This biweekly column is sponsored by The Mather in Tysons, Virginia, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better.

Finding a creative outlet that suits you, and then devoting time and thought to that outlet, has wonderful effects on your mood, your brain, and your overall well-being. “Creativity doesn’t have to be painting or sculpting; you can be creative in starting or running a business or nonprofit,” says author Sara Fitzgerald. “For me, I spend a lot of time writing, and I find it very satisfying.”

Sara is a multitalented writer who has applied her talents to crafting everything from satirical song lyrics to nuanced biographies. A resident of northern Virginia for nearly 50 years, she is preparing to move to The Mather, a Life Plan Community for those 62 and better, in Tysons in early 2024.

Early in her career, Sara was an editor and new media developer for The Washington Post, then held  positions focused on internet policy making and promoting technology in education. While she continued to write during those years (including publishing two romance novels), she says retirement offers the time and concentration she needs to devote herself to it.

“There’s something about the way writing stimulates my mind — there’s a kind of high,” says Sara. Since retirement, she’s been focused on historical fiction and biographies of little-known women. She’s in the process of publishing a biography of Emily Hale, the secret love of poet T.S. Eliot. (You can browse all her published works on her website at sarafitzgerald.com.)

However, Sara’s writing isn’t limited to books: “I enjoy rhyming lyrics — I’ve written them for the Hexagon Club’s annual satirical revue in D.C. for years,” she says.

And, after taking a brief playwriting class at the Creative Cauldron theater in Falls Church, she wrote a script for a very personal cabaret-style show, Comfort Songs, which was performed in July 2023 at the Creative Cauldron. She explains, “During the early days of the pandemic, I was inspired by Yo-Yo Ma, who put out a call for ‘songs of comfort’ and who posted videos of himself playing the cello. I began posting my own videos; I used my mobile phone to record daily videos of myself playing the piano — one song a day for nearly 90 days.” In her show, Sara described the project and the background of the songs  she selected, and “some talented friends” performed about 15 of them. “I wanted it to be a healing experience; I think it worked well,” she says.

Sara is looking forward to her next chapter at The Mather. “What’s reassuring to me about my decision to move to The Mather was that nine or ten households of my friends have also decided to move there,” she says. “I then learned about friends of friends moving there — including the two neighbors on either side of my future apartment home!”

While she hopes to enjoy more time to regularly practice piano in her apartment home at The Mather as she admires the views from floor-to-ceiling windows, Sara is simultaneously excited about the community’s amenities, including an indoor pool, and looks forward to meeting new people. “I figure I’ll be able to sit down with any of my neighbors and find interesting people whom I would like to know,” she says.

The Mather, projected to open in Tysons, VA, in early 2024 for those 62 and better, is a forward-thinking Life Plan Community that defies expectations of what senior living is supposed to be.

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

Written by Mina Lucks, Synergy Design & Construction

A recent client with an upscale townhome was ready to make changes to their nearly 20-year-old home. Dark-cherry finishes and a kitchen layout had started to date, and they had big ideas to improve other areas of the home. The basement entertainment area, a couple hall baths and all new flooring throughout were on the wish list. 

Here’s an inside look into how we harmoniously transformed these spaces to brighten the townhouse just in time for the holidays!

Transform Tradition into Trend

The first step of the kitchen transformation was the removal of several non-load-bearing columns and half-walls that enclosed the space. This eliminated barriers with adjacent rooms, allowed more light in, and shed the kitchen’s overly traditional aesthetic.

Hello, open concept! 

The revamped kitchen features expansive custom cabinetry that exudes a bright and airy feeling, optimizing every inch of the footprint to increase storage and countertop space. Offering seating for at least four, a large island takes center stage while anchoring and defining the room. 

Complemented by white oak accents (including a hanging ladder), the kitchen offers warm and natural textures, establishing a seamless connection with the furnishings in the surrounding dining and living rooms. 

To complete the kitchen transformation, lighter-colored hardwood flooring graces the entire main level, creating a cohesive look that pulls all the elements together. 

Bringing up the Basement

Just one level below the kitchen remodel, we brought the basement into the project. Several updates were made, including revamping an existing small full bath and adding a built-in bar area and faux beams to the tray ceiling. 

