This biweekly column is sponsored by The Mather in Tysons, Virginia, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better.
Generation X — whose members are currently 43 to 58 years old — has been continually overshadowed by the much larger baby boomer and millennial generations. Yet these days, this “forgotten generation” has moved to the forefront. They are parents; employees and bosses; social, cultural, and political leaders… but who are they?
New research offers a detailed look at Gen X’s key lifestyle trends, attitudes, and interests. The Gen Xperience Study is a five-year research study of Mather Institute, an award-winning resource for research on wellness, aging, and successful aging service innovations. The Institute is the research area of Mather, a not-for-profit organization with other areas of service, community-based initiatives, and luxury senior living communities including The Mather, a Life Plan Community for those 62 and better in Tysons, Virginia.
“The topic of Generation X is important to us for several reasons,” says Raj Radke, Vice President and General Manager of The Mather. “Many of our team members are Gen X; the adult children of many current residents belong to this generation, as do a sizeable percentage of The Mather residents!”
For its Year 1 report, Mather Institute surveyed a nationally representative sample of 2,504 members of Generation X (born between 1965 and 1980). In order to draw comparisons and paint a picture of where Gen Xers might be heading in the future, they also surveyed 2,515 members of the baby boomer generation (born between 1946 and 1964).
“We found that Gen Xers have three clear priorities: family, career, health and wellness,” says Jennifer Smith, PhD, AVP and director of Mather Institute. “Interestingly, we also found that although they are generally satisfied, many of them are also experiencing considerable stress in these same areas.”
For example, it’s no surprise that 81% of Gen Xers are stressed about finances at least sometimes. And — although this generation prioritizes their physical and mental health — nearly one-third of them reported that their wellness is a source of concern: 35% are stressed about their physical health, and 34% are stressed about their mental health. While 96% said that self-care is important to them, two out of five also admitted they don’t get as much self-care as needed.
“We were curious about how these stresses, perspectives, and experiences among Generation X compared to those of baby boomers,” says Jennifer. “We were intrigued to learn that Gen Xers — despite being younger — have more concerns about aging than their boomer counterparts.” The study shows that members of Gen X are specifically worried about their future finances, memory problems, and social isolation. However, when baby boomers think about growing older, they are more concerned about losing their independence.
In short, members of Generation X are doing their best to Age Well. For the most part, they are satisfied with their lives, though many are also coping with stress. The next few years of Mather Institute’s research may reveal changes in both the levels of satisfaction and in stressors.
“The Gen Xperience Study gives us deeper insights into an important generation,” says Radke. “We at The Mather are delighted to have this opportunity to better understand Generation X. We’re looking at ways to apply what we’ve learned from the report to support team members and residents alike.”
The Year 1 findings of the study are available in a free downloadable report, The Gen Xperience: A 5-Year Journey into the Lives of Generation X. You can find it at GenXperienceStudy.com.
The Mather in Tysons, VA, for those 62 and better, is a forward-thinking Life Plan Community that defies expectations of what senior living is supposed to be. It opened in March 2024.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
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 Kimberly H. Berry, Esq.
We represent federal employees in OPM disability retirement matters. Disability retirement for federal employees is one of the most common forms of retirement cases that we handle before federal agencies, the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) and the Office of Personnel Management (OPM).
Federal employees filing for OPM disability retirement are covered by either the Federal Employees Retirement System or the Civil Service Retirement System. When considering OPM disability retirement there are a number of questions that a federal employee should consider as they contemplate whether to file for federal disability retirement. These considerations can include the following:
- How serious are the federal employee’s medical issues (and are they linked to the federal employee’s position description duties)?
When making a disability retirement decision, a federal employee should keep in mind that OPM evaluates an individual’s continued ability to work with their medical condition in the context of the duties described in their position description (PD). If the medical disability is not deemed serious enough, or not fully supported by medical documentation or other evidence, and is not sufficiently linked to their inability to “usefully and efficiently” carry out their PD duties, then OPM may deny the disability retirement application.
- How long is the medical disability realistically expected to last?
