East of the River Magazine – February 2025 by Capital Community News

Plans Outlined for New Jail Construction: ANC 7D Report by Sarah Payne

Pepco Asked to Explain Fatal Shock to Pet: ANC 8F Report by Elizabeth O’Gorek

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Elizabeth Catlett: A Black Revolutionary Artist at the NGA

One of the defining artists of the 20th century, Elizabeth Catlett addressed the injustices she witnessed and experienced in America and Mexico through her bold prints and dynamic sculptures. From March 9 to July 6, see more than 150 of her creations in this exhibition, including rarely seen paintings and drawings at the National Gallery of Art. Trace the career of this cultural force—from her roots in Washington, DC, Chicago, and New York to the remarkable body of work she made during some 60 years in Mexico. In striving to make art for the people, Catlett put social justice at the very center of her work. nga.gov.

ABOVE: Elizabeth Catlett, J. K. Fine Art Editions Co., Joseph Kleineman, Maureen Turci, Links Together, 1996, lithograph on wove Arches paper, Purchased as the Gift of Art Information Volunteers in Honor of Dianne Stephens, 2021.63.1

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

Timeless Mucha: The Magic of Line at the Phillips

Timeless Mucha: The Magic of Line reappraises the work of Art Nouveau pioneer Alphonse Mucha (b. 1860, Ivančice, Moravia, Austrian Empire; d. 1939, Prague, Czechoslovakia) and explores his impact on graphic art since the 1960s. This exhibition provides an opportunity to survey the development of Mucha’s style, and to explore how his art was rediscovered by later generations of artists. Mucha was a key influence on Psychedelic Art of the 1960s–70s, as well as on a wide range of visual culture from the late 20th century to today, exemplified by American comics, Japanese manga, and street murals. Phillips Collection, 1600 21st St. NW, from Feb. 22 to May 18. Adult admission is $20; seniors, $15; students and educators, $10. phillipscollection.org.

Alphonse Mucha Rêverie 1897–98 Color lithograph 72.7 x 55.2 cm. Collection of the Mucha Trust

Capital City Blues Festival at DAR Constitution Hall

This year marks the 6th Annual Capital City Blues Festival. There’s no other way to put this: you won’t be able to find another show with as much flow and good vibes as this one. King George, Puka, and Pokey Bear are among the performers who are once again going to be on stage. This year, though, marks the first appearance for West Love. She’s looking to provide that much-needed girl’s touch on the night. Before you know it, you’ll be dancing in the aisles. Here’s the lineup for the Blues is Alright Tour: King George, Puka, Pokey Bear, West Love, Lenny Williams and JWONN. Tickets from $111. dar.org/ constitution-hall. Saturday, Feb. 22, 7 p.m. at DAR Constitution Hall, 1776 D St. NW.

Dom Flemons at Rams Head On Stage

Dom Flemons is known as “The American Songster” since his repertoire covers over one hundred years of American roots music. Flemons is a folk musician, Black country artist, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, music scholar, historian, actor, slam poet, podcaster, cultural commentator, influencer, and the creator, host, and producer of the American Songster Radio Show on WSM in Nashville, TN. Over the past 25 years, he has received major awards, gained world-wide media recognition and has become one of the most influential and highly decorated voices in American roots music. Rams Head On Stage, 33 West St., Annapolis MD, on Tuesday, Feb. 11, 7:30 p.m., doors at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $35 plus tax and fees for this 21+ performance. ramsheadonstage.com.

District Winter Beer Fest at Union Market

On Saturday, Feb. 22, noon to 9 p.m., try the best beer in town, all under the same roof: Specially curated seasonal beers, with a soundtrack provided by live entertainment at Dock5 inside Union Market, 1309 Fifth St. NE. This is a fun environment for beer lovers & friends with a limited ticket capacity. There are two sessions—noon to 4 p.m. and 5 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $35 to $49. districtbeerfest.com.

Kunene and the King at Shakespeare

A celebrated classical actor has just been given a careerdefining role as King Lear and a life-changing diagnosis— and Lunga Kunene (John Kani) has been charged with his care. As Jack Morris (Edward Gero) confronts his mortality, two men brought together by necessity discover the unifying power of Shakespeare a quarter century after the fall of apartheid. Written and performed by Tony-winner John Kani (Black Panther, The Island, Sizwe Banzi is Dead), Edward Gero (The Lehman Trilogy) joins in the play’s US premiere. Tickets start at $35. Kunene and the King is at STC’s Klein Theater, 450 Seventh St. NW, from Feb. 16 to March 16. shakespearetheatre.org.

Story, Movement and Sound at the Atlas INTERSECTIONS Festival

The Atlas Performing Arts Center’s INTERSECTION Festival is a month-long celebration of innovative and inspiring performances, running from Feb. 15 through March 16. Enjoy performances of story, movement, and sound over five weekends. Now in its 16th year, the festival transforms the H Street Corridor into a hub for artistic expression, inviting audiences of all ages to engage with a diverse lineup of performances in the genres of story, movement, and sound. Tickets are $25 to $32. Festival three and five performance passes are available also. atlasarts.org/intersections2025.

Dr. John Kani is Lunga Kunene

Liberated Muse performs at the Festival on March 2, 5 p.m.

Dom Flemons demonstrates the pipes at the 2019 Philadelphia Folk Festival.

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

How to Be a Power Player: Tudor Edition

Social climbing was a competitive sport in Tudor England, requiring a complex range of skills, strategies, and techniques. How to Be a Power Player: Tudor Edition invites visitors into a world of lace ruffs, jousting, hawks, bad handwriting, scandal and political factions. Experience the playbooks, the people, and the spectacular fails, as courtiers tried to navigate the minefield of working for a boss who could shower you with riches or chop off your head. Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 East Capitol St. SE, from Feb. 21 through July 2025. folger.edu/visit/exhibitions.

Imo Nse Imeh: Monuments to Our Skies at the NAS

During the summer of 2020—amid the pandemic, lockdowns, and widespread displays of racially motivated violence that appeared on screens across the United States—artist Imo Nse Imeh was deeply engaged with questions of faith, trust, belief, and redemption, particularly in the context of Black communities. Monuments to Our Skies is the result. Each canvas in this series offers a unique combination of material and form. At the National Academy of Sciences, 2101 Constitution Ave. NW, through July 1. Government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport is required for entry. cpnas.org.

DC Art Science Evening Rendezvous (DASER): Health and Wellness in the Black Community

DC Art Science Evening Rendezvous (DASER) is organized by the National Academy of Sciences, to explore several key questions: What are the relationships among art, science, technology, culture, and all related disciplines or systems of understanding?

In celebration of Black History Month and Imo Nse Imeh’s exhibition, Monuments to Our Skies, on Thursday, Feb. 20, 6 to 9:15 p.m., join the National Academy of Sciences, 2101 Constitution Ave. NW, for a conversation about health and wellness in the Black community. The event features talks by Nii Addy, Albert E. Kent Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Associate Professor of Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine; Imo Nse Imeh, Artist and Associate Professor of Art and Art History, Westfield State University among others. Government-issued photo ID is required for entry. Please register. cpnas.org/exhibitionsevents/events/dc-art-scienceevening-rendezvous.

The Age of Innocence at Arena

When Countess Ellen Olenska escapes Europe and a cruel past, only to find herself trapped behind the suffocating gilded cage of New York society and in love with the man engaged to her cousin May, she battles privilege, desire, and tradition in pursuit of her own destiny. Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SW, from Feb. 28 to March 30. Tickets start at $59. Savings programs are at arenastage.org/tickets/ savings-programs.

How to Be a Power Player: Tudor Edition invites visitors into a world of lace ruffs, jousting, hawks, bad handwriting, scandal and political factions.

RIOT! Funny Women Stand Up at KC

On Wednesday, March 5, 8 p.m., join the Kennedy Center for RIOT!

Funny Women Stand Up, a special comedy event in celebration of Women’s History Month and featuring an all-female lineup. Leading performers from across the comedic landscape come together to celebrate women in the arts through laughter. After sold-out performances in 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, and 2024 RIOT! has become a national platform for female artists to embrace creative risk and emphasize their perspective in our rapidly evolving culture. Tickets price range is $33 to $68. kennedy-center.org.

US Department of the Interior Museum (a hidden gem)

The Interior Museum opened on March 8, 1938, within the US Department of the Interior’s newly constructed headquarters building at 1849 C St. NW. The museum was a first for an Executive-branch Department and was heralded as an innovative approach to making a large, complex Federal agency more transparent and publicly accessible. While the Interior Museum’s collections have grown, and appearances have changed since 1938, the museum’s mission has remained the same: to inspire and educate employees and visitors about the Department’s ongoing stewardship of the nation’s public lands, heritage, and natural resources. All visitors enter through the building’s C Street lobby. Open weekdays (except federal holidays) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. All visitors over 18 years of age are required to present a valid, government-issued photo ID to enter the building. doi.gov.

Mother Tongue Film Festival: Singing Back the Buffalo

What If Fungi Win? A Conversation with Dr. Arturo

Casadevall

From the delicious to the deadly, fungi—which share 50% of our DNA—present a wide range of benefits, and threats, to human health, many of which remain unexplored. Could fungal pathogens outsmart us before we find ways to combat them?

On March 4, 6 to 8 p.m., at the Bloomberg Hopkins Center, 555 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Dr. Arturo Casadevall takes up this question and discusses his latest book, What If Fungi Win?, in conversation with Emily Kwong, founder and co-host of NPR science podcast Short Wave. Books will be available for purchase and signing from East City Bookshop at a reception following the program. Free but registration is required. washingtondc.jhu.edu/events/upcoming-events.

The Smithsonian’s Mother Tongue Film Festival celebrates cultural and linguistic diversity by showcasing films and filmmakers from around the world, highlighting the crucial role languages play in our daily lives. Celebrate the Festival’s tenth anniversary with ten days of free programming: in person in Washington, DC, from Thursday, Feb. 20 to Sunday, Feb. 23 and online February 24 to March 1. The festival spotlights new feature-length films, short film programs and other forms of digital storytelling, Q&A sessions with directors and a filmmakers roundtable discussion. Films featured over the decade of the Festival will also be screened. Learn more on the festival’s website at mothertongue.si.edi.

The Scenarios at Studio Angie, an actor, has just landed her weirdest gig yet: improvising scenes with active-duty cops, helping to train them to respond to people in acute mental crisis. But when the backstage tensions and workplace hijinks begin to pull focus from the training’s actual goal—to save lives— Angie tries making things a little more real. Funny and compassionate, this world premiere looks at the intricacies of empathy and asks what it costs to pretend to be someone else.

Studio Theatre, 1501 14th St. NW, from Feb. 26 to April 6. Tickets start at $55 with discounts available. Studiotheatre.org.

