This column is sponsored by BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
Arlington boasts a vibrant community of Black-owned businesses that significantly contribute to the county’s cultural richness and economic vitality.
Celebrating and supporting these enterprises honors Black heritage and fosters a diverse and thriving local economy. This past February, in partnership with the National Landing BID, we had the amazing opportunity to interview a leading entrepreneur in the community, Chef Rock Harper, with Queen Mother’s Kitchen, as part of the “Innovation Economy with Arlington Economic Development” podcast.
The robust discussion included all aspects of Chef Harper’s career, from mentorship to winning Hell’s Kitchen Season Three to why he chose Arlington as his first restaurant, launching Queen Mother’s in National Landing.
In keeping with supporting diverse entrepreneurs, please save the date of April 10 as BizLaunch and the Hyatt Regency Crystal City at Reagan National Airport will be hosting a Minority Vendor Showcase.
Vendor applications are currently open, and we invite all minority vendors to apply. The theme this year will be Food, Fuel, Fitness and Fun. The Showcase is an excellent opportunity to showcase your business to Hyatt Regency as many purchasing agents from the hospitality industry will be in attendance.
This is a sponsored column by attorneys John Berry and Kimberly Berry of Berry & Berry, PLLC, an employment and labor law firm located in Northern Virginia that specializes in federal employee, security clearance, retirement and private sector employee matters.
By John V. Berry, Esq
The polygraph examination is a key component of the security clearance process for individuals seeking access to classified information in sensitive government positions, usually within the Intelligence Community (IC).
The test measures physiological responses — such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration — while the subject answers a series of questions. The goal is to determine whether the individual is being truthful, particularly about issues that could pose a security risk, such as drug use, criminal activity, or foreign contacts.
However, some applicants may find themselves in a situation where they fail the polygraph, either due to physiological reasons, anxiety, or other factors. Understanding how to handle this outcome is essential for safeguarding your clearance prospects. We represent individuals in polygraph and security clearance matters.
When is the Polygraph Exam Used?
Polygraph tests are typically used during the background investigation process for higher-level security clearances. They are discussed in Security Executive Agent Directive 2. In some polygraphs, the examiner asks a series of yes-or-no questions related to national security concerns, such as whether the applicant has committed espionage or had unauthorized contact with foreign nationals.
The test is meant to be one of many tools in determining a person’s reliability and trustworthiness. While polygraphs are not foolproof and can be influenced by a variety of factors — such as nervousness, medical conditions, or even the examiner’s approach — the results can have a significant impact on the outcome of a clearance investigation. A failed polygraph does not automatically result in disqualification, but it is an important red flag that must be addressed.
Failing a Polygraph Exam
If you fail a polygraph exam, it is important to remember that this does not necessarily mean the end of your security clearance process. The next step typically involves a follow-up interview with the agency conducting the investigation, where you may be asked to explain the results of the polygraph. During this interview, it is crucial to be honest, calm, and cooperative.
In some cases, polygraph results may be inconclusive or misinterpreted, and further clarification or re-testing might be necessary. If the failure is related to a specific issue, such as a misunderstanding or anxiety, providing evidence or context may help clear up any doubts. However, if there is a legitimate concern — such as involvement in illegal activities or a failure to disclose critical information during the background check — the results could jeopardize your eligibility for a security clearance.
If you are unable to pass the polygraph, you should take immediate steps to address the issue. First, consider requesting a second (or third) examination, especially if you believe that anxiety or other non-deceptive factors affected the results. You may also want to consult with a security clearance attorney with expertise in polygraph examinations who can help you understand the security clearance process.
If there are specific issues that led to the failure — such as a past criminal act or undisclosed financial problems — you must be prepared to address these concerns in a transparent and honest manner. Failure to do so could be interpreted as a lack of trustworthiness, which could ultimately harm your clearance prospects. In some cases it could lead to a Statement of Reasons proposing to deny a security clearance.
To avoid potential issues with a polygraph in future clearance applications, it is vital to maintain a high level of honesty and transparency throughout the process. Review your background information carefully and disclose any possible issues, even if they may seem minor. If you are particularly concerned about the polygraph or the questions you will be asked, consider preparing in advance by speaking with a security clearance lawyer who can advise you on how to handle the process.
