Hill Rag Magazine – March 2022 by Capital Community News

hillrag.com . March 2022

Brokerage

•

Development

•

Investments

CO U N ND TR E AR CT

For All Things Real Estate, Call Formant

@formantpropertygroup

formantpropertygroup.com

WE HAVE MOVED! 406 H Street NE Washington, DC 20002 202.544.3900

1124 Morse St. NE

Trinidad Development Site Mike Formant 202-577-3027

707 8th St. NE

4BR, 3.5BA with Basement Unit! Listed $1,325,000 Steps from H St. Fern Pannill 240-508-4856

March 2022 H 3

at Compass

DC's Father & Son Real Estate Experts 60+ Combined Years | Neighbors For Life | Your Local Realtors

202.841.SOLD (7653) TheBisseyTeam@compass.com 660 Pennsylvania Ave, SE Washington, DC 20003 | 202.545.6900 at Compass nformation is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. Compass is licensed as Compass Real Estate in DC and as Compass in Virginia and Maryland. 660 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Suite , Washington, DC 20003 | 202.545.6900

Your Fallsmead Real Estate Experts |

405 Quackenbos Washington, $879,000 Residents Since 1971St,| NW, Neighbor For DC Life 4BR/3.5BA | Your Local Realtors

202.841.SOLD (7653) TheBisseyTeam@compass.com 660 Pennsylvania Ave, SE Washington, DC 20003 | 202.545.6900

Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. Compass is licensed as Compass Real Estate in DC and as Compass in Virginia and Maryland. 660 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Suite 401, Washington, DC 20003 | 202.545.6900

4 ★ HILLRAG.COM

March 2022 ★ 5

IN THIS ISSUE MARCH 2022

HOMES

& GARDENS

Stained Glass: Tradition Lives On by Rindy O’Brien

It’s March!: The Beekeepers’ Busy Season by Rindy O’Brien

Exposing Interior Brick Walls by Abigail Sekely

Gardening Partnership Helps Youth Bloom on Barracks Row: Guerrilla Gardeners Offers Internship To Sasha Bruce Youth–And You Can Help by Elizabeth O’Gorek

Dear Garden Problem Lady, by Wendy Blair

Recycling: From Blue Bins to Uncertainty

It’s March!: The Beekeepers’ Busy Season

Taking Care of Your Roof by Tom Daniel

Changing Hands by Don Denton

by Mark R. Smith

by Rindy O’Brien

Advertisers Listings

95 10

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

CALENDAR

capitol streets

Comedy Standup at Hamilton’s on Capitol Hill

How One Wellness Business Thrives Despite COVID

by Sarah Payne

by Pattie Cinelli

Recycling: From Blue Bins to Uncertainty – Part One of a Four-Part Spotlight DC Investigation by Mark R. Smith

Our River: The Anacostia – Buzzard Point: What Can We Expect? by Bill Matuszeski

Capitol Hill Community Achievement Awardees 2022 by Stephanie Deutsch

Tom Rall Says Farewell to Eastern Market by Elizabeth O’Gorek

In Memorium: Robert Louis Staples – Furniture and Museum Exhibition Designer by Barbara Fahs Charles

Ward 6 ANC Redistricting Plans – ANC 6A Report by Nick L. Alberti

Dealing With Modern Materials on Historic Buildings – ANC 6B Report by Elizabeth O’Gorek

Delayed DDOT Response to ANC Concerns – ANC 6C Report by Elizabeth O’Gorek

807 Maine Avenue SW Unveiled – ANC 6D Report by Andrew Lightman

Bulletin Board by Kathleen Donner

arts and dining 85

Comedy Standup at Hamilton’s on Capitol Hill by Sarah Payne

At the Movies by Mike Canning

Art and The City by Jim Magner

Literary Hill by Karen Lyon

Poetic Hill by Karen Lyon

family life 95

How One Wellness Business Thrives Despite COVID by Pattie Cinelli

The District Vet: Oops! The Dog Just Ate My Stash! by Dan Teich, DVM

100

School Notes by Susan Braun Johnson

104

Notebook by Kathleen Donner

110

CLASSIFIEDS

114

CROSSWORD

on the cover: Alan Braley – Ribbons of Light 20x24” Enamel on Wood, 2021. From the 2022 Regional Juried Exhibit at The Hill Center Galleries. See more at www.hillcenterdc.org/galleries/ or visit Hill Center at 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, 202.549.4172. Available for purchase at hillcenterdc.org/galleries

Next Issue: April 2

Capital Community News, Inc. Publisher of: MIDCITY

F A G O N

GUIDE TO CAPITOL HILL

FAGON

EDUCATION

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Capital Community News, Inc. PO Box 15477, Washington, DC 20003 202.543.8300 • www.capitalcommunitynews.com • www.hillrag.com EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Melissa Ashabranner • melissa.ashabranner@gmail.com

Editorial Staﬀ

M�� E��: Andrew Lightman • andrew@hillrag.com C�� F�� O��: Maria Carolina Lopez • carolina@hillrag.com E�� R��: Elizabeth O’Gorek • liz@hillrag.com K�� F�� E��: Kathleen Donner • kathleendonner@gmail.com Intern: Sarah Payne • sarah@hillrag.com

Arts, Dining & Entertainment A��:

D��: L��: M��: M��: T��: W�� G��:

Jim Magner • jjmagner@aol.com Phil Hutinet • phutinet@yahoo.com Celeste McCall • cmccall20003@gmail.com Karen Lyon • klyon@literaryhillbookfest.org Mike Canning • mjcanning@verizon.net Jean-Keith Fagon • fagon@hillrag.com Stephen Monroe • steve@jazzavenues.com Barbara Wells • barchardwells@aol.com Elyse Genderson • elyse@cellar.com

Calendar & Bulletin Board

C�� E��: Kathleen Donner • calendar@hillrag.com, bulletinboard@hillrag.com

General Assignment

Stephanie Deutsch • scd@his.com Tom Daniel • tom@rthomasdanielrooﬁng.com Michelle Phipps-Evans • invisiblecolours@yahoo.com Maggie Hall • whitby@aol.com Pleasant Mann • pmann1995@gmail.com Meghan Markey • meghanmarkey@gmail.com William Matuszeski • bmat@primary.net Elizabeth O’Gorek • Liz@hillrag.com Virginia Avniel Spatz • virginia@hillrag.com Michael G. Stevens • michael@capitolriverfront.org Peter Waldron • peter218@prodigy.net

Beauty, Health & Fitness

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

Kids & Family

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

Homes & Gardens

Derek Thomas • derek@thomaslandscapes.com Catherine Plume • caplume@yahoo.com Rindy 0’Brien • rindyobrien@gmail.com

Commentary

editorial@hilllrag.com

Production/Graphic/Web Design

A�� D��: Jason Yen • jay@hillrag.com Graphic Design: Shawn Henderson • shawn@hillrag.com W�� M��: Andrew Lightman • andrew@hillrag.com

Advertising & Sales

Account Executive: Kira Means, 202.543.8300 X16 • kira@hillrag.com Account Executive & Classiﬁed Advertising: Maria Carolina Lopez, 202.543.8300 X12 • Carolina@hillrag.com Account Executive: Mariana Heavey, 202-400-3507 • Mariana@hillrag.com

Distribution

M��: Andrew Lightman D��: MediaPoint, LLC I��: distribution@hillrag.com

Deadlines & Contacts

A��: sales@hillrag.com D�� A��: 15th of each month C�� A��: 10th of each month E��: 15th of each month; editorial@hilllrag.com B�� B�� C��: 15th of each month; calendar@hillrag.com, bulletinboard@hillrag.com

Real Estate

Don Denton • DDenton@cbmove.com Heather Schoell • heathersdo@gmail.com

We welcome suggestions for stories. Send queries to andrew@hillrag.com. We are also interested in your views on community issues which are published in the Last Word. Please limit your comments to 250 words. Letters may be edited for space. Please include your name, address and phone number. Send Last Word submissions to lastword@hillrag.com. For employment opportunities email jobs@hillrag.com. 8 ★ HILLRAG.COM

SAVE! SAVE! SAVE! Re

bat

10% OFF

SEU

Ava i

lab

$25 OFF

LIST PRICE ON ANY EQUIPMENT INSTALLATIONS *Exp.3/31/2022

Any Service Call *Exp.3/31/2022

18 Month, 0% Interest Financing

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

Specializing in:

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

202-333-1310

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

All Credit Cards Accepted March 2022 ★ 9

CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL PARADE

The National Cherry Blossom Parade is on Saturday, April 9, at 10 a.m. The energy-filled Parade runs for 10 blocks along Constitution Avenue NW, from Seventh to Seventeenth. Grand colorful helium balloons, elaborate floats, marching bands from across the country, celebrity entertainers, and performers burst down the Parade route in a spectacle of music and showmanship. Portions of the parade are free to the public to view along the route and are first-come, first-served. Reserved grandstand seating in the performance areas of the Parade are available for purchase at $25 to $40. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/.

WHAT’S ON W A S H I N G T O N

BEDOUINE AT THE MIRACLE THEATER

Singer-songwriter Azniv Korkian, known by her stage name Bedouine, is an Aleppo-born Syrian-American musician. She has a unique sound—’60s folk meets ’70s country-funk with a glimmer of bossa nova cool—the guitar picking and precise lyrical excursions, that mesmerizing voice and phrasing. Her ﬁrst album “Bedouine” was released in 2017; the second “Birdsongs of a Killjoy” in 2019. Bedouine released her third full-length album ”Waysides” on October 22, 2021. She appears at The Miracle Theater, 535 Eighth St. SE, on Sunday, April 3, 8 p.m. (doors at 7 p.m.). $18. unionstage.com.

Photo: Ayanah George

ANACOSTIA RIVER FESTIVAL

The Anacostia River Festival, Sunday, April 10, 1 to 4 p.m., is a premier event of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. The eighth annual Festival is a celebration of the Anacostia River, Anacostia Park and the neighborhood. Musical performances honor the history and sounds of communities on both sides of the river and amplifying the stories, culture, and heritage of neighboring African American residents. Enjoy the sights and sounds of Go-Go music, local drum lines, and military bands. Guests will be socially distanced through chalked “pods” to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The Festival, at Good Hope Rd. and Anacostia Dr. SE, will also feature pre-registered and socially distant river activities such as canoeing and ﬁshing. Visit bridgepark.org to register. 10 ★ HILLRAG.COM

ENVIRONMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL

Each March, Washington, DC hosts the largest environmental film festival in the world, presenting 100+ films to advance understanding and stewardship of the environment through the power of film. The festival is allvirtual again this year from March 17 to 27. Festival passes are now on sale. dceff.org. High Tide Don’t Hide. Photo: Niva Kay

March 2022 H 11

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

SAKURA MATSURI: JAPANESE STREET FESTIVAL

See, hear, taste, and experience Japan when you join Japan-America Society of Washington, DC on April 9, 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and/or Sunday, April 10, 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the 60th anniversary of the Sakura Matsuri-Japanese Street Festival. Held on Pennsylvania Ave. NW, between Third and Seventh, it is the largest celebration of Japanese culture in the United States and is the grand finale of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Every year, performers, artists, and restaurants travel here from across the country and around the world to share their love of Japanese culture and traditions with the Festival attendees. In 2022, the festival will be held over for two days for the first time. $10 admission. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org.

Sakura Matsuri: Japanese Street Festival is produced by Japan-America Society of Washington DC.

On Thursday, March 31, 7 p.m. and Friday, April 1, 8 p.m., 2019 Kennedy Center Honoree Michael Tilson Thomas conducts Mahler’s rousing, fivemovement “Resurrection” Symphony. A champion interpreter of Mahler’s work, MTT has recorded all nine of the composer’s symphonies and major orchestral works—a feat earning him seven (of his 12) Grammy Awards. Since his close friend Leonard Bernstein famously conducted the symphony at Madison Square Garden’s “Night of Stars” memorial to President Kennedy, Mahler’s “Resurrection” has remained a poignant message of life, rebirth, and immortal triumph for the human soul. $15 to $99. kennedy-center.org.

MOSAIC THEATRE PRESENTS

In the not-too-distant future, Corbin has just been offered his dream job at an industryleading technology company. But there’s a catch. The terms of his employment stipulate that Corbin and his wife Georgia must both agree to round-the-clock monitoring and audio surveillance by Corbin’s potential employer. Will the threat of having their secrets exposed–especially to each other–be too much for their young marriage to survive? $50. “Private” is at the Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NW, from March 23 to April 17. mosaictheater.org. 12 H HILLRAG.COM

GLEN HANSARD AND MARKETA IRGLOVA OF THE SWELL SEASON

Glen Hansard is an Irish songwriter, actor, vocalist and guitarist for the Irish group The Frames, and one half of folk rock duo The Swell Season. He is known for his acting, having appeared in the BAFTA-winning film The Commitments, as well as starring in the film Once, which earned him a number of major awards, including the Academy Award for Best Original Song for “Falling Slowly”, with co-writer and costar Markéta Irglová. $55 to $125. Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova are at The Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW, on Friday, March 18, 7 p.m. (doors at 6 p.m.). theanthemdc.com.

COSI FAN TUTTE AT THE KENNEDY CENTER

Mozart’s comedy returns as charming as ever after it was postponed in the Kennedy Center’s 2020– 2021 season. A cast of opera’s rising international stars assembles to sing Mozart’s sublime music backed by an onstage orchestra, from the luminous “Soave sia il vento” trio to Fiordiligi’s determined “Come scoglio” aria. Don’t miss the moment puppet master Don Alfonso exerts unique control of the lovers with the help of Mozart! Everyone fools and everyone is fooled in this satirical romp. Are love’s strings more loosely attached than we’d like to admit? $69 to $200. NSO’s Cosi fan tutte is at the Kennedy Center from March 12 to 26. kennedycenter.org.

March 2022 H 13

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

THE MERCHANT OF VENICE AT SHAKESPEARE

John Douglas Thompson. Photo: Henry Grossman

Shakespeare’s remarkable exploration of justice returns to Washington, stoking the debate on what is right, what is fair, and what is lawful—and who gets to decide. Shakespeare’s most provocative problem play compels us to examine our own prejudices and the true nature of mercy. The Merchant of Venice is at the Michael R. Klein Theatre, 470 Seventh St. NW, from March 22 to April 17. shakespearetheatre.org.

CATCH ME IF YOU CAN AT ARENA

From March 4 to April 17, humor, music and dance drive this rousing musical based on true events and a critically acclaimed film. See how charming, young con man Frank Abagnale Jr. posed as an airline pilot, a lawyer and a doctor, and then escaped police custody, all before he turned 22. The Tony-nominated comedy is a high-flying musical roller coaster filled with glamour and delight for the entire family. $86 to $105. Arena Stage is at 1101 Sixth St. SW. arenastage.org.

NASA/USGS Landsat; Geoscience Australia

Composer Nolan Williams

GRACE AT FORD’S THEATER

Packed with an eclectic mix of styles including jazz, R&B, rousing up-tempos and raise-theroof ballads, Grace is an electrifying musical feast celebrating the perseverance of family and the power of traditions. Created by DC’s own celebrated composer Nolan Williams, Jr., Grace examines the little-told history of African-American culinary tradition and the challenges faced by Black-owned businesses. The musical captures a day in the life of the Mintons, a Philadelphia family who gather to mourn the loss of their matriarch and deal with the future of their family restaurant in a changing neighborhood. Heartfelt and hopeful, timely and timeless, Grace is the new American musical where, although family comes first, everyone has a seat at the table. Grace is at Ford’s Theatre, 511 10th St. NW, from March 18 to May 14. fords.org.

EYES ON EARTH: EXPLORING SPACE LECTURE SERIES

The 2022 Air and Space Exploring Space Lecture Series highlights work done in space today to better understand our shared history with our planet, from remote sensing, human observation, and exoplanet science searching for a new Earth. Here’s the schedule: March 29, 8 p.m.; NASA’s Earth Information System— Open and Accessible Science to Improve Life on Earth: April 20, 8 p.m.; Ancient Cities and Landscapes from Space--How Remote Sensing is Transforming Archaeology: May 18, 8 p.m.; Space2inspire--An Orbital Perspective of Earth as a Geoscientist, Artist, and Poet: and June 29, 8 p.m.; Earth, Exoplanets, and Everything in Between. Lectures are free and presented online and in person at the American Indian Museum. airandspace.si.edu/event-series/exploring-space-lectures.

14 H HILLRAG.COM

3BR/2.5 BATH - $4,400

2BR/3DEN/3BATH - $4,850

1403 G ST NE

228-A JUSTICE CT NE

250 MARYLAND AVE NE

1205 POTOMAC AVE SE

1103 E. CAPITOL ST NE #1

707 8TH ST NE

1BR/1BATH - $2,095

2BR/1.5 BATH - $2,400

Property management and leasing –

That is ALL we do.

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

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

1BR/1BATH - $2,100

1 BR/1BATH - $1,885

Michael Frias

Owner / Broker / Property Manager

406 H St. NE, Second Floor

(202) 355-6500

tiberrealtygroup.com Michael@tiberrealtygroup.com

Creating Success with Experience, Hard Work & Good Vibes! THE

GRANT, RYALL & ANDREW GROUP Team Direct: (202) 741-1654 grantryallandrew.com Coldwell Banker Realty 350 7th Street SE 20003 (202) 547-3525

2015-2021 March 2022 ★ 15

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

THE SERVANT OF TWO MASTERS AT SYNETIC

I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY CONCERT AT THE NATIONAL CATHEDRAL

In 1920, the right to vote was expanded under the Nineteenth Amendment to include women. One hundred and two yaears later, the Cathedral Choral Society explores what it means to have your voice heard. CCS has commissioned works from three of today’s leading women composers—Augusta Read Thomas, Lisa Bielawa, and Jessie Montgomery—that demonstrate the impact of speaking up and speaking out. The I Have Something to Say Concert, on Sunday, March 13 at 4 p.m., is part of weekend of events celebrating women’s voices. Tickets start at $25. cathedral.org. Photo: Courtesy of the Cathedral Choral Society

AN EVENING WITH ITZHAK PERLMAN

One of the world’s most respected violinists and music educators, Itzhak Perlman has reached out to new audiences throughout his career, from the Ed Sullivan Show in 1958 to Sesame Street in the 1980s to 2018’s duet with jazz pianist Jon Batiste on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. In An Evening with Itzhak Perlman, joined by master pianist and longtime collaborator Rohan De Silva, he treats a Washington Performing Arts audience to a unique and intimate window on his life and work through live performance, rarely seen home movies, and personal anecdotes from more than a half-century of music-making. $45 to $135. An Evening with Itzhak Perlman is at the Kennedy Center on Saturday, April 2, 8 p.m. kennedycenter.org. 16 H HILLRAG.COM

Mistaken identities, wily servants, and madcap antics abound in Synetic Theater’s laugh-a-minute tale of the ultimate trickster. Helmed by Vato Tsikurishvili and the Helen Hayes Award-nominated team from the 2019 hit Cyrano de Bergerac, The Servant of Two Masters is a raucous adaptation of Carlo Goldoni’s classic farce. $25 to $60. The Servant of Two Masters is at Synetic Theater, 1800 So. Bell St. in Crystal City from April 6 to 24. synetictheater.org.

MILK CARTON KIDS AT CAPITOL TURNAROUND

The Milk Carton Kids are an American indie folk duo, singers and guitarists Kenneth Pattengale and Joey Ryan, from Eagle Rock, California who began making music together in early 2011. The band has recorded and released six albums: Retrospect, Prologue, The Ash & Clay, Monterey, All the Things That I Did and All the Things That I Didn’t Do, and The Only Ones. They are noted for releasing their first two albums free of charge. The Milk Carton Kids are at the Capitol Turnaround, 770 M St. SE, on Friday, April 1, 8 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.). $35 to $45. capitalturnaround.com.

GUN VIOLENCE MEMORIAL PROJECT AT THE NATIONAL BUILDING MUSEUM

Nearly 40,000 Americans are killed by gun violence every year. To commemorate this staggering crisis, honor the lives of those taken, and raise awareness to help end the gun violence epidemic, the National Building Museum presents the Washington, DC debut of the Gun Violence Memorial Project. Free for all visitors to experience, it is at the National Building Museum, 401 F St. NW, through September 2022. nbm.org. Photo: Courtesy of Elman Studios

SIGN UP FOR YOUR FREE SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOP TODAY For existing and aspiring District businesses - the Small Business Resource Center is here for you!

WEBINAR: FIND FUNDING FOR YOUR BUSINESS Tuesday, March 1, 2022 2:00 pm Register: dcrasbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/57360

WEBINAR: LEARN HOW TO BECOME A CERTIFIED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (CBE) Thursday, March 3, 2022 10:00 am Register: dcrasbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/56492

WEBINAR: FOUNDATIONS FOR A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS: MODULE 2, THE BUSINESS MODEL CANVAS Thursday, March 10, 2022 2:00 pm Register: dcrasbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/56310

WEBINAR: DCRA AT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD LIBRARY – LEARN THE PROCESS OF STARTING A BUSINESS Tuesday, March 22, 2022 5:00 pm Register: dcrasbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/55581

WEBINAR: FOUNDATIONS FOR A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS: MODULE 3, THE BUSINESS PLAN Thursday, March 24, 2022 2:00 pm Register: dcrasbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/56320

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

March 2022 ★ 17

18 H HILLRAG.COM

r a d n e cal

c o mm u n i t y

CELEBRATING 70 YEARS

Brought to You By

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

Schneider's of Capitol Hill

Carpe Librum Used Book Sale. March 12, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Join Carpe Librum in the southern block of Canal Park, 200 M St. SW, for a pop-up socially distant, nonprofit used book sale. Browse through thousands of books under $6 in an outdoor setting. Additional dates are April 9, May 14, June 11 and 21 and July 9. capitolriverfront.org/canal-park. Shamrockfest. March 12, noon to 8 p.m. ShamrockFest is a massive St. Paddy’s Day festival, where thousands shake their shamrocks to a variety of current and nostalgic rock bands, beer flows strong and everyone is Irish for the day. RFK Stadium Parking Lot 8, 2400 East Capitol St. SE. shamrockfest.com. FOOD AS MEDICINE: A Virtual Cooking Class Connecting Health to Food. March 21, 6 p.m. The Capitol Hill Counseling and Resource Center introduces the “FOOD AS MEDICINE” series, an interactive virtual cooking class that connects health to food, led by nutritionist and wholistic health coach, Anelise Antunes. In this cooking class, you will explore our healthy hearts and the foods that can assist with maintaining this vital organ. Reserve your spot by Thursday, March 17 to receive the shopping list and general instructions on March 18. chcarc.org. Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon and 5k. March 26. The award-winning courses boast postcard worthy views of the most iconic monuments in the district such as the White House, the Capitol Building, the Lincoln Memorial and more. Both courses end at RFK. runrocknroll.com/washington-dc. Only at Congressional Guided Tour. April 2, 11 a.m. to noon. Take a guided tour of Congres-

DC United at Audi Field. March 12, 7:30 p.m. vs. Chicago; April 2, 7:30 p.m. vs. Atlanta; April 16, 7:30 p.m. vs. Austin; April 23, 7:30 p.m. vs. New England. Audi Field, 100 Potomac Ave. SW. dcunited.com. sional Cemetery, sharing the secrets and stories of this hidden gem. Among the 65,000 burials at Congressional are scores of noteworthy citizens who left their mark on the city and the nation. Find out more about their amazing stories. $5. Historic Congressional Cemetery, 1801 E St. SE. congressionalcemetery.org.

MARCH MIXED CASE SPECIAL!

Atlas Presents Furia Flamenca: Flamenco Passion and Soul. April 3, 4:30 p.m. Flamenco is a dance full of passion and fire. This show will present flamenco at its best in its traditional form showcasing solo and group dance performances recreating the environment of the more intimate “tablao” performances. $35. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. atlasarts.org.

7 Bold and Balanced Reds, 4 Delightfully Fresh Whites, 1 Springtime Rose. Retail Price: $308.88 Sale Price: $235.88 Mixed Case Club Price: $199.99 35% Off Retail!

Nat’s Home Opener. April 4, 1:05 p.m. vs. Phillies. Other April home games; April 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 18, 19 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 2, 27, and 28. mlb.com/nationals. Chiarina Chamber Players Concert. April 8, 7:30 p.m. Chiarina presents a recipe-inspired commission and world premiere by composer Carlos Simon for baritone and piano trio. Works by American composers H. Leslie Adams and Theofanidis complement Dvorák’s festive “Dumky” trio. $25 online; $30 at the door; $10 age 30, under. St. Mark’s, 301 A St. SE. chiarina.org. NSO at The Anthem: Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 5. April 8, 8 p.m. $15 to $30. The Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW. theanthemdc.com.

ExPats Theatre presents Christmas Eve. March 17 to April 10. This gripping thriller is set on Christmas Eve as a philosophy professor is stopped by a veteran law enforcement officer who accuses her of having planted a bomb that will explode at midnight. $20 to $40. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. atlasarts.org.

WINE. BEER. SPIRITS. TRADITION.

Market Madness Table Tennis Showdown. April 9, 2 to 6 p.m. Bring your poise, concentration, hand-eye coordination, lucky paddles and entourage as you progress through the brackets in hopes of taking home the 1st-place prize of Union Market District’s first-ever Table Tennis Showdown. This event is in partnership with DC Fray. Located at Neal Place, Union Market District. dcfray.com. u

VINTAGE

WINE

RETAIL

SALE

2019

Sant’Ilario Chianti

$19.99

$12.99

2020

El Cipres Malbec Correas

$15.99

$11.99

2018

Haut Selve Rouge

$24.99

$19.99

2018

Renzo Masi Chianti Riserv

$24.99

$16.99

2017

Domaine Boudau Clot Pila Les Cargolines

$16.99

$12.99

2018

Sparkman Cellars Wilderness Rhone Blend

$29.99

$19.99

2016

Buty “Rediviva of the Stones” Walla Walla Valley

$59.99

$49.99

2019

Conti Buneis Moscato d’Asti DOCG

$19.99

$14.99

2020

Zemmer Pinot Grigio

$19.99

$15.99

2018

De Lancellotti Sorella Vineyard Chardonnay

$34.99

$29.99

2020

Sant’Ilario Elume Rosato

$24.99

$19.99

2020

El Ciprés Torrontés Correas

$15.99

$9.99

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

March 2022 H 19

20 ★ HILLRAG.COM

Hill Rag

HOMES

spring GARDENS special issue

March 2022 ★ 21

HOMES

& GARDENS

Stained Glass

tradition lives on

Article and Photos by Rindy O’Brien

ust a couple of miles from the Capitol sits a nationally known stained-glass studio with strong links to Capitol Hill. Adams Morgan Stained Glass studio has restored windows for Catholic University’s original chapel and windows designed by Calvert Faux and Frederick Law Olmstead in the President’s residence at Gallaudet University. The studio is located near Catholic University and is recognized for its excellent conservation work as well as its design work. Daniel Goldon Wolkoff opened the studio in 1989. To enter the studio from the back of the dark brown residential home is to step back into time. It is a place where a master of his craft is passing his knowledge to younger apprentices the old fashioned way. In this space there is admiration for the past and appreciation for taking time to learn the correct techniques. Everything is approached with reverence and respect for the work at hand. No short cuts allowed. And a sense of gratitude for wisdom shared and interest shown flows in both directions.

