential new home. Yard for the kids? If you’re looking to move to a city or a busy street, keep in mind you may need/want a fenced yard for the kids (or dogs) to stay safe in. The best thing is to be able to yell at the kids to get off their phones and go play in the yard! If it’s fenced in, you will have peace of mind that they will stay put and out of the road! Try keeping your eyes peeled for a fenced yard or an area that would be easy to fence. Where are the bedrooms located? One thing that is super important to me is having bedrooms all on the same level. Some parents care one way or another, others don’t. Just be sure to weigh the pros and cons and plan whose room is where. Being on the same floor as my kids is a

comfort for many reasons. When they were younger, I wanted to be able to hear them when they cried or had a bad dream. If there is an emergency, I want to be close and reach them when needed. Playroom/basement? Having a spare room or a basement is a perfect space for the playroom. You may not think that you need to have either of these spaces in your house, but there are many benefits to take into account. For one, it is much healthier for children to keep their toys in a room outside of their bedroom. This keeps their room just for sleeping and relaxing. Secondly, playrooms make playdates so much easier! You just send the kids on in and know that they are occupied. Thirdly, and my favorite, they keep your house cleaner! Having one room that you can throw all the stuff your kids leave around the house keeps everything else in order. At the end of the day, everyone’s must-have list will vary from person to person. Luckily, living in such a diverse area of Northern Virginia, there is a house for everyone! Happy house hunting!

Sports Corner

Gainesville Travel Girls Basketball

Win Big

Photographs courtesy of the Gainesville Basketball Association Board of Directors Gainesville Travel Girls 6th Grade A Team Wins Title Talent, teamwork and determination is what kept Gainesville Travel’s Girls 6th Grade A Team pushing full speed ahead. With a regular season record of 11-3 and some crucial wins, Team Holder finished as FCYBL Regular Season Champions...but they didn’t stop there. They stayed focused, kept their eyes on the ultimate prize, and wrapped up the year in style by earning the coveted title of FCYBL 2019-20 Girls 6th grade Division 1 Tournament Champions! “Gainesville on 3... 1-23 Gainesville!” Gainesville Travel Girls 7th Grade A team Finishes Undefeated Gainesville Travel Girls 7th Grade A team finished the 2019/2020 FCYBL season undefeated in regular season play and are the 2020 FCYBL 7th grade DII league tournament champions with a combined record of 16-0. They completed a perfect season with a 47-46 win in the tournament’s championship game.

April 2020

Neighbors of Lake Manassas

April 2020

Sponsored by The Goddard School

Kids Corner

Piney Branch Cardinals Got Talent Photographs by Heather Morrissey

Jillian Leone danced to “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston.

The Piney Branch Elementary School PTO presented Cardinals Got Talent Friday, Feb. 28. Here are some of the highlights.

Ryley Summers danced to “The Nutcracker Suite, OP. 71: Pas de Deux.

Brodie Cottrell offered some impressions.

St. Katharine Drexel Boots & Bowties By Casey Parker Photos by Joe Cashwell of Haymarket Joe Photography St. Katharine Drexel (SKD) Catholic Mission held its fourth annual Mardi Gras Ball on Saturday, Feb. 22 at the Piedmont Club. The theme was “Boots & Bowties.” The highlight of the evening included a surprise auction item: SKD pastor Father Murphy shaving his beard! Guests danced the night away to the Wil Gravatt Band and enjoyed the fellowship of SKD parishioners and friends while raising more than $36,000 for the SKD building fund.

Top: Father Chris Murphy Right: Cindy Sivick, Kendall Parker and John Yates

SKD is a Catholic mission church with more than 450 registered families that has been meeting in a school cafeteria/gym since 2000. SKD is raising funds to build a church building on the corner of Route 15 and Waterfall Road in Haymarket.

Piney Branch teachers performed a surprise dance during the Piney Branch Cardinals Got Talent show.

In the four years this event has been held, it has donated more than $140,000 to SKD building efforts.