Mica Cap, Shiny Cap or Glistening Inky Cap, Coprinellus micaceus, Family: Psathyrellaceae, Location: Germany, Erbach, Ringingen

by Matthew McClure

Living it up

Withsomuchart,cultureand greatfoodinAnacostia, why spend time anywhere else?

nacostia is a constantly shifting cultural landscape. Walk its streets with us as we catch up with legacy stakeholders and new additions, check out some art, browse local shops and grab a bite to eat.

Art to Go-Go Shuttle

Skyland Town Center, Congress Heights Station, St. Elizabeth’s E Parking Garage, Anacostia Reserve Parking, Anacostia Metro Station, W & MLK Parking Lot, 13th & S St SE. www.anacostiabid.org

Two free shuttle services on 25 minute loops makes getting around Anacostia a breeze. Running Mon thru Friday, 7-11 a.m., Winter evening hours: 3-7 p.m. (4-8 p.m. from March 9).

ABOVE: Art All Night 2024. Photo courtesy Jeremy Reaves

FAR RIGHT: The Art to Go-Go shuttle.

Photo courtesy Jeremy Reaves.

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At to Go-Go Diary 2025 www.anacostiabid.org

February 26: Second anniversary of the O cial Anacostia Arts & Culture District

March thru June: Annual Spoken Word to Go-Go Championship.

May 17: Annual Anacostia River Festival

May 17: SPRINGTIME in Anacostia

June: National BBQ Battle

Anacostia Arts Center

1231 Marion Barry Ave SE www.anacostiaartscenter.com

This community hub has been a focus of Anacostia art and culture for over ten years. Soak up personalized style consultations at Vintage & Charmed, check out the literature selection at Mahogany Books and grab tasty veggie snacks at ELife vegan restaurant. This month, enjoy House hits from DJ RBI at Afro House: Spirit Fest on the 22nd while vibing to a performance by Cobaya Dance Theater and perusing products on o er at the Creative Marketplace. On February 25th, BrickRose Exchange founder and AI and business strategy expert Bianca Jackson will take the mystery out of Arti cial Intelligence by teaching you how to use a personalized AI assistant to streamline your business and make accomplishing simple tasks so much easier.

Anacostia Murals Project

The Anacostia BID in partnership with MuralsDC worked with 12 mural and gra ti artists to create 12 artworks that adorn the urban landscape throughout Anacostia.

Artist: Luis Del Valle

Mural: Our History Now and in the Future

Location: 1762 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE IG: @luis202artist Luis Del Valle is a familiar face in Anacostia. He recently curated Woven Thread 6.0 at the Anacostia Arts Center and his exuberant murals embellish the walls of schools east of the river. His mural at the entrance to Old Anacostia is a tribute to the people who have called this neighborhood home. “I really wanted to capture the history of Anacostia, starting with the Nacotchtank Native Americans.” Del Valle explains that he worked with Dr. Gabrielle Tayac, an historian and curator at the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, to obtain accurate source material for his depiction of a member of the tribe that once lived nearby on the shores of the Anacostia River. “That was instrumental in getting the correct dress, accessories.

That’s all very important.” Del Valle’s work educates through beauty. “I try to bring information so that people can appreciate it. I like to paint friends, family and community members.” You’ll recognize historical gures like “DC’s Mayor for Life” Marion Barry and abolitionist Frederick Douglass, but also the everyday citizens that live, work and play in Anacostia.

Artist: Jay Coleman

Mural: Three Kings of Anacostia

Location: 1708 Marion Barry Ave SE

IG: @jayfcoleman

Coleman’s signature bold and bright style is used to great e ect to commemorate three African American civil rights stalwarts whose names have been given to three major SE Avenues: Marion S. Barry, Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.

The Anacostia Arts Center. Photo courtesy Jeremy Reaves

Luis Del Valle with his mural Our History Now and in the Future. Photo courtesy Luis Del Valle.

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Artist: Darius Hill

Mural: Anacostia

Location: 1805 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE IG: dlime_ent1

Anacostia native Darius Hill’s work aims to “put Anacostia on the map. To shine a light on di erent things in Anacostia.” Positioned at the entrance to the neighborhood, Hill’s large-scale yellow letters proudly announce that you’ve arrived.

Artist: El Mac

Mural: Unique Shining Light

Location: 2018 Shannon Pl SE

IG: @mac_arte

Miles MacGregor—or El Mac—is an LAbased artist who collaborated with Aise Born and Aniekan Udo a on the large scale acrylic and spray painted mural adorning the new Department of Housing headquarters facing Shannon Pl SE. “The collaboration process is like making music, like jazz. You take turns letting each other do your thing,” explains El Mac as he remembers how a photoshoot with kids from nearby Savoy Elementary led to little Unique Lynch being chosen as the adorable face beaming down from within a radiant, multi-coloured halo amidst a sea of calming blue. El Mac’s work “is in uenced by

religious, devotional art. I enjoy painting regular people in a way that adds majesty.” He relishes the idea that passersby are able to superimpose the identities of their own friends and family onto the faces of the gures he renders. “My work is stylized in a way that’s hopefully a bit vague so that it can be interpreted as looking like a lot of people.”

Honfleur Gallery

1241 Marion Barry Ave SE

www.hon eurgallerydc.com

From January 25 to February 28, Hon eur Gallery will be exhibiting Love, Hope & Art Crimes, a gra ti and street art exhibition curated by Luis Del Valle who explains that his own early roots in gra ti culture inspired the show. “I started tagging the streets around 12, 13. At 16 I started getting serious about it, and that’s what opened the doors to me transitioning from illegal street art to being a paid muralist.” DC’s Commission on the Arts and Humanities has helped Del Valle create work but has also supported local artists through exhibitions such as this one. “They’ve allowed me to not only be an artist but be a curator. I get to work with well-known artists but also street artists that are still working in the shadows.” The exhibition will feature works by Del Valle himself, in addition to Steven Cummings, Miztarious, DECOY, Asad “ULTRA” Walker and others in a powerful con rmation of the transgressive, countercultural phenomenon of gra ti and street art that moved from gritty urban spaces into the hallowed halls of museums and art galleries in the 1980s. Check the gallery website and social media pages frequently for updates and details on public programming.

(Anacostia Murals Project) Photo: Artists El Mac and Aise Born in front of Unique Shining Light. Photo courtesy El Mac.

Opening of Love, Hope & Art Crimes at Hon eur Gallery. Photo courtesy Luis Del Valle.

Darius Hill’s mural titled Anacostia. Photo courtesy Matthew McClure.

Grounded

1913 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE www.feelgrounded.com

Enter an oasis of calm at Mignon Hemsley and Danuelle Doswell’s Grounded Plant Shop, Café and Wellness Studio. Proudly Black woman-owned, Grounded has been supplying businesses with indoor greenery for over five years online but this is their first physical space. “We like to think we have a plant in every major city in the US.” Hemsley smiles. “We’ve already given out over 500 free plants to the community here. Having Grounded in Anacostia was important to us in terms of making spaces greener east of the river.” The shop has been designed using Biophilic principles: Lots of natural light, soothing earth tones, organic materials, potted plants and gentle sensory stimulation. “What does it mean

Grounded. Photo courtesy Mignon Hemsley.

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to feel grounded and how can we communicate that in our business?” Doswell asks. She and Hemsley aim to impart wellness knowledge that you can take with you into your everyday life, whether that be “a breath or a stretch” so that they can help target DC’s mental and physical health challenges through the healing bene ts of plants and wellness activities like Reiki, breathwork and yoga. Ask Hemsley and Doswell about Grounded’s In nite Wellness Membership bene ts and don’t miss their Winter Wellness Expo on February 8.

Niche by Nubian Hueman

1241 Marion Barry Ave SE www.nubianhueman.com

Up an old wood staircase on a mezzanine level above Hon eur Gallery, you’ll discover a secret paradise lled with treasures from all over the world. Curated by Anika Hobbs, Niche by Nubian Hueman is a breath of fresh air in a personal care market often obsessed with excessive branding. Each product, from the aromatic 228 Grant Street Candle Co. candles to the snuggly sweaters depicting Mansa Musa and the Leyelesi handbags and jewelry are all personally selected by Hobbs. “We’ve worked with over

600 artists from about 35 countries and six di erent continents. The pieces that come in determine the art of the space. I love every piece that’s in the store.” Keep an eye on @nubianhueman on IG for details on an upcoming game night.

Sapodilla’s

1215 Marion Barry Ave SE www.sapodillas.com

American-Guyanese chef Samantha Abrams brings her substantial knowledge of community, entrepreneurship and empowerment to Sapodilla’s. “I’ve been working in and around DC since 2000. People east of the river deserve ne dining,” says Abrams, whose Fort Washington restaurant already does a bustling trade catering for private functions and the Congressional Black Caucus. “I felt a commitment to my parents to pay them back in some way and that’s why I wrote the business plan for Sapodilla’s back in 1999. They took a big risk to give us more opportunity.” Sapodilla’s is a personal tribute to Guyana’s culture and Abrams’s parents and grandmother, made possible through Mayor Bowser’s Food Access Fund. Everything from the drinks to the recipes, ingredients, artwork and bespoke furniture is Abrams’s history made tangible. Expect mouthwatering delicacies like fried jerk wings with mango habanero and tamarind BBQ, Scotch Bonnet ceviche, branzino ginger Creole sauce and curry goat from Executive Chef Ti any Jhingory’s kitchen. Come hungry.

Niche by Nubian Hueman. Photo: Dee Dwyer.

LEFT: Chef Samantha Abrams with Kristina Noell (Executive Director of the Anacostia BID) at the opening of Sapodilla’s. Photo courtesy Jeremy Reaves. RIGHT: Sapodilla’s. Photo courtesy Jeremy Reaves.

Go-Go Museum & Cafe

1920 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE www.gogomuseumcafe.com

There aren’t many genres of music that have experienced such stratospheric highs and devastating lows as DC’s own Go-Go music. Birthed by the Godfather of Go-Go Chuck Brown in 1976, this high tempo musical style is characterized by Hip-Hop, Funk, Soul and Afro-Caribbean influences incorporating audience call and response and was once criminalized due to unfounded associations with crime. Since 2020, however, Go-Go is the official music of Washington, DC and has inspired the branding of Anacostia as the city’s Arts & Culture District. Last November saw the opening of the country’s first museum dedicated to Go-Go music in long-overdue recognition of the importance and relevance of Go-Go as an integral and contemporary part of DC’s history. The museum—founded by Ronald Moten and co-curated by Natalie Hopkinson—features recorded oral histories, 16 interactive exhibits and even holographic representations of big Go-Go names like Anwan ‘Big G’ Glover and Gregory ‘Sugar Bear’ Elliot that use AI to share details of their histories and give context to the exhibitions. There’s also a full professional recording studio in the basement and an outdoor pavilion along with a café serving tasty cuisine from the African diaspora. Regular museum hours commence on February 19th.

