Do you remember your first museum visit? Or a time you felt inspired walking around a museum? What if you had the chance to help give someone else their best museum memory?
Well now you do!
The National Gallery of Art is recruiting for two volunteer opportunities this fall:
- Visitor experience volunteers, who are the friendly faces behind our information desks.
- School docents, who lead school tours for students in grades PreK-12.
All backgrounds and life experiences welcome; multilingual speakers are encouraged to apply.
Join one of several information sessions held throughout the fall to meet the team, learn more about these opportunities, and apply!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
The highly anticipated new luxury condominiums at Monarch Tysons have delivered, with three spectacular new models to tour.
Residents are already enjoying these world-class residences and with exceptional privacy, serene outdoor spaces, lavish features and finishes, white-glove services, and the most luxurious amenities in Northern Virginia. You’re invited to attend an Open House event this Saturday, September 23 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Monarch, located at 7887 Jones Branch Drive, McLean VA, 22102.
Now is the time to buy at Monarch, with fewer than 12 residences remaining — all with great views!
Each residence offers abundant natural light, expansive views, chef’s kitchen, and spacious private outdoor living areas, with some featuring direct-entry elevators. From the richly lacquered cabinetry to the floor-to-ceiling windows, Monarch makes a statement at every turn.
This attention to detail extends throughout, from the spectacular grand lobby, state-of-the-art fitness center, inspiring party room, sparkling blue waters of our resort-style pool, and beautiful outdoor terrace.
Let our 24-hour concierge assist with everything from selecting a fine dining restaurant to coordinating a private party. No other condominium community in Tysons offers this level of superior service. World-class shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences are only a block away, and with the Silver Line Metro so close, residents can easily connect with everything Washington, D.C. and beyond.
Sophisticated condominiums priced from $1.57M. Ask about our rate buydown program — see Sales Manager for details.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
This biweekly column is sponsored by The Mather in Tysons, Virginia, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better.
Do you generally have an optimistic view of the future? If so, you may be reaping some hidden benefits. And if not, you still have reason to… well, hope.
“Hope is a powerful state of mind. For example, it’s been linked to better social well-being outcomes, such as life satisfaction, sense of purpose, and quality of life,” says Cate O’Brien, PhD, AVP of Mather Institute. The Institute is the research area of Mather, the organization that’s bringing The Mather, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better, to Tysons in early 2024. The Institute is an award-winning resource for research and information about wellness, aging, trends in senior living, and successful aging service innovations.
“Our researchers partnered with Washington University in St. Louis on a study of hope and healthy behaviors,” says Dr. O’Brien. “We found that people with a hopeful disposition are more likely to practice healthy lifestyle behaviors and feel positive about the future.” Therefore, by promoting a hopeful outlook, you can actually impact multiple areas of your health.
The good news is that even if you’re not a natural optimist, it’s possible to improve that mindset. Mather Institute researchers combed through previous studies on the subject, and came up with 10 tips that have been proven to help people foster a sense of hope and stay motivated.
- Set goals for yourself. Goals could be short-term (e.g., aiming to walk for 20 minutes every day) or long-term (e.g., learning a foreign language).
- Start slow. Make sure that the goals you set are attainable (e.g., eating a healthy diet or getting enough sleep).
- Break up goals into smaller goals to make them more manageable. For example, if your goal is to walk for 45 minutes every day, start with a 30-minute walk, three times a week and build your endurance.
- Keep realistic expectations about your goals and be creative. If bad weather interferes with your weekly lunch with a friend, enjoy a “virtual” lunch together over a video call.
- Develop a purpose in life. You can volunteer at your local food pantry, participate in a fundraiser, tutor school-aged children, or collect or distribute items of clothing.
- Nurture your hobbies. Pursue your passion, be it gardening, baking, writing, traveling, or scrapbooking.
- Challenge yourself. Complete a crossword or Sudoku puzzle.
- Try new things. Learn new skills such as playing a musical instrument or try out a new restaurant every month.
- Engage in social activities. Try to socialize regularly with friends and family. You can also join a book club or gardening club, video chat with grandchildren, or find a walking partner.
- Practice reflection. Meditating every day or maintaining a daily gratitude journal are some great ways to reduce stress, increase self-awareness, appreciate life, and think positively about the future.
The Mather, projected to open in Tysons, VA, in early 2024 for those 62 and better, is a forward-thinking Life Plan Community that defies expectations of what senior living is supposed to be.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney Associates. Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479.
