October 17, 2009 Area Shopping Centers Squeaky Clean – With Awards To Prove It

Old Bridge area residents have the convenience of living near the county’s three shopping centers that have been top-rated for cleanliness: Shops at County Center, Potomac Mills and Hoadly Market Place.

At a recent ceremony at Lake Ridge Park, shopping center representatives received Clean Shopping Center Awards from the Prince William Clean Community Council (PWCCC).

The awards which have been given annually, are based on the results of quarterly onsite surveys performed by PWCCC volunteers.

Shops at County Center – at Hoadly Road and Prince William Parkway – was judged tops for cleanliness of 60+ shopping centers that are partners with PWCCC.

The center, whose post office address is Galveston Court, Manassas, includes Harris Teeter, IHop, the Bead Shoppe, Amici’s Restaurant and LA Boxing, among its tenants. The property is managed by Regency Centers.

Debbie Fine, assistant property manager, noted that they work very hard to keep the shopping center in immaculate pristine condition. “We strive to contribute to the beautiful landscape here in Prince William County. We are honored to have received this award,” she enthused.

Second place went to Potomac Mills Mall, which has often been a winner in the 10+ years the Clean Shopping Center awards have been given, noted Brenda Evans, Director of PWCCC.

Potomac Mills Mall, one of Virginia’s top tourist attractions with its many name brand outlets, is managed by Simon Property Group.

“We strive to keep the mall and its surrounding in top notch condition. We constantly seek to maintain a clean and welcoming environment for the pleasure of all of the shoppers and local residents,” said Caroline Green, director of marketing.

Third Place went to Hoadly Market Place, which is located at Hoadly Rd. where it intersects with Dale Blvd. on one side and Purcell Rd. on the other. Among the tenants are Bloom, CVS and Pizza Hut, whose post office addresses are Manassas.

Properties are surveyed quarterly by volunteers, and the surveys are returned to the PWCCC, which contacts property managers with the results.

“Property managers appreciate the feedback they receive from the surveys. These partnerships are instrumental in the council’s fulfilling its mission of encouraging environmental stewardship. These surveys serve as an important tool to keep the county litter free,” said Evans, the PWCCC director.

The council holds the award event annually to recognize volunteers and members of the community who have been instrumental in keeping Prince William County clean and safe for all residents. At this year’s event, more than 40 volunteers were present, and 20 were recognized and honored for their service.

According to PWCCC press release, the council is an affiliate of Keep America Beautiful, Inc. a nonprofit organization dedicated to keeping the environment clean in Prince William County. The council started in 1982 as a spring cleanup effort and is a year-round comprehensive program that includes extensive community involvement, litter and graffiti prevention and environmental education.

The Council has an array of volunteer opportunities currently available for individuals, groups, youth, families and communities all designed to help keep our neighborhoods, shopping centers, schools and businesses clean and litter free.

“We have the full support of county government, and are fortunate to have people who are equally as dedicated to the cause working with us on projects,” explained Evans. “This program is a community partnership for a cleaner Prince William County environment. This annual cookout is a great way to thank those responsible for all of the dedicated volunteer involvement of businesses and residents who have taken part,” she added.

Virginia State Officials were honored, including Sen. George Barker, Delegate Paul Nichols, and Delegate Jackson Miller. The awards were presented by John Jenkins, Neabsco District Supervisor, for their efforts to improve the graffiti abatement process.

Mike May, Occoquan District Supervisor, and Marty Nohe, Coles District Supervisor, and U.S. Rep Gerry Connolly attended.

The Council honored program participants including the Adopt – A – Spot volunteers, Clean Shopping Center Surveyors, Graffiti Spotters and Removers, the Prince William County Litter Crew and the County Landfill.

The Council also presented its inaugural Volunteer of the Year Award to Connie Moser of Dale City. She has been volunteering for the council for over three years. Moser is on the board of directors of the council, volunteers as a graffiti spotter and works as a graffiti remover. She is working on a pilot program with the council and PWC Neighborhood Services to contact businesses and home owners who have had their property defaced by graffiti.

Evans reported, “The many volunteers who have all worked so hard to make this a reality deserve every bit of this appreciation and more. This is a beautiful county, and I am happy that the volunteers in this organization share in the enthusiasm and efforts to help keep it clean and safe. There are always volunteer opportunities available. Educating people is the first step in the process and after that, dedicated volunteerism seems to follow naturally. It makes me so proud to see all of the wonderful things the organization has accomplished.”