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 lawyers defend government contractors (private employees that work for government contractors) in debarment cases before federal agencies like the Department of Defense and others.
What is a Debarment?
Debarments are government actions taken against government contractors related to conduct. It is the government’s duty to protect itself from alleged fraud, waste, and abuse by ensuring that it avoids doing business with non-responsible contractors. Debarments can last a period of years. Suspensions result in temporary contractor ineligibility to work on government contracts. Suspensions and debarments are not for the purpose of punishing a government contractor but to protect the public.
Effect of Debarments and Suspensions
Debarments and suspensions have a major impact on individual government contractors. These can include removal from a government contract (and potential termination from employment) and potential security clearance issues. Government contractors that are debarred or suspended are not eligible to work on government contracts, unless a compelling reason exists, which can be a very high bar to meet. The government takes a straightforward approach to debarment cases and provides a fair appeals process.
Typical Reasons for Debarment (of Suspension of Eligibility)
The most common reasons for debarment or suspension include:
- Criminal Convictions or Pending Charges
- Civil Judgments and/or Liens
- Evidence of Crimes
- Specific Misconduct (e.g. time and attendance mischarging)
Debarment/Suspension Process
At the start of the disbarment process, the government will issue a show cause letter requiring a government contractor to demonstrate why they should not be suspended or debarred. These proceedings are completed relatively quickly, and individual government contractors must respond in order to avoid a negative outcome.
The government will generally provide a show cause letter to the individual and an initial chance to respond to the allegations, along with a memorandum in support of the proposed debarment. If the case proceeds, the individual contractor will have to respond to a notice of proposed debarment from the government.
Responding to Debarments
In responding to a notice of proposed debarment, it is important to fully address all allegations of misconduct or impropriety, and hire a debarment lawyer to assist them. We often find it helpful to submit letters of support on behalf of the individual, awards, commendations and other materials which demonstrate the character and integrity of the individual.
Additionally, cooperation in related investigations, completion of ethics training in a relevant area, acceptance of responsibility and other mitigating arguments should be made to the Debarring Official. These may help to convince the government that debarment is not needed or that mitigation to some other penalty is appropriate.
Following the response period, a decision will be rendered by the Debarring Official. They can uphold, mitigate, or terminate the debarment. Further, if a negative finding is upheld, there is sometimes the ability to seek reconsideration of a negative debarment finding. The process can involve contacting the Debarring Official with new or other evidence and seeking to reduce the debarment.
It is important to have legal representation in this process. If a negative finding is reached, leaving the person debarred from government contracts, that finding will be placed in the debarment database, known as the System for Award Management (SAM).
Contact Us
If you are in need of legal representation in a proposed debarment or debarment appeal please contact our office at 703-668-0070 or through our contact page to schedule a consultation.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Address: 43041 Greeley Square
Neighborhood: Brambleton at Birchwood
Type: 3 BR, 3 BA courtyard — single level — 2,500 sq. ft.
Listed: $859,990
Noteworthy: Single Level Living for 55+ Active Adults
When entering the Aurora Home, you’ll find a timeless transitional design — 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, loft space. Private study. Full brick front. Patio. Upgraded cabinets in kitchen and full baths. Stainless appliances with gas cooktop, wall oven, and stainless-steel chimney hood. Quartz countertops in the kitchen, primary, and a hall bath. 7” plank hardwood flooring on the main level. Utility sink in laundry. Upgrade tile in primary suite and hall bath.
Listed by:
Eric Hansen
[email protected]
(703) 896-0717
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
When you start your workday, do you want to walk through the doors and enter an environment where talents are nurtured, passions are pursued, and possibilities abound? In Mather’s newest venture in Tysons, Virginia, all of this is a part of an award-winning culture within their luxury community called The Mather.
The highest level of hospitality imbues The Mather’s elegant amenity spaces, thoughtfully curated food and beverage offerings, and innovative model of next-level service.
A Life Plan Community for those 62 and better, The Mather stands ready to begin welcoming residents in early 2024, and is well underway with recruiting top talent who share a passion for creating an atmosphere that transcends the ordinary. That stems from the unique values of its parent organization — inclusive, resilient, bold, and impactful — and its vision to change the way society views aging. Mather, an 80+ year-old not-for-profit organization, has a history of retaining dedicated team members for years, by helping them learn new skills, develop their careers, and eliminate barriers to personal happiness and fulfillment.