A previously unused corner became a striking entertaining focal point with bar cabinetry, floating shelves, and a full-sized wine refrigerator. The most eye-catching feature, a full-height natural stone backsplash, brings a touch of luxury and personality to the space. 

On the opposite side of the room, we removed the traditional white trim around the existing fireplace and added stone stacked to the ceiling with an eye-popping custom wood mantle creating an additional architectural feature and a perfect spot to stay cozy in the winter months.

A Splash of Bath 

Last, but not least, an unrenovated hall bath on the upper floor received a facelift with all new vanity and plumbing fixtures which bring pops of color and personality to the room — making it a perfect teen’s retreat.

Whether it’s a New Year’s resolution or a well-deserved holiday gift to yourself, consider this story your inspiration to make that home project you’ve been dreaming of a reality!

Get in touch with us today to start the conversation!

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney Associates. Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479.

Embarking on the holiday season demands more than just festive cheer — it calls for a dash of magic in our style survival. Join me as we meet up with sometimes referred to the “Style Therapist” by her clients, Katie with Style by Valentine at the amazing Tyson’s Corner Nordstrom.

As Katie shares insight on navigating the holiday chaos in style. As we dive into the festivities, Nordstrom emerges as our trusted companion, offering a seamless style experience with budget convenience. As women from all walks of life face the thieves of season from time constraints, packed schedules, family stress, and the inevitable lack of sleep, which could result in dark circles, frumpiness, and a general sense of discomfort that hinders us from fully enjoying the season’s moments.

Fear not, as our gift to you is a Style Survival Guide Clip — a toolkit of several practical strategies applicable to all, regardless of budget, size, age, or style preferences.

Tailored insights for moms, families, and general professionals ensure everyone can embrace the holiday spirit and look great doing so. From avoiding winging it to cleverly remixing your wardrobe with a single statement piece, strategically using color, texture, and accessories, to embracing cozy monochromes and metallics for that chic festive vibe — we’ve got you covered.

Katie definitely adds a few final tips on value, quality, and staying true to yourself, this video encourages a thoughtful and authentic approach to holiday style.

Thank you so much for tuning in to our style survival video! I hope these tips bring a touch of magic to your holiday season. As you navigate the festivities, may your days be filled with warmth, joy, and the creation of beautiful memories.

Wishing you an amazing Christmas season where every moment is wrapped in happiness. Here’s to embracing the magic of the holidays and making memories that will last a lifetime.

Merry Christmas!

Collaboration with Style By Valentine
Stylebyvalentine.com
[email protected]

Explore Fairfax with Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney.

Sharmane Medaris | Live Fairfax | www.soldbysharmane.com | [email protected] | @soldbysharmane | 813-504-4479 | 374 Maple Avenue Suite 202, Vienna, VA 22180

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

This is a sponsored column by attorneys John Berry and Kimberly Berry of Berry & Berry, PLLC, an employment and labor law firm located in Northern Virginia that specializes in federal employee, security clearance, retirement and private sector employee matters.

By Melissa L. Watkins, Esq. 

Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs) can be a dangerous proposition for federal employees.

Federal employees who realize that a PIP is being considered, should be wary and consult with a federal employment attorney early on to make sure they maximize their chance of surviving a performance related action. In our experience, an employee being put on a PIP is usually heading towards more serious disciplinary action, such as demotion or removal.

Federal employees often will be told that a PIP is only designed to benefit them and make them better performers. Managers often promise employees that they will be given special assistance to ensure they are successful during a PIP period, only for the employees to later find themselves facing a potential demotion or removal some months later having not received any of the promised assistance during the process. In many ways, the deck is stacked against the employee when facing a PIP.

Opportunity to Improve

If an employee is said to be having performance issues, before an agency can take any action to demote or remove the employee, the agency must notify the employee of the concern and give the employee an opportunity to improve. This notification and opportunity to improve is usually accomplished by the agency placing the employee on a PIP. Through the PIP, the agency must inform the employee what performance is not acceptable, what critical performance element(s) are at issue, what standard the employee must meet to be found acceptable, and provide a warning to the employee that if their performance does not reach an acceptable level, the employee could be demoted or removed.

