Hill Rag Magazine March 2014 by Capital Community News

hillrag.com â&#x20AC;˘ March 2014

Est. 1981

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CAPITOL HILL

BRIGHTWOOD

PETWORTH

$248,500

1359 Underwood Street, NW

4201 4th Street, NW $749,900

Todd Bissey 202-841-7653 THE BISSEY TEAM

Pete Frias 202-744-8973 www.PeterFrias.com

Todd Bissey 202-841-7653 THE BISSEY TEAM

440 12th Street, NE #003

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CAPITOL HILL

410 E Street, SE New Renovation!

653 8th Street, NE #1 $430,000 3BR/2.5BA & GARAGE!

Genie Hutinet 202-413-7661

BRENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 118 E Street, SE Handsome 5BR/3.5BA boasts huge bedrooms & an A+ location.

Pete Frias 202-744-8973 www.PeterFrias.com

16th STREET HEIGHTS $639,500 w/Carriage House Todd Bissey 202-841-7653 THE BISSEY TEAM

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TRINIDAD

PETWORTH

1418 Orren Street, NE

$589,000

Pete Frias 202-744-8973 www.PeterFrias.com

4925 7th Street, NW $628,500 Fern Pannill 240-508-4856

CAPITOL HILL

LEDROIT PARK

249 Florida Ave., NW #23 $348,500 Todd Bissey 202-841-7653 THE BISSEY TEAM

CT TRA CON

LEDROIT PARK

DEANWOOD

$348,500

21 Rhode Island Ave, NW

Todd Bissey 202-841-7653 THE BISSEY TEAM

Pete Frias 202-744-8973 www.PeterFrias.com

4640 Blaine Street, NE $369,500

1020 Pennsylvania Ave, SE #405

Fern Pannill 240-508-4856

“WHERE WASHINGTON SHOPS FOR A NEW ADDRESS!”® 225 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20003

Tel: 202-544-3900 www.johncformant.com

Sales • Rentals • Commercial Leasing • Property Management • Investments

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Government

grants information

What: DC Government Economic Development Cluster’s “Building Bridges to Success” Information Seminar Description: At this seminar, DC Government staff will present information to current and future small business owners on the regulatory process of obtaining a business license, grant opportunities and gaining an in-depth knowledge of how to apply for the Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) program. • Licensing Process (DCRA) • Great Streets Small Business Capital Improvement Grants (DMPED) • Small Business Assistance and Façade Improvement (DHCD) • Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) Program (DSLBD) • Green Financial Incentive Grant Program (DDOE) When: Monday, March 17, 2014 beginning at 9:00 am through 12:00 pm What: How to Open a Business Through DCRA’s Regulatory Processes Description: At this training session, DCRA staff will walk you through everything you need to do to open a new business: • Benefits of incorporating or creating an LLC • Types of business licenses and how much they cost • How to apply for a business license • Zoning requirements for types of businesses • Obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy • What building permits are needed to do renovations • How to apply for a building permit When: Wednesday, March 12, 2014 beginning at 9:00 am through 12:00 pm

FOR MORE INFO PLEASE VISIT: HTTP://BIZDC.ECENTERDIRECT.COM OR CALL 202-442-4538 March 2014 H 9

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Prices have appreciated more than 20% in some parts of greater Capitol Hill in the last 2 years. We have buyers and no inventory. If you are thinking of selling, please call us to discuss options & opportunities.

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Meet My New Partner! Thomas Snow – Buyer’s Specialist 202.805.0879 Building Community by supporting our Schools & PTAs

12 Cindy Court

Severna Park, MD / Annapolis

Renovated 4BR, 3BA with 2-story addition. Space galore, wonderful light, award-winning schools, 6 miles to downtown Annapolis, walking distance to water

0 ,90 759 ct $ a r t on er C Und

203 15th Street NE

Total renovation of semi-detached home with 3BR, 2.5 Baths plus legal 1BR apt. High end finishes, fireplace, Walking distance to Lincoln Park, H St, Eastern Mkt & Metro

101 5th Street NE

Formerly the Bull Moose Bed & Breakfast. 11 BR, 8BA; the possibilities are endless.

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1916 Rosedale Street NE

Kingman Parkl / H Street Corridor

Restored & updated 3BR, 2BA Porch Front rowhouse w/ 1BR/1BA In-law Suite/Apartment. Short walk to H St, RFK & 2 blocks to new trolley

3211 Cheverly Hills Court Cheverly, MD

Newly Renovated, stone-facade split-level with 3BR, 3 BA, New everything! Open floor plan, large, fenced-in yard in wonderful community on Metro line & 10 minutes to downtown DC and Cap Hill.

0 ,00 675 ct $ a r t on er C Und

11027 Marcliff Road Rockville / North Bethesda

Short Sale. Just under 3,000 sf on 3 levels with 3/4 acre lot. Opportunity to build a new home or renovate existing. Convenient to 270, parks & retail. Good schools.

00 2,0 $46 ld o S t Jus

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475 K St NW, #612

1438 Meridian Pl NW, #4 Colombia Heights

1527 Constitution Ave., NE

NoMa / Chinatown

New Construction & luxury living at City Vista Condo. Highend finishes in this 1BR + Den. Taylors, Busboy & Poets, Safeway and more in your lobby. Hotel-like amenities. 2 blocks to Metro. Garage Parking.

Cheapest 2BR condo in DC; own for less than rent. Great investment. Walk to Columbia Heights Metro & Retail. Buyer’s Agent.

2BR, 1BA rowhouse full of character, nicely sized back yard, parking & 3 blocks to Lincoln Park. (pict missing)

“In addition to helping Buyers and Sellers on greater Capitol Hill & DC for over 14 years, we are committed to building community in Arlington, Alexandria & close-in MD.”

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What’s Inside?

Election Special 36

The District Beat

The Ward 6 Council Race

At-Large Council Race

Andrew Lightman Denise Romano

Capitol Streets 49

In every issue: 18

Andrew Lightman

The Bulletin Board The Numbers: A Budget Wish List

DC’s Dirty Little Secret: Toxins in the Anacostia River

What’s On Washington

22 Calendar 70 Hill Rag Crossword

Jenny Reed

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Denise Romano Denise Romano

ANC 6A Report

ANC 6B Report

Jonathan Neeley

ANC 6C Report

Charnice A. Milton

ANC 6D Report

Roberta Weiner

ANC 6E

mar.

160 Classified Ads 168 Last Word

Steve Holton

community life 71

E on DC: Poets, Pitchers & Catchers

Strictly Business: Cutting the Red Tape to Work from Home

E. Ethelbert Miller

Miriam Savad

Citizen Reporters Have the Write Stuff

Speak Out, Girlfreind!

@ Your Service

Ellen Boomer

South by West

Will Rich

H Street Life

Barracks Row

Denise Romano

Elise Bernard Sharon Bosworth

real estate 87

Capitol Hill Residential Market 2013

Changing Hands

Don Denton

home and garden SPECIAL 97

An Antique Table Inspires a Modern Kitchen Design

100

Bruce Wentworth, AIA

Getting the Help You Need With Your Garden

Cheryl Corson

In like a lion???

Fear not! Spring is just around the corner... Been hibernating? Get that house spruced up and on the market.Get to that OPEN HOUSE. Get out and DO IT. Your favorite Hill Realtors can help you!

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on the cover: Kathryn Freeman, Moon River, 2012. oil on linen. 48 x 48” On exhibit at the Jane Haslem Gallery – February 14 through March 31, 2014. 2025 Hillyer Place, NW. WDC, 20009 • www.janehaslemgallery.com

Meg & George

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Welcome Spring with Five Perennial Favorites David Bergendorf

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Repairing Winter Damage to Your Garden

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Closing The Coop on Chickens in DC

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DCSEU: Putting Your Home in A New Light

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Derek Thomas

Hayden Wetzel

Catherine Plume Wendy Blair

Garden Problem Lady

arts dining entertainment 123

Beauchert’s Saloon

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Spring Fasion for Your Pantry

Emily Clark

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Wine Guys

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At the Movies

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Art and The City

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The Literary Hill

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The Poetic Hill

Jonathan Bardzik

Felix Milner

- hundreds of homes bought - licensed in DC, MD and sold & VA - over 95% repeat and - proud to call referral business Capitol Hill home

UPCOMING EVENTS:

March 1: March 29: April 26: May 3: May 10 & 11:

River Park Sock Hop Brent Taste of the Hill Gala Two Rivers Framing the Future Gala SWS Auction Capitol Hill Restoration Society House/Garden Tour

ACTIVE LISTING:

Mike Canning Jim Magner

UNDER CONTRACT 7500 Woodmont Ave, Unit 807 Bethesda, MD 20814 • $675,000

Karen Lyon Karen Lyon

health and fitness 137

Lavender Retreat Wellness Club

Pattie Cinelli

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Not Your Mother’s Fitness Class

Meghan Markey

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Rabies in Our Backyard

Brittany Cartidge

Megan Shapiro (Cell) 202-329-4068 meg@megandgeorge.com

George Olson (Cell) 202-203-0339 george.olson@rmxtalk.com

(Office) 202-547-5600

kids and family 145

Kids & Family Notebook

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School Notes

Kathleen Donner

Susan Braun Johnson

www.megandgeorge.com Look Us Up on Facebook!

Allegiance

The Norris Group

F A G O N

MIDCITY

GUIDE TO CAPITOL HILL

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Capital Community News, Inc. • 224 7th Street, SE, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20003 202.543.8300 • www.capitalcommunitynews.com EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Melissa Ashabranner • melissaashabranner@hillrag.com Publisher: Jean-Keith Fagon • fagon@hillrag.com Copyright © 2014 by Capital Community News. All Rights Reserved.

• • •

Interior & Exterior Custom Painting Restoration & Historical Preservation Residential & Commercial

202.965.1600 www.jfmeyer.com Free Estimates • Insured • References

LOOK FOR YOUR NEXT HILLRAG ISSUE ON: April 5th

Editorial Staﬀ

BEAUTY, Health & Fitness

Managing Editor: Andrew Lightman • andrew@hillrag.com CFO & Associate Editor: Maria Carolina Lopez • carolina@hillrag.com School Notes Editor: Susan Braun Johnson • schools@hillrag.com Kids & Family Editor: Kathleen Donner • kathleendonner@gmail.com Food Editor: Annette Nielsen • annette@hillrag.com

Patricia Cinelli • fitmiss44@aol.com Jazelle Hunt • jazelle.hunt@gmail.com Candace Y.A. Montague • writeoncm@gmail.com

KIDS & FAMILY

Arts, Dining & Entertainment

Kathleen Donner • kathleendonner@gmail.com Susan Johnson • schools@hillrag.com

Art: Dining:

Society & Events

Jim Magner • jjmagner@aol.com Emily Clark • clapol47@gmail.com Celeste McCall • celeste@us.net Jonathan Bardzik • jonathan.bardzik@gmail.com Literature: Karen Lyon • klyon@folger.edu Movies: Mike Canning • mjcanning@verizon.net Music: Jean-Keith Fagon • fagon@hillrag.com Stephen Monroe • samonroe2004@yahoo.com Retail Therapy: Marissa Terrell • mterrell@sbclawgroup.com Theater: Barbara Wells • barchardwells@aol.com The Wine Guys: Jon Genderson • jon@cellar.com

Calendar & Bulletin Board Calendar Editor: Kathleen Donner • calendar@hillrag.com, bulletinboard@hillrag.com

General Assignment Martin Austermuhle • martin.austermuhle@gmail.com Maggy Baccinelli • mbaccinelli@gmail.com Elise Bernard • elise.bernard@gmail.com Ellen Boomer • emboomer@gmail.com Elena Burger • elena96b@gmail.com Stephanie Deutsch • scd@his.com Michelle Phipps-Evans • invisiblecolours@yahoo.com Maggie Hall • whitby@aol.com Mark Johnson • mark@hillrag.com Dave Kletzkin • Dave@hillrag.com Stephen Lilienthal - stephen_lilienthal@yahoo.com Pleasant Mann • pmann1995@gmail.com Meghan Markey • meghanmarkey@gmail.com Charnice Milton • charnicem@hotmail.com John H. Muller • jmuller.washingtonsyndicate@gmail.com Jonathan Neeley • neeley87@gmail.com Will Rich • will.janks@gmail.com Heather Schoell • schoell@verizon.net Virginia Avniel Spatz • virginia@hillrag.com Michael G. Stevens • michael@capitolriverfront.org Peter J. Waldron • peter@hillrag.com Roberta Weiner • rweiner_us@yahoo.com Jazzy Wright • wright.jazzy@gmail.com

Mickey Thompson • socialsightings@aol.com

Homes & Gardens Derek Thomas • derek@thomaslandscapes.com Catherine Plume • caplume@yahoo.com

COMMENTARY Ethelbert Miller • emiller698@aol.com The Nose • thenose@hillrag.com The Last Word • editorial@hilllrag.com

Production/Graphic/Web Design Art Director: Jason Yen • jay@hillrag.com Graphic Designer: Lee Kyungmin • lee@hillrag.com Web Master: Andrew Lightman • andrew@hillrag.com

Advertising & Sales Account Executive:

Kira Means, 202.543.8300 X16 • kira@hillrag.com Account Executive: Jennifer Zatkowski, 202.543.8300 X20 • Jenn@hillrag.com Account Executive: Dave Kletzkin, 202.543.8300 X22 • Dave@hillrag.com Classified Advertising: Maria Carolina Lopez, 202.543.8300 X12 • Carolina@hillrag.com BILLING: Sara Walder, 202.400.3511 • sara@hillrag.com

Distribution Manager: Distributors: Information:

Andrew Lightman MediaPoint, LLC distribution@hillrag.com

Deadlines & Contacts Advertising: sales@hillrag.com Display Ads: 15th of each month Classified Ads: 10th of each month Editorial: 15th of each month; editorial@hilllrag.com Bulletin Board & Calendar: 15th of each month; calendar@hillrag.com, bulletinboard@hillrag.com

We welcome suggestions for stories. Send queries to andrew@hillrag.com. We are also interested in your views on community issues which are published in the Last Word. Please limit your comments to 250 words. Letters may be edited for space. Please include your name, address and phone number. Send Last Word submissions to lastword@hillrag.com. For employment opportunities email jobs@hillrag.com. 16 H Hillrag.com

Senart’s

Oyster & Chop House

Come Visit Executive Chef Brendan Tharp And Sample His New Spring Menu

Mondays: $10 Prime Chop House Burger Tuesdays: Half-Priced Bottles of Wine

Daily Raw Bar Happy Hour! $1 Select Oyster

4 to 7PM, Monday-Friday / 3 to 7PM, Saturday-Sunday

Dinner served nightly at 4pm, Brunch is served on Saturdays & Sundays. Senart’s Oyster & Chop House 520 8th St. SE • (202) 544-1168 • www.SenartsDC.com March 2014 H 17

see our website for more events! www.whatsonwashington.com

Corcoran Uncorked

Photo: Kate Warren

After a brief hiatus, Corcoran Uncorked is back! Join them on the third Wednesday of every month, 5-9 p.m., for a new and different kind of Corcoran experience. Each month brings with it a different themed evening and will include creative art making activities, playful and enlightening gallery talks, tours and games, lively music and a cash bar. The theme for Corcoran Uncorked on March 18 is “I Love Spring Break.” Admission is $12, and pre-registration is recommended. Otherwise it’s first come, first served. Corcoran Gallery of Art, 500 17th St. NW. 202639-1700. corcoran.org/corcoran-uncorked

Soar into spring at the annual Blossom Kite Festival on the grounds of the Washington Monument. Photo: Nick Eckert

Blossom Kite Festival on the Washington Monument Grounds On Saturday, Mar. 29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., spring is literally in the air. The fourth annual Blossom Kite Festival presented by the National Cherry Blossom Festival showcases the creativity of kite makers and skill of kite fliers from across the US and other countries through a variety of competitions and demonstrations including the popular Hot Tricks Showdown and the Rokkaku Battle. Bring your own kites or children can make a kite at an activity station (while supplies last) to fly on the Public Field. The Blossom Kite Festival includes five areas to enjoy: the Competition & Demonstration Field, Family Field, Kite Club Display Area, Activity Tents, and Public Field. Participation is free.

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The celestial hues of the Crab Nebula, a supernova remnant in the constellation of Taurus, captured in Hidden Universe. Photo: NASA, ESA, J. Hester and A. Loll (Arizona State University)

“Hidden Universe 3D” IMAX at Air and Space An extraordinary journey into deep space, Hidden Universe 3D brings to life the farthest reaches of our universe with unprecedented clarity through real images captured by the world’s most powerful telescopes. Stunning, high-resolution 3D images of space allow you to peer deep inside the earliest galaxies and nebulae, watch stars being born in vivid clouds of gas and dust, tour the surface terrain of Mars, and witness images of distant celestial structures including awe-inspiring views of the Sun. Seen for the first time in IMAX 3D, these dramatic new images offer fresh insight into the origins and evolution of the universe. National Air and Space Museum on the Mall. airandspace.si.edu

Photo: Courtesy of the Washington Nationals

Play Ball It may be cold and rainy but for DC fans, the Nat’s season begins with a spring training game (schedule magnet for first 20,000 fans) on Mar. 29, 2:05 p.m. vs. the Tigers. Opening Day (Opening Day cap for first 30,000 fans) is on Apr. 4, 1:05 p.m. vs. the Braves. Capital Community News covers the season through September in the Calendar and Kids and Family Notebook. There you’ll find t-shirt, cap and tote giveaways, $1 hot dogs, “Pups in the Park” games, autograph opportunities (Signature Sundays), chances for kids to run the bases and more. Tickets are on sale now at the box office and at washington.nationals.mlb.com. Tickets start at $5 for same-day grandstand seats ($15 for marquee games).

Last year’s crowd. Photo: Courtesy of Timonium Beer, Bourbon and BBQ Festival

Timonium Beer, Bourbon and BBQ Festival The Timonium Beer, Bourbon and BBQ (all indoors) Festival is on Friday night, Mar. 21, 6-10 p.m. and Saturday, Mar. 22, 2-6 p.m. at the Cow Palace on the Timonium Fairgrounds. It features 60 beers, 40 bourbons, lots of barbeque, eating contests and live entertainment. Here’s how the organizers describe it. “Join us at the festival for a great day of beer sippin’, bourbon tastin’, music listenin’, cigar smokin’, and barbeque eatin’. Your admission buys you a sampling glass so you can enjoy an all-you-can-taste sampling of beer and bourbon. Some of the best barbeque vendors are on-site if you get hungry all while enjoying seminars in the tasting theater and live music all day.” Tickets range from $25 (designated driver) to $89 for VIP access both days. Timonium is about 60 miles north. Take BW Parkway, go around the Baltimore beltway heading northwest in the direction of Randallstown and then watch for signs. beerandbourbon.com/maryland

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Don’t miss the fireworks on April 5. Photo: Courtesy of the National Cherry Blossom Festival

Southwest Waterfront Fireworks Festival.

Apr 5, 1:00-9:00 PM (Fireworks start at 8:30 PM, rain or shine). The Southwest Waterfront community is the perfect place to enjoy more than eight celebratory hours of free music, family friendly water-related activities, cultural experiences, live entertainment and foods at multiple outdoor venues. Southwest Waterfront, 600-900 Water St. SW. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org

MARCH CALENDAR SAINT PATRICK’S CELEBRATIONS Old Town Alexandria Saint Patrick’s Day Parade. Mar 1, 10:00 AM. saintpatricksdayparade.com/alexandria_va. 703237-2199. ballyshaners.org St Patrick’s Day 8K. Mar 9, 9:00 AM, Freedom Plaza. This event offers a great downtown course, a deep awards structure, team competition, a 1K Kids Run, Irish dancing, refreshments, random prizes, and much more. Bring the family for a day of fun and help support Special Olympics DC, Habitat for Humanity & Back on My Feet. $40. 301-871-0400. runwashington.com Gaithersburg Saint Patrick’s Day Parade. Mar 15, 10:00 AMnoon. Washingtonian Center. The parade starts at the Corner Bakery and ends at Kohls. Christ Church St Patrick’s Dinner and Auction. Mar 15, 5:30 PM. This much-anticipated neighborhood event is their biggest fun and fund raiser each year. For more than 40 years they have celebrated St. Patrick’s with a feast of corned beef and cabbage. $25 at the door. Children under 14 are free. Christ Church, 620 G St. SE. 202-547-9300. washingtonparish.org DC St Patricks Day Parade. Mar 16, noon, Constitution Ave. between Seventh St. and 17th St. NW. The colorful three-hour procession of floats, marching bands, and drill teams will also feature antique bicycles, cars, fire trucks, and Irish wolfhounds. Grandstand seats are $15. 202-670-0317. dcstpatsparade.com The Chieftains at George Mason University’s Center for the Arts. Mar 16, 4:00 PM. This is a spirited St. Patrick’s Day celebration that captures the

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profound beauty of the Emerald Isle. For more than fifty years, these six-time Grammy Award winners have uncovered centuries of Irish song and made these traditional works their own through the inimitable style that has won them countless fans throughout the decades and their iconic sound has become synonymous with the revival of traditional Irish music. Center for the Arts at Mason, 4400 University Drive, MS 2F5, Fairfax, VA. cfa.gmu.edu St Patrick’s Day Concert at National Geographic. Mar 17, 7:00 PM. Enjoy a lively St. Patrick’s Day celebration with a group that is fast gaining a following for their refreshing approach to traditional and contemporary Celtic material. Based in the Philadelphia area, Runa recently released their third album, Somewhere Along the Road, and won Best Song in the traditional music category of the 2012 Independent Music Awards. $30, up. National Geographic, 1600 M St. NW. 202-857-7700. nationalgeographic.com Dubliner. Mar 17, 10:00 AM-3:00 AM. Three bands on two stages and giveaways. Full menus served with $10 cover. The Dubliner also features live Irish music every night at 9 p.m.; Sundays at 7 p.m. 4 “F” St. NW. 202-737-3773. dublinerdc.com Kelly’s Irish Times. Mar 17, 10:30 AM-3:00 AM. Live Irish music all day. 14 F St. NW. 202-543-5433. kellysirishtimesdc.com Molly Malone’s. Mar 17, 11:00 AM-2:00 AM. Discounted Irish whiskey and beer. Drink and food specials. 713 Eighth St. SE. 202-547-1222. mollymalonescapitolhillsaloon.com

SPECIAL EVENTS Atlas INTERSECTIONS Festival. Through Mar 8. The unique all-arts INTERSECTIONS festival returns for its fifth season

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bringing together more than 100 performing groups over twelve days. The festival presents intersections of music, theatre, dance, film and spoken word that offer new ways to see ourselves and to celebrate our community and our world. All five Atlas performance spaces will be alive with world premieres and innovative collaborations among artists of all ages, races, cultures and art forms. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. 202-399-7993. atlasarts.org TAPAS-Spanish Design for Food. Through Mar 23. TAPASSpanish Design for Food features more than 200 objects and instruments, videos, photographs, and installations to explore the interaction between design and gastronomy, two creative disciplines enjoying a boom in Spain and currently achieving international acclaim. The free exhibition, in the former residence of the Ambassadors of Spain at 2801 16th St. NW, and will be on view Wednesday-Friday, 2-6 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. The Dalai Lama at the Washington National Cathedral. Mar 7, 9:30 AM. Through a talk entitled, “Beyond Religion: Ethics for the Whole World,” the Dalai Lama will share his vision of a path to leading an ethical, happy and spiritual life, and offer a road map to building a more compassionate and peaceful world. Washington National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Ave. NW. cathedral.org National Cherry Blossom Festival. Mar 20-Apr 13. Kite Festival, Mar 29; waterfront fireworks, Apr 5; parade and Japanese street festival, Apr 12. .nationalcherryblossomfestival.org Volunteer at the Cherry Blossom Festival. By volunteering for the National Cherry Blossom Festival, its events largely

free and open to the public, you support an important event in and for our community. You’ll also have the opportunity to make new friends and have fun. Join us in welcoming the many visitors and residents to the Festival! Go to nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/get-involved. Shakespeare’s Birthday Lecture 2014: Brian Cummings Shakespeare, Biography, and Anti–Biography. Apr 3, 7:30 PM. The biography of Shakespeare is a paradox. He is at once a figure of cultural saturation and an indefinable enigma. University of York Professor Brian Cummings discusses the problem of writing the life of Shakespeare in terms of the documentary history and its haunting sense of missing links. Free. Folger Shakespeare Library, E. Capitol St. SE. 202-544-7077. folger.edu Shakespeare’s Birthday Open House at the Folger. Apr 6, noon-4:00 PM. Come celebrate Will’s birthday with jugglers and jesters, music, song, dance, and more. Take your chance to perform your favorite lines of Shakespeare on the Folger stage, and enjoy tours and treasure hunts of the Folger’s reading rooms. Try your hand at crafty Elizabethan activities to take home. Plus, birthday cake for all, cut by Queen Elizabeth I! Free. Folger Shakespeare Library, E. Capitol St. SE. 202-544-7077. folger.edu

MUSIC Music at INTERSECTIONS Festival at the Atlas. Mar 1. 12:30 PM, Positive Vibrations Youth Steel Orchestra Expressions of Youth: New Music for Steel Band; 4:00 PM, Mark Sylvester and Natalie Spehar, New Duets; 7:00 PM, All Points West, DarkCity. Mar 2. 4:00 PM, Not What You

Think, We Who Believe in Freedom Cannot Rest; 5:30 PM, UrbanArias, Opera Like You’ve Never Seen It. Mar 7. 5:30, DC Youth Orchestra Percussion Ensemble, Strength and Sensitivity; 10:00 PM, Eme and Heteru Afro Roots: 70’s African Music Revolution. Mar 8. 4:00 PM, Alif Laila Sitar, Colors & World Percussion; 7:00 PM, Nistha Raj & Behzad Habibzai No Hay, Yahan; 8:00 PM, No BS! Brass, An Evening with No BS! Brass. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. 202-399-7993. intersectionsdc.org Music at Ebenezers. Mar 6, Luke James Shaffer, Chris Milam, Daryl Shawn, Aaron Tinjum; Mar 7, The 9 Songwriter Series; Mar 8, Stories and Songwriters; Mar 13, Micah and Amanda Lee; Mar 14, Lauren Fulbright, Blind Man Leading, Carolyn Crysdale; Mar 15, Chuck Schaeffer--Live in the Coffeehouse; Mar 20, Copperlily & Robby Hecht; Mar 28, Justin McRoberts; Mar 29, Mary Scholz--Live in the Coffeehouse; Apr 3, Jason Brown Full Band; Apr 4, Closet Runway. Ebenezers Coffeehouse, 201 F St. NE. 202-558-6900. ebenezerscoffeehouse.com Music at the Corner Store. Mar 7, Megan McCormick; Mar 14, Joe Craven; Mar 22, Stephen Simmons; Mar 28, Tattletale Saints & 10 String Symphony; Mar 30, Heather Maloney; Apr 4, Dance Party! Gina DeSimone & the Moaners. Corner Store, 900 So. Carolina Ave. SE. 202-544-5807. cornerstorearts.org Jimmy Gaudreau and Moondi Klein: Bluegrass Concert at Hill Center. Mar 16, 7:00 PM. Bluegrass icons Jimmy Gaudreau and Moondi Klein have had illustrious careers individually and now have come together as a duo to launch their third CD on Rebel Records. This high energy, toe-tapping

National ShamrockFest ‘14. Mar 22, 3:00-9:00 PM at RFK Stadium grounds. Event features nine musical stages, tented party areas, beer stations, bar-game areas and athletic competitions, craft, food and beverage markets and strolling entertainers and more. shamrockfest.com

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Capital Futbol Club Spring Academy Instruction by professional licensed soccer coaches on Capitol Hill

U7/u8 Boys & Girls

Will teach the basic techniques needed to succeed in soccer. • Emphasis on skill development • March - June

• 2 x per week + 4-6 games • Tuition: $275

U11 Girls

Will prepare players for tryouts that will occur in May 2014 for a Fall travel team (rising U12) • Emphasis on ball control and footwork • March & April

• 7 sessions of 1.5 hours • Tuition: $110

For More Info and to Sign Up:

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show will show these two are having more fun than ever before. $20. Purchase tickets online at hillcenterdc.org. Hill Center is at 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. Washington Women in Jazz Festival: Harpist Brandee Younger. Mar 18, 7:30 PM. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org New York, New York: An American Cabaret at the Atlas. Mar 20-23. A cast of 85 singers and dancers,accompanied by our hot,live Atlas band.will transport you to that magical place..New York,New York… it’s a helluva town! Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. 202-399-7993. intersectionsdc.org Rivers of Delight--Capitol Hill Chorale. Mar 22-23. The Chorale explores the American shape note tradition from Northern and Southern Harmony. America’s earliest form of community singing, this is a living tradition that continues through today. Capitol Hill Presbyterian Church, 201 4th St. SE. capitolhillchorale.org Le Jardin Chinois: Music of 18th–Century France. Mar 21-23. Folger Consort explores the allure of China for the 18th-century French musical imagination in the works of Rameau, Marais, and others. With soprano, violinist, harpsichordist, erhu, and traverse flute. $37. Folger Shakespeare Library, E. Capitol St. SE. 202-544-7077. folger.edu Foghorn Stringband at Hill Center. Mar. 24, 7:30 PM. Foghorn Stringband is the shining gold standard for American stringband music, with seven albums, thousands of shows, over a decade of touring under their belts, and two entirely new generations of old-time musicians following their lead. They play the old way, the way you’d have heard stringbands play on Southern radio stations back in the 1930s. $20. Purchase tickets online at hillcenterdc.org. Hill Center is at 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. District Sounds Concert Series: Kris Funn at Hill Center. Mar 28, 7:00 PM. Kris Funn began playing trumpet at the age of four and took up the double bass at the age of 14. At age 23, he began touring with Grammy Award-winning alto saxophonist Kenny Garrett. Since then he has performed at every major jazz festival in the world performing with artists including Nicholas Payton, Pharoah Sanders, and Bruce Williams, among others. He currently tours with the Christian Scott Quintet. $15. Purchase tickets online at hillcenterdc.org. Hill Center is at 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. HR 57 Weekly Jam Sessions. Wednesdays and Thursdays, 8:00 PM-midnight. Since 1993 HR-57 has provided a place where aspiring musicians gather to learn the history and cultures of the genres of jazz and blues. It’s a venue for the exchange of ideas and information between aspiring and professional musicians, students, aficionados and the general public. $8. 1007 H St. NE. 202-253-0044. hr57.org Church of the Epiphany Weekly Concerts. Every Tuesday, 12:10 PM. Free but free will offering taken. 1317 G ST. NW. 202-347-2635. epiphanydc.org

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Jazz Night (and fish fry) in Southwest. Fridays, 6:00-9:00 PM. Every Friday night. Expect a large, fun and friendly crowd. Westminster Presbyterian Church, 400 I St. SW (Fourth and I, south side of intersection). The cover is $5. Children are welcome and free under 16 years old. 202-4847700. westminsterdc.org/jazz Blue Monday Blues. Mondays, 6:00-9:00 PM. Westminster Presbyterian Church. Local musicians perform, and the Southwest Catering Company provides a fish fry from 5:308:30 PM. $5/general; free/children under 16. Modestly priced food. 400 I St. SW. 202-484-7700. westminsterdc. org/blues Sunday Gospel Brunch Featuring the Harlem Gospel Choir. Every Sunday, 12:30-2:00 PM. $30-$45. The Howard Theatre, 620 T St. NW. 202-803-2899. thehowardtheatre.com

THEATER AND FILM Mother Courage and Her Children at Arena. Through Mar 9. Kathleen Turner returns stars as a tough-as-nails matriarch who profits off the very war that steals her children from her one by one. But will the cost of war be higher than she’s prepared to pay? Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SW. 202488-3300. arena-stage.org We Are Proud to Present at Woolly. Through Mar 9. A rehearsal room descends from collaborative to absurd as a group of idealistic actors-three black and three white-come together to tell the little-known story of a centuries-old conflict in South West Africa. Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, 641 D St. NW. 202-393-3939. woollymammoth.net Richard III at the Folger. Extended through Mar 16. Weighing how history is written, Robert Richmond returns to direct another of Shakespeare’s celebrated stories of the English throne. With the skeletal remains of the long-vilified king being discovered earlier this year, beneath a parking lot of all places, this staging features Drew Cortese as the Machiavellian king. Folger Shakespeare Library, E. Capitol St. SE. 202-544-7077. folger.edu The Importance of Being Earnest at Shakespeare. Extended through Mar 16. Oscar Wilde’s most perfect of plays is a comedy of class, courtship, and avoiding burdensome social conventions. Lansburgh Theatre, 450 7th St. NW. 202547-1122. shakespearetheatre.org Tribes at Studio. Extended through Mar 16. Billy, a deaf man whose hearing family has never listened to him, comes to define his identity on his own terms in this sophisticated drama about family, belonging, and the limitations of language. Studio Theatre, 1501 14th St. NW. 202-3323300. studiotheatre.org Taffety Punk Theater & Shanghai Low Theatricals present “Diamond Dogs” at CHAW. Mar 3, 7:00 PM. The Taffety Punk Generator teams up with Chicago-based Shanghai Low Theatricals to present a new script based on the scifi novel by Alastair Reynolds: Diamond Dogs. Like Taffety Punk, members of Shanghai Low are unafraid in the face of

directorial challenges...in fact, they delight in them. The company dares to produce that which is unproduceable. Be among the first to hear Diamond Dogs to know what we mean. CHAW, 545 7th St. SE. 202-547-6839. chaw.org Water by the Spoonful at Studio. Mar 5-Apr 13. In North Philly, ex-Marine Elliot works at Subway, cares for his dying mom, and leans on his cousin Yaz as he tries to acclimate to civilian life. Online, four addicts cling to their chat room support group, struggling for another day sober. These lives collide as events small and large threaten their fragile stabilities, in this eloquent and haunting play about resilience, second chances, and families of both blood and choice. Studio Theatre, 1501 14th St. NW. 202-332-3300. studiotheatre.org Normal at the DC Arts Center. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Mar 6-30, 7:30 PM. 2438 18th St. NW. 202-462-7833. dcartscenter.org St. Mark’s Players--An Inspector Calls. Mar 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 21 and 22. An Inspector Calls written by, English dramatist, J.B. Priestely is a classic drama, which takes place on a single night in 1912, focusing on the prosperous middle--class Birling family, who live in a comfortable home in Brumley, England. The family is visited by a man calling himself Inspector Goole, who questions the family about the suicide of a young working--class woman, Eva Smith. Join us for an evening of suspense and see how this drawing room mystery unfolds. $15-$20. Performances are at the Lutheran Church of the Reformation, 212 E. Capitol St. NE. stmarksplayers.org Hill Flicks/Documentary Fridays: Parrot Confidential Film Screening. Mar 7, 7:00 PM. Meet Lou. Abandoned in a foreclosed home, Lou is one of thousands of parrots in need of rescue. From Costa Rica to suburban America, a lovable, quirky cast of parrots reveals their unforgettable tales and the bittersweet world they share with humans. Free. Register online or call 202-549-4172. Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org Taffety Punk Theater Company “Strolling Player” at CHAW. Mar 10, 7:30 PM. Strolling Player is a kaleidoscope of vivid personal memories from a long vibrant career and hectic personal life, with speeches from Shakespeare, Webster, Shaw, Wilde and more commenting on the action. Cast list includes filmstars, knights of the United Kingdom, an American president and a number of ex-wives. Strolling Player provides a unique personal journey through the magic of story-telling, drama and theatre. CHAW, 545 7th St. SE. 202-547-6839. chaw.org Medora: ITVS Film Screening at Hill Center. Mar. 11, 7:00 PM. Medora follows the down-but-not-out Medora Hornets varsity basketball team over the course of the 2011 season, capturing the players’ stories both on and off the court. The Hornets were riding a brutal losing streak when we arrived, and the team’s struggle to compete bears eerie resonances with the town’s fight for survival. Free. Register online at hillcenterdc.org or call 202-549-4172. Hill Center

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at the Old Naval Hospital, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at Ford’s. Mar 14-May 17. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee follows six awkward adolescents through their daunting and hilarious championship quest. As they navigate the tournament’s pressures, the eccentric coterie finds a new sense of belonging. Along the way, they learn that there is more to life than winning a trophy. Ford’s Theatre, 511 10th Street NW. 202-347-4833. fordstheatre.org PLACAS: The Most Dangerous Tattoo at Gala. Mar 14 and 15. Fausto, a Salvadoran immigrant and former gang member, is paroled from prison after he removes his gang tattoos-a cleansing of the skin in a hopeful effort to reunite his family and break a lifetime of violence, war, forced migrations and street crime. And so begins the journey of healing between Fausto and Edgar, his teenage son who is now vulnerable to the appeal of gang life. GALA Theatre, 3333 14th St. NW. 202-234-7174. galatheatre.org Hair at the Keegan. Mar 15-Apr 12. The granddaddy of all rock musicals, Hair is at once both a joyous celebration of youth and a poignant journey through a tumultuous 1960s America. Keegan Theater, 1742 Church St. NW. 703-892-0202. keegantheatre.com The Admission at Theater J. Mar 20-Apr 6. An Israeli homage to All My Sons set in Haifa during the first Intifada. Giora is a young professor engaged to Neta but in love with Samia, the Palestinian daughter of a family friend who becomes troubled when Giora’s father’s company begins building on the site of a battle that took place 40 years ago. Giora struggles to find the truth about his father’s war-time secrets, confronting the causes of his brother’s death and how Giora came to incur his own war-time injuries in Lebanon. As Giora’s family presses him to look forward, not back, the play asks how we can move forward toward peace while still wrestling with the ghosts of war. Theater J, 1529 16th St. NW. 800 494-8497. washingtondcjcc.org Documentary Fridays: Battle for the Elephants at Hill Center. Mar 21, 7:30 PM. Battle for the Elephants explores the brutal slaughter of African elephants for their tusks, fueled largely by China’s demand for ivory. Free. Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-5494172. hillcenterdc.org

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Camp David at Arena. Mar 21-May 4. sixtytwo miles north of Washington, DC, nestled in Catoctin Mountain Park, lies the clandestine retreat known as Camp David. For thirteen tumultuous days, President Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalynn host Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin and Egyptian President Anwar Sadat in an attempt to create the impossible: Peace in the Middle East. Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SW. 202488-3300. arena-stage.org Henry IV, Part 1 at Shakespeare. Mar 25June 7. A young prince must decide between tavern roughhousing and the burden of his father’s legacy, in the coming-of-age story of heroism, corruption and war. STC Artistic Director Michael Kahn directs the masterful Stacy Keach (King Lear, Macbeth) who plays Shakespeare’s beloved character, Falstaff. Shakespeare Theatre Company, Sidney Harman Hall, 610 F St. NW. 202-547-1122. shakespearetheatre.org One Destiny at Ford’s. Mar 25-May 17. Learn about Lincoln’s assassination from two men who were there. Actor Harry Hawk and Ford’s Theatre co-owner Harry Ford revisit the events of April 14, 1865. As they reconstruct the sequence of events, they grapple with the question: Could John Wilkes Booth have been stopped? Ford’s Theatre, 511 10th Street NW. 202-347-4833. fordstheatre.org

SPORTS, DANCE AND FITNESS

Dance at INTERSECTIONS Festival at the Atlas. Mar 1. 1:00 PM, Dance Performance Group, It’s Us!; 1:30 PM, Dance Dimensions, Reﬂections; 7:00 PM, B-FLY ENTERTAINMENT, The Nayika Project; 9:30 PM, Dissonance Dance Theatre, Watch Me Bounce. Mar 2. 2:00 PM, Xuejuan Dance Ensemble, TwoWay Mirror; 2:00 PM, Jane Franklin Dance & Percussionist Tom Teasley, Blue Moon / Red River. Mar 7. 7:00 PM, Bowen McCauley Dance, From the Ground Up. Mar 8, 1:00 PM, Gin Dance Company, An Afternoon with Gin; 1:30 PM. Metropolitan School of the Arts, Anybody Can Get It; 4:30 PM, Furia Flamenca Dance Company, Recordando la Alhambra. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. 202-399-7993. intersectionsdc.org Washington Capitals Ice Hockey. Mar 2, 8, 10, 14, 16, 25, 29; Apr 1. Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. 202-628-3200. capitals.nhl.com DC Rollergirls. Mar 2 and 9, 4:00 PM. (Doors open at 3:00 p.m.) Tickets are $12 for ages

12 and up, $6 for children 6-11, and free for kids 5 and under. Tickets are available in advance at ticketmaster.com or at the door on bout day. Individuals with a valid military ID can purchase tickets for $10 at the door. Temple Hills Skating Center, 3132 Branch Ave., Temple Hills, MD. dcrollergirls.com Washington Wizards Basketball. Mar 3, 5, 12, 15, 26, 28, 29; Apr 2 and 5. Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. 202-397-SEAT. nba. com/wizards DC United at RFK. Mar 6, 7:00 PM vs. Columbus (season home opener); Mar 29, 4:00 PM vs. Chicago; Apr 5, 7:00 PM vs. New England. RFK Stadium. dcunited.com Georgetown 10 Miler. Mar 8 and 9 (two runs). Starts at the Georgetown, Capital Cresent Trail. 240-472-9201. dcrunningclub.com Canal Park Ice Rink. Open through midMarch (weather permitting), MondayFriday, noon-9:00 PM; Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:00 PM; Sunday 10:00 AM-7:00 PM. Adult fee is $8; children, seniors (55+) and military fees are $7. Skate rental is $3. On Tuesdays, two can skate for the price of one from 4:00-6:00 PM. The park is at Second and M sts. SE, one block from the Navy Yard Metro (New Jersey Avenue exit). canalparkdc.org

COUNCIL ELECTION FORUMS Hear the Two Candidates Speak! Charles Allen

Darrel Thompson

In Southwest

In Shaw

Westminster Presbyterian Church Tuesday, March 4th 7 to 9 p.m.

Watha T. Daniel/Shaw Library Tuesday, March 11th 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Andrew Lightman, Managing Editor of Capital Community News, will moderate. Questions will be gathered from sponsoring organizations as well as on cards from the audience. These Forums are sponsored by The Hill Rag, MidCity DC, The Ward 6 Democrats, The Hill Center, Westminster Presbyterian Church, ANC 6E, The Near SE/SW CBBC, The Capitol Hill Restoration Society, Navy Yard Neighborhood Association, The Southwest Neighborhood Assembly and Empower DC.

