Prince William Living March 2026

Hope doesn’t take no for an answer.

At UVA Health, hope isn’t just holding your hand. We’re driven in an endless pursuit of what is possible. That’s why our experts are driven to help you thrive at every stage of your life. And if your needs become complex, UVA Health offers seamless access to the most advanced specialists, innovative treatments and clinical trials available. Learn more at uvahealth.com/driven.

Driven to bring hope to life.

prince william l iving

Rebecca Barnes

PRINCE WILLIAM LIVING PUBLISHER rbarnes@princewilliamliving.com

OPERATIONS COORDINATOR

David Lezcano, admin@princewilliamliving.com

ONLINE NEWS news@princewilliamliving.com

GIVE BACK PRINCE WILLIAM INITIATIVE info@givebackpw.org

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER

Diane Puigdomenech, dpuigdomenech@princewilliamliving.com

VISIBILITY PACKAGES sales@princewilliamliving.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS info@princewilliamliving.com

Carole Keily EDITOR editor@princewilliamliving.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Rebecca Barnes, Katherine Gotthardt, Caitlin Justesen, Erin Pittman, Jessica Schmitt, Bennett Whitlock

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Katherine Gotthardt

PHOTOGRAPHER

Mark Gilvey, Rob Jinks

GRAPHIC DESIGN AND PRODUCTION

Alison Dixon/ImagePrep Studio

Prince William Living, the premier 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 © Copyright 2026 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

9994 Sowder Village Square #816

Manassas, Va 20109

Phone: (703) 232-1758

Your $20.00 subscription goes to fund www.givebackpw.org

Social Media

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

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.

Get More Prince William Living

Prince William Living can be found on Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, YouTube 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 $20 (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.

from the Publisher

March always feels like a turning point. The days stretch a little longer. We start opening windows. We take stock of where we have been and where we are headed. At Prince William Living, March also brings one of the most meaningful moments of our year—the Influential Women Awards.

This issue is, at its heart, about recognizing women who show up. Not for applause. Not for titles. But because something in them says, this matters. These are women leading businesses, nonprofits, classrooms, kitchens, boardrooms, and families. Women who solve problems quietly, lift others intentionally, and leave their community better than they found it.

Each year, I am reminded that leadership does not have a single look or a single path. It shows up in healthcare offices, small businesses, volunteer fire departments, dining rooms, and living rooms across Prince William County. The Influential Women Awards exist to shine a light on that kind of leadership—and to say, clearly and publicly, that it counts.

Health and wellness naturally weave through this month’s stories, because strong communities depend on people who are healthy enough to care, to lead, and to keep going. You will find thoughtful coverage that speaks to caring for ourselves and our

spaces, including Five Simple Ways to Open Your Home After Winter, a Home & Hearth piece that feels especially timely as we transition seasons.

Our Local Flavor feature takes you inside Haymarket’s Red House Tavern, where exceptional fine dining meets thoughtful growth. It is a reminder that local businesses are living, evolving parts of our community—built by people who care deeply about quality, consistency, and connection.

And woven throughout this issue is something I believe deeply: visibility matters. When we tell these stories, when we recognize leadership, when we support local businesses and writers and organizations, we reinforce the kind of community we want to live in.

Thank you for reading. Thank you for nominating. Thank you for supporting the Influential Women Awards and the many stories that make Prince William County feel like home.

Here’s to strong women, healthy communities, and a season of growth.

Rebecca Barnes Publisher, Prince William Living Magazine

The 2026 Prince William Living Influential Women

By Rebecca Barnes, Publisher, Prince William Living | Photos by Rob Jinks

When Prince William Living launched its first Influential Women Awards twelve years ago, we quickly realized that this topic resonated deeply with our readers. Nominations poured in, and the issue announcing the inaugural winners became one of our most-read editions to date. Choosing just five women from so many inspiring submissions was no easy task then, and it remains just as challenging today.

Once again, the judges faced a difficult decision. Across Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park, women are giving their time, talent, and leadership to strengthen businesses, nonprofits, public institutions, and neighborhoods. Many are quietly doing the hard work that keeps our community moving forward. From this remarkable group, five women rose to the top.

Appearing in alphabetical order, the 2026 Prince William Living Influential Women are: Dr. Megan Franco, Damita Frye, Tarrazzia Martin, Dr. Rachel Payne, and Dr. Rebecca Sinclair.

Although each brings different strengths and professional backgrounds to the table, they share a common trait. Their leadership extends well beyond job descriptions and titles. Each has demonstrated a sustained commitment to service, advocacy, and community-building, while remaining quick to credit colleagues, volunteers, and partners who work alongside them.

We are honored to recognize their contributions and share a glimpse of the impact they are making across Greater Prince William.

DR. MEGAN

FRANCO: Strengthening

Food Security and Community Resilience

Dr. Megan Franco is being honored for her transformative leadership as Executive Director of Northern Virginia Food Rescue, an organization that has become a critical link between surplus food and families experiencing food insecurity across Prince William County and the greater Northern Virginia region.

Since becoming Executive Director in 2023, Dr. Franco has worked to streamline operations, expand donor and distribution partnerships, diversify funding sources, and build a strong internal team. Under her leadership, Northern Virginia Food Rescue has rescued tens of millions of pounds of food, providing millions of meals while also mitigating significant environmental impact by reducing food waste that would otherwise reach local landfills.

During a period when food insecurity increased, and pandemicera funding declined, Dr. Franco led aggressive cost-reduction strategies while securing new private donations, business partnerships, and grant-writing support, even contributing personal funds to ensure organizational stability. Because of those efforts, the organization not only avoided closure but is now positioned for long-term growth.

Beyond operations, Dr. Franco recognized that many organizations working on food access, nutrition, agriculture, and sustainability were operating in silos. In response, she founded the Greater Prince William Food Council, which now meets regularly to coordinate efforts, share resources, and strengthen regional food resiliency.

Those who work with Dr. Franco describe her leadership as thoughtful, collaborative, and deeply mission-driven. Her ability to align logistics, advocacy, and human connection has helped build a hunger-relief system that is both efficient and compassionate.

DAMITA FRYE: Leading With Service, Compassion, and Community Connection

Damita Frye is being honored for leadership that bridges international responsibility with deeply personal local service in Manassas and across Prince William County.

As owner of DJ Designs, Damita brings exceptional planning and coordination skills to some of the most complex events on the world stage. Her recent work includes coordination with the White House and U.S. Department of State for the United Nations General Assembly in 2024 and 2025, execution of international development forums, support for embassy evacuations, and planning for multinational diplomatic assemblies.

