Sponsored

Ask Eli: Grateful for another year

By Sponsor

This regularly scheduled sponsored column is written by Eli Tucker, Arlington-based Realtor and Arlington resident. If you would like to work with Eli and his team in Northern Virginia and the greater D.C. Metro area, you can reach him directly at Eli@EliResidential.com.

Eli and his team believe that your real estate needs should be managed by advisors, not salespeople. Their mission is to guide, educate, and advocate for their clients through real advice, hands-on support, and personalized service.

Merry Christmas and Hanukkah Eve! I’m grateful for another year with the opportunity to connect with you each week about real estate. The ARLnow community is wonderful and unique — thank you to Scott and the ARLnow team for building and supporting a platform that is a true community benefit.

Every year I like to reflect on what I’m most grateful for about living and working in Arlington. I also love to hear from you on the same. Here’s my list:

Diversity of Great Food

Arlington itself offers wonderfully diverse cuisines and when you add neighboring jurisdictions of Washington, D.C., Annandale, Alexandria, and Falls Church to the mix we have access to delicious international cuisine from every corner of the world within 20-30 minutes.

Passionate Neighbors

While we lack agreement on topics like Missing Middle, we do not lack passion. I appreciate how passionate both sides of the Missing Middle policy are and trust that in the long run, that passion will result in a great next generation housing policy for Arlington.

Airports

I don’t travel often, but when I do I’m grateful for our nearby national and international airports that are easily accessible by multiple modes of public and private transportation.

Parks and Recreation

No matter where you live in Arlington, you have access to an incredible network of trails, parks, and rec centers for endless outdoor enjoyment that costs nothing. Arlington’s trails and parks have given me so much joy over the years with family and friends.

Schools

Being an educator has become extraordinarily difficult and complex and I’m grateful for all the hardworking teachers, staff, and administrators who work hard, oftentimes thankless, hours keeping the Arlington Public Schools among the best in the country for our kids.

Jobs and Small Businesses

The robust and diverse job market in Arlington keeps unemployment low and the economy thriving. I’m especially thankful for all the entrepreneurs and risk-takers who fill every nook and cranny of Arlington with small businesses despite the daily challenges.

The ERG Team

I get to work with an amazingly talented and uplifting team:

  • Tonya Nelson (Director of Everything): Where would I be without Tonya? She allows me to be a father, husband, and friend and keeps the ship straight every day of the week. Thanks and gratitude will never be enough.
  • Val Connolly (Agent): We’ve worked as colleagues and partners for a decade and she’s now building a great business around her new home in Loudoun County.
  • Jean Ropp (Agent): Amazing mother of two beautiful little boys and still works her tail off for clients with endless smiles and positivity.
  • Carolanne Korolowicz (Agent): A new mother and 6t  generation Arlingtonian, I learn something interesting from her about Arlington and its history every time we talk.
  • Brian Wyatt (Retired): Brian and I got to spend seven years working together from the very earliest days of ERG. It was a great journey together, enjoy retirement!
From left to right: Jean, Val, Tonya and Carolanne

If you’d like to discuss buying, selling, investing, or renting, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at [email protected].

If you’d like a question answered in my weekly column or to discuss buying, selling, renting, or investing, please send an email to [email protected]. To read any of my older posts, visit the blog section of my website at EliResidential.com. Call me directly at (703) 539-2529.

Video summaries of some articles can be found on YouTube on the Eli Residential channel.

Eli Tucker is a licensed Realtor in Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland with RLAH Real Estate, 4040 N Fairfax Dr #10C Arlington VA 22203. (703) 390-9460. 

Arts Focus: Synetic Theater presents “Little Comedies” for the holidays

By Sponsor
Synetic Theater’s “Little Comedies” (Courtesy Synetic Theatre for promotion)

This column is sponsored by Arlington Arts/Arlington Cultural Affairs, a division of Arlington Economic Development.

