Hill Rag Magazine – February 2024 by Capital Community News

HILLRAG.COM FEBRUARY 2024

Happy Valentine’s Day Brokerage • Development • Investments

LE SA

CO U N ND TR E AR CT

Listings You Love!

1237 Independence Ave SE

5113 2nd St. NW

Vacant 4-unit in Petworth! Offered $999,000

WE HAVE MOVED!

1423 Ames Pl. NE

Nantucket Investment Renovation! 4 Beds, 3.5 Baths with patio

CO U N ND TR E AR CT

In the heart of Capitol Hill! Offered $880,000

formantpropertygroup.com

406 H Street NE Washington, DC 20002 202.544.3900

5701 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave NE Fixer upper in Deanwood! Offered $325,000

1525 Fort Davis St. SE Fixer upper in Fort Dupont! 2 Beds, 1Bath - end row unit

804 H St. NE #2 Office Space for lease $1,750 monthly

My solution to housing stress: Have a coke and a smile... and let me help you find your place in the world!

February 2024 H 3

did a fantastic job and �� d us like family. We really Selling the Hill... A Way of Life for The Generations ciated it! usly your help getting the rty ready was above and d any of our expectations. e could have done more .” 730/730A/732 11th Street SE Incredible investment opportunity. 4 units. Live in one and rent the other 3!

420 4th Street SE Unique Capitol Hill Jewel

Listing Agent: Don Denton (202)256-1353 Larry Hodgson 202-236-5800 Active - $1,249,000

Listing Agents: Don Denton (202)256-1353 & Topher Cushman(202)327-4682 Under Contract - $1,999,000

TIME TO SELL 946 14th Street SE

Sweet front porch for rockin the evenings away! Listing Agents: Don Denton (202)256-1353 & Topher Cushman (202)327-4682 SOLD - $785,000

��ree� �� eneral’s House

1225 C Street SE

Selling Agent: Don Denton (202)256-1353 SOLD - $800,000

��

’�

648 Mass Ave NE

Listing Agent: Don Denton (202)256-1353 SOLD - $2,000,000

4 H HILLRAG.COM

If you are a prospective seller and plan to sell in the next two weeks or the next two years, it is time to sit down and map out your sales strategy. What is the local market looking for. Staging? Absolutely. Today it makes all the difference. It is a big mistake to put your property on the market empty or with your own old comfortable furniture! A little market fluff? Essential! $15,000 to freshen up the look! Will make all the difference. I can make the process easy, painless and affordable.

1013 I Street SE Unmatched Historic Gem

�� ou�h �arol�na ��e

Call me today at 202-256-1353!

Listing Agents: Don Denton (202)256-1353 & Sam Pastore (202)441-9823 SOLD - $1,535,000

902 South Carolina Ave

Listing Agent: Don Denton (202)256-1353 SOLD - $1,300,000

Don Denton ��n�e Associate Broker

Coldwell Banker Realty ®

�on�ra��

C: 202-256-1353 E: ddenton@cbmove.com

11 4th Street SE The General’s House

Listing Agent: Don Denton (202)256-1353 SOLD - $1,550,000

February 2024 H 5

NO ONE CARES LIKE US

OFF

WITH A MAX OF $150

ANY AUTO REPAIR

*Mention this offer while scheduling your appointment. Valid one per customer. Cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts. Excludes tires and batteries. No cash value. Coupon cannot be used toward a deductible for any service or repair, Valid only at 518 10th St.,NE Washington, DC 20002 location.

Offer valid through 2/29/24

(202) 544-1110 518 10th St NE Washington, DC 20002

MON-FRI 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM SAT 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

We offer a complimentary pick-up and delivery service.

10thstreetautomotive.com 6 H HILLRAG.COM

February 2024 H 7

I N T H IS ISSUE February 2024

special issue

AR T S!

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

LOCAL Calendar

BLACK HISTORY Calendar

THEATER NIGHT: A Curated Review of Theater in the DMV by Matthew McClure

ART AND THE CITY by Phil Hutinet

CAPITOL CUISINE by Celeste McCall

THE LITERARY HILL: Cozy February Reads by Michelle LaFrance

POETIC HILL: J.D. Smith by Sandra Beasley

RETAIL THERAPY: For the Love of H Street by Denzell Spencer

capitol streets Theater Night: A Curated Review of Theater in the DMV by Matthew McClure

New Ownership at 7-River Mart: Cub Reporters Introduce Community to the “Two New Dudes” by Anais Buhr, Avery Coester, Miles Miller-Smith and Hannah Weiss

The Biggest Garden Show Around

Where Are The School Nurses? Cluster Model Leaves School Health Suites Empty by Elizabeth O’Gorek

Potential Pairing of Miner and Maury Elementaries: Still Under Consideration Despite Opposition by Elizabeth O’Gorek

ANCs Consider Applications for Retail Medical Marijuana: Emergency Legislation Allows “Gifting” Shops to Go Legit by Elizabeth O’Gorek

New Ownership at 7-River Mart: Cub Reporters Introduce Community to the “Two New Dudes” by Anais Buhr, Avery Coester, Miles Miller-Smith and Hannah Weiss

Grant Griffith 1938 to 2024: Longtime Capitol Hill Realtor by Hill Rag Staff

Our River: The Anacostia – How Are We Doing on the Anacostia? by Bill Matuszeski

Local Medical Cannabis Licensing Discussed: ANC 6A Report by Sarah Payne

Commissioners Protest Medical Retail Cannabis Application: ANC 6B Report by Elizabeth O’Gorek

New Cannabis Legislation Discussed: ANC 6C Report by Sarah Payne

Amidon-Bowen Parents Complain About Healthcare Staffing: ANC 6D Report by Andrew Lightman

Pepco Land Sale: ANC 7D Report by Sarah Payne

The 11th Street Priority Bus Lane: ANC 8F Report by Andrew Lightman

Parkinson’s Patients Learn to Play Pickleball

by Rindy O’Brien by Pattie Cinelli

Bullletin Board by Kathleen Donner

homes and gardens 81

2023, Wrapping Up Another Great Year: DCs Residential Real Estate – What’s Next? by Don Denton

The Biggest Garden Show Around by Rindy O’Brien

Dear Garden Problem Lady by Wendy Blair

Changing Hands by Don Denton

family life 89

Parkinson’s Patients Learn to Play Pickleball by Pattie Cinelli

The District Vet: Winter Tips for Pet Health by Dan Teich

School Notes by Susan Braun Johnson

Notebook by Kathleen Donner

106

CLASSIFIEDS

110

CROSSWORD

on the cover: My Favorite Hat by Olivia Bruce From January 31st to February 24th, Studio Gallery presents HEAL, a Fellows Group Exhibit curated by Atiya Dorsey. This exhibit features artists Olivia Bruce, Amity Chan, Skyler Henry, and Omari Wilson as they unpack individual identity-centered healing practices through the process of making, as well as collective opportunities to come together. Each artist is undergoing their own metamorphosis, rewriting societal tropes to make room for themselves and room for others to exist exactly as they are in the collective. The process of rewriting can be seen as a process of facilitating healing. Please join us for First Friday on February 2nd from 6-8 pm, an opening reception on February 3rd from 3-5 pm, Third Thursday on February 15th from 5-6 pm, and a closing reception on February 24th from 3-5 pm. Studio Gallery • 2108 R St NW, Washington D.C., 20008 • studiogallerydc.com Another exhibit featuring Olivia Bruce: From January 27th to March 7th, Brentwood Arts Exchange will be exhibiting Chosen Family, curated by Lauren Davidson. This exhibit features artists Olivia Bruce, Bria Edwards, and Omari Wilson; Wesley Clark and Rodney “Buck!” Herring; Austin “Auz” Miles and Angelique Scott. Through their art, viewers are given an intimate look into their friendships which have developed over several years, some from the time of childhood. By digging deeply into historical perspectives of African American life, exploring traditions in the Black community, or remixing objects of adornment to create new meaning, these artists span mediums and aesthetics. They tackle topics of self-identity, Black beauty, and resist single affiliations and simple answers to difficult questions. All the while, they maintain deep bonds that now transcend friendship. They are now family. Please join us for the Artist Talk on February 17 from 2-4pm; The exhibit will close on March 9th. Brentwood Arts Exchange • 3901 Rhode Island Ave Brentwood, MD 20722 • pgparks. com/facilities/brentwood-arts-exchange. www.olivias.studio

Next Issue: March 2

Capital Community News, Inc. Publisher of:

Check out all of our happenings at

www.Mrhenrysdc.com LIVE MUSIC Instantseats.com Every Wednesday Capitol Hill Jazz Jam

EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Melissa Ashabranner • melissa.ashabranner@gmail.com

Editorial Staff

2/1 - cott Hetz Clark

2/15 - Carly Harvey

Managing Editor: Andrew Lightman • andrew@hillrag.com Chief Financial Officer: Maria Carolina Lopez • carolina@hillrag.com Editor & Reporter: Elizabeth O’Gorek • liz@hillrag.com Kids & Family Editor: Kathleen Donner • kathleendonner@gmail.com Intern: Sarah Payne • sarah@hillrag.com

2/2 - Rachel Burns

2/16 - Kevin Cordt

Arts, Dining & Entertainment

2/3 - Sarah Laven Jones

2/17 - Christopher Prince

2/8 - Mathuin Smith 2/9 - Ravita Jazz

2/21 - Capitol Hill Jazz Orchestra 2/22 - Jeff Antoniuk Masterclasses

2/10 - Renee Georges Brunch 2/23 - Time to Eternity Band 2/10 - Jeff Antoniuk 2/24 - Jeff Weintraub 2/29 - Tony Gudell and Sirena Dib

Art: Dining: Literature: Poetry: Music: Theater: Wine Girl:

Phil Hutinet • phutinet@yahoo.com Celeste McCall • cmccall20003@gmail.com Michelle LaFrance • mlafran2@gmu.edu Sandra Beasley • sandrabeasley@earthlink.net Jean-Keith Fagon • fagon@hillrag.com Barbara Wells • barchardwells@aol.com Elyse Genderson • elyse@cellar.com

Calendar & Bulletin Board

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

General Assignment

Ken Cummins • kennethvcummins@aol.com Tom Daniel • tom@rthomasdanielroofing.com Stephanie Deutsch • scd@his.com Anthony Diallo • adike611@gmail.com Maggie Hall • whitby@aol.com Leniqua’Dominque Jenkins• Pleasant Mann • pmann1995@gmail.com Meghan Markey • meghanmarkey@gmail.com William Matuszeski • bmatsedc@gmail.com Elizabeth O’Gorek • Liz@hillrag.com Philip Pannell • philippannell@comcast.net Sarah Payne • sarah@hillrag.com Peter Waldron • peter218@prodigy.net Barbara Wells • barchardwells@aol.com

Beauty, Health& Fitness

Patricia Cinelli • fitmiss44@aol.com Candace Y.A. Montague • writeoncm@gmail.com

Mon-Fri 11am – 1:30am Sat & Sun 10:30am – 1:30am

601 Pennsylvania Ave. SE 10 H HILLRAG.COM

EDUCATION

Capital Community News, Inc. PO Box 15477, Washington, DC 20003 202.543.8300 • www.capitalcommunitynews.com • www.hillrag.com

Wed through Sat evenings. Tickets at

FAGON

MIDCITY YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Real Estate

Don Denton • DDenton@cbmove.com

Kids & Family

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

Homes & Gardens

Catherine Plume • caplume@yahoo.com Rindy 0’Brien • rindyobrien@gmail.com

Commentary

editorial@hilllrag.com

Production/Graphic/Web Design

Art Director: Jason Yen • jay@hillrag.com Graphic Design: Shawn Henderson • shawn@hillrag.com Web Master: Andrew Lightman • andrew@hillrag.com

Advertising & Sales

Account Executive: Kira Means, 202.543.3508 • kira@hillrag.com Account Executive & Classified Advertising: Maria Carolina Lopez, 202.543.3503 • Carolina@hillrag.com Account Executive: Noah Holmes, 202-400-3504 • Noah@hillrag.com

Accounts Payable

Operations Manager: Mariana Heavey, 202-400-3507 • Mariana@hillrag.com

Distribution

Manager: Andrew Lightman Distributors: MediaPoint, LLC Information: distribution@hillrag.com

Deadlines & Contacts

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

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

SAVE! SAVE! SAVE!

es SEU Ava ilab

bat

10% OFF

$25 OFF

LIST PRICE ON ANY EQUIPMENT INSTALLATIONS *Exp. 02/29/2024

Any Service Call *Exp. 02/29/2024

18 Month, 0% Interest Financing

FAST SERVICE FAST INSTALLATION Serving Capitol Hill Since 2001 • Residential & Light Commercial • Roof Top Package Units • Highly Experienced Technicians • Low Prices • Free Estimates On Replacements • Convenient Financing • Licensed, Bonded & Insured

Specializing in:

Equipment: Change outs & Complete Ductwork Systems + High Velocity Systems WE SERVICE & INSTALL ALL MAKES & MODELS

202-333-1310

www.polarbearairconditioning.com Your crew was really clean and tidy. Plus, they were very pleasant to work with.We really appreciated that. – Linda, Capitol Hill

All Credit Cards Accepted February 2024 H 11

12 H HILLRAG.COM

R S A T ! special issue

February 2024 H 13

WHAT’S ON rts a WASHINGTON n o i t i ed

Ain’t Too Proud– The Life and Times of The Temptations

Ain’t Too Proud–The Life and Times of The Temptations is the electrifying, new smashhit Broadway musical that follows The Temptations’ extraordinary journey from the streets of Detroit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. With their signature dance moves and silkysmooth harmonies, they rose to the top of the charts, creating an amazing 42 top-ten hits with 14 reaching number one. The show features such iconic hits as “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination,” “Papa Was a Rolling Stone,” and many more. Nominated for 12 Tony Awards and the winner of the 2019 Tony for Best Choreography, Ain’t Too Proud tells the story of brotherhood, family, loyalty, and betrayal, as the group’s personal and political conflicts threatened to tear them apart during a decade of civil unrest in America. At the Kennedy Center Opera House from Feb. 13 to 18. Tickets are $45 to $179. Recommended for age 12, up. kennedy-center.org. (L–R) Harrell Holmes Jr., Jalen Harris, Elijah Ahmad Lewis, E. Clayton Cornelious, Michael Andreaus from the National Touring Company of Ain’t Too Proud. Photo: © 2023 Emilio Madrid

Frederick Douglass and the Arts Tours

In celebration of the National Black History Theme for 2024: “African Americans and the Arts”, join National Park Service rangers for a special tour of Frederick Douglass’s home, Cedar Hill, wherein visitors can learn about some of the art on display in the home and Douglass’s love for human creative skill and imagination. This tour is offered every Saturday in February at 9:30 a.m. and reservations are required. The Frederick Douglass House is at 1411 W St. SE. Make reservations at nps. gov/frdo/planyourvisit/calendar.

14 H HILLRAG.COM

Romeo & Juliet at Synetic

Set amidst the whirring gears of a giant clock, Shakespeare’s timeless tale of star-crossed lovers unfolds as a bitter family feud sends the pair on a race against an ill-fated destiny. With masterful physicality and choreography, Synetic Theater’s Romeo and Juliet presents a unique and stunningly visual interpretation of a classic story, capturing emotion with every movement. Nominated for six Helen Hayes Awards, Synetic’s wordless adaptation captures the beauty, passion, and heartbreak of Shakespeare’s greatest love story. Romeo & Juliet is at Crystal City’s Synetic Theater, 1800 S. Bell St., Arlington, VA, from Feb. 9 to March 24. Tickets are $35 to $65.

February 2024 H 15

WHAT’S ON W A S H I N G T O N

Sweet Home Café’s Chef’s Table at NMAAHC

During the month of February, the Sweet Home Café at the National Museum of African American History and Culture brings people together to celebrate African American history and culture through food and hospitality. Every Friday from noon to 3 p.m., and extending into the weekends, Sweet Home Café features special menu takeovers by select chefs from across the country. These chefs will tell stories from their heritage through the exquisite menus they curate and execute in the Sweet Home Café kitchen. nmaahc.si.edu. Executive Chef Ramin Coles

Madeline Sayet in Where We Belong at Philadelphia Theatre Company. Photo: Mark Garvin

Where We Belong at the Folger

In 2015, Mohegan theater-maker Madeline Sayet travels to England to pursue a PhD in Shakespeare, where she finds a country that refuses to acknowledge its ongoing role in colonialism, just as the Brexit vote threatens to further disengage the UK from the wider world. In this stirring solo piece, Madeline echoes a journey to England braved by her Native ancestors in the 1700s following treaty betrayals—and forces us to consider what it means to belong in an increasingly globalized world. Where We Belong, presented by Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company and the Folger Shakespeare Library, is at the Folger Theatre, 201 East Capitol St. SE, from Feb. 15 to March 10. Tickets are $20 to $58. folger.edu.

Shakespeare Theatre Company’s National Theater’s Live Screenings Cole Chaney at DC 9

Cole Chaney is sure to be the next big thing coming out of Kentucky. At only 21 years old, Chaney’s catalog may be small, but he already boasts an absolute masterpiece of an album in which he proves wise beyond his years. Mercy, his debut album released in 2021, is a 12-song showcase of Eastern Kentucky, blue collar anthems highlighted by Chaney’s deft lyricism and storytelling. An unknown musician prior to the album’s release, Chaney has since experienced a meteoric rise in popularity. At DC9 Nightclub, 1940 Ninth St. NW, on Friday, Feb. 23, 7:30 to 10 p.m. (doors at 7 p.m.). Admission is $17 to $20. dc9.club. 16 H HILLRAG.COM

Through March 3, filmed live from Britain’s most exciting stages, National Theatre Live brings you the thrill of drama, the joy of romantic comedies, and the excitement of sold-out award-winning productions with your fellow theatre lovers in STC’s Klein Theatre, 450 Seventh St. NW. Kicking off the month of screenings is Romeo & Juliet, directed by STC’s own artistic director Simon Godwin, and featuring Jessie Buckley and Josh O’Connor. The lineup also includes Good with David Tennant, Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s Fleabag, Vanya with Andrew Scott, and a one-day-only screening of King Lear with Ian McKellen. In addition to the five NT Live titles, the 10th anniversary production of Titanic the Musical, filmed on the West End, will be screened. Tickets are $20. shakespearetheatre.org.

February 2024 H 17

WHAT’S ON W A S H I N G T O N

Atlas INTERSECTIONS Festival

The Atlas INTERSECTIONS Festival is a performing arts festival that presents work that impacts our society, culture, and world by informing, inspiring, educating, and entertaining. INTERSECTIONS is about presenting excellent art that inspires a connected community, engages artists and audiences alike, and creates a vibrant neighborhood, city, and world. They are interested in unique perspectives and art that connect us to the many facets of our humanity. INTERSECTIONS is as early as Feb. 18 and as late as April 27. The Atlas Performing Arts Center is at 1333 H St. NE. Find the schedule at atlasarts.org.

Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC

On Saturday, Feb. 17, get a taste of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC and its small ensembles in an immersive evening of art, music, and dance. Stroll through multiple performances on a guided tour featuring GMCW, Seasons of Love, Potomac Fever, Rock Creek Singers, GenOUT Youth Chorus, and 17th Street Dance. Songs include “The Rainbow Connection,” “The Times They are A-Changin’,” “Sanctuary,” and “Sunday ” (from Sunday in the Park with George.) Timed entry between 4:30 PM – 8:00 PM. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H Street NE, DC. Tickets and info at GMCW.org

Curling & Cocktails at The Wharf Capitol City Symphony: Battles Within, on Feb. 24, 7 p.m., is an emotionally charged concert portraying the journey of veterans’ post-conflict as they navigate the challenges of reintegration into civilian life.

18 H HILLRAG.COM

On Wednesdays, Feb. 14 and 21, 7 to 10 p.m., join in the fun for a free, friendly game of curling at the Wharf Ice Rink on Transit Pier. Curling marries hockey and shuffleboard for a low-pressure evening on the ice—no skates needed. Games begin at 7, 8 and 9 p.m. Beginners are welcome and encouraged. You will be outside for the duration of the event, so dress appropriately and wear flat soled shoes— sneakers are best. Participants must be registered at wharfdc.com. Each registration is for you and up to three teammates (four of you total). If space and time allow, they will accommodate walk ups. Registration is free and anyone can watch. wharfdc.com.

The Lehman Trilogy at STC

From Feb. 22 to March 24, meet the Lehman brothers—immigrants building an American dream that crumbles into a chaotic nightmare for future generations. With a cast of three actors covering 160 years of family struggles, achievements, and missteps, this winner of the 2022 Tony Award for Best Play is a powerhouse cautionary narrative for our times. Heralded by The New York Times as a “captivating…feat of storytelling,” The Lehman Trilogy examines the double-edged sword of capitalism and personal choices that created the largest financial crisis in US history so far. Tickets are $54 to $119. Shakespeare Theatre Company at Harman Hall, 610 F St. NW. shakespearetheatre.org.

Riverside Baptist Church 699 Maine Avenue SW Washignton, DC 20024 GET TICKETS! February 2024 H 19

Photo: Karli Cadel

WHAT’S ON W A S H I N G T O N

The Kooks, The Vaccines and Daisy the Great at The Anthem

The Kooks are an English pop-rock band formed in 2004 in Brighton. Their music is influenced by the 1960s British Invasion movement and postpunk revival of the new millennium. The Vaccines are an English indie rock band, formed in London in 2010. As Daisy the Great, Kelley Nicole Dugan and Mina Walker make folk-inflected indie rock that spans a multitude of moods, capable of being clever, devastating, or both simultaneously, spanning harmony-laden pop to powerhouse balladry. The Kooks, The Vaccines and Daisy the Great are at The Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW, on March 13, 8 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.) Tickets are $45 to $75. theanthemdc.com.

Washington National Opera’s Songbird at the KC (The hungriest bird sings the sweetest song.)

The carefree Parisian nightlife of Offenbach’s La Périchole finds its match—Prohibition-Era New Orleans—in this reimagined, jazz-infused comedy. New Orleans in the 1920s is roaring with decadence, but singers and lovers Songbird and Piquillo are down on hard times. As Mardi Gras arrives, the Mayor disguises himself and lures Songbird to be his mistress with the promise of food and lodging. Now Songbird must choose between financial security and true love. What’s a hungry artist to do? Songbird is at the Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater from March 9 to 23. Tickets are $69 to $185. kennedy-center.org.

Mosaic’s Nancy at the Atlas

The Kooks. courtesy The Anthem.

It’s 1985 in Washington, DC and two women are trying to steer their futures— Nancy Reagan from the White House, orchestrating her husband “Ronnie’s” political career according to daily astrological trends, and Esmeralda, a Navajo mother advocating for her community. Their worlds converge over an unbelievable discovery—Nancy has a direct familial connection to Pocahontas. Strange history collides with 80s nostalgia in this epic story that cuts through the veneer of shoulder pads, neon, and Van Halen with irreverent heart and deep empathy. Awardwinning playwright Rhiana Yazzie makes her East Coast premiere with a very DC play about ancestry and ambition. Nancy is at the Atlas, 1333 H St. NE, from March 28 to April 21. Tickets are $53 to $70. atlasarts.org/events/mosaicnancy-2023.

Ladysmith Black Mambazo at Strathmore

Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s music is rooted in the intricate rhythms and harmonies of their native South African musical traditions. Their a cappella performances have touched audiences for over 50 years, earning them extensive praise around the world. The group’s rich harmonies gained global recognition after their collaboration with Paul Simon on his album Graceland. However, the group was already extremely well-known in South Africa, where they were recognized as cultural ambassadors to the world by Nelson Mandela. Ladysmith Black Mambazo spreads a message of peace, hope, and love at every concert through melody and dance. Ladysmith Black Mambazo is at the Strathmore Music Center, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD, on Friday, March 9, 8 p.m. Tickets are $28 to $78. strathmore.org. 20 H HILLRAG.COM

February 2024 H 21

WHAT’S ON W A S H I N G T O N

Pierre Bonnard, Dining Room on the Garden, 1934–35, Oil on canvas, 50 x 53 1/4 in. Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York, NY Solomon R. Guggenheim Founding Collection, By gift © 2023 Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York.

Bonnard’s Worlds at the Phillips

From March 2 to June 2, Bonnard’s Worlds reunites some of Pierre Bonnard’s most celebrated works spanning his entire career from museums across Europe and the United States, as well as many less-exhibited works drawn from private collections worldwide. Governed neither by chronology nor geography, but by measures of intimacy, the exhibition transports the visitor from the larger realms in which Bonnard lived—the landscapes of Paris, Normandy, and the south of France—to the most intimate interior spaces of his dwellings and his thoughts. The Phillips Collection, 1600 21st St. NW, is open daily, except Monday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission for adults is $20; seniors, $15; military, $12; free for 18 and under. phillipscollection.org.

Unknown Soldier at Arena

Cleaning out her grandmother’s home, Ellen Rabinowitz discovers the photograph of an anonymous soldier tucked away in a box of keepsakes. And so begins Unknown Soldier, a sweeping, elegiac musical from Daniel Goldstein and the late Michael Friedman on a woman’s journey to unearth the secrets of her family’s past... and which

Webster’s Bitch at Keegan

When their Editor-in-Chief gets caught using some unexpected profanity, the employees of Webster’s Dictionary find themselves at the center of an internet uprising over gender and obscenity in the age of social media. As office politics collide with ambition, morality, and lexicography, the future of the English language hangs in the balance. Webster’s Bitch, a dark comedy about vulgar words and the people who define them, is at the Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church St. NW, from April 6 to May 5. Tickets are $50. keegantheatre.org.

Hester Street at Theater J will chart her future. Unknown Soldier is at Arena Stage’s Kreeger Theater, 1101 Sixth St. SW, from March 29 to May 5. Tickets are $56 to $95. arenastage.org.

Illustration by Loveis Wise

22 H HILLRAG.COM

The world premiere of Hester Street—the theatrical adaptation of the beloved 1975 film by Joan Micklin Silver— marks the largest production Theater J’s stage has seen in years. Hester Street depicts the uplifting journey of Gitl, a young Jewish immigrant from Eastern Europe, who arrives with her son to meet her husband Jake in the tumult of the late-19th century Lower East Side. Separated from his wife and the provincial limitations of his upbringing, Jake has fully embraced his new American life—one that has little in common with Gitl’s old-time ways. Hester Street is an unforgettable show, awash in the humor, heartbreak and hope essential to the Jewish immigrant experience. Theater J, 1529 16th St. NW, from March 27 to April 21. Tickets are $69.99 to $90.99. edcjcc.org/theater-j.

SAve the D Date SAvethe ate National Pizza Day 09 09 Sweet Tooth DeSsert Tour 09 10 11 Mardi Gras WEEKend 17 22 NATIONAL PIZZA DAY

Celebratory Specials on Barracks Row Celebratory Specials on Barracks Row

MARDI GRAS WEEKEND

February 9 -13 Purchase yourFebruary $29 Passport Sidewalk Parade 9 & 10 for one dessert at 20 participating restaurants, February 10-19

SUPER BOWL VIEWING PARTY Celebratory Specials on Barracks Row

February 17-21. NATIONAL MARGARITA DAY17 & 18 Sidewalk Parade February

Thursday, February 22 - 25 Take a stroll down historic 8th Street Barracks Row and taste delicious margaritas from some of the best restaurants in the city.

at Eastern Market MAR Blossoms Experience BLOSSOMS AT EASTERN MARKET EXPERIENCE MAR 20 20 Celebrating the 150th Year Anniversary of Eastern Market

Celebrating the 150th Year Anniversary of Eastern Market

visit easternmarketmainstreet.org & barracksrow.org VISIT EASTERNMARKETMAINSTREET.ORG & BARRACKSROW.ORG 1528 Oates Street NE Elegance, Comfort, and Modern Living Awaits You! Refined Living in a 3 Bed + Den, 3 Bath Home

• Bright & Spacious: Expansive windows in every room, including bathrooms. • Premium Features: Classic finishes, ample closets, Rockwool insulation, Elfa closet systems. • Outdoor Spaces & Parking: Enjoy private outdoor areas and convenient parking. • Quality Construction: New build with attention to detail.

Preview Now – These Units Won’t Last!

CONTACT US TODAY FOR YOUR PRIVATE TOUR Add your brand of style! Offers made before completion will be given design options for customization.

Anna-Marie Ashe

Office: (202) 370-7910 Direct: (717) 332-1369 E: Ashe@Area-RealEstate.com 200 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001

February 2024 H 23

Chiarina’s Enchantment: Ravel, Arensky, Esmail, Boulanger

WHAT’S ON W A S H I N G T O N

Annapolis First Sunday Arts Festivals

Reena Esmail’s Saans (Breath), composed as a gift for her best friend’s marriage, invites a contemplative exhalation, and is paired with the classic love story of Daphnis and Chloe, transcribed from the beloved Ravel orchestral work. Boulanger’s shimmering colors delight, and the program concludes with the epic melodicism of Anton Arensky—whose writing bridges the likes of Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff. Chiarina’s Enchantment: Ravel, Arensky, Esmail, Boulanger performance is on March 17, 7:30 p.m., at St. Mark’s Capitol Hill, 301 A St. SE. General admission tickets are $30; 18 and under, free. chiarina.org.

From May through November, thousands of visitors enjoy shopping along West Street on the first Sunday of the month, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., in historic downtown Annapolis at what is one of Maryland’s premier arts festivals focused on vendors who make and sell their own art. Enjoy café dining, live music and 100+ vendors. innerweststreetannapolis. com/first-sunday-arts-festival.

Folger Consort’s Ovid’s Metamorphoses: Music and Mythology We Are Guardians, directed by Rob Grobman and Edivan Guajajara

DC Environmental Film Festival (aka DCEFF)

DCEFF has been the premier Festival showcase of environmental films since 1993. Each March in Washington, DC, they bring the world’s largest green film festival to massive in-person audiences. Since 2020, they have also focused on extending their reach beyond DC to the entire world with their virtual Festivals and evergrowing Watch Now catalog. Festival dates this year are March 21 to 30. Didn’t have a chance to see every film you wanted at their 2023 Festival? Many of them are free to stream on their site, while others are now available for digital rental at dceff.org/watchnow-2023. Subscribe to their news and viewing schedule at dceff.org/ wa chnow/?date=2023#subscribe.

Yola at The Atlantis

Ovid’s Metamorphoses, an inspiration to composers over the centuries, is the basis for incandescent cantatas by JeanPhilippe Rameau, including his retelling of the epic of Orpheus and Eurydice. This is music that encompasses graceful and simple vocal melodies with virtuosic embellishments and inventive harmonies in a wonderful dramatic style. Joining a featured soprano will be a quartet of violin, traverso, viola da gamba, and harpsichord, performing works by Marais and Leclair, and featuring one of Telemann’s masterful Paris Quartets. Folger Consort’s Ovid’s Metamorphoses is performed, April 12 to 14, in the Folger Theatre, 201 East Capitol At. SE. Tickets are $20 to $45. April 12 to 14.

Yola is a six-time Grammy nominated artist, songwriter, and actor who has been proclaimed as one of the most exciting and innovative artists in music today. Yola is a member of The Recording Academy’s Black Music Collective, and to celebrate Yola’s impact and influence on music, her guitar was included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s Right Here, Right Now exhibit. Her new EP entitled My Way releases in early 2024. Yola is at The Atlantis, 2047 Ninth St. NW, on April 16, 6:30 p.m. Admission is $50. theatlantis.com. 24 H HILLRAG.COM

Ancestral Spaces: People of African Descent at Tudor Place A special installation & guided tour Feb 6 - April 21 | Tuesday - Sunday

TUNNICLIFF’S TAVERN Full Menu of All Your Favorites Available!