Yet her influence is equally strong at the neighborhood level. Damita serves as Chair of the Economic Development Committee for Historic Manassas Inc., helping guide initiatives that strengthen the city’s historic district. She also serves on the City of Manassas Social Services Advisory Board and participated in the 2025 Point-in-Time Homeless Count to identify and assist residents experiencing homelessness.

From 2017 to 2020, Damita volunteered at the Prince William County Adult Detention Center, providing encouragement and spiritual support to incarcerated women. She continues this work through her nonprofit, Hope and Grace Transitional Services, which provides clothing, essentials, and mentorship to women reentering the community. Her pop-up shops restore dignity while easing the transition from incarceration to independent living.

Those who know Damita describe her service as deeply relational. She reminds people in crisis that they are seen, valued, and capable of rebuilding. Her leadership is defined not only by professional excellence but by compassion that consistently shows up where help is most needed.

(continues on page 6)

(continued from page 5)

TARRAZZIA MARTIN: Building Civic Power, Unity, and Opportunity

Tarrazzia Martin is being recognized for her leadership in civic engagement, community organizing, and economic empowerment across Greater Prince William.

As Deputy State Director of Virginia LULAC, the state chapter of the nation’s oldest Latino civil rights organization, Tarrazzia connects local concerns to statewide advocacy efforts focused on education, workforce development, and political participation. Locally, she serves as Chair of the Prince William County Latino Caucus, where she has worked to increase voter registration and turnout among Latino residents, helping to translate population growth into meaningful civic participation.

DR. RACHEL PAYNE: Championing Inclusive Employment and Advocacy

Dr. Rachel Payne is being honored for her advocacy and leadership in expanding employment opportunities and community inclusion for people with disabilities.

As Vice President of Advocacy and Public Policy at Didlake, Dr. Payne shapes training, public policy, and employer engagement strategies that support inclusive hiring practices. Her career at Didlake began as a job coach supporting young adults with autism and progressed into executive leadership, grounding her policy work in firsthand experience.

In 2024, she organized the first Latino Caucus participation in the Manassas Holiday Parade, increasing cultural visibility during one of the region’s most widely attended events. She also hosted the Prince William Latino Conversation, securing and sharing official data showing more than 48,000 registered Latino voters in the county, helping residents recognize their collective voice.

Tarrazzia also founded the Prince William County Two Cities Group, creating space for Black and Brown communities to collaborate, address service gaps, and work toward shared solutions. Through these efforts, she has built trust across diverse groups while promoting mutual understanding and coordinated action.

As founder and owner of USNIA INC, a private security agency operating across the DC metro region, Tarrazzia also supports workforce development through job creation and professional mentorship, helping employees build stronger and more stable careers.

Her leadership reflects a consistent focus on inclusion, partnership, and empowerment, ensuring that voices long underrepresented are actively shaping the future of the region.

Dr. Payne oversees the Autism Center of Excellence, where new tools and resource guides provide customized support for individuals and families. She has also expanded autism awareness and inclusion training for employers, cultural institutions, and community partners.

Beyond Didlake, Dr. Payne serves as Vice Chair of the Autism Society of Northern Virginia, sits on the board of Virginia Career Works Northern Region, and is a founding member of the Alliance for Expanding America’s Workforce. Through these roles, she collaborates with businesses, nonprofits, and policymakers to build sustainable employment pipelines.

She actively mentors self-advocates, preparing them to participate in policy discussions and share lived experiences in legislative settings. Her leadership ensures that people with disabilities are represented in decisions that directly affect their futures.

Dr. Payne’s work strengthens both individual opportunity and regional workforce systems, advancing equity while building practical solutions that benefit employers and communities alike.

DR. REBECCA SINCLAIR: Expanding Access to Care for the Underserved

For more than two decades, Dr. Rebecca O. Sinclair has been a steady and compassionate force in Greater Prince William, working to ensure that healthcare reaches those who might otherwise go without.

A fully licensed internal medicine physician, Dr. Sinclair currently serves as Medical Director of StreetLight Community Outreach Ministries, where she provides care to underserved adults, including individuals experiencing homelessness and low-income residents. Through StreetLight, she supports programs offering supportive housing, hypothermia shelter, prevention funding, and grocery distribution, addressing both medical needs and the social factors that affect health outcomes.

Previously, Dr. Sinclair served as Medical Director of the Prince William Area Free Clinic, helping design sustainable healthcare infrastructure, securing more than $1.35 million in grant funding, and strengthening services across several clinics serving Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park. She also played a key role in creating the Primary Health Care Van Project, bringing mobile medical services directly to schools and shelters.

As a Program Specialist for the Commonwealth of Virginia, Dr. Sinclair led statewide efforts to increase COVID-19 vaccination rates among underserved populations, coordinating mobile clinics and partnerships during a critical public health period.

Dr. Sinclair continues to serve on multiple community health committees, working to strengthen coordination among hospitals, nonprofits, faith organizations, and public agencies. Colleagues describe her service as both professional and deeply personal, marked by attention to individual needs and long-term systems improvement.

Her legacy reflects a belief that quality healthcare is a human right and that community health requires collaboration, persistence, and compassion.

Celebrating Leadership That Strengthens Our Community

Each of these women reflects a different path to leadership, yet all share a commitment to lifting others, strengthening systems, and building partnerships that improve daily life across Greater Prince William.

Their stories remind us that influence is not defined by visibility alone, but by sustained effort, service, and the willingness to act when gaps appear. On behalf of the team at Prince William Living, I congratulate our 2026 Influential Women and thank them for the leadership they bring to our region every day.

We look forward to celebrating these remarkable women, along with our nominees and community partners, at the 2026 Influential Women Awards Celebration at Sweeney Barn in Manassas.

Congratulations to our Influential Women, and thank you for making Greater Prince William a stronger, more compassionate, and more connected community.

And, stay tuned for an announcement following the Influential Women Awards Event about an expansion to this program starting next year!

Congratulations to all our 2026 Influential Women Nominees!

Talya Conroy

Jennifer Entremont

Dr. Megan Franco

Damita Frye

Kimberly Ginyard

Liletta Harlem

Robyn Hartfield

Jalissa Henderson

Jean Humbrecht

Jennifer Katac

Tarrazzia Martin

Jo McCabe

Nikki Moore

Dr. Rachel Payne

Dr. Althea Payne-Butler

Alice Pires

Colleen Quintana

Nancy Ramirez

Enica Russell

Kathy Schumer

Rebecca Sinclair, MD

Michelle Strider

Claire Szanyi

Tiffany Turley

Kristen West

Rev. Dr. Chrystal Woodard

Equal Opportunity is the Law!

