Author: ARLnow.com Sponsor

VCO Event: Free Consultation on ‘Invisible Braces,’ Plus $1,000 Off

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

For five years, Dr. Crissy Markova and the smile squad at the Virginia Center for Orthodontics have been giving patients reasons to smile — and not just because of the state-of-the-art orthodontic care, but because they specialize in making going to the orthodontist fun.

On January 31, they’ll give them yet another reason to smile: VCO is hosting a free special event to demonstrate the benefits of Inbrace, also known as “hidden braces.” Smiling yet? How about a $1,000-off offer for signing up for hidden braces during this one-day special event?

Unlike other braces, the hidden braces are just that, hidden from view, as they are inserted behind the teeth, not in front. Compared to clear trays, hidden braces do not require you to take any tray in and out when eating. Since the braces are working 100% of the time, the time frame is usually 6 months faster than clear trays! Patients can achieve a complete orthodontic treatment as quickly as possible and with minimal impact on lifestyle, which makes hidden braces ideal for professional adults.

The Harvard-trained Dr. Markova and her staff use cutting-edge orthodontic equipment to customize each set of hidden braces with a 3-D scan and 3-D printing technology (plus, a robot bends a special custom wire!). This results in fewer follow-up appointments. Learn more about the process and the $1,000 off offer at here.

Start the journey to a winning smile with a free consultation on Friday, January 31, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Spaces are limited so call the office at 703-774-3070 soon. VCO is at 1600 Wilson Blvd., Suite 810, convenient to both Courthouse and Rosslyn Metro stations.

See this page for a virtual tour of the office and this one to meet the VCO team. Info at [email protected].

Legal Insider: Psychological Conditions and Security Clearances

By ARLnow.com 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.

A psychological condition can become a security clearance concern for government contractors and federal employees.

The good news is that federal agencies, especially over the past 10-15 years, have responded to such concerns with more empathy and consideration than ever before. However, there are some considerations to be aware of when these issues arise.

We all know that a mental health condition can enter an individual’s life at any time and for any reason. It can be genetic or can be triggered by a death, divorce, loss of employment or injury. When a psychological condition arises in the context of applying for or attempting to retain a security clearance, the individual needs to seek legal advice to enable the person the best opportunity to maintain or obtain their security clearance.

Being diagnosed with a mental health illness doesn’t mean that the individual can’t obtain or continue to hold a security clearance. Thousands upon thousands of clearance holders retain their security clearances even if they have psychological conditions. These days, the best way for a security clearance holder to address psychological issues is to disclose them where appropriate and demonstrate that any psychological issues are under control or no longer an issue. There are many ways to do this.

Furthermore, the revised Adjudicative Guidelines (SEAD 4) for Psychological Concerns (Guideline I) state that “no negative inference concerning the standards in this guideline may be raised solely on the basis of mental health counseling.”

The key for an individual is to be upfront and honest in completing security clearance forms and in speaking with investigators about such issues. It is often the case that an individual can lose a security clearance because they did not disclose a serious psychological condition (dishonesty) when had they disclosed the psychological concern they would have obtained their security clearance.

The following are examples of the potential mitigation evidence that can be used in security clearance cases involving psychological conditions, depending on the specific facts or condition at issue. These can include:

  1. Medical opinions issued by mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors) showing that a psychological condition is under control
  2. Evidence that demonstrates that an individual has complied with medical treatment and recommendations related to a psychological condition
  3. Evidence that the individual has entered counseling, therapy or other treatment programs administered by medical professionals
  4. Evidence that a psychological condition no longer affects the individual

Each case under Guideline I is different, but we have found that most cases can be mitigated with the proper attention to treatment and the preparation of documentation showing that any major psychological condition is under control or in the past.

Conclusion

If you are in need of security clearance representation or advice, please contact our office at 703-668-0070 or through our contact page to schedule a consultation. Please also visit and like us on Security Clearance Blog, Facebook or Twitter.

