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.
When it comes to beating the summer heat, few things compare to the creamy, sweet indulgence of a delicious scoop of ice cream.
In Fairfax County, residents and visitors alike are spoiled for choice when it comes to ice cream parlors. From classic flavors to innovative creations, there’s something for everyone. Join us as we explore the top ice cream spots in Fairfax County, where you can cool off and satisfy your sweet tooth.
1. Woody’s Ice Cream (City of Fairfax): Is a beloved local gem known for its exceptional ice cream. Using only the finest ingredients, they craft creamy and delicious flavors that cater to all tastes. From timeless classics to unique specialties (smores is my fav), Woody’s offers an unforgettable ice cream experience.
2. Peterson’s Ice Cream Depot (Clifton): Is housed in a charming train depot building. Their old-fashioned ice cream is made on-site and features delightful flavors like black raspberry, butter pecan, and mint chocolate chip. Enjoy your cone while watching the trains go by.
3. Dolcezza Gelato (Mosaic): Bringing a touch of Italy to Fairfax County, Dolcezza Gelato in Fairfax offers artisanal gelato made from scratch using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. With flavors like honey lavender, Thai coconut milk, and dark chocolate, each scoop is a taste of pure indulgence.
4. Lazy Mike’s Delicatessen (Falls Church): While Lazy Mike’s Delicatessen is primarily known for its savory deli offerings, they also offer a yummy selection of ice cream to satisfy your sweet tooth. They provide a variety of classic flavors and toppings, ensuring that you can enjoy a delicious dessert alongside their savory offerings. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple cone or a decadent sundae, Lazy Mike’s Delicatessen has a sweet surprise waiting for you.
5. Jeni’s Ice Cream (The Boro): Is an acclaimed artisanal brand known for its exceptional flavors and high-quality ingredients. From classic favorites to innovative creations, every scoop is a delicious adventure. With a commitment to sustainability and a vibrant atmosphere, Jeni’s offers a memorable ice cream experience that leaves you wanting more.
Fairfax County is a haven for ice cream lovers and these 5 spots deliver the sweetest scoops in town. From traditional delights to innovative masterpieces, get ready for an unforgettable ice cream journey. So grab a spoon, your friends and family and dive into a world of frozen delights.
Your taste buds will thank you!
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 John V. Berry, Esq.
We represent federal employees in the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) complaint process before their federal agencies.
This article briefly describes how the EEO complaint process works for federal employees. Keep in mind that each federal agency is different but essentially follows the same rules. These rules can be found at the EEOC website in MD-110. It is important to get legal advice before filing an EEO complaint.
Reasons for EEO Complaints
Complaints of discrimination may be filed by federal employees or applicants for employment with a federal agency when they believe that they have been discriminated against in the workplace because of:
- race
- color
- religion (including reasonable accommodation of religious beliefs or practices)
- national origin (ancestry, ethnicity, accent, and/or use of a language other than English)
- physical/mental disability (including reasonable accommodation requests)
- sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation, abortion, and related medical conditions)
- sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression
- age (40 and above)
- parental status
- retaliation for prior protected EEO activity (one of the most common complaints)
- genetic information
Pre-complaint EEO Process
A federal employee seeking to file an EEO complaint must first contact an EEO counselor within 45 calendar days of the alleged discrimination or within 45 calendar days of the effective date of action.
EEO Counseling Process
When contacted by a federal employee, the assigned EEO Counselor will explain the EEO complaint process and provide a federal employee their rights and responsibilities. The federal employee may choose, at the time of initial contact, to attempt to settle the complaint through the alternative dispute resolution (ADR) process.
Formal Complaint Process
If the EEO complaint is not resolved through ADR or at the counseling stage, a federal employee may file a written formal complaint within 15 calendar days of receiving a document referred to as the Notice of the Right to file a Discrimination Complaint.
Acceptance or Dismissal
If a complaint is accepted by the agency (the majority of timely complaints are accepted for investigation) an investigator will be assigned by the federal agency to conduct an impartial investigation of the alleged discrimination claims. An investigator is able to administer oaths to obtain testimony from relevant witnesses and relevant documents.
