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WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON
20th Annual Fuego Flamenco Festival at GALA
This year, GALA Theatre, 3333 14th St. NW, celebrates Flamenco in an expanded three-week Flamenco Festival – Nov. 7 to 23. Ser.Rana, Nov. 7 to 10, is a foreteller, an experience that transforms the art of movement and sets dance free. The original music of the show and the minimalist esthetic of dance create a close connection between artist and audience, uncovering deep emotions. Lo Mejor de Edwin, Nov. 15 to 17, is a retrospective of powerful works choreographed by visionary Salvadoran artist Edwin Aparicio in honor of the 20-year celebration of the festival he co-founded. In Intimate Friends of Flamenco, Nov. 22 and 23, Marc and Ana, friends since their years as teens and university classmates, reminisce and enjoy the music that has been a part of their lives since childhood and continues to resonate with them today. Each show’s tickets are $50; $35 for seniors and military. The festival pass is $115. galatheatre.org.
Basquiat × Banksy at the Hirshhorn
Basquiat × Banksy is an exhibition at the Hirshhorn, Independence Avenue and Seventh Street SW, through Oct. 26, 2025, of two major paintings, one by Jean-Michel Basquiat (b. Brooklyn, New York, 1960–1988) and the other by Banksy (anonymous; b. near Bristol, England). Placed in dialogue, Basquiat’s Boy and Dog in a Johnnypump (1982) and Banksy’s response, Banksquiat. Boy and Dog in Stop and Search (2018) reveal throughlines among street art, contemporary art, and the popular imagination. The exhibition also includes 20 small works on paper and wood that were made by Basquiat between 1979 and 1985 and demonstrate the artist’s deep familiarity with art history, his use of language, and his signature motifs, such as skulls and crowns. The film Downtown 81 (shot in 1980–1981 and released in 2000), a send-up of the denizens of Manhattan’s ’80s avant-garde that stars Basquiat as a struggling artist named “Jean,” is also on view. hirshhorn.si.edu.
Meet George F. Babbitt: real estate broker, father of two, a fine, upstanding, middle-class American everyman. Seeking meaning to his humdrum existence, Babbitt Played by Matthew Boderick) plunges headlong into the most spectacular rebellion of his life (using the guest towel) and unwittingly turns the world around him upside down. Prepare to be amazed by this exhilarating adaptation of Sinclair Lewis’s satirical masterpiece. At Shakespeare Theater Company’s Harmon Hall,610 F St. NW, through Nov. 3. Tickets start at $35. shakespearetheatre.org.
Mosaic’s The Art of Care at the Atlas
Sting 3.0 at MGM National Harbor
As a solo musician and a member of the Police, Sting has received 17 Grammy Awards: he won Song of the Year for “Every Breath You Take”, three Brit Awards, including Best British Male Artist in 1994 and Outstanding Contribution in 2002, a Golden Globe, an Emmy, and four nominations for the Academy Award for Best Original Song. In 2019, he received a BMI Award for “Every Breath You Take” becoming the most-played song in radio history. Sting 3.0 is at MGM National Harbor on Tuesday, Oct. 15 and Wednesday, Oct. 16, 8 p.m. Tickets are $157 to $612 (with dynamic pricing). mgmnationalharbor.mgmresorts.com.
Pictures of Belonging: Miki Hayakawa, Hisako Hibi, and Miné
Okubo at SAAM
Pictures of Belonging at the American Art Museum, Eighth and G streets, NW, from Nov. 15 to Aug. 17, 2025, is an unprecedented examination of three trailblazing figures. By tracing their artistic development before, during, and after the mass incarceration and displacement of Japanese Americans during World War II, the exhibition offers a nuanced view of how these women continued to explore and experiment with new artistic expression throughout their lives. Created during tumultuous decades in modern US history, their paintings, along with their stories of resilience, remind us of art’s power in the face of adversity and challenge. americanart.si.edu.
LEFT: Miki Hayakawa, One Afternoon, ca. 1935, oil on canvas, 40 x 40 in., New Mexico Museum of Art, Santa Fe, Gift of Preston McCrossen in memory of his wife, the artist, 1954, 520.23P
One of the most profound experiences we all share is how we care for, and are cared for by, others. The Art of Care is an innovative world premiere theatrical event exploring this common thread of our humanity at a time in our world when care often feels in short supply. Featuring an ensemble of all-star DC performers sharing from their own deeply personal experiences, this uplifting and interactive genre-breaking devised play combines movement, music, and multimedia with the insights of caregivers, medical professionals, policymakers, and everyday citizens, and courageously invites us all into the performers’ own vulnerable personal worlds while deepening our understanding of our own. Tickets are $42 to $70. Mosaic’s The Art of Care is at the Atlas, 1333 H St. NE, from Oct. 31 to Nov. 24. mosaictheater.org.
Romeo and Juliet at the Folger
Folger Theatre opens its 2024-25 season with William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, directed by award-winning director and producer Raymond O. Caldwell, on stage at the Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 East Capitol St. SE, through Nov. 10. Framed within the Folger Shakespeare Library’s timely seasonal theme of Whose Democracy?, an exploration of political power and civic participation, this staging situates the world’s most famous romantic tragedy in a politically fraught, slightly fictionalized version of Washington DC. In a nod to our current election cycle, Caldwell’s fresh interpretation of star-crossed lovers marries the “uncivil strife” of Shakespeare’s Verona and the polarized political landscape of our nation’s capital. Tickets are $20 to $84 with discounts for patrons under 35, students, seniors, members and family of the military, educators, and groups. folger.edu/whats-on/ romeo-and-juliet/.
Pottery on the Hill
Pottery on the Hill is on the weekend of Nov. 17 to 19, at Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. It celebrates functional pottery that which can be regularly used, such as dinnerware, drinkware, vases, platters, and more by top ceramic artists from across the country. Avid ceramics fans will love the chance to talk with the potters in a casual, fun environment and continue to grow their collections. This is also a great opportunity to get a jump start on shopping for the holidays, giving the special people in your life a one-of-a-kind gift. This year, they welcome ten new potters: Christina Bendo, Danielle Carelock, Guillermo Cuéllar, Andrea Denniston, Seth Gutovsky, Matt Kelleher, Shoko Teruyama, Doug Peltzman, David Young, and Junko Young. Free admission. Friday preview, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., $40; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. free, and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., free. hillcenterdc.org/partner/pottery-on-the-hill.
The Magnetic Fields (69 Love Songs) at the Lincoln
Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile at Arena
In Ken Ludwig’s thrilling adaptation of Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile, Hercule Poirot becomes entangled in a web of deceit and desire aboard a cruise ship on the Nile River. When a murder occurs among the passengers, Poirot springs into action to unmask a killer who could strike again at any moment. Death on the Nile is at Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SW, from Nov. 22 to Dec. 29. Tickets are $59 to $99. arenastage.org.
The Magnetic Fields are an American band founded and led by Stephin Merritt, the group’s primary songwriter, producer, and vocalist, as well as frequent multi-instrumentalist. The band released their debut single 100,000 Fireflies in 1991. The single was typical of the band’s earlier career, characterized by synthesized instrumentation by Merritt. The band’s best-known work is the 1999 three-volume concept album 69 Love Songs. The Magnetic Fields will reprise 69 Love Songs on Oct. 17 to 20 at the Lincoln Theater, 1215 U St. NW. Tickets are $49.50 to $79.50. thelincolndc.com.
Vase Grouping by Julie Wiggins
The Washington Ballet’s when WE take flight
when WE take flight, from Oct. 24 to 27, at the Warner Theatre, 513 13th St. NW, features three varied works that highlight the dynamic range of The Washington Ballet company dancers. Stravinsky Violin Concerto is a work that is faithful to Balanchine’s immortal neo-classical style. It is a masterpiece of symmetry that encompasses two of Balanchine’s most ingenious and unique pas de deux. 18 + 1 is a celebration of dance. In a display of humor and electric choreography, the movement merges with the playful rhythms found in Pérez Prado’s mambo music. The program concludes with Murmuration--a deeply spiritual and kinetically thrilling work that is inspired by the beautiful flight patterns of starling birds. Tickets are $25 to $100. warnertheatredc.com.
All the Devils Are Here:
How Shakespeare Invented the Villain
at STC
Dubbed “The villain of Broadway” Tony Award-nominee and Grammy Award-winner Patrick Page has never shied away from exploring his dark side. He now turns to the twisted motivations and hidden humanity at the heart of Shakespeare’s greatest villains. Moving swiftly through the canon, Page illuminates Shakespeare’s evolving conception of evil by delving into more than a dozen of his most wicked creations, offering a thrilling masterclass on the most terrifying subject of them all: human nature. Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Klein Theater from Dec. 6 to 29. Tickets are $35 to $119. shakespearetheatre.org.
Woman in Black at Keegan
A lawyer obsessed with a curse that he believes has been cast over him and his family by the specter of a Woman in Black engages a skeptical young actor to help him tell his terrifying story and exorcise the fear that grips his soul. It all begins innocently enough, but then, as they reach further into his darkest memories, they find themselves caught up in a world of eerie marshes and moaning winds… Woman in Black (back by popular demand) is at the Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church St. NW, from Oct. 12 to Nov. 17. Tickets are $44 to $54. keegantheatre.com.
The ’70 Lens: Reimagining Documentary Photography at the NGA
The 1970s was a decade of uncertainty in the United States. Americans witnessed soaring inflation, energy crises, and the Watergate scandal, as well as protests about pressing issues such as the Vietnam War, women’s rights, gay liberation, and the environment. The country’s profound upheaval formed the backdrop for a revolution in documentary photography. Activism and a growing awareness and acceptance of diversity opened the field to underrepresented voices. Featuring some 100 works by more than 80 artists, from Oct. 6 to April 6, 2025, The ʼ70s Lens examines how photographers reinvented documentary practice during this radical shift in American life. nga.gov.
Helen Levitt. New York, 1972, dye imbibition print. im-
Turkish Festival 2024 (Turkiye Calling)
Over the years the Turkish Festival has become the premier event for the Turkish American Recreational and Cultural Organization (TURCO) and a much-anticipated tradition for Washingtonians. Since 2008, the festival has hosted more than 20,000 visitors every year. It is seen by many as one of the best cultural events in the city and it is noted for its culinary delights, and a variety of live Turkish music and folk dance performances. Sunday, Oct. 20, 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., in front of the US Capitol Building on Pennsylvania Avenue between Third and Sixth streets, NW. Free admission. turkishfestival.org.
US National Oyster Festival
The US National Oyster Festival in Leonardtown, MD, is on Saturday, Oct. 19, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 20, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (rain or shine). Enjoy live entertainment, cook-offs, shucking contests, tastings and vendors. Single day tickets are $15; weekend passes are $25; kids 12 and under are free. Leonardtown is about 55 miles from DC. usoysterfest.com.
Chiarina’s Celebrated Piano Trios (Dvořák & Farrenc)
On Sunday, Nov. 10, 2 p.m., at St. Mark’s, 301 A St. SE, the virtuosity and charm of 19th-century composer Louise Farrenc--a figure whose music has risen from obscurity into the limelight in recent years--shine in the opening half of this program.
Dvořák’s F-minor trio encapsulates the lyricism, vigor, and drama that make the Czech Romantic giant so revered. Superb chamber musicians Catherine Cho (violin) and Marcy Rosen (cello) join Chiarina artistic director Efi Hackmey in this afternoon performance. Tickets are $30, plus fee; $35 at door; and free for ages 18 and under. chiarina.org.
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse Live in Concert
In Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse Live in Concert audiences will see the film presented on a huge HD screen, accompanied by a range of musicians and instrumentalists performing music from the film’s score and soundtrack live to picture. This will include an orchestra, a scratch DJ on turntables, percussion and electronic instruments. The score for the film was created by Emmy-winning and Academy Award and Golden Globe-nominated composer, Daniel Pemberton, known for his work on movies such as Ferrari, The Man From U.N.C.L.E. and Oceans 8. National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, on Nov. 8 and 9. Tickets start at $25. BroadwayAtTheNational.com.
ATRS
WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON
Washington National Opera’s Macbeth
Massive ensembles. White hot arias. The dark recesses of the mind. Verdi’s adaptation of Shakespeare’s smoldering tragedy is a riveting exploration of power, corruption, and freedom. From Nov. 13 to 23, Washington National Opera brings the Bard’s historical epic back for the first time in 17 years. Meet opera’s most power-hungry couple: Macbeth and his Lady. When they’re caught in a murderous plot to claim the Scottish throne, their manic greed for control has no end. Verdi wrote this powerhouse during Italy’s independence movement, and it soars with themes of political corruption, tyrannical rule, and liberation of the people. Tickets are $45 to $269. kennedy-center.gov.
Dance Like There’s Black People Watching at Woolly
The Big Sing at the National Cathedral
On Wednesday, Oct. 23 at 7 p.m., lend your voice and feel the reverberating acoustics of the world’s sixth-largest Cathedral with this free event. The Kennedy Center, Washington National Cathedral and the Levine Music team up to present this community sing for everyone. No singing experience is required—just BYOV (bring your own voice). Experience the social and psychological benefits of singing together in one of the most beautiful spaces in DC. This is first-come, first-served event. tickets are not required. cathedral.org/ calendar/the-big-sing.
From the creators of Black Side of the Moon and She the People, The Second City returns to Woolly Mammoth, now delivering a dose of brilliant Black Joy. The hilarious brand-new show, created exclusively for Woolly Mammoth, features the troupe’s worldrenowned improv, an ensemble of rising comedy stars, songs, and sketches. The Black Excellence Revue is here to help you blow off steam at the end of this year with razorsharp wit, a fresh look at the ridiculous things in life, and non-stop laughs. Dance Like There’s Black People Watching is at Woolly Mammoth from Nov. 6 to Dec. 22. Ticket price range is $47 to $83. Woolly Mammoth is at 641 D ST. NW. woollymammoth.net.
Massive Attack at the Anthem
Massive Attack are an English trip hop collective formed in 1988 in Bristol by Robert “3D” Del Naja, Adrian “Tricky” Thaws, Andrew “Mushroom” Vowles and Grant “Daddy G” Marshall. The group currently consists of Del Naja, Thaws, and Marshall. The debut Massive Attack album, Blue Lines, was released in 1991. The single “Unfinished Sympathy” was a chart hit in Europe, including number one on the Dutch Top 40, and was later voted the 63rd-greatest song of all time in a poll by NME. Massive Attack’s awards include a Brit Award for Best British Dance Act, two MTV Europe Music Awards, and two Q Awards. Their five studio albums have sold over 13 million copies worldwide. At The Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW, on Tuesday. Oct. 22, 8 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.). Tickets are $75 to $125. theanthemdc.com.
Étienne Dupuis is Macbeth. Photo: Dario Acosta
Photo: Teresa Castracane
20 TH ANNUAL FODfest
(Friends of Danny Pearl)
THUR OCT. 10TH
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM @ THE HILL CENTER Community Concert Presented in Partnership with Music in Common
Hip Hop, Vinyl, and Vintage Delights at Anacostia Arts Center
On Sunday, Oct. 27, noon to 5 p.m., join DJ RBI for an afternoon of live performances, exciting finds from local small businesses, and cultural exploration at the Anacostia Arts Center, 1231 Marion Barry Ave. SE. Orange Crate Convention is the perfect post church/brunch/whatever you did Saturday night stop. Come and buy vinyl, art, and mixtapes from DC’s thriving hip hop and rap community. anacostiaartscenter.com.
Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC: Postcards
On Saturday, Oct. 19, at 2 (ASL), 5 and 8 p.m., at the Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church St. NW, soloists from the Gay Men’s Chorus will share hilarious and heart-warming stories and songs about the travel adventures they’ve had and hope to have! Songs include “Leaving on a Jet Plane,” “London Calling,” and “I’ll Be Seeing You.” Tickets are $43.50 for seniors or $48. gmcw.org/postcards.
IN Series’ Rigoletto (Opera that speaks. Theater that sings.)
Voted as audience choice for IN Series’ 2019-20 season, this circus version of Rigoletto, complete with a circus band and bawdy new text by Bari Biern, became a victim of COVID-19, but before that, victim to 19th-century censors that found its exploration of the misdeeds of the powerful too dangerous for the public eye. The production will finally roar to life on the stage, from Dec. 7 to 15, at the Goldman Theater DCJCC and the Baltimore Theatre Project. At once darkly devilish, toe-tappingly infectious, and horrifically funny, Verdi’s masterpiece is made intimate, in-your-face, and inescapably enjoyable under the big top. Tickets are $35 to $72. Dates at the Goldman Theater, 1529 16th St. NW, are Dec. 7 and 14, at 7:30 p.m.; and Dec. 8 and 15 at 2:30 p.m. inseries.org.
Shaw’s Shorts at Washington Stage Guild
From Nov. 21 to Dec. 15, get a fresh look at three of GB Shaw’s most delicious one-act plays, first produced by Stage Guild in 2007. In O’Flaherty VC, the winner of the Victoria Cross for outstanding bravery is confronted by his Irish-to-the-core Catholic mother, incensed to discover he’s been fighting for the British. In the imaginative The Dark Lady of the Sonnets, Will Shakespeare goes to the palace to meet his Dark Lady to whom he addressed sonnets of love, only to find Her Majesty the Queen instead—followed by the Dark Lady herself who lambasts them both. Plus, The Interlude at the Playhouse, a comic curtain-raiser in which a nervous theater owner must give a big speech at a gala opening, but his wife may have to save the day. Tickets are $50 and 60. All performances are at The Undercroft Theatre, in the ground level of the Mount Vernon Place United Methodist Church, 900 Massachusetts Ave. NW. stageguild.org.
Courtesy of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC.
LEFT: George Bernard Shaw taking a sun bath cure at Madeira.
Haley Heynderickx at 9:30 Club
Indie folk singer/songwriter Haley Heynderickx draws from a wide array of influences, citing her religious Filipino-American upbringing, the folk music of the 1960s and ’70s, jazz radio, and the idiosyncratic acoustic guitar styles of Leo Kottke and John Fahey. All of those ingredients find their way into her music, which pairs deft fingerpicking with lyrics that flirt with levity but hew toward introspection. Her first album I Need to Start a Garden saw release in 2018. Following years of heavy touring, Heynderickx has new music coming this year. She is at the 9:30 Club, 815 V St. NW, on Saturday, Nov. 16, 6 p.m. $25 general admission. 930.com.
HOT TUNA Acoustic at the Birchmere
For over 50 years Hot Tuna, Jorma Kaukonen and Jack Casady, have brought a wealth of emotions to their music through deep perceptions and tremendous talent. As members of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Grammy recipients, they are always injecting fresh energy into their sound with constant improvisation, taking their musical horizons further. Hot Tuna remains one of the most innovative Rock and Roll bands in American music. They’re at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria VA, on Thursday, Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $69.50. birchmere.com.
Photo: Erik Kabik Photography/MediaPunch
Summer, 1976 at Studio
It’s midsummer in the mid-seventies—the second wave of feminism is cresting somewhere while two very different women are thrown into one another’s orbit in college-town Ohio. Iconoclast artist Diana looks down on faculty wife Alice, but their young daughters’ friendship forces them together. Featuring two tour-de-force performances by DC favorites Holly Twyford and Kate Eastwood Norris, David Auburn’s recent Broadway hit traces each woman’s growing disquiet with the compromises they’ve made, and the transformative power of a friendship at the right time. Studio Theatre, 1501 14th St. NW., from Nov. 13 to Dec. 22. studiotheatre.org.
Prayer for the French Republic at Theater J
The Benhamou family has lived in Paris for five generations. A visit from their American cousin, Molly, is quickly overshadowed by an antisemitic attack on the family’s son, Daniel. The turmoil of the event awakens even the most dormant fears as each family member advocates for ways to move forward—or away. Just outside their window, the mounting pressure of Marine Le Pen’s extreme views winning over the populace shows no signs of waning. As the family references the choices of generations before, time bends to bring the characters forward, echoing the same questions. Theater J, 1529 16th St. NW, from Oct. 30 to Nov. 24. Tickets are $49.99 to $79.99. edcjcc.org/theater-j
LOCAL CALENDAR
Capital City Symphony: Renew. Oct. 6, 5 p.m. “Stay put for a spell” in a musical evening of rest, resilience, and rebirth. Carlos Simon’s “Breathe” sets the scene, inviting a moment of introspective calm. $35. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. artlasarts.org.
Live at the Library. On all Thursdays, 5 to 8 p.m., the Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building, 10 First St. SE, and all exhibitions are open. Visitors are invited to enjoy happy hour drinks and food available for purchase in the Great Hall and the Jefferson Building’s beautiful architecture while immersing themselves in the Library’s exhibits, collections and programs. Free tickets are required at loc.gov/live.
ExPats Theatre: Marlene. Through Oct. 19. “Marlene” is set in the dressing room of a Paris theatre where an aging Marlene Dietrich is getting ready for a singing performance. $20 to $47.50. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. artlasarts.org.
St. Mark’s Players’ The Birthday Party Through Oct. 19. In the setting of a rundown seaside boarding house, a little birthday party is turned into a nightmare when two sinister strangers arrive unexpectedly. This dark “comedy of menace” sings a fascinating off-beat tune: iconic playwright Harold Pinter chooses his words like a jazz musician chooses their notes in one of his
Brought to You by Schneider's of Capitol Hill
most frequently produced plays. St. Mark’s, 301 A St. SE. stmarksplayers.org.
Unity Flow: Free Rooftop Community Yoga. Fridays, 7:30 to 9 p.m., through Nov. 15. FlowWell Yoga offers inclusive and accessible yoga practices tailored to the diverse needs of our community at Union Market. Register at unionmarketdc.com/events.
Carpe Librum Used Book (outdoor) Popups. Oct. 13; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Eastern Market Metro Park, 701 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. Nov. 2 and Dec. 7, 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Canal Park, 200 M St. SE. Browse through thousands of books under $6. The sale is weather dependent. turningthepage.org.
CiNoMatic Outdoor Movies Return. Wednesdays through Oct. 16. NoMa BID’s outdoor movie series on the lawn of Alethia Tanner Park, 227 Harry Thomas Way NE, returns on Wednesdays at sunset. The theme of this fall’s CiNoMatic season is Fall In Love. nomabid.org.
NE Library Book Sale. Oct. 12, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. NE Library is at 330 Seventh St. NE (corner of Seventh Street and Maryland Avenue NE). dclibrary.org.
DC Wine Fest: Fall Edition. Oct. 19, noon to 10 p.m. Specially curated wineries serve tastings over a multi-session, all-day, all-night vino experience. $35 to $55. Union Market, Dock5, 1309 Fifth St. NE. dcwinefest.com.
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American Roots Concerts at Hill Center. Oct. 6, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., Leon Timbo; Oct. 20, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., Kyshona. Free. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. hillcenterdc.org.
DC United at Audi Field. Oct. 12, 6 p.m., DC United vs. Asanta Kotoko, 2024 Africa Cup; Oct. 19, 7:30 p.m. vs. Charlotte FC. dcunited.com.
Washington Spirit Women’s Soccer at Audi Field. Oct. 13, 5 p.m., vs. Racing Louisville FC; Oct. 20, 5 p.m. vs. Chicago Rad Stars. washingtonspirit.com.
Sing Out Piano Bar and Open Mic with Gay Man’s Chorus. Oct. 16 and Nov. 20 and Dec. 11; 7:30 to 11 p.m. Come out to sing with live piano accompaniment or just enjoy the music. Free admission. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. atlasarts.org.
The Life of a Poet Featuring Celebrated Poet and Essayist Camonghne Felix in Conver-
sation with Kyle Dargan. Oct. 17, 7 to 9 p.m. Camonghne Felix, poet and essayist, is the author of Dyscalculia: A Love Story of Epic Miscalculation which was hailed by TIME Magazine and Vogue as one of the most anticipated books of 2023 and top memoirs of 2023. $10. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. hillcenterdc.org.
Pride LGBTQ+ Tour of Congressional Cemetery. Oct. 19, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Find out who is buried here, including many of the founders of the modern Gay rights movement, and learn about DC’s role in the history of the LGBTQ rights movement. $5. 1801 E St. SE. congressionalcemetery.org.
Dissonance Dance Theatre: Fall Forward. Oct. 19, 8 p.m. Fall back
DC Soulful Vegan Fest. Oct. 13, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Join Friends of the National Arboretum for a day filled with delicious plant-based food, live music and inspiring speakers. Taste amazing vegan dishes, shop from local vendors and learn more about a plant-based lifestyle. Free admission. usna.usda.gov.
Kyshona, an artist, songwriter, activist, music therapist and community connector, is at Hill Center on Sunday, Oct. 20. Photo: Anna Haas
in love with dance that excites the eyes and touches the heart with DDT’s annual Fall Forward. Tickets start at $29.25. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. atlasarts.org.
Talk of the Hill with Bill Press Featuring Celebrated Spy Novelist Daniel Silva. Oct. 23, 7 to 8 p.m. $10. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. hillcenterdc.org.
Global Sounds on the Hill. Oct. 25, 7 to 9 p.m., Congolese Dance Band Loboko. Loboko is a new guitar-driven dance Congolese band created in New York City. The band features the young Congolese vocalist and guitar virtuoso Yohni Djungu Sungu. $20. Nov. 1, 7 to 9 p.m., Spyros Koliavasilis: The Rebetiko Project. Rebetiko is more than a musical form. It’s a sonic passport and a timbral time machine — a unique lyrical synthesis of Greek urban and island melodies and modal traditions from around the Mediterranean. $20. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. hillcenterdc.org.
Mosaic’s The Art of Care. Oct. 31 to Nov. 24. The Art of Care is an innovative world premiere theatrical event exploring this common thread of our humanity at a time in our world when care often feels in short supply. $42 to $70. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. artlasarts.org.
