East of the River Magazine – August 2024 by Capital Community News

Tepid Enforcement May Doom Medical Cannabis: Legal Operators Struggle to Compete With Unregulated Store by Elizabeth O’Gorek and Sarah Payne

EAST WASHINGTON

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band at Nat’s Park

Nicknamed “The Boss”, Bruce Springsteen is known for his lyrics and energetic concerts, with performances that can last more than four hours. Beginning in 1973, he has released 21 studio albums which include such iconic songs such as Born to Run, Streets of Philadelphia, Thunder Road, badlands, and Blinded by the Light. The Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band concert scheduled for Sept. 29 at Nationals Park has been rescheduled for Saturday, Sept. 7, 7:30 p.m., at Nationals Park. All tickets for the original show will be valid. Tickets are $59 to $299+. mlb.com/nationals/tickets/events.

DC Jazzfest at The Wharf

The 20th Annual DC JazzFest takes place on Aug. 31 and Sept. 1, 2 to 10 p.m., both days, on The Wharf’s District Pier, with 20+ concerts, interviews and exclusive events featuring international superstars and homegrown talent. This year, seated and VIP ticket holders get access to performances at The Wharf, Union Stage and Arena Stage throughout Labor Day Weekend. Here’s a partial lineup: Stanley Clark N3Ever; Emmet Cohen Trio; Carmen Lundy, Nicholas Payton, David Murray Quartet, Michael Thomas Quintet, Steven Arnold, Masar Abadeyand Supernova, Joe Block Open Heart Trio, Paola Fresu… Standing tickets are $25; seated, $150. For the complete JazzFest around-town lineup, visit dcjazzfest.org/lineup. wharfdc.com.

National Book Festival

The 2024 Library of Congress National Book Festival is at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Allen Y. Lew Pl. NW, on Saturday, Aug. 24, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. (doors at 8:30 a.m.). Featured authors are Sandra Cisneros, Tamron Hall, James Patterson, Doris Kearns Goodwin and Max Greenfield. The event is free and open to the public. For those who cannot attend in person, a selection of programs will be livestreamed, and videos of all programs will be available shortly after the Festival. loc.gov/events/2024-national-book-festival.

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

Around the World Cultural Food Festival

On Saturday, Aug. 24, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., at Oronoco Bay Park in Old Town Alexandria, enjoy a celebration of cultures from every corner of the world. Indulge your taste buds in a world of flavors. This free festival features over 20 ethnic food vendors, each one of them representing a country and serving authentic food. You can also immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions with performances that showcase the rich tapestry of global cultures and explore vendors offering unique treasures, from handmade crafts to cultural artifacts, creating a market reflecting the beauty of our interconnected world. visitalexandria.com.

Paris 1874: The Impressionist Moment at the NGA

From Sept. 8 to Jan. 19, 2025, discover the origins of the French art movement in a new look at the radical 1874 exhibition considered the birth of modern painting. A remarkable presentation of 130 works includes a rare reunion of many of the paintings first featured in that now-legendary exhibition. Revisit beloved paintings by Paul Cézanne, Edgar Degas, Claude Monet, Berthe Morisot, Camille Pissarro, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir and meet their lesser-known contemporaries. Don’t miss the unique chance to immerse yourself in the dynamic Parisian art scene of 1874—the National Gallery of Art is the only American stop for this historic exhibition. nga.gov.

DC State Fair at Franklin Park

The DC State Fair, Saturday, Sept. 7, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Franklin Park, 1332 I St. NW, is a free showcase of the District’s creative talents and a daylong celebration of all things homegrown. Inspired by time-honored state fair traditions—growing and gardening, contests, and deep-fried foods—the Fair honors the things that make DC unique such as competitions to find the tastiest mumbo sauce, best honey, and the top photographers with a creative eye. Among many activities, the 15th Annual DC State Fair includes 50+ exhibitors including local makers, community organizations, food vendors, government agencies, universities, live performances, children’s activities, arts, demonstrations, and blue-ribbon presentations for 30+ contests. Those wishing to enter a competition must do so by 9 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 16. dcstatefair.org.

Soft Power at Signature

After the 2016 election, when a Chinese American playwright is attacked by an unknown assailant, he hallucinates a Golden Age musical comedy about a Chinese theater producer and Hillary Clinton falling in love. Hilarious and biting, this political satire dares to ask: Does American Democracy still work? And is it worth believing in? An exhilarating ride through political absurdity with a faceoff between Chinese and American exceptionalism, from Aug. 6 to Sept. 15, Soft Power makes an electric debut at Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington. Tickets start at $40. sigtheatre.org.

Claude Monet, Impression, Sunrise, 1872, oil on canvas, Musée Marmottan Monet, Paris, Gift of Eugène and Victorine Donop de Monchy, 1940. Photo: © Musée Marmottan Monet / Studio Christian Baraja SLB.

Pie sampling during contest day for the 2023 DC State Fair.

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis at Wolf Trap

On Thursday, Aug. 15, 8 p.m. (gates at 6:30 p.m.), the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis brings the brass—plus piano, drums, and bass—to Wolf Trap for an evening of improvisation and inspiration. A nine-time Grammy winner, National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master and Pulitzer Prize recipient, Marsalis is the artistic director for the 15-member big band and one of the most prominent jazz musicians today. The tight-playing ensemble shares their works and interprets the classics in this can’t-miss show. Jazz singer, composer, and MacArthur “genius grant” recipient Cécile McLorin Salvant opens the show with her captivating voice. Tickets start at $35. wolftrap.org.

Art Enables’ Sayonara Summer Market

Art Enables, 2204 Rhode Island Ave. NE, is an art gallery and vocational arts program dedicated to creating opportunities for artists with disabilities to make, market, and earn income from their original and compelling artwork. In addition to earning income from art sales, artists build the skills, relationships, and experience necessary for a successful career in the arts. Art Enables’ artists are largely self-taught and tell powerful stories through their artwork. Art Enables’ Sayonara Summer Market is on Saturday, Sept. 7, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at their gallery on Rhode Island Avenue. The Market which will also feature a DJ and face painting, will highlight the work of 15+ DMV artists for browsing and/or buying. art-enables.org.

Capitol Hill Art Walk

On Saturday, Sept. 7 and Sunday, Sept. 8, noon to 4 p.m., both days, local artists and artisans display (and sell) their work in their own micro-galleries, in Capitol Hill homestudios, on porches or in yards. Artists provide a venue on Capitol Hill that is not a commercial gallery or frame shop. Most will have it at their own home or studio, inside, or outdoors on a porch or in the yard, but they may also team up with a friend at a shared or “borrowed” location. The event is free for artists and attendees; no fees, commissions or tickets. For artists who want to participate, the registration deadline is Aug. 17. For a current listing of the walk locations, visit hillrag.com/2024/07/10/art-walk-2024.

Road to Revolution at the National Archives

Road to Revolution is an exhibition series highlighting National Archives records that document major milestones and critical historical context to the American Revolution, the Revolutionary War, and the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. Augmenting the well-known sequence of events in the two years preceding July 4, 1776, are displays that focus on the diverse experiences and perspectives for members of the Founding generation whose stories are less well known—including Native Americans, free and enslaved African Americans, and women. “Roots of Rebellion,” which is the first display in the larger series, will be up through Aug. 28. The full series, called Road to Revolution, will end on August 6, 2026. 701 Constitution Ave. NW. museum.archives.gov.

The First Blow for Liberty. Battle of Lexington, April 1775. National Archives, John K. Hillers Collection.

Wynton Marsalis

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

Flying Circus Hot Air Balloon Festival

On Saturday, Aug. 10 and Sunday, Aug. 11, hot air balloons launch in the early morning hours of 7 to 9 a.m. and late afternoon hours of 6 to 8 p.m. (Ballooning requires very light winds and an absence of thermal activity to be safe and enjoyable, therefore, most balloons fly in the early morning and late evening hours.) Tethered balloon rides are $20 for adults and $10 for kids. Free flight rides are $300. (Most balloon baskets will hold a pilot and two or more passengers.) Airplane rides will also be available during the balloon launches. Admission is $20 for adults; $15 for military; and $10 for kids five to twelve. The Flying Circus Aerodrome is located 14 miles from Warrenton, VA at 5114 Ritchie Rd. (Route 644) in Bealeton, VA. flyingcircusairshow.com.

