Prince William Living November 2017

PAGE 10

SPILLING SOME INK

PAGE 14

BRENTSVILLE JAIL

PAGE 22

LOTUS WELLNESS CENTER

prince william living November 2017

The premiere lifestyle magazine of Prince William and Greater Manassas

Giving Back Awards PAGE 4

Getting Marines to and through College PAGE 21

Is this Goodbye?

PAGE 37

princewilliamliving.com

GE T BACK IN THE GAME FOR LIFE’S SPECIAL MOMENTS

The Orthopedic Program at Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center Sentara OrthoJoint Center ® • Total hip replacement, including anterior hip option • Total knee replacement, including express track option • Total shoulder replacement including stemless option • Robotic joint replacement

Sentara Back & Neck Center • Minimally invasive surgery • Artificial disk replacement

Foot & Ankle Program at Sentara • Diagnosis and treatment of complex foot & ankle conditions

Orthopedic Navigator • Available to navigate you through your surgical experience

TO FIND AN ORTHOPEDIC PHYSICIAN VISIT SENTAR A .COM My Health.

My Community. #MySentara.

table of contents November 2017 | Vol. 7 | No. 11

FEATURE STORY Prince William Living Giving Back Awards

4

DEPARTMENTS FROM THE EDITOR IN CHIEF Contemplating Gratitude

14

20

3

ON A HIGH NOTE Spilling Some Ink

10

DESTINATIONS Brentsville Jail: Murder and Scandal in 19th Century Prince William

14

LIFELONG LEARNING Getting Marines to and through College: Voluntary Education Center at Quantico

21

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS Lotus Wellness Center: A Local Respite for Mind, Body and Spirit

22

FAMILY FUN Baking Mason Jar Pies with Your Children

24

LOCAL FLAVOR Remodeled Red Lobster Offers Dynamic Ambience, New Menu Options and Old Favorites CALENDAR

30 34

COLUMNS

24

30

THE FASHION FOLDER HEALTH & WELLNESS HOME & HEARTH YOUR FINANCES

prince william living November 2017

12 20 28 32

|1

prince william living Rebecca Barnes

PRINCE WILLIAM LIVING PUBLISHER rbarnes@princewilliamliving.com DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Amanda Causey Baity ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Vanessa Vega Braun, vbraun@princewilliamliving.com Leticia Moreno, lmoreno@princewilliamliving.com Alyssa Souvignier, asouvignier@princewilliamliving.com

Kim Howard, CAE EDITOR IN CHIEF khoward@princewilliamliving.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Amanda Causey Baity, Amy Falkofske, Lisa CollinsHaynes, Jennifer Lazzo, Roxy Rowton, Tracy Shevlin, Dan Verner, Marianne Weaver, Bennett Whitlock COPY EDITORS Apryl Motley, CAE, Peter Lineberry and Ashleigh Balsamo

GRAPHIC DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Alison Dixon/Image Prep Studio ONLINE SUBMISSION MANAGER Carole Keily GIVE BACK PRINCE WILLIAM INITIATIVE Caitlin Stephens, caitlin@givebackpw.org Leticia Moreno, lmoreno@princewilliamliving.com

PHOTO EDITOR Amanda Causey Baity PHOTOGRAPHERS Amanda Causey Baity and Amy Falkofske

Prince William Living, the premiere lifestyle magazine of Prince William and Greater Manassas, is published monthly by Prince William Living, Inc. The opinions expressed in the magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Prince William Living. Š Copyright 2017 by Prince William Living, Inc. All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced or translated without written permission.

Visit the Prince William Living website at www.princewilliamliving.com for reprint permission.

Prince William Living 4491 Cheshire Station Plaza, PMB 55 Dale City, VA 22193 Phone: (703) 232-1758 Efax: (703) 563-9185

Editorial Have a story you’d like our staff to cover? Contact Prince William Living editorial staff at (703) 232-1758, ext. 2, or at editor@princewilliamliving.com.

Advertising offices: (703) 232-1758, ext. 3 Efax: (703) 563-9185

Advertising Prince William Living accepts display advertising.

For complete advertising information, contact our sales staff at (703) 232-1758, ext. 3, or at sales@princewilliamliving.com.

Social Media

Get More Prince William Living

Editorial offices: (703) 232-1758, ext. 2 Efax: (703) 563-9185

Prince William Living can be found on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, YouTube, Google+ and Instagram.

Visit pwliving.com for daily updates on events, the arts, nonprofits, dining and entertainment in your neighborhood.

Look for Prince William Living contests, get-togethers, deals and more. You can also submit a story or event online. Stay plugged into what is happening and what is important to you. Prince William Living is your community magazine, all month long.

Subscription rate is $15 (Continental U.S.) for one year. Change of address notices should be sent to Prince William Living at info@princewilliamliving.com.

Reprints and Back Issues: To order article reprints or request reprint permission, please visit the website: www.princewilliamliving.com. Order back issues by emailing Prince William Living at info@princewilliamliving.com.

For further information about Prince William Living, visit www.princewilliamliving.com, or contact Prince William Living at (703) 232-1758.

2 |

November 2017 prince william living

from the Editor in Chief Contemplating Gratitude

N

ovember is a busy time for our family. In addition to the Thanksgiving holiday, we also celebrate our wedding anniversary and my husband’s birthday. This month, Mike and I will celebrate 26 years as a married couple, 17 of which we have spent in Manassas. So, we consider this area our home.

I love to see that members of this community are so generous with their time, talent and treasure. Our annual Giving Back Award winner, nominated and voted on by you, is Carried To Full Term. This nonprofit provides long-term residential support to mothers in crisis as a result of pregnancy. Read about how this organization impacts the community and find out which other nonprofits were given honorable mentions in the cover story by Marianne Weaver. “Prince William Living Giving Back Awards” can be accessed on page 4.

And as the daughter and wife of veterans, and given that Veterans Day is Nov. 11, our timing on this month’s Lifelong Learning is perfect. Jennifer Lazzo authors “Getting Marines to and through College: Voluntary Education Center at Quantico” where active duty, veterans and Department of Defense employees can work on their educational goals. See page 19 for details.

Most of us don’t want to go to jail. But, after reading our Destinations piece this month, you might change your mind.

Amy Falkofske’s article, “Brentsville Jail: Murder and Scandal in 19th Century Prince William” on page 14 is worth reading, especially if you are a history buff.

This month’s On a High Note showcases Spilled Ink, an open mic night at a local coffeehouse. Writer Dan Verner talks about what you can expect if you find yourself at Jirani on the fourth Friday of the month in “Spilling Some Ink.” Page 10 is where you can read all about it.

The hustle and bustle of the holiday season will soon be upon us. To help alleviate a little holiday stress and since November is the month that we celebrate Thanksgiving, you may wish to start a gratitude journal and jot down one, two or three things that you are grateful for each day. I’ve done this for several years, and contemplating gratitude always makes me feel better no matter what kind of day I have had.

Kim Howard, CAE Editor in Chief

prince william living November 2017

|3

Prince William Living

Giving Back Awards

By Marianne E. Weaver

P

art of the Prince William Living mission is to enhance the quality of life in our community and to inspire our readers to do the same. In every issue, we feature organizations that give back through their missions and good works, creating greater awareness and support of their efforts.

Once a year, we invite our readers to nominate outstanding nonprofit organizations in Prince William County, Manassas and Manassas Park for our “Giving Back Awards.” A combination of public nominations and voting and evaluation by PWL judges is used in determining the winners. By including a public vote, we hope to build awareness of the many nonprofit organizations working to enhance Prince William while we also discover new opportunities to give back that we can then introduce to our readers in future issues.

This year, our winning organizations share a common mission: protecting, educating and inspiring the youth in Prince William.

4 |

November 2017 prince william living

From the tiniest newborns (and their mothers) to graduating high school seniors, these organizations have stepped up to support our region’s youth and their families.

2017 Prince William Living Giving Back Award Winner: Carried To Full Term Carried To Full Term (CTFT), a nonprofit organization based in Haymarket, provides long-term residential support to expectant mothers in crisis as a result of pregnancy. Women admitted to the program plan and prepare for their newborns for up to 24 months. They are responsible for maintaining the home, caring for their children, securing and retaining employment, completing their education, and participating in a program that leads to self-sufficiency and independence.

“I was six months pregnant and sleeping in a broken-down car in the winter,” said a resident, who chose to remain anonymous.

“I found out about Carried To Full Term, and they took me in.

I’ve done more in my life in the short four months that I’ve lived here [than I did previously]. I feel so accomplished.”

Naomi Sanders, who nominated the organization, said CTFT takes in mothers in crisis to help eliminate the burden of housing, so they can focus on caring for their children while learning to be self-sufficient.

“After two years of saving, continuing their education, and working to learn a new way to live, they are able to move out of the house with all the life skills they need to start over,” said Sanders. “We are here to support one another. We are here to love one another. Life happens and there are things that are beyond our control, but we can pray, encourage, build up, and cry together and just support one another. It is the definition of what it means to love.”

