Active Rain/Tomato Blog

Judge Rules that Reposting an Entire Article Without Permission Is ‘Fair Use’

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 16:58:28 -0700

In the interest of expediency and "fair use", I am reposting this entire article as seen in today's Media Bistro update. The long term impact remains to be seen but it certainly puts copyright laws to the test.

A federal judge ruled in favor of a defendant who reposted an entire article in a copyright case on Monday, Wired reports. The lawsuit was brought by Righthaven, a Las Vegas-based “copyright litigation factory,” according to Wired, that has sued more than 200 websites, bloggers, and commenters for copyright infringement. This particular lawsuit targeted Wayne Hoehn, who posted an entire editorial from the Las Vegas Review-Journal and its headline, “Public Employee Pensions: We Can’t Afford Them” on a website medjacksports.com. Hoehn was not an employee of the site.

The “fair use” doctrine can be used as a copyright infringement defense in a situation where a defendant has used a copyrighted work without permission. In short, it provides a defense where the work has been used for limited, noncommecial purposes, including commentary, criticism, news reporting, research, and scholarship. Whether or not “fair use” applies is based on a balancing test. Let’s (roughly) go over the elements as applied to this case.

For one, the doctrine looks at the effect of the reproduction on the monetary value of the original piece. While Righthaven argued that Hoehn’s reposting had cost the article’s original website some eyeballs, the judge found that no evidence was presented that “the market for the work was harmed.”

Second, the doctrine considers whether the reproduction itself is intended to make money off of using the original work. In this case, the judge found that Hahn’s use was “noncommercial,” and just for the purposes of “online discussion.”

Third, the doctrine looks at the original work itself. Intriguingly, here the judge took into account the fact that only five of the editorial’s 19 paragraphs were “purely creative opinions” of the author. That was “not enough to consider the work a purely ‘creative work’ in the realm of fictional stories, song lyrics, or Barbie dolls,” the judge wrote.

Finally, the doctrine considers the sheer amount of the original work taken. In this case, clearly the entire article was reposted. But set against the other factors, it was not enough.

It’s worth pointing out that the judge also held that Righthaven did not have legal standing to bring the case at all, because Righthaven did not itself own the copyright of the Las Vegas Review-Journal article. But we think the “fair-use” analysis is the more interesting discussion in this case.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Impact of Government Shutdown on Real Estate

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 13:55:48 -0700

With Congress and the President at an impasse, it's worth looking at the impact of a government shutdown on real estate.

Rob Clark, our go-to mortgage guy, has shared a list from PHH Home Mortgage on what might happen during a shutdown:

Tax transcript - If the IRS is on furlough, tax transcripts will not be available..
Flood insurance - Borrowers may have difficulty obtaining flood insurance through FEMA.
FHA - HUD may not support FHA Connection during their hiatus, and therefore we will not be able to order case numbers or perform other functions in FHA Connection while they are on furlough.
Rural Housing - We are not sure of the impact to GUS since that system was created since the last shutdown in 1995. However, we should anticipate the system will not be available. In addition we will not be able to get conditional commitments during the shutdown.
VA - The system by which VA appraisals are ordered will not be available.

Buyers must also take into account the loss of income brought on by a furlough and contact their lender immediately. Let your agent shoulder part of the burden too. Keep them apprised of your situation at all time. In turn, they will work with the sellers agent to keep the contract in play.

Personally, I don't think we will reach a shutdown***, but a advance preparation and understanding never hurts.

Questions? Give me a call at 703.927.4554.

Michael

**** although my hopes are dimishing rapidly

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Del Ray Meet-n-Greet Monday March 14

Sun, 13 Mar 2011 18:24:40 -0700

The Del Ray Citizens Association's (DRCA) 10th Annual Meet-n-Greet will take place on Monday, March 14 in the George Washington Middle School Cafeteria from 7-9:00pm.

Originally designed to introduce new residents to local businesses, the Meet-n-Greet is now a forum for city agencies, city council members and city programs, as well as our own Del Ray initiatives.

A favorite area for this real estate agent at the Meet-n-Greet is the Developer's Corner. This is an incredible opportunity to meet with the City's Department of Planning and Zoning and see scale models of current and future development projects.

This year expect to see designs and/or models for

Potomac Yard
The Calvert project
Waterfront Small Area Plan
Projects in Arlandria

You'll also have a chance to meet representatives from the Sheriff's Department, the Fire Department, the Real Estate Assessment Office (that could be an interesting conversation!) and much, much more.

It will also be your chance to join the DRCA and sign up to volunteer for annual Del Ray events like Art on the Avenue.

See you Monday night -

Michael

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Alexandria Chamber of Commerce Launches Local Buying Program

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 22:00:02 -0800

In an announcement that went out on our local list serv yesterday, the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce is launching a local buying program similar to Groupon.

Called "Try It Local", the program offers savings of 40-90% from retailers, service providers, and restaurants who are members of the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce.

An email notification goes out each morning with that day's special offer (s) and you have until the end of the day to purchase the coupon. The length of time available to use the coupon depends on the business offering the discount.

While still in it's infancy, "Try It Local" was developed specifically for Chamber of Commerce affiliates and is currently available in 26 cities - a nice benefit for travelers who sign up.

