
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 Great Falls, 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 Great Falls, 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 Great Falls, 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 Great Falls, 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 Great Falls, 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 Great Falls, 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 Great Falls, 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 Great Falls, VA
Discovering Virginia's Great Outdoors: A Road Trip Through The Great Falls Scenic Drive
Maria Bou Inkhttps://www.thetravel.com/can-you-drive-through-scenic-falls-virginia/
Beautiful landscapes and interesting sights are found along Northern Virginia's most beautiful highways, making them ideal for busy day trips or leisurely outings. Specifically, road trips are one of the best things to do in Virginia, no matter the time of year. During beautiful Virginia scenic drives, road trippers can discover many famou...
Beautiful landscapes and interesting sights are found along Northern Virginia's most beautiful highways, making them ideal for busy day trips or leisurely outings. Specifically, road trips are one of the best things to do in Virginia, no matter the time of year. During beautiful Virginia scenic drives, road trippers can discover many famous landmarks in Virginia, as well as the state's parks with scenic trails. Plus, embarking on a Virginia road trip route opens visitors up to the state's fascinating history, tempting restaurants, pretty vineyards, awesome breweries, and other attractions. Many of these drives provide intriguing activities and scenery.
Particularly in the fall and spring, though, Virginia is a popular location for amazing drives, breathtaking views, and weekend getaways in famous historic towns like Alexandria. Road trippers can drive through Northern Virginia by taking a Great Falls Scenic Drive to see picturesque country roads, lovely parks and trails, and a little center with tasty eateries. About 20 miles (32.18 km) west of Washington, DC, in the city center of Great Falls, Virginia, is where the route starts and ends. The Great Falls beautiful road may be completed in approximately an hour, although it is advised to go on a longer adventure. Road trippers should plan to spend some time exploring the lookouts in Great Falls Park, its trails, and the nearby establishments that are located along the scenic road. Here is what is waiting for vacationers on their road trip.
Related: 10 National & State Parks To Visit In West Virginia Before Summer's Over
What Are The Best Stops On The Great Falls Scenic Drive?
The Great Falls road trip route offers lots of stops for stunning scenery and various activities. Out of them all, the following are some of the best stops when traveling the Great Falls Scenic Drive.
The best route to take to reach Great Falls from the Beltway is Georgetown Pike if road trippers want to experience a countryside journey. In actuality, this route was Virginia's first scenic byway. Road trippers will then be on a winding, uphill route. After that, there is a tiny parking area near Difficult Run, from which they may enjoy a waterside trek. Yet, on this portion of the journey, Great Falls Park is what road trippers actually have to see. To enter the park, they turn right at Old Dominion Drive. Road trippers may spend the whole day here exploring the Patowmack Canal's historic ruins, miles of cliffside hiking paths, and the area's impressive, picturesque waterfall. At the third overlook, they should pay attention to the marker pole that shows water levels from previous floods. The area will astound road trippers. If they wish to carry a basket to eat, picnicking is fairly common in this area.
After visiting Great Falls Park, drivers can go back to their car and head right onto Georgetown Pike, then turn right into Riverbend Road. They may access Riverbend Park, just upstream of Great Falls, by taking Jeffery Road. There, they may find all the nicest springtime blooms, including Virginia bluebells, wildflowers, and flowering trees, along the pathways. There are also excellent places for bird watching as well as for fishing and boating on the Potomac River. After visiting the park, road trippers can continue traveling south on Riverbend Road. The purpose of this journey is mostly to take in the scenic hills, bends, and scenery. In light of this, drivers should be aware that some of the roads in Great Falls make peculiar twists or repeatedly start and stop.
Related: Sip Your Way Along the Wine Trail In Northern Virginia’s Wine Country
Virginia Bluebell Spring Wildflowers along the Potomac Heritage Trail
Beach Mill Road is a winding, narrow road that is bordered by spacious residences, undulating hills and meadows, and peaceful woodlands. As road trippers travel slowly and cautiously along this peaceful country road, they should not miss taking in the scenery. There are several sharp twists, a one-lane bridge to cross, and the route dips and climbs. L'Auberge Chez Francois, one of Northern Virginia's most romantic eateries, is located at the intersection of Springvale Road. This is a great location to eat or have a drink. Road trippers may unwind in the charming courtyard with a view of the kitchen garden if the weather is nice. After the meal, they can keep traveling down Beach Mill Road after going around the corner. Then, they can turn right into Walker Road when the road seems to come to an end.