Bridge District

600 Howard Rd SE

www.bridgedistrictdc.com

Towering above the nearby Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge, Redbrick LMD’s new mixed use residential development is set to welcome its first occupants this month. The Stratos, Poplar House and Alula apartment buildings are International Living Future Institute Zero Carbon Certified and offer incredible views of the Anacostia River and park, quick links to neighboring communities and the Anacostia Metro station is less than a mile away.

Andy’s Pizza, Atlas Brew Works and a new restaurant offering by Michelin-starred Chef Elias Taddesse will all open later this year but maybe the best news is that the Sandlot will reopen in spring and offer new food attractions alongside cultural activations and the famous outdoor live music that’s always drawn crowds. u

Opening of the Go-Go Museum & Café. Photo courtesy Anacostia BID.

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Theater Night

A curated review of theater in the DMV

by Matthew McClure

What makes a great leader? This weighty question looms large in our national discourse as a new presidential administration takes up the helm. For this month’s column, we’ve spoken to a kaleidoscope of cultural practitioners who have mastered their craft through a style of leadership characterized by diversity and di erence. Perhaps, as Roald Dahl’s Matilda eventually learns, our uniqueness can be our greatest advantage?

In the Spotlight

Matilda the Musical, Little Theatre of Alexandria Showing Feb 8 – Mar 1 www.thelittletheatre.com

When you’re born a little di erent, the world can seem like a scary place. Roald Dahl’s tale of a little girl born to unloving parents who nds comfort within the pages of books, befriends a lonely teacher and learns that she possesses magical powers has inspired a musical that’s been performed across the world since 2010. With music and lyrics by Tim Minchin, Matilda the Musical has won a slew of awards and will soon be gracing the stage of Virginia’s Little Theatre of Alexandria.

Produced by Kadira Coley and Jennifer Hardin, this fantastical fable is being directed by Janie Downey, who just last year directed and designed the props for the same show at Yarmouth, MA’s Royal River Community Players. “I love the show. I have a really di erent way that I direct and I had to make sure they were comfortable with that and they were, so here we are!” says Downey, whose software development-style technique of cutting the script into chunks to “run it, test it, see if it works” is be-

ing used to great e ect with the children being cast in this production. Downey’s having fun with the cast, who she says are truly representative of the DC area. “Kids just bring it on. They’re daring and reckless. I love their energy.” Cecilia Gorini and Lyle Vogel play Matilda, while Bruce Bogtrotter is played by Caleb Dawkins and Kiril French and Bogtrotter’s famously nausea-inducing, larger-than-life chocolate cake (a star in its own right) is the very same that was used in the Royal River Community Players production.

Downey is aiming for full immersion in Matilda’s world. “I want everyone that comes to this to think ‘Oh my gosh! I’m in this classroom and that’s my teacher and my awful principal!’” There’s something special about the message of Matilda the Musical; that a leader can chart a way forward for herself and her friends through compassion, kindness and understanding, in contrast to the hatred and intimidation that the fearsome Miss Trunchbull embodies. Downey adds that the show is also about “ nding yourself through education. It’s leadership through education and nding an adult that believes in you and that sees you.”

Special Mention

Atlas INTERSECTIONS Festival, Atlas Performing Arts Center Showing Feb 15 – Mar 16 www.atlasarts.org

This year’s cornucopia of star talent at H Street’s Atlas Performing Arts Center will showcase 650 artists from the DMV appearing in 37 di erent performances across the categories of Movement, Sound and Story. Exploring the convergence of art and humanity, performances will take place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening.

For this month’s column—an amuse-bouche of what to expect later this month—we’ve chatted with three artists from each category to get you excited about what’s to come.

Visit www. atlasarts.org/intersections2025/ to view the full program and to buy your tickets.

SOUND

Where Life Meets Art, Capital City Symphony

Showing Feb 22, 7pm

“Art can be a vehicle for human connection, and for people to come together.” Johannes Visser, Assistant Conductor for Capital City Symphony and the brains behind the lineup for the Symphony’s program at the Atlas INTERSECTIONS Festival, explains. “It’s not often that people get to experience something at the same time in the same space and that was the spirit with which I approached the programming.” Visser’s lineup of classical compositions is a celebration of the universal power of music to connect communities across the globe, regardless of cultural, political, social or historical di erences: Béla Bartók’s Romanian Folk Dances, George Walker’s Lyric for Strings, Edgar Elgar’s Enigma Variations and a special, deeply personal composition by Visser himself, titled A Winter Night in Palestine. Expect an evening of spine-tingling, soaring strings.

MOVEMENT

Where there’s smoke, there’s re… Aerial Ignition

Showing Feb 15, 8pm

If the spectacle of aerial dance performers soaring through the air on ropes, silks, hoops and trapeze a la Cirque du Soleil thrills you, then you’re not going to want to miss Aerial Ignition. Michelle Khalili, a student, collaborator and artist who performs for both Aerial Ignition and

Matilda the Musical. Photo: Janey Downey

INTERSECTIONS Festival: Capital City Symphony, Johannes Visser conducting a holiday concert at Central Union Mission.

The Eternal Art Collective, will appear alongside Sydney Ignacio and six other performers. They’ll be using straps, lyra (an aerial hoop) and other aerial performance equipment to communicate the passion, hard work, commitment and talent required to do what they do so well. “What you see on stage is the tip of the iceberg. Under that is the hard work and toil. Part of what we wanted was to bring in the real human side of what it means to be a performer and dancer.” Khalili says. Ignacio has performed with the Philippine Ballet Theatre, Verb Ballet, Washington Reflexions Dance Company and CityDance. He’s familiar with

don’t you dare wear any bright colors or bold patterns! This dress code is the catalyst for Drew Droege’s 2017 oneperson play of the same name, set during the evening before a wild weekend in Palm Springs where lead (and only onstage) character Gerry drinks, smokes and sashays through a steady stream of witty dialogue, steadfastly refusing to be squeezed into a closet of conformity. For one night only, Chad Rabago – and his alter-ego Olive Ghardon – will take on the role of Gerry, with guaranteed hilarious results and an important message about being authentic in a world that too regularly tries to snuff out individuality. “I’ve been doing drag as Olive for over 2 years and I’ve been involved in theater.” Rabago says. “I’ve been looking for a way to bring those two things together in a way where I have some creative control.” Fans of Olive’s appearances at JR’s drag musicals will love Rabago’s interpretation of Droege’s script. Don’t forget to wear something bright and colorful. u

the exceptional talent that DC possesses in this art form. “DC is a big place.” he explains. “My goal is for everyone to realize that we have really good performers here.” This year’s show will debut an aerial spiral device and a performer that will hang from their hair. Don’t miss it.

STORY

Bright Colors and Bold Patterns, Olive Ghardon

Showing Feb 22, 7:30pm You’re invited to the wedding of Brennan Newkirk and Joshua Pearson, but

INTERSECTIONS Festival: Bright Colors and Bold Patterns: Photo: Olive Ghardon

INTERSECTIONS Festival: Aerial Ignition. Photo: Sydney Ignacio

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Black History Month Calendar

e Sweet Home Café at the NMAAHC. e Sweet Home Café at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, 1400 Constitution Ave. NW, celebrates Black History Month with a special series of Chef’s Tables, showcasing a menu from award-winning chefs every Friday. In addition, the Sweet Home Café’s Market Table showcases products from local African American community partners throughout the month. For more details, visit nmaahc.si.edu/ visit/sweet-home-cafe.

e Negro Motorist Green Book Exhibition Tours. On Saturdays, 11 a.m. to noon and 2 to 3 p.m. and Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to noon and 5 to 6 p.m., through March 1, at the MLK Library, 901 G St. NW, these tours o er an immersive look at the reality of travel for African Americans in mid-century America and how the annual guide served as an indispensable resource for the nation’s rising African American middle class and evidence of a vibrant business class. dclibrary.org.

Black History Revealed: Getting Started with African American Genealogy. Feb. 8, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Uncover your ancestral roots in this all-day, interactive genealogy workshop at MLK Library, 901 G St. NW, as part of the DC Public Library’s “Our City, Our Stories” program series and to celebrate Black History Month. dclibrary.org.

Black History Month at Miracle eatre. Feb. 13, Just Mercy; Feb. 19, Flow; Feb. 27, Glory. Miracle eatre is at 535 Eighth St. SE. ere is a public parking lot on Eighth Street, SE between I Street and Virginia Avenue. themiracletheatre.com.

For the Love of Go-Go: Backyard Band and Black Alley. Feb. 14, 8 p.m. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with two of GoGo’s ﬁnest, Backyard Band and Black Alley, with For the Love of Go-Go in the Kennedy Center Concert Hall. Come with your signiﬁcant other, your friends, or solo and bask in the glow of love as you sing and dance to your favorite songs and celebrate the power of Go-Go music. $34 to $75. kennedycenter.org.

e Charles Covington Jazz Trio with vocalist Sandy Crawford on the KC Millennium Stage. Feb. 14, 6 p.m. is presentation with Kennedy Center Jazz Pianist-in-Residence Charles Covington includes an opening with a Negro Spiritual and a dramatic reading of Sojourner Truth’s “Ain’t I A Woman,” followed by interpretations of American classical (jazz) music. Free tickets. kennedy-center.org.

Great Migrations: A People on e Move. Feb. 15, 1 to 3 p.m. is ﬁlm which explores the transformative impact of Black migration on American culture and society is

“Universe of Freedom Making” by Daniel Minter, 2024. Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture

Heroes of Civil Rights Tours of the US Capitol. Monday to Friday, 3 p.m. What do Sojourner Truth, Frederick Douglass and Charles Sumner have in common? ey all fought for an end to slavery and the equality and freedom of all Americans. Hear about their extraordinary lives and how they shaped the path from slavery to civil rights. e tour includes Emancipation Hall and the Old Senate Chamber. visitthecapitol.gov.

screened at the Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. From the waves of Black Americans to the North—and back South—over the last century to the growing number of immigrants from Africa and the Caribbean today, the ﬁlm shows how movement is a deﬁning feature of the Black experience. anacostia.si.edu.

In Slavery’s Wake: Making Black Freedom in the World. rough June 8. is exhibition is a dynamic mix of history, art, and media, In Slavery’s Wake makes connections between Black freedom-makers across time and invites visitors into a global conversation on the continued impacts of slavery and colonialism. is multi-lingual exhibition experience features 100 objects, 250 images, and 10 multimedia interactives and ﬁlms. NMAAHC, 1400 Constitution Ave. NW. nmaahc.si.edu.

