Arts + Culture

Tracy Hamlin: No Limits

Local Jazz Singer, Producer Brings Sweet Jazz Fest to Loudoun April 19-20 Article by Michael Gauvreau | Photography by Crystale Vail Spearman, EyeImagery Never try to limit Tracy Hamlin.  As she puts it, “In the music business, you must be a Jack of All Trades. When record companies tried to put me in a box, they couldn’t. They asked, ‘What is she trying to be?’  I’m a singer! I deliver what the song calls for. I can sing country, jazz, R&B, Pop – you can’t put me in a box. So, I started my...

March 2024

Home Services

Investing in Residential Real Estate

Tips from a Realtor® and Certified Appraiser Article and Photography by JC Silvey So, you want to invest in residential real estate? Find a property that needs some cosmetic updates and purchase it at below market value. After doing some minor renovations, rent the property to create positive cash flow. Refinance within that year and pull out the additional equity to use as the down payment for your next property. Rinse and repeat! After 20 years, you’ll have a portfolio of residential...

March 2024

Arts + Culture

Maestro Kluge

Drawing Us All into LSO’s Orbit Article by Melinda Gipson | Photography by Melinda Gipson, Teak McAfee The People’s Conductor. Pied Piper. Bridge Builder. Passionate Performer. Hollywood Composer. It takes a multitude of monikers to try to describe Kim Allen Kluge, Loudoun Symphony Orchestra Music Director. In the end, he says he’s all about community and connectedness, seeing music as the string that binds humanity together.  Born in Madison, Wisconsin, he was raised in a small town outside...

March 2024

Arts + Culture

A Tale of Two Proposals

Not One but TWO Performing Arts Center Plans Take Center Stage Article by Melinda Gipson | Photography by MJL Studios, Burnett & Williams Five retired women living in Ashburn received a big Valentine when the County Administrator presented the proposed 2025 county budget to the Board of Supervisors (BOS) on February 14. The women, neighbors in the over-55 community of The Regency at Ashburn formed Citizens for the Arts in Eastern Loudoun County with the express purpose of persuading local...

March 2024

Finance + Legal Services

Insurance:

The Investment that Doubles as a Love Letter Article by Melinda Gipson | Photography by Anna Connors Anna Connors, owner of Connors Coverage Group says, “Part of why I got into providing insurance was a loss in our family. I don’t wish the experience on any parent, but if I can help people financially through difficult times in their lives, that gives me purpose.” Buying life insurance for yourself also can mean the world to grieving family members: “It’s like a love letter to your family at...

March 2024

Arts + Culture

"Quiet Terrors, Quiet Joys"

Artist Janelle Washington Cuts Deep to Reveal Strong Emotions Article and Photography by Melinda Gipson Through her prior career in fashion design, silhouette artist Janelle Washington was introduced to paper-cutting as a design tool. She soon realized, “I can use paper-cutting as a vehicle for my voice to come through and create things that are important to me.” The Guild of American Paper Cutters taught her what kinds of paper and tools to use and she began experimenting. She now draws...

March 2024

Home + Design

From Screens to Sunsets:

How Two Worlds Collided to Build Outdoor Dreams at Velero Deck Designs Article by Jaime Guerrero and Diego Osorio | Photography by Velero Deck Designs In the midst of a pandemic that reshaped lives and perspectives, one chance encounter forged a new beginning. Jaime Guerrero had seasoned expertise in home construction, having honed his craft across diverse projects, mastering the art of detailing and team leadership. Diego Osorio, was a veteran in information technology who was seeking solace...

February 2024

Home + Design

Sophisticated Splendor:

Enduring Blues, Rich Textures, Patterns, and Leathers Reshape the Essence of Design Article by Lisa Steelman, Bellissima Design Group | Photography by Lisa Steelman Departing from the prevalent white and grey trends, 2024 leads the interior decorator in all of us into a realm of indulgence. Rich leathers, dark blues, earthy greens, and vibrant upholstery redefine luxury. The 2024 Pantone color, "Peach Fuzz," seamlessly blends into wallpapers and textiles when combined with earthy tones...

February 2024

Professional Services

Building Trust with Your Home Builder

How to Set Expectations and Overcome Fears and Frustrations Article by Matthew Bowe, Alair Homes Hunt Country Building a custom home is a dream come true for many homeowners. It's an opportunity to create a space that perfectly aligns with their vision and needs. However, the journey from vision to reality is not always smooth sailing. When you decide to build your dream home, a premium should be placed on certain expectations. In this article, I'll delve into what we’ve seen homeowners want...

February 2024

Food + Beverage

Lemon Thyme Shortbread Cookies

Article by Natalie Ramos They say that “ home is where the heart is ” and truthfully, I don’t believe that a home is defined by the four walls that hold a roof overhead: it’s where your family is, those you love and that love you  When I think of March, I think of new beginnings.  I think of the ability to start fresh.  It’s the time when you open the earth to plant seeds – seeds that bloom and, when they blossom, you can begin to see your efforts pay off. That is true of anything in...

February 2024