Frances Robin, executive director, said she had spent many years working at crisis centers throughout Prince William before founding CTFT in 2009. It then became a nonprofit in 2014.

“Through conversations and observation, it was very apparent that housing was the missing piece to complement a bevy of services offered to families in crisis,” she said. “Without adequate housing, families have trouble managing their daily lives.

Families without income or enough money to cover vital needs, such as food, health or utilities, are most at risk for other crises.

When housing needs are met, families can focus more on caring for each other.”

Robin explained that CTFT is more than a shelter for pregnant women, but rather a community-supported home that helps expectant mothers learn to care for themselves and their children.

She said CTFT has cultivated partnerships with women’s and church groups, other nonprofits and healthcare organizations.

All prenatal and delivery services are provided by Novant Health UVA Health Systems.

“The thing that immediately sets our organization apart is the length of stay we offer to our mothers and their children.

Mothers are able to stay for 24 months,” she said. “We also provide support in the following areas: Education completion, job search, parenting and financial classes, and life skills prep.

Our moms are also required to give back to the community by volunteering 20 hours a month.”

Residents earn points for achieving goals and then use those points to shop at the house boutique, which is stocked with baby items that local residents and organizations donate.

“I’ve never lived on my own before,” said another resident, who chose to remain anonymous. “I am 19 years old. I was raped by (continues on page 6)

prince william living November 2017

|5

(continued from page 5)

Since its founding in 2013, Shaaber said IMPACTO has: n sponsored disadvantaged youth for Leadership Prince William’s Youth Academy;

a family member. Since I’ve left home, I’ve lived with friends, sleeping on their couches. I am so happy to have my own room and my own bed.”

To date, CTFT has taken in 11 mothers, two of which have given birth while in the home. A third baby was born in October.

“I am so grateful to have a safe place to [stay when I] bring my daughter home from the hospital,” said another resident.

CTFT is always in need of community support: mentors, volunteers and financial donations. For more information, visit the website at carriedtofullterm.com.

Honorable Mention: Impacto Youth Impacto is short for Influence, Motivate, Promote, Accomplish and Create Total Opportunity.

“We serve socially and economically disadvantaged youth in the Greater Prince William area,” said Caroline Shaaber, executive director. “We aim to create leaders and productive members of our local community while empowering our youth to obtain their goals.”

IMPACTO Youth supports programs to positively influence atrisk youth. Programs range from alternative learning approaches for at-risk children with learning disabilities to financial literacy education for older youth entering the “real world.”

6 |

November 2017 prince william living

n funded five robotics floors and one travel robotics floor that impact schools throughout Prince William; n developed an in-school leadership program in conjunction with Rotary International that will be placed in high schools throughout the region; n purchased tablets for elementary schools to empower and progress student literacy; and n Sponsored 133 students to attend the Boys and Girls Club summer camp in 2016.

“Our focus is in the areas of leadership, learning, literacy and workforce development,” said Shaaber. “We will continue to support socially and economically disadvantaged youth in our community and create opportunities for them to succeed in our very own backyard.”

She said IMPACTO Youth supports its mission by working and collaborating with local schools in Prince William County, the City of Manassas and the City of Manassas Park to help increase the percentage of graduates who complete a curriculum that prepares them for post-secondary education and the workforce.

“We continue to foster the love of STEM programs in the community with special emphasis on females in the STEM world,” said Shaaber. “We continually seek out opportunities for students to succeed by facilitating our programs or simply making sure a child has the technology needed in order to be successful.”

For more information on IMPACTO Youth, go to impactoyouth.org.

Claudia Morales, executive director, said that although parents pay tuition, YOPW is also supported through grants and private donations.

Honorable Mention: Youth Orchestras of Prince William

“We will never turn anyone away for financial constraints,” she said. “We will work with families, regardless of what their financial situation is.”

The mission of the Youth Orchestras of Prince William (YOPW) is to promote quality music education, provide a range of performance opportunities, foster musical awareness and appreciation, and produce cultural experiences for youth throughout the Prince William region.

“The Youth Orchestras of Prince William is an amazing music program for the young people in our community,” said Amy Nickerson, YOPW vice president and nominator. “Children 6-18 may participate, build their appreciation for music, and pursue their passion.”

YOPW began as a single orchestra founded in 1981 by the Woodbridge Music Club. In 1984, it became an independent organization and inaugurated its second ensemble, the Concert Orchestra. The Primo and Repertory Orchestras were added in 1988 to provide opportunities for younger string students.

In 2001, the program expanded to include the Preparatory Orchestra for introductory string players, and in 2003 the sixth ensemble—the Wind Symphony—was created to provide enrichment for middle school-aged wind, brass and percussion players.

For more information on the Youth Orchestras of Prince William, go to yopw.org.

Marianne Weaver (mweaver@princewilliamliving.com) is a freelance editor and writer. She earned a BA from the University of Pittsburgh and an MJ from Temple University.

Selecting Our Winners A combination public vote and ratings by PWL judges is used in determining the winners. Why a public vote? At Prince William Living, we want to encourage volunteerism among our readers.

By including a public vote, we hope to build awareness of the many nonprofit organizations working to enhance Prince William and introduce our readers to new opportunities to give back to the community.

Follow our giving back initiative on Facebook at facebook.com/GiveBackPW

“YOPW not only keeps children busy and out of trouble, but it gives them a chance to thrive in a diverse and supportive environment, which is brought together through music,” said Nickerson. “I was once a member of YOPW, and some of my favorite childhood memories came from rehearsing and performing with friends. I made lasting friendships and connections through music.”

prince william living November 2017

|7

Sponsor of Lunch with the Publisher— Make the Most of Prince William Living

COLUMBARIA

Custom Events Celebrate your next event with us!

A beautiful and private location for eternal rest and present comfort.

Saint Benedict Monastery • 9535 Linton Hall Road Bristow, VA 20136 • 571-428-2504 • www.osbva.org

Most people 55 years or older have cataracts and may not even know it. Is it time for you to have a cataract evaluation?

Dominion Eye Care has been a leader in cataract surgery for years and offers several options for cataract surgery.

Whatever your activities are and your visual needs warrant we can a provide you with the information and excellent care you deserve. Now offering traditional lenses, Lifestyle lenses and laser – assisted cataract surgery.

We are here to meet your eye care needs and answer any questions you may have.

Why not call today to schedule a visit?

ALAN C. EGGE, MD | CHARLES C. HOGGE, MD JENNIFER H. JACOBS, MD Board Certified Ophthalmologists and LASIK Surgeons MANASSAS 8140 Ashton Avenue Suite 120 Manassas, VA 20109 703.361.3128

WARRENTON 388 Hospital Drive Warrenton, VA 20186 540.349.0906

HAYMARKET 15195 Heathcote Blvd. • Suite 310 Haymarket, VA 20169 571.261.3033

8 |

November 2017 prince william living

Private room available for rehearsal dinners, lunch meetings, birthday celebrations, retirement receptions. Many menu options available.

703-330-2729 www.okras.com

9110 Center St. | Manassas, VA

1000 Books Before Kindergarten For Infants Through Preschoolers Sign up today at any Prince William Public Library pwcgov.org/library

BadWolf Public House

is a full-service restaurant and brewery. Our two-story restaurant features a classic Public House atmosphere with a modern touch.

Our full-service bar and dining room is the perfect spot to frequent and enjoy one of our many in-house brewed craft beers and scratch made cuisine.

BadWolf Public House 9406 Battle St., Manassas, VA, 20110.

571-292-1427 www.badwolfpublichouse.com

prince william living November 2017

|9

on a high note

Spilling Some Ink

By Dan Verner

A

nyone walking by Jirani Coffeehouse in Historic Manassas on a fourth Friday evening of the month will see the front room comfortably filled. Spilled Ink, an open mic opportunity started by John Dutton, a local teacher and writer, has drawn both writers and listeners.

Dutton, who emcees the gathering, doesn’t look like anybody’s idea of a poet. The well-built, crew-cut wrestling coach has a commanding voice and an outgoing personality. He is a sixth grade language arts teacher at Beville Middle School, who crafts whimsical poetry and pointed stories about standards of learning (SOL) testing, among other works. This past July at the open mic, he read his poem, “Armadillo Lost Her Pillow,” which begins: On the day Armadillo lost her pillow, the sun blazed high in Amarillo.

Delusions danced and her mind did go while she frolicked about, to and fro.

When she stumbled into her bungalow, her only thought was of marshmallows toasted soft and brown in the fire’s glow

10 |

November 2017 prince william living

Dutton went on to recount a tale of a hapless armadillo who can’t find her pillow. His voice alternately cracking with concern and wistful with hope, and then joyful in triumph, Dutton doesn’t so much read the poem as perform it. (It’s notable that “Armadillo” only uses one rhyme for the whole poem, a difficult proposition for anyone.)