Investigations and Report of Investigation
An EEO investigator will compile a Report of Investigation (ROI) containing relevant testimony and documentary evidence about the claims of discrimination but does not make any findings in a case. Typically, a federal agency is required to complete an investigation within 180 calendar days of receipt of the formal complaint, with possible extensions available.
Within 30 calendar days of receipt of the ROI, a federal employee can choose to (1) request a hearing by an EEOC judge (typically recommended); or (2) an agency decision on the complaint (usually not recommended). Other options exist based on the timing of the investigation.
Final Agency Decision
If a federal employee requests a final agency decision (FAD), the agency will issue a decision based on the information in the ROI. This process is not usually recommended because federal agencies rarely find themselves guilty of discrimination. If a federal employee is not satisfied with the FAD, they can appeal further to the EEOC or go to federal court.
EEOC Hearing
The EEOC hearing process is typically the best process for federal employees and usually must be requested within 30 calendar days of receipt of the ROI. The EEOC hearing process is similar to a civil trial and can include document requests and depositions. Legal representation is critical for the hearing process. After a hearing, the judge will issue a decision, either finding for the federal employee or agency. Such decisions can also be appealed.
Contact Us
If you are a federal employee and in need of legal representation or advice, 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
Welcome to The View Alexandria by Goodwin LivingTM, where people age 62 and over enjoy senior living at its best.
Conveniently located in the West End of Alexandria, The View Alexandria is the newest community to join the Goodwin Living family. Nonprofit and faith-based, Goodwin Living has been uplifting the lives of older adults since 1967.
Location Is Everything
Nestled in the hills overlooking Washington, D.C., on a beautiful seven-acre campus, The View Alexandria has breathtaking views of the city from its top floors and offers special excursions to the city’s many attractions. This mission-driven community offers a value-priced rental contract for independent living, assisted living and future long-term care, if needed — all conveniently located on one campus.
Campus Highlights
The campus of The View Alexandria has abundant amenities and community spaces to enjoy. Residents can stroll along walking paths through the gardens, enjoy restaurant-style dining, pick out a favorite book in the library, work out in the fitness room, express themselves in the creative arts center or simply relax in the privacy of their own comfortable home. From well-appointed studios to spacious two-bedroom apartments, there are options to fit every lifestyle and budget.
Best of all are the welcoming neighbors who quickly become friends. As one resident said, “What I like about The View Alexandria is that it is large enough to have so many activities, yet small enough that you really get to know people.”
Right now, you can take advantage of limited-time move-in specials. Learn more at 703.454.8946 or TheViewAlexandria.org.
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.
People who love their work are more likely to be happy, healthy, and optimistic. That’s good news for Helen Fall of Annandale, whose passion for music and teaching has translated into a fulfilling career.
If you’ve attended local symphony performances, you’ve likely heard Helen. She’s played viola in the Fairfax Symphony for 30 years, the Alexandria Symphony for nearly 32 years, and the Arlington Symphony (where she served as principal viola for 20 years). “The two symphonies (Fairfax and Alexandria) occasionally have conflicting dates for performances, so I have to choose between them,” Helen says. She has also performed in numerous chamber ensembles, including Argonne String Quartet and Fairfax Chamber Ensemble, and has been engaged as a soloist. But her passion is teaching young violin and viola students.
“I know so many people who are excited about retirement, but I don’t see myself stopping,” Helen says. “I’m so excited by what I do.” In fact, she and her husband Bob are preparing for a move next spring to The Mather, a Life Plan Community for those 62 and better that is opening in 2024 in Tysons. After the move, Helen will continue to work: “We’re moving into a large two-bedroom apartment, and one bedroom will be my music studio so I can continue teaching,” she says.
Moving to The Mather “was an easy decision,” according to Helen. “We thought it looked perfect — we’re moving in younger than we had planned, but we can’t pass this up — the opportunity to live in a new building, in a community like this. We’d talked about moving to D.C. to be close to everything.” She hopes to get together with other musicians living at The Mather. “Some of us have been in contact already, and are talking about playing together.”
In the meantime, Helen has a full schedule. Her summers are busy, as she works with high school students to get them ready for regional auditions at the beginning of the school year.
As of spring 2023, she has 14 students, though she tries to cap the number at 12. “I’m really proud of my students — they’re amazing kids. I get to see each of them every week for years; it’s almost like being a parent. One student who just graduated high school has been with me for nine years!”
