SLIPPIN' AND SLIDIN' INTO WINTER!€¦ · Tailgate Meet the Cakemakers SLIPPIN' AND SLIDIN' INTO WINTER! 2 233 THANKSGIVING DAY BUFFET $29.95 $12.95 for kids under 12 12PM – 6PM

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A Q U A R T E R L Y P U B L I C A T I O N F R O M T H E F A I R L A K E S L E A G U EWINTER 2019-20

PLUS:News, Sports,Entertainmentand more

Decór to Adore Getting in the Holiday “Spirits”

Topping off the TailgateMeet the Cakemakers

SLIPPIN' AND SLIDIN' INTO WINTER!

www.FairLakes.com2 www.FairLakes.com 3www.FairLakes.com 23

THANKSGIVING DAY BUFFET$29.95

$12.95 for kids under 1212PM – 6PM

SALAD & SOUP STATIONHoliday Salad & Caesar SaladSeasonal Fresh Mixed Fruits

Butternut Squash SoupDinner Rolls with Butter

SEAFOODPeel & Eat Wild Caught Shrimp

Atlantic Smoked Salmon with Cream Cheese & Capers

HOT STATIONGreen Bean Casserole / Raisin & Nut Rice

Candied Sweet PotatoesGrilled Mixed Vegetables / Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Traditional Stuffing / Mac & Cheese BBQ Chicken Wings

CARVING STATIONClassic Roasted Turkey w/ Cranberry Sauce and Turkey Gravy

Oven Roast Beef with Horseradish Cream Holiday Ham

DESSERTSHomemade Carrot Cake / Pumpkin Pie

Homemade Chocolate Cake / Raisin Bread Pudding

Reservations are limited!Please, call us today!703-502-8108November 28, 2019

Reservations are limited!

You’re amazing.We should talk.

ChristmasF E S T I V A L

December 7, 4:30-6:30Chick-fil-A Fair Lakes

www.FairLakes.com 5www.FairLakes.com4

FeaturesHoliday Events ............................................... 8That’s A Wrap! ............................................. 29

DepartmentsLetter from The League ............................. 5News from the View.................................... 6Faces in Fair Lakes ..................................... 12Tending the Trends .................................. 14Directory ........................................................ 18The Chef Suggests .................................... 20Home & Garden ......................................... 22Neighborhood Watch ............................. 26Health & Fitness ......................................... 24

A V I E W F R O M F A I R L A K E S

A View from Fair Lakes is published quarterly by

the Fair Lakes League. Established in 1984,

the League serves to preserve and support the

619-acre Fair Lakes Community and its many

amenities, including the lakes, landscapes,

hiking trails, signage and community common

areas. League activities include sports teams and

tournaments, special events, community fund-

raising and a complimentary weekday shuttle to

and from the Vienna Metro station for residents

and employees of Fair Lakes.

Fair Lakes League offices are located at

12500 Fair Lakes Circle, Suite 400

Fairfax, Virginia, 22033

Visit us at www.fairlakes.com

For information on advertising opportunities, contact [email protected].

www.FairLakes.com6 www.FairLakes.com 7

A Q U A R T E R L Y P U B L I C A T I O N F R O M T H E F A I R L A K E S L E A G U E

Dear Fair Lakes League Members and Friends,

As the holidays head our way, we are happy to look back to past events of a happy year, and look forward to exciting new things ahead.

True to our ways, we hope to help make the holidays a little easier and a little happier with some great gift suggestions, fun family events to consider, decorating ideas, and a delicious recipe for a holiday tradition. Look for some super suggestions for gifts for the sports fans in the family in our Tending the Trends column on page 14. Fairfax shimmers and sparkles with holiday light shows, Santa sightings, singalongs, and menorah lightings. Look for our top suggestions on page 10. Speaking of shimmers and sparkles, we have some great suggestions for your own outdoor home holiday décor on page 22.

When the holidays come to a close, the dreaded long and dreary days of winter are upon us. We all know what cabin fever can do to one, when day after day of damp and frigid temperatures keep us closeted inside. We have just the thing to counter that misery – indoor sports! Fairfax is rife with indoor activities to keep the family active, engaged, and on good terms. Check out our suggestions on page 24.

We are happy to highlight some wonderful folks in our community. Mary Campbell brought the beautiful volunteer organization Cakes4Kids to Fairfax two years ago and it has become a source for happiness for underserved children. We celebrate her and her organization on page 12. The Fair Lakes Condos and their board members participated in the National Night Out event in August of this year, noted on page 26, and got some national Twitter coverage! And lastly, we take a fond look back at the events we sponsored and enjoyed here at the League in 2019.

We wish all our League members and friends the happiest of holidays and best wishes for the new year.

Sincerely,The League

If you’re interested in advertising in A View from Fair Lakes, or have tips for story ideas, please email [email protected].

HOLIDAYGIFTSPECIALS!

Give the Gift of Health this Holiday Season!

Sign up for a FreeIntro Class!

