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Well-Paid Maids Moves to Weekly Payroll

By PoP Sponsor (a)

At Well-Paid Maids, we are constantly looking for ways to be a great employer.

You may already be familiar with our living-wage commitment — we start all our staff at $23 per hour. You may have also already heard of our benefits package — every employee is offered health, dental, and vision insurance, 24 paid days off per year, and 100% employer-paid commuting.

Even with this solid foundation, however, our staff sometimes struggle to pay bills and handle emergencies due to cash flow constraints. For example, they can know they have money coming in next Friday, but that does nothing to help pay a sudden expense today.

To help ease that burden, Well-Paid Maids is moving to weekly payroll starting this month (October). It’s a small change that we are hoping will have a big impact on our staff by ensuring that the next payday is only, at most, a week away.

Like all our pro-worker policies, we expect this move to yield great things for our customers as well. We all know that we perform worse when our mind is off somewhere else. By easing one more source of financial stress for our staff, we’re confident that they will be able to do an even better job in your home.

Ready to book a cleaning? Visit www.wellpaidmaids.com to schedule your next appointment.

DC Open House List for This Weekend

By PoP Sponsor (a)

Our weather has quickly reverted from fall to summer for the week and while the temperature has fluctuated, the sizzling real estate market has not cooled. With 370+ DC Open Houses across the District this weekend, there’s home options for everyone. Check out our favorite open houses below and to see the complete Open House List, click here.

  • 2101 11th Street NW #402 — $710,000 — U Street Corridor
    Open Sat. & Sun. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. — Lorin Mones
    “Discover contemporary living in this modern 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo. The kitchen is a culinary masterpiece, featuring quartz countertops, a bar-style seating area, rich espresso cabinets, and high-end Jenn-Air appliances, ideal for both cooking enthusiasts and those who appreciate elegant design. Throughout the condo, the ash hardwood floors add a touch of sophistication. You’ll also have access to a shared rooftop terrace, perfect for taking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. And with secure garage parking making, convenience is at your doorstep. Whether you’re seeking a new home or a smart investment, this condo offers it all. Don’t miss your opportunity to make it yours today!”
  • 46 Rhode Island Ave NE #1 — $399,999 — Brookland/Eckington
    Open Sat. 12-2 p.m. — Jocelyn Vas & Molly Branson
    “Welcome home to this massive and expansive 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom condo, nestled in the vibrant heart of Bloomingdale/Eckington. Spanning an impressive 850 square feet, this unit stands out as one of the most spacious 1-bedroom condos in the area.”
  • 5230 Georgia Ave NW #406 — $719,000 — 16th Street Heights
    Open Sat. 12-2 p.m. — Jennifer Dameika
    “Rarely available three bedroom/three full bathroom penthouse! This stunning two-level condo includes your own private roof deck AND dedicated parking space. Built in 2020, The Commodore Condominiums boasts designer finishes, with Unit 406 including hardwood flooring throughout, white quartz counters, two-tone cabinets, gas cooking, recessed lighting, 9′ ceilings.”
  • 523 10th Street SE — $1,125,000 — Hill East
    Open Sat. & Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Kevin Wood
    $25k PRICE REDUCTION: “This charming historic gem, dating back to 1847, is a true masterpiece in the heart of Washington, D.C.’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. Nestled at 523 10th St SE, this exquisite residence seamlessly blends classic elegance with modern convenience. Boasting an unbeatable location just steps away from Eastern Market Metro, this home offers easy access to all that the nation’s capital has to offer.”
  • 1545 18th Street NW #807 — $315,000 — Dupont Circle
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Keith Milne
    “Picture perfect 8th floor studio condo in the heart of Dupont Circle near restaurants, cafes, cultural venues, recreation, and parks. Flexible layout, incorporating a roomy bed alcove, a walk-through closet/dressing room and an updated kitchen with combination convection/microwave oven, adjustable pantry shelving, quartz countertops and stainless-steel appliances.”
  • 400 Massachusetts Ave NW #216 — $774,900 — Penn Quarter
    Open Sun. 12-3 p.m. — Michael Bates
    $25k PRICE REDUCTION: “Gorgeous 2 Bed/2 Bath, loft condo available for sale! This upgraded condo unit boasts soaring 20 feet ceilings over the den, with large windows spanning entire unit. This unit features hardwood floors throughout, stainless steel appliances, induction cooktop, walk-in pantry, large bathrooms with double sinks in both, a separate laundry closet, 3 walk-in closets, central air conditioning, motorized blinds.”