Helen also does a lot of freelance coaching in high schools. All area schools have to perform in district assessments each year — their orchestra, band, and choir — where they are rated. “I’m hired by individual teachers to coach their sectionals,” she explains. “I do quite a bit of this type of coaching. Like a lot of musicians, I juggle a little of this and a little of that — there’s a wonderful energy to it.”
Her passion for teaching, coaching, and playing music prove that in building her life’s work, Helen is hitting all the right notes.
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 2024.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Red alert! Reston Station is filling a Blank Space in your summer plans!
Grab your Cardigan and Run to Reston Metro Plaza on Monday, July 3 for a FREE, LIVE, tribute concert to Taylor Swift from 7-9 p.m.
Missed the Eras Tour? Bring your friends, trade the friendship bracelets, and enjoy the next best thing! Playing songs from every Taylor Swift album, this is a show that will make Sparks Fly and have you feelin’ like you’re 22 all over again.
Come early or Stay, Stay, Stay late for dinner and drinks at one of the incredible restaurants on the Plaza including, Matchbox, Founding Farmers, Davio’s, Big Buns and Sweet Leaf. Also, enjoy three hours of free parking in the ParkX garage with validation.
However you Dress, come in Style… Bejeweled and Gorgeous! This is sure to be a night you’ll remember All Too Well.
To learn more about this and other events at Reston Station, visit, restonstation.com/events.
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 so much to offer the outdoor lover.
In this video you will see first-hand that the running trails are definitely at the top of the list!
Each trail has its uniqueness from easy accessibility to the benefit of getting long training runs for those marathoners (or ironmen).
Join us as we talk all things running — even a few tips.
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
1st Stage is thrilled to announce the extension of their electrifying production, The Last Match, due to overwhelming demand from audiences. Theater lovers now have even more opportunities to experience this enthralling drama through Sunday, July 2.
Written by the heralded playwright Anna Ziegler, The Last Match delves into the gripping world of professional tennis, where two tennis legends clash in an epic battle of skill, ego, and personal sacrifice. Ziegler’s razor-sharp dialogue and insightful exploration of human nature have struck a chord with theatergoers, resulting in sold-out performances and rave reviews.
Directed by 1st Stage Artistic Director Alex Levy, the production shines with its dynamic staging and exceptional performances. The skilled ensemble cast brings the complexities of their characters to life, immersing the audience in the intense emotional journey of these tennis icons. From exhilarating victories to crushing defeats, the stage pulsates with raw energy, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats until the final point.
1st Stage, known for its commitment to artistic excellence, has created a truly immersive experience. The impeccable design by renowned artists Jessica Alexandra Cancino (set), Alberto Segarra (lights), Kenny Neal (sound), Danielle Preston (costumes) and Cindy Jacobs (props) transports theatergoers onto center court, where every serve and volley feels palpable.
Tickets for the extended performances of The Last Match are selling rapidly, so don’t miss your chance to witness this gripping tale of ambition and rivalry before the production closes on July 2.
Get your tickets now at 1stStage.org!
Photos by Teresa Castracane Photography
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.
More than a game, mah-jongg offers opportunities to socialize with other players and is an effective workout for your brain.
“I’ve been playing mah-jongg for about 35 years, and teaching it for about 25,” says Janie Goldberg. “I love the social aspect — it’s just so much fun, and it never gets boring.” Janie and her husband Steve have lived in Telluride, Colorado, for more than 30 years and are deeply involved in the community. In addition to running the Telluride Mountain Mah-Jongg Group, Janie has led the board of the National Historic Landmark known as the Historic Lone Tree Cemetery District since 2014, and was also instrumental in getting the local humane society built. “My husband and I say that since we retired, we work full-time for free,” she jokes.
Despite their deep Colorado roots, Janie and Steve are looking forward to moving to The Mather, a Life Plan Community that is opening in 2024 in Tysons. “We have lots of friends in the D.C. area, and heard about The Mather from one of them,” says Janie. “It made sense to move closer to our family in New York. We wanted a Life Plan Community — it takes the burden away from our family — and Mather has a great reputation. It’s a great location, close to everything, with the Metro nearby, plus we’re hikers, and it’s near some good trails. And we enjoy other stimulating people who have led interesting lives.”