Looking for a family-friendly outing this holiday season?

Synetic Theater’s “Little Comedies” offers a delightful escape. Performed in an intimate black box setting, this reimagined version of Synetic’s beloved “The Music Box” features enchanting, wordless vignettes brought to life through pantomime, masks and choreography — all set to mesmerizing music.

Audiences of all ages will be captivated by imaginative tales, including a janitor and a businessperson whose lives are transformed by a magical mask and two cowboys in the Wild West hilariously attempting to wrangle a loose bull. This unique production blends physical theater, dance and mime to create an unforgettable journey through comedy and fantasy.

Synetic Theater, founded in 2001 by Georgian immigrants Paata and Irina Tsikurishvili, has redefined storytelling in the Washington, D.C., area. The duo, who emigrated from Georgia in 1995, combines dance, theater and film with Caucasus traditions and distinctly American styles.

Synetic has earned more than 100 Helen Hayes Award nominations, accolades from the American Theatre Wing and the title of “Washingtonians of the Year” from “Washingtonian” magazine for its founders.

This production is presented with support from Arlington Cultural Affairs, a division of Arlington Economic Development which delivers public activities and programs as Arlington Arts. Our mission is to create, support, and promote the arts, connecting artists and community to reflect the diversity of Arlington. For an array of activities across the visual and performing arts, please visit our Winter Arts Highlights page.

Directed by Irina Tsikurishvili, “Little Comedies” runs December 20, 2024, through January 4, 2025 at Theatre on the Run, located at 3700 S. Four Mile Run Drive, Arlington, VA. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Synetic Theater’s website.

Statutes of Liberty: Meet your new immigration lawyer, Taryn Druge!

By Sponsor

This sponsored column is by Law Office of James Montana PLLC. All questions about it should be directed to James Montana, Esq. and Janice Chen, 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.

Christmas came early here at The Law Office of James Montana PLLC — Taryn L. Druge, Esq., joined us as an associate attorney. We are thrilled to introduce her to the ARLnow readership, and, of course, the commentariat.

Taryn Druge is here, and we are happy to have her. We’re just terrible at pictures, that’s all.

By way of introduction, here is a brief Q&A between Ms. Druge and our august founder.

Montana: You have an unusual last name. How do you pronounce it?

Druge: It is pronounced like “Scrooge” but with a D at the beginning.

Montana: So, not like the G in centrifuge.

Druge: No.

Montana: So the pointy-headed boss has been pronouncing your name incorrectly from your first day on the job, until this interview?

Druge: Yes.

Montana: It’s becoming something of a tradition here. Let’s introduce the readers to your legal background. What makes you such a wonderful addition to the firm?

Druge: I started in law school working as a law clerk at an immigration firm, and gained a lot of experience there. I also worked in a boutique civil litigation firm in New York, where I gained experience in motions practice, working with a wide variety of clients.

Montana: What made you want to practice immigration law?

Druge: I think that immigration law drew me in for the same reason I wanted to be a lawyer in the first place: I like the idea of solving problems. In my capacity as an immigration lawyer, I can help individuals to improve their lives; and, on a larger level, I think that lawyers help to add a certain amount of order to our larger society.

Montana: The people should be grateful. Why aren’t they?

Druge: Not every lawyer is called to the bar because they want to help people. Some people — and stop me if this sounds implausible to you — are here for the money.

Montana: At the rates we charge, that certainly isn’t true around here. What sorts of immigration cases do you like best?

Druge: Oooh, good question. I like the cases that pose special challenges — where we see particular obstacles, and are able to help clients to overcome unusual hurdles.

Montana: If you could change one thing about our immigration system, what would it be?

Druge: SHORTER FORMS.

Montana: Why would you choose that change?

Druge: It would make us, as immigration lawyers, less necessary.

Montana: Don’t give them any ideas. Or, rather, do. I would welcome a simpler system — we could help a higher volume of people that way.