Not all stained glass is old. Daniel Wolkoﬀ loves to create new glass pieces in the form of collage inspired by the post war German school of stained glass. Photos: Adams Morgan-Stained Glass Studio

22 ★ HILLRAG.COM

Daniel Wolkoﬀ and Hannah Bernhardt at the Adams Morgan Stained Glass Studio, Hannah began her apprenticeship in 2020, and appreciates the patience and skills that Daniel is imparting to her in this very old art form. Photo: Rindy O’Brien

The art and craft of stained glass is often described as a “dying art.” This concern is shared by Daniel, but with the arrival of his latest apprentice, Hannah Bernhardt, he is feeling more optimistic. Starting back in 1975, at the age of 24, Daniel learned traditional stained glass technique as a student of America’s foremost stained glass restorer, Jack Cushen. His devotion to those traditional techniques has endured throughout his career. “I was privileged to learn from some of the best conservators,” Daniel says. “I am so excited to be in a position to return the effort to students interested in learning.” Fast forward to 2020 and the beginning of the COVID pandemic. David Bernhardt, a local contractor and well-known carpenter, stopped by the studio to check in on his old friend

Daniel. Hannah, David’s daughter, came along for the visit. The Bernhardt family is known for its Northeast DC community project, Dwell DC, which was a popular community space for local artists. When she stopped at Adams Morgan Stained Glass, Capitol Hill native Hannah was 24 years old, the same age at which Daniel began his remarkable career. That casual visit was the beginning of Hannah finding her life’s journey. “Something clicked for me that day,” she says. “I was between things and listening to Daniel talk about his work with such passion and devotion, I realized this was what I wanted to learn.” Hannah had graduated from Hunter College with a degree in Women’s Studies, and cer-tainly had never thought of herself as an artist. “I still am not sure I would call myself an artist, but I am really gaining confidence in my stained-glass skills and find the work so rewarding”

SNOW IS MELTING BUT SPRING RAINS ARE ON THE WAY! SECURE YOUR ROOF BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE!CONTACT US NOW FOR YOUR FREE SPRING ROOF INSPECTION.

EMAIL US TODAY AT TOM@RTHOMASDANIELROOFING.COM

OR CALL US AT 202-569-1080

THE HILL’S ROOFER FOR NEARLY 100 YEARS!

R.THOMAS DANIEL ROOFING

Our Services: • LEAK REPAIR • NEW ROOFS • ROOF COATING • Low Slope Roofing

• • • • •

Steep Slope Roofing Gutter & Downspouts Skylights Chimneys Masonry

Uncover Hidden Future Costs. Warning Signs Could Mean Higher Costs If Not Corrected Today!

UNDER YOUR ROOF IS YOUR MOST

VALUABLE ASSET... YOUR HOME!

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ROOFER Owner Tom Daniel, outside the original location of the family roofing business at 310 Independence Ave., S.E.

• • • • •

Roof is over 10 years old Interior water stains Visible leaks or cracks Loose attic insulation Open joints and seams on roof

• Drains/gutters filled with debris • Loose chimney flashing or mortar • Skylight cracked or leaking

202.569.1080 202.544.4430

tom@rthomasdanielroofing.com

www.rthomasdanielroofing.com CAPITOL HILL VILLAGE PREFERRED VENDOR

PROUD TO BE A CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY FOUNDATION SPONSOR March 2022 ★ 23

HOMES

& GARDENS

says Hannah. The master, Daniel, quickly disagrees with Hannah on her artistic assessment. He backs up his enthusiasm for Hannah’s artistic talent by sharing photos of two large windows, designed and built by Hannah, that were recently installed at the Salvation Army headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia. The style is very contemporary, featuring bold colors and spiral lines. The breathtaking windows speak to the hope, grace, and spirit of the organization.

this painstaking work is preventing exposure to any toxic pathogens when removing old, deteriorated lead. Special masks and gloves are employed. “If the piece is really old, Daniel builds boxes to submerge the piece in water to further reduce risk for lead exposure,” says Hannah. After all of these steps are complete, the actual work of putting the window back together begins, bending new lead pieces around the original glass. And, after all that hard and artful work is done, the stained glass work is ready for a new lease on life.

Transoms for your front door are very popular and a specialty of the studio. Hannah has just created one for 224 10th Street, S.E. soon to be installed.

Creating Collage and Modern

Daniel and Hannah working on a traditional Tiﬀany styled lamp in the Brookland studio.

Conservation of Stained Glass Adam Morgan Stained Glass Studio is often contracted to conserve and restore decades-old stained glass windows. It is a careful, highly-detailed task requiring great patience. Hannah says Daniel’s first piece of advice to her was that there is no room for ego in stained glass practice. Being trusted with restoring old works of art, it is crucial to honor the original artistry and understand your own role with respect and humility. Daniel says that it is the silver, lead and metal in stained glass works that deteriorate over time, somewhere between 75 and 100 years. Usually, the glass itself remains in good shape. But the wood framework holding the windows can also give way, putting the treasured piece in jeopardy. To begin a restoration, the piece is taken out of the frame and a rubbing of the art is made, like a brass rubbing at a gravesite. This provides a map of the piece, and as the glass pieces are removed, each one is numbered and located on the map. That’s just one example of the precision and care taken at every step of the process. Some projects can involve removing and restoring hundreds of small glass pieces. Hannah points out that another careful element in 24 ★ HILLRAG.COM

Adams Morgan Stained Glass also works goes into producing a masterpiece. “We couldn’t be on creating new stained glass works. Daniel more pleased.” appreciates the artistry of the post-war German school of stained glass. In particular he admires Giving Back to the Hill the work of Johannes Schreiter, who is known As a Capitol Hill native, Hannah has enjoyed for incorporating the lead as part of the design designing and creating projects in the neighborhood ra-ther than just a structural element. Schreiter’s including front door transoms that incorporate the work also started the use of clear glass in design. address of the house. She has just finished one soon Daniel has created many beautiful collage to be installed at 224 10th Street, SE. “I still have glass pieces that mix the traditional borders with much to learn but I am thrilled to be creating these. contemporary designs in the center. He recently Getting to share it with my childhood neighborhood has designed some clear transom windows for a makes it even more special.” says Hannah. A series of kitchen in the DC area that have been recognized stained glass transoms along a stretch of New Jersey and featured in Architecture Digest. Avenue SE is another place where the studio has left Hannah is following suit. its imprint on the Hill. She starts with a drawing of the piece she intends to create. Then, Master and Apprentice she uses an overhead projector To visit Daniel and Hannah in to recreate the actual size of the their studio is to experience the project, capturing the nuances joy and sense of achievement and intricacies of each piece of shared by people who love glass. Next, it’s time to cut the their work. This master and glass. “Focus, concentration, and apprentice are carrying on the patience are always needed,” says tradition of a craft that reaches Hannah, “without them you put back to the Renaissance. The yourself at risk for a cut.” master is ready to share his Michael O’Connor and passion, experience, and vision; Vlad Gololobov of the Shaw the apprentice is ready to learn neighborhood are very appreciaa craft that fits who she is. This tive of the work of Hannah on their special relationship is not only transom. “I like how collaborative promising for the future of the the studio is, and how they took craft, it is a lesson in being open our concept and turned it into a to the moment. wonderful design,” says Michael. Hannah Bernhardt designed Hannah presented a number and created two large stainedRindy O’Brien is a fellow artist, and glass windows for the Old Town can be reahed at rindyobrien@ of drafts along the way, and a Alexandria headquarters of the gmail.com ◆ trip to the studio helped them Salvation Army that are bold and beautiful and convey the mission understand the hard work that of the organization.

SPRING CLEAN-UP SPECIAL PRICING STARTS AT

$95

INCLUDES:

4 MOWING 4 PRUNING 4 WEEDING 4 LEAF REMOVAL 4 TRIMMING 4 HAULING

BOOK BEFORE MAY 1ST

SOD, HARDSCAPE, PLANT/FLORAL INSTALLATIONS, YARD TRANSFORMATION & MAINTENANCE SERVICES

RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPING

RECEIVE 10%OFF BOOK BEFORE MAY 1ST

Request your landscaping services here:

tinyurl.com/CDLandscaping

FREE ESTIMATES!

To learn more about us, visit CleanDecisions.com

We hire and train those who have struggled with barriers to employment as part of reentering the community after experience in the criminal justice system. Professionally trained and bonded and we guarantee 100% satisfaction.

ASK ABOUT OUR EVENT STAFFING, CLEAN-UP AND RENTALS

CHANGING LIVES ONE LAWN AT A TIME

March 2022 ★ 25

HOMES

& GARDENS

It’s March!

the beekeepers’ busy season by Rindy O’Brien

inter is finally waning. Crocus and early bloomers are starting to push up, and that can only mean one thing for our beekeepers—time to get busy. The honeybees have been enjoying a quiet winter in the hive. But come March, the queen bee begins producing large quantities of eggs and soon the bees realize that housing is getting tight. That sends them swarming in search of new locations and beekeepers have to get busy. It is the bee’s own March madness.

DC Beekeepers Alliance In 2012, local beekeepers, a tight knit group of hobbyists, came together and formed the DC Beekeepers Alliance. Jan Day, the current President, says it has been an incredibly active ten years, driven forward by passage of the Sustainable DC Act of 2012. The Act created a legal structure for beekeeping in DC and a program administered by the DC Department of the Environment (DDOE). Natasha Garcia Anderson is the Fish and Wildlife Biologist at DDOE who oversees the city’s bees. She reports that there are 34 apiaries (the correct term for a collection of beehives) in the 20002 and 20003 zip codes. Each location could have up to four hives. The 2012 Act requires beekeepers to register their colonies with DDOE. Jan says this is helpful to the beekeepers. If there are going to be pesticides sprayed or other activities that would harm the bees, the city is able to notify the impacted beekeepers so they can take proactive measures to protect the bees. No one is allowed to have more than four hives on land less than one-quarter acre. Beekeepers must set their hives more than 15 feet from a property line, provide a fly zone, and seek permission from neighbors. They must also provide a water source for the bees. Permits are also required for a beekeeper to transport the bees to a new location. The city can come and inspect a location at its discretion. And finally, the beekeeper is responsible for remediation if bees swarm and cause a nuisance. 26 ★ HILLRAG.COM

Del Voss and assistant gathering honey from the hives at Union Market. Photos: Del Voss – DC Beekeepers Alliance

March 2022 ★ 27

HOMES

& GARDENS

The DC Beekeepers Alliance maintains a very good website, www. http://www.dcbeekeepers.org and the DDOE also can provide assistance at www. doee.dc.gov.

Beekeeping Classes Each January, the Beekeepers Alliance provides a beekeeping course for beginners. The class runs for eight weeks and totals 16 hours of instruction. Hopefully, this spring COVID restrictions will be lifted enough for two class sessions to be taught in person. “Build Day” teaches new beekeepers how to construct the hives and “Field Day” introduces students to bees. The class, usually about 60 students strong, is jointly sponsored with the University of the District of Columbia and is taught by active volunteer beekeepers. Members of the Alliance receive priority access to the class and registration usually begins in early December. The class fills up very quickly. If you complete the eight weeks, you are certified as a DC beekeeper. Del Voss, a Capitol Hill resident who has been beekeeping for decades, says

finding a bee mentor is essential in the beginning. He was Jan’s mentor when she got started. “There is so much to learn in the beginning and, of course you want to have a successful experience with the bees,” says Del. He says that disease and other unexpected events can result in losing the entire hive. In the DMV area, there are other well-regarded bee associations that offer courses including The Northern Virginia Beekeepers, The Virginia Beekeeping Teacher Consortium, The Bowie-upper Marlboro (Prince George’s County) Beekeepers and the Montgomery County Beekeepers. And of course, there are many resources available online. Jan says not all students in the course start hives once they complete the course. Some people sign up just to learn more about bees and what they can do to encourage pollinators. Educating kids and families early is also part of DC Beekeepers’ mission, and, for the past two years, all third-grade students at Maury Elementary School at 1250 Constitution Avenue, NE, take part in the DC Beekeepers Junior Beekeeping program. During the eight-week unit on bees, students also learn about the environment, pollination and plant life.

The Spring Swarm

A swarm of bees is part of the annual spring process, and can be frightening, but in the hands of certiﬁed beekeepers they are a goldmine.

28 ★ HILLRAG.COM

When a queen bee starts laying eggs in the spring, she can lay 1,000 to 1,500 eggs a day. Soon the hive is just too full, and the bee colony will split into one or two new colonies which is when bees swarm. The worker bees left behind begin the process of choosing eggs, one of which will become the new queen. For non-beekeepers, seeing thousands of bees flying near you can be frightening. The DC Beekeepers Alliance receives calls daily from residents asking for help, and they are more than happy to send experienced beekeepers out to collect the colony. It is a win win for the resident and the beekeeper because collecting swarms is a way for beekeepers to supply their hives without having to pay for the bees. Toni Burnham, a long-time beekeeper on Capitol Hill and a member of the Alliance, fields the calls and reports that last year DC experienced a very swarm-filled spring. The Alliance now has placed 60 swarm traps throughout the city. The beekeepers monitor the traps and if a colony moves in, they move the bees to a full-sized beehive and then re-bait the trap. You are doing a great favor to report a swarm. If you are seeing swarms inside houses, garages, or hollows in trees as opposed to out in the open, the Alliance can help you identify a qualified beekeeper to remove the swarm, but you will be charged for the

In summer and fall, DC beekeepers sell local honey at Eastern Market, and other venues around the Hill.

work. If you see a swarm, do not spray pesticide; call 202-255-4318 if you have a swarm you want collected.

Honey Honey is one of nature’s greatest products and the reward beekeepers receive for helping the bees exist. Del harvests several hundred pounds of honey a year, but some must remain in the hives for the bees to use themselves. Most DC honey is harvested in the summer or early fall. If beekeepers choose to sell their honey, it is regulated by the DC cottage industry regulations. “You will see pollen in the local honey you buy,” says Del. “It is what distinguishes local honey from the honey you buy at the grocery store.” It is the pollen that makes honey taste different, depending on what kind of pollen has been collected by the bees. “I can taste the difference,” says Del, “between honey from my hives around Stanton Park, and those around Lincoln Park.” Jan says when the Alliance began 10 years ago, there were 22 hives and last year 140 hives were registered. Soon a new class of beekeepers will be certified, increasing opportunities for more hives and honey. The Alliance is always looking for new sites for the bees so contact them if you would like to host a beehive. Rindy O’Brien applauds the DC Beekeepers for their work. Contact Rindy at rindyobrien@gmail.com ◆

JOIN US for the opening of our ROOFTOP GARDEN CENTER BRING THIS AD IN AND RECEIVE

OFF

YOUR FIRST PURCHASE FROM THE ROOFTOP Offer expires April 30, 2022

• Plants & Flowers for Sale • Soil • Mulch • Pots

• Seeds • Tools STIHL, Black & Decker & More • Gardening Equipment

YOUR CAPITOL HILL HARDWARE STORE

wsjenks.com | (202) 529-6020 910 Bladensburg Rd NE, WDC 20002

March 2022 ★ 29

30 H HILLRAG.COM

March 2022 H 31

HOMES

& GARDENS

Exposing Interior Brick Walls by Abigail Sekely

xposed interior brick walls are a popular design choice in many historic houses, and buildings across DC. The rich variety of color and texture in old bricks can set the tone for chic and inviting interior spaces. Although most homeowners focus on aesthetics, it’s important to remember that interior brick walls are structural and need to be treated with care. The brick wall visible inside the house is not only attached to, but is an integral part of, the brick wall outside because they are one and the same. Houses in Washington built before 1920 have what are known as “load bearing” walls. That means the strength of the bricks themselves hold the walls in position. These structural walls are generally three brick widths thick, with bricks laid at ninety-degree angles to ensure optimal structural integrity. They are fused together with a limebased mortar that contains fired lime, sand, and shells. Originally, brick walls inside historic houses were covered with lath—or wooden strips attached to the wall--covered with multiple layers of plaster. Over time, plaster tends to fail and crack, separating from the lath and the brick wall behind it. When plaster has reached the end of its life, this is a prime opportunity to expose the brick wall underneath. BEFORE

32 ★ HILLRAG.COM

A skilled craftsman tuckpoints an interior brick wall that was previously covered in plaster. These bricks have not been exposed since the 1930’s. Photos: Dr. Christina Wilson

If a brick wall is covered in plaster, it can easily be removed, but must be done carefully. The bricks underneath are soft; they have a firm exterior but tend to be spongy and crumbly inside due to age and weathering. Aggressive removal of plaster can damage the faces of bricks. Plaster removal should be done carefully by hand with small chisels. AFTER

Plaster removal is inherently messy and will generate a tremendous amount of dust. Before commencement of plaster removal, seal off the work area with plastic tarps taped to the walls, ceiling, and floor to contain dust. Place damp towels at the bottom of door and window openings to help with dust intrusion. Once plaster is removed from a brick

MacKay Roofing Flat RooF SpecialiStS FOR ALL YOUR ROOFING & GUTTER NEEDS 4 Chimney Repair 4 All Other Home Improvement Needs 4 Inside Ceiling Repair & Painting 4 Critter Trapping & Damage Repair 4 Patching – Coating – Waterproofing 4 Insulation 4 Roof Certifications

50 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE REASONABLE RATES HIGHEST RANKING IN:

15% DISCOUNT WITH THIS AD

CALL NOW FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

202-210-2179

www.ROOFERWASHINGTON.com

LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED March 2022 ★ 33

Full-Service Landscape Design & Maintenance

Thomas Landscapes OVER 25 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN CAPITOL HILL

Redefining Beauty One Client at a Time! • Installation, arbors, retaining walls, walkways, lighting, water features • Patios, roof top gardens, townhomes, single family homes • Trees & shrubs, formal & informal gardens • Custom Masonry, Fencing and Iron work • Restoration and Enhancement

Spring Garden Special EXP 03/31/2022

10% OFF NEW CLIENTS

15% OFF ANY DESIGN

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

301.642.5182 | 202.322.2322 (Office) thomaslandscapes.com 34 ★ HILLRAG.COM

wall, the mortar that was originally placed in the joints between the bricks will need to be replaced. Lime-based mortar is the best option, because it will replicate the strength of the original mortar used. It will also complement the historic bricks in both color and texture. Following the installation of new mortar, exposed brick walls should be carefully washed to eliminate any residual dust. Application of an opaque or nonshiny sealer will give the wall a uniform finish and also help minimize dust in the future. After an interior brick wall has been cleaned, tuckpointed, and sealed, it is important not to punch holes in either the brick faces or the mortar. If hanging pictures on the wall is important, consider installing a picture molding instead. Holes in exposed brick walls are not structurally sturdy enough to accommodate heavy frames. Dust from the holes can also be a nuisance. Although exposing an interior brick wall might seem like a tempting project, it is wise to consider hiring a contractor or masonry professional to handle the job. This will ensure pleasing and lasting results. Reprinted with permission from an original publication by Renaissance Development. Renaissance Development is a leading masonry contractor specializing in tuckpointing – brick mortar repair using historically appropriate and traditional methods and materials – for lasting brick facade and chimney repair. https://rendevdc.com. ◆

ELITE

FO U N DAT I O N & R E PA I R S

YOUR FOUNDATION IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF THE HOUSE

Specializing in Foundation Repair Services, Problems, Inspection and Sinking

Foundation Concrete Retaining Walls Foundation Repair Concrete Slab Underpinning

If You Notice Your House Foundation is Settling,

CALL US NOW!

(301) 213-5050

Preserving Capitol Hill BRICK BY BRICK since 1985

Historical Preservation Specialists • • • • •

Re-pointing with historical method mortar Rebuilding arches and historical architecture Restoration cleaning on historical brick and stone Masonry & Stone Restoration Artisans Lead Paint Abatement

202-544-9301 FREE ESTIMATES

brickmasonrywashingtondc.com Bricklands@msn.com

March 2022 ★ 35

36 ★ HILLRAG.COM

• 419 Luxury Rental Residences ranging from Studios to 2 Bedrooms with a den • 24-hour concierge with package handling, fitness center with Peloton bikes, expansive roof deck with pool, grilling stations, community gardens and outdoor living rooms • Underground resident-only parking (assigned spaces) available

• Studios starting at* $1800, one bedrooms starting at* $2100, two bedrooms starting at* $3200 (*prices are approximations and are subject to change daily)

• 3-24 month lease terms available! • Backyard in the sky: select apartment homes feature 600-1100 square foot private terraces

• Pet Friendly: No monthly pet rent, 1450 square foot dog park, pet spa

w w w. a ve c o n h .c o m I 8 3 3 - 7 1 5 -2 3 8 2 901 H Street NE, Washington DC, 20002 The housing provider will not refuse to rent a rental unit to a person because the person will provide the rental payment, in whole or in part, through a voucher for rental housing assistance provided by the District or federal government.

March 2022 ★ 37

HOMES

& GARDENS

im Guckert is bending over a patch of dirt on the 700 block of Eighth St. SE. Two young men are kneeling close by, watching and taking instruction. “Keep it even with the ground,“ instructs Guckert, as he deftly slides a rose bush into a prepared hole. “But if you can’t do that,” he continues, “it’s better to plant higher than lower.” They pack soil and manure around the roses, and as one of the young men stands, he grows reflective. “In the future, people are going to walk by and I’m going to think, I planted that,” says 24-year-old Whyte Dawles. The planting is a collaboration between volunteer-based organization Guerrilla Gardeners and Sasha Bruce Youthworks (SBY, 741 Eighth St. SE), a nonprofit working to prevent and end youth homelessness in the DC Region. The arrangement is part of a continuing effort to beautify the southern end of Barracks Row, but both Guerrilla Gardeners and the volunteers are hoping the work experience can provide them with so much more. They’re looking for the experience they need to make a fresh start.

Gardening Partnership Helps Youth Bloom on Barracks Row guerrilla gardeners oﬀers internship to sasha bruce youth– and you can help by Elizabeth O’Gorek

invest in their neighborhood, she thought. So many of the youth Sasha Bruce works with are looking for jobs. They don’t always have the strongest work histories, but they really want to work, Liebert said. Sasha Bruce prepares young people to get them work ready, but the organization is always looking for more employment opportunities for youth. “We really just need somebody who’s going to take a chance with someone they might not ordinarily take a chance with,” said Lieber.

Planting Seeds Guerrilla Gardeners is taking that chance, and 24-year-old Makeem McNair is seizing the opportunity. When he learned of the opportunity through SBY, he immediately volunteered. Realizing he was dealing with some difficult times, he said, he had come to Sasha

in underserved communities. He reached out to organizations along Barracks Row to see if there was interest in purchasing rose bushes, mulch, soil and manure and having the roses planted in the tree Taking a Chance boxes that line the street. That’s the whole goal, said Guckert, the founder of When Guckert and his team knocked on the Guerrilla Gardeners of Washington DC, which imdoor of SBY they found a partner instead of a cliproves public spaces, particularly neglected parcels ent. In addition to taking Guerrilla Gardeners up on the offer to beautify the space in front of the building, SBY Program Manager Pam Lieber also suggested Jim Guckert Guerilla Gardener. Photo: E. O’Gorek/CCN that the two organizations partner together to Bruce because he heard they had a good program. do the work. “They help you get back where you need to be, “I thought it would so I took that chance, and came,” he said. “And ever just be a great opportunisince then, they’ve helped me.” ty for some of our young A father of two children aged 5 and 2, McNair people to learn and be wants to try to better himself, and he sees gardening a part of the communias a potential career. He learned the basics through ty, so I approached Jim,” a program at school, he said, and he’s ready to learn she said. Young people more. “It could be a great career and I want to try interested in getting innew things,” he explains. “I don’t mind trying new volved with the project things out.” could take the opportuParticipants will plant roses along the street, nity to build experience, but also help Guerrilla Gardeners maintain the learn some new skills, Makeem McNair and Whyte Dawles work with Guerrilla Gardeners’ Jim Guckert boxes, which Guckert says will require significant build a resume and also to plant a rose bush on the 700 block of Barracks Row. Photo: E. O’Gorek/CCN 38 ★ HILLRAG.COM

Need A Skilled Mason?

Specializing In Historic Renovation & Artisan Stonework Custom Masonry • Stone • Brick Work Point Up • Restoration • Patio & Water Garden Tom and his team did an amazing job on our chimney rebuild and brick repointing. From start to finish they were prompt, professional, and communicative. I would highly recommend Michaliga Masonry forany and all work you need done. - Glen S. Washington, DC

Tom Michaliga 202-544-4484 MichaligaMasonry@gmail.com

Award-winning mason with over 30 years of experience Former Head Mason of the Architect of the Capitol from 1989-1996

www.michaligamasonry.com REASONABLE PRICES • HILL RESIDENT • LICENSED - BONDED – INSURED

J. A. SERVICES Painting & Historic Brick Preservation O v e r 1 0 Ye a r s o f E x p e r i e n c e

AL’S TWIN AIR, LLC. C O OL I NG & H E AT I NG

Let us keep your family cool this summer!

BRICKWORK I CONCRETE I PAINTING

CALL US FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE!

Repoint New & Historical Walkways & Patios Retaining Walls & Chimney Interior & Exterior Painting

202.367.572

jaservicesdmv@gmail.com

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, PLUMBING

Spring Special

Air Conditioner Tune-Up

OFFER EXPIRES 05/31/22.

FU L LY L I C EN SED , IN S U R E D & B ON D E D EXP ERT SER VIC E , GUAR AN TE E D .

www.ataservices1.com 202.388.8888 March 2022 ★ 39

ARMING A NAVY: THE NAVAL GUN FACTORY AND ITS LOCAL WORKFORCE PRESERVATION CAFE TUESDAY, MARCH 15, 6:30 PM The history of Building 76 in the Washington Navy Yard, home of the National Museum of the United States Navy. Learn about the operations of the factory and experiences of the factory’s diverse workforce. Free. Details: chrs.org/naval-gun-factory-pc/.