Some of the other Chamber cities on the roster include Cape Cod (!!!), Amelia Island, Baltimore, Las Vegas, San Diego and San Francisco.

We signed up right away and, sure enough, got our first coupon offering this morning from Union Public House in Old Town.

We'll keep you posted on how we like it but we think it's a great way to support Alexandria's local businesses.

Michael

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

THIS is Feedback????

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 21:40:31 -0800

Real estate agents are frequently asked by sellers for "feedback." Sometimes it's feedback from an open house but more often the seller wants to hear from every agent and client who visits the house.

I have mixed feelings about the logic of this process. If your house is not what a buyer is looking for then it's not what a buyer is looking for. Period, end of discussion.

When it goes on the market your house should be sparkling clean, clutter removed, cosmetic changes made, etc. etc. If a buyer still doesn't like what they see they'll move on and so will you. (Pricing is another matter entirely and one we'll get into later.)

Interestingly, the Washington Post in all its wisdom (?) has decided to take "feedback" to a whole new level.

The Post is now offering a Web site where potential buyers snap a photo of the "one thing" that is keeping them from buying a particular D.C. area home and upload it for the world to see.

I had to read the banner twice in Sunday's Washington Post to make sure I understood what they were suggesting and then went on the Web site to see for myself. And yes, there were two pictures of what buyers did not like.

Why? What good does this do anyone? The site asks only for the neighborhood, the approximate price of the house and the day visited.

There is absolutely no way to verify the information or the picture. Those submitting the picture can also check a box indicating their willingness to be contacted by a reporter for future "news gathering". Is this what "news" or even "feedback" has come to? No context, no verification, no investigation.

Count me out on this "feedback."

Michael

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Giving Back - It's Never to Early to Start

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 19:05:03 -0800

Giving back is clearly a learned behavior and it's never to early to start.

*This summer my daughter challenged herself to raise almost $10,000 for cancer research by climbing Half Dome in Yosemite National Park.

**My son, a Realtor in South Carolina, works with the Exchange Club on an annual carnival that contributes hundreds of thousands of dollars to local groups.

***And now my four year old grandson is stepping right up and ringing that bright red bell for the Salvation Army.

Any wonder I'm a proud papa? Giving back, it's never to early to start.

Michael

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Luxury Hotels in Virginia and Maryland for a Holiday Get Away

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 19:50:45 -0800

Our friend Jordon Wright, a chef, writer and entrepreneur who brings a certain 'je ne sais quoi' to everything she does, has written a terrific review of luxury hotels in Virginia and Maryland for a holiday get away.

Whether you want an last minute Christmas get away or you're still looking for a special New Year's celebration, Jordon has done all the research.

From Charlottesville and the Piedmont to Maryland's Eastern Shore and Virginia's Northern Neck, this list of luxury inns and hotels will have you packing in no time.

For the complete story, click here.

Michael

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Words of Wisdom for the Holiday Food Table

Sat, 18 Dec 2010 17:11:09 -0800

Words of Wisdom for the Holiday Food Table

1. Avoid carrot sticks. Anyone who puts carrots on a holiday buffet table knows nothing of the Christmas spirit. In fact, if you see carrots, leave immediately. Go next door, where they're serving rum balls.

2. Drink as much eggnog as you can. And quickly. It's rare.. You cannot find it any other time of year but now. So drink up! Who cares that it has 10,000 calories in every sip? It's not as if you're going to turn into an eggnog-alcoholic or something. It's a treat. Enjoy it. Have one for me. Have two. It's later than you think. It's Christmas!

3. If something comes with gravy, use it. That's the whole point of gravy. Gravy does not stand alone. Pour it on. Make a volcano out of your mashed potatoes. Fill it with gravy. Eat the volcano. Repeat.

4. As for mashed potatoes, always ask if they're made with skim milk or whole milk. If it's skim, pass. Why bother? It's like buying a sports car with an automatic transmission.

5. Do not have a snack before going to a party in an effort to control your eating. The whole point of going to a Christmas party is to eat other people's food for free. Lots of it. Hello?

6. Under no circumstances should you exercise between now and New Year's. You can do that in January when you have nothing else to do. This is the time for long naps, which you'll need after circling the buffet table while carrying a 10-pound plate of food and that vat of eggnog.

7. If you come across something really good at a buffet table, like frosted Christmas cookies in the shape and size of Santa, position yourself near them and don't budge. Have as many as you can before becoming the center of attention. They're like a beautiful pair of shoes. If you leave them behind, you're never going to see them again.

8. Same for pies. Apple, Pumpkin, Mincemeat. Have a slice of each. Or if you don't like mincemeat, have two apples and one pumpkin. Always have three. When else do you get to have more than one dessert? Labor Day?

9. Did someone mention fruitcake? Granted, it's loaded with the mandatory celebratory calories, but avoid it at all cost. I mean, have some standards.

10. One final tip: If you don't feel terrible when you leave the party or get up from the table, you haven't been paying attention. Re-read tips; start over, but hurry, January is just around the corner. Remember this motto to live by:

"Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO HOO what a ride!"

Have a great holiday season!