What To Do If Placed on a PIP

There are a few things that an employee can do once receiving a PIP to give themselves the best chance at being successful. Those things include:

• Providing a response to the PIP. While the PIP doesn’t afford a traditional response process, an employee can always put together a response nonetheless. In such a response, the employee should identify any concerns with the PIP and provide examples, if they exist, of how the employee has been performing successfully on the elements at issue.
• Don’t wait to start demonstrating improvement. Even if the employee disagrees with the PIP or the alleged performance concerns, the employee should start working on meeting the performance expectations outlined in the PIP. Waiting too long to address the performance issues can sometimes lead to the employee running out of time in the PIP process.
• Document everything. Once a PIP is issued, one of the employee’s best tools is documentation. For all tasks completed relevant to the PIP, the employee should save documentation showing the task and its completion. The employee should also keep a log of all assistance received and all feedback provided from the supervisor. As mentioned above, if an agency fails to provide feedback or assistance, it can impact the agency’s ability to move forward with disciplinary action.
• Request an Accommodation. If the employee believes that the performance issues are related to a disability, the employee should request an accommodation as soon as possible. The accommodation will not stop the PIP, but ideally, the accommodation will allow the employee to be better able to meet the performance expectations outlined in the PIP.
• Keep an eye on the use of leave. An employee can use leave during a PIP period. An employee on approved leave (annual, sick, or leave without pay) cannot be penalized for work that is not completed while on approved leave. Also, if an employee is on leave for an extended time during a PIP period, the PIP period may need to be extended to give the employee a meaningful opportunity to improve.

What Happens After a PIP

If the employee is still performing unacceptably after the PIP period, the next step is usually some type of discipline. The options include reassignment, demotion, or removal. If the employee is proposed for removal, he or she can be removed in a very short period of time after the decision on the PIP.

Given the potential serious implications of a PIP, employees who believe one may be issued, or have received a PIP, should consult with an attorney to determine how best to proceed. Our law firm advises federal employees in various employment matters. We can be contacted at www.berrylegal.com or by telephone at (703) 668-0070.

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

Also known as driving while intoxicated or under the influence, drunk driving refers to drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or more. Lower BACs also constitute drunk driving for those under 21 as it is illegal for minors to consume alcohol.

How to Avoid Drinking and Driving

There are several different ways you can safeguard yourself and your loved ones against drunk driving. Though the most straightforward solution is to abstain from alcohol while in public or when you may otherwise have to drive, the reality is not always this easy.

Below are some tips on ensuring no one gets behind the wheel after drinking:

• Before going out, pick a designated driver who will abstain from drinking; if necessary, have everyone give their keys to the designated driver.
• Do not go out alone if you know you will be drinking; if you are going out alone, use a driving service like Uber instead of driving yourself.
• Never get in a car if you know the driver has been drinking; if you realize a driver is drunk after getting in a car, exit as soon as possible.
• If must drive, make sure to eat a meal and stay hydrated; wait as long as possible before driving again.
• If you are hosting an event that involves alcohol, arrange for guests to sleep over, have sober drivers on hand, or arrange for driving services.

Detecting Drunk Drivers On The Road

Drunk drivers pose a threat to you and your passengers even if you are not the one under the influence. If a drunk driver hits you or otherwise involves you in an accident, it can result in lengthy hospital stays for either yourself or your passengers. In a worst case scenario, such an accident may even be fatal.

Roughly one-third of all accident fatalities result from drunk driving, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This translates to one person dying due to drunk driving roughly every 52 minutes.

Below are common signs that someone is driving while intoxicated:

• Making unnecessarily wide turns or weaving while turning
• Drifting across lanes or being otherwise unable to stay in one lane
• Driving very slowly or intermittently driving slowly and quickly
• Braking erratically or making sudden stops for no reason
• Not responding to traffic signs or having a late response

If you suspect a driver is drunk, do not attempt to engage them or attempt to get them off the road. Instead, try to navigate away from them and call 911 or other local law enforcement. Give them any identifying information you noticed, such as the car’s make or model, but do not follow the vehicle to get this information.

Consequences of Drinking and Driving

There are serious repercussions of drinking and driving. Depending on the circumstances surrounding drunk driving, you could be charged with anything from a misdemeanor up to a felony.