Legal Insider: Federal Employee Administrative Grievances

By PoP Sponsor (a)

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 law firm represents federal employees in the federal employee grievance process. Most, if not all federal agencies have their own federal employee grievance procedures for employees who wish to bring employment disputes forward for resolution.

Why Federal Employees Use the Grievance Process

Generally, federal employees utilize a federal agency’s grievance process when other legal options do not fit. For example, a federal employee may decided to file an administrative grievance if their employment dispute does not qualify for an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) complaint, the appeals process at the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) or before other forums.

Types of Grievances

There are usually two types of federal employee grievances: (1) union grievances; and (2) administrative grievances. Typically, federal employees who are not eligible for the union grievance process use the administrative grievance process. Those federal employees represented by a labor union may be required to go through the union grievance process.

What do Administrative Grievances Cover?

Administrative grievances filed by federal employees involve employment disputes. For example, an administrative grievance can involve a challenge to a disciplinary action (example: Letter of Reprimand), a performance action, a re-assignment or other employment issue. There are numerous types of disputes eligible for the administrative grievance process for federal employees.

The Administrative Grievance Process

When considering filing an administrative grievance it is important to review the applicable administrative grievance process for your federal agency. Attached is a sample agency policy here. Each federal agency has its own administrative grievance procedures. Many administrative grievance policies require that a federal employee notify a supervisor verbally of the administrative grievance prior to filing a written grievance. Other policies require that a written grievance be submitted first.

Depending on the federal agency, an administrative grievance process typically includes 2-4 steps. Usually, at each step, the federal employee and a grievance official will attempt to resolve the grievance. Often the written grievance is submitted first and a secondary in-person meeting (when requested) is then held to discuss the administrative grievance. Usually, at the end of a grievance presentation the federal employee, often through counsel, will present a compromise resolution proposal. Following the administrative grievance presentation, the employee or counsel will receive a written decision on the grievance. If an initial administrative grievance is denied, then the federal employee will often have the ability to proceed to the next higher step of the process.

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Fiesta Style Block Party Celebrating 40 Years Taking Place October 14

By PoP Sponsor (a)
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On Saturday, October 14, La Clínica del Pueblo will take to the street, hosting La Fiesta del Barrio to celebrate 40 years of providing access to equitable healthcare for immigrants and other marginalized communities.

La Clínica is inviting everyone to come enjoy a block party in the heart of the D.C. Latinx community, with cultural entertainment, art, dance, health demonstrations, and activities for kids and seniors.

Saturday, October 14
Festivities begin at 11 a.m. and run until 4 p.m.
3166 Mount Pleasant St NW, Washington DC, 20010

Entry is FREE with food, local art and goods for sale

RSVP for event updates!

Featuring

Live music, dance performance and instruction with Elena La Fulana, David Cuevas, Shaka Brown, Baila DC, Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, World of Dance, Chata Uchis, and Jorge Anaya. Art by Jorge Henriquez Art, Four Elements Pottery, Jessy DeSantis Art, Artesana, Amiga Hormiga, Smithsonian, and more!

Delicious eats from Pina Colada Perumex, The Paella & Tapas Place, Pakos Fresh Mex, Mt. Desert Ice Cream, and other neighborhood spots. Bounce house, kids’ zone, seniors’ area, and activities to learn, play, and grow for all ages.

Close out Hispanic Heritage Month in true fiesta style while supporting the important work of La Clínica.

About La Clínica Del Pueblo

La Clínica is a 501c3 organization addressing the distinct health needs of Latinx immigrant communities through primary medical care, mental health services, community outreach, and medical interpretation. LCDP advocates for health equity for Latinx immigrants in the DMV. Visit www.lcdp.org.

Real Estate Fresh Finds: October 4

By PoP Sponsor (a)

Real Estate Fresh Finds is a weekly selection of newly-listed properties in the District, brought to you by RLAH Real Estate. 