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Shop Del Ray in Alexandria for All Your Holiday Needs

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 15:13:44 -0800

Shop Del Ray in Alexandria for All Your Holiday Needs! It's no secret that we love Del Ray. It's been our home for the past 20 years and we think it's a pretty special place.

The Del Ray Business Association, of which we are a proud member, has put together this terrific video on why you should shop Del Rey in Alexandria for all your holiday needs. After all, it's where Main Street Still Exists.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

2010 Scottish Walk Parade in Old Town Alexandria

Sat, 04 Dec 2010 21:43:13 -0800

Despite brisk 40 degree temperatures, crowds lined the streets of Old Town Alexandria today for the 40th Annual Scottish Walk Parade.

Alexandria's Scottish heritage was well represented with tartan clad clans, dogs, music and dancing. It was a proud day for the bonnie laddies and lassies of Alexandria!

"Scottish Walk Parade 2010"

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Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Christmas Holiday House Tours in Northern Virginia

Sat, 04 Dec 2010 21:40:38 -0800

Holiday house tours in and around Northern Virginia kick off this weekend. Whether you stick close to home with the Historical Alexandria tours or travel a bit to take in St. Michaels, it's a lovely holiday treat.

St. Albans Christmas House Tour features five homes in Spring Valley. Dec. 3 from 11:00am - 5:00pm and Dec. 4 from 10:00 - 4:00pm. Tickets are $35.

Frederick, MD Candlelight House Tour opens seven private home in the Baker Park neighborhood. Dec. 4, 5:30pm - 9:30pm and Dec. 5, noon - 4:00pm. Tickets are $20.

Logan Circle Holiday House Tour highlights twelve homes in a self guided tour. Dec. 5, 1:00pm - 5:00pm. Tickets are $20 online, $25 day of the tour.

Holiday Candlelight Tour at Montpelier Mansion includes light refreshments and children's activities. Dec. 10 and 11, Tickets are $3

Christmas in St. Michaels Tour of Homes is now in its 24th year. Dec. 11, noon - 5:30pm and Dec. 12, 11:00am - 3:30pm. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 day of tour.

Historical Alexandria Candlelight Tours offer hot cider, period costumes and musical performances. Dec. 11, 6:00pm - 9:00pm and Dec. 12, 3:00pm - 6:--pm. Tickets are $20; $15 for seniors; $15 for ages 6-17; children under five are free.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Pictures with Santa Claus in Del Ray and Old Town Alexandria

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 21:08:10 -0800

This weekend is your chance to get pictures taken with Santa Claus in both Del Ray and Old Town Alexandria.

On Friday night, Dec. 3, Del Ray will celebrate the holiday season with luminarias, a tree lighting, singing and, of course, Santa Claus. Professional photographer Mark Blackburn will be on had to take pictures - all courtesy of the Del Ray Business Association.

Festivities get started at 6:00pm at the site of the Del Ray Farmers Market at Oxford and Mt. Vernon Avenue.

Santa Claus will also make an appearance in Old Town Alexandria at the Old Town Firehouse at the corner of Prince and Royal. Santa's appearance here is a fund raiser to support the Helping Hands Relief Fund.

For a donation of $10 you can use your own camera and take pictures (and lots of them) with Santa or use the photographer on hand. Santa is in residence from 11:00am -3:00pm on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 4 and 5.

And to top it off, Santa always makes an appearance in the Scottish Walk Parade - also scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 4 in Old Town Alexandria.

Ho, ho, ho,

Michael

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

BRAC Move to Mark Center Under Department of Defense Investigation

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 21:05:37 -0800

The continuing controversy over the proposed move of some 6,400 military personnel to Mark Center on Seminary Road as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process has taken a new turn.

US Congressman Jim Moran, a senior member of the Defense Appropriations Committee, and Northern Virginia stalwart, announced that the Inspector General's office of the DoD has launched an investigation into the move.

According to an announcement released by the Congressman's office, "The development comes in response to the Congressman’s continued pressure on the Defense Department to suspend or delay the move into the Mark Center site until the necessary transportation improvements to prevent a traffic nightmare on I-395 are implemented. Earlier this year, in addition to including a cap on the amount of parking at the site at 1,000 spaces, Moran authored language in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2011 that mandates the Inspector General to review the analysis that enabled DoD to bypass a full environmental impact study."

"In July 2008, an Environmental Assessment by the Army Corps of Engineers’ concluded that relocating the 6,400 employees to the Mark Center would have no significant impact from a transportation perspective. Multiple studies have since called that assessment into question, including ones prepared by the Virginia Department of Transportation and even the Army’s own report."

It makes you wonder if anyone in the Army Corp of Engineers has ever driven in rush hour traffic on this stretch of I-395 or even on major surface streets in the Seminary Road area?

Another huge area of concern over the BRAC move is a proposed access road through the adjacent Winkler Botanical Preserve.

Michael

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Christmas Concerts in Old Town Alexandria

Sun, 28 Nov 2010 21:32:22 -0800

The City of Alexandria is sponsoring a series of Christmas concerts at Market Square in the heart of Old Town Alexandria.

Enjoy the music of the season with gospel groups, barbershop quartets, folk music and caroling.

