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.
Labor Day weekend in Fairfax County is filled with events and activities for all ages! Here are a few to definitely consider adding to your plans.
- Labor Day Car Show (City of Fairfax): This annual car show brings together automotive enthusiasts to showcase a diverse array of classic cars, hot rods, and vintage vehicles. Visitors can enjoy live music, food vendors, and a chance to explore Downtown Fairfax.
- Superheroes Host Kids & Family Labor Day Festival (Tysons): Join Captain America, Spiderman, and Wonder Woman in a fun-filled day for all ages. There will be moonbounces, photobooths, outdoor games and activities, and more! Spend the day with the coolest superheroes and have an unforgettable family day!
- Outdoor Escapes: Enjoy the natural beauty of Fairfax County by hiking in Great Falls Park, Burke Lake Park, or exploring the trails at Mason Neck State Park. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, consider kayaking or canoeing along the Potomac River (check out previous Lakeside video).
- Visit Historic Sites: Fairfax County is rich in history. Take the opportunity to explore sites like George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Gunston Hall, and the Civil War Interpretive Center at Historic Blenheim. Guided tours and demonstrations offer a glimpse into the past.
- City of Fairfax Farmers Market: Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the City of Fairfax Farmers Market over the weekend. Explore local produce, baked goods, artisan crafts, and more while supporting local vendors and enjoying the community atmosphere.
- Wineries & Breweries: Spend a leisurely day at the local wineries and breweries. Enjoy wine tastings at places like Paradise Springs Winery and Winery at Bull Run or sample craft beers at Fair Winds Brewing Company.
Get ready to kick back and enjoy the last splash of summer this Labor Day! Pick activities that make you smile and suit your style. Have a blast and make this Labor Day uniquely yours!
Explore Fairfax with Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney.
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
The Silent Dance Party is back!
Join us for the 2nd Annual Silent Dance Party on Reston Metro Plaza taking place Friday, September 8 from 7-8:30 p.m. Bring your friends and family, and dance like nobody’s watching.
To dance, bring your driver’s license in exchange for a headset. Three live DJ’s will spin different music genres to choose from at the click of a button.
There will be fun for the whole family including glitter tattoos, a bubble-ologist, balloon animals, and so much more!
Come early and grab dinner and drinks at one of the incredible restaurants on the Plaza: Matchbox, Founding Farmers, Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse, Sweet Leaf and Big Buns.
Get ready to party because quiet is the new loud!
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.
Golfing is more than a pleasant pastime: research has shown that regular golf games can offer proven benefits that substantially improve your physical and mental health.
One reason to keep playing: a regular golf schedule can add years to your life — literally. A Swedish study of data on 300,000 golfers found that those who played regularly had a five-year increase in life expectancy over non-golfers of the same age, gender, and socioeconomic status.
Sally Wallace of Fairfax County is a beginning golfer who took up the sport partly for the fact that she will be able to play it later in life. “Someone suggested golf as a social sport, and one that I can do for the rest of my life — it can keep me active,” she says. Even as she prepares to move to The Mather, a Life Plan Community for those 62 and better that’s opening in Tysons in early 2024, she’s embracing her new hobby, and plans to sign up for private lessons with a golf pro. “My goal is to play on a team next June,” she says.
Sally currently lives in suburban area near the main campus of George Mason University, and next spring, will move about 10 miles to The Mather, which is located in a walkable urban neighborhood by Tysons Galleria. “I’m looking forward to the change — I almost can’t wait!” she says. Sally is looking forward to meeting other golfers there, so she can continue to enjoy her new hobby.
Here are some tips on making the most of your time on the green:
- If possible, skip the golf cart. Better yet, skip the caddy. If you play an 18-hole course three to five times a week and walk rather than ride, researchers estimate you’ll get the optimal amount of endurance exercise for good heart health.
- Get your brain in the game. Golf can also improve your brain health. Not only does the physical exercise stimulate nerve cell connections — which can delay mental deterioration and even dementia — the mental aspects of the game can keep cognition sharp. Tallying scores, planning strategy, and focusing on hand-eye coordination all provide healthy workouts for your brain.