Druge: I completely agree.

Montana: Speaking of which — do you have any openings for new consultations?

Druge: Yes, I do! Here is the link to schedule one directly in my calendar. Make sure the readers know that we charge for consultations here: $220 for the initial consultation; but if you hire us to do further work in your case, we subtract that from the bill!

Montana: Wonderful. I’m very glad that you’ve joined the practice, and we’ll do our best together to help clients to — as you put it — solve problems, and live lives of dignity.

As always, we are grateful for your questions and comments, and will do our best to respond.

Fuse at Mason Square: Innovation from the ground up

By Sponsor
Fuse at Mason Square

George Mason University’s new Fuse at Mason Square in Arlington, is a 345,000-square-foot collaborative and digital innovation space in the heart of the Rosslyn-Ballston Corridor.

“As Mason expands in Arlington, Fairfax, and Prince William counties, Fuse is a groundbreaking project that is redefining the modern university’s role in catalyzing business and talent growth in the region,” says Liza Wilson Durant, Mason’s associate provost for strategic initiatives and community. “With it, we are one step closer to having a destination to collaborate with partners in the development of new technologies.”

Fuse is now open for commercial use and set to welcome students in fall 2025. Fuse at Mason Square will transform the innovation landscape in the region, with opportunities for students, researchers, and commercial partners to be part of an immersive atmosphere of ideation and innovation.

This building aligns with Mason’s mission of propelling Northern Virginia’s transition into a global technology hub. Fuse will also expand research opportunities at Mason, which is already classified as a top research institution by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

“Fuse will hit the mark on so many levels,” Wilson Durant says. “It will be at the nexus of all Mason does in digital innovation.”

Biz Talk: AED celebrates a year of growth, partnerships and community impact

By Sponsor
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This article is sponsored by Arlington Economic Development’s Business Investment Group.

Arlington Economic Development (AED) is celebrating a banner year in 2024, one that solidifies Arlington’s reputation as a global hub for innovation, collaboration and economic opportunity.

From fostering local entrepreneurship to forging international partnerships, AED’s achievements are driving lasting economic benefits while showcasing Arlington as a premier destination for business and technology.

Elevating Arlington on the Global Stage

This year, Arlington joined the prestigious Americas Competitiveness Exchange (ACE), a global economic development and innovation network with more than 40 participating nations. Through its participation in events in Detroit and Yerevan, Armenia, AED highlighted Arlington’s thriving business ecosystem, groundbreaking initiatives and sustainability efforts. These engagements fostered deeper relationships with international partners, creating new avenues for local businesses to expand their reach.

Arlington also welcomed delegations from countries such as Argentina, Armenia, Germany, Guatemala and Spain, engaging in forward-looking discussions on sustainable growth, smart cities and innovation driven by the private sector. These collaborations cement Arlington’s position as a global leader in economic development while infusing fresh perspectives and investment opportunities into the local economy.

Fostering Local Innovation and Inclusion

On the local level, AED launched the #LaTech community, which now includes more than 30 Latino tech entrepreneurs. This dynamic network celebrates diversity and innovation, demonstrating Arlington’s commitment to creating opportunities for entrepreneurs from all backgrounds. Initiatives like #LaTech strengthen Arlington’s tech ecosystem while ensuring that economic growth benefits the entire community.

One standout moment of the year was the visit from Ernesto Kruger, CEO of Ecuador-based Kruger Corporation. During his trip, Kruger explored Arlington as a potential hub for global expansion, meeting with leading organizations such as AWS Skills Center, Excella, and local startups Trustible and Pryze, as well as universities like George Mason and Northeastern. These engagements showcased Arlington’s collaborative spirit and its appeal to businesses seeking innovation and growth opportunities.

