This regularly scheduled sponsored Q&A column is written by Eli Tucker, Arlington-based Realtor and Arlington resident. Please submit your questions to him via email for response in future columns. Video summaries of some articles can be found on YouTube on the Eli Residential channel. Enjoy!
I hope everybody had a great Memorial Day Weekend!
A few weeks ago the Eli Residential Group got together to explore Rosslyn’s new food hall and event space, Upside on Moore (and Salt cocktail bar). It’s a communal indoor/outdoor space in the heart of Rosslyn with nine different food and drink vendors to choose from and a variety of social and working spaces to use; somewhat similar to the newly opened Water Park in Crystal City/National Landing that we visited last year.
Each of us picked a vendor/restaurant we wanted to try, and we ordered food and drinks from each place over the course of the afternoon. We enjoyed everything we ordered and were pleasantly surprised to find a fun tiki bar on the large outdoor terrace that we added to our tour. Check out our photos and write-ups for each place we visited below!
I selected the Bar at Upside for both the aesthetic and the beverages! The vibe inside is modern and inviting with plenty of seating at the bar, perfect for a quick cocktail, happy hour or a bite. I got the Rosslyn Ricky (super refreshing, I highly recommend on a summer day!)
We also ventured out to the outdoor terrace and Elli’s Island Tiki Bar (no relation to Eli!) Here we indulged in some fun tropical drinks and sat at the outdoor sofas. The tiki bar environment felt like a mini vacation away from reality! Weather permitting, this is an excellent spot for drinks with friends or coworkers or even date night.
Fun fact: Sommelier and mixologist Elli Benchimol, owner of Michelin-recognized Apéro in Georgetown curated the beverage menu!
Let’s talk about Arlington’s hidden gems with McEnearney Associate, Bob Adamson!
Living in Arlington, I’ve found some awesome spots that make this place feel like home. Right across the Potomac River from D.C., Arlington mixes small-town charm with the buzz of city life. Let me share a few of my favorite local gems that make Arlington special.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite after some shopping or hanging out with friends for dinner,Taqueria Poblano is always a great choice. Located in Harrison Shopping Center, this local favorite offers a cozy atmosphere that makes every visit feel like a mini fiesta. Their menu is packed with delicious options, but the tacos are the real showstoppers. The Baja fish tacos are a crowd favorite, always served fresh and bursting with flavor. Pair them with one of their famous margaritas, perfectly mixed to balance tangy and sweet, and you’ve got yourself a winning combo. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite after shopping or enjoying a leisurely meal with friends, Taqueria Poblano at Harrison Shopping Center never disappoints. It’s a true Arlington gem that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico right to your table.
Calling all barbecue aficionados in Arlington! If you’re looking for some seriously mouthwatering smoked meats,Sloppy Mama’s BBQ is your ultimate destination. Located on Langston Boulevard, this cozy spot boasts a reputation for serving up the juiciest, most flavorful barbecue around. While Sloppy Mama’s BBQ is known for its mouthwatering barbecue dishes, they’ve also mastered the art of crafting delicious burgers. Each bite of their burgers is a flavor explosion, blending the juiciness of perfectly cooked beef with their signature barbecue sauces and toppings. Whether you’re a barbecue aficionado or just looking for a darn good burger, Sloppy Mama’s is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you dreaming of your next visit.
Tacos Al Carbon became a local legend, not only for its authentic Mexican cuisine but also for its award-winning margaritas.. This beloved eatery has not only perfected the art of crafting mouthwatering tacos but has also garnered a stellar reputation for its margaritas, which have been voted the best in the area for six consecutive years. With its vibrant decor, friendly staff, and upbeat atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot for everything from casual lunches to lively dinners with friends. The outdoor seating area is particularly popular, offering a great place to enjoy a meal and a drink on a sunny day.
Trade Roots is a beloved community spot known for its cozy atmosphere, excellent coffee, and delectable pastries. This charming café offers a perfect blend of a warm, inviting environment and a commitment to quality that keeps patrons coming back for more.
The coffee is a standout, with each cup brewed to perfection. Whether you prefer a robust espresso, a smooth latte, or a classic cup of drip coffee, the baristas ensure every drink meets the highest standards.
