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Volume 1 Issue 16 - August 25th, 2025

Updated: Aug 28

“Here’s what I know: Time must be explicitly managed, like money. You can always change your plan, but only if you have one. Ask yourself: Are you spending your time on the right things? Develop a good filing system. Rethink the telephone. Delegate. Take a time out. Time is all you have. And you may find one day that you have less than you think.” - Randy Pausch


What's the Buzz?


Grab the fam and gather 'round the kitchen table! It's time to go over what this week is going to look like. Here's what's happening across our communities this week:


On the Home Front - National News & Your Family's Well-being


Health News to Keep on Your Radar:
  • A Note on Travel and Health: You may have seen headlines about a rare "flesh-eating parasite" case in Maryland. Before we all start to panic, this was a single case of New World screwworm found in someone who had recently traveled to El Salvador. Health officials have said the risk to the general public is very low. For us, I think this is a good reminder to be mindful of our health after traveling. If you or your little ones have any open wounds, it's always a good idea to keep them clean, and if you notice any unusual symptoms after a trip, it's best to check in with your doctor.

  • Thinking of Mississippi Families: My heart goes out to the families in Mississippi. The state has declared a public health emergency because their infant mortality rate has reached its highest point in over a decade, at 9.7 deaths for every 1,000 live births. This is nearly double the national average. State health officials are working to improve prenatal and postpartum care to give more babies a healthy start in life. This is a powerful reminder of how important it is for moms and babies to have access to good healthcare and strong community support.


Staying Safe Through Wildfire Season:

For our friends and family on the West Coast, and really for all of us as we see changing weather patterns, the news about wildfires in Oregon and California is a continuing concern. This is a good time for all of us to have a family safety plan.


Here are a few things we can all do to be prepared:
  • Have a "Go-Kit": This is a bag with essentials you can grab quickly. Think a few days of supplies, including water, non-perishable food, any necessary medications, and copies of important documents.

  • Know Your Evacuation Routes: Take a few minutes to look at the different ways you could leave your neighborhood and have a designated meeting spot for your family. Oregon has a 3-level evacuation system, so it's a good idea to know what those levels mean.

  • Stay Informed: Sign up for emergency alerts in your community and keep an eye on the air quality reports. Wildfire smoke can travel a long way and affect our little ones' breathing.


The Economy and Our Family Budgets:

I know many of us are feeling the pinch at the grocery store and when we're out shopping. It seems that tariffs are starting to have an impact on the prices of everyday items.

  • Back-to-School Costs: If it felt like your back-to-school shopping list was more expensive this year, you're not alone. Prices for things like backpacks, binders, and even pencils and paper have gone up. One report mentioned that families are spending, on average, $570 per child on school supplies this year.

  • Grocery Bills: It's not just school supplies. The cost of groceries, like beef and coffee, has also been on the rise. This can be a real source of stress for families trying to stick to a budget.

It looks like for now, we'll need to continue to be savvy shoppers and look for ways to make our dollars stretch.


A Heads-Up on Education News:

There's also a story out of California that's getting some attention. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has ended a federal grant for California's Personal Responsibility Education Program (PREP), which provides sexual health education for teens. The reason given was a disagreement over the inclusion of what the department termed "gender ideology" in the curriculum. This is a topic that brings up a lot of different feelings and opinions, and it's a reminder that it's always a good idea to be aware of what our kids are learning in school.


I know this is a lot to take in, but I hope this helps you feel a little more informed about what's happening in the world around us. Remember, we're all in this together, and sharing good information is one of the ways we can support each other.


What is the news from DC concerning the occupation of military forces?

It’s a bit confusing to see military personnel in our nation's capital, and I know it can be concerning for families. Let's break down what's happening based on the latest news reports.


Over the past two weeks, President Trump has ordered a deployment of the National Guard to Washington, D.C., as part of a federal initiative focused on addressing crime. While the word "occupation" has been used by some, the official term for the mission is the "D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force".


Here are the key things to know:
  • Who is involved? The force includes about 900 members of the D.C. National Guard, along with over 1,100 additional troops from states like Louisiana, Mississippi, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, and West Virginia. In total, more than 2,000 Guard members are operating in the city.

