Providing Natural Solutions for Male Sexual Health
There's not much we can count on in life, but if there's one guarantee, we can bet that our bodies change as we grow older. That's especially true for men as they age. One moment you're partying at the club, waking up refreshed, and hitting the gym. The next moment, getting out of bed is a chore. You're sore in places you never thought before, and hangovers don't just go away after a hot shower and a big breakfast.
And while sore joints and backaches can be treated with aspirin and ice, other signs of aging aren't as easy to treat. Of course, we're talking about challenges in getting and maintaining erections needed to satisfy your partner. At the extreme, we all know it as erectile dysfunction or ED for short but long before full ED, there are warning signs that things aren't working as they used to work. Hearing the ED word sends shivers down most men's spines. When you think about it, that makes sense - being unable to perform when you need to most is a scary thought.
If you're beginning to suffer from ED or male performance issues or you've been dealing with performance issues for some time, it may seem like nobody has any solutions or even really understands how these issues can impact your life and sense of well-being. However, ED of varying degrees is very common. More than 18 million men suffer from the condition in the U.S. Unfortunately, many of those men hide their performance issues without ever addressing them. If you're one of those men, and it feels like you're stuck in a rut with no help, we're here to tell you you're not alone. Proactive Wellness Centers, PLC is here to provide you with a long-lasting solution to help you regain confidence and perform like you used to.
Additionally, many men including the so-called "bio hackers" are using our treatments to PREVENT the performance decline in the first place. Why wait for the inevitable when you can implement strategies to prevent the decline in the first place.

The Proactive Wellness Center Difference
At Proactive Wellness Center, we are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of our patients by offering comprehensive programs that focus on reversing and slowing the aging process, preventing disease, and providing effective treatments for those with chronic illnesses. Our approach is three-fold, encompassing knowledge empowerment, disease prevention, and rejuvenation therapies tailored to each individual's unique physiology.
Empowering Patients with Knowledge: To achieve optimal health, we think that information is a powerful tool. Our programs are designed to educate and empower patients, equipping them with the information they need to take charge of their well-being. We provide comprehensive evaluations that incorporate patient-supplied information and utilize advanced diagnostics to assess health status thoroughly. By understanding their individual health profiles, patients can make informed decisions about their lifestyle, diet, and overall healthcare.
Disease Prevention through Comprehensive Evaluations: Prevention is key to maintaining good health, and we prioritize disease prevention through thorough evaluations. Our team utilizes comprehensive diagnostics to assess risk factors and identify potential health concerns. By addressing these factors early on, we aim to mitigate the risk of chronic diseases and promote overall wellness. Our approach goes beyond a one-size-fits-all model, recognizing that each individual is unique and requires personalized care.
Rejuvenation Programs for Optimal Health: Our anti-aging treatments are supported by research and center on slowing down the aging process, increasing tissue regeneration, and lowering cellular degradation.We understand that everyone's needs and goals are different, so our programs are customized to address individual requirements. Through advanced testing and genetics, we tailor the treatment approach to each patient, ensuring the best possible outcomes for their health and well-being.
At Proactive Wellness Center, we are committed to staying at the forefront of scientifically-validated therapies that reverse aging, prevent chronic diseases, and optimize health. For men who may be experiencing erectile problems, one of the proven therapies we offer is GAINSWave therapy in West Falls Church, VA. This therapy, among others, is part of our comprehensive approach to help patients achieve their health goals.
Our center is dedicated to providing personalized and effective care to our patients. We believe in equipping individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health, focusing on disease prevention, and offering rejuvenation therapies tailored to their unique physiology. Together, we can work towards reversing the aging process, preventing disease, and optimizing overall health for a better quality of life.
Our Services
- Providing Natural Solutions for Male Sexual Health
- The Proactive Wellness Center Difference
- What is GAINSWave Therapy?
- What Makes GAINSWave Therapy in Lake Barcroft, VA Work?
- Other Treatments and Programs from Proactive Wellness Centers, PLC
- Achieve Your Wellness Goals at Proactive Wellness Centers, PLC
Service Areas
What is GAINSWave Therapy?
If you have ED or even a minor decline in sexual performance, there's a good chance you've already seen your primary care doctor. You've talked to them about the issues you're facing. And, if they're like many doctors, they prescribed you some pills and sent you on your way. Unfortunately, going this route doesn't do much to solve erectile dysfunction - you're just putting a band-aid on the problem. Plus, you're putting strange chemicals in your body via a "little blue pill" that may cause adverse side effects.
At the end of the day, you need a real-deal solution to ED, not a quick fix. The good news? A safe, non-invasive, injection-free answer to your problems exists. It's called GAINSWave therapy, and according to recent studies, it has shown an 85-92% success rate for mild to moderate cases of erectile dysfunction.
