Hill Rag Magazine – June 2023

WISCONSIN AVE NW #409 STUDIO, $1,595

NEWTON STREET, NE 4BR/3BA $4,000

PET

PHOTO CONTEST!

CATEGORIES:

• Best Overall Photos

• Darling Dogs

• Finest Felines

• Cleverest Caption

• Best Buddies

• Human & Pet Best Buddies

• Hill Haunts

Send us your favorite pet photos for a chance at fame! Winning entries will be published in the July Hill Rag, our Special Pet Issue, and on our website at hillrag.com

TO ENTER:

Email to pets@hillrag.com OR mail to PO BOX 15477 Washington, DC 20003 (make sure your photo is over 300 DPI, photos cannot be returned)

• Maximum of two photos per entry. Include your name, a phone number, the name of your pet, a caption and category for the photo.

DEADLINE: 6/17/23

PUBLICATION DATE: 7/1/23

SUMMER SPECIAL

13

32

Calling All Artists – If You’re An Artist, Sign Up Now for the Annual Celebration of Local Art by Rindy O’Brien

capitol streets

39 Folger, “For You, Not Just the Few” – Folger Shakespeare Library Set to Reopen Nov. 17 by Elizabeth O’Gorek

42 What’s Going On With The Pennsylvania Avenue SE Traffic Project? Clarification on the Bike and Bus Lane Conversion by Elizabeth O’Gorek

46 The Tidal Basin in Yesteryear: DC’s Public Rec Center by William Zeisel

50 Our River, The Anacostia – Mussels Put to Work to Help Restore the Anacostia by Bill Matuzeski

52 The Capitol Hill Community Achievement Awards 2023 by Melissa Ashabranner

54 Flight Lounge Sparks Concer ns: ANC 6A Report by Sarah Payne

55 DLCP Presentation Generates Disappointment ANC 6B Report by Elizabeth O’Gorek

58 Eighth Street Bus Priority Project: ANC 6C Report by Sarah Payne

59 DDOT Director Grilled On Traffic Issues –ANC 6D Report by Andrew Lightman

62 19th Street Traffic Plan Critiqued: ANC 7D Report by Sarah Payne

64 Affordable Housing Promises Questioned ANC 8F Report by Sarah Payne

66 Bulletin Board by Kathleen Donner

The Capitol Hill Community Achievement Awards 2023 by Melissa Ashabranner

Ten little Duckies Hatched on A Hill Condo Patio by Rindy O’Brien

Capitol Cuisine by Celeste McCall

Class of 2023 Shout Outs

homes and gardens

arts and dining

family life

126

“Abandoning the First God”

12” x 9”Acrylic on Paper

Nami Oshiro is an artist based in the Washington DC-Metro area. She makes drawings, paintings, and comics. Her work plays with absurdities experienced by people with unique relationships with societal constructs like race and gender. Viewers have described her art as “trippy,” “unsettling,” “nihilistic,” and “very upsetting to my friend Daniel.” She was born to Okinawan parents in California, was raised in Florida and Virginia, and now works in northern Virginia. She went to the Corcoran College of Art + Design, where she received a Bachelor of Fine Art in Fine Art in 2012. Oshiro recently began exhibiting work throughout the East Coast again after a decade-long hiatus from the arts community. See more at:

Foundry Gallery – 2118 - 8th Street, NW • (202) 232-0203 • Friday–Sunday:12-6 pm

www.foundrygallery.org/nami-oshiro

www.namioshiro.com

www.inprnt.com/gallery/namioshiro

Twitter: @namioshiro

Instagram: @nami_oshiro

Next Issue: July 1

Capital Community News, Inc. Publisher of:

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Editorial Staff

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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

Real Estate

Don Denton • DDenton@cbmove.com

Kids & Family

Kathleen Donner • kathleendonner@gmail.com

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Homes & Gardens

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Rindy 0’Brien • rindyobrien@gmail.com

Commentary editorial@hilllrag.com

Production/Graphic/Web Design

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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.

WHAT’S on

WA S H I N G T O N!

Summer Special

NMAAHC’S 50 YEARS OF HIP-HOP BLOCK PARTY ON THE NATIONAL MALL

The National Museum of African American History and Culture announces the return of its Hip-Hop Block Party, Saturday, Aug. 12, 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 p.m., celebrating the culture and music that has been originated and shaped by Black America for decades. This year’s celebration will feature multigenerational performances by some of hip-hop’s most influential DJs, artists and cultural influencers. Attendees will also be able to participate in interactive activities, such as graffiti art, breakdancing and more. There will also be hip-hop-focused tours of NMAAHC’s renowned galleries. nmaahc.si.edu/ block-party.

SWEENEY TODD (THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET, A MUSICAL THRILLER) AT SIGNATURE

Returned to London following a wrongful banishment, barber Sweeney Todd’s thirst for vengeance against the corrupt judge who sent him away leads him on a murderous spree. Aided by his downstairs neighbor, baker Mrs. Lovett, the two concoct an unappetizing scheme as they terrorize the city. Featuring the songs “The Worst Pies in London,” “A Little Priest,” “Johanna” and “Not While I’m Around,” this deliciously dark musical serves horror with a slice of humor. Tickets are $49, up. Sweeney Todd is at Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, VA, through July 9. sigtheatre.org.

US NAVY BAND CONCERTS AT THE CAPITOL

NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA’S MARVIN GAYE TRIBUTE

Marvin Gaye was one of the most revolutionary soul singer-songwriters of the 20th century. He performed countless popular soul classics for Motown records and produced deeply sensitive music that still resonates today. In honor of the 50th anniversary of Marvin Gaye’s seminal album What’s Going On, on Friday, June 16 and Saturday, June 17, 8 p.m., the NSO presents a starstudded concert featuring Joshua Henry, Cory Henry, Luke James, Michelle Williams, and Emily King performing the Prince of Motown’s greatest hits in the Kennedy Center Concert Hall. $39 to $99. Kenedy-center.org.

Throughout the summer, The United States Navy Band takes advantage of the warm weather and landmarks in Washington, DC to perform in its Concerts at the Capitol Series. On Mondays, June 12, and 26; July 10, 17, 24 and 31; Aug. 7, 14, 21 and 28; at 8 p.m., listen to their music and watch the magnificent sunset over the National Mall from the west steps of the Capitol. Inclement weather cancels the performance. navyband. navy.mil.

Photo: Johnson Publishing Company Archive. Courtesy J. Paul Getty Trust and Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture

WOW!

Summer Special

CHAMBER DANCE PROJECT: SLAM! A FESTIVAL OF BALLETS

On June 22 to 25, the Chamber Dance Project season forges ahead with two bold world premieres and five other ballets drawn from their ten years in Washington, DC, presented in two programs of live music featuring works by six choreographers, ten dancers, eleven musicians and two slam poets. Tickets start at $39. Slam! A Festival of Ballets performances are at Greenberg Theatre, 4200 Wisconsin Ave. NW. chamberdance.org.

Arranged: a visually stunning work for three women in white.

THE BLUEST EYE AT ANACOSTIA PLAYHOUSE

Nobel Prize winning author Toni Morrison’s The Bluest Eye is a story about a young Black girl in 1940s Ohio. Eleven-year-old Pecola Breed- love wants nothing more than to be loved by her family and school- mates. Instead, she faces constant ridicule and abuse. Blaming her dark complexion, she prays for blue eyes, sure that love will follow. The Bluest Eye paints a portrait of what it means to be young, female, and Black, while inviting audiences of today to examine their own re- lationship to beauty standards, loneliness, and self-acceptance. The Theater Alliance presents Bluest Eye at the Anacostia Playhouse, 2020 Shannon Pl. SE, from June 1 to 18. theateralliance.com.

C.S. LEWIS ON STAGE: FURTHER UP & FURTHER IN

Award-winning actor Max McLean’s tour de force performance captures C.S. Lewis’ magnetic personality, astonishing eloquence and self-deprecating wit to create an onstage experience venturing deep into the soul of one of the most influential thinkers of the past century. Using Lewis’ own words, this dazzling, multimedia, theatrical event explores: What convinced Lewis of the divinity of Christ. Why the BBC gave him a huge audience to deliver wartime talks that would become Mere Christianity. How Hitler influenced the writing of The Screwtape Letters. How his profound insights on prayer, heaven and the Second Coming of Christ influenced The Chronicles of Narnia. C.S. Lewis on Stage is at the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Klein Theatre from June 7 to 18. Tickets from $59-99. shakespearetheatre.org.

GREGORY PORTER AND DC JAZZFEST AT THE WHARF

DC JazzFest presents Gregory Porter at The Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW, on Friday, Sept. 1, 8 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.). He is an American singer, songwriter and actor who has twice won the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Album: first in 2014 for Liquid Spirit and then again in 2017 for Take Me to the Alley. $68 to $98. theanthemdc.com. The 19th Annual DC JazzFest will take place on Sept. 2 and 3, from 2 to 10 p.m., both days, over Labor Day weekend, on the Wharf’s District Pier. This blockbuster weekend event features two outdoor stages and a waterfront destination with restaurants, shops, and stunning views of our Nation’s Capital. wharfdc.com.

WOW!

Summer Special

DC’S BARBECUE BATTLE

This year, the Giant National Capitol Barbecue Battle is on Saturday, June 24, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday, June 25, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., on Pennsylvania Ave. between Third and Seventh streets, NW. The event features two main stages alive with a great mix of DC’s own Go-Go music and a blend of Latin and world music and dancing, reggae, R&B, blues and more. New this year, to celebrate the event’s 30 years the Monster Energy 90’s Block Party will throw back featuring DJ Jazzy Jeff and a variety of live entertainment like BMX and acrobatics action and nostalgia. $20 adult admission, kids 12 and under, free. $30 for a twoday pass. bbqdc.com.

JEFF TWEEDY AT THE 9:30 CLUB

ONE JEWISH BOY AT THEATER J

In this bittersweet, sophisticated and quick-fire new British comedy about antisemitism, Jesse, a nice Jewish boy, falls in love with Alex, a nice mixed-race girl. The love between them is pure and absolute but Jesse has never been able to shake off the vicious attack that changed him forever. This provocative play received a massive antisemitic response when the UK production opened in 2018; posters were defaced, and the writer received death threats. Don’t miss the US premiere of this urgent and unflinching comedy, which pits the impact of hatred against the power of love. Theater J, 1529 16th St. NW, from June 7 to July 2. theaterj.org.

A TASTE OF THE DMV: (ADULTS ONLY) FOOD, MUSIC AND CULTURAL FESTIVAL

The second annual (indoor and outdoor)

Taste of the DMV is on Saturday, July 1, 2 to 8 p.m., at Republiq, 2122 24th Pl. NE. The festival features food from all over the DMV, a beer garden, live performances, vendor, raffles, wine tasting, snack booths, photo booths and much more. A Taste of the DMV is for adults 21+ with ID. $10 general admission. atasteofdmv.com.

As the founding member and leader of the Grammy Award winning American rock band Wilco, Jeff Tweedy is one of contemporary music’s most accomplished songwriters, musicians, and performers. Jeff has released three solo albums, written original songs for twelve Wilco albums, and is the author of two New York Times’ Bestsellers, Let’s Go (So We Can Get Back): A Memoir of Recording and Discording with Wilco, etc. and How To Write One Song. 9:30 Club, 815 V St. NE, on Tuesday, June 27, 6:30 p.m. $55. 930.com.

C A P I T O L H I L L P R I D E

Celebrate The LGBTQ Community in June!

Little District Books

737 8th Street, SE

littledistrictbooks.com

Pride Sip and Shop - Sunday June 4th, 11am-6pm (Free)

We are kicking off Pride Month with a sip and shop. Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine (21+) or tea (all ages) while shopping for your Pride Month reading! We will also be donating a portion of the days sales to the DC Center for the LGBT Community.

Pride Party - Thursday June 22nd, 6:30pm-9pm ($40)

Whether you are single, besties, a couple, throuple, or more, join us for a queer bookish social event! Each ticket includes: appetizers and desserts, beverages (non-alcoholic), a $15 book shopping credit, and a surprise or two. Book your ticket at littledistrictbooks.com.

First Anniversary CelebrationSaturday June 24th, 10am-6pm (Free)

In honor of our one year in business, we will be having an open house celebration throughout the day! We will have free refreshments for customers, giveaways throughout the day, and a few surprises too. Come by and toast to a great year in queer reading!

As You Are

500 8th Street SE

asyouaredc.com

6/3 - Flower Factory Dance Party 4pm $5

6/4 - Fundraiser Brunch

“Un Verano Sin Transphobia” 12pm $15

6/8 - Greetings From Queer Mountain Storytelling

8pm

6/10 - Cafecito Drag Show 10pm

6/14 - Pride Open Mic 7pm

6/16 - Inseccuri-tea Drag Show 10pm

6/17 - Carpe DM Pride Singles Mixer 5pm

6/20 - NOH8 photo shoot

6:30pm

6/23 - More Than Strangers Intergenerational Happy Hour 7pm

6/24 - Latinx Pride DJ Showcaswe 9pm

6/28 - Khush DC Poetry Reading 7pm

6/30 - The Trans Agenda

Crazy Aunt Helen’s

713 8th Street SE

crazyaunthelens.com

6/3 - Wild N Wacky Drag Brunch

6/3 - Bingo and A Show with Tara Hoot & Friends

6/4 - Jam Session with K’La Soul!

6/7 - Gift of Gab! Celebrating Women & Non-Binary Comics

6/9 - Salut to Divas Staring Shiqueeta-Lee

6/10 - Glass House & Variety Show

6/11 - The Trifecta

6/12 - Curtain Call Open Mic Night

6/14 - Foxxy Moron Comedy Hour

6/17 - Shiqueeta-Lee’s Gospel Brunch

6/17 - Sherry Vine is Everybody’s Girl

6/18 - Codependent Cabaret

6/21 - A Night of Improv with Sistine Robot

6/22 - A Comedy Bonfyre Presents: The Pride Special!

Mr. Henry’s

601 Penn. Avenue, SE mrhenrysdc.com

6/1 - Don Dillingham

6/2 - The Hot Lanes

6/3 - Batida Diferente

6/4 - Boozy Board Game night with Labyrinth

6/8 - Steve Washington

6/9 - Elijah Balbed

6/10 - Capitol Jazz Orchestra

6/15 - Addie Stan

6/16 - Fran Vielma Orchestra

6/17 - Darcy Cooke

6/22 - Jack Feder

6/23 - 4 on the Floor

6/24 - Andrew Musselman

6/29 - Tony Gidell

6/30 - Debra Galan

CAPITOL HILL JAZZ JAM

6/24 - Drag Queen Story Time with Tara Hoot

6/25 - Kailasa’s Mount Temple Voyas

6/23 - Foxxy Moron Comedy Hour

EVERY WEDNESDAY NIGHT! Drag Show 10pm 6/30

Summer Special

Frank Stewart, Stomping the Blues, 1997, Gelatin silver print, 16 x 20 in., Collection of Rob Gibson, Savannah

FRANK STEWART’S NEXUS AT THE PHILLIPS

Frank Stewart’s Nexus: An American Photographer’s Journey, 1960s to the Present is a dynamic retrospective of Stewart’s photography that centers on his sensitive and spontaneous approach to portraying world cultures and Black life in many forms—including music, art, travel, food, and dance. His work over the years captured intimate and empathetic images of lives experienced and observed across subjects, cities, and countries. 1600 21st St. NW, from June 10 to Sept. 3. Admission is $16; $12 for seniors; and $10 for students and military; free for 18 and under. Phillipscollection.org.

SWEAT AT THE KEEGAN

Filled with warm humor and tremendous heart, SWEAT, the Pulitzer Prize winning play by Lynn Nottage tells the story of a group of friends who have spent their lives sharing drinks, secrets, and laughs while working together on the factory floor. But when layoffs and picket lines begin to chip away at their trust, the friends find themselves pitted against each other in a heart-wrenching fight to stay afloat. SWEAT is at the Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church St. NW, from Aug. 19 to Sept. 16. $45 to $55. keegantheatre.com.

OUT & ABOUT FESTIVAL AT WOLF TRAP

Out & About Festival is a two-day, three-stage festival of music and nature headlined by Brandi Carlile. Out & About celebrates pride by spotlighting LGBTQ+ artists and allies who live out loud. Out & About features Brandi Carlile, Yola, Lucius, Refus Wanwright, Celisse, Brandy Clark, Jake Wesley Rogers, Bad Moves, Oh He Dead Alphabet Rockers and Jazzy Ash. The Festival is on Saturday, June 24 and Sunday, June 25, starting at 4 p.m., each day, gates at 3 p.m. Tickets are $75, up. Wolf Trap, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, VA. wolftrap.org.

TREASURES AND TROUBLE: LOOKING INSIDE A LEGENDARY BLUES ARCHIVE

Starting on June 23, highlights from a recently acquired, one-of-a-kind archive documenting the blues as compiled by Robert “Mack” McCormick will be featured in the Smithsonian Museum of American History Archives Center cases. The late McCormick, who died in 2015, was a Houston-based, self-trained folklorist who built one of the world’s largest and most significant blues archives, with research materials on hundreds of artists beginning in the 1950s (and the collection contains items dating well before that). The display will ask visitors to consider questions such as how has history been told and who has done the telling? americanhistory.si.edu.

Brandi Carlile

FUN

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS all summer long

Free Chess in the Park - 1pm to 4 pm

Friday, June 2nd I 9th I 16th I 23rd I 30th

Music in the Park - 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm

Friday, June 2nd I 16th

R&B in the Park - Eastern Market

Metro Park

Friday, June 9th I 23rd - 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm

Jazz First Friday - 6:00 pm to 10 pm

Friday, June 2nd

Eastern Market Metro Park, 8th Street SE

Eastern Market Funky Friday -

Friday, June 30 - 4 pm to 8 pm

C Street Plaza

Fitness in the Park Class - 10 am to 11:00 am

Saturday, June 3rd I 10th I 17th I 24rd I Friday, June 30th

Yoga in the Park by District Yoga -

Eastern Market Metro Park - 10 am to 11 am

Saturday, June 3rd I 10th I 17th I 24th

The Great Zucchini - Eastern Market Metro Park

Saturday, June 3rd - 10:30 am to 11:30 am

Pride Carnival - Eastern Market Metro Park

Saturday, June 3rd - 12 noon - 3:00 pm

Electric Disco - 8th Street SE

Saturday June 10th - 8 pm to 3 am

Chess Tournament - Eastern Market Metro Park

Saturday, June 24th - 10:30 am to 1:30 pm

Barracks Row Main Street Garden Party

Tuesday, June 13th, 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm - 700 Penn Building SE

Turning the Page Book Sales - Eastern Market Metro Park

Sunday June 25th - 11 am to 4 pm

For Main Street and Eastern Market Metro Plaza Park info, visit:

WOW!

Summer Special

AY-O’S HAPPY RAINBOW HELL AT THE SACKLER

Born in 1931, the Japanese artist Ay-Ō (pronounced “eye-oh”) moved to New York in 1958 where he would soon become a member of the avant-garde group of artists, poets, and performers known as Fluxus. As a part of Fluxus, Ay-Ō produced many works that focus on tactile experiences, such as the Finger Boxes: wooden boxes with hidden compartments that contain objects participants can only touch, not see. Driven by his vibrant sense of humor and curiosity, Ay-Ō’s greatest output has been in rainbow-hued silkscreen prints that cover a wide range of subjects, from treatments of the human body and the animal kingdom to abstract compositions and extending to rainbow reinterpretations of other artists’ works. Happy Rainbow Hell is at the Sackler Gallery, 1050 Independence Ave. SW, through Sept. 10. si.edu/museums/sackler-gallery.

AROUND THE WORLD CULTURAL FOOD FESTIVAL

The annual Around the World Cultural Food Festival is on Saturday, Aug. 26, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Oronoco Bay Park in Old Town Alexandria on the waterfront. Admission is free and there are many traditional beverages and dishes to purchase and with only one food vendor per country, they have selected the best or the best for festival attendees. There will also be singers, dancers, ethic artisans and crafters from around the world. aroundtheworldfestival.com.

CYRANO DE BERGERAC AT SYNETIC

Cyrano de Bergerac, a brilliant poet and soldier, possesses enormous wit, tremendous bravery, and an unmistakable feature –a nose that could rival mountains. Lacking confidence and good looks, Cyrano is hopelessly in love with his longtime friend and endearing companion, Roxanne. He lives vicariously through the handsome Christian as he ghostwrites poetic love letters to his beloved, signed by his own romantic rival. Synetic Theater’s clowning, commedia-inspired adaptation takes audiences on a journey through the beauty of romance, loyalty, and sacrifice.Suitable for ages six and older, is at Synetic Theater, 1800 S. Bell St., Arlington, VA, from July 14 to Aug. 13. Tickets are $35 to $65. synetictheater.org.

Ay-Ō’s Happy Rainbow Hell, through Sept. 10, 2023, National Museum of Asian Art, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC. Photo: Colleen Dugan

Vato Tsikurishvili as Cyrano with Maryam Najafzada as Roxanne.

Photo: Johnny Shryock

WOW! Summer Special

COMPAGNIE KAFIG: PIXEL AT THE KC

Lyon-based Compagnie Käfig merges elements of hip hop with modern dance, circus, and digital arts in its breakneck production Pixel. Seen by audiences in more than 30 countries around the world, Pixel is a mind-blowing mix of virtuoso Hip Hop dance with cutting-edge digital projection. It is a masterpiece featuring the company’s 11 outstanding dancers navigating a sophisticated interactive environment of light and video projections that confounds our perceptions of what is virtual and what is real. Compagnie Käfig’s Pizel is at the Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater from Aug. 30 to Sept. 1, at 8 p.m., all evenings. $25 to $99. Kennedy-center.org.

DC BLACK FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

On Saturday, July 1, 2 to 9:30 p.m., sip, savor, and socialize at the DC Black Food and Wine Festival – an event that brings together the best of AfricanAmerican cuisine and culture. Indulge in the flavors of black-owned food purveyors, enjoy tastings of fine wines, and discover new culinary delights. With live music, cooking demonstrations, and plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow foodies, this festival is the perfect way to sip, savor, and socialize your way through the DC culinary scene, picnic style. The DC Black Food & Wine Festival, an adults only event, for 21+ with ID, is at the Gateway Pavilion, 2700 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE. Admission is $40 to $155. dcbfw.com.

DIANA ROSS AT WOLF TRAP

Diana Ross’s Musical Legacy Tour stops at Wolf Trap for a onenight-only performance on Saturday, July 1, 8 p.m. (gates at 6:30 p.m.). From “I’m Coming Out” to “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “Stop in the Name of Love,” Diana Ross’ iconic songs are the soundtrack of a generation. Tickets start at $52. Wolf Trap, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, VA. wolftrap.org.

COLUMBIA PIKE BLUES FESTIVAL

Every summer since 1995, Columbia Pike has hosted the largest Blues Festival in the DC metropolitan area. This free outdoor music event, on Saturday, June 17, 1 to 8:30 p.m., sees thousands of residents and visitors come together each year in South Arlington. From live blues, jazz, and bluegrass music to an art alley, a kid zone, family-friendly activities, craft beer and wine and local vendors, you’ll find something for everyone at what has been called Arlington’s best block party. The Festival stretches down S. Walter Reed Dr. from Columbia Pike to Ninth St. S. co- lumbia-pike.org/bluesfest-2023.

Photo: Josh Brick Graphics

Photo: Laurent Philippe

WOW!

Summer Special

AFTERNOON AND EVENING CONCERTS AT THE SMITHSONIAN FOLKLIFE FESTIVAL

The Smithsonian Folklife Festival takes place on the National Mall from June 29 to July 4 and July 6 to 9. General Festival hours are 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Here’s the main stage concert lineup: June 29, 6 to 9 p.m., An Evening with Ozarks Women; June 30, 6 to 9 p.m., Gospel Music Legacies; July 1, 6 to 8 p.m., and 8 to 9:30 p.m., Community Square-dance; July 2, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Singing Together; July 4, 2:30 to 4 p.m., De Libertate: Sounds of Freedom and Hope from Ukraine, 5 to 5:45 p.m., Singing Through the Dark, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Ozark Mountain Daredevils; July 6, 2 to 3 p.m., Ozark Mountain Daredevils. 6 to 8 p.m., Ozarks Opry, 8:30 to 10 p.m., Folkways at 75; July 7, noon to 1 p.m. Nick Shoulders, 6 to 8 p.m., Memorias de Agua: An Evening of Film, Dance, and Music; July 8, 1 to 2 p.m., Willie Carlisle, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Sad Daddy, The Creek Rocks and Po Ramblin Boys, 8:30 to 10 p.m., Community Square Dance; July 9, noon to 1 p.m., DJ Dwayne Powell, 5 to 6:30 p.m., Memorias de Agua: An Evening of Film, Dance, and Music. Everything’s free. festival.si.edu.