Drivers can turn onto Jeffrey Road in less than a mile to reach Riverbend Park and the Potomac River. They should keep an eye out for the turn because there is no parking sign coming from this direction. The park entrance is less than a mile along Jeffrey Road. Riverbend Park is one of the best outdoor areas in Northern Virginia. Here, visitors may go on a trek, kayak the Potomac, discover the region's geology and prehistoric people, or simply unwind while admiring the scenery.
When Is The Best Time To Travel The Great Falls Scenic Drive?
Fortunately for all visitors, there is no "best" time to drive the Great Falls Scenic Drive since it is a year-round destination with something beautiful to see or something amazing to do throughout the seasons. The Potomac River Path is bordered by bluebells in the spring. The popular Great Falls Park can be reached by hiking from Riverbend throughout the summer. Road trippers can enjoy the fall foliage on the wooded pathways at Riverbend. Finally, throughout the winter, they can explore the more sedate paths and take in the scenery from the visitor center's deck at Riverbend.
The 10 Best Spots to Shop, Eat, and Play in Great Falls
Renee Sklarewhttps://northernvirginiamag.com/style/shopping/2022/11/04/great-falls/
The gateway to the DMV’s most beloved park boasts international restaurants, posh shops, and a 19th-century landmark.British explorer John Smith mapped his first voyage up the Potomac in 1608, his ship blocked by Great Falls, a 350-foot-wide, 75-foot-high cascade that spans the width of the Potomac. In 1785, George Washington began construction on a canal that would bypass Great Falls to bring coal from western Maryland to Georgetown. A new light rail was built in 1906 to connect an amusement park in Great Falls to Washington, D...
The gateway to the DMV’s most beloved park boasts international restaurants, posh shops, and a 19th-century landmark.
British explorer John Smith mapped his first voyage up the Potomac in 1608, his ship blocked by Great Falls, a 350-foot-wide, 75-foot-high cascade that spans the width of the Potomac. In 1785, George Washington began construction on a canal that would bypass Great Falls to bring coal from western Maryland to Georgetown. A new light rail was built in 1906 to connect an amusement park in Great Falls to Washington, DC. The popular tourist attraction operated until 1972, when Hurricane Agnes destroyed the carousel. Today, Great Falls Park remains a favorite place for picnicking and hiking, but there’s more to enjoy among the rolling hills and dales. While development persists throughout the region, Great Falls clings to its rural heritage by preserving Georgetown Pike, a historic byway. So take a ride to Great Falls for a day of surprising discoveries.
1. A local institution, the Old Brogue Irish Pub is the perfect spot to watch Major League Soccer with like-minded fans. The restaurant offers a mix of specials, like prime rib night on Wednesdays and fried chicken nights on Thursdays. But every day is a good day to try the fish and chips or traditional Irish breakfast of beans, tomato, eggs, and ham. 760 Walker Rd.
2. The frosty confections at Great Falls Creamery keep the lines long throughout the year, even in the colder months. The ice cream and sorbets are made from natural ingredients with a variety of traditional and innovative flavors. While the lineup changes seasonally, look for s’mores, pumpkin, and cinnamon this time of year. 766-C Walker Rd.
3. Ask a local about Mookie’s BBQ, and they’ll wax poetic about the burnt ends. If you’re unfamiliar with this delicacy, burnt ends are “meat candy,” created by cooking brisket low and slow and then cutting off the pointy ends (or deckle). Mookie’s serves up smoked meats with sauces that enhance the flavor, accompanied by cornbread, collards, and baked mac and cheese. 1141 Walker Rd.
4. Pio Pio Peruvian Cuisine is best known for its exceptional ceviche. Chef and owner Danny Pain attributes his imaginative recipes to his mother and grandmother, and his best reference is having a huge following among Latin American expats. His prowess is on display when you order the appetizer platter. 762-A Walker Rd.
5. Located in the courtyard of the Great Falls Village Centre, the fashion boutique Vivid Chill is inspired by the colors found in owner Marika Tsombikos’ Aegean homeland. She selects the vibrant apparel, jewelry, skin care, and home accessories for their emphasis on sustainability and quality production. 752-C Walker Rd.
6. If you like graceful and exclusive merchandise, you’ll love BedHeaders Home. The owner has curated a collection that will enhance your style in your home and on your person. Quality gifts? You’ll find lotions and candles by Aussie-glam Glasshouse and serveware by Lynn & Liana. 9895 Georgetown Pk.
7. The Artists’ Atelier in Great Falls Village exhibits fine art created by 10 local artists. Walk through this co-op gallery to immerse in sites around the DMV (by photographer Walt Lawrence and painter Joyce Lee) and around the world (by Roberta Beasley and Jill Banks). The studio also hosts classes and workshops. 756 Walker Rd.
