Screen shot of shopsavvy in action. (Courtesy of apple.com)

ShopSavvy gathers retailers’ locations, directions to and fro, and phone numbers. A blue dot next to the item signifies whether or not it is in stock. The app even shows the merchant’s price-matching policy to see if a closer retailer will match the lower price of a store located further away.

Shopping for a friend? Whether your’re intentionally shopping for a friend or accidentally stumble upon an item you know your friend would love, you can share the information about the product through email, facebook or twitter.

Through this application users can view shipping promotions, coupon codes, rebates, sales and available contests.

Friday, February 3, 2012

Valentine’s Day candy banned in Loudoun County Public Schools

WJLA

Virginia House to vote on gay adoption bill 

WUSA9

Middleburg Academy shut down after chemical spill

WUSA9

Illegal immigrant who killed Prince William County nun awaits sentencing

WJLA

Legislators debate over Virginia state song

Loudoun Times-Mirror

President Obama visits NoVA for the second time this week

WTOP

(Compiled by Lindsey Leake)

Miroslav Halama/Shutterstock.com

Yesterday Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, so that means six more weeks of winter for us! Are you positive, Phil, no early spring? It’s sure felt like it the past few days…

In honor of the film “Groundhog Day,” we made a list of paradisiacal events that could stand repeating, and some dreadful ones that ended not a moment too soon.

Bad days that fortunately ended—and one that still hasn’t:
• Jan. 26, 2011 snowstorm: The meager snowfall somehow turned into a hellish 12-hour commute for many. Luckily, the Office of Personnel Management for federal workers has a novel solution—either leave at the exact moment they tell you to, or “shelter in place” at your office. Perhaps more effective: Pray you’re not stuck in a time loop when a disaster like this strikes again.
• 2011 Virginia earthquake: It’s unclear which was more annoying—the earthquake itself or the endless torrent of whining about it on Facebook and Twitter that followed immediately thereafter. Probably the latter.

Good days we wouldn’t mind getting stuck in:
• Jan. 26, 1992: The date of the Redskins’ last Super Bowl win. Enough said.
• New Year’s Eve: Your inebriated, ill-advised resolutions would live in perpetual success, unless you were to break them by midnight.
• Fairfax Chocolate Lovers Festival: No one needs an excuse to engorge himself or herself on chocolate, but being surrounded by the stuff at this annual event is too fun.

Wishful Days–These events aren’t real, but we wish we could experience them:
• Wear Whatever You Want Day: OK, it would be an eyesore. But at least you’d be comfortable.
• Erase The Speed Limit Day: Deadly for sure, but it would ease traffic a bit.
• 1950s Day: Everyone’s digging retro fashions. Why not?

Triviahog
Began in Pennsylvania sometime in the late 1800s. Punxsutawney Phil’s year-round caretakers are known as the “Inner Circle.” Each member wears a top hat and tuxedo.

Marmot Day
Then-Governor Sarah Palin signed a bill in 2009 declaring every Feb. 2 in Alaska as Marmot Day, since groundhogs are uncommon in the state. The idea behind the holiday remains the same.

—Matt Basheda

So if you want to avoid any and all couples, or if you can’t stand the sight of any more frilly red paper hearts, or if you feel like Niles here, you’ve come to the right blog.

First of all, if you’re single and lonely, surround yourself with friends.  Go out somewhere free of romance.  Avoid restaurants of all kinds.  I recommend a concert.  You can bop around to the music to get your mind off pretty much anything.  In fact, Jammin Java‘s hosting a Valentine’s show tailor-made for those unhappy in love.

The Morrissey/Smiths Valentine show is the perfect event to avoid all the Valentine’s trappings.  There will be no lovey-dovey absurdity at this show; that much is guaranteed.

Other anti-love songs to jam to:  “There’s No Home for You Here,” by The White Stripes; “It Ain’t Me Babe,” by Bob Dylan; “Unsatisfied,” by the Replacements.  And there’s plenty more where those came from.