OPM requires that a medical disability be expected to last at least one year in duration. When considering whether to file for OPM disability retirement, it is important for a federal employee to evaluate the expected duration of their medical disability. Disabilities with known shorter duration could be problematic in the application process.
- Can the federal employee survive on a reduced annuity?
If a federal employee is considering filing for OPM disability retirement, it is important to understand that this type of retirement usually provides an individual with a lower monthly retirement annuity in comparison to full retirement. As a result, we recommend that federal employees obtain a benefits estimate from their human resources representative and consult with a financial advisor about the impact of a potentially reduced annuity prior to filing for disability retirement. It is important to evaluate one’s ability to support themselves on a reduced annuity before filing for OPM disability retirement.
- Can changes to a federal employee’s position be made to allow the employee to continue to work?
It can be the case that a federal agency will work with a federal employee to provide them with a reasonable accommodation (i.e. change in hours, duties, telework or other possible accommodations) which can make a federal employee’s current position and medical condition workable. This may alleviate the need to file for OPM disability retirement. As a part of the OPM disability retirement process, a federal agency is required to certify that it is unable to accommodate a federal employee’s disabling medical condition in their present position. The federal agency must also certify that it has considered them “for any vacant position in the same agency, at the same grade or pay level, and within the same commuting area, for which [you] qualified for reassignment.” Usually, this does not present a major hurdle to obtaining OPM disability retirement.
- Does the federal employee’s medical professionals support the disability retirement application?
Medical support can be an important factor when filing for disability retirement. In most cases, physicians will be open with their patients about whether it is a good idea to keep working in their current federal employment position. Typically, most physicians are supportive of such applications.
There are at least two good reasons for a federal employee to discuss their possible filing for OPM disability retirement with their treating medical providers in advance. First, a federal employee’s health should be of primary importance and consideration when determining whether continuing in a particular position hinders or impedes their medical recovery. Second, physicians and their medical opinions are necessary and, in fact, crucial in the OPM disability retirement application process.
OPM will require a physician’s statement about a federal employee’s medical condition, and the physician’s statement can often make or break the outcome of an OPM disability retirement application. Sometimes, a federal employee can seek an outside medical expert opinion to support their application for disability retirement, but it is very important to also include a longtime treating physician or other medical professional where possible.
When considering whether or not to file for OPM disability retirement, it is important to obtain the advice and representation of legal counsel. The OPM link for disability retirement is located here. You can contact our law firm through www.berrylegal.com or by telephone at 703-668-0070 to schedule a consultation to discuss your individual disability retirement matter.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Holidays can be challenging for couples going through a divorce, as they may feel lonely and stressed while others are celebrating. To make this difficult time easier, setting realistic expectations, focusing on self-care, and finding new ways to celebrate is important.
This can include creating new traditions, taking a vacation, volunteering, or making new friends. By taking care of yourself and finding new ways to enjoy the holidays, you can survive this difficult time and still find joy during the festive season. Here are some tips for making this difficult time a little easier:
Be Ready to Accept a New Schedule
Many families have hectic holiday schedules. When couples divorce, things can get a little more complex if guardians try to share time with their children while continuing to participate in family traditions and gatherings.
Going into the holidays with an understanding that plans can go awry can help keep you relaxed when changes arise. It would be helpful for parents to discuss their plans beforehand or review court orders to understand and lighten tenses. Getting upset or into arguments with your ex leaves children stressed and anxious.
For example, if the court has ordered your ex to be with the kids during Christmas and New Year’s, be ready to comply with the directive. You can plan to enjoy time with your kids during other days like the weekend or school breaks to make up for the period you missed during the holidays.
Find New Traditions
Breaking away from the holiday traditions you shared with your ex can be difficult, but finding new ways to celebrate alone can help. This may involve being creative and trying new things. One way to do this is by organizing a festive potluck dinner with friends or volunteering in your community to meet new people and make new memories. Embracing new traditions can help you focus on something positive instead of dwelling on the divorce, and with time, these new traditions can become beloved family favorites for you and your children to look back on in the future.
