In this Issue: September 2020
Cover Story
Best of NoVA
We've got reader-favorites for everything from entertainment to dining, exercise to shopping. Here are this year's Best of NoVA winners.
Features
Northern Virginians of the Year
From organizing a Black Lives Matter march to sewing masks for the most vulnerable to helping LGBTQ+ youth find their voices, this year’s class of Northern Virginians of the Year have come forward to keep our community strong during a head-spinning time.
Million Dollar Lies: The Case Against Keisha Williams
Houses, cars, businesses, inheritance, retirement money, life savings, Social Security checks: All gone to fund one Ashburn woman's outrageous $5 million spending spree.
Living Large
Remember when retirement meant a rocking chair and watching TV all day? Neither do these retirees. Today's seniors are trading in spacious suburban homes for luxury condos and active retirement communities.
Notes
Take It Outside
As indoor movie theaters struggle to safely reopen, many are turning to a classic outing: the drive-in.
Fast Five
From golf and race cars to basketball and skateboards, here’s how to finally soak in some sports this season.
Faces: Alban Odoulamy
The formally trained puppeteer shares the history of his 24-year-old store.
Local Author Love
The author’s newest release, “Like Lovers Do,” is the second in her “Girls Trip” series.
Datebook
NoVA in 19
From the return of live performances to virtual events, here’s what you should make time for this month.
Life & Style
Pieces of Peace
With every gemstone, chain or eco-friendly piece sold from their local business, these University of Virginia grads are helping survivors of sexual assault.
Insider's Guide: Jewell Green
As she unveils her new fall edit, Green talks all things fashion with Northern Virginia Magazine.
Leather Pleasure
Here are 8 colorful leather pieces to spice up the fall days ahead.
Natural Talent
With her monthly watercolor club, this Sterling-based artist gives creatives an outlet for their craft, spreading joy with every stroke.
Home & Design
No Place Like Home
As the saying goes, Virginia is for Lovers. Whether Virginia is your home state or adopted state, show off your love on National Virginia Day (Sept. 14) with these fun, state-themed products.
Aspiring Accommodations
The Aspire House McLean, open to visitors through Sept. 14, is showcasing seven Northern Virginia interior designers’ work, serving as inspiration for home projects across the region, as well as promoting diversity in the industry.
Happy Homecoming
When this family was moving back home, they called on Vienna-based Studio 320 to create their dream home.
Listing of the Month
Looking for more space? This high-end home in McLean is currently on the market.
Food & Drink
What Alice is Eating
Where do restaurant critics eat when they’re not preparing for their latest review? Our food editor/critic, Alice Levitt, is always on the hunt for the most exciting meals, whether they’re new or just new to her. This month, these are some of the spots that she’s excited to share.
Celebration by Rupa Vira brings a taste of whimsy to Indian cuisine in Ashburn
Diners eat with their eyes at this visually pleasing South Asian restaurant.
In Like a Lamb
The Black Sheep Restaurant is an unexpected beauty in Manassas.
SuperNoVA
SuperNoVA
Public Art Reston hosted a spring sidewalk chalk competition that yielded some gorgeous results.