- Make it a social game. Getting together with friends and acquaintances has been proven to improve mental health and brain health. So, make the most of socializing during (or before and after) a golf game — catch up on news, share a joke, or make plans for future games.
“I’m a runner, a walker, a swimmer, and a weight-lifter — but those are all solitary pursuits,” says Sally. “I’m looking for that social component. And everyone at the driving range seems very encouraging and welcoming. Golfers seem like a good group to be part of.”
- Let go of stress. Participating in an activity you enjoy, which requires concentration, can release mood-boosting endorphins in the brain. This immediately makes you feel happier and more relaxed. And during the periods of time you spend eliminating or forgetting stress, you are actually reversing its negative effects on your body and brain.
- Enjoy the outdoors. Simply being outside has a positive effect on your mood. Research has shown that regular exposure to “green areas” can cause our bodies to relax and let go of stress, as well as ease anxiety. One study showed that those who exercise outdoors rather than inside experienced greater mood elevation and actually exercised for longer periods of time.
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 early 2024.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Coming up in just a couple of weeks, DC Bike Ride invites you to the region’s favorite social bike ride for riders of all ages and abilities and offers $20 off your Standard Registration now with promo code BIKEDC.
Take over the District and enjoy 20 miles of live music, photo zones, and other fun surprises along the way.
No Bike? No Problem!
DC Bike Ride offers bike rentals during sign-up as well as FREE registration for kids and additional discounts for groups.
See you at the Start Line on Saturday, September 9!
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.
Fairfax County has the ultimate recipe for fun — lakeside adventures!
Imagine a world where nature’s beauty meets endless playtime. Here’s your sneak peek into the coolest lakeside spots that promise smiles, splashes, and unforgettable moments for everyone.
- Burke Lake Park (Burke): Got curious minds and a love for outdoor action? Burke Lake Park is your jackpot! Think of a shimmering lake perfect for paddleboat races and fishing fun. Hike the trails, try mini-golf, and don’t miss the carousel twirls. It’s a natural playground that spells family bonding in capital letters.
- Lake Anne (Reston): Seeking cozy vibes? Lake Anne is your chill spot. Imagine walks by the water, kayaking quests, and lazy lakeside lounging. It’s a picture-perfect place to unwind and soak in the good times with your favorites.
- Occoquan Reservoir (Occuquan): Ready for a hidden gem? Occoquan Reservoir is your zen zone. Kayak or paddleboard through calm waters, play bird detective, and have a picnic like a pro. Trails and nature high-fives are waiting for your gang. Get set for memories that sparkle like the water.
- Lake Accotink (Springfield): Nestled in the heart of nature, Lake Accotink offers an oasis of outdoor fun. Whether it’s fishing, boating, or simply unwinding by the water’s edge, this serene haven has something for everyone. Soak in the beauty, create memories, and let the tranquil waters soothe your soul. Discover the magic of Lake Accotink.
- BONUS — Lake Anna (Spotsylvania): Calling all water lovers, big and small! Lake Anna is your water wonderland. Imagine swimming, splashing, and jet ski zooming. Fishing champs, get ready for a catch-a-palooza. Pack your sunscreen and swimsuits — this lake’s adventures are calling your name.
Ready for action, adventure, and bonding galore? Pack your excitement, snacks, and a dash of curiosity, and head to Fairfax County’s lakes. Nature’s calling, and the best moments are waiting. See you by the water!
Explore Fairfax with Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney.
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
Fall into fun with DC Fray and register for an upcoming league offered at various locations, days and times before spots fill up 
.
We’re offering kickball, pickleball, basketball, softball, tennis, flag football, bocce and much more across Northern Virginia as well as leagues in D.C.
Take a swing at something new or slide into an old favorite pastime. Join as an individual, group of friends, or as a full team.
Secure your spot as leagues fill up fast!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Class A Condo Office Building in Reston.
A beautiful condo office building conveniently located on Sunset Hills Road near Wiehle Avenue — we are within walking distance to the Reston/Wiehle Metro station and easily accessible from the Wiehle Avenue and Reston Parkway toll road exits.
Only one half mile from Reston Town Center with direct access to the W&OD trail. Private interior and/or exterior offices are available furnished or unfurnished with free garage parking.