Rethink Energy: Free Green Renovation & Home Building Resource

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

This regularly-scheduled sponsored column is written by the Arlington Initiative to Rethink Energy team (AIRE). This county program helps you make smart energy decisions that save you money and leaves a lighter footprint on the environment.

Arlington’s real estate market is very tight. Ask Eli‘s posts shed light on this with his analytical insights. Because of this short supply of housing, more and more Arlingtonians are staying in their homes and renovating or expanding them to accommodate growing families.

Have you been thinking about a home renovation, expansion or new construction in 2020?

350 Arlingtonians have already used Green Home Choice, a FREE County program, to help you make your renovations, additions and new home projects healthier and more sustainable.

When buying a car, fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride are central considerations. Given the investment you make when renovating or building a new home, comfort and efficiency should be equally if not more important.

On average, a Green Home Choice home uses 50% less energy than Arlington homes of the same size and saves between $600 and $1600 per year on utility bills.

Green Home Choice also helps homeowners renovate their kitchens and bathrooms in a more sustainable way and offers a certification for participation.

Whether you are a homeowner, developer, architect or builder, Green Home Choice can help you rethink your next construction project to enhance the quality, value and overall sustainability of your home.

For more information about the program, visit the Green Home Choice Website at www.greenhomechoice.us or contact [email protected].

Listing of the Day: 1600 N. Oak Street #1621

By ARLnow.com Sponsor
1/10

Address: 1600 N. Oak Street #1621
Neighborhood: Rosslyn
Listed: $776,000
Open: Sunday, January 12 from 2-4 p.m.

This stunningly renovated 2 BR/2 BA condominium in the luxurious Belvedere offers sweeping 16th floor river and monument views of Washington, D.C., and a downtown modern ambiance. Enjoy beautiful sunrises over the Potomac and a front row view to the July 4th fireworks from this majestic city retreat, just 3 blocks from the Rosslyn Metro.

The open floor plan features 1,320 square feet plus sunroom and over $165,000 in high-end upgrades and quality craftsmanship.

A striking gourmet kitchen with bar seating, sunroom with folding glass door, separate dining area, master suite with barn doors, beautifully renovated master bath, LED accent lighting and unique Duraamen epoxy floors are just some of the features that make this unit so special.

The master bath features a travertine tile heated floor, huge walk-in shower with rain showerhead and two large walk-in closets with organizer systems. The second bedroom features built-in desks, cabinets and a full-size Hardwood Artisans oak murphy bed.

The Belvedere is a pet-friendly building that offers a host of top-notch amenities that include 24/7 front desk concierge, outdoor pool, tennis and Pickleball courts, fitness room with sauna, convenience store with dry cleaning, library and lounge, carwash bays and a party room.

For more photos and an interactive floor plan visit 1600NOakSt.com.

Listed by:
Meg Ross
Keller Williams Realty
703-447-0970
[email protected]
MegRoss.com

Open Houses in Arlington This Weekend

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

Looking for a home? There are plenty of houses and condos open for viewing this weekend.

Check out the Arlington Realty website for a full list of homes for sale and open houses in Arlington. Here are a few highlights:

3616 N Upland Street
7 BD/7 BA, 1 half bath single-family home
Agent: Keller Williams Realty
Listed: $2,549,000
Open: Sunday 2-4 p.m.

 

1881 N. Nash Street #212
2 BD/2 BA condo
Agent: Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc
Listed: $1,200,000
Open: Sunday 1-3 p.m.

 

1615 N. Queen Street #M604
1 BD/1 BA condo
Agent: Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
Listed: $929,00
Open: Sunday 1-4 p.m.

 

908 18th Street S.
4 BD/3 BA single-family home
Agent: Taylor Properties
Listed: $830,000
Open: Sunday 2-4 p.m.

 

4237 36th Street S.
3 BD/2 BA condo
Agent: Samson Properties
Listed: $639,900
Open: Sunday 1-4 p.m.

 

2424 S. Oakland Street
3 BD/2 BA villa/townhouse
Agent: Weichert Realtors
Listed: $525,000
Open: Sunday 1-3 p.m.

Just Listed in Arlington

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

Just Listed highlights Arlington properties that just came on the market within the past week. This feature is written and sponsored by Team Cathell, “Your Orange Line Specialists.”

