Dear PoPville


Photo by PoPville flickr user angela n.

“Dear PoPville,

We’re in the process of designing our 2020 spring gardens for our NE row house. In the past I’ve planted tons of bulbs (dahlias, gladiolus, peonies) but this year would like to try something new. We have some hot pink knockout roses but otherwise are working with a blank canvas. What are everyone’s favorite garden plants that can survive a full sun DC summer?”


Crime

A reader reports: “Just want to warn folks about a group of young males (maybe 10-12) on JUMP Bikes accosting people South of H ST NE & West of Kingsman Park. I was driving Tuesday (3/17) down 14th ST NE when I came to the stop sign (F ST NE) where they were stopped on the corner at 3:34pm. My window was rolled down and one of the kids yelled “THE F*** YOU LOOKING AT” then punched me in the face. Filed a police report but MPD said these guys have been wreaking havoc all week. If everyone could keep an eye out & stay safe out there!”


Animal Fix

If you have any animal/pet photos you’d like to share please send an email to princeofpetworth(at)gmail(dot)com with ‘Animal Fix’ in the title and say the name of your pet and your neighborhood.  If you love the animal fix and want to ensure PoPville’s long term viability please consider donating to our Patreon here.

“Bud from Cleveland Park enjoying a sliver of afternoon sun.”

“Edna’s invisibility sweater”


Sponsored

This article is sponsored by RLAH @properties.

1416 Geranium Street NW
1416 Geranium Street NW

DC Open House List for This Weekend: May 15, 2026

Spring is in full bloom across the District this weekend, and with over 354 open houses across the city, there’s no shortage of places to wander into between brunch and an afternoon stroll along the Potomac. Whether you’re house-hunting in earnest or just curious to peek behind a few front doors, it’s the perfect weekend to step inside. To see the full DC Open House list, click here.

  • 1416 Geranium St NW — $1,100,000 — Shepherd Park
    Open Fri. 5-7PM, Sat. & Sun. 2-4PM — Jason Lallis
    “1416 Geranium Street NW — Spanish/Mediterranean Style in Shepherd Park. Tucked into one of Northwest DC’s most established neighborhoods, this Spanish/Mediterranean-inspired stucco home stands apart from the typical DC housing stock. With its classic clay tile roof, clean lines, and warm architectural character, it offers a rare blend of design and livability. Inside, 9’+ ceilings and hardwood floors create a bright, open feel throughout the main level. The living space is anchored by a wood-burning fireplace and framed by oversized windows, bringing in natural light and enhancing the home’s inviting flow.”

  • 3422 Pennsylvania Ave SE — $939,900 — Hillcrest
    Open Sat. 12-2PM — Stephanie Cooper
    “Price Improvement. Assumable FHA Loan at 4.875%. Welcome to your dream home on Pennsylvania Avenue — a stunning, thoughtfully renovated four-level, 5-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence that seamlessly blends timeless charm with modern luxury in the heart of the Hillcrest/Penn Branch neighborhood. From the moment you arrive, the transformation is undeniable. The refreshed exterior, highlighted by premium Hardie board siding and a newly constructed Trex front porch, creates an inviting first impression and a stylish outdoor retreat.”

  • 5309 14th St NW — $1,095,000 — 16th Street Heights
    Open Sun. 1-3PM — Denny Horner & Leyla Phelan
    “Beautifully updated and well-maintained Tudor home in desirable 16th St Heights neighborhood, featuring 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, lovely & spacious living spaces, a huge lot, and a two-car garage. Best of both urban convenience and calming residential vibes. The main level offers a comfortable living room with wood-burning fireplace, a dining room, a gorgeous sunroom facing the backyard, a powder room, and a renovated kitchen that boasts newer Calacatta Laza Quartz countertops, Williamsburg white shaker cabinets, brushed champagne and bronze hardware and stainless-steel appliances.”

  • 50 Florida Ave NE #725 — $624,900 — Eckington
    Open Sat. 1-3PM — Mandy Hursen & Tim Hursen Jr.
    “Elevated city living at The Lexicon, NoMa’s premier full-service building! This home comes complete with garage parking ($45K value) and extra storage ($10K value) included. Perched on the coveted NW corner of the 7th floor, this 2BR/2BA stunner delivers front-row views of downtown DC. Inside, it’s all clean lines and modern luxury—floor-to-ceiling windows, wide-plank white oak floors, and a sleek open layout designed for real living and effortless entertaining. The kitchen impresses with GE stainless steel appliances, gas range, Calacatta quartz, and an oversized island.”

