Classic Albums Live- 2013

     This weekend, you could be enjoying the smooth sounds of music from Classic Albums Live. Classic Albums Live is comprised of immensely talented musicians performing the greatest albums of time, and they will be performing live.
     Celebrating a decade of live performances, Classic Albums Live was founded by Craig Martin back in 2003. Classic Albums Live has had many performances, and should continue to have many more. For this weekend, they will be performing songs from the famous Beatles album, Abbey Road. The performance this weekend will be taking place at The Hamilton, located in Washington D.C.
     Named after one of the U.S. founding fathers, the Hamilton hosts a number of musical performers and is also a restaurant where you can enjoy fine cuisine. If you are interested in visiting the Hamilton for the next show, you should free up your weekend and join in on the event.
www.thehamiltondc.com

Classic Albums Live

Date: Saturday, August 24th 2013
Time: 8:30pm

The Hamilton
600 14th Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20005
202-787-1000

Les Miserables- August 2013

     During this month of August, you have the privilege of experiencing a classic musical tale. Les Miserables will be shown as a dinner theater feature at the Riverside Center in Fredericksburg, VA. Complete with a meal and performance, you can purchase tickets for any of the showings during this four month long event.
     Open since 1998, the Riverside Center has been host to more than 60 Broadway productions, over 100 adaptations of children's stories as well as ceremonies, receptions, and other social events.
     You can look over the different show times, and choose which one would be the best for you. Shows are from Wednesday through Sunday at matinee and evening times. For more information on times, dinner menu, or any other additional information you can call 540-370-4300, or visit Riverside Center website.
www.lesmis.com
 
Date: Wednesday, August 7th, 2013
Time: 11:30am-12:00pm for dinner
1:30pm for performance
Price: $55 Adult, $50 Senior(55+), $40 Child
Location: Riverside Center

95 Riverside Parkway
Fredericksburg, VA 22406
888-999-8527

 

Independence Day 2013- Mason Neck State Park

     As a lover of the outdoors, there is no question that you would want to have celebrations in nature. As you already know, Independence Day is this week and celebration is certainly in order. What better way to celebrate than near one of the founding fathers' homes? George Mason's home, that is. It's true, as you could be celebrating Independence Day at the Mason Neck State Park.
     Taking place directly on the day, July 4th, will be picnicking and hiking as well as other outdoor activities great for all ages. There will be programs led by park rangers and programs you can participate in on your own during the day. Several hours of activities, food, and fun are waiting for you. If you are considering joining the festivities, don't hesitate.

Date: Thursday, July 4, 2013
Time: 10:00am - 5:00pm
*Admission is free

Mason Neck State Park

7301 High Point Road

Lorton, VA 22079

www.dcr.virginia.gov

     For more information, call 703-339-2380 or email masonneck@dcr.virginia.gov

Full Moon Kayak Trip

     This upcoming weekend, you could be making plans to have an evening on the water. At Belle Isle State Park, a Full Moon Kayak Trip is taking place during the night hours and you could be a part of the event. During your trip across the waters you can learn about the full moon and its effects on nature. You can view the beautiful reflection of the moon on the water as you paddle and enjoy the warm summer weather. You should free up your Sunday evening and join up! Reservations are required and it is recommended to register one day prior to the event. Why not make it a group outing and bring along some friends?
     There is a nominal fee to participate and it varies depending on the type of kayak you choose(i.e. single, tandem). You will have a professional guide and equipment will be administered to you. Simply visit the Camp store to retrieve them. For more information about the park, visit the following link:
http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/bel.shtml.

Date: Sunday June 23, 2013
Time: 8:00pm- 10:00pm
Price: $8.00 for single, $12.00 for double(tandem)

Belle Isle State Park
1632 Belle Isle Rd
Lancaster, VA 22503 
804-462-5030

Date Night: Chef's Table

     What do you have planned this upcoming Saturday? Are you looking for something to do this weekend with a friend or loved one? If you like cooking or think of it as something you can enjoy doing as a pass time, you can make a night of it by attending Chef's Night at the Workhouse Arts Center. By participating in this class, you can learn some basic cooking techniques and even learn a new recipe. The dishes range from ethnic meals such as Spanish and even Vegetarian meals. Reserve a slot today!

Date: Saturday June 15, 2013
Time: 8:00pm - 10:00pm
Price: $80 per couple*
Location: W-16: Vulcan Gallery Venue 

Workhouse Arts Center
9601 Ox Rd
Lorton, VA 22079
703-584-2900

*Reservations are required and must be made at least 2 days before the event date.