Saturday, November 27

Potomac Harmony Chorus (Women’s Barbershop) at 1 p.m.
Doris Justis (Acoustic Folk) at 2 p.m.

Sunday, November 28

Rich Follett (Contemporary Folk) at 2 p.m.
Barbara Martin (Acoustic Jazz) at 3 p.m.

Sunday, December 5

Shir Tze‘ir (Jewish a cappella) at 2 p.m.
The Alexandria Singers (Choral) at 3 p.m.

Saturday, December 11

Bell’s Angels, St. John’s Lutheran Church Handbell Choir ( Handbells ) at 1 p.m.
Alexandria Harmonizers (Men’s Barbershop) at 2 p.m.

Sunday, December 12

St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church Handbell Choir ( Handbells ) at 2 p.m.
Blue Book Value Band (Swing Blues) at 3 p.m.

Schedules are subject to change without notice. For additional information call the Events Hotline at 703.746.5592 or the Special Events office at 703.746.5418.

And if you want to look at real estate call me at 703.927.4554.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Alexandria Turkey Trot 2010

Sun, 28 Nov 2010 21:30:31 -0800

Over 4,000 runners gathered this morning under cold, gray skies to kick off the 2010 Alexandria Turkey Trot in Del Ray.

This was the 35th running of the Turkey Trot, the premiere DC area Thanksgiving road race.

the front runners

Going all out

All ages welcome

Sponsored jointly by the DC Road Runners Club and the Del Ray Business Association, the course is flat, fast and USATF certified.

What a great way to get ready for mashed potatoes and gravy!

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Celebrate the Holiday Season in Alexandria VA

Sun, 28 Nov 2010 21:28:31 -0800

Celebrate the holiday season in Alexandria with a full roster of activities:

Friday, November 26 – City of Alexandria's Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
Kick off the holiday season by attending the 2010 Annual City Tree Lighting Ceremony in Market Square, located in front of City Hall, 301 King St. Admission is free, and the event will take place rain or shine. Enjoy a visit from Santa Claus, a performance of Santa's Frosty Follies by the Metropolitan Fine Arts Center, and a community sing-along after the tree lighting.

Friday, November 26 - Alexandria Offers Free Parking at City Garages
On one of the biggest shopping days of the year - Black Friday - the City of Alexandria is offering free parking in all City-owned garages on Friday, November 26.

Friday, November 26 -- AWLA “Black Friday” Pet Adoption Promotion
On Black Friday, the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria will reduce adoption prices for all-black or partially-black companion animals. This special includes any companion animal at the League, including guinea pigs, rabbits, dogs, cats and other adoptable pets. All League pets are current on vaccinations and have been microchipped and altered.

Wednesday, December 1 – Annual Christmas Tree Sale Begins
The Annual Christmas Tree Sale to benefit the Alexandria Police Youth Camp will begin on December 1. The sale will be ongoing, weeknights from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and every weekend from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., until they are sold out! The sale is held by the Amtrak Station at 110 Callahan Dr.

Friday, December 3 and Saturday, December 4 – Annual Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend and Parade
With the fresh scent of heather and the festive melody of bagpipes, get right into the holiday spirit at the 40th Annual Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend and Parade, sponsored by the Scottish Government. The centerpiece of the Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend is the parade through historic Old Town, which celebrates the City's Scottish heritage and features more than 100 Scottish clans, bagpipe and drum bands, history reenactment groups, dog clubs, and a visit from Santa Claus. The parade begins at 11 a.m.

Friday, December 3 through Sunday, December 5 – 15th Annual Holiday Market at Del Ray Artisans
Stop by the 15th Annual Holiday Market at 2704 Mount Vernon Ave. in Del Ray! The Market offers unique handmade fine arts and crafts from 20 exhibitors, beautiful poinsettias from West Landscapes LLC, and delicious baked goods to benefit the local community. Admission is free. All exhibitors are DRA artist members and all crafts are handmade. The Market will be open from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, and 12 to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Friday, December 3 through Sunday, December 5 - Pet Photos with Santa
Santa Claus is coming to town, and that means it’s time to have your pets’ photos made with the jolly man in the red and white suit! The AWLA will hold its annual "Pet Photos with Santa" event December 3-5. Drop-ins are welcome, but residents are encouraged to call 703.746.4774 to make your appointment to ensure a spot for your pet.

Saturday, December 4 – Ornament Decorating Workshop for Families
Get inspired by the colors and patterns of pottery excavated in Alexandria and make a memorable holiday keepsake at the Alexandria Archaeology Museum, 105 North Union St. #327, from 1 to 4 p.m. Participants can decorate and take home dough ornaments shaped like artifacts from the museum’s own collection. This free event is great for families! For more information, call 703.746.4399 or visit www.alexandriaarchaeology.org.

Saturday, December 4 – 11th Annual Burke and Herbert Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
Alexandria's harbor lights up when more than 50 illuminated boats cruise the Potomac River at the historic waterfront. Festivities at the Marina (located at the foot of Cameron St.) run from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. with Santa arriving by fireboat at 4:15 p.m. to take free photos with kids and pets. The boat parade begins at 6 p.m.

