In This Issue: May 2022
Cover Story
Weekends on the Water
Make a splash! From tubing to surfking to paddleboarding, here's every way to get wet within a five-hour drive.
Features
Fusing Two Passions
Laura Navarre writes romance and erotica novels, while Laura Schmidt Denlinger helps the government reduce the threat of nuclear war. They're also the same person.
The Killer in our Backyard
Charles W. Helem was arrested for murdering his ex-girlfriend in Chantilly. From there unraveled the solution to cold cases spanning decades--and the identity of a serial killer.
Skipping the Summer Slide
Help you kids stay sharp even as they toss textbooks aside for the season.
2022 Top Real Estate Agents
In this crazy housing market, you'll want someone with both experience and expertise by your side every step of the way. Meet the people who know Northern Virginia inside and out and can guide you to your dream home.
NoVA Now
Info Wars
The war to preserve NoVA's land (and history) from new industrial-tech companies.
Invasion of the 7-Inch Freaks
They're the new cicadas, only infinitely more horrifying: Joro spiders.
Shear Genius
People don't usually squeal when they see lawn mowers at work. Then again, lawn mowers aren't usually babydoll Sothdown sheep that look like snuggly four-legged teddy bears.
On Our Radar
NoVA-related books and shows that caught our eyes and ears.
Sharp-Dressed Man
Inside-the-Beltway fashion can probably best be characterized as "go-along-to-get-along." Which seems to be at least part of why Hyde Closet, is taking off in the DMV.
Datebook
The Good Life
Roll Out the Barrel
CB2's new Tysons Galleria store brings its high-minded furnishings and decor to NoVA.
Destination: Old Town Warrenton
With its beautifully preserved Federal and Italianate architecture, this town is pretty enough to co-star with Leonardo DiCaprio.
On the Ropes
Get your adrenaline pumping on this obstacle course in the sky.
2022 Best Spas
After two-plus years of pandemic-era stress (maskne was just the beginning), we say it's time for some blissing out, maybe at on of these 37 spas that are the best in tow. Says who? Readers like you.
Home & Design
Grazing in the Grass
Picnic essentials for your next outdoor feast.
In the House
Discover one-of-a-kind home décor finds at hidden gem Manse.
Cashmere and Loafers
That's how designer Kirsten Kaplan describes the "classic sensibility" of a stylish neutral palette.
Taste
Here's the Scoop
When Rollin Amore left the banking world last year, he originally considered traveling the globe in his sailboat. Instead, he started a new business, Mimi's Handmade Ice Cream.
From Liuzhou, With Love
The effort necessary to make the soup all but requires that it's crafted with love.
Consommé the Relationship
You'll be eating tacos this Cinco de Mayo anyway. While you're at it, dip into the birria trend.
Modern Art
Kismet Modern Indian in Old Town Alexandria is delicious, but is it groundbreaking?
Any Questions?
Jim Acosta
The CNN anchor, 51, on his Annandale roots, speaking truth to a dictator, and seeing yourself spoofed on "Saturday Night Live."