Tag: health
Affordable housing project to include space for nonprofits
An affordable housing project coming to Columbia Pike in Bailey’s Crossroads will include space for two local nonprofits, Neighborhood Health and Second Story. The five-story building will have around 160 apartments – mostly two and three-bedroom units – along with community space reserved for organizations that serve area residents. It will be located on the … Continued
Third measles case reported in Northern Virginia in 2026
There has been a third measles case in Northern Virginia so far in 2026. The patient is a preschool-age child (0-4 years old) who recently traveled internationally, the Virginia Department of Health reported on Jan. 21. People who have been at these locations might have been exposed to the child with measles: This case is … Continued
Health & Wellness: One word to a more intentional way to step into 2026
By Rachel Martin It’s that time of year when most of us are scrambling for Christmas presents, searching for holiday recipes, and making sure all the necessary documents are submitted before year’s end. It can be a chaotic season – and not exactly the time you’d expect to start thinking about 2026. But as the … Continued
Anti-vape law is a buzz kill for retailers
A new law enacted by the Virginia General Assembly that restricts the sale of vape products is already claiming at least one casualty; the House of Vape in the Eastgate Shopping Center in Annandale is expected to close by the end of the year. The Virginia Code prohibits the sale, distribution, or resale of any … Continued
Health & Wellness: Letting go and finding health in the rhythm of fall
By Rachel Martin  The crumbling sound of leaves plastering under my feet as I go on my daily walk is one of my favorite soothing sounds. It’s nature’s way of whispering that fall has arrived. The clear blue skies, the crisp 50-60-degree air, and the golden light filtering through the trees feel like a deep … Continued
Free dental procedures offered for veterans
Annandale Smiles, a dental practice on Ravensworth Road in central Annandale, is offering a free dental procedure to U.S. military veterans on Friday, Nov. 7. “This Veterans Day, we’re proud to give back to those who’ve served our country,” says Smiles. “This is our way of saying thank you for your service and dedication.” Complimentary … Continued
Music is the key to addiction recovery
Recovery Unplugged, a new addiction treatment center in Seven Corners, uses music as a catalyst to help people change their lives. The center offers holistic treatment for mental and behavioral health, as well as detox for addiction, said Riley Osborne, the company’s chief growth officer, at an open house on Sept. 30. Recovery Unplugged … Continued
Health & Wellness: World-class boxing in Annandale
By Rachel Martin When Eric Zimmerman walks into his boxing gym in Annandale, he brings with him global experience, resilience, and a vision for community transformation. Zimmerman opened Z’s Boxing Gym in late 2024 at 4119 John Marr Drive in Annandale. Earlier this year, Zimmerman spent three months coaching Team USA at two world-class tournaments … Continued
Whitson and Walkinshaw disagree on everything
Congressional candidates James Walkinshaw (D) and Stewart Whitson (R) clashed on Medicaid cuts, immigration, tariffs, crime, and much more in an online forum hosted by the League of Women Voters on Aug. 18. The candidates are vying in a special election on Sept. 9 to represent Virginia’s 11th district in the U.S. House of Representatives. … Continued
Patient First offers sports physicals
If you’re child plans to play a sport in school or in a youth league, they’re going to need a sports physical. Patient First, a healthcare facility at 7042A Little River Turnpike in Annandale and a Taste of Annandale sponsor, is offering sports physicals on a walk-in basis. An appointment is not necessary. Patient First … Continued
Justice students encouraged to become Public Health Youth Ambassadors
Justice High School students interested in a health career are encouraged to apply for the Public Health Youth Ambassador Program’s fall 2025 cohort. The program offers instruction to students in grades 10-12 in learning about community health, teen mental health, and reducing opioid use. Students who qualify for the Youth Ambassador program take classes and … Continued
Toxic algae mats appear in Lake Accotink
Don’t wade or swim in Lake Accotink and don’t let your children or dog play in the water, the Virginia Department of Health warns That’s because there’s a toxic blue-green algae bloom in the lake. “Exposure to algal toxins may cause illness,” states a notice posted by VDH at the marina. “Call your doctor or … Continued
Culmore kids promote tap water
By Shane Gomez A local program is teaching students and residents in the Culmore area of Bailey’s Crossroads about the benefits of drinking tap water and the harm of single-use plastic. Friends of Holmes Run and Hispanics Against Child Abuse and Neglect (HACAN) are partnering on programming to discourage residents skeptical of tap water from … Continued
Medicaid cuts would harm Virginians and the state budget
The budget reconciliation bill expected to be passed by Congress would impose a significant burden on Virginia, including the elimination of Medicaid benefits and safety net assistance for hundreds of thousands of residents. The bill will result in a 21 percent cut in Medicaid for Virginia, state Sen. Saddam Salim (37th District-Merrifield) said at a … Continued
Summer course focuses on health careers
High school students and recent graduates interested in health careers are encouraged to sign up for Health and Medical 101, a new summer course from Fairfax County Public Schools’ Adult and Community Education (ACE) program. The course runs from June 23 to Aug. 11. Classes are held on Mondays and Wednesdays, 9 a.m.-noon, at the … Continued