Reports from men who have used GAINSWave therapy in Lake Barcroft, VA report the following benefits:
- Stronger, Longer Lasting Erections
- Improved Sexual Pleasure
- More Blood Circulation and Flow
- Better Girth and Length
- Less Rest Needed Between Orgasms
- Enhanced Intimacy in the Bedroom

Unlike many ED treatments, you don't have to worry about surgery or drugs when you choose GAINSWave. This revolutionary treatment uses acoustic wave technology, also called pulse wave therapy, instead of surgery or pills, which helps to rebuild blood flow to the penile region, thereby boostings erectile strength and, by proxy, confidence.
But the benefits of GAINSWave don't end there. This therapy also breaks up micro plaques and boosts nitric oxide, which forms new blood vessels and collagen. That's exciting news for men suffering from Peyronie's disease, which is another condition specific to male sexual health.
Contact Us For Services

What Makes GAINSWave Therapy in Lake Barcroft, VA Work?
With time, men's blood flow decreases, sensitivity isn't what it once was, and blood vessels start to get thinner or even partially or fully blocked. With GAINSWave, high-frequency, low-intensity shockwaves rejuvenate areas of the penis that have suffered with age. For instance, micro plaques are removed, new blood vessels form, and blood flow increases. According to several clinical studies, enhanced blood flow from GAINSWave translates to more sustainable, rigid erections in 75% of men.
Though males in America are only beginning to realize the benefits of GAINSWave, it's a treatment that has been used for over a decade around the world. Backed by science and proven to rejuvenate vasculature in male erections, GAINSWave works without any pain or recovery time. In fact, it's possible to pop into Proactive Wellness Centers on your lunch break for a therapy session.
Proactive Wellness Centers' GAINSWave treatments feature:
- Low-Intensity Pulse or Shockwaves
- All Natural
- No Needles
- No Pills
- No Pain
- No Surgery
- No Recovery Time
- Quick Procedures
Because this procedure is needle, surgery, and drug-free, most men don't have to suffer through costly insurance claims or unsightly scarring. With GAINSWave and our comprehensive and personalized ED treatment plans, all you need to focus on is enjoying life, knowing your erectile dysfunction is a thing of the past.
Who Are the Best Candidates for Gainswave Therapy in Lake Barcroft, VA?
If you're a man over the age of 30 and want to optimize your performance or if you are suffering a decline in this area, GAINSWave may be for you. That's even more true if other treatments never worked. For many men, those unsuccessful solutions include pills like Viagra. If prescription pills don't solve your ED problems, GAINSWave is a great option to consider. Academic studies show that shockwave therapy is successful where PDE5 inhibitors (like Viagra or Cialis) fall short.
In fact, many urologists now consider shockwave therapy the greatest revolution in ED treatment in over a decade. Even men without erectile dysfunction use GAINSWave as a preventative therapy to keep their bedroom performance strong and avoid compromised blood vessels.
Some of the key benefits of GAINSWave procedures over other ED treatments include:
- No Drugs
- Backed by Clinical Studies and Extensive Medical Research
- Vast Record of Success
- FDA-Approved for Enhanced Sexual Wellness
- Available at Proactive Wellness Centers, PLC
What Should I Expect from GAINSWave Therapy at Proactive Wellness Centers?
If you're ready to begin your journey to a healthier, happier sex life, getting started at our wellness clinic is as easy as 1-2-3:
Make an Appointment: Give our office a call at 703-822-5003. One of our Clinical Intake Coordinators will answer any question you have and get you started. If you prefer, you can text "gainswave" to 833.341.0170, and our Clinical Intake Coordinator will get back to you personally and confidentially.
Prep: Once the intake process is complete, you'll schedule a time for GAINSWave therapy in Lake Barcroft, VA. You'll arrive at our wellness center for treatment at least 30 minutes before your appointment time. Procedure time is usually no longer than 30 minutes and occurs in our wellness center.
Enjoy the Benefits: Once your GAINSWave therapy session is over, you can get right back to what you were doing beforehand. Studies show that approximately 75% of men enjoy positive results like stronger, longer-lasting erections after treatment. Most men only need 6-12 sessions for optimal results.
Other Treatments and Programs from Proactive Wellness Centers, PLC
As the premier wellness clinic in Virginia and the metro D.C. area, we provide patients with a comprehensive list of treatments to slow the process of aging and treat chronic conditions. Our vision is to provide the latest in scientifically-validated therapies, like GAINSWave therapy in Lake Barcroft, VA, for reversing the aging process, preventing chronic disease, and optimizing health.