Dom Flemons on the Millennium Stage

As a resolute preservationist, storyteller, and instrumentalist, Dom Flemons has long set himself apart by finding forgotten folk songs and making them live again. He has branded the moniker The American Songster since his repertoire of music covers over 100 years of early American popular music. Dom Flemons is on the Millennium Stage at the Kennedy Center on Friday, Aug. 16, 6 p.m. Free. A limited number of advance reservations are available. Advance reservations do not guarantee a seat, and patrons are encouraged to arrive early. Seating is also first come, first served. Standing room is available behind the seated area as space allows. kennedy-center.org.

The War and Treaty at The Hamilton

Founded in 2014 by the husband-and-wife duo Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Trotter, The War and Treaty has emerged as one of the most electrifying new acts in American music. Recently earning their first ever GRAMMY nominations for Best New Artist and Best American Roots Song for “Blank Page,” they also received this year their first ever Duo of the Year nomination from the Country Music Association, Vocal Duo nomination from the Academy of Country Music, plus recognition by the Country Music Hall of Fame, Grand Ole Opry, and Americana Music Association including earning AMA Duo/Group of the Year for the second straight year. The War and Treaty is at The Hamilton, 600 14th St. NW, on Thursday, July 22, 8 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.). Tickets start at $25. live.thehamiltondc.com.

Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Trotter.

Maryland Renaissance Festival

Unique among most festivals, including renaissance festivals, the Maryland Renaissance Festival utilizes a story line and progresses each year forward in the timeline of Henry VIII, through all his reign. This season is set in the year 1537. The king is married to his third wife, Jane Seymour. The royal couple and select courtiers are visiting Revel Grove to enjoy the Harvest Festival. In honor of the royal visit, the Revel Grove Dance Company will perform a lively dance, the Tourdion. And it isn’t only the dancers who will be twisting. All in Court must bend and twist to stay in the King’s favor. Even his recent bride Jane. She makes a tactical error by pleading for mercy for the participants of the Pilgrimage of Grace rebellion. Henry coldly reminds her of the fate of her predecessor when she meddled in his affairs. The 2024 Festival is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Aug. 24, 25, Labor Day Weekend and every other weekend through Sept. 20. Adults are $26 to $32; kids, $14 to $18; seniors, $23 to $28. Online purchases only and bring cash to the Festival. rennfest.com.

Maryland Renaissance Festival Jousting.

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

Turandot: Opera in the Outfield

Color… pageantry… spectacle… there’s a reason why Turandot is at the top of the opera canon. Puccini’s final work mesmerizes with its sumptuous music, from the alluring overture to Prince Calaf’s passionate “Nessun dorma,” one of the world’s most famous arias ever written. On Saturday, Aug. 24, 6:30 p.m. (gates at 4:30 p.m.), the Washington National Opera continues its partnership with the Washington Nationals with an Opera in the Outfield free presentation of Puccini’s beloved Turandot which is performed in Italian with projected English titles. Arrive early to enjoy entertainment and activities including photo opportunities for kids of all ages and performances by local artists. Free seating is available on the outfield grass (weather permitting) and in the stands. Nationals Park is at 1500 South Capitol St. SE. Parking is available in Garage C for $25 per car. You can enter the garage at First Street SE. kennedy-center.org.

Voting by Mail: Civil War to Covid-19

The presidential election year is the appropriate time to reflect on past examples of national voting by mail. An exhibition to this effect at the National Postal Museum includes objects from its collection, including a mailed tally sheet from 1864 recording the votes of soldiers from Highland County, Ohio; an absentee ballot request postcard for an Alabama soldier during World War II; a 5-cent postage stamp reminding citizens to register and vote; a complete absentee ballot kit and instruction sheet from the last presidential election in 2020, and others. Voting by Mail: Civil War to Covid-19 is at the Smithsonian National Postal Museum, 2 Massachusetts Ave. NE., from Aug. 24 to Feb. 23, 2025. Open daily 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. postalmuseum.si.edu.

Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures

Embark on a unique adventure through the life of King Tutankhamun and the discovery of his tomb with fascinating audio content and never-beforeseen artwork. You can explore replicas of the king’s treasures and tomb in one place. The originals are currently housed in separate locations, but this exhibition features exquisite true-to-life replicas, making it the most complete collection of the Egyptian king’s life and legacy. Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures is at Rhode Island Center, 524 Rhode Island Ave. NE, through Aug. 31. The one-and-a-half-hour experience is available every day but Tuesday. Tickets start at $33.90 for adults; $25.90 for kids. All ages welcome. tutankhamunexpo.com/washington-dc.

WWE Friday Night Smackdown at Capitol One Arena

As in other professional wrestling shows, World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) shows are not true contests but entertainment-based performance theater, featuring storyline-driven, scripted, and partially choreographed matches; however, matches often include moves that can put performers at risk of injury if not performed correctly. WWE markets its product as sports entertainment, acknowledging professional wrestling’s roots in competitive sport and dramatic theater. Capitol One Arena, 601 F St. NW, on Friday, Aug. 23, 7:45 p.m. Tickets are $45 to $175. capitalonearena.com.

Ewa Plonka. Photo: Corey Weaver

Absentee ballot request postcard, 1944

WHAT’S

Day-long Local Theater Festival at the REACH

On Saturday, Aug. 24, starting at 10 a.m., join the Kennedy Center for their second annual Local Theatre Festival at the REACH campus. This free day-long festival celebrates the vibrant theater community of the DMV, showcasing the creative works of local theater companies and playwrights. Theatre fans, professionals, and students will experience works-in-progress readings from previous Kennedy Center Local Theatre Resident artists; engage in workshops and panels led by industry professionals; and explore a curated resource session tailored for DMV theater fans and professionals, offering valuable information for all. Registration opens about 10 days prior to the festival. Registration is required for all panels, workshops, and events. Doors open 15 minutes before each event. Walkups will be allowed to participate, pending available space. kennedy-center.org.

Adams Morgan Day

For 46 years, Adams Morgan Day has been a family-friendly celebration with music, art and activities for all ages. Adams Morgan Day is DC’s longest running neighborhood festival, welcoming residents and visitors alike to meet their neighborhood businesses, artists, and service organizations. This years’ Adams Morgan Day is on Sunday, Sept. 8, mostly along 18th St. NW. Find the schedule of events, timing and locations as the Festival draws closer at admoday.com.

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac at the National

Montgomery County Agricultural Fair

The Montgomery County Agricultural Fair “Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow” is celebrating its 75th year on Aug. 9 to 17. Grandstand events include: Red Eye Rodeo; Truck & Tractor Pull; Demolition Derby; Monster Truck Tour. Animal exhibits open each day at 3 p.m. Carnival hours are Aug. 9, 3 p.m. to midnight; Aug. 10, 16 and 17, noon to midnight; Aug. 11 through 15, noon to 11 p.m. General admission is $15 ($12, online); kids 11 and under are free. The Fair is at 501 Perry Pkwy., Gaithersburg, MD. mcagfair.com.

Personally endorsed by Fleetwood Mac founding member, Mick Fleetwood, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac is the ultimate tribute to one of rock and roll’s most remarkable groups. Channeling the spirit of Fleetwood Mac at their very best, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac offers a unique opportunity for fans, both old and new, to rediscover the songs and performances that have ensured Fleetwood Mac’s place as one of the most loved groups of all time. National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, on Friday, Aug. 9 and Saturday, Aug. 10, at 8 p.m., both nights. Tickets are $55 to $130+. broadwayatthenational.com.

The Gaslight Anthem at The Anthem

Since coming together in 2007, The Gaslight Anthem has forged its own powerful, populist sound, marrying their punk roots with rich craft and raw emotional power to create a soulful, exhilarating, and utterly unique vision of American rock ‘n’ roll. After releasing their debut album, SINK OR SWIM, and then the SEÑOR AND THE QUEEN EP, 2008’s THE ’59 SOUND officially saw the New Jersey-based band break out on a global scale, with songs like “Great Expectations,” and “Old White Lincoln.” At The Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW, on Tuesday, Aug. 20, 8 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.). Tickets are $45 to $75. Theanthemdc.com.