“My own job search was focused on a position where I could be exposed to different challenges as part of a forward-thinking and passionate group of professionals,” says Okyay Nalcaoglu, who joined The Mather in October 2023 as director of accounting. “I was seeking an employer with a futuristic vision that allows me to explore new initiatives and solutions. By the end of my first interview, it was clear to me that The Mather offers that autonomy and flexibility, within a strong and supportive framework.”
Raj Radke, vice president and general manager of The Mather, explains, “Our mission of creating Ways to Age Well extends to all team members. We support their personal well-being with a positive and supportive culture, valuable on-the-job perks, opportunities to learn and advance, and, of course, a competitive benefits package.” Highlights of that benefits package include:
- a generous paid time off program
- excellent medical and dental benefits
- tuition reimbursement
- and even a yearly reimbursement for self-care items and experiences
Benefits commence on the first of the month following 30 days of employment. On-site perks include complimentary use of the community’s fitness center and pool, free parking, and a free meal.
Add to those benefits the pleasure of working in a beautiful setting — The Mather has been recognized with several design awards even before opening its doors, including the 2023 Grand Aurora Award for Best On the Boards Community and Award of Merit top honors in the 2023 Gold Nugget Awards competition for Best Senior Housing Community — On the Boards, which honors architectural design and planning excellence.
Mather, with three other senior living communities in Illinois and Arizona, has a growing list of workplace and wellness awards, including being certified as a Great Place to Work, and receiving a Nation’s Best and Brightest in Wellness Award from the National Association for Business Resources for five years in a row, for promoting employee well-being, worksite health, and wellness.
Located on Westpark Drive near Tysons Galleria, The Mather offers luxury of a different kind. Apartment homes ranging in size up to 3,300 square feet are equipped with innovative smart-home technology; amenity-rich community spaces include a fitness center featuring an exercise studio and large indoor pool; multiple restaurants, a bar, outdoor event terraces with catering opportunities; a spa offering full services — including a Himalayan salt wall; and three acres of green space. Services include reception and concierge services, valet parking, shuttle and driver services, resident engagement and programming, housekeeping, and maintenance.
The Mather is hiring now for an array of positions to provide hospitality and exceptional service in these areas; it ultimately will have a total of more than 100 full- and part-time team members — all focused on creating unique opportunities and meaningful moments for residents, colleagues, and guests.
“We’re seeking team members from high-end hotels and resorts who share our dedication to making a difference and creating unique luxury experiences,” says Raj. “We are building a team that will push the envelope in curating elevated and enhanced engagements that embrace a vibrant culture for residents and team members alike.”
If you’re interested in joining the team at The Mather, or know someone who is, browse the open positions at themathertysons.com/jobs.
The Mather is hosting a hiring event on Wednesday, January 10 in its Information & Design Centre at 7901 Jones Branch Drive in McLean, on the Lobby Level. Interested applicants are welcome to drop in any time that day between 3-7 p.m. They are encouraged to bring a resume and be ready to interview.
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.
Christmas is only days away and soon the clock ticks down to bid farewell to 2023.
Here are a few of our NYE top picks definitely guaranteed to make memories and set 2024 for a year of embracing where you are in life whatever that season is from family-friendly festivities to exclusive adult soirées, Live Fairfax has you covered.
Family Friendly
Shipgarten’s Kid’s Noon-Years Eve Party (Shipgarten)
Enjoy a live performance and meet Elsa, Anna, and Spider-man. Ballon drop, moon bounces, party favors, face painting, and a sparkling apple cider toast, it’s a celebration you don’t want to miss.
Children’s Science Center New Year’s Eve Around the World (Fair Oaks Mall)
The Lab with a Ball Drop at “Midnight,” a sparkling cider toast, and engaging activities like engineering Firework Pinwheels, crafting Celebration Slime, and making personalized 2024 Headbands for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve!
New Year’s Eve Bash at Dave and Buster’s (Springfield & Fairfax)
Enjoy a festive celebration on Sunday, December 31 with endless fun, food, and games, including admission with a $20 Power Card for unlimited video game play!
