Haymarket Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine April 2024

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FROM THE EDITOR

April is World Autism Awareness Month. On the second, people around the globe celebrate World Autism Awareness Day and, on the 18th, many of us, including me, celebrate Adult Autism Awareness Day. My 32 year-old son has autism and I think, if he were still in school, he’d love the cooking classes Cooking with Autism offers (page 26). He’s never been enamored with horses but, when I told him about Rainbow Therapeutic Riding (page 10) and the strides their equine therapy is making in the lives of autistic kids, he was thrilled. (Although he also added, “You’re not going to make me get on a horse, right?”) I hope you enjoy both these features and all those that appear in this issue. Thank you to all our advertisers for their continued support and to you, too, for reading and writing in with story suggestions. We appreciate you!

P.S. Our very own local artist, Joe Baker of Artfully Joe, is being featured in Autism Speaks newsletters this month! Please pay a visit to his site and support his work at artfully-joe.myshopify.com Thank you!

EDITOR

Susan McCorkindale

HAYMARKET / GAINESVILLE LIFESTYLE

Celebrating Western Prince William County

The Haymarket/Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and distributed to over 15,000 selected addresses. While reasonable care is taken with all material submitted to The Haymarket/ Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to any such material. Opinions expressed in articles are strictly those of the authors. While ensuring that all published information is accurate, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any mistakes or omissions. Reproduction in whole or part of any of the text, illustration, or photograph is strictly forbidden. ©2024 Rappahannock Media LLC.

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PAIS

SUE BALDANI

DAVID FAWCETT

BY BETH LUNA

BY GINA MICHAK

Awesome exhibits, hot performances, and more this month to do list

What if the world – and everyone in it –were more magical than we thought? That is the premise of WE ALL MIGHT BE WITCHES, a book of micropoems by award-winning local poet Katherine Mercurio Gotthardt. Inspired by Gotthardt’s adult son who has autism spectrum disorder and other disabilities, each poem is accompanied by a visual image enticing the reader to think more deeply about nature, the circle of life, and things we take for granted. To purchase, visit: katherinegotthardt.com/ we-all-might-be-witches/

A new temporary exhibit at the National Museum of the Marine Corps in Triangle is giving museumgoers a rare opportunity to see behind the scenes of a movie set. “FULL METAL MODINE” is a photographic exhibition of images captured by actor Matthew Modine during the filming of 1987’s “Full Metal Jacket.” The show will be on display through September 2025. Perfect for military history buffs, film aficionados, and aspiring Hollywood types! 1775 Semper Fidelis Wy, Triangle. For information: usmcmuseum.com/

Heiress and executive Marjorie Merriweather Post’s high fashion and jewelry are on display at Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens. The exhibit "MARJORIE MERRIWEATHER POST'S PARIS" includes a Cartier backgammon board, a Van Cleef & Arpels pin covered in rubies, an eye-shaped Hermès magnifying glass, an amethyst and diamond Cartier necklace and a handbag covered in pearls. The exhibit will be open until June 16 at 4155 Linnean Ave. NW. Entrance is donation-based. For information: hillwoodmuseum.org/ exhibitions/marjorie-merriweatherposts-paris

Four-time Wammie Award-winning Country and Americana artist and songwriter, MELISSA QUINN FOX, uses her honest, storydriven lyrics, expressive vocals, and captivating live performances to deliver a blend of country and Americana music that is as relatable as it is authentic. Catch this rising star at CraftWorx Taproom for a full band show on Friday, April 12 at 8 p.m.! 5615 Wellington Rd, Gainesville

And speaking of Wammie Awards, our very own family band from Bristow, SERREBREM, is up for Best Youth ArtistGroup in the 36th Annual Wammie Awards competition! Saturday, April 20, 7 p.m. at Capital One Hall, Tysons. They won’t be performing, but they’d sure love to have you cheering them on in the audience. For tickets and information, visit https://www.ticketmaster.com/ event/1500604E136359F9

Bring your four legged friends to LaGrange Winery for a special K9S IN THE VINES dog walk and tasting though the vineyard, Sunday, April 21, 11 a.m.! Stop at tasting stations and enjoy samples of estate wines. Each participant receives a complimentary k9's in the Vines stemless glass to take home. Stay after for dog related vendors and adoptable dogs! Tickets: $25 pp; wineryatlagrange.orderport.net/wines/Tickets • 4970 Antioch Road, Haymarket

Join Trouvaille Brewing Company for a most excellent MOVIE NIGHT featuring "Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure,” Wednesday, April 24, 7-9 p.m. Embark on a most triumphant journey with Bill & Ted, and experience the hilarity of their excellent adventure on the big screen. Free movie theatre popcorn, awesome craft beer, and delicious candy. Save the date and relive the fun with your friends! 14650 Washington St., Haymarket.

EXPERIENCE

CHEER

CHILL

26th Season

Archwood Green Barns Farmers' Market

"Fauquier County's Historic Sunday Market"

April to December

Sundays – 10 am to 2 pm

Shop for locally grown produce, pasture raised meats, and artisanal goods from Virginian producers at Fauquier’s Sunday market.

Extend your visit at Kinloch Farm Store, open Thursday to Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm.

4559 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, Virginia, 20198

Photography by Hugh

Kenny

archwoodgreenbarns.com

Rainbow Therapeutic Riding Center Brightens Lives

BY MICHELLE PAIS

Arainbow inspires inclusivity and the promise of possibility with a reach far and wide for many to see and enjoy. With this in mind, it feels fitting that the kind, caring and wonderfully welcoming therapeutic riding center on Silver Lake Road in Haymarket is named “Rainbow.”

Ahead of its time when founded by highly motivated early adopters locally in 1985, the Rainbow Therapeutic Riding Center then and now brightens the lives of others just as its name suggests.

“Rainbow is so powerful,” says Inga Janke, Executive Director. “It truly brings such dramatic change.”

About Rainbow

Rainbow offers equine-assisted activities that promote well being and growth for students aged 4+ with a variety of physical, cognitive and emotional challenges. These activities improve balance, strength, coordination, motor skills, sequencing and spatial awareness while building empathy, confidence and patience.