Chiarina Chamber Players: Celebrated Piano Trios. Nov. 10, 2 p.m. The virtuosity and charm of 19th-century composer Louise Farrenc shine in the opening half of this program. Dvořák’s F-minor trio encapsulates the lyricism, vigor, and drama that make the Czech Romantic giant so revered. Superb chamber musicians Catherine Cho (violin) and Marcy Rosen (cello) join Chiarina artistic director Efi Hackmey in this afternoon performance. $30 ($35 at door); ages 18 and under, free. St. Mark’s, 301 A St. SE. chiarina.org. ◆
Sheila Samaddar, DDS, FACD, FPFA
President, District of Columbia Academy of General Dentistry National Spokesperson, Academy of General Dentistry
Dead Man’s Run 5k at Congressional Cemetery. Oct. 12, 5:30 p.m. The race starts with a toll of the funeral bell and continues throughout the Cemetery and onto the Anacostia Trail for a ghostly evening run full of spooky music and other fun. $35. congressionalcemetery.org.
Boo at the Zoo. Oct. 18, 19 and 20, 6 to 8:30 p.m. Grab your best costume and enjoy the season’s festivities while stopping at 30 trickor-treat stations. Admission is $35; and $30 for parking. nationalzoo.si.edu.
The Day of the Dead (1859). Oil on canvas, 147 x 120 cm (57.8 x 47.2 in). Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux
Soul Strolls 2024: Scandal & Slander. Oct. 18 and 25, 6 to 9:30 p.m.; Oct. 19 and 26, 5 to 9:30 p.m. This fall, Congressional Cemetery invites you to uncover tales of scandal from the residents of Congressional Cemetery—a macabre glimpse into DC’s notorious past. $41.80 for adults; $16.30 for kids. congressionalcemetery.org.
Howl-O-Ween. Pet Costume Contest at Lincoln Park. Oct. 26, noon to 4 p.m. Prizes; swag bags for first 100 entries. All dogs must be leashed. For details and to register, visit howltothechief.com.
Trick or Treat! On Oct. 19 and 26, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., come to the DAR Museum, 1776 D St. NW, for period room tours with a Halloween twist. Explore the rooms, discover the history behind candies invented across the United States, and collect treats along the way. Free. dar.org/museum.
American Youth Choristers Sing Halloween. Oct. 19, 11:30 a.m. Halloween music haunts the halls of Northeast Library, 330 Seventh St. NE, in a free performance. The choristers resurrect hallowed Latin text from the requiem mass, Dies irae (Day of Wrath). On the lighter side, spooky songs from Harry Potter, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and celebrating Día de Muertos, Oscar winning Recuerdame from Coco. congressionalchorus.org/ayc.
District of the Damned at DC Improv. Oct. 22, 7:30 p.m. Award winning comedy troupe Bad Medicine, brings you District of the Damned. A king-sized Halloween
Commemoration of All Souls’ Day and Choral Concert at the National Shrine. Nov. 2. The Mass schedule is: 7 a.m., Mass in the Crypt Church; 8 a.m., Mass in the Great Upper Church; and 12:10 p.m., Solemn Mass in the Great Upper Church; 7 p.m., Choral Concert for the Commemoration of All Souls. All Souls’ Day is a celebration to remember those who have died. It always falls on Nov. 2 and is preceded by Halloween on Oct. 31 and All Saints’ Day on Nov. 1. Together these days of remembrance form the religious observance of Hallowtide. nationalshrine.org.
Photo: Kitty Linton
ON WASHINGTON
sketch comedy show featuring all the most haunting laughs and scares Bad Medicine could dig up. $20 to $25. DC Improv is at 1140 Connecticut Ave. NW. dcimprov.com.
PumpkinPalooza at Alethia Tanner Park. Oct. 24 (rain date, Oct. 25), 4 to 8 p.m. Join NOMAbid at Alethia Tanner Park, 227 Harry Thomas Way NE, for their annual Halloween celebration with a pickyour-own pumpkin patch, live music, costume contests (for both people and pets!), a pop-up beer garden and movie screening. nomabid.org.
O Museum in the Mansion Halloween Nights Fun and Sweets. Oct. 25 to Nov. 2. Celebrate the BOO season on a zany journey around the O Museum, 2020 O St. NW. Come in costume and explore their 100 room Mansion–decorated for Halloween. $52.50. omuseum.org.
Night of the Living Zoo. Oct. 25, 7 to 11 p.m. Your ticket grants you after-hours access to the Zoo, an open cocktail bar, DJs, flash Tattoos, photo booths, two entertainment stages and food options available for purchase. $65 admission; $30 for parking. nationalzoo.si.edu.
Folger Friday Presents: A Very Spooky Halloween! Oct. 25, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. They’ll share scary stories about the haunting history of the Folger Shakespeare Library at 201 East Capitol St. SE, offer a bevy of eerie activities for everyone, and award prizes for the best costumes, all while getting down with live music and hosting a ghastly dance workshop. Make sure to R.S.V.P… if you dare. Free. folger.edu.
Hilloween at Eastern Market. Oct. 25, 5 to 7:30 p.m. Get ready for a spine-tingling adventure at Hilloween, the ultimate community event that delivers extra-spooky thrills and shriek-inducing excitement for families and kids of all ages. hilloweendc.com.
17th Street High Heel Race. Oct. 29, 5 to 9:30 p.m. The annual race is a time to celebrate the diversity of DC’s LGBTQ+ community and join thousands of costumed spectators to cheer on costumed drag queens, drag kings and community members as they race down 17th Street NW, P to S Street. gaytravel4u.com.
Miracle Theatre Halloween Music by Candlelight. Oct. 25, 7 p.m., A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics and 9 p.m., Best Horror Movie Soundtracks. Both by the Kennedy String Quartet and $52 to $65, each. Miracle Theatre, 536 Eighth St. SE. themiracletheatre.com.
Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) at the American Indian Museum. Oct. 26 and 27, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bring the whole family to participate in activities including dance performances, artist demonstrations, the unique art of sawdust carpets, coloring activities, and paper marigold and mask making. americanindian.si.edu.
Trick-or-Treating at Mount Vernon. Oct. 26, 2 to 6 p.m. (rain or shine), collect candy around the historic grounds and celebrate Halloween with 18thcentury entertainment and activities. Adults (12+), $30; kids, $25. mountvernon.org.
Nightmare in Navy Yard. Oct. 26, 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Nightmare in Navy Yard takes over the Capital Turnaround, featuring two DJs, two dance floors, a fivehour open bar, over 50 animatronics, haunted decor and a few new surprises in 2024. $49.99, plus tax, plus fees. nightmareinnavyyard.com.
Dia de los Muertos Family Day at SAAM. Oct. 26, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Featuring live performances, including traditional Mexican folk dance by Corazon Folklorico, a mariachi performance by Mariachi Aguila DC, and a showcase of Latin American music and dances with Sol y Rumba at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Eighth and G streets NW. Free; no registration required. americanart.si.edu.
Something Wicked at the Folger. Oct. 26, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (ages five to seven) and 1 to 2 p.m. (eight to fourteen), get spooky with Shakespeare’s ghosts and witches. Join the Folger on fun escapades as everyone explores the play’ hurly-burly elements. Free but registration is required. Costumes are not required but welcomed. folger.edu.
Anacostia Park Halloween Late Skate. Oct. 26, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Join Friends of Anacostia Park, the National Park Service, and their community partners for a day of music, recreation and kinship in DC’s most storied skating venue. Costumes welcomed. friendsofanacostiapark.org.
Nightmare on M Street Halloween Bar Crawl. Oct. 26, 2 to 10 p.m. The 26th annual Nightmare on M Street brings you Dupont’s newest bars and rooftops (16+ bars), 30+ DJs, drink specials, the largest costume contest, free raffles, surprise giveaways and signature party favors. Starting location at 1337 Connecticut Ave. NW. $20 to $40. eventbrite.com.
Family Spooky Disco at Dance Place. Oct. 26, 4 to 6 p.m. This intergenerational dance party features a live DJ, snacks, and party games. Get your costume on and get spooky with them. $15 admission; $40 for bundle of four; under two, free. Dance Place, 3225 Eighth St. NE. danceplace.org.
NSO Family Concert: Halloween Spooktacular! Oct. 27, 2 and 4 p.m. The Kennedy Center Concert Hall transforms into a ghostly sight when ghoulishly attired National Symphony Orchestra musicians, led by conductor Michelle Merrill, celebrate Halloween. Tickets are $25 to $28. The Halloween Spooktacular! is most enjoyed by ages five and older. kennedy-center.org.
Halloween Whodunit (Halloween Murder Mystery) at DC Improv. Oct. 30, 7:30 p.m. One, two... another mystery for you. Three, four...funnier than before. Five, six...Are the treats just tricks? Seven, eight...Let’s investigate! It’s an all-new Halloween murder for you to solve! $25. DC Improv is at 1140 Connecticut Ave. NW. dcimprov.com.
Terror Behind the Seams: Dissecting Historical Costumes in Film. On Halloween, Oct. 31, 6 to 9 p.m., explore the DAR Museum, 1776 D St. NW, and take a look at historic costumes as represented in film--with the Curator of Textiles and Costume. $25. Terrorbehindtheseams.eventbrite.com.
Live! At The Library: Halloween Happy Hour. Oct. 31, 5 to 8 p.m. Visitors are invited to enjoy happy hour snacks and drinks available for purchase in the Great Hall while immersing themselves in the library’s exhibits, collections and programs. Free tickets are required at loc.gov/live. u
Theater Night a Curated Review of Theater in the DMV
by Matthew McClure
Change. Along with death and taxes, it’s pretty much unavoidable. As we bid farewell to summer and welcome cooler temperatures, we’re reminded that change is an essential condition of humanity. This month’s column looks to change and the disruptors that drive it; creative practitioners that ask tough questions, or pioneer a new art form, or take the wheel of an organization to steer it through turbulent waters.
Behind the Curtain
I bumped into Jarrod Bennett (the new Executive Director of H Street’s Atlas Performing Arts Center) at the Woolly Mammoth Theater in early September, where we were celebrating the launch of DC Theatre Week. This was Bennett’s first official engagement in his new position and, with his easy smile, warm demeanor and infectious passion for the arts, it was easy to see why he’s been chosen for this important role. I sat down with him to chat about his plans for this important community resource.
What originally triggered your love for performing arts?
“As a kid I was an instrumentalist, and I remember hearing John Coltrane and telling my mom I want to be the jazz guy. Being introduced at a young age and in an open environment that allowed me to experiment with instruments really gave me a foot in the door. When I got to High School, I realized that I could sort of sing and seeing the music director’s influence on our jazz group with 6 singers really solidified my need to be in the arts. I’ve been in the arts in some shape and form since high school.”
Douglas Yuell leaves some big shoes to fill after 10 years at the helm. Will you stay the course or
plot a new trajectory for Atlas?
“A lot of the year has already been planned, but we’re in the process of planning Intersections (the Center’s annual performing arts festival). I do see some new programs coming in. I brought in our open mic nights, and I really want to continue building the relationships we have with our current partners but also bringing in new ones. As we start planning for next year, hopefully some new exciting programs are to come, especially around arts education. That’s a big passion of mine.”
H Street – where at the Atlas Performing Arts Center is located – has been buffeted by challenging economic conditions, the rising cost of doing business, and crime. How does the Center plan to tackle this?
“The Atlas was built to revitalize H Street, and I feel like we’re back in the space where the Atlas needs to be at the forefront of helping businesses and people on H Street thrive. Last year, as Director of Operations, we started partnering with preferred vendors on H Street. We’re driving business back to H Street.”
Your favorite piece of theater you’ve watched recently and why?
“Mexodus was phenomenal. I had no expectations and hadn’t read anything about it. I just wanted to support Mosaic Theater. It was the coolest thing that I’ve seen in a long time. From a technical perspective, the way they made that happen was phenomenal to me.”
What do you feel is the responsibility of theater in DC today?
“We’re a very charged environment. What I think theater and the arts in general is doing is allowing people to say things that people may not hear in a normal conversation, and that may open their minds a little more. In general, the arts being an avenue for having those conversations is very important. I hope the Atlas continues to be a place where productions can spark those conversations and help people to understand each other’s perspectives a bit more. I think the world needs more of that.
Want to meet Bennett in person? Join the Atlas’s Sing Out Piano Bar Open Mic Night every second or third Wednesday of the month, where the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington – of which Bennett is a member – perform selected musical numbers along with the H Street community. Check their calendar online for more information. www.atlasarts.org
In the Spotlight
Prayer for the French Republic, Theater J Showing Oct 30 – Nov 24 www.edcjcc.org
A pointed glare aimed in your direction. Narrowed eyes. A bigoted comment muttered under the breath. If you’ve ever been a victim
Jarrod Bennett. Ronte Photography.
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of discrimination, you’ll know that icky feeling is hard to forget, and that’s something that New York based playwright Joshua Harmon has been exploring through his work over 10 years. Hayley Finn, Theater J’s Artistic Director, is directing Harmon’s Prayer for the French Republic as part of the theater’s 2024/25 season. She’s acutely aware of the play’s ability to tackle tough questions about hate, safety and identity in a fraught political environment.
Harmon’s play focuses on five generations of a French-Jewish family living in France in 2016, as Marine le Pen’s far right National Rally party invokes the specters of antisemitism and illegal immigration in a heated bid for political power. “The play has a period in which it exists which resonates and reverberates and shifts as our world changes.” says Finn. “We consciously picked this
play to do in this moment because we see it as very relevant to our country. Joshua (Harmon) was certainly very aware of the parallels happening in this country and happening in France. Those themes are very important and pressing, and we must confront them.” In Harmon’s play, Molly visits her aunt Marcelle in France, leaving American shores and Trump Republicanism behind to arrive just in time for le Pen’s extreme far-right rhetoric and the incitement to violence that it invariably provokes. A shocking attack on Molly’s cousin Daniel –for wearing his yarmulke – forces the Benhamou clan to grapple with decades of inherited trauma connecting the present with the Jewish holocaust.
The weighty themes of Prayer for the French Republic are examined through the familiarity and vulnerability of family, Finn explains, which Theater J’s performance space amplifies to great effect. “This version feels very different because it’s on our stage and not a Broadway stage, so we’re leaning into the intimacy of the work. It’s really about those intimate family conversations which play very well within Theater J. The play delves into the dynamics of family that we’re going to recognize. The language and the dialogue is sharp. It has heavy themes for good reason, but there’s a sense of humor and levity, and we go from the very serious to the mundane and back and forth.”
work of DMV composers, librettists, poets, musicians, actors and playwrights that are remixing a medley of artforms to craft intellectually stimulating, socially conscious programming for audiences across the region.
Gelderloos, Galbraith and their team are celebrating a successful run of The Man Ray Project: Caesar & the Mannequin at the Atlas Center for Performing Arts but are already working
As audiences take their seats to watch Harmon’s play during a presidential election that feels like déjà vu, never have Jean-Baptiste Alphonse Karr’s words rung truer: The more things change, the more they stay the same.
Special Mention
The Alliance for New Music-Theatre is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Duane Gelderloos and Susan Galbraith—the Alliance’s Executive Director and Artistic Director respectively—have woven an ever-expanding net-
on their next series of projects. A special opera, to debut in April next year, will be released to celebrate DC Emancipation Day on April 16.. DC Emancipation and the Right to Vote will be composed by Ward 8’s Ronald ‘Trey’ Walton, in collaboration with Citizens of Georgetown and Mount Zion UMC as a commemoration of this momentous day in our city’s history, and the invaluable contributions made by its Black citizens residing in Georgetown.
Also not to miss this month will be The George Fulginiti Series: Cabaret, Cocktails, & Conversation designed, as Galbraith says, to generate “cross-cultural ideas about cabaret” by fusing Jazz with Cuban rhythms and even the musical flavors of Germany’s Weimar Republic. Check the Alliance for New Music-Theatre’s website regularly for updated schedules. www.newmusictheatre.org u
Hayley Finn, Theater J Artistic Director.
The Alliance for New Music-Theatre’s production of The Man Ray Project: Caesar & the Mannequin.
Show art for Prayer for the French Republic at Theater J.
WRITING CLASSES IN DC NOVEMBER 2024
Scan here for more info or go to: www.hillcenterdc.org/ partner/michelle-lafrance
WRITING DC: WRITING PLACE AND SPACE
Saturday, November 2nd
@ 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Every city has a story to tell. This workshop will focus on writing about DC (place and space-based) writing, including scenes, portraits/profiles, history, personal essays, and writing your daily life.
WRITING YOUR LIFE
Saturday, November 23rd @ 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Everyone has a story to tell. This workshop will focus on memoir, portraits/profiles, personal essays, and writing your life experiences.
Easy Dinner Tonight
Too tired to cook every night? You’re not alone. But here’s a solution that’s something delicious, sustainable and moderately-priced. Check out La Dinette, the culinary creation of Hill resident Chloe Revuz. Working in a space at Mess Hall, a commercial kitchen on Edgewood Street NE, Revuz prepares and delivers two to three-course dinners to about 30 local families.
“I grew up cooking with my parents,” said Chloe, as we spoke in her spacious kitchen o Lincoln Park. She was born 40 years ago in French-
Capitol Cuisine
by Celeste McCall
speaking Switzerland. Later, she studied in Tours, France. As an exchange student in Hamburg, she met fellow student, Mexican-born Jose Manuel. They got married and have two children: Santiago, 11, and 7-year-old Amaya.
The couple arrived in the US in 2010 and settled on Capitol Hill. Although Chloe was a project manager for an American company, she was ready for something di erent. “I loved to cook for my family, but doing it every day became a chore,” she explained. “Cooking was no longer fun, and I also realized that others had the same issues.”
So, in 2021, La Dinette was born. Revuz purchases most ingredients from Restaurant Depot, a wholesale food service supplier in Maryland. She delivers the meals in mostly reusable containers. Afterwards, her clients can leave the containers out for Chloe to pick up, wash and use again. Like the milk man of long ago, leaving milk bottles— and retrieving them the next day.
A typical La Dinette repast? Green salad with balsamic vinaigrette; Chicken Marry Me (a whole bird baked with cream, onions, garlic, sundried tomatoes and capers); and dessert, which might be Pavlova, the toothsome meringue classic. Revuz always offers vegetarian options.
La Dinette’s dinner for four comes to approximately $80. She also caters birthdays and corporate events.
For more information visit www.ladinettedc. com or email chloe@ ladinettedc.com.
New on Barracks Row
The new kid on the block is Compliments Only, a sub/sandwich shop at 526 Eighth St. SE. The Barracks Row newcomer is a spinoff of the same-named Dupont Circle mainstay. Sandwiches have clever—if cutesy—monikers like the Teamster, Never Been Cheddar, Hot Pants, Sicky Wicky Club.
You can also create your own sub with myriad ingredients. Shortly after Compliments Only opened, we ordered the Teamster, an Italian montage of ham, capicola, hot and sweet peppers, provolone, shredded lettuce and a splash of vinegar. Served on a soft roll, the sub met our expectations, plenty of meat, cheese and ripe tomato. Even better is the Sticky Wicky club, a delicious concoction of sliced turkey, ham, crisp bacon, tomato, shredded lettuce and wonderfully messy Duke mayo. The goodies are all snuggled inside a soft roll.
A luscious Crunchy Boi sub from Compliments Only, the new sub/ sandwich shop on Barracks Row.
Chloe Revuz, who operates La Dinette meal service, gathers fresh ingredients for a client’s healthful supper.
To wash down your lunch: Coke, Honest Tea, Dr. Brown’s Cream soda and refreshing Natalie’s Lemonade. The drill is fast-casual: Place your order and pay at the counter, receive a number and await your food. Although Compliments Only offers a few seats, we opted for carryout. Service is swift and friendly. Open daily. For more information visit www.complimentsonlysubs.com.
Paris at the Wharf
After returning from a Potomac River boat ride with friends, we enjoyed a delightful, early supper at Bistro du Jour, 99 District Square SW. On this Labor Day weekend, with the jazz festival in full swing, the Wharf was jam-packed. But at 6 p.m., our group of six was seated immediately. Our server, Mademba, was excellent. Sipping glasses of Rose du Provance and Sauvi-
UPCOMING PROGRAMS STUDIO ARTS
Introduction to Linocut Printmaking Course Classes begin Tuesday, October 1, 6:30pm-8:00pm Contemporary Watercolors Course Classes begin Monday, October 7, 6:30pm-8:00pm Contemporary Watercolors Workshop
Saturday, October 19, 12:00pm-2:00pm Introduction to Linocut Printmaking Workshop
Saturday, October 19, 2:30pm-5:00pm
Photographing and Styling Food Featuring Noted Food Photographer
Deb Lindsey and Veteran Food Editor Bonnie Benwick
Saturday, October 26, 11:00am-2:00pm CONCERTS
American Roots Concert Series: Leon Timbo
Sunday, October 6, 4:30pm 20th Annual FODfest (Friends of Daniel Pearl) Community Concert Presented in Partnership with Music in Common Thursday, October 10, 7:00pm
American Roots Concert Series: Kyshona
Sunday, October 20, 4:30pm
gnon Blanc, we chose lighter menu options, rather than ordering a full dinner. (Entrees veer toward the traditional, offering moules frites, coq au vin, steak au poivre.)
Some of us ordered French onion soup, rich beef broth simmering with lots of gooey cheese, and not salty like some versions. My quiche Lorraine (the other quiche choice was a seasonal veggie version with feta and bell peppers), was chock full of ham and onion, with a crisp crust. The accompanying green salad was a tad vinegary, but Madema promptly brought me a saucer of olive oil. Salad Nicoise was replete with black olives, potatoes, haricot vert (green beans), hard-boiled egg and sardines, all napped with a Dijon vinaigrette.
Since we were a party of six, we were charged a 20 percent gratuity. Dinner for two with a glass of wine apiece came to $70. Part of
Global Sounds on the Hill Featuring LOBOKO Live: NYC’s Congolese Dance Music Sensation Friday, October 25, 7:00pm Stone Room Concerts @ Hill Center Featuring Upcycled Celtic Folk Trio House of Hamill Sunday, October 27, 4:30pm
COOKING CLASSES & TASTINGS
Tiny Cooking School Featuring Magpie and the Tiger Chefs Caleb Jang and Roren Choi: The Art of Korean Dumplings
Friday, October 4, 11:00am
Thai Flavors with Marianne Tshihamba
Saturday, October 5, 11:00am
Chef’s Table Featuring Storied Chinese Chef Peter Chang
Sunday, October 6, 1:00pm SOLD OUT
Sushi with Chef Wendi James Monday, October 7, 6:00pm
Kitchen 101: Knife Skills with Chef Wendi James
Tuesday, October 8, 6:00pm
Mixology Lab Featuring Cocktail Ace Britt Fox
Sunday, October 13, 2:00pm
Stretching Your Wine Budget @ Trader
Joe’s Part Two: Quality + Affordability + Tips to Help you Define Your Palate
Preferences Featuring Wine Expert Janet Cam
Tuesday, October 15, 6:30pm
Cooking for One: Lunch Now + Later
Featuring Veteran Food Writer Bonnie Benwick
Wednesday, October 16, 11:00am
Long Lunch: Paella with Chef Mark Haskell
Friday, October 18, 11:30am
Chen ou Jen, the National Dish of Senegal, with Marianne Tshihamba
Saturday, October 19, 11:00am
Kitchen 101: Knife Skills with Chef Wendi James
Tuesday, October 22, 6:00pm
Macarons with Chef Wendi James Monday, October 28, 6:00pm
LECTURES & CONVERSATIONS
Revisiting Reconstruction in DC: Freedom Was in Sight! Historian Kate Masur Discusses her New Book in Conversation with Maya Davis
Wednesday, October 9, 7:00pm
The Life of a Poet Featuring Celebrated Poet and Essayist Camonghne Felix in Conversation with Kyle Dargan
Thursday, October 17, 7:00pm
International Bestselling author Alexander McCall Smith Discusses his work in Conversation with AwardWinning mystery writer Sunita Massey
Friday, October 18, 7:00pm
Our City. Our Music. Our Writers, Featuring Philip Kennicott and Anne Midgette
Tuesday, October 22, 7:00pm
Talk of the Hill with Bill Press
Featuring Celebrated Spy Novelist Daniel Silva
Wednesday, October 23, 7:00pm
Profs & Pints DC: Washington’s Spookiest Days
Thursday, October 24, 6:00pm
Programmatic support provided by the
Classic quiche Lorraine is a delicious light repast at the District Wharf’s Bistro du Jour.
ATRS
KNEAD HOSPITALITY + Design, the threeyear-old Bistro du Jour is open daily, including breakfast. For exact hours and more information visit www.bistro-dujour.com.
zakis. Right before the dinner, participants receive their “assignments.” You don’t HAVE to read the book; it’s a dinner party not a book club. You may even dress up like a favorite character if you wish. Dinners go from 6:30 to 8:45 p.m., followed by a reception at the Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. To register, purchase tickets and for more information visit www.aliteraryfeast.org.
Coming Soon, if not already...
You will soon find Craft Brewery Wine Bar at 1335 H St. NE, the site of the departed Old H Street Country Club. The mini-golf bar folded last July after 14 years in business. For updates visit www.barredindc.com.....and coming soon to 219 Pennsylvania Ave. SE is Butterworth’s Café, Restaurant and Bar, where Stanton & Greene used to be.