Some of the most requested services we offer include:

Low-T Treatment for Men
While not as widely discussed as menopause is for women, andropause is very real for men just as menopause is significant for women. Our Low-T program for men focuses on the unique needs of men who are suffering from andropause or low testosterone. The Program Testosterone replacement when clinically indicated, optimization of DHEA and Pregenenolone, combined with nutritional guidance, nutritional supplementation recommendations to optimize your health. For men where Testosterone has declined, the Low-T program is a necessary complement to the Gainswave therapy.
Depending on lab results and patient goals, the program may also include peptides to help patients optimize their health and body composition. If you can identify with some of the symptoms below, you are likely experiencing low testosterone / andropause and are a candidate for laboratory testing to determine if BHRT is right for you.
Symptoms may include:
- Fatigue
- Erectile dysfunction
- Decreased stamina
- Loss of physical agility
- Decreased mental sharpness
- Prostate problems
- Insomnia

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women
Like men, women's bodies change as they grow older. Often referred to as menopause, this time in a woman's life can be stressful when the body uses energy differently, fat cells change, and hormones decline.
Many of the common symptoms and conditions associated with menopause are widely known and discussed, but there are many that are overlooked. At Proactive Wellness Centers, we've seen patients misdiagnosed with other illnesses that were actually caused by a decline in hormone levels. Our BHRT program for women focuses on the unique needs of women who are suffering from the common as well as the lesser-known symptoms of menopause.
Those symptoms may include:
- Hot Flashes
- Mood Swings
- Depression
- UTIs
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Indigestion
- Osteoporosis
- Vertigo
- Anxiety Attacks
- Vaginal Dryness
- Fatigue

What are Bioidentical Hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are also known as natural hormones. They are substances with the same chemical makeup as the hormones produced in your body. Hormones are not drugs - they occur naturally and are found in every human on earth. BHRT replaces hormones at a physiologic level that is not harmful to the body.
If you're suffering through the symptoms of menopause, taking Midol isn't going to solve any problems. Fortunately, our BHRT program for women is designed to eliminate many menopausal symptoms. That way, we give women a chance to recapture their energy levels and vitality with drugs or surgery. Contact our office today to learn more about bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and how it can help you recapture the joys of your youth.
Bredesen-Protocol Strategies for Improving Brain Health
We believe that a healthy brain is paramount to overall well-being. Unfortunately, little is known about promoting brain health, lowering the risk of dementia, or stabilizing symptoms for patients experiencing early signs.
After much research, however, Dr. Lawson from Proactive Wellness Centers determined that the Bredesen protocol provides the best evidence-based approach to diagnosing and treating cognitive decline.
The approach, created by Dr. Dale Bredesen, is called ReCODE. This protocol involves multiple strategies to pinpoint specific health issues contributing to Alzheimer's Disease. The results of each strategy are measured using blood tests, dementia tests, cognitive evaluations, and other signs of overall health improvement. Now a Bredesen Certified doctor, Dr. Lawson now offers patients the full Bredesen ReCODE protocol to help them recover from debilitating illnesses like Alzheimer's.
Through this exciting approach, patients have shown dramatic improvements in cognitive function. In some cases, they achieve a reversal of symptoms and have even returned to work.
Proactive Wellness Centers' ReCODE program uses significant functional medicine experience and includes:
- Lifestyle Interventions
- Targeted Nutrients
- Therapeutic Diets
We're thrilled to add this promising Alzheimer's disease treatment for qualifying patients at Proactive Wellness Centers.

Chronic Disease Treatment
Long-term diseases like Lyme disease and Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) can ruin a person's life and often leave them afraid to leave the house. To make matters worse, these chronic diseases are often initially misdiagnosed, complicating treatment and leaving the patient depressed and hopeless. And while some medical prescriptions can help, many chronic disease sufferers live without finding true relief.
At Proactive Wellness Centers, our innovative doctors have developed a comprehensive treatment program to address chronic diseases like CIRS and Lyme disease. Generally, our Chronic Disease Treatment follows SSRP protocols as defined below:
- Stop the progression of the disease while strengthening the immune system
- Stabilize patients by balancing hormones and restoring energy
- Reverse cellular, mitochondrial, and other damages caused by chronic diseases, based on lab markers and/or symptomatic expression
- Prevent further development of the chronic disease processes
Our SSRP protocol provides patients with a promising program based largely on the emerging bodies of evidence in the chronic disease space. This evidence is supported by peer-reviewed medical journals, clinical studies, and even double-blind placebo-controlled studies.

