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Legal Insider: The EEO complaint process for federal employees

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

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.

We represent federal employees in the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) complaint process before their federal agencies.

This article briefly describes how the EEO complaint process works for federal employees. Keep in mind that each federal agency is different but essentially follows the same rules. These rules can be found at the EEOC website in MD-110. It is important to get legal advice before filing an EEO complaint.

Reasons for EEO Complaints

Complaints of discrimination may be filed by federal employees or applicants for employment with a federal agency when they believe that they have been discriminated against in the workplace because of:

  • race
  • color
  • religion (including reasonable accommodation of religious beliefs or practices)
  • national origin (ancestry, ethnicity, accent, and/or use of a language other than English)
  • physical/mental disability (including reasonable accommodation requests)
  • sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation, abortion, and related medical conditions)
  • sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression
  • age (40 and above)
  • parental status
  • retaliation for prior protected EEO activity (one of the most common complaints)
  • genetic information

Pre-complaint EEO Process

A federal employee seeking to file an EEO complaint must first contact an EEO counselor within 45 calendar days of the alleged discrimination or within 45 calendar days of the effective date of action.

EEO Counseling Process

When contacted by a federal employee, the assigned EEO Counselor will explain the EEO complaint process and provide a federal employee their rights and responsibilities. The federal employee may choose, at the time of initial contact, to attempt to settle the complaint through the alternative dispute resolution (ADR) process.

Formal Complaint Process

If the EEO complaint is not resolved through ADR or at the counseling stage, a federal employee may file a written formal complaint within 15 calendar days of receiving a document referred to as the Notice of the Right to file a Discrimination Complaint.

Acceptance or Dismissal

If a complaint is accepted by the agency (the majority of timely complaints are accepted for investigation) an investigator will be assigned by the federal agency to conduct an impartial investigation of the alleged discrimination claims. An investigator is able to administer oaths to obtain testimony from relevant witnesses and relevant documents.

Investigations and Report of Investigation

An EEO investigator will compile a Report of Investigation (ROI) containing relevant testimony and documentary evidence about the claims of discrimination but does not make any findings in a case. Typically, a federal agency is required to complete an investigation within 180 calendar days of receipt of the formal complaint, with possible extensions available.

Within 30 calendar days of receipt of the ROI, a federal employee can choose to (1) request a hearing by an EEOC judge (typically recommended); or (2) an agency decision on the complaint (usually not recommended). Other options exist based on the timing of the investigation.

Final Agency Decision

If a federal employee requests a final agency decision (FAD), the agency will issue a decision based on the information in the ROI. This process is not usually recommended because federal agencies rarely find themselves guilty of discrimination. If a federal employee is not satisfied with the FAD, they can appeal further to the EEOC or go to federal court.

EEOC Hearing

The EEOC hearing process is typically the best process for federal employees and usually must be requested within 30 calendar days of receipt of the ROI. The EEOC hearing process is similar to a civil trial and can include document requests and depositions. Legal representation is critical for the hearing process. After a hearing, the judge will issue a decision, either finding for the federal employee or agency. Such decisions can also be appealed.

Contact Us

If you are a federal employee and in need of legal representation or advice, please contact our office at 703-668-0070 or through our contact page to schedule a consultation.

Statutes of Liberty: Dear lawyers and law students — we’re hiring!

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

This sponsored column is by Law Office of James Montana PLLC. All questions about it should be directed to James Montana, Esq., Doran Shemin, Esq., and Janice Chen, Esq., practicing attorneys at The Law Office of James Montana PLLC, an immigration-focused law firm located in Falls Church, Virginia. The legal information given here is general in nature. If you want legal advice, contact us for an appointment.

Our little law office is hiring for two positions: Attorney and Legal Intern (Fall Semester). The details and tips on how to apply are below, in Q&A style.

This could be you. Apply now!

Q: Hiring, eh? How much cash on the barrel?