Even first-time offenses can result in fines of up to $10,000, community service, a suspended driver’s license, or even jail time. If you do keep your license, you will have to pay higher insurance rates and may have to pay to install an ignition lock device. These are just the consequences related to you — if you hurt someone else, you will likely have to pay their hospital bills or other medical expenses. A DC DUI lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and mitigate the repercussions if you have been charged with driving under the influence.

This holiday season, join us at The Residence at Colvin Run for a festive celebration of local talent and holiday cheer at our Holiday Shoppe!

Located at 1131 Walker Road in Great Falls, Virginia, this enchanting event is set to take place tomorrow (Tuesday, December 5) from 1-3 p.m.

Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season as we showcase a curated selection of wares from talented local craftspeople, artisans, and small businesses. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover unique holiday treasures and thoughtful gifts for your loved ones. Whether you’re a resident, family member, or part of the vibrant Great Falls community, everyone is welcome to join in the festivities.

The Residence at Colvin Run, an Assisted Living and Memory Care community, invites you to experience “Boutique Senior Living in the Heart of Great
Falls.”

Don’t miss this chance to add a touch of local magic to your holiday season!

We look forward to celebrating with you at The Residence at Colvin Run’s Holiday Shoppe.

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

This biweekly column is sponsored by The Mather in Tysons, Virginia, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better.

For many, the holiday season includes traditions, expectations, commitments — and rising levels of stress. If you are among those who feel their stress levels rising at this time of year, try an easy solution: mindful meditation.

Myriad studies have shown that a regular meditation practice can reduce stress and physically change the brain so that you have greater capacity to continually manage stress. Learning to avoid stress saves a lot of wear and tear on your body as well as your brain.

Mindful meditation refocuses the attention, calming the mind and lowering blood pressure and heart rate. A morning meditation session of even a few minutes can help you manage stress throughout your day.

As you learn to focus, you’re training your attention and your ability to tune out the information overload and jumbled thoughts we live with constantly — and better attention means a sharper memory. Additionally, studies show that meditation can actually grow, or increase the volume of, areas of the brain responsible for:

• complex cognitive processes including planning, goal setting, decision making, attention, and short-term memory
• positive mood
• improving awareness of body, gut feeling, and empathy
• long-term memory

Types of Meditation 

Meditation is simple and takes as little as a few minutes a day. But remember — if you want to enjoy the benefits above, you’ll need to meditate regularly, and ideally that means every day.

Here are a few types of meditation to consider:

Mindfulness sitting meditation is the most common form of meditation. Sit comfortably with your back, neck, and head straight but not stiff. Concentrate on your breathing and the sensations it creates. When your mind wanders or you become distracted, gently return your focus to your breath. Try this for just five minutes at first, gradually increasing the time.

Visualization meditation involves mental visualization of an image, which is usually meaningful or religious. While you meditate (as above), you try to mentally visualize your chosen image in as much detail as possible. As you do so, you may also reflect on the meaning of your image.

Walking meditation is similar to sitting meditation. Slowly and comfortably walk, focusing your attention on each step, the movement of your body, and the feel of each foot on the ground. When your mind wanders, gently bring it back to the movement of walking.

Loving-kindness meditation focuses on practicing compassion. As you practice cultivating feelings of loving kindness, gradually move your focus from feeling this toward yourself, then to loved ones, and then to people who are less close to you.

Look for a local meditation class, or purchase audio recordings of guided meditations. Once you’ve mastered the basics of your chosen type of meditation, it will become a matter of practicing — and enjoying the benefits that come with it.

The Mather, projected to open in Tysons, VA, in early 2024 for those 62 and better, is a forward-thinking Life Plan Community that defies expectations of what senior living is supposed to be.

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

Written by Mina Lucks, Synergy Design & Construction

The 2023 Reston Home Tour recently sparked our imagination with its theme “A Style All Their Own,” which beautifully encapsulates the essence of home renovation. For anyone who attended the tour, there were noticeably different energies as you entered each unique space, which is what makes each year’s tour such a highlight of the fall season. From the perspective of someone who sees a lot of clients chasing the latest design trends, the emphasis on the importance of building upon a homeowner’s personal sense of style when transforming a house into a home made this tour particularly special. 

So how do you achieve the balance of form, function and personality? In this month’s article, we’ll delve into the significance of embracing your unique sense of style when tackling a renovation project to ensure the final product is truly “you”!

