
There's a common misconception that elderly men are the only ones with low testosterone or imbalanced hormones. According to the Cleveland Clinic, however, data shows that many men including men in their 40s and 50s suffer from low testosterone and sub-optimal testosterone around the world.. The truth is you don't have to be on your "last legs" to suffer from low testosterone.
In reality, as men get closer to 30, it's common for their testosterone levels to drop. When that happens, their lives and bodies change. Life may not seem as colorful or as exciting. Getting out of bed without aches and pains is rare. Finding the motivation to get up, go to work, and come home with a pep in your step is easier said than done. And for many men, the ultimate embarrassment occurs - they lose the ability to perform intimately in the bedroom.
If you're one of the millions of men with unexplained fatigue, weight gain especially abdominal fat, inability to put on muscle in the gym, decreased mental sharpness, increased anxiety or even erectile dysfunction, you may think that all hope is lost. But nothing could be further from the truth. Thanks to decades of trials and research, male health centers like Proactive Wellness are equipped with cutting-edge, FDA-approved medications and procedures to restore your hormones to optimal levels. It's called testosterone replacement therapy, or TRT for short, and it's giving men around the country renewed hope for a normal, meaningful life.
But to understand the incredible benefits of TRT in Franconia, VA, it's important to know about testosterone and how it works in your body.
About Understanding Testosterone
What comes to mind when you think about the word "testosterone"? For many people, testosterone is associated with men who are overtly aggressive or macho. And while testosterone has an effect on a male's vigor and motivation, it plays a much more important role than the average person thinks. The truth about testosterone is that it is a crucial hormone for male development that affects men from the time they go through puberty to the time they pass away.
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As their primary androgen, testosterone helps men develop common male characteristics and is essential in the production of sperm. Controlled by your body's pituitary gland and hypothalamus, testosterone helps develop and maintain:

Muscle Mass

Facial and Body Hair

Sex Organs

Healthy Libido

Bone Density

Sexual Function

Healthy Red Blood Cell Levels
When low testosterone or hypogonadism occurs, however, males begin to notice concerning symptoms that often affect their everyday lives and romantic relationships.
Causes What Causes Low Testosterone?
Also called low T, lower testosterone levels are most often caused by aging. When testosterone levels deplete in this manner, it occurs naturally - just about every man will experience lower levels of testosterone as they get older. However, other causes of low T also exist, including drug abuse, obesity, prescribed meds, testicle injuries and even taking certain bodybuilding supplements.
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When men lose significant amounts of testosterone, it alters their body's levels of testosterone and estrogen. Lower T levels usually result in abdominal fat, which in turn causes estrogen synthetize levels to increase, creating even higher levels of estrogen in the body. With more estrogen and less testosterone, a number of concerning issues begin to surface. Some of the symptoms of low testosterone include:
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Lowered Libido
- Lowered Sperm Count
- More Body Fat
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Issues with Concentration
- Male Breast Development
- Less Muscle Mass
- Motivation Issues
If you're a man struggling with one or more of the symptoms above, it could be because you have low testosterone. But the only way you can find out for sure is to have your testosterone levels tested by a wellness center like Proactive Wellness. If your testosterone levels are low, TRT in Franconia, VA, may be the answer to your low-T problems.
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Understanding The Symptoms of Low Testosterone
Are you starting to notice that you don't feel like "you" when you're at home or at work? Do you feel tired and lethargic all the time, even in your free time away from the office? Many men mistake these symptoms for being too sleepy or too busy. But the truth is, they're suffering from low testosterone. Since no two males will have the same symptoms of low T, it's prudent to recognize and understand some of the most common signs:

Erectile Dysfunction
If there were two words that all men wish to avoid, it's these two. Being unable to perform in the most intimate moments isn't just embarrassing - it can affect long-term relationships and mental health. It's a difficult topic to talk about. But it doesn't have to be. Our experts are ready to help you re-light that special spark.

Low Libido
When you have low testosterone, sometimes the thought of having sex just isn't appealing. If you're one of the many men in the U.S. who lacks sex drive, it might not be you. I could be low testosterone. Don't settle for a mediocre sex drive - reclaim your vigor at Proactive Wellness Centers.

Lack of Sleep
Do you work hard every day and come home exhausted, only to find that you toss and turn all night long? Whether you have undiagnosed insomnia or another sleep disorder, it could be linked to low T.



Less Strength and Muscle Mass
When testosterone levels deplete as we age, men lose their ability to lift heavy items, even with weightlifting routines in the gym. If you're making a concerted effort to maintain your muscle mass and strength but aren't making gains, it could be due to low T.

Depression
Your brain is home to many testosterone receptors, but when your body has low T, it can affect your mood. With time, poor spirits can lead to serious psychological issues, like depression. However, studies show that TRT in Franconia, VA, can rebalance your hormones, which can help relieve depression and improve your mood.

