Featured Organization Friday: Goodwill of Greater Washington

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Published: 05/10/2013

You may have noticed last week, that we started up the "Featured Organization Friday" again, in an effort to share more about the ways you can become involved with local nonprofits and organizations and make a positive impact on the community. So when Goodwill reached out to PWC Moms to paticipate in their #Blog4Good campaign this week, I said yes! May 5th through May 11th marks Goodwill Industries Week, an annual celebration of Goodwill’s mission to provide free job training and employment services to people with disabilities and disadvantages.
You know Goodwill. They’re the folks you donate all your old stuff to. Bargain shoppers & budget fashionistas know their retail stores as a great place to go thrift shopping. But, do you know why goodwill accepts your donations? Do you know where the proceeds from those retail sales go? Simply put – they help people find jobs here in our community. Goodwill of Greater Washington’s primary mission is to provide job training and employment services to people with disadvantages and disabilities. They help real people get real jobs; fostering positive, contributing members to our community. All made possible by donations from people like you and me.

In 2012, Goodwill directly affected the lives of more than 3,200 people in our community. These are people who have re-found the dignity that comes with being a contributing member of our society.  Goodwill also diverted over 20 millions of trash from local landfills through their donation program. In addition to training people for jobs, placing them into jobs, providing consumers with access to quality, low cost goods, and acting as one our region’s largest recyclers, Goodwill is also a job developer. With each new store and donation center that Goodwill opens, 25-30 new jobs are created. Goodwill of Greater Washington’s mission is summed up by its tagline - “Transforming lives and communities”.

If you’d like to learn more about Goodwill of Greater Washington, find their nearest store or donation center, or get involved, visit dcgoodwill.org or download their free mobile app. Here in Prince William County there is a Goodwill Donation & Retail Center in Manassas, plus a Prince William County Landfill Attended Donation Center. There are also Goodwill locations nearby in Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Fairfax, Falls Church, Herndon, Stafford, plus an Outlet Store in Fredericksburg.

Disclosure: This blog post is a part of the #Blog4Good campaign to help spread the word about Goodwill of Greater Washington.
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Manassas Regional Airport Annual Open House & Airshow

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Published: 05/03/2013
This Saturday May 4th, 2013 from 10am-4pm is the annual Manassas Regional Airport Open House & Airshow! This is a FREE event that includes Aviation Madness, Aircraft Displays, Full Aerobatic Air-Show and Wing-Walking.



Location: Manassas Regional Airport, 10600 Harry Parrish Blvd, Manassas, VA 20110

Airshow Schedule of Events:
10:00 am - Gates Open
10:00-11:50 am -  Aircraft Displays, Flyby-s, RC Demos
10:45 am - Parade of Aircraft/Fly Bys
11:45 am - American Helicopters/Jumpers Launch
11:50 am - Opening Ceremony Begins
Presentation of Colors
11:50 am - RC Jet Demonstration
12:00 pm - Airport Waivered Airspace Begins
12:01 pm - 3rd Dimension Parachute Team
12:06 pm - American Helicopters Demonstration
12:15 pm - Kirk Wicker J3 Cub Act
12:27 pm - Randy Devere CJ-6 Aerobatics
12:39 pm - Warrior Aviation L-39 Jet
12:46 pm - Warrior Aviation Yak-9
1:00 pm - RC Jet/Hobby Hangar Demonstration
1:10 pm - Jane Wicker Wing Walking
1:24 pm - Scott Francis MXS Aerobatics
1:36 pm - Flying Circus Stearman Flight Launch
1:38 pm - Charles Schwenker X300 Aerobatics
1:50 pm - Flying Circus Stearman Flight
2:00-3:00 pm - Aircraft Displays, Vendors, RC Flying
5:00 pm - All Persons Must Have Left The Ramp.

Donations will be accepted at the gates to benefit the Manassas Freedom Museum.
Ample parking at airport with shuttle busses. Handicapped parking in all lots. No pets, no food and drinks on the ramp, and no smoking allowed inside the airfield. Food vendors will be set up in the food court area. Please note there will be security checkpoints and all large bags will be checked. Sunscreen is highly suggested.
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Potomac Mills Celebrates 10th Anniversary of Simon Kidgits Club

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Published: 04/04/2013


POTOMAC MILLS CELEBRATES THE SIMON KIDGITS CLUB’S
10th ANNIVERSARY

Simon Kidgits Club highlights a decade of fun, educational programming
for children and parents

WOODBRIDGE, VA (April 4, 2013) — To celebrate Simon Kidgits Club®’s 10 years of delivering entertaining, educational programming to kids at Simon® malls, Potomac Mills, the largest outlet and value retail shopping destination in the Washington, D.C. area, is offering Kidgits Club members a birthday puzzle when they visit Simon Guest Services in Neighborhood 4 (near the Food Court) with a valid Kidgits membership card throughout the month of April. Children will also receive birthday bubbles* during of the Kidgits Club’s spring event on Thursday, April 18 from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

As part of the ongoing anniversary celebration, children of all ages will spring into fun at this special Third Thursday event held at Bloomingdale’s – The Outlet Store in Potomac Mills’ Neighborhood 1 Fashion District.  Kidgits Club members will enjoy live musical entertainment from local children’s performer,Banjo Man Frank Cassel, delight in complimentary refreshments courtesy of Starbucks and Rita’s Ice and giveaways for moms and dads. In addition to birthday bubbles, children will also receive a complimentary pinwheel* in celebration of spring. Plus, for just $1, attendees will be able to enjoy VIK (Very Important Kid) goodie bags filled with delicious snacks**.

Introduced to Simon mall shoppers in 2003 by Simon Property Group, Inc. (NYSE:SPG), the world’s leading retail real estate company, the Simon Kidgits Club is a fun and informative program that focuses on health, wellness, education, safety and entertainment for children ages 3 to 8. Throughout the past decade, the Simon Kidgits Club has served as a community event staple for kids and parents by rewarding young members for good behavior; offering reading hours featuring favorite children’s authors; helping children enjoy time in the kitchen; and celebrating holidays like Halloween, Christmas and Easter.

More than 100 Simon malls, including Potomac Mills, offer Simon Kidgits’ Club programs which have played a key role in reaching the following milestones:
·         Engaging with over 1.8 million parents and kids since the inception of the program.
·         Hosting more than 10,000 family-focused events with more than 1,000 events annually.
·         Celebrating more than one million children’s birthdays by sending cards and receiving gifts.

Families are invited to join Simon Kidgits Club and receive a variety of benefits. Each Simon Kidgits Club member receives his or her own official Simon Kidgits Club membership package and T-shirt at the time of enrollment. Other benefits include: a ‘spin’ at the prize wheel whenever the Kidgits Club member visits the mall; special invitations to programs and events at the mall; special discounts and rewards for members only; a Birthday Club (including birthday card and gift redemption certificate); and a periodic newsletter with games, educational features and special news.

“The impact the Simon Kidgits Club has had on our members over the last decade has been phenomenal,” said Cathi Weiner, Senior Vice President, Simon Brand Ventures, “and we have also been able to use the platform as a catalyst to build relationships with consumer packaged goods companies, toy brands and entertainment properties who want to easily and directly reach parents and kids. Shoppers and sponsors alike realize the power of the mall as an entertainment and learning destination. The scope of the program has exceeded our expectations and we’re looking forward to the next 10 years.”

“Thousands of children and their parents participate in Kidgits Club activities each year,” said Jayne Stilson, SPG’s Assistant Vice President of Business Development who helped launch the Kidgits Club and has directed the program since its inception. Stilson continues, “Kidgits Club programming is varied but has always emphasized fun and learning. We’ve had a great time.”

For more information about the Simon Kidgits Club, visit Simon.com/Kidgits.

* While supplies last

** All of the proceeds collected from the VIK bags will benefit Simon Youth Foundation, which helps at-risk students earn high school diplomas and scholarships to realize their dream of going to college.

About Potomac Mills
Potomac Mills is the Washington, DC area’s largest outlet mall with more than 220 stores including Bloomingdale’s – The Outlet Store, Last Call by Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom Rack, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, True Religion Outlet, Michael Kors Outlet, Talbots Outlet, Tommy Bahama Outlet, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store, J.Crew | Crewcuts and Ann Taylor Factory Store.  In addition, the center boasts over 25 eateries and the AMC Potomac Mills 18 Theatres with IMAX.  A much anticipated new restaurant expansion has added The Cheesecake Factory and Bahama Breeze to the mix, with Bobby’s Burger Palace to follow later this year. 

Simon Property Group, Inc. (NYSE:SPG) is an S&P 100 company and the largest real estate company in the world.  The Company currently owns or has an interest in 326 retail real estate properties in North America and Asia comprising 242 million square feet. We are headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana and employ approximately 5,500 people in the U.S.  For more information, visit the Simon Property Group website at www.simon.com.

About The Mills, A Simon Company
The Mills®, one of Simon Property Group's five real estate platforms, offers a unique brand of shopping with a mix of popular name brand outlets, value retailers and full-price stores, plus family-oriented dining and entertainment concepts. The Mills are well-located in major metropolitan markets and many are recognized as leading tourism destinations. Notable properties include Arundel Mills (Baltimore), Gurnee Mills (Chicago), Grapevine Mills (Dallas), Ontario Mills (Los Angeles), Opry Mills (Nashville), Potomac Mills (Washington, DC) and Sawgrass Mills (Ft. Lauderdale/Miami).

Simon Property Group, Inc. (NYSE:SPG) is an S&P 100 company and the largest real estate company in the world.  The Company currently owns or has an interest in 325 retail real estate properties in North America and Asia comprising 242 million square feet. We are headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana and employ approximately 5,500 people in the U.S.  For more information, visit the Simon Property Group website at www.simon.com.

About Simon Brand Ventures
Simon Brand Ventures (SBV), Simon's business-to-consumer arm, is pioneering the transformation of shopping centers into a medium where consumer brands can build relationships with Simon shoppers who make over 2.8 billion visits each year.  Simon's vast franchise of market-leading shopping centers nationwide provides SBV the foundation to monetize the distribution system through numerous consumer ventures. SBV and its affiliates have engaged in a number of consumer business initiatives, including the Simon Visa Giftcard® and the American Express®/Simon Giftcard; launch of Simon platform programs such as Simon dTour Live® and Simon Kidgits Club®; a national media delivery channel including static, digital and experiential marketing and advertising vehicles; and multiple national and local marketing alliances with Coca-Cola and Visa U.S.A. among others.

# # #
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May Day 5K- Run It!

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Published: 03/29/2013
The Lake Ridge RidgeRunners are a great group, and I've mentioned them before.  Whether you're an experienced runner (they've got some Ultra Marathon Runners!) or you need to walk your 5k, they've got peers, positive reinforcement, and encouragement for you!  I never ever ever could've run the Cherry Blossom without starting with the RidgeRunners.  