As a mom of three little ones (twins included), I understand the challenges of finding the perfect family-friendly restaurants in Fairfax County.
Dining out with kids can sometimes feel like a daunting task, but fear not! I’ve put together a list of our top five favorite spots that we visit frequently, where we consistently enjoy wonderful experiences. From Tex-Mex to fresh seafood and even upscale dining, these restaurants have something for every family.
- Urbano is a gem in Mosaic District, offering a delightful blend of Mexican and Latin flavors. This family-friendly restaurant provides an upbeat atmosphere that parents and kids alike can appreciate. Their menu features a variety of dishes, including mouthwatering tacos, flavorful burritos, kid’s fresca drinks (that are a huge hit in our family), and fresh guacamole. Urbano is an excellent choice for a family night out.
- Chuy’s is a must visit for those craving Tex-Mex cuisine in a lively and colorful setting. Located in Fairfax County, this restaurant goes the extra mile to make families feel welcome. Kids receive coloring sheets and crayons to keep them entertained while you browse the extensive menu. From scrumptious tacos to cheesy enchiladas, Chuy’s has something for everyone. Don’t forget to try their famous creamy jalapeño dip — it’s a hit with the whole family!
- Fish Taco offers a delightful fusion of fresh seafood and Mexican flavors right here in Fairfax County. This family-friendly spot in Tysons boasts a relaxed and casual ambiance, making it perfect for parents with kids in tow. Their menu includes mouthwatering fish tacos, shrimp burritos, and delectable house-made guacamole. The little ones are not forgotten, as they offer a kid’s menu with smaller portions for the younger members of the family.
- Coastal Flats (and all of the Great American Restaurants): The Great American Restaurants group is renowned for providing exceptional dining experiences for families in Fairfax County. Coastal Flats, a part of this esteemed group, stands out for its warm and welcoming atmosphere and delectable American cuisine. Known for their fresh seafood dishes, tender steaks, and signature flatbreads, this restaurant offers a diverse menu to cater to every palate. With an extensive kid’s menu featuring classics like mac ‘n’ cheese and chicken tenders, Coastal Flats is the ideal destination for family gatherings or a night out with the little ones.
- For a slightly more upscale yet family-friendly dining experience, Seasons 52 in Fairfax County is an excellent choice. This restaurant offers a seasonal menu with fresh ingredients and healthier options. What sets Seasons 52 apart is their commitment to providing balanced meals for children. The kid’s menu features items like grilled chicken, mini-indulgence desserts, and fresh fruit — all served in kid-sized portions. The elegant and comfortable setting makes it a great option for special family occasions or a night out with the whole family.
Enjoy making family memories and eating so much yumminess!
Explore Fairfax with Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney.
Sharmane Medaris | Live Fairfax | www.soldbysharmane.com | [email protected] | @soldbysharmane | 813-504-4479 | 374 Maple Avenue Suite 202, Vienna, VA 22180
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
This month, we’re doing things a little differently because we’ve got reason to celebrate: Synergy Design & Construction is turning 15! We’d like to take this opportunity to say THANK YOU to all of our past and current clients and to the Greater Reston community for their ongoing support and trust in our business.
One of the reasons we’ve kept our office in Reston (right near Reston Town Center on Bowman Green Drive) is the sense of community this area provides. It’s an important part of who we are to be part of that community. We are your neighbors. We get it. We’re also big believers in giving back. That’s why you’ll often see us around and about at local events, sponsoring local youth arts and sports programs or lending a helping hand to local non-profits.
We also know it takes a lot to invite strangers into your home and that’s why we couldn’t do what we do without an amazing team of inhouse professionals. From project managers to interior designers to carpenters, we partner with our clients so they have as stress-free a home remodeling experience as possible. You can find out more about our team of home remodeling professionals here. We want homeowners to feel empowered and knowledgeable when it comes time to remodel their home, so we’ve also got a freebie for you. Read our tips for a stress-free home remodel in our FREE download here.
As a local kitchen and bathroom remodeler, we’ve seen it all in Northern Virginian homes, from the quirks of the original mid-century homes in Reston to newer colonial style homes that are ready for an upgrade from contractor-grade finishes. There is no cookie-cutter approach to our work. Every project we work on is tailored to our client’s specific needs, design aesthetic and lifestyle. Our commitment is to creating dream spaces that are perfect for you and your family. No fads, no one-size-fits all approach, just beautiful on-time, on-budget home remodels. Whatever your home remodeling challenge, we’ve got your back.