The 26 or so writers at the event in July, who ranged in age from four years old to some in their 80’s, joined with the 30 people in the audience to applaud Dutton’s effort, and then he introduced the next reader. The room was full that night, but such was not always the case with Spilled Ink.

Local Poets Open Mic Night Grows The open mic started out at Grounds Central Station, another Manassas coffee house, in January 2015. Dutton writes: “The idea for Spilled Ink came after I had attended a writers’ and poets’ night held at Deja Brew in Haymarket hosted by former Prince William County Poet Laureate Robert Scott. My problem was that Haymarket was a two-hour round trip for me, so I could not attend the event on a regular schedule. I wished for something

more centrally located so that more people in Prince William County could attend on a regular basis, myself included. I felt the people on the east side were missing out on a great opportunity.”

General Manager Matt Brower had allowed writers to meet at Grounds Central informally for some time, and he also displayed their books for sale. “At first, Spilled Ink sometimes only involved writers reading to each other,” Dutton said, “but as time went on, we outgrew the space. Jirani opened about the same time, so it was a perfect opportunity. We first met there in April 2016.”

Dutton believes Spilled Ink is successful because of “the relaxed attitude and community feel… It is meant to be fun. I want it to have a ‘no-stress’ atmosphere.” Asked what he likes about the open mic, he replied, “I love the sharing of ideas and inspiration each month and seeing the smiles on the people’s faces. I also like to see people get together before, during, and after the event, talking about what they will be reading, what they have heard. Listening to them also increases my vocabulary.”

Jan Rayl, president of Write by the Rails, a group of local writers, noted, “Spilled Ink is an important outlet for local writers since writing is a solitary craft, and as authors, we connect with others when we read our work aloud. Many of the works we hear at Spilled Ink may never be published, but they have an audience there.”

“The writers at Spilled Ink are nurturing, and they encourage others in their writing while providing honest feedback when asked,” she continued. “When we read our writing, we can find areas of our writing that need polishing. We would not notice these places [on our own] since we work so much in silence.”

interesting. I was even invited to read a few of my short poems.

I am looking forward to the next meeting and will be able to read some of the mountains of words I have put on paper in years past.”

Dutton concluded, “If Spilled Ink interests anyone, he or she can come to Jirani Coffeehouse on the fourth Friday of every month.

The Poet Laureate Circle meets at 6 p.m., followed by the open mic from 7 to 10 p.m.” Dutton also warned, “Spilled Ink has many ages of presenters, so I ask that all material be at a PG-13 [or tamer] rating.”

Spilled Ink obviously has given Dutton the same kind of joy that the Armadillo had when she found her pillow: Her relief exploded from above and below.

Armadillo even felt it in her left little toe!

The world was, once again, good to go, for Armadillo had found her lost pillow.

And John Dutton and the writers of Spilled Ink are certainly good to go.

(For a Spilled Ink or Poet Laureate Circle schedule, visit the Spilled Ink website at SpilledInkVA.com.)

Dan Verner (dverner@princewilliamliving.com) is the author of several books (danverner.com) and was named “Best Writer in Prince William County (Virginia)” for 2014 and 2015 by readers in a “Best of Prince William” poll taken by Prince William Today.

Growing A Poet’s Confidence Dutton took part in the Poet Laureate Circle (led by Alice Mergler) when it was staged at Arts Alive! this past September and the In the Company of Laureates event held on Oct. 8 at the Hylton Performing Arts Center. He anticipates being involved in other similar events throughout the year.

The best thing about Spilled Ink for Dutton is “seeing people grow in confidence. Each month, I see people being brave [enough] to come up and speak for the first time. It only takes once to go from ‘one-time to long-time’ participants. This is true for all ages.”

Judy Petruskie speaks of this experience: “It exceeded all my expectations. I am so glad that I was motivated enough to join the group. The readings were inspiring, some funny, some informing, but all very prince william living November 2017

| 11

the fashion folder Coat Check: When Cold Weather Comes Calling

Holiday Tree Lighting

By Roxy Rowton

W

hen bundling up becomes more of a necessity than a fashion statement, it’s time to stock your wardrobe with coats that not only brave the cold, but are thoughtfully designed and beautifully shaped for around-town polish.

Friday November 24th 6 pm–8 pm

Like so many articles of clothing, coats were outer garments originally designed for utility, protection and warmth—to provide a defense from inclement weather like wind, rain, snow and sleet. These indispensable cold-weather garments kept us warm and dry.

Those Funny Little People, family photos, face painters, and more family fun!

With so many styles, fabrics, colors and price points from which to choose, how do you make the best choice, and which features go into a great coat capsule year after year? Look for the finest and warmest fabrics, versatile tones and hues, thoughtful and defined details, and beautiful and refined cuts, as well as exceptional tailoring. While coat trends may vary considerably with each season, the chicest coats are often the simplest.

Begin assembling your cold-weather coat capsule in fabrications of luxurious, supple materials, such as doublefaced wool, cashmere, alpaca, camel hair and shearling.

A functional, cold-weather capsule revolves around a few essential coats in neutrals and basic colors. Select everyday and classic city staples in hard-working neutrals: black, grey, navy or camel. Then add a coat in a fun color, pattern or print.

A fun-colored coat can certainly brighten the dull, blah days of winter. The ultimate details are practical, thoughtful and beautiful—generous patch or side-slanted pockets, storm flaps, pleated backs, convertible collars, back vents, zip-in linings, detachable hoods, and button or zip bibs.

Winter coats can have a substantial price tag. Consider the investment in a coat as a form of amortization. Make the investment principally in quality, fit and details. The enduring character of beautiful cloths, thoughtful details and elegant tailoring will stand out from less expensive versions and appear more and more refined with the passage of the seasons. The actual cost of the price per wear decreases season after season of wear.

Curate a capsule of city coat staples designed to provide protection and superior comfort from winter’s worst, as well as make a fashionable statement. > See the sidebar on page 31, “How to Fit a Coat.”

Wardrobe and style consultant Roxy L. Rowton (rlrowton@ everydayrefinement.com) spends much of her workweek in the closet or the fitting room helping women look and feel their very best. She has two-plus decades in the fashion, apparel and beauty industries.

12 |

November 2017 prince william living

FREE carriage rides when you donate a canned good.



stonebridgeptc.com

DECember 9th

11 AM-3 PM following the parade

Winter WONDetEtR's LMilAlND Tack

craftstation, a s, er ct ra a ch g Roamin Arts Market, and games, Holiday holiday treats!

VISIT US AT: FACEBOOK.COM/ TACKETTSMILL

RAPPAPORTCO.COM | 571.382.1200

Dough Ornament Workshop Thursday, November 30th 7:00pm-8:30pm (Ages 3-12) Kids can decorate their own dough ornaments.

All materials supplied, and you will be able to take your ornaments home with you. $3.00 for two ornaments.

Gingerbread Houses Thursday, December 7th 7:00pm-8:30pm (Ages 3-12) First, we build our gingerbread houses, and then we decorate using candy and other sweet treats! $5.00/kit. Pre-register at least 3 days prior to event.

Manassas Park Community Center 99 Adams Street Manassas Park, VA 20111 703.335.8872 ManassasParkCommunityCenter.com

Do You Love Your Job? You Should.

Coming Soon!

Our team can help you find a career you’re passionate about.

Dental Assistant

Medical Assistant

Medical Administrative Assistant

Pharmacy Technician

Call 571-408-2100 | www.Everest.edu Woodbridge | 14555 Potomac Mills Road

Now Nonprofit

Most programs are approved for VA benefits.

Programs vary by campus.

For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program and other important information, please visit our website at www.everest.edu/disclosures.

Z-CM-woodbridge CTO SCHEV

FarmBrewLIVE.com prince william living November 2017

| 13

destinations

BRENTSVILLE JAIL Murder and Scandal in 19th Century Prince William Story and Photos By Amy Falkofske

O

ne hundred and forty-five years ago in 1872, the trial of the century took place right here in Prince William.

Standing in the very room in the historic Brentsville jailhouse where it all happened, Bill Backus, historian for the Historic Preservation Division of the Prince William County Department of Public Works, tells the story.

Prince William Commonwealth Attorney James Clark, in his late twenties at the time, “becomes enamored with a local girl in Manassas. She happens to be 16. She also happens to be a very prominent member of the founding family of Manassas,” Backus said.

In love, the couple decides to leave Virginia, but they end up coming back. Shortly afterwards, Clark was arrested for kidnapping and brought to the Brentsville Jail to await his trial at the courthouse next door.

One day while the jailer was out, the girl’s brother, Lucien “Rhoda” Fewell, entered the jailhouse with two pistols. He aimed them through the iron door on Clark’s cell and started shooting.

Clark threw things at the guns in hopes of disarming Fewell, but that didn’t work. Then he started running back and forth to make himself a moving target. Despite all his efforts, Clark ended up getting shot by Fewell and died on Sept. 2, 1872.