As for mah-jongg, she says, “It’s going to be perfect at The Mather. It really fits the bill of Aging Well.” She’s already offered a class to her future neighbors.
Research shows that people who regularly play mah-jongg can reap a handful of valuable health benefits.
Cognitive workout: Although there are many varieties of mah-jongg played around the world, “American” or “Western “mah-jongg is the version played in all 50 states. Mah-jongg requires concentration, pattern recognition, and strategizing — all of which can strengthen short-term memory and focus. Research shows that it also builds skills in decision-making, and can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline. One study showed that mah-jongg players enjoyed the cognitive benefits long after playing!
Social bonds: “The difference between mah-jongg and games like bridge is that mah-jongg is really social — it’s fun, you can laugh if you want to, and you can have the beverage of your choice,” says Janie. These opportunities for social interaction and connection — whether you’re playing with friends or new acquaintances — are great for your overall well-being. The game has been shown to reduce depression.
Stress relief: Any game or pastime you enjoy has a physical effect on the body, reducing stress and inducing relaxation; this has a positive effect on your physical and mental well-being.
Eye-hand coordination: Mah-jongg offers practice in fine motor skills, requiring speed and accuracy in matching tiles.
The good news is that there are ample opportunities to try your hand at mah-jongg. “It’s pretty much taken the country by storm,” says Janie. “You can go anywhere in the US and find a game.”
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 2024.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
By Nicola Caul Shelley, Synergy Design & Construction
Many homes in the local area were built in the 1980s, and with that comes some tell-tale design that can really date a home back to the days of big hair, leg warmers and home phones with really long cords. Admittedly, for some of us, it really doesn’t feel that long ago and since I still believe some of the best music came from that decade, there’s no judgment here! However, although fashion and phones have changed, as one year slips into the next, day-to-day life sometimes leaves little time (or energy for that matter) to focus on changing the spaces around us. So, this month, we’re providing some tips and ideas to update your 1980s home with transitional finishes.
Transitional design is a great way to blend more traditional design with modern finishes for an updated, fresh look. Not sure what transitional design is? Read our blog for more information about what transitional kitchen design means. Below, we also provide some examples from a recent home remodel in Reston. By their own admission, the owners of this local Reston home said it had become “lost” in the 1980s and they were ready to make some major changes.
1. Light brown/honey-colored cabinets
This color/style of cabinet is very common in this area in homes built in the 1980s. Many of our clients want a more updated look using lighter color finishes for cabinets. However, transitional design doesn’t mean white cabinets are the only option. In this example, our clients went with cabinets painted in a gray “Argent” color. Although wood cabinets and/or kitchen islands started making a comeback in popularity a few years ago (and score BIG design points when done right), the wood tones used now are very different to this color of cabinet. See examples here.
2. Fake bulkheads
In this photo, note the bulkhead running above the cabinets and window. Although there are sometimes AC ducts, pipes or electrical wiring running through bulkheads like this, many were added when homes were built as a way to lower the ceiling instead of installing ceiling height cabinets. Always seek professional help to determine what’s behind bulkheads or soffits, but if budget allows, a great way to create more storage and to help a kitchen feel bigger is to remove them and install taller upper cabinets instead.
3. Wallpaper
This one is TOUGH because, at Synergy, we LOVE wallpaper. However, the older style of wallpaper (think stripes in particular) or wallpaper borders is over. Back at our home remodel in Reston, we removed the wallpaper in the Powder Room, added a new vanity, new flooring (note the existing small, square tile) and painted the walls in this “Etched Glass” color to create a perfect transitional space!
4. Microwave-over-stove combos
There’s nothing wrong with a microwave over a stove combo. However, in many instances (but not all) the microwave recirculates air from the stove into the kitchen, rather than venting to the outside. We’re big believers in range hoods (whenever space allows) that serve one purpose of venting cooking smells outside and a separate undercounter drawer microwave. Microwave drawers are also a great addition to any kitchen from a universal design perspective: no more reaching up to lift hot food out of the microwave!