  • What are they doing? Their duties have been described as supporting local and federal law enforcement. You might see them at transit stops, patrolling near national monuments and federal buildings, or involved in traffic control. The mission also includes participating in "community restoration" projects.

  • A recent change: A significant recent development is that as of the evening of August 24th, some of these National Guard members have begun carrying their service-issued firearms, which could be handguns or rifles. Before this, they were unarmed. Officials have stated that troops are authorized to use force only as a last resort in response to an imminent threat of serious harm.

This increased presence has definitely been noticed by residents and visitors, with some people feeling a bit on edge about it. It's a noticeable change in the city's atmosphere, and it's understandable to have questions.


I hope this helps clarify what's going on. We're all trying to navigate these changes, and the most important thing is to have the facts. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have more questions!


What can we do to help those in DC stay encouraged and know that the People of the United States have their backs?

When we see a community going through a stressful time, it's a natural and kind impulse to want to reach out and help. It really gets to the heart of what we talk about here at The Hive—building community and showing up for one another.


Seeing our nation's capital with an increased military presence, now with armed troops , can be unsettling for the families who live and work there every day. Letting them know we're thinking of them is a powerful act of support. Here are a few practical, family-friendly ideas we can all consider:


1. Support D.C.'s Local Economy One of the most direct ways to support residents is to support their livelihoods. If you're close enough for a day trip or a weekend visit, consider making a special trip into the city.

  • Shop Small: Skip the big chains and buy from small, local businesses—the corner coffee shops, independent bookstores, and neighborhood restaurants. Every dollar spent at a local business is a direct investment in that community.

  • Visit a Market: Go to a local farmers market or a craft fair. It’s a wonderful way to meet people and put money directly into the hands of local artisans and growers.


2. Lift Up D.C. Community Organizations There are incredible non-profits and mutual aid groups in Washington, D.C., that work tirelessly to support their neighbors.

  • Donate: Even a small donation can make a big difference to organizations focused on youth services, feeding families, or providing legal support. A quick search for "DC community support non-profits" can give you plenty of options.

  • Share Their Work: Use your social media to share fundraisers or posts from these D.C.-based groups. Amplifying their message helps them reach more people.


3. Amplify the Voices of Residents Instead of speaking for D.C. residents, we can "pass the mic" and help share their own stories and perspectives.

  • Follow Local Sources: Seek out and follow D.C. community leaders, neighborhood associations (known as Advisory Neighborhood Commissions or ANCs), and local journalists on social media.

  • Share Responsibly: When you see a thoughtful post, article, or video from a D.C. resident talking about their experience, share it. This helps ensure that the narrative is being shaped by the people who are actually living it.


4. Use Your Voice as a Citizen The situation in D.C. is the result of a federal decision. You can voice your thoughts to your own elected officials.

  • Contact Your Representatives: Call or write to your Representative and Senators. You can simply say that you are concerned for the residents of Washington, D.C., and that you support their right to local self-governance without federal military oversight.


5. Practice Simple, Direct Kindness Never underestimate the power of a simple, kind gesture. If you are in the city, make an extra effort to be a friendly face. A patient smile, holding a door open, or just a simple "have a good day" can go a long way in easing the tension that people might be feeling.

Ultimately, showing them we have their backs is about reminding them they aren't alone. It’s about building bridges of support from our own communities to theirs.


Things in the House

The House of Representatives is scheduled for a "State Work Period" from August 4th to September 1st.


Looking ahead to their return on Tuesday, September 2nd, it does look like there are some significant protests planned.


Here’s a breakdown of what I'm seeing from a few different groups:
  • "Remove the Regime" Event: An organization is calling for people to come to D.C. on September 2nd to give Congress a "warm welcome back".

    • Morning Activities (10 a.m.): The day is scheduled to start with guest speakers, including Jessica Denson and Representative Al Green, near Union Station. After that, the plan is to protest in front of the three Congressional office buildings and also to have groups visit every House and Senate office to speak with representatives and their staff.