One of the great events the RidgeRunners host is the May Day 5K.  This is a great event, especially because it's so kid-friendly!  If your Prince William County (or wherever) elementary school has a running club, this is a fantastic event to run with the kids!

Here are the details:


This event is an annual community 5K run and walk through Lake Ridge neighborhoods.  We encourage participants of all ages and fitness levels.  Enjoy a fun-filled day of friendly competition, music, great post-race food, an award ceremony prize raffle, face painting for children, and much more!   
May Day 5K Fees and Registration Schedule: 
  • $12 Early Bird Youth Fee (until March 31, 2013 for ages 18 and younger)
  • $15 Regular Youth Registration Fee (April 1 to April 27, 2013)
  • $20 Early Bird Adult Fee (until March 31, 2013)
  • $25 Regular Registration Fee (April 1 to 27, 2013)
  • $30 Race Weekend Registration (May 3, 4, 5, 2013 NO SHIRT)
Packet Pickup: 
  • Friday, May 3, 2013, at the Woodbridge VA RUNNER store from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Saturday, May 4, 2013 during the LRPRA Annual Yard Sale, 8 a.m. to noon 
  • Sunday, May 5, 2012, from 6:45 to 7:45 a.m.  
  • Please pick up your packets early
  • Race will start promptly at 8 a.m. on Sunday, May 5.
Award Ceremony: 
  • The award ceremony will begin at 9 a.m. and include a raffle for prizes.
  • Top three finishers in these age divisions will receive a medal: 10 and younger, 11-14, 15-18, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60 and older.
  • Top three male and female finishers will receive a trophy
  • Top male and female RidgeRunners Club members will receive a trophy
  • The elementary school and the adult team with the most participants will be named “Fittest School” and "Fittest Team" and receive a trophy
  • The elementary school and the adult team with the fastest average times for its top five finishers will be named “Fastest School” and "Fastest Team" and receive a trophy
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Meet the County: Supervisor Pete Candland, Gainesville District

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Published: 02/25/2013
In this series of posts, we'll introduce you to local decision makers and policy-changers.  The goal isn't to be political, and doesn't indicate an endorsement, but is rather to help you learn the faces and positions in Prince William County who you can go to for help, or with your concerns.  You'll notice the question is always the same, "Tell me what you love about Prince William County", and at the end of the post, you'll find a job description of the person listed.  I will not post from people during campaign season (unless it's someone who's mid-term and not currently running for re-election).  Hope this helps you know our county better!!
 

1) Tell me what you love about Prince William County
Prince William County is a great place to raise a family and make a living.  We have great schools, a tremendous history, and wonderful people.  That's why my family moved here, and that's why Robyn and I are committed to serving this community.  In addition to the family-friendly environment of Prince William County, we're working towards making our county more jobs-friendly, so that our citizens can live and work in the same area.

2) What parts of the county are included in your district?
The Gainesville District is the Western-most and Northern-most magisterial district in Prince William County.  It includes the entire area North of I-66, as well as Haymarket and specific precincts in Manassas near I66.  From the areas by Splashdown, to the hills of Bull Run Mountain, the Gainesville District is a beautiful area with wonderful, generous people.

3) What is it, exactly, that you do/how can you help citizens
First, I represent citizens of the Gainesville District and their interests on the Board of County Supervisors.  To do this, I engage in constant outreach to constituents via one-on-one meetings, town hall meetings, social media, and many phone calls.  Secondly, I have a top-notch staff that helps constituents every day with their interactions with county government.  Our office is usually on the front lines of helping constituents who need help with local government.

4) How can people get in touch with you?
www.SupervisorCandland.com
Gainesville@pwcgov.org
www.facebook.com/SupervisorPeteCandland
Gainesville Supervisor Pete Candland
7001 Heritage Village Plaza, Suite 210
Gainesville, VA 20155
703-792-6195
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Meet the County: Supervisor Frank Principi, Woodbridge District

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Published: 02/18/2013
In this series of posts, we'll introduce you to local decision makers and policy-changers.  The goal isn't to be political, and doesn't indicate an endorsement, but is rather to help you learn the faces and positions in Prince William County who you can go to for help, or with your concerns.  You'll notice the question is always the same, "Tell me what you love about Prince William County", and at the end of the post, you'll find a job description of the person listed.  I will not post from people during campaign season (unless it's someone who's mid-term and not currently running for re-election).  Hope this helps you know our county better!!
 
What do you love about Prince William County?
Prince William has it all.  We enjoy the four seasons, rivers, premiere schools, good paying jobs, shopping, outdoor recreation, quick access to the nation’s capital, and a lot of American history!  Did you know that we have nearly 1,000 acres of national wildlife refuge, two rivers, and golf in Woodbridge?  Did I mention shopping?  Potomac Mills Mall and Potomac Town Center have several hundred retailers and restaurants to enjoy. 


What parts of the county are included in your District?
The Woodbridge Magisterial District is the Northern Gateway to Prince William County.  The Occoquan and Potomac Rivers constitute its northern and eastern borders with I-95/Route 1 and River Ridge Boulevard as the western and southern borders.  Significant local landmarks include the Occoquan and Featherstone Wildlife Refuges, Historic Rippon Lodge, Potomac Library, Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center, Leesylvania State Park, Osprey Golf Course, five marinas, and the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail. 
Plans are also underway in the District to build a 6,000 seat minor league baseball stadium to house the Carolina League World Champion Potomac Nationals Baseball Team.  We expect the first pitch to be thrown out in the Spring 2015. 

What is it that you do/how can you help citizens?
Members of the Board of County Supervisors are responsible for policy and budget decisions of local government, including decisions about our critical unmet public safety and fire, schools, transportation infrastructure, human services, and economic development needs.  I believe our most important responsibilities are helping the private sector create new jobs, eliminate our traffic congestion, ensure proper classroom sizes and teacher pay, promoting mixed use (town center) development, and working with the community to improve everyone’s quality of life. 
Since taking office, I have worked with the community to build and implement a vision of a New Woodbridge.  The vision includes building three mixed use developments along the Route 1 corridor, widening our roads and offering more transit options (including high-speed passenger ferry service), and helping to preserve our maturing neighborhoods.  Today, we have nearly $1 billion in public and private investment (not including the new homes being built) coming out of the ground so our vision is in full swing!
As the elected Supervisor, my responsibility is to ensure good government, keeping residents informed and a part of the decision-making process, and aggressively implementing of the vision of a New Woodbridge. Constituents often contact my office with concerns about street lighting, zoning violations next door, referrals to human service providers, and opening new businesses.  We are always glad to serve as liaisons to our federal, state, and local government agencies.

How can people get in touch with you?
People are always welcome to call or drop by my office any day of the week during office hours.  Constituents can also email me.  We also enjoy being invited to events and meetings in the community.
For real-time information on all things vision, visit us at www.NewWoodbridge.org and Like Me on Facebook
Supervisor Frank J. Principi
15941 Donald Curtis Drive, Suite #140
Woodbridge, Virginia 22191
 WoodbridgeDistrict@pwcgov.org
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Dumfries Black History Month Celebration

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Published: 02/06/2013
The Town of Dumfries will present a Black History Month Celebration entitled "Believe, Achieve, Succeed: Showcasing Inspiring Testimonials from Change Agents in Our Community".  Light refreshments will follow. 

Saturday, February 9, 2013
12pm-2pm
Little Union Baptist Church
17150 Mine Road
Dumfries VA 22026
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Scottish Highland Festival This Weekend! January 26/27

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Published: 01/25/2013
Just a reminder! Scottish Highland Festival this weekend! Sounds like fun, kids are just $5.

Saturday, January 26 from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm:

  • Bagpipe and Drumming Master Class
  • Bonnie Rideout Presents: The Art of Scotland's Fiddle Piobaireachd
  • Demonstrations of Scottish Country Dancing with open social dancing
  • Children’s Passport to Scotland featuring Highland Games and crafts in cooperation with Mid-Atlantic Scots 4 Tots
  • Exhibits highlighting authentic crafts and goods for sale—including jewelry, pottery, traditional apparel and much more
  • Presentations examining the culture and history of Scotland’s past and present
    • $15 Adults • $5 Children Buy Tickets Now!

A Taste of Scotland

  • Scotch Whisky Master Class with Dougie Wylie the Scotch Whisky Man
    (Must be 21 years of age or older to attend)
    • $35 per person

  • Note: Admission to the Festival is included with the purchase of the Scotch Whisky Master Class or Full Afternoon Tea.

Click here for a complete schedule of activities.

Sunday, January 27:

  • The Black Watch & the Band of the Scots Guards
      • & The Pipes, Drums and Highland Dancers of 3rd Battalion
      4:00 pm in Merchant Hall
      The magnificent pageantry of British military tradition and history comes to life when these two esteemed military bands take the stage and fill the hall with rousing marches, stirring anthems and the distinctive sounds of bagpipes and brass.
      $34, $42, $50 • Family Friendly pricing available: Buy Tickets Now!
  • Burns Night Supper
      • 6:30 pm in Gregory Family Theater
      Join us for a Burns Night Supper following the performance. This festive dinner will include all the pomp and pageantry fit to celebrate the life and works of Scotland’s national bard, Robert Burns. A special performance by International Scottish Fiddler Bonnie Rideout, poetry reading and the presentation of Scotland’s national dish, Haggis, complete the festivities for the evening!

      A Special Offer for our FRIENDS, when you buy a ticket to the Burns Night Supper receive admission for one to Saturday’s events for FREE. However, the offer does not include admission to the Scotch Whisky Tasting or Full Afternoon Tea.

Click here for a complete schedule of activities.

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PechaKucha January 2013

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Published: 01/23/2013

PechaKucha Night is an informal community gathering where creative people get together and share their ideas, works, experiences and thoughts in a standardized format. Each presentation features 20 images, which are timed to show for 20 seconds each. Each presentation is six minutes 40 seconds long.
  
PechaKucha Nature Night is this Saturday, Jan.26. Doors open at 6:00 PM (dinner), and the program begins at 7:30 pm at The Electric Palm (12745 Sea Ray Lane, Woodbridge). Sponsored by Lake Ridge Parks & Recreation Association and Prince William Conservation Alliance, this event is open to the public and free of charge; buy your own food & drinks. Please note the restaurant seats 60 people; after that it's standing room only.  You won't want to miss this popular event featuring outstanding presentations by your friends and neighbors: 

Kristi Smedley - Galapagos 
Eli Hosen - Food for All Ages
Neil Nelson - Trail Projects in PWC
Marty Nohe - Off-road Hiking with Kids
Kelly Jimenez - Eggscellent Chicken Tales
Cindy Smith - Flowers and Bugs Make the World Go Round
Caryn Stein - Snapping & Trapping in Prince William Forest
Charlie Grymes - Open Spaces and the Tri-County Parkway
Uriah Kiser - Government Island: A walk into monumental history
Julie Flanagan - Spring Warblers are Coming Soon to a Neighborhood Near You 
 
More information is online at http://www.pwconserve.org/events/ or call PWCA at 703.499.4954.
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Save the Date Dumfries 2013

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Published: 01/23/2013
Dumfries already has their 2013 events planned! Save the dates for fun family events in Prince William County!