New students enroll in a minimum 10-week semester with weekly riding lessons where they set fun, exciting and realistic goals. Rainbow’s team of instructors consists of experienced equine professionals passionate about making a difference.

Under blue skies and plentiful sunshine on a gorgeous 70-degree day in early March, Rainbow radiated with excitement, enthusiasm, and lots of laughter as Julie McGuire, PR/Media Relations and PATH Intl. Certified Instructor offered a guided tour around the immaculately cared for facility.

Families spectated from comfortable seats in an expan sive viewing area overlooking the indoor arena, pride so evident from the smiles on their faces as they watched the students learn, grow and accomplish.

Certified instructors and experienced volunteers showed support and showered riders with expertise, guidance and praise, showcasing their knowledge,

Top: Students at Rainbow Therapeutic Riding Center love reading to Bentley. Bottom: Hannah (on horse) working with her instructor, Maddie.

experience and sincere gratitude for the moment. Many of the instructors and volunteers joined Rainbow several years ago, and the tenure speaks volumes to the impact Rainbow has on everyone.

New Resources at Rainbow

Rainbow also always aims to add new and additional resources and backgrounds to their team. One of the newest additions, for example, is a certified speech pathologist and therapist with a speciality focus on autism.

“This newest instructor is a very exciting addition,” Janke says, highlighting the use of visualization boards, sensory objects and more.

And then there are the horses, the gentle giants who could so easily step into the limelight as the stars of the show, but instead gracefully choose to shine the spotlight on their riders. With awe-inspiring precision and success, Rainbow’s ability to match students with animals really resonates when speaking with the students themselves.

“Bear is my favorite,” one student says, while confidently hugging him around the neck before resuming her lesson and demonstrating a trot around the ring. “Whether I am in the saddle or grooming on the ground, if I’m around horses I’m happy.”

Another student, just starting her lesson, talked about how it was a great day, not only did it include riding at Rainbow but earlier in the day she taught her friends a cheer routine all about acceptance, a message that rings loud and clear at Rainbow.

The center sees about 300 participants each year and

their positive influence is magnified far beyond that number alone because everyone who knows that person benefits, Janke says, including schools, families, friends, pets and more.

The Power of Horses

Through the power of horses, Rainbow encourages, empathizes and empowers. Learning to spend time around and in the saddle of a 1200-pound animal helps children, teens and adults to feel elevated, in control and strong.

“That’s where the miracle happens,” Janke says. “This is accessible for everyone.”

Janke finds that when most people think of therapeutic riding they think of adaptive riding for those with physical disabilities. That was and is a big part of what Rainbow offers and they are outfitted with state of the art equipment, processes, training and teams to meet this need. Additionally, the programs and services have grown tremendously over the years to also include a true demand around mental health.

Through a strong relationship with Virginia social and family services programs, Rainbow partners to help families in crisis to pursue therapies that may be less mainstream, such as therapeutic riding, and the results are phenomenal. Specifically, Rainbow welcomes approximately 40% of their students through these channels, including the Family Assessment and Planning Team (FAPT) in all surrounding counties.

“This benefits the entire family. We are able to help bring peace back to the home, reintegrate students back

to schools,” Janke says. “Everyone flourishes.”

It’s not only the program and the team that has expanded at Rainbow, the facilities have grown, too.

Expanding the Facilities

In the early years of Rainbow, the center boarded at a variety of locations and at one time considered building out their facility at a property they then owned in Nokesville. In 2006, Prince William County entered into a 30year lease with Rainbow on the 40 acres at the entrance to Silver Lake Regional Park. With the sale of their Nokesville property alongside a major capital campaign, in 2012 Rainbow finished the development of an ADA parking area, indoor and outdoor arenas, offices and more.

Back then, the operation was very weather dependent but through fundraising efforts in 2018 Rainbow built a barn to provide programs all year.

“We built this beautiful barn,” Janke says. “As an education center to provide services year-round and ensure top care of our furry instructors. That changed everything.”

The picturesque, well organized and maintained barn is a happy home for the horses and creates a safe haven for students to learn, care, communicate, bond and just be themselves. The sun naturally filters through the doors, a breeze softly drifts down the aisle, a horse gently neighs nearby and from the outside grounds and paddocks horses pop their heads outside for some fresh air.

In a model that has evolved over time from donations to care leasing, Rainbow is a happy and healthy home to horses from farms and families who are looking for that

positive next step in their horse’s lives and careers prior to retirement. These horses might include former show hunters and jumpers, for example. And oftentimes the family will stop by routinely to see their horse enjoying its amazing next chapter to help others. Rainbow’s horses are well loved and cared for and are fulfilling a worthwhile mission for them and for everyone.

While horses are a primary focus at Rainbow, including trail rides, ground lessons, grooming, horse care and even a reading program called Bentley’s Books, the overarching theme is nurturing in nature and expands to also feature service dogs, barn cats and summer camps.

Year-Round Programs and Camps

In addition to Rainbow’s many year-round programs, the Rainbow Outdoor Camp for Kids (ROCK!) promotes fishing, hiking, archery and wildlife. Camp dates are April 6 and 27, May 11 and 25, June 15 and 29 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and the cost is $15 per session per child ages 10-14.

Rainbow is a magical and special place and on days like this one, of which there are undoubtedly many, it is abundantly clear why if you ask anyone they will say: “Rainbow is my happy place.” L

If you are looking to register a student, inquire about possibilities for your horse, learn more, or volunteer you can contact 703-794-5308 or rainbow@rainbowriding.org. Rainbow Therapeutic Riding Center is located at the entrance of Silver Lake Regional Park at 16198 Silver Lake Park in Haymarket and their website is www.rainbowriding.org.

Ignite Your Creativity at Dabble Creative Reuse Center

Their affordable arts and crafts supplies open up a world of possibilities

BY SUE BALDANI

Whether crafting for a casual hobby, passion or profession, supplies can be very expensive and often limit what a creative mind can do. Kelly Auldridge, an artist, wife and mom from Manassas, wants to make sure every artist, young and old, has the ability to turn their ideas into reality.

“My husband Greg [Auldridge] and I really want to be able to provide opportunity and inspiration by making the supplies accessible,” she said. “We’re trying to open up the creative world for as many people as we can.”