Vice principal Steve Thorne, musical director of Cardinals Got Talent showed off his own talents on the drums.

Sienna Shahateet sang “Part of Your World” from Little Mermaid.

Mrs. Harrison sang “Defying Gravity” from the Musical Wicked. Lizzy Houchens sang “Shake if Off” by Taylor Swift. Mya Washington, danced to “ABC” by The Jackson 5. Addison Yamagata sang “Mom” by Megan Trainor.

“The Glowing Angels,” Addyson Sheetz and Savannah Roehn danced on hover boards to “Faded” by Alan Walker.

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Neighbors of Lake Manassas

April 2020

Real Estate Statistics

Real Estate SOLDS ADVERTISED SUBDIVISION.............. ADDRESS........................................BEDS..........BATHS.......... HALF BATHS................. SOLD Bridlewood................................................ 8481 Tackhouse Loop...........................4....................... 3............................... 1............................$375,000 Bridlewood................................................ 13803 Bridlewood Drive....................4....................... 2............................... 1............................$515,000 Broad Run Oaks........................................ 8302 Double Eagle Street................4....................... 3............................... 1............................$515,000 Broad Run Oaks........................................ 12077 Maidenhair Drive.....................4....................... 2............................... 1............................$540,000 Broad Run Oaks........................................ 13063 Sterling Point Drive..............4....................... 3............................... 1............................$550,000 Glenkirk Estates....................................... 8712 Harefield Lane.............................4....................... 3............................... 1............................$475,000 Glenkirk Estates....................................... 14080 Albert Way....................................4....................... 3............................... 1............................$540,000 Glenkirk Estates....................................... 13834 Estate Manor Drive.................5....................... 4............................... 1............................$650,000 Lake Manassas.......................................... 15872 Spyglass Hill Loop..................5....................... 4............................... 1............................$902,000 Lakeview Estates...................................... 7709 Ontario Road................................3....................... 2............................... 0............................$375,000 Lakeview Estates...................................... 7809 Ontario Road................................6....................... 3............................... 0............................$425,000 Meadows At Morris Farm.................. 14101 Catbird Drive...............................3....................... 3............................... 1............................$417,000 Meadows At Morris Farm.................. 8883 Yellow Hammer Drive..............5....................... 3............................... 1............................$525,000 Meadows At Morris Farm.................. 8937 Kingbird Court.............................4....................... 3............................... 1............................$555,000 Rocky Run..................................................... 8259 Shimmering Rock Road...........3....................... 3............................... 1............................$470,000 Rocky Run..................................................... 14011 Flying Feather Court............5....................... 3............................... 1............................$499,900 The Regents At Lake Manassas....... 8089 Tysons Oaks Court....................5....................... 3............................... 1............................$637,500 Virginia Oaks.............................................. 8175 Landfall Court...........................5....................... 3............................... 1............................$494,000 Virginia Oaks.............................................. 8033 County Down Court................5....................... 3............................... 1............................$570,000 Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.

A Candy-less Easter Basket as a new rain coat, rain boots and a gift card to an indoor activity that can be done on a rainy day (such as the movies, Dave & Busters). Depending on the age of the child, it could be a family-oriented activity, or maybe one your child can “treat” their friend to that day. You could even use a gardening bag as your basket and fill with small herb garden kits!

By Erin Mann, Registered Health and Nutrition Coach (The Nourished Fern) and creator of Raising Tiny Healthy Humans Easter is just right around the corner! It’s one of my favorite times of the year because it rings in the Spring season and brings out lovely family traditions, including Easter baskets! Whatever your Easter style or budget, there’s always some good ideas for alternatives to a full-on sugar filled basket. Here are some ideas! 1. Theme Baskets- choose something your child loves, or that fits the season. Umbrellas are trending for an an Easter basket, so you could fill it with rainy-spring day things, such