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Giveaway: Peter and the Wolf at the Hylton Performing Arts Center

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Published: 01/19/2013

The children and family performances at the Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas, Virginia, are a great way to expose your children to the arts in Prince William County!

Coming up in February, the Hylton Family Series will be presenting Peter and the Wolf on February 2nd with showtimes at 2pm and 4pm.  Children's tickets are just $5, which is very affordable, with adults at $15 per ticket.  Tickets can be purchased at 1-888-945-2468, or online at HyltonCenter.org

Here's a synopsis:
The Pushcart Players makes its Hylton Center debut presenting the beloved and familiar folk tale,Peter and The Wolf. Set to music by Prokofiev, this charming Russian story follows a young boy who dares to venture into the woods, despite his grandfather’s warning about a dangerous wolf that lurks within. When Peter’s beloved duck, Clara, is swallowed whole by the wolf the brave boy is determined to capture the fierce creature and save his friend. This classic tale offers a splendid introduction for children into the world of music, with a different instrument and melody representing each character in the story. Don’t miss this Emmy-nominated ensemble hailed by The New York Times as “a polished and knowing theatre company … for children.”


The Hylton Performing Arts Center is generously offering two family four packs of tickets to Prince William County Moms readers, one set for the 2pm performance and one set for the 4pm performance.  Enter using the Rafflecopter below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Winner assumes all liability and risk.  Facebook is not affiliate with this contest. Prize provided directly to winner by Hylton Performing Arts Center, not transferrable or exchangeable for other performances or cash.
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Review: Skate N Fun Zone

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Published: 01/17/2013
If you've been reading my site for any amount of time, you know that we're huge fans of "Mommy Dates" and "Daddy Dates" in our family. (If you haven't been reading my site, then welcome.) We truly value having one-on-one time with our children so that we can really have time to know their hearts and how they're doing.  We try to make sure that each child gets individual time with one of us at least once a month.  Sometimes it's a big deal and we take them out to do something that costs money, but other times it's a walk, or a trip to Starbucks, or a walk around Target and something from the $1 section.

On New Years Eve Day, our boys were invited to go play with friends, which left our daughter home alone.  I needed to do some lesson planning, so she and daddy decided to capitalize on their alone time by heading out to Skate N Fun Zone, which offers a New Year's Eve Party at both mid-day and midnight.  Brilliant!  They actually offer special events both weekly and monthly, including a homeschool skate, rock-n-stroll for parents who have infants and older children, and more.

Skate N Fun Zone is located at 7878 Sudley Road  Manassas, VA 20109 (for those of you who always like to have an address listed) 

$10 per person covered their admission, glow cups, a balloon drop, party favors, and glow sticks.  With just two of them, it was definitely workable, although they also offer a discount for purchasing a "super pack" with 4 admissions.  For a special event like New Years, I would say that's worth it. 

The actual building is behind a few other buildings, so while there is a sign from the road, you have to "do kind of a u-turn thing" to get to the actual location. 

He's an engineer, guys, not a writer. 

For this particular event, there was no parking available, and my husband ended up asking a local Liberty Mutual agent if he could park in his lot, and he was very nice, since it was New Years.  However, inside my husband heard there's overflow parking (somewhere) so be sure to check on that if you find yourself in the same situation.

After they rented their skates, they found a spot to drop their stuff, which was slightly challenging since there were so many people.  Lockers are available to rent for your valuables, which is probably a good idea especially on a special event day.  He had this recap:
"Everything seemed relatively clean, but definitely used.  The floor was definitely well-worn, but it didn't impede our ability to skate.  There's a jungle gym included in the price, a little food area where you can buy food, and an arcade area similar to Chuck-E-Cheese where you can pay for games and get tickets to trade in for lame prizes."
"I'd say what I liked most was that they had a large variety of things to do, and even with the skating they'd shift between a game (like Limbo or backwards skate) and regular skating, and there was the arcade and the gym, so we were able to rotate a lot and stay for a pretty long time considering our daughter is 4.  We were there for several hours.  We got there just as they were finishing the balloon drop, and it was loud, so she wasn't a huge fan of that becuase everyone was popping balloons and that was "scary" for her.  I'd go again, we had a great time. I also liked that their rules included the ability to kick people out who were not dressed appropriately, were cursing, or appeared to be under the influence of anything."
I tried to grill him about something negative to say, but the hard part about reviewing things in our family is that we, generally speaking, have fun, and decide that it's a good time :)

My daughter also said that she had fun and would go again.

Especially with her daddy.



Not a paid or solicited review, hubby and DD went and paid just like everyone else. 





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Sign Up Now- "Lest We Forget"

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Published: 01/16/2013
The Prince William Historic Preservation Society will be hosting "Lest We Forget" a Conference on Enslavement and Emancipation on February 21-23rd at Hylton Memorial Chapel in Woodbridge, Virginia.  The event, as part of Black History Month, is open to any interested party.  Registration will be available online (but as of publishing this post was not), and questions can be directed to HistoricPreservation@pwcgov.org


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Reviews: Pa Nuang Thai

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Published: 01/15/2013
Highly recommended on the "Readers Recommend: Restaurants in Prince William County" is Pa Nuang Thai.  I actually thought I'd written about it before, but apparently, I haven't.  Or, maybe I have, but it's so good that I'm going to do it again. (Edit: I found it! It was for PotomacLocal.com)

It's my website, people, and I'll do what I want to.

So, Pa Nuang is amazing, and I like it better than all the other Thai restaurants in the county that I've tried.  Hands down. No, I don't care that you like the other one by the Safeway.  Typically there's room for everyone's opinions, but right now I am taking a firm stand on Thai.

 Their menu is extensive, and everything on it is amazing.  I love the crisp, fresh green papaya salad, and the Tom Kha Soup which is both sweet and salty, spicy and sour, and just generally amazing.  Hubby and I went their for a date night the other day, and we ended up with these:
 This is chicken with bell peppers and basil.  I'm sure it has an actual name, but it's number 3 down on the "Entrees" section.  Yeah, I know that.
This is the soup I now want anytime there's anything wrong or right with me.  I've had a migraine and been in bed for days, and reflecting on it, I'm actually ticked off that my husband didn't bring me soup.  I know I wasn't eating, but it would've reheated when I wanted it.  Originally, this was "Korean Noodle Soup", but apparently now it's "Clear Noodle Soup".  It's broth, ground chicken (or you can get it vegetarian or with shrimp...maybe? I don't like seafood so I don't reserve space in my brain for it) vegetables, and noodles, and it's amazing.  If you're a glutton for punishment like we are, they'll even bring out crushed red peppers that are waaaay spicier than anything you've ever shaken on your pizza.  Next Level Delicious.

(Yes, we ordered two entrees just for the two of us.  It's important to have leftovers when the food is this good.  Don't judge me until you try it.  Even then, don't judge me.)

Dishes can be ordered "American Spicy", which I would call "not spicy", "Regular Spicy" which is probably spicy enough for most people, or "Thai Spicy", which will clear your sinuses and make your tongue tingle.  I personally enjoy Thai Spicy, but recommend starting a little further down the scale until you know what you're getting into.

For the kids, I recommend the Thai Sweet and Sour, or, if they're more adventitious, the fried tofu with sweet chili sauce is really good.  The sweet and sour comes with the chicken in chunks and crispy (a la "nugget" but with recognizable meat) and the sauce on the side. My kids actually like the Pad Thai with shrimp and the tempura carrots from my Green Curried Vegetables.  They're not normal, though.

This is a really long post about how much I love Pa Nuang at this point....but it's really, really, really good.  They're not paying me to write this....I am, in fact, paying them.  For soup.  Which I could really use right now- I wonder if they're open....
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Louis the Magician at Kidgits!

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Published: 01/14/2013
LOUIS THE MAGICIAN TO CAPTIVATE AUDIENCES AT POTOMAC MILLS
ON JANUARY 17
 
Potomac Mills presents the monthly Simon Kidgits Club® Third Thursday Event
 
WHAT:          Parents and kids of all ages are invited to a morning of magic and mystery with a hilarious performance by Louis the Magician as part of the Simon Kidgits Club’s monthly series of events at Potomac Mills. Guests will delight in complimentary refreshments courtesy of Starbucks and Rita’s Ice as well as special deals for moms and dads. Kidgits Club members will take home free silly nose/mustache glasses and a magic wand, while supplies last. Plus, for just $1, attendees will be able to enjoy VIK (Very Important Kid) goodie bags filled with delicious snacks.* 


 
In addition, event guests will receive a free $20 Disney Store Outlet gift card with any mall-wide purchase(s) totaling $100!**
 
*All of the proceeds collected from the VIK bags will benefit Simon Youth Foundation, which helps at-risk students earn high school diplomas and scholarships to realize their dream of going to college.
 
**Present the flyer provided at the event and receipts totaling $100 or more from retailers at Potomac Mills between Thursday, January 17, 2013 and Wednesday, January 23, 2013 at Simon Guest Services and receive one $20 Disney Store Outlet gift card; limit two.  Purchases must be in the same time frame as the redemption period.  Must be 18 or older to participate.  Void where prohibited by law.  See Official Rules and Regulations for more information.
 
WHEN:          Thursday, January 17
                        10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
 
WHERE:        Potomac Mills (Grand Court by TJ Maxx)
                        2700 Potomac Mills Circle
                        Woodbridge, VA 22192
 
COST:            Free
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Readers Recommend: Preschools 2012/2013

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Published: 01/10/2013

The Lake Ridge Moms' Club is sponsoring its annual Preschool Open House on January 26, 2013 from 3-5pm at Tall Oaks Community Center; 12298 Cotton Mill Drive in Lake Ridge. Several of the Preschools listed here will be present.  This event is FREE and open to the public, not just members of LRMC.

**Disclaimer:  These reviews have been submitted by individual parents who are representing their experience with a school.  PWC Moms does not necessarily endorse any or all of these schools and encourages parents to visit a school before enrolling their child.  After much consideration, it is our policy when asking parents to share their experiences with schools or play areas, or businesses, to share those opinions to aid other parents, even if our personal experience contradicts the views of another parent.  Please always conduct your own research and site visits in addition to looking at the experience of other parents at any particular school.**

Please note this list is added to every year.  The oldest reviews are from 2010, and the most recent were received this month. The Schools we received feedback on, in alphabetical order by name of school are:

ALPHA-BET COOPERATIVE PRESCHOOL (2 Reviews)
10047 Nokesville Rd, Manassas VA 20110. 
My son goes to the fabulous Alpha-Bet Cooperative Preschool in Manassas.  It's on Centreville Rd in between Godwin and Wellington. We have an open house February 1 from 12-2.   Being a cooperative school, the parents are active in their children's education. I help out 1-2 times a month in the classroom, and I'm on the board. My son is so happy there, and the different parents helping really adds to the dynamic of the classroom.  :)  I had checked out many in the area and fell in love with Alpha-Bet. 