The consensus is in on the outlook for our housing market in 2020.

Here are the views from the top economists from the National Association of Realtors, Fannie Mae, Realtor.com, Zillow, Redfin, the National Association of Home Builders and more.

Buyers beware and get ready. 2020 will be more agonizing than last year as a scarcity of inventory will get even worse. “2020 will prove to be the most challenging year for buyers not because of what they can afford, but rather what they can find,” says George Ratiu, senior economist with Realtor.com.

Mortgage interest rates will stay about the same, currently at 3.75% for a 30-yr fixed rate, through 2020 rising no more than 4%. That’s some good news for buyers.

Home values will increase in 80% of major metro areas across the U.S., rising by 1.8% to 6%. In 2019, Arlington values rose 6% for single family homes. With less inventory and greater demand, we should see home values rise 6% to 8% in 2020.

Because of inventory scarcity nationwide, some 25% of all transactions will be involved in bidding wars. In my opinion, you can double that for Arlington in 2020.

Home builder confidence is the highest in 20 years as contractors race to keep up with demand. They expect to deliver 4% more homes to the market than last year. But still the U.S. faces a cumulative housing shortage of 1 million homes based on population growth and household formation.

In other words, buckle up.

This week in Arlington some 41 sellers listed their homes, and 32 buyers ratified contracts. The spring market has sprung.

Click to see all the fresh new inventory in MRIS and call Team Cathell (703-975-2500) when you find a home you like.

Statutes of Liberty: The First Trump Amnesty — Liberians, Take Note

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

This sponsored column is by James Montana, Esq. and Doran Shemin, Esq., practicing attorneys at Steelyard LLC, an immigration-focused law firm located in Arlington, Virginia. The legal information given here is general in nature. If you want legal advice, contact James for an appointment.

“Amnesty” isn’t the word that the Trump Administration would want to use — they’re calling “Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness” — but it walks like an amnesty and quacks like an amnesty, so, take it from your friendly local immigration lawyers: this is the Liberian Amnesty.

Not all Liberians qualify, but many do. Here are the rules, paraphrased and streamlined:

  1. You must file an application for a green card by December 20, 2020.
  2. You must be a citizen of Liberia.
  3. You must have been “continuously present” from November 20, 2014 to the date that you file your green card application.
  4. You must not have been convicted of a serious crime.
  5. You must not have persecuted others for their political or religious convictions.

Several of these rules include terms of art. “Continuously present” allows for short gaps in presence; “serious crime” is our plain-English way of saying “an aggravated felony or two or more crimes involving moral turpitude.” And there are waivers available for some people who might be otherwise disqualified. It’s complicated! If you’re Liberian, call your lawyer.

Non-Liberians in the audience are probably wondering why on earth the Trump Administration would do this. The short answer is that some Liberians have had TPS (Temporary Protected Status) and DED (Deferred Enforced Departure) since the George H.W. Bush administration promulgated temporary protections for Liberians in 1991. That was a long time ago — one of us was born in that year, and the other one was a first-grader at Ashlawn Elementary, right here in Arlington. (Hi, Ms. McCray!)

Between 1991 and the present, various Presidential administrations of various ideological dispositions have extended temporary protection to Liberians in the United States. The Trump Administration moved to abolish these protections as of March 30, 2020.

That move inspired Rhode Island’s Congressional delegation to add the Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness Act as a rider to the National Defense Authorization Act. (Why Rhode Island? There are lots of Liberians there. The more you know!) And Rhode Island happens to be the home state for the Ranking Member on the Armed Services Committee, Sen. Jack Reed.

The world is full of surprises. The Trump Amnesty for Liberians is one of them. We suspect that it would come as a surprise to him, too. In President Trump’s comments after he signed the National Defense Authorization Act, he commented on the prolixity of the Act:

So it’s now my honor to sign the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act into law. And again, congratulations.  Thank you all very much. Very, very special people. Thank you very much. (Applause.)