Falls Church NYE Watch Night (multiple locations in City of Falls Church)
Join in for a free, fun, and family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration in the City of Falls Church from 7 p.m. to midnight.
Adults Only
80’s NYE Party with the Legwarmers (State Theater)
Bidding farewell to 2023 with an exciting party! Get ready for the return of the most popular New Year’s celebration featuring Washington D.C.’s premier 80’s tribute band. Get ready to groove into the New Year!
NYE at The Winery at Bull Run (Winery at Bull Run)
Experience an after-hours NYE bash on Sunday, December 31, from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., the Tasting Room turns into a dance floor. Delight in our DJ’s tunes, savor exquisite wines and cider, and relish delectable food and desserts available for purchase from the Paella & Tapas Place.
Ja Rule & Ashanti New Year’s Eve (The St. James)
Experience an unforgettable New Year’s Eve concert journey through Ja Rule and Ashanti’s iconic careers.
Cocktails Around The World (Inca Social Vienna)
Enjoy a global cocktail journey with exotic drinks crafted by their talented mixologists while dancing to the hottest beats! It will be an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration!
However, you decide to welcome the New Year may it be filled with lasting memories and mark the perfect start to 2024. Embrace the changes ahead and create unforgettable moments that will stand the test of time.
Cheers to new beginnings and treasured memories!
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 biweekly column is sponsored by The Mather in Tysons, Virginia, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better.
Finding a creative outlet that suits you, and then devoting time and thought to that outlet, has wonderful effects on your mood, your brain, and your overall well-being. “Creativity doesn’t have to be painting or sculpting; you can be creative in starting or running a business or nonprofit,” says author Sara Fitzgerald. “For me, I spend a lot of time writing, and I find it very satisfying.”
Sara is a multitalented writer who has applied her talents to crafting everything from satirical song lyrics to nuanced biographies. A resident of northern Virginia for nearly 50 years, she is preparing to move to The Mather, a Life Plan Community for those 62 and better, in Tysons in early 2024.
Early in her career, Sara was an editor and new media developer for The Washington Post, then held positions focused on internet policy making and promoting technology in education. While she continued to write during those years (including publishing two romance novels), she says retirement offers the time and concentration she needs to devote herself to it.
“There’s something about the way writing stimulates my mind — there’s a kind of high,” says Sara. Since retirement, she’s been focused on historical fiction and biographies of little-known women. She’s in the process of publishing a biography of Emily Hale, the secret love of poet T.S. Eliot. (You can browse all her published works on her website at sarafitzgerald.com.)
However, Sara’s writing isn’t limited to books: “I enjoy rhyming lyrics — I’ve written them for the Hexagon Club’s annual satirical revue in D.C. for years,” she says.
And, after taking a brief playwriting class at the Creative Cauldron theater in Falls Church, she wrote a script for a very personal cabaret-style show, Comfort Songs, which was performed in July 2023 at the Creative Cauldron. She explains, “During the early days of the pandemic, I was inspired by Yo-Yo Ma, who put out a call for ‘songs of comfort’ and who posted videos of himself playing the cello. I began posting my own videos; I used my mobile phone to record daily videos of myself playing the piano — one song a day for nearly 90 days.” In her show, Sara described the project and the background of the songs she selected, and “some talented friends” performed about 15 of them. “I wanted it to be a healing experience; I think it worked well,” she says.
Sara is looking forward to her next chapter at The Mather. “What’s reassuring to me about my decision to move to The Mather was that nine or ten households of my friends have also decided to move there,” she says. “I then learned about friends of friends moving there — including the two neighbors on either side of my future apartment home!”
While she hopes to enjoy more time to regularly practice piano in her apartment home at The Mather as she admires the views from floor-to-ceiling windows, Sara is simultaneously excited about the community’s amenities, including an indoor pool, and looks forward to meeting new people. “I figure I’ll be able to sit down with any of my neighbors and find interesting people whom I would like to know,” she says.
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
Written by Mina Lucks, Synergy Design & Construction
A recent client with an upscale townhome was ready to make changes to their nearly 20-year-old home. Dark-cherry finishes and a kitchen layout had started to date, and they had big ideas to improve other areas of the home. The basement entertainment area, a couple hall baths and all new flooring throughout were on the wish list.