Literary Fun
Coming up October 19: The annual Literary Feast. This entertaining, educational and delicious evening is a fundraiser for the Capitol Hill Community Foundation. Here’s the deal: More than two dozen Capitol Hill neighbors will host dinners at their homes featuring a particular book. A list of titles has been published, and people can choose several, in order of preference. This year’s selections include “A Plate of Hope,” by chef/humanitarian Jose Andres; “Death Comes for the Archbishop,” by Willa Cather; “Zorba the Greek,” by Nicholas Kazant-
On Barracks Row, Union Kitchen plans to take over the former Subway space at 430 Eighth St. SE. The 1,400-square-foot café/grocery will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. It will also sell “specialty” grocery items and housewares. Providing career opportunities and space for budding entrepreneurs, Union Kitchen is a local group headquartered at 1369 New York Ave. NE, in Ivy City. For updates and more information visit www.unionkitchen.com.....and DC Falafel has opened at 1123 Pennsylvania Ave. SE (www. dcfalafel.com).
Bier Hier
There’s still time to catch the 40th annual Oktoberfest at Café Berlin, 322 Mass. Ave. NE. Until October 22, guests can enjoy bratwurst, sauerkraut, jumbo pretzels, sauerbraten, beer and much more. As well as lively oom-pa- pa music. On October 12, chef Rico Glage will roast an entire spanferkel (young pig) outside. For menu, prices, and reservations (highly recommended!) visit www.cafeberlin-dc.com.
Congrats!
Happy anniversary to Bowers Fancy Dairy Products, which marks its 60th year in business on October 1. Since 1964, the Bowers family has been selling artisan cheeses and other gourmet delights in Eastern Market’s South Hall. Here’s to another six decades of success! (Eastern Market is closed Mondays.) For more information on Bowers cheese, visit www.bowerscheese.com.
Adios for now!
In October, Peter and I are headed for a warm, historic, and delicious Mediterranean cruise. So we will not provide Capitol Cuisine in November. See you in December! u
Another Bistro du Jour winner is the generous salade Nicoise, replete with tuna, olives, egg and more.
In Eastern Market’s South Hall, Mike Bowers (Bowers Fancy Dairy Products) celebrates 60th years in business.
Art and the City
by Phil Hutinet
Hemphill Fine Arts
RUSH BAKER IV “Landscapes” Through October 26 hemphillartworks.com
In “Landscapes,” Rush Baker IV presents a striking fusion of abstraction, historical imagery, and material experimentation. His third solo exhibition with HEMPHILL Artworks since 2016, the show highlights Baker’s innovative technique of layering resin, pigment, plaster, and found materials to reinterpret Civil War-era visual culture while drawing connections to contemporary socio-political issues.
Baker incorporates historical references from pivotal battles like Charleston, Atlanta, and Gettysburg, blending maps, photographs, and print media from the 19th century into his richly textured surfaces. These layers create a dynamic tension between past and present, juxtaposing the idealized, romanticized imagery of the Civil War with the complexities of today’s socio-political climate. Through this lens, Baker explores the in-
tractable challenges of the 21st century.
Baker’s labor-intensive process transforms painting into a sculptural medium. He embeds materials such as tile and aluminum shingles into layers of plaster and resin, allowing light to filter through and reveal the depth and complexity of his technique. Viewed from the side, the stratified layers create a multidimensional experience that challenges traditional notions of painting.
By merging historical abstraction with modern materials, Baker crafts a powerful commentary on America’s past and present, offering a visually and conceptually rich reimagining of history. 434 K Street NW, Washington, DC. Gallery hours are Tuesday - Saturday, 12-5 p.m. and by appointment. 202-234-5601.
National Museum of Women in the Arts
Suchitra Mattai “Myth from Matter” Through Jan 12, 2025 nmwa.org
The National Museum of Women in the Arts presents “Suchitra Mattai: Myth from Matter”, the first solo exhibition in Washington, DC, by multidisciplinary artist Suchitra Mattai (b. 1973, Georgetown, Guyana). The exhibition features Mattai’s large-scale textile installations, sculptures, collages, and paintings, alongside historical artworks from Europe and South Asia, fostering a dynamic visual dialogue between past and present, East and West.
Drawing on her Indo-Caribbean heritage, Mattai uses textiles, found objects, and beads to create vibrant, layered works that explore themes of history, identity, and belonging. Her art challenges the binaries of male and female, art and
craft, labor and leisure, while reimagining historical narratives from the perspective of women and people of color—particularly those of South Asian descent. In her work, Mattai examines how certain stories persist while others are erased, asking viewers to reconsider who is monumentalized in visual culture and whose presence is often left out.
The juxtaposition of Mattai’s contemporary pieces with historical artworks serves as a reexamination of colonial histories, reclaiming materials and spaces once associated with oppression. Her bright, warm-colored textiles and soft materials envision a more inclusive, egalitarian future.
Her evocative use of material and form, Mattai creates new mythologies that elevate marginalized voices, challenging viewers to rethink the stories we tell about the past. 1250 New York Ave. NW Washington, DC. Exhibition Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy free admission on the first Sunday and second Wednesday of every month. Holiday Closures: NMWA is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Exhibition Location: Second Floor. (202)783-5000
National Museum of the American Indian
DY Begay “Sublime Light: Tapestry Art of DY Begay” Through July 13, 2025 americanindian.si.edu
"Sublime Light: The Tapestry Art of DY Begay" at Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian offers a rare and comprehensive look at the work of acclaimed fiber artist DY Begay (Diné [Navajo], b. 1953). This major retrospective,
Rush Baker IV, “Untitled (Gettysburg Landscape)”, 2024, acrylic, resin, paper and plaster on canvas, 40 x 30 inches. Courtesy Hemphill Fine Arts
which runs through July 13, 2025, presents 48 of Begay’s most notable tapestries, celebrating more than three decades of innovation.
Begay’s tapestries are a harmonious blend of traditional Diné techniques and modern artistic exploration. Deeply connected to her Navajo heritage, particularly her homeland of Tsélaní, Begay’s work explores the dynamic interaction between color, design, and ber. Her tapestries not only capture the beauty of the natural landscapes she calls home but also o er a unique perspective on the world through a nonWestern lens.
Curated by Cécile R. Ganteaume, Jeanne Brako, and Jennifer McLerran, this exhibition positions Begay’s work as both a celebration of Navajo artistry and a modern statement. Visitors to the museum will experience rsthand the quiet yet profound impact of Begay’s tapestries, which re ect not only her personal journey but also the broader narrative of Indigenous
art in contemporary society. 4th St. & Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC. Open daily: 10:00 am to 5:30 pm. Closed December 25.
Zenith Gallery
We're not Going Back Through October 12 zenithgallery.com
Zenith Gallery’s latest exhibition, "We Are Not Going Back," is an artistic response to 2024's momentous political landscape, inspired by Kamala Harris’ historic presidential campaign. Timed to coincide with the presidential election this fall, the exhibition showcases a diverse range of works by over 35 artists, each channeling the energy and optimism of what they hope is a nation on the brink of change.
The featured artists—including Doba Afolabi, F. Lennox Campello, Cheryl Edwards, and Michela Mansuino—explore themes of perseverance, progress, and collective hope through paintings, sculptures, mixed media, and prints. The artworks re ect the dynamic spirit of the campaign, celebrating the power of unity and forward momentum.
The gallery continues its tradition of presenting socially engaged art and the wide array of artistic expression in this exhibition serves as a testament to the artists’ belief in the transformative power of art as a force of political expression. Through varied perspectives and media, the exhibition captures a shared vision for the future—one lled with resilience, optimism, and progress.
"We Are Not Going Back" offers a unique opportunity to experience how contemporary art responds to and shapes the conversation around critical issues in American society. It’s not just about politics; it’s about imagining what comes next and standing rm in the resolve that we are indeed, regardless of the election’s outcome, "not going back." 1429 Iris Street, NW, Washington DC. Gallery Hours: Wednesday – Saturday, 12:00 to 6:00 p.m. or by appointment. 202783-2963
DY Begay (Diné, b. 1953) in her studio. Santa Fe, New Mexico. Photo: Peter Ellzey, 2022.
“The Winning” Team by Cheryl Elmo. Image: Zenith Gallery.
In Celebration of the Hill’s Great Art Walk
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
On a beautifu September Saturday, Capitol Hill resident Sarah Hanks spent most of it on a gallery tour. It was an artsy journey that took her down her street and through her neighborhood on the second annual Capitol Hill Art Walk.
“I met some amazing artists and even got a tour of my dear friend Will Fleishell’s art studio on Archibald Walk,” Hanks said. She also collected, picking out a piece of hanging pottery from local artist (and coowner of Capitol Hill Pottery) Sarah Buffaloe and an original photograph of her favorite Lincoln Park bench from up-and-coming local photographer, Celia Hendric.
Hanks is an artist herself—she’s Suzuki Violin Teacher at The Capitol Hill Arts Workshop (CHAW) and a violinist in the Capital City Symphony. “As a fulltime career musician on Capitol Hill, it’s important for me to support our local artists any chance I get,” she said.
The Capitol Hill Art Walk provided plenty of opportunity. This year, the event featured eighty artists who set up their displays at various locations throughout the neighborhood—in front yards, studios, near popular eateries and in back alleys. Visitors could find them using an online map or as printed in the Hill Rag. It was a chance to meet artists, view and buy their work, all while taking a glorious tour of Capitol Hill.
“Artists at Home”
The event began in 2021 as “Artists at Home,” a COVID-era replacement for the Capitol Hill Restoration Society (CHRS) Annual House and Garden tour. In the wake of the pandemic, CHRS was looking for a way to continue the tour, then in its 63rd year, despite the fact that indoor gatherings were severely limited.
“I didn’t want the first year that I was the Chair to be the first year *ever* that we missed the house tour – but of course it was COVID,” said Elizabeth Nelson, a former president of CHRS, “So, we came up with ‘Artists at Home’.”
The art tour was temporarily dropped in 2022 when the house tour returned. But it was resurrected in 2023 at the request of the Capitol Hill Art League (CHAL), which took on the organizational role.
And with each subsequent year, the Art Walk has doubled in size, from 20 participants in 2022 to 40 in 2023. This year, there were about 80 participants at 47 different sites.
“All credit goes to Elizabeth Nelson,” said CHAL member Tara Hamilton, who helped organize the 2024 Art Walk.
“It’s coming close to doubling [annually],” Nelson said, “but we think that’s because of the Hill Rag. The Hill Rag was a co-sponsor and published maps and lists
of artists online and in the August issue. While organizers didn’t count attendees, artists report that a constant stream of visitors came to the stalls, urged along by perfect weather. In addition to exploring local art, the event was also a chance to meet neighbors and see corners of the neighborhood attendees had not previously explored.
Michael Greene with his portraits in the DCVA Community Center dining room. Courtesy: K. Andrews-Weller.
The crowd checks out the art in front of Wine and Butter (1023 East Capitol St. NE). Courtesy: Rindy O’Brien
DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (CAH) Executive Director Aaron Myers (L) speaks with Ava, a young Capitol Hill Art Walk attendee. Elizabeth Nelson is to his left. Photo: Jon Golinger
Like Hamilton, co-organizer Rindy O’Brien showed her art during the Art Walk. She said it was an opportunity to discover truly local art —and artists in our neighbors.
“I think it’s really great for us to introduce art that’s not in the National Gallery of Art, that’s made by local neighbors and residents which brings a di erent perspective and quality to the work. It’s amazing what people do,” O’Brien said. “I’m always amazed that there’s someone I probably see 100 times a month and I had no idea that they were artists. So it’s a great way for people to get to know their neighbors better, as well as to get to know all the different kinds of art.”
Different Lives, Different Artists
Art Walk participants encountered new art—and the di erent kinds of artists. You may know Kasse Andrews-Weller by her sun ower series. It was created in support of the US entry into Ukraine and was exhibited at Hill Center. She also creates kente mosaics, working with African fabric and ceramic and paper on a wood backing. But
Sarah Hanks purchased a piece of pottery from local artist (and coowner of Capitol Hill Pottery) Sarah Buffaloe. Photo: S. Hanks
Andrews-Weller is also an Army and Air Force Veteran who is now a military a liated art organizer and instructor. She was determined to feature the work of veterans at the Art Walk.
Andrews-Weller organized in a front yard on Fifth Street NE featuring tiny oil piccolos by Navy Corpsman Shakoufeh Shadabi, the paper sculptures of disabled Army Veteran April Goodwin Gill and the postage-stamp sized watercolors of Navy Veteran Shanita Osman.
Osman was also an artist in Singapore. She married her spouse, now in Army Special Ops at Fort Belvoir, and came to Amer-
ica with only a suitcase, said Andrews-Weller.
“She said you know, she had to realize that she had to live out of a suitcase,” AndrewsWeller relayed. “So that’s why she does tiny little art so she can always be portable and always have her art.” Osman sold nearly a dozen of her postage-stamp sized landscapes.
But Andrews-Weller gushes over the portraiture of Michael Greene, an Army Veteran living at the DC VA Medical Center. “Greene does nothing but portraits of people and anybody that comes into the VA,” she said. The Monday prior to the Art Walk, Andrews-Well saw Greene with his works spread out on tables in the dining room of the VA community center. She convinced him to participate.
Greene sold many of his portraits on the
Art Walk and even picked up a commission. It means a lot to him, she said. “Being able to sell his work provides him with a sense of legitimacy —it validates that he truly is an artist.”
Letting the Arts Shine
DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (CAH) Executive Director Aaron Myers also participated in the Artwalk. He visited about a dozen artists in his hour-long tour, sharing information with artists about the DC Art Bank which purchases art for display in District Government buildings. Myers said he purchased a bingo game made of Capitol Hill images by O’Brien that now graces his o ce.
“I believe [the Art Walk] is a testament to what a community can really do when they let the arts shine,” Myers said.
He was most impressed with the camaraderie among participants, Myers said, from those who were career artists to those who had taken their work up upon retirement.
“There’s a lot of people who truly love art on the Hill,” Myers said. “The Hill doesn’t take it for granted—they embrace it.”
You can learn more about the Capitol Hill Art League (CHAL) at www.caphillartleague. org. See the full list of artists at https://www.hillrag.com/2024/08/17/art-walk-2024/ ◆
Rindy O’Brien and her granddaughter, Charlie, in front of the table displaying her bingo boxes. Courtesy: Rindy O’Brien
Guests on the Art Walk examine the works of Active Duty Navy Corpsman Shokoufeh Shadabi. Courtesy: K. Andrews-Weller
SUNDAY OCT. 6 11AM-3PM
Featuring:
Author talks & panel discussions, Children’sCornerwith story times & family activities
Exhibitors including – East City Bookshop, The Writer’s Center, Poet Lore, Capitol Hill Books, Stirred Stories, Platypus Media/ Science Naturally!, and others.
Morethan 40 writers, including:
Marie Arana
Canden Arciniega
Louis Bayard
Amanda Becker
Scott W. Berg
I. S. Berry
Rebecca Bishophall
Sponsored by Capital Community News, Inc., with financial support from the Capitol Hill Community Foundation and the estate of Walter Quetsch, with special thanks to Tunnicliff’s Tavern.
Kaitlin Calogera
Austin S. Camacho
Pat Carlucci
Sanaa B. Chege
Varu Chilakamarri
John Cochran
Susan Coll
Nicole Cuffy
Buck Downs
James Grady
Rebecca Grawl
Jon Grinspan
Donna Hemans
JoAnn Hill
Deepa Iyer
Hena Khan
Liz Kleinrock
John Lawson III
Dwayne Lawson-Brown
Gregory Luce
Tania James
Chloe Yelena Miller
K.T. Nguyen
Sean O’Brien
Frances Park
POETS’ CORNER
@ TUNNICLIFF’S
3PM on the patio at Tunnicliff’s Tavern across from Eastern Market
Readings by noted local poets followed by open-mic poetry readings (sign up at the poetry table at the BookFest or, after 3pm, at Tunnicliff’s)
Ginger Park
Suzanne Parry
Stephen T. Person
Christine Platt
Caroline Kusin Pritchard
Philip Reari
Rebecca Boggs Roberts
Shannon Sanders
Gina Schaefer
Amanda Shaw
Stephen Spotswood
Georgina Warren
C.K. Westbrook
Lauri Williamson
the Literary Hill
Three Thrilling Reads for Fall
by Michelle LaFrance
If, like me, you just didn’t want summer to end, this month’s reads that are sure to bring back the playfulness and fun of a perfect summer afternoon!
In this month’s interview, Wall Street Journal bestselling author and DC resident, Matt FitzSimmons spoke to us about writing The Slate. Due out October 8th, The Slate will undoubtedly entice readers of FitzSimmon’s Gibson Vaughn and Constance series with its equally fast pacing, deliciously corrupt politicians, and heaps of dirty laundry.
Hill Rag: Capitol Hill is the backdrop of The Slate. In what ways did living and writing in DC inform aspects of the story?
Matt FitzSimmons: My family moved to Washington when I was twelve, so while I’m not from here I call it home. It’s hard to articulate to anyone who has lived in DC for less than twenty years how much the city has changed in that time. We’ve watched gentrification move south and east across the city, leaving the façades of neighborhoods intact while sweeping the character and memory of places clean. When most of the important locations of your youth are now a CVS, it can trigger a tedious kind of nostalgia if you’re not careful. I lent that unease to Agatha, a DC native, to highlight her isolation and discontent at the beginning of the book. She lives in her memories and is drawn to a place like Eastern Market on the weekends precisely because it has endured through so much change.
HR: You write about political corruption and ambitious politicians. Did you draw inspiration from actual scandals, events, or histories as you were writing?
MF: Not to be opaque, but I probably drew on all of them. The details of political scandal might be unique, but motivations are grimly predictable. Live here long enough, and the lifecycle of a Washington scandal takes on a familiar arc. It’s been said that the rules have changed of late, but I’d argue
that the underlying algorithm weighing political capital against public outrage is remarkably resilient. Only the variables that decide if a public figure survives or resigns in disgrace change, and there are people in this town who specialize in playing those variables like instruments. In Agatha Cardiff, I wanted just such a musician. The person you want in your corner when seeing your name in the paper is no longer a cause for celebration.
HR: What inspired you to write a character like Agatha Cardiff?
MF: I’ve always been drawn to the fixer archetype – the character playing the game from the shadows who knows the lever to pull or string to pluck. Most of the great fixers in fiction have been men, although I suspect that’s not a reflection of the real world. When I first conceived of the book, it never crossed my mind that the protagonist would be anything but a woman. Agatha always felt true to me. The Slate is reviewed below.
October Reviews
The Slate
Matt FitzSimmons
Fans of the television shows Scandal and House of Cards will love FitzSimmon’s breathless thriller, complete with shady power brokers and scandalous backscratching connections between the Supreme Court and the Oval Office. Through it, Agatha Cardiff juggles Washington’s secrets, a missing tenant, corruption, blackmail, and deception. Will she find her own redemption? Can she forgive herself? Or will Agatha’s past inevitably ask for a righteous comeuppance?
Hall of Mirrors
In John Copenhaver’s sexy sequel to The Savage Kind, Judy Nightingale and Philippa Watson find themselves chasing a serial killer in through the Lavender Scare in 1950s DC. When Roger Raymond, a friend and mystery writer, dies in a suspicious “homosexual suicide,” the queer investigators team up with Ray-
Matt FitzSimmons
John Copenhaver
mond’s grieving lover, diving into a web of shady government conspiracy. As they reencounter an old nemesis, Adrian Bodgan, expect twists, turns, and plot re-routings like a GPS in ballgame tra c. For readers who savor a brain tickle with their rising body heat, Copenhaver layers this mystery with gorgeous smatterings of queer history.
The Vanishing Man
When Yuri Kozlov dumps Mother Russia for the US, the longtime spy nds his transition to the US won’t be easy, in this rst book of the new Spy Who Vanished trilogy by Alma Katsu. Would you trust the “Russian James Bond” simply because he’s defected? Yuri’s CIA handlers are not in the least convinced he’s done
with international espionage, despite Yuri’s charm during debrie ng and psychological probing. Yuri’s intentions are honorable, he swears! Katsu’s Red Widow made Book Riot’s list of top ten spy novels—The Vanishing Man is sure to capture similar accolades.
“Whose Democracy?”:
The Folger’s 2024 O.B. Hardison Poetry Series
Join fellow poetry lovers for the 56th season of the O.B. Hardison Poetry Series, showcasing the theme “Whose Democracy?” and featuring an exciting lineup of acclaimed poets like Blas Falconer, Kimiko Hahn, Paul Muldoon, Yesenia Montilla, Claudia Rankine, and more. Highlights of the season include the annual Emily Dickinson tribute, the Anthony Hecht Poetry Prize, and special events like the Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration and the 2025 Welty Lecture by Amor Towles.
The Folger offers tickets to attend readings in person or via streaming media. Tickets start at $20 for in-person. Virtual access is pay-what-you-will. Season subscriptions and ex passes are available for those looking to dive into multiple readings. Tickets available at: www. folger.edu/poetry!
Michelle LaFrance is Associate Professor of English at George Mason University. Writers of all experience levels are invited to join her at the Hill Center in November for two writing classes, Writing DC and Writing Your Life. Classes provide a supportive, fun afternoon of writing practice and neighborhood connection. See the programming calendar at https://www. hillcenterdc.org for more details. ◆
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Poetic Hill Kyle Dargan
by Sandra Beasley
(from the Intersections series)
15TH & INDEPENDENCE
38.887559, -76.984029
Maybe this is an experiment in induced patriotism–a white moonlight backdrop for a rave of red-blue
ashes from unmanned Interceptors scarecrowing at every corner in a two-block radius.
Maybe this is just what happens when a block’s news outgrows the mouths of the grandmothers
who used to relay it–you heard all them gunshots–and now, instead, doorbell cameras
capture ickers of barrel bursts and the distorted pows of boys releasing Ruger clips into the darkness.
And then it has popped up on NBC4, then the apps. And then it is another reason D.C. can’t be
self-governed And then it is an albatross circling the Mayor’s head. And then–
And now all this bitter light. Floodlights. cruiser lights, all night. My house is not here. But I ride through
en route to my Southeast. Before I pass the Armory and RFK soon-to-be mercy-imploded, this was a quiet
triangle before the river, beyond which I knew I might need to nerve myself against what roves east of the Anacostia.
This used to be so quiet, I swore I could smell it, but now, it is so bright, it burns.
Kyle G. Dargan has lived in Washington, D.C., for twenty years as a writer, editor, arts programmer, and teacher, supporting entities from the President’s Committee on the Arts and Humanities to 826DC. A graduate of the University of Virginia, he has published six poetry collections, most recently Panzer Herz: A Live Dissection. His work has garnered the Cave Canem Prize, the Hurston-Wright Legacy Award, the Lenore Marshall Prize and has been a finalist for the Kingsley Tufts Award and longlisted for the Pulitzer Prize. He is currently a professor of creative communication at American University and books editor for Janelle Monáe’s creative company, Wondaland. He resides in Ward 7.
Sandra Beasley is the curator of “Poetic Hill,” a resident of Southwest, and the author of four poetry collections. If you live in D.C. and you’re interested in being featured, you can reach her at sandrabeasley@earthlink.net for questions and submissions (1-5 poems). u
BAVARIAN BRUNCH AND LIVE GERMAN FOLK MUSIC
FOLK MUSIC
KIDSTOBERFEST WITH LIVE GERMAN FOLK MUSIC
BAVARIAN BRUNCH AND LIVE GERMAN FOLK MUSIC
A Look at the At-Large Race
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
On Nov. 5, voters in the District will select two candidates to represent them as at-large members on DC Council.
Four candidates are on the ballot. These include two incumbent Councilmembers: Christina Henderson (independent), and Robert White, Jr. (Democrat). Also on the ballot are Rob Simmons (Republican) and Darryl Moch (Statehood Green); Mr. Simmons and Mr. Moch did not respond to multiple queries in time for publication.
Christina Henderson
www.christinahenderson.org
Born in New York, Christina Henderson worked for At-Large Councilmember David Grosso and US Senator Chuck Schumer before her successful run for DC Council in 2020. She considers DC her rst permanent home and currently lives in Petworth with her spouse and two children.
Henderson believes that a zip code should not determine opportunity for success. She has focused on improving access to health care with a particular focus on maternal health outcomes, championing and funding the Maternal Health/Resources Act legislating that DC Medicaid and Alliance programs cover doula services. As Chair of the DC Council Committee on Health, she has overseen the construction of the new Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center and works to improve access to health care east of the river beyond the emergency room, such as psychologists, dentists,
ophthalmologists and optometrists. Henderson also chairs the Regional Transportation Planning committee. The highest number of tra c fatalities have happened in wards 7 and 8, she said. She has been trying to move the committee to take action less focused on enforcement and more on ways to change the infrastructure around places like schools, recreation centers, libraries and senior centers. To address concerns at the O ce of Uni ed Communications (OUC), which answers 911 calls, Henderson introduced the Retired Fireghter and Police O cer Redeployment Emergency Amendment Act permitting re ghters and police o cers to be rehired at OUC as 911 call takers and dispatchers without impacting pension bene ts.
Henderson says kids aged 11 to 13 often think they are too old to go to DPR activities, but are too young to work; she has engaged with the Department of Employment Services (DOES) to come up with programming to keep those young people engaged in a productive manner.
Robert White, Jr.
www.reelectrobertwhite.com
Robert White, Jr. is a fth generation Washingtonian who grew up in a single-parent family. He now lives in Ward 4 with his wife and two daughters. First elected in 2016, White says that his history of limited means informs his policies on housing and public safety. White is now Chair of the Committee on Housing, where he wants to focus on improving access
Independent At-Large Councilmember Christina Henderson is running for reelection. Photo: Courtesy Reelect Christina Henderson
Jackie Sink
202.352.5793
jackie.sink@compass.com
Libby Clarke
202.841.1812
libby.clarke@compass.com
Crystal Crittenden
202.246.0931
crystal.crittenden@compass.com
to and availability of a ordable housing. As a youth, when his family struggled with housing, someone always had a couch for them. But when people lack that support network, he said, the government must step in. Everyone from DC should be able to stay in DC, but White said working class families like his, including his father, have now been priced out of DC.