  • 1349 Otis Pl NW — $974,900 — Columbia Heights
    Open Sat. & Sun. 1-3PM — Kevin Wood
    “Welcome to 1349 Otis Place NW, a classic 3BR/2BA Wardman house that beautifully blends historic Washington character with modern sustainability and convenience in the heart of Columbia Heights. Showcasing the timeless craftsmanship and original charm that define Wardman houses, the property features rich architectural details alongside energy-efficient solar panels and a detached garage complete with an EV charging station. The house offers exceptional outdoor living with a welcoming front yard, a covered front porch, a large private rear patio and deck perfect for entertaining, and a separate front basement entrance.”

  • 3612 Jamison St NE — $835,000 — Fort Lincoln
    Open Sat. 2-4PM & Sun. 1-3PM — Brittany Dixon
    “Welcome to this beautifully maintained and thoughtfully updated townhome in the sought-after The Reserves at Dakota Crossings, where modern comfort meets a peaceful, community-oriented setting. Offering 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths across four well-designed levels, this home delivers exceptional space, flexibility, and style. At the heart of the home, the expansive kitchen shines as a true centerpiece, remodeled in 2024 with striking white quartz countertops, abundant cabinetry, and generous prep space. The open-concept main level is ideal for everyday living and entertaining.”

  • 508 Kenyon St NW — $849,900 — Columbia Heights
    Open Sun. 2-4PM — David Bediz
    “Welcome to 508 Kenyon St NW — a beautifully renovated four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath rowhome on a charming tree-lined street in the heart of Park View. Thoughtfully updated across three finished levels, this home offers the perfect blend of modern style, flexible living space, and income-generating potential. The main and upper levels have been extensively renovated since purchase, featuring freshly refinished hardwood floors, fresh paint, and stylish modern finishes throughout. The updated kitchen showcases sleek two-tone cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, contemporary tilework, and direct access to the private rear patio and secure off-street parking for two cars.”

  • 567 Ingraham St NE — $689,995 — Riggs Park
    Open Sun. 11AM-1PM — Michele Collison
    “Walk to the Metro from this Riggs Park rowhouse that offers the perfect blend of classic elegance and modern comfort. This 4 bedroom/3.5 baths also has an au-pair suite and is close to a public library, restaurants and shopping. Built in 1955 and meticulously maintained, this home stands as a testament to timeless design and quality craftsmanship. This contemporary residence provides ample space for both relaxation and entertaining. As you step inside, you are greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, enhanced by the rich brick exterior that exudes character and charm.”

  • 332 N Street SW — $350,000 — Waterfront
    Open Sun. 1-3PM — Joseph Himali
    “Own a world-renowned architect’s masterpiece for under $4,500 a month! Charles Goodman’s River Park is one of Washington’s great mid-century treasures, conceived by the Reynolds Aluminum Company to prove what modern design and materials could achieve. This stunning three-bedroom, three-level townhouse is the proof, and it can be yours for less than most people pay for a two-bedroom apartment. The bright main level features refinished hardwood floors, custom electric roller shades, sliding glass doors to a private fenced patio, and WiFi-enabled Lutron recessed lighting.”

  • 3450 Summit Ct NE #3450 — $335,000 — Fort Lincoln
    Open Sat. 12-2PM & Sun. 1-3PM — Mandy Hursen & Tim Hursen Jr.
    “Completely renovated penthouse condo delivers space, style, and value in one irresistible package. Step inside to a light-filled home with soaring vaulted ceilings and skylights that make every day feel open and airy. The expansive two-bedroom layout offers true flexibility, while newer flooring throughout keeps everything feeling fresh, modern, and move-in ready. The kitchen and bath have been fully renovated with clean, contemporary finishes that elevate the entire space. A cozy woodburning fireplace adds warmth and character, while the oversized private balcony—stretching the full length of the home—sets the scene for relaxing afternoons.”

  • 2412 17th St NW #305 — $575,000 — Kalorama
    Open Sat. 11:30AM-1:30PM — Denny Horner & Leyla Phelan
    “Welcome to one of DC’s most sought-after neighborhoods and this sun-drenched, two-bedroom, one-bathroom condo. With hardwood floors and crisp, neutral tones, this contemporary home is truly move-in ready. The open floor plan creates an effortless flow between the living and dining areas — ideal for entertaining or simply enjoying the expansive feel. The gourmet kitchen boasts new flooring, Silestone quartz counters, stainless steel appliances, maple cabinets, and a great flow. High ceilings and large windows with custom shades flood the space with natural light throughout the day.”

  • 1512 F St NE #2 — $599,900 — Kingman Park
    Open Sun. 1-3PM — Mandy Hursen & Tim Hursen Jr.
    “A bright and airy two-level condo that feels more like a private home, offering nearly 1,400 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. Step inside to soaring ceilings, rich Brazilian wood floors, and refined contemporary finishes that blend sophistication with everyday comfort. The standout kitchen features granite counters, stainless steel appliances, a stylish backsplash, generous cabinetry, and a breakfast bar for four—ready for everything from quiet mornings to lively gatherings. With 3 bedrooms and 3 full baths, the layout is as flexible as it is functional, including a main-level bedroom and bath plus upstairs laundry for everyday ease.”


grocery stores


Photo by PoPville flickr user hellomarkers!