Building Details:
- $750.00-$950.00 per month
- Rent Includes:
- Shared use of two conference rooms
- Use of copier and fax
- All utilities, except phone
- Internet
- Kitchen/Break Room with refrigerator and microwave
- Cleaning
- Virtual offices also available — $250.00 per month
- Virtual rentals include mailing address and all office amenities listed above
Please call 703-488-7700 or email [email protected] for more information!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Virginia’s luxury builder, NVHomes, is now selling grand townhomes in the City of Fairfax at Boulevard VI.
Starting from the mid $900s, residences offer high-end exterior designs, two-car garage parking, covered outdoor living, and up to 4 bedrooms. Designer finishes, wide-plank flooring, quartz countertops, and LED lighting are included.
Located on the former Paul VI campus, Boulevard VI is a unique urban destination featuring future onsite shops, parks, and trails underway. Metro, I-66, and Route 50 offer easy commutes into Tysons, Arlington, and Washington, D.C.
Nearby hot spots such as Dolce Vita, 99 Ranch Market, Van Dyck Park, Masala Wok, and Starbucks are only a short walk. Buyers also enjoy proximity to date night options in Fairfax City, Mosaic, and the Town of Vienna.
Model home tours are offered daily by appointment and closing cost incentives are available. Come discover luxury living in Fairfax.
Schedule a visit today!
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.
“Happiness is a warm puppy,” according to Peanuts creator Charles Schulz. It turns out that science has proven him right; research has revealed that owning a dog offers many concrete benefits, including positive impacts on physical, mental, and emotional health.
That’s good news for dog owners and their canine-appreciative neighbors who are planning a move to The Mather, a Life Plan Community for those 62 and better that’s opening in Tysons in early 2024. The Mather will be a pet-friendly community, with an adjacent dog park among its many green space amenities.
One future resident of The Mather, who asked to go by M.O.B. for Mother of Barlow, says, “The ability to own pets at The Mather was absolutely instrumental to us. We took our terrier Barlow on a walk around The Mather’s immediate vicinity before we committed ourselves. We wanted to check out the walking opportunities for him and for us.” The Mather’s nearly three acres of private and public green space links to other green spaces, creating a dog-walker’s paradise.
Lou Marotta and his husband Mike Fullwood will move to The Mather with their 100-pound Scottish deerhound Elvis next year. “We’re excited about The Mather. We’ve met all our neighbors on the 27th floor, and Elvis is already the floor’s mascot,” says Lou. Mike points out, “That’s a good example of how dogs have a unifying effect.”
That unifying effect is just one example of the powerful benefits that dogs offer us humans:
Dogs Can Brighten Your Mood
People are hard-wired for connection, and research has proven that simply petting a dog can increase oxytocin levels, a hormone that lowers blood pressure, helps reduce fear and anxiety, and improves alertness.
“That steady companionship enhances your life immeasurably. Ultimately, it’s the emotional role this companion has in your life,” says M.O.B.
Dogs Can Keep You Physically Active
One obvious benefit of having a dog is that it keeps you active. Walking a dog ensures regular physical activity — a key component in staying healthy and independent, boosting mood, and even benefiting the brain. “We walk a minimum of four to six miles a day. He’s got lots of energy!” says M.O.B.
Elvis gets four walks a day. In the past year, he, Lou, and Mike moved from a home in the Virginia countryside to an apartment in Washington, D.C., in preparation for their move to The Mather, and the trio is exploring city life. “We live within walking distance of the Jefferson Memorial and the Washington Monument,” says Mike. “Earlier today, I walked him around the entire Tidal Basin.”
Dogs Strengthen Social Ties
Dog walkers get much more interaction with neighbors than others, as they meet, greet, and talk to those they pass. “Having a dog makes you interact with others more. Being in a new town, we’ve made friends taking Elvis in and out of our building,” says Lou. Mike adds, “Elvis is more noticeable than many dogs, so people are inclined to stop and talk to us.”
M.O.B. enjoys the enthusiasm of others who meet Barlow: “Who doesn’t like to have strangers talk about how wonderful your pet is? There’s a joy to having someone praise your dog.” And she points out a unique aspect of socializing with people on her walks: “When you’re in the company of a dog, you’re identified as a dog person; it’s a welcome sign to interact with you. It fosters community, and the sharing of resources and information with other dog owners,” she says.