Myself along with 3 other mommy friends cooperatively taught our children for their first year of preschool. After looking at some other preschools in the Manassas area, I decided that a cooperative preschool was the perfect fit for us. It allowed me to be in the classroom but gave her the formal classroom that she needed to get accustomed to. And we both love it.
As the children arrive the day starts manipulative time, circle time, center time, and the rest of the day flies by with bathroom break, snack and recess. The last 15 minutes are circle time again where the themes of the day are reinforced, calendar and weather are talked about. Class ends at 12:15.
My daughter has really taken to her teacher and the friends she's made in the class. She's eagerly awaiting the return to class tomorrow. The ideas presented in class really stick with her and she's constantly telling me what Ms Jo said. Even if it's something that I know was introduced to her last year by me. Don't know if that is because someone else is explaining it, she's a year older, or Ms. Jo is really that good. :) Also, my daughter is always excited when she knows that I will be in the classroom. I love that I get to see exactly what's going on in the classroom. I don't have to pull teeth to know how her day went (as I've heard other Mommies mention). Plus I feel like I'm holding onto her just a little bit longer. Now the logistics. This is the part that parents always worry about. How much commitment there is. Before school starts every parent that will volunteer in the classroom is subjected to a background test and must obtain a TB test. Only one parent is required, however both parents are given the opportunity to volunteer. A parent will typically have to volunteer 2, possibly 1, times a month. One of those times you will provide snack for your class.  You must sign up for one parent "job". It can be as simple or involved as you wish. For example, organizing a family night, classroom parent, fundraiser coordinator, board president, etc.  In addition, a parent must attend 6 pre-determined dates for setup/cleanup or training. For those of you with younger siblings, the school will assist you in pairing up with another parent to trade babysitting services while the other volunteers. And ensures that you will not volunteer on the same day. I have a 3 year old (not old enough for school) and have found it very easy to trade with another mother and he loves going with her.  (Click Here for Website)

Note from the School: Please visit Alpha-Bet Preschool on February 1, 2013 from noon - 2 pm to meet teachers, tour the school, and register your child for an excellent preschool experience.  Alpha-Bet is a unique, collaborative school with excellent, developmentally appropriate academic and social experiences for 3 and 4 year olds.  Our students leave the school well-prepared for kindergarten, and our parents have an incredible opportunity for involvement in the school. We are the only cooperative preschool in Prince William County. We are also a non-profit, parent-run school with well-educated and excellent teachers. 


CHESTERBROOK ACADEMY
Various Locations- Reviewed Location is 12960 Troupe Street  Woodbridge, VA 22192
I recommend Chesterbrook Academy in Woodbridge.  My daughter began at summer camp when she was 3.  She had been home with me and it was a hard transition.  They encouraged me to call and check on her the first week and even called me with updates. She attended two years of preschool.  We have been very pleased with the progress she has made.  They teach Spanish, sign language, computer skills and more. I feel that Chesterbrook has prepared her well for Kindergarten.  I would recommend the school to everyone! (Click Here for Website)

CLOVERDALE PRESCHOOL (2 Reviews)
13506 Minnieville Road  Woodbridge, VA 22192
I love, love, love the 2 1/2 year old and 3 year old program offered by Cloverdale.  The teachers are superb.  They have a very real, effective way of interacting with the children, and to say they are gifted in teaching is an understatement.  These ladies are the kind you want your children to have teaching them EVERY year because of their true interest in the kids.  I can't say enough good things about these teachers.  Besides their basic preschool classroom learning (language skills, art, counting, etc.), the kids also had music and P.E.  My kids LOVED music day in the "Big Room".  The staff I interacted with were pretty phenomenal as well.  They always got me information I requested and were nice people to have around.  Cloverdale has a great program going on, and it's quite affordable.  I highly recommend it.

We absolutely love Cloverdale for many reasons, and have used it for both of our older children, our youngest will begin attending, too, in the fall.  With programs beginning at 2 and a half years (Half days Tuesday and Thursday) ranging up to an outstanding Pre-K program, Cloverdale has a well-established program that focuses on literacy readiness, core competencies, and social skills.  They offer German to the students in the 4 and 5 year old programs, which all of the kids seem to love.  The teachers are all amazing and most of them (the exception being the teacher for the relatively new 2 year old program) have been at the school for many years which speaks to the happy, cohesive teaching team at this school.  The teachers are as patient and understanding as they are qualified, and have the skills and calm, even tempers needed to help even the most clingy children adjust to being away from their primary caregiver while they learn to function in a school setting.  Cloverdale also offers "Stay and Play" for $10, which allows students to remain until 2pm (the normal day is from 9-12) and has been a lifesaver for me on a few occasions where I was volunteering at the elementary school or had a doctor's appointment.  Also, Cloverdale offers private K-3 grades if you are looking for a school where your child can stay for the early years of elementary school.  We love it at Cloverdale and would never leave if we could keep our kids preschool aged forever!! (Click Here for Website) 
From the school: Tours and class observation welcome Appointments recommended but not
required.

DAYTIME PLAYTIME:
14680 Gap Way Gainesville, Va 20155
A shout out to Daytime Playtime in Haymarket too, they are awesome!  We love their summer camp and they were a top contender when i was touring preschools.  So much so that we have sent our son to their summer camp 2 years running! (Click Here for Website

From the School: Registration for the 2013-2014 school year will be open to our current families at 9am on Tuesday, January 22nd. Open registration will begin on Monday, February 4th to the public. Contact the office for more information. The registration fee is $100 and class prices will remain the same.

FREEDOM CENTER PRESCHOOL (2 Reviews):
9100 Freedom Center Boulevard  Manassas, VA 20110
We sent both of our children to the Freedom Center for preschool. We were very happy with the teachers and curriculum.

The Freedom Center preschool is small, really tiny, and that's its strength and its weakness.  There is only one small classroom, so there are only 4 classes---3 am, 3 pm, 4am, 4pm.  The same teachers teach all the children (the three year old teacher is the four year old PE teacher, the four year old teacher is the three year old PE teacher) and the aides work for all the classes.  As a result, the children know their teachers very well and the teachers and aides know the children very well.  There is a very warm, family atmosphere that makes even the shyest kids feel comfortable.  Miss Phyllis, who is the director, is warm and accessible and laid back, and her attitude really permeates the whole program. The classroom is tiny, but the children leave at least once a day for PE elsewhere in the building and often times more frequently for activities.  There is a big emphasis on physical education and the children are taken outside whenever weather permits (even on chilly days, they bundle up and go out).  There is no pick-up/drop-off and the preschool room is in the very back of the large building.  This means on rainy days, you have to hustle through a huge parking lot and then through the whole building.  Pick-up/drop-off takes a lot longer here than I imagine it does at other schools. The curriculum is play-based and there is definitely a big difference between the 3 year old program (which has little academics and is more focused on teaching children what school is and how to be a student) and the 4 year old program (where there is a heavy emphasis on pre-reading skills).  There are little to no worksheets and lots of hands-on activities.  My son came into the program a bit wild and unfocused.  He struggled a bit towards the end of the 3 year old year but has really excelled in the 4 year old program.  I think the caring, relaxed atmosphere and the ton of physical activity provided have really helped him. (Click Here for Website)

From the school: Open Registration for the general public begins February 13, 2013.

GOOD SHEPHERD PRESCHOOL (5 Reviews):
14999 Birchdale Avenue  Woodbridge, VA 22193
Pros: low tuition, kind teachers, private classrooms, walk-in drop-off and pick-up. Cons: very little communication/organization from teachers or director, no outside play (even though there is a playground.) (**Note from PwcMoms- I get an angry email EVERY year that Good Shepherd does offer outdoor play.  I don't know anything about the program, so I can't comment)

I had such anxiety about sending my quite shy 3 year old to preschool last year but our experience at Good Shepherd had been so wonderful.  The director is amazing and from the first moment, she made my daughter and I feel so welcome and reassured.  It's not as "high-tech" as many parents would like, but the wonderful teachers and the caring and attention they provide the children (and the parents) cannot, in my opinion, be beat.  There is a feeling of "family" at Good Shepherd. They pay close attention to the safety of the children and as a "worry wart" mom, that has helped ease much of my anxiety.  I also like the smaller teacher to student ratio.  This is our 2nd year there and my daughter attends the 5 day a.m. 4's program (they're teaching the Handwriting Without Tears program which I love) -- she is SO happy everyday I pick her up that it really does warm my heart!  I KNOW she'll be ready to start kindergarten (both academically and socially) in the fall and I owe the majority of that knowledge to Good Shepherd.  I really believe that the majority of parents who choose Good Shepherd are 100% satisfied with their decision.  

I sent my two sons to Good Shepherd UMC for two years. I chose GSUMC when it was recommended by one of the teachers from their preschool in Florida, which I ADORED. We were very pleased with their preschool experience in the two years they attended GSUMC. 
My sons are only a year apart and one thing I Appreciated about GS was the boys could be in separate classes. They offer more age group options than many of the other schools, including classes specially for kids who just miss the K cutoff. I liked that they offered both morning an afternoon classes. I was pleased with the level of academics. 
The teachers and director were all extremely friendly, nurturing and kind. I never had any issues with the level of communication from either. In fact, when I was experiencing behavioral issues with one of my sons, his teacher and the director kindly sat down and listened/tAlked with me while his TA looked after my 3 children, all on their lunch break. His teachers then did everything they could at school to provide the structure an continuity he needed to address the issues at home.
GSUMC does have a playground and they had outdoor time every day, weather permitting. They also had a weather plan in place so that there was indoor physical activity available for those inclement days. 
To me, the only thing I was somewhat disappointed with was the balance of secular/religious for a Christian preschool. There was one short chapel talk and chapel music per month. I felt like there could have been more and I wished there had been more of a focus on the religious, especially at Christmas and Easter. 
Overall, we were extremely pleased with GSUMC as a preschool and I would wholeheartedly recommend it.

We are thrilled with Good Shepherd on Birchdale. The teachers are fantastic, and they work with an exciting and fun curriculum. There's a perfect mix of play and learning. The kids are outside everyday, and there are a lot of activities, such as a pumpkin patch trip, visit from fire fighters, and an outing to a holiday concert. They engage the kids with different crafts and activities and my daughter loves attending school!