Final Thoughts
A failed polygraph for a security clearance is a serious issue, but it does not necessarily spell the end of your clearance application. By understanding the polygraph process, being prepared to address any concerns in the aftermath, and seeking professional advice when necessary, you can increase your chances of successfully navigating this challenge.
The key to handling a polygraph failure is to remain honest, transparent, and cooperative throughout the process. With the right approach, you may still be able to resolve any issues and move forward in the security clearance process.
Contact Us
Our law firm represents and advises federal employees in various employment law matters. If you need legal assistance regarding a federal employment matter, please contact our office at (703) 668-0070 or at www.berrylegal.com to schedule a consultation.
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 March 3, there are 122 detached homes, 24 townhouses and 154 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 29 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.
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.
Question: What design trends have you been seeing in the residential market lately?
Answer: Every year our marketing department does a deep dive into home design trends that multiple local and national design experts say to look for each year. Some of these trends last just a year or two, others take hold for years. Often, these trends reintroduce styles from decades ago (e.g. wallpaper resurgence) with small tweaks.
You can click this link to browse the full 2025 Design Trends e-booklet from RLAH Real Estate. I’ve pulled out a few highlights and personal favorites below…
Colors of the Year
Color trends have recently shifted towards an organic, natural look and all three 2025 Color of the Year selections from Pantone, Benjamin Moore, and Behr reflect that trend.
Colors Of The Year 2025
Return of the Formal Living Room
After years of buyers seeing formal living rooms and saying “what am I supposed to do with this room” we are finally seeing preference shift away from fully open spaces to more use-specific rooms like a formal living room free of TV and full of comfortable, elegant furniture to spend time with friends and family. It’s a room that can have its own unique personality where homeowners can take some design risk.
4055 40th Street N. (Jessie Thiel, RAZR Group, Real Broker LLC)
This recurring Most and Least Expensive Home feature is sponsored by The Eli Residential Team. Their mission is to guide, educate, and advocate for their clients through real advice, hands-on support, and personalized service. This week’s post is written by Jean Ropp.
Here in Arlington, real estate is a spectator sport. Let’s take a look at some of the most and least expensive single-family homes sold last month (February 2025).
*Minimum home value of $200,000 set to exclude certain land sales, retirement condos, properties with expiring ground leases, etc.
If you have any questions regarding these listings, or would like to schedule a private showing, please feel free to contact The Eli Residential Team or reach out to Jean Ropp.
This recurring Open Houses feature is sponsored by The Eli Residential Team. Their mission is to guide, educate, and advocate for their clients through real advice, hands-on support, and personalized service. This week’s post is written by Jean Ropp.
Welcome to March Madness!
Hello warmer temperatures, great to see you! In early March every year — no matter the weather — the Arlington spring real estate market heats up.
Let’s take a look at some upcoming open houses, below.
Single Family Homes
16 S. Aberdeen Street, Arlington Forest, 22204
3 Beds/2 Baths — $899,000
Open Friday, 5-7 p.m., Saturday & Sunday, 1-3 p.m.
Presented by Elizabeth Lord, Compass | A steal in Arlington Forest, wont last long
841 N. Manchester Street, Dominion Hills, 22205
5 Beds/4.5 Baths — $1,949,950
Open Saturday & Sunday, 12-2 p.m.
Presented by Toll Brothers | Beautiful New Build Community — The Grove, about 60% sold and most delivering toward the end of 2025
Townhomes
2915-C S. Woodstock #3, Shirlington, 22206
2 Beds/2.5 Baths — $505,000
Open Saturday, 1-3 p.m.
Presented by Martha Floyd, Corcoran McEnearney | Incredible value in Arlington, hard to find a townhome for this price tag
4080 Cherry Hill Road, Cherrydale, 22207
3 Beds/2.5 Baths — $950,000
Open Sunday, 2-4 p.m.
Presented by Michelle Doherty, RLAH @Properties | Walk to the Cherrydale Farmers Market
801 N. Woodrow Street, Ballston, 22203
4 Beds/4.5 Baths — $1,415,000
Open Sunday, 1-4 p.m.
