photo by Tim Brown

“Washington National Opera, as a leader in opera, seeks to inspire, connect, and enrich our community, shape the future of opera, and illuminate the American and human experience. We tell timeless stories with programming that excites, entertains, engages, and educates. We are committed to diversity and balance – presenting classic, contemporary, and American works – to broad local, national, and international audiences.”

Big News from the Washington National Opera:

WNO-Public-Transition-Letter (PDF)

“January 10, 2026

To our friends, artists, and supporters,

As Washington National Opera begins its 70th anniversary year, the Board and staff have made the difficult decision to seek an end to our 15-year Affiliation Agreement with the Kennedy Center. We will be moving our performances to new venues as we return to operating as a fully independent entity. (more…)



800 block of Upshur Street, NW via DC Fire and EMS

DC Fire and EMS concluded: “Final Update: Working Fire – 800 block of Upshur St NW – 6 adults were displaced as a result of the fire. Photos show smoke/fire conditions upon arrival to the fireground.”

Cinder BBQ shared their update with the community: (more…)



810 H Street, NE

From a press release:

“Underworld BJJ is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym located at 810 H St. NE, on January 11, 2026, bringing family-friendly fitness, fun, and competitive sports to the H St community. With classes 7 days/ week, Underworld offers to the local community an action-packed schedule full of beginner-friendly classes, kids classes, women’s-only classes, competition training, and so much more.

Just three weeks after becoming the 2025 Purple belt Jiu Jitsu World Champion, Danielle Gallo and her fiancé Aidan Oates, have opened Underworld BJJ, with the goal of transforming the H St community with the sport that changed their lives. (more…)


Nice.

From the DC Public Library:

“We’re thrilled to announce a brand-new service at the MLK Library: the Notary Public Commission! Whether you’re finalizing a Power of Attorney, verifying copies of your ID, or handling real estate paperwork, our notary is here to help with a wide range of eligible documents. Just head to the 2nd floor on the second and third Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. – no appointment needed! (more…)


From the Mayor’s Office:

“Mayor Muriel Bowser, the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA), and the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) announced that District Government reached a major milestone in its commitment to a safe and regulated cannabis market: the District’s 100th illegal cannabis business closure since enforcement closures began in September 2024. On January 1, 2026, ABCA and MPD shuttered and padlocked an illegal cannabis business that had been operating out of a private residence on B Street SE. These enforcement actions affirm the Bowser Administration’s commitment to upholding the law and protecting the health and safety of DC residents. (more…)


From MPD:

“The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) continues to investigate a fatal crash that occurred on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at the intersection of 16th Street and L Street, Northwest.

At approximately 3:49 p.m., a Chevrolet Malibu operating at a high rate of speed southbound in the 1100 block of 16th Street, Northwest, entered the intersection with L Street against a red light. The Malibu collided with a Toyota Corolla that was traveling eastbound on L Street with a green light. The collision caused the Malibu to strike a pedestrian walking eastbound in the crosswalk with the right-of-way, across 16th Street. Three additional vehicles stopped at the red light northbound on 16th Street were also damaged in the collision.

The operator and sole occupant of the Malibu attempted to flee the scene on foot but was apprehended by responding officers. DC Fire and EMS responded to the scene and after all lifesaving efforts failed, the pedestrian was pronounced dead. (more…)



photo by Ryan Maxwell

“Dear PoPville,

I was wondering if you can throw out a question about what restaurants in Takoma Park / Silver Spring / very NE DC have their own delivery? I read a horrible thread about doordash/uber eat’s practices and want to quit delivery apps. Realistically I don’t think I’d go pick up food, as when I use the apps it’s for convenience. So, would love any recommendations of restaurants that manage it themselves. I’ll throw one that I recently found out that does it themselves, la casita pupusería!”

Recommendation from a reader: “Cocineros (near Home Depot on East West Highway) and its sibling restaurant San Alejo (New Hampshire Ave) both offer their own delivery. “



via Wilmer Valderrama IG

From a press release:

“A new cocktail bar rooted in culture, ritual, and intention is opening its doors at La Cosecha 1280 4th Street, NE, the vibrant Latin American marketplace and cultural hub in the Union Market District. Elegancia, the latest concept from actor, producer, and entrepreneur Wilmer Valderrama and community-focused hospitality entrepreneur Daniella Senior, will officially open on Sunday, February 8, inviting guests into a space where elegance is defined not by exclusivity or spectacle, but by authenticity, care, and presence.

Elegancia draws inspiration from Latin America’s landscapes, traditions, and communal spirit. Expressive cocktails, bold bites, rich symbolism, and a warm, immersive atmosphere come together to create a cultural home rather than a performance, one where guests are invited to linger, connect, and feel seen.

The name Elegancia reflects a philosophy: (more…)


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