Australian researchers found that dog walkers can have a positive effect on their whole community, making community members more likely to interact on the street, meet each other, and even exchange favors with neighbors.
Dogs Can Keep You Alert & Engaged
Petting a dog or cat also strengthens sensations such as touch. Something as simple as touching a pet sustains psychological well-being by stimulating the senses each day. Studies have shown that people also exhibit improved alertness when caring for a pet.
“A dog demands love — and they demand it from you; they need it in order to thrive,” says Lou. “I think that’s good for us as we age — to have something that needs us, another being that we have to care about.”
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 early 2024.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
By Nicola Caul Shelley, Synergy Design & Construction
We’ve all been there: there’s something ‘off’ about a room in your home that you just can’t put your finger on and don’t know how to fix. Or, maybe you’re just looking for some ideas for how to update your space with a fresh, modern look. This month, we’ve got seven ‘dos and don’ts’ to help give your home some interior design pep.
As a full service home remodeling company, Synergy Design & Construction doesn’t offer interior design as a standalone service. However, we not only help our clients with material selections for all of their remodeling finishes (think cabinets, tile, countertops, appliances and fixtures, etc.), we also offer the option of soft goods selection services for clients who would like professional interior design help to finish their space. It’s all part of helping homeowners have a holistic experience so they renovate happy!
1. DON’T Push All of Your Furniture Up Against the Wall
This is a BIG one. All of the furniture pushed up against the walls just doesn’t do a room justice. Don’t despair! If your family room is crying, “Help me!”, it’s an easy fix. If you don’t have room to pull your couch away from the wall, think about adding or moving accent chairs to update the look. Couches and chairs do not need to be part of a set; you can mix and match for more of a designer feel. If your couch moves too much for your liking if it’s pulled away from the wall, add a credenza or heavy console table behind it to help keep it from shifting. It not only looks great, there’s now another place to put drinks and snacks when you’re watching TV or entertaining.
In the example below from a recent home remodel in Reston, none of the furniture sits against a wall. The L-shaped sofa provides a relaxing place to sit facing both the media center and the fireplace. Two armchairs on either side provide additional seating that can be turned towards the fire on a chilly winter evening for a cozy feeling or towards the TV on family movie night.
See more of this project here.
2. DO Curate Display Shelves
Shelves bursting at the seams with knick-knacks, books and piles of ‘stuff’ your kids left there and never put away? Take some time to clear them off and curate them for a more organized look. We’re not saying you can’t have your treasures and books displayed on shelves for a homey feel and personalized touch, but the key is placement of things together for a designer look. Think of grouping items in odd numbers, like threes and fives. Personally, I don’t like the look of books turned spine inwards — what’s the point in that — but if you have tons of books, thin them out, or put a couple of coffee table books together with a modern objet d’art on top as a more design-thoughtful touch.
In this home remodel in Fairfax, our clients opted for our interior design help with the furniture selection and placement in addition to a total main level home remodel. This is a great example of beautifully curated bookshelves flanking either side of the fireplace. Layered lighting and thoughtful furniture placement (note — nothing is pushed up against the walls other than the console table) make this a stand-out Great Room.
See more of this project here.
What can we say, we LOVE gorgeous cabinets. Gone are the days when everything has to be white in the kitchen. There’s nothing wrong with an all-white kitchen for a classic look, but don’t be afraid to mix things up with color. If you aren’t ready to go all-in on colorful cabinets, adding a contrasting island color or floating shelves is a great way to go.
In this kitchen remodel in Reston, we loved our clients’ choice of this “Dakota Shadow” cabinet color. Contrasting maple cabinets and floating shelves were stained in a ‘honey’ color which plays off the existing window and door frame color and provides warmth to the space.
See more of this home remodel here.