PHOTO CONTEST THE CAPITOL HILL HOME Entries due March 13. View details and past contest winners at chrs.org/photo-contest-2022/.

GUIDED WALKING TOURS SATURDAY & SUNDY, MARCH 26 & 27 Themes include Architecture of Capitol Hill, Capitol Hill Alleys, and Our Industrial Past. Tickets available through Eventbrite. Details: chrs.org/guided-walking-tours-march-2022/

CONNECT WITH US! Visit www.chrs.org Email CapHRS420@gmail.com or call 543-0425 Follow us on @CapHRS @CHRSDC CapitolHillRestorationDC

Whyte Dawles is interested in a career where he works with his hands, such as construction or landscaping. “I don’t know what it is, but I just love the earth,” he said. Photo: E.O’Gorek/CCN

upkeep. The young people will take ownership of not only the garden boxes, but of the street, Guckert said, “and really become a stronger part of this community.”

Blossoming The partnership with SBY is similar to an internship project Guerrilla Gardeners ran with Potomac Gardens Apartments. The two banded together to improve the nearby parks, and then used a grant from DC Awesome Foundation to engage youth to help improve and maintain the parks. Youth were offered a stipend to keep furniture clean and do yard work. Aquarius VannCharsi, then president of the Potomac Gardens Tenant Council, helped Guckert mobilize volunteers and has since taken on the responsibility of programming the park, hosting story times, DJs and a Kwanza celebration. Guckert said the response was overwhelmingly positive. “Everyone who came said, ‘We just couldn’t

imagine that you would do that here,’ because we changed the spaces and activated them with some positive programs. So we’re planting seeds. You never know what the upside is going to be.” At Potomac Gardens, Guckert said, the partnership was able to bring attention to the community, its youth and the job they were doing. It also brought positive attention to some of the interns working in the park. “First District Commission Tasha Bryan fell in love with one of our kids,” Guckert remembers, “and [she] said, ‘I want him for the academy.’ He’s only going into ninth grade! She’s like ‘Ya, but I’ve got my eye on him.’” The project resulted in a good interaction with police that could affect the young man’s future path, Guckert explained. “These are all part of the process of building a community and we’re hoping that these young people blossom into leaders of their community,” he said.

You Can Help! If you have employment opportunities or donations in kind or of funding, reach out to Sasha Bruce online at www.sashabruce.org or call 202.675.9340. Do you want to provide financial support for the internship? Reach out to Guerrilla Gardeners (guerrillagardenersdc.org) online. 40 ★ HILLRAG.COM

You can put your trust in Capitol Tree Care, Inc. We provide personal service and work of exceptional quality.

William William Willi Willia am Shelton am Shelton Shelt l on lt Tree Tree Tr e Arborist Tre Arborist

Residential & Commercial Restoration & Historical Preservation

CAPITOL TREE CARE, INC. Complete Residential & Commercial

VA (703) 359-6608 DC (202) 234-0577 24-hr cell (703) 930-9293 Please visit us at: www.capitol-tree-care.com Licensed & Insured Visa and MC Accepted FREE ESTIMATES

Structure Specialists Renovations & Remodeling Kitchens, Baths & Basements Restoration & Repair

Call 202.965.1600 DCRA Lic 9115 • Insured • References

www.jf meyer.com March 2022 ★ 41

Sanabria & Co., a full-service interior design studio based out of Capitol Hill, has opened a home decor, furnishings, and gifts storefront!

409 East Capitol Street SE The store offers everything from locally-made beeswax candles and home fragrances to one-of-a-kind vintage rugs, all selected with the Capitol Hill modern family in mind.

HOURS: THURSDAY - SUNDAY 12-5

SANABRIAANDCO.COM 202.844.2708 | shop@sanabriaandco.com

COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT Barracks Row Main Street

Building Smart from the Start

Interior Renovation and Space Planning Whether remodeling, new construction or simply rearranging your current layout we handle complex and simple projects with equal care.

737 8th Street SE

$3,700/ month utilities not included

We integrate the design and construction disciplines, so all your needs can be addressed with one point of contact. We keep costs in check and projects on time.

•844 Square Feet •Heavy Foot Traffic •New AC & Heating System

Call Blake Taylor

443-903-5667 42 ★ HILLRAG.COM

301 642 5182 o

derek@thomasdesignconsultants.com

CHECK OUR GALLERY AT: thomasdesignconsultants.com

Now, Sasha Bruce and Guerrilla Gardeners are hoping that young men like Dawles will spread that same spirit of growth and leadership. Guckert hopes the Barracks Row beautification project can attract financial support so that Guerrilla Gardeners and Sasha Bruce can offer an internship along with a stipend. “There is opportunity for young people to get some job experience, practical real-world experience,” Guckert said.

Getting Their Hands Dirty That’s what Whyte Dawles is hoping for. He likes the idea of a career in construction or landscaping. Dawles first came to Sasha Bruce as a 13-year-old kid, after he “got in trouble a little bit.” He was sent to Sasha Bruce. A lot has happened in the 11 years since then, he said, some of it not-so-great. “I’ve had a lot of stuff happen in my life; I like, got stuck,” he said. “But thanks to Sasha Bruce it’s helping me move on and keep going.” Through Sasha Bruce, he got some work with Dreaming Out Loud, which creates economic opportunities within marginalized communities by building a healthy, equitable food system. When Guerrilla Gardeners offered Dawles a chance, he thought that since he had some experience in a garden, he wouldn’t be starting from nothing.. Dawles acknowledges that there is symbolism in that he is using his knowledge acquired through the efforts of Sasha Bruce to plant a growing thing at the entrance. But he also just likes getting his hands dirty. “I like getting my hands dirty. That’s what I’ve always wanted to do,” he explained. “I just like the earth. I don’t know what it is, I just love the earth.” ◆

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD REALTOR

GEORGE OLSON (202) 203-0339 - (M) (202) 203-0339 - (D) george.olson@cbmove.com Capitol Hill Office 605 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE 202.547.3525

March 2022 ★ 43

EXTENSIVE KNOWLEDGE OF CAPITOL HILL & BEYOND

The Capitol Hill Garden Club presents

Dear Garden Problem Lady, DEDICATION, EXPERTISE & INTEGRITY, WORKING FOR YOU!

I donate $500 of every sale to the Capitol Hill Community Foundation, to strengthen the fabric of our neighborhood. When you work with me, you make a difference!

Contact me for a no-obligation consultation Representing Buyers & Sellers

202.321.0874

heatherschoell.penfedrealty.com

DR. WALTER BOWMAN, SR. Realtor & Owner

Licensed in Washington, DC 519 C St. NE Washington, D.C. 20002

drbowman@tagarkad.com

(301) 213-2555

WWW.TAGARKAD. C OM 44 ★ HILLRAG.COM

Capitol Hill | 705 North Carolina Ave. SE 202-608-1882 x111-175 Office heathersdc@gmail.com @HeatherSchoell Heather Schoell Real Estate dcheather © 2018 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchise of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.

336 15th Street NE Washington, DC

by Wendy Blair Last summer our water bill nearly broke us. Water cost as much as food! What to do? First plan a smaller garden. Give super-thirsty perennials away. You could create a Japanese style garden (stones, plants, a small water feature). Or a shade garden (trees, shrubs, perennials with beautiful leaves). Or choose drought-tolerant sun-loving plants. If you’re tired of Black-eyed Susans (Rudbekkia), or Butterfly Weed (Asclepias Tuberosa) find other drought-tolerant plants. If roses you must have, plan for watering and bills. Help! My crape myrtles developed white spots on the trunk and stems and black splotches all over their trunks. What are they? Will they kill the trees? Can I get rid of them? This scale has the ability to infest all of our crape myrtles. Vira Sisolak shares this, her sad story. Her Crape Myrtles did have to be cut down from the strip of land beside the red brick Verizon building at 200 7th St. NE where Vira had transformed a derelict trash dump into a beautiful shade garden. She blames herself for not paying attention in time. Those white spots are “scale”. They contain tiny insects that suck sap and nutrients from trunks and stems. The black splotches are mold, endemic in shade. Scale is deadly unless removed early by hand, knife or water stream. Ladybugs eat scale in its young, larval stage only. If scale infestation is widespread, the branch -- or tree -- must be removed. P.S. Vira wrote to DDOT, which responded immediately saying; “Yes, we became aware of crape myrtle bark scale (CMBS) in the District in 2021. We are taking action to ensure we can maintain the crape myrtles we have and change our planting and pruning activities to

REPLACEMENT

WINDOWS & DOORS

1880 ON THE OUTSIDE reduce further spread of CMBS. We are also in contact with the Extension agents from Texas A&M University who are leading research and extension efforts to improve management of CMBS. They also maintain this very helpful website, https://stopcmbs.com/ “We set up training with the group at Texas A&M, and they are hosting a webinar and Q&A session at the end of the month for us, along with the US Architect of the Capitol. You are welcome to join. I attached the invite email above, registration is required (and FREE) via Zoom. “We are developing a management plan that will address planting of crape myrtles, inspections for CMBS, sanitation methods, control methods, and guidance for the general public. We will share this on our forest health website here, https://trees.dc.gov/pages/forest-health.” Capitol Hill Garden Club meetings are free and open to all. On March 8, 2022 the club will focus on ways to get your garden ready for Spring. Please contact the website Capitolhillgardenclub.org to find the invitation and link to this Zoom meeting. 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. ◆

2022 ON THE INSIDE

Historic Window Replacement Specialists Full Tear-Out and Retro-Fit installations, Wood, Aluminum Clad or Fiberglass Windows & Doors Permit Expediting for Historic DC Properties

FREE NO OBLIGATION ESTIMATES

OFF 20 INSTALLATION %

COST

E-mail request to alex@windowscraft.com *Offer valid by email only. Exp. 03/31/2022

alex@windowscraft.com | 202.288.6660

www.windowscraft.com LICENSED, INSURED AND BONDED

FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL NEEDS Toni Casey Licensed Electrician 202-684-1915 Wattsthedamagellc wattsthedamage@gmail.com

Residential & Commercial

New Installations • Additional Outlets Panel Upgrades • House Rewiring • Ceiling Fans Tesla Charging Stations

REALTOR ®

Experience Matters When it

FINDING YOUR DREAM HOME.

Comes to

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

EVELYN BRANIC REALTOR ®

202-741-1674 Ebranic.cbintouch.com Ebranic@cbmove.com 350 7th St SE, Washington, DC 20003

March 2022 ★ 45

HOMES

& GARDENS

Taking Care of Your Roof by Tom Daniel

ove your house? Of course you do! But true love requires a commitment. Under your roof is your home, most people’s most valuable asset. You can easily see when the paint or drywall inside your home needs to be redone, when you need new carpets or flooring, or when you need to replace your front stairs. But you probably can’t see the roof and have no idea what the condition is from year to year. You need to make sure the roof is properly maintained to protect that most valuable asset.

It’s not just the roof to worry about. What about the skylights, chimneys, hatch tops, flashing, wall caps/parapets, gutters and drains, HVAC systems and ducts? All of these appendages can cause problems and are a source of water entry if not properly maintained. Having them inspected and maintained annually is a good rule of thumb. Here are some warning signs to be on the lookout for: • A roof over 10 years old • Interior water stains or dampness visible on ceilings or walls • Cracks in drywall

• •

An older ﬂat roof that needs to be replaced with a new roof.

A metal roof needing repair and maintenance.

46 ★ HILLRAG.COM

Loose attic insulation Water stains in crawl space or attic • Water overflowing gutters in rain Some homes have roofs that are uneven due to the original construction, especially many Hill homes built in the 1960s and 70s. These roofs often leave pooling water after rain that can take weeks to dry out. Excess water is a major stress to the roof. Recently we inspected a roof on Ninth Street near Eastern Market that had pooling water on more than half of the roof. This is a problem! Most homes on Capitol Hill have flat or lowslope roofs. A main reason for failure of such roofs is lack of knowledge about how to maintain them, or lack of maintenance. On a flat roof, damage from a leak often goes unnoticed for a considerable time as water penetrates and soaks the decking and insula-

Slate turret and ﬂashing needing repair.

New sloped aluminum roof on 11th St SE near M St.

tion and underlying structures such as an attic or crawl space. This can lead to extensive damage from the rot which, if left untreated, can weaken the roof structure and create mold problems. One problem with maintaining flat roofs is that if water does penetrate the covering barrier, it can travel a long way before causing visible damage through stains, dampness, and the like. Another common reason for failure of flat roofs is lack of drain maintenance when leaves and debris block water outlets. When water freezes in winter it can expand and break up the roof surface. Often overlooked is cracked and loose mortar between brick joints on chimneys, where water can enter the house. While we all love skylights, old ones are often a problem. The glass cracks, the joint between the glass and the frame wears out, flashing fails. Something else to worry about! And hatch tops (sometimes called trap doors) almost as often as skylights can be a source for water damage. To summarize, homeowners should regularly have inspections of the roof, chimneys, skylights, hatch tops, wall caps/ parapets, flashing and gutters, and drains. You want to uncover hidden future costs and protect you most valuable asset. Tom Daniel is owner and general manager of R. Thomas Daniel Roofing LLC and is the third generation of the family to provide roofing services to Capitol Hill families. Tom was born on Capitol Hill and supports numerous community organizations. For help with your roofing needs he can be reached at 202-569-1080, 202-544-4430, or tom@rthomasdanielroofing.com. ◆

March 2022 ★ 47

HOMES

& GARDENS

Changing Hands

Changing Hands is a list of residential sales in Capitol Hill and contiguous neighborhoods from the previous month. A feature of every issue, this list, based on the MRIS, is provided courtesy of Don Denton, manager of the Coldwell Banker office on Capitol Hill. The list includes address, sales price and number of bedrooms. 718 Gresham Pl NW 1031 Euclid St NW 764 Gresham Pl NW 746 Irving St NW 3232 Warder St NW 1323 Florida Ave NW 750 Lamont St NW

$925,000 $850,000 $850,000 $836,500 $825,000 $785,000 $580,000

CONGRESS HEIGHTS 3835 Halley Ter SE 707 Atlantic St SE 847 Marjorie Ct SE 513 Newcomb St SE

DEANWOOD

NEIGHBORHOOD PRICE BR

CAPITOL HILL

FEE SIMPLE ANACOSTIA 1227 Talbert St SE 1414 Ridge Pl SE 1747 W St SE 2304 Nicholson St SE 2016 16th St SE

BLOOMINGDALE 54 Rhode Island Ave NW 59 Bryant St NW 124 W St NW 216 Rhode Island Ave NW

BRENTWOOD 2217 16th St NE

48 ★ HILLRAG.COM

2207 14th St NE 1519 Downing St NE

$750,000 $720,000 $615,000 $600,000 $568,000

2 4 4 0 3

$1,500,000 $1,125,000 $1,010,806 $999,555

5 3 6 4

$600,000

316 Independence Ave SE 331 9th St NE #TH1 1432 G St SE 634 F St NE 124 Kentucky Ave SE 1101 Maryland Ave NE 148 F St SE 1017 E St NE 118 North Carolina Ave SE 1010 D St SE 829 Kentucky Ave SE 222 14th St NE 633 Constitution Ave NE 1614 A St SE 503 10th St SE 405 10th St SE 345 Tennessee Ave NE

$500,000 $440,000 $3,000,000 $2,515,000 $2,250,000 $2,230,000 $1,550,000 $1,350,000 $1,350,000 $1,305,000 $1,295,000 $1,250,000 $1,242,700 $1,170,000 $1,098,500 $1,095,900 $1,035,000 $1,030,000 $940,000

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

709 14th St SE 327 14th St NE 1249 Wylie NE

$915,000 $650,000 $630,000

CAPITOL HILL EAST 807 Kentucky Ave SE 709 16th St NE

$782,500 $680,000

CARVER LANGSTON 822 21st St NE 1747 L St NE

$650,000 $521,000

COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 3525 16th St NW 3909 13th St NW 3516 10th St NW 1352 Parkwood Pl NW 1011 Otis Pl NW 4025 13th St NW 1113 Clifton St NW 612 Otis Pl NW

$1,450,000 $1,406,000 $1,275,000 $1,239,000 $1,050,000 $1,025,000 $965,000 $939,000

3 3 2 2 2

4941 Fitch Pl NE 5514 Clay Pl NE 4506 Nan. H. Burroughs Ave NE 3819 Blaine St NE 4700 Kane Pl NE 223 46th St NE 5338 Jay St NE 822 52nd St NE 911 45th Pl NE 815 52nd St NE 4626 A St SE 5204 Hayes St NE 3925 Blaine St NE 4203 Grant St NE 4030 Grant St NE 4510 Dix St NE 5705 Nan. H. Burroughs Ave NE 538 48th Pl NE 45-Se 55th St SE 416 Division Avenue NE 5085 Just St NE 5330 Gay St NE 5105 Lee St NE

DUPONT CIRCLE 1641 19th St NW 1821 S St NW 2013 Q St NW 1610 Q St NW 1837 19th St NW 1508 Swann St NW

3 2

ECKINGTON

4 5 7 4 4 5 4 3

EDGEWOOD

302 Rhode Island Ave NE 181 Uhland Ter NE 209 Cromwell Ter NE

$655,000 $467,000 $450,000 $370,000

4 3 4 4

$560,000 $540,000 $516,000 $515,000 $514,000 $500,000 $459,000 $440,000 $406,000 $404,900 $400,000 $369,000 $369,000 $365,000 $361,000 $350,000 $345,000 $337,000 $325,000 $310,000 $295,000 $271,000 $215,000

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

$1,900,000 $1,549,000 $3,360,000 $2,650,000 $1,456,000 $812,000

3 3 6 6 3 1

$1,100,000 $924,650

4 4

$840,000

FORT DUPONT PARK 1030 Burns St SE 1575 41st St SE 4326 SE F St SE 1662 40th St SE

4 3 3 2 3 3 2

$514,000 $480,000 $480,000 $320,000

4 4 4 3

MARCH INTO A

NEW HOME THIS SPRING! 3905 Q St SE 3212 Minnesota Ave SE

$310,000 $225,000

3 2

3247 Theodore R Hagans Dr NE $750,000 3707 Com. Joshua Barney Dr NE $715,000

3 3

FORT LINCOLN

H STREET CORRIDOR 1224 Linden Pl NE

HILL CREST 2116 31st St SE 716 Bayley Pl SE 3104 Lyndale Pl SE 3427 N St SE 3125 Lyndale Pl SE 3150 M Pl SE 3026 M St SE 716 Croissant Pl SE 3427 N St SE

IVY CITY

1831 Corcoran St NE

KINGMAN PARK 1730 D St NE 311 18th St NE 2019 Rosedale St NE

LEDROIT PARK 41 V St NW 1905 4th St NW

LILY PONDS 3321 Ames St NE

LOGAN CIRCLE 1311 S St NW 1313 Riggs St NW 1201 Rhode Island Ave NW 1635 13th St NW

$789,900

$849,900 $474,000 $469,900 $400,000 $361,000 $340,999 $320,000 $310,000 $40,000

4 4 3 5 3 3 2 3 5

$479,900

$950,000 $785,000 $640,000

4 4 2

$1,001,000 $800,000

4 6

$470,000

$2,049,000 $1,775,000 $1,100,000 $1,850,000

4 4 3 5

MARSHALL HEIGHTS 5532 B St SE 4647 A St SE

$370,000 $333,000

MOUNT VERNON SQ 1227 4th St NW

NOMA

920 8th St NE

OLD CITY #1

647 L St NE 326 17th Pl NE 1353 Massachusetts SE 312 15th St NE 241 12th St NE 716 13th St NE 243 17th St SE 1537 North Carolina Ave NE 1138 7th St NE 1111 Abbey Pl NE 923 4th St NE 500 21st St NE 203 17th St SE

2 2

$625,000

$1,500,000

$1,160,000 $1,100,000 $1,069,000 $911,000 $900,000 $899,000 $870,000 $800,000 $795,000 $772,500 $750,000 $745,000 $737,000

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

G IN ! M N O O C O S

1751 A St SE 6BD/4.5BA $1,500,000

808 9th St NE 5BD/3.5BA $1,395,000

4-FLOOR TRANSFORMATION WITH PENTHOUSE SUITE + DECKS! From local builders, this whole house renovation spans four levels, with all new systems and fine finishes! Penthouse-level owner’s suite with sweeping Southeast views from the rear deck; 3 full bedrooms plus 2 baths (one en suite) on 2nd level, and open concept living / central kitchen / dining on the main level. Separate entry lower level offers flexible use as bonus 2-bdrm apartment, guest space, or short-term rental! Don’t miss this stunning transformation near River Trails and new Metro development at Stadium Armory!

G IN ! M N O O C O S

ER T! D C N A U TR N CO

BRICK BAY FRONT BOASTS BIG SPACES AND BEST LOCATION! Just ONE block to H Street’s restaurants, cafés, fitness boutiques, groceries and FRESHFARM market, make this spacious row home with a DEEP lot your own! A Keil Construction renovation with dramatic roofdeck, solar panels and large driveway with off street parking!

2BD/1BA STEPS TO EVERYTHING FROM BRIGHT & TALL BRICK BAY! Steps to Barracks Row and Eastern Market, enjoy this BRIGHT 2-bedroom home with tall ceilings, gleaming hardwood floors, 2 fireplaces, sunny rear brick patio and bonus LL storage! The best of the HILL at your doorstep!

714 North Carolina Ave SE 4BD/3.5BA List: $1,575,000

1330 K St SE Unit 1: 3BD/2.5BA, $995,000 LUXURY-CRAFTED CONDO THAT LIVES LIKE A HUGE HOME! Only one remains - you just can’t FIND this quality and craftsmanship and spaciousness in this Capitol Hill condo that lives like a huge row home. Renowned master builders Schmidt Development – neighborhood locals – have seamlessly blended 5 boutique condos into a quiet block less than 500 meters from Metro and The Roost food hall. Unit 1 offers 3 large bedrooms and 2.5 gorgeous baths on two levels with custom craftsmanship and fantastic finishes throughout.

ER T! D C N A U TR N CO

PLACEMENT AND POISE FOR ELEGANT ENTERTAINING! Live at the HEART of historic Capitol Hill, literally STEPS to Eastern Market! Elegant South-facing Victorian w/ DEEP (66 ft!) house dimensions. Entertain 2 or 20 in style w/ front parlor, formal dining, rear atrium and glass breakfast room overlooking serene secret garden and grounds! 3 BRs UP plus 2 all new spa-like baths, laundry center, sunny front BR w/ window bench overlooking market plaza. Separate front entry lower level w/bonus bath & laundry = lovely guest studio. Perfectly poised package for civilized city living!

1241 Maryland Ave NE 3BD/2BA $899,500 BRICK BAY FRONT BECKONS FROM BROAD BOULEVARD! Tall brick bay-front beauty beckons from broad boulevard! Built by renowned Charles Gessford and dramatically updated with exposed brick and stunning modern kitchen and baths! Open living + dining w/ central fireplace + gorgeous cross-cut stairs; Renovated kitchen replacement is fully custom in every corner: stone counters, crafted cabinets, & curated appliances + step out to rear deck and patio. Huge primary bedroom up w/ vaulted ceilings plus renovated modern hall bath + 2nd bedroom; Lower level BONUS w/separate front & rear entries, tall ceilings, laundry, bath + 3rd FP - flex space or restore to previous role as separate apartment!

202.243.7707

info@joelnelsongroup.com March 2022 ★ 49

Additions & Basement Experts BUFFALO COMPANY, LLC www.buffalocompanyusa.com For all your Construction Needs ADDITIONS RENOVATIONS REMODELING KITCHENS INTERIORS Over 16 Years of Experience

REHAB

Craftsmanship Custom Made Cabinets & Furniture References Available

703-786-3863 cemohome@yahoo.com licensed • insured Owned & Operated by a Capitol Hill Resident

LOOKING FOR A REAL ESTATE AGENT? CALL SAM JOHNSTON

1734 Gales St NE 1631 C St SE 1656 Rosedale St NE 426 23rd Pl NE

OLD CITY #2 1539 Marion St NW 402 R St NW

$699,000 $678,000 $650,000 $624,900

2 2 2 3

$757,000 $705,000

2 3

RANDLE HEIGHTS 3244 15th Pl SE 6 Knox Cir SE 1727 Stanton Ter SE 3528 21st St SE 1951 Alabama Ave SE 2479 Alabama Ave SE 2410 Good Hope Rd SE #104

SHAW

1709 6th St NW 1534 Marion St NW

TRINIDAD

1234 Florida Ave NE 1268 Owen Pl NE 1118 Owen Pl NE 1316 Florida Ave NE 1227 17th St NE 1732 L St NE 1623 Lyman Pl NE 1744 Montello Ave NE 1941 Bennett Pl NE 1426 Montello Ave NE 1146 16th St NE 1919 Bennett Pl NE 1637 L St NE 1707 Holbrook St NE

$490,000 $485,000 $444,000 $429,990 $395,000 $300,000 $115,000

4 3 4 3 3 3 2

$880,000 $825,000

3 4

$965,000 $965,000 $880,000 $730,000 $675,000 $657,950 $619,900 $610,000 $585,000 $550,000 $490,000 $488,000 $406,550 $390,000

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

TRUXTON CIRCLE 228 P St NW

$689,000

U STREET CORRIDOR 1446 Florida Ave NW

Let him help you buy or sell your home. Schedule your appointment to get a complimentary market evaluation.