CLUB PILATES FAIR LAKES703.646.1705

clubpilates.com/fairlakes4467 Market Commons Drive, Fairfax, VA 22033

EVERYBODY NEEDS PILATES

Move Better. Feel Better. Live Better.

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

www.FairLakes.com 9

Around Fair Lakes...

The INOVA Blood Drive Stay tuned to fairlakes.com and/or the Fair Lakes League Facebook page for sign-up details as the date draws near.Monday, December 2, 2019 12500 Fair Lakes Circle8:30 am to 1:00 pm

For Literature LoversThe Fair Lakes Book Club will gather for our final meeting of 2019 December

18th at 6pm at Blue Iguana. We look forward to seeing our regulars and hope to welcome some new faces as we discuss Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate, and enjoy good food and libations amid the spirited seasonal décor of our favorite watering hole.

Nailed It!The Nail Bar is a partnership between DSW and W Nail Bar. It offers manicures, pedicures and

waxing, with services starting at $29, and all services are eligible to earn DSW points. The W Nail Bar is a new concept and it is receiving rave reviews for its cleanliness, its energy and its friendly professional service. Get a mani-pedi for yourself and a gift card for your friend for the holidays!

Pet Vet Care Right at Your Fingertips

Peace of mind comes with knowing that you are proactively monitoring the health and wellness of your precious pets. And now it is easier than ever to do so with the Banfield Pet Hospital at PetSmart in Fair Lakes Center. Prevention and Wellness plans include vaccinations, dental care, parasite control, nutrition and behavior modification.

Get Ready to PartyBlue Iguana has always known how to celebrate, and December brings all

the more reason. Of course, there is December 31st, New Year’s Eve, always an exceedingly eventful evening at the Iguana. Even more eventful, Blue Iguana celebrates its 25th Anniversary of catering to the culinary, cocktail and communal requisites of the Fair Lakes, and greater Fairfax community. Stay tuned to Fairlakes.com, our Facebook page, or blueiguanafairfax.com for details on date and time.

Instagram: thew

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Connect with Fair Lakes! @FairLakesLeagueStay informed of all the cool things happening in your neighborhood by following us on Facebook and Twitter. Like us for info on store promotions, community news, and – best of all – a chance to win awesome prizes. Everywhere we are @fairlakesleague.

8

N E W S F R O M T H E V I E W

If you or your organization has any news or upcoming event that may be of interest to members of the Fair Lakes community,

please contact us at: [email protected].

N E W S F R O M T H E V I E W

www.FairLakes.com

Holidays at Chick-fil-A Story times, craft making events, breakfast with Santa … check out page 4 for details on all these family-fun events.

Greetings Soon to be in Order!Coming soon to Fair Lakes Center… Banner’s Hallmark Shop! Greeting cards, gifts, gift wrap, Keepsake ornaments and more make Banner’s the perfect store for any special – or everyday – occasion. Meet their kind and caring staff who will help you celebrate life events large and small.

Fairfax County Public Schools Holiday Schedule

Schools will be closed for the THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY

November 27th – November 29th.

Schools will be closed for WINTER BREAK

December 23rd – January 3rd.

www.FairLakes.comwww.FairLakes.com 1110

Holiday EventsEven more fun can be found elsewhere in Northern Virginia.

Our friends to the north in Reston put on some special events of their own, including a holiday parade and Santa Claus meetups. They also have the Gingerbread Mile, a mile run for children from ages 4 to 14 to partake. All participants get a special t-shirt and ribbon for finishing the race!

Stay tuned to www.prraces.com/gingerbread/ for updates.

Just a bit up north towards DC you can find some great fun to be had in Old Town Alexandria. They will have all your traditional events like tree lightings and caroling. What makes Alexandria really special during the holidays is their beautiful Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. Within Alexandria historic waterfront you will find dozens of brilliantly lit boats cruising down the Potomac River. It really is a special sight.

Alexandria Tree Lighting

November 29, 6pm • 301 King Street

Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights

December 7th • Old Town Alexandria Waterfront

And if you are a history buff and willing to make the trek, you won’t want to miss the Christmas celebrations that take place at Mount Vernon. Find out what Christmas was like for our Founding Fathers as Mount Vernon celebrates the holidays with tours of the Washington’s Christmas dinner, chocolate making demonstrations, and fireworks overlooking the Potomac!

Holiday events at Mount Vernon

Ongoing November 29 to December 31.

Events can be found all over the holiday landscape, but the best will always be right around the corner here in Fairfax!

The Holidays are at their best when we get together and celebrate with the people we love. They also serve as a great opportunity to get out and celebrate with our neighbors here in Fair Lakes and beyond. Thankfully, our home base is a fantastic place to find all kinds of holiday celebrations in which the entire family can take part and we found wonderful ways to celebrate outside of the cozy confines of our homes. Whether it is a Christmas parade, or a communal lighting of the menorah, we here at the View magazine have done some sleuthing to help you find where to hang your holiday bonnet this season.