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Neighbors of Lake Manassas

2. Food is still a great option; you can just pick healthier alternatives or stroll the aisles and find some fun packaging that might get them to try something new! Staples are: dark chocolate covered nuts, applesauce, oranges (you could even cut out some paper and make it look like a bunny), dried fruit, and natural fruit bars/strips. Don’t forget about that hollow milk chocolate bunny! I am all about moderation, and I feel that no basket should be without a little tradition! 3. Trinkets/Games: These can be as cheap or as expensive as your budget prefers, and all tailored around your child’s age. It could be stickers, bubbles, hot wheel cars, chalk, playdough, lipgloss, body washes/ lotions, a customized water bottle, nail polish, fun socks, etc. One of my

favorite Easter basket treats is LEGO. They do sets for every holiday, and for a decent price. Easter this year has a bunny, lamb, and a duck. It’s easy for little kids to put together (my son is 4 and he can), but fun for older kids who are collectors. 4. For the older kids, or your college aged kids, the best idea is money. It doesn’t have to be a lot, of course, but it’s something they will actually use and your money won’t go to waste! Just find a unique way to gift it, so it makes it more fun for you to give and them to receive, such as putting them in plastic Easter egg. Some companies actually fill a giant balloon in the shape of an egg and can suspend rolled dollars in them. When building your basket list, remember there are a lot of local businesses that hand make or provide items mentioned, so think about shopping local! No matter how you celebrate your Easter basket tradition, your child will love it and remember it well until adulthood. Now it’s time for me to go grab the basket my Grandfather made for me, that I now use to fill and leave out for my son!

Neighbors of Lake Manassas

April 2020

Top 10 Tips for a Run-cation

to pack to keep warm in the corrals. Hit up the Goodwill store before coming so you have a sweatshirt to ditch along the racecourse. Pro-Tip: the volunteers will pick up any clothing found along the course and donate it to local Orlando shelters. Do you have to run in costumes? – the answer is No, but people do. And some people go all out. Just make sure whatever you do, you are comfortable running whatever your distance is in that outfit. That means you should give your costume a test run to see if anything needs to be fixed.

By Jenn Lalli

4. Know your Goal – are you just trying to finish? Are you going for a personal record? Will you be breaking up your run with some walking? How many character pictures are you trying to get? Are you stopping for food and a drink to carry over the finish line? Are you going to ride any attractions? Yes, you can RIDE attractions if they are open and you think you have enough time

One of my favorite types of vacations are RunDisney events. I know I sound like a crazy person, right? Who actually likes to run, long distances, and back to back to back and sometimes another back? You have to be a little Dopey to do that. But I am telling you these run cations have been some of the most memorable vacations for my husband and me. They are not your average ones, but man are they fun! Now, before we get to the tips let talk about the planning. Yes, you can call your Simple Luxuries Travel Agent and have them book your RunDisney vacation for you. We can get your bib and vacation package (minimum two-night stay) so you don’t have to worry about being online at a set time. All you need to provide is the $200 deposit (just like any vacation package) and your bib registration (with an email address for each person running). After that, Simple Luxuries Travel agents will take care all dining, fast passes and final payment dates. You can focus on training.

And now my top 10 tips for a memorable RunDisney event. Let’s start at the beginning…. 1. Train – I know this does not sound like fun, but you are putting a lot of money into this vacation (bibs, hotel, food, theme park tickets, transportation) and no one wants to get swept off the course. Those balloon ladies keep a 16-minute pace and you do not want to see them bringing up the back of the pack. Now, don’t completely freak out, the balloon ladies are some of the sweetest and kindest people you will meet. They will encourage you to keep doing your best for as long as they can. They start at the very end of the last corral and keep a 16-minute pace. If you train you can DO THIS! Not everyone runs, read that again: Not everyone one runs. It’s OK to walk or even do a combination of walk/run intervals. Only you know what is best for you – so train how you will race. Nothing new on race day!

5. GEAR Check—Pack your flipflops, slides or sandals of some form; your feet will thank you. You can check anything you will want/need for after the race or anything that you will use at the beginning that you want back (until you check the bag). I check a shirt to change out of or put over, flip-flops, portable charger/cord, cash and my RunDisney souvenir refillable beer cup (there is a fee to refill). Cheers! 6. Food and Photos – yes there will be food for purchase before and after the races. However, each runner will get a snack box, banana, water bottle and Powerade bottles. These are covered by your registration fee.