WATERFRONT 511 G St SW

$1,115,000

14TH STREET CORRIDOR 2125 14th St NW #304W

$1,060,000

$960,000 $857,500 $780,000 $656,000 $650,000

3 3 2 2 2

$459,000

59 Randolph Pl NW #1 $745,000 150 Rhode Island Ave NW #303 $600,000

2 2

1700 Kalorama Rd NW #310 1840 Vernon St NW #303 2360 Champlain St NW #2.2 2432 Ontario Rd NW #3 2505 17th St NW #3

50 ★ HILLRAG.COM

$990,000

CONDO

ADAMS MORGAN

4J Real Estate 80 M ST SE #100 Washington, DC 20003 (770) 584-7603 sam@4jre.com

BARRY FARMS 2602 Stanton Rd SE

BLOOMINGDALE

BRENTWOOD 1007 Bryant St NE #3

$522,000

CAPITOL GATEWAY 88 V St SW #703 88 V St SW #106 88 V St SW #712

CAPITOL HILL

209 8th St NE #1 1330 K St SE #2 1332 K St SE #5 1332 K St SE #4 901 D St NE #201 116 6th St NE #102 1809 A St SE #1 1001 E Capitol St SE #1/2 315 12th St NE #201 218-A 3rd St NE #29 1453 A St NE #1453 11 2nd St NE #102 1391 Pennsylvania Ave SE #453 333 2nd St NE #305 105 6th St SE #202

$834,000 $633,000 $570,000

1 1 1

$1,450,000 $1,100,000 $1,090,000 $1,020,000 $974,030 $847,000 $765,000 $650,000 $621,000 $446,000 $439,053 $307,000 $282,500 $260,000 $249,000

4 3 3 3 2 3 2 2 2 1 1 0 0 0 0

CAPITOL RIVERFRONT 1211 Van St SE #1111 1211 Van St SE #416

CENTRAL

1155 23rd St NW #7G 616 E St NW #211 631 D St NW #1126 1133 14th St NW #710 1121 24th St NW #210

2 0

$1,695,000 $750,000 $660,000 $495,000 $275,000

2 2 2 1 0

$1,150,000 $1,130,000 $1,075,000 $1,035,000 $1,005,000 $942,500 $899,900 $895,000 $859,000 $819,900 $749,000 $739,900 $725,000 $710,000 $680,000 $655,000 $640,000 $615,000 $600,000 $500,000 $495,000 $479,381 $475,000 $470,000 $431,000 $429,000 $420,000 $399,999 $390,000

NOW IS THE TIME TO REFRESH,

RENEW AND REPAINT THE HOME YOU LOVE. Your home – it’s now a place that serves you in many different ways. Inside and outside, your home is a place of refuge where you can feel comfortable and safe. Let CertaPro Painters® of Washington D.C. serve you and your home by painting it with the care and attention to detail that only a local neighborhood company can offer. We focus on the right things to make your home improvement experience easy and worry-free. Schedule your FREE estimate today and let us help you refresh your home.

$200 OFF

YOUR NEXT PAINTING PROJECT * **Offer applies to your residential painting project of $2,500 or more. Must be presented at time of estimate. Not valid with other offers. Not valid on current estimates or proposals. ExpireCertaPro Painters® of Washington DC. Expires 03/31/22.

$809,900 $329,900

COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 756 Princeton Pl NW ##2 1454 Belmont St NW #14 1201 Kenyon St NW #4 1214 Fairmont St NW #3 1336 Meridian Pl NW #2 3212 13th St NW #2 3212 13th St NW #1 2717 Sherman Ave NW #2 3039 16th St NW #401 3004 13th St NW #2 3585 13th St NW #1 732 Columbia Rd NW #2 1300 Taylor St NW #304 1444 Harvard St NW #301 3043 15th St NW #5 3523 14th St NW #6 2914 11th St NW #103 1308 Clifton St NW #312 3404 13th St NW #102 2910 Georgia Ave NW #402 1308 Clifton St NW #116 1444 Harvard St NW #202 1435 Chapin St NW #108 1444 Harvard St NW #201 3318 Sherman Ave NW #206 2518 13th St NW #4 1450 Harvard St NW #C 1527 Park Rd NW #B1 907 Euclid St NW #103

4 2 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 2 1 1 2 1

202-849-7050 certapro.com/washington-dc Each CertaPro Painters ® business is independently owned and operated.

G G ROOFING

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

Flat Roof Specialists • Modified Bitumen • Skylights • Shingles • Slate •

Chimney Repairs • Roof Coatings • Gutters & Downspouts • Preventive Maintenance • Metal Roofs •

EXCELLENCE IN EVERY STROKE

BRIGHTEN UP YOUR YEAR WITH SOME NEW COLORS Exterior & Interior Painting

Clean, prompt and friendly service with a history of repeat customers

10% OFF WITH THIS AD

202.425.1614 WWW.GANDGHOMEIMPROVEMENTS.NET

Licensed & Insured | All Work Managed & Inspected by Owners

CALL TODAY TO GET STARTED!

202.543.1914

Imagepainting.com March 2022 ★ 51

Keith Roofing

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

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

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

All Work Inspected by Owner...Deals Directly with Customers! All Work Fully Guaranteed

DOWNTOWN

Real Estate

Attention Condos, Coops, HOAs, Apartment Owners, Homeowners, & Investors:

Full service property management offering direct depositing, online 24 hr record viewing, budgeting, funds management & special accounts, delinquent notices & collections, building inspections, project & maintenance bidding, project planning, contract monitoring, renting/ leasing (new D.C. law), tenant screening, and more.

210 7th Street, SE, Suite 100

monarchtitle.net

734 7th St. SE o: 202.547.2707 f: 202.547.1977 joeltruitt.com info@joeltruitt.com

A new deck fit for a garden — imagine your rear porch...

52 ★ HILLRAG.COM

612 Eastern Ave NE #102 612 Eastern Ave NE #202 920 I St NW #715

DUPONT CIRCLE 1280 21st St NW #304 1401 17th St NW #814 1416 21st St NW #L2 1904 R St NW #5 1711 Massachusetts Ave NW #231 1612 16th St NW #2 1001 Monroe St NW #1 1318 22nd St NW #302 1730 New Hampshire Ave NW #9 1718 P St NW #720 1808 S St NW #4 1808 S St NW #3 1808 S St NW #1

ECKINGTON

1500 Harry Thomas Way NE #508 1500 Harry Thomas Way NE #313 1500 Harry Thomas Way NE #311 1500 Harry Thomas Way NE #104 1500 Harry Thomas Way NE #105 1500 Harry Thomas Way NE #106 1500 Harry Thomas Way NE #110 1952 3rd St NE #202 50 Florida Ave NE #409 306 Todd Pl NE #1 303 Seaton Pl NE #1 3813 V St SE #201

FORT LINCOLN

Also additions, basements, whole houses, windows & doors restored or made in our shop, kitchen & bath designers, cabinets, counter tops, built-ins, etc. design & build firm.

3118 Cherry Rd NE #36 2817 31st Pl NE #2817

HILL EAST 216 21st St NE #1

LOGAN CIRCLE

Quality Since 1972

1010 Mass. Ave NW #308 1445 N St NW #102 1010 Mass. Ave NW #PH202 1737 11th NW #200 1410 S St NW #1 27 Logan Cir NW #11 1306 O St NW #TH1 1445 N St NW #303 1207 N St NW #E 1317 11th St NW #5 1312 Mass. Ave NW #105 936 N St NW #3 910 M St NW #509

1 2 2

$100,000 $67,000

1 1

$110,000 $110,000

1 1

$2,300,000

$580,000 $480,000 $451,900 $445,000 $210,000 $1,000,000 $789,900 $460,000 $375,000 $330,000 $659,000 $579,000 $499,999

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

$999,900 $849,900 $844,900 $799,900 $799,900 $799,900 $794,900 $520,000 $505,000 $410,000 $357,000

3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 2 2

FAIRFAX VILLAGE

734 Seventh Street, SE Office: 202.547.2707 Fax: 202.547.1977 joeltruitt.com info@joeltruitt.com

3425 5th St SE #32 12 Galveston St SW #302

202-486-7359

p: 202.546.3100

$389,000 $320,000 $290,000

CONGRESS HEIGHTS

DEANWOOD

Because Local Experience Matters.

Management

1438 Columbia Rd NW #402 1438 Meridian Pl NW #102 1438 Meridian Pl NW #LL1

$169,900

$567,000 $380,000

4 3

$417,000

$640,000 $585,000 $2,000,000 $1,350,000 $1,280,000 $800,000 $775,000 $751,000 $560,000 $494,500 $429,000 $732,500 $649,000

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

1918 12th St NW #1

$1,015,000

MOUNT VERNON SQ 1110 6th St NW #3 424 M St NW #8 1112 5th Street NW #3 1112 5th Street NW #4 310 M St NW #5 1117 10th NW #301 475 K St NW #923

$815,000 $784,000 $630,000 $626,900 $375,000 $759,000 $590,000

2 2 2 2 1 2 1

$1,239,000 $904,900 $745,000 $519,900

2 2 2 1

$639,900

1826 Independence Ave SE #2 $799,000 1375 Maryland Ave NE #C $649,000 1391 Pennsylvania Ave SE #344 $409,000

3 1 1

NAVY YARD 70 N St SE #N701 37 L St SE #702 1300 4th St SE #408 70 N St SE #412

NOMA

50 Florida Ave NE #718

OLD CITY #1

OLD CITY #2

1527 12th St NW #4 1750 16th St NW #21 1402 Swann St NW #6 1505 8th St NW #2 555 Mass. Ave NW #718 1201 Q St NW #205 1930 N. Hampshire Ave NW #34 440 L St NW #507 1825 T St NW #103

PENN QUARTER 916 G St NW #402 631 D St NW #641 601 Pennsylvania Ave NW #801 777 7th St NW #312

$802,500 $760,000 $739,111 $685,000 $650,000 $650,000 $590,000 $495,000 $225,000

2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 0

$685,000 $662,500 $355,000 $337,500

2 2 0 1

RANDLE HEIGHTS 1907 Good Hope Rd SE #208

RLA (SW)

332 G St SW #501 761 3rd St SW #704 1101 3rd St SW #205

SHAW

516 M St NW #3 810 O St NW #206 1720 New Jersey Ave NW #403 1912 8th St NW #B 912 U St NW #605 910 M St NW #1002

$122,000

$715,000 $649,000 $280,000

3 3 0

$1,205,000 $799,900 $699,000 $675,000 $589,900 $518,000

3 2 2 2 1 1

SW WATERFRONT 71 G St SW #104 800 4th St SW #S524 800 4th St SW #S624 800 4th St SW #N323 240 M St SW #E811

$760,000 $379,900 $351,900 $295,000 $257,000

3 1 1 0 1

March 2022 ★ 53

OUR ADVERTISERS ARE EXPERTS IN HILL HOMES Please support them and let them know you found them in the Hill Rag!

54 ★ HILLRAG.COM

Al’s Twin Air Cooling & Heating

MacKay Roofing

Arkad Group

Michaliga Masonry

Art Garden Design

National Roofing

Bricklands

Newman’s Gallery & Custom Frames

Buffalo Company, LLC

Pletsch Plumbing, LLC

Capitol Tree Care, Inc.

Polar Bear Air Conditioning & Heating

Casey Trees

R. Thomas Daniel Roofing

CertaPro Painters - DC

Renaissance Development LLC

Clean Decisions Landscaping

Sanabria & Co.

Continental Movers

Sila Heating, Cooling & Plumbing

DC Sustainable Energy Utility

Standard Cleaning Services

Elite Foundation & Repairs

Sundance Contracting

Frager’s Hardware

Tech Painting Co.

G & G Roofing

Thomas Design Consultants

Ginkgo Gardens

Thomas Landscapes

Image Painting and Drywall

W.S. Jenks Hardware & Garden Center

J.A Services DMV

Watts the Damage Electrical

JF Meyer Contracting

Wentworth, Inc.

Joel Truitt Builders

Wilcox Electric

Keith Roofing

Window Washers, Inc.

Lisa & Leroy

Windows Craft, Inc.

Building Smart from the Start

THANK YOU TO MY CLIENTS My Clients Are Saying…

Interior Renovation and Space Planning Whether remodeling, new construction or simply rearranging your current layout we handle complex and simple projects with equal care.

TRINIDAD

1230 Queen St NE #1 1611 Levis St NE #1 1258 Holbrook Ter NE #1 804 21st St NE #4 1028 Bladensburg Rd NE #21 1137 Owen Pl NE #4 804 21st St NE #3 1137 Owen Pl NE #3 804 21st St NE #1 1156 Owen Pl NE #1 1028 Bladensburg Rd NE #01 1028 Bladensburg Rd NE #15 1028 Bladensburg Rd NE #39 1028 Bladensburg Rd NE #28 1629 L St NE #205 1233 Raum St NE #2

$635,000 $542,500 $520,000 $515,000 $479,900 $427,450 $417,500 $414,900 $394,900 $390,000 $375,000 $338,500 $325,000 $315,000 $275,000 $255,000

U STREET CORRIDOR 1931 16th St NW #2 1931 16th St NW #3 1111 W St NW #13 929 Florida Ave NW #7008 1330 Belmont St NW #202 2001 12th St NW #109 2020 12th St NW #517 2100 11th St NW #G06

$935,000 $900,000 $1,090,000 $737,500 $685,000 $675,000 $635,000 $430,000

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

We integrate the design and construction disciplines, so all your needs can be addressed with one point of contact. We keep costs in check and projects on time.

301 642 5182 o

derek@thomasdesignconsultants.com

CHECK OUR GALLERY AT: thomasdesignconsultants.com

Dare Johnson

2 3 2 2 2 2 1 1

Realtor® DC D: 202.957.2947 O: 202.545.6900 Dare@RealEstateOnTheHill.com www.RealEstateOnTheHill.com

COOP ADAMS MORGAN 1820 Clydesdale Pl NW #100 2707 Adams Mill Rd NW #204

DUPONT CIRCLE 1701 16th St NW #416 1701 16th St NW #238 1701 16th St NW #317 1701 16th St NW #142 1701 16th St. NW #529

LOGAN CIRCLE 1419 R St NW #31

NAVY YARD

1000 New Jersey Ave SE #1116 1000 New Jersey Ave SE #609

OLD CITY #2 1915 16th St NW #303

RLA (SW)

1311 Delaware Ave SW #S441 ◆

Dare has been my agent as both a seller and a buyer. In both roles, Dare has been exceptional. She (and her whole team at Compass) are really responsive and expertly manage both the process and the communication throughout the ups and downs of buying or selling a house. I have and would recommend her to anyone. - Karen J

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

$350,000 $340,000

1 1

$449,000 $445,000 $451,000 $374,500 $363,750

1 1 1 1 1

$700,000

$600,000 $399,000

2 1

$310,000

$159,500

PROFESSIONAL CLEANING AT AN AFFORDABLE RATE

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

$20Off Your First Clean NEW CLIENT SPECIAL

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

703-719-9850 703-447-5500

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

wentworthremodel.com 240.200.4802

standardcleaningservicesinc.com REFERENCES • BONDED & INSURED

March 2022 ★ 55

56 H HILLRAG.COM

capitol s ree s t

RECYCLING:

FROM BLUE BINS TO UNCERTAINTY Part One of a Four-Part Spotlight DC Investigation by Mark R. Smith

“There is no such thing as ‘away.’ So, when we throw anything away, it must go somewhere.” – Annie Leonard, executive director, Greenpeace USA

elinda, a resident of Northwest, considers herself a conscientious environmental citizen. Like many of her neighbors, she is troubled by climate change and the manner in which mankind has damaged the Earth. She wants to do her part to right that wrong by conscientiously recycling. Separating and placing her bottles, cans, paper and cardboard items into one of those ubiquitous blue bins that dot the city’s landscape seems like an easy way to help save the planet. However, the waste that Melinda and thousands of fellow District residents place in their bins every week with the best intentions might not be getting recycled. Funded by Spotlight DC, this four-part inves-

tigation of recycling will demonstrate how the District has failed to meet its own stated recycling objectives by sending items sorted by residents for recycling to landfills or incinerators. While much of what the city says is slated to be recycled has not ended up sorted and sold on what today is a healthy open market, guidance is offered on the website of the Department of Public Works (DPW).

Recycling Guidelines: The Reality The top link that’s highlighted in blue on that page is called The Mayor’s List of Recyclables and Compostables, which is better known as simply “The Mayor’s List.” It is available at

Residents line up to deposit recyclables and/or trash on a recent Saturday afternoon at the Fort Totten Solid Waste Transfer Station. Photo: Mark R. Smith

Although the Benning Road Solid Waste Transfer Station has been shuttered since mid-2021, residents can still drop oﬀ shredding on one Saturday per month; and gas, paint and other household hazardous waste chemicals on the other Saturdays. Photo: Mark R. Smith

https://dpw.dc.gov/recyclingcompostlist. Technically, all private residences and business are required to recycle as the list dictates. It contains a detailed list of what items are acceptable and which are not. The basic rundown is as follows: • Paper and cardboard, with a wide range of products eligible: They include corrugated (but unwaxed) cardboard; publications including newspapers, magazines and soft-cover books; paper bags, various office stationary and envelopes; and shredded paper. • Rigid plastic containers: beverage bottles, food containers, tubs and lids and produce containers. • Aluminum and steel packaging: aerosol cans, aluminum foil and pie pans and food and beverage containers. • Glass bottles and jars March 2022 ★ 57

CHUCK BURGER SELLING OR BUYING..... LET ME WORK FOR YOU! 218 3RD STREET NE SUITE B SPACIOUS TOWNHOUSE CONDOMINIUM IN THE HEART OF THE CAPITOL! Coveted Justice Court location this has all the room you need on two floors with 2BR/2.5BA. Feat. Hardwood Flrs, Fireplace, Sep Dining Area Storage Galore, TSK, W/ and PARKING! Compare great Location, Price, Size and Features to see the Value! Steps to the Hart Building, U.S Capitol, Supreme Court, Metro and all Capitol Hill has to offer. Come and See. Please Call for Several Exciting Listings and Buying Opportunities Coming this Summer!

Receive FREE Property Let’s work together to Analysis and Market Strategy develop your strategy for on Achieving Maximum Buying “Right” in this Value for your Home dynamic market

Direct Line: 202.258.5316

cburger@cbmove.com I www.chuckburger.com 202-547-3525 Office

350 7th Street, SE, Washington, D.C. 20003

Certified in ABR & SRIS I Licensed in DC, MD & VA

Workers on the late shift at WM’s Recycle America facility in Elkridge, Md., sort recyclables to rid the recycle stream of contaminated items. Photo: Mark R. Smith

Glass is accepted in blue bins, but goes to what’s called alternative daily cover at landfills. It isn’t recycled, since it is low-quality when collected in a single-stream system and because there are no glass recyclers in the mid-Atlantic. There are two ways in which the Mayor’s List informs the citizenry and businesses what’s desired: material type and packaging format. “It’s the simplest way to explain to the average person what’s expected to be recycled,” said Charlotte Dreizen, a former DPW employee who now works

as sustainability manager for a trade association in the city. The Mayor’s List is to be reviewed for possible updating at least every two years given evolving market conditions, with the most recent changes made in February 2021. “If anything placed with recycled items is deviant from what’s on the list,” Dreizen said, “the household or business is technically not in compliance.” Compliance is big part of this issue and while the DPW has not collected as many recyclable items as in-

One of the worst issues faced at a recycling facility, such as this WM location, concerns contaminants – most notably plastic bags – getting tangled in the equipment. Photo: Mark R. Smith

58 ★ HILLRAG.COM

tended in the blue bins, the Bowser administration is still attempting to go big to hit a diversion goal that more than a few insiders think it won’t be able to reach.

ZeroWasteDC: The Dream With a June Democratic Primary looming, Mayor Muriel Bowser’s administration is talking up its eventual waste diversion goals of 80 percent by 2032 via its Sustainable DC 2.0. The zero waste concept the mayor is touting is based on a set of principles that encourage the redesign of resource life cycles so that all products are reused. The goal is for no trash to be sent to landfills, incinerators or dumped in the ocean. The ZeroWasteDC legislation targets waste diversion by increasing organics diversion, improving the District’s now $11.1 million recycling program and promoting reuse and waste reduction. On its website, while acknowledging that there will be some materials that are not recoverable and will be sent to landfills or waste-to-energy facilities (incinerators), the ZeroWasteDC goal of 80 percent seems like a pie-in-the-sky figure, especially given that the District’s number currently generally hovers around 16 percent citywide, according to the Department of Public Works’ (DPW) own studies. The ZeroWasteDC dictum means 80 percent would be sent anywhere for higher or better use than a landfill or an incinerator, Dreizen points out. “I don’t think anyone realistically thinks that goal is possible.” While the new facilities will be a boost for the city, there’s a legal side at play, too. “Few places have ever reached such heights without innovative laws,” Dreizen said, noting that Belgium and Germany have been able to do so because “those countries require manufacturers to March 2022 ★ 59

.capitol streets.

nue) and at Lot 8 in the RFK Stadium parking lot. Historically, the public service has collected from 30,000-40,000 tons per year of single-stream (mixed) recyclables. There are approximately 116 recycling routes throughout the city and at the end of their routes, these days they all head to the same place: Fort Totten, which is the only transfer station in the city that’s in normal operation. Contaminated and inappropriate items from the WM recycling facility, in Elkridge, Md., are sent to Baltimore’s well-known BRESCO trash incinerator, which is a The private system dominant presence to motorists when they enter the city via Russell Street. serves the owners of large Photo: Mark R. Smith apartment buildings, as pay for recycling. Their citizens don’t pay and the well commercial propercost is picked up by the companies that produce ties. Landlords, community associations and busithe packaging.” ness owners are required by the city to provide reDreizen, who is known for her frequent recycling services through commercial solid waste cycling advice via Twitter and who often answers collectors, which are often the industry’s heavyquestions as to what items are recyclable, said that weights like WM and Republic Services (which the ZeroWaste Omnibus Amendment Act of 2020 recently purchased Tenleytown Trash), as well as represents “a great opportunity” for getting a solsome smaller private concerns. More than 100 haulid program foundation in place. “It’s not best in ers collect, haul and manage nearly 90 percent of class, but it’s a down payment on a commercial the city’s 1.13 million tons of waste. waste management program to properly recycle Neil Seldman, director, Waste to Wealth Initiafood waste and for glass.” tive with the Washington-based Institute for Local A glance under the reports category on the Self-Reliance, is among the observers who is imDPW’s ZeroWasteDC web page gives District citipressed with that first part of the operation in the zens access to Waste Characterization Studies from District. “DC has an excellent record of picking up 2021, which Dreizen called an “intrepid effort to materials for recycling, as well as breakdown. I comfigure out what’s being generated in the city by who pare it favorably to any city in the country, as far as and how much gets recycled.” The next most recent efficiency goes. The DPW are very good at that part entry, the Desktop Waste Characterization Study of what they do. for the District of Columbia, is dated 2017-18. The “But as for the next phase,” said Seldman, “the other entries are from 2018 or much earlier, with system is broken because of the lack of processone item dating back to 2002. ing capacity for waste at the two DC transfer staA key number from the perspective of the tions, one of which (Benning Road) was recently DPW concerns the number of homes it serves evcondemned. The reason is disinvestment. The city ery week, which exceeds 100,000 single-family and never invested in rudimentary maintenance.” multi-family dwellings of three units or less. The recyclables that are picked up by the DPW’s trucks are taken to Fort Totten, unloadRecycling: The Practice ed and immediately transferred into a third-party The DPW serves roughly 105,000 residences and transporter. The transporter uses its long-haul trailcollects roughly 10 percent of the city’s recycling ers to deliver the recyclables directly to the WM’s stream through the efforts of 80 workers who move 37,000-square-foot Recycle America facility in around the District in 24 trucks that are based out Elkridge, Md., which is DC’s currently contractof yards on W Street NE (off Rhode Island Aveed materials recovery facility (known as a MRF or 60 H HILLRAG.COM

“murph.” Republic’s MRF in Manassas, Va., serves as a back-up MRF for the city). Upon arrival in Elkridge, the cargo is weighed, then dumped on the tipping floor before proceeding to a conveyor belt. The next stop is the presort area, where a variety of items – which can be anything from dirty diapers to patio furniture to soccer balls, golf balls and bowling balls (and that’s just a very short list) – are removed, as are the unfortunately ubiquitous plastic grocery bags that are errantly filled with recyclables. The items then proceed along conveyor belts through sorting equipment and various separators for cardboard, paper and aluminum. The facility, which employs 170 workers (including more than 80 sorters) on two shifts, opened in 2006 and operates with older equipment that in some cases has been upgraded. Mike Taylor, WM area recycling operations director, said the single-stream approach means customers don’t need to separate items, which saves money on transport and handling and hopefully make it easier for the public to recycle. He added that the contamination rate at the facility is “about 15 percent, which is down about five percent from the level of recent years.” From that point, recyclable materials are baled, sold in the commodity market and shipped to manufacturers who get to the main point of turning the final product into new items, with contaminants sent to the Wheelabrator Baltimore Refuse Energy Systems Co. (BRESCO) plant in Baltimore for incineration. Will that still be the case when the new Benning Road facility comes on line? Construction is due to begin within a year. “When any new facility comes online, that could change the dynamic of the regional marketplace,” said Blake Adams, manager of the DPW’s Office of Waste Diversion. “We think that the investments the city is making in our facilities and the work that we’re doing to educate the public on recycling behaviors will allow us to reach our zero waste goals. However, that “will ultimately require two things,” said Adams. “Strong policy and planning and the infrastructure to support new programs.”

Next Up The Hill Rag’s four-part series about recycling efforts in the District will continue with the second installment next month, which will be an examina-

tion of the city’s public recycling system for single family and small multi-unit dwellings. It will delve into what happens to that plastic bottle that Melinda just tossed into her blue bin, where it’s dropped off and its final destination. It will query public officials about their role in managing the system and delve into how their efforts live up to the rhetoric. In May, the third report will focus on what happens when city residents who live in apartments and condos, as well as businesses, toss those plastic bottles into their recycle bins and where haulers large and small take it for processing and the end of its journey. The final installment in the series, set for June, will look to the future. What best practices are being used around the region, the U.S. and world and how can the city leverage what it knows and turn it into practical improvements for the local efforts? Might legislative action imminent assist in reforming or even reinventing recycling as we know it now? Mark R. Smith is a freelance writer based in Odenton, Md. He writes for The Business Monthly, in Columbia, Md., where he also served as editorin-chief for almost 15 years; earlier, he spent 16 years contributing to The Daily Record, in Baltimore. He has also recently worked for Expansion Solutions, the Georgetown University Law Center and the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, as well as many other publications during the past three decades.

This article was supported by a grant from the Spotlight DC: Capitol City Fund for Investigative Journalism. Spotlight DC encourages the submission for proposals by independent journalists. For more information, visit www.spotlightdc.org. u

TAE KWON DO SPOTS AVAILABLE

STARTING AT AGE 4 AND UP 10’ SOCIAL DISTANCING. FULLY MASKED. 6TH & EYE ST., NE. - PARKING • MASTERGUTMAN@GMAIL.COM

March 2022 H 61

.capitol streets.