Fairfax Festival of Lights and CarolsCome and celebrate with the rest Fairfax! The Fairfax Festival of

Lights and Carols will be rockin’ with live holiday music and all of your favorite holiday treats to indulge in, like smores, hot cider, and candy canes. The festival will culminate in a ceremonial Tree Lighting at 5:30pm.

December 7th from 2pm to 7pm • Old Town Square, 10415 North Street

Fairfax Lunch with SantaYou will also be able to give your children the chance to give

Santa their wish lists in person! Jolly Saint Nick will be available for pictures and fun at Old Town Hall. Tickets for this event are a must so make sure to grab ‘em before they’re gone!

December 14, 11am, 12pm, and 1pm • Old Town Hall, 3999 University Drive

Fairfax Holiday MarketThe Fairfax Holiday Market is a holiday weekend delight. It offers

everything you desire this season, with entertainment, amusements, plenty of treats to fill tummies big and small, and craft vendors where gifts can be found for all.

First three weekends of December from 5-8pm on Fridays, 12-6pm on Saturdays, and 12-4pm on Sundays. • Old Town Square, 10415 North StreetInformation and tickets for all of the Fairfax events above can be found at www.fairfaxva.gov/government/parks-recreation/special-events/festival-of-lights-and-carols


Imagine growing up never having a birthday cake. Seems kind of crazy, doesn’t it? Most of us celebrated our

childhood birthdays with some kind of baked confection. But there are many children who will never receive a single birthday cake in their lives. A nonprofit called Cake4Kids is helping to change that. Cake4Kids makes birthday cake dreams come true for disadvantaged youth in Fairfax County. They partner with organizations serving at-risk and under-served youth including the Fairfax Department of Child and Family Services, 4 Shelter House, homeless and domestic violence shelters throughout the county, community centers, and Western Fairfax Christian Ministries, to name a few. The organization was founded in 2010 in California, where it is active in ten counties and is supported by more than 700 volunteers. It found its way to Fairfax

through the inquisitive and amazing Mary Campbell, who was investigating opportunities for applying her talents when her children were less needful of them. She came upon the website grownandflown.com – which every parent needs to check out! – and learned about Cakes4Kids. Mary emailed the organization

and two years later, she is the Fairfax Ambassador to Cakes4Kids. Mary and her family moved here when her husband retired from the Navy after serving for more than 25 years. She has been happily married for 23 years and has two sons, a sophomore at Boston University, and a sophomore at Oakton High School. And she has an awesome dog named Fenway. (We’re guessing there’s some

baseball love in this family.) Cake4Kids connects with its recipients through social workers or agency caseworkers, who learn the preferred flavors and themes for a child’s desired

birthday cake. Then it finds a volunteer to bake, decorate and deliver that cake. Volunteers must be at least 18-years-old (or 16, if with a parent volunteer), be a good baker (not necessarily pro-level, but decent with proficient decorating skills) and be able to deliver the decorated cake to a Cake4Kids agency during a specified time window. Caseworkers from partner agencies go into the Cakes4Kids portal and enter the specifics about their client’s cake preferences, dates, allergies, and any other particulars. The volunteer bakers review the information and respond with interest and availability, and matches are made. Mary says that she gets all kids of special cake requests … a Hulk cake with a fist punching from the top of the cake … a unicorn cake with a magic horn … a baked bean cake ??? Yes, a baked bean cake. Volunteer bakers deliver their precious cargo to the designated partner agency, which then delivers the treasure to the birthday celebrant. Bakers never meet the recipients, but always receive a thank you from the Cakes4Kids team, and often a note from the family and child as well. Mary is delighted with the success of the Fairfax chapter of Cakes4Kids. Her stable of bakers started out with a handful of friends. Word spread through networking and Facebook and has now grown to over 60 volunteers.

Cakes4Kids.org

HERE ARE A FEW OF THE SPECIAL THANK YOU NOTES RECEIVED FROM

CAKES4KIDS RECIPIENTS …

She loved the cake!! She was very excited for the cake.

She had a rough month and this really brightened up her week. She shared it with her foster family and with friends at school the next day. The cake was so cute too! It was the perfect fit for her.

Thank you for the cake!

“In the past birthday cakes were not always an option as we were homeless,

could not afford a cake or had [no] place to bake one. When I do get a cake I make sure to eat it slowly and savor every bite

so that the memory will stay with me. This birthday cake definitely will.

Thank you again for all that you do.”

“My heart cannot express how deeply touched I am that someone who

does not know me or my grandchild was willing to go out of their way to

make his birthday so special. To you it may have been a set of

cupcakes that took a couple of hours to bake and decorate but to my

grandson and I, this made him feel special and loved.”

F A C E S I N F A I R L A K E SF A C E S I N F A I R L A K E S

Mary Campbell, Ambassador to Cakes4Kids

Emma Marshall (left) of the Fairfax Foster Care and Adoption Program receives the very first Cake4Kids cake from Mary Campbell.