THE FIRST AID KIT PALOMINO TOUR AT THE ANTHEM

Palomino horses aren’t usually born with the golden coats that they’re eventually known for. Instead, they grow into their striking splendor as the years pass. In similar fashion, First Aid Kit has grown into the majesty and magic of their sound. The sister duo – Klara and Johanna Söderberg – share stories of heartbreak, happiness, life, and love above a patchwork of natural instrumentation. After quietly amassing over one billion streams and earning widespread acclaim, the duo shine like never before on their aptly titled Palomino Tour. First Aid Kit is at The Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW, on Friday, July 14, 8 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.). $40 to $65. theanthemdc.com.

SHAKTI: 50TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR AT WOLF TRAP

Shakti was formed in 1974 by guitarist John McLaughlin, violinist L Shankar, and percussionists Zakir Hussain (tabla) and T H Vinayakram (ghatam) in an effort to further world music. On Wednesday, Aug. 23, 7:30 p.m. (gates at 6 p.m.), this powerhouse group steps onto the Filene Center stage to bring their fusion of Indian music (a mix of Hindus-tani and Carnatic music) and jazz to audiences. Grammy award-winning banjo visionary Béla Fleck hits the stage first to heat up the night. Tickets are $35, up. Wolf Trap, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna, VA. wolftrap.org.

RETURN TO A NATIVE PLACE: ALGONQUIAN PEOPLES OF THE CHESAPEAKE

Meet the Native peoples of the Chesapeake Bay region–what is now Washington, DC, Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware–through photographs, maps, ceremonial and everyday objects, and interactives. This compact exhibition at the Smithsonian Museum of the American Indian, Fourth Street and Independence Avenue SW, educates visitors on the continued Native presence in the region and provides an overview of the history and events from the 1600s to the present that have impacted the lives of the Nanticoke, Powhatan, and Piscataway tribes. The exhibition, on view indefinitely, was curated by Gabrielle Tayac, Ph.D. (Piscataway). americanindian.si.edu.

Photo: Courtesy of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian

Po Ramblin Boys Appear July 6, 6 to 8:30 p.m.

First Aid Kit, Klara and Johanna Söderberg

Summer Special

CAPITAL FRINGE FESTIVAL

This year’s Capital Fringe Festival, an annual celebration of theatre and freedom of expression, is June 12 to 23. In 2023, the Capital Fringe Festival will feature almost entirely original theatre, dance, and unclassifiable productions with a total of 275 cast and crew members, 75% of whom are from the DMV area. This year’s productions open an exploration into an array of human experiences, ranging from the tragic Knickerbocker Theatre collapse to the comedic relief of stand-up performances. There is a new two-person Romeo & Juliet and stories influenced by Indigenous, Black, Queer, and Femme perspectives to a musical deep dive into legends of bluegrass music. All shows run for 50 to 75 minutes. Ticket sales go live on June 21. capitalfringe.org.

RORSCHACH’S ANGEL NUMBER NINE @ WASHINGTON SQUARE

When Angel meets Cupid in a bar and her band gets an opening slot on a tour, life takes some unexpected turns into a past she tried to leave behind. Part rock show, part booze-soaked road trip through the dive bars and dark clubs of the late 90s east coast music scene, Angel Number Nine shows us that the things we need are sometimes found on the roads we tried to avoid. Rorschach has transformed a two-level former retail space at 1020 Connecticut Ave. NW into a dingy 90s rock club, complete with a working bar. There is also a pre-show experience with curated listening stations, vinyl for sale, and an exhibit highlighting hidden histories of DC music. Rorschach @ Washington Square, 1020 Connecticut Ave. NW, from July 7 to 30. Mature content. $10 to $45. rorschachtheatre.com.

RE:SET CONCERT SERIES AT MERRIWEATHER POST

The organizers have challenged themselves to conceive an event that would give both the artists and the fans a different experience, At the end of the day, they both want the same thing: incredible sound, fantastic sightlines, and the best local options for food and drinks. Re:SET is a very fairly priced, artist-driven evening where you can hang with friends and enjoy amazing music. The Re:SET Concert Series is Friday, June 16 to Sunday, June 18, 5 p.m. (gates at 4 p.m.), each day, at Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia, MD. On Friday, Boygenius; on Saturday, Steve Lacey; and on Sunday, LCD Soundsystem. $99 to $129.50; $250 for three days. merriweathermusic.com.

AN EVENING WITH GEORGE CLINTON AND PARLIAMENT FUNKADELIC

As one of the foremost innovators of Funk, George Clinton is the mastermind behind the legendary Parliament Funkadelic, creating a uniquely identifiable and timeless art that has lifted Funk to an internationally recognized and respected musical genre. His incredible ingenuity has earned George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic their rightful place in music history: an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and recipients of the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U St. NW, on Sunday, Aug. 13, 8 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.). $95. thelincolndc.com.

LOCAL CALENDAR

Jazz and Blues in Southwest. Jazz on Fridays; Blues on Mondays, 6 to 9 p.m. Jazz schedule: June 2, Tim Green & Friends; June 9, Masonic Trip Masters; June 16, Legendary Rick Whitehead Quartet; June 23, Tribute to Freddie Hubbard Michael Thomas Quintet; June 30, Sharon Clark & Friends. Blues schedule: June 5, Nucleus & Friends Band 5G; June 12, B4 Brothers from Other Mothers; June 19, The Bluesman & The Muleman; June 26, The Nighthawks. $10 cover. Children are welcome and free under 16 years old. Reasonably priced meals offered. Westminster Presbyterian Church, 400 I St. SW (Fourth and I, south side of intersection). westminsterdc.org.

Tai Chi Chuan at Hill Center. Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon. Classes are conducted in a relaxed, go-atyour-own-pace, collegial spirit infused with the seriousness that the study of Tai Chi demands. Both beginner and intermediate classes are offered. Intermediate and advanced students learn push hands, saber, sword and spear. hillcenterdc.org.

Plot Twist: Yoga in the Cemetery. Saturdays, 11 a.m. to noon, through August. Join the teachers of St. Mark’s Yoga Center for Plot Twist: Yoga at the Cemetery. This Vinyasa yoga class will be accessible to yogis of all levels. $10. Congressional Cemetery is at 1801 E St. SE. congressionalcemetery.org.

We Happy Few’s Iphigenia. Through June 18.

Travel to the sunny beaches of Ancient Greece, where the Greek soldiers have been stranded for months, waiting for a breath of wind so that they can sail their thousand ships to Troy and fight the most famous war in history. $25, up. CHAW, 545 Seventh St. SE. wehappyfewdc.com.

Exclusion at Arena.

Through June 25. In Exclusion, an award-winning historian is thrilled when her best-selling book about the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 is optioned for a mini-series by a Hollywood mogul. Her euphoria turns to disillusionment as she finds herself constantly defending its authenticity in the struggle between what’s true and what sells. $56 to $72. Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SW. arenastage.org.

Mosaic’s One in Two. Through June 25. Three Black queer men sit in an ethereal waiting room inviting audiences to join them in a whimsical theatrical experiment that is equal parts harrowing, hilarious, and hopeful. $29 to $50. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. atlasarts.org.

LOC Concerts. June 8, 8 p.m., Bill Charlap Trio with Jon Gaddis, Trumpet; June 10, 8 p.m. Big Band Evening with Russell Malone, Guitar. Coolidge Auditorium. loc.gov.

NoMa Nights: Tuesday Concert Series with DC Fray. Enjoy live, acoustic performances from local bands and family-friendly games on the second Tuesday, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., of each month, through September. Here’s the remaining lineup: June 13, Junior Bryce Band; July 11, Pebble to Pearl; Aug 8, Darcy Dawn ; Sept 12, Andy B Music. Alethia Tanner Park, 227 Harry Thomas Way NE. nomabid.org.

The Congressional Baseball Game for Charity at Nat’s Park. June 14, 7:05 p.m. Since 1909 the Congressional Baseball Game has been an annual bipartisan event beloved by all and enjoyed by thousands. Members of the United States Congress from each party solidify friendships off the floor and on the field. Tickets are $10 to $15. congressionalbaseball.org.

First Fridays Cinematery at Congressional Cemetery. June to September, 8:30 p.m. Here’s the lineup: June 2, Alice In Wonderland; July 7, The Nightmare Before Christmas; Aug. 4, Batman; Sept. 1, Dark Shadows. $10 donation. Congressional Cemetery is at 1801 E St. SE. congressionalcemetery.org.

VOCA Presents at Raisin in the Sun. June 21 to July 2. A poignant drama that almost everyone can relate to, which is to pursue and live their American dream. Visionaries of the Creative Arts (VOCA) supports the works of the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing BIPOC artists all together locally and nationwide. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. atlasarts.org.

Brought

Sharon Clark & Friends performs on Friday, June 30.

WOW! Summer Special

On June 17, 2021, President Biden signed a bill into law establishing Juneteenth as a federal holiday.

The freedom promised in the Emancipation Proclamation was finally delivered to 250,000 people who remained enslaved in Texas two and a half years after President Lincoln’s historic proclamation. On June 19, 1865, US Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger issued General Order 3, which informed the people of Texas that all enslaved persons in the state were now free. This day has come to be known as Juneteenth, a combination of June and 19th. It is also called Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, and it is the oldest known celebration commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.

JUNETEENTH CALENDAR

Heroes Of Civil Rights Specialty Tours at the Capitol. Weekdays at 3 p.m. Sojourner Truth, Frederick Douglass and Charles Sumner 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. Ask about the availability of free passes at the Information Desk in Emancipation Hall. Lasts one hour. visitthecapitol.gov

Juneteenth Commemorative Collection. The National Museum of African American History and Culture Juneteenth Merchandise Collection has launched. It includes tote bags, scarves, tumblers, shirts, towels and more. Visit nmaahc.si.edu/visit/museum-store.

Juneteenth Celebration at Church of the Epiphany. Tuesday, June 13, 12:10 p.m. Saxophonist Irvin Peterson and organist David Houston will perform music of Leo Sowerby, Paule Maurice, Duke Ellington, Jimmy Dorsey and others. Free: donations accepted. 1317 G St. NW. epiphanydc.org.

The 272: The Families Who Were Enslaved and Sold to Build the American Catholic Church. June 14, 7 p.m. New York Times writer Rachel Swarns discusses her book The 272, in conversation with Pulitzer PrizeWinning Historian Marcia Chatelain. In 1838, a group of America’s most prominent Jesuit priests sold 272 enslaved people to save their largest mission project, what is now Georgetown University. $10. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. hillcenterdc.org.

Extraordinary Cinema: Miss Juneteenth. Friday, June 16, 8 p.m. Miss

Juneteenth is a drama about a former beauty queen and single mother prepares her rebellious teenage daughter for the Miss Juneteenth pageant. Free, no tickets needed. Miss Juneteenth shown outdoors on the REACH Video Wall. kennedy-center.org.

Bread for the City Juneteenth Block Party Celebration. Saturday, June 17, 1 to 5 p.m., join Bread for the City, 1700 Good Hope Rd. SE, for their second annual celebration and enjoy music and sounds of the culture while dining and shopping with various black-owned businesses. Enjoy presentations and performances throughout the day. breadforthecity.org.

History Alive!: USCT: Juneteenth: What it Means, and Why We Celebrate. Saturday, June 17, 30-minute performances at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at C3/Landing Area 1. Free, walk in. National Museum of African American History and Culture, 1499 Constitution Ave. NW. nmaahc.si.edu.

Town of Cheverly Juneteenth Celebration. Saturday, June 17, starts at noon. The event features Juneteenth flag raising ceremony with the Buffalo Soldiers, vendors, food for purchase, three-on-three basketball, raffles and live music. Bring lawn chairs.

One Life: Frederick Douglass. On Friday, June 16, 3 to 4 p.m., join guest curator John Stauffer, Sumner R. and Marshall S. Kates Professor of English and of African and African American Studies at Harvard University, and Ann Shumard, the museum’s senior curator of photographs, for a tour of “One Life: Frederick Douglass.” Free; registration recommended. National Portrait Gallery, Eighth and G streets. NW. npg.si.edu.

Slavery and Freedom in the White House Collection. This new virtual exhibit explores 200 years of objects, furnishings, and artwork and slavery’s in uence on the ideas, people and movements that shaped the White House. whitehousehistory.org.

Asking: $1,599,00

Cheverly Town Park, 6401 Forest Rd., Cheverly, MD. cheverly-md.gov.

African Americans at Congressional Cemetery: Guided Docent Tour. Saturday, June 17, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. From the formerly enslaved, to philosophers, to DC’s Mayor for Life, come and join one of their expert docents for an exploration of African American history in honor of the Juneteenth holiday. $5 donation. Congressional Cemetery is at 1801 E St. SE. congressionalcemetery.org.

Celebrate Juneteenth on the Brookland Arts Walk. Sunday, June 18, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy performances, shopping at a black-owned marketplace, crafts, music and more on 716 Monroe St. NE. celebratejuneteenthdc.com.

MGM Grand Ballroom Juneteenth Celebration. Sunday, June 18, 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Live performances by

DCVYBE with Frank “Scooby” Sirius; The Crank Crusaders; Black Alley; TOPS5; and DJs Shablas and Windy City. $60 to $100. mgmnationalharbor.mgmresorts.com.

Juneteenth Reparations Rally 2023. Sunday, June 18, noon to midnight. This is a multi-generational and festive rally packed with information that a ects Black American lives. Sylvan Theater at Independence Ave. SW and 15th St. NW. reparations2023.com.

Anacostia Community Museum

Juneteenth Celebration: Unity. Freedom. Acknowledgment. Monday, June 19, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Activities include Juneteenth Main Stage curated together with PorchFest DC--Southeast Edition, featuring local talent throughout the day; East of the River trivia; interactive activities with the National Portrait Gallery; a double dutch contest; and an urban gardening workshop.

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Registration recommended. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacoatia.si.edu.

DC Black History Juneteenth Music Festival. Monday, June 19, noon to 6 p.m. Vermont Avenue NW, between U and T streets. dcblackhistory.org.

Scotland Juneteenth Heritage Festival. Monday, June 19, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The festival will also include an interfaith and social action pavilion; a health & wellness pavilion; a

Juneteenth Half Marathon & 10k. Saturday, June 17, 6:19 a.m. Both start at Fort Stanton Park, 1820 Erie St. SE and take runners along the entirety of the Civil War Defenses of Washington Trail. Free registration. juneteenthmarathon.org.

Montgomery County Juneteenth Celebration. Saturday, June 17, noon to 10 p.m. BlackRock Center for the Arts, 12901 Town Commons Dr., Germantown, MD. For more information, visit blackrockcenter. org/Juneteenth.

food court; classic auto show; 5k and fun run; music stage; baseball, art pavilion, lm festival and children’s carnival and will be spread across the Cabin John Regional Park, Cabin John Village and the Scotland community on Seven Locks Road. juneteenthscotland.org.

Montgomery County Juneteenth Celebration. Saturday, June 17, noon to 10 p.m. BlackRock Center for the Arts, 12901 Town Commons Dr., Germantown, MD. For more information, visit blackrockcenter. org/Juneteenth.

Light in the Darkness: When Monuments Attack. Wednesday, June 21, 7 p.m. The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture and The Washington National Cathedral will host a discussion exploring the politics of memory and how questions and debates about memorials and monuments help to understand the past and present around matters of race, community, identity, and nation. National Museum of African American History and Culture, 1499 Constitution Ave. NW. nmaahc. si.edu. ◆

Headlining this year’s event is Sa-Roc who refined a lyrical style that drew from both social awareness and painful personal experiences.

BASEBALLBIRTHRIGHT.COM

“The games seem like minutes, but the memories last forever.”

WEBINAR: DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE, SECURITIES AND BANKING COFFEE AND CAPITAL

Thursday, June 1, 2023 • 10:00 am Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/59414

WEBINAR: LEARN HOW TO BECOME A CERTIFIED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (CBE)

Wednesday, June 7, 2023 • 10:00 am Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/58980

SHORT-TERM RENTAL (AIRBNB) ORDINANCE WEBINAR

Wednesday, June 7, 2023 • 9:30 am Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/61737

WEBINAR: ALL THINGS NON-PROFIT

Thursday, June 8, 2023 • 10:00 am Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/59402

WEBINAR: BUSINESS FOUNDATION SERIES: THE BUSINESS MODEL CANVAS

Thursday, June 8, 2023 • 2:00 pm Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/60454

WEBINAR: MHCDO PARTNERSHIP: STEPS TO OBTAINING A BUSINESS LICENSE

Wednesday, June 14, 2023 • 6:00 pm Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/59410

STREET AND SIDEWALK VENDING WORKSHOP (IN-PERSON AND VIRTUAL)

Thursday, June 15, 2023 • 5:00 pm Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/62156

WEBINAR: BUSINESS FOUNDATION SERIES: THE LEAN BUSINESS PLAN

Thursday, June 22, 2023 • 2:00 pm Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/60459

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

LLAMADA TELEFONICA: 1:1 PASOS PARA OBTENER UNA LICENCIA COMERCIAL CON LA SRA. HERRERA

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MEET IN PERSON MONDAY - 1.1 BUSINESS SESSION

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

Capitol Hill Fall ArtWalk: Calling All Artists

If You’re An Artist, Sign Up Now for the Annual Celebration of Local Art

This fall the Capitol Hill Restoration Society (CHRS) and the Capitol Hill Art League will sponsor a two-day art walk on September 9 and 10th. It will be free for both artists and crafters and free to the public. An expanding list of participating artists is already posted on the CHRS website where it is easily available to the public, and art patrons: curious individuals can walk across the Hill and visit many different artists.

Elizabeth Nelson, Chair of the CHRS Community Relations Committee, says, “In 2021,we were challenged to have a House Tour experience that would be entirely outdoors. We planned a series of themed outdoor walking tours but felt that we needed to do something more focused on homes. So, we invited Capitol Hill artists and artisans to show their work in mini galleries in their yards or on their porches.

“To our delight, it was hugely popular, and we’ve since fielded many inquiries as to when we might do it again. Not wanting to disappoint our neighbors, we are partnering with CHAL to have a similar event in September,” she said.

CHAL Steering Committee member, Tara Hamilton is enthusiastic about the chance to meet and join with other artists to participate in the walk. “The Art League members and other artists on Capitol Hill have so much to offer in their different media and styles. We hope they will participate in this Art Walk to share their creativity with the public.”

Calling all Artists and Crafters

Artists on the Hill can open their homes or studios, or that can put their art out on the sidewalk in front of their homes. Many artists grouped together in one location in the previous CHRS tour and found it fun and a draw for art enthusiasts. There is no fee or commissions taken by the walk organizers. It is up to the artist to price and market their art their own way. Artists are encouraged to participate both days but can also participate one day.

CHRS and CHAL are ready to show DC how much great art is created and

available in the Hill neighborhood. Artists can easily sign up for free at the CHRS website, www.chrs.org/art-walk-2023. The deadline is August 6, 2023, to be assured your location is listed on the Art Walk materials. u

article by Rindy O’Brien, photos courtesy CHRS

The 2021 CHRS art walk was a huge success. Artists gathered in front of their homes with other artists like this set up at 11th Street and East Capitol.

Murals are plentiful on Capitol Hill, and make a big visual impact.

The Capitol Hill Art League members were happy to be together after the long stretch of Covid quarantine.

For more information and to register, please go to

PHOTO CONTEST!

CATEGORIES :

• Best Overall Photos

• Darling Dogs

• Finest Felines

• Cleverest Caption

• Best Buddies

• Human & Pet Best Buddies

• Hill Haunts

Send us your favorite pet photos for a chance at fame!

Winning entries will be published in the July Hill Rag, our Special Pet Issue, and on our website at hillrag.com.

TO ENTER:

Email to pets@hillrag.com OR mail to PO BOX 15477 Washington, DC 20003

(make sure your photo is over 300 DPI, photos cannot be returned)

• Maximum of two photos per entry. Include your name, a phone number, the name of your pet, a caption and category for the photo.

DEADLINE: 6/17/23

PUBLICATION DATE: 7/1/23

FOLGER

“For You, Not Just the Few”

Folger Shakespeare Library Set to Reopen Nov. 17

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

You descend from East Capitol Street into a little garden oasis, planted with fairy tale flowers from early modern England. Soon, there will be poetry readings and tours here; now, you just dally for a moment before you let the sunlight follow you through the glass doors and into the below-grade entrance to the newly renovated Folger Shakespeare Library (201 East Capitol St. SE).

Greeted in the newly built lobby, you pass the gift shop. There, you make the difficult decision: turn left, into the north gallery, to see the entire collection of Shakespeare’s works in one room? Or turn right into the new south gallery to see rarely displayed literary-historical pieces on display.

Afterwards, you take the elevator upstairs to the Folger’s famous Great Hall, stopping at the cafe or bar where you sit with a beverage under the soaring plaster strapwork ceiling.

This is the experience you can have when the Folger Shakespeare Library reopens to the public Nov. 17. Following the completion of its two-and-a-half year renovation, the Folger building will better reflect its mission: the Folger is letting the outside in.

“Honestly, I really do think the story is, this is a place for everyone,” said Folger Shakespeare Library Program Director Ruth Ann Daniels. “More tours, more children, more everyone coming into the building.”

“When those doors swing open, this is for you — it’s not just for the few.”

Mission in Marble

The Folger was established in 1932 by Henry and Emily Folger. The building was a gift to the American people, together with their collection of Shakespeare materials —the world’s largest then and now. It has since expanded its holdings to become a world-class research and resource center for Shakespeare studies.

In 1969, O.B. Hardison became Director of the Folger. He immediately moved to make the research institution more accessible to the public, creating outreach and education programs. He founded what is now the Shakespeare Theater at the

Rendering showing the west entry at East Capitol and Second Streets SE. Image: Kieran-Timberlake/OLIN Courtesy Folger Shakespeare Library

RIGHT: Work underway at the corner of East Capitol and Second Streets SE, May 22, 2023. Photo: E.O’Gorek/CCN

View from east as crane lowers marble block back into place May 16, after construction on below-grade addition is complete. Photo: Lloyd Wolf, Courtesy Folger Shakespeare Library

Folger and introduced concerts by the Folger Consort.

The mission continued with readings in his honor, the O.B. Hardison Poetry Series; the publication of the Folger Shakespeare Library editions; and myriad other programs and online resources. During the building renovation, the Folger team expanded their outreach by introducing themselves, the institution’s programs and resources in all eight wards of the District.

All this is in service of the Folger Library mission: to advance understanding and appreciation of Shakespeare by preserving and enhancing an accessible collection.

“If your whole purpose is to keep it for posterity for future generations, but most people can’t actually get in to see it or use it, what good is it?” Daniels said. “The idea is to shift that.”

The renovation opens up the Folger both literally and figuratively, allowing public enjoyment of the grounds, building, events, resources and collections with improved accessibility throughout, including with additional elevators and ramps in the historic building.

“It will give us the ability to fulfill our mission in a way that we’ve never really been able to do before,” said Folger Director Dr. Michael Witmore.

Witmore was appointed Director of the Folger in 2011, and immediately began working with the Board of Governors to draft a strategic plan, adopted in 2013. That led to the development of a facilities master plan for the Folger spaces, on which the renovations are based.

“It was in the course of finishing that master plan that we realized the first and vital piece to begin with would be to truly open up the building and put the pieces of our program and mission together in a complementary way,” he told the Hill Rag as renovation got underway in 2020.

