The Organization for Autism Research (OAR) is dedicated to improving the lives of autistic individuals, their families, and supporters by funding practical research and providing valuable resources. Since its founding in 2001, OAR has awarded millions in research grants, supported autistic students through scholarships, and delivered free, evidence-based resources to the autism community.

In order to highlight our mission, supporters, and efforts, we are hosting a fundraiser to celebrate 25 years as an organization and to raise funds to support our mission and resources. Learn more here:

OAR’s Casino Night

Get ready for a high-energy evening where fun meets purpose, all in support of OAR’s mission. Sip from a full open bar, enjoy savory bites and small plates, and try your luck at table games while connecting with an incredible community of supporters.

Between hands at the tables, browse an expansive silent auction featuring premium items, or step out onto the rooftop terrace to take in the views of Old Town Alexandria. Whether you are playing, mingling, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the evening promises excitement paired with meaningful impact.

Join us to celebrate OAR’s 25-year legacy, support our critical mission, and be part of a community dedicated to making a difference.

Event Details

🗓️ Saturday, September 19, 2026

📍 Above ALX Community
277 S Washington St, Penthouse
Alexandria, Virginia

🕐️ or 🗓️ Schedule:
VIP Hour: 6:00 – 7:00 pm (Exclusive access to games, bar & passed hors d’oeuvres)
Game Play: 7:00 – 9:15 pm
Awards & Silent Auction Results: 9:15 – 10:00 pm

🎟️ Tickets:
All tickets include full access to the open bar, gourmet dinner stations, photo booth, and games. Tickets include “OAR Dollars” which can be used in games throughout the evening.

VIP Admission – $295
Includes $200 in “OAR Dollars,” passed hors d’oeuvres, and exclusive access to the event starting at 6:00 pm
General Admission – $225
Includes $100 in “OAR Dollars” and access to the event starting at 7:00 pm


One of Arlington’s favorite traditions returns this September as the 34th annual Rosslyn Jazz Fest brings an international lineup of music, culture, and community celebration to Gateway Park.

Taking place Saturday, Sept. 12, from 1-7 p.m., Rosslyn Jazz Fest has grown into Arlington’s largest free outdoor music festival, drawing audiences from across the region for an afternoon of world-class performances, food, activities, and dancing under the Rosslyn skyline. This year’s lineup showcases artists whose music spans continents and traditions, reflecting the diversity and vibrancy that define Arlington’s arts scene.

Headlining the festival is Grammy-nominated Plena Libre, one of Puerto Rico’s most celebrated musical groups and a driving force in contemporary plena and bomba music.

For more than three decades, the internationally acclaimed ensemble has captivated audiences with infectious rhythms, masterful musicianship, and high-energy performances that have made them ambassadors of Puerto Rican music around the world.

The full lineup offers an exciting mix of styles and influences:

  • Sally Baby’s Silver Dollars brings the joyful spirit of New Orleans, blending jazz, blues, and vintage swing. 2024 Tiny Desk Contest Finalist
  • Parlor Greens delivers soul jazz, funk, and groove-driven improvisation in the classic organ trio format.
  • Dogo du Togo & The Alagaa Beat Band, a regional favorite, combines Afrobeat, psychedelic rock, and traditional West African influences into a sound uniquely their own.

Returning as emcee is local media personality Tommy McFly, whose enthusiasm and connection to the community have made him a longtime festival favorite.

More than a music festival, Rosslyn Jazz Fest is a celebration of creativity, cultural exchange, and community connection. Festival attendees can enjoy food trucks, outdoor bars, family-friendly activities, lawn games, and plenty of opportunities to relax or dance while experiencing music from around the globe. Set in Gateway Park, the festival offers the perfect blend of urban energy and outdoor gathering space in the heart of Arlington.

Events like Rosslyn Jazz Fest help showcase Arlington’s reputation as one of the nation’s most vibrant arts communities. Through partnerships between Arlington Arts and organizations such as the Rosslyn Business Improvement District, residents and visitors alike have opportunities to experience outstanding performances free of charge while exploring Arlington’s neighborhoods and public spaces.

So bring a blanket, gather some friends, and spend an afternoon discovering new sounds from Puerto Rico, New Orleans, West Africa, and beyond. Rosslyn Jazz Fest returns Saturday, Sept. 12, offering a celebration of music and culture that is uniquely Arlington.

For more information and free registration, visit the Rosslyn Jazz Fest website.


Each week, “Just Reduced” spotlights properties in Arlington County whose prices have been cut over the previous week. The market summary is crafted by Arlington Realty, Inc. Maximize your real estate investment with the team by visiting www.arlingtonrealtyinc.com or calling 703-836-6000 today!

