Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney Associates. Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479.
Fairfax County has the ultimate recipe for fun — lakeside adventures!
Imagine a world where nature’s beauty meets endless playtime. Here’s your sneak peek into the coolest lakeside spots that promise smiles, splashes, and unforgettable moments for everyone.
- Burke Lake Park (Burke): Got curious minds and a love for outdoor action? Burke Lake Park is your jackpot! Think of a shimmering lake perfect for paddleboat races and fishing fun. Hike the trails, try mini-golf, and don’t miss the carousel twirls. It’s a natural playground that spells family bonding in capital letters.
- Lake Anne (Reston): Seeking cozy vibes? Lake Anne is your chill spot. Imagine walks by the water, kayaking quests, and lazy lakeside lounging. It’s a picture-perfect place to unwind and soak in the good times with your favorites.
- Occoquan Reservoir (Occuquan): Ready for a hidden gem? Occoquan Reservoir is your zen zone. Kayak or paddleboard through calm waters, play bird detective, and have a picnic like a pro. Trails and nature high-fives are waiting for your gang. Get set for memories that sparkle like the water.
- Lake Accotink (Springfield): Nestled in the heart of nature, Lake Accotink offers an oasis of outdoor fun. Whether it’s fishing, boating, or simply unwinding by the water’s edge, this serene haven has something for everyone. Soak in the beauty, create memories, and let the tranquil waters soothe your soul. Discover the magic of Lake Accotink.
- BONUS — Lake Anna (Spotsylvania): Calling all water lovers, big and small! Lake Anna is your water wonderland. Imagine swimming, splashing, and jet ski zooming. Fishing champs, get ready for a catch-a-palooza. Pack your sunscreen and swimsuits — this lake’s adventures are calling your name.
Ready for action, adventure, and bonding galore? Pack your excitement, snacks, and a dash of curiosity, and head to Fairfax County’s lakes. Nature’s calling, and the best moments are waiting. See you by the water!
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
Fall into fun with DC Fray and register for an upcoming league offered at various locations, days and times before spots fill up 
.
We’re offering kickball, pickleball, basketball, softball, tennis, flag football, bocce and much more across Northern Virginia as well as leagues in D.C.
Take a swing at something new or slide into an old favorite pastime. Join as an individual, group of friends, or as a full team.
Secure your spot as leagues fill up fast!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Laura Schwartz is a licensed Realtor in VA, D.C. and MD 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 [email protected].
We all know housing prices have gone up a lot over the last few years specifically, but have you ever wondered how much land prices have gone up over the past 50 years?
We have some historic homes in Vienna, but the rest of the town is a mix of new builds, pop ups, and original ramblers. Land is also the one thing we can’t make more of, so what’s left is obviously a rare and precious commodity.
Most of the homes in the Town of Vienna sit on approximately one quarter acre (ranging from .23-.26). There are anomalies that are larger and the rare half acre or larger land, but I’m going to specify what I’m measuring below. Remember, I’m talking about averages here.
Quarter Acre Lots in the Town of Vienna
- 1980s: Around $200,000
- 1990s: Mid $300,000
- 2000s: Upper $400,000 and into $500,000 towards the end of the boom in 2007
- 2010s: Here’s where the explosion of tear downs begins… prices hit $600,000s
- 2020s: With the covid boom, I’ve seen quarter acre lots hit mid $850,000 recently
I wish I could go back to the 1980s and buy 20 of them. Original land owners are sitting on a literal gold mine.
And if this isn’t an example of why you should buy real estate, I don’t know how else to demonstrate the strength of real estate for your financial future.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Virginia’s luxury builder, NVHomes, is now selling grand townhomes in the City of Fairfax at Boulevard VI.
Starting from the mid $900s, residences offer high-end exterior designs, two-car garage parking, covered outdoor living, and up to 4 bedrooms. Designer finishes, wide-plank flooring, quartz countertops, and LED lighting are included.
Located on the former Paul VI campus, Boulevard VI is a unique urban destination featuring future onsite shops, parks, and trails underway. Metro, I-66, and Route 50 offer easy commutes into Tysons, Arlington, and Washington, D.C.