Ed. Note: Yesterday we noted: Whole Foods Changes Hours, Store is exclusively for those 60 years and older from 7-8am everyday.

From Giant:

Effective Friday, March 20, Giant Food of Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia and Delaware will offer dedicated shopping hours for senior citizens 60-and-older and individuals with compromised immune systems. Every store in our operating areas will reserve 6:00-7:00 a.m., every day of the week for this vulnerable population to shop and practice social distancing. The stores will operate on regular hours of operation during all other times. We continue to work on restocking our shelves and will be ready to serve to the best of our ability.”

And another reader sends from Target:

“Beginning March 18, all stores will close at 9 p.m. local time to allow even more time for teams to clean and restock store shelves

Also beginning March 18, Target will reserve the first hour of shopping each Wednesday at stores nationwide for vulnerable guests – including elderly and those with underlying health concerns. We are encouraging other guests to plan their shopping trips around this timeframe.”

From Safeway:

“As the situation around Coronavirus continues to unfold, Safeway Eastern Division stores in Maryland, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Delaware are joining Albertsons Companies 2,200+ stores nationwide, to provide special hours for some of our most vulnerable neighbors.

Senior citizens and other at-risk populations, such as pregnant women or those with compromised immune systems, have been advised to avoid leaving home as much as possible, and to avoid crowds.

Safeway Eastern Division stores will reserve every Tuesday and Thursday from 7 AM until 9 AM for those vulnerable shoppers who must leave home to obtain their groceries.

We are asking that our customers help us reserve this shopping time for those most at risk in our communities. We thank our customers in advance for their compassion and understanding toward their neighbors and friends, and in helping us maintain this temporary operations guideline.

Store hours are being updated continuously on our websites. For the best information on when your local store is open, please visit www.safeway.com for your local store’s details and website.”


quality of life

Thanks to Sam a lam for sending from H Street, NE above.

Covid Christmas Trees are everywhere!! Thanks to Kristen for sending the above from Hill East.

Thanks to Allie for sending “Tim the Tree from Capital Hill” above.

And thanks to John Denver forever.


DC Government

“Dear PoPville,

I am a commission based stylist at a popular salon in DC and I made the personal choice to stop working on Friday night until April first, and at that point I will reevaluate the situation. As many of us in the industry, we are scared to work on clients for fear of getting or spreading the virus. We also don’t get paid if we don’t work and basically no salons in the DC area provide paid time off or sick leave. This puts us in a difficult position. My salon decided to close on Monday until next Tuesday and I got word today that he is planning on opening back up then. He has given us all the choice whether we want to come back in or not, however we will have to provide our own masks and hand sanitizer. If we opt out of working and the government hasn’t shut us down we will not be able to receive unemployment benefits.

I am reaching out to ask you to promote this petition I have created to ask the mayor to enact a shelter in place order for the next 2 weeks. Much like the one San Francisco and Nevada just implemented.”


Politics


Photo by PoPville flickr user Shamila Chaudhary

From Congresswoman Norton’s office:

“Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) today sent a letter to the Office of Management and Budget and the Office of Personnel Management urging them to extend paid leave for teleworking federal employees to allow them to care for family members during the coronavirus pandemic. The letter asks for teleworking employees to have up to 15 hours per week to care for family members, such as children whose schools are closed.

“As federal employees care for children who must be kept home from school during this unprecedented pandemic, it is important that these teleworking employees are given time to care for their family members,” Norton said. “Allowing these employees an extra 15 hours of leave per week will help ensure that these federal employees are able to continue their vital work while caring for their families.”

The letter follows: (more…)


Dear PoPville

“Dear PoPville,

How are you celebrating your wedding despite the crisis? Our dream wedding was scheduled for May 2 and will now not be able to take place the way we planned.

Looking for creative solutions or nice ways to celebrate. We’re likely going to go to City Hall and get married on our scheduled wedding day and plan a party for later.”


schools


via Change.org

Ed. Note: Earlier we learned that Howard University had also canceled their commencement.

Emily shares: “Petition · Reschedule GWU Class of 2020’s Graduation on the Mall”

The petition says:

“Hello! GW’s graduating class of 2020 just found out that graduation will most likely be virtual. While this isn’t unreasonable with the spread of the coronavirus, the national mall ceremony is something that all of us have been working towards for 4 years. Sign this petition to send GWU the message that we want them to commit to rescheduling a proper ceremony for the graduating class of 2020! While we most definitely need to be practicing social distancing at this time, we have worked too hard to miss out on getting to walk on the national mall! Let’s offer a reasonable alternative: we push the ceremony to late summer or fall. We deserve an in-person ceremony once it is safe to do so!”

There are currently over 5200 signatories.