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 | [email protected] | @soldbysharmane | 813-504-4479 | 374 Maple Avenue Suite 202, Vienna, VA 22180

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

Walking from point A to point B has health, economic, and environmental benefits. However, when walking involves being close to vehicles, there is a chance you could get into an accident. 

As a pedestrian, you do not enjoy the same safety features as car users, so even a seemingly low-impact accident is highly likely to result in injuries. 

One of the most common injuries suffered by pedestrians on Illinois roads is concussions. This guide sheds light on a concussion, from its definition to everything you need to know about it.

What Is A Concussion?

Concussions fall in the category of traumatic brain injuries but are on the lowest end of the severity spectrum. 

They are caused by blunt force trauma to the head or a back-and-forth rocking of the head, smashing its contents (the brain) against the walls of the cranial cavity, causing minor bruises and chemical changes. 

Concussions are not life-threatening in most cases, but they can be if not addressed quickly and depending on the magnitude of the injury.

Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion

Concussion symptoms fall into three categories: physical, cognitive, and emotional. Physical signs include passing out for a moment after the accident, headaches, fatigue and drowsiness, dizziness, balance problems, sensitivity to light, nausea, and vomiting.

Since concussions are injuries to the brain, you can expect they will have an impact on how the brain works, often manifesting in some changes in a victim’s cognitive abilities. Common cognitive changes accompanying a concussion include difficulty concentrating, memory loss, confusion and disorientation, slurred speech, and slow reaction times. 

The chemical changes that come with a concussion may manifest as irritability and mood swings, insomnia, depression, and anxiety.

Delayed Concussions Symptoms

Concussion symptoms do not always show immediately after an accident. Sometimes, they can take as long as 72 hours, even longer, to show, even when the injuries may be severe. So, get medical attention after an accident, even when you feel okay. 

“In most cases, a CT scan can help diagnose a concussion. Even when you do not get a CT scan, visiting a doctor after your accident helps create a link between the accident and concussion symptoms that manifest days after an accident,” says attorney Ronald F. Wittmeyer, Jr. of the Law Offices of Rf Wittmeyer

Compensation for Concussions

Like other types of injuries, you may have a right to compensation if you suffer a concussion in an accident resulting from another party’s negligence. 

To improve your chances of success, start by documenting everything from the accident scene, injuries suffered, witness accounts, etc. Also, enlist the services of a skilled pedestrian accident lawyer based in Illinois. 

If you successfully claim, you will recover all monetary expenses from your accident and non-monetary damages such as pain, suffering, and emotional pain. 

Pedestrian Safety

As a pedestrian, your safety begins with you considering you will be most at risk in an accident with a vehicle. Practical safety precautions for pedestrians include keeping to the sidewalk where there is a very low chance of getting hit by a vehicle unless it loses control. 

If you have to cross the road, use designated pedestrian crossing zones. Avoid crossing the road in poorly lit areas when walking in the dark. Also, consider wearing brightly colored clothes to increase your visibility. However, doing your best may not guarantee absolute safety. When the worst happens, work with an Illinois pedestrian accident lawyer to fight for your rights.

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 [email protected].

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 HuntMarch 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.

Egg Hunt (via Town of Vienna Facebook)

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

Revitalize your ride and wash away the winter snow, salt and grime with a Free Car Wash from Mr Wash in Tysons Corner!

The brand new Tysons Corner location at 8218 Leesburg Pike is loaded with the latest car wash equipment and technology that gives cars the best possible shine.

Mr Wash has been washing cars since 1958. Mr Wash Car Wash offers monthly plans that include Unlimited Car Washes for one low monthly price and access to all 11 Mr Wash locations in Virginia, Maryland and Delaware.

Experience the excellence of Mr Wash for free. Claim your complimentary car wash voucher today!

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

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 [email protected].

I’m not sure how many people research the history of where they live. I know I didn’t. So one day, I decided to search Vienna’s history to see what interesting things I could find about the town.

Here are my most interesting facts, in no particular order:

  1. Founded in 1903, The Vienna Volunteer Fire Department is the oldest in Fairfax County.
  2. In 1881, Howard Money founded a funeral home. Today, Money and King Funeral Home remains Vienna’s oldest continuous business.
  3. In 1890, the 300 person Village became an incorporated Town, which we now refer to as the Town of Vienna. The Town of Vienna’s current population is almost 17,000 people.
  4. Robert Hanssen, a Vienna resident and FBI spy, used Vienna as “dead drop” sites to provide intel to his Russian Handlers. He was arrested in 2001 at Foxstone Park.
  5. Vienna is also home to more positive famous people including New York Times best selling author David Baldacci. Vienna is also the former home of ESPN sportscenter anchor Randy Scott, who loves to give shoutouts to the Vienna Inn.

And a recent, bonus fun fact:

  • The Vienna Inn was featured on a hat worn in Equalizer 3 thanks to former CIA operative and Vienna resident Marc Polymeropoulus who was a technical advisor on the film.

 If you have more fun historical facts to share, please drop them in the comments!

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

Live Fairfax: Meet Aaron Nichols!

Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column alternating with “Exploring Fairfax” that takes a deeper look around Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris and Aaron Nichols of McEnearney Associates Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479 and Aaron at 703-915-9852.

Hello Fairfax!

I’m Aaron Nichols. As a dad, a husband, a youth sports coach, and local Realtor®, I’m so excited for our journey through the communities of Fairfax County with my new video and neighborhood series!

Living and working in this vibrant community has given me a unique perspective on all the amazing places and activities it has to offer. From family-friendly outings perfect for weekends with your kids to must-see spots for when friends and family visit, there are countless hidden gems waiting to be explored in our area.