For more information, visit http://www.workhousearts.org/events/general-events/date-night-chefs-table-9

2013 Summer Sounds Concerts- The Center for the Arts

     The Center for the Arts hosts a number of free concerts every year, and it's that time of year once again! Concerts are on Saturday evenings, and you should stop by. Make a date of these events and bring something to relax on, as well as something to eat. Starting this month, you can enjoy the 2013 Summer
Sounds Concerts. Sponsored by Micron Technology Foundation and the City of Manassas, they are happy to offer such an opportunity to the public and look forward to seeing you attend!
image from www.center-for-the-arts.org
Date: Saturday, June 22 2013
Performances: Bagpipes and Celtic Dancers
Time: 6:30pm
Location: Harris Pavilion

For more times and events, visit their website at http://www.center-for-the-arts.org/programs/summer-sounds-concerts/ or call 703-330-2787

Harris Pavilion
9116 Center St
Manassas VA 20110 

If you would like to learn more about the Center, visit them at www.center-for-the-arts.org

Lunchtime Tour of the Conservatory-May 2013

     The United States Botanic Garden is hosting wonderful tours of their establishment, including a lunchtime tour of their conservatory. It will be a one hour tour and you can learn about the different plants they possess.

     Built in 1933, this greenhouse holds two courtyard gardens and ten garden rooms under a roof of glass; a total of 28,944 square feet. Click here to learn more about the Conservatory.

United States Botanic Garden

Location: Conservatory Garden Court

Date: Wednesday, May 29th 2013

Time: 12:00pm- 1:00pm

*admission is free

 
100 Maryland Avenue SW

Washington, DC 20001

(202) 225-8333

Cool Cow Comedy presents: Ryan Conner

     Cool Cow Comedy's monthly comedy series will be coming to the Workhouse Arts Center with two shows this Memorial Day weekend. 
      Cool Cow Comedy has featured many different comedians over its course including those featured on Comedy Central and MTV, and movie channels such as HBO.
     For the evening shows, Cool Cow Comedy will be featuring Ryan Conner, an established comedian who has done many shows and even was a contributing writer for Saturday Night Live. You can learn more about Ryan on his website.

Date: Saturday, May 25 2013

Times: 7:00pm, 9:00pm

Ticket price: $15

*Special Deal: $12 tickets for the 9pm show when you purchase 4 tickets! Coupon Code: 12DOLLAR upon checkout. Offer only good for the 9pm show when 4 tickets are purchased.

Lorton Arts Foundation

Workhouse Arts Center

9601 Ox Rd

Lorton,VA 22079

(703) 495-0001



Cinco De Mayo- 2013

     Today marks the day of celebration for Mexican culture and heritage. It is also the 151st anniversary of a victory over France during the Franco-Mexican war (fought 1861-1867) at the Battle of Puebla.

     Often celebration includes parades, parties, mariachi music, dancing and traditional foods. In fact, the United States celebrates this event largely in cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and Houston with huge festival events. You can read more on the history of this day at history.com.

     Celebrating culture and heritage with parties can happen anywhere. You could be going to a party today, enjoying this afternoon and evening. You may even be hosting one, and there are plenty of recipes for creating dishes that your guests will enjoy.

     Happy Cinco de Mayo, and enjoy the festivities!

     Paragon Art festival presents the Fairfax Fine Arts Festival at Fairfax Corner Shopping Center this upcoming weekend. An abundance of pieces will be available for sale including sculptures, paintings, photographs, and more. Admission is free. Stop in either on Saturday or Sunday and see if there is anything that you would be interested in obtaining. You may find something to your liking.

Saturday April 27, 2013 10:00am- 6:00pm
Sunday April 28, 2013 11:00am- 5:00pm

Fairfax Corner Shopping Center
4250 Fairfax Corner E Ave.
Fairfax,VA, 22030

Earth Day- 2013

     Happy Earth Day folks! Earth day was founded in 1970 on April 22nd by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson. In an effort to raise awareness on air and water pollution, he convinced Republican Congressman Peter McClowskey to assist. They were later joined by Denis Hayes to be the national coordinator. Thus established the history of continued efforts to show consideration for the planet.  
     Even before Earth Day was founded, people were taking steps to preserve the planet on which we dwell. In this present day many people take part in giving back to Earth, any way they can.
     How much do you know about Earth?

     It isn't too late to contribute to the movement. There are things one can do to be a part of conservation, and the effort is minimal at that! You can do things such as recycling, using energy efficient light bulbs, paperless billing, hang drying your clothes, or just turning off the water faucet while you brush your teeth! What will you do today?