5. Small, square floor tile
Hugely popular in the 80s, this type of small, square floor tile creates an optical illusion — it actually makes a space look smaller because of all the grout lines. Getting rid of this type of tile will provide an updated, modern look to your home. Think large format tile or new hardwood that runs throughout a space for a cohesive look. If you use too many floor finishes, the eye is drawn to the start-stop points in each room which makes the overall space feel smaller. This is also a great example of how many 1980s homes just don’t have enough cabinets. With no cabinets on the right hand side, our clients had no option but to use free standing shelves for storage of their overflow everyday items and small appliances.
6. Kitchens closed off from the rest of the home/No ‘flow’ between spaces
The #1 request we get from clients living in 1980s homes? Create a more open concept and/or better flow in the kitchen and main level! We all know everyone ends up in the kitchen no matter how nice your other entertaining spaces are, so it makes sense that most homeowners are “over” the closed-in kitchen that is completely separated from the rest of the home. You don’t have to go all-in on the open concept. In our case study, we added a peninsula island for casual dining which not only provided additional storage (and created room for a microwave drawer), it helps create a separation of space between the kitchen and the breakfast nook/family room without the kitchen feeling closed off. The other issue we often find in 80s homes is poor lighting. This is a great example of how the addition of recessed lighting makes a huge difference to the entire space.
7. Red brick fireplaces
We love a cozy family room. Many 1980s floor plans incorporated a family room adjoining the kitchen with a large red brick fireplace at one end. The problem is dark red tile can make a room feel even darker if you have dark cabinets/dark paint/dark furniture elsewhere in the space. A quick-and-easy way to modernize the look and brighten things up is to paint the brick the same color as the walls or white/off white and replace or paint the polished brass of the fire surround (note: special high heat paint must be used). Instant update! In our case study, the homeowners opted to do that as well as add two beautiful built-ins on either side. Love.
See more before and afters of this home remodel here.
Our clients now say Synergy is the best thing that’s ever happened to their home. If you’re thinking of a home remodel but not sure where to start, find out more about our services here and read how we’ve helped other homeowners in the area renovate happy here.
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.
Get ready to make this summer an epic adventure for your family in Fairfax County!
From thrilling outdoor escapades to cultural discoveries and delectable delights, we’ve compiled the ultimate Summer Family Bucket List to ensure an unforgettable season of fun. So put on your sunscreen, grab your shades, and join us as we explore the best activities and hidden gems that our area has to offer.
Get ready to create memories that will have your family reminiscing for years to come, because this summer, Fairfax County is the place to be for excitement, laughter, and quality time together.
Let the summer adventures begin!
- Visit Great Falls Park: Explore the beautiful Great Falls Park located along the Potomac River. Enjoy scenic views, hiking trails, and picnic areas perfect for a family day out.
- Explore the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center: Located near Dulles International Airport, this museum features an impressive collection of aviation and space artifacts. It’s a great place for kids and adults alike to learn and be inspired.
- Spend a day at Mount Vernon: Visit George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate and gardens. Take a tour of the mansion, visit the museum, and learn about the life of the first U.S. president. The property also hosts special events during the summer.
- Enjoy water activities at Lake Fairfax Park: Rent paddleboats or go fishing at Lake Fairfax Park. The park also offers a water park, hiking trails, and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for a family outing.
- Explore Meadowlark Botanical Gardens: Discover the beauty of Meadowlark Botanical Gardens with its stunning landscapes, colorful flowers, and serene walking paths. The Children’s Garden section is especially designed to engage and entertain young visitors.
- Take a trip to the National Zoo: So, this one is not located in Fairfax County, but the Smithsonian’s National Zoo is so close. Home to a wide variety of animals, it’s the perfect place to explore exhibits, attend animal feedings and demonstrations, and enjoy a fun-filled day surrounded by wildlife.
- Attend a Rock the Block summer concert at Old Town Square in Downtown Fairfax or outdoor movie Films in the Park at Mosaic: Many parks and town centers in Fairfax County offer free summer concerts and outdoor movie screenings.
- Discover the Workhouse Arts Center: Visit the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, where you can explore galleries, attend art classes, and enjoy live performances. The center often hosts family-friendly events and exhibitions.
- Go on a nature hike: Fairfax County offers numerous hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. Check out parks like Burke Lake Park, Scott’s Run Nature Preserve, and Hemlock Overlook Regional Park for beautiful trails suitable for families.