Ice Skating at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden. Open through mid-Mar (weather permitting). Monday-Thursday, 10:00 AM-9:00 PM; Friday-Saturday, 10:00 AM-11:00 PM; Sunday, 11:00 AM-9:00 PM. $7 for adults, $6 for children 12 and under, students with ID and seniors 50 and over. Skate rental is $3. Seventh St. and Constitution Ave. NW. 202-289-3361. nga.gov/ ginfo/skating Public Skate at Fort Dupont Ice Arena. Fridays, noon-1:50 PM and Saturdays 11:45 AM-12:45 PM. Children (12 and under) and seniors are $4, adults (13 and older) are $5. Skate rental is $3. For more information, call 202-584-5007. Fort Dupont Ice Arena, 3779 Ely Pl. NE. fdia.org Washington Harbour Ice Skating. Open through mid-Mar (weather permitting). Monday-Thursday, noon-9:00 PM; Friday, noon-10:00 PM; Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:00 PM; Sunday, 10:00 AM-7:00 PM. At 11,800 square feet, the new Washington Harbour Ice Rink is DC’s largest outdoor ice skating venue, and is also larger than New York City’s

Learn Portuguese on the Hill!

Fun and highly effective small group classes

UPCOMING EVENTS :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: BRAZILIAN COOKING– with Chef Najara Werneck at the Hill Center Brazilian Finger Foods– March 8: 11 AM to 1 PM Amazon Luncheon for the World Cup– March 15: 11 AM to 1 PM Brasil for Kids– Fruit and Vegetables in Fun and Healthy Snacks: DURING SPRING BREAK!– April 14th–18th: 4 PM to 5 PM

Registration for classes is open! Brazilian Language and Culture

Contact Valeria Buffo • (202) 546-5229 brasilonthehill@gmail.com • www.brasilonthehill.com March 2014 H 29

Rockefeller Center rink. Adults, $10; children/ seniors/military, $8. Skate rental is $5. 3050 K St. NW. thewashingtonharbour.com Pentagon Row Outdoor Ice Skating. Open through mid-Mar, 10:00 AM-11:00 PM. $7$8. $3 for skate rental. 1201 South Joyce St. Arlington, VA. 703-418-6666. pentagonrowskating.com Tidal Basin 3K Monthly Run. Third Wednesday of each month at noon. This run is free and informal. West Potomac Park (meet on Ohio Dr. at West Basin Dr., near the Tourmobile stand). 703-505-3567. dcroadrunners.org Rock N Roll Marathon Registration Open. Marathon is Mar 15. runrocknroll.competitor.com Rock N Roll Mini Marathon (new in 2014). Mar 15. Feel all of the excitement in just 3.1 miles. Participate in the Mini Marathon, which will be an officially timed 5k. runrocknroll.competitor.com Spring 5K. Mar 16, 8:00 AM. Starts at Hains Point, 927 Ohio Dr SW (East Potomac Park). 703-486-1466. racepacket.com Scope It Out 5K Run/Walk for Colon Cancer Awareness. Mar 23, 9:00 AM. Freedom Plaza. 1-855-610-1733. scopeitout5k.com The Runway 5K & 5 Miler-Where Fashion Meets Fitness. Mar 29, 8:00 AM. Hains Point East Potomac Park. 240-472-9201. dcrunningclub.com

Saturday, March 8th 6:30pm International Spy Museum 800 F Street, NW Please join BASIS families and friends in celebrating BASIS teachers and a world-class education. All proceeds support the BASIS DC Annual Teacher Fund. Ticket Price: $80

questions volunteer donate contact: basisstarsgala@gmail.com www.facebook.com/BASISStarsGala

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Spring Training Game -Nats vs Tigers. Mar 29, 2:05 PM, at Nationals Park. (Home Opener, Apr 4, vs Braves) washington.nationals.mlb.com Race4Respect. Mar 30, 9:00 AM. Pennsylvania Ave on Freedom Plaza. crowdrise.com/ raceforrespect Woodrow Wilson Bridge Half Marathon. Oct 5. Registration now open. 703-5874321. wilsonbridgehalf.com Marine Corps Marathon Registration. Register online at marinemarathon.com. Marathon is Sunday, Oct 26.

MARKETS RFK Stadium Farmers’ Market. Open Saturdays, year-round (weather permitting), 8:00 AM-3:00 PM. The market also has merchandise vendors. It can be seen in the RFK parking lot from the interestion of Benning Rd. and Oklahoma Ave. NE.

Branch Avenue Pawn Parking Lot Flea Market. Saturdays. Set up (depending on the weather) after 10:00 AM. 3128 Branch Ave., Temple Hills, MD Fresh Tuesdays at Eastern Market. Every Tuesday, 3:00-7:00 PM. Tuesday afternoon farmers’ line of fresh produce. Eastern Market, 200 block of Seventh St. SE. 202-6985253. easternmarket-dc.com Union Market. Tuesday-Friday, 11:00 AM8:00 PM; Saturday-Sunday, 8:00 AM-8:00 PM. Union Market is an artisanal, curated, year-round food market featuring over 40 local vendors. 1309 Fifth St. NE. 301-6527400. unionmarketdc.com Eastern Market. Daily except Mondays and important holidays. Weekdays, 7:00 AM-7:00 PM; Saturdays, 7:00 AM-5:00 PM; Sundays, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. Flea market and arts and crafts market open Saturdays and Sundays, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM. Eastern Market is Washington’s last continually operated “old world” market. On weekends the market area comes alive with farmers bringing in fresh produce, craft and flower vendors, artists, a flea market and street musicians. 200 block of Seventh St. SE. 202-698-5253. easternmarket-dc.com Anacostia Big Chair Flea Market. Saturdays, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM. The market features a diverse mix of art, crafts, imports, antiques, collectibles and furniture every Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The market will also feature local specialty food items such as fruits and vegetables, flowers, preserves, prepared foods and beverages. 2215 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE. bigchairmarket.com Dupont Circle Farmers Market. Sundays year round (rain or shine), 9:00 AM-1:00 PM. The Wall Street Journal and The Financial Times of London named the market one of the top farmers’ markets in the country. 20th St. and Mass. Ave. NW, 1500 block of 20th St. NW (between Mass. Ave. and Q St. in the adjacent parking lot of PNC Bank). 202-362-8889. freshfarmmarket.org Georgetown Flea Market. Sundays year around (except in the case of very inclement weather), 8:00 AM- 4:00 PM. 1819 35th St. NW. 202-775-3532. or georgetownfleamarket.com

CIVIC LIFE Navy Yard Neighorhood Association Meet & Greet March 12th 6:30-8:30 PM – Location

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Rotary Club of Capitol Hill Washington, DC District 7620 New meeting location starting March 4th. The Dubliner Restaurant and Pub 4 F Street, N.W., Washington, DC Join us in “Service Above Self,” Tuesdays, 7:30 – 8:30 AM www.meetup.com/Rotary-Club-of-Capitol-Hill 32 H Hillrag.com

TBD. For updates, email: NavyYardNA@ gmail.com or see https://www.facebook. com/NavyYardNA orTwitter: @NavyYardNA State of the District Address. Mar 3, 7:00 PM. Mayor Vincent C. Gray will deliver the 2014 State of the District Address, where he will outline his agenda and priorities for the coming year. The address will be given at Ward 7’s Kelly Miller Middle School, 301 49th St. NE. Friends of Southwest DC Annual Meeting. Mar 20, 4:00 PM. Hear about their 2013 accomplishments and learn how you can support Southwest. St. Augustine’s Church, 600 M St. SW. PR 20-601 “Sense of the Council for a Hearing on the CSX Virginia Avenue Tunnel Project Resolution of 2013”. Mar 25, 11:00 AM. Those who wish to testify are asked to telephone the Committee of the Whole, at 202-724-8126, or e-mail Crispus Gordon, III, Legislative Assistant, at cgordon@dccouncil.us and provide their name, address, telephone number, and organizational affiliation, if any, by the close of business Friday, Mar 21. Hearing Room 412, John A. Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Grosso Near You (informal) Meeting. First Thursday, 8:00-9:30 AM, Pound the Hill, 621 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. The meetings will provide the opportunity for constituents to bring ideas and issues directly to Councilmember Grosso as part of an effort to make the DC Council more accessible. ANC 6A. Second Thursday, 7:00 PM. Meeting at Miner Elementary School, 601 15th St. NE. 202-423-8868. anc6a.org ANC 6B. Second Tuesday, 7:00 PM. Meeting at Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-543-3344. anc6b.org ANC 6C. Second Wednesday, 7:00 PM. Meeting at Heritage Foundation, 214 Mass. Ave. NE, first floor conference room. 202547-7168. anc6c.org ANC 6D. Second Monday, 7:00 PM. Meeting at 1100 4th St. SW, DCRA meeting room, 2nd floor. 202-554-1795. anc6d.org ANC 6E. First Tuesday, 6:30 PM. Meeting at NW One Library, 155 L St. NW. anc6e. org u

St. Vincent

Paul catholic church South Capitol and M Streets, SE

Sunday 8 am and 6:30 pm | M-F 12:10 pm www.stvincentdepauldc.org Closest Church to Nationals Park. Noon NATS MASS coming soon! StVincentDePaul

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H LLRAG ELECTION SPECIAL 2014

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ELECT ON SPECIAL

The District Beat

A City in Crisis?

ranes dot the District’s skyline, Mayor Vincent C. Gray is fond of pointing out. Their number is a visual barometer of the city’s desirability and success, he argues – a claim bolstered by the monthly growth in the city’s population, declining unemployment, flourishing restaurants, and pedestrian traffic jams created by large number of strollers on the sidewalks. Bullet-ridden corpses on the street, the sight of a mayor in handcuffs, the demands of a congressionally imposed Control Board are distant memories. Let the good times roll! At every whistle-stop Gray touts lower unemployment, increased development, stable finances, high bond ratings, rising student test scores, and successful school reform. “I have a record I am very proud

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by Andrew Lightman

of,” he declares. In the mayoral campaign’s debates his claims are echoed by opponents Jack Evans (D-Ward 2) and Vincent B. Orange (D-At Large), who together form his Greek chorus, disputing only the credit for the city’s renaissance. The city’s success, Evans and Orange argue, should be laid at the door of popular former Mayor Anthony A. Williams. Wrapping themselves in his mantle, they claim to be essential members of the merry band of councilmembers who assisted the city’s climb out of bankruptcy and laid the foundations for its current growth. Evans, the Al Gore of DC politics, takes credit for everything from the Verizon Center and Nationals Stadium to the P Street Whole Foods. Orange, for his part, touts his involvement in the Home Depot/ Giant on Rhode Island Avenue NE and the modernization of McKinley Technology Education Campus. The only thing left to fight over is the surplus. Evans supports the mayor’s decision to stash it in the city’s rainy day accounts. Orange, accusing the mayor of “hording our money at the expense of citizens,” departs from his brethren, arguing they are too focused on pleasing Wall Street. And

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businessman Andy Shallal agrees: “We are saving too much.”

A City in Crisis? In contrast to the mayor and his two backup singers, Councilmember Tommy Wells (D-Ward 6), Councilmember Muriel Bowser (D-Ward 4), and Shallal all argue the city is in crisis: • The corrupt mayor cheated to get elected. • Homeless children are housed in rec centers. • The city can’t count its ambulances. • Residents are dying of heart attacks in front of firehouses. • The Offi ce of Tax and Revenue is selling residents’ tax liens to shysters. • The achievement gap between black and white students is widening under school reform. These charges are hurled at Gray at every debate. “Why do we have a surplus when we have that much need?” asks Bowser rhetorically. “We need to be concerned not just about our bond rating on Wall Street but about our human rating on Main Street,” chimes in Wells. “We have a surplus in our budget and a deficit in our vision. Cranes are pushing aside people,” charges Shallal.

Ethics Ethics is the leading edge of the troika’s attack on Gray. They have plenty of material to draw from, with three former councilmembers convicted, a host of 2010 Gray campaign aides entering guilty pleas, revelations of payoffs to a minor candidate, and an illegal shadow campaign financed by a city contractor. Gray, for his part, aside from a general apology in his kickoff speech, has largely stayed mum on the subject of 2010’s campaign shenanigans, citing legal advice. Both Wells and Bowser have called for his resignation over the matter. Wells takes his critique of Gray a step further. He questions the mayor’s decision to settle a contract dispute with DC Charted Health, owned by the alleged funder of the shadow cam-

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paign. This decision, claims Wells, resulted in a $40 million loss to the city. Wells, who voted for the settlement, claims to have been duped. Bowser keeps her criticism of the mayor more general. The public has lost confidence in their government, she states. Moreover, the federal investigation into the 2010 campaign has created a major distraction. New leadership would allow the city to put the scandals of 2010 behind it. She urges voters to help her drive out the incumbent. Bowser also touts the ethics legislation that she steered through the council. She points to the ethics actions taken against Orange and Marion Barry by the Board of Ethics and Government Accountability. “The message has been sent across the government that there is a sheriff in town,” declares Bowser. Wells, who is known for tilting at legislative windmills on the dais, faults his colleagues explicitly for not adopting stronger standards such as the banning of corporate contributions. Permitting donations from limited liability corporations, whose ownership is often opaque, allows an individual to sidestep the cap placed on the donations of individual citizens, giving them outsized influence. Wells himself has refused to accept any corporate donations. Wells along with Evans also supports ending the council’s role in contract approvals. In addition he believes that donations from city lobbyists and contractors should be banned. He concurs with Orange that councilmembers should forgo outside employment.

Homelessness and the Less Fortunate With DC General’s shelter at capacity and the city stashing needy families in Maryland hotels and rec centers, homelessness has emerged as a major campaign issue. The blame rests squarely on the mayor’s shoulders, Wells believes. DC General was at capacity in the fall, and the administration did not plan for additional capacity during hypothermia season. “We just don’t have to give up,” Wells states. It costs $54,000 per year to house a family at DC General, states Shallal.

Wells, Shallal, and Bowser argue for a return to the Housing First policies of the Fenty administration. The idea is to rapidly rehouse families first and then provide wraparound services to stabilize them. Wells touts his work in shepherding this initiative through council and faults the mayor for abandoning it. The three critics argue for spending money on the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, which subsidizes families to prevent them from losing their residences in the first place. They also want increased funding for the Housing Production Trust Fund. “We have to step up and pay for it,” states Bowser. “Use the Trust Fund. We need to act now,” echoes Wells. Affordable housing is also central to the critique of Gray’s stadium deal. It must be a central element of any project involving city land, argue Bowser, Wells, and Shallal. Bowser also questions the methods the administration is using to value the Reeves Center, saying they should be market-based. Shallal complains, “We have turned the city into a pawnshop. We need to make sure we get our money’s worth for public property.” He would like the Reeves Center turned into an uptown Torpedo Factory. Gray defends his homeless policy vigorously. He points to significant recent increases in funding for the Trust Fund. He faults the council for not providing him with greater flexibility in interpreting the city’s right-to-housing law.

Tax Lien Sales and the Elderly Bowser, Orange, and Wells among others support legislation designed to end abuses resulting from the sale of residential tax liens. Bowser, however, also believes that elderly residents of the city need to be better protected against rises in property taxes. Under current law, the elderly are exempted from half the taxes assessed on their properties. Bowser supports legislation proposed by Anita Bonds (D-At Large) that would completely exempt long-term residents with household incomes under $60,000 from taxes. Bowser says the income limit is too low.

Gray and Wells prefer to increase the standard deduction, which they argue will put money in the pockets of a larger number of less-well-off residents including renters. Wells also wants to create a District-owned transportation system that is more affordable than WMATA to help reduce the costs of living in the city for the less fortunate.

School Reform Bowser, Wells, and Shallal attack Gray’s stewardship of school reform. They cite the 62-point achievement gap between black and white student test scores, which had narrowed during Fenty’s tenure then widened and has been constant since 2011. The councilmembers’ policy fixes are specific, while Shallal questions the whole enterprise. DC’s middle schools are the problemchildren of school reform, according to Bowser. Her model is Ward 3’s hugely successful Alice Deal. Funding such institutions is her number-one fiscal priority. In addition she wants to make sure that public charter and traditional public schools complement one another. “Every family in DC should have a great local elementary school,” declares Wells. Ward 6’s schools have been so successful that the ward is adding traditional public schools, unlike its neighbors. The key, says Wells, is to empower principals to take an entrepreneurial approach to education, giving parents what they request. “I’ve done it in Ward 6 and I can do it citywide.” Shallal attacks the entire school reform enterprise. To begin with he promises to end the closing of public schools and to limit the growth of charters. He questions the current test-oriented evaluation of teachers. He has also suggested DC go back to an elected school board. In response Gray touts increases in test scores and takes credit for DC’s commitment to early childhood education, which he championed as chair of the council. He also points at efforts to reinvigorate vocational education. Lastly he lauds his ap-

pointment of Chancellor Kaya Henderson.

Fire and Emergency Services The recent tragic death of 77-year-old Cecil Mills across the street from a firehouse has propelled DC’s troubled Fire and Emergency Services Department (DCFEMS) into the center of the campaign. In the debates Wells, whose council committee holds jurisdiction over the department, has blamed the mayor for its dysfunction. Aside from Mills’ death he points to the inability of DCFEMS to service or even count its equipment. Wells has recently called for the resignations of both the fire chief and the deputy mayor for public safety.

Is the Mud Sticking? Gray’s challengers argue that an incompetent mayor has led the city into a crisis. Moreover, they argue, the mayor’s removal is of paramount importance when voters make their choice on April’s ballot. Given the District’s current renaissance and budget surplus, this is a fairly difficult sell. In a recent Marist Poll commissioned by NBC4, WAMU, and the Washington Informer, 56 percent of Democrats approved of Gray’s handling of the city and 31 percent believed that he deserved to be reelected. On the other hand, 41 percent of Democrats polled stated that they would definitely vote against the mayor in the general election in November. So, some of the mud flying around the debates may be sticking. Yet, can any of the challengers harness this “anyone but Gray” sentiment in time to play the ultimate joke on the incumbent on April 1? u

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The Ward 6 Council Race

by Andrew Lightman

n April 1 voters of Ward 6 will make a choice in the Democratic primary between Charles Allen and Darrel Thompson. Having worked for eight years as Councilmember Tommy Wells’ chief of staff, Allen wants to continue to serve his ward as councilmember. Citing “the missed opportunities of the last eight years,” Thompson wants to employ the skills he learned in the national arena working for Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and former Congressman Richard Gephardt for the betterment of his ward.

Darrel Thompson A Six Point Plan for Progress If perchance you ran into a friendly man dressed up in a Nationals uniform at Hilloween, you have likely met Darrel Thompson. While shaking your hand and asking for your vote, he probably did not have time to explain the six point “Plan for Progress” he has put forward for Ward 6’s future. Thompson begins with education. Rather than focus on a particular component of the public school system, he prefers what he calls a “comprehensive approach.” This starts at the beginning by working to increase the Pre K lottery slots by 10 percent.

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According to Thompson, the educational reforms and elementary school renaissance of the last decade has been uneven. While flagships such as Maury, Brent and the Watkins flourish, others have not progressed as far. Creating equity among all Ward 6 elementary schools is one of his major priorities. He supports increased funding to provide additional aid to students from disadvantaged backgrounds to allow these institutions to help close the achievement gap between minority and white students. He also stresses the need for effective oversight particularly of public charters. “Parents want options,” Thompson stated in a recent debate. He supports increased funding for the arts, languages, libraries, after-school programs and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. Thompson focus on equity extends to the high school level as well. “I’ll see to it that the students at Dunbar High School and Eastern High School get the same access to a quality education as the students at Woodrow Wilson High School,” he states on his website. The needs of the students now enrolled in Ward 6 middle schools and at Eastern are being overlooked in the race to cater to the future needs of those currently in the ward’s elementary schools, he believes. Affordable housing is the second focus of Thompson’s plan. He strongly supports Councilmember Anita Bonds’ bill that would eliminate property taxes for seniors with household incomes of $60,000 and below. Bonds’ initiative does not go far enough, he states. Thompson wants to increase funds for city shelters and the Housing Production Trust Fund, the District’s primary affordable housing initiative. The third element is public safety. Thompson wants to get police officers out of cars and onto bicycles. He supports increasing police compensation. Thompson also strongly believes that the key to reducing crime is to provide meaningful employment. So he wants to increase funding for vocational programs in the traditional public schools, and ensure that all

local development projects hire Ward 6 residents. The fourth pillar involves expanding public Internet access. Thompson wants free Wi-Fi available at every public park in Ward 6. The Capitol Riverside Youth Sports Park forms the next element of Thompson’s program. This popular initiative proposed by Capitol Hill parents seeks to replace the parking lots north of RFK Stadium with playing fields. As an enthusiastic amateur baseball player and little league coach, Thompson strongly supports this proposal. Thompson ends his program with a focus on employment and business development. Thompson wants to use tax incentives to foster diverse neighborhood retail. Large developments such as Reservation 13 offer an opportunity to train and employ local residents, he states, promising to make this a central demand in any negotiation over the sale or lease of public land.

Charles Allen A Neighborhood We Can Always Call Home In a living room on Capitol Hill on any given night of the week, Allen stands in front of a small group of residents making his pitch to be their representative. Summing up his vision under the rubric “A Neighborhood We Can Always Call Home,” he lays out a four point program involving education, affordable housing, aging in place and ethics. During his work as Wells’ chief of staff, Allen assisted the renaissance in Capitol Hill’s elementary schools. As his former boss is fond of pointing out, Ward 6 is the only ward where the school system is opening rather than closing schools. He was also involved in the modernization of Eastern High School, and its reconstitution under the inspired leadership of Rachel Skerritt. The problem, according to Allen, remains the middle schools that form the path from the ward’s thriving elementary schools to Eastern. Inspired by the thoughtful plan authored by The Capitol Hill Public School Parents Organization (CHPSO), Allen supports the following reforms: • better coordination between charter and traditional public schools through an expansion of the common application and lottery system that began this year; • changing the student funding formula to provide

more money to schools with higher populations of economically disadvantaged students; • expanding rigorous academics such as International Baccalaureate program; • rationalizing the feeder patterns to avoid students making long commutes; • increasing oversight over public charters to prevent abuses such as the recent scandal at Options PCS; • giving parents, teachers and principals in traditional public schools more budgetary and administrative autonomy. Affordable housing is the second plank in Allen’s platform. Inclusionary zoning, Allen argues, has created mostly one bedroom and studio apartments. What is needed, given the current homelessness crisis at DC general, are larger, multibedroom units appropriate for families. These should be built as part of mixed income developments. There is a major opportunity for this at Reservation 13, he believes. Aware that the renovation of aging public housing is a central concern in Shaw, Southwest and on Capitol Hill, Allen has committed to a ‘build first’ strategy. Under this approach, new mixed income housing is constructed leaving all existing housing in place. Families are then moved from existing public housing to the new apartments. Their old units are torn down and new units built, making it possible for others to move in turn. This ensures that all current residents are housed in the new development. The key to continuing the renovation of public housing, the expanding the stock of affordable apartments in the District and preventing an increase in homelessness

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is money. In this era of surpluses, Allen believes the city can dedicate significant revenues to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. He also stresses the importance of increasing funding of programs like Emergency Rental Assistance (ERAP) and rental subsidies that stop families from becoming homeless in the first place by providing resources to prevent the loss of apartments. “There is nothing respectful or dignified about sleeping on the floor of a recreation center,” stated Allen in a recent debate. Creating more housing stock would permit a reinvigoration of Fenty’s ‘Housing First’ strategy to be used to solve the homelessness problem, which Allen supports strongly. Under this program, families are quickly shifted from emergency shelters to apartments, and then provided with wrap-around services to stabilize them. Allen also supports an increase in the standard deduction to provide the less well off with more money in their wallets. The fourth plank of Allen’s platform reflects his concern about Ward 6’s seniors. Allen wishes to encourage them to age in place. A major challenge to this, in his opinion, is the lack of neighborhoodbased healthcare. While Kaiser Permanente and Medstar have recently opened facilities on the northeast and southeast sections of Capitol Hill, Southwest and Shaw still lacks such options. Citing his experience as a former policy director for the DC Primary Care Association, Allen believes he has the skills to locate such urgent and primary care clinics throughout the ward. Ethics is the last element in Allen’s program. Claiming to be ‘borrowing the public’s trust,’ Allen has declined to accept any money from corporations or political action committees. Every donation to his campaign, he states, comes with a “face and a name.” Under this regime, business people, limited to making an individual contribution, are unable to grain outsized, secret influence by bundling multiple checks from obtusely named limited liability corporations, LLCs. Concerned about even the appearance of impropriety, Allen has pledged to serve a full-time councilmember. He also strongly supports legislation that would end the DC Council’s involvement in contract approvals.

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Agreements and Disagreements As different as their background appear, Thompson and Allen have many areas of agreement. Both support: • the no-build and reroute option for the Virginia Avenue Tunnel; • a full retroactive pay raise for police offi cers; • moving police offi cers from cruisers to foot and bike patrols; • increased funding for the House Production Trust Fund out of general revenues; • building the Capitol Riverside Youth Sports Park; • ensuring the city moves on developing the fi rst parcel at Reservation 13; • expanding bike and car sharing programs; • making affordable housing must be a central element of any development involving public land; • supporting programs that allow seniors to age in place; • prioritizing constituent services. The two candidates also have some substantial differences over the minimum wage and ethics. Thompson supported the Large Retailer Accountability Act (LRAA). “I don’t like Walmart. You will never find me shopping there,” Allen stated at a recent debate. However, Allen believes the LRAA was flawed and would not have voted for it. The proper course of action was the increase in minimum wage that was passed by the Council, he believes. Allen and Thompson differ on the issue of outside employment for councilmembers. Stating that he can balance such work with his council responsibilities and avoid any conflicts of interest, Thompson has refused to make a commitment against it similar to Allen’s. Thompson also accepts all legal campaign donations including those from corporations or political action committees. He points to the many business people listed among Allen’s contributors calling his opponent’s stance duplicitous. Allen counters that every one of his contributors has a face and a name. Furthermore, he points out that their contributions are limited by the cap on individual donations, which is not the case when a single individual makes donations through multiple corporations. The cap limits the influence of any single donor.

“There is a bright line on this issue and I know which side I stand on,” stated Allen at a recent debate. “It important to do good and not just sound good,” Thompson stated at a recent debate. The answer to recent ethical lapses and criminal conduct on the part of councilmembers, Thompson argues, lies in tightening standards of conduct and increasing oversight over both governmental officials and contractors. The Hine School development is another point of contention. Thompson has solidly aligned himself with the project opponents questioning its height and scale. The project’s design did not have sufficient community input, he argues. Thompson pledges to take a fresh look at the deal. Allen, on the other hand, praising the work of ANC 6B in negotiating community benefits and construction mitigation, believes that project should move forward.

A Fortunate Choice The most important differences between Thompson and Allen may be more subtle. Thompson is traditional Democrat along the lines of mentors Reid and Gephardt. Unlike Allen, tax incentives form a strong element of his approach to helping the aged and securing neighborhood retail. He is also strongly focused on using large development to drive employment for local residents. Providing opportunity for the economically disadvantaged, in his opinion, is the key to improving public safety. Terming himself a “Progressive,” Allen walks in the steps of his mentors Jan Eichhorn and Tommy Wells. Believing the built environment shapes behavior, he focuses on street lighting, transportation, storefront design and green space as the keys to creating flourishing, safe neighborhoods. Rather than relying on large-scale developments to drive employment, he views small business as the engine of growth. Removing regulatory barriers to entrepreneurs is the key to creating jobs for neighborhood residents, he argues. While Allen and Thompson have their differences both large and subtle, both share a heartfelt commitment to social justice. They do not fundamentally disagree on the need for affordable housing, adequate healthcare, the importance of public education, or the community’s responsibility to care of the less fortunate. Ward 6 is fortunate to have a choice between two such able and distinguished candidates. u

Vote Tuesday, April 1 in the 2014 Primary Election Polls will be open from 7am to 8pm.

During a closed Primary, only Democratic, Republican, Libertarian, or DC Statehood Green voters may participate. All voters, regardless of affiliation, may vote in the General Election on November 4, 2014. To find your polling place or confirm your registration information, visit dcboee.org or call (202) 727-2525. Some polling places have recently changed.

Want to vote early?

Vote early at One Judiciary Square starting March 17, or any Early Voting Center in the District starting March 22. Early Voting Centers are open daily from 8:30am until 7pm, except Sunday, March 23.

Early Voting Centers

Need to Register?

To register at the polls, bring a driver’s license or DMV identification card to cast a provisional/special ballot.

No driver’s license? Bring any of the following showing your current name and address in the District:

• • • •

Bank statement Utility bill Lease or residential agreement Occupancy statement

• • •

University housing or tuition bill Statement from a homeless shelter Other government document

March 2014 H 43

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A Race that Matters

At-Large Council Race is Largely Under-the-Radar by Denise Romano

rimary elections are fast approaching on April 1. But while all eyes are on the mayoral campaign, the councilmember at-large race is also happening, with incumbent Anita Bonds trying to secure her second term. Her opponents are Nate Bennett Fleming, Pedro Rubio and John F. Settles II. The winner of the primary will face Kevin Valentine, Jr., Brian Hart, G. Lee Aikin, Marc Morgan, Eugene Puryear and Frederick Steiner in the Nov.4 general election. Bonds was elected councilmember at-large in late 2012 after being appointed by the Democratic Party. She ran again in a special election in April, 2013 in order to fill a seat vacated by now-Council Chair Phil Mendelson. Bonds garnered just 2,979 votes more than the closest of her six opponents, or 31.49 percent of the total vote. This time around, Bonds has more support. She has secured key union endorsements, including the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFCSME) and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). DC for Democracy chose to endorse Bennett-Fleming, while the Gertrude Stein

Democratic Club has not made an endorsement as this paper went to press. Bonds has made more appearances during this campaign than last. In spring 2013, sources say that Bonds hardly showed up at any debates. But Bonds attended a candidate forum held in late January at the Sixth and I Street Synagogue, talking about the need for job creation, economic development and marijuana decriminalization in DC. This was the only forum of its kind this election season.

About Anita Bonds Bonds grew up in Ward 7, where her mother still lives. She attended John Philip Sousa Junior High School, McKinley Technology HighSchool and then Berkeley University in California, majoring in chemistry, before returning to the District, where she married and raised three children living in neighborhoods in Wards

At-Large Council Chair Race

ossibly even more under the radar this primary election is the at-large council chair race. Chair Phil Mendelson faces one opponent, Calvin Gurley. Mendelson was elected to the Council in November, 1998 as an at-large councilmember, where he served until June, 2012. In November, 2012 he was elected chair of the council, where he presides over all legislative matters, as well as the Committee of the Whole which includes the DC Auditor, Board of Zoning Adjustment, the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments and the Office of Planning, among others. Prior to becoming chair, Mendelson was chair of the Council’s Committee on the Judiciary for eight years, responsible for overseeing DC’s public safety agencies. He also served as an ANC Commissioner for almost two decades.

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Anita Bonds

2, 5 and 8. Bonds became involved with the Young Democrats of America, Women’s Strike for Peace and National Women’s Political Caucus. From there, she went on to serve as an advisor and cabinet member to Mayors Marion Barry, Sharon Pratt and Anthony Williams. During her time in government, Bonds served as chair of Advisory Neighborhood Coun-

Mendelson came to DC from Cleveland, Ohio in 1970 to attend American University, where he earned a degree in political science. He currently lives in Northwest and has a daughter who attends DC public schools. His lone opponent is accountant and auditor Calvin Gurley, a native Washingtonian. During his 15 years working for the federal government, he has overseen financial and operation audits in the Office of Comptroller Currency, the FDIC and the US Treasury Department. Gurley is also currently on the mayor’s Blue Ribbon Commission on DC Public Housing; is president of the Fairlawn Civic Association; vice president of the first Orange Hat Patrol in DC, aiming to keep streets safer with citizen patrolling and is president of the Takoma Civic Association; Gurley and his wife live in Takoma. They have two children who graduated from local schools. u

cil 5C for four terms; was president of the Perry School Community Services Center for several terms and served as an officer of the Basic Civic Association and the DC Federation of Civic Associations. In 2006, Bonds was elected chair of the DC Democratic Party, with the assistance of Marion Barry, with whom she has been working since the 1970’s. She was re-elected for that position in 2010, as well as elected to the executive board of the Democratic National Committee and was re-elected to the executive board in 2013. Bonds served as a delegate to the 2008 and 2012 Democratic National Conventions, and paved the way for the DNC’s passage of a resolution in support of DC statehood in 2012. Bonds is no stranger to controversy. Besides being accused by critics of voting in lockstep with Barry, Bonds has ties to Fort Myer Construction, the city’s largest roadpaving contractor. She was a top-ranking executive at the company until she resigned after she won the 2012 election. According to her chief of communications, David Meadows, Bonds has had no outside employment since then and has spent every weekend “out on the community, meeting with residents,” not even taking a vacation. However, some find her ties to Fort Myer questionable. The city pays Fort Myer about $80 million a year directly and even more indirectly through subcontracts on construction projects. Fort Myer’s owners have also given more than $150,000 in campaign contributions, according to campaign finance records.

A “legislative lightweight?” During her time in office, Bonds has authored four pieces of legislation, the Senior Citizen Real Property Tax Relief Act of 2013, the Standard Deduction Adjustment Act of 2013, the Affordable Homeownership Preservation of Equity Accumulation Amendment Act of 2013 and the Criteria for Council Review of Contracts Subcontractor Requirement Amendment Act of 2013.

John Settles

None have passed, but the Senior Citizen Real Property Tax and Affordable Homeownership Preservation of Equity Act are well on their way. According to Bonds, her significant achievements while in office are authoring the Senior Citizen Real Property Tax Relief Act; co introducing the Living Wage for All Act of 2013 and creating her Community Action Summits. The Property Tax Relief Act is poised to be passed by the council and will take effect this fall. It will eliminate property taxes for homeowners aged 75 and older who have maintained DC residence for 15 years or longer and who earn $60,000 or less annually. The Living Wage for All Act will raise the minimum wage to $11.50 per hour for all DC residents. The DC Fiscal Policy Institute supports the concept of the Senior Citizen Real Estate bill, but not necessarily the particulars. Executive Director Ed Lazere said that he opposes the way the bill is structured, but not the goal. “In the end, it looks like something that will pass that directs more help to those that are either coping with high property taxes or rising house costs,” he told this paper. “She can take credit for that.”

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Pedro Rubio

Political activist and former council candidate Bryan Weaver said that he commonly hears Bonds referred to as a “legislative lightweight.” He said that she may come across to some as a flip-flopper. “Some feel she has no central compass, but conversations that I have had with her, [show] that she can get new information and change her mind,” Weaver said.

Opponents John Settles John Settles II grew up in Shepherd Park and attended Shepherd Elementary, St. Ann’s and St. John’s. He graduated from Howard University with a master’s degree in architecture and a bachelor’s degree in finance. Settles then worked at the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, joined the private sector as a realtor and then held management roles at Wells Fargo and Fleet Boston. Settles then founded a real estate development firm, using green practices focusing on low-to-moderate income areas. He also volunteers, serving as director of Lifting Voices and

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as former board chair of the Capitol Hill Group Ministry. Settles lives with his wife and three children who all attend DC public schools. According to his wife, Jacqui Allen-Settles, he had not received any endorsements as of press time, although she is “quite optimistic” that a few high profile ones will come in within the next few weeks. Settles released a plan for a Jobs Trust Fund that aims to lower the city’s unemployment rate by investing in local businesses that would hire residents in communities that need them most. According to a December, 2013 survey by the District Department of Employment Services, Ward 3 has a 1.7 unemployment rate and Ward 2 has a 3.3 percent unemployment rate. Meanwhile, Ward 5’s unemployment rate is 9.4 percent and Ward 8’s is 11.6 percent. Settles said the Fund would lower DC’s income gap. It would be an independent entity funded by the city through budgetary surpluses and investments by other public and private sector sources. A ruling body made up of a board appointed by the mayor, the council, local member institutions and other organizations, would oversee the Fund. Instead of investing in traditional enterprises, Settles would make sure funding went to projects in communities that need them most. He said that the initiatives would not only provide immediate employment, but also sustainability and growth opportunities. Ideas include building a laundry facility, installing solar panels in local homes and businesses, creating an urban growing facility and building an ink and toner cartridge recycling facility. “We must give local organizations, community leaders and other key stakeholders a seat at the table,” said Settles. “These groups and individuals have an in-depth understanding of the specific needs and wants of neighborhoods Their expertise coupled with the vast resources of the District government will create a partner-

ship that could uniquely and effectively develop community-supported, sustainable businesses.” Settles has detailed platforms on affordable housing, education, seniors and public safety, as well. His plan to increase affordable housing includes initiatives such as: giving developers incentives to create three and four bedroom units for young families and micro-unites for young professionals and seniors; giving middle class families, individuals and seniors smart home ownership programs who have been here for more than a decade; put vacant land and underutilized properties to better use by creating affordable housing and creating an independent government entity that would handle “strategic land banding and development to ensure future availability of property.” Settles said that he will also try to help DC’s senior population. If elected, he said that he will work on fixing common problems that they often face, including the rising cost of food and housing outpacing income; not enough transportation options and isolation.

Pedro Rubio Pedro Rubio was born and raised in Ward 4. The son of Salvadorian immigrants, Rubio graduated from American University and is currently a M.P.S candidate for Georgetown University focused on affordable housing. He is an elected board member of the DC Latino Caucus. Rubio works as an accountant for the Department of Health and Human Services, managing federal budgets. He previously managed government contracts for the Department of Interior, the US Fish and Wildlife Service and currently works with the Department of Defense. He also co-founded a non-profit that builds playgrounds in Latin America, volunteers at Georgetown University Hospital’s Oncology Department, and tutors at-risk teens through DC Courts. Rubio said that he was once a troubled student, “but turned his life around” and wants others to do so, as well. If elected, Rubio said that he will focus on education and public safety. He wants to “ensure that all students have an after-school program to go to,” make sure that DC is walkable and safe and provide more affordable housing and neigh-

borhood development. Rubio lives with his sister and her two children, who attend a public school in Ward 4.

Nate Benning Fleming Nate Benning Fleming is currently the US Representative in Congress for DC, commonly known as the Shadow Representative, advocating for voting congressional representation, self-determination rights, and statehood for the District of Columbia. He is the youngest citywide official since Home Rule and has used his office to hold over 100 meetings in the past year with Congressional offices to boost the number of co-sponsors for the statehood bills, with 59 members of the House of Representatives now co-sponsoring the bill. Fleming is a DC native and an adjunct law professor at the University of the District of Columbia’s David A. Clarke School of Law. In 2007, he received a bachelor’s degree from Morehouse College and graduated from University of California, Berkeley, School of Law in 2011. Prior to that, Fleming worked at Goldman Sachs and served as Deputy National Director for AfricanAmerican Religious Outreach for the Kerry-Edwards Presidential Campaign. He also worked in the office of Congressmember Eleanor H. Norton. u

Tired of politics as usual? So am I. Like many of you, I’m tired of old school politics getting in the way of progress. As a dad, businessman and community builder, I’m tired of running into roadblock after roadblock at City Hall. I’m running for the City Council At-Large because we need Real Leadership, with Real Experience so we can get, Real Results. I am the only candidate with real-world experience working on the issues that matter most to DC residents: Education, Community Building, Jobs and making DC a better place to live for all of us. For 20 years I have worked on and developed solutions in the key areas facing our city. I know how to get things done. Now I want to bring that experience to the City Council so we can move our city forward.

Public School Dad and Leader Community Development Advocate Youth Minister Entrepreneur/Former Small Business Owner Grew Up in Shepherd Park, NW

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE for DC City Council At Large

APRIL 1, 2014

share your thoughts at www.settlesfordcatlarge.com

Follow me:

@JohnFSettlesII

Paid for by Committee to Elect John F. Settles II. Jennifer Leonard Treasurer.

Dear Ward 6 Residents, I am running to be your next At-Large City Council member. I have been a member of National Community Church (NCC) on Barracks Row for the past 18 months. After visiting friends and NCC on a weekly basis, as well as meeting many Ward 6 residents, I understand the issues that you care about. As Councilmember, I will ensure 1) to focus on reducing crime, 2) affordable housing for families, 3) great schools in each neighborhood, 4) Senior care, with Long Term Care initiatives and 5) that CSX never builds in your backyard Sincerely, Pedro Rubio At-Large Council-member – Democrat About Pedro:

Professional Background: Former Accountant for the Department of Health and Human Services, Former Contract Specialist for the Department of Interior and Department of Defense, Current Acquisition Specialist for the Department of Energy. Education Background: American University, B.B.A. in Finance; Georgetown University pursuing a Master’s in Real Estate Development & Affordable Housing.

“Pedro Rubio, a Rubio you can trust” Paid for by Rubio for DC. Treasurer Rafael Velasquez. PO Box 55107, Washington DC 20040. A copy of our reports is filed with the Office of Campaign Finance.

March 2014 H 47

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{capitol streets}

Bulletin Board

Rock ‘n’ Roll USA Marathon Course Route The race is on March 15, starting at 7:30 a.m. at 14th St. and Constitution Ave. NW and ends in the RFK Stadium parking lot. The course heads west on Constitution, crosses Memorial Bridge, travels up Rock Creek Parkway, Calvert Street, Harvard Street and then heads south on North Capitol Street. It proceeds east on H St. NE, goes through the Trinidad neighborhood and on to RFK stadium where it crosses the Anacostia and turns around at Fort Dupont Park. It turns south on Minnesota Avenue and then Anacostia Drive and the Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge. It meanders around Southwest for a while to emerge at 9th and Constitution then around the Capitol, E. Capital Street and RFK. You don’t have to be a runner to enjoy this and there are plenty of band (music) stations along the way. For the less hearty, there is a half-marathon and a mini-marathon. Find a detailed course map online.

Will The Washington Monument Ever Reopen? by William Willerby Runners pa thon & Ca ssing the White H Photo: Co reﬁrst BlueCross Blouse at the 2013 Ro urtesy of Co ue ck mpetitor G Shield Rock ‘n’ Ro ‘n’ Roll USA Mar all USA ½ roup, Inc. Marathon.

Public Hearing on CSX Tunnel Project, March 25 Council Chairman Phil Mendelson announced a public hearing of the Committee of the Whole on PR 20-601, the “Sense of the Council for a Hearing on the CSX Virginia Avenue Tunnel Project Resolution of 2013. It will be held Tuesday, March 25, 2014, at 11:00 a.m. in Hearing Room 412 of the John A. Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW. The stated purpose of PR 20-601 is to declare the sense of the Council that the Unites States House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Subcommittee on Highways and Transit should hold a hearing on the CSX Virginia Avenue Tunnel Project. The project is located in Ward 6. Those who wish to testify are asked to tele-

phone the Committee of the Whole, at 202-7248126, or e-mail Crispus Gordon, III, Legislative Assistant, at cgordon@dccouncil.us and provide their name, address, telephone number, and organizational affiliation, if any, by the close of business Friday, March 21, 2014. Persons wishing to testify are encouraged, but not required, to submit 15 copies of written testimony.

Ward 6 Forum on Education Issues Capitol Hill Public Schools Parent Organization is sponsoring an education-focused forum with candidates running in the April 1 primary for the Ward 6 city council seat. Emma Brown, education reporter for the Washington Post, will moderate the discussion. The forum will be held March 6, 6:30-8:00 pm at Stuart-Hobson Middle School, 410 E St., NE.