OPEN FROM 11AM-2AM M-Th 10AM-2AM Sat & Sun Serving brunch every Saturday and Sunday.

10AM-3PM

TAKEOUT & DINING! TUNNICLIFFSTAVERN.COM I 202.544.5680 222 7th Street SE Washington D.C., 20003

1644 31st Street, NW | www.tudorplace.org February 2024 H 25

WHAT’S ON W A S H I N G T O N

Je t’aime Georgetown!

IN Series’ The Return of Ulysses:

Song of My Father

and the ing of the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution 2024 is the 60th anniversary of the sign that flict con a United States in Vietnam. It was start of official military action by the ndwou e ver. The young souls that fought wer would change the face of America fore the besible, and their return home was only ed most acutely in ways that were invi story of the sets ra in. Monteverdi’s second ope ginning of an epic struggle to live aga IN Sey. sse homecoming from the epic The Ody Trojan War hero Ulysses’ traumatic rinco that piece to life with an expansive work ries brings this rarely heard master s, and interviews taken with Vietnam veteran from ted craf text lish Eng new a porates mix of y 18 Monkeys, bringing their unique the Thai contemporary dance compan teverdi’s Mon . Asian Kohn dance to the production modern and traditional South-East era nam sioned arrangements of popular Viet score will be joined by newly commis American drigals and the words of Vietnamese songs in the style of Monteverdi ma l ensementa rum inst accompanied by a period poet Ocean Vuong. An all-star cast is Theater, rce Sou of Ulysses is performed at the ble from around the world. The Return inseries.org. 1835 14th St. NW., from May 11 to 27.

The annual Georgetown French Market, April 26 to 28, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., is a popular open-air market originally inspired by the outdoor markets in France, It has become a tradition in DC, and one of the biggest shopping events of the year for Book Hill small businesses. More than 35 local boutiques, antique stores, restaurants, salons and galleries display their discounted wares for up to 75% off. Neighborhood restaurants also offer food and drink specials, including lunch items from an outdoor grill, a sale on French wines, and pastries, croissants, and macarons from French bakery Patisserie Poupon. On Saturday and Sunday, the French Market also features live music, a balloon artist, roaming stilt-walkers, a unicyclist, pop-up flower and book sales, and more. georgetowndc.com.

LEFT: Tamara Lindeman of the Weather Station

Belle & Sebastion and The Weather Station at The Anthem

With a legacy spanning three decades, Belle & Sebastian have truly earned their place in music history. The unique, unpredictable, and fiercely loved band have a plethora of accolades and plaudits to their name including winning the “Best Newcomers” BRIT in 1999, selling out the Hollywood Bowl, and contributing to the soundtrack for an array of films (Juno, The Power of Nightmares). Ignorance, the forthcoming album by The Weather Station, begins enigmatically; a hissing hi hat, a stuttering drumbeat. Hear both on May 2, 8 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.) at The Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW. Admission is $45 to $75. theanthemdc.com.

Inaugural DC Boat Show at National Harbor

The DC boating season kicks off on May 5 to 7 when over 200 boats will be on display at National Harbor. The event brings to the DC area the first boat show easily accessible by the region’s boating community. The Potomac Water Taxi will provide transportation from the Wharf, Georgetown, and Old Town. General admission tickets start at $40 per day; $70 for a two-day pass; and $100 for a three-day pass. VIP Tickets are $175 per day and come with many benefits including a catered food tent, open bar with specialty cocktails, parking pass, round trip water taxi ticket, access to cigar roller, swag bag, and more. wharflifedc.com. 26 H HILLRAG.COM

Tudor Place Tells the Stories of Enslaved Individuals

From Feb. 6 to April 21, Tudor Place Historic House & Garden presents Ancestral Spaces: People of African Descent at Tudor Place, a special installation and guided tour that explores the lives of individuals and families of African descent who lived and worked at Tudor Place. Tudor Place has been reimagined to show the historic house from the perspective of the enslaved and free people for whom it was both home and workplace. Using artifacts, maps, photographs and audio recordings, visitors will explore how these people found ways to practice resistance and activism while navigating the irreparable traumas that came from the institution of slavery. Tudor Place, 1644 31st St. NW. tudorplace.org

February 2024 H 27

28 H HILLRAG.COM

Local Calendar

CELEBRATING 75 YEARS

Brought to You by

on Capitol Hill serving our community with the country’s best selection of fine wines, spirits, and beer.

Schneider's of Capitol Hill

Alexandre Diop: Jooba Jubba, l’Art du Defi, the Art of Challenge at the Rubell. Based in Vienna, Franco-Senegalese artist Alexandre Diop (b. 1995, Paris) uses discarded objects to create work that raises questions pertaining to sociopolitical, cultural and gender issues. Wednesday to Friday, pay as you wish; Saturday and Sunday, $15 for adults; $12 for seniors and $10 for students and kids. DC residents always free with ID. Rubell Museum DC, 65 I St. SW. rubellmuseum.org/dc.

WINE. BEER. SPIRITS. TRADITION. FEBRUARY MIXED CASE SPECIAL!

6 Romantic Valentine’s Day Reds, 4 Vibrant and Complex Whites, 1 Pretty in Pink Dry California Sparkling, 1 Dry Sparkling Cava. Retail Price: $465.88 Sale Price: $304.88 Mixed Case Price: $279.99 more than 40% Off Retail! Le Mensonge d’État [The Lie of the State], 2021, mixed media on wood, 47 3/8 x 67 7/8 x in. (120.5 x 172.5 cm), acquired in 2021.

Mindplay at Arena. Through March 3. Mindplay invites audiences to an unforgettable experience infused with intrigue and mystery. Mentalist Vinny DePonto guides participants on a jaw-dropping, interactive journey as he reads their minds while revealing his own. $51 to $95. Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SW. arenastage.org.

Elements shines a light on Cooper’s tumultuous tenure as principal of Washington, DC’s historic M Street School where she fought to keep Black education alive, despite the racism, gossip and sexism that threatened to consign her efforts to obscurity. Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SW. arenastage.org.

Wednesday Musical Trivia at Wunder Garten. Wednesday is Musical Trivia Night at Wunder Garten with host Brianna. Bring your friends and test your knowledge to win prizes and glory. Registration is from 6 to 7 p.m.; starts at 7 p.m. Wunder Garten, 1101 First St. NE. wundergartendc.com.

Rock the Rink at The Wharf. Feb. 17, 6 to 10 p.m. Join fellow hockey fans at The Wharf to Rock the Rink with the Washington Capitals. Skate at The Wharf Ice Rink and enjoy a DJ, Caps gear giveaways, and more. They’ll also broadcast the Capitals’ away game on the bar TV at the Caps Cantina. Throughout the day, fans wearing Capitals gear receive $5 off admission to The Wharf Ice Rink. wharfdc.com.

Tempestuous Elements at Arena. Feb. 16 to March 17. Born into slavery in North Carolina, Anna Julia Cooper was a visionary Black feminist and educator in the late 19th/early 20th centuries, and only the fourth African American woman to earn a doctoral degree. Tempestuous

Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC: Exhibitions. Feb. 17 with timed entry from 4:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. Experience all of GMCW and its small ensembles in a moveable feast of

VINTAGE

WINE

RETAIL

SALE

2021

De Lancellotti Vineyard Famiglia Pinot Noir

$59.99

$29.99

2017

Ashfall Cabernet Sauvignon

$69.99

$39.99

Detroit Tigers Club Series Reserve Napa Cabernet Sauvigno

$19.99

$9.99

2017

Kesner Kings Pinot Noir

$59.99

$34.99

2019

Occasio Livermore Valley Grenache

$24.99

$18.99

2018

Cascina Adelaide Barbera d’Alba Vigna Preda

$29.99

$24.99

2018

Morgan Double L Chardonnay

$39.99

$29.99

2019

Lagaria Pinot Grigio Dolomiti

$24.99

$18.99

2022

Bichot Pouilly-Fuisse

$44.99

$39.99

2021

Sohler et Fils Riesling Lieu-dit Fruehmess

$45.99

$24.99

Cursive Signature Sonoma County Sparkling Brut Rose

$24.99

$16.99

2019

Almena Cava Brut Organic

$19.99

$14.99

300 MASS AVE. NE WASHINGTON, DC 20002 VISIT CELLAR.COM CALL 202.543.9300

February 2024 H 29

Mardi Gras at the Wharf. Saturday, Feb. 10, 3 to 7 p.m. on District Pier. The Wharf is bringing New Orleans to DC. Come celebrate Mardi Gras with a community-wide extravaganza featuring a spirited parade down Wharf Street with floats, live music and beads, a dance party with live music on District Pier, and a special fireworks finale at 6:30 p.m. wharfdc.com/mardigras.

UPCOMING PROGRAMS STUDIO ARTS

Master Chef: Featuring Jerome Grant, Inaugural Chef, National Museum of African American History and Culture’s Sweet Home Cafe

Contemporary Watercolors Workshop Saturday, February 17, 11:00am - 2:00pm Saturday, February 24, 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Introduction to Linocut Printmaking Workshop

Saturday, February 24, 2:30pm - 5:00pm

Snow Day Sip ’n Paint!

Saturday, February 24, 5:30pm - 7:30pm

CONCERTS

Cherry Blossom Special - In Concert Sunday, February 4, 5:00pm

Global Sounds on the Hill: Featuring Alash, Masters of Traditional Tuvan Instruments

Thursday, February 22, 7:00pm

Global Sounds on the Hill: Featuring Mayan Kaqchikel singer and songwriter Sara Curruchich

Friday, February 23, 7:00pm

COOKING CLASSES & TASTINGS

Long Lunch: Asian Dumplings with Chef Mark Haskell

Friday, February 2, 11:30am - 1:00pm

Chinese Lunar New Year of the DRAGON 4722 Feast Featuring Wine Expert & Culinary Strategist Janet Cam Saturday, February 3, 11:00am - 2:00pm SOLD OUT

Master Chef: The Creative Baker Featuring Celebrated Pastry Chef Padua “SugaChef” Player

Sunday, February 4, 11:00am - 2:00pm

Mardi Gras Celebration Dishes with Chef Mark Haskell

Thursday, February 8, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Valentine’s Dinner - Date Night with Marianne Tshihamba

Saturday, February 10, 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Kitchen 101: Knife Skills with Chef Wendi James

Tuesday, February 13, 6:00pm - 7:30pm SOLD OUT

Classic Italian: Eggplant Parmigiana with Chef Mark Haskell

Tuesday, February 20, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

On the Noodle Road with Jen Lin-Liu: Lantern Festival Feast Sunday, February 25, 11:00am - 2:00pm SOLD OUT

LECTURES & CONVERSATIONS

Talk of the Hill with Bill Press Featuring Journalist and Author Martin Walker Wednesday, February 21, 7:00pm

Hill Center presents: DISH! The Story Telling Cocktail Hour Thursday, February 29, 7:00pm

ONGOING PROGRAMS

Armed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP) Basic Drawing Techniques Busy Bees: Music & Art Playgroup Contemporary Watercolors French Courses: Various Levels District Flow Yoga Frontlines: Infant and Child CPR Gottaswing Meditation in Capitol Hill Mr. Mike’s Music Together Opera Starts with Oh! - Opera Lafayette Piano Lessons with Gordon Tenney Profs & Pints DC Shakespeare Theatre Company Spanish Courses: Various Levels Studio One Dance Super Soccer Stars Tai Chi Chuan Tippi Toes Dance Warrior Fusion Karate

Programmatic support provided by the Capitol Hill Community Foundation and the DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities.

sound, harmony, and dance. Stroll through the multiple performances on a self-guided tour featuring GMCW, Seasons of Love, Potomac Fever, Rock Creek Singers, GenOUT Youth Chorus, and 17th Street Dance. $20 to $45. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. atlasarts.org. Glade Dance Collective: NACHMO DC 2024 Sampler Showcase. Feb. 18, 5 p.m. The NACHMO DC Sampler Showcase presents a selection of local choreographers who have created a new work in one month during the NACHMO January Challenge. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. atlasarts.org. Sing Out Piano Bar and Open Mic with Gay Man’s Chorus. Feb. 21 and March 20; 7:30 to 11 p.m. Come out to sing with live pia-

30 H HILLRAG.COM

no accompaniment or just enjoy the music. Free admission. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. atlasarts.org. Talk of the Hill with Bill Press Featuring Journalist and Author Martin Walker. Feb. 21, 7 p.m. Walker is a former foreign correspondent reporting from the USSR, USA, Europe and Africa for The Guardian. He is the author of the delightful, internationally acclaimed mystery series featuring Bruno, Chief of Police. $10. Hill Center is at 921 Pennsylvania Ave, SE. hillcenterdc.org. Global Sounds on the Hill at Hill Center. Feb. 22, 7 p.m., featuring Alash, Masters of Traditional Tuvan Instruments. Believing that traditional music must constantly evolve, the musicians subtly infuse their songs with western ele-

ments, creating their own unique style that is fresh and new, yet true to their Tuvan musical heritage. $20 to $35. Feb. 23, 7 p.m., featuring Mayan Kaqchikel singer and songwriter Sara Curruchich. There is no better way of introducing Sara Curruchich than to say that being a woman in Guatemala is an act of resistance, and being a Mayan Kaqchikel woman as well as an artist is not only a political statement, but an act of defiance. $30 to $35. Hill Center is at 921 Pennsylvania Ave, SE. hillcenterdc.org. RAPTURE, BLISTER, BURN at St. Mark’s. Feb. 23 to March 9. After grad school, Catherine and Gwen chose opposite paths. Decades later, each woman covets the other’s life, commencing a dangerous game. With searing insight and trademark wit, this comedy was a finalist for the 2013 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. St. Marks is at 301 A St. SE. stmarksplayers.org. Philadelphia 11 Film Screening and Discussion. March 3, 12:30 p.m. In an act of civil disobedience, a group of women and their supporters organize their ordination to become Episcopal priests in 1974. The women are harassed, some lose friends, and others are banned from stepping on church property. Meet the women who built a movement that transformed an age-old institution and challenged the essence of patriarchy within Christendom. Pay-what-you-can; the suggested donation is $10 to pay for the screening, the rest will be donated to the House of Ruth. Film and discussion are at St. Mark’s, 301 A St. SE. houseofruth. org. u

Sergio Abarca, CFP® Financial Advisor

(301) 347-7196 Sergio.Abarca@edwardjones.com Crystal.Norman@edwardjones.com

“High quality design and preservation framing are our top priorities” Serving Capitol Hill since 1984 Custom designed mats • Wide selection • Work done on premises 513 11TH ST. SE (EASTERN MARKET METRO)

202.544.7577 www.newmangallery.com ROTAT I N G E X H I B I TS O F LO C A L A RT I S TS

Building Smart from the Start

File Current Taxes File Past Due Taxes IRS Issues? Providing the highest quality tax representation and consultation to individuals and businesses

Interior Renovation and Space Planning Whether remodeling, new construction or simply rearranging your current layout we handle complex and simple projects with equal care. We integrate the design and construction disciplines, so all your needs can be addressed with one point of contact. We keep costs in check and projects on time.

La Strega Accounting, Inc.

Marina L. Martin EA, MBA, NTPI®

Enrolled Agent – Federally Licensed to represent Taxpayers before IRS and all States Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA)

301 642 5182 o

derek@thomasdesignconsultants.com

CHECK OUR GALLERY AT: thomasdesignconsultants.com

www.lastregaaccounting.com

202-251-3907 (c)

lastregaindc@gmail.com February 2024 H 31

Black History calendar Georges Adeahbo’s Create to Free Yourselves: Abraham Lincoln and the History of Freeing Slaves in America

The Smithsonian National Museum of African Art partnered with President Lincoln’s Cottage in 2022 to commission an installation by Beninois artist Georges Adéagbo. Created with the goal that the artwork might join the museum’s collection, this installation is Adéagbo’s vision for us. With Create to Free Yourselves at the National Museum of African Art, 950 Independence Ave. SW, Adéagbo invites each of us to consider our individual reflections of Abraham Lincoln and the unfinished journey toward emancipation for all. africa.si.edu.

Billy Dee Williams

Black History Month at Miracle Theatre

Feb. 6, “Selma”; Feb. 11, “Hidden Figures”; Feb. 15, “Loving”; Feb. 20, “Summer of Soul”; Feb. 25, “Harriet”. Miracle Theatre is at 535 Eighth St. SE. There is a public parking lot on Eighth Street, SE between I Street and Virginia Avenue. themiracletheatre.com.

Tudor Place Tells the Stories of Enslaved Individuals

From Feb. 6 to April 21, Tudor Place Historic House & Garden presents Ancestral Spaces: People of African Descent at Tudor Place, a special installation and guided tour that explores the lives of individuals and families of African descent who lived and worked at Tudor Place. Tudor Place has been reimagined to show the historic house from the perspective of the enslaved and free individuals for whom it was both home and workplace. Using artifacts, maps, photographs and audio recordings, visitors will explore how these individuals found ways to practice resistance and activism while

“What Have We Here?” with Billy Dee Williams

Feb. 15, 7 p.m. At this Black History Month talk at MLK Library, the iconic Billy Dee Williams will discuss his life and new memoir “What Have We Here?: Portraits of a Life”. MLK Library, 901 G St. NW. dclibrary.org.

US Capitol Heroes of Civil Rights Tours

Every day except Sundays at 3 p.m. What do Sojourner Truth, Frederick Douglass and Charles Sumner have in common? They all fought for an end to slavery and the equality and freedom of all Americans. Hear about their extraordinary lives and how they shaped the path from slavery to civil rights. The tour includes Emancipation Hall and the Old Senate Chamber. Duration: 45 minutes. visitthecapitol.gov. Sojourner Truth, born Isabella Baumfree in the later 1790’s, was an American abolitionist and activist for AfricanAmerican civil rights, women’s rights, and alcohol temperance. Truth was born into slavery but escaped with her infant daughter to freedom in 1826. After going to court to recover her son in 1828, she became the first Black woman to win such a case against a White man. The Basics. Artis Lane, Bronze. 2009 Emancipation Hall, U.S. Capitol Visitor Center. Courtesy Architect of the Capitol

32 H HILLRAG.COM

navigating the irreparable traumas that came from the institution of slavery. Tudor Place, 1644 31st St. NW. tudorplace.org.

Live! at the Library: Rev. Robert B. Jones, Sr. Feb. 15, 7 to 8 p.m. The Rev. Robert B. Jones, Sr. comes to the Library to showcase his deep love for traditional African American and American music within his live performances that interweave timeless stories with original and traditional songs. Thomas Jefferson Building Coolidge Auditorium, 10 First St. SE. loc. gov/live.

Live! at the Library: Major Jackson with Ron Charles

Feb. 15, 7 to 8:30 p.m. In celebration of Black History Month, Major Jackson, the prizewinning author of “Razzle Dazzle: New & Selected Poems” and host of “The Slowdown” podcast, will talk with Washington Post Book Critic Ron Charles about his work. Thomas Jefferson Building LJ119, 10 First St. SE. loc.gov/live.

Tempestuous Elements at Arena

Feb. 16 to March 17. Born into slavery in North Carolina, Anna Julia Cooper was a visionary Black feminist and educator in the late 19th/early 20th centuries, and only the fourth African American woman to earn a doctoral degree. Tempestuous Elements shines a light on Cooper’s tumultuous tenure as principal of Washington, DC’s historic M Street School where she fought to keep Black education alive, despite the racism, gossip and sex-

1220 KIRBY ST NE

1312 MASS AVE NW #610

507 SEWARD SQ SE #4

515 SEWARD SQ SE #4

708 5TH ST NE #1

11 2ND ST NE #101

2BR/1.5BA - $3,450

3BR/2BA - $5,125

1BR/1BA - $2,500

2BR/1BA - $3,450

2BR/1BA - $2,395

STUDIO - $1,750

Property management and leasing –

Michael Frias

That is ALL we do.

Owner / Broker / Property Manager

406 H St. NE, Second Floor

Tiber Realty Group specializes in placing high-quality residential and commercial tenants on Capitol Hill and throughout the city.

(202) 355-6500

tiberrealtygroup.com Michael@tiberrealtygroup.com

If you need to fill a vacant unit, Call Tiber today!

Life’s adventure is brimming with firsts, each carrying a unique blend of excitement and trepidation. In the heart of your home and family, we stand ready to accompany you on this journey, ensuring that every first becomes a joyous moment and a reassuring step forward.

LEARNING

BUILDING

ENRICHING

NURTURING

SAVORING

Senate Hart Building Room SH-118 | Washington, DC 20510

ussfcu.org/CU4L February 2024 H 33

The International Spy Museum presents James A. Lafayette, Revolutionary War Spy

Feb. 23, 4 to 5:30 p.m. James A. Lafayette was a spy for the Patriots in Virginia during the fight for American Independence. Working closely with Marquise de Lafayette, this enslaved man undertook “important commissions” and gathered “intelligences from the enemy’s camp.” This talk will explore how we know about James and his work as a spy for the Patriots—from speculation to documentation. SW Library, 900 Wesley Pl. SW. dclibrary.org.

Portrait of James A. Lafayette. Courtesy: U.S. Army

ism that threatened to consign her efforts to obscurity. Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SW. arenastage.org.

Walk with Dr. Woodson: A DC Tradition

TAE KWON DO TRADITIONAL KOREAN STYLE AGES 4 AND UP OPEN ENROLLMENT

JOIN ANY TIME, FOR ANY LENGTH OF TIME. 6TH & EYE ST., NE. - PARKING • MASTERGUTMAN@GMAIL.COM 34 H HILLRAG.COM

Feb. 17, 11 a.m. Walk in the footsteps of the creator of Black History Month Dr. Carter G. Woodson from the Mary McLeod Bethune Council House NHS through the Logan Circle and Shaw neighborhoods. Actor Darius Wallace portrays Dr. Woodson and highlights noted figures and landmarks relating to Black History on the tour. The program concludes with a

Thomas Landscapes

Over 25 Years of Experience

REDEFINING BEAUTY. ONE CLIENT AT A TIME.

short performance at Shiloh Baptist Church. (90 min, outdoor portion: 30 min). The distance is about ½ mile. The walk starts at the Mary McLeod Bethune Council House NHS, 1318 Vermont Ave. N.W. nps.gov/mamc.

Black History Month Trivia Night

Feb. 21, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Join other participants in the New Books area at Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library for trivia night. Teams of 1, 2, or 3 players will tackle a total of 9 topics and 45 questions over 3 rounds. The team with the highest point total at the end of the night will take home a prize. No registration required. MLK Library, 901 G St. NW. dclibrary.org.

Full-Service Landscape Design & Maintenance • Installation, arbors, retaining walls, walkways, lighting, and water features • Patios, rooftop gardens, townhomes, single-family homes • Trees & shrubs, formal & informal gardens • Custom Masonry, Fencing, and Ironwork • Restoration and Enhancement

DEREK THOMAS / PRINCIPAL

Certified Professional Horticulturist Member of MD Nursery Landscape and Greenhouse Association

301.642.5182 | 202.322.2322 (OFFICE)

WWW.THOMASLANDSCAPES.COM

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW!

Live! at the Library: An Evening with Kerri Greenidge

Feb. 22, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden will be in conversation with leading historian Kerri Greenidge about her new book, “The Grimkes: The Legacy of Slavery in an American Family.” Thomas Jefferson Building LJ119, 10 First St. SE. loc.gov/live.

Black History Revealed: Uncovering Black History in Your Family Tree

Feb. 24, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., join library staff for a three-part genealogy workshop series, designed to guide you on how to start building your family tree, apply advanced research strategies, and uncover the lives of your ancestors. MLK Library, 901 G St. NW. dclibrary.org. u

Top Dentist: Washingtonian Magazine ~ DC Magazine ~ Best of Modern Luxury DC

Top Solo GP Invisalign Provider in SE/SW DC COMPREHENSIVE COSMETIC ESTHETIC MINIMALLY INVASIVE FAMILY DENTISTRY

Sheila Samaddar, DDS, FACD, FPFA

President, District of Columbia Academy of General Dentistry National Spokesperson, Academy of General Dentistry

General Preventative Dental Care Same Day Crowns Smile Design & Makeovers Advanced Technology for Patient Comfort

202.488.1313 1313 South Capitol St., SW SouthCapitolSmileCenter.com SouthCapitolSmileCenter

DrSheSam

February 2024 H 35

r e t a The Night A Curated Review of Theater in the DMV

Las Hermanas Palacios: L to R: Victor Salinas, Carolina Reyes, Catherine Nuñez, Yaiza Figueroa. Photo: Daniel Martinez.

by Matthew McClure

ntro: February is the month of love. As plush crimson boxes of chocolate fill grocery store shelves, it can be easy to forget that love comes in many forms: The achingly unreciprocated love for the past, the love that results from being vulnerable and sharing trauma with a stranger, or the fraying love that binds a family together. This month’s column examines theater that dissects love in all its varied colors and textures. Read on for our curated selection.

On Right Now Las Hermanas Palacios, GALA Hispanic Theatre Showing 5 Feb – 25 Feb www.galatheatre.org It’s 1980s Miami and the Medellín Cartel runs the city. Like Batman’s fictional Gotham, the streets run with blood as a rising tide of illegal drugs fuel an excess of violence, murder and flashy gangster lifestyles. In the midst of this mayhem, over 100,000 Cubans arrive on Miami’s shores. This is the setting for Cuban-American playwright, author and academic Cristina García’s new work Las Hermanas Palacios. García and Director Adrián Alea’s shared love for Russian author Anton Chekhov’s early 20th Century play Three Sisters – and García’s stint as Bureau Chief in Miami for TIME Magazine in the mid 1980s – were the sparks that inspired this tale of the love between siblings that yearn for a fabled homeland that never really existed. “The play was inspired by Chekhov’s Three Sisters, in which there’s a lot of love and a fair amount of betrayal that skewers and undermines the love and solidarity of this otherwise close family. I tried to keep close to those ideas.” explains García as she sketches out the relationship between Cuban-Americans Olga, Maria, Irin36 H HILLRAG.COM

ita and their brother Andrés in the play. “The various colors of love that each of the three sisters and the brother represent are braided sometimes uneasily and sometimes quite naturally. That chafing against what they are navigating as immigrants is a challenge to all of them. Each of them deals with the love and the nostalgia and the future that is bearing down on them in very distinct ways.” A deep, unrequited love and longing for a rosy past embroidered by memory is the link with Chekhov’s original work that García says herself and Alea worked on developing in Las Hermanas Palacios. “We felt in writing the script that it was a conversation not just with Chekhov but with all immigrants, with all people experiencing dislocation and trying to reconcile their pasts with their present.” Written by García in English and translated into Spanish by Achy Obejas, García’s play couldn’t be more topical as a storm of social and political debate centred on Ameri-

ca’s immigration and border policies currently rages across party lines.

In The Spotlight Next to Normal, Round House Theatre with Barrington Stage Company Showing 24 Jan – 25 Feb This month, Barrington Stage Company’s Alan Paul is directing the Round House Theatre’s production of Brian Yorkey and Tom Kitt’s Pulitzer Prize-winning musical Next to Normal. Originally staged in 2008, the play is an intimate portrayal of mental illness and its impact on a suburban American family. We sat down with Tracy Lynn Olivera and Kevin Stephen McAllister – playing wife Diana and husband Dan Goodman respectively – to chat about how the theme of love winds its way through this perennially relevant piece of theater. How does Next to Normal portray family love? Tracy: I think love is a choice. You have

February 2024 H 37

Shutter Sisters: Tonya Beckman (L) and Deidra LaWan Starnes (R) in Shutter Sisters, by Mansa Ra. Directed by Eric Ruffin. Photo: Teresa Castracane.

to choose it all the time. I think Dan especially makes that choice over and over again. Kevin: The play is both the good side and the messed up side of family love. I think the idea of family is so layered. The show is about how you navigate different personalities, different energies, different medications, different levels of attraction. Does Diana and Dan’s relationship exemplify an ideal of married love? Kevin: I think what the play does really well is that it gives you a glimpse of what brought them into marriage, and then it leaps forward and shows you what can happen over time. Dan and Diana represent a lot of marriages. Dan sings about a promise he made to stay true, but he never says ‘I still love you.’ They’re a good example of what can happen if you don’t speak your truth in a marriage. In what way does the play highlight America’s love for medical interventions? Tracy: I think medicine can be magical. It can be completely life changing. But as a society we tend to throw medicine at problems instead of getting to the root of the issue. In this particular instance, that’s what happens with Diana. Kevin: I used to teach in the public school system. I used to deal with a lot of kids, and their answer right away was ‘I have ADHD. I’m on Ritalin.’ You know they’re taking something because their personality is gone. They’re not pro38 H HILLRAG.COM

cessing. Sometimes the answer is to just jump to medication. This play comes down heavily on what we’re putting into our bodies and why. Why does Next to Normal continue to have such relevance to contemporary audiences all over the world? Kevin: Mental Health has become such a major issue in the last five or six years, especially since the pandemic, so I think people are paying more attention to self. This show still resonates because it really is big on choice. Tracy: This play is about people fighting really hard to be OK. Everyone in this piece is trying to get to the same thing, which is to love and be loved. That’s the beauty of this to me.

