This biweekly column is sponsored by The Mather in Tysons, Virginia, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better.
Research has shown that older adults who engage with the arts in a group setting — anything from dancing to a poetry group to singing in a choir — enjoy tangible benefits in multiple areas of health. This has to do with feelings of mastery, and with social connection.
“This research, combined with Dr. Gene Cohen’s description of life after 50 as a time of potential and inner growth known as the Creative Age, forms a foundation for using creativity to support personal wellness,” says Caroline Edasis, AVP of resident engagement for Mather. Mather is the organization that’s bringing The Mather, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better, opening in Tysons next month.
Mather encourages residents in their existing communities — not just those who are established artists — to try creating new art forms in Open Art Studios. These studios, which position arts engagement as a vehicle for wellness, not just recreation, inviting both lifelong and new artists to explore their own Creative Age in a welcoming group setting.
“While working in diverse media including ceramics and mixed media/painting, participants often realize alongside their peers that they have an untapped expressive ability, a new love for a specific media, or a personal project to pursue,” says Caroline. “One of our master’s-level facilitators, trained in art and psychology, is present to support each individual’s creative journey, and that person helps transform the group into an uplifting community in which residents learn more about each other and themselves.”
Inquiry-Based Art Viewing
Mather also has a signature approach to art appreciation — one that mirrors how contemporary museum practices are evolving. Rather than teaching or encouraging art appreciation with lectures from an expert such as a docent, they focus on inclusive, inquiry-based art-viewing techniques.
“Did you know that the average person spends 17 seconds looking at a work of art in a museum?” asks Caroline. “In our visual literacy programs, we often spend a full hour describing an image, sharing stories conjured by the work of art, or even creating group poems in response to the work. These techniques focus on the interests, experiences, and curiosity of viewers to deliver intellectually stimulating content while challenging us to bring culture down from the pedestal and into our lives.”
The Mather has already formed relationships with local arts organizations, and plans to offer inquiry-based art experiences for residents on-site in museums, theaters, galleries, and more.
Mather recognizes that creativity is about much more than visual art. They encourage everyone to recognize aging as a time of great creative potential, whether through music, poetry, storytelling, dance and movement, or even gardening — the sky is truly the limit.
The Mather, opening in early 2024 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.
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 thenose@
Happy February!
We’re two months into the new year and Valentine’s Day — less than 24 hours away — is a time for romance, chocolates and best of all, Champagne. But specifically, Grower Champagne like Champagne Bauser.
Kicking your taste buds and with Special Bottling, Champagne Bauser is now available at Arrowine. Just in time for Valentine’s Day!
How did Champagne Bauser come to Arrowine? A little bit of backstory from Doug Rosen himself…
I was hunting for Champagne from the tiny Village of Les Ricey (the home of Marie and Olivier Horiot, whose Champagnes are the best-known, highly allocated, and twice the price. We have a few right now.)
Les Ricey was a favorite source of Champagne for Louis XIV. It is located at the southern end of the Côte des Bar, far removed from the big-name Champagne Houses in Reims, etc. But this sleepy corner of Champagne is a favorite source of grapes for the “Big Gun” Champagne Houses.
Les Ricey’s Champagnes are richly flavored, extremely mineral (for Pinot Noir,) and very Burgundian. Considering how close Les Riceys is to Chablis and that it enjoys the same Kimmeridgian soils, it should not be surprising.
With such a high demand for Les Ricey fruit, few producers and far fewer Estate Bottlers export to the United States and command hefty price tags when they do. But not at Arrowine. At as low as $44.99 a bottle, Champagne Bauser is a “stupid good” and a steal! Don’t drink this standing up; you might pass out from pleasure.
And don’t forget the chocolates and cheese! What’s Champagne on Valentine’s Day without the cheese, charcuterie and chocolates?
Interested in graduate school?
George Mason University invites you to attend an upcoming open house at Mason Square in Arlington to learn more about the 40+ graduate programs at three Mason academic units: the Schar School of Policy and Government, Costello College of Business, and the Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution at an in-person open house.
When: Thursday, February 22 | Drop by any time between 5-7 p.m.!
Where: Van Metre Hall Multipurpose Room | 3351 Fairfax Drive, Arlington, VA 22201
This is the perfect opportunity to explore your graduate school options, meet your future professors face-to-face, connect with our admissions team, and find out where a Mason graduate degree can take you next.
George Mason University offers in-state tuition to Virginia residents. Plus, incoming Schar School students who reside in Washington, D.C., and Maryland can now qualify for the Regional Pricing Policy for a master’s or certificate program!