Tepid Enforcement May Doom Medical Cannabis Legal Operators Struggle to Compete With Unregulated Stores

by Elizabeth O’Gorek, with additional reporting from Sarah Payne

We’re just losing money every month,” said Grace Hyde, director of operations for District Cannabis, a licensed cultivator, manufacturer and cannabis retailer. Five such businesses have closed in DC since June—three cultivation centers and two retailers.

According to Frontier Data, there is a $600 million illegal cannabis market in the District. In contrast, legal cannabis sales only amount to $35 million. In the third quarter of 2024, medical dispensary sales were down by more than $1.5 million compared to 2023, according to the Alcohol and Cannabis Administration’s (ABCA) statistics.

Owners of the 10 legal medical cannabis dis-

pensaries blame the losses on unregulated competitors. The solution, they say, is effective enforcement. “If we don’t see serious action here, in the next month or two, we’re going to continue to see businesses closing,” stated Hyde.

Boom Times

A huge unregulated cannabis market operates alongside its regulated medical counterpart. These so-called I-71 businesses are named for the DC referendum legalizing private marijuana consumption.

Despite the wishes of District voters, Congress blocked the creation of a regulated consumer cannabis market. Marijuana sales are illegal, but the terms of

the I-71 referendum permit private citizens to gift up to one ounce to another adult. A plethora of cannabis businesses seized on this loophole to include a “gift” of marijuana along with sale of another retail item.

These so-called I-71 businesses are not exploiting a legal loophole, said DC Council member Charles Allen (Ward 6-D), who introduced legislation to increase enforcement. “That’s made-up thing.”

In 2022, the District expanded its medical market to allow I-71 businesses to participate. The result has been a boom in license applications.

As of July, a review of the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Board (ABC Board) proceedings shows ABCA received more than 200 applications for canna-

Green Theory founders Ian Tsang, Jonathan Crandall and Caroline Crandall in front of their new shop (4828 MacArthur Blvd. NW).

Courtesy: Green Theory

bis business licenses. The ABC Board has approved only 14 licenses. Another fifty or so applications are scheduled for hearings.

In the meantime, dozens of unregulated, I-71 cannabis businesses continue to operate in the District. Just type “cannabis” or “weed” into Google maps for a sampling.

Medical Cannabis Remains Expensive

Linda Greene is the founder of Anacostia Organics, the first medical dispensary to open east of the river. She said it is difficult for customers to know if they are walking into a legal business or not. “We’ve asked the city repeatedly to give us some type of official sign to put on our door,” she said. Many customers don’t even realize they are patronizing an unregulated, illegal business, she said, because there is no way to visually differentiate.

Medical cannabis businesses must implement Metric, ABCA’s seed to sale tracking system. They also must buy product from licensed DC cultivators, who test the product for potency and contamination by mold or chemicals. “When you are legally licensed, you are inspected, regulated, tracked,” Greene

said. “It’s very regulated and extremely expensive, because we’re still federally illegal,” she added. For example, cannabis dispensaries are required to carry multiple insurance policies, she said, which are expensive since cannabis is federally a Schedule One substance.

Caroline Crandall, her husband Jonathan Crandall and partner Ian Tsang were one of the first successful applicants for a medical dispensary license under the 2023 law. They opened in April 2024 after investing hundreds of thousands of dollars of their own savings to renovate a location, install Metric and pay the $16,000 licensing fee.

“One of our biggest problems right now is that when someone comes into our store, we are a medical store, so they have to have a medical card,” Crandall said. Many customers, Crandall said, are federal employees reluctant to have their name tied to substance use, however legal. So many of them choose to take the risk and turn to the illegally operating I-71 retailers.

Crandall appreciates the quality of the product she buys from licensed manufacturers and farmers. However, it comes with a cost that is double what

I-71 retailers typically pay for unregulated weed, she said.

No Enforcement

As of July 25, Alcohol Beverage Cannabis Authority (ABCA) had issued 55 warnings and eight cease and desist orders to illegally operating cannabis retailers in the District of Columbia. The latest, dated July 10, order retailers to quit selling cannabis or face shut down within 15 days.

ABCA is empowered to padlock non-compliant cannabis businesses. As of July 28th, more than 15 days after the last of these notices were issued, ABCA had not locked a business.

Yet enforcement has been shown to be effective. In May, New York City Mayor Eric Adams initiated “Operation Padlock to Protect,” empowering police to padlock smoke and cannabis shops operating without a license. By late June, City Hall spokeswoman Amaris Cockfield said the mayor’s joint task force had padlocked 450 illegal shops and issued more than $33 million in penalties.

Legal dispensaries located near the shuttered illegal shops have since seen a 27 percent rise in sales, Governor Kathy Hochul told CBS news in July. Yet DC has yet to padlock a single business.

According to board testimony, ABCA enters businesses for inspection with a cross-agency team. The team includes representatives from the Department of Health (DOH) who can verify and impound illegal edibles, representatives of the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection, (DLCP) which verify business licenses as well as officers from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). The latter secures the door during inspection to prevent entry by custom-

ers and ensure safety throughout.

Board documents indicate that an ABCA inspector will visit an establishment multiple times. If they find unregulated cannabis on first inspection, ABCA issues a warning. On the second inspection, the agency submits a report to the board, which can issue a ceaseand-desist order. The parties to the order are both the business owner and the property owner. Either has the right to ask for hearing before the Board at which the facts are reviewed and the Board either revokes, sustains or reissues the order with different terms. If the investigated business does not request a Board hearing, the order becomes final within 10 days. If cannabis is found for sale on a third visit from ABCA, the agency has authority to shut the businesses down.

ABCA lacks sufficient resources to investigate the dozens of I-71 businesses that dot the District, Hyde said. “They have the authority that they need,” Hyde said of ABCA, “but they need more support,” she said.

ABCA did not respond to inquiries regarding inspection staffing. However, the agency appears to have a single Supervisory Investigator (SI), Jason Peru, conducting cannabis inspections. Peru is the only ABCA representative referenced in the eight issued cease-and-desist orders.

Despite this, ABCA enforcement appears to be ramping up. There were two inspections in April, three in May and six in June, agency records reveal.

Hyde is not hopeful about increased enforcement. “It’s not going to happen,” she said. “We’re coming up on a tenuous election cycle, so [MPD] availability to help is only going to become more scarce.” DC officials, Hyde said, don’t have the same kind of will to get it done that NYC has shown, pointing to the role of DC Mayor Muriel Bowser in getting ABCA inter-agency support.

Screenshot: as of July 30, cannabis product appeared to be offered for sale on a website associated with a business called All the Buzz; the address given is 3232 Georgia Ave. NW. Screenshot: allthebuzzdc.com/ shop 1:50 p.m. July 30, 2024.

“The mayor has been silent on this issue forever,” Hyde said. “We’ve been talking to her about this for three years. It’s not like she’s been unaware of what’s going on. She knows how much this is harming us, and she has done nothing to solve the problem.”

“DC is conducting a sustained multi-agency enforcement strategy to shut down illegally-operating cannabis operations and protect the legal marketplace in accordance with DC law. The Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration is currently expanding its cannabis enforcement team and investing in new tools to aid investigations. Our continued goals for DC’s medical cannabis program are to serve patients, create pathways to entrepreneurship and employment, and ensure safety for DC residents,” stated the Executive Office of the Mayor.

Under the law, ABCA can fine landlords renting to illegal cannabis shops $10,000. The amount can increase if an identified issue remains unaddressed. There are 200 to 300 commercial property leases with illegal marijuana businesses, one legal source familiar with the cannabis industry estimated.

ABCA issues its cease-and-desist orders letters to both the business owner and the property owner. Enforcement efforts to date have only proceeded against business owners. The Hill Rag found no evidence that ABCA has fined a single landlord.

Confusion at the ABCA Board

ABCA enforcement has yet to yield much fruit. To date, the agency has ordered eight companies to cease operations. A number exercised their right to a Board hearing. As of July 24, the ABC Board only held two such proceedings. In both cases, confusion about both the law and gathered evidence apparently led to the Board either lifting or further investigating the cease-and-desist orders.

