Seventeen government buildings around Fairfax County, including the U.S. Geological Survey headquarters, could be going up for sale amid federal spending cuts.
Buildings in Reston, and Springfield were among 443 federal properties listed by the General Services Administration (GSA) as “not core to government operations” on Tuesday (March 4) before that list was taken down just one day later.
CIA and Other Intelligence Agencies Ramp Up Layoffs — “The CIA also has started to dismiss some probationary workers, a spokeswoman said. About 80 people have been let go, said one former officer, who like other current and former officials spoke on the condition of anonymity because they feared reprisals for speaking out or because they work in sensitive jobs.” [Washington Post]
Childcare Center Planned for Hybla Valley — “A new early learning center for 86 children up to age 5 has been funded by Fairfax County with $10 million in 2024 carryover funds and is tentatively slated to open in winter 2028 at the Hybla Valley Community Center … Additional carryover funding of $500,000 was designated for a feasibility study of other possible childcare sites in the county.” [On the MoVe]
GMU Baseball Team Breaks Scoring Record — “The George Mason University baseball team scored 23 runs in an inning against Holy Cross on Tuesday to break an NCAA Division I record that has stood for 42 years. The Patriots (8-4) sent 28 batters to the plate in the second inning of a 26-6 victory against the visiting Crusaders (5-5) in Fairfax, Virginia.” [ESPN]
County Offers Funding to Local Startups — “Fairfax County announced the next application round for the Fairfax Founders Fund (FFF), a program designed to fuel innovation and business growth, will be open from March 17 through April 21, 2025. FFF provides selected early-stage startups with up to $50,000 in funding capital.” [Department of Economic Initiatives]
School Prom Dress Shop Opens Today — “Prom season has officially begun. Students from Centreville High School and the Fair Oaks Classroom on the Mall program will open their annual Prom Dress Shop, which aims to help economically challenged students celebrate in style, on Friday, March 7.” [Fairfax County Public Schools]
Bill Would Allow Localities to Require Solar Over Parking Lots — “There is, though, another way, one that could indeed turn parts of Northern Virginia (and other developed areas) into utility-scale solar projects without giving up farmland or rural viewsheds. That way was what was over Bulova’s head that summer day in Las Vegas: solar panels over top of parking lots.” [Cardinal News]
Man Gives 700th Blood Donation to Inova — “Richard Martin started donating whole blood with the Red Cross and then switched to Inova when he was asked to consider a different type of donation in 1982 … On Wednesday afternoon, squeezing a red, heart-shaped stress ball, Martin watched bags fill up and reflected on what would become his 700th donation.” [WTOP]
Feedback Wanted on Park Near Kingstowne — “The Fairfax County Park Authority invites the community to a public meeting to discuss the Olander and Margaret Banks Neighborhood Park. The meeting will take place on Thursday, March 20, from 1-2 p.m. at Richard Byrd Library (7250 Commerce St., Springfield).” [FCPA]
It’s Friday — Expect mostly sunny skies today and a high temperature of around 57 degrees. The west wind will reach speeds of 11 to 18 mph, gusting up to 31 mph. Tonight, there is a 20% chance of showers before 1am, with mostly cloudy conditions and a low temperature near 40 degrees. [NWS]
A former independent contractor who worked in Fairfax County Public Schools admitted to perpetrating multiple sex crimes this week.
Arturo Elmore-Adon, 26, pleaded guilty Tuesday (March 4) to two counts of possessing child pornography, four counts of unlawful videotaping of a minor and one count of sexual battery.
Herndon Police Chief Maggie DeBoard was quietly placed on administrative leave last month, and it’s unclear when — or if — she’s expected to return.
DeBoard, who became the town’s first female police chief when she was appointed in 2012, was put on administrative leave on Feb. 12, a town spokesperson says, confirming a Feb. 28 report by WUSA9.