With Dabble Creative Reuse Center, located in Old Town, they are doing just that. The store is filled with all kinds of crafting supplies from buttons and bows to fabrics and yarn. Everything is donated, which allows merchandise to be sold at very affordable prices.

The idea of recycling craft supplies came to Kelly when she was teaching a class at Fillagreen, a zero-waste and refill shop also in Manassas. “Over the summer they had sustainable artists come in, and another artist who was there was affiliated with a creative reuse center out in Arlington. This was the first time I’d ever heard of this concept and I absolutely loved the idea.”

Crafters, she said, always have extra supplies laying around, and the thought of having a place dedicated to getting those usable items to the right people was incredible. “I learned more about it and visited a few of the

Kelly Auldridge, owner.

places,” said Kelly. “There are actually eight creative reuse centers in the state now. And, while everybody does it a little differently, they all have the same mission - to make arts and crafting more accessible by providing things at a low cost, and making it more sustainable by keeping things out of landfills.”

Neither Kelly, who has a 20 year career in government compliance, nor Greg, knew anything about starting this type of business, so it was a little daunting. “The folks at Fillagreen were just about to celebrate their one-year anniversary, and since they had gone through a lot of the process, they helped us.”

After that, things moved fast. They had only started talking about starting this venture in August of last year, and by November, the doors of Dabble opened.

“It's been really exciting to see the need,” she said. “People are so ready for this. We have everybody from preschoolers to very well established artists shopping with us. We knew people would be excited to shop for low cost art and craft supplies, but what we didn’t expect is how supportive people would be with donating. We've gotten such a great response and people have told us what a blessing it is to have us here and be able to donate their things to us.”

One of the most surprising donations she received was a beautiful loom, which she said usually costs $600 or more. One day a lady came in looking for one, and when

“She was in here with a group of friends and they were all pulling out their wallets to offer to help her pay for it. It was wonderful.”

A lot of Dabble’s pricing is bag based. “You can fill a bag for a set price and so it's fun to come in with the kids because they can just grab an assortment of things to play with.”

Kelly also loves when people visit and share ideas with her or each other. They often then send photos of finished products, which she posts on Facebook and other social media sites.

In order to facilitate the sharing of ideas even more, Kelly holds classes and events in the shop. “We have different events focused on upcycle projects based on things that we might have in the store to let people try different things. The cool thing at Dabble is we can start with an idea and since we have access to everything in the store, it's very cool for people to be able to personalize it.”

She welcomes volunteers to teach classes as well, and wants to explore having high school art students come in and teach classes to give them some experience in teaching and sharing their art. Kelly and Greg also believe in supporting teachers, who often have to buy their own supplies. “We want to be a resource for them and have made donations,” she said.

Dabble Creative Reuse Center also held a spring break camp for kids at the end of March. And, on April 16th, the store is having its official ribbon cutting. “It’s going to be from 1:00 to 2:00 and we're just going to celebrate being part of the community. We'll have some prizes and other

fun stuff going on that day and probably that week.”

In addition to supplies, financial donations are also appreciated at Dabble. “We’re not a 501(c)(3), so donations are not tax deductible, but we try to put all the money we receive from sales and other things back into the shop and back into the community to make things as accessible as we can.”

Another resource for crafters she likes to promote is the Prince William Public Library system. “They have a couple of makerspaces and they're amazing. They have Cricut machines, quilting machines, and 3D printers. They have tons of tools available for the public to use for free. So, people can come to Dabble and get their supplies for a really low cost and then go use the library equipment for free. That really opens up a lot of doors for people to make and try new things.”

Added Kelly, “This has been a really joyful experience for me. Being a part of the community and feeling like we're meeting a need is really such a beautiful feeling. It's been amazing so far and we're just so excited to see where it goes.” L

Dabble Creative Reuse Center

Official Ribbon Cutting Celebration: Tuesday, April 16, 1-2p.m. 9100 Church Street #101, Manassas

DabbleCRC.com

Hours of Operation: Thursday 4-7 pm; Saturday 11 am-5 pm; Sunday 11 am-5 pm

The People’s Choice

Student interest brings niche high school sports into the mainstream

In winter, of course, indoor sports reign in Virginia, and they play a vital role in any school’s life. At Wakefield School in The Plains, this past winter season provided a bounty of excitement in two traditional winter favorites, swimming and basketball: the varsity swim team won the GPAC championship for the second straight year, with swimmers qualifying for the Virginia Independent School Athletic Association (VISAA) state tournament and dropping seconds off of their times; and both boys and girls varsity basketball teams captured their respective GPAC conference and tournament championships, with both teams entering the VISAA state playoffs’ round of eight and the girls moving on to finish in the final four.

The VISAA, however, is not the only game in town when it comes to high school sports, and Wakefield is fortunate to also offer two less familiar but equally exciting winter sports that are not part of VISAA’s traditional menu: the squash and equestrian teams.

Both squash and equestrian sport entered Wakefield’s athletics program in the most desirable and organic way possible: by popular demand! In keeping with the value Wakefield places on student voice and initiative, it was student and prospective-student interest that provided the initial push towards both sports. Both were then advocated for by Wakefield parents whose kids wanted to pursue those sports, and ultimately both were championed by Wakefield decision-makers as excellent ways to expand student opportunity.

And in addition to the happy students who were already squash players and riders and who could now pursue their favorite sports as part of their school’s varsity athletics experience, Wakefield’s adoption of squash and

equestrian sport has had the single most desirable effect that any youth sports program can hope for: it has brought eager new beginners into both sports, and has made them into what can only be described as superfans.

As far as varsity competition goes, both teams have much to be proud of.

Prior to pandemic disruptions, Wakefield squash remained competitive in Chase Interclub Varsity League (CIVL) Division I each year since the program’s inception, winning the championship title each year from 2011-2014 and from 2017-2020. The team also competes in the Mid-Atlantic Squash Organization (MASO) League, under the auspices of U.S. Squash, comprised of Wakefield and seven other varsity teams, including powerhouses like Woodberry Forest, Episcopal, and Gonzaga. Wakefield finished in its highest-ever position of 4th in the team's last competitive season in the MASO League in 2019-20.