Co-owners Princess Mirabal

and Davina Hale operate two businesses at 825 Upshur St. NW. The first, Cannabis Karma, sold consumable cannabis products. The second, “Life Luxee” is a cannabis lifestyle store selling t-shirts, glasses and pipes. Peru found cannabis at the address during a March inspection. Based on his evidence, ABCA issued the owners a warning. During a follow-up inspection on July 2, Peru found hemp-derived CBD on their premises. ABCA issued the ceaseand-desist order eight days later.

At the July 24th hearing, the owner’s attorney Amber Maiden objected to the cease-and-desist order. A closure, Maiden argued, would prevent them from operating their legal business. Moreover, owners believed they were operating legally given the 2018 Federal Farm Act, which removed hemp from the federal schedule of controlled substances, she said. This, despite a 2021 opinion by the DC Office of the Attorney General that stated the law does not require the District to permit sales of hemp-derived CBD, which is considered cannabis and so regulated under District law.

Maiden argued against the Attorney General’s finding. Larger chain stores such as Walmart and YES Organics are selling hemp-derived substances without interference from ABCA, she pointed out. ABCA’s action had made it difficult for Hale and Mirabal to continue to operate Life Luxee, though it remained open, she said, “But it’s doing so under severe economic distress.”

“It is a small minority own women-owned business and it has [us] concerned that these new District laws were passed specifically to harm small independent businesses and to prevent them from competing with larger corporate interests where CBD products are frequently sold without

any legal repercussions from ABCA,” said Maiden.

Owners had taken the product off the shelf, locking it into a cabinet and taping it closed, owner Mirabal said. “I don’t know what else you want us to do. We’ve taken out the product and contacted our retailers,” she said.

The Board took the matter “under advisement,” meeting with lawyers in closed session. Final disposition of that matter remains unclear.

On July 10, The Board lifted the cease-and-desist order against All the Buzz at 3232 Georgia Ave. NW. At issue was the evidence provided by Peru. There was no cannabis onsite on the date of inspection, argued owners James and Gina Goldring. The evidence the inspector produced was gathered next door, they said. The Board rescinded the order to allow All the Buzz to continue operations as a t-shirt making company. The owners have applied for a medical retailer’s license.

However, as of publication the website associated with a business of the same name and address is still operational, selling t-shirts and face masks online with the “gift” of flower and edibles, all for pick-up at the store. This appears to be a potential oversight. On July 22, Peru pointed out that as of the hearing date, Cannabis Karma also continued to offer online sales. At that time, Mirabel said that she was working with her web developer to remove those offerings; by the time of publication, she had done so.

Representatives from Cannabis Karma could not be reached. All the Buzz did not respond to requests for comment.

Real action needs to be taken, said Crandall. “Giving paperwork to people, in my opinion, especially in this industry…” Crandall trails off. “A lot of people are just going to ignore it and keep operating until the police come to the store and take their product. u

DCPL Contracts for a New Congress Heights Library

On July 15, 2021, Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) announced the plans to build a new Parklands-Turner/Congress Heights Library next to the Congress Heights Metro stop.

The DC Public Library (DCPL) has retained the architecture firm of Perkins&Will and Turner

Construction Company to design and build the new facility which will be located at 1290 Alabama Ave. SE. Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2025 and be completed in mid- to late 2027.

The new library will replace the current Parklands-Turner Library at 1547 Alabama Ave SE, said DCPL Executive Director Richard Reyes-Gavilan.

“The library in Parklands is a very, very small space,” said Reyes-Gavilan. It “is about 6,000 square feet and doesn’t allow for a lot of the things that the community wants from the new library,” he said.

The New Design

“This new library will be 20,000 plus square feet,” said Perkins&Will Senior Architect Nancy Gribeluk. The size is in line with that of other existing city libraries. “The reason for relocating the library in Parklands on Metro’s property is for a bigger space with more programs to offer its neighborhood residents,” she added. DCPL Director of Capital Planning and Construction Jaspreet Pahwa is also excited about the project’s placement.

Renderings and blueprints show a modern and inviting space for reading, studying, and community gatherings. The new library will also host upgraded technology as well as improved accessibility features.

Some of the features that will come with the new library include a co-working area, conference room, multipurpose room, study rooms, focus rooms,

makerspace lab, podcast recording room, music recording studio, production/editing space, staff/support spaces, and support desk.

Other features that the new library will offer to the public include a calming courtyard, active courtyard, adult services, teen services as well as services for the children and youth.

“Getting feedback from the residents in the community about this project to redesign a public library that’s historical to the Congress Heights community is something that’s needed,” says Perkins&Will Senior Interior Designer Kate Currie.

The Congress Heights library project is being funded through a combination of city funds and private donations.

Community

“It’s imperative that we do our best to provide more resources, especially a brand-new library during a time

Entry View

The current Parkland-Turner Library.

Article and photos by Brittany McAlister

where we’ve seen an increase in achievement for our kids here in the city,” said Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White (D) “More programming is one of the critical reasons why the Congress Heights community is getting a new library as it is a hub for learning.”

Ward 8 resident Ramone Beasely is ready for the new library to open up. “I can’t wait to take advantage of all the services it will offer me,” he told East of the River. He adds that the library will be in a safer location when it is finished as there is more police presence in and around the metro due to Congress Heights now being an up-and-coming neighborhood.

Jacqueline Dailey, a Prince Georges County resident who grew up in Ward 8, thinks it is a good thing for the community that the old Parklands-Turner library is built adjacent to the metro station.

Ward 8 Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Zhavaria Ferrel is looking forward to getting a new library. “I like the idea that they are expanding the library and relocating it to the parking lot surrounded by the metro station,” she said.

Ward 8 Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Amanda Beale (8C08) believes the new library will attract more users, drawn to its expanded activities and resources. It will serve as a safe space for children and teenagers; and is easily Metro and handicapped accessible, she said.

The new Congress Heights library holds great promise. DCPL encourages community members to provide more feedback on its design. For more information, visit www.dclibrary.org/news/ new-parklands-turner-congress-heightslibrary. u

Ramone Nathan Beasley.

Douglas Street Developments Raise Concern

ANC 7D Report

by Sarah Payne

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 7D met July 9 via Zoom. Commissioners Wendell Felder (7D03, chair), Commissioner Mike Davis (7D04), Commissioner Ebony Payne (7D05), Marc Friend (7D06), Brett Astmann (7D07, treasurer), Brian Alcorn (7D08, vice chair), Ashley Schapitl (7D09), secretary) and Brianne Eby-Stockert (7D10) were in attendance. Commissioner Siraaj Hasan (7D01) was absent. Single Member District 7D02 remains vacant.

District Properties Group (DPG, www.districtpropertygroup.com) has filed applications with the Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) to construct a new detached residences at 4533 Douglas St. NE (BZA Case No. 20769) and 4337 Douglas St. NE (BZA Case No. 20768). In both cases, the group has requested special exceptions from the side yard requirements and the regulations governing the 100-year flood plain. A 100-year flood plain is an area that has a 1% chance of flooding in any given year, on average.

Several community members “reached out very adamantly against the project” to develop the new homes, reported Easton Gardens Civic Association President Junel Jeffery. Neighbors are concerned about the increased density, which they fear will shadow their residences as well as the overall increase in housing density.

LNDC Inc. (www.lndcinc.com), DPG’s development partner, has spoken to neighbors nearby the property, a representative said. Some of the residents have been supportive while others have opposed the project, the person reported.

Vice Chair Alcorn raised concerns about the location of the houses in the 100-year flood plain.

“Climate change is impacting the built environment, and putting a prospective homeowner in the way of a flood that can be anticipated strikes me as a bad public policy perspective,” Alcorn said.

Alcorn emphasized that even a “flood resilient property” could still suffer significant damage from flooding conditions.

LNDC will provide flood vents and flood certifications, the representative responded.

The commission voted to ask BZA to postpone the hearings on the applications to give the commission and community members time to resolve their concerns with LNDC and DPG and give Commissioner Hasan, the area’s representative, an opportunity to provide feedback.

Other Matters

The commission voted to:

• write to the Commission on the Arts and Humanities in support of a sculpture installation at Kingman and Heritage Islands;

• support a BZA application to subdivide an existing lot at 1801 D St. NE into two lots and construct one three-story attached principal dwelling and one three-story semidetached principal dwelling unit;

• submit name recommendations for an unnamed alley in square 1084 to DC Council.