The curriculum at Good Shepherd Preschool stresses all aspects of growth and development.  They work on physical, social, and emotional development, as well as academic development. They believe that children learn through their senses, activity, curiosity, imitation, conversation, imagination, and widened experiences. There is a fifteen minute chapel time monthly taught by GSUMC's Christian Educatoror her designee. (Click Here for Website)
 

HAYMARKET BAPTIST CHURCH PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN:
14800 Washington Street  Haymarket, VA 20169
Can't say enough good things about the teachers and staff at Haymarket Baptist Church Preschool & Kindergarten.  Love them!  Great school, great programs.  (Click Here for Website)
         

KIDS IN MOTION PRESCHOOL (4 Reviews):
Kids N Motion offers an amazing preschool program.  My daughter attended the preschool during the 2010 to 2011 school year and my son currently attends the school.  The teachers are excellent and what I like best is that they make learning fun! Before I had children, I worked as a Prince William County school teacher, so education is very important to me.  I was looking for a school that would prepare my kids academically and socially for kindergarten and just as importantly be a place that they loved and looked forward to going to! Kids N Motion does just that, and I would highly recommend the school to other parents.


My son attends kidsnmotion preschool. The teachers are kind and personable. I have had trouble trusting anyone other than family with my children and I have become so confident in kidsnmotion. My son loves the projects they complete almost daily and I always proud to show off his work. They also offer "gym" time first which allows the kids to run off some energy so that they are ready to learn. The price is GREAT for the quality care and knowledge they teach. I will be sending all of my children to kidsnmotion and you should too!

A year or so ago, I asked my friend, who is a kindergarten teacher, what children need to know before starting school.  Expecting her to say that they should know their alphabet, their numbers, and how to write their name, I was surprised by her response.  She said that academics can be taught in kindergarten and are all part of the kindergarten curriculum.  What children really need to know is how to share, take turns, and take responsibility for their actions.  According to this kindergarten teacher, who has a Master's degree in literacy development, it is most important for preschool-aged children to have as much imaginative and creative play as possible.  With this in mind, I decided to pursue a preschool program that encouraged gross and fine motor skill develop, with more emphasis on play and physical development than on academics.  Kids N Motion has been the perfect balance for us, offering free play time on their inflatable bouncing equipment, structured exercising time to work on gross motor skills (i.e. jumping on one foot, balancing on a balance beam), pretend play with traditional preschool toys (i.e. play kitchen, trucks, and blocks), and one-on-one instructional time on fine motor skills (i.e. writing and drawing).  My 3-year-old twins have made many new friends and practice their skills and sing their songs every evening at home.  Also, the price is extremely reasonable.  Sending twins to preschool means that every cost is doubled, and yet we are able to manage the tuition within our budget.
My daughter attends kids n' motion twice a week.  It is a great preschool and accepts children starting at 2 and 1/2 and they do not have to be potty trained!  My daughter started at 2 and 1/2 and is 3 now.  They do play, craft time, snack, read books, learn letters, etc.  It is a really great program.  My daughter has learned so much already and loves making crafts. (Click Here for Website)

KIDS ON THE MOVE PRESCHOOL:
Kids on the move is great. Can't say enough good things about them (Click here for Website)

LAKE RIDGE CREATIVE PRESCHOOL- 4 Reviews:
Love the Lake Ridge Creative Preschool, located on the corner of Old Bridge Road and Oakwood Dr.  Explorers class for 3-4 year olds is Tuesday and Thursday, either 9:15 - 1:30 or 9:45 - 2:00.  PreK for 4-5 year olds is M, W, F, same times.  The curriculum is the perfect mix of fun and learning.  The children do art projects, sing songs, do puzzles, learn to use the computer, go on field trips, learn Spanish, play outside daily, etc - it is amazing to me the creative ways they get the children engaged in learning.  There is an after school reading program for children that show they are ready to begin reading independently, though learning the alphabet and writing skills are taught to all almost from day one!  The preschool is open to everyone - non-Lake Ridge residents pay a bit more in tuition, though it is very reasonably priced - last year, Explorers were $120/month for residents, $130 for nonresidents, and PreK was $170/180.  Contact the Lake Ridge Recreation Department at 703-497-7112, or stop by the office, located in the vicinity of the preschool at the back of the big parking lot. 

I follow your posts via Facebook and read that you were looking for preschool reviews.  I saw you had a recommendation for Lake Ridge Creative already, but I decided to send in another one.  The following is excerpted from a letter I wrote to the Lake Ridge Board of Directors a few months ago in support of the preschool program.  My daughter attended for both preschool and pre-K, and I am very pleased with the school and highly recommend it to others.

We left St. Matthews for Lake Ridge Creative preschool. We were looking for something longer and more comprehensive...we have loved every year! Ms Jean gives her heart to these kids and truly prepares them for kindergarten. She has reading and math groups after school for children who are ready to take that next step. She does this on her own time, without an extra charge. It is definitely a great balance between social/fun time and instruction.

When I was looking to choose a preschool for my daughter, my main focus was on the school's reputation and the quality of the program.  I had narrowed it down to two schools - the LRPRA preschool and one other local preschool.  LRPRA's preschool appeared to be more well-rounded in its activities and learning opportunities, and in preparation for kindergarten.  What finally "sold" me was the fact that I heard nothing but good things about the program.  My mother, who is a past LRPRA board president, told me that during her time on the board she received many positive reports from parents about the program.  A friend who is an elementary school teacher said that the children coming from the LRPRA preschool were generally better prepared for entering the structured environment of elementary school and excelled in their academics.  She said there was a notable difference between the LRPRA pre-school graduates and those of other preschools.  Nothing beats positive word of mouth "advertising" and opinions from other parents, and to me this spoke volumes as to how good the school is.My daughter has thrived at the preschool, academically and socially.  Her teachers are excellent, and I have no complaints.  I am already looking forward to when my one year old son is old enough to attend the program as well. (Click Here for Website)

LITTLE HANDS PRESCHOOL (2 Reviews): 
14391 Minnieville Road, Woodbridge
We've had our youngest in Little Hands Preschool for the past two years and we love it!

This will be my sixth year at Little Hands (all three of my children will have been through here!) and I cannot say enough good things about it. The teachers are wonderful and the curriculum is the same as most other preschools. The other great thing is that they do have a class for early threes (2 and a 1/2 year olds), which is where we started with our oldest, and they also have a great Pre K class for those kids not quite ready to go to Kindergarten or who just miss the cut off. (Click Here for Website)

From the school: Registration forms will be considered "timely" through 2/1/13. The preschool lottery will be held on February 4th.  

LITTLE LAMBS VILLAGE PRESCHOOL:

We enrolled our child at Little Lambs after researching a variety of preschools in the area and having several educational professionals recommend it for our child.  They said its play-based, active learning approach with a staff who are supportive of children of differing backgrounds and abilities would be perfect for our child’s strengths and weaknesses.  And they were right! Our child had a poor experience at a previous preschool and was quite leery about the whole school experience.  He is a smart child who learned at a very young age how to tune out people who talk down to him.  The staff at Little Lambs has been warm and welcoming to our child, taking him in and showering him with love to bring him out of his shell.  He has changed from a sullen child who was unable to recite the alphabet to a bright and happy boy who can write his own name, finds letters in his world on a daily basis, and counts everything he can touch.  He talks about his friends constantly, and participates in classroom activities with gusto. We can’t say enough positive things about our experience at Little Lambs.  Other parents of children at the school talk about how it’s the hidden gem of preschools in Western Prince William County, and we wholeheartedly agree.  The learning experience, teaching ability, and administrative leadership are second to none. (Click Here for Website)

NIKKIS CHRISTIAN LEARNING CENTER:
Nikki's Christian Learning Center in Dale City is great. My kids will be more than ready for kindergarten. They know bible verses, celebrate holidays and truly care about the students. My kids love school and have flourished since September.

OLD BRIDGE PRESCHOOL (5 Reviews): 
Old Bridge Preschool, associated with Old Bridge Methodist Church, has been open for 4 years. Besides being a great preschool with very caring staff, the also have a mission of accepting students with special needs. They have special staff for students who qualify for services through the county, and although they aim for 30% special needs, they also do amazing things with typically developing children. Their academic program appropriately prepares students for kindergarten and helps them develop a love of learning. I have had a great experience with the school, with both of my children attending during the 4 years since the school has been open. I highly recommend Old Bridge Preschool. 

I am thrilled with Old Bridge Preschool in Woodbridge. The staff Is so caring and very educated. The environment is fantastic as well. The school has so many activities for the children and families so you always feel involved! Though my son is not special needs the school does have a good program for those that need it. Being our first year of school we are very pleased and my son loves it! We'll be back next year too!

I wanted to share a review for Old Bridge Preschool. We've had a great experience so far! A few reasons why we like them: the teachers and staff members are very kind, student teacher ratio is 4:1, potty training is not required, they're an inclusion school with 20-30% special needs students, offer tuition assistance/ scholarships, and have opportunities for parent involvement/volunteering.The only downside is that they only offer 3hr classes, no full day program available.  

Our experience with Old Bridge Preschool this past year has been fantastic.  The staff is dedicated, friendly and truly caring.  The facility is clean, well organized, and a fun environment for learning and play.  Our son is currently enrolled in the 2 year old class.  He also has special needs, and the staff have gone out of their way to accommodate his learning and participation in both everyday learning as well as special events and activities.  He has come to love this school and his teachers, and can't stop talking about it when he's at home.  We will be sending our son here for the next two years and feel confident that he will be well prepared for the transition into kindergarten.  I recommend Old Bridge to all parents considering a preschool program.

Both of my kids have gone there and I can't say enough good things about the school and staff. We have loved every one of our teachers and both kids have learned so much through play that they didn't know they were in school. They also accept special needs children which really teaches the children compassion for others.  (Click Here for Website)

PRINCE WILLIAM ACADEMY (2 reviews):
Prince William Academy is a wonderful school. We currently have two children attending the school (toddler & Jr. K) & we have been more than happy with the quality of the education they have received. The school is NAEYC Accredited & has low student-teacher ratios, a well-rounded curriculum, qualified & caring teachers, flexible schedules & clean facilities. A testament to the school being so great is the joy our children have going to school each & every morning. If you're looking for a comprehensive program that offers creative outlets (art, music, play) & strong academics (language arts, math, science & languages), this is the school for you. We have been most impressed with the latter. Our Jr. Kindergartener is reading, writing & doing math at the Kindergarten level & we're considering testing her into 1st grade next year. This is a great school & would recommend it to anyone!
 
We had a horrible experience here and pulled our child out mid-year.  The program sounds so great on paper, but the classrooms are dirty and the teachers over-stretched without aids.  The preschoolers have indoor gym at the same time as older children and my child came home badly bruised one day when a 4th grader bowled them over and I didn't even recieve a note from the school or the teacher.  It's not worth the money. (Click Here for Website)

RIVERVIEW BAPTIST DAY SCHOOL:
Riverview Baptist Day School in Woodbridge. They offered different day options for parents which was nice, they have a dresscode of navy or burgundy polos and khaki or navy pants/skirts I liked this too, I know some parents may not. The staff was friendly and so was the director and their "nurse" was accommodating (my daughter has epilepsy). However my daughter absolutely hated the school and would wake up in the middle of the night begging me to not make her go back, she would never tell me why she hated it so much, but she had nightmares. It got so bad that she was having panic attacks in the middle of the day on the weekends that led to full blown asthma attacks, I tried asking her teacher for help but she tried to tell me it was normal for kids and just separation anxiety. I went along with it for maybe five weeks before I couldn't do it to my daughter any longer and pulled her out. She has been terrified of the idea of school since. And to put it in perspective my daughter is not super clingy and goes to daycare during the day so it wasn't her first time away from me by any means.  