Hourly parking is available in the Van Metre Hall Garage. The campus is also metro accessible (Virginia Square — Orange or Silver lines). To learn more about the 40+ graduate programs at George Mason University’s Arlington campus, register for the open house or fill out our inquiry form.
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
Financial issues are one of the most common security concerns for security clearance holders or applicants. When facing financial issues, it is important to be proactive in attempting to rectify them before they become a reason for the loss of a security clearance. When you run into these issues, it is important to hire a security clearance lawyer to advise you.
Financial issues are often called “Guideline F” cases in security clearance cases. In Guideline F cases, the Government’s concern involves how a person has handled his or her finances and their vulnerability to financial manipulation. The criteria for evaluating such cases are covered in Security Executive Agent Directive (SEAD 4) (pages 15-16).
Here are 5 tips for security clearance holders or applicants when dealing with financial debts and other issues:
- Remain Current on Debts
This can be easier said than done. Most security clearance clients seek our assistance when they have had multiple bills that are past due, delinquent, in collections or have been charged off. In some cases, the debts have been ignored. In financial cases, the existence of multiple unpaid debts is one of the most common reasons for denying a security clearance. The first step is to quickly work to resolve major debts to avoid security clearance issues.
- Work with Creditors (or at Least Attempt to)
A debt cannot always be paid off in full immediately. Additionally, it can be easy to ignore a creditor, especially where the debt is too high or disputed, but that is not a good idea. Clearance holders or applicants who attempt to resolve a debt are far better off than those who ignore it. Sometimes creditors do not return calls or are unreasonable, but the key is to document all of the steps taken to resolve a debt. Even where a creditor is unwilling to respond or resolve matters, this can be very important. It is often the case that a creditor will settle a debt with an individual. Clearance holders or applicants should attempt to work with creditors where possible to resolve their debts. All documentation about such efforts should be retained for possible use later.
- Stay Current with Taxes
Clearance holders in tax trouble or who fail to pay and/or file their taxes take a major risk in losing their security clearance. This risk increases if the issue affects multiple tax years. Tax issues are viewed more significantly for security clearance purposes because they are debts owed to the Government. The Government focuses on both taxes owed and whether or not tax filings were completed on time.
If outstanding taxes or tax liens are too much for the individual to pay off all at once, it is important to try to work out a resolution with the IRS or state/county tax agency. All efforts showing good faith work to resolve tax issues can be helpful if a security clearance issue arises. We often recommend involving a tax attorney or accountant, depending on the severity of the tax issues.
- Report Major Financial Issues to Security Officers
If major financial issues arise, it can be important to report them, in advance, to an individual’s security officer. Doing so in appropriate situations can be used as evidence of mitigation for these security concerns. For example, if a bankruptcy arises, it is important to report that to a security officer. If a clearance holder needs to report a financial issue they should consult with counsel immediately to determine the best course of action.
- Show Financial Stability
When financial security concerns arise, it is helpful for security clearance holders and applicants to show that their finances are being managed well. It is important to show that the individual has a budget, lives within their means, and has a plan for paying off major debts.
Contact Us
When facing financial security concerns it is important to consult with a security clearance lawyer. If you need assistance with a security clearance issue, please contact our office at 703-668-0070 or at www.berrylegal.com to schedule a consultation.
Laura Schwartz is a licensed Realtor in VA and D.C. with McEnearney Associates in Vienna. You can follow Laura on Instagram at @LauraSchwartzRealtor or her Facebook page. Laura can be reached at 703-283-6120 or Laura@GuidingYourMove.com.
Whether you’re a 49ers fan, a Chiefs fan, or a Taylor’s boyfriend fan, I think a lot of people look forward to the commercials and the food we justify eating during the Super Bowl most. So let’s get into your favorites!
As is common in my posts, I’m going to throw out some takeout ideas to save you from cooking:
- Mama Tigre: Queso, chips, guacamole, spicy masala queso, chicken wings, flautas and more
- Bear Branch: Wings! Both fried and grilled are available.
- Foster’s Grille: Wings, burgers, fries, onion rings… Order early — they often sell out!
- Caboose Commons or Tavern: Fried pickle chips (so good!), wings and burgers
- Maple Ave: Crème fraîche wings
- Red Apron: One of my favorite local burgers — they have so many great options for watching football
- Taco Bamba: Their wings! And nachos! They have a Super Bowl Meal Deal for BBQ or Brisket.
- Fermented Pig: Ribs, chicken, sides… all the barbecue your heart could want. They have a Super Bowl Meal Deal for BBQ or Brisket.
Don’t forget desserts and beer/wine. Norms has some great options, including gluten and sulfite free beverages.
How are your resolutions going?
A quick Google search for “Top New Year’s Resolutions” returns searches on health, finances, travel and living sustainably.