Observe the Skies

     The National Air and Space Museum is hosting an observation of the sun. During the three hours, you can use the Observatory's safe telescopes to view the sun and learn about solar activity.
     The Observatory's own staff and volunteers will give you information on the effects of this star on Earth. Admission is free, and you can bring the whole family to learn something new.

Date: Wed, April 10th

Time: 12:00pm- 3:00pm

Fee: None

*Dates and times are subject to change, and you can view any updates at the Observatory's entrance. The viewing also depends on clear weather conditions.

National Air and Space Museum
Independence Ave SW & 6th St SW
Washington, D.C. 20560
202-633-2214

National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade- 2013

     The annual National Cherry Blossom Festival parade celebrates the gift of three thousand trees from Japan in 1912. The mayor of Tokyo, Yukio Ozaki, sent the beautiful treasures to Washington, D.C. as tribute to the long lasting relationship between these two countries.

     Each year there is a parade, and it is taking place later this month. Presenting vivid costumes and adornments that resemble blossoms, the parade will be travelling through our nation's capital. There will be music, dancing, as well as celebrity appearances. All are welcome to experience the awe and refinement of this performance.

Saturday, April 13th 2013

      10:00am- 12:00pm

*admission is free along parade route; Grandstand seating $20

     Visit their website for more information on subjects such as tickets, event details, or even the history of the festival.

National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade

Constitution Avenue

from 7th to 17th street, NW

Washington, D.C 20408

Ticonderoga Farms- Spring Easter Festival 2013

     During this first week of April, Ticonderoga Farms is holding a Spring festival. Join them in the activities that they have in store, which include an egg hunt, prizes, Easter bunny, and farm animals. The egg hunts feature eggs filled with candy and toys. Bring your own basket, or purchase one while visiting. You can also use a bag. In addition to these activities, you may pick flowers such as daffodils from their flower beds. They also have some pre-cut if you prefer.

 

Ticonderoga Farm

26469 Ticonderoga Rd

Chantilly,VA 20152

703-327-4424

Date: Tuesday, April 2nd 2013

Time: 10:00am- 5:00pm

Price: $8.95

     There are other dates you can attend; just view their website for more information on the event as well as times and pricing.

     *Another tidbit: It's April Fool's Day! Check out the history of this date.

 

New York City Ballet-March 2013

     The New York City Ballet will be performing at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. this week. Come to our nation's capital and witness the elegance during their mixed program.

Date: Saturday March 30th, 2013

Time: 7:30pm

     You can view more information about other dates of performances and even purchase tickets.

Kennedy Center

2700 F St NW

Washington, DC 20001

800-444-1324 or 202-467-4600(for tickets/ information)

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey- 2013

     Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus is coming to the Washington D.C. area. Presenting DRAGONS, the circus will be performing at the Verizon Center this month on Friday, March 22nd. Ringmaster Jonathan Lee Iverson conducts this extravagant contest of circus champions that brings together magical dragon legend with genuine circus exploits. This is the perfect opportunity to view their amazing performance, and why they are considered The Greatest Show on Earth! Go online and purchase your tickets today.

 Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey

*Be sure to check out the All-Access pre-show one hour before the main event. You can see animals close-up, get autographs, and much more!

Friday March 22, 2013- 7:30pm

Verizon Center

601 F Street NW

Washington, D.C. 20004

(202) 628-3200

     If this date is not available for you, you can view other dates and times that the circus will be in town. Bring the whole family and enjoy yourselves!

   



Irish Bars- St Patrick's Day

     Saint Patrick's Day is just a few days away. It's a day to celebrate culture, with a pint or two. If you have the desire to find an Irish Pub to enjoy, you can find some around the U.S. that you can visit. A slide show on the best Irish Bars in the United States can be a good starting place. One particular Irish bar is located right in Washington D.C.

     The Dubliner was established in 1974, aiming to keep the authenticity of a Dublin city pub. While in the D.C. area, you should stop in and enjoy the live music, which they have seven days a week, as well as something cold to drink. Visit their website to learn more! 

Dubliner Irish Pub

Number 4 "F" Street

Washington D.C., 20001

Phone: 202-737-3773

HOURS

 

 

BAR:

11:00am - 1:30am Sunday - Thursday

11:00am - 2:30am Friday - Saturday

BREAKFAST:

7:00am - 10:00am Monday - Friday

7:30am - 11:00am Saturday/ Sunday

BRUNCH:

11:00am - 3:00pm Saturday/ Sunday

LUNCH:

11:00am - 3:00pm Monday - Friday

DINNER:

3:00pm - 10:30pm, 7 days a week

LATE NIGHT MENU:

10:30pm - 12:00am Sunday/ Monday

10:30pm - 1:00am Tuesday - Saturday

WWE Raw: Road To Wrestlemania 2013

     The WWE  Raw Road to Wrestlemania Tour is coming this month to Fairfax, VA at the Patriot Center. Superstars include, but are not limited to: John Cena, Chris Jericho, Dolph Ziggler, Ryback, and Sheamus.

