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.
As many have heard, as of July 1, 2020, the new Virginia Human Rights Act began to provide new protections from discrimination for employees based on sexual orientation or gender identity. A lesser-known form of discrimination was also prohibited as of that date, which prohibits race discrimination based on hairstyle. Governor Northam signed the VHRA into law on March 4, 2020.
The Virginia legislature, in amending the VHRA, included a ban on discrimination “because of or on the basis of traits historically associated with race, including hair texture, hair type, and protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists.”
Governor Northam stated, in approving the law: “It’s pretty simple — if we send children home from school because their hair looks a certain way, or otherwise ban certain hairstyles associated with a particular race — that is discrimination… This is not only unacceptable and wrong, it is not what we stand for in Virginia. This bill will make our Commonwealth more equitable and welcoming for all.” The Governor’s press release also cited to comments by Virginia Delegate McQuinn: “A person’s hair is a core part of their identity… Nobody deserves to be discriminated against simply due to the hair type they were born with, or the way in which they choose to wear it. The acceptance of one’s self is the key to accepting others.”
The Commonwealth of Virginia is now the fourth state to ban race-based hairstyle discrimination after California, New Jersey and New York passed similar laws. Colorado is in the process of enacting a similar law presently, and more than 20 other states have similar legislation proposed or pending.
This new legislation is likely to need to a 2-3 year period of adjustment as employers in Virginia start to realize that such forms of discrimination are against the law either through the complaint process or in court. A link to the new Virginia law is located here.
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If you are in need of employment law legal representation or advice, please contact our office at 703-668-0070 or through our contact page to schedule a consultation. Please also visit and like us on Facebook or Twitter.
Your child is invited to an online Halloween Math Escape Room on Friday, October 30 at 4 p.m.
The Russian School of Mathematics has created this online event where kids will solve mystery brainteasers, spooky riddles and eerie puzzles to find out the way to escape from our chilling adventure.
Join us dressed in your favorite costume and invite your friends to get into the holiday spirit together.
Register now for the October 30 event!
Meet Theo, a male Hound mix puppy available for adoption locally.
His friends at Fancy Cats Rescue Team have much to say about him, but here is what Theo has to say for himself:
Hi, I am Theo! 11 week old puppy. My brothers and I were found without our mama, and ended up at the shelter.
I am only 6 pounds, but I think I am a big dog, and have a lot of confidence and personality. I love to cuddle and be carried, but I love romping through the yard and have a lot of energy!
I am looking for a forever home.
Are you and Theo a match?
The highly ranked master’s security studies programs at the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University have received a $250,000 gift from the Diana Davis Spencer Foundation.
The funds will be used for scholarships for eligible master’s students entering the Schar School in Spring 2021 who are pursuing degrees in a security studies-related program.
“The Diana Davis Spencer Foundation gift is making it possible for many students to attend our high-ranked security studies programs and prepare for careers in intelligence and security policy,” said Schar School Dean Mark J. Rozell. “We are grateful for this new partnership that will advance our shared goal of educating and training future policy professionals in these fields.”
The scholarship gift is intended to develop and prepare future national security professionals and leaders who will study in one of the Schar School’s four master’s programs: Master’s in International Security, Master’s in Biodefense, Master’s in Public Policy with an emphasis in National Security and Public Policy, and the global No. 22-ranked Master’s in Public Administration with a concentration in Emergency Management and Homeland Security.
“We are delighted to support students to attend a top-tier policy and government school which prepares them to be the outstanding professionals who will serve in the national security arena,” said foundation Chief Executive Officer Abby Spencer Moffat in announcing the award.
The scholarships range from $3,000 to $30,000 and will be distributed over the first three semesters of the degree program. Learn more about the Diana Davis Spencer Foundation Scholarship and how to apply.
Curious about where a security-focused degree can take you? Register for our upcoming virtual job talk on October 29 for a rare chance to hear from industry experts on ways to research and build out a policy and security career roadmap from the scope of available opportunities. Panelists will also share their knowledge on skills critical to preparing for professional success.
Former deputy director of the FBI Andrew McCabe, who is now a Distinguished Visiting Professor in the Schar School’s national security program, will also greet prospective students and share his security experience during a Master’s and Certificate Virtual Open House on November 12. Register to attend.
To stay updated on opportunities or information about the Schar School’s graduate programs, please visit our admissions event page or fill out our request form.
Meet Tala, a black Shepherd mix puppy available for adoption locally.