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Sapore Oil & Vinegar Celebrates 2nd Anniversary Sapore, which means in Italian “flavor, taste, savor or gusto,” is celebrating its second year in business on Capitol Hill. A tasting room and gourmet retail store specializing in premium extra virgin olive oils, vinegars, salts, spices and pastas, Sapore is located at 660 Pennsylvania Avenue SE. Sapore Oil and Vinegar has enjoyed remarkable support from the Capitol Hill neighborhood. saporeoilandvinegar.com

Social Security Planning Workshop at Hill Center On Mar. 6, 7-9:30 p.m., join Certified Financial Planner Howard Pressman for this informative seminar that will cover the basics of Social Security and reveal strategies for maximizing your benefits. Learn answers to questions such as: When should I apply for Social Security? Will Social Security be enough to live on in retirement? How much can I expect to receive? How can I maximize my benefits? You will also learn things such as factors to consider when deciding when to apply for benefits, how to coordinate benefits with your spouse, how to coordinate Social Security with your other sources of retirement income, and more. $25. Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org

Capitol Hill Garden Club Launches Website Read about club membership, activities and meetings on their newly launched website, capitolhillgardenclub.wildapricot.org.

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Ward 6 Council Election Forums Hear candidates Darrel Thomas and Charles Allen speak. There is a Southwest forum on Tuesday, Mar. 4, 7-9 p.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 400 I St. SW. The Shaw forum is Tuesday, Mar. 11, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Watha T. Daniel/Shaw Neighborhood Library, 1630 7th St. NW. Andrew Lightman, Managing Editor of Capital Community News will moderate and questions will be taken from the audience. Sponsoring organizations are the Hill Rag, MidCity DC, ANC 6E, Empower DC, SWNA, CBCC, Westminster Church, The Hill Center and CHRS.

Introduction to Gardening at Southwest Library On Saturday, Mar. 8, 10 a.m., Master Gardener Neil Hoffman will discuss vegetable gardening, particularly in containers and community garden plots, as well as extending the growing season and growing vegetables year round in an Introduction to Gardening. There will also be a brief presentation on helpful gardening resources in the library’s online and on-site collection. Southwest Neighborhood Library, 900 Wesley Pl. SW. 202-7244752. dclibrary.org/southwest

All Politics is Local: A Conversation with Jack Evans On Monday, Mar. 10, 7 p.m., join NBC 4’s Tom Sherwood and Mark Segraves as they talk with Jack Evans, 2014 DC mayoral candidate and Councilmember for Ward 2. He is the Chair of the Committee on Finance and Revenue and

a member of the Committee on Public Safety and the Judiciary. Evans was first elected to the Council in a 1991 special election. He served as Chair Pro Tempore (Vice Chair) of the Council from 1999-2010. He also served as the Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s representative to the Board of Directors for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority and the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments. Free. Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org

New Faith Based Enrollment Centers Help Enroll Residents in Health Plans The Mar. 31 deadline for enrolling in health insurance is approaching fast. Consumers are encouraged to visit these enrollment centers to beat the last minute rush and avoid the tax penalty. DC Health Link assisters and licensed health insurance brokers will be at each of the faith based enrollment locations to provide information and answer questions. In Ward 6, Pilgrim AME Church, 1673 Rosedale St. NE, is open Thursdays, 2-6 p.m. and Sundays, 11 a.m. In Ward 6, Brown AME Church, 1363 Constitution Ave. NE, is open Mondays through Fridays, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

DPR Summer Job Hiring Fairs The 2014 summer hiring application was made available to the pubic on Feb. 3 and appli-

National Speech/Language Therapy Center Registration is NOW OPEN for Summer Camp. Early registration discount available before May 1st. Summer Camp Services include:

SPEECH THERAPY | ABA THERAPY | AUTISM SERVICES Contact us for details: contactdc@nationalspeech.com or (202) 470-4185 Visit our website www.nationalspeech.com for more information about our year-round services and programs.

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Northeast Library Reopens After Renovations theast Library. Photo: The opening of the Nor theast Library Courtesy of Friends of Nor

cations will be accepted throughout the summer. Two DPR hiring fairs will take place on Saturday, Mar. 15 and Saturday, Apr. 19. The time and locations for the fairs will be announced shortly. Prospective applicants will be able to learn about the many positions DPR has to offer; speak with representative from various divisions. There will also be opportunities to fill out an application at the fair. All applicants are asked to dress in professional, interview attire and bring both an electronic and hard/paper copy of their resume. To find out more iabout DPR’s Summer Employment opportunities, position descriptions, program descriptions and for future hiring fair dates, visitsummer. dpr.dc.gov.

African American Poets Celebrated at St. Augustine’s St. Augustine’s Art & Spirit Coffeehouse on Wednesday, Mar. 12 will feature readings from African American poets by Black history and culture enthusiasts and long-time parishioners Thelma D. Jones and Josephus Nelson. “Select

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On Feb. 8, the Friends of the Northeast Library helped to sponsor a day-long community party for the Capitol Hill neighborhood to mark the reopening of the branch after it had been closed for 17 months for renovations. The interior is more open with more usable space and meeting-study rooms. There’s a new elevator and the stairs have been relocated to bring in more sunlight and improve security. At the party, a balloon artist entertained children, there was a cupcake decorating station in the teen space, a jazz trio performed in the adult reading area. The Friends of the NE Library signed up new members and gave away tote bags and t-shirts. There was also a local history station set up so visitors could learn about their homes from the DC Public Librarie’s Washingtoniana staff. The renovation was the most significant work done to the branch since its construction in 1932. The Friends of the NE Library helps raise money to support the librarians and fund programs and activities that benefit the neighborhood. Most of their funds are raised through book sales so please consider donating your quality used books to the Friends by bringing them by the branch. For more information about the Friends, contact FONEL President Vince Morris at vsmorris@gmail.com. Northeast Neighborhoo Library is at 330 7th St. NE. 202-698-0058. dclibrary.org/northeast

Readings of African American Poets” will begin at 7 p.m. at the church, 600 M St. SW. The free program includes coffee and desserts served throughout the evening, followed by questions and answers. Readings will be from such celebrated African American poets as Langston Hughes, Nikki Giovanni, Arna Bontemps, Maya Angelou, James Weldon Johnson and others. 202-554-3222. staugustinesdc.org

Capitol Hill Garden Club “Gardening History as Theater” The Capitol Hill Garden Club is presenting a program called “John Bartram Lives” at its meeting on Tuesday, Mar. 11, at 7 p.m. at the Church of the Brethren, 337 North Carolina Ave. SE. An actor will represent Bartram, an American born in 1699, as a preeminent naturalist in horticultural history. With passion and humor, he describes Bartram’s influence on English and early American presidential gardens. His story starts at the very beginning of the

international world of plant discovery and identification. The program is free and open to all.

Exchange Your House and See the World Have you ever thought about doing a house exchange to help you see the world? After two sold-out workshops, seasoned house exchanged Beth Millemann returns to guide you through everything you need to know to make it happen. Learn how Milleman and her family began exchanging and see some of the incredible places she has gone, including London, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Rennes, Sardinia, San Diego, St. Croix, and more. Free. It’s on Sunday, Mar. 16. 2-4 p.m. at the Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. Register online at hillcenterdc.org or call 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org

March 6, 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; January 4, 2015

oday, China and the United States are the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two largest economies, major powers that often cooperate strategically. They also share a complicated history. The two have been World War II allies and Cold War enemies, partners and rivals. Using mail and stamps, Pacific Exchange brings a human scale to Chinese-U.S. relations in three areas: commerce, culture, and community. The exhibit focuses on the 1860s to the 1970s, a time of extraordinary change in China. It also explores Chinese immigration to the United States, now home to four million Chinese Americans.

www.postalmuseum.si.edu/PACIFICEXCHANGE 2 Massachusetts Ave. NE (Next door to Union Station) March 2014 H 53

United for a Healthy Anacostia River Coalition Formed

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Seven leading environmental and business groups have formed United for a Healthy Anacostia River, a new coalition that will work to educate key audiences about the toxics in the bottom sediments of the Anacostia River. United for a Healthy Anacostia River is reviewing the Anacostia River Sediment Project Remedial Investigation Work Plan released by the District Department of the Environment (DDOE) on Jan. 30. The work plan lays out a framework to guide future clean-up of toxins from the bottom sediments of the Anacostia River. A central component of the coalition’s work will be a robust digital and social media campaign to educate key audiences about the state of the river and encourage them to be advocates for cleaning it up. A centerpiece of that effort is an online petition addressed to Mayor Gray and members of the DC Council, asking them to, “make a commitment to fully cleaning up the toxic chemicals found in and around the Anacostia … [and] pledge to have the toxic cleanup underway by Jan. 2017--three years from now.” The petition is located at change.org/petitions (search “Anacostia”). Talk of the Hill with Bill Press: Conversation with authors of HRC: State Secrets and the Rebirth of Hillary Clinton HRC is the mesmerizing story of Hillary Clinton’s political rebirth, based on eyewitness accounts from deep inside her inner circle. HRC offers a rare look inside the merciless Clinton political machine, as Bill Clinton handled the messy business of avenging Hillary’s primary loss while she tried to remain above the partisan fray. Exploring her friendships and alliances with Robert Gates, David Petraeus, Leon Panetta, Joe Biden, and the president himself, Allen and Parnes show how Hillary fundamentally transformed the State Department through the force of her celebrity and her unparalleled knowledge of how power works in Washington. This is an essential inside look

at the woman who could be our next president. Thursday, Mar. 20, 7 p.m. Register online at hillcenterdc.org or call 202-549-4172. Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org

Friends of Kim Brenegar Meeting, March 29 Kim’s Garden’s steering committee, will host the annual neighborhood meeting at Christ Our Shepherd Church, Saturday, Mar. 29, 11:30 a.m. You are welcome to come to discuss garden updates, dedication plans this summer and more. Kim’s Garden is located at the intersection of 8th St. SE and Independence Ave. SE and North Carolina Ave. SE. Visitkimsgardendc.blogspot.com for updates.

The Summit: In-Depth Exploration of DC Theater Arena Stage is offering a rare opportunity for DC-area theatergoers to hear groups of distinguished actors, directors, playwrights and artistic directors discuss their work and the myriad challenges facing their art form, in two remaining Monday evening panels entitled The Summit. The panels will gather some of the region’s most accomplished theater professionals to talk about everything from their passion for their craft to the problems of trying to lure new audiences to live theater. Tickets are free, but reservations are encouraged. Tickets may be reserved online at arenastage.org, by phone at 202-488-3300 or at the Sales Office at 1101 6th St. SW. Check online for dates and more details.

SW Gardens Spring Kick-off The Lansburgh Park community garden Spring Kick-off is on Saturday Mar. 22, 2-5 p.m. All are welcome to come out for activities, workshops and music. The park is at I St. and Delaware Ave. SW. swgardens.org DDOT Accepting Applications for 2014 Performance Parking Zone Community Benefits Program.

The District of Columbia Department of Transportation invites eligible entities to apply to the 2014 Performance Parking Zone Community Benefits Program. Within the three existing performance parking zones in the District (Ballpark Area, H Street NE and Columbia Heights), the following entities are eligible to apply: Advisory Neighborhood Commissions, Business Improvement Districts and Main Street organizations. The deadline for submission is Friday, Mar. 21, 2014 at 5 p.m. The Neighborhood Performance Parking Fund establishes annual resources to provide or accelerate non-automobile transportation investments in the Districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s performance parking zones. Proposed projects must be within or immediately adjacent to the performance parking zone. Information about project prioritization and evaluation criteria, selection process, and funding availability is included in the Request for Application. A copy of the RFA may be obtained from DDOT at 55 M St. NE, 4th Floor. An electronic version of the RFA, and additional information, may be obtained by contacting Kelly Peterson at 202-671-4573, or by email at kelly.peterson@dc.gov.

Eat Fresh from the Farm!

JOIN ONE ACRE FARM CSA!

Hill Center Galleries MultiArtist Exhibition From Mar. 6-Apr. 27, Hill Center Galleries welcomes the Montgomery County Plein Air Artists Juried Exhibition to Hill Center. This exhibit features the artwork of over 20 artists whose works show diverse plein air interests. Also showing in Hill Center

Locally grown vegetables delivered by farmer Mike weekly to the Hill NOW ENROLLING FOR THE 2014 SEASON! $660 for 22 weeks* * $30 new member fee (includes a recipe book and durable bag)

Farmer Mike: michael@oneacrefarm.com

oneacrefarm.com Check us out on Facebook: www.facebook.com/oneacrefarmmd

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COUNCIL ELECTION FORUMS Hear the Two Candidates Speak! Charles Allen Darrel Thompson In Southwest

In Shaw

Westminster Presbyterian Church Tuesday, March 4th 7 to 9 p.m.

Watha T. Daniel/Shaw Library Tuesday, March 11th 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

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Galleries is the artwork of Ahmed Alkarkhi, Betsy Glassie, Eric Celarier, Tsolmon Damba, Alan Braley, Sandy Barrett Hassan, and Jacquelyn Flowers. The reception with the artists will take place on Mar. 19 from 6-8 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org

Annual Potholepalooza Campaign This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Potholepalooza will start in mid-to-late March, when ground temperatures are consistently above freezing. As part of this campaign, DDOT will add extra crews to fill potholes and aims to repair identified locations within 48 hours (the normal response time is within 72 hours). To report potholes, call 311; use the online request service at 311.dc.gov; or the new DC311 smatphone application. Those who report potholes should identify the precise location, including the correct quadrant (NW, NE, SW or SE), and provide as much detail as possible about the hazard (including the approximate size and depth of the pothole). DDOT crews will also be out and about proactively identifying potholes. In January, DDOT worked to fill 3,213 potholes, with more than 2,500 potholes addressed in February. DDOTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s response to pothole-related service requests has been swift; the agency boasts a three-day turnaround time for filling potholes after they have been reported. u

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jackie@jackiev.com 202-547-5088 Licensed in DC, VA, MD & FL March 2014 H 57

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A Budget Wish List

DC Financial Policy Institute’s Suggestions on Closing the Income Gap

ncome inequality is a concern all across the country, and especially here in the nation’s capital. The gap between rich and poor in the District is one of the highest among the largest cities in the United States. While many residents are doing very well in DC’s higher-education driven economy, those without these credentials are falling further behind, and their kids will likely, too. That’s not a healthy scenario for our city. All the resources being put into education reform, for example, will have limited impact if thousands of youngsters are not ready to learn because they don’t have a safe and stable place to live. Mayor Gray and the DC Council have an opportunity with next year’s budget to start narrowing the income gap and increasing opportunity for DC residents through investments in affordable housing, education, health care, job assistance, and targeted tax reductions. The mayor will present his budget proposal by April 3. The Council then will have eight weeks to analyze the package and make changes-though the budget must remain balanced. The following key investments in next year’s budget can help make the District a city where all can prosper and thrive.

A Safe and Secure Place for Every DC Resident to Live The surge of families in DC emergency shelter this winter has put the District’s severe lack of affordable housing into sharp focus. The District needs to maximize its tools to both maintain and create housing for various income levels, including those who make DC’s minimum wage. This should include funding for programs that help people rent as well as own a home. The most versatile tool in the affordable housing toolbox is the Housing Production Trust Fund. The current dedicated funding stream is not sufficient to keep on track with DC’s stated goal of creating 10,000 new affordable housing

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by Jenny Reed units by 2020. DCFPI recommends that Mayor Gray include $50 million addition dollars for the trust fund to next year’s budget. This would bring the fund to nearly $100 million and be enough to build or renovate over 1,300 homes. Part of the trust fund should be set aside to directly combat chronic homelessness. Providing housing and supportive services to these residents, who typically suffer from severe health conditions and/or severe mental illness, is a proven model both to save lives and the city money. The DC Interagency Council on Homelessness has determined this can be accomplished through a $38 million set-aside from the Housing Production Trust Fund and an addition $13 million to the homeless services budget. Mayor Gray and the Council would be wise to make this allocation. Programs to help working families with the gap between what’s reasonable to spend on rent and the market rates should also be bolstered. DC’s Local Rent Supplement Program makes housing affordable to residents with very lowincomes in two ways, both by giving vouchers directly to residents as well as providing funds to keep units in buildings affordable. A $10 million investment split between both approaches could create 830 affordable housing opportunities. We also need to help those who are currently in our city’s emergency shelter system. Rapid re-housing moves people out of shelter quickly and into housing with short-term rental assistance and supportive services, but currently only serves families and veterans. An investment of $5.8 million for rapid re-housing could help end homelessness for at least 270 homeless individuals. And we also need to make sure that individuals and families can buy a home too. DC’s First Right Purchase program has preserved

nearly 1,400 affordable homes for low- and moderate-income residents since 2002. It is DC’s key anti-displacement tool. Yet funds haven’t been sufficient to meet the need of tenants seeking assistance to purchase their building when it’s put up for sale. A $20 million allocation could support nearly 300 units for first right purchase in FY 2015.

Preparing DC Residents for the Future Education remains a top concern, and next year’s budget should make key investments not only in our kids, but in parents as well. For youngsters in DC’s publically-funded traditional and charter schools, DCFPI strongly supports changing the school funding formula to direct more resources to high-poverty schools. The idea of a new weight in the formula for “at risk” students was blessed by the DC Council in legislation adopted last fall. That law authorized additional monies for the 30,000 students who are homeless, in foster care, or eligible for food stamps or welfare benefits. It also requires that 90 percent of these funds go directly to schools, with autonomy for principals on how

Dave Lloyd & Associates 703-593-3204 www.davelloyd.net davidlloyd@realtor.com

Enthusiastically serving clients on both sides of the river. best to use those funds. A recently released study commissioned by the Deputy Mayor for Education largely agreed. This would require $33 million in new funds. Helping moms and dads prepare for work is also important. This year, the Gray administration made $5.5 million available to fund assessment, occupational literacy, postsecondary education and digital literacy for residents seeking employment help from both the city’s employment services agency and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. An additional $1 million went to accelerated learning programs to help adults transition from adult education to postsecondary training and education. These funds should be built into the budget for the Office of the State Superintendent for Education next year and beyond. DC’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program is another important tool to help families reach stability by providing job training and cash assistance to families with children. Yet, there is only capacity to offer job training to about half of the parents on TANF who need it. Increasing the number of job training slots will allow parents to begin making progress immediately, rather than languishing on a wait list for months. With time limits on these benefits, quick access to training is critical. A $30 million investment would help double the number of job training slots available Further, the low level of DC’s TANF benefits leaves many families in a state of constant crisis. TANF parents report that both their TANF and SNAP benefits (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as food

stamps) run out before the end of the month. This is not surprising as DC’s TANF and SNAP benefits bring families to just under 60 percent of the federal poverty line. A $10 million investment would raise these benefits by 15 percent and add a cost-of-living adjustment to ensure benefits don’t continue to erode over time.

Arlington N. $1,559,900

Oh so close to Metro! Gorgeous brand new “Madison Manor” Craftsman offering all the bells & whistles. Perfectly sited on mature lot with wrap around porch, sun-drenched exposure and walk-out elevation.

Arlington N. $1,529,900

Making DC’s Tax System More Progressive DC can play a role in making sure that when families work, they are rewarded. DC’s tax system is currently structured so those who make the most money keep the most money because they pay the lowest percentage of their income in combined DC taxes. Meanwhile, DC’s low and middle income residents pay a much higher share of their income in taxes. DC’s Tax Revision Commission made several recommendations to improve the income tax system: increasing DC’s personal exemption and standard deduction, reducing tax rates on middle income households, and increasing Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) benefits for childless workers. Together, this package would provide tax relief to DC’s low and middle-income residents. The DC budget is a statement of our priorities as a city. DCFPI looks forward to working with Mayor Gray and the DC Council on these, and other critical priorities, to make sure that we allocate resources to create a healthy, prosperous city for all. DCFPI seeks to inform public debates on budget and tax issues and to ensure that the needs of lowincome residents are considered. www.dcfpi.org u

Picture perfect golf course views. 5,400 base sq ft, four levels, 7 bedrooms, 4.5 baths & 2 car detached garage. Sited on .29 acre (12,694sq ft) cul-de-sac lot in Country Club Hills.

Arlington S. $769,900

This rarely offered 1880 Victorian treasure, full of period charm and details is nestled on a beautiful landscaped lot in the historic Glen Carlin neighborhood. Just steps to park, trails & library.

Arlington N. $1,529,900

Brand spanking new 5br, 4.5 bath Craftsman nestled on a perfectly level deep garden lot. Stellar Country Club locale. Just minutes to town via Chain Bridge.

105 6th Street SE #105 Just Sold for $235,000

308 13th Street SE #2 Just Sold for $328,500 We brought the buyer!

Weichert, Realtors.

4701 Old Dominion Drive • Arlington, VA 22207 March 2014 H 59

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DC’s Dirty Little Secret

Toxins in the Anacostia River

by Denise Romano

ost Washingtonians know that DC Water is trying to alleviate the city’s combined sewer overflow (CSO) problem. But the average resident isn’t aware of the toxins that are constantly flowing into the Anacostia River. According to Paul Connor, deputy director of environmental services administration at the District Department of Environment (DDOE), major contaminants include polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), heavy metals like arsenic and lead, and pesticides. Several of these toxins are linked to neurological damage and cancer in both humans and wildlife. In fact, the US Fish and Wildlife Service studied the high rates of cancer in brown bullhead catfish in the Anacostia, due to the contaminants in the river itself and in sediment. In early February, a group of concerned citizens formed United for a Healthy Anacostia, aiming to educate the public about river toxins, as well as to put pressure on government agencies to expedite the cleanup process. Doug Siglin, one of its members, sat down with us to explain why this issue is so pressing.

Slow and Sludgy To best understand the significant effects of these toxins, it’s important to know how the Anacostia flows. The Anacostia River is a tributary to the Potomac River, flowing north to south. It has a stream network of dendritic patterns, much like a leaf, that all feed down to the main part of the river. Its watershed is maintained by three counties: a fifth in Montgomery, a fifth in Prince George’s and the rest in the District. Siglin explained that since the water is flowing north and west, geographically and hydraulically, tidal sludge isn’t being taken out with the ebb and flow of each tide. “The practical impact of that is if you throw something in the river, whether it be a piece of trash or oil, it tends to slosh back and forth and not flush out,” he said. Toxins come in from all over the stream network. Siglin identified six major sites that likely pollute the Anacostia.

Kenilworth Park The site of the National Park Service’s Kenilworth

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Park and Aquatic Gardens was DC’s garbage dump for decades. Back in 1942, the city lit it on fire, and it burned constantly until 1968. “People dumped everything there,” Siglin said, adding that toxins can include residue from old army ammunitions and equipment. “In 1968, some kid got burned up in it, so they stopped the burning and closed it in 1970.” However, NPS simply put soil over it, so all the toxins remain and leach into the groundwater. Since it was an active dump for decades without the environmental laws that we have today, it’s hard to know exactly what chemicals are there, but one of them is most likely PCB, which is a heavy, oil-like substance that was used in electrical equipment. It cannot freeze or burn and is highly toxic. Congressed banned its use in 1979. The NPS has installed additional groundwater monitoring wells along the perimeter of the site. This data will be used to reach a decision on how to clean up the area.

Pepco’s Benning Road site Just downstream from Kenilworth is Pepco’s Benning Road site, a generating station that went into operation in 1819, burning coal to generate electricity. Not only was coal – a known pollutant – used as its base fuel, but all of the generators used PCBs. The site encompasses almost 200 acres and is located right in the center of the District on the Anacostia. Pepco wants to revamp the whole area, since it is no longer in use. In December 2012, Pepco entered in a consent agreement with DDOE to clean up the site, a process that is now in its final stages, according to Connor.

Washington Gas site Further south is the old Washington Gas coal plant, where a chemical process to turn coal into gas was used to light houses before electricity. Connor said this site has a high concentration of PAHs, a result of the coal to gas conversion. The residue is a tar-like, cancer-causing substance. Washington Gas entered an agreement with DDOE and NPS and agreed to

remove one to three feet of soil in areas where contaminants are present. Study of the water adjacent to the site is anticipated to begin this summer.

Poplar Point On the east side of the river, just across from Nationals Park, is the Poplar Point site. One part used to be a naval base that manufactured aircraft, producing all sorts of contaminants. After that, it became a tree nursery, where DC’s government planted trees and flowers. However, for decades poisonous pesticides were used, which seeped into the wetlands located right next to it and into the groundwater. The nursery was eventually abandoned. Connor said that DDOE is “undertaking a cleanup, pursuant to an order issued by the NPS.”

Washington Navy Yard What is now an office park at the Washington Navy Yard was once the largest army naval manufacturing facility in the history of the world, dating back to 1799. It was the first land site of the US Navy, where over 25,000 employees built ships and armaments during World War II, with no environmental control, dumping all kinds of solvents and chemicals into the Anacostia that likely remain at the bottom today. Connor said that a cleanup at this site, lead by DDOE, is also underway.

CSX Railway Yard Last but not least is the CSX Railway yard which runs adjacent to the Anacostia Freeway. According to Melanie Cost, a spokesperson for CSX, “extensive sampling and analysis in its rail yard and

in the Anacostia River sediments nearby, as well as upstream and downstream from the rail yard” have been conducted under an agreement with DDOE. Cost said that the analyses show that the CSX rail yard “does not contribute and has not contributed to the elevated levels of contaminants that have accumulated in the Anacostia and its sediments.” According to Siglin however, the rail yard is “polluted like a rail yard is polluted.”

Looking forward DDOE launched a project a year and a half ago to investigate and clean up contaminated sediments in the river, which can be a lengthy process. Connor said that DDOE is in the process of developing a “broader plan to rehabilitate and develop the Anacostia” so the “communities on the river can use it without any fear of exposure…it has tremendous potential. When you are worried about exposure, you can’t really enjoy or use the river.” However, United for a Healthy Anacostia wants to make sure that these cleanups come to fruition. “We are asking people to become a part of this campaign to keep heat on the politicians to start this process of identifying and putting out feasibility studies,” Siglin said. United for a Healthy Anacostia is calling for all preliminary studies to be done within a year and cleanup within three years. The group is in the process of planning a candidate forum on the issue, scheduled for March 14. It’s important that funds for this cleanup are included in this year’s budget, Siglin said. For more information or to get involved, visit HealthyAnacostiaRiver. org. u

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{capitol streets / anc news}

NEWS ANC 6A by Denise Romano

ANC to Host Mayoral Forum The DC Federation of Civic Organizations is holding a mayoral forum March 26 at Eastern High School, in which ANC 6A is a sponsor. This time around, there will be no straw poll, due to time constraints. Commissioner Calvin Ward was appointed to be a representative. The ANC’s responsibility is to promote the event, while the Fed will pick up all costs. Commissioner Sondra Phillips-Gilbert, whose son attends the school, said that the forum is a great way to motivate youth to become active in politics. She suggested that certificates of participation be given to students who were involved at a school assembly at a later date. That motion was passed unanimously.

Green Light for School Grants Commissioners unanimously passed a motion to approve grant funding to The Eliot-Hine Middle School and to the Maury Elementary School. EliotHine will receive $1,500 in support of aquarium equipment. Parents and teachers from the school explained that students will catch fish from the Anacostia River and will be building an aquarium based on the river in their lobby. Maury will receive $1,000 in support of printing press supplies and other art supplies.

H Street Farmer’s Market to Return for Tenth Year Juliet Glass from the H Street NE FRESHFARM Market announced that for the tenth year in a row, the market would be open every Saturday from April 19 through December 20, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., on 13th St. between H St. and Wylie St. During those times, streets are closed to traffic and local farmers from the Chesapeake area display their fruits, veggies, meats and cheeses.

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Commissioners unanimously passed a motion to allow the market to stay open until 3 p.m. for an after-hours party for neighborhood residents one day in June, tentatively scheduled for June 7. There will be games for kids and a chance for farmers to mingle. No cash will be exchanged. A letter will be sent to the mayor’s office, DDOT and the Department of Homeland Security by the ANC requesting this. In addition, commissioners unanimously passed a motion in support of the market to being allowed to operate at its usual location and time this coming year and to continue to operate during the H Street Festival.

Pocket Park Testimony Commissioners unanimously approved a motion to allow Commissioner Holmes testify at a March 3 DDOT hearing regarding pocket parks. Holmes will testify that any officer of the commission is authorized to testify in favor of requiring presentation to the “appropriate ANC of any permit to plant, fence or otherwise enclose any portion of a park, the use of which has been transferred to the city from the National Parks Service; and accounting of which parks are under the jurisdiction of which city agency; that any private plantings be at the risk of the individual or organization doing the planting and to seek protection of the open space and public access of all corner parks from transfer to private use or enclosure for private use.”

Alarming Alleyways There are a number of alleyways in the ANC that need attention. Chair Nick Alberti said that commissioners would compile a list and send it to DDOT to do the proper repairs. Commissioner Gloria Nauden is already working with DDOT regarding the alley behind 11th and 12th Streets and Maryland Ave. which “looks like a third world country” with “landslide conditions.”

Development update at 1350 Maryland Avenue

Will Lansing of Valor Development gave an update on the construction site at the corner of Maryland Ave. and 13th St. Work began on what will be high-rise condos over the holidays, but was delayed due to weather. Completion time is pushed back to February, 2015 from late 2014. Lansing said to expect to see a structure coming out of the ground within the coming weeks and urged residents to report any trash or problems. In May, a sales office for the condos will open on H Street. One and two bedroom units will cost $300,000 to $400,000. As part of inclusionary zoning, seven units for low-income families will be in the building. Valor is also working with the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) to rebuild the alley behind the building. Lansing said they are looking into investing $100,000 to $150,000 on the revitalization. For more information, contact Lansing at 202570-7060 or by emailing Will@Valordeb.com

Economic Development and Zoning motions The committee unanimously approved a motion to recommend that the ANC write a letter to BZA in support of BZA 18694, which seeks a variance from the floor-to-area ration requirements in connection with planned construction of a sports bar at 1362 H Street NE provided that the following conditions are met by the applicant: all trash is stored indoors; loading occur at the rear of the building; no amplified music to be played on the roof deck; roof deck hours to not extend beyond 11 p.m. Sun. through Thurs. and 12 a,m, on Fri and Sat.; any signage on the building be kept within the character of H Street. A motion was unanimously passed to recommend that the ANC write a letter to BZA in support of BZA 18724, which seeks variances from the requirement that there be a minimum lot area of 900 square

feet for each residential unit, from the lot width and size requirements for a row house being converted back to residential use and from the court width and area requirements, in connection with the conversion of the church at 819 D St. NE and two adjoining row houses into residential development, provided that any contracts for sale or lease of the residential units restrict the number of residential parking permits to be issued to residents to no more than six and that this restriction be recorded in the land records. The commission unanimously passed a motion to recommend that the ANC write a letter to BZA in support of BZA 18720, which seeks a special exception from the lot occupancy requirements for the construction of a one-story garage with a mezzanine at 723 13th St. NE, provided that the applicant has two letters from adjoining neighbors stating that they support the project, specifically acknowledging that the garage has a proposed height of 15 feet. A motion was passed 4-1 to recommend that the ANC write a letter to BZA in support of BZA 18692, which seeks to use a variance to permit the construction of a new eight-unit apartment house on the vacant property located at 1717 E St. NE, provided that any contracts for sale or lease of the residential units restrict the number of residential parking permits to be issued to residents to be more than three and that this restriction be recorded in the land records. The applicant agreed to hire local workers for construction and property maintenance and to provide support for a neighborhood youth organization.

Other Motions A motion passed 5-1 to approve the settlement agreement with Sin Bin Sports Bar and Restaurant. Commissioner Jay Williams said it was “refreshing” to work with such cooperation. In lieu of an increased number of accidents, commissioners unanimously passed a motion to send a letter to

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ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION 6A NICK ALBERTI, CHAIR, 202-543-3512 Serving the Near Northeast, North Lincoln Park, Rosedale, and Stanton Park communities

★ ★ ★

ANC 6A generally meets the second Thursday of the month, at Miner Elementary School, 601 15th Street, NE.

www.anc6a.org

Next ANC 6A is 2nd Thursday, March 13 Alcohol Beverage Licensing Committee 3rd Tuesday, Mar. 18, 7pm • Sherwood Recreation Center Corner of 10th & G Streets, NE • Chair, Jay Williams, 906-0657 Transportation & Public Space Committee 3rd Monday, Mar. 17, 7pm • check website to confirm details incl. location Chair, Omar Mahmud, 546-1520 Economic Development & Zoning Committee 3rd Wednesday, Mar. 19, 7pm • Sherwood Recreation Center Corner of 10th and G Streets, NE • Chair, Dan Golden, 641-5734 Community Outreach Committee 3rd Monday, Mar. 17, 7pm • Maury Elementary School - 13th Street & Constitution Avenue, NE • Chair, Elizabeth Nelson, 543-3512

Please check the Community Calendar on the website for cancellations and changes of venue.

DDOT, asking them to install signs that say “Cross traffic does not stop,” at the intersections of 10th St. and East Capitol St. and at 10th St. and Massachusetts Ave. Commissioner Holmes explained pedestrians often jump out into traffic and cars do not have enough time to slow down.

Announcements Throughout March and April, a 23-member team of community and union members will make recommendations on school zoning boundaries. Volunteers are needed to look at the policies being considered by the city and will give a preliminary report to the Department of Education in May. To volunteer or give comment at any time, visit EngageDC.org. The Age, Family, City Initiative, focused on making DC a great place to grow up and grow old, will be doing a block-by-block survey throughout the District in March, finding out what issues mean the most to residents. Volunteers are needed. Call 202-7277973 or visitagefriendly.dc.gov for more info. Chair Nick Alberti warned that winter is not over yet and the city is providing help to those who need. Warming centers, such as at Judiciary Square, opened to keep residents out of the cold. For information on warming centers and how to keep safe, call DC’s Hypothermia hotline at 202-309-7093. The Rosedale Neighborhood Library will be holding a prom dress drive, collecting prom dresses, shoes and accessories that will be donated to students in the DC area. Items must be no more than five years old and must be in good, clean condition. Donations are accepted Mon., Wed., Fri. and Sat. from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Tues. and Thurs. from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. and on Sun. from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more info, visit DCLibrary. org/rosedale.

Other Business

Preservation Cafe: Gary Barnhart, a Capitol Hill based

craftsman, will present “Money-Saving Preventative Home Maintenance,” a talk on simple and cost-effective measures to extend the life of the components of your home, Wed. Mar. 19, 6:30-7:15 p.m., Ebenezer’s Coffee House (downstairs), 2nd and F St. NE

Community Forum: “Paddling and Preserving Capitol Hill’s River” with members of the Anacostia Watershed Society. Discover boating and conservation activities. Sign up for river tours; learn about new docks and kayak rentals;and pick up the newly published National Park Service Anacostia trail map. Thurs. Mar. 27, 7-8:30 p.m., Northeast Library, 330 7th St. NE.

Both of these events are free. No reservations required.

Save the Date:

Annual Mothers Day House and Garden Tour, May 10 & 11

202-543-0425 www.chrs.org 64 H Hillrag.com

Commissioner Calvin Ward thanked residents for attending a meeting at his home with members of the police department. Details were given regarding plans to increase security around the neighborhood. Ward also noted that he supports Charles Allen running for Council in Ward 6 and invited all to a meet-and-greet at his home on March 17. Commissioner David Holmes requested that a letter be sent to the Historic Preservation Review Board (HPRB) alerting them to illegal construction going on at 901 D Street. Holmes said that construction is visible from the street, which is not permissible according to the developer’s plans. He simply wants HPRB to be aware of the situation and look over the plans again. ANC6A meets on the second Thursday of every month (except August) at Miner Elementary School. The 6A committees meet at the following times: Alcohol Beverage and Licensing, third Wednesday Tuesday of every month at the Sherwood Recreation Center. Community Outreach, third Monday of each month, Maury Elementary School. Economic Development and Zoning, third Wednesday of each month, Sherwood Recreation Center. Transportation and Public Space, third Monday of every month, location will be posted on the website, www.anc6a.org. u

ANC 6B

by Jonathan Neeley

dvisory Neighborhood Commission 6B held its monthly open meeting on Tuesday, November 11 at the Hill Center. Commissioners Campbell and Loveland were absent, leaving eight commissioners to vote on motions brought before the Commission.

Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6C ANC 6C serves Capitol Hill, Union Station, NoMa as far east as 8th Street N.E. The community is invited to attend/participate. Monthly meetings are generally the second Wednesday of the month, 7 pm, Heritage Foundation, 214 Massachusetts Avenue N.E. Call for information: (202) 547-7168. www.anc6c.org

Combo Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee / Outreach and Constituent Services Task Force ANC 6B’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee and Outreach and Constituent Services Task Force held a joint meeting on February 6 to approve testimony for a number of upcoming city oversight hearings, all scheduled throughout February and March of this year, as well as feedback for Mayor Gray’s 2015 budget priorities. The Commission reviewed the proposed testimonies at the meeting. The proposed testimony for the Alcoholic Beverage Regulation Administration notes that ANC 6B has over 70 establishments with liquor licenses that will need to be renewed this year, and the current practice of renewing them all at once adds to the ABC Committee’s workload while limiting meaningful discourse with each establishment. The testimony also points out inconsistencies in various settlement agreements that should be streamlined: for example, stock language is changed for one bar’s settlement agreement while the SA with a different bar with the exact same issue is not. Finally, the testimony recommends that ABC inspectors make better efforts to coordinate with other agencies to better and more quickly address health and environmental issues. The Commission voted 8-0 to approve the testimony. The joint committee also prepared testimony for upcoming hearings for nine other agencies and departments. Testimony for the Metropolitan Police Department will address crime statistics and seasonal crime spikes, praise the department’s efforts to use data to guide its policing, and urge that a police contract be signed (the city and the department have been at an impasse for six years); the Office of Unified Communications will hear about unsatisfactory 911 call response times; testimony for the Department of Health will note the ANC’s positive experiences with rodent control and recommend additional resources for addressing the city-wide rodent problem; testimony for DC Public Schools will address the still-unfulfilled Ward 6 middle school plan and reduce the student-teacher ratio; the Office of ANCs will be urged to consider additional budget allocation for ANCs that don’t have City-provided office space; testimony to the Department of Human Services will inquire as to whether the city is making investments that will lead to the eventual closing of DC General while giving the homeless a new place to go. The Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, and the Office of the Auditor will also receive testimony from ANC 6B. Input for Mayor Gray’s budget priorities will include a citywide focus on schools, public safety, equitable development incentives, and improvement of aging infrastructure. It will also note local concerns about the Eastern Market Metro Plaza, with particular recommendations for the rat abatement plan that includes replacing trash cans, removing rodent-friendly vegetation, and re-landscaping three planting beds that allow rats to burrow.

Alcohol Beverage Licensing Committee Grants Committee Contact 6C05@anc.dc.gov First Tuesday, 7 pm. Contact (202) 997-6662 Transportation and Public Space Committee Planning, Zoning, and First Thursday, 7 pm. Environment Committee Contact (202) 641-4264 First Wednesday, 7 pm. Contact zoning@eckenwiler.org

Transportation Committee Discussion Most of the Transportation Committee discussion centered around discussion of the Committee’s January 17th vote to change a request for a stop sign at the northwest corner (for southbound traffic) of 8th and D Streets SE to a request that DDOT the feasibility of installing one—the difference lies in requesting the sign straight up versus outlining concerns and asking DDOT to decide whether one is necessary. At the ANC meeting, Commissioner Pate moved to change back to an outright request; a request for a stop sign on the southeast corner was not made because of concerns that traffic would back out into Pennsylvania Avenue SE. Pate pressed for the amendment because the intersection has a history of accidents and is dangerous for pedestrians—one was hit on December 8th of last year. “I encourage you to be as aggressive as possible,” said one Ward 6 resident. “I worry that someone, a child, is going to be run over at that stop sign, and I would be [unhappy] if there isn’t action from this group that could have prevented this.”

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{capitol streets / anc news}

Commissioners Oldenburg and Garrison, however, did not see asking for the stop sign as the best course of action. They noted that a stop sign on one side of the street but not the other could lead to pedestrians seeing a stopped car in the southbound lane and thinking it was safe to walk while not knowing cars going north didn’t have a stop sign, as well as that DDOT “does not respond well to demands.” “This is not an argument made by traffic engineers,” said Oldenburg. “The right approach is to go to DDOT and explain what the problem is. I supported what the committee recommended, that DDOT do a study.” “[There is a larger] 8th Street issue involving all of those intersections,” said Garrison, who supported in inquiry into the feasibility of a stop light rather than sign. “They’re all dangerous. I’ve been involved in issues at all of those intersections. There’s a lot more that needs to be done than a stop sign.” Many, however, feel that a stop sign would be a step would mean progress. “There’s a cost to inaction here,” said another resident. “If one stop sign isn’t the right solution, it’s at least a step in the right direction.” The amendment to ask DDOT for the stop sign passed 6-2, with Garrison and Oldenburg opposing. The Commission also unanimously approved testimony for the Department of Transportation oversight hearing that outlines struggles with DDOT over performance-based parking north of Pennsylvania Avenue, DDOT’s reluctance to broaden a study on Barney Circle, and continued problems with transparency and response.

Eastern Market Report The Commission approved recommendations for an Eastern Market Report that includes more parking for vendors during Sunday farmers markets, doing away with metered parking on Saturdays at Seward Square, renting the building’s basement storage space to vendors, seeking out satellite parking, and petitioning DwOT for special parking permits for market participants.

Appointment/Renewal of Resident Members to Committees: The Commission approved and renewed resident members to its ABC, Planning and Zoning, and Transportation committees and its Hill East and Outreach and Constituent Services task forces. Committee and task force chairs appoint resident members. Committees may have only one resident member per single member district while task forces can have multiple members from the same single member district. The appointees were approved in block.

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ANC 6B’s March meeting is on Tuesday, March 11th at 7 p.m. at the Hill Center (921 Pennsylvania Avenue SE). u

ANC 6C

by Charnice A. Milton

Liquor License Protests During the February 18 meeting , the Commission gave updates from some outstanding liquor license protests. In the case of Romeo and Juliet, ANC Chair Karen Writ (6C01) announced that the Commission received its proposed operation hours for the sidewalk portion (11 p.m. on weeknights; midnight on weekends). During the Treasurer’s report, Commissioner Tony Goodman (6C06) discussed the Commission’s legal strategy against Ibiza Nightclub. Although the ANC voted to allocate up to $2,000 toward legal fees, it will share their lawyer with their fellow protestors. The mediation was scheduled for February 21. Finally, Commissioner Mark Kazmierczak (6C05) discussed the Tru Orleans case. In October, the Commission withdrew its protest against the restaurant and signed a settlement agreement; under this agreement, Tru Orleans must enclose its second floor, reduce its patio hours, actively make sure the patrons respect the surrounding neighborhood, and get rid of its live entertainment. Recently, the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board approved the agreement with one change: the Commission cannot ask the restaurant to get rid of its entertainment endorsement. The reason for the delay was that Commissioner Kazmierczak wanted clarification for the statement barring live entertainment.