A: Depends on the position. The Attorney position comes with a starting salary of $69,300, with a small bonus at the end of the year. The Legal Intern position is paid hourly, and the amount depends on your background. (Certain local law schools won’t give you class credit if we pay you. We prefer to pay you, but we can forgo paying you if that’s what you need.)

Q: What? I thought that lawyers dove into piles of gold coins all day, like Scrooge McDuck!

A: It depends. On Wall Street, we are reliably informed that big law firm partners can make more than $15,000,000 per year — more than the bankers who pay them! Immigration lawyers are much more modestly compensated.

Q: Why should I work for you? The salary is competitive with local nonprofits, and many local for-profits pay more.

A: I’m glad you asked. Here are the reasons to work here, one paragraph at a time.

Generous Benefits

We offer extremely generous benefits — better than every local nonprofit, including paid parental leave, 70% of health insurance/vision/dental covered from your first day on, FSA, retirement plan with a generous match — you name it, we offer it!

Easy Commute

Commuting into D.C. is for masochists. Working here isn’t. Our beautiful old office, built in 1870, is in the heart of Falls Church. We have plenty of free parking and a verdant, wooded landscape around our building.

Helping People in Need

Our clients come from all walks of life. Some come from vulnerable circumstances. You’ll work with them, and you’ll make a huge difference for them.

Collegial Environment

We pride ourselves on not running a high-volume operation. You won’t be forced to take cases. Instead, you’ll evaluate cases on your own, and build your own docket within the firm based on your own capacity and interests. We offer both independence and mentorship for new lawyers.

Q: Do you offer Work from Home?

A: No. Why? Because, as noted, we work with many people who come from vulnerable circumstances. These clients are best served by meeting with you in person. We are unwilling to compromise on this point, because, shorn of the verbiage, WFH means telling poor people to go pound sand.

Q: You don’t sound fun.

A: We are so, so fun. We do go-karting! We build furniture! We make fun of Elon Musk!

Don’t do drugs, kids.

Q: How do I apply?

A: Email James at [email protected]. Send a CV and a cover letter.

Q: What are the requirements for each position?

A: For Attorney, we require a bar license and a JD. We’re happy to hire new lawyers. Spanish fluency is a big plus. Immigration experience is, of course, a plus too.

A(2): For Legal Intern, we require that you be enrolled at a local law school. That’s it! We’re here to help with your education and pay you a decent wage.

Questions about the jobs? Ask in the comments. We’ll respond, just like we always do.

Just Reduced Properties in Arlington

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

Each week, “Just Reduced” spotlights properties in Arlington County whose price have been cut over the previous week. The market summary is crafted by Arlington Realty, Inc. Maximize your real estate investment with the team by visiting www.arlingtonrealtyinc.com or calling 703-836-6000 today!

Please note: While Arlington Realty, Inc. provides this information for the community, it may not be the listing company of these homes.

As of July 3, there are 131 detached homes, 20 townhouses and 131 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 19 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:

709 N. Florida Street

Please note that this is solely a selection of Just Reduced properties available in Arlington County. For a complete list of properties within your target budget and specifications, contact Arlington Realty, Inc.

LadyBug Academy: Now enrolling for fall 2023 in Arlington!

By ARLnow.com Sponsor
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Looking for a reliable childcare in Arlington?

LadyBug Academy — a full-day preschool and daycare opened its new facility at 2500 Wilson Blvd, Suite 100B in Arlington!

LadyBug Academy still has spots available for the upcoming fall 2023 registration.

As a preschool that specializes in providing early childhood education to young children, ages 6 weeks to 5 years old, LadyBug Academy utilizes the Reggio Emilia approach, which emphasizes children’s innate curiosity, creativity and ability to generate powerful ideas.

The teachers are dedicated to fostering a collaborative and hands-on learning environment, where children can actively participate in the learning process, and develop their own understanding of the world around them.