When choosing chronic disease treatments for patients, our team of doctors and clinicians focus on safety and efficacy before anything else. Typical therapies associated with our chronic disease treatment programs include:
- IV Vitamin Therapy
- Targeted Nutritional Supplements
- Compassionate Care and Personalized Service from Qualified Doctors
As an integrative practice, we use conventional medications when indicated, especially in cases of underlying co-infections and other areas where traditional medication offers the best course of treatment.
If you're at your wit's end living with a chronic disease, call Proactive Wellness Centers today. Our innovative treatments and therapies may be the key you need to unlock a new, healthy life.
Achieve Your Wellness Goals at Proactive Wellness Centers, PLC
From GAINSWave therapy in Lake Barcroft, VA, to Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy for women, our doctors are here to serve you with care, compassion, and a commitment to your health.
That's because, at Proactive Wellness Centers, we take a patient-first approach to every service we offer. Unlike some anti-aging clinics, we focus on your goals, your experiences, and how we can address your health and well-being needs. We believe with a full heart that your story matters, and we're ready and waiting to listen. If you're looking for personalized, functional, regenerative treatments that address root causes, you're only a phone call away from living a healthier life.

Hours Open Monday through Friday 9AM to 5PM

Latest News in Lake Barcroft, VA
Door To Door: Lake Barcroft, Virginia and Fort Washington Estates, Maryland.
John Hineshttps://wamu.org/story/14/05/02/door_to_door_lake_barcroft_virginia_and_fort_washington_estates_maryland/
WAMU/John HinesLake Barcroft, VirginiaUnless you know where the Fairfax County neighborhood of Lake Barcroft is located, you might miss it. If you happen to be driving along Columbia Pike past Seven Corners where it begins to feel more wooded and suburban you might notice a big concrete dam. The Lake stretches beyond the dam, but the lake itself is hard to see because of the trees and homes that line its shores and surrounding hills.Originally created by the City of Alexandria as a reservoir, the neighborhood has evolv...
WAMU/John Hines
Lake Barcroft, Virginia
Unless you know where the Fairfax County neighborhood of Lake Barcroft is located, you might miss it. If you happen to be driving along Columbia Pike past Seven Corners where it begins to feel more wooded and suburban you might notice a big concrete dam. The Lake stretches beyond the dam, but the lake itself is hard to see because of the trees and homes that line its shores and surrounding hills.
Originally created by the City of Alexandria as a reservoir, the neighborhood has evolved into a desirable enclave of working professionals and their families.
“Lake Barcroft is located on two streams — Holms Run and Tripps Run — and these streams were dammed to make the Alexandria City Reservoir about 1913, and so this was used as a reservoir for Alexandria. The wooded slopes and hillsides around the neighborhood were preserved for that purpose. They abandoned the reservoir in the ‘30’s, I believe, and developers bought the land and developed it in the early 1950s,” according to 62 year-old resident Betsy Washington.
It may have begun as a municipal reservoir, but the wooded slopes and hillsides of Lake Barcroft have proven to be an ideal setting for an impressive collection of mid-century homes.
“We have a lot of the mid 50’s early 60’s split level houses. Many have been renovated and updated and become quite contemporary, but it’s really a wonderful mix. It’s not one style of house,” says Washington.
As impressive as the architecture might be, the Lake itself is the main draw of the neighborhood. Washington says that the Lake often serves as a soothing tonic for its residents.
“The lake is the heart of the community. So you come home from work, and you’re stressed and you have had a hectic day, and you look out your window and your neighbors and friends are out on the lake kayaking. They’re in these battery operated barges cruising around, and all your cares go away. It’s just a fabulous neighborhood,” effuses Washington.
With all of the water-based activities and its powers of relaxation, Lake Barcroft has an enduring allure. For Washington, leaving Lake Barcroft would be like a bad dream.
“I could never leave Lake Barcroft. I moved in wondering if it would ever get old or I would get tired of looking out the window at the lake, and it’s never happened. And occasionally I have nightmares that I’ve moved to a bigger, fancier house with more amenities. And I wake up just longing for Lake Barcroft,” Washington explains.
Fort Washington Estates, Maryland
Tucked behind the mighty fort above the Potomac River in Fort Washington, Maryland is the neighborhood of Fort Washington Estates. The cozy neighborhood of 1960’s vintage homes is ideal because it’s close to Washington, D.C. but surrounded by forest and parkland, according to 52-year-old resident Jay Krueger.
“The community is located about 15 miles due south of D.C. along the Potomac River almost directly across from Mt. Vernon and adjoining Ft. Washington National Park,” Krueger explains.
Being so close to Washington, the neighborhood’s location is a powerful lure for an increasing diverse—and increasingly more youthful—population.