Safety Concerns on 2nd Street During the Transportation and Public Space report, committee chair Joe McCann discussed traffic concerns along Second Street, particularly at E, F, and G Streets. As a part of its new Street Safe program, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) installed a stop sign camera on the corner of Second and G. The location was picked possibly because it was close to a school; however, the community feels that there are more problems at all three intersections, with Second and F being the worse. The committee recommended sending a letter to MPD, asking them to move the stop sign camera to Second and F to catch northbound traffic. They also recommended sending a letter to the DC Department of Transportation (DDOT) requesting signage on all

three intersections warning drivers of camera enforcement. The Commission unanimously voted 5-0 to adopt both recommendations.

H Street Corridor The Transportation and Public Committee plans to invite a DDOT representative to address transportation issues along the H Street corridor during the March meeting. Commissioner Scott Price (6C03) stated that original DC Streetcar study area covers a quarter-mile of the corridor; with a large amount of space, he raised questions about changes to loading zones, which would redirect commercial traffic in areas where it is prohibited. He also believes there are other issues, like parking and traffic intensity, that are understudied, with no plan of action. To that end, Commissioner Price spoke to residents in Boston and ANC 6B about their experiences living close to a commercial strip. In terms of ANC 6B, the commercial strip did not performed as well as expected. He hopes that the DDOT representative would explain how the new streetcar system will impact residents and how it will deal with that impact.

DCRA Issues Commissioner Mark Eckenwiler (6C04), expressed concern over the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs’ (DCRA) mishandling of building permit applications and inspections. He explained that DCRA approved applications that are not up to building or zoning codes, then failed to respond to those problems. Commissioner Kazmierczak gave an example a project at 507 K Street, which he described as a complete gut job and redo. While the project was dormant for years, work began again during the summer. When the Planning, Zoning, and Environment Committee found at least 20 violations, they asked DCRA for an inspection; DCRA agreed, but did not send an inspector. Later, DCRA stated that the project did not fit the original building plans and they would ask the owners to alter them. However, DCRA did not address the violations. Commissioner Kazmierczak motioned to send letters as soon as possible to Zoning Administrator Matt Legrant and the DCRA director expressing concerns about 507 K Street and systematic issues with the plan review process. Commissioner Price agreed, but also suggested coordinating with Gottlieb Simon, executive director of the Office of Advisory Neighborhood Commissions, to see if other ANCs have similar problems with DCRA. The Commission voted unanimously to adopt the amended motion.

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March 2014 H 67

Other News •

•

The Commission approved new liquor license applications for DC Harvest (517 H Street) and Admiral on the Bay (444 North Capitol Street). Commissioner Goodman announced that DDOT will hold a public meeting for the Florida Avenue study in March. At a recent preview meeting, he and McCann were pleased to see that their suggested area, a portion of Sixth Street, located between K and Florida, was included in the study. While DC Streetcar plans to begin passenger service this spring, the next phase involves receiving the State Safety Oversight’s approval. After a 30-day turnaround, service should begin. In the meantime, DC Streetcar working on a fee structure for fares. The next ANC 6C meeting is March 12, 2014.

ANC 6D by Roberta Weiner

The Wharf Construction is About to Get Under Way Hoffman-Madison Marquette, the developers of the massive Wharf project that over the next five years will radically alter the Southwest waterfront, came before the Commission with a work plan outline that contains dates and projects, beginning with a formal groundbreaking at the end of March—a specific date yet to be announced. The work will begin at the west end of the project with the demolition of the buildings currently housing Philips, Jenny’s and the Capitol Yacht Club, as well as the now-empty club building and the former Kastle’s stadium. A section of the Gangplank Marina’s docks will be demolished and replaced with new docks for the Capitol Yacht Club. Pedestrian, bicycle and vehicular routes on Maine Avenue will be rerouted, as the utilities under the street are relocated, and Water Street is closed. Early in the process, the parking lot at the Fish Market will be reconstructed to be used for the construction. Meanwhile…Phillips and the Channel Inn will be vacated by May, but Jenny’s is temporarily moving into the Channel Inn (and says, to the relief of many Channel Inn regulars, that it will start serving breakfast), along with the Capitol Yacht Club and the offices of Hoffman – Madison Marquette. The timeline and renderings of the work are available at wharfdc. com. More, much more, to come…

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More Progress on Randall School Project

New Project Aims to Make DC an Age-Friendly City

The Randall School museum/residential/retail project had a hearing at the Zoning Commission in early December at which a delay in a decision was requested so that the ANC and the developer could renegotiate and enhance the very comprehensive and complex community benefits agreement that had been originally negotiated with the Corcoran Gallery at the time they owned the building. The Commission, according to Commissioner Andy Litsky, granted the delay, and a new agreement is being negotiated by a committee of the ANC and the developers. Among the new benefits will be a $1000 per month contribution for arts programs at the newly reconstituted Randall Recreation Center. Also under discussion is a construction management agreement. According to Litsky, at the time of the meeting, the ANC was awaiting a proffer from the developers, after which it will be signed and forwarded to the Zoning Commission, bringing the project one step closer to the start of construction.

In 2007, the UN’s World Health Organization (WHO) developed the Age-Friendly Cities Initiative, and last year Mayor Gray appointed a Task Force to undertake the project, which has already undertaken a series of community meetings. Gail Kohn, the Task Force coordinator, presented the program’s objectives and sought volunteers for its next project, Block-byBlock Walks to assess every neighborhood for its agefriendliness. She said that the District’s older population is currently at 20% and, despite the influx of younger families, will continue to grow. Kohn explained that the WHO had established eight “domains” for judging age-friendliness”: outdoor space and buildings; transportation; housing; social participation; respect and social inclusion; civic participation and employment; communication and information; and, community and health services. After the District community meetings, two additional areas were added: emergency preparedness and resilience and elder abuse, neglect and fraud. Each domain has a set of objectives and criteria to monitor changes and improvements. The Block-by-Block Walks, according to Kohn, will consist of three person teams walking around a block and making careful notes about what exists and what is needed to meet the criteria. She pointed out that volunteers do not need to be older residents. For more information, or to get involved in the Age-Friendly Cities Initiative, contact Gail Kohn at gailkohn@dc.gov.

A New Beginning – Once Again –for Florida Rock …and this is a direct quote: “We are breaking ground very soon.” Years after the original PUD was filed, through many plans, a long-in-coming relocation of the gravel business to Buzzard Point, and many owners, the Florida Rock project, directly south of Nationals Park may finally be getting under way. John Begert, of MRP Residential came to the ANC to ask for support for a curb cut to enable deliveries and parking for the nine-story apartment building they are now planning as PHASE 1 of the massive long-term project. The building will feature ground floor retail, and plans are still to extend the promenade along the river. Without discussion, the Commission unanimously approved the request.

Commission Seeks Action on Metro Leak Commissioner Rachel Reilly Carroll moved a letter to Councilmember Muriel Bowser, DC’s representative to the WMATA Board, urging her to prod WMATA into repairing an on-going leak at the Waterfront Metro station that has been flooding the roof of the station and leaking onto the platform level with seemingly no attention from Metro. She also urged that the flooded area be cordoned off or marked with cones because of the danger to passengers. Commissioner Litsky suggested posting a photograph on YouTube. The letter was approved unanimously.

In Other Actions, the ANC... •

Learned that there are two candidates for the open seat—6D02—on the Commission (due to the resignation of Ed Kaminski)—Stacy Kloyd and Michael Stott, whose petitions are currently under review by the Board of Elections. If both candidates are approved, there will be an election at the March 10 ANC meeting, if only one passes muster, she or he will be seated at that meeting. • Supported a long list of races, none of which will make more than a minimal incursion into the ANC’s area. They include the Nike Women’s Half Marathon on April 27, the Race for Hope (for brain cancer) on May 4, the National Police Week 5 K on May 10, the Color Run, a 5 K at Nationals Park on July 12, and the Race for Every Child on September 14. • Approved the plan for the Cherry Blossom Festival’s Southwest Waterfront Fireworks Festival which will take place on Saturday, April 5 begin-

ning at 1 PM and culminating in the fireworks display at 8:30 PM. The festival will feature three stages of music, Japanese drummers, crafts, activities on the water, and a beer garden and food truck “rally.” • Heard a presentation from the new developers of a group of land parcels at what will be 1319 South Capitol Street, which is at M Street SE. Altus City LLC and Warring Property are planning a multi-family residential building with one- and two-bedroom apartments. The building, one block from the ballpark, will have affordable units. The next meeting of ANC 6D will be on Monday, March 10, 7 PM, at the DCRA Conference Room, 2nd Floor, 1100 4th Street SW. u

ANC 6E by Steve Holton

The Final Four Four development groups were on hand at the meeting to make a final pitch to the commission on their plans to develop the Northeast corner of Fifth and I St. NW. The groups had previously submitted their plans to the board and have since revised them with recommended changes from the community. The DC Deputy Mayor’s Office will make the final decision on which group will be selected to develop the parcel of land but the ANC 6E Commission wanted to rank each groups plan in order of preference that best fits the communities needs. The Akridge Group Proposal: Mixed use project consisting of 216 residential units with over 10,000 square feet of ground floor retail space and 1,500 square feet of space for community use. Akridge has pledged $2 million in park funding and have consulted different fresh market groups to see how they could incorporate a weekend farmers market onto the green space. The plan also calls for a daycare center and restaurant within the retail space and a two level parking garage. The CSG Urban Partners Proposal: CSG proposed a mixed use office building, which they think is needed to activate the area. There will be 10,000 square feet of retail space with 2,500 square feet of it devoted to a YMCA daycare facility. CSG has also dedicated a space for the community to use on the weekends to teach cooking and art classes. With $2.5 million committed to park funding, CSG has designed three parks within the proposal. They also plan to find a local artist who will provide artwork on

and around the structure. The JBG Group Proposal: JBG proposed 300 residential units with 30 units being a part of affordable housing. There will be 14,000 square feet of ground floor retail space which will include 600 square feet of community meeting space. JBG has commitments from Yes! Organic Market and a coffee shop to utilize the retail space. They also made $5 million available for the affordable housing component, a park with bicycle space and a job fair training program. The Peebles Corporation Proposal: The Peebles plan calls for a hotel that will provide over 400 full time jobs. The plan aims to raise property value and bring more life and activity to the area. At least $2 million will be reserved for park funding and the Peebles representative stated that the hotel will not create more parking problems since most of the patrons will use a taxi as a mode of transportation. The hotel will also feature a ballroom and meeting space available to the community at a discounted rate. Before voting on each of the four proposals the board extended their gratitude to the groups for incorporating community needs within their plans and applauded ANC 6E05 Commissioner Marge Maceda for her efforts in working with the firms. “Each proposal has unique features and the chosen one will be an amenity to the area. This will be a very tough choice,” said Maceda. After a close vote, CSG and Akridge tied for the most preferred development proposal with Peebles coming in at second and JBG at third. A letter will be sent to the Deputy Mayors Office expressing the order of their support of the aforementioned plans. “The final decision will be made by the Deputy Mayor’s Office. The role of the ANC 6E Commission is only to advise,” said ANC 6E01 Chairman Alexander Padro.

A New Design

Historic Site Development

Other Topics Of Note

A representative from the National Park Service (NPS) was on hand to update the board on the developments of the Carter G. Woodson National Historic Site located at 1538 Ninth St. NW. The site originally served as the headquarters for the National Association for the Study of African American Life and History. The NPS is in the process of removing hazardous waste such as mold and asbestos. Bracing has also been placed within parts of the structure to prevent it from collapsing. A project has been proposed to completely restore the historic site and create a visitors center to purchase books and watch film. The project may take up to three years and will cost close to $12 million to complete it. With only $7 million in committed funds, the NPS is looking for additional funding through private organizations and the federal government.

The BlackRock Holdings group requested the boards support for a Historical Preservation Review Design for a condominium development to a building located at 415 M St. NW that was built during the Civil War period. The plan calls for turning a single family home into six separate condominiums and to construct a new facade for the building. The facade will have a modern glassy look and there were mixed emotions on that topic at the meeting between the board and meeting attendees. Some residents were concerned that the new facade would not fit in with the traditional neighborhood look while others felt that it was a good contrast to the block. The commission voted to not support the design when the group goes before the Historic Preservation Review Board but will urge the board’s staff to work with BlackRock to come up with a design that is more consistent and characteristic of the neighborhood.

Shaw Crime Report DCPD representatives spoke at the meeting and gave a monthly update on crime in the 6E area. Auto theft continues to go up and one officer urged everyone to not leave valuable belongings in your car and to switch up your parking locations. “Auto theft is a fast crime and the sound of a window breaking isn’t as loud as you think.”, said the DCPD representative. Adam Johnston, who is a member of the DCPD Vice Squad, spoke on violent crime and illegal drug activity. Officer Johnston’s unit is out to curb drug crime and urged everyone to contact him directly if they see suspicious activity rather than dialing 911. You can contact Officer Johnston by email at adam.johnston@dc.gov or his mobile number at (202) 515-2003.

•

The board voted in favor of supporting a Stipulated Liquor License for an outdoor beer garden at Dacha Beer Garden located at 923 Fifth St. NW on the contingent of Dacha representatives signing a voluntary agreement to work on noise issues. • The board voted in support of granting a one year extension to Equity Residential for zoning relief for a mixed use development project located at 455 I St. NW. • The ANC 6E board will meet again at 6:30 p.m. on March 4 at the Northwest One Library which is located at 155 L St. NW. Visit www.anc6e.org to view the ANC 6E newsletter. Follow on Twitter, @ANC6E, and Facebook by searching ANC6E. u

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“One-vowel shows”

Crossword Author: Myles Mellor • www.themecrosswords.com • www.mylesmellorconcepts.com

by Myles Mellor and Sally York 1. Delivery person? 4. One may sit for a master 9. Disabled 13. Shrek, for one 17. “Wheel of Fortune” request 18. Dawn goddess 19. Elite military unit 21. Cambodian currency 22. Report on the Kettles’ choice of entree 26. Having two contrasting forms 27. Civil War side 28. Blight 29. Come up 30. Mar, in a way 31. Debatable 32. Swelling 35. Floors 37. Clothing 41. Fa follower 44. Japanese taste type 46. Fancy marbles 47. Gibberish 48. Bonus furlough for exemplary soldiers? 53. Kind of column 54. Egg on 55. Having the most thorns 56. Japanese-American 58. “For ___ a jolly ...” 59. Dine at home 60. Coast Guard rank: Abbr. 61. Saint Sebastian, e.g. 65. Breakfast choice 67. 1967 Monkees song 70. ___-ski 71. Second-largest city in Papua New Guinea 72. Part of “the works” 74. Italian bread 77. Area for lease in some large shopping centers 80. Football’s Armstrong 81. Bad behavior in a bar parking lot? 85. Affirm 86. Bermuda, e.g. 87. Alchemical solvent 88. Blue hue

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89. Breaks down, in a way 90. Analyze 92. Additional 94. Dart 95. Book before Romans 98. Corrodes 102. Circle 106. Aqua ___ 108. Home remedy 110. Commercial dog-raiser’s motto? 113. Hires competition 114. All worked up 115. Spanish grocery 116. 1/100 of an afghani 117. “Anything ___?” 118. Hadron’s place 119. Dorm annoyance 120. 007, for one

Down:

1. Venomous snake 2. Way to walk 3. Algonquian tribe member 4. Insect stage 5. Kind of account 6. “I’m impressed!” 7. Construction site sight 8. Wore 9. Stop order? 10. Delta Center team 11. Hi-___ 12. Assume 13. Tolkien creatures 14. ___ cheque 15. Kind of admiral 16. Dresden’s river 18. Made sense 20. BLT sauces 23. Barely beat, with “out” 24. “If the ___ is concealed, it succeeds”: Ovid 25. After-tax amount 30. Friend of Pythias 31. Mandatory, in a way 33. German resort 34. Crèche trio 35. Dressing ingredient 36. ___-faced 37. Himalayan antelope

Look for this months answers at labyrinthgameshop.com 38. Cousin of a bassoon 39. Beauties 40. Kind of car 41. Backgammon piece 42. Yellow pigment 43. Fertile soil 45. Restless 46. Little ones 47. Kind of shark 49. Ben Jonson wrote one to himself 50. Ticket info, maybe 51. Australian export 52. Toy with a tail 57. Skewer 62. Affectedly creative 63. Abbr. after many a general’s name 64. Relating to a defunct ruler 65. Feed bag contents

66. A Moore 67. Location, in law 68. Raise abruptly 69. Glorify 70. Borders 71. Gospel writer 73. Hide-hair link 74. Codger 75. A fan of 76. Kuwaiti, e.g. 77. As recently as 78. Greek liqueurs 79. Certain horse race 82. Can. neighbor 83. Advanced degree? 84. ___ of Avila 90. Cover story? 91. Code word for “S”

93. Frilly collar 94. Swelter 95. Downed a sub, say 96. Atkins diet no-nos 97. Join securely 99. Measures 100. Get ready to drive 101. With sorrow 102. Formally surrender 103. Elliptical 104. Kennedy and Turner 105. Gaelic 106. Kill, in a way 107. Footnote word 108. Draft, maybe 109. Barely beat 111. “Mangia!” 112. Tokyo, once

Across:

{community life} E on DC

Poets, Pitchers And Catchers by E. Ethelbert Miller

he pitchers and catchers are heading to spring training this month. What are you doing? How do you get your life back in shape? Is this your first season or your last? At times I feel more like a pitcher than a poet. Looking for the right word can be as difficult as throwing the ball over the plate. My imagination is a curve ball I still struggle to control. April is National Poetry Month. Will I be ready? There are many good poets emerging in D.C. and across the country. Organizations like Cave Canem and Canto Mundo keep introducing new voices. This month Washington will host another Split This Rock Poetry Festival (March 27-30). It’s a wonderful event bringing together writers who are concerned not only with the shaping of language, but with the social and political issues we wrestle with in our society. The poets coming to our city this month are like pitchers and catchers. I see them as visionaries, as writers engaged in giving testimony and being witnesses. Every poet cannot play the same position. Every person who writes is not political, yet it’s difficult to see how anyone could ever deny the beauty of America’s past time. Is it baseball or poetry? And why do we write and play this game? Back in January the poet Amiri Baraka died. It was a major loss as controversial as Barry Bonds; Baraka changed the game of American literature. I met Baraka in the early 1970s and invited him to Washington on a number of occasions to read his work; once at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library, another time at the Folger Shakespeare Library. I sat with Baraka one afternoon in a small room on the campus of George Washington University where he was a writer-in-residence. It was like being in a dugout with Willie Mays or maybe Jackie Robinson. Baraka was the type of writer I wanted to be. I sat listening to him like it was jury duty and I had to understand the evidence of things seen and unseen. Each season of our lives we begin anew, hoping things will get better or just won’t get worse. We worry about our arms and legs as we grow older. We look over our shoulders at someone who might take our place on the team or simply in the line of life. Baseball is the poetry I’ll begin to memorize this month. I will begin to pay more attention to the Washington Nationals. What type of year will it be for this club? The Nats have a new manager. Please, I hope no one promises a trip to the World Series this year. Let’s just make the playoffs. Let’s not injure ourselves while stretching.

March is the month when managers hold those first press conferences. It’s a month when I want to hear a poem hit the center of a catcher’s mitt, exploding with the sounds of joy. Catch this one: Baseball Let me sit in the ball park cap turned backwards and praying for a rally. I need the sun and sweat to remind me how much I love the game, how each year it comes down to the last inning, the final out. – E. Ethelbert Miller u

Baseball game at old Griffith Stadium, Washington, D.C. – Griffith Stadium, where the Senators and the Redskins used to play, was located where Howard University Hospital currently stands. Courtesy of the Library of Congress

March 2014 H 71

{community life / strictly business}

Strictly Business:

Cutting The Red Tape to Work from Home by Miriam Savad

aving your own home-based business may seem ideal – a chance to do what you enjoy, be your own boss and simply have more control over your time. Yet in DC, the steps to be able to actually work out of your home are not the easiest to climb, let alone understand. And specifically for the many renters in the District, the time and energy needed to understand the process is often too great a start-up cost. On the website for the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA), there is a page about business licensing with some basic FAQs. One question familiar to this writer asks, “I’m employed but I do some freelance work on the side; do I need a Basic Business License? If you are conducting business in the District, are registered with the Office of Tax and Revenue to do business in the District, and are not otherwise licensed, you are required to have a Basic Business License.” This rather ambiguous answer is all too familiar for Rossana Espinoza. As the DC Small Business Coach/Trainer at the Latino Economic Development Center, a regional small business and economic development nonprofit, Espinoza assists entrepreneurs as they are starting their businesses. Sorting through information on the DCRA website and the subsequent phone calls to DCRA that sometimes results in conflicting information from staff, many aspiring entrepreneurs turn to her to guide them through the process. Yet, it’s only through trial and error that she herself has grown into an expert. The Small Business Resource Center, established in 2011 by the city, has been a good step forward in providing clearer answers and information to potential entrepreneurs, a crucial ally for Espinoza and her clients. As DCRA spokesperson Matt Orlins states, “The process for starting a home-based business as a renter

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should be a straightforward one. DCRA offers support to entrepreneurs through its Small Business Resource Center. Those interested in starting a business can set up a one-on-one appointment with the Resource Center, which will guide them through all the steps necessary to set up their new business. Business operators are also invited to call or email with individual questions. The Resource Center…has been helping small businesses successfully navigate the District’s processes for nearly three years.” Yet many residents remain unaware of this resource. When one DC resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, made the decision to leave a larger, shared business to work for himself, he did extensive research into taxes, permits and licenses. But all his time and research led him running in the opposite direction. He stated, “As far as I can tell, the process involves acquiring a certificate of occupancy. Getting that could require approval from one’s landlord, from neighbors, and from the zoning board…Requiring a certificate of occupancy for all businesses regardless of their type seems unnecessarily onerous, especially for very small businesses whose office might consist of one smart phone. That requirement alone stops me from even considering getting an official business license from the District.” After extensive digging and back-and-forth with DCRA, the process is surprisingly more straightforward than the above-mentioned DC resident believed. In actuality, a Certificate of Occupancy is a permit that a property owner, not renter, must obtain, which indicates that the use of the building conforms to zoning regulations and building code. DCRA states that the process has simplified and the forms have been changed in the past several years. A renter needs to only obtain one permit, which does not require a landlord’s permission. Orlins states, “Conducting business out of a home triggers a requirement to obtain a Home Occupa-

tion Permit (HOP) under the District’s zoning regulations. Home Occupation means an accessory or incidental use of a house or apartment by a homeowner or tenant who also lives in the residence. For example, consulting, web design, and other largely office-based functions would qualify.” In Espinoza’s experience, she finds that most potential entrepreneurs stop the process after incorporating. The initial step of incorporating is relatively straightforward, but once they discover the length and complexity of the rest of the process, and that obtaining the business license is the most difficult component, their plans unravel. She explains that a caterer, for example, could be home-based, but would require a commercial kitchen, inspections, a clean hands form, etc. – costly obstacles that discourage potential caterers to proceed. In fact, despite the fines, some food vendors have chosen to continue operating illegally by selling food on the street rather than obtain the appropriate permits and licenses. After some time doing freelance work in digital media, a DC couple, who also wish to remain anonymous, decided to pursue a more consistent revenue stream and form a business. After obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN), attending workshops from several local technical assistance providers and meeting with a pro bono attorney, it was still a long and slow process to become an LLC. As renters in a group house, they also believed that obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy was necessary but nearly impossible, requiring a letter of permission from the landlord. With the encouragement of their attorney, and no foreseeable repercussions, they also opted out of obtaining a business license. Small changes could, at a minimum, help to reduce the confusion around the process and make the steps clearer for potential entrepreneurs. As Tim Flanagan, Executive Director of

the Washington Area Community Investment Fund, points out, some progress has been made. “You have to hand it to [DCRA] Director Majett – he and his management team are trying to make things easier for small businesses. The regulations didn’t get this complicated overnight, and they won’t be completely simplified overnight. The DCRA management team has to keep making progress – you can only eat a dinosaur one bite at a time.” So DCRA, here are my three simple suggestions to make the process more transparent: 1. Remove any outdated forms that are searchable through Google or on the DCRA website, 2. Establish a more detailed, online checklist that spells out the steps, fees and forms needed for home-based businesses, and 3. Broaden the outreach of the Small Business Resource Center, include hours on its website and offer the website in multiple languages. For readers interested in learning more about the DC Small Business Resource Center visit http://dcbiz. ecenterdirect.com/, and to provide feedback to DCRA visit grade.dc.gov.

Thomas Jenkins & Company Certified Public Accountants Corporation, Partnership, Trust, Individual Income Tax & Financial Planning

202-547-9004

316 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Suite 402 Washington, DC 20003

Miriam Savad is an activist for community economic empowerment living in Washington, DC. Strictly Business is a column for small businesses in Washington, DC, examining individual cases and exploring how the city could be more small business friendly. u

March 2014 H 73

{community life / reports}

Citizen Reporters Have the Write Stuff Local Bloggers Cover Our Neighborhoods

ometimes it’s hard to keep up with all of the changes going on in our city. Even with DC’s many news outlets, information can get lost in the shuffle. That’s where citizen reporters come in: residents who have taken the initiative to write about events and issues happening in their neighborhoods as a public service. And who better to report what goes on in our own backyards? Coming from all walks of life, here’s a look of some of the community’s hottest citizen reporters.

Will Rich SouthwestQuadrant.Blogspot.com Back in 2008, Southwest resident Will Rich looked around at his blossoming community and thought that others would be interested in the change that was about to occur as much as he was. With complementary interests –Rich is vice president at Delta Associates, a real estate consulting firm and he has a love for writing – the SouthwestQuadrant.blogspot.com was born. “Some people I know didn’t even realize that there was a neighborhood down here. They thought it was all federal buildings and highways,” explained the New Jersey native. “I want readers to know more about the neighborhood. The architecture is different here, and we have access to all the urban amenities you could want, but the neighborhood feels somewhat suburban.” Rich said some of the biggest stories he has covered are the wharf project, which will be transformative for Southwest as it will give residents direct access to the waterfront, and the construction of Safeway and the reopening of 4th Street, SW by the Waterfront Metro. Rich has lived in DC since 1996 and has been in Southwest since 2002. He said that he is

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by Denise Romano lucky enough to “turn a hobby into almost a job. When I started to blog, it opened doors for me.” He also regularly writes for local papers, including the South By West column in the Hill Rag. Rich’s favorite establishment in Southwest is Cantina Marina on the Potomac and their “awesome sunsets.” He also enjoys bowling, shuffleboard, ski ball and bocce ball. Rich ran his first half marathon last November in Richmond. He also serves as secretary of the board of directors of the Near SE/SW Community Benefits Coordinating Council, a local non-profit. “I really enjoy writing about something I am passionate about, my home,” he says.

Jacqueline Dupree JDLand.com Rich was inspired by one of DC’s most prolific bloggers: JD Land, known in real life as Jacqueline Dupree. For the past 11 years, Dupree has been creating a visual history of the changes going on in the area between the Southeast Freeway and the Anacostia River. She and her husband live near Garfield Park, just north of the freeway, and as plans for development were announced, and the first of 170 buildings began to be demolished, she had the presence of mind to begin documenting this incredible transformation. She started the project in earnest in January 2003, a year and a half before the location of the new baseball stadium was announced. “It was all about the pictures, it was never about ‘Oh I want to blog.’ I wanted pictures of the neighborhood before it changed,” Dupree explained. Then Dupree had a major change in her life that is making her reconsider the direction of her blog. Her mother became very sick and succumbed to an illness, causing her to suspend JD

Land in all of 2012 and most of 2013. “I am trying to find my way and decide exactly what I want to be doing. What’s the best use of my time in a world where now everyone is on Facebook and Twitter,” Dupree said. “Now I kind of foresee it being more about development…and being a little less focused on being first and breaking news although that really is my preference,” Dupree explained. “Eleven years on this is still a long time and you have to search for what still motivates you. It has to keep me happy at this point. Now I am just coming up for air and seeing where it will go.” As a history major, Dupree said that she would still like to keep an account of the changing area visually with photos. “When you have nearly 170 buildings demolished in a neighborhood in six or seven years, that’s a lot of change,” she said. With her deep ties to Capitol Hill – her parents met there and she and her husband have lived there for over two decades – it is likely that Dupree will keep up her great service. “It has been quite a trip,” Dupree concluded.

Larry Janezich CapitolHillCorner.org One of DC’s foremost bloggers is Larry Janezich, who has been running CapitolHillCorner. org since late 2010. Janezich has lived on Capitol Hill since 1966. He retired in 2005 after working for decades with journalists as a staff member of the Senate Radio and Television Gallery. He began to get involved with his Advisory Neighborhood Commission and started the blog in connection with issues that arose during ANC meetings. “I cover activities of ANC6B. One of the biggest issues is the Hine development,” Janezich said, adding that he covers activities

of the Eastern Market Community Advisory Committee, the Capitol Hill Restoration Society and economic developments in the community in general. “In many respects, my blog is an extension of my professional life, but now my clientele is broader and members of the community, rather than members of the community of journalists who work in Washington,” he said. Capitol Hill Corner also covers the opening of new restaurants and businesses. Janezich said that although those stories have a “public relations edge,” they are still news. “It’s news when something new happens. I am not interested in covering things that someone else already wrote about,” he said. “I hope by distributing information it will encourage people to participate more in the community. It’s disappointing to me to see minimal interest taken in the lower level of community government, the ANC. We have a lot of vibrant local political organizations, but they rely upon local support and community knowledge.” “Many newer residents who come to Capitol Hill have busy professional lives and children, so they don’t always have time to attend meetings,” Janezich said. “My blog is intended to rectify that, and give them an opportunity to follow community events without having to sacrifice too much time. I find it amazing to see ANC commissioners who make the time even though they have young children.” In his spare time, Janezich is an artist, working with collage and assemblage. Some of his works were featured at a show at The Fridge in January, 2013. “I find reporting on Capitol Hill Corner very rewarding because I take

pride in staying engaged and raising the profile of neighborhood issues,” Janezich said of his blogging experience.

Elise Bernard FrozenTropics.Blogspot.com Another veteran blogger is Elise Bernard, who has been running FrozenTropics.Blogspot.com,covering the H Street corridor since 2005. She said that she started the site because “there wasn’t a lot of information on H Street, especially Trinidad, when I first moved here. I was frustrated and wanted to write about something that I would be interested in.” Bernard, who is a lawyer by day, moved to DC in August, 2001. She hails from Tulsa, Oklahoma and went to college in Iowa. She has lived in Trinidad since then, purchasing her home in 2003. She said that the things readers get most “excited” about are new developments, such as new grocery stores and businesses. But Bernard has also covered more serious issues, such as the tragic death of Michael Kingsbury, a local autistic boy. Bernard sees her blog as a place for people to connect. “It’s important to have a place for neighbors help spread the word [on important issues]. I think Twitter is a new interesting thing in terms of people connecting, but back when I started the blog it wasn’t really an option,” she explained. “This is a way to write about things I am interested in and give my take on the neighborhood.” u

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{community life / profile}

Speak Out, Girlfriend!

Terry Nicoletti Takes the Fear Out of Public Speaking

s the idea of schmoozing at a networking event or happy hour a nightmare for you? Does small talk make you want to hide under a blanket? Southwest resident and former teaching nun Terry Nicholetti has a solution for you. Her still evolving, seven step program, Speak Out, Girlfriend!, is giving women “and a few good men” the tools and skills to overcome their fear of not just public speaking, but speaking in a public setting, as well as suppressing any anxieties one may have about themselves. Nicholetti has been coaching clients and holding classes since last June and sends out a newsletter every other week to about 900 people, with tips on how to overcome this obstacle. She is also available for speaking engagements and is a member of National Speakers Association. “There are lots of people who teach public speaking skills, but you need a mindset, where the truth of who you really are is,” Nicholetti explained. “Underneath all our fears and challenges, we all have the spark of the divine, or a spirit or soul, or Buddha or nature, whatever you want to call it. It’s there. But to become mindful and present with ourselves and take those negative beliefs and work with them is key.” Nicholetti noted that progress is not linear. “It’s not ‘Take my program and you will never be afraid again.’ It’s ‘Take my program and you will learn powerful tools and skills so when the fear comes, you will be able to use them and access your true self and bring her out into the open,” she explained. “You will be able to participate in activities that you may have avoided to grow your business or increase the richness in your life. Fear limits you…and there are tools that we can learn so that, regardless of the fear, we can expand our lives, community, business and professional success. It’s a lifelong journey and too many people give up.” And Nicholetti knows a thing or two about giving up. The spunky businesswoman grew up in an alcoholic household on Long Island. She said that her “parents did their best but there were

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Terry Nicholetti can take thepain out of public speaking. Photo: Denise Romano

challenges.” After spending some of her childhood in Hawaii and Puerto Rico due to her father’s job, she joined a convent in Connecticut when she turned 18. “The nuns were always nice to me, so in my teenage brain, I thought it would be a safe place,” Nicholetti recalled. But she only remained for five years, leaving the convent in 1968. Nicholetti said that those five years had a “really big impact” on her professional life. “In the convent, our self-esteem as professionals got trashed. They told us that we would get a full education before we went out to teach, but there was a shortage of nuns, so I was sent out to teach at age 20, without any guidance, mentoring or training,” she explained. Being a perfectionist, this caused Nicholetti to have a nervous breakdown and a “deep seeded fear that I would never be good at anything professionally.”

by Denise Romano

For years, she worked on several projects, including writing a children’s book, “NoraLee’s Adventures of Planet Ifwee” in 1999 and a book for adults about size acceptance in 1993 and acting in a one-woman- show, “The Story of Bessie Bluefield” at the Jewish Museum of Maryland. But Nicholetti’s transforming moment happened at the Smithsonian Museum, after looking at an exhibit, “The American Nun,” documenting life over several centuries – including the 1960’s. Nicholetti said that the exhibit brought her to tears. It read, “There was such a shortage of nuns in the 1960’s that the church sent out many young women without the training or guidance, much to the detriment of those young women and children they were trying to teach.” “I just stood there sobbing, thinking, ‘Oh my God, somebody got it. Somebody realized that happened to us,’” she recalled. “The positive thing about that whole experience is that it brought all of my internal fears to the surface.” After decades of therapy and self-evaluation, Nicholetti realized that there was one thing she was never afraid of: speaking in public. “It came to me that I could help business owners, entrepreneurs and neighbors become more confident speaking out and they can use that important tool for their success,” she explained. Formerly called Speak Out, Women in Business, Speak Out, Girlfriend! was born. Nicholetti said she not only does what she does to help other professionals, but to be a role model for her three granddaughters, great granddaughter and great grandson. “I am trying to model for them what life can be when we commit to accessing our truest selves, working through our fears and connecting with those that we love, are working with and in our communities,” she concluded. For more information on any of Nicholetti’s endeavors and her program, visit SpeakOutGirlfriend.com u

{community life / @ your service}

@ Your Service Do You Know the Way to Feng Shui? Vickie Menendez, owner of Feng Shui Concepts, helps her clients create peaceful homes and positive workspaces. With over 30 years of experience as an interior designer, Menendez provides a variety of services including residential, commercial and construction consultation, home staging and even space clearing, a process that gets rid of negative energies in a previously occupied home. Much of Menendez’s approach is based on the concept of Feng Shui, a philosophy focused on creating harmony between people, their environment and the attendant energies. When working with clients, Menendez helps them adjust their homes based on what areas of their lives need fine-tuning, such as their health, their family or their career. “You can support those things by looking at your surroundings and seeing if there are any blocks in your home where the energy is stagnant or flowing too fast,” Menendez explained. For clients who are building or renovating a home, Menendez will not only help them design the space, but she’ll also examine architectural drawings and lists of materials to be used to ensure the finished product meets the client’s vision. “I look at the plans for your renovation and see if there are any pitfalls that should be uncovered before getting into the project too far that you can’t make changes,” Menendez explained. “I help the customer see beyond the drawing,” Menendez said. Contact Vickie Menendez of Feng Shui Concepts by calling 703-8552989 or by emailing fengshuiconcepts@yahoo.com.

Clothing Worthy of the Catwalk Clothing designer Kim Schalk thinks that Capitol Hill is more stylish even than uber-hip Brooklyn and filled with “the coolest customers a girl can have.” Inspired to create accessible, functional, beautiful clothing for DC women, Schalk’s clothes are produced solely in the United States. This fashion-forward businesswoman prides herself on being the only women’s clothing designer in DC with the capability to offer both wholesale and retail. “Her simple constructions always exude sophistication and include details that make each piece special,” loyal customer Katherine Limon said.

by Ellen Boomer

“I provide an innovative design aesthetic and the price point is sustainable,” Schalk said. Many of her pieces include recycled, vintage or re-purposed materials, such as leather or even curtain fabric. “I find her designs unique and elegant, and I feel strong and chic when I wear them,” professional photographer Elizabeth Dranitzke shared. While many of Schalk’s customers have an artistic bent, all of them have a brave fashion sense and a contemporary style. Schalk encourages her customers to try pieces they wouldn’t pick out for themselves. Schalk enjoys mentoring other designers, offering advice about where to buy fabric or how to run a business. “My customers wear their clothes and don’t let their clothes wear them,” Schalk said. Look for a pop-up shop in Homebody sometime this spring. Contact Kim Schalk (kimschalk.com) by emailing kimmyschalk@cox.net or by calling 703-622-8176.

Spring Cleaning Maid Easy MaidPro Capitol Hill has reasons to celebrate as this woman-owned business is marking 10 years of cleaning Capitol Hill homes. “Cleaning someone’s house is taking somebody’s headache away,” owner Alka Patel said. For busy Hill residents, MaidPro can be the difference between spending hours indoors, cleaning what’s grown between the bathroom tiles or enjoying an afternoon admiring what’s blooming outside. With their 49-point checklist, which includes wiping fingerprints off doorframes and dusting lampshades, MaidPro cleans top to bottom and everywhere in between. “The 49-item list they use is perfect because they don’t miss anything… and it gives MaidPro an edge,” Ricki Peltzman, owner of the boutique Upstairs on 7th, said. Each employee completes an extensive cleaning and safety training program, undergoes a full background check and is fully bonded and insured. The same one or two cleaners will be assigned to a particular house to provide a more personalized service, with equally skilled replacements at the ready if their regular cleaner calls out sick. Instead of paper towels, MaidPro uses color-coded microfiber cleaning cloths for each room to avoid sanitary issues like spreading bathroom germs to the kitchen. MaidPro provides free estimates over the phone and will work with clients to customize their house cleaning as much as possible. In addition, MaidPro offers move-in and move-out cleaning services. After months of snow and road salt getting tracked indoors, why not let MaidPro do your spring-cleaning so you can actually enjoy spring?

Contact MaidPro Capitol Hill (www.maidpro.com/CapitolHill) at 1100 H Street NE, 2nd Floor, Washington, DC 20003, by emailing estimatesch@maidpro.com or by calling 202-399-3090. u

March 2014 H 77

{community life / south by west}

South by West

Wharf Groundbreaking Set for March

by William Rich

offman-Madison Waterfront announced at the February Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6D meeting that they will hold a groundbreaking ceremony sometime in late March for phase one of The Wharf. Phase one includes parcels 2, 3, 4, 5, 11, and the waterfront park, which goes from west of 9th Street, SW to 7th Street, SW and then skips to St. Augustine’s at 6th and Maine avenues, SW. Waterfront establishments including Phillips Flagship and the Channel Inn have been given official notice that they must close by May 13th. The Channel Inn will become the construction office for the builders and the Capital Yacht Club will be moving its operations there until their new building is completed. Jenny’s Asian Fusion may also reopen in a smaller space at the Channel Inn. Phillips Flagship will not be relocated to the Channel Inn, but has signed a lease in the neighborhood. Cantina Marina and the Maine Avenue Fish Market will remain open through construction of phase one, although the land side of the fish market will be cleaned up (aboveground utility poles will be relocated, etc.).

The Wharf development will transform the Southwest waterfront. Rendering courtesy of HoffmanMadison Waterfront

At the new St. Augustine’s Church on Parcel 11, there will be views of the church from M Street, SW and Maine Avenue, SW since it will be located at a prominent corner. There will be a soft curved edge in front of St. Augustine’s to complement the curvature of Arena Stage across the street. The twostory church will be approximately 15,000 square feet with the sanctuary located on the second floor offering views toward the Washington Monument. Also on the second floor will be classrooms and a library. On the ground floor, the entrance will lead Construction Timetable A lot next door to Camden South Capitol apartments is under contract and slated for an apartment building. Photo: William Rich to a vestibule that connects to classrooms and an An eight-foot fence and signage will soon all-purpose room, which will be available for comarrive at the waterfront. The construction promunity events, similar to how St. Augustine’s is now used for meetings. cess of phase one will last approximately 42 months with completion expected In turn, Hoffman-Madison Waterfront will build a 108-unit mid-rise conin late 2017. One of the first things to happen on the site will be the construcdo building adjacent to the new sanctuary, which will face the Tiber Island tion of a 50-space parking lot for the Maine Avenue Fish Market, followed by townhouses across 6th Street, SW. A portion of the units will be reserved for lane closures along portions of Maine Avenue, SW to allow the relocation of households earning up to 50% and 80% of Area Median Income (AMI). The utilities from Water Street and the construction of a new northbound turn lane asymmetry of the facade was designed to be similar to the Tiber Island townto the fish market. At the same time, the piers at Gangplank Marina will be houses. There will be a concrete base with four stories of wood frame construcdismantled. During this summer, more utility work will be done on Maine tion above. The penthouse level will be set back 12 feet from the lower floors Avenue, SW, Phillips Flagship will be demolished, and bulkhead demolition and will offer private terraces. A courtyard will be created on the second floor will occur. By the end of 2014, all utilities will be moved to Maine Avenue, SW with some green space and a fountain. In addition, there will be a green roof, and excavation will begin on the site. Vertical construction will be done by the but condo residents will not have access to the roof except for those with termiddle of 2016 with facade work and interiors completed by the fall of 2017. races on the penthouse level. It will take about 18 months to build both, which The first portion of phase one to deliver will be Parcel 11. By this sumplaces delivery around the beginning of 2016. mer, St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church in its current form will be no more. The building will be demolished and its congregation will move temporarily to the fellowship hall of Christ United Methodist Church at 4th and I streets, SW while construction begins on their new home. The church came to terms with Hoffman-Madison Waterfront to extend The Wharf development to St. Augustine’s, which is at the corner of 6th Street, SW and Maine Avenue, SW. In addition to a new sanctuary, St. Augustine’s will get an endowment.