Presented by Michelle Sagatov, Washington Fine Properties | Over 2,700 sq. ft., just steps to Ballston, impressive
Condos
900 N. Stafford Street #1118, 22203
2 Beds/2 Baths — $559,900
Open Saturday & Sunday, 1-3 p.m.
Presented by The Battle Group, Shaw Battle and Matt Leighton, Real Broker LLC | Amazing value for a 2 bedroom unit under 600K above the Ballston Metro
2000 Clarendon #504, 22201
2 Beds/2 Baths — $849,900
Open Sunday, 12-2 p.m.
Presented by Eli Residential Group, Eli Tucker, RLAH @Properties | The newest condo building in all of Arlington with a view of the National Cathedral
1300 Crystal Drive #PH3S, 22202
4 Beds/3 Baths — $1,950,000 | Monthly Condo Fee — $2,299
Open Saturday, 1-3 p.m.
Presented by Kelly Glen, KW Metro Center | Talk about outstanding views!
Want to beat the crowds? Let’s set up a private tour with Jean Ropp of Eli Residential Group!
Let Eli and his team expertly guide you through the unique market dynamics in Arlington. Start by filling the form below. It will support ARLnow’s local news mission and you’ll get some perks in the process.
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 Taryn Druge, 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.
The Trump administration has a logistical problem. If the administration wants to fulfill its promises of mass deportation via legal means, it has to use the judicial machinery of the U.S. immigration system.
The New Motto of the Department of Justice: Slow Justice is No Justice!
Unfortunately, the immigration courts are backlogged to the moon – with 3.6 million cases pending at the end of FY2024, there is no way that the present machinery can keep up with current demand, never mind accelerate the pace of adjudications. There are about 700 immigration judges in the United States.
If they each handle two trials per day, every workday of the year, that’s about 280,000 cases per year — it would take thirteen years to clear the backlog, assuming no new cases came into the system. And more cases are coming into the system — a lot more. Although numbers vary, Q3 of FY2024 saw 100,000 new cases filed in a single month.
So, what is the administration going to do? We know of two steps so far — one is a fact, and one is a well-sourced rumor.
The Fact: Half of the Judges on the Board of Immigration Appeals Have Been Fired
There is just one appeals court for the entire U.S. immigration system — the Board of Immigration Appeals, in Falls Church, Virginia. Each and every decision made by all seven hundred immigration judges is appealable to the Board. That means that the Board has a heavy workload, and getting a decision on appeal often takes years.
Hiring more appellate judges — or more staff attorneys, who can assist with research and drafting — would be one way to speed up the Board’s work. (The Trump administration did that, in its first iteration, as did the Biden administration.) That is not what the new Trump administration has done. Instead, the new administration has fired about half of the judges on the Board of Immigration Appeals.
Our view is that this action is both political — every judge fired was appointed by former President Biden — and practical. The Trump administration does not intend to fix the problem of backlogs at the Board of Immigration Appeals. Instead, it intends both to abolish the Board and to abolish the lower immigration courts, by converting them into Special Inquiry Officers, from whose decisions no appeal will lie.
The Rumor: The Immigration Courts Will Revert to Proceedings Before Special Inquiry Officers
This rumor comes from Jason Dzubow, Esq., who published it in his excellent blog, The Asylumist. Dzubow is, in my view, the best attorney specializing in asylum law in Washington, and a real expert on U.S. immigration law — so it’s a very-well sourced rumor, but it is still unconfirmed by outside sources.
According to Dzubow’s source, the Trump administration intends to convert the existing immigration judges (and perhaps the remaining Board of Immigration Appeals judges) into Special Inquiry Officers. This would be a real throwback to procedure last seen before 1973, when Special Inquiry Officers were converted into Immigration Judges by regulation.
Dzubow’s interpretation, we think, is that by converting the immigration courts into special inquiry proceedings, the administration would be able to (1) decrease the due process protections available to respondents, and (2) tap a ready pool of officials already working at the Department of Homeland Security — existing immigration judges, ICE prosecutors, and USCIS adjudicators. (ICE prosecutors would no longer be needed in the streamlined system, and so converting them into Special Inquiry Officers would be a natural move.)
