Meet Dale, a black male kitten available for adoption locally.
Here is what his friends at Little Buddies Adoption and Humane Society have to say about him:
Dale is a beautiful, black stallion. He was rescued from outside to a home with her mom and siblings. He is looking for a forever home where he can play and purr and just snuggle up when he is tired.
He has a white spot on his belly and his chest. He will purr the moment you pick him up. His brother and he have fun together so he would be good around other cats. He loves to play and has a ton of energy.
He needs a home that will give him a lot of attention and has lots of toys.
Are you and Dale a match?
By Nicola Caul Shelley, Synergy Design & Construction
At Synergy Design & Construction, we’re big believers in giving homeowners insights into everything you need to know to make informed decisions about home remodeling.
As the pandemic wears on and we’re all spending so much more time at home, we know a lot of you are ready to make big changes. From kitchens to basements to bathrooms, interior remodeling services are in high demand — especially as temperatures start to plummet and our attention turns to winter and the prospect of spending even more time indoors.
Other than kitchens, one of the most frequent home remodeling requests we get is bathroom remodeling. So, to help you on your remodeling journey, here are three “don’t” tips you should know before you get started!
1. Don’t Hire the Wrong Type of Contractor for the Job
Every day you see your powder room, your heart sinks a little and you make a mental note (again) it’s time to do something about it. If your powder room needs a little pep, it’s not a big remodeling project. But, just as you don’t need a CPA to balance a checkbook, you don’t need a full service design and build firm like Synergy if you just want to update a vanity and change a light fixture. Knowing who you need is the starting point. Doing your homework and aligning your needs with the type of service a particular contractor provides is a HUGE time (and money) saver. Read more in Best Remodelers in Reston and Where to Find Them.
2. Don’t Assume You Need to Keep the Tub
We get this question a lot, “Do I need a bathtub in my Master Bathroom?”. The short answer is no. A soaking tub is aesthetically beautiful, but if you don’t use it now you won’t use it in the future. We’ve completed a number of remodels for homeowners who chose to eliminate the tub altogether and create a larger shower that packs a design “WOW!” punch instead. If you’re concerned about resale, most home buyers DO want a tub, but it doesn’t necessarily need to be in the Master Bathroom. As long as there’s one somewhere in the home for kids (and, yes, sometimes pets!) it isn’t a deal breaker. Of course, keeping the tub and making a design feature out of it is always an option if you have plenty of room for one.
3. Don’t Select Form Over Function
It’s really easy to select finishes based on your HGTV vision of your space, not the real life version of how you’ll actually use it. We’re all guilty of this one! For example, a pedestal sink can be a piece of artwork in itself, but it becomes a cluttered mess if you don’t have a place to put everything. Spend your budget on storage-friendly vanities. Adding one might just reduce the stress you feel every time you walk into your bathroom and see cluttered countertops. Even the most modern floating vanities now come in all sorts of styles that include storage drawers, so if you have more contemporary taste, you don’t have to sacrifice modern design.
Our featured remodel this month is a Reston townhome master bathroom remodel. This transitional bathroom is a great example of how removing the bathtub and creating room for a larger walk-in shower completely transforms the space. The result? A beautiful spa-like retreat.
Learn about the steps we take to ensure a safe home remodeling experience here. If you’re ready for a design thoughtful home remodel, our consultations are FREE and we even offer virtual meeting options. If you’re ready to chat, give us a call!
Not everyone has the time or financial resources to commit to a full master’s degree program. Some may already have a master’s and are just looking for a narrow update on a current skillset. For these reasons, Virginia Tech’s 100% online Master of Information Technology program now offers IT professionals the option to earn a graduate certificate in 10 specialized IT subject areas.
“IT leaders can find a certificate that speaks exactly to their professional needs without having to commit several years to pursuing a master’s degree,” says Barbara Hoopes, Associate Professor of Business Information Technology at Virginia Tech. In fact, students can earn a certificate in as little as 12 months as a part-time student.