Opening Up the Building

The biggest change was the addition of interior rooms underground below the plinth, the el-

evated platform along East Capitol Street, which houses the two new exhibition spaces. In addition to the North and South Galleries, the expansion includes a gift shop and washroom facilities supporting the galleries and theatre. It also adds two elevators that will provide accessibility within the building, including to the theatre balconies.

On the exterior, the building’s main entrances will be relocated to newly created East and West public gardens. A sloping walkway will make the plinth accessible so that visitors can see the nine famous bas-reliefs along the façade, created by sculptor John Gregory (1879-1958). Each depicts a scene from a different Shakespeare play. When the building was designed, the Folgers asked for the placement near street level, rather than along the roofline, to give the public a better view.

“The idea is that the whole perimeter of the building can return to its original vision, which is an open garden with the building sitting in the middle of it,” said Stephen Kieran of Kieran-Timberlake, the architecture firm engaged for the project.

All of the entrances are fully accessible, as well as the interior space and the exterior plinth, graded to allow access at the front of the building. It’s a critical improvement that is echoed inside, where stairs once inhibited accessibility to exhibits. Ramps and elevators now ensure access for all.

The exterior of the building was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1963 and the interior was added to the register in 2018. So, much of the main building remains the same, aside from

improvements to accessibility and a new carpet in the library. But there is one change on the main floor you have to see: the Great Hall has been transformed from an exhibit space to a public gathering place, including a cafe and bar open to the public.

At 130 feet long with 30-foot ceilings, the Great Hall evokes the gallery of a 16th century manor. The walls are paneled in darkstained Appalachian White Oak, with a bust of Shakespeare carved by Gregory, the artist responsible for the bas-relief on the exterior. The terra-cotta floors include a floral band bordering the room that lists the titles of Shakespeare best-known plays.

Programming to Continue

Witmore said that the galleries will allow the Folger to display many of the most rare and wellknown items in its collection. For the first time the library will display all 82 copies of Shakespeare’s First Folios together. There are only 235 known copies of the First Folio, the collection of works by Shakespeare printed in 1623. Interactive displays will help visitors explore Shakespeare, his work and world and the reasons why the folios are important today.

Programming will be thematically interwoven, bringing exhibitions, learning, performances, and humanities in deep alignment. The South Gallery will host an ever-changing exhibition of the items in the Folger Collection, beginning with a display of rarely seen books and other items from the extraordinary collection of Stuart and Mimi Rose, for whom the Hall is named. It will be an active cultural space as well as museum, Daniels said.

The new Learning Lab will allow a designated space for learning and education throughout the day, and the programming in these spaces will be designed, together with performances by the Folger Theater, to tell a more complete story about Shakespeare’s world and what his works can tell us about our own world.

All 82 of the Folger’s Shakespeare First Folios will be on permanent display to the public for the first time in the new North Gallery. Rendering: Kieran-Timberlake/OLIN. Courtesy Folger Shakespeare Library

The upcoming 2023/24 season is themed “What’s Your Story?”. It will offer opportunities for visitors of all ages to engage with humanities programs, family programs, exhibition and garden tours, hands-on workshops, classes, printing press demos, programs for teachers and students, curated conversations, gallery talks, experiences, and community gatherings. Finally, performances of the award-winning Folger Theatre and Folger Consort will return to the building, together with the O.B. Hardison Poetry Series and the Folger Book Club.

All this programming is designed around the “What’s Your Story?” theme. “It’s really about drawing the parallels about why we would hang onto these things and what they tell us about ourselves,” Daniels, the Programming Director said. It’s not only about what the Folger has to offer the public, she said. It is also about how the public will use those resources in their lives. She imagines conversations happening in the gardens, as people sit surrounded by plants common to the early modern period in England.

“It’s about being open to the public, and letting our space and resources be used by the people,” Daniels said. “Honestly, I really do think the story of this place is that this is a place for everyone.”

Learn more about the Folger Shakespeare Library and theatre or support the Folger by visiting Folger.edu. Purchase tickets to the Folger Gala at folger.edu/folger-gala. Email questions or comments about the Folger Facilities Master Plan designs to info@folger.edu. u

What’s Going On with the Pennsylvania Ave, SE Traffic Project?

Clarification on the Bike and Bus Lane Conversion

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

Construction on the Pennsylvania Avenue SE Corridor Project is winding down. The changes are intended to provide safer mobility options for all users. But the change has caused a lot of confusion.

We spoke to District Department of Transportation (DDOT) to get an update on the project and get clarification on what that means.

Parking

First things first: yes, you can park in the red bus lane on Pennsylvania Avenue SE. Most of the time, anyway.

DDOT started construction on the Pennsylvania Avenue SE Corridor in fall 2022. The project reduced dedicated traffic lanes on Pennsylvania Avenue between Second Street SE and 13th Street SE to two in either direction. Protected bike lanes were installed along both curbs, separated from ve-

hicular traffic by a 3 feet space occupied by Flexiposts interspersed with concrete barriers.

In between the barriers and the travel lanes, one lane on each side of Pennsylvania Avenue SE is painted red from the 200 to 1200 blocks. That is indeed designated for parking – except during peak traffic hours, when they become bus priority lanes.

During the morning rush hours, the red lane on the north side (westbound, towards the Capitol) becomes a dedicated bus lane from 7:00 a.m. through 9:30 a.m. In the afternoon, the south side or eastbound red lane will be bus priority from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Parking is permitted outside of those hours right now, even as construction is completed. Note: the only exception is if there are paper “emergency, do not park” signs posted on a block undergoing construction.

The Department of Public Works (DPW),

which is responsible for parking enforcement in the District, did not respond to questions about enforcement in the months after construction is complete. But WMATA has announced that the Clear Lanes project will begin pilots in Fall 2023. The project uses automated camera technology to identify illegally parked and stopped vehicles in dedicated bus lanes, transferring info to DDOT for enforcement. Pennsylvania Avenue SE could be a good candidate for the program.

What’s Going on In Front of Frager’s

At the intersection with 12th Street SE near Hype Cafe (1108 Pennsylvania Ave. SE) and Frager’s Hardware (1115 Pennsylvania Ave. SE), the load-

A cyclist tries the new bike lanes Friday, May 26. Photo: E.O’Gorek/CCN

ing zone was reduced in length and moved nearer to the intersection.

Paid parking is now permitted in front to these businesses – except Mondays to Fridays from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. during the afternoon rush hour, when it becomes a bus lane for two and a half hours. A parking spot was lost on the block when the metro stop was moved from the west side of E Street to the east side of 11th Street; however, a spot was gained near 12th Street SE due to the shrinkage of the loading zone.

A total of 30 parking spaces were lost along the mile that was redesigned, mostly where DDOT updated the street to re ect updated standards for loading zones and approaches to intersections. Loading zones are now the standard 40-foot length and at the end of blocks to allow for ‘head-in/back-in loading’ as opposed to mid-block parallel parking. Parking is 25 feet from the stop line.

A Limbo Period

In May 2022, DDOT said they hoped to be nished all the work on the Pennsylvania Avenue SE project by this spring. That has been pushed back to mid-June, said project manager Greg Matlesky. Bike lanes remain closed as contractors work to add the concrete wheel stops that separate the bike lane from the bus lane along the avenue. Installation has been held up due to issues with contractor machinery, he said.

DDOT is also working to ensure all signage is updated for the length of the project. As of May 23, signage updates are only complete for about three or four blocks in either direction.

Matlesky said he is aware that the inconsistent signage is currently causing confusion, but said he feels con dent that it will be clear once the update is complete. Still, DDOT will monitor the situation, he said. If there’s confusion, DDOT might add additional signage.

The agency would also consider adding roadway paint if needed, Matlesky said, referencing the bus lanes on Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE where this was done. For instance, “BUS LANE PM ONLY” is painted there in the southbound lane to indicate no parking during the afternoon rush hour. However,

roadway paint is not currently part of the Pennsylvania Avenue plan, as DDOT remains condent that people will understand once everything is complete.

Bus Stop Movement

The concrete blocks and signs aren’t the only things left to get into place. The corridor plan calls for some bus stops to be relocated along Pennsylvania Avenue. Two are supposed to be removed completely, both from the 400 block of Seward Square SE, in order to balance bus stop spacing for transit e ciency. Before the redesign, there were three bus stops within that two-block area.

For safety reasons, some bus stops are being relocated across streets, so that buses will stop on the far sides of intersections. But not all of the bus stops are relocated as of late May. DDOT does not move bus stops; that falls under the jurisdiction of WMATA, which must coordinate construction staging with contractors doing other work along the street. With work still incomplete along parts of the corridor, WMATA has to be able to access both the stop to be moved and the area where it is to be relocated. (WMATA did not respond to a request for comment in time for publication).

The Future: Phase II

This is only Phase I of the Pennsylvania Avenue Southeast Corridor Project. The project is intended to remake mobility from the Capitol Building all the way to the Anacostia River. However, it is broken into two phases in coordination with the team working on the renovation of the Pennsylvania and Potomac Avenue intersection. Funding for the project was moved up and construction is expected to begin sometime in 2024.

Coordination is ongoing between DDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and in cooperation with the National Park Service (NPS). The federal agencies are in charge of the intersection project. Once the intersection is complete DDOT will implement Phase II, continuing Pennsylvania Ave. corridor improvements to Barney Circle.

Get details and contact the project team at www.pennavese.com

The Tidal Basin in Yesteryear

DC’s Public Rec Center

by William Zeisel

With spring’s warmth come the tourist crowds to admire the Tidal Basin’s iconic monuments and cherry blossoms. Nothing says Washington like a photo of Je erson’s neoclassical memorial sitting majestically on the basin’s low shore, framed by a wreath of cherry blossoms.

It’s easy to imagine that such an inspiring tableau could not have been an accident. Someone must have imagined it, maybe Pierre L’Enfant himself when he drew up the plan of Washington City, back in the 1790s.

In fact, the Tidal Basin appeared generations later, created for mundane, utilitarian reasons long before the advent of the cherry trees in 1912 or the Jefferson Memorial in 1943. Quickly evolving from an oversized puddle into DC’s public recreation center, it buzzed with activity, spring through winter, often

expressing life’s lighter side. But the District’s schizoid nature, both local and national, edged much of the fun aside in favor of a di erent vision.

Origins

The basin was created as an aid to river navigation. Before anyone dreamed of planting cherry trees in Southwest DC, Washingtonians saw the need for a bigger and deeper harbor for the steamboats and sloops that were supplying their city with necessities like oysters, rewood and politicians. Steamboats serving Washington’s waterfront in Southwest had to negotiate the Potomac’s Washington Channel, narrow and prone to silting up. Simply getting in and out of the harbor demanded a succession of little jigs and jags forward and backward, then out of a mud bank.

At the request of Congress, Army engineers devised a plan to deepen and widen the channel and use the dredged mud to create made land that would separate the harbor channel from the Potomac’s broad stream. The corps began this process in 1882, under the direction of Col. Peter Hains, and largely nished it by 1890s. The resulting East Potomac Park is visible from any vantage point along The Wharf.

But a problem remained. What would prevent the dredged channel from lling up with muck again?

The engineers had a x. Their plan included extending the made land northward, past 14th Street SW, creating West Potomac Park, and then looping it around to the river’s shore above 17th Street to enclose a big lagoon, the Tidal Basin. Why tidal? Because, in a bit of inspired green engineering the basin used the power of the river’s daily tides to ush out the Washington Channel’s silt.

The Potomac’s waters connect with the Atlantic Ocean via Chesapeake Bay, some 100 miles away, and rise and fall twice daily (more or less), about four feet up and down (approximately). The Army’s plan was to cut two openings into the Tidal Basin and t them with gates to regulate the ow.

When the river rose, the waters would ll the basin through inward-swinging gates under today’s Ohio Drive. After the tide peaked

Tide gates under Ohio Drive, ca. 1930. These gates let Potomac River water into the Tidal Basin. Photo: Library of Congress

Blue zone indicating new land of West and East Potomac Park. Credit: Map from Library of Congress. Hains, Peter C, J. E Hilgard, and U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey. Proposed improvement of James Creek Canal. [Washington, D.C.: United States Coast and Geodetic Survey, 1887] Map.

and began falling, the out ow would push the doors shut, holding the water above the river’s level. As the river neared its low-tide level, the pressure di erential would force open another gate located opposite the Washington Channel. The surge of impounded water would carry silt down the Washington Channel and out past Hains Point at the tip of East Potomac Park.

Time for a Swim

The next issue was what to do with all that made land. Cost-conscious o cials suggested selling it to private developers to pay for the expense of dredging and reclamation. Most DC residents wanted to devote it to public use. But exactly what use?

Baseball elds, said some. A beautiful park adorned with monuments to the Founding Fathers, declared local patriots. A truck garden for growing vegetables, suggested President Grover Cleveland.

A swimming hole, said W.X. Stevens, a patent lawyer and ardent swimmer, who considered the made land ideal as a bathing beach. Until then, Washingtonians endured the hot summer days by leaving town, if they could a ord it, or jumping into a local creek or the Potomac. Boys of all ages, regarding bathing suits as an unnecessary expense, skinnydipped in fairly public settings. They also drowned in signi cant numbers.

At Stevens’ urging, the District government

and Congress allocated part of the made land for a public bathing beach. With the blessing of the Secretary of War, who had authority over the basin, the beach opened in 1891 ‒ swimsuits mandatory ‒ on land that would later be home to the Je erson Memorial.

The facility’s 18-acre expanse o ered a sandy beach and separate but equal white and “colored” bath houses and sta . Stevens insisted that the beach be free and open to everyone, and the District government committed to that policy for the next three decades. The District usually provided a small appropriation to pay lifeguards, sta and also the superintendent, who was Mr. Stevens until he resigned in 1908.

The beach began as a male-only enterprise, but females were admitted within a few years and soon had designated time slots, usually Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings. In later decades mixed bathing became the norm.

Despite occasional grumblings by health ofcials that sewage contaminating Potomac’s water was causing infections among swimmers, the beach immediately became the District’s most popular summertime recreational venue. It had to relocate to nearby venues a couple of times, owing to construction issues, but remained free and racially separate but equal.

Cramped facilities at the alternative beach sites led to calls for returning the amenity –which

many residents regarded as a summer necessity ‒to the Tidal Basin. Congress, which functioned as Washington’s town council, funded the establishment of a large beach on the southeast side of the basin. When it opened in 1918, the new beach admitted only white patrons. At the urging of African American residents and the DC government, Congress appropriated funds in 1924 to construct a “colored” bathing beach on the Tidal Basin, opposite the white beach.

Skaters Betty Baker and Ann Kittleson on the Tidal Basin ice, January 1920. Photo: Library of Congress

Learning to swim in the Tidal Basin, ca. 1920. George H. Corson is teaching the attentive class. The bath house is at the upper right, and behind it is the Bureau of Engraving and Printing building. Photo: Library of Congress

Swan boat of sightseers admiring the cherry trees and the unfinished Jefferson Memorial, May 1941. Photo: Library of Congress

Before the African American residents could celebrate their win, a potent opposition began to lobby Congress to stop the beach. According to a contemporary newspaper account, “Interests concerned in the preservation of the park beauties of the capital” were asking that the basin be freed of “disfigurements,” meaning frivolities like swimming and picnics at the beach. Opponents were especially concerned that an additional beach would require sacrificing some of the Japanese cherry trees lining the basin. The trees were gifts from Japan and symbolized the friendship between the two nations. George Washington himself would not have been allowed to put an ax to those Asian beauties.

Objections to the “colored” beach were likely reinforced by nationwide race prejudices that exploded in the 1920s with bloody riots in Tulsa and elsewhere. Congress in 1925 decided to eliminate both bathing beaches, even though construction had begun on the “colored” one. A congressionally mandated search for alternative beach sites produced nothing useful. Back to skinny-dipping.

Praise the Lord and Pass the Fish Bait

Alongside the bathers there was a more solemn kind of water immersion. Local churches, notably Afri-

can American congregations, saw the protected waters of the basin as ideal for baptism ceremonies, even in the cooler months. On a chill April morning in 1909, a newspaper reporter observed nine white-robed women and girls and two black-robed boys being baptized at the “colored” bathing beach. They entered the basin’s frigid waters “without flinching.” Even braver were members of the Union Christian Baptist Church who in 1917 were baptized at the beach in January. A warmer and far larger ceremony in July 1912 saw more than 250 baptized.

Reference to a biblical parable about loaves and fishes may be a good way to introduce how DC residents saw the Tidal Basin as their local fishing hole, providing food for the body and soul. The basin offered habitat for all kinds of fish, large and small, and all varieties of people, from civil servants and professionals to boys and loungers. “I've been here every day since the fish started biting,” remarked an African American clergyman in March 1914. “It's the only recreation I get, and the outings give me plenty of fine fish and better prepare me for preaching.”

Anglers told fabulous stories about basin fishing. In June 1905 one of them landed a catfish that bystanders claimed was four feet long and weighed about a hundred pounds. In March 1912 the big event was the catch of 11 largemouth black bass, one of the nation’s premier gamefish. The U.S Bureau of Fisheries estimated in 1926 that the basin held 300,000 largemouth bass, nearly one fish for every DC resident.

Another prized gamefish, the rock or striped bass, made a splash in October 1959, when a Northwest DC resident casting into the basin landed a 6-pounder and then a 5-pounder. In March 1971, the basin gave up two stripers weighing more than

10 pounds each. As recently as 1983 the basin produced an even larger fish when a local business owner reeled in a carp weighing 57 pounds, 13 ounces, which the Washington Post’s fishing editor declared was a potential world-record.

When winter beckoned and the weather got too cold for fishing, the skaters appeared. East Coast winters were colder a century ago, and rivers like the Potomac would freeze over. Each December the Tidal Basin would become the de facto municipal skating rink, with ice up to six inches thick. Press accounts speak of hundreds of skaters at a time. One evening in January 1903, when nearly a thousand skaters were on the ice, 15 of them fell through a thin spot and three of them, a woman and two men in their 20s and 30s, drowned.

Apotheosis

Today’s Tidal Basin, now under the authority of the National Park Service, has lost many of its old-time amenities and amusements like baptizing, swimming and skating. The advocates of the early 1900s, who campaigned to make DC a capital worthy of a great nation even at the expense of local preferences, had won. The District’s profile became defined by massive neoclassical buildings and monuments that referenced an imagined affiliation with great civilizations of the past. A National Park Service website calls the Jefferson Memorial “A Pantheon among the Cherry Blossoms.”

But like those empires of old, the basin has shaky foundations. The massive seawall protecting its shoreline has footings resting on ‒ mud. Decades-long subsidence allowing water to encroach on the land has led the Park Service to propose a $120 million rebuild that will anchor the wall in bedrock. Fortunately for the devotees who come from far and wide to enjoy an inspiring, unsullied beauty, the basin’s checkered history and current problems are obscured by the cherry blossoms and the monuments.

Southwest resident William Zeisel is a partner in QED Associates LLC, a consulting firm that has conducted extensive research on the history of the DC area. He is co-author of the official history of the University of the District of Columbia. u

Overcoated anglers at the Tidal Basin, probably 1930s. The early spring run of white perch may have enticed them to try their luck. Photo: Library of Congress

Our River, The Anacostia

Mussels Put to Work to Help Restore the Anacostia

by Bill Matuzeski

As we continue to make progress in the improvement of the Anacostia, we begin to discover elements of nature that can help us along. One of the most interesting is the role that can be played by fresh water mussels, which can mitigate chemicals and poisons that otherwise can wipe out fish and plants in the water.

We are making great progress in eliminating 98% of sewage overflows into the River and cutting way back on upstream contaminants. That means that the mussels can better do their thing to protect the fish and plants.

Under the leadership of the Anacostia Watershed Society (AWS) and its staff and volunteers, there are three areas in the District where mussels are being placed to help purify water, and about seven more areas upstream. All of these provide safe and supportive places for the mussels to do their work and reproduce. At the same time, AWS continues to work with the City and with the Harrison Lake National Fish Hatchery in Virginia to assure the supply of mussels will continue to grow.

The three places the mussels are released in the District are the Kenilworth Aquatic Garden in Anacostia; Kingman Lake above Benning Road surrounded by the Langston Golf Course; and Buzzard Point by Fort McNair. These places have calm waters and a quantity of fish that give the mussel larva

something to hold onto.

Another element that helps is that fresh water mussels do not taste at all good to other critters including humans, which means they are not being harvested and devoured. In addition to filtering from the water the bacteria that destroy fish and plants, the mussels grow to where they can trap and remove micro-plastics and the sediments floating in the water.

If you would like to learn more about this effort to re-engage nature in the clean-up of the Anacostia, or if you would like to volunteer to help in the actual management of the growth and distribution of the mussels to maximize the benefit to the River, you should contact the folks at Anacostia Watershed Society on ecastelli2@anacostiws.org., or (301-699-6204 x103) They would love to have your help!

Jorge Bogantes Montero AWS with mussel cage

Mussel to be placed in Aquatic Garden pond.

Students with mussels to add from Upper Marlboro HS Dr. Wise.

Mussel to be placed in Aquatic Garden pond

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 the Friends of the National Arboretum and on Citizen Advisory Committees for the Anacostia and the Chesapeake. u

The Capitol Hill Community Achievement Awards 2023

by Melissa Ashabranner,

Photos

by Liz O’Gorek

On May 23 at a festive garden party held at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church (301 A St. SE), the Capitol Hill Community Foundation recognized four individuals who have made significant contributions to our neighborhood in a variety of ways. This year political commentator Bill Press and long-time neighborhood supporters Maureen Shea and Ken Allen were honored with Community Achievement Awards. James Perry, director of the Eastern High School Marching Band was awarded the Steve Cymrot Spark Award for his inspiring lead-

LEFT: Assembled guests enjoy music by the Eastern HS Blue and White Marching Machine.

BELOW: StuartHobson music director Robert “BJ” Simmons, Eliot-Hine music director Sandra Jean and Eastern High vocal director Tedrick Bonds accept the John Franzen Award for the Arts.

Maureen Shea and Ken Allen, CHCF Achievement Award winners

Nicky Cymrot, president of the Capitol Hill Community Foundation, welcomes guests at the awards ceremony.

Over 200 people gathered in the St. Mark's Episcopal Church nave to celerate the 2023 Achievement Award winners

James Perry, winner of the Steve Cymrot Spark Award, conducts the Eastern High School Marching Band in a thrilling performance at the awards ceremony

ership and commitment to the students of the band.

Also presented at the event were the annual Arnold F. Keller Award of $25,000 to two elementary school literacy programs, Reach Incorporated and Everybody Wins DC. The John Franzén Award for the Arts was awarded to the music education programs at Stuart-Hobson and ElliotHine Middle Schools and Eastern High School.

The annual event is a fundraiser for the Foundation which, since its founding in 1989, has given more than $13 million to support activities, schools and organizations that bene t life on Capitol Hill. For more information on the Foundation and how you can donate, go to capitolhillcommunityfoundation.org

ARTIST REGISTRATION DEADLINE: AUGUST 6

The Art Walk, co-sponsored with the Capitol Hill Art League, is an opportunity for artists and artisans with a Capitol Hill connection to share their work with the public in micro-galleries at homes or studios, Free to both artists and visitors. Artists: Learn how to participate at http://www.chrs. org/art-walk-2023, The event will take place September 9 & 10.

Jordi Hutchinson (left) of Everybody Wins DC and Jennifer Cartland of Reach Inc. (right) accept the shared $25,000 Arnold F. Keller grant. Photo: E. O’Gorek.

Presenters Alex Mills and Stephanie Deutsch with Achievement Award winner Bill Press.

2023 MOTHER’S DAY HOUSE & GARDEN TOUR

Flight Lounge Sparks Concerns

ANC 6A REPORT

by Sarah Payne

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC 6A) met via Zoom on May 11. Commissioners Keya Chatterjee (6A01, vice chair), Mike Velasquez (6A02), Roberta Shapiro (6A03), Amber Gove (6A04, chair), Robb Dooling (6A06) and Steve Moilanen (6A07) were present. Commissioner Laura Gentile (6A05) was absent.

The nightclub Flight Lounge has operated out of the premises of KitchenCray, 1301 H St. NE, since January 2023, stated Alcohol Beverage Licensing Committee (ABLC) member Erin Blumenthal. It opened, she continued, “without any community input, ANC consideration or license.”