Create(ing) a Home with Personality

After living overseas for over 18 years, these Reston homeowners needed a complete overhaul of their 1968 colonial prior to their landing back state-side. Bringing home with them a blue upholstered sofa, a sound system with vintage record player, and a particular beloved rainbow rug, they were looking for more than a basic refresh.

Allowing their acquired contemporary European tastes to shine by fusing the warmth of walnut base cabinetry with contemporary white upper cabinets, they were able to create a modern yet eclectic aesthetic in their new Kitchen. Adding the vibrant teal handmade Fireclay tile — vertically stacked for a bolder statement — truly brings their whole space together in one cohesive statement that is uniquely “them.”

See more of this kitchen’s personality remodel here.

Achieve a Functional Fit for Your Lifestyle 

Renovations aren’t just about making a home look good; they should also enhance its functionality. Aligning renovation choices with lifestyle preferences ensures a home serves its family in a way that is tailored to their individual needs.

This hockey-loving family with two teenagers wanted to create a space where they could not only spend time together as a family, but their kids could also have a fun and entertaining place to hang out with friends. The final result was an amazing new multi-layered space with a custom bar and cozy TV area and an adjacent space for games, creating a fun and functional space for friends and family of all ages. 

Design Harmonious Spaces

Embracing style in a renovation doesn’t mean every room has to be drastically different from the next. It’s about finding a common thread or theme that ties everything together while still allowing for personal expression in each space. By incorporating a consistent color palette, texture, or design element throughout a home, one can achieve a sense of cohesion while still allowing each room to have its own unique charm.

This Reston homeowner took down an onerous wall in the middle of the home between their kitchen and dining room and brought the spaces together visually through complimentary cabinetry colors, warm wood elements and unique lighting features.

Whether your preferences are bold and contemporary or calm and casual, your home is an extension of you and should suit your character and taste. Even if you’re not exactly sure what your style is in the beginning, as you embark on a renovation journey you’ll begin to discover not only your personal sense of style, but ways your home can serve as a canvas for your individuality to shine through.

Not sure where to start? Get in touch with us today to take the first step in designing a home that is unapologetically a “style of your own.”

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney Associates. Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479.

The anticipation of winter fun is infectious!

If you’re not already planning, fear not — I’m here to assist. As we bid farewell to fall and welcome winter’s embrace, creating a winter bucket list is an excellent way to infuse excitement into the season and prioritize memorable experiences for all.

Here are some top picks to consider in Fairfax County and a little beyond:

• Winter Walk of Lights at Meadowlark Botanical Park: Experience the beauty of a winter wonderland as you stroll through the captivating lights, turning an ordinary evening into a magical one.
• Ice Skating at Reston Town Center: Embrace the charm of winter by gliding gracefully on ice, surrounded by the vibrant energy of Reston Town Center.
• Bull Run Festival of Lights: Illuminate your nights with the dazzling display at Bull Run, a spectacular festival that captures the essence of the season.
• Enchanted Christmas at Nationals Park: Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with this enchanting event, spreading joy and creating lasting memories.
• DMV Winter Lantern Festival: Be captivated by the artistry of lanterns, casting a warm glow and creating a mesmerizing atmosphere.
• Skiing or Tubing at Massanutten (Pro Tip — Pack a bathing suit for the indoor Waterpark): Enjoy the thrill of winter sports and extend the fun with a relaxing dip in the indoor Waterpark — a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
• Unleash Your Creative Side at Board & Brush: Channel your inner artist and create something uniquely yours, adding a personal touch to your winter experience.
• Culinary Excellence and Date Nights at Sur La Table: Elevate your winter evenings by exploring your culinary skills or indulging in a date night at Sur La Table, promising an exceptional experience that exceeds expectations.

As we embrace the colder months, let this Winter Bucket List be your guide to creating cherished moments and embracing the spirit of the season. Wishing you a joyful and enchanting winter season!

Explore Fairfax with Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney.

Sharmane Medaris | Live Fairfax | www.soldbysharmane.com | [email protected] | @soldbysharmane | 813-504-4479 | 374 Maple Avenue Suite 202, Vienna, VA 22180

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

This holiday season, join us at The Residence at Colvin Run for a festive celebration of local talent and holiday cheer at our Holiday Shoppe!