The Nats, the Redskins, the Caps, the Wizards … Washington DC area teams have fans most loyal and true, who love to tailgate. What better way to outfit your loved ones this holiday season than with a tailgate make-over?

www.FairLakes.com

When tailgating, the food remains king. It’s all about the ribs, wings,

burgers and dogs on a crisp Sunday afternoon. Here in Fair Lakes, you can make sure the food you serve at your tailgate will receive top marks. The name of the game is portability and ease when cooking at a tailgate, and of course Dick’s Sporting Goods in Fair Lakes offers some of the best tailgating tools in town. With a litany of choices, you can get something that fits your cooking style. If charcoal is your bag, the Lodge Sportsman’s Grill is a great option. If gas gets you where you want to go, Cuisinart offers some fantastic portable gas grills. And if you look to the future for your cooking wares, make sure to check out the Camp Chef Deluxe Grill Box, which uses infared technology to cook your foods.

Let’s face it though, the food at tailgates can only get you so far. You need to

keep yourself and your friends entertained while waiting for the game to start. Whether you are a traditionalist who finds comfort in the form of a cornhole beanbag or a new wave tailgater who is looking for something a little more modern in his pre-game proceedings, shops like Kohl’s can deliver what you

need. Make sure to check out the East Market staple for all kinds

of games like cornhole, ladder toss, bocce, and frisbees.

14 www.FairLakes.com 15

T E N D I N G T H E T R E N D S T E N D I N G T H E T R E N D S

With all the food and fun going on

at your tailgate there’s only one thing you are going to need to make it a must-visit in the parking lot, and that’s comfort. Tailgating can take place anywhere, and it’s up to you to make sure it’s as enjoyable as watching the game on your comfiest living room couch. Your local Fair Lakes Walmart offers all the best when it comes to car-side comfort. Tents can be found in all shapes and sizes, whether you need something simple to keep cover from sunshine or something decked out to keep out the harshest pre-game weather. Chairs and couches can be found in all shapes and sizes, whether you want a simple lawn chair or a padded personal recliner.

And last but certainly not least, every tailgate needs music. What kind of

game would it be without a little bit of rock n’ roll to pump up the crowd shuffling into the stadium. Bluetooth Speakers, weather and water proof abound around Fair Lakes. Best Buy is a great option when it comes to tailgate tunes. If you want something small that can fit

in any purse or backpack, you can grab something like the JBL Clip 3, or the Bose Soundlink. If you want your tunes to truly blast though, you can check out something a little heavier duty like the ION Audio

Sport Tailgate speaker, or the iLive Tailgate speaker.

These guys are built to last loud and long.

Tailgater’s top tech


703-222-7661 | alexandredeparis.com

Alexandre de Paris Beauty Spa Centre is an exceptional

Hair Salon and Spa located in Fairfax, Virginia, offering a

wide range of services including hair design, balayage,

haircutting, hair highlighting, hair coloring, facials,

permanent cosmetics, nail services, massage, skin and

body treatments.

Alexandre de Paris signature hair care collection available on amazon and our online store.

18 Visit www.fairlakes.com for additional information about these businesses. Visit www.fairlakes.com for additional information about these businesses. 19

Fair Lakes CenterMass MerchandisersAldi .......................................................... 855-955-2534 BJ’s Wholesale Club ...................................803-0200Target ...............................................................449-7100Walmart...........................................................631-9450

Electronics, Home FurnishingsandThat! ..........................................................272-4316Best Buy ..........................................................631-3332Kirkland’s ........................................................222-1826World Market ................................................502-9777

Apparel and Shoes5.11 Tactical ......................................... 571-351-3056DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse .........815-5425Lane Bryant ...................................................818-3749Torrid ................................................................222-0397

JewelryJared the Galleria of Jewelry ................818-8218

PetsPetSmart .........................................................802-1027

Sporting Goods & HobbyGolf Galaxy ....................................................563-3960Michaels ..........................................................449-1846Premium Spa & Billiards ..........................968-2404

SpiritsVirginia ABC ..................................................803-0049

GiftsBanner’s Hallmark ............................... Coming Soon

ServicesAllstate .............................................................659-3432AT&T ..................................................................475-5635Exxon ................................................................802-0178Fair Center Cleaners ..................................502-1031Verizon Wireless ..........................................502-7900

Restaurants and Fast FoodApplebee’s .....................................................802-9855Bagel Buddies ..............................................631-8700Burger King ...................................................802-0312Cantina D’Italia ............................................631-2752Chipotle Mexican Grill .............................222-1117Guapo’s Mexican Restaurant ................818-0022Jason’s Deli ....................................................449-0924Noodles & Co ...............................................818-3834Olive Garden .................................................631-4840Red Pepper ....................................................502-9407Red Robin.......................................................502-0334Sakura Japanese Steakhouse ...............802-5800Starbucks ........................................................502-7800Subway ............................................................222-2900Tony’s NY Pizza ............................................502-0808Tsunami Sushi ..............................................449-8404Wendy’s ...........................................................968-0266