The new Arlington facility has a capacity of 67 children, with onsite parking, and an outdoor playground — becoming an attractive, reliable option for childcare in the surrounding community.

LadyBug Academy started as a small, in-home daycare in North Arlington. Since its inception, Aleksandra Razavi, the owner and founder, has maintained her commitment to providing an enriching and diverse learning environment for children in the Arlington and Merrifield communities. Ten years later, following a tremendous success in Merrifield, LadyBug Academy is accepting enrollment for its third location in Arlington Courthouse.

Make your appointment today and schedule a tour!

Small Business Focus: Emmanuela Cosmetics

By ARLnow.com Sponsor
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This column is sponsored by BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.

By Alex Held

Emmanuela Cosmetics, an Arlington-based skincare brand, is on a mission to empower women to embrace their natural beauty with confidence.

Founded in July 2020 by Yvonne Tazem, this luxury, inclusive skincare brand has been making waves in the industry by providing effective skincare solutions and celebrating beauty in all its forms.

At Emmanuela Cosmetics, the focus goes beyond achieving a flawless complexion. “We understand that skin issues, such as hyperpigmentation, can significantly impact self-esteem,” says Tazem. With this understanding, they have created a range of high-quality, gentle, and effective products that help women feel beautiful and radiant in their own skin.

One of the proudest moments for Emmanuela Cosmetics came in December 2021 when its Glow serum was featured as the #1 product in Vogue Magazine. “Being recognized in Vogue not only showcased the brand’s commitment to excellence but also opened doors to new opportunities,” says Tazem.

As part of those companies, Tazam was looking to expand, and to do so, she partnered with BizLaunch. “BizLaunch played a crucial role in refining Emmanuela Cosmetics’ rebranding efforts. This partnership helped the brand solidify its identity and reach a wider audience,” says Tazem.

Choosing Arlington as the location for her business was a strategic decision for Emmanuela Cosmetics. The vibrant and supportive community, along with the ample resources available for business owners, made it an ideal place to establish their brand. “I particularly appreciate the tight-knit small business community and the unwavering support from local residents,” says Tazem.

However, like any other business, Emmanuela Cosmetics faces challenges. The high cost of commercial rent in Arlington can be a hurdle, but Tazem’s dedication and commitment has allowed her company to overcome such obstacles.

What sets Emmanuela Cosmetics apart from other skincare brands is its commitment to using only the finest ingredients. All products are 100% vegan, cruelty-free and made with non-toxic ingredients. “We take pride in creating a community of women who support and uplift each other, celebrating beauty in all its forms,” says Tazem.

“When not revolutionizing the skincare industry, I enjoy exploring Arlington’s diverse culinary scene. It’s my way to relax and draw inspiration from the vibrant local culture,” says Tazem.

Emmanuela Cosmetics continues to thrive as a small business in Arlington, empowering women to embrace their natural beauty. With effective skincare solutions and a commitment to inclusivity, it is leaving a lasting impact on the industry and helping women feel confident in their own skin.

For more information about Emmanuela Cosmetics visit www.emmanuelacosmetics.com or follow them on Instagram.

Ask Eli: Best Arlington condos for DC Fourth of July fireworks

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

This regularly scheduled sponsored Q&A column is written by Eli Tucker, Arlington-based Realtor and Arlington resident. Please submit your questions to him via email for response in future columns. Video summaries of some articles can be found on YouTube on the Eli Residential channel. Enjoy!

One of my favorite things about the Arlington condo market is the remarkable views that some of the buildings have of D.C. and the National Mall!

Some of the best Fourth of July fireworks in the country take place on the National Mall and what better place to view them than from your very own Arlington condo!