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South Capitol Lot to Become Apartments Camden South Capitol apartments may soon get a new neighbor to its north. 1319 South Capitol Altus LLC (Altus Realty Partners) has the vacant lot and some of the adjacent row homes under contract, located across the street from Nationals Park on South Capitol Street, SW. It was

just six months ago when a permit was issued to build a parking lot on this site. Leasing at Camden South Capitol has been averaging about 20 units per month since opening last spring, which is encouraging news to Altus. They are in the initial stages of planning a rental apartment building on the site and are negotiating with the remaining property owners on the block to potentially increase the lot size. They are currently planning a 250,000 square-foot building which is allowable by-right with about 260 to 270 units and some ground floor retail. There will also be an affordable component due to inclusionary zoning requirements. The developers will need to come before the ANC once their plans are further along in order to get their support for any zoning approvals needed since the site is within the Capitol Overlay District. If some or all of the row homes become part of the development footprint, it is possible that they can be incorporated into the design of the new building. A recent example of where this has been done is 7th Flats at Progression Place in Shaw. There are so few older row homes in Southwest and their reuse as retail space (a dentist office currently occupies one of the row homes) could help bring some unique retailers to the area as the South Capitol Street, SW corridor gets revitalized in the coming years. William Rich is a blogger at Southwest…The Little Quadrant that Could (www.southwestquadrant.blogspot.com). u

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March 2014 H 79

{community life / h street life}

H Street Life

inally, we are beginning to see a reprieve from the snow, and cold temperatures of winter. As the mercury climbs, and the days grow longer, we are seeing more businesses opening on H Street NE. If the list below is any indication, we are looking at a very exciting spring.

Three Sports Bars Headed to H Street NE After years of no official sports bars opening on H Street NE, there are now three new ones hoping to set up shop here. The largest of the three is Sin Bin Sports Bar and Restaurant (1336 H Street NE). For the non-hockey fans out there, the sin bin is a nickname for the penalty box. Sin Bin will offer 200 indoor seats for patrons, with a total occupancy load of 400. They will also have a seasonal patio with seating for an additional 50. Expect a menu of burgers, appetizers, and sandwiches. Next up is Halftime Sports Bar at 1427 H Street NE. Notably, Halftime comes to us from the owner of another bar down the street known as the Elroy, 1423 H Street NE). The third, as yet

by Elise Bernard un-named sports bar is slated to go into the long vacant Micky’s space at 1362 H Street NE.

Foundry Combines Vintage Furniture & Menswear Along H Street Previously based on U Street NW, Foundry Home Furnishings recently relocated to the H Street NE Corridor. Their new space is significantly larger than the old one, and owner Yvette Freeman plans to take full advantage of that fact by adding a production space, as well as introducing a new vintage clothing shop called Foundry Threads. Foundry Threads will primarily feature men’s clothing, but will offer some women’s selections as well. The new 4,000 square foot space is in a carriage house (accessible through the alley) located behind 819 11th Street NE. According to Freeman, “as more condominium and apartment complexes deliver in the H Street corridor, the need for furniture and home accessories increases. Our move to a loftier showroom helps us display and showcase even more merchandise.” Frankly, I suspect current residents, along with her previously existing clientele, can provide an ample market in the mean time.

Christylez Bacon is a popular attraction at INTERSECTIONS. Photo courtesy of INTERSECTIONS

Clover Food Lab Considers an H Street NE Location The Boston based restaurant and food truck chain Clover Food Lab (http://www.cloverfoodlab. com) recently floated the idea of opening a location at 1110 H Street NE. The chain is known for its vegetarian fare, and its emphasis on the use of local and organic ingredients.

INTERSECTIONS Arts Festival is Back

Foundry Showroom by Kate Warren. Image courtesy of Foundry

80 H Hillrag.com

INTERSECTIONS Arts Festival (http://intersectionsdc.org) returns for a triumphant fifth year at the Atlas Performing Arts Center (http://atlasarts. org, 1333 H Street NE). The all-arts festival features over 100 groups strutting their stuff over an eight day period. The performances include dance, music, film, opera, theater, and more. Performers may be established professionals, emerging artists, community groups, or student artists. INTERSECTIONS offers a little something for arts fans of all ages, and interests. The INTERSECTIONS organizers strive “to connect the broad-

est possible audience with the most exciting new ways of making community-inspiring art.” You’ll find jazz, hip-hop, classical, and a ton of fusion works. Virtually all of the events take place at the Atlas Performing Arts Center. Many events are free or low cost. Though many events will likely appeal to a grown up audience, the festival also boasts plenty of offerings geared towards families, and younger budding arts enthusiasts.

Union Kitchen’s 2nd Location Adds to Culinary Scene in Ivy City In a bit of truly awesome news for both aspiring small food businesses in the District, and also for the gritty neighborhood of Ivy City, the small culinary business incubator Union Kitchen, 1110 Congress St, near 2nd & L NE) has announced plans to open a second location in Ivy City. Ivy City, an area that is primarily industrial (but with limited residential components), has gotten a bit of attention recently. It is home to New Columbia Distillers, 1832 Fenwick Street NE), who produce the popular (and tasty) Green Hat Gin that you can find in many local restaurants, bars, and liquor stores. Sample it in one of the signature cocktails at Boundary Road, 414 H Street NE). Typically it runs about $35 a bottle, but Trinidad’s Brother’s Liquor (1140 Florida Ave NE) sells it for $30. Atlas Brew Works, 2052 West Virginia Avenue NE Suite 102) also calls the neighborhood home. This local brewery produces a variety of craft beers, and recently hosted All Points West chamber orchestra as a special part of the Atlas Performing Arts Center’s, 1333 H Street NE) INTERSECTIONS arts festival. Right now, Union Kitchen offers a “low-cost, low-risk, full-service kitch-

en for local businesses to grow and establish their operations.” They strive to remove many of the barriers to entry, and growth, that many small businesses face. These barriers include the expense, and risk, of signing a long-term lease, purchasing equipment, and many more concerns. Union Kitchen streamlines the process by covering all operational costs for its members (such as trash collection, taxes, cleaning, ect.). The operation recently celebrated its first birthday. Union Kitchen’s current space is 7,300 square feet, and acts as a production space for 55 local vendors. The new space in Ivy City, should allow them to accommodate 70 additional members. One of Union Kitchen’s co-founders also recently told the Washington City Paper that the Ivy City location will include an event space, a café, and a market for vendors to sell good made on-site. They hope to open in late 2014.

Impala Cantina & Taqueria to Open in March? Though we’ve been teased before, the owners of Impala (1358 H Street NE) recently announced that they hope to open their doors sometime in March. Impala garnered much press a few years back when owner Troy Hickman and Erik Bruner-Yang (of Toki Underground) ran a summer pop up called Tacos Impala. Ever since that time, fans have been able to enjoy their Mexican offerings at various pop ups, as well as at a regular Taco Tuesday Night at the Pug, 1234 H Street NE). For more on what’s abuzz on and around H Street you can visit my blog http://frozentropics.blogspot.com. You can send me tips, or questions at elise.bernard@gmail.com. u

ART BY THE GLAZZ AND SEPIA SALON PROUDLY PRESENT Fundraiser for Becky’s Fund

The Key Project BENEFITTING BECKY’S FUND

Community Art & Hair Show March 15, 1 p.m. - 10 p.m. The H Street Gateway Community, Art by the Glazz,and Sepia Salon are excited to partner with Becky’s Fund in 2014 to produce The First Annual Key Project. The exhibition event will be all-day March 15, from 1 p.m. -10 p.m. which will include a youth hair show during the morning and adult Art & Hair Exhibition. We will also take time to highlight all partner businesses which is where your created masterpieces will be featured for purchase during the duration of The Key Project. GO TO www.sepaisalon.com or www.artbytheglazz.com to PURCHASE TICKETS

Sign up to below sites to paint a picture that will be featured at the event! www.artbytheglazz.com/KEY-PROJECT-ART-SCHEDULE.html http://m.sepiasalon.com/HAIR-EXHIBIT-REHEARSALS.html

March 2014 H 81

{community life / barracks row}

Spring Declared on Barracks Row

by Sharon Bosworth

n Wednesday, March 12, 2014 at 6:00 p.m. Barracks Row Main Street’s Annual Meeting celebration will be held to highlight the arrival Spring to the corridor as well the arrival of 13 new businesses in 2013. The party kicks off the season and includes tasting samples from many of our restaurants – those just opened or opening soon like Medium Rare, 515 Eighth St. SE; Café Kimchi, 751 Eighth St. SE (opened in January 2014 as Café Old Town but renamed Café Kimchi in February); and District Doughnuts, 749 Eighth St. SE (now under construction). Many well-established neighborhood eateries will also be participating. Plan to come by and toast the newcomers to the neighborhood. This year our hosts are Peter and Manelle Martino who just signed a lease at 731 Eighth St. SE where they plan to open their seventh area tea emporium, Capital Teas. Other locations are in Annapolis, Bethesda (both Wildwood and Bethesda Row), Fairfax, Dupont Circle and National Harbor. The Annual Meeting celebration will be held in the space that Sniffing Bar at Capital Teas, opening April 2014 at 731 8th St SE

will soon become their newest tea bar and boutique.

One Cup at A Time

Christina Kwon, owner, Café Kimchi, 751 8th St SE brings authentic Korean to the Row

82 H Hillrag.com

Manelle Martino was born into the tea business. Her great, great grandfather, Francis Van Reyk moved to Sri Lanka in the 1870’s to be a part of the burgeoning tea trade developing there. Mr. Reyk’s defining passion about tea continues to this dayManelle still sources some of their teas from the family’s original Sri Lankan tea estate. The mission of Capital Teas is “to educate people and inspire lives through the wonders of teas, one cup at a time.” Inside each store the Martino’s have designed a multi sensory tea excursion: there is a sniffing wall as well as multiple tea tasting stations. Many

of their stores feature tea bars and the Barracks Row store will continue that theme with a walk-up tea bar and tea tables in the adjacent courtyard patio. As with other Capitol Teas locations, they will feature nearly 100 types of loose tea, a variety of tea-ware and tea inspired treats.

Opening as Cherry Blossoms Bloom In the best entrepreneurial tradition the Martino’s experiment a bit with each new store. At their Barracks Row Capital Teas store they will serve a variety of quick selection, light foods as well as tea inspired desserts to go with their fine teas. Their recently developed organic bubble tea will also be a prime contender for repeat visitors. The boutique as well

Here Is What My Clients Are Saying...

as the website www.CapitalTeas.com will also feature Gift Certificates, Tea of the Month Club, sampler sets and tea ware. Capital Teas will likely open in April during Cherry Blossom Festival and bloom peak. At the mid-February deadline for this story the Unites States Park Service still had not settled on a cherry blossom bloom date. But considering the extreme weather it would be akin to reading tea leaves to pin Neal Gregory, President of Friends of the Southeast Library (FOSEL) stops by point a bloom date this eartree box surround near Southeast Library, reopening mid-March ly. There is however a Park Service “prediction”: peak charming restaurants. Should you want to atbloom could be April 6-10. However, don’t extend a parade this year contact the Public pect to see actual blossoms unless you check Affairs office 202-433-6660 or http://www.barthe park service website in the days before racks.marines.mil/Parades/GeneralInformayour visit: www.nps.gov/chbl/cherry-blossomtion.aspx . The new Public Affairs Officer at bloom.html. But, blossoms or no blossoms Marine Barracks Washington is Captain Dithe board of directors of the Cherry Blossom ann Rosenfeld who recently took over the post Festival has set the date for the 2014 Cherry formerly held by Captain John Norton (aka, Blossom Festival: March 20 - April 13, with the Captain Jack). Cherry Blossom Parade set to roll down Constitution Ave. on Saturday, April 12.

High Season Arrives – Parades and Baseball The elusive bloom peak is just one of the triggers of Barracks Row’s high season. As the blossoms begin to pop the Washington Nationals return from spring training for their first home game. The population of visitors to the Row on a home game day typically quadruples from normal levels. Then, in mid-May, when Marine Barracks Washington begins its Friday Night Parades, an extra thousand people, give or take, arrive on the Row looking for dinner and drinks. Over the past decade the United States Marine Corps has been a loyal promoter of the Row’s businesses. When the Marine Corps issues e-tickets to the weekly parade their note closes with a friendly suggestion to come early or stay late for dinner at one of the Row’s many

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Future Seasonal Color for 8th Street

The good news? Ever growing crowds turn up on the Row each year from March through December. The bad news? Our enthusiastic visitors trample plants in our unprotected tree boxes. But a solution may be at hand from the District Department of Transportation. As one of DC’s neighborhoods most affected by out-ofarea parking during Nationals games, Capitol Hill was promised a share of DDOT”s “performance parking” monies – a percentage of revenues collected from the new meters installed along streets near the ballpark. After six seasons of collecting from the new meters, there are now funds available to compensate nearby neighborhoods for the wear and tear of 81 Nationals home games each year. DDOT has requested a list of projects from many organizations in the affected areas, including Barracks Row. Should our

March 2014 H 83

Fagon Guide Photo Contest

Got A Great Photo of Life in Ward 6?

mail your photo to us for a chance to be published in this year’s Fagon Community Guide to Capitol Hill. We are looking for photos that reflect where and how we live: your son picking out fruit at H Street Market, people strolling our beautiful streets, a cat in sunning in a Victorian garden, eating oysters at Union Market, running the bases at National Park. Photos chosen for publication will be placed in a random drawing. The winner will win two nights at the Gaylord at National Harbor. Remaining entries will be published in the Guide. Rules: * Photos must be received by March 10. * No more than two photos per entry, with caption, photo credit and phone number. Photos must be high resolution (“original size” if phone pics).

Send photos to: guidephotos@hillrag.com 84 H Hillrag.com

Y A L P ! ! ! L BAL Spring Baseball & Softball Girls and Boys Ages 6-13 (14 for softball)

project be accepted we would be able to test tree box surrounds on sections of Barracks Row guaranteeing seasonal color from bulbs and annuals. The historic tree box surrounds on Eighth Street were removed and never replaced when the street was renovated in 2004. The replacement surrounds would be similar to the ones now in place on Seventh St. SE at Eastern Market, which were installed when the District renovated Eastern Market after the 2008 fire.

http://chlldc.org Opening Day April 5 Registration will close February 26 for the Majors division and March 12 for every other division, including softball.

Southeast Library Reopening Mid-March The Southeast Library, 403 7th St SE was closed suddenly in late 2013 because of a compromised water main under the building. Though the library building itself, one of two Carnegie Libraries in the District, has not been damaged, the water main issue has not yet been repaired. Scheduled to re-open in mid-February the reopening has now been moved to mid-March. The Southeast library figures prominently in Master Plans being considered by the Eastern Market Metro Park Task Force as they consider various options developed by the projectâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design team. The design study, sponsored by Barracks Row Main Street, aims to revitalize the Eastern Market Metro Park area, the six parcels of vacant, unkempt land on both sides of Pennsylvania Ave. SE between Seventh and Ninth St. SE. A preferred alternative design will be announced by the EMMP taskforce later in 2014. u

March 2014 H 85

Looking to Buy or Sell on the Hill? I want to be Your Agent!

Let s get together to review the market and design a winning strategy!

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605 Pennsylvania Avenue, S.E., Washington, D.C. 20003 Office: 202 547-3525 Cell: 202 369-7902 Email: dbranand@cbmove.com Web: www.deedeebranand.com

86 H Hillrag.com

{real estate} The Capitol Hill Residential Marketplace 2013 Wrap Up by Don Denton

s has the rest of Washington DC, Capitol Hill has wrapped up another great year. Average and median prices have continued to soar, the upper bracket market saw exceptional strength, inventory remained (and remains) extremely tight, our contiguous neighborhoods continued to blossom and significant infill projects poised to enter the marketplace in 2014. Here are the numbers. Single family settlements rose from 660 in 2012 to 758 n 2013. A 15% increase but still below the bumper year of 2000 when we hit 941 sales. Fresh out of a

March 2014 H 87

Your Neighbor On The Hill

“The road to success is not always straight; let me help you through the real estate maze to a happy and successful destination”

Deborah Charlton

Long and Foster Realtors Christie’s Great Estates

(202) 415-2117 (202) 944-8400 DC.DC@LongandFoster.com www.yourneighboronthehill.com 88 H Hillrag.com

recession in 2000, we had loads of inventory and lots of buyers. In 2013, we struggled with inventory, still had lots of buyers and significantly higher prices. If we had had double the inventory last year, we would have had double the number of sales. The demand remains that high! As I noted earlier, prices continued to rise in 2013. Median prices rose 8% from $610,000 to $657,000. Average sales prices were up 10% from $634,000 to $697,000. These numbers reflect a geographic area bordered by the Capitol on the west, the Anacostia on the south, along Benning Road to Florida Avenue on the east and north. If you just focus on the Capitol Hill historic district, then the average price is rapidly approaching $900,000 and H to Florida exceeds $500,000. The upper brackets on the Hill really got a jolt in 2013. The number of sales exceeding $500,000 hit an all time high of 591. This represents a 31% increase in the number of sales in this price range in 2013 over 2012. For properties over $1.0Million, a 59% increase. In 2014, we will see similar increases in prices. At this point there seems to be nothing in the way. Small developers are working all over the Hill significantly upgrading a home here and a multiunit there or converting a school or a vacant lot to homes for hundreds of new residents. Look at the

used car lot at the end of Pennsylvania Avenue SE and come back later this year and see the multiunit rental property rising from what has been an unsightly drag on that part of Capitol Hill for decades. Have you noticed lately that the ugly “trimmings” on the old hospital building at 8th and Mass. Ave. are coming down. That building will soon provide 140 rental units for many new Capitol Hill residents. What about the Edmonds school at 9th and D NE and the “huge” multiunit coming out of the ground in the 1400 block of Maryland Ave., NE. All of these projects, and many more, will be providing homes for hundreds of people looking to call our neighborhood home. As the population of the District continues to become younger and more affluent, the Capitol Hill neighborhood should continue to thrive. As this happens, our boundaries will continue to expand and our contiguous neighborhoods will continue to renovate and upgrade their housing stock (as we have done and continue to do). Brookland, Trinidad, Hillcrest and Anacostia are just a few of the neighborhoods that our newest homebuyers are looking to as a place to live and to raise their families. Don Denton, Branch Vice President, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. ddenton@cbmove.com ◆

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{real estate / changing hands}

Changing Hands Changing hands is a list of most residential sales in the District of Columbia from the previous month. A feature of every issue, this list, based on the MRIS, is provided courtesy of Don Denton, manager of the Coldwell Banker office on Capitol Hill. The list includes address, sales price and number of bedrooms.Close Price BR Neighborhood Fee Simple 16TH STREET HEIGHTS 1360 HAMILTON ST NW 1411 BUCHANAN ST NW 5619 COLORADO AVE NW 1336 JEFFERSON ST NW 1347 MONTAGUE ST NW 1303 ALLISON ST NW

ADAMS MORGAN 2292 CHAMPLAIN ST NW

$800,000 $715,000 $665,000 $625,000 $480,000 $635,000

4 5 8 4 4 5

$760,000

AMERICAN UNIVERSITY PARK 4432 WINDOM PL NW

ANACOSTIA

1928 NAYLOR RD SE 1710 U ST SE 1340 MORRIS RD SE 2310 NICHOLSON ST SE 2108 16TH ST SE 1637 R ST SE 1350 TALBERT TER SE

BERKLEY

2201 46TH ST NW 2000 48TH ST NW

BLOOMINGDALE 23 RANDOLPH PL NW

BRIGHTWOOD 6400 9TH ST NW 6201 14TH ST NW 5712 3RD PL NW 7448 7TH ST NW 817 TUCKERMAN ST NW 1348 RITTENHOUSE ST NW 6306 7TH ST NW 614 ROXBORO PL NW 855 VAN BUREN ST NW 428 PEABODY ST NW 823 TEWKESBURY PL NW 7217 8TH ST NW

BROOKLAND

1217 UPSHUR ST NE 3404 15TH ST NE 3008 12TH ST NE 1222 QUINCY ST NE 1346 MONROE ST NE 207 ASCOT PL NE 3009 7TH ST NE 2406 2ND ST NE 735 EMERSON ST NE 4612 SOUTH DAKOTA AVE NE 711 KEARNY ST NE 612 FARRAGUT PL NE 16 RHODE ISLAND AVE NE

BURLEITH 1802 35TH ST NW

90 H Hillrag.com

$1,015,000

$287,000 $279,500 $279,000 $269,000 $190,000 $185,000 $136,000

3 3 4 5 2 2 2

$1,715,000 $1,600,000

4 4

$685,000

$685,000 $585,000 $499,900 $480,000 $446,000 $439,000 $437,500 $430,000 $405,000 $399,999 $332,500 $800,000

4 3 4 3 3 2 3 3 3 3 2 4

$672,500 $650,750 $573,000 $560,000 $525,000 $499,000 $459,000 $382,500 $330,000 $322,000 $319,500 $250,000 $637,500

4 4 4 5 6 4 3 2 2 3 3 2 6

$895,000

CAPITOL HILL 120 3RD ST NE 337 F ST NE 1243 E ST NE 621 I ST SE 1440 G ST SE 433 12TH ST SE 501 KENTUCKY AVE SE 142 D ST SE 913 5TH ST SE 1344 L ST SE 1762 E ST NE 1427 E ST NE

CHEVY CHASE 3815 INGOMAR ST NW 3045 ABERFOYLE PL NW 6021 WESTERN AVE NW 4130 MILITARY RD NW

$1,200,000 $960,000 $880,000 $875,000 $875,000 $763,500 $725,000 $670,000 $510,000 $480,000 $370,000 $506,000 $2,440,000 $2,114,000 $1,650,000 $850,000

7 4 3 3 4 3 3 2 2 2 2 3 6 7 6 4

CHILLUM

115 MADISON ST NW 1 MISSOURI AVE NW 41 MILMARSON PL NW

CLEVELAND PARK 3635 ORDWAY ST NW 3529 QUEBEC ST NW

COLONIAL VILLAGE 1913 SUDBURY RD NW

COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 3821 14TH ST NW 1303 TAYLOR ST NW 758 MORTON ST NW 1472 OGDEN ST NW 3409 HOLMEAD PL NW 429 MANOR PL NW

$515,000 $385,000 $310,000

3 3 2

$1,500,000 $870,000

3 3

$699,000

$1,285,000 $750,000 $715,000 $679,000 $638,500 $630,000

4 4 3 3 3 3

MARCHING I N T O A S U P E R B S P RIN G M A RK E T! 3636 PARK PL NW 3625 11TH ST NW 1412 PARKWOOD PL NW 1011 OTIS PL NW 3320 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW 630 QUEBEC PL NW

$620,500 $610,000 $604,000 $541,299 $450,000 $837,500

CONGRESS HEIGHTS 96 BRANDYWINE PL SW 130 YUMA ST SE

$147,000 $80,000

CRESTWOOD 1855 UPSHUR ST NW 4512 ARGYLE TER NW 4348 BLAGDEN AVE NW

$960,000 $620,000 $532,000

DEANWOOD 5005 AMES ST NE 5115 F ST SE 720 49TH PL NE 3828 BLAINE ST NE 4409 HAYES ST NE 3910 CAPITOL ST NE 4407 SHERIFF RD NE 930 52ND ST NE 3967 AMES ST NE 3969 AMES ST NE 3902 AMES ST NE 203 63RD ST NE 313 59TH ST NE 1054 48TH ST NE 1052 48TH ST NE

$380,000 $303,000 $290,000 $260,000 $259,000 $255,000 $221,000 $219,777 $210,500 $162,500 $144,500 $90,000 $88,000 $74,900 $74,900

DUPONT 1824 R ST NW

$8,450,000

FAIRLAWN 1824 MINNESOTA AVE SE

$196,500

FORT DUPONT PARK 1688 FORT DUPONT ST SE 4328 CHAPLIN ST SE 3421 B ST SE 4025 D ST SE 4214 MASSACHUSETTS AVE SE

$265,500 $255,000 $155,000 $137,500 $120,000

FOXHALL RIDGE 4536 WESTHALL DR NW 4532 WESTHALL DR NW

$1,570,000 $1,500,000

GEORGETOWN 3265 N ST NW 3023 Q ST NW 3025 P ST NW 3225 N ST NW 1648 35TH ST NW 1239 31ST ST NW 1238 29TH ST NW

$4,200,000 $3,975,000 $3,200,000 $1,530,000 $1,450,000 $976,200 $930,000

GLOVER PARK 3859 BEECHER ST NW 3733 BENTON ST NW

$705,000 $609,000

H STREET 812 6TH ST NE

$645,000

HAWTHORNE 6901 WESTERN AVE NW

$1,075,000

HILL CREST 2916 S ST SE

$165,000

KALORAMA 2535 WATERSIDE DR NW

$950,000

3 3 4 4 4 4

S AY

R D DE N -5 U CT A TR N

4 3 3

E BL A IL W! A AV NO

1361 K Street unit 302, SE 1BR/1BA $255,000

Thought you could no longer afford Capitol Hill living? Here’s your chance for affordable luxury: Renovated condo home with top floor views, great southern light, bamboo floors, granite and stainless kitchen, marble bath, and smart layout just 2 blocks from groceries, restaurants, and Potomac Ave Metro! Own all this for less than you’ll pay in rent!

3 2 3 3 2 3 3 3 7 5 4 4 3 2

E BL A IL W! A AV NO

201 13th St. SE 2BR/2BA $500,000 It is THAT house you’ve been wondering about for years! Rarely available historic retail building converted to TRULY authentic loft living. Why settle for a condo or fauxloft space when you can have the real thing, plus 14 BIG windows looking toward Lincoln Park? HW floors, soaring 12-ft tin ceilings, 3 skylights, 7 bright transoms, wood FP, spacious kitchen, and one-of-a-kind dimensions.

1221 Constitution Ave, NE 3BR/1.5BA $844,000 Pristine Victorian bay front lovingly restored and updated - STUNNING architectural detail! HW flrs, pocket doors, trim, mantels, and center stairs. Immaculate kit of solid cherry, granite & steel. 3 Big BR spaces, middle currently opened as den. All-glass additions on South side. HUGE unfinished lower lvl ready for your dream build-out. Private patio, garden, prkg, decks.

8 2

1408 G Street, SE 3BR/1.5BA $675,000 Beautifully renovated and well-maintained end-of-row home with wide open floor plan through living, dining, and kitchen space. Soaring ceilings, skylights, fireplace, bright windows, spacious lower level Guest Suite, and so much more! Bonus: delightful rear deck and brick paved garden!

ASTOUNDING Dimensions! Tall, wide, and deep Italianate with classic design and immaculate mod construction.1200 SF per floor, 11 ft ceilings, sky-lit DR, chef’s kit open to giant bonus room! MBR/ BA of your dreams, 4 skylights, 3 FPs, patio, parking. BONUS: HUGE lower lvl ready for EZ finish

2 2

3 4 3 3 3 3 2 2 3 3 4 2 2 3 2

509 7th St. NE 3 BR/2.5BA $949,000

R T! DE C N A U TR N CO

G IN ! M N CO OO S

YOUR HOUSE HERE!

In times of market shift, homebuyers and sellers are finding our energy, creativity, and direct experience more vital than ever. For the BEST RESULTS, put us to work today! Call Joel for a free consultation on market values, smart improvements, and more!

3 3 3 5 3 3

March 2014 H 91

NEW LISTINGS FIRST OPEN! MARCH 9TH, 2-4PM LUSCIOUS LOVEJOY LOFTS

Dramatic corner 1BR plus den unit. Heavenly high ceilings, terrifically tall multi-paned school windows on two sides, wonderful wood floors, center island kitchen with granite, delightful den/study, fun loft overlooking the Kitchen, garage parking and extra storage unit. Very pet friendly bldg. Easy access to shops, restaurants, Metro.

KENT

5035 MACOMB ST NW 5032 FULTON ST NW

LEDROIT PARK 2020 1ST ST NW 1908 6TH ST NW 1848 5TH ST NW 9 U ST NW 5 V ST NW

440 12th St, NE Call Pam Kristof 202 253-2550

LILY PONDS 4127 LEE ST NE 3328 AMES ST NE 318 34TH ST NE

COMING SOON! A WORLD OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR

LOGAN 1209 S ST NW

MARSHALL HEIGHTS 5122 E ST SE

Light filled 1BR penthouse unit close to DuPont Circle, shops, restaurants and Metro. Custom kitchen with granite and stainless steel appliances. Marvelous marble entry and wood floors. Custom built-ins. Marble bath with jetted tub. Garage parking and pet friendly.

Licensed in DC, MD & VA

3919 FULTON ST NW 3804 KLINGLE PL NW 3831 GARFIELD ST NW

OLD CITY #1

1533 EAST CAPITOL ST SE 612 L ST NE 1431 EAST CAPITOL ST SE 641 L ST NE 713 8TH ST NE 707 FLORIDA AVE NE 316 18TH ST NE 205 17TH ST SE 820 4TH ST NE 114 16TH ST NE 637 ELLIOTT ST NE 1627 POTOMAC AVE SE 1342 L ST SE 1323 CAROLINA AVE SE 448 20TH ST NE 1510 D ST NE 1113 3RD ST NE 1532 2ND ST SW 643 20TH ST NE

“We are part of Capitol Hill, We don’t just work here... We live here, too. Let our neighborhood experience work for you...”

Your Neighbor On The Hill 202.546.3100 210 7th Street, SE. #100. WDC 20003 www.monarchtitle.net

OLD CITY #2

Deborah Charlton

Long and Foster Realtors Christie’s Great Estates

(202) 415-2117 (202) 944-8400 DC.DC@LongandFoster.com www.yourneighboronthehill.com 92 H Hillrag.com

1700 HOBART ST NW 1811 IRVING ST NW 1636 ARGONNE PL NW 3417 MOUNT PLEASANT ST NW

5 3

$815,000 $789,000 $690,000 $532,000 $511,000

6 3 4 5 3

$269,900 $210,000 $144,900

4 2 2

$1,679,000

$303,000

$1,175,000 $910,000 $850,000 $650,000

5 4 4 4

OBSERVATORY CIRCLE

1718 P St NW Call Hub Krack 202 550-2111

“The road to success is not always straight; let me help you through the real estate maze to a happy and successful destination”

MOUNT PLEASANT

$1,625,000 $1,055,000

JOHNSON LAW GROUP Services to individuals and businesses since 1985... Wills, Estates and Trusts • Commercial and Business Law Property Transactions and Disputes • Government Contracting • General Civil Litigation

www.jlgi.com

202-544-1515

Capitol Hill • 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, Washington, DC 20003

1731 R ST NW 2003 13TH ST NW 1516 1ST ST NW 1309 6TH ST NW 1521 9TH ST NW 15 Q ST NW 1158 1ST ST NW

PALISADES

4622 LAVEROCK PL NW 5009 SHERIER PL NW 5706 MACARTHUR BLVD NW 4629 GREENE PL NW

PETWORTH

641 GALLATIN ST NW 738 FARRAGUT ST NW 5227 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW

$1,600,000 $1,242,500 $1,052,500

5 4 4

$1,200,000 $754,900 $740,000 $710,000 $695,000 $599,900 $574,900 $546,000 $541,000 $525,000 $515,000 $500,000 $485,000 $453,000 $449,990 $425,000 $420,000 $300,300 $230,000

5 4 4 3 4 3 4 2 3 2 4 2 2 2 2 3 2 3 2

$1,650,000 $713,000 $649,000 $600,000 $550,000 $465,000 $375,000

4 3 2 5 2 3 3

$1,800,000 $1,615,000 $980,000 $930,000

4 5 4 4

$680,000 $665,000 $630,000

3 4 4

THE 2014 CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY GUIDE! Covering the vibrant neighborhoods of: 310 EMERSON ST NW 5522 4TH ST NW 326 FARRAGUT ST NW 524 INGRAHAM ST NW 227 JEFFERSON ST NW 4607 8TH ST NW 906 ALLISON ST NW

RANDLE HEIGHTS 2008 TRENTON PL SE 2014 SAVANNAH PL SE 1835 FREDERICK DOUGLASS PL SE 1879 ALABAMA AVE SE 1824 TUBMAN RD SE

RIGGS PARK

728 KENNEDY ST NE 5129 DAKOTA AVE NE 408 QUACKENBOS ST NE

SHAW

451 S ST NW 44 FLORIDA AVE NW

SHEPHERD PARK 1412 LEEGATE RD NW 1200 HEMLOCK ST NW

SPRING VALLEY

5001 UPTON ST NW 5036 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW 4829 UPTON ST NW

TAKOMA PARK 309 WHITTIER ST NW 69 TUCKERMAN ST NW

TRINIDAD

1120 MORSE ST NE 1312 STAPLES ST NE 1420 TRINIDAD AVE NE 1760 LANG PL NE 1783 LYMAN PL NE 1224 MONTELLO AVE NE 1709 LANG PL NE 1926 BENNETT PL NE

U ST CORRIDOR 1745 U ST NW

WESLEY HEIGHTS 4437 KLINGLE ST NW 2310 44TH ST NW 4206 EMBASSY PARK DR NW

WOODRIDGE 3013 CLINTON ST NE 2641 MYRTLE AVE NE

$599,000 $592,600 $559,400 $519,900 $499,000 $450,000 $399,999

4 4 4 4 3 4 3

$235,000 $234,900 $219,000 $105,300 $219,922

3 5 3 3 3

$260,000 $250,000 $200,000

3 3 2

$950,000 $475,000

5 3

$660,000 $500,000

5 3

$2,875,000 $1,450,000 $1,160,000

8 5 4

$454,000 $345,000

3 3

$716,500 $579,000 $560,000 $303,000 $235,000 $170,000 $130,000 $467,000

5 4 4 3 3 2 2 4

$1,175,000

$1,450,000 $1,165,000 $724,000

4 3 2

$349,900 $275,000

4 4

$732,400 $709,900 $570,000 $539,300 $487,500 $487,400 $479,500 $360,000

2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1

Capitol Hill • H Street • Capitol Riverfront • Southwest • NOMA

A RESOURCE DIRECTORY THAT CAPITOL HILL RESIDENTS CONSULT ALL YEAR ROUND • • • • • • • • •

2012 Yearbook & Highlights of Living on the Hill Directories: Real Estate, Home Services, Businesses, Services & Pet Services Guide to Shopping on the Hill Dining, Arts and Entertainment Beauty Health & Fitness Raising Kids & Schools Living in the City: the ABC’s of Urban Life, Sightseeing, Getting Around and Public Safety Community Resources: Organizations and Volunteer Opportunities Maps: Street Maps, Metro, Public School and ANC Boundaries; DC Zip Codes

HAVE PHOTOS, IDEAS, OR COMMENTS TO SHARE? email us at: guidephotos@hillrag.com

Condo ADAMS MORGAN

2360 CHAMPLAIN ST NW #3.2 2360 CHAMPLAIN ST NW #1.1 2301 CHAMPLAIN ST NW #101 2360 CHAMPLAIN ST NW #4.4 2360 CHAMPLAIN ST NW #B2 2360 CHAMPLAIN ST NW #3.4 1730 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW #10 2312 17TH ST NW #2

New MilleNNiuM BUY • SELL • LEASE • MORTGAGE • TITLE • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • RELOCATION

CARTUS MASTERS CUP WINNER

www.c21nm.com

202-546-0055 March 2014 ★ 93

{real estate / changing hands}

AMERICAN UNIVERSITY PARK 4101 ALBEMARLE ST NW #528

$510,000

BARRY FARMS 2610 WADE RD SE #106

$46,000

BLOOMINGDALE 6 RHODE ISLAND AVE NW #8 1700 2ND ST NW #6 1700 2ND ST NW #5 1700 2ND ST NW #9 51 RANDOLPH PL NW #401

$420,000 $380,000 $370,000 $365,000 $265,000

BRIGHTWOOD 921 BUTTERNUT ST NW #203 5414 1ST PL NW #502 5414 1ST PL NW #402 5414 1ST PL NW #503 5414 1ST PL NW #303 304 ASPEN ST NW #203

$350,000 $292,500 $264,405 $264,405 $233,000 $199,900

BROOKLAND 1210 PERRY ST NE #302

$286,000

CAPITOL HILL 735 12TH ST SE #2 901 SOUTH CAROLINA AVE SE #3 1815 A ST SE #201 101 NORTH CAROLINA AVE SE #305

$605,000 $351,750 $252,500 $236,000

CENTRAL 1155 23RD ST NW #N5H 777 7TH ST NW #1026 1312 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #403 2201 L ST NW #302

$825,000 $609,000 $385,000 $300,000

CHEVY CHASE 5402 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #404

$259,000

CITY CENTER 925 H ST NW #904 925 H ST NW #905 925 H ST NW #703

$1,147,000 $653,236 $607,000

CLEVELAND PARK 4301 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #6008 3400 39TH ST NW #720 2755 ORDWAY ST NW #308 3848 PORTER ST NW #376 3601 WISCONSIN AVE NW #311 3026 WISCONSIN AVE NW #108

$420,000 $411,000 $326,250 $317,000 $269,000 $250,000

COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 1435 EUCLID ST NW #PH 3413 SHERMAN AVE NW #2 1451 BELMONT ST NW #416 1451 BELMONT ST NW #118 762 PARK RD NW #6 762 PARK RD NW #5 1476 HARVARD ST NW #A 1448 HARVARD ST NW #PH-6 762 PARK RD NW #4 762 PARK RD NW #1 3404 13TH ST NW #102 762 PARK RD NW #3 3511 13TH ST NW #305 912 SHEPHERD ST NW #101 811 OTIS PL NW #306 811 OTIS PL NW #305 1300 EUCLID ST NW #2 1457 PARK RD NW #302 1451 Park RD NW #216

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$770,000 $700,000 $675,000 $651,000 $650,500 $650,000 $624,000 $619,000 $609,000 $585,000 $570,000 $570,000 $469,900 $335,000 $332,900 $328,900 $325,000 $325,000 $319,900

1 2 2 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 1

1423 NEWTON ST NW #103 811 OTIS PL NW #106 912 SHEPHERD ST NW #303 1451 PARK RD NW #311 1438 MERIDIAN PL NW #4 2600 SHERMAN AVE NW #103 1451 PARK RD NW #104 1441 EUCLID ST NW #105 1451 PARK RD NW #415 3214 8TH ST SE #6 713 BRANDYWINE ST SE #102

$305,000 $305,000 $299,900 $254,900 $245,000 $240,000 $209,900 $170,000 $169,900 $80,000 $33,500

DUPONT 1758 U ST NW #1 1725 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW #607 1736 WILLARD ST NW #204 1605 16TH ST NW #6 1615 Q ST NW #4 1725 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW #202 1 SCOTT CIR NW #302

$529,000 $371,500 $330,000 $799,000 $575,000 $500,000 $252,000

FOGGY BOTTOM 2

2401 H ST NW #612 2141 I ST NW #314

3 1 1 0

FOREST HILLS 2939 VAN NESS ST NW #1209 2939 VAN NESS ST NW #1042

1 2 1 1 3 1 1 1 1 1

$297,500 $245,000

GARFIELD 2737 DEVONSHIRE PL NW #504

1 2 1 1

$273,000 $190,000

$367,000

GEORGETOWN 3052 R ST NW #303 1015 33RD ST NW #803 2500 Q ST NW #121 2500 Q ST NW #331

$1,300,000 $1,000,000 $755,000 $377,000

KALORAMA 2301 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #8A 1882 COLUMBIA RD NW #203 2205 CALIFORNIA ST NW #104 2126 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #58 2300 18TH ST NW #301 1831 BELMONT RD NW #101 1811 WYOMING AVE NW #23 2456 20TH ST NW #103

$995,000 $960,000 $807,000 $527,000 $380,000 $317,000 $195,000 $369,300

LEDROIT PARK 305N. W. T ST NW #B 305 T ST NW #A

$690,000 $640,000

1 1 1 1 2 1 0 0 2 1

1421 T ST NW #6 2125 14TH ST NW #915 1401 Q ST NW #203 1450 CHURCH ST NW #602 1440 CHURCH ST NW #609 1325 13TH ST NW #50 1401 CHURCH ST NW #414 1245 13TH ST NW #602 1625 15TH ST NW #1 1242 11TH ST NW 1117 10TH ST NW #W-3

$450,000 $749,000 $1,000,000 $938,908 $910,000 $669,000 $632,000 $547,500 $452,100 $600,000 $800,000

MOUNT PLEASANT 1696 LANIER PL NW #4 1696 LANIER PL NW #3 1696 LANIER PL NW #2 1830 LAMONT ST NW #PENTHOUSE

$760,000 $595,000 $586,000 $499,000

1 1 1 1

$450,000

MT VERNON 1123 6TH ST NW #201

$775,000

OBSERVATORY CIRCLE 3901 CATHEDRAL AVE NW #616

$335,000

OLD CITY #1 513 12TH ST NE #8

$205,000

1616 11TH ST NW #PH-3 910 M ST NW #314 555 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #1217 1543 6TH ST NW #301 1912 T ST NW #C 1920 S ST NW #106 555 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #411 1731 WILLARD ST NW #203 2008 16TH ST NW #301 1601 18TH ST NW #708

$540,000 $530,000 $480,000 $471,000 $400,000 $395,000 $390,000 $324,900 $302,000 $250,000

PALISADES 4840 MACARTHUR BLVD NW #402 4471 MACARTHUR BLVD NW #301 4840 MACARTHUR BLVD NW #205-C

$350,000 $255,000 $234,000

PETWORTH 1 2 2 2 1

4114 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW #1 4805 4TH ST NW #3 807 VARNUM ST NW #5 807 VARNUM ST NW #6 4805 4TH ST NW #1

$317,000 $270,000 $262,000 $258,000 $238,000

RANDLE HEIGHTS 2472 ALABAMA AVE SE #C-103 1907 GOOD HOPE RD SE #310

$68,000 $58,000

2 2 3 2 1 1 2 1

RLA (SW)

3 3

TAKOMA

1 2 2 2 2 3 1 2 1 3 2 3 2 2 2

MOUNT VERNON TRIANGLE 440 L ST NW #712

$329,000

OLD CITY #2 2 1 1 2 2 2 1

LOGAN 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 2 1

811 4TH ST NW #522

355 I ST SW #S-425 355 I ST SW #S-616

$435,000 $355,000

SW WATERFRONT 350 G ST SW #N-605 1435 4TH ST SW #B402 1435 4TH ST SW #B403 849 3RD ST SW #100

554 BRUMMEL CT NW #554

$355,000 $234,900 $230,000 $544,000 $385,000

U ST CORRIDOR 2101 NW #405 2101 11TH ST NW #401 2004 11TH ST NW #325 2001 12TH ST NW #114 2120 VERMONT AVE NW #607

$475,000 $664,900 $395,000 $412,200 $438,100

VAN NESS 4740 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #414

$299,000

WAKEFIELD 4700 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #208

$520,000

WESLEY HEIGHTS 3101 NEW MEXICO AVE NW #540 4201 CATHEDRAL AVE NW #811W

$559,750 $215,000

WEST END 1177 22ND ST NW #7G 1111 23RD ST NW #S5F

$3,310,000 $3,150,000

1 3 1 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 3 3 1 2 1 1 1 1 2 2 0 3 3

HOMES THAT SHOW BETTER SELL BETTER WITH

Own a Piece of History!