The primary job of the Prince William County Human Rights Office is the resolution of charges brought to the commission’s attention by residents who feel their rights were violated.

• Employment

• Housing

• Public Accomodation

Our office investigates cases in the following areas: On the basis of your: How do I file a charge?

• Credit • Education

• Race

• Sex

• Age

• Sexual Orientation

• Religion

• Familial Status

• Marital Status

• Color • National Origin

• Military Status

• Gender Identity

• Disability

• Source of Income

Contact the Human Rights Commission Office. Talk with a staff member about your concerns. They can determine if the office covers the complaint.

If the office covers the complaint:

» Complete an intake form

» Meet with an investigator to discuss the complaint

» Bring supporting documents

» Be prepared to identify witness by name and provide telephone numbers or addresses

» Sign a notarized charge of discrimination

¡La igualdad de oportunidades es la ley!

El trabajo principal de la Oficina de la Comisión de Derechos Humanos es la resolución de los cargos presentados ante la comisión por los residentes que sienten que sus derechos fueron violados.

Nuestra oficina investiga casos en las siguientes áreas:

• Empleo

• Vivienda

• Acomodo público

• Raza

• Sexo

• Edad

• Crédito

• Educación

En base a su:

• Color

• Origen nacional

• Estado como veterano

• Orientación sexual

• Religión

• Estado familiar

• Estado civil

• Identidad de género

• Discapacidad

• Fuente de ingresos

¿Cómo presento un cargo?

Comuníquese con la Oficina de Derechos Humanos. Hable con un miembro del personal acerca de sus inquietudes. Ellos pueden determinar si la oficina cubre la queja.

Si la oficina cubre la queja:

» Complete un formulario de aplicación

» Reúnase con un investigador para discutir la queja

» Llevar documentos de respaldo

» Esté preparado para identificar a los testigos por su nombre y proveer números de teléfono o direcciones

» Firmará un cargo notariado de discriminación

giving back

From Crisis to Confidence:

How a Haymarket Nonprofit Helps Mothers Build Stable Futures

By Erin Pittman

For pregnant women facing homelessness, uncertainty can feel relentless. Without stable housing, reliable income, or consistent support, preparing for childbirth — and parenthood — becomes an uphill climb. In Prince William, a Haymarket-based nonprofit has spent years addressing that reality with a model built not on quick fixes, but on time, trust, and transformation.

Formerly known as Carried to Full Term, the Virginia Women & Family Support Center provides long-term housing, mentorship, and comprehensive support services to pregnant women and mothers experiencing homelessness. The organization allows families to remain in its residential program for up to two years — a critical distinction in a system where most emergency housing options last only weeks or months.

Frances Robin, Director

A Clear Purpose

Virginia Women and Family Support Center provides stable housing in their Haymarket and Gainesville homes for up to two years, along with comprehensive wraparound support. According to Frances Robin, the Center's Executive Director, research has proven that 18 to 24 months in a program makes a large difference in improving outcomes and building routines.

To support this transformation, VAWFSC offers classes each week at their homes to help mothers become self-sufficient. Their services include maternal health coordination, educational opportunities such as GED classes and vocational training, mental health services including therapy and trauma counseling, and life skills training in parenting and job readiness. With personalized case management and childcare support, the Center helps women not just survive, but thrive.

The organization opened Manassas House last year, which provides up to another two years for mothers to establish a good foundation.

The center’s mission is rooted in a simple but powerful belief: stable housing is the foundation for healthy mothers, healthy

babies, and long-term family success. By addressing housing insecurity during pregnancy and the early years of parenting, the organization helps mothers avoid crisis-driven decisions and focus instead on building sustainable futures.

Extensive Support Services

Residents receive far more than a safe place to sleep. The program pairs housing with wraparound services designed to promote independence, including parenting education, job training, financial management classes, counseling, transportation support, and individualized case management. Each woman works alongside staff to set personal and professional goals, with progress reviewed regularly.

A cornerstone of the organization’s work is its Cycle Breakers program, which focuses on interrupting generational cycles of homelessness and poverty. Through structured mentorship and skill-building, women gain the confidence and tools needed to support their families past the end of the program. Many participants leave with stable employment, savings, and a clear plan for permanent housing.

The nonprofit also engages the broader community through StrongHer Generation, its mission-driven thrift store. Operated as both a fundraising initiative and a volunteer hub, the store provides affordable goods while helping sustain the organization’s programs. Community volunteers, donors, and partners all play a vital role in ensuring the center’s success.

Maternal Health Workshop

As the organization has grown, so has its scope. The transition from Carried to Full Term to the Virginia Women & Family Support Center reflects an expanded, family-centered approach that supports mothers well beyond childbirth while honoring the organization’s original focus on pregnancy and maternal care.

That evolution is reflected in one of the organization’s most significant initiatives this year: the Maternal Health Workshop, titled What We’ve Seen. The workshop brings together healthcare professionals, social service providers, advocates, students, and community members to explore how housing stability directly affects maternal and infant health outcomes.

The conference will be held on Saturday, March 21, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Verizon Auditorium on the Manassas campus of George Mason University. To register, visit vawfsc.org/mhw.

Rather than a traditional conference, What We’ve Seen centers on lived experience. Drawing from years of data and firsthand stories, the workshop highlights what staff and partners have observed while supporting pregnant women and mothers through housing instability. Sessions will address traumainformed care, maternal mental health, policy barriers, and the critical intersection of healthcare and housing.

Maternal health professionals, counselors, and advocates who work directly with families navigating crisis will lead and

facilitate sessions. Breakout sessions and “Ask the Experts” panels are designed to encourage dialogue and collaboration, reinforcing the idea that meaningful solutions require coordinated community effort.

Looking Ahead

“We’re becoming a one-stop shop for women in our community—housing hundreds more women and their children while offering sonograms, mammograms, maternal health services, dental care, meals, and more,” said Frances Robin. “We are here to support women and their families in Virginia, and we won’t stop until all women are connected to the resources and support they need.”

Even as its programs expand, the Virginia Women & Family Support Center remains deeply connected to Prince William and its original purpose. Its work reflects a growing understanding that supporting mothers during pregnancy and early parenting years has ripple effects — strengthening families, improving health outcomes, and reducing long-term reliance on emergency services.

