Check out my books on light-sails.
 Light-sail spacecraft are somewhere in the exotic between chemical rockets and concepts like warp-drives and wormhole shortcuts through space-time.
 Oddly enough, light-sails of the kinds I have conceptually develop experience negative drive. The faster they go the greater is their ship-frame acceleration perhaps infinite vectors and Lorentz factors.
 To see how, consider browsing my related intellectual property.
 Some of my light-sail books are about 2 million pages in length. So these books are all only available as down-loadable pdfs.

THE MONOLITHIC CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHT-SAIL.
 by James M Essig
 <a href="https://www.xlibris.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/804023-the-monolithic-christmas-tree-light-sail" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xlibris.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/804023-the-monolithic-christmas-tree-light-sail</a>
 The Monolithic Christmas Tree Light-Sail Expanded Edition
<a href="https://www.xlibris.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/818931-the-monolithic-christmas-tree-light-sail" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xlibris.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/818931-the-monolithic-christmas-tree-light-sail</a>
 by James M Essig
 The Monolithic Christmas Tree Light-Sail. Volume 2.
by James Essig
<a href="https://www.xlibris.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/823685-the-monolithic-christmas-tree-light-sail" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xlibris.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/823685-the-monolithic-christmas-tree-light-sail</a>
 The Monolithic Christmas Tree Light-Sail. Volume 3.
 by James Essig
 <a href="https://www.xlibris.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/834923-the-monolithic-christmas-tree-light-sail-volume-3" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xlibris.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/834923-the-monolithic-christmas-tree-light-sail-volume-3</a>
 The Monolithic Christmas Tree Light Sail. Volume 4
 by James Essig
 <a href="https://www.xlibris.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/846134-the-monolithic-christmas-tree-light-sail-volume-4" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xlibris.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/846134-the-monolithic-christmas-tree-light-sail-volume-4</a>
 The Monolithic Christmas Tree Light-Sail. Volume 5.
 by James Essig
 <a href="https://www.xlibris.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/861899-the-monolithic-christmas-tree-light-sail-volume-5" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xlibris.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/861899-the-monolithic-christmas-tree-light-sail-volume-5</a>
 The Monolithic Christmas Tree Light-Sail. Volume 6.
 by James Essig
 <a href="https://www.xlibris.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/861936-the-monolithic-christmas-tree-light-sail-volume-6" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xlibris.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/861936-the-monolithic-christmas-tree-light-sail-volume-6</a>
 The Monolithic Christmas Tree Light-Sail. Volume 7.
 by James Essig
 <a href="https://www.xlibris.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/867773-the-monolithic-christmas-tree-light-sail-volume-7" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xlibris.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/867773-the-monolithic-christmas-tree-light-sail-volume-7</a>

Fairfax County

Michael O'Connell

Washington Metropolitan Area

Fairfax City

Virginia

My light-sail starship books. I am a GMU grad...

My light-sail starship books. I am a GMU grad student.

Northern Virginia's climate is hard on an outdoor deck. Summers are hot and humid, winters bring repeated freeze-thaw cycles, and spring and fall swing between heavy rain and dry stretches. For Fairfax County homeowners planning a deck, the surface material has to stand up to all of it, season after season.
Modern capped composite and PVC decking were engineered with these conditions in mind. Understanding how each responds to local weather helps explain why they have become a default choice for low-maintenance outdoor living across the region.
<ul>
<li>Moisture and humidity: Capped composite wraps a protective polymer shell around its core, which limits how much water the board takes on. PVC is fully synthetic, so it resists moisture even more, an advantage in shaded or low-lying spots where boards stay damp longer.</li>
<li>Heat and sun: Local summers bring strong UV exposure. Capped surfaces are built to resist fading and hold their color far longer than untreated material, though darker boards run warmer underfoot in direct afternoon sun.</li>
<li>Freeze and thaw: The same winter freeze-thaw cycle that drives footing-depth rules also stresses the surface above. Boards that absorb less water are less prone to the swelling and surface damage that moisture-driven cycles can cause.</li>
</ul>
A few practical notes for local homeowners. Color affects comfort: lighter tones stay cooler in summer, while darker tones can feel hot on bare feet, so it helps to notice how the sun crosses the space before choosing a board color. And because these boards are low-maintenance rather than no-maintenance, an annual rinse and occasional gentle cleaning keep them performing as designed.
The substructure decisions made early in a project tend to get the most attention, but the surface is what a household actually lives on every day. Matching that material to Northern Virginia's swings between humidity, heat, and hard winters is one of the simpler ways to add years of comfortable use to a new deck. Valer Deck and Patio9990 Fairfax Blvd #410, Fairfax, VA 22030571-215-7364<a href="https://valerbuilders.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow">https://valerbuilders.com/</a>

Fairfax city

Fairfax

How Northern Virginia's Climate Affects the...

