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.
Sold by Sharmane and Style by Valentine teamed up to bring you some quick and easy tips to ease into your summer style without the stress.
“More than any other season, summer style can be a struggle for just about everyone.” Says personal stylist Katie Valentine, from Style by Valentine.
We start out with the best intentions, but heat, humidity, bugs, and pit stains tend to throw a damper on even the most ardent summer fans. Summer is also a time when a lot of our favorite style tricks stop working. Katie says clients often wonder how to look pulled together when wearing a third piece feels out of the question. But just because the sun won’t quit, doesn’t mean your style has to.
Here are 3 easy ways to transition your style from spring to summer:
- Change your shoes. Instead of sneakers or heels, grab sandals and instantly cool off your feet, but not your style. “For this trick you want to think transitioning from closed to open toes,” suggests Katie. Pro tip, she suggests using color to unify the seasons. So, if you love to wear your white sneakers or flats in the spring, invest in a pair of white sandals. That way you don’t have to rethink your outfits. You are literally just changing your shoes.
- Accessories: Belts, purses, hats, and shoes made of raffia, weaves, and canvas are killer summer accessories to own and will instantly change the look and feel of your outfits. “Leather goods are still fine, as leather is breathable,” says Katie. But make sure you reach for warmer and neutral toned leather accessories.
- Third piece magic but make it summer. “Third pieces are one of the easiest ways to pull your look together AND flatter your figure,” says Katie. But who wants to wear a third piece when it’s 90 degrees out? She recommends investing in a summer blazer if your work life requires it, or a jean jacket or short sleeve cardigan if you lead a more casual lifestyle. Linen and open weaves are both trendy and will keep you cool. And remember, a shirt can be a third piece if it is worn open over a tank or dress.
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 Knutson Companies is thrilled to announce new opportunities for Loudoun County living with the release of a new section of rooftop terrace townhomes and a brand new community of garage townhomes. Each community offers a distinctive living experience tailored to fit your family’s lifestyle, blending Knutson’s signature classic design with the convenience and vibrancy of Brambleton.
The spacious townhomes in the new section at Knutson at Downtown Brambleton offer up to 5 bedrooms, nearly 3,000 square feet of living space and a loft and rooftop terrace — your Yard in the Sky. The previous section sold out quickly and this new section is now open for sales from the high $700s.
Knutson West Park at Brambleton presents a new community of garage townhomes from the mid $600s. These homes boast private backyards, ideal for family fun and neighborhood gatherings, 3 bedrooms and flexible home office space.
Both communities have a coveted location within walking distance of Downtown Brambleton, a retail hub with a plethora of dining, shopping and entertainment options. The Brambleton neighborhood also offers homeowners access to award-winning neighborhood schools, sport courts, walking trails, pools and more. There are also year-round community events with activities for everyone in the family to enjoy.
These homes provide the perfect backdrop for life’s next chapter, offering sought-after new construction options in Loudoun County and embodying the Knutson Companies’ commitment to crafting exceptional living spaces in enriching neighborhoods.
Learn more and schedule a tour at DowntownBrambleton.com and KnutsonatWestPark.com.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Earn top dollar with full benefits!
When you join the Electrical Alliance, you get to contribute to the biggest projects in the area, all while earning top dollar and employer paid benefits.
As an Electrical Alliance worker, you get:
- Salary Range $11.50 — $54.00/Hour
- Paid Apprenticeship
- Continuing education to advance within the industry
- Safer working conditions and top-tier safety training
- Full Family medical care, eye care, dental care, and EAP programs
- Paid time off
- Employer Paid Retirement Benefits: Pensions and Annuity
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Written by Mina Lucks, Synergy Design & Construction
While adopting sustainable changes may seem overwhelming at first, taking small and intentional steps in our interior environment is an easy way to care for our outdoor environment.
In this blog, we explore the use of sustainable practices and eco-friendly materials that harmonize with modern design trends.
Repurpose and Reimagine
By choosing to remodel, you’re already making a positive impact! Preserving and restoring an existing home is a more sustainable option compared to buying or constructing a new house.