According to Coach Mark Broekman, Wakefield’s varsity team, fully rebounded since the pandemic lull and led by an experienced and nationally-ranked player, is poised for the school’s best season ever next year, with no one graduating off of this year’s squad and more newcomers moving up from the Developmental Squash programs in both the Middle and Upper Schools.

With equal attention to bringing aboard eager beginners, the Wakefield Equestrian Sports Program (WESP) provides school horses, coaching, and a riding facility for students in grades 6 through 12 throughout the school year. The team competes at shows organized by the International Equestrian Association (IEA), which also provides horses for competition. As a result, students

“In keeping with the value Wakefield places on student voice and initiative, it was student and prospectivestudent interest that provided the initial push towards both sports.”

are not required to have their own horses to participate in practices or shows.

This past year saw banner accomplishments for WESP. According to Coach Holly Osman, both varsity and Middle School equestrian teams qualified for the IEA Zone 3, Region 10 Finals; it was the varsity team’s first time in eight years, and over half of the team earned individual qualifications to regionals as well. One rider advanced to the Zone Finals, held in Lexington, Kentucky, in March.

According to both Coach Broekman and Coach Osman, though, there is more on the table in both squash and equestrian sport than simply honing skills and winning titles.

Says Coach Broekman, “Squash can be of great benefit both to health and to a child's future. Squash has been rated the #1 healthiest sport in the world by Forbes Magazine! Many top colleges in the U.S. have amazing squash programs, and top-level high school squash players can get recruited to those top schools through their squash-playing achievements as well as their academics.”

When asked about the special lessons that working with horses can offer to students, Coach Osman says, “Horses help these riders learn to make mistakes and identify why and figure out how to make it better. To let it go and apologize to the horse. And to try again. So compassion, accountability, and perseverance.”

And, she continues, “I also love that horses bridge the gaps. When any humans, old, young, any nationality, get together and they all love horses...they will talk for hours. We realize how weird and dorky we are in our horse craze, and we accept it!”

Just as student voice and agency brought these two off-the-beaten-path varsity sports to Wakefield, student passion now keeps them thriving, to the benefit not only of experienced athletes pleased to find them available, but also of the many who have discovered them as beginners and never left.

PGA TOUR OR BUST

BRYCE CORBETT SWINGS FOR THE STARS

BY DAVID FAWCETT PHOTOS COURTESY RADFORD UNIVERSITY

The first time Mike Grant saw Bryce Corbett of Gainesville play golf, he placed three stars next to Corbett’s name.

The ranking, which goes as high as five, meant two things. First, Corbett remained in the mix for a spot on Radford’s men’s golf team after finishing runner-up at the state junior golf tournament in summer 2019.

But the designation also meant he was not a must-have recruit for Grant, the Highlanders’ head coach. Not yet anyway, because Grant was considering at least 10 other players to fill out his five-person freshman class.

Then that fall, Russ Fricke, Corbett’s coach at Battlefield High School, emailed Grant to suggest he take a closer look at Corbett, who was beginning his senior year.

Grant received emails like this from other coaches highlighting their players. Fricke’s email, though, was different. It resonated with sincerity. Everyone agreed Corbett was a work in progress. But the potential for bigger things lingered below the surface.

Plus, Grant valued Fricke’s opinion. The two knew each other from their college days playing golf -- Fricke at the University of Richmond and Grant at Virginia Commonwealth University.

“ AFTER HIS

“

So with no time to waste, Grant called Corbett immediately after reading Fricke’s email and asked him to visit the southwest Virginia college. A scholarship offer soon followed, and Corbett signed that November.

As Grant looks back now on how Corbett arrived at Radford, a number of thoughts run through his head. Luck played a part, as did instinct in explaining why Grant reached out to Corbett.

But the bottom line is that Fricke’s email was pivotal in bringing Radford a sensational player. Fricke’s belief in Corbett was well-founded. The 22-year-old has blossomed into a two-time first-team all-conference selection and the preseason choice to win his second straight conference player of the year award.

“After his freshman year, everyone knew he was going to be good,” Grant said. “We’re not surprised by what he does now.”

STARTING OUT

Corbett has been around golf all his life. His father, Scott, worked at the Chantilly National Golf and Country Club for 18 years, including as the head pro. He now gives golf lessons at Golf Spot 29 in Warrenton. In addition, Corbett’s younger brother, Tate, plays on Lynchburg University’s golf team.

A Gainesville resident, Corbett grew up playing soccer and basketball as well. He first gave up basketball and then, after sixth grade, soccer, after being diagnosed with Osgood-Schlatter disease. A condition usually found in growing teenagers, Osgood-Schlatter causes the area

“Everyone has a story to tell, a lesson to teach, and wisdom to share.”

MELANIE KOULOURIS

around the knee to swell up through overuse.

Without the stress of constant running, golf was a safe athletic outlet for Corbett. He thrived in high school, winning the 2018 Class 6 state title as a junior and finishing second in 2019.

But for all his success, he drew little interest from college recruiters.

Virginia was particularly loaded that year with talented high school senior golfers, including Wake Forest’s Michael Brennan (Tuscarora High School in Leesburg), who played in the 2023 U.S. Open, and the University of Virginia’s George Duangmanee (Fairfax High School), who was ranked the No. 11 golfer in the nation for 2020 by Golfweek.

Division III Christopher Newport and Bridgewater offered Corbett spots. Corbett also visited James Madison University and Elon without receiving an offer from either Division I school.

When Radford approached him about joining its team, Corbett jumped at the chance. He was familiar with the school. His mother and her two sisters went there. One aunt, Jayne Katz Ayers, class of 1983, received Radford’s outstanding alumnus award in 2000.

Corbett understood he wasn’t an ACC-level golfer then. What he wanted most was to compete at the Division I level. This was his opportunity.

Grant didn’t think too much about Corbett’s potential, knowing it might take time to develop. But when Corbett arrived on campus as a freshman, he noticed a difference.

“I didn’t have any expectations for him,” Grant said. “But he had grown quite a bit. He was bigger and stronger.”

Grant said Corbett is a well-rounded player. “He does everything well. There’s not one part of his game that is above the other.”