Health & BeautyEuropean Wax Center ..............................539-8002Fair Lakes Dental.........................................222-1230GNC ...................................................................802-9347Hair Cuttery ...................................................830-8344Plaza Nail ........................................................378-6245Sally Beauty Supply ...................................222-0950Ulta Beauty ....................................................222-6060W Nail Bar, DSW...........................................815-5425

The Shops at Fair LakesSpecialty Retail & ServicesCVS ....................................................................322-9557Dynamic Kick ................................................261-6138Fair Lakes Cleaners ....................................818-06587-11 ...................................................................378-2141OMG! My Nails .............................................818-0090Sandy Spring Bank .....................................631-6411

Restaurants & DiningBlue Iguana ...................................................502-8108Carpool ............................................................222-7665China Taste ....................................................802-5888Dunkin’ Donuts/ Baskin Robbins ........818-7480Jersey Mike’s Subs ......................................502-3036Joe’s Crab Shack ..........................................968-2601McDonald’s....................................................968-3620Paisano’s ..........................................................266-1400Pizza Hut .................................................... 222-5700

Health & BeautyAlexandre de Paris Beauty Spa Centre .....................................................222-7661

Hotel & HospitalityMarriott Residence Inn ............................266-4900

Fair Lakes BusinessesKeller Williams Realty ...............................222-3300

Hotel & HospitalityHyatt Fairfax at Fair Lakes .......................818-1234NoVa Bar & Grill ...........................................818-1234(Hyatt Fairfax at Fair Lakes)

Restaurants, Dining & CateringChick-fil-A .......................................................222-1096Fair Lakes Deli ..............................................818-1512Taco Bell ..........................................................449-8990

Specialty Retail & ServicesFairlakes Chesterbrook Academy .......803-7920

East Market at Fair LakesGrocery & DiningPei Wei Asian Diner ...................................803-4466Starbucks ........................................................865-7071Whole Foods Market ................................222-2058

Health & BeautyClub Piates .....................................................646-1705East Market Dental .................................. 865-4488Massage Envy...............................................322-9797Modern Optometry ..................................272-8300Organic Nails ................................................865-6666Reflections of You Salon .........................272-8181 UFC Gym ........................................................376-8586

Specialty Retail & ServicesDick’s Sporting Goods .............................803-0300Fairlakes Chesterbrook Pre-School ....803-7920Kohl’s ................................................................802-8063Radiance Med Spa .....................................222-0173The UPS Store ..............................................818-0977UBreakIFix .......................................................828-6442

Apartment LivingArbors at Fair Lakes ...................................631-7373Camden Fair Lakes .....................................222-3086eaves Fair Lakes ...........................................818-2332The Julian .......................................................631-1013Windsor at Fair Lakes ................................631-0736

Fair Lakes CommunitiesEast Market at Fair Lakes CondosElan CondominiumsFair Lakes CondominiumsFair Lakes Square TownhomesFair Lakes TownhomesGates of Fair LakesGreens at Fair Lakes TownhomesNorth Lake TownhomesStonecroft CondominiumsWater’s EdgeWillow OaksNote: All area codes are 703 unless otherwise specified.


T H E C H E F S U G G E S T S

Eggnog purists counter those who don’t like the holiday draught simply haven’t experienced the real thing. Cardboard cartons of sugar-laced versions simply can’t hold a candle to the homemade goodness of the real thing. Since eggnog has earned its place in history – even scoring a riot namesake – let’s give it the honor it deserves and make up a batch of the real deal.

INGREDIENTS4 egg yolks1/3 cup sugar, plus 1 tablespoon1 pint whole milk1 cup heavy cream3 ounces bourbon1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg4 egg whites*

DIRECTIONS1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the

egg yolks until they lighten in color. Gradually add the 1/3 cup sugar and continue to beat until it is completely dissolved. Add the milk, cream, bourbon and nutmeg and stir to combine.

2. Place the egg whites in the bowl of a stand mixer and beat to soft peaks. With the mixer still running gradually add the 1 tablespoon of sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.

3. Whisk the egg whites into the mixture. Chill and serve.

Cook's Note: For cooked eggnog, follow procedure below.1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the

egg yolks until they lighten in color. Gradually add the 1/3 cup sugar and continue to beat until it is completely dissolved. Set aside.

2. In a medium saucepan, over high heat, combine the milk, heavy cream and nutmeg and bring just to a boil, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat and gradually temper the hot mixture into the egg and sugar mixture. Then return everything to the pot and cook until the mixture reaches 160 degrees F. Remove from the heat, stir in the bourbon, pour into a medium mixing bowl, and set in the refrigerator to chill.

3. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the egg whites to soft peaks. With the mixer running gradually add the 1 tablespoon of sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. Whisk the egg whites into the chilled mixture.