Nearby hot spots such as Dolce Vita, 99 Ranch Market, Van Dyck Park, Masala Wok, and Starbucks are only a short walk. Buyers also enjoy proximity to date night options in Fairfax City, Mosaic, and the Town of Vienna.
Model home tours are offered daily by appointment and closing cost incentives are available. Come discover luxury living in Fairfax.
Schedule a visit today!
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.
“Happiness is a warm puppy,” according to Peanuts creator Charles Schulz. It turns out that science has proven him right; research has revealed that owning a dog offers many concrete benefits, including positive impacts on physical, mental, and emotional health.
That’s good news for dog owners and their canine-appreciative neighbors who are planning a move to The Mather, a Life Plan Community for those 62 and better that’s opening in Tysons in early 2024. The Mather will be a pet-friendly community, with an adjacent dog park among its many green space amenities.
One future resident of The Mather, who asked to go by M.O.B. for Mother of Barlow, says, “The ability to own pets at The Mather was absolutely instrumental to us. We took our terrier Barlow on a walk around The Mather’s immediate vicinity before we committed ourselves. We wanted to check out the walking opportunities for him and for us.” The Mather’s nearly three acres of private and public green space links to other green spaces, creating a dog-walker’s paradise.
Lou Marotta and his husband Mike Fullwood will move to The Mather with their 100-pound Scottish deerhound Elvis next year. “We’re excited about The Mather. We’ve met all our neighbors on the 27th floor, and Elvis is already the floor’s mascot,” says Lou. Mike points out, “That’s a good example of how dogs have a unifying effect.”
That unifying effect is just one example of the powerful benefits that dogs offer us humans:
Dogs Can Brighten Your Mood
People are hard-wired for connection, and research has proven that simply petting a dog can increase oxytocin levels, a hormone that lowers blood pressure, helps reduce fear and anxiety, and improves alertness.
“That steady companionship enhances your life immeasurably. Ultimately, it’s the emotional role this companion has in your life,” says M.O.B.
Dogs Can Keep You Physically Active
One obvious benefit of having a dog is that it keeps you active. Walking a dog ensures regular physical activity — a key component in staying healthy and independent, boosting mood, and even benefiting the brain. “We walk a minimum of four to six miles a day. He’s got lots of energy!” says M.O.B.
Elvis gets four walks a day. In the past year, he, Lou, and Mike moved from a home in the Virginia countryside to an apartment in Washington, D.C., in preparation for their move to The Mather, and the trio is exploring city life. “We live within walking distance of the Jefferson Memorial and the Washington Monument,” says Mike. “Earlier today, I walked him around the entire Tidal Basin.”
Dogs Strengthen Social Ties
Dog walkers get much more interaction with neighbors than others, as they meet, greet, and talk to those they pass. “Having a dog makes you interact with others more. Being in a new town, we’ve made friends taking Elvis in and out of our building,” says Lou. Mike adds, “Elvis is more noticeable than many dogs, so people are inclined to stop and talk to us.”
M.O.B. enjoys the enthusiasm of others who meet Barlow: “Who doesn’t like to have strangers talk about how wonderful your pet is? There’s a joy to having someone praise your dog.” And she points out a unique aspect of socializing with people on her walks: “When you’re in the company of a dog, you’re identified as a dog person; it’s a welcome sign to interact with you. It fosters community, and the sharing of resources and information with other dog owners,” she says.
Australian researchers found that dog walkers can have a positive effect on their whole community, making community members more likely to interact on the street, meet each other, and even exchange favors with neighbors.
Dogs Can Keep You Alert & Engaged
Petting a dog or cat also strengthens sensations such as touch. Something as simple as touching a pet sustains psychological well-being by stimulating the senses each day. Studies have shown that people also exhibit improved alertness when caring for a pet.
“A dog demands love — and they demand it from you; they need it in order to thrive,” says Lou. “I think that’s good for us as we age — to have something that needs us, another being that we have to care about.”
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 early 2024.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Laura Schwartz is a licensed Realtor in VA, D.C. and MD 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 [email protected].
I can’t believe we’re within back to school talk!
Thinking about school supplies, clothes, and other necessities the costs start to add up! Virginia recently did away with tax free weekend, so I’m putting together a list for you to explore other options for back to school savings.
