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Feast & Fettle offers families in Fairfax County a new way to reclaim their evenings

By Feast & Fettle
Feast & Fettle

Since launching in Fairfax County, Feast & Fettle has begun making its way to dinner tables throughout the region. As the meals arrive, so do the stories that remind the team why this work matters.

One member shared that for the first time in months, she had time to sit with her children after work instead of rushing to prepare dinner. Another told the team that her family had finally eaten three real meals together in a single week. These are the moments Feast & Fettle is designed to support.

Life in Fairfax often moves at a fast pace. Long workdays, after-school commitments, and packed calendars can leave little room for preparing a meal from scratch. But when dinner is already made and waiting in the fridge, the evening feels more manageable. The time around the table becomes something to look forward to again.

Feast & Fettle’s new regional facility is now fully operational. This space allows the team to ensure every delivery arrives on time and with the freshness members expect. It is more than a logistical center. It is a sign of long-term investment in the region, creating jobs and reinforcing a commitment to serving families with care and consistency.

Every meal is crafted in small batches by the in-house culinary team using whole ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques. The menu rotates each week and includes a variety of entrees, sides, and kid-friendly options. There are no shortcuts because quality is never the part that should be compromised.

The company is also continuing to build local relationships. An early partnership with community groups supporting furloughed federal workers was just the beginning. Feast & Fettle is committed to being part of the neighborhood in a meaningful and lasting way, not simply a service that drops off meals and moves on.

For those who have recently joined, the team is grateful to welcome them as members. For those still exploring, there is an open invitation to see how much simpler and more nourishing dinner can become.

Because at the end of the day, a good meal should give something back. Time. Comfort. And a chance to simply be together.

New members receive their second week free by using code LOCALNEWSNETWORK at checkout or following the link here: BECOME A MEMBER

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Designing a personal retreat within your reston home

By Mina Lucks

Written By: Synergy Design & Construction

Many homes are often designed around togetherness, open layouts, shared living spaces, and rooms built for gathering. While these features are valuable, they can leave little room for something just as important: a place where you can slow down and recharge. Creating a personal retreat is often the last thing considered when designing a home; however, it is just as important as any other space within the home.

As experienced remodelers serving Reston, VA, we see firsthand how thoughtful home design can shape the way people feel in their spaces. Beyond aesthetics and functionality, a well-designed home should include areas that allow you to disconnect from daily demands and reconnect with yourself. Research supports this approach, showing that dedicated spaces for rest and self-care can play a large role in reducing stress and improving long-term health. (more…)

Step Up and Shape Reston’s Future: Run for the RA Board of Directors

By Reston Association Elections Committee

Reston Association is now accepting candidates for the 2026 Board of Directors. This year, four seats are up for election: one At‑Large Director (three‑year term), Hunters Woods/Dogwood District Director (three‑year term), Lake Anne/Tall Oaks District Director (two‑year term), and Apartment Owners’ Representative (three‑year term). Whether you’ve always wanted a hands‑on role in shaping Reston’s future or are simply eager to give back, this is your moment to step forward.

Board service is deeply rewarding and impactful. Directors set policy in key areas such as finance, strategic planning and personnel, ensuring our neighborhood remains vibrant and valued. This is an opportunity to advocate for sustainable growth, champion amenities that reflect residents’ needs, and help guide decisions that preserve property values and enhance quality of life.

Applications are available online or at 12001 Sunrise Valley Drive and must be submitted by 5 p.m. on January 23, 2026, via email to electionscommittee@reston.org or in person. Voting will take place from February 27 through March 31, with results unveiled at the Annual Meeting in April.

Reston’s strength lies in the active involvement of its members. If you care deeply about your community and want to shape its direction, I encourage you to consider running for the Board of Directors. Visit www.reston.org/election to review the candidate packet, explore district eligibility and begin your application today.

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Join Alexandria Rugby

By Alexandria Rugby

Rugby is a fun sport that allows people of all walks of life and capabilities to be challenged, to enjoy the thrill of a team sport, or being a part of something that can span a lifetime.  Rugby, including tackle, offers kids- whether small or large, slim or heavy, short or stout, agile or speedster- equal opportunities to run with the ball, pass it, and play defense.  In rugby, everyone needs to participate that way; nobody gets left out.