Here is what her friends at Safe Haven Puppy Rescue have to say about her:
Tala is a happy, friendly little girl who’s just twelve weeks old and 19 pounds.
She was dropped off at the shelter when she was found wandering on the side of the road so we really don’t know who her parents are but if we have to guess we might say German Shepherd! She has been a joy to have with us but she is ready to go to her forever family — we’re confident she will make some adopter a terrific companion.
This beautiful girl is a nice blend of friendly affection and normal puppy playfulness and will bring lots of love to any home.
Are you and Tala a match?
The apartment community of VY/Reston Heights continues to offer virtual tours of its studio, one, two and three bedroom luxury-living apartments — including hard-to-find two-level lofts — and now offers self-guided tours.
The apartment homes in the six-level building — the ground floor is an exciting mix of retail, services and restaurants — boast 8-feet-8 high ceilings; oversized windows with superb views; kitchens made from quartz, wood and stainless steel; elegant plank flooring; and contemporary barn doors for architectural interest.
The building includes an chic welcoming lobby and a common area social lounge, kitted out with shuffleboard, foosball, a catering kitchen and an oversized flat screen TV. The Sky Lounge includes an outdoor terrace for relaxing and entertaining. In addition to a resort-style swimming pool, the Flex fitness center offers an opportunity to keep fit with cardio equipment, free-weights and a stretching zone.
The pet-friendly building includes an on-site dog park and an indoor pet spa.
The community is part of the larger historic Reston neighborhood, in close proximity to Reston Town Center’s movie theaters, shops, restaurants and within walking distance to the soon-to-open Wegmans across the street, as well as the nearby Reston Town Center Metro Silver Line station. (Golfers will enjoy the access to Reston National Golf Course, just a five-iron from the front door.)
VY/Reston Heights is at 11830 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston. For those who feel like leasing now, this page is ready to welcome you. Details are at VY / Reston Heights or by calling 833-331-6644.
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.
It is important to obtain legal advice prior to meeting with security clearance investigators when potential security clearance problems are anticipated.
When individuals have difficulties in the security clearance process or anticipate future problems, the best advice that can be given is to prepare in advance for the meeting. Preparation for the first security clearance meeting can make the difference between a government contractor/federal employee successfully obtaining/retaining a security clearance or being denied one.
Preparing for the Initial Security Clearance Investigator Meeting
One of the most important considerations in meeting with a security clearance investigator for the first time is to adequately prepare for the meeting, especially where there may be potential disqualifying security concerns. We find that most government contractors and federal employees have a general sense of potential security concerns that could arise at the time that they begin to review or complete their e-QIP/SF-86 submissions.
In the most common scenario, an individual is usually alerted to potential problems that may require preparation for the clearance process when they find that they may have to answer “yes” to a certain question and then provide formal disclosures to an uncomfortable question, such as the use of drugs or past financial debts. When these types of issues are anticipated, then one should seek counsel and prepare in advance of a meeting with a security clearance investigator.
Review Relevant Documentation
If a potential security concern exists, it is important to gather as much information and documentation one has on the issue of concern in preparation for the interview. Such information, if useful, can be provided to security clearance investigators at the start. At other times, the information can be useful for later in the clearance process, if needed.
For example, suppose an individual knows that they have a large outstanding debt on their credit report. If so, then that information will certainly be important to review prior to a meeting with a security clearance investigator.
Respond to the Questions Asked
In regard to meetings between government contractors/federal employees and security clearance investigators, one other issue that we run across is the tendency of some individuals to provide information not sought by an investigator.
We advise government contractors and federal employees to answer the questions asked by investigators as honestly as possible but stick to the actual questions that are posed. On many occasions, individuals can get sidetracked or provide information that is not relevant to the questions asked by an investigator, which may cause clearance difficulties later or cause frustration for the investigator.
The usual key to a successful interview is to be as responsive as possible to any areas of concern but to make the meeting with the clearance investigator as efficient as possible. Investigators tend to have many cases to review and like to focus on their particular areas of concern. The better an individual can honestly address specific issues raised by an investigator, the better the potential outcome.
When issues arise, it is important to consult with counsel to obtain the best legal advice possible in presenting one’s response to difficult questions.
Follow-up Interviews or Requests by the Investigator
A security clearance investigator may need additional information regarding potential security concerns or need to interview an individual a second time. We typically advise individuals to attempt to anticipate these requests in advance.