Ready to start your renovation journey with one of the best local home remodelers? Find out more about us here or get in touch here. Just window shopping? No problem! Check out some of our projects here.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
This is a sponsored column by attorneys John Berry and Kimberly Berry of Berry & Berry, PLLC, an employment and labor law firm located in Northern Virginia that specializes in federal employee, security clearance, retirement and private sector employee matters.
By John V. Berry, Esq.
Our security clearance lawyers represent government contractors and federal employees before the National Security Agency (NSA) in security clearance (and employment cases). The NSA is an intelligence agency with its own unique security clearance process under Security Executive Agent Directive 4 (SEAD 4). This article discusses the appeals process for government contractors at the NSA for security clearance and Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) access denials or revocations.
The Security Clearance Process at the NSA
The security clearance appeals process at the NSA is similar to those used by other federal (and intelligence) agencies, with its own unique features. The following are the usual steps at the NSA in the security clearance or SCI review process for government contractors.
1. Revocation or Denial of Security Clearance/SCI Letter Issued by NSA
When a government contractor has a security clearance or SCI access denial or revocation with the NSA, they will receive a letter that provides the background and security clearance concerns in a case. The letter is referred to as a Clearance Decision Statement and will then state that the contractor is given 45 days from receipt of the letter to respond to the alleged security concerns. The investigative file, upon which the denial is based, will often be attached to the NSA letter to facilitate a response by the contractor. With other intelligence agencies, an individual must usually first request the investigative file. The investigative file will usually include documents, reports, interviews, or other items relevant to the NSA’s security concerns at issue. Our security clearance lawyers typically represent contractors starting with this first step.
2. Response to the NSA Clearance Decision Statement
If the contractor elects to challenge the Clearance Decision Statement they will respond to the NSA’s security concerns in writing. A thorough response must be prepared to address all of the security issues. It is critical to also provide exhibits, such as relevant evidence, declarations, character letters, declarations, affidavits, and other documentation related to the NSA’s security concerns or the character of the individual.
3. Decision by NSA Office of Personnel Security is Issued
Once the response to the Clearance Decision Statement is received by the NSA, the NSA Office of Personnel Security will review and issue a decision as to whether or not the security concerns against the government contractor have been dismissed or mitigated. If so, the matter is then resolved and the clearance or SCI is restored. If not, the individual will be provided a short decision briefly citing the reasons why the appeal was denied and informing the contractor of their right to a final appeal before the NSA Access Appeals Panel (AAP). There is then a very short period of time (usually 15 days) in which to either request a hearing with the AAP or otherwise simply submit a secondary written appeal.
4. Meeting with the NSA Access Appeals Panel
If the contractor has elected to provide an in-person response (which is recommended), the next step is a meeting with the AAP. Any additional supporting documents must usually be submitted no later than 14 days prior to the AAP hearing. The AAP hearing is an in-person presentation. During this hearing before the AAP, counsel and the contractor will present their case asking for a reversal of the negative security clearance or SCI determination. The panel normally has 6-7 people present (panel members and an NSA attorney/advisor) and typically asks several questions during the presentation so it is important to be prepared. We recommend legal counsel during this process to ensure adequate preparation for the AAP hearing.
5. The NSA AAP Decision
Following the AAP hearing, they will issue a decision, usually within 1-3 weeks, either granting the clearance or access or issuing a final denial. In a few cases, the NSA AAP may seek additional information or an additional response from the contractor. If the AAP issues a denial, the contractor may re-apply for a security clearance or access a year later. The relatively quick clearance review process at the NSA is unique among intelligence agencies where the security clearance process can often take much longer.
Conclusion
When a government contractor is facing security clearance issues at the NSA it is important to obtain legal advice and representation from an experienced security clearance lawyer. Our law firm advises government contractors and federal employees in the security clearance process. We can be contacted at www.berrylegal.com or by telephone at (703) 668-0070.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Children’s National Hospital will host the annual Race for Every Child on Saturday, October 21 at Freedom Plaza in Washington, D.C., and virtually.
Funds raised from the 5K and Kids Dash benefit Children’s National patients and families. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Children’s National relies on donations to make world-class care and research possible. The event has raised more than $11.4 million since 2013.
Sam, who had heart surgery as a baby at the hospital, now plans to run the 5K for the 11th year. His parents, Taryn and Eric, are co-chairs of the Race. “We wanted to do everything we could to help this amazing hospital who helped us,” Taryn says.
Register for free to support kids in the community like Sam.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
This biweekly column is sponsored by The Mather in Tysons, Virginia, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better.
