Although hard to believe it’s time again to welcome another holiday season, I’m pleased to note what a “banner” year it’s been for Reston and the surrounding area.
The expansion of our community continues, with big changes—and major players—all around us, including Bechtel (now one of the DC Metro’s biggest private companies) making Reston its global headquarters; Walmart massively expanding its tech operation, Walmart Labs, in Reston; and as the latest indication of our growing reputation in the tech world, word that Google may be about to establish a big footprint at Reston Station, with Reston/Herndon still reportedly high on the short list for Amazon’s massive second headquarters.
Can’t help but to be thrilled with 2018’s many successes and we’re keeping our fingers crossed for great news from these industry giants by year’s end.
But never fear, Reston’s still a great place to live, too, as it was recently named one of the DC Area’s “hottest neighborhoods” in a Washington Business Journal report. And another study by the financial planning website, SmartAssets, reports that Fairfax County’s many economic benefits and plentiful things to do make it a “Best Place To Retire” In Virginia.
Makes us glad to live, work and play here!
Speaking of “play”, we’re ready to enjoy a winter wonderland’s worth of fun seasonal activities at Reston Town Center, starting with the 28th Annual Reston Holiday Parade on Friday November 23rd. Check out our feature on this beloved holiday tradition and the many other festivities at RTC throughout December that are sure to put a little mischief in your merry!
And if you’re going to the parade, or just want to be in-the-know, you must check out Kathleen McDonough’s “Personalities” profile of Reston’s talented young stage, screen and TV actress, Sissy Sheridan. She’ll be taking on the Grand Marshall duties for this year’s Holiday Parade as well as singing, dancing and acting her heart out at the Tony-award winning Signature Theatre in Arlington’s production of “Billy Elliot.” This kid has it all and we’re thrilled to be able to call her a hometown girl!
Kathleen also had a chance to sit down with our friend, neighbor and best selling author, David Baldacci, to talk about his newest, Long Road to Mercy. It’s sure to be another blockbuster and, with a November release, it’s available just in time for gift giving!
For this holiday edition, our editorial staff has also compiled a thorough list of special holiday events, activities and celebrations sure to elevate your season!
Michael Evans of Helga’s Caters asks us What’s Your Party Style? and shares some great ideas for holiday entertaining. And you’ll want to Light up the Holidays with Linda Barrett as she offers some thoughts on using professionals for your outdoor decorating projects.
Look’s like Linda’s been a busy little elf, because she also brings us A Toast to Cider, with some tasty selections from Virginia’s best cideries for our seasonal consideration and takes a trip to Leesburg’s chocolate-themed restaurant, Conche, to find out if chocolate really is the perfect food.
What’s new in your kitchen? We sent Analiese Kreutzer to find out what new trends we can expect in 2019 for kitchen and bath design.
And if that’s not enough, our Allison Chase Sutherland was back on the hunt for a special getaway spot close by. She’s found one in Virginia’s Hunt Country—The Black Horse Inn.
Not forgetting the family, we take a look at the acclaimed Nysmith School for the Gifted in Herndon and how they are offering their students a curriculum and academic environment that keeps them passionate about learning.
Dr. Rashita Jaju, DDS, is back to remind us that before year’s end we need to Use It or Lose It, when it comes to our children’s dental benefits, while Financial Advisor Dan Lash shares thoughts on Special Needs Planning, helpful for families thinking ahead for their special needs children.
As we do every year, we ask that you please consider our local merchants and service providers when making your holiday gift selections this year. Those dollars spent locally go a long way in supporting our local economy and the tax base that provides so many of the important services we receive and rely on. Our local merchants need our support today more than ever—let’s be there for them this year!
Finally, as we close out another year, please know how much all of us at Viva! appreciate your readership and support. From all of us here, please accept our warmest wishes for a safe and wonderful holiday season and best wishes for good health and prosperity in for the coming year!