Featured Property of the Week: 2000 16th Street NW #603

“Absolutely stunning 2 BR, 2 BA condo in the Balfour condominium! This historic Beaux Arts gem boasts a convenient location that’s hard to beat. One of the standout features of this condo is its top-floor position, which not only provides a sense of exclusivity but also floods the space with an abundance of natural light. The feeling of openness and brightness is truly exceptional. The upgraded Euro kitchen is a chef’s dream, equipped with stainless steel appliances that not only look sleek but also provide top-notch functionality. Whether you’re cooking up a feast or just whipping up a quick meal, this kitchen will inspire your culinary creativity. The hardwood floors throughout the condo add a touch of timeless elegance and are both durable and easy to maintain. They complement the space beautifully and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. The gorgeous, remodeled bathrooms are nothing short of luxurious, with high-end finishes that exude sophistication and style. These bathrooms are not just functional but also a true retreat where you can relax and unwind in style. In summary, this 2 BR, 2 BA condo in the Balfour condominium offers the perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury. From the top-floor location to the upgraded kitchen, stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors, and stunning bathrooms, it’s a true gem that offers both comfort and style in a fantastic location. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this condo your new home! Porcelain tile floors in kitchen and main entry. Upgraded kitchen has Honed Quartz counters, Melamine Gregio Pine cabinets and drawer fronts. Fisher & Paykel stainless steel refrigerator/freezer. GE Profile stainless steel range and dishwasher. Sharp Carousel built in microwave. Double stainless steel sink. Bathrooms contain Bianco-Dolomiti marble walls and floors. Christiana frameless door cabinets. Kohler stainless steel fixtures. Bedroom closets are complete with Elfa shelving. Oak wood floors throughout the condo. Wood window blinds over Caffes-Steele thermal windows with screens.”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 6 BR/6.5 BA Georgian in Kent that boasts 8k+ total sq. ft. across 4 levels and includes a wine cellar, 5 fireplaces, 3-car garage, large terrace, garden and a swimming pool with a detached pool house — all for $6.8M.
  • “Looking for a floating oasis in the city? Look no further! This entertaining 42 ft by 14 ft Californian barge boasts two bedrooms and one bathroom. As you walk through the front door, you are greeted with calm and a plethora of natural light. In August 2023, the owner painted the barge interior throughout, including ceiling trim, doors, and new outlet covers. Hardwood floors throughout the barge.”
  • “This stunning [Petworth] home offers a perfect blend of modern upgrades and classic charm. With 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and off-street parking, this residence provides ample space and convenience. Step inside and be greeted by the inviting open concept main level, seamlessly connecting the living room, dining room, kitchen, and a versatile bonus room/den.”
  • Your Auction Property of the Week is a 2-story brick end-unit in Riggs Park that “is a great opportunity to renovate and flip” that is “in need of a full renovation.”

Join City Ridge and URBNmarket for an Exciting Fall Fest

By PoP Sponsor (a)
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City Ridge is celebrating autumn with a two-day free Fall Fest, featuring D.C.’s premier artisan pop-event URBNmarket. On October 14th and 15th, visit City Ridge at 14 Ridge Square, NW and shop from over 50 carefully curated local vendors on City Ridge’s historic Great Lawn.

Fall Fest has something for everyone, from a vibrant pumpkin patch where you can pick the perfect gourd for your autumn décor to pumpkin bowling or painting. You can even attend a free Yoga class with Equinox at 11 a.m. each day. Savor delicious bites from local food trucks as you welcome the new season and get into the festive spirit with glitter tattoos and face painting, and don’t forget to treat your four-legged companions at the dog bone bar.

On Sunday, Oct. 15, there will be a special dog adoption event in partnership with Key to Lion’s Heart Rescue* and another event where you can bring your dog and enter them into the costume contest in partnership with Small Door Veterinary.

Visit City Ridge Fall Fest on Saturday, October 14 and Sunday, October 15 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This event is FREE and open to the public. More details are available here. Hourly parking is available on-site.

* If you are interested in adopting, it is recommended to get pre-approved on the rescue org.’s website.

Get to Know Hannah Braun, a Part-Time Student and Cleaner at Well-Paid Maids

By PoP Sponsor (a)

Meet Hannah Braun, who joined Well-Paid Maids as a cleaner in December 2022. We caught up with Hannah to learn more about her experience at the living-wage cleaning company based here in the D.C. area.

Why Well-Paid Maids?

I am a part-time college student but still need full-time work. Well-Paid Maids offers super flexible hours, but I also still get the weekends off! They pay enough that I don’t have to work as many hours as I previously did, which gives me more time and less stress.

How is Well-Paid Maids different from your previous work experience?

Well-Paid Maids stands out because they put their employees first. The biggest difference from my last job is the managers — they’re great! They always make it work when I need to go in late or leave early for doctor appointments or even to take care of my kitten!

What benefit has helped you the most?