- Enjoy a day at the water park: Cool off at one of the water parks in Fairfax County, such as Atlantis Waterpark in Centreville or the Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole in Reston. These parks offer slides, pools, and water play areas perfect for summer fun.
Whatever you decide, enjoy the moments and embrace making lasting memories!
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
Red alert! Reston Station is filling a Blank Space in your summer plans!
Grab your Cardigan and Run to Reston Metro Plaza on Monday, July 3 for a FREE, LIVE, tribute concert to Taylor Swift from 7-9 p.m.
Missed the Eras Tour? Bring your friends, trade the friendship bracelets, and enjoy the next best thing! Playing songs from every Taylor Swift album, this is a show that will make Sparks Fly and have you feelin’ like you’re 22 all over again.
Come early or Stay, Stay, Stay late for dinner and drinks at one of the incredible restaurants on the Plaza including, Matchbox, Founding Farmers, Davio’s, Big Buns and Sweet Leaf. Also, enjoy three hours of free parking in the ParkX garage with validation.
However you Dress, come in Style… Bejeweled and Gorgeous! This is sure to be a night you’ll remember All Too Well.
To learn more about this and other events at Reston Station, visit, restonstation.com/events.
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.
The path to wellness is a very personal journey, and one that is unique for each of us. That’s why organizations that are committed to helping people meet their wellness goals see positive results when focus is placed on individual preferences.
At The Mather, a Life Plan Community for those 62 and better opening in Tysons in 2024, resident wellness will be supported through some “person-centric” amenities and offerings — designed to be customizable to individual goals, needs, and desires. Far beyond the community’s fitness center with a group exercise studio, cardio/weight training, and an indoor pool, The Mather will support each resident’s wellness through myriad offerings, including some cutting-edge technology and holistic classes.
This is fitting of an organization that has earned top honors in wellness: operator Mather earned top industry awards in the area, with their Life Plan Community in Tucson ranked #1 in wellness among senior living communities in all of North America, earning a ICAA NuStep Top 5 Pinnacle Award for exceptional, above-and-beyond performance using wellness as a foundation, and partnering with residents and staff to create relevant, meaningful opportunities that empower people to age well. (The same awards ranked Mather’s Illinois Life Plan Community among the top 25 on the continent, and recognized CEO Mary Leary as one of the Top 5 Wellness CEOs in senior living in North America.)
Mather’s unique approach to resident and staff wellness is based on the Person-Centric Wellness Model, which was developed by Mather Institute, the organization’s research area. Grounded in scientific research, it offers an evolved approach to whole-being wellness that empowers individuals to choose the types of fulfillment that match their aspirations. The model will be applied to offerings at The Mather, from cultural and educational programs to creative arts offerings to the fitness center’s group classes, personal training, and equipment.
Below is just a sampling of the unique wellness offerings planned for the community:
Vibrational Therapy & Audio Frequencies
The spa at The Mather will house a Gharieni Welnamis spa wave bed. This bed uses computer-controlled vibrational therapy and audio frequencies to train the brain to relax. Similar to meditation, certain sounds heard through stereo headphones slow mental activity, while the bed’s vibrational frequencies target the body’s energy centers. Users can adjust settings on the spa bed to address their specific wellness goal, such as reducing stress, increasing concentration or creativity, or improving sleep quality, among many other focuses — along with duration and other customizable features.
Holistic Wellness Sessions
Programs at The Mather cover a variety of wellness approaches, from traditional fitness classes to some holistic offerings such as sound wellness. Sound wellness refers to using audio — including music, acoustic resonance, and/or vibration — to boost our well-being. Science has shown that sound has a profound effect on our physical health, mood, mental health, and overall well-being. Sound therapies and sound-bathing workshops can target stress or fatigue, trigger rest and recovery, or boost productivity.
Spa Treatments for Whole-Person Wellness
Imagine a spa where you can snip herbs and flowers from a live plant wall for tea and customized spa treatments… where you can test out zero-gravity seating to improve your circulation and relieve pain… where you can bathe in the healing air from a Himalayan salt wall. The Mather’s spa will include all this, along with signature skin treatments and hair and nail services.