During your remodel, embrace creativity and think outside the box. Consider switching up items’ functions or giving them new life in another space. Maybe the living room lamp would work better in the kid’s room, or instead of discarding old sinks and towel racks, repurpose them into unique pieces for your garden, such as plant holders.
Once you know you’re ready to part with something, try giving it to a friend, donating, or recycling before sending things to the landfill. There are many great resources to choose from — these are several of our go-to’s:
Eco-Friendly Materials
Modern design offers a wide range of eco-friendly materials that achieve wonderful quality and aesthetics.
Popular sustainable materials include reclaimed wood, recycled glass, bamboo, and so much more. You might be surprised by options like countertops made with post-industrial scrap waste and recycled paper. Not only are these materials stunning, but they also offer a great alternative to granite, which is non-renewable and fossil fuel-heavy due to long-distance transportation.
Even paint choices can have environmental and health impacts. Opting for low or zero-VOC paints instead of traditional ones reduces air pollutants and promotes a healthier indoor space. Low VOC paints, with lower concentrations of harmful chemicals, are especially beneficial for children, the elderly, and those with asthma or allergies.
Sustainable Practice of Embracing Natural Light
Embracing natural light is a sustainable practice that doesn’t require a full-scale renovation.
If you’re ready for a more transformative remodel, replacing windows without mullions is a popular trend that increases light in a space. Look at this before and after to notice the change!
You can also consider taking down walls to open an area and flood it with daylight, reducing the need to use your lights. This enhances the sense of openness and interconnectedness throughout your home.
Check out how we removed a fireplace wall to create an open-concept space with abundant natural light and better connection to the backyard.
Create a Sustainable Home with Synergy
Eco-friendly materials and practices and modern living go hand in hand, and we encourage you to take an active role in planning for a sustainable future!
If you’re looking for guidance, Synergy Design and Construction’s Founder and Certified Green Professional, Mina Lucks, has the expertise to help you navigate the world of sustainable design.
Reach out today to get started with Synergy!
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.
Spring is a magical time in the D.C. Metro area, where cherry blossoms bloom, temperatures warm up, and outdoor activities abound.
Whether you’re a local Fairfax resident aspiring to become a D.C. tourist or just ready for some spring fun around the area, there are plenty of exciting things to do and explore during this vibrant season.
Become an Outdoor Explorer
Take advantage of the mild weather to explore the region’s parks and outdoor spaces. Visit Great Falls Park for breathtaking views of the Potomac River and hiking trails, or head to Shenandoah National Park for a day of scenic drives and wildlife spotting. Additionally, local parks like Burke Lake Park, Rock Creek Park, and Theodore Roosevelt Island offer serene settings for picnics and outdoor recreation near Fairfax County.
Become the Historian of the Family or a Museum Junkie
Spring is an ideal time to explore the area’s wealth of museums and historic landmarks. In Fairfax County check out the Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center, Reston Museum, Lucy Burns Museum, Gunston Hall, and George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate.
Of course, you can also wander through world-class museums in D.C. that are free, such as the National Museum of American History and the National Gallery of Art, to immerse yourself in art, culture, and history. Don’t forget to visit iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Capitol Hill for a glimpse into the nation’s past and present.
Outdoor Dining and Farmer’s Market Guru
Indulge in the diverse culinary scene of Northern Virginia and D.C. by dining al fresco at local restaurants and cafes. Many establishments offer outdoor seating options, allowing you to savor delicious meals while soaking up the sunshine. Additionally, explore the vibrant farmers’ markets in the area, such as Mosaic, Fairfax City, Reston, Eastern Market and Dupont Circle, to sample fresh produce, artisanal goods, and gourmet treats.
Outdoor Festivals and Events
Spring brings a flurry of festivals and events to the region, celebrating everything from music and art to food and culture. Attend the Virginia Gold Cup, a beloved horse racing event held in May, or explore neighborhood festivals like the Manassas Spring Carnival, Earth Day Fairfax, Shipgarten’s Sour & Gummies Festival, and Reston StreetFest. Check local event calendars for the latest happenings and plan your spring itinerary accordingly.