    • Afternoon Protest (4 p.m.): Later in the day, the group plans to hold a protest in front of the White House to specifically bring attention to the "Epstein Files".

    • Continuing Events: These activities are planned to continue on Wednesday, September 3rd, with another protest scheduled for 4 p.m. at the AIPAC headquarters.

  • Ongoing Rush-Hour Rallies: Another group, the DC Visibility Brigadiers, has been holding recurring "Take Down Tyranny" rallies on Tuesday mornings from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.. They are currently holding these at Scott Circle and Dupont Circle to share a pro-democracy message. It's likely they will be active that morning as well.


It's important to note that the day before, Monday, September 1st, is Labor Day. There are some nationwide anti-Trump protests planned for that day under the theme "Workers Over Billionaires," and the AFL-CIO is also organizing rallies across the country.


For families in and around the D.C. area, Tuesday, September 2nd, will likely be a day with increased activity, noise, and potential for traffic disruptions, especially around Capitol Hill, Union Station, and the White House. It's always a good idea to check local news and traffic reports before heading into the city on days like this.


What the Senate is doing this week?

According to the official schedule published by the Senate, they are also set to return on Tuesday, September 2nd.


The House and the Senate have both been on their traditional August recess, which is scheduled to end after Labor Day on September 1st. So, with everyone coming back on the same day, it will certainly be a very busy week in Washington, D.C., especially with the events and protests that are planned.


Around the World - Global Events with Potential Impact

It's so important to keep an eye on what's happening around the globe, as it often affects us right here at home. Here are a few of the top world news stories that I think are important for American families to be aware of right now:


First, a new report from the United Nations has found that the number of people who have been forced to flee their homes worldwide has now surpassed 120 million. That's a staggering number, and it's an 8% increase from just last year. This is due to ongoing conflicts in places like Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Myanmar. While these places might seem far away, this global displacement crisis has a ripple effect on international relations and humanitarian aid efforts that our country is a part of.


On a health note, there's some concerning news about a new strain of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This new strain is spreading more easily, and tragically, it's affecting children the most. The World Health Organization is working to get vaccines to the region, and it's a situation they are monitoring very closely. For us here, it's a reminder of how interconnected our world is when it comes to health and how quickly diseases can spread.


Finally, for any families with an adventurous spirit who might be thinking about traveling, the U.S. State Department has issued some updated travel advisories. They are recommending that Americans reconsider travel to Trinidad and Tobago due to a recent spike in violent crime. It's always a good habit to check the State Department's website for the latest advisories before planning any international trips, just to make sure you're aware of any potential safety concerns.


I know the world can feel like a big and sometimes overwhelming place, but staying informed about these key issues helps us be better global citizens and keep our own families safe.


Things to Keep on Our Family Radar This Week

It's the last week of August, and I know for many of us, it's a busy time with school starting up and trying to soak up the last bits of summer. Here are a few things to keep on your radar this week, from our local community right up to the national level.


Around Our Northern Virginia Community

It's that time of year! The Fairfax County Public Schools are welcoming students back for the new school year. This is always a week of excitement, a little bit of chaos, and maybe a few bittersweet moments for us parents as our kids head out the door.


Remember to be extra careful in our neighborhoods and around school zones. Watch out for kids at bus stops, be mindful of the school speed limits, and expect our roads to be a bit more congested in the mornings and afternoons. Let's all pitch in to make sure our students have a safe start to their year!


What's Happening in D.C.

As we've discussed, Washington, D.C. is preparing for a busy period.

  • Increased Military Presence: The "D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force" continues its operations, which includes over 2,000 National Guard members. As of this past weekend, some of these troops are now armed, so you will continue to see a significant military and law enforcement presence in the city.

  • Congress Returns Next Week: Both the House and the Senate are scheduled to return to session next Tuesday, September 2nd. There are already several protests and rallies planned around their return, so expect the city to be very active, especially as we get closer to the weekend and into next week.