The commission does not meet in August. It will meet next on Sept. 10 at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. You can learn more about the commission and register to at-

tend at 7d0761.wixsite.com/anc7d-1.

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

Development Arrives at Eastern Navy Yard ANC 8F Report

by Andrew Lightman

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 8F met on July 23. Commissioners Nic Wilson (8F01, treasurer), Rick Murphree (8F02, vice chair), Brian Strege (8F03, secretary), Edward Daniels (8F04, chair) and Clayton Rosenberg (8F05) were in attendance.

DC Office of Planning (OP) Senior Development Specialist Karen Thomas briefed the commission on her agency’s plans to zone the eastern section of the Navy Yard. Using a text and map amendments, her agency plans to establish the Navy Yard East Zone, a special purpose zone to allow residential and commercial development on the eastern section of the Navy Yard.

The Navy Yard East Zone will be able to accommodate buildings up to 130 feet in height with a Floor Area Ratios (FAR) of 7 for commercial and 8

for residential uses. Significant improvements are planned for the public spaces along the Anacostia River abutting the 11th Street Bridge, stated Thomas.

Currently, the parcel is owned by the Navy. The service plans to swap this land for another undeveloped parcel owned by the US General Services Administration (GSA) just to the west of the Harris Teeter. It plans to use that land as the site of a future Navy Museum. The GSA has partnered with private developer Redbrick LMD (www. redbricklmd.com) to create a new neighborhood.

Commissioners were generally very supportive of the project. Will there be opportunities for homeownership? asked Chair Daniels. Commissioner Murphree echoed his request. There will be, stated Commissioner Murphree.

The commission took no vote on the matter.

101 Tingey St. SE

NRP Group (www.nrpgroup.com)and the Marshall Heights Community Development Organization (MHCDO, www.mhcdo.org) are building an apartment building at 101 Tingey St. SE, behind the US Dept. of Transportation. The 12-story structure will include 127 units and 2,600 square feet of ground floor retail. It is a 100 percent affordable project at 80 percent AMI.

NRP and MHCDO have applied to the DC Zoning Commission (DCZC) to modify the 2003 Planned Unit Development (PUD), rezoning the parcel as MU-9, which permits high-density, mixed-use development. In addition, the developers are requesting relief from requirements for residential parking, onsite loading and side yard size. The development does not contain any parking and or onsite loading.

Chair Daniels reported on the Zoning Commission (ZC) hearing on the project. The DC Dept. of Transportation (DDOT) and developer have worked out a more workable curbside

dedicated loading zone, he reported. Another zoning hearing has been scheduled in August.

After lauding the project’s commitment to affordable workforce housing, the commission unanimously voted to support it.

Other Matters

Lieutenant Kenneth Taylor briefed the commission on public safety. Year to date, there have been three homicides, all remain open, compared to five last year. The number of assaults with a dangerous weapons, 11, is equivalent to the previous year. MPD is paying special attention to retail thefts, but it is an “uphill battle,” Taylor said.

Lawyers from Holland and Knight briefed commissioners on plans to apply for a two-year extension for development of 1100 South Capitol St. SE. While the project is a matter of right, Zoning Commission was required to approve its design due to its location in the South Capitol Overlay. The site is currently composed of NATs parking lots. The commission unanimously voted to support the extension.

The commission will not meet in August. ANC 8F’ s next meeting is scheduled for Sept. 17 at DDOT headquarters, 250 M St. SE, at 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.anc8f.org. u

Good Times Community Festival at THEARC

On Sunday, Aug. 25, 2 to 6 p.m., join THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE, for their annual Good Times Community Festival with free food, games, activities and supply- lled backpacks for students. WPGC 99.5 and SJ EZ Street will be supplying the jams. buildingbridgesdc.org.

East of the River Fall Festival

On Saturday, Aug. 17, 2 to 6 p.m., Whitman-Walker hosts a free Back-to-School Backpack Drive and Block Party and they are inviting all their SE DC neighbors. This event features live entertainment by Culture Queen, Go-Go music by Sirius Company, free food and drink and giveaways and backpacks with supplies for the rst 500 kids. The party will take place rain or shine at the pavilion of Sycamore & Oak, 1110 Oak Dr. SE, on the St. Elizabeths East Campus, next to the Entertainment and Sports Arena. whitman-walker.org.

Improvements to Anacostia Park Roads Parking Lots

The National Park Service has begun pavement preservation work including crack sealing, pavement patching, and pavement markings on some roads and parking lots in Anacostia Park through the end of August. Areas that will be addressed are Anacostia Drive SE, the Pirate Ship Playground parking lot, Anacostia Recreation Center parking lot, and parking lots around the US Park Police Anacostia Operations Facility. Most of the pavement work will happen at night; however, visitors should expect intermittent lane and parking lot closures and detours through the end of August.

Douglas Street Pedestrian Bridge Opens

On July 25, Mayor Bowser was joined by community members to celebrate the grand opening of the Douglas Street Pedestrian Bridge in Ward 7, a signi cant infrastructure project designed to enhance pedestrian safety and connectivity

Insect and Pond Walks at Kenilworth Park

Every week on Sundays, Aug. 11 to Sept. 8, 10 a.m., for one hour, join insect expert Jenny and Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens on a guided insect tour of the park. Learn more about the insects that call the gardens home. Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is at 1900 Anacostia Ave. SE. nps.gov/keaq.

DCHFA,

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 int 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

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

Aug. 24, 2021.

Washington Mystics at Entertainment and Sports Arena

The Washington Mystics are DC’s premier professional women’s basketball team. Here’s the August/September lineup: Minnesota Lynx vs. Mystics, Aug. 17, 2 p.m.; Seattle Storm vs. Mystics, 7 p.m.; Los Angeles Sparks vs. Mystics, Aug. 23, 7:30 p.m.; Connecticut Sun vs. Mystics, Aug. 31, 3 p.m.; Minnesota Lynx vs. Mystics, Sept. 6, 3 p.m.; Atlanta Dream vs. Mystics, Sept. 15, 3 p.m.; New York Liberty vs. Mystics, Sept. 17, 7 p.m.; and Indiana Fever vs. Mystics, Sept. 19, 7 p.m. Tickets start at $33. The Entertainment and Sports Arena is at 11 Oak Dr. SE. eventsdc.com/venue/entertainment-and-sports-arena.

Washington Nationals 2025 Schedule

The Washington Nationals, in conjunction with Major League Baseball, have announced their 2025 schedule. Washington will open the 2025 season at home against the division rival Philadelphia Phillies on Thursday, March 27—the earliest start to the season in Nationals history. The threegame series against Philadelphia marks the rst time the Nationals have hosted the Phillies on Opening Day since April 5, 2010. For the Washington Nationals complete 2025 schedule, visit, mlb.com/nationals/schedule/2025-03.

in the community. The new bridge improves access to mass transit and other neighborhoods for residents in Mayfair, Parkside, Eastland Gardens, and the surrounding communities of the Deanwood Metro Station. It is expected to serve thousands of residents and visitors annually. The new bridge has enhanced LED lighting for better visibility, wider access ramps that meet the American with Disabilities Act requirements, and improvements to the existing storm sewer system and stormwater management facilities. The new pedestrian bridge, which spans over DC I-295, was built with nearly $14 million in federal funding.

Market Masterminds: Winning The Day

Join the Anacostia Arts Center on Thursday, Sept. 12, 6 to 8 p.m., to learn strategies and tips for dominating your market and achieving success. Market Masterminds is at the Anacostia Arts Center, 1231 Marion Barry Ave. SE. anacostiaartscenter.com.

Zip & Paint at the ACM

On Saturday, Aug. 17, noon to 2 p.m., transform ordinary jeans and jean jackets into unique, personalized pieces of art. This free class will teach you various techniques for painting on denim, in-

cluding fabric paint application, color blending, and design transfer as you make a unique piece of wearable art. Painting supplies, stencils, etc. will be provided. Participants should bring their own jeans or jean jackets, patches, or any other fabric design items they would like to apply. Zip & Paint is at the Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacostia.si.edu.

Family Arts & Crafts at the ACM

On Saturday, Aug. 24, noon to 2 p.m., bring the family to the museum for a free arts and crafts workshop inspired by their current exhibition: A Bold and Beautiful Vision: A Century of Black Arts Education in Washington, D.C., 1900-2000. Materials and supplies are provided for a variety of make and take crafts. The workshop facilitator Tamara Thomas is a sculptor, doll and craft artist, and designer. Family Arts & Crafts is at the Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacostia.si.edu.