Friday, December 3 – Holiday on the Avenue in Del Ray
Join us for the Annual Del Ray holiday tree lighting, visit with Santa and enjoy lighting of the luminaries from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Carols begin at 5:45 pm and hot chocolate, hot cider and cookies will be provided. At 6 p.m., sing "Here Comes Santa Claus" when Santa arrives! Santa will lead you down Mt Vernon Ave. to enjoy the luminaries lining the street and then will sit and hear what children want for Christmas. There will be candy canes for the children and photos can be taken on Santa's lap.

Sunday, December 5 – 13th Annual Women's Holiday Art Show
Take a break from crowded stores and come to the Charles Houston Recreation Center (901 Wythe St.) from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. for an afternoon of art, fun, women, and wine, sponsored by the Commission for Women and the Friends of the Commission for Women. Find gifts for everyone on your list and something for yourself! More than 30 exhibitors will display pottery, clothing, scarves, purses, jewelry, crafts, and more. Free refreshments will be served, and raffles will be held. Fifteen percent of the proceeds will be donated by the Friends of the Commission to support Domestic and Sexual Violence Services in Alexandria. For more information, contact Lisa Baker at 703.746.5030 or e-mail lisa.baker@alexandriava.gov.

Sunday, December 5 – Square Dance to Benefit Toys for Tots Drive
The Alexandria Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities and United States Marine Corps Reserve are hosting the 36th annual benefit square and round dance for the United States Marine Corps’ Reserve Toys for Tots drive. Donation per couple is a new unopened toy or a minimum $10 contribution. The event will be held at the Lee Center, 1108 Jefferson St., from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. A toy contribution may be dropped off at the Exhibit Hall before 3 p.m. For more information, call the Events Hotline at 703.746.5592 or the Special Events office at 703.746.5418.

Saturday, December 11 – Alexandria Holiday Cheerleading Invitational
Check out the fierce competition among the region’s best cheerleading teams at Alexandria’s Holiday Cheerleading Invitational, held at T.C. Williams High School, 3330 King St. beginning at 11 a.m. It is sponsored by the Alexandria Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities. For more information, call 703.746.5407 or e-mail mac.slover@alexandriava.gov.

Saturday, December 11 – Pre-Kwanzaa Program
Learn about the principles of Kwanzaa, a seven-day cultural celebration that begins December 26 and ends January 1, at a special event from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe St. Brian Sales, who studied with Kwanzaa founder Dr. Maulana Karenga, will instruct participants in the basic history of Kwanzaa, provide advice on celebrating Kwanzaa at home, and perform a traditional Libation Ceremony. This event is free and open to all. For more information, call 703.746.4356 or visit www.alexblackhistory.org.

Saturday, December 11 – Christmas in Camp Open House
This family holiday event interprets how Christmas was observed during the Civil War.

Saturday, December 11 – Children’s Kwanzaa Craft Workshop
Jessica Smith, founder of Culture Kingdom Kids, and Kwanzaa educator Pier Penic, will direct children (ages 4-12) and their parents in making Kwanzaa crafts at a workshop from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe St., in the Watson Reading Room. Advance reservations are requested and there is a $5 fee for craft supplies. For more information, call 703.746.4356 or visit www.alexblackhistory.org.

Saturday, December 11 – “The Black Candle: A Kwanzaa Celebration” Film Screening
The Alexandria Black History Museum (902 Wythe St.) will host a free screening of the documentary “The Black Candle: A Kwanzaa Celebration” from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. This landmark film from M.K. Asante uses Kwanzaa to explore and celebrate the African-American experience. Narrated by Maya Angelou, it traces the holiday's growth out of the Black Power Movement in the 1960s to its present reality as a global holiday embraced by millions worldwide. For more information, call 703.746.4356 or visit www.alexblackhistory.org.

Saturday, December 11 and Sunday, December 12 – Annual Historic Alexandria Candlelight Tours
Special nighttime candlelight tours at Old Town Alexandria’s historic sites are a charming, relaxing break from the fast pace of the season. Tour Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, Carlyle House, Lee-Fendall House and the Athenaeum and enjoy seasonal decorations, entertainment and light refreshments. Sunday features kid-friendly tours and a special activity! Cost is $20 for adults, $15 for seniors (65 and older), and $5 for children (ages 6-17). Reservations are recommended.

Sunday, December 19 – Holiday Favorites with the Colonial Handbell Ringers
Stop by the Lyceum on 201 South Washington St. and join the Colonial Handbell Ringers as they present their festive holiday musical show! Get into the holiday spirit as you listen and sing along with their performance of holiday classics using a long set of Whitechapel bells. The free event will consist of two one-hour shows, the first at 2 p.m. and then repeated at 4 p.m. For more information, call 703.746.4994 or visit www.alexandriahistory.org.

Friday, December 31 – First Night Alexandria
This New Year's Eve bash takes place all over Old Town Alexandria, with 100 live performances at 17 venues, the Second Annual Fun Hunt, plus children's face painting and games; and a multimedia midnight spectacular with fireworks, lasers, video, and music at the George Washington Masonic Memorial. Performances start at 7 p.m. and conclude at 11:30 p.m. For more information, including event descriptions and ticket purchasing, visit www.FirstNightAlexandria.org.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Potomac Yard Development is Underway in Alexandria

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 05:37:42 -0800

The long awaited Potomac Yard development is underway. In fact, it didn't take more than a few weeks after final approval was passed by the Alexandria City Council for the bulldozers to move in and the signs to go up.

