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The Story of Chocolate at the National Museum of the American Indian

By PoP Sponsor (a)
The Story of Chocolate | National Museum of the American Indian

Enjoy a weekend of chocolate history, culture, and food.

Follow the path from cacao blossom to beverage with interactive presentations, participate in a cacao-inspired mural painting, enjoy chocolate food and drink demonstrations and tastings (while supplies last), or create your own chocolate-inspired codex.

Check out the full schedule here.

The Story of Chocolate
Saturday and Sunday, February 15-16 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Free | National Mall

Ongoing Activities

Level 1, Potomac Atrium:

  • Blossom to Beverage — The Jose Reyes Family (Mixtec) will share the process of turning cacao into chocolate. “Blossom to Beverage” delves deep into cacao, from blooms through ripe cacao pods, and finishes with the frothy beverage we recognize as hot chocolate.
  • Alcahuetes (Zapotec Chocolate stirring instrument) — Several complex Mesoamerican cacao beverages require the use of a stirrer or mixer for the individual servings. They have a history that dates back at least 500 years, but their use survives in just a few places, including the Central Valleys of Oaxaca, where they are called “alcahuetes.” These alcahuetes are wooden sticks with an animal figure on top. Museum visitors will be able to decorate their own alcahuetes.
  • Interactive Mural — Joaquin Newman (Yaqui/Mexica) will create a mural and offer visitors the opportunity to work together to paint and learn about Mayan designs.

Level 3, imagiNATIONS Activity Center:

  • Codice Activity — Some pre-Hispanic and colonial Mixtec codices, such as the Nutall, Vindobonensis, Azoyú and Texupan, contain depictions of cacao (seeds, pods, and trees) and cacao beverages as part of ceremonies such as offerings and royal weddings. Visitors can create their own chocolate-inspired codex with support from museum staff.

Level 1, Potomac Atrium: 12 p.m. and 2 p.m.

  • Food and drink demonstrations with Executive Chef Alexandra Strong — Mitsitam’s executive chef will demonstrate a chocolate-inspired tasting menu. Limited tastings to follow, first come, first served while supplies last.

Improve Your Online Presence With Weblime

By PoP Sponsor (a)
WebLime | Improve Your Online Presence

Your website is more than just a digital storefront — it’s your brand’s first impression and a key driver of growth. At WebLime, we help businesses in Arlington and the DMV build, optimize, and scale their online presence with ease.

Whether you’re running a bustling café, a thriving retail shop, or a service-based business, we provide tailored solutions that set you apart from the competition.

What We Offer

We take care of the complexities so you can focus on what matters most — your business.

✅ Fully Managed Hosting & Development: We ensure your site is fast, secure, and always up-to-date.

✅ Shopify & WordPress Expertise: As Shopify Partners, we build high-performing eCommerce stores. For non-eCommerce sites, we use WordPress to create flexible, scalable solutions.

✅ Local SEO & Directory Management: Our Local+ package keeps your business visible on Google Maps, Bing, Yelp, and more, ensuring customers find you first.

Plus, WebLime is the team behind Limey, a platform designed to make networking and marketing effortless. With Limey QR Stands and Digital Business Cards, you can instantly share your contact details, drive more Google Reviews, and leave a lasting impression with a simple scan or tap.

Exclusive Offer for PoPville Readers

For a limited time, PoPville readers get 25% off Limey QR Stands and Digital Business Cards. Use code LIMEY25POPV at checkout — this deal is only available until the end of the month!

Let’s Build Something Great

Your business deserves a standout online presence. Get started today at WebLime.com or grab your exclusive offer at Limey.io.

Get 25% Off Today!

DC Open House List for This Weekend: February 7, 2025

By PoP Sponsor (a)

The first week of February does seem to have a slight dip in the overall DC Open House count with 250 scheduled across the District this weekend. Check out some of our favorite suggested options below and to see the full DC Open House List, click here.