Here’s an inside look into how we harmoniously transformed these spaces to brighten the townhouse just in time for the holidays!
Transform Tradition into Trend
The first step of the kitchen transformation was the removal of several non-load-bearing columns and half-walls that enclosed the space. This eliminated barriers with adjacent rooms, allowed more light in, and shed the kitchen’s overly traditional aesthetic.
Hello, open concept!
The revamped kitchen features expansive custom cabinetry that exudes a bright and airy feeling, optimizing every inch of the footprint to increase storage and countertop space. Offering seating for at least four, a large island takes center stage while anchoring and defining the room.
Complemented by white oak accents (including a hanging ladder), the kitchen offers warm and natural textures, establishing a seamless connection with the furnishings in the surrounding dining and living rooms.
To complete the kitchen transformation, lighter-colored hardwood flooring graces the entire main level, creating a cohesive look that pulls all the elements together.
Bringing up the Basement
Just one level below the kitchen remodel, we brought the basement into the project. Several updates were made, including revamping an existing small full bath and adding a built-in bar area and faux beams to the tray ceiling.
A previously unused corner became a striking entertaining focal point with bar cabinetry, floating shelves, and a full-sized wine refrigerator. The most eye-catching feature, a full-height natural stone backsplash, brings a touch of luxury and personality to the space.
On the opposite side of the room, we removed the traditional white trim around the existing fireplace and added stone stacked to the ceiling with an eye-popping custom wood mantle creating an additional architectural feature and a perfect spot to stay cozy in the winter months.
A Splash of Bath
Last, but not least, an unrenovated hall bath on the upper floor received a facelift with all new vanity and plumbing fixtures which bring pops of color and personality to the room — making it a perfect teen’s retreat.
Whether it’s a New Year’s resolution or a well-deserved holiday gift to yourself, consider this story your inspiration to make that home project you’ve been dreaming of a reality!
Get in touch with us today to start the conversation!
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.
Embarking on the holiday season demands more than just festive cheer — it calls for a dash of magic in our style survival. Join me as we meet up with sometimes referred to the “Style Therapist” by her clients, Katie with Style by Valentine at the amazing Tyson’s Corner Nordstrom.
As Katie shares insight on navigating the holiday chaos in style. As we dive into the festivities, Nordstrom emerges as our trusted companion, offering a seamless style experience with budget convenience. As women from all walks of life face the thieves of season from time constraints, packed schedules, family stress, and the inevitable lack of sleep, which could result in dark circles, frumpiness, and a general sense of discomfort that hinders us from fully enjoying the season’s moments.
Fear not, as our gift to you is a Style Survival Guide Clip — a toolkit of several practical strategies applicable to all, regardless of budget, size, age, or style preferences.
Tailored insights for moms, families, and general professionals ensure everyone can embrace the holiday spirit and look great doing so. From avoiding winging it to cleverly remixing your wardrobe with a single statement piece, strategically using color, texture, and accessories, to embracing cozy monochromes and metallics for that chic festive vibe — we’ve got you covered.
Katie definitely adds a few final tips on value, quality, and staying true to yourself, this video encourages a thoughtful and authentic approach to holiday style.
Thank you so much for tuning in to our style survival video! I hope these tips bring a touch of magic to your holiday season. As you navigate the festivities, may your days be filled with warmth, joy, and the creation of beautiful memories.
Wishing you an amazing Christmas season where every moment is wrapped in happiness. Here’s to embracing the magic of the holidays and making memories that will last a lifetime.
Merry Christmas!
Collaboration with Style By Valentine
Stylebyvalentine.com
[email protected]
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 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 Melissa L. Watkins, Esq.
Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs) can be a dangerous proposition for federal employees.
Federal employees who realize that a PIP is being considered, should be wary and consult with a federal employment attorney early on to make sure they maximize their chance of surviving a performance related action. In our experience, an employee being put on a PIP is usually heading towards more serious disciplinary action, such as demotion or removal.
Federal employees often will be told that a PIP is only designed to benefit them and make them better performers. Managers often promise employees that they will be given special assistance to ensure they are successful during a PIP period, only for the employees to later find themselves facing a potential demotion or removal some months later having not received any of the promised assistance during the process. In many ways, the deck is stacked against the employee when facing a PIP.