Showcasing Arlington’s Cutting-Edge Tech Ecosystem

AED’s #TechShowcase at Genetec’s U.S. Experience Center was another highlight of the year, bringing together entrepreneurs, academic leaders, and international dignitaries to explore the latest advancements in technology. Events like these bolster the strength of Arlington’s tech ecosystem and its ability to connect local businesses with global opportunities. The showcase celebrated Arlington’s leadership in technological innovation while setting the stage for future partnerships and collaborations.

A Year of Progress and Promise

“2024 has been a year of significant progress for Arlington,” said Adriana Bonilla, International Business Investment Lead at AED. “We’ve expanded our global connections while driving economic growth that will benefit our local businesses and community for years to come.”

AED’s strategic efforts to attract international investment, nurture local innovation and promote inclusivity are ensuring that Arlington remains a vibrant place to live, work and thrive.

As AED looks ahead to 2025, the department is eager to build on this year’s successes, driving initiatives that connect Arlington with the world, create jobs and deliver economic opportunities that benefit the entire community.

To stay up to date on Arlington expansion opportunities and updates, subscribe to AED’s email list and be the first to hear about news and announcements for international and domestic companies interested in exploring Arlington as a business location.

CMIT Solutions: Network monitoring for SMBs

By Sponsor
CMIT Solutions

Proactive network monitoring involves continuously observing and analyzing a network’s performance to identify and address potential issues before they escalate into significant problems.

Unlike reactive monitoring, which only responds to issues after they occur, proactive monitoring aims to prevent downtime, security breaches, and performance bottlenecks by detecting anomalies early and taking preemptive actions.

Why Proactive Network Monitoring is Important for SMBs

  • Early Detection of Threats: Cyber threats can infiltrate a network in seconds, but the damage they cause can take months or even years to fully recover from. Proactive monitoring helps detect suspicious activities early, allowing the IT team to respond before any significant damage is done.
  • Minimized Downtime: Network downtime can be costly, both in terms of lost revenue and damage to reputation. By monitoring the network continuously, potential issues can be addressed before they cause outages, ensuring the business remains operational.
  • Improved Performance and Reliability: Network performance issues can hinder productivity. Proactive monitoring helps identify bottlenecks and other performance-related problems, enabling the optimization of the network for better efficiency and reliability.
  • Compliance and Reporting: Many industries require strict compliance with data protection regulations. Proactive network monitoring helps ensure that the business remains compliant by regularly checking for vulnerabilities and maintaining detailed logs for audits.
  • Cost-Effective Security: For SMBs, budget constraints are a constant challenge. Proactive monitoring allows for more efficient management of the IT infrastructure, often preventing expensive repairs or costly breaches, ultimately saving your business, organization, or entity money in the long run.

Contact CMIT Solutions

Don’t wait until there is an issue with your network which then affects your productivity! Contact CMIT Solutions online or by phone (571-652-2439) today and get this addressed.

Contact CMIT Solutions

Just Reduced Properties in Arlington: December 18, 2024

By Sponsor

Each week, “Just Reduced” spotlights properties in Arlington County whose price 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: While Arlington Realty, Inc. provides this information for the community, it may not be the listing company of these homes.

As of December 16, there are 97 detached homes, 20 townhouses and 135 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 10 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:

4630 15th Street N.

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.

Ask Eli: Buyer Workshop on January 14

By Sponsor

This regularly scheduled sponsored column is written by Eli Tucker, Arlington-based Realtor and Arlington resident. If you would like to work with Eli and his team in Northern Virginia and the greater D.C. Metro area, you can reach him directly at Eli@EliResidential.com.

Eli and his team believe that your real estate needs should be managed by advisors, not salespeople. Their mission is to guide, educate, and advocate for their clients through real advice, hands-on support, and personalized service.

On Tuesday, January 14, I’ll be hosting another Ask Eli Home Buyer Workshop with my business partner Jean Ropp and local Loan Officer, Matt Ropp, with Atlantic Coast Mortgage. Food and drinks will be provided!