Located at 1131 Walker Road in Great Falls, Virginia, this enchanting event is set to take place on Tuesday, December 5, from 1-3 p.m.

Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season as we showcase a curated selection of wares from talented local craftspeople, artisans, and small businesses. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover unique holiday treasures and thoughtful gifts for your loved ones. Whether you’re a resident, family member, or part of the vibrant Great Falls community, everyone is welcome to join in the festivities.

The Residence at Colvin Run, an Assisted Living and Memory Care community, invites you to experience “Boutique Senior Living in the Heart of Great
Falls.”

Don’t miss this chance to add a touch of local magic to your holiday season!

We look forward to celebrating with you at The Residence at Colvin Run’s Holiday Shoppe.

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

This biweekly column is sponsored by The Mather in Tysons, Virginia, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better.

How does your plan for the future look? If you’re a planner, you’ve already got your investments and assets figured out, and your estate plan in order. But there are other important aspects of planning that are often ignored — such as laying the groundwork for your future quality of life.

More and more people are considering the solid advantages of Life Plan Communities. These age-restricted, amenity-rich communities invite people to live on their own terms, enjoying a host of services and opportunities, along with the added benefit of access to on-site health care services, if ever needed.

A local example of this is The Mather, a Life Plan Community opening in early 2024 in Tysons, Virginia, for those 62 and better.

An Engaged Lifestyle

Because you move into a Life Plan Community while you’re independent, you can take full advantage of the rewarding benefits of living there. At The Mather, residents will enjoy amenities such as:

• A fitness center with cardio and strength-training equipment, group classes, personal training options, and more
• A heated, saltwater lap pool, whirlpool, and sauna
• Inspiring social, educational, and cultural programs, such as digital media workshops, live music, art technology seminars, and featured lecturers
• An art studio for exploring creativity through art classes and collaborative Open Art Studio sessions
• A spa offering signature services like facials and massage, with a Himalayan salt wall and more

These and other amenities and services are designed to meet the needs and desires of today’s older adults — and they also support overall wellness.

Proven Benefits

A national, five-year study revealed clear associations between living in a Life Plan Community and enjoying better health. The Age Well Study is a large-scale national study conducted over five years by Mather Institute, involving a total of 8,228 residents living in 122 Life Plan Communities around the US.

The Age Well Study compared the health and well-being of people who live in Life Plan Communities to a demographically similar sample of older adults living in the community at large. The findings reveal that residents of Life Plan Communities reported better physical, emotional, intellectual, social, and vocational wellness than their community-dwelling counterparts over a five-year span, with more favorable ratings in social and intellectual wellness in particular.

Highlights of the findings include:

• In Year 5, Life Plan Community residents exhibited better self-reported health and higher levels of moderate physical activity compared to older adults from the community at large.
• From Year 1 to 5, social contact significantly increased for residents.
• From Year 1 to 5, overall engagement in intellectual activities significantly increased for residents and decreased for older adults in the community at large.
• Changes in emotional and spiritual wellness were more favorable for older adults in the community at large, while the two groups reported similar changes over time in physical and vocational wellness.

The Age Well Study’s statistical models examined 1) differences in wellness between groups (residents from Life Plan Communities vs. older adults from the community at large), 2) changes in wellness over time (Year 1 vs. Year 5), and 3) whether the changes in wellness were different for Life Plan Community residents compared to the community-at-large respondents. Analyses controlled for age, gender, income, education, and marital status.

The increase in social contact within Life Plan Communities is not surprising, since in a community like The Mather it’s easy to find neighbors with similar interests to form a hiking club, theater-going group, or other social groups.

These research findings support the fact that, for those making a plan for their future, Life Plan Communities like The Mather are worth a closer look.

The Mather, projected to open in Tysons, VA, in early 2024 for those 62 and better, is a forward-thinking Life Plan Community that defies expectations of what senior living is supposed to be.

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney Associates. Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479.

If you’re like me, I’m sure you love to create experiences with your family and friends while they’re in town or even better have an amazing day with your kids while they are out of school on Thanksgiving break.