Catch Before Closing Shutter Sisters, 1st Stage Showing 1 Feb – 18 Feb www.1ststage.org The transformative power of love is on full display in playwright Mansa Ra’s Shutter Sisters, a story about two women – Mikal and Michael – who embark on new chapters of life as one becomes an empty-nester while the other attends her adoptive mother’s funeral. Ra’s work is informed by the concept of Black Radical Love, or the notion that collective love and care between Black people can be an act of resistance. Love, believes Ra, is the most powerful weapon in our arsenal. Deidra LaWan Starnes plays Mikal, who has more in common

with Michael than may initially appear. “The complexity of these women’s lives is what makes them so similar in their journeys. Their journeys are sparked by wanting this love, this sense of being and belonging,” says Starnes. “I feel that what these women so desperately want is roots and security and stability.” Tonya Beckman agrees that her character Michael is dealing with issues that mirror those of Mikal. “On the surface, Mikal and Michael seem like very different women but they have so many commonalities. They are more alike than they are different.” Shared love, care and commitment – the central tenets of Black Radical Love – seem to have characterized the working process leading up to opening night, as both Beckman and Starnes attest. “It’s been very easy to be open and honest.” Beckman says. “It’s a group of such kind, loving people. There was a sense of trust immediately. It allows for conversation that usually takes much longer to arrive at.” Starnes concurs: “It can take a while before people get vulnerable, but I feel like we jumped in and threw our hearts into this from the first day.” These powerhouse actors are on stage together for the first time in this production – despite sharing a long professional history – so audiences can look forward to the type of chemistry, vulnerability and love that only comes from performers being familiar with each other. u

G E T YO U R B E A N S DELIVERED

660 Pennsylvania Ave SE 1718 14th St. NW Union Market www.peregrineespresso.com

Order With Joe’s Coffee App

JOE.COFFEE February 2024 H 39

ART CITY and the

by Phil Hutinet

ven within the vibrant spectrum of blue. 2118 8th Street, NW Washington, DC 20001. Hours: Friday–Sunday from 12p.m. to 6 p.m. Phone: 202-232-0203. HEMPHILL Willem de Looper “Paintings 1972 - 1975” Through March 2 – hemphillfinearts.com In contrast to the exhibition “Willem de Looper: Paintings 1968 1972,” presented two years ago at HEMPHILL, “Paintings 1972 1975” marks a notable evolution Leonard Jewler “Bathed in Shadows”. Image courtesy of the artist. in de Looper’s artistic approach. Kathryn Mohrman, “Moroccan Man Wearing a Djellaba”, photography, 22” x 18”. Image courtesy of the artist This transformation sets him and depth. 434 K Street NW, Washington DC, 20001. apart from his Washington Color Hours: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. -5 p.m. and by appointSchool peers, a group largely known for maintaining Foundry Gallery ment. 202-234-5601 consistent painting methods throughout their careers. Kathryn Mohrman “Two Blue Cities” In 1973, post initial acclaim, de Looper and his Through February 25 – foundrygallery.org Hill Center Galleries wife Frauke embarked on a cross-country journey Embark on a chromatic journey through the 2024 Regional Juried Show across the United States. The expansive deserts and lens of Kathryn Mohrman’s camera in her Through May 4 – hillcenterdc.org towering mountains of the American Southwest prosolo exhibition titled “Blue Cities Unveiled.” The Hill Center Galleries: 2024 Juried Exhibition, cufoundly impacted the artist, proving a revelation for him The exhibition delves into the significance of rated by Amy Cavanaugh, Executive Director of Maryas a DC resident who emigrated from Europe. blue as it intertwines with nature, spirituality, land Arts Place (MAP), unveils a diverse collection of artUpon returning to DC, de Looper his practice and social stratification. ists hailing from DC, Maryland, and Virginia. This juried transformed significantly. Confining his color palette, The artist elucidates, “The color blue showcase offers a platform for selected artists to comhe adopted a new technique—utilizing paint rollers to joins water and sky with the land,” symbolpete for cash prizes and five honorable mention awards. create horizontal bands of layered colors. This shift izing a harmonious connection between the The top three winners stand to receive significant recmarks the inception of his subsequent phase, defined by elements. Drawing inspiration from Jodhpur thematic separations into earth tones, in India and Chefchaouen in Morocco, both foliage, and sky colors. The division cities steeped in rich history, the exhibition between these bands captures the unravels the tales behind their azure facades. dramatic essence of nature’s boundIn Jodhpur, blue becomes a cultural marker, aries, ranging from severe to subtly a symbol of prosperity, spirituality, and an anindistinguishable. The larger paintcient caste-based hierarchy. Chefchaouen, on ings from 1973 to 1976 mirror the the other hand, reflects the diaspora of Spanoverwhelming scale he experienced ish Jews during the Inquisition, bringing with encountering with Southwest for the them a tradition of adorning structures with first time. the calming hue. “Paintings 1972-1975,” stands “Come with me to experience the visual as a distinct phase in the artist’s caexcitement of these two blue cities,” Mohrman reer or what the HEMPHILL calls invites the viewer, promising an immersive “a second act,” affirming the artist’s Willem de Looper, “Laguna”, November 1973, acrylic on canvas, 59 3/4 x 119 encounter with captivating narratives woinches, Courtesy of HEMPHILL Artworks. enduring commitment to innovation 40 H HILLRAG.COM

“Folding Processional Icon in the Shape of a Fan”, Ethiopian, late 15th century (Stephanite), ink and paint on parchment, thread. Image courtesy The Walters Museum.

ognition, with first place securing $1000, second place earning $750, and third place awarded $500. Additionally, the exhibition includes honorable mention certificates, further acknowledging outstanding artistic contributions. Amy Cavanaugh, the esteemed juror, brings over a decade of experience as the Executive Director at MAP. Her leadership has been instrumental in transforming MAP into a cultural hub within downtown Baltimore, extending its services beyond the visual arts. Having steered MAP back to its original home, the Bromo Arts and Entertainment District, Cavanaugh’s influence has been pivotal in fostering a thriving artistic community. With a background as Vice President and COO of ARCH Development Corporation and a co-founder of Honfleur Gallery, Cavanaugh’s multifaceted expertise adds depth to the curation of this eclectic juried exhibition. 921 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20003. Contact Hill Center for access hours. 202.549.4172 The Walters Art Museum “Ethiopia at the Crossroads” Through March 3, 2024 Performances: February 24, 2024, 2–4:30pm thewalters.org/exhibitions/ethiopia-crossroads The Walters Art Museum is hosting an exceptional exhibition, “Ethiopia at the Crossroads,” delving into Ethiopia’s artistic traditions spanning over 1,750 years. This groundbreaking display, the first of its kind in America, show-

cases more than 220 objects from the Walters’ renowned Ethiopian art collection, supplemented by loans from American, European, and Ethiopian sources. Positioned at the crossroads of Europe and the Middle East in the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia boasts diverse climates, religions, and cultures, with over 80 ethnicities and religious groups. The nation’s rich artistic production historically supported Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Examining Ethiopia’s art as a reflection of its remarkable history, the exhibition explores themes of cross-cultural exchange and the human role in creating and moving art objects. It highlights Ethiopia’s unique position as the only African nation never colonized and an early adopter of Christianity. The artworks on display span various mediums, including painted Christian icons, church wall paintings, healing scrolls, bronze crosses, basketry, stone and wood sculptures, illuminated manuscripts, and contemporary pieces. The exhibition unveils the movement of art objects across seas and continents, emphasizing Ethiopia’s interconnectedness with the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, Mediterranean Sea, Indian Ocean, and the Nile River. Contemporary Ethiopian artists, like Wosene Worke Kosrof and Aïda Muluneh, present works alongside historical pieces, illustrating the ongoing influence of Ethiopia’s cultural heritage. Tsedaye Makonnen, a guest curator and Ethiopian American multidisciplinary artist, offers insights into the tangible impact of historic artworks on contemporary artists, fostering a deep connection between past and present. “Ethiopia at the Crossroads” invites visitors to explore the multifaceted cultures and histories that converge in this vibrant African nation. 600 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21201. Hours: Wednesday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Thursday, 1–8 p.m., Friday-Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Phone 410-547-90 Phil Hutinet is the founding publisher of East City Art, DC’s visual art journal of record. For more information visit www.eastcityart.com u

File Current Taxes File Past Due Taxes IRS Issues? ITIN Providing the highest quality tax representation and consultation to individuals and businesses

La Strega Accounting, Inc.

Marina L. Martin EA, MBA, CAA, NTPI®

Enrolled Agent – Federally Licensed to represent Taxpayers before IRS and all States Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA)

www.lastregaaccounting.com

202-251-3907 (c)

lastregaindc@gmail.com February 2024 H 41

Capitol

Cuisine

by Celeste McCall

Located near Union Station, the Dubliner, with its lively bar scene, has been around for a half century. Courtesy The Dubliner

an you believe the Dubliner Pub, located at 4 F St. NW, is a half century old? Founded by Danny Coleman on St. Patrick’s Day in 1974, the venerable saloon follows a long tradition of Gaelic watering holes. Coleman’s Irish immigrant father opened his Coleman’s saloon in 1933 atop Tipperary Hill in Syracuse, NY. (It was no coincidence that 1933 was the same year that probation ended its 12-year grip on thirsty Americans.) Several years ago, Danny Coleman passed the Dubliner’s reins to his son Gavin. (Early on, the Dubliner’s co-owner was Irish-born Hugh Kelly, who sold his share to Coleman in 1978 to open The Irish Times next door in the former Luau Hut. Kelly died in 2022; his son Brendan now owns the Irish Times.) Husband Peter and I first darkened the Dubliner’s handsomely paneled doors on April 2, 1974—less than two weeks after its grand opening. As we recall, the lower-level bar was almost empty as we sipped a Guinness—or was it an Irish coffee? We then asked: “Will this place make it?” Did it ever! Over the decades, we continued to eat, drink, and enjoy traditional Irish music at the oftenpacked Dubliner, as well as at the Irish Times next door. The Dubliner became so successful that

42 H HILLRAG.COM

en pot pie and roast chicken. At our brunch, our waiter Jack regaled us with nostalgic tales of the Dubliner’s rich history. Hoisting our spicy bloody Marys, we toasted a half-century of success. Open daily, The Dubliner Pub is located at 4 F St. NW. For hours and more information visit www.dublinerdc.com.

Bullfeathers Still Going Strong A hearty shepherd’s pie is among menu favorites at the venerable Dubliner.

Coleman eventually purchased the old Commodore Hotel and renamed it Phoenix Park Hotel (after the spacious Dublin public park). Among the Dubliner’s many celebrity guests was President Barack Obama who “dropped by for a pint” on St. Paddy’s Day in 2012. Fifty years later, in spite of the Covid shutdown and other challenges, the Dubliner is still going strong. We recently enjoyed a delightful Sunday brunch in the cozy upper-level dining space. Peter enjoyed one of the best shepherd’s pies he’s had in DC, he said, while I consumed a delicious, generous corned beef on rye. Among other menu Dubliner favorites are fish-and-chips, Irish beef stew, corned beef and cabbage, chick-

And speaking of venerable restaurants and pubs, the other day Peter met a colleague for lunch at Bullfeathers, 410 First St. SE. Founded in 1979 by Gordon King, Bullfeathers— named after President Teddy Roosevelt’s favorite expletive—ranks among Capitol Hill’s longest reigning culinary establishments. Thanks to its proximity to the US Capitol, the 45-year-old watering hole is especially popular with Members of Congress, Hill staffers, lobbyists, neighbors, visitors, and tour guides and tourists. Bullfeathers is conveniently situated across the street from the Capitol South Metro station. Heading the menu are two-fisted burgers, crispy calamari, assorted wings, grilled salmon and fried chicken. At Peter’s recent lunch, he savored excellent fish-and-chips (cod with fries), served with a piquant lemon-dill aioli in lieu of the usual tartar sauce. Fries were nice and crisp, coleslaw was savory—not too gloppy--and the accom-

February 2024 H 43

board for several years; various code violations and red tape have slowed things down. Pupatella (“little doll” in Italian) is expected to specialize in red and white Neapolitan pizzas, salads, arancini (fried stuffed rice balls), paninis, and eggplant parmesan. Several other Pupatella outlets are scattered around the Washington area. For updates visit www.pupatella.com.

Joey’s on Barracks Row Joey’s has opened at 527 Eighth St. SE, where Cava used to be. For hours, menu and more information visit www.barracksrowjoeys.com.

A recommended Bullfeathers dish is fish-and-chips, accompanied by coleslaw. A lighter Bullfeathers option is the Greek salad, replete with feta cheese and other goodies.

Gone

panying malt vinegar added just the right amount of punch. He thoroughly enjoyed the hearty, good-value dish. His vegetarian friend ordered French onion soup and a Greek salad—replete with tomatoes, cukes, pepperoncini and plenty of feta cheese. All in all, Bullfeathers offers better than average pub grub. Lunch for two (sans alcohol) came to $52, before tip. Service was prompt and efficient. For Bullfeathers hours and more information visit www.bullfeathersonthehill.com.

Among other menu options are burritos, enchiladas, tacos, chimichangas and house combinations. There’s also mariscada, (shellfish combo), grilled salmon, chicken and mar y tierra (surf and turf). Margaritas lead the drink lineup, as well as other cocktails, wine and beer. Los Caballeros is open daily for lunch and dinner, plus a Monday-Friday happy hour. For more information visit www.loscaballerosdc.com.

The H Street corridor has lost two establishments recently. DC Harvest, 517 H St. NE, departed late last year after nearly a decade in business. The restaurant was known for its bottomless brunches, vegan eggplant BLTs and three-cheese fritters. Nearby, Pursuit Wine Bar, 1025 H St. NE, has poured its last glass of vino. Like neighboring DC Harvest, Pursuit was a 10-year neighborhood fixture. (However, in 2019 Pursuit had moved a few blocks west to a bigger space.)

Old to New–Tex Mex

More Pizza, Hopefully

Ciao for Now!

On Capitol Hill’s Senate side near Union Station, coming soon if not already is Pupatella Pizza, 301 Mass. Ave. NE. The former site of Romeo & Juliet and before that, the Indian restaurant White Tiger. This Pupatella has been on the drawing

As we do every year, Peter and I are spending the A margarita in the dead of winter? Definitely! Los month of February in the warm and sunny (We Caballeros Restaurant has opened at 308 Pennhope!) climes of Florida. See you in April! u sylvania Ave. SE, where La Lomita Dos used to be. On a snowy mid-week afternoon, Peter and I checked out the Tex-Me newcomer. The bright, welcoming dining room was fairly busy and many diners were speaking Spanish. I ordered my margarita, which arrived in a handsome, salt-rimmed glass. As we noshed on tortilla chips, guacamole and salsa, I decided on shrimp quesadillas (other choices were steak, chicken or spinach). Accompanied by guacamole, sour cream, shredded lettuce and pico de gallo, the half dozen triangles were full of plump shrimp and plenty of gooey cheese. Peter’s fajitas arrived sizzling, as usual. The breast meat strips were moist and Sizzling fajitas (steak, chicken or shrimp) head the succulent, but unfortunately, they were menu at Los Caballeros. smothered with too many green peppers, onions and oddly, celery. The hearty dish arrived with a side of refried beans and Mexican rice. Los Caballeros is a delightful Tex-Mex newcomer on “The Avenue.” 44 H HILLRAG.COM

SIGN UP FOR YOUR FREE SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOP TODAY Are you an aspiring or existing business in the District? The Small Business Resource Center (SBRC) is here for you!

Valentine’s Day Open onyour Tuesday, Februarytoday 14 with a la Make reservations Cart service and a special Valentine’s menu.

by visiting www.cafeberlin-dc.com

Make your reservations today 322 Massachusetts Ave, NE by visiting www.cafeberlin-dc.com

Washington, DC 20002 322 Massachusetts Ave, NE 202.543.7656

Washington, DC 20002 202.543.7656

WEBINAR: LEARN HOW TO BECOME A CERTIFIED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (CBE) Wednesday, February 7, 2024 • 10:00 am Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/63696

WEBINAR: ALL THINGS NON-PROFIT Thursday, February 8, 2024 • 10:00 am Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/63706

WEBINAR: BUSINESS FOUNDATION SERIES: THE BUSINESS MODEL CANVAS Thursday, February 8, 2024 • 2:00 pm Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/64117

WEBINAR: BUSINESS FOUNDATION SERIES: THE LEAN BUSINESS PLAN Thursday, February 22, 2024 • 2:00 pm Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/64118

SBRC ONE-ON-ONE CALL SESSION: STEPS TO OBTAINING A BUSINESS LICENSE Monday – Friday by appointment between 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events

SBRC ONE-ON-ONE CALL SESSION: “TALK BUSINESS AFTER HOURS” Wednesdays by appointment between 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events

MEET IN PERSON MONDAY - 1.1 BUSINESS SESSION Mondays by appointment between 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events

Small Business Resource Center (202) 442-4538 | dlcp@dc.gov

February 2024 H 45

th e

Literary Hill Cozy February Reads

by Michelle LaFrance

ty and perception. Did I mention there is a twist? twist imagines a future where accelerated DNA s the days get longer and If you enjoy a mind-bending trip, as well as grapreconstruction allows people to permanently a hint of spring scents the pling with the past, love, loss, and ethics, you’ll change their physical characteristics. Set in 2058 air, this month’s column is enjoy this short, savvy read. Agemo’s story was Japan, the story takes a shockingly literal turn for those of us who are still first published in Silver Blade Magazine. when the protagonist changes his facial features to game for an afternoon under Black Sheep magazine can be purchased onappease his traditional mother-in-law. Set against a blanket with a good book. line at https://darkhorsesmagazine.mystrikingly. the backdrop of the anniversary of Fukushima, I begin with an interview featuring Richard com/. Fans of Agemo’s short fiction may apprecicomplete with simulations and undercurrents of Agemo, longtime resident of Capitol Hill, who ate his blog about all things Shakespeare: https:// societal anxiety about scientific advancements, writes ghost and sci-fi stories. His stories often www.richardagemo.com/shakespeares-mirror. the short story manages to take on racial and culinvolve his deep interest in the consequences of tural divides, identity, and the line between realiscientific innovation gone awry, especially as techBetween Heaven and Hell is Gray nologies and tricks-of-the-mind overlap For supporters of self-published fiction, in questions about reality. I review Agethis retelling of The Picture of Dorian mo’s newest short story, below. Gray, by J.R. Masterson (the pen name Michelle LaFrance: What first atof DC native José Morgan) can be purtracted you to writing speculative fiction? chased through major online booksellRichard Agemo: Growing up, I was ers. The story follows Daniel Goddard, a into monsters, model rockets, and readhandsome and sociable young man who, ing Bradbury, Clarke, and Le Guin, so as the book jacket summarizes, “embarks when I began writing, I naturally gravion a globe-spanning quest to claim his tated to speculative fiction. blood-soaked legacy of unimaginable MLF: Speculative fiction is known for power and wealth.” The novel pulls Osits imaginative backgrounds, plots, and car Wilde’s story of craven vanity into characters. What inspires you and how do the present. Between Heaven and Hell is you develop your initial ideas into a story? Gray is the author’s third novel. MasterRA: Inspiration can come from anyson notes that the book was a “true lathing ranging from a zoo animal to an bor of love” and that he believes the book obituary to a historical event, followed does Mr. Wilde proud. by, what if ? Next, I’ll decide about plot, Richard Agemo J.R. Masterson characters, and scenes, then dive in! Belinda Lifts Her Voice/ MLF: What do you hope people will Belinda Eleva Su Voz take away from your work? In this bilingual, moving, and socialRA: I’m a Shakespeare addict. One ly aware new release from Shout Mouse theme I love from his work, which I hope Press, authors Luisa Orellana-Castillo, readers grasp in mine, is how people can Brizel Martinez Cruz and Camila Melabe tricked into seeing things that aren’t ny De la Luz Villegas, bring us the story really there, leading them to jump to conof Belinda, a young girl of Mexican and clusions with unforeseen consequences. Salvadoran heritage. Horrified by plans for gentrification in her neighborhood February Reviews and mourning the loss of her Aunt Tia, Change of Light Belinda finds her voice, singing to pro(reprinted in Black Sheep Magazine) test the erasure and displacement of her Richard Agemo’s sci-fi romance with a

46 H HILLRAG.COM

Poetic Hill J.D. Smith by Sandra Beasley Luisa Orellana-Castillo

Brizel Martinez Cruz

community, as well as to share her self-love, pride-of-place, and courage. Heartwarming illustrations by Romeo Montero complement and deepen the story told. Suitable for readers aged 4 to 8 years. All Shout Mouse Press titles can be purchased via www.shoutmousepress.org.

Historic Congressional Cemetery Is Calling All Bookworms! Tombs and Tomes Bookfest Congressional Cemetery is hosting its first book fest, on Sunday, April 21, 2024, 11 a.m. - 4.p.m. If you are a vendor, an author, a book-related vender, a crafts person, or a baker, they invite you to submit your application before February 16, 2024. (If selected, a $50 vendor fee will be required to reserve your spot.) Tombs and Tomes Book Club Congressional Cemetery’s book club

Camila Melany De la Luz Villega

meets every other month on the second Tuesday in the historic chapel on the cemetery grounds. Tombs and Tomes tends toward reading non-fiction books, especially books that feature the macabre. Recent reads have included: The Angel Makers: Arsenic, a Midwife, and Modern History’s Astonishing Murder Ring, Madhouse at the End of the Earth: The Belgica’s Journey into the Antarctic Night, and Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers. In March 2024, the book club will discuss A Tomb with a View: The Stories and Glories of Graveyards. Readers will find other book clubs and book-related events tailored to every taste at East City Books (visit: eastcitybookshop.com), Solid State Books (visit: solidstatebooksdc.com) and Little District Books (visit: littledistrictbooks.com). Find your community and discuss good books! Michelle LaFrance is Associate Professor of English at George Mason University. She teaches creative nonfiction, life writing, and civic writing at the Hill Center and blogs about writing, her upcoming writing classes, and writing retreats at writinglostriver.org. u

J.D. Smith has lived in the District since 2000 and

near the Southwest Waterfront since 2005. From 1981 to 1985 he attended American University, where his poetry was much improved by studies with professors including Henry Taylor and Myra Sklarew. An editor at an international organization, he has published six poetry collections and the 2022 fiction collection Transit, and he is currently working on a novel-in-verse. John’s poems often address the intersection of individual lives and the historical moment, parPhoto: Paula Van Lare ticularly the contrasts between the official Washington in which he works and the unofficial, less tidy city of D.C. in all its complexity. This poem appears in The Killing Tree (Finishing Line Press, 2016). WASHINGTON MEMOIR Now the truth can be told—it’s about me. Since my birth, all who’ve known me would tout me. The top firms all needed to scout me. One man put opponents to rout: me. At Vail, who caught the most trout? Me. (Here’s a picture at prayer of devout me.) Wealth found—with prestige and clout—me, Whose counsel was always sought out? Me. Only fools, knaves and cynics would doubt me. No wonder I can’t help but shout ME! 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

February 2024 H 47

perfect Joseph makes the $4 for e latt la nil va

Retail Therapy For the Love of H Street by Denzell Spencer

Sidamo Coffee – Sip, Relax, Repeat My first stop was Sidamo Coffee (417 H St NE) a cozy haven for coffee enthusiasts. As you step into this charming and quaint coffee shop, the rich aroma of freshly brewed beans welcomes you. The friendly baristas are ready to craft your perfect latte from freshly ground Ethiopian coffee. Sida-

n the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, sometimes all we need is a little retail therapy to lift our spirits. I especially needed some RT (retail therapy) as I pulled myself out of the slump that snowy weather tends to invoke. Join me as I explore the simple pleasures of buying a latte at Sidamo Coffee, searching for the perfect bicycle helmet at The Daily Rider, and discovering engaging conversational games at Solid State Booksall on H Street.

48 H HILLRAG.COM

mo Coffee is not just about the coffee; it’s about the experience. Take a moment to savor your coffee, enjoy the vibrant art on the wall, and let the soothing atmosphere wash away the stresses of the day.

Loren showing off his favorite helmets

Nissa holding her favori game, Nothing to See Hete re,

$16

The Daily Rider – Safety and Style on Two Wheels Next on my journey was The Daily Rider (600 H St NE), a haven for cycling enthusiasts and safety-conscious riders. Browsing through the collection of bicycle helmets, I found a perfect blend of safety and style for riders of all ages.

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, The Daily Rider offers a diverse range of helmets to suit every taste. With knowledgeable staff to guide you, like Loren who gave me intel on next month’s big sale, finding the ideal helmet becomes a personalized and enjoyable experience.

Solid State Books – Games That Spark Conversation: My final destination was Solid State Books (600F H St NE), a bookshop that goes beyond the ordinary. Among the shelves of literary wonders, you’ll stumble upon a treasure trove of conversational games. From absurdly funny card games to board games that leave you questioning your sanity, Solid State Book is the place to unleash your inner comedian. Gather your friends, pick a game, and get ready for a night of laughter, questionable strategies, and a few well-timed eye rolls. In the world of retail therapy, it’s not just about acquiring things – it’s about the experiences and emotions attached to them. Our neighborhood stores offer more than products; they provide moments of joy, relaxation, and connection. So, the next time you need a pick-me-up, consider embarking on a retail therapy journey that goes beyond the transaction and into the realm of memorable experiences. Denzell Spencer is a nonprofit development consultant and former middle school teacher. He is a graduate of Howard University who enjoys good music, suspenseful mystery novels, and Southern cuisine. If you would like to recommend an item or local retailer for “Retail Therapy,” send it to dspencer20003@gmail.com. u

The JLC Team loves helping people find their place in the world. And according to our Zillow and Yelp reviews, people love working with our team! Give us a call to learn more about our collective team approach — we would love to talk with you!

Let us be the key to your next move. 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 SE E OU R R EV I EW S ON Z I LLOW J LC T E A M .C OM

@ J LC T E A M

Compass is a licensed real estate brokerage that abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Compass is licensed as Compass Real Estate in DC and as Compass in Virginia and Maryland. 660 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20003 | 202.545.6900

FULL TIME JOB OPENING Direct Support Professionals

Wholistic Services inc. is looking for dedicated individuals to work as Direct Support Professionals assisting intellectually disabled adults with behavioral & health complexities in our residential locations in the District of Columbia and Maryland.

Job Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 75 lbs • Complete required training prior to hire • Completion of Trained Medication Employee (TME) and Certified Medication Technician (CMT) certifications within 6 months of hire • Cleared DOH background check prior to hire

• Valid Driver’s License/ Learner’s Permit w/approval • Valid CPR/First Aid certification (Online certification not accepted)

Please contact Human Resources @ 202-832-8787 for further information. February 2024 H 49

EXPERIENCE MATTERS THE GRANT, RYALL & ANDREW GROUP

(202) 285-3600

www.grantryallandrew.com Coldwell Banker Realty 350 7th Street SE 20003 (202) 547-3525

2015-2023

50 H HILLRAG.COM

CAPITOL STREETS

Cluster Model Leaves School Health Suites Empty

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

arah Buckley’s kindergartener has lifethreatening food allergies. In previous years, she worked with school nurse at Amidon Bowen Elementary (401 I St. SW) to discuss medication and formulate a medication plan. But as the 2023-34, school year began, there was no nurse in the health suite. Instead, Buckley met a few weeks later with a health technician to discuss her son’s critical health needs. In December, she received a phone call from yet a different health care provider, saying the school did not have her son’s medical forms or EPIPEN, the medication that would stop a life-threatening allergic reaction. She rushed to the school. “More than halfway through the school year, no one had processed the paperwork we had submitted [to the health technician],” she testified at one of several public hearings. “His EPIPEN and Benadryl were just sitting there with no direction and no orders about how and when to use it.” “I’m frankly shocked that a child has not died at a Washington DC school at this point,” said Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner (ANC) Andrew Pawley (6D04) after Buckley spoke about the absence of school nurses at another meeting. “This needs an immediate solution.” The new cluster model implemented last fall is supposed to address the two issues that officials say encumber school health services: limited staff and limited funds. But parents say the gaps are still there. In 202223, a school nurse contracted to work in the schools may only have been available on certain days or parts of days. Under the cluster model, parents

say that often the health suite is empty. Even when the office is staffed, they say, the care provider may not be a nurse or regular staff familiar with a student or their needs. Not only that, there are signs the cluster model may be contributing to attrition. The DC Nursing Association (DCNA) says the added responsibility placed on nurses in the new system is driving them out of District schools and into other municipalities or parts of the health sector.

What is the Cluster Model?

The cluster model is intended to fill school health suites by maximizing nursing hours. It’s a contract between DC Health and the Children’s School Services (CSS) program at Children’s National Hospital to staff school health suites. In the cluster model, a team of up to five professionals, ideally two nurses and three medical technicians, would serve up to four schools in geographic proximity. The nurses would create medical plans, conduct specialized procedures, and supervise the technicians who would administer medications and provide data collection and basic first aid. “This model is intended to focus our limited resources where they are most needed to address the health inequities in DC,” said Elizabeth Davis, Government Affairs Liaison for Children’s National. A 2017 law mandating a full-time nurse in every school was never funded nor implemented. But a 1987 law remains on the books requiring 20 hours of care from a nurse in each District

school. “Whether it was 20 hours a week or whether it was 40 hours a week, the District of Columbia has never reached 100 percent of every school having full time nurse, RN or LPN coverage,” said Councilmember Christina Henderson (At-Large D), Chair of the DC Council Committee on Health.

Money

One problem in recruiting and maintaining staffing is nurses’ compensation has not been competitive. To address this, Children’s National said in hearings before council that they had raised school nursing pay scales this fall to match more closely that of neighboring Prince George County. This appears to have stabilized ongoing hires, they said. The second issue is lack of budget. In the last budget $25 million was allocated to the school cluster program. The administration tried to claw $4.3 million back; only intervention from DC Council kept it in the program, said Henderson. In 2017, the nursing program—then mandated to provide 20 hours to each school — cost $19 million. Henderson estimates that today a budget of $40 million would allow each school to have a dedicated nurse. But, she says “the council alone cannot fund a $15 million enhancement for school nurses. This has to come from the mayor.” “There’s been a lot of advocacy [directed] towards the council,” Henderson noted. “I February 2024 H 51

CAPITOL ST.s

ber of conversations with school leadership prior to implementation.

Where Are the Techs?

Numbers reported by Children’s National/CSS officials to the DC Council Committee on Health, Jan. 4, 2024. Does not include contract or temporary staff.

hope that once the mayor launches her budget conversations [in March] that she will be hearing from the public that this is also a priority for them.” DC Health Director Bennett says that whatever the desire might be, District schools must deal with reality, and the cluster model, she told DC Council, is the most realistic way of addressing health needs with the limited resources.

High Demand for Nurses

The second of the limitations is available workforce. Nurses are in high demand not only in the DMV but nationwide. In the wake of the pandemic, many nurses stepped away from their jobs. One estimate suggests there are one million open nursing positions in the United States. “Even if we had enough money, there is no way there are enough nurses in this region, but also more broadly across the country, to fill the gap that would be required to get to 40 hours of nursing in every school,” DC Health Director Dr. Ayanna Bennett told the DC Council Committee on Health. The cluster model started the 2023-24 school year 90 percent staffed. However, the DC Nursing Association (DCNA) says that 25 nurses have left the CSS school nursing program since August. At a Jan. 4 hearing before the DC Council’s Committee on Health, CSS said that had staffing had declined to 52 percent (in an email to Hill Rag dated Jan. 26, CSS said that number had bounced back to 59 percent). 52 H HILLRAG.COM

Nurses Opposed

DCNA has come out against the cluster model, authoring a petition in August 2023 and a letter to DC Council in November 2023, saying the delegation of health tasks to unqualified professionals “violates the safety of our most vulnerable children.” DCNA Consultant Deborah Thomas said the District did not consult with the Board of Nursing, which operates under DC Health, before adopting the plan. DCNA also argues that the cluster model violates professional guidelines, the DC Nursing Practice Act and a 1987 law requiring that each school have a minimum of 20 hours service from an LPN or RN every week. “[Nurses] are scared they’re going to be held liable for a mistake made by someone else,” she said. In a report from a school nurse dated Jan. 12, 2024 and quoted by DCNA, the unidentified nurse said it is impossible to oversee a full team, respond to emergencies at multiple schools or properly do case management for the number of students served in a cluster. “In most of the care plans I and other DCPS nurses do,” the DCNA quoted the nurse as saying, “we have never seen the student because there is not enough time to go to every school and assess the students. I am not at any one school long enough to follow up.” Both DC Council and CSS disagree that DCNA was not consulted as the program was being designed. CSS says they met with the four nursing union shop stewards from each bargaining unit regularly in the development of the plan and that DC Health also held a num-

But the cluster model depends not only on nurses, but on high numbers of available health technicians, a position much like an EMT. For 2023-24. CSS expected to hire 120 health technicians; as of Nov. 28. 2023 they had only filled 67 vacancies, a 44 percent vacancy rate. In an email to the Hill Rag, CSS said that they anticipated that more medical technician candidates would have the required clinical experience than proved available. “We will continue our hiring efforts and have enhanced our orientation process to address this,” CSS said. CSS and Children’s National have argued that part of the problem was with a process that did not determine school and health suite needs prior to budgeting. Some health suites were added after funds were set, complicating staffing and budget allocation. Children’s School Services CEO Dr. Andrea Boudreaux said that a health technician needs to feel support from District administration, schools and families, and “that they are not just a fix but actually valuable members of the community. That is where we are seeing some of the attrition,” she told the Committee on Health Jan. 4. The nurse quoted in DCNA testimony said the techs feel they are taking on too much responsibility. “They thought they were working with the nurse, not replacing them,” the report said.

