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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.

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!

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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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!

Just Reduced Properties in Arlington: December 11, 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 9, there are 103 detached homes, 24 townhouses and 135 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 18 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:

4928 18th 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: Winter damage covered by homeowner’s insurance

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.

Question: If somebody slips and gets hurt on the icy sidewalk outside of my home, will my homeowner’s insurance cover medical bills?

Answer: Winter introduced a slew of risks for homeowners, many of which can be managed through proper insurance coverage and planning (don’t forget to winterize your exterior plumbing!). I talked to my go-to insurance contact, Seth Kutner of ACO Insurance ([email protected]) about common winter claims and how they are handled by homeowners insurance.

Homeowners insurance can cover most winter-related claims if the policy is set up properly. Considering the high cost of the average insurance claim, it’s important to know what is and isn’t covered.

Trip & Fall Lawsuits

Make sure to properly clear your sidewalk area of snow and ice because you may be liable for someone tripping and falling on the sidewalk outside of your house in hazardous conditions. The liability coverage on your homeowners insurance will cover this and Seth recommends that everyone have a minimum of $500,000 in liability coverage.

Burst Pipes Due to Freezing

During the winter months, freezing pipes are a common issue that can lead to major problems. When the temperature drops, water inside your pipes can freeze, causing the pipes to expand and potentially burst. This can lead to significant water damage, expensive repairs, and the inconvenience of being without running water. To prevent freezing pipes, make sure to insulate any exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas.

If you do experience freezing pipes, it is important to call a plumber right away to help clear the pipe. In most cases, damage caused by a burst pipe from freezing is covered by insurance, a common exception is to a vacant home with the heat off.

Wind Damage

Whether wind directly damages your home or causes a tree to fall on your home, most policies cover the resulting damage. The deductible that you pay for this type of claim may be different than your normal deductible. Depending on your policy, this could be 2-5 times larger than your normal deductible. Some insurance companies have raised these deductibles and unless you have read your declaration pages (not common), you may not be aware of the changes.

Water Backup

After snow melts, it can create a large amount of water around the house. If you have a sump-pump, make sure that your insurance policy covers “Water/Sewer Backup” or the damage caused if your sump pump fails might not be covered. This is one of the most common home insurance gaps that catches homeowners off-guard with expensive uncovered repairs.

Chimney Inspections

As the weather gets cold, many homeowners will be firing up their chimney (literally). Regular chimney inspections are essential. Over time, chimneys accumulate debris, soot, and creosote, which are not only fire hazards but can also obstruct proper airflow, leading to dangerous carbon monoxide indoors.

Regular inspections and chimney cleaning will help minimize risk, so you don’t find yourself with a fire-related insurance claim (covered) or breathing hazardous carbon monoxide.

I find that homeowners insurance is often an afterthought for many homeowners. It’s a box they check when buying a home and they choose the path of least resistance to get a policy. It’s this approach that can leave you exposed and surprised by costly uncovered insurance events.

Having a real person review and design a policy for you based on where you live, what you own, and the type of home you’re in can be extraordinarily valuable. If you need a great resource for this, reach out to Seth at [email protected].

Shoveling Snow (credit: Adobe Stock)

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. 

Neighborhood Spotlight: Corcoran welcomes first affiliate in the Greater Washington, DC metropolitan area

By Sponsor

Neighborhood Spotlight is a bi-weekly column exploring Arlington County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Corcoran | McEnearney.

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news with you — McEnearney Associates | Middleburg Real Estate | Atoka Properties has joined forces with Corcoran, one of the most esteemed names in real estate. We are now Corcoran McEnearney!

What does this mean for you? It’s simple: the same trusted service and local expertise you’ve always relied on, now paired with the global reach, cutting-edge resources, and industry-leading innovation that Corcoran brings us.

This partnership enhances our ability to serve you better, whether you’re buying, selling, or investing. With Corcoran’s renowned network and our unwavering commitment to your success, we’re confident this marks a new chapter of possibilities for your real estate journey.

If you have any questions about this exciting change or how it benefits you, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We look forward to continuing to provide you with exceptional service as Corcoran McEnearney.