T H E C H E F S U G G E S T S

There are those who love eggnog, and those who hate eggnog,

and very few who fall in between. But wherever you fall, the holidays are here so eggnog is everywhere! There are a few different takes on the eggnog origin story, but most culinary historians agree that it had its start in medieval times as a “posset” – a beverage made of hot milk with ale or wine and sweetened with spices. As time went on, monks are said to have thrown eggs into the mix, along with figs, which, at some point, worked their way out of the concoction. It is certain that posset was more popular among the well-to-do, as milk, eggs and spirits were quite pricey back in the day. Eggnog slowly lost its appeal in Europe as many in the states developed quite a thirst for it. Eggnog was in such demand that it even caused a riot! The year was 1826, the place was the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, and the date was December 24th, Christmas Eve. Teetotalling Academy Superintendent Sylvanus Thayer revoked

the privilege of a celebratory holiday tot and scores of contrary cadets declared that Thayer’s ruling called for a party. They secured copious amounts of whiskey from a local tavern and whisked up a potent eggnog punch. Soon enough, scores of inebriated cadets became excessively rambunctious, breaking windows,

smashing furniture and throwing firewood. Troops were called to quell the uprising and 70 students were arrested, with 20 facing court martial. The event was forever known as the Eggnog Riot.

Painting of Superintendent Sylvanus Thayer, inadvertent instigator of the Eggnog Riot.

Nog, Nog … Who’s There?Eggnog!


H O M E & G A R D E N

Inflatable Santas. Reindeer on rooftops. Twinkling trees. Giant Menorahs.

Garland-bedecked doorframes. These and other cheery garnishments can be seen across the yards and balconies among the neighborhoods of Fair Lakes. And each year it seems that bevy of brightness is making its debut earlier and earlier in the year. While these embellishments are indeed joyful, it is interesting to note that there is science behind that joy. Many people look forward to the holidays more than any other time in the year. In a world of stress and anxiety, folks like to connect to moments and memories that make them happy, and holiday

decorations evoke strong feelings from childhood. Decorations are a pathway to those magical childhood memories, so the sooner

the wreathes are hung in the window, the longer the sweet feelings of nostalgia will last. Research has plenty of positive

things to say about getting into the holiday spirit sooner rather than

later, too. A 1989 study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology concluded that people who decorate the exteriors of their houses with garlands, strings of lights, and all other manner of bright, cheerful, and merry holiday decor are seen as friendlier and having "greater sociability" than neighbors who don't decorate. The study authors

Outdoor Décor

H O M E & G A R D E N

noted that the Clark Griswolds of the world “communicate attachment and possibly to integrate themselves into a neighborhood’s social activities.” Speaking of Clark Griswold, holiday lights strung upon the home remain a most popular seasonal décor. They can be simple and elegant white bead lights, or big and bold multi-colored bulbs. A simple and elegant outdoor home look is to line the arches of the house or the roof line with static white bead lights. It communicates as festive without overwhelming. Alternatively, you can go in the opposite

direction with giant outdoor bulbs and ornaments, which definitely communicates as festive, with a good bit of fun. So, we know that decorating is good for us, people are doing it earlier every year, and there are even ways to make the tougher tasks less taxing. Bring on the boughs!! The best places in Fair Lakes for holiday decor, lights and more are Christmas Tree Shops andThat!, Kirklands and World Market. Holiday trimming bargains abound at Target and Walmart. And for those more of a DIY mindset, Michaels is the place for you!

Folks like to connect to moments and memories that make them happy, and decorations are a pathway to

those magical childhood memories.

LOVELY LASERSRegardless of your choice of outdoor illumination, stringing lights can require a good deal of work. And once January comes around, you’ll have to do all that work all over again when it’s time to take the lights down. A relatively recent solution to minimize the effort and maximize the results are laser holiday lights. There are a number of lovely designs, installation is a snap and done in minutes. Simply put the light stand stake in the ground, adjust it to theappropriate height, plug the power cord into an outdoor outlet, stand back and enjoy.


H E A L T H A N D F I T N E S S

Indoor SportPlexes

H E A L T H A N D F I T N E S S

As the cold winter months begin to envelop us, it’s enticing to hibernate with a nice cup of cocoa

while the cold air assaults outside. We all want to snuggle up to a warm fire instead of finding ways to stay active. Everyone knows that gyms are abundant, and can be great places to keep your physique up to par despite the candy canes and eggnog we downed during the holidays. But we’re talking about ways to beat back the cabin fever … opportunities for families to engage with each other with good humor and friendly competition, minus the natural irritability that can accompany too much time together in close quarters. We think a perfectly perfect solution to the necessary letting loose of energy, and engagement with family and friends is to be found at indoor complexes! Need to kick a soccer ball around without it sinking in the snow? Want to spike some volleyballs while miles and miles away from the nearest warm beach? Sportplexes have your back this winter! It has been recommended by the American Heart Association that children over the age of two should be getting around 60 minutes of physical exercise a

day. While that seems simple enough in the warm spring and summer months, during the winter children struggle to find fun in the frigid weather. The American Academy of Pediatrics recently finished a three-year study that found only around 5 percent of children are getting the requisite one hour of exercise a day. With

children, and also with adults, it can be hard to find enjoyment in the common gym rigors like running on a treadmill or lifting weights.