Anacostia River Trail Monthly Clean Up

Monthly on the second Tuesday through Oct. 8, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., join a monthly clean-up event along the beautiful Anacostia River Trail. Meet at 350 Anacostia Ave. NE to help keep the trails clean

Washington Mystics vs. LA Sparks,

and pristine. This is a great opportunity to give back to the community and enjoy the outdoors. Don’t forget to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and bring a reusable water bottle. nps.gov/anac.

2024 AfterDark @THEARC

On Saturday, Sept. 7, 6 to 11 p.m. (6:30 p.m., cocktail reception; 8 p.m., dinner), celebrate Building Bridges’ 19 years of improving the quality of life for children and adults who reside east of the Anacostia River. Funds raised at this year’s gala ensure the future of the 11th Street Bridge Park, Washington, DC’s rst elevated public park. Built on a foundation of equity, community and sustainability, and perched above the Anacostia River, this seven-acre Park will stitch together long-divided neighborhoods and serves as a national model for inclusive economic development. The attire is garden party chic. buildingbridgesdc.org.

Potomac Conservancy Cleanup at Fort Dupont Park

On Saturday, Aug. 24, 9 to 11 a.m., join Potomac Conservancy for a trash cleanup at Fort Dupont Park. Wear sturdy close-toe shoes and bring a water bottle. It is also recommended to wear a hat, sunglasses, and to wear pants. Meet on Minnesota Ave. SE. Contact Becky George at Rebecca_ George@nps.gov with questions. Apply at nps.gov/fodu.

Public Voting for Mayor’s Arts Awards

This year’s Mayor’s Arts Awards features 15 distinct categories including new honors such as the “Award for Excellence in Philanthropy” and the “Award for

Excellence in Go-Go Music.”

Nominations and awardees, except for the “Award for Distinguished Honor,” are chosen by DC residents. Public voting will take place from Monday, Aug. 26 through Friday, Sept. 6. Winners will be announced at the 39th Annual Mayor’s Arts Awards ceremony on Tuesday, Sept. 24. Venue TBD. Residents are invited to attend this free annual event. For updates and details, visit dcmayorsartsawards.com.

Weekly Financial Consultation with DISB

Need help filing a complaint about your insurance claim? Want to get a jump on your savings goals? The DC Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking is at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G St. NW, on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to help you with your nancial services issues and empower you in your nances. The location will alternate between MLK Library’s rst and second oor. dclibrary.org.

Inaugural Capital Hockey Classic at Capital One Arena

Monumental Sports & Entertainment has announced that the inaugural Capital Hockey Classic—a college hockey double header at Capital One Arena—will debut this winter. Taking place on Thursday, Dec. 12, the rst game of the event will feature a contest between Army and Navy’s club hockey teams, followed by a matchup between Army and Penn State’s Division I program. Game times, ticketing information, and additional details about the Capital Hockey Classic will be available in the coming months at capitalonearena.com.

The DC Bike Ride

On Saturday, Sept. 7, starting at 8 a.m., enjoy DC on car-free streets while enjoying countless photo ops by iconic historical landmarks, live music, snack and refreshment breaks, and joyful surprises along the way. Cross the nish line and enjoy an epic festival by the US Capitol Building. DC Bike Ride invites you to the city’s only car-free and social bike ride, designed for riders of all ages—from three, plus--and from all ability levels. Whether you own a bike or not, all are welcome to join in the fun. The Finish Festival with live entertainment, fun activities and food trucks is between the Capitol and the Mall. Event proceeds bene t community partners working towards safer streets for all and growing our bicycle community. Passes are $189 to free; with rates increasing closer to the ride. dcbikeride.com.

Park Care Day at Anacostia Park

On Saturday, Aug. 17, 10 a.m. to noon, join the Friends Corps Grounds Crew and help care for Anacostia Park. Activities include invasive species removal (training provided), trash cleanup, and other projects needed to help keep the park a safe and welcoming place for all. Supplies are provided. The meeting point is the skating pavilion. Sign up at friendsofanacostiapark.org.

Volunteer at the H Street Festival

Held on Sept. 21, the H Street Festival is located between Third and 15th streets NE. Responsible adults are necessary to be the eyes and ears of the festival. As a volunteer, you are pledging a commitment to be a part of the action and excitement. Currently, opportunities are restricted to individuals above the age of 18. Check this website and keep an eye on social media as youth community service hours may become available. hstreetfestival.org/volunteer.

Advisory Neighborhood Commission 7D

“Uniting Communities East and West”

Representing the Capitol Hill/Hill East, Eastland Gardens, Kenilworth, Kingman Park, Mayfair, Parkside, River Terrace and Rosedale neighborhoods and the RFK Stadium Complex.

Join us for our Next Virtual Public Meeting Tuesday, September 10, 2024 - 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm

How to participate:

By computer: https://dc-gov.zoom.us/j/9162864

7160?pwd=NVdldTZiRitFODdSUVJZQVBGdHk5UT09

Passcode: anc7d Or by phone: 1-301-715-8592 Webinar ID: 91628647160 Passcode: 776540

YOUR 2023-2024 COMMISSIONERS ELECTED TO SERVE YOU

Who Where How to Contact Me

Wendell Felder Parkside – 7D03 7d03@anc.dc.gov

Chairperson

Brian Alcorn Capitol Hill/Hill East – 7D08 7d08@anc.dc.gov

Vice Chair

Brett Astmann Rosedale – 7D07 7d07@anc.dc.gov

Treasurer

Ashley Schapitl Hill East – 7D09 7d09@anc.dc.gov

Secretary

Siraaj Hasan Eastland Gardens/ 7d01@anc.dc.gov Kenilworth – 7D01

Mike Davis River Terrace – 7D04 7d04@anc.dc.gov

Ebony Payne Kingman Park – 7D05 7d05@anc.dc.gov

Marc Friend Rosedale – 7D06 7d06@anc.dc.gov

Brianne Hill East – 7D10 7d10@anc.dc.gov

Eby-Stockert

Vacancy in Single Member District 7D02

DO YOU LIVE IN THE MAYFAIR COMMUNITY? We are looking for a Commissioner to serve for 2024!

Volunteer Opportunities!

We invite volunteers to join our five Commission committees, which include: Community Outreach/Grants, Economic Development/ Housing Justice, Environment, Public Safety, and Transportation/Public Space. Join us in working to improve and support your community. Contact any 7D Commissioner or our office account at 7d@anc.dc.gov for more information.

PARK(ing) Day 2024 Applications Open

DC PARK(ing) Day returns on Friday, Sept. 20, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Initially started in San Francisco in 2005, PARK(ing) Day is an event in which residents, businesses, and community organizations re-think the use of public space by converting metered onstreet parking spaces into temporary parks. Since its inception, the event has spread to cities around the world. The application window is open until Aug. 23. If you’re interested in participating, familiarize yourself with all event requirements before designing your pop-up park or beginning the permitting process. Reach out to Kimberly Vacca at kimberly.vacca@dc.gov for any questions about the event. publicspace-activation.ddot.dc.gov/pages/parking-day.

DPR’s

Historic Investment in Recreation

DPR’s #RecforALL is an investment of $17 million that will fund a new agencywide action plan to expand recreational o erings and provide all District residents, particularly young people, with more safe, high-quality events, programs, and opportunities for spontaneous play. The goal of #RecforALL is to expand access to their most sought-after programs, services, and facilities, level the playing eld by eliminating barriers to traditionally cost prohibitive programs and leverage the latest in recreational trends that open new doors for District youth. Read more at recforall.com.

AARP Annual Community Health, Wellness and Resource Fair, Sept 25

The Southwest Waterfront AARP’s An-

nual Community Health, Wellness and Resource Fair is on Wednesday, Sept. 25, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at River Park Mutual Homes’ Charles Goodman Common Room, 1311 Delaware Ave. SW. The Fair provides: George Washington University hearing screenings, medical professionals, legal counsel for the elderly with resources and services, Department of Insurance, securities and banking resources and services, and public service Information. It is open to the entire DC senior community, their families, friends, and neighbors. Ostreet parking is available. The Waterfront Metro on the Green Line is two blocks away. Bus 74 stops in front of the River Park Delaware Avenue Gate. A box lunch will be provided. For further information contact Betty Jean Tolbert Jones, bettyjeantolbertjones@yahoo.com or 202-554-0901.