16 17th Street NE #331
  • 16 17th Street NE #331 — $640,000 — Hill East
    Open Sun. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. — Gene Sung
    “Don’t miss out on this opportunity to own a piece of D.C. just a few blocks away from the future RFK Stadium campus redevelopment. This spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom top-floor corner-unit condo is located in the vibrant Hill East neighborhood. With over 1000 sf of interior space plus an additional large private outdoor space, this sun-drenched unit features an open floor plan with hardwood floors, a contemporary kitchen with gas cooking, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and a large living/dining area perfect for entertaining. The private balcony is large enough for an outdoor living and dining setup to enjoy a meal al fresco, entertain, or work from home while basking in the sun. Other highlights include an owner’s suite large enough for a king-size bed, a large walk-in custom closet, a flexible nook space for reading, Peloton, or WFH setup, an ensuite bathroom with dual sinks and walk-in shower, and in-unit laundry. 16 17th Street NE is just moments from local shops, coffee shops, dining, Lincoln Park, Eastern Market, and transit within 3 blocks to the metro and buses. This pet-friendly building offers secure entry, well-maintained common areas, convenient street parking, and a close-knit community. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to make this home yours!”
  • 1440 Church Street NW #103 — $799,000 — Logan Circle
    Open Sat. 1-3 p.m. — Jennifer Dameika
    “Highly desirable two bedroom/two bathroom condo with large patio, private entrance and dedicated parking in the center of Logan Circle neighborhood, yet tucked away on the quiet and iconic Church Street NW. At over 1000sqft and with extra high ceilings, this home is spacious and airy.”
  • 440 12th Street NE #301 — $499,900 — Capitol Hill
    Open Sat. 2-4 p.m. & Sun. 12-2 p.m. — David Bediz
    “Make your new home at Lovejoy Lofts — a converted schoolhouse that provides a distinctive city living experience with beautiful architecture, tall ceilings, and exposed brick. This 1 BR + DEN/1 BA penthouse unit has a fantastic living room with large windows, vaulted ceiling with exposed beams, custom built-ins, and polished concrete floors.”
  • 532 Somerset Place NW — $615,000 — Brightwood
    Open Sat. 12-2 p.m. — Kerri Murphy
    $10k PRICE REDUCTION: “This delightful semi-detached row-house in sought after Brightwood/Manor Park beckons visitors to come enjoy a drink and conversation on the welcoming front porch. The living room can equally provide a gracious entertaining space or a peaceful retreat from the world.”
  • 1409 Potomac Avenue SE — $799,000 — Hill East
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Howard Salpeter
    “Stunning 2-bed, 1.5-bath Capitol Hill rowhome with thoughtful upgrades throughout! RFK just down the street (invest now for the future). SOLAR POWER affords the benefit of low low electric bills. Step inside to gleaming hardwood floors, exposed brick walls, and soaring 9-ft ceilings.”
  • 4920 Loughboro Road NW — $5,850,000 — Kent
    Open Sat. 2-4 p.m. — Brian Thomas
    “With painstaking attention to detail and dedication to quality, this stunning [7 BR/8 FB/2 HB] residence is a standout. Truly, this property resides in a class of its own, wonderfully enhanced by its enviable address.”
  • 1213 Holbrook Street NE #1 — $678,000 — Trinidad
    Open Sat. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. — Kristen Schifano
    $12k PRICE REDUCTION: “Discover the perfect blend of luxury and location with this exceptional 3-bedroom condo in the heart of downtown! Renovated top-to-bottom in 2021, this residence offers sophisticated urban living just minutes from the bustling H Street Corridor.”

Legal Insider: Federal Employees Weigh Options With Federal Employment Resignations

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

With the deadline approaching today (February 6, 2025) for federal employees considering whether to take up the administration’s offer to resign and get paid through the end of September (“Fork in the Road” email), many still have questions.

There have been multiple changes to the offer and proposed settlement terms over the last few days so employees accepting the deferred resignation are facing risks as to whether or not the program will work as planned.

Many federal employees offered the deferred resignation opportunity could benefit from it, but one of the problems is that the program has been rushed out too quickly. With the speed that the program was put in place, most federal employees have been confused about how it applies, whether they will have to do any work during the resignation period and whether it is binding. Most agency administrators have been unable to properly advise subordinate federal employees on what type of work they will have to do during the resignation period and many other questions.

One version of the Fork in the Road email suggests that vacations are an option, which is likely not the case. Federal employees can expect to work to some degree (or perhaps full time) from home if they accept the deferred resignation offer. We just don’t know what will happen.

The Reality of the Resignation Offer

We are advising federal employee clients to seriously consider the risks before accepting OPM’s deferred resignation offer. While the offer is appealing to many, it involves a leap of faith. If something goes wrong with the resignation offer in the courts, such as it is found to have not been appropriated correctly by Congress, or whether it complies with the Administrative Procedures Act and other laws, individuals could be left without any option to challenge the agreement. We wrote about these issues when it first came out.