Today, Jean Ropp, Arlington real estate agent with Eli Residential Group, toured 4 Arlington condo buildings to check out their views of the D.C. Skyline:

  1. Prospect House, 1200 N. Nash Street, was built in 1966 and is located just steps from the Iwo Jima Memorial. The building is best known for its views of the Washington Monument and D.C. skyline.
  2. The Pierce, 1781 N. Pierce Street, completed in 2021, it is Arlington’s newest building for sale. This high-end, luxury building has an average sale price of ~$1.8M and $1,000 per square foot. Part of the price tag comes from the impressive views of D.C. from many of the units, the rooftop terrace and the rooftop pool.
  3. The Odyssey, 2001 15th Street N., built in 2006, is located in the Courthouse neighborhood. This building’s great reputation and excellent amenities make it an Arlington favorite. The views from the rooftop pool and top floor gym are exquisite.
  4. The Waterview, 1111 19th Street N., built in Rosslyn in 2008, is unique because floors 1-15 are a hotel and floors 16-31 are condo residences. The Waterview has its name for a reason! The views of the Potomac River and Washington, D.C. are unmatched.

There are other buildings in Arlington that offer superb views not mentioned here including 2000 Clarendon and Clarendon 1021.

Let us know in the comments below which of these buildings you’d like to watch the D.C. Fourth of July fireworks from! If you’d like to tour any of these buildings, you can contact Jean at [email protected].

If you’d like to discuss buying, selling, investing, or renting, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at [email protected].

If you’d like a question answered in my weekly column or to discuss buying, selling, renting, or investing, please send an email to [email protected]. To read any of my older posts, visit the blog section of my website at EliResidential.com. Call me directly at (703) 539-2529.

Video summaries of some articles can be found on YouTube on the Eli Residential channel.

Eli Tucker is a licensed Realtor in Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland with RLAH Real Estate, 4040 N Fairfax Dr #10C A

Woloszyn’s Insights: Home renovations

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

This is a sponsored column by Joseph Woloszyn Esq. of Maximo Mortgages LLC. Have a question or comment? Contact Joseph at [email protected].

Home renovations represent a significant investment of time, energy, and financial resources, but they also offer many rewards.

They can enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your home, boost its value, and reflect your personal style. As varied and expansive as the types of houses themselves, renovations can range from small-scale updates like painting and redecorating, to larger, more complex projects like kitchen remodels, room additions, or even full-house overhauls.

Planning

The key to a successful renovation is thorough planning. Before you swing the hammer, you should have a clear understanding of what you want to accomplish. Will you focus on enhancing functionality, updating aesthetics, or increasing the home’s resale value? Establishing a goal-oriented renovation strategy can help guide your project’s direction and measure its success. During this stage, it’s beneficial to create a budget, bearing in mind the costs of materials, labor, and any unforeseen expenses that may arise.

Design and Inspiration

Once your goals and budget are in place, the next step is to work on the design. This process can be as simple as choosing paint colors and fixtures, or as complex as drawing up architectural plans for an addition or layout change. It’s useful to gather inspiration from home renovation shows, interior design magazines, and online platforms like Pinterest and Instagram.

Hiring Professionals

Depending on the scale of the project, you might need to hire professionals. While DIY has its charms and can save money, certain tasks — like electrical work, plumbing, and structural changes — are best left to the experts. Professionals such as contractors, architects, and designers can ensure the job is done correctly and up to code, providing peace of mind. Remember to ask for references, verify licenses, and get quotes from multiple sources before deciding who to hire.

Timeline and Logistics

Larger-scale renovations may disrupt your daily life, so it’s important to develop a timeline and plan logistics. If you’re renovating your kitchen or bathroom, how will you manage during the construction period? Will you need to move out temporarily during a major overhaul? Planning for these disruptions can reduce stress and keep your project running smoothly.

Permits and Regulations

It’s crucial to know if your renovation project requires any permits from your local government. This is especially true for projects that involve changes to the home’s structure, plumbing, or electrical systems. Non-compliance can result in hefty fines, delays, and even forced reversal of the work, so it’s best to research and apply for necessary permits before starting.