It's hard to capture the vast movement of land in these pictures but let's see if I can walk you through it. The first picture is the entrance at the intersection of Rt. 1 (Jefferson Davis Hwy) and Monroe Avenue.

Before construction this was a maintenance shop for rental cars and then a maintenance shop/parking lot for city school buses. Adjacent to it, and running parallel to Rt. 1 were two, if not three, soccer fields. In other words, it was a very large flat piece of land, at least half of which was covered in macadam.

"Picnik Show"

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That same space is now marked by a huge mound of leveled off dirt. We're not sure where the buses have gone but permanent soccer fields are under construction on the v-shaped parcel of land between the Monroe Street bridge and Eugene Simpson Stadium Park. This seems a natural addition to an already good sports/recreational complex and we're looking forward to it.

The final set of pictures is taken from the same Rt. 1, Monroe Street intersection looking north. Unfortunately I didn't capture the "before" pictures but just believe me when I say that there was a stand of trees buffeting the bike path on the right from Rt. 1. What you have now is a clear view, starting at the Monroe Street Bridge, all the way into Crystal City.

This new work will provide infrastructure for the development; look for road construction in the next few months.

On a side note, Edward Jones, a financial services company, is the first retail establishment to take up residence in the mixed use Station at Potomac Yard. Edward Jones is known for establishing offices in neighborhoods rather than large multi office complexes and we take this as a sign of the future for Potomac Yard.

A Civil War Christmas at Alexandria's Ft. Ward Museum on Dec. 11

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 05:29:57 -0800

A big thank you to neighbor Fox Vernon and his LesDunBelle Diary for alerting us to the Civil War Christmas at Ft. Ward Museum on Dec. 11.

For those of you who would like to combine a bit of history with your holiday festivities (along with a great way to entertain out of town visitors), this family oriented event features a patriotic Santa Claus, living history presentations, Victorian decorations, refreshments, tours and crafts.

We are particularly drawn to this event after attending our first Civil War reenactment in Mt. Pleasant, SC last weekend. It wasn't a big battle but the participants did Broadway proud, including a deserter who drew "boos" from the crowd.

In addition to cannons and lots of musket fire, there was a fine display of horsemanship with a preliminary cavalry skirmish. Before the battle there was a chance to wander the grounds of Boone Hall Plantation, visit with exhibitors and observe the customs of another time.

"Civil War Reenactment"

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But back to a Civil War Christmas at Alexandria's Ft. Ward Museum- soldiers and civilian interpreters will welcome the public to winter camps and the Museum, which will be decorated with festive greenery and a Victorian parlor tree.

The Officers’ Hut will be the setting for soldiers opening Christmas boxes from home and sharing how they plan to observe the holiday. Weather permitting, soldier will lead tours of the historic fort.

A Civil War-era Santa Claus, dressed according to a wartime image popularized by artist Thomas Nast, will read “The Night Before Christmas” to children and hear their Christmas wishes. Santa will also visit troops in camp, just as he did on the 1863 cover of Harper’s Weekly. Youngsters can also learn to make their own Christmas cards and ornaments.

Ladies dressed in period attire will serve light refreshments in the Museum and visitors holiday shoppers can browse a variety of Civil War books and “stocking stuffers” in the Museum shop.

The suggested donation is $2 for adults and $1 for children.

Fort Ward is the best-preserved fortification in the Defenses of Washington, which were built to protect the Union capital during the Civil War.

The Museum offers changing exhibits, tours, lectures, and interpretive programs throughout the year. Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site is located at 4301 West Braddock Road in Alexandria.

For more information about a Civil War Christmas at Ft. Ward, please call the Museum at 703.746.4848 or visit www.fortward.org.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

October 2010 Real Estate Market Report for Old Town Alexandria in Zip Code 22314

Sat, 20 Nov 2010 22:20:36 -0800

We haven't done specific zip code market reports in a few months but it seems like a good time to revive the practice. The October 2010 Real Estate Market Report for Old Town Alexandria in Zip Code 22314 shows gains in sales prices and a dramatic decrease in the number of days on the market.

October 2009 had 47 sales while October 2010 had a decrease of 22 percent with 37 sales. At the same time the average sales price in October 2010 increased 9 percent over sales in October 2009.

The biggest change was in days on the market with a 33 percent decrease (this is a good thing!) from October 2009 to October 2010.

October Old Town Alexandria 22314	2009	2010
Av. List Price	$588,123	$648,254
Av. Sold Price	$575,012	$628,194

Low List Price	$239,000	$279,000
Low Sold Price	$215,000	$269,000

High List Price	$1,149,000	$1,970,000
High Sold Price	$1,149,000	$1,900,000

# of Home Sales	47	37

Av. Days on Market	92	60

For more details about what the market is doing in zip code 22314 or for a customized CMA (comparative market analysis), call me at 703.927.4554.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

October 2010 Real Estate Market Report for Zip Code 22301 in Alexandria

Sat, 20 Nov 2010 22:16:38 -0800

Today's market report reflects October 2010 real estate sales for zip code 22301 in Alexandria.