H is working to hold the Ofce of United Communications to account to ensure that 911 calls are answered correctly and quickly and that the crime lab provides support to detectives and prosecutors.
White says DC is at a cross-
Incumbent At-Large Councilmember Robert White, Jr. is running for reelection. Photo: Courtesy Reelect Robert White
roads. The city needs to address the root causes of crime by protecting SNAP benefits and ending the housing voucher backlog. He believes there is an opportunity to transform downtown, the engine of the District’s economy, working with private-public partnerships to retrofit vacant office space into residential units. This will activate communities and invigorate downtown businesses. He has proposed DC create a unified art district to attract more visitors and make DC into an arts and entertainment hub.
White said he has worked to increase the quality of education. If he is re-elected, he wants to increase vocational opportunities with trade unions and promote financial literacy programs in the schools. u
Meet the SBOE Candidates
by Sarah Payne
On Nov. 5, residents will have an opportunity to elect representatives to the DC State Board of Education (SBOE). The SBOE has nine members, one from each of the District’s eight wards and one atlarge member, who are directly elected by voters.
Board members serve staggered four year terms so no more than five seats are up for reelection in any given year. Seats for Wards 2, 4, 7, 8 and At-Large are up for election this fall while terms in Wards 1, 3, 5 and 6 will extend to 2027.
Now it is time to meet the candidates.
At-Large
Jacque Patterson
Jacque Patterson currently serves as the at-large member of the SBOE. He is a parent and community activist with 25 years of experience in educational advocacy work. In his tenure as a board member, Patterson has redesigned the District’s social studies standards to ensure they embrace the “diverse cultural and ethnic histories” of students and promote respect for diverse perspectives both in and out of the classroom. He believes a student’s zip code should not determine their quality of educational opportunities or life outcomes and, if reelected, he plans to continue to organize and elevate the community around equitable resources. He plans to continue advocating for and supporting the needs of teachers and dismantling systemic racism in schools. For more information, visit www.jacque4dc.com.
Ward 7
Eboni-Rose
Thompson
Eboni-Rose Thompson is the current SBOE President and Ward 7 representative to the board. She also works in education philanthropy, advocating
for equity in public education, and is a former commissioner for ANC 7F, DCPS teacher and Chair of the Ward 7 Education Council. Under Thompson’s leadership, the DC council launched a citywide Special Education Hub and established DC’s first ever financial literacy standards and literacy recommendations. Thompson is seeking reelection to improve outcomes for special education students, introduce additional pathways for students including entrepreneurship, college and vocational education. She will continue to fight for “high quality schools” in every neighborhood of Ward 7. For more information, visit www.ebonirosedc.com.
Charles Boston
Charles Boston is an engineer, community advocate and father of four school-aged children. He has served as a youth mentor for twenty years and served as a substitute environmental science teacher in Ward 7. Additionally, Boston has 15 years of experience in vocational education credentials in arboriculture, construction and transportation which he hopes to use to make recommendations to the Mayor’s office, DCPS and OSSE. If elected, he also hopes to improve post college completion outcomes including plans to adjust graduation requirements to better prepare high school students for their next chapter. Boston plans to work with Ward 7 middle and high school students to establish student government associations (SGA) and parent-teacher associations (PTA) and hopes to create an “engaging” board of education that listens to students, communities and families about serious issues to “restore trust in public education.”
Toni Criner
Toni Criner is an educator and former interim Ombudsman
Eboni-Rose Thompson
Jacque Patterson Charles Boston
for public education. In her role, she worked to secure more than $500,000 in local funds for the DC Special Education Hub and piloted a Student-to-Student Con ict Resolution Program at H.D. Woodson High School in Ward 7. She is running to ensure that students across the ward receive equitable access to education and resources. If elected, Criner plans to focus on school safety including safe passage for students, post secondary plans for special education students and the modernization of Ward 7 schools in need of updates and repairs including funding an additional middle school. For more information, visit www. toniforward7sboe.com.
Ward 8
Current Ward 8 Board Member, Carlene Reid, has not led for reelection.
LaJoy Johnson-Law
LaJoy Johnson-Law is a project coordinator for Ad-
vocates for Justice and Education (AJE) who serves on the Ward 8 Education Council. Inspired by her daughter’s special education journey, Johnson-Law hopes to bring her thirteen years of special education, education policy, disability advocacy and digital equity experience to the school board. If elected, she hopes to bring families and teachers to the decision making table and create a more inclusive education system, especially for Black and Brown families. She also plans to work to expand the board’s policy and advocacy e orts on family engagement, safety, special education, mental health and accountability. For more information, www.lajoyforward8.com.
Sarah Payne is a reporter for Capital Community News. She can be reached at sarahp@hillrag.com. ◆
Toni Criner
LaJoy Johnson-Law
Additional supporters include Ward 6 Democrats, Ward 3 Democrats & DC Young Democrats.
What’s Happening in the ANC Races?
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
Voters will choose their representatives on the Advisory Neighborhood Commissions (ANC) in the Nov. 5, 2024 election. ANC Commissioners are elected, unpaid government officials who each represent about 2,000 voters in the Single Member District (SMD) in which they live. Voters elect the commissioner for their SMD to serve a two-year term. To find your ANC or SMD boundary, enter your address in the new 2023 Locate Your ANC/SMD tool at https://arcg.is/1PrKXG.
Let’s start with the competitive races.
Meet The Candidates
SMD 6B06
Burl Haigwood
Burl Haigwood centers his campaign around public safety, which he says impacts taxes, home value, personal health and employment. Crime affects not only individual or collective public safety, it lowers tourism and affects the economy, meaning government coffers are depleted.
Haigwood is also focused on alternative fuels which he believes both impact the environment as well as individual health. He is the author of Gasolinegate which examines the relationship between gasoline consumption and health.
“Crime Prevention affects everybody, and environmental protection impacts everybody,” he said, “and both of those things impact the economy. So, a rising tide of environmental and economic protection raises all boats,” Haigwood said.
“I’m a coalition builder,” Haigwood said. “My motto is we’re better together.”
Born and raised in Maryland, Haigwood has called the Hill home for the past 20 years, raising his two children here. He worked with outgoing ANC Commissioner Chander Jayaraman on crime and rats, authoring a public safety report. When Jayaraman decided he would not seek reelection, he asked Haigwood to run.
For more information, visit www. linkedin.com/in/burl-haigwood/
Anna Krebs
Anna Krebs believes in community collaboration, balanced development, transparent governance and public safety. Residents, she said, are the true experts on neighborhood needs. Balancing growth with the preservation of our neighborhood is crucial, she stated, as is safeguarding existing community members.
SMD 7D01
Charles Boston
According to the DC Board of Elections (DC BOE), Charles Boston withdrew from the race after the Sept. 12 deadline to remove his name from the ballot.
Public safety is an important concern. She intends to work closely with both the current and former chairs of the Public Safety Committee. She confronts the issue with an understanding that many criminal situations stem from systemic issues.
Anna Krebs was born and raised in the Single Member District she now seeks to represent. She attended DC Public Schools before graduating from the University of Delaware. Currently an events coordinator at the National Science Foundation, she takes immense pride in her Capitol Hill upbringing. “It’s not just where I’m from, it’s an integral part of who I am,” Krebs said.
For more information, email anna4dcgov@gmail.com
Joshua Taborn
As Commissioner for ANC 7D01, Taborn intends to engage residents in the civic process and educate them on the available city resources, he said. Commissioners don’t have a great idea of power or budget; rather, their role is as a connector, he said, putting problems together with the best people or agency to solve them.
Taborn is also ready to the loud voice in the room. “[Commissioners] are the person who echoes your voice and says it louder and says it the right way and says it in rooms with people who can actually make change, make decisions, improve lives,” he said.
Joshua Taborn was raised in a blended family, simultaneously in both Buffalo, NY and the District. When he turned 18, he moved to DC to attend Howard University. After college, he spent several years working for DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) as a lifeguard. Then he became a DC Firefighter, serving for seven years and buying his home in 7D01. While responding to 911 calls, he encountered folks who actually needed agencies and services other than DC FEMS. Taborn learned to connect his clients with the resources available in the District.
For more information, visit x.com/tonedeftaborn.
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Burl Haigwood, Candidate in ANC 6B06.
Joshua Taborn, Candidate for ANC 7D01. Photo: Leonard Poteat
Anna Krebs, Candidate in ANC 6B06.
SMD 8F02
Elissa De Souza
Elissa De Souza has come out strong as an anti-crime candidate on social media. Born and raised in Montgomery County, MD, she graduated from University of Maryland (UMD) with a degree in Family Science and Criminal Justice, moving to DC to start a career in law enforcement before moving on to public service.
De Sousa is running to represent ANC 6/8F02 because she believes in the importance of community engagement and effective representation. She is particularly interested in coordinating efforts related to crime and public safety initiatives.
“Recently, there has been a sense of rivalry in the community due to tensions around my posts pertaining to crime trends, particularly following the increased awareness of reported incidents in the Navy Yard area that are not always reported on the news,” she said. “While shedding light on these issues has been essential, it has also led some to perceive my efforts as “fear-mongering,” with others suggesting there are more constructive ways to address community safety. This situation to me only highlights the need for proactive communication and collaboration between residents and local leaders.” She sees her role as ensuring that all community voices are heard while addressing specific issues collaboratively with stakeholders.
Antonio Rossi
ANC 8F02, one of the fastestgrowing SMDs in the city, needs a commissioner who can put local government to work for the community, Antonio Rossi said. Rossi plans to work with the neighbors to prioritize and allocate limited resources in a way that benefits those who live here.
Rossi’s key priorities are safety and housing. Issues in the District such as the dysfunction at the Office of Unified Communications, the failures to prosecution violent crimes and lack of enforcement of traffic laws are systemic problems, he said.
“While ANCs don’t have direct significant influence over these matters, we can still make a meaningful impact,” Rossi said. For example, commissioners can advocate for physical changes to roads and for traffic enforcement. ANC 8F, he pointed out, has submitted a request for one-way traffic on Van and Half Streets with designated drop off and pick up spaces. Rossi plans to continue that momentum and also press for increased coordination during events at Nationals Park.
Markita Bryant
Markita Bryant is motivated by her desire to improve the neighborhood for her son. As more families make 8F02 their home, she said she wants to ensure responsible development. “I want to also ensure that we have a voice of families, because families are making this their home.”
Bryant lost her home in middle school. “Without housing or adequate, sensible housing solutions, your life is difficult,” she said. As a Commissioner, she plans push developers to include affordable housing and hold landlords to account when buildings are unsafe or not maintained.
Bryant has been laying the groundwork, attending the ANC meetings, community walks and liaising with Metropolitan Police Department. She was nominated to the District’s Parent Advisory Board, serving until 2021. There, she pressed for out-of-school-time programs and virtual learning. Bryant has followed multiple commissions for the past year, keeping tabs on development at St. Elizabeth’s as well traffic and parking concerns in Navy Yard.
Markita Bryant is a lifelong Ward 8 resident. She has worked for federal government for 13 years. In 2011, she moved to the Navy Yard, purchasing a condo with the aid of the city’s firsttime buyer program.
For more information, visit www.markitabryantdc.com.
Another concern is parking; she’ll advocate sfor olutions to ease congestion and improve accessibility as well as to enhance public transit access and for safer pedestrian pathways and bike lanes to promote alternative modes of transport. She also plans to address concerns around delivery truck management, through better planning and designated space. Finally, she says 8F02 needs improved communication about special events.
For more information, visit x.com/ElissaDeSouza/
Affordable housing, especially family-style, multi-bedroom units are needed in the neighborhood, Rossi said. He also wants to protect tenants, working with property managers and Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen (D) to push for transparent leases and better protections. Rossi has been endorsed by DC YIMBYs and GGWash.
By profession, Rossi is WMATA transportation planner. Raised in the Netherlands, he first moved to Los Angeles, which motivated him to study urban planning to make communities more accessible and livable.
Visit x.com/s_AntonioRossi for more information.
No Representation
Some ANC seats have no candidate declared with the DC Board of Elections (DC BOE), meaning there will be no name on your ballot. However, you can write in the name of a candidate for those seats. The candidate has seven days after 5 p.m. on the day of the election to affirm their candidacy.
ANC 6B has two vacancies, 6B04 and 6B05. Similarly, no-one is on the ballot to represent ANC 6C01. ANC 7D02, representing Parkside-Mayfair was vacant in 2022-24 and so far, no candidate has stepped forward to represent residents. Finally, nobody is running to represent ANC 6/8F05, the seat currently held by Clayton A. Rosenberg. A qualified candidate
Markita Bryant, Candidate for ANC 8F02.
Antonio Rossi, Candidate for ANC 8F02.
Elissa De Sousa, Candidate for ANC 8F02.
Ranked Choice Voting is on the Ballot Initiative 83 Explained
Not sure what Initiative 83 is or what it would mean?
Unclear on the pros and cons of the the RankedChoice Voting Initiative? It’s on the ballot during the Nov. 5 General Election and if it is approved by a majority of voters, it would automatically become law. Here’s your chance to learn more about it.
A “yes” vote for Initiative 83 would support the creation of a modified open primary allowing unaffiliated voters to participate in primary elections. It also establishes a rankedchoice voting (RCV) system for District electoral races with three or more candidates starting in 2026. Ranked choice voting is currently used for state races in Maine, Alaska and Nevada.
This is a particularly salient issue in races for the DC Council’s at-large seats, which typically have a long list of candidates. Incumbent at-large candidate Christina Henderson was first elected in 2020. That year, 23 candidates ran for the two open seats in the General Election; only one was the Democratic nominee).
Henderson, an Initiative 83 supporter, won with 15 percent of the vote; Democratic nominee Robert White won with just under 26 percent. That means that at least 74 percent of voters wanted someone else —hardly a case of “majority rules.”
“We want to hold politicians accountable, make them work harder for our votes,” said Lisa D.T. Rice, who proposed the initiative and is founder of Make All Votes Count DC (makeallvotescountdc). “The combination of
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
letting independents vote in our taxpayer funded primaries and implementing ranked choice voting in primaries and general elections combined will do that.”
In ranked-choice voting, voters will choose one candidate; or they can rank up to five candidates in order of preference, where #1 is their most preferred. If candidate X is selected as #1 by a majority of voters, they win. But if not, the candidate who got the least number of #1 votes is eliminated and the count moves to another round. The process is repeated with each subsequent round until a candidate wins more than 50 percent of the total votes.
Voters in DC’s at-large election elect two members simultaneously; so the first two candidates to exceed 50 percent of the total votes are elected.
Both political parties oppose the measure, arguing that it will dilute parties and violate their right to freedom of association. Advocates argue that similar arguments were used to segregate country clubs and golf clubs. They point out that voters can switch party affiliation up to 21 days before a primary election; the measure simply moves the deadline to the day of the primary.
Right now, they say, District taxpayers are paying for a primary process that they are excluded from. That’s particularly salient in DC where the winner of the Democratic primary very often goes on to win the General Election.
Opponents also argue that the bill doesn’t achieve its own electoral goals.
At a Sept. 23 panel on I-83, Deirdre Brown, Chair of Vote No on I-83 (www. voteno83.com), the political action
committee founded to oppose the measure, argued that since candidates and the votes for them are gradually eliminated via RCV, the winner might not have a majority of the total votes cast. But Rice says that while a candidate is eliminated in each round, all votes are counted in the running total.
Brown also argued out that the math behind the RCV system could confuse voters, pointing to data showing that Black, Hispanic and low-income voters are most likely to have their ballots discarded. If voters don’t understand the system that selects their representatives, she said, it could undermine trust in the electoral process.
Rice says this is a disingenuous argument. “I find it insulting,” she said, “and, you know, not nice to imply that because I am Black or because I live east of the river, that I don't know how to rank things.”
Proponents argue that the ranking of choices is something people do all the time in their daily lives. At that Sept. 23 panel, Philip Pannell of Make All Votes Count pointed out that parents rank school choices in the DC School Lottery; those applying for public housing rank where they want to live in the application.
DC Code indicates that if the voters approve I-83, it becomes law. But it is only the first hurdle: initiatives have been invalidated by Congress and less frequently by DC Council. The latter voted to repeal the first tipped wage ballot measure, Initiative 77, in 2018. Even if the measure stands as law, DC Council will still need to fund the bill. u
can still run as a write-in. See https://dcboe.org/candidates/anc-advisory-neighborhood-commissioners
Notable Changes
Many Commissioners are stepping down after long tenures with their ANCs. ANC 6B06 Chander Jayaraman departs after a dozen years representing his neighborhood, many as Chair of the ANC Alcoholic Beverage Cannabis (ABC) Committee. He will take more than a decade of institutional knowledge about process and language with him, all the more potent a loss as the ANC weighs in on applications for an increasing number of medical cannabis retail outlets. Robb Dooling, ANC commissioner and activist for the Deaf community, steps down after having served as representative for ANC 6C06 and ANC 6A06. In ANC 6C, Joel Kelty steps down from ANC 6C05 after six years, taking deep knowledge of zoning, historic regulation and construction planning process with him. Change is coming to ANC 6D, which had already been transformed in the 2022 redistricting. 6C01 incumbent Bob Link withdrew from the race after a petition challenge. Ron Collins will retire after six years representing ANC 6D02. However, stepping up to replace Collins is an ANC legend: Gottlieb Simon, former Executive Director of the Office of ANCs. He helped to establish the office and is au-
thor of many of the guidelines that govern operations.
Another legend returns to ANC 6C. Karen J. Wirt served as an ANC commissioner continuously from 1994-2022 with one two-year break, departing in the role of Chair of ANC 6C. After sitting out the last election, she returns to ANC 6C as representative for 6C02, running unopposed in the November election.
Siraaj Hasan (7D01) will step down as representative for Kenilworth-Parkside after eight years as commissioner. His departure could have a serious effect on the make-up of the commission, which also covers much of the Hill East on the east side of 15th Street and south of Benning Road, taking an experienced voice from the ANC.
Finally, Ebony Payne returns to represent 7D05 after an eventful but ultimately unsuccessful run to represent the ward on DC Council. In addition to the loss of Hasan in 7D01, she comes to an ANC changed by the absence of former ANC Chair Wendell Felder, who will step down in 2025. Felder is running in the November General Election as the Democratic nominee for Ward 7 Councilmember. Artillie Wright is running unopposed to represent 7D03 in his place.
Current ANC 6B Chair Edward Ryder had decided not to run again as his growing family expected to move out of his SMD in 2025. However, when nobody declared for the seat, and with the move going slower than expected, Ryder has declared his write-in candidacy. Those wishing to cast their vote for him should write “Edward Ryder” in the spot indicated for 6B08 on their ballot. u
The Ward 8 Council Race
Two on the Ballot; Four Run as Write-In Candidates
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
Amonth before the Nov. 5 General Election, the landscape of the Ward 8 race for DC Councilmember is constantly shifting. At the same time as Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White, Sr. (D) faces federal charges, he remains the frontrunner.
The Front Runner Is Indicted
White was indicted on a single charge of bribing a public o cial Sept 5, a few weeks after his arrest. The DC US Attorney’s O ce (USAO-DC) alleges that beginning in June, White agreed to accept $156,000 to use his position to pressure employees at the O ce of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement and Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services to extend contracts with companies providing violence interrupter services.
When DC Council reconvened three days later, on Sept. 17, they voted to hire an outside rm to assist an ad hoc committee to assess “the evidence available” and recommend whether White be expelled, reprimanded or censured. The committee has until Dec. 16 to le a report; expulsion would trigger a special election. That, ANC Commissioner Robbie Woodland (8C06) said, is when Democrats should consider another candidate, with more time for the electoral process to play out.
Republican & Write-In Opponents
In the General Election White will appear on the ballot to represent Ward 8 along with Republican nominee Nate Derenge.
White’s “sel shness may result in the ward being unrepresented for a period of time after he wins and gets removed from the council for his crimes and violation of the Council’s code of conduct,” Derenge said.
In addition to Derenge, ve candidates have registered as write-in candidates. Write in campaigns are notoriously di cult; experts say people are more likely to check a name on the ballot than write one in—and when they do, the name written must be absolutely accurate.
As of Sept. 23, DC BOE listed the write in candidates as electrician
Michael Brown, ANC Commissioner Olivia Henderson (www.oliviahenderson.org), Veteran and advocate Khadijah A. Long, June Sherman and Michael Reese.
Three write-in candidates appeared at a Sept. 8 meeting of the Congress Heights ACLU alongside Derenge. White was absent. Many acknowledged that they would have to learn about the legislative process, with Commissioner Henderson saying the ANC gave her some familiarity with District Government.
A common theme was the need for integrity and transparency in DC government, which candidates said needs to rebuild trust with constituents.
These issues were neither new nor a surprise, 63-year Ward 8 resident Khadijah Long said. “We need to clean house.” Long hoped that an investigation would be thorough, “and reveal the truth, don’t just shove this under the table,” she said.
“Government transparency is everything,” said Olivia Henderson. She said that people need to stop leaning on leaders and the community needs to do get together and do the work.
However, most admitted that they had little experience with the legislative process, with candidates like Brown saying they would learn on the job. Long said she would surround herself with people on her team that would trust her to create action. Henderson cited her experience working as a 14-year ANC 8D commissioner. She argued for restorative justice
programs and additional resources for non-pro ts doing anti-violence work.
“I’m hearing a lot of policy, policy,” Long said Sept. 11. “but what have you been doing before you got up here to run for Council?” Long said she had fostered children, taught in training programs and has welcomed homeless people in her home. She said the young people interacting with the justice system have been through trauma and the District’s agencies are not e ectively helping. The community needs to step up and help those children rather than being afraid of them, she said.
“What’s been going on now going on back then when I was coming up,” Michael Brown said, “same old thing.” An electrician by trade, Brown argued for opportunities for young people to become entrepreneurs. That, he said, would help kids understand that they are part of the city, channeling their energy in
Incumbent Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White, Sr., is still favored to regain his seat, despite an indictment on federal charges. Photo: E.O’Gorek/CCN
Nate Derenge is the Republican nominee for Ward 8 Councilmember. His is one of only two names that will appear on the ballot for the seat. Courtesy: the Campaign
more positive directions. Brown promised to get Ward 8 the funding it deserves.
An Invisible Incumbent Stands on His Record
During the run-up to the primaries, White stood by his record. The District needs to infuse capital in order to keep businesses in Ward 8, White argued, citing the struggle to keep the Giant open on Alabama Avenue SE and the 20 new businesses opening at Sycamore & Oak, 1110 Oak Dr. SE. In terms of wider public safety, White believes the District needs a comprehensive plan. “Every other month there’s something new,” he said, referencing Building Blocks, a program intended to provide intense wraparound services for 151 city blocks identi ed as high need. “We haven’t heard about it in four years,” he said.
At an April 12 forum, White took credit for securing increased funding for Ward 8 schools after deep cuts in the 2020 budget. White worked with Ward 5 Councilmember Kenyon McDu e (D) to get violence prevention programs in Ward 8, he said. He pointed to new recreation centers in Ward 8 including Ferebee-Hope, Anacostia, Congress Heights and Fort Greble.
”I’m not just talking the talk but I’m working each and every day to ful ll those promises here in our ward,” White said.
Post Indictment
Politics
White “could simply go on vacation between now and the primary and he’d be ne,” one
wag wrote on social media prior to the councilmember’s arrest. White has put that to the test in the campaign since his arrest, when he has been largely absent from panels and politicking.
At the Sept. 11 forum, Derenge came out swinging. He pointed to di erences between himself and White. Derenge lives in Ward 8, he noted, White was arrested outside a building he was staying at in the Ward 6 portion of Navy Yard. “A nal thing that makes me di erent — less important— I’m a professing Christian; I think he converted to Islam and I’m just kind of curious about that with him; [I have] multiple questions,” Derenge said.
Derenge called for a stop to subsidizing households that are making our neighborhoods more dangerous and “trashy.”
His intention is not to punish those with fewer resources, but “to make our social programs contingent on not having any criminal activity for a meaningful period of time.” His most audacious proposal is to sell the residents of DC public housing their units at a discount as a means of creating inter-generational wealth. He also wants to deny unhealthy food such as soda from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
Asked what he would like to tell Ward 8 voters, Derenge said, “[If I win], I’m ready to unite the ward, answer questions, and work with the strong political and non-political organizations in the area to bring about better outcomes.”
“I’m not a bribe-taker,” Derenge added. ◆
How to Vote in the 2024 General Elections
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
The 2024 General Election is Nov. 5. Unlike the June primaries, all eligible District voters can vote in this election, including for candidates selected by each political party as well as those running as independents.
On the Ballot
Voters will select DC Councilmembers for Ward 2, 4, 7 and 8, as well as the members of the State Board of Education (SBOE) for those wards. All residents will cast their ballots for the Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner (ANC) to represent their particular Single Member District (SMD).
Votes will also be cast in the citywide races: two at-large seats on DC Council, at-large member of the SBOE; Delegate to the House of Representatives, US Senator, US Representative, US President.
Also on the ballot is Initiative 83, The Ranked-Choice Voting Initiative. A “yes” vote for Initiative 83 would support the creation of a modi ed open primary allowing una liated voters to participate in
primary elections, and establishing a ranked-choice voting system for District elections starting in 2026. DC Code indicates that if approved by a majority of voters it would automatically become law. However, initiatives have been invalidated by Congress and less frequently by DC Council. The latter voted to repeal the rst tipped wage ballot measure, Initiative 77, in 2018.