“Predominantly, I think our demographic is African American but also we have an Ethiopian and Korean make up, as well, in the area. Community is sort of changing, I think, from being an older retirement community that was established originally back in the 1960’s and is now turning over again where we are getting younger families again moving into the area.”
Change may be coming to Fort Washington Estates, but historic Fort Washington stands nearby as a bastion of a bygone era. Today, the Fort remains as a reminder of past threats and wars — including the War of 1812.
“Fort Washington Park was originally built as the protector of Washington. It was the sole fort at the time it was built to protect it. Fort Washington Park was destroyed in the War of 1812, not due to any enemy fire or anything, but for the fear of losing the fort to the enemies at that point, and it was subsequently rebuilt,” says Krueger.
The foreign enemies and their wars are no longer threats for the fort to defend against. Instead these days, the fort and its surrounding forest land defend deer, bald eagles and other wildlife which help make Fort Washington Estates enjoyable.
“Something that you would notice right away and you would be surprised given our close proximity to the city is the abundance of wildlife. Deer everywhere. They are not fazed by contact with us. They are walking down the streets of our neighborhood in our community. With the abundance of park land that we have surrounding us here in Fort Washington Estates, I would say wildlife is something that we really do notice everyday—bald eagles flying overhead from some of the bald eagle nests that are close by here,” Krueger effuses.
For Krueger, it’s hard to beat the combination of location and nature in Fort Washington Estates.
“It’s a wonderful place to live here in Fort Washington Estates with proximity to our nation’s capital but seeing the wildlife that we have here.”
Music: “No, Girl” by Title Tracks from It Was Easy / “Go Your Own Way” by Hit Co. Masters from Instrumental Hits of the 1970s
Dredging Lake Accotink is not financially or environmentally feasible
Annandale Todayhttps://annandaletoday.com/dredging-lake-accotink-is-not-financially-or-environmentally-feasible/
At a virtual community meeting Feb. 15, Fairfax County officials explained why the dredging project that had been proposed to save Lake Accotink is no longer feasible.County public works staff are recommending that “Lake Accotink not be dredged due to significant community and environmental impacts and excessive costs.”A new analysis found the project would cost $395 million, a huge increase over the $30 million price tag projected earlier. That cost includes maintenance dredging every five years, as well as an init...
At a virtual community meeting Feb. 15, Fairfax County officials explained why the dredging project that had been proposed to save Lake Accotink is no longer feasible.
County public works staff are recommending that “Lake Accotink not be dredged due to significant community and environmental impacts and excessive costs.”
A new analysis found the project would cost $395 million, a huge increase over the $30 million price tag projected earlier. That cost includes maintenance dredging every five years, as well as an initial dredge.
An in-person meeting covering the same information will be held this evening, at 7 p.m., at Kings Glen Elementary School in Springfield.
A final decision on the future of Lake Accotink will be made by the Board of Supervisors. The new recommendation, along with input from the public, will be presented to the BoS this spring after the public comment period ends on April 1.
Comments can be emailed to F515@Publicinput.com. A survey will be posted Friday on the project website.
A big disappointment
“We’re very disappointed. We’ve been working on this project for a lot of years,” said Board of Supervisors Chair Jeffrey McKay.
“There are folks angry about what they’ve heard. I’m angry, too,” said Braddock Supervisor James Walkinshaw. “We can’t sugarcoat it. The prognosis for this project is not good. The amount of sediment and cost is not a matter of opinion.”
Walkinshaw addressed a rumor that the county will sell the lake to a developer. “That is not going to happen. We don’t sell parkland to developers.”
Chris Herrington, director of the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services (DPWES), said he’s heard about “the deep connection people have had with Lake Accotink.”
The latest recommendation “will be extremely disappointing to you,” Herrington said. But “we cannot proceed with a full dredging of Lake Accotink.”
To fund the nearly $400 million cost of dredging, the county would have to raise taxes, he said. And there won’t be money for other more effective projects elsewhere to reduce flooding and retain stormwater.
The project would not be in line with policies adopted by the BoS on greenhouse gases, sustainability, efficient government, safety, and the environment, he said. The dredging project would require 50,000 greenhouse gas-emitting truckloads of sediment removed from the lake.
A future wetlands park
In lieu of dredging, county staff recommends the Park Authority carry out a new Master Plan development process for Lake Accotink Park.
The property will remain a park, said Charles Smith, the branch chief for stormwater planning at DPWES.
The lake will remain for the foreseeable future, but vegetation will gradually take over the margins and the lake will transform into wetlands, Smith said. He wouldn’t speculate on how soon that would happen, as it would depend on the severity of storms in future years.
