Neighborhood news: Seniors, learn to immerse yourself in technology

Are your grandchildren leaving you in the technology dust? Join the Lifelong Learning Institute-Manassas for a "Technology Immersion" class sponsored by Best Buy, Gainesville.

Today's communication and entertainment technology is exploding and can be confusing.

Television screens no thicker than a little finger, mp3 devices and iPods, cellular phones, compact video cameras … the list is exhausting and the technology all seems to connect somehow to the Internet.

Instructor Elizabeth Greaves and the Best Buy crew will help you understand technology by getting you up close and personal with the latest innovations.

This course will cover HDTVs, cordless and cell phones, digital cameras, HD and satellite radios and many digital games including the Wii.

Elizabeth Greaves started her career in retail sales upon graduating from Virginia Tech. Three years ago, she was hired by Best Buy at the general manager level. When the Gainesville store opened in November 2007, she was made store manager.

Recognizing that the array of electronic products is often confusing, Greaves has developed numerous outreach programs that the Best Buy staff uses to help customers make more informed decisions.

The classes will run Tuesdays from 8:30 to10 a.m., Sept. 22 and 29; Oct. 6 and 13. Space is limited.

Get more information by contacting LLI-Manassas Coordinator Perley Eaton at 703-795-1923 or e-mail llimanas-sas@gmail.com.

Gainesville volunteer group donates school supplies

Democratic candidate John Bell, running in the 13th District Virginia House of Delegates, and volunteers from The Gainesville Group have delivered 48 backpacks, more than 200 spiral and three-ring notebooks and multiple boxes of other school supplies to SERVE, a Manassas-based organization assisting the disadvantaged.

Bell said, "SERVE is a great organization that I fully support. They run an ideal community outreach program that is essential, especially in the tough economic times we face today. We as a society need to do more to support organizations like SERVE and others who care for those in need."

Bell also commended TGG for their efforts in putting together the successful effort on behalf of area school chil-dren. "The Gainesville group is making a difference in our community every day," he said.

Carl Genther, director of TGG said, "All of us in The Gainesville Group appreciate John taking time from his busy campaign schedule to help our effort. It made a real difference to our success."

Made up of Democratic volunteers from western Prince William County, TGG meets on the second Monday of each month at the Taste of Asian restaurant in Gainesville.

For additional information, e-mail them at thegainesvillegroup@gmail.com or visit www.thegainesvillegroup.org.

A happy 75th birthday to Gloria Moscatello

A very happy birthday goes out to Gloria Moscatello of Heritage Hunt, who turns 75 today. Her family wishes her all the best and looks forward to celebrating with her at home.

Katherine Gotthardt reports your neighborhood news from the Gainesville and Haymarket area every Wednesday in the News & Messenger. If you have news about birthdays, your family, your club or your HOA's activities, please send it to Katherine at kgotthardt@comcast.net.