Sponsored

Meet Femly, a Maryland Brand Increasing Access to Organic Cotton Pads & Tampons in Restrooms

By PoP Sponsor (a)

With a first-of-its-kind wall-mounted dispenser for schools, businesses, and more, Femly is a game-changer!

How often have you or someone you love missed class, work, or an important event because of their period? Would having access to products at school or your office make a difference? We believe it would! Though “period poverty” is a real and serious concern for millions of women who cannot afford hygiene products, the restroom vending experience has not changed meaningfully.

Femly is a woman-owned, Maryland-based company with a first-of-its-kind smart touchless dispenser designed to increase free feminine care access in restrooms. While stainless steel dispensers in bathrooms around the country require money in exchange for hygiene products, Femly’s dispenser allows users to walk up and wave “hello” to receive Femly’s 100% organic cotton menstrual pads and tampons at no cost to the user.

“Selling period care online and providing our dispenser in schools and business goes beyond being thoughtful; it’s good for business and supports students, employees, and visitors in such a meaningful way,” says Arion Long, CEO of Femly. Long further shares, “…we are launching our dispensers at the perfect time with the implementation of the ‘Period Equity Righting an Injustice of District Residents (PERIOD) Act of 2022’ and ‘Expanding Student Access to Period Products Act of 2022’ both of which are calling for the expansion of dispensers and free organic cotton period products in public and school settings.”

One current Femly customer shares, “[m]y overall experience so far has been a complete 360 from store-bought feminine products. From the packaging to the careful love put into these products. I haven’t had any leaking, these pads have great hold, so comfy, and cover your entire bottom… I’m even more confident wearing gray and white while mother nature is here.”

Information about purchasing Femly’s dispensers, organic pads, and tampons for restrooms can be found here. Click here for a special discount for readers for retail orders of $15 or more.

Vote For The Best Maid Service in DC

By PoP Sponsor (a)

Washington City Paper is hosting its annual Best of D.C. contest again, and readers are voting for their District favorites. One of the categories? Best maid service.

Well-Paid Maids was runner-up in 2019 and then secured first place in 2021 and again in 2022. (The contest paused in 2020 due to COVID.)

That brings us to 2023. We would love to win again this year — and that’s where we need your help!

Simply go to the ballot and write in your vote for the best maid service.

Before you vote, here’s some important information: Well-Paid Maids is the only living-wage cleaning company in D.C. We pay our W-2 employees (not contractors) at least $23 an hour and offer benefits like insurance, 24 paid days off per year and more. 

It’s a cleaner way of doing business in an infamously dirty industry.

Voting is open until July 10, and the winner will be announced August 15. (We’ll keep you posted!)

We can’t thank our PoPville readers enough for all the support through the years. You’re helping us prove our living-wage model can be successful in traditionally low-paying industries. 

P.S. If you still haven’t booked a spring cleaning yet, now is the time! Book today!

Free Paint Recycling Drop-off and Giveaway Event June 10

By PoP Sponsor (a)

PaintCare will host a one-day paint drop-off and giveaway event for District households and businesses on Saturday, June 10 at Ida B. Wells Middle School (405 Sheridan St NW, Washington, D.C. 20011) between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Read a complete list of accepted products, check business limits, and register online by visiting paint-wells-middle.eventbrite.com.

Households may bring most types of paint, stain, and varnish in any amount. Paint must be in sealed container with original manufacturer label. We cannot accept aerosols, solvents, and other hazardous waste.

Event attendees will also be able to browse partially filled containers of a variety of products including latex- and oil-based paints, primers, and stains. Color options and volumes are not guaranteed. Paint is given away on a first come, first served basis.

To use PaintCare drop-off sites and events for oil-based products, a business must qualify as an exempt generator under federal and any analogous state hazardous waste generator rules. Please visit paintcare.org/VSQG for more information on exempt generator rules. If your business does not qualify as an exempt generator, it can use PaintCare drop-off sites and events for water-based products but not oil-based products.

If you cannot make this event, households and businesses can also drop off paint year-round at 9 locations throughout the District of Columbia. Find a drop-off site near you by visiting paintcare.org or calling (855)PAINT09.