4. DO Embrace Black/Dark Colored Doors/Window Trim and ‘Moody’ Paint Colors
You may have noticed many new-builds in the area have black/dark colored exterior window frames. It’s a ‘trend’ that is here for the long-haul and it extends to the interior of homes, too. From black window trim to black interior doors to ‘moody’ painted cabinets and wall color, it’s time to embrace the darker hues. Worried it’s going to make your space too dark? The trick is to lighten things up with contrasting brighter, neutral colors paired with wood tones to keep your space from feeling cold.
In this basement remodel in Reston, our clients wanted to create modern spaces throughout and weren’t afraid to change things up with black interior doors, ‘moody’ colored bar cabinets and paint colors in the home theater and gym — to stunning effect.
See more of this basement remodel here.
5. DON’T Overdo it on Throw Pillows
This is a hard one because lots of throw pillows just make me happy, but it’s time to put a few of them away. This applies not only to the family room, but also to bedrooms as well. For an updated, chic look, less is definitely more. Too many pillows can make a room feel cluttered (plus, how long does it take to remove them all from the bed every night?!) and also distracts from other design elements in the room.
This family room from a main level remodel in Reston is a great example of this. The eye is not drawn to the throw pillows, it’s drawn to the gorgeous sloping roof and statement light fixture instead.
See more of this home remodel here.
6. DON’T Protrude if You ‘Recess In’
Stick with us on this one and let me explain what we mean! If you can recess a cabinet (closet, linen cabinet, etc.) then go for it. Not only does it save space, it gives a more streamlined and flush finish.
In this primary bathroom remodel in Herndon, the linen closet at the far end was recessed in. It not only keeps it out of the way, it also allows the gorgeous walnut vanities and soaking tub to take center stage.
7. DO Go Bold With Wallpaper in Small Spaces
We get it, this seems counterintuitive, but you don’t have to think small in small spaces when it comes to wallpaper! We LOVE wallpaper in any room, but we especially love it when clients take a risk in the powder room. Bold wallpaper can actually make a space look bigger (when it’s done right). The powder room is the perfect place to have some fun and show your personality!
In this main level remodel in Reston, our clients picked the perfect wallpaper in the powder room. It makes a contemporary statement, but is paired with natural finishes (like the rattan light fixture) to perfection.
See more of this home remodel here.
Ready to work with a local home remodeling company who can help you with every aspect to create your dream space? Find out more about us here.
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.
Are you a taco enthusiast on the hunt for new and exciting flavors? Look no further!
Fairfax County has some sensational taco spots, each offering a unique twist on this beloved Mexican classic. Join us on a mouthwatering journey as we explore the freshest additions to the local culinary scene and uncover their mouthwatering signature tacos.
1. Taco Bamba
As one of the most beloved local taco chains in the area, Taco Bamba has earned a reputation for serving up tantalizing tacos with a twist. Chef Victor Albisu’s passion for Mexican street food shines through in every bite. The menu at each Taco Bamba boasts an array of innovative and flavorful options, each bursting with authentic ingredients and bold spices. From their “Bulgogi Bullfight” with Korean pork and gochujang romesco to the “Sweet Meen” featuring honey drizzle fried chicken, every taco at the Vienna location is a taste sensation that transports you to the vibrant streets of Mexico. With vibrant ambiances and creative taco offerings, each Taco Bamba location is a must-visit for taco aficionados seeking a culinary adventure.
2. Fish Taco
For seafood lovers, Fish Taco in Tysons is a coastal-inspired taco haven that transports diners to the shores of Baja California. Specializing in fresh and sustainable seafood, their “Fish Tacos” are a shining star on the menu. Crispy beer-battered fish, tangy slaw, and a creamy chipotle mayo combine to create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Fish Taco’s commitment to using quality ingredients ensures that every taco is a flavorful and wholesome delight. With its beachy ambiance and emphasis on seafood excellence, Fish Taco offers a taco experience that will leave you dreaming of sandy shores and sunny skies.
3. Taco Zocalo
A vibrant Mexican-inspired eatery is a celebration of authentic flavors and culture. Step inside and immerse yourself in a warm and inviting atmosphere adorned with captivating elements of Mexican art and tradition. At Taco Zocalo, they take pride in crafting a diverse menu that showcases the essence of Mexican cuisine. Their specialty lies in an array of mouthwatering tacos, each prepared with love and care. Indulge in a delightful selection of fillings, from succulent carne asada and tender carnitas to zesty chicken, fresh fish, and satisfying vegetarian options.
