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Legal Insider: Representing Government Contractors Before the NSA in Security Clearance Cases

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 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.

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Ready to Find Out Who’s Kushing on You?

By PoP Sponsor (a)

Join MONKO + DC Fray for Date n’ Bake — our 420-friendly speed dating event — on Friday, September 15 at 7 p.m. at MONKO Weed Dispensary!

Enjoy mocktails, snacks and even get some gifts to burn on your official first date.

Real Estate Fresh Finds: September 6

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: 4705 4th Street NW

PRETTY IN PETWORTH! On a charming, tree-lined block of Petworth, 4705 Fourth Street NW welcomes you. From the breezy front porch to the fenced rear deck, warm wood floors to sublime skylights, 4705 wraps you in a blanket of beauty. The exposed brick, ground-floor tray ceiling, and vaulted primary simply add to the wonder. The whimsical rear yard is great for entertaining, while the porch offers a perfect perch for a morning cup of coffee. The lower level is a great space for home theater, gym, or even as a massive standalone suite. Moving from the pretty to the practical, consider the oversized high-end Bosch refrigerator, oversized washer/dryer, secure parking pad, and newer plumbing and windows — for starters. Inside and out, you’ll find steps and surfaces all recently refinished. Looking just beyond, enjoy a neighborhood dotted with parks, and being less than a mile to Metro. 4705 Fourth Street NW not only welcomes you, it embraces you.

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 7 BR/5.5 BA detached home in Cleveland Park with 6,100 total sq. ft. spread across 4 levels on a nearly ¾ acre lot and features 3 fireplaces, sunroom, library, large front porch, rear terrace and a swimming pool with an automatic cover — all for $4.9M.
  • “This immaculate 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home features the perfect taste of simplicity and comfort making it the perfect home to host your many gatherings! The two-level floor plan is flooded with natural light throughout.”
  • Check out this “INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY! Only access to property will be two open houses — Wednesday, September 6 from 4-6 p.m. and Saturday, September 9 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Offers due Monday by 12 p.m. House has great bones, but needs full renovation.”
  • Your Auction Property of the Week is a “recently renovated [5 BR/4 BA] spacious end unit townhome currently set up as a duplex” in Columbia Heights with bidding beginning on Sept. 16th.

Well-Paid Maids Has Paid $2.5M in Living Wages — Plus Other Insider Stats

By PoP Sponsor (a)

Last week was the first week back to school for many D.C. kids. To celebrate, we thought we’d share a math lesson.

Kidding! We simply wanted to share some data that highlights the impact Well-Paid Maids has made in the past 6 years.

Take a look (no math required):

  • 35 employees get paid a…
  • $23/hour starting wage with…
  • 24 paid days off per year and…
  • 100% paid commuting costs.
  • Well-Paid Maids has paid $2.5 million in living wages to date.
  • 19,000 cleanings have been completed for…
  • 5,000 customers, who have left… 
  • 250+ reviews with a nearly…
  • 5-star average.

Book your cleaning.

DC Open House List for This Weekend

By PoP Sponsor (a)

Labor Day weekend is always the last slowdown of the year before the holiday season commences. There are only 150 open houses scheduled across the District this weekend, but we can assure you that next weekend will likely see more than double that number with all of the coming soon listings we’ve seen. Check out our favorite open houses below and to see the complete Open House List, click here.