Or watch one of your favorite movies.  Comedies are preferable — laughter is the best medicine.  You really can’t ever go wrong with “Dumb and Dumber.”

If you’re a couple looking to stay out of the V-Day game, it’s still cool to go out, but don’t make your destination date-ish.  Having dinner together is usually fine, but not on this day — hordes of sickeningly cute sweethearts licking each others’ faces in public is not good for anyone.

Better to grab some Five Guys and go bowling.  Even a movie is acceptable, as long as you steer clear of romance.  The new “Sherlock Holmes” is an exceptional mystery, and it’s still playing in Tysons.

And if you’re single but not lonely, then I don’t even need to give you any advice.  Keep on truckin’.

However, we’ll continue the Valentine’s Day coverage until the 14th.  Keep a particular eye out for our movie-dedicated post, coming up on Friday, Feb. 10.  We’ll have more suggestions for both sides of the V-Day fence.

And don’t forget — we’ve posted a ton of stuff already.  Cool craft ideas, friendly dates, a guide and an entire calendar.

L’Auberge chez Francois (Photo Courtesy James Kim)

Great Falls’ legendary L’Auberge Chez François is the place to dine with that special someone during this romantic month. Here are some other items to get you in the mood.

Kate Apron, Hysteria, shophysteria.com, $250

Ferragamo Jeanette Lace Clutch, Bloomingdale’s, www.bloomingdales.com, $1,090

Sondra Roberts ‘Rose’ Satin Box Clutch, Nordstrom, www.shop.nordstrom.com, $98

John Robshaw Arial Pillow, Red Barn Merchantile, redbarnmercantile.com, $240

Year of Color September Ring, Kate Spade, www.katespade.com, $78

Starry-Eyed Skirt, Anthropologie, www.anthropologie.com, $128

Statement Tray by Mariposa, The Nest Egg, thenestegg.bigcartel.com, $39

Wood and Metal Wine Holder with Chalkboard, Wine Rack Station, www.winerackstation.com, $100.95

James Kim (L’Auberge chez Francois); courtesy of cape craftsman (wine rack); courtesy of anthropologie (skirt); courtesy of the nest egg (tray ); courtesy of john robshaw (pillow); Courtesy Of kate spade (ring); courtesy of nordstrom (rose clutch); Courtesy of hysteria (apron); courtesy of bloomingdale’s (clutch)

Photo Courtesy of Jessie M. Photography

By Lexie Ramage

The Shenandoah Valley provides a respite where love can blossom.

Imagine the views as you fly over mountains on a romantic getaway with that special someone this Valentine’s Day. Airplanes are hardly romantic, but hot air balloon rides are the very definition. Hot air ballooning at Valley Ballooning is an unbeatable way to take in breathtaking Shenandoah Valley sights like the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Appalachian Mountains, t he seven bends of the Shenandoah River, area vineyards and even some wildlife. You can ride solo or in a group of up to eight, making it a great Valentine’s Day gift for everyone. Through March 15, take in the views along with a delicious hot drink.
603 Cobb Court, Woodstock; 540-975-0192; www.valleyballooning.com

Bed & Breakfast (Photo Courtesy of Jumping Rocks)

L’Auberge Provençale Bed and Breakfast
If you’re looking for the perfect bed & breakfast for Valentine’s Day, check out L’Auberge Provençale Bed and Breakfast. This French countryside B&B features a spacious porch, perfect for relaxing with a glass of wine, and an award-winning French restaurant.
13630 Lord Fairfax Highway, White Post; 800-638-1702; www.laubergeprovencale.com

North Mountain Vineyards
If you’re a wine connoisseur or just want a romantic stroll in a vineyard, North Mountain Vineyards is the place to be. They provide tours, tastings, have decks with panoramic views and gardens of flowers.
4374 Swartz Road, Maurertown; 540-436-9463; www.northmountainvineyard.com

Winery (Photo Courtesy of Seth Freeman)