Facing Realities

These unmet expectations have resulted in empty health suite and unmet medical needs. One parent said their student was old enough to administer their own medication, an inhaler, by themselves but still had to be kept home from school because a trained staff member was not available to get the medication from the nurses’ office; others reported parents coming to the school to administer medications themselves. The cluster model might also be straining the District’s already strained emergency system. A representative from Firefighter Local 36 said he had anecdotal evidence of increased trips to District schools since the system was implemented, trips that he said seemed to have increased since the fall. When a parent cannot be contacted, he said,

the student has to be brought to the emergency room and conveyed into the custody of a medical team there, taking one more Emergency Medical Services (EMS) team off the street. Both DC Health and CSS say that like much of the medical system, school nursing in the District is in a post-pandemic moment. Dr. Bennett said that changes do need to be made, but not as an abandonment of the plan, rather, she said, “to get to some future, more stable model.” Both DC Health and CSS say the cluster model shouldn’t be judged as they scramble to get to full staffing. “I want to clarify that we were in a fully staffed environment, and then we were in triage, which not necessarily the way the program is going to operate,” Bennett told a Jan. 4 roundtable on the program. Prioritizing the allocation of health care professionals is needed until more staff are hired, she said. “That is a triage response.” Bennett cautioned that a step away from the model will leave children without care. “We have got to give ourselves the chance to get there before we take judgment,” she told the Committee on Health. “Because the reality is we will be way below 40 percent of full-time coverage in every school if we return to a nurse model.” Others, however, are not confident, saying the sense of urgency has been lost. One parent told ANC 6D how her son went untreated for a head injury. “If the schools don’t have adequate nursing coverage for the days and the times students are in school, DCPS is just waiting for a child to die on their watch.” u February 2024 H 53

CAPITOL ST.s

Potential Pairing of Miner and Maury Elementaries Still Under Consideration Despite Opposition

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

he Deputy Mayor of Education (DME) has reached the point in their Boundary and Student Assignment Study where recommendations are being made that impact specific schools. This is part of a reexamination of feeder patterns and school boundaries required by DC law every ten years. The last boundary study took place in 2013. On Dec. 20, DME and the Advisory Committee announced that the bulk of recommendations affecting Hill schools were off the table, including boundary changes that could have affected Brent Elementary School, the Cluster Schools and Payne Elementary School. However, probably the most contentious

idea remains under consideration. That is a proposal to recommend that Miner and Maury elementaries be paired into a single elementary school located in two different buildings. The paired school proposal is intended to reduce racial and socio-economic disparities between the two schools. To do that, the two schools would be “paired” into a single school operating in two buildings. The result would be something like the Cluster School (www.capitolhillclusterschool.org), where Peabody Elementary serves PreK through kindergarten, and Watkins Elementary serves grades 1 through 5. Early concepts propose Miner enroll grades from preK3 to 2 and Maury enroll grades 3 through 5. The idea has raised strong opinions with-

Miner Elementary School (601 15 St. NE). Photo: E. O’Gorek/CCN

54 H HILLRAG.COM

Maury Elementary School (1250 Constitution, Ave. NE). Photo: E.O’Gorek/CCN

in the school communities and the surrounding neighborhoods. Hundreds have signed on to an online petition in support as well as another in opposition. DME says they are working with parent organization leadership to present new information to families in the two school communities and to collect additional feedback via a new survey.

Side By Side

Although only about a half a mile apart, if one goes by the data, the two schools are extremely different. Miner is a Title 1 school, meaning that 40 percent or more of the students qualify for the federal free lunch program. (Maury Elementary was a Title 1 school until the 2013-2014 school year).

Miner and Maury Elementary Schools are located about a half mile apart but have very different demographics. Screenshot: Google Maps

For the 2022-23 school year, at-risk enrollment at Maury in 2022-23 is 12 percent and at Miner, 64 percent. Other gaps have also widened. The population living in-bounds for Maury is 25 percent Black, while those living in Miner boundaries are 73 percent Black. Maury’s student population is 21 percent Black while 80 percent of the students at Miner identify as Black. Far more students living in boundary for Maury attend their school than is the case for Miner’s eligible population. 64 percent of students living in-boundary for Maury are attending their boundary school; only 26 percent of Miner students living in bounds attend their school. Speaking at a meeting for the Maury community on Nov. 28, DME Director of Planning and Analysis Jennifer Comey said there are 44 pairs of adjacent elementary schools in the District with a difference of more than 25 percentage points in atrisk student enrollment between them. For most of those, 37 pairs, the difference is less than 50 percent. But for seven, the difference is 50 percent or more. Of those seven, Comey said Miner and Maury

are the only pair without a geographic barrier (such as a busy highway) preventing a cluster solution. Deputy Mayor for Education Paul Kihn said that’s why more racially segregated schools in Northwest were not being clustered to increase diversity.

Parent Reaction

In meetings with school communities in November and December of 2023, some parents asked DME why the individual school boundaries could not be more “surgically redrawn” to address the issues. DME tells the Hill Rag that in the past month, they and their technical team have tested out different school boundary configurations, some of which may help address the challenge. But they note that some of those potential new boundaries “have inequitable impacts regarding travel distances that make them not strong candidates for recommendation.” DME said they will share this analysis during the parent organization meetings with the two schools, scheduled for Feb. 6 and Feb. 15. DME has been collecting responses to the idea since it was first presented at a meeting with

Maury Elementary Nov. 28. They say many families and residents have recognized the challenge evident by extreme differences at the two schools in the share of at-risk enrollment. Some families find the idea of pairing the schools disruptive and logistically challenging, they add, and wonder how this enrollment policy idea addresses supporting strong academic outcomes at both schools. “Others believe that the idea has merit and are supportive of exploring the idea with intentional planning, strong leadership, and dedicated school community engagement,” DME said. “Many families have questions about how this could be implemented, and we want to stress that any idea such as this would require a longterm, intentional planning process ultimately led by DC Public Schools (DCPS),” said a DME representative.

At-Risk Set Aside?

Some parents are frustrated by the fact that the paired school idea was presented as the principal option. In initial presentations DME did note one possible alternative to the paired school proposal: implementing at-risk seat reservation for schools where at-risk students account for 30 percent or lower enrollment. But that idea was presented with far less framing in initial meetings than the idea of paired schools. Parents attending a Dec. 14 town hall expressed dismay when DME Director of Planning and Analysis Jennifer Comey gave modeling for multiple Hill schools, but had not yet modeled Maury and Miner. That analysis has now been completed. In modeling data shared with the Hill Rag, the DME technical team estimates that the applied set aside would increase Maury’s at-risk enrollment from 12% to 25%, “closer to the 30% target without increasing overall enrollment.” If the at-risk set aside is recommended, the policy would also apply to other schools meeting the below 30% at-risk enrollment across the District. This includes Capitol Hill schools like Brent ES (6% at-risk enrollment in SY22-23), February 2024 H 55

CAPITOL ST.s

Capitol Hill Montessori (21%), Ludlow Taylor (17%), Peabody (13%), School within a School (13%), and Watkins (28%). DME said the policy should not increase enrollment at any school because the set aside would be applied to the same number of lottery seats that the school otherwise planned to offer. It would also not interfere with current in-boundary rights for students. For DCPS neighborhood schools offering PK3 and PK4, the current situation at both Miner and Maury, the policy would apply only to in-boundary students meeting the at-risk designation. It would not apply to out-of-boundary at-risk PK students. DME said that policy is designed to avoid enrollment pressures when byright kindergarten students later enroll.

Parent Organization Statements

Neither of the two parent organizations has taken a stand in favor or against the paired school concept. The two have regularly communicated since the idea was first presented in November. In a statement shared with the Hill Rag Jan. 22, Miner Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) leadership said they appreciated subsequent communication from DME but said that many out-

Association (PTA) co-presidents echoed many standing questions remain. of these sentiments. “Within our school, as well as the broader “Our school harbors diverse views, recommunity in which we sit, there are a diversity flecting the varied perspectives of our parents, of opinions and questions on the proposed DME teachers, and staff, and we respect that diversirecommendations and as a representative organization we do not believe that we have the consensus that would be required for the PTO to take Share Your Opinion: a position on any of them in particular, or on the community-led You do not have to attend the schools to give your views; statepetitions regarding the merger ments all members of the community are welcome. proposal,” the statement reads. Continue providing feedback to DME at https://www.dcIf the proposal moves forward, schoolboundaryexplorer.com/ where you can leave comments. the PTO noted, DME should There is also a form on the DME website: look under “Commuensure the merger is shaped nity Feedback” at https://dme.dc.gov/node/1644431. in deliberate consultation with Sign the community petition in opposition to both school communities. the pairing online: (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/ The Miner statement cone/1FAIpQLSdMOINMl_y2bNKKGiGSQgktEjh08eSqrAUcludes, “We all share a coma3OqYqAzQmx_pog/viewform) and a community petition mon goal of creating quality edin support of the idea here: (https://forms.gle/u63WvdPmucation opportunities for the Jw7KAEZK9). diverse set of learners at each school and adequately meeting their needs requires genuine listy of opinions,” they wrote. “The PTA’s focus is tening to their needs as the details of such a pronot on advocating for or against the paired modposal were determined.” el specifically as the best way to achieve those In a statement, the Maury Parent Teacher shared goals of diversity and inclusion. Our role in this process has been to share information and push for more analysis and consideration by the DME, so that parents can make their own informed decisions.” Referencing the joint Maury PTA-Miner PTO letter to DME, the Maury statement reiterated a commitment to diversity in District schools and to a high-quality education for all. But Maury’s PTA expressed concern with the way in which the proposals for the two schools have Modeling results for a paired school presented to Miner Elementary by DME Dec. 19, 2023. https:// dme.dc.gov/node/1693206

56 H HILLRAG.COM

FLAT ROOF SPECIALISTS OVER 50+ years of experience FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED

been rolled out. “Unlike other schools, the DME presented Maury and Miner with a single proposal, rather than a suite of options to examine and consider,” they noted. “Since then, the DME has been exploring other options for our schools, including redrawing the boundaries and an At Risk Set Aside.” The PTA will continue to champion a cooperative approach, the statement concluded, to achieve best outcomes “through open dialogue, mutual understanding, and thoughtful analysis,” adding they are “committed to advocating for a transparent and equitable process that takes our community’s considerations into account.”

What’s Next

Time is short. While DME says the plans are not final and conversation is open, they are trying to determine which recommendations they will put in their final report over the next month. DME is set to appear before both the Miner PTO and the Maury PTA. They say the goal is to submit final recommendations to the mayor for approval by March 2024. While many changes accepted from the report would go into effect at start of SY2025, DME says pairing the two schools would require several years of planning and engagement with the communities, although they did not give a timeline. u

OFF

SERVICE

ROOFING & GUTTERS

*New Clients only. Exp. 02/29/2024

FLAT ROOF SPECIALISTS NEW ROOFS EXPERTS IN PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE

FREE ESTIMATES

Check us out on Thumbtack and HomeAdvisor

ROOF COATINGS AND REPAIR ALL TYPES OF ROOFING GUTTERS/DOWNSPOUTS CHIMNEY REPAIRS BRICK AND MASONRY WATERPROOFING BRICK TUCKPOINTING BLOWN-IN INSULATION

202-262-4168 I HstewartRoofing.com LICENSED BONDED INSURED

February 2024 H 57

CAPITOL ST.s

ANCs Consider Applications for Retail Medical Marijuana Emergency Legislation Allows “Gifting” Shops to Go Legit by Elizabeth O’Gorek

he medical cannabis licensing race is on. At their Jan. 9 meeting, Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6B heard an application to ABCA from UpNSmoke LLC (427 Eighth St. SE). The business, currently operating under a business license as a juice bar, seeks a Medical Retail Cannabis License. They’re taking advantage of emergency legislation allowing them to move from the so-called “gray” market and into DC’s regulated medical dispensary program. It’s a limited window, however. The 90-day application period opened on November 1, 2023 and will close on January 29, 2024.

Going Legit

Congress blocked the District from creating a legal market for cannabis in 2014. Businesses used a loophole in the law to “gift” cannabis with the sale of another product or service, creating a “gray market” outside the bounds of District regulation. In an attempt to bring order to the marUpNSmoke Barracks Row (427 Eighth St. SE). Photo: E. O’Gorek ket, emergency legislation passed by DC Council last December allows so-called “I71” businesses to apply to the Alcohol Bevee. How long is that? About the length of the Taking the Lead erage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) for 300 block of Pennsylvania Avenue SE (where the But there’s a still an opportunity for some apa license to sell medical marijuana. The same Hawk ’n’ Dove is located). plicants to get to the front of the pack. The law law permits customers to certify themselves for It means that a successful application could says that half of all licenses issued to establisha medical marijuana card. effectively freeze out another on the same block, ments have to be issued to social equity appliLicenses are processed on a first-come, firsta real possibility on several blocks of H Street cants. Those are defined as District residents serve basis, ABCA said. And that matters in a NE, for instance. ANC Commissioner Chander who earn less than 150 percent of mean housereal way: District legislation limits licenses withJayaraman (6B06) described the application prohold income and/or either have themselves been in specific distances. Medical cannabis retailers cess as a “hunger games situation,” noting that a convicted of —or have a family member who was must be 300 feet from schools and recreation new operator without a storefront who submitconvicted of— a cannabis or drug-related offense. centers. Individual businesses also must be loted paperwork would be prioritized over a curABCA said the total licenses awarded by the cated at least 400 feet from an existing licensrent operator who has not yet done so. agency during the 90-day period is actually de58 H HILLRAG.COM

pendent upon the number of social equity licenses awarded. If eight social equity licenses are awarded in those 90 days, ABCA can grant up to 8 standard licenses, the agency clarified.

Moving to Compliance

ANC 6B saw a bit of a rush in applications. Commissioner Chander Jayaraman said that ANC 6B currently has three applicants for a medical retailer license before them. That includes UpNSmoke as well as No Kids Allowed (637 Pennsylvania Ave. SE) and DC Dash (727 Eighth St. SE, a bit more than 1000 feet from UpNSmoke). Meanwhile, ANC 6A considered applications from another UpNSmoke location ( 712 15th Street NE) and Za Partners (1383 H St. NE) while ANC 6C heard a December application from New Leaf (416 H St. NE) Zack Learman, legal representative for UpNSmoke, said they are a social equity applicant. The business is at least 50 percent owned by District resident Hassan Dib. As a social equity applicant, Learn said, Dib earns less than 150 percent of the median family income as set forth by US Housing and Urban Development and was previously convicted under a cannabis or drug-related offense. UpNSmoke representatives said they would work with ANC 6B to move to full compliance. At the most recent ANC 6B meeting, commissioners voted to protest the application to maintain their standing as they negotiate a Settlement Agreement (SA), said Chair Edward Ryder. Learman noted that Dibs applied for a medical license for that location that was protested by ANC 6A for the same reasons. Security is also a concern even

with legal cannabis sales. Commissioners said they would be watching the security and monitoring on the front of the UpNSmoke storefront, which is located next door to a 7-11. Store operators said that they employ one of the only security services approved by ABCA. Security is always on site to verify identification and sales as well as behavior after purchase, they said. Learman posited that the security presence might improve safety on the street overall.

Enforcement Coming

Strategically, it makes sense for a business like UpNSmoke to initiate an application as soon as possible. That’s because in January, DC Council passed emergency legislation introduced by Councilmember Charles Allen (Ward 6-D) designed to give ABCA the teeth to go after gifting shops, forbidding them from representing themselves as I-71 shops or from selling or “gifting” cannabis at alI. In a press release, Allen said as the application period opened it was clear that enforcement was necessary for shops that still choose to operate illegally. “The goal is to create an enforcement scheme for cannabis that more closely mirrors how we regulate the sale of alcohol for bars and liquor stores in the District and in doing so, create safer neighborhoods for everyone,” Allen said. Allen’s Chief of Staff Kate Mitchell said enforcement won’t apply to people who have initiated or are already in the application process. In an interview, Allen said he was confident that more and more businesses would apply to become part of the medical cannabis proFebruary 2024 H 59

Keith Roofing

EXPERT WORKMANSHIP AT REASONABLE PRICES! Residential/Commercial • Over 40 years of Experience Chimney Repairs • Storm & Wind Damage Repair

• New or Re-Roofing • Tear-Off & Replacement • Flat Roof Specialist • Copper, Tin, Sheet Metal & Rolled • Seamless & Flat Roofs • Re-Sealing • Tar, Asphalt, Gravel, Hot Coats • Modified Bitumen Insurance Claims • Free Estimates • 24Hr. Service

Fully Insured • Licensed • Bonded “No Job Too Large or Small” Senior & Military Discounts Available!

202-486-7359

All Work Inspected by Owner...Deals Directly with Customers! All Work Fully Guaranteed 60 H HILLRAG.COM

MENTION THE

TO RECEIVE DISCOUNTS!

$350 OFF

$500 OFF

All Repairs

New Driveways

LICENSED & INSURED

Over 95% of my business are past clients or their referrals who come back to me time and time again.

gram. “Across the entirety of the city, you’re going to go from eight licensed establishments, to probably 40 licensed establishments,” he said. Allen said the new enforcement strategy in the emergency legislation, if passed, could completely eliminate illegal shops. Asked for details on enforcement, representatives for ABCA noted that Mayor Muriel Bowser had until Jan. 26, 2024, to take action on the emergency legislation. “ABCA will be prepared to enforce the legislation in the event that it becomes law,” said a representative. ANC 6B has voted to send a letter in support of the legislation. But commissioners still have some concerns. They asked the DC Council to bring some regulations for cannabis licensing in alignment with requirements for alcohol licensing. For instance, the distance from which a cannabis business can operate in proximity to a school or recreation center is 300 feet for cannabis businesses and 400 for those selling alcohol. They also request future legislation include a process to request an extension of the protest deadline, currently absent from DC Code. UpNSmoke representative Learman said he understood that the application is the point at which the ANC could impact their operations, and he understood why they needed to protest. But, he said, the business only wants to take the opportunity to operate in full compliance, Learman added. “We’re in the gray and we’re looking to move to the white,” he said. u

$750 OFF

New Patios

TRUST THE MOST DEPENDABLE & SKILLED PAVERS! DC’S LEADING MASONRY CONTRACTOR

LINDA PETTIE @ 202-276-3172 CELL Main Office @ 202-547-3525 Direct @ 202-741-1770 www.pettietubbs.com Coldwell Banker Realty 350 7th ST SE Washington, DC 20003 Washingtonian Award Winner 2016-2022 Linda is in the top 1% of Coldwell Banker Agents Worldwide

BEFORE

AFTER

SPECIALIZING IN: WALKWAY, FLAGSTONE REPAIR, STOOP REPAIR, PATIO REPAIR, POWERWASHING & PATIO REPAIR

REALTOR ®

Experience Matters When it

FINDING YOUR DREAM HOME.

Comes to

Over 30 years assisting clients in residential, multi-family & probate estate sales in the DMV.

EVELYN BRANIC

202-855-3245

www.a1masonrycontractors.com 1775 EYE STREET NW, WDC 20006

FREE ESTIMATES

EMERGENCY FOUNDATION REPAIRS AVAILABLE Family Owned & Operated

REALTOR ®

(202) 741-1674

Ebranic.cbintouch.com Ebranic@cbmove.com 350 7th St SE, WDC 20003

DRIVEWAYS • WALKWAYS & STOOPS • BASEMENT WATERPROOFING PATIOS • ASPHALT • PAVERS • CONCRETE NATURAL STONE RETAINING WALLS & FIREPITS • FLAGSTONE • BELGIUM BLOCKS BLUESTONE • POOLSCAPES • ALL MASONRY REPAIRS • & MUCH MORE!

PROFESSIONAL CLEANING AT AN AFFORDABLE RATE

Serving Capitol Hill & SW DC for Over 30 Years! Locally Owned

$20

Off Your First Clean NEW CLIENT SPECIAL

DAILY • WEEKLY • BIWEEKLY • MONTHLY PET & FAMILY FRIENDLY GET STARTED WITH YOUR FREE ESTIMATE!

703-719-9850 703-447-5500

standardcleaningservicesinc.com REFERENCES • BONDED & INSURED

Architects & Builders on The Hill since 1986 architecture | interior design | construction | remodeling

wentworthremodel.com 240.200.4802 Wentworthstudio.com I 240.395.0705 February 2024 H 61

CAPITOL ST.s

New Ownership at 7-River Mart

Cub Reporters Introduce Community to the “Two New Dudes”

by Anais Buhr, Avery Coester, Miles Miller-Smith and Hannah Weiss

-River Mart (250 11th St. NE) is under new management. The new owners are Dawit Demissie (pronounced Dah-wee, 34) and his brother Nahom (Nay-home), who goes by Nathan or Nate (35). Both brothers were born and raised in Ethiopia and came to Kentucky for high school. They later attended college in Arkansas.

Why Did They Come?

Nathan and Dawit came to the area to be nearer to their sister and her family, who live in Virginia (you will sometimes see their nephew helping behind the counter). The brothers banded together to purchase a

Dawit Demissie with Mr. Ko on Ko’s last day at the store, Jan. 2, 2024. Photo: A. Buhr

The authors with Mr. “Sam” Ko, Jan. 2, 2024. Photo: E. O’Gorek/CCN

62 H HILLRAG.COM

house in Maryland. You will maybe meet Nathan’s fiancèe, Peggy, or Dawit’s significant other, Margaret. The brothers also have two dogs called Milo and Fluffy. About a year ago, they decided to join together and own a store. In doing so, they were following in the footsteps of their parents, who operated convenience stores in Ethiopia when the brothers were younger. They picked 7-River Mart specifically, first visiting the store

about a year ago. But why? “Everyone likes 7-River Mart and it is so cheerful and lively,” Nathan explained. They took over Dec. 19, 2023. The two say they want to keep it a happy store, welcoming dogs and kids. “I’m very excited to be here,” Nathan said. “I love the people.”

Mr. Ko Leaving!

Previous owner of the store, Mr. Su “Sam” Ko, is retiring to Fairfax, Virginia after 11 years of hard

Nahom (Nathan) Demissie, one of two brothers to purchase 7-River Mart in December 2023. Photo: A. Buhr

work. He had sold goodies, dinner, toiletries, Lucky Charms and so much more. “He was kind to everyone in the neighborhood and never got upset,” said neighbor Hannah Weiss. He would even sometimes give children free ice cream or shortbread cookies. Ko said he will miss “everyone; the whole neighborhood, including the dogs,” and hopes that the store will stay friendly and fun. The authors are grade 3 students at Maury Elementary (1250 Constitution Ave. NE), frequent 7-River Mart shoppers and erstwhile members of Maury’s Polite Piggy’s after-school newspaper club. Do you have a story written by a cub reporter or reporters in elementary, middle or high school that you think should be shared with the Capitol Hill community? Email: liz@hillrag.com u

NEWLY RENOVATED O FFICE BUILDIN G

FOR SALE 516 C STREET, NE WASHINGTON, DC 20002

$2,571,750

OVERLOOKING STANTON PARK • Recently renovated in 2023 • Approximately 4,050 square foot, three-story building with historic converted front house in front. • Walk Score: 94, Transit Score: 88 • Perfect opportunity for Owner/User, Investment, or Multi-Use. • Large conference facility

Doug Damron

Senior Managing Director t: (202) 312-5760 doug.damron@nmrk.com

Christopher Lucey

Managing Director t: (202) 312-5471 chris.lucey@nmrk.com

February 2024 H 63

In Memoriam

Grant Griffith 1938 – 2024

Mentor, friend, and Capitol Hill neighbor.

Grant Griffith 1938 to 2024: Longtime Capitol Hill Realtor by Hill Rag Staff

O Because Local Experience Matters.

p: 202.546.3100

64 H HILLRAG.COM

210 7th Street, SE, Suite 100

monarchtitle.net

n Jan. 13, 2024, Grant Griffith, of Woodville, VA, passed away peacefully, one week after his 86th birthday. Grant was born on Jan. 6, 1938 in Miami, Florida, educated in Michigan; and created a successful real estate business in the Washington, DC area. Grant is survived by his spouse, best friend, and life partner of 56 years, Evert Sowards. Grant enjoyed the love and respect of his many friends and colleagues in Rappahannock County, VA, Washington, DC, and

G G ROOFING

AWARDED BEST WASHINGTON, DC CONTRACTOR OF 2012 BY ANGIE’S LIST FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED • “50 YEARS EXPERIENCE”

around the globe. Over his career, Grant distinguished himself as a trail blazing real estate professional. He founded one of the longest running real estate teams, “The Grant, Ryall, Andrew Group” at Coldwell Banker Realty on Capitol Hill. His team, still in operation, has been named among the nation’s top real estate teams by The Wall Street Journal, REALTrends Magazine, Washingtonian Magazine and Coldwell Banker. Grant had a keen eye. He was a passionate and talented collector of art and antiques. Of particular pride, and started by a gift from Evert, Grant amassed a world-class collection of stunning antique carriage clocks. Their beautiful residence in Woodville, VA seemed to serve equally as a first-class art gallery, a museum of fine antiques and a welcoming, comfortable home—with some of the best Blue Ridge Mountain views anywhere! Grant was well known for his love of opera and playing bridge, his love of travel (especially cruises), his love of shopping for bargains (a master coupon collector), and his love of being with people (both as a consummate host and charming, witty guest). Evert sends his heart-felt thank you and appreciation to the women and men of the Sperryville & Washington Volunteer Rescue Squads, Warren Memorial Hospital, Blue Ridge Hospice, Tschiffely Pharmacy and to their many friends and supporters. A memorial tribute will be held in spring of 2024. u

• Flat Roof Specialists

• Chimney Repairs

• Modified Bitumen

• Roof Coatings

• Skylights

• Gutters & Downspouts

• Shingles

• Preventive Maintenance

• Slate

• Metal Roofs

10% OFF WITH THIS AD

202.425.1614 WWW.GANDGHOMEIMPROVEMENTS.NET

Licensed & Insured | All Work Managed & Inspected by Owners

JOHNSON LAW GROUP Integrity, Value, and Social Responsibility

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD REALTOR

GEORGE OLSON (202) 203-0339 - (M) (202) 203-0339 - (D) george.olson@cbmove.com

Wills, Estates & Trusts • Business Law & Government Contracting Property & Housing Disputes • Elder Law 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. SE • WDC 20003 • 202.544.1515 • jlgi.com

Capitol Hill Office 605 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE 202.547.3525

WIDE SHOE OUTLET Men’s and Women’s sizes up to 15 EE Savings in store and online

simplywide.com Brands: Naturalizer • Soft Spots • Ros Hommerson • Propet Walking • Cradles • Easy Street

10 off

Lots & Lots

Wide Width Shoes

All Sales

Limited Time simplywide.com

All Day Comfort

4279 Branch Avenue Marlow Heights, MD 20748

301-702 1401

February 2024 H 65

CAPITOL ST.s

Our River: The Anacostia

How Are We Doing on the Anacostia? by Bill Matuszeski

inter is a good time for an overview of how the Anacostia River restoration is going. I interviewed five leaders of the multiyear effort who know best what is going on, what is working and not working, and what are the prospects for continued progress. They are, in alphabetical order: • Dennis Chestnut, head of Ward 7 Resilience Hub Community Coalition, and previously Executive Director of Groundwork Anacostia River DC. • Marian Dombroski, Chair/ViceChair of the Anacostia Watershed Community Advisory Committee.

•

• •

Brenda Richardson, head of Anacostia Parks and Community Collaborative. Trey Sherard, Anacostia Riverkeeper. Chris Williams, head of the Anacostia Watershed Society.

Kent and Kelly, two of the many people who volunteer to clean and restore the Anacostia, go out weekly to pick up “invasive objects,” including shopping carts and tires. Photo: Marian Dombroski

Do these folks believe we are meeting our timelines and goals in the Anacostia watershed? Overall, the situation is looking very positive. This is because of DC Water’s $2.7 billion Clean River Project. The two massive tunnels that comprise the project Trey Sherard, Anacostia Riverkeeper capture and hold 98 percent of the stormwater and sewage that would otherwise have gone into the river. This runoff now goes to the Blue Plains Wastewater Treatment Plant, a part of DCWater. This practice to mix the sewage with rains from runoff goes back to the 19th century in many cities; engineers back then thought that it would keep the drain pipes clean and add pollution to rivers for only a short time. But they were wrong, and many cities are now planning and building their own storage tunnels for the combined sewage. DC is ahead of nearly all the others!

66 H HILLRAG.COM

And the Anacostia project is the first to go into operation in the region. “A lot of work remains to be done,” said Chris Williams, “but it’s exciting to see initiatives we’ve worked on for many years, like the Anacostia River tunnels and the remediation of toxic chemicals in the river bed, coming to fruition. These are gamechangers for water quality in the Anacostia.”

More Areas of Pollution Concern

The enormous success of the storage tunnels does not mean all our pollution problems in the Anacostia River have been solved, however. There are two areas upstream that continue to give us problems. Beaverdam Creek runs along New York Avenue in Maryland. Where it enters the District, it releases into the Anacostia a flow of heavy pollution from industrial wastes that come from lands along Route 50 all the way to the Beltway. There is also a flow of toxics down Hickey Run in DC, passing under New York Avenue and through the National Arboretum to the Anacostia. There is another stream entering the Arboretum a few hundred feet northeast. It is low on pollution and runs through an artificial lake and streams with high quality water that all manner of creatues including flourishing families of beavers.

Roof Repairs and Replacements Specialists

This is Springhouse Run, which must be seen to be appreciated. It flows down through the Arboretum and joins Hickey Run on the way to the Anacostia.

Enjoying the River

One of the most important contributions for citizens to make about the continued enjoyment of the river and its shoreline over time is to decide how to accommodate the many desired activities along a limited shoreline. “It is so exciting to be talking about actual locations for swimming, wading, fishing and boating – activities which have been limited or non-existent on the Anacostia for so many years. These opportunities must be accessible to everyone,” said Marian Dombroski. Natural areas for rest and quiet should also be built into the plan, with citizens of each neighborhood taking the lead in the parklands closest to them. Restoration of natural areas and protection of important habitat must also be integral to planning. After all, the public lands along the Anacostia were set aside to protect the river, and to provide opportunities to enjoy it. We must share it with all the wildlife that depend on it.

Issues with Kenilworth

At the present time there is planning going on which is out of step with other planning and restoration efforts. The National Park Service has asked the DC Department of Transportation to extend the Riverwalk Trail through Kenilworth Park and across the Anacostia. DCDOT is developing a trail, with no consideration of the range of folks who would be affected by the design and location of the bike trails or for the sensitive natural areas through which they pass. For example, the shore-

line should be reserved for purposes which depend on proximity to the river, and should include quiet areas for sitting and enjoying nature. Trails should serve the parks, not create throughways. “I’ve seen incredible change for the better in the 12 years I’ve spent on the Anacostia River, but some bad habits die hard, or not at all,” says Trey Sherard, Anacostia Riverkeeper. “But, while we’ve gone from the designs for the sewage tunnels to the entire Anacostia tunnel system entering operation last fall and the Splash event planned for this summer, we still find some agencies like the District Department of Transportation refusing outright to meaningfully engage with communities east of the river, as they have over the proposed bridge from Kenilworth Park to the Arboretum.”