Whether looking to simply enhance existing skills or prepare for a major career transition, students can expect to reap these rewards:
Enhanced Marketability — Both experienced and aspiring IT professionals can enhance their expertise through thoughtfully designed certificates that allow students to develop skills in areas where a current dearth of talent is driving competitive salaries and prime opportunities for career advancement.
Explore High-Demand Areas — Earning a certificate offers a relatively quick opportunity to explore a high-demand content area, like Cybersecurity, Business Data Analytics, or Health Information Technology, to boost marketability and stay abreast of IT trends. Employers can also use a certificate “to contribute to the skill sets and the knowledge base of employees without having to release them to earn a degree as a full-time student,” says Hoopes.
Greater Convenience — Exclusively online, a VT-MIT master’s degree or graduate certificate satisfies an increasing demand among IT workers for greater flexibility. Students can easily switch between full or part-time status and shift their course loads to match their personal and professional demands. An online VT-MIT degree or graduate certificate offers students the skills they need while at the same time balancing today’s personal, professional and academic demands.
Learn more about Virginia Tech’s 100% online Master of Information Technology and graduate certificate options at vtmit.vt.edu.
Meet Marco, a Border Collie and Corgi mix available for adoption locally.
Here is what his friends at Safe Haven Puppy Rescue have to say about him:
Marco and his brothers Maverick, Mojo and Moose are happy, friendly little boys who are just 9 weeks old and now ready for their forever homes.
They’re all doing great in their foster home, playing and romping as puppies will — they’re such fun to hang out with. Their mom weighs only about 25 pounds and while we don’t know who the father is it seems they won’t get very big, maybe in the 35 to 40 pound range. They might have some corgi or doxie in them as a couple have shorter legs and the mom is also a low rider.
They’re SO CUTE! This great little fella is a nice blend of friendly affection and normal puppy playfulness and will bring lots of joy and love to any home.
Are you and Marco a match?
The Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University is offering a new three-part series of “virtual visits” to campus for prospective undergraduate students to see first-hand the opportunities and world-changing subject matter that a Schar School student encounters.
“The virtual visits will showcase some of the high-profile professors, students, and graduates who make the Schar School one of the highest ranked policy and government schools in the country,” said Shannon Williams, who works in student services and is coordinating the virtual visits. “The variety of the topics of the three events range from examining the future of American democracy to justice and prison privatization to getting ready for your career in changing the world. Prospective students will be able to ask questions at the end and they can register for one session or all three, at no cost.”
The virtual visit series will be held October 13-15, at 6 p.m. EDT. Topics throughout the week include:
- Bridging the Divide? Political Polarization and the Future of American Democracy
Tuesday, October 13
6-7:15 p.m. (EDT)
A government and politics panel of Schar School professors, joined by a current student and a recent graduate, discuss the idea of polarization and its impact on the future of American democracy - Preparing for a Career that Makes a Difference
Wednesday, October 14
6-7:15 p.m. (EDT)
An internship and career readiness panel with Undergraduate Student Services, Mason Career Services, and Schar School students and alumni share various resources and opportunities available to students - Corporate Profit or Public Good? Prison Privatization and the Question of Justice
Thursday, October 15
6-7:15 p.m. (EDT)
A policy and law panel with Schar School professors and the school’s pre-law advisor, joined by a current Schar School student and a recent graduate, examine corporate profit versus public good and their impacts on the core of America’s justice system
Register to attend any or all of the virtual visits.
With a BA in Government and International Politics and the BS in Public Administration, students are poised to make an impact globally and locally.
To learn more about other upcoming events, please visit our event calendar or connect with the Schar School Office of Undergraduate Student Services at [email protected].
This is a sponsored column by attorneys John Berry and Kimberly Berry of Berry & Berry, PLLC, an employment and labor law firm located in Northern Virginia that specializes in federal employee, security clearance, retirement and private sector employee matters.
By John V. Berry, Esq.
We represent individual government contractors (typically private employees that work for government defense contractors) in debarment cases before federal agencies, like the Department of Defense and many others agencies.
What is a Debarment?