With its array of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and culinary delights, spring in Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. offers something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re admiring flowers blooming, exploring historic landmarks, or indulging in local cuisine, make the most of this season in our area!
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
McLean-based Golden Boot Soccer has been a leader in youth soccer skill development and fun for nearly 30 years, and this summer features even more of their popular camps.
These morning, half-day and full-day programs for ages 3 to 13 combine positive, professional trainers with engaging activities and challenges, often featuring their signature cogno-technical approach.
“Cognitive training is a fancy way of saying we train the body and brain together,” says Golden Boot president and founder Tamir Linhart.
“Our specialized curriculum improves soccer intelligence, reaction time, decision-making, situational awareness, and memory, while also developing technical skills such as passing, receiving, dribbling and finishing. The result is players who are always thinking ahead and are able to make positive and intelligent decisions on the field.”
Cognitive training is folded into each Golden Boot session, using innovative and creative activities appropriate to each level.
This summer, Golden Boot offers a variety of options for all ages and levels, including special camps for travel players, a VIP week featuring college and professional coaches, and an international week focused on Italian pro clubs. Most weeks feature morning Lil’ Boots camps for ages 3-4 and 5-6, plus half-day or full-day options such as Ball Mastery (ages 7-8), Positive Touch Footskills (ages 9-13), Art of Scoring Goals (ages 9-13) and Goalkeeper Training (ages 8-13). All full-day camps include indoor access, giving players air-conditioned breaks throughout the day.
“We plan our schedules with kids’ needs in mind,” explains Linhart.
In addition to Fairfax, Golden Boot has more camps planned in McLean, Vienna, Burke and Arlington, plus weekly skills classes on Saturday mornings.
If there’s one thing that’s constant at Golden Boot, it’s their commitment to innovation and growth.
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 firm defends security clearance holders and applicants (federal employees, government contractors, and military personnel) when security issues arise. Here are some tips to consider when starting the security clearance process:
- Consult with an Attorney for Legal Advice When Issues May Arise: It is important to consult with an attorney as early in the process as possible if there is the possibility of negative security issues arising. An individual has the best chance of resolving security concerns when they recognize a potential security concern and seek legal advice early. Doing so at the beginning of the clearance process usually maximizes the ability of an individual to mitigate any security concerns. When an individual has serious security concerns the longer they wait for legal advice the more difficult overcoming the issues may become.
- Answer Security Clearance Forms Carefully: It is pretty common for individuals to receive clearance denials because they did not adequately read the questions or proofread their responses on the SF-86/e-QIP before submission. Additionally, many questions on security clearance forms can be confusing which can lead to incorrect responses. A mistake on security clearance forms can lead to an assumption that the individual has not been truthful in their application.
- The Importance of Truthfulness: When an individual is not truthful during the clearance process it not only can bar the individual from receiving a security clearance but can raise a host of other legal issues. For example, it is a lot easier for a security clearance lawyer to mitigate security clearance concerns involving prior drug or alcohol usage, than it is to defend against an allegation that the individual was not truthful in their clearance application or interview about these issues. A potential caveat here might be if the issue involves alleged criminal activity so it is important to consult with counsel.
- Prepare for an Investigative Interview: If an individual knows that there is a good chance that problem areas exist in a security clearance application, he or she should expect to be asked about the areas in advance by the assigned investigator. Preparation (and practice) for the interview can help prepare for any problem areas in advance.
- Don’t React Defensively in Interviews: When asked about problem areas in a security clearance application by an investigator, do not react defensively. It is important to be calm and positive about the issues when speaking to an investigator. This is why we generally recommend preparing with counsel for a security clearance interview if there are significant security issues that may be raised. Arguing or acting defensive with an investigator will never benefit an individual in a security clearance investigation.
Contact Us
When potential security clearance issues arise, it is important to obtain the advice of an experienced security clearance lawyer as early in the clearance process as possible. Our law firm advises and represents individuals 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
Join Our Team at Great Clips in Northern Virginia!
Are you a licensed stylist or barber looking for an exciting opportunity in the vibrant haircare industry? Look no further! Our Great Clips salons are seeking talented professionals like you to join our dynamic team.