(more…)

This Valentine’s Day Give a Thoughtful Gift From Framebridge

By PoP Sponsor (a)
1/3

Pssst…Valentine’s Day is next week, and the most thoughtful gift is already on your phone! 

Framebridge, the D.C.-based company that revolutionized custom framing, has done it again and introduced the easiest way to give a thoughtful, personalized gift from any of their 7 convenient D.C.-area retail stores. 

Simply walk in with a digital photo and choose your favorite tabletop frame style. Their talented team of experts will print, frame, and gift wrap your photo in-store in minutes, and you can walk out a Valentine’s Day hero!

Framed gifts start at just $40 and are guaranteed to impress (cue happy tears!).

Visit your neighborhood Framebridge store at 14th Street, Union Market, Georgetown, Bethesda, Old Town, Clarendon, McLean or Mosaic District now through Valentine’s Day, February 14 (procrastinators, rejoice!).

Pro tip: you can also order ahead online for same-day pickup!

Find Your Nearest Framebridge

Real Estate Fresh Finds: February 5, 2025

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: 1440 Church Street NW #103

1440 Church Street NW #103

“Highly desirable two bedroom/two bathroom condo with large patio, private entrance and dedicated parking in the center of Logan Circle neighborhood, yet tucked away on the quiet and iconic Church Street NW. At over 1000 sq. ft. and with extra high ceilings, this home is spacious and airy. The primary bedroom offers a very large walk-in closet, and a spa-like ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower, ample counter space, under-sink storage, and a linen closet. The second bedroom also has generous closet space and direct access to the second/guest bathroom. The open living area receives ample light during the day and allows for a variety of way to use the space. The stylish plantation shutters will lead you out to the extended patio, offering multiple sitting & lounging areas. Dedicated parking spot right outside the unit! No more wasting time in elevators to get to the garage or outside! Stackable washer/dryer in unit. The kitchen & bath were updated in 2018. The flooring was updated in 2021. Come see this beauty today!”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is an 8 BR/7 FB/2 HB detached Colonial in Forest Hills with 9,100+ total sq. ft. spread across 4 levels and features a circular staircase, formal dining room, 5 fireplaces and a fenced-in backyard with a pool and Japanese garden — all for just under $8M.
  • “Welcome home to this stunning two-level condominium in the heart of vibrant Petworth. Situated on the third floor on the thriving Georgia Ave corridor, this 2 BR/2 BA features floor to ceiling windows on both levels, thoughtfully detailed open layout with space for entertaining, and privacy where wanted.”
  • “Beautifully updated [2 BR/2.5 BA] brick Victorian Home in dream Dupont Circle location with detached garage and private outdoor space. This spacious home has been tastefully updated to perfectly pair its historic charm with today’s modern conveniences.”
  • Your REO/Bank-Owned Property of the Week is a 2 BR/2 BA condo in Logan Circle “featuring an open floor plan, hardwood flooring throughout, and a private balcony with breathtaking city views.”

Place Your Valentine’s Orders From Volanni

By PoP Sponsor (a)
1/5

Hey, heads up: Valentine’s Day is two weeks away. (Yeah, it has a special way of creeping up.)

Instead of treating your admirer to the same ole romanic dinner, why not go back to the basics and surprise them with flowers?

Instead of calling up one of those national florists and ordering a generic arrangement, shop local and order a unique bouquet from D.C.-based florist Volanni.

Michael Lanni, the artist behind these beautiful bouquets, is offering Valentine’s Day arrangements. You’ll find way more options than your classic red roses, too. (There’s even a “showy, elegant” arrangement called the Petworth.) Ultimately, Volanni is made up of artists and flowers are the medium.

So if you want to support local and surprise your special person with some flowers this Valentine’s Day, shop Volanni’s arrangements and place your order online by Wednesday, February 12.

Follow Volanni on Instagram @volanni_floral!

Order Today!

DC Open House List for This Weekend: January 31, 2025

By PoP Sponsor (a)

As we enter February, the DC Open House count continues to rise with 315+ total opens across the District this weekend.Take a look at some of our favorite suggested options below and to see the full DC Open House List, click here.