This is the thickness. Can you believe that? (Laughter.)

(The act is signed.)

It’s now signed.  (Applause.)

We, too, applaud. Many Liberians across the United States will be able to finally stop worrying and become lawful permanent residents.

As always, be in touch with us directly if you need legal advice. If you have other sorts of questions, comment below. We love comments and will reply to all we can.

Join the Alair Homes Team in Arlington

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

Alair thrives on a unique service delivery system for the residential and commercial contracting industry.

We seek to hire candidates who are looking for a flexible, independent working environment that provides a high quality of life, with six figure earning potential and opportunities for ownership. Experience is preferred, but attitude is the most important factor.

Alair Homes provides comprehensive Project Management Training. We use proprietary software and an online system to ensure our PM’s have the tools to work independently with the support they need to provide the clients with the best possible experience.

Let us know why you have the potential to join and grow with our team!

Job Responsibilities

  • Provide excellent customer service to ensure we create “raving fans”
  • Follow the “Alair Process” and have a full and complete understanding of the Alair Project Management software — comprehensive training provided
  • Attend weekly team meetings
  • Maintain a high level of integrity and honesty with the client and team members
  • Maintain constant communication with each client to get timely decisions and approvals for all selections and scope changes
  • Attend and facilitate job progress/status meetings
  • Work collaboratively with all team members including staff, sub trades and market partners, as well as work independently and be self-motivated
  • Maintain, edit and create detailed scope of work sheets for each project
  • Be responsible for collecting and managing sub trade and vendor quotes
  • Manage subcontractor agreements
  • Seek new sub-trades and vendors as needed — maintain a network
  • Monitor project budgets and review with client consistently
  • Create, monitor and maintain project schedules
  • Confirm and order specialty items, fixtures and material (long lead items)
  • Create invoice requests and facilitate payments
  • Be familiar with current codes and stay up to date on best building practices
  • Attend a post completion job evaluation for each project
  • Responsible for job site safety, security and cleanliness
  • Oversee the safety policy; keep the company and sub trades working within guidelines

Qualifications and Desired Skills:

  • Strong oral and written communication skills
  • Comfortable with technology
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask

Contact Alair Homes at [email protected] and follow along on Facebook.

Biz Talk: Year in Review, Arlington Business Investment

By ARLnow.com Sponsor
Photo via David Hills

This article was sponsored by Arlington Economic Development‘s Business Investment Group.

2019 proved to be another exciting year for Arlington Economic Development (AED) as it continued its efforts to diversify and strengthen the County’s economy.

AED assisted in recruiting and retaining economic development projects equating to 850,000 square feet of office space, excluding the Amazon HQ2 project, which represents the leasing of more than 6 million square feet of office space over the next 15 years.

“We are proud of all we’ve accomplished in 2019. From working with prospects across diverse sectors and providing assistance to over 150 Arlington businesses, this year has been one of exciting progress following our 2018 Amazon HQ2 win,” said Marian Marquez, the newly named Director of Business Investment for Arlington Economic Development. “We are kicking off 2020 with incredible momentum — while our commercial vacancy rate is the lowest we’ve seen in seven years, we have plenty of work cut out for us in keeping up the momentum and are highly focused on continuing to provide the services and support that our existing business community needs to thrive.”

2019 Arlington Economic Development Highlights

Amazon

Amazon’s Arlington headquarters, which will create a minimum of 25,000 high-paying jobs in Arlington over the next 15 years, began to take shape in 2019. The County Board approved the project’s performance-based incentive package in March, the company began moving into its initial buildings in Crystal City, and the County Board approved for the company to build its twin 22-story headquarters in Pentagon City.

Yext

New York-based technology company Yext announced it would locate its new 43,000 square foot office in Rosslyn and will create 500 new high-paying technology jobs. The company’s CEO cited the area’s technology talent as being one of the key factors for choosing Arlington.

Block.one

In September, Hong Kong-based blockchain company Block.one announced its decision to locate its US headquarters in Arlington. The company’s central office will create 170 new jobs over a period of three years and occupy 47,000 square feet in Rosslyn.