Mount Vernon’s George Washington Patriot Run

Cross the nish line on Sunday, Sept. 8 with George Washington’s mansion in view. The run features a 10-miler which starts at 7:15 a.m. and a 5k which starts at 7:30 a.m.

The racecourse includes both lanes of a ve-mile stretch of the George Washington Parkway from the GW Parkway Circle to W. Boulevard Drive. The Finish Festival offers music, food and beverage concessions, and a free beer for each runner. Ten miler is $72 through Aug. 18; 5k is $50 through Aug. 18. mountvernon.org.

Virtual ESL Conversation Circles

On Mondays and Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to noon, virtual ESL online sessions are o ered by the DC Public Library’s Adult Learning Department and are designed for non-native speakers of English, ages 18 and older, with low intermediate to high-level English skills. To receive the link to join virtually email adultlearning. dcpl@dc.gov. You will also need an internet connection and a device to connect to the internet (smartphone, laptop, desktop, or tablet computer) with the Zoom web/ video conferencing platform installed. For more information about resources and programs for English Language Learners call 202-727-1616 or visit the Adult Learning Department on the second oor of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G St. NW. dclibrary.org.

Committee of 100 Accepting Vision Awards Nominations

Since its founding in 1923, The Committee of 100 on the Federal City has cham-

pioned excellence, responsibility, and activism in public policy, design, education, and land use planning that protects Washington, DC’s unique physical character and sense of place. The Committee’s vision of a beautiful and livable city for all recognizes that the District of Columbia is both our Nation’s Capital as well as home to almost 700,000 residents. Beginning in 2002, the Committee inaugurated Vision Awards to recognize excellence by others in achieving the Committee’s vision. To date, over 100 awards have been given to recognize excellence in such areas as: planning, historic preservation, transportation, housing, parks and recreation, zoning, and environmental protection. Nominations are due Aug. 19. For the nomination form with instructions, go to committeeof100. netvision-awards-2024.

Do You have a notice for EOR Bulletin Board?

The EOR Bulletin Board includes event notices, volunteer opportunities and other community news. Send to bulletinboard@hillrag.com. ◆

east washington life

On Track to Succeed

Ballou’s 3DE Entrepreneurship Curriculum Builds a New Generation of Business Leaders

by Anita Foster Washington and Matthew McClure

Last year while scrolling through her social media feed, Anita Foster Washington stumbled upon a post from her alma mater, Ballou Senior High School, where students were given the opportunity to showcase ideas for business models to friends, family, and their communities at a Market Day. What really caught her attention was the unique 3DE (Re-engineering Education) curriculum which introduces students to entrepreneurship. As someone working to facilitate private capital’s ability to empower positive social outcomes, she immediately wondered if there was an opportunity to support this important program.

What It Is

The 3DE curriculum launched when the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) developed a school improvement strategy by engaging the communities in and around Ballou and Anacostia Senior High School. Through organizing listening sessions and conducting surveys, the key trends that emerged were a need for work-based learning experiences and entrepreneurship coursework. So, in partnership with The New Teacher Project (TNTP) and with private funding from the DC Public Education Fund, DCPS established a school transformation strategy called Redesign. This strategy is aimed at refreshing the DCPS curriculum to not only enhance the student experience but also prepare students for the complex demands of the workplace. With the financial support of DCPS and partners, Ballou enlisted Atlanta-based nonprofit Junior Achievement to implement their 3DE curriculum by involving the business community in the creation of an experiential learning environment.

How It Works

As early as 9th grade, students engage in case methodology and project-based learning where they can apply what they have learned from corporate case studies to their own entrepreneurial interests. The pressure is on when they must present their business ideas to a panel of judges that includes local entrepreneurs and business leaders–in the style of a Shark Tank pitch–and the most promising ventures then receive seed funding. To help participants streamline their presentations, Foster Washington sat in on a student

pitch in January this year along with Jerome Nichols of Standard Real Estate Investment and was blown away by the level of detailed research being done to understand projected costs and funding requirements. The success of the curriculum speaks for itself: Ballou and its sponsors have awarded student businesses over $5,000 in gift cards since hosting their first competition in 2023 and students have used these resources to create products for sale at Market Day (see our 2024 Market Day report below). Over two years, student businesses have generated nearly $25,000 in sales— a testament to active participation and Ballou’s commitment to delivering relevant learning experiences.

Why It’s Important

Foster Washington knows that the benefits of the 3DE curriculum extend beyond just receiving a grade. It’s a beacon of hope for Ward 8 where her parents owned and operated their own business in the Anacostia neighborhood for 20 years. She knows that Ward 8 is home to a vibrant small business community because it inspired her career and left

an undeniable impression on her. The 3DE curriculum (focused on real-world problem-solving and equipping students with essential skills like critical thinking, communication, and decision-making) has the power to bridge the gap between generations of business leaders and bring a wave of innovation, progress and much-needed hope and optimism for the future to communities east of the River.

Ballou High School Market Day 2024

A bright and sunny morning in early May heralded the Ballou Market Day and East of the River was on the scene to catch the action. Themed ”Hollywood,” students and visitors alike were given the red-carpet treatment. Bright and colorful balloons, an official Walk of Fame and glittering gold Oscar Awards statuettes adorned the school’s gymnasium where 29 Ballou student businesses had set out their products for sale.

High-energy music set the tone for the event at the school in the Congress Heights neighborhood of Southeast DC. Proud parents mingled with friends as everyone

Judges and Ms. Tesha Nixon Cunningham pose with the 2024 cohort of 3DE curriculum students at Ballou SHS.

moved from table to table, inspecting the wide range of fashion, cosmetics, accessories, art, and tasty treats for sale. James Hill (of Stand On Business Athletic Wear brand) was fully kitted out in his distinctive, breathable, lined athletic shorts and an SOB branded compression shirt. His inspiration? Bringing a ordable and accessible athletic wear to communities in his neighborhood and saving enough money to take SOB to the next level.

Nefertiti Dixon-Rush (or Nef, as her friends call her) and her brand Sang De’er stood out in her distinctive hot pink hoodie. Her mom stood by and listened while she spoke about her plans to build a website where she’ll market her clothing and take her message of cancer awareness to new audiences through her fashion. Laila Thomas’ table was full of deliciously scented, organic soap bars, lotions, and scrubs, sold under her brand April’s Kreations. All organic and perfect for a night of pampering, Thomas’ products bring the ancient tradition of healing plants, herbs, and minerals to a new, younger audi-

ence. Breanna Isreal’s Vaude Five Star Girl Jogger sets are all about accenting and accepting your own unique body shape, rather than conforming to someone else’s ideals. She says she plans to open a brickand-mortar store in Congress Heights very soon. If this is a taste of what Ward 8’s youth have in store for us, then the future of our city looks bright.

How You Can Help

As Ballou prepares for the new school year, it’s gearing up to introduce a fresh batch of students to the 3DE entrepreneurship curriculum. The success of this program depends on the community’s involvement and Ballou needs the help of local entrepreneurs to mentor, guide, and advise students. They also need funding for seed capital to get student businesses up and running. If you’re interested in getting involved, email Tesha Nixon Cunningham at Tesha.nixon@ k12.dc.gov. To learn more about the 3DE entrepreneurship curriculum, visit www.3deschools.org

Nefertiti Dixon-Rush

James Hill

Breanna Isreal

Laila Thomas

Meet Arthur Wharton Chorale Member, Educator and Author

By Anthony D. Diallo

Dr. Arthur L. Wharton III wryly remembers warming up his vocal apparatus before a five-hour rehearsal by repeating the “Do-Re-Mi” scales, with heavy emphasis on the second syllable, before his group—The Men of Color Chorale—held a recent summer concert at First Rock Baptist Church in Southeast.

Although the gig lasted approximately 90 minutes, Wharton, 66, who is known to be meticulous, understood the necessity for the extended rehearsal despite his concerns of becoming a bit fatigued prior to the commencement of the concert. First Rock Baptist Church in Southeast featured the performance at their site.