Who Can Vote?
As of May 5, 2024, all residents over 18 who have lived in DC for 30 days can register to vote in local elections, provided they are not registered to vote or claim residence in another country. It does not matter how they entered the US. This year, noncitizen residents can vote for councilmembers (at-large and in ward of residence) but cannot vote in federal elections.
A registered voter will not need any particular identi cation to vote, except at same-day voter registration, when proof of residence will be required. That can include a DC-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license or REAL ID), a gov-
ernment check or paycheck, a bank statement, a current utility bill, a lease or any official document that includes the voter’s name and current District address.
Those who are incarcerated, regardless of the offense, can vote. If they are under court supervision or residing at a halfway house after release, they can vote. Residents who received a mailed absentee ballot, and were released from incarceration before it arrived, may vote at any voting center during early voting or at any voting center on Election Day. Upon release, they should contact the DC Board of Elections (DCBOE) to make any updates to their mailing address.
Where to Vote
DCBOE will begin mailing ballots to voters on Sept. 30. Voters can mail them back immediately and track them online (https://votedc.ballottrax.net/ voter/), but they must be postmarked by Nov. 5 and received by Nov. 15. Alternatively, ballot drop boxes are set to open Oct. 11 and will accept ballots until 8:00 p.m. on Nov. 5.
Early voting takes place in person between Oct. 28 and Nov. 3 from 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., at any of 25 vote centers. 75 centers will be open on election day from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. You may cast a vote as long as you are in line by 8 p.m.
Voters can go to any voting center. A full list of early and day-of-voting centers is at https://www.dcboe.org/voters/ find-out-where-to-vote/vote-center-locator-tool.
DCBOE usually posts results for mail and early in-person voting shortly after polling places close on Election Day, followed by the day-of results. But nothing is official until results are certified, tentatively scheduled for Dec. 2. Find out more about the 2024 General Election by visiting www.dcboe.org/ Elections/2024-Elections.
Mail Ballot Drop Box Locations:
WARD 6
Northeast Library
330 Seventh St. NE
Southwest Library
900 Wesley Pl. SW
Eastern Market (North Hall) 225 Seventh St. SE
Board of Elections (BOE) Headquarters 1015 Half St. SE
DC Public Schools (DCPS) Headquarters 1200 First St. NE
Payne Elementary School 1445 C St. SE
WARD 7
Capital View Library 5001 Central Ave. SE
Deanwood Library 1350 49th St. NE
Benning (Dorothy I. Height) Library
3935 Benning Rd. NE
Francis A. Gregory Library 3660 Alabama Ave. SE
Sixth District Police Station 5002 Hayes St. NE
Benning Ridge Service Center (DMV) 4525 Benning Rd. SE
Penn Branch Center (Backside Parking Lot) 3202 Pennsylvania Ave. SE
Ridge Road Community Center 830 Ridge Rd. SE
Rosedale Library 1701 Gales St. NE
WARD 8
Anacostia Library 1800 Good Hope Rd. SE
Parklands-Turner Library 1547 Alabama Ave. SE
Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Library 115 Atlantic St. SW
Seventh District Police Station 2455 Alabama Ave. SE
The ARC 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE
Department of Human Services
2100 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE
Hendley Elementary School 425 Chesapeake St. SE
Patterson Elementary School 4399 South Capitol Terrace SW
Fort Stanton Recreation Center 1812 Erie St. SE u
A ballot dropbox at Payne Elementary School. Photo: E.O’Gorek/CCN
Our Beautiful River Anacostia is Coming Back
And We Bid Farewell to One of its Best Photographers
by Bill Matuszeski
Carol Grodzins, a volunteer with the Capitol Hill Village, The Third Act and many other groups, has left us to join her family in Chicago, California and Southeast Asia. She does not plan to return to live in DC, although she will visit friends and her son and family here. So she has left copies of her photos of our River, the Anacostia, for us to re -
member her by. Many of the photos she has taken from a kayak. Kayaks and canoes can be rented from DC Sales on the water nearest Nationals Park and from Bladensburg Waterfront Park.
Yes, the Anacostia shows us that it is coming back, but it is only slowly making progress in some areas, and it is essential for citizens and the groups they have joined to pitch in to help, but to also make sure the responsible agencies up and down the River are doing their share of the job.
In the District
Three examples of good and bad from both Maryland and the District occur within walking distance at the boundary between them. One DC case is the failure to control what appear to be il-
legal discharges from a buried sewer line that comes to the surface and becomes Hickey Run when it crosses under New York Avenue and emerges in the National Arboretum. Efforts to clean it up once it enters the Arboretum, a project of the City, show no signs of success.
In contrast, a somewhat smaller stream, Springhouse Run, enters the Arboretum under New York Avenue to the east and joins a pond and stream which are filled with birds and all manner of animals who have built nests and homes since the new natural landscape was rehabilitated by the Arboretum staff. The only problem with this amazing display of cooperation between humans and all manner of animals is that the stream enters Hickey Run and its clear waters are lost before Hickey Run enters the Anacostia.
Maryland Issues
The Maryland case is quite different. The problem is the drainage of an industrial area along Route 50 from the Beltway to the DC line, where there was a rather poor cleanup of old industries later supplanted by new industries willing and able to lim-
Friday Summer Concerts on the boardwalk in the Capitol Riverfront.
Water lilies in the Kenilworth Aquatic Garden. Riverfront Sailing Class by the Earth Conservation Corps.
Great white heron.
it their discharges. As a result, no one is covering the cost of the cleanup of the old pollution sources and the state is avoiding getting someone to pay or to come up itself with the funds. In both this and the DC case the result is the unwillingness of the authorities to either nd the guilty parties or pay themselves. And the overall health of the Anacostia needs these state government agencies to nd a solution.
Progress
However, progress is being made virtually throughout the watershed and there are many beautiful areas as attested to by the photos seen here. And there are more areas to seek out, especially upstream, such as Sandy Spring in Montgomery, a Quaker community built to serve escaped slaves at the farthest point in the watershed that provided natural cover.
There is so much history along the Anacostia. Before settlers from Europe, Native American tribes lived along the tidal banks, trading
with each other. The arrival of the Europeans brought change. Farming upstream created substantial increases in runo to coastal streams. Remember, even as late as the War of 1812 ocean-going vessels were able to reach Bladensburg!
However, regardless of history, there is something wonderful about the peace and sense of community that can be found along Our River. I hope these photos inspire you to explore and nd your own favorite spots. And to contribute to the efforts to restore this beautiful waterway. Enjoy!
Bill Matuszeski is a member of the Mayor’s Leadership Council for a Cleaner Anacostia River, and the retired Director of the Chesapeake Bay Program. He also serves on the board of Friends of the National Arboretum and on Citizen Advisory Committees for the Chesapeake and the Anacostia. He can be reached at bmat@olg.com. ◆
As DC Chief of Police and throughout his life, Isaac Fulwood, Jr. was guided by three things: family, faith and friends. A Capitol Hill native, he was a member of the Police Boys and Girls Club—an important influence on the youngster who would join the DC police force in 1964 and become its chief in 1989. Read Chief Fulwood’s oral history at CapitolHillHistory.org. Help preserve Capitol Hill history by becoming a volunteer.
Bill Matuszeski, Mary Procter and Carol Grodzins on a river tour provided free by the River Keeper.
Photo
Commissioners Question Cannabis License
ANC 6A REPORT
by Sarah Payne
Gardeners to plant tulips bulbs at Sasha Bruce House at 1022 Maryland Ave. NE;
TAdvisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC 6A) met via Zoom on Sept. 5. Commissioners Mike Velasquez (6A02), Roberta Shapiro (6A03), Amber Gove (6A04, chair), Dave Wethington (6A05), Robb Dooling (6A06) and Steve Moilanen (6A07) were in attendance. Single Member District (SMD) 6A01 is currently vacant.
amount of illegal activity” and the more than 80 unoccupied storefronts along the corridor.
he commission’s Alcohol Beverage and Cannabis (ABC) committee has negotiated a settlement agreement over the summer with medical cannabis dispensary Luxury Soil at 771 H St. NE. The store applied for a medical dispensary license in May. Placards were posted in June and a protest deadline set for Aug. 26.
The commission discussed the license with the applicant at length at its July 2024 meeting. It voted to authorize its ABC Committee to negotiate a settlement agreement with the applicant and protest the license in its absence. The ABC Committee concluded this agreement in August during the commission’s recess.
Under the new cannabis regulations, only Advisory Neighborhood Commissions have standing to protest cannabis licenses. The Alcohol Beverage and Cannabis Board’s (ABCA Board) roll call hearing to consider the license occurred on Sept. 16. The commission did not testify due to its failure to protest.
Commissioner Shapiro objected to commission’s failure to le a protest. “We are the only voice of the community on these applications,” she said. The deadline to le a protest was July 1.
Of the 18 known cannabis retailers along H Street, four have cease and desist orders, two have warnings, two have been denied and three have been awarded conditional licenses that do not specify a location, Shapiro reported. She is concerned about the “vast
Commissioner Velasquez
echoed Shapiro’s concerns. There is loitering at the intersection of Eighth and H Streets NE and the “open air drug market” that persists in the neighborhood, he stated. Many prospective tenants were nervous to sign leases due to the proliferation of cannabis retailers along the street, a local property owner told him, Velasquez reported.
Shapiro introduced several draft motions requesting changes in ABCA statutes, regulations or procedures. These would “put some teeth” into enforcement by the DC Council and ABCA, she claimed. “Their (ABCA) enforcement is lacking,” she said. The commission took no vote on her motions.
Other Matters
The commission voted to:
• award a $1,000 grant to Guerilla
• award a $1,500 grant to Atlas Performing Arts Center to host a free lobby event in November;
• support the Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) application to construct a rooftop penthouse with a special exception from the height requirements at 1351 C St. NE;
• protest the class B retail license application of Aldi #15 at 801 H St. NE unless a settlement agreement is reached prior to the protest deadline.
ANC 6A will meet next on October 10 at 7 p.m. via Zoom. Get details on committee meetings and how to join online at anc6a.org.
Sarah Payne is a reporter for Capital Community News. She can be reached at sarahp@hillrag.com. ◆
Update on DC Jail Replacement
ANC 6B REPORT
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6B held a hybrid meeting via Zoom and in-person at 700 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. Attending were Frank Avery (6B01, treasurer); Jerry Sroufe (6B02); David Sobelsohn
(6B03, secretary); Frank D’Andrea (6B04); Kasie Durkit (Parliamentairan, 6B05); Chander Jayaraman (6B06); Vince Mareino (6B07, vice chair); Edward Ryder (6B08, chair); and Matt LaFortune (6B09).
Commissioners were updated on planned improvements at the DC Jail (1901 D St. SE). Department of Corrections (DOC) representative Michelle Wilson presented on the DC Correctional Treatment Facility Annex Project, appearing at the meeting with representatives from the Department of General Services (DGS) and others on a team planning to build a new jail and renovate existing buildings on the site.
Mayor Muriel Bowser has committed $463 million over six years from 2025-2030 just to plan the annex project.
DOC operates and maintains the 450,000 square foot Central Detention Facility (CDF) usually called DC Jail, which opened in 1976. The adjacent Correctional Treatment Facility (CTF) opened in 1992.
Costly repairs are needed at the aging and outdating CDF, Wilson said. The population is changing and requires more mental and behavioral health support as well as programming spaces. Since the pandemic, there has been an increase in those incarcerated due to serious felony offenses and a decrease in misdemeanors, the latter of whom would typically stay longer in the jail.
The project is intended to modernize the facility so it can better prepare the inmates for reentry. Wilson said the DOC plans to exceed current industry standards in the project.
DGS Executive Program Manager of the Public Safety and Justice Portfolio Agyei Hargrobe said
the new annex will be constructed in two phases. The first building will be built in the parking lot just north of CTF along an extended Massachusetts Avenue. It will house most of the administrative functions, such as intake and release, re-entry planning, medical services and treatment and support spaces as well as facility parking.
A portion of CTF will then be demolished and building two will be constructed in its place, containing housing and support spaces. The remaining CTF buildings will be renovated to include kitchens, a laundry, an outpatient clinic and a women’s center as part of a separate but simultaneous renovation project.
The project must undergo review from the Commission of Fine Arts (CFA), National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) and the DC Zoning Commission (ZC).
The team is currently moving into the design phase, which is estimated to last about two years. Construction on building 1 could begin in late 2027 and is expected to take about three years. After a transition and activation process 2030-31 construction of building 2 will begin with demolition of a portion of CDF.
There was no vote on the matter.
You can follow the project at https://newcorrectionalfacility. dc.gov/
1333 M Street
Tax Abatement
The ANC voted 6-3-0 to send a letter in support of tax abatement legislation for a mixed-use development project at 1333 M St. SE as long as certain conditions are met. Chair Ryder said the Navy Yard project from Felice Development Group (FDG) has stalled due to higher interest rates, supply chain issues and inflation.
AMBER GOVE, CHAIR, 6A04@ANC.DC.GOV
Serving the Near Northeast, North Lincoln Park, and H Street communities ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION 6A
ANC 6A generally meets the second Thursday of the month, virtually on Zoom. www.anc6a.org
ALL ARE WELCOME
**The next meeting is 2nd Thursday, October 10, 7:00 p.m.**
Economic Development & Zoning Committee meeting 2nd Wednesday, October 16, 7:00 p.m. Virtual Meeting via Zoom
Transportation & Public Space Committee meeting 3rd Monday, October 21, 7:00 p.m. Virtual Meeting via Zoom
Alcohol Beverage and Cannabis Licensing Committee meeting 4th Tuesday, October 22, 7:00 p.m. Virtual Meeting via Zoom
Community Outreach Committee meeting 4th Monday, October 28, 7:00 p.m. Virtual meeting via Zoom
We seek community-minded 6A residents interested in joining ANC 6A committees. Visit anc6a.org or email 6A06@anc.dc.gov for more information.
24 hours prior to the meeting. You will be able to enter the meeting no earlier than 15 minutes prior to its scheduled start time.
Neighborhood Commission 7D “Uniting Communities East and West”
Representing the Capitol Hill/Hill East, Eastland Gardens, Kenilworth, Kingman Park, Mayfair, Parkside, River Terrace and Rosedale neighborhoods and the RFK Stadium Complex.
Join us for our Next Virtual Public Meeting Tuesday, October 8, 2024 - 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
How to participate:
By computer: https://dc-gov.zoom.us/j/9162864
7160?pwd=NVdldTZiRitFODdSUVJZQVBGdHk5UT09
Passcode: anc7d Or by phone: 1-301-715-8592
Webinar ID: 91628647160 Passcode: 776540
Wendell Felder Parkside – 7D03 7d03@anc.dc.gov
Chairperson
Brian Alcorn Capitol Hill/Hill East – 7D08 7d08@anc.dc.gov
Vice Chair
Brett Astmann Rosedale – 7D07 7d07@anc.dc.gov
Treasurer Ashley Schapitl Hill East – 7D09 7d09@anc.dc.gov
Secretary
Siraaj Hasan Eastland Gardens/ 7d01@anc.dc.gov Kenilworth – 7D01
Mike Davis River Terrace – 7D04 7d04@anc.dc.gov
Ebony Payne Kingman Park – 7D05 7d05@anc.dc.gov
Marc Friend Rosedale – 7D06 7d06@anc.dc.gov
Brianne Hill East – 7D10 7d10@anc.dc.gov
Eby-Stockert
Vacancy in Single Member District 7D02
LIVE IN THE MAYFAIR COMMUNITY? We are looking for a Commissioner to serve for
The project went through the Planned Unit Development (PUD) process in 2021. The PUD included $250,000 benefits to the Department of Aging and Community Living (DACL), mostly earmarked to help Capitol Hill Village (CHV) find space for adult day services, and the balance towards DPR programming for seniors.
The legislation is intended to move the project forward, which would incentivize growth in the area, currently underutilized. It is expected to provide 900 residential units and 45,000 square feet of plazas and improvements to bicycle trails in the area.
“Without that project we don’t get any of those things,” Ryder said.
The proposed abatement would forgive taxes in excess of $150,000 annually for a 15-year period beginning in 2028. The land is assessed at $13 million without development, Jayaraman noted, meaning the property taxes already exceed the cap.
Many commissioners supported the move, noting that construction costs and interests rates are making some development prohibitive. However, Jayaraman argued that the developer has already asked for and received exceptions for significant density and height in exchange for a $250,000 consideration. “What more are they offering in order for the compensation we are handing them?” he asked, pointing out there is no estimate of the loss to government revenue.
To meet the conditions, developers would have to designate 12 percent of residential space as affordable at 60 percent Area Mean Income (AMI) or less and begin work on amenities for the neighborhood. Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen (D) introduced the bill July 8; it was referred to the DC Council Committee on Business and Economic Development on Sept. 17, the first day of fall session.
In Other Business:
The ANC voted: 8-1-0 to support an application from Bud Love (1221 Pennsylvania Ave. SE) for a medical cannabis retailer license and a safe-use treatment facility. The latter is a space connected to the establishment where qualifying patients can use cannabis. Both retail and safe use space will close at 9 p.m. The applicant also requested a delivery endorsement. In the signed Settlement Agreement (SA) the applicant has agreed that they will not apply for a summer garden and included language around ensuring patrons and delivery do not block the bus lanes.
ANC 6B generally meets the second Tuesday of each month except August. The next regular meeting of the full ANC is at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8. See calendar and get information on how to join at anc6b.org u
Controversial Garage Addition
ANC 6C REPORT
by Sarah Payne
Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6C met on Sept. 11 via WebEx. Commissioners Christy Kwan (6C01), Leslie Merkle (6C02, secretary), Jay Adelstein (6C03), Mark Eckenwiler (6C04, chair), Joel Kelty (6C05, treasurer), Patricia Eguino (6C06) and Commissioner Tony Goodman (6C07, vice chair) were in attendance.
The owner of 627 A St. NE is planning to convert a single floor garage into a dwelling with a second story addition. The plan requires the Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) to grant special exceptions to the zoning requirements for lot occupancy, building area, maximal principle dwelling unit and accessary building use.
The proposed height of the addition raised neighbor’s concerns about its impact on the light, air, privacy and greenery. They also expressed frustration about a lack of due notice regarding the home owner’s application for the project.
Nine community members spoke in opposition. Neighbor Jessica Smith, who shares a fence with the applicant, questioned the necessity of “busting through four big regulations aimed at protecting residents and the broader community” for the renovations. “It’s a huge loss of light, it’s a loss of airflow, it’s a loss of privacy, it’s a loss of green space next to me,” she said.
The applicant is “completely misrepresenting” project plans, said neighbor Allison. She echoed Smith’s concerns about privacy. “There is no precedent for such a large expansion, the shade impact, the impact on greenery and the cooling system that is local to that area,” she stated.
The applicant disagreed. “I think there’s a lot more drama than is actually relevant here,” she said. She plans to use the structure for housing a family member. “It’s going to use housing for what housing is meant to be, which is places where people can live,” she said.
The property owner is “asking too much,” stated Commissioner Adelstein. “It does have a deleterious effect on the neighbors,” he said, noting that the ANC’s communication with the zoning board should “reflect the views and attitudes of the neighbors.”
Chair Eckenwiler disagreed. The impact on adjacent properties is “minor” and that requesting special exception is not a vi-
Photo: Plan show proposed changes to DC Jail site. Zoom Screenshot: Sept. 9 meeting ANC 6B. Image: DOC
olation of the regulations, he said. “I do not think those rise to the level of substantial adverse impacts that would counsel against granting this application.”
The ANC would not be the final decision maker on this, Treasurer Kelty pointed out. “Anybody who feels really strongly about it to go to the BZA and make their case,” he said.
Commissioners voted to support the application, noting both the “credible concerns” of neighbors about the late notice submission by the applicant.
Other Matters
The commission voted to:
• oppose the Historic Preservation Review Board (HPA) application of 622 Mass. Ave. NE. to construct a two story carriage house, citing concerns about the substantive nature of what was depicted and lack of detail in the drawings, unless the applicant submits a timely, voluntary request to adjourn their upcoming hearing;
• send a letter to the Department of Buildings (DOB) and the Historic Preservation Office (HPO) encouraging the agencies to work together to amend the regulations and close loopholes regarding the installation of storm windows.
ANC 6C will meet next on October 9 at 7 p.m. via WebEx. Visit anc6c.org to learn more about the commission and register to attend the meeting.
Sarah Payne is a reporter for Capital Community News. She can be reached at sarahp@hillrag.com. u
Greenleaf Redevelopment
ANC 6D REPORT
by Andrew Lightman
Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6D met on Sept. 9 via Zoom. Commissioners Bob Link (6DO1, vice chair), Ronald Collins (6D02, treasurer), Gail Fast (6D03), Andrea Pawley (6D04), Chearie Phelps-El (6D05), Bruce
Levine (6D06, secretary), Fredrica (Rikki) Kramer (6D07, chair) and Rhonda Hamilton (6D08) were in attendance.
DC Housing Authority (DCHA) Deputy Executive Director Nicole Wickliffe, DCHA Director of Capital Programs
Sheila Miller and Consultant David Cortiella briefed the commission on the agency’s plans both to maintain, renovate and ultimately redevelop Greenleaf Gardens Public Housing Complex. They responded to a written questionnaire sent by the commission.
Presently, 131 Greenleaf apartments at the “senior” building are occupied and 89 are vacant, they stated. Of these, 78 are headed by seniors and another 29 by disabled individuals, they stated.
When families are transferred out of Greenleaf Senior or leave using housing choice vouchers, units remain vacant until they are rehabilitated, said Wickliffe
DHCA has renovated 20 units with another 20 to be delivered by year’s end, they said. Standard renovations include replacing flooring and lighting with additional repairs dependent on the state of the unit.
The US Department of Housing and Development (HUD) removed the senior designation from Greenleaf Senior after DCHA failed its audit, the DCHA leaders stated. However, a senior housing preference is still permitted under Section 8. DCHA has filed for this designation.
“There will be a building that has 55 plus as a preference,” Cortiella, speaking of the redevelopment.
Renovations at Greenleaf Midrise continue, DCHA leaders stated. 53 units have been completed. Another 23 are due to be finished by year end. The building is getting a new air conditioning and heating system, they said.
Greenleaf Annex and Extensions are not undergoing renovation, because they are slated for Build First, DCHA leaders stated. The 2022 MDA did not envision Build First, pointed out Cortiella. Now, DCHA, committed to that principle, is developing a sequencing and revitalization plan, which will be ready by the end of the year. The agency will then proceed to file a zoning application for a Planned Unit Development, he said
“Greenleaf is the top priority for us right now,” said Cortiella.
Miller was unsure about whether the Master De-
velopment Agreement (MDA) can be shared with the commission. It is still under negotiation, stated Cortiella, suggesting the commission file a FOIA. The Penrose Group and EYA remain DCHA’s development partners for Greenleaf, Miller said.
“It’s not healthy in there, period,” stated Commissioner Phelps-El in response to DCHA testimony, complaining about hallways and carpets. Only one resident has moved into a renovated apartment, she said, complaining that renovated apartments have gone to new residents.
Hamilton commended DCHA’s new Director Pettigrew for his management of the troubled agency. He has made lots of improvements, she said, while calling for increased community engagement.
Pettigrew is committed to being a good partner with both residents and community members, stated Miller, promising full participation, full visioning and full community input.
I Street Protected Bike Lanes
DDOT Bike Program Specialist Will Handsfield and Community Engagement Manager Tyler Williams briefed the commission on the status of the I Street Protected Bike Lane (I Street PBL). The three utility projects that have blocked the completion of the project have finished. DDOT now plans on completing the I Street PBL between Fourth St SW to First St. SE. Construction will take six weeks, he said.
“DDOT is very close to having everything in the MoveDC Plan implemented in Southeast and Southwest,” stated Handsfield.
As part of the I Street PBL, the agency plans to close a curb cut adjacent Randall Recreation Center, Handsfield said. In general, the agency will retain parking on the northsides of I Street SW as well as on both sides of I St. SE, he said. Construction will take four weeks, once I Street SW between Fourth Street and Delaware is repaved by PEPCO.
What can be done to make the intersection at I and Seventh Street SW safe? asked Vice Chair Link, pointing out how dangerous it is currently. He suggested making changes to the signal timing. That is part of larger multi-modal redesign now in the works for the entire length of Seventh Street, Handsfield replied. This intersection requires a tri-signal, stated Commissioner Fast.
“Right now, I am so unbelievably happy that we have not had an accident at this intersection,” Fast said. Pointing out that the I Street PBL conflicts with
a future construction entrance, “What we failed to do on I Street is coordinate with coming development,” she said.
Fast pointed out two blind spots on 600 block of I Street. Commissioner Pawley describe two more tween Fourth and Sixth Streets SW. Treasurer Collins described a similar situation near the intersection of Fourth and G Streets SW.
“Who can come out and observe this with me?” asked Pawley. “I need some immediate action.” Hands eld referred her request to his colleague Williams.
Commissioners Hamilton, Fast and Collins also complained about the lack of access to Westminster Church’s handicapped entrance, which is blocked by the I Street PBL. Seniors and disabled persons cannot access the church, Hamilton stated. Hands eld suggested they funnel their concerns through Williams.
Other Matters
DDOT has completed a design for the rehabilitation for the I-395 Plan HOV lanes on the Rochambeau Memorial Bridge which carries 75,000 vehicles daily, representatives stated. Construction will begin late fall 2024 and be completed in late spring 2026. The agency plans to repair the concrete structure under bridge and put in a new deck. Two open lanes will be maintained throughout the project with speed reduced to 35 miles an hour. There will be no daytime lane closures. Night construction is planned.