Characters will be out for photos before, during and after the race. So, if you did not get a photo with a character before the start, you can find them after. Also, Disney will have official photo-pass photographers out taking race photos along the way, make sure your bib is in front and visible. 7. Alarms – set two and then set two more … plus call for a wake up. RunDisney events are EARLY. You need to be to your bus stops as early as 3 a.m. Races start at 5:30 a.m. 8. Bathrooms – There are so many Port-o-pottys before, during and after the race that you don’t have to worry. And if you don’t like those you can always use the ones inside the parks, but just know you are not the only one that thought

2. Know the course, bib number, corrals and waivers – Phew, that sounds like a lot, but you will have all this information before you even leave for your race. Usually two to four weeks before the race the see the race maps come out. Asa visual learner, I need to “see” what I am about to physically do, because then I can visualize where I am when I am running. The course will have all the water stops, medical tents, on and off ramps, and mile markers labeled ahead of time. Trust me. By mile 8, the mind starts to play tricks on you and you’ll want to know your course. After RunDisney releases your bib number they will also release your corral placement, which is intended to keep the same paced runners together, helping the race flow. Waivers – You will need the signed participant waivers and a photo ID to pick up your bibs at the Expo. You and only you can pick up your bib, so make sure you plan your arrival time with enough time to get out to the Expo (at the ESPN Wide World of Sports). Pro-Tip: Print your waiver at home and bring it with you, it will save you from another line at the Expo. 3. Packing and Outfits for Race Day – Depending when your race is you might need to think about layers. Believe it or not it can be cold in Florida. Mylar blankets are a great thing

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Neighbors of Lake Manassas

April 2020

of that. Bathroom breaks can take some time and the clock does not stop, so make sure you go as much as you can before you get into your corral. 9. Racecourse Etiquette – Use common sense! No pushing, tripping or cutting others off. Be aware of your surroundings, lower the volume of your headphones if they go inside your ears, so you can hear what’s going on around you, and have patience – there are a lot of runners of all different abilities out there. If you are slower, move to the right. If you are using the run/walk intervals and will be coming to a stop or slowing down – raise your hand to alert others. Water stations are set up along the course, there are many, many tables that the volunteers are at handing out water/ Powerade/ To keep the flow moving skip the first three tables,

trust me there are more down the line. Take your cups and keep moving. Now you have finished with those cups - What do you do now? Throw them in the TRASH. Do not make the volunteers clean up after you! And speaking of the volunteers – say thank you. 10. The FINISH Line – WOOHOO you made it to the finish line, remember to RUN all the way through it and smile for the camera. Don’t forget to grab that medal, you earned it and take a selfie! If you need medical help from BioFreeze, to Tylenol, to ice, or something more serious (I pray no one ever does) – the medical team at the finish line will be there waiting. I always stop in to ice. All. The. Things. No seriously, including my feet, yes take those shoes off and place two ice bags on the ground and your feet right on top of them. Ice will stop the lactic acid from building up and help your aching feet as well. Make sure you keep yourself well hydrate before, during and even after the race you lost a lot of fluids through sweating, you now need to replace them. Now let’s talk about that awesome medal that you have. Wear it ALL DAY LONG. Yes, even in the parks! Be proud of what you just did – not everyone will have the courage to start, you did … and you FINISHED. Take all the photos with your medals, with iconic backdrops (with you and with just the medals), and with characters especially if the character is on the medal, and get the medal signed or even engraved with your name, date and finished time. One last tip: My husband and I always make it a point to have at least one special dinner on these vacations. Walt Disney World has some amazing restaurants so make sure you talk to your Simple Luxuries Travel agent about what restaurants you would like scheduled after your amazing race. I can’t wait to see you out on the racecourse – until then keep going and be magical!

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Neighbors of Lake Manassas

April 2020

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