Opportunity to Improve
If an employee is said to be having performance issues, before an agency can take any action to demote or remove the employee, the agency must notify the employee of the concern and give the employee an opportunity to improve. This notification and opportunity to improve is usually accomplished by the agency placing the employee on a PIP. Through the PIP, the agency must inform the employee what performance is not acceptable, what critical performance element(s) are at issue, what standard the employee must meet to be found acceptable, and provide a warning to the employee that if their performance does not reach an acceptable level, the employee could be demoted or removed.
What To Do If Placed on a PIP
There are a few things that an employee can do once receiving a PIP to give themselves the best chance at being successful. Those things include:
- Providing a response to the PIP. While the PIP doesn’t afford a traditional response process, an employee can always put together a response nonetheless. In such a response, the employee should identify any concerns with the PIP and provide examples, if they exist, of how the employee has been performing successfully on the elements at issue.
- Don’t wait to start demonstrating improvement. Even if the employee disagrees with the PIP or the alleged performance concerns, the employee should start working on meeting the performance expectations outlined in the PIP. Waiting too long to address the performance issues can sometimes lead to the employee running out of time in the PIP process.
- Document everything. Once a PIP is issued, one of the employee’s best tools is documentation. For all tasks completed relevant to the PIP, the employee should save documentation showing the task and its completion. The employee should also keep a log of all assistance received and all feedback provided from the supervisor. As mentioned above, if an agency fails to provide feedback or assistance, it can impact the agency’s ability to move forward with disciplinary action.
- Request an Accommodation. If the employee believes that the performance issues are related to a disability, the employee should request an accommodation as soon as possible. The accommodation will not stop the PIP, but ideally, the accommodation will allow the employee to be better able to meet the performance expectations outlined in the PIP.
- Keep an eye on the use of leave. An employee can use leave during a PIP period. An employee on approved leave (annual, sick, or leave without pay) cannot be penalized for work that is not completed while on approved leave. Also, if an employee is on leave for an extended time during a PIP period, the PIP period may need to be extended to give the employee a meaningful opportunity to improve.
What Happens After a PIP
If the employee is still performing unacceptably after the PIP period, the next step is usually some type of discipline. The options include reassignment, demotion, or removal. If the employee is proposed for removal, he or she can be removed in a very short period of time after the decision on the PIP.
Given the potential serious implications of a PIP, employees who believe one may be issued, or have received a PIP, should consult with an attorney to determine how best to proceed. Our law firm advises federal employees in various employment matters. 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
This holiday season, join us at The Residence at Colvin Run for a festive celebration of local talent and holiday cheer at our Holiday Shoppe!
Located at 1131 Walker Road in Great Falls, Virginia, this enchanting event is set to take place tomorrow (Tuesday, December 5) from 1-3 p.m.
Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season as we showcase a curated selection of wares from talented local craftspeople, artisans, and small businesses. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover unique holiday treasures and thoughtful gifts for your loved ones. Whether you’re a resident, family member, or part of the vibrant Great Falls community, everyone is welcome to join in the festivities.
The Residence at Colvin Run, an Assisted Living and Memory Care community, invites you to experience “Boutique Senior Living in the Heart of Great
Falls.”
Don’t miss this chance to add a touch of local magic to your holiday season!
We look forward to celebrating with you at The Residence at Colvin Run’s Holiday Shoppe.
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.
For many, the holiday season includes traditions, expectations, commitments — and rising levels of stress. If you are among those who feel their stress levels rising at this time of year, try an easy solution: mindful meditation.
Myriad studies have shown that a regular meditation practice can reduce stress and physically change the brain so that you have greater capacity to continually manage stress. Learning to avoid stress saves a lot of wear and tear on your body as well as your brain.
Mindful meditation refocuses the attention, calming the mind and lowering blood pressure and heart rate. A morning meditation session of even a few minutes can help you manage stress throughout your day.
As you learn to focus, you’re training your attention and your ability to tune out the information overload and jumbled thoughts we live with constantly — and better attention means a sharper memory. Additionally, studies show that meditation can actually grow, or increase the volume of, areas of the brain responsible for:
- complex cognitive processes including planning, goal setting, decision making, attention, and short-term memory
- positive mood
- improving awareness of body, gut feeling, and empathy
- long-term memory
Types of Meditation
Meditation is simple and takes as little as a few minutes a day. But remember — if you want to enjoy the benefits above, you’ll need to meditate regularly, and ideally that means every day.
