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Office: 8229 Boone Blvd. Suite 280 Annadale, VA 22182 Hours Open Monday through Friday 9AM to 5PM

Help Reverse Cognitive Decline with

Bredesen Protocol Alzheimers Treatment in Annadale, VA

There's no way around it: Getting diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease can be both scary and disheartening for patients and their loved ones. The cognitive impairment, memory loss, and eventual cognitive decline can seem like a grim prognosis. Unfortunately, the standard reductionist approach seeking to identify a single silver bullet cure doesn't account for the multifactorial nature of Alzheimer's disease.

That's why treating Alzheimer's disease requires a multifaceted response from functional medicine. While there is no single drug that can cure Alzheimer's, protocols addressing the nuanced factors contributing to the disease can make a difference. That's where Proactive Wellness Centers and Bredesen protocol treatment in Annadale, VA comes into play.

Service Areas

Bredesen Protocol Alzheimers Treatment Annadale, VA

The Proactive Wellness Approach to Brain Health

At Proactive Wellness, we firmly believe that brain health is an essential part of your overall well-being. However, despite the emergence of new research, there has been limited understanding of how to promote brain health effectively. This includes reducing the risk of dementia/Alzheimer's and stabilizing cognitive decline in patients with early symptoms. Dr. Lawson, an esteemed Bredesen Protocol practitioner and ReCode 2.0 Certified with 17 years of experience in functional medicine can identify and address the root cause of cognitive decline in you or your loved one.

Dr. Lawson's goal isn't to replace the role of family physicians. Rather, we collaborate with primary care physicians, internists, and other medical professionals to provide a comprehensive approach to care. We believe that every individual is unique from a physiological perspective, and therefore, we avoid a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, our programs focus on a customized approach, addressing risk factors that, if avoided or modified, could have beneficial effects for men and women who have dementia.

Our programs have a strong emphasis on slowing down and reversing the aging process, preventing diseases, and treating chronically ill patients. To achieve this, we employ a three-pronged approach:

  • We empower patients with the knowledge they need to manage their health and attain optimal well-being.
  • We prioritize disease prevention by conducting a thorough evaluation with the help of comprehensive diagnostics and the patient's health history form.
  • We collaborate with patients to implement a rejuvenation program that includes various science-based treatments, like our Brain Health Optimization Program (BHOP) for people suffering from dementia and Alzheimer's

One of the most popular and effective programs we offer includes Bredesen protocol treatment in Annadale VA. This revolutionary approach to dementia has provided hope and improved cognitive function for countless people in the US. But to understand the importance of the Bredesen protocol, it's important that you first understand dementia, Alzheimer's, and its effect on people across the world.

The Wide-Reaching Effects of

Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia

There are currently more than 5.8 million individuals in the United States who are living with Alzheimer's disease. It is predicted that the number of individuals with Alzheimer's disease will more than double by 2050.

Dementia is a type of cognitive decline that affects mental abilities. There are many different causes and complex layers involved. Cognitive impairment is characterized by abnormal results on tests measuring memory, speech, critical thinking, and other cognitive abilities, but individuals with this diagnosis are still capable of performing daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. Without proper treatment, Alzheimer's disease is likely to follow within a few years. Alzheimer's disease is the most prevalent form of dementia, and it is diagnosed through neuro-imaging and analysis of cerebrospinal fluid.

In the past, being diagnosed with Alzheimer's was often worse than receiving a death sentence. It was dehumanizing and stripped individuals of their memories, thinking abilities, and independence. However, after three decades of research, we now have a greater understanding of this devastating illness and even solutions like Bredesen protocol treatment in Annadale, VA that can help patients deal with dementia.

Bredesen Protocol Alzheimers Treatment Annadale, VA

What Causes Dementia?

Dementia is caused by a normal and healthy brain process that malfunctions due to a toxic environment, inflammation, and a lack of necessary nutrients and hormones. The brain's defense mechanism produces amyloid plaques, which serve as a protective helmet around the brain. Unfortunately, these plaques destroy connections between nerve cells, ultimately affecting comprehension, recollection, and clarity.