4. Mama Tigre
Indulge in the culinary artistry of Mama Tigre, where Chef and owner Renu Prakash and her talented team unleash the full force of creativity in their inspired kitchens. Rooted in native Mexican comfort cuisine, Chef Prakash infuses a tantalizing array of exotic and complex spices, drawing inspiration from her motherland, India, to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. From the “Steak ‘N’ Cheese Taco” to “Chicken Tikka Tacos” you will not be disappointed!
Experience the flavors of a vibrant Mexican marketplace at El Pueblo Tacos. Their signature “Tacos Al Carbon” are the traditional tacos with a fiesta of taste for the senses that transport you to the heart of Mexico.
These taco spots in Fairfax County are redefining the culinary landscape with their innovative and delicious creations. Whether you prefer classic recipes or bold fusions, there’s a taco to suit every palate. So, gather your friends, bring your appetite, and embark on a taco adventure like no other! Fairfax County’s taco scene is waiting to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more of these mouthwatering delights.
Explore Fairfax with Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney.
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 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.
Approximately 20,000 federal employees are subject to disciplinary actions a year. Our nationwide federal employee lawyers represent federal employees in these disciplinary cases. Each disciplinary action defense is different and legal assistance is necessary by attorneys familiar with federal employment law.
Disciplinary Process for Federal Employees
There are various types of disciplinary actions for federal employees. These can include letters of counseling, reprimands, suspensions, demotions, and removals. For most serious disciplinary actions, referred to as adverse actions (usually removals), a federal employee will first receive a notice of the proposed discipline and the opportunity to respond. A proposal will typically have an explanation of the conduct or issues leading to the proposed disciplinary action.
If a federal employee is issued a notice of proposed disciplinary action, they will have the opportunity to contest it before it becomes final. Most permanent federal employees (past their probationary period) are entitled to due process. A federal employee can choose to provide a written response, an oral response, or both. We often recommend providing both oral and written responses.
Request Disciplinary Materials
In most disciplinary cases, it is important for federal employees to request all of the materials that have been relied upon by the agency in proposing the discipline. Sometimes they are attached to the proposal, and other times they must be requested. We request these materials before responding on behalf of federal employees at the beginning of a case.
Draft a Written Response
It is important to prepare a full written response to the allegations in proposed disciplinary cases. These responses are typically 5 to 20 pages in length, depending on the underlying facts and number of charges. Most written responses are typically due anywhere from 7 to 30 days after a proposal is given to a federal employee. The written response will address the alleged charges of misconduct or performance and any relevant mitigating factors (also known as the Douglas factors). In our responses, we also attach available evidence that contradicts the charges. Additionally, we attach declarations, affidavits, good performance records, character support letters, and other helpful exhibits.
Presenting the Oral Response
The oral response portion of a federal employee’s response can be very important. While written responses can be key in refuting specific allegations, there is something very important about personally meeting with the Deciding Official that will make the decision. We think that in serious cases, oral responses can make a significant difference in outcomes. We represent federal employees during oral responses. Typically, during an oral response, the federal employee, their attorney, and the Deciding Official (often with their counsel) will be present. The attorney and federal employee will get a chance to argue against the disciplinary action directly to the decision maker. After the oral response, there is usually a few weeks to a few months until a decision is made on the proposed discipline.
Appeals from Disciplinary Decisions
If an unjust disciplinary decision is sustained by a federal agency, there are various options for federal employees to appeal further. If serious enough, an individual can appeal to the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB). Other potential appeals can include filing Equal Employment Opportunity complaints or whistleblower appeals, where applicable. There are also a number of other types of appeals that may be brought, but legal advice is important when making such decisions.
Conclusion
When a federal employee receives or anticipates a proposed disciplinary action, it is important to have an attorney represent or advise them from the beginning. Our lawyers represent federal employees nationwide in all types of federal employee discipline. We can be contacted at www.berrylegal.com or by telephone at (703) 668-0070.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Surprisingly, some are unaware that car accidents are the foremost cause of injury in the United States. This country experiences millions of vehicle crashes yearly, leading to over three million injuries. Statistics show that 90 Americans die daily from motor vehicle accidents.