For example, if an investigator appears to have questions about one’s psychological issues during an initial interview, it may be helpful to attempt to obtain a letter from a medical professional soon after that shows that the psychological concerns are under control and have been resolved. Doing so in advance can save time and effort later and may resolve issues early should the investigator come back with additional questions.
Contact Us
If you are in need of security clearance legal representation or advice, please contact our office at 703-668-0070 or through our contact page to schedule a consultation. Please also visit and like us on Facebook or Twitter.
Meet Dale, a black male kitten available for adoption locally.
Here is what his friends at Little Buddies Adoption and Humane Society have to say about him:
Dale is a beautiful, black stallion. He was rescued from outside to a home with her mom and siblings. He is looking for a forever home where he can play and purr and just snuggle up when he is tired.
He has a white spot on his belly and his chest. He will purr the moment you pick him up. His brother and he have fun together so he would be good around other cats. He loves to play and has a ton of energy.
He needs a home that will give him a lot of attention and has lots of toys.
Are you and Dale a match?
By Nicola Caul Shelley, Synergy Design & Construction
At Synergy Design & Construction, we’re big believers in giving homeowners insights into everything you need to know to make informed decisions about home remodeling.
As the pandemic wears on and we’re all spending so much more time at home, we know a lot of you are ready to make big changes. From kitchens to basements to bathrooms, interior remodeling services are in high demand — especially as temperatures start to plummet and our attention turns to winter and the prospect of spending even more time indoors.
Other than kitchens, one of the most frequent home remodeling requests we get is bathroom remodeling. So, to help you on your remodeling journey, here are three “don’t” tips you should know before you get started!
1. Don’t Hire the Wrong Type of Contractor for the Job
Every day you see your powder room, your heart sinks a little and you make a mental note (again) it’s time to do something about it. If your powder room needs a little pep, it’s not a big remodeling project. But, just as you don’t need a CPA to balance a checkbook, you don’t need a full service design and build firm like Synergy if you just want to update a vanity and change a light fixture. Knowing who you need is the starting point. Doing your homework and aligning your needs with the type of service a particular contractor provides is a HUGE time (and money) saver. Read more in Best Remodelers in Reston and Where to Find Them.
2. Don’t Assume You Need to Keep the Tub
We get this question a lot, “Do I need a bathtub in my Master Bathroom?”. The short answer is no. A soaking tub is aesthetically beautiful, but if you don’t use it now you won’t use it in the future. We’ve completed a number of remodels for homeowners who chose to eliminate the tub altogether and create a larger shower that packs a design “WOW!” punch instead. If you’re concerned about resale, most home buyers DO want a tub, but it doesn’t necessarily need to be in the Master Bathroom. As long as there’s one somewhere in the home for kids (and, yes, sometimes pets!) it isn’t a deal breaker. Of course, keeping the tub and making a design feature out of it is always an option if you have plenty of room for one.
3. Don’t Select Form Over Function
It’s really easy to select finishes based on your HGTV vision of your space, not the real life version of how you’ll actually use it. We’re all guilty of this one! For example, a pedestal sink can be a piece of artwork in itself, but it becomes a cluttered mess if you don’t have a place to put everything. Spend your budget on storage-friendly vanities. Adding one might just reduce the stress you feel every time you walk into your bathroom and see cluttered countertops. Even the most modern floating vanities now come in all sorts of styles that include storage drawers, so if you have more contemporary taste, you don’t have to sacrifice modern design.
Our featured remodel this month is a Reston townhome master bathroom remodel. This transitional bathroom is a great example of how removing the bathtub and creating room for a larger walk-in shower completely transforms the space. The result? A beautiful spa-like retreat.
Learn about the steps we take to ensure a safe home remodeling experience here. If you’re ready for a design thoughtful home remodel, our consultations are FREE and we even offer virtual meeting options. If you’re ready to chat, give us a call!
Not everyone has the time or financial resources to commit to a full master’s degree program. Some may already have a master’s and are just looking for a narrow update on a current skillset. For these reasons, Virginia Tech’s 100% online Master of Information Technology program now offers IT professionals the option to earn a graduate certificate in 10 specialized IT subject areas.
“IT leaders can find a certificate that speaks exactly to their professional needs without having to commit several years to pursuing a master’s degree,” says Barbara Hoopes, Associate Professor of Business Information Technology at Virginia Tech. In fact, students can earn a certificate in as little as 12 months as a part-time student.
Whether looking to simply enhance existing skills or prepare for a major career transition, students can expect to reap these rewards:
Enhanced Marketability — Both experienced and aspiring IT professionals can enhance their expertise through thoughtfully designed certificates that allow students to develop skills in areas where a current dearth of talent is driving competitive salaries and prime opportunities for career advancement.
