Neighborhood news: Love cooking? Become a 'master food volunteer'

In MANASSAS PARK ...

If you love cooking, learning about nutrition and wellness, and are interested in helping others, sign up today to become a Master Food Volunteer with Virginia Cooperative Extension. VCE Family and Consumer Sciences programs have long been a resource of research-based food and nutrition information for adults, parents, seniors and youth. They are committed to helping families enjoy delicious and nutritious food experiences, and are looking for passionate individuals to help in this effort.

Join the Master Food Volunteer program today. You will receive 30 hours of training in basic nutrition, healthy cooking techniques and food safety, with an opportunity to sample delicious recipes. In exchange, they ask that you complete 30 hours of volunteering within one year.

Through training you will become equipped with the knowledge and skills to confidently help others improve their lives through balanced eating and healthy living. Opportunities for volunteer work include food demonstrations and displays at health fairs or farmers markets, food preparation and food safety classes, assisting with nutrition education programs, or creating your own.

Training will take place Oct. 1, 8, 15 and 22 at the Fairview at River Club Church, 10835 Tidewater Trail, Fredericksburg, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Volunteers are required to attend all training dates. The cost to attend is $45 and includes lunch on all days, along with training materials and supplies. Applications are available and must be completed and returned by Friday.

For additional information or for an application, contact the Prince William Extension Office at 703-792-4764.

Blood drives

A blood drive will be held today from 2:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Bethel Lutheran Church, 8712 Plantation Lane, Manassas.

New Life Community Church will sponsor a blood drive Tuesday from 5 to 9 p.m. at Marstellar Middle School, 14000 Sudley Manor Drive, Bristow.

To make an appointment, call 1-800-272-0024.

In Manassas ...

Wednesday lunch concert

On Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., hear the music of Deep Crater Boys at the Harris Pavilion.

Bring your lunch and set up at tables and chairs that are provided. This is the last one for this summer.

Dance lessons

The Harris Pavilion will offer free dance lessons from John Hinkle on Saturday from 7:30 to 8 p.m.

Let's dance

On Saturday, enjoy dancing to the sounds of the Nitehawks from 8 to 11 p.m. This event is free and open to adults and is being held at the Harris Pavilion. Come and show your dancing skills.

OHS reunions

The Osbourn High School Class of 1974 will celebrate its 35th class reunion Saturday. Please contact Anna Marie Morgan at 703-791-6120 or at annamg5250@aol.com for additional information.

The OHS Class of 1989 will celebrate its 20th high school reunion Oct. 3 at the Dulles Holiday Inn. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www. osbourn89.com or contact Jennifer Cutting at fourcuttings@msn.com.

Last ice cream social

On Sunday the Harris Pavilion's will hold its last ice cream social. The NOVA Manassas Symphony will provide music. The free ice cream and music is from 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Happy birthday

Happy birthday on Wednesday to Belinda Boronkay, on Friday to Isaac Pleet, and on Saturday to Erin Travis.

H1N1 Web site

If you are worried about what is happening with the H1N1 flu, then go to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention Web site. This site is updated daily and has lots of information. You can give them your e-mail address and they will send you updates.

Brenda Facemire reports your neighborhood news from Manassas and Manassas Park every Monday in the News & Messenger. If you live in a Manassas neighborhood and have news about birthdays, your family, your club or your HOA activities, please send it to Brenda at brendafacemire@verizon.net. If you live in a Manassas Park neighborhood, please send your news to bfacemire@verizon.net.