Perhaps, apart from recovery, compensation is the first thing you or your loved ones think about when involved in a car mishap. You want to know how to recover damages from the at-fault motorist’s insurance firm.
This short piece explains the legal options you can explore after a car accident to claim compensation.
When You Can Sue for a Car Accident
You can only institute a lawsuit for a motor vehicle accident if another person or motorist negligently caused the accident.
At this point, we should understand what negligence entails. Negligence is when a motorist violates or breaches any traffic law or regulation, which leads to harm. It means the intentional, negligent act of the driver leads to an accident that injures someone or a group of people.
Examples of negligence entail driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, erratic driving, and speeding. In addition, it may take the form of carelessness, like drowsy or distracted driving. Some motorists will be texting or calling while driving. If they lose control due to this act and cause an accident, the victim can hold them responsible for negligence.
If another motorist’s negligence triggered or contributed to your car crash and subsequent harm, you can hold them liable for every cost and pain you incurred. The law mandates such negligent drivers to pay for their ill actions if you can prove such allegations against them.
However, your lawsuit lacks merit if the driver’s negligence was unrelated to your harm. In other words, you must prove that their negligence caused your harm for your case to be valid. It means you must cross the hurdles of technicalities to stand a chance of recovering damages from your injuries.
The Compensation You Can Receive for a Car Crash
Many factors dictate the compensation a victim can get for a car accident. Some of these factors include the severity and permanence of your injuries. Sometimes, a car accident compensation can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to cater to medical bills and other costs, like lost earnings due to incapacitation.
While the compensation cannot take away your pains, it aims to restore you to where you would have been financially if the mishap had not happened. It entails economic compensation to repay you for all medical bills and other costs associated with the injury that you have sustained. It also covers possible future ongoing medical expenses, such as physical therapy or medical care.
Furthermore, you can get non-economic damages for the emotional and physical trauma you experienced because of the injuries. This compensation ensures you do not suffer pain or trauma in vain.
The court awards punitive damages in some cases to punish the at-fault party. These punitive damages will serve as a warning to those who may likely toe a similar negligent path.
Speak to a Lawyer
“If you have sustained injuries or lost a loved one to a car accident caused by a negligent driver, hire an auto accident attorney to recover compensation,” says Attorney Rustin Smith of Smith Hulsey Law. They will protect your rights and go after the at-fault motorist to ensure adequate compensation. Allowing an attorney to handle your case will help you concentrate on healing.
Help DC Fray and Founders Row pack the backpack and stock the lockers this school year on Thursday, August 10.
You can earn one raffle entry for every three items you donate and enjoy lawn games, free snacks and Lost Boy Cider tastings. Plus, meet with local schools and children’s foundations to get involved.
Pencil us into your schedule to make a difference for underprivileged youth and have some fun while doing it!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy life at The View Alexandria by Goodwin LivingTM.
Nonprofit and faith-based, Goodwin Living has been supporting, honoring and uplifting the lives of older adults since 1967. Nestled in the hills overlooking Washington, D.C., in Alexandria’s West End, The View Alexandria is the newest member of the Goodwin Living family of senior living communities and healthcare services.
Summertime… and the Living Is Easy
This summer, residents are making the most of the maintenance-free lifestyle that allows them to do all the things they want to do — and none of the things they don’t. They mingle at outdoor barbecues, enjoy sun-filled strolls in the gardens, cool off with an iced drink on the patio, savor seasonal meals in our restaurant-style dining room and take in the breathtaking views of Washington, D.C. in the climate-controlled comfort of our rooftop lounge.
Enjoy Special Limited-Time Savings
This vibrant independent lifestyle is made more affordable by a value-based, no-commitment rental contract. And this summer, living at The View Alexandria has become even more affordable with a special promotion.
Simply become a resident of The View Alexandria by August 31, 2023, and you’ll receive 50% off the community fee.
After you move in, the seasons to follow will be even more exciting, as incredible updates and renovations are being made to the campus.
Learn more about our special limited-time incentives at 703.454.8946 or TheViewAlexandria.org.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