Debarments (and shorter term suspensions) are government actions taken under the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to protect the government’s interest from contractors that have been alleged to be irresponsible. Suspensions result in temporary contractor ineligibility to work on government contracts, usually occurring during an investigation or during other ongoing legal matters. Debarments can last a period of years. Suspensions and debarments are not for the purpose of punishing a government contractor, but for protecting the public.
Some government contractors can have both debarment and security clearance issues.
Effect of Debarments and Suspensions
Debarments and suspensions have a significant impact on individual government contractors. These often include removal from their government contract employment (and potential termination from employment) and potential security clearance issues. Government contractors that are debarred, suspended or proposed for debarment are not eligible to receive contracts, unless a compelling reason exists, which can be a very high bar to meet.
The government takes a straightforward approach to debarment and there is a robust response process. Of late, the government has also seemed to take a more assertive approach in debarment or suspension of individuals that are under the suspicion of wrongdoing, even if they have not been convicted of any crime.
Common Reasons for Debarment (of Suspension of Eligibility)
The most common reasons for debarment or suspension can often include:
- Criminal Convictions or Pending Charges
- Civil Judgments and/or Liens
- Evidence of Crimes
- Specific Misconduct (e.g. time and attendance mischarging)
Debarment/Suspension Process
At the start of the disbarment process, the government will issue a show cause letter requiring a government contractor to demonstrate why they should not be suspended or debarred. These proceedings are completely relatively quickly and individual government contractors must respond in order to avoid a negative outcome.
A debarment or suspension proceeding is similar, somewhat to a security clearance proceeding. The government will generally provide a show cause letter to the individual pursuant to the FAR, an initial chance to respond to the allegations, along with a memorandum in support of proposed debarment. If the matter proceeds, the individual contractor will have to respond to a Notice of Proposed Debarment from the government.
Responding to Debarments
In responding to a notice of proposed debarment, it is important to fully address all allegations of misconduct or impropriety, through counsel. We often find it helpful to submit letters of support on behalf of the individual, awards, commendations and other materials which demonstrate the character and integrity of the individual.
Additionally, cooperation in related investigations, completion of ethics training in a relevant area, acceptance of responsibility and other mitigating arguments should be made to the Debarring Official in an effort to convince them that debarment is not needed or that mitigation is appropriate.
Following the response period, a decision will be rendered by the Debarring Official. The Debarring Official can uphold, mitigate or terminate the Debarment. If a negative finding is reached, leaving the person in a debarment status, that finding will be placed in the debarment database, known as the System for Award Managements (SAM). Further, if a negative finding is upheld, there is sometimes the ability to seek reconsideration of a negative debarment finding. The process can involve contacting the Debarring Official with new or other evidence and seeking to reduce the debarment. It is important to have legal representation in this process.
Contact Us
If you are in need of legal representation or advice, please contact our office at 703-668-0070 or through our contact page to schedule a consultation. Please also visit and like us on Facebook or Twitter.
With national recognition for safety excellence, Inova is at the leading edge of the science of safety for you.
Inova’s comprehensive care program, Safe@Inova, gives details about the safety of their locations, strict PPE requirements and cleaning protocols, so you feel confident it’s safe for you to receive the care you need.
Whether you come to Inova for routine care, emergency care or COVID-19 care, you’re Safe@Inova.
In an uncertain economy, professionals may find that returning to school for an MBA can be a productive way to sharpen skills and add credentials while working to launch the next stage of their careers.
Virginia Tech’s Evening MBA program, based in the university’s Northern Virginia Center in Falls Church, has attracted many new students this fall for several reasons, said MBA programs director Dana Hansson. These include its stellar reputation and top 20 national ranking; dedicated faculty, many with industry experience; extensive alumni network; and great value.
Those who majored in science, engineering and other nonbusiness disciplines as undergraduates — such as Ryan Feber, a 2003 Virginia Tech graduate in computer science, and Bryan Gassenmeyer, who earned a degree in industrial and systems engineering at Virginia Tech in 2006 — have found that not only is a prior business education not needed to enroll or excel in an MBA program, but that technical backgrounds can be a basis for diversifying or rounding out knowledge and skills for managing or leading change in today’s data economy.