Lack of Concentration
Do you find it hard to complete normal tasks when you're at work? Does it seem like your memory is fading? Does your spouse or significant other complain that you're not paying attention to them? The effects of low testosterone don't just affect your body - they can affect your mind and memory, too. When your testosterone levels are within normal range, brain fog and other concentration issues have been shown to go away.

What are the Risks of Living with Low Testosterone?
At Proactive Wellness Centers, we understand what men must go through daily when they have low testosterone. They suffer from fatigue and lack motivation and often don't feel like their usual selves. But as bad as those symptoms sound, living with low T can have more severe health risks that that put vital organs at risk. Some of the most concerning health risks you should be aware of include the following:
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Some of the most concerning health risks you should be aware of include the following:


Heart Health
If you've been told by a doctor that you have high blood pressure, you're probably wondering what it stems from. Is it aging? Is it hereditary? Is it something else? According to academic research, men with low T have a higher chance of developing cardiovascular illnesses. When testosterone levels are low, red blood cell reproduction suffers. When that happens, plaque buildup in your arteries may be accelerated. With time, plaque building can lead to very serious problems like strokes and heart attacks.

Anemia
When you have anemia, your body has a lack of or dysfunctional red blood cells, meaning your organs have less oxygen with which to function. Because testosterone has a role in healthy red blood cell production, it makes sense that men with low t have a higher risk of anemia. In fact, a 2009 study found that older men with low T are 5x more likely to be anemic than men with healthy levels of testosterone. While TRT in Franconia, VA, isn't a cure for anemia, it will help produce more red blood cells in your body, which can prevent anemia.

Diabetes
If you have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes or diabetes, and you're trying to figure out why, it may be linked to your T levels. That's because men with low testosterone have a greater chance of developing diabetes as they age. Similarly, men with diabetes are much more likely to have low testosterone, establishing a relationship between diabetes and testosterone. This relationship is further solidified by the fact that men with low T have a more challenging time resisting insulin. Though TRT won't cure diabetes, studies show that men with healthy testosterone levels also have healthier blood sugar levels and are often less obese.

Obesity
If you look in the mirror in the morning and can't stand how much body fat you've gained since getting older, you're not alone. Many aging men have problems with their waistlines. If you eat well and exercise regularly but still can't get rid of that unsightly stomach or body fat, the culprit may be low testosterone. Multiple studies have shown the link between obesity and low T. In fact, testosterone plays an important role in food metabolism by regulating insulin, glucose, and fat. Fortunately, when combined with diet and exercise, men who undergo TRT can often lose weight and enjoy improved blood glucose and low-density cholesterol levels.
Enjoy Life to the Fullest with TRT in Franconia, VA

Testosterone replacement therapy does precisely what it sounds like: It is a science-backed therapy that replaces low testosterone levels in men. The ultimate goal of TRT is to improve your life and well-being by balancing your hormones. Also referred to as androgen replacement therapy, TRT helps many men deal with and overcome the debilitating side effects of low T.
Originally developed by scientists in the 1930s, TRT has grown substantially in popularity over the years. Today, it is one of the most common and promising treatments for males with low testosterone.
How Does TRT Work?
Without getting too scientific, TRT works by providing your body with the testosterone it needs to function properly. Without healthy levels of testosterone, the male body can't maintain the natural processes it needs for overall health. In fact, men with low testosterone levels are more prone to serious health problems like type-2 diabetes and even heart disease. Until their T levels are restored to normal, most men suffer until they find a solution.
That's where TRT comes into play. With balanced hormones, your body can finally begin to heal, causing most symptoms of low t to diminish greatly.
The Proactive Wellness Approach to TRT in Franconia, VA
At Proactive Wellness Centers, our team utilizes a three-pronged approach to healing and treatment:
Patient Education. We equip you with the knowledge needed to take charge of your health and achieve optimal well-being in your life.
Prevention. We focus on preventing diseases by providing you with a thorough evaluation, which includes comprehensive diagnostics and the information you provide on your health history form.
Rejuvenation. Lastly, we work closely with you to implement a rejuvenation program consisting of several science-based treatments that aim to promote tissue regeneration, reduce cellular degeneration, foster healing, and slow your aging process.
Because no two patients ever have the exact same needs and treatment, your journey to journey to optimal health will be unique and tailored to your body.
However, to give you a brief snapshot of the average patient's TRT timeline may look like this:
Getting Started:
You contact our TRT clinic in Virginia. Based on your schedule, we'll arrange for a time for you to come in for your initial assessment.
Diagnostics and Evaluation:
One of our diagnostic experts will complete comprehensive testing to discover your testosterone and related hormone levels and your best treatment options.
Review Testing:
We'll sit with you one-on-one to discuss the results of your lab tests. During this session, a medical practitioner will also answer any questions you have about low T and testosterone replacement therapy.
Begin Your Custom TRT Regimen:
Based on your lifestyle, goals, and test results, we'll craft a custom TRT plan exclusively for you.
Success Coaching:
When you undergo TRT at Proactive Wellness Centers, you're never alone. We'll be by your side the entire way to ensure your treatment is going well and you're hitting your benchmarks. We'll keep track of your progress, and if there are areas that need improvement, we'll work with you to accomplish the goals you haven't achieved yet. Because, at the end of the day, a little bit of encouragement can go a long way.
Enjoy the Results:
This is the best part! With time and care, you'll begin to notice the effects of TRT and will be well on your way to enjoying balanced hormones.