Capital Exotic Fish: DC’s Store for Specialty Fish, Tanks and Supplies!

By PoP Sponsor (a)
1/5

The only family run aquarium store in D.C.

When you walk into Capital Exotic Fish you’ll find breeding pairs of African Cichlids, Discus, along with smaller animals such as shrimp and Nano fish. We emphasize sustainability and environmental stewardship, and 80% of our fish are born and raised domestically and often, locally.

We offer a wide selection of live plants, tanks, accessories, and handmade and painted wooden stands. CEF is a one-stop shop store, offering aquarium and pond installations, maintenance, and cleaning. Our experienced aquarists will come to your home or business and work to ensure your every need is met!

Need a custom order? CEF can custom order fish you desire including hard to acquire larger fish for advanced and sophisticated hobbyists.

Capital Exotic Fish also provides two Chill Zones, where you’ll find sofas, oriental rugs, and show-fish exhibits (e.g., Arowana, platinum gar, and peacock bass) in tanks up to 600 gallons. Intimate evening classes for beginners are also offered as well as classes hosting by world-renowned aquascaper Hiep Hong — ranked third in the World.

We are continually expanding to satisfy our community. This summer we are launching an extensive saltwater department, and with our Grand Opening this past February, we’ve rapidly been closing in on 1,000 transactions!

Come in and meet our warm, friendly staff and let us assist with all of your aquatic needs!

Capital Exotic Fish offers discounts to Veterans and Law Enforcement. Capital Exotic Fish is located at 3404 Idaho Avenue, NW. Follow @capitalexoticfish on Instagram and Facebook to keep up with the latest news/inventory.

DC Open House List for This Weekend

By PoP Sponsor (a)

Returning to what appears to be a normal, non-holiday weekend with much warmer temperatures, there are nearly 350 open houses in the District scheduled over the next 2 days. Take a look at our suggested open houses below and to see the complete Open House List, click here.

  • 956 Shepherd Street NW — $1,350,000 — Petworth
    Open Sun. 12-2 p.m. — Fernando Garcia
    “SOLID SHEPHERD SHOWPLACE! Along tree-lined Shepherd Street, where the Columbia Heights and Petworth neighborhoods meld into a residential retreat, 956 Shepherd St. NW positively pops in its elegant black-and-white styling. We have, however, kept the alley-adjacent wall of this end-unit row home au naturel to show off the masterful repointing in brick red and white mortar. Once inside, you’ll appreciate all the natural light afforded by that same wall’s numerous windows. You’ll begin to make yourself at home as you step onto the wide front porch, complete with ceiling fan to make mid-summer lounging more comfortable. Once inside, the depth and width of this solidly renovated showplace will impress, as will the warm wood flooring and designer light fixtures. Past the living room, the kitchen is both efficient and elegant, with abundant built-in storage, to include a pantry, followed by formal dining and powder room. Up the original staircase, the second floor offers three bedrooms, topped with a new roof. To the front, the primary ensuite bedroom invites you to savor its vaulted ceiling, stunning chandelier, and accents in brick and wood. Midway back, you’ll find two more bedrooms and a second full bath. Off the rear bedroom, a covered balcony with engineered flooring is your secret sanctuary. The bottom level of this magnificent manse adds yet another private room, possibly the perfect home office, and a huge space for easy entertaining with ample wet bar and third full bath. Once you’ve made 956 Shepherd your home, however, you may be spending most of your time outside in the ridiculously deep, fenced back yard. From the main level, you’ll enter this oasis through sliding glass doors that lead first to a wide deck. Beyond, the back yard beckons, its pergola festooned with party lights. Notably, that back fence doesn’t mark the end of your yard, but the transition to the fenced parking pad. From top to bottom, front to back, this resolutely renovated Shepherd showplace welcomes you.”
  • 1328 L Street SE — $895,000 — Hill East
    Open Sat. 2-4 p.m. & Sun. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. — John Coleman
    “Welcome to this spacious and lovely 2-level home located at 1328 L St SE. With 1,640 square feet of living space, this bright residence offers the perfect blend of comfort and style.”
  • 800 21st Street NE #1 — $540,000 — Trinidad
    Open Sun. 1-3 p.m. — Michelle Doherty
    “Welcome to the most stunning and spacious 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom 2 level garden style condo unit with 1,100 sq. ft. in the highly sought-after H Street/Trinidad neighborhood. This unit boasts exceptional design and modern finishes that are sure to impress even the most discerning buyers.”
  • 706 Rock Creek Church Road NW #2 — $849,000 — Petworth
    Open Sat. & Sun. 1-5 p.m. — Jeff Reese
    “Stunning 3 BR/2.5 BA duplex offering an embassy sized layout, breathtaking private rooftop deck, and extremely high-end renovations in an amazing location with fantastic proximity to shopping, dining and the Metro. This home is *not* the typical cookie cutter condo. Starting with the layout, the main floor has multiple banks of enormous bay windows flooding the home with light.”
  • 1224 4th Street SW #7 — $1,074,900 — Southwest Waterfront
    Open Sat. 1-3 p.m. — Mehrnaz Bazargan
    “This Mid-century modern masterpiece awaits with incredible front and back private outdoor space and garage parking surrounded by everything there is to love about the Southwest Waterfront. You’ll be taken aback by the airiness of this stunning brick 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom with open floor layout, gleaming hardwood floors, exposed brick wall, tall ceilings and wowed by the natural light streaming in from the floor-to-ceiling windows with serene tree views creating an outdoor extension of the space.”
  • 2001 37th Street NW — $1,100,000 — Glover Park
    Open. Sat. 12-2 p.m. & Sun. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. — Molly Branson & Jocelyn Vas
    “Gorgeous Glover Park end unit rowhome featuring 2 bed and 2 full-baths with a den! Beautiful, solid hardwood maple flooring grace an open floor plan with abundant window light. Living room and dining room open to a wood burning fireplace.”