The workshop is a free and will cover:

  • New laws affecting buyer agent representation and commission
  • How to use data and strategy to maximize your home purchase
  • How to use market trends to your advantage
  • The latest on interest rates and mortgage programs/products
  • Common mistakes to avoid and some tips for success

Who is it for?

  • Any buyer type from first-time buyer to experienced buyers
  • Ready to purchase now or planning 12+ months out
  • Home buyers in Northern Virginia, D.C., or the Maryland Suburbs
  • You or anybody you know who would benefit

Where and When?

  • Tuesday, January 14 from 6-7:30 p.m.
  • Arlington Central Library (1015 N. Quincy Street), Bluemont Room

Registration is now open and space is limited. Click the graphic below to RSVP.

Bring your appetite and your home buying questions! I’d love to see you there. Feel free to email me at [email protected] with any questions about the event.

Ask Eli’s Buyer Workshop Jan. 14

If you’d like to discuss buying, selling, investing, or renting, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at [email protected].

If you’d like a question answered in my weekly column or to discuss buying, selling, renting, or investing, please send an email to [email protected]. To read any of my older posts, visit the blog section of my website at EliResidential.com. Call me directly at (703) 539-2529.

Video summaries of some articles can be found on YouTube on the Eli Residential channel.

Eli Tucker is a licensed Realtor in Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland with RLAH Real Estate, 4040 N Fairfax Dr #10C Arlington VA 22203. (703) 390-9460. 

Register Now!

Last minute holiday shopping? Lee Heights Shops has something for everyone on your list

By Sponsor
Lee Heights Shops

Lee Heights Shops, a charming destination on Cherry Hill Road, captures the spirit of our local community!

With an outstanding collection of independent boutiques, specialty shops and services, plus delicious dining options, Lee Heights Shops is sure to please everyone in your family.

Our shops include:

Our intimate scale, pedestrian and pet friendly layout with free parking make Lee Heights a fun and convenient place to shop, dine, and be pampered.

We look forward to seeing you under the awnings this holiday season!

Lee Heights Shops | 4500 block of Cherry Hill Road, Arlington, VA | www.leeheightsshops.com

Shop Today!

Legal Insider: Defending federal employees in investigations

By Sponsor

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.

Our law firm defends federal employees in investigations and disciplinary actions. Almost all federal employee disciplinary cases start with a misconduct investigation. When a federal employee is subject to an investigation, it is essential to retain a federal employee lawyer as soon as possible.

Issues Commonly Investigated by Agencies

While anything can prompt an investigation by a federal agency, some of the more common issues that trigger an investigation include the following:

  • Absence Without Leave
  • General Misconduct at Work
  • Lack of Candor or Integrity Issues
  • Misuse of a Government Computer/Internet/Fax
  • Misuse of a Government Credit Card, Vehicle or Travel Card
  • Public Complaints
  • Sexual Harassment or Discrimination in the Workplace
  • Time Card/Attendance Issues
  • Off-Duty Criminal, Alcohol/Traffic Conduct
  • Security Violations
  • Insubordination
  • Disrespectful Conduct in the Workplace

How Federal Employee Investigations Usually Start

Federal employee investigations usually start when the individual is called by an investigator to set up an interview. Investigators almost never provide specific information about the nature of an investigation until the federal employee arrives at the meeting.

The type of investigator assigned to the case can vary. The investigator can be a supervisor, an agency investigator, an individual from human resources, or an agent assigned by the agency’s Office of Inspector General (OIG). Federal employees usually start out with very little information when the process starts.

Investigative Interviews

In many instances, a federal employee will attend the scheduled meeting and an investigator will just start asking them questions. This can be problematic if the individual doesn’t have legal counsel. In some cases, however, the interviewer may start by asking the federal employee to sign a statement agreeing to be voluntarily interviewed and waiving all of their rights. This is the most common method and offers little protection to a federal employee.