Bredesen Protocol Alzheimers Treatment Annadale, VA

Dementia by the Numbers

It's important to understand the impact of Alzheimer's disease (AD) around the world. According to the CDC, AD is present in 50% of patients in nursing homes and causes more than 110,000 deaths annually in the US. It was the 6th leading cause of death in 2015. More than 5 million people in the US are affected by AD, and recent data indicates that the problem is getting worse.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 47 million people around the world are currently living with dementia, and this number is expected to rise to 75 million by 2030 and 132 million by 2050. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60 to 80 percent of all cases.

While reading those statistics can be disheartening, there's reason to be hopeful. New therapies and treatments offered at Proactive Wellness - like Bredesen protocol treatment - can help patients deal with dementia and cognitive decline.

Bredesen Protocol Alzheimers Treatment Annadale, VA

The Power of

Bredesen Protocol Treatment in Annadale, VA

The Bredesen Protocol is a highly personalized treatment program that aims to reverse cognitive decline and improve brain function in patients. Dr. Bredesen has designed the protocol to be adaptable and customizable, tailored to the specific symptoms and needs of each patient.

The program is centered around lifestyle changes, medication, and nutritional adjustments, all of which are tailored to address the unique symptoms and environmental factors that may be contributing to cognitive decline. This approach, referred to as ReCODE, helps patients to combat brain fog and prevent the onset of dementia.

It has also helped patients improve cognitive function significantly, reverse symptoms, and even return to work. The ReCODE program comprises lifestyle interventions, therapeutic diets, and targeted nutrients. Proactive Wellness Centers is thrilled to offer this promising treatment modality for Alzheimer's disease to benefit our patients.

It all starts with a baseline Bredesen evaluation at our wellness clinic in Annadale, VA.

Baseline Bredesen Evaluation from

Proactive Wellness Centers

At Proactive Wellness Centers, we have two ways to help patients who are in search of Bredesen protocol treatment in Annadale, VA. The first option is our Baseline Bredesen Evaluation, which is best suited for asymptomatic patients - that is, individuals who do not exhibit any significant cognitive decline beyond what is expected with age. Dr. Bredesen classifies such patients as "PreCode."

This evaluation serves as a starting point for PreCode patients, as well as those who are unsure of their cognitive status and potential risk factors. Our baseline evaluation includes the following:

The first step involves conducting a comprehensive set of baseline labs to evaluate your overall health, closely following the Bredesen protocol. This step goes beyond standard labs that you might have for a physical. It includes tests for magnesium, zinc, and selenium levels, B6, B12, and folate levels, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid levels.

It also includes

  • Pre-Diabetes Evaluation
  • Hormone Level Evaluation
  • Thyroid Level Evaluation
  • Specific Immune Marker Evaluation such as TH1, TH2, IL6, and TNF.

Our goal with this assessment is to establish a starting point and compare your cognitive function against what is typical for your age group. We have chosen to use the CNS Vital Signs cognitive assessment, which is widely recognized as one of the best in the industry. Additionally, we will be conducting the standard MoCA test as part of the evaluation.

A DNA test is performed to identify the specific APOE genotype present in your DNA. APOE e4 has been shown to be associated with an increased chance of late-onset Alzheimer's disease, which occurs after a person is 65 years old.

This step covers your lab results and includes a detailed plan of action to address areas of improvement as identified in your baseline evaluation.

Bredesen Protocol Alzheimers Treatment Annadale, VA

What are the Early Signs of

Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease?

As we grow older, it can be difficult to distinguish between normal changes in our cognitive abilities and the initial signs of dementia. The issue with preventing chronic illnesses is that we often believe we are healthy as long as we don't experience any symptoms, but this is not entirely accurate. Symptoms are typically the last indicator of a disease, meaning it has already progressed by the time they appear.

While it's always best to catch diseases before you notice symptoms, taking proactive measures at the first sign of cognitive changes can greatly impact the aging of your brain and body. It's crucial to act immediately if you're experiencing the following symptoms of Mild Cognitive Impairment. That way, ,you have a better chance of preventing the development of Alzheimer's.

Bredesen Protocol Alzheimers Treatment Annadale, VA

Roughly 10% of individuals with MCI progress to Alzheimer's annually.