  • 2410 17th Street NW #303 — $855,000 — Adams Morgan
    Open Sat. 1-3:30 p.m. — Cam Griffith & Anthony Mokabber
    “One of the most exclusive and modern penthouses in Adams Morgan! Indulge in stunning views of the Washington Monument from your private 400 sq. ft. terrace, complemented by an additional balcony on the lower level. The lofted main suite comes with a walk in closet, elegant bathroom and panoramic windows and sliding privacy panels. The lower level offers a private flex space which could double as a study, or additional bedroom. This penthouse features high ceilings, a two-story window for a sun-soaked ambiance, a custom kitchen with European cabinets and stainless steel appliances. This property offers low condo fees, in-unit laundry, an assigned garage parking pace, and a secured bike storage room. The property’s prime location offers impressive convenience, with just a few steps separating you from Harris Teeter, the eclectic dining scene of Adams Morgan, and minutes to the National Mall. In addition, proximity to three metro stops, numerous bus stops, and a variety of parks enhances its desirability. With a remarkable 95 Walk Score, this penthouse presents an exceptional opportunity for those seeking an urban lifestyle in a perfect location.”
  • 1801 Otis Street NE #3 — $410,000 — Woodridge
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Abiola Haastrup-Akintunde
    “Welcome to a captivating two-bedroom, one-bath condominium in a boutique condo building in Woodridge, NE, D.C. An inviting hallway adorned with subway tile, crown molding, and a grand skylight sets the stage for this sunlit haven. Natural light fills every corner of this unit, complementing the keyless entry, hardwood floors, and high-end stainless steel appliances.”
  • 1495 Newton Street NW #101 — $394,999 — Columbia Heights
    Open Sun. 12-3 p.m. — Kevin Wood
    “This spacious one-bedroom unit offers a truly luxurious living experience with its large and inviting kitchen, featuring new high-end appliances. Gleaming hardwood floors lead the way into the open-concept living area, where the recessed lights create an inviting ambiance for relaxing and entertaining alike.”
  • 2429 Skyland Place SE — $560,000 — Randle Heights
    Open Sat. 1-3 p.m. — Lorielle Akintunde
    “This immaculate 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home features the perfect taste of simplicity and comfort making it the perfect home to host your many gatherings! The two-level floor plan is flooded with natural light throughout. The main level was renovated in 2021.”
  • 7058 Eastern Ave NW #210 — $264,750 — Takoma
    Open Sat. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. — Peter Paglio
    BACK ON THE MARKET: “Experience convenient city living at its best in this charming two bedroom, one bathroom home located just a block away from Takoma Metro! Enjoy the spacious and light-filled living space renovated in July, complete with a private balcony offering beautiful views of the gazebo and Cady-Lee Mansion.”
  • 919 5th Street SE — $899,000 — Navy Yard
    Open Sat. 2-4 p.m. & Sun. 12-2 p.m. — Mark Bertini
    “This Fantastic 2 bed 2.5 bath home with a new Kitchen and first floor Laundry has a Front Porch and Rear Patio along with a 2nd story deck out back off the second bedroom ! New HVAC, New roof, New Half Bath on the first floor. New full bath off of the Primary bedroom.”

Chacho Wins Two City Paper ‘Best Of’ Titles: Best Distillery & Best Marg!

By PoP Sponsor (a)
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The votes are in and the winner is… Chacho!

The Manor Park-based Chacho Bar and Distillery brought home the gold in not one, but two titles in this year’s Washington City Paper “Best of DC” competition, which saw thousands of readers voting on dozens of venues and cocktails. The two-year-old distillery, located at 6031 Kansas Avenue NW, won for Best Distillery AND Best Margarita in the Readers’ Picks competition.

Which only makes sense: The distillery crafts on the premises the fiery Chacho Jalapeño Aguardiente that is the key ingredient in the distinctive, award-winning Chacho-rita.

“We pour our heart and soul into every bottle, and this recognition fuels our fire to keep going,” the distillery said in a statement. “Thank you for showing the love!”

You can also show the love in person, as a celebration is planned for Saturday, September 9th at Chacho’s Distillery, which was also called “one of DC’s Best Hidden Gems” by Washingtonian Magazine this summer. Check for updates on their website and Instagram.

For those new to the Chacho brand, Chacho is distilled from pure South American cane sugar and infused with natural jalapeño flavors, giving it a smooth yet fiery finish. It is inspired by the South American spirit “aguardiente,” but Chacho’s uniquely spicy finish tastes unlike anything you’ve had before. Get your own bottle in person at their tasting room, online, or at your local liquor store

As for the name “Chacho,” it’s the name of the llama that the distillery founder rode through the streets of Bogota on the trip that inspired it all.

Rental of the Day: 64 H Street SW #PH1

By PoP Sponsor (a)
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Address: 64 H Street SW # PH1
Neighborhood: Navy Yard/Southwest Waterfront
Type: 2 BR, 2 BA apartment — 1,033 sq. ft.
Rent: $8,400/mo

Noteworthy: Luxury Penthouse Available Now | Private Terrace With Breathtaking D.C. Views

Live Artfully in this breathtaking penthouse apartment at GALLERY 64, D.C.’s newest and only arts-forward apartment community with a private courtyard connecting to the world-class Rubell Museum DC.

This two-bedroom, two-bathroom penthouse features a 630 sq. foot expansive wrap-around private terrace with direct views of the Capitol building, top-of-the-line finishes, built-in wine fridge, floor to ceiling windows, plank flooring throughout, double vanity sink, ample cabinet and closet space, reserved parking, and easy access to the boast worthy penthouse level amenities which include a rooftop pool deck and outdoor terrace with private alcoves for dining and entertaining.

Schedule a tour today of this stunning penthouse residence at Gallery 64. Available for an immediate move-in.

Rental contact:
Gallery 64 Leasing Team
[email protected]
(855) 586-2143

Shifting Gears: Demystifying the Transmission

By PoP Sponsor (a)

You’re taking a leisurely Sunday drive, cruising down the open road. Suddenly, you feel a slight jerk, and your car struggles to accelerate. What just happened? It’s time we demystify an often-overlooked component of our vehicles: the transmission.

Before your “check engine light” comes on, it can be handy to know what one of the common causes may be. At its core, the transmission is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels, allowing you to shift gears and control your car’s speed. Think of it as an intricate networking system that ensures your vehicle runs smoothly while maximizing efficiency.