It is unclear how the new proceedings would be conducted, how the existing body of law would be applied to them, and what substantive changes this would bring for our clients. It would be an earthquake in the immigration court system, and the consequences are unpredictable.
In our view, this is still a rumor, but a pretty plausible one from a sensible and well-informed source. When we have new information, we will pass it on to our readers!
As always, we are grateful for your questions and comments, and will do our best to respond.
The arts have long been a driving force behind vibrant and thriving commercial corridors. From captivating galleries and dynamic performances to inspiring public art, these creative experiences draw crowds that fill cafés, boutiques and restaurants with energy and life.
Now, Arlington Arts and the Arlington Commission for the Arts are launching an exciting new Creative Placemaking Grant, offering funding for two standout arts and culture projects designed to ignite creativity and attract people to Arlington’s commercial districts.
Two (2) $50,000 grants will be awarded to foster meaningful interactions among residents, workers and visitors.
By creating or activating spaces for shared arts and cultural experiences, these projects will deepen community connections, instill a sense of belonging and pride in Arlington, and strengthen the local arts ecosystem. They should promote cross-cultural engagement, cultivate an inclusive environment for all, and prioritize youth well-being.
Successful grant proposals may include the following:
Temporary public art installation project
Arts and cultural programming, events or festivals in outdoor spaces
Adaptive reuse of vacant commercial space for the arts-based uses
The grant’s impact should extend beyond the arts, fueling Arlington County’s economic vitality by drawing visitors, boosting foot traffic and driving sales for local businesses. It will also generate direct investments in the creative economy, supporting local artists and arts-based organizations.
To amplify its reach, the program encourages applicants to forge dynamic partnerships with individual artists, arts organizations, nonprofits, higher education institutions, Arlington’s Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) and Neighborhood Partnership Organizations.
About the Arlington Arts Grants Program
The Arlington Commission for the Arts administers the grants program for Arlington County artists as well as arts and cultural organizations. The Arlington County Policy for the Support of Arts Organizations and Artists (as approved by the Arlington County Board in 1990) describes eligibility for the program, application procedures and criteria for evaluation.
The Arlington Arts Grants Program is one of the important ways Arlington addresses investment in our arts infrastructure. Those applying for funding should consider the ways in which their work helps to further the vision and values of Enriching Lives: Arlington Arts and Cultural Strategy.
To create a climate within the County that is conducive to the growth and development of Arlington’s artists and arts organizations through public and private support.
To foster the development of excellence and diversity in the arts, ensuring that a varied program of cultural activities is available to satisfy the interests of Arlington’s citizens.
To guarantee to all Arlington artists and arts organizations an open and fair policy which assures equal access to County arts resources.
To encourage development of public/private partnerships in support of the arts.
Arlington Cultural Affairs, a division of the Arlington County Government’s Arlington Economic Development (AED), department. Our mission is to create, support and promote the arts, connecting artists and community to reflect the diversity of Arlington. We do this by providing material support to artists and arts organizations in the form of grants, facilities and theater technology; integrating award-winning public art into our built environment; and presenting high quality performing, literary, visual and new media programs across the County.
Two (2) $50,000 grants will be awarded. Application closes on March 21. For detailed information about the grant, the guidelines and how to apply, visit the Arlington Arts grants webpage.
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 February 24, there are 111 detached homes, 23 townhouses and 139 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 18 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.
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.
In two weeks, on Tuesday, March 11 from 5:30-7:30 p.m., ARLnow is hosting a public, educational panel discussion that I’ll be moderating focused on new construction (process, financing, challenges, options, etc) and remodeling/adding-on to an existing home.
The panel will be highly educational and informative for anybody who is curious about the topics, but especially for anybody who is struggling with the decision many local homeowners face trying to decide whether to improve and expand their current home or move to a larger existing or new home.
This is a 100% educational event — you will not be marketed to or contacted afterwards unless you request follow-up.