Research has shown that older adults who engage with the arts in a group setting — anything from dancing to a poetry group to singing in a choir — enjoy tangible benefits in multiple areas of health. This has to do with feelings of mastery, and with social connection.
“This research, combined with Dr. Gene Cohen’s description of life after 50 as a time of potential and inner growth known as the Creative Age, forms a foundation for using creativity to support personal wellness,” says Caroline Edasis, AVP of resident engagement for Mather. Mather is the organization that’s bringing The Mather, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better, to Tysons in early 2024.
Susan Fine (pictured above) agrees. An artist with a studio and gallery in Washington, D.C., she plans to move to The Mather. She explains that, after a successful career in health care, “I went to Glassell School of Art at the Museum of Fine Art Houston when I was 60. And I so enjoyed the experience! You can be more creative the older you get — child-rearing responsibilities and traditional work may recede, and you open up to other things. There are so many directions you can go in art; I focus on painting and mixed media.”
Midge Scelzo, who is also planning to move to The Mather, has a similar story: “I worked in banking for 25 years, then as CFO for tech startups. In 2009, we moved to Florida and I started a new CFO job… but I realized I wanted to get back to art. I wanted to challenge myself.” She joined a group of artists and started painting. “I’m loving it. It uses a different part of my brain. I’m still that finance person — detail-oriented and organized — but art relaxes me, and I can tune out the world.”
Creativity as Wellness
Mather encourages residents in their existing communities — not just those who are established artists — to try creating new art forms in Open Art Studios. These studios, which position arts engagement as a vehicle for wellness, not just recreation, inviting both lifelong and new artists to explore their own Creative Age in a welcoming group setting.
“While working in diverse media including ceramics and mixed media/painting, participants often realize alongside their peers that they have an untapped expressive ability, a new love for a specific media, or a personal project to pursue,” says Caroline. “One of our master’s-level facilitators, trained in art and psychology, is present to support each individual’s creative journey, and that person helps transform the group into an uplifting community in which residents learn more about each other and themselves.”
Inquiry-Based Art Viewing
Mather also has a signature approach to art appreciation — one that mirrors how contemporary museum practices are evolving. Rather than teaching or encouraging art appreciation with lectures from an expert such as a docent, they focus on inclusive, inquiry-based art-viewing techniques.
“Did you know that the average person spends 17 seconds looking at a work of art in a museum?” asks Caroline. “In our visual literacy programs, we often spend a full hour describing an image, sharing stories conjured by the work of art, or even creating group poems in response to the work. These techniques focus on the interests, experiences, and curiosity of viewers to deliver intellectually stimulating content while challenging us to bring culture down from the pedestal and into our lives.”
“This method is a great way to improve people’s cognition, and their interest and engagement with life,” says Eileen Mandell, who is planning a move to The Mather next year. Eileen, who is currently the community relations director at 1st Stage theater in Tysons, has been immersed in the world of theater as well as studied and practiced various art media. “I’m looking forward the creative arts programming that The Mather will offer,” she says. “I’m a creative person in general, and I want to act as an art maven there.”
The Mather has already formed relationships with local arts organizations, and plans to offer inquiry-based art experiences for residents on-site in museums, theaters, galleries, and more.
Mather recognizes that creativity is about much more than visual art. They encourage everyone to recognize aging as a time of great creative potential, whether through music, poetry, storytelling, dance and movement, or even gardening — the sky is truly the limit.
The Mather, projected to open in Tysons, VA, in early 2024 for those 62 and better, is a forward-thinking Life Plan Community that defies expectations of what senior living is supposed to be.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Ken and Peg Miller knew that The View Alexandria by Goodwin LivingTM was a smart choice. They didn’t know it would be a lifesaver, too.
The couple was finding it harder to handle their family home in Ashburn. “It was getting to be too much for us,” said Peg. “Ken had hip surgery, and before he’d completely recovered from that, we both got COVID. It was one thing after another.”
Seeking to be closer to their adult children, the Millers explored several options in and around Alexandria. “The View Alexandria had the best options,” said their son, Bob.
“Within days, we knew this had been a good decision,” said Ken. “It was like we were meant to be here,” Peg agreed.
The Millers soon realized just how serendipitous their move had been. Peg began feeling unwell, and one day could not take more than a few steps without being out of breath.
Ken took Peg for a meal in the dining room where Kathy Howell, the community’s Chaplain and Life Enrichment Director, spotted Peg. “She took one look at me and said, ‘What’s wrong with you?’” Peg said.