Author Talk: e Overground Railroad with Candacy Taylor. Feb. 19, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Join the MLK Library for an enlightening author talk with Candacy Taylor as she discusses her New York Times Notable Book, Overground Railroad: e Green Book and the Roots of Black Travel in America. MLK Library, 901 G St. NW. dclibrary.org.

ematic Tours: African American Voices at the National Cathedral. Feb. 15 and 22, 11 a.m. Celebrate notable African Americans who have made signiﬁcant contributions in theology, human rights, social justice, civil rights, education, and the welfare of other human beings as depicted in the sculptures, stained glass windows, and needlepoint throughout the National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Ave. NW. cathedral.org.

Artist Talk and Collage Workshop “we can go wherever we please”. Feb. 16, 2 to 3:30 p.m. Join local artist Jamila Zahra Felton at the MLK Library, 901 G St. NW, as she discusses her process creating a series of mixed-media collages for DC Public Library’s exhibition e Green Book in DC: “A Particular Place for Particular People.” dclibrary.org.

Historically Speaking: Tricia Hersey: We Will Rest! Feb. 18; 7 to 8 p.m. Tricia Hersey, New York Times bestselling author and e Nap Ministry founder, will give an immersive reading from her new book, We Will Rest! e Art of Escape in the NMAAHC Oprah Winfrey eater. Inspired by vintage hymnals, prayer books, and abolitionist pamphlets, We Will Rest! is a thoughtful collection of meditations and poetry with storytelling and powerful original art. Free; registration required at nmaahc.si.edu.

Colors of Freedom: Painting on Canvas. Feb. 22, noon to 2 p.m. Join the Anacostia Community Museum. 1901 Fort Pl. SE, for an afternoon of art, history, and creativity as you celebrate the contributions and achievements of Black heroes through the power of painting. Celebrate Black History Month with a creative and inspiring painting workshop led by DC artist Rain Young. anacostia.si.edu.

e Trouble of Color: Author Lecture with Martha S. Jones at Mount Vernon. March 13, 7 p.m. e Trouble of Color is a fascinating examination of the most fundamental matters of identity, belonging, and family. Martha S. Jones grew up feeling her Black identity was obvious to all who saw her. But weeks into college, a Black Studies classmate challenged Jones’s right to speak. Suspicious of the color of her skin and the texture of her hair, he confronted her with a question that inspired a lifetime of introspection: “Who do you think you are?” $60. mountvernon.org.

Book Talk: Black Broadway in DC. March 15, noon to 2 p.m. Join Briana A. omas, journalist, historian, and author of the book Black Broadway in Washington, DC, at the Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE, as she takes us through the history and impact of the Black Broadway mecca in DC. anacostia.si.edu. ◆

neighborhood news

Plans Outlined for New Jail Construction ANC 7D

Report

by Sarah Payne

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 7D met Jan. 14 via Zoom. Commissioners Artilie Wright (7D03), Mike Davis (7D04, vice chair), Ebony Payne (7D05), Marc Friend (7D06), Brett Astmann (7D07, treasurer), Brian Alcorn (7D08, chair), Ashley Schapitl (7D09) and Dev Myers (7D10, secretary) were in attendance. Single Member Districts 7D01 and 7D02 are currently vacant.

The Department of Corrections (DOC) Deputy Director of Administration Michelle Wilson briefed the commission on the replacement of the DC Jail’s Central Detention Facility (CDF) located at 1901 D St. SE. The agency plans to construct a new detention center on Reservation 13 consisting of two buildings, Wilson stated. The current facility is “extremely outdated” and in need of “significant, costly” repairs as a result of its “constant” use and evolving resident population, she said.

In addition to the plumbing, HVAC, leaks and airflow issues, the CDF has identified the need for additional “programmatic space” to promote rehabilitation for residents in their efforts to reduce recidivism, Wilson stated. This includes educational and vocational opportunities, mental and behavioral health services, substance abuse treatment programs and reentry supportive services. In order to accommodate these new spaces, the new facility plans to house slightly fewer people. DOC plans to decrease the maximum occupancy from 2,150 to around 2,000, she said.

The construction is expected to commence in 2027 and occur in three phases,

Wilson stated. The first phase will focus on renovating features of the existing facility and break ground on the first annex facility. Between 2029 and 2031, the second phase will prepare the CDF for demolition and break ground on the second annex facility. The final phase, expected to commence between 2031 and 2035, will complete construction on the second annex facility and mark the decommissioning of the current facility, she told commissioners.

How will plans for the new facility would incorporate additional support for the mental health needs of residents? asked Commissioner Friend. In addition to specific plans for the new programmatic spaces, the DOC team is focused on these changes “early on” in the process and incorporating additional resources, developing a transition team prior to the move and establishing partnerships with individuals familiar with this work, Wilson responded.

Citing the programming requirements of the detention center, the DOC plans to submit several special exemptions including: zoning relief, area variance and several additional waivers, Wilson said. The department plans to appear before the commission again to request support. Representatives from the DOC also plan to host another public engagement session soon, though a date has not been set, she said. The commission took no vote on this matter.

Other Matters

Ward 7 Councilmember Wendell Felder (D) briefed the commission on his upcoming term. He plans to serve on six council

committees including: Business and Economic Development, Health, Human Services, Judiciary and Public Safety, Public Works and Operations and Education. Felder expressed avid interest in ensuring that the ward receives its “fair share” in the upcoming budget cycle and encouraged commissioners, nonprofit organizations and civic associations to submit their budget priorities early in the cycle.

The commission elected new officers: Brian Alcorn (7D08) as chair, Mike Davis (7D04) as vice chair, Brett Astmann (7D07) as treasurer and Dev Myers (7D10) as secretary.

The commission voted to reestablish the Environmental Committee for the upcoming commission period.

ANC 7D will meet next on Feb. 11 at 7 p.m. via Zoom. You can learn more about the commission and register to attend at 7d0761.wixsite.com/anc7d-1.

Sarah Payne is a reporter for Capital Community News. She can be reached at sarahp@hillrag.com. u

Pepco Asked to Explain Fatal Shock to Pet ANC 8F Report

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 8F met both in-person at 250 M St. SE and online via Zoom Jan. 21. On the dais were commissioners Nic Wilson (8F01), Markita Bryant (8F02), Brian Strege (8F03), Edward Daniels (6/8F04) and Liam Goodwin (6/8F05).

Commissioner Daniels told ANC 8F that on Jan. 6, 2025, a Northwest resident lost their service dog when the animal was shocked by an electric field. Daniels introduced an ANC resolution asking Pepco to discuss the findings of an electrical study and to provide any information on the Jan. 6 incident at the Feb.18 meeting of ANC 8F.

Daniels said two dogs have so far been killed due to a ground electric shock in the District.

The commissioner said that his own dog was shocked a few years ago outside the front door of his building. At the time, residents assumed it was static electricity

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

created by the opening and closing of the door, Daniels added. However, the concierge of Daniels’ building noted that dogs walking past the door were also yelping; the concierge later learned they were being shocked, as well.

Daniels said Pepco has been aware of shock incidents for years and they had proposed a study. He noted that the DC Office of the People’s Council, advocates for utility customers, have also asked Pepco to release insight into the incident. Daniels said that Pepco has noted publicly that they have not found any live wires or sources of power strong enough to create a charge so significant that it could kill a pet. The resolution passed unanimously.

Antennae Application

Rob Holzman and Derick Wallace of Goulston & Storrs appeared on behalf of the DC Homeland Security Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA). As a first-

floor tenant at 1015 Half St. SE, HSEMA is applying to the Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) for a special exception to zoning requirements in order to add 30 antennas to the roof of the building.

The antennas are to support HSEMA operations and information exchange with public safety agencies in the area, Holzman said. 25 antennae exceed the height limit. Eight antennae require setback relief on the alley side of the building. All antennae would be added to those previously installed by HSEMA for similar reasons on the penthouse of the building.

Associate Director and Chief of Operations and Intelligence DC HSEMA Danny McCoy was in attendance and underscored the importance of the antennae. McCoy noted that the antennae are part of the HSEMA Washington Metropolitan Area Warning System. The antennae are within a case plan for alternative contingency and emergency operations. The antennae will enhance communications with other jurisdictions throughout the region and nation, McCoy said.

The ANC unanimously voted to send a letter of support for the application to the BZA.

Planning for TOPP Begins

District Department of Transportation (DDOT) Community Engagement Manager Kelly Jeong-Olson introduced planning for the 2025 Traffic Operations and Parking Plan (TOPP). TOPP is the District’s annual plan to minimize the impact of travel and parking for large crowd events, such as those that take place at Audi Field and Nationals Stadium.

Olson said that DDOT is the leading agency on this collaborative effort that also includes MPD, DPW, ride share companies and District ANCs.

In particular, Olson wanted the ANC to comment on which streets were closed to traffic and which should be slated for restrictions during events. She noted concerns in 2024 around MPD recognition of parking placards for residents, particularly in terms of allowing access to alleys leading to residential parking garages.

Olson said that DDOT had already initiated internal stakeholder meetings and was also meeting with ANC 6D

that week. A public survey is expected to launch Jan. 27. DDOT will conduct a traffic analysis through February and then bring residents together for a public meeting, reviewing community feedback to create a draft TOPP in March. The goal is to launch the 2025 TOPP by April 1.

Olson acknowledged that DC United has games in February and March, but said that the time was necessary to engage the community in the process.

Commissioners pointed to a need for abundant parking enforcement on both game days and concert days, when folks are parking in pick up and drop off zones as well as in areas designated for ride share services and along areas designated as “no parking”. Commissioner Strege noted that some attendees are parking in crosswalks, creating safety hazards.

Daniels asked for dedicated parking on First Street for the MPD officers who attend all 81 Nationals games. He suggested a single public spot could be assigned to an officer for the games.

Commissioners asked for clarity so that neighbors would understand how to pick up placards indicating they are local residents in the TOPP area. Finally, Daniels asked that concert promoters be held to the conditions of their permits, particularly around blocking sidewalks and bike lanes during loading and unloading.

Commissioners asked that DDOT and DPW be in the room together for a meeting with ANC on the TOPP at their February meeting.

There was no vote on the discussion.

New Executive

ANC 6D Commissioner Gail Fast (6D03) presided over the election of the new ANC 8F Executive. Commissioners elected the officers as a slate, as follows: Commissioner Strege as Chair, Commissioner Bryant as Vice Chair, Commissioner Daniels as Secretary, and Commissioner Goodwin as Treasurer.

ANC 8F meets on the third Tuesday of the month with the exception of August. The next meeting is scheduled for Feb. 18. See the full calendar of meetings and instructions to join at anc8f.org. u

DC Polar Plunge

The Polar Plunge supports Special Olympics DC. Participants jump into a swimming pool erected on the boardwalk at the Capitol Riverfront. All funds raised by Plungers help Special Olympics DC provide year-round sports, health, and education programs to over 2,500 children and adults with intellectual disabilities in the District, always at no cost to them and their families. The DC Polar Plunge is on Saturday, Feb. 22, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Learn about registering and/or donating at dcpolarplunge.org.