Developers of 1250 Maryland Avenue SE requested the commission’s support for a public space application which is the rst step in their planned o ce to residen-
WIDE SHOE OUTLET
tial conversion project. The entire building will be gutted and three levels added to provide 450 large apartments, they said. The design includes ground floor retail. Art Tech House will remain. The developers have agreed to providing one, two and one three-bedroom units or contributing $2 million to assist residents buy homes within the commission. The commission voted to support the application with Commissioner Phelps-El abstaining and Treasurer Collins in opposition.
Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Captain Paul Hrebenak briefed the commission on public safety. Violent crime is down 50 percent compared to last year, he stated. There was only one robbery in the last thirty days. MPD is running undercover operations designed to stop retail theft, he said.
The commission voted to:
• write to the mayor expressing concerns about the recent Broccoli City Festival at Audi Field;
• support Fogo de Chao’s application for a liquor license;
• support the Susan G. Komen walk 9/18, the Children’s National 5k and the Army 10-Miler;
• fund the commission until the passage of the FY 25 budget.
ANC 6D meets at 7 p.m. on the second Monday of every month. The next meeting is Oct. 15. For more information, visit www.anc6d.org. u
Commissioners Oppose DDOT’s Traffic Safety Plan ANC 7D REPORT
by Sarah Payne
Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 7D met Sept. 10 via Zoom. Commissioners Siraaj Hasan (7D01), Wendell Felder (7D03, chair), Commissioner Ebony Payne (7D05), Marc Friend (7D06), Brett Astmann (7D07, treasurer), Brian Alcorn (7D08, vice chair), Ashley Schapitl (7D09), secretary) and Brianne EbyStockert (7D10) were in attendance. Commissioner Commissioner Mike Davis (7D04) was absent. Single Member District 7D02 remains vacant.
There have been multiple crashes at the intersection of East Capitol and 16th Streets NE. It is controlled by stop signs from the north and the south, but allows free flow of traffic east and west. Most intersections of East Capitol Street are controlled by a four way stop or a traffic light.
This intersection, however, is a dangerous exception said Vice Chair Alcorn. “Safety improvements at this intersection are
well overdue,” he noted. In one instance, a car narrowly missed a group of students and crashed through the wall of his home, stated neighbor Paul.
In response, the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) has proposed a parking adjustment involving the removal of four spaces to improve sight lines, the addition of pedestrian islands and green skip paints to alert drivers of crossing cyclists.
While commissioners and neighbors are appreciative of DDOT’s efforts to make the intersection safer, the proposal to remove parking to improve sight lines along the road is “not the proper intervention,” said Alcorn.
The commission voted to oppose DDOT’s project plans and recommended that the agency work to install an all-way stop or traffic signal at the intersection without parking reduction.
Other Matters
Representatives from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) briefed commissioners and the community on the 40 percent decrease in violent crime.
The commission voted to:
• request that the Department of Public Works (DPW) purchase a smaller truck to traverse the narrow alleys in the neighborhood and note several key areas where trash pickups have been repeatedly missed;
• request that the Department of General Services (DGS) promptly repair the malfunctioning alarm, elevator, unsafe playground surface and a leaky hallway at the Rosedale Recreation Center;
• send a letter to DDOT in opposition to the “No Turn on Red” proposal at Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave and Kenilworth Ave NE citing concerns about the neighborhood becoming “inundated” with traffic.
ANC 7D will meet next on October 8 at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. You can learn more about the commission and register to attend at 7d0761.wixsite.com/anc7d-1.
There Is No Place for Corruption
ANC 8F REPORT by
Andrew Lightman
Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 8F met on Sept. 17. Commissioners Nic Wilson (8F01, treasurer), Rick Murphree (8F02, vice chair), Brian Strege (8F03, secretary) and Edward Daniels (8F04, chair were in attendance. Clayton Rosenberg (8F05) was absence.
Secretary Strege reported that the commission resolved at its August Special Meeting to ask the DC Board of Elections (BOE) to vacate Commissioner Clayton Rosenberg’s seat due to his recent criminal conviction. BOE’s action was delayed until it received the official minutes of the special meeting on Sept. 17.
“There is no place for corruption,” stated Chair Daniels.
Other Matters
The DC Dept. of Transportation (DDOT) has issued a Notification of Intent (NOI) expand ballpark parking restrictions in the Navy Yard. The restrictions make it difficult for residents and their visitors to park, commissioners stated. The matter will be examined at the commission’s October meeting.
An officer from the Metropolitan Police Department briefed the commission on public safety. Crime is down significantly, he stated.
ANC 8F’ s next meeting is scheduled for Oct. 15 at DDOT headquarters, 250 M St. SE, at 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.anc8f.org. u
Sarah Payne is a reporter for Capital Community News. She can be reached at sarahp@hillrag.com. u
Bulletin Board
Village Voices: How the US Immigration System Works –or Doesn’t
On Monday, Oct. 7 at 7 p.m., via Zoom, Julia Follick will present an overview of the basics of US immigration law, including who may be admitted and the options for entering the United States temporarily or permanently. The immigration system is frequently misrepresented and misunderstood, and this presentation provides essential information, of particular importance at this time of intense political debate. Julia Follick is an immigration lawyer who has taught immigration law at George Mason University and has experience in both private and Federal legal practice. Village Voices presentations are free and open to the public, sponsored by Capitol Hill Village. Register and join the on-line discussion at capitolhill.helpfulvillage.com/events/11910.
House Expo Set for Saturday, Oct. 26
The Capitol Hill Restoration Society holds their annual free House Expo in the North Hall of Eastern Market on Saturday, Oct. 26, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The expo will feature a wide variety of home service exhibitors and representatives of city agencies. If you are planning a home enhancement project, this is the perfect opportunity for you to find qualified experts to do the work. There will also be experts in real estate, finance, insurance and property management and free insider tours of Eastern Market. Details at chrs.org/house-expo-2024
Boathouse Row: DC’s History Seen from the Anacostia
Washington’s historic Anacostia boathouses, sometimes called Boathouse Row, include four clubs dedicated to motorized recreational boating—Eastern Power Boat Club (1905), Washington Yacht Club (1910), Seafarers Yacht Club (1945), and the former District Yacht Club (1950)—all located on the west bank of the Anacostia along M and Water streets SE. The clubs share a history that includes a love of the Anacostia River, but also stories of forced moves around its banks, damaging weather events, exclusionary policies in both the private and government sectors and a strong sense of environmental responsibility. The stories of these clubs will be the topic of the Oct. 7, 7 p.m., lecture at Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, given by Anne Brockett for the Overbeck Capitol Hill History Project. Admission is free but a reservation is required due to limited capacity. hillcenterdc.org/calendar.
DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in the District.
DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in the District.
DC Open Doors
DC Open Doors
DC Open Doors
DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership inthe city. is programo ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust
DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership i city. is programo ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust
DC Open Doors
homebuyer or a D.C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia
homebuyer or a D.C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia
DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership inthe city. is programo ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust homebuyer or a D.C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia
HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) rst-time home buyer program.
DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership in the city. This program offers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on first trust mortgages.You are not required to be a first-time homebuyer or a D.C. resident to qualify for DCOD. You must, however, be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia.
HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) rst-time home buyer program.
HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) rst-time home buyer program.
years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to
DC4ME
years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to
DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees.
DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is o ered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.
years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to
DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is o ered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.
COVID-19
DC4ME is offered to current fulltime District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower’s employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.
COVID-19
DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is o ered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.
DC MAP COVID-19 provides nancial assistance to those a ected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quali ed borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage for up to six months.
COVID-19
DC MAP COVID-19 provides nancial assistance to those a ected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quali ed borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage for up to six months.
www.DCHFA.org
DC MAP COVID-19 provides nancial assistance to those a ected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quali ed borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage for up to six months.
how to apply to any of DCHFA’s homeownership programs.
Pickleball for Parkinson’s at Rosedale Rec Center
Every Friday, 11 a.m. to noon, join Friends with Parkinson’s (or other physical challenges) to play pickleball in a slower, less competitive environment at Rosedale Rec Center, 1701 Gales St. NE. It’s great exercise and lots of fun. Care partners are welcome. Coaching and equipment are provided. Call 202-669-1290 or 202-547-2647 with questions.
Remaining Southwest Nights at Arena Stage
Arena Stage patrons who live or work in Southwest DC can buy discounted tickets for specially designated Southwest Night performances of each production. Tickets are $36 for musicals and $26 for non-musicals, plus fees. Proof of Southwest DC residency or employment for each member of the party must be presented at the time of ticket pick-up. Tickets are based on availability. Here are the dates through the end of the year: The Other Americans; Oct. 24, 8 p.m. and Oct. 27, 2 p.m.; DATA; Nov. 1, 7 p.m. and Nov. 10, 2 p.m.; Death on the Nile, Nov. 30, 2 p.m. and Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m. arenastage.org.
CAPITOL ST.s
AARP October Meeting
On Wednesday, Oct. 16, noon to 2 p.m., all are welcome to join SW AARP in their conversation with Legal Counsel for the Elderly-Attorney Robyn Griffin (Public Benefits and Social Security Disability;) and Legal Counsel for the ElderlyAttorney Sean Smiley (Wills and Powers of Attorney) — the importance and function of these documents. The meeting is open to DC seniors, their families, friends and neighbors. You will hear about available resources and services. $5 for lunch. The meeting is at the River Park Mutual Homes’ Charles Goodman Common Room, 1311 Delaware Ave. SW. For further information, contact Betty Jean Tolbert Jones, bettyjeantolbertjones@yahoo. com or 202-554-0901.
AARP Two-Day Pickleball Event
On Saturday, Oct. 19 and Sunday, Oct. 20, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., AARP DC and the DC Pickleball Team will host a two-day pickleball clinic. Attendees will learn how to dink, drive and rally, with tips for beginners. No equipment needed. At the same time, District adults can take charge of their health with the help of free health screenings from Whitman-Walker Health and Howard University. The event is at the Washington Tennis & Education Foundation, 200 Stoddert Pl. SE, as they aim to maximize reach to Ward 7 and 8 residents. Light snacks and water will be provided. Participants will also receive giveaways and have a chance to win raffles on both days. aarp.org.
Randall Rec Center and Pool Community Meeting
On Tuesday, Oct. 8, 6:30 to 8 p.m., at the Randall Recreation Center, 920 So. Capitol St. SW, join the DC Department of Parks and Recreation and the Department of General Services for a community meeting about the upcoming renovations planned for the Randall Recreation Cen-
ter and Pool. The project team will present initial concept designs for the renovation and gather feedback. dpr.dc.gov.
UnShushed! Film Festival at MLK Library
The UnShushed! Film Festival is a festival for fantasy, horror, Southern Gothic and Afrofuturism films by Black women and emerging filmmakers creating genre films with black women protagonists, like Dead Head by Gina Powers, starring T’Keyah Crystal Keymáh. It takes place on Sunday, Oct. 13, 1 to 5 p.m., at the MLK Library, 901 G St. NW. Attendees can expect a conversation and Q&A with filmmakers and actors, a discussion about accessibility and films, short films and a feature film. filmfreeway.com/UnShushedFilmFestival-1.
Reframing Care: Mindfulness + Art at the Phillips Collection
Creative Aging is the centerpiece of The Phillips Collection’s art and wellness programs, reflecting founder Duncan Phillips’s belief in the profound and positive impact that art can have on our well-being. Partnering with local organizations, Creative Aging programs bring joy-giving and life-enhancing experiences through the arts to older adults living with memory loss. Reframing Care: Mindfulness + Art is at the Phillips Collection, Sant Building, Lower Level 2 Galleries, 1600 21st St. NW, from Oct. 30 to Jan. 29. phillipscollection.org.
Fall Jazz Series at Canal Park
On Wednesday nights through Oct. 23, at 6:30 p.m., enjoy the fall season of Jazz in Canal Park, featuring local jazz performances at the middle block of Canal Park, 200 M St. SW. Here’s the remaining lineup: Oct. 9, Trumpet Performance; Oct. 16, Great Falls Jazz Group; and Oct. 23, DC’s Different Drummers Jazz Band. Residents
Ann Goodwin and Rosemary Freeman, organizers of the Parkinson’s Pickleball group.
and visitors are encouraged to pack a picnic or pick up dinner from one of the neighborhood’s restaurants to sit back and enjoy an hour of music. capitolriverfront.org.
Audi Field to Host FIFA Club World Cup 2025
Audi Field has been named by FIFA as one of the 12 stadiums in the United States that will stage matches at the new FIFA Club World Cup 2025 when the 32 best clubs in the world play for the only official title of FIFA Club World Champions. The tournament kicks off on Sunday, June 15, with all roads leading to the MetLife Stadium
in New York New Jersey on Sunday, July 13, where the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 will be played, just over a year before the venue stages the FIFA World Cup 26 final. Fans can visit FIFA.com/tickets to register for FIFA Club World Cup 2025 ticket and hospitality information.
Neighbors Supporting Neighbors Community Event
On Sunday, Oct. 20, 4 to 5:30 p.m., there is an Everyone Home DC community gathering at Capitol Hill Presbyterian Church. 201 Fourth St. SE. Learn the history and causes of homelessness in DC, how to support unhoused neighbors and how to collectively move our community toward one where everyone can obtain and remain in a safe, affordable and comfortable home. everyonehomedc.org.
CHRS October Walking Tours
The Capitol Hill Restoration Society (CHRS) will hold four Walking Tours during the Oct. 19 to 20 weekend. SE Alleys: Saturday, Oct. 19 at 10:30 a.m. Take a trip back in time to explore the workaday world of past residential and industrial uses and some of our most diverse populations. One-block Streets in NE: Saturday, Oct. 19, at 1 p.m. On this tour you will learn who created them and why, the communities who lived here and the changing architectural styles popular in the 1870’s, 1890’s, 1900’s and 1910’s. NE Alleys: Sunday, Oct. 20, at 10:30 a.m. You’ll learn about the lifestyles, occupations and shenanigans of the inhabitants; early industrial uses; and effort both to eliminate and to preserve alley dwellings. The Civil War and Before: Sunday, Oct. 20, at 1 p.m. This tour highlights some of the neighborhood’s oldest buildings and their history. The tour begins at the Navy Yard. All tours will be led by CHRS volunteers. Tours are $15 at eventbrite.com.
STC Props and Costume Sale
The Shakespeare Theatre Company is having a Props and Costume Sale on Sunday, Oct. 20, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at their Rehearsal Halls, 516 Eighth St. SE. shakespearetheatre.org.
Disability Pride Art Lab at MLK Library
On Saturday, Oct. 12, 2 to 4 p.m., join MLK Library staff for a creative afternoon celebrating the theme of disabled joy through art. Create a piece through painting, drawing, collage, writing, or otherwise and submit it for consideration for inclusion in a public art ex-
Brief Encounters Book Club at SW Library
Are there authors whose work you want to become more familiar with? If so, join the Southwest Library’s Brief Encounters book club, where you read three books by the same author over the course of a season. From Oct. to Dec., read Joan Didion’s The Year of Magical Thinking, The White Album and Play It As It Lays. This group meets on the last Monday of every month at 6:30 p m. at SW Library, 900 Wesley Pl. SW. dclibrary.org.
hibit in Fall 2025. All supplies will be provided. Registration is recommended. For reasonable accommodations to participate in this program, contact DCPLaccess@dc.gov or 202-727-2142.
Voter Registration at DC Public Libraries
District residents who apply for a new library card and existing customers who have to change their address or renew their library card privilege will be asked if they would like to register to vote and will be offered assistance should they choose yes. District residents can visit any DC Public Library location and request to register to vote without applying for a new library card or being an existing customer. Ballot Drop Boxes will be available at some library locations across DC. You may drop your voted mail-in-ballot in any ballot drop box at any time beginning Friday, Oct. 11 until 8 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 5. Ballot Drop Boxes in Ward Six are at NE Library and SW Library. dclibrary.org/using-the-library/voter-registration.
Fusion Festival 2024
On Saturday, Oct. 19, 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Anacostia Arts Center, 1231 Marion Barry Ave. SE, experience a day of carefully curated panels, workshops, and happy hours with a focus on skill sharing and cultural cohesion. This inaugural Fusion Festival will celebrate the DMV’s cutting-edge ideas, showcase its most innovative leaders, and challenge the status quo in our own backyard. Join them for a day filled with enriching sessions across multiple tracks, each designed to spark innovation, inspire creativity, and foster meaningful connections. $60, plus fees, admission. anacostiaartscenter.com/events.
DC Holiday Market to Open at Dupont Circle
This year’s holiday market returns with a new name and a new location. Diverse Markets Management in partnership with the Dupont Circle BID will host the holiday market--changing its name from “Downtown” to “DC Holiday Market”--and in a new location. Located in the 1500 block of 19th Street NW, the DC Holiday Market opens Friday, Nov. 22 and runs through Sunday, Dec. 15. Located one block from Dupont Circle metro, the DC Holiday Market will be open every day, except Thanksgiving, from noon until 8 p.m. on weekdays, and from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. dcholidaymarket.net.
American Vignettes: Symbols, Society and Satire
The Rubell Museum DC, 65 I St. SW, has opened a new exhibition of contemporary art as part of a museum-wide reinstallation. American Vignettes: Symbols, Society, and Satire showcases nearly 100 artworks spanning painting, photography, sculpture, installation and mixed media by over 40 emerging and established artists, all drawn from the Rubell’s ever-growing collection of more than 7,700 works of contemporary art. American Vignettes is on view through Fall 2025. Free admission for DC residents with ID. Open Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. rubellmuseum.org.
Fierce Flora: Tales of Survival and Demise at the Botanic Garden
A new exhibit at the United States Botanic Garden will showcase the ferocious side of the bright and beautiful plant world. “Fierce Flora: Tales of Survival and Demise” opens to the public Sept. 27, in the Conservatory East Gallery. Most plants are relatively harmless but beware of some of the un ique survival features plants have evolved to defend themselves against herbivores, infection, and plant competitors. Learn how plants have engaged in a long evolutionary struggle with their animal and plant competitors, and how some people can experience negative consequences from touching, consuming, or, in rare cases, sitting beneath them. The USBG is free and open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Dec. 25. Programs connected to the exhibit’s themes will be offered throughout its run. Find upcoming programs and plan your visit at usbg.gov.
2024 Slice of Life Pie Selling Sign-ups Open
Food & Friends is the only community-based program that prepares and home delivers nutritious meals free of charge, to individuals living with a serious or chronic illness throughout the Washington, DC region. To sign up to be a Slice of Life Pie seller, click on “Seller HQ” and “Login” at the top of page at sliceoflifedc.org/about-slice-of-life. You can also create or join a team. Recruit your friends, colleagues and family to sign up as sellers as well. Pie sales to the public opened on Oct. 1. sliceoflifedc.org.
DC Clean Energy Summit
The DCPSC Clean Energy Summit educates and promotes collaboration among utility customers, utility companies, policymakers, and other groups. It is a unique opportunity to demonstrate the benefits of
stakeholders working together toward a common objective. There will be multiple panels, break-out sessions, and keynote addresses featuring federal, state, local, and industry leaders focused on advancing sustainability and equity in the District. The DC Clean Energy Summit is on Wednesday, Oct. 30, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Kellogg Conference Center at Gallaudet University, 800 Florida Ave. NE. Register at cleanenergysummitdc.com.
Do You Have a Notice for the Bulletin Board? The Hill Rag Bulletin Board includes event notices, volunteer opportunities and other community news. If you have a notice, send it to bulletinboard@ hillrag.com. u
Vaughn Spann’s Dark Days Bring New Hope
Carnivorous Sundew
R.THOMAS DANIEL ROOFING
•FREE INSPECTION
• LEAK REPAIR
• NEW ROOFS
• ROOF COATING
• Gutter & Downspouts
• Skylights
• Chimneys
Uncover Hidden Future Costs. Warning Signs Could Mean Higher Costs If Not Corrected Today!
•Roof is over 10 years old
• Interior water stains
•Visible leaks or cracks
•Loose attic insulation
•Open joints and seams on roof
•Drains/gutters filled with debris
•Loose chimney flashing or mortar
•Skylight cracked or leaking
GARDENS
HOMEIMPROVEMENT
photo: Jason Yen
CHRS House Expo Connecting Homeowners With Contractors
by Libby Quaid
Are you mulling a home improvement project now or sometime in the future? You can find help at the annual free House Expo, hosted by Capitol Hill Restoration Society, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, October 26, in Eastern Market’s North Hall.
It’s an opportunity to meet local contractors and service providers along with representatives from city agencies. CHRS volunteers will also lead free walking tours of historic Eastern Market.
It’s a wonderful community event, said CHRS President Angie Schmidt. “It has so much energy. It brings together all of the elements of our neighborhood.”
Exhibitors represent the fields of architecture, brick and stone masonry, construction, electrical services, iron work, house painting, house research and history, antique salvage tile, radiator and wood stripping, and solar power, to name a few. D.C.’s Department of Energy and
Environment and Fire and EMS Department are also exhibitors.
CHRS developed its guided tour for Eastern Market’s 150th anniversary in 2023, focusing on the building’s architecture as well as its colorful history. The tour includes a trip to the market’s basement, where you can see evidence of its past as a World War I shooting range. Tours will be given throughout the day.
CHRS is a civic organization formed in 1955. Its earliest efforts included pressuring Congress to spare the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument along Constitution Avenue, then known as the Alva Belmont House, from being razed as part of the Dirksen Senate Office Building construction. The group was among the advocates who successfully pushed to keep East Capitol Street from being leveled to become a secondary National Mall in the late 1950s.
The first CHRS House & Garden Tour was in 1958. Held annually on Mother’s Day weekend, the tour is the group’s biggest and most popular annual event. u
Homeowners meet contractors at last year’s CHRS Home Expo.
Turning a New Leaf
photos and article by Annette Nielsen
Hill Rag readers are fortunate to have had Rindy O’Brien as a garden guru and guide with her extensive expertise – celebrating gardening and growing on Capitol Hill in more than 200 articles over nearly two decades. She not only embraces our urban landscape, but shares a great lesson that to be a good gardener takes patience, nurturing and a willingness to suspend disbelief. In bringing out the joy we feel in taking care of the plants that feed us in many ways, I am grateful for the groundwork Rindy has laid, however it’s daunting to follow in her footsteps. Mostly a utilitarian gardener (I love to cook and appreciate the economy and flavor from growing my own food), I will continue to learn in this space, from all of you, and the abundant resources we find in and around Washington, DC.
Mother Nature Bats Last
The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) is the country’s primary urban land grant university. I recently spoke with Mchezaji “Che” Axum, the Direc-
tor of the Center for Urban Agriculture and Gardening Education. Che leads a team of researchers at the Firebird Research Farm in Beltsville, Maryland, and oversees several community education programs including the DC Master Gardening Program, Urban Agriculture Soil-Less Certificate, Urban Agriculture Technician Certificate, Introduction to Agroecology and Sustainable Food Production, Gardening and Nutrition Program, and more.
LEFT: Coy McKinney (right with son) and Pamela McKinney (left, with daughter) take their family time in the SW Community Garden.
BELOW: SW Community Garden members, Pamela McKinney and Karen Petrus tend to garden chores like watering and seed collecting.
Bonny Wolf, longtime Hill Resident, avid cook and food writer says she purposely placed her herbs close to her kitchen so they are within easy reach, able to snip as they are cooking–and all of her herbs (minus the basil) last through the winter season.
FAR LEFT: The United States Department of Agriculture has had a “People’s Garden” named in honor of President Abraham Lincoln. The simple act of planting a garden can have big impacts–from building a more diverse and resilient local food system to empowering communities to address issues like nutrition access and climate change.
Che offered advice for fall gardening tasks and how to prepare our soil going into fall and winter. “The most important thing you can do going into the fall is to clean your garden of plant debris. This is where insects and plant diseases hide out, especially if it is not a very cold winter.”
Recently, my family and I moved back to Washington, DC from New York City, and I’m excited about a longer growing season
Resources:
Community Gardens
DC Department of Parks and Recreation dpr.dc.gov/page/community-gardens
Frager’s Hardware Plants, seeds, and gardening supplies: 1115 Pennsylvania Ave, SE, 202.543.6157
Ginko Gardens
Full Service Garden Center: 911 11th Street, SE, 202.543.5172
High Mowing Seeds
Organic Seeds: Highmowingseeds.com
ReWild Plants and Planters: 232 7th Street, SE, 202.758.3251
Seed Savers Exchange
Heirloom Seeds: seedsavers.org
Southwest Community Garden 1098 Delaware Avenue, SW, Swgardens.org
University of the District of Columbia CAUSES: Center for Urban Agriculture and Gardening Education udc.edu/causes/land-grant/center-for-urban-agriculture-gardening-education/
Soil Testing at Environmental Quality Testing Laboratory (EQTL) https://docs.udc.edu/eqtl/BH7-Fee-Schedule-updated-on-August-22-2023.pdf
here. However, Che told me that most fall produce planting would need to start in August, “The crops that will survive the frost will need at least 90% growth to last in the garden until March of the following year – and they will mainly be crops of the Brassica plant family.” (Brassicas are those hardy vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, collard greens, kale, and turnips.)
“October is somewhat late to plant unless you use plasticculture, planting into biodegradable black plastic. You might stand a chance of eating something from this planting but don’t count on it. Mother Nature bats last!” One exception to this rule is garlic which is a garden favorite and goes in the ground early November, providing one of the first spring harvests in the top part of the plant, known as garlic scapes. He adds, “Most herbs will overwinter in our region if you adhere to the 90% growth rule. Only basil will wave the white flag of surrender when the first frost comes.”