Kathy, a former nurse, took Peg’s pulse, asked her a few questions and encouraged her to call an ambulance.
“They took me right into the emergency room,” said Peg. “She had a blood clot in the lungs,” Ken confirmed.
“I credit Kathy with saving my life,” Peg said.
To learn more about senior living at The View Alexandria, call 703.454.8946 or visit TheViewAlexandria.org.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney Associates. Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479.
Labor Day weekend in Fairfax County is filled with events and activities for all ages! Here are a few to definitely consider adding to your plans.
- Labor Day Car Show (City of Fairfax): This annual car show brings together automotive enthusiasts to showcase a diverse array of classic cars, hot rods, and vintage vehicles. Visitors can enjoy live music, food vendors, and a chance to explore Downtown Fairfax.
- Superheroes Host Kids & Family Labor Day Festival (Tysons): Join Captain America, Spiderman, and Wonder Woman in a fun-filled day for all ages. There will be moonbounces, photobooths, outdoor games and activities, and more! Spend the day with the coolest superheroes and have an unforgettable family day!
- Outdoor Escapes: Enjoy the natural beauty of Fairfax County by hiking in Great Falls Park, Burke Lake Park, or exploring the trails at Mason Neck State Park. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, consider kayaking or canoeing along the Potomac River (check out previous Lakeside video).
- Visit Historic Sites: Fairfax County is rich in history. Take the opportunity to explore sites like George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Gunston Hall, and the Civil War Interpretive Center at Historic Blenheim. Guided tours and demonstrations offer a glimpse into the past.
- City of Fairfax Farmers Market: Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the City of Fairfax Farmers Market over the weekend. Explore local produce, baked goods, artisan crafts, and more while supporting local vendors and enjoying the community atmosphere.
- Wineries & Breweries: Spend a leisurely day at the local wineries and breweries. Enjoy wine tastings at places like Paradise Springs Winery and Winery at Bull Run or sample craft beers at Fair Winds Brewing Company.
Get ready to kick back and enjoy the last splash of summer this Labor Day! Pick activities that make you smile and suit your style. Have a blast and make this Labor Day uniquely yours!
Explore Fairfax with Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney.
Sharmane Medaris | Live Fairfax | www.soldbysharmane.com | [email protected] | @soldbysharmane | 813-504-4479 | 374 Maple Avenue Suite 202, Vienna, VA 22180
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
The Silent Dance Party is back!
Join us for the 2nd Annual Silent Dance Party on Reston Metro Plaza taking place Friday, September 8 from 7-8:30 p.m. Bring your friends and family, and dance like nobody’s watching.
To dance, bring your driver’s license in exchange for a headset. Three live DJ’s will spin different music genres to choose from at the click of a button.
There will be fun for the whole family including glitter tattoos, a bubble-ologist, balloon animals, and so much more!
Come early and grab dinner and drinks at one of the incredible restaurants on the Plaza: Matchbox, Founding Farmers, Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse, Sweet Leaf and Big Buns.
Get ready to party because quiet is the new loud!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
This biweekly column is sponsored by The Mather in Tysons, Virginia, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better.
Golfing is more than a pleasant pastime: research has shown that regular golf games can offer proven benefits that substantially improve your physical and mental health.
One reason to keep playing: a regular golf schedule can add years to your life — literally. A Swedish study of data on 300,000 golfers found that those who played regularly had a five-year increase in life expectancy over non-golfers of the same age, gender, and socioeconomic status.
Sally Wallace of Fairfax County is a beginning golfer who took up the sport partly for the fact that she will be able to play it later in life. “Someone suggested golf as a social sport, and one that I can do for the rest of my life — it can keep me active,” she says. Even as she prepares to move to The Mather, a Life Plan Community for those 62 and better that’s opening in Tysons in early 2024, she’s embracing her new hobby, and plans to sign up for private lessons with a golf pro. “My goal is to play on a team next June,” she says.
Sally currently lives in suburban area near the main campus of George Mason University, and next spring, will move about 10 miles to The Mather, which is located in a walkable urban neighborhood by Tysons Galleria. “I’m looking forward to the change — I almost can’t wait!” she says. Sally is looking forward to meeting other golfers there, so she can continue to enjoy her new hobby.
Here are some tips on making the most of your time on the green:
- If possible, skip the golf cart. Better yet, skip the caddy. If you play an 18-hole course three to five times a week and walk rather than ride, researchers estimate you’ll get the optimal amount of endurance exercise for good heart health.