“We don’t have the opportunity to practice and get together like [in previous years and decades]. We are no longer teenagers,” said Wharton, 66. “We are

men now with families and responsibilities. I had to have a five-hour energy drink [to help me make it through],” Wharton confessed. “My preparation is mostly inward. When I sing a solo, which is not that often anymore, I need to go inside myself and meditate. I want to interpret the song well.”

The Men of Color Chorale

It all started in 1972 for the six-feet, two-inch Wharton as a lanky teenager when he attended the Howard Dilworth “H.D.” Woodson High School in Ward 7. That was the first year that he joined the chorus basically because, besides playing the occasional basketball game, Wharton was not involved in a regular organized activity.

“I remember thinking that I wasn’t doing much else. Why not join?”

Wharton has never regretted that decision as he became the bass member of the singing ensemble that toured both locally and internationally. The park service sponsored the male chorus to pay tribute to the Mary McCloud Bethune Memorial. In the summer of 1975, the H.D. Woodson Male Chorus toured Europe for a five-country tour, which contained multiple highlights, but was punctuated by a presentation at Buckingham Palace and a performance for Pope John Paul in Rome.

The Men of Color Chorale is mostly comprised of former members from H.D. Woodson, Duke Ellington, and the

Men of Color Chorale. Dr. Arthur Wharton is to the farthest left in the middle row. Photo Ginger Cornwell.

Washington Male Choir. According to Wharton, the chorale fluctuates from 35 to 40 fellows and was formed by lifelong friends with the objective of providing scholarships; preparing and performing music for male voices; promoting their music to be published, recorded, or reproduced; cultivating the love of music sung; and instructing and improving its associates’ medium of expression of skill and talent.

Chocolate City Native

“I thought it was great [being born in Washington, DC]. I didn’t have a lot to compare it with, but I was very proud to say I grew up in what was then called Chocolate City,” said Wharton. His mother Betty was both a teacher and guidance counselor while Arthur, his father, was a draftsperson who drew maps for and retired from the C.I.A.

The family lived in a four-bedroom, two-bath Cape Cod style house on Branch Avenue in Southeast within the Penn Branch/Hillcrest neighborhoods. Wharton still owns the house although he currently resides with his wife, Andria Wright, nearby in Ft. Dupont/Twining on O Street. They have been married for 21 years and Wharton became the supportive and loving stepfather to Wright’s son, Evan, from a previous marriage.

Becoming an Educator

Wharton initially received an undergraduate degree at Howard University in Mechanical Engineering in 1980 and worked as a Design Engineer with Westinghouse Electric Corporation. Nine years later, he acquired an MBA in Finance from George Washington University and later taught in the District of Columbia Public Schools. In 2009, Wharton earned his doctorate in Accounting from Morgan State University.

“He was always very focused as a young man growing up,” said real estate broker Nathaniel Arnold,

one of Wharton’s oldest and dearest friends. “We grew up together. We probably date back to 1969 in grade school. We played basketball together. He was very serious and studious in school. I think Arthur’s ability to maintain friendships is his greatest gift.”

Becoming an educator and helping young people reach their potential is Wharton’s daily preoccupation as an Associate Professor on the faculty of the Accounting and Finance Department of the Reginald F. Lewis College of Business at the Virginia State University.

“I absolutely love teaching and especially at an HBCU (Historically Black College or University). It is extra rewarding to use my gifts with my own people. I generally don’t see students until their sophomore year in accounting and [work with them] until they graduate. Graduation is the best day of the year for me,” said Wharton. He is also the author of Transform Your Mind and Change Your Life. The book is “a guide toward helping others live their dream life.”

Wharton takes his image as a role model and projecting professionalism earnestly.

“I try to inspire. The absolute best is when students come back and say, ‘you played a key role in my life.’ I hope that students can say that I made a positive difference, and that Dr. Wharton was a straight shooter! Just don’t give up. I see a lot of times in this generation that they’re reluctant to try. Don’t let the threat of failure stop you from trying. Don’t limit what you do or go after because it is not certain to be successful. If that were the case, I wouldn’t have gotten out of my 22 years in the wilderness as I describe in the book.” u

Changing Hands

Changing Hands is a list of residential sales in Capitol Hill and contiguous neighborhoods from the previous month. A feature of every issue, this list, based on the MRIS, is provided courtesy of Don Denton, Associate Broker at Coldwell Banker Realty on Capitol Hill. The list includes address, sales price and number of bedrooms.

XWORD

“Complete the Famous Sayings”

by Myles Mellor

Across:

1. Make-up artist?

5. Take to the soapbox

10. Good buy

15. Met showstopper

19. Contour

20. Untamed

21. Pasta

22. Dairy sounds

23. “Liberty, when it begins to take root, ....... “ George Washington

27. Divas have sensitive ones

28. Like Death Valley

29. Paper

30. Jamaican music

34. Went over, carefully

36. Cowboys on scoreboards

38. Ultimatum ender, often

39. Cautious offer

41. Pastor

46. Teen’s transportation, perhaps

49. Cube maker

51. Baby powder

52. Small bit used in dentistry

53. Newspaper page

54. Coffee shop freebie

61. Two-handed log cutter

65. Type of evidence

66. Lab vessel

68. Execute perfectly

69. Decline, with “out of”

72. “You will not be punished for your anger, you will _____ “ Buddha

79. Undermine

80. Canal with a mule, in song

81. Tart plum

82. Butter look-alike

83. Playground equipment

85. Action of making someone more dignified

90. Orchestral instrument

93. Brew

95. Determination

96. Kind of oil

100. Cordial cherry

106. Sporting skin art

107. Connected

109. On the safe side, at sea

110. C.E.O.’s degree 111. Turbulent, as water 112. Big name in drivers

114. Take paint off 118. Bread, in Brest

119. Someone who executes 121. “ A man is but the product of is thoughts - ........ “ Gandhi

130. Top-of-the-line

131. Poem by William Carlos Williams

132. Restrict

133. Denomination of a card

134. Decorous

135. Carved

136. Ways out

137. Last part

Down:

1. Oahu garland

2. Checks for under 21’s

3. Turk’s title of respect

4. Kind of theater

5. Adult

6. City near Lake Tahoe

7. Aesthetic fields

8. Central truth

9. Will Ferrell character

10. BBQ restaurant offering 11. Not so hot

12. Oklahoma city

13. Common conjunction

14. Drumstick

15. Biblical prophet

16. Seating sections

17. Crumb

18. Light-grey

24. Grazing locale

25. Very unusual

26. Remembrance

30. It’s a legal thing

31. Large deer

32. Group with troops

33. Comprehend

34. Miles ___ gallon

35. Antique

36. Not well lit

37. Shakespeare follower

39. Poker game withdrawal

40. Apiece

41. Wool

42. Display

43. Lead to solve a crime

44. Ethyl finish

45. Deeply blushing

47. Airport abbreviation

48. Abolish

50. Hole on a golf green

54. Fireplace ledges

55. Figure in a title search

56. Reindeer herder

57. Winter bug

58. “___ Maria”

59. Movable covers

60. Big lie

62. Ancient cross shape

63. Elton John’s title

64. Common menu term

67. Capital of Rhône

69. Give the glad eye to

70. Hammer type

71. Pinto’s pace

73. Once called, in wedding notices

74. Temper

75. Lisa to Bart

76. Warmed up

77. Hunger

78. Henri or Pierre

83. Badger’s homestead

84. Minute

86. Fictional monster

87. Small fastener

88. Garden ‘’fleur’’

89. And so forth

90. Calendar mo.

91. Feathered stole

92. Hall-of-Famer Mel

94. Shared a boundary with

97. Charisma

98. Hill in San Francisco

99. Mermaid’s home

100. “Cool” amount

101. Shania Twain’s “___ Man of Mine”

102. Mudder’s fodder

103. Laid up

104. New, prefix

105. Above, to Shelley

108. Grunt

111. Erect

112. Years of youth

113. Welder of sorts

114. Substitute

115. Namesake of Thursday

116. Punjabi princess

117. Thingy

118. “That was a close one!”

119. “Ghost” star

120. Death announcement

122. Old verb ending

123. Article printed daily

124. Pronoun

125. Cast a spell on

126. Mythical monster

127. Late Chinese leader

128. Call off

129. Cousin of calypso