RUSSELL ELEMENTARY (MCB QUANTICO) PRE-K PROGRAM:
My eldest has really enjoyed the 1/2 day, 5 day-a-week program for 4 year-olds offered by Russell Elementary School aboard MCB Quantico.  Each of the two classrooms fits 16, and there are three teachers permanently assigned to each class.  That makes for a great teacher:student ratio and provides ample attention to each student.  There are "out of classroom" classes, including art, P.E., and computers.  The class is run on a routine, and my eldest really gets into it.  She especially enjoys the big and small group times, where she can choose from a variety of activities provided by the teachers.  The school staff is a pleasant crew, and there are ample opportunities to volunteer in the classroom.  This is a good first look at "real" school (e.g., all the fundraisers, PTA, expenses, etc.), and I've appreciated getting my feet wet slowly.  Finally, there is a bus that picks up the kids. Only students from the same grade ride, and there is a teacher aboard the enter time to supervise seatbelting and that the proper adult is picking the students up.  It's a great program, and I'm thankful to have it. (Click Here for Website)

 SEVEN OAKS ACADEMY:
My son goes there, and he loved it from day one.  He is 4 and can already read a little bit.  They actually teach them there, not just babysit them.  The teachers are 'real' teachers, with degrees and certificates, and each class has it's own room with a door.  This is all great to me because he used to go to (other school name deleted) which is crap compared to this place.  He gets a newsletter sent home once a month with 'homework' and it tells the parents what they are working on, and helpful print outs to use at home, like sight words and refrigerator stories.  The preschool is from 9-12:30am I believe, but my son does go full time from 9-5:30pm.  But the actual 'school' part of the day mostly takes place in the morning before lunch.  They offer full time and part time preschool (you can choose 5 days a week or 3 days a week, but they only offer morning preschool, not afternoon).  They are affordable compared to other places, and offer morning snack, lunch, and afternoon snack..  Their summer camp is GREAT, lots of field trips (about 2 times a week) and other fun activities for a reasonable summer fee.  (Click Here for Website) 

ST. MATTHEWS DAY SCHOOL (3 Reviews):
We love St. Matthews and feel like it is everything a preschool program should be.  It is structured enough for the kids to feel secure, free enough for them to explore, and loving so they feel safe in their first school experience.  We love that there is a carpool line because with a preschooler and a new baby this past year it was great not to have to get out of the car in the rain or snow with the baby! St. Matthew's was the only school we looked at because on our tour, our child walked right in and acted like they'd been in class there since day 1.  It's been great and we're military so we're not sure when we'll have to leave, but we'd be very happy if our youngest child was able to go here, too.

St. Matthew's Lutheran Day School in Lake Ridge has been wonderful for our Pre-K child. Great teachers and a wonderful environment.

Pros:Teachers seemed awesome and school seemed well-organized.  Cons: No handwashing (just wipes), no snacktime at a table (they eat on the floor,) no walk-in drop-off or pick-up, open/mixed classrooms. (Click Here for Website)


ST. PAUL'S SCHOOL/MDO (3 Reviews):
Loved the mom's day out program at St. Paul's in Haymarket.  The lead teacher there is amazingly loving and great with the kids!

We came to St Paul’s based solely on its reputation in the area.  We were new to the area, and everyone told us it was “the best” academically and “guaranteed” placement in the Gifted program once the children moved to PW schools.  As parents of extremely bright students, it seemed to be a great fit.  Unfortunately, the school did not work well for our children at all.  In fact, it was extremely detrimental to our children and we’ve spent the ensuing months trying to fix the problems caused.What didn’t work for our children was St Paul’s insistence on rote teaching.  The children come in, sit down, and are instructed/lectured for most of the day.  They are given worksheets to reinforce the lessons, and are expected to quietly fill in the worksheets at their tables.  There is very little collaborative learning amongst the children – even during playtime, the children each choose a toy and play quietly by themselves.  They don’t interact, play together, pretend or share things between each other.  There is almost no gross motor play/exploration/learning, as there quite simply is no room on the campus.  The classrooms are extremely small and have no room for typical preschool things like centers or active pretend play.  The outdoor play area is extremely small and very limited in activities.  Arts & crafts, a preschool mainstay, are virtually non-existent.  So are teaching methods such as sensory play and manipulatives.  You learn to count by repeating what the teacher says and writing numbers repeatedly, not by counting physical objects.  You learn your letters by writing them over and over again with a pencil on paper, not by acting out the letters, drawing them with a variety of media, or exploring how they start different words with different sounds. If the children do not learn well by rote teaching, there is no personalization of lessons to a child.  There is no time taken to determine if a different learning/teaching style would reach the child, if something could be explained differently. The child is simply labeled as unteachable, a trouble maker, or just left behind while the rest of the class goes on.  Our children learned virtually nothing in their time at St Paul’s, and are now playing catch-up to their peers who were able to learn the basics of letters and numbers in other environments.



We've been extremely happy with the PreK program at St. Paul's and highly recommend the school! (Click Here for Website)




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Manassas Blaze 14U Softball

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Published: 01/02/2013
The Manassas Blaze 14U Red is looking for players for their fastpitch softball team.  Contact information for the 2012/2013 season is below.  



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Nutella Breakfast Tour Woodbridge

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Published: 12/20/2012



POTOMAC MILLS TO HOST NUTELLA BREAKFAST TOUR TRUCK FILLED WITH 5,000 JARS OF FREE NUTELLA® ON DECEMBER 23*

Woodbridge, VA Announced as Winners of Nutella® City Challenge

WHAT:                 Residents of Woodbridge, VA will be awarded five thousand (13 oz.) jars of free Nutella hazelnut spread and a visit from the Nutella Breakfast Tour Truck this December as winners of the nationwide Nutella Tour City Challenge.  The truck will be making one last stop in the winning city to spread the love at Potomac Mills on December 23 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., just in time for the holidays.
                                The Nutella Breakfast Tour Truck visited 12 cities across the country from September to December encouraging fans to tweet their favorite way to wake up with Nutella.  Woodbridge, VA posted the most eligible tweets, winning the top prize, a special visit from the Nutella Breakfast Tour Truck filled with free Nutella.
Local residents are invited to come out to celebrate the holidays and claim their free jar of Nutella while supplies last. Fans can also take a picture next to the giant inflatable Nutella® jar, enjoy festive music and spread some holiday cheer.
For more information and Official Rules for the Nutella Tour City Challenge, visit the Nutella USA Facebook page at www.facebook.com/NutellaUSA

WHEN:                 Sunday, December 23, 2012
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

WHERE:               Potomac Mills (Parking lot near Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH and jcpenney)
Woodbridge, VA


* Handing out up to 5,000 13 oz. jars while supplies last.

About Nutella
Nutella® was first imported from Italy to the U.S. over 25 years ago by Ferrero U.S.A., Inc. The popularity of Nutella® has grown steadily over the years and it is the number one selling branded hazelnut spread in America.

Nutella® is a tasty hazelnut spread that gets its unique taste from the combination of hazelnuts, skim milk and a hint of cocoa.   In addition, Nutella® has no artificial colors or preservatives. It can be found in grocery stores, warehouse clubs and mass merchandisers and is generally found near the peanut butter and sweet spreads section. 

When used in moderation with complementary foods such as a glass of milk, piece of fruit or a glass of orange juice, and spread on whole grain toast, Nutella® can turn a balanced breakfast into a tasty one too.  It can be a quick and easy way to encourage kids to eat whole grains, such as whole wheat toast, English muffins, toaster waffles and bagels.  Nutella®.  Breakfast never tasted this good®.
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12 Days of Giveaways: Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

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Published: 12/14/2012
 We're 12 Days Away from Christmas, so I want to hit you guys with a few giveaway items!! First up, I've got a $25 gift card to Firebirds Wood Fired Grill in Woodbridge.  This fairly new restaurant is located in my favorite place- Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center.  Love Love Love :) The restaurant had us for a preview meal, and they've got a pretty amazing children's menu.  My son got the children's salmon, and I'm not a seafood lover, but his fish was awesome.  I really appreciated that there were some exciting and healthier grilled items, in addition to standbys like burgers.  If it were me, though, I would probably choose Firebirds for a great date night.  Nobody minded our children, and the volume level in the restaurant is that magical point where you can hear the people at your table but there's enough background noise to mask your children bemoaning the fact that someone else is currently using the ketchup ;)
The restaurant is beautiful inside, I love the waterfall concept bar display, the wine bottle wall, the stone and the fireplace.  There is definitely tons of ambiance.  Entrees include steaks, fish, chicken, pastas, and some delicious sounding salads.  Yelp rates the restaurant between $$ (moderate) and $$$ (pricey).

Want to head to Firebirds for your own date night or happy hour? (It's so cozy and sleek inside-  it'd be a beautiful place to meet up with girlfriends for a special drink!) Check out the Rafflecopter below and enter to win!! I'll be drawing all the winners for these contests on Christmas Day- my way of giving some presents to you guys :)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

We were able to try a meal at Firebirds before offering this giveaway, also provided by Firebirds.  Winner assumes all liability.  All photo credits are to the Firebirds Facebook Page.
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Special Offer From Prince William Ice Center

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Published: 12/07/2012
When the holiday season comes, sometimes budgets get a little tight.  That means that some of the fun winter activities we all enjoy can get put on hold until January.  Prince William Ice Center is offering some fun at a discount price for PwcMoms readers with a Buy One Get One Free on skating! Note that you'll actually need to PRINT THIS OUT and take it with you- you can't just show them on your phone.  These BOGO's are good through December 31st and are not valid with any other offer. You can check out their Public Skating Schedule for times.
If your little skater loves public skating, then why not take it one step further and purchase some lessons? I love giving my children lessons/activities as gifts because they don't take up any more room in the toy closet, and a sport or skill is something they'll never outgrow! If you want something to open, head to the Prince William Ice Center Pro Shop and pick up some gloves, an ornament, or even skates! Hockey Equipment rental is available, and lessons are a great value, especially since students in group lessons receive a pass for one public session each week so that they can practice their skills! Classes are available for all ages and ability levels.  When you register, be sure to let them know you're a PwcMoms reader, because I've got another deal for you!  10% off the January/February Learn to Skate or Learn to Play Hockey Series!! For this deal, you must reigster by January 5, 2013, but again, these lessons would be such a great gift for someone in your life who's itching to get on the ice!