Other things to consider when you’re just starting an inground garden is testing your soil. Che notes there are many places to send soil samples, and we’ve included a link in the resources section for where you can send out for testing at UDC.
For those of us who like to study and read about growing fresh produce, Che recommended his favorite book for gardening; ‘How to Grow More Vegetables’ by John Jeavons, which talks about bio-intensive crop production, principles addressed in a class at UDC that will be offered in spring 2025.
Community Gardeners
Particularly in urban centers, we benefit from the green spaces around us – whether by improved air quality or serving as an environmental heat sink. Some of the noted benefits of gardening include alleviating stress, providing emotional well-being in a place to gather with neighbors, and increased physical activity. Often, gardens provide access to culturally relevant and nutritious food.
From the People’s Garden fronting the main office of the United States Department of Agriculture, to pocket parks across the city, our community garden spaces are valued. The award-winning Southwest Community Garden, in its 11th year, is a stand-out for the variety of fruits and vegetables found there.
Pamela and Coy McKinney are members of the Southwest Community Garden; Pamela serves as president and Coy was an early founding member. Pamela said that she first got involved with this community effort after the two were dating. As Coy was going to tend the garden a couple of days a week, she decided to follow along and found she enjoyed the sense of community.
Pamela showed off the garden’s diversity, “In addition to all of the vegetables, we have a grove of pawpaws started
from a single tree, a fig tree started from a graft, and sedum, pollinators, and a number of herb varieties like anise, basil and dill grown in raised boxes – some with a medicinal focus, all part of the communal section.”
She notes, “We have about 150 people gardening in the space each year – it really brings together a collective brain trust and shows just how much you can learn about growing from your neighbors.”
The garden tasks don’t stop once the harvest has been completed, though. Pamela says, “Our big clean-up happens during October. We are already planting cover crops like Hairy Vetch and clover to add nitrogen to the soil, and we will start saving some seeds for the next planting season. We also need to work on re-doing the signage for the communal growing areas –a good project for over the winter.”
While helping his young son with a wheelbarrow and youth-sized gardening tools Coy adds, “It’s all very therapeutic. We always look forward to the new growing season when a new crop of people become regulars. The garden is a great place to gather, bringing people together.”
Fall seedlings on racks found at Frager’s Hardware range from edible Brassicas to ornamental cabbages and chrysanthemums.
Kitchen Window Garden
Our backyard gardens don’t have to be vast to produce a good amount of food. Often, a windowsill, balcony or patio can provide a beautiful container gardening space used year-round. Longtime Capitol Hill resident, food writer, avid cook, and former USDA staer, Bonny Wolf understands the cycles of the seasonal harvest, and the importance of ease of access when it comes to preparing a meal from the garden. Her backyard is a peaceful and beautiful space evolving over the years with equal attention paid to the placement of the edible and the ornamental. While her g tree didn’t perform as well as she wanted this year, her herb production is robust.
Bonny says, “I purposely place the herbs close to the kitchen, so they are in easy reach. I’m able to easily snip a few that I might need in a recipe– whether from the window box or down below on ground level.”
Her herbs don’t require a heavy lift, either as we transition into the cooler season, “All but the basil will keep producing through the winter – I have fresh rosemary, thyme, chives, and mint year-round.”
Bonny is also a great go-to for cooking advice and suggested this recipe for our transition into winter cooking, a great way to eat up the last of the tomatoes, add some brassicas, beautifully aromatic herbs and more.
ROOFING & GUTTERS
FLAT ROOF SPECIALISTS
NEW ROOFS
EXPERTS IN PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
ROOF COATINGS AND REPAIR
ALL TYPES OF ROOFING
GUTTERS/DOWNSPOUTS
CHIMNEY REPAIRS
BRICK AND MASONRY WATERPROOFING
BRICK TUCKPOINTING
BLOWN-IN INSULATION
Annette Nielsen, a writer and food systems advisor, has recently returned to Capitol Hill from New York where she served as the executive director of the Hunter College NYC Food Policy Center. ◆
A Roofing Contractor Protects His Own Roof from Winter Storms
by Tom Daniel
As I am writing this, Hurricane Helene is raging through Florida on her way to Georgia, the Carolinas, Tennessee and beyond. This is a massive Category 4 hurricane, with nearly 30” of rain in some places and winds up to 155 mph, that has caused unimaginable flooding, property damage and loss of life. As I was watch-
ing coverage of the storm on the Weather Channel, I could see many roofs were significantly damaged or blown-off altogether. Thankfully, it looks like the DC area will be spared in this case. However, as winter approaches, we are always vulnerable to potentially significant wind, ice and snow events.
I am a roofing contractor, and I worry about my own roof. It’s true, and if you knew what I know about roofing, you would definitely have your roof inspected before winter. I check my own roof every fall to make sure we are ready. Since you may not know everything to look for on your roof, let us or another roofing contractor do that for you.
The time to have your roof inspected and, repaired if needed, is NOW! You don’t want to wait until the ice and snow arrive. While the DC area is not known for extreme winter storms every year, it does happen. In 2010 and 2011, we were blasted with massive snow, ice and wind which caused major damage and emergency situations for all of DC and Capitol Hill homeowners. We worked around
the clock the winter of 2010 to help our customers deal with the damage to their roofs from Snowmageddon.
Ice, snow and wind can present all kinds of problems including:
• Leaky ceilings and windows caused by gaps and cracks in roofs, windows, flashing, sky-
Wind-damaged gutter.
Roof sagging from pooling water.
Gutter filled with leaves and debris.
Winda Deteriorated chimney in need of reconstruction.
lights, chimneys, vent pipes, ducts and wiring that penetrates the roof from your AC unit.
• Flooded basements from gutter and spout overflow created by “ice dams.”
• Falling tree branches from wind and ice causing punctured roofs and broken skylights.
• Wall caps (parapets) blown off And the list goes on
Roofing Prep 101
Here are some specific action items which should ideally be performed by your roofing contractor now to make sure you are ready for winter:
• Clean-out the roof gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters can cause ice dams and lead to water backing up under your roof, potentially damaging the roof and the interior of your home. Leaves, twigs and other debris that have accumulated should be removed by hand or leaf blower and flushed with water. Installation of gutter guards can help prevent leaves and debris from clogging your gutters while still allowing water to flow through.
• Impro ve attic ventilation and insulation. Attic vents and insulation help maintain a healthy roof and reduce energy costs. The attic should be checked to make sure you have sufficient intake and exhaust vents. Proper ventilation
helps maintain a consistent temperature in the attic which can also prevent those pesky ice dams from forming. Ice dams form when heat escapes through the roof and melts snow, which then re-freezes at the eaves of the roof.
• Inspect the roof for signs of sagging. A sagging roof requires immediate attention and can indicate structural problems or water damage to the roof decking. Sagging areas can worsen over winter due to the added weight of snow and ice.
• Seal roof gaps and openings. Applying roofing sealant to gaps and openings on roof penetrates can prevent melted snow or ice from entering the interior of your home.
In closing, being proactive to prevent potential problems and not reactive after problems have already occurred, is a good way to protect your home. And stay o your roof in winter! Practice safety rst and call your roo ng professional to deal with your winter roo ng problems.
Tom Daniel, owner of R. Thomas Daniel Roo ng, LLC, is the third generation of the Daniel family that has provided roo ng services to thousands of Capitol Hill homeowners for nearly 100 years. The rm is a Preferred Vendor of Capitol Hill Village and supports various community organizations. Contact Tom at 202-569-1080 or tom@rthomasdanielroo ng.com for all your roofing needs. ◆
My garden is looking a bit tired and lackluster this time of year. How can I add a little interest without a lot of work?
The arrival of autumn doesn’t mean the end of beauty in your garden. In fact, this season offers a unique opportunity to showcase plants that thrive in the cooler weather and bring fresh interest to your outdoor spaces. Ornamental grasses, asters, and chrysanthemums are among the stars of the fall garden, providing texture, color, and movement that can carry your garden through to the first frost and beyond.
The Elegance of Ornamental Grasses
Ornamental grasses are the unsung heroes of the autumn garden. With their graceful, arching forms and subtle hues, they add structure and movement to garden beds and borders.
One of the most popular ornamental grasses for fall interest is Miscanthus sinensis, commonly known as Maiden Grass. This tall, clumpforming grass features feathery plumes that emerge in late summer and persist into the win-
In The Weeds
by Capitol Hill Garden Club
ter, gradually changing from silvery-white to a rich, tawny brown.
Another standout is Panicum virgatum, or Switchgrass. This native grass is valued for its upright habit and airy, cloud-like flower heads that appear in late summer and last through the fall. The foliage of Switchgrass often turns shades of gold, red, or purple as the temperatures drop, adding a splash of color to the garden. It’s also a favorite for its drought tolerance and adaptability to a variety of soil types.
For smaller spaces, Pennisetum alopecuroides, known as Fountain Grass, is an excellent choice. Its arching, fountain-like shape and soft, bottlebrush-like plumes make it a favorite among gardeners. The flowers start as a soft pink or purple and fade to a buff color, providing continuous interest throughout the fall.
Asters: Autumn’s Floral Fireworks
When it comes to late-season color, few plants can rival the brilliance of asters. These hardy perennials burst into bloom just as many summer flowers are fading, providing a much-needed splash of color in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white. Asters are particularly valuable in the fall garden because they are one of the last sources of nectar for
pollinators like bees and butterflies.
One of the most popular varieties is Aster novae-angliae, or New England Aster. This robust, bushy plant can reach up to six feet tall and produces a profusion of daisy-like flowers from late summer through fall. Its vibrant purple or pink blooms contrast beautifully with the yellowing foliage of trees and shrubs, creating a stunning autumn display.
For a more compact option, consider Aster dumosus, or Dwarf Aster. This low-growing plant is perfect for the front of borders or for planting in containers. Its smaller stature doesn’t diminish its impact, as it produces masses of cheerful, star-shaped flowers that will brighten any garden in the fall.
Chrysanthemums: The Quintessential Fall Flower
No discussion of fall gardening would be complete without mentioning chrysanthemums, or simply “mums.” These classic fall flowers are synonymous with autumn!
Chrysanthemums are available in countless varieties, from the large, showy blooms of Chrysanthemum morifolium to the delicate, daisy-like flowers of Chrysanthemum indicum. They come in almost every color imaginable, including shades of red, orange, yellow, pink, and white, making them a versatile choice for any garden design. Mums are incredibly easy to grow and can be used in a variety of ways. They work well in borders, containers, or as part of a mixed perennial bed.
By incorporating ornamental grasses, asters, and chrysanthemums into your garden, you can extend the beauty of your landscape well into the autumn months.
Changing Hands
Changing Hands is a list of residential sales in Capitol Hill and contiguous neighborhoods from the previous month. A feature of every issue, this list, based on the MRIS, is provided courtesy of Don Denton, Associate Broker at Coldwell Banker Realty on Capitol Hill. The list includes address, sales price and number of bedrooms.
LUXURY CORNER CASTLE ON STANTON PARK! Truly extraordinary NEW corner castle at the epicenter of Capitol Hill, with commanding Stanton Park perspective. Timeless brick turret design spans FOUR fantastic levels of 4400 STUNNING square feet. 34 FEET WIDE and featuring FIFTY bright bay windows with 200-degree views! 4-block stroll to Senate, SCOTUS,
Smartfromthe Start
FAMILY LIFE
Flash Fitness
Integrating Exercise into Daily Life
by Pattie Cinelli
How many times have you said to yourself, “I’m too tired to exercise. I’ll go to the gym tomorrow. It’s too cold (or hot) to go for a walk.” Or, “I just don’t feel like it.” You are not alone. Only 28 percent of Americans are exercising enough, said the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) last year, and it’s even a lower percentage in some regions of the country. They also stated half of American adults have at least one illness that could be prevented by regular exercise.
Even with my knowledge and understanding of the importance of movement to my continued health, I can easily talk myself out of working out. I am talented at inventing unique and creative rea-
sons why it’s not possible. It has become even harder for me to adhere to a regular workout routine since I no longer work in a gym.
Then I discovered a way to keep my heart fit, my muscles strong and flexible and my core conditioned. I do ‘Flash Fitness’ by blending strength training and cardio into my everyday life.
I wanted to continue to remain injury-free while I play pickleball, paddle Hawaiian outriggers and balance on my SUP (stand up paddleboard). Most importantly, I want to remain diagnosis-free.
What is Flash Fitness
I coined the title because it’s a quick way to get moving. Flash Fitness is the modern way to exercise without changing clothes, going out, hiring a trainer or paying for a gym membership. It’s easy and it’s extremely convenient. All you need is body awareness (so you don’t get injured) and a basic knowledge of exercise. Flash Fitness is taking just about anything you do (yes, even a trip to the toilet) and blending a couple of sets of exercises into the activity.
Blending Movement into Function
like Vitale, you are building up your balance and core strength, then gently lean on the sink while standing on one foot. From that position you can also do side leg lifts or heel raises to strengthen calves.
“Doing pushups on my steps is hard,” said Marty Vitale, who learned how to incorporate the exercise when she walks upstairs. Vitale lost muscle tone during her almost three-month rehab from a broken ankle. She used several different arm positions on the steps to target different muscle groups.
Exercises to strengthen her legs were more challenging. When she balanced on one leg while doing dishes she could feel the burn. If,
Sitting watching TV? Why not do a few squats without missing one frame of the show. Press up from your chair or couch then descend gently tapping without sitting, then lift again. Walking a dog? Why not try different ways to pick up poop. You can do deep knee bends, you can engage your core and slowly bend from the waist which stretches your hamstrings (back of legs) or you can balance on one leg as you pick it up. Remember to repeat the exercise several times.
Don’t think you are getting enough cardio?
Pattie doing bicep curls with her 32-lb. mini goldendoodle Dante.
Marty Vitale doing a set of glute squeezes at the kitchen counter.
Pattie doing bicep curls with her 32-lb. mini goldendoodle Dante.
L. Bernier RN, PhD
Tune into Vevo music on Pluto TV and rock out to your favorite genre of songs. I nd rocking out at home is a good way to perfect my moves for the dance oor at my favorite night spot. Want to really get your heart
pumping? Run up and down your steps a few times. Or grab some books and steadily climb up and down.
Exercise Builds on Itself
We have been bombarded with the bene ts of regular physical activity over the years. But did you know that those bene ts such as increased energy, mood enhancement, improved brain health and memory, improved sleep quality and a reduced risk of chronic disease can address the excuses we have for not exercising?
If you are always tired, starting to exercise can give you more energy and improve your sleep. Being too busy doesn’t y either because you don’t need a lot of time to throw in a few sets of lunges while you are cooking.
Integrating exercises into your day can be your main workout or it can ll in the gaps in your regular regimen. I nd the better I strengthen my foundation the better I play on the court or in the water.
Instead of beating yourself up for not exercising, add movement to whatever you do during the day. Don’t forget to applaud yourself for your accomplishment and note that you made movement a priority yet didn’t have to give up anything to work at staying healthy.
Pattie Cinelli is a journalist and a tness professional who has been writing her column for more than 25 years. Please contact her at: tmiss44@ aol.com.
Above: Marty Vitale balancing and strengthening her core while washing dishes.
BELOW: Pattie doing squats at the dinner table.
The District Vet Pet Care Costs
by Dan Teich, DVM
Pet care costs have risen significantly the past five years. There are several causes, with the largest percentage being due to increased wages for veterinary technicians, assistants. and client care representatives. For far too many years, support staff wages have lagged behind those in other medical professions. The advent of the pandemic and workforce challenges and increased awareness of quality of life issues with veterinary staff has led to much needed staff compensation increases. Unlike human healthcare, where the cost borne by the patient is hidden behind a web of insurance bureaucracy, hidden fees, and lord knows accounting, all costs for veterinary care are borne by the client. Pet insurance is an option, which we will discuss below, and our elected members in Congress are trying to add a new pet financial plan, too.
Pet Insurance
First we need to briefly tackle pet insurance. It doesn’t work like human insurance (thankfully), but has its own complications. Pet insurance works as a reimbursement program: after the client settles their invoice, they submit the invoice, and sometimes the whole medical chart, and the insurance company pays the client back, either through a check or automatic transfer to their bank account. Like human insurance, though, there are deductibles and certain non-covered conditions. Many plans will not cover a preexisting condition—and some insurance companies are very liberal in their definition of a pre-existing condition, to the detriment of the client. Policies vary greatly with coverage, age of pet, prior issues, breed, city location, all affecting the premium prices. Examine any policy carefully before purchasing!
Remember that an insurance com-
pany must take in more than they pay out: aka in the end, most people will pay more than they receive. Whereas homeowner’s insurance covers a huge sum, should there be a problem, pet insurance payouts and costs are more moderate. An emerging trend amongst clients is to create a high-yield savings / investing account for their pet. Every month funds are automatically transferred from their regular checking to this special account, with money being used only for pet emergencies. Should the pet remain healthy, the account will grow and can be used for future care.
The PAW Act
Many people put the health of their pets ahead of their own, treating them as members of the family. The challenge of affording pet care has reached the halls of Congress. In September Congresswomen Claudia Tenney and Deborah Ross introduced the People and Animals Wellbeing (PAW) Act, which will amend Internal Revenue Service code to allow veterinary care under advantaged
health care spending accounts, including Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
Should the PAW Act be enacted, pet owners may use these accounts to pay for up to $1,000 for veterinary care or pet insurance. Service animals, including those serving veterans, would be exempt from the $1,000 limit. The act does not increase the total amount allowed in these accounts, though.
In a press release, Congresswoman Tenney stated, “Our pets and service animals are cherished members of our families, and it’s essential that owners have the ability to pay for quality care. The PAW Act offers greater flexibility to pet owners by allowing them to use HSAs and FSAs for pet care expenses. This legislation will help veterans, and all pet owners afford veterinary care for their beloved pets and service animals.”
Congresswoman Ross added in the same release, “ …rising veterinary costs often make it challenging for families and veterans to provide care for their pets or service animals. As a dog owner, I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan PAW Act that would include veterinary care and pet insurance as eligible expenses under HSAs and FSAs to help ensure every animal lover can afford care for their pet. I’m grateful for the partnership of Congresswoman Tenney and will keep working to see this bill signed into law.”
The bill has the support of a broad spectrum of the veterinary care community, including the American Veterinary Medical Association, the Human Animal Bond Research Institute, and several pet insurance providers.
Dr. Teich is the medical director for District Veterinary Hospitals in Navy Yard, Eastern Market and Brookland. Visit www.districtvet. com for more information. u
Chesapeake Bay Outward Bound School
by Stephanie Deutsch
It would be an understatement to say that Kristen Komlosy is enthusiastic about her job as Executive Director of the Chesapeake Bay Outward Bound School, an institution which offers youth in the Baltimore and Washington, DC areas opportunities for outdoor learning that is more than fun. It can be challenging, scary, thrilling – as she says, “transformative.”
From her years as director of Girls on the Run, DC, Kristen appreciates the physical and emo -
tional benefits young people derive from structured outdoor activity and from the encouragement of experienced leaders. These are benefits she would like to see offered to greater numbers of young people in our area.
Outward Bound was originally a survival school for adults. It was founded in 1941 in Wales, its name derived from the nautical term for a ship leaving the safety of a harbor for the unpredictable rigors of the open sea. The expeditions it created sought to foster in adults confidence, selfreliance, and the ability to cooperate with others. Today Outward Bound offers these programs in 35 countries but it has also been the inspiration
for a growing number of schools and programs in this country targeted at young people, seeking to give them a powerful foundation of skills, knowledge, habits of mind, and qualities of character important as they navigate the challenges of life – which, like the open sea, are unpredictable. Baltimore Outward Bound was founded in 1986 by, among others, Mayor Kurt Schmoke and Baltimore Orioles player and coach Eddie Murray. In 2019 Mayor Muriel Bowser and Representative Eleanor Holmes Norton were among those who sought to bring the program to Washington, DC. In the years since 2020 thousands of D.C. students have benefited from a variety of programs from one-day teambuilding exercises to five-day wilderness expeditions.
The Chesapeake Bay Outward Bound School brings together the Baltimore and Washington programs. In D.C. it has worked with 20 partners across the city among them public, charter and private schools including two in the Capitol Hill area – Center City Public Charter School and Kingsman Academy. Participating groups contribute one third of the cost. The rest of the expense is covered by the Chesapeake Bay Outward Bound School which raises over a million dollars a year from foundations, corporations, government grants and individuals. In 2023 $989,033 was delivered as scholarships and program support.
The Programs
Among the programs offered are Student Insight Days which aim to engage young people in collaboration and problem solving as well as offering them activities that are fun. High points of the day
– literally – are a rope climbing challenge where participants support each other by managing the belaying rope and a ride on a zip-line some initially find terrifying. Guides and coaches along with the students motivate each other and celebrate each successful climb or ride. Ideally, the one-day program is preparation for a five-day adventure for middle and high school students, one that takes them away from the city for camping and exploration on the Appalachian Trail in Virginia or hiking at Annapolis Rock near Antietam or kayaking on the Eastern Shore.
“The Outward Bound program brings incredible value not just to our students but to us as adult educators,” commented Jermar Rountree, a health and physical education teacher at Center City PCS (and also the 2023 DC Teacher of the Year). “When they came to lead activities for our team the excitement was palpable! We couldn’t stop discussing the low-risk, high-reward activities they introduced, which are perfect for our classes. That day, we learned how to foster expression and more importantly, how to pass that knowledge on to our students. It was truly powerful.”
Kristen Komlosy, Execlutive Director of Chesapeake Bay Outward Bound School
These programs are fun, Kristen says, but they are also rigorous, their outcomes based on the Domains of Thriving model that Outward Bound has been using for over half a century to foster development in four areas –courage, belonging, reflection and physical engagement. Each of these o ers participants a host of bene ts in both personal and academic life, from increased selfcon dence to greater connection with others and a deeper appreciation of nature. Their bene ts last a lifetime.
“The outdoors is a big part of my own life,” says Kristen. She lives in Graysonville, Maryland and spends time with her husband and their two college aged sons kayaking and boating there. Once a year she takes a hiking trip with her friends. A former elementary school teacher, she is drawn to mission-based work and sees the Chesapeake Bay Outward Bound School as an opportunity to bring the joys and bene ts of the outdoors to some who might not otherwise have the opportunity to experience them.
In the next three years, Kristen hopes to double the number of students in DC who bene t from these programs. And, if all goes according to plan, in the fall of 2025 the Chesapeake Bay Outward Bound school will have a permanent D.C. presence at THEARC in Anacostia from which administer these programs with what she hopes will be an ever-expanding network of community and neighborhood partners.
For more information see www.outwardboundchesapeake. org or www.outwardboundchesapeake.org/dc-campus. ◆
NE Stars Montessori
In the Montessori classroom, children use individual work mats to delineate their personal workspace. At the beginning of any floor work, and before taking material from the shelf, the children are asked to create their workspace by placing a mat on the floor. Carrying the work back to the floor and then rolling it marks the beginning of the
S chool N otes
by Susan Braun Johnson
children’s work. Similarly, rolling up the mat and returning the mat to its basket marks the end. The students are learning to unroll and roll a work mat. They have also enjoyed exploring the classroom work items and socializing with their peers.
This year, everyone at Maury ES is exploring the theme “productive struggle”. In Think Tank (science class) Ms. Conant’s fifth grade students tackled an engaging engineering problem: how to protect an egg from breaking, using only straws and tape. Not an easy or straight-forward task. They
gle. And triangles are the strongest shape. Maury Elementary, 1250 Constitution Ave. NE, mauryelementary.com
Friends Community School
Earlier this month, 5th and 6th graders used geography to help establish classroom norms, putting a unique twist on a standard beginning-of-year procedure. Students assembled in small groups, forming ‘islands’ that were a part of a class ‘archipelago.’ Students brainstormed necessary values and boundaries that would help ensure the islands and archipelago were peaceful and prosperous. With a slight change of language, these values and boundaries translated well into classroom norms that would foster a fun and productive learning environment for the class as a whole.
tested their prototypes with plastic eggs, then headed to the playground where the eggs were launched from a very tall ladder. Many went splat on the first go-round, but several survived all three plunges. Takeaways: This exercise was indeed a productive strug-
Friends Community School, 5901 Westchester Park Dr, College Park, MD; friendscommunityschool.org
Payne
Three school legends say goodbye to over 105 years total of commitment to DCPS. Thank you to Melissa Baggett: 37 years, Jacqueline Douglas: 33 years and Marion McDowell: 35 years.
Payne Elementary, 1445 C St, SE; Paynedc.org
Capitol Hill Day School
At Capitol Hill Day School, experiential and exploratory learning is a hallmark of the program. Their youngest learners—PreK and Kindergarteners—start the year with a tour of the school building to familiarize themselves with new spaces and faces. This tour of course includes a stop in the famous Rose Window Room, the window represented in the school’s logo.
Capitol Hill Day School, 210 South Carolina Ave, SE; chds.org
St. Peter School
Each summer, Saint Peter School (SPS) students in Grades 2-8 are challenged to read 5 or more books, with the reward being a party hosted by School Librarian Mrs. Jeni Freed on the first Thursday of the school year. This summer, every single student met (or exceeded) the goal, and
Northeast Stars Montessori Preschool
Maury
Friends Community School
Payne
Capitol Hill Day Sachool
awards were presented to those reading the most in each grade.
Pictured Left to Right: Maggie Sloan (Grade 8), Avery McNamara (Grade 7), Caroline Schwartz (Grade 6), Cecelia McHenry (Grade 5), Nathaniel Lawrence (Grade 4), Librarian Mrs. Jeni Freed, Nissa Parthum (Grade 3), Ella Cota-Hertwig (Grade 3), and Lachlan Dougherty (Grade 2).
