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$8 Million Shortfall in Arlington

Budget official says the forecast is difficult but manageable.

Arlington County is facing a $8 million shortfall heading into the next budget season, which will unfold over the next few months as County Board members consider the county manager's proposed budget early next year.

The Holiday Blues: Cope and Prevent

Mental health experts say being realistic and seeking support can help you avoid holiday stress and depression.

While the holiday season is filled with parties, shopping, decorating and other festive activities, mental health experts say it often brings unwelcome guests as well: stress and depression. While they can be difficult to manage when one is in the midst of a bout, with a few strategies one may be able to prevent both before they ruin the holiday season.

Combating Holiday Stress

Local experts suggest turning to yoga and meditation to relax.

Marybeth Montoro says her entire body relaxed as she lay stretched out on a yoga mat for savasana, a relaxation pose, at Pure Prana Yoga Studio in Alexandria, while her yoga instructor guided the class through a breathing practice.

Annual Holiday Design Event Supports Garden Club Programs

Arlington’s Rock Spring Garden Club held its fourth annual Holiday Design Event on Thursday, Nov. 21, attracting a sold-out crowd of more than 200 to watch experts demonstrate how to craft a variety of floral arrangements for Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day.

It’s Time to Celebrate Christmas in Clifton

Parade, homes tour to be held on Saturday, Dec. 7.

Twinkling lights, the sound of caroling, a parade on horseback and beautifully decorated houses in a storybook setting – all that and more means Christmas in Clifton. And the public’s invited to join in the fun on Saturday, Dec. 7.

Weichert Realtors Recognizes Fair Oaks Office and Top Associate

Bruce L. Green, regional vice president of Weichert, Realtors, announced the Fair Oaks office was recognized for outstanding performance in October.

Animal Shelter’s Black Fur-Day

The Fairfax County Animal Shelter is holding its own version of Black Friday, on Nov. 29, called Black Fur-Day. The shelter will be open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and fees will be waived that day on adoptions of all black and mostly-black dogs and cats. Black and darker-colored animals take longer to be adopted, so this special promotion is to bring them extra attention.

Finding Childcare Providers

Fairfax-based Infant Toddler Family Day Care turns 30.

The Infant Toddler Family Day Care Program of Fairfax helps parents find the best possible childcare provider in the area. It currently serves 360 children, and celebrated its 30th Anniversary on Oct. 13, with a dinner at the Fairfax Marriott.

Weichert, Realtors’ Burke/Fairfax Station Office Recognizes Top Associate

Sales Associate Youssef Zeroual of the Burke/Fairfax Station office was individually recognized for his exceptional industry success during the month of October, as announced by Bruce L. Green, regional vice president of Weichert, Realtors.

Navigating Local Holiday Craft Shows

Supporting local artisans and getting one-of-a-kind gifts

Madeline Marzilli plans to start making her Christmas list right after her Thanksgiving house guests leave this weekend. On her list will be one-of-a-kind items for family and friends that she hopes to pick up at some of the local holiday craft shows.

Keeping the "Thanks" in Thanksgiving

Focusing on gratitude on a day reserved for feasting.

"Pilgrims," said James, 5, as his mother helped him fasten his helmet for a hockey lesson at the Cabin John Ice Rink near Potomac. "Turkey and pie," said his 6-year-old classmate Aiden. Both boys were responding to a question about the meaning of Thanksgiving.

Creating a Beautiful Thanksgiving Table

Local designers offer suggestions for laying the perfect tablescape.

While food preparation can be all-consuming on Thanksgiving Day, the table décor also plays a major role in a Turkey Day feast. Whether your style is subdued and casual or chic and sophisticated, local designers offer ideas and inspiration for table settings that are as delectable as the meal itself.

Holiday Homes Tour Set for Dec. 7

Annual tour features five homes, will be walkable for the first time.

The Town of Herndon will host its annual Holiday Homes Tour Saturday, Dec. 7, giving visitors a chance to explore five residences and the visions of their owners.

Inventor Sets Sights on Sprinkler Savings

Michael Lehmann develops device, algorithm to detect rainfall.

Rain brings with it a lot of headaches, but for Michael Lehmann, rowing coach at Langley High School, one thing bothers him most of all: driving through the rain and seeing automatic lawn sprinklers going all out, watering an already saturated lawn.

Housing Trends Continue, With Exceptions

Realtors optimistic with increasing prices and low rates, despite uncertainty among buyers and sellers.

In the spring of 2012, one of the greatest fears and biggest question marks for Realtors in Northern Virginia was the potential effects of Sequestration on the market.

The Connection