“Dear PoPville,

I’m writing to you as a friend of John Chambers and BLOOMBARS, his wonderful, family-friendly art space in Columbia Heights. Things have been rough on small arts organizations since Covid, and John is in immediate danger of losing not only Bloombars but his home, because he sunk everything into keeping his small non-profit art center alive.”

From Spotfund:

“Fifteen years ago, my friend John Chambers quit a great job to follow a dream. He turned an old building into a community art space in the up-and-coming Washington D.C. neighborhood of Columbia Heights. He called it BloomBars. The intention was never to serve alcohol but to serve art and build community. Over the years, singers, musicians and writers of all types came together to be nurtured as artists and human beings. Toddlers learned how to play drums there. Teenagers became poets there. Musicians stood on a stage for the first time there, and went on to celebrated careers. It’s the kind of family-friendly place that every parent wants in their neighborhood. With a social justice mission, no one was ever turned away for lack of funds. Read More

Thanks to A. for sending: “Saw Waymo “self-driving” rideshare car in DC–perhaps they are planning to come to the DMV? There was someone sitting in the driver’s seat…”

And another sighting: Read More

2104 Vermont Ave, NW via IG

Thanks to E. for sharing the sad news: “Ugh the Bottle Collection (amazing wine/liquor store) next to Wet Dog is closing. So sad they were amazing.” Read More

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: 6211 5th Street NW

“Welcome to your dream home in the heart of Takoma Park! Nestled just a few blocks from downtown, this charming duplex offers the perfect blend of modern convenience and classic charm. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by gleaming new hardwood floors that flow seamlessly throughout the main level. The abundance of windows on the main floor floods the space with natural light. The eat-in kitchen is a chef’s delight, featuring stainless-steel appliances, brand-new cabinets and granite countertops, and a large island for entertaining. Step outside to the backyard oasis, where you have a front porch and back porch, front yard, side yard, and back yard to entertain. Up one level features two large bedrooms and two large bathrooms. Head up to the finished attic, offering a perfect spot to create a home office/playroom and so much more with treetop views. The finished lower level has a bedroom, family room, and full bath, along with convenient access to the attached garage. Rarely in D.C. do you get an attached garage! This garage can also be converted to a hangout space or an additional bedroom. Step outside and discover the neighborhood’s best amenities right at your doorstep. Across the street, the Takoma Recreation Center offers a pool, playground, and dog park, while Wells Middle School and Coolidge High School are just a stone’s throw away. With Safeway and Walmart nearby, and an array of restaurants and boutiques in Takoma Park, everything you need is within reach. Plus, the metro is less than a mile away, making commuting a breeze. Don’t miss your chance to own this gem in one of D.C.’s most coveted neighborhoods.”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

• The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 4 BR/4.5 BA historically preserved Georgetown rowhome that was “completely renovated all the way down to the studs” with 3,700 sq. ft. across 4 levels and features floor-to-ceiling windows, 2 fireplaces, a slate patio with a walled-in backyard and more — all for $5.88M.
• 4 BR/3.5 BA Petworth interior rowhome “has a large living & dining space just off the updated gourmet kitchen which makes for a great space to enjoy an amazing meal as well as entertain friends & family.”
• “Indulge in luxury living with this bright and airy one-bedroom [Southwest Waterfront] retreat offering breathtaking Potomac River views from every room. The expansive 39-foot balcony spans nearly 300 SqFt, offering panoramic views of the river, lush green space and a serene center courtyard adorned with a tranquil fountain.”
• Your Auction/REO Property of the Week is a vacant, “uninhabitable” detached home in Lincoln Heights with “NO ACCESS due to unsafe conditions” and is being sold AS-IS with no disclosures and is a cash-only sale.

1404 North Capitol St, NW

Super sad news out of Catania Bakery over the winter. Thanks to Eric for sharing from their FB:

“Sadly, we must let you all know that we lost a great lady on Saturday, February 3rd. Nicole is now with her beloved Tony, and our other family who went before her. We love and miss her more than words can say.”

I had the pleasure of meeting with Nicole back in 2011, and she couldn’t have been kinder. Read More

After yesterday’s post from Shaw, Rachel spotted two guys like this, above, in Noma.

Fortunately Aaron spotted some snake reinforcements coming to the rescue: Read More

3211 Mt. Pleasant Street, NW

Last month we shared the news that “La Tejana is gonna open in the evenings!!!”

Thanks to Jax for sending an update: “Bar opening upstairs at La Tejana in Mount Pleasant!”

La Tejana shares on their IG: “La Tejana is now a breakfast taco carry out by day and a neighborhood cocktail bar by night Read More

1831 14th Street, NW

Thanks to a reader for sending word about the opening of Visual Comfort & Co in the former Immortal Beloved salon space.

A peek inside: Read More

photo by James Warner

Back in June 2023 Brookland also had a Black Bear visitor.

Thanks to Emily for passing on James’ great shot – and of course thanks to James for giving us permission to post: “Last seen running into Fort Bunker Hill Park.”

And thanks to Shireen for giving permission to share this wild photo posted at 7:02am: Read More