/ Our River: The Anacostia /

BUZZARD POINT What Can We Expect? Article and photos by Bill Matuszeski condominiums will include commercial spaces with food stores, joins it from the right. The view continues entertainment and restaurants on ground level. straight past Haines Point where the Anacostia joins the Potomac, with the airport, Moving Forward Alexandria and sunsets in view on the disAt this point, there are a number of broad issues that need to be tant shoreline. kept in mind as Buzzard Point fills up and visitors begin arriving to There is a marina, a water-front resenjoy the new places and the waters of the Anacostia. taurant and both bike and walking trails First, the established low-mid-income residential neighborthere at the end of Buzzard Point. All four hood to the north in Southwest needs to be respected and protectare a surprise to come across after walking ed. This has many challenging aspects including avoiding major blocks of open land, parking lots, a massive increases in traffic passing through the neighborhood by encourpowerplant remnant, and occasional high aging access via South Capitol Street; and most important, prorises – some conversions of vacant office tecting the range and spread of incomes in neighborhoods to the buildings, some under construction. north. At the same time, access to the water and associated new faThe early history of Buzzard Point cilities by those same neighborhood residents should be encourdiffers somewhat from the other parts of aged. I am not saying any of this will be easy, but it must be in mind the Anacostia shoreline. The area from as the area develops. earliest times had been for the most part Second, the developers of the new properties in Buzzard Point ignored by the City. There were small are to sign voluntary agreements to manage the volume and qualifarms raising fruits and vegetables for loty of rainwater and other water sources from their properties into cal consumption, small industries needstreets, open areas and stormwater and sanitary sewer lines. These ing materials delivered by water, but a lot are low land areas and converting open land to areas with extenof vacant land to absorb the refuse of the sive impermeable surfaces means that flooding could result on a city. One explanation for the name is that Looking Upstream at the New S. Capitol St. Douglas regular basis if steps to handle runoff are not taken. There should folks would drag their dead horses down Bridge from near the end of Buzzard Point be a way for the public to be engaged with the Department of Enand leave them for the buzzards to consume. Then industries beuzzard Point, the area on the gan to appear that would benwest side of the Anacostia River efit from raw materials delivered below the new Frederick Dougby boat and production for use in las South Capitol Street Bridge, the nearby urban areas – sand, ceis undergoing massive change. ment, building materials, electric While the aim is to make it seem like a continpower, etc. uation of the very popular Yards Park to the Now things are really beginnorth of the bridge, its history and look today ning to change as more and more give it some special challenges and opportunew projects get underway on Buznities. Forbes Magazine predicts that the rezard Point. The area has become stored Buzzard Point will be “the final jewel” part of the Capitol Riverfront Busiin Our River’s crown. While that may be an ness Improvement District, which overstatement, there is a lot going on. covers most of the area north of the The area is only about three city blocks bridge, including all the developwide running from Half Street near the River ment near the water to the Navy to Second Streets SE along the boundary wall Yard. The soccer stadium is open of Fort McNair. It starts below the established to uses by the nearby neighborneighborhood on Q St. SW and ends a couple hoods to the north as well as home hundred yards past V St. SW, where it looks games. Apartment buildings and out over River and the Washington Channel Sign for High-Rise Development Next to the Old Buzzard Point Powerplant

62 H HILLRAG.COM

Mural Along the Powerplant Wall Next to the Soccer Stadium

ergy and Environment to assure these V-CAPS (Voluntary Clean-up Action Plans) are completed by developers and are found to be effective. Finally, there needs to be in place adequate measures and controls for the increases in air pollution during and after the construction of buildings and facilities on Buzzard Point to assure that the nearby neighborhoods are protected from violations. These increases can emerge from construction equipment, increased vehicles and related building heating, cooling and other discharges. There should be means for citizen access to this data.

Challenges So we can see there are special aspects and challenges to the emergence of Buzzard Point as part of the restored Anacostia River and its shoreline. We need to think how we can use these historic and emerging conditions to come up with unique ways of dealing with complex problems that emerge. For example: (1) How can we use the past to show how Buzzard Point is a special place? Can we assure adequate open spaces are kept by enjoying stories about the farms and orchards from the past? How did all those old industries serve our City and what replaced them? (2) How do we build on the iso-

lation of Buzzard Point to teach about its potential impacts today on nearby neighborhoods we want to protect? What does it mean for directing traffic and controlling air pollution and flooding? (3) How do we keep the focus on the water? Part of what will be needed is pressure on landowners to give up land for public access to the water for boats, for views, and for everything in between. That requires constant efforts to identify vistas, boat access and storage, and hiking and biking trails that connect with upriver. With its rather wild history of land uses and abuses, combined with today’s spectacular views, opportunities for public engagement including parks and wading areas, and emerging entertainment, but still with a sense of isolation, Buzzard Point could become a special place to come to enjoy life in many modes. Maybe Forbes Magazine is right! Buzzard Point just might become the final jewel in the crown of the Anacostia River! Bill Matuszeski is a member of the Mayor’s Leadership Council for a Cleaner Anacostia River, and the retired Director of the Chesapeake Bay Program. He also serves on the board of Friends of the National Arboretum and on Citizen Advisory Committees for the Chesapeake and the Anacostia. ◆

Over 95% of my business are past client clients or their referrals who come back to me time and time again. “I am certain we had the best real estate agent in the DMV! When issues arose from the home inspection, Linda knew all the right people to get things done well and quickly. She was available for calls, emails, and texts at any hour (including weekends)... Linda tells it to you straight and gives you sound advice. She definitely had our best interest at heart. Linda, we are truly grateful for your professionalism, knowledge, and connections!” – John and Miguella

LINDA PETTIE @ 202-276-3172 CELL Main Office @ 202-547-3525 Direct @ 202-741-1770

www.pettietubbs.com Coldwell Banker Realty 350 7th ST SE Washington, DC 20003 Washingtonian Award Winner 2016-2021

Linda is in the top 1% of Coldwell Banker Agents Worldwide

Michael Tubbs is alive and well and enjoying retirement. He can be reached at 202-487-7206.

March 2022 ★ 63

.capitol streets.

CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY ACHIEVEMENT AWARDEES 2022 by Stephanie Deutsch

their concerns. But she soon decided she needed more and enrolled at the University of California at Berkeley in the engineering department, becoming one of very few women there and specializing in the study of metals, in particular steel and aluminum. That led to advanced study at Washington State and, in 1983, to George Washington University. There she learned that the Office of Technology Assessment, created in 1975, was looking for someone with expertise in strategically important materials, among them metals. She was in the right place at the right time and was employed there until the office was shut down, a victim of budget tightening in the Newt Gingrich years. She later worked at the Department of Transportation, editing annual statistical reports and learning more about how government works. CHCF 2022 Honoree Group. From left to right; Sah Brown, Michael and Joan A colleague said of Kirsten that she is Kim, and Kirsten Oldenberg effective because she puts in a lot of time and takes pains to understand a variety of work with the federal government when the fire and points of view. He says it takes humility to focus on its aftermath grabbed her attention. She found herself Kirsten Oldenberg the small, quality of life issues that make up the bulk of writing checks but also volunteering her time to help As the seat of our national government, Capitol Hill the work of ANC Commissioners. Unlike some who raise funds in support of the displaced merchants. is a place where we occasionally see nationally known serve in that role, Kirsten has never seen this position When, shortly after that, the seat as commissioner for figures on the street, at a restaurant, picking up dry as a stepping stone to something bigger. It is valuANC 6B-04 became vacant in the middle of a term cleaning or in line at a coffee shop. That person waitable for what it is, in Kirsten’s words “the bottom rung she was invited to fill it. At the next election she was ing for a latte at Peregrine Coffee could be Secretary of democracy.” the only candidate for that spot and she won. Initially, of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, but it might just as she says, she didn’t know much and “kept my mouth Michael and Joan Kim well be Kirsten Oldenburg, who since 2009 has represhut” but since then she has attended monthly meetWhen Michael Kim first walked into Grubb’s Pharsented ANC 6B, faithfully attending multiple monthings of the Commission as well as regular meetings of macy on the corner of 4th and East Capitol Street ly meetings and dealing with potholes, liquor licensthe Transportation subcommittee, which she chairs. in 1997, as a pharmacy student reporting for a partes, traffic lights, zoning, historic preservation, public Being an effective ANC representative requires time job, he thought the place looked old, dingy, and parks, noise, bike lanes – anything and everything patience, tact and a willingness to take the time to lisrun down. And, indeed, there has been a pharmacy of concern to her neighbors. It’s not the stuff of the ten to constituents, as well as understanding complex on the site since 1867. The facility was old, but he nightly news but it is an essential part of self-governand often tedious regulations, skills she had learned in quickly noticed something that set it apart in a posment – unglamorous, unpaid, and meaningful. various jobs. As the daughter of a petroleum engineer, itive way from the sleek pharmacies at chain stores The catalyst for Kirsten’s involvement with loshe had grown up in many places – Houston, Caracas, where he had previously worked. He was struck by cal government was the fire in April of 2007 that seYonkers, and Berkeley. Graduating from high school the interaction of owner Ed Dillon and his staff with verely damaged the much-loved, over a century-old in the late 50s, she originally went to secretarial school their customers, the personal relationships that proEastern Market building. She had been living on the rather than college. During a stint as a travel agent, duced a level of care unlike what he was used to. Hill for almost 25 years and was recently retired from she learned to work with people and pay attention to ach spring, the Capitol Hill Community Foundation recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to our neighborhood in a wide variety of ways, honoring them with Community Achievement Awards. Among those so honored have been teachers, business owners, real estate agents, political leaders, musicians and artists as well as the kind of engaged, involved citizens who get ideas of ways to enhance our lives together and then make them happen. This is a tradition that goes back to 1984 with just one interruption – last year the honorees were those who had been chosen the year before, when the celebration honoring them had to be cancelled due to Covid. Last spring a virtual celebration replaced the usual gala dinner at the Folger Library. This year’s honorees are, as always, a cross section of the people who give our neighborhood the flavor so many of us love.

64 H HILLRAG.COM

In 2006, with his wife Dr. Joan Kim, he purchased Grubb’s and together they are committed to maintaining and strengthening that bond with the community they serve. Michael and Joan Kim are both of Korean heritage though with very different stories. He was born in Korea but he and his parents immigrated to the States when he was a small child. He grew up in Laurel, Maryland, attended the University of Maryland and Howard University School of Pharmacy. By his own admission, he is less than fluent in academic Korean. Joan grew up in Seoul, South Korea but spent four years of her childhood in New York when her father was representing a Korean steel company in the U.S. When she was a college student her father’s work again brought him to the U.S. and so Joan came too, attending college here and getting a degree from St. John’s University School of Pharmacy. She is lively and talkative in both Korean and English. Fate seems to have destined Michael and Joan for each other. Each had an early marriage that brought them two children but ended – hers with the death of her husband, his by divorce. They found each other on Match.com and, despite the fact that she was then living in Manhattan and he in Laurel, they met for a visit to Washington, DC and married in 2003. They quickly had two more children, giving them a total of six, now aged from 15 to 26. A son and a daughter are in pharmacy school. All the children have helped out in various ways at Grubb’s. The last few years have, of course, been challenging ones. Grubb’s was one of the first sites in DC to partner with HHS to offer Covid testing and then, as they became available, vaccines. Just as these arrangements were being made, the George Floyd death in June 2020 brought violent protests to cities across the country including D.C. Like other pharmacies, Grubb’s was hit hard, its windows smashed, drugs taken, merchandize scattered. The front of the store was boarded up for weeks. But it was a moment of intense connection with Capitol Hill. The Kims were moved when a neighbor offered to pay for needed repairs to the building. “People rallied round us,” Joan remembers. Since then, Grubb’s has created an outdoor pop-up that allows them to offer testing and vaccines, serving long lines of people every day, staying open late sometimes to accommodate demand for tests, offering cocoa to children waiting anxiously to get vaccines. Another challenge of Covid has been finding and retaining reliable staff. In order to make the workplace both more inviting and healthier, the Kims have

introduced an hour-long closing at lunch time, from noon to one pm, a change that initially angered some of their customers. But they insisted and now encourage their employees to take that break. They created a comfortable lunch room upstairs above the pharmacy as well as a space where employees can relax and, if they want, do yoga. What Joan and Michael enjoy on their lunch break is, according to her, “just taking a walk, looking at the plants and flowers and trees.” They love getting to know the neighborhood and the neighbors. Many people, they find, have never been to Grubb’s. Chance encounters offer them the opportunity to introduce themselves and tell about the constantly expanding number of services and products they offer.

Sah Brown Sah Brown, the principal of Eastern High School, is tall – very tall – so it’s no surprise to hear that he grew up loving basketball and hoping he might find a way to make it a career. He played in high school on Long Island where he grew up; he was recruited to play ball at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania where he majored in political science and loved both the education and the sport. But after two years in the NBA minor leagues, with brief stints in Mexico and China, he decided to, as he puts it, “deflate the ball and focus on other pursuits.” He had a roommate from college here in D.C. so he came to the city and began working at a bank. As a sideline he offered to go to schools to teach financial literacy. Then, at the bank where he worked, he ran into the principal of a school he had visited. “Have you ever considered teaching?” the principal asked him and then suggested he apply to a program called D.C. Teaching Fellows, an alternative route to careers in education. Getting a Master’s in Special Education and Education Administration while working as a Teaching Fellow at Anacostia High School, Sah found that he had been “bit by the education bug.” Although he had harbored the hope that teaching might at some point lead him back to basketball as a coach, the connections he was making with students and fellow teachers were compelling. After serving as Special Education coordinator at Margaret Murray Washington High School he moved into administration at Cesar Chavez Public Charter School, Hardy Middle School, Cardozo and Roosevelt High School. “I had found where I needed to be,” he remembers. In 2016 Sah Brown was named principal of Eastern High School on Capitol Hill (1700 East Capitol St. NE). Brown remembers his first Eastern graduation

as particularly thrilling. Watching students cross the auditorium stage and receive their diplomas, feeling that they were ready to go out into the world was, he thought “the pinnacle of what this job is about.” Another favorite memory was Walk to School Day with the Eastern Marching Band accompanying a group of students and faculty walking back from Lincoln Park to the school, greeting neighbors and friends along the way. An upbeat person who, as he says, always tries to find the “silver lining,” Brown remembers with pride and humility the ceremony planned by students after the 2018 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. They held a gathering on the football field where the school community – students, faculty and staff – linked arms, observed a moment of silence and then released 18 balloons in honor of those whose lives had been lost in the shooting. Asked about dealing with Covid over the last two years, Sah Brown says he prefers to think of the situation less in terms of “challenges” and more in terms of “opportunities.” The pandemic brought to the fore the urgent need for greater mastery of technology as a tool that could be used to help all students find their own pace to move through curriculum. It also presented an opportunity for Eastern to redefine its core values. They are Passion, Respect, Innovation, Determination and Excellence. “In times of challenge,” says Sah Brown, “you need passion.” For the passion and promise he has brought to a historic D.C. high school, one which next year will celebrate its centennial, Sah Brown is being given the annual Steve Cymrot “Spark” award. Steve was a founder of the Capitol Hill Community Foundation, a tireless and imaginative volunteer for neighborhood activities, a generous donor to local institutions, a man who left us too soon but who still gives off sparks of inspiration. Kirsten Oldenburg, Drs Michael and Joan Kim, and Sah Brown will be honored at a festive garden party at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church on Tuesday, May 24. Also presented at that event will be the annual Arnold F. Keller Award of $25,000 to the Story of Our Schools for a display at Eastern High School on the occasional of its centennial in 2023 and the first annual John Franzén Award for the Arts to the Chiarina Chamber Players in support of a series of educational concerts this fall by the Attacca Quartet, a New Yorkbased chamber Group. Tickets for the garden party and awards ceremony will be available on line beginning on April 1 at www.capitolhillcommunityfoundation.org. u

March 2022 H 65

.capitol streets.

TOM RALL SAYS FAREWELL TO EASTERN MARKET “For Me, It Was Always About the People”

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

t was my life’s work,” Tom Rall said, doors. “Attendance was always shoulder-tospeaking of the Flea Market at Eastern shoulder and vendors did very well,” rememMarket, which he helped establish and exbers McCarty. In addition to Kashmir Boupand. “To me it means relationships with tiques, other local businesses that incubated hundreds of wonderful people, going back at the Flea Market include Silk Road and Chathrough dozens of years.” teau Animeaux, which under current ownerYou probably know Tom Rall, even if you ship became Howl to the Chief. don’t know you do. He is the man in the hat, Shake Up the Eastern Market seller who until last DecemSoon, the lively Sunday markets began to draw ber could be found every weekend on Seventh the attention of the Eastern Market managers. St. near Pennsylvania Ave. SE behind a table Until 1991, the market itself, operating out of full of antique maps and prints. the South Hall, had been closed on Sundays; But don’t let his place at the end of the now, with so much going on, they decided to street fool you. Rall helped give the market a open all weekend. new beginning. For more than 35 years from Brady Rall, Tom Rall and Michael Berman in front of The Flea Market When the market opened on Sundays, 1984 to 2011, Tom Rall organized Sunday at Eastern Market, Sunday, Feb. 6, 2022. Photo: E. O’Gorek/CCN the farmers began to sell on Sundays too. That vending near Eastern Market, bringing venProject in 2009 that the two made a deal and shook meant a shake up; Rall had to find space for dors from all over the country and the world hands on it. those of his vendors displaced from under the farmer’s to Capitol Hill and changing the nature of the market “That was a 20-year handshake. Two guys lost canopy or blocking entrances to the building. and the neighborhood. His work would help found in the ’60s!” Harrod laughed, recounting the moment. Rall approached Principal Princess Whitfield of multiple businesses and impact many lives. “And you’ve seen what he’s done.” Hine Junior High School, located between 7th and But, he said, the biggest impact was on his own. 8th streets on Pennsylvania Avenue SE, asking if the Founding The Flea Market Coming to DC Flea Market could lease the parking lot on Sundays. That began some heady days. Rall named his enHailing from Middleport, Ohio, Rall graduated from Whitfield agreed and so Rall’s Flea Market would hapterprise The Flea Market at Eastern Market and imKent State in 1969. A conscientious objector, he came pen at Hine for the next 26 years, until it was surplantmediately began to advertise the market and recruit to DC to take an alternate service position with the ed by development in 2015. vendors. Within two or three years, the Sunday Flea United Methodist Church, leaving behind a career as The changing scene throughout the ‘80s and Market filled the North Hall and the open spaces una journalist. He moved on to work with the South‘90s, both at the market and in the neighborhood overder the farmer’s canopy and started to wrap around ern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), later all, fed competing visions for Eastern Market. Eastern the market on C Street SE. Market Community Advisory Committee (EMCAC) working to organize a union at the State Department. Rall and his vendors lived their lives at the marChair Donna Scheeder recalls how Rall worked with Later, Rall turned to the antique business, finding ket; in 1988, he and his wife, Debbi, were married in local artist Michael Berman to ensure that the outdoor treasures in the Shenandoah and selling them at urban the North Hall. Their children were market babies, markets would remain part of that vision, working to venues like the Georgetown Flea Market. In 1978, a spending weekends playing with one another between ensure safeguards for the outdoor markets were built Capitol Hill friend asked him to do a benefit auction tables and stalls, recalls Tom’s son, Brady. “There’s a into Eastern Market legislation in the late 1990s. at Market 5, the gallery managed by John Harrod in handful of us second-generation kids who grew up In 2004, Rall officially asked Berman to help him Eastern Market’s North Hall. here on the weekends.” After that success, Rall began regular Saturday run the markets, and the two formed Diverse Mar”Overall, those were great years,” remembered auctions at Market 5, until in 1983, Harrod asked him ket Managements (DMM). They organized the downPat McCarthy. She and her husband, David Mahajan, if he wanted to begin selling his antiques on Sundays. town Holiday Market and later markets in Crystal City, own Kashmir Boutiques (760 C St. SE), but they got Rall found he was often the only Sunday exhibiPenn Quarter and Southwest. By 2007, Rall said, their start selling garments from the Kashmir region tor, so he asked Harrod if he could manage the Sunday DMM was managing 200 exhibitors at the Eastern at the Sunday Flea Market, now right outside their markets for him. Harrod told the Capitol Hill History Market alone, and seeing as many as 20,000 people a

66 H HILLRAG.COM

Tom Rall at his stand at Eastern Market.

day walk through the market. “It wouldn’t be here without him,” Berman, who is now the President of DMM, said of Rall’s influence on the market. “He was instrumental in keeping it alive, expanding it and bringing in new businesses to a community of artists and vendors that would not exist without him.” Scheeder said that Rall played a key role in creating the personal experience central to the experience of shopping at Eastern Market. ”Tom is a great example of fostering that that sense of community,” Scheeder said. “Although the Hill has undergone substantial gentrification since I moved here in 1970, the market has kept its character and that is partly due to the work of Tom.”

Through the Fire On a cold day in February 2007, Hill residents woke to find out the Eastern Market building had burned nearly to the ground. The fire devastated the building and reshaped the markets around it. When the newly-renovated market building reopened in 2009, the city had taken over market management. Going forward, the Department of General Services (DGS) would manage the indoor merchants and the North Hall. That meant the end of the lease with Harrod and of Market 5, and an end to the arrangements Harrod had organized with the flea markets, including those Rall organized on the plaza around the market building. Rall still has feelings about the loss of part of the market he founded. Now, although over the years he has developed a friendly relationship with market management, he wonders if he

should have fought harder. “It was my life’s work,” he said, “and the city took it over without any compensation.” But that market continues to flourish, said Eastern Market Manager Barry Margeson, crediting Rall and John Harrod. “Together, they built a community of the most diverse people that anyone could find; good people who work together and understand how our differences can create strength and vibrancy,” Margeson said. “That vibrancy remains a hallmark at historic Eastern Market today.” DMM continued to operate a market on the Hine playground, moving onto Seventh Street SE in 2015 when construction began on the development that currently occupies the block. Upon completion in 2017 they moved to the privately-owned C Street SE Plaza, where they can currently be found Sundays from March to December. Rall sold DMM to Berman in 2011, taking a place on the board of the company and returning to vending on the street.

Rall Over the World Though Tom is retiring, there will still be a Rall at Eastern Market. Sure, you can find Rall Sr. at Tunnicliff ’s Tavern most Sundays, where DMM holds board meetings over brunch. But the vending tradition continues. Brady Rall will continue his father’s work this season, selling antique prints and maps from all over the world. In his 2009 interview with the Capitol Hill History Project, Rall said that some vendors were so devoted to the exhibitor community that they literally worked the market until their last week of life. “And I had been hopeful that I would be able to do that,” he laughed. But now, in 2022, Rall says he has “a bucket list to get to.” There’s one state (Hawaii) and two or three continents he hasn’t been to; he’d like to increase the time he spends in Jamaica from two weeks to a month every year; and he wants to spend more of his time in museums and theaters. For nearly 40 years, Tom Rall brought the world to Eastern Market. Now, it is time we give him back to the world. ◆

Aden Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Fekri Munasar DDS Tawann P Jackson DDS Akram Munasar DDS

202-547-7772

650 Pennsylvania Ave SE #460 Washington, DC 20003 adendentistry@gmail.com March 2022 ★ 67

.capitol streets.

/ In Memorium /

ROBERT LOUIS STAPLES Furniture and Museum Exhibition Designer by Barbara Fahs Charles

obert “Bob” Staples, resident of Capitol Hill for forty-eight years, died on November 30, 2021, at the age of eightyeight. Staples was a student at the University of Southern California in 1957 when his industrial design professor insisted that he pursue an opening at the Office of Charles and Ray Eames. Initially reluctant, as he had a good job drafting airplane parts, Staples showed his portfo-

Bob Staples, 2003.

lio to Don Albinson, senior designer at the Eames studio, and was hired part-time, as Staples would say, “to carve patterns and sweep the floor.” A year later, Staples abandoned his formal education to work full time in the intense studio environment, quickly learning the Eames’ methodology of decision making and obsession for details. Staples often described carving the first wooden pattern for casting the “antler” (support) under the seat 68 H HILLRAG.COM

of the Herman Miller Aluminum Group chair and reviewing it with Albinson and Charles Eames. And, then a second, and third, and fourth—eight antlers in total, each with slight requested modifications. Having gone full circle, the first antler pattern was selected. By 1961, Staples was the senior three-dimensional designer responsible for the development of Tandem Seating to be introduced at Dulles Airport in 1962. It is still in production and used in airports worldwide. Staples shares the technical patFormer President Gerald Ford listening as Bob Staples explained his concept for a model that would show the inner workings of the White House. Also pictured is Barbara Fahs Charles ent for Tandem Seating with Charles Eames. Beginning with leaving the Eames Office after sixteen years to start his own firm, StaMathematica in 1961, the focus of the ples & Charles Ltd. on Capitol Hill with Barbara Fahs Charles, also Eames Office was increasingly on exhian Eames alumna. bitions. Working on Jawaharlal Nehru: Staples & Charles Ltd., interpretive planners and designers for His Life and His India was a transformamuseums, was launched in August 1973 in the third-floor apartment tive experience. Staples was sent to the above what is now Tunnicliff ’s Tavern opposite Eastern Market. A few National Institute of Design in Ahmedmonths later, the studio and Bob Staples and Barbara Charles, perabad, India, in October 1964 to deliver sonally, relocated to 510 11th St. SE, around the corner from Frager’s photographic equipment and bring back Hardware, then still owned by the Frager brothers George and Julius. drawings for the exhibition to be fabriAs the studio expanded throughout the townhouse, Bob and Barbara cated in the US for a late January 1965 restored and moved to 214 4th St. SE in the early 1980s, where they opening in New York City. The ten-day trip lived for thirty years. In 1995, when still more space was required, Staexpanded to ten weeks when the decision ples & Charles Ltd. took over an old warehouse in Alexandria, while was made to build everything in India and Bob and Barbara continued to live on 4th St. SE. Staples, together with Kumar Vyas, design Staples & Charles Ltd., one of the earliest studios to specialprofessor at NID, orchestrated the final deize exclusively on designs for museums, worked initially on Smithsigns and supervised production by myrisonian projects, but quickly expanded nationally and internationalad Indian craftsmen. Staples was lead dely. The office was never large, and Staples was always hands-on as signer for Photography and the City at the the lead three-dimensional designer, testing elements out in his shop Smithsonian (1968), Computer Perspecand producing beautifully thought-out drawings for fabrication for tive at IBM in NYC (1971), and concept such projects as the World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta, The Sixth Floor designer for Franklin & Jefferson, before in Dallas, the South African World of Beer in Johannesburg, the re-

installation of virtually all of the Detroit Institute of Arts, and the Visitor Center and mountaintop interpretation at Monticello. Two of his later projects, echoing back to his years of furniture design, involved rethinking Louis Kahn’s “demountable museum walls” to retain their aesthetics, yet significantly improve functionality, first for Yale University Art Gallery, then for the Yale Center of British Art, Staples’ last museum project. In 2007, Bob and Barbara bought the small commercial building with a balcony at 731 8th St. SE on Barracks Row, with the idea of creating a fourth-floor apartment with an elevator for senior living and studio space on a lower floor. Staples worked closely with Andrew Singletary of SiRu Architects on the overall building concepts, while executing the interior designs himself. After five years of historic preservation and zoning reviews and construction delays, June 1, 2012, became move-in day for both Staples & Charles Ltd. and Bob and Barbara personally. The apartment, a testament to Staples’ design philosophy, was a surprise hit of the 2016 Capitol Hill Restoration Society House and Garden Tour. Beyond design, Staples had a passion and discerning eye for ephemera, which he collected and enjoyed using in exhibitions. The Ephemera Society of America gave Staples and Charles the Maurice Rickards medal, the Society’s highest award. Staples’ collection of over 1300 metamorphic trade cards is now part of the Library Company of Philadelphia. Robert Staples is survived by Barbara Fahs Charles, his design partner and wife, who continues to live on Barracks Row, and by his daughter, Samantha Elizabeth Chambers, and granddaughter, Casey Marlene Chambers, both of Cedar Lake, Indiana. u March 2022 H 69

.capitol streets.