Maryland Tax Free Week 2023: August 13 to 19. The first $40 on any backpack purchase will be tax free, plus any qualifying clothing and footwear purchases $100 or less will be exempt.
Check out the Tanger outlets near the National Harbor for favorites like Under Armour, Old Navy, JCrew Factory (check the Tanger website for an additional 15% at JCrew), Nike, Adidas, Levis, Banana Republic, and Carters!
Target is offering 20% off the whole store (not just school supplies!) until August 26 for teachers, home schoolers, daycare teachers, early childhood education centers, and any university or college educator. Must verify an email to qualify. Check out this link for more details.
Also, if you’re doing a lot of online shopping, don’t forget about the website like Rakuten.com where you can get cash back for purchases online.
Enjoy your last 2 weeks of summer if you’re an FCPS family! And if you’re private school — enjoy your last 2.5 weeks of summer!
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 a taco enthusiast on the hunt for new and exciting flavors? Look no further!
Fairfax County has some sensational taco spots, each offering a unique twist on this beloved Mexican classic. Join us on a mouthwatering journey as we explore the freshest additions to the local culinary scene and uncover their mouthwatering signature tacos.
1. Taco Bamba
As one of the most beloved local taco chains in the area, Taco Bamba has earned a reputation for serving up tantalizing tacos with a twist. Chef Victor Albisu’s passion for Mexican street food shines through in every bite. The menu at each Taco Bamba boasts an array of innovative and flavorful options, each bursting with authentic ingredients and bold spices. From their “Bulgogi Bullfight” with Korean pork and gochujang romesco to the “Sweet Meen” featuring honey drizzle fried chicken, every taco at the Vienna location is a taste sensation that transports you to the vibrant streets of Mexico. With vibrant ambiances and creative taco offerings, each Taco Bamba location is a must-visit for taco aficionados seeking a culinary adventure.
2. Fish Taco
For seafood lovers, Fish Taco in Tysons is a coastal-inspired taco haven that transports diners to the shores of Baja California. Specializing in fresh and sustainable seafood, their “Fish Tacos” are a shining star on the menu. Crispy beer-battered fish, tangy slaw, and a creamy chipotle mayo combine to create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Fish Taco’s commitment to using quality ingredients ensures that every taco is a flavorful and wholesome delight. With its beachy ambiance and emphasis on seafood excellence, Fish Taco offers a taco experience that will leave you dreaming of sandy shores and sunny skies.
3. Taco Zocalo
A vibrant Mexican-inspired eatery is a celebration of authentic flavors and culture. Step inside and immerse yourself in a warm and inviting atmosphere adorned with captivating elements of Mexican art and tradition. At Taco Zocalo, they take pride in crafting a diverse menu that showcases the essence of Mexican cuisine. Their specialty lies in an array of mouthwatering tacos, each prepared with love and care. Indulge in a delightful selection of fillings, from succulent carne asada and tender carnitas to zesty chicken, fresh fish, and satisfying vegetarian options.
4. Mama Tigre
Indulge in the culinary artistry of Mama Tigre, where Chef and owner Renu Prakash and her talented team unleash the full force of creativity in their inspired kitchens. Rooted in native Mexican comfort cuisine, Chef Prakash infuses a tantalizing array of exotic and complex spices, drawing inspiration from her motherland, India, to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. From the “Steak ‘N’ Cheese Taco” to “Chicken Tikka Tacos” you will not be disappointed!
Experience the flavors of a vibrant Mexican marketplace at El Pueblo Tacos. Their signature “Tacos Al Carbon” are the traditional tacos with a fiesta of taste for the senses that transport you to the heart of Mexico.
These taco spots in Fairfax County are redefining the culinary landscape with their innovative and delicious creations. Whether you prefer classic recipes or bold fusions, there’s a taco to suit every palate. So, gather your friends, bring your appetite, and embark on a taco adventure like no other! Fairfax County’s taco scene is waiting to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more of these mouthwatering delights.
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
If you or someone else’s life is in danger, you would probably first consider calling 911. However, when the threat to life is due to another person, you may be hesitant to call in their presence for fear of reiteration.