The panelists are some of the top local professionals in the business:
Matt Rzepkowski, President/Owner of MR Custom Homes (new construction expert)
Chad Hackmann, Regional Partner/Owner Alair Homes Arlington (remodeling/expansion expert)
Tripp DeFalco, President/Owner of DeFalco Home Design (architect)
Brad Pace, Wealth Management Mortgage Banker and Construction Builder Specialist with US Bank (lending expert)
The event will be hosted at the Arlington Central Library Auditorium, is free, and will include a panel discussion, moderated by me, followed by an audience Q&A session, and a chance to talk to the panelists individually afterwards or schedule a follow-up meeting.
Feel free to share the invitation with anybody you think might find it useful. If you have questions or are interested in the discussion, but unable to attend, feel free to email me at [email protected].
“Build or Renovate?” event flyer
If you’d like to discuss buying, selling, investing, or renting, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at [email protected].
Upcoming (pre-market) ERG Listings, Details and Additional Listings Available by Request
Williamsburg – 6 BR/6.5 BA/6,000 sq. ft. – Detached Single Family (2025) – 6580 Williamsburg Boulevard, Arlington VA, 22213
Courthouse – 1 BR+den/1.5 BA/850 sq. ft. – Condo (2007) – 2220 N. Fairfax Drive #308, Arlington VA, 22201
Cherrydale – 2 BR/2 BA/1,150 sq. ft. – Condo (2013) – 2101 N. Monroe Street, Arlington VA, 22207
Stonegate/Alexandria West – 4 BR/3.5 BA/2,800 sq. ft. – Townhouse (built in 1999) – Lambert Street, Alexandria VA ,22311
Arlington Ridge/Aurora Hills – 3 BR/2.5 BA/2,450 sq. ft. – Detached Single Family (1961) – S. Grove Street, Arlington VA, 22202
Island Creek/Kingstowne – 3 BR/3.5 BA/2,185 sq. ft. – Townhouse (built in 2017) – Parrish Glebe Road, Alexandria VA, 22315
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.
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.
This recurring real estate feature is sponsored by The Eli Residential Team. Their mission is to guide, educate, and advocate for their clients through real advice, hands-on support, and personalized service. This newest post is written by Carolanne Korolowicz.
Whether you are team blue, orange or silver line, every avid metro rider knows the importance of residing by a station.
Those who prefer living a stone’s throw away from The District don’t want to miss out on these condos perfect for rolling out of bed and onto your morning commute.
Turnberry Tower has become a Rosslyn landmark since it was erected in 2009. The amenity package is one to brag about — private theatre, fitness center, valet parking and an indoor heated pool, to name a few.
If a more modest living quarters is your style, this Georgetown Vista 2-bedroom is perfect for the weekday commuter. Views from the private balcony overlook towards the Potomac.
A true urban oasis, this one-bedroom Wooster and Mercer Lofts condo features Brazillian Cherry floors, reclaimed exposed brick and high-end appliances. Anyone who has lived in the metro-corridor knows it is difficult to snag an assigned parking spot. This property comes with two spots — a true rarity!
You can literally live like Eloise! The Waterview’s first twelve floors are occupied and operated by The Meridien Hotel. The actual hotel amenities (yes, residents have access) are one-of-a-kind, along with the building’s iconic views.
Built in 2021, this property is closest to “new” Arlington has to offer for condominiums. With no new developments planned for the next two to three years, this is truly a rare opportunity!
In 1987, The Belvedere was the first of its kind; defining resort-style living in Rosslyn. This 1,600+ square-foot condo includes an expansive enclosed balcony — perfect for cold weather or watching the fireworks in July.
This recurring Open Houses feature is sponsored by The Eli Residential Team. Their mission is to guide, educate, and advocate for their clients through real advice, hands-on support, and personalized service. This week’s post is written by Carolanne Korolowicz.
Stay out of the cold this weekend at these must-see Arlington open houses. From Bellevue Forest to Aurora Hills, there is no shortage of lovely (and warm) properties to view.
Let’s take a look at some upcoming open houses, below.
Let The Eli Residential Team expertly guide you through the unique market dynamics in Arlington. Start by filling the form below. It will support ARLnow’s local news mission and you’ll get some perks in the process.