Ward 6 ANC Redistricting Plans ANC6A REPORT by Nick L. Alberti

Ward 6 Redistricting Chair of the Ward 6 Redistricting Task Force, Ivan Frishberg and Gottlieb Simon, a task force member, reported on the process for redistricting ANC 6 and each Single Member District (SMD) now that the new Ward boundaries have been drawn. The ultimate goal of redistricting is to divide each ANC into SMD’s averaging 2,000 residents, within a narrow margin, with roughly equal demographic representation in each, though Mr. Frishberg explained the Redistricting Task Force will aim to minimize altering existing commission boundaries when possible. Before the task force begins initial deliberations, the public will be invited to

provide input by submitting their own boundary maps, much like with the redrawing of the larger Ward boundaries. Recommendations are then submitted to Councilmember Charles Allen who will also hear public comments once he has received the task force’s submissions. Councilmember Allen then brings his final recommendation for Ward 6 to the DC Council for a vote where residents will also be able to comment before the final vote. More details on this process as well as a list of public hearings and contact information for the task force can be found by visiting www.charlesallenward6.com/2022_ward_6_anc.

Unanimous Actions The following motions and recommendations were passed by the Commissioners with unanimous consent; • The Commissioners approved the recommendation to protest the application of The McKenzie Group, LLC t/a Ocean Lounge, at 1220 H St. NE (ABRA #114106) for a Class C Tavern License unless a Settlement Agreement is finalized prior to the protest deadline and that the CoChairs of the Alcoholic Beverage Licensing Committee as well as the Chair and ViceChair of the ANC be authorized to represent the ANC in this matter. • The Commissioners will send a letter to the DC Department of Transportation in support of traffic calming at the intersection of 13th and D Streets NE and in the 1300 block of D Street NE. • The Commissioners will send a letter of support for the March 26, 2022 Rock and Roll Half Marathon and 5K and request that race organizers improve communication and clean-up and communicate an “open streets” time period following the race for use by residents walking and biking. • The Commissioners will send a letter of support for DC Council to approve the MetroforDC Amendment Act of 2021 (B24-0429) and authorize the ANC Chair, Vice Chair or TPS Chair to testify before the DC Council on behalf of the ANC. • The Commissioners approved the request for special exception zoning relief from the lot occupancy requirements and special exception zoning relief from the rear addition requirements to construct a rear deck to an existing, attached, two-story with cellar, principal dwelling unit at 905 L Street NE (BZA #20606). • The Commissioners voted to send a letter to the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) in support of an installation of a speed camera in 1300 block of H Street NE, as well as other prior ANC 6A requests for speed cameras.

Other Actions • 70 ★ HILLRAG.COM

The Commissioners voted to send a letter of support for the Stipulated License application of The McKenzie

Group, LLC t/a Ocean Lounge in the event that a Settlement Agreement is finalized prior to the protest deadline. The vote was 5 in favor with Commissioner Alcorn opposed and Commissioner Soderman abstaining. Attending: Chair Amber Gove (6A04) convened the February 10, 2022 meeting of Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6A via Zoom with Commissioners Keya Chatterjee (6A01), Mike Soderman (6A03), Laura Gentile (6A05), Robb Dooling (6A06), Sondra PhillipsGilbert (6A07) and Brian Alcorn (6A08) in attendance. Commissioner Phil Toomajian (6A02) was absent. Visit www.anc6a.org for a calendar of meeting times, meeting agendas and other information. ◆

Dealing With Modern Materials on Historic Buildings ANC 6B REPORT by Elizabeth O’Gorek

he use of modern materials on historic projects came up in two matters considered by Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6B at their Feb. 15 meeting. The commission voted to support a Permit Review (appeal) for an Historic Preservation Application (HPA) to replace existing non-historic aluminum siding on the front of a house at 528 Fourth Street SE with fiber cement siding, popularly know as Hardie board. However, the application was rejected as “unhistoric” by the Historic Preservation Office (HPO). The applicant pointed out that

the preferred material, old-growth wood, is prohibitively expensive and that newer Hardie siding actually has a similar appearance. In their letter of support, the ANC highlighted that this is a case of a non-historic material replacing a non-historical material. They asked HPO to review guidelines and codify fiber cement siding as an acceptable choice.

Request for Guidance Hardie siding was again discussed when commissioners voted to support a Board of Zoning (BZA) for a Special Exception to construct a two story, rear addition for an existing, attached, two-story with basement and principal dwelling unit at 739 12th St. SE. The resident is looking to expand living space to meet the requirements for fostering children as well as to deal with persistent water infiltration issues. The plan is to add a 25-foot addition, the entirety of which would extend past the house to the north and require 15 feet of relief. The same project has an HPA, and the ANC asked the Historic Preservation Review Board (HPRB) for guidance in terms of material use on the rear of buildings and noted that the lack of sun studies made it difficult to determine impact on neighbor’s light. Commissioner Oldenburg expressed concerns about the vinyl siding proposed for the rear, noting most projects in the historic district use horizontal Hardie board at the rear.

Check out all of our happenings at

www.Mrhenrysdc.com LIVE MUSIC returns

Wed through Sat evenings. Tickets at

Instantseats.com Every Wednesday Capitol Hill Jazz Jam 3/3 - Pablo Regis 3/4 - Landon Paddock 3/5 - Candice Bostwick 3/10 - Cheryl Jones 3/11 - Jared Sims 3/12 - Chuck Redd’s Vibes Fest 3/17 - Fran Vielma’s Jazz Orchestra

3/18 - Kevin Cordt quartet 3/19 - John Lamkin Quintet 3/24 - Tony Gudell 3/25 - Washington Women In Jazz 3/26 - Maija Rejman 3/31 - Joni Mitchell Tribute Show

Support for Two-Story Garage and Deck The commission voted 4-2 with two abstentions to support a BZA application for special exception from lot occupancy and rear yard requirements to construct a two-story accessory garage with roof deck. The structure would be at the rear of an existing three-story home at 745 Tenth St. SE. The architect argued that the proposed structure was not unusual

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

601 Pennsylvania Ave. SE March 2022 ★ 71

.capitol streets.

for the area, showing photos of the varied nature of the alley including some two-story accessory buildings. Appearing at the meeting, the property owner said she needed more living space and said adding a deck in the rear of the house is the only spot that gets sun due to the three-story apartment building just to the south. She also described privacy concerns, as the residents of the apartment were able to look down into her yard. The owners and a tenant of that apartment building voiced their opposition, citing privacy concerns as the roof deck would nearly be on the same level as one of the rear decks and people on the roof deck would be able to look into the back windows. They also voiced issues around the cumulative impacts of two two-story accessory buildings abutting their rear yard.

The ANC Voted to Support: •

•

A letter to Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Directors of the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) and the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) requesting that improvements to the south side of Garfield Park begin in the next few months. The letter notes that although funds have been committed to these improvements, work has been delayed for years despite needed structural and safety improvements. A letter to DC Council asking that encampments located at 11th Street SE near the I-695 and the Third Street Tunnel be added to the CARE Program, which provides accelerated access to permanent housing for encampment residents. The program began in late 2021 with a pilot program targeting three encampments, none located in ANC 6B. A letter to DDOT and DC Council asking that funding for construction on the Penn-Potomac intersection be included in the FY23 budget. Engineering designs for the project are 90% percent complete and undergoing an internal review expected to conclude by May 2022. A construction budget of $20 million was requested for FY23 but may be deferred to FY24, delaying the start of construction Testimony to DC Council for the Feb. 18 DC Council DDOT Oversight hearing on the topic of the Southeast Boulevard and Barney Circle Project. Transportation Committee Chair Kirsten Oldenburg will testify. The ANC sees the project as an opportunity to transform 18 undeveloped acres into a new urban space with eq-

72 H HILLRAG.COM

•

uitable access to the Anacostia River. The commission has been working with DDOT on the renovation, asking them to redesign the area to allow for more equitable multi-modal vehicles and establish a few blocks on the site of a neighborhood demolished in the 1960s. The ANC will ask Council to encourage DDOT to release the draft Environmental Assessment and to ensure funding to complete the EA in FY23. Changes to ANC bylaws that would allow resident members to be appointed at regular meetings throughout the year, rather than only at the February meeting, with all terms ending the following February regardless of the month they are appointed; to explicitly allow for two members of the commission to co-chair a task force; and to formally add the Transportation Committee as a standing committee.

In Other Matters The ANC voted to reinstate all standing committees and task forces, re-electing the current chairs. They also voted for the appointment of ANC 6B Resident Members: 1. Floyd Brown – Transportation Committee [6B01] 2. Lauren Freedman – Planning and Zoning Committee [6B01] 3. Kevin Morarity – Transportation Committee [6B02] 4. Katherine Szafran – Alcohol Beverage Control Committee [6B03] 5. Gerardo Mijares-Shafai – Planning and Zoning Committee [6B03] 6. Brian Kirrane – Transportation Committee [6B03] 7. Ellen Opper-Weiner – Alcohol Beverage Control Committee [6B05] 8. Ken Jarboe – Planning and Zoning Committee[6B05] 9. Raman Santra – Alcohol Beverage Control Committee [6B06] – New Nomination/Returning RM (previously RM for 6B08 – 2019-2020) 10. Ryan Danks – Planning and Zoning Committee [6B06] 11. Matt LaFortune – Transportation Committee [6B06] – New Nomination 12. Bill Ferguson – Planning and Zoning Committee [6B07] – New Nomination 13. Stefan Katz – Transportation Committee [6B07] 14. Chander Jayaraman – Alcohol Beverage Control Committee [6B08]

15. Amanda Thomas – Planning and Zoning Committee [6B08] 16. Carol Grissom – Transportation Committee [6B08] 17. Ryan Fochler – Alcohol Beverage Control Committee [6B09] 18. Daniel Garry – Planning and Zoning Committee [6B09] 19. John Ten Hoeve – Transportation Committee [6B09] 20. Francis Campbell – Planning and Zoning Committee [6B10] Attending were Commissioners Jennifer Samolyk (6B01), Gerald Sroufe (6B02), Brian Ready (6B03), Kirsten Oldenburg (6B04), Steve Holtzman (6B05), Corey Holman (6B06), Edward Ryder (6B07) and Alison Horn (6B09). Commissioners Denise Krepp (6B10) and Peter Wright (6B08) were unable to attend. ANC 6B will hold the next meeting of the full commission virtually at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Mar. 8, 2022. Get up to date information on meetings at anc6b.org u

Delayed DDOT Response to ANC Concerns ANC 6C Report by Elizabeth O’Gorek

t the Feb. 9 meeting of Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6C, Commissioners voted to designate Commissioners Joel Kelty (6C05) and Drew Courtney (6C06) to testify at the DC Council Oversight Hearing for the District Department of Transportation (DDOT). The pair will ask the agency to prioritize forms of transportation other than automobiles and point out that the agency has not provided either response or action on matters noted by ANC 6C. These includes particularly commission correspondence about road safety on H Street NE. Commissioner Mark Eckenwiler (6C04) pointed out that, some years ago, ANC 6C sent the agency a letter flagging safety issues along the H Street NE corridor and making specific recommendations for improvements, notably at intersections like that

Logan Circle 1 BR /1 BA with private Roof Deck

Capitol Hill 1300 Block of East Capitol In Bounds for Maury 4 BR / 2.5 BA with parking

Kingman Park at Third and H Streets NE, where a high number of accidents occur. The agency did not respond for a year-and-a-half, Eckenwiler noted, and largely dismissed suggestions made in the commission’s letter. Courtney said testimony will rely on contributions from ANC 6C Transportation Public Space (TPS) Committee Chair Michael Upright and a document created by former TPS Chair Christy Kwan that tracks the commission’s correspondence with DDOT.

2020 VPP Placards Effective Until April Commissioner Eckenwiler highlighted emergency legislation signed by Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) extending the validity of the 2020 Visitor Park Pass (VPP) placards until April 14, 2022. This legislation is designed to allow residents to get familiar with the new ParkDC system. The new, centralized digital system is designed for DC residents and their visitors to manage visitor, temporary, home health aide, and contractor parking permits via a single online portal. Visit the site at parkdc.com.

Consent Calendar Commissioners voted unanimously to approve the consent calendar which included motions to: • Support a concept Historic Preservation Application (HPA) to demolish an existing one-story rear addition and construct a new two-story addition and screen porch at 638 E. Capitol St. NE. The ANC first saw the application in January to consider zoning matters. The majority of the work is in the rear of the structure and not visible from public right of way. • Approve a Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) applica-

3 BR/2.5 BA with Parking Stunning Kitchen

Buying a house in this market is like a 4 leaf clover hard to find, and lucky to get! The JLC Team has a wee bit o’ luck of the Irish with some wonderful listings coming on this month! Please give us a call for more details!

Jackie Sink 202.352.5793 jackie.sink@compass.com

Libby Clarke 202.841.1812 libby.clarke@compass.com

Crystal Crittenden 202.246.0931 crystal.crittenden@compass.com SE E OU R R EV I EW S ON Z I LLOW J LC T E A M .C OM

@ J LC T E A M

JOHNSON LAW GROUP

on THE

Integrity, Value, and Social Responsibility

Hill

Sharon L. Bernier RN, PhD Psychotherapy Individuals & Couples

202-544-6465

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

March 2022 ★ 73

.capitol streets.

•

tion for special-exception relief from the lot-occupancy requirements to construct a two-story garage at 632 Fifth St NE. The project has support from adjacent neighbors. In addition, at Commissioner Kelty’s suggestion, the ANC will send a letter to the Zoning Commission (ZC) flagging an issue with ambiguity in zoning regulations about technical regulations. The area of a staircase landing is excluded from the building area and so from lot occupancy requirements. In recent months, Eckenwiler said, the ANC has seen multiple instances where applicants have insisted that substantial areas of what could be decks are instead staircase landings and therefore do not contribute to lot occupancy. Support a BZA seeking special exception from penthouse height and setback requirements to construct a new penthouse on an existing attached four-story building. Applicant Hillsdale College submitted a HPA for the project in late 2021. They have since revised plans and now seeks to construct a modest one-story (as opposed to two story) addition to the existing building. Oppose an application to DDOT and TPS for a construction permit for 202 K St. NE and instead request revisions to a previous design. The developer indicated an earlier design removed the retaining wall at Second and K Streets and made public space more accessible. Write a letter to DC Council to support a NoMA BID request for funding to make improvements to the Third St NoMA Metro Station entrance. The goal is to add a safer, more walkable entrance to NoMA Metro. The BID is requesting $50 million in FY2023. TPS Committee Chair Michael Upright will participate in a Community Advisory Committee for the North Capitol Corridor Study. The study focuses on safety improvements from Massachusetts Avenue to Riggs Road.

Support for Rock ’n’ Roll Marathon Commissioners voted to write a letter in 74 H HILLRAG.COM

support of the March 22, 2022 Rock ’n’ Roll Marathon. The 2021 event was pushed to fall 2021, but now organizers will resume the regular spring schedule making the 2021 and 2022 events unusually close together. Attendance at the event is expected to be 11,000 down from a previous peak of 19,000 runners. The event will also now be a half, rather than full, marathon. Organizers have promised they will clear the course and clean-up the next day; representative Diane Romo-Thomas offered her contact number to commissioners to help alleviate any issues. There is no loop in the course, such as in previous years, that would trap cars within the perimeter of the run.

Other Matters Chair Karen Wirt (6C02) noted that ANC 6C has received permission to meet virtually through May 4. A second bill under consideration by DC Council would extend the ability to meet online through September 2022. An appearance by representatives of National Park Service East on parks in ANC 6C has been deferred to the March meeting.

Grant Applications Welcomed Commissioner Christine Healey (6C01) said that the Grants Committee has asked commissioners to promote the ANC’s ability to give out grants. The ANC 6C grants program awards grant funding to organizations that conduct programs which directly benefit the ANC 6C community. Grants typically range from $500 to $2,500. There are four annual application cycles. Learn more at anc6c.org/ committees/grants-committee/

807 Maine Avenue SW Unveiled ANC 6D Report by Andrew Lightman

ill Creek Residential, developers of the nearby Modern on M, briefed the commission on their plans for 807 Maine Ave. SW. The triangular parcel is the current side of the Disabled Veterans of America (DVA) headquarters, abutting Jefferson Middle School on its northern boundary. Between the school and the DVA office is an underground WMATA vault that powers the Green Line. At the meeting, Mill Creek unveiled plans for an 11-story, triangular building, approximately 110 feet in height. The developer intends to build roughly 200 apartments and 5,600 square foot of ground floor retail on the south side. There will be a mix of studios and units as large as two bedrooms with dens; 15 percent of which will be affordable at 60 percent of AMI. Two may be rented at 50 percent of AMI. The mix will be dictated by the market, the developer’s representatives stated. Sixty-five to 70 underground parking spaces on two levels are planned, The first floor is a cantilevered two-floor design intended to maintain setback that runs from Seventh to Ninth Street along Maine Avenue SW. The developer is filing a Planned Unit Development (PUD) with the Zon-

Attending were Commissioners Christine Healey (6C01), Karen Wirt (6C02), Jay Adelstein (6C03), Mark Eckenwiler (6C04) and Drew Courtney (6C06) were in attendance. Joel Kelty (6C05) was not present. ANC 6C generally meets on the second Wednesday of the month. The next meeting of ANC 6C is scheduled for Wednesday, 7 p.m. Mar. 9. Get the latest information on how to attend at anc6c.org/hot-topics/. u

Rendering of 807 Maine Avenue SW. Rendering: Mill Creek.

ing Commission by the end of February to change the parcel’s zoning to MU-10. The property has a single, existing curb cut on Seventh Street SW just south of the driveway leading to the back of Jefferson Academy. The developer does not plan to ask any others. Instead, they plan to build a loading dock on the northern side of the building along with the entrance to the parking garages. All loading will take place on the property, they told the commission. “I think the height is too much,” stated Commissioner Litsky. Many of his colleagues concurred. Commissioner Collins also questioned the amount of parking, given the tremendous constraints on curbside in the adjoining neighborhood. He criticized the loading arrangements as insufficient, given the fact that packages are typically delivered through the main entry rather than over loading docks. The corner location of the building’s entrance could lead to double parked delivery vehicles blocking either the crosswalks or busy vehicular travel lanes. All the commissioners decried the impact of potential building shadows on neighboring Jefferson Academy. Commissioner Kramer termed the amount of affordable housing “insufficient.” She also demanded a commitment to neighborhood serving retail. The commission did not vote on the plan.

Square 662 Update MidAtlantic Realty Partners (MRP) is currently building the Verge, a 344-unit apartment building located at 1800 Half and S Street, SW. It is the first phase of two million square feet of retail and residences on Square 663 directly adjacent to the new oval park at the base of the Frederick Douglass Bridge that will likely include a supermarket.

The only dentist in both SE and SW to be recognized as:

Top Invisalign Provider on Capitol Hill

Washingtonian Magazine Top Dentist 2021

Sheila Samaddar, DDS

DC Magazine Top Healthcare Professional 2021

President, District of Columbia Academy of General Dentistry

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

COMPREHENSIVE COSMETIC ESTHETIC MINIMALLY INVASIVE FAMILY DENTISTRY

DrSamaddar@SouthCapitolS mileCenter.com

CREATING BEAUTIFUL SMILES ALL OVER CAPITOL HILL!

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

SouthCapitolSmileCenter

DrSheSam

Across from Nationals Park & 2 blocks from the Navy Yard Metro

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

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

NEW MILLENNIUM

PROUD TO BE AGENTS WITH THE #1 CENTURY 21 FIRM IN THE WORLD! Joan Carmichael Realtor 202.271.5198 joanvcarmichael@gmail.com Bridgette Cline Realtor 202.271.4196 bridgette.cline@c21nm.com FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS 1000 Pennsylvania Ave., SE Wash., DC 20003 office # 202-546-0055

NEW MILLENNIUM

March 2022 ★ 75

Read her story at CapitolHillHistory.org

Photo by Gayle Krughoff

Esther Woodfolk recalls many happy days living in southeast DC after her father took a job at the Navy Yard. But she also reflects on the less-than-happy reality that her family home and hundreds of other homes and shops no longer exist, destroyed to make way for the Southwest/Southeast Freeway. Read Esther Woodfolk’s oral history at CapitolHillHistory.org. Help preserve Capitol Hill history by becoming a volunteer.

A rendering of Parcel 662’s temporary murals. Rendering: MRP. AN INITIATIVE OF THE CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY FOUNDATION.

The Zoning Commission and ANC 6D were both concerned about the blank northern facing facade on the project’s first phase. At their behest, the developer plans to temporarily decorate these walls with public art until the second phase obscures them. Commissioner requested the developer not incorporate any lighting or digital signage into the art project. They also asked that first preference be given to neighborhood artists. Commissioner Litsky also pleaded with the developer to remove a legacy bill board on the phase two section facing the new oval as well. The commission voted unanimously to send a letter in support of MRP’s plans.

Section of Lansburg Park Licensed to Developer The District has licensed a section of Lansburgh Park, 1098 Delaware Ave. SW, for construction staging and crane swing space. The licensee, 60 EYESTREET, LLC, is a joint venture between Foulger-Pratt and Bethel Pentecostal Tabernacle Assembly to develop the church’s property at 60 I Street SW into a 197-unit residential building and a new 17,000 square foot sanctuary. Foulger-Pratt has al76 ★ HILLRAG.COM

ready fenced off a small section on the northern end of the park, on which it plans to store construction materials, two trailers and a tower crane. After a constituent inquired, Commissioner Weiss brought up the matter with the Department of General Services (DGS), the agreement’s licensor. He requested a copy of the agreement. DGS required he file a FOIA to obtain it. Weiss was outraged by both the licensing of a section of a public park to a private interest and DGS’s insistence of a FOIA. Commissioner Kramer, who had inspected the site, reported that Foulger-Pratt had removed three mature trees from the licensed section of the park. A number of Weiss’ and Kramer’s colleagues also expressed their anger. The commissioners unanimously authorized a letter be sent to the Department of General Services protesting the license.

Other Matters MPD First District Captain Darren Haskis briefed the commission on public safety. Compared to last year, robberies are up, he stated. There nine in last 30 days. MPD has closed half of these with arrests. Other crime types are trending identically to last year.

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

www.anc6a.org

ALL ARE WELCOME Ward 8 Redistricting Task Force Members Troy Prestwood and David Meadows briefed the commission on the group’s work to date. The task force expects to have three maps to show for discussion by March 14. The final one be chosen by majority vote at that meeting. The committee can be reached at RedistrictWard8ANC@gmail.com. Ward 6 Task Force Member Gottlieb Simon raised the question of the area of the Navy Yard north of M Street SW that is slated to remain in Ward 6, known as “the notch.” The Ward 8 section of the Navy Yard has enough population for three Single Member Districts, he pointed out, while the notch has numbers for two more. The best solution would be a five-member commission shared between Wards 6 and 8. Chair Daniels and Treasurer Weiss, who live in the notch and represent the Navy Yard currently, were open to the suggestion. Creating such a commission would require intervention by both ward councilmembers, Simon stated. Andy Galli gave an update on DC Water’s Clean Rivers Project, part of which is a tunnel, 18-foot in diameter, from Georgetown to the agency’s Blue Plains waste water treatment facility. The tunnel will divert waste water that is now dumped from six sewer outlets into the Potomac during storms. A utility duct to support the tunnel is now under construction along Ohio Drive and Independence Avenues SW. The construction is planned overnight to minimize traffic impact. Commissioners raised concerns about the impact on Cherry Blossom tourists. Galli assured them that pedestrian safety is paramount. The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is conducting a detailed assessment of the state of all District public housing. The commission voted unanimously to send HUD a letter detailing the maintenance issues facing all

three Southwest public housing complexes as well as frustrations with the agency plans for the redevelopment of Greenleaf Gardens. The commission unanimously to: • approve the amended February agenda; • support a Class C license for Farm Bird, located at 1251 First Street SE; • support the Race for Hope 5K; • authorize Commissioners Lightman or Kramer to testify at DDOT Oversight Hearing on Feb. 18; • send the District a letter regarding Buzzard Point flooding; • authorize for Kramer to testify in support of the historic designation of Buzzard Point Power Plant at the Historic Preservation Review Board; • authorize for Collins or Kramer to testify at a hearing on housing issues relating to DC Housing Authority. Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6D met on Feb. 14 over Zoom. Commissioners Dr. Marjorie Lightman (6D01), Jared Weiss (6D02, secretary), Ronald Collins (6D03, treasurer), Andy Litsky (6D04), Fredrica (Rikki) Kramer (6D05, vice chair), and Edward Daniels (6D07, chair) were in attendance. Rhonda Hamilton (6D06) was absent. The meeting started with a moment of silence in memory of her mother Gloria Hamilton. Chair Daniels introduced the commission’s new Executive Administrative Assistant Jein Park. The commission authorized her hiring with a salary not to exceed $14,000 for FY 22.

The Next meeting is 2nd Thursday, March 10, 7:00 p.m. Economic Development and Zoning Committee meeting 3rd Wednesday, March 16, 7:00 p.m. Virtual Meeting via Zoom Transportation & Public Space Committee meeting 3rd Monday, March 21, 7:00 p.m. Virtual Meeting via Zoom Alcohol Beverage Licensing Committee meeting 4th Tuesday, March 22, 7:00 p.m. Virtual Meeting via Zoom Community Outreach Committee meeting 4th Monday, March 28, 7:00 p.m. Virtual Meeting via Zoom Instructions for accessing the meeting via Zoom have been posted under Hot Topics at anc6a.org. Call in information will be posted under Community Calendar at anc6a.org 24 hours prior to the meeting. You will be able to enter the meeting no earlier than 15 minutes prior to its scheduled start time.

Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6C P.O. Box 77876 • Washington, D.C. 20013-7787 www.anc6c.org • (202) 547-7168

Next meeting Wednesday, March 9, 2022. Information will be posted on the ANC 6C website.

ANC 6C COMMISSIONERS ANC 6C01 Christine Healey 6C01@anc.dc.gov

ANC 6C04 Mark Eckenwiler 6C04@anc.dc.gov

ANC 6C02 Karen Wirt 6C02@anc.dc.gov

ANC 6C05 Joel Kelty 6C05@anc.dc.gov

ANC 6C03 Jay Adelstein 6C03@anc.dc.gov

ANC 6C06 Drew Courtney drewcourtney.anc @gmail.com

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

ANC 6C COMMITTEES Alcoholic Beverage Licensing First Monday, 7 pm Contact: anc6c.abl.committee@gmail.com Grants Last Thursday, 7 pm Contact: torylord@gmail.com Twitter: @ANC_6C_Grants Environment, Parks, and Events First Tuesday, 7 pm Contact: 6C06@anc.dc.gov

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

ANC 6D meets at 7 p.m. on the second Monday of every month. The next meeting is March 14, 2022 via Zoom. For more information and links to join ANC meetings, visit www.anc6d.org. u

March 2022 H 77

.capitol streets.

BULLETIN BOARD Commissioned Artwork Selected for 11th Street Bridge Park The 11th Street Bridge Park, a partnership between the local non-profit Building Bridges Across the River and the District government, have announced the selection of “Anacostia’s Sunrise/Sunset Portals” by DC-based artists Martha Jackson Jarvis and Njena Surae Jarvis of Jackson Jarvis Studio as the park’s first and largest commissioned artwork. Selected by the 11th Street Bridge Park Curatorial Committee, the $400,000 commissioned piece will help orient and invite visitors into the park and welcome neighbors home to historic Anacostia. Jackson Jarvis Studio’s transformative public art commissions appear across the country including at the Anacostia Metro Station, Prince George’s County Courthouse, New York Transit Authority, among others. bbardc.org/project/11th-street-bridge-park/. Image: Courtesy of OMA-OLIN

uments, photo ID, Social Security card, and health insurance information before scheduling an appointment.

Ward 6 COVID Center Opens The COVID Center in Ward 6 opened on January 24. At all DC COVID Centers, individuals have access to vaccinations, boosters, and take-home rapid antigen tests, as well as a new walk-up testing opportunity that will allow residents to administer and register a PCR test themselves. The Ward 6 center, at 507 Eighth St. SE, is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Fridays and Sundays, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; closed Tuesdays. coronavirus.dc.gov.

Arena Stage Theater Artists Marketplace

H Street FRESHFARM Market Opens for Season Located in the H Street, NE neighborhood, the FRESHFARM market at 800 13th St. NE, has become a community gathering spot where friends and neighbors meet to shop and socialize. This market offers conventional and certified organic fruits and vegetables, grass-fed meats, pastured eggs, sweet and savory baked goods, locally roasted coffee, fermented pickles and krauts, sandwiches and flatbreads, fresh flowers, plants, and more. The H Street FRESHFARM Market opens for the season on Saturdays, starting April 2 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. freshfarm. org/markets/h-street-ne. 78 H HILLRAG.COM

Arboretum Native Plant Sale On Sunday, March 27, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friends of the National Arboretum is having their annual native plant sale along Meadow Road between the Arboretum’s Visitors Center and the National Herb Garden. Use the R Street Entrance at 2400 R St. NE. fona.org.

Free AARP Tax Help By appointment only, DC and Maryland residents can get free tax preparation services at SW Library, 900 Wesley Pl. SW, on Mondays and Wednesdays, 1 to 4 p.m., through April 18. Make an appointment by calling 202-656-0442 or by email to 2001018@aarpfoundation.org. Be sure to have all your 2021 tax doc-

The Arena Stage Theater Artists Marketplace is a new model for regional theaters to connect art, artists and their artistry directly with the public. You can commission or purchase a work of art safely, with no inperson contact, from the artists and artisans who have graced Arena’s stages. The pandemic disrupted the ability for artists and theaters to earn income. When you make a purchase through the Marketplace, you are generating much-needed financial support for artists and a percentage supports Arena Stage. There are 35 artists and over 100 works of art, lessons, or commissioning opportunities currently on the Marketplace. arenastage.org/tickets/looking-forward/artists-marketplace/.

Puzzle Swap at Southeast Library On Saturday, March 26, 2 to 4 p.m. bring a puzzle and take a puzzle at Southeast Library’s (rescheduled) Puzzle Swap to belatedly celebrate National Puzzle Day. 403 Seventh St. SE. dclibrary.org/ southeast.

DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in the District. DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in the District.

DCHFA, Resource in District. DCHFA, YourHomeownership Homeownership Resource the District. DCHFA,Your Your Homeownership Resource inthe thein District. 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 DC Open Doors DC Open Doors DCDC Open Doors Open Doors isD.C. your key to homeownership DChomebuyer Open Doors key to homeownership in the oris ayour resident DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership in the DC Open Doors in the city. This program offers competitive in-and city. This program offers competitive interest rates , be purchasing a home in the DC Open Doors city. program offers interest ratesinand DCThis Open Doorsinsurance is yourcompetitive keycosts to homeownership the lower mortgage on first trust District of Columbia. terest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs DCmortgage Open Doors is your key to homeownership lower insurance costs on first trust rates and in the city. This program offers competitive interest on trust mortgages. You not required city.first This program offers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs onare first trust homebuyerorora aD.C. D.C. resident homebuyer resident lower costs on first trust to be amortgage first-time,insurance homebuyer or a D.C. resident purchasing a home in the , bebe purchasing a home in the homebuyer or a D.C. resident to qualify for DCOD. You must, however, be for down District Columbia. HPAP provides interest free deferred loans District ofofColumbia. , be purchasing a home in the homebuyeraorhome a D.C. resident purchasing in the District of Columbia. District of Columbia. , be purchasing a home in the of serves as a co-administrator District of Columbia. this DCPurchase Department of Housing and Community Home Assistance HPAP providesinterest interest free deferred loans down HPAP provides free deferred loans forfor down Development’s (DHCD) first-time home buyer HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down Program program. (HPAP) serves as as a co-administrator of of serves a co-administrator HPAP provides interest free deferred loans of this DC Housing and Community this DCDepartment Department of Housing and Community serves as a co-administrator HPAP provides of interest free deferred loans for down Development’s (DHCD) first-time home buyer for DC down payment and closingand cost assistance this Department of Housing Community Development’s (DHCD) first-time home buyer program. Development’s (DHCD) first-time home buyeras a program. up to $84,000 combined. DCHFA serves serves as a co-administrator of program. co-administrator of this Department of this DC Department of DC Housing and Community Housing Community Development’s Development’s (DHCD) first-time home buyer years orand older who have fallen behind on insurance program. (DHCD) buyerofprogram. and tax first-time payments home as a result their reverse mortgage. Qualified District homeowners can receive up to years or older who have fallen behind on insurance years orpayments older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax or as ahave result of their reverse mortgage. years older who fallen behind on insurance DC4ME and tax payments as a result of their reverse Qualified District homeowners can receive upwith tomortgage. and tax payments as a result of their reverse DC4ME provides mortgage assistance Qualified District homeowners can receive mortgage. up to Qualified District homeowners can receive up to optional down payment assistance to D.C. DC4ME provides mortgage with government employees. DC4ME is offered to optional years or older who have fallenassistance behind on insurance down payment assistance to of D.C. government and taxfull-time payments as a result their reverse mortgage. current District government employees, DC4ME provides mortgage with optional employees. DC4ME isassistance offered tocan current full-time Qualified District homeowners receive up to including employees of District governmentDC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance toemployees, D.C. government District government including employees DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance toindependent D.C. government employees. DC4ME is offered to current full-time based instrumentalities, agencies, down payment assistance to D.C. government of District government-based instrumentalities, employees. DC4ME is offered offered tocurrent currentemployees full-timeSchools, District government employees, including employees. DC4ME is to full-time independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, ofDistrict District government-based instrumentalities, government employees, including employees District government employees, including employees and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's the applicant/borrower’s employer independent agencies, D.C. the Public Charter Schools, ofofprovided District instrumentalities, District government-based government-based instrumentalities, employer falls under oversight of the Council of and organizations, provided applicant/borrower's independent agencies, D.C.the Public CharterSchools, Schools, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter falls the of theassistance Council ofwith the optional DC4ME provides mortgage theunder District ofoversight Columbia. employer falls under the oversight of the Council of and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's and organizations, provided the down payment assistance toapplicant/borrower's D.C. government District of the District of Columbia. Columbia. employer falls the oversight of the Council ofof employer falls under oversight of the Council employees. DC4ME is offered to current full-time theDistrict District of of Columbia. Columbia. the District government employees, including employees DC MAPgovernment-based (Mortgage Assistance ofCOVID-19 District instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, COVID-19 DC MAP COVID-19 provides financial assistance to Program) COVID-19 and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's COVID-19 DC MAP COVID-19 provides financial assistance to COVID-19 those affected by theprovides impacts of the COVID-19 DC MAP COVID-19 financial those affected byQualified theunder impacts ofoversight the COVID-19 employer falls the of the Council of DC MAP COVID-19 provides financial assistance pandemic. borrowers can receive atoto loan of DC MAP COVID-19 financial assistance assistance toby those aprovides ected by the impacts of pandemic. Qualified borrowers can receive a loan of those affected the impacts of the COVID-19 the District of Columbia. upaffected to $5,000 per month to their mortgage those the impacts ofput the toward COVID-19 up to $5,000 perby month to put toward theirborrowers mortgage pandemic. Qualified borrowers can the pandemic. Qualified forCOVID-19 up to six months. pandemic. Qualified borrowers canreceive receivea aloan loanofof for up to six months. up toreceive $5,000 per month to put toward per theirmonth mortgage can a loan of up to $5,000 to up month to put toward their mortgage fortoup$5,000 to six per months. for uptoward to six months. put their mortgage for up to six months. COVID-19 DC MAP COVID-19 provides financial assistance to those affected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Qualified borrowers can receive a loan of Visit www.DCHFA.org Visit www.DCHFA.org up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage Visit www.DCHFA.org how to any DCHFA’s homeownership programs. Visit www.DCHFA.org for up toto sixapply months. how to apply to of any of DCHFA’s homeownership programs.

how to apply to any of DCHFA’s homeownership programs. how to apply to any of DCHFA’s homeownership 815 FLORIDA AVENUE, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20001 • 202.777.1600programs. • WWW.DCHFA.ORG

815FLORIDA FLORIDAAVENUE, AVENUE, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20001 • 202.777.1600 • WWW.DCHFA.ORG 815 NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20001 • 202.777.1600 • WWW.DCHFA.ORG 815 FLORIDA AVENUE, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20001 • 202.777.1600 • WWW.DCHFA.ORG March 2022 ★ 79

Visit www.DCHFA.org how to apply to any of DCHFA’s homeownership programs.

.capitol streets.

Busy Beavers at the National Arboretum A pair of beavers have built a lodge and two dams in Springhouse Run at the National Arboretum. Although beavers have lived there for at least the last 20 years, these are the first structures built in Springhouse Run since it was restored from a channelized concrete stream to an open wetland. Beavers are a keystone species and signify an important step in wetland restoration. Beaver dams slow down water, capturing sediment and nutrients while also recharging groundwater. This not only allows a wetland’s plants and wildlife to flourish, but it also reduces erosion and improves water quality throughout the entire watershed. Since these beavers began building their structures this past fall, Arboretum staff have observed aquatic and marsh birds, muskrats, and a river otter enjoying the new pools. fona.org.

Women’s History Month Teleconference with Mayor Bowser

Arboretum Eagle Update

The Southwest Waterfront AARP Chapter extends an invitation to all to attend their 30th Anniversary Year and Women’s History Month March teleconference on Wednesday, March 16, noon, with Mayor Muriel Bowser. The dial-in number is 425-436-6376; access code is 701215#

As of Feb. 7, Azalea Road and parts of the Azalea Collection are closed to visitors. These closures on Mt. Hamilton occur every spring as mating season begins for the Arboretum’s resident pair of bald eagles. Mr. President and LOTUS, as the mating pair are known, now have an egg that they take turns incubating. The American Eagle Foundation has two cameras perched above the nest so you can watch the action live at naeaglecam.org.

Carpe Librum Used Book Sales

Arts and Humanities Grants Panelists Wanted

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities On Saturdays, March 12, April 9, May relies on volunteer panelists to evaluate grant ap14, June 11 and 21 and July 9; from 10 This photo shows how restoring the stream to an open wetland plications. Panelists play a critical role in providing a.m. to 5 p.m., join Carpe Librum (https:// has allowed the Arboretum’s new plantings to thrive. Photo: Courtesy of the Friends of the National Arboretum grants to DC artists and arts organizations. Panelists turningthepage.org/what-we-do/carpe-lireview applications, provide comments, and score brum-bookstores/) in the southern block applications in order to advise on proposals submitof Canal Park, 200 M St. SW, for a pop-up socially distant, nonprofit used book sale. Books go to support the efforts of Turning the Page, which works with The Lincoln Theatre in 1925. Ward 7 & 8 schools to promote parent involvement in learning. Browse through thousands of books under $6 in an outdoor setting. These outdoor book sales are weather dependent. On Tuesdays in advance of the Saturday sale, you can donate books. They will be picked up in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood. Donors simply leave their donations on a porch or sidewalk in boxes or in a Mohamme bin Salman: The Icarus Lincoln Theatre Turns 100 building lobby. If interested in donatInitially conceived and built in 1922 as a segregated movie of Saudi Arabia ing, email Marin at mkirk@turningthepage.org. house on U Street NW—what came to be known as “Black On Tuesday March 8 at 7 p.m., David B. Ottaway capitolriverfront.org/canal-park. Broadway”—the Lincoln Theatre brought the latest top will give a zoom presentation on his recent book, MoHollywood films directly to Washington’s Black audienchammed bin Salman: The Icarus of Saudi Arabia. OtDC Writes Seeks Participants es for the first time. In the 100 years since, the theatre has taway is an award-winning journalist and mid-East Have you ever thought about writing? Perhaps catered to musical, theatrical and comedic artists, boxexpert who has twice been a finalist for the Putlizer you need a push? Maybe you need commuers, cinema stars, presidents, and hundreds of thousands Prize. Village Voices presentations are sponsored by nity to help you out? DC Writes workshops, of patrons from all walks of life. In recognition of the cenCapitol Hill Village. Free and open to the public. Regorganized by Petworth Library, are made up tennial of the Lincoln Theatre, located at 1215 U St. NW, ister and join the on-line discussion at capitolhill.helpof people from a variety of backgrounds and Mayor Bowser has issued an official proclamation confulvillage.com/events/8709. writing levels: beginners, veteran wordsmiths gratulating the theatre on its 100th Anniversary and for and emeriti. They write creative nonfiction, ficserving as a center of Washington, DC arts, culture, and ANC6A Community Outreach tion, poetry and scripts. Participants have the entertainment. As part of the Lincoln Theatre’s centenniCommittee Seeks Members opportunity to forge sustained relationships al celebrations, the theatre is looking to collect memories, ANC6A’s Community Outreach Committee is lookwith the membership, allowing for peers to mementos, historic ticket stubs, news articles, and more. ing for new members. They meet on the fourth Monget to know each other. They meet every other To share your story (or that of your parents and grandparday of every month at 7 p.m., currently via Zoom. Wednesday at 6 p.m. over Zoom (for now). If ents), visit bit.ly/LincolnDC100. The history of the LinThose interested should contact Amber Gove at Aminterested, email chris.stevenson@dc.gov. coln Theatre can be found at thelincolndc.com/history/. berANC6A@gmail.com. 80 H HILLRAG.COM

March 2022 H 81

.capitol streets.

Hidden District Waterways On February 15, the Capitol Hill Restoration Society hosted a virtual Preservation Cafe: Uncovering the History of the District’s Buried Streams, with presenters Joe Arrowsmith, Ecological Engineer, Straughan Environmental, Josh Burch, D.C. Department of Energy and Environment, and David Ramos, American University. Built at the confluence of the Potomac and Anacostia rivers, our capitol was once home to a vast network of streams, tributaries, and swimming holes. In summer 2021, the DC Department of Energy and Environment released an interactive steam mapping project examining the disappearance of these historic streams, as city planners have drained, relocated, and forced these waterways into drainage and sewer pipes, to build the city we know today. The presenters described the central role they have all played in this timely project and outlined the discussions and proposals city planners are entertaining to “daylight” or bring these streams back to the surface. The event was recorded and can be found at chrs. org/buried-streams-pc/ ted to the agency’s various grant programs. Panelists will be paid a stipend for their participation. Apply at dcarts.dc.gov/node/408342.

DPR Introduces Adaptive Programs DPR in partnership with Metro Washington Association of Blind Athletes, Military Adaptive Court Sports, and Medstar Health, is bringing DC residents new Adaptive Programing for DC residents of all ages who have unique needs and wish to participate in group sports and specialized classes. These programs are created for a range of diverse abilities and interests. New programing includes: Adaptive Tiny Tots (ages three to five); Adaptive Badminton; Adaptive Bocci Ball; Yoga for the Blind and Visually Impaired; Adaptive Wheelchair Rugby; Adaptive Pickleball; and Goal Ball for the Blind and Visually Impaired. dpradaptiveprograms.splashthat.com.

Hamilton at the KC Dates Adjusted The Hamilton touring schedule has been adjusted to accommodate the rescheduling of performances that were cancelled in other cities due to COVID-19. As a result, the Kennedy Center engagement will play ten weeks instead of twelve. Hamilton will now run Aug. 2 to Oct. 9. Tickets go on sale to Kennedy Center Members on Tuesday, March 8 at 10 a.m. and to the public on Tuesday, March 22 at 10 a.m. online at kennedy-center.org, in person at the Kennedy Center box office, or by calling 202-4674600. There is a maximum purchase limit of eight tickets per household for the engagement. Forty $10 orchestra seats will be offered for all performances. Details will be announced closer to the engagement. kennedy-center.org. 82 H HILLRAG.COM

GALA Hispanic Theatre to Receive NEA Grant GALA Hispanic Theatre has announced that it has been approved to receive an American Rescue Plan grant from the National Endowment for the Arts to help the arts and cultural sector recover from the pandemic. GALA Hispanic Theatre is recommended to receive $150,000 and will use this funding to save jobs and to fund operations and facilities, health and safety supplies, and marketing and promotional efforts to encourage attendance. In total, the NEA will award grants totaling $57,750,000 to 567 arts organizations in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, and Washington, DC. For more information on the grants, including the full list of arts organizations funded in this announcement, visit arts.gov/COVID-19/the-american-rescue-plan.

Free Tax Prep Services Free and virtual tax preparation services are being offered to low- and moderate-income District residents by the DC Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking (DISB) and the United Way of the National Capital Area (United Way NCA). The Earned Income Tax Credit, one of the nation’s largest and most effective anti-poverty programs, is a refundable tax credit. For the 2021 tax year, households with incomes not exceeding $57,414 can qualify for the EITC, which could put up to $6,700 into the pockets of eligible taxpayers. The average amount of EITC received nationwide was about $2,461. Tax preparation ser-

vices are available virtually or in person (following COVID-19 safety protocols). All United Way NCA FECs except the DC office, as well as IRS VITA sites located throughout Maryland and Virginia, will be offering free tax services until the week of April 15, 2022. For more information, visit unitedwaynca.org/vita. Photo: Valerie Krebs

BetMGM Retail Sportsbook Opens at Nationals Park BetMGM and the Washington Nationals have opened the first retail sportsbook connected to a Major League Baseball stadium. The BetMGM Sportsbook at Nationals Park is open yearround, daily, from 11 a.m. to midnight, providing sports fans an innovative entertainment destination to watch and wager on games. Publicly accessible from N Street SE next to Center Field Gate, the new sportsbook features 40 big-screen TVs with live odds boards that update as the action progresses. Visitors can place wagers directly with cashiers at six betting windows or utilize user-friendly betting kiosks. Additionally, the BetMGM Sportsbook offers full-service beverage and dining options. It will not be accessible by fans while they are in attendance at a Nationals game, but fans will be able to place bets via BetMGM’s mobile app.

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

La Strega Accounting, Inc.

Fort Dupont Ice Arena Closes for Season The Fort Dupont Ice Arena, 3779 Ely Pl. SE, closed for the season on Feb. 27. The Arena is then expected be torn down and rebuilt to reopen in September 2023. fdia.org.

Free Electronics Recycling in DC Reverse Logistics Group (RLG) will hold 32 free electronics recycling events on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. throughout 2022 in each of the District’s 8 Wards, rain or shine. Collection vehicles will be stationed near various Department of Parks and Recreation community or recreation centers, District parks or local Farmers Markets. Drop off any of the listed acceptable items in as-is condition for safe handling by a responsible recycler. Examples of items that are accepted include computers, tablets, monitors, TVs, desktop printers, mice, keyboards, video game consoles, and cell phones. A complete list of acceptable items, collection event dates, and locations can be found at rev-log.com/ DCecycling. They cannot accept items that are not listed on the acceptable items list.

Marina L. Martin

Law Offices Of

James m LOOts, Pc Serving the Capitol Hill Community Since 1984 General Litigation and Arbitration Franchising and Business Organizations Commercial Leasing and Development Labor and Employment Issues Contract and Licensing Matters

EA, MBA, NTPI®

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

www.lastregaaccounting.com

202-251-3907 (c)

lastregaindc@gmail.com

TOP “AV” RATED BY MARTINDALE-HUBBELL

634 G Street SE, Suite 200 | Washington DC 20003 (202) 536-5650 • Fax: (202) 315-3515 www.lootslaw.com

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

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

Order With Joe’s Coffee App

JOE.COFFEE

Reconstruction of Concrete Median along C Street NE DDOT has begun construction on the new concrete median in the center of C Street NE and 18th Street NE. The new median will run across the 18th Street intersection on C Street, eliminating the ability for eastbound traffic on C Street NE to turn left onto 18th Street NE northbound. The construction entails the development of new grass median, curb and gutter, as well as a pedestrian walkway. Construction for drainage and communication infrastructure is ongoing. cstne.com. ◆ March 2022 ★ 83

84 H HILLRAG.COM

arts ining d and

Angel Penn delights the audience with a joke. Photo: Mark Mensh

OMEDY STANDUP

AT HAMILTON’S ON CAPITOL HILL

by Sarah Payne

er who, with Morla, hosts a podcast entitled “Comsaid laughing. “Most people say you’re ic Widows”, a spin off of football widows, that feanot supposed to eat before swimming, tures the audience perspective. She also does much but we carb load before swimming.” of the “behind the scenes” work for Comedy on the Mensch and Morla started their Hill including marketing and social media work for work together on “Spaghetti on the the organization. Beach” via Zoom during the pandemic and have since transitioned to an inThe Experience person format. Whether you’re ready to step into the spotlight upMorla is a DC based comic well stairs at Hamilton’s or you’re just looking for a fun known for being the loudest laugh at every show and as a big supportSpaghetti on the er of comedy. He has now grabbed Beach is the Capitol Hill Comedy’s Tuesday the mic to host and produce shows evening comedy show in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. He featuring veteran and has performed at several comedy beginner comedians alike. Photo: Mark shows including the DC Improv Mensh and Spaghetti on the Beach and he has opened for Todd Glass’s show. Mensh is a DC native who recently returned to the District after living in Virginia for several Capitol Hill Comedy years. He has taken his comedic acts to the KenDC residents Mark Mensh, Laura Lyster-Mensh and nedy Center, the Lincoln Theater, and just about Angel Morla (who goes by the stage name Angel Penn) every bar and bowling alley in the area. Mensh created Capitol Hill Comedy, an organization that referred to the DC comedy scene as “one of the produces comedy shows, including the show and open best in the country,” but emphasized the lack of mic at Hamilton’s enigmatically called “Spaghetti on stand up comedy and open mics in the neighthe Beach,” a reference to Morla’s Dominican culture. borhood which is why the team chose the Hill Mark Mensh performs on the mic. “We had this weird tradition where we would to open Capitol Hill Comedy. Photo: Mark Mensh bring a big giant thing of pasta to the beach,” Morla Lyster-Mensh is an author and podcastn a spare stage upstairs at Hamilton’s Bar and Grill (233 2nd Street NW), a young woman looks down at the deck of file cards she’s holding and begins her routine. There’s a smattering of laughter. She’s obviously nervous but determined to keep going. Suddenly she finds her stride, and with the next joke the audience bursts into loud laughter and applause. This trial by fire takes place each Tuesday at 7 p.m. in the upper portion of the restaurant that was converted into a small performance space for aspiring and veteran comedians alike. It features the only open mic for comedy on Capitol Hill.

March 2022 ★ 85

CLASSES Basic Drawing Techniques: Drawing From an Image Starting Tuesday, March 1, 6:30pm-8:00pm Long Lunch: Paella Friday, March 4, 11:30am-1:00pm Date Night: A Taste of France Saturday, March 5, 5:00pm-8:00pm Eastern Market Art Series & Teachings (EAST) Sunday, March 6, 3:00pm-5:00pm *Virtual* Family Style Series: Shakshuka Tuesday, March 8, 6:00pm-7:00pm Street Food: Samosas & Pakora Thursday, March 10, 6:00pm-7:30pm Sophisticated Southern Brunch: Shrimp & Grits Sunday, March 13, 11:00am-2:00pm Kitchen 101: Sausage Making Tuesday, March 15, 6:00pm-7:30pm American Roots Concert Series: Foghorn Stringband Sunday, March 20, 4:00pm-5:30pm; 7:00pm-8:30pm *Virtual* Family Style Series: Brazilian Moqueca Tuesday, March 22, 6:00pm-7:00pm Long Lunch: Mediterranean Flatbread Lunch: Friday, March 25, 11:30am-1:00pm

GALLERIES Regional Juried Art Exhibition 2022 Virtual & In-Person until June 4th Virtual Conversation with Juror & Prize Winners March 24th, 6:30pm Check hillcenterdc.org for more programs and updates!