Fortunately, Bredesen protocol treatment in Annadale, VA may provide you with a chance to delay or even reverse these symptoms

Memory Issues

Memory Issues

You have a hard time remembering events that happened recently, such as appointments or important conversations with loved ones. You may also have trouble remembering important information.

Language Issues

Language Issues

You have trouble finding relevant words when you're talking with other people. You may also have problems following along with complex or complicated discussions.

Maintaining Concentration

Difficulty Maintaining Concentration and Attention

You have noticed a reduced ability to focus and stay honed in on most tasks. You may also not be able to multitask effectively, and it may be harder to keep your attention for long periods of time.

Decline in Executive Functions

Decline in Executive Functions

This symptom involves difficulty with skills like decision-making, planning, problem-solving, and organizing. These difficulties are often most apparent in day-to-day activities.

Visuospatial Awareness

Problems with Visuospatial Awareness

You may have trouble parking your car, judging distances, reading maps, or completing tasks that necessitate spatial orientation.

Impaired Judgement

Impaired Judgement and Reasoning

This may include problems when making judgments or decisions. Examples may consist of difficulties making financial decisions, managing finances, making reasonable and appropriate social decisions, or thinking through risky situations.

Bredesen Protocol Alzheimers Treatment Annadale, VA

By contrast, some of the most common signs of normal aging can include the following

Experiencing temporary lapses in memory, where recently learned details like names or scheduled events may slip from one's mind but can be remembered later on

  • You occasionally make mistakes, but nothing that stands out as significant or unusual.
  • You have to ask for help putting together or setting up electronic devices or equipment.
  • You sometimes forget what day it is but have the ability to remember the correct date later on.
  • Your vision is getting worse, which is caused by cataracts.
  • You experience shortness of breath or get tired more often when being active.
  • You feel unusual aches and pains, especially during poor weather.
  • You get confused sometimes but don't have an inability to make decisions or multitask.
  • You have a hard time keeping your body temp regulated.
  • You get angry or frustrated when tasks aren't completed in certain ways.

Your Trusted Choice for Bredesen Protocol Treatment in Annadale, VA

Maintaining a healthy brain is crucial for one's overall well-being, yet there remains a lack of knowledge when it comes to promoting brain health, reducing the likelihood of dementia, or managing symptoms for those exhibiting early warning signs.

That's why we're excited to offer patients the ReCODE program at Proactive Wellness Centers. Developed by Doctor Bredesen, this treatment has shown remarkable success in improving cognitive function and even reversing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. This comprehensive program includes lifestyle changes, dietary interventions, and specialized nutrients, and we are eager to provide this promising treatment option to patients like you.

If you or a loved one are starting to show concerning signs of cognitive decline, contact our office today to learn more about Bredesen protocol therapy. It could be your first step toward reversing mental decline and enjoying life to its fullest.

Latest News in Annadale, VA

VA Teacher Receives 2024 Grammy Music Educator Award

ANNANDALE, VA — A Fairfax County teacher was honored with the Recording Academy's 2024 Grammy Music Educator Award ahead of last weekend's star-studded ceremony in Los Angeles.Annie Ray, orchestra director and Performing Arts Department chair at Annandale High School, received the award Saturday and was selected from 1o finalists, according to the academy.Each year, the Music Educator Award is given to a teacher who has "made a significant and lasting contribution to the music education field and who also demonstrate...

ANNANDALE, VA — A Fairfax County teacher was honored with the Recording Academy's 2024 Grammy Music Educator Award ahead of last weekend's star-studded ceremony in Los Angeles.

Annie Ray, orchestra director and Performing Arts Department chair at Annandale High School, received the award Saturday and was selected from 1o finalists, according to the academy.

Each year, the Music Educator Award is given to a teacher who has "made a significant and lasting contribution to the music education field and who also demonstrates a commitment to the broader cause of maintaining music education in the schools," the academy states on the Grammys website.

As part of the award, Ray, who lives in Arlington, will receive a $10,000 prize in addition to a matching grant for Annandale High School's music program.

Ray learned she received the award during a "CBS Mornings" watch party attended by her parents, husband, and daughters, as well as students and colleagues.

Find out what's happening in Annandalewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"It’s been a whirlwind experience!" she said in a statement released by Fairfax County Public Schools. "I'm so thankful to all the people who have poured love into me to allow me to make music. I am honored to have been selected from a remarkable group of educators."