Habitat Restoration Workdays at Kingman

On Saturdays, Feb. 8 and 15, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., volunteers will join the Anacostia Watershed Society (AWS) and National Links Trust for a Habitat Restoration Workday. During this workday participants will help AWS with their invasive plant control and revegetation e orts along the riverside area of Kingman Island at Langston Golf Course. This is part of a natural resources management plan for the golf course in partnership with National Links Trust. Meet at the Driving Range Parking Lot of the Langston Golf Course. anacostiaws.org.

Yoga to Afrobeats at the ACM

On Saturday, Feb. 15, 11 a.m. to noon, enjoy a Yoga to Afrobeats session at the Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort. Pl. SE. All levels are welcome. It is ideal for those who enjoy the fusion of music and movement. The session is facilitated by Khepera Wellness. Bring a yoga mat and optionally, water or a towel to stay hydrated

and comfortable throughout the class. Spaces are very limited so if you can’t make it, cancel your reservation so others can attend. Register at anacostia.si.edu/events.

Get Your Tenants Rights Questions Answered

On Wednesday, Feb. 26, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the DC O ce of the Tenant Advocate (OTA) will be at Francis A. Gregory Library, 3660 Alabama Ave. SE, and will provide tenants with resources and materials to help them understand their rights, including information on rent control, tenant associations, rent increases, TOPA, and the Tenant Bill of Rights. dclibrary.org.

Afro House: Spirit Fest at the Anacostia Arts Center

On Saturday, Feb. 22, noon to 4:30 p.m., this day-long festival includes live performances from local creatives, a marketplace, and more.

Washington, DC: Center Stage for America’s 250th in 2026

In 2026, as the United States marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the milestone will be celebrated on stag- es across America. But nowhere will the celebration be more spectacular than in the nation’s capital. Washington, DC will serve as center stage for America’s grand national celebration. Destination DC and a growing list of more than 70 participating organizations from the local tourism and hospitality community announced plans for a year-round celebration in 2026 on the National Mall and throughout the city’s cultural in- stitutions, museums, attractions, restaurants and hotels. A new website, DC250.us, serves as a central source of information for potential visitors.

Battle of Hampton 1775 Land and Sea Revolutionary War Reenactment Virginia Va. encampment.

DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in

DC Open Doors

DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership inthe city. is programo ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust

DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership i city. is programo ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust

DC Open Doors

homebuyer or a D C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia

homebuyer or a D C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia.

DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership inthe city. is programo ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust homebuyer or a D C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia

HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) rst-time home buyer program.

DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership in the city. This program offers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on first trust mortgages.You are not required to be a first-time homebuyer or a D.C. resident to qualify for DCOD. You must, however, be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia.

HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) rst-time home buyer program.

years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to

DC4ME

years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to

DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees.

DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is o ered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.

years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to

COVID-19

DC4ME is offered to current fulltime District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower’s employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.

COVID-19

DC MAP COVID-19 provides nancial assistance to those a ected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quali ed borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage for up to six months.

COVID-19

The Anacostia Arts Center is at 1231 Marion Barry Ave. SE. Free admission. anacostiaartscenter.com.

Capital City Go-Go Education Day Games

On Wednesday Feb. 12 and Tuesday, March 4, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Go-Go is hosting two Education Day Games at the Entertainment & Sports Arena, 1100 Oak Dr. SE, designed for students in grades K-12. In partnership with Teach the Beat, Go-Go Education Day fuses basketball with the distinctive sound of go-go music. Students will get to know go-go music and its role in DC history, watch a live go-go band performance, and can enjoy educational entertainment during timeouts and halftime. Tickets are $15. Capital City nished fourth in the Eastern Conference last season to earn their third-straight playo appearance after qualifying for the Showcase Cup tournament for the rst time in franchise history in 2023. The Go-Go were one of three teams in the league to earn a spot in both the Winter

DC United Opens Season vs. Toronto FC at Audi Field

Here’s the early schedule: vs. Toronto FC, Feb. 22, 6:30 p.m.; vs. Sporting Kansas City, March 8, 6:30 p.m.; vs. CF Montreal, March 15, 6:30 p.m.; vs. Columbus Crew, March 29, 6:30 p.m.; vs. FC Cincinnati, April 12, 6:30 p.m. View the 2025 schedule at mlssoccer.com/news/mls-2025-regular-season-scheduleinformation-details. For single-match tickets, visit dcunited.com/tickets/single.

at the National Arboretum. This annual native plant sale includes a small number of vendors ( ve vendors) from across the mid-Atlantic region selling spring ephemerals and many other choices of perennials and woody plants. The sale is on Meadow Road, adjacent to the National Herb Garden. Register at fona.org.

Help Shape DC Public Library’s New Behavior Guidelines

DC Public Library is in the process of updating its Rules of Behavior to better re ect our community’s needs, in line with the library’s core purpose and values. They want community input via a survey, focus groups and pop-up interviews at neighborhood libraries. Feedback from all stakeholders will be reviewed and considered alongside nationwide best practices and targeted community needs to build the new behavior guidelines. Complete the survey at dclibrary.org/help-shape-dc-public-librarysnew-behavior-guidelines.

DC Teachers’ Night: An Environmental Education Evening

On Thursday, Feb. 13, 6 to 8 p.m., join the US Botanic Garden Conservatory for the 18th annual DC Teachers’ Night. Connect with DC area environmental education organizations and nd ways to get your students learning about the natural world and how to bring the environment into the classroom. Learn from a community about eld trip experiences, professional development opportunities, and resources. Free admission; registration is required at usbg.swoogo. com/DCTN2025. Light refreshments. Certi cates of Participation are available for PDUs. usbg.gov.

Showcase and the NBA G League Playo s in 2023-24. Fans interested in purchasing tickets to any of the 2024-25 priority dates are encouraged to call 202-864-4350 or email ticketsales@capitalcitygogo. com for more information.

FONA’s Annual Native Plant Symposium and Sale

Join the US National Arboretum on Saturday, March 29 for a day of engaging presentations about native plants, pollinators, and ecosystems during the 38th Annual Lahr Native Plant Symposium. Learn about soil health management, destructive pests, forest restoration, current research on seed conservation, and the best native trees for your garden. The symposium features seven expert speakers and will take place in the Arboretum’s Visitor Center Auditorium. Also, on Saturday, March 29, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., get a head start on spring and shop one of the earliest plant sales in the area, held

Watch N Learn Activist Night at Bellevue Library

Every rst Monday of the month from 3 to 4:45 p.m., join Bellevue Library, 115 Atlantic St. SW, to watch a movie/ documentary on a di erent activist. Learn by watching different methods used by successful activists. dclibrary.org.

Free Professional Headshots at SW Library

Professional headshots can be a great way to connect with potential employers and clients, whether you use them on networking sites like LinkedIn or your own website. On Saturdays, March 22 and May 17, 1 to 3 p.m., make an appointment with local photographer Krista Boccio to get a professional headshot at SW Library, 900 Wesley Pl. SW. Arrive photo-ready with any hair, makeup, and clothing you wish to be photographed in. Sessions are limited and will last approximately 10 minutes each. Sessions are o ered on a rst-come, rst-served basis. To receive headshot(s), participants must be prepared to provide a valid email address. Join the wait list at dclibrary.org/planvisit/southwest-library.

Capital Fringe Festival Ends After 20 Years

Capital Fringe has announced it will no longer produce the annual Fringe Festival. Operating a small to mid-sized arts organization in DC requires constantly overcoming challenges to secure space. Over the past three years, these challenges have been further compounded by rising costs and

The entrance greenhouse to the US Botanic Garden.

Friends of the National Arboretum Flowering 5k

On Sunday, March 23, enjoy spring at the US National Arboretum during Friends of the National Arboretum’s Flowering 5K. This run or walk takes you past garden, over treelined rolling hills, and along streams winding their way to the Anacostia River. Enjoy cherry blossoms, magnolias, and so much more. All roads are closed to cars during this race so you can safely enjoy running or walking through this 451acre urban green space. Music will get you in the groove before and after the event. Strollers and dogs are welcome, but dogs must stay on a 6’ non-retractable leash. Registration pricing is $40 to $55. Kids under 13 are free. T-shirts are available while supplies last. fona.org/events_programs.

Rock ‘n’ Roll DC Half Marathon and 5k Registration Open

Discover the District like never before and immerse yourself in a thriving cultural hub when you run the St. Jude Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Washington DC. Get ready to experience a musical running tour that gets you up close to iconic monuments. The St. Jude Rock ‘n’ Roll Washington DC half marathon and 5k is on March 15. Half marathon is $145; 5k is $78. Read more and register at runrocknroll.com/washington-dc.

12,000 attendees at the MLK Library block party. dcartallnight.org.

DDOT’s E-Bike Purchase Returns

Make It, April 9, 7:30 p.m. and April 19, 2 p.m.; We Are Gathered, May 25, 2 p.m. and June 3, 7:30 p.m.; A Wrinkle in Time, June 20, 8 p.m. and June 28, 2 p.m. arenastage.org.

the di culty of obtaining suitable and reliable venue options annually to support their unique open-access programming. Their new chapter begins this fall when Capital Fringe launches an annual cash artist award, designed to celebrate and support the creative uniqueness of the DC arts community. While full details will be revealed in July, their mission remains to champion local artists and provide a critical, reliable resource for their growth for generations to come. capitalfringe.org.

Art All Night 2025 Dates Announced

Mayor Bowser and the Department of Small and Local Business Development have announced the dates for Art All Night 2025, a citywide celebration of local artists and businesses. This year’s Art All Night takes place on Saturday, Sept. 12 and Sunday, Sept. 13, bringing vibrant art, live performances, and community spirit to neighborhoods across all eight wards of DC. First introduced as Art All Night: Nuit Blanche DC by Shaw Main Streets in 2011, this event has grown into a two-day celebration. Last year’s event attracted more than 140,000 visitors, including over

The District Department of Transportation announces the return of the successful District E-Bike Incentive Program that helps District residents—particularly of low income—purchase an e-bike using a voucher worth as much as $1,500. The $500,000 program also helps support bicycle businesses within the District. The application window is from Feb. 1 to 21. A Preferred Applicant is a District resident enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Medicaid, or the DC Healthcare Alliance. A Standard Applicant is a District resident not enrolled in any of these assistance programs. All applicants can apply to receive a voucher of up to $1,500 towards an e-bike plus a helmet and a bicycle lock to be redeemed at select authorized bike retailers. For more information about the District E-Bike Incentive Program or to apply, visit ddot.dc.gov/ebikes.