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
The polygraph examination is a key component of the security clearance process for individuals seeking access to classified information in sensitive government positions, usually within the Intelligence Community (IC).
The test measures physiological responses — such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration — while the subject answers a series of questions. The goal is to determine whether the individual is being truthful, particularly about issues that could pose a security risk, such as drug use, criminal activity, or foreign contacts.
However, some applicants may find themselves in a situation where they fail the polygraph, either due to physiological reasons, anxiety, or other factors. Understanding how to handle this outcome is essential for safeguarding your clearance prospects. We represent individuals in polygraph and security clearance matters.
When is the Polygraph Exam Used?
Polygraph tests are typically used during the background investigation process for higher-level security clearances. They are discussed in Security Executive Agent Directive 2. In some polygraphs, the examiner asks a series of yes-or-no questions related to national security concerns, such as whether the applicant has committed espionage or had unauthorized contact with foreign nationals.
The test is meant to be one of many tools in determining a person’s reliability and trustworthiness. While polygraphs are not foolproof and can be influenced by a variety of factors — such as nervousness, medical conditions, or even the examiner’s approach — the results can have a significant impact on the outcome of a clearance investigation. A failed polygraph does not automatically result in disqualification, but it is an important red flag that must be addressed.
Failing a Polygraph Exam
If you fail a polygraph exam, it is important to remember that this does not necessarily mean the end of your security clearance process. The next step typically involves a follow-up interview with the agency conducting the investigation, where you may be asked to explain the results of the polygraph. During this interview, it is crucial to be honest, calm, and cooperative.
In some cases, polygraph results may be inconclusive or misinterpreted, and further clarification or re-testing might be necessary. If the failure is related to a specific issue, such as a misunderstanding or anxiety, providing evidence or context may help clear up any doubts. However, if there is a legitimate concern — such as involvement in illegal activities or a failure to disclose critical information during the background check — the results could jeopardize your eligibility for a security clearance.
Additional Steps & Subsequent Polygraph Examinations
If you are unable to pass the polygraph, you should take immediate steps to address the issue. First, consider requesting a second (or third) examination, especially if you believe that anxiety or other non-deceptive factors affected the results. You may also want to consult with a security clearance attorney with expertise in polygraph examinations who can help you understand the security clearance process.
If there are specific issues that led to the failure — such as a past criminal act or undisclosed financial problems — you must be prepared to address these concerns in a transparent and honest manner. Failure to do so could be interpreted as a lack of trustworthiness, which could ultimately harm your clearance prospects. In some cases it could lead to a Statement of Reasons proposing to deny a security clearance.
To avoid potential issues with a polygraph in future clearance applications, it is vital to maintain a high level of honesty and transparency throughout the process. Review your background information carefully and disclose any possible issues, even if they may seem minor. If you are particularly concerned about the polygraph or the questions you will be asked, consider preparing in advance by speaking with a security clearance lawyer who can advise you on how to handle the process.
Final Thoughts
A failed polygraph for a security clearance is a serious issue, but it does not necessarily spell the end of your clearance application. By understanding the polygraph process, being prepared to address any concerns in the aftermath, and seeking professional advice when necessary, you can increase your chances of successfully navigating this challenge.
The key to handling a polygraph failure is to remain honest, transparent, and cooperative throughout the process. With the right approach, you may still be able to resolve any issues and move forward in the security clearance process.
Contact Us
Our law firm represents and advises federal employees in various employment law matters. If you need legal assistance regarding a federal employment matter, please contact our office at (703) 668-0070 or at www.berrylegal.com to schedule a consultation.
The trustees of a Dunn Loring church have pulled back a proposal that some day might see their 4.2-acre site redeveloped for multi-family housing with a child-care center and new worship space.
Trustees of the Vine Church, a United Methodist-affiliated congregation located at 2501 Gallows Road, had nominated the site to be considered for Fairfax County’s site-specific plan amendment (SSPA) process, which allows members of the public to propose land use changes.