Please note: The properties featured here may be listed with other brokerages– but that doesn’t limit your options. Arlington Realty, Inc. is ready to represent you, arrange showings, analyze value, and negotiate the best possible terms on your behalf. We understand the neighborhoods, pricing trends and market timing — and we use that knowledge to your advantage. 

As of September 7, there are 185 detached homes, 66 townhouses and 270 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 43 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:

Please note that this is solely a selection of Just Reduced properties available in Arlington County. For a complete list of properties within your target budget and specifications, contact Arlington Realty, Inc. 


Incredibly excited to wrap up an awesome first summer. I’ve learned a lot, and I thought I’d share some of those lessons with you.

1. Hiring a JMU intern is a great idea.

This summer we were lucky enough to hire a young man from Woodbridge named Owen, who is a rising senior at JMU. He was exactly the spark we needed to help us push through our first busy summer season. We’ve already made him a job offer for next summer when he graduates, and we’re hopeful he’ll join us full-time.

2. People are generally helpful and want to see you succeed when you’re first starting out.

Over the summer, I was amazed by how many people wanted to help me get a strong start in my business. There were definitely times when I knew folks might not need a new roof, but they were still kind enough to let me come by, take a look, and give them a free estimate just in case. It was inspiring and motivating to know that there are strangers out there who don’t even know me but still want to see me win.

3. Hard work solves most problems.

From the beginning, I’ve been honest about having a lot to learn in this industry. What I’ve come to find is that even when I don’t know exactly what I’m doing, hard work will still often get me to the right result. When in doubt, just keep pushing. This is something I’ll remember as more hard times come and as we get ready to go through the cold winter season.

4. Working with property managers and realtors can be a win-win for everyone.

This year, we’ve built some great relationships with property managers and realtors. These folks are hardworking and busy, and the last thing they have time to worry about is a roof for their clients. We’ve worked with them to install new roofs, windows, gutters, doors, and siding on multiple occasions.

5. Some folks will slam the door in your face without thinking twice.

Things aren’t always easy in this game, and I don’t want to paint an overly rosy picture without talking about some of the hard stuff too. As a new person working hard to get your name out there, it can definitely be a little daunting when someone yells at you or slams the door in your face. Luckily, most people are warm and will at least talk to you, and we’ve appreciated that as we navigate these bumps along the way.

6. Most homeowners just want transparency and great customer service.

It’s wild how many contractors out there really can’t be trusted. We’ve come to learn quickly that homeowners just want fantastic customer service and transparency throughout the process. If you can honestly show someone how the process is going to take place and hold their hand a little along the way, you can make almost all of your customers pretty happy.

7. Homeowners taught me more than any training could have.

(more…)


This regularly scheduled sponsored column is written by Carolanne Korolowicz, Arlington-based Realtor and Arlington resident. If you would like to work with Carolanne in Northern Virginia and the greater D.C. Metro area, you can reach her directly at [email protected].

The 24/7 media circuit constantly reports national and worldwide emergencies and natural disasters. Arlington has had its fair share of emergencies over the decades, but there is a tendency when these disasters are in far-away lands to think – “that won’t ever happen here.” The reality is that emergency situations can happen at any time, to anyone. Rather than viewing from a place of fear, FEMA and other government agencies encourage this to be approached with proactivity.

Since 2004, September has been National Preparedness Month. This year’s theme is “Americans Stand Ready.” Reflecting on what makes our nation strong – unity, resilience and resourcefulness– the goal is for every American to take the proactive steps necessary to protect themselves, households and communities when disaster strikes. There are three pillars to this year’s goal:

  • Americans stand ready to uphold our patriotic duty: When individuals are prepared and self-reliant, we can bolster the work our brave first responders do to help people on their worst day.
  • Americans stand ready to protect our family and friends: We know best how to keep our loved ones safe when things go wrong.
  • Americans stand ready to help our communities: Taking a proactive approach to get your community ready contributes to the nation’s resilience.

Ready.gov has created easy to follow graphics and resources to help prepare for an emergency, including when someone in the household or neighborhood may have disabilities, small children, elderly members, medical/dietary restrictions, or pets. The beginning steps to prepare a household are not complicated, but crucial if an event occurs. Here are easy ways to get started:

Sign up for Alerts: FEMA has a free mobile app that will send alerts and updates when an emergency strikes. Staying on top of what is happening allows for real-time decision making.

Safeguard Documents: Keep vital documents and policy information in a fireproof, waterproof, or bank deposit box. Consider sending copies to trusted family or friends. For electronic documents, secure on a flash/hard drive.

Know Your Home Insurance Policy: Do not assume “everything” is covered under your insurance plan. Research your policy and how to file a claim. Talk to your service provider if you think additional coverage (i.e. flood or earthquake) is necessary.

Secure Your Property:  Consider items in your home that may need repair or replacement. Powerlines, trees, outdoor structures, and furniture are all items that could cause danger during a natural disaster.