WWE Raw: Road to Wrestlemania
Saturday, March 23rd- 7:30pm


Patriot Center
4500 Patriot Circle
Fairfax,VA 22030
(703) 993-3000
     Purchase your tickets now. For more info, visit their website: www.wwe.com

VCA Artists Nights: Lynne Mackey

     Classical pianist Lynne Mackey will be performing in a recital at the Workhouse Arts Center. 
Lynne Mackey teaches piano, pedagogy, and music theory. As a Juilliard School graduate and her Eastman School of Music doctorate, she has gained a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan. She is Associate Professor of Music at Eastern Mennonite University and Director of the Virginia Baroque Performance Academy.
     The recital will feature music of Russian composers ranging from Rachmaninoff and Medtner, to Stravinsky and Prokofiev.

Date: Friday, March 15-4:00pm(doors open at 3:30pm)

Price: $25 General Admission, $20 Senior/Military, $12 Youth/Student

Tickets can be purchased online.

Workhouse Arts Center

9601 Ox Road

 Lorton, Virginia 22079

703-584-2900

www.workhousearts.org

Piccadilly Circus- 2013

     A circus is coming! The Piccadilly Circus will be in Fredericksburg, VA during the third weekend of March. Take the family to this event and see what they have in store for you; all ages welcome.

 

image courtesy of www.TheFunCircus.com

Join The Piccadilly Circus at:

Fredericksburg Fairgrounds

2400 Airport Ave

Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Fr, March 15- 4:30pm & 7:30pm

Sat, March 16- 1:30pm, 4:30pm, & 7:30pm

Sun, March 17-1:00pm, 3:30pm, & 6:00pm

     You can purchase tickets in advance online, and with a promotion code you will receive a discount. If you have any questions, you can call 877-373-0477 or email fun@thefuncircus.com  

National Hot Breakfast Month

     February is National Hot Breakfast Month! The options for hot meals out there are vast and you may even be able to have a different kind each morning. You can choose from types of prepared eggs, cooked meats, and much more.
     For this month, try going out for breakfast with your family. Go to a restaurant and have a hearty omelet or a stack of warm pancakes. You can have a side of eggs sunnyside up, or scrambled. Hash browns and bacon on the side make for a fine addition. Or, if you have time in the morning, you can wake up and cook a scrumptious breakfast of your own. Here's a recipe you can try out.

      Buttermilk Pancakes

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons white sugar
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups buttermilk
• 1/2 cup milk
• 3 eggs
• 1/3 cup butter, melted

Directions:

     Step 1:In large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, beat together buttermilk, milk, eggs and melted butter with whisk or equivalent. Keep two mixtures apart until ready to cook.
     Step 2:Heat lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium high heat. To test readiness, splash small droplets of water into pan. If they sizzle, you're ready to begin.

     Step 3: Combine wet and dry ingredients, and stir using a wooden spoon or fork to blend. Stir just enough, until blended together. Pour or scoop batter onto griddle, using approximately 1/2 cup for each pancake. Brown to preference on each side and serve hot! *Tip: You can tell a pancake is ready to flip when the edges become dry and small bubbles begin to form.

     Would you like more recipes? Of course you would! Take a look at some more hot breakfast recipes. You may want to try them all out.
     Even if you aren't a cook, you can surely take part in eating hot breakfast. Let's just say you don't have time for making breakfast, or you aren't interested in going out to a restaurant. You can have some on-the-go breakfast. There are some choice picks that may take just a minute or two to heat up. For starters, try out some of Jimmy Dean's Delights brand of breakfast meals, like their french toast griddler.
     Another place you can have some breakfast is at the hotel you are staying in when you travel. If you are interested in breakfast, do some research on what the hotel offers as sustenance. As a matter of fact, if you stay at a Hampton Inn, you can be treated to a nice hot breakfast of waffles, oatmeal, eggs, and sausage. Take a muffin too!  
     Enjoy a hot breakfast today, and for the rest of this month. After all, it is the most important meal of the day!



Pets on the Go

     Some of you may be planning a trip, the type of trip that involves a certain four-legged friend. With these type of trips, it requires some extra planning to accommodate your furry buddy so that the experience is comfortable for the both of you.