JT POWELL! Adams Morgan - 2305 18th Street NW #304: 1Br 1Bath condo in the heart of Adams Morgan close to all that U Street, DuPont Circle, and Columbia Heights has to offer - shops, restaurants, Metro, night life....New A/C, washer/dryer in unit, updated bathroom, large southern facing windows, 1 block to Zip Car, close to bike share and so much more! $284,500 Capitol Hill - 612 L Street NE: 4Br 3.5Bath elegant Victorian offering beautiful wood floors, huge mstr bedroom + private bath, giant patio+flower garden, off st pkg, stainless steel kitchen with granite counters, tumbled marble back-splash, renovated bathrooms, bsmt guest suite, 5 blocks to Red Line Metro. Sold for: $754,900

L SO 2501 PENNSYLVANIA AVE NW #2B 1111 23RD ST NW #7C 1155 23RD ST NW #6D 1177 22ND ST NW #4J 1121 24TH ST NW #107

WOODLEY PARK

2829 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #204 3100 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #318

WOODRIDGE 2504 22ND ST NE #4 2504 22ND ST NE #6

$1,700,000 $1,425,000 $1,350,000 $1,075,000 $475,000

2 2 2 1 2

$324,000 $395,000

1 1

$120,000 $119,900

1 1

View Our Marketing Online at www.JTPowell.com

Coop 16TH STREET HEIGHTS 1365 KENNEDY ST NW #303

DUPONT

1701 16TH ST NW #302 1514 17TH ST NW #B-5

FOGGY BOTTOM 2475 VIRGINIA AVE NW #915

FOREST HILLS

3001 VEAZEY TER NW #1522

GEORGETOWN 1657 31ST ST NW #106

GLOVER PARK

3900 TUNLAW RD NW #520

HARBOUR SQUARE 510 N ST SW #N627 560 N ST SW #N612

KALORAMA

2100 19TH ST NW ##605

$170,000

$394,000 $191,000

1 0

$252,000

$534,000

$550,000

$202,500

$612,000 $345,000

3 1

$349,555

NORTH CLEVELAND PARK 3900 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #302F

$318,000

OBSERVATORY CIRCLE 3900 WATSON PL NW #B-2B 4000 CATHEDRAL AVE NW #639B

OLD CITY #2 1440 W ST NW #308 1440 W ST NW #306 1425 T ST NW #501 1425 T ST NW #602 1425 T ST NW #502

RLA (SW)

1311 DELAWARE AVE SW #S248

1314 4TH ST SW #T-1314

WAKEFIELD

4514 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #404

WATERFRONT 520 N ST SW #S-517 510 N ST SW #N-224 520 N ST SW #S-424 ◆

$381,501 $265,000

the lights are much brighter here...

Capitol Hill - 644 Orleans Place NE: Fully Renovated! 3BR, 2,5Bath with open floor plan and super large stainless and granite kitchen with amazing counter space. Offering a dual vanity master bath, 2nd floor deck, wood floors throughout and a rear yard with alley access for off-street parking. Only 3 blocks to metro! Sold for $635,000

Historic Manor of Truman’s Place, circa 1770, has been meticulously restored with modern features while maintaining the original grandeur. The main house boasts 6 bedrooms, 5 full baths and 7 fireplaces in keeping with period features of the era. The property consists of 40 acres with a historic tobacco barn, horse stables, a 2-bedroom carriage house, a 1-bedroom guest cottage, a 3-car detached garage, brick-walled gardens, and a koi pond - all just under 40 miles from Washington, DC! Don’t miss the opportunity to seize this once-in-a-lifetime property! $1,450,000

Bonnie Baldus Grier Associate Broker bonniegrier@gmail.com

I look TO THE HILL for my buyers, sellers, friends and neighbors!

I live, work, serve and play ON THE HILL!

JT Powell – Coldwell Banker 1606 17th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009 202-465-2357 Direct 202-478-0347 Fax info@JTPowell.com 202-387-6180 Broker

John Bratton Bratton Realty LLC 202-744-2642 (c) john@BrattonRealty www.brattonrealty.com

Steve Hagedorn Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

Search listings at cbmove.com/steve.hagedorn

2 1

Licensed in DC & MD

$139,362 $113,178 $110,375 $95,813 $95,813

2 1 2 2 2

$85,000

$423,000

$340,000

$369,000 $307,000 $125,000

2 1 0

301.807.1400

Direct: Cell: Office: Fax: Email:

202-741-1707 202-841-1380 202-547-3525 202-547-8462 shagedorn@cbmove.com

Specializing in all aspects of Real Estate Settlements

• • •

Interior & Exterior Custom Painting Restoration & Historical Preservation Residential & Commercial

202.965.1600 www.jfmeyer.com Free Estimates • Insured • References

We Guarantee Attention to Detail & Personalized Service 650 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE Suite 170 Washington, DC 20003-4318 202-544-0800

March 2014 H 95

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SPRING Special

March 2014 H 97

An Antique Table Inspires a Modern Kitchen Design

fter spending 30 years in the U.S. Foreign Service, a Washington couple returned to the U.S. with a dream of making their long rented house a home. Throughout their many moves, the couple took family furniture and heirlooms along, lending a sense of continuity and familiarity in each new setting. For some, furniture is a practical necessity, but for this couple, furniture tells a story -- one that combines family history with tales of far-flung locales. When it came time to remodel their dated kitchen, the couple requested not only a more modern design, but also one that incorporated their family heirlooms. In addition to more space, upgraded appliances, and more natural light, our design team modernized the kitchen by opening the wall between the dining room and the kitchen. This design choice allows for a better layout and a visual connection between the rooms. The newly opened wall makes both the kitchen and dining feel significantly larger while still maintaining definition between spaces. Replication of moldings at the new wall provides consistency and maintains the integrity of the home. To complete the new kitchen, our team integrated the best of modern conveniences with the familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s furniture and heirlooms. When the couple asked us to design a breakfast bay around a beloved round elm wood table and presidential Hitchcock chairs, we happily obliged, suggesting designs for square, angled or round breakfast bays. After some deliberation, the client decided upon a segmented, half -round bay design. Four new double hung windows and a new glass door capture the woodland views and southern sunlight, setting the stage for a cozy family breakfast or afternoon tea. A milky white glass and brushed brass light pendant hangs above the breakfast table, providing the right balance of old and new. And, as an added bonus, basement level storage was built beneath the bay. Easily accessible from the outside, this storage room is the perfect spot for

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bikes and garden tools. Drawing inspiration from family antiques can be the perfect way to inspire a remodeling project. By marrying the old and new, our design team was able to give our client a modern home with character. And the happy experience of the kitchen remodel spurred the couple to move forward with two bathroom remodeling projects. By working closely with the homeowners, we helped create a space that feels new, yet familiar â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a house that feels like home. Bruce Wentworth, AIA is a licensed architect and contractor. He is president of Wentworth, Inc. a residential design/build remodeling firm. To learn more about remodeling your older home visit www. wentworthstudio.com or call 240-395-0705 u

TOP TO BOTTOM: The new half-round bay was added to accommodate the antique elm wood breakfast table. Photo: Geoff Hodgdon Bar stools at the new kitchen island provide additional seating for guests. Photo: Geoff Hodgdon The wall between the dining room and new kitchen was opened to enhance the sense of space, southern light and family communication. A central island accommodates sink, dishwasher and pull-out trash and an attractive glass door cabinet for glassware. Photo: Geoff Hodgdon

by Bruce Wentworth, AIA

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Getting the Help You Need with Your Garden by Cheryl Corson, RLA, ASLA

he budding outdoors will soon beckon and you may wonder if this year you’ll finally do something with the yard. Here are some tips to help you understand your needs and identify the most appropriate professional services for you. Once you know more about your criteria, it will be easier to navigate the maze of available landscape design and installation options. Although I am a landscape architect, I’ll be the first one to tell a prospective client that they’d be better served by someone else if they don’t really need the type of service I offer. Here is a condensed version of what I tell garden-hungry homeowners.

What Do You Really Need? The most helpful thing you can do for yourself, or any designer or contractor you may work with, is to ask yourself what you really want. I don’t mean, “I want a pink dogwood” – go deeper. Why do you want to make a change, and why now? Your answers will help guide you, your designer, and the design itself. Here are some examples from my practice: • My youngest just left for college and I need a project that’s just for me; • My father recently passed and we’re using our inheritance to make the yard safer and more accessible as we age; • We need the yard to look better when we sell the house next year; • I’ve decided I’m happy being single, and this isn’t the temporary house I thought it was ten years ago (that client got engaged as soon as the garden was done).

While you’re taking stock, also ask yourself: • •

How long do you intend to remain in your home (not always knowable, but worth a guess)? Are there things you absolutely must have

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a prioritized list of what can be cut or substituted without sacrificing the overall design intent. So spend some quiet time noting these things before you send that first email inquiry and you’ll be on more solid ground.

Who To Turn To There are many types of landscape designers and installers, but knowledge is power. Aside from shysters, who can be screened out, there is no single best choice. The real task is to find a service provider best suited to you and your project. Here is the cast of characters: Landscape Architects – Fifty states license these professionals, though not DC. Nonetheless, a licensed LA has an undergraduate or graduate landscape architecture degree, years of experience, and has been rigorously tested to demonstrate competency. Does this make them better designers? This garden was installed by the homeowner with landscape coaching by Cheryl CorNot necessarily. But a landscape son. Photo: S. Ferguson architect works solely for you and may not profit by selling any (Pink dogwood, bee hives, yoga space)? product or service without disclosing that to you. • Do any existing conditions pose a threat to Some very good people with landscape architecyour home and/or garage (dead overhead ture degrees are unlicensed. Some L.A.’s work as branches, damp or wet areas, loose bricks general contractors, hiring and managing every that need re-pointing)? installer. Others will recommend you contract • Do any existing conditions pose a threat to directly with installers they like and trust. your safety (rickety steps, above-ground elecLandscape Designers – The DC area has a trical conduit, uneven paving, poison ivy, few good certificate-granting programs that train loose hand rails, rotting deck)? designers for residential scale work. Again, deKnowing these items in advance will help sign talent is not guaranteed by this or any other everyone do a better job. The design and condesignation, but a good landscape designer will struction sequencing can be properly planned. have training and experience in the full range Cost estimates and value engineering can be of landscape elements and will know how to ormost accurate. “Value engineering” or “VE,” is

March 2014 H 101

Landscape contractors with in-house masons tackle this hardscape. Photo: C. Corson

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ganize and manage projects. Landscape designers may or may not profit from the sale of products or services, depending on their business model. There are also some excellent self-taught landscape designers. Fine Gardeners – These folks may be Certified Horticulturalists, Master Gardeners, Certified Arborists or know IPM (Integrated Pest Management). If your project is essentially taming or updating runaway plantings, hand pruning small trees or shrubs, or creating voluptuous planters, a fine gardener may be just the service provider for you. Landscape Contractors – There are many excellent full-service landscape contractors in the area who can build your entire project from paving to plantings. Some of these are owned and run by landscape designers, or landscape architects, and some are not. Contractors I work with prefer to obtain detailed design drawings from a design professional. Their work is more efficient (read, “profitable”) and pricing is easier when materials and exact quantities are specified for them. If you know exactly what you want, you may be best served by going directly to a landscape contractor. But don’t expect beautiful drawings or too much hand-holding. Specialized Contractors – You may need an arborist, mason, painter, carpenter, electrician, steel fabricator, a gutter guy, or an irrigation and lighting contractor. Again, if you know what you need, go right to them.

The finished wall and steps. Photo: C. Corson

Typically, your design professional organizes your project and provides a logical sequence of work so your “subs” (subcontractors) are not tripping over one another on the job site, causing you all extra time and money. If you hire specialty contractors directly, make sure they do not touch your prized trees or shrubs. No surprise trimming or pruning. Seriously! I could tell stories. Guys with Trucks and Day Laborers – There is something to be said for paying a guy with a truck to haul away all your landscape detritus for a lower rate than a full service contractor. I’ve done it myself. See advice above. Be clear and be careful. You – Some people just need a landscape coach. It can be very satisfying to help a motivated homeowner who wants to invest their own time on a manageable project. Don’t be afraid to ask for coaching help from a willing landscape pro. These projects may evolve more gradually, but when a garden is a labor of love, it shows.

My Prejudice I’ve seldom met an architect or building contractor who didn’t think they could design and/or build the garden too. Such folks have told me they want rain barrels on the roof. They have built expensive Trex decks with the indelible labels facing up on every

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board. They have made the first outside step way too narrow, and the bottom step two inches steeper than the rest. They have drilled through major tree roots, and poured concrete where permeable paving could have been used. These are good folks who build dreamy kitchens and bathrooms, but my prejudice? Use designers and installers who exclusively do outdoor work.

A Final Note

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Check references. Ask to see certificates of insurance (COI’s), licenses, or other certifications. Get agreements in writing, even a simple email or written proposal with a signature line for your acceptance. Don’t pay in full up front. Require that all changes be approved by you or your design professional in writing. Know when you need a permit or if part of your property is in public space. Let your neighbors know you are having work done. Learn the rules about removing trees. But most of all, build a good relationship with your designer and contractor. Relax into the chaos that ensues before the finished job. And enjoy the beautiful space for which you’ve so carefully set your intentions. Cheryl Corson is a local landscape architect who designed her first Capitol Hill garden in 1998. She enjoys working with homeowners. Cheryl Corson Design, LLC: www.cherylcorson.com, 202-494-5054. u

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Welcome Spring with Five Perennial Favorites

by David Bergendorf

t has been a long, cold, windy, snowy winter on the Hill and unfortunately Old Man Winter will not officially be leaving until late March. While there is plenty to complain about during the winter, there are also an abundance of wonderful flowering perennials scattered throughout the Hill in random sunny patches or sheltered by south facing brick walls. One could argue that these late winter flowering perennials are all the more resplendent and precious as they are flowering at a time of year when so few plants of any kind are flowering. All of these floral gems can help send off winter and welcome spring, whether you spot them on a walk around the neighborhood, or are starting a winter flowering section of your garden. You may have already planted some winter flowering perennials in your garden. However, if they are new to you, there are a few general points to consider before planting new winter flowing species. In the winter people tend to keep their head down and make their way quickly from door to door. So, winter flowering species are best planted near front doors, at the edges of walkways, at the front edge of a house, or even as potted plants right near a doorway. Winter flowering perennials also make great companion plants, as many of their flowering splendors do not last long, and they are best paired with species that flower at alternative times of year. This helps to maximize the interest from our typically modest sized Hill gardens. Planting on the south sides of buildings, beneath deciduous woody species, or in containers near walls, is ideal and will provide adequate winter sun for good flowering as well as shelter during the summer months. The following five perennials are some of my favorites. These can be found growing throughout the Hill; are suitable for small gardens or containers; and are in flower starting in February through March and beyond.

Winter flowering jasmine (Jasminum nudiflorum) FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: Winter flowering jasmine just beginning to flower in mid-February. A white flowered commercial cyclamen. A reddish-purple flowering hellebore starting to flower in mid-February.

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Winter flowering jasmine is a gracefully arching, slender, willowy, deciduous small shrub. As its species name implies, this plant flowers when there are no leaves on the stems, making the vibrant golden flowers even more impressive. This is a low maintenance shrub that thrives with adequate drainage in loamy soil. Flower production will be better with annual feedings with a slow release fertilizer such as a balanced organic fertilizer. Scratch fertilizer into the soil surface a few inches from the stems in the late fall, and cover with compost.

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202-546-1010 Jasmine’s size can easily be controlled with judicious pruning in the late fall. This plant is beautiful cascading over the edge of a rock wall, or out of an ornamental pot near a front entrance.

Cyclamen (Cyclamen sp.) Cyclamen can be a wonderful addition to a garden underneath dormant winter plants. In this region, cyclamen are particularly suitable for container gardening; they prefer fertile, well drained soils rich in organic matter. The absolute best time to plant cyclamen is during their summer dormant period. Avoid cultivating the soil near cyclamen’s delicate root system, planting near the base of other deciduous plants may be ideal. Just when you forgot you planted the cyclamen, they will push up graceful flowers prior to leaf out during the late winter. For best maintenance, add a thin layer of organic fertilizer, covered by compost, annually to feed the plant and help maintain the soil quality. Many commercially available varieties may not be perennial in this region, but they will still add annual interest to the late winter garden.

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Hellebore (Helleborus sp.) One of the longest blooming late winter and early spring perennials grown on the Hill is the hellebore. In recent years, wide varieties of hellebores have become available in colors ranging from greenish white to deep red and even splashes of purple. Hellebores also have attractive foliage. They can also be susceptible to heavy snows as fell this year. On the Hill, hellebores

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ter sunshine. Dig up bulbs in the summer, fertilize as above, and re-plant for an added boost the following year. Leaving the leaves on the plant until they naturally decline will also help to the plant to replace nutrients expended during flowering.

Winter flowering bergenia (Bergenia crassifolia)

Clusters of daffodil, a Hill garden classic.

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are best planted on south facing edges below larger plants to provide shelter and access to winter sunshine. They prefer well drained soils that are high in organic matter, and will benefit from yearly fertilization as described above for jasmine.

Bergenia is a very hardy perennial that will start flowering near the end of winter, bridging the late winter to spring flowering seasons in Hill gardens with graceful clusters of pinkish white flowers. The thick, dark green, toothy edged leaves, also make an attractive background for later flowering companion perennials. Bergenia will survive and flower in partial shade, even in relatively poor soils. It will thrive in richer soils or with fertilization as described for the other perennials above. Dividing plants and replanting portions every few years will allow bergenia to maintain its dense growth form. u

Daffodil (Narcissus sp.) An iconic flowering bulbous plant that even the most brownthumbed beginning gardener can easily grow is the daffodil. Many varieties are available in classic yellow and white, or the occasional apricot or even cream. Daffodils are a wonderful reminder of the approaching spring and look best in clusters strategically placed for maximum later winter viewing. Bulbs should be planted outside in early fall, but can even be forced to flower in gravel on your dining room table. When planting outside, I like to include a small handful of organic fertilizer at the bottom of a three inch hole. Be sure to plant the bulb pointy side up for best results in an area that will receive late win-

The handsome glossy foliage and pinkish flower clusters of winter flowering bergenia.

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Repairing Winter Damage To Your Ornamental Garden

he spring homes and gardens issue could not come at a better time. We are experiencing a collective exhale after two months of winter storms that brought 20-year low temperatures, sustained wind gusts, freezing rain and snow to the region. As temperatures start to warm and spring bulbs push up from their winter rest, we will be left with plants that have been damaged by wind, ice, salt, temperature fluctuations and the unforgivingly frigid polar vortex.

The Damage and Recovery Plants acclimate to the region they have been growing in. For the past ten plus years we have had warmer than average winters and our plants have become accustomed to the warmer climate. Even the winters that brought us large snowfalls did not bring us the frigid temperatures that we sustained this winter. The temperature fluctuation this season was intense and extremely damaging to evergreens and

Nandina plants before this seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winter storms

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by Derek Thomas

any plant that is marginally hardy to our region, some of which will not recover. However, spring is a time of rapid growth and with a bit of organized planning mixed with a pampering hand, many of the plants will recover. If they are lost, we will have to replace or rethink as we rebuild our gardens and prepare to regain garden greatness.

Broad Leaf Evergreens The damage that our broad leaf evergreens have sustained this winter will require the removal of any wind and salt damaged leaves, as these leaves will not heal themselves. Some of the leaves

may have taken on a darker chocolate coloring and are not burnt but just discolored. Depending on the extent of damage these leaves could be left on the plant. Check a leafâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health by looking at the underside of the leaf. If it is still in good condition the underside in most cases will still be green and firm not crispy brown. Leaves that are brown and crisp are not going to recover and should be removed. Some plants that have composite leaves, (multiple leaves on a singe stem with only one connecting point to the main branch), may have partial or entire damage. The parts that are damaged can be removed. In most

Composite leaves like this Nandina may have to be pruned back to the main stem. Badly burnt leaves will not regenerate.

cases the stems from these plants will regrow at the nodes where the leaf was connected.

Deciduous Trees and Shrubs These plants will begin to show signs of damage later in the spring. Younger tips may have sustained the most â&#x20AC;&#x153;die backâ&#x20AC;? and you will be able to prune off these tips as the new growth emerges. Should you have a tree limb or a deciduous shrub that is heavily damaged, do a renewal prune of the shrub, or remove the entire limb of the tree. Depending on the shrub, many will recover from a harsh pruning, and in fact thrive with a flush of new growth. However many trees, particularly

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younger specimens that have experienced hard die back may be best replaced. Pruning a tree down harshly will give you a altered tree which could be problematic as limbs grow back in an unnatural manner. Another deciduous tree that may have dieback this year is the Crape Myrtle. Most folks have forgotten that these beauties of the late July and early August garden were once considered tender to our region. This spring may bring great dieback on many of these cherished summer flowering trees. These plants are some of the last to emerge in spring, so be patient when

accessing if they have died back and need to be pruned back harshly.

Tender Ornamental Plants These plants are the ones we have come to know as “cold hardy.” Many of these plants are cold hardy to the 20’s and as we know we had temps in the low teens and even some days of single digits with the wind chill of minus zero. Some of these plants will recover and regrow. Plants like hardy palms may lose all of their leaves and regrow from the center crown. Plants like bananas may take longer than norLEFT: The weight of snow and ice will damage hardy ornamentals like this windmill palm. Discoloration and brown specks will not re-green on these palm leaves. Depending on the damage complete removal may be needed.

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BELOW: The weight of snow and ice can break and deform shrubs. Through proper pruning and nutrients these shrubs will recover.

RIGHT: The mild chocolate coloring on these viburnum indicates a mild wind burn. The leaves do not have to be removed, as they are not crisp and completely burnt.

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mal to emerge from the ground or they may not emerge at all. Hardy ornamentals planted in low areas may succumb to winter root rot from the higher than average moisture we have had this year. The next few months may take some reimagining of the areas where we planted out the hardy ornamentals in our gardens. One lesson that can be learned from this winter is, if you want to have these tender ornamental plants you have to be prepared for failure and enjoy them as temporary additions to the landscape in our region. It may be years before we have a winter like the one we are emerging from and the beauty of a hardy tropical or west cost sage in the summer garden outweighs the loss during a harsh winter.

Root Damage and the Effect of Salt The application of salt and chemicals to our roads and walkways is potentially harmful to our soil and plant root health. To counteract this, put down a heavier than normal application of compost and manure to help build the organic content of your soil. Prior to applying this treatment wait till the soil dries a bit to see if there is a white residue on the top of the soil. Should you see this residue, remove the top inch or two of the area affected as this indicates a high concentration of salt and will be harmful to the plants tender new roots. Our best defense this year to build back our plants health from this harsh winter will be the soil amendments we add throughout this

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Standard Cleaning Services growing season. Compost, manure and organic fertilizers will help plants rebound and thrive. Root ball heaving will also be a problem this spring. The repeated freezing and thawing of the soil can cause plants to heave up and leave their roots exposed. If this has happened to some of your smaller plants take the time now to replant them before the active growth begins. Should this be the case with a spring flowering bulb or plant that flowers in the spring, mulch the exposed roots until the plant has flowered, then replant immediately after bloom in spring. Keep in mind some bulbs may be set back from this spring replanting and next years blooms may be lackluster or nonexistent. Larger trees that have heaved should have an expert access the damage to the roots and tree.

The Garden Eternal Don’t let this winter discourage you from the craft of gardening; spring is a time of renewal in our gardens and our lives. Soon this winter will be a distant memory as we walk through the streets and avenues of Capitol Hill and the scents of hyacinths and tulips waif through the air and revitalize our gardening mind, body and soul. Enjoy. Derek Thomas is principal of Thomas Landscapes. His garden designs have been featured on HGTV’s Curb Appeal, and Get It Sold. His weekly garden segment can be seen on WTTG/Fox 5 in Washington. He can be reached at www.thomaslandscapes.com or 301.642.5182. You can find and friend us on Facebook at Facebook/Thomas Landscapes. Follow us on Twitter @ThomasGardenGuy For Great Garden Tips. u

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Closing the Coop on Chickens in DC A History of Urban Animals by Hayden Wetzel

ith the current talk of allowing chicken breeding once again in the District, residents might be interested in the history of such ventures to see where we have been in

earlier times. In the early days of the District citizens regularly complained about stray animals, but these were much larger than chickens: cows, horses, goats and (a particular problem) hogs. Early laws regarding animals dealt with geese but not chickens. After years of ineffectual attempts to get the police to round up the creatures, the government established a city-operated pound in 1872, which set out to capture all unattended animals, including the large population of feral dogs. Given that loose farm animals were all owned by someone and represented income (or food), taking them to the pound met with considerable resistance: “It was almost as much as a man’s life was worth to go to some sections and pick up a goat or horse,” poundmaster, Samuel Einstein, said in an annual report. Mobs attacked the pound wagon in the streets (a famous battle was fought in Lincoln Park) and threatened to burn the pound itself if they didn’t

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get their animals back. Most of the hubbub related to the taking of hogs and goats from city streets, but geese also had their protectors. “The men engaged in the raid [on strays] did not have a very agreeable time, and in one or two instances violence was attempted by the owners of the stray animals. On 14th and S Streets NW 11 geese were in the wagon, and the owners raised a crowd and attempted to rescue them, but by fast driving they were conveyed safely to the Pound.” Nonetheless, continuous runs by the poundmen and the slow disappearance of farms in the city gradually brought an end to these heroic days, and by the 1890s such picturesque resistance to pound operations had largely disappeared, even if the number of larger animals captured remained surprisingly high. By 1890 the public had become so accustomed to its new peace free of strolling pigs and goats that citizens could turn their attention to another annoyance hitherto considered too minor and common to merit notice: roving chickens. Police regulations of 1887 prohibited at-large fowl in the two former corporations (Washington and Georgetown) and directed the poundmaster to seize such free-wheeling chickens and redeem them for 50 cents each or sell them; offending owners were fined $2-5 for each animal. The regulations also outlawed “crowing, cackling” or otherwise annoying fowl, which could be killed by the police on sight. Einstein lamented the new regulations in his report for that year and baldly

stated that he could not comply for lack of resources. In spite of such (largely ignored) regulations, the Rev. Dr. Chester of the Stanton Square neighborhood complained: “The chickens have torn up my grass and flowers and dropped litter on the pavement which is tracked into the house. The question is whether we are to be permitted to keep our parks and flower beds in order and to beautify the city or whether the chickens are permitted to dig up such places and make them eye-sores.” Explained Charles Neurath, a boy charged with failing to supervise his flock: “I ain’t the only one who owns chickens that go in the park, but lots of other people have got them too.” (Evening Star, 13 Mar 1890, p. 3). Poundmaster Einstein continued his refusal to collect chickens, saying the pound had no area for them. Raising chickens and pigeons in any square over 75% improved without a permit was banned in 1906, and no fowl allowed to roam the streets at all, by order of the Commissioners and regulations strengthened in 1908 (no fowl to be kept within 100 feet of any dwelling or building of assembly). The law exempted grocers and public marketers keeping fowl in coops for 24 hours, and allowed homing pigeons. Later orders further tightened these restrictions, which were all entered as police regulations. Negligent owners faced a fine of $2-5, and on the second offense the bird was killed. A Commissioners order of 1909 laid out specific conditions for raising “any kind of domestic fowl or pigeons”: houses (coops) had to be “dry, well ventilated, with window to admit sunlight,” and cleaned weekly in the winter and biweekly in the summer; perches and nests also had to be kept “cleaned, aired

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and sunned;” the birds required clean water at all times. The testimony preceding the 1906 order sounds wonderfully contemporary and demands to be summarized: Anti-chicken – they are unsanitary and a nuisance, especially the crowing roosters; Pro-chicken – they are educational, good pets, can be kept cleanly, represent a bastion of property rights (including as a source of income), can be of distinguished breed (this from the Homing Pigeon Club), are of better nutritional quality if raised at home (i.e., they’re organic), and raised in more natural conditions (i.e., free-range, this from the Retail Grocers’ Protective Association). Huffed one chicken-raiser: “The insanitary condition in this city comes more from the people than from chickens.” And an ever-true observation responding to the rooster complaint: “Unfortunately we have a great many chronic kickers who complain against the ringing of church bells and the laughter and frolic of the child on the street.” Such was the complacency of the populace under these improvements that even annoyances accepted today as normal came under investigation: “There is no law existing whereby the citizen may be protected from pigeons alighting upon residential property which might be despoiled by their temporary occupancy. Several elegant residences, put up at great expense, with delicate ornamentation, have suffered from this nuisance.” To put this in perspective, the complaint refers to privately-owned birds (which did not come under the same restrictions as “fowls”) rather than vagabonds, and a householder shooting them could be charged their value. The MPDC Superintendent in 1895 recommended the Commissioners consider “a regulation concerning this evil.” How many chickens were there in the city during this period? Bureau

of the Census decennial reports on agriculture in the U.S. show a surprising trend: the number increased! 1880 – 6,482, 1900 – 8,004, 1930 – 12,529. And this, of course, was exactly at the time when acreage of farm land in the District was shrinking rapidly (1880 – 18,146 acres to 1930 – 3,071). These animals must have been found on the very outskirts of the District, particularly in north- and southeast, where the only farms remained, and perhaps in some institutional farms, such as the Soldiers’ Home and St. Elizabeths. Chicken and other domestic fowl have since disappeared from the city, and raising homing pigeons seems a hobby of the past, at least here. City laws today do not prohibit such animals but are fairly restrictive. A glance at the current Municipal Code shows that many of these regulations derive from acts of the early 20th century. How relevant are the arguments of yesteryear that we have seen above? When these laws were being debated, citizen complaints dealt largely with chickens allowed to wander at large in the streets and parks. A return to that seems unlikely today. And chicken farms of any real scale will not return to the District either – all such raising of animals commercially is gone forever. Health concerns from droppings remains a legitimate concern; noise probably less so – some dogs are noisy also, after all. Dogs for quite some time were banned from running “at large” when earlier it had been a quite common practice to let them roam at night; now we see dog parks where they can run off leash under supervision. Perhaps chickens will make a regulated come-back too. Hayden Wetzel is a licensed tour guide and regularly researches local history for preservation projects. This article is excerpted from a larger piece. He can be contacted at haydenwetzel@hotmail. com. u

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DCSEU: Putting Your Home in a New Light

Or Where, Oh Where, Has my 60 Watt Incandescent Light Bulb Gone?

ou may not have been aware of it, but on January 1, 2014, the US said goodbye to an old and trusted friend— the 60 Watt incandescent light bulb. The 60 Watt bulb had been around since the late 1800’s, but in 2007, with an eye to improving energy efficiency, Congress passed a bill that phased out these bulbs in favor of

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by Catherine Plume

compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) and light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Why? ENERGY STAR®-qualified CFLs use about 75% less energy, and ENERGY STAR qualified LEDs use about 90% less energy than incandescent bulbs. Each CFL and LED bulb reduces carbon emissions by about 500 pounds per year. So what’s the downside of these bulbs? CFLs and LEDs cost more. To help DC residents deal with this cost, the District of Columbia Sustainable Energy Utility (DCSEU) (www.dcseu.com) is partnering with local retailers across the District to offer discount CFLs for as low as $0.99 and LEDs for as low as $4.99. These bulbs last eight to fifteen times longer than the old light bulbs, and one CFL bulb can save you $40 or more in energy costs over its lifetime. Meanwhile, according to the DCSEU, you can save more than $65-$100 per year in energy costs just by replacing incandescent bulbs in your home’s five most frequently-used light fixtures with these bulb models. As an added bonus, CFLs and LEDs produce less heat, so they may also save you money in air conditioning costs during the summer months. “Swapping out incandescent bulbs is a quick and low-cost step that all residents can take to reduce their electricity bills and cut their carbon footprints,” said Ted Trabue, Managing Director of the DCSEU. “We’ve partnered with retailers in every Ward to offer significant savings on energyefficient lighting to help DC residents upgrade and save.” Operating since 2011, the DCSEU has an FY14 budget of $20 million to spend on energy efficiency initiatives in the District. The DCSEU’s

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funding comes from the Sustainable Energy Trust Fund (SETF) which is financed by a surcharge on all electric and natural gas utility ratepayers in DC. The DCSEU offers technical assistance and rebates to help District residents, businesses, and institutions save energy and money. See the table below for a list of Capitol Hill retailers that are participating in this program. Another downside to CFLs is that they contain small amounts of mercury which is a hazardous waste. (Yes! Organic sells a lowmercury CFL). CFLs need to be disposed of properly. DC offers a hazardous waste disposal program from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Fort Totten Transfer Station on the first Saturday of every month and during from 1-5 p.m. on the preceding Thursday (you can also drop off old paint and unwanted electronics here). For a full list of retailers participating in the reduced cost lighting program across the District, check out www.dcseu.com/for_ your_home/lighting/find-a-retailer. All District residents can participate in the DCSEU’s programs. In addition to their subsidies for energy-efficient lighting, the DCSEU also provides rebates to residents for energy-efficient appliances including hot water heaters, refrigerators and boilers as well as incentives for weatherization measures. Residents who want to take advantage of weatherization incentives must first

undergo a “whole house” Building Performance Institute (BPI) certified energy audit from a DCSEU participating contractor (the DCSEU will help you offset the cost of this audit). Be sure your auditor brings along an infrared camera as these can really pinpoint the source of any air leakage and poor insulation. The DCSEU also provides energy efficiency rebates to businesses and qualified multifamily residential buildings. Union Kitchen, Arena Stage and Johnny’s Half Shell and Ben’s Chili Bowl are just some of the DC institutions that have reduced their energy use in partnership with the DCSEU. In FY13 (October 2012 to September 2013), the DCSEU saved 50,000 MWh of electricity in the District for a savings of some $6 million and energy savings which would power over 5,000 homes for an entire year. So, farewell 60 Watt bulb, and hello to CFLs and LEDs…and a significant energy savings. Catherine Plume is the blogger for the DC Recycler, www.dcrecycler.blogspot.com u

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The Capitol Hill Garden Club presents

Dear Garden Problem Lady, by Wendy Blair Noting all the salt as I shoveled snow from street, sidewalk and front walk – does rock salt harm plants? Yes. We humans make a trade-off between rendering roads passable quickly and cheaply (for emergency vehicles and human commerce) and real environmental damage. Salt run-off desiccates leaves and grass, raises soil pH, and harms root growth and soil microorganisms. Later, salty runoff hurts life in rivers and streams. I forgot to prune my roses last fall. Can I still do it? If yes, any tips? Spring is maybe the best time to prune roses, before they begin to sprout. If your rose blooms on new growth, prune while the plant is dormant, or just before growth starts. If it blooms early, on last year’s canes, don’t prune until after flowering. Start by removing dead branches, and twigs thinner than a pencil. Then – cut just above the stem you wish to keep. Never cut above a stem having only three leaves. Always cut just above a five-leaved stem. I’ve heard that one must prune climbing roses differently. Can you describe how? It seems that climbers bloom most profusely when their canes run horizontally. Train these onto flat surfaces, encouraging long branches to fan

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across the face of their support in broad arches. Prune yearly in early spring before dormancy ends. First, as above, remove diseased or spindly branches. Step back before cutting more. Then prune and train the lowest of the chosen canes first. Keep strong healthy canes with plenty of side shoots. Shorten each small side shoot down to 3 to 5 buds. Use plastic or coated wire ties, tied loosely. Remove any suckers from below the graft, which is the knobby swollen mass near the soil surface. A brilliant gardening friend told me yesterday that bananas are not fruits. She says it is a little-known fact that bananas are actually herbs! What’s the difference? Makes no difference, does it? A banana is a banana is a banana. Do you care that an herb is apparently defined as a plant that grows without a woody stem – as bananas do? Or that a fruit is defined as “containing seeds” – which bananas do? Although banana seeds are sterile, the seeds are those tiny brown specks at the center of the fruit. So, bananas are considered both. Capitol Hill Garden Club meetings are free and open to all, on the second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Church of the Brethren, 4th Street door, corner North Carolina Avenue and 4th Street, SE. Membership details are at 202-544-4261. On Tuesday, March 11 2014 the influence on American horticulture of John Bartram’s historic – and extant – Philadelphia Gardens will be featured. John Bartram lives!

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Feeling beset by gardening problems? Send them to the Problem Lady c/o The Capitol Hill Garden Club at andrew@hillrag. com. Your problems might prove instructive to others, and help them feel superior to you. Complete anonymity is assured. u

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{arts & dining} Beuchert’s Saloon

by Emily Clark

hat if you could have comfort food that wasn’t overly familiar? What if you could have a sophisticated meal that wasn’t intimidating and didn’t require a menu translator? Relax, it’s done and it’s nearby. To walk into Beuchert’s for any meal is to be dazzlingly confused with the cognitive dissonance of the place. Is it a sleek urban haunt with down home farm food, or an upscale farmhouse with 21st century creative cuisine? You will not be surprised to learn that the answer is all of the above, and more. The original establishment of the same name and place, founded in 1880 by German immigrant John Ignatius Beuchert, was rumored to be a speakeasy during Prohibition. Since its revival last year Beuchert’s has firmly established itself as a prime example of farm-to-table done exactly right. Much of Beuchert’s locally-sourced food comes from coowner Brendan McMahon’s East Oaks Organics family farm in Maryland. The result could be called contemporary comfort food. Nearly everything on the menu is something familiar, but with a newly crafted incarnation. All four co-owners are hands-on involved in Beuchert’s. The narrow interior, from the imaginings of one of Beuchert’s partners August Paro, doesn’t feel confining. Wall sconces cast a warm glow over everything, including two enormous bison heads that keep watch over the bar. Most of the restaurant’s seating is along the two bars on the left—one the regular bar and the second, smaller one the chef’s bar facing onto the open kitchen. Tuesday through Thursday the chef’s bar features a special tasting menu from executive chef Andrew Markert. Walk past the bars and you will find a cozy room with tables at the back, quiet enough to converse and intimate enough to eavesdrop. There’s a touch of whimsy in the cocktail menu, including the drink I ordered called the “improved version” cocktail. The server explained that the name derives from the early days of cocktails, when drinkers would have a cocktail and then return to ask for the improved version. My improved version was a concoction of bourbon with bitters, absinthe and maraschino syrup. My husband had the Abel, a warm rum-laced cider perfect for the recent arctic weather. Getting down to the business of dining is a challenge, because there are so many things on the menu that you’ll want to try. Charcuterie, pate and cheese boards with an order of side vegetables could make a meal, but then there are main courses as well. Snacks include roasted bone marrow, multi-colored beet salad with cashew yogurt and gold rice with scallops and bluefish. How in the world is a person to choose?

ABOVE: Braised beef cheecks served over pepper papperdelle with roasted carrots and pistachios. Photo: Andrew Lightman LEFT: Chef Andrew Markert, a veteran of Citronelle, Notti Bianche, Vermilion, Tallula, and Hook. Photo: Andrew Lightman

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1025 First St SE Washington DC 202-652-1009

We decided to sample the vegetables and order from the whole meals menu. All the vegetables are locally sourced and familiar, especially to a Southerner, but the devil is in the details, and these are such a surprising improvement on the memory of home. We chose carrots roasted with honey and rye croutons, cider-braised greens with crispy garlic and (my absolute favorite) rutabaga mash with apples, cheddar and shallots. It’s not often you even find rutabagas on a menu, much less this tasty. By the time we had practically inhaled the vegetables, we were presented with the mains—braised beef cheeks and a burger “all the way” with fried egg on top. My beef was a fork-tender cross between short ribs and pot roast, served on a bed of black pepper pappardelle with roasted carrots and pistachios. Such a combination of savory, crunchy, smooth and really really delicious. When I looked across the table, my husband’s burger

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Beignets with house-made apple butter are the perfect brunch treat. Photo: Andrew Lightman

was gone without my having had even one bite. At the next table a young girl was dining with her parents, and we heard her say, “Don’t order too much because we have to save room for dessert.” Even though we were completely stuffed, we had to try the lemon poppy seed cake topped with candied lemon peel and served with yogurt sorbet and lemon curd. Again, the cake reminded me of home; the accompaniments reminded me of art. Several days later, at brunch, we had a chance

to try Beuchert’s house-made candy bar, an astonishing combination of ganache and caramel. As an appetizer, we also had the beignets, if anything an improvement (if that’s possible) on the ones at Café du Monde in New Orleans. The difference is that Beuchert’s beignets have a smear of homemade apple butter at the bottom for dipping and slightly less powdered sugar to inhale and get all over your clothes! And the Irish coffee— again I was transported, this time to the Buena Vista in San Francisco. This Irish was exactly the same, with the cream lightly floating on the top rather than being too whipped. My brunch dish was a Monte Cristo sandwich with tomato jam and cheese sauce. I only wish it had less bread and more jam, but the flavors were good and the corned beef subtle. We look forward to a return visit, especially in summer when there is seating in the back garden under the fig and pear trees. Right now they’re growing root vegetables back there. Not too many places can manage to feel friendly and homey while offering such good food. There’s even a resident dog named Whiskey, who belongs to one of the owners. Whiskey is quite the attentiongetter, and you can pat him going in and coming out. Beuchert’s Saloon, 623 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, 202733-1384, http://beuchertssaloon.com/. Dinner M-Thu. 5:30-11, Fri.-Sat. 5:30–midnight, Sun. 5:30-10; Sat.-Sun. brunch 11:30-2:30; Happy Hour M-F 4-6. u

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{arts & dining / dining notes}

Spring Fashion for Your Pantry Go French with Cheese, Wine and Bread

ith winter nearly at an end, it’s time for spring shopping. While you may be getting excited about sun dresses and sandals, the closet I’m changing over is the pantry, not my wardrobe. As spring’s first warm days arrive it’s time to move on from winter’s rich staples and celebrate the emergence of daffodils and crocus with a lighter diet. This spring in the kitchen I’m going French, larding the fridge with exceptional cheese, fine wine and fresh-baked bread.

by Jonathan Bardzik the crystalline, nutty aged gouda in my dish. Cornmeal gougers and steak and cheese eclairs with pimento cheese show off Chef Paris’ southern roots. As for home? Just ask the team behind the cheese case. We started our spring selection with Valdeon, a beautifully balanced, sharp, Spanish blue and Holzhofer, a northern Swiss, beefier and less nutty, Gruyere-like cheese.