Emergency Kit: Creating in-home, in-car and in-work emergency kits are great ways to quickly act when time is of the essence. There are great checklists that make preparing easy, including ideas for individual circumstances (specific medical supplies, infant formula/bottles, pet food, etc.). There are also inexpensive ways to gather a majority of these items– yard sales, buy-nothing groups or thrift stores.

CERT Training: Join the Arlington Community Emergency Response Team. This volunteer group is an amazing way to help community members and first responders during crisis situations. The county provides free, in-person certification classes multiple times throughout the year. Training consists of eight classes, over four weeks. Previous situations where CERT volunteers made an impact in Arlington include passing out ice to residents during power outages, clearing snow off fire hydrants, and setting up food & water stations for first responders.

It is always hard to feel fully prepared for the unexpected, but knowledge and proactiveness are the necessary tools when facing an emergency. For more helpful tips and information visit Arlington’s Public Safety Communications & Emergency Management Department’s website.


This sponsored column is by Law Office of James Montana PLLC. All questions about it should be directed to James Montana, Esq., Janice Chen, Esq., and Victoria Khaydar, Esq., practicing attorneys at The Law Office of James Montana PLLC, an immigration-focused law firm located in Falls Church, Virginia. The legal information given here is general in nature. If you want legal advice, contact us for an appointment.

This complaint about the quality of copper ingots has been rejected, because it was submitted on the a tablet of improper diameter. On on after 1750 BC, complainants must use the new tablet... Image is free for public use. Attribution here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ea-nir
This complaint about the quality of copper ingots has been rejected, because it was submitted on the a tablet of improper diameter. On on after 1750 BC, complainants must use the new tablet… Image is free for public use. Attribution here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ea-n%C4%81%E1%B9%A3ir

USCIS administers immigration benefits. In the time-honored tradition of government agencies since the days of Ur and Uruk, USCIS uses forms to collect, store, and interpret information. Immigrants complete these forms in order to obtain benefits. Most U.S. citizens have no idea what reams of paperwork these forms require. An ordinary green card application is comprised of ninety-seven pages of bare forms, which typically are supported by several hundred pages of supporting documents.

In better times, forms are a necessary evil. In the times we actually live in, forms are just another weapon with which to thwack your political opponents.

In the second iteration of the Trump Administration, USCIS has discovered a new, extremely petty way to make immigrants’ lives more difficult – by releasing new form versions which make utterly minute changes, and then decrees that yesterday’s official version is obsolete as of today.

The Office of Management and Budget, by the way, requires that all government forms have an ‘edition date’ and an ‘expiration date.’ USCIS evades this neatly by making the expiration date purely notional – the form can be valid after the expiration date, and it can be decreed obsolete at any time before or after the expiration date. (The edition date is notional, too – in the first months of the Trump Administration, USCIS persistently released forms backdated to January 20, 2025, seemingly just for the inaugural vibes.) The forms altered in the last two weeks are highlighted below.

  1. Form G-28. Four pages, stating that a lawyer represents you.
  2. Form G-28. Four more pages, stating that the same lawyer represents your spouse.
  3. Form I-130. A twelve-page biographical survey of you, the U.S. citizen.
  4. Form I-130A. A six-page biographical survey of your spouse.
  5. Form I-131. A fourteen-page request for permission to travel while the government thinks about whether to grant the green card application.
  6. Form I-485. A twenty-four pager. This is the green card application itself. It repeats all of the biographical detail from Forms I-130 and I-130A.
  7. Form I-693. A fourteen-page list of certifications concerning your health and fitness. (No, your family doctor can’t do it for you – you have to go to someone called a Designated Civil Surgeon.)
  8. Form I-765. A seven-page request for a work permit while the government thinks about whether to grant your green card application.
  9. Form I-864. A twelve-page contract in which you (the U.S. citizen) promise to repay the government for welfare benefits, if your spouse draws on them, and in which you further promise to keep your spouse above the poverty line. (more…)

Each week, “Just Reduced” spotlights properties in Arlington County whose prices have been cut over the previous week. The market summary is crafted by Arlington Realty, Inc. Maximize your real estate investment with the team by visiting www.arlingtonrealtyinc.com or calling 703-836-6000 today!

Please note: The properties featured here may be listed with other brokerages– but that doesn’t limit your options. Arlington Realty, Inc. is ready to represent you, arrange showings, analyze value, and negotiate the best possible terms on your behalf. We understand the neighborhoods, pricing trends and market timing — and we use that knowledge to your advantage. 

As of August 31, there are 175 detached homes, 60 townhouses and 249 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 42 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:

Please note that this is solely a selection of Just Reduced properties available in Arlington County. For a complete list of properties within your target budget and specifications, contact Arlington Realty, Inc. 


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