Here are a few types of meditation to consider:
Mindfulness sitting meditation is the most common form of meditation. Sit comfortably with your back, neck, and head straight but not stiff. Concentrate on your breathing and the sensations it creates. When your mind wanders or you become distracted, gently return your focus to your breath. Try this for just five minutes at first, gradually increasing the time.
Visualization meditation involves mental visualization of an image, which is usually meaningful or religious. While you meditate (as above), you try to mentally visualize your chosen image in as much detail as possible. As you do so, you may also reflect on the meaning of your image.
Walking meditation is similar to sitting meditation. Slowly and comfortably walk, focusing your attention on each step, the movement of your body, and the feel of each foot on the ground. When your mind wanders, gently bring it back to the movement of walking.
Loving-kindness meditation focuses on practicing compassion. As you practice cultivating feelings of loving kindness, gradually move your focus from feeling this toward yourself, then to loved ones, and then to people who are less close to you.
Look for a local meditation class, or purchase audio recordings of guided meditations. Once you’ve mastered the basics of your chosen type of meditation, it will become a matter of practicing — and enjoying the benefits that come with it.
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
Written by Mina Lucks, Synergy Design & Construction
The 2023 Reston Home Tour recently sparked our imagination with its theme “A Style All Their Own,” which beautifully encapsulates the essence of home renovation. For anyone who attended the tour, there were noticeably different energies as you entered each unique space, which is what makes each year’s tour such a highlight of the fall season. From the perspective of someone who sees a lot of clients chasing the latest design trends, the emphasis on the importance of building upon a homeowner’s personal sense of style when transforming a house into a home made this tour particularly special.
So how do you achieve the balance of form, function and personality? In this month’s article, we’ll delve into the significance of embracing your unique sense of style when tackling a renovation project to ensure the final product is truly “you”!
Create(ing) a Home with Personality
After living overseas for over 18 years, these Reston homeowners needed a complete overhaul of their 1968 colonial prior to their landing back state-side. Bringing home with them a blue upholstered sofa, a sound system with vintage record player, and a particular beloved rainbow rug, they were looking for more than a basic refresh.
Allowing their acquired contemporary European tastes to shine by fusing the warmth of walnut base cabinetry with contemporary white upper cabinets, they were able to create a modern yet eclectic aesthetic in their new Kitchen. Adding the vibrant teal handmade Fireclay tile — vertically stacked for a bolder statement — truly brings their whole space together in one cohesive statement that is uniquely “them.”
See more of this kitchen’s personality remodel here.
Achieve a Functional Fit for Your Lifestyle
Renovations aren’t just about making a home look good; they should also enhance its functionality. Aligning renovation choices with lifestyle preferences ensures a home serves its family in a way that is tailored to their individual needs.
This hockey-loving family with two teenagers wanted to create a space where they could not only spend time together as a family, but their kids could also have a fun and entertaining place to hang out with friends. The final result was an amazing new multi-layered space with a custom bar and cozy TV area and an adjacent space for games, creating a fun and functional space for friends and family of all ages.
Design Harmonious Spaces
Embracing style in a renovation doesn’t mean every room has to be drastically different from the next. It’s about finding a common thread or theme that ties everything together while still allowing for personal expression in each space. By incorporating a consistent color palette, texture, or design element throughout a home, one can achieve a sense of cohesion while still allowing each room to have its own unique charm.
This Reston homeowner took down an onerous wall in the middle of the home between their kitchen and dining room and brought the spaces together visually through complimentary cabinetry colors, warm wood elements and unique lighting features.
Whether your preferences are bold and contemporary or calm and casual, your home is an extension of you and should suit your character and taste. Even if you’re not exactly sure what your style is in the beginning, as you embark on a renovation journey you’ll begin to discover not only your personal sense of style, but ways your home can serve as a canvas for your individuality to shine through.
Not sure where to start? Get in touch with us today to take the first step in designing a home that is unapologetically a “style of your own.”
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.
The anticipation of winter fun is infectious!