If you’ve already used a cheat day, skipped the gym and are left staring at the self-help books you bought a couple weeks ago, you’re not alone. But maybe it’s not that you are bad at resolutions… maybe you just need to make a different resolution — one that not only includes that self-improvement we’re looking for, but also the reward of contributing to your community through service.
The volunteers with Fairfax County Fire and Rescue invite you to join them in serving your neighbors by becoming a first responder (EMT, firefighter) or administrative support member at one of 12 volunteer stations in Fairfax County.
Volunteers serve alongside career staff who work 24/7, 365 days, responding to 911 calls for fires, car accidents, health emergencies and more. Volunteers also help with stand-by opportunities such as 5Ks, high school sports contests and community special events; assist with prolonged responses due to size, scale, weather, etc.; and help educate families about fire safety in their home.
No previous experience is necessary — training and equipment is provided.
Volunteers should be ready to:
- Learn and train
- Dedicate their time to practicing and improving their skills
- Contributing to their local fire station, which are all incorporated 501(c)(3) organizations
There is a rush when responding to an incident with “lights and sirens” in your apparatus. There is the challenge of responding to difficult situations with skills you have learned and teammates you must work with. And there is the reward of helping someone on what may be their absolute worst day — because you are among the first to respond.
This year, please consider giving back to the community through service. And if helping others through emergency response sounds like an opportunity you’d like to learn more about, please watch our latest video, learn about our requirements and find a station near you at www.JoinFairfaxFire.org.
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.
Embark on a culinary journey where exceptional flavors meet community spirit.
If you’re on the lookout for more than just a dining experience, look no further than Hamrock’s Restaurant in the heart of the City of Fairfax. Here, the commitment to providing not only delectable dishes but also fostering a sense of community sets Hamrock’s apart.
Join us in this video to get a glimpse of the passion behind the restaurant and indulge in some behind-the-scenes cooking fun we experienced. Hamrock’s is not just a spot to eat; it’s a place where culinary excellence meets the warmth of community connections.
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect place to make those special occasions truly memorable, look no further than Hamrock’s! Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day (seriously, their brunch is out of this world), Father’s Day, or even Thanksgiving (Pro Tip: the Family Meal Take Out Kits are a game-changer), Hamrock’s has you covered. And don’t get me started on Lobster Sundays — it’s a must-try!
I’ve been to several events at Hamrock’s, and let me tell you, they never disappoint. The vibe, the food, the whole experience — it’s always on point. Trust me; you won’t want to miss out on the magic they create!
Sharmane Medaris | Live Fairfax | www.soldbysharmane.com | Sharmane@mcenearney.com | @soldbysharmane | 813-504-4479 | 374 Maple Avenue Suite 202, Vienna, VA 22180
Laura Schwartz is a licensed Realtor in VA and D.C. with McEnearney Associates in Vienna. You can follow Laura on Instagram at @LauraSchwartzRealtor or her Facebook page. Laura can be reached at 703-283-6120 or Laura@GuidingYourMove.com.
There are some fun events that are held annually that are put on by the Town of Vienna.
If you live in the town, you can register starting next Monday morning, February 5. If tickets are still available after the first week, non-residents can register starting February 12.
These are popular events and I suggest you register early!
Flashlight Egg Hunt —March 29 at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., Glyndon Park
$5 per family member, max 6 participants per household. Bring a basket for all the eggs your collect.
Fishing Rodeo — Wildwood Park, April 6
Bring your own fishing pole! They stock the creek with trout. Anyone 16 years and over is required to have a fishing license.
Written by Mina Lucks, Synergy Design & Construction
As we have welcomed a new year with open arms, we are excited to unveil the interior design trends of 2024 while highlighting a style from 2023 that is here to stay.
Keeping up with the latest trends allows you to create spaces that reflect the pulse of the present and the promise of the future.
So what trends are “in” this year? Here is what you can expect in 2024…
A Trend That’s Not “So Last Year”
In 2023, Biophilic Design firmly established its presence in interior design. This transformative approach recognizes the innate human connection to nature and the impact it has on our well-being.
This year, this trend is growing, as it continues to bring nature indoors and captivates homeowners seeking harmony between their living spaces and the natural world.
So don’t leave Biophilic Design behind — this trend is here to stay!
What 2024 Has in Store: Bold Color Palettes
Now for the new trends. 2024 is the year of bold color palettes. As designers bid farewell to spaces filled with muted tones, the resurgence of vibrant and daring color choices adds a refreshing energy into living spaces.
This year you can expect to see wallpaper with bold patterns, statement tiles that redefine the notion of conventional, and bold hues splashed across accent pieces.
Smart Storage Solutions
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