Under the direction of Music Director James Ross, Alexandria Symphony Orchestra kicks off its 2023-2024 season and 80th anniversary celebration on September 30 at 7:30 p.m. at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center!
The season and celebration continue on October 1, at 3:00 p.m. at the George Washington Masonic Memorial.
The program entitled “ASO at 80-oh!” opens with Toast, an original commissioned piece featuring composer Lester Green at the keyboard leading into Quinn Mason’s Toast of the Town with full orchestra.
The program includes two masterworks: Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4 and Johannes Brahms’ Violin Concerto with Elissa Lee Koljonen as soloist. Hailed for her sensual and personal playing, Koljonen has graced the stages of prominent venues throughout the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Elissa Lee Koljonen appears by arrangement with the Curtis Institute of Music.
Both venues provide free parking. Season subscriptions and single tickets are on sale. Subscription packages start at $86 for five concerts; adult prices for single tickets start at $20 with $5 for youth (18 and under) and $15 for students. Military, senior and group discounts are also available.
Children’s National Hospital will host the annual Race for Every Child on Saturday, October 21 at Freedom Plaza in Washington, D.C., and virtually.
Funds raised from the 5K and Kids Dash benefit Children’s National patients and families. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Children’s National relies on donations to make world-class care and research possible. The event has raised more than $11.4 million since 2013.
Sam, who had heart surgery as a baby at the hospital, now plans to run the 5K for the 11th year. His parents, Taryn and Eric, are co-chairs of the Race. “We wanted to do everything we could to help this amazing hospital who helped us,” Taryn says.
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 security clearance lawyers represent government contractors and federal employees before the National Security Agency (NSA) in security clearance (and employment cases). The NSA is an intelligence agency with its own unique security clearance process under Security Executive Agent Directive 4 (SEAD 4). This article discusses the appeals process for government contractors at the NSA for security clearance and Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) access denials or revocations.
The Security Clearance Process at the NSA
The security clearance appeals process at the NSA is similar to those used by other federal (and intelligence) agencies, with its own unique features. The following are the usual steps at the NSA in the security clearance or SCI review process for government contractors.
1. Revocation or Denial of Security Clearance/SCI Letter Issued by NSA
When a government contractor has a security clearance or SCI access denial or revocation with the NSA, they will receive a letter that provides the background and security clearance concerns in a case. The letter is referred to as a Clearance Decision Statement and will then state that the contractor is given 45 days from receipt of the letter to respond to the alleged security concerns. The investigative file, upon which the denial is based, will often be attached to the NSA letter to facilitate a response by the contractor. With other intelligence agencies, an individual must usually first request the investigative file. The investigative file will usually include documents, reports, interviews, or other items relevant to the NSA’s security concerns at issue. Our security clearance lawyers typically represent contractors starting with this first step.
2. Response to the NSA Clearance Decision Statement
If the contractor elects to challenge the Clearance Decision Statement they will respond to the NSA’s security concerns in writing. A thorough response must be prepared to address all of the security issues. It is critical to also provide exhibits, such as relevant evidence, declarations, character letters, declarations, affidavits, and other documentation related to the NSA’s security concerns or the character of the individual.
3. Decision by NSA Office of Personnel Security is Issued
Once the response to the Clearance Decision Statement is received by the NSA, the NSA Office of Personnel Security will review and issue a decision as to whether or not the security concerns against the government contractor have been dismissed or mitigated. If so, the matter is then resolved and the clearance or SCI is restored. If not, the individual will be provided a short decision briefly citing the reasons why the appeal was denied and informing the contractor of their right to a final appeal before the NSA Access Appeals Panel (AAP). There is then a very short period of time (usually 15 days) in which to either request a hearing with the AAP or otherwise simply submit a secondary written appeal.
4. Meeting with the NSA Access Appeals Panel
If the contractor has elected to provide an in-person response (which is recommended), the next step is a meeting with the AAP. Any additional supporting documents must usually be submitted no later than 14 days prior to the AAP hearing. The AAP hearing is an in-person presentation. During this hearing before the AAP, counsel and the contractor will present their case asking for a reversal of the negative security clearance or SCI determination. The panel normally has 6-7 people present (panel members and an NSA attorney/advisor) and typically asks several questions during the presentation so it is important to be prepared. We recommend legal counsel during this process to ensure adequate preparation for the AAP hearing.
5. The NSA AAP Decision
Following the AAP hearing, they will issue a decision, usually within 1-3 weeks, either granting the clearance or access or issuing a final denial. In a few cases, the NSA AAP may seek additional information or an additional response from the contractor. If the AAP issues a denial, the contractor may re-apply for a security clearance or access a year later. The relatively quick clearance review process at the NSA is unique among intelligence agencies where the security clearance process can often take much longer.
Conclusion
When a government contractor is facing security clearance issues at the NSA it is important to obtain legal advice and representation from an experienced security clearance lawyer. Our law firm advises government contractors and federal employees in the security clearance process. We can be contacted at www.berrylegal.com or by telephone at (703) 668-0070.