Covering the neighborhoods of Temple Park, Rosemont and Del Ray, the October figures show a decrease in the number of sales, a modest gain in prices and a dramatic drop in the number of days on the market from October 2009 to October 2010.

As always, these numbers must be seen in context. There were no million dollar sales in October 2010. In fact, only two of the homes sold in October were above $600,000 yet properties moved at a brisk pace, averaging just 37 days on the market. Well priced properties sell - period.

October Del Ray, Rosemont, Temple Hills (22301 zip)	2009	2010
Av. List Price	$513,964	$515,575
Av. Sold Price	$509,386	$510,563

Low List Price	$214,900	$195,000
Low Sold Price	$225,000	$187,000

High List Price	$829,000	$744,900
High Sold Price	$817,500	$745,000

# of Home Sales	14	8

Av. Days on Market	65	37

For more information on these numbers or your specific neighborhood, give me a call today at 703.927.4554 for a free market analysis.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Recycling in Alexandria - What Those New Embedded Chips Really Record

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 11:04:49 -0800

Earlier this year the City of Alexandria announced a new recycling program. At the heart of the program were new containers with embedded chips.

Goodbye open yellow containers, hello sleek rolling blue cans!

Truthfully we didn't pay much attention to the announcement, nor to the fact that each new container would carry an embedded chip.

It soon became evident however that this embedded chip was the source of great angst for many. Government conspiracy, a way to raise taxes, invasion of privacy, etc., etc.

Now, thanks to a forum sponsored by Agenda Alexandria and reported by interested neighbors, we offer the following:

The embedded chips record block number and street name, not the name of the property owner.
The chips DO NOT track how much or what kind of trash an individual recycles.
The data collected by the embedded chips is used to determine the rate of recycling by route and day.
Recycling is not mandatory and non-participants cannot be fined or "punished" in any way.

Cost to dispose of one ton of trash - $75. Recycling "earns" the city $30 per ton.
The Solid Waste User Fee will increase from $331 to $336. This includes leaf and Christmas tree collection, weekly trash disposal, spring cleanup and recycling.
Mixing all recyclable materials together allows a reduction in the number of trucks and personnel, i.e., allowing for a more efficient use of city resources.

The following materials can be recycled:

mixed paper (including paperboard from cereal boxes)
cardboard
newspaper
plastics numbered 1-7
rigid plastics
coat hangers
aluminum cans, foil and trays
glass
plastic bags (in a bag)
empty aerosol cans
books
gable-top juice and milk containers

The following items can NOT be recycled:

take out food containers and Styrofoam
ceramics
pots and pans
light bulbs
batteries, paint cans and other hazardous items

And finally, if you think you need/want a smaller/larger container based on your weekly needs, call the Solid Waste Division of the City after Dec. 1 to request a new size. For more information phone 703.746.4410 or visit alexandria.gov/recycling.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

The Mosby - A Luxury Condominium in Alexandria's Del Ray Neighborhood Part Three

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 20:32:20 -0800

Back in August we introduced you to The Mosby, a luxury condominium in Alexandria's popular Del Ray neighborhood.

In fact, the Mosby sits right on Mt. Vernon Avenue in the very heart of Del Ray.

Like most things construction, developer Brian Thomas lost a few weeks because of errors in shipping, coordinating workmen and, well, there was a new baby too!

All that is behind him now and not only is the Mosby officially on the market, the first unit has been sold. The penthouse is waiting for a few finishing touches but the units on the bottom are open and available for viewing.

Watching the Mosby turn from a dream into a reality has been a real treat for us. The finished product is exactly what Brian promised - a unique quality development - that is an absolute asset for Del Ray.

"Mosby Part Three"

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From the original hardwood floors to the refinished claw foot tubs to high end appliances, the Mosby is urban living at its best. Interested in making the Mosby your home? Give me a call at 703.927.4554 and let's make it happen.

The Mosby – A Luxury, Boutique Condominium in Alexandria’s Del Ray Neighborhood Part One

The Mosby – A Luxury, Boutique Condominium in Alexandria’s Del Ray Neighborhood Part Two

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Getting Ready for a Home Inspection

Sat, 13 Nov 2010 15:46:08 -0800

I did a home inspection with some clients this morning and it reminded me that buyers need to get ready for a home inspection just like sellers do.

While sellers need to attend to annoying caulking or loose wires or faulty plumbing, buyers need to educate themselves - and stand up for what they want. A recent discussion on our neighborhood list serv is a good example of what can go wrong when you do

Neighbor "X" noted that although they wanted, and offered to pay for a separate chimney inspection, both their Realtor® and the home inspector talked them out of it. BAD MOVE. An inspection without a fiber optic camera , relying only on a visual inspection, is challenging.

In this case, the inspector missed over $10,000 worth of damage to the flues because he relied on a visual inspection. The damage was confirmed by three independent chimney inspection firms, all of whom used a fiber optic camera. Unfortunately the house had already gone to closing by the time the new homeowners found out the true price of their inspection.