We are registering now for our spring tackle season, which starts in early February. If you have any questions please reach out to info@alexandriarugby.com.

Join Here

Feast & Fettle launches in Fairfax County, making dinner easier for local families

By Feast & Fettle
Feast & Fettle

Feast & Fettle, a prepared meal delivery service that has become a household name in the Northeast, is officially launching in Fairfax County on January 3. Their mission is simple: help busy families enjoy better meals without the stress of cooking.

Their meals are fully prepared by an in-house culinary team and delivered chilled, ready to heat and serve. This isn’t a subscription box that requires prep or cleanup. It’s dinner, already done, with nothing left to do but enjoy it together.

Feast & Fettle saw Fairfax as the exact community it was looking to serve, with its blend of growing families, busy professionals, and people who value real food. They pride themselves on serving those who live busy lives, but don’t always have the time to cook.

Even before their official launch, the company took steps to get involved. They partnered with local organizations to donate a week’s worth of meals to furloughed federal workers. It was an early gesture of support, rooted in the belief that everyone deserves a comforting meal, especially when life gets unpredictable.

Their new regional facility, now open, will support deliveries and create local jobs. It’s one more way Feast & Fettle is committing to the DMV for the long term.

Members can expect a rotating menu of entrees, sides, and kid-friendly options each week. The food is made in small batches using whole ingredients, not shortcuts. It’s a quality-first approach that families can feel good about.

Dinner doesn’t have to be another chore at the end of the day. With Feast & Fettle now in Fairfax, it’s one less thing to worry about, and one more reason to sit down together.

New members receive their second week free by using code LOCALNEWSNETWORK at checkout or following the link here: Feast & Fettle

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7 smart ways to reimagine your basement

By Mina Lucks

Written By: Synergy Design & Construction

7 Smart Ways to Reimagine Your Basement

When homeowners think about ways to improve how their house functions day to day, the basement is often overlooked. Whether unfinished or partially complete, the lower level offers significant opportunity. With intentional planning and a thoughtful design build process, a basement remodel can add meaningful living space without expanding the home’s footprint.

At Synergy, basements are approached with the same care as any other remodel, emphasizing adaptability, comfort, and long-term use. Because of their flexibility, basements can support a wide range of needs, making them one of the most versatile areas in a home. Below are seven ways homeowners can thoughtfully transform their basements into a space that truly supports the way they live.

1. A Comfortable Family Room or Secondary Living Area

When the main level of a home is balancing work, school, entertaining, and everyday life, having an additional living space can make a noticeable difference. A basement family room creates room to spread out, whether that means hosting movie nights, welcoming guests, or giving kids a place to relax.

Key design elements include:

  • Layered lighting to brighten the lower level
  • Comfortable, durable seating options
    Built-in storage for media and electronics
  • Sound control for movies or music
  • Warm materials that make the space feel inviting

A well-designed basement living area enhances everyday comfort while helping preserve the main living spaces upstairs.

(more…)

New Year’s Eve at Gaylord National

By Big Night DC New Year’s Eve Extravaganza
1/5

Big Night DC is back for New Year’s Eve with one of the largest and most immersive NYE celebrations in the country. Taking over 200,000+ square feet of the Gaylord National Resort, the event features 20+ Acts, five hours of full open bars, VIP lounges, and a massive midnight countdown.

Guests can choose from multiple experience levels including Main Event, VIP, POSE Club, and Cherry Blossom Velvet Rope.

Tickets are on sale now and prices increase regularly.

Premium hotel rooms at the Gaylord are available for a limited time.

Learn more and secure tickets at BigNightDC.com

Tickets & Info

Legal Insider: Federal employees need counsel for MSPB appeals

By John V. Berry

This is a sponsored column by attorneys John Berry and Kimberly Berry of Berry & Berry, PLLC, an employment and labor law firm located in Northern Virginia that specializes in federal employee, security clearance, retirement and private sector employee matters.

The Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) is an appeals process for federal employees and former federal employees to challenge a variety of federal agency actions. These include serious disciplinary actions (adverse actions), retirement appeals, whistleblower retaliation cases, and other types of personnel disputes.

The most common type of MSPB Appeal for federal employees involves serious disciplinary actions, such as a proposed removal, suspension over 14 days, or demotion. Although federal employees have the right to represent themselves, federal agencies are almost always represented by counsel.