8. The circa-1811 mill on the Colvin Run Mill Historic Site was owned by the Millard family and their 20 children. Within the property is the miller’s house, a general store, the mill, and a nature trail. The 20-foot waterwheel is powered by Difficult Run, and still churns out grits, cornmeal, and stone-ground wheat flour. Events include cider making, holiday festivities, and wood carving. 10017 Colvin Run Rd.
9. The customers at Señor Ramon Taqueria & Bites Grilled Cheese Bar are all smiles. This taco and sandwich shop is a welcome addition to the neighborhood and caters to hungry families and hikers. If you’re familiar with Leesburg, you’ve probably tried these two hot spots, but in Great Falls, they’ve combined forces to serve authentic Mexican street food and American cuisine. Don’t miss the happy hour bargains on the margaritas. 9900 Georgetown Pk.
10. The gems at this upscale store might surpass your pay scale, but it’s worth gazing at the exclusive designs on display at Adeler Jewelers for inspiration. Some Adeler family creations are worn by stars like Jennifer Lopez and Danica Patrick. 772 Walker Rd.
This story originally ran in our November issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to our monthly magazine.
Longtime VA addiction counselor set to retire after 50 years
Tim McGonigalhttps://www.krtv.com/news/great-falls-news/longtime-va-addiction-counselor-set-to-retire-after-50-years
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GREAT FALLS — Long before the former federal court room on the second floor of the Great Falls Post Office became the Veterans Treatment Court, Carol Richard was helping veterans and others overcome addiction in a career that spanned half a century.
“Carol Richard is an LAC (licensed addictions counselor) who is an Army veteran herself and has been treating addictions and veterans for 50 years.,” said Judge Elizabeth Best who administers the Cascade County Veterans’ Treatment Court and works closely with Richard.
Richard will retire from her LAC position the Department of Veterans Affairs in June.
“Well, I didn't choose it. It chose me,” said Richard when she reflected on her time as a drug and alcohol counselor
The Helena native enlisted in the woman’s Army corps in 1971.
It was while she was working on the psychiatric ward at Denver’s Fitzsimons Army Medical Center when her path was laid out.
“They said, we're going to start a drug and alcohol ward, and we're going to volunteer you and some of your cohorts to go work there,” said Richard.
She was treating Vietnam Veterans during a tumultuous time.
“The men in that went to Vietnam, they did not get a very good reception,” said Richard. “Women didn't get a very good reception either.”
Carol says she’s always had a passion for helping people and is proud of what she’s achieved.
Between her military service and time with the VA, she had a civilian practice in which her treatment was into third generations.
Carol says every addict is different and when treating someone for addiction, it’s important to validate their feelings.
“It allows them to tell me why they're there and maybe to tell me why they don't want to be there,” said Richard.
For those who don’t know addiction, Carol uses a not so clean analogy everybody might understand.
“When was the last time you had diarrhea? Why don't you use willpower and just stop the flow?” said Richard. “It's a biochemical process that happens in the brain and it doesn't just stop.”
For those who are trying comprehend recovery, Carol relates it to a life lesson.
“It isn't an easy process. It's not that they don't want it. It's it's just that it's new, it's unfamiliar, and they have to learn the skills,” said Richard. “They have to feel the support they have to try. It's kind of like riding a bicycle the first time. Some of us have to ride with the training wheels for longer than other people. When we take the training wheels off, sometimes we fall down and we get back on the bike and we ride it again. Recovery is the same way.”
Carol’s involvement in Veterans’ Treatment Court came about when she was asked to fill in for a veterans justice outreach worker and go to training. She asked to be a part of the team and never looked back.
“There's so many different people that are on this team because they want to be there. It's it's kind of a utopic treatment,” said Richard.
Like Judge Best, other members of the team have nothing but praise for Carol.
“Even today when she came in for this (interview) and we put her to work with somebody who's new to the program,” said Cascade County Veterans’ Treatment Court Coordinator Denver Cobb. “We used her knowledge.”
“She's got dedication like no other. I mean, Carol has never really took a vacation,” said Cascade County Veterans' Treatment Court Case Manager Kathy Hankes. “She's always here whether she's logged on Zoom or calling us to see what's going on with all of her clients. When she's away, she's still here.”
At the age of 70, Carol will be retiring from her full-time position with the VA, but that passion of helping veterans will continue.
“It's hard decision to make because I really care about each and every one of the folks that I work with,” said Richard. “So, I asked Judge Best if I could volunteer for the Veterans’ Court. She said, yes, that would be great. So that helps to make retirement easier.”
Carol will be able to spend more time with family but will take on a mentorship role with Veterans’ Treatment Court.