A Diverse History Back then Brentsville was the county seat. Manassas didn’t become the county seat until 1893, after Brentsville was damaged during the Civil War. And that’s the reason the buildings, now known as the Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, are able to be preserved today.

Fewell got away at first, but was eventually caught and went to trial. The trial garnered national attention. “This blows up! You could read about this Virginia trial in California, New York, Ohio and Florida. It was usually front-page news,” according to Backus.

“It [moving the county seat to Manassas] hurt the town economically, but it also allows us, in 2017, to have these 1820s buildings still survive,” said Backus. “There’s no reason to modernize the courthouse, and there’s no reason to tear down the 1822 brick jail to rebuild and remodel,” he said.

Fewell ended up being acquitted, with one jury member proclaiming that Clark got what was coming to him because Fewell was just “taking care of his sister’s honor.”

Both the jail and the courthouse have served the community in a variety of ways since then. The courthouse was a college for teachers, and the jail was a dormitory until the 1900s. The jail

14 |

November 2017 prince william living

Renovations to the jail took five years to complete.

would then become a private residence into the 1970s. After that, it would serve as office space for the Park Authority. In 2005, the Historic Preservation Division took over the site to restore it and preserve its history.

Renovations on the jail started in 2012 and finished up in the spring of this year. During the restoration, some of the 20th century alterations were reversed to make the jail as it was in the 19th century again. These included restoring the façade of the building and closing in windows that had been added.

Restoration also included new flooring and wall framing as well as the addition of a stairwell typical of the 19th century.

Future Exhibits Showcase History Currently, the jail is empty except for the plans to restore it as an exhibit where visitors can take guided tours. “Ultimately when this building is complete, out of the eight rooms, four of them will be historically furnished, so you’ll get a sense of what this [jail] looked like when it was an actively used building,” Backus said.

Plans for the room where Clark was shot include installing a panel that will explain the story of Clark’s murder. The panel will have a button that you can push and hear gunshots and someone running back and forth across the room.

The other downstairs cell will focus on educating visitors about how the building was constructed. Faux bricks will be available for visitors to practice creating structures on their own. Backus said the purpose of that room will be to “engage with science, technology, engineering and mathematics and how those were all used in the 1820s to build the jail before there were computers or calculators.”

The headstone of James Clark remains intact on site.

Back then, people with mental illnesses were also held there while they waited for a bed in one of the state’s two mental hospitals. The cells were also used to hold abolitionists before the Civil War. During that time, people who spoke out against slavery were not protected under the First Amendment. One of the upstairs rooms will be furnished like it was as a dorm room in the 1890s.

Finally, there will be a room that explores the African American experience in Prince William in the 19th century. In this particular room, one of the beams and part of the rafters are singed because a slave imprisoned in the cell tried to burn the whole building down and escape in the resulting confusion. He ultimately failed and was tried, convicted and hung right on the grounds of the jail.

As to how and when the construction of the jail exhibit will take place, Backus said, “The Prince William Historic Preservation Foundation is working on raising the remaining funds for the exhibit.” The hope is to have the exhibit completed by next fall.

Currently, the Centre is open May through October, Thursday through Monday. From November to April, you can still visit with a week’s notice. Tours are $5 for adults and discounted for active military, groups and students. For more information, visit pwcgov.org/history.

Amy Falkofske (afalkofske@princewilliamliving.com) is a freelance writer and photographer. She has a Master’s degree in screenwriting from Regent University. She lives in Bristow with her husband, two boys and two Beagle dogs.

Two of the rooms upstairs were initially used to hold debtors.

One of these rooms will be historically furnished once the exhibit is complete. The other one will explore some of the people who were held in debtors’ cells. prince william living November 2017

| 15

Driven.

We call our students brilliant, intellectual and more. They know that NOVA’s flexible learning options on six state-of-the-art campuses deliver quality programs at a value.

Propel your future at NOVA.

It’s smart to come to NOVA. www.nvcc.edu/fall2017

17-292 Fall Ad.indd 1

16 |

November 2017 prince william living

7/12/17 4:01 PM

Local Color

Residents since 2014 and 2013

At Westminster at Lake Ridge, a vibrant and exciting world awaits you. The retirement lifestyle you deserve is shared with the active and engaged friends and neighbors who make our community home, all with peace of mind that comes with on-site health care.

Now accepting wait list deposits.

Call 703-822-4781 or visit us today!

Westminster at Lake Ridge is a CARF accredited, not-for-profit, continuing care retirement community.

703-822-4781 | www.wlrva.org 12191 Clipper Drive | Lake Ridge, VA

prince william living November 2017

| 17

h

•

1----11 C<=:JI L..__ _,J ::==:; E::::::::: STUDEnT

LEADERSHIP CEnTER

Converting Goals Into Life Strengths Now in its twelfth year, The House Student Leadership Center's priority ol promoting youth leadership development and social j ustice advances its core comm itment to helping more yo uth live their best lile stories.

COME TRAIN WITH US The House Stude nt l eadership Center is an origin~tor and provider of out·of-sd'lool time prograrn:> for ..:hild1cn bnd teens in

Woodbridge, VA. The Ce nter's programs magnify th• student voice to expa.nd th•ir opportunity and build community. The 2017 C!talogue for Philanthropy: Greater W~shington recognized the Center as 'Ot'le of

the Best' high·impbc.t nonprof.its for its

mentoring and coltege access initiat,ves.

Before & After School The Center's after-school progr~ms ere open to students, grades 4 12 throughout Prince Wiltiam County, Monday-Friday until 0:30pm.

Additionelly. th$ before·s.chool progfem opens each s.chool dey at 6:00am. Students arrive to the Center through assigned b us 4

fout&.:. and $-huttlos. Yoar....ound p rogtams t'llso

indude summer camp, o pen Monday-Friday 6'00 am · 6 ,Qo pm.

EmpowerMEnt"

National Capital A Cinderella Ball

Empower'M€rn* brings together activist$ and civic lc&dors, lOch mbVCn$, busiM~~ (ound(m;, and inRuentialleaders epic in their fields, and 1inks them to like-mind$d, ambitious young pt."Oplo. This: includes b mix. of keynote conversation s and hands-on workshops that connect stvdents to inspif.et.tion, insight and tools to help them pursue their ptt$5iOns and answer questions.

Taking soci3f j u~tice beyond the limit is its National Capi;al A Cindcrctltt Ball, ts Jt!lp1d

The Office on Youth Mental Health and Well ness The on·stte Office respond# to etOSS--$e-etionel needs of pre-teen "nd te-en youth facing early life challenges: issues like rel ation~hip breakups., bullying, sexual orientation end prejud1ce, depression, anxiety, or other mild to moderate heahh conditions. The Office meets thoce needs. in~ youth·fricndly way with ~uu l y mental he.-.lth suppon services that include Recre.Miona1 Therapy, Neu ro feedbr~ck Tr~ini ng, lu'Kf Cognitive Behavior Therapy.

growth capstone project of students at The House Student Leadership Center. At the (oro f~ont

or ;.'l.dding v:tluo to others, students

carefully plan lind flawlessly execute the

annual quelity·of·life: gift to benefit children from military fam ilies living w1th a life·llmiting disability or illness. Former First lady Michelle Obeme served as th• Honol'eryCheir of the 2014, 201 S, 4nd 2016 anniversary event.

Mentoring Mentoring helps young people succeed in school, work, and life. At The House Student Leadership Cemer, mentor coaches offer both immediete and long tefm support. They address teen needs in goal senmg and dec:ision ma'king for each desired outcome.

Stcp *by~:rtcp t;t~teg i es scn~o both promotior\ and preventron to build capabilities U\ youth Including ~cademic:: achievement, intcrpcr~on& l relati onship~. !:port$ development, college read~ness, and employable !;kills.

#S381 1 CFC I #8720 UNITED WAY

18 |

November 2017 prince william living

THE HOUSE STUDENT LEADERSH IP CENTER I WWW.THEHOUSE-INC.COM

prince william living November 2017

| 19

health & wellness November is COPD Awareness Month

EIDOS TECHNOLOGIES Helping clients

• Leverage existing technologies to streamline business and reduce overhead • Secure, manage, and administer the most important asset: OUR CLIENTS DATA • Manage cloud solutions and website administration To learn more about the services that we offer, please visit: www.eidos-technologies.com Free assessment or consultations are available: info@eidos-technologies.com

703.368.4911

B

reathlessness, frequent coughing, wheezing—these are just some of the symptoms more than 30 million Americans suffer every day because of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, more commonly known as “COPD.” COPD is an umbrella term used to describe progressive lung diseases, including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, non-reversible asthma and some forms of bronchiectasis.

It’s a disease Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center Pulmonologist Dr. Ala Mortazavi of Virginia Pulmonary Associates sees every day. According to him, COPD is much more common than people realize: “The common misconception about COPD is that it’s rare. The sad fact is COPD is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States after heart disease, cancer and stroke.”