Stay Hopeful for the Future
Although navigating a divorce during the holidays can be trying, it is important to remember that this period of difficulty will eventually come to an end. When the festivities are over, you will be back in control of your life and able to enjoy the holidays again.
To get through this period, it’s crucial to maintain a positive outlook and find new ways to cope with your situation. This will help prevent feelings of depression and defeat during this challenging time.
If It Gets Too Much, Seek Help
Understandably, someone newly divorced would have a difficult time through the holidays. It will take time to adjust. If the load becomes too heavy to bear and you need legal representation, do not hesitate to contact an experienced divorce attorney in your area.
“Divorce lawyers are available to assist you on your way to a new life while experiencing the pains of the end of a marriage,” says divorce attorney Matt Towson, founder of Towson Law Firm. Having one by your side can provide the necessary guidance to help you navigate the legal complexities of divorce. As a result, you may find it easier to regain control and stability in your life.
We can all agree that the plunger is gross, and figuring out what to do with it after clearing a clogged toilet is another matter.
You know how it goes, you plunge your toilet and then look at the plunger afterwards and wonder “Do I just put it on the floor and hope and the germs on it die on their own? Should I rinse it in the tub or sink and hope that the germs aren’t transferred there?” Suffice it to say, regardless of what you do, the traditional plunger is a germ spreader.
But does it have to be that way?
That’s not what longtime Arlington resident and Schoon
inventor Elaine Steele thinks!
The idea for Schoon came to Elaine one morning in January of 2020 after plunging yet another clog in her bathroom in her old house in Arlington. A search of the internet for a plunger that has a way to clean itself yielded no results.
After an exhaustive search of the Patent and Trademark site to find an invention that solves this problem, she found that there were none. Elaine realized that a self-cleaning plunger did not exist.
Elaine approached her longtime friend, Pierre, about the idea of a self-cleaning plunger. Being a germaphobe, he was intrigued, and the two started collaborating on the idea that February. Several designs, a few prototypes, lots of testing, and a patent application later, Schoon was born!
Making Schoon a reality required more elbow grease! Researching and dealing with several manufacturers, part suppliers, and assembly vendors to get a quality product at the right price point was a long journey.
Elaine and Pierre are excited to officially announce that Schoon is now available for purchase online at www.theschoon.com.
So how does Schoon work?
After unclogging your toilet, Schoon allows you to use the included wand to spray disinfectant over the top and the underneath of the plunger cup, cleaning the plunger immediately after use. You can also use your Schoon to disinfect the toilet, sink, floor and surrounding area. Elaine says, “Pierre and I intentionally created a sleek design, so that you can leave your Schoon out and at the ready for use when you need it.”
To learn more about Schoon, visit www.theschoon.com.
Follow Schoon on Facebook and Instagram.
Schoon is a Trademark of ESPM, LLC. Patent number 11808021. Additional Patents Pending.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney Associates. Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479.
Have you explored the culinary treasure that is Fava Pot?
This local gem not only serves authentic Egyptian cuisine but also embodies the passion and vibrancy of our community.
Fava Pot is definitely passion on the plate. Offering a menu filled with savory delights, showcasing owner Dina Daniel’s dedication to quality and tradition. Dina’s remarkable journey, which began as a humble food truck, has evolved into a beloved local restaurant, captivating the taste buds of locals with its authentic Egyptian cuisine.
Fava Pot offers a menu filled with savory delights, showcasing the owner’s dedication to quality and tradition. From koshari to delightful vegetarian options, each dish is a testament to culinary excellence.
Experience firsthand the fusion of tradition, quality, and community vibrancy that makes Fava Pot a true local gem. Your taste buds are in for a treat — join us in this video as we give you the look into the savoring the rich flavors and stories that Fava Pot has to offer.
Sharmane Medaris | Live Fairfax | www.soldbysharmane.com | [email protected] | @soldbysharmane | 813-504-4479 | 374 Maple Avenue Suite 202, Vienna, VA 22180
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
This biweekly column is sponsored by The Mather in Tysons, Virginia, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better.
When it comes to interior design, green is becoming a popular trend for creating thoughtful, inviting, and aesthetically pleasing living spaces.