Highlander Horses and Burke Family Farm
A romantic trip wouldn’t be complete without horseback riding. Highlander Horses is by appointment only, but it’s worth it for the miles of riding ground. Ride through the woods, over hills and through water. Gourmet picnic baskets may also be ordered.
5197 Reliance Road, Front Royal; 540-636-4523; highlanderhorses.com

Mane Attraction Salon & Wellness Spa
Mane Attraction will give both you and that special someone some much-deserved pampering. They have couples services and treatments, including massages, a sauna, wraps, facials and more.
170 Costello Drive, Winchester; 540-667-0180; maneattractionspa.com

The Woodstock Cafe & Shoppes
Find the perfect unique gift at The Woodstock Cafe & Shoppes. They often have events throughout the week. They also have a large selection of beer and wine.
117 S. Main St., Woodstock; 540-459-8888; www.cafeshoppes.com

Photo Courtesy of The Inn At Little Washington

The Inn at Little Washington
The Inn at Little Washington is perfect for the history buff, the foodie or the romantic. See why this nationally famous inn and restaurant has received numerous awards and is on many a must-try list.
Middle & Main Streets, Washington; 540-675-3800; www.theinnatlittlewashington.com

Nothing is cuter than those pink gloves and wrinkled nose. / Photo courtesy of Shutterstock/ Losevsky Pavel

See a Show or Concert: There are a good number of plays, skits, concerts and shows all around Northern Virginia, so we’ve listed a few below. This could be a fun time to try something the kids haven’t seen before: Opera? Bluegrass? Whatever the entertainment may be, the point is to spend quality time together and enjoy each other’s company. Check out our events calendar for more goings-on in the area!

‘Three Bears’ A Cappella Comedy
Feb. 9 –Mar. 4. Tyson’s Corner’s award-winning professional theater, 1st Stage, along with First Draft at Charter Theater presents a musical play that offers a comedic twist on the classic fairy tale. The show is fast-paced and fun for the whole family, ages 5 and up. / 1st Stage, 1524 Spring Hill Road, McLean; 703-854-1856; $15, group discounts available.

The Big Meow
Feb.11 @ 4 p.m. This show is perfect for the kids. Jane Franklin Dance presents The Big Meow (adapted from the book by Baltimore author Elizabeth Spires) where Little Cat, who desperately wants to belong to the group, is taunted by the neighborhood felines because his meow is too loud. / Theatre on the Run, 3700 S Four Mile Run Drive, Arlington; 703-933-1111; $15 adults, $10 children.

Kim and Reggie Harris
Feb. 11 @ 1p.m. and 3 p.m. Consummate musicians and storytellers, Kim and Reggie Harris combine a strong folk and gospel legacy with a solid background in classical, rock, jazz and pop music. Creative curiosity, years of road and stage experience and interactions with performers such as Pete Seeger, Ysaye Barnwell, Jay Leno, Tom Paxton, Bernice Johnson Reagon, Harry Belafonte and others, has led them to produce music that entertains and inspires. / The Institute of Musical Traditions, Takoma Park Community Center Auditorium, 7500 Maple Ave, Takoma Park, MD; 301-754-3611; $10 advance, $12 door.

That’s Amore Valentine’s Day Concert
Feb. 14 @ 7 p.m. Introducing children to opera through local outreach, the Opera Guild of Northern Virginia is hosting this kid-friendly Valentines concert with familiar operatic classics in Italian, French, German, and English, famous love songs, and That’s Amore Sing-Along finale. Proceed support Children’s Opera Productions. / NRECA Building, 4301Wilson Blvd, Arlington; Suggested donations $10-$28.

Dr. Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys
Feb. 11 @ 8 p.m. A living bluegrass legend from rural southwestern Virginia, banjoist Dr. Ralph Stanley has been playing for over 60 years and the Clinch Mountain Boys have been together since 1946. Preserving old-timey bluegrass and traditional mountain tunes, Stanley has won a Grammy for his work on the “O Brother Where Art Thou” soundtrack, and was the first inductee into Grand Ole Opry in the 21st century. / Hylton Performing Arts Center, 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas; 888-945-2468; $30-$46.