Trust The Proactive Wellness Difference
Did you know that 13 million males suffer from low T, but a whopping 90% go untreated by doctors? The reason is that conventional doctors believe that unless your Testosterone level is below the low lab reference range level, that your are "OK". At Proactive Wellness, we help you to optimize and be the best you can be, not just OK. Why be OK, when with the help of the right Testosterone dose, you can feel better, be healthier, stronger and more vibrant. If you believe that your testosterone levels are at unhealthy levels, it's time to contact Proactive Wellness Centers for testing. Living with low testosterone is a risk, but with personalized TRT in Franconia, VA, you can minimize the harmful effects on your body.
Unlike other TRT clinics, we utilize a more complete and personalized approach to Testosterone Replacement Therapy. Our approach considers the role of DHEA, another very important hormone that needs to be balanced. And we look at Estradiol conversion, the unwanted effect where some men convert too much Testosterone to estradiol. In this case, these men (about 10%) need a medication to block this conversion, called an aromatase inhibitor. But notice that I mentioned that only 10% of men need this, but at many men's clinics, all men automatically get an aromatase inhibitor whether they need it or not. This drives Estradiol too low, causing other issues. Yes, Men need Estradiol also, but they need it in the proper proportion. Bottom line, our personalized approach ensures that you get exactly what you need, no more and no less.
Further, Proactive Wellness offers the widest range of Testosterone Replacement options so that men can choose the best for their particular lifestyle. Choose from pellets that are inserted just under the skin and last for 4-5 months, or the most popular option, Test Cypionate injections that are typically done weekly, or specialized transdermal cream or even a specialized intranasal application that mimics natural testosterone levels. Any of these methods are available at Proactive Wellness Centers so that you can get the option that is right for you.
Is testosterone replacement therapy enough? Maybe, it all depends on your goals and your lab results. Many men are also deficient in growth hormone (GH) and this hormone can also contribute to you not being your best. If this one is low, Proactive Wellness offers a range of Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone (GHRH) peptides to increase your GH levels. Many men combine this with TRT to feel their absolute best.
If you're ready to reclaim your confidence and return to loving life on your own terms, our physicians and medical team are ready to help. Don't be one of those men who constantly complain about their health but don't do anything about it. Contact Proactive Wellness Centers today to make a difference in your life!