REPAIR & INSTALLATION • Flat Roofing • Slate Roofing • Shingling LOCAL + FAMILY • Skylights OWNED & OPERATED • Gutters & Downspouts 30+ Years of Experience • Siding • Chinmeny

Martin

Roofing Call Now for your Free Estimate

202.860.9007

MartinRoofingdc.coM

The Future

All of our voices are needed to take advantage of the amazing opportunities before us to shape the future of the Anacostia for generations to come. That will assure that each stretch of the River reflects the human places and the rich natural areas along its shores. Dennis Chestnut speaks for all when he says. “The Anacostia river and the communities that border it are inextricably linked, and the health of one will not happen without the improvement to the health of the other. We have made tremendous strides and must continue to work hard to create a fishable and swimmable river for all DC residents.” Let’s make it happen! 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. u

February 2024 H 67

CAPITOL ST.s

Local Medical Cannabis Licensing Discussed ANC 6A REPORT by Sarah Payne Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC 6A) met via Zoom on Jan. 11. Commissioners Keya Chatterjee (6A01, vice chair), Mike Velasquez (6A02), Roberta Shapiro (6A03), Amber Gove (6A04, chair), Dave Wethington (6A05), Robb Dooling (6A06) and Steve Moilanen (6A07) were in attendance.

ranny Za’s at 515 H St. NE and UpNSmoke at 712 15th St. NE, asked the commission to support their applications to the Alcohol Beverage Cannabis Administration (ABCA) for Medical Retail Cannabis Licenses. These two storefronts are the first within the commission’s footprint to apply to make the transition from unregulated cannabis “gifting” establishments to operating under the District’s medical cannabis program. Emergency legislation adopted last year by the DC Council. allows I-71 retailers a 90-day window to apply for medical cannabis retailer licenses. The application period opened on Nov. 1, 2023 and will close on Jan. 29, 2024. The commission’s Alcohol Beverage Licensing (ABLC) Committee had held discussions on how to approach these businesses. The ABLC advised negotiating settlement agreements with the two, similar to those employed for liquor licenses, to help “balance public safety as well as people’s medical needs,” according to Commissioner Dooling. “We want to set up the businesses for success and we want them to thrive,” Dooling said of the ongoing process. Commissioner Velasquez expressed excitement about working with the committee and community in the new year. The commission took no vote on this matter.

68 H HILLRAG.COM

•

The Commission Voted To: •

• • •

•

send a letter to the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) requesting immediate consideration of design changes ahead of existing construction plans to address persistent safety issues at the intersections of Florida Avenue NE, 12th Street NE, and of K Street NE and Montello Avenue NE; send a letter of support to HSEMA for the 2024 Capitol Hill Classic Race; draft testimony with Commission and community input for DDOT performance oversight hearing; change the name of the commission’s Alcoholic Beverage Licensing Committee to the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Committee; amend the commission operating procedures to allow both com-

missioners and community members to make a motion to support an item at a Committee meeting and place it on the consent agenda, and if that motion passes unanimously, the item is placed on the consent agenda for the monthly meeting; re-elect current commission officers to continue their positions through 2024.

The next meeting of ANC 6A is at 7 p.m. Feb. 8 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. u

Commissioners Protest Medical Retail Cannabis Application ANC 6B REPORT by Elizabeth O’Gorek Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6B met via Zoom on Jan. 9. Frank Avery (6B01, treasurer); Jerry Sroufe (6B02); David Sobelsohn (6B03,

ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION 6A AMBER GOVE, CHAIR, 6A04@ANC.DC.GOV Serving the Near Northeast, North Lincoln Park, and H Street communities ANC 6A generally meets the second Thursday of the month, virtually on Zoom.

www.anc6a.org

secretary); Frank D’Andrea (6B04); Kasie Durkit (6B05); Chander Jayaraman (6B06); Vince Mareino (6B07, vice chair); Edward Ryder (6B08, chair); and Matt LaFortune (6B09) were present.

pNSmoke LLC, an I-71 cannabis retailer located at 427 Eighth St. SE, asked the commission to support its application to the Alcohol Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) for a Medical Retail Cannabis License. Emergency legislation adopted last year by the DC Council allows I-71 retailers a 90-day window to apply for medical cannabis retailer licenses. The application period opened on Nov. 1, 2023 and will close on Jan. 29, 2024. UpNSmoke is at least 50 percent owned by Hassan Dib, stated the store’s attorney Zack Learman, meeting all three standards to qualify as a “social equity applicant.” He is a DC resident who earns less than 150 percent of the median area family income and was previously convicted of a cannabis or drug-related offense. Commissioners were concerned that UpNSmoke had not reached a Settlement Agreement (SA). They voted to protest the application, while the agreement was under negotiation, to maintain their standing, said Chair Ryder. Under the current law, there is no process for the commission to request an extension of the hearing date. Advisory Neighborhood Commissions are the only group allowed standing under the law. ANC 6B commissioners were primarily concerned with security. UpNSmoke employs one of the only security services approved by ABCA, Learman stated. Security is always on site to verify identification and sales as well as behavior after

purchase, he added. Learman posited that this adds to the overall safety of the street. Learman promised to work with the commission to move to full compliance with the medical marijuana program and with the law. Applicants understood why commissioners needed to protest, Learman stated. “We’re in the gray and we’re looking to move to the white,” he said. UpNSmoke has three locations. Their Eighth Street SE site has been open for about a year. They have two more storefronts at 3289 M St. NE and 712 15th St. NE. The second location is applying for a medical license under the purview of ANC 6A. The ANC has three applications for a medical retailer license under consideration, stated ANC 6B Alcohol Beverage & Cannabis (ABC) Committee Chair Jayaraman. These include UpNSmoke as well as No Kids Allowed at 637 Pennsylvania Ave. SE and DC Dash at 727 Eighth St. SE. Protests for the latter two were supported on the consent agenda, also in pursuit of an SA.

Cannabis Legislation Supported

In January, DC Council passed the Medical Cannabis Enforcement Emergency Amendment Act of 2024, introduced by Councilmember Allen. The legislation gives ABCA the teeth to go after gifting shops, prohibiting them from representing themselves as I-71 shops or selling cannabis at all. Allen’s office said he will introduce a permanent version in the coming weeks. The ANC voted 8-0-1 to support emergency legislation proposed by Councilmember Charles Allen (Ward 6-D) to address a gap in enforcement. The commission requested the DC Council to revise permanent legislation so that the distance permitted between businesses hold-

ALL ARE WELCOME The Next meeting is 2nd Thursday, February 8, 7:00 p.m. Transportation & Public Space Committee meeting Monday, February 5, 7:00 p.m. Virtual Meeting via Zoom Economic Development and Zoning Committee meeting 3rd Wednesday, February 21, 7:00 p.m. Virtual Meeting via Zoom Community Outreach Committee meeting 4th Monday, February 26, 7:00pm Virtual Meeting via Zoom Alcohol Beverage Licensing Committee meeting 4th Tuesday, February 27, 7:00pm 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. Instructions for accessing the meeting via Zoom have been posted under Hot Topics at anc6a.org. Call in information will be posted under Community Calendar at anc6a.org 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.

Advisory Neighborhood Commission 7D “Uniting Communities East and West” Representing the Capitol Hill/Hill East, Eastland Gardens, Kenilworth, Kingman Park, Mayfair, Parkside, River Terrace and Rosedale neighborhoods and the RFK Stadium Complex.

Join us for our Next Virtual Public Meeting Tuesday, February 13, 2024 - 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm How to participate:

By computer: https://zoom.us/j/91628647160 Passcode: anc7d Or by phone: 1-301-715-8592 Webinar ID: 91628647160 Passcode: 776540

YOUR 2023-2024 COMMISSIONERS ELECTED TO SERVE YOU Who

Where

Wendell Felder Chairperson Brian Alcorn Vice Chair Brett Astmann Treasurer Ashley Schapitl Secretary Siraaj Hasan

How to Contact Me

Parkside - 7D03

7d03@anc.dc.gov

Capitol Hill/Hill East – 7D08

7d08@anc.dc.gov

Rosedale – 7D07

7d07@anc.dc.gov

Hill East – 7D09

7d09@anc.dc.gov 7d01@anc.dc.gov

Mike Davis

Eastland Gardens/ Kenilworth – 7D01 River Terrace – 7D04

Ebony Payne

Kingman Park – 7D05

7d05@anc.dc.gov

Marc Friend

Rosedale – 7D06

7d06@anc.dc.gov

Brianne EbyStockert

Hill East – 7D10

7d10@anc.dc.gov

7d04@anc.dc.gov

Vacancy in Single Member District 7D02

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

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

February 2024 H 69

CAPITOL ST.s

ing medical cannabis licenses and schools aligns with regulations for alcohol licenses. Law allows for 300 feet for a business selling cannabis and 400 for one selling alcoholic beverages. ANC 6B also asked that future legislation include a process to request an extension of the protest deadline.

Outstanding Public Service Award

ANC 6B Commissioners voted to give the ANC 6B Public Service Award to former ANC 6B Commissioner and current Barracks Row Main Street Director Brian Ready. The award recognizes an individual who provides outstanding service to the community and facilitates the work of the ANC. In accepting the award, Ready said he was surprised and humbled. He thanked the commissioners for their service, particularly noting his successor, David Sobelsohn. Sobelsohn thanked Ready for the assistance Ready had supplied to him as he took on the role. “I’m proud to have you as a constituent,” Sobelsohn joked. Chair Ryder added that the award was welldeserved, thanking Ready for his work past, present “and hopefully, future.”

Election of New Officers

Eastern Market Community Advisory Committee (EMCAC) Chair Chuck Burger presided over the election of new ANC 6B Executive Officers. Re-elected to their offices were: Edward Ryder (Chair), Frank Avery (Treasurer,) Katie Durkit (Parliamentarian) and David Sobelsohn (Secretary). Vince Marieno was newly elected as Vice Chair, taking over from Chander Jayaraman.

In Other Business

The commission voted to send a letter of condolence on the death of Chris Laskowski to his family and to the Office of Councilmember Allen. Laskowski, who died suddenly Jan. 7, was a father of two and Legislative Director in Allen’s office. The letter remembered him as “an invaluable resource to the commission with an unbreakable commitment to the city and ward he called home.” “Simply put, he made Ward 6 better,” the letter concluded. “He will be missed.” Commissioners voted to draft and post signs near the Southeast Library providing directions 70 H HILLRAG.COM

to Arthur Capper Recreation Center and Northeast Library, alternate facilities while the Southeast Library is under construction. Current signage only offers directions using a QR code. Sobelsohn said that is not helpful to the bulk of in-person users, most of whom go to libraries to use computers and are unlikely to own a smartphone. Commissioners voted unanimously to send a letter regarding illegal construction at 319 Ninth St. SE to the Department of Buildings (DOB), alerting the agency to at least two major projects at that address allegedly undertaken without permits. The letter requests that DOB ensure that the projects, a new back porch and basement excavation, are safe and code compliant. It also requests that DOB respond to concerns with inspection processes raised by this incident. ANC 6B next meets 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 13. See the agenda and information on how to join at anc6b.org u

tion to “regulated, legitimate businesses.” “It was evident that there wasn’t a way to hold the other businesses accountable,” Jen DeMayo, constituent services coordinator for Councilmember Allen said. “New Leaf (located at 416 H St NE) was right there trying to become a legitimate business, but not everyone has taken advantage of this opportunity.” Allen introduced the legislation on Jan. 9, where it was swiftly approved by the council. It awaits DC Mayor Muriel Bowser’s (D) signature. While appreciative of the efforts to address “gaping gaps in the current legislation,” Commissioner Kelty expressed concerns about implementation of areas of outdoor marijuana consumption such as a summer garden. “Many of the commercially zoned businesses directly abut residences and so outdoor smoking is going to create a problem,” Kelty said. The commission took no vote on this matter.

The Commission Voted To: •

New Cannabis Legislation Discussed ANC 6C REPORT by Sarah Payne Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6C met on Jan. 10 via WebEx. Commissioners Christy Kwan (6C01), Leslie Merkle (6C02, secretary), Commissioner Jay Adelstein (6C03), Mark Eckenwiler (6C04, chair), Commissioner Joel Kelty (6C05, treasurer), Commissioner Patricia Eguino (6C06) and Tony Goodman (6C07, vice chair) were in attendance.

ommissioners discussed the implications of the new Medical Cannabis Enforcement Emergency Amendment Act of 2024. The new law authored by Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen (D) would work to close loopholes in the current legislation pertaining to the Alcohol Beverage Cannabis Administration (ABCA)’s enforcement as I-71 “gifting” shops work to transi-

•

re-elect all current ANC officers to continue their roles through 2024. approve the 2024 commission meeting schedule including the following public meeting dates: Feb. 14, March 13, April 10, May 12, June 12, July 10, Sept. 11, Oct. 9, Nov. 13 and Dec. 11.

ANC 6C will meet next on Feb. 14 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

Amidon-Bowen Parents Complain About Healthcare Staffing ANC 6D REPORT by Andrew Lightman Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6D met on Jan. 8 via Zoom. Commissioners Bob Link (6DO1, vice chair), Ronald Collins (6D02, trea-

surer), Gail Fast (6D03), Andrea Pawley (6D04), Ashton Rohmer (6D05), Bruce Levine (6D06, secretary), Fredrica (Rikki) Kramer (6D07, chair) and Rhonda Hamilton (6D08) were in attendance.

“F

or the entire first week of school, we had no one in our health suite,” said Amidon-Bowen parent Sarah Buckley. Her remarks was made to the ANC commissioners as well as to Council Chair Phil Mendelson and Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen, who had been invited to address parental concerns at Amidon-Bowen Elementary School, 401 I St. SW. Amidon-Bowen is part of a cluster of neighborhood elementary schools which share four to five nursing techs supervised by a nurse under a contract with the DC Dept. of Health (DOH). “This (staffing plan) is very concerning for me as a parent of a child with serious food allergies,” said Buckley. The school’s medical staff is completely disorganized, she said. According to Erica Walker, her son, a fifth grader at Amidon, hit his head during gym class. The school’s nurse tech on duty did not check him for a concussion and she had to leave work to check on him. “Please take into consideration having a full-time nurse. You never know when your child’s life with depend on it,” said Walker. Brian Riley had to go to the school to administer his child’s medicine, because there was no one trained to dispense it. “We need full time staffing in our health suite. We need communication with the administration on who that person is,” said Riley. In a few months, schools have

gone from 90 percent staffing to 50, percent Riley said. In his opinion, the cluster healthcare model is failing. Nurses cannot supervise health technicians from a distance, he pointed out. There has been no in-person nurse at Amidon this year, he stated; and the nurse technicians are there 24 hours or less a week. “No one is listening to the parents and we are looking for advocacy from the Council,” Commissioner Pawley told the attending councilmembers. “I know there is no easy situation for the problem with the nursing, but there seems to be no urgency to resolve the issue,” she continued. “I agree with you (Commissioner Pawley) and we will continue to press the administration,” said Chair Mendelson, promising further oversite on the nursing issue at the Council’s upcoming performance and budget hearings. The cluster health contract is not going well, he concurred. The contractor has not been able to hire sufficient staff, he said. “It is a wrong and failed model and we have to course correct,” Councilmember Allen said. “It is frustrating to me that the Amidon community has felt ghosted by DCPS,” he said. “Every school should have a nurse. That is the law,” Chair Mendelson reiterated. “We have legislated for a nurse in every school. We have budgeted for a nurse in every school.” Treasurer Collins suggested terminating the healthcare contract if hiring goals are not bieng met. Commissioner Hamilton suggested seeking aid from close medical facilities such as Unity Healthcare.

Read his story at CapitolHillHistory.org

Photo by Elizabeth Dranitzke

DC native John Harrod considered himself to be an athlete. Yet in the late 1970s, when he realized that visual and performance arts could excite and inspire young people as much as football, John created Market 5, a vibrant venue showcasing the arts in Eastern Market’s North Hall. He also helped lay the ground work for the outdoor flea markets that attract crowds to this day. Learn more about John by reading his oral history at CapitolHillHistory.org. Keep Capitol Hill history alive by becoming a volunteer.

AN INITIATIVE OF THE CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY FOUNDATION.

Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6C P.O. Box 77876 • Washington, D.C. 20013-7787

www.anc6c.org

Next meeting Wednesday, February 14, 2024. Information will be posted on the ANC 6C website.

ANC 6C COMMISSIONERS ANC 6C01 Christy Kwan 6C01@anc.dc.gov ANC 6C02 Leslie Merkle 6C02@anc.dc.gov ANC 6C03 Jay Adelstein 6C03@anc.dc.gov

ANC 6C04 Mark Eckenwiler 6C04@anc.dc.gov ANC 6C05 Joel Kelty 6C05@anc.dc.gov ANC 6C06 Patricia Eguino 6C06@anc.dc.gov ANC 6C07 Tony Goodman 6C07@anc.dc.gov

ANC usually meets the second Wednesday of each month at 7:00 pm, 214 Massachusetts Ave, N.E. Please check the ANC 6C website for dates.

ANC 6C COMMITTEES Alcoholic Beverage Licensing First Monday, 7 pm Contact: drew.courtney@gmail.com Grants Last Thursday, 7 pm Contact: torylord@gmail.com Twitter: @ANC_6C_Grants Environment, Parks, and Events First Tuesday, 7 pm Contact: jgmccann@gmail.com

Transportation and Public Space First Thursday, 7 pm Contact: anc6c.tps@gmail.com Planning, Zoning, and Economic Development First Wednesday, 6:30 pm Contact: 6C04@anc.dc.gov Twitter: @6C_PZE

Amidon Relocation

The parents, commissioners and councilmembers also discussed the issue of Amidon-Bowen’s reloFebruary 2024 H 71

CAPITOL ST.s

cation to the former Meyer Elementary School at 2501 11th St. NW during its modernization. The site is located 3.5 miles away from its present location. For a more detailed discussion, read www.hillrag.com/2023/10/02/is-amidon-bowen-swinging-too-far. While expressing appreciation of Allen’s efforts to craft an alternative, parent Buckley objected to the swing space location, and implored the ANC to push for another solution. The swing space is not workable, Councilmember Allen agreed. DCPS should explore using the neighboring recreational field as an option for a modular campus, he said. However, DCPS typically settles on a solution the year before the move, he said. “So, there is time for advocacy,” Allen continued. Has a feasibility study been done? asked Commissioner Fast. DCPS relies on DGS to analyze alternatives, Allen said; and there has as yet been no report.

Safeway Survey Results

Commissioner Pawley reported the results of the commission’s survey of residents regarding the Safeway at 1100 Fourth St. SW. Residents approved of the location and the friendliness of staff. They did not like staff attitudes, the low stock, the lack of baskets and carts. Other complaints included low quality goods, bad service, unsafe conditions, the closure of self-checkout lines, the lack of cleanliness and frequent shoplifting. Pawley and Commissioner Hamilton have contacted Safeway to resolve residents’ concerns. They are recruiting neighbors to monitor the store to ensure accountability. They promised periodic updates.

Other Matters

Commission appointed Commissioner Pawley as its representative at the Alcohol and Cannabis Board’s (ABC Board) hearing scheduled to consider the renewal of Safeway’s liquor license. Commission voted to send Thrasher’s a letter demanding the removal of their pier kiosk, which violates their cooperative agreement with the commission. The commission supported liquor licenses and cooperative agreements for: 72 H HILLRAG.COM

• •

Hen Quarter at 2121 First St. SW; Cordial Craft Wine Beer and Spirits at 70 District Sq, SW as well as a tasting endorsement; • Oasis Marina at 658 Wharf St. SW. Metropolitan Police Dept. (MPD) Sector 3 Captain Kevin Harding and PSA 105 Lieutenant Elias Danho briefed the commission on public safety. A Dec. 21st triple shooting left two survivors, they said. A Dec. 26th murder has been closed within two days, they reported. The body with a gunshot wound discovered in a trash can on Canal Street SW was declared a homicide, they said. The victim has not yet been identified. On Jan. 21, two sex crimes occurred. Police made an arrest. The US Attorney choose not to charge one of the cases, while the second remains under investigation. The existing commission officers were reelected to another two-year term. Commissioner Rohmer tendered her resignation. The commission approved its 2024 calendar The commission voted to support the developers at 45 Q St. SW in their tussles with the DC Dept. of Transportation (DDOT) over the replacement of lay-bys with bioretention areas ANC 6D meets at 7 p.m. on the second Monday of every month. The next meeting is Feb. 12, 2024. For more information, visit www.anc6d.org. u

Pepco Land Sale ANC 7D REPORT by Sarah Payne Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 7D met Jan. 9 via Zoom. Commissioners Siraaj Hasan (7D01), Wendell Felder (7D03, chair), Commissioner Mike Davis (7D04), 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. Single Member District 7D02 remains vacant.

epco’s has sold 19 acres of land within its 77-acre Benning Road SE property, which was home to a large power plant. The land was sold to ProLogis, a logistics real estate and supply chain logistics company, for $10.25 million in December. Logistics real estate involves the rental and sale of warehouses, distribution centres, flexible spaces and other industrial buildings with storage facilities. The site requires significant environmental remediation. The sale came as a surprise to many members of the community. Commissioners expressed concern about the site’s future. “There are many uses for that particular area of land that we thought we were well engaged with Pepco on,” Commissioner Hasan noted. “To hear that there’s been some mysterious sale of that land is disheartening to say the least.” “A lot of residents in this community are extremely frustrated,” echoed commission Chair Felder who noted the multitude of possible community-focused uses for the space after clean-up efforts have commenced. “We want the same things and the same quality of amenities as other parts of the District,” Felder said. “We’re strongly opposed to this.” The commission voted to send a letter to ProLogis and Pepco Holdings expressing concern about the sale, to “stimulate engagement and discussions” with both companies on a community-focused use of the land and to emphasize the importance of the environmental remediation of the property. Later in the meeting, Senior Manager of Environmental Management for Pepco Holdings Jamie Hill briefed the commission on Pepco’s plans for a Benning Road Facility Remedial Investigation and Feasibility Study. The project will investigate the site conditions, including the health and environmental impacts of current conditions, determine whether historical operations have contributed to the contamination of river sentiments and establish options for addressing contamination. The public comment period began on Dec. 4 and will remain open through Jan. 23. Pepco plans to address public comments and the District Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) will subsequently select cleanup action. Visit doee. dc.gov/node/110472 for more information and to submit a comment.

Other Matters

Tony Dugger, Adjudication Ombudsman at DC Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), briefed the commission about the traffic ticket adjudication process. The agency, created in 2014, works to inform citizens of their adjudication rights and assist them through the processes of dispute, reconsideration and appeal through the DC Superior Court. Metropolitan Police Department Captain Kathleen Monahan briefed the commission about the uptick in crime reported for 2023. Monahan said the department is concentrating efforts on assaults, robberies and stolen cars. She encouraged owners of Hyundai and Kia cars to utilize steering wheel clubs to prevent theft of these vehicles.

The Commission Voted To: •

re-elect current commission officers to serve through 2024. • send a letter of support to the zoning commission for the proposed zoning map amendment to redesignate (261 17th St. SE) from an RF-1 zone to an RA-2 zone in order to facilitate the development of “much needed” housing in the neighborhood and to promote “inclusive home ownership.” • send a letter of support to the Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) for special exception zoning relief for the rear yard and lot occupancy requirements for a residential property at 1635 C St. SE. • send a letter to the DC Department of Public Works (DPW) requesting prioritization of parking enforcement around Rosedale Recreation Center. • send a letter to the DC Department of Transportation (DDOT) requesting augmented no parking signage on the 600 Block of 18th Place NE and 1800 Block of Rosedale Street NE. • send a letter to DDOT requesting a study and/or agency recommendations for improving motor vehicle circulation, parking and emergency vehicle access around the Rosedale Recreation Center, Rosedale Library and Monument Academy. • appoint Commissioner Felder to the DPW Benning Road Zero Waste Campus Community Advisory Team. ANC 7D will meet next on Feb. 13 at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. You can learn more about the commis-

sion and register to attend at 7d0761.wixsite. com/anc7d-1. Sarah Payne is a reporter for Capital Community News. She can be reached at sarahp@hillrag.com. u

The 11th Street Priority Bus Lane ANC 8F REPORT by Andrew Lightman Advisory Neighborhood Commission 8F (ANC 8F) met on Nov. 28. Commissioners Nic Wilson (8F01), Rick Murphree (treasurer, 8F02), Brian Strege (secretary, 8F03) and Edward Daniels (chair, 8F04), Clayton Rosenberg (vice chair, 8F05) were in attendance.

DOT Transportation Planner Kevin Harrison briefed the commission on the agency’s 11th Street Bus Priority Project. DDOT is building a 70-mile bus priority network across the city. Buses are more efficient people movers than cars, stated Harrison. The project will create a more reliable bus system with reduced wait times, he said. It also supports the movement of emergency vehicles and will make road safety improvements. The project connects M Street SE in the Navy Yard with Historic Anacostia, Harrison said. Planning is ongoing starting with a needs assessment, he added. The agency will then refine their concept and issue a Notice of Intent (NOI). Harrison promised formal opportunities for community input. Construction will start in 2025, he stated. Treasurer Murphree expressed concern about losing car travel lanes on the bridge going into Old Anacostia. Congestion backs up to highway, he pointed out. “I hope that they (DDOT) will give some sort of care and love for those living east of the river,” retorted Murphree. “I am not saying we are not going to reduce the roadway capacity,” Harrison responded. “I would like you to consider more options than adding to the congestion there (Old An-

Courtesy: https://buspriority.ddot.dc.gov/pages/11thstse

acostia),” said Commissioner Wilson. Wilson asked Harrison to return after the completion of the project with data outlining its impact. For more information, visit Buspriority. ddot.dc.gov/pages/11thstse.

Other Matters

The commission voted to accept the settlement agreement with an entertainment endorsement for Tom’s Watch Bar at 1250 Half St. SE. It also voted to withdrawn its protest of the establishment’s license. The commission voted to accept the cooperative agreement and support a liquor license for Ama in the AC Hotel at 867 New Jersey Ave SE. Treasurer Murphree announced he would be remainin g in his position through the end of 2024. The commission approved the 2024 meeting schedule and reelected their existing officers. Commission approved its 2024 Budget, its choice of bank, participation in the ANC Security Fund, its required initial $50 payments and the First Quarter Treasurer’s Report. 2024 will feature hybrid meetings. ANC 8F generally meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month. The next meeting is scheduled for Feb. 23 at DDOT Headquarters at 250 M St. SE at 7 p.m. For more information, visit anc8f.org. u February 2024 H 73

CAPITOL ST.s

Bulletin Board Ice Yards with DC Polar Plunge at Yard’s Park

On Saturday, Feb. 24, noon to 4 p.m., gather your friends and as many layers as possible to enjoy another installation of Ice Yards. This arctic experience is jam-packed with frosty fun including axthrowing, live music, a photo booth, a snowboard simulator, glacial Instagrammable moments, live ice carving, and giveaways. Warm up at a toasty fire pit with snacks and beverages from participating neighborhood restaurants. The Yards and the Polar Bear Plunge are joining forces to benefit the Special Olympics District of Columbia. An above-ground swimming pool will be erected at The Yards Park, and participants “take the plunge” to the cheers of the crowd. To plunge, you pay $10 and raise/give a minimum of $100. College students pay $10 to register and raise/give a minimum of $50. Watch for free. Yards Park, 355 Water St. SW. give.specialolympicsdc.org/event/2024dc-polar-plunge/e473979.

Cupid’s Undie Run (a party & fun run in your undies, all for charity.)

Every February, thousands of undie runners in cities across the US come together, whether it be in-person or virtually, to support those affected by NF, a group of genetic conditions that cause tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body. DC’s run is on Saturday, Feb. 17, noon to 4 p.m. (run starts at 2 p.m.), at the Wharf ’s Union Stage, 740 Water St. SW. Cupid’s Undie Run kicks off with drinking and dancing, then participants jog it out with a mile(ish) run and end it all with an epic dance party. Registration is $42 for individuals. cupids.org/cupidsundie-run. 74 H HILLRAG.COM

Village Voices Presents Binyamin Appelbaum

On Monday Feb. 5 at 7 p.m. on zoom, Binyamin Appelbaum will address the question of why Washington doesn’t have enough housing, and what we can do about it. Appelbaum is the lead writer on economics and business for the New York Times editorial board. He was previously a Washington correspondent for the Times, covering the Federal Reserve and other aspects of economic policy. The economics of housing has been one of his constant concerns, focusing on state rules that impact the area’s housing availability, including a cri-

DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in the District.

DCHFA, Resourceininthe theDistrict. District. DCHFA,Your YourHomeownership Homeownership Resource

DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in the District. DC Open Doors

DC DC Open Doors Open Doors is your key to homeownership in the DCDC Open Doors is your key to homeownership in the rates and Doors city. Open This program offers competitive interest city. This program offers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance first trust DC Open Doors is your keyon to lower mortgage insurance costs oncosts first trust

homeownership inresident the city. This homebuyer or aresident D.C. homebuyer or a D.C. , be purchasing a home , be purchasing a home in the in the DC Open Doors program offers competitive interest District of Columbia. District of Columbia. DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership in the

rates lower mortgage city. Thisand program offers competitiveinsurance interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on first trust costs on first trust mortgages.You HPAP provides interest free deferred loans forloans downfor down HPAP deferred homebuyer or a D.C.interest resident are not provides required to befree a first-time , be purchasing a home in the as a co-administrator of homebuyer orserves a D.C. resident serves as a co-administrator of District of Columbia. this DC Department of Housing and Community DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) first-time home buyer tothis qualify for DCOD. You must, Development’s (DHCD) first-time home buyer program. program. be purchasing a home in however, HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down the District of Columbia.

serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) first-time buyer years or older who have fallen behindhome on insurance program. DC4ME and tax payments as a result of their reverse years or older who have fallen behindmortgage. on insurance Qualified District homeowners can receive up to and tax payments a result of their reverse mortgage. DC4ME providesasmortgage assistance Qualified District homeowners can receive up to

with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME mortgage assistance optional years or provides older who have fallen behindwith on insurance down paymentisassistance totoD.C. government DC4ME offered current fulland tax payments as resultto ofcurrent their reverse mortgage. employees. DC4ME is aoffered full-time DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with Qualified District homeowners can receive up to optional time District government employees, District government employees, including employees down payment assistance to D.C. government of District government-based instrumentalities, employees. DC4ME is offered to current full-time including employees of District independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools,employees District government employees, including and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's government-based instrumentalities, of District government-based instrumentalities, employer falls under the oversight of the Council of independent agencies, D.C. Publicwith Charter Schools, DC4ME provides mortgage assistance optional the District of Columbia. independent agencies, D.C. Public andpayment organizations, provided applicant/borrower's down assistance to D.C. the government employer falls under theorganizations, oversight the Council of employees. DC4ME is offered to currentoffull-time Charter Schools, and the District of Columbia. District government employees, including employees the applicant/borrower’s COVID-19 ofprovided District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, DC MAP COVID-19 provides financial assistance employer falls impacts underofthe oversight ofto and organizations, the those affected by the provided theapplicant/borrower's COVID-19 employer falls under the oversight of pandemic. Qualified can receive aCouncil loan of of COVID-19 the Council ofborrowers the District ofthe Columbia. thetoDC District ofCOVID-19 Columbia. up $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage MAP provides financial assistance to for up to six months.

those affected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Qualified borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage COVID-19 for up to six months. DC MAP COVID-19 provides financial assistance to those affected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Qualified borrowers can receive a loan of Visit www.DCHFA.org up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage tomonths. apply to any of DCHFA’s homeownership programs. forhow up to six

Homebuyers Info Sessions are Back at DCHFA Register at bit.ly/dcopendoors VisitAVENUE, www.DCHFA.org 815 FLORIDA NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20001 • 202.777.1600 • WWW.DCHFA.ORG

how to apply to any of DCHFA’s homeownership programs. February 2024 H 75 Visit www.DCHFA.org 815 FLORIDA AVENUE, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20001 • 202.777.1600 • WWW.DCHFA.ORG

CAPITOL ST.s

CHRS Preservation Café: SE Library Restoration

The Capitol Hill Restoration Society (CHRS) presents a virtual Preservation Café about the upcoming restoration of the Southeast Library on Tuesday, Feb. 27, at 6:30 p.m. Jaspreet Pahwa, director of Capital Planning and Construction, and Marcha Saccocio, director of community engagement for the DC Public Library, will present the virtual talk “Restoring and Reimagining Capitol Hill’s Southeast Library.” The SE Library closed for a multi-year $33 million renovation early in January. The renovation will modernize, expand and restore parts of the historic library, which is one of the oldest libraries in the DC Public Library System. This CHRS presentation is free. Read more and make your reservation at chrs.org.

tique of the role of historic districts in the availability of affordable housing. Village Voices presentations are free and open to the public and sponsored by Capitol Hill Village. Register and join the on-line discussion at capitolhill.helpfulvillage.com/events/11276.

