Check out our December newsletter!
December 2025
Farewell, Never Goodbye A Heartfelt Thanks to a Colleague Who Became Family This month marks a major change in one of my most remarkable relationships. My longtime friend, voice teacher, colleague, and employee is moving on to a new chapter in her life. I am excited for Tammy as she frees up more time to spend with the children and grandchildren she loves. After working with Tammy for nearly 20 years, I have been reflecting on all that we have shared. As a noted author once said, many people walk in and out of our lives, but only true friends leave footprints on our hearts. Tammy’s and my relationship is rare and special. People in our modern era seldom stay in any one place for long. To be with one employer for nearly two decades is a real badge of loyalty and commitment. I’m not saying loyalty should be an end in itself; people today have lots of opportunities. But Tammy often says this is the best job she’s ever had. And the fact that this has worked so well for both of us over the years is remarkable. Parallel Paths Tammy and I spent about three years together at our first law firm, and she came with me when I moved on to another firm. We occupied the same office space for almost nine years, enabling us to share what was going on in our heads and hearts. Tammy has been a cheerleader and a commiserator. She questioned my decisions as only people close to you can do, asking, “Are you really sure about that?” She called me on missteps: “You went too far on that.” Only people who truly care will do that for you. Our mutual trust runs deep. If I told Tammy, “Go walk off the end of that bridge,” she would trust that there was a net there. WORKSHOP Have you (or your clients) “been meaning” to get a plan in place? It’s easy to get started with our 7 Hazards to Your Estate Plan Workshop . This free workshop explains the key planning concepts, documents, and factors in selecting a plan that is right for you. Plus, workshop participants receive a complimentary consultation with no obligation to retain our services. The workshop is available on demand or in person, so stop thinking about a plan and create one. Register online at PromiseLaw.com/ Estate-Planning-Workshop or call (757) 351-4017.
I am known among colleagues for initiating new things. One reason I had the comfort and confidence to do that is that I knew Tammy had my back. In addition to her organizational skills, she also brought that “Hey, we will figure this out” confidence. When I began thinking about opening a law firm of my own, Tammy was part of those discussions. Becoming my first employee at Promise Law was a big leap of faith on her part. But we had been through so many seasons in our lives together that we knew we could handle this one too. Mentors in Creativity I have a persistent urge to be creative, and any good performances I have given are because of what I learned from Tammy and her husband, Jim. Tammy, an extremely gifted singer and accomplished pianist, has been my longtime voice teacher. She joked about that role reversal: “You’re not the boss of me when I’m at the piano!” In one recital by Tammy’s
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FDA vs. Vaping
E-Cigarette Firms Can Now Challenge FDA Decisions Closer to Home
The Supreme Court handed vaping companies a significant win, and it could shake up how the Food and Drug Administration regulates e-cigarettes. In a 7–2 decision, the justices ruled that e-cigarette businesses can challenge FDA decisions in courts outside of the agency’s home turf. Companies now have more options if they want to fight rules that block their products from the market. This case started with R.J. Reynolds Vapor Co., based in North Carolina, which sold popular berry and menthol- flavored vapes. The FDA said no to their Vuse Alto products, a move that basically wiped out a big chunk of the vaping market. Instead of being stuck filing in North Carolina or Washington, D.C. (FDA headquarters), R.J. Reynolds teamed up with Texas-based sellers and filed a lawsuit there. The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals sided with the e-cigarette businesses, deciding that if FDA decisions hurt a company, it should be able to sue where it is based. The Supreme Court agreed, with Justice Amy Coney Barrett writing that the law does allow companies to take action in their home states if agency decisions hurt them. This comes after an earlier Supreme Court ruling in April, in which the justices sided with the FDA in a case about banning most sweet-flavored e-cigarettes to curb teen vaping. That decision gave the agency major power to regulate, but companies now have more flexibility in legal battles.
“The court’s decision doesn’t mean vaping rules are disappearing; it just gives sellers a stronger chance to fight back when the agency makes a move that could hurt their business.”
Not everyone is thrilled with the new ruling. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, joined by Justice Sonia Sotomayor, voted against it, and groups like the Campaign for Tobacco- Free Kids also spoke out, warning the decision could let manufacturers “judge shop” to find friendlier courts. Conversely, attorney Ryan Watson, who represented R.J. Reynolds, called the decision a big win. He said FDA actions can have ripple effects that hurt retailers and other businesses, and this ruling keeps “the courthouse doors open” for those impacted. For him and the companies he represents, it’s about ensuring businesses have a fair shot at defending themselves. So, what does this mean for the vaping world? For one, companies now have more leeway to challenge FDA rules and keep their products on shelves. At the same time, the FDA still has considerable authority, and previous rulings about flavor bans and youth protection remain in place. The court’s decision doesn’t mean vaping rules are disappearing; it just gives sellers a stronger chance to fight back when the agency makes a move that could hurt their business. Ultimately, the battle over vaping regulations isn’t over. The Supreme Court’s ruling opens doors for manufacturers and retailers, and we’ll likely see more legal action in the months ahead.