A Crafting Circle at Benning Library

On the rst and third Thursday of every month, 4 to 6 p.m., join other crafters at Dorothy I. Height/Benning Neighborhood Library, 3935 Benning Rd. NE, to show o your current project, swap ideas, pick up a new skill, or just have a good chat. Are you working on a project and need to talk about it? Learning a new craft and have questions? Want to learn a new craft and don’t know where to begin? Join the group and meet with fellow crafters, get inspired, and work on your current project. Have some craft scraps you want to trade? They might have some supplies to give away. Crafting Circle is open to all teens, adults, and seniors. dclibrary.org.

SW Nights at Arena Stage

Arena Stage patrons who reside or work in Southwest DC can buy discounted tickets for specially designated Southwest Night performances of each production. Tickets are $36 for musicals and $26 for non-musicals, plus fees. Proof of Southwest DC residency or employment for each member of the party must be presented at the time of ticket pickup. Tickets are based on availability. Upcoming Southwest Nights are: Sarah Silverman’s The Bedwetter: A New Musical, Feb. 6, 8 p.m. and Feb. 8, 2 p.m.; The Age of Innocence, March 9, 2 p.m. and March 14, 8 p.m.; Fake It Until You

Washington Nationals, Costa Media Partnership Extended

The Washington Nationals have announced an agreement with Costa Media, extending the o cial Spanish-language radio broadcast partnership through the 2027 season. During the Nationals’ upcoming season, fans can tune in to DC 87.7 FM and La Pantera WFAX 100.7 FM/1220 AM for live Spanish-language broadcasts for both home and away games, with in-game play-by-play analysis, 15-minute pre- and postgame shows, in-depth organizational reporting and player interviews. For more information, visit costa-media.com and nats.com.

Annual Diversity Employment Day Career Fair

The DC area 25th Annual Diversity Employment Day Career Fair is on Wednesday, April 2, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Doubletree Hilton—Crystal City, 300 Army Navy Dr., Arlington, VA. Register and schedule in-person meetings with recruiters at citycareerfair.com/dc or register by email when you send your resume to Fasttrack@citycareerfair.com.

Small Biz Assist at MLK Library

On Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., small business owners can come to MLK Library, 901 G St. NW, for support. The DC Department of Small and Local Business o ers one-on-one meeting times for DC-based entrepreneurs and businesses to learn more about their programs, connect with additional services in the District, and develop a business. DC-based businesses, residents, and businesses considering expansion into DC are eligible to meet with an Innovation & Equitable Development advisor. In addition to covering all the information they know; the sta will refer you to external services as needed. See the assistance descriptions at dclibrary.libnet.info/event/12128904 for one-on-one meetings with a DSLBD team member and use the scheduling link. For general questions about this support, contact Inno.ED@dc.gov.

Do You Have a Notice for the Bulletin Board? The East of the River Bulletin Board includes event notices, volunteer opportunities and other community news. If you have a notice, send it to bulletinboard@ hillrag.com. ◆

Photo: Beth Haubach

east washington life

Meet Your Neighbor

The Beauty Within – Ms. Elite United 2024 Koya Bakare

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

Koya Bakare doesn’t always remove her tiara when she speaks to an audience. But sometimes, the Elite Ms. US United 2024 pageant winner takes off her crown, placing it on the podium. She raises her sash over her head, folding it gently. Sometimes she will even remove her make up.

“We all wear crowns, and the crowns are symbolic of our journey and our accomplishments,” she said.

Bakare is a pageant queen, A former Mrs. District of Columbia, Mrs. US Sophisticate and a Mrs. Model Beauty USA. She is also a motivational speaker, an educator and a survivor of sexual abuse.

Her titles have allowed her to connect with more people than she ever thought possible.

“It does represent an accomplishment,” she acknowledges. “But my bigger accomplishment is that I was able to find my voice— and that’s what I celebrate.”

A Bubble Popped

Born in DC in the mid-1970s, Bakare’s family lived in Fairfax Village in Ward 7. They spent time with her grandmother, who lived near Edgewood Church off Minnesota Avenue. Bakare had “an absolutely fantastic experience at school,” attending the now-shuttered Benning Elementary and Sousa Middle School before graduating from HD Woodson High School in the early 1990s.

It was a turbulent time. The District was experiencing a wave of violence and the onset of the crack epidemic. However, Bakare remembers her childhood as ideal and protected. She was trained in classical piano and took ballet lessons. “My parents and my grandmother kept me in a space, not necessarily a bubble,” she said, “but ensured that I also felt loved, that I never felt the things that were happening in the world.”

But that all came to a crashing end when she turned 11. Over two years, Bakare was sexually assaulted by someone close to her family. She didn’t have the words to tell her parents. Instead, she internalized the pain, suffering bulimia throughout her teenage years. Books sustained her through this, she says. She would skip school and go downtown to the Martin Luther King Jr. Library.

“I knew words and books allowed me to have this world,” she remembers. “So, I would get a root beer and a bag of cheese curls and go to the library and just read all day.”

But by the time she went to college at Elizabeth City State University in North Carolina, she was suicidal.

After two failed attempts, her mother arrived. She persuaded Bakare to go to therapy. She encouraged Bakare to celebrate who she was and to be her authentic self. “She’d always say, “Girl, you march to the beat of your own drum,” Bakare recalls. “Stand in your own greatness.”

Pageants: A Way to Health

It was only after Bakare finished her degree and began to consider different graduate schools that she also began to consider competing in pageants, entering the Miss Baltimore pageant in 1997.

She realized that pageantry afforded just what she was looking for, “an opportunity to find my voice, as well as being a platform to speak with others.”

Backstage among competitors, Bakare said, there

were a lot of tears, and they weren’t about not winning. Many of the other women had struggled with eating disorders and with abuse.

Baker realized that many of them saw the pageant crown as a way to feel empowered and valued. “I realized in that moment that, oh, there are many here who are seeking a way to help them find a voice and to feel a sense of worth,” Baker related. “From there is where my platform fully developed.”

Many of these young women had no one to turn to, Bakare realized. It made her value her mother, Patricia D. Staten, even more.

Elected in 1996, Staten was Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner for 7A06. “I used to call her the Mayor of the Block,” Bakare said. “I just always remember her having meetings and going to neighbors ensuring that their bills are paid.” Staten would take neighbors in if they needed a place to stay, Bakare said, and worked two or three jobs to provide for the family. “I thought my mother was on this forever diet,” Bakare relates. “And as I got as I got old, I realized, oh my gosh, what she was doing was ensuring my sister and I ate.”

Bakare’s younger sister Tahira Staten-Murphy says that growing up, she was the extraverted one and Bakare shy and quiet. “The tables have turned,” she said. When they were younger, Staten-Murphy said, the sisters were one another’s comfort. She knew her sister suffered, and she was angry and wanted to shield Bakare. “[Our mother] really taught us that in the face of adversity, the two of you hold each other and be there for each other,” Staten-Murphy recalled.

They have continued to do so after they lost their mother. Staten survived breast cancer, but was diagnosed with myosarcoma, a cancer of muscle tissue and passed in April 2020. Bakare and her sister founded the nonprofit Pat’s Heart in their mother’s honor. The foundation provides emotional and financial support to those in need. They are building a retreat where those dealing with emotional distress can find therapy but also refuge and rest. In that, Tahira Staten-Murphy said, Bakare is taking the lead.

The Gift of Education

Bakare is using her own gifts in the community. She is an educator by profession, the Instructional Manager at Academy of Hope. The public charter school is the oldest of the seven adult public charter programs in the District and serves adult learners on two campuses, one in Ward 5 and another in Ward 8. DC, Bakare notes, is an extremely educated town. More than half of the District’s residents over 25 years old have a bachelors degree or higher. But in Ward 8, Bakare said, statistics say one in three adults are coping with illiteracy. “I push back. I will say one in two,” she adds, citing the student population she has seen over her 15 years as an educator.

Bakare photographed at her 2024 Ms, US United Win.

Courtesy K. Bakare, Photo: Carrie Abernathy/U.S. United Pageant

Students at Academy of Hope “are dealing with various onsets of educational blight,” she said. Some of the students are earning their high school diplomas. Others, Bakare knows, already graduated, but without the skills that should have been indicated by the parchment. “I have some students who walked across the stage and do not know how to write their name, or are still struggling to write a simple sentence,” Bakare said.

As COVID hit the District, she served as Academy of Hope’s Interim Principal, “one of the hardest things in my life, but one of the most rewarding,” she remembered. She taught students digital literacy from her car so that the emerging readers could continue to learn.

Her own education continues. Where once she sought refuge in words at the Martin Luther King Library, she has continued her education. After completing her bachelor degree, she went on to nish a Master’s in Business Administration at Baker College of Flint, Michigan.

Now she is working to complete her doctorate at Walden University as well as a seminary program at Andersonville. “I am a spiritual being, and I feel that I’m called to be an example of hope and faith and resilience,” she said.

Beauty Inside of You

Bakare is the pillar of the family, holding them together, Staten-Murphy said, a role she also takes with her friends and her community.

“If people would take time to really get to know my sister, beyond her tiara, they will realize the titles are just the ice cream on the cake,” the younger sister said. “She is the cake. She’s the substance.”

In her work, Bakare has met many people who are su ering trauma. There are many more throughout the community. She wants them to know that is not what de nes them. “There is a beauty that exists inside of you, even if circumstances and people have tried to take that away,” she said.

Her crown, Bakare said, is a symbol of her win – but not only that. It is of her accomplishments, her ability to walk forward in life. This is what she celebrates when she removes her tiara prior to speaking.

“My favorite quote is African proverb,” Bakare said. “It says, if there is no enemy within, the enemy outside do me no harm. I say it to myself every day.”

The Old Man from Anacostia

What Do You Call Your Valentine?

Fby Philip Pannell

mostly used by older folks. Personally I would rather be called a person’s better whole but the double entendre would be too glaring.

eb. 14 is Valentine’s Day and the birthday of Frederick Douglass, the lion of Anacostia. A friend of mine was telling me how she was planning to celebrate Valentine’s Day with her boyfriend. I asked her why she called her man with whom she is living her boyfriend. She asked me what was the problem with that. I replied that since both she and her man are on Medicare it seems adolescent to refer to him as a boyfriend.

Married people do not have to concern themselves with what to call their spouses. Calling someone a wife or a husband will never get old.

She asked me what do I think she should call him. It was really more of a challenge than a question. So, I took her on a semantical stroll, gave her some alternatives and annotated them with my opinions. I o ered these options:

Partner - Although this is a popular term, I nd it coldly corporate. When someone introduces a partner to me, I feel as if I am at a cocktail party at a law rm.

I told my friend that after giving it some thought it does not matter what she calls her man. I agree with William Shakespeare that “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” So, I told her to pay my opinion no mind. She assured me that she had done exactly that from the beginning of our conversation but went along for the ride. I am fortunate to have such a darling, understanding and accommodating friend. On Valentine’s Day I am always in someone’s group text to receive an e-card. So, I will forward one to my friend – a form of cyber regifting.