During her time with Fairfax County schools, Ray's work with children with disabilities has drawn praise. She is the founder of Crescendo Orchestra, which serves students with severe developmental or intellectual disabilities. She also is a founder of the popular FCPS Parent Orchestra, where parents of music students can learn the same instrument as their child.

In a statement, Ray said the award belongs to her students.

"The love of making music has been our unity and community," she said. "Thank you all for allowing me to guide you in this, I am humbled to accept this award for you all.”

After learning she received the award, Ray attended the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles where she met and spoke to Meryl Streep and Oprah, and took a picture with Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus, WTOP reported.

FCPS leaders called Ray an "inspiration" known for her passion and skills.

Annie is an exemplary Fairfax County Public School teacher; dedicated, compassionate, talented, and innovative," Superintendent Michelle Reid said. "We are grateful to Annie for everything she does to inspire her students every day. This award could not have gone to a more deserving teacher."

Fireworks Near Me: Annandale’s 4th Of July 2021

Patch has your complete guide to Fourth of July fireworks shows, parades and other celebrations around Annandale.Patch StaffANNANDALE, VA — Coronavirus cases continue to drop across the country while the number of those who are fully vaccinated continues to rise, which means there is even more reason to celebrate this Independence Day. July 4 is almost here, so it's time to find out what Fourth of July fireworks and festivities are going on near you.We have all the fireworks shows, parades and festivals happening...

Patch has your complete guide to Fourth of July fireworks shows, parades and other celebrations around Annandale.

Patch Staff

ANNANDALE, VA — Coronavirus cases continue to drop across the country while the number of those who are fully vaccinated continues to rise, which means there is even more reason to celebrate this Independence Day. July 4 is almost here, so it's time to find out what Fourth of July fireworks and festivities are going on near you.

We have all the fireworks shows, parades and festivals happening around Annandale so you can start planning now.

Here's what's in store this July 4:

City of Fairfax Independence Day Parade

What: The City of Fairfax kicks off its 55th Annual Independence Day celebration with a parade on Saturday morning in Old Town. This year's parade includes nine high school marching bands and inflatable parade balloons, as well as floats and clowns. Commemorative 4th of July T-Shirts will be on sale Saturday, June 19, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m., on the steps of City Hall. The theme of this year's T-Shirt is "One Flag. One Hand. One Heart." Shirts are priced at $5/youth and $10/adult, while supplies last. Commemorative baseball caps will also be available for $10.

Find out what's happening in Annandalewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Where: The parade starts from 4100 Chain Bridge Road and continues, rain or shine, around downtown Fairfax, along Chain Bridge Road, Main Street, University Drive and Armstrong Street.

When: Saturday, July 3, at 10 a.m.

City of Fairfax Independence Day Evening Show & Fireworks

What: Enjoy an evening of music and dancing followed by fireworks at Fairfax High School stadium. Due to COVID-19 restoration, there will be no children's activities this year. Items that may puncture synthetic turf are not permitted on the football field. In addition, smoking, alcohol, and animals, with the exception of services animals, are prohibited on the football field. In case of rain, the only the fireworks will be presented on Monday, July 5.

Where: Fairfax High School at 3501 Lion Run, in Fairfax City

When: On-stage entertainment begins at 6:30 p.m., on Sunday, July 4

Vienna Fourth of July Fireworks

What: Fireworks will be held at dark with preceding festivities. Big Bad JuJu will provide live music. Guests are asked to wear a face mask if they're not vaccinated. Social distancing is encouraged. Alcohol, chairs, glass containers and pets are not permitted at the event. The other Fourth of July event, Sprinklers & Sparklers, is canceled in 2021.

Where: Yeonas Park, 1319 Ross Drive SW, Vienna, VA

When: Sunday, July 4, park opens at 7 p.m., fireworks at dark (around 9:30 p.m.)

An American Celebration at Mount Vernon

What: Enjoy daytime fireworks, meet a George Washington reenactor, watch a ceremony where people become U.S. citizens, enjoy 18th century music, watch the National Concert Band, and more.