Northern Virginia's climate is hard on an outdoor deck. Summers are hot and humid, winters bring repeated freeze-thaw cycles, and spring and fall...

How Northern Virginia's Climate Affects the Deck Boards You Choose

Patch AM Team

George Mason

Long Branch

Mantua

Oakton

Kings Park West

Fair Oaks

Merrifield

Burke Centre

Michelle Witte

Vienna

Rocklands Barbeque & Grilling Company

Purely social Happy hour.&nbsp; Though one of the 3 northern Virginia Congressional candidates might be there, or their petitioners collecting signatures to get them on the ballot.&nbsp; But mainly it's beer and BBQ.

Local Event: Libertarian Happy Hour

Arlington County

Arlington

Libertarian Happy Hour

Purely social Happy hour.  Though one of the 3 northern Virginia Congressional candidates might be there, or their petitioners...

Fireman's Field Complex, 250 S. Nursery Ave., Purcellville, VA, 20132

The annual Purcellville Wine and Food Festival returns on Saturday, July 18, in Dillon’s Woods at the historic Fireman’s Field Complex (250 S. Nursery Avenue, Purcellville). The festival will take place from 2 to 8 p.m., inviting guests to gather with family and friends for an afternoon and evening of local wine, beer, food, live music, art, and more.
This year’s event will showcase 40 vendors, including wineries, breweries, food and snack vendors, and local exhibitors. Enjoy live music performances by the Rick Reaves Band, The Darby Brothers, and the Franklin Park Big Band. The “Arts in the Garden” section, hosted by the Purcellville Arts Council, will highlight local artists who will create works of art live on-site. Additional activities include face painting and a photo stand-in booth. 
Early bird ticket pricing is available through 5 p.m. on July 17: 
• Early bird admission (ages 17 and over): $5 (+ tax) 
• Early bird drink tickets (6 oz wine or 12 oz beer): $8.50 (+ tax) 
• Early bird drink ticket package: 4 tickets for $32 (+ tax) 
• Early bird bottle of wine purchase: $35 (+ tax), available from participating wineries (bottles must be consumed on-site)
A souvenir glass will be provided with the purchase of the first drink ticket. Save time and money by purchasing your tickets in advance. 
The popular VIP experience returns for $275 (+ tax) and includes admission for six, a reserved table for six, three bottles of local wine, six souvenir glasses, six drink tickets, early entry to the festival, special commemorative gifts, and a selection of sweets and savories for the table. 
Tickets and VIP tables are available for purchase at <a href="https://www.PurcellvilleWineAndFood.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">www.PurcellvilleWineAndFood.com</a>. Guests are encouraged to make a weekend of it and explore local lodging and attractions. Check the Accommodations page of the festival website, as well as the Visit Loudoun website, for more information.
 The Purcellville Wine and Food Festival is hosted by Purcellville Parks and Recreation and Loudoun Brewing Company, with support from Visit Loudoun, Renewal by Andersen, Harris Teeter, Prince William Home Improvement, truHealthNow, Valley Energy, Loudoun Brewing Company, Bush Tabernacle, MotoMember, and OHM Productions. Sponsorship opportunities remain available. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.PurcellvilleWineAndFood.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">www.PurcellvilleWineAndFood.com</a>

Local Event: Purcellville Wine and Food Festival

Loudoun County

Leesburg

Purcellville Wine and Food Festival

The annual Purcellville Wine and Food Festival returns on Saturday, July 18, in Dillon’s Woods at the historic Fireman’s Field...

WJ Dance & Entertainment is a premier dance studio and enter

WJ Dance Youth

WJ Dance &amp; Entertainment is a premier dance studio and entertainment agency located in Tysons, Virginia. Serving the DMV area, the studio provides a comprehensive range of dance instruction and event production services for students and community members alike. With a physical presence at 8603 Westwood Center Dr, Suite 205 in Vienna, the organization has established itself as a central hub for dance education and performance. The studio specializes in a diverse array of styles, including K-Pop, Hip-Hop, Jazz Funk, and Contemporary dance, catering to all skill levels from beginners to professionals. Beyond weekly classes, WJ Dance offers structured youth programs, summer camps, and master workshops designed to foster skill development and artistic growth. Their entertainment division further expands their reach by producing large-scale events, including music festivals and themed club nights. With over 1,500 active members, WJ Dance &amp; Entertainment is a trusted leader in the local dance community. Customers can expect a supportive and professional environment that balances high-quality technical training with engaging, community-focused entertainment experiences.