A National Story to Keep in Mind

A big topic in the national news that might start hitting our wallets is the impact of tariffs on consumer goods. If you're doing any last-minute back-to-school shopping or just your regular household buying, you might notice that prices for items like backpacks, binders, and even some groceries have been creeping up. It’s a good reminder to keep an eye on the family budget as these larger economic issues can trickle down to us.


Here at The Hive Social Garden, we're all about helping families navigate this ever-evolving world. Part of that is staying informed about what's happening in our own backyard and beyond. I hope this little roundup helps you and your family have a safe and wonderful week!


Stay tuned for more updates, and as always, I'm here if you have any questions!


Jess C's Mom's Two Cents

My two cents for this week is to focus on the small circle of community you can directly influence.


There's so much going on right now—the news from D.C. can feel heavy, the start of the school year is exciting but also hectic, and the world stage has its own worries. It's easy to feel a little overwhelmed.


So this week, I encourage us all to bring it back home, right to our own neighborhoods and schools. The Hive Social Garden's mission is to "help families navigate an ever-evolving world" and to "build sustainable, inclusive communities". That doesn't always have to be a grand gesture; it often starts with the small, everyday things.

  • As we're all navigating the back-to-school rush, maybe check in with a neighbor to see if they need help with carpooling.

  • If you see a new student at the bus stop, offer them and their parents a warm, welcoming smile.

  • Let's practice our commitment to being a "safe, inclusive, and respectful environment" by being extra patient in the school drop-off line.

  • We can "foster self-worth and community pride" by simply thanking a teacher for all the hard work they're putting in to get the year started right.


By focusing on these little acts of kindness and support, we're putting The Hive's vision of community care into practice. We're reminding each other that even when the world feels complicated, we have the power to make our own corner of it a little kinder and more connected.


That’s how we build a stronger community, one small, supportive action at a time. Have a wonderful week!


Upcoming Events for The Hive Social Garden:
  • The Mysterious Bea-nedict Society - First Monday of Each Month at 1400 EST in the Hive - Join us on September 1st for mentorship and coaching

    • Queen Beas (25+)

    • Queens-in-Training (age 18-24)

  • Sowing Circles - Second Thursday of Each Month at 8 pm EST in the Hive - Join us on September 11th for Show and Tell what you are working on in your garden. Whether crafting or planting, we love to share our creations!

  • The Honey Bea Coven - Third Wednesday of Each Month at 1700 EST (Link will be emailed) - Join us on September 17th

    • Sparks (age 14-17)

    • Tinker Fairies (age 5-13)

  • Femme in STEM - Fourth Thursday of Each Month at 1400 EST in the Hive - Join us on September 23rd!

  • Byte-Sized Adventures - Planned adventures in time and space, exploring quantum intelligence, social engineering, and sustainable globalization... To come play with us, you have to find us first

    • Pokemon Go August Community Day August 30th

  • Exploring Space: Back to School Bash & Runway Show - This summer the Space and Military Intelligence Learning Experience (S/MILE) has explored the idea of taking up space as a peaceful act of resistance. Keeping this in mind we have decided to join forces with Fuel the FLARE (For Liberation and Resistance Everywhere) and their 24/7 occupation located in Columbus Circle in Washington DC dedicated to making positive change in the world. Join us as we take up space and show off our FLARE at the Back to School Bash and Runway Show. We will have a free market and clothing swap, upcycle workshops, the Repair Cafe, and so much more!! Everything is donation or trade and every dollar will raise money to "Fuel the FLARE."


Additional Services Available to Members of the Hive Social Garden (Let me know if you'd like to get started with these):

  • Family Album - Organize your pictures and share securely with family!! Also order photo gifts.

  • PrivacyBee - Cleaning up your digital footprint and protecting you against spam, doxing, fraud, scams, extortion, identity theft, and cyber bullies!!

  • Monarch Money - Budgeting and Savings!! Protecting your bottom line from subscriptions that you no longer use, are of no use to you, and are difficult to cancel because you have to make 47 calls to cancel.

  • Communitique - On Communitique, you can find new or well-maintained clothes in your fit and style for free, and easily pick them up in your area.


Have a fantastic week, everyone!

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