Green, of course, is referring to sustainable interior design — a style that emphasizes the use of ecologically and ethically conscious furnishings and materials. It’s a widely appealing approach already making its way into places like The Mather, a Life Plan Community for those 62 and better.
With open floor plans and elegant fixtures, The Mather’s modern apartment homes — some up to 3,300 square feet — are a dream for interior designers like Kelly LaPlante. As a sustainability expert, LaPlante is designing the model apartment homes at The Mather with a heightened perspective on eco-friendly possibilities.
“There are so many more companies who are sustainably minded and are offering eco-friendly products,” LaPlante says. “It’s becoming a much more viable option for everyone.”
Basic sustainable interior design begins with placing an emphasis on longevity and flexibility, while being mindful of product life cycles; in other words, how long the product will be of use before it ends up in a landfill. This puts more responsibility on the designer to prevent materials and products from being discarded if they’re still functional.
Over time, some sustainability pursuits evolve based on the client’s or homeowner’s perspective. For example, a person with health concerns might focus on improving indoor air quality by sourcing low-toxicity carpets, finishes, and paints.
“Sustainable interior design refers to creating spaces that are deeply considerate of the planet and people,” LaPlante says. “There are many factors to it, and one’s focus will depend on their personal values.”
When seeking to lighten your environmental footprint, LaPlante suggests starting with the three Rs:
- Reduce — Reduce waste, especially the act of discarding products just because of it going out of style. Minimize the amount of materials and resources whenever possible. Limit purchasing products made with toxins or poorly made products.
- Reuse — Rather than buying replacement furniture, hold onto pieces that are meaningful to you and find ways to give them new life. Consider what you already own, so you’re not contributing to the need for production and shipping, which are hard on the environment. You can use these items as accents to your decor.
- Recycle — Use repurposed furniture. Mix in vintage or antique pieces — and/or pieces that are made from recycled materials. You can reupholster chairs or sofas, change out legs on chairs and tables, and update hardware like drawer pulls. Be responsible about how you dispose of pieces you are done with by recycling whenever possible.
“As with those moving into The Mather this spring, people moving into a new home will have the opportunity to reuse some of their existing pieces, so I’d always encourage starting there,” LaPlante says. “When you do purchase new items, be diligent about looking for pieces that are well made and will stand the test of time — so that they don’t end up in a landfill in five or ten years.”
Kelly adds another recommendation for those interested in sustainability: purchase organic bedding to set the stage for overall health and well-being. “We spend one-third of our lives sleeping, and that is when we do our deepest restoration,” she says. “So make the healthiest possible choices when it comes to your mattress and bedding; your bed should be a toxin-free zone.”
Making healthy choices in interior design — from comforters to couches — can result in a home that’s as ecologically sound as it is attractive.
The Mather in Tysons, VA, for those 62 and better, is a forward-thinking Life Plan Community that defies expectations of what senior living is supposed to be. It opens in 2024.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Written by Mina Lucks, Synergy Design & Construction
The soul of a home is found in the spaces where we cook, gather, and recharge, such as the kitchen and the bathroom. In this article, we delve into the art and science of maximizing functionality and style in kitchen renovations, and we’ll look at the latest innovations in bathroom design and remodeling.
Maximizing Functionality and Style in Kitchen Renovations
While the functionality of a kitchen is key, the style is equally important, as visually appealing kitchens contribute to the overall ambiance and your experience of the home. But how can you successfully achieve both?
Take, for instance, a recent kitchen remodel, where space was maximized without compromising on a polished aesthetic. Innovative storage solutions are woven into the design, enhancing everyday usability and transforming the kitchen into a space that effortlessly caters to the demands of modern living.
Here’s another project where design boundaries were pushed. This space was maximized by adding cabinets to the right-hand side of the kitchen and taking them all the way to the ceiling. An added island separates the kitchen from the family room and provides additional seating without cramping the space.
In balancing practicality with style, it’s all about thoughtfully using every inch of the space you have.