For the women who walk through its doors, the center offers more than assistance. It offers time to breathe, space to grow, and the confidence to imagine a stable future for themselves and their children.

Erin Pittman is a project manager and freelance writer. She can be reached at epittman@princewilliamliving.com.

your finances

Protecting Your Financial Stability After a Divorce

By Bennett C. Whitlock III Private Wealth Advisor

Like many aspects of divorce, managing your finances after splitting up with your spouse can feel complicated and overwhelming. This is true whether the separation is amicable or acrimonious. Because every divorce is different, it’s wise to consult with your attorney and financial advisor for guidance, but here is a basic primer to help you navigate your finances independently from your ex-spouse.

Adjust your budget to match your current lifestyle. Start by calculating your new monthly income, including spousal or child support if applicable, and estimate what you expect to earn over the next year. If you are a stay-at-home parent or spouse, you may decide to re-enter the workforce to bolster your income. Or the time may be right to switch careers or seek a side hustle.

Next, look at your spending to see if you need to adjust your patterns. Whether you’ve decided to remain in your home or seek new living arrangements, crunch the numbers to see how much house you can realistically afford. Also, evaluate your lifestyle spending, including entertainment, dining out, and vacations, to see if it’s necessary to trim your expenses. If possible, avoid making any major purchases until you feel comfortable with your updated budget.

Consider your children’s future. If you have children, they will understandably take center stage in your planning. It’s important to start thinking about how you’ll handle future financial milestones. Milestones may include paying for private grade school, college tuition, the down payment on a home, or a wedding. If you’d like to help your children with such expenses, consider these questions: Will you receive financial support from your former spouse? Do you expect your kids to contribute? As each event approaches, be up front with your kids about what you can afford so they can set realistic expectations.

Prioritize saving for retirement. No matter how close – or far – you are to retirement, make it a priority to update your retirement goals and continue building your nest egg. You are responsible for your own savings. In fact, the biggest challenge most Americans face financially is having enough money to cover what could be several decades of expenses in retirement. While retirement saving can feel overwhelming as you balance competing financial priorities, having a plan can help you feel more in control.

Ensure you’re protected. An important step following divorce is to maintain, replace, or establish insurance that will help secure your financial future. All forms of insurance should be

reviewed and considered, and your beneficiaries should be updated if needed. Make sure you understand the specific benefits that you and your former spouse are entitled to through your employers, as well as applicable life, health, and disability insurance policies. If you have children, whose health insurance plan will be used to cover them? Work quickly to establish an insurance plan to avoid the financial risk of being uninsured.

Consider the tax implications of your new marital status. Review your situation with a tax professional to see if you need to revise your tax strategy. Divorce can affect your tax situation in several ways. Impacts may include entering a different income tax bracket, providing or receiving child or spousal support, and changes to your investment strategy and your process for handling future tax returns.

Dream and plan for the future. Once you have a handle on your new day-to-day finances and retirement goals, allow yourself to dream and plan for other milestones that are important to you. Do you wish to visit every continent? Pay off your mortgage before retirement? Open a small business? Whatever your dreams, determine the cost of each one so you know how much you’ll need to save. Save what you can each month, and keep in mind that even small amounts will add up over time. If you’re tempted to spend the money elsewhere, consider establishing a separate savings account.

Don’t go it alone. Professional guidance from an attorney, tax professional, estate planner, and financial advisor can help you make empowered choices that match your new priorities. Financial advisors like myself routinely advise clients on how to navigate the complex decisions that arise during a divorce and offer strategies designed to help you meet new financial goals.

Bennett C. Whitlock III, CRPC®, is a Private Wealth Advisor and CEO with Whitlock Wealth, a private wealth advisory practice with Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. He specializes in fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 30 years. To contact him visit whitlockwealth.com, call 877-WHITLOCK or email whitlockwealth@ampf.com. Offices are located at 12848 Harbor Dr, Ste 101, Lake Ridge, VA 22192 and in Downtown Historic Manassas at 9073 Center Street, Manassas VA 20110.

© 2026 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

health & wellness

Know Your Risk: Colon Cancer Screening & Prevention

Contributed by UVA Health

Colorectal cancer is increasing at an alarming rate, particularly among younger adults. It is now the leading cause of cancer death in men under age 49 and is projected to become the top cause of cancer-related deaths for both men and women by 2030. While rates have been increasing among patients under 50, rates in older age groups are decreasing.

Last year, there were 153,000 new cases of colon cancer in the United States; 3,600 in Virginia. Colon cancer is the third most common cancer among men and women, behind prostate cancer and lung cancer in men and breast cancer and lung cancer in women.

While researchers are still working to understand why rates are rising, experts believe a combination of lifestyle factors may be at play. Those include obesity, especially during childhood and young adulthood; nicotine use, diets high in red meat; certain micronutrient deficiencies, and low levels of physical activity.

The good news? Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when it’s caught early through routine screening.

Who Should Be Screened?

If you are at average risk, colon cancer screening should begin at age 45, according to UVA Health colorectal surgeon Michael D. Watson, MD.

“People who are at higher risk may need to start screening earlier,” Watson says. Higher risk includes those with a family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, certain genetic syndromes, or a history of polyps found during a prior colonoscopy.

Your physician can help determine your individual risk and whether earlier screening or genetic counseling may be appropriate. A good start is to obtain a thorough history of colon cancer in your family. This includes parents and siblings, as well as grandparents, aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

Screening Options: What’s Right for You?

There are several effective screening options available. The best test is the one you’re most likely to complete — and repeat at the recommended interval.

“It’s heartbreaking when young people develop colorectal cancer before the typical screening age,” Watson says. “But what’s equally concerning is when people in their 60s are diagnosed simply because they never got screened. Our goal is to make sure everyone who needs screening gets it.”

Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. During the procedure, a physician examines the entire colon and rectum using a flexible camera while the patient is under anesthesia.

In addition to detecting cancer, colonoscopy allows doctors to remove precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer. For people at higher risk, colonoscopy is the recommended screening test.

At-Home Stool Tests

For individuals at average risk, at-home stool tests can be a convenient option:

n Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): Checks for hidden blood in the stool and is done annually.

n Stool DNA Test: Detects blood and DNA changes associated with cancer and is done every three years.

“These tests can be a good option for younger, healthy adults,” Watson notes. However, false positives can occur, and any abnormal result requires a follow-up colonoscopy.

Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

This test examines only the lower portion of the colon and is typically performed every five years, often combined with annual stool testing.