The transmission performs two primary functions: gear shifting and torque conversion. Gear shifting allows us to vary the speed and power output of our vehicle, whether we need to accelerate swiftly on the highway or navigate city streets. Torque conversion, on the other hand, helps match the engine power to the load placed on the wheels, ensuring the smooth operation of the car.

There are two types of transmissions commonly found in vehicles today: manual and automatic. Manual transmissions, often associated with a more engaging driving experience, require the driver to manually shift gears using a clutch pedal. This allows for precise control of the RPM (revolutions per minute) and power delivery. On the other hand, automatic transmissions take the guesswork out of gear shifting by automatically selecting the appropriate gear based on factors such as speed, acceleration, and road conditions.

One advantage of an automatic transmission is that it allows for seamless gear shifting, ensuring that your engine operates at the optimal RPM range for maximum efficiency. However, if you prefer a more hands-on approach and enjoy the art of shifting gears, a manual transmission might be preferable. It adds an extra level of control and engagement, giving you a sense of connection with your vehicle.

CarCare To Go is dedicated to giving you the repair advice we’d give our own families, but also helping you learn more about the everyday workings of your vehicle. Call 202-980-1480 with any questions or to book service any time you have a concern about your vehicle. Save up to $150 when you book before Labor Day using code BACK23!

Real Estate Fresh Finds: August 30

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: 1322 Kenyon Street NW #2

“The ideal city home awaits its next fortunate owner! Unit #2 lives like a house — located on the main level of a converted, grand bayfront house — you enter well above street level as if in a private residence. Immediately upon entering you’ll notice the light streaming in from the bay window bathing the open plan with natural light. Crown molding and solid oak hardwood flooring are found throughout the entire home, along with wifi lights. A wall of built-in shelves surrounds the gas fireplace and is the focal point of the living room. The dining area is adjacent to a high-end kitchen which features a grand peninsula, stone counters, stainless appliances, gas cooking and even a window for more natural light. A powder room for guests is discretely tucked in a corner. This is a rare and desirable feature in a condo because it keeps the other bathrooms private. The over-sized primary bedroom suite provides ample space for a king-sized bed and additional furniture. It has double-closets with upgraded storage, and a stone en-suite limestone bathroom with whirlpool tub. The floors in the bathrooms were sanded and polished to maintain their beauty and longevity. Just off the bedroom is a large, private deck with southern exposure. Just down the hall is the second, generously proportioned bedroom suite with double windows, large closet and en-suite limestone bathroom. This ideal residence comes with separately deeded parking, in-unit washer/dryer and individually controlled central air conditioning and heat. The condominium is pet-friendly including large dogs up to 100lbs. All this and only a block from the Columbia Heights Metro and the DC USA complex, the largest retail development in D.C. DC USA includes the newly opened Lidl, Target and other restaurants and shops. parks and theaters. Plus, you’re just minutes to downtown.”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 5 BR/5.5 BA Craftsman built in 2018 features 6k+ total square feet across 4 levels and boasts a 2-car garage, luxury kitchen with high-end finishes and appliances, large owner’s suite, 3 total fireplaces and 2 tiers of balconies, one of which has an outdoor fireplace — all for $3.25M.
  • BACK ON THE MARKET: “Experience convenient city living at its best in this charming two bedroom, one bathroom home located just a block away from Takoma Metro! Enjoy the spacious and light-filled living space renovated in July, complete with a private balcony offering beautiful views of the gazebo and Cady-Lee Mansion.”
  • “This fantastic 2 bed 2.5 bath [end-unit Navy Yard] home with a new kitchen and first floor laundry has a front porch and rear patio along with a 2nd story deck out back off the second bedroom.”
  • Your REO/Bank-Owned Property of the Week is a 5 BR/3 BA detached bungalow on a large lot in Woodridge but will need lots of work to make it a home again.

Out of Office: Well-Paid Maids Adds a New Paid Holiday

By PoP Sponsor (a)
Photo via Caleb Fisher/Unsplash

At Well-Paid Maids, we are committed to paying our cleaners, who are W-2 employees, a living wage and providing them comprehensive benefits.

This isn’t a one-and-done effort, though. We continually work hard to ensure our employees are treated fairly. For example, when we started the company in 2017, we paid cleaners a starting wage of $16 an hour. Now? We pay them at least $23 an hour.

And here’s another example: We just added a new paid holiday to our calendar, Labor Day! That means cleaners now get four paid holidays a year — in addition to 20 paid days off per year.

So as our cleaners take the day off to relax this Labor Day, we want to send them a big ‘thank you’ for everything they do. Feel free to do the same down in the comments — and be sure to show your support by booking your next cleaning.

Happy Labor Day, D.C. Enjoy!

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