Why Choose Us?
As an independently owned and veteran-owned small business, we understand the importance of providing competitive compensation and exciting growth opportunities for our team members. Here’s what we offer:
- Competitive Guaranteed Hourly Salary: We believe in valuing your skills and dedication. That’s why we offer a competitive guaranteed hourly salary, ensuring you stability and financial security.
- Lucrative Sales Commission on Products: Your hard work deserves recognition! In addition to your base salary, you’ll have the opportunity to earn generous sales commissions on our premium haircare products.
- Free Professional Development Training: At our Great Clips salons, we prioritize your growth and success. Take advantage of our free professional development training sessions, where you can enhance your skills, stay up-to-date with the latest trends, and unlock your full potential as a stylist or barber.
- Opportunities for Career Advancement: We’re committed to fostering a supportive environment where you can thrive and advance in your career. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience under your belt, there’s ample opportunity for growth and promotion.
- Additional Benefits: While we offer a competitive compensation package, benefits such as paid time off may vary from one location to another. However, we strive to create a positive work environment where you feel valued and appreciated every day.
Who Are We Looking For?
We welcome stylists and barbers of all ages and backgrounds to apply! Whether you’re looking to embark on a new career path or excited about continuing your journey with a great international brand, we believe this is a great opportunity for you. If you’re enthusiastic about haircare, customer service-oriented, and eager to grow both personally and professionally, we want to hear from you!
Join Our Team Today!
Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to be part of a thriving salon community in northern Virginia. Apply now to take the first step toward a rewarding career with us at Great Clips!
To apply, please click the link below and determine which location is the best fit for you.
Our locations include:
• Turnpike Shopping Center ( 3989 Pickett Road, Fairfax, VA 22031)
• South Lakes Village Center (11130 South Lakes Drive Unit E; Reston, Virginia 20191)
We are seeking:
Full-time stylists, barbers (32 hours per week)
Part-time stylists, barbers (18 hours per week)
Flex-time stylists, barbers (less than 18 hours per week)
Salon Manager (for Fairfax location)
* Salon Assistant Manager (for Fairfax location)
We can’t wait to welcome you to our team!
Job details
Employer: Meliorist Inc DBA Great Clips
Position: Hairstylist, Barber
Employment type: Full-time
Workplace type: Fully in-person (in 3989 Pickett Road, Fairfax, VA 22031)
Compensation: $ 15 (Hourly)
Application deadline: 04/14/2024 11:59 PM
Contact for application questions: [email protected]
[Apply via web]
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.
In the heart of Tysons Corner, Seasons 52 offers a culinary experience that celebrates the best of each season. With a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and a commitment to calorie-conscious dining with an ambiance that will provide an elevated experience every time.
One thing that I definitely appreciate and have experienced first hand is the reality that Seasons 52 takes pride in crafting dishes that are not only delicious but also mindful of calorie counts with nutritional values.
By utilizing natural ingredients and innovative cooking techniques, they create flavorful meals without compromising on health. From vibrant salads to succulent entrees, each dish is thoughtfully prepared to provide a balanced and satisfying dining experience.
If you are planning a special occasion you definitely want to check out the unique event space with customized menus that will wow you attendees. Why settle for your typical ballroom space?
Get the insider scoop with this exclusive video with Managing Partner, Matt Beverley. You will definitely want to add this to your dining adventures!
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.
Gone are the days when spas were simply places where you would choose from a menu of three or four massage options. Today, trends in day spas and the self-care industry are in step with a broader trend of personalized wellness.
“People today want products and services that are customized to their specific needs, whether related to skin care or body work,” says William Wesley Myers, assistant vice president of wellness strategies for Mather, the organization that recently opened The Mather, a Life Plan Community for those 62 and better in Tysons, Virginia. “This trend is not surprising — it’s similar to what’s happening in other wellness areas, such as boutique fitness centers and exercise studios, the prevalence of personal training, and even individualized dietary supplement plans.”
The spa at The Mather, called Marzenia (the Polish word for hopes or aspirations), offers luxury services that are based on a mix of high-tech and holistic features. For example, residents might begin their spa visit at the Blend Bar, which features a live herb wall, collection of dried herbs and aromatics, and library of global wellness recipes. Working with a spa professional, they can concoct their own unique natural therapies, whether that means mixing a detoxifying mud or making a revitalizing scrub. “We offer a range of solutions that’s as diverse as the needs they meet, each crafted to address specific conditions of the skin and body,” explains William.
Holistic treatments such as this are a powerful spa trend. “People today are more conscious of what they put in — and on — their bodies,” says William. “By offering natural ingredients and therapies, we avoid introducing chemicals and, at the same time, lessen our community’s environmental footprint.” The Mather is working with Comfort Zone, an Italian company that uses natural products with a focus on global sustainability. “We use their line of regenerative, effective, and sustainable face and body products, treatments, and rituals, which are developed in a scientific botanical garden in Parma, Italy,” says William.
Residents of The Mather can also enjoy the all-natural therapeutic benefits of Marzenia’s Breath Lounge, which features a wall of Himalayan sea salt and a halogenerator that releases microscopic salt particles into the air. “Evidence-based research shows that this treatment promotes respiratory health, reduces inflammation, and enhances relaxation,” says William. “Regular sessions can significantly enhance your overall wellness, offering both physical and mental health benefits.”
Another spa trend, which may seem to be the flip side of holistic treatments, is offerings based on technology. “Today’s consumers are not afraid to embrace high-tech options, particularly when we can show them the research backing up the outcomes,” says William.
One example of this is the Gharieni Welnamis spa wave bed, which 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.
“The wave bed can specifically target stress, depression, and poor sleep, as well as headaches and difficulty focusing,” says William. “The technology was developed to treat post-traumatic stress disorders of American veterans — but we offer it to allow residents to select their desired wellness journey.”
Another wellness-tech option available in The Mather: a private sauna, which uses infrared light therapy to boost circulation, relieve muscle tension, and promote cellular renewal. “This advanced technology gently heats the body, promoting deep muscle relaxation, enhancing detoxification, and boosting circulation, all within a comfortably warm environment. It’s an ideal start to stimulate your body’s natural healing process,” says William.
Those interested in self-care have so many more options now than in the recent past; it should be easy to build effective, personalized treatments that target personal goals and needs, whether that treatment involves live herbs or audio frequencies. “Everyone’s wellness journey is unique, and there’s no reason you can’t use a spa visit to create your very own transformative experience,” says William.
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 opened in March 2024.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
If you’re asking, “how can I spice things up in the bedroom?,” then you’re asking the wrong question. The real solution, according to Espinoza Therapy, is understanding what’s holding you back.
It’s not about trying new tricks to spark romance. It’s about figuring out the obstacles that block intimacy every day.
These obstacles might be:
- Mental health issues, like stress or anxiety
- General tiredness or exhaustion with your life
- Tension in your relationship caused by ongoing arguments
All of these can seriously affect how you feel about connection, romance and pleasure.
So what should you be asking instead?
Start by identifying the blocks to intimacy in your life, and working together with your partner to overcome them. This will create a stronger bond and a more intimate atmosphere. The key is knowing that relationships – and the people in them – are complicated. Real intimacy needs honest communication, understanding, and empathy.
If you want to dig deeper with the guidance of a qualified therapist, contact Espinoza Therapy for a free 15 minute video consultation.
Let us help you communicate better with your partner, for a more intimate and satisfying relationship!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Intriguing international dishes. Flavorful fresh ingredients and from-scratch recipes. Inspired, ever-changing menus. An in-house beverage program featuring craft cocktails and an enviable wine list.
These are all things you might enjoy at a five-star resort or world-class hotel… and you’ll also find them at The Mather, a Life Plan Community for those 62 and better that opened in Tysons this month.
“It’s time to scrap outdated ideas about food and beverage offerings in senior living,” says Thad Parton, AVP of Restaurant Operations for Mather, the parent organization of The Mather. “Residents at The Mather are connoisseurs of fine food and wine, world travelers, and discerning diners who seek out top-rated restaurants wherever they live and travel. Our menus and experiences are designed to meet their expectations and tastes.”