Call Your Mother is now serving up bagels and babka to Reston customers.
After a soft opening limited to friends, family and other invited guests yesterday (Wednesday), the rapidly growing regional chain officially launched its newest location at North Point Village Center this morning (Thursday).
Local Shoppers Worry About Tariffs — “With tariffs of 25% now in place on goods from both Canada and Mexico, shoppers at a D.C.-area grocery store are voicing concern that it will affect them at the checkout.” One shopper at Trader Joe’s in Idylwood says she’s worried about the impact of more expensive groceries on “people that are lower class and even the middle class.” [WTOP]
Virginia License Plates Proliferate in Maryland — “All those Virginia license plates on Baltimore’s streets cost Maryland millions of dollars, but the state has little authority to do anything about it, according to a recent Motor Vehicle Administration report sent to Gov. Wes Moore’s office.” [Baltimore Banner]
Ethiopian Market Opens in Annandale — “Annandale has a new shop specializing in products imported from Ethiopia. Lidya Market & Café opened in late February at 4544-A John Marr Drive. The store offers pantry items, such as berbere, a mixture of ground chili peppers and spices; shiro, made from ground chickpeas; lentils; rice flour; coffee; dates; snacks; and incense.” [Annandale Today]
Springfield Sports Complex Acquires Hockey Program — “Washington Little Capitals Inc., a four-decade-old youth hockey development organization, will be acquired by Springfield sports complex The St. James.” The Little Caps needed a new home rink with its current base, the Ion International Training Center in Leesburg, closing its ice rinks in May before converting “to an events and conference center.” [Washington Business Journal]
Competitive Runner in Reston Inspires Community — “Ecris Williams has covered a lot of miles in her 86 years. Whether by racing cars or running races, the spirited senior is no worse for the wear … The longtime Reston resident turns heads and blows minds with her remarkable exercise ethic.” [Northern Virginia Magazine]
Art Class at Reston School Celebrates Neurodiversity — “On a Wednesday morning at South Lakes High School in Reston, Matt Ravenstahl bounces around from table to table. He offers suggestions to students working on projects that range from making masks to sketching flags from different countries.” In the “Inclusive Fine Arts” class, “students who are neurotypical work alongside those who are neurodivergent.” [WUSA9]
County Summer Camps Start Registration Soon — “Registration for NCS summer camps kicks off Tuesday, March 11, 2025. The Department of Neighborhood and Community Services offers a variety of summer camp options for youth and teens throughout Fairfax County. Register early and secure your spot for a summer of fun activities, new friendships and lasting memories!” [NCS]
McLean Framing Shop to Support Nonprofit — “Please join the McLean Chamber of Commerce, McLean Project for the Arts and Framebridge for a private shopping event to celebrate the recent grand opening of Framebridge. Bring digital photos, art, memorabilia to frame and 10 percent and all sales will benefit McLean Project for the Arts.” The promotion will be in effect from 5-8 p.m. next Thursday, March 13. [Federal Realty]
It’s Thursday — Expect partly sunny skies and a high around 49 degrees. The day will be breezy, as a west wind increases to 18 to 23 mph in the afternoon with gusts up to 46 mph. Night will be mostly clear with a low near 33 degrees. The northwest wind will blow at 11 to 18 mph, gusting as high as 34 mph. [NWS]
After 11 years in Loudoun County, it wasn’t clear what the future held for Meadows Frozen Custard.
Having battled what he describes as an over-saturation of One Loudoun for years, franchisee Michael Nassif considered shutting his doors for good — until he found the perfect new location in Reston.
A potential legal battle is brewing over the stalled project to revitalize Herndon’s downtown.
The Town of Herndon filed a declaration in Fairfax County Circuit Court last Friday (Feb. 28) terminating Comstock Companies’ rights to the nearly 5-acre block at the northeast corner of Center and Elden streets that the developer had planned to turn into an arts center, apartments, retail space and a parking garage.