COPD affects the lungs, causing reduced airflow, which makes it hard to breathe. The disease is most common in people 40 and older, who have a history of smoking. According to the COPD Foundation, nearly 90 percent of those diagnosed with the disease have smoked.

However, COPD can also occur in those with a genetic predisposition and those who have had long-term contact with harmful pollutants. “The damage COPD does to the lungs cannot be reversed,” explains Dr. Mortazavi. “However, treatment can slow or halt the progression of the disease and help the patient feel better.”

Treatments like oxygen therapy, increased exercise and medications can benefit patients and help them manage their condition. Still, experts say stopping smoking has been the only thing proven to slow the progression of COPD. If you or someone you love is living with COPD, call 1-800-SENTARA to get in touch with a specially trained, certified pulmonologist, who can help determine the best care for you.

20 |

November 2017 prince william living

lifelong learning

Getting Marines to and through College: Voluntary Education Center at Quantico

By Jennifer Lazzo

A

t the Voluntary Education Center (VEC) at Marine Corps Base Quantico, mission critical means providing quality education counseling to primarily U.S. Marines and their families, members of other military branches, veterans and Department of Defense employees, so they can achieve their educational goals.

“Our goal is to get them to and through college,” said Melora McVicker, education services officer. For the past nine years, she has been a part of a team that provides students a roadmap that explores sources of funding, highlights experiences and reviews the training and education necessary to fulfill their dreams.

“My favorite question that I hear is: ‘How do I get started with my education?’ You don’t have to know all the answers before you begin,” she said. “A part of the college experience is exploration.

Explore. Take classes. Find out what you enjoy.”

The education center offers testing, both military and civilian (e.g.

Microsoft, CompTIA), free proctoring services and exams for college credit, which are funded through the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support. Students can gain insight into personality type, aptitude for learning a new language or academic strengths.

McVicker, two academic advisors and three education technicians work together to help students define academic or career goals, provide information to meet those goals and create partnerships with the appropriate resources. Students pursue certifications, licensures and degrees from associate level to Ph.Ds. “We spread the academic offerings to meet the needs of all of our audience,” said McVicker.

In addition, the information and assistance on the financial aspects of gaining higher education they provide to students is also critical.

The VEC team explains how to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), understand the nuances of the G.I. Bill, find both local and national scholarships and apply for the Tuition Assistance (T.A.) program. The T.A. program is for Marines only and provides up to $4,500 each fiscal year.

“We make better citizens when we invest in their education, their future,” McVicker said.

Quantico has agreements with seven universities and colleges, which offer both face-to-face and online classes.

Accessibility Is Key Vida Torres is usually the first person students and potential students see when visiting the education center. As one of the education technicians, Torres helps with immediate needs, such as providing a student with guides to potential schools or programs, confirming account information, acting as liaison with the student’s school or directing the student to a VEC colleague. She serves approximately 300–500 students per month, whether it is in person, by telephone or via email.

The VEC serves students both locally and around the world. The Marine Corps, as well as other branches of the military, have 17 similar education centers around the nation and internationally.

Each education center has its own agreements with higher education institutions based on audience need. Quantico has agreements with seven universities and colleges, which offer both face-to-face and online classes.

Many students focus on general studies, information technology and business, according to Torres. “They want to be able to take the credits with them if they were to separate from the military prior to completion,” she said.

The VEC opens before most buildings at Quantico, beginning the day at 7:30 a.m. and ending at 10 p.m. for evening classes. The education center also stays open through the lunch hour as well to accommodate the needs of its local students. “We want to be as accessible as possible,” Torres said.

To accommodate students who may live in other time zones, some across the world, Torres said they check the general inbox (continues on page 33) prince william living November 2017

| 21

taking care of business

Lotus Wellness Center A Local Respite for Mind, Body and Spirit

By Tracy Shevlin

T

he concepts of health and wellness arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t new, but they have become frequent buzzwords in business and in our everyday lives. While health is often thought of in terms of healthcare and medicine, wellness is the prevention of illnesses and the optimization of life. It is no secret that people who are physically and emotionally stable lead more productive lives.

There are many options for people looking to embrace a healthy lifestyle, but holistic healing is not a familiar topic for everyone.

Prince William Living spoke to Uma Alexandra Beepat, owner of Lotus Wellness Center, to learn more about what it means to operate a holistic wellness center.

Holistic Healing The basic principle of holistic healing is to bring the body, mind, spirit and emotions into alignment for optimal health and wellness. People who practice holistic healing focus on five

aspects of what they believe it means to be whole: respecting their bodies, healing their relationships, caring for their environment, showing love for all humankind, and living their lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s purpose.

About Lotus Wellness Beepat, an expert in holistic healing and a certified life coach, first opened the center in her basement in 2009. Beepat told Prince William Living that Lotus Wellness Center originally focused on massage, but quickly became a holistic wellness center, as she came to know clients and recognized their needs.

The business has grown rapidly since its inception and now has its third location on Mosby Street in Manassas.

In a model similar to how many salons and spas operate, Beepat has partnered with specialized practitioners to meet the demand for services. Each practitioner is independent, but benefits from the overlapping clientele and space. The center hosts classes and services related to Reiki healing, essential oils, and energy therapies in addition to more traditional services, such as massage, meditation and yoga classes.

Beepat now spends much of her time coaching clients and leading mentorship classes that she personally created, various energetic healing modalities and spiritual/mediumship sessions.

Her goal is to help clients unblock energies that prevent them from being their best versions of themselves. She is a firm believer that clients canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t experience true joy when they have trained themselves to suppress and stifle their emotions due to the loss of a relationship or other issue.

Beepat knows that the spiritual side of her business is more controversial than some of the mainstream services that the

22 |

November 2017 prince william living

center provides. Yet, she is unapologetic. She told Prince William Living, “Growing up in Guyana, South America, the spiritual aspect of life was an important part of my culture. It is a part of who I am and a part of my business. I am not afraid of or shocked by any secret that a client brings to the session. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space for clients to share their burdens and offload them once and for all.”

Blurred Lines when Personal and Professional Lives Intersect According to Beepat, boundaries can blur when a business is based on personal services. On the one hand, managing relationships is key, but they become blurry when clients think of her as their friend. “Due to the intimate nature of the sessions, there is some transference of emotions by clients. They begin to see me as a friend who listens and is there for them. It can get complicated if they start to blur personal and professional lines,” she explained.

With much of today’s marketing being done on social media, it can be difficult to separate her personal and professional lives.

“So much of my life is on Facebook and other social media platforms, but it’s still my personal life,” Beepat said. “I have both personal and professional Facebook pages and manage a meetup group called ‘The Lotus and the Light,’ which has more than 1,500 members. Clients are sometimes offended when I direct them to the professional page or don’t accept friend requests on my personal page, but I am their coach and mentor first and foremost.”

About Uma Beepat Beepat’s passion for helping people was the catalyst that led to the opening of Lotus Wellness Center. By the age of 10, she had volunteered by donating half of her allowance to children’s charities. She continues to volunteer with Cross-Cultural Solutions and has been to Guatemala, Peru, Morocco and Brazil for international outreach in impoverished communities.

She spent a year with AmeriCorps, volunteering as an HIV Specialist in Philadelphia, and a year volunteering with Varqa Foundation and the United Nations in her home country of Guyana.

,.

,,

In addition to her other volunteerism, she is passionate about women’s empowerment. She enjoys speaking to women’s groups and will often do so for free. She is excited anytime that she can inspire and empower women through her talks.

'

'

'

.\

She attributes her success with Lotus Wellness Center to three things. First, she knows who she is, and she is authentic to who she is in her business. She stands clear in her identity, purpose and life’s work. Secondly, clear boundaries are key, and she is not afraid to let others know where they stand with her, what is acceptable and what is not. Lastly, she knows the value of her services at a market level and as a practitioner. According to her, knowing one’s value as an entrepreneur, consultant or freelancer is critical to success. Beepat’s long-term goal is to make Lotus Wellness Center a renowned destination for holistic healing, a place for conferences, seminars and holistic education.

In the short term, she recognizes the opportunity to affect our community one client at a time.

To learn more about the Lotus Wellness Center, visit lotuswellnesscenter.net or call 703-369-6762.

Tracy Shevlin (tshevlin@princewilliamliving.com) is a native Virginian and long-time Manassas area resident. She is a graduate of George Mason University where she is also an office manager.

Follow her on Twitter @nvalady1.

prince william living November 2017

| 23

family fun

Baking Mason Jar Pies with Your Children Story and Photos By Amanda Causey Baity

D

uring the holiday season, our house is full of activity. Since it is usually too cold for long outside play time, like most families with small children, we do more indoor activities. Baking and crafting are always at the top of the list.

My children are picky, so to make them all happy, there are times that I bake separate dishes for them during the holidays. Mini-pies are a perfect way to get children of all ages actively involved with holiday baking and help them independently create their desserts. Using Mason jars in your baking efforts add a little nostalgia that just might create a new family holiday baking tradition. (continues on page 26)

24 |

November 2017 prince william living

What Would Happen to Them If Something Happened to You? You need more than a Will in case something tragic happens to you.