Others like Cody Neder, a 2014 finance alumnus, and Alexis Monahan, a 2006 graduate in communications and psychology, have lauded the program for the business and management knowledge and skills they’ve gained and the rich contributions to their learning from faculty and classmates with diverse professional backgrounds.
And, because life circumstances can change, a program that offers flexibility and affordability — students can shift between full-time and part-time status and apply for paid graduate assistantships — are two more pluses.
Maryann Romero’s experience reflects both these benefits. A stay-at-home mom at the time with an undergraduate degree in communications and rhetorical studies from Syracuse University, Romero finished up in two-and-a-half years and credits the program for opening the door to a new career as a client insights analyst at a media analytics company.
Lastly, Virginia Tech’s caring and supportive community of faculty and staff left a lasting impression on Nicholle Clinton, who received a marketing degree in 2007 and currently expects to complete her MBA in December 2020. Clinton coped with a series of serious family illnesses and losses during her senior year as well as early in her MBA studies. She is grateful for the compassion and assistance she received during both periods from the teaching faculty and program staff.
Learn more about how Virginia Tech can support your career goals at mba.vt.edu.
Meet Mork, a senior Domestic Short Hair and Tabby mix available for adoption locally.
Here is what his friends at Little Buddies Adoption and Humane Society have to say about him:
Mork is playful and loving. Playing rollerball, where he hits a ball around a track, is his favorite game, and he is a prodigy at it. He can do it lying down, sitting up, using either paw, and lying down with his paw over his head. He even has a tri-level rollerball game which he loves.
Mork took readily to games on a tablet; in fact, he became a high scorer within minutes. Mork can fool his automatic feeder into letting food down by playing with the mechanism. Mork prefers romaine lettuce over iceberg. If you cut up romaine lettuce he’ll come from anywhere in the house.
Mork will sit by you and purr in your ear. He will also sit in your lap. Mork is about ten years old and is in great health.
Are you and Mork a match?
Meet Serana, a black Shepherd and Husky mix available for adoption locally.
Here is what her friends at Safe Haven Puppy Rescue have to say about her:
Sweet Serana is a gorgeous shepherd/husky mix! At 1 year old and 47 lbs she is the perfect size for an active family.
She is up to date on all of her shots, dewormings and will be spayed before adoption. Precious pups like Serana go fast. She carries an adoption fee of $389 which includes her micro chip.
This attractive, affectionate girl is going to bring lots of joy to some lucky adopters.
Are you and Serana a match?
This is a sponsored column by attorneys John Berry and Kimberly Berry of Berry & Berry, PLLC, an employment and labor law firm located in Northern Virginia that specializes in federal employee, security clearance, retirement and private sector employee matters.
By John V. Berry, Esq.
The Federal Erroneous Retirement Coverage Corrections Act (FERCCA) was enacted in September, 2000 and designed to provide relief to federal civilian employees who were placed in the wrong federal retirement system for at least three years of service after December 31, 1986.
Typically, FERCCA errors arise when a federal employee experiences a break in service, especially during the mid-1980s when the Federal Employees Retirement Systems (FERS) plan was created. In some cases, FERCCA has provided federal employees and annuitants placed in the wrong federal retirement system with the opportunity to choose between FERS and the offset provisions contained within the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS).
In order to determine if you are in the correct federal retirement plan, you need to know the type of appointment you have and your work history. Federal retirement rules governing retirement plan placement are complex and contain many exceptions that are hard to follow. If you find that you fit in any of the situations described below, you could be in the wrong federal retirement system. However, keep in mind that there are exceptions to the general rules.
If you currently have CSRS coverage, then you may be in the wrong plan if:
- You worked for the federal government before 1984, but not on a permanent basis
- You left federal employment for more than a year at any time after 1983
- You have a temporary appointment limited to a year or less, a term appointment, or an emergency indefinite appointment
- You have no federal civilian employment before 1984
- You do not have a career or career conditional appointment and you work on an intermittent basis (see the work schedule block on your SF-50)
If you currently have CSRS Offset coverage, then you may be in the wrong plan if:
- You have a temporary appointment limited to a year or less, a term appointment, or an emergency indefinite appointment
- You have no federal civilian employment before 1984
- You do not have a career or career conditional appointment and you work on an intermittent basis (see the work schedule block on your SF-50)
- You did not work for the federal government for a total of five years before 1987 (not including your military service). Exception: If you worked under CSRS, left the federal government, and your agency placed you in CSRS Offset upon your return, your CSRS Offset coverage is probably correct if you had five years of federal government service when you left.