Complementing the coffee is an array of freshly baked pastries that are as delicious as they are varied. From flaky croissants and buttery scones to rich muffins and delightful cookies, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
Trade Roots also emphasizes community and sustainability. The café sources locally when possible, supporting other small businesses and contributing to the local economy.
From tranquil nature escapes to bustling culinary hubs and cultural havens, Arlington is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a resident seeking new adventures or a visitor eager to delve into the heart of this dynamic community, I hope this inspires you to discover your own hidden gems.
Connect with a neighborhood expert (me) to learn more about Arlington and other surrounding areas!
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 Austen Soare, 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.
If you ask Black’s Law Dictionary for the definition of trial, you’ll find the dry, legal definition: a judicial examination of the issues between the contending parties. But, for lawyers and clients alike, a trial is also something much more like the definition in ordinary English – a time of testing, a time of stress, a time of temptation, and a time of loneliness.
Preparing for trial requires both intellectual labor and psychological preparation. A lawyer has to master the facts: he has to know how his clients respond both to direct examination and to likely avenues of cross-examination; he has to know his exhibits; he has to know the opposing advocate with whom he must contend and the judge whom he must persuade. But, after the briefs are written, the exhibits are submitted, and the pretrial paper-shuffling is complete, the lawyer still has to look squarely at the summons and prepare himself.
Different lawyers have different rituals. A memorable law professor of ours likes to read the Rules of Evidence the night before trial, while sipping a single glass of red wine. (As advisable as this is on gustatory grounds, the reading material is not especially useful before immigration trials, because, in immigration court, the Federal Rules of Evidence do not apply.) When one of us worked as a legal aid attorney, he would hop in his car the night before trial and work as a Lyft driver to shake off the nerves. One of us always shines and brushes his shoes.
Anyone else play NBA Jam in their youth? Anyone? Bueller?
Trial itself is a blur; that’s why, when we can, we send two attorneys to trial, so one can run the court, and the other can take notes, reflect, and consult with the other during breaks. Immigration court is slow to move, but, once trial begins, it can be a frenetic place – with just two hours set aside for most trials, judges and attorneys alike are keen to get the facts in the record efficiently.
Today, we go on trial at 1 PM. We’ll do our level best for our client. And so, today, we won’t be able to reply as timely as we’d like to comments and questions. But when we return from court, we will do our best to respond.
On April 23, 2024, Sydney Hanley received a phone call from her hometown of Arlington that interrupted breakfast at her sister’s Boston apartment. Little did she know that this call marked the end of her long job search. Five years earlier, her journey began with one suggestive question: “Why not try a coding class?”
She tried that and much, much more.
The Arlington Talent Program (ATP)
The Arlington Talent Program was established to address a crucial issue: the reluctance of employers to hire inexperienced candidates for high-demand tech jobs. Partnering with engineering firm Exelaration, Arlington Economic Development created a program to connect tech-savvy residents with paid trainee positions to build real software. This hands-on experience is essential for launching IT careers.
Now in its fourth semester, the ATP has trained and employed 25 residents. “We’ve enrolled an Uber driver, a grocery stock worker, a flight attendant and a veteran, just to name a few,” says Exelaration CEO Steve Cooper. “Clients want employees with real job experience, and Arlington is listening.”
Cybersecurity Focus
This semester, ATP is focusing on cybersecurity. “Arlington businesses need to secure their data, and not all have the infrastructure or knowledge,” says Cooper. The program will offer free cybersecurity checkups to Arlington and Alexandria businesses through July, providing graduates with valuable experience.
Sydney’s Journey
Sydney Hanley’s story illustrates the program’s impact. In 2019, she began her freshman year at the University of San Francisco without a tech background. Following her mom’s advice, she took a computer science class and excelled, becoming a teaching assistant the next semester. However, her path was not smooth. The pandemic disrupted her studies, and her job offer was rescinded just before graduation.
Back in her hometown of Arlington and unemployed, Sydney applied for numerous jobs with little success. Last fall, she discovered an ATP job opening through an ARLnow article and was accepted into the spring 2024 semester. After completing the program, she interviewed for a position at a small education technology company.