McLean

WJ Dance & Entertainment is a premier dance studio and entertainment agency located in Tysons, Virginia. Serving the DMV area, the studio provides...

Primary care in Fairfax, Tysons, S.Riding. Urgent Care FrOks

Prima Medicine

Top rated customer service focused primary care service in Fairfax and Loudoun county with 5 locations. Urgent care in fair oaks area. Also offer weight Managemnt, dietician services and endocrinologist. 

Top rated customer service focused primary care service in Fairfax and Loudoun county with 5 locations. Urgent care in fair oaks area. Also offer...

We Sell & Rent Mobility Equipment and Bath Safety Products.

EZ Mobility Company

The EZ Mobility Company sells, rents, and delivers trusted mobility equipment and bathroom safety products to support the comfort, dignity, safety, and independence of mobility challenged individuals. Serving Springfield, VA and the surrounding Northern Virginia areas. We're in the heart of Springfield, right behind the Shell Gas Station on Backlick Rd, across the street from the Outback Steakhouse! Come see our showroom! We Sell and Rent •	Manual Wheelchairs •	Power Wheelchairs •	Mobility Scooters •	Electric Hospital Beds •	Lift Recliner Chairs •	Walkers and Rollators •	Crutches and Canes •	Bathroom Safety Products About Us •	We service Individuals, Hospitals, Nursing Homes and More. •	We Service Springfield and surrounding areas •	We offer Weekend and Same-Day Delivery •	We offer a Rent-To-Own Option Address: 7011 Calamo St. #103. Springfield, VA. 22150 Phone: (703) 436-8883 Email: info@ezmobilityco.com Website: www.ezmobilityco.com Showroom Hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm Saturday: 10am - 2pm Closed On Sundays and Holidays Online and Phone Hours: 10am - 7pm Daily

Springfield

The EZ Mobility Company sells, rents, and delivers trusted mobility equipment and bathroom safety products to support the comfort, dignity, safety,...

Neutral Ground Counseling Group

At Neutral Ground Counseling Group in Fairfax City, we provide high-quality, affordable mental health services for individuals, couples, teens, families, and groups. With multiple fee options starting at $50 per session and in-network coverage with TRICARE East, Aetna, Anthem BCBS, and Carelon, we make therapy accessible without compromising quality. Our clinicians support clients facing anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, life transitions, neurodivergence (including ADHD and Autism Spectrum concerns), relationship difficulties, identity exploration, substance-use challenges, and other mental health struggles. We are deeply committed to serving military service members, veterans, and their families, offering care that honors the unique stressors of deployment, reintegration, relocation, and family adjustment. We also specialize in LGBTQIA2+ affirming therapy, providing a safe space for gender-diverse individuals and those navigating identity, transition, or relationship concerns. Our practice offers individual and couples therapy as well as group programs, including domestic-violence recovery groups and mindfulness-based, acceptance-focused programs such as EMAP. Clients can access therapy in person in Fairfax or online throughout Virginia, Washington, DC, and Colorado. Our team includes licensed clinicians and Residents-in-Counseling under expert supervision, allowing us to offer a wide range of specialties and price points to meet diverse needs. Neutral Ground Counseling Group is a welcoming and inclusive practice where your story is heard, your strengths are honored, and your path forward is supported. Reach out today—affordable, compassionate care is available.

At Neutral Ground Counseling Group in Fairfax City, we provide high-quality, affordable mental health services for individuals, couples, teens,...

Complimentary Home Equity Review - Call 703-407-2113

Kathy Sparks - Team Sparks Realty Group, Inc.

Still believing in the power of homeownership after 40 years of guiding hundreds of Northern Virginia neighbors through every type of market. Whether it’s your first home or next chapter, I’m here and still loving it. Grateful to every client who’s trusted me along the way. Ready for your next chapter? Let’s make this the best year yet...can’t wait to hear from you! Call or text Kathy 703-407-2113 Brokered by Samson Properties. Search Homes for Sale http://HomeInFairfax.com/ or a quick online Home Value Report at http://HouseValue.homeinfairfax.com/

Still believing in the power of homeownership after 40 years of guiding hundreds of Northern Virginia neighbors through every type of market....

Discover a new way to find your wedding venue in NoVa!

Grapevine Vows

Word on the vine is… Grapevine Vows is the first of its kind—turning wedding venue shopping into a fun, guided vineyard tour. Join us for a day of wine tastings, stunning views, and stress-free venue visits across multiple wineries. Why juggle endless calls and scattered site tours when you can sip, stroll, and explore your dream venues all in one unforgettable day? 🍷 Perfect for engaged couples (bring your fiancé, your parents, or your wedding party!) 📍 Tours feature some of the region’s most beautiful wineries ✨ Save time, money, and stress—while actually enjoying the process Learn more and join the experience today. Tours on most weekends and fill up fast!