Legal Insider: Meeting with Security Clearance Investigators

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.

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.

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Real Estate Fresh Finds: May 31

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: 3920 New Hampshire Ave NW

“Introducing a charming row home nestled in the desirable PETWORTH NEIGHBORHOOD of NW Washington, D.C. This elegant residence offers a perfect blend of classic architectural design and modern amenities, providing an ideal urban retreat for those seeking comfort, convenience, and style. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a warm and inviting living space adorned with hardwood floors, creating a seamless flow throughout the home. The open-concept layout effortlessly combines the living, dining, and kitchen areas, perfect for both relaxing evenings and entertaining guests. Venture upstairs to discover three generously sized bedrooms, each providing a peaceful sanctuary to unwind after a long day. A shared full bathroom with modern fixtures and finishes completes the upper level. The lower level can be used as a lovely private suite with a full bath, and both interior and exterior access. This row home also features the highly sought-after convenience of a dedicated parking space, ensuring that you can easily come and go without the hassle of searching for street parking. In a city where parking is a premium, this is a true luxury. This home offers proximity to an array of amenities, including trendy shops, restaurants, parks, and entertainment options. Commuting is a breeze with easy access to public transportation to navigate the city with ease. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this beautiful row home your own!”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 5 BR/3 FB/2 HB detached “Historic Wardman” Federal-style brick home in Kalorama with 5,100+ total square feet spread across 4 levels and features 2 fireplaces, numerous built-ins, a bevy of unique wallpaper throughout, 2 levels of terraces and a theatre room — all for $4.2M.
  • “Semi-detached [3 BR/2.5 BA] charmer in the heart of Riggs Park. Recently painted throughout and refinished hardwood floors on the top two levels. Fully finished basement. Primary bathroom has its own bathroom and great Closet space. There are two additional bedrooms and each has ample closet space.”
  • “Gorgeous Glover Park end unit rowhome featuring 2 bed and 2 full-baths with a den! Beautiful, solid hardwood maple flooring grace an open floor plan with abundant window light. Living room and dining room open to a wood burning fireplace.”
  • Your REO/Bank-Owned Property of the Week is a “rarely available [4 BR/4.5 BA] three-level townhome in Foggy Bottom just blocks from the GW campus.”

Open Streets Is Taking Over 12th Street NE This Sunday!