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Latest News in Franconia, VA
Most Anticipated Store Openings Coming to Northern Virginia in 2023
Molly Williamshttps://northernvirginiamag.com/style/shopping/2023/02/10/new-stores-northern-virginia-2023/
New openings range from virtual reality experiences to luxury clothing and jewelry to practicing golf indoors.While we can’t wait for the region’s new restaurants to open, we are equally excited for all of the new stores coming to Northern Virginia. The new openings in 2023 include luxury brands, boutiques, and virtual reality and movie theaters....
New openings range from virtual reality experiences to luxury clothing and jewelry to practicing golf indoors.
While we can’t wait for the region’s new restaurants to open, we are equally excited for all of the new stores coming to Northern Virginia. The new openings in 2023 include luxury brands, boutiques, and virtual reality and movie theaters.
Sandbox VR
This summer, a new virtual reality experience offers guests the chance to step into an action movie sequence. Motion-tracking technology transports players into action-packed scenarios, where they’ll have to work as a team to navigate their journey. The Boro Tysons: 8350 Broad St., Tysons
Lego Discovery Center
The Lego experience is making its way to Fairfax County this summer. Inventive young minds can let their imaginations can come to life as they build, play, and explore inside the 32,000-square-foot attraction. Springfield Town Center: 6500 Franconia-Springfield Pkwy., Springfield
Dior
Luxury continues to arrive in Northern Virginia. This fashion, fragrance, and beauty brand is joining the ranks at Tysons Galleria this year. It accompanies other high-end stores like Chanel, Saint Laurent, and the recently opened Balenciaga. Tysons Galleria: 2001 International Dr., McLean
Panerai, IWC, Breitling
With over 160 years experience and a wide array of styles, these authentic Swiss watches are truly an investment. Stop by Tysons Galleria to browse these high end timepieces. Tysons Galleria: 2001 International Dr., McLean
Kendra Scott
If you or someone you know is a lover of shiny things, this shop is just for you. According to its website, Kendra Scott’s brand focuses on offering quality gemstone jewelry at an affordable price point, with the goal of making style and luxury accessible for all shoppers. Tysons Corner Center: 1961 Chain Bridge Rd., Tysons
Clean Origin
In an effort to combat environmental and humanitarian crises, Clean Origin makes products with real, lab-grown diamonds instead of extracting from mines. That way, you or someone you love can wear innovative jewelry that looks great. Tysons Corner Center: 1961 Chain Bridge Rd., Tysons
Azzurri Kitchen and Bath
Is home improvement on your 2023 to-do list? This soon-to-open kitchen store offers everything you need to upgrade your space with modern, state of the art designs. Azzuri’s brand focuses on today’s interior trends through a traditional European lens, producing sophisticated designs that are made in America. Tysons Galleria: 2001 International Dr., McLean
Range
Brent and Kim Wensel use globally-sourced materials like textiles and décor to create unique, vibrant designs inspired by their travels. This spring, they’re bringing a collection that features handmade goods from Marrakesh, Oaxaca, and Mexico City to Northern Virginia shoppers looking to add a fresh and sustainable touch to their homes. 18 W. Market St., Leesburg
CitySwing
So, you want to learn a new skill. CitySwing takes pride in offering golf for all people, from true beginners to lifelong players. Northern Virginia residents can take a swing at things this year, as the inclusive golf brand opens its first indoor center in the area. It’s open to all levels, so why not try it out? Reston Town Center: 11900 Market St., Reston
LOOK Cinemas
Reston residents can upgrade movie night at this state of the art theater coming this March. Here, going to the movies is truly an experience, offering guests amenities like luxury seating and mobile ordering snacks. Reston Town Center: 11940 Market St., Reston
Leesburg Beads and Studio
Are you itching for a new hobby? Try making your own jewelry. This bead shop and craft studio opens Saturday, February 11. It’s offering a wide array of in-store art supplies, as well as occasional trunk shows featuring bead vendors from around the country. If you’re interested in a hands-on experience, workshops will be available. 12 Sycolin Rd. SE, Leesburg
Feature image courtesy Tysons Corner Center
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Fairfax County Officially Renames the Lee District as Franconia
fairfaxcounty.govhttps://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/news/fairfax-county-officially-renames-lee-district-franconia
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors officially renamed the Lee District as the Franconia District on Dec. 6. The board adopted the new name following a public hearing at its meeting today. The change is effective immediately, and other county facilities also will be renamed. “Today’s action is an important statement about our values as a community,” said Board of Supervisors ...
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors officially renamed the Lee District as the Franconia District on Dec. 6. The board adopted the new name following a public hearing at its meeting today. The change is effective immediately, and other county facilities also will be renamed.
“Today’s action is an important statement about our values as a community,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeffrey C. McKay. “We can’t change our history, but we can decide what in our history is worth celebrating and what is worth learning from to always do better. Franconia is a recognizable, richly diverse area, an area I have been proud to have lived in my entire life. This new name ensures our county continues to be a welcoming community to all people."
“Franconia has been central to the district’s identity for decades, and the name is synonymous with the community,” said Franconia District Supervisor Rodney Lusk. “During our three renaming town halls, it was clear that the overwhelming majority of participants supported changing the name to Franconia. From the Franconia Governmental Center, Franconia Road, to the Franconia-Springfield Metro, the new name celebrates a place, not a person. Thank you to the hundreds of constituents that contacted my office or participated in this year-long process. I look forward to beginning this new chapter in our community,”
While there is no conclusive historical evidence that the district was named after General Robert E. Lee, many residents perceived that it commemorated one of the most recognizable figures in Confederate history.
Other county facilities and districts that will be renamed include the:
The move to change the district’s name began when Supervisor Lusk launched a community conversation town hall on the potential renaming last March. The renaming process continued through the county’s legally required redistricting effort. After the Redistricting Advisory Committee’s work to recommend new maps for county electoral districts, the board reappointed the group this January to consider which districts should be renamed. The committee suggested that the Board of Supervisors consider a “community driven process that evaluates the names of magisterial districts and precincts to bring greater equity to bear in Fairfax County.” The committee also recommended that the Lee District be changed, although the group was not tasked with coming up with new names.
State law gives the Board of Supervisors the authority to name its districts, and this is not the first time that district names have changed over the years. For example, the Board of Supervisors renamed the Falls Church District as Annandale in 1967, and as a result of redistricting in 1991, the Annandale District was changed to Braddock.
Metro lifts parking fees at Franconia and Huntington stations, starting next month
Matt Blitzhttps://www.ffxnow.com/2022/08/02/metro-lifts-parking-fees-at-franconia-and-huntington-stations-starting-next-month/
(Updated at 10:45 a.m. on 11/3/2022) Metro is waiving fares on a local bus line and parking fees at several stations starting next month because of upcoming construction.On Sept. 10, all Blue and Yellow stations south of the DCA Metro station ...
(Updated at 10:45 a.m. on 11/3/2022) Metro is waiving fares on a local bus line and parking fees at several stations starting next month because of upcoming construction.
On Sept. 10, all Blue and Yellow stations south of the DCA Metro station will close for two major projects to complete the new Potomac Yard Station and repair the Yellow Line bridge and tunnel. The closure is expected to last six weeks, until Oct. 22.
The Metro Board of Directors voted late last week to waive all fees for those six weeks at the three stations with parking lots — Van Dorn Street, Huntington, and Franconia-Springfield. This is to allow riders to use the free shuttle service that’s being offered.
At the Franconia station, parking fees for non-riders will be waived until early summer 2023, when the Yellow Line bridge rehabilitation is expected to finish. This is to “encourage use of the Metrobus or Virginia Railway Express, transit alternatives available at Franconia-Springfield.”
(Correction: This article previously said parking fees would be waived at all three stations for the duration of construction.)
The board also did away with fares on the bus rapid transit Metroway-Potomac Yard Line through Oct. 22.
All of this came at the urging of Fairfax County staff, notes the Metro report.
While the waiving of the $4.95 parking fee and bus fare will save riders money, it will cost Metro nearly $611,000 in lost revenue, per the report.
Expected to open to riders in late fall, the Potomac Yard Metro station in Alexandria will serve both the Blue and Yellow lines. In September, new tracks will be constructed to connect the station to the main tracks along with performance and safety testing.
The Yellow Line Tunnel and Bridge rehab project will shut down the line for longer. That work is expected to take eight months, so the Yellow Line won’t operate again in Virginia until at least May 2023.
In June, Metro announced several alternative methods to get commuters where they need to go. That includes free shuttle service and increased Blue Line service for the first six weeks.
Then, on Oct. 22, all the Blue Line stations will reopen, and service will extend to Huntington until May 2023.
Fairfax County Board of Supervisors renames Lee District to Franconia District
7News Staffhttps://wjla.com/news/local/fairfax-county-renames-robert-e-lee-district-to-franconia-confederacy-name-changes-racism-black-history-board-of-supervisors
FRANCONIA, Va. (7News) — The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Tuesday afternoon to rename the Lee District to Franconia.Supervisor Rodney L. Lusk introduced a board matter to start the process to initiate the name change after he spoke with the community.In a statement, Lusk said: "Over the last two and a half years, my office has held three town hall meetings to hear directly from the community on what the name Lee District means to them. Through these discussions, I've learned that for many...
FRANCONIA, Va. (7News) — The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Tuesday afternoon to rename the Lee District to Franconia.
Supervisor Rodney L. Lusk introduced a board matter to start the process to initiate the name change after he spoke with the community.
In a statement, Lusk said: "Over the last two and a half years, my office has held three town hall meetings to hear directly from the community on what the name Lee District means to them. Through these discussions, I've learned that for many of our neighbors, the name Lee District invokes images of the Old Gravel Pits, footsteps along the boardwalk at Huntley Meadows, or pride in the history of Laurel Grove School.
However, for others, the name Lee stands for the most recognizable confederate figure in history, General Robert E Lee. I also learned that the overwhelming majority of those who participated in this year-long process support changing the name of this district."
RELATED | City of Fairfax may change 14 street names because of hurtful ties to Confederacy, slavery
His statement continued: "After considering the feedback that my office has received from the community, the recommendations from the Redistricting Advisory Committee, and after much contemplation, it is my personal conclusion that the time has come to change the name of our district.
This Tuesday, I will be introducing a Board Matter requesting that my colleagues join me in voting to adopt Franconia as the new name of our district. The name Franconia was the overwhelming preference for those who participated in this process.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: 'Symbols do matter': Debate begins over changing name of Lee District in Fairfax County
Franconia is a name that is synonymous with our community. From Franconia Road, the Franconia Springfield Metro, the Franconia Museum, and the Franconia Governmental Center, the name Franconia has always been central to our identity. It is also a name that memorializes a place and not a person."
Thank you to the hundreds of constituents that wrote letters, sent emails, called our office, and participated in our three town halls. I look forward to bringing this motion to the Board on Tuesday and beginning this new chapter in our community.
READ MORE | Task force votes to recommend name changes for two Fairfax highways named for Confederates