Corcoran McEnearney

More Than 40 Years of Exceptional Service

The first McEnearney Associates office opened in 1980 with John McEnearney at the helm, whose personal commitment to offer best-in-class service with the industry’s best agents set the foundation for the company. More than 40 years later, the McEnearney name has continued to uphold this foundation while steadily growing to include more than 420 agents and 40 support staff across 13 offices, located throughout Washington, D.C., Virginia, Maryland, and West Virginia.

Today, Maureen McEnearney Dunn, daughter of John McEnearney, is the President of Corcoran McEnearney, having been a part of the company since its inception and holding her current position since 2007. Throughout her tenure, Dunn has brought visionary leadership to grow the firm sevenfold, transforming its operations and expanding its market presence significantly.

Under her leadership, the firm has recruited top talent and fostered success amongst the agents, while focusing on marketing, education, training, relocation, and technology to keep the company ahead of the curve. Deeply committed to industry and community involvement, she has served on the Northern Virginia Association of REALTORS® Ethics and Professional Standards Committees and has led hundreds of key fundraising initiatives including the Capital Area Food Bank, Arlington Food Assistance Center, At Home in Alexandria, SCAN, Act for Alexandria, Share of McLean, and more.

“The authentic culture and dedication to excellence with the Corcoran® brand has always aligned seamlessly with the core values of McEnearney,” said Dunn. “Corcoran’s robust marketing strategies and expansive network can help equip our agents to deliver even greater care and support to both new and loyal clients. We are energized by the immense growth potential this partnership brings, reinforcing our commitment to delivering the exceptional service that has defined our company for 45 years.”

Depth of Industry Leadership

As a strategic growth merger, McEnearney Associates joined forces with Middleburg Real Estate/Atoka Properties in June 2023. Having led successful careers as agents, Peter Pejacsevich and Scott Buzzelli founded Atoka Properties and acquired Middleburg Real Estate in 2008. Initially drawn to Middleburg, Virginia, for its strong heritage and deep history, the team channeled their personal interest and successful business into establishing a premier brokerage serving Virginia and West Virginia’s countryside and beyond.

Now operating as Principal & Chief Operating Officer of Corcoran McEnearney, Pejacsevich brings his strong business acumen and global perspective to continue driving the company’s presence and growth throughout the greater Washington, D.C. metro region. His extensive industry experience in luxury sales and track record of success provide him with a profound understanding of every level within the business. This deep-rooted expertise allows him to drive innovation and enhance overall operational efficiency, ultimately contributing to the firm’s continued long-term success.

“This partnership has been a natural fit from the beginning,” said Pejacsevich. “The Corcoran® brand’s genuine spirit resonated with us – values of service, integrity, market expertise, and neighborhood fluency, affirming that together we could achieve something even more impactful in our market. While maintaining independence, we now gain access to cutting-edge technology, refined marketing strategies, an expanded network, and enhanced resources.”

Joining Dunn and Pejacsevich on Corcoran McEnearney’s executive leadership team is David Howell, Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer. Howell is a recognized industry leader who, among other distinctions, is a member of the Hall of Fame for both Virginia REALTORS® and the Northern Virginia Association of REALTORS®, where he also formerly served as President.

The Corcoran McEnearney executive team also includes Scott Buzzelli, Chief Strategy Officer; Jeanne Choi, Chief Marketing Officer; Kristen Doczkat, Chief Financial Officer, and a strategic growth team. Complementing this executive team, Corcoran McEnearney is further supported by five exceptional Managing Brokers, skilled corporate department leads, and dedicated office managers.

“We are thrilled to welcome Corcoran McEnearney, an impressive and well-respected company with a well-earned reputation for excellence and integrity,” said Stephanie Anton, President of Corcoran Affiliates. “By joining forces, our network is gaining invaluable expertise and presence in a major world market, while providing the tools and resources to further strengthen Corcoran McEnearney’s high standards in client service and agent support.”

Just Listed in Arlington: December 6, 2024

By Sponsor

Just Listed highlights Arlington properties that just came on the market. This biweekly feature is written and sponsored by Coral Gundlach Homes.

Hello Arlington!

Coral Gundlach here with Coral Gundlach Homes in Arlington. I’ve been an Arlington homeowner since 2001 and a Realtor since 2004. I love this real estate market, even though it has its challenges.