The benefit that has helped me the most is honestly the dental and vision insurance. I was dropped from my parents insurance when I turned 21 and… well… my genetics didn’t do me any favors in the dental and vision departments!

How have you used some of your 24 paid days off this year?

I took an 11-day trip to the Smoky Mountains with my boyfriend and a long weekend beach trip with a group of friends right after!

I was very excited that I had saved up enough time for the whole trip even after already using a sick day and only working at Well-Paid Maids for about eight months. When I asked my manager about it, she immediately insisted that I take the time off!

How would you describe Well-Paid Maids in 3 words?

Supportive, efficient and reliable.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Something I don’t think should be overlooked is how Well-Paid Maids cares for the health of their employees, clients and the planet. They use all eco-friendly products, which I love because I don’t want to be breathing in all the chemicals of other cleaning products, and it’s especially great for clients with young kids!

Thank you, Hannah! It was wonderful getting to know you!

If you want to book a cleaning with Well-Paid Maids, schedule online! You can also request Hannah as your cleaner!

Adams Morgan Fall PorchFest Returns November 4 with 100 Bands, 20 Locations, and a Road Closure

By PoP Sponsor (a)

Due to forecasted weather conditions and the safety of staff, porch hosts, bands, volunteers, sponsors, and attendees, the Adams Morgan Partnership BID has rescheduled Adams Morgan Fall PorchFest (originally scheduled for this Saturday, October 14). Steady rain, wind gusts, and general unpredictable conditions do not make for a great outdoor event. It is never an easy decision, but after weighing all of the factors and the data at hand, it’s the best decision for all involved.

The new event date will be Saturday, November 4 from 2-6 p.m. The Adams Morgan Pedestrian Zone (road closure on 18th Street NW between Columbia and Kalorama Roads NW) will also take place this day. The Adams Morgan Partnership BID is working to reschedule porch host locations, bands, and main stage performances and will update the performance lineup on AdMoPorchFest.com in the coming days.

With approximately 100 bands, this event will showcase some of D.C.’s best local musical talent featuring nearly every musical genre, including classic rock, funk, go-go, rap, reggae, blue grass, classical, and pop. More than 20 porches, business patios, parks, and the closed 18th Street will become stages for the day, drawing music-lovers from around the region into the tree-lined streets and small businesses of Adams Morgan.

And for the first time during PorchFest, 18th Street NW (between Columbia and Kalorama Roads NW) will be closed to vehicular traffic creating additional safe space for people, performances, and fun! This road closure is part of an ongoing initiative, the Adams Morgan Pedestrian Zone funded by the DC Office of Planning’s Streets for People grant program.

Event patrons can pick up a music map and wristband at two different event headquarters locations. The first location is in the plaza in front of Truist Bank at the corner of Columbia and Adams Mill Roads NW. The second location is in front of 2424 18th Street NW inside the road closure. Event wristbands are FREE and provide attendees with dozens of discounts at various Adams Morgan businesses. After picking up a wristband and event map, guests can stroll through the neighborhood for nonstop musical performances from 2-6 p.m., enjoy lunch, dinner, or drinks at a neighborhood hangout, and shop for unique gifts at local boutiques. 

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How Does Valet Car Care Work Anyway? FAQ’s From Start-Up Roda

By PoP Sponsor (a)

Whether it’s T. Swift tickets, cash money, or a prime parking spot, most DMV-area residents agree that time is actually their most valuable currency. A universal experience of car owners is waiting in a frigid lobby for hours on their car — even for basic maintenance.

Roda, formerly known as CarCare To Go, located their flagship service center in Rockville, Maryland to solve this problem. With a team of trusted valets, they offer free pick-up and return of your car. This is how it works, but first-time clients often include already baked-in requests when they book their first appointment.

Questions like:

  • “Can you text me when you arrive?” Communication is first and foremost in the valet car care world. Customers receive booking confirmations both via email and by text, including tracking service when a valet is dispatched to pick-up (and return locations.)
  • “How much? This sounds expensive.” There is no mark-up or charge for valet, even if you decline services. Unlike traditional service centers, Roda offers flat pricing on basics like oil changes (sedan or SUV,) with complete digital estimates and line-by-line approval of all costs before the work is done.
  • “Do I have to stay at the same location for pick-up and return?” No! Pick-up and return locations can be different. Getting work done at home in the morning, then running errands that afternoon in another part of town? All you have to do is say so. Valet service means they meet you where you are.