Friends of the SW Library Book Sale

The Friends of the SW Library are holding a book sale on Saturday, Feb. 10, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday, 1 to 3 p.m., on the second floor of the Southwest Library, 900 Wesley Pl. SW. Most items are $1 or less with a $5 bag sale on Sunday, 2 to 3 p.m. Proceeds go to library supplies and programs not provided for in the city’s budget. They take cash, checks and Venmo. There is some parking in the rear of the building. Email friendsofswlibrary@gmail.com if you have questions.

Call for Authors and Vendors for Tombs & Tomes Book Festival

On Sunday, April 21, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., experience the enchantment of books, stories, and the written word in Capitol Hill’s historic cemetery. Vendor applications are now open for authors, publishers, book artists, calligraphers, book binders, artists, crafts people and vendors working with book related themes, as well as baked goods and snacks for guests. Applications close Feb. 16. Once selected, a $50 vendor fee is required to reserve your spot. Please note this is an outdoor event in the cemetery and will be open to dogs on leash during the event. Contact staff at staff@ congressionalcemetery.org. 76 H HILLRAG.COM

Just Published: DC’s 2024 Small Business Opportunity Guide

The Small Business Opportunity Guide, affectionately known as the “DC Green Book,” is a valuable resource and a testament to the commitment of the District to support local entrepreneurs and small business owners. This comprehensive guide, with its rich history, has played a pivotal role in the growth and success of small businesses in DC. Supported by the Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD), the DC Green Book serves as a one-stop resource for small business owners, startups, and aspiring entrepreneurs. The 140-

page volume plays a crucial role in nurturing the growth of small businesses, promoting economic inclusion, and supporting the vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem of the city. greenbookdc.com.

Roller Derby New Skater Boot Camp!

Participants come from all walks of life, united by their love of roller derby. They work to empower each other, to build confidence, and to build strength as individuals and a team. They’re always looking for more friends to join their community. Whether you’re interested in becoming a derby skater, a skating or non-skating official, or just volunteering with them, they’d love to

Photo: Patrick Serfass, 2022

The Capitol Hill Home Photo Contest

In anticipation of the 66th anniversary of the Mother’s Day House and Garden Tour, the Capitol Hill Restoration Society is sponsoring a photo contest—The Capitol Hill Home. Entries are due March 5. Winning images receive two passes to the 2023 House and Garden Tour and will be displayed on the CHRS website. View details and past contest winners at chrs. org/photo-contest-2023.

February 2024 H 77

CAPITOL ST.s

DC Chinatown Celebrates the Year of the Dragon

On Sunday, Feb. 11, 2 p.m., the streets of DC Chinatown will fill will revelers and spectators as they celebrate the Year of the Dragon at the DC Chinese Lunar New Year Parade. The community-based parade will include a range of cultural and community performers. The finale will feature a firecracker show in the middle of H Street. People born in the Year of the Dragon are charismatic, intelligent, confident, powerful and they are naturally lucky and gifted. In everything that they do, they tend to do it to the best of their ability with high standards and are destined for good fortune and greatness. Find the parade participants listing and the parade route at dcparade.com.

Wear closed-toed shoes. Registration required. For more information before the event, contact Emily Castelli at ecastelli2@anacostiaws.org or call 301-699-6204 x103. anacostiaws.org.

Ladies Night at Frager’s Hardware (a DIY event for women)

On Tuesday, Feb. 13, 5 to 8 p.m., Frager’s, 1115 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, is “calling all ladies.” Ladies Night offers customers a hands-on introduction to home improvement while having fun. During the event, guests are invited to: shop 20% off the entire store from 5 to 8 p.m. (some restrictions apply); snag a Goodie Bag (first 50 guests); chat with their vendors for ideas on using some of their favorite products enjoy free food, and enter to win great prizes; sharpen one knife, and get the second one sharpened for free (limit two free knives per customer.); and listen to music provided by DJ Ace. The event is free to attend. Read more at acehardwaredc.com/pages/fragers-hardware.

Second Wind Chorus Begins Rehearsals

Second Wind Chorus begins its Spring 2024 term and resumes rehearsals on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 12:30 to 2 p.m. They welcome anyone without audition, whether they performed professionally, have never sung before, play musical instruments or can’t read music. The common factor is that they enjoy learning the music and singing together. Their accomplished conductor Alix Evans is a gifted soprano, excellent teacher and encouraging leader. Their repertoire is diverse. They all contribute to pay for their conductor and accompanist, but no one who demonstrates financial inability to contribute will be denied. The first rehearsal you attend is complimentary. Research has established that choral singing significantly improves health by keeping minds sharp, elevating mood and enhancing beneficial social connections. Visit Secondwindchorusdc.com or call Shirley Rosenfeld at 202- 544-1646 to learn more. talk to you. Their next new skater training starts on Sunday, Feb. 4 and will run for four weeks. Contact visitors@ dcrollerderby.org for more information.

your own music stand. RSVP to Catherine@CHAW.org to let them know you are coming and what instrument you will be playing.

Drop-in Chamber Music Sessions at CHAW

Habitat Restoration Workday at Kingman

If you are a musician looking for others to play with, CHAW is launching drop-in chamber music reading sessions for musicians with moderate and advanced experience on Thursdays, Feb. 8 and 22, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Capitol Hill Arts Workshop, 545 Seventh St. SE. Music will be provided or bring your own scores. Please bring 78 H HILLRAG.COM

On Saturdays, Feb. 17, March 2 and 23, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., join the Anacostia Watershed Society (AWS) and National Links Trust (NLT) for a Habitat Restoration Workday. During this workday, volunteers will help with their invasive plant control and revegetation efforts along the riverside area of Kingman Island at Langston Golf Course.

Community Achievement Awardees 2024 Old Town’s George Washington Birthday Parade

On Monday, Feb. 19, 1 to 3 p.m., Alexandria residents and visitors will line the streets of Old Town Alexandria to cheer on the oldest and largest George Washington Birthday parade in the country. The parade features drum corps, color guards, bands, community and fraternal organizations, youth groups, local merchants, city dignitaries and, of course, General Washington and Martha Washington. Visit washingtonbirthday.com/20234-paraderoute-copy for this year’s parade route. washingtonbirthday.com.

Learn About EITC Tax Credit and Free Tax Return Prep

Capital Area Asset Builders (CAAB) announces the launch of the 2024 DC EITC Campaign. The #DCEITC Campaign is a citywide, cross-sector initiative that promotes economic security and asset building for low- and moderate-income individuals and families by providing access to information on the Federal and DC Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), free tax preparation services and financial capacity building opportunities throughout Washington, DC. For more information, visit caab.org.

Each spring the Capitol Hill Community Foundation gives three Community Achievement Awards, honors that go to individuals who have enriched our neighborhood life in a variety of ways. This year the awards will be given to Vera Oyé Yaa-Anna, Michael Witmore and Jane Lang who will be honored and celebrated at a gala fundraiser in May. Vera Oyé Yaa-Anna is a one-ofa-kind educator whose programs for children, offered at local elementary schools, summer camps and other venues, range from cooking and nutrition to African drumming to dance and storytelling, all reflecting the heritage she brings from her native Liberia. She will be honored for over twenty years of joyful sharing with children on Capitol Hill. Michael Witmore has served since 2011 as the Director of the Folger Shakespeare Library, leading that internationally known institution through an $80.5 million dollar renovation. When the Library reopens this spring it will feature, for the first time, a complete display of the library’s 82 first folio editions of Shakespeare’s plays sure to attract visitors from all over the world. Visitors will also enjoy new exhibit spaces, gardens, and a café and bar where neighbors can gather. Jane Lang is a lawyer and philanthropist whose vision, generosity and tireless efforts led to the transformation of the Atlas on H Street NE from an abandoned movie theater into a vibrant center for the performing arts with several intimate, state of the art performance spaces as well as rehearsal rooms and a dance studio. The Atlas has been an anchor of renewal and change on H Street and continues to be a beacon of optimism for the city. These individuals will be honored on Wednesday, May 22 with a reception and ceremony at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. For information about sponsorships and tickets please contact Nancy Lazear at nlazear@aol.com.

SE Library’s Monthly Book Sales Resume (but there’s a catch)

The Friends of the Southeast Library and the Friends of the Northeast Library have joined forces to restart the SE Library’s monthly book sales now that SE Library is closed for renovations. The new book sale location is NE Library, 330 Seventh St. NE (corner of Seventh Street and Maryland Avenue NE). This partnership’s first sale will be on Saturday, March 9, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., if they have enough book donations—that’s the catch. In order to proceed, they need books in good condition. Novels, history, popular science, biographies, mysteries, science fiction, other non-fiction, kids, hardcovers, paperbacks are all welcome. They don’t want books in poor condition, reference books, outdated computer manuals, textbooks, or magazines. They accept CDs and DVDs, but not older technologies. The donation bin is on the lower level of the NE Library which means that you can only donate books when the library is open. You can check the library’s time schedule on its website at dclibrary.org/plan-visit/northeast-library. They also need additional volunteers to sort books and to help run the sales. If interested, contact Bob Gellman at bob@bobgellman.com or Vince Morris at vsmorris@gmail.com.

Hypothermia Alerts

If you see someone outside in need of shelter or a welfare check, call 202-399-7093 or dial 311. u February 2024 H 79

80 H HILLRAG.COM

HOMES& GARDENS

2023 Wrapping Up Another Great Year DCs Residential Real Estate – What’s Next?

023 had many bright spots in our real estate market. First, prices remained relatively steady. Single family properties median and average prices were $846,000 (-8%) and $1,081,000 (-5%) respectively. We never like to see minus numbers when compared to a previous year, but as a share of the market, properties priced above $500,000 declined in 2023. There are two reasons. First, higher interest rates had many buyers and sellers taking a pause… particularly true in the upper brackets. Let’s look at the number of sales in 2023. In hindsight, 2020 is the most recent high with 4,867 sales citywide. Q1 of Covid year (2020) we were in the tank. By the end of the year, we were setting records. Go figure. By 2022, 4063 sales and 2023, 3391— a drop of 30% from 2020 through 2023! We can blame some of this on higher interest rates. But a bigger factor has been and continues to be a lack of inventory. We are not building many new single family homes in DC and our older population is finding ways to age in place. There are lots of positive reasons for that and it’s a trend that won’t be changing any time soon. As we look to 2024, if interest rates continue to decline to say to 4.5% - 5% range, we should see a bigger surge in buyers, more competition and slightly higher prices. The continued problem of less inventory will bring stable to slightly rising prices. But we are all guessing at this point. There is lots of uncertainty in the world right now and many things could happen to cause issues in our marketplace. It’s an elec-

by Don Denton tion year and that brings uncertainty. However, we continue to have a diversifying economy and the impact of election results doesn’t have the impact that maybe it once had. To the extent that there is an impact, it will be negligible. What is for sure, with razor thin margins in both the Senate and the House, Hill staffers will freeze in place (relative to buying a home) until they are sure they still have a job after the election in November. Same for senior level Federal employees. One pattern that will not change is that historically 60% of our contracts are written in the first six months of the year. That leaves 40% in

the second half of the year. Things still sell in the second half but there is a chilling decrease. The bottom line, if you think you want to sell in 2024, get it on the market and under contract before the 4th of July! Don Denton is Associate Broker at Coldwell Banker. 202256-1353, ddenton@cbmove.com u

February 2024 H 81

HOMES&GARDENS

950 booths of nursery-related products are displayed at the Baltimore Convention Center in mid-January and is one of the largest nursery garden trade shows in the United States.

The Biggest Garden Show Around

n mid-January, the Baltimore Convention Center hosts one of the country’s biggest nursery garden trade shows. It was established in 1970 and is sponsored by nurserymen’s associations in Maryland , Virginia and West Virginia. For over 50 years, the trade show, simply known as MANTS, has been growing and adapting to new innovations in gardening. The purpose of the show is to stimulate commerce and over 11,000 visitors attend the three-day event. The motto of MANTS is it means business. By the number of serious dealmaking conversations in the more than 950 booths, business was brisk this year. Norman Cole, current President of MANTS says that “87% of attendees either make or influence their company’s buying decisions from their MANTS experience.” Every year the board of the tradeshow surveys the vendors to see what

82 H HILLRAG.COM

Article and photos by Rindy O’Brien

MANTS is a great way for local garden centers and landscapers to find out availability of plants for the spring season

is working and what changes might improve the experience. Each year the overwhelming answer is nothing, keep the show the way it is. There is a waiting list of more than 150 vendors to get in each year, so something must be working. This is the place to come to see what plants, and especially shrubs and trees, are going to be available this spring for purchase by landscapers and garden centers. The vendors come from almost every state, as well as Canada, Europe, Asia, Australia, and South Africa. Over time, MANTS transitioned from showing only green plants to providing exhibitors everything you need to operate a nursery business. For instance, computer software companies, five different insurance companies, GPS services, and other business services have booths. Nine different vendors provide choices of greenhouses and equipment.

Come Visit Our Store! Plants! Plants! Plants! For Indoors & Outdoors

Urban Garden Center on Capitol Hill

Garden Design, Installation, & Maintenance

202-543-5172 ginkgogardens.com

January Hours: M-F 8 am – 6:30 pm Sat 9 am – 6 pm Sun 11 am – 5 pm

911 11th St SE Washington DC 20003

Building Smart from the Start

301 642 5182 o

derek@thomasdesignconsultants.com

CHECK OUR GALLERY AT: thomasdesignconsultants.com February 2024 H 83

HOMES&GARDENS

to protect the plants and their livelihood. Dr. Jake Shreckhise’s recent research which focused on growth, cold-hardiness, flowering, and disease resistance of Camellia cultivars was of special interest. A lot of winter blooming camellias are seen this time of year on Capitol Hill. The Arboretum staff have been leaders in the propagation and discovery of new varieties of camellias over the years. The nine-year study showed that camellias were greatly impacted by low temperatures. The study measured growth and blooms, and the plants were evaluated for leaf spot and edema. Local DC business, Bloom, soil enhancer, had a booth promoting several of their products. April Thompson. Senior Director of Bloom educated visitors on the benefits of the EPA certified Class A biosolids soil produced at DC Blue Plains Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Whether you need an “Earthlifter,” a new kind of hoe, or need the “Turbo II” Humberbee, rough terrain equipment that lifts up to 4,000 pounds, you can find it here.

Educating as well as Selling

One of the first booths I stumbled across was Tree Diaper, a company out of Ashland, Virginia. It is a patented multi-functional plant rain and irrigation system that catches and releases rain or irrigation water year-round. The product, which looks like a black donut to go around your tree, can prevent root rot. And guess who is one of the Tree Diaper customers? It is our own US Capitol grounds. The Architect of the Capitol arborists have been trying them out. Amy McHugh, who handles sales and technical support for Tree Diaper, says being at MANTS not only lets her meet users of the product, but gives her a chance to answer questions and provide tips for customers. Mulch can be put on top of the donut. The US National Arboretum was also present at the show this year. The booth was very busy with attendees asking questions about the research being done on nursery-grown woody plants at the Dept. of Agriculture’s McMinnville, Tennessee facility. The type of research conducted by the Dept. of Agriculture staff is invaluable to nurseries, who need 84 H HILLRAG.COM

Updated USDA Planting Zones

A large map showing the updated USDA plant hardiness zones was also a popular feature at the National Arboretum’s booth. On November 15, 2023, USDA issued changes in the country’s hardiness zones. More than half the country went a half a step up to warmer conditions. Capitol Hill’s zone changed from 7B to 8A. In most of the areas, there was a 2.5 degree increase in warmth. The zones are developed to determine which perennial plants are most likely to thrive at standard temperatures. Arboretum staff said that the change is important to note, but it is not too dramatic in the overall scheme of things. It is something that gardeners will start seeing this spring and should note when buying their new plants.

DC’s Bloom Soil Conditioner

Another local producer, Bloom, was present at the show. Bloom is

produced at DC’s Blue Plains wastewater plant which is one of the world’s largest and most advanced wastewater facilities. It is located just off Interstate 295 on the way from Capitol Hill to National Harbor. April Thompson, Senior Director of Bloom, noted that a lot of visitors had stopped by the booth, and it was great to see so much interest in the DC based product. Bloom is a soil conditioner made from EPAcertified Class A Exceptional Quality biosolids. It takes the wastewater from our homes and turns it into a soil conditioner that is rich in organic matter and slow release nutrients. A common question is whether the soil enhancer smells like poop. And the answer is that it is low in odor and has an earthy or musty smell. The product is generally sold in large quantities and used to enhance areas like golf courses, parks, and farms. In the DC area, the National Cathedral, Andrews Air Force Base golf course, and the Chevy Chase Club and golf course are all happy customers. The product can be purchased at local garden centers in small bags for home use. The staff of DC Natives, a local nonprofit which helps create gardens featuring native plants uses Bloom in some of their pollinator gardens. MANTS is an amazing experience and lived up to the strong endorsement that serious gardeners have given it over the years. Its breadth and scope served as a great reminder of all the different kinds of businesses that make up the nursery industry. From behind-the-scenes companies, like Bloom to deep research about the impact of temperature shifts and diseases that threaten plants to the fun and variety of containers and stones, it truly takes a village.

The US National Arboretum had an informational booth and had many kinds of plant research and reports to share. A map of the new hardiness zones was of keen interest to many, and a QR code helped attendees find the right zone. Capitol Hill has moved a half of zone to a warmer zone.

Rindy O’Brien looks forward to the new gardening season. To contact: Rindyobrien@gmail.com u

734 7th St. SE o: 202.547.2707

joeltruittmanagement.com info@joeltruitt.com

MOVING OUT, SELLING, RENTING OR DECLUTTERING YOUR HOME? The Capitol Hill Garden Club presents

Dear Garden Problem Lady, by Wendy Blair I know we celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14 with hearts and flowers but – why flowers? Why not? Doesn’t everyone enjoy a beautiful bouquet of flowers? Then there’s the long tradition – not of early Christian martyrs so much as the American advertising industry. Cupids, hearts, cards, chocolates and flowers. As you strip the leaves off those red roses that have no smell and show them off in a tall vase, you can enjoy the chocolates. Love – sometimes beautiful, sometimes fleeting – makes the world go round. February 14 falls on a Wednesday, and 2024 is a Leap year! My love has given me a beautiful potted cyclamen plant. How long will it last? Most cyclamens die of root-rot from being over-watered. Your Cyclamen will last indoors as long as you keep it away from direct sun, in a cool place – as low as 45’F at night and 65’F max during the day. It needs indirect sun and very little water. Water rarely, when soil is dry, and only around the rim of the pot, never to the heart of the plant. After about 4 months the flowers will fade and the leaves slowly drop. It will be going dormant. Put it in a dark cool place like a shed. In early autumn you can begin watering again, and then adding high-phosphorus fertilizer. New leaves will appear. Look online for instructions on re-potting if you think the plant needs new soil.

My daffodils came up on December 9, 2023. I worried they’d bloom way early, but in mid-January – winter! Temperatures in the teens. Freezing cold. Big snow. Now, as I ask this, the thermometer is going back up into the sixties. Tell me please if there’s anything I should, or even can, do in my garden right now. Well asked. Your daffodils may survive. The most damaging part of very cold weather is desiccating wind, which robs inner moisture from leaves and roots. Of course, severe cold itself kills too. And whipsaw sudden high temperatures again, followed by more winter, cause the most damage of all. But what can you do? – except clean up – and next year prepare ahead. But “clean up” means collect broken-off branches only – nothing more. Making any cuts can increase existing damage. Deep rooted plants can survive. Others that appear totally dead may also survive. Best to wait. “Preparing ahead” means mulching all tender shrubs in the autumn with several inches of porous, light mulch. Vulnerable shallow-rooted camellias can be protectively wrapped in foam or burlap.

WE CAN HELP! • Repair and paint • Replace worn-out fixtures, • Check windows & doors to close tight & lock • Replace kitchen & bath countertops and cabinets • Replace tub with low-curb walk-in shower, tile, add grab bars and handrails • Replace or restore the front door • Add lighting

YOU NAME IT, CALL US. Quality Since 1972

All meetings of the Capitol Hill Garden Club are free and open to the public. On Tuesday February 13th we will discuss “Foraging for Mushrooms 101” on zoom. Find the link at capitolhillgardenclub.org. Feeling beset by gardening problems? Send them to www.hillrag.com/editor. Your problems might even prove instructive to others and help them feel superior to you. Complete anonymity is assured. u

February 2024 H 85

HOMES&GARDENS

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. DEANWOOD 4502 Lee St NE 3957 Ames St NE 4915 Central Ave NE 848 50th Pl NE 845 52nd St NE 18 53rd St SE 231 57th Pl NE 852 52nd St NE 4723 Brooks St NE 270 56th St NE 248 56th Pl NE

$528,000 $487,500 $425,000 $415,000 $415,000 $414,999 $405,000 $402,000 $300,000 $250,000 $187,000

DUPONT CIRCLE 1632 15th St NW 1745 Willard St NW

$2,500,000 $1,962,000

ECKINGTON 46 Quincy Pl NE 54 Rhode Island Ave NE

$900,000 $539,000

3 3 3 2 3 2 2 3 3 2 2

NEIGHBORHOOD

PRICE BR

FEE SIMPLE ANACOSTIA 2214 Chester St SE 1113 Chicago St SE 1444 Minnesota Ave SE 1373 Morris Rd SE 1717 Erie St SE 1402 18th Pl SE

$585,000 $555,000 $495,000 $406,000 $385,000 $300,000

BARRY FARMS 2607 12th Pl SE

$485,000

CAPITOL HILL 409 New Jersey Ave SE 1014 Massachusetts Ave NE 208 6th St SE 319 C St SE 1130 Park St NE 425 5th St NE 1313 Corbin Pl NE 1531 Independence Ave SE 30 Kings Ct SE 1803 A St SE

COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 424 Newton Pl NW 1319 Taylor St NW 1404 Perry Pl NW 737 Gresham Pl NW 4116 13th St NW

CONGRESS HEIGHTS 3826 1st St SE 21 Atlantic St SE 333 Raleigh St SE 623 Atlantic St SE

86 H HILLRAG.COM

3 3 3 3 3 4 4

$3,500,000 $1,810,000 $1,405,000 $1,320,000 $879,000 $850,000 $800,000 $798,000 $765,000 $875,000

5 6 4 5 3 2 2 2 2 3

$1,020,000 $750,000 $749,000 $630,000 $562,000

4 5 3 3 4

$480,000 $434,000 $399,999 $399,999 $330,000

FORT LINCOLN 3809 Comm. Joshua Barney Dr NE

$599,000

HILL CREST 2505 Palmer Pl SE

$739,900

KALORAMA 2438 Belmont Rd NW 2117 Leroy Pl NW 2021 Allen Pl NW 1831 Mintwood Pl NW

$8,200,000 $3,000,000 $1,825,000 $1,800,000

3 4

3 4 3 2

4 3 3 3 3

$685,000

PARK VIEW 507 Lamont St NW

$925,000

RANDLE HEIGHTS 2479 Alabama Ave SE 3434 24th St SE 1839 S S St SE 1902 Good Hope Rd SE

$465,000 $412,000 $340,000 $265,000 $849,000

14TH STREET CORRIDOR 1314 W St NW #D

$475,000

ADAMS MORGAN 1654 Euclid St NW #301 1954 Columbia Rd NW #101

$800,000 $254,500

2315 Altamont Pl SE #204

$45,000

45 R St NW #1

$630,000

CAPITOL HILL 5 6 2 7

1130 Maryland Ave NE #3 520 E St NE #404 1511 A St NE #1

CAPITOL HILL EAST

$730,000 $477,500 $272,600

LILY PONDS

CAPITOL RIVERFRONT

3362 Clay St NE

$1,095,000 $305,000

5 2

MARSHALL HEIGHTS 4732 B St SE 5500 B St SE 4686 A St SE

$460,000 $425,000 $255,000

3 3 3

CENTRAL

COLUMBIA HEIGHTS

$1,122,000 $815,000 $700,000 $550,000

4 3 3 2

$519,600 $349,000 $329,000

1211 Van St SE #714 $240,200 CARVER LANGSTON 1026 18th St NE #5 $319,500

920 I St NW #702 920 I St NW #910 MT VERNON TRIANGLE 219 Morgan St NW $1,555,000 5 631 D St NW #642 1150 K St NW #1402 2201 L St NW #710 NOMA 1171 Abbey Pl NE $925,000 3 1519 D St NE 1523 D St SE 1706 Bay St SE 1419 S Capitol St SW

CONGRESS HEIGHTS

3 3 2 2

DUPONT

1619 Swann St NW #3 1 Scott Cir NW #118 1518 Swann St NW #3 1401 17th St NW #212 1511 22nd St NW #31 1545 18th St NW #522 1601 18th St NW #707

1444 Belmont St NW #302 1390 Kenyon St NW #324 3319 11th St NW #5 3573 Warder St NW #2 1020 Fairmont St NW #2 2656 15th St NW #203

2 1 2

$432,000 $150,000

3 2

$665,000 $295,000 $960,000 $660,000 $560,000 $399,999 $385,500

2 0

FAIRFAX VILLAGE 3816 W St SE #B 3924 Southern Ave SE #202 3921 Pennsylvania Ave SE #201 4002 E SE #204

3 1 2 2 1 1

$100,000

FORT LINCOLN 3146 Apple Rd NE #18

$270,000 $184,000 $180,000

FORT DUPONT PARK

2 1 2 2 1 1 1

$409,000

1102 Staples St NE #UNIT 2 919 12th St NE #505 919 12th St NE #305

$475,000 $395,000 $340,000

HILL CREST

$185,000

HILL EAST 1620 A St SE #2

$760,000

KALORAMA 1 1

2138 California St NW #104 1910 Kalorama Rd NW #104 2410 20th St NW #302

$625,000 $399,999 $378,400

LOGAN CIRCLE

$1,380,000 $990,000 $645,000 $605,000 $280,000

2 2 2 2 0

$1,250,000 $605,000 $575,000 $549,000 $404,000 $399,900

3 2 2 2 2 1

2 2 3 3 3

H STREET CORRIDOR

3709 Alabama Ave SE #102

1391 Pennsylvania Ave SE #M02 1323 K St SE #201 2 17th St SE #104

2608 17th St NE

460 Woodcrest Dr SE #A 3423 5th St SE #32

$388,500 $287,900 $208,000

1518 Rear New Jersey Ave NW $750,000 1 ECKINGTON 18 T St NE #2 $760,000 3 CONDO 1625 Eckington Pl NE #712 $297,700 2

BLOOMINGDALE 5

921 Randolph St NW #B 1457 Park Rd NW #208 3701 9th St NW #2

TRUXTON CIRCLE

ANACOSTIA 3

TRINIDAD

LANGDON

OLD CITY #1 $540,000 $425,000 $270,000 $230,000

1613 5th St NW

1327 W Virginia Ave NE 4 5

FORT DUPONT PARK

501 Hilltop Ter SE 1605 Fort Dupont St SE 4032 Ely Pl SE 3941 Burns Pl SE 4561 C St SE

OLD CITY #2

1437 Rhode Is. Ave NW #801-802 27 Logan Cir NW #14 1550 11th St NW #408 1401 Church St NW #314 1111 11th St NW #408 1229 12th St NW #B5 1404 11th St NW #202 1125 12th St NW #23

$1,900,000 $1,570,000 $790,000 $685,000 $625,000 $590,000 $465,500 $265,000

MT VERNON SQUARE 460 New York Ave NW #703 1101 L St NW #504

$535,000 $246,000

2 1 1 2 3 2 1 1

3 3 3 1 2 2 2 1 1 0

FABULOUS FEBRUARY FINDS!

! EW G N IN T S LI

NAVY YARD 1025 1st St SE #1406 37 L St SE #101

$845,000 $532,500

OLD CITY #1 1391 Pennsylvania Ave SE #203 919 12th St NE #405

$595,000 $380,000

OLD CITY #2 1451 S St NW #2 1529 14th St NW #604 2000 16th St NW #303 1615 Q St NW #608 1900 S St NW #401

$1,660,000 $819,000 $581,100 $470,000 $429,000

PENN QUARTER 616 E St NW #501 616 E NW #221 616 E St NW #802 701 Penns. Ave NW #1018

$462,000 $460,000 $441,500 $370,000

RLA (SW) 800 4th St SW #S803

$242,500

2 2

2 2 2 2 1 EW ! N ICE PR

$705,000 $540,000

SW WATERFRONT 817 3rd St SW #315 355 I St SW #S-402

$775,000 $615,000

0 2 1 3 2

TRINIDAD 1420 Staples NE #PH4 1732 Montello Ave NE #2 2213 M St NE #13 1220 Holbrook Ter NE #201

$589,500 $379,900 $365,000 $265,000

TRUXTON CIRCLE 1539 4th St NW #2

$665,000

2 2 1 1

E BL A IL W! A O AV N

U STREET CORRIDOR

2020 12th St NW #812 $945,000 2 911 T St NW #1 $590,000 2 929 Florida Ave NW #7005 $580,000 2

COOP CAPITOL HILL 516 A St NE #104

COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 1415 Girard St NW #102

CONGRESS HEIGHTS 20 Chesapeake St SE #33

$504,000

$195,000

$60,000

NAVY YARD 1000 New Jersey Ave SE #1023

$625,000

SW WATERFRONT 560 N St SW #N-412 510 N St SW #N425 520 N St SW #S-213 1311 Delaware Ave SW #S629 1301 Delaware Ave SW #N608 u

$390,500 $379,000 $169,000 $134,000 $85,000

336 11th St NE 4BR/3.5BA $1,150,000

1006 Independence Ave SE 3BR/1.5BA $975,000

1332 Independence Ave SE 5BR/5.5BA/PARKING $2,699,000 GRACEFUL GIANT GRABS SOUTHERN SUN ON 4 STUNNING NEW LEVELS! Behind a rare bayfront brownstone facade FOUR FULL stories tall, this graceful GIANT grabs southern sunshine across 4200 STUNNING square feet! 3 LARGE levels above grade feature 4 BRs, 4.5 baths, and three separate living and lounge zones. Plus, BONUS lower level with 2 separate entrances and DEEP 3-room guest apartment with kitchenette offering endless flexibility! Outdoors, savor 4 spaces - roof deck, primary balcony, covered rear porch, and lower stone patio. Prominent position 1 block from Lincoln Park and a short stroll to Metro, Groceries, Roost, and more. 100% re-engineered to last the next century by SCHMIDT BUILDERS, with new structure + high-efficiency systems, yet inspired at every turn by timeless building traditions and techniques.