Innovations in Bathroom Design and Remodeling
We are witnessing an evolution in bathroom design with trends that go beyond the basics to create spaces that are luxurious and rejuvenating.
Picture a spa-like sanctuary within your home. This bathroom was transformed into a haven of relaxation — from a natural marble countertop, a collection of floor tile with radiant heating, and a relocated window for natural light, this space is truly a spa-like retreat.
An additional bathroom trend is the incorporation of patterns as a distinctive touch, adding personality and flair.
This bathroom remodel showcases how the integration of these elements can elevate the bathroom experience.
Feeling Inspired?
If your kitchen or bathroom just isn’t cutting it anymore, it may be time to transform these spaces for you, too!
Contact Synergy Design & Construction today at 706-766-6333 or fill out the form www.renovatehappy.com/contact/ and let us be your partner in crafting a home that energizes your everyday experience.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column alternating with “Exploring Fairfax” that takes a deeper look around Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris and Aaron Nichols of McEnearney Associates Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479 and Aaron at 703-915-9852.
This newly opened golf lounge in Centreville is the perfect place to work on your swing, play a round of golf or simply have some fun with your friends!
Whether it’s during the winter months or the hot and humid summer, golfers no longer need to wait for fair weather to hone their skills or enjoy a round with friends. Boasting cutting-edge simulators and a cozy atmosphere, the No. 1 Golf Lounge recreates the unique experience of playing on world-renowned courses, allowing you to tee off against stunning backdrops without ever leaving the comfort of the lounge.
Join us in this video to see what makes this indoor golf destination unique. Whether you’re a serious golfer looking to fine-tune your swing or a beginner eager to learn the basics, this lounge offers customizable settings and professional guidance to cater to individual needs.
The No. 1 Golf Lounge is also a great venue for events and corporate gatherings. From team-building exercises to birthday parties, the lounge’s flexible space and amenities cater to various occasions, providing a memorable and interactive experience for attendees.
Whether you’re aiming for the green or simply seeking a welcoming environment to unwind, the No. 1 Golf Lounge in Centreville will be a great time!
Aaron Nichols | www.nichols.realestate | [email protected] | @itsaaronnichols | 703-915-9852 | 1320 Old Chain Bridge Road, McLean, VA
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
This biweekly column is sponsored by The Mather in Tysons, Virginia, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better.
Research has shown that older adults who engage with the arts in a group setting — anything from dancing to a poetry group to singing in a choir — enjoy tangible benefits in multiple areas of health. This has to do with feelings of mastery, and with social connection.
“This research, combined with Dr. Gene Cohen’s description of life after 50 as a time of potential and inner growth known as the Creative Age, forms a foundation for using creativity to support personal wellness,” says Caroline Edasis, AVP of resident engagement for Mather. Mather is the organization that’s bringing The Mather, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better, opening in Tysons next month.
Mather encourages residents in their existing communities — not just those who are established artists — to try creating new art forms in Open Art Studios. These studios, which position arts engagement as a vehicle for wellness, not just recreation, inviting both lifelong and new artists to explore their own Creative Age in a welcoming group setting.
“While working in diverse media including ceramics and mixed media/painting, participants often realize alongside their peers that they have an untapped expressive ability, a new love for a specific media, or a personal project to pursue,” says Caroline. “One of our master’s-level facilitators, trained in art and psychology, is present to support each individual’s creative journey, and that person helps transform the group into an uplifting community in which residents learn more about each other and themselves.”
Inquiry-Based Art Viewing
Mather also has a signature approach to art appreciation — one that mirrors how contemporary museum practices are evolving. Rather than teaching or encouraging art appreciation with lectures from an expert such as a docent, they focus on inclusive, inquiry-based art-viewing techniques.
“Did you know that the average person spends 17 seconds looking at a work of art in a museum?” asks Caroline. “In our visual literacy programs, we often spend a full hour describing an image, sharing stories conjured by the work of art, or even creating group poems in response to the work. These techniques focus on the interests, experiences, and curiosity of viewers to deliver intellectually stimulating content while challenging us to bring culture down from the pedestal and into our lives.”