Signi cant Other - I feel that this term is too clinical and has the warmth of an STD clinic. To me a signi cant other is the person you designate to be called in case of an emergency. I think the ideal present to give a signi cant other on Valentine’s Day is your power of attorney.

Lover - This term packs a strong affectional punch but it is so yesterday. When was the last time you heard someone referred to as a lover except on a Sex in the City rerun?

My Better Half - This cute term is

On Valentine’s Day my friend will be with her beau, snuggling with her sweetheart, kicking it with her main squeeze and chillin’ with her boo.

And what will my terminally single self be doing?

I will be celebrating Frederick Douglass’ birthday.

Long-time Ward 8 community activist Philip Pannell can be contacted at philippannell@ comcast.net. ◆

kids & family

by Kathleen Donner

Family Fun Day at the INTERSECTIONS Festival

On Saturday, March 8, 10 a.m. to noon, join in the fun in the Altas lobby, 1333 H St. NE, for their annual INTERSECTIONS Family Fun Day featuring Mr. Rob’s Music. Mr. Rob is a performer and music educator specializing in early childhood music education. He uses his performance experience to create highly engaging and interactive experiences. Family Fun Day also includes an Instrument Petting Zoo led by the Capitol City Symphony and craft stations for creative little ones. Admission is free. Family Fun Day is supported by the Capitol Hill Community Foundation. atlasarts.org.

Observe the Sun at Air and Space

Heure Du Conte: Bilingual Fun in French and English at Shaw Library

On the first Friday of every month, 10:30 to 11 a.m., the Shaw library, 630 Seventh St. NW, invites children from birth to five, accompanied by an adult, to enter into a world of fun and make-believe. Through stories, songs and movement, children will be able to discover the joy of reading and savor the flavor of language. If you would like to visit with a school, childcare or camp group, call ahead at 202-727-1288 to make arrangements. dclibrary.org.

Animationland at the National Children’s Museum

Calling all budding stop-motion animators, directors and sound artists. Animationland is at the National Children’s Museum, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, through May 11. Guests are introduced to Tracey the pencil dog and her cast of fantastical friends as they make their way through the colorful and immersive environments of the exhibit, learning animation techniques along the way. This exhibit seeks to educate young learners about how art and science intersect in the making of animation. The exhibit focuses on the basics of the animation process including a sketching studio, a sound effects booth, and the opportunity to plan and star in a stop-motion production. Recommended for ages 6-11. Tickets are $18.95 for adults and children one and older. nationalchildrensmuseum.org.

On Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 3 p.m., weather permitting, become an astronomer and observe the sun safely with a filtered telescope. Come to the corner of Seventh Street and Independence Avenue, near the silver Delta Solar sculpture, to view a variety of features on the sun. Knowledgeable staff will be there to answer questions and guide observing. Written and touchable explanatory materials are available for learners of all types. airandspace.si.edu.

Callaloo Kids at Discovery Theater on the Mall

On Tuesday through Friday, Feb. 18 to 21, 10:15 and 11:30 a.m., join a celebration of African Diaspora culture filled with puppetry, drumming, and storytelling. Performed by the CFA Repertory Theatre, this family-friendly show follows the adventures of Winston, Marisol, and Zoe as they discover the magical folklore of the Carib-

Photo: Courtesy of Capital City Symphony

First Saturdays at the NGA

On the first Saturday of every month, find kids activities in the National Gallery of Art’s East Building atrium. Here’s the schedule: Storytime, 10 to 11 a.m.; Kids’ Play Space, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Pop-Up Library, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Face Painting, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Sketching Lab, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Drop-In Artmaking, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. nga.gov.

Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band

On Saturday, March 15, at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., bring the whole family to the Kennedy Center Family Theater to enjoy smart, crafty lyrics with irresistibly fresh pop beats. Performing in Spanish and English, Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band is on the pulse of all things kids’ music, creating indie sounds rooted in whimsical imagination. $25. Most enjoyed by ages five and older. Following the 1:30 p.m. performance, young audience members can ask questions and hear stories from the show’s artists and creative team. kennedy-center.org.

bean. It is recommended for ages three to seven. $8 for adults; $7 for kids; $3 for kids under two. Tickets are on sale now. Discovery Theater’s Ripley Center is at 1100 Jefferson Dr. SW (on the National Mall). discoverytheater.org.

Toddler Story Time @ La Cosecha

On the first Thursday of every month, 10:30 to 11 a.m., young children and their parents or caregivers are invited to a monthly story time at La Cosecha, 1280 Fourth St. NE, courtesy of NE Library. Story time meets in the Balcon area on the second floor. Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. dclibrary.org.

STEAM Saturdays at the National Building Museum

On the second Saturday of each month, from 1 to 3 p.m., families are invited to join the National Building Museum for STEAM activities related to their Brick City exhibition. NBM admission is $10 for adults; $7 for kids, three to seventeen, and seniors. The National Building Museum is at 401 F St. NW. nbm.org.

Advancing Adolescent Literacy at Planet Word

On Thursday, Feb. 20, 6:30 p.m., join Planet Word, 925 13th St. NW, and The Reading League–DC for a practical and instructive talk with Dr. Jade Wexler, a leading researcher and expert in adolescent literacy. You’ll learn evidence-based strategies to improve reading comprehension in middle and high school classrooms and hear practical insights from Dr. Wexler’s groundbreaking work on PACT (Promoting Adolescents’ Comprehension of Text) Plus. Free admission. planetwordmuseum.org.

Chess Girls DC

The mission of Chess Girls DC is to build the confidence of Girls using Chess as a tool. Chess teaches persistence. The Chess Girls DC program develops a solid foundation of chess knowledge taught in a way that every maneuver becomes a way to practice effective thinking. Chess Girls DC 501c3 Nonprofit Organization

was launched in response to scientific evidence that self-confidence plays a tremendous role in a girl’s approach to course work that requires higher level thinking skills. Chess teaches focus and strategic thinking used to successfully tackle college examinations. Read more at chessempowersgirls.org.

Family Pottery Painting: Create Your Own Seder Plate

On Sunday, Feb. 23, 10 to 11:30 a.m., get ready for a creative adventure at the EDCJCC. Join Edlavitch DCJCC, 1529 16th St. NW, and All Fired Up’s mobile studio to design and paint beautiful seder plates to celebrate Passover. They’ll provide everything you need, and you’ll be able to pick up your finished plate at the EDCJCC in about four weeks, in time for your Passover table. $38 per family. edcjcc.org.

NSO Family Concert: Earth to Space

On Sunday, March 30, 1 p.m., in the Kennedy Center Concert Hall, explore the vastness of space with music inspired by the planets, stars, and beyond. In anticipation of the upcoming voyage of Artemis II, the National Symphony Orchestra celebrates the discoveries and beauty of space through music and images. Tickets are $25 to $28. kennedy-center-org.

Earth to Space NASA Family Weekends at the KC

On March 29 and 30, April 5 and 6, and April 12 and 13, join the Kennedy Center for weekends of activities, performances, workshops, and giveaways in collaboration with NASA. Most activities are free, except where noted at kennedycenter.org/whats-on/explore-by-genre/youngaudiences/events.

Art in the A.M. at SAAM

Inspire early childhood creativity with SAAM during Art in the A.M. Children ages up to five years and their caregivers are invited to the museum before hours to learn, connect, and create in the galleries. During this program, participants will play an art detective game as they enjoy the modern and contemporary art galleries at SAAM. Participants will then assemble their own mixed-media collage artworks. Space is limited and registration is required. Art in the A.M. is at the Smithsonian American Art Muse-

Lucky Diaz and Alisha Gaddis. Photo: Carson Sargent

CHART YOUR COURSE TO EXCELLENCE

Apply today for School Year 2023-2024. Seats are limited. Complete the application online through MySchoolDC.org

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The Great Backyard Bird Count

The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) is a free, fun, and easy event that engages bird watchers of all ages in counting birds to create a real-time snapshot of bird populations. Participants are asked to count birds for as little as 15 minutes (or as long as they wish) on one or more days of the four-day event and report their sightings online at birdcount.org. Anyone can take part in the GBBC, from beginning bird watchers to experts, and you can participate from your backyard, or anywhere in the world. This year the annual Great Backyard Bird Count is Friday, Feb. 14, through Monday, Feb. 17. birdcount.org.

Wegmans Wonderplace (for ages six and under) at American History

This learning space at the American History Museum combines age-appropriate activities with museum collections and touchable objects to provide a gateway to history and a place to exercise curiosity for the youngest historians. It is the rst exhibition on the National Mall designed for children up to age six. Wegmans Wonderplace is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Find it on the rst oor of the museum’s west wing. americanhistory.si.edu/ explore/exhibitions/wonderplace.

um, Eighth and G streets NW, on Tuesday, Feb. 11, 10:30 a.m. Free admission. Get tickets at americanart.si.edu/events/art-am-february-11-2025.

The Other Children of the Sun (A mystical realm of Navajo

legend.)

This tale of a Navajo creation legend unfolds not on earth, but in the house of the Sun, where the lesserknown siblings of the Hero Twins reside. These celestial children set forth on a journey to slay monsters—and nd their own place in creation. This whimsical superhero adventure follows the journey of celestial siblings. Writer and co-director Rhiana Yazzie and co-director Steven Paul Judd o er a funny and thought-provoking world premiere play that challenges us to look at heroism through a new lens. $25. At the Kennedy Center Family Theater from Feb. 22 to March

Photo: Hugh Talman, courtesy of the National Museum of American History

9, best suited for ages seven and older. Everyone, regardless of age, must have a ticket. kennedy-center.org.

NMAAHC Kids Story Time: The Way Champs Play

On Saturday, Feb. 15, 10:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., celebrate Black History Month with a National Museum of African American History and Culture Kids Story Time. You’ll learn about history-making Olympians, enjoy an interactive story, The Way Champs Play by tennis champion Naomi Osaka, play sport-inspired games, and celebrate your own accomplishments with a gold medal craft. NMAAHC Kids Story Time is designed for ages four to eight and adult caregivers. Free but registration is required. nmaahc.si.edu/events

National Zoo Webcams

See elephants, lions and naked molerats on animal cams streaming live, 24/7 from the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. The Giant Panda Cam launched on Jan. 24 when the bears made their public debut. nationalzoo.si.edu/webcams.

Hello, Museo (a bilingual English/Spanish program for kids)

Join educators from the National Postal Museum, 2 Massachusetts Ave. NE, every other Tuesday for a bilingual program featuring music, stories, crafts, and gallery exploration. Designed for children aged two to five and their caregivers, but all are welcome. Free. No registration required. postalmuseum.si.edu.

Presidents Day at The Wharf Ice Rink

On Monday, Feb. 17, noon to 5 p.m., The Wharf Ice Rink, which is usually closed on Mondays, is open to skaters. The city’s only overwater rink is on Transit Pier outside The Anthem. Adult (12+) admission with skate rental is $25; $19, without skate rental. Twelve and under admission is $20 with skate rental and $15 without. wharfdc.com/wharf-ice-rink.