1518 T Street NW
  • 1518 T Street NW — $1,825,000 — U Street Corridor
    Open Sat. & Sun. 2-4 p.m. — David Bediz
    “Beautifully updated brick Victorian Home in dream Dupont Circle location with detached garage and private outdoor space. This spacious home has been tastefully updated to perfectly pair its historic charm with today’s modern conveniences. The main level of the home is bright and open with a welcoming foyer, large living room with a fireplace, and tall ceilings with recessed lighting and crown molding. The layout is ideal for entertaining with a large stylish powder room and separate dining room that flows nicely into your DREAM KITCHEN! This chef’s kitchen features upgraded stainless Jenn-Air appliances, navy blue soft-close cabinets, quartz counters, and chic backsplash. It also leads into the sun-drenched breakfast nook with built-in seating and direct access to your PRIVATE outdoor space. The backyard has been transformed to an easy-to-maintain space with areas for gardening, grilling, and entertaining. There is also a DETACHED GARAGE that has been fitted with an EV CHARGER or use the garage for additional storage space. Upstairs, you’ll find the MASSIVE PRIMARY BEDROOM SUITE complete with a deep walk-in closet with custom storage and seating area, and the spa-like en-suite with an oversized glass shower, extra storage and large vanity. Down the hall, you’ll find an additional spacious bedroom with great storage space, W/D, and access to the PRIVATE BALCONY that overlooks the back patio, plus an additional full bathroom. The lower level of the home provides great additional storage space.”
  • 1331 K Street SE #301 — $394,999 — Hill East
    Open Sat. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. — Molly Branson & Alexandra Williams
    “Embrace modern city living in this open and bright 1 BR/1 BA gem, ideally situated in a boutique 13-unit condo building in Capitol Hill. This well-designed unit, featuring high ceilings, dark hardwood floors, recessed lighting, and large windows, exudes a clean, streamlined ambiance.”
  • 73 Florida Avenue NW — $1,079,900 — Bloomingdale
    Open Sat. & Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Alex Venditti & Stanya Taylor
    “In the thriving and trendy neighborhood of Bloomingdale, you’ll find this extensively updated 3 bedroom/2 bath end-unit row home that is in close proximity to local eateries, unique parks, and boutique retail. This historic, yet contemporary living space flows to the outdoor space/deck, including an oversized, two-car gated/secured parking.”
  • 244 14th Place NE #2 — $799,000 — Capitol Hill
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Liz Ho
    “Nestled among the treetops, this lovely two-level, 3-bed, 2.5-bath urban sanctuary blends contemporary style, thoughtful design, and everyday comfort. As you step into this 1500+ sq. ft. top-floor retreat, an open-concept kitchen, living, and dining area greets you with an abundance of natural light from its eastern exposure — perfect for energizing mornings.”
  • 4920 Loughboro Road NW — $5,850,000 — Kent
    Open Sat. 2-4 p.m. — Brian Thomas
    “Abundantly apparent at first sight, no expense nor effort has been spared in creating this custom showplace residence. Be sure to pace yourself — you’ve got nearly 10,000 square feet to explore across four floors, including 7 bedrooms and 8.5 baths. A thoughtful and practical addition, the private elevator will ease your journey.”
  • 1213 Holbrook Street NE #1 — $690,000 — Trinidad
    Open Sat. 12-2 p.m. — Kristen Schifano
    $25k PRICE REDUCTION: “Discover the perfect blend of luxury and location with this exceptional 3-bedroom condo in the heart of downtown! Renovated top-to-bottom in 2021, this residence offers sophisticated urban living just minutes from the bustling H Street Corridor, where you’ll be surrounded by endless shopping, dining, and entertainment options, along with easy access to Union Market and the H Street trolley.”