In response to the name change, Fairfax County Democratic Committee (FCDC) Chair Bryan Graham said, “Fairfax County is a diverse, welcoming place to call home. Our institutions of government should reflect the values of equity and inclusion, not be named after families with ties to the failed Confederacy.”
Franconia District Democratic Committee Chair Kathy Rhem praised Lusk’s efforts and said the new name reflects a positive future for the district.
“I appreciate Supervisor Lusk’s thoughtful and collaborative process to arrive at this new name. This change comes at a great time for our committee, as our officers and dedicated volunteers have been working hard to redouble our efforts to elect candidates truly committed to liberty and justice for all,” Rhem said.
The County Executive is expected to make sure the name change moves forward and any updates are made.
Voters can expect to see the name change reflected on the ballot when they go to vote for District Supervisor and School Board Representative in November 2023.
13 Additional Early Voting Locations to Open Starting Oct. 27
fairfaxcounty.govhttps://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/news/13-additional-early-voting-locations-open-starting-oct-27
Fairfax County will open an additional 13 early voting sites starting Thursday, Oct. 27.In total, there will be 16 voting locations available across the county until the last day to vote early on Nov. 5 at 5 p.m. Early voting began last month starting with three sites open.Every...
Fairfax County will open an additional 13 early voting sites starting Thursday, Oct. 27.
In total, there will be 16 voting locations available across the county until the last day to vote early on Nov. 5 at 5 p.m. Early voting began last month starting with three sites open.
Every early voting site will be open on weekdays from 1 to 7 p.m. — except for the Fairfax County Government Center. Longer hours are offered at this location from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Any voter may cast their ballot early without needing a reason or excuse.
Early voting also will be offered at all locations on two Saturdays, Oct. 29 and Nov. 5, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For the second time ever, the county also will offer voting hours on a Sunday: Oct. 30, from 1 to 5 p.m.
In total, 16 early voting locations will be offered until early voting ends on Nov. 5:
Except for the Fairfax County Government Center, weekday voting hours at every site will be from 1 to 7 p.m.
The Nov. 8 election is for the U.S. House of Representatives:
For Town of Herndon residents, the mayor and council are also up for election.
As a result of redistricting, which is a legally required process to adjust election districts every 10 years, voters may find that their congressional district has changed. Before going to vote, double check your district by looking up your voter information on the state’s online portal or call the Office of Elections at 703-222-0776, TTY 711.
Voters in the towns of Clifton, Herndon and Vienna should be aware that the state recently sent a mailing that incorrectly identified their polling places. To correct the state's mistake, the Fairfax County Office of Elections is mailing a letter to these town voters with their correct polling place.
A new state law now allows same day voter registration for anyone who is eligible to vote. To register before Election Day, go to any early voting site during the hours they're open or the Fairfax County Office of Elections to fill out a voter registration application. Same day registration is also available on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 8. On Election Day, however, you must register at the polling place for the precinct where you live. Call the Office of Elections to determine your precinct and polling place if you aren't sure.
By state law, voters who register same day must vote a provisional ballot, and the Fairfax County Electoral Board will determine which provisional ballots are counted. (Provisional votes are not included in the election night results, and the board does not consider these ballots until after Election Day.)
For questions or more information, contact the Fairfax County Office of Elections at 703-222-0776, TTY 711, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays.
Fairfax County leaders say market report shows growth, economic potential for Springfield area
Acacia Jameshttps://www.insidenova.com/headlines/fairfax-county-leaders-say-market-report-shows-growth-economic-potential-for-springfield-area/article_d0d31af8-a649-11ed-a412-c7c195d780ed.html
More than eight years after Springfield Town Center's emergence, leaders in Fairfax County have high hopes for the area's future following a study highlighting the potential for mixed-use growth and development.Fairfax County Supervisor Rodney Lusk of the Franconia District requested the Springfield-Franconia market study and told InsideNoVa that a comprehensive plan for the Springfield marke...
More than eight years after Springfield Town Center's emergence, leaders in Fairfax County have high hopes for the area's future following a study highlighting the potential for mixed-use growth and development.
Fairfax County Supervisor Rodney Lusk of the Franconia District requested the Springfield-Franconia market study and told InsideNoVa that a comprehensive plan for the Springfield market area was last completed around 2005. He said the current language in the plan includes high-intensity construction of offices and hotels and very little about residential units.
"And what we've seen over the last few years is that the office market isn't as robust as it was in the past and that we've not been able to have a developer come forward and say they want to execute on that plan language," Lusk said.
According to the study, conducted by consultants HR&A, Springfield has not added any multifamily units in over 20 years. That finding surprised Lusk, who knew there was a lack of residential construction but was unaware of how long it had been.
"I think what this does is allows us to have a conversation with the community so that the community can kind of review the study and understand the findings, but then also for us to think about what do we do differently with the plan language," he said.
Springfield has 978 multifamily housing units, 1,843 hotel rooms, 3.2 million square feet of retail space, and 2.7 million square feet of office space, according to the study, which also highlighted a significant opportunity for mid-rise multifamily development in areas where office space was approved.
Despite the need for more residential units, Lusk said the area is seeing momentum following the region's first LEGO Discovery Center opening in Springfield this summer, the expansion of Inova's Springfield campus and the construction of a commuter parking garage.