This couple also received misinformation about the use of saddle valves (most often used in ice makers). The home inspector said the valve was fine. It wasn't. Saddle valves are in violation of the Standard Building Code*** and if an existing saddle valve wears out it may NOT be replaced with another saddle valve. Again, the home owner learned this after it was too late to resolve it in the home sale. ***Saddle valves continue to be used in ice makers despite code law.

Radon (an invisible, odorless, tasteless radioactive gas) is another area of testing that you may have to ask for. Inhalation in high levels, over a long time period, can cause lung cancer.

A final word of warning, home inspectors in Virginia are not formally liscensed. They have an association (ASHI) and it establishes some standards for them but has no authority for enforcement. Work with your Realtor to find someone who understands your concerns. Ask for references. Do your homework.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Bike Accessibility Is a New Standard for Some Homeowners

Sat, 13 Nov 2010 15:43:02 -0800

Here on GW, we have talked a lot about walkability and the impact on potential homeowners. But now a new standard for homeowners - bike accessibility - is demanding attention too.

Washington, DC leads the way in the number of local bike commuters - helped in no small part by the city's 45 miles of bike lanes including a dedicated stretch on Pennsylvania Avenue.

Arlington and Alexandria residents however can take advantage of the Mt. Vernon Bike Path and Four Mile Run, both of which connect to bike commuter routes in the District. Just last April, Alexandria installed some of the first "bike boxes" in the area, a safety move for both cyclists and motorists.

Developers are looking at the trend and installing bike racks in local communities like Ford's Landing and Old Town Village in Alexandria.

The City of Alexandria adopted a master Pedestrian and Bicycle Mobility Plan in 2008 to decrease reliance on automobiles and increase the ease of biking and walking in the City.

Some of the highlights of that plan include:

13 new and 2 reconstructed pedestrian and bicycle overpasses/underpasses
10.1 miles of new shared-use paths and 3.54 miles of reconstructed shared-use paths
Removal of 68 shared-use path surface obstructions and 10 clear width obstructions
16.3 roadway centerline miles of new bicycle lanes
3.7 roadway centerline miles of new climbing lanes for bicycles
16.4 roadway centerline miles of new shared lane markings for bicycles
12.31 miles of shared use pathways alongside roads

In addition, the City has installed a bike signal on the Mt. Vernon Bike Path at the driveway of the Porto Vecchio condominiums.

It's great exercise, relatively inexpensive and uses no carbon fuels - hey, there's a lot to be said for this bike accessibility!

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation

Real Estate Market Report for Alexandria and Northern Virginia October 2010

Sat, 13 Nov 2010 15:40:28 -0800

The Real Estate Market Report for Alexandria and Northern Virginia for October 2010 was released yesterday along with the annual Housing Opportunity Pulse Survey from the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

The survey questioned Americans from across the nation on their attitudes towards homeownership.

The results? Homeownership still figures prominently in the American dream with nearly 8 out of 10 respondents believing that buying a home is a good financial decision.

According to NAR, pending home sales have increased for the second consecutive month, rising 4.3 percent to 82.3 based on contracts signed in August.

The data reflects contracts, not closings. A sale is listed as pending when the contract is signed but the transaction has not closed, though sales are usually finalized within 60 to 90 days from signing.

Those surveyed also agreed that job insecurity and the lack of jobs continue to be the primary obstacle to home ownership and market recovery in the near future.

For those in a position to buy, it is a prime opportunity with historically low interest rates and a wide selection of homes that are more affordable than ever. NAR's survey respondents agreed, with more than two-thirds of respondents (68 percent) saying that now is a good time to buy a home.

If you are currently in the market to purchase a home, be aware that industry insiders are watching inflation rates closely right now. If inflation rates begin to rise, then so will mortgage rates. If mortgage rates rise, it could price many buyers out of their dream home.

Let's look at what is happening in Alexandria:

The number of October sales (116) were down 33.3 percent from October 2009 (174) and down 0.9 percent from September 2010. October YTD sales are running 4.9 percent behind last year's year-to-date sales of 1,657.
The October median sales price of $437,000 was up 16.9 percent from the $417,662 in October 2009 but down 5.0 percent from September 2010.
The average sales price in October was $471,910, up 13.0 percent from $438,356 in October 2009 but down 1.6 percent from $480,335 last month.

For a more detailed look at the October 2010 real estate market reports for Alexandria and Northern Virginia, check out the specific locations below:

Alexandria

Arlington

Fairfax Country

Faquier County

Loudoun County

Prince William

Washington, DC

So what's the real deal? How should this data impact your home buying or selling decisions? Is the market stabilizing or flailing?

It's times like these that I can provide you with the solid facts that are relevant to you, in your neighborhood.

I not only have the experience and knowledge to assist you, but I am in the local marketplace everyday and have access to pertinent local data that can help you make sound home buying and selling decisions.

Whether you are a home seller who needs professional guidance to price a property appropriately, or a home buyer who needs a responsible representative who will lead you through the process, I can advise you, dissect those national headlines, and give you the right kind of information to help you make the decisions that are right for you.

For help navigating the local real estate landscape, call me at 703.927.4554. I'm here for you.

Michael Bergin

Your Realtor in Alexandria and Northern Virginia - ABR - SRES - Military Relocation