They are already pros. / Photo courtesy of Shutterstock/ Len44ik

Photo Shoots! Many local photographers offer holiday specials for discounts or great deals on family photo packages. Valentine’s Day is a day for love, and what better way to celebrate than to capture how much your family means to you than with a beautiful, happy photo.

Don’t want to spend so much money? Create your own photoshoot!
Have your kids help you decorate by cutting out paper heart garland, use red and pink confetti or glitter, use cute handmade props (heart shaped valentines or doily-stenciled t-shirts). Get creative with your outfit choices—highlighting red, white, or pink. Put on fun music. Stay in your house or travel somewhere close by. Use black and white for a classic feel or celebrate the colors—whatever you choose, just have a good time capturing their smiles!

You can opt for the traditional route of framing with your favorite style of frame to hang on the wall or add to your bedside collection, or get the kids to help decorate the frames with a Valentine’s Day theme of their own. You can even print multiple copies of the pictures so your kids can have one in their room, too!

Send them some love.. in their lunchboxes! A sweet treat and a quick note will brighten anyone’s day. FamilyFun.go.com is an excellent resource for craft ideas, including easy valentines. I mean, how cute are these? (These ideas can also double for neighbors, friends, even your significant other! They are thoughtful, but simple, and can really put a smile on their face.)

Caped lollipops: Use card stock or construction paper to make a cape underneath the head of the lolly. The cape makes a perfect spot for a sweet message, too!

An awesome treat for the superhero in your life. / Photo courtesy of Familyfun.go.com

Gnome kisses: Wrap felt around the pointy end of a chocolate kiss as a “hat,” glue (small) googly eyes along the bottom edge, and add a surprise message underneath!

How can you resist those googly eyes? / Photo courtesy of Familyfun.go.com

Crafts Around the House:
Love Note on a Toothbrush: Stick a note to greet them on their toothbrushes when they wake up, or leave it for them to find when getting ready for bed. Its a fun reminder to brush after all the candy they no doubt have enjoyed all day. Plus, all you need is card stock, some tape, stickers (if you want them), and thoughtful message! Simply write your message, add a fun sticker or two, wrap around the neck of the toothbrush, and secure with a piece of tape.

Crayon Cupcakes: A piece of advice: these are not edible. But they sure do look good enough to eat. Take the ends of used crayons, place them in a cupcake tin (complete with paper lining) and melt them into colorful cakes. Mix colors for fun combinations! Find a full recipe here.

Don’t forget about Fido! These adorable dog collar tags are the perfect way to show the furry member of your family some love for Valentine’s Day. Use foam or card stock to cut out a heart shape. Make two vertical slits to slip through the collar. You can make a hanging pendant, too.

They sure look warm and cozy / Photo courtesy of Shutterstock/ RDaniel

Ice skating: Take the whole family on a Valentine’s Day outing to try their skills on the ice rink.
Outdoor:
Reston Town Center
Harris Pavilion, Old Town Manassas
Pentagon Row

Indoor:
Fairfax Ice Arena
Ashburn Ice House
Kettler Capitals IcePlex
Mount Vernon Ice Arena
Prince William Ice Center
Skatequest Reston

Homemade Treats: After a delicious dinner, seeing a fun show, and maybe some family skating, there is nothing better than dessert.

Nothing beats chocolate covered fruit. / Photo courtesy of Shutterstock/ loriklaszlo

Chocolate Fondue: This classic treat is simple, delicious, and fully customizable to your palette and price range. You can include marshmallows, pretzels, fruit, and anything else you have in the kitchen that just begs to be dipped in chocolate. Plus, the interaction makes it the perfect ending to a family Valentine’s Day.