The Mather has already formed relationships with local arts organizations, and plans to offer inquiry-based art experiences for residents on-site in museums, theaters, galleries, and more.
Mather recognizes that creativity is about much more than visual art. They encourage everyone to recognize aging as a time of great creative potential, whether through music, poetry, storytelling, dance and movement, or even gardening — the sky is truly the limit.
The Mather, opening in early 2024 in Tysons, VA, for those 62 and better, is a forward-thinking Life Plan Community that defies expectations of what senior living is supposed to be.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
This sponsored column is written by the team at Arrowine & Cheese (4508 Cherry Hill Road in Arlington). Sign up for the email newsletter and receive exclusive discounts and offers. Experience Arrowine’s Tastings & Events. Have a question? Email [email protected].
Happy February!
We’re two months into the new year and Valentine’s Day — less than 24 hours away — is a time for romance, chocolates and best of all, Champagne. But specifically, Grower Champagne like Champagne Bauser.
Kicking your taste buds and with Special Bottling, Champagne Bauser is now available at Arrowine. Just in time for Valentine’s Day!
How did Champagne Bauser come to Arrowine? A little bit of backstory from Doug Rosen himself…
I was hunting for Champagne from the tiny Village of Les Ricey (the home of Marie and Olivier Horiot, whose Champagnes are the best-known, highly allocated, and twice the price. We have a few right now.)
Les Ricey was a favorite source of Champagne for Louis XIV. It is located at the southern end of the Côte des Bar, far removed from the big-name Champagne Houses in Reims, etc. But this sleepy corner of Champagne is a favorite source of grapes for the “Big Gun” Champagne Houses.
Les Ricey’s Champagnes are richly flavored, extremely mineral (for Pinot Noir,) and very Burgundian. Considering how close Les Riceys is to Chablis and that it enjoys the same Kimmeridgian soils, it should not be surprising.
With such a high demand for Les Ricey fruit, few producers and far fewer Estate Bottlers export to the United States and command hefty price tags when they do. But not at Arrowine. At as low as $44.99 a bottle, Champagne Bauser is a “stupid good” and a steal! Don’t drink this standing up; you might pass out from pleasure.
And don’t forget the chocolates and cheese! What’s Champagne on Valentine’s Day without the cheese, charcuterie and chocolates?
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Interested in graduate school?
George Mason University invites you to attend an upcoming open house at Mason Square in Arlington to learn more about the 40+ graduate programs at three Mason academic units: the Schar School of Policy and Government, Costello College of Business, and the Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution at an in-person open house.
When: Thursday, February 22 | Drop by any time between 5-7 p.m.!
Where: Van Metre Hall Multipurpose Room | 3351 Fairfax Drive, Arlington, VA 22201
This is the perfect opportunity to explore your graduate school options, meet your future professors face-to-face, connect with our admissions team, and find out where a Mason graduate degree can take you next.
George Mason University offers in-state tuition to Virginia residents. Plus, incoming Schar School students who reside in Washington, D.C., and Maryland can now qualify for the Regional Pricing Policy for a master’s or certificate program!
Hourly parking is available in the Van Metre Hall Garage. The campus is also metro accessible (Virginia Square — Orange or Silver lines). To learn more about the 40+ graduate programs at George Mason University’s Arlington campus, register for the open house or fill out our inquiry form.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
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
Financial issues are one of the most common security concerns for security clearance holders or applicants. When facing financial issues, it is important to be proactive in attempting to rectify them before they become a reason for the loss of a security clearance. When you run into these issues, it is important to hire a security clearance lawyer to advise you.
Financial issues are often called “Guideline F” cases in security clearance cases. In Guideline F cases, the Government’s concern involves how a person has handled his or her finances and their vulnerability to financial manipulation. The criteria for evaluating such cases are covered in Security Executive Agent Directive (SEAD 4) (pages 15-16).
Here are 5 tips for security clearance holders or applicants when dealing with financial debts and other issues:
- Remain Current on Debts
This can be easier said than done. Most security clearance clients seek our assistance when they have had multiple bills that are past due, delinquent, in collections or have been charged off. In some cases, the debts have been ignored. In financial cases, the existence of multiple unpaid debts is one of the most common reasons for denying a security clearance. The first step is to quickly work to resolve major debts to avoid security clearance issues.