Neighbors have been “very supportive and welcoming of restaurants who improve the neighborhood’s character and the quality of our life,” Blumenthal said. However, the unauthorized nightclub has been an unwelcome addition to the corridor, causing signi cant disruption to residential streets nearby, she said.

“The immediate negative impact on the community was apparent,” Blumenthal said, citing upticks in noise, public intoxication, parking issues and loitering across the area. She also cited infractions of the community agreement associated with the establishment’s existing restaurant license.

In April, KitchenCray representative Sudon Williams appeared before the ABLC to request support to change the establishment’s liquor license from a restaurant to a tavern license on a stipulated basis to eliminate the requirement to serve food. The change in license would cover the entire building. They also have requested an entertainment endorsement.

KitchenCray subsequently withdrew its request for support. The owners are scheduled to appear at the ABLC’s May meeting.

Commissioner

Dooling expressed his disappointment in the establishment’s alleged violations. “I especially appreciate how mindful folks have been about how they want to support a nightlife district making sure that we can balance that with livability, crime and a business that is transparent,” Dooling said.

Echoing Dooling, Commissioner Velasquez said, “I know everybody on both sides are acting in good faith and really want to ensure that there is good communication and that we can resolve these issues. I know that KitchenCray has taken ownership of the missteps that they have made, and I’m appreciative of the community engagement.”

The commission took no vote on the matter.

Other Matters

District Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE), Associate Director in the Energy Adminis-

tration David Epley outlined the agency’s initiative aimed at eliminating the use of natural gas in the District. Vice Chair Chatterjee pointed to the unreliability of gas in her single member district. Her constituents have su ered with inoperable gas appliances for months at a time, she said.

The commission voted unanimously to:

• support the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) four Notices of Intent (NOI) to reduce the speed limit from 25 to 20 mph and request it to provide an accounting of any roads excluded from the changes;

• support DDOT’s Eighth Street NE Bus Priority Project, aimed at improving bus reliability and e ciency along the corridor and enhancing cyclist and pedestrian safety;

• support the renewal of the parklet permit for Granville Moore, 1238 H St. NE, and to request that the ANC be given 30-days’ notice to review such requests in future;

• support the renewal of the parklet permit for The Queen Vic, 1206 H St. NE, and to request that the ANC be given 30-days’ notice to review such requests in the future;

• support to the Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) for a special exception from the lot occupancy requirements to construct a twostory rear addition to an existing, attached, two-story with cellar, principal dwelling unit at 424 10th Street NE with the caveat that the developers make best e orts to obtain letters of support from neighbors;

• support to the BZA for a special exception from the building height requirements to construct a third story addition to an exist-

ing, attached, two-story with cellar flat at 1112 8th Street NE in the RF-1 zone;

• r equest an explanation from the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) about the lack of programming at the Sherwood Recreation Center, 640 10th St. NE;

• write to Ward 6 Council member Charles Allen (D) reaffirming support for extending the DC Streetcar to the Benning Road Metro Station.

The next meeting of ANC 6A is at 7 p.m. June 8 via Zoom. For more details, visit anc6a.org.

DLCP Presentation Generates Disappointment

ANC 6B REPORT

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

Appearing at the May 9 online meeting of Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6B were the following: Frank Avery (6B01, Treasurer); Jerry Sroufe (6B02); David Sobelsohn (6B03, Secretary); Frank D’Andrea (6B04); Kasie Durkit (6B05, Parliamentarian); Chander Jayaraman (6B06, Vice Chair); Vince Mareino (6B07); Edward Ryder (6B08, Chair); Matt LaFortune (6B09).

Afew commissioners expressed some disappointment with a presentation by DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) Interim Director Shirley Kwan-Hui. Kwan-Hui spoke largely about the city’s overall budget and economic prospects. However, commissioners said that given the agency was only created Oct. 1, 2022, they wanted to hear specifically about DLCP’s budget and activities.

Commissioner Vincent Marieno asked if DLCP has published any information on the economic impact of licensing. He wanted to know if DLCP had investigated whether licensure requirements are acting as barriers to entry for certain professions. Kwan-Hui said the agency is only six months old and has not yet done analysis of this kind. However, she said surveys conducted as part of Mayor Muriel Bowser’s “comeback plan” looked at responses on that subject; DLCP is using these in part to ensure there is less disparity in access and that returning citizens have access.

Kwan-Hui added that DLCP has partnered with the Office of the Chief Technology Officer (OCTO) to make a licensing portal. That system is currently in beta, but will be a one-stop place to assess licensing requirements and submit applications for all professions and businesses. Mareino said the old portal favored people with a college education and English as a first language, and was optimistic about the new portal.

Secretary

David Sobelsohn

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

ALL ARE WELCOME

The Next meeting is 2nd Thursday, June 8, 7:00 p.m.

Transportation & Public Space Committee meeting

Tuesday, June 20, 7:00 p.m. (after Juneteenth holiday)

Virtual Meeting via Zoom

Economic Development and Zoning Committee meeting

3rd Wednesday, June 21, 7:00 p.m.

Virtual Meeting via Zoom

Community Outreach Committee meeting

4th Monday, June 26, 7:00 p.m.

Virtual Meeting via Zoom

Alcohol Beverage Licensing Committee meeting

4th Tuesday, June 27, 7:00 p.m.

Virtual Meeting via Zoom

Call in information will be posted under Community Calendar at anc6a.org 24 hours prior to the meeting.

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.

YOUR COMMISSIONERS ELECTED TO SERVE YOU

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

Chairperson

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

Vice Chair

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

Treasurer or 202-630-1632

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

Secretary

Sirraj Hasan Eastland Gardens/ 7d01@anc.dc.gov

Commissioner Kenilworth – 7D01

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

Commissioner-Elect

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

Commissioner or 202-427-2068

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

Commissioner or 202-455-6238

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

Commissioner

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

Instructions for accessing the meeting via Zoom

Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6C

P.O. Box 77876 • Washington, D.C. 20013-7787 www.anc6c.org

Next meeting Wednesday, June 14, 2023. Information will be posted on the ANC 6C website.

ANC 6C COMMISSIONERS ANC 6C COMMITTEES

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

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

asked a question about the overall District budget, asking Hui if the $10 million allocated in the budget towards the Southeast Library Modernization Project included interim service funding. The DLCP Director said she did not have the answer but promised to get back to him prior to the council vote, scheduled for the following day.

They also expressed concern with public property being reassigned to private use. Committee members stressed that more details would need to be provided at the June meeting of the full commission, including responses to issues raised by residents and the committee. They also expressed a desire for a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA).

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

Commissioner Matt LaFortune suggested that the director impress the importance of a permanent appointment to the Mayor. LaFortune pointed out that, according to DC Statute, if the Mayor fails to nominate a person within 180 days of the establishment of the subordinate agency vacancy or the date of vacancy, no District funds may be expended to compensate any person serving in the interim position. Kwan-Hui has been Interim Director for DLCP since the agency came into being on Oct 1, 2022 and has therefore exceeded that term. Kwan-Hui thanked LaFortune for his comments.

Conservative Institute Wants to Privatize Alley behind 200 Block of Penn

Commissioners announced that representatives for the Conservative Partnership Institute (CPI) will appear at the June 13 meeting of ANC 6B. CPI has purchased several buildings on the 200 block of Pennsylvania Avenue SE and is applying to privatize the alley behind the properties, which include the former Capitol Lounge, and call it “Lincoln Court.” Representatives told the May 4th meeting of the ANC Planning and Zoning Committee that privatization would allow for rear additions to some of the buildings and a patio in the center.

At that meeting, committee members brought up issues with egress.

At the meeting of the full ANC, Commissioners said there was a long road to go before the CPI plan could be become a reality. The ANC will first officially weigh in and then the proposal needs to be approved by DC Council as it involves a private taking of public property.

Commissioner Sobelsohn suggested that he connect ANC 6B with an area CBA expert, an idea that was welcomed.

Parking on Pennsylvania Avenue SE

Commissioners said that parking is allowed in the new red bus lanes on Pennsylvania Avenue SE outside of rush hour where construction is complete. If there are no paper “no parking” signs posted, motorists can park outside of rush hour. In the morning that means no parking westbound from 7:00 a.m. through 9:30 a.m., and in afternoon parking is not permitted in the eastbound bus lane from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Commissioners ask that if you are hearing otherwise, even from the Department of Public Works (DPW), which writes traffic citations in the District, let your ANC Commissioner know.

Other Matters and ANC Voted to

• Pr otest an application for a Class “C” Restaurant alcohol license for I Egg You (517 Eighth St. SE), the new break-

fast concept from the founders of CHIKO, in pursuit of a Settlement Agreement (SA). The protest cites concerns with trash disposal and rodent control on the property.

• Support concepts for an Historic Preservation Application (HPA) for a third floor and roof deck to an existing two-story rowhouse at 235 12th St. SE. Plans also call for the addition of a second story or accessory dwelling unit to an existing garage structure fronting onto Gessford Court SE. One resident opposed the application, saying it was incompatible with the street, but commissioners said they were unconvinced by the argument.

• Defer consideration until June 13 of a request to amend the existing SA for National Democratic Club (30 Ivey St. SE) to increase the hours of operation and sales, service and consumption of alcohol. The delay came as residents said they had learned of the plans the prior day and wanted to discuss concerns with noise and hours of closing. Manager Zac Ho man said that he had gone door-to-door on the surrounding streets, apologizing to those he had not met. He said that the club wanted to allow for weekend services and for events such as weddings.

Current hours are M-F, 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Requested hours are Sunday to Thurs. 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. and Fri.-Sat., 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m.

The Birdcage

6/6/23 – Tue. Sunset

Marie Reed School

Adams Morgan Movie Night

The Devil Wears Prada

6/7/23 – Wed. 8:35 p.m.

Alethia Tanner Park

CiNoMatic

Mission Impossible

6/8/23 – Thu. 7:30 p.m.

Franklin Park

CAN I KICK IT?

Three Nights a Week

6/8/23 – Thu. 9:00 p.m.

NW Quadrant Washington Monument

Films on the Green DC

Ford v Ferrari

6/8/23 – Thu. 7:00 p.m.

Transit Pier

Sunset Cinema at the Wharf

Hugo

6/9/23 – Fri. 8:00 p.m.

The Reach Video Wall

Extraodinary Cinema

Raising Arizona

6/13/23 – Tue. Sunset

Marie Reed School

Adams Morgan Movie Night

The Goonies

6/15/23 – Thu. 7:30 p.m.

Franklin Park CAN

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

The Goonies

6/15/23 – Thu. 7:00 p.m.

Transit Pier

Sunset Cinema at the Wharf

Top Gun Maverick

6/15/23 – Thu. 8:30 p.m.

Mitchell Park

Films in the Field

WIDE SHOE OUTLET

ANC 6B next meets 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 13. See the agenda and information on how to join at anc6b.org

Eighth Street Bus Priority Project

ANC 6C REPORT

by Sarah Payne

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC)

6C met on May 10 via WebEx. Commissioners Christy Kwan (6C01), Leslie Merkle (6C02, secretary), Jay Adelstein (6C03), Mark Eckenwiler (6C04, chair), Commissioner Joel Kelty (6C05, treasurer), Patricia Eguino (6C06) and Tony Goodman (6C07, vice chair) were present.

The DC Dept. of Transportation (DDOT) has issued a Notice of Intent (NOI) regarding its plan to install bus priority lanes on Eighth Street between Florida Avenue and East Capitol Streets NE. The agency’s design includes the addition of bus bulb-outs to allow buses to board while remaining in the travel lane, the implementation of queue jumps to allow buses to move ahead of vehicles at trafc stops and the relocation and rebalancing of some bus stops in order to minimize delays.

The DDOT’s proposal, while aimed to improve bus reliability and e ciency, also includes several safety improvements for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicular tra c.

The project is currently in the nal design stage. Feedback was accepted through May 18. DDOT plans to begin construction in 2023.

Treasurer Kelty in particular raised concerns about the maintenance of the improvements made, particularly of the pavement markings and signage for things like bike lanes, encouraging the ANC to highlight the importance of appropriating funds to maintain these changes.

“My experience has been that a lot of the pavement markings get put down and then

nothing ever happens,” Kelty said. “They’re worn out and they actually create a more dangerous condition because there’s ambiguity about whether they’re still in e ect.” Commissioners voted unanimously to support the project.

Other Matters

The commission voted to:

• support a proposed DDOT Transportation Public Space (TPS) application for landscaping, benches, fencing and sidewalk paving in public space outside the Heritage Foundation building, 214 Massachusetts Ave NE).;

• send a letter to the DDOT Director Everett Lott, Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen (D) and Ward 6 community engagement specialists regarding areas of H Street NE that are in a “serious state of disrepair,” requesting a comprehensive survey to quantify the scope of the problem and a plan to remediate issues;

• support a sidewalk survey proposed by ANC 6A to identify areas within Ward 6 where sidewalks are in need of repair;

• support a Historic Preservation Application (HPA) for alterations and a rear addition to an existing two-story row house at 407 Third St. NE;

• support a Board of Zoning Application (BZA) to modify a previously approved Planned Unit Development (PUD) at 300 M St. NE;

• support the amended PUD application of 1232 Shift Cubed Partners, LLC with map amendment to allow for the construction of a ten-story mixed-use all-a ordable residential building, which includes 96 affordable units as well as a “maker” creative space on the ground oor and o ce space for a nonpro t or for supportive services programming.

ANC 6C will meet next on June 14, at 7 p.m., via WebEx. Learn more about the commission and register to attend the meeting by visiting www.anc6c.org.

DDOT Director Grilled On Traffic Issues

ANC 6D REPORT

by Andrew Lightman

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6D met on May 8 via Zoom. Commissioners Bob Link (6DO1, vice chair), Ronald Collins (6D02, treasurer), Gail Fast (6D03), Andrea Pawley (6D04), Ashton Rohmer (6D05), Bruce Levine (6D06, secretary) and Fredrica (Rikki) Kramer (6D07, chair and Rhonda Hamilton (6D08) were in attendance.

DC Dept. of Transportation Director

Everett Lott visited the commission to present Mayor Muriel Bowser’s FY 2024 budget. After Lott provided a general overview with some speci c references to his agency, Chair Kramer directed his attention to the commission’s own agenda, which included the following objectives:

• Buzzard Point residential access during game days;

• game route changes for the 74 bus;

• expanding the catchment area of DDOT’s Tra c Operations and Parking Plan (TOPP);

• remediation of the Fourth Street SW protected bike lane design;

• the redesign of South Capitol Street;

• Comprehensive street safety in Southwest DC. Chair Kramer began with Buzzard Point. On game days,

she pointed out, there is no street parking. Residents themselves report di culty gaining vehicular access to their buildings and no provision has been made for their visitors. Tra c control ocers are being deployed on game days to facilitate access, Lott stated. DDOT is working on partnering more e ectively with the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) the DC Dept. of Public Works (DPW), which handle curbside and tra c enforcement.

The TOPP’s enforcement footprint, Chair Kramer pointed out, does not cover the entire area impacted by game day tra c. It does not su ciently take into account the congestion issues created by events at The Wharf or Yards Park.

Buzzard Point residents can’t get in and out, stated Commissioner Hamilton. Emergency vehicles have trouble accessing the neighbor.

“Let’s look at Southwest as a whole from the perspective of tra c management,” Vice Chair Link suggested, echoing the chair. He requested DDOT collect data on the TOPP’s e ectiveness to prepare for a 2024 revision, which he hoped would be more collaborative. The TOPP process could be more interactive, Lott admitted, and requires better coordination with enforcement agencies.

Treasurer Collins asked about Protected Bike Lanes (PBLs). Are they federally funded? he asked. They are locally funded, Lott stated.

What is the completion date for the I Street PBL? Commissioner Rohmer followed up. Lott could not provide a rm timeline.

What steps is DDOT taking

to reduce tra c speeds in Southwest? Rohmer queried.

“We are really trying to force individuals to slow down,” Lott said. The agency is focusing on high entry points in the city’s road network. It is planning to deploy over 342 new speed cameras.

Does The District have reciprocity agreements with Maryland and Virginia concerning tra c nes? asked Treasurer Collins. The administration is now working getting such arrangements in place, Lott said.

DDOT does a terrible job consulting with local stakeholders and residents, stated Secretary Levine. The agency needs a more consultative approach that better balances the needs of curbside parking, bike and pedestrian safety and tra c ow. In particular, Levine complained about drivers speeding recklessly near the Fish Market.

DDOT needs to emphasize pedestrian safety particularly with cyclists, Commissioner Hamilton added.

Director Lott promised to follow up with the commission on the issues raised in their discussions.

Other Matters

MPD Captains Justin Roth and Kevin Harding briefed the commission on the public safety report. Property crime is up and violent crime is signi cantly down, they said. In response to a query from Commission Fast about recent robberies of construction workers, there have been no recent incidents, they said.

The commission voted to: • support a Cotton Annex project’s Modification of Consequence for the Cotton Annex project located

at 300 12th St. SW;

• establish an eight-member Special Committee to liaison with Safeway officials, providing community input;

• withdraw its protest against a liquor license for Milk and Honey, 677 Maine Ave. SW, given the successful negotiation of a community agreement with the establishment;

• protest the liquor license for ZOOZ, 633 Maine Ave. SW, in the absence of a cooperative agreement;

• oppose the mayor’s proposal to eliminate the Southwest Circulator.

Treasurer Collins appointed Michael King as his single member district’s representative on the commission’s Alcohol Beverage Licensing Committee.

The commission voted unanimously to request $5,000 in expert assistance from the DC Office of Advisory Neighbor Commissions (OANC).

The money is needed to aid in its applications for reconsideration of Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) for 807 Maine Ave. and 899 Maine Ave. SW. Commissioner Fast, an OANC Program Analyst, voted in support of the measure.

ANC 6D meets at 7 p.m. on the second Monday of every month. The next meeting is June 12, 2023. For more information\, visit www.anc6d.org. u

19th Street Traffic Plan Critiqued

ANC 7D REPORT

by Sarah Payne

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

DDOT plans to reconfigure 19th Street between C Street and Benning Road NE. To increase public safety near schools, the agency is installing a Protected Bike Lane (PBL) and raised pedestrian crossings at D Street and Rosedale. It is relocating parking on the 300 to 600 blocks from the west to the east side of 19th Street and updating parking restrictions in line with its new guidelines to improve

sightlines at crossings. The changes will eliminate four parking spaces.

The commission is overall supportive of the project, stated Commissioner Marc Friend (7D06), and does not want its momentum slowed. However, more community engagement is necessary, he added.

Commissioners asked for the removal of the crossover movement at Gale Street NE. They also requested changes to bike lane positioning to make construction and maintenance easier; the removal of the mid-block speed hump on the 400 block of 19th St NE; and the provision of a protected corner, or other intervention, to separate cyclists and pedestrians from vehicular traffic at the 19th Street and Benning Road NE intersection.

Lastly, the commission requested DDOT schedule a public meeting after the release of the 90 percent plan in June. In particular, they asked the agency to include residents, schools and local businesses in that proceeding.

The commission voted to send a letter to DDOT summarizing their requests.

CRYSP Discusses RFK Future

At their May meeting, commissioners reviewed with the Capitol Riverside Youth Sports Park (CRYSP) potential plans for the empty, unused space in the lots surrounding RFK Stadium, 2400 East Capitol St. NE. In addition to managing The Fields at RFK, CRYSP conducts advocacy and research to expand youth recreation space in the District. The overall RFK site remains under the purview of Events DC.

After a decade of work, the Fields on the RFK Campus have accomplished CRYSP’s initial vision, said Board Member Robert Coomber. After the facilities opening, CRYSP polled residents about their additional recreational interests. In response, the organization created a frisbee golf course in 2021. The organization is now looking for ideas for future projects, with the goal of providing space for seniors and youth to “positively release their energy,” Coomber said.

Commissioner Brett Astmann called the Fields a “total gem.” Echoing his appreciation, Commissioner Siraaj Hasan expressed gratitude for the existing facilities.

Commissioners Ebony Payne and Ashley

Proposed designs for the 19th Street Corridor Project. Image: DDOT NOI 23-64-PSF.

Schapitl expressed interest in involving their constituents in further developments to the campus. They floated the additions of pickleball courts and a dog park.

Coomber welcomed their feedback. CRYSP planned additional outreach to ANC 7D residents, he said.

Hasan raised questions about the timeline of the discussed additions. New developments are dependent on funding and likely “years off.” “We really depend on the kindness of strangers and the generosity of EventsDC,” Coomber responded.

The commission held no vote on the matter.

Other Matters

The ANC voted to:

• send a letter of support for the Marshall Heights Community Development Organization in their search for a Main Streets program grant.

• approve an expenditure to advertise their meetings as part of the fulfillment of their public notice requirements in both the Hill Rag and East of the River newspapers.

The commission has posted a draft of their bylaws to www.7d0761.wixsite.com/ anc7d-1. Further discussion is planned in the June monthly meeting.

ANC 7D meets next on June 13 at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. Learn more about the commission and register to attend the meeting at 7d0761. wixsite.com/anc7d-1.

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

LINDA PETTIE @ 202-276-3172 CELL Main Office @ 202-547-3525 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

Affordable Housing Promises Questioned

ANC 8F REPORT

by Sarah Payne

Advisory Neighborhood Commission 8F (ANC 8F) met on May 23. Commissioners Nic Wilson (8FO1), Rick Murphree (Treasurer, 8F02), Brian Strege (Secretary 8F03), Edward Daniels (Chair, 8F04) Clayton Rosenberg (Vice Chair, 8F05), were in attendance.

The DC Housing Authority (DCHA) has applied to the DC Zoning Commission for a two-year extension to continue to use two vacant parcels of The Capper-Carrollsburg Hope VI Project as Nationals baseball parking lots. The two lots are located between L Street, K Street, Second Place and Third Street SE.

The two parking lots are among three Navy Yard parcels belonging to DCHA that remain undeveloped. The entire Hope VI Project was rezoned using a Planned Unit Development, which permitted denser, mixed usage. The project remains controversial due to its slow progression and failure to provide housing for displaced public housing residents.

“We obviously need a ordable housing in the neighborhoods, so I think that our act as an agency is to put in a ordable units and residential units and make sure that those families have the chance to return to the neighborhood,” Chair Daniels said.

Commissioners remained skeptical of the renewal. They asked that the lots in question not be solely designated as ballpark parking. Pointing out the current size of Navy Yard housing stock, they questioned why displaced residents could not be accommodated in existing apartments. They asked for DCHA to return to the commis-

ANC 8F discussed a request from the DC Housing Authority for a two year extension of lots for parking in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood in their May meeting.

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

sion in the next year to explain its plan for the parking lots. The commission unanimously voted to support the request for extension with these conditions.

Other Matters

The commission voted to:

• ask DC Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) to provision ofce space for the commission or cover the cost $600 per month cost of its current WeWork space;

• write to DDOT and Pepco about the current lighting outage in The Yards.

• support the Brookfield Properties application to the DC O ce of Zoning (DCOZ) for a ve-year extension of the interim use for Parcels F and Q as parking lots.

• support the installation of a taxi stand at 20 M St. SE that would be designed to accommodate rideshare vehicles as well:

• protest the liquor license application for Any Day Now, 2 I St. SE, since the commission does not yet have a cooperative agreement with the establishment.

ANC 8F generally meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month. The next meeting is scheduled for June 27 at DC Dept. of Transportation Headquarters, 250 M St. SE. For more information, visit anc8f.org.

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

Bulletin Board

DC Outdoor Public Pools Open

DC outdoor public pools are open on the weekends only through Sunday, June 25. Starting Monday, June 26, all outdoor pools will operate on individual summer schedules, six days a week. DPR pools remain open if it rains as long as lifeguards can see the bottom of the pool. Pools close immediately at the first sign of lighting. Francis Pool and East Potomac Pool are closed. The individual pool listing with hours of operation and closed days is at dpr.dc.gov/outdoorpools.