Where: George Washington's Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mt Vernon, VA

When: Sunday, July 4, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Workhouse Arts Center Fireworks

What: This choreographed display will delight spectators in the region's largest pre-July 4 fireworks. Preceding the fireworks is live entertainment from U.S. Navy Band and DJ Nose. Another special surprise will occur between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. A drive-in tailgate will also include appearances from Uncle Sam and Julia the Balloon Twister, art demos and a performance by the Great Zucchini. Tickets are limited, and the event is expected to sell out.

Where: Workhouse Arts Center Campus, 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton VA

When: Friday, July 2, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Alexandria's 272 Birthday Celebration

What: The birthday celebration will include opening remarks at 8:45 p.m., performance from the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra at 9 p.m. and fireworks display at 9:30 p.m. To limit crowds due to COVID-19, there will not be birthday cake or cannon support from the 3d United States Infantry Regiment, and viewers are encouraged to watch from various locations from Canal Center Plaza to Jones Point Park. Attendees should leave pets at home and avoid smoking at the event. In the case of inclement weather, fireworks only will be rescheduled to 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 11.

Where: Oronoco Bay Park, 100 Madison Street, Alexandria, VA, other viewing points at Canal Center Plaza (Center Canal Plaza); Rivergate Park (2 Montgomery St.); Oronoco Bay Park (100 Madison St.); Founders Park (351 North Union St.); Waterfront Park (1A Prince St.); Windmill Hill Park (501 South Union St.); Fords Landing boardwalk (99 Franklin St.); Jones Point Park (Jones Point Dr.); George Washington Masonic Temple (101 Callahan Dr.)

When: Saturday, July 10; fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

Fireworks on the National Mall in D.C.

What: To celebrate progress made in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, President Joe Biden is planning to celebrate the July Fourth holiday as "a summer of freedom." He will be hosting 1,000 medical workers, first responders, essential workers and military members on the South Lawn of the White House for the National Mall fireworks.

The National Park Service said that consistent with CDC guidelines, people who are not fully vaccinated must wear masks indoors and in crowded outdoor spaces on the National Mall. Masks are required for everyone on all forms of public transportation. All the memorials, except the Washington Monument, will be open.

People visiting the National Mall for the fireworks should practice social or physical distancing, staying at least six feet away from others who are not a member of your household, according to the NPS.

Where: Fireworks will be launched from both sides of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.

When: The 17-minute display will be held on Sunday, July 4 starting at 9:09 p.m.

Due to the pandemic, counties or cities may adjust or cancel events at the last minute, so double-check with organizers. Know of other events in the area? Post them on the Patch calendar or share details on our free Neighbor Post feature.

WOW House for Sale in Annandale: Century-Old Farmhouse on 7 Acres

It was curiosity that brought Nell Miller to Boxhill Farm and delight that made her stay as the sixth steward of the idyllic, 7-acre property with roots going back to 1685.For 25 years, Nell, a retired teacher, and her husband, Ron, were happily ensconced in their Annandale home two miles from Boxhill Farm, with no thought of moving. But, one day they received a brochure in the mail advertising luxury homes in the area, including one on 8316 Queen Elizabeth Boulevard, a place called Boxhill Farm....

It was curiosity that brought Nell Miller to Boxhill Farm and delight that made her stay as the sixth steward of the idyllic, 7-acre property with roots going back to 1685.

For 25 years, Nell, a retired teacher, and her husband, Ron, were happily ensconced in their Annandale home two miles from Boxhill Farm, with no thought of moving. But, one day they received a brochure in the mail advertising luxury homes in the area, including one on 8316 Queen Elizabeth Boulevard, a place called Boxhill Farm.

See more details, listing on Zillow.

“We are not the luxury home types,” Nell said. “But I was curious to see what a 100-year-old house on 7 acres was in our neighborhood. I wondered where it was.”

Nell, a history buff who grew up in a Nebraska farmhouse with parents who are antique dealers, went to look at the property. She was immediately taken with the old house, originally a simple, four-room farm home built around 1897, then carefully expanded to 2,600 square feet through several additions.

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Nell told Ron about her find. Ron recalled, “When she came home that night, Nell told me, ‘This is a house I could retire in.’”