CT Colonography

Also known as a “virtual colonoscopy,” this noninvasive imaging test uses CT scans to evaluate the colon. It’s typically reserved for patients who cannot undergo a traditional colonoscopy.

Lowering Your Risk

While no method can completely prevent colon cancer, healthy lifestyle choices can significantly reduce your risk:

n Maintain a healthy weight

n Avoid smoking

n Eat a diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables

n Limit processed and red meats

n Get at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week

Know the Warning Signs

Talk with your doctor if you notice:

n Blood in your stool

n Changes in bowel habits

n Persistent abdominal or back pain

n Unexplained weight loss

“Most rectal bleeding turns out to be something benign, like hemorrhoids,” Watson says. “But blood in the stool is never normal, and it’s important to have it evaluated.”

Make an Appointment

The specialists at UVA Health Colorectal Surgery Manassas and UVA Health Colorectal Surgery Haymarket provide comprehensive colon cancer screening and advanced treatment options.

To schedule an appointment, call 571.833.7951.

Early screening saves lives — and taking that first step could make all the difference.

family fun

Beat Winter Boredom With These Kid-Approved Apps

By Erin Pittman

As parents, we typically spend a high percentage of our time trying to keep kids off of screens, but let’s face it. It’s pretty appealing to burrow under a blanket on the couch and settle into some swiping. Instead of fighting to keep kids screen-free, try some fun time with apps that also teach…in sneaky ways. .

These kid-approved apps offer fun gameplay for each age group while teaching kids about the world around them. All are available on both iOS and Android devices.

1. Grade Schoolers (Ages 6–10): Animal Jam Classic

Imagine a digital wilderness where kids explore, play games, and discover the animal kingdom—all while learning real zoology facts. That’s the magic of Animal Jam Classic, a wildly popular online world created in collaboration with National Geographic. It features minigames, puzzles, social hangouts, and education about animals and ecosystems woven into the fun.

Why kids love it: Cute creatures, quests, and virtual parties keep them coming back for more.

Why parents love it: Kids absorb real animal facts and ecology while they play.

2. Middle Schoolers (Ages 11–13):

Seek by iNaturalist

This one gets tweens off the screens and out into the world around them. Seek by iNaturalist is like a treasure hunt in your own backyard: snap plants, bugs, or birds with your camera, and the app instantly identifies them. Kids earn digital badges for discoveries and learn the names and roles of local flora and fauna—all without needing a login.

Why it’s fun: It’s a real-world scavenger hunt that makes chilly walks feel adventurous.

Bonus learning: Builds curiosity about nature, species, and ecosystems.

3. High Schoolers (Ages

14–18): Sporcle (Trivia & World Games)

For teens who crave challenge and variety, Sporcle is an addictive trivia app with world geography, flags, capitals, cultures, and quirky facts across thousands of categories. Fans often race to beat their own times or compete with friends, gathering insightful bits of knowledge along the way.

Why teens dig it: Quick, smart bursts of fun that feel like games—not chores.

Learning payoff: Geography, history, pop culture, and critical thinking all wrapped in fast trivia.

4. For the Whole Family: iNaturalist

Want a collective exploration mission? iNaturalist turns families into scientists. Together, you can log discoveries of plants, insects, and wildlife, contributing to real global science projects. Every season offers new finds, and the app’s community helps identify mysterious discoveries you make—turning a winter hike into a fascinating quest.

Why it’s great together: Shared goals, storytelling about nature, and wins that feel like family achievements.

Learning payoff: Ecology, biology, and global biodiversity.

5. Parent + Child Duo App: Greenlight (Kid Money Games)

If your goal is to have fun with your kids and help them build real-world smarts, pairing up on Greenlight’s kid financial games is a winner. While the app is known for its real family banking features, it also includes fun interactive economics lessons that teach saving, budgeting, and smart spending through games and decision-making scenarios. (Financial literacy apps like this are trending as powerful tools for kids’ money understanding.)

Why it’s perfect for a parent/child duet: You and your child can tackle savings goals and mini-money games side by side, and open the door to meaningful conversations about real-world financial know-how.

Learning payoff: Money management, planning, and budgeting—skills for life.

This winter, trade brain rot for brain spark without sacrificing fun. These five apps—whether you’re tracking backyard critters, racing through quiz trivia, exploring virtual jungles, or making cents out of money together— will turn cabin fever into curiosity and fun.

Erin Pittman has been a writer for more than 15 years. She can be reached at epittman@princewilliamliving.com.

local flavor

Red House Tavern Expects Exciting Growth While Continuing Exceptional Fine Dining

By Jessica Schmitt | Photography by Mark Gilvey

Red House Tavern in Haymarket has made a name for itself over the last several years as a great fine dining spot encompassed in Virginia tradition. Rooted in history and community, Red House Tavern has offered an experience that goes beyond just food. Now, the restaurant is looking forward to some big, exciting changes that are projected to take the establishment to new levels of success.

Beginnings and Mission

Red House Tavern opened in conjunction with Crossroads Café and The Hilton Garden Inn on March 18, 2022, under management by Purpose Lodging, and as of August 2024 has been managed by Valor Hospitality. It sits on the location of the original tavern that was there 200 years ago, acting as a historical and cultural landmark. In 2022, the restaurant won Hilton Development of the Year.

Red House Tavern’s mission is clear: to offer relaxed fine dining with top-of-the-line quality. The people on the team are committed to this mission, dedicating every day to providing unmatched hospitality and comfort. They believe their connection with customers is the most important part of their job.

The Red House Tavern Experience

Red House Tavern serves classic Virginian food with an international twist. They take traditional rustic dishes and elevate

them, adding inspiration from global cuisines. For example, the glaze for the pork belly is made from fermented Fresno, and they corn their beef and make their own kraut for the Reuben. Seared raw tuna is flavored with lemon, mint, Calabrian chili, and puffed (popcorned) rice for the crunch. It’s a dish that fosters conversation, as noted by Tim Kube, General Manager of the Hilton Garden Inn by Hilton in Haymarket. He says, “What is good food without good conversation?”

In addition to excellent food, Red House Tavern offers an inviting atmosphere and top-tier service. For lunch and brunch,

the restaurant can be described as casual, inviting, and bright, offering unique takes on comfort food and a great place for networking and socializing. For dinner, the mood changes to elevated, personal, and ambient, with refined dishes and a setting perfect for date night or celebrations. Service is an essential part of the equation. The people at Red House Tavern focus on excellence from the minute customers walk in the door through their entire meal to the time they leave.