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We’ve all been there: lying awake at night, replaying conversations, imagining worst-case scenarios, or obsessing over things we can’t change. Overthinking might feel harmless, but when those thoughts keep circling, they can take a toll on your mood, energy, and overall well-being. So, how do you break the cycle? It starts with noticing what’s happening in your mind. Next time your thoughts go into overdrive, pause and ask yourself: What emotion is fueling this? Maybe it’s worry, guilt, or frustration. Recognizing the source is the first step toward loosening its grip. Turn down the mental volume. When your brain feels stuck on repeat, try redirecting your energy. Dive into a hobby, work out, learn a new recipe, or volunteer for a cause that matters to you. Shifting focus Hit Pause When Your Brain Won’t Stop Talking When ‘What If’ Won’t Quit
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students, my singing partner for a duet fell ill. In a moment I will always cherish, Tammy took my partner’s place and we sang together. And Jim, a professional in the performing arts, consistently encouraged me when I did improv and stand-up comedy. I remember feeling devastated after a terrible performance, and Jim said, “That’s performing! Just pick yourself up and keep on doing it!” Across Generations When I was dating Fred, who is 29 years my senior, I sometimes questioned my judgment. Tammy shared with me that her parents were 20 years apart in age and encouraged me, saying, “Anyone worth having is going to add more than they take,” and that the sincerity of hearts would bridge that gap. Her singing at my wedding was the ultimate gift. I have eagerly cheered on Tammy’s two children through college graduations and weddings, and the launching of careers and families of their own. Through all of these seasons of work and family life, aging, loved ones’ passing, and health crises, Tammy and I just soldiered on through it all together. Thinking back over the years, I remember Tammy’s sadness after Promise Law’s growth forced us to move out of our shared office. Although I assured her that we were still together, she said, “It is never going to be the same again because it won’t be just the two of us.” Tammy has always carried within her that ballast, history, and appreciation of where we had come from. She was the carrier of our legacy. As we face this new kind of separation, I realize our relationship is never going to be the same. But I am confident we will build together the new norms and opportunities to connect and keep our friendship strong.
gives your mind a break and can help you feel more grounded.
Breathing exercises also work wonders. Place one hand on your heart, one on your belly, and take slow, steady breaths in and
And as Promise Law continues growing in its 12th year, Tammy shares in our success. For that, and for so much more, Tammy … Thank you!
out through your nose. It’s simple, but it signals your body to relax and can help calm racing thoughts in just a few minutes. Challenge your thoughts. Automatic negative thoughts (those instant, gloomy reactions) can trap you in “what ifs” and worst-case scenarios. Write them down, seek a more balanced perspective, and see if you can do anything about them. Taking small, thoughtful actions toward solutions can help quiet the mental noise. And remember, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Talking to a trusted friend or a therapist can give you a fresh outlook on managing those runaway thoughts.
–Geneva N. Perry, Esq.
Scan this QR code to hear Tammy perform Geneva’s favorite wedding song.
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PromiseLaw Life happens. Plan on it. ™ (757) 351-4017 600 Thimble Shoals Blvd., Ste. 350 Newport News, VA 23606
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Celebrating the Retirement of a Beloved Friend and Colleague
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Vape Wars: Supreme Court Lets Sellers Take on FDA Nationwide
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Overthinking Overload? Try These Mind-Clearing Tips
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4 Make Daily Tasks Easier With Voice-Activated Tech Hands-Free Help for a Smarter Home VOICE-ACTIVATED TECH IS CHANGING EVERYDAY LIFE
Smart speakers that simplify life. Today’s smart speakers do more than play music. The latest Amazon, Google, and Apple models let you use multiple assistants in one device. Whether it’s Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant, you can ask questions, control your home devices, or set reminders. Advanced microphones pick up your voice clearly, even with background noise, so you can give commands from across the room without repeating yourself. Cooking made easier. In the kitchen, voice-activated appliances are changing the game. Smart fridges can recommend recipes based on what you have, while microwaves can start cooking on your
Imagine queuing up your favorite music, turning off the lights, or locking the doors … all without lifting a finger. That’s the magic of voice-activated technology. What once felt futuristic is now a daily convenience, making life at home simpler and way more fun.
command. Some devices can even help manage grocery lists or reorder essentials automatically, taking the stress out of meal prep. Security you can count on. Keeping your home safe is easier than ever with voice-activated security systems. Just ask, and you can lock your doors, view camera feeds, or arm the alarm. Some systems even connect directly to emergency services, giving you peace of mind whether you’re at home or away. It’s peace of mind with zero hassle. Voice-controlled tech is no longer a luxury. It’s a practical way to make your home more efficient, secure, and easily managed.
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