Clifton

Word on the vine is… Grapevine Vows is the first of its kind—turning wedding venue shopping into a fun, guided vineyard tour. Join us for a day of...

Hands-On Home Improvement Workshops - Fair Oaks Mall

TradeWorx Academy

TradeWorx Academy is Northern Virginia’s hands-on home improvement training center, located inside Fair Oaks Mall. We help homeowners, DIYers, and beginners build the skills and confidence to take on real projects—not just watch someone else do them online. Our workshops are taught by licensed contractors who know how to make home improvement approachable, practical, and fun. From tile work and drywall repair to backsplash installation, power tools, plumbing basics, and minor electrical, each class is designed to help you understand the process, use the right tools, ask better questions, and feel more capable in your own home. With small class sizes, every participant receives hands-on instruction, direct access to the instructor, and the opportunity to practice skills in a supportive, beginner-friendly environment. At TradeWorx Academy, our mission is simple: empower people with practical knowledge, help them save money on home projects, and give them the confidence that comes from learning how to do it the right way. Visit [www.TradeWorxAcademy.com](http://www.TradeWorxAcademy.com) to explore upcoming workshops, reserve your spot, and see why TradeWorx Academy is changing the way Northern Virginia learns DIY.

TradeWorx Academy is Northern Virginia’s hands-on home improvement training center, located inside Fair Oaks Mall. We help homeowners, DIYers, and...

🌞 **Beat the Heat with Bruno's Bounce House Rentals!** 🌊

Bruno's Bounce House

🌞 **Beat the Heat With Bruno's Bounce House Rentals!** 🌊 Looking for the perfect way to cool off this summer? Look no further! Bruno’s Bounce House LLC is thrilled to offer **exciting waterslide rentals** and **bounce house rentals** delivered straight to your doorstep in Haymarket! 🎉 **Why Choose Us?** - **Fun for All Ages:** Our waterslides and bounce houses provide endless entertainment for kids and adults alike! - **Safe &amp; Clean:** We prioritize safety andleanliness, ensuring that every rental is thoroughly sanitized. - **Easy Delivery:** We handle all the setup and takedown, so you can focus on having fun! 🌟 **Special Offer:** Book your rental now and enjoy a special discount for local Haymarket residents! Don’t let the heat get you down—make your next event unforgettable with Bruno's Bounce House! Contact us today to reserve your rental and beat the summer heat! 📞 **Call Now:** 703-594-1587 🌐 **Visit Us:** www.brunosbouncehouse.com Let the fun begin! 🎈

Prince William County

Haymarket

🌞 **Beat the Heat With Bruno's Bounce House Rentals!** 🌊 Looking for the perfect way to cool off this summer? Look no further! Bruno’s Bounce House...

🌱 How a Fairfax City parking lot assault led to...

Also, don’t miss Sip Into Summer At Sunrise! - Networking Event on the Fairfax Patch calendar

🌱 How a Fairfax City parking lot assault led to quick arrest

Community Corner

🌱 What Fairfax loses—and gains—now that police...

Also check out Sip Into Summer At Sunrise! - Networking Event on the Fairfax Patch calendar

🌱 What Fairfax loses—and gains—now that police radios are encrypted

Supreme Court Justice's NoVA Home Targeted In...

Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett's home was the subject of a swatting hoax on Wednesday. 

Supreme Court Justice's NoVA Home Targeted In Swatting Attempt: Reports

Supreme Court Justice's VA Home Targeted In Swatting Attempt

Crime & Safety

Fairfax Public Speaking Teacher Makes Lasting...

From a brand partner: Sumedha Bahri helped one student become more comfortable speaking in front of classmates.

Fairfax Public Speaking Teacher Makes Lasting Impact On Student Confidence

Schools

Single-Car Crash Leaves 2 Adults Dead, 2...

Detectives believe speed was a factor in the fatal single-car accident.

Nearby Communities

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Discover more in Fairfax

Find and sell treasures, hire and offer services. All in your community

Fairfax City, VA|Featured Classified|Announcement|2d

My light-sail starship books. I am a GMU grad student.

Fairfax, VA|Local Classified|Gigs & Services|Jun 17

How Northern Virginia's Climate Affects the Deck Boards You Choose

Libertarian Happy Hour

Purcellville Wine and Food Festival

My light-sail starship books. I am a GMU grad student.

WJ Dance Youth

Prima Medicine

EZ Mobility Company

Neutral Ground Counseling Group

Kathy Sparks - Team Sparks Realty Group, Inc.

Grapevine Vows

TradeWorx Academy

Bruno's Bounce House