- Work with Creditors (or at Least Attempt to)
A debt cannot always be paid off in full immediately. Additionally, it can be easy to ignore a creditor, especially where the debt is too high or disputed, but that is not a good idea. Clearance holders or applicants who attempt to resolve a debt are far better off than those who ignore it. Sometimes creditors do not return calls or are unreasonable, but the key is to document all of the steps taken to resolve a debt. Even where a creditor is unwilling to respond or resolve matters, this can be very important. It is often the case that a creditor will settle a debt with an individual. Clearance holders or applicants should attempt to work with creditors where possible to resolve their debts. All documentation about such efforts should be retained for possible use later.
- Stay Current with Taxes
Clearance holders in tax trouble or who fail to pay and/or file their taxes take a major risk in losing their security clearance. This risk increases if the issue affects multiple tax years. Tax issues are viewed more significantly for security clearance purposes because they are debts owed to the Government. The Government focuses on both taxes owed and whether or not tax filings were completed on time.
If outstanding taxes or tax liens are too much for the individual to pay off all at once, it is important to try to work out a resolution with the IRS or state/county tax agency. All efforts showing good faith work to resolve tax issues can be helpful if a security clearance issue arises. We often recommend involving a tax attorney or accountant, depending on the severity of the tax issues.
- Report Major Financial Issues to Security Officers
If major financial issues arise, it can be important to report them, in advance, to an individual’s security officer. Doing so in appropriate situations can be used as evidence of mitigation for these security concerns. For example, if a bankruptcy arises, it is important to report that to a security officer. If a clearance holder needs to report a financial issue they should consult with counsel immediately to determine the best course of action.
- Show Financial Stability
When financial security concerns arise, it is helpful for security clearance holders and applicants to show that their finances are being managed well. It is important to show that the individual has a budget, lives within their means, and has a plan for paying off major debts.
Contact Us
When facing financial security concerns it is important to consult with a security clearance lawyer. If you need assistance with a security clearance issue, please contact our office at 703-668-0070 or at www.berrylegal.com to schedule a consultation.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
How are your resolutions going?
A quick Google search for “Top New Year’s Resolutions” returns searches on health, finances, travel and living sustainably.
If you’ve already used a cheat day, skipped the gym and are left staring at the self-help books you bought a couple weeks ago, you’re not alone. But maybe it’s not that you are bad at resolutions… maybe you just need to make a different resolution — one that not only includes that self-improvement we’re looking for, but also the reward of contributing to your community through service.
The volunteers with Fairfax County Fire and Rescue invite you to join them in serving your neighbors by becoming a first responder (EMT, firefighter) or administrative support member at one of 12 volunteer stations in Fairfax County.
Volunteers serve alongside career staff who work 24/7, 365 days, responding to 911 calls for fires, car accidents, health emergencies and more. Volunteers also help with stand-by opportunities such as 5Ks, high school sports contests and community special events; assist with prolonged responses due to size, scale, weather, etc.; and help educate families about fire safety in their home.
No previous experience is necessary — training and equipment is provided.
Volunteers should be ready to:
- Learn and train
- Dedicate their time to practicing and improving their skills
- Contributing to their local fire station, which are all incorporated 501(c)(3) organizations
There is a rush when responding to an incident with “lights and sirens” in your apparatus. There is the challenge of responding to difficult situations with skills you have learned and teammates you must work with. And there is the reward of helping someone on what may be their absolute worst day — because you are among the first to respond.
This year, please consider giving back to the community through service. And if helping others through emergency response sounds like an opportunity you’d like to learn more about, please watch our latest video, learn about our requirements and find a station near you at www.JoinFairfaxFire.org.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney Associates. Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479.
Embark on a culinary journey where exceptional flavors meet community spirit.
