Arts + Culture

Arm Chair Adventures

Embark on journeys through Loudoun and beyond from the cozy confines of your favorite chair Article by Jeanne Godfroy | Photography by Birch Tree Bookstore Feeling the urge to explore but strapped for time, cash, or energy? When weather or circumstances disrupt travel plans, a captivating read can offer an equally rewarding escape. Here are three fascinating works by local authors that ignite curiosity and fuel imagination, all available at Birch Tree Bookstore on West Market downtown.   In ...

June 2024

Education

How to Grow a Cave

Explore the Wonders of Luray Caverns This Summer Article by Bill Huffman | Photography by Luray Caverns 120 years. That is how long it takes just to grow one inch of Luray Caverns. But make no mistake, the caverns are growing. Like Luray Caverns, most caves result from a relatively straightforward process in nature, consisting of a layer of limestone, mildly acidic water and carbon dioxide multiplied over millions of years. In the case of Luray, the caverns began to take shape after...

June 2024

Home + Design

Building a Backyard Escape

An Outdoor Kitchen, Sports Court and Multiple Outdoor Pavilions Make Entertaining At Home Fun Article by Josh Kane | Photography by Kane Landscapes This Centreville home was purchased with an eye towards the best of both worlds: a larger than average property due to the lot's location, while still being in a friendly, close-knit neighborhood.  Kane Landscapes was engaged to design the entire property to allow for a simple family weekend, a large party or even a backyard wedding. The new...

June 2024

Education

YEA! Students Earn $5,000 in Awards

Loudoun's Kids Begin their Adventure in Entrepreneurship Article by Melinda Gipson | Photography by Marty Shoup, Blue Lion Multimedia Hyeyong Caitlynn Jeon, a 10th grader at Independence High School, took home the top prize in the Loudoun Young Entrepreneurs Academy’s 8th Annual Investor Pitch Competition. Her non-profit, AriAri, seeks to support children whose mothers have been diagnosed with breast cancer with age-appropriate books. Ari’s Journey , her first book, explains the different...

June 2024

Life + Culture

Celebrating Community Heroes:

Loudoun Cares Honors Volunteers for Exceptional Service Article by Emily Long | Photography by Alex Mangione Volunteering is a great way to explore how you can help your community. In a heartfelt ceremony that resonated with a spirit of gratitude and admiration, Loudoun County gathered in May to pay tribute to those unsung heroes who embody selflessness and servant-hearted commitment to volunteering. Among the recipients of this year's prestigious awards are individuals and teams who serve as...

June 2024

Professional Services

Makan Shirafkan: In Pursuit of Justice

Article by Melinda Gipson | Photography by Mary Lanaghan, Melinda Gipson “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8 In Makan Shirafkan’s office, as in many lawyers’ offices, is a standing statue of Lady Justice. Somewhat unique to Makan’s own display is the replica of The Cyrus Cylinder that lies at her feet. Makan is a proud Persian, one of many in our region who were part...

May 2024

Life + Culture

The Very Rev. Daniel Vélez-Rivera:

'Just a Street Preacher' Article by Melinda Gipson | Photography by St. Gabriel's Episcopal Church, Melinda Gipson People sometimes describe The Very Rev. Daniel Vélez-Rivera of Saint Gabriel's Episcopal Church ~ Iglesia San Gabriel, as a man without a church. To Father Daniel, “The church is not a building, but the people gathered in faith! In response to the question, ‘When will you build the church?’ we say, ‘We are building it each time we encounter people wherever we are.’” St. Gabriel’s...

May 2024

Food + Beverage

The Way to a Man's Heart

Caribbean Curry Chicken with Orange Jasmine Rice Article and Photography by Natalie Ramos I’ve always focused my energy into cooking fresh and healthy meals for my family, but some are real man pleasers. One of our family’s favorites is Caribbean Curry Chicken with Orange Jasmine Rice. It’s hearty and easy to prepare, using just one dish, but it also has a dash of the exotic. This meal will take you to the warmth of the Caribbean and fill your belly with smiles. Average price per...

May 2024

Home + Design

Elevating Elegance:

The Rise of Bourbon Rooms in Modern Homes Article by Lisa Steelman, Belissima Design Group | Photography by Lisa Steelman Step into a realm where tradition meets luxury—imagine your living room transformed into a bourbon room; anchored with moody colors, rich leathers, oversized chairs, and details that exude sophistication and comfort. Embracing the bourbon room aesthetic is more than a home improvement; it's a commitment to a lifestyle of understated elegance.  Rich leather chairs and...

May 2024

Life + Culture

Coming Full Circle

José Ayala Moves from Homelessness to Mentorship Through Mobile Hope Article by Christine Gacharná | Photography by Christine Gacharná, Allyson Ruscitella Six days a week, José Ayala stops for coffee on his way to work his two jobs. Sometimes, the 25-year-old splurges on a cookie. He arrives at the car wash where he’s paid to carry out the trash. It’s heavy, he explains, too heavy for the owners to lift. Cleaning the accessories and shoveling out dirt and mud from the concrete slab and drain...

May 2024