Explore High-Demand Areas — Earning a certificate offers a relatively quick opportunity to explore a high-demand content area, like Cybersecurity, Business Data Analytics, or Health Information Technology, to boost marketability and stay abreast of IT trends. Employers can also use a certificate “to contribute to the skill sets and the knowledge base of employees without having to release them to earn a degree as a full-time student,” says Hoopes.
Greater Convenience — Exclusively online, a VT-MIT master’s degree or graduate certificate satisfies an increasing demand among IT workers for greater flexibility. Students can easily switch between full or part-time status and shift their course loads to match their personal and professional demands. An online VT-MIT degree or graduate certificate offers students the skills they need while at the same time balancing today’s personal, professional and academic demands.
Learn more about Virginia Tech’s 100% online Master of Information Technology and graduate certificate options at vtmit.vt.edu.
Meet Marco, a Border Collie and Corgi mix available for adoption locally.
Here is what his friends at Safe Haven Puppy Rescue have to say about him:
Marco and his brothers Maverick, Mojo and Moose are happy, friendly little boys who are just 9 weeks old and now ready for their forever homes.
They’re all doing great in their foster home, playing and romping as puppies will — they’re such fun to hang out with. Their mom weighs only about 25 pounds and while we don’t know who the father is it seems they won’t get very big, maybe in the 35 to 40 pound range. They might have some corgi or doxie in them as a couple have shorter legs and the mom is also a low rider.
They’re SO CUTE! This great little fella is a nice blend of friendly affection and normal puppy playfulness and will bring lots of joy and love to any home.
Are you and Marco a match?
The Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University is offering a new three-part series of “virtual visits” to campus for prospective undergraduate students to see first-hand the opportunities and world-changing subject matter that a Schar School student encounters.
“The virtual visits will showcase some of the high-profile professors, students, and graduates who make the Schar School one of the highest ranked policy and government schools in the country,” said Shannon Williams, who works in student services and is coordinating the virtual visits. “The variety of the topics of the three events range from examining the future of American democracy to justice and prison privatization to getting ready for your career in changing the world. Prospective students will be able to ask questions at the end and they can register for one session or all three, at no cost.”
The virtual visit series will be held October 13-15, at 6 p.m. EDT. Topics throughout the week include:
- Bridging the Divide? Political Polarization and the Future of American Democracy
Tuesday, October 13
6-7:15 p.m. (EDT)
A government and politics panel of Schar School professors, joined by a current student and a recent graduate, discuss the idea of polarization and its impact on the future of American democracy - Preparing for a Career that Makes a Difference
Wednesday, October 14
6-7:15 p.m. (EDT)
An internship and career readiness panel with Undergraduate Student Services, Mason Career Services, and Schar School students and alumni share various resources and opportunities available to students - Corporate Profit or Public Good? Prison Privatization and the Question of Justice
Thursday, October 15
6-7:15 p.m. (EDT)
A policy and law panel with Schar School professors and the school’s pre-law advisor, joined by a current Schar School student and a recent graduate, examine corporate profit versus public good and their impacts on the core of America’s justice system
Register to attend any or all of the virtual visits.
With a BA in Government and International Politics and the BS in Public Administration, students are poised to make an impact globally and locally.
To learn more about other upcoming events, please visit our event calendar or connect with the Schar School Office of Undergraduate Student Services at [email protected].
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 individual government contractors (typically private employees that work for government defense contractors) in debarment cases before federal agencies, like the Department of Defense and many others agencies.
What is a Debarment?
Debarments (and shorter term suspensions) are government actions taken under the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) to protect the government’s interest from contractors that have been alleged to be irresponsible. Suspensions result in temporary contractor ineligibility to work on government contracts, usually occurring during an investigation or during other ongoing legal matters. Debarments can last a period of years. Suspensions and debarments are not for the purpose of punishing a government contractor, but for protecting the public.
Some government contractors can have both debarment and security clearance issues.
Effect of Debarments and Suspensions
Debarments and suspensions have a significant impact on individual government contractors. These often include removal from their government contract employment (and potential termination from employment) and potential security clearance issues. Government contractors that are debarred, suspended or proposed for debarment are not eligible to receive contracts, unless a compelling reason exists, which can be a very high bar to meet.