     It is good to keep in mind that certain facilities accept pets while others do not. This may give the impression that you can't have access to places you prefer because of this, but not necessarily. Certain hotel chains possess facilities that are pet friendly depending on the area you are travelling to. Wile making your reservations, you can do a little research and inquire on the regulations for the hotel of your choice. You can call and simply ask them, or if you prefer to use the internet you can visit certain websites that offer pet-friendly hotel suggestions. 

     If the trip you are planning is for activities you can do with your companion, and you are in the Virginia area, you can look up certain parks where you can enjoy your time together. Some of these parks can also be indoors, in case the weather doesn't agree with your outdoor activities. Other activities include tours, runs, cycling, pet shows, and even pet spa days.

   

 

     Are you a first-time pet traveller? Here are a few pointers to help you get started.

• Have travel food and water containers, and treats
• Take you pet to the veterinarian for a checkup
• Bring along some of your pet's favorite toys
• Have a pet carrier, or crate
• waste bags, litter trays or any equivalent
• Extra leashes, collars
• Wet wipes, spot cleaner

 These are just a few tips, but you can view more pet travel tips to make your experience an enjoyable one and you can be better prepared for any situation. With preparation, your pet will be happy on the trip, and you will be too!

Harlem Globetrotters-2013

     Get ready to enjoy some entertaining basketball when the Harlem Globetrotters come to northern Virginia. During their 2013 tour they will be coming to Fairfax, VA and playing at the Patriot Center. The Patriot Center is located on the northern Virginia campus of the George Mason University.

image courtesy of www.patriotcenter.com

4500 Patriot Circle

Fairfax, VA 22030

703.993.3000 

     Originally named the Savoy Big Five when created by Abe Saperstein in 1926, the Harlem Globetrotters have been touring for over 85 years and spreading joy to families with their tricks and vibrant energy.

Saturday, March 2nd- 7:30pm

Sunday, March 3rd- 2:00pm

    

This won't be the only time the Harlem Globetrotters will be in Virginia, and if you are interested in learning more about their schedule, you can visit the Harlem Globetrotters website.



Happy Valentine's Day!!

     Love is in the air! Are you enjoying this designated day of love? You may be one of the many people who have put off planning something with your special someone. It isn't uncommon to be a procrastinator when it comes to getting things done. Don't despair, some things can be done last minute with very little preparation! 

     If you are the type who enjoys creating crafts, you can easily make your significant other a personal gift. You can make your very own cards, floral arrangements, or even some delicious chocolate covered strawberries. In a matter of minutes you can have a heartfelt gesture without having to plan months in advance. Take a look at some Last Minute ideas from Martha Stewart. If you aren't into making your own gifts, you can decide to take a trip. Or, you can decide not to. Why not stay home this night? Have a movie night and watch something you both would enjoy. Set up some popcorn, or any treats and refreshments that are desired to set the mood. Do you need more ideas? Check out some date ideas, or make some of your own with a little inspiration.  
     Valentine's Day doesn't have to be a day you ignore because you are single. Why not take the opportunity to show yourself some love? Treat yourself to a day of recognition and appreciation. Be positive! You can spend time with friends or family. Buy yourself some treats, be it some actual sweets or some new shoes. Take a trip somewhere, and enjoy yourself!
     Hopefully, these ideas will give you the incentive to take time to appreciate those you love, including yourself!

Winter Wonders, Winter Worries

    It's the winter season, and imperative that one prepares for the possibility of inclement weather. Over the next few days, winter storm named "Nemo" will be threatening the well being of over 1 million people. Reports of high levels of snow in the northeastern region of the United States have forced residents to take precautions. Meteorologists fear this storm may have a substantial impact as deep as the winter storm of 1978, also during the month of February. Travel in the potentially affected areas is ill-advised and it is strongly recommended that citizens remain indoors. If travel is a must, it is suggested to utilize public transportation, but this may not be a safe alternative if the use of this type of transportation is interrupted or even delayed. You can watch the local news, The Weather Channel, or you can visit the website www.weather.com and type your location in the search panel for updates on the winter storm "Nemo".

    With the storm in progress, a blizzard warning is in effect for certain areas. There are ways to prepare for the coming storm. Certain supplies can provide comfort and assistance to braving the cold weather:

• Snow shovels
• Sufficient clothing and blankets
• Ice melting products, and sand
• Emergency kit stocked with supplies
• Canned food and water

    During the storm, there are certain measures to be taken to maintain a safe environment as well:

• Stay inside
• Stay as dry as possible
• Minimize travelling and, if absolutely necessary, travel by day
• If you have to shovel snow, stretch beforehand to avoid harming yourself and try to work within your limits, so don't over do it

    For more tips on how to prepare for the winter storm, visit http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather.