The wait is almost over. Soon, you will be able to come home to Monarch and experience the exceptional privacy, serene outdoor spaces, lavish features and finishes, white-glove services, and the most luxurious amenities in Northern Virginia.
Each residence offers abundant natural light, expansive views, chef’s kitchen, and spacious private outdoor living areas, with some featuring direct-entry elevators. From the richly lacquered cabinetry to the floor-to-ceiling windows, Monarch makes a statement at every turn.
This attention to detail extends throughout, from the spectacular grand lobby, state-of-the-art fitness center, inspiring party room, sparkling blue waters of our resort-style pool, and beautiful outdoor terrace.
Let our 24-hour concierge and porter assist with everything from selecting a fine dining restaurant to coordinating a private party. We are the only condominium community in Tysons offering this level of superior service. World-class shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences are only a block away, and with the Silver Line Metro so close, residents can easily connect with everything Washington, D.C. and beyond.
With six homes sold in February alone, don’t miss the opportunity to live at Tysons’ only new high-rise condominium community, as remaining inventory is in high demand.
Schedule your tour and explore our stunning Sales Gallery and newly decorated model. Discover all the luxury and elegance that is Monarch. Sophisticated condominiums priced from $1.24M to $2.4M.
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.
Employee use of computers and workplace internet has become relatively common.
As a result, there are many times when employees get disciplined or terminated for such usage. We generally advise employees to avoid using workplace computers and/or internet connections, even where permitted, wherever possible.
Common Issues for Employees
The most frequent problems that arise for employees in this area involve:
(1) Watching entertainment programs (Neltfix, Hulu, Disney+ etc.)
(2) Excessive social media usage (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok)
(3) Online gaming at work
(4) Watching, sending or receiving sexually explicit or otherwise inappropriate materials
(5) Sending harassing, violent, discriminating or hateful messages on company computers
(6) Using workplace computers or the internet at work to commit any kind of illegal activity, including the piracy of movies, music, games, etc.
(7) Distributing company information outside the company.
There are countless other examples which can violate company usage policies. Each company has their own computer and internet usage policy and it is important for employees to read them.
In our experience, many company computer and internet usage policies are fairly restrictive in writing, but not really enforced unless other employment issues arise. When such issues arise, an employer may have the ability to review an employee’s computer or internet usage on their work devices and attempt to discipline or dismiss an employee if they choose.
Defenses
There can be legal defenses available when an employee is wrongfully terminated from an employer where computer or internet usage is the underlying issue. These defenses would depend on the facts of the underlying incident and the individual company policy. Possible legal defense and/or representation should be discussed with a lawyer.
Contact Us
When an employee faces a disciplinary investigation or action based on alleged computer or internet misuse, it is very important to retain legal counsel familiar with these issues. Our law firm represents employees and 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 biweekly column is sponsored by The Mather in Tysons, Virginia, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better.
Whether you’re a long-time artist or find yourself sitting in front of an easel for the first time, pursuing a creative endeavor can benefit your health.
Research has shown that creative activities (and the pleasure they bring) can reduce artists’ stress and anxiety, increase self-confidence, and boost overall well-being –as well as keep the brain “fit” and stem the onset of dementia.
“Exercising your creativity is an integral part of Aging Well — that’s why we incorporate creative exploration and the arts in so many aspects of our senior living communities,” says Caroline Edasis, director of community engagement for Mather. Mather is the organization that’s bringing The Mather, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better, coming to Tysons, Virginia, in 2024.
This bodes well for future residents of The Mather like Renée Alberts. A lifelong artist whose work has been shown in many juried shows and won multiple awards, Renée is an active member of the McLean Art Society. Her watercolor paintings can be seen in the society’s art exhibits at various locations, including area recreational centers, and in Walker Chapel United Methodist Church when the Art Society schedules exhibits.
Renée says that, today, she is not only retired from her career as a therapist, but also recently “fully retired” from volunteer work, and spends a lot of time painting. While she has tried different media, she is drawn to watercolors because “one is rewarded by the sense of immediacy and freshness and the vivacity of color.” She adds, “With some people, it’s a compulsion. If I see something that stirs emotions, I have to paint it.”
Born in New York City, where she attended the New York High School of Music and Art — the Fame school — and having lived in New England and Europe, Renee settled in Virginia, where she plans to stay. She looks forward to moving into an apartment home in The Mather next year. “For me, the important thing about The Mather is the location,” she says. “It’s convenient to so many things that are important to continuing one’s life — shopping, restaurants, the Metro — and it’s easy to get into town.”
The Mather will offer residents ample opportunities to engage with art and creativity on-site, including Open Art Studios, which are welcoming group settings where participants can work in diverse media alongside their peers. Mather’s signature approach to art appreciation mirrors how contemporary museum practices are evolving. Rather than teaching with lectures from an expert such as a docent, it focuses on inclusive, inquiry-based art-viewing techniques. The Mather has already formed relationships with local arts organizations, and plans to offer inquiry-based art experiences for residents on-site as well as in museums, theaters, galleries, and beyond.
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
As a full service design-build home remodeling company, our focus isn’t limited to the finishes in the space we’re remodeling, we often work with clients who want to make changes on an entire level or throughout their home as part of their renovation plans. One (often overlooked) change that can have a big impact on the look and feel of a home? Interior doors!
Six panel doors are one of the most commonly used interior door styles in houses in this area, but there are other options. If you’re ready for a change, we’re here to help with some design ideas (most are from homes in the local area) so you can get inspired about what’s possible in your space.
Single/1-Panel
For a more contemporary look, many homeowners are opting for 1-panel doors. They are sleek looking, fuss-free and, the best bit, versatile as they work in many different styles of home. They look stunning with chrome or black hardware.
In this contemporary townhome remodel in Reston, we reconfigured the layout of the entrance hall as part of an entire main level renovation. The 6-panel doors on the coat closet did not blend with the contemporary finishes of the rest of the renovated main level. We moved the location of the coat closet to unutilized space behind the front door and used double 1-panel doors (also used on the powder room door — not shown) for an updated look.
This next example shows how double 1-panel doors with frosted glass and square chrome door hardware add a feeling of spa-like luxe to this primary bathroom.
Horizontal Panel Doors
An equally modern choice is doors with two or more (usually) horizontal panels.The neat thing about interior doors nowadays is they now come in all sorts of finishes and differing number of panels, so you have plenty of styles to pick from.
In this basement remodel in Reston, our clients replaced their doors with 3-panel interior doors which were painted in a “Tricorn Black” color. The double doors to the media room are also 3-panel but with glass panels instead of solid for a contemporary look.
See more of this remodel above here.
In this next home remodel in Reston, the homeowners replaced all the interior doors in their mid century home (including replacing bifold closet doors which are commonly found in many bedrooms and hallways) and totally transformed this house. This is a great example of how door styles/colors can be mixed and matched in different rooms but still feel cohesive and blend together.
Pocket Doors
Personally, I love pocket doors. They are the ultimate space saver and you can get really creative with the design and hardware. If you don’t have room for a barn door with a track (or don’t like the look), it might be time to give pocket doors a chance. From frosted glass to solid doors, they are more versatile than you might think. For added design detail, paint them any color you like for a pop of color and design interest.
In this home remodel, a slab pocket door separates the kitchen from the pantry that can be easily pulled across for separation of space.
Pocket doors are not reserved for pantries and laundries/mudrooms. The photo on the left (below) shows how glass pocket doors look equally stunning in an office (this is a design choice I made in my own home). The availability of modern hardware for pocket doors by companies such as Cavilock (as seen on the right) means even the latch can make a design statement!
The downside? It might be difficult to retrofit pocket doors to an existing space depending on the size and width of the walls on either side of the door(s) and what’s behind the walls in terms of electrical wiring or pipes. Placement of electrical light switches will also be impacted as switches cannot be installed on the wall close to the doors because the pocket doors take up the cavity space.
Barn Doors
Replacing existing doors with barn doors takes things up a design notch in your space, especially when paired with a statement door track. Barn doors are most at home in transitional or traditional spaces and add visual interest to the room, but can also fit into a more modern aesthetic if the design is kept simple and paired with a modern track system. Like pocket doors, they are good space savers — especially for pantries. Having too many doors that open in a kitchen can make it feel cramped and hard to navigate, so barn doors are a perfect solution to this problem.
In the example below, our clients removed a closet pantry with a door that opened into the main kitchen, making this a tight corner. The reimagined pantry not only improves storage, the addition of the barn door is much easier for the busy family to use.
The gorgeous door in this home remodel in Reston not only looks stunning, it can be pulled across to give a cozier feel to the family room in the evenings.
This last example shows a modern glass barn door in an office that is a thing of beauty in itself!
Saloon Doors
Yes, we’re putting saloon doors on the list because we think they are a great way to add a playful, yet sophisticated, element to any space. But, these aren’t your Grandma’s saloon doors. In this home remodel in Reston, the existing pantry was a nice space but by adding wooden saloon doors, it gives the whole kitchen a brand new look and feel.
Before we go — a note on hardware
When it comes to hardware, just like kitchen and bathroom cabinet handles, there has been a general move away from all polished brass for door handles and hinges. Satin nickel, chrome and black are now the colors of choice. A simple hardware change isn’t hard to do. In the example below, our clients decided to update their door hardware to black. They liked the look of the existing style, so they didn’t switch that out, but the new black handles fit better with their newly remodeled space.
If you’re ready to rethink your home, we’re here to help! We’ve been leading the way in home remodeling in Reston since 2008. Ready to get started? Find out more about us here.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
It’s time for you to experience Pierce: a multi-award-winning luxury condominium building in Rosslyn, with residences priced from the mid $900s to $2.7M.
Pierce will be hosting a Champagne Open House Event on Saturday, March 11, from 12-4 p.m. (kindly RSVP to [email protected]).
Sip some bubbly and enjoy a tour of our award-winning models and world-class amenities. Pierce offers expansive floor plans with generous private balconies and premier interior finishes, including 2-bedroom and den residences featuring almost 2,000 sq. ft. of living space, and parking is included.
Discover the height of sophisticated condominium living as you explore our fabulous 26th floor Social Room and the 27th floor rooftop terrace. Marvel at our spectacular views and enviable location for those who desire to live at the intersection of urban culture and Northern Virginia style.
Experience home as never before when you live at Pierce: Virginia’s finest condominium residence and a one-of-a-kind opportunity. Learn more at PierceVa.com.
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.
Starting March 6 through March 12!
Here is the restaurant line-up, so you can plan a week of NO at-home meal prep and experience some of the best eats in the City of Fairfax:
- Audacious Ale Work
- Big Buns
- Baku Delicious
- Bellissimo Resturant
- Ben Gongs Tea
- Bollywood Bistro
- Capital Ale House
- Coyote Grille
- Curry Mantra
- Dolce Vita Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar
- Drapers
- Earp’s Ordinary
- El Pollo Rico
- Hamrock’s Restaurant
- Jas & Fam Caribbean Flavor
- Kim’s Kitchen & Bar
- Marumen Ramen Shop
- Meokja Meokja
- Merkado Mexican Grill & Bar
- ONE Bar & Grill
- Ornery Beer Company Public House
- PJ Skidoos
- Patriots Pub & Grill
- Roots Natural Kitchen
- Slice of MatchBox
- The Auld Shebeen
- The Wine House
- ViVi bubble tea
As you can see from the above list, there is honestly something yummy for everyone from a date night to family meals.
Let us know which ones you are planning to try!
Make sure you use #TakeaBiteofFairfax.
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 Brendan C. Stautberg, Esq.,
Financial issues are a frequent reason security clearance applicants run into problems during the adjudication process. That may not be surprising: it makes sense that the government would care about your financial status — including your record of paying off debts, meeting other obligations, and living within your means — because of how those aspects of your life and conduct reflect your trustworthiness and reliability.
And it is not unusual for Americans to have various debts, whether current or resolved, and sometimes people fall behind on their payments for whatever reason. It happens; people can and do fall on hard times for reasons entirely outside their control. Likewise, sometimes people make bad financial decisions that it can take significant time and effort to recover from.
Luckily, financial issues are not necessarily the end of the road when it comes to obtaining a security clearance. Many people are granted clearances despite outstanding debts and other problems. However, to get to there, it is crucial to understand how to address financial concerns in a way that will satisfy clearance adjudicators.
Financial Issues in the Security Clearance Context
When you first apply for a security clearance, you are faced with a new level of scrutiny, including towards your finances. But the nuances of this scrutiny, although very important, can be difficult to understand at first. For example, again, it is hardly the case that you cannot be granted a security clearance if you have any outstanding debt. On the opposite end of the spectrum, though, you can also be denied a clearance even if you have completely resolved past financial issues if other concerns about your financial responsibility remain.
Therefore, it is important to understand what clearance adjudicators are looking for when they allege a finance-related security concern. This topic is also a great example of why it is important to be represented by an experienced attorney in order to maximize your chances of successfully appealing an unfavorable clearance decision.
Depending on the federal agency involved, whether the applicant is employed by a contractor, and what stage the process is in, security clearance adjudications may be processed within the Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals (DOHA), the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA), or within a sponsoring agency’s own security office. Regardless of which agency or office is adjudicating your case, the clearance adjudicators use standards from a document called Security Executive Agent Directive 4 (SEAD 4), which is issued by the Director of National Intelligence. The financial component of SEAD 4’s National Security Adjudicative Guidelines is Guideline F: Financial Issues.
Understanding and Responding to a Guideline F Concern
While Guideline F itself provides further details on what types of conduct can give rise to a financially based security concern, the main takeaway from Guideline F is twofold: first, financial irresponsibility demonstrates a lack of good judgment, self-control, reliability, and similar traits deemed important to safeguarding classified information, in addition to irresponsibility potentially reflecting other problems such as substance abuse.
Second, financial overextension could lead someone to engage in illegal activity to make ends meet, and it could also open them up to blackmail. As a result, the Guideline F calculus assesses both your own responsibility and actions as well as whether your financial situation increases your risk of other problems.
However, a frequent pitfall in Guideline F cases is that the applicant will focus too much on their current financial situation and not on the other aspects of their financial history. It is easy to mistakenly assume that as long as you demonstrate to the adjudicators that you have paid off your debts or resolved whatever other issues there may be, you are in the clear. Unfortunately, that by itself is often not enough.
Security adjudicators are not just looking at your current financial picture, but also at two other aspects of whatever issues they may allege: first, how you got into the situation in question, and second, what you have done to deal with it. For example, if you have a charged-off debt in your credit report, then even if you have since paid the debt in full or otherwise resolved it, adjudicators will want to know details about why the debt was charged off in the first place, and they will also want to know why you didn’t make payments for whatever period of time may be the case.
Even if you did make payments or otherwise attempt to resolve the problem, adjudicators will want to see hard evidence of your payments or other efforts — they will not just take your word for it, and the burden is on you as the applicant to provide sufficient evidence. However, if you can provide good explanations about your good-faith efforts to address any financial issues to the best of your ability, as well as adequately explaining the circumstances that led to the problem in the first place, then your chance of sufficiently mitigating a Guideline F security concern is much greater.
Contact Us
Our firm handles many security clearance cases, including Guideline F matters, for federal and federal contractor employees. If you are a security clearance holder or applicant in need of representation, 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 and Twitter.
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.
Many people see their health as something to work on, through goal setting, regular workouts, and diet.
But research shows that “down time” can be very effective at supporting our health and well-being as well. “Many leisure activities provide opportunities to socialize, learn, be active, and carry out your life’s purpose — each of which has been proven to support health and well-being,” explains Cate O’Brien, PhD, the VP and Director for Mather Institute.
Mather Institute has compiled findings from a variety of sources to provide some guidelines on this. The Institute is the research area of Mather, the parent organization to The Mather, a Life Plan Community coming to Tysons.
Here are eight ways to spend your free time that can provide health benefits:
- Make Music: Learning to play an instrument challenges your brain and may improve brain function — and playing an instrument is associated with better cognitive and brain health and psychological and physical well-being.
- Be Social: Positive, supportive relationships play an important role in well-being. Social support can improve mood, reduce stress, and improve immune function. Spend time with family, friends, or neighbors. Take advantage of opportunities to meet new people and cultivate supportive relationships. Consider joining a group, taking a class, or volunteering to double up on positive effects.
- Embrace Your Spiritual Side: Spirituality and religiosity are both linked to good health for a variety of reasons. Persons who are spiritual or religious often have a strong sense of purpose, which is associated with a reduced risk of many diseases. Meditation and prayer can help regulate emotions and in turn, contribute to positive physical functions such as healthy blood pressure.
- Volunteer for a Good Cause: It’s not only good for others; it’s good for your health. Volunteering can promote a strong sense of purpose, which is linked to improved coping with stress, positive health behaviors, and even a longer life. Find a cause that is meaningful to you and dedicate some time to it — it doesn’t have to be a lot for you to reap the health benefits.
- Get Physical: You already know that physical activity is good for you. Physically active people tend to enjoy a reduced risk of disease and functional limitations, along with a boost to their mental health and brain health. Find an activity you like and move for 30 minutes or more most days. Need extra motivation? Partnering with a friend can help you stay on track.
- Join a Group that participates in an activity you enjoy. Group activities seem to provide social benefits over and above those from participating in other social activities. Activities such as singing with a choir or riding with a cycling club can provide a boost to psychological well-being, as well as mental, physical, and cognitive health.
- Learn Something New: Learning, whether informal, self-directed, or formal, can improve well-being. Learning a new, mentally challenging skill may help to keep your brain healthy. Consider studying a language, taking dance lessons, learning to quilt, taking up photography, or learning to play an instrument.
- Let Purpose and Passion Be Your Guide: Immerse yourself in activities you feel passionate about. First, a strong sense that your activities and goals are purposeful, important, and meaningful — whether it is raising your grandchildren, volunteering to improve the environment, or continuing your education — can improve health and longevity. In addition, simply enjoying an activity keeps you feeling good, helps you stay engaged, and can provide opportunities for growth and social connection.
Choose any of these enticing options for spending your free time, and know that research has proven it is time well spent.
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
On the edge of Vienna, The Providence shines with nurturing and innovative boutique-style senior living surrounded by renowned arts and cultural venues and experiences.
Combining the elegance of a luxury rental community, the extravagance of a best-in-class hospitality experience, and just the right amount of individualized care, everything at The Providence is tailored to help our residents thrive.
For a limited time, lease a one-bedroom Assisted Living apartment for the price of a studio when you move in by March 31, 2023 (certain conditions apply — see sales director for details). Don’t miss this opportunity to get more for less.
Your monthly rental fee includes:
Spacious, light-filled one-bedroom apartments
- Open kitchenette with granite countertops
- Sizable living room
- Large bathrooms with walk-in showers
- Advanced technology for safety and convenience
Also included:
- All-day dining in any of our restaurants
- On-site physician specialists
- Integrated physical, occupational, and speech therapy program
- 24-hour concierge
- Individualized care program
- 24/7 licensed care staff
- Medication management
- State-of-the-art fitness center
- Engaging and inspiring events and activities
- Transportation services
- Covered parking
- All utilities and Wi-Fi
- Housekeeping and laundry
- Access to on-site day spa and salon
The Providence delivers a quality of life that is exciting, comforting, and exceptional.
Now welcoming new residents. To learn more, visit ProvidenceFairfax.com or call (571) 550-9404.
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.
Are you looking for a fine dining experience with exceptional service and remarkable food?
If so, you must try Davio’s, a Northern Italian Steakhouse in Reston Station.
This video will showcase our experience and all the awesomeness.
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 sponsored column is written by the team at Arrowine & Cheese (4508 Cherry Hill Road in Arlington). Sign up for the email newsletter and receive exclusive discounts and offers. Experience Arrowine’s Tastings & Events. Have a question? Email [email protected].
Hello my friends,
Please excuse my absence during the holiday season. I’m back, well sort of, I’m in Paris concluding my annual “French Death March.” Well, it was annually up until three years ago. Now I can hear you all saying, “Oh that’s rough! Can I carry your bags?” It is usually the comment that follows.
I flew via Amsterdam to Montpellier, France. The Schipol airport is enormous. Luckily I had an eight-hour layover, so there was no need to rush. But, despite the enormity of the place, you can’t find a cup of coffee at 6 a.m. anywhere. So I had to settle for a Heineken, and I thought the Dutch were “coffee people.” So after cooling my heels for eight hours desperately trying not to fall asleep, at the shop-worn bar, in my “get the hell out of my Country Termial,” I was raring to go, albeit exhausted. No glamour here, folks.
Montpellier has been the home to Millésime Bio since 1991, and you guessed it is all about organic wine. It is the place to meet, taste and visit with winemakers who work organically, as most of mine do.
It was great to see old friends and have the opportunity to ferret out some “new and interesting” players. The fair is only two days long, and there are also several “off” tastings (located in different venues) before and during the fair. Folks who can’t afford or choose not to participate in the fair seize the opportunity to steal attention while everyone is in town. I stick to my agenda to save precious time.
That was a wise move, and I found some fabulous new winemakers. On the first day, I potentially bagged five. But it’s more challenging than it sounds. You must taste a lot of uninspired, sometimes technically flawed crap to find a winner. But I am always on point and excel at sizing up a winner with just a glance.
I headed to Paris to embark on Phase 2 in Angers, the Salon des Vins de Loire. So why go back to Paris? Driving the 7-plus hours is the only “direct” way to Angers from Montpellier, and the trains take just as long, especially when you are schlepping 2 1/2 weeks’ worth of luggage.
The Loire Salon is my sentimental favorite. The Salon has shrunk over the years. What was once three large halls is now one. And that includes the Bio-Dynamic growers certified by the Federation Demeter International. Biodynamics viticulture goes back to ancient earth healing techniques, with all the processes performed in conjunction with the lunar calendar. So let’s say organic “on steroids.” That was the best I could come up with, but you get the idea.
Like Millésime Bio, there are also “off” tastings. The Salon St. Jean at the Greniers St. Jean is an excellent tasting, started over twenty years ago by winemaker Nicolas Joly, who wrote “the book” on Biodynamics. Based on the works of Rudolph Steiner in 1924, Joly is responsible for bringing Biodynamic practices to the forefront of viticulture, changing the course of winemaking and wine worldwide.
And there is the infamous Dive Boutteille Natural Wine held in Saumur at the Caves Ackermann, and I mean caves. I pass on that one. The caves are cold, dank, and dark. It is impossible to taste well under those conditions. There are good wines with many fine growers, but no thanks.
Wine Paris and Vinexpo start on Monday and run till Wednesday. So I’m here in Paris getting myself ready. Bring it on!
Cheers,
Doug Rosen
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
An increasing number of newborns are left irreversibly disabled, or worse, due to avoidable birth problems caused by errors in medical care during and after birth. According to studies, the infant mortality rate in South Africa is around 27.8 deaths per 1,000 live births. The data on newborn death shows that medical negligence is on the rise in South Africa, which is cause for alarm.
“When parents visit the hospital with their infants, they expect doctors to diagnose and treat them with due care and attention,” says medical malpractice attorney Russell J. Berkowitz. Sadly, pediatricians, nurses, and medical personnel make mistakes and these errors can cause serious injury to infants. Additionally, these mistakes may lead to medical malpractice claims against pediatricians.
The Most Common Cases Constituting Pediatric Medical Malpractice In South Africa
Pediatric malpractice can cause child health to deteriorate in many ways. However, there are other more common instances of medical negligence, particularly when it comes to misdiagnosing illnesses. Some of them include:
#1. Meningitis
Meningitis is the most common ailment associated with pediatric malpractice. According to research, meningitis occurs in 40 per 100,000 cases, which is ten times the rate in the overall population.
Meningitis can be challenging to diagnose and treat in children since the symptoms are non specific and resemble flu symptoms. As a result, the harm to a newborn is typically progressive. In some cases, it can lead to irreversible damages if a medical expert does not appropriately diagnose the condition of a child promptly.
#2. Appendicitis
Appendicitis, a prevalent medical emergency among children in South Africa, is another common pediatric condition. According to a survey, appendicitis misdiagnosis is between 28 and 57 percent of children from two to twelve years of age in South Africa.
People may mistake Appendicitis symptoms for urinary tract infections or pelvic inflammatory disease. As a result, there are many initial misdiagnoses of newborn appendicitis cases.
Even after a correct diagnosis, the condition may have advanced to the extent that treating it, like meningitis, becomes far more challenging. The consequences of not having the appendix surgically removed promptly can be lethal.
#3. Oxygen Deprivation and Damage to the Nerves
According to studies, birth asphyxia, commonly referred to as oxygen deprivation, is the top cause of injuries in South African newborns. Premature placental detachment, commonly due to an entangled umbilical cord around the neck, causes oxygen deprivation. In South Africa, the rate of newborn brain injuries caused by oxygen deprivation varies between 8.7 and 15.2 per 1000 births.
Another common injury in newborns is obstetric brachial plexopathy. Obstetric brachial plexopathy occurs when the head of a baby is squeezed too tightly during birth, damaging the nerves near the base of the neck. Damage can also occur in newborn arms or wrists, thus, leading to Brachial palsy, Erb palsy, or Klumpke palsy.
#4. Medication Prescription
Medication prescription errors are also a prevalent cause of pediatric malpractice. In line with research, more than five percent of medical malpractice in the treatment of children is due to medication errors.
Medication errors can have even life-threatening consequences for a child. According to statistics, doctors are to blame 69 percent of the time.
What to Do If Your Child Suffer Any Medical Negligence
If your child sustains an injury due to medical malpractice, you have to consult an experienced pediatric negligence attorney as soon as possible. When it comes to receiving reliable healthcare, you have to defend the rights of your child. If medical personnel are to blame for your child’s injury, they must be held accountable.
It is about seeking compensation for child suffering and ensuring that similar things do not happen again. A victorious pediatric malpractice lawsuit can impose punitive sanctions against a medical staff member found guilty of negligence, which can act as a deterrent.
Not only does the medical malpractice claim serve as a deterrent to the doctor in question, but to all medical professionals who learn of it. In general, people expect pediatricians, pediatric nurses, and any other medical personnel involved in the care of children to stay watchful. Unfortunately, there are instances when the only way to keep children safe is to ensure they are too afraid to make a mistake in the future.
Filing a Medical Malpractice Claim For Minor
It is common for families whose child sustains an injury or dies due to medical malpractice to decide to file a compensation claim. The claim might be filed against the medical practice or the state, depending on where the injuries happened. According to South African legislation, the filing of medical malpractice claims must be within three years after the injury date.
However, in unusual situations, this time limit can vary. For example, if the injury sustained develops over time. However, the safest and recommended approach is to take action within three years. If the claim is against a state or provincial hospital, the institution notification must be in writing within six months of the incident.
In instances where a child sustains an injury, and no parent or guardian has filed a claim on their behalf, the Prescription Act comes into play. The Prescription Act allows for a one-year delay in the prescription term once the injured child has reached the age of 18. Furthermore, to win a medical malpractice lawsuit, there must be proof of negligence.
Possible Outcomes After Filing a Medical Malpractice Claim
After filing a pediatric medical malpractice lawsuit against the liable parties, the victim’s family expects to get compensation for damages. The parents may be entitled to reclaim any treatment costs depending on the severity of the injury. Also, they may get compensation for their child’s pain and suffering and compensation for projected future loss of income or earning potential.
If a child passes away due to pediatric medical malpractice, any claim may be restricted to burial costs and general damages for pain and suffering suffered by the parents.
Furthermore, one or both parents may experience a diagnosable psychological injury such as difficulty in grief, which could affect their capacity to work. Parents can file a claim for lost earnings or earning potential if this is the case.
Final Thought
Medical providers should always be careful when treating children as it will not only prevent avoidable injuries but will help them avoid medical malpractice lawsuits. If your child sustains an injury due to negligence by an obstetrician, nurse, pediatrician, orthopedic surgeon, or other medical providers, your child may be entitled to compensation. However, you should consult a knowledgeable medical malpractice attorney before filing a lawsuit against the responsible parties.
Whether you are ready to move-in now or would prefer to personalize a new home from the ground up, Brookfield Residential is here to help make owning a brand new home that fits the needs of your family a reality.
At Snowden Bridge located near Winchester, you can find beautiful single-family and townhome designs and take advantage of Brookfield Residential’s Mix and Match Savings opportunity, which provides flexible financing options that make owning a new home even more affordable.
A New Home on Your Terms
You will save big on spacious single-family homes and low-maintenance townhomes at Snowden Bridge with thousands in free* options and upgrades. Brookfield Residential’s Mix and Match Savings also lets you select an additional financing incentive that fits your unique financial needs.
The first option provides buydown financing with below-market mortgage rates. Rates start from 4.99%* in year one of your mortgage, 5.99%* in year two and 6.99%* with the ability refinance for free* in year three.
The second option lets you keep more cash on hand with paid closing cost assistance.* This reduces out-of-pocket costs at the purchase of the home, plus this option allows for free refinancing* at any time within the first three years of the loan.
No matter what you choose, you’ll save thousands when you purchase at Snowden Bridge!
*Terms and conditions apply and are subject to change without notice.
Why Buy at Snowden Bridge?
The Shenandoah Valley is one of the most beautiful areas to live in Virginia. With stunning geography framed by the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians, the Potomac River and the James River, you’ll enjoy a stunning backdrop year round. Plus with outstanding dining, drinking and shopping options, the Shenandoah truly has something for everyone.
Life at Snowden Bridge is built on beauty, style, and endless days filled with fun. Frederick County’s premier master-planned community features traditional and main-level living single-family homes from the $400’s and 3-level garage townhomes from the $300’s. Quick move-in opportunities are available. Snowden Bridge also offers exceptional amenities, including:
- A neighborhood elementary school and daycare center
- A swimming pool, dog park and picnic pavilion
- Playgrounds and scenic walking trails
- Easy access to major commuter routes
- An ideal location with downtown Winchester and the retail center Rutherford Crossing in close proximity
To learn more about Snowden Bridge and the incredible Brookfield Residential Mix and Match Savings opportunity, visit BrookfieldOffers.com.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
By Nicola Caul Shelley, Synergy Design & Construction
It seems like no time at all since we took a leisurely stroll admiring the calming and soothing colors of last year’s color trends! This year, the biggest names in the paint industry are ready to move things forward and are looking optimistically to the future with new colors that are lush, gorgeous and versatile.
As a full service home remodeling company that focuses on design-thoughtful interior remodels, Synergy doesn’t provide painting as a standalone service. However, we believe painting should be included as part of every home remodel and our Interior Designers will even help you pick out the perfect palette for your space! Not every home remodeler or general contractor includes painting in their scope of services, so be sure to ask the question before you sign a home remodeling contract.
With that said, time to get inspired and take a look at the top color picks by some of the biggest names in the painting industry.
Benjamin Moore
Benjamin Moore is our go-to paint company when it comes to our home remodels. This year, they’ve named Raspberry Blush (2008-30) as their color of the year. Providing “Joie de Vivre”, it is described as “a vivacious shade of color tinged with pink, this electric hue is the definition of charismatic color.”
One of the most frequently asked questions we get from clients is how to best use color without overdoing it and overpowering the space. This depends on a lot of factors (including your personal design aesthetic when it comes to use of color), but it is possible to paint a room all in the same color, or simply use it as an accent. Benjamin Moore provides some helpful suggestions for using this paint color to maximum effect in different ways:
- Bring a blushed update to the deep red dining room with Raspberry Blush walls and Onyx furnishings.
- Create a lively living room with walls and wainscoting.
- Add a pop of color to your home with a powder room or ensuite painted in this rich coral.
Farrow & Ball
Based in England, Farrow & Ball have long held a reputation for quality paint and interesting colors (or should we say, ‘colours’) and they are also high on our list of favorites when it comes to paint names!
This year, they introduced 11 new colors to their collection of high-performance, low-VOC, water based paints. According to Farrow & Ball they are, “inspired by moments of joy, comfort and refreshment to bring delight to your decorating. The first additions to our much-loved colour card in four years, these versatile new shades range from a lively, flame red to a delicate pink. With our signature richness, depth and extraordinary response to light, each one is unmistakably Farrow & Ball.”
This is a big deal for Farrow & Ball who haven’t introduced any new colors for four years. They are retiring 11 of their older colors to make way for these new ones, so if you’ve used their paint in your home in recent years, it might be a good time to look into which colors are being discontinued in case you need a touch up.
“Our relationship with our home has changed so much over the last few years, it felt like the perfect time to introduce these new colours,” said Joa Studholme, color curator for Farrow & Ball, in a press release. “We all feel ready to show off our spaces and personal style.”
Say hello to the new Farrow & Ball colors:
- Stirabout
- Eddy
- Tailor Tack
- Templeton Pink
- Bamboozle
- Hopper Head
- Selvedge
- Kittiwake
- Wine Dark
- Whirlybird
- Beverly
Sherwin-Williams
“Minimal”, “calming” and “intriguing”, Sherwin-Williams has chosen Redend Point (SW 9081) as their color of the year. Inspired by connection and care, it is described as a color of “warmth” by the company which, “embraces a spirit of connection with the world around us with this soulful-yet-subtle hue.” Well, I’m sold!
Redend Point (SW 9081). Photo courtesy Sherwin-Williams
BEHR®
Fans of a more neutral color palette rejoice! BEHR® has selected Blank Canvas (DC-003) as their color of the year. According to BEHR® it, “sets the tone for relaxation” and allows homeowners to “renew every room of your home.” Erika Woelfel, Behr’s vice president of color and creative services, said, “White is the perfect color for starting fresh. It’s restorative.”
It is a modern and bright take on an off-white with undertones of brown and gray that make it a true neutral shade. It doesn’t contain yellow so it can easily be paired with other neutrals without looking ‘tired’. This is also a completely new shade from BEHR® as part of a brand new Designer Collection.
Glidden
Glidden describes their top pick Vining Ivy as a “bluish-greenish-something-in-betweenish” color that “serves up versatile vibes, making it an on-trend addition to any room. No matter if you think it looks more blue or more green, either way, it’s a vibe.” The perfect color for people who can’t decide between blue or green, this one might end up solving a lot of problems when deciding which color to get in the paint aisle!
This color is also another one that puts emphasis on the restorative side of life. According to Ashley McCollum, Glidden color expert, “The overarching theme for 2023 is about reflection on what matters most to us, our relationship with the planet, and how we want to engage with others. Its versatility takes the guesswork out of design, leaving consumers with more time to indulge in the things that matter most to them.”