Address:5112 9th Street N Neighborhood: Mulhall Type: 5 BR, 5 BA single-family detached — 3,557 sq. ft. Listed: $1,999,000
Noteworthy: Brand new home that checks all the boxes and has a large, fenced backyard!
Welcome to your new home by Classic Cottages! This beautifully designed residence offers an unparalleled living experience with a 13 minute walk to Ballston Quarter.
The gourmet kitchen is a chef’s dream, equipped with JennAir stainless steel appliances, sleek quartz countertops, ample storage space, and a center island that serves as a focal point for culinary creations. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this kitchen provides everything you need to whip up delicious meals.
Upstairs, you’ll find the luxurious primary suite, offering a private retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The primary bedroom boasts generous proportions, large windows, and two walk-in closets, providing both comfort and convenience. The primary bathroom is a spa-like oasis, featuring a soaking tub, a walk-in shower, and elegant fixtures that exude sophistication. Two additional well-appointed bedrooms can be found on this level, each with its own unique charm and plenty of natural light. These rooms are versatile and can be used as guest rooms or a home office.
The lower level of the home offers additional living space, including a spacious recreation room with wet bar, bonus room and guest room. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to personalize the space to suit your lifestyle.
Outside, the property features a beautifully landscaped yard, providing a serene environment for outdoor activities and gatherings. The deck is perfect for barbecues and al fresco dining. 5112 9th Street N benefits from its prime location in Arlington.
This column is sponsored by BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
This fall season brings a plethora of opportunities for Arlingtonians to discover local art in the community. Returning for the second year, one such event is the “Arlington Art Walk” on Thursday, October 5, from 3-7 p.m.
Visitors can visit multiple exhibits and sites in one day along the Clarendon-Ballston corridor. Are you looking for an after-hours unique activity? Discover galleries, a Made in Arlington Market, live music, demonstrations and stop-worthy public art installations along this vibrant creative corridor.
This year’s event brings back 2022 favorites Arlington Art Truck, Cody Gallery, MoCA Arlington, ARC 3409 studios, Fred Schnider Gallery, Mason Exhibitions and WHINO. Adding to the fun, the Art Walk welcomes Arlington Independent Media (AIM), The Shop at Arlington Public Library, Made in Arlington Market at MoCA, Northside Social Arlington, Public Art installations and GMU Mason Square activities.
The “Arlington Art Walk” is a self-guided art experience that connects local galleries, artist studios and cultural events. During the walk, gallery hours for participating organizations will be extended so that our friends, neighbors and artists can see what we’re up to.
Once you’ve enjoyed Art Walk’s live music at Northside Social, a pop-up market at MoCA, the Arlington Art Truck at Welburn Square Mega Market Thursday, wine offerings, public art installations, a broadcast from AIM and more, be sure to keep these gems on your cultural go-to list throughout the year.
Care to network with creatives? Don’t miss the finale reception at WHINO in Ballston Quarter at 7 p.m.
Learn about Arlington’s celebrated art and vibrant network of stunning gallery spaces on this walkable, self-guided cultural tour.
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 September 4, there are 42 detached homes, 24 townhouses and 159 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 11 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.
Training Ground, Ballston’s popular new fitness concept, has just officially opened its second Arlington location in Rosslyn!
With 5-star Google ratings at its locations in Arlington and Bethesda, Training Ground is an environment where trainers and clients can both thrive, regardless of one’s goals and fitness background.
Training Ground provides personal trainers with high-end fitness equipment and exclusive gym space for operating their own programs while bringing some of the best trainers to local clients for truly personalized training. Most importantly, clients can workout in an exclusive, welcoming facility without a busy gym environment or membership.
Trainers can focus on developing personalized programs that best suit their clients’ needs, while clients benefit from improved and specialized programming, flexible schedules, and no gym commitments.
Training Ground Arlington is readying its brand new, state-of-the-art facility in Rosslyn for a soft opening in the coming weeks, but now is the time for clients to get in on the ground floor by taking advantage of grand opening specials, and for trainers to sign on while space is still available! A few spaces remain in the schedule for trainers who want to take advantage of the Training Ground Arlington shared workspace concept.
Discount packages for clients in search of personal training are also available.
Training Ground Rosslyn is located at 1500 Wilson Boulevard. For more information email [email protected].
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 there any studies or data comparing the results of on-market vs off-market sales?
Answer: I hope everybody had a great Labor Day Weekend! Last week, we reviewed what the MLS/Bright MLS is which is a good lead into the recent study completed by Bright MLS that looks at the performance of properties sold on-market (via Bright MLS) vs off-market (not listed for sale in the MLS). For those so inclined, the study provides a detailed explanation of their methodology that led to the data reported in this article.
Selling On-Market = Listing in MLS
When people talk about selling or buying homes on or off the market, they are generally referring to whether or not that home was listed in an MLS. Our regional MLS is called Bright MLS and is the second largest in the country including most or all of Virginia, D.C., Maryland, Delaware, West Virginia, Penslyvania, and New Jersey.