We are officially in the holiday season, and I am back after taking the Thanksgiving week off. I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and is enjoying our chilly December weather.

Typically this is the slowest time for buying and selling houses. People are busy with holiday parties and travel, and often put home buying off until the new year. For the week ending of December 1st and Thanksgiving week, it should come as no surprise that showings in Arlington were down to 456 compared to 636 the week prior. Purchase contracts were down to 22 compared to 44 for the week prior. 

Here are the numbers as of the time of writing: Friday, December 6 at 1 p.m.

Also, this week we will feature the highest and lowest condos listed. 

  • All active listings in Arlington: 258, down from 280 3 weeks ago.
  • New Listings in the past week: 39, down from 53 two weeks ago
  • Under Contract/Pending in last week: 23, down from 32 three weeks ago
  • Median Days on Market for Active Under Contract: 40, up from 18 three weeks ago
  • Median Days on Market for Pending: 17, up from 15 three weeks ago
  • All active detached listings: 96, up from 94 three weeks ago
  • New active detached listings: 16, up from from 12 three weeks ago
  • All active townhouses, fee simple: 19, down from 29 three weeks ago
  • All active condos/co-ops: 141, down from 155 three weeks ago
  • New active condos/co-ops: 24, down from 29 three weeks ago

Thirty-six total properties closed in the last week, down from 38 two weeks ago. The median CDOM was 19, down from 20 three weeks ago, and the median original list price to sales price ratio was 98.7% and the average current list price to sales price ratio was 100%, 

The highest priced new condo is a unique offering at Liberty Center condos in Ballston. This rare unit spans 2,970 square feet and has monthly fees of $2341/month. It has 3 parking spaces too. It is offered at $2,250,000.

The lowest priced newly listed condo is a 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 966 square foot condo in 22204’s Stratton House building. Condo fees are $1103.27 a month and include all utilities. It is listed for $255,000.

Contact Coral Gundlach Homes today at (703) 200-3631 or email [email protected] to talk more about buying or selling Arlington real estate.

This week’s Just Listed feature:

2235 North Nottingham Street, Arlington VA, 22205 — $1,800,000

2235 North Nottingham Street

This week, I’m excited to feature my wonderful private exclusive listing in the charming Parkhurst neighborhood of Arlington! 2235 North Nottingham Street is a 5 bedroom, 4.5 bath home offered at $1,800,000.

Just a stone’s throw to Overlee Pool, conveniently close to Westover shops and dining, and a little over a mile to the East Falls Church Metro, this home truly has the perfect location. Built in 2006, this lovely craftsman features an attached two-car garage and a stunning 8,900 square foot lot with over 4,200 square feet of beautifully finished living space over three levels. It’s situated in the popular Tuckahoe/Swanson/Yorktown school pyramid as well. You’ll love the welcoming foyer, the spacious 9-foot ceilings, and the comfortable and sensible. The open kitchen flows into the family room, complete with built-ins and a breakfast area that accommodates six, all overlooking a fantastic Trex deck and a vast, flat backyard.

The basement has a finished rec room with built-ins and a fireplace, 5th bedroom full bath and storage. Upper level has 4 generous bedrooms including a primary suite with a spacious bath including soaking tub, dual sinks, separate shower and private water closet. Two additional bathrooms and a full sized laundry room make this a fantastic upper level! With quality updates like a newer HVAC system and modern kitchen appliances, hardwood flooring on the main level and a brand new garage door opener, you can enjoy the comforts of a new home at a more accessible price than new construction.

Showing by appointment only during December. Call me for a private tour. 

Want to see more Just Listed properties? Interested in an Open House this weekend? We’re happy to show them to you privately! Contact Coral Gundlach Homes today.

Please note: While Coral Gundlach Homes provides this information for the community, they may not be the listing agents of these homes. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Statutes of Liberty: TPS-Lebanon is here, apply before January 20, 2025!

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.

In October, we explained, in these pages, that TPS-Lebanon had been announced but that the application window had not yet opened yet. Great news!

The filing window is now open. In this brief advertorial, we want to describe the application process and offer our general view about the wisdom of applying early.

On October 17, the Department of Homeland Security announced that Lebanon was  designated for Temporary Protected Status for 18 months. This supplements — and, for most, will supersede — the previous grant of Deferred Enforced Departure for Lebanon. The application window opened on November 27, 2024 — just a week ago — and runs through May 27, 2026.