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Delegate Anderson to host "Future Delegates" Program

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Published: 11/13/2012

Dear Prince William parents and students,
 
At 7:30pm on Wednesday, Nov. 14th, we will host an orientation for parents and students in grades 7 through 12 who want to participate in the 2013 51st House District “Future Delegate Program” that we will host at the Virginia State Capitol in January and February.  The orientation will be in the Board of County Supervisors chamber at the McCoart Government Complex at One County Complex Court in Woodbridge. 
 
During the orientation session on Nov. 14th, I’ll brief applicants and their parents on the program, distribute application forms, and answer questions.  Additionally, I’ll brief parents on the House of Delegates Page Program in 2014 so that interested students may apply in late 2013 for the two-month-long Page Program at the Virginia State Capitol in early 2014.
 
If selected for the Future Delegate Program, students will spend an entire day with me at the Virginia State Capitol.  Students will accompany me to all sub-committee and committee meetings, press events, and the daily floor session of the Virginia House of Delegates. They will also have an opportunity to meet senior officials of the executive and legislative branches of Virginia state government.
 
All students who apply for the 2013 Future Delegate Program will be able to participate on a date that is convenient to the student’s family.  The day will provide each student with a first-hand look at the legislative process in Richmond. All students are encouraged to apply and participate, regardless of party affiliation or viewpoint on matters of public policy.
 
AND IF YOU LIVE IN PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY AND KNOW OF STUDENTS IN GRADES 7-12 WHO MAY BE INTERESTED IN THIS NEW PROGRAM, PLEASE FORWARD THIS INVITATION TO THEM.  We are able to host a total of 68 students during the forthcoming session of the Virginia General Assembly!
 
I look forward to seeing students and parents this coming Wednesday, Nov, 14th, at 7:30pm in the Board of County Supervisors chamber at the McCoart Government Building on Prince William Parkway.  To discuss the 2013 Future Delegate Program before or after the orientation, parents and students may contact me at DelRAnderson@house.virginia.govor at 571-264-9983.
 
And if I can ever assist you in any way, please call our legislative district office at 571-264-9983, or if your need is urgent and can’t wait until the next business day, at my Woodbridge home at 703-730-1380.  We’re here to help and are as close as your keyboard or phone!
 
Warm regards,
RICHARD L. ANDERSON
Delegate, 51st House District
                                                         Virginia General Assembly
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"Caring Santa" returns to Potomac Mills

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Published: 11/09/2012
EXCLUSIVE “CARING SANTA” EVENT TO BE HELD FOR FAMILIES AFFECTED BY AUTISM AT POTOMAC MILLS ON DECEMBER 9
WHAT: The hustle and bustle of the holiday season can be overwhelming for the estimated six out of every 1,000 children diagnosed with autism. To help those children enjoy an important part of the holiday experience, Potomac Mills, along with WorldWide Photography, will host an exclusive sensory-friendly Santa meet and greet experience for families of those affected by autism or a sensory processing disorder. This unique “Caring Santa” event will allow children to enjoy one of the holiday’s joyous memories – taking a photo on Santa’s lap.
For the event, the lights around the Santa set will be dim and staff will be instructed to avoid loud, distracting movements. In addition, families will not have to wait in line, but will sign in and be called when it is their turn. Children will be provided with complimentary coloring sheets while they wait.
WHEN: Sunday, December 9
9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
WHERE: Potomac Mills (Fashion Court – Neighborhood 1)
2700 Potomac Mills Circle
Woodbridge, VA 22192

COST: Visits with Santa are free; photo packages will be available for purchase
FOR MORE
INFO: Call Guest Services at (703) 496-9330, visit www.potomacmills.com or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PotomacMills.
 


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Welcome to Prince William County! The Cheesecake Factory!

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Published: 11/09/2012
I want to have an entire series of posts called "The Classy-fication of Hoodbridge" but I know you guys very seldom enjoy my humor about that, so I'm going to refrain....aside from just writing it here....so yeah.
Anyway, The Cheesecake Factory with their MASSIVE menu and MASSIVE portions and Godiva Chocolate Cheesecake that you can only eat one bite of because the entire piece is like a series of mashed-together truffle-y goodness has come to Prince William County!  You'll find them located at Potomac Mills Mall outlying by the AMC Theatres side.
The restaurant is having its grand opening on Sunday, November 11th, but they had invited me out to see what the restaurant is all about.  I was so excited!

And then I woke up sick.

So. Not. Cool.
Rather than start a health crisis, I found some back-up reviewers to go for me.  Amanda Long from Prince William County Children's Choir and Jennifer Clifton from Pillar Church in Dumfries were able to go for me and get the scoop.
And by scoop, I mean tasty tasty preview meal. Wrote Amanda:
"We had a lovely time.  The food was extraordinary!"
That about sums it up.  Cheesecake Factory- Lovely Time, Extraordinary Food.  If you're planning to go, do plan to wait for a table, especially if you're bringing a larger party.
 Also to note, The Cheesecake Factory makes meals that are ideal for sharing, even the salads.  Cheesecake travels home very well (because I've never been and had room for desert even though I always split my meal and never even finish half of it!), just ask your server for your cake to-go! While you're at it, they also offer their sauces in Mason Jars to-go, so you can cook up your favorites at home! There's also a new "lighter" menu available with portions listed by number of calories, if you're trying to be good!

The very fabulous Andrea from NovaHousewives.com also went to check out The Cheesecake Factory here in Prince William County, and if you'd like her tips and behind the scenes pictures, you can find them here.

The Cheesecake Factory Potomac Mills says this about themselves:
The Cheesecake Factory menu features more than 200 menu selections made fresh from scratch each day using only the highest quality ingredients. We have expanded our offerings with a low calorie menu aptly named SkinnyLicious™. Redefining low calorie flavor, the SkinnyLicious™ menu provides guests with even more choices. The Cheesecake Factory is famous for generous portions which are ideal for sharing or taking home – but be sure to save room to enjoy one of 50 legendary cheesecakes and specialty desserts. The Cheesecake Factory gladly honors requests to modify your order to suit specific health or dietary needs. Enjoy our high-energy atmosphere seven days a week, serving appetizers, lunch, dinner, late night dining, full bar, Sunday brunch, and Curbside To-Go service. Our passion for food drives us to deliver delicious food to all of our guests. That’s why we only use fresh ingredients to make everything from scratch daily in each of our restaurants – just like you would at home in your own kitchen.

The Cheesecake Factory's hours will be Monday-Thursday from 11:30am-11:00pm, Friday and Saturday from 11:30am-12:30am, and Sunday from 10:00am-11:00pm.  They do have a brunch menu!

Want to go? How about a date night? The Cheesecake Factory is offering a PwcMoms Reader a $25 gift card for their first meal at The Cheesecake Factory here in Woodbridge!

Enter using the Rafflecopter!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Good Luck!

Thanks to The Cheesecake Factory for the fun giveaway, and for inviting PwcMoms out for a preview.  Obviously all opinions are our own.  PwcMoms.com is not responsible for your skinny jeans not fitting if you develop an addiction to Godiva Chocolate Cheesecake. Not our fault.
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Winter and Christmas 2012

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Published: 11/07/2012
Looking for family-friendly or kid-friendly Winter and Christmas events? Here's what I know about happening in Prince William County this year!! Please share this link with your religious groups and community organizations, because I'm more than happy to keep adding!

November 10th Santa's Old Bridge Parade will run from Lake Ridge Middle School to the Exxon at the corner of Old Bridge and Smoketown Roads. 10am start time.

November 18th Santa Breakfast and Craft Fair at St. Benedict Monastery in Bristow Don't miss the annual Holyday/Holiday Sale at the St. Benedict Monastery. Unique gifts and handcrafted items made by the Sisters, Oblates and friends as well as homemade goodies from the Monastery pantry -- jams, jellies and breads. Holiday decorations including advent wreaths, exquisite ornaments and roping. Be sure to join us on Saturday for complimentary wine tasting. Santa joins the fun on Sunday for a pancake breakfast. 9535 Linton Hall Road, Bristow VA 703-361-0106


November 18th from 2-4pm, Gainesville Ballet School and Tea Time Tea Room will host a Nutcracker Tea Party.  Tickets are $15 and available online. 




















  • November 23rd, 2012 at 7:00 pm, the Hylton Performing Arts Center presents "All I Want for Christmas". When a letter arrives at the North Pole infected with the highly contagous "Gimme! Gimme! Flu Virus", chaos ensues. Will the elves conquer the flu? Will they get the toys ready in time? From the treasured holiday favorites to thilling new discoveries around every corner, a tale that twists and entertains as it transports you from the exciting lights of New York City to the charm of Santa's workshop at the North Pole. Kick off the holiday season with Encore Theatrical Arts Project's "All I Want For Christmas". This enchanting song and dance extravaganza is a delight for all audiences young and old alike. Tickets are available online.

November 23rd at Pump It Up Manassas- Looking for a fun night out after too much turkey? House full of family & friends that you need to entertain? We'll have DJ Derrick with the tunes, Karaoke, GLOW, plenty of playtime, pizza dinner and a sweet treat to round out the night of fun! Special early bird pricing of 20% off until 11/18!

November 24th, 2012 at 1:00 pm, November 24, 2012 at 5:00 pm the Hylton Performing Arts Center presents "All I Want for Christmas". When a letter arrives at the North Pole infected with the highly contagous "Gimme! Gimme! Flu Virus", chaos ensues. Will the elves conquer the flu? Will they get the toys ready in time? From the treasured holiday favorites to thilling new discoveries around every corner, a tale that twists and entertains as it transports you from the exciting lights of New York City to the charm of Santa's workshop at the North Pole. Kick off the holiday season with Encore Theatrical Arts Project's "All I Want For Christmas". This enchanting song and dance extravaganza is a delight for all audiences young and old alike. Tickets are available online.

November 25th, the Hylton Performing Arts Center will present Chanticleer: A Chanticleer Christmas at 4:00pm. Tickets are avialable online.  (As a personal aside, I geek out on a cappella groups, so I highly recommend this concert.)

November 30th, Historic Manassas will host their annual Christmas Tree Lighting at 9101 Prince William Street (the Manassas Museum Lawn).  This event runs from 5:30-8pm.



















November 30th, you can float in the (Indoor) pool and watch "Arthur Christmas"which my favorite move review company (Common Sense Media) ranks as being good for ages 5 and up with no religious undertones (Santa Only).



 
November 30th, the Workhouse will host Arts on the Horizon's "Drumming with Dishes: The Holiday Edition", which is aimed at children ages 0-6 and runs 35 minutes.  Details and tickets on their website.

December 1st, Old Town Manassas will host its annual Christmas Parade at 10am. For more details or a map, visit their website here. 

December 1st at 8pm, the Hylton Performing Arts Center will feature Dailey & Vincent: A Bluegrass Christmas.  Tickets are available online. 