Comedy Festival Call for Submissions

Because They’re Funny’ Comedy Festival seeks to showcase the next BIPOC comedic talent with a call for submissions for the “Breakout Comic of the Year” Competition. Because They’re Funny (BTF), a new comedy festival from the producers of the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) and in partnership with Events DC, is focused on highlighting comedic talent within BIPOC communities. Taking place in DC for the first time this October, BTF is seeking submissions from aspiring comics who will have the opportunity to showcase their talent. The festival will take place Oct. 6 to 8, at The Wharf. BTF will host the “Breakout Comic of the Year” competition, an annual search to discover emerging BIPOC comedians who compete for $25,000 in cash prizes, the opportunity to open for a major headline act, and even a chance to be signed by a Hollywood talent agency. Read more at becausetheyrefunny.com/submissions.

Folger Shakespeare Library Announces Reopening Date

The Folger Shakespeare Library has announced that it is reopening its historic home on Capitol Hill to the public on Friday, November 17, 2023, after a major three-year building renovation that will allow the Folger to share more of its collection and resources than ever before. The transformed Folger will welcome visitors to new and reimagined spaces including new exhibition halls, a learning lab, lush gardens, and expanded amenities such as a café and gift shop. Building renovation details are at folger.edu/visit/our-building-and-grounds/building-renovation.

BELOW: West entry plaza and gardens, Folger Shakespeare Library, opening November17, 2023. Rendering: Kieran Timberlake/OLIN

DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in the District.

DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in the District.

DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in the District.

DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in the District.

DC Open Doors

DC Open Doors

Visit

DC Open Doors

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

DC Open Doors

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

DC Open Doors

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

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

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

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

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

Home Purchase Assistance Program (HPAP)

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

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

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

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

HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down payment and closing cost assistance up to $202,000 combined. DCHFA serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) first-time home buyer program.

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

DC4ME

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

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

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

COVID-19

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

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

COVID-19

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

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

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

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

COVID-19

COVID-19

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

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

Art of Ages: Artists of the DC Waterfront June 9-10

The Waterfront Village will host an art exhibition on June 9 and 10 which features the work of local artists aged 60 and better at Saint Matthew Lutheran Church, 222 M St. SW. Starting with the opening night reception, the hours for the exhibition are 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, June 9, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 10. While there is no cost for the exhibition, the fee for the opening night wine reception is $25. dcwaterfrontvillage.org.

Overbeck lecture: The Last Lincoln Conspirator

The assassination of President Abraham Lincoln at Ford’s Theater on the evening of April 14, 1865, is a well-known and pivotal event in American history. What may be less well known is the local character of part of the story and the fate of John Surratt, the last Lincoln conspirator. On Monday, June 5, 7:30 p.m., writer and historian Andrew Jampoler will explore the Civil War and the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln as well as the connections between the city of Washington and the Lincoln conspirators up to their urgent flight through the Capitol Hill neighborhood and across the Eastern Branch (now Anacostia River). Jampoler is the author of The Last Lincoln Conspirator: John Surratt’s Flight from the Gallows as well as other books on American history. Reservation required. Admission

to the lecture is free, however a reservation is required at hillcenterdc. org/event/overbeck-lecture-june-5/ or 202-549-4172.

Hill Center’s Dragathon ExtravaGAYza!

On Sunday, June 18, 4 to 7 p.m., join Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, for their first outdoor Dragathon Extrava-GAY-za! Cheer for your favorite DC drag performers with two hours of drag excellence, explore the stands of local queer businesses, grab a bite to eat, and of course do it all outside with a cold bevvy (boozy or not). Wine, beer, a specialty cocktail, and other non-alcoholic options will be available for purchase. Tickets are pay-what-youcan, all donations are appreciated. Reservations are not required but appreciated. hillcenterdc.org.

Rock the Dock Concerts at the Wharf

The DC Wharf invites you to free concerts on Transit Pier every Wednesday, 7 to 9 p.m., through Aug. 30. With R&B, Motown, Jazz, Reggae, Go-Go, Country and your favorite pop covers. Here’s the lineup: June 7; Collective Delusion (Rock); June 14, Feel Free (Reggae); June 21, The 19th Street Band (Americana Gypsy Rock); June 28, Soulfire (Rock); July 5, Justin Trawick (Americana); July 12, The Experience Band & Show (Funk); July 19, La Unica (Latin); July 26, So Fetch (2000s Pop); Aug. 2, Driven to Clarity (Rock/Funk/Soul); Aug. 9, Jimi Smooth & HitTime (R&B/Soul); Aug. 16, David Thong Band (Pop Favorites); Aug. 23, Nkula (Reggae); and Aug. 30, The JoGo Project (Go-go). Wharfdc.com.

Carpe Librum Book Sales at Canal Park

Join Carpe Librum in the middle block of Canal Park, 200 M St. SE, for an outdoor pop-up, nonprofit used-book sale. Browse through thousands of books all under $6 in a beautiful setting. Remaining sales are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays, June 10 and July 8, Aug. 12, Sept. 9, Oct. 14, Nov. 11 and Dec. 9. Book sales are weather-dependent. capitolriverfront.org/canal-park.

Painting by Tom Walsh

Listen Live at the Lincoln

On most Saturday nights from June 10 to Sept. 16, at 8 p.m., enjoy the US Army Band Pershing’s Own at their new summer performance venue—the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. Here are the dates: June 10, July 15, 22, and 29; Aug. 5 and 12; and Sept. 16. Bring a chair or blanket and listen to this free concert as the sun sets and the monuments’ glow appears. No registration required but if you register you’ll receive inclement weather information and other updates. usarmyband.com/concert-series/listen-live-at-the-lincoln.

CHRS and CHAL Call to Artists

The Capitol Hill Restoration Society and the Capitol Hill Art League are sponsoring an Art Walk on Sept. 9 and 10. The event is an opportunity for artists and artisans with a Capitol Hill connection to share their work with the public, in micro-galleries at their homes or studios. It is free for both artists and visitors. Registration deadline is Aug. 6. Learn how to participate at chrs.org/art-walk-2023.

Artists in the Archives: A Virtual Conversation

ings to receive verbal comments on the SDEIS: In-Person Public Hearing, June 27, 5 to 8 p.m. in the Washington Union Station East Hall; Virtual Public Hearing, June 28, 5 to 7 p.m., to join call 301-715-8592, Meeting ID: 817 4039 4141, Passcode: 368015.

Yayoi Kusama at the Hirshhorn Extended

One with Eternity showcases the Hirshhorn’s permanent collection of works by Kusama, including two of her Infinity Mirror Rooms—her first and one of her most recent—that create a dazzling sensation of never-ending space. These transcendent rooms are exhibited alongside an early painting; sculptures, and photographs of the artist. This exhibition honors Kusama’s distinctive vision of selfobliteration by exploring its development across media while also underscoring the Museum’s mission: to present the most exciting art and ideas of our time. Free but timed-passes are required. hirshhorn.si.edu.

US Marine Band Concerts at Yards Park

Catch the US Marine Band play a one-hour performance on June 8 and 29, July 13, Aug. 4 and 17, 7 p.m., in Yards Park while dining al fresco and enjoying river views. capitolriverfront.org.

Ward Six Spray Parks Open for Summer

All DC DPR spray parks are open daily in summer from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. with each spray park having short hours, 3 to 8 p.m., on a different day. Ward

Six spray parks are Eastern Market Metro Park, 701 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, short hours on Mondays; King-Greenleaf Recreation Center, 201 N St. SW, short hours on Wednesdays; Potomac Avenue Triangle Park, 1216 Potomac Ave. SE, short hours on Thursdays; and Watkins Spray Park, 420 12th St. SE, short hours on Fridays. For the complete city listing, visit dpr.dc.gov/sprayparks.

What is artistic research? What is it like to step into the Folger as a contemporary artist? Join the Folger for a virtual conversation with Folger Institute fellows Alexander D’Agostino (‘22-23) and Mindy Stricke (‘18-19) on how they integrate collections research and creative process. Learn about their strategies, surprising discoveries, and how you too can become a Folger researcher. This virtual, one-hour conversation will be moderated by Abbie Weinberg, Research and Reference Librarian, with welcoming remarks from Patricia Akhimie, incoming Director of the Folger Institute. Free but registration required at folger.edu/whats-on.

Union Station Expansion Seeks Comments

The Federal Railroad Administration invites you to comment on the Washington Union Station Expansion Project Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement (SDEIS). An electronic version of the SDEIS is available for review at wusstationexpansion.com. All comments must be sent on or before July 6. FRA will be hosting two public hear-

Volunteer Master Gardener Needed at Sr. Center

Ward 6 Hayes Sr. Wellness Center, at 500 K St., SE, is looking for a Master Gardener to volunteer to help the seniors start a garden at the center. The area is cleared and ready for help planting it. Contact Greg Meeropol, the center director, at Gregory.meeropol@howard.edu

Community Forklift’s First Fridays Return

Community Forklift’s popular First Fridays have returned. The reuse warehouse will be open late (on June 2, July 7, etc.) and they’ll have local artists and vendors, live music, refreshments, and modern and vintage salvaged materials to enjoy. Community Forklift is at 4671 Tanglewood Dr., Edmonston, MD. communityforklift.org.

DC Fray Summer Sports Registration Opens

DC Fray has expanded their mission beyond sports to include events, travel, and fitness. They want to make fun a lifestyle to help motivate even more people to love what they do and do what they love every single day. Read more and sign up at dcfray.com.

World Ocean Day at Natural History

World Ocean Day is a global celebration of our ocean--and you can celebrate with the National Museum of Natural History. On Thursday, June 8, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., join artists and ocean scientists in NMNH’s Sant Ocean Hall for an exciting series of interactive experiences celebrating our blue planet; from Conversation Stations with real artists and researchers to encounters with life-sized penguin puppets, come explore all the ways art, science, and community action can connect us to our waterways. naturalhistory.si.edu.

NE Library’s Garden Concert

On Sunday, June 18, 2 to 3:30 p.m., enjoy music in the fresh air of the Northeast Library garden, 330 Seventh St. NE. In celebration of Juneteenth join them for the Garden Concert featuring Too Much Talent Band. The concert takes place in the library’s outdoor garden/patio area. In the event of rain, concerts will be held in Meeting Room 1 in the lower level of the library. Refreshments served. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited. dc.library.org/northeast.

Photo: Irvin Calicut, August 25, 2011

Licensed

SE, Suite 102

Name the Redesign of Florida/New York Ave. Intersection

The recon guration of the Florida Avenue/New York Avenue NE intersection, often referred to as the “Virtual Circle” or “Dave Thomas Circle,” is scheduled to begin later this year. In addition to improving safety and navigation for pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers, this project will bring three new public spaces to the area immediately adjacent to the intersection. For more details, visit oridaaveproject.com/ orida-avenew-york-ave-intersection. In advance of the delivery of these new spaces, the NoMa BID is partnering with DDOT and inviting members of the public to suggest one overall name for the trio of new public spaces. Through June 25, the public can submit a name recommendation by completing an online survey at NameThisNoMaSpace.org.

Social Services Information at Rosedale Library

On Wednesdays, June 7, 14, 21 and 28, noon to 2 p.m., come to Rosedale Library, 1701 Gales St. NE, to receive critical information

about di erent resources around DC that can help you and your family thrive. dclibrary.org/ rosedale.

Music in the Meadow at the Arboretum

On Sunday, June 11, 2 to 3 p.m., join Friends of the National Arboretum for a summer afternoon concert with the US Navy Concert Band in the National Arboretum’s Ellipse Meadow. Enjoy a picnic while you listen to music next to the Capitol Columns. Registration is not required for this free event, but please register to let them know you’re coming so you can receive event updates. fona.org.

Signature Theatre Accepting Original Plays

On “Late Skate” Saturdays, June 24, July 29, Aug. 26, Sept. 30 and Oct. 28; skate until 10 p.m. and enjoy the featured DJ. Events last throughout the day and include double dutch, lawn games, job fairs, boat trips and more. Free skate rental (socks required) is available with a government issued ID. You can skate anytime at Anacostia Park Skating Pavilion—the only roller-skating rink in the National Park Service. nps.gov/anac.

Signature Theatre is accepting submissions for original and unpublished full-length plays (no musicals) from local playwrights through June 26, 2023. Playwrights must currently reside in Washington, DC or in the surrounding areas of Virginia and Maryland that constitute the DMV. Only one submission per playwright. Plays that have been professionally

2022 Late Skate. Photo: Kelsey Graczyk

The redesigned intersection will create three new public spaces for the community.

produced or published are not eligible. nterested playwrights must submit a PDF of their play and provide the requested information, including the development history of the play, a synopsis of the play, and a clear and concise cast/character breakdown to bit. ly/SigWorks2024. SigTheatre.org.

Fleeting Moments –Street Photography

Call for Entries

This is an open call for entry for an exhibition in the Athenaeum Gallery, 201 Prince St., Alexandria, VA, Oct. 19 through Nov. 26. There is a $750 prize for ‘best in show’ and a $500 prize for ‘people’s choice.’ The show will feature photographs that capture candid moments, revelatory interpretations, and brilliant re ections of the mundane--commonly referred to as street photography. The entry fee is $30 up to three images with each entry. Deadline is Aug. 22. Read more at artist. callforentry.org/festivals_unique_ info.php?ID=11785.

DC Commission on Arts Seeks Panelists

CAH is actively recruiting panelists to review their grants programs this summer. Panelists are integral to the grantmaking process, providing a critical review, comments, and scores of all applications. Panelists are provided with applications three to four weeks in advance of the panel review, and then convene for a oneday virtual review panel. Panelists are compensated for their time with a $250 gift card. dcarts. dc.gov/page/apply-be-cah-panelist. ◆

Remodeling your house can accomplish two great things – you enjoy the home you want, and it’s worth a lot more.

Home improvement websites and HGTV programs, seemingly centered more on entertainment than fact, often focus on the recovery value of various types of home improvement projects. These home remodeling advice forums typically focus on the dollar value of home improvements rather than the less easily quantified personal and emotional value inherent in a home improvement. Their value relates more to house “flipping” than a properly designed and carefully crafted home remodel. Keep in mind that a home, particularly one located in Metro Washington DC, is an appreciating asset, and wisely

investing in your home adds value within a few short years.

Return on Investment (ROI)

Though homeowners are often concerned about Return On Investment (ROI) in relation to their home remodeling projects, the data is hard to pin down and at best provides ranges for ROI. The websites www.Renofi.com and www.mpamag. com gather their data on a nationwide basis and report that the ROI on the typical home renovation ranges from 70% - 75%, with smaller projects having a quicker and higher return. Surprisingly, mpamag.com reports that a screened-in porch addition stands out at 93% ROI, but remember that ROI varies depending on the state, city, quality of house, and type of remodeling project.

Renofi.com identifies long-term value projects as home additions, finishing the basement, or adding a bedroom or bathroom. The website identifies short-term value projects as kitchen remodels, bathroom remodels, or deck and patio projects. In my experience, a proper kitchen remodel is not a short-term investment. The kitchens we remodel typically last 30 years or more. Ultimately, the homeowner will have to decide what sort of remodeling project will give the best value in terms of quality of life, comfort, and aesthetics, as well as ROI.

I tell homeowners in Metro Washington DC that if they are going to do a highdollar home remodeling project ($250,000 or more), they should plan to stay in their house five to ten more years to let their house appreciate in value. And, with the length of time it takes to plan, design, permit, and construct a quality remodel, it’s important to live in the house and enjoy it. Harder to quantify, but easy to see, is the added dollar value of a professionally designed remodel. When the house looks great, the spaces work as intended, and the

HOMES& GARDENS Good Design Pays

Article and photos

by Bruce Wentworth, AIA

aesthetic decisions are in sync with the home, the added value is significantly more than the 70% that Renofi.com reports.

Recovery Cost

The recovery cost of home improvements needs to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis because of the many variables influencing value. Many websites discuss a range of recovery cost for home improvements from a low of 30% to a high of 100%. Moving the value of your home improvement to the higher end of recovery is influenced by the intangible value of a good design and construction. Essentially, you cannot determine value, but you can influence it through the best design and quality workmanship available.

Remodeling Is A Form Of Conservation

One could also argue that a well-designed home is a form of environmental conservation. A thoughtfully designed building that is functionally and aesthetically pleasing has a greater chance of avoiding demolition. Therefore, the building materials used in its construction will serve for a longer period of time and not be sent to the landfill. In addition, future generations will find the well-designed house more appealing and will happily adapt it to their needs.

A kitchen addition on a Capitol Hill townhouse.

Professionally Designed Home Remodels

Professional design services have proven to be an essential ingredient for protecting and enhancing the value of real estate. Who wants to buy or rent a poorly designed or unattractive house or pay top dollar for it? In a sophisticated and highly educated market like Washington, DC, there are few home buyers who will settle for a badly designed house, especially with current high prices.

The evidence of poor design is everywhere in our city. It is illustrated through ine cient oor plans that do not use available space wisely, interiors that have no ow, and façades that will never make your heart joyful. With the same amount ofnancial investment and thoughtful design, these renovations could have added more value to the property. Homeowners willing to use the services of a design professional have the best chance of success in protecting the value of their home improvements.

“Over-Improving”

Frequently, real estate agents will advise a home buyer to “not over improve.” As an architect, I have found that to be poor advice. Thoughtfully planned and well-designed home improvements always pay o . A beautiful home remodel adds signi cantly more value than a poorly designed one. I recent-

ly heard from clients who had to move from their NW DC home. We had previously remodeled this home and, years earlier, their Capitol Hill home. These clients expressed their thanks for the wonderful home remodeling work that added so much economic value to their homes. Both of their houses sold fast and made money.

When The Work Is Done

When the work is done, homeowners often nd they have a property worth signi cantly more than was originally anticipated. Recovery cost is not an exact science, and the value is in uenced by many variable market conditions, but good design gives you a head start in creating a higher value. If you are planning your next home improvement or remodel, remember that great design can enhance your wallet as well as your sprit. Experience the joy!

Bruce Wentworth, AIA is an architect and founder of Wentworth. Visit www.wentworthstudio.com to learn more about the rm’s residential design/build services. ◆

The addition exterior under construction.

Ten Little Duckies

Once upon a time, just a few weeks ago, a mamma mallard duck decided to find a safe and sheltering place to make her nest. It was time for her to lay some eggs. Her partner, papa mallard, kept close watch on where she went, so he could meet up with her from time to time. Even though they usually make their nests near the river where they live, this time she wanted something a little swankier and maybe a bit safer from predators.

Mama duck may have heard how nice the penthouse patio of Connie Tipton was and decided to check it out. A well-known hostess on Capitol Hill, and the previous owner of the East Capitol Street deer house, Connie had moved to a condo building at the corner of 11th Street and Pennsylvania Ave. SE a few years ago. Happy to be living on one floor, Connie enjoys her outdoor living space with a great view of the Capitol in one direction and the river in another. She has a long grassy yard that meets a tall flower planter that begins the developed patio space. A second tall flower planter on the other side of the patio door makes you forget you are really five floors up from the street.

The flower planters feature a variety of flowers, and many began blooming in April given the early spring this year. As it turns out, the plentiful plantings are just what a mamma duck was looking for. She came in for a landing, and suddenly Connie was hosting a most unusual guest. Connie says she heard some noise coming from the planter one morning and there the mallard mom was. In just a few days, she was proudly sitting on ten duck eggs, and hiding herself in the potted plants.

Article and photographs by Rindy O’Brien

A few days before Mother’s Day, the mallard mamma hatched her ten eggs and enjoyed parading around the patio with her ducklings.

Connie Tipton and April Linton of Duck Watch joined forces to ensure the ducks’ transport to the Anacostia River.

The mallard duck found the penthouse of the condo at 11th Street, SE and Pennsylvania Avenue quite a wonderful place to lay her eggs.

“I would never have dreamed that my patio would be so attractive to ducks,” says Connie, “but I was very excited to be part of her adventure.” Duck eggs take 28 days to hatch. The mother will sit on the nest with the eggs almost all the time but does leave the nest to search for food. Usually, a duck will lay between three and twelve eggs.

Connie said that if the duck got a little scared, it would y up out of the planter and seek some space on the grassy part of the roof.

“I had two di erent events and parties on my patio during this time, and she would quietly sit in her nest protecting her eggs,” Connie said. Mallards often like to nd planters that have low plants or shrubs, and like when people are around, because they scare o predators. Predators for this mama duck could be crows or hawks and raptors that are often seen in the Capitol Hill neighborhood.

Duck Watch to the Rescue

As Connie waited for the big day to happen, she began researching local wildlife groups that might help her monitor the nest and help the mama duck and her babies back to the river. As it turns out, a non-pro t organization, City Wildlife, has organized a program named, Duck Watch, that “educates residents and building managers as to how they can help Maillard families and as soon as the ducklings hatch, bring the mom and ducks to water.”

April Linton is the City Wildlife Duck Watch Coordinator for City Wildlife and has been volunteering to help ducks for many years, as have many of the other trained volunteers in the program. “I started by seeing a duck nesting outside where I worked near Union Station. Wellmeaning but not too helpful people would leave cupcakes, take-out food for the duck, and I knew that wasn’t good, so I started removing the o erings, and in the process met the City Wildlife sta ,” says April.

She met with Connie and helped put up some barriers as the hatching day came nearer. The plan was to cover any openings that the ducks might fall into and limit the area that the mamma duck and little ones could explore. “Connie’s patio was a perfect spot for the mallard, and her patio furniture provided places the ducks could get under and out of the eye of predators,” April noted.

Interior Renovation and Space Planning

Whether

The ten eggs were laid in a flower planter that had a great variety of flowers so the mamma could hide her eggs from potential predators

Law Offices Of James M Loots, PC

In 2022, City Wildlife

Duck Watch had 93 waterfowl nests that they monitored—91 Mallard ducks and two Canadian Geese. In coordination with D.C. Animal Care and Control, Duck Watch volunteers carried out 28 escorts to water and 44 rescues that required the volunteers to capture ducks trapped in courtyards or on roofs and balconies. All in all, Duck Watch helped 551 urban ducklings and goslings get to water with their parents.

Ten Ducklings are Hatched

Right on schedule, on the 28th day, the ducklings started hatching. About half the eggs had hatched when April stopped by to consult with Connie and make plans for the next day escort of ducks to the Anacostia River. April said that by the next morning all the eggs would be hatched and then the mamma and the ducklings would y down or drop down to the patio and begin to test out their legs and begin to look for water. It is then that the Duck Watch volunteers come to provide an escort to the river.

Sure enough by noon, the 11 ducks were exploring the patio, and enjoying splashing around in some small water containers. Connie had left the operation in Duck Watch’s capable hands, as she had a plane to catch to be out of town for the weekend. Two volunteers with a buttery type net scooped up the 10 ducklings and had them placed in a crate, like what cats are transported in. The real trick, noted April, is capturing the mom.

The plan was to lure her into the apartment where she saw the crate with her ducks.

But if she spooked, and they often do, she would start apping her wings and ying. Everyone held their breath as the volunteer snatched the mom up as she entered the door. The lovely glassware in Connie’s apartment was saved.

The volunteers left with their new charges, along with another duck mom and four ducklings they had rescued at Gallaudet hours earlier in the day. O to the Anacostia River to be freed, and hopefully reunited with the father ducks.

Washington DC is ranked third in largest cities for wildlife by the National Wildlife Federation. A third of the city area is parkland, and the special e orts to protect and preserve our land and rivers has helped restore the endangered bald eagles and is bringing back osprey to the Anacostia River. It is from the e orts of people like Connie and April of Duck Watch that DC wildlife can thrive.

To learn more, go to https://citywildlife.org/programs/duckwatch/

Rindy O’Brien was honored to be present for the duckling’s day. To contact her, rindyobrien@gmail.com ◆

The ducklings start walking hours after being hatched, sticking to their mother for instructions.

•

G G ROOFING

•

The Capitol Hill Garden Club presents Dear Garden Problem Lady,

by Wendy Blair

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•

•

The Garden website from which I ordered a “Comtesse de Bouchaud” pink Clematis in early May has just announced a delivery delay. The potted plant won’t arrive until the last week of May. The trellis is ready, but now I worry -- is early June too late to plant it for the 2023 season?