If you’re on the lookout for more than just a dining experience, look no further than Hamrock’s Restaurant in the heart of the City of Fairfax. Here, the commitment to providing not only delectable dishes but also fostering a sense of community sets Hamrock’s apart.
Join us in this video to get a glimpse of the passion behind the restaurant and indulge in some behind-the-scenes cooking fun we experienced. Hamrock’s is not just a spot to eat; it’s a place where culinary excellence meets the warmth of community connections.
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect place to make those special occasions truly memorable, look no further than Hamrock’s! Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day (seriously, their brunch is out of this world), Father’s Day, or even Thanksgiving (Pro Tip: the Family Meal Take Out Kits are a game-changer), Hamrock’s has you covered. And don’t get me started on Lobster Sundays — it’s a must-try!
I’ve been to several events at Hamrock’s, and let me tell you, they never disappoint. The vibe, the food, the whole experience — it’s always on point. Trust me; you won’t want to miss out on the magic they create!
Sharmane Medaris | Live Fairfax | www.soldbysharmane.com | [email protected] | @soldbysharmane | 813-504-4479 | 374 Maple Avenue Suite 202, Vienna, VA 22180
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Whenever you get behind the wheel, there’s an expectation that your journey will be safe and uninterrupted. However, as John Lennon said, “Life is what happens when we are busy making other plans.”
While you always intend to arrive safely, unexpected road events can disrupt those plans. Regrettably, despite adhering to all road safety rules, you might be in a car accident.
So, what’s the next step? The aftermath of an accident can be stressful as you deal with both physical and emotional trauma. Yet, in this challenging time, there’s a ray of hope: securing personal injury compensation with the assistance of a dedicated car accident attorney.
The Search for a Car Accident Lawyer
Yes, you may understand the indispensable role of a car accident attorney when seeking compensation. But this is just the beginning. How do you actually find the right one? It may seem complicated with so many attorneys out there today.
But things don’t have to be difficult when you follow this recommended path to finding the right car accident attorney for your case. Here is a rundown of some of the factors to keep in mind in your search:
Attorney Fees
Legal help doesn’t come cheap. But you don’t have to dig into your pockets when working with a personal injury attorney since most use a contingency fee structure. This means the attorney will not ask for any money upfront.
And if you think about it, this model is quite helpful, as you may be dealing with mounting medical bills at the time. With the contingency fee structure, the attorney will get their payment from the compensation you are awarded if you emerge victorious. Most attorneys cap their cut at around 33 percent.
Experience
As you may know, personal injury is a diverse field with many branches, from medical malpractice to workplace injury to animal bites to car accidents. Similarly, most lawyers specialize in a specific branch of personal injury.
Therefore, you should work with a lawyer who specializes in car accidents. The ideal attorney should have taken cases to trial and succeeded, as this bolsters your chances should an out-of-court settlement fail in your case.
Communication
Personal injury law is complex, so it’s understandable that you have many questions. You may want to know what your chances of winning are or what strategy the lawyer will use to ensure your victory.
“A good personal injury attorney should be meticulous and communicative. They should ensure the client fully understands their situation using easy-to-understand language and answer their questions politely and thoroughly,” says attorney Michael McCready of McCreadyLaw Injury Attorneys. As such, don’t be afraid to ask what methods of communication they intend to use if you work together.
Their status
It’s no secret that your attorney’s status in the legal community may affect your case. If you work with a well-respected attorney, the odds may be in your favor. As such, feel free to ask how many of their cases have come from attorney referrals.
You can also do your homework to find out more about their reputation. You can contact the state bar to determine if they have faced any disciplinary actions.
Are they backed by a firm?
You’ll want to work with an attorney with enough resources to handle your case. This means they are backed by a resourceful firm with access to staffers who can handle your case, however complex it may be.
Does the attorney have an organized office space? Do they have other staff available? If so, this is an indication that they are running a professional business.
Conclusion
A qualified car accident lawyer may just be the weight required to tip the scales in your favor and help you win the case. While you may pursue the case yourself, this is inadvisable, as your chances of winning may be lower. And with our list of the factors to look out for when seeking a car accident attorney, finding the right attorney doesn’t have to be complicated.