“The tech interview matched one of our Exelaration projects almost exactly,” she recalls. Her experience from ATP prepared her well, and she received a job offer six days later.
“I started May 6!” Sydney excitedly shared with the ATP team recently, crediting the program for providing the crucial job experience she needed. “The Arlington Talent Program adds that final critical ingredient — real job experience — to someone who already has everything else,” says Cooper.
Get Involved
Businesses interested in a free cybersecurity checkup can email [email protected]. Services are provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
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 May 20, there are 140 detached homes, 28 townhouses and 134 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 25 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 Q&A column is written by Eli Tucker, Arlington-based Realtor and Arlington resident. Please submit your questions to him via email for response in future columns. Video summaries of some articles can be found on YouTube on the Eli Residential channel. Enjoy!
Question: My spouse and I are going through a divorce and we have a mortgage with great interest rate. Do we have any options that would allow one of us to be removed from the mortgage without refinancing into a higher rate?
Answer: Thanks to Paul Nagel of Main Street Home Loans for his insights in drafting this article. You can contact him at [email protected] or (703) 201-5147 for additional follow-up or any of your mortgage needs.
Going through a divorce is tough enough without having to deal with the headache of dealing with your mortgage. With over 70% of homeowners currently holding mortgages with interest rates much lower than today’s rates (source: New York Times), divorcing couples often face a difficult decision dealing with an existing mortgage.
Problem: To Refinance or Not
The common dilemma divorcing couples face these days is removing one partner from an existing mortgage without taking a huge financial hit brought on by refinancing (the most common way of removing somebody from a mortgage) into a much higher interest rate.
By not removing the departing spouse from the mortgage, it hampers the departing spouses’ ability to buy another home and exposes the departing spouse to risk of non-payment by the spouse who remains in the home.
(Potential) Solution: Specific Language in the Divorce Decree
The divorce decree can be a lifesaver here allowing the spouse staying in the home to keep the low interest rate and the one moving out isn’t financially tied to the house. Both parties need to agree and sign off that:
Refinancing is not required
The vacating spouse out isn’t responsible for the mortgage, taxes, insurance, or HOA fees
Both names stay on the mortgage, but only one spouse is responsible for making the payments
Other Considerations
Removal of Mortgage from Departing Spouses Credit: Often, the vacating spouse can contact the mortgage company to get the mortgage taken off their credit report. It’s not guaranteed, but many mortgage servicers will do this with a court-recognized divorce decree, protecting the departing spouse’s credit if payments aren’t made.
Separate Bank Accounts: After the divorce, close all joint bank accounts. The mortgage should be paid from an account that’s only in the name of the spouse responsible for the payments.
Legal Enforcement: The agreement must be signed by both parties and recognized by a court of law in the divorcing couple’s state
Documentation: When applying for a new home loan post-divorce, lenders will want to see all pages of the divorce decree and separation agreements. Be ready to provide these documents.
Consult a Tax Professional: Don’t forget to talk to a tax professional to understand any tax implications/benefits of keeping or selling the property during or after the divorce
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.
I love Burgundy. And this one checks all the boxes and more. It’s “Extremely Well-Made” and “Super Affordable.” Rarely, when talking about Burgundy, are these two phrases used in the same sentence.
As many small businesses continue to face challenges in meeting their staffing needs, there is an often-overlooked labor market with significant potential: individuals living with developmental disabilities.
Currently, Arlington County’s Department of Human Services (DHS) supports more than 600 residents living with developmental disabilities. Many of these individuals work independently or with County-sponsored support, such as a job coach. There are countless additional residents who are not only interested in working in Arlington but are eager to thrive with the right employer and support.
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.
This regularly scheduled sponsored Q&A column is written by Eli Tucker, Arlington-based Realtor and Arlington resident. Please submit your questions to him via email for response in future columns. Video summaries of some articles can be found on YouTube on the Eli Residential channel. Enjoy!
Question: Are you seeing any signs of more supply coming to the housing market?
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 Austen Soare, 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.
Politico and Axios report that the Biden administration is planning to announce changes to its border policy today. Do we know what those changes are yet? No, we don’t — but we have some very good guesses.