A wetlands would dramatically increase the wildlife diversity and abundance in the park, Smith said. The lake currently has poor water quality and is not a good environment for fish.
Related story: Lake Accotink dredging project not likely to happen, due to increased cost
Both the original and updated studies looked at solutions to increase the depth of the lake to eight feet to ensure its viability for recreational uses. The depth currently ranges from one to four feet.
The dredging project called for building a pipeline to transfer the dredged material to a dewatering site and transporting the dried sediment by truck to an offsite location, explained environmental engineer Amanda Kohler of Arcadis, the consulting company that carried out both studies for the county.
A new analysis
Several community members at the meeting questioned how the cost estimate could have soared from $30 million to nearly $400 million.
“Some of the critical assumptions have changed,” said Herrington. “The initial analysis included low-cost disposal options and underestimated the amount of sediment.”
The latest study found 500,000 cubic yards of sediment would have to be removed during the initial dredging. The initial estimate was 360,000 cubic yards. Another 150,000 cubic yards would have to be removed every five years.
Among the two sites identified as the best options for dewatering, use of the maintenance facility in Wakefield Park would require clearing seven acres, Kohler said. That’s much larger than originally estimated. The other site, on Southern Drive, would require 190 trucks a day through neighborhood streets carrying sediment out of the area.
No good alternatives
Arkadis reconsidered one of the other initial options for saving the lake – creating a new offline smaller lake in the park.
According to county staff, that is “not a suitable alternative for lake management due to significant community and environmental impacts, unreasonable risk for long-term safety and maintenance, and high project costs.”
Creating a new smaller lake – about half the size of Lake Accotink – would require dredging 825,000 cubic yards of sediment from the existing lake, importing 340 cubic yards of fill dirt to construct an earthen berm, rechanneling Accotink Creek, removing part of the existing dam, and building a new dam. Kohler said.
That would cost about $192 million, not including maintenance, and might not be sustainable over the long term.
Without the dredging project, Smith said the county will still carry out stream restoration projects throughout the Accotink watershed.
The county would not be fined by the Environmental Protection Agency for sending more sediment to the Chesapeake Bay, he said. “Fairfax County is not compelled to maintain Lake Accotink.”
The vast majority of sediment is flushed out into flood plains in the system, he said. “We are not seeing a tremendous impact from sediment on downstream estuaries.”
“Given what we know now, managing this lake is extremely difficult and expensive,” he said. “It’s like digging a hole on the beach with water constantly coming in and filling it up.”
Some fireworks shows will be on July 1 and 2
Annandale Todayhttps://annandaletoday.com/some-fireworks-show-will-be-held-july-1-and-2/
Here’s where to see them:July 1 – Lake Fairfax Park, 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston. The Fairfax County Park Authority is hosting fireworks at 9:15. Ticketed entry to the park begins at noon, and the park will close to new arrivals at 8:45 p.m. Parking is $15 per vehicle in ...
Here’s where to see them:
July 1 – Lake Fairfax Park, 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston. The Fairfax County Park Authority is hosting fireworks at 9:15. Ticketed entry to the park begins at noon, and the park will close to new arrivals at 8:45 p.m. Parking is $15 per vehicle in advance and $20 at the gate. Food trucks will be there 12-9 p.m. Live music starts at 4 p.m.
July 1 – Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton. Fireworks start at 9:15 p.m. Gates open at 6 p.m. Live music, DJ, food trucks. Reserved parking is $40 per vehicle. VIP admission – including a wine-tasting reception, VIP lounge, and premium reserved seating, is $120 per person.
July 2 – Falls Church Independence Day Celebration and Fireworks, Meridian High School, 121 Mustang Alley, Falls Church. Fireworks start at 9:20 p.m. Live music starts at 7 p.m. Parking is extremely limited.
July 2 – Fairfax High School Stadium, 3501 Lion Run, Fairfax. Evening show hosted by the City of Fairfax features live music and fireworks, 6:30-10-30 p.m. Fireworks start at 9:30. Independence Day Parade on July 4, 10 a.m.-noon in downtown Fairfax.
July 2 – Vienna Independence Day Celebration and Fireworks, Yeonas Park, 1319 Ross Drive SW, Vienna. Fireworks start at 9:30 p.m. Kids activities 4-7 p.m. Live band at 7. Several food trucks and a concession stand.
July 2 – Langley High School, 6520 Georgetown Pike, McLean. Fireworks start at 9:15 p.m. Food trucks available at 6:30. Free parking and shuttles from nearby locations.
July 4 – Bready Park, Herndon, 814 Ferndale Ave., Herndon. Fireworks at 9:30. Live music and family games start at 6:30 p.m.