A proper estate plan provides both effective inheritance and incapacity protection.

Home Care Service With A Ingleside at Home is dedicated to providing high-quality personal and customized services in the comfort of your home. Whether you need a helping hand with homemaking, someone to assist you with everyday activities or a friendly caregiver to support your rehabilitation or recovery, we work with you to tailor a service plan that perfectly fits your needs.

Our extensive screening process and client-caregiver matching system ensure that your care provider not only has the skills to serve your needs but also will be a trustworthy and compassionate companion. Monthly follow-up surveys assure that both you and your caregiver are happy with the relationship and that rigorous quality standards are being followed.

Contact Hometown Estate Planning at (571) 208-0425 to schedule your free meeting and discover how to achieve a peaceful estate plan for your family.

9116 Center Street, Suite 108 Manassas, Virginia 20110 (571) 208-0425

www.hometownestateplanning.com

As part of the Ingleside family of not-for-profit senior care providers, we share a long tradition of expertise, innovation and empathy in senior care, as well as the highest ethical standards and financial security.

To learn more call 866-957-8246 or visit us at www.inglesideathome.org

2275 Research Blvd., Suite 450 | Rockville, MD 20850 866.957.8246 | www.inglesideathome.org prince william living November 2017

| 25

PIES (continued from page 24) Mason Jar Pies Ingredients • You will need two wide-mouth Mason jar lids.

For the crust: • 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for rolling • ¼ teaspoon salt • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold • ¼ teaspoon apple cider vinegar • 3-4 tablespoons ice-cold water For the filling: (You can use your favorite recipe here.)

• 1 cup berries or another fruit that you prefer • 1 teaspoon lemon juice • 2 teaspoons flour • 1 tablespoon sugar • 1 egg, beaten • Optional: sparkling sugar for topping the pies Directions Take the wide-mouth Mason jar lids and turn them so that the rubber rings are down. You want to cook the pies on the metal side.

Next, make the crust: In a small bowl, stir together the flour and salt with a fork. Cube the butter into 16 chunks. Add half of the chunks of butter to the flour mixture and stir gently, and then add the remaining butter chunks.

This is the most important step: Use your fingertips to cream the butter into the flour. Pinch and smear the butter between your fingertips repeatedly, like you’re snapping.

Work the butter into the flour for quite a while, making sure it is evenly incorporated and the dough almost comes together in clumps when you squeeze it in your hands. The warmth of your hands is bringing the dough together, so if it’s still flour-y, keep working it.

Finally, add the vinegar and three tablespoons of the ice-cold water. Stir with a fork, and the dough will easily come together into a mass. If you live in an arid climate, add the extra tablespoon of water. Scoop the dough out onto a piece of plastic wrap, shape it into a disk and store it wrapped in the fridge for 30 minutes. If you store the dough longer than 30 minutes, let it warm up before rolling.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and line a small sheet pan with parchment. Place the Mason jar lids with the rubber side down in the ring on the parchment paper.

Mix your berries, lemon juice, flour and sugar in a small bowl. Stir well. Set aside while you roll out the dough.

26 |

November 2017 prince william living

Flour the counter and bring the dough out of the fridge.

Place the dough in the center of your flour, and flour the top of the dough. Begin gently rolling the dough out away from you, making a quarter-turn clockwise after every two rolls. This method keeps the dough from sticking to the counter and also creates a perfect circle.

When you have a circle large enough for four Mason jar lids, you’re ready. Place one Mason jar lid on the pastry and use a knife to cut ¼” around the lid. Repeat one time. Use just the lid top (not the ring) to cut out two pie tops. You will have excess dough—you can make three pies or make pie crust cookies in the oven while the pie bakes.

Gently move the bottom piecrusts to the Mason jar lids with rings and press them into place. Scoop half of the fruit mixture onto each. Top the fruit mixture with the pie tops. Brush beaten egg very generously on each mini pie. Sprinkle with sparkling sugar, if desired.

Bake for 35-37 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling and the crust is brown.

Let cool five minutes. To serve, run a knife along the edge of the Mason jar ring to release the pie.

Use the Mason jar itself to pour a large glass of milk and enjoy your pie!

Amanda Causey Baity (abaity@princewilliamliving.com), Prince William Living’s director of operations and photo editor, also blogs about thrifty family activities on her blog GreenOwlCrafts.com.

OPEN HOUSE Join us for

as we celebrate10 GREAT years!

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2017, 1-4PM Presentations at 1:15pm and 2:15pm The first 100 8th graders to RSVP receive a free t-shirt!

10 Years 9 International Mission and Pilgrimage Trips

8 HOUSES 7 Graduating Classes

6 0+ MILLION

in Academic Scholarships 5 Core Bioethics Courses 4 Catholic State ATHLETIC CHAMPIONSHIPS 3 Chaplains | 2 Principals

1 GREAT School!

Saint John Paul the Great Catholic High School

17700 Dominican Dr., Dumfries, VA 22026 | 703.445.0300 | admissions@jpthegreat.org | jpthegreat.org prince william living November 2017 | 27

home & hearth Composite Decks Still Require Some Maintenance

By Steve Chapman

L

ast month, I wrote about the pros and cons of composite decking. This month, we will discuss two class action lawsuits against Trex and their settlements. In the first lawsuit from 2004, the main claim was that Trex engaged in false advertising by saying its product was maintenance free. The company never admitted liability but settled the matter to avoid prolonged and expensive litigation.

As a result of this lawsuit, Trex hired the Environmental Solutions Association (ESA) to mitigate problems. Locally, ESA hired Wash My Deck based on our experience in mold and mildew removal as well as in restoring older composite decks.

ESA provided us with a stain and instructions for cleaning and treating the decks. We were hired to exclusively mitigate Trex decks that were subject to the lawsuit.

The second lawsuit in 2013 was a class action filed against Trex for allegedly misrepresenting two issues with its decks: (1) the product fades significantly over time and (2) mold makes its way to the surface because of the manufacturing process, which I alluded to in last month’s column. While the surface mold can be cleaned, it comes back quickly. The result of this lawsuit was that Trex again did not accept any responsibility; however the company settled to avoid prolonged and expensive litigation.

Their settlement agreement included three tiers to remediate the consumer problems.

After these lawsuits, Trex posted a Mold Technical Bulletin, which states: “All exterior building materials require cleaning. Trex is no exception. Periodic cleaning of Trex decking will remove dirt and pollen that can feed mold. If mold colonies appear, clean the deck with a commercial deck wash containing a detergent and sodium hypochlorite, commonly known as bleach. This chemical will remove the mold, but please be aware it will also lighten the wood on the surface. In some cases, it will require several treatments with the deck wash to completely remove all mold colonies. Even if the spots are no longer visible, there may still be mold spores on the surface that could re-grow, so periodic cleaning is important.”

Steve Chapman (steve@washmydeck.com) started WashMyDeck.com more than 20 years ago. His company currently has more than 20,000 customers.

28 |

November 2017 prince william living

I was sure I'd hate it.

Then I saw Arbor Terrace Sudley Manor.

At Arbor Terrace Sudley Manor, we’re doing away with all the traditional stereotypes of assisted living.

We invite you to visit our community and experience the difference of Arbor Terrace. You’ll see a home where family and friends come to gather, to create meaningful moments.

Call or visit us online to set up a tour today!

Assisted Living & Memory Care for Seniors An Arbor Company Community 7750 Garner Drive, Manassas, VA 20109

(703) 392-9797

www.at-sudleymanor.com

Prince William Historic Preservation Foundation Now Offering Free Memberships!

Stay Connected with Local History with monthly newsletters, discounts on admission to our county’s historic sites and 20% off items in site gift shops!

Please sign up at www.preservepw.org

prince william living November 2017

| 29

local flavor

Remodeled Red Lobster Offers Dynamic Ambience, New Menu Options and Old Favorites

By Lisa Collins-Haynes

T

he Manassas Red Lobster, located at 7505 Broken Branch Lane, was selected from 704 other locations as the first restaurant to receive one of several remodel prototypes.

When asked why the Manassas location was chosen, General Manager Jesse Green said, “It’s because we are in a multicultural area, and we are a high-performing location. Our guest experience has been consistent, and we have a core team of knowledgeable employees, many of whom have been here for 10+ years.” The Manassas Red Lobster opened on March 1, 1993.

The remodel took place over nine weeks, during which the restaurant remained open to customers the entire time. It now has a totally new look with a contemporized, lighter and brighter aesthetic that conveys a refreshed seafood experience. Some of the changes include the new illuminated lobster tank positioned

30 |

November 2017 prince william living

in the lobby area as guests enter the restaurant. The redesigned bar area now has nautical-themed, high-top tables and bar stools, and the lounge-style area has community tables for larger parties and comfy leather seating.