Public Broadcasting Service (PBS)

After a competitive site selection process, PBS decided to remain in Crystal City and signed a 15-year, 120,000 square foot lease at 1225 S. Clark Street. PBS is one of Arlington’s most prominent corporate brands and is one of the most well-known and trusted institutions in the U.S  The company is an important anchor in Crystal City and a major draw for Arlington’s creative economy and media industries.

Nestlé USA

Nestlé USA announced that it will continue to expand at 1812 N. Moore Street in Rosslyn. Nestlé and sister company Gerber now occupy a total of 300,000 square feet of space — 95,000 square feet more than its original footprint announced in 2017.

Patent & Trademark Office

In October, the County learned that the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office (PTO) renewed its lease for another 15 years at 2800 S. Randolph Street in Shirlington, expanding from 168,000 square feet to 191,000 square feet. The retention of PTO is a major success in Arlington’s strategy to retain its federal leases and ensures that PTO employees will continue to support neighborhood businesses for years to come.

Just Reduced Properties in Arlington

By ARLnow.com 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.

Let’s bust out the crystal ball and predict what’s going to happen in 2020.

Will the Caps win the Stanley Cup again? Will there be world peace? We shall see.

On the housing front, Realtor.com recently released its National Housing Forecast 2020 and it’s full of some interesting predictions. Among them, the group anticipates the following nationally:

  • Mortgage rates to creep up .03% by the end of the year to 3.88%
  • Existing home median sales price appreciation to rise .08%
  • Existing home sales to fall 1.8%
  • Single-family home housing starts to jump 6%
  • The homeownership rate to hit 64.6%

So, this translates to price growths flattening and inventory remaining tight.

Locally, in the D.C.-Arlington-Alexandria metro area, Realtor.com is anticipating a 1.5% decline in the number of sales and a 2.6% jump in price.

These stats certainly reflect the trend here in our market of limited inventory yet increasing prices, anchored by a strong job market, competitive wages and forthcoming projects, like Amazon’s HQ2.

Bottom line: It’s shaping up to be another interesting year in Arlington County and surrounding areas. And, when you’re ready to navigate the local real estate market and get the most bang for your buck, on either side of a transaction, the time-tested team at Arlington Realty Inc is ready to roll on your behalf.

As of January 6, there are 100 detached homes, 11 townhouses and 54 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 3 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week:

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.

Learn More About IUDs at Capital Women’s Care Division 67

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

Did you know? IUDs are considered one of the most effective forms of birth control by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG).

At Capital Women’s Care Division 67 we have a collaborative practice featuring three Obstetrician-Gynecologists (OB-GYNs) and a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) all trained to insert IUDs.

We love to talk to our patients about their reproductive goals, when or if they want to start a family, grow their family or help with their period symptoms. One of the tools to help during this journey is an IUD. IUD stands for intrauterine device, or a small device placed inside your uterus to help prevent pregnancy or help with period symptoms.

There are many different types of IUDs. There’s a non hormonal one, ParaGard and hormonal types Mirena, Lilleta and Kyleena. The ParaGard IUD has no hormones, it is made up of copper which repels sperm making and is an effective form of contraception. This IUD is preferred by patients who generally have no symptoms with their periods and want a non hormonal form of contraception.

The Mirena, Lilleta and Kyleena have one hormone, progesterone. This is different from regular birth control pills that tend to have estrogen and progesterone. In addition to preventing pregnancies, hormonal IUDs can lighten your periods and reduce cramps and pain associated with your period. IUDs are great for patients who are looking for a long term effective reversible form of contraception that they don’t have to take every day.

Our providers offer top of the line care for all your obstetrical and gynecological needs. We would love to answer questions about IUDs as well as all your gynecologic questions. Helping our patients find the right form of contraception is very rewarding and we look forward to working with you!

Please call to make an appointment today at 571-970-6050 or schedule a visit quickly and easily online: www.capitalwomenscareobgyn67.com.com.

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