Schneider’s Finds the Right Wine For Your Cheese

Several of Sona’s affordable and dangerously drinkable wine selections are supplied by Schneider’s of Capitol Hill (www.cellar.com, 300 Massachusetts Ave NE). I called owner Jon Genderson On my second visit to Sona Creamery (www. for some advice on what to stock at home for spring sonacreamery.com, 660 Pennsylvania Ave SE), I drinking with cheese. found myself staring at a “It’s all about acidslate of cheeses asking ownity,” Jon shared. “A soft, ers Conan and Genevieve flabby wine just doesn’t go O’Sullivan, “How often do with cheese.” Cheese is by I really need the advice of definition over 50% fat, he America’s number three told me. A fat wine and fat ranked cheese monger?” cheese meld together in My question was answered your mouth. A bright wine a moment later when monwith lots of acidity cuts ger Katie Carter stepped through the fat for a balup to our table. “This first anced pairing. cheese is all about the texFor everyday drinkture,” she said. “And this ing, Jon recommends Caswheel is sweeter than most. tillo Vicchiomaggio’s 2012 It’s delicious.” She was right. Ripa delle Mandorle. This Katie is joined at Sona Sona cheese monger, Katie Carter. Photo: Jonathan Bardzik well-balanced, Super Tusby chef Frank Paris recently can will stand up to bold from Border Springs’ lamb cheese with flavors of blackberry and raspberry, venture at Union Market. “When I took the job and a price point of $15. with Border Springs I wondered, how much can Jon’s second recommendation was a bit of you do with just one ingredient? With that expea surprise. “Whites actually pair much better with rience under my belt I was excited to work with cheese than reds,” he says. Though we think of bold cheese, which, while still one ingredient, is so reds with bold flavors, the higher acidity of most much more diverse.” whites make them a perfect choice with cheese. His Picking up the menu of small dishes and wine choice for a $25 weekend splurge? A nice white burat a creamery, you’d expect an exceptional mac and gundy. Jon suggested Champy Bourgogne Blanc. cheese, and Sona doesn’t disappoint. “Scraps” from Big, rich and full-bodied, it’s got the acidity to cut the cheese are folded in, delivering larger bites, like

Shopping the Case at Sona Creamery

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Jon Genderson, owner of Schneider’s of Capitol Hill. Photo: Andrew Lightman

through the fat of the creamiest cheese. And for your anniversary dinner? At $60100 a Chassagne-Montrachet white burgundy comes from one of the best, most famous regions in burgundy. Treat yourself to one of the best whites made in the world. You (and that great cheese that Katie at Sona sent you home with) are worth it!

Fresh-baked from Lyon Bakery Lyon Bakery (www.lyonbakery.com) has been baking bread in their Southwest DC bakery for 12 years. While only recently available to the

A crusty loaf from Lyon Bakery. Photo courtesy of Lyon Bakery

Artisan

public, they are well-known to restaurants from Baltimore to Richmond, where they deliver fresh-baked bread each day. Expanding on their first, small stand at Union Station, Lyon opened a full counter at Union Market (1309 Fifth St NE). Lyon is known for artisan breads, which they define as hand-crafted using as few automated processes as possible. Each of the more than 300 shapes made from 22 different types of dough, made daily, bear the invisible hand-stamp of the baker who shaped it. And you can taste it. As Operations Manager Jesse Hamilton says, “they’ve got the love.” I certainly love their bread, but what are Jesse’s favorites? “I always point people to the Rustico loaf. A little sea salt, pepper and olive oil and you’re in heaven,” he said. The Rosemary Boule offers a sharp taste and crisp crust which we’ve been enjoying at home with a hearty beef stew. The Walnut Raisin bread is dense and sweet, delicious and indulgent spread with cream cheese. My favorite indulgence? A bagful of jalapeño cheddar rolls. Airy and light, the best part is the toasted cheese that melts out on the bottom. Jonathan Bardzik is a cook, storyteller and author living in Eckington. He is known for his weekly, live cooking demos at Eastern Market (Saturdays from March to November). His first cookbook, Simple Summer: A Recipe for Cooking and Entertaining with Ease is available now. www.jonathanbardzik. u

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{arts & dining / wine guys}

An Introduction to Italian Wines and Their Affinity With Food by Felix Milner

“M

ountainous terrain, volcanic soils, innumerable microclimates, and an ancient culture of winemaking influenced by Greeks, Phoenicians, and Romans make Italy the most diverse country in the world of wine.” This synopsis of Ian D’Agata’s, soon to be released book, Native Wine Grapes of Italy, explains why I find Italy one of the most fascinating regions. The country’s vines stretch from its most southerly Mediterranean islands all the way to the foothills of the Alps and represent more native varieties than anywhere else in the world. Of the world’s fourteen hundred or so commercial varieties, Italy has upward of five hundred, plus hundreds more that are grown in minute quantities by families, which never reach the market. For D’Agata, understanding this complex viticultural region has been exciting, lifetime long challenge. I look forward to reading his book, and getting a better understanding of such an incredibly diverse place. One of the things that really intrigues me about Italian wine, beyond the overwhelming variety, is how well they pair with, not just Italian cuisine, but all types of food. There are some regional pairings, such as dry Lambrusco with Parmigiano Reggiano or Prosciutto di Parma that were just made for each other – this combination on a hot summer’s day is just perfect. Then I recently tried a Nascetta from one of my favorite Piedmont producer’s, Cascina Adelaide, alongside sushi. Its fresh, citrus, and mineral quality worked wonderfully. I think this affinity with food is partly due to the nation’s relationship with food and drink. The two are often perceived more as a whole, an extension, rather than just being complementary to one another; therefore Italian winemakers may be

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more considerate with how their product integrates with the rest of the dinner table. It is for this reason that I so often turn to Italian wines, especially when food is involved. I particularly notice how the high acidity commonly found in their wines works so well with food. Quite often, serving a wine that’s high in alcohol and low in acidity with a dish that has lots of natural acidity, such as a tomato based stew, for instance, can make the wine taste flabby and lack luster. While the wines from some of the famous regions such as Barolo and Brunello can be slightly out of the price range for every day enjoyment, there are some great bargains found in neighboring regions, often made with the same grape variety and in a similar method but made for more near term drinking. If you’re scanning the Barolo’s but don’t want to pay upward of $40 a bottle, try a Nebbiolo from the Langhe. Nebbiolo uses the same grape Barolos and Barbarescos are made from. The wine-makers in these villages just don’t mention the grape on their label. The Langhe is a larger region within Piedmont and because there isn’t such a premium on the land, it can cost far less to make a similarly good wine. The same goes for Tuscany where often a Brunello producer makes a second wine, sometimes with a few international grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot thrown in, making them fall into the Indicazione Geografica Tipica or IGT classification. Given their price and quality these are frequently becoming some of my go-to choices. Here are some of my top picks from regions mentioned in this article:

Cascina Adelaide Langhe Nebbiolo 2009 - $30 Ratti Nebbiolo d’Alba Ochetti 2011 - $22

Cascina Adelaide Langhe Bianco “Le Pernice” (Nascetta) 2011 - $20 Villa di Corlo Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro Dry - $14 Aglieta Pomo 2007 - $30 Mate Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 - $45 Felix Milner is new-media manager at Schneider’s of Capitol Hill’s and a wine student studying for the Wine & Spirits Education Trust Diploma, a prerequisite for the Institute of Master of Wine. u

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{arts & dining / film}

At The Movies

An Asian Duo: Touching Indian Drama and Arresting Japanese Animation by Mike Canning

The Lunchbox When a casual filmgoer considers a new Indian movie, he might shoehorn it into the wellknown Bollywood category. However, the latest Indian film to hit our shores, “The Lunchbox,” stands leagues away from the exaggerated melodrama and flurry that characterizes typical Bollywood fare. This is an understated, measured creation whose emotional depth emanates from simple, natural human gestures. Tonally sophisticated, it beautifully tells the simplest of stories. (The film, which opens March 7, is rated PG and runs 104 mins.). Set in Mumbai, the plot revolves around the mistaken delivery by the city’s sophisticated “Dabbawallahs” (lunchbox service), which leads to a relationship between Saajan Fernandes (Irrfan Khan), a widower counting the minutes to retirement and Ila (Nimrat Kaur), a lonely housewife. Ila, trying to spark her marriage to an indifferent husband (Nakil Vaid), sends him one of her special luncheon meals only to have it mistakenly land with Saajan, who is enthralled with her revelatory cooking. When Ila’s “dabba” comes back, she realizes that it has been missent and writes a note in the return shipment; he responds with a polite return note and, with time, each begins to reveal their private selves and desires to the other in a delicate epistolary exchange. And thus a relationship begins. Director/writer Ritesh Batra makes his feature debut with “The Lunchbox” after producing a series of short films. The spark for this motion picture came years before, when the filmmaker was contemplating a documentary depicting the century-old Mumbai tradition of the Dabbawallahs, the low-tech, but highly efficient hot-lunch delivery system of the metropolis. As the director himself notes: “This story evolved from the story of the one in a million wrongly delivered lunchbox to the story of how hope can sometimes come from quarters we least expect.” It turns out that Batra’s study of that intricate food service did not go to waste: he opens the film

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with a spectacular, Irrfan Khan stars as Saajan in “The wordless display of Lunchbox.” Photo by Michael Simmonds; courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics. a meal’s journey (sealed in a set of stainless steel cans and a colored pouch) as it goes from Ila’s kitchen to a series of “wallahs” on bike, train, cart, and foot who deliver their culinary treasures to the desks of office drones. It is a brilliant mini-documentary of its own, highlighting the timing and Rises” would be his final film before retiring as efficiency of an age-old practice against the teema feature director. His swansong is a fictionaling backdrop of a world city. It is the kind of flowized biography of an aviation pioneer loosely ing sequence cinema was made for. based on a Japanese novella. The film was the Though it takes place in today’s Mumbai, the highest-grossing Japanese film in Japan in 2013 film has, as the director intended, “an old worldliand it has received numerous award nominaness and nostalgia about it.” A native of Mumbai, tions, including the Academy Award for Best Batra wanted to re-create the period of the 1980’s Animated Feature (now in release, the film runs when he was growing up there. Thus, no phones, 126 mins. and is rated “PG-13”). pads or pods mar the film’s narrative; instead, we The film traces the career of bespectacled get meaningful communications on paper in a can! Jiro Horikoshi who dreams, figuratively and literThe filmmaker is aided immensely here by ally, about flying airplanes, and, through one of his leads. Khan is a Indian star who has achieved his dreams, he meets Caproni, an Italian plane additional renown in major international films designer who urges him to build planes rather (“The Namesake,” “A Mighty Heart,” “Slumdog than flying them. Years later, Jiro is at university Millionaire,” and “The Life of Pi”). His forte is digto study engineering then finds himself in Tonified restraint, one who buries a great heart under kyo during the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. a placid exterior and heavy-lidded eyes. Saajan is a While there he saves a young girl named Naoko role that fits the man and his mien perfectly. Naur but does not identify himself. Once trained, Jiro as Ila is his match, balancing his stoicism with a begins working at an airplane manufacturer and wholly believable yearning and his poise with a is later sent to Germany to do technical research. hunger to connect. Here is a film as bright and polEventually, while working as chief designer ished as the nesting cans that make up the dabba. for a fighter plane competition, Jiro visits a summer resort and runs into Naoko; they are engaged soon after. Though Naoko becomes afflicted with The Wind Rises tuberculosis, she resolves to marry and move to The great Japanese animator Hayao MiJiro’s company housing. Even through Naoko’s yakazi announced last fall that “The Wind

Director Miyazaki’s “The Wind Rises” tells the story of flight pioneer Juri (right) and his mentor, Caproni (left). Image courtesy of Walt Disney Pictures.

deteriorating health, Jiro continues to work on his first successful aircraft, the Mitsubishi A5M, and Naoko’s struggle to survive coincides with Jiro’s triumph at an aerial test site. As I have marked before in this column, Miyazaki is of the old school of animation, and he makes it wondrous. While CGI (computergenerated imagery) animation is almost universal these days, Miyakazi and his team use the traditional style: exquisite, fully hand-drawn cells photographed one at a time, emphasizing both clean outlines and wonderfully shaded coloring. The effect can be almost miraculous, as in the shapes and swirls of the earthquake sequence and several flying sections in “The Wind Rises.” In this, his eleventh feature film, Miyazaki has branched out from his usual child-based fables (“Spirited Away,” “Ponyo”) to take on an adult subject, and a rather esoteric one for non-Japanese filmgoers. American viewers might cringe a little, too, at a hero who designed war planes that killed Allied targets. Still, the sheer visual richness of this “Wind” can carry one away. Let’s hope—at 73, that Hideo is not yet ready to retire.

Environmental Film Festival on the Hill Now in its 22nd year, DC’s Environmental Fill Festival will

offer the Washington premiere of a film with some resonance for Capitol Hill dwellers. The film, to be shown at the Hill Center at 7 pm on Friday, March 21st, is “Tiny: A Story About Living Small” (USA, 2013, 66 min.). A documentary about home and how we find it, “Tiny” follows one couple’s attempt to build a tiny house from scratch and profiles other families who have downsized their lives into much smaller dwellings. More than anything, “Tiny” invites its viewers to dream big yet imagine living small. The film is directed and produced by Christopher Smith and Merete Mueller. A discussion with Mueller and Lee Pera, founder of the Boneyard Studios, a “tiny house” community in Washington, DC, will follow the showing. The screening is free but reservations are required (e-mail rsvp@hillcenterdc.org). The Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital is located at 921 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE (Metro: Eastern Market). Hill resident Mike Canning has written on movies for the Hill Rag since 1993 and is a member of the Washington Area Film Critics Association. He is the author of “Hollywood on the Potomac: How the Movies View Washington, DC.” His reviews and writings on film can be found online at www.mikesflix.com. u

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{arts & dining / art}

ind the room. Put someone in it— strangely. Or not. And then what? Things…pictures, lamps, dolls, knives…things that may be innocent…begin to assemble themselves like refugees from Inconsequential. They may be malevolent. A truth begins to break out. The paint finds the darker places, leaving the white canvas beneath to beam in the brighter places. More paint flows over the surface. Outside the rules of predictability. Outside the rules of drawing, perspective, color. Outside the rules. And more visitors, squatters, show up to join a mysteriously mischievous party. They are just happy to be there—to help us find the realities we often hide in dark dreams…the big truth that we let roam inside our minds searching for its reflection. Cassie Taggart grew up in a grand old

house in Manhattan, full of the ghosts of that rascal Aaron Burr and his playmates. Cassie was a curiosity even as a child to those who received her gifts: tiny flying saucers and wee, “methodically designed” pillows. She found a compatible art program at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and received a BFA. She has lived in Los Angeles, Maryland and a Delaware beach town, but she always resides inside those inside places, like the lair of the Jabberwock—filled with enticing, if sometimes menacing ideas. Her sculptures are the physical embodiments of the collective truths of being alive, full of the orderly disorder of nature and the illogical logic of civilization where nothing is important, yet nothing is insignificant…pieces of ideas that have nothing to do with each other, but desperately need the visual energy that collects and becomes distilled. They take on a power that lights the dark and becomes Cassie Taggart’s escape, and forever her prison. You can see her real worlds this month at the Zenith Gallery show. (See, At the Galleries}.

by Jim Magner

Jim Magner’s Thoughts on Art

artandthecity

Artist Portrait: Cassie Taggart

Cassie Taggart’s art is her liberation; her freedom to explore whatever comes close. And everything, it seems, comes close. It is also her prison, always demanding that she rummage in the dark and cast a beam of light into our interior world, to find something—a something so elusive that it never comes up in one piece, so that she is “always coming up short.” But isn’t that what art is? —that digging, grabbing, fighting--finding joy in both the brightest and dankest places—a tearful joy that turns to clay because there are always pieces of the vision…or idea or place or person…that we will never fully know. Skill isn’t art. Some of the most boring, unimaginative artists were the most skillful. So many were lauded, and so many were lost—afloat on a sea of technique. But not the truly greats ones. Yes. Learn skills, techniques, structures and principles. Learn the tricks to tell the story—the story that never quite reveals itself. That’s why an artist—I mean an artist—can never be satisfied…pleased as punch…happy as a clam. But keep reaching. Keep touching. You can find, like Cassie Taggart, enough of the story, and grab enough of the joy.

(LEFT) Someday, (Never) 40X30” Oil on canvas (RIGHT) 57 Varieties 48X48” Oil on canvas

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Song of the Bleeding Throat 20X24” Acrylic on canvas

At the Museums

Modern German Prints and Drawings Garry Winogrand National Gallery of Art, West Bld. 7th and Constitution NW

This is a donated collection that reveals the “common thread that connects the 18th century to the late 20th century, and mixes German Romanticism and impressionism with German expressionism, the Bauhaus, and even pop art.” The star of the show is Ernst Ludwig Kirchner (1880–1938), one of the major forces of early-20th century European Expressionism. This is a show not centered on the most famous ones, but art that donor Ruth Cole Kainen saw as having “authentic graphic quality.” – June 29 Don’t miss Garry Winogrand (1928– 1984), the celebrated photographer of New York City, and the breath of postwar America. This expansive exhibition brings together some 180 photographs including some of his most “iconic images. This is America as it really was, warts and all. –June 8

At the Galleries

“36 Years” Zenith Gallery Presents 1429 Iris St. NW March 7th – April 26 Opening Recep: Sat. March 8, 2 – 6, Sun. March 9, 2 - 4

36 years—36 artists. Yes, Zenith celebrates its “36 Years on a Creative Journey” with the

painting, sculpture and mixed media art of approximately 36 artists. Who’s really counting? These are some of the most celebrated painters and sculptors in the region, and most have been represented by Zenith for many years. All in one place. And what a place! It is the home of Zenith’s Margery Goldberg, also one of the artists, and it’s chock-a-block with visual surprises and gems, inside and out. You will find the paintings of Cassie Taggart among the treasures, (See, Artist Profile) and her last unsold sculpture, “The Ark.” Great show. www.zenithgallery.com. 202-783-2963

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“The Cocoon Series” The Art League  105 North Union St , Alexandria, VA Recep: Thurs. March 13, 6:30 – 8

In his solo exhibit, “The Cocoon Series,” photographer E.E. McCollum stretches translucent nylon over models to sculpt curved surfaces from the human figure. Other shows are happening at the same time. www. theartleague.org. Multi-Artist Show Hill Center Galleries 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE March 6—April 26, Recep: Wed. March 19, 6-8

The featured show is the juried exhibit of the Montgomery Co. Plein Air Artists. This is the best place to find area landscapes and village scenes. Other local artists can also be seen throughout the building. www.hillcenterdc.org. A Capitol Hill artist and writer, Jim can be reached at Artandthecity05@aol.com. Jim’s award-winning book, “A Haunting Beauty” can be acquired through www.ahauntingbeauty.com u

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LITERARY HILL

A Compendium of Readers, Writers, Books, & Events

by Karen Lyon by an author whom Joyce Carol Oates has rightfully called “a major talent.” Bayard is also the author of the critically-acclaimed “The School of Night,” “The Black Tower,” the national bestseller “The Pale Blue Eye,” and “Mr. Timothy,” a New York Times Notable Book. Visit him at www.louisbayard.com.

Henry, Emily, and Will: A Love Story Louis Bayard reimagines Teddy and Kermit Roosevelt’s ill-fated 1914 Amazon expedition.

Bully for Bayard! This much is known: In 1914, Theodore Roosevelt and his son Kermit mounted a scientific expedition down the Amazon. By all accounts, it was a disaster. Out of this incident, Louis Bayard has fashioned “Roosevelt’s Beast,” a magnificent tale that reimagines what might have happened in the unforgiving jungle—“the trees arching like the groins of a mausoleum” and “trunks and leaves and vines, writhing and coiling…sprouting in midair…weaving around.” And the encroaching jungle is far from the only threat. When Kermit and Teddy are captured by an Amazonian tribe, their only ticket to freedom is to kill a vicious beast that has been eviscerating villagers— one that has never been seen and leaves no tracks. They set out on the hunt, rifles at the ready. But Kermit, who is battling his own demons, soon begins to question whether the beast dwells without or within. What if “it looks for holes— empty spaces it can fill” and insinuates itself into them, turning its host into a killer? A daring psychological thriller, “Roosevelt’s Beast” is a stunning achievement

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During a layover at Union Station, Henry Clay Folger and his wife Emily took a walk through the neighborhood, where the ever-astute Henry identified the area then known as Grant’s Row, tucked in behind the Library of Congress, as the ideal spot to house their collection of Shakespeareana. It took him nine years to gain title to the existing properties, but he persisted and the Hill is now home to the Folger Shakespeare Library, his gift to the American people. A much more detailed version of that story— and many more—is told by Stephen H. Grant in his new book, “Collecting Shakespeare: the Story of Henry and Emily Folger.” Since 2007, Grant has been scouring archives, both at the Folger Library and at 30 other sites in the US and UK, and the result is an engrossing account of these two inveterate Shakespeare enthusiasts. Using letters and other original source documents, he uncovers their family and educational backgrounds, Henry’s successful career at Standard Oil, their mutual passion for A new book tells the story of Henry and Emily Folger, who founded the Folger Shakespeare Library.

collecting all things Shakespeare, and the building of their eponymous library. As Grant observes, “the story of the Folgers is a double love story; first about the love between Henry and Emily Folger and, second, about their common love of Shakespeare and his writings.”

Stephen Grant is a senior fellow at the Association for Diplomatic Studies and Training and author of “Peter Strickland: New London Shipmaster, Boston Merchant, First Consul to Senegal.” He will deliver the Overbeck Lecture on Tues., Apr. 8, at 7:30 p.m., at the Naval Lodge Hall, 330 Pennsylvania Ave SE. For more, visit www.stephengrant.com.

The Ongoing Story

“So, lemme see if I’ve got this straight,” says a confused human in “War of the Seasons: In the third book of a young adult fantasy series, elves fight an epic The Hunter,” battle to save their world. the third installment in Janine K. Spendlove’s young adult fantasy trilogy. “Winter is a big, bad villain who wants to destroy everything and everyone…and the only person who can stop him is the Hunter—which means that when he takes Winter out, he’ll become the new host for Winter, which means he’s not going to die, just become some freaky powerful faerie…” “Yes,” concedes Story, the novel’s teenage heroine, “that pretty much covers it.” Spendlove’s enchanted land of Ailionora, into which Story stumbled from earth in Book One, is inhabited by elves, gnomes, dryads, dwarves, and centaurs, all at the mercy of four powerful immortals whose magic rules the seasons. When the Winter King runs amok, it is up to the elves and their allies to mount a war to save their world. Thrust into the middle of the battle are Story, whose Dreamwalking abilities enable her to monitor enemy activity, and her elfin fiancé Eirnin, whose prowess as a hunter makes him Ailionora’s best hope. The course of the war threatens both their lives and their love, but as the indomitable

Story tells him at a low point, “Destiny is what YOU decide.” Spendlove’s imaginary world is totally believable and her thoughtfullyprovided appendices explaining the terminology, history, and cultural aspects of Ailionora allow readers to join her there. Despite the war—and those nasty trolls, who would as soon eat you as look at you—you may never want to leave. Janine Spendlove is a KC-130 pilot in the United States Marine Corps and, in addition to the “War of the Seasons” trilogy, is the author of several short stories published in various science fiction and fantasy anthologies. Visit her at www.janinespendlove.com.

A Woman’s Place Celebrate Women’s History Month by giving your favorite girl (or boy) a new book about our female lawmakers at the US Capitol. “A Woman in the House (and Senate)” by Chicago writer Ilene Cooper presents a lively account of the history of women in the Senate and House of Representatives. From feisty Representative Mary Norton of the 1920s, who famously declared “I am no lady, I’m a Member of Congress!’ to the current crop of female legislators, Cooper charts the highlights of women’s increasing political clout and the hundreds of courageous women who helped make it happen.

With lots of photos, clever illustrations by Elizabeth Baddeley, and a thoughtful foreword by former US Senator Olympia Snowe, this thoroughly readable and inspirational history belongs on every kid’s bookshelf. And for a more personal view on women in Congress, hear former US Rep. Patricia Schroeder in a discussion at the Library of Congress, March 4, 2 p.m.

This Month on the Hill The Hill Center presents Amie Parnes and Jonathan Allen, authors of the new book about Hillary Clinton, “HRC,” in conversation with Bill Press, March 20, 7 p.m., and co-sponsors with PEN/Faulkner a conversation with author Phil Klay, whose forthcoming series of short stories, “Redeployment,” deals with the front lines of war, March 14, 7 p.m. Register at hillcenterdc.org or 202-549-4172 The Folger Shakespeare Library hosts a PEN/Faulkner discussion with authors Amy Tan and Deborah Tannen, March 3, 7:30 p.m., and a reading by poets Joy Harjo and Evie Shockley, March 24, 7:30 p.m. Go to www.folger. edu/whatson or call 202-544-7077. At the Library of Congress, Poet Laureate Natasha Trethewey announces the winner of the annual Witter Brynner Fellowship followed by a reading from his or her work, March 26, 6:30 p.m., and authors Sam Lipsyte and Howard Norman celebrate the birthday of novelist Philip Roth with a reading and discussion, March 19, noon. For more, visit www.loc.gov. u Mark your calendars for the 2014 BookFest on Sunday, May 4, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Eastern Market!

The Poetic Hill by Karen Lyon

or more than fifteen years, Judy Leaver has been watching the seasons unfold from her light-filled living room on the north side of Lincoln Park. “That view has been my muse as I’ve written about what I see outside my window,” she writes. In addition to poetry, she writes essays, short stories, and a blog (“Literary Mileage”), and she recently contributed a “What a Trip” column to The Washington Post called “Friends on Foot in France.” She was selected to participate in the Jenny McKean Moore Community Workshop at George Washington University, under the tutelage of poet Rick Barot, and, more recently, in “Maneuvering the Poem,” a workshop with former U.S. Poet Laureate Billy Collins, as part of the Key West Literary Seminar.

Morning Sun in the Park Bare trees paint ribbons on the ground in the morning Suna latticework of shade on the rusty leaves and cold grass. Golden trees, not yet stripped, highlight black limbs that have already shed their robes of crimson, amber, and russet. Dogs trot across the park, exhale little puffs of breath in the chill. Their people follow, obedient, coffee in hand, breathing deeply. A white dog in a snappy red sweater breaks into a run, its owner follows close behind in matching red stocking hat. *** That same Sunlight dances through my window, to light up a basket of gourds in green stripes, blood orange, creamy yellow. Sunbeams flash through a prism and splash the walls with rainbow polka dots that cheer me on this cold morning. If you would like to have your poem considered for publication, please send it to klyon@literaryhillbookfest.org. (There is no remuneration.) u

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{health & fitness} Lavender Retreat Wellness Club A Unique Approach to Bodywork Services

by Pattie Cinelli

knew I was at the right place on Pennsylvania Ave., SE by the color of the paint on the townhouse – gentle hues of purple and green. Inside Lavender Retreat is just what its name suggests – a place affording peace and quiet. Owner Jaime Bohl completely gutted a formerly worn-down townhouse and spent eight months renovating the space. Jaime has created a sanctuary on Capitol Hill, rooms filled with relaxing colors of mauve, soft green and violet, interesting artwork, gentle music and soothing yet subtle aromas that stimulate one’s senses. “When you walk inside Lavender Retreat I want you to walk away from all the noise in your daily life. I want a place where you can re-energize, find balance and listen to yourself,” said Jaime. “We all need a space to be able to feel who we are.” She said Lavender Retreat offers more than just a massage or facial. “You can get a good massage at a gym, but we offer a total sensory experience that promotes a lifestyle of balance. I want to give people a safe place to come in and rest.” Jaime grew up in Korea where she learned how to balance her energy through bodywork. Massage as a healing tool is an intrinsic part of the Korean culture. She said when she was going through a stressful time in her life she searched for a way to feel better. “I went back to tradition – massage.” She said she found a business that offered a package of massages, but “that’s all it was – an adequate massage.” She Lavender Retreat owner Jaime Bohl thought, “I could do this better.”

The entrance to Lavender Retreat sets a peaceful mood.

She opened her first Lavender Retreat Wellness Club in 2011 in Lake Ridge VA, but because she lives on the Hill, she wanted a business to serve the community in which she lives. How Lavender Retreat Membership Works Lavender Retreat provides a convenient way to incorporate bodywork regularly into your life. Services include massage, (Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, sports, pre-natal; hand massage, foot scrub reflexology, scalp massage,

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facial waxing, nutrition counseling, microdermabrasion, acupuncture and several types of facials. You can receive a one-time service, but there are advantages to becoming a member. Membership involves making a commitment to one or two treatments a months for a year at a discounted rate of about 22%. There is no sign-up fee and no membership fee. Membership is open to individual members and corporate groups. There is no cancellation fee after six months. Sessions may be gifted or saved. Besides the discount, the major advantage of becoming a member is that you commit to making yourself and your health and your mental relaxation a priority.

Benefits of Regular Bodywork Many look upon getting bodywork done (massage, facial, reflexology, acupuncture) as a luxury. We get a massage occasionally and consider it an expensive treat. Yet, bodywork is no more expensive than a dinner and a movie. It is cheaper than most theater tickets! We all want to stay healthy and feel good until the day we die. According to Body Sense magazine, evidence shows that the more massages you have the better you will feel. Experts estimate that 80 to 90 percent of disease is stress-related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. Bodywork can counteract the negative

effects of stress and these benefits are increased by regular sessions. Massage has been proven to increase circulation, stimulate the flow of lymph (the body’s natural defense system) against toxic invaders; relax and soften injured and overused muscles; increase joint flexibility; release endorphins, the body’s natural painkiller; improve range of motion, improve sleep and decrease low back pain. It has also been found to relieve pain of migraines. Just a five minute hand massage has been shown to reduce cortisol levels. Massage is increasingly offered along with traditional western medical treatment for a wide range of medical conditions and situations. Searching for disease in one’s body is one approach to being healthy. Helping to prevent mental and physical disease from taking hold through regular bodywork can make those annual checkups more positive. And isn’t just relaxing and taking care of yourself worth doing? For more information about Lavender Retreat Wellness Club log onto: www.Lavender-Retreat.com. Pattie Cinelli is a fitness professional who specializes in weight loss, pre-post natal exercise, core, strength and balance training and yoga and Pilates. She has been writing her health and fitness column for more than 20 years. To contact her email: fitness@pattiecinelli.com. u

Take Control of Your Health in 2014! It’s easier than you think.

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{health & fitness}

Not Your Mother’s Fitness Class

Colleen Jolly, Owner of Pole Pressure Capitol Hill, Opens Up About Her New Venture and Life’s Challenges by Meghan Markey

Colleen Jolly. Photo: Lakin Jones

lace up my sneakers and head to the gym. In class, we warm up with light stretches, and before too long, I am breaking a sweat as music pumps through the studio. Did I mention I am swooping around a 12-foot chrome pole? I’m at the Results Gym in SE, home of Pole Pressure Capitol Hill, and owner and professional pole dancer Colleen Jolly is teaching me the basics of pole fitness – from how to seductively walk around the pole, to a controlled swing, and finally, a pirouette with a deceptively complicated twist of the wrist around the pole. This isn’t your mother’s aerobics class. What sets pole fitness apart from other classes is how dynamic it is, incorporating exercise with elements of dance and performance. Jolly is the perfect ambassador and cheerleader for “pole,” as it is called: intelligent, gorgeous, and incredibly strong.

Jolly is also an accomplished businesswoman with offices in the U.S. and the U.K., an artist, international speaker and trainer, current president of the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop (CHAW), and a docent at the Corcoran Gallery of Art. That this corporate dynamo ended up opening her own Pole Pressure and becoming a professional pole dancer was completely unplanned. Her story attests to Jolly’s abundance of self-motivation and pushing through challenges, most notably a devastating injury that occurred early in her college career. Originally from New York, Jolly grew up in Florida, and in 1999, moved to the DC area to attend Georgetown University. An ambitious person by nature, she double majored in English and studio art, with a minor in computer science. She began interning at 24 Hour Company, a company that helps businesses win contracts through proposal design, graphics, desktop publishing, and marketing. In 2001, her sophomore year, she was riding her motorcycle home from her internship and was hit by a utility van. The accident completely shattered her right leg. She underwent five surgeries, and at one point, her doctors wanted to amputate the leg. She refused the procedure, and, unable to afford expensive rehab, just “figured it out. I was 19, and I had things to do.”

She was in a wheelchair for six months, and then on crutches, and had to use a cane for a year. It was years before she could walk normally. Later, she is inverted five feet up the pole and flips around to demonstrate the “Superman” move, extending her body completely horizontally in the air grasping the pole with her thighs. Pretty impressive for someone who was told she would never walk again. Mostly recovered from her accident, she moved to Capitol Hill in 2003 and was interested in pursuing more leadership roles. She answered an ad in the CHAW newsletter for a position on their board and quickly became secretary, and later was made president. In 2004, a year after she graduated, 24 Hour Company made her a partner. By 2008, she had opened their U.K. offices and had developed an impressive professional resume, traveling and speaking at conferences around the world. She became interested in taking dance, and began Bollywood dance classes after being exposed to it at a Georgetown alumni event. In 2011, a friend she met through dance class suggested they take a pole dancing class. Not one to back down from a new chal-

lenge, she agreed. “We went to our first class, and I got none of it. Absolutely none of it, I was a complete miserable failure. I got home, and the next day, I was covered in bruises. I looked like I got in a bar fight and lost. But for some reason, this translated into fun, and I just kept going.” Fast forward to 2014, when she took on a franchise opportunity through Pole Pressure and re-opened Pole Pressure Capitol Hill in Results Gym, while still managing 24 Hour Company and sitting as president of CHAW. Teaching pole has complemented her corporate career in unexpected ways. “At my other company, we help in a more business-to-business way. We help people win contracts so we’re helping people keep their jobs, maybe get new jobs, but I never get to meet those people. Whereas here, I get to see people achieve. Pole is really special that way,” Jolly explains. And yes, pole is a sport. Just as in dance or gymnastics, there are complicated moves that require an extreme

Students in a Pole Pressure class at Results Gym. Photo: Lakin Jones

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amount of athleticism and years of work to master. That being said, anyone can learn pole, no matter what shape you are in (good news for me). “A lot of pole folks talk about how there is something about it that is absolutely terrifying. You are hanging by a toenail upside down on this tiny little pole in your underwear, so, if you can conquer fear in this, you can use that feeling give you strength in your life,” she says. However, many people can’t get past the slightly wicked reputation of the pole as an exotic dance prop. Jolly has had to defend pole fitness to friends, potential students, and she was even rejected for a small business loan despite having stellar business plan. Competitive pole dancers have put in a bid to be included in the Olympics, and it has been included in primetime, mainstream shows such as Dancing with the Stars and America’s Got Talent. “It’s more cirque du soleil than strip club, but it’s a constant battle everyday to help folks understand – it can be sexy, if you want it to be sexy, but it’s also incredibly athletic,” she says. With so many things on her plate, Jolly calls this year her “perfect storm,” but she says she wouldn’t have it any other way. As I am awkwardly attempting to execute this dratted pirouette, she tells me it took her a year to master it and I don’t doubt it – Jolly has worked hard all of her life to accomplish her goals, and Pole Pressure Capitol Hill is just another example of her can-do spirit. Pole Pressure Capitol Hill is located in Results Gym, 315 G St. SE. For more information or to sign up for classes, visit www.polepressure.com. u

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Rabies in Our Backyard

by Brittany Cartlidge, DVM

magine for a moment that your dog is out in your yard and you hear a weird noise. You go to investigate and find your dog and a raccoon locked in mortal combat. You are able to separate your dog from the raccoon and the police are able to capture the raccoon. Thankfully you were not bitten, but your dog was. A few days later, the health department calls to tell you that the raccoon was rabid. It wasn’t until this happened to my best friend and her dog that I realized how little the general public is aware of this very serious disease. The stereotypical image of a drooling aggressive rabid animal at-

tacking a person or animal in a wooded area seems hard to imagine in an urban area like DC. However, in 2009, there were 57 confirmed rabid animals in DC alone (DCDOH: www.doh.dc.gov/service/vaccination-bitesand-rabies). The majority were raccoons, but other infected animals included cats, bats and a fox. The majority were captured in northwest DC and southwest DC east of the Anacostia River. All mammals are susceptible to rabies. It is transmitted via saliva introduced into bite wounds, open wounds or mucous membranes. It travels through the nervous system and is al-

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most always fatal. The first signs of rabies can include fever, anxiety and restlessness. Excessive saliva production, aggression, mental dullness and an inability to swallow are some other symptoms. These signs can occur several days to weeks after being infected with rabies. The best prevention against rabies is vaccinating your pet and avoiding contact with wildlife. Limiting the stray animal population is also important. All dogs and cats in DC are required to be vaccinated for rabies. An animal can be given the rabies vaccine at 12 weeks, but it is typically given at 14-16 weeks of age. The first rabies vaccine is good for one year. The next year, a rabies vaccine can be given as a one year or three year vaccine, depending on the type of vaccine and species of your pet. It is very important to keep your pet’s rabies vaccine current. Dogs in the District are required to be licensed and they need proof of both rabies and distemper vaccinations. So what happens if your pet is bitten by a rabid animal? In the case of my friend’s dog June, she was current on her rabies vaccine. However, she still needed to have her rabies vaccine immediately boostered again and had to be quarantined on my friend’s property for 45 days. Rabies in a vaccinated animal is very rare. If your pet has never been vaccinated for rabies and they are bitten by a rabid animal, they may be euthanized immediately and their remains tested for rabies or they may need to be quarantined in your property for six months. If your animal bites a person or another animal, they will need to be confined and observed for 10 days, regardless of their vaccination status. They are not given a rabies vaccine

during that time, even if they are overdue, since you would not want to confuse a fever from getting a vaccine with an early symptom of rabies. If you are bitten by an animal, thoroughly clean the wound with soap and water and contact your physician immediately. People sometimes ask me about doing a rabies titer as a way to either prove that their dog is vaccinated or as a way to avoid giving the vaccine. Unfortunately, that is not the purpose of the titer. The rabies titer, called the FAVN (fluorescent antibody virus neutralization) test, measures the response of an animal’s immune system to the rabies vaccine. It is required by many regions (like Hawaii) and countries (like Australia) that are rabies free, in order to lessen the length of time an animal is quarantined upon arrival. It is not a substitute for a current rabies vaccine and does not provide legal proof of vaccination. Another common misconception is that indoor-only cats do not need to be vaccinated for rabies. This can be a serious mistake if your cat bites someone or an animal like a bat gets into your home. Avoid the headache of dealing with the fallout of an unvaccinated animal biting or being bit by keeping your cat’s rabies vaccine up to date. I hope the cautionary tail of June and the rabid raccoon reminds us all that rabies is out there and keeping your pet vaccinated is an important part of their preventative health care. Dr. Brittany Cartlidge is an associate veterinarian at AtlasVet (The Atlas District Veterinary Hospital) 1326 H ST NE. 202-552-8600. Dr. Cartlidge graduated from the University of Florida School of Veterinary Medicine in 2008. u

{kids & family} N O T E B O O K Kites of Asia Family Day at Air and Space Thrill to the beauty and artistry of kites on display and in the air. Visit their display of kites and discover the diversity of kites from across Asia. Find out more about how kites are made in one of their hands-on stations. Learn how kites helped the Wright brothers develop the first airplane. Marvel

by William Willerby

at the grace of kites being flown indoors. Saturday, Mar. 22, 10-3. National Air and Space Museum, Independence Ave. at 6th St. SW. airandspace.si.edu

Music on the Hill Spring Break and Summer Camps Spring Break Rock Band Camp is Apr. 14-18 and is for ages 7-10. The camp

will meet Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Early dropoff and aftercare is available. $225. Summer camps are June 2327, Ukulele and Percussion Exploration Camps (Uke in morning); June 30-July 3, Classical Kids; July 7-July 11, Rock Band (ages 10-15); July 21-25, Ukulele and Percussion Exploration Camps (Percussion in morning); July 28-Aug. 1, Rock Band (ages

Registration Open for Capital Hill Little League

egistration is currently open for boys and girls Little League baseball and softball for ages 6-14. While the Majors baseball division registration closed Feb. 26, registration for all other divisions is open until Mar. 12, with the first largescale workouts taking place the weekend of March 8-9. The first full week of practices will start on Mar. 24, with the opening day of games on Saturday, Apr. 5. Capitol Hill Little League is growing quickly, with more than 450 kids playing in 2013. Register at chlldc.org. Businesses interested in sponsoring a Capitol Hill Little League team should email chllsponsorship@gmail.com.

Photo: Krister Holladay

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7-10); Aug. 4-9, Rock Band (ages 10-15); Aug. 11-Aug. 15, Classical Kids; and Aug. 18-Aug. 11, Ukulele and Percussion Exploration Camps (Ukulele in morning). Music on the Hill, 1453 Pennsylvania Ave. SE 2nd floor. 202-733-3158. musiconthehilldc.com

Family Purim Carnival 2014 There’s no place better than the DCJCC to celebrate the joyous holiday of Purim. Come one, come all and come in costume! They will have carnival games, performances, prizes, a costume contest, yummy treats and a new Purim shpiel! Bring a box of mac-and-cheese to use as a grogger during the shpiel, and they will donate it to a food bank afterward. Price per family $15-$20. Sunday, Mar. 16, 10 a.m.-noon. at the Washington DCJCC, 1529 16th St. NW. 202777-3267. washingtondcjcc.org

Ward 6 City Council Candidate Forum on Education Issues Students from Eliot-Hine, Stuart-Hobson, and Jefferson are helping plan the forum being held on Thursday, Mar. 6, 6:30-8 p.m. at StuartHobson Middle School, 410 E St. NE. Students formulate the first set of questions for the candidates. The forum is moderated by Emma Brown, education columnist for the Washington Post.

Shake Up Your Saturdays: The Queen and Other Women at the Folger On Mar. 8, 10-11 a.m., discover how Shakespeare pleased the Queen herself through his portrayal of powerful women characters on the stage. This program is recommended for ages 6-12. It’s free but reserve your spot. Folger Shakespeare Library, E. Capitol St. SE. 202-544-7077. folger.edu

National Cherry Blossom Festival Family Days at National Building Museum On Saturday, Mar. 22, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sunday, Mar. 23, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., celebrate the

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opening of Washington’s cherry blossom season at this ninth annual family festival for kids of all ages, featuring hands-on activities, interactive art demonstrations, and performances celebrating Japanese arts and design. This is a free, drop-in program. National Building Museum, 401 F St. NW. 202-272-2448. nbm.org

challenges.epals.com Think about a real world problem and come up with a solution. If you are 5-18 years old, this challenge is for you. Check out the age groups and categories. Deadline is Apr. 11, 2014. ePals is a platform designed to promote meaningful teaching and learning, showing teachers and students how to use technology strategically to promote the fundamental learning principles essential for academic achievement. This involves creating a safe and secure content-rich environment that challenges students and educators to research smartly, collaborate with other learners of all ages, think critically, problem-solve, and communicate their learning using various web 2.0 tools. It is this way that technology serves deep learning and is not simply an add-on in the classroom.