The color also works well on an accent wall, a front door and can even work in small spaces. Per McCollum, “even the most modest spaces can benefit from the teal treatment. For those short on square footage but big on style, we recommend using this rich hue as a bold contrast to a neutral palette, making a petite room feel plush.”
Not ready for a larger scale home remodel but thinking it’s time to freshen up your home with some new paint? Download our free Guide to Paint Finishes to get you started here!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
By Nicola Caul Shelley, Synergy Design & Construction
I was recently talking to an out-of-town friend who is considering a home remodel. Although her home was built in the early 1970s, her personal aesthetic leans contemporary and she was thinking of a modern makeover for her kitchen.
We were discussing kitchen design and I off-handedly asked, “What style of cabinet doors are you thinking about?” It wasn’t a trick question but, as it turns out, it wasn’t something she’d given much thought. I realized after polling others this is a topic many people don’t really think about or pay much attention to until it comes time to pick them out — often well into the remodeling process when it’s either too overwhelming to research and/or the remodeler they are working with has limited cabinet options.
Depending on the home remodeling company or general contractor you use for your kitchen remodel, your choice of cabinetry may be very broad — or very narrow! At Synergy, we have a number of different cabinetry companies we work with and our preferred partners provide different lines of cabinets at different price points and infinite choices of color and style! We were once even able to match a kitchen cabinet color to a client’s favorite purse. With other general contractors or smaller companies, you might be limited to only three or four door styles and limited color choices. It’s worth asking the question before you sign on the dotted line to ensure you understand what your options are and if it’s the right fit for you.
As kitchen cabinetry will be one of the biggest line items in your renovation budget and can have a big impact on the design appeal of your home, it’s important you get what you want. With that said, here’s a quick guide of kitchen cabinets so you can make the perfect choice for your kitchen remodel.
Don’t know the difference between a home remodeling design build company and a general contractor? Then read this!
Frameless vs. Faceframe Cabinets
Let’s start with the basics: frameless or faceframe cabinets. With frameless cabinets, there is no frame around the cabinet box and the cabinet doors attach directly to the inside of the box. Although there are benefits such as ease of access and storage space, the main appeal is the seamless and more modern look frameless cabinets provide, due to their tiny ‘reveals’ (the space showing around the cabinet doors and drawer heads).
Faceframe cabinets have a frame that covers the edge of the cabinet box and the door hinges attach to the frame itself. Faceframe cabinets tend to be more adaptable to all overlay types (i.e. the way the cabinet frame shows around the doors and drawer heads) and sometimes have the added benefit of being more budget-friendly. However, this is highly dependent on the type of overlay you select (read more below).
There is no right or wrong choice and it’s all down to personal preference. The drawing below shows the difference between frameless and faceframe cabinets.
Frameless cabinets and a contemporary design. Photo courtesy Synergy Design & Construction. See more of this remodel here.
There are three different types of cabinet overlays: partial overlay, full overlay and inset. With more traditional partial overlay faceframe cabinets, you see a lot of the frame of the cabinet box. However, newer and more modern faceframe cabinets often have ‘full overlay’ doors. With new finishes and production methods, it’s not always easy to tell the difference between frameless and faceframe cabinets once installed, as seen in the examples below. Full overlay faceframe cabinets, however, are not the same as frameless cabinets. Full overlay cabinets still show approximately a ¼ inch reveal of the frame around the doors and drawers, while frameless cabinets show almost zero frame reveal.
Next comes inset doors. With inset cabinetry, the doors are not sitting in front of the faceframe of the cabinet, but rather they are sitting right inside (‘flush’ with) the frame — the entire frame of the cabinet between all the doors and drawers is exposed for a classic, artisan look. To add further detail and uniqueness to inset cabinets, they are sometimes available with decorative exposed hinges in different finishes. As a general rule of thumb, inset doors will be more expensive.
Now that you’ve made your decision on frameless or faceframe cabinets, let’s take a look at the most popular door styles.
The go-to Shaker
Shaker cabinet doors are still the go-to choice for many. Their clean lines and fuss-free look mean they are still a popular choice that stands the test of design time. Shaker cabinets fit beautifully with a more transitional design — i.e. design that blends traditional and modern design. Lately, there is a general move away from all white shaker kitchen cabinets. It started with lightly color contrasted islands, but now blue, green and wood elements are all equally at home.
Not sure what “transitional kitchen design” means? Read this!
Slab fronted cabinets
When it comes to a more contemporary look, slab-fronted cabinets are the way to go. Cabinets with slab doors are usually frameless for an ultra-sleek look. They are versatile and can be handle/pull free for an extra modern look but also work with handles and pulls. As with shaker door cabinets, slab-fronted cabinet colors can also be mixed to give contrast.
Mix n’ match
There is no rule about having to use one cabinet door style in your kitchen design. If you like the look of shaker but want a modern twist, it is possible to mix and match with slab-fronts. The key is to do all cabinet doors in one style and all drawers in another. In the examples below, a shaker style was used for cabinet doors, but with slab drawers for a more contemporary look.
Ready to work with a local home remodeling company who provides a customized kitchen design and interior designers who help you with all the decisions? Our consultations are FREE and there is never any obligation. Learn more about us!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