The Sky Tonight: Live Planetarium Show

Come to the planetarium at the Air and Space Museum in DC for a live, guided tour of what you can see after sunset. The facilitator will answer questions and customize the program based on audience interests. This planetarium show is free to attend and runs 25 minutes. The Sky Tonight generally takes place on the rst and third Saturday of each month from 10:30 to 11 a.m. airandspace.si.edu.

Joyful ABC Activity Booklets from the NMAAHC

The Joyful ABC Activity Booklet series invites caregivers and educators to support children’s positive identity development while also growing their language and literacy skills with activities, museum objects, and new words. Learn more about the series and download all their available activity booklets for early learners ages three to ve and infants and toddlers. nmaahc.si.edu/learn/early-childhood/joyful-abc-activity-books/ joyful-abc-activity-booklet-series.

Omnium Circus – I’m Possible (The Thrill of Inclusion)

Omnium Circus is a world renowned comprehensively inclusive and accessible circus company bringing excitement, thrills and joy to people of all ages as only a circus can. An Omnium Circus performance includes audio description, tactile experiences, integrated ASL assisted listening devices, closed captions (wherever possible), relaxed performances (All forms of self-expression are welcome.), calming area in lob-

by and ADA seating. Omnium means of all and belonging to all–presenting the best in family circus entertainment. Tickets start at $44. The Omnium Circus is at the Warner Theatre, 513 13th St. NW, on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2 p.m. warnertheatredc.com.

Matilda the Musical at the Little Theater of Alexandria

Matilda Wormwood is an exceptionally gifted child with an extraordinary love of books, an incredibly vivid imagination, and just plain rotten luck in the parental department. Along with her friends and her teacher, Miss Honey, Matilda stands up for justice against the headmistress (appropriately dubbed “The Trunchbull”) and other adults who “can’t be bothered with the a airs of “wretched, lthy children.” The Little Theater of Alexandria, 600 Wolfe St., Alexandria, VA, from Feb. 8 to March 1. While Matilda the Musical is generally considered appropriate for children, it does contain some mild adult language, including occasional mild insults and phrases that might be con-

Free Admission to Mount Vernon on President’s Day

On Monday, Feb. 17, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., celebrate the first president of the United States at his beloved home. Admission is free for Presidents Day. (Washington’s actual birthday was Feb. 11, 1731.) Tickets will be distributed on-site upon arrival; a limited number of tickets are available. Entry to the Mansion is by guided tour only and requires a Mansion tour ticket. The New Room, Servants’ Hall, and Kitchen are open. All other rooms are off-view due to preservation work. mountvernon.org.

sidered slightly mature depending on the context, though there is no explicit swearing. Tickets are $36. thelittletheatre.com.

Family Pickup Ice Hockey

MedStar Capitals Iceplex Family Pickup Hockey is open to parents and kids (all ages) who enjoy non-contact hockey. Each participant pays the $20 entry fee and must be in full gear. This is a fun, easy-going and no contact game for kids and adults. MedStar Capitals Iceplex is a state-of-the-art facility located atop the Ballston Common Mall Parking Garage, 627 No. Glebe Rd., Arlington. Read more and register at medstarcapitalsiceplex.com/page/ show/2864567-pick-up-hockey.

Imagination Stage presents Paper Dreams

This charming and dreamy dance-based performance imagines two friends who

live inside a wastepaper basket. Together they discover what imaginative ideas might unfold from a crumpled piece of paper–can mistakes inspire our greatest ideas? Because the show is non-verbal, it can be enjoyed by people speaking all languages and of any age. DC Theatre Arts called Paper Dreams “an enchanting production that…educates and entertains and sparks inquiry into the creative process for young and old alike.” Imagination Stage presents (non verbal) Paper Dreams at the Atlas INTERSECTIONS Festival, 1333 H St. NE, on Saturday, March 8 and Sunday, March 9 at 10:30 a.m. and noon. Tickets are $20.25. atlasarts.org.

Sesame Street Live! Say Hello! at the Warner

At Sesame Street Live! Say Hello, sing, dance, and play alongside your favorite furry friends, all while you follow Elmo’s puppy, Tango, in a fun game of hide & seek. So put on your dancing

shoes and make your way to where the air is sweet for this all-new celebration on Sesame Street. The show is most enjoyed by ages one to seven but as an action-packed live show, it is enjoyable for the whole family. Tickets are $27 to $124. Sesame Street Live! Say Hello! is at the Warner Theatre, 513 13th St., NW, on Saturday, March 29, 2 p.m. warnertheatredc.com.

The Smithsonian (kid’s) Game Center

The Game Center offers free Smithsonian STEM games and simulations online or for download. Their games are designed with clear learning objectives, vetted by their team of curriculum experts, and are used by students around the world. Here’s the current listing: Shutterbugs: Wiggle and Stomp (kindergarten); Mini Golf Motion (k to fifth); Tami’s Tower: Let’s Think About Engineering (k to second); Showbiz Safari (first to third); Morphy! (third to fifth); Pick Your Plate! A Global Guide to Nutrition (fourth to eighth); Aquation: The Freshwater Access Game (fifth); BumperDucks and Disaster Detector (middle school). ssec.si.edu/game-center.

fatherhood.gov

The National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse is an Office of Family Assistance funded national resource for fathers, practitioners, programs/ Federal grantees, states, and the public at-large who are serving or interested in supporting strong fathers and families. Read more at fatherhood.gov.

Instagram Teen Accounts

Instagram is rolling out a new experience for teens, guided by parents. Teen Accounts automatically limit who can contact teens and the content they can see. With Instagram Teen Accounts, teens automatically get safety settings that limit contact and inappropriate content, as well as settings to ensure

Presidential Family Fun Day at the NPG

On Saturday, Feb. 15, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., celebrate Presidents’ Day at the National Portrait Gallery’s yearly festival for all ages. Whether you want to learn about US presidents through guided tours of the museum’s “America’s Presidents” exhibition, story times, or art-making and writing activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Free but registration encouraged. The National Portrait Gallery is at Eighth and F streets NW. americaspresidents.si.edu.

their time on Instagram is well spent. They’ll notify teens already using Instagram about these changes so Instagram can move them into Teen Accounts within 60 days. If you are a parent and want to help your teen manage their new safety settings, work with them to set up supervision at familycenter.meta.com/ourproducts/instagram/#supervision. u

Our seventh president (1829-1837), Andrew Jackson’s life was colored by struggle, conflict, and aggression. The orphan of impoverished immigrants, he was the only American president to have been a prisoner of war or to have killed a man in a duel.

The US Army 3rd Infantry, the Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, and the Commander-inChief’s Guard demonstrate Revolutionary War battle tactics and customs at Mount Vernon.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 02-2025

BODY WORN CAMERAS AND TASERS

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Office of Public Safety (OPS) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Body Worn Cameras and Tasers for this solicitation.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Monday, February 10, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

Respondents will then need to log in and locate this RFP for all related documents. It is the Proposers responsibility to check the Housing Agency Marketplace site regularly to stay current on the documents that are available as this is the primary communication site for this RFP.

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See the registration link below.

https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

DCHA will provide either a live or pre-recorded demonstration for any vendors unfamiliar with the platform.

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Monday, February 24, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email Jasmin Travis, Procurement Specialist (OAS) at Jtravis@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.

PLAYGROUND AND MAINTENANCE REPAIRS

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Property Management Office (PMO) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Playground and Maintenance Repairs for this solicitation.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Monday, February 10, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See the registration link below. https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

DCHA will provide either a live or pre-recorded demonstration for any vendors unfamiliar with the platform.

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Tuesday, March 10, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email Jasmin Travis, Procurement Specialist (OAS) at Jtravis@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: DCHA- 19-2025

WASHER AND DRYER MACHINE INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Washer and Dryer Machine Installation and Maintenance for this solicitation.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Monday, February 10, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506 Respondents will then need to log in and locate this RFP for all related documents. It is the Proposers responsibility to check the Housing Agency Marketplace site regularly to stay current on the documents that are available as this is the primary communication site for this RFP.

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See the registration link below. https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

DCHA will provide either a live or pre-recorded demonstration for any vendors unfamiliar with the platform.

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Monday, March 03, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email Pernell Wingate, Sr. Contract Specialist (OAS) at pwingate@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.

HOTEL AND LODGING ACCOMMODATIONS

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Property Management Office (PMO) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Hotel and Lodging Accommodations for this solicitation.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Monday, February 10, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506 Respondents will then need to log in and locate this RFP for all related documents. It is the Proposers’ responsibility to check the Housing Agency Marketplace site regularly to stay current on the documents that are available as this is the primary communication site for this RFP.

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See the registration link below.

https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506 DCHA will provide either a live or pre-recorded demonstration for any vendors unfamiliar with the platform.

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Thursday, March 06, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email Abdul Karim Farooqi, Procurement Specialist (OAS) at afarooqi@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION

NO.: DCHA- 33-2025

GENERAL CONSTRUCTION FOR JUDICIARY HOUSE

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide General Construction for this solicitation.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Monday, February 10, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

Respondents will then need to log in and locate this RFP for all related documents. It is the Proposers’ responsibility to check the Housing Agency Marketplace site regularly to stay current on the documents that are available as this is the primary communication site for this RFP.

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See the registration link below.

https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

DCHA will provide either a live or pre-recorded demonstration for any vendors unfamiliar with the platform.

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE

Monday March 03, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email Pernell Wingate, Sr. Contract Specialist (OAS) at pwingate@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.

HCVP PROFESSIONAL CONSULTING SERVICES

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Executive Office (OED) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide HCVP Professional Consulting Services for this solicitation.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Monday, February 10, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See the registration link below. https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

DCHA will provide either a live or pre-recorded demonstration for any vendors unfamiliar with the platform.

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Friday, February 21, 2025 at 12:00 p.m.

Email Jasmin Travis, Procurement Specialist (OAS) at Jtravis@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 36-2025

PUBLIC HOUSING PROGRAM CONSULTING SERVICES

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Executive Office (OED) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Public Housing Program Consulting Services for this solicitation.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Monday, February 10, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See the registration link below.

https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

DCHA will provide either a live or pre-recorded demonstration for any vendors unfamiliar with the platform.

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Friday, February 21, 2025 at 12:00 p.m.

Email Jasmin Travis, Procurement Specialist (OAS) at Jtravis@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.

HCVP CONSULTING SERVICES

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Office of the Executive Director (OED) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Housing Choice Voucher Program Consulting Services for this solicitation.

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See the registration link below.

https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

DCHA will provide either a live or pre-recorded demonstration for any vendors unfamiliar with the platform.

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Monday, February 24, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email Jasmin Travis, Procurement Specialist (OAS) at Jtravis@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.