Questions or comments about this article? Click here to contact Tim.
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Cascade County undersheriff completes FBI training
KRTV NEWS Great Fallshttps://www.krtv.com/news/great-falls-news/cascade-county-undersheriff-completes-fbi-training
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CASCADE COUNTY — Cascade County Undersheriff Scott Van Dyken recently returned to Great Falls after ten weeks of FBI training in Virginia.
"There was a total of 247 people in my class," Van Dyken said.
Van Dyken said his time in Virginia receiving training from the FBI was full of classes and invaluable networking opportunities.
"Only one percent of officers in the United States get to go to this. You have to get sponsored, you have to get accepted to it. It took me four years to get into it. Then it's a lot of group projects," Van Dyken explained.
He was the lone Montanan among law enforcement members from around the country and the world in his class.
"The benefit is not for me, really, the benefit is for the Sheriff's Office and our community. It's going to benefit our community greatly because it taught us a bunch on leadership and on building relationships and working together. It gives us access to a lot more intelligence, a lot more problem-solving abilities than we had before," Van Dyken said.
Cascade County Sheriff Jesse Slaughter said Van Dyken's commitment to getting this training is a good reflection of the Sheriff's Office.
"We have an amazing team, we really do. Obviously, the undersheriff is a great representative of that team. But they do, they care deeply about their profession," Slaughter said.
Van Dyken hopes he's done with school from now on and looks forward to putting what he learned to use.
Slaughter said Van Dyken is the first person from the Sheriff's Office to go through the training in about 30 years.
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Top 5 Things To Do This Weekend May 5–May 7
TysonsTodayhttps://tysonstoday.com/2023/top-5-things-to-do-this-weekend-may-5-may-7/
Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Here are our picks for the best events happening in the area!Friday, May 53:00pm – 8:00pmSaturday, May 6 & Sunday, May711:00am – 7:00pmMosaicDistrict AvenueFairfax, VA 22031Mark your calendars for an unforgettable 3-day weekend event! Get ready to shop, dine, and groove from May 5-7 at Mosaic. On Friday, May 5 in partnership with Urbano, kick off the weekend with an epic ...
Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Here are our picks for the best events happening in the area!
Friday, May 53:00pm – 8:00pm
Saturday, May 6 & Sunday, May711:00am – 7:00pm
MosaicDistrict AvenueFairfax, VA 22031
Mark your calendars for an unforgettable 3-day weekend event! Get ready to shop, dine, and groove from May 5-7 at Mosaic. On Friday, May 5 in partnership with Urbano, kick off the weekend with an epic Cinco de Mayo street party celebration and enjoy live music, delicious food and exquisite cocktails while browsing creative makers at URBNmarket’s pop-up market. Keep the fun going through the weekend with more outdoor shopping, the perfect opportunity to buy gifts for Mother’s or Father’s Day, Graduation and Teacher’s gifts…and of course, you can always pick up something for yourself!
Saturday, May 6 & Sunday, May 710:00am – 5:00pm
The Arts of Great Falls756 Walker RoadGreat Falls, VA 22066
Painting, Watercolor, Pottery, Photography, Printing making, Jewelry, and more by Great Falls Artists
Come mingle with the artists, learn about their work, and purchase unique art, cards, and gifts
Look for the colorful flags at two locations: The Artists Atelier & The Artists’ Loft in Village Centre at 756 & 766 Walker Road, Great Falls, VA 22066
Saturday, May 61:00pm – 4:00pm
The Plaza at Tysons Corner Center1961 Chain Bridge RdTysons Corner, VA 22102
Experience our wide array of food & beverage offerings with food sampling, cooking demos, chef appearances, Barrel & Bushel beer garden, live music & entertainment, giveaways, and more!
Saturday, May 63:30pm – 8:00pm
Historic Blenheim3610 Blenheim Blvd.
As a part of the annual Spotlight on the Arts Festival, this event will highlight the amazing talent of our Mason Jazz musicians while participants enjoy the fine fruits of local Virginia Wineries. There will be food available for purchase on site, so please do NOT bring any additional food or alcohol to the event. Feel free to bring your blankets and lawn chairs!
Sunday, May 72:00pm – 3:30pm
The Alden Theatre1234 Ingleside Ave. McLean, VA 22101
From the stages of the lower east side to the bright lights of Broadway, “L’Chaim” is a musical journey that pays tribute to the Jewish legacy in musical theater by exploring and celebrating the unique role of Jewish composers and lyricists. Rooted in history, heritage and tradition, four Jewish performers bring to life the most iconic songs from the stage of past and present and the historical stories that go with them.
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