The pandemic disrupted Corbett’s freshman season. No competitions took place in the fall of 2020.

Corbett plans to try to qualify for the PGA Tour after he graduates from Radford next month.

Corbett hoped to receive an extra year of eligibility, but the NCAA declined it because the Big South Conference held its spring championship, where Radford finished tied for first.

The Big South Conference also decided to make an exception that season in recognizing the freshman golfer of the year.

Since there was no spring 2020 season, golfers who were freshmen in 2019-20 were eligible for the 2021 freshman-of-the-year award. Under normal circumstances, Corbett would have won the honor, but it instead went to Charleston Southern’s Ben Carroll

“He didn’t get a fair shake,” Grant said. “He’s only played 3½ years of college golf.”

Corbett persevered. He kept improving to the point that a year ago he became the first Radford golfer ever to compete in the NCAA regionals. He finished tied for 20th in a field that included two players who qualified for the prestigious professional Masters Tournament, North Carolina’s Austin Greaser and Texas A&M’s Sam Bennett.

The experience boosted Corbett’s confidence.

“I’m thinking, ‘I can hang with them,’” Corbett said.

Corbett said he wasn’t thinking about playing golf as a professional when he arrived at Radford. But based on last season’s success, he plans to try to qualify for the PGA Tour after he graduates in May from Radford with a degree in sports management.

This summer, Corbett will live with his aunt in Palm Coast, Fla., and attend qualifying school for the Korn Ferry Tour. The Korn Ferry Tour is a step below the PGA Tour. To qualify for the Korn Ferry Tour, Corbett will have to go through four stages.

Two former Radford golfers, Myles Creighton and Peter Gasperini, are or have competed on the Korn Ferry Tour. Another, Callum Tarren, is currently on the PGA Tour.

“I just think I’ve had rounds that have proven I’m worthy enough to play at the next level,” Corbett said. “Others who have played here have proved it’s possible.”

THE PAST IS PRESENT

Radford’s first tournament of the spring is typically in Hilton Head, S.C.

For the past two years, Fricke, who is now retired and lives nearby, has played a round of golf with Grant, Corbett and the rest of Radford’s team at Fricke’s home course, the Chechessee Creek Club.

During each get-together, the topic of how Corbett arrived at Radford always comes up between Grant and Fricke. It’s fun to recollect how close Corbett came to going to school elsewhere.

“Maybe I’m missing something,” Grant recalls thinking when he first received Fricke’s email.

He didn’t and for that he’s forever thankful.  L

About the Author: David Fawcett is sports editor of InsideNoVa, which publishes Haymarket-Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine. Reach him at dfawcett@insidenova.com.

2024 Summer Camps

Give Your Student A Unique Summer Experience! ENROLL NOW! AllegroCSA.org/SummerCamps-2024

Themed Camps

Storybook Camp, June 24-28, 9am - noon. Ages 4 & 5

Princesses & Pirates, July 8-12 9am - noon. Ages 5 - 7

Heros & Villians, Aug 5 - 9, 9am - noon. Ages 4-6

Shrek Jr, Theatre Intensive

July 15 - 26, 9am - 4pm

This summer we will be returning to our roots with a Summer Theatre Intensive camp. Join us for Shrek Jr.

Finding Nemo, Theatre Intensive with Fauquier High School

June 17 - 27 (M-TH)

This summer Allegro is excited to partner with Fauquier High School to present a Summer Intensive Camp. Join us for Finding Nemo.

MAD Skills Theatre

July 8 - 12, 1-4pm

This fast paced afternoon camp focuses on the 3 aspects of Musical Theatre - Music, Acting, Dancing. Each day students will explore a different show, giving them a wide range of styles.

Private Lessons

June 3 - Aug 2

Both in person and virtual lessons are available.

community

Cooking Autism with Cooking Skills and So Much More

April 13

Fundraiser Race Helps Fuel Grants

BY BETH LUNA

It is widely known that food brings people together. We traditionally share life’s moments, both simple and momentous, around the table with family and friends over plates, home cooked or brought in. The ritual of sharing a meal is almost taken for granted, but when used as a teaching tool, the planning, preparation, and enjoyment of food is a powerful life skill for those with autism and other cognitive disabilities.

Stafford county residents Morgan and April Burch saw the tremendous benefits their son received from the work the autism educators were doing at Conway Elementary. The teachers had incorporated a life skills cooking program into the autism class, and they soon saw their son making friends, softening his food aversions, and following directions better. They approached the staff about taking the program to other schools, and Cooking Autism was founded.

“April won a car from Pohanka Nissan in 2017, and instead of taking the car, she asked for the money,” said King George resident Sarah Beth Rodrigues, vice chair and event coordinator for the 501c. “Their first grant was to the Conway program in 2018. In the current school year, Cooking Autism is serving 798 students in five states, with a total of 39 grants.”

Applications for the grants open in April, close in June and are dispersed close to the beginning of the school year. “Grants are between $250 and $2000, depending on the number of students in the classroom and the equipment needed,” she said. “If a classroom is just launching

Cooking Autism’s 4th Annual Race for Autism Awareness

Race Start Times

10k: 7:30am

5k: 7:45am

1-Miler: 9am

1/4 Mile Dash: 9:15am

Family Festival: 8am-12:00pm

Registration

Fees

1/4 Mile Dash: $15

1-Miler: $20

(Cotton T-Shirts)

5k: $30, until March 31 ($35)

10k: $45, until March 31 ($50)

the program, they may need a griddle, blender, measuring cups and other items.”

Sarah Beth, a speech language pathologist at King George Elementary and Cooking Autism grant recipient, provides speech support and social skills to her students. “So many lessons are learned in our Friday cooking classes,” she said. “For instance, if we are making a grilled cheese, we are taking turns, measuring, washing dishes, passing out plates. The students are interacting with each other, working on fine motor skills, following instructions, and possibly trying new food, which can be so beneficial for kids with a limited palate.”