If you’re not already planning, fear not — I’m here to assist. As we bid farewell to fall and welcome winter’s embrace, creating a winter bucket list is an excellent way to infuse excitement into the season and prioritize memorable experiences for all.
Here are some top picks to consider in Fairfax County and a little beyond:
- Winter Walk of Lights at Meadowlark Botanical Park: Experience the beauty of a winter wonderland as you stroll through the captivating lights, turning an ordinary evening into a magical one.
- Ice Skating at Reston Town Center: Embrace the charm of winter by gliding gracefully on ice, surrounded by the vibrant energy of Reston Town Center.
- Bull Run Festival of Lights: Illuminate your nights with the dazzling display at Bull Run, a spectacular festival that captures the essence of the season.
- Enchanted Christmas at Nationals Park: Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with this enchanting event, spreading joy and creating lasting memories.
- DMV Winter Lantern Festival: Be captivated by the artistry of lanterns, casting a warm glow and creating a mesmerizing atmosphere.
- Skiing or Tubing at Massanutten (Pro Tip — Pack a bathing suit for the indoor Waterpark): Enjoy the thrill of winter sports and extend the fun with a relaxing dip in the indoor Waterpark — a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
- Unleash Your Creative Side at Board & Brush: Channel your inner artist and create something uniquely yours, adding a personal touch to your winter experience.
- Culinary Excellence and Date Nights at Sur La Table: Elevate your winter evenings by exploring your culinary skills or indulging in a date night at Sur La Table, promising an exceptional experience that exceeds expectations.
As we embrace the colder months, let this Winter Bucket List be your guide to creating cherished moments and embracing the spirit of the season. Wishing you a joyful and enchanting winter season!
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 holiday season, join us at The Residence at Colvin Run for a festive celebration of local talent and holiday cheer at our Holiday Shoppe!
Located at 1131 Walker Road in Great Falls, Virginia, this enchanting event is set to take place on Tuesday, December 5, from 1-3 p.m.
Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season as we showcase a curated selection of wares from talented local craftspeople, artisans, and small businesses. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover unique holiday treasures and thoughtful gifts for your loved ones. Whether you’re a resident, family member, or part of the vibrant Great Falls community, everyone is welcome to join in the festivities.
The Residence at Colvin Run, an Assisted Living and Memory Care community, invites you to experience “Boutique Senior Living in the Heart of Great
Falls.”
Don’t miss this chance to add a touch of local magic to your holiday season!
We look forward to celebrating with you at The Residence at Colvin Run’s Holiday Shoppe.
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.
How does your plan for the future look? If you’re a planner, you’ve already got your investments and assets figured out, and your estate plan in order. But there are other important aspects of planning that are often ignored — such as laying the groundwork for your future quality of life.
More and more people are considering the solid advantages of Life Plan Communities. These age-restricted, amenity-rich communities invite people to live on their own terms, enjoying a host of services and opportunities, along with the added benefit of access to on-site health care services, if ever needed.
A local example of this is The Mather, a Life Plan Community opening in early 2024 in Tysons, Virginia, for those 62 and better.
An Engaged Lifestyle
Because you move into a Life Plan Community while you’re independent, you can take full advantage of the rewarding benefits of living there. At The Mather, residents will enjoy amenities such as:
- A fitness center with cardio and strength-training equipment, group classes, personal training options, and more
- A heated, saltwater lap pool, whirlpool, and sauna
- Inspiring social, educational, and cultural programs, such as digital media workshops, live music, art technology seminars, and featured lecturers
- An art studio for exploring creativity through art classes and collaborative Open Art Studio sessions
- A spa offering signature services like facials and massage, with a Himalayan salt wall and more
These and other amenities and services are designed to meet the needs and desires of today’s older adults — and they also support overall wellness.
Proven Benefits
A national, five-year study revealed clear associations between living in a Life Plan Community and enjoying better health. The Age Well Study is a large-scale national study conducted over five years by Mather Institute, involving a total of 8,228 residents living in 122 Life Plan Communities around the US.
The Age Well Study compared the health and well-being of people who live in Life Plan Communities to a demographically similar sample of older adults living in the community at large. The findings reveal that residents of Life Plan Communities reported better physical, emotional, intellectual, social, and vocational wellness than their community-dwelling counterparts over a five-year span, with more favorable ratings in social and intellectual wellness in particular.