Whatever the case, creating the perfect D.C. day is a must! I mean, let’s be honest, I’m sure you know someone who is a local, but hasn’t yet experienced all that D.C. has to offer. I mean it is our nation’s capital and people travel from all over the world to experience it, so why aren’t you?

A little secret about me, I spent over 15 years selling D.C. as a destination for conventions at Destination DC, so I have a passion and love for our nation’s capital and all things travel. Also, an insider’s perspective on why D.C. is an amazing place to visit and create memories. If you are ready to venture over the bridge, then here we go! Two of my favorite itineraries!

Experience D.C. Day 1 — The National Mall

I know so many locals that just forget how beautiful our city is and have not been to the National Mall in so long! I took all 3 of my kids in for this exact fun day and let’s just say it inspired me to write this column!

1. Washington Monument (Plenty of street parking just reach out to me and I can always give you some pointers.) My kids love playing tag on the green space or even just rolling down the hill.
2. Head over to the Lincoln Memorial. While capturing all the beauty along the way, make sure to get a glimpse of the World War II Memorial, District of Columbia War Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the NEW S. Park Police Horse Stables (my twins favorite).
3. A day spent on the National Mall means packing lots of snacks and enjoying some of D.C.’s best known food trucks or museum eateries. The National Museum of The American Indian and US Holocaust Memorial Memorial Museum both have great food options that do not require museum entry tickets.

Experience D.C. Day 2 — Favorites with a Seasonal Flair

The itinerary for Day 2 shifts the focus away from the Mall while still offering unique D.C. experiences.

1. Planet Word Museum (Time Entry Tickets available). Ideal for all ages, their tagline is “The museum where language comes to life.”
2. Pick up gifts for family and friends at the DC Holiday Market in Penn Quarter/Chinatown.
3. Compass Coffee (We all need coffee at this point.)
4. The mission of the National Portrait Gallery is “to tell the story of America by portraying the people who shape the nation’s history, development and culture.”
5. Grab an amazing Lunch or Dinner at Jaleo and Zaytinya (2 of my fav).
6. Ice Skating in the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden (November 20, 2023 — March 3, 2024)
7. I am a hotelier at heart so of course I am going to recommend 3 hotels to consider adding to your day or evening, all within walking distance of this day’s itinerary. Keep in mind I am referring to grabbing a beverage or an appetizer, or just walking through the lobby space to capture the holiday decor.
   • Riggs is a remarkable landmark hotel that has a unique speakeasy that is guaranteed to offer a unique experience.
   • Waldorf Astoria is a breathtaking hotel that has a style and elegance you will not regret checking out.
   • The iconic Willard Hotel is definitely a hotel that cannot be duplicated with the amount of history and elegance. They are known for their High Tea; I can tell you from personal experience it is phenomenal.

If you love this and would like more insight, please reach out to me. Also, Destination DC is the one resource you need to bookmark, so please be sure to visit washington.org to create captivating memories with experiences that can only happen in D.C.!

Explore Fairfax with Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney.

Sharmane Medaris | Live Fairfax | www.soldbysharmane.com | [email protected] | @soldbysharmane | 813-504-4479 | 374 Maple Avenue Suite 202, Vienna, VA 22180

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

Break the ice this winter with more than 50 leagues across D.C., Northern Virginia, and Silver Spring in 11 different sports  .

Whether you’re looking to embrace the chill with our outdoor polar bear leagues, looking to huddle up with our indoor leagues, or interested in more social or competitive play, we’ve got you covered.

Create your team or sign up with a friend or solo and we’ll handle the rest. Secure your spot and use code FRAYNOW24 for an exclusive discount at checkout and let the fun begin!*

*Get an additional 10% of leagues, deals and giveaways to partner events, VIP treatment including open bars at select Fray events and more by becoming a Fraylife member today!

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

Are you ready to be transported to a world of enchantment and wonder? Look no further than the upcoming Nutcracker performances right here in Reston and Herndon!

We are thrilled to invite you to South Lakes High School Theater, where the talented Skye Ballet Center dancers will be bringing this timeless holiday classic to life.

Mark your calendars for the Children’s Nutcracker performances on Saturday, November 18, and Sunday, November 19 at the SBC studio in Herndon. This shortened version of the Nutcracker is perfect for families with young children, providing a magical experience that captures the essence of the beloved tale.