Red House Tavern and the Community

Red House Tavern keeps community at the center of its operations. “Our community is at the heart of everything we do,” says Kube. Examples of this are clear in the restaurant’s everyday operations. They support local vendors and artisans by purchasing food from local farms and drinks from local vineyards and breweries, as well as selling items from local artisans in their hotel shop. Additionally, they give back to the local schools, police department and community at large through donations, auction items and contributions.

The restaurant can also thank the community for much of its success. The community supported them from the start, increasing their customer reach to places like Shenandoah, Washington D.C., and even nationally and internationally. They have become a tradition of the people who were with them from the beginning, and thus their roots in community run deep.

Big Upcoming Changes

Red House Tavern is undergoing some big changes that they are describing as their “most exciting period of transition to date,” according to Kube. In November 2025, Sous Chef Chris Saunders was promoted to Executive Chef. Chef Saunders has

been an integral part of the Red House Tavern story even before the restaurant was opened. He has been a linchpin to the evolution of the culinary vision and operational excellence. They project 2026 to be a year of growth, including more variety, more tradition, more classic Virginian flair and an introduction to Red House Tavern Catering, where the focus is a more elevated in-house banquet and catering experience.

So far, Red House Tavern has attributed its growth to their focus on discovering talent, dedication to listening to those involved, hospitality, connections and ambitious aims. All of this, paired with a fresh motivation among exciting changes, is expected to uplevel the restaurant in exhilarating ways. They are looking forward to reaching more people and getting to show their customers the capabilities and values of the team.

Ways to Get Involved and Calls to Action

Red House Tavern encourages the community to watch and follow along as their changes take shape. They are excited and confident that you will be pleasantly surprised. For more information, visit their website redhousehaymarket.com/ or stop by in person. They are located at 15001 Washington Street, Haymarket. They can also be reached via phone at (571) 486-5570. See for yourself what the Red House Tavern dining experience is all about!

Jessica Schmitt is a Contributing Writer for Prince William Living.

on a high note

A Tradition of Inspiration and Inclusivity: Voices United

By Katherine Mercurio Gotthardt

It’s an annual gathering that transforms Prince William into a vibrant hub of inspiring music, camaraderie, and artistic growth, welcoming participants from high schoolers to retirees to join a festival choir. Welcome to Voices United, a vibrant annual celebration of sacred music, drawing together singers from across the region — regardless of background or experience, no audition required. Spearheaded by Becky Verner, Artistic Director of the Manassas Chorale, this mass choir event is a tradition the region looks forward to.

A“Voices United began as an opportunity for local community and church choir singers to work with a nationally known composer and perform in a mass choir,” said Jennifer Blanchard, Executive Director of the Manassas Chorale. “Since 1999, it has been an annual event, except for the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021.”

Now in its 26th year, the event continues to foster community, artistry, and inspiration for all participants.

The Voices United Festival Choir is a tapestry of voices: members of the Manassas Chorale, local community singers, and church choir members—many of whom have only sung in small groups or venues before. This unique blend of experience levels is part of what makes the event so special, according to Blanchard.

“There is no audition to participate. Singers are of all levels of experience,” said Blanchard. This spirit of inclusivity is not just a slogan but a lived reality: anyone with a love for music is welcome.

Preparation for the festival is both accessible and flexible. To be eligible to participate in the workshop and concert, registered singers are required to attend at least three out of seven preliminary rehearsals — though more are encouraged — which are all held in Weston Hall at Manassas Baptist Church (8800 Sudley Road, Manassas).

These rehearsals lay the groundwork for a two-day intensive workshop led by a guest clinician and conductor, an experience that Blanchard describes as “honing musical technique and providing backstory to the songs chosen, as many are composed by the guest clinicians themselves.” The guest clinician is a nationally recognized composer and conductor. Past clinicians have included Joseph Martin, Rollo Dilworth, Pearl Shangkuan, and Anton Armstrong.

This year, Joel Raney takes the helm, leading the workshops and taking part in the culminating performance. Raney’s career has been shaped by a lifetime of musical experiences, from his Alabama church roots to earning a master’s in piano

performance at The Juilliard School. His compositions span choral, instrumental, and solo works, with hundreds of titles in print and a reputation as a sought-after clinician and performer. Raney’s ability to weave together gospel, Broadway, jazz, and sacred traditions promises an enriching experience for all involved. His current role as one of the leading sacred music composers in the country is the culmination of all his experiences.

Workshops are typically held at Grace United Methodist Church (9750 Wellington Road, Manassas) and, like rehearsals, are designed to be supportive and inclusive. Singers are advised to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, bring music, a pencil, and a water bottle. Snacks are provided, and care is taken for those with sensitivities (for example, participants are asked to refrain from wearing perfumes or scented lotions,s which may trigger allergies).

“In 2025, we had 115 singers representing nearly 40 churches and choral groups. It was exciting to see such a large group of singers coming together to share their talents and sing sacred music under a wonderful, nationally known director,” said Becky Verner.“I prepare the singers with seven rehearsals before the clinician comes, but I'm always thrilled to hear the final product and what it says to our community about being ‘united through music!’”

Singer Susie Theobald said Voices United is a wonderful opportunity for community members who might not be able to commit to the year's schedule of the Manassas Chorale.

“The rehearsal requirement is low, aside from the weekend workshop before the concert, which does take a chunk of time, but the back-to-back hours of training and rehearsal during that workshop are so worth it,” she shared. “As a stay-at-home mom and trained musician, I appreciate this yearly, low-commitment opportunity to continue to learn different vocal and musical techniques from the clinicians who are carefully chosen by our director. If anyone is on the fence, wondering if you should commit to Voices United, I say do it. You truly won't regret it.”

From rehearsals to workshops to performances, the legacy of Voices United is rich with memorable moments. Blanchard recalled the 2025 festival, when Joseph Martin was commissioned to write a new song for the Manassas Chorale’s 30th anniversary.

“Performing our own song ‘And So We Sing!’ on our own stage with the composer conducting was a special memory for many,” she reflected.

Blanchard added that for many participants, Voices United becomes more than a one-time experience.

“Many singers, after this mass choir experience, express interest in joining the Manassas Chorale on a permanent basis,” she said. The event serves as a welcoming introduction to the group and a chance to explore choral singing without a long-term commitment.

Sally Ramsey, a member of Manassas Baptist Church Sanctuary Choir, has participated in the Voices United workshops and concerts for more than 12 years. “It’s always a special opportunity to sing with so many talented musicians and inspiring, gifted clinicians,” she said. “I especially like seeing the many friends I’ve made over the years and making new ones who love to sing and learn.”