Here are some indoor facilities where you can find healthy and active fun right here in your backyard of Northern Virginia!

Club Run RECenter4630 Stonecroft Blvd Chantilly, VA 20151

If you are still itching for that summer fun, make sure to swing by the Club Run RECenter just a few minutes up north. Here you can find all your aquatic desires met with indoor pools for both exercise and leisure, giving you the opportunity to get some laps in while the kids can splash and slide! You can also find party opportunities with room rentals if that special someone wants a splish-splash birthday celebration.

Dynamic Kick12713 Shoppes LaneFair Lakes

Dynamic Kick is destined to bring fitness, confidence and serenity to Fair Lakes patrons of all ages. There is a taekwondo class for everyone at Dynamic Kick. Adult programs teach traditional martial arts techniques that offer great self-defense strategies, increase fitness and body strength, offer a healthy means of stress relief, and promote an overall sense of well-being. Family taekwondo classes are a fabulous way for families to share a positive activity together. The family class experience teaches cooperation with one another and increases respect and appreciation among family members. The Pink Dragon program is for ladies only and is a great de-stressor from work and family demands. Dynamic Kick classes for kids are taught on matted workout areas by master certified instructors, fully versed in CPR and first aid. Instructors emphasize discipline, self-control, patience, and respect for all the students. And a graduated belt program brings out a child’s healthy competitive spirit. Little ones age 3 – 5 can participate in the Dream Tiger classes that offer a little more fun in their instruction.

Fairfax Sportsplex6800 Commercial DrSpringfield, VA 22151

Our city’s local Sportsplex is a dream come true for any Soccer and Volleyball enthusiast in the area. The area’s largest indoor sports complex boasts over an acre of sports ground, with multiple soccer fields and volleyball nets to play on. There are a multitude of leagues to join, like Men’s and Women’s leagues, youth leagues, and co-ed leagues. The facility also offers rental space if you’d like to throw a party or play your own games with a group of friends.

FXA Sports14100 Parke Long Ct #BChantilly, VA 20151

Here’s something a little different from the rest. If you are an adult looking for a way to enjoy some athletic competition, look no further than FXA Sports. This organization puts sports leagues together for adults to compete without the struggle of finding others to compete with and against. They have leagues that run year-round, including the cold winter months, for all kinds of sports including football, basketball, and ultimate frisbee! If you are someone who’s itching to compete, look no further than FXA Sports.

Children struggle to find fun in the frigid weather.

Sportplexes have your back this winter!

Indoor SportPlexes are a way to beat back cabin fever … opportunities for families to engage with each other with good humor and friendly competition


Each year, on the first Tuesday evening in August, people

throughout the U.S. gather with first responders in recognition of National Night Out. This community-building and crime-prevention event enables residents to meet and mingle with their local police officers and firefighters, as well as their own neighbors. Associa is a national sponsor of this community-building event, and its subsidiary, Select Community Services is the property management company serving the Fair Lakes Condominiums. At the 156-unit Fair Lakes Condos, residents gathered at the park of Fair Crest Court for food, fun and camaraderie. “It’s our third year doing this,” said Debbie Ansman. “We hope to continue to expand it and maybe partner with another community next year.” She said it’s important for people to come out and talk to members of the police and fire departments. “If the residents have any questions about crime

in the neighborhood, or safety, it’s a good way for them to get to know their public safety providers.” said Ansman. “And the kids get to climb on the fire trucks and meet police officers and not be afraid of them.”

The Fair Lakes Condo Association Board put on the event. Attendees munched on chicken nuggets from Chick-fil-A, cookies and chips, and a table full

of giveaways included a child protection ID kit. The Fair Lakes Condo Tweet made the National Night Out Twitter feed and there was much excitement as a result! “We have a

great group of people here, and they’re what make it a special community,” said Property Manager Michelle Johnson. “There is a good mix of families and singles. And it’s a really nice location as well, with mature trees, besides being so close to all the amenities in Fair Lakes. It’s kind of an oasis.” Abdullah Hamidaddin agreed. “I’ve lived here three years, and I just love the local area and all the amenities around us”

N E I G H B O R H O O D W A T C H

Fair Lakes Condos and Michelle Johnson

he said. “We’re within five minutes driving distance of shopping centers, grocery stores and all the dining options of the Fair Lakes Shopping Center and the Fairfax Towne Center.” “We’re also close to I-66 and have a nice mix of quiet and activities,” he continued. As for National Night Out, he called it “A great opportunity to get to know your community and make a connection with your local police and fire departments.”

Michelle concurs. She has been managing the property since 2017, and has been part of each Night Out event. She enjoys her job because it gives her the opportunity to interact with so many different people every day. While Michelle doesn’t live on site, she lives in Fairfax County and feels a close connection to the community. When not working, Michelle enjoys tennis, working out, reading, and time with family and friends.

N E I G H B O R H O O D W A T C H

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT “A great opportunity to get to know your community and make

a connection with your local police and fire departments.”

Fair Lakes Condos residents gathered at the park of Fair Crest Court for food, fun and camaraderie.