Almost 95% of DC Metro Homes Sold on Market
The vast majority of homes are sold on-market, especially in the D.C. Metro, which has the largest percentage of on-market sales of anywhere in the Bright footprint with 90% of homes selling on-market in 2022 and 93.5% in 2023 Q1, up from 85% in 2019
Selling On-Market = Much Better Price for Sellers
The study went to great lengths to analyze the results of comparable properties (something they failed to do in their initial study in 2021) to provide an accurate measure of the difference selling through Bright MLS makes for sellers. The chart below shows how much more a comparable home sells for when sold via Bright MLS vs off-market/MLS.
The on-market premium has increased significantly over the last three years when the market has been running red-hot. Homeowners in the D.C. Metro earned 18% more on comparable homes sold on-market in 2023 Q1 and 15% more in 2022.
When the market heats up like it has the last few years, you often hear homeowners talk about how easy it is to sell a home off-market because there’s so much demand. Sure that is true, but the question is not whether or not you can sell the home off-market (of course you can), the question is whether or not that nets you the best result (it rarely does).
Why Sell Off-Market?
There are a number of scenarios where an off-market sales with limited exposure is justified — privacy (athletes/celebrities), security (high value personal possessions), interest from a family member, friend, or neighbor — and there are examples of off-market sales producing results that match or sometimes exceed what one might get via the MLS, but for the vast majority of homeowners, an on-market sale will produce significantly better results because of the tremendous increase in exposure to potential buyers.
Those considering an off-market sale should do so with a clear understanding of the disadvantages and measure those against your own reasons for considering an off-market approach.
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.
This sponsored column is by Law Office of James Montana PLLC. All questions about it should be directed to James Montana, Esq., Doran Shemin, 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.
No one should envy the Biden Administration. Like Presidential Administrations before it, the Biden Administration is caught on the horns of a dilemma: rigorous border enforcement leads to federal injunctions, because enforcement frequently infringes on the legal rights of asylum applicants; rigorous protection for asylum applicants leads to increased border crossing rates, with real consequences for border towns and distant cities alike.
Congress is never, ever going to yell “Uno!”
The Biden Administration has dealt with this dilemma with a carrot and stick approach. First, the Administration has worked to create alternative pathways which do not require presenting yourself at the border; and, in addition, the Biden Administration has made increasing use of humanitarian parole to permit asylum seekers to apply for asylum from deep in the interior of the U.S.; those policies are the carrot. (We wrote about those alternative pathways, in these pages, here.)
Second, the Administration attempted to force asylum seekers to apply for protection using a kludge-driven machine: the CBP One App. (We wrote about the CBP App in these pages, here.) Failure to use the CBP One App would, in the new policy, be punished with ineligibility for asylum; that’s the stick.
On July 25, Federal Judge John S. Tigar enjoined the stick. His reasoning was simple. U.S. law permits asylum applicants to apply for asylum, no matter how they entered the United States, and no matter where they entered the United States, politics be damned. If Congress wants to change that, let it do so.
Earlier this year, Federal Judge T. Kent Wetherell entered a Temporary Restraining Order against the carrot. His reasoning was simple. Under federal law, parole is a benefit to be granted sparingly, on a case-by-case basis, and the Biden administration has been using parole wholesale to deal with large migrant flows. If Congress wants to allow that, let it do so.
Both of these policies are kludges, and poor replacements for Congressional action. The Biden Administration, like the Trump Administration and the Obama Administration before it, has attempted to work around Congress via Executive Action, and the Biden Administration — like the Trump Administration and the Obama Administration before it — is losing in court repeatedly. That’s predictable, because U.S. federal law offers both generous procedural rights to asylum seekers and severely limits the discretion of the Executive to parole large groups of noncitizens into the United States.
Eventually, Congress will respond to the increasing pressure within the system, and enact real policy change. We hope that happens soon.
As always, we welcome your comments and will do our best to respond.
Address:2437 N. Quantico Street Neighborhood: Lee Ridge Type: 6 BR, 6 (+1 half) BA single-family detached — 5,627 sq. ft. Listed: $2,379,000
Noteworthy: Gorgeous, spacious home that meets buyers’ new home checklist!
Join Classic Cottages on Sunday, September 10th at its latest Tybee Model in Arlington’s Lee Ridge neighborhood!
This gorgeous home sits on a large 11, 355 sq. ft. homesite with a fenced yard. The 5,627 sq. ft. home features 6 spacious bedrooms and 6.5 bathrooms, 4 of which are conveniently located on the second level. This home checks all the boxes for a new home buyer with its appointed main level including a main level bed/bath which could also serve as a home office. Also on the main level you will find a mud room, powder room, dining room, great room with gas fireplace, and gourmet kitchen with walk-in pantry and butler’s pantry.
On the lower level, you’ll find a spacious entertainment room with wet bar. Enjoy front porch sitting on the expansive covered porch. This is a beautiful must-see home if you or someone you know is in the market!