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Rossen Landscape seasonal giveaway

By Sponsor
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This holiday season, we’re partnering with Brx American Bistro to create a cozy, memorable experience for you and your loved ones.

At Rossen Landscape, we believe in making every moment spent at home meaningful and inviting, so we’re adding a touch of seasonal charm to your space to help set the stage for unforgettable gatherings.

🎁 Here’s what’s included in our Holiday Giveaway:

🍽️ A $150 Gift Card to Brx American Bistro.
🔥 Cozy up this season with a Solo Bonfire Firepit by Rossen Landscape, bringing warmth and unforgettable moments to your outdoor gatherings!
🌿 Bonus: A stylish planter pot that fits perfectly into the firepit, transforming it into a decorative piece when not in use.

✨ How to Enter

Follow @RossenLandscape and @brxamericanbistro.

More Ways to Win

1️⃣ One additional entry for each person you tag and would like to share this experience with.
2️⃣ Sign up for Rossen and BRX’s email lists for an additional entry.
3️⃣ Share this post to your story for an additional entry.

Let’s make your holiday season a time for connection, warmth, and celebration. Enter for your chance to create memories that last a lifetime!

Giveaway ends December 20. Winner will be announced on December 23.

✨Good luck!

Small Business Focus: BizLaunch’s Transformational Challenge and PitchFest

By Sponsor
BizLaunch’s Transformational Challenge and PitchFest

This column is sponsored by BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.

Transform your business in 2025 with BizLaunch’s Transformational Challenge and PitchFest — Early Bird Registration Closes December 31.

As we gear up for 2025, BizLaunch is thrilled to present the Transformational Challenge and PitchFest — a dynamic event designed to empower local entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge and opportunities they need to excel in today’s competitive market. Building on the success of last year’s program, which awarded a $5,000 grand cash prize, this year promises to be even more impactful. Powered by BizLaunch and SCORE, this event is the perfect platform to elevate your business.

What is BizLaunch Transformational Challenge and PitchFest? 

The BizLaunch Transformational Challenge  and PitchFest is a four-week program featuring expert-led sessions, hands-on workshops, and an exciting pitch competition. It offers small business owners a chance to refine their strategies, adopt cutting-edge technologies, and secure funding to scale their operations.

Why Should You Participate?

  • Expert Guidance: Gain invaluable insights from industry leaders and seasoned entrepreneurs. The program kicks off on January 30, 2025, with a session on using the Lean Business Model Canvas to develop winning strategies for the new year.
  • AI Integration: Learn how artificial intelligence can transform your business operations. On February 6, 2025, Dr. Ebony Grey will lead a session on applying AI in marketing, operations, and planning, highlighting tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot to boost productivity.
  • Financial Mastery: Strengthen your financial planning skills with guidance from experts at Wacif and Arlington Community Federal Credit Union. On February 13, 2025, discover how to craft winning financial projections and access capital to fuel your growth.
  • Pitch Perfect: Wrap up the training portion of the program on February 20, 2025, with a workshop on crafting a compelling pitch. Get actionable feedback from instructors and peers. Then, in April, put your skills to the test in the final pitch competition, where you’ll compete for a cash prize!

The Benefits of Participation 

  • Skill Development: Gain practical, actionable strategies in financial planning, AI integration, and business growth.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, potential investors, and industry experts. Building relationships is essential for business success.
  • Cash Prizes: Compete for cash prizes to give your business a financial boost. Registration fees and sponsorships contribute to the prize pool, making this a true community-driven initiative.

How to Get Involved

Registration is open now, but space is limited. Take advantage of early bird pricing by registering before December 31, 2024, and start 2025 with a strong foundation for success. Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or just starting your journey, the BizLaunch Transformational Challenge and PitchFest has something for everyone.

Ready to take your business to the next level?

Register today and join us for an unforgettable journey of growth, learning and success. Let’s make 2025 the year your business transforms and thrives!

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