Highlights of the findings include:
- In Year 5, Life Plan Community residents exhibited better self-reported health and higher levels of moderate physical activity compared to older adults from the community at large.
- From Year 1 to 5, social contact significantly increased for residents.
- From Year 1 to 5, overall engagement in intellectual activities significantly increased for residents and decreased for older adults in the community at large.
- Changes in emotional and spiritual wellness were more favorable for older adults in the community at large, while the two groups reported similar changes over time in physical and vocational wellness.
The Age Well Study’s statistical models examined 1) differences in wellness between groups (residents from Life Plan Communities vs. older adults from the community at large), 2) changes in wellness over time (Year 1 vs. Year 5), and 3) whether the changes in wellness were different for Life Plan Community residents compared to the community-at-large respondents. Analyses controlled for age, gender, income, education, and marital status.
The increase in social contact within Life Plan Communities is not surprising, since in a community like The Mather it’s easy to find neighbors with similar interests to form a hiking club, theater-going group, or other social groups.
These research findings support the fact that, for those making a plan for their future, Life Plan Communities like The Mather are worth a closer look.
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.
If you’re like me, I’m sure you love to create experiences with your family and friends while they’re in town or even better have an amazing day with your kids while they are out of school on Thanksgiving break.
Whatever the case, creating the perfect D.C. day is a must! I mean, let’s be honest, I’m sure you know someone who is a local, but hasn’t yet experienced all that D.C. has to offer. I mean it is our nation’s capital and people travel from all over the world to experience it, so why aren’t you?
A little secret about me, I spent over 15 years selling D.C. as a destination for conventions at Destination DC, so I have a passion and love for our nation’s capital and all things travel. Also, an insider’s perspective on why D.C. is an amazing place to visit and create memories. If you are ready to venture over the bridge, then here we go! Two of my favorite itineraries!
Experience D.C. Day 1 — The National Mall
I know so many locals that just forget how beautiful our city is and have not been to the National Mall in so long! I took all 3 of my kids in for this exact fun day and let’s just say it inspired me to write this column!
- Washington Monument (Plenty of street parking just reach out to me and I can always give you some pointers.) My kids love playing tag on the green space or even just rolling down the hill.
- Head over to the Lincoln Memorial. While capturing all the beauty along the way, make sure to get a glimpse of the World War II Memorial, District of Columbia War Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the NEW S. Park Police Horse Stables (my twins favorite).
- A day spent on the National Mall means packing lots of snacks and enjoying some of D.C.’s best known food trucks or museum eateries. The National Museum of The American Indian and US Holocaust Memorial Memorial Museum both have great food options that do not require museum entry tickets.
Experience D.C. Day 2 — Favorites with a Seasonal Flair
The itinerary for Day 2 shifts the focus away from the Mall while still offering unique D.C. experiences.
- Planet Word Museum (Time Entry Tickets available). Ideal for all ages, their tagline is “The museum where language comes to life.”
- Pick up gifts for family and friends at the DC Holiday Market in Penn Quarter/Chinatown.
- Compass Coffee (We all need coffee at this point.)
- The mission of the National Portrait Gallery is “to tell the story of America by portraying the people who shape the nation’s history, development and culture.”
- Grab an amazing Lunch or Dinner at Jaleo and Zaytinya (2 of my fav).
- Ice Skating in the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden (November 20, 2023 — March 3, 2024)
- I am a hotelier at heart so of course I am going to recommend 3 hotels to consider adding to your day or evening, all within walking distance of this day’s itinerary. Keep in mind I am referring to grabbing a beverage or an appetizer, or just walking through the lobby space to capture the holiday decor.
- Riggs is a remarkable landmark hotel that has a unique speakeasy that is guaranteed to offer a unique experience.
- Waldorf Astoria is a breathtaking hotel that has a style and elegance you will not regret checking out.
- The iconic Willard Hotel is definitely a hotel that cannot be duplicated with the amount of history and elegance. They are known for their High Tea; I can tell you from personal experience it is phenomenal.
If you love this and would like more insight, please reach out to me. Also, Destination DC is the one resource you need to bookmark, so please be sure to visit washington.org to create captivating memories with experiences that can only happen in D.C.!
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