July 4 – National Mall, Washington, D.C. Fireworks start at 9:09 p.m. The Capitol Fourth concert starts at 8 at E. Capitol Street and First Street NW.
Other good spots to see the D.C. fireworks include the Kennedy Center Terrace, the Iwo Jima Memorial in Rosslyn, Hains Point at East Potomac Park, the U.S. Air Force Memorial, and Washington National Cathedral.
July 8 – The City of Alexandria’s Annual USA and City Birthday Celebration, Oronoco Bay Park, 100 Madison St., Alexandria. Fireworks start at 9:30 p.m. Live music starts at 6 p.m.
Students Find Their Passion In Fall Musical At Justice High School
Emily Leaymanhttps://patch.com/virginia/fallschurch/students-find-their-passion-fall-musical-justice-high-school
Justice High School's theatre cast and crew have pride in their upcoming musical as theatre recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic.LAKE BARCROFT, VA — Before high school students dazzle audiences with a musical or play each fall and spring, it takes a lot of preparation and rehearsals well in advance of the shows. The challenges of preparing for a production became harder during the COVID-19 pandemic, from decreased participation in extracurriculars to dealing with tighter budgets. In Fairfax County, Justice High School's Wolfpac...
Justice High School's theatre cast and crew have pride in their upcoming musical as theatre recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic.
LAKE BARCROFT, VA — Before high school students dazzle audiences with a musical or play each fall and spring, it takes a lot of preparation and rehearsals well in advance of the shows. The challenges of preparing for a production became harder during the COVID-19 pandemic, from decreased participation in extracurriculars to dealing with tighter budgets. In Fairfax County, Justice High School's Wolfpack Theatre hasn't been immune to those impacts.
But students say participation has grown as Justice High School prepares for its fall musical, "Disney's Beauty and the Beast." The cast and crew of about 90 people will put on the production from Nov. 9 to 11 as they hope to attract larger audiences to keep its theatre program afloat.
"Many theatre and performing arts departments across the county are working to restore our programs to pre-pandemic conditions," theatre teacher and director Jewel Schrader Orem told Patch. "But, [I am] happy to say this is by far the biggest show we have done in the last three years."
Schrader Orem said preparation for the fall musical began last spring when tech students developed designs for sets and program participants began collecting costumes. Over the summer, the teacher met with musical director Emi Eiting and choreographer Kendall Huheey to start planning the play. Casting took place in time for rehearsals to start in August.
"This is a joyous show to do, and it is wonderful to see the students coming together to create this wonderful production," said Schrader Orem. "It feels like theatre is finally back and here to celebrate life."
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Kyle Aylward, a sophomore, is making his musical debut as the Beast. He says preparing for the musical takes hours of rehearsal after school and practices the songs in his head other times. Working with his cast mates has been a positive experience, since they don't yell at each other when mistakes are made.
"It is my first musical and my nerves are off the charts. But I’m excited to try something new," Aylward told Patch.
Laura Stoker, who plays Lumiere and is also in charge of the TikTok account for the theatre program, has enjoyed making new friends and playing alongside her friend Maggie playing Cogsworth.
"I grew up watching this movie and I was actually the one who recommended we do this show so the fact that we're able to do it and make it happen is amazing," said Stoker.
Senior Elias (Elijah) Kassa, who is playing Gaston and is building crew supervisor, knew he wanted to play Gaston because it would be a fun role.
"For myself I spent almost my entire summer studying the music of the show, watching the original 1991 and live action movies, and watching an onstage performance of the very show at Chicago Shakespeare Theater," said Kassa. "I wanted to see the creative choices other people had made to see what I liked, what worked, and of course what didn’t work; then integrate the parts I liked while also bring my own flair as to not plagiarize an entire show or character portrayal."
Stephen Blackadar, an assistant stage manager and member of the crew, explained how it is "harder than one may expect" to prepare for performances.
"We've had to build many new set pieces for this show, purchase elaborate props and costumes, and prepare challenging lighting and sound situations, in addition to the many hours put into practicing each scene," said Blackadar. "Regardless, it is a very rewarding experience, especially as the show comes together at the end of the production."
Nour Abbas, a senior, playing Marie/Plate as well as crew roles, said "this show in particular has been putting us all to work." Parents and teachers have also contributed their time to help.
"Acting wise we have multiple days a week dedicated to vocal, dance, or blocking rehearsals," said Abbas. "Other than rehearsals we have our dedicated tech crews who have spent hours building and painting the set, making and finding props, sewing our amazing costumes, and stage management keeping us all in check and making sure everything runs smoothly."
For these students, theatre is a crucial school program helping them work toward career aspirations. For instance, Kassa is applying to collegiate acting programs and conservatories, including Juilliard.