Recently covered in AdAge, Roda is changing the way people think about car care — putting trust, transparency, and time at the center of what they offer.

Got more questions? Ask the team in person this weekend (Saturday, October 1) at Pike & Rose in Bethesda, and win some exclusive prizes and event-specific discounts at Piketoberfest.

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DC Open House List for This Weekend

By PoP Sponsor (a)

Another week with a massive list of 400+ DC Open Houses. While many are in the $800k+ range, there’s still a decent variety of everything from studio units to detached homes. Take a look at our favorite open houses below and to see the complete Open House List, click here.

  • 217 R Street NW — $1,000,000 — Bloomingdale
    Open Sat. 2-4 p.m. & Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Jordan Parker
    “Located in the heart of the action, we invite you to view 217 R Street NW. This beautiful home features 3-bedrooms, 2-bathrooms, with an English basement located in the well sought-out neighborhood of Bloomingdale. This beautiful home features the perfect blend of historic charm and modern amenities. This property features a separately entranced English Basement perfect for tenants or AirBnB, original bricked-front, sun-drenched rooms, gleaming hardwood floors, an open main level floor-plan and a full-sized kitchen in the English Basement. Nestled just less than a 2-minute walk from the 90 & 92 Metro Bus stop and 20 minute walk to U Street/African-American Civil War Memorial/Cardozo Metro Station this property is a commuters dream! Explore the lively bars along U Street & 14th street and enjoy the Sunday Farmers market just one block away. Don’t miss this opportunity to make this charming row home your own!”
  • 1451 S Carolina Ave SE — $925,000 — Hill East
    Open Sat. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. — James Thomley
    “Charming 2 Bedroom, 1.5 Bath Home with Enchanting Backyard Retreat in Capitol Hill: Nestled in the heart of Capitol Hill, this delightful 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath home seamlessly blends classic charm with modern comforts.”
  • 1417 Leegate Road NW — $1,199,000 — Shepherd Park
    Open Sat. & Sun. 1-4 p.m. — Andrew Essreg
    “SPECTACULAR SHEPHERD PARK DETACHED HOME ON GORGEOUS LANDSCAPED LOT NEAR ROCK CREEK NATIONAL PARK. Don’t miss this truly special opportunity to become the new owners of this stylish + functional 1951 brick home that spans 3 well configured levels. And while pictures say a thousand words, the many unique spaces of this property show even better in person, and are certainly worth your time to visit.”
  • 1032 5th Street NE #2 — $975,000 — NoMa
    Open Sat. 12-2 p.m. — Molly Branson & Jocelyn Vas
    $25k PRICE REDUCTION: “A stunning two-unit row home in the heart of the H Street Corridor has arrived! This amazing first floor unit exudes modern design and quality craftsmanship throughout. Featuring three bedrooms, two full baths and one-half bath and an expansive living room and dining room, this condominium is not to be missed.”
  • 1201 Q Street NW #401 — $799,000 — Logan Circle
    Open Sat. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. & Sun. 3-5 p.m. — Monique Van Blaricom
    “Introducing The Leumass, where unit #401 awaits — a truly unique 2-level turret property boasting open views and an expansive private rooftop deck. Upon entry, bask in an abundance of natural light and stunning hardwood floors. Two bedrooms flank the main hallway, while further in, discover the in-unit washer and dryer, along with a full bathroom.The unit then unfolds into a spacious open-concept kitchen, living, and dining area — perfect for entertaining.”
  • 523 10th Street SE — $1,150,000 — Hill East
    Open Sat. 1-3 p.m. — Kevin Wood
    BACK ON THE MARKET: “This charming historic gem, dating back to 1847, is a true masterpiece in the heart of Washington, D.C.’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. Nestled at 523 10th St SE, this exquisite residence seamlessly blends classic elegance with modern convenience. Boasting an unbeatable location just steps away from Eastern Market Metro, this home offers easy access to all that the nation’s capital has to offer.”
  • 4106 46th Street NW — $1,999,999 — American University Park
    Open Sat. 12-2 p.m. — Debi Fox
    “Classic meets Contemporary in this Striking and Innovative Design. “The Panda House” A total renovation, including Interior Structure and all Utilities, Plus an Addition. An Architects’ Tree House surrounded by trees and wildlife! On one of the best lots in American University Park. The Contemporary, rear addition to the house includes an all glass facade and outdoor linear deck with glass railing that looks out onto a tree scape, overlooking the private backyard.”
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