For example, a husband or wife that has been a victim of assault in a case of domestic abuse may want to be discreet when making a call to avoid further assault.
If they attempt to make a call and the other person stops them or interrupts their call, that person can be said to have interfered with a 911 call, which is a criminal offense under CGS Section 53a-183b.
Understanding Interference with a 911 Call
There are several definitions of interfering with a 911 call in Connecticut General Statutes § 53a-183b. The basic definition is intentionally hindering or preventing an individual from making a 911 call to seek help from the police or report a crime. There are two forms of interference as stipulated under the law – physical and verbal interruption.
Physical interference refers to using physical force to prevent the other person from making a call. Some examples of this include breaking their phone, snatching the phone from the hands of the 911 caller, hanging up the phone, and other forms of physical disruption of a call.
Verbal interference involves taking over the phone and giving the wrong information about the situation. For example, telling the operator that there is no problem while there is one is a form of verbal interference. A person can also be charged with verbal interference if they use verbal threats against the caller to keep them from making a call or to force them to hang up.
Consequences of Interfering With a 911 Call
If you are arrested for interfering with a 911 call, you will be looking at potential class A misdemeanor charges that carry penalties of up to one year in jail, probation, and fines not exceeding $2,000.
Since most cases of interfering with a 911 call result from domestic abuse cases, they can result in other consequences, such as restraining orders, because the court may deem the victim living around the perpetrator to be unsafe. The judge may apply any of the three types of restraining orders: full no contact; full residential stay-away; or partial.
Full no-contact restraining orders bar the perpetrator from having any contact with the victim, which includes being barred from returning home. In the full residential restraining order, you are allowed some contact but cannot enter the protected person’s residence. A partial restraining order is the most lenient of the three; it allows you contact, including living with the victim but under conditions that you will not subject them to any form of threatening or intimidation.
Get Legal Help
“Facing an arrest for interfering with a 911 call doesn’t always mean you are guilty of the offense you are charged with. Sometimes it can be a false accusation,” says Attorney Mark Sherman of The Law Offices of Mark Sherman, LLC.
For example, the other person could make a call and drop it midway. If this happens, there is a high chance that the police will appear anyway. If the other person then claims that you are the reason they hang up, you could be charged with interference with the call.
Due to the emotive nature of domestic abuse cases, getting off the hook can be quite a task, so the best thing to do in such situations is to speak to a lawyer. Even when you think you are not innocent, a lawyer can help better the outcomes of your case by leveraging available options, such as accelerated rehabilitation if you are a first-time offender.
Help DC Fray and Founders Row pack the backpack and stock the lockers this school year on Thursday, August 10.
You can earn one raffle entry for every three items you donate and enjoy lawn games, free snacks and Lost Boy Cider tastings. Plus, meet with local schools and children’s foundations to get involved.
Pencil us into your schedule to make a difference for underprivileged youth and have some fun while doing it!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy life at The View Alexandria by Goodwin LivingTM.
Nonprofit and faith-based, Goodwin Living has been supporting, honoring and uplifting the lives of older adults since 1967. Nestled in the hills overlooking Washington, D.C., in Alexandria’s West End, The View Alexandria is the newest member of the Goodwin Living family of senior living communities and healthcare services.
Summertime… and the Living Is Easy
This summer, residents are making the most of the maintenance-free lifestyle that allows them to do all the things they want to do — and none of the things they don’t. They mingle at outdoor barbecues, enjoy sun-filled strolls in the gardens, cool off with an iced drink on the patio, savor seasonal meals in our restaurant-style dining room and take in the breathtaking views of Washington, D.C. in the climate-controlled comfort of our rooftop lounge.
Enjoy Special Limited-Time Savings
This vibrant independent lifestyle is made more affordable by a value-based, no-commitment rental contract. And this summer, living at The View Alexandria has become even more affordable with a special promotion.
Simply become a resident of The View Alexandria by August 31, 2023, and you’ll receive 50% off the community fee.
After you move in, the seasons to follow will be even more exciting, as incredible updates and renovations are being made to the campus.
Learn more about our special limited-time incentives at 703.454.8946 or TheViewAlexandria.org.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