Federal Agencies Treat MSPB Cases Differently When an Employee Has an Attorney

One key reason to retain an MSPB lawyer is that it often changes how a federal agency approaches an MSPB appeal. Agencies typically allocate more time and resources to cases in which the federal employee is represented by counsel. When a federal employee has an attorney, agency counsel knows the opposing party will be able to understand deadlines, evidentiary rules, and litigation strategy.

The MSPB Process is Much Like a Regular Civil Case

The MSPB Appeals Process functions much like a regular court case. A major misconception is that the MSPB process is simple enough for an employee to handle alone. In reality, an MSPB appeal operates similarly to a civil court case and includes discovery, depositions, and motions among other similarities.

Federal employees often contact us after discovery deadlines have passed. This can significantly limit the chances of winning or negotiating a favorable settlement. Retaining an MSPB attorney early in the process is critical to preserving your rights and building the strongest possible case.

Having an Attorney Can Increase Your Chances of Settlement

In our experience, federal employees represented by counsel are more likely to resolve their MSPB appeals through settlement. Federal agencies evaluate settlement based on various factors such as risk, including the risk of losing the appeal, which increases when the employee has effective representation.

Attorneys also understand how to conduct strategic discovery, take depositions, and obtain information that may encourage a federal agency to settle. Self-represented employees often struggle with these tasks, which can diminish settlement leverage and reduce the amount of useful evidence that is uncovered.

Additionally, MSPB lawyers are skilled in negotiating and drafting settlement agreements to protect the employee’s interests, minimize future risk, and help ensure compliance by the agency.

It is Hard for an Employee to Represent Themselves at a MSPB Hearing

MSPB hearings require litigation skills that are challenging for a non-lawyer to perform effectively. A hearing typically involves opening and closing statements, presenting and questioning witnesses, cross-examining agency witnesses, making objections, and understanding evidentiary rules and providing sworn testimony.

Self-representation becomes especially challenging when it comes to testifying. Employees often end up making unscripted statements instead of providing structured testimony that effectively supports their case. An MSPB attorney can guide the employee through their testimony and ensure the strongest possible presentation of evidence.

Many federal employees come to us after filing their appeal, only to discover how complex and time-sensitive the process is. The earlier an MSPB attorney becomes involved, the better the outcome tends to be.

Our law firm represents and advises federal employees in various employment law matters. If you need legal assistance regarding a federal employment matter, please contact our office at (703) 668-0070 or at www.berrylegal.com to schedule a consultation.

Listing of the Day: 706 Blueberry Hill Rd

By FFXnow.com
1/7

Address: 706 Blueberry Hill Rd
Neighborhood: MERRYWOOD ON THE POTOMAC
Type: 4 BR, 4 (+1 half) BA townhouse – 4407 sq. ft.
Listed: $1,625,000

Noteworthy: LUSH LOT WITH SPARKLING POOL! AMAZING LOCATION! SWOON WORTHY UPGRADES!

Breathtaking on Blueberry Hill ! Extraordinary End townhome boasting exceptional natural light, is sited beautifully on a cul-de-sac in majestic Merrywood on the Potomac. This idyllic enclave is known for its remarkable sylvan setting and strategic location just moments to the Chain Bridge, GW Parkway and Tyson’s Corner. Live the luxury lifestyle with lawn care/mowing, snow removal and trash pick up all included in your fee. PLUS, community tennis courts add to the amenity rich community. Enjoy designer inspired finishes, and swoon worthy updates, including two marble baths in the upper level Primary Suite, oversized upper level laundry room and updated chef’s kitchen with center island and a view of nothing but nature AND the Potomac River! The expansive fenced corner lot, with captivating heated pool, is your personal club with more than enough room for soccer and socializing. And, for an elevated view of this wonderland, relax in the solarium just off the formal dining room. The lower level recreation room, with wet bar, is an entertainer’s delight and house guest’s dream with large bedroom, full bath and, for everyone, access to the pool. Add to all of this a one car main level entry garage opening to the kitchen and the prestige that comes with living among history. 3 Upper Level Bedrooms with Huge Closets Hardwood Floors under carpet in Upper Level Secondary Bedrooms An easy stroll to the Community Tennis Courts around the corner.

Listed by:
Chris Pritchard – Corcoran McEnearney
chris.pritchard@corcoranmce.com
(703) 475-7520

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