Sarah Beth has between six and eight students per class, cooking every other Friday with seven classes. “Each of my students has their own cooking bin that includes measuring cups and spoons, an apron, a whisk, utensils, and a spatula,” she said. “We came up with the concept during covid – they retrieve their bin and a laminated recipe card, plus they get a paper copy for later.” The participants discuss the ingredients, the steps in the recipe, and the griddle and how hot it gets. “We work hand and over hand – adding butter to their bread, putting it on the griddle together, putting the cheese on,” she said. The more social students discuss the recipe, whether they have liked or disliked it in the past, and what category of food it is. “It’s a good conversation piece, and those who are non-verbal can still make choices.” Some of the children struggle to expand their palate, which is typical of autism. “The kids can look at the food, touch it, even

T-shirts guaranteed to runners registered before April

3. After April 3; first-come firstserved basis.

Race Day

Registration

There will be race day registration. Participants will need to arrive approximately one hour before the race to register for the event. T-shirts cannot be guaranteed for race day registers. Price will increase on race morning by $5 for each distance

Max Baril, a first grader at King George Elementary, spreads peanut butter on a ritz cracker, during a Cooking Autism class.

lick it, and this has helped many to expand their palates,” she added. Sarah Beth tailors the menu and lessons for her 38 students, who have a wide range of abilities. “We make things like smoothies, scrambled eggs and toast, animal face toast so they can choose their animal, and fruit kababs.” She shares seasonal themes as well, like acorn donuts for fall. “When we make spaghetti, the students pick their noodles, boil the water, and mix together.” After the recipe is completed, they have time to help clean dishes and put everything back in their bins. “We finish with some type of comprehension, such as ‘today I made grilled cheese. It’s a type of dairy,” she added.

Since its inception, the program has gone from Stafford to many surrounding counties, as well as Maryland, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Mississippi and more. “We accepted grant applications from only public and private schools at first, but now have expanded to include any appropriate setting,” Sarah said. “We have helped programs at two churches and some centers, using a formula that looks at the numbers served. We determine a certain amount of money per student per week, and whether they cook every week or every other week.”

In addition to the grants, Cooking Autism awards the Joe Callahan Life Skills Grant yearly. “The scholarship is in memory of Joe, who was a huge advocate for his grandson, and his family raised funds in his name to support those impacted by autism,” Sarah said. “Last year we awarded two $2,500 scholarships to future special

education educators to foster their growth.” Applications open this month, kicking off World Autism Awareness Month, and people may donate through the Cooking Autism website.

Cooking Autism’s 4th Annual Race for Autism Awareness is 8 a.m. to noon April 13 at Pratt Park in Fredericksburg. The race directly funds classroom grants alongside donations made through the website. “There are four races, including a quarter mile dash for little ones,” Sarah said. “We throw a free family festival as well, that includes information, sponsors, and disability resources for assistance to families and the community. We are thankful for this year’s sponsors, including Stafford Early Autism Services, Spectrum Autism Services, Finest Butcher, Taco Bell, Spectrum Sea Turtles (YMCA), Matthews Center in Manassas, Crown Trophy for awards and tee shirts, DJ service Big Day Productions, Chloe Cummings Photography, race event co-host Bishops Events, WFLS radio, Live 99.3 and 96.9 The Rock. Ainsley’s Angels of America provides athletic opportunities for those who can’t walk or run; they have paid for our race arch and are joining in the race as well.” L

To help bring this diverse population to the table and teach fulfilling skills, Cooking Autism depends on donations. “If you are not able to join us for the races, we appreciate donations on our website cookingautism.org.”

Let’s Make a Mason Jar Salad!

BY GINA MICHAK

This month, I’ve got a fun way to make and bring your salad to school. You can even make a few at a time, so you’ll have lunch (or an after school snack) ready all week. If you’re thinking, “Ugh, salad,” let me just say that leafy greens and veggies are great for growing bodies. Even better, you can make your salad your way. Get creative with it! (Though I might not add M&Ms. Save those for after you eat your salad!)

For Your Salad

The following is a list that will help you make this month’s recipe.

Mason jars (pint or quart sized, depending on how big you want your salad to be)

4-6 ounce plastic cups with lids (or small mason jars) for the dressing

Your favorite assorted salad vegetables (here are some ideas):

Leafy greens

Cherry tomatoes

Chopped broccoli

Chopped cauliflower

Shredded carrots

Diced red peppers

Diced green peppers

Sliced cucumbers

Sliced olives

Shredded cheese

Croutons or seeds to add extra crunch

You can even add cooked chicken or beef, or a chunk of drained tuna

Start with the leafy greens and layer your salad veggies in the mason jar, building all the way to the top. There’s no “wrong way “ to build your salad, because it’s yours!

For the Easy Vinaigrette

1 tsp. Garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 tsp. Black pepper

1 tsp. Dijon mustard

1 tsp. Honey

1/3 cup red or white wine vinegar

1/3 cup olive oil

Add all ingredients to the small jar or plastic cup with a lid and shake. When you’re ready to enjoy your salad, just toss the dressing on top, mix, and enjoy.

Storage tip: If you’re storing your salad overnight, leave it on the counter for 10-15 minutes so it can come to room temperature after you’re done making it, then put it in the fridge. Don’t forget to take it to school the next day! L

BY LIZ MARIE PORTRAITS

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Gina Michak is a custom baker and owner of “From Gina’s Kitchen,” as well as the kids culinary instructor at the Manassas Park Community Center. When she’s not baking, she’s whipping up travel itineraries as a Disney Travel Specialist. Connect with her @fromginaskitchen and @almosttheretravelbygina.

H&G’s

TOP 10

The five highest-priced homes that sold in 20155 and 20169 in February.