By PoP Sponsor (a)
1/5

Open Streets is coming to 12th Street NE this Sunday June 4 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

All ages are invited for a day of family friendly activities as we close over a mile of 12th Street NE to cars and open it up to people! Join the live performances by Crush Funk Band, Phaze II Jazz Band and local DJ’s such as, John Murph, SHAVUNN xx and Adrian Loving. Plus, an array of outdoor fitness activities hosted by Competitive By Nature, ES Fit, Kangoo Bounce by Jamz Fitt, visit City Swing to participate in a fun golf simulation and so much more!

Open Streets 12th Street NE also offers bike tune-up clinics from Washington Area Bike Association and Open Streets Sponsor Capital Bikeshare, plus FREE helmets, swag, scooter and bike lessons plus rides from Open Streets sponsors LIME and LYFT.

Get active and dive into one of the many FREE wellness, yoga and fitness classes and presentations in the Open Streets Fitness Zones:

Fitness Zone at Randolph Street

  • Kids on the Move (Modern Dance Class)
  • Capoeira DC (Capoeira lessons)
  • ES Fit (function fit class)

Fitness Zone at Newton Street

  • Dancing Divas DC (Zumba class)
  • Competitive by Nature (HIIT Fit class)
  • ASA! Fit (African dance fitness class)
  • JamzFit (Kangoo Bounce)

Yoga Zone at Irving Street

  • BlueBird Sky (sound bowl and breathe meditation)
  • Kimmie K Hoop (hoop fitness)
  • Rumble Boxing (shadow boxing/HIIT Training)

Open Streets helps inspire people to think differently about their streets by encouraging physical activity, creating recreational opportunities, fostering community building, and education to demonstrate the District’s commitment to multimodal transportation. Visit the link for a full map of activities.

Follow @ddotdc for updates!

5 Ways Well-Paid Maids Isn’t Your Average Home Cleaning Company

By PoP Sponsor (a)

When you think about hiring a cleaning company, you might grimace. The average cleaning company doesn’t have the best reputation. The industry is known for pushing cleaners to work long hours for little pay.

But Well-Paid Maids isn’t your average cleaning company.

Here’s why:

  1. Well-Paid Maids pays cleaners fair, living wages starting at $23/hour. And the company routinely increases that number to keep up with the high cost of living. The median hourly wage for cleaners in the D.C. area is $17.03.
  2. Well-Paid Maids cleaners are W-2 employees. That means they get access to benefits like paid family and medical leave, workers’ comp and more. The average cleaning company misclassifies cleaners as contractors, which denies them access to these benefits.
  3. Well-Paid Maids gives cleaners a card to pay for commuting costs and supplies. The average cleaning company makes cleaners pay for their own transportation and supplies.
  4. Well-Paid Maids uses green cleaning products to ensure employees’ safety — and your own. The average cleaning company opts for harsh chemicals, which can be hazardous.
  5. Well-Paid Maids believes in giving cleaners flexibility — so much so the founder met with the U.S. Department of Labor to discuss the importance of workplace flexibility. The average cleaning company wants cleaners to complete as many jobs as possible to boost its bottom line.

Want to see the difference for yourself? Well-Paid Maids makes it easy to book your home cleaning online!

Three Local Crafters Launch Kickstarter to Bring Local Craft Store & Community Space to DC

By PoP Sponsor (a)

A new retail and community space for hobby crafters is coming to Northwest D.C. — Merry Pin.

Merry Pin will be a space where hobby crafters of all ages and experience levels can buy supplies, learn, and craft together with friends and neighbors. To bring the space to Ward 4, Merry Pin is raising funds on Kickstarter and needs your support!

The three co-owners behind the project — Megan Flynn, Madeleine Odendahl, and Michele Molotsky — are all avid hobby crafters themselves and noticed that D.C. lacked local options for hobby crafters to get supplies and to meet up in-person to craft together.

“While there are a few craft-related stores in D.C., they are all very specialized — like yarn stores or high-end art supplies,” says Madeleine. “And there aren’t really any spaces where people can gather to work on their crafts together without being afraid to make a mess.”

Merry Pin will feature a mix of high end, affordable, and upcycled/consigned products; crafting workshops and experiences; equipment, like sewing and cricut machines, that you can rent on-site; and snacks and beverages to bring people together.

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