86 H HILLRAG.COM

night out with friends, Capitol Hill Comedy is sure to deliver a unique experience for all. In addition to appearances by Mensch, Morla and other seasoned comedians, the intimate space features an open mic for anyone to try out their newest material. Mensch described the open mic as a welcoming space for newcomers An aspiring comedian performs at Hamilto try out their material in front ton’s open mic. Photo: Mark Mensh of a live audience without the need for connections or expehave people who come in to test out and rience in comedy. work out new material, and then a play“A lot of other mics, they all have ground because it’s fun. It’s just a fun a pre-signup,” Mensh said. “We have place to be.” some spots that are pre-sign up, but Morla said that Spaghetti on the we keep the bulk of them available for Beach provides a space for newcomers people to just show up and go, which and veteran comedians alike to get feedis exciting.” back from a supportive audience. If you’re not quite ready to take the “Stand up is the only art form that stage as a performer, the audience may you have to practice in front of people,” be the place for you. Morla said. “Everything else you could “I love it when there are non-compractice at home by yourself. Even magics there,” Lyster-Mensch said. “I have ic, you would just stand in front of a been inviting neighbors to come sit at mirror, but with stand up practicing at my table and the audience experience is home means nothing until another perfun, because you’re surrounded by peoson hears the joke and reacts.” ple who, at the beginning of the evening look fairly nervous and scared, and then Getting Involved when they’re done, they become (part The sign-up sheet for the open mic of) the audience, too.” opens at 6:30 p.m. every Tuesday. Lyster-Mensch’s podcast “CoThere is no cost to participate or medic Widows” also focuses on the watch the comedy show—the restaurole of the audience. In the show, rant simply enforces a one item minaimed at understanding comedy from imum from the bar. a different frame of reference, she talks Wherever you are on the cometo family and audience members of dic experience scale, or if you’re just comedians about their experiences someone who just enjoys listening to listening to comedy routines and livcomedy, Hamilton’s is a fun and exing with comics. citing place for people of all abilities to come together for Tuesday nights A Multifaceted Space filled with laughter. Mench said the space offers something fun for everyone regardless of their level of familiarity with comedy or stand up. Speaking about the space, he said, “It’s a kindergarten because new comics go up there and they’re learning stuff for the first time. It is a gym because we have veteran comics who come in, we

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

March 2022 H 87

. arts and dining .

AT THE MOVIES

Two Oscar Contenders: An Inspiring Document of New Journalism and an Historic Look Back at an American Prison Tragedy

very year during Oscar season, Academy voters come up with a winning list of five films for the Best Feature Documentary category. Here are two of the five nominees.

by Mike Canning

regions of their increasingly polarized country. They do this serious work partly on the fly but with a wondrous spirit of collaboration and good humor, with giggles spicing their private moments. Meera is the veteran, touchstone, and mentor for her team, and in the film she is Writing with Fire ably seconded by two younger colleagues, Bravery comes in the form of gently smiling women Shyamkali Devi and crime reporter Suneeta brandishing smartphones in the new documentary Prajapati. After intensive training with “Writing with Fire.” The film shows a fight against Meera, they and other young women, great odds: a determined group of female journalists Grim aftermath of the assault in the prison yard of the Attica already more attuned to new technology, maintain India’s only women-led news outlet, workCorrectional Facility on September 13, 1971, in “Attica.” Photo are now more imbued with journalistic ing in a social environment built to marginalize them courtesy of Showtime Pictures principles and techniques. based on caste and gender. The women of the outlet Indian co-directors Sushmit Ghosh Khabar Lahariya (‘Waves of News’), all from the Dalit country’s most infamous and deadly prison uprising, and Rintu Thomas worked on the film over five caste (“untouchables”), are shown preparing the tranan anniversary recognized by the release of a major years and pulled off a casting coup in finding its trio sition of their newspaper from print to digital even documentary of that name. “Attica” was recently of unassuming stars. The filmmakers also prove that though many of their reporters don’t even have acchosen as one of the Best Documentary films of 2021 they have a great camera’s eye, introducing us to lively cess to electricity at home (this film is unrated and by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and colorful sketches of Indian sites and landscapes. runs 93 minutes). an amazing re-telling of a landmark event. The film’s The picture is the first feature-length film by the coArmed with their smartphones, Chief Reporter setting is grim, yes, but the historical recounting of directors who also produced and shot it, while Ghosh Meera Devi (an imposing presence) and her team this searing event merits discovery by new generations also edited it. of dogged investigative journalists take on some (The film is rated “TVMA” and runs one hour and Though released late last year, “Writing with of India’s biggest issues–exposing the relentless 56 minutes, it is now available on Showtime and Fire” was seen in only a few US markets, but its discrimination against women in their country and streaming on YouTube). Oscar nomination last month has brought it new magnifying the voices of those who suffer from the Attica had seen unrest for some time before the critical raves and renewed attention, enough for it oppressive caste system. They also directly confront uprising with inmates protesting horrendous condito be re-released in some parts of the country. It will stodgy government officials and party mouthpieces in tions at the facility and systemic racist attitudes omnibe on digital platforms (Vudu) at the beginning of their aim to get truthful news stories out in dangerous present (the prison population was about two-thirds March and later be available on DVD. black and brown.) As one surviving inmate sardoniIts initial discovery came early last cally says in the film: “We had 70 percent brown and year when it won two major awards— black prisoners and all the guards were white; what the Audience Award and Special Jury could go wrong.” As one oldster from the time reAward at the 2021 Sundance Film counted: “Inmates were considered like animals.” Festival. It has also won awards at more A morning incident on September 9, 1971, trigthan 20 international film festivals and gered a sudden lockdown in one section of the Attica competitions. with inmates breaking barriers and taking 42 hostagIf I wanted to characterize this es. In an overcrowded prison of over 2,000 prisonpicture with one word (one heard ers, more than half took part in the protest, taking over too little these days) I would say one whole wing of the facility. “heartening.” A winner. Asked about how the directors, Stanley Nelson and Traci Curry, came up with the film’s footage, (From Left) Intrepid Dalit journalists Shyamkali Devi, Meera Devi, Attica Nelson said they had plenty of material, principally and Suneeta Prajapati attending an event in Kashmir in new film “Writing with Fire.” Photo courtesy of Black Ticket Films Last year marked 50 years since the because the inmates invited the media in to see their

88 H HILLRAG.COM

plight. There was no lack of footage from local TV stations and national networks because the story was so singular and stunning. Among the most intriguing footage shown, at length, are the negotiations between prison authorities and inmates, which lasted three days, and was fraught with tension and drama between unrelenting sides. The impasse broke on the morning of September 13, with the arrival of an assault helicopter and the release of tear gas over one of the prison yards, followed by a full scale assault on the unarmed inmates gathered there. It was no contest and lasted less than 20 minutes before the inmates surrendered and the uprising was over. The result: 33 inmates killed, 10 prison guards, all but four of them dead by police bullets. Key to re-telling this appalling story was the decision to include dozens of interviews, many with surviving inmates of the time, now in their 70’s and 80’s, grizzled and regretful, eyewitnesses to the worst prison riot in our history. One of those witnesses wryly observed that Attica was, “In many ways, the end of the 1960’s,” if not the end of prison reform.

Oops! Mistake in Release Date In the last Hill Rag, I wrote that the musical “Cyrano,” would be released in DC on January 28th. In truth, the film opened on February 25th. That earlier date had been given to me by a distributor, and I ran with it. Sorry for the error, but I still urge moviegoers to check out what is a handsome and poignant feature. 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.” www.mikesflix.com ◆

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

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

10 off

Lots & Lots

Wide Width Shoes

All Sales

Limited Time simplywide.com

All Day Comfort

4279 Branch Avenue Marlow Heights, MD 20748

301-702 1401

March 2022 ★ 89

. arts and dining .

ARTandtheCITY by Jim Magner

ARTIST PORTRAIT: ALEKSANDRA KATARGINA

leksandra Katargina wants to hold on to time…not just moments but the emotions of time: the expressions that flow through her consciousness and compose feelings and ideas. She captures the magic of it with a deliberate attention to every aspect of oil painting as a medium. “The emotion” she says, “is in your head.” It’s the power to look, to contemplate, to create something to compete with reality, not just interpret it. In “Lost in the Moonlight” you enter Aleksandra’s spirit in a time of solitude and emotional se-

"Persephone's Plight", oil on linen, 24" x 36"

90 H HILLRAG.COM

clusion. It is the inner bewilderment we feel when our paths are no longer clearly marked. It can be a sudden awakening or a gradual absorption of uneasiness. Give yourself time to think and you can identify with “Persephone’s Plight” — the goddess torn, divided, by the unexpected complications of simple actions with the dismay of apparent hopelessness. Aleksandra uses music to exist in that space between mind and soul and all the requirements of life and motherhood. “Silence can chatter in your mind and music helps to balance art with and all the demands on everyday life.” Aleksandra was born in Moscow, Russia. In 2001 she moved to the United States, “driven by curiosity and a desire to explore new paths in life.” She earned a BFA in Painting from the Maryland Institute College of Art, May, 2009, and an MFA in Painting from Towson University, in May 2013 “Lost in the Moonlight”, Oil on ACM Panel, 24”x18”. Lately, she has been turning more to (Left) portrait photo by Julia Kachalova landscape. In looking at nature you can cleanse your mind…slow down to the pace Without art, we are merely simians with laptops. of growing things. “You become integral to The universe is made of art, not matter. Atoms nature, not just an observer.” Aleksandra projects are merely the brushstrokes, the means of expressher inner emotions onto the scene and welcomes ing the idea. It was the idea that burst from nothing. you to make your personal interpretation. It exploded and formed atoms—particles of matter She is included at the current exhibit at the that swirled and tumbled and filled the idea with art. Hill Center: see At the galleries. Glorious art. Never static. Never still. The universe is hillcenterdc.org • aleksandrakatargina.com made of beauty. Wonder. Art. An idea so immense it can overwhelm and disappear in the begoggled mind Jim Magner’s Thoughts on Art of the beholder. I recently heard a man on television say that he Humans have been allowed to encounter the didn’t like art. What? Gasp. He was joking, right? idea in tiny but ever expanding amounts. It has been No. And this is a very successful person who makes a glimpse of universal time, forever brightening as we lots of money. grow and expand in the idea. We have become able Maybe art, real art is too much to think about. to think beyond the immediate and nibble at its edge. Too much to see. What good is it anyway? We are Why us? We don’t know. Some magic has lifted us— long out of the caves and into hard cold reality, so allowing thoughts so large, so frightening that they maybe we don’t need the magic of art and imaginaare usually put away—locked in a dim vault in the tion. Maybe we’ve advanced beyond all that. mind and permitted only occasional contemplation. Nope. We may be receding. Retrogressing.

But when we do—when we give ourselves enough time to think and figure things out— like Aleksandra (See: Artist Profile)–then the vision becomes clearer. It’s all there in beauty and wonder: Art.

At the Galleries 2022 Regional Juried Exhibit Hill Center Galleries 921 Penn Ave. SE This is really a terrific show. Artists from the DC, Maryland and Virginia metropolitan area submitted original work and 118 pieces were selected—including Aleksandra Katargina (See: Artist Profile.) Just about every art medium is here and you’ll find artistic styles and techniques that represent just about everything going on in the art world today. Prize winners have been selected by the juror, Arts Consultant Claude Elliot. The gallery is now open to in person viewing as well as virtual. hillcenterdc.org/galleries. Foundry Gallery 2018 - 8th Street, N.W. March 4 - 27 Meet the artist each Sunday Allen Hirsh’s show, Phases, uses his personal, unique mathematical painting program that transforms “mundane photographs into multilayered fantasies pulsating with color, firing imaginative landscapes full of startling phases.” info@foundrygallery.org

“Immiscible Liquids,” 48 x 38, by Allen Hirsch at Foundry Gallery, March 4-27

Touchstone Gallery 901 New York Ave NW March 4 - 27, 2022 Public Opening: Sun. March 6, 3 - 5 pm “Another look on the Bright Side.” Cold wax has become Cookie Kerxten’s principal medium as she concentrates on abstractions of color, design and shape. She has left most of her works untitled so that you can interpret them on your own. ‘Introspection’ is a pop-up exhibition also at Touchstone featuring American University MFA candidates. Artists investigate their experiences and memories through the lenses of growth, hometown, family history, and more. Participating artists: Brianne Anderson, Jarrett Arnold, Shiloah Coley, Hyunsuk Erickson, Katie Hartley, Naomi Le, Josh Tetzlaff, Jiazi Yin. touchstonegallery.com

INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING WITH US? CALL KIRA MEANS SR. ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

202.400.3508 KIRA@HILLRAG.COM Capital Community News, Inc.

Note: With this column, I complete 20 years of conversations with artists, visiting galleries and museums and writing about it all. I have loved every minute of it and hope to write many more. A Capitol Hill artist and writer, Jim can be reached at Artandthecity05@aol. com ◆

“Meet You On The Other Side”, oil on ACM panel, 24” x 18”

March 2022 ★ 91

. arts and dining .

the LITERARY HILL

Small Gestures

Edward P. Moser is here to set the record straight. “Since the start of its construction In “The Hundred Choices Department 230 years ago,” he reminds us, “the Capitol Store,” a novel for young readers (grades has witnessed an astonishing amount of tur4-7), Ginger Park paints a bleak but inspirA Compendium of Readers, Writers, Books, & Events moil, bloodshed, and controversy.” ing picture of privation and oppression in In “The Lost History of the Capitol: by Karen Lyon war-torn Korea. Based on her own mother’s The Hidden and Tumultuous Saga of Conlife, Park tells the story through the eyes of gress and the Capitol Building,” Moser tells Mikooki, now an old woman, who was a girl more than thirty stories of duels, canings, riwhen Japan occupied Korea in WWII. ots, bombings, assassination attempts, and School, she tells us, was little more than bootlegging—all of which took place in or child labor—darning socks, polishing boots, near the Capitol. Among the highly dramatic and sewing buttons onto military uniforms accounts are the 1835 beating of a congress“for the war effort.” Worst of all was a nightman by ex-senator Sam Houston; the 1890 marish stint in a dye factory, where the imshooting death of a former representative by age of “ghost-like children hunched over the beleaguered reporter whom he had “bulthe iron vats” haunted her sleep for years lied, browbeaten, and outright beaten”; and to come. the 1954 assault on Congress by Puerto RiMiyooki’s load is lightened by the love can separatists, which left five representaof her older brother, who looks out for her Local historian and tour tives wounded. and supplements her meager school rations guide Edward P. Moser deWhile Moser acknowledges that the inscribes more than 30 drawith bowls of noodles, and by the wealth of matic incidents involving surrection on January 6 “ranks among the her parents, who co-own a luxury departthe Capitol and Congress wildest events in the building’s more than ment store that caters to a haughty Japanese in “The Lost History of the Capitol.” two centuries of existence,” he describes anclientele. “Japan occupied my country,” she other deadly writes defiantly, “but not my heart.” riot that took place on election day in Struggling to make a life for herself, and 1857, when two gangs supported by the angirl who must find the courage to leave her home beinspired by the face of the hollow-eyed boy ti-immigrant Know-Nothing Party—the Plug Uglies hind and rise above the sorrows of her times. she met in the factory, Miyooki helps her mother in from Baltimore and the local Rip Raps—tried to disGinger Park is the award-winning author of five her work with orphans. “Small gestures are never rupt the vote. The president called out the Marines, children’s books, including “My Freedom Trip: A forgotten,” her mother assures her—and dreams of who eventually prevailed, but not before “eight to Child’s Escape from North Korea,” and “Goodbye, a day when she can escape the misery around her. ten people lay dead or fatally wounded, and twenty 382 Shin Dang Dong,” which Newsweek magazine Miyooki’s mother also advises her to “tell a story, to thirty others were wounded.” All were spectators. called “the perfect all-American story.” A lifelong something meaningful.” And that is just what Ginger “A locus of so much power and wealth inevitaresident of the Washington area, she is co-owner Park has done in this achingly beautiful tale of a brave bly leads to considerable bad along with the good,” of CHOCOLATE CHOCOLATE in writes Moser. As the defining symbol of our neighdowntown DC. www.parksisters.com borhood, the Capitol embodies all the beauty, richThe virtual book launch for “The ness, idiosyncrasy—and occasional ugliness—of our Hundred Choices Department Store” nation itself. “The Lost History of the Capitol” is will be on March 23 at 6 pm at www.polan entertaining introduction to the many stories it iticsandprose.com. has to tell. Edward Moser is a historian, tour guide, and ‘Capitol’ Crimes author who served as a speechwriter for George and Misdemeanors H.W. Bush and editor of Time-Life Books. His pre“Never shall I forget my tortured feelings vious books include “The White House’s Unruly when I beheld that noble edifice wrapt in Neighborhood” and “A Patriot’s A to Z of America.” flames,” wrote a horrified Dr. James Ewell in 1814. The local doctor was a witness The Women’s Tour to the torching of the US Capitol by deIn Ginger Park’s novel for young readers, “The HunFrom the Alpha Kappa Alpha mural at Howard Uniparting British troops, who left a smoldred Choices Department versity to a painted tribute to Native American addering path of destruction in their wake. Store,” an old woman tells vocate Zitkala-Ša, Washington boasts a host of sites the story of her girlhood in Lest recent events tempt us to believe Japanese-occupied Korea dedicated to women’s stories. Tour guides and cothat our times are unique in DC history, during WWII.

92 H HILLRAG.COM

THE POETIC HILL

R Tour guides Kaitlin Calogera and Rebecca Grawl present a comprehensive guide to the “111 Places in Women’s History in Washington, DC That You Must Not Miss.”

authors Kaitlin Calogera and Rebecca Grawl describe a passel of them, from A to Z, in a new book, “111 Places in Women’s History in Washington, DC That You Must Not Miss.” Taken on as a “pandemic project” when the two women were unable to offer tours, the guide was intended not only to rebuild tourism but also to “express the character and legacy of our capital city” and to reflect the authors’ “deep appreciation for women’s history in DC.” Each entry features an engaging and clearly written description of the site, with a stunning color photograph by Cynthia Schiavetto Staliunas on the facing page. Also included is helpful information such as the nearest Metro station, website address, and tips referring visitors to related sites. In the back of the book are maps pinpointing each location. The entries range from the littleknown—such as a call box featuring blues musician Flora Molton, who busked on DC street corners for more than 20 years— to more familiar destinations. But the authors manage to put a new spin on even the better-known sites, focusing on the notable women who stayed at the Willard Hotel, for example, or the female agents whose remarkable stories are told at the International Spy Museum. Among the offerings on Capitol Hill, Calogera and Grawl direct the curious to

the Furies House on 11th Street, where a group of radical lesbians established a living, working, and publishing collective; the statues of Olive Seward and Mary McLeod Bethune; the grave of pioneering journalist Anne Royall in Congressional Cemetery; and the apartment building named for Belva Lockwood, the first woman to run for president. Packed with fascinating tidbits—and published in a handy size for stuffing into your bag, “111 Places” provides an invaluable companion to a self-guided tour around town. In fact, it’s so good, it just might put its authors out of business! Kaitlin Calogera is the founder of A Tour of Her Own, the first tourism company in DC to focus exclusively on women’s history. Rebecca Grawl is also a founding member (www.atourofherown.com) and has been a professional DC tour guide for more than a decade. Cynthia Schiavetto Staliunas is an internationally awarded fine arts and destination photographer based in DC. www.schiavettophotography.com u

by Karen Lyon

euben Jackson is a poet, music scholar, and critic who grew up in DC. He served as archivist and curator of the Smithsonian’s Duke Ellington Collection from 1989 to 2009 and his music reviews have appeared in The Washington Post, Washington City Paper, Jazz Times, Jazziz, and on National Public Radio. Jackson’s poems have been published in countless journals, anthologies, and newspapers, and he recently participated in a virtual poetry mixtape, co-sponsored by the Folger Shakespeare Library and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, inspired by the museum’s exhibition on how musical artists have channeled rock & roll to respond to racism. He is currently the Jazz Archives Specialist at the Felix E. Grant Jazz Archives at the University of the District of Columbia. The work below is reprinted from his collection, “Scattered Clouds: New & Selected Poems,” published by Alan Squire Publishing, © 2019. All Rights Reserved. for duke ellington Music is your mistress; demanding constant love and international settings. as always, you stroll beside her. again, grumpy orchestra springs into elegance at the drop of your hand. even so, there are casualties. the years pass. you bury rabbit and swee’pea, run your fingers across the back keys, dip the color into your hair. cancerous nodes rush toward a harrowing cadenza, pen kisses paper, a lover in no particular hurry, the music reveals itself a negligee black note at a time. If you would like to have your poem considered for publication, please send it to klyon@literaryhillbookfest.org. (There is no remuneration.) u

March 2022 H 93

94 ★ HILLRAG.COM

HOW ONE WELLNESS BUSINESS THRIVES DESPITE COVID

hen Henry Ford said, “Coming together is the beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success,” he could have been describing Lavender Retreat on Capitol Hill. While many small wellness businesses have struggled or closed because of the pandemic, international businesswoman Jaime Bohl said 2021 has been the best year since opening

by Pattie Cinelli her wellness club seven years ago. Lavender offers clients an oasis in which to escape everyday stress through therapies such as massage, acupuncture, physical therapy, reflexology, naturopathy and skin care. It also accepts insurance for physical therapy and acupuncture. “The reason why we survive is we work as a team, not as individuals,” she said. “I encourage my staff to maintain a level of integrity. I encourage them to thrive.

I always have their back and they know it. We support each other.” Bohl has had patience, consistency and perseverance. It has taken years to get the balance just right, but she attributes Lavender’s financial success last year to her extraordinary team of practitioners and her remarkable clients. “I look at my employees’ strengths and don’t focus on their weaknesses,” she said. “I meet my staff where they are. It’s okay to have situations.

FROM LEFT: Tuya, DC licensed massage therapist; Agli, DC licensed massage therapist/DC licensed aesthetician; Frances Lutz, DC licensed acupuncturist and owner Jaime Bohl.

March 2022 ★ 95

EMPOWERING A HEALTHIER NEW YOU

Reach out for 1 on 1 virtual coaching support

FROM PATTIE CINELLI

LEARN:

• Exercises to strengthen & improve your respiratory system. • Identify methods to increase your immune function.

Work with Pattie to keep yourself in optimal shape to deal with anything that comes into your path. 30 years of experience

Work with a Certified Functional Aging Specialist

LET’S TALK. CALL OR EMAIL TODAY.

202.329.5514

FITMISS44@AOL.COM • PATTIECINELLI.COM

Now Available ONLINE @ in the Whole Foods Section

The best corn you’ve ever had 100% ALL NATURAL!

NO added sugar, additives, coloring or preservatives

Available at I N T H E F R OZ E N V E G G I E S S E C T I O N

More info and recipes at: larrysweetcorn.com 96 ★ HILLRAG.COM

Together we find a solution.” She said she has put together a staff that accept each other, exchange information and, for the most part, look at the glass as half full.” Bohl has built in time between sessions for practitioners to rest and regroup. She also instituted a mandatory shutdown from 2 to 3 pm daily for lunch and also shut down one week in the summer and one week in the winter to allow practitioners vacation time. “I honor my employees by giving them time for themselves.” She said she learned that one can’t keep giving to others and never give to ourselves without experiencing stress. “I want to make sure my therapists are happy and get adequately compensated.”

No COVID Outbreaks at Lavender Bohl said even before the shutdown she had a system in place. “My facility was always clean. My practitioners and our clients recognized that.” In preparation to reopen, Bohl drastically changed the look and layout of the interior of Lavender. “I removed all the books and magazines in the waiting rooms,” she said. “I ripped up the old carpet and put in a new one. I took out all the pillows, cleaned chair cushions, removed the sofa and put up new wallpaper. I took anything out that could be contaminated and reconfigured our design inside to accommodate COVID guidelines.” Bohl also temporarily cut off a source of income. “I used to sell Lavender Retreat products but because of COVID I didn’t want people touching the items so the inventory is greatly reduced for now.” “When our doors reopened everyone was vaccinated.” Bohl went to extreme lengths to insure her business was clean, germ-free and welcoming. She bought industrial sanitizer. She took temperatures. She used disposable cups instead of glass. Practitioners not only wore masks but also wore face shields. Clients had to wear masks and

show a vaccination card. During a session clients are asked to speak very little and speak before the session begins. “In order to provide our services we had to be safe for clients.” Bohl was also strict with clients’ entering the building. “We kept six-foot distances. I let a person in as one left.” Bohl posted a lengthy letter to clients on Lavender’s website detailing the safety protocols Lavender Retreat would take and how business would be conducted upon reopening. At a time when many businesses are raising prices, Lavender Retreat reduced the cost of services and reduced their length as well. “I used to offer an hour service. But I was concerned about my therapists getting tired so I reduced the price and reduced the time to 50 minutes. It works out well for both clients and therapists.” Businesses like Lavender Retreat often have employees who are independent contractors. Only Bohl, as a fulltime employee, could benefit from the government PPP loans. But Bohl had something other small business owners did not. She had a financial cushion built into her business plan. “I started my business correctly,” she said. “I built in what I call “wiggle room.” I allowed for clients not showing up, mistakes that would be made and continued upgrading for clients.” When the pandemic hit, Bohl had a cushion to carry her through the shutdown. But ultimately, Bohl said. it’s the quality of Lavender Retreat clients and staff that is the key to her continued successful business. For more information call: 202450-2329 or lavender-retreat.com. Pattie Cinelli is a health and fitness professional and journalist who has been writing her column for more than 20 years. She focuses on holistic and non-mainstream ways to stay healthy, get well and connect with your true self. Please email her with questions, comments or column suggestions at: fitmiss44@aol.com. ◆

Look for the 2022

CAPITOL HILL COMMUNITY GUIDE THE ULTIMATE INSIDER’S GUIDE TO LIFE ON THE HILL!

DELIVERED TO YOUR DOORSTEP IN MAY!

What’s Inside? • Community Resources • Service Providers • Home Improvement • Real Estate • Arts & Dining • Pets • Health & Fitness • Local Stories • Neighborhood Updates • & Much More!

IT'S WHAT WE DO. Capitol Hill • Wharf • Southwest • H Street Capitol Riverfront | 20003 | 20002 | 20024

OWN A LOCAL BUSINESS? OUR READERS ARE YOUR NEXT CUSTOMERS. ADVERTISE IN THE GUIDE! Contact One of Our Expert Account Executives Today to Learn More!

Capital Community News, Inc. Publishers of:

RESERVE YOUR SPACE TODAY!

202.543.8300

KIRA X16 | ANDREW X19 | CAROLINA X12 | MARIANA X20 kira@hillrag.com I