- Get your brain in the game. Golf can also improve your brain health. Not only does the physical exercise stimulate nerve cell connections — which can delay mental deterioration and even dementia — the mental aspects of the game can keep cognition sharp. Tallying scores, planning strategy, and focusing on hand-eye coordination all provide healthy workouts for your brain.
- Make it a social game. Getting together with friends and acquaintances has been proven to improve mental health and brain health. So, make the most of socializing during (or before and after) a golf game — catch up on news, share a joke, or make plans for future games.
“I’m a runner, a walker, a swimmer, and a weight-lifter — but those are all solitary pursuits,” says Sally. “I’m looking for that social component. And everyone at the driving range seems very encouraging and welcoming. Golfers seem like a good group to be part of.”
- Let go of stress. Participating in an activity you enjoy, which requires concentration, can release mood-boosting endorphins in the brain. This immediately makes you feel happier and more relaxed. And during the periods of time you spend eliminating or forgetting stress, you are actually reversing its negative effects on your body and brain.
- Enjoy the outdoors. Simply being outside has a positive effect on your mood. Research has shown that regular exposure to “green areas” can cause our bodies to relax and let go of stress, as well as ease anxiety. One study showed that those who exercise outdoors rather than inside experienced greater mood elevation and actually exercised for longer periods of time.
The Mather in Tysons, VA, for those 62 and better, is a forward-thinking Life Plan Community that defies expectations of what senior living is supposed to be. It opens in early 2024.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Coming up in just a couple of weeks, DC Bike Ride invites you to the region’s favorite social bike ride for riders of all ages and abilities and offers $20 off your Standard Registration now with promo code BIKEDC.
Take over the District and enjoy 20 miles of live music, photo zones, and other fun surprises along the way.
No Bike? No Problem!
DC Bike Ride offers bike rentals during sign-up as well as FREE registration for kids and additional discounts for groups.
See you at the Start Line on Saturday, September 9!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney Associates. Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479.
Fairfax County has the ultimate recipe for fun — lakeside adventures!
Imagine a world where nature’s beauty meets endless playtime. Here’s your sneak peek into the coolest lakeside spots that promise smiles, splashes, and unforgettable moments for everyone.
- Burke Lake Park (Burke): Got curious minds and a love for outdoor action? Burke Lake Park is your jackpot! Think of a shimmering lake perfect for paddleboat races and fishing fun. Hike the trails, try mini-golf, and don’t miss the carousel twirls. It’s a natural playground that spells family bonding in capital letters.
- Lake Anne (Reston): Seeking cozy vibes? Lake Anne is your chill spot. Imagine walks by the water, kayaking quests, and lazy lakeside lounging. It’s a picture-perfect place to unwind and soak in the good times with your favorites.
- Occoquan Reservoir (Occuquan): Ready for a hidden gem? Occoquan Reservoir is your zen zone. Kayak or paddleboard through calm waters, play bird detective, and have a picnic like a pro. Trails and nature high-fives are waiting for your gang. Get set for memories that sparkle like the water.
- Lake Accotink (Springfield): Nestled in the heart of nature, Lake Accotink offers an oasis of outdoor fun. Whether it’s fishing, boating, or simply unwinding by the water’s edge, this serene haven has something for everyone. Soak in the beauty, create memories, and let the tranquil waters soothe your soul. Discover the magic of Lake Accotink.
- BONUS — Lake Anna (Spotsylvania): Calling all water lovers, big and small! Lake Anna is your water wonderland. Imagine swimming, splashing, and jet ski zooming. Fishing champs, get ready for a catch-a-palooza. Pack your sunscreen and swimsuits — this lake’s adventures are calling your name.
Ready for action, adventure, and bonding galore? Pack your excitement, snacks, and a dash of curiosity, and head to Fairfax County’s lakes. Nature’s calling, and the best moments are waiting. See you by the water!
Explore Fairfax with Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney.
Sharmane Medaris | Live Fairfax | www.soldbysharmane.com | [email protected] | @soldbysharmane | 813-504-4479 | 374 Maple Avenue Suite 202, Vienna, VA 22180
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Fall into fun with DC Fray and register for an upcoming league offered at various locations, days and times before spots fill up 
.
We’re offering kickball, pickleball, basketball, softball, tennis, flag football, bocce and much more across Northern Virginia as well as leagues in D.C.
Take a swing at something new or slide into an old favorite pastime. Join as an individual, group of friends, or as a full team.
Secure your spot as leagues fill up fast!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