If you currently have FERS coverage, then you may be in the wrong plan if:
- You have a temporary appointment limited to a year or less
- You do not have a career or career conditional appointment and you work on an intermittent basis
- You have worked for the federal government for at least five years before 1987 (not including military service) unless you elected to transfer to FERS during a FERS Open Season or after a break in service
FERCCA can also provide 1) reimbursement for certain out-of-pocket expenses paid as a result of a coverage error (e.g., attorney’s fees, costs, etc.); 2) an ability to benefit from certain changes in the rules about how some federal service is credited toward retirement; and 3) make-up contributions to the federal employee’s Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) and receipt of lost earnings on those contributions, among other provisions.
If you think that you have a FERCCA error, you should notify your agency’s Human Resources department. Pursuant to FERCCA regulations, the federal government — upon its receipt of notice that a potential FERCCA error exists — should review your work history to confirm whether a FERCCA error actually exists and supply you with correspondence confirming the FERCCA error and other pertinent information, including benefit estimates for individuals entitled to an election option.
You should also receive a federal election form and information regarding how to receive reimbursement for your actual out-of-pocket expenses related to your FERCCA error, including attorneys’ fees. For more information, visit the Office of Personnel Management’s web site for frequently asked questions concerning FERCCA.
Contact Us
If you are in need of employment law legal representation or advice, please contact our office at 703-668-0070 or through our contact page to schedule a consultation. Please also visit and like us on Facebook or Twitter.
Meet Mac, a young Domestic Short Hair male available for adoption locally.
Here is what his friends at The Feline Foundation of Greater Washington Inc. have to say about him:
If you want a kitten that is a home run, Mac is the one for you. He is outgoing and very affectionate.
Mac warms up very easily to new people. He loves to settle in a lap in the evening and snuggle. During the day he loves to play. He can play for hours on end and will bring his favorite toy to you.
He is around other dogs and cats in his foster home and is affectionate and friendly with both. He would make a great addition to any home.
Are you and Mac a match?
By Nicola Caul Shelley, Synergy Design & Construction
It’s been a busy summer here at Synergy! We’ve completed a number of beautiful home remodels in the area (while practicing COVID safety, of course) and have started a number of new projects.
Although Labor Day usually marks the end of summer, we’re hoping for a few more warm days to take advantage of outdoor activities that can be safely enjoyed in these COVID times. One of the things we love about this area is the many lakes, local parks and trails and the opportunity to be outside enjoying nature. It’s one of the reasons so many people are attracted to this area (and one of the reasons the housing market is so active right now)!
It may not surprise you to know home remodeling is also in high demand. Now well into our seventh month of the COVID pandemic, many of us are looking at ways to maximize the use and enjoyment of our existing space. Let’s face it, spending so much time at home is a surefire way to start you dreaming of that perfect kitchen or finally getting around to remodeling the basement!
In keeping with our love of the local area, this month’s featured remodel is a Reston lakefront townhome. This remodel is a great example of not only how you can create a more open concept and better flow, but also how changing the internal layout of a home makes it look and feel much bigger (without the expense of an addition). It can also help you maximize some of the best features of your home — in this case, a beautiful lake view.
The key to the remodel of this home was creating a better flow throughout the main level and better use of space. Visible as soon as you entered the home, the original footprint included a large closet pantry at the entry to the kitchen. This not only took up a lot of square footage, it blocked the view to the lake and closed off the kitchen. We removed it and changed the door location (and size) of a separate coat closet for more efficient storage.
We also removed a railing-height wall leading to the family room and replaced it with modern cable railing. This created a much more open concept that maximizes the gorgeous water views throughout the main level and brings the outside in. The space now feels bigger, brighter and more airy.