Join me monthly for “Exploring Fairfax!” Together, we’ll uncover the best of our county, from special events to fantastic dining experiences and everything in between!

Aaron Nichols | www.nichols.realestate | [email protected] | @itsaaronnichols | 703-915-9852 | 1320 Old Chain Bridge Road, McLean, VA

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

Cards, comics, vintage memorabilia… and more!

As recently seen on the PBS show, If You Lived Here… Collector’s World, located in Annandale, is the largest specialty collectibles store in the Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia area. With more than 6,000 square feet, this retail store caters to many different types of collectors.

The owners are on a buying spree and looking to purchase your collection!

Cleaning out the attic, garage or basement? Downsizing? Preparing to move or re-model? No collection is too big or too small.

Bring your items to the pros at Collector’s World for a same day appraisal and on the spot offer. Don’t miss your chance to cash in on your treasures, clear out some space and stop overspending on that storage unit!

Appointments are filling up fast. We offer house calls for extensive collections and special circumstances.

Contact Collector’s World at 571-386-7099 or email [email protected] for more information.

 

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

When it comes to sports that you can play for decades, ice hockey is a surprise contender.

“Unlike running, ice skating is very gentle on your knees,” John Dubeck points out. John has been a passionate hockey player for more than 50 years. “It’s a great way to exercise your legs and maintain your balance,” he says. “And it’s an ideal way to get cardio exercise while your focus is on playing well instead of counting the minutes you’ve been running. You’re typically going fast in two-minute bursts, so you’re also improving your anerobic metabolism.”

Since retiring, he plays twice a week at the popular GeriHatricks senior hockey club in West Laurel, Maryland. Currently in Arlington, John and his wife Susan Hotine are planning a move to The Mather, a Life Plan Community for those 62 and better, in Tysons later this year.

“The Mather seems to offer more than other senior living residences we looked at,” says John. “It feels like we’re essentially moving into a place that’s a high-end hotel.” He adds that they are ready to simplify, and like the idea of no longer worrying about leaking roofs and broken water pipes. “Plus, I’m looking forward to moving into a new community with people who are also new there. That appeals to me.”

John began playing hockey at Cornell University in the late 1960s. He says, “That was during the years that Cornell won the NCAA hockey championship, so everyone on campus played intramural hockey — fraternities, clubs, even the student newspaper had a hockey team. The fact that I already knew how to skate gave me a tremendous advantage.” He quickly caught the hockey bug and, after graduating, has played in several different leagues over the years.

“I used to play wing, but as I got older, I moved to defense,” he says. “When I started playing with the GeriHatricks after I retired, I was one of the younger players, so I was immediately told I was a center.” GeriHatricks games are no-check — meaning little or minimal contact — so injuries are few. Their pick-up games last about two hours. “The range of talent there is extraordinary,” says John.

Needless to say, John strongly recommends hockey as a pastime that ages well. A study in the Journal of Sports Science backs him up, showing that physically active men aged 35 and better who regularly play ice hockey are healthier than those who don’t play. They have significantly lower rates of hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes.

And there is a mental health benefit to hockey as well: John points out that attention and calculation are needed throughout the game. “It’s a moving geometry game; you’re always figuring angles because you can play off the boards, and all players are in motion,” he says.

John will continue to play hockey and pursue other interests after his move to Tysons. “The Mather is close enough to where we are now that we don’t have to change our lifestyle. We can still jump on the Metro to see the Caps play,” he says.

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.

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

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 [email protected].

Waking up to a winter wonderland is something we haven’t had in a long time.

I know my kids were thrilled to go outside yesterday when we just had barely a dusting, so today’s white everything is the perfect chance for snow balls and sledding.

Here are my favorite places to go sledding in Vienna:

  1. Thoreau Middle School: there’s a hill in the back 
  2. Marshall Road Elementary: there’s a small hill in the back
  3. Wolftrap (the theater): The “Bowl” and the “Big Hill” by the main parking lot
  4. Cunningham Park Elementary: there’s a big hill in the back
  5. Meadow Lane Park by the softball field: perfect small hill for little kids

Another trick my kids loved when they were little — get a squirt bottle and fill it with water and food coloring. I called it snow paint and it would occupy them for a while.

Enjoy your snow day!

Together in snow (Photo via Michal Janek on Unsplash)

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

When Robert E. Simon first founded Reston nearly 60 years ago, he envisioned a community that would stress quality of life and allow its residents to live, work, and play in their own community, with common grounds and scenic beauty shared equally.

Today, Reston has grown to be one of the most well-known and respected communities in the region, and the views of Simon’s guiding principles remain.

The work to keep that valued balance between “live, work and play” falls to Reston Association and its Board of Directors, and more than ever, those Directors play a key role in ensuring Reston maintains its character as a community and its commitment to housing, open space and community amenities. If you’ve ever considered leading the way in Reston’s vision for the future, I urge you to consider running for a seat on the Board of Reston Association.

Reston Association’s Board of Directors help guide the policies and procedures for the Association and help to maintain the 50+ miles of paths and trails, the recreational programs and amenities, the facilities and events that RA oversees each year. The RA Board helps develop the Association’s annual budget and looks at capital projects throughout our community.

What’s more, the RA Board of Directors are the ones who help ensure Reston remains a community that is sustainable, inclusive and resilient.

If you value Reston’s history and want to ensure its place in the future, I urge you to consider running for a seat on the Reston Association Board of Directors.

Candidate and eligibility information, as well as application materials, can be found online at reston.org/board-of-directors-election.

A Candidate Information Session will be held Tuesday, January 16. All candidate submissions are due by Friday, January 26 at 5 p.m. Visit our website to learn more.

The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com

×

Subscribe to our mailing list