Wellness

A 'Thank You' Note

Embrace Your Journey and Celebrate Your Growth Article and Photography by AJ Jones In the hustle and bustle of life, it's all too easy to overlook the quiet strength and resilience we each possess. We're often our own harshest critics, quick to downplay our achievements while magnifying our shortcomings. But what if we took a moment to flip the script? What if we paused to acknowledge the fortitude we've shown, the lessons we've learned, and the growth we've experienced over the past year...

Arts + Culture

Dr. Tauheed Burke:

The Architect of Gratitude Article by AJ Jones | Photography by Clayton Jones Photography Dr. Tauheed Burke has built a life and career on a foundation of service and a profound sense of gratitude. From his military service to his work as a financial professional and his tireless efforts in community philanthropy, his journey is a testament to the power of giving back. In a month dedicated to thankfulness, we sit down with Dr. Burke to explore how his unique perspective has shaped his life...

Finance + Legal Services

What’s Your Number?

Why Retirement Planning Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All Article by Chad Sigmon, AJ Jones | Photography by Courtesy of Integrated Wealth Advisors Open any financial publication or scroll through your favorite news feed, and you're bound to see headlines like: "Here's How Much You Need to Retire in 2025" or "The Average 401(k) Balance by Age." These articles often suggest tidy, round numbers as savings benchmarks. But do these numbers truly matter if they don't reflect your unique lifestyle? Retirement...

Life + Culture

Mayor's Corner

Article by Mayor Kelly Burk, AJ Jones | Photography by The Town of Leesburg Thanksgiving will soon be upon us, and it’s the perfect time of year to reflect on all that we should be grateful for. This time of year, I seem to become a bit contemplative. Maybe it is the shorter days, or the cooler temperatures, or the holiday feel, but something makes me slow down and reminisce on how much we must be thankful. So many of us are lucky to have a warm, happy place to call home, dinner on the table...

Entertainment

Did Someone Say Turkey Trot?

Gobble Up Fun and Fitness with Virginia's Feathered Festivities Article by AJ Jones In the crisp morning air of Virginia, as the sun begins to peek through the colorful autumn leaves, there’s a buzz of excitement among runners lacing up their shoes. Families, friends, and even playful pets gather, ready to embark on a cherished Thanksgiving tradition: the Turkey Trot. Whether it's the Alexandria Turkey Trot or the Marine Corps Turkey Trot 10K, these races offer more than just a pre-feast...

Food + Beverage

Roasted Cauliflower Steaks

Article by AJ Jones Forget complicated tofurkeys and lackluster vegetable sides. These Roasted Cauliflower Steaks are here to be the showstopping vegetarian centerpiece your holiday table deserves. Thick-cut, savory, and roasted until perfectly caramelized, they’re seasoned with traditional Thanksgiving spices like thyme and poultry seasoning to ensure every bite complements your classic side dishes. This recipe is simple to execute but delivers a flavor and presentation that feels every bit...

Food + Beverage

Thanksgiving

Herb-Crusted Prime Rib Article by AJ Jones A classic, beautifully roasted Prime Rib is a magnificent choice for a Thanksgiving main course. It promises a festive, impressive meal that will delight all your guests. Here is a recipe for a perfect Herb-Crusted Prime Rib with Red Wine Au Jus. This recipe uses the popular high-heat sear followed by a low-and-slow roast method to achieve a gorgeous crust and a perfectly medium-rare center. Thanksgiving Herb-Crusted Prime Rib Servings:  6-8 (for...

Food + Beverage

Big Kyle Barbeque

Article by AJ Jones | Photography by Alex Mangione Big Kyle Barbeque has become a staple for amazing food and friends.   Before he was smoking meats professionally, Kyle Norris was just a guy who loved cooking for his huge family gatherings. “Thanksgiving at our place was absolute madness. From siblings, to kids, grandparents and a few family friends there were over 75 people. It was crazy but perfect,” he says with a grin. One year, he even ended up delivering Thanksgiving dinner to all the...

Food + Beverage

Harvest & Hearth

Article by AJ Jones As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, there's no better way to embrace October than with the delightful pairing of autumn harvest stuffed bell peppers and a comforting spiced apple cider. This combination captures the essence of fall, making it ideal for gatherings with friends or a cozy evening at home.  Autumn Harvest Stuffed Bell Peppers Ingredients Peppers:  4 medium bell peppers of any color. Filling Base:  1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 medium diced...

Food + Beverage

Mayor's Corner

Article by AJ Jones | Photography by The Town of Leesburg As summer comes to an end and the days become shorter and the nights cooler, Halloween cannot be far away.  Fall holds so many lovely and sweet memories for me.  As a child my father would rake all the leaves in piles around the yard, but I clearly remember my brother and all the neighborhood kids coming to our yard to play in those piles of leaves.  We would jump in them and have leaf fights until my father came out of the house with...