Real Estate Fresh Finds: January 29, 2025

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: 576 Brummel Court NW

576 Brummel Court NW

“Charming brick townhome with a prime location. Welcome to this beautiful brick townhome, perfectly blending style and convenience. Featuring two spacious owner suites, this home offers ample comfort for family or guests. Open kitchen with abundant storage, and a cozy eat-in nook. The inviting living room with a fireplace for cozy evenings and opens to a balcony, ideal for enjoying your morning coffee or unwinding after a long day. A main-level powder room adds convenience for guests. Private fenced backyard, featuring low-maintenance turf. Located in an unbeatable location, this home is just a half-mile from Takoma Station, offering seamless Metro access. Explore a vibrant mix of restaurants, shops, and entertainment in nearby Takoma Park, Silver Spring, and D.C. Don’t miss this rare gem — schedule your tour today!”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 5 BR/5.5 BA detached Victorian in Georgetown with 6,100 sq. ft. across 4 levels and features 3 fireplaces, gourmet kitchen with butler’s pantry, library, 10’ ceilings, 2-car garage, parking court, and a walled-in backyard with a deck and 3-season room — all for $8.5M.
  • “This lovely, sun-soaked two-level [3 BR/3.5 BA Petworth] condo features gleaming hardwoods throughout, a stainless steel/quartz island kitchen, with pantry, and dining space for six or more.”
  • An “exquisite residence offers a harmonious blend of modern design and comfortable living in the sought-after Petworth neighborhood. Boasting 3 spacious bedrooms and 3 beautifully appointed baths, this terrace-level unit is designed for those who appreciate both style and functionality.”
  • Your REO/Bank-Owned Property of the Week is a 3 BR/2.5 BA “grand fixer-upper” that looks like renovation was briefly started but still requires major rehab needed to make the place habitable and is being sold AS-IS.

DC Open House List for This Weekend: January 24, 2025

By PoP Sponsor (a)

This weekend we have nearly 300 DC Open Houses scheduled across the District, still exponentially increasing from previous weeks. Check out some of our favorite suggested options below and to see the full DC Open House List, click here.

1340 Fairmont Street NW #34
  • 1340 Fairmont Street NW #34 — $550,000 — Columbia Heights
    Open Sun. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. — Jocelyn Vas & Molly Branson
    “Welcome to your dream condo at 1340 Fairmont Street NW, Unit 34! This stunning two-bedroom, one-bath home offers 803 square feet of sunlit and thoughtfully designed living space, perfectly situated in the heart of one of D.C.’s most vibrant neighborhoods. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by oversized windows that flood the space with natural light, beautifully refinished hardwood floors, and soaring ceilings that add to the inviting ambiance. The open-concept living and dining area seamlessly connects to a chef’s kitchen, complete with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, a brand-new dishwasher, and generous storage — perfect for entertaining or enjoying quiet nights in. Both bedrooms are spacious and offer deep closets for ample storage. The unit also includes a full-sized washer and dryer for added convenience. Step out onto your private rear deck—a serene retreat for morning coffee, evening relaxation, or hosting friends outdoors.”
  • 318 Eastern Avenue NE — $425,000 — Deanwood
    Open Sat. 1-3 p.m. — Sherese Teixeira
    “This charming 3 Level property offers 2 bedrooms, 1 full bathroom upper level, 1 bed 1 full bath lower level with walk-out basement and a range of sought-after features, making it ideal for modern living, House Hacking & or long- and short-term Rental Investment Opportunities including AirBNB.”
  • 1106 E Street SE — $1,350,000 — Hill East
    Open Sun. 12-2 p.m. — Anna Mackler & Barak Sky
    “Welcome to this historic fully gut-renovated federal style rowhome in the heart of Capitol Hill, offering the perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury. Nestled in an incredible location at the heart of everything, this stunning 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath residence spans three levels, featuring super tall ceilings, custom millwork, brand-new windows, high-end materials, designer fixtures, and a thoughtfully designed floor plan.”
  • 3641 11th Street NW — $969,900 — Columbia Heights/Petworth
    Open Sun. 12-2 p.m. — Katherine Krevor & Pfashema Faber
    “Kick off the new year in your cozy city oasis. This home just underwent a $100,000 refresh that includes recently installed oak hardwood floors, fresh paint, modern kitchen cabinets, quartz countertops and ss appliances with a gas range, plus a built-in banquet for additional storage, artwork display, and perfect for your bar/buffet for entertaining.”
  • 2804 Rhode Island Avenue NE — $1,150,025 — Woodridge
    Open Sun. 1:30-3:30 p.m. — Alexandra Williams & Molly Branson
    “The most exclusive house on the block is back on the market and has all the comforts you deserve in a high-level living experience. This home has it all; outdoor living, breathtaking views from the fourth-level Penthouse, safety and room for play (inside and out).”
  • 915 E Street NW #611 — $375,000 — Penn Quarter
    Open Sun. 12-2 p.m. — Steve Gaich
    “Welcome home to this spacious 1 bedroom condo located in the vibrant and lively neighborhood of Penn Quarter. This unit has been updated with brand new floors and paint throughout the entire space.”
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