Photos

20169

5518 HILLSMAN FARM LN $989,000

Sold: Feb., 2 4 bedrooms

4.5 bathrooms 4,647 square feet

5703 CARIBBEAN CT $901,000

Sold: Feb. 29

5 bedrooms

4.5 bathrooms

5,039 square feet

16099 CALLA LILY LN $695,765

Sold: Feb. 15

3 bedrooms

3 bathrooms

2,061 square feet

6622 BARTRAMS FOREST LN $690,000

Sold: Feb. 22

3 bedrooms

3.5 bathrooms

2,642 square feet

6329 VIRGINIA BLUEBELL LN $666,489

Sold: Feb. 16

3 bedrooms

3 bathrooms

2,219 square feet

The Big Picture

Housing prices in Gainesville (20155) increased in February, year over year. The price of a 1 bedroom home increased by 12.3%; 2 bedroom homes were up by 8.2%; 3 bedroom up by 6%; 4 bedroom homes up by 8%; and 5+ bedroom homes up by 1.8%. In Haymarket (20169), housing prices were more mixed. The price of a 1 bedroom home did not change; 2 bedroom homes decreased by 26.4%; 3 bedroom homes decreased by 5.7%; 4 bedroom homes increased by 15.3%; and 5+ bedroom homes increased by 7.6%. Source: Rocket Homes

The February Details

Median sold price, Haymarket: $715,717

• Up 9.9% over Feb. 2023

Number of homes sold, Haymarket: 24

• Sold over asking price: 58.3%

• Sold in under 30 days: 88%

201 55

13905 FOX HUNT WAY $930,000

Sold: Feb. 27

4 bedrooms

4.5 bathrooms

4,190 square feet

6805 MANDALAY CT $900,000

Sold: Feb. 29

5 bedrooms

3.5 bathrooms

4,953 square feet

15379 NEPTUNE CT $833,000

Sold: Feb. 27

6 bedrooms

2.5 bathrooms

3,950 square feet

14500 JANSBURY ST $801,000

Sold: Feb. 27

4 bedrooms

3.5bathrooms

3,807 square feet

Median sold price, Gainesville: $578,875

• Up 5.3% over Feb. 2023

Number of homes sold, Gainesville: 53

• Sold over asking price: 64%

• Sold in under 30 days: 87%

6803 AUTUMN HARVEST TRL $643,580

Sold: Feb. 14 3 bedrooms

wine&dine

Delicious Breakfast Casseroles & Meatless Meat

BY KARLA JONES SEIDITA, HOME ECONOMIST

I love weekends. I can stay in my PJs, sip a glass of wine (or two) and read cookbooks by the bushel, devouring them like trashy novels. I keep the TV on for background noise and think about food all day long. Today I’m thinking about overnight breakfast casseroles and meat free recipes so good they’ll never miss the meat. Let’s get into the kitchen!

English Muffin Overnight Breakfast Casserole

Cozy up to the morning with warm and inviting breakfast casserole. Prep the day before. Refrigerate overnight. Bake the next morning while you relax over a second cup of coffee.

SERVES 6

USES A 9 X 13

]NONMETAL PAN

INGREDIENTS

4 Tablespoons butter

½ teaspoon pepper (divided)

6 cloves garlic

2 onions (diced – about 2 cups)

10 - 12 oz. frozen chopped spinach (drained)

8 oz. cream cheese (softened)

1 cup shredded parmesan cheese (divided)

Pinch nutmeg

10 eggs

1 teaspoon salt

1 2/3 cups Half & Half

6 English Muffins

1 pound deli ham

DIRECTIONS

1. Melt butter in a large skillet. Add ¼ teaspoon pepper, garlic and onions. Cook on low, stirring, until onions are soft.

2. Stir in spinach. Continue cooking to evaporate any moisture – about 2 minutes. Stir in cream cheese, ½ cup parmesan and nutmeg till cream cheese is melted. Remove ¼ cup and set aside.

3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, salt and Half & Half. Stir in reserved ¼ cup reserved spinach mix.

4. Grease pan or mist with cooking spray. Arrange English muffin bottoms in the pan cut side up. Divide ham evenly on each. Dollop with cheese mixture. Cover with muffin tops forming 6 sandwiches. Pour egg mixture over muffins. Cover. Refrigerate overnight.

5. Next day, preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake (uncovered) 45 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining ½ cup parmesan. Continue baking till eggs are set to a light touch – about 15 minutes more.

Overnight Cheddar Biscuits with Mushroom - Sausage Gravy

A classic made fancy.

SERVES 6 TO 8

USES A 9 X 13 NONMETAL

BAKING PAN

BISCUIT MIX INGREDIENTS

2 cups all-purpose flour

3 Tablespoons corn starch

4 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

¾ teaspoon salt

1 ½ cups shredded orange cheddar

1 stick cold butter (grated)

BISCUIT MIX DIRECTIONS

Toss ingredients together. Refrigerate (covered) overnight.

GRAVY INGREDIENTS

4 Tablespoons butter

1 pound breakfast sausage

8 oz. sliced fresh mushrooms

1 onion (chopped)

½ cup all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon pepper

1 Tablespoon garlic powder

4 ½ cups milk

(Plus 3 Tablespoons additional milk for drizzling)

FOR BISCUIT DOUGH

¾ cup milk

1 Tablespoon vinegar

DIRECTIONS

1. Grease baking pan or mist with cooking spray. Set aside.

2. Melt butter in a large skillet. Add sausage, mushrooms and onion. Cook on low (stirring) until sausage is done and veggies are soft – about 10 minutes. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook 1 minute. Whisk in 4 ½ cups milk. Cook (whisking) until bubbly and thickened – about 3 minutes. Pour into prepared pan. Drizzle with 3 Tablespoons milk, swirling pan to coat top. (Prevents skin from forming.) Cool. Cover with foil. Refrigerate overnight.

3. Next day put pan of gravy (covered) into cold oven. Set oven to 375 degrees. Bake 35 minutes. Remove from oven. Stir gravy then dollop with biscuit dough.

BISCUIT DOUGH

Stir milk and vinegar into biscuit mix. Dollop 12 (1/4 cup size) biscuits onto hot gravy. Return to oven. Bake (uncovered) till biscuits brown and gravy bubbles – about 35 minutes.

Rev. Sean K. Rousseau & Family

Cheesy Stuffed Peppers

Surprise your meat and potato lovers, they’ll never miss the meat! Scrumptious! Substitute any color pepper or use a combo of colors.

SERVES 4 TO 6

USES A DEEP POT WITH LID OR DUTCH OVEN

SAUCE INGREDIENTS

4 Tablespoons butter

½ teaspoon pepper

6 Tablespoons brown sugar

1 (28 oz.) can diced tomatoes with juice

1 (28 oz.) can crushed tomatoes

3 cups vegetable stock

SAUCE DIRECTIONS

Stir ingredients together in pot. Simmer (partially covered) on medium while stuffing peppers.