The government takes a straightforward approach to debarment and there is a robust response process. Of late, the government has also seemed to take a more assertive approach in debarment or suspension of individuals that are under the suspicion of wrongdoing, even if they have not been convicted of any crime.
Common Reasons for Debarment (of Suspension of Eligibility)
The most common reasons for debarment or suspension can often include:
- Criminal Convictions or Pending Charges
- Civil Judgments and/or Liens
- Evidence of Crimes
- Specific Misconduct (e.g. time and attendance mischarging)
Debarment/Suspension Process
At the start of the disbarment process, the government will issue a show cause letter requiring a government contractor to demonstrate why they should not be suspended or debarred. These proceedings are completely relatively quickly and individual government contractors must respond in order to avoid a negative outcome.
A debarment or suspension proceeding is similar, somewhat to a security clearance proceeding. The government will generally provide a show cause letter to the individual pursuant to the FAR, an initial chance to respond to the allegations, along with a memorandum in support of proposed debarment. If the matter proceeds, the individual contractor will have to respond to a Notice of Proposed Debarment from the government.
Responding to Debarments
In responding to a notice of proposed debarment, it is important to fully address all allegations of misconduct or impropriety, through counsel. We often find it helpful to submit letters of support on behalf of the individual, awards, commendations and other materials which demonstrate the character and integrity of the individual.
Additionally, cooperation in related investigations, completion of ethics training in a relevant area, acceptance of responsibility and other mitigating arguments should be made to the Debarring Official in an effort to convince them that debarment is not needed or that mitigation is appropriate.
Following the response period, a decision will be rendered by the Debarring Official. The Debarring Official can uphold, mitigate or terminate the Debarment. If a negative finding is reached, leaving the person in a debarment status, that finding will be placed in the debarment database, known as the System for Award Managements (SAM). Further, if a negative finding is upheld, there is sometimes the ability to seek reconsideration of a negative debarment finding. The process can involve contacting the Debarring Official with new or other evidence and seeking to reduce the debarment. It is important to have legal representation in this process.
Contact Us
If you are in need of legal representation or advice, please contact our office at 703-668-0070 or through our contact page to schedule a consultation. Please also visit and like us on Facebook or Twitter.
With national recognition for safety excellence, Inova is at the leading edge of the science of safety for you.
Inova’s comprehensive care program, Safe@Inova, gives details about the safety of their locations, strict PPE requirements and cleaning protocols, so you feel confident it’s safe for you to receive the care you need.
Whether you come to Inova for routine care, emergency care or COVID-19 care, you’re Safe@Inova.
In an uncertain economy, professionals may find that returning to school for an MBA can be a productive way to sharpen skills and add credentials while working to launch the next stage of their careers.
Virginia Tech’s Evening MBA program, based in the university’s Northern Virginia Center in Falls Church, has attracted many new students this fall for several reasons, said MBA programs director Dana Hansson. These include its stellar reputation and top 20 national ranking; dedicated faculty, many with industry experience; extensive alumni network; and great value.
Those who majored in science, engineering and other nonbusiness disciplines as undergraduates — such as Ryan Feber, a 2003 Virginia Tech graduate in computer science, and Bryan Gassenmeyer, who earned a degree in industrial and systems engineering at Virginia Tech in 2006 — have found that not only is a prior business education not needed to enroll or excel in an MBA program, but that technical backgrounds can be a basis for diversifying or rounding out knowledge and skills for managing or leading change in today’s data economy.
Others like Cody Neder, a 2014 finance alumnus, and Alexis Monahan, a 2006 graduate in communications and psychology, have lauded the program for the business and management knowledge and skills they’ve gained and the rich contributions to their learning from faculty and classmates with diverse professional backgrounds.
And, because life circumstances can change, a program that offers flexibility and affordability — students can shift between full-time and part-time status and apply for paid graduate assistantships — are two more pluses.
Maryann Romero’s experience reflects both these benefits. A stay-at-home mom at the time with an undergraduate degree in communications and rhetorical studies from Syracuse University, Romero finished up in two-and-a-half years and credits the program for opening the door to a new career as a client insights analyst at a media analytics company.
Lastly, Virginia Tech’s caring and supportive community of faculty and staff left a lasting impression on Nicholle Clinton, who received a marketing degree in 2007 and currently expects to complete her MBA in December 2020. Clinton coped with a series of serious family illnesses and losses during her senior year as well as early in her MBA studies. She is grateful for the compassion and assistance she received during both periods from the teaching faculty and program staff.
Learn more about how Virginia Tech can support your career goals at mba.vt.edu.