You may recall that Clematis varieties are classified into three groups according to blooming time and pruning rules. Group 1 (spring bloomers), Group 2 (repeat bloomers), and Group 3 (summer or fall bloomers) – into which, like many Clematises with large flowers, your Comtesse Bouchaud falls. A member of the Jackmanii group, she will get started a few weeks late, yes, but will bloom to the end of the fall. Plant-

ing rules for all Clematises are “lots of sun” but “cool feet”. Do plant her very deeply and provide shade for only her lower stalk and root area, sun for all the climbing parts.

We’re longtime gardeners and new to Capitol Hill, where beautiful trees sur-

round our new home. We’ve always heard how sensational shade gardens can be. Now’s our big chance! Can you supply any general tips and the odd planting suggestion for a truly shady lot?

Until you have observed the light at all times of day on all the garden parts of your property, wait to plant anything. Your maximum sunlight is now, in June. Divide the space into Light shade, Medium shade and Deep Shade. Early spring when trees have no leaves will o er the best light for early spring blooming bulbs and perennials such as Helleborus, Mahonia, Quince. Even the faint light in the shadiest parts of your property will work for the many perennials that tolerate deep shade, such as Solomon’s Seal, Wild Ginger, Brunnera, Hosta and Ferns. Consult ower books.

As you begin to buy and plant, know that shade gardens need less water as a general rule. For soil, remember forests. They have layers of composted leaves on top of many tree roots. To survive in a forest, owers have to be shallow-rooted. Also, shade gardens can revel in the spectacular painted, striped and multicolored leaves of shade-loving perennials. Pulmonaria (Lungwort) have beautiful dotted leaves and blue owers – but the best, “Sissinghurst White”, will glorify any shade garden with its stunning white owers.

When is the best time to transplant a Hosta?

April is the best time for the big job, mostly because it’s easier on you, the gardener. Hosta plants can be heavy and unwieldy, always need plenty of water, which April can supply, transplanting traumatizes any plant, summer heat makes soil hard and dry, and you’re providing the longest time for root survival.

For information about the Capitol Hill Garden Club, visit the club website, “capitolhillgardenclub.org”. Feeling beset by gardening problems? Send them to the Problem Lady c/o the Editor, Hill Garden News. Your problems might even prove instructive to others and help them feel superior to you. Complete anonymity is assured. ◆

doors

restore/make them in

shop, kitchens, baths cabinets, counter tops, built-ins, etc.

A new deck over a garage with a frame for a sunshade and stainless steel cable railings.

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, manager of the Coldwell Banker office on Capitol Hill. The list includes address, sales price and number of bedrooms.

NEIGHBORHOOD PRICE BR

COME ON HOME TO SUMMER!

COMINGSOON!

553 15th St SECOMING SOON! 3BR/3.5BA

WIDE FRONTAGE & TALL CEILINGS ON TREMENDOUS TREE LINED BLOCK! Enjoy extrawide frontage in this attractive Federal brick bayfront along 15th Street at Kentucky Avenue, a delightful Capitol Hill block. Tall ceilings, wood floors, fireplace, primary bedroom suite, and bonus lower level. This one won’t last!

AVAILABLE NOW!

243 10th ST NE

5BR/6.5BA

$2,990,000

ORNATE VICTORIAN FACADE CONTAINS CAPTIVATING CAPITAL COMPOUND! TRULY TREMENDOUS - Never before seen combination of classic tall Victorian home plus with GIANT rear carriage house 41’ x 30’ - almost three lots wide, all at the heart of Capitol Hill Historic District! Freshly renovated top to bottom by the consummate craftsmen of Pitch Pine Building Company into a Capitol Hill Custom Compound! 4600 total square feet across two beautiful buildings, plus private courtyard for deck, patio, garden. Thoughtful layouts deliver full flexibility to live as one multi-generational home, or as 2, 3, or 4 separate living apartments.

1724

COMINGSOON!

618 8th St NE 2BR/2.5BA

VICTORIAN BAYFRONT BETWEEN BARRACKS ROW AND H STREET! Attractive Victorian bayfront home offers two smart above grade levels perfectly placed between H Street / Atlas and Barracks Row / Eastern Market!

1300 Eye Street NE 2BR/2BA

Unit 1: $799,900

Unit 3 or 4: $775,000

Unit 5: $825,000

STUNNING BOUTIQUE CONDOS ONLY 4 LEFT!

All new ground-up construction of unparalleled quality from Schmidt Development - maker of Hill mansions! Every unit is a grand corner at ‘Eye’ Street Condominium; Unit 1 delivers a private entrance, Units 3, 4 & 5 offer entry from 13th Street gardens with roof deck access. Fully custom kitchen and baths with Amish cabinets, Carrara marble kitchen and baths, plus wide oak floors. Two units gone and two parking spots left (optional add-on)!!!

Potomac Ave SE 3BR/1.5BA

$949,000

SOUTH-FACING SEMI-DETACHED READY FOR YOUR BIG VISION! TREMENDOUS opportunity to own TWICE the land of your Capitol Hill neighbors! Solid and semi-detached Federal brick porch front celebrates 100 years overlooking the rolling hills of Congressional. Sunny southern exposure all day long across 33 feet of frontage, plus back yard 125 feet deep for green garden oasis, expansion, future carriage house concept, and plentiful parking. A truly RARE combination that allows easy move-in now for gradual enhancements, or transformational renovations in every direction. Come picture the possibilities in person!

602 12th St NE 3BR/2.5BA/Parking

$888,000

COMPELLING CAPITAL CONDO CAPTIVATES INSIDE & OUT! The grand corner of broad boulevard Maryland Avenue and 12th Street is now re-invented

202.243.7707 info@joelnelsongroup.com

like a semi-detached house, but low-maintenance like a condo, with really rare private outdoor spaces.

At The Movies

Two Documentaries Show the Triumph of Technology and the Crushing of Technological Potential

by Mike Canning

entists still follow the progress of this historic experiment. “It’s Quieter in the Twilight” tells us the story of these scientific holdouts, now in the “twilight” of their work (now in release, the film runs a crisp 83 minutes and is not rated—though it contains nothing objectionable).

The film uses ample historic and animation footage of the Voyager conception, construction, and launch and contains many film and video excerpts of its findings, especially around Saturn in its early days. But what this film really concentrates on is the dwindling but dedicated personnel still monitoring the project.

It’s Quieter in the Twilight

The Voyager 1 spacecraft was a singular project when NASA launched it in September 1977. Its aim, as a space probe, was to study the outer solar system and interstellar space, beginning with flybys of planets Jupiter and Saturn. Later, its mission was extended to locate and study the regions and boundaries of the outer heliosphere and to explore the interstellar medium in 2012. To this day, it continues to penetrate space, having traveled some 14 billion miles from earth. It will be shut down in 2025. (To note: a twin probe, Voyager 2, was launched weeks before Voyager 1 and performed flybys of Uranus and Neptune).

All these years, scientists at NASA and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California have been piloting and obtaining readings from the space vehicle, which continues to reveal secrets in our solar system. Even as the probe’s distance increases and its information thins out, a small group of sci-

The remaining Voyager team of scientists—now down to a dozen or so—work in a non-descript building “next to a McDonalds.” They are comfortable in the quiet; it suits them. Yet this quirky team of engineers—now in their 70’s and 80’s--are still pushing the notion of discovery, traveling among stars propelled only by dwindling sunlight.

The remaining staff is also pleasantly diverse. They include a sweet woman from rural South Korea (Sun Matsumoto), a man from the Jim Crow South (Jefferson Hall), and two South Americans who found rich lives as scientists in the U.S. (Enrique Medina and Fernando Peralta), as well as the groups’ director Suzy Dodd and a cluster of others. All those interviewed are articulate and knowledgeable, as well as good-humored about their status on a predestined project. They display no regrets, but some-

times evince a sense of nostalgia, even pathos, describing their life’s work.

The director of the film, documentarian Billy Miossi, has spoken eloquently about this Voyager team in an interview: “There’s a unique dichotomy that drew me into the story of the aging Voyager mission. The grandest feat of human exploration being steered by a humble few sitting in a drab office space. They seek no fame, no recognition. Instead, they’re content to quietly contribute a novel expertise for the sake of a deeper understanding of the vastness that exists beyond our world. So much is owed to a tiny team of engineers who have forgone promotions, and now retirement. To understand... their devotion is what lies at the heart of ‘It’s Quieter in the Twilight.’”

Afghan Dreamers

The Afghan Girls Robotics Team, also known as the “Afghan Dreamers,” is an all-girl robotics team from Herat, Afghanistan, founded in 2017 by Roya Mahboob and made up of girls between the ages of 12 and 18, all students at the Herami High School.

In the new film “It’s Quieter in the Twilight,” Voyager Engineer Enrique Medina speaks with the Deep Space Network in Australia. Photo courtesy of Weigel Productions

Members of the robotics team work on a robot in “Afghan Dreamers.”

Photo courtesy of MTV Documentary Films

*NEW!*

Hill Center’s Dragathon Extrava-GAY-za!

Sunday, June 18, 4:00pm-7:00pm

CONCERTS

American Roots: Kaleta & Super Yamba Band

Sunday, June 4, 4:30pm-6:30pm

Global Sounds on the Hill: “Latingrass” ft. Larry & Joe

Thursday, June 8, 7:00pm

Hill Center Presents:

Afro Dead + Sia Tolno

Thursday, June 22, 7:00pm

House Concerts at Hill Center: Melan & Magnus Andretti

Sunday, June 25, 4:30pm-6:30pm

COOKING CLASSES & TASTINGS

Kitchen 101: Knife Skills

Wednesday, June 7, 6:00pm-7:30pm

A Trip to Indonesia: Nasi Goreng (Fried Rice)

Thursday, June 8, 6:00pm-8:30pm

Indian Inspired Brunch: Dosas & Mimosas to Kick Off Summer!

Sunday, June 11, 11:00am-1:30pm

Family Style: Cheb ou Jen with Marianne Tshihamba

Saturday, June 17, 11:00am-2:00pm Kitchen 101: Sushi Rolling

Wednesday, June 21, 6:00pm-8:00pm

Congo Cravings: Chicken Mwamba, Sweet Plantains, & Fufu

Thursday, June 22, 6:00pm-8:30pm

Master Seafood Class with Fishmonger Fiona Lewis

Saturday, June 24, 11:00am-2:00pm

Kitchen 101: Knife Skills

Wednesday, June 28, 6:00pm-7:30pm

LECTURES & CONVERSATIONS

THE SOLDIER’S TRUTH: Ernie Pyle & The Story of WWII

Tuesday, June 6, 7:00pm

The 272: The Families Who Were Enslaved & Sold to Build the American Catholic Church

Wednesday, June 14, 7:00pm

Profs & Pints: Urban Wild Life 101

Tuesday, June 27, 6:00pm-8:30pm

STUDIO ARTS

Basic Drawing Techniques: Drawing from an Image

Tuesday, June 6, 13, & 20, 6:30pm-8:00pm

One-Off Workshops

Contemporary Watercolors:

Saturday, June 10, 12:00pm-2:00pm

Introduction to Linocut Printmaking:

Saturday, June 10, 2:30pm-5:00pm

Children’s Art Workshop (Ages 5-7): THE ART OF GEORGIA O’KEEFFE

Saturday, June 10, 1:30pm-3:00pm

Children’s Art Workshop (Ages 7-9): THE ART OF HENRI MATISSE

Saturday, June 17, 1:30pm-3:00pm

Local Makers Workshop: Needle Felted Cactus with Rock Paper Plant

Saturday, June 17, 2:00pm-3:30pm

Local Makers Workshop: Soy Candle Making with Defined Elegance Candle Co.

Sunday, June 25, 2:00pm-4:00pm

HUMANITIES & PERFORMING ARTS

Storytelling: A Workshop in Creative Nonfiction

Saturday, June 3, 1:00pm-4:00pm

ONGOING PROGRAMS

Armed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP)

Busy Bees: Music & Art Playgroup

French Courses: Various Levels

District Flow Yoga

Frontlines: Infant and Child CPR

Gottaswing

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.

Some 150 girls contended for the team, which was whittled down to six. Mahboob is the group’s coach, mentor, and sponsor and was recruited to form a team from Afghanistan to attend a competition in the US.

The girls include Fatemah, who became the team captain, Lida, a lifetime lover of video games, and Somaya, with an aptitude for mechanics. Besides Roya as their backer, they had sturdy support from Fatemeh’s mother, a psychologist.

In 2017, six Dreamers traveled to the US to participate in the First International Global Challenge robotics competition, which took place in the DAR’s Constitution Hall in DC. Though their visas were rejected twice (because of the Trump Administration’s Muslim ban), officials in the US Congress and the United States government intervened to allow them to finally enter the United States.

They were awarded a Silver Medal for “Courageous Achievement,” and returned home as young heroes and became national celebrities. Soon after they came home from the competition, the fragility of their world came home to them when the father of team captain Fatemah, Mohammad Asif Qaderyan, was killed in a suicide bombing. After their United States visas expired, the team participated in competitions in Canada and Mexico.

The film opens with the girls’ participation in the May 2018 Oslo Freedom Forum, where Somaya Faruqi addresses the assembled: “ ‘Afghan Dreamers’ is the story of every little girl who fights for the right to attend school and engineer our planet,” said Faruqi. “I hope this film draws the world’s eyes to Afghanistan, where girls today can only dream of attending school and living how we choose.”

In 2019 the Dreamers entered a competition in Dubai, and the film shows their participation there, where

they were challenged to design a robot to remove trash items from the ocean. They did not succeed and returned to Afghanistan where leader Mahboob challenged them to persist and improve. In 2020, the Afghan Dreamer’s Institution was founded to use technology to rebuild their country, and the Dreamers, teenagers, looked forward to attending university and perfecting their skills.

In 2021, however, the Taliban began to make advances on Kabul from the West and take over the capital (shown in familiar conflict footage from August 2021). The new regime quickly banned girls over 12 from all schools, shutting down the Dreamers’ future in their own country. They then fled to other lands.

David Greenwald, a versatile film editor turned director, helms “Afghan Dreamers” as a well-paced, mostly chronological story, using footage of their work and travels, interspersed with interviews of the girls: all sweet, articulate, and inspired by their love of science.

Asked about their achievement, Greenwald replied. “The Taliban can ban girls from going to school. They can prevent women doctors from practicing medicine or not allow female judges from entering the courtroom. But one thing they can’t do is erase the accomplishments of the Afghan girl’s robotic team. They’re part of Afghan history now and their hopes and dreams live on in the hearts and minds of every Afghan girl.”

Hill resident Mike Canning has written on movies for the Hill Rag since 1993 and is a member of the Washington Area Film Critics Association. He is the author of “Hollywood on the Potomac: How the Movies View Washington, DC” His reviews and writings on film can be found online at www. mikesflix.com u

Capitol Cuisine

June–and restaurants–are bursting out all over. Well, not exactly, but Capitol Hill has gained at least two new establishments, and both are winners. Barracks Row welcomes Akeno Sushi Bar & Thai, 524 Eighth St. SE (upstairs), where Nooshi used to be. Here we nd Japanese and Siamese cuisine all under one roof, this time featuring a festive rooftop bar.

Akeno, Japanese for “sunrise,” is a spino of the same-named restaurant in Alexandria. Crafted by Thai-born Chef Jack, the eclectic menu showcases marvelous sushi and sashimi. The upscale lineup includes maguro (blue n tuna), hamachi (yellowtail), unagi (broiled eel), uni (sea urchin), sake (salmon), tako (octopus) and combo plates. Since Chef Jack hails from Thailand, his menu o ers dishes like Pad Thai, drunken beef (noodles), Ka Prow beef and assorted curries.

We were beyond amazed; Akeno’s kitchen does some serious cooking. Unable to choose from the mind-boggling selection–we ordered the chef’s sashimi “tasting.” The beautifully presented trio was composed of slivers of gently seared halibut; silken textured salmon, subtly perfumed with trufes and hamachi (yellowtail) crowned with jalapeno circles. The ethereal sashimi practically levitated o the handsome ebony-hued platter.

On the Thai menu, Panang curry was replete with chunks of white chicken meat in a savory coconut/based sauce which delivered just the right bal-

by Celeste McCall

ance of hot and sweet.

The bar pours exotic cocktails like Akeno-tini (sake and Cointreau), Lavender gin zzes and Togarashi passion margaritas, all decorated with orchids and other blossoms. This time we stuck to warm sake and a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon, which complemented our repast. Dinner for two with a drink apiece came to $78.85 before tip. Service was excellent.

For reservations, hours and more information visit www.akenosushuibar.com.

And...

Nearby: I Egg You, the latest o spring of the popular sandwich group, is opening soon–if not already-at 423 Eighth St. SE. Visit www.ieggyou.com.

Ukrainian Power

Near Eastern Market, the eagerly awaited Ruta Ukrainian Restaurant quietly opened late last month at 327 Seventh St. SE. Ruta, named after a red ower from ancient folklore, is reportedly Washington’s only Ukrainian restaurant. Heading Chef Dima Martseniuk’s menu is Ukrainian borscht, potato pancakes (similar to latkes), varenykys (like pierogis), chicken Kyiv, beef strogano and a smattering of salads and burgers. There’s also a brief wine and beer listing.

On a chilly mid-week evening, we were grateful for our 7:30 reservations. The place was packed–

humming with positive energy. Our pleasant server warned us that service would be slow. No problem; we were busy admiring the colorful Ukrainian paintings and other ethnic motifs. Sipping our drinks–California Cabernet Sauvignon and a Lvivke 1715 Ukrainian beer–we perused the brief but comprehensive menu. We launched our repast by sharing a bowl of borscht–a hearty mélange of beef, cabbage and potatoes presented with the obligatory sour cream. (You can also opt for a veggie version.) Then we tackled a plate of varenykys with various llings: Bu alo chicken, short ribs, potato/sauerkraut. We barely found space for our entrée: chicken Kyiv. The signature dish–chicken breast wrapped around melted cheese–outshone the rendition we experienced on a long ago visit to Kyiv, when Ukraine was part of the Soviet Union.

Dinner for two with a drink apiece came to $87. Ser-

At Akeno Sushi Bar & Thai (Barracks Row), Thai-born Chef Jack creates delicious sushi and sashimi plus other Asian dishes.

Heading the kitchen at Ruta Ukrainian Restaurant (near Eastern Market), is Chef Dima and Sous Chef Mykola Yudin who prepare authentic dishes from their homeland. At Ruta, a plate of varenyky –with assorted fillings— make a delicious shareable appetizer.

Chef Jack’s “Sashimi Tasting” is a trio of seared halibut, salmon and yellowtail crowned with jalapeno pepper circlets.

vice, rendered by Dora, was thoughtful and friendly. For now, Ruta is open for dinner only; for more information and reservations (highly recommended!), visit rutadc.us.

Taco Winner

After visiting our Waterside Fitness & Swim Club on a dreary May afternoon, Peter and I sauntered over to the District Wharf. There we checked out bartaco, 645 Wharf St. SW. Our experience certainly exceeded expectations. We thought the attractive, sprightly three-month-old bartaco would be a casual taco eatery rather than an outstanding Latino restaurant. Every morsel on the menu was delicious, service was prompt, and prices were reasonable. Our most expensive food selection was a tangy, spicy ceviche at $9.50, followed by avorful gazpacho ($6.50) with croutons that added an agreeable crunch. We also ordered a small bowl of chunky guacamole ($6.75) along with three types of small tacos: plump fried oysters ($5.95); rm baja

sh ($3.95), and seared chorizo ($2.95). We washed down our meals with a glass of Torremoron tempranillo vino ($10) and my unsweetened tea ($4) served in a huge carafe. Presented on metal trays, other taco items included glazed pork belly, roast duck, ahi tuna, and cauli ower, as well as “not tacos” like chicken tortilla soup, street corn and roasted half chicken. There’s also an array of rice bowls and a kids’ menu. We were so sated at meal’s end that we took home our dessert, a jar of key lime pie ($7). Our total bill was only $62. We will return. For hours and more information visit bartaco.com.

And...

Nearby, at 676 Maine Ave. SW, the Wharf spino of Milk & Honey opened recently. The 10-member, local restaurant group is known for panko-crusted deviled eggs, seafood Cobb salads, blackened salmon BLTs, cat sh & grits, chicken & biscuits. (There’s another M & H at 1116 H St. NE in the Atlas District.) For now, the Wharf newcomer has no alcohol license. For updates visit www.milknhoneycafe.com.

Market Watch

While searching for baklava–the Greek honeysoaked, phyllo encased dessert–we stumbled upon Loza Egyptian Pastries at Eastern Market. We settled on baalawa, similar to baklava. How is it di erent? “Baalawa (stu ed with pistachios and walnuts) has less sugar than baklava, and it is crisper and u er,” proprietor Asmaa Bassuny, who comes from Cairo, explained.

Loza also carries basboussa (semolina cake), kamafah (shredded pastry layers lled with milk pudding), Egyptian biscuits, cookies and boxes of assorted goodies. You’ll nd Loza–which also ships her products--most Saturdays and Sundays at the Market’s farmers line. For more information visit www.lozapastry. com.

6/1 - Don Dillingham

6/2 - The Hot Lanes

6/3 - Batida Diferente

6/8 - Steve Washington

6/9 - Elijah Balbed

6/10 - Capitol Jazz Orchestra

6/15 - Addie Stan

6/16 - Fran Vielma Orchestra

6/17 - Darcy Cooke

6/22 - Jack Feder

6/23 - 4 on the Floor

6/24 - Andrew Musselman

6/29 - Tony Gidell

6/30 - Debra Galan

Mon-Fri 11am – 1:30am Sat

Sun 10:30am – 1:30am

Bartaco’s tangy ceviche is replete with seafood and tongue-torching jalapeno peppers.

At the Eastern Market weekend farmer’s line, Loza proprietor Asmaa Bassuny displays a plate of Egyptian pastries.

Foundry Gallery

Duly Noted Painters “Weight of the World”

June 3 – 25, 2023

Foundrygallery.org

Working in tandem, artist duo Kurtis Ceppetelli and Matt Malone jointly call themselves “Duly Noted Painters.” The pair’s third exhibition at Foundry Gallery titled “Weight of the World” is a new series of figurative work, a subject-matter for which the artists are known.

Art and the City

by Phil Hutinet

They liken their creative process to a pair of Jazz musicians improvising as they play. The artists produce large paintings on rough canvas using charcoal and salvaged household latex paint which they affectionately call “an orphanage of color.” Over the course of their partnership, Duly Noted Painters have created mostly human-centered works consisting of both individual portraits and what appear to be staged scenes with multiple actors. As each artist adds his touch of paint or charcoal, new layers form and often these marks create abstract elements which surround the more defined human figures. In “Weight of the World,” the duo examines the fear and uncertainty about the future in our post-pandemic world. Having followed these artists work for almost a decade, what I find particularly novel about the work in this series is the use of brighter, almost fluorescent colors. However, the artists explain that “the frequently bright color palette masks and contradicts a tense underlying narrative of tough times.” “Back Breaking” perfectly illustrates this—the pleasing purple and reddish-orange hues of the painting contradict the arduous physical labor endured by the subjects. 2118 8th Street NW, Washington, DC. Hours:

Friday, Saturday, Sunday 12-6 p.m. info@foundrygallery.org

HEMPHILL

Anne Rowland “Pictures”

May 20-July 1

hemphillfinearts.com

To produce work for her third solo exhibition at HEMPHILL titled “Pictures,” Anne Rowland has experimented with the use of artificial intelligence, describing her prints as “inhabiting a place between photography and painting.” As a child growing up in Great Falls, VA, Rowland recalls being surrounded by all kinds of maps and aerial photos of her family home and of nearby properties in the 1960s when the area still had working farms. She laments the systematic expansion of suburban sprawl in Northern Virginia and the destruction of these once rural areas. Rowland has dedicated a large swath of her artistic career to studying landscapes and their transformation. In “Pictures,” she printed works which represent aerial views that are, in part, created by artificial intelligence. As she explains it “I am taking machine-made imagery and transforming it into something new.” The process has resulted in prints which look like abstract paintings whose rounded forms appear to be in a constant, swirling motion. Upon closer examination of these dizzying forms, one can discern aerial images of mountains peaks, fields and deserts. 434 K Street NW, Washington, DC. Hours: Tuesday–Saturday from 12–5 p.m., Thursday hours to 7 p.m. 202.234.5601 or gallery@ hemphillartworks.com

National Portrait Gallery

“1898 US Imperial Visions and Revisions”, Apr. 28, 2023-Feb. 25, 2024, npg.si.edu

You do not have to remember the details of the Monroe Doctrine from high school history to enjoy “1898 US Imperial Visions and Revisions” currently on view at the National Portrait Gallery through next February. In fact, the team of historians and curators who assembled this exhibition would like to encourage audiences to reexamine US history, arguing that the Spanish American War, the PhilippineAmerican War and the Annexation of Hawaii are key moments in the US’s rise as a world power. As a result of these military actions between 1898 and 1899, the US expanded its territorial holdings to include Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam, Hawaii and the Philippines. The expan-

Duly Noted “Look In Her Eyes”, 44”x56”, Charcoal and latex paint on canvas. Image courtesy of the artist.