Ron visited the home and was impressed with the park-like property, which includes a pond and a stream, all a half-mile from the Beltway. “We are both outdoors people,” said Ron. “This was 7 acres of boxwoods, walnut trees…it was just gorgeous.” Within days, the couple, who “always liked old homes and properties with big trees,” had arranged to buy the house.

The Millers said they learned that the property, which is bordered on three sides by Wakefield Park, has a rich history. It was part of a large tract of wilderness land bought from the original Jamestown grantee by William Fitzhugh around 1685, farmed for tobacco, and then sold off in parcels. In the 1700s, the nearby estates of Ravensworth, Oak Hill, and Ossian Hill were built on some of those parcels, places that Patriot luminaries such as George Washington, George Mason and Thomas Jefferson likely visited.

(Editor's note: This is a shortened version of a larger feature story on the home, written by local writer Chery Kenny. )

Updated: Fuddruckers Leaving Annandale, will be Replaced by Walgreens

Updated 10:23 a.m. Tuesday, March 20, 2012According to Toni Niece, vice presdent of marketing for Fuddruckers, the Annandale location will close in late April."We are really sad [about leaving], but we appreciate everyone's comments," said Niece. The company has been actively looking for another property and has not ruled out staying in the Annandale area."We would love to relocate. We're working diligently to find another site. We just haven't been able to. We love Annandale. We don't wan...

Updated 10:23 a.m. Tuesday, March 20, 2012

According to Toni Niece, vice presdent of marketing for Fuddruckers, the Annandale location will close in late April.

"We are really sad [about leaving], but we appreciate everyone's comments," said Niece. The company has been actively looking for another property and has not ruled out staying in the Annandale area.

"We would love to relocate. We're working diligently to find another site. We just haven't been able to. We love Annandale. We don't want to leave, but unfortunately, we have no choice," said Niece.

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Fuddruckers opened at their Annandale location in August of 1985.

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Original post 6 a.m. Monday, March 19, 2012

After more than 20 years in business, will leave Annandale.

A Walgreens will replace the family-friendly restaurant once Fuddruckers' current lease expires.

According to Rona Kramer, who owns the property at 4300 Backlick Rd., Fuddruckers will close before the end of this year.

Representatives for Fuddruckers did not return repeated phone calls from Annandale Patch.

Kramer, a former Maryland Senator, declined to disclose specific details about the terms of Fuddruckers' lease, but said she believes Walgreens will fit in with the Annandale community.

"They're a good a company. I have no reason to believe otherwise," said Kramer, who added that there was a “great deal of interest” in the property while it was on the market.

Some business leaders in the Annandale community disagree with Kramer. Representatives from Walgreens were met with animosity during their presentation to the Annandale Central Business District Planning Committee meeting on Tuesday, March 13 outlining the company’s preliminary proposed site plan for the property.

“We’re losing our last big family restaurant. This is the place where kids go after soccer, football, and boys and girls clubs, so [Walgreens] is going to come in here and not be completely welcome… You can’t get a cheeseburger in Walgreens,” said Dan McKinnon, chairman of the Annandale Central Business District Planning Committee.

McKinnon said the community is concerned about a lack of balance in restaurants and services in Annandale; he pointed out there are already several pharmacies in Annandale, including the ones in grocery stores like Giant and Safeway and in . The 24-hour CVS on Little River Turnpike will be fewer than 500 feet from the new Walgreens.

“We’re a revitalization committee and we’re trying to improve Annandale. This is C-level retail,” said Vicki Burman, executive director of the . “Annandale isn’t going to improve its retailing base by having a Walgreens. It is nothing we need or want.”

Walgreens filed their site plan within the last month, according to Lawrence Leber, president and CEO of Upshire Realty Advisors who was one of three representatives that spoke at Tuesday’s ACBDPC meeting. The company anticipates the approval process will take six months and they hope to break ground once the site plan’s approved. (See the site plans in the images attached to this article.)

The proposed plan for the property shows that the current Fuddruckers 8,000 square feet building will be demolished and replaced by a larger 12,000 square feet building to accommodate the Walgreens. There will be a drive-thru component and 50 parking spaces.

Robert Brown, an associate with Urban, Ltd., said Walgreens completed a traffic analysis with Fairfax County representatives and with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to determine the best way to control the traffic flow. The principal entrance for the store will be accessible from Little River Turnpike. The store will also keep the existing sidewalks on Columbia Pike and Backlick Road.