May 27, 2026 is more than a year away. January 20, 2025 — Inauguration Day — is substantially closer. Temporary Protected Status is a benefit granted by the Secretary of Homeland Security as a matter of discretionary authority delegated by Congress under the Homeland Security Act of 2002.

President Trump will appoint a new Secretary of Homeland Security — currently slated to be Gov. Kristi Noem — and it’s fair to assume that President Trump’s new Secretary of Homeland Security will have a different attitude towards TPS than President Biden’s Secretary of Homeland Security, Alejandro Mayorkas. The Trump Administration may move to revoke the grant of TPS for Lebanon.

Why is it fair to assume this? Because the Trump Administration, in its first iteration, moved to revoke TPS for El Salvador, Nicaragua, Sudan, Honduras, Haiti, and Nepal. These maneuvers were blocked by lengthy (and complex) litigation. A second round of attempts to revoke TPS is likely.

President-Elect Trump has said so, directly, that he intends to revoke TPS-Haiti; when asked if he planned to revoke TPS for Haitians in the United States, he replied, “Absolutely. I’d revoke it, and I’d bring them back to their country.”

We do not know whether President-Elect Trump will attempt to revoke TPS-Lebanon, but we believe that prospective applicants will be in a better position if they apply before he has a chance to do so.

The famous cedars of Lebanon.

So, if you qualify for TPS-Lebanon, we recommend that you apply before President Trump takes office. Here’s how:

  • Start gathering your documents. Your lawyer will want to see your Lebanese passport or your birth certificate, plus evidence that you have been physically present in the United States on or about October 16, 2024. Evidence of physical presence includes:
    • Your 2024 tax returns (file them next year!)
    • Employment records, if you have them
    • Rent receipts
    • School records for you or your children
    • Medical records concerning treatment for you or your children
    • Religious records describing your attendance at a place of worship
  • Put money aside. You can expect USCIS to charge up to $550 for your initial application.
  • Apply! You can apply online directly here, either on your own or (as we recommend) with the assistance of counsel.

You can call us at 888-389-8655, or make an appointment via Calendly, here. But we know that, with tens of thousands of Lebanese nationals in Northern Virginia, handling all of these cases is going to be a team effort. In that spirit, here are two other trustworthy local partners for Lebanese nationals who need help applying for TPS.

Just Neighbors

Just Neighbors has a wonderful program that focuses on immigrants who make 200% or less than the amount prescribed by the Federal Poverty Guidelines. For information on how to get help from them, see here.

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington — Hogar Immigrant Services

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington is an excellent non-profit legal services center. They can handle your TPS application for a modest fee, and they’re wonderful people.

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

Arts Focus: Shop Arlington artists for unique holiday gifts!

By Sponsor
1/5

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

Looking for one-of-a-kind gifts this holiday season?

The studio artists of Arlington’s LAC Studios will hold their Annual Holiday Fine Crafts Show and Sale on Saturday, December 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the LAC Studios, 5722 Langston Boulevard in Arlington.

Shop local this holiday season and let Arlington’s extraordinary community of artists help you find that unique gift you’ve been looking for. The annual show and sale features ceramics, pottery and hand-pulled prints for sale by member-artists of LAC Studios (formerly Lee Arts Center), a program of the Arlington Cultural Affairs Division.

Participating artists include Amit Jalan, Cinda Berry, Claudia Vess, Cora Olson, Dana Lehrer Danze, Emily Shepardson, Gayle Weiss, J. S. Herbert, Julie Buyon, Laura J Fall, Nancy Quirolo, Susan Elliot, Susanne Seefeldt and other talented resident artists.

This is just one of the many opportunities to engage with Arlington’s arts and culture community this winter. For an array of activities across the visual and performing arts, please visit the Winter Arts Highlights page.

LAC Studios is a program of 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.

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.

For information on the Annual LAC Show and Sale, call LAC Studios at 703-228-0560 or visit arlingtonarts.org.

Just Reduced Properties in Arlington: December 4, 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 2, there are 110 detached homes, 27 townhouses and 139 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 10 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:

5920 35th 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.

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