STUFFED PEPPERS INGREDIENTS

4 to 6 green peppers

2 cups cooked rice

3 carrots (peeled and shredded –about 2 cups)

2 eggs

¼ cup bread crumbs

16 oz. Velveeta

DIRECTIONS FOR STUFFING THE PEPPERS

1. Cut tops off peppers. Discard seeds.

2. In a large bowl, mix rice, carrot, eggs and bread crumbs. Lightly pack into peppers, dividing evenly. Stand stuffed peppers upright in sauce. Simmer, partially covered, until peppers are soft and sauce is reduced to a thickness you like – about 45 minutes. (Stir often to prevent burning.)

3. Add Velveeta in chunks. Simmer until melted –about 10 minutes more.

No Meat Taco Meat

Make taco night meat-free with this surprisingly good meat- free meat. Nachos and burritos, too!

MAKES 2 CUPS

INGREDIENTS

2 teaspoons olive oil

2 cups pecans (other nuts or seeds not recommended)

1 cup diced onions

2 teaspoons cumin

2 teaspoons oregano

2 teaspoons chili powder

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon pepper

2 Tablespoons soy sauce

DIRECTIONS

Put olive oil and pecans in a large skillet. Cook on low, stirring, until fragrant – about 5 minutes. Add remaining ingredients. Cool. Pulse in food processor till it resembles ground meat – 30 to 45 seconds. Over processing makes it mushy.

Perfect for Passover Quiche

Passover is in April and my no crust quiche is a gracious addition to every cook’s repertoire whether you observe Passover or not.

MAKES 1 (9”) DEEP DISH QUICHE

SERVES 6 TO 8

PAN SIZE: 9 “ROUND X 2 ¼” DEEP PIE PAN (SEE COOK’S TIP BELOW)

INGREDIENTS

1 small head cauliflower (washed, drained and damp)

1 ¾ cups heavy cream

1 teaspoon salt

6 eggs

5 oz. your fav natural cheese, shredded (about 1½ cups)

DIRECTIONS

1. Mist pan with baking spray. Cut damp cauliflower into ½” pieces. Measure 4 cups and put into pan. A little more or less is OK. Cover. Microwave till soft – about 5 minutes. Remove cover. Whisk remaining ingredients together. Pour over cauliflower. Cool, cover and refrigerate overnight.

2. Next day, preheat oven to 325 degree and bake (uncovered) until center is set to a light touch –45 to 50 minutes. Cool 10 minutes before cutting.

COOK’S TIP

9” pie pans come in 2 depths – Regular (1.5 inches) or Deep Dish (2.25 inches). If your pan is not deep dish, you’ll have leftover custard. Bake it separately in a buttered custard cup until set to a light touch. L

From our family to yours, thank you your ongoing patronage over the 20 years. is because of you, we able to celebrate this anniversary. It honor to call you our customers.

to yours, thank you your ongoing patronage over the 20 years. It is because of you, we to celebrate this anniversary. It honor to

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So many restaurants, so little time

LongHorn Steakhouse plans to take over TGI Fridays space in Woodbridge

LongHorn Steakhouse is coming to Smoketown Station in Woodbridge. The popular chain eatery, which also has a location in Manassas, plans to take over the space at 13237 Worth Ave. in Woodbridge near PetSmart and previously occupied by TGI Fridays. The roughly 5,900-square-foot restaurant will seat just shy of 200 across the dining room and bar.

King Street Oyster Bar to open new location at Arlington's National Landing

Popular restaurant concept King Street Oyster Bar will continue its growth with a sixth location at Sage at National Landing in Arlington, across the street from Amazon’s HQ2. The company plans to open the Arlington eatery in early 2025, according to a news release. The oyster bar will occupy 5,627 square feet at the mixed-use residential development. Founded in 2016 with its first location on King Street in downtown Leesburg, King Street Oyster Bar currently operates four other locations: Middleburg in Virginia; Potomac, Maryland; and in the NoMa and City Ridge neighborhoods in Washington, D.C. Sage National Landing’s surrounding neighborhood is already occupied by established retailers Whole Foods, Nordstrom, Sweetgreen and Orangetheory Fitness.

Closer to home, Voodoo Brother Cajun Creole and Luma Asian Fusion are coming to Old Town Manassas

Voodoo Brother Cajun Creole and Luma Asian Fusion will occupy 9110 and 9112 Center Street in Old Town Manassas, which formerly housed Okra’s Cajun Creole, which closed in 2021 after 23 years in business. With Voodoo Brothers Cajun Creole, local restaurateur Antonio Escamilla, known for Mariachi's Restaurant and La China Poblana Taqueria, and partner Luke Tamer are seeking to bring a vibrant Cajun Creole concept back to Manassas, according to the post. Lume Asian Fusion, meanwhile, is spearheaded by local entrepreneur Chris Sellers in partnership with James Shoemaker. Lume Asian Fusion will offer an innovative take on Asian Korean cuisine.

Mark your calendars!

The 2024 Northern Virginia Senior Olympics is scheduled for Sept. 14-29. Sponsored by the cities of Alexandria, Falls Church and Fairfax and the counties of Arlington, Loudoun, Fairfax, Fauquier and Prince William, opening day of this year’s Olympics will be at the Thomas Jefferson Community Center in Arlington, followed by track events, where a new electronic timing system will be introduced. Registration will open Monday, July 1, and close Aug. 29. For details about and registration for the 2024 event, visit nvso.us. For information about becoming a patron, contact nvso1982@gmail.com

Attention Nordstrom shoppers!

Bored Rebel, featured in the June 2023 issue of this magazine and included in the 2023 and 2024 “swag bags” given to celebrity presenters at the Academy Awards, is now available online at Nordstrom.

And if all that’s not big enough news about this locally owned business, they just launched a wedding line that’ll make you wish you were planning one! And if you are planning one, check out all their entire collection here: boredrebel.com/weddings (Editor’s pick: Best Man tee shirt emblazoned with “Can’t believe they trusted me with the rings.”)

Eamonn Mcevilly participates in one of the track events at the Northern Virginia Senior Olympics in 2022. Edward D. Marion

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