In a letter to the community dated March 8, 2012, Mason District Supervisor Penelope Gross said the property owned by Kramer and occupied by Fuddruckers is a by-right property, which means the underlying zoning category permits certain development without Planning Commission or Board of Supervisors’ approval.

Gross also said she was “disappointed in this change in use” regarding the site plan for Walgreens.

“The transfer of private property ownership or use is a private business decision, not subject to public input. Although I am disappointed in this change in use, there are benefits from reinvestment at this location. The applicant has agreed to implement improved pedestrian facilities in accordance with the Annandale Streetscape Design Guidelines. The number of entrances will be consolidated from the current five, down to three, greatly improving site access to this congested area of downtown Annandale. The applicant also will provide an increase in green open space and pervious surface on the redevelopment parcel, which currently is almost entirely paved." (Read the full letter in the images attached to this article.)

McKinnon and other members of the ACBDP committee urged the representatives to utilize more of the Annandale Streetscape Guidelines and work closely with the community if Walgreens expects to be welcomed by residents and other businesses.

“Until land owners are willing to come to us and help work with us to develop the kind of retail that Annandale wants, you can’t blame us for not wanting Walgreens,” said Burman.

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Annandale Super Pets Store Moving to Springfield

Update Monday, March 12 at 1:23 p.m.: According to their Facebook page, Super Pets is now open at their Springfield location at 5230-A Port Royal Rd in the Ravensworth Shopping Center. In a comment on Annandale Patch's Facebook page, co-owner John Blauner said the location is a small animal, reptile and bird store.----------After 18 years...

Update Monday, March 12 at 1:23 p.m.: According to their Facebook page, Super Pets is now open at their Springfield location at 5230-A Port Royal Rd in the Ravensworth Shopping Center. In a comment on Annandale Patch's Facebook page, co-owner John Blauner said the location is a small animal, reptile and bird store.

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After 18 years, the aquarium and pet store is leaving its Annandale location. The family-owned shop at 4415 John Marr Dr. will reopen its doors in two months, but at a smaller store in the Ravensworth Shopping Center in Springfield.

According to John Blauner, one of the co-owners, the Super Pets is relocating because their landlord chose not to extend their lease. “[There was] nothing we could do. He didn’t even tell us why,” said Blauner. [Annandale Patch could not independently confirm the expiration of the lease with the owner of the building at the time of publication.]

For years, Supers Pets sold everything from tropical fish to birds and reptiles to pet lovers from Annandale and neighboring cities. “We sold everything but dogs and we had an incredibly large fish department,” said Blauner. They also sold a variety of accessories and supplies for pets.

They may be leaving Annandale, but Blauner said customers can expect the same service, just on a smaller scale. The store’s official last day at their Annandale location was July 31 and they tried to sell much of the inventory before then. Much of their sales were advertised at the shop itself, their website and Facebook page. Devoted customers continue to post messages and questions, mostly wondering when the store will reopen.

“It was a wonderful place,” said David Kirshaum of Arlington who used to bring his daughter to the store to see the animals. Kirshaum added he was glad the store is only relocating and not leaving for good.

Blauner and his family are from Annandale and he said before the arrival of the PetCo’s and PetSmart’s to the area, residents shopped at Super Pets. “My dad originally owned a corporation around the area called Virginia Pet Centers. We were up to about seven stores and then he built [Super Pets]. We took it over from him,” said Blauner, who runs and co-owns the store with his two siblings. Blauner said his sister, Tracie, primarily handles the day-to-day operations of the store.

Although they are a pet store, Blauner said not all of the animals were for sale; some were brought in for display, which may have added to the zoo-like atmosphere in the shop. Blauner said schools and families organized trips to Super Pets to visit the animals. “You could spend hours looking at various fish and parrots and reptiles,” said Blauner.

While Blauner said it’s a shame to lose the 15,000 square foot space, he’ll miss “being in the heart of the Annandale” the most. Blauner did not specify an exact reopening date, but said Super Pets will begin accepting orders out of the warehouse shortly.

For updates on when Super Pets will open at their Ravensworth location, visit their website or “like” them on Facebook.

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