-Colleen Callery

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Thomas Jefferson High neurobiology students wow President Obama

WUSA9

Sterling woman pleads guilty in murder-for-hire plot

FOX DC

FBI to investigate vandalized Chantilly mosque

NBC WASHINGTON

‘Tebow Bill’ would allow Virginia home-schooled students to play for public school sports teams

FOX DC

69-year-old pedestrian killed in Reston crash

Reston Patch

McLean man sets occupied dwelling on fire

McLean Patch

(Compiled by Lindsey Leake)

sbarabu & topseller/shutterstock.com

Lovers Enjoy Sharable Dishes for Valentine’s Day

By Jennifer Whistler

A woman happily in love, she burns the souffle. A woman unhappily in love, she forgets to turn on the oven, a chef tells lovelorn Audrey Hepburn in “Sabrina.” Take the chef’s advice and let someone else take care of dinner. Treat your sweetie to one of Northern Virginia’s most romantic restaurants.

Restaurant Eve

Restaurant Eve sings with romance. From a cobblestone walkway lined with candles to plush booths inside, this Old Town fine-dining establishment offers charming service and elegant fare.

When Chef de Cuisine Jeremy Hoffman creates a special menu he uses lavish items such as caviar, truffles and foie gras. Presentation remains just as important. “I consider color a huge factor,” says Hoffman, incorporating holiday-hued beets, scarlet turnips, watermelon radish and rosewater.

Restaurant Eve, 110 S. Pitt St., Alexandria; 703-706-0450; www.restauranteve.com

L’Auberge Chez Francois

As a restaurant known for marriage proposals, celebrations and family memories, it’s no wonder locals vote L’Auberge Chez Francois as the most romantic area restaurant. Tucked away in the rolling hills of Great Falls, Head Chef Jacques Haeringer offers succulent dishes that couples can easily share. “Chateau Briand, salmon with puff pastry and rack of ribs, all made to be enjoyed together,” Haeringer says.

L’Auberge Chez Francois, 332 Springvale Road, Great Falls; 703-759-3800; www.laubergechezfrancois.com

2941

V-Day lets lovers indulge, and Chef Bertrand Chemel continues the tradition. The 2941 chef offers luxuries: “Lobster, fish, some Provencal black truffle [are all] things that people don’t get to eat very often,” Chemel explains.

After selecting five or six traditional items, such as filet mignon, the chef throws in a few surprises. Monchong anyone? “I play it 50-percent safe, 50-percent not,” jokes Chemel.

But that doesn’t mean the Falls Church resto will skimp on cocoa. Lovers can capture that cupid moment, as Chamel prepares “something for two that a couple can enjoy together.”

2941, 2941 Fairview Park Drive, Falls Church; 703-270-1500; www.2941.com

Photo credits: Anna Hoychuk/shutterstock.com (dates wrapped in bacon); Foodpictures/shutterstock.com (potatos gratin); holbox/shutterstock.com (bluefin tuna)

Get pumped for Super Bowl XLVI, Sunday’s rematch between the epic teams that faced off in 2008. Whether you are a Pat’s fan or represent NY and the Giants, we have the inside scoop on the best food and drink deals for the big game.

Arlington Cinema N Drafthouse, for the big screen experience in comfy chairs and tableside service.

Capitol City Brewing Company, for handcrafted beer.

Clare & Don’s Beach Shack, for an all you can eat buffet. ($15 pp)

Crystal City Sports Pub, for a Super Bowl themed menu. ($35 pp, reservations required)

Glory Days Grill, for burgers, wings and BBQ.

The Green Turtle, for Super Bowl giveaways.

Hard Times Café, for traditional football fun.

Jimmy’s Old Town Tavern, for football pool prizes and 50-cent wings.

Kalypso’s Sports Tavern, for $2 Miller Lite Drafts.

Kilroys Restaurant & Sports Bar, for nachos, wings and pizza.

Murphy’s Irish Pub, for the true Patriot experience.

Polo Grill Restaurant, for 35-cent wings and $2 Bud Lights and Miller Lights.

Velocity Five, for tvs galore.

Virtue Feed & Grain, for a “souper” bowl between New England and Mahattan chowders while watching the game.

Whitlows on Wilson, for the big screen and beer specials.

Wildfire, for a big game buffet. ($45 pp)

Photo by: Shutterstock/Steve Cukrov

[tips for the food desk]