Ramsey also said she appreciated that the Voice United choir represents singers from multiple church choirs or other singing groups in and around the area and that the renowned guest clinicians never fail to inspire, teach, and bring out the best in singers. According to Ramsey, “It’s always a thrill to be part of the Manassas Chorale’s spring concert and to share what is always challenging and beautiful music with the audience. It’s certainly a musical experience not to be missed.”

2026 Voices United Concert

This year, the Voices United Concert will take place on Saturday, March 21, at 7:30 p.m. at the Hylton Performing Arts Center, 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas. The center, housed on the George Mason University Manassas campus, is a professional-level venue that has become a favorite among both performers and audiences.

“The Hylton Performing Arts Center is a magnificent venue that enhances the mass choir experience,” Blanchard said.

The evening will begin with a performance by the Manassas Chorale, followed by the Voices United Festival Choir. The two ensembles will then come together for a pair of combined pieces under the baton of the festival’s guest clinician. An orchestra of 20 instrumentalists, selected by Artistic Director Becky Verner, will accompany both choirs, many of whom are seasoned professionals and long-time collaborators.

For those wondering about concert attire, Manassas Chorale members don their usual concert dress, while workshop participants are asked to follow a formal black-and-white dress code, ensuring a cohesive and elegant appearance on stage.

The concert is open to the public. Tickets are available via the Hylton Box Office or hyltoncenter.org.

As Voices United enters its 26th year, its mission remains the same: to unite voices, foster community, and celebrate the power of music. This year's concert will be held on Saturday, March 21 at 7:30 p.m. at the Hylton Performing Arts Center.

For more information about the Manassas Chorale and Voices United, including registration details and upcoming events, visit manassaschorale.org or manassaschorale.org/voices-united.

Katherine Mercurio Gotthardt has written for Prince William Living for more than 10 years. An award-winning author and poet, she can be reached through her website, KatherineGotthardt.com.

home & hearth

Five Simple Ways to Open Your Home After Winter

By Caitlin Justesen, Radcliffe House Designs

As a local NOVA interior designer, I spend much of the year helping homeowners refresh their spaces in ways that feel thoughtful, lived-in, and sustainable. March is one of my favorite months to do just that—not by starting over, but by making small shifts that help a home breathe again. March sits quietly between seasons—no longer winter, not yet spring. It’s the moment when homes benefit most from gentle changes that invite light, air, and ease back inside.

1. Let Fresh Air Set the Tone

On the first mild days, open your windows—even for just a few minutes. Circulating fresh air clears out winter’s heaviness and immediately changes how a space feels. Think of it as a seasonal reset for your home.

2. Lighten the Layers You Live With

Winter calls for weight; March invites restraint. Swap heavy throws for lighter ones, change pillow covers, or rotate bedding to fresher fabrics. In entryways, replacing thick winter mats with something simpler can subtly signal the shift in season.

3. Edit Before You Add

Before bringing in spring décor, take time to remove what’s no longer serving you. Winter tends to collect clutter on countertops, tables, and shelves. Clearing just a few key surfaces allows rooms to breathe—and often makes them feel larger and calmer.

4. Follow the Light

As daylight stretches longer, notice how your home naturally brightens throughout the day. Clean lampshades and bulbs, and experiment with turning lights off earlier in the evening. Letting natural light guide your routines helps your home transition with the season.

5. Leave Room for What’s Coming

March isn’t about finishing—it’s about preparing. Resist the urge to rush into full spring decorating. Leaving visual and physical space allows your home to welcome the season gradually, without overwhelm.

Opening your home after winter doesn’t require dramatic change. With a few intentional adjustments, March becomes a gentle invitation—for your house and the people in it—to breathe again.

Caitlin Justesen is the CEO & founder of Radcliffe House Designs, a Manassas-based interior design studio.

Grades K–12

ATTENTION WEDDING PROFESSIONALS:

Women’s Wedding Network is the premier network for wedding industry business owners and professionals in the D.C. metro area, where you’ll leave well-fed, well-connected and wellenergized!

Join us on the second Wednesday of every month. Visit womensweddingnetwork.com for complete details.

calendar

Prince William Living’s Influential Women Awards

Event

Thurs. Mar. 5 | 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Sweeney Barn

9310 Discovery Blvd., Manassas

Celebrate the winners of Prince William Living’s Influential Women Awards!

Tickets: princewilliamliving.com/join-uson-march-5-to-celebrate-the-winners-ofthe-influential-women-awards-2/

Visiting Mr. Green by Jeff Baron

Fri. Mar. 6 & Sat. Mar. 7 | 7:30 p.m.

Sun. Mar. 8 | 2 p.m.

ARTfactory

9419 Battle St., Manassas

Visiting Mr. Green is a touching and humorous stage play by Jeff Baron that explores the power of human connection across generations and cultures. When young executive Ross Gardiner nearly hits 86-year-old widower Mr. Green with his car, he’s sentenced by the court to spend six months visiting the stubborn old man as community service. What begins as a tense, uncomfortable weekly obligation soon evolves into a surprising friendship. Tickets: virginiaartfactory.org/

MARCH

Swords, Brooms & Magical Beasts

Sat. Mar. 7 | 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Art a La Carte Gallery

310 Mill St., Occoquan

One MAGICAL day in Occoquan returns, curated by Laine of Lainemindinventions. This free event is an extraordinary day of art demos, raffle for locally made art, scavenger hunt, workshops, and tarot readings. Costumes are encouraged but not required.

The Princess and The Pea: An Actors Theatre for Young Audiences Production

Sat. Mar. 7 | 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

ARTfactory

9419 Battle St., Manassas

Prince John must find a princess to marry so that he can claim the throne. A masked ball could be the solution.

But his stepmother, the Queen, and her jester have other ideas, complicating the issue with hilarious mischief. Will the true princess be found? Tickets: virginiaartfactory.org/

Manassas

Symphony

Orchestra: Sonic America

Sat. Mar. 7 | 7:30 p.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center

10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas

For this all-American program, the MSO features its principal harpist, Melanie Young, in a performance of Ennanga by William Grant Still. The program continues with Edward MacDowell’s Suite No. 2, which draws on motifs from the Iroquois, Iowa, and other Native American tribes to evoke Indigenous life, and concludes with Ferde Grofé’s iconic and sweeping Grand Canyon Suite. Tickets: hyltoncenter.org.