"If you look at the mixture of restaurants that we have, it's becoming a dining and entertainment destination. And that's going to be good for travelers as well as workers,” Lusk said.
The study stated that the lack of mixed-use areas would limit the long-term attractiveness of other uses. However, it said shopping centers are performing well in the area and have a low vacancy– a finding that Lusk said speaks to its potential.
"From my standpoint, we have all the amenities that exist in this community. We have the movie theaters, we've got the town center, we've got the metro," he said, adding that those features will help attract younger people to the area.
In the past, the area's affordability attracted regional tourists and business travelers. Still, the report said a decline in business travel would require a stronger focus on tourists to support occupancy.
It also highlighted the area's affordability in comparison to surrounding areas.
"Springfield offers value and more affordable space relative to Arlington or D.C., which it can use to its advantage to attract growth, particularly as there are continued market pressures in central locations," the report said.
Unlike other studies, this report also included an implementation plan. Victor Hoskins, president and CEO of Fairfax County's Economic Development Authority, said they needed direction to move development forward.
"They not only identified the demand, they identified ways of pursuing the demand, which is really important," Hoskins said.
Hoskins also said the authority considers the area a turnaround environment due to the newfound potential.
"The Economic Development Authority obviously was involved in the TSA headquarters, which is not very far away from here, and there is a potential for other tenants like that that can come into the area," he said
Lusk said there are several steps before implementing any of the recommendations, including putting together a group of people from the county's Department of Revitalization, the Economic Development Authority and the Department of Planning and Zoning.
"So we can start to look at the beginning of an implementation strategy plan,” he said, “and we want to start making those recommendations a reality."
Acacia James covers Fairfax County with a focus on affordable housing, access to transportation and other issues affecting underserved communities.
Top news and notes from around Northern Virginia and beyond.
5. Bill dies
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4. Diverted to Dulles
A Lufthansa flight traveling from Texas to Germany was diverted to Virginia’s Washington Dulles International Airport on Wednesday evening because of turbulence that left some passengers injured, an airport spokesperson told the Associated Press.
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2. More retirements
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1. Military spouse hiring
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InsideOut
Join ARTfactory and Rooftop Productions on Saturday for an evening of comedy and improv with the Pun-Demics. Doors open at 7 p.m. The ARTfactory is 9419 Battle St. in Old Town Manassas. See InsideNoVaTix.com for tickets and more information.
So long, 'Lee District'; welcome aboard, 'Franconia District'
BRIAN TROMPETERhttps://www.insidenova.com/news/fairfax/so-long-lee-district-welcome-aboard-franconia-district/article_c55c0a9e-fc54-11ec-8d56-9b26b96a9062.html
Of the nine Fairfax County magisterial districts that could be renamed to suit modern sensibilities better, Lee District springs to mind as an obvious choice.Lee District was one of two (the other being Sully) that the Fairfax County Redistricting Advisory Committee this spring suggested should be renamed and Supervisor Rodney Lusk (D-Lee) on June 28 proposed giving the district the new name of Franconia.“The name Franconia has always been central to our identity,” said Lusk, citing Franconia Road, the Franconia-Spr...
Of the nine Fairfax County magisterial districts that could be renamed to suit modern sensibilities better, Lee District springs to mind as an obvious choice.
Lee District was one of two (the other being Sully) that the Fairfax County Redistricting Advisory Committee this spring suggested should be renamed and Supervisor Rodney Lusk (D-Lee) on June 28 proposed giving the district the new name of Franconia.
“The name Franconia has always been central to our identity,” said Lusk, citing Franconia Road, the Franconia-Springfield Metro station, Franconia Governmental Center and Franconia Museum.
“It’s a name that makes sense, it’s a name that our community has embraced and it’s a name that memorializes a place and not a person,” he said.
Supervisors unanimously approved Lusk’s motion to have County Executive Bryan Hill formally begin the process to change the district’s name from Lee to Franconia and report back to the board on any administrative changes necessary and possible financial impacts, plus a timeline for the renaming’s adoption.
Supervisors also directed Hill to have county staff conduct public outreach to community groups and businesses that might be affected by the planned renaming and recommend strategies for helping the affected parties during the transition.
The School Board earlier had stripped the name of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee from a high school in Springfield, renaming the facility John Lewis High School.
For many, the name Lee District “evokes visions of the old gravel pits or the sound of footsteps on the boardwalk at Huntley Meadows or pride in the history of Laurel Grove School or so many of the other things that make our community what it is,” Lusk said.
“However, for many, the name Lee District evokes another set of imagery,” he continued. “Whether design or by accident – and we may never know by which that it is – the name stands as a lasting monument to the most recognizable Confederate figure in history.”
While no one on the Board of Supervisors, or likely anyone in the community, reveres Lee District’s name because of that association, “simply not celebrating the connotation does not erase the echoes of slavery, racism, segregation and discrimination that it evokes in many of our neighbors,” Lusk said.
Lusk attended three town-hall meetings that drew hundreds of residents and discussed the district’s history and etymology, what it meant to the public and possible alternative names. Each meeting kicked off with a presentation by a Virginia Room historian from Fairfax Library.
Lusk said he was impressed by the civil manner in which community members expressed their opinions on the subject and listened to others’ viewpoints. The public overwhelmingly supported changing the district’s name to Franconia, he said.
Supervisor Penelope Gross (D-Mason) called Lusk’s renaming proposal a “very elegant solution.”
Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeff McKay (D), who long has lived in Lee District and formerly represented it on the board, said the district is highly diverse, opening and welcoming.
The proposed renaming is “recognizing a geographic area that is at the root of the history of that community, instead of tied back to a specific person or something much more controversial,” McKay said.
McKay said he expected the county would come up with a grant program to help those affected by the name change, especially non-profits.
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Gainesville resident Kara Klaas said her home is located in what was formerly known as Prince William County’s “rural crescent.”
But her neighborhood now sits on the edge of the PW Digital Gateway – soon to be home to 27.6 million square feet of data centers across 2,139 acres along Pageland Lane – which Klaas fears may jeopardize her family’s health if the facilities are allowed to continuously run diesel generators for several hours a day.
“The health, safety and well-being of our children, of our vulnerable populations and us adults who just want a nice place to live are at risk, and for what – for corporate greed,” Klaas said during a Virginia Department of Environmental Quality public hearing regarding a proposed variance that would suspend air emissions rules to allow between 100-150 data centers in Prince William, Loudoun and Fairfax Counties to run approximately 4,000 diesel generators to power its facilities in the event of a power grid failure.
On Monday, dozens of residents and nonprofit environmental representatives from across the region descended upon the agency’s northern regional office in Woodbridge to oppose the temporary variance, which would last from mid-March to July 31. Many also demanded answers from agency officials regarding what impact the generators would have on air quality, if officials considered alternative power sources and whether the variance is only temporary or will repeat.
Challenge meeting power demand
Last July, Dominion Energy alerted several stakeholders, including data centers, the Department of Environmental Quality and the regional grid operator PJM it would have trouble meeting the demands for power in eastern Loudoun County – home to the largest concentration of data centers in the world, totaling 25 million square feet – due to strains on the utility’s transmission infrastructure.
Aaron Ruby, media relations manager for Dominion Energy, said the growth of the data center industry, which accounts for approximately 20% of the company’s electricity sales, “accelerated exponentially in 2020-21,” resulting in “transmission constraints in a small pocket of eastern Loudoun,” specifically Ashburn.
Ruby clarified that those constraints do not impact residential or small business customers outside of the area known as “data center alley.”
But he noted to alleviate the constraints, the company has been “accelerating the development of several near- and long-term transmission projects in eastern Loudoun.”
“That includes adding additional capacity to existing transmission lines and expanding existing substations, as well as building two new 500 kV transmission lines and substations,” Ruby said.
The first of those projects, Ruby said, will be completed in July when the variance is scheduled to expire.
Although the issue was specific to Loudoun, the Department of Environmental Quality extended eligibility to data centers in Fairfax and Prince William Counties in anticipation of power grid disruptions potentially affecting other parts of the region.
During the hearing, Josh Levi, president of the Data Center Coalition, a Northern Virginia-based trade association, applauded the variance, arguing it would allow data centers to “continue serving its customer” while maintaining “the integrity of the internet.”
Karen Sabasteanski, a policy analyst for the agency who conducted the hearing, said power grid disruptions are rare and, when they do happen, are “very short-lived” – lasting only a few hours.
“My understanding is that it’s about 17 hours a year,” she said in a phone interview following the hearing. “I understand that last year, [grid operators] called more emergencies than previous years, but in the air quality world, that’s a very small number.”
Air pollution
In addition to harmful air pollutants such as nitrous oxides, carbon monoxide, sulfur and particulate matter, several opponents noted the generators would also contribute to noise – a concern expressed by many Prince William and Fauquier residents over the last year during public hearings for the Digital Gateway project and Amazon data center proposal in Warrenton.
“I'll tell you, I worked in a couple of data centers – when they fire up those generators, you're going to be getting noise complaints, even from industrial parks, anybody who lives near them,” Kevin O’Neil, director of the Fauquier Climate Change Group, said during the hearing.
About an hour before the hearing, Chris Miller, president of the Piedmont Environmental Council, told reporters outside the agency’s office the variance is “troubling” because the agency has not provided the public with alternative energy sources, such as solar-powered backup generators or battery storage, data centers could use to power its facilities during a grid disruption.
“In one fell swoop with this variant, [the agency] is undoing 30 years of work,” Miller said. “Where are the alternatives? This is a serious question because we have spent billions and decades trying to get beyond the direct public health threat of [air pollutants] to people who live nearby the generation.”
Sabasteanski said that if the variance is issued and data centers choose to utilize it, the generator’s impact on the region’s air quality would be minimal compared to the air pollution caused by traffic.
“Very roughly, about 70% of the ozone problem in Northern Virginia was from traffic,” she said.
But Kyle Hart, a National Parks Conservation Association representative, said during the hearing that the variance would not only violate the department's mission to provide cleaner air for the region but also create a precedent that says data centers are allowed to keep polluting at the expense of nearby residents.
“The [Department of Environmental Quality] must announce whether or not this is a one-time variance or whether this will become the norm,” Hart said. “And I think last, but not least, [the agency] must establish a roadmap for this industry in Virginia moving forward regarding energy use, climate goals and more.”
Sabasteanski said the agency, which began its public comment period on the proposed variance Jan. 27, will continue to accept public comments through March 14, after which it will issue a decision.
Sabasteanski said it would take a "while" before a decision is reached.
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