EW ! N ICE PR

HANDSOME VICTORIAN AT THE HEART OF THE HILL Victorian bay-front delivers all the right stuff for Capitol Hill living, just an idyllic 4-block stroll to nearby parks and amenities! Renovated top to bottom in 2008 and updated again in 2019 by attentive owners, enjoy wide-open modern mainfloor layout, smart kitchen design, and walk out to private brick patio with intimate courtyard vibe for sunset serenity. Beautiful restored brick wall ascends the sun-splashed stairwell to three bedrooms, including the front primary bayfront suite with large stone bath. BONUS fully finished lower level!

SHAW 440 R St NW #004 2120 Vermont Ave NW #301

RY ! U X IN G U L ST LI

PERFECT PORCH-FRONT PACKAGE PRESENTS BEST OF BOTH RENOVATION AND RESTORATION! Another impeccable renovation from Quest Homebuilders! Beautiful blend of thorough re-construction (brand NEW walls, wiring, windows, plumbing, HVAC, and more) with creative casework and fine-tuned finishes that incorporate historic architectural details and make every square foot MATTER. Wide footprint features inviting floor plan - front parlor and striking central kitchen open to dining and sunroom, plus butler’s pantry in between. UPSTAIRS: 3 BRs with big central bath plus special owners’ suite at the back. DOWNSTAIRS: Den/media room with bar, plus bonus bed+bath for guests and separate rear entrance. Rear cobblestone patio features compact space with smart car charging option. Perfectly placed 1 block to METRO, Roost, or River Trail.

2 1

1 1 1 1

705 Kentucky Ave SE 4BR/3.5BA $1,199,000

1825 Massachusetts Ave SE 4BR/2.5BA $966,000 SERENE SLICE OF CAPITOL HILL WITH SMART SET-UP! Just past Lincoln Park and steps to Metro and new cafes, a row of DEEP front gardens and proud porch fronts! Steps inside to a delightful balance of historic features - original oak floors, casing, doors, hardware -- and transformative interior updates, all basked in southwestern sunshine! Fantastic flow: Spacious living room leads to large central dining, open to fully custom kitchen of copious cabinets, plus stunning rear sunroom! Upstairs a skylit modern bath is book-ended by spacious front bedroom, and three rear rooms offering ultimate family flexibility. The lower level boasts a BONUS: second kitchen, separate entry, and full bath perfect for welcoming guests, or short term rental stays.

E BL A IL W! A O AV N

REBORN HILL BAY-FRONT BETWEEN PARK AND MARKET! Immaculate Victorian brick bay-front facade contains innovative contemporary layout for modern living convenience. Main level delights with southern sunsplashed front room and warm brick-hearth rear room. In between, bright galley kitchen, library/gallery hall, smart powder room, and coat closet - everything in its place. At the rear, two glass doors to pristine private patio and garden for fresh air and entertaining flow! Ascend the central staircase to the sky-lit upper level, where the loftlike space is flanked by a large bedroom and full bath at the front and quiet rear bedroom overlooking the brick patio. On the lower level, a versatile bonus den for movie night, kid zone, or home gym, plus full laundry and modern mechanical systems. All the key ingredients, at the perfect Hill position - come see for yourself!

408 4th St NE 4BR/3.5BA $1,475,000 BRICK+BLACK BEAUTY IS A STANTON PARK STUNNER! Brick Beauty is a Natural STUNNER at Stanton Park! 1907 Bay-front with elevated and exceptional brick+stone architectural facade. Expanded footprint and FULLY renovated for fantastic flow from front foyer to immaculate eat-in kitchen, and beyond to sunset deck and private patio. 3 big bedrooms up, including vaulted owners’ suite with treetop views over the neighboring rooflines. Lower level bonus family den/media room with wet bar, plus big bed-bath suite at the quiet rear for guests or ideal home office.

2 1 1 0 1 0

202.243.7707

info@joelnelsongroup.com February 2024 H 87

88 H HILLRAG.COM

FAMILY LIFE

Parkinson’s Patients Learn to Play Pickleball by Pattie Cinelli

osemary Freeman, a retired lobbyist, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s about two years ago. “I was trying to learn pickleball at the time,” she said. “I couldn’t play well and I couldn’t figure out why. That’s when I found out I had Parkinson’s.” When Freeman, who is a member of the Capitol Hill Village, recovered from the shock of the diagnosis, she wanted to learn the game. “When I thought about playing, I realized I needed a supportive pickleball program that challenged me enough to enjoy the game but not so much that I get frustrated.” Freeman went to Ann Goodwin, Capitol Hill’s pickleball organizer who has been playing for about six-and-a-half years, for help. “Last fall, Rosemary and I got the Parkinson Pickleball program off the ground. We have great support from the larger Capitol Hill community,” Goodwin said. They are adding exercises to the program that include developing hand coordination, balance and focus. “I get a physical and mental boost from playing,”

Ann Goodwin and Rosemary Freeman, organizers of the Parkinson’s Pickleball group

February 2024 H 89

FAMILY LIFE

said Freeman. “We have modified the stanWhat is Pickleball? dard pickleball rules to accommodate new Pickleball is combines elements of tennis, players. “We follow the three Eses (sic). We badminton and table tennis and is played play to six points [standard is 11 points], on a court similar in size to badminton. we play a slower and a shorter game,” exTwo or four players use paddles made of plained Goodwin. wood or graphite to hit a whiffle ball over According to the Parkinson’s Foundaa net. The game is played until one team tion, 90,000 people are diagnosed with Parreaches a score of 11. According to legkinsons each year, and there will be 1.2 milend, the game was created by Washinglion people living with the disease by 2030. ton state politician Joel Pritchard to enterSymptoms usually develop slowly and may tain his bored family during the summer include tremors, slowness, limb stiffness as of 1965. It is the fastest growing sport in well as gait and balance problems. the United States for the third year in a No matter what the symptoms, all row, according to the Sport & Fitness Inpeople with Parkinson’s need to incorpodustry Association. The 2023 APP Pickrate movement into their lives. Pickleball leball Participation Report released deis a perfect exercise to possibly slow the tails that 36.5 million people have played disease’s progress. The Foundation recat least once in the past year – 14 percent ommends aerobic activity, strength trainof the adult population. ing and stretching and pickleball is a sport that can help with all those. “We play with Benefits of Playing others experiencing the same challenges. I with Parkinson’s come off the court with a feeling of accomPickleball can provide just the type of exerBonnie’s on it! plishment and the idea I am able to think cise many with Parkinson’s need. Because of myself as a pickleball player rather than of the changes in length and speed of one’s a person with Parkinson’s,” said Freeman. stride, pickleball can improve a shuffling gait. Directional changes necessary Aram Terzian, 86, has been playing pickleball for about two years. When in the game can improve balance. Trunk rotation can improve axial rigidity. he sits on the bench in between games he shakes. But when he gets onto the Overhead strokes can improve exterior muscle flexibility. court, he becomes one of the most skilled male players in the group. “I just “When I play pickleball, I feel stronger, more capable and more normal,” love sports and being active,” he said. “It helps me with balance. It’s also a said Freeman. “Physically, I feel that the value of the exercise is apparent almorale builder because it’s something I can do well enough.” most right away. I am looser, and my body feels like it belongs to me and not Terzian was diagnosed at 79. He was a racquetball player for 40 years Parkinson’s. It makes me happy.” but after play was halted because of the Parkinson’s patients play pickleball Covid shutdown, he realized, because of indoors at the Rosedale Recreation Cenhis balance, he couldn’t play as quickly as ter on Gale St NE on Fridays. Everyone he did before. is welcome. You don’t have to have ParTerzian describes having Parkinkinson’s to play. Freeman and Goodwin son’s as similar to being in battle. “You ask that anyone who is interested please have to fight the good fight to keep on top review basic pickleball rules on YouTube of it. If you let it define you, it will overbefore starting to play. whelm you.” For more information call Freeman Paul Orum, a yoga teacher on Capiat: 202-547-2647 or Goodwin at: 202tol Hill for decades, took up pickleball af669-1290. ter he was diagnosed. “I started playing out of curiosity and because mind-body Pattie Cinelli is a health and fitness professional and journalist who has been writing her movement helps with Parkinson’s. Picklecolumn for more than 25 years. She focuses ball complements other mind-body activon non-traditional ways to stay healthy, get fit ities I do like yoga, tai chi, cycling, dance and get well. Please contact her at: fitmiss44@ for Parkinson’s, and meditation.” aol.com. u Mark Mcelreath, Bonnie Hillsberg, Rosemary Freeman and Paul Orum. On the court at Rosedale

90 H HILLRAG.COM

EMPOWER A HAPPIER, HEALTHIER YOU! Through a holistic approach to staying well

on THE

Hill

Sharon L. Bernier

FROM PATTIE CINELLI

RN, PhD Psychotherapy Individuals & Couples

202-544-6465 LEARN:

• How to listen to your heart • How to Stay well • How to Feel Better • How to Move Safely

IT’S A JOURNEY THAT’S FUN AND EXCITING. 30 years of experience

Work with a Certified Functional Aging Specialist

LET’S TALK. CALL OR EMAIL TODAY.

202.329.5514

FITMISS44@AOL.COM • PATTIECINELLI.COM

SMYAL supports and empowers lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) youth ages 6-24. Through youth leadership, SMYAL creates opportunities for LGBTQ youth to build self-confidence, develop critical life skills, and engage their peers and community through service and advocacy. Committed to social change, SMYAL builds, sustains, and advocates for programs, policies, and services that LGBTQ youth need as they grow into adulthood.

SMYAL.org

202-546-5940 | supporterinfo@smyal.org | 410 7th Street., SE WDC 20003

• Complimentary Consultations • Chemical Peels • Hydrodermabrasion • Advanced Facial Massage • Brow and Lash Services • Curated Facials

Book your appointment today online at:

www.skinobsessionstudio.com or call: (202) 992-5388

660 Pennsylvania Ave SE, Suite 102 Licensed master esthetician with over 15 years February of experience. 2024 H 91

FAMILY LIFE

The District Vet Winter Tips for Pet Health

veryday, Calvin T. Dog’s personality continues to grow and develop. Same with his size: he’s almost fifty pounds. A few notes since our last update on this little velociraptor. When he’s tired, like many small children, he throws a small temper tantrum. A walk then a nap is due. I usually see this around 4:00 in the afternoon. He now knows sit, stay, boop, shake, and come (mostly). I can’t get over how much fun it is watching him grow and figure out the world around him. The past months there’s been a large media alert concerning a “new” dog virus leading to respiratory disease. Every week there’d be an announcement that it was in a new state or area. As of this writing we have not noted any significant increase in respiratory illness in dogs, and the emergency and internal medicine specialists in the area have not noted anything out of the ordinary either. Respiratory disease is common in dogs—just like

by Dan Teich, DVM children—and circulates relatively unabated. The good news is that we are not noting anything unusual. As always it is best to keep your dog vaccinated against bordetella and canine influenza, especially if they are social. Throughout winter months do not ignore using flea/tick /heartworm prevention. Here in the city, we have a combined sewer system, in which the temperature of the water under grates is conducive to mosquito growth. It is not unusual to note mosquitoes in the winter, especially when we have a few weeks of a warm stretch. Ticks are also on the prowl. February is a common month to be bitten by ticks. They lay awaiting passing prey. Remember that ticks frequent woodlands and shrubby areas and transmit all sorts of nasty diseases. During the winter many people complain that their joints ache. Is it the cold? Lack of sun? Decreased activity? I can’t say, but older pets and those with arthritis seem to echo their humans. As

a clinician, my main mission is the happiness and well-being of the pet. When it comes to arthritis, we have noted great responses to the new injectable arthritis medications for dogs and cats. Librela for our canine friends and Solensia for those of the feline persuasion, have significantly improved the quality of life for many of our senior patients. Each is given once per month in the veterinary hospital, either at a doctor appointment or subsequently as a visit with one of our technicians. On a personal note, I have been amazed at its efficacy. Older cats that would no longer jump on the bed are bounding up and down, and older dogs are walking much further and with less lameness. When a bit chilly and staying indoors, remember mental stimulation for all of your furred friends! As discussed in prior articles, the brain needs to work in order to stay fit! A mentally tired dog or cat is a much happier pet. We have been using a Kong Wobbler to feed Calvin— it takes much longer for him to eat, and makes him think about how to get it to spill out the food. Consider other toys for your friends, too. And since we are in February and approaching Easter too, please be mindful of chocolates and candies. Keep these treats far out of reach! 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

New Meds for Pet Arthritis

Librela for our canine friends and Solensia for those of the feline persuasion have significantly improved the quality of life for many of our senior patients. Each is given once per month. I have been amazed at its efficacy. – Dan Teich DVM

92 H HILLRAG.COM

NEW YE

YOUR PET DESERVES THIS KIND OF LOVE FROM HER V E T ! CA PITOL HI LL OW NE D & OP

ER AT ED

District Vet is an independent, locally owned veterinary hospital focused on the needs of you and your pet. We believe that no two pets are the same and that each deserves individualized love and attention. It’s our philosophy. It’s just who we are.

Be a part of our community.

3 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS EASTERN MARKET NAVY YARD BROOKLAND 240 7th St., SE 20003 801 2nd St., SE 20003 3748 10th St., NE 20017 (202) 888-2090 (202) 964-5623 (202) 827-1230

districtvet.com I caphill@districtvet.com

BRING A FRIEND MONTH

FRIENDS WORK OUT FREE IN FEBRUARY

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED

February 2024 H 93

FAMILY LIFE

School Notes by Susan Braun Johnson

Northeast Stars Montessori (NES)

Mundo Verde

NES students have been learning math with manipulatives. A variety of manipulatives allow the children to practice the work over and over again without getting bored. Repetition allows the students to work and retain the knowledge being learned. It also allows the children to internalize concepts through higher level repetition through synthesis, analysis, and application. Northeast Stars Montessori Preschool, 1325 Maryland Ave NE, nestars.net

Maury

Third grade students at Maury had a very special field trip - all the way to Maury

Mundo Verde

At Mundo Verde, students elevate learning with hands-on fieldwork, taking education to new heights. Embracing exploration, they cultivate knowledge beyond the classroom. J.F. Cook Campus ,30 P St. NW; Calle Ocho Campus, 4401 8th St NE; mundoverdepcs.org

St. Peter School

Baltimore to visit the American Visionary Art Museum and see “If You Build it, They Will Come” featuring the “handcrafted environments” of self-taught artists. These artists had limited means and made good use of found materials to execute their visions—a life-size family made of cardboard, another family of robots from recycled appliances, a model airplane large enough to ride in, and a fantasy fruit stand. The kids made their own art in a paintbrush workshop inspired by Gregory Warmack, aka, Mr. Imagination. And they enjoyed the museum’s permanent collections, including the ever-fascinating automatons in the Cabaret Mechanical Theater and St. Peter School

94 H HILLRAG.COM

the highly entertaining fart machine. Maury Elementary School, 1250 Constitution Ave. NE, mauryelementary.com

On October 13, the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington (ADW) named St. Peter School Principal Karen Clay as the 2023-24 Distinguished Principal of the Year in a surprise ceremony at St. Peter’s Church. St. Peter, 422, Third St SE, stpeterschool.org

Watkin’s Elementary

Watkins Elementary School’s fifth grade performed their “I Have A Dream” annual read at the Lincoln Memorial on January 12th. Watkins, 420 12th St SE; capitolhillclusterschool.org

DC Prep

DC Prep is proud to be one of the highest-performing public charter school networks in our nation’s capital! A 2023 Stanford study found that a DC Prep education is the equivWatkin’s Elementary

DC Prep

Capital Hill Day School

Friends Community School

alent of an additional 132 days of math instruction and 42 days of ELA instruction per year. Home to two National Blue Ribbon Schools, multiple EmpowerK12 Bold Performance schools, and the top middle school in DC (Edgewood Middle Campus), DC Prep is an awardwinning college-prep program, serving students in PK38 th grade across six campuses in Wards 5, 7, and 8. Submit your application now through MySchoolDC! Deadline is March 1! For more information, visit www. dcprep.org or email enrollment@dcprep.org. DC Prep, 2330 Pomeroy Road, SE

Friends Community School

On Monday, Terrance’s 5/6 Social Studies class saw the impact of the Quaker spice, Peace, at work on a global scale with a firsthand account about life during the Civil Wars in Liberia (1989-1996) and post-war peacebuilding from guest speaker Philip Quoqui. Philip also shared his experience with peacebuilding, specifically helping the people of Liberia heal and recover from the trauma caused by the wars. For FCS 5th grade students, who are studying slavery and the Civil War in the US, Phillip’s presentation reinforced how the conflict over human rights can cause long lasting strife and division. For FCS 6th grader students, Philip’s presentation showed how the African Kingdoms of West Africa have survived while trying to hold on to their rich culture amid war. Friends Community School, 5901 Westchester Park Dr, College Park, MD; friendscommunityschool.org

Capital Hill Day School

A recent study of trains in the Early Childhood division demonstrates how Capitol Hill Day School’s Field Education Program supports Project-Based Learning. One PreK and Kindergarten class explored trains all over the region, including trips to the B&O Railroad Museum, the National Capital Trolley Museum, Union Station, Amtrak, the Baltimore Streetcar Museum, and more. The unit culminated with a presentation of learning where students created trains of their own and shared their work with their parents! Capitol Hill Day School, 210 South Carolina Ave, SE; chds.org

Christmas Pageant and a field trip to the Botanical Gardens to see the holiday train display. The Christmas Pageant this year was supported by St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church with a beautiful Nativity set and costumes. The trip to the Botanical Gardens was a rare field trip, which was school-wide. Everyone enjoyed the displays. Waterfront Academy, 222 M St. SW, waterfrontacademy.org

Waterfront Academy

Eastern Senior HS

Juniors in IB History visited the DC History Center and presented their research topics. They also visited the Haitian Embassy to gain more context into their studies on the Haitian Revolution. Eastern, 1700 East Capitol St. NE; easternhighschooldcps.org

Richard Wright Schools

Daja Barbour, 8th grader at Richard Wright Schools photographed this image and perspective of a side view of the Smithsonian Castle. Richard Wright Public Charter School, 475 School St, SW. richardwrightpcs.org

Eastern HS

Templeton Academy

Templeton Academy’s middle school students won a trophy for the best sustainable highway system in this year’s Future City competition. For this competition, students imagined, researched, designed, and built cities at least 100 years in the future. Templeton Academy, 406 7th St NW; templetonacademy.org u

Richard Wright Schools

Templeton Academy

Waterfront Academy

In December, Waterfront Academy had our Annual February 2024 H 95

Kids & Family

Rendering: Courtesy Plus & Greater Than/ National Building Museum

Building Stories at the National Building Museum

Building Stories brings kids and adults alike on an immersive exploration of the world of architecture, engineering, construction, and design found in the pages of children’s books. It is geared toward an intergenerational audience, with special attention paid to children in grades Kindergarten to third and their parents and caregivers. Curated by the nation’s leading expert on children’s literature Leonard Marcus, Building Stories is the first national exhibition to call attention to the built environment’s role as an important, and often overlooked, character in children’s literature. By activating these stories and their built worlds, and the early foundations for how we begin to understand our surroundings, Building Stories allows visitors to investigate the role the built environment plays in our own lives and communities—and how we can be agents of change for its more sustainable, equitable future. The museum is open Thursdays through Mondays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults; $7 for kids and seniors. The National Building Museum is at 401 F St. NW. nbm.org.

Lunar New Year Festival at the DAR

On Saturday, Feb. 17, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., join the Daughters of the American Revolution for their Lunar New Year Festival. This free, family-friendly celebration of Lunar New Year tradition features games, activities and performances. It is presented in conjunction with the Vietnam Society, Taiwan Economic and Cultural Representative Office and the Fairfax High School Korean Club. The event is free, but pre-registration is requested. The event will be on-going throughout the day and is a drop-in anytime experience. Free admission. The Daughters of the American Revolution is at 1776 D St. NW. dar.org.

Presidential Family Fun Day at the NPG

On Saturday, Feb. 17, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., celebrate Presidents’ Day at the National Portrait Gallery’s annual festival for all ages. Discover more about presidents during guided tours of the “America’s Presidents” exhibition, a presidential portraiture collage workshop, build the White House with blocks, story times, and art-making and writing activities. Free, no registration required. Last year approximately 2, 500 people were in attendance. The National Portrait Gallery is at Eighth and G streets. NW. npg.si.edu. 96 H HILLRAG.COM

100 Gallatin St. NE Washington, DC 20011

PRE-K 3 – 5TH GRADE SPOTS AVAILABLE FOR THE 2024-2025 SCHOOL YEAR

EXPANDED ENROLLMENT IN PREK-3, PREK-4 & KINDERGARTEN

DC Prep is accepting applications for SY24-25 beginning December 11th Contact us about how to apply

COME LEARN WITH US! APPLY TODAY!

Apply for admissions at: www.myschooldc.org or call (202) 888-6336

VIRTUAL INFORMATION SESSION: Tues. Feb. 20, 2024 6-7 pm IN-PERSON OPEN HOUSE / INFORMATION SESSION: Wed. Feb. 28, 2024 6-7 pm

Call (202) 780-5126 for more information or visit: dcprep.org

Scan this QR code to register for a building tour

The enrollment team can be reached at school for questions at (202) 545-0515 or by email at enrollment@bridgespcs.org

w w w. br i d g e sp c s . org I 2 0 2 . 5 4 5 . 0 5 1 5 Accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

TOTAL

TOTAL TUTOR TOTAL TUTOR TUTOR TUTORING FOR ALL

TUTORING ALL TUTORINGFOR FOR ALL

TOTAL

TUTOR

Work with experienced tutors one-on-one or in small groups to achieve your learning goals. K-12 Subject Tutoring AP Test Prep SAT/ACT Test Prep College Counseling

(202) 240-7508 mytotaltutor.com

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN ENROLLING YOUR CHILD AT BRENT ES? JOIN US FOR AN OPEN HOUSE PROMO CODE: 202TUTOR!

• FEBRUARY 26TH @ 9 AM • MARCH 18TH @ 9 AM • APRIL 22TH @ 9 AM 301 NORTH CAROLINA AVENUE, SE, WASHINGTON, D.C. 202 698 3363 BRENTELEMENTARY@K12.DC.GOV WWW.BRENTELEMENTARY.ORG

info@mytotaltutor.com February 2024 H 97

FAMILY LIFE

Cinderella: A Salsa Fairy Tale (bilingual)

What will happen to Cinderella at the ball … game? That’s the surprising question in this contemporary Latin-American Cinderella musical that weaves subtle lessons on empathy, sportsmanship, and respect into an exciting, high-stakes story. This is an Imagination Stage original that broke new ground in bilingual children’s theatre. Best for ages five and older. Tickets start at $12. Cinderella: A Salsa Fairy Tale is at Imagination Stage, 4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda, MD, from Feb. 15 to April 5. imaginationstage.org.

Marshall project, the National Cathedral has introduced an augmented reality app for visitors to use in-person at the Cathedral. During your visit, grab a template from the Welcome Desk and sketch out your story. Then, head over to the window bay and use the app to “install your design” and share it. Check out youtube.com/watch?v=KqZjJGv0TJ4 to help take you through the steps. cathedral.org.

Upcoming Play Dates at the Natural History Museum

“Play Date at NMNH” is a drop-in offering on select Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. to noon, for the early learning audience (through five years old) and their caregivers and family members. Together, families will practice science skills such as observing, communicating, and asking questions through exploring topics in a variety of hands-on and collaborative experiences. Families will be able to explore together through stories, objects, art, and play related around a unifying topic or theme during each “Play Date.” Designed for families with young learners to learn and play together as they continue to develop and grow their science identity as a family. Upcom-

Discovery Theater on the Mall

On Feb. 21 to 23, 10:15 and 11:30 a.m., drummer Kofi Dennis brings the vibrant life of a West African village to the Discovery Theater stage though music, storytelling, and dance. Playing authentic instruments, the Ghanaian native leads lively call-and-response songs and games to get audiences up on their feet in a vibrant exploration of African cultural traditions. For ages three to six. On Feb. 28 and 29, 10:15 and 11:30 a.m., both days, beauty magnate Madame C.J. Walker, agricultural chemist and “peanut man” George Washington Carver, education pioneer Booker T. Washington, and even cranky chef George Crum, who accidentally created the potato chip, all take center stage in this vibrant living-history production. For ages seven to eleven. On March 7 and 8, 10:15 and 11:30., both days, the Science Guys of Baltimore explore what brings us together and what keeps us apart—what scientists call the laws of attraction and repulsion—through the force of electro98 H HILLRAG.COM

magnetism. For ages six to eleven. Shows are $8 for adults; $7 for kids; $3 for kids under two. Discovery Theater’s Ripley Center is at 1100 Jefferson Dr. SW (on the National Mall). discoverytheater.org.

Watch and Build (with LEGOs) at MLK Library

On the last Friday of each month, 3 to 5 p.m., join MLK staff in the Children’s Room to watch a movie and build with LEGOs. Build a creation on your own or collaborate with new friends. MLK Library is at 901 G St. NW. dclibrary.org.

Augmented Reality Experience at the National Cathedral

Tell your own story by designing your own stained-glass window. As part of their Racial Justice Windows by Kerry James

Louisa Mejeur at Dance Place: The Family Ballet

“The Family Ballet” is barely a ballet but is fully a family affair. Children and adults of all ages are welcome to join to see hard-hitting and relevant issues expressed through dance such as “Toddlers getting dressed” in which we encounter the dreaded: Shoes with Laces and Jackets with Buttons as well as “Mealtime with babies” where the floor becomes an abstract canvas. Lastly, enjoy the magic of a wee fairytale, expressed through dance as has been done for centuries. This performance invites in the chaos of families and helps them feel seen, heard, and joyful. Louisa Mejeur: The Family Ballet is at Dance Place, 3225 Eighth St. NE, on Saturday, March 16, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 17 at 4 p.m. Tickets are $10 to $30. danceplace.org.

SERVING GRADES 5-12

CHART YOUR COURSE TO EXCELLENCE Apply today for School Year 2023-2024. Seats are limited. Complete the application online through MySchoolDC.org. #ChoosePaul and we’ll choose you back! Increase your chances of being matched with Paul PCS by making us your #1 selection.

WHY PAUL PCS FOR 5-12 GRADE? • Tier 1 High School and a 2022 Bold Performance School for the Middle School • Guaranteed seat for Paul 8th grade families into 9th grade at Paul IHS • SAT Prep, Tutoring, Honors AP Classes, Dual Enrollment, and In-House College Assistance • Over 20 competitive middle school, junior varsity, and varsity athletic teams • Free daily breakfast and lunch • Extended day after school programs including tae kwon do, cooking club, dance, and tutoring • Wraparound services, counseling, and student support resources for families with IEPs

Visit www.paulcharter.org to learn more. Questions? Email: Enrollment@paulcharter.org 5800 8th Street NW Washington, DC I (202) 291-7499

February 2024 H 99

FAMILY LIFE

Free Admission to Mount Vernon to Celebrate George Washington’s Birthday

On Monday, Feb. 19, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Thursday, Feb. 22, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., celebrate the first president of the United States at his beloved home. Admission is free for both days—Presidents Day and George Washington’s birthday. Admission tickets will be distributed on-site upon arrival; a limited number of tickets are available. Mansion tours are timed. Mansion tour tickets will be distributed first come, first serve. Depending on the number of guests, there may be a two-tothree-hour delay between your arrival and your mansion tour time. Arrive early to receive the earliest tour times. mountvernon.org.

Through the Sunken Lands at the KC

Six months ago, a massive flood wiped away most of Arcady. Unable to contact her family and trapped in the library, Artemis, a wheelchair user, has built the place into her sanctuary. Trying to find a way back to Aunt Maggie’s house, Artemis soon learns of a new danger—a committee determined to claim the town for themselves. Follow Artemis, Aunt Maggie, and a talking heron in the fight to save their dying town. First commissioned and released by the Kennedy Center as a radio play as part of WTYA Presents… in 2021, Tim J. Lord’s play transforms into a new musical, with music by Avi Amon and direction by Cara Phipps. This heartening world premiere amplifies the voice of a commonly overlooked community and teaches us how we can make the world a little better for everyone. Through the Sunken Lands, at the Kennedy Center from March 9 to 17, is most enjoyed by ages nine and up. $20. kennedy-center.org.

Adventure Theatre: “Junie B. Jones: The Musical”

It is Junie B.’s first day of first grade, and a lot of things have changed for her: Junie’s friend, Lucille, does not want to be her best pal anymore and, on the bus, Junie B. makes friends with Herb, the new kid at school. Also, Junie has trouble reading the blackboard and her teacher, Mr. Scary, thinks she may need glasses. Throw in a friendly cafeteria lady, a kickball tournament and a “Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal,” and first grade has never been more exciting. Featuring a tremendously loveable character and fun-filled songs, Junie B. Jones will capture your audience members’ hearts just as the books by Barbara Park captivated an entire generation of students. Through March 30. Recommended for all ages. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online at adventuretheatre-mtc.org or by calling 301-634-2270. 100 H HILLRAG.COM

ing Play Dates are Feb. 13, Fossil Discoveries; Feb. 20, Cambrian Critters; Feb. 27, Creature Features—Fossil Edition; March 5, Exploring Color with Rocks & Minerals; March 14, Save a Spider Day!; March 19, Nature Explorations; March 26, Fabulous Flowers. Museum locations vary. naturalhistory.si.edu/events/family-programs.

Little Critters: Nature Play at the Zoo

On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 9 :30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., little zoogoers through age eight can drop-in to the Zoo’s Bird House Classroom to explore animals and nature through creative, free-choice activity stations, water play, and story times. Caregivers must remain with the children. Zoo admission is free: parking is $30. nationalzoo.si.edu.

Saturday Morning at The National

Come to the National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, on select Saturday mornings at 9:30 and 11 a.m. for wow-inspiring children’s entertainment of all sorts, from interactive performances, puppets, dance, and music--all designed to light up imaginations and celebrate a world of wonder. It’s free. It’s fun. It’s a great way to Saturday. Shows typically take place on the second Saturday in the National Theatre’s Helen Hayes Gallery. Shows are best enjoyed by children ages three to six, but anyone is welcome to join in. Tickets are free but a small donation is always welcome. Register in advance at nationaltheatre.org/saturdaymorning-live. Walk-up tickets are subject to availability. nationaltheatre.org.