5th Annual Prince William County All-Star Basketball Game

Sun. Mar. 8 | 1 p.m.

Patriot High School

10408 Kettle Run Road, Nokesville

At the 5th annual Prince William County Wide All-Star basketball game, Eastern Prince William Basketball Association takes on the Gainesville Basketball Association. Free admission. Raffle giveaways, skills competition, and free throw contest.

2026 Women’s Empowerment Conference

Wed. Mar. 11 | 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Virginia Portuguese Center

9509 Lee Ave. W, Manassas

Presented by the Prince William Chamber of Commerce, the 2026 Women’s Empowerment Conference is reimagined around this year’s theme, Stronger Together. This annual event celebrates the collective strength of women who uplift one another, collaborate across industries, and work together to create lasting impact in Northern Virginia and beyond. Tickets: pwchamber.org

Virtual Midday with the Mayor and City Manager

Fri. Mar. 13 & Mar. 27 | 12 to 1 p.m.

Zoom webinar

Grab your lunch and join virtually for informal conversations with Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger and City Manager Steve Burke. RSVP via email at cityclerk@manassasva.gov to get the Zoom link.

Pied Piper Theatre’s In The Burning Darkness

Fri. Mar. 13 | 7 p.m.

Sat. Mar. 14 | 2 and 7 p.m.

ARTfactory

9419 Battle St., Manassas

In The Burning Darkness by Antonio Buero-Vallejo is a powerful and moving drama set in a school for the blind, where optimism and despair collide. When a new student challenges the others to confront the painful realities they’ve tried to ignore, tensions rise, revealing deep questions about truth, perception, and the human spirit. Tickets: virginiaartfactory.org/

Greater Manassas St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Sat. Mar. 14 | 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Historic Downtown Manassas

The parade will be held rain or shine, so please check the weather and dress accordingly. Green is the perfect color to wear for this family-oriented event that honors Irish history in America and highlights our community.

Cursive Club

Tue. Mar. 17 | 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Potomac Library

2201 Opitz Blvd., Woodbridge

Activities and exercises to help you learn to write and read in cursive. Learn to sign your name with style! For ages 8 to 12.

Annual Prince William/ Manassas History Symposium

Sat. Mar. 21 | 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Manassas Museum

9101 Prince William St., Manassas

Each year, local historians and experts explore the many facets of County history through a wide variety of lectures. Tickets are $10 for an all-day program. The Symposium also marks the release of the eighth edition of the Journal of Prince William County History, which will be on

sale for the special one-day price of $5. Tickets: parksandrec.pwcgov.org/

Maternal Health Conference

Sat. Mar. 21 | 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Verizon Auditorium

10900 University Blvd., Manassas

As Northern Virginia’s only 24-month housing program for pregnant women and mothers experiencing homelessness, Virginia Women and Family Support Center has a unique vantage point. Attend “What We’ve Seen” and hear directly from those on the frontlines: the doulas coaching women through labor, the therapists helping mothers process trauma, the OBGYNs monitoring high-risk pregnancies, the doctors celebrating healthy births against all odds, and VAWFSC’s team witnessing transformation every single day. Tickets: vawfsc.org

Voices United:

Gathered as One

Sat. Mar. 21 | 7:30 p.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center

10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas

The Manassas Chorale’s annual Voices United concert combines the talents of the Chorale with the Voices United Festival Choir. Directed by a guest clinician of national renown, these performers "raise the roof" with over 150 singers. Tickets: hyltoncenter.org.

2026 Frostbite Scramble

Wed. Mar. 25 | 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Old Hickory Golf Club

11921 Chanceford Drive, Woodbridge

Kick off your golf season with the Chamber’s annual Captain’s Choice tournament, where Chamber members and local professionals come together for a day of friendly competition, meaningful networking, and fresh air on the fairway. Designed for all skill levels, this scramble combines fun and friendly competition. Teams will compete for bragging rights and prizes, including Longest Drive, Closest to the Pin, and more! Tickets: pwchamber.org

Community Resource Fair

Wed. Mar. 25 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Pat White Center at Ben Lomond

10501 Copeland Drive, Manassas

Finding the right resources can make all the difference, especially for older adults and the families who support them. The City of Manassas CERT Community Emergency Response Team is hosting a Community Resource Fair designed to connect residents with programs and services that support healthy, active, and connected living. The Community Resource Fair, themed “Turning Data into Action,” is open to the public and focuses on meeting the needs of older adults across Prince William County and the City of Manassas.

Shipwreck on the Potomac: Disaster in Pursuit of Lincoln’s Killer by Karen E. Stone

Thurs. Mar. 26 | 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Old Manassas Courthouse

9248 Lee Ave., Manassas

In April 1865, as the nation reeled from Lincoln’s assassination, the U.S. Navy scoured the Potomac River for John Wilkes Booth. Anchored near Blackistone Lighthouse, the barge Black Diamond waited in vain to intercept the assassin. That night, tragedy struck when the steamer Massachusetts collided with the vessel, sending the Black Diamond to the river’s bottom and leaving 87 men dead. Author Karen E. Stone reveals the story of a heroic pursuit that turned tragic. This lecture is a free program jointly sponsored by the Prince William County Office of Historic Preservation and Historic Prince William.

Stroller Strides

Fri. Mar. 27 | 10 to 11 a.m.

Montclair Library

5049 Waterway Drive, Dumfries Stroller Strides is a Mommy and Me fitness class that integrates songs, rhymes, letters, and numbers to keep the littles entertained while mama works out. Registration required: pwcgov.libnet.info/ event/15395959

Stay current on the people, places and events that make Prince William a wonderful place to live, work, and play. A subscription to Prince William Living keeps you up-to-date with everything our region has to offer.

For an annual $20 donation to Give Back Prince William (a 501c(3) non-profit organization), you can get YOUR community magazine delivered to your door!

Already get it? Make sure you continue to get it by subscribing. Show your support and help us continue the work we do.

Name ______________________________________________

Email _______________________________________________

I’ve been getting it free and wish to pay for it.

Pay by check or online.

Visit www.pwliving.com/subscription to pay by Visa, Mastercard or American Express, or please include a check or money order made out to “Give Back Prince William” for the total amount to:

Subscription rate is $20 per year (12 issues), continental U.S. only. First issue arrives in 3-6 weeks. All subscriptions must be prepaid. What type of subscription is this?

Prince William Living ATTN: Circulation Department 9994 Sowder Village Square #816 Manassas, Virginia 20109