Materials and Sustainability

When selecting materials, consider their durability and maintenance requirements. You might be drawn to the beauty of marble countertops, but they can be high maintenance and prone to staining. It’s also a good idea to consider the environmental impact of your renovation. Using sustainable materials and energy-efficient appliances can reduce your carbon footprint and save on energy costs in the long run.

Completion and Evaluation

Once your project is complete, take time to evaluate the results against your original goals and expectations. If you planned well, you should be enjoying a space that not only looks better but also works better for your needs. Remember, the value in a home renovation lies not only in the increase in home value but also in improved quality of life.

Home renovations can be a rewarding experience, despite the potential for stress and unexpected issues. With careful planning, sensible decision-making, and a dose of patience, you can transform your home into a place that reflects your tastes, meets your needs, and possibly even increases your property’s value.

If you have any mortgage related questions or would like to inquiry about applying for a mortgage, please reach out to us at Maximo Mortgage LLC at [email protected] or 703-755-0045! Happy house hunting!

Joseph Woloszyn Esq. boasts a diverse professional background, including roles as a real estate attorney, mortgage broker, real estate broker, general contractor, and real estate investor. When he isn’t working, Joseph enjoys watching football and taking trips to unwind. In his personal life, he lovingly reports to his two superiors: his wife, Haimei, and their daughter, Elizabeth.

One day left to engage: Help shape Arlington’s Forestry and Natural Resource Plan today!

By ARLnow.com Sponsor
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Arlington County seeks feedback on the latest draft of the Forestry and Natural Resources Plan (FNRP).

Our urban forest and natural resources are vital to our well-being, and the FNRP addresses threats from climate change, urbanization, invasive species and more. The draft plan aims to reconnect nature to our daily lives, ensuring a healthy ecosystem for future generations.

Provide your input before the engagement closes on June 30!

Understanding the FNRP:
The FNRP is part of the County’s Comprehensive Plan and embraces holistic natural resource management. It involves the entire community, including government agencies,  developers, residents, and community organizations, in restoring and safeguarding our environment.

Four Strategic Directions:
The FNRP focuses on four interconnected Strategic Directions: Conservation, Climate Mitigation, Adaptation and Resilience, Biodiversity, and Operations. Each direction sets policy goals and actionable steps. By integrating guidance, habitat protection, conservation on private property, environmental justice, and community collaboration, the FNRP creates a plan for a thriving ecosystem accessible to all.

Taking Action Together:
The FNRP emphasizes collaboration, education, volunteerism, and incentives beyond traditional regulation. It recognizes the community’s role in implementing and sustaining the plan, making a positive impact on Arlington’s environment.

The Significance of Deer Management in Forest Health:
Effective deer management is essential for maintaining forest health in Arlington’s County-owned natural land parks. Recent surveys found an overabundance of deer. Without intervention, the overconsumption of plants by deer will harm the local ecosystem and wildlife, including the deer.

Learn more about the deer management project and join us on July 11 for a community meeting at Lubber Run Community Center, or provide feedback online until July 18.

Arts Focus: Family friendly Sunday morning performances at Lubber Run Amphitheater

By ARLnow.com Sponsor
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This column is sponsored by Arlington Arts/Arlington Cultural Affairs, a division of Arlington Economic Development.

The Free Summer Concert Series at Lubber Run Amphitheater are a summer tradition in Arlington, with some of our region’s hottest bands lighting up the night.

But on Sunday mornings, the Amphitheater offers performances specifically geared towards families and young audiences.

Munit and Z Luvbugs (July 2), an adorable family band born of time spent together during the pandemic, are the next to take the Sunday afternoon stage, led by Ethiopian-born jazz singer Munit Mesfin (with songs sung in English, Amharic and Spanish). Regional favorite Mr. Jon & Friends, (July 9) is a multiple Parent’s Choice Award winning ensemble.