Each of The Mather’s three restaurants, as well as its bar and lounge, has a distinct menu, and all are rotated regularly to offer creative new selections. Menus showcase cuisines from around the world including sushi, Berkshire Pork Bao, Mushroom Biryani, and crab cakes with mango-habanero salsita.
The Mather’s enticing food and beverage program is supported by the culinary standards and philosophy of Mather. Mather has been highlighted by the New York Times as a prime example of senior living residences offering residents top chefs and “foodie delights.”
The Mather takes local, seasonal food to the next level, adding inspired touches from inside their community:
- A dedicated bake shop/pastry shop features a German-made, state-of-the-art bread oven.
- On-site honey production by Italian honeybees will be available (starting late spring 2024) through a partnership with an urban beekeeping program.
- Specially trained team members make coffee and espresso drinks to order, using beans from an Alexandria-based coffee roaster.
- A hydroponic micro-farm provides opportunity for year-round fresh herbs and edible flowers to be used for special culinary events and resident programs.
In addition to these special touches, The Mather will use technology to enhance residents’ culinary experiences. A country club-style plan allows them to draw on a prepaid account for meals, drinks, guest meals and private catering, CUISINE2GO food, and more. They can also use an in-house app to order food for pickup or delivery and make restaurant reservations. And a robot server will be on-hand in the restaurants to help with bussing tables and delivering food.
“The Mather restaurants and event spaces are truly inspiring us to take our culinary processes, creativity, and service to the next level,” says Thad. “It’s been rewarding for our team to break new ground while we build a cutting-edge food and beverage program for residents.”
The Mather, which opened in March 2024 in Tysons, VA, is a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better that defies expectations of what senior living is supposed to be.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Reston celebrates its 60th anniversary this year and remains a model of a true planned community — one that stresses quality of life and the ability for residents to live, work and play in their own community.
Founder Robert E. Simon had that goal of quality of life and common shared scenic beauty, and those guiding principles remain, even as Reston has changed over the years.
Today, Reston Association and its Board of Directors are the ones tasked with ensuring we have a community that is sustainable, inclusive, and resilient. It is those qualities that make Reston a great place for people to call home. Those qualities are fundamental to maintaining excellent property values and our prized community amenities. So it’s important that all of us within Reston Association take time to cast votes this month in our annual Board of Directors election.
A total of four seats are open in this year’s election, and the candidates for each seat have shared priorities and goals. These individuals are the ones tasked with guiding the policies and procedures for the Association, approving the annual budget and assessment, and helping to ensure Reston remains a unique and welcoming community.
If you value being a part of the Reston community and want to ensure its place in the future, I urge you to take a moment to learn about the candidates and cast your vote in the Board of Directors election. Ballots were mailed to all households within the Association and must be either mailed back or submitted online no later than 5 p.m. on Monday, April 1, 2024. The results of the election will be announced at the 2024 Annual Members’ Meeting on Tuesday, April 9. All RA members are invited to attend the reception and meeting; registration is required.
By Ed Abbott, Chair, Reston Association Elections Committee
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Written by Mina Lucks, Synergy Design & Construction
As a home remodeler, we love creating spaces that adapt to one’s lifestyle and the ever-changing needs of our modern way of living.
In this blog, we explore ways to diversify spaces in your home to help you to transition from work to relaxation and beyond.
Designing Versatile Spaces For Modern Living
Imagine seamlessly moving from a productive work zone to a serene sanctuary in seconds. Or picture hosting a social gathering in your home that effortlessly adapts to accommodate your guests.
Crafting these multifunctional areas starts with understanding your unique needs. After identifying your range of daily activities, you can explore the specific furniture and layouts that make sense for you!
Take this kitchen island, for example.
The island can blend a computer workstation with a meal prep zone, a breakfast bar, a place to socialize, and even sneak in some display shelves underneath. Talk about versatility!
Adaptable Furniture And Layout Ideas For Flexible Living Area
We see crafting a flexible living area as an art form, and luckily, we’ve got a few expert strategies to achieve just that.
The key ideas lie in blending comfort, flow, and, of course, personal flair.