Our clients’ piano was an important feature for them, so we removed an existing butler’s pantry/bar, leaving the perfect nook for the piano. We added a “dry bar” to the other side of the room for additional storage and a buffet serving area. A large island with lots of seating now takes center stage in what used to be the dining area, and the large dining table was relocated to the step-down living area, which features an updated fireplace. The whole feel of this townhouse has been transformed.
If you’ve been thinking of a home remodel for a while, be prepared production schedules are rapidly filling up for many home remodeling companies. We’re now booking construction dates in late 2020 and early 2021, so if you’ve been thinking of a home remodel, don’t delay and start the conversation now!
Our no-obligation consultations are FREE and if you aren’t comfortable with having anyone in your home just yet, we also offer virtual consultations.
The Reston Station neighborhood is thriving and growing.
The latest example is Union Towns, a new collection of 26 stunning townhomes, that recently opened for sales. Just steps from the Wiehle-Reston East Metro Station, these new homes from the Northern Virginia-based Knutson Companies create a walkable lifestyle for residents who will also enjoy extraordinary design and award-winning architecture.
Sales appointments are taking place now, and home shoppers are getting a first look at new floor plans that offer more than 2,700 square feet of interior living space, including a 6-piece chef’s kitchen, 10-foot ceilings and hardwood throughout the main living level, and an impressive owner’s suite with dual walk-in closets. Each home also boasts more than 300 square feet of private outdoor living space to enjoy. Every home includes a deck and a rooftop terrace — your Yard In The Sky — looking out over the vibrant neighborhood.
Residents at Union Towns will enjoy a community green space and a dog park where they can mingle with neighbors while their furry friends run and play. Homeownership also comes with the benefit of members-only access to a rooftop pool and fitness center next door.
And the W&OD Trail is just minutes away for walking, running or biking.
The community offers a complete lifestyle, thanks to the walkable proximity to Starbucks, Founding Farmers, Sweet Leaf, Orangetheory Fitness and more. Of course, Metro’s Silver Line is also waiting to whisk you wherever you want to go in the D.C. Metro area.
Make your first stop an appointment with the Knutson team at Union Towns. To learn more about these new homes and schedule your appointment, visit UnionTowns.com or contact Laurie Hargadon at [email protected] or 703-348-1384.
Join the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University for an upcoming virtual open house for prospective students! Learn more about our top-ranked degrees as our sessions will explore master’s, certificate and PhD programs.
Master’s and Certificate Virtual Open House
Tuesday, September 15
6:30-8 p.m. (EDT)
PhD Virtual Open House
Wednesday, September 23
7-8:30 p.m. (EDT)
Master’s and Certificate Virtual Open House
Thursday, October 22
6:30-8 p.m. (EDT)
Master’s and Certificate Virtual Open House
Thursday, November 12
6:30-8 p.m. (EDT)
George Mason’s Schar School of Policy and Government is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as the No. 2 best school in the U.S. for security studies programs relating to intelligence, counterterrorism, and emergency management. With dedicated career services advisors, 16,000+ passionate alumni around the globe, and a faculty of leaders and experts in their fields, you will benefit from a world-class education.
Graduate Certificate Programs (5 Courses Each)
Part-time and full-time options available
- Biodefense, Certificate
- Emergency Management and Homeland Security, Certificate
- Global Health and Security, Certificate
- Illicit Trade Analysis, Certificate
- National Security and Public Policy, Certificate
- Nonprofit Management, Certificate
- Public Management, Certificate
- Science, Technology, and Security, Certificate
- Strategic Trade, Certificate
- Terrorism and Homeland Security, Certificate
Master’s Degree Programs
Part-time and full-time options available
- Biodefense, MS (Offered on-campus, online and through a combination of both)
- International Commerce and Policy, MA
- International Security, MA
- Organization Development and Knowledge Management, MS
- Political Science, MA
- Public Administration, MPA
- Public Policy, MPP
- Transportation Policy, Operations, and Logistics, MA
PHD Degree Programs
Part-time and full-time options available
To learn more about graduate programs at the Schar School, fill out the inquiry form to indicate your interest to the Admissions team or register for a virtual open house.