An ongoing partnership between Arlington Arts and Arlington Public Library includes some special co-presentations of Sunday family performances, continuing with Soul in Motion Dancers and Drummers (July 16) who convey African history and culture through their dynamic performance. An infectious blend of Jazz, Funk and Go-Go are the mixture for the Summer’s final co-presentation (August 6) featuring the acclaimed Uncle Devin (August 8), a 2022 GRAMMY Nominee for “Best Children’s Music Album”.

All Sunday morning performances begin at 11 a.m. and last for about an hour. Lubber Run Amphitheater is located at N. Columbus Street and 2nd Street North, in the Arlington Forrest neighborhood. Click here for further info, directions, and a full schedule of all of the free concerts taking place through August 11 at Lubber Run Amphitheater.

Uncle Devin — Shake, Scrape & Strike.

Just Reduced Properties in Arlington

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

Each week, “Just Reduced” spotlights properties in Arlington County whose price have been cut over the previous week. The market summary is crafted by Arlington Realty, Inc. Maximize your real estate investment with the team by visiting www.arlingtonrealtyinc.com or calling 703-836-6000 today!

Please note: While Arlington Realty, Inc. provides this information for the community, it may not be the listing company of these homes.

As of June 26, there are 137 detached homes, 26 townhouses and 130 condos for sale throughout Arlington County. In total, 18 homes experienced a price reduction in the past week, including:

1814 N. Johnson Street

Please note that this is solely a selection of Just Reduced properties available in Arlington County. For a complete list of properties within your target budget and specifications, contact Arlington Realty, Inc.

Ask Eli: Best Arlington condos for DC Fourth of July fireworks

By ARLnow.com Sponsor

This regularly scheduled sponsored Q&A column is written by Eli Tucker, Arlington-based Realtor and Arlington resident. Please submit your questions to him via email for response in future columns. Video summaries of some articles can be found on YouTube on the Eli Residential channel. Enjoy!

One of my favorite things about the Arlington condo market is the remarkable views that some of the buildings have of D.C. and the National Mall!

Some of the best Fourth of July fireworks in the country take place on the National Mall and what better place to view them than from your very own Arlington condo!

Today, Jean Ropp, Arlington real estate agent with Eli Residential Group, toured 4 Arlington condo buildings to check out their views of the D.C. Skyline:

  1. Prospect House, 1200 N. Nash Street, was built in 1966 and is located just steps from the Iwo Jima Memorial. The building is best known for its views of the Washington Monument and D.C. skyline.
  2. The Pierce, 1781 N. Pierce Street, completed in 2021, it is Arlington’s newest building for sale. This high-end, luxury building has an average sale price of ~$1.8M and $1,000 per square foot. Part of the price tag comes from the impressive views of D.C. from many of the units, the rooftop terrace and the rooftop pool.
  3. The Odyssey, 2001 15th Street N., built in 2006, is located in the Courthouse neighborhood. This building’s great reputation and excellent amenities make it an Arlington favorite. The views from the rooftop pool and top floor gym are exquisite.
  4. The Waterview, 1111 19th Street N., built in Rosslyn in 2008, is unique because floors 1-15 are a hotel and floors 16-31 are condo residences. The Waterview has its name for a reason! The views of the Potomac River and Washington, D.C. are unmatched.

There are other buildings in Arlington that offer superb views not mentioned here including 2000 Clarendon and Clarendon 1021.

Let us know in the comments below which of these buildings you’d like to watch the D.C. Fourth of July fireworks from! If you’d like to tour any of these buildings, you can contact Jean at [email protected].

If you’d like to discuss buying, selling, investing, or renting, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at [email protected].

If you’d like a question answered in my weekly column or to discuss buying, selling, renting, or investing, please send an email to [email protected]. To read any of my older posts, visit the blog section of my website at EliResidential.com. Call me directly at (703) 539-2529.

Video summaries of some articles can be found on YouTube on the Eli Residential channel.

Eli Tucker is a licensed Realtor in Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland with RLAH Real Estate, 4040 N Fairfax Dr #10C A

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