Open-Concept Design
By removing walls, you connect different areas offering a continuous flow of energy and activities.
For instance, this open-concept design harmoniously blends the areas on the entire first floor while maintaining a cohesive look.
Modular Sofas
Rearrange modular sofas to suit any occasion, allowing various seating arrangements, from small and intimate settings to larger gatherings.
Convertible Tables
Accommodate additional guests or offer ample workspace when needed with convertible tables that can expand or contract based on your needs. One of our favs is the Transformer Table!
Versatile Built-in Media Centers
A built-in media center can serve as a focal point and provide storage. With rotating panels or hidden compartments, reveal or conceal entertainment devices to quickly transition from a cozy family movie night to a sophisticated cocktail party.
Vertical Space
Keep floor space open by installing tall cabinets, sliding doors, large bookshelves, or counter units. These vertical elements can be used to display decorative items or act as dividers to create zones within your home.
In this project, we maximized floor space and established zones by utilizing floor-to-ceiling cabinets on the other side of the kitchen fridge wall.
Curate Your Home
So, if you’re after a home that enables flexible living and supports every aspect of your life, we’re here and all ears!
Get in touch with Synergy Design and Construction today, and let’s team up to create a multifunctional space where you can truly thrive!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
What do I do if school doesn’t fit my kid?
That’s the question that so many of the parents and families ask when they’re looking at small independent schools like The Howard Gardner School. There are any number of reasons that their current school might not fit.
- “My son is surviving, but they definitely aren’t thriving”
- “My daughter stopped doing gymnastics, and doesn’t ride horses anymore. She just does schoolwork.”
- “I don’t think the school ever really ‘got’ my kid… they’re just different”
These are quotes pulled from parents looking at HGS this year. Our families are a diverse group from all different backgrounds. Our students are just as varied with all kinds of reasons for being at The Howard Gardner School. The common thread is that school wasn’t working.
When school — as we think of it now — was invented, in the 1800s, it was in answer to the industrial revolution. Desks in rows and columns, classrooms with the same number of students as factories had workers in each shift. Even a curriculum contained by four walls and a textbook, set to a standardized approach for a standardized set of goals.
A few things have changed in the last two hundred years
Public school in the United States was and is a ground-breaking, crucial program with an audacious mandate: Educate every single citizen of the most diverse nation in the history of the world. Public educators are dedicated professionals seeking to do just that — but the mandate is virtually impossible. What works for one student might be antithetical to the needs of another. What makes one kid excited might make another kid anxious. As a result, typical schools seek to do the most that they can for as many students as they can. It’s a laudable and practical approach to a truly difficult circumstance.
But what if your kid doesn’t fit?
The parents, families, and kids who are exploring The Howard Gardner School are obviously considering a new school setting. It’s a wonderful truth that this region has an incredible array of top tier public and private schools. In particular, this area’s set of intentionally small schools is truly impressive. The Washington Small Schools Association and the Virginia Small Schools Association can provide interested families with information and ideas about how to find a school that fits.
In fact, the admissions staff at these small schools will take the time and effort to help each individual student find and access the best possible fit for them. Because each small school can be a different place — with programs, teachers, even campuses that fit different kinds of kids.
At The Howard Gardner School, we work with a very small number of students, in very small classes, designed around experiential programming. For instance, we take thirty-six field trips per year. Our students have multiple overnight travel opportunities each school year. And because of the needs of the teenage brain, we start the school day at 10 a.m. If sitting at a desk for eight hours a day, or slogging through another two hours of homework at night isn’t the right fit for your kid, HGS could help you find a better one. 
Our mission here at The Howard Gardner School is to help bright, creative, non-traditional students use their unique strengths to thrive academically, intellectually, and emotionally.
Please check out our website at www.TheHowardGardnerSchool.org, and call or email to learn more about how to find the best fit for your kid.
There is a place where each young person can find their fit and thrive. The process is a bit like being in a dark room — the hard part isn’t turning on the light, it’s finding the switch.
The Howard Gardner School
Serving bright, creative, non-traditional learners in grades 6-12
Alexandria, VA & Sterling, VA
703-822-9300
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