Green said, “I’ve noticed that [the lounge] is the place where families naturally migrate when they dine with us.” It’s close to the large television screens; it will be a popular space as football season heats up. Guests will also notice the hand-painted feature boards, a life-sized ceramic tile wall mural of a whole lobster in the dining area and other eye-catching, dynamic artwork around the restaurant.

Dine Time Offers Online Reservations Another feature new to the restaurant is Dine Time, which will add some convenience to the dining experience by allowing

COAT CHECK (continued from page 12) How to Fit a Coat

The redesigned lobby shows off an illuminated lobster tank.

guests to make reservations online. This location is also outfitted with WIFI. And speaking of outfits—the staff is donning new uniforms as well.

Tasting Plates and Old Favorites Now you may be wondering what’s new from the kitchen.

You’ll be glad to know that the Cheddar Bay biscuits are still there, but new items have been added to the menu as well as weekly specials. The tour wouldn’t have been complete without sampling some of the new Tasting Plates: Yucatan Shrimp, dragon broccoli, Red Lobster Roll and shrimp pot stickers. All delicious additions!

Jewel Lewis of Manassas is a regular and said, “I love the new layout and the brighter colors, and their great and consistent service is the same.” Green and his staff are eagerly waiting to show both returning guests and first-time visitors their remodeled space.

The Manassas Red Lobster is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m., Monday through Thursday; and 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Call the restaurant at 703-335-2553 or visit redlobster.com/locations/list/va/ manassas/7505-broken-branch-lane.

Lisa Collins-Haynes (lhaynes@princewilliamliving.com) is married and the mother of one daughter. She is currently working as a freelance entertainment and travel writer, and you can follow her travels at octsblogger.wordpress.com.

When shopping for a winter coat, wear seasonally appropriate clothes underneath for a more accurate fit.

There are no shortcuts to finding the correct fit in a coat. You will probably have to try many coat styles and silhouettes before finding the correct fit. A cold-weather coat capsule will generally require more than one coat to accommodate the varied occasions, activities and outfits of winter. Here are some guidelines for finding the right fit by checking: n Length and proportion. Proportions ultimately determine a coat’s potential longevity. Check the coat’s length against skirt/dress hemlines, from minis to maxis and those hemlines that fall in-between.

Does a pant leg’s width and fullness fill the coat’s bottom opening or hemline? Generally, a knee-length coat pairs well with the majority of skirts, dresses and pants. Does the coat’s silhouette provide a vertical, unbroken line for your frame? n Shoulder line and sleeves. The coat’s shoulder seam is important in creating a good fit. The shoulder seam of the coat should meet the edge of your shoulders.

Are the sleeves of the coat covering the top of your hand or glove? n The collar. Does the neckline (collar and lapels) of the coat complement your facial shape? n The closure details. Can you comfortably button, zip or tie the coat front? Are there any X-shaped or stress lines forming on either side of the fastened closures?

If so, try the next size up. The coat should skim the contours of your frame. n Mobility. Reach, lift, stretch and move! Coats have to provide ease of movement for walking, driving, reaching and carrying. Can you raise your arms and cross them in front of you? If you feel tightness through the back and/or shoulders, try a larger size. Check overall proportion, length and drape, as well as the touch and feel of the fabric, for peak performance and ideal fit.

prince william living November 2017

| 31

your finances What Going Green Means for Your Wallet

By Bennett Whitlock, CRPC® Private Wealth Advisor

W

hat does it mean to “go green”? To many, it generally means making a commitment to be a good steward of the earth’s resources on a daily basis. Going green will likely have an impact on your lifestyle and your finances. Those who choose to be green should be ready to: Be savvy consumers. Spend more time researching your purchases—pay attention to how products are made, what they contain, and how they are transported and packaged, as well as what type of waste they generate. When you know what makes a product truly green, you can be more confident in your choices.

Pay more for goods and services. Green products are typically more expensive to make than mainstream merchandise because many green companies commit to using higher quality ingredients or sustainable production methods. In other cases, green products are made by small or local businesses, which may drive up the cost. Ask questions to understand the item’s price. Keep in mind that as more green products emerge and manufacturers figure out how to scale production without compromising green principles, prices are likely to fall.

Modify your household. Each room in your home provides an opportunity for you to conserve energy or water. Whether it’s a “smart” appliance in your kitchen, sun shades that work along with your thermostat in your living room or a low-flow showerhead in your master bath, you can incorporate your green lifestyle into your home. While green upgrades may reduce your carbon footprint or your utility bills over time, these improvements will likely cost you more up front. Coordinate your hardware store list with your budget.

Invest in the future. If preserving the future of the earth is one of your values, you may want to consider incorporating this value into your investing strategy. This approach, called sustainable investing, may offer a potential return on investment that may help you reach your goals while benefiting the causes important to you. Investors who engage in sustainable investing make investment decisions based on a mix of traditional performance factors and their own personal values. Talk to a financial professional who can help you navigate the pros and cons of altering your strategy.

Take charge of your financial future.

Since 1894 Ameriprise Financial has helped millions of Americans feel more confident about their financial future. As an Ameriprise financial advisor, I remain true to our vision of always putting clients first. Discover the one-to-one attention you deserve, call me today at 703.492.7732.

Bennett C. Whitlock III, CPRC® ® Private Wealth Advisor Whitlock Wealth Management A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. 12848 Harbor Dr, Ste 101 Lake Ridge, VA 22192 703.492.7732 Toll Free: 877-WHITLOCK bennett.c.whitlock@ampf.com www.whitlockwealth.com CA Insurance #OF32105

Whitlock Wealth Management whitlockwealth.com

Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2016 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. (8/16)

LIFE LESSON

88

everyone wins with

local banking You’re Invited | Bank Local

Realign spending habits. Green consciousness has a way of altering your approach to everyday tasks, which may impact your finances. As you make more green choices, watch your budget to make sure the two are in alignment.

Bennett Whitlock, CRPC , is a private wealth advisor and managing director with Whitlock Wealth Management, a franchise of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Learn more at WhitlockWealth.com or call 703-492-7732. ®

32 |

November 2017 prince william living

Gainesville Sudley Manor 14385 McGraws Corner Dr. 8400 Chatsworth Dr. Rt. 29, next to CVS

Manassas 8700 Centreville Rd.

Woodbridge

14229 Potomac Mills Rd.

Potomac Festival Shopping Ctr.

LIFELONG LEARNING (continued from page 21) constantly to make sure they respond to all students.

To get more Marines involved and aware of the program, the marketing group promotes the VEC through its Facebook page, signs and flyers posted around Quantico, and by word of mouth.

The VEC is added to check-in lists for people new to the base, which requires them to visit the office, speak to someone and receive a welcome packet. The more Marines who know about the VEC and what it has to offer, the better served they will be.

What surprised Torres the most when she first started her position at the VEC after working as a registrar for an art school? “I was surprised by how enthusiastic the students are and by how gracious they are [when receiving] guidance,” she said.

“They are excited and passionate,” she continued. “It’s exciting [for me] to see how excited others are to pursue an education.”

The Voluntary Education Center is located at 3088 Roan Street, Quantico. For more information, call 703-784-3340, e-mail quanticoedcenter@usmc-mccs.org, or visit facebook.com/ QuanticoEdCenter.

Jennifer Lazzo (jlazzo@princewilliamliving.com) is a freelance writer and editor, who earned a B.A. in technical journalism and political science from Colorado State University. She lives with her husband and twin daughters in Montclair.

2-for-1 Admission!

Skate rental not included. Not valid on Friday night. Cannot be combined coupon per customer.

Expires Nov. 30, 2017 Youth & Adult Hockey Figure Skating Lessons for All Ages Public Skating Parties/Meetings

Fundraisers Scout Badges Broomball Curling Pro Shop & Cafe

www.pwice.com (703) 730-8423

prince william living November 2017

| 33

november

calendar The Forgotten World War: Its Impact at Home

Wed. Nov. 1 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; continues through February 2018 Manassas Museum 9101 Prince William St., Manassas This exhibit will look at the homefront in PWC and Manassas during World War I. Themes will include music and propaganda, the impact of the Spanish Flu epidemic in the area, the growth of farms and local military bases and their impact on the county. A final section will list all the soldiers from the area who were killed in action.

Prince William Living Presents Breakfast with an Expert Thurs. Nov. 2 | 8 a.m.

PWAR 4545 Daisy Reid Ave., Suite 150, Woodbridge Join us for a cup of coffee, continental breakfast and information from an expert, who will give you actionable advice you can put to work immediately in your business. RSVP princewilliamliving.com/ breakfastwithanexpert.

Cuisine de Commerce Food Festival 2017

Thurs. Nov. 2 | 3 – 6 p.m.

Prince William Chamber of Commerce 9720 Capital Ct., Manassas This year we’re outside in the Chamber’s parking lot so that food trucks can participate. Still all-you-can-eat featuring sample sizes from the best of your Chamber’s caterers and restaurants.