“The Mather is attracting a diverse group of older adults,” says Mary Leary, CEO of Mather. “As a result, we aim to incorporate wellness practices from around the world, including Wyda movement theory of the Celtic Druids, which helps people achieve harmony with nature and contentment through mindfulness.” This holistic regenerative approach is similar to Qi Gong and yoga, while originating in a different part of the world.
Wellness options like those outlined above hint at the broad range of choices we have when pursuing our personal wellness. When it comes to taking care of your health, think outside the gym!
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 2024.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Are you looking for a flexible master’s degree that will help you advance in your career? Consider George Mason University’s Global Commerce and Policy master’s program!
Broader than an MBA or economics degree and more focused than a master’s in international affairs, this program will immerse you in the nexus of business, economics, international relations, and public policy.
The Master of Global Commerce and Policy Program is available in-person in Arlington, online, or hybrid, as well as part-time, or full-time.
It’s not too late to enroll for the fall semester! The Arlington-based Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University has extended the fall application deadline for domestic applicants to June 30.
Global Commerce and Policy Lunch and Learn
Wednesday, June 21, Noon to 1 p.m. Eastern
Virtual event
To learn more about graduate programs at the Schar School, register for the virtual information session or fill out our inquiry form.
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.
It is important to obtain legal advice prior to meeting with security clearance investigators when potential security clearance problems are anticipated.
When individuals have difficulties in the security clearance process or anticipate future problems, the best advice that can be given is to prepare in advance for the meeting. Preparation for the first security clearance meeting can make the difference between a government contractor/federal employee successfully obtaining/retaining a security clearance or being denied one.
Preparing for the Initial Security Clearance Investigator Meeting
One of the most important considerations in meeting with a security clearance investigator for the first time is to adequately prepare for the meeting, especially where there may be potential disqualifying security concerns. We find that most government contractors and federal employees have a general sense of potential security concerns that could arise at the time that they begin to review or complete their e-QIP/SF-86 submissions.
In the most common scenario, an individual is usually alerted to potential problems that may require preparation for the clearance process when they find that they may have to answer “yes” to a certain question and then provide formal disclosures to an uncomfortable question, such as the use of drugs or past financial debts. When these types of issues are anticipated, then one should seek counsel and prepare in advance of a meeting with a security clearance investigator.
Review Relevant Documentation
If a potential security concern exists, it is important to gather as much information and documentation one has on the issue of concern in preparation for the interview. Such information, if useful, can be provided to security clearance investigators at the start. At other times, the information can be useful for later in the clearance process, if needed.
For example, suppose an individual knows that they have a large outstanding debt on their credit report. If so, then that information will certainly be important to review prior to a meeting with a security clearance investigator.
Respond to the Questions Asked
In regard to meetings between government contractors/federal employees and security clearance investigators, one other issue that we run across is the tendency of some individuals to provide information not sought by an investigator.
We advise government contractors and federal employees to answer the questions asked by investigators as honestly as possible but stick to the actual questions that are posed. On many occasions, individuals can get sidetracked or provide information that is not relevant to the questions asked by an investigator, which may cause clearance difficulties later or cause frustration for the investigator.
The usual key to a successful interview is to be as responsive as possible to any areas of concern but to make the meeting with the clearance investigator as efficient as possible. Investigators tend to have many cases to review and like to focus on their particular areas of concern. The better an individual can honestly address specific issues raised by an investigator, the better the potential outcome.
When issues arise, it is important to consult with counsel to obtain the best legal advice possible in presenting one’s response to difficult questions.
Follow-up Interviews or Requests by the Investigator
A security clearance investigator may need additional information regarding potential security concerns or need to interview an individual a second time. We typically advise individuals to attempt to anticipate these requests in advance.
For example, if an investigator appears to have questions about one’s psychological issues during an initial interview, it may be helpful to attempt to obtain a letter from a medical professional soon after that shows that the psychological concerns are under control and have been resolved. Doing so in advance can save time and effort later and may resolve issues early should the investigator come back with additional questions.
Contact Us
If you are in need of security clearance legal representation or advice, please contact our office at 703-668-0070 or through our contact page to schedule a consultation. Please also visit and like us on Facebook or Twitter.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
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The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