December 1st, the Workhouse will host Arts on the Horizon's "Drumming with Dishes: The Holiday Edition", which is aimed at children ages 0-6 and runs 35 minutes. Details and tickets on their website.

December 1st, Town of Dumfries invites you to join us for an evening of fun decorating the Town’s Christmas tree, holiday poetry readings, caroling, and spreading Holiday Cheer with Santa! Join us at the Christmas Tree Lighting on Saturday, December 1st from 5pm-7pm at Garrison, behind Town Hall (17755 Main Street, Dumfries, VA 22026).
December 2nd, Old Town Manassas will have decorations and open houses at all the shops from 12-5pm.  There will be refreshments in every store, entertainment in several, and Santa will be on the walkway for pictures.  Free carriage rides will leave from the Train Depot from 1-4pm. 

December 2nd, the Workhouse will host Arts on the Horizon's "Drumming with Dishes: The Holiday Edition", which is aimed at children ages 0-6 and runs 35 minutes. Details and tickets on their website.

December 6th at 8pm, the Hylton Performing Arts Center will present "Swing Machine Big Band Christmas Celebration".  Tickets are available online. 



December 6th, Manassas Park Community Center will offer a decorate your own ornament craft.  $3/pp all supplies provided. 



















December 7th at 8pm, the Hylton Performing Arts Center presents "Natalie MacMaster: Christmas in Cape Breton".  Tickets are available online.

December 7th, the Workhouse will host Arts on the Horizon's "Drumming with Dishes: The Holiday Edition", which is aimed at children ages 0-6 and runs 35 minutes. Details and tickets on their website.

December 8th- 5:45-7pm Manassas Parks and Recreation will host a Light Parade



















December 8th- A 1940s Christmas will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.at Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge. What were holiday celebrations like during World War II? The Ellis family hosted many a party here at the Lodge during the war. Join in for music, refreshments and holiday crafts for kids. Dress for the weather. Call 703-499-9812 or visit www.pwcgov.org/historicpreservation. Cost is $7, children under 6 free.

December 8th from 11am-4pm, the History of Santa Claus and the Gift Giver at Rippon Lodge Historic Site, 15520 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge. Learn about the customs and traditions of this mysterious fellow who brings gifts to children. Crafts, games and stories will be offered throughout the day. Call 703-499-9812 or visit www.pwcgov.org/historicpreservation. Cost is $7.


December 8th from 9am-3pm, OBUMC Women's Bible Study will offer a craft fair at Tiptoe Eagle HAll (13456 Minnieville Road Woodbridge) 


December 8th at 8:30am, come meet Santa while enjoying breakfast, games, and arts & crafts! This is a non-religious community event open to everyone. Gainesville United Methodist Church (13710 Milestone Ct Gainesville, VA 20155) Free event for ages 0-12 years. Sponsored by Patriot High School Leadership Class in partnership with Gainesville United Methodist Church and The Arc of Greater Prince William.

December 8th Chick-fil-A Warrenton (256 West Lee Highway, Warrenton) will host a breakfast with Santa from 8:30-10:30am.  Each child will recieve a treat from Santa and from the CFA Cow.  



December 8th from 9am-3pm Gar-Field High School, located at 14000 Smoketown Road in Woodbridge will host its 28th annual Holiday Craft Show. The show will be held indoors and features over 150 spaces of homemade craft and food items and benefits the music department. 

December 8th, the Workhouse will host Arts on the Horizon's "Drumming with Dishes: The Holiday Edition", which is aimed at children ages 0-6 and runs 35 minutes. Details and tickets on their website.
December 8th The Town of Dumfries invites you to join us for our “38th Annual Christmas-Holiday Parade!” The parade will begin promptly at 1pm at Town Hall (17755 Main Street, Dumfries, VA 22026), and will end in the far end of Dumfries Shopping Plaza-where we will have a festive area featuring a DJ in the Showmobile, time for pictures with Santa, and parade winners will be announced here! Bring the family and join us for our annual parade!




















December 8th at 5:00pm and 8:00pm, the Manassas Chorale will present "Glorious Noel" at the Hylton Performing Arts Center.  Tickets are available online. 

December 8th from 1:00-2:30pm, Edgemoor Art Studio will offer a Chocolate Sculpting Class for ages 4-6. The class is $35 and all materials are provided. 

December 8th at 3pm, the Nokesville Ruritans will offer their annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting, which Delegate Anderson touts as the best in PWC. 

December 8th at 5pm, Gainesville Ballet School presents their annual Children's Nutcracker at Battlefield High School (15000 Graduation Drive, Haymarket VA 20169) Tickets are available online. 



















December 8th from 4:00-6:00pm, Edgemoor Art Studio will offer a Chocolate Sculpting Class for ages 7 and up. The class is $45 and all materials are provided. 

December 8th from 11am-3pm build a Gingerbread House at Leesylvania State Park and support "Trevor's Treasures". Build a holiday memory by donating a toy for a good cause and decorating gingerbread houses, a sweet tradition for all ages. All proceeds will go to Trevor's Treasures (http://trevorstreasures.org). We ask that there are no stuffed animals and prefer packaged toys so that they can be wiped down prior to entering the Pediatric Oncology Unit.

December 8th at 7pm, The Prince William County Children's Choir and New Dominion Choraliers will offer a Christmas Performance.  Adults are $15 and children are $5.  Tickets will be available at the door.  Hylton Memorial Chapel 14640 Potomac Mills Road Woodbridge, VA 22192

December 8th from 5-7pm Kick off the holidays with a tree lighting, music and refreshments at historic Lucasville School (10516 Godwin Drive Manassas). Lucasville is a reconstructed one-room school house used to interpret post- Civil War African American education in the community. Tour the facility and also listen while the Christmas classic "Twas the night before Christmas" is read. Staff will also be on hand to collect donations for Toys for Tots. Parking is available on Godwin Drive. Please arrive a few minutes before the  5 p.m. tree lighting event. Rain date: Dec. 15

December 8th Pink Bicycle Tea Room will host breakfast with Santa.  Reservations required.

December 9th Pink Bicycle Tea Room will host breakfast with Santa. Reservations required.

December 9th at 7pm, The Prince William County Children's Choir and New Dominion Choraliers will offer a Christmas Performance. Adults are $15 and children are $5. Tickets will be available at the door. Hylton Memorial Chapel 14640 Potomac Mills Road Woodbridge, VA 22192

December 9th, the Workhouse will host Arts on the Horizon's "Drumming with Dishes: The Holiday Edition", which is aimed at children ages 0-6 and runs 35 minutes. Details and tickets on their website.

December 9th Good Shepherd United Methodist Church (13999 Birchdale Avenue Dale City) will offer a "Night in Bethlehem" from 6pm to 8pm.  This event has a $5 per family donation requested. 























December 9th Potomac Mills Mall will offer a "Caring Santa" experience for children with sensory sensitivity issues. Details here. 

December 9th, Free carriage rides will leave from the Train Depot in Old Town Manassas from 1-4pm. 

December 9th at 3:30pm and 7:30pm, the Hylton Performing Arts Center will present the Asaph Dance Ensemble's "Clara's Christmas".  Tickets are available online.

December 10th and 17th (2 part class), Edgemoor Art Studio will offer a Holiday Ornament Class for ages 4-6. The class is $40 and all materials are provided. 

December 14th at 7:30 pm, the Manassas Ballet Theatre will present "The Nutcracker" at the Hylton Performing Arts Center.  Tickets are available online. 

December 15th at 3:00 pm, the Manassas Ballet Theatre will present "The Nutcracker" at the Hylton Performing Arts Center.  Tickets are available online. 

December 15th and 20th (2 part class), Edgemoor Art Studio will offer a Holiday Ornament Class for ages 7 and up. The class is $40 and all materials are provided. 

December 19th from 5:00-7:00pm, Edgemoor Art Studio will offer a Chocolate Sculpting Class for ages 7 and up. The class is $45 and all materials are provided. 

December 21st at 8:00pm the Hylton Performing Arts Center presents Pops: Songs of the Season.  Tickets are available online. 

December 22nd at 7:30 pm, the Manassas Ballet Theatre will present "The Nutcracker" at the Hylton Performing Arts Center.  Tickets are available online. 

December 23rd at 3:00 pm, the Manassas Ballet Theatre will present "The Nutcracker" at the Hylton Performing Arts Center.  Tickets are available online. 

December 24th Children's Services:
Good Shepherd United Methodist (14999 Birchdale Ave Dale City) will offer a 6pm Family Service and Birthday Party for Jesus, games & birthday cake will begin the evening.  Please bring a new baby item as your gift to baby Jesus.  We will then have a family friendly worship service in our sanctuary with hands on music & message.  Our special time will conclude with Silent Night sung with glow sticks you get to keep.  No childcare available because we want all the children in worship to celebrate Jesus birthday!  Adult services will be at 8pm (nursery available) and 11pm (no childcare)



Willing to leave PWC? Check out my friend SuperNovaMommy's Guide for Fairfax/Lorton
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Trick or Treating in Prince William County

Permalink to Trick%20or%20Treating%20in%20Prince%20William%20County
Published: 10/30/2012
Many of you have asked what day and time Prince William County trick or treating is.  Apparently in some parts of the country they change trick-or-treat to be a weekend night each year so that children aren't tripped out on candy and less sleep than normal on a school night.

Please, we know how much our teachers love overtired children with a sugar buzz ;)

In Prince William County (with possible exceptions if you live in a neighborhood with a home owners association) whether you're in Woodbridge, Gainesville, Haymarket, or Lake Ridge, trick-or-treat happens on October 31st, regardless of the day of the week, from dusk to 9pm.  As a general courtesy, and for safety reasons, only knock on doors that have well-lit porches and interiors.  

The Department of Fire and Rescue reminds you that when trick-or-treating:
Child Pedestrians
• Children under 12 should trick-or-treat and cross streets with an adult.
• Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible.
• Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks. Parents should remind children to watch for cars that are turning or backing up.
• Look left, right and left again when crossing and keep looking as you cross. Walk, don’t run, across the street.

Drivers
• Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods. Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways.
• Anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic and turn your headlights on earlier in the day so you can spot children from greater distances.
• Remember costumes can limit children’s visibility and they may not be able to see your vehicle.
• Reduce any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings.

If you would rather not trick-or-treat in your neighborhood, there are several local churches and areas that typically offer trunk or treat options on halloween night (but check their website to make sure):
~First Baptist Church of Woodbridge (not in 2012)
~Potomac Mills Mall beginning at 6pm
~Christ Chapel (not in 2012)
~ Manassas St. Thomas  (appears to be on- 6:30pm)
~Manassas Baptist (appears to be on- 6pm)
~First Nazarene Woodbridge (appears to be on- 7pm)

If you'd like to add your church or location to the list, please just shoot me an email. 
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