Tickets: pwchamber.org.

Fall Gallery Walk

Fri. Nov. 3 | 6 – 9 p.m.

Historic Downtown Manassas Come out and enjoy this free biannual event. The merchants of Historic Downtown will be displaying artwork by local featured artists.

Manassas Veterans Day Parade

Sat. Nov. 4 | 11 a.m.

Historic Downtown Manassas The Manassas Veterans Day Parade pays tribute to veterans and active military for protecting our nation at home and overseas. It is the largest Veterans Day Parade in the metro area, and includes military and high school bands, pipe and drum corps teams, military units from the various Armed Services, military vehicles, and members from local veterans organizations.

Bridal Expo

Sat. Nov. 4 | 12 – 4 p.m.

Potomac Mills Mall 2700 Potomac Mills Circle, Woodbridge Meet with wedding vendors who will make your special day just as you dream.

Let them take some stress off your plate while you get questions answered and learn about new wedding trends. In the mall’s Grand Court/TJMaxx area.

The Wiz Sat. Nov. 4 | 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Sun. Nov. | 3 p.m.

Center for the Arts of Greater Manassas/ Prince William County at the Candy Factory The Wiz is a musical adaptation of “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” by L. Frank Baum. Join the Pied Piper Theatre’s actors for a romp through Oz, with an urban beat. Tickets: center-for-the-arts.org/ calendar/

Jazz 4 Justice™

Fri. Nov. 10 | 8 p.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas The Mason Jazz Ensemble, directed by Jim Carroll, joins The Prince William County Bar Foundation to present its annual benefit concert, Jazz 4 Justice.™ Proceeds from this performance support vital community efforts by the Prince William County Bar Foundation Inc. and the George Mason University Jazz Studies Department. Tickets: hyltoncenter.org.

World War I Monument Ceremony

Sat. Nov. 11 | 10 a.m.

Old Manassas Courthouse 9248 Lee Ave., Manassas Join the Manassas Museum and the Prince William County Division of Historic Preservation in remembering the area’s World War I fallen, and those who faced hardship on the homefront.

Festival of Food Trucks

Sat. Nov. 11 | 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Prince William County Fairgrounds 10624 Dumfries Rd., Manassas Enjoy cuisine from the DMV’s BEST food trucks, a holiday shopping market & more! Purchase your early general admission tickets for $5 or $10 at the event. All attendees who wish to partake in the food truck cuisine must have a wrist band. Children 12 and under are always free at our events. No refunds.

Celebrating Veterans and the Arts

Sat. Nov. 11 | 1 p.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas Join us for an interactive day of celebration and arts experiences for veterans, service members, their families, military caregivers and the community.

Free of charge to all.

Bristoe Station Veterans Day Commemorative Candlelight Tour

Sat. Nov. 11 | 6 – 8 p.m.

Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park Iron Unit Brigade Ave., Bristow During four years of war, hundreds of Civil War soldiers were buried in the area around Bristoe Station. Some died in battle; others succumbed to disease.

While some remains were removed after the war, many still reside in the area. This special candlelight tour of the battlefield will highlight some of the soldiers who died at Bristoe Station. $5 suggested donation. 703-366-3049.

Have an event? Visit princewilliamliving.com/events to submit details to our online calendar.

34 |

November 2017 prince william living

Prince William Living’s Lunch with the Publisher

Wed. Nov. 15 | 11:30 a.m.

Prince William Chamber of Commerce 9720 Capital Ct., #203, Manassas Are you an advertiser with Prince William Living or interested in becoming one?

Meet the people behind greater Prince William’s premiere lifestyle magazine, as you learn about: Getting your press releases published, tying into the power of our social media presence, creating visibility packages that increase your reach to targeted consumers, and focusing on your message. Lunch provided by Okra’s. RSVP at princewilliamliving. com/lunchwiththepublisher.

Café Pottery

Thurs. Nov. 16 | 6 – 8 p.m.

BadWolf Brewing Company 8420 Kao Circle, Manassas Drink. Paint. Socialize. Save your space at BadWolf Brewery to come out and paint on pottery you can use! Register on EventBrite.com by searching Cafe Pottery @ BadWolf Brewery. 21+ only; $20 cash at the door.

Game Technology Expo & Job Fair

Sat. Nov. 18 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Northern Virginia Community College 2645 College Dr., Woodbridge A dynamic day packed with information, workshops, and exhibits for the next generation of high school students, college students, and their parents.

Entry is free.

Prince William Turkey Trot

Thurs. Nov. 23 | 8:30 – 10 a.m.

Freedom Aquatics & Fitness Center 9100 Freedom Center Blvd., Manassas The Prince William Turkey Trot is a fun and festive celebration of Thanksgiving Day. Feel free to wear your best themed gear: pilgrim, Pocahontas, turkey, pie, Native American, colonial – you name it! This will be a festive affair with music, best costume awards, and our worldfamous finish line envelopes featuring the random Golden Ticket awards (just hope for a “Willy Wonka-like” golden ticket). Visit funrunracing.com for more information.

The Nutcracker Presented by Virginia National Ballet Fri. Nov. 24 | 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas Don’t miss this magical production with beautiful scenery, costumes, dancing, and choreography – the first Nutcracker of the season! Tickets: hyltoncenter.org

A Chanticleer Christmas

Sun. Nov. 26 | 2 p.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas Kick off the holiday season at the Hylton Center with a concert of a capella voices that includes classical music and popular holiday favorites. Chanticleer is renowned for the seamless blend of 12 extraordinary male voices, ranging from countertenor to bass, with their superior technique, sublime tone, and unparalleled musicality. Tickets: hyltoncenter.org.

Cockpit Point Tours

Sat. Nov. 18 | 10 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m.

Cockpit Point Civil War Park 17674 Main St., Dumfries Take a tour of Prince William County’s newest historic park, Cockpit Point Civil War Park. Reservations are required for the tours. The terrain is difficult and includes off trail-style hiking. For reservations call 703-792-4754. $20 per person.

All events listed on Prince William Living’s online and print calendars are subject to change. Check with the venue to verify dates, times and locations.

703-670-7884 “Leak Detection Specialist”

Roofing • Repairs • Vinyl Siding Seamless Gutter Systems • Gutter Guards Replacement Windows • Skylight • Attic Fan

Guaranteed Quality Work Since 1985 3 Top Rated by Washington Consumers’ Checkbook Licensed – Bonded – Insured E-mail: sales@FurrRoofing.com

Let Us Introduce Your Child to the World of the Arts

DANCE ART MUSIC

Ages 3 ½ to Adult

Ann Boyle Artistic Director

(703) 878-1000 www.danceetc.com prince william living November 2017

| 35

Commercial Photography Branding

| Web

mgcre8v.com 571-249-5566

703-330-8145 www.casacis.org

www.pwspca.org

36 |

November 2017 prince william living

www.actspwc.org 703-441-8606

subscribe

15

Order your subscription today to Prince William Living $ SUBSCRIBE ONLINE TODAY! magazine forwww.princewilliamliving.com/subscription only $15 per year!

12 issues Order online today at www.princewilliamliving.com/subscription or complete this form and mail it to the address below.

Your information: Name: ___________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________

Subscription rate: Subscription rate is $15 per year, (12 issues) continental U.S. only. Subscription will begin with the next issue after this form is received. Allow two weeks after receipt of form. All subscriptions must be prepaid. Include a check or money order for the total amount to:

State/Zip: _________________________________________

Prince William Living ATTN: Circulation Department 4491 Cheshire Station Plaza, PMB 55 Dale City, VA 22193

Country: _________________________________________

Prince William Living also accepts Visa and Mastercard*:

City: _____________________________________________

Phone: ___________________________________________

Name on Card: ____________________________________ Number: _________________________________________

Fax: _____________________________________________

Expiration Date: ___________________________________

Email:____________________________________________

Signature: _________________________________________ *When paying by credit card, please fax your order to (703) 563-9185.

Pick up a free copy of Prince William Living at one of the following fine locations: Chairman At-Large Appliance Connection Corey A. Stewart 13851 Telegraph Road, Suite 101, Woodbridge

prince william living November 2017

Prince William Parks and Recreation

Prince William Public Library System

| 37

Experience Assisted Living Like You’ve Never Seen Before!

SM

Care is at the Core of Tribute communities.

Imagine the peace of mind you’ll feel knowing your senior family member is receiving professional care in a community of such unbelievable beauty, luxury, and comfort.

Tribute residents live Connected, Active, and Purposeful lives. Throughout

the community they can socialize, be active, or pursue personal interests.

Tribute’s advanced Memory Care programming focuses on serving and connecting with seniors living with memory impairment.

Tour Tribute and experience Assisted Living Like You’ve Never Seen Before!SM

ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS 4151 Old Bridge Rd., Woodbridge, VA 22192 (571) 402-1870 TributeAtTheGlen.com Hello@TributeAtTheGlen.com