"Theater, and more so the art of storytelling, has intrigued me from a young age and grown exponentially with age," said Kassa. "Through acting, through being in these stories, every show leaves a lesson, an imprint on what it means to be…human."
Schrader Orem said theatre teaches students how to present themselves confidently, speak to be heard, produce something from start to finish and work in groups. Students have the chance to learn specialized skills like graphic design, painting, set and lighting design and more.
"There's a lot of people in theater right now who want to peruse theater as their career so having this experience and opportunity to act is helping them build up their acting background and grow in all aspects of musical theater," added Stoker. "At the same time, theater is helping a lot of people who want to go into other careers by building communication and confidence skills and just having an experience of working on something big and putting hard work into it."
"Many students here at Justice are looking to pursue theatre as a professional career, and their unique dedication to the shows are very impressive to witness," added Blackadar. "From what I've seen, theater truly makes all those who participate better people."
The skills learned in theatre don't just benefit students pursuing theatre careers. Abbas, who wants to become a teacher, has experienced a confidence boost.
"Being a part of theatre really benefits you for life after high school. It gives you beneficial speaking skills and allows you to think critically and creatively," said Abbas. "Through acting and tech you learn fundamental skills of confidence, collaboration, and leadership. The work you produce is more than your own, it’s the dedication of a group."
The students encourage support for theatre and the arts. That starts with attending the fall musical.
"Supporting the arts is very important in schools because it gives kids a way to express themselves," said senior Sophia DePasquale. "It gives kids an automatic friend group and support system."
"It’s so important to have an outlet to hang out, be yourself and feel safe in school," The theatre gives that space," added Magdalena Briggs. "It allows students to be themselves and creative, and really create the character they want to be."
Kassa is excited to make "Beauty and the Beast" his final high school musical performance, as it is filled with "amazing songs," fun for adults and kids, and "Disney magic."
"I love this show to death and the fact that it’s my final musical in my high school career is a wondrous send off to what has quite possibly been the most fundamental and important part of my life this far," said Kassa.
To learn more about Wolfpack Theatre's "Disney's Beauty and the Beast," visit wolfpacktheatre.org.
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Campbell County residents create new tax district to support lake improvements
Tim Saundershttps://www.wdbj7.com/content/news/Campbell-County-residents-create-new-tax-district-to-support-lake-improvements-565348831.html
Not far from the heavy traffic of Timberlake Road sits a peaceful neighborhood lake - the road's namesake."It's just an oasis for those of us who live here," said Denise Gillett, president of the Timber Lake Homeowner's Association.Timber Lake was built in 1925, but in recent years it's been on the verge of extinction.When its dam collapsed in 1995, homeowners rallied to build a new, concrete structure in its place. That event was just the beginning of a much longer struggle to ensure the lake's survival....
Not far from the heavy traffic of Timberlake Road sits a peaceful neighborhood lake - the road's namesake.
"It's just an oasis for those of us who live here," said Denise Gillett, president of the Timber Lake Homeowner's Association.
Timber Lake was built in 1925, but in recent years it's been on the verge of extinction.
When its dam collapsed in 1995, homeowners rallied to build a new, concrete structure in its place. That event was just the beginning of a much longer struggle to ensure the lake's survival.
"After 1995 when the dam broke, this community recognized the need for a watershed improvement district," said Gillett.
Watershed Improvement Districts give homeowners in a designated community the ability to tax themselves for the purpose of making watershed improvements.
Earlier this week, people who live around Timber Lake voted by referendum to create only the second Watershed Improvement District in all of Virginia. The first was established by residents of Northern Virginia's Lake Barcroft in the mid-1970's.
138 residents of Timber Lake, approximately 83% of all the votes cast, chose to allow the new improvement district to levy a tax. A similar amount chose to give the district power to take on debt or issue bonds.
"The watershed improvement district affords us the ability to tax ourselves at a little bit higher rate, so that it is fair and equitable to everyone who lives and has shoreline on the lake," Gillett explained.
Money from the tax increase will be used for dredging, something homeowners say is desperately needed to eliminate the buildup of sediment. In some areas of the lake, so much sediment has washed downstream that sandbars have developed.
Dredging will cost half a million dollars. With the new tax district in place, the work is scheduled to begin in February.
Having spent nearly 25 years working toward the create of their new tax district, Gillett said the homeowners of Timber Lake are ready to offer advice to other interested groups who might see a similar arrangement as beneficial to the preservation of their own lakes.
"If you are a lake community and you are having conservation issues, get your community together and look into this process," Gillett said. "It's only going to be helpful and beneficial toward maintaining the conservation of your lake."
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