St Peter School, 422 Third St, SE; stpeterschooldc.org
Rocketship Infinity Community Prep
On Sept. 6, students at Rocketship Infinity Community Prep got to ‘pin’ their principal to the wall as a reward for over 90 percent attendance every day last week. The kids loved getting to participate in this fun celebration of coming to
school every day. Attendance is down and chronic absenteeism is up across the country and across the DMV. Attendance incentives like this one are just one way that Rocketship DC is working with families to get their students to school each and every day so that they can learn. Their staff also calls and texts families right away if their student is absent, often prompting parents to bring their child into school for at least part of the day. Rocketship is built upon building relationships with our families and we’re already seeing this personalized, daily outreach improving our attendance this year.
Rocketship Infinity Community Prep, 5450 3rd St NE; rocketshipschools.org/schools/infinity-community-prep
Mundo Verde
With the start of the school year, Mundo Verde students embarked on a journey of discovery, collaboration, and fun-filled learning adventures! They’re exploring new topics, building friendships, and engaging in hands-on activities that spark curiosity. Each day brings new opportunities for growth and creativity.
J.F. Cook Campus, 30 P St NW; Calle Ocho Campus, 4401 8th St NE; mundoverdepcs.org
Elliot Hine
This year has gotten off to a great start. Boys and girls soccer kicked off their seasons, Cross Country had their first meet, and the boys started their football season in partnership with Kramer Middle School. Some of Eliot Hine’s student authors published their own book, How the Story Goes. Students worked with www.826dc.org, who guided them in their creative writing and illustrations and helped them publish this collection.
Templeton Academy is thrilled to kick off the new school
year with energy and enthusiasm! Our students and teachers have hit the ground running, with weekly field trips designed to enrich and deepen their learning experiences. We’re also eagerly anticipating our upcoming Exhibition Nights, scheduled for November 4th. We are preparing to open applications for the 2025/2026 academic year, with spots available for 6th through 10th grades, while 11th and 12th grades are currently on a waitlist. For families interested in exploring our unique program, we invite you to visit our website at www.templetonacademy.org. For more details about our upcoming tours and admissions process email saad.merzouk@templetonacademy.org.
Templeton Academy Address: 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE; templetonacademy.org u
St. Peter School
Rocketship Infinity Community Prep
Mundo Verde
Elliot Hine
Templeton Academy
Kids & Family
Hilloween at Eastern Market
On Friday, Oct. 25, 5 to 7:30 p.m., get ready for a spine-tingling adventure at Hilloween, the ultimate community event that delivers extra-spooky thrills and shriek-inducing excitement for families and kids of all ages. Enjoy pumpkin carving, Zumba, a dance party with DJ and much more. hilloweendc.com.
Find a Nearby Corn Maze, Pumpkin Patch or Hayride
Find pumpkin patches, pick-your-own pumpkin farms, hayrides and corn mazes in Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia at pumpkinpatchesandmore.org. The site claims to have the world’s best pumpkin pie and pie crust recipes as well. It also has home canning, preserving, drying and freezing directions. Most pumpkin patches and corn mazes open by mid-September; some earlier. In winter, you’ll nd cut-your-own Christmas tree farms at pickyourownchristmastree.org.
Día de los Muertos Family Day at SAAM
On Saturday, Oct. 26, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., celebrate Día de los Muertos with the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Eighth and G streets NW. Bring the whole family to see exciting live performances, including traditional Mexican folk dance by Corazon Folklorico, a mariachi performance by Mariachi Aguila DC, and a showcase of di erent Latin American music genres and dances with Sol y Rumba. Face painting and hands-on craft activities. Round out the day by exploring the museum’s collection with their Día de los Muertos-themed scavenger hunt. Free; no registration required. americanart.si.edu.
Uncle Devin at the KC
On Saturday, Nov. 9, at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., go on a magical journey through the Land of Percussion to see and hear di erent percussion instruments with DCbased musician Uncle Devin. Through this interactive musical experience, kids and their families will discover the history of percussion and move to the beat of funky drums, Go-Go, and more. General admission is $22. kennedycenter.org.
Courtesy of the Smithsonian American Art Museum; photo by Norwood Photography.
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Boo at the Zoo (always sells out)
Boo at the Zoo, the National Zoo’s beloved family-friendly event, is back Oct. 18, 19 and 20, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Grab your best costume and enjoy the season’s festivities while stopping at 30 trick-or-treat stations. Plus, feast your eyes on the Zoo’s amazing animals as they interact with jack-o’lanterns and other spellbinding Halloween-themed enrichment. Outside the animal exhibits, enjoy spooky scenes of frolicking skeletons and other fantastic creatures haunting the Zoo’s main walkway. Tickets include special afterhours access for animal viewing at the Elephant Community Center, Small Mammal House and Reptile Discovery Center, plus a souvenir tote bag for gathering up goodies from trick-or-treat stations around the Zoo. Admission is $35; and $30 for parking. nationalzoo.si.edu.
PumpkinPalooza at Alethia Tanner Park
On Thursday, Oct. 24 (rain date, Friday, Oct. 25), 4 to 8 p.m., join the NoMa Business Improvement District at Alethia Tanner Park, 227 Harry Thomas Way NE, for free, fall fun for the whole family. Monsters. Inc. movie begins at 6:30 p.m. Other activities include a free pick-your-own pumpkin patch, costume contests for people and dogs, live music, face painting and food truck onsite. nomabid.org/pumpkinpalooza.
The Big Build at the National Building Museum
NPG Teen Portrait Competition Announced
The Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery has announced its 2025 Teen Portrait Competition, which is open to students between the ages of 13 and 17 residing in the US and its territories. Teens are invited to submit original digital photography to this national competition hosted by the Portrait Gallery’s Teen Museum Council. Artwork by the winners for each of the two age groups (13–15 and 16–17) will be displayed near the museum’s upcoming The Outwin 2025: American Portraiture Today exhibition. Opening May 3, 2025, The Outwin 2025 showcases portraits from artists ages 18 and older selected from the museum’s triennial Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition. The teens’ winning portraits, alongside those that receive honorable mentions, will be viewable online. There is no fee to enter the teen competition and submissions are limited to one per person. Work must be submitted via email to NPG-TeenPortraitCompetition@si.edu by Dec. 23. npg.si.edu/learn/teens/teenportrait-competition.
Capital City Symphony: Inspire Family Concert
On Saturday, Oct. 19, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., all ages are invited to National Building Museum’s The Big Build, a free hands-on festival exploring a wide variety of unique, interactive activities with roofers, plumbers, home remodelers, construction workers, carpenters, designers, and artisans. The Big Build celebrates the world we design and build and fills the Museum’s Great Hall with interactive booths including a nail driving contest and a structural engineering station with an earthquake simulation to discover how buildings can be built to be more stable. Everyone will be using real tools and you can even climb inside construction equipment in the outdoor Petting Zoo. The Tech Room will have augmented reality demonstrations, VR experiences, and other immersive digital activities to engage older children and teens. The National Building Museum is at 401 F St. NW. nbm.org.
On Sunday, Nov. 3, at 2:30 and 5 p.m., at the Atlas, 1333 H St. NE, join CCS for a musical adventure. Based on Mo Willems’ beloved book, composer Jessie Montgomery’s “Because” tells the tale of a curious girl who discovers the magic of music through the power of community. As the stage comes to life with narration, colorful illustrations, and a full orchestra, the playful melodies of Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony mingle with Montgomery’s original music as the girl moves from exploration to discovery. Prepare to be surprised, laugh along--and maybe find your own inspiration at their Instrument Petting Zoo. Tickets are
Boo at the Zoo returns Oct. 18, 19 and 20 at Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.
free for ages 16 and younger; and $24.25 for adults. All concertgoers, regardless of age, must be ticketed. atlasarts.org.
Sensory Playtime at SW Library
Join SW Library staff in the Children’s Room every Friday from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. for fun sensory play for kids six months to five years old. They’ll provide the materials, just bring your imagination. SW Library is at 900 Wesley Pl. SW. dclibrary.org.
Family Spooky Disco at Dance Place
Dance Place’s Family Spooky Disco is a celebration of dance, costumes and families. This intergenerational dance party is for both the young and the young at heart. This event on Saturday, Oct. 26, 4 to 6 p.m., features a dimly lit spooky room, live DJ, snacks and party games. Get your costume on and get spooky with them. Admission is $15; $40 for a bundle of four; under two, free. Dance place is at 3225 Eighth St. NE. danceplace.org.
Taste of the Harvest at THEARC
On Saturday, Oct. 19, 2 to 8 p.m., join THEARC friends and staff for a Taste of the Harvest festival at 1801 Mississippi Ave. SE, to celebrate the harvest from the Bridge Park Plots and THEARC Farms. All are welcome. Dine with your family and neighbors at the king’s table. Experience tastings from their urban farms that will compliment any meal
University For Kids Opens Navy Yard Location!
Marine Corps Marathon Kids’ Run Registration is Open
The MCM Kids Run is on Saturday, Oct. 26, in Arlington, VA at the North Pentagon Parking Lot. Children ages five to twelve can participate in the onemile run. Pre- and post-event hospitality, activities, entertainment, games and mascots make this an unforgettable event. The Kids Run offers families eight start time options between 9:20 a.m. and 11:40 a.m. Registration is $15. marinemarathon.com/event/marine-corps-marathon/mcm-kids-run.
University for Kids Capitol Riverfront Navy Yard, at 1550 First St. SW, is officially open. They are accepting applications for children aged 6 weeks to 4 years, and are open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. Their new location features a welcoming, eco-friendly design with bright spaces and safe, sustainable furniture. Children receive a well-balanced, nutritious meal daily. Safety is paramount with advanced 24/7 monitoring systems in place. They also offer a bilingual Creative Curriculum and incorporate Spanish immersion. To schedule a tour, visit Universityforkids.com or call Ann Marie at 202-681-4249. Find them on social media @universityforkids. Additional Locations: Capitol Hill: 728 F St., NE 20002 H Street: 806 H St., NE 20002, KU Deanwood: 1350 49th St., NE 20002
that you bring yourself. Enjoy the kids activity corner, chef demos and tastings, live performances, farm tours and s’mores roastings. Register at buildingbridgesdc. org/11th-street-bridge-park/harvest.
Home Depot In-Store Kids Workshops
Kids are invited to come to the Home Depot on the first Saturday of each month between 9 a.m. and noon for free in-person Kids Workshops. While supplies last. homedepot.com/workshops.
Atlas Presents Happy Theater: The Light House
On a little island in a faraway sea, there is a little girl who tends a lighthouse and who never ever smiles. Until one day, when she must set out for the horizon, and beyond…. From the playful minds of longtime pals and award-winning collaborators, Natasha Mirny and Tia Shearer Bassett, The Light House is a unique combination of shadow puppetry, storytelling and interactive theatre. Celebrate the imaginative possibility of everyday objects (a cereal box, a flashlight, a sheet!) as you help Natasha and Tia tell a tale full of silliness and heart. Also…sea creatures. The Light House, best
for children from six to 10, is on Saturday, Nov. 2, at 10:30 a.m. and noon, at the Atlas. 1333 H St. NE. Tickets are $18.25, including fees. atlasarts.org. happytheater.com.
The Sky Tonight at Air and Space
“The Sky Tonight” is shown for free on the First and Third Saturday of each month at 10:30 a.m. Come to the National Mall Air and Space Museum planetarium for a guided tour of what you can see after sunset. Learn how to nd your favorite constellation, recognize a planet and more. The facilitator will answer questions and customize the program based on audience interests. Tickets are only available in person at the planetarium box ofce. airandspace.si.edu.
Something Wicked and Cram Thee with Food at the Folger
On Saturday, Oct. 26, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (ages ve to seven) and 1 to 2 p.m. (eight to fourteen), get spooky with Shakespeare’s ghosts and witches. Join the Folger on fun escapades as everyone explores the play’ hurly-burly elements. Free but registration is required. Costumes are not required but welcomed. On Saturday, Nov. 16, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (ages ve to seven) and 1 to 2 p.m. (eight to fourteen), Cram Thee with Food. Take a bite out of Shakespeare’s words and Elizabethan table manners. Shakespeare’s plays are lled with meals, feasts, and drama-filled dinner parties. Create an imaginary feast based on modern and Elizabethan table manners and act out an interrupted dinner party from Shakespeare’s plays. Free but registration is required. Folger Shakespeare Library is at 201 East Capitol St. SE. folger.edu.
NSO Family Concert: Halloween Spooktacular!
(an annual tradition)
On Sunday, Oct. 27, 2 and 4 p.m., the Kennedy Center Concert Hall transforms into a ghostly sight when ghoulishly attired National Symphony Orchestra musicians, led by conductor Michelle Merrill, celebrate Halloween. Enjoy a concert lled with musical treats from fa-boo-lous new works to spooky old classics. Arrive early for trick-or-treating and a special Haunted Hall Musical PLAYspace. Tickets are $25 to $28. The Halloween Spooktacular! is most enjoyed by ages ve and older. kennedy-center.org.
Maryland Renaissance Festival
Unique among most festivals, including renaissance festivals, the Maryland Renaissance Festival utilizes a story line and progresses each year forward in the timeline of Henry VIII, through all his reign and all six of his wives. This season is set in the year 1537. The king is married to his third wife, Jane Seymour. The royal couple and select courtiers are visiting Revel Grove to enjoy the Harvest Festival. The Maryland Renaissance Festival, a tradition for the entire family, runs Saturdays and Sundays through Oct. 20, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., for weekends of thrills, feasting, handmade crafts, entertainment and merriment in Crownsville, near Annapolis. The 27-acre Village of Revel Grove comes to life each autumn with more than 200 professional performers on ten stages, a 3,000seat arena with armored jousting and streets lled with village characters. Admission is $32 for adults; $18 for ages seven to fteen; under
Montessori
Our diverse and interconnected community of PK3s through 6th graders redefines high-quality education by pairing Montessori with Anti-Bias/Anti-Racist practices. We create a joyful learning environment where children and families flourish and can show up authentically as their true selves.
123 Andrés at the Natural History Museum
André and Christina are DC’s Grammy-winning music duo 123 Andrés, and their songs and concerts get everyone singing and learning in Spanish and English. Join them on an exciting cultural exploration of Latin America through an introduction to language, music, and dance. On Wednesday, Oct. 26, at 10:15 and 11:30 a.m., get set to bailar y aprender (dance and learn) with 123 Andrés at the Natural History Museum’s Baird Auditorium. 123 Andrés is recommended for ages three to eight. Tickets are $9 for adults; $8 for kids; $3 for under two. discoverytheater.org.
Deanwood Library
Voting Diorama
As we approach one of the biggest events and opportunities: Voting, Library Assistant Dawn Fox wanted to make sure DC Public Libraries met community needs. She asked the question: How can Deanwood Library help everyone vote? How do we go beyond the Book? How can we make it easy? Ms. Fox elected to step into the digital arena and make all the information available via QR Codes. How would someone register to vote, where does one work the polls, what are some of the barriers to voting, and more are all the questions you can find answers to at Deanwood Neighborhood Library. Deanwood Library’s Voting Diorama will be on display until Nov. 10.
seven, free. Tickets are sold online only and you are reminded to bring cash, not cards. rennfest.com.
Kids Euro Fest Family Day at MLK Library
Join MLK Library, 901 G St. NW, on Saturday, Oct. 19, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., for the third annual Kids Euro Fest, in partnership with the European Union. Bring the whole family for a day packed with numerous activities, performances, crafts, and workshops from European artists--each dedicated to teaching and entertaining children ages five to ten. Music from Austria, stories from Italy, crafts from Estonia…come take a family-friendly tour of Europe. This year, they’re offering activities relating to one of the European Union’s core values: sustainability. Note: This event
is for children accompanied by their parents or guardians. No children will be admitted without a guardian, and no adult will be admitted without their child.
Attendance is free, but registration is required at dclibrary.libnet.info/event/11875005.
Play Dates at
Natural History
Play Date at NMNH is a dropin offering on Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. to noon, for the early learning audience (ages to five years) and their caregivers and family members. Together, families practice science skills such as observing, communicating, and asking questions through exploring topics in a variety of hands-on and collaborative experiences. Activities provided during the program will be suited for learners of all ages but are
Photo: David Regeles
designed for families with young learners to learn and play together as they continue to develop and grow their science identity as a family. Play Date at NMNH is held in Q?rius, The Coralyn W. Whitney Science Education Center, on the Ground Floor of the museum. Enter through the Constitution Avenue entrance. Q?rius is located on the right as you enter the museum. naturalhistory.si.edu/events/family-programs.
The Frederick Douglass Oratorical Contest
Frederick Douglass learned to give speeches from reading The Columbian Orator, a book he bought for 50 cents when he was an enslaved boy in Baltimore. “Every opportunity I got, I read this book,” Douglass wrote in his 1845 autobiography. Students between the ages of six to eighteen can participate in the Frederick Douglass Oratorical Contest and learn to be a confident public speaker. Applications are accepted from Sept. 16 to Nov. 16. The contest dates are Dec. 3 to 7. You can apply on-line or in person at the Frederick Douglass Visitor Center, 1411 W St. SE. Deaf and hard of hearing students are welcome. For contest information and an application go to nps.gov/frdo.
Art in the A.M. at SAAM
On Tuesday, Oct. 29, 10:30 a.m., children ages one to five and their caregivers are invited to the museum before hours to learn, connect, and create in the galleries. In this program, participants will explore SAAM’s Luce Foundation Center, Eighth and G streets NW, before-hours, with a special focus on Glenn Kaino’s aerial sculpture Bridge. Attendees will then create
their own clay artwork. Space is limited for this program and registration is required at americanart.si.edu.
Second Saturdays for Young Children at the NGA
Beginning Saturday, Oct. 12, at 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. and 11 to 11:45 a.m., this series of free workshops designed for families with young children of five and under explores the power of the arts to promote wellness of the mind and body. Every second Saturday of the month, local arts organizations offer two 45-minute workshops at the National Gallery of Art. This event is free but tickets, available on Sept. 10, are required. nga.gov.
EdFEST 2024
On Saturday, Dec. 14, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., EdFEST, returns to the DC Armory. EdFEST explores the city’s many public-school options (PK3-12) for your child. Representatives from more than 180 DC public schools and DC public charter schools will showcase their programs. Learn about My School DC, the online common lottery. Bring the family and enjoy free services and fun activities from the DC Department of Health, DC Department of Parks and Recreation, DC Public Library, and more. Admission is free. eventsdc.com/events/ edfest-2024.
2024 Back-to-School Guide
The 2024 Back to School Guide has been released. The guide includes updated information on after school and out-of-school time programs, immunization requirements, transportation options and other resources available to families and students. Families can vis-
Kids’ Day at the Horse Show
The Washington International Horse Show Kids’ Day on Saturday, Oct. 26, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (rain or shine), is a free, fun, and educational event created to share the joy of horses with kids. It features pony grooming and rides, face painting, a horseless horse show, a mini pony kissing booth, a chance to meet the steeplechase Shetlands, and special guest horses and ponies. Enjoy the activities outside, then come into the arena to watch the competition in action. All events are free. Parking is free and has easy access to all Kids’ Day activities. Prince George’s Equestrian Center, 14900 Pennsylvania Ave, Upper Marlboro, MD. wihs.org/kids-day.
it backtoschool.dc.gov to access the guide and find ways to start the school year strong.
Bixby the Cat: A Halloween Adventure
When Bixby receives a Halloween card from his friend Wanda the Wolf, he wonders how to celebrate the holiday. What Halloween tradition of his own will Bixby start? Come with Bixby as he meets new friends with some spectacular tricks and treats to share. Along the way, Bixby will learn how to ask for help, express his feelings, and “try try again!” Bixby the Cat shows always feature soft hand puppets, audience interaction, and original music. Now featuring two new original songs in Bixby’s first full-length show, this adventure will be his biggest one yet. Bixby the Cat: A Halloween Adventure is on stage at the Puppet Company, Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, MD., from Sept. 29 to Nov. 5. Tickets are $15; under age two, no ticket required. thepuppetco.org. u
CROSSWORD
“Metal Starts”
Across:
1. Indian state bordering Bhutan
6. Freeze over
11. Biblical bk.
14. E or snail
18. Statesman of India
19. Bouquet ___
20. South African people
22. Hungarian name
23. Grueling test of endurance
25. Eugene resident
27. Be enough for
28. Takes a turn
29. ___ one’s time
31. Hails
32. Sculls
33. “Welcome” site
34. Present
35. Relaxings of tension between nations
39. Veteran
42. Words with “sorry” or “bored”
46. Runs out
47. Firecracker with no fire
48. Utility contributor, in the UK
51. Skirt style
52. Med. specialty
53. Invigorating drinks
54. Baltic, for one
55. Making people annoyed with small payments
61. Football shaped
62. Musician Yoko
63. Railroad
64. Most crafty
67. Mrs. sheep
68. Floor
72. Gridiron gains, abbr.
73. Córdoba cry
74. River roar
75. Guy going out with a fair haired lady
84. Dwarf in ‘’The Hobbit’’
85. Bologna home
86. Ring org.
87. Russian Blue, Havana Brown, etc.
by Myles Mellor
89. One who rents from a renter
91. Day in Madrid
92. Puma, for one
95. Ex-superpower letters
96. A ___ point
98. Game with a 48-card deck
99. 1994 Costner role
102. Student’s stat.
103. Ides rebuke words
104. Nebraska city
106. Rake
108. Heredity carrier
109. Hall of Fame shortstop Aparicio
113. Enticing
115. Tree
118. VIP transport
119. Thing on a string
120. Ashes, e.g.
121. Provide, as with some quality
122. Extended family
123. Guitarist Paul
124. Ships
125. Magnetic induction unit
Down:
1. Aniseed cordial
2. Word repeated after “Que,” in song
3. Try
4. “Rule, Britannia” composer
5. Silent
6. Leaves alone
7. Touch fondly
8. Stages
9. The Tar Heels, abbr.
10. Horse color
11. Shirt brand
12. Positive
13. Sierra Nevada, e.g. 14. Piece of trivia, e.g. 15. Amongst 16. 401(k) cousins
17. Spy thriller writer, Deighton
21. Wrinkly fruit
24. Variegated quartz
26. Ninny
30. ‘’___ be my pleasure!’’
32. Switch positions
33. Pitcher’s place
34. Arrived
35. F.D.R. or L.B.J.
36. Life force
37. Kind of stand
38. Huge
40. TV tease
41. Raja’s queen
43. Pronoun
44. Suitable
45. Option words
47. Physics term
49. Heart chart (abbr.)
50. L.A. hours
52. Letters of commerce
53. Point
56. Large pond fish
57. Sistine Chapel ceiling figure
58. Part of U.N.L.V.
59. Wooden pin
60. Part of a giggle
64. Mediterranean island republic
65. Wings it
66. “Thin Mints” organization (abbr.)
67. Italy’s third-largest island
68. Refrigerator filler
69. Drive a nail aslant
70. Navy ship intro
71. Post grad. degree
73. Leaves off
74. Female hoop group
76. Father’s Day gift
77. BBC rival
78. Anti-discrimination org.
79. Long bone
80. Because of, with “to”
81. Like some appliances
82. Dash gauge, for short
83. Bibliography abbr.
84. Columbus sch.
88. ___ Jeanne d’Arc
90. Walk all over
91. Strips
92. Prosecution’s need
93. Prefix with lace or lock
94. Grammy winner Rawls
97. Parisian water
98. Out of sorts
100. Yellowfin tuna
101. Foul
104. Coup d’___?
105. Cry from a crib
106. Habit
107. Washington’s bills
108. Hidden valley
109. Former top Chinese tennis player
110. Official language of Pakistan
111. Critical hosp. areas
112. “__ A Lady” Tom Jones tune
113. Corporation type
114. Gerard of “Buck Rogers in the 25th Century” 116. Island, for short 117. Solicit
THE LAST SHOT / H Street Festival 2024
photo: Madi Koesler
photo: Madi Koesler
photo: Madi Koesler
photo: Madi Koesler
photo: Madi Koesler
photo: Andrew Lightman
photo: Andrew Lightman
photo: Andrew Lightman
photo: Andrew Lightman
photo: Andrew Lightman
Charming, welcoming 3-lvl home, with modern amenities & historic details, unique among most renovations, located nr. Eastern Mkt, Barracks Row, 2 Metro’s, parks & in-bound for Brent, a home to live in, but with room to grow. Short walk to the LOC, US Capitol, Supreme Ct, and MORE!
• 3 Lvls: 4 BR/ 4 baths / 2 laundries
• 3000+ total sq.ft.
• Large Bedrooms / Luxurious Baths
• Original Wood Flrs, Exposed Brick
• Private Shaded Brick Bk Yd
• MBR Ste w/ 2nd Floor ‘Cafe’ Deck
• Central Air / Radiator Heat
• Tankless Hot Water Heater
• High Ceilings / Ceiling Fans
• Repurposed Beams & Joists
• Walker’/Bikers’ Paradise
• Excellent for Transit
• In-Bounds Brent / nr. 2 Metro’s
• 3 Lvl: 4BR/3.5ba
• 2000+ sq.ft.
• Separate LR/DR
• Renovated Kitchen
• Orig. Wood Floors
• Finished Tile LL with Kitchenette
• Automatic Garage Dr.
• Raised Rear Deck
• 2 Fireplaces
• New TPO Roof
• Solar Panels
Welcoming Tudor home, nr. one of DC’s best schools, very good for commuters & bikers, near shopping, with room for family or friends!