Forest Youth Day and Wildlife Explorers Youth Day at the KC

Forests have nourished humans for millennia. They cover 31% of the Earth’s land area and shelter over 80% of terrestrial biodiversity. We’ve uncovered new dimensions of their wonder, from “forest bathing” to eco-tourism to pharmaceutical research. Even as climate change threatens them, we’ve learned that forests may be our lifeline from that damage—absorbing harmful chemicals and buffering us against extreme weather. From Feb. 20 to March 3, the Kennedy Center’s REACH to FOREST explores the symbiotic relationship between forests and the human world with two weeks of free programs, films, art installations, conversations, and more. On Feb. 24 and 25 and March 2 and 3, there will be fun activities for families celebrating conservation heroes, plus films, documentaries, demonstrations, and dynamic talks. Get creative with hands-on activities for all ages in the Moonshot Studio that will explore the world of trees and forests. kennedy-center.org/whats-on/festivals-series/ reach-to-forest.

Junior League Annual Poetry Contest

Students may submit up to two poems on this year’s theme—Grow. Entries will be judged by a panel of JLW volunteers based on content, originality, creativity, and clarity. Selected poems will be published in the 25th edition of Capitol Cadence, the JLW’s annual collection of student poetry. Student poets whose works are selected will be invited to read their

S E RV I N G F A M I L I E S S I N C E 2 0 0 8

Polite Piggy’s

S U M M E R

ANNUAL

2024

Location: Maury Elementary *Pendindg DCPS Approval 1250 Constitution Ave. N.E

JUNE 26TH – JULY 31ST Children ages 3-10 (PK3-5th Grade) (Excluding holidays, weekends, and inclement weather. Camp is closed 7/4 and 7/5)

HOURS: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Full Day 8:00 AM – 12:30 PM Half Day 12:30 PM – 5:00 PM Half Day FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE Whether you are looking for the morning, full-day, or all five weeks, we have you covered with top-notch programming.

Why Choose Polite Piggy’s This Summer? Your child will find joy, friendships, and caring team members daily. In addition, we offer unique classes like art, music, sciences, Stemovate, chess, fitness, sports, cooking, Legos, and a hiking club with Aunt Lizzie. P.S. We forgot to mention there are weekly water play sessions and plenty of popsicles!

2024 SUMMER CAMP FEES Full Day: $87 per Day $435 per week Half Day: $67 per Day $335 per week Sibling Discount: 15% discount for each child after the first. DCPS Employee/ First Responder/ Military Discount: 10%. NON-REFUNDABLE REGISTRATION FEE: $150 Per Child * Includes a t-shirt and transportation for field trips.

SCHOLARSHIP NON-REFUNDABLE REGISTRATION FEE:

$100 Per Child * Family households earning $60,000 or less are welcome to apply and must submit proof of income at registration. * Scholarship Registration Fee: $100 per child

Kids love us; parents trust us. Discover the difference that Polite Piggy’s makes. OPEN TO ALL CHILDREN, REGARDLESS OF SCHOOL AFFILIATION.

C A M P S

OUTDOOR CAMP AT MAURY’S PLAYGROUND

Jun. 24 & 25, Aug.1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, & 9 Session 1: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Session 2: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM *12:00-1:00 pm lunch break at home *No bathroom access on the outdoor side

$45 per session $225 per weekly session

PRIVATE CAMP GROUP UP TO 8 CHILDREN

8:30 AM-5:00 PM

Meets at a Family’s Home Campers will hang out with our camp leader going to the playground, museums, performances, and field trips. One family’s house will be the home-base for daily bathroom visits, lunch, and pick-up.

Group Rate:

$2,200 per week for up to 8 children $440 per day for up to 8 children

QUESTIONS: VISIT www.politepiggys.com Or Call Ms. Rolanda at 240-480-3195 from 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Monday – Friday @politepiggy @politepiggy February 2024 H 101

S U M M E R

C A M P S

Read with a Ranger: African Myths and Folktales

SUMMERCAMPDC.COM NEW THIS SUMMER!

Camp App, SMS, and Adventures on Campus @ Catholic University for Ages 10 -15. Calvary Episcopal Church: 820 6th St NE, Washington, DC 20002

3 LOCATIONS:

Trinity Episcopal Church: 7005 Piney Branch Rd NW, Washington, DC 20012

@adventuresonthehill |

Every Saturday through Feb. 24, at 3 p.m., join Oxon Hill Farm staff to commemorate Black History Month with a story time fit for all ages. A Park Ranger will read to children from Dr. Carter G. Woodson’s book ‘African Myths and Folktales’. Learn about African folklore about farm animals, then go meet the animals on their farm. This program starts in the Visitor Barn and lasts 45 minutes. Oxon Hill Farm is at 6411 Oxon Hill Rd. Oxon Hill, MD. nps.gov/oxhi.

St. Monica and St. James Church: 222 8th St NE, Washington, DC 20002

@adventuressummercamp | (202) 688–1580

poems at their Young Poets Celebration Ceremony in May 2024. Students in grades four through eight are eligible if they are either enrolled in a DC Public or Public Charter School or affiliated with the Washington Archdiocese. Poems must be submitted by a teacher, librarian, school administrator, or program administrator as a PDF attachment via email to poetrycontest@jlw.org. Multiple student entries per email are acceptable but each PDF may contain only one submission. The deadline for submission is Friday, March 29, 6 p.m. Questions about the poetry contest can be directed to poetrycontest@ jlw.org.

Free College Classes for DC High School Students

The summer 2024 OSSE (Office of the State Superintendent of Education) Dual Enrollment Consortium Program application is now open for all DC Public and Public Charter school students and closes 102 H HILLRAG.COM

SERVING CAPITOL HILL FOR 20 YEARS

2024-2025 SCHOOL YEAR OPEN ENROLLMENT BEGINS IN FEBRUARY VISIT OUR BRIGHT, NEWLY UPDATED CLASSROOMS!

Feb. 23. Students must be enrolled in a DC public or public charter school on grades 9-11. Adult students seeking a GED must score a 145 or higher on two GED Ready tests, one of which must be Reasoning Through Language Art. Students interested in the Virginia State University (VSU) residential program must rank VSU as their number one college, then select the “Residential” option. Applicants must upload the required documents to the database. Learn more and apply at osse.dc.gov/page/ossedual-enrollment-opportunities.

Education Day and Marvel Superhero Day with Capital City Go-Go

On Tuesday, March 5, 11:30 a.m., in partnership with Teach the Beat (thebeatisgogo.com), Go-Go Education Days fuses basketball with the distinctive sound of go-go music at the Entertainment & Sports Arena, 1100 Oak Dr. SE. This is the perfect field trip opportunity for local students K to 12. Tickets start at $10. On Sunday, March 24, 3 p.m., DC Public Library presents Marvel Superhero Day, come out for a special Marvel Superhero themed game including super activities, giveaways and more. This unique experience will be fun for the whole family. Experience GoGo in a never seen before way with a combination hoops and comics at ESA. Tickets start at $15. capitalcity.gleague.nba.com.

Discovery Days at the National Museum of Asian Art

On Wednesdays, Feb. 21, March 13, April 24 and May 29; 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., plan for a day of discovery and experiential learning at the National Museum of Asian Art.

ENROLL NOW IN

SUMMER CAMP 2024! STEM BASED EDUCATION WITH MONTESSORI FOUNDATION

ENROLLING FOR THE 2024-2025 SCHOOL YEAR

AGES 2 – 5 • Top Rated Montessori • Spanish Immersion Preschool • Kindergarten Readiness • Small/Private Preschool • STEM-based academics with individualized • Potty Training attention • Enrichment Classes • Certified Licensed • AM Meals Provided Teaching Staff

WEEKLY ENROLLMENT AGES 2 – 6 7:30 am – 6:00 pm Explore 14 weeks of STEM-based themes, including science experiments, outdoor exploration, and play, which complement our STEM-heavy curriculum in and outside our classrooms.

S U M M E R

C A M P S

Visit our booth at the DC Summer Camp Fair at JO Wilson Elementary on February 10th between 10 am and 2pm.

www.nestars.net CAPITOL HILL 1325 Maryland Ave., NE Washington, DC 20001

To register or to schedule a tour

202-399-2208

northeaststarsmontessori.nes@gmail.com

ALEXANDRIA

697 N. Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314

@northeaststarspreschool

703-945-0408

TAE KWON DO TRADITIONAL KOREAN STYLE AGES 4 AND UP OPEN ENROLLMENT

JOIN ANY TIME, FOR ANY LENGTH OF TIME. 6TH & EYE ST., NE. - PARKING • MASTERGUTMAN@GMAIL.COM

February 2024 H 103

S U M M E R

C A M P S

CAPITOL HILL’S #1 NEWS SOURCE!

LIKE US

HILLRAG.com

Find your neighborhood news,

DAILY ONLINE, MONTHLY IN PRINT

INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING? CONTACT: NOAH HOLMES

NOAH@HILLRAG.COM I (202) 400-3504

SPANISH IMMERSION DAY CAMPS

At Tyler-Shirley Chisholm Elementary School 1001 G Street SE 20003

Embark on a Language Adventure! Our Spanish Immersion Program welcomes kids aged 4 to 8 for a journey filled with fun and interactive activities. It’s the perfect setting to boost their Spanish skills in an engaging environment.

SPRING BREAK CAMP

April 15 - 19 th

(Note: No camp on April 16)

SUMMER CAMP

June 17th - Aug. 23rd

Enroll Now & Spark a Love for Spanish! Learn More & Sign Up Today (202) 400-4573 I wiselittleowls20@gmail.com I wiselittleowls.com

104 H HILLRAG.COM

Choose your own adventure and explore our galleries at your own pace with gallery activities and interactions with pop-up museum educators along the way. You can also select a time slot for a thirtyminute guided art activity. Free bus transportation can also be arranged for DC public and public charter schools. The National Museum of Asian Art is at 1050 Independence Ave, SW. Email AsiaTeachers@si.edu with questions. Complete the registration at s.si.edu/NMAADiscoveryDay.

NSO Family Concert: Music of Duke Ellington

On Sunday, March 17, at 2 p.m., in the Kennedy Center Concert Hall, take the A-Train to a special afternoon of music paying tribute to the beloved jazz composer and bandleader. Conducted by Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser, the National Symphony Orchestra performs this swinging session as part of the Kennedy Center’s season-wide Ellington 125 celebration. Most enjoyed by ages five and older. Tickets are $18 to $20. Prior to the performance, the NSO Volunteer Council’s Musical PLAYspace gives children the opportunity to try out the instruments they’ll see played on the stage. Following the performance, young audience members can ask questions and hear stories from the show’s artists and creative team. kennedy-center.org. u

ANNUAL

DC CAMP FAIR

S U M M E R

A J.O. WILSON PT PRESENTED BY

RESCHEDULED to

Sat, Feb. 10th, 2024 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

J.O. Wilson Elementary • 660 K Street NE

SPORTS C& MUSI

ARTS

MUSIC & A G OVERNI

FREE AND OPEN TO ALL PARENTS SPONSORED BYA J.O. WILSON PT

RTS

ACADEMIC

REF RES FOR HMEN SAL TS E

AGES 3 - 18

S SPONSORS HIP E L AVAIL AB

Capital

PRESENTS:

Adventures Camp

C A M P S

Calling all DC rising 6th - 8th graders! 4 DANCE 4 ENTREPRENEURSHIP 4 SPORTS 4 WEEKLY FIELD TRIPS 4 SWIMMING

SCAN HERE FOR UPCOMING EVENTS

Free event, open to all. Please share with neighbors and school networks.

For more information, email DCCampFair@jowilsonpta.org or go to DCcampfair.com

EXPERIENCE THE POWER OF LEARNING AND FUN THIS SUMMER! ENROLL TODAY!

CapitalVillageSchools.org 705 Edgewood St. NE WDC 20017 | (202) 938-1416 February 2024 H 105

CLASSIFIEDS Contact Carolina at 202.400.3503 & carolina@hillrag.com to get the most for your advertising dollars.

A/C & HEATING

APPLIANCES REPAIR We Fix all Major Household Appliances

Your Trusted Experts! APPLIANCES PRO, INC.

703-916-1130 prorepairappliance.com

FREE SERVICE CALL WITH REPAIR

$55 OFF ANY COMPLETE REPAIR

CARPET CLEANING WOVEN HISTORY We wash carpets in the traditional manner – by hand, using no chemicals or machinery. No preheated room for drying. We dry in the sun and the wind. Free pick-up and delivery for Capitol Hill residents. Call 202-543-1705. More info. at wovenhistory.com. Located at 311-315 7th St. SE. Your neighborhood carpet store on Capitol Hill since 1995. Open Tuesday- Sunday from 10 am- 6 pm.

CLEANING SERVICES

Limit one per customer • Not valid with any other offers Mention this coupon at time of purchase.

Refrigerators, Washer/Dryers, Ranges, HVAC Units, Garbage Disposals, Microwaves, Icemakers, Freezers, Appliances Pro, Inc. and more! No Extra Charge Weekends, Evenings & Holidays

“We Repair It Right The First Time!”

4 Family Owned & Operated. DAY SERVICE 4 TheSAME finest service at a reasonable rate. 4 Up-front estimates, with no hidden costs. $ 35 OFF

ANY COMPLETE REPAIR

FREE SERVICE CALL WITH REPAIR!

Nick, Jay, and Sunny Singh Offer 35 Years Combined Experience! 202.640.2178 CALL NOW!

Professional Home Cleaning

Keeping your home and family safe and disinfected with a professional clean.

202.399.3090

Call: Or Visit: www.maidpro.com/capitolhill 1405 H Street, NE • 2nd Fl

LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED

ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

BASEMENT SERVICES

$20Off Your First Clean NEW CLIENT SPECIAL

DAILY • WEEKLY • BIWEEKLY • MONTHLY PET & FAMILY FRIENDLY

standardcleaningservicesinc.com REFERENCES • BONDED & INSURED

COMPUTER

ANCHOR C O M P U T E R S IT SERVICES AND COMPUTER REPAIR Serving Capitol Hill Since 1994

SANITIZING & DISINFINFECTING

www.prorepairappliance.com

Licensed, Bonded & Insured

Locally Owned

703-719-9850 703-447-5500

ALL MAKES & MODELS / SERVICE & INSTALLATION

• Refrigerator - Service within 3 hours • Washers/Dryers • Wall Ovens • Ranges • Garbage Disposals • Microwaves • Icemakers • Freezers • Dishwashers • Sub-zero Specialists

Serving Capitol Hill & SW DC for Over 30 Years!

GET STARTED WITH YOUR FREE ESTIMATE!

SERVICE WITHIN 3 HOURS!

No Extra Charge Weekends, Evenings & Holidays

We Service, Repair, and Install all Major Brands

PROFESSIONAL CLEANING AT AN AFFORDABLE RATE

ON SITE SERVICE

A Cleaning Service, Inc. cares about the environment in which you live

Troubleshooting, Repairs & Upgrades

(202) 543-7055 We specialize in:

• Network & Security • WiFi & Connections • Virus & Malware Removal • Data Recovery

LARRY ELPINER

admin@anchorcomputers.com

a clean house, a clean mind. Complete Residential Cleaning, including Laundry & Ironing CALL FOR FREE ESTIMATE

703.892.8648

acleaningserviceinc.com satisfaction guaranteed serving DC, MD & VA since 1985 licensed, bonded & insured

106 H HILLRAG.COM

ANCHORCOMPUTERS .COM

CONTRACTORS

John Himchak Construction Co. Inc. SATISFYING CAPITOL HILL CUSTOMERS FOR OVER 27 YEARS

Residential & Commercial Restoration & Historical Preservation Structure Specialists Renovations & Remodeling Kitchens, Baths & Basements Restoration & Repair

Call 202.965.1600 DCRA Lic 9115 • Insured • References

www.jfmeyer.com

Basement Excavation Underpinning Foundation Repair Waterproofing Concrete Masonry Tuck pointing Paver & Flagstone Installation Garages Repaired Garages Built New Demolition Additions Renovations UNCOMPROMISED QUALITY REASONABLE RATES WARRANTY ON ALL WORK LICENSED

BONDED

INSURED

MEMBER OF

Whether you are looking to finish your old basement or remodel your kitchen, we are the right choice.

3Renovations & Remodeling 3Painting 3Concrete / Masonry 3General Repairs

Speak Directly with Owner John Calls Preferred

202.528.2877

JohnHimchak@hotmail.com

FITNESS

We are Open!

Maximize your Health! Bikram Hot Yoga (26 + 2) -plusHot Pilates • Barre • Warm Flow Piyo and Spa Yoga

Book your classes today! hotyogacapitolhill.com

HOUSE HISTORY

Do You Know the historY of Your DC home? Let us create a coffee table book on the history of your home.

nmhousedetectives.com nmhousedetectives@gmail.com

INTERNET

New Student Special* One week class pass – all inclusive $39. *For local, new students only. Please pre-register, and arrive 10-20 minutes before the class starts. Masks are NOT required while on your mat taking class, but are required at other times at the studio. (Subject to updates) We continue to offer ZOOM and on-demand classes.

410 H Street NE • 202-547-1208 hotyogacapitolhill@gmail.com

FOR RENT OFFICE/WAREHOUSE SPACE Office/Warehouse Space to share in Cheverly. Call Steve at 301-351-4033. Up to 1,000 sq.

ELECTRICIAN

IRONWORK

FREE ESTIMATES AFFORDABLE RATES LICENSED, INSURED & BONDED

CONTACT GABRIEL TO DISCUSS YOUR NEXT HOME PROJECT

(571)437-4696

lgmhomeimprovementsinc.com

HANDYMAN CAPITOL HILL SPECIALIST

EVG

HANDYMAN SERVICES Painting Interior/Exterior Drywall & Tile Harwood Floors Carpentry & Cabinets

No Job Too Small

VISIT OUR WEBSITE

Great Rates n Warranty on all work References Available n Licensed & Insured

hillrag.com

(301) 237-1748

EVGcontractorsLLC@gmail.com

February 2024 H 107

LANDSCAPING

PLUMBING

Redefining Beauty One Client at a Time!

Just Say I Need A Plumber®

Thomas Landscapes OVER 25 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN CAPITOL HILL

Dial A Plumber, LLC®

Historic Renovation & Artisan Stonework

• Licensed Gas Fitter • Water Heater • Boiler Work • Serving DC • References John • Drain Service • Furness Repair & Replacement

Award-Winning Mason with over 30 years of experience

SPECIALIZING IN: Custom Masonry • Stone • Brick Work Point Up • Restoration • Patio & Water Gardens

Call Tom for a Free Estimate

202-544-4484

Full-Service Landscape Design & Maintenance

www.michaligamasonry.com

Installation, arbors, retaining walls, walkways, lighting, water features

FORMER HEAD MASON OF THE ARCHITECT OF THE CAPITOL FROM 1989 - 1996.

Patios, roof top gardens, townhomes, single family homes Trees & shrubs, formal & informal gardens

Licensed Bonded Insured

Reasonable Prices : Hill Resident Licensed • Bonded • Insured

202-251-1479

Custom Masonry, Fencing and Iron work Restoration and Enhancement

Derek Thomas / Principal Certified Professional Horticulturist | Member of MD Nursery Landscape and Greenhouse Association

301.642.5182 202.322.2322 (Office) thomaslandscapes.com

MASONRY

MOVING & HAULING

BEST RATES IN DC $80 x Two Men- 2 or 3 Hours Minimum • Pickups / Deliveries

CONTINENTAL MOVERS Professional Movers Who Really Care

Preserving Capitol Hill B R I C K BY B R I C K since 1985

Owner Operated Since 1982 References – Local & Long Distance Packing Services – Pianos & Big Objects

DC PLUMMER’S LICENSE #707

PEST CONTROL

F L K Termite, Pest &

Rodent Control More than just killing bugs, we take care of your home • Babies, children, pets, no worries, customized treatments • Latest environmentally sound methods and products • One time, monthly, bimonthly, quarterly, yearly LICENSED & INSURED

Free Estimates

Historical Preservation Specialists • Re-pointing with historical method mortar

Call for a FREE Quote

202.438.1489 301.340.0602 www.continentalmovers.net

• Rebuilding arches and historical architecture • Restoration cleaning on historical brick and stone • Masonry & Stone Restoration Artisans • Paint Removal NEW SERVICE!

Foundation Repairs & Underpinning

FREE ESTIMATES

Bricklands@msn.com brickmasonrywashingtondc.com

Painting Division Interior & Exterior Custom Painting Drywall & Plastering

Call 202.965.1600

DCRA Lic 9115 • Insured • References

www.jfmeyer.com 108 H HILLRAG.COM

301.273.5740 301.576.3286 WWW.FLKPESTCONTROL.COM

PAINTING

Kenny

PET SERVICES

RADIO/MEDIA

THE HILL’S ROOFER FOR NEARLY 100 YEARS!

R.THOMAS

ALL TYPES OF ROOFING REPAIRS

DANIEL ROOFING • LEAK REPAIR • NEW ROOFS • ROOF COATING

Star Roofing Company

• Low Slope Roofing • Steep Slope Roofing • Gutter & Downspouts • Skylights • Chimneys • Masonry

RELIABLE

WINDOWS

HISTORIC WINDOW REPLACEMENT SPECIALISTS

1880 ON THE OUTSIDE 2024 ON THE INSIDE

Specializing in Residential & Commercial Flat Roof Systems

202-543-6383 All work done by owner • Free Estimates Insured • Licensed • Bonded

CALL NOW FOR YOUR FREE INSPECTION!

202.569.1080

tom@rthomasdanielroofing.com

www.rthomasdanielroofing.com

G G ROOFING

ROOFING/GUTTERS Roof Repairs and Replacements Specialists REPAIR & INSTALLATION • Flat Roofing • Slate Roofing LOCAL + FAMILY • Shingling OWNED & OPERATED • Skylights 30+ Years of Experience • Gutters & Downspouts • Chinmeny

Martin

Roofing

AWARDED BEST WASHINGTON, DC CONTRACTOR OF 2012 BY ANGIE’S LIST FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED • “50 YEARS EXPERIENCE” • Flat Roof Specialists

• Chimney Repairs

• Modified Bitumen

• Roof Coatings

• Skylights

• Gutters & Downspouts

• Shingles

• Preventive Maintenance • Metal Roofs

• Slate

10% OFF WITH THIS AD

202.425.1614 WWW.GANDGHOMEIMPROVEMENTS.NET

Licensed & Insured | All Work Managed & Inspected by Owners

SUPPORT YOUR NEIGHBORS AND LOCAL BUSINESSES!

WOOD & WHITACRE ROOFING CONTRACTORS

30 years on the Hill Slate – Tile – Copper Specializing in all Flat Roof Systems and Leaks FREE ESTIMATES • Work Guaranteed

JEFFREY WOOD cell

301.674.1991

www.wood-whitacre.com

BUILDING THE FUTURE. RESTORING THE PAST. Call Today for your FREE NO-OBLIGATION ESTIMATE* *Three Windows Minimum

alex@windowscraft.com (202) 288-6660 www.windowscraft.com LICENSED, INSURED AND BONDED

DO MORE WITH YOUR MARKETING CAPITAL COMMUNITY NEWS

AD SOLUTIONS We believe in strong, targeted ad solutions and offer added value benefits to our advertisers! So what’s INCLUDED?

Call Now for your Free Estimate

Your campaign publicized across ALL available platforms.

R.W. ROOFING We offer the most competitive price in town. All Roofing & Rubber Roofs. We do everything: replacements, repairs, maintenance and coatings. See our ad under general contracting. 202-6740300 or 301-929-0664.

Print | Digital Ads Web Editorial | Social Media

202.860.9007

ASK CARO

202.543.8300 X12

VISIT OUR WEBSITE

hillrag.com February 2024 H 109

www.themecrosswords.com • www.mylesmellorconcepts.com

CROSSWORD Foodie Foods by Myles Mellor

Across:

1. “Real ___ Don’t Eat Quiche” 4. Smart of ‘’24’’ 8. Look after, as a bar 12. Walked nervously 17. Secrets of a select few 20. Calls, in poker 21. Positively charged electrode 22. Asian appetizer 24. Dessert choice 25. Have ___ (be connected) 26. Goal in Mexico 28. Willie Mays’s last team 29. It could go with shot 34. Animals of a region 38. The NY Manning 40. Settle 44. Geraint’s lady 45. Antiacid (abbr.) 49. “She Done ___ Wrong” 50. City west of Daytona Beach 51. Sneaker 53. Rustic locale 54. Internet addresses 55. Real estate investor’s buy, on occasions 57. Antibody production stimulant 59. “...___ quit!” 61. “In excelsis ___” 62. Enjoy a snowy slope 64. Continuously 65. Okra dish 67. Seafood appetizers 71. Part of surf and turf 72. For ___ an emergency 73. Nannies for room and board 75. Set of values 77. Beach item 78. Florida university whose mascot is the Hatter 80. Wrinkle 81. Queen ___ lace 83. Hot temper 84. Ballad’s end? 87. Temperature controls, briefly

110 H HILLRAG.COM

88. A style of music 90. More noisy 93. Order from a cardiologist 96. Hosp. section 97. Bor-ring! 100. Nicole Kidman’s character’s lover in “Cold Mountain” 102. Simon and Garfunkel’s “___ Robinson” 103. Actress Loren 105. Calif. city 106. Deleted 108. Days or Holiday 109. Con artist’s targets 111. Guide the course 112. Founded, abbr. 115. Car club 117. Markers 121. Butcher’s offering 127. Barbecue serving 132. Coffee choice 133. Italian coffee brand 134. In a drunken manner 135. English track town 136. Miss, in Monaco: Abbr. 137. Circle segments 138. Compass point

Down:

1. ___ Verde National Park 2. Sports channel 3. “Me neither” 4. “Along came Polly” star first name 5. A little work 6. “Hair” song 7. Mil. rank 8. “Bad boy!” 9. Shoe designation 10. A loser at Waterloo 11. Cable co. offering 12. Baywatch star, first name 13. Weak 14. Make do

Look for this months answers at labyrinthgameshop.com 15. Expurgate 16. Barely passing grades 18. Color 19. H.S. class 23. Hurl 27. Vassal 30. Tolstoy’s first 31. Sites with lots of lots 32. Box 33. Firm and compact 35. Cameo stone 36. Tiny singer 37. Spots 38. Black, to poets 39. Be untruthful with 40. Tuna type 41. Cheat 42. Real estate ad abbr. 43. It’s hidden by a ponytail 46. African nation

47. Show, as a historic battle 48. Night spot 52. Very slim margin 56. Winds 58. Foot divisions 59. Brunch dish 60. Baseball stat 62. Atlas abbr. 63. Famous falcon 65. Wild llama 66. Consuming 68. Chinese basketball giant 69. Muscle 70. Divide 73. ___ Lingus (Irish airlines) 74. Native American 76. Patient attention, briefly 77. City with two banks 79. Strapped 82. 60s protest

85. Falco of “The Sopranos” 86. Bacon features 89. Signify 90. Remorseful one 91. Expo ‘70 site 92. Send off 93. Rock music style 94. French vineyard 95. Clock std. 98. Watson makers 99. “Are you a man ___ mouse?” 101. Society page word 104. Cab Calloway’s signature line 107. Sweats bullets 110. Plant production 112. Salinger lass 113. Exchange 114. P.I.’s 116. Hung. neighbor 118. Circus cries 119. WWW addresses 120. ___ terrier 122. Balmoral 123. Viewing point at the Grand Canyon 124. Conduit fitting, perhaps 125. Every bit 126. Do a beautician’s job 128. Mauna ___ 129. Paper size 130. Catchall abbr. 131. Trash

CAPITOL HILL’S #1 NEWS PROVIDER!

Don’t Miss Our... SPRING

SPECIAL ISSUE

Homes +Gardens ON STANDS: MARCH 2ND

What’s Inside? Tips on Seasonal Home Improvement Projects Profiles on Capitol Hill Home Service Providers

Spring Landscaping and Beyond: A Local Perspective

INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING? CONTACT YOUR SALES EXPERT TODAY!

Capital Community News, Inc. Publishers of: MIDCITY YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

F A G O N GUIDE TO CAPITOL HILL

NOAH 202.400.3504 | KIRA 202.400.3508 ANDREW 202.400.3512 | CAROLINA 202.400.3503

To HILL with the Suburbs! 1100 E St. NE

COMING SOON

We had the privilege of seeing this home before the current owners performed their restorations and renovations. The bones, the windows, the hardwood floors, and the wonderful design were all there. But it took a talented couple to save all of the historic details, but upgrade the kitchen, the baths, the entire basement unit, as well as landscaping and the rear patio, to make this home a historic showcase, combining history and modern amenities. Two units over three floors, Main Home has narrow width hardwood floors and trim, LR & DR separated by pocket doors, modern kitchen w/ wet bar, walk-in pantry, in wall fireplace, and a huge kitchen isle under coffered ceilings. Upstairs, the Primary bedroom has a walk-in closet, and luxurious bath w/ sep shower. Two more bedrooms share the other bath, and laundry. The lower level has a legal 1BR unit, profitably run as AirBnB over the last several years. Lastly, we can mention the 2 car garage, and 2 car driveway and its location near MD Ave, a gateway to the city, or out of it!

4110 1st St. North Beach

BEACH TOWN

1207 D St. NE

COMING SOON

There is something poetic about a home by the sea. Whether that is down to the sound and smell of the surf, or the spectacular sunrises and sunsets daily, or maybe just somewhere you can hear the Earth’s heartbeat untrammelled by urban noise. Regardless, this historic cottage has its poetry, in the wide front porch & landscaped lawn. The main floor has a Formal living room, both formal & informal dining rooms, a Modern designer kitchen w/ stone countertops, and a new powder room. Upstairs has 3 bedrooms, one with a walk-in closet, and share a shower bath. In the rear of the main home, a large den/media room faces the patio and the rear yard. Across from the den, an outbuilding, with bathroom, kitchen, bedroom, etc.*lready roughedin) could, permits willing, become a cottage to use for guests or as a vacation rental. Located 1/2 a block from the Bayshore boardwalk, sunrises can be viewed from the porch, as well as many of natures’ better light shows!

50+ YEARS; THOUSANDS OF HOMES!

A livable home, for someone interested in creating equity through careful improvements. With the original homes existing strong bones and classic design, all that is needed is a hands-on pioneer, or two, to make the home a showplace. Home has 1700+ sf above ground, and a full footprint basement. Rooms in the house are of a good size in a functional layout & with all three levels available, the home can be improved to include a basement unit (either fully separate, or just for in-laws or Air BnB), with patience, persistance and permits, of course! On the South side of D St, the home appears to fall into Maury catchment, and with a large back yard, (with room for a garden, a patio, or a playground could make this attractive for some buyers.) A Nice sized Home, with a nice sized yard, nice sized rooms, and a nice price, make this one a nice change from poorly done, or overdone renovations.

THE SMITH BROTHERS Licensed in DC & MD

jsmithteam@gmail.com John Smith Aaron Smith Office Direct

202.262.6037 202.498.6794 202.608.1880 202.608.1887

Traditional Homes! Traditional Values!

THE SMITH BROTHERS

Hire Us, and We Will Put Our Experience and Skill to Work for YOU! KEEP IN TOUCH ABOUT HILL REAL ESTATE AT/ON: www.facebook.com/TheSmithTeam.DC

twitter.com/OneHillofaAgent

705 North Carolina Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20003

LICENSED IN DC & MD