FAIR LAKES CLOSES OUT another decade of community goodwill, engagement, support, philanthropy and fun. Over the

years, those who live, work, and play in our locale have golfed for charity, competed in volleyball competitions, donated to blood drives, shared in Spring Fests of family fun,

gathered for book clubs and libations, and been good neighbors to one and all.

We take a quick look back at the highlights of 2019.


Don’t even leave your neighborhood! This is truly the ultimate in shopping convenience, with major retailers such as Target, Wal-Mart, BJ’s Wholesale, DSW, and Best Buy, as well as a wide array of dining options.

Spring FestA bit of brisk air and some cloudy skies did not dampen the delightful May day for 2019’s Spring Fest. Thousands of folks made their way to the carnival of entertainments and amusements featuring favorite team mascots, cherished

characters – including Paw Patrol favorites – face painters, and balloon twisters. And for the first time, the Spring Fest Touch-a-Truck event included a Monster truck and a professional race car! Another highlight of the 2019 event were some special guests from the Fairfax County’s Sheriff’s office. Deputies and volunteer reserve deputies created child ID cards. The officers photographed, fingerprinted and measured the children, and produced a plastic ID card for parents’ safekeeping. For families in the community, the cards can be the key to helping law enforcement find a child who might go missing. And for the children, the process of producing the cards was a fun and positive interaction with law enforcement officials.

Great things ahead for

Fair Lakes in 2020!

30 www.FairLakes.comwww.FairLakes.com 31

VolleyballAnother smashing season in the sand was had by the Fair Lakes spikers, blockers, bumpers and stuffers.

A League First Place TEAM CRUSH Team members (not featured in order) Andrew Zeswitz, Laura Ponder, Darryl Austin, David DelAguila, Amy Moore, Brandon Green, Alex Hopkins, Cathy Lue Chee Lip, Cynthia Sanchez, Issamary Muth, Jim Muth, Corey Fritz, Andrew Han, Brian Fon, Jeff Ponder, Dianne Molina, Christine Kanagaki

A League Second Place TEAM FLOAT-U Team members (not featured in order) Nikkisha Mabrey, Jackson Jadryev, Jack Jadryev, Julia Herr, Jeff Himm, Newton Himm, Maxwell Himm, Liz Persell

B League First Place TEAM PIT POSSES Team members (not featured in order) Scott Heflin, Carrie Halpern, Mike Halpern, Christy Ryder, Christian Ryder, Cecilia Alquinta, Lindsay Phillips, Justin Phillips, Theodore Mayo, Alex Alquinta, Luis Salcedo, Amy Salcedo

B League Second Place TEAM ENTER SANDMANTeam members (not featured in order) Joe Pitera, Aaron Gosney, Katherine Gosney, Paul Lawrence, Sherry Lawrence, Ted Loht, Sara Sims, Ralph Duane, Ryan Brookes, Joseph Hurley, Jason Lawrence, Stephanie Lawrence, Rachel Doherty.

Dollars for Fair Lakes ScholarsImpressive intellects and generous spirits again stand out in the annual Dollars for Fair Lakes Scholars competition. The 2019 scholarship awardees were feted on a beautiful June evening with their family and friends and Fair Lakes

League members gathered on the patio in front of the fountain lake. Peterson Cos. Vice President Kelly Price was on hand to deliver the scholarship prizes and warm words of congratulations to competition winners Megan Mastropaolo, Lindsay Jones, and Christopher Cadwell. (pictured left to right)

Book ClubLovers of literature find solace in the company of one another, as they share insight and wisdom from recent readings in the warm and welcoming ambiance of

Blue Iguana. What started as a handful of souls interested in adult conversation and growing friendships has grown into a popular bi-monthly social event with spirited discussions, good food and lovely libations. The Fair Lakes Book Club events are never dull, and the reading selections are almost always of universal approval and appeal. If you haven’t attended a meeting yet, you’ll want to in the future. Here is a sample of our selections from the past few years …Hillbilly Elegy, A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis by J.D. Vance, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night- Time by Mark Haddon, Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens, The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah.

It’s all Relative over the Holidays!Let the Residence Inn Fair Lakes take care of your

friends and family while visiting during the holiday season!

November 22, 2019 - January 31, 2020 your friends and family can enjoy our special local neighborhood rate.

For individual reservations please visit marriott.com/IADFL, enter corporate code: A3P or call the hotel directly at (703) 266-4900 requesting the neighborhood rate.

RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT®

FAIR LAKES FAIRFAX12815 Fair Lakes Parkway | Fairfax, VA USA 22033

T 7032664900 | Marriott.com/IADFLRates are per room, per night, based on availability, not available for groups of 10 or more rooms.

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SLIPPIN' AND SLIDIN' INTO WINTER!€¦ · Tailgate Meet the Cakemakers SLIPPIN' AND SLIDIN' INTO WINTER! 2 233 THANKSGIVING DAY BUFFET $29.95 $12.95 for kids under 12 12PM – 6PM