For those unable to attend the Children’s performances, we have an additional date on Saturday, November 25 at the SLHS Theater. There will be two performances on this day, at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., allowing you to choose the time that works best for you. This performance will feature an extraordinary cast, including world-renowned talents Eric Poor as the Nutcracker and Simon Tischler as the Cavalier. Prepare to be captivated by their mesmerizing performances, as they transport you to a land filled with Sugar Plum Fairies, toy soldiers, and magical surprises.

Tickets are now available for purchase! Secure your seats early to guarantee the best view of this mesmerizing production. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to create lasting holiday memories with your loved ones.

In addition to their outstanding Nutcracker performances, Skye Ballet Center has more in store for you! Save the dates for their upcoming performances, including the December Gala on Sunday, December 17, and Ballets en Blanc on Saturday, June 1, both at the SLHS Theater in Reston. These events promise to be a celebration of grace, elegance, and artistic brilliance.

To purchase tickets for the Nutcracker and learn more about the Skye Ballet Center, visit skyeballet.ticketleap.com and skyeballetcenter.com.

Get ready to be mesmerized by the talent and passion of these incredible dancers.

Purchase Your Tickets Today!

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

This is a sponsored column by attorneys John Berry and Kimberly Berry of Berry & Berry, PLLC, an employment and labor law firm located in Northern Virginia that specializes in federal employee, security clearance, retirement and private sector employee matters.

By Melissa L. Watkins, Esq. 

One of the more common issues that arise for employees, applicants, and contractors who have or are applying for a security clearance is the issue of illegal drug usage. However, recently, there has been an uptick in agencies paying attention to employees, applicants, and contractors’ use of a less common substance, inhalants.

While many individuals pay attention to and understand their duty to report prior illegal drug use, many are unaware that there are other types of use, involving substances that are not considered illegal or covered by the Controlled Substances Act, that may impact the security clearance process.

In recent years, there has been a trend towards agencies considering misuse of substances, even if the substance is not technically illegal. These agencies have suggested that such use may need to be disclosed on the Standard Form 86 and have indicated that the use may create a basis for someone being denied a security clearance.

What are inhalants, you may ask? This question is the starting point for why this area of focus by agencies is complicated and difficult to navigate. The word actually covers a variety of substances that are consumed, as the name suggests, by inhaling. There is not necessarily a finite or specific list of what substances qualify as inhalants from agencies’ perspectives. However, a starting point for the conversation would be the security questionnaire itself, currently referred to as the Standard Form 86.

The Standard Form 86 contains a section where individuals are asked to disclose their prior involvement with various substances. Under the list of substances, there is a category for inhalants where only two examples are provided: toluene and amyl nitrate.

Toluene is the substance most often associated with paint thinners. Amyl nitrate, a controlled substance requiring a prescription, was previously an ingredient in “poppers” but has not been used in that manner since 1988. However, neither of these two substances are generally what is being consumed when people are engaging in the use of inhalants.

Most people using inhalants recreationally are using “poppers” or “whippets”. Poppers is a slang term that refers to the chemical class called alkyl nitrites that are inhaled. While similar in sound to amyl nitrates, the substance listed on the Standard Form 86, this is a distinct chemical compound. Whippets refers to nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas). The name is in reference to whipped cream canisters, which contain little chargers that are filled with nitrous oxide. Both substances can be purchased from retail establishments, do not include the substances mentioned on the Standard Form 86, and are generally not considered to be illegal.

However, there are some laws in place regulating the production and sale of ingredients in some inhalants. For example, it is lawful to manufacture and sell products made with Isobutyl (including alkyl nitrites or “poppers”) for commercial purposes but such production and sale is prohibited for human consumption. This is why you may see “poppers” or “whippets” being sold as products labeled for other uses such as whipped cream canisters, room deodorizers, leather polish, or nail polish remover, to name a few. However, the laws currently in place do not relate to the person who may end up using the substance.

Given the gray area around the substances, individuals who have engaged in such use and who hold a security clearance or intend to apply for a security clearance should seek legal advice on whether their specific use should be reported and how such use may impact their clearance process.

Our law firm advises government contractors and federal employees in the security clearance process. We can be contacted at www.berrylegal.com or by telephone at (703) 668-0070.

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com