March Movies for Kids at the National Gallery of Art The Secret of Kells (ages 7, up) is shown on Saturday, Mar. 15, at 10:30 a.m. and Sunday, Mar. 16, at 11:30 a.m. in the East Building Concourse, Auditorium. Join them for this exquisitely animated story about the famed Book of Kells. The setting is Ireland in the ninth century, where the old Kells Abbey in a remote woodland area is home to 12-year-old Brendan. He and the monks have been instructed by Brendan’s authoritarian uncle to strengthen the fortifications in order to protect the abbey from a Viking invasion. (Tomm Moore and Nora Twomey, France/ Belgium/Ireland, 2009, 75 minutes) The Rooster Trademark Paper (ages 9, up) is shown on Saturday, Mar. 22, at 10:30 a.m. and Sunday, Mar. 23, at 11:30 a.m. in the East Building Concourse, Auditorium. When Amir, a young boy who dreams of becoming an artist, sees an advertisement for a visual arts competi-

tion he is inspired to enter. Although he works hard selling newspapers and making deliveries for a local store, he struggles to purchase the costly Rooster Trademark paper that all entrants must use to qualify for the contest. (Maryam Milani, Iran, 2012, 93 minutes) Nature Unfolds (ages 4, up) is shown on Saturday, Mar. 29 at 10:30 a.m. and Sunday, Mar. 30 at 11:30 a.m. in the East Building Concourse, Auditorium. As the seasons change, Earth’s canvas is adorned with new colors and textures. Join them for a series of animated shorts celebrating nature’s unfolding beauty. Approximately 60 minutes. Shown in collaboration with the Environmental Film Festival in the Nation’s Capital. nga.gov

Family-Friendly “Nowruz: A Persian New Year Celebration” at the Sackler On Saturday, Mar. 8, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., dance, play, and feast your way into the Persian New Year at the Freer and Sackler Galleries. The museums’ sixth annual Nowruz celebration features free attractions for all ages--including Haft Sin table displays, “fire” jumping, chess and backgammon, cartoons from Iran, musical performances, stories by Xanthe Gresham, hands-on activities, and traditional Persian food. Cartoons from Iran run from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. in the Meyer Auditorium. Sackler and Freer Galleries, Independence Ave. SW between 10th and 12th Sts. SW. 202-633-4880. asia.si.edu

Race4Respect Kids’ Dash This inaugural Race for Respect 5k and Kids’ Dash 1K will be held at Freedom Plaza on Pennsylvania Ave. NW between 12th and 14th Sts. on Mar. 30. Registration closes at 8:30 a.m. Five DC metro Down syndrome affiliate groups are collaborating to empower, support and enrich the lives of those with Down syndrome. Proceeds from the Race4Respect Kids’ Dash provide opportunities and resources for families of children with Down syndrome and adults with Down syndrome throughout the area. The Kids’ Dash registration fee is $15. crowdrise.com/raceforrespect

Enc Empowouraging e Imaginrment and a Safe ation in an Enviro d Caring For Chnment ild Ages 3 ren -9

From June 23 - August 15, 2014 Younger children will enjoy performances, trips, picnics in the park, water play (ages 3-5). Older ones (ages 6-9) will enjoy science classes, field trips, Labyrinth games, fitness classes, arts, weekly visits to the pool, gardening and cooking classes and more.

Registration Begins February 3 Stop by Maury Elementary School between 3:30-6:00pm and ask for Tina Thomas or Tia Burke to pick up your application. Or download documents at www.politepiggysdaycamp.com and bring to Maury ES. You can also mail applications to PO Box 31215, WDC 20030.

Flexible Scheduling: ages 3-5: ages 6-9:

Weekly $315 $345

Whole Day $60 $69

Half Day $41 $46

Early Bird Discount 5% OFF Sibling Discount - 25% OFF

Drop In $66 $71

(any week of camp paid in full by 5/9/14)

More Info: 240-396-8957 ask for VanNessa politepiggysdaycamp.com politepiggysdaycamp@yahoo.com

“Kids’ Space” Summer Program June 2 - August 15, 2014 Crafts, creative movement, swimming, field trips and more! Children 4 and 5

Where Kids Learn To Love School. Cooperative preschool for 2 to 4 year olds Full and part-time schedules Convenient Location Dynamic staff Play-based curriculum

Open House: 1st Thurs. of Every Month, 10am-11am

Over 40 Years on Capitol Hill 337 North Carolina Ave, SE | 202-543-5372

www.thehillpreschool.org | thehillps@verizon.net

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Photo: Ryan Cree

Tyler Elementary’s Alchemy of Great Taste

he Alchemy of Great Taste on Mar. 8, 7-11 p.m., in Eastern Market’s North Hall, is Tyler Elementary’s flagship fundraiser that offers a fun-filled casual evening of great food from local restaurants paired with a range of beers and wines geared toward all palates. The event will also feature live music and dancing, original artwork by Tyler Elementary students, raffle and auction items and much more. $50 online and $60 at the door. Ticket price includes event admission, commemorative tasting glass and unlimited food and beverage. Ticket amount over $20 is tax-deductible. You must be 21 and over to attend. tylerelementary.net/greattaste

Smithsonian Discovery Theater’s March Productions “Amelia and Her Big Red Plane” with Dinorock Productions is on Mar. 13-14 at 10:15 a.m.; 11:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. at the Air & Space Museum. Amelia Earhart was an adventurer--and this interactive puppet show puts adventurous kids right beside her as little Amelia builds her own roller coaster in the backyard, takes off in her first plane

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(right over their heads), and flies across the Atlantic. The show has airplanes that soar and puppets that sing as it brings daring Amelia vibrantly to life. “Live! Amazing Animals of the Rainforest” is on Mar. 20-21 at 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. at the Ripley Center, Smithsonian. Meet Dexter the lemu--who loves hanging upside down, eating blackberries, and helping spread the word about his native habitat--when Leesburg Animal Park brings the rainforest to Dis-

covery Theater. They’ll also meet other amazing critters who live there. It could be Slinky, a 7-foot Columbian red-tailed boa, Charlie the iguana, or hissing cockroaches that can scare off predators with a sound as loud as a lawn mower. We’ll learn why this South American ecosystem is so important to our planet’s health--and how we can all help preserve it. Both productions are for ages 5-10. $3-$8. For tickets and information call 202-633-8700 or visit discoverytheater.org.

The First Hebrew Language Immersion Public Charter School in DC

Accepting Applications for SY14-15 Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, Grade 1, and Grade 2

y Tuesday r e v e ld e h es om Open HousThursday afternoon fr d morning an ecember-March D

2014 Summer Camp Casting Call Budding Scientists, Picasso Protégés, Environmental Enthusiasts, Curious Cooks and Crafters • Ages 30 months to 6 years old • June 23 – August 22 • Monday-Friday, 8:30am – 3:00pm • $300 per one-week session • After camp care, 3:00pm – 6:00pm (additional fee) Explore the World with Us Energetic young explorers will experience the culture and lifestyle of South America, Northern Africa, and Northern Europe through: · Creative Cooking & Crafting · Hands–on Science Experiments · Music and Movement · Outdoor Exploration

Arlington Campus 1601 S. 13th Rd Arlington, VA 22204

Now Enrolling for the 2014-2015 School Year Schedule an observation to see our certified teachers and child-centered approach to kindergarten readiness in action!

Math | Science | Language Character Development

Old Towne Alexandria Campus 688 N St. Asaph Street Alexandria, VA 22314

Capitol Hill Campus 1325 Maryland Ave NE Washington, DC 20002

To apply visit: myschooldc.org

*With the new common application, families must rank order their school choices. Each child will only receive one offer of admission in the lottery. If Sela PCS is your family’s first choice, you should rank order Sela PCS FIRST. Application Deadline: March 3, 2014

FREE Before and After School Program Small Class Sizes with 2 teachers in each classroom Student Shuttle available with stops at: Eastern Market, 16th and Q, Ft. Totten Metro

Learn more: SelaPCS.org 6015-17 Chillum Place, NE Washington, DC 20011 202-670-SELA (7352) Follow us: @SelaPCS

Like us: SelaPCS

www.nestars.net • 703.945.0408 • northeaststarsmontessori.nes@gmail.com

March 2014 H 149

S U M M E R C A M P S

LEGO Build at the National Building Museum

Camps for ages 5-15 include: Creative Cultures Dance Camp

Movement Camp

Fine Arts

African Dance and Drum

Applied Creativity

For more information or to register please visit www.joesmovement.org or call 301.699.1819

Adult and Youth classes available year round!

On Saturday, Mar. 8, 2-4 p.m., join staff from Play-Well Teknologies at the Museum for an exciting LEGO Build as you discover how to make strong, tall towers. Design buildings that you think should be added to our nation’s capital. $25 per child. Free for adults accompanying children. Recommended for ages 6, up. National Building Museum, 401 F St. NW. 202-2722448. nbm.org

“Readers to the Rescue” Online Game Encourages Young People to Read A new interactive game, called “Readers to the Rescue,” is now available on the Library of Congress’s reading-promotion website, Read.gov. The game, developed by students at the Laycock Center for Creativity & Collaboration at Brigham Young University, is a visual game set inside a library inhabited by a cast of storybook characters, among them Pinocchio, Humpty-Dumpty and Sleeping Beauty. Users are asked to “rescue” characters who have been stolen from the book’s pages by placing other book “heroes” in the blank spaces in a story, which results in one of 36 possible short animated films. At the end, readers are able to unlock a classic children’s online book to read. A goal of this initiative is to recognize the modern, media-driven world children are growing up in and that reading online, or in any format should be at the center of literacy efforts.

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Saturday Morning at the National Free Performances for Children On Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. there are free live performances for children in the Helen Hayes Gallery. Tickets are required and distributed first comefirst seated. Tickets are distributed 1/2 hour prior to performance. One ticket per person in line. The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave., NW. 202-783-3372. On Mar. 1, Andres Saklquero-Uno, Dos Tres,con Andres; Mar. 8, Laureen O’Neill James Irish Dance; Mar. 15, Rich Potter, Bert the Nerd; Mar. 22, Bright Star Theatre, Jack’s Adventure; Mar. 29, Tim Marrone, Clowning Around with Shakespeare; and Apr. 5, Curtis Blues, Delta Blues.

Blossom Kids (new this year) Interactive Games and Presentations At nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/in-the-community/blossomkids, kids can learn all about the National Cherry Blossom Festival and gift of trees from Tokyo to Washington, DC through fun, interactive presentations. They can also learn about symbols from Japanese culture and create scenes from the National Cherry Blossom Festival through coloring pages. Finally, they can download and print their own games and puzzles.

The Adventures of Robin Hood at the Kennedy Center Updated, inventive, and hilarious, this US premiere is unlike

any Robin Hood you’ve seen before! Scotland’s acclaimed theater company Visible Fictions returns to bring this classic tale to life with a few actors and lots of imagination. Recommended for age 8 and up. Mar. 28 and Apr. 4 at 7 p.m.; Mar. 29 and 30, Apr. 5 and 6 at 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. $20. Kennedy Center, 2700 F St. NW. 202-4168000. kennedy-center.org

LearnLead’s Perfectly Punctual Campaign LearnLead’s Perfectly Punctual Campaign supports positive attendance habits from the outset of schooling. PPC uses punctuality, the good news about attendance, as the impetus for positive reinforcement and playfulness to change hearts, minds and routines. This twogeneration program engages children daily in monitoring their own attendance, honors parents monthly for getting their children to school on time and translates attendance data into management information for school administrators. LearnLead’s work is research based and integrates brain research on the centrality of language development to learning, with knowledge from the fields of early childhood, adult, and museum education and developmental psychology. LearnLead.org u

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School Notes by Susan Braun Johnson

Eliot-Hine News

Mr. Tony’s Adventure Camp at E-H

cians into the classroom, exposes students to interactive projects and hands-on experiences that Beloved Mr. Tony’s Adventure Camp (advenmake science and math fun and interesting. This turecampdc.com) has found a new summer home Eliot-Hine’s library and media center was positive exposure, in turn, encourages students at Eliot-Hine! Miner, the usual location, will be the focus of Martin Luther King’s Day of Service to pursue science and math electives throughout closed for repairs; Mr. Tony needed a place with on Jan. 20, and on that day, parents, teachers, their middle and high school careers, and beyond. facilities (bathroom, water, power, easy access to friends, and prospective parents came to help “The ReSET program really sparks the “scitransportation, ect.), and entist” inside my students,” said Amidon-Bowen E-H will have another third grade teacher Dawn Gray. “The hands-on way to connect with the Capitol Hill community. scientific investigations are engaging and the stuIt’s a “win-win”! Principal dents are full of questions.” Young will provide Mr. The ReSET volunteers spend six hours of Tony with highly-recomclassroom time each term with the students, buildmended 8th graders to ing relationships and positive connections. They serve as Junior Staff, who design experiments, activities, and field trips that will receive stipends for allow students to experience the world around their work. (They will not them through the lens of scientific inquiry. count for the staff to stuReSET came to Amidon-Bowen through dent ratio, but Mr. Tony’s its connection to the Environmental Protection camp will surely be a Agency, which previously was headquartered great first job for them!) in the Waterside Mall. The EPA’s proximity to Learn more about Amidon-Bowen resulted in a long history of EPA Eliot-Hine with Tuesday volunteers contributing at the school. Tours each week from 9 The volunteers’ involvement extends beto 10:30 a.m. and 1 to 3 yond classroom instruction. Indeed, ReSET enp.m. Eliot-Hine is an IB courages its volunteers to share with students the Candidacy Middle Years experiences and motivation that drew them into Programme science and engineering fields, and to discuss the Eliot-Hine’s rebooted library ribbon cutting ceremony was attended by Councilmember (and mayoral candidate) Tommy Wells, who was interviewed by Seventh-grader Simone Smith. -EH parent, Heather schooling such careers require, and the kinds of Photo: K. Campbell. Schoell. Eliot-Hine Middle School, reconfigure the library. ANC 6A Commissioner 1830 Constitution Ave., www.elioCalvin Ward came, too. They re-shelved books, thinemiddleschool.org. @EliotHhung inspirational quotes and art, and helped ine, facebook.com/EliotHineMS. define meeting spaces and reading spaces. Then on Feb. 11, E-H Principal Tynika Young held Amidon-Bowen News a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate their Science Education Comes new space and new books, attended by Counto Life cilmember Tommy Wells, Stephanie Deutsch of For the last five years, students the Capitol Hill Community Foundation (supat Amidon-Bowen Elementary porters of Eliot-Hine), Joe Weedon representing School have received a unique and Companies for Causes, feeder school principals inspirational addition to their sciRachel Skerritt of Eastern and Carolyne Albertence education thanks to the ReGarvey of Maury, and many others. Both Ms. SET program. Skerritt and Ms. Young talked about the need to ReSET, which brings retired align programs and the importance of the strong scientists, engineers and techniAmidon-Bowen Students do Hands-On ReSet Projects IB curriculum.

Library Focus Of Day of Service

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APPLICATIONS BEING ACCEPTED FOR THE 2014-2015 SCHOOL YEAR Pre-K 3, Pre-K 4, Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade

Building on our strong foundation as an early childhood program

Information / Open House Sessions on the Following Thursdays, 9:30 am-10:30 am*:

March 20 & 27 April 24 May 1 *You must register to attend, limit of 20 people per session. Call (202) 545-0515 to register.

Apply for admissions at: www.myschooldc.org 1st round application deadline March 3rd. 2nd round applications accepted March 4–May 15.

Maury Elementary News Science Expo Despite discouragingly-cold weather, over 400 visitors attended this event. Exhibitors and handson activities included bee-keeper Toni Burnham (hive and honey sticks), Master Astronomer Guy Brandenburg from the National Capital Astronomers, (views of Jupiter through a high-powered

Bridges PCS is an expanding elementary school growing to serve grades Pre-K–5th by 2017-2018.

• Before & After Care • Small classroom size and well trained staff • Individual planning for each student • Hands-on and project-based curriculum

www.bridgespcs.org 1250 Taylor Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011 p: 202.545.0515 e: info@bridgespcs.org

Free and open to all DC residents. Tuition paid by non-residents.

Viewing the night sky at Maury ES

jobs that become available to them as a result of that education. ReSET’s John Meagher is currently leading his second program in Gray’s classroom. He sends her vocabulary words relevant to the day’s lesson ahead of time and she posts them on the board for students before he arrives. “As a teacher, I appreciate how well organized the lessons and materials are. Every student has a job to do and no one ever feels left out,” said Gray. -Lucy Rojansky. http://profiles.dcps.dc.gov/amidon-bowen+elementary+school.

Accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools Voted Best Preschool in DC, City Paper Readers Poll 2013!

www.bridgespcs.org telescope he made himself!), Labyrinth (games and puzzles), District Architecture Center (gumdrop and toothpick structures), National Forest Service (live raptors and “milkweed mudballs” to start monarch butterfly way-stations), engineer Eric Donald (3-D printer), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (nautical charting and water analysis), National Science Foundation (chemistry experiment), Living Classrooms (bridge building), DC Department of the Environment (bird feeders and live amphibians), Army Education Outreach Program (night vision lab), and many others. If this sounds like fun, it was, and too good to miss. This is an annual event, open to children of all ages. Keep your eyes peeled for the announcement so you can attend next year. The Expo was organized by our Think Tank Teacher/STEM Coordinator, Vanessa Ford, with help from Maury faculty, staff and families. To view a slide show, visit http://maurythinktank.blogspot. com/2014_01_01_archive.html. Way to go, Ms. George!

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Fourth-grade teacher, Jennifer George, was invited to give a talk on data literacy at a national conference of the Data Quality Campaign. She spoke on how assessment and behavioral data can be applied to improve student performance. Use of these techniques placed Maury second in growth on the DC CAS this past year. Ms. George was the only current classroom teacher to give a presentation and we are enormously proud of her.-Elizabeth Nelson. Maury Elementary, 1250 Constitution Ave., NE. mauryelementary.com; Facebook and Twitter.

Capitol Hill Montessori at Logan Annual Yard Sale Join CHML at their Annual Yard Sale on March 29 starting at 8 a.m. Hidden treasures to be found!

Merci’ Thank you to our wonderful French teacher, Madame Hylton, and all of the students and parents that helped to make Crepe Night a success. Congratulations to the students who performed so well, showcasing their knowledge of the French language, dance music and history. And thank you to all of the parents who provided scrumptious homemade crepes for all! As we continue CHML’s annual giving campaign, we want to thank February’s matching sponsors, TrueTandem and Fulcrum Properties for their generous support. Consider CHML in the 2014-15 DCPS lottery! In addition to our current PS-6th grade offerings, CHML will be adding a 7th grade in 2014-15 (and 8th grade the following year).! Capitol Hill Montessori at Logan School; 215 G St NE; http://capitolhillmontessorischool.org/ St. Peter’s Fr. Byrne at Bat!

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St. Peter School News St. Peter School Student Scholars Between this year’s snow and ice storms, St. Peter School students in grades four through eight were hunkered down laboring on projects for the annual science fair competition. Firstplace winners in each CHDS parents work together to design a utopian society in a social studies workshop. grade will move on to Photo: Lisa Sommers. the Washington DC Science, Technology, able to learn more about what it is like to be a Engineering and Math (STEM) Fair. St. Peter lawyer, architect, doctor, navy pilot, chef, trade School also participated in the regional compeassociation executive, military officer, Senate tition for the Department of Energy’s National staffer, journalist, and political party chairman. Science Bowl. Led by science instructor Mr. Needless to say, chatter of pursuing exciting caJohn Kendra, the St. Peter team emerged with reers continues to fill the classrooms! a third-place finish. Congratulations to team members Andy Beckham (Gr. 8), Shu Yu Offner St. Peter School Auction – (Gr. 7), Robby Hickmott (Gr. 7), Gabi Grimaldi Grand Slam Event! (Gr. 7), and Kendall Wienecke (Gr. 6)! On the Members of the St. Peter School commusame day, St. Peter School mathletes competed nity gathered for a championship party overlookin the Math Counts Chapter Competition at ing home plate at Nats stadium. Many thanks to St. Anselm’s Abbey. Our school was well repreauction co-chairs Suzanne Nelson and Lauren sented by Fiona Campbell Pawlowski for leading the lineup of a Grand Slam (Gr. 8), Delina Sheth (Gr. event. The extraordinary generosity of families, 8), Annie Schillo (Gr. 8) friends and neighbors enabled the school to raise and Nathaniel Rutledge additional funds for scholarships, improvements to (Gr. 7). Congratulations to the school facility and curriculum development.our scholars! Sally Aman St. Peter School, 422 3rd St, SE; www.

Exploring Careers at School During Catholic Schools Week, students gathered in the Costantino multipurpose room to hear from several professionals who left the office and came to school to share a little bit about what they do when they aren’t parenting. At the second annual career day, students were

stpeterschooldc.org

Capitol Hill Day School CHDS Curriculum Night – the Arts, Science, Math, Social Studies… and YEPs Capitol Hill Day School is a community of learners, including teachers who participate in workshops and conferences, and collaborate with other local progressive schools. Weekly faculty meetings are the foundation for our professional growth as a learning community. This year, faculty focused on strengthening

CAPITOL HILL CLUSTER SCHOOL

I AM THE CLUSTER curriculum connections across grades and subjects, working together to explore essential questions related to math, social studies, the arts, and science. At our February Curriculum Night, multigrade, multi-discipline faculty groups led parents in exploring how: patterns relate to the development of multiplicative reasoning across grade levels; the concept of community spirals through the grades from concrete to abstract; visual and Foussenie signed with SUNY Albany to study Computer Science and play defensive end. Photo: Bernie Dare. spatial patterns are explored from prekinderCapitol Hill Day School, 210 South garten to eighth grade; Carolina Ave, SE, www.chds.org students collect and organize data with increasing sophistication. A fifth session introduced parCollegiate ents to Year End Projects, or YEPs, a Academy News middle school innovation beginning 19 Students Sign with 6th graders this month. YEPs College Scholarships are interdisciplinary, student-guided On National Signing Day, 19 research projects in which students Friendship Collegiate Academy studelve deeply into topics of interest, dents signed athletic scholarships. progressively building research and In the past Friendship students have executive function skills, and working signed with Columbia, Maryland, with classroom teachers and assigned and Temple University. faculty and staff advisors. Students “These young men are being will also identify and interview an rewarded for hard work in the classexpert in their chosen topic. In late room and on the football field. On May on YEP Celebration Day, stubehalf of the Board of Trustees and dents will present their research and faculty, we are that confident they reflect on what they discovered about will carry on Friendship’s tradition themselves as learners during the proof being student athletes,” said Doncess. By 2017, YEPS will be part of ald Hense, chairman of Friendship the curriculum for all CHDS middle Public Charter School. school students, further preparing The students signed with the them for independent research in following colleges and universities: high school and beyond, and giving Jalen Tabor – University of them a roadmap for tapping into Florida; Foussenie Traore – SUNY their natural curiosity. Jane Angarola. Albany, Jonathan Haden—Univer-

Cluster School graduate LaNae Blagburn entered high school at the sophomore level for algebra and Spanish. Now earning her master’s degree in international development from American University, LaNae recalls that Cluster principals, teachers, and staff cared about every student. “The Cluster gave me an amazing education and prepared me for what I needed for life’s next step.” The Capitol Hill Cluster School is a unique DC public school in the heart of Capitol Hill. Our three campuses, from early childhood (PK3) through 8th grade, serve a diverse community of 1,200 inspired, and lifelong, learners.

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www.capitolhillclusterschool.org

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sity of Arizona; DaeJuan Funderburk – University of West Virginia; Damari Whitaker – Morgan State University; Marquese Meadow—Morgan State University; Malik Harris—Delaware State University; Tyron McDade—Towson University; Kelvit Barrett—West Virginia State University; Fahim Muhammad—Elizabeth City State University; Deandre Parker—Lincoln University; Robert Johnson—Lincoln University; Jamal Kingsberry—Lincoln University; Chigozie Onyewere—Iowa Western; Devonta Lee—Lincoln University/American International Col-

sota Ave, NE, for more information visit www. friendshipschools.org.

Friends Community School News Welcoming Meteorologist Tom Kierein

Friends Community School welcomed News4 and WAMU Morning Edition meteorologist Tom Kierein to the school where he taught first and second grade students about the weather. Kierein focused on teaching the students basic concepts – definitions of weather, climate, precipitation, forecasting and wind. He also talked about the tools he uses to do his job and he shared a pop-up book he wrote called “Weather” that was published by the National Geographic Society. The visit was part of a science unit the children are doing on weather. “Having a meteorologist come to Friends provides real-world application for our study of weather,” said Gerry Stewart, science teacher and head of the lower school. “The students had an opportunity to learn about what goes into forecasting the Meteorologist Tom Kierein visited Friends Community School and taught first and second weather firsthand. They also grade students at about the weather. were able to ask questions and lege; Marcus Hodges—Cheyney University; make a personal connection with Tom Kierein.” Wesley Davis—Cheyney University; Dushon This year Friends opened a new science lab Davis—Shaw University; Kenneth McDaniel— for younger students as part of its recent expansion, Shaw University/Lincoln University. Friendship which also included added space for classrooms provides a world-class education that motivates and visual and performing arts. In addition to the students to achieve high academic standards, new lab, the children take advantage of the school’s enjoy learning and develop as well-rounded 17-acre wooded campus adjacent to Greenbelt and self-sufficient citizens who contribute to Park for science lessons as well. their communities. Friends Community School is a Kindergarten Collegiate Academy’s graduation is 95 perthrough 8th grade Quaker school located in Colcent - 37 percentage points higher than D.C.’s lege Park, MD that welcomes students of all betraditional public high schools graduation rate. liefs. It educates about 220 students including a And 100 percent of the graduating class is acgrowing number of children from Capitol Hill, as cepted to college. – Dan Cronin. Friendship well as from other parts of the metropolitan area. Collegiate Academy is located at 4095 Minne-Eric Rosenthal. www.friendscommunityschool.org.

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Jefferson Academy News On Feb 11, Nando’s Peri Peri in Yards Park and Near Southeast Community Partners (NSCP) hosted a fundraiser for Jefferson Academy. This fundraiser, which followed the event for AmidonBowen held on Jan 22 was attended by members of SWNA, Waterfront Gateway, ANC Commissioners from 6D03, 6D04 and 6D06, AmidonBowen/Jefferson PTA and residents. 40 percent of the evening’s proceeds will benefit the school. Principal Natalie Gordon donned a Nando’s apron and “Chicks Rule” uniform shirt, took over the grill and, with Nando’s professionals at her side did a great job. She still intends to keep her day job as Principal although she wore the Nando’s uniform for the rest of the evening. The restaurant was packed with folks eating, drinking and taking out food all for a great cause. The atmosphere was more of an informal happy hour as food and drink kept coming. Jefferson Academy is a rising star boasting academic gains in reading and math on the DC CAS and has a strong sense of P.R.I.D.E: Prepared Respectful, Inspiring, Determined and Engaged and is an important feeder school to Amidon-Bowen and the soon-to-open Van Ness Elementary for SY2015. Near Southeast Community Partners (NSCP) is about creating a vibrant Riverfront Community. Thank you to Nando’s Peri Peri in Yards Park for being a wonderful community “Partner” by making our schools better one bite at a time. Bruce DarConte. Jefferson is located at 801 7th St. SW.; jeffersontrojans.org.

Langley Elementary News Thirty million dollars. That is how much the Washington DC Public school system spends on utility bills for their public schools! Together The District of Columbia Sustainable Energy Utility (DC SEU) and twenty five Washington DC Public schools are getting together to cut that gigantic utility bill down! The contest is called DC Green Schools Challenge and is run by DC SEU. The premise is simple: Schools compete against one another to reduce electricity consumption over a three-week period. If schools can cut their energy

Winners of Tyler’s 1st Annual Spelling Bee: Noah Ramsden, Kaydince Hall, and Chase Jones.

use at least 5 percent against their baseline the school can receiving up to $10K and other prizes! Local school Langley Elementary in NE is more than excited for this challenge! The art club has created posters advertising to other students to “unplug it!” and “Turn it off!” when it comes to turning off unnecessary overheads lights and unused appliances. The student government leaders are also responsible for checking their classroom before going home every afternoon to make sure that all unnecessary electricity usage is turned off. “It is a wonderful opportunity for our students to take leadership in their school environment. It will help students to understand how their everyday actions can save not only money but their planet.” – Amanda Rogers, Visual Arts Teacher and Green Team Leader for Langley Elementary School. More info: www. dcgreenschoolschallenge.com/; School Stats: http://buildingdashboard.net/dc/#/dc/LangleySchool-0

Tyler Elementary School Winter has been an exciting time at Tyler Elementary, with our annual Kiddie Cabaret, a special live performance by Teatro de la Luna, and a successful Festival of Nations event, in which students learned about the language, art, and culture of wide variety of countries from across the globe. Tyler is also gearing up to produce the Alchemy of Great Taste, our annual fundraiser and auction, which will be held on Saturday, March 8th, 7-11pm, at Eastern Market’s North Hall. All are welcome and tickets may be purchased at http://www.tylerelementary.net/greattaste/. Tyler is also beaming with pride about the results of our first annual Spelling Bee, an official Scripps-sponsored competition. A school-wide event, students spent weeks preparing for their moment in the spelling spotlight, with final contenders from each grade level being cheered on by their peers. Special congratulations go to our

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ing on the literacy team was so rewarding. Working closely with Central Office staff to write and revise literacy curriculum not only strengthened my expertise as a teacher, but is helping so many kindergarteners and first graders across the district grow as readers”. Ms. Addison has facilitated training on guided reading best practices for both principals and managers of the Instructional Coaching Program. When she is not teaching, Ms. Addison enjoys taking advantage of DC’s great restaurants, traveling to beaches, and spending time with her 3-year-old daughter. -Angelica Alfonso-Royals. Ludlow Taylor, 659 G St, NE. www.ludlowtaylor.org. LTES Kindergarten teacher Kristen Addison works on reading comprehension with her students”

1st-3rd place winners, Noah Ramsden, Kaydince Hall, and Chase Jones, who will advance to the DC citywide Spelling Bee. Got Tyler Tigers! -Colleen Cancio at ccancio@gmail.com.Tyler Elementary, 1001 G St, SE; TylerElementary.net.

Ludlow-Taylor Elementary News Teacher Highlight: Kristen Addison, Kindergarten Teacher and 2013 TCTL Fellow Kristen Addison, Kindergarten teacher at Ludlow Taylor, was selected to participate in the 2013 Teachers Central to Leadership Fellowship Program (TCTL Fellows). Recognized as a Highly Effective Teacher in 2012 and 2013, an Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) Teacher of the Year nominee in 2013, Ms. Addison has also been credited for her students’ achievement on reading comprehension assessments. Ms. Addison worked within the Office of Teaching and Learning on the literacy team during her time as a TCTL fellow. She wrote reading units aligned to the Common Core, helped revise curriculum for kindergarten and first grade, and provided input for the social studies curriculum and the close reading literacy focus area. “My experience as a TCTL fellow gave me a positive and appreciative outlook about the smart and hard work that is being done at Central Office to move our district to higher levels,” said Addison. “My work in the Office of Teaching and Learn-

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Capitol Hill Cluster School News Peabody Primary Campus On Feb 7 Peabody held an International Day Celebration. In the weeks leading up to the event the international wagon containing activities from around the world and an Olympic torch had been traveling around the school from classroom to classroom. The students participated in a rotation of various international activities with the Peabody Specials teachers. Students: Did a Mexican puppet show with Librarian Ms. Bloom; Made Olympic flags with Art Teacher Ms. Cushman and Ms. Jones; they had a world scavenger hunt with PE Teacher Mr. Gross and played a Japanese plate game with Music Teacher Mr. Hoffman.

Stuart-Hobson Middle School 2014 Winter Athletics Round-Up Congratulations to our basketball teams on their strong season: Lady Panthers 7-3, JV Boys Panthers 1-4, Varsity Boys Panthers 9-1, and to our indoor track team, who closed their season with 12 medals! Stephen H. won the 200 meter dash. Leah S. and Emma M. placed second and third in the city, respectively. Go Panthers!

After-School All-Stars help Provide Packed High School Prep Workshops Stuart-Hobson and their After-School AllStars, combined forces to provide their 8th grade students and their parents information and support as they applied online for out of boundary and “specialized” public high schools in the city, such as School Without Walls SHS, Benjamin Banneker SHS, Duke Ellington School of the Arts, and more. For the first time, DCPS offered a one-stop website (www.MySchoolDC.org) for students and families to explore all high school options—including students’ neighborhood high schools and many participating public charter high schools. Students and parents packed all three January evening sessions which included essay writing help, mock interviews, and online application support. ASAS trustees, program leaders, Stuart-Hobson staff, and other volunteers lead one-on-one and group sessions that received rave reviews. They even had a mock interview room led by Sidwell Friends alumnus and current Assistant Director Upper School of Ad-

Watkins Elementary School Since October, Watkins has been selecting one teacher for the honor of Teacher of the Month. Congratulations to the following Watkins Teachers of the Month: Oct – Sashaum Deprez, Grade 3; Nov – Kristina Kellogg, Grade 4; Dec – Tori Pergerson, Music Teacher; Jan – Katherine Moxley, Grade 5. Congratulations to our wonderful teachers.

Girls Varsity Basketball Team: First Row Left to Right: Reginald Newby (Head Coach), LaMarria P., Mia Y., Kayla L., Amanda E., Melady B., Vinice E., Lege’cee M., Leonard Booker (Assistant Coach). Second Row Left to Right: Nakailah E. (Manager), Shanya W., Princess C., Nneamaka I., Destiny N., Dejae B., Anijah C., Ifeany I.; Not Pictured: Gabrielle L.

also included a talent showcase featuring students and faculty, a special performance by the Upper School’s a cappella group, the Abbeatz, and a tug-of-war competition among the school’s Forms. More information about the schools upcoming events can be found at: www.saintanselms.org.

School-Within School News St. Anselm’s Acappella Group

missions and Financial Aid, Alexander Levey, who gave great advice to students for their high school interviews. “Don’t ‘push play.’ Don’t just run through a list of accomplishments,” he advised. According to Levey, showing who you are and how you’ll contribute to the overall school community are important share authentically. Thanks to Levey, the Stuart-Hobson staff and the dozens of After-School All-Stars volunteers, the 8th graders will be ready to do just that this spring!

St. Anselm’s News Exploring New Worlds at Renaissance Day St. Anselm’s Abbey School was buzzing on Jan 31 as students and faculty gathered for Renaissance Day 2014. On this special day, the school forgoes regular classes in favor of workshops and seminars led by members of the school community in which they share their hobbies, passions and expertise. For the first time this year, students had the opportunity to lead sessions in addition to those put on by teachers and staff. They developed peer-led classes that included: What Is Soul?; The Basics of Filmmaking; Papermaking; Workshop; Photography 101; Web Comic Development and Storytelling; Studio Recording; Morse Code; and The Way We Act! Teachers and staff led sessions on topics ranging from the linguistic (Beginning Welsh; Latin Trivia) to the cultural (African Dance Crazes; Irish Storytelling) to the scientific (Robotic Art; Understanding Engines). The day

The SWS Auction: Save the Date: May 3 School-Within-School invites you to join them for their 17th Annual Jazz Gala & Auction: a fun evening of live jazz, open bar and heavy hors d’oeuvres. Year after year, the success of the parent-run Jazz Gala and Auction is vital to the school’s success. This event is for everyone;even if you do not have a child at the school still consider supporting this amazing cause.. Every dollar raised from this event goes back directly to SWS. Reaching their goal depends on the generosity of SWS friends, families, businesses, and community members. Auction proceeds and charitable giving have supplemented school technology, teacher development, the cost for teaching assistants, the music, dance and art programs, as well as classroom supplies. The auction will be held May 3 at 6 p.m. at the National Press Club Building. For more information, visit auctionSWS@ gmail.com.

100 Days of School Students celebrated their 100th day of school, a milestone for each class and a great excuse to explore the number 100! Students in some classes brought in 100 items. There were beads and beans artfully glued on poster board. In one kindergarten class, a student gathered 100 signatures on a scroll, another wrote 100 words she could spell on a poster, and yet another brought in 100 “smiling selfies” -- pictures people snapped of themselves. It was a happy 100 days. -Allison Klein. 920 F St NE; schoolwithinschool.org. ◆

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March 2014 ★ 163

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164 ★ Hillrag.com

WELDING

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OTHER SERVICES ACCOUNTANTS the

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Would your INDOOR cat or kitten like to be pampered, cared for and played with while you’re away or at work? Then you should give me a call as I would love to pet-sit your cat or kitten. Joyce at 202-547-0556

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zoolatry

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for 7 days of unlimited yoga! ALL LEVELS WELCOME! No reservations required! • Reduce stress • Increase Strength + Flexibility

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Big dogs, puppies, hard to handle and older dogs. I love them all ….and I also love kitties.

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202.889.0996 March 2014 ★ 165

DOG TRAINING

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PET ADOPTION

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Sundays Noon to 3 PM 733 8th Street, S.E.

a five-minute walk from Eastern Market Metro.

Visit our Web site to view pictures and their engaging personalities at www.capitalcats.petfinder.com or www.homealone.petfinder.com Capital Cats is a non-profit cat rescue organization on the Hill that has many wonderful, personable cats and kittens available for adoption to good homes.

SUPPORT YOUR NEIGHBORS AND LOCAL BUSINESSES!

firewdfac@yahoo.com 4521 Kenilworth Avenue, Bladensburg, MD - Rear Lot

FOR RENT 1BR WATERFRONT

Sunny SW Waterfront 1Br Apt with Parking $1800. Bright corner apartment now available in low-rise condo building featuring huge windows, spacious rooms, beautiful hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, ample closet space, and large balcony. Rent includes all utilities, dedicated garage space, and storage unit. Pets welcome. Just 2 blocks to Waterfront Metro, Safeway, CVS, Starbucks, and restaurants. Contact Brenda: 202-669-4999, bren@brendalizzio.com. http://410ostreetsw310.agentmarketing.com.

NONPROFIT OFFICE SPACE

Hill Center is offering nonprofit organizations the opportunity to locate administrative offices in the beautifully renovated Civil-War era Old Naval Hospital at 921 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE. One light-filled corner office with beautiful views of Capitol Hill is available on the third floor of the ADA accessible building. Office space comes with reception services at the front entrance of the building; shared access to a staff kitchenette; a shared Conference Room; and a “huddle” space. Every office is equipped with Ethernet jacks. Basic internet connectivity and utilities are included in the monthly use fee of $850 per month. For more information, e-mail diana@HillCenterDC.org or call 202-549-4172.

RENOVATIONS

MISC.

RENOVATIONS

Roofing New and Repairs, Gutters Clean and Install, Downspouts, Concrete, Painting, Drywall, Carpentry, Electrical and Plumbing, Bathtubs Reglazing. Call 301-237-8932.

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March 2014 ★ 167

{the last word}

15 Years of ‘Thank You’s’ Churches Honor Neighborhood Police for the 15th Year by Carol Anderson

ike many traditions, this one had an uncertain start. The first event had just a few church folks walking trays of Valentine’s treats down 5th Street, SE to the First District Police Sub-station (1D1). Inside, wary officers eyed the equally nervous visitors who just showed up out of a cold, gloomy night to say “thanks” to the neighborhood cops and “Here’s some goodies.” As the group was led into the break room, the lieutenant on duty hissed into the ears of two scared-looking rookies, “Get in there and talk to them!” That was fifteen years ago. This year’s 15th Annual Police Valentine Tribute was markedly different. Officers at 1D1 eagerly awaited the 7 p.m. start time. Every surface in the break room was bedecked with heart-themed tablecloths and Valentine decorations. A squad car was sent by Lt. Diane Durbin to help ferry church people and their goodies. At the first sight of the church group, 1D1 doors were flung open wide to greet them. Everyone knows the drill now. They know folks from Capitol Hill United Methodist Church (5th & Seward Sq.) and Ebenezer United Methodist Church (4th & D) will warm a cold February night with food, kids bearing valentines, and song. Each year the churchgoers sing a familiar rock song with the lyrics rewritten to be a paean to the officers, citing many by name. “I’ve saved all the songs,” said Sergeant Darren Jones, “even the ones that don’t mention my name.”

FROM TOP TO BOTTOM; LEFT TO RIGHT: 1. Sgt. Darren Jones with this yearís song for the officers. 2. First District Commander Jeff Brown with 1D1 fan, Quinn Stroud. 3. Deacon Troy Sims (behind pink square) presents valentines from the kids. 4. Ofc. Saunders and 1D Cmdr. Jeff Brown show off some valentines. 5. Officers check out song lyrics for their names. 6. “I see your name but not mine.”

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Questions about Distribution? Email distribution@hillrag.com or call 202-400-3512 March 2014 H 169

FROM TOP TO BOTTOM; LEFT TO RIGHT: 7. CHUMC singers waiting to perform. 8. Ebenezer’s Mildred Colbert and Lorna Morgan hear from Micah Sims, who kept shouting “Hooray, 1D1!” 9. Ashley Harris, now 12, has attended every Police Valentine Tribute since she was a toddler. 10. Brandon Marshall and Quinn Stroud present TGIF’s artwork to the officers. 11. GIFís Joanne Buford and Assistant Chief of Police Diane Groomes. 12. Cmdr. Jeff Brown (l), Mark Bowen from CHUMC, and Lt. Diane Durbin. 13. Cedric Lyles singing “The Rose”

170 H Hillrag.com

This year’s song parody – “They Work Hard for the City” – was sung to the tune of Donna Summer’s “She Works Hard for the Money.” Soloist Kelli Blackwell was a true pop diva as she wailed out her solo stanzas. Also doing a star turn was Cedric Lyles, who performed a moving rendition of “The Rose.” “The Valentine Tribute is truly an amazing display of not only appreciation, but talent as well,” said Jeff Brown, the newly named First District Commander. “I have always been impressed by the support Capitol Hill citizens show MPD,” he added. Though new to his post, Commander Brown has served Capitol Hill extensively in his career and has much experience with its various community groups. On behalf of the Sunday School kids of Capitol Hill United Methodist Church, Deacon Troy Sims presented mega-valentines to the officers, saying we’re all called to be light in a sometimes dark world. Joanne Buford, executive director of TGIF, an after-school tutoring program, had TGIF kids Brandon Marshall and Quinn Stroud present their artwork to the officers. “We have long enjoyed our partnership with the dedicated men and women of 1D1,” said Rev. Alisa Wailoo, pastor of Capitol Hill United Methodist Church. “During the past year, we have been particularly helped by folks I especially want to lift up by name: Officers Trupp and Hardy, Lt. Fowler, and Detective Parrish. But tonight we’re here to say ‘thank you’ to all the 1D1 officers who serve and protect this community. We are truly grateful for their selflessness.” Assistant Chief of Police Diane Groomes makes it a point never to miss the event. “It was another wonderful evening of fellowship – and being spoiled. The musical honors warmed the troops’ heart and the tasty soup warmed body and soul. Such ‘heartfelt’ community support cannot be overstated,” said Chief Groomes. Echoing Groomes, Cmdr. Brown said, “It was an honor to participate in this event, and I am already looking forward to next year.” “Do they really do this every year?,” asked an officer new to the event, who quickly dodged a stuffed toy being tossed his way. Paper fans, toys and keychains were given as keepsakes. Meanwhile, the kids attached googly-eyed heart stickers to police badges, name plates and anywhere else they could reach. After songs were sung, toys were tossed, and every heart sticker had found its mark, the church folks retreated into the night, leaving the officers to savor the food gifts. Back in the breakroom one could hear voices singing “They work hard for the city… .” u