Foundry – Duly Noted “Back Breaking”, 42”x54”, Charcoal and latex paint on canvas. Image courtesy of the artist.

Hemphill – Anne Rowland, “Farther Over There (Lake Paiku, Tibetan Plateau)”, 2022, archival pigment print on rag paper, 30 x 22 3/4 inches, Ed. 1/5. Image courtesy HEMPHILL.

sive exhibition features period collectibles (including some really odd board games!), photographs, political cartoons, newspaper clippings and most importantly portraits of many of the key leaders during this period. Two portraits in particular are worth a visit to the exhibition— John Singer Sargent’s rendition of President Theodore Roosevelt and William F. Cogswell larger-than-life painting of Queen Lili`uokalani of Hawaii. Roosevelt’s portrait, which is on loan from the White House, is one of art history lore—it is said the Roosevelt could not sit still for his portrait forcing Sargent to paint him in five minute increments. Queen Lili`uokalani’s massive portrait is a masterpiece which dominates the room and commands your attention. This is the first time the queen’s portrait has ever left Hawaii so don’t miss your chance to see it unless you plan a trip to the 50th state in 2024. Eighth and G streets NW, Washington, DC. Hours: Every day from 11:30 a.m.-7 p.m., except Dec. 25. 202-633-1000.

Adkins Arboretum

Alonzo Davis “Navigating Climate Change”

May 2-June 30, 2023

adkinsarboretum.org

Adkins Arboretum is about an hour away from Capitol Hill on the Eastern Shore of Maryland adjacent to Tuckahoe State Park and hosts art programs throughout the year in its main pavilion. A visit here is a great option for those of you interested in a quick day-trip. Alonzo Davis is a renowned and celebrated artists, gallerist and educator whose career spans over a half-acentury. The prestigious David Driskell Center at the University of Maryland acquired the artist’s archive last year. “Navigating Climate Change” exhibits Davis’ recent raft sculptures titled “Navigation Series” which he created using bamboo canes, dyed cloth (which represent sails) and LED lights. Davis found inspiration in the use of “stick charts” used by Micronesians to navigate between very distant islands in the vast expanses of the Pacific Ocean. While the works touch on several topics, one of the most poignant is the impact rising oceans will have on low-lying island-nations. What I find particularly interesting is that “Navigating Climate Change” is being shown on the Eastern Shore. Like Micronesia, most of the Delmarva Peninsula is mostly at sea-level and faces a similar existential threat if political leaders do not act swiftly to resolve the effects Global Warming. 12610 Eveland Road, Ridgely, Md. Contact the Arboretum at 410-634-2847, ext. 0 or info@adkinsarboretum.org for gallery hours.

Portrait of Queen Lili`uokalani, Artist: William F. Cogswell, Oil on canvas, c. 1891-92. Hawai’i State Archives; Photo: David Franzen

Adkins – Alonzo Davis “Navigating Climate Change”. Photo credit: Mary Mccoy.

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

The Literary Hill

Three Young Adult Reads for The First Days of Summer

by Michelle LaFrance

As schools begin to let out, it’s time to stack up a few riveting reads for the long and lazy days of summer. This month’s column focuses on three books for young adults (YA). But as any avid reader of recent releases knows, YA has gained currency with readers of all ages. The three books reviewed this month are no exception. Suitable for all ages. Stylistically varied. Rich with storytelling. Perfect for a hot summer’s day in the hammock or by the pool.

Why Fathers Cry at Night: A Memoir in Love Poems, Letters, Recipes, and Remembrances

Readers already familiar with Kwame Alexander’s critically acclaimed work will know him as the author of an enormous range of books for children and young adults, particularly “The Crossover,” a book about two teen brothers who are gifted basketball players, which won the Newberry and climbed the NYTimes bestsellers list.

In his most recent release, Alexander offers a genre-bending memoir—part love letter to his father, mother, and daughters, part reflection on the struggle to know our inner selves. Why Fathers also includes poetry, prose reminiscences and portraits, recipes, and family stories. These snippets are straightforward and brave, if at times, in isolation, a bit simple. Collectively, however, they are anything but—offering a sense of what it means to love, to be in relationship with family histories, to be loved, to fail at love, to regret, to grieve, and to let go. Alexander’s memoir is nothing less than a love

letter to the process of learning to be our most human, fallible, and resilient selves. Along the way, he reminds us to enjoy our favorite music, the magic of a beer with a friend, and some excellent fried chicken with a home baked roll and Caesar salad on the side.

Why Fathers Cry at Night and other titles by Kwame Alexander can be found at local booksellers. For more information on Alexander’s books, appearances, and the Why Father’s Cry at Night Podcast visit: kwamealexander.com

Survive the Dome

Kosoko Jackson’s dystopian thriller will have readers on the edge of their seats, even as it confronts the unrelenting realities of police brutality, government control, and the everyday politics of race. The story unfolds in a Baltimore that has been locked down under a safety protocol called “The Dome”— not just a metaphor for the panoptic police state and systemic racism, but a physical barrier that encloses the unruly city. No one can get in or out.

Aspiring journalist Jamal is trapped inside, having been drawn to a protest over another Black man’s murder by police. He must join forces with Marco, a hacker, and Catherine, an out of place basic-training-gradu-

ate, to take on the corruption of the police force, the chief of police, and the ever-present powers that be. Terrific characters, tight plotting, and the sparks of romance provide terrific counterpoints to the novel’s scathing commentary on the ruthlessness of authoritarian force.

Kosoko Jackson is a digital media specialist and activist for LGBTQ youth whose writings have been published in Medium, Thought Catalog, and The Advocate. For more info about Kosoko Jackson and his work, see: kosokojackson.com.

The Poet X

Will The Poet X perform at the New York Citywide Slam? A provocative and engrossing novel in free verse, The Poet X gives inner life to the coming of age story of DominicanAmerican Xiomara Batista. Pouring poems about her family, the church, her mother’s strict Catholicism, her family and friends, the changes in her body, and growing up in Harlem into her notebook, “Xio” comes to know her strength as she learns that a poem can be “A lantern glowing in the dark.”

Passionate, aching, and confiding, Xiomara’s poems recount the rollercoaster of a first love (“Catching Feelings”), the excitement of preparing for a local poetry slam, conversations with teachers and classmates and, too, conflict with her mother, unanswered questions in catechism class, male harassment on the streets, bullying at school, and knowing her mother will not understand her desire to write poetry or allow her feelings for Aman. Xiomara joins her school’s poetry club and finds voice, purpose, and a sense of herself in her growing collection of poems.

Kwame Alexander. Photo: Harlin Miller.

Kosoko Jackson

Fans of Acevedo’s work will be delighted to hear that her rst novel for adults, Family Lore, will be released in August 2023. The story of a Dominican-American family and their historical journey from Santo Domingo to New York City that unfolds over the three days they prepare for a “living” wake, to celebrate Flor, one of three sisters gifted with the ability to see when others will die.

Elizabeth Acevedo’s website can be found at acevedowrites.com

OutWrite 2023

Readers will want to mark their calendars for OutWrite 2023, coming up August 1113th, this summer. Part of DC Center Arts, OutWrite is an annual LGBTQ+ literary festival, free and open to the public. This year’s festival will host in-person and virtual o erings. For more info: thedccenter. org/outwrite

Library of Congress National Book Festival

Saturday, August 12th, from 9am to 8pm, the 23rd annual Library of Congress National Book Festival will be held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C. As in previous years, this festival is free and open to the public, featuring both virtual, in person, and video recorded programing. Please note: This year’s festival includes enhanced safety and security measures for those entering the Convention Center.

Summer Book Clubs

For readers who are looking to talk books and reading, what could be better than a book club?

Folger Virtual Book Club

The Folger’s Virtual Book club will discuss The Daughter of Time in June 2023. To sign up: www.folger.edu/ whats-on/programs/ book-club-wordswords-words/

East City Book Clubs

From social justice, to kids books, to queer, to romance, to a book club for folks in their 20’s and 30’s, East City Books has a book club for you. Meetings in person, in store, and online. More info: https:// eastcitybookshop.com/ book-clubs

Solid State Book Clubs

O ering a 10% discount before a book club meeting on the featured books, Solid State hosts books clubs for readers of all types: a “Books on Hands” club (focusing on deaf-centered literature), a Sapphic Book club, Bad Books (“books you love to hate”), and a “Lit on H Street” club (on people of color in ction) among others. Click here to nd out more: www. solidstatebooksdc.com/book-clubs

DC Public Library Book Clubs

A wide range of genres and book club leaders – discuss new and old releases in travel, mystery, and Black studies among others. More info: www.dclibrary.org/attend-event/book-clubs

Michelle LaFrance is Associate Professor of English at George Mason University. She teaches creative non ction, life writing, and civic writing at the Hill Center and can often be found in the company of a cranky chihuahua. She blogs about writing, announces her upcoming classes and events, and offers coaching services at writinglostriver.com. ◆

Poetic Hill

Alexa Patrick

by Sandra Beasley

Alexa Patrick is a vocalist and poet from Connecticut who lives in Southwest D.C. She holds fellowships from Cave Canem, the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, and more. Alexa is currently the Programs Director for Shout Mouse Press. In spring 2023, Alexa made her stage production debut as Un/Sung in the opera We Shall Not Be Moved, directed by Kennedy Center honors awardee Bill T. Jones. You may nd her work in publications including The Adroit Journal, CRWN Magazine, and The BreakBeat Poets Vol. 2: Black Girl Magic. Her debut collection Remedies for Disappearing will be published by Haymarket Books in June. Visit alexapatrick.com for more.

The Black Men Outside the Waterfront Safeway are a steady ballet of hands, cipher of dab and dozen transform Southwest street corner into Carnegie Hall.

I walk by. They quiet, shield me from what profanity lls the gaps in their teeth, those golden smiles, the slick tongues that make them.

Some trickle in across 4th defying oncoming tra c. Hood Moseses knowing they control the wave.

Everyday, no matter the time they gather by gum-addled cement, over owing trash bins, neglected memorial benches, just to see each other—

A remedy to whatever else might disappear.

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). ◆

Photo: Adedayo Kosoko

Elizabeth Acevedo

Celebrating Summer S O Lstice

by Pattie Cinelli

As a kid, I looked forward to the summer solstice. It signi ed school was about to end. I knew it was the longest day of the year which translated to more time after dinner to play outside with neighborhood kids. As an adult, summer solstice has means the beginning of summer. Last year I participated in a celebration where I discovered the historical, spiritual and practical meaning of the summer solstice.

Summer solstice is the longest day because that day in the northern hemisphere receives more daylight than any other day of the year. It marks the start of astronomical summer and the tipping point at which days start to become shorter and nights longer.

Earth is tilted at about 23.5 degrees. As it rotates around the sun throughout the year, the northern and southern hemisphere experience half a year tilted toward the sun and the other half tilted away from it. This produces the cycle of the seasons.

Solstice celebrations around the world are joyous ones. “They’re about celebrating the abundance of the earth and all it gives us,” said Sue Greer, who is an ordained minister who practices a variety of energy medicine disciplines. “It’s about community, fertility, joy, celebration of life and abundance. We are honoring the earth.”

Historical Significance

This natural event has been acknowledged and celebrated by Pagan and Christian cultures for thousands of years. Neolithic humans may initially have started to observe the summer solstice as a marker to gure out when to plant and harvest crops. In ancient Egypt, the summer solstice corresponded with the rise of the Nile River. Its observance may have helped to predict annual ooding.

Di erent cultures and religious traditions have di erent names for the summer solstice. In Northern Europe, it’s often referred to as Midsummer. Wiccans and other Neopagan groups call it Litha. Some Christian churches recognize the summer solstice as St. John’s Day to commemorate the birth of John the Baptist.

Many Native American tribes took part in solstice rituals, some of which are still practiced today. Some scholars believe that Wyoming’s Bighorn Medicine Wheel, an arrangement of stones built several hundred years ago by Plains Indians that aligns with the summer solstice sunrise and sunset, was the site of that culture’s annual sun dance.

Even some archaeological structures are thought to re ect ancient observations of the summer solstice. From the view of the Sphinx,

“The central channel of a domed building in Newgrange Ireland, which was built 5,200 years ago, is ooded by sunlight at the exact time the sun rises on the summer solstice,” said Greer. “It was obviously very important to acknowledge and honor the solstice all those years ago. It’s as critical now as ever because we as a culture have gotten out of the cycles of nature,” she said. Celebrating the solstice, “helps you become more in balance and in touch with how the environment a ects us.”

Archeologists have long debated the purpose and uses of the monument Stonehenge, in the south of England. The site is aligned with the direction of the sunrise on the summer solstice. Each year, thousands gather at Stonehenge to commemorate the longest day of the year and often celebrate all night.

Ways to Celebrate

Many cultures celebrate the summer solstice. Midsummer festivities are popular in Northern Europe where bon res are lit, girls wear owers in their hair and homes are decorated with garlands and other greenery.

Don’t have a celebration to go to? You can

Greer holds a summer solstice celebration each year at her church in Lewes, DE.

the sun sets squarely between the Great Pyramids of Khufu and Khafre on Egypt’s Giza plateau on the summer solstice.

commemorate the solstice alone, with family or friends right in your own home or neighborhood. Take a hike. Get o the beaten path, lace up those hiking boots, and prepare to sweat a little. There’s no better way to celebrate Summer Solstice than (a music and podcast-free) hike, allowing the only noise to be the sound of crunching dirt beneath your feet and birds singing in the trees.

• Bask in the sun’s glory. Get outside, go to a park, listen to the trees.

• Stargaze. Try getting out of the city limits to see stars more clearly. Congressional Cemetery is also a good location closer to home to better see the sky.

• Go camping. Enjoying immersing yourself in nature for a night or two.

• Plant a garden or just a plant in your yard.

• Make a suncatcher, which is a traditional symbol of the summer solstice. Use beads that re ects sun into your home. You can nd directions on-line.

• Make a list of your dreams. Focus on a few and commit to enacting meaningful changes. Think of this time as a new beginning.

• Review New Year resolutions. Now is the time to rea rm them, tweak them or change them.

The summer solstice happens at the exact same moment – in 2023 that’s 10:58 am EDT Tuesday, June 21st – everywhere in the Northern Hemisphere. I plan to mark the moment outside focusing on the environment around me. I also plan to set my intentions. It’s a time to be thankful, happy and look forward to the summer.

To contact Sue Greer: 302228-3596. Email: greerhawk@ gmail.com.

Pattie Cinelli is a health and tness professional and journalist who has been writing her column for more than 25 years. She focuses on non-traditional ways to stay healthy, get t and get well. Please email her with questions or column suggestions at: tmiss44@aol.com.

Sue Greer

The District Vet

Take Water on a Long Dog Walk

by Dan Teich, DVM

As the summer starts to heat up and our pups pant the day away, be alert to their hydration and sources of water. Dogs regulate their temperature mainly through evaporative heat transfer/cooling via their lungs. Unlike people they do not have very active sweat glands. Panting releases a substantial amount of water vapor from the body, so drinking water frequently is a necessity, especially when it’s hot.

When out for a stroll in the woods, is it safe to permit your dog to drink water from puddles and streams? Maybe. Unlike their wild ancestors, our domestic dogs aren’t as prepared for the normal bacteria and parasites in natural water sources. The more stagnant the water, the higher the degree of concern. Flowing water tends to have less toxins and a lower bacteria and parasite count. Playing it safe by bringing water from a clean source.

Potential risks / concerns with water from untreated sources include:

Leptospirosis

In a recent article, we discussed this common bacteria, which is passed in the urine of mammals, including rats, raccoons, skunks, etc. Infection with the leptospirosis bacteria can lead to liver and kidney failure. This bacteria is also transmissible to people. Leptospirosis is found here in the city and

also in the suburbs/rural areas. Puddles are of main concern. Clinical signs may include fever, vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, and muscle pain or weakness.

Giardia

Common in puppies, giardia is a leading cause of diarrhea. This bug is a protozoal parasite, which may be difficult to eliminate, frequently requiring two medications. It too is water-borne, and is passed from animal to animal via fecal contamination. Dogs with giardia may experience watery diarrhea (or sometimes none at all), vomiting, weight loss, lack of appetite and lethargy.

Cryptosporidium

Cryptosporidiosis, like giardia, has a protozoal causative agent. While carried by most mammals, it is most commonly found in more rural areas near farmland. It may cause intractable watery diarrhea, dehydration, and is quite nasty. Don’t ask how I personally know this.

Escherichia Coli

E. coli, for short, is a very common bacterium found in most mammals. It usually does not cause clinical disease in small numbers, but some virulent strains may lead to vomiting and diarrhea, similar to giardia. Like giardia, E. coli is passed from animal to animal from water contaminated with feces.

Cyanobacateria (Blue-Green Algae)

Found in most water sources, most cyanobacteria are harmless. Toxic strains may be found in ponds and lakes, less commonly in flowing water. This bacteria can rapidly multiply under the right conditions, leading to high levels of contamination. Ingestion can lead to vomiting, liver failure, seizures, and frequently, death. Progression of signs can be quite rapid. Avoid swimming, drinking, and contact with any water that has visible pond scum, a greenish or bluish sheen, or large amounts of algae present.

Antifreeze

Although not winter, combustion engine vehicles will all have antifreeze in their radiators. The main ingredient is ethylene glycol, which tastes sweet. Dogs will lick it off pavement or from puddles on roadways. Ingestion may cause irreversible kidney failure and neurologic disease.

Moral of the story: When out with your dog on an adventure, bring fresh water. And most definitely avoid stagnant ponds and streams.

Dan Teich, DVM, is medical director at District Veterinary Hospitals at Eastern Market and Navy Yard u

Dear Class of 2023,

It’s my great honor to address so many of you here in the Hill Rag, our community newspaper of record and wish you the very best as you mark this important milestone. Congratulations! Your graduation is an incredible achievement, no matter the journey to get to this moment.

You’re graduating at a time when life can feel very urgent, and maybe even overwhelming. But you’re already nding ways to take on the biggest challenges confronting us, like gun violence, climate change, racial injustice, and threats to our most vulnerable friends and family members. As much as it can seem like progress is halting and slow, when you step back, we’ve made tremendous leaps forward in so many ways. That happened because young people just like you rolled up their sleeves and acted courageously and purposefully to serve their communities. You have incredible power and potential, and I know you’ll make the world a better place. I’m so proud of your passion and the leadership you’re showing in our neighborhoods, and I know you’re the change we need.

I have no doubt there are great things ahead for the Class of 2023. I’m proud of you already, and as you take your next steps, I hope you do so knowing that your community is behind you. We can’t wait to see what lies ahead for each of you.

Congratulations again to you and your families!

Councilmember Charles Allen, Ward

Hip Hip Hooray! Elsa Cutler

Georgetown Day School ‘23

From Peabody to Wesleyan University you’ve rocked. We know you will bring energy, creativity, and kindness to every next step. We are so proud of you, our E. Shae -- always a Hill kid.

– We love you, Mom, Dad and sister

Congratulations

Eleanor Ashdown!

Washington Latin Class of 2023

You delighted your caregivers at Jenkins Hill, the Hill Preschool, Ms. Frances, and your Watkins Elementary and Washington Latin Public Charter School teachers.

And, thanks to the teachers and volunteers at CHAW, American Youth Chorus, SOTH, and Fort Dupont Ice Arena, you learned to try new things, find your voice, and skate to your heart’s content. We are incredibly proud of you and cannot wait to cheer you on as you represent Team USA on Miami University’s Senior Synchronized Skating team.

– Love, Mom, Dad & Audrey

Congratulations

Washington Latin 2023

Climb the trees, jump in the ocean, try what feels scarry or hard – and at the end of the day, remember to smile, because you have tried ….. then have a bowl of ice cream and know that we love you and are so very proud of you.

Congratulations Eden!

“There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.”

— C.S. Lewis

We are so proud of who you are and all your accomplishments and know that your quiet, persistent diligence will take you far along with your infectious creativity. You are a bright star that always lights the way. Let it shine and know we love you so much!

– Mom & Dad, Emma & Evan

Congrats to Eddie Ertel, Capitol Hill "lifer!"

He started his journey at Jenkins Hill CDC, where he wreaked havoc. He then moved on to the Hill Preschool and St. Peter School, where he made his mark as an energetic mischief-maker and crack basketball player. He’s now graduating from DeMatha Catholic High School, a place he loves and will miss dearly. He’s looking forward to his next big journeystudying Business Management at Fordham University.

– Good luck, Eddie! The Hill (and your family) will miss you very much! Love, Mom, and Dad

Congratulations, Layla!!!

Washington Latin Public Charter School

We’re so proud of you and so excited for all the adventures ahead of you!

Keep dreaming big, inspiring us with your insight, staying true to your ideals, brightening our lives with your laughter, embracing the world with open arms, and celebrating the incredible friendships you make along the way.

We love you and we can’t wait to see where your journey will lead!

– With tons of love, pride, and joy, Mom, Dad, Jonah, and Suukyi

Congratulations Adah Rose Svetlik!

We are so proud of you! Love, Mama, Papa and Abigail

Congratulations Adam!

Washington Latin PCS

We wish you all the best at Iowa State! With love and pride today and always.

– Love, Mom and Dad

Congrats, Maeve!

You continually amaze us!

We cannot wait for your next adventures at UMich and beyond! Love you to the moon and back!

– Mom, Dad & Wynne

Way to Go Oliver!

Oliver Anderson will be attending Emory University in the fall with a focus on health science. We are so proud of him!

– Love, Mom and Dad

Congratulations Mak!

Marking your graduation, we’re filled with pride. Your extraordinary swimming achievements, the patent you hold, and your compassionate leadership at DUXO.org truly stand out. Your dedication to global landmine clearance and UN collaboration illustrates your strong character. As you prepare for Yale, we know you’ll continue to inspire, make a difference, and excel. Mak, we celebrate your success and eagerly anticipate the journey ahead.

– With admiration, Mom, Dad, and Ersin

Congratulations Tessa!

Elizabeth Seton High School

Tessa (Teresa), our harvest child: so attuned to light, to shadow, to beauty, so sturdy in the face of storm.

We are with you through the rocky patches, praying always for better weather, knowing that you will harvest great bounty of your own. Fiat Lux! Enjoy CLARK.

– love, Papi, Mami, Nora, Sarah and everyone else

Congratulations Jackson Lewis!

Washington Latin PCS

Your family and village looks forward to the amazing contributions you will make in the future!

CONGRATS!

Your hard work and perseverance have paid off.

We wish you the best of luck in your next chapter!

– The Hill Rag Staff

S chool N otes

by Susan Braun Johnson

Northeast Stars

The Northeast Stars Montessori students recently worked with Montessori Thermic Tablets which are a sensorial material that is designed to isolate and refine a child’s thermic sense or sense of temperature. The Thermic Tablets material consists of a wooden box containing six pairs of tablets made of different materials. The materials of the tablets are typically as follows: cork (warmest) glass, felt, wood, steel, slate (coolest).

Northeast Stars Montessori Preschool, 1325 Maryland Ave NE; nestars.net

Payne

Payne families and community had a beautiful sunny day for their yearly Spring Car-

the Little Mermaid to sing a few songs, and for a jazz combo from DC Strings to perform. Kids were excited to get their faces painted, play games for prizes, or visit the reptile booth. Thanks to Engine 8 for bringing the fire truck, and for all of the community members who make this event a success every year!

Payne, 1445 C St SE, www.paynedc.org

Van Ness – Otters Meet Reptiles!

Prekindergarten students at Van Ness Elementary School reach out to pet a Giant Tegu Lizard from South America.

The highlight of this “at-school” field trip, Reptile Guys brought a collection of snakes, turtles, lizards, and other animals to the school to teach these young students about some amazing creatures.

Van Ness,1150 5th St SE, www.vannesselementary.org

Stuart-Hobson

Principal Fraser and students bike to school on Bike to School Day.

Stuart-Hobson, 410 E St NE, www.stuart-hobson.org

nival. The children enjoyed sliding down the water slide and dunking their friends in the dunk tank. The DJ played the kids’ favorite hits, with breaks for Ariel from

Waterfront Academy

May 3 was Bike to School Day at Waterfront Academy. Students dressed up for school spirit in Waterfront Academy shirts and

payne

Van Ness

Stuart-Hobson

when they arrived, the teachers had treats and surprises in store for riders.

ANNUAL 2023

Location: Maury Elementary

1250 Constitution Ave. N.E

JULY 5 – AUGUST 4

Children Ages 3-10

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

Kids love us; parents trust us. Discover the difference that Polite Piggy’s makes.

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.

2023 SUMMER CAMP FEES

Full Day: $79 per Day          $395 per week

Half Day: $59 per Day         $295 per week

Sibling Discount: 20% discount for each child after the first. $185 per week scholarship rate

NON-REFUNDABLE REGISTRATION FEE (PER CHILD):

Three weeks or more: $150 Two weeks or less: $75

P.S. We forgot to mention there are weekly water play sessions and plenty of popsicles! QUESTIONS:

Waterfront Academy, 222 M St. SW; waterfrontacademy.org

Maury

Honor Chorus is an opportunity for students in 4th and 5th grade to perform with students from across the District. Under the direction of

music teacher, Kaylee Mina, Maury’s eleven members met weekly, before school, to practice their singing technique and memorize the songs. The grand finale was a performance on May 5, on stage at THEARC.

Maury, 1250 Constitution Ave. NE, www.mauryelementary.com

DC Prep

DC Prep is proud to be one of the oldest and largest high-performing public charter school networks in our nation’s capital, celebrating 20 years of excellence! Home to two Na-

tional Blue Ribbon Schools and recognized globally as a Cognia School of Distinction, DC Prep is an award-winning, collegeprep program, serving students in PK3-8th grade. Now accepting applications for SY23-24! DC Prep, 2330 Pomeroy Rd, SE; www.dcprep.org

Miner Students, staff, and families from Miner Elementary School joined their friends from other Capitol Hill Schools to participate in Bike and Roll to School Day. The Miner Cheerleading Squad, pictured here, performed a routine to kick off the fun neighborhood event.

Miner, 601 15th St NE; minerelementary.org

Rocketship

Ms. Silva (Rocketship Rise), Ms. Drew (Rocketship Legacy Prep), Sean Floyd (Dir. of External Affairs), and Ms. Princess (Rocketship Infinity) represented Rocketship DC on May 8 at an event hosted at the U.S. Department of Education by the Center for Black Educator Development (CBED). In partnership with the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity for Black Americans and the National Black Teacher Pipeline Coalition, the event celebrated the power and impact of Black educators.

www.rocketshipschools.org/area/washington-dc/ Infinity Community Prep Campus, 5450 3rd St NE, Legacy Prep Campus,4250 Massachusetts Ave SE, Rise Academy Campus, 2335 Raynolds Place SE u

DC Prep

Waterfront Academy

Maury

Miner

Rocketship

Kids & Family

ANACOSTIA PARK SKATING PAVILION WELCOMES YOU

Roller skate rental is available from Memorial Day to Labor Day, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Rentals are free with a government issued ID. Socks are required to rent skates. On “Late Skate” Saturdays, June 24, July 29, Aug. 26, Sept. 30 and Oct. 28; skate until 10 p.m. and enjoy the featured DJ. Events last throughout the day and include double dutch, lawn games, job

boat trips and more. nps.gov/anac.

STEAM SATURDAYS AT THE NATIONAL BUILDING MUSEUM

Spend the second Saturday of each month, from 1 to 3 p.m., learning through play with the National Building Museum’s STEAM Saturday activities. Participants can explore hands-on activities designed to spark curiosity in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, or Math. Each activity adds a new challenge to test their problem-solving skills. Through facilitated individual and group building challenges, children ages eight to fourteen will use LEGO brick challenge kits and real-life materials to explore how engineering and technology are helping to shape and construct the world around us. Children will have the opportunity to bring their ideas to life virtually using Autodesk’s Future Communities technology. $15 per child. The National Building Museum is at 401 F St. NW. nbm.org.

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG AT THE KC

What would happen if Sherlock Holmes and Monty Python had an illegitimate Broadway baby? You’d get New York and London’s award-winning smash comedy. This classic murder mystery by award-winning Mischief is chock-full of mishaps and madcap mania. Welcome to opening night of The Murder at Haversham Manor, where things are quickly going from bad to utterly disastrous. With an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can’t play dead, and actors who trip over everything (including their lines), it’s sure to bring down the house. The Play That Goes Wrong, at the Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater from July 20 to Aug. 13, is recommended for ages eight and up. $39 to $139. Kennedy-center.org.

night spent on the river? Anacostia Riverkeeper’s Friday Night Fishing program is a free, family-friendly, learn-to-fish program. It takes place along the Navy Yard on the Anacostia each summer. Open to all ages. ARK and partner Earth Conservation Corps provide everything you need for you and your family to learn how to fish in

a fun and educational environment. The 2023 season takes place Friday nights from June 23 to Aug. 25, 5 to 8 p.m., at the Diamond Teague Park Recreation Dock. Anacostia Riverkeeper provides fishing gear, safety vests, and a mini demo on fishing, fishing safety and fun facts about the fish in the river. Adults need DC fishing licenses to actively fish. Registration is recommended via the Anacostia Riverkeeper Eventbrite page. Bring water to drink. anacostiariverkeeper.org/ friday-night-fishing.

Photo: Courtesy of Anacostia Riverkeeper

2022 Halloween Late Skate.

Photo: Kelsey Graczyk

by Kathleen Donner

(L-R): Bartley Booz, Brent Bateman, Jesse Aaronson (falling), Ashley N. Hildreth, Sid Solomon, Ellie MacPherson, Damien Brett, Laura D’Andre, Ryan Vincent Anderson, Chris Lanceley (on couch), Matt Harrington, and Maggie Weston. Photo: Jeremy Daniel, 2021

fairs,

Thursday Art Cart at the Hirshhorn

Want to make art inspired by your favorite Hirshhorn works on view? The Art Cart offers young artists a hands-on maker experience during their visit to the Hirshhorn. Each week’s Art Cart offers a fresh and fun theme featuring artwork on view, an artmaking activity to do at the Museum, and kids’ projects to extend the fun at home. The Art Cart is free; no registration required. Drop in any Thursday between 10 a.m. and noon. The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden is at Independence Avenue and Seventh Street SW. hirshhorn.si.edu.

NMAAHC Juneteenth Community Day

On Saturday, June 17, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., visitors can celebrate the history, art and culture of Juneteenth at NMAAHC with several wonderful events at the annual Community Day. They can explore the gifts of gardening and the culinary arts, listen to stories and music and discover an inner artist with crafts for all ages. They can visit the museum’s galleries, grounds and Sweet Home Café to learn more about this historic holiday with indoor and outdoor programming. All programs are free, but registration is required for indoor activities. Registration permits entry to events at the museum throughout the day. nmaahc.si.edu/events/series/juneteenthpublic-programs.

Juneteenth Family Day at the National Archives

On Saturday, June 17, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., celebrate Juneteenth—the annual holiday commemorating the end of legal slavery in the United States—with family-friendly art-making and activities. Come see the official handwritten General Order No. 3 and learn about Arlington’s Freedman’s Village with educators from the National Archives Museum and Arlington National Cemetery. All ages welcome. National Archives, 700 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. archives.gov. nmaahc. si.edu/events/series/Juneteenthpublic programs.

Barbecue Battle Family

Four Pack

This year, the Giant National Capitol Barbecue Battle is on Saturday, June 24, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday, June 25, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., on Pennsylvania Avenue between Third and Seventh, NW. The $60 Family Four Pack is good for four adult admissions; kids 12 and under enter free. Single adult admission is $20. Admission includes live musical entertainment, free food samples (while supplies last), children’s activities, cooking demonstrations, celebrity chefs, interactive exhibits and more. All four attendees must enter at the same time. bbqdc.com.

Three DPR Outdoor Kids’ Swimming Pools

Happy Hollow Children’s Pool at 2200 Champlain St. NW; Park View Children’s Pool at 693 Otis Pl. NW; and Lincoln Capper Children’s Pool  at 555 L St. SE, are open Wednesdays through Sundays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and are closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Additionally, Park View and Lincoln Capper close from 2 to 3 p.m. All DPR outdoor pools are

open on weekends only through Sunday, June 25. dpr.dc.gov/outdoorpools.

Squirt Zone at the Zoo

From July 1 to Sept. 30, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., weather permitting, kids can cool off at the National Zoo’s splash pad play area. Push the green button to activate misters and fountains that spray water high into the air. This wheelchair accessible play area is modeled after a tide pool and features sea stars, barnacles and mussels. The water is for splashing, not for drinking. Children must be supervised by an adult. Young children must wear diapers at all times. nationalzoo.si.edu.

Sunday Play Date at MLK Library

On Sundays, 2 to 3 p.m., come to MLK Library, 901 G St. NW, for an hour of unstructured play in the

Innovations in Flight Outdoor Aviation Display

On Saturday, June 17, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., see unique aircraft, flown in for one day only, at this annual event at the Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA. Explore the engineering and design innovations that have taken place during the last century of flight. Talk with pilots of vintage and modern aircraft, on display outside the Museum for one day only. Free (parking, $15) but registration required. Check website for updates, weather, etc. airandspace.si.edu/whats/innovations-flight.

Children’s Room. They’ll provide materials like blocks and props. Kids can have fun and meet some new friends. Recommended age is three, plus. dclibrary.org/mlk.

Portrait Gallery Kids

Mondays, June 5 through Aug. 28, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., children and families are invited to learn, play and create at the National Portrait Gallery. Join educators as you explore a variety of topics, such as colors, emotions, STEM and history. Through close looking at art, hands-on activities, music and movement, Portrait Gallery Kids o ers a fun way to engage with art and each other. For kids of all ages. Free; no Registration Required. National Portrait Gallery, Eighth and G streets. NW. npg.si.edu.

Seussical: The Musical at the Keegan

A fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza for all ages, Seussical: The Musical lovingly brings to life all of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters, including Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, lazy Mayzie and a little boy with a big imagination--Jojo. The musical adventure tests the powers of friendship, loyalty, family, and community. Seussical: The Musical is at the Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church St. NW, from June 17 to July 22. $25 to $65. keegantheatre.com.

Saturday Morning Live! at the National Fun takes center stage at the National Theatre for Saturday Morning Live. Kids are invited

ApplyNow for9thGrade LimitedspacesinGrades10–12

IDEA offers innovative, diverse opportunities:

• Unique career-focused course offerings such as construction and design, business entrepreneurship, early childhood education, urban agriculture, graphic design, and computer programming

• Dual enrollment through the DC Dual Enrollment Consortium, enabling scholars to earn college credit in high school, and personalized college and career counseling

• Low teacher-student ratio and small class sizes which give students more opportunities to interact with teachers one on one

• Targeted interventions and student-centered support such as afterschool tutoring, Twilight program, SAT prep, and community service opportunities

• Strong staff accessibility, weekly and monthly parent newsletters, bi-weekly parent town hall meetings, and monthly grade-level town hall meetings for students

Congratulations to the Class of 2023, who have secured college scholarships, placed in notable academic and entrepreneurial competitions, secured career paths by landing internships and apprenticeships, and forged a solid path for themselves into the future.

PHOTO CONTEST!

CATEGORIES:

• Best Overall Photos

• Darling Dogs

• Finest Felines

• Cleverest Caption

• Best Buddies

• Human & Pet Best Buddies

• Hill Haunts

Send us your favorite pet photos for a chance at fame! Winning entries will be published in the July Hill Rag, our Special Pet Issue, and on our website at hillrag.com

TO ENTER: Email to pets@hillrag.com OR mail to PO BOX 15477 Washington, DC 20003 (make sure your photo is over 300 DPI, photos cannot be returned)

• Maximum of two photos per entry. Include your name, a phone number, the name of your pet, a caption and category for the photo.

DEADLINE: 6/17/23

PUBLICATION DATE: 7/1/23

to the Helen Hayes Gallery space 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. On July 8, see Arco Iris by Arts on the Horizon. Iris is excited about going to el parque with Abuela, but she has a hard time deciding what color shirt to wear. Together they explore the different ways colors appear in the world and each color’s unique beauty. Told through vibrant imagery, dynamic movement, and a beautiful soundscape, this sensory-rich production is inspired by a Zapoteca myth and Quechua legends about the rainbow. Best enjoyed by ages three to six. Free, but register in advance. Walk-up tickets are subject to availability. 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. nationaltheatre.org/saturday-morning-live.

Pop-Up Stargazing at Air and Space

On June 29, 8:30 to 10 p.m., join the Air and Space Museum staff on the sidewalk outside the entrance to the National Mall Building on Independence Avenue and see the wonders of the night sky. Experienced people will help you to observe a variety of things, including planets, stars, and the Moon. Stargazing is free and open to the public, no tickets required. The event is weather dependent. For lastminute updates, call the Astronomy Education number at 202633-2517. airandspace.si.edu.

Children’s Carnival at Scotland Juneteenth Heritage Festival

Celebrating the past and present of the first places African-Americans owned land in Montgomery County, the Scotland community of Potomac, Md., has expanded their annual Scotland Juneteenth Heritage Festival for 2023. Now featuring a children’s carnival (open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.), music performances, art exhibitions, food,

sports, and presentations on Black history. The events for the federal holiday on Monday, June 19, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. will be spread across the Cabin John Regional Park, Cabin John Village, and the Scotland community on Seven Locks Road. The festival will also include an interfaith and social action pavilion; a health and wellness pavilion; food court; classic auto show; 5k and fun run; music stage; baseball, art pavilion and film festival. juneteenthscotland.org.

I Am Beautiful! Teen Portrait Showcase/ Contest

The Smithsonian National Museum of African Art invited young people across the DMV to submit their original art for this year’s theme is “I am Beautiful”. Teens ages 15-19 were encouraged to explore beauty in individuality. Caleb Patterson of Duke Ellington School of the Arts was named grand winner. Agyei Allrich of NationHouse Homeschool Support Program won first place. Mandichera Hargrove, also of Nation-

Disney’s The Lion King at the KC

House Homeschool Support Program won second place. Alex Mendez-Santana of Duke Ellington School of the Arts won third place. See their work at https://africa.si.edu/education/i-ambeautiful-teen-portrait-showcase-contest/

Cool (outdoor) Concerts for Kids at Strathmore

On Thursdays at 7 p.m., enjoy free kids’ performances on the lawn at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD. Here’s the summer lineup: July 13, Falu’s Bazaar--Trilingual celebration of diversity for young audiences; July 20, Sonia de los Santos--Interactive Latin music for the whole family; July 27, Fyutch--Empowering youth through hip-hop; Aug. 3, Dan and Claudia Zanes--Sensory-friendly, subversively educational dance party. strathmore.org.

Young at Arts at Wolf Trap

More than 100 million people around the world have experienced the phenomenon of Disney’s The Lion King, and now you can, too, when Washington, DC’s best-loved musical returns to the Kennedy Center on June 21 to July 29. Winner of six Tony Awards including Best Musical, this landmark features some of Broadway’s most recognizable music crafted by Tony-winning artists Elton John and Tim Rice. Recommended for ages six and up. Tickets are $39 to $169. kennedy-center.org.

Wolf Trap has made taking your family to performances more affordable with Young at Arts, an initiative that invites families and caregivers to introduce children to the joy of the performing arts. For around the cost of taking your family to the movies you can now attend live performing arts events. Young at Arts allows ticket buyers to receive one free youth (17 and under) ticket for each accompanying adult ticket purchased. Young at Arts tickets are available online or in person at the Wolf Trap Box Office. Select tickets are available in-house in the rear orchestra and on the lawn. Read more at wolftrap. org/about/ticket-information/ young-at-arts.

Semper Fi Father’s 10k, 5k and Kids’ Run

On June 18, 9 to noon, the Semper Fi Father’s 10k, 5k and Kids’ Run is at Mason Neck State Park, 7301 High Point Rd., Lorton, VA. Enjoy this scenic,

Gugwana Dlamini as Rafiki. Photo: Joan Marcus

flat 5k/10k that runs along a bike path through Mason Neck State Park. Start times are 9 a.m., 10k ($55); 9:15 a.m., 5k ($35); and 9:15 kids’ one-miler ($20). There is race day registration. Arrive one hour prior to race start. bishopsevents.com/event/2023-semperfi-fathers-5k-10k-1m.

DinoRock at Glen Echo

For 40 years, DinoRock has performed for millions of children nationwide and has sold over 100,000 award-winning origi -

nal audio recordings around the world. A generation has grown up singing along with their life-sized, colorful prehistoric friends, the creations of Emmy Award-Winning puppet designer Ingrid Crepeau and Parents’ Choice Magazine Award Winner Michele Valeri. The show runs from June 1 to July 9; Thursdays and Fridays at 10:30 a.m.; Saturdays and Sundays, 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

It is recommended for ages five, up. $15; free for under age two. DinoRock is at Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen

Echo, MD. Other upcoming shows are Beauty and the Beast, July 20 to Aug. 20; Magic Mirror, Aug. 31 to Sept. 17. thepuppetco.org.

The World & Me: Pollinator Celebration with Mister G

On Sunday, June 25, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., the National Museum of Natural History is partnering with the US Forest Service and USDA for a morning celebrating pollinators and learning about our connections to pollinators and plants with interactive activities and a concert with MISTER G. The schedule of events is 10 to 10:55 a.m. and 11:55 a.m. to 12: 30 p.m., hands-on activities and learning stations; and 11 to 11:50 a.m., concert with Mister G. This program is held in Q?rius, the Coralyn W. Whitney Science Education Center, on the ground floor of the museum. Enter through the Constitution Avenue entrance. Q?rius is located on the right. The program is free but registration is required at naturalhistory.si.edu/events/world-me-pollinator-celebration-mister-g.

Home Rule Music Festival Family Day

On Sunday, June 25, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., The Home Rule Music Festival, on June 16, 17 and 24, is a celebration of DC’s rich and vibrant music and culture. This year, the festival continues on Saturday, June 17, 1 to 9 p.m., with a special day of free family-friendly music at the Parks at Walter Reed, entrance at 1000 Butternut St. NW. The day will include an outdoor record fair, food trucks, craft brews from Anxo, local vendors, and a full afternoon of live music from Brian Jackson, E.U. feat. Sugar Bear, Kahil El’Zabar, Doug Carn with the Home Rule Band, Mark Meadows & The Movement, The Experience Band & Show, and DJ Aquarian. homerulemusicfestival.com.

The Great Zucchini

The Great Zucchini is an award-winning preschool and kindergarten children’s entertainer who has been a staple in the DC metro area for over 25 years. He performs his hands-on, interactive magic shows for more than 700 groups a year. He will be at Eastern Market Metro Plaza Park, 701 Pennsylvania Ave, SE on Saturday, June 3, Sunday, July 2 and Saturday, Sept. 9, from 10:30 a.m. to noon. barracksrow.org. u

EXTRA CREDIT!

In concert with the Capitol Hill Classic, students of the Capitol Hill Cluster School participated in a pledge drive earning over $30,000 for the school. Pictured here are some of the top student fundraisers. Left to right - back row Grey Hallums, Cameron Lowe, Khaliel Burton, Mina Ozturk, Natalie Bucks, Hazel Hanger, and Charlie Hanger. Front Row - Caroline Lowe, Amari Bailey, Amani Walker, Julia Hunter and Zora Haughton.

Photo: Mayita Mendez

Photo: Nick Moreland

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.

One of our small offices is available on the third floor of our ADA-accessible building. The space comes with reception services at the front entrance of the building; shared access to a staff kitchenette; a Conference Room furnished with a table and chairs that will accommodate 14+ individuals; an informal seating or “huddle” space; and toilet facilities. Utilities and internet connectivity are included in the monthly use fee of $1,080. Interested parties may email info@ hillcenterdc.org.

CROSSWORD A Tale of Eleven Cities

by Myles Mellor

Look

Down:

1.

3.

5.

7.

23. Encircle

24. When a plane is due in: Abbr. 29. ___ lobe 33. Gasteyer of “Mean Girls” 34. Maze animal

Deighton

55. African tourist trip

57. ___ the Barbarian

61. Observer

62. Barters

63. “Uh-uh!”

64. Intense anger

65. California University football team

67. V.I.P.’s opposite 68. Wedding 69. Dissed, in a way

71. Ancient cross

72. Berlioz’s “Les nuits d’___”

75. BLT alternative

77. Aspiring atty.’s exam

78. Winter comment

79. Pack ___ (quit)

80. Tea in English slang

82. Yemen city

83. Tony Blair’s old job

84. Parisian water

85. Diner sandwich

86. International Bollywood star (last name)

89. It may be picked

90. Ref’s call

91. Target

93. Stop running

94. Tamandua tidbit

95. Most unsightly

97. Coal mine entrance

98. Collection agcy.

102. Kind of story

105. Five or ten, e.g.

107. Yawns

109. Comic Johnson

110. Constellation

112. Linguist Chomsky

113. Birdie score, often 114. Estimator

115. Populous Japanese city

118. Cinematographer Nykvist

119. To boot

120. Moby’s mouth

121. Eastern sash

122. Humanities degs.

123. Suffix with Israel

124. Guitar master Paul

126. Spoon bender

ENTE R THE ANNUAL

PET

PHOTO CONTEST!

CATEGORIES:

• Best Overall Photos

• Darling Dogs

• Finest Felines

• Cleverest Caption

• Best Buddies

• Human & Pet Best Buddies

• Hill Haunts

Send us your favorite pet photos for a chance at fame! Winning entries will be published in the July Hill Rag, our Special Pet Issue, and on our website at hillrag.com

TO ENTER:

Email to pets@hillrag.com OR mail to PO BOX 15477 Washington, DC 20003 (make sure your photo is over 300 DPI, photos cannot be returned)

• Maximum of two photos per entry. Include your name, a phone number, the name of your pet, a caption and category for the photo.

DEADLINE: 6/17/23

PUBLICATION DATE: 7/1/23

Long-time Capitol Hill resident Stuart Long was an attorney at the Library of Congress and a real estate developer and investor, but most folks will remember him as co-owner of the original Hawk and Dove restaurant from 1967 until 2011. Long liked to point out that as an anti-Vietnam war activist who went to law school to avoid the draft, he was the Dove of Hawk and Dove. Read Long’s memories of Capitol Hill at CapitolHillHistory.org. Help preserve Capitol Hill history by becoming a volunteer.

Photo by Lis Wackman

Traditional Capitol Homes!

1100 E St, NE.

Richly Enhanced Corner Wardman w/ New Island

Kitchn w/ Firplace, Formal LR & DR w/ Glass Doors, 3 BR (1 an offer, now) & 2 designer baths. LL has Legal AirBnB unit makes $30K last yr. PLUS 4 Car Parking; On Demand HWH, CAC, Radiator

$ 2,347,890.00

1200 East Capitol, NE Views of Lincoln Park, enhance Historic Condo

“The Fairfax.” Ground Floor Unit w/ 1411 sf, 5 Pocket drs, 3 mantles, 1 woodburning fireplace. Modern Kitchen, Stone & Stainless, & 1.5 designer baths. Inlaid Floors, Coffered Ceilings, Wainscoting, 7 panel doors!

$987,000

COMING SOON 534 Oklahoma Ave, NE

Porchfront w/ 3 lvls, Parking, Huge Enclosed Patio. 2 Full Bedrooms, 2 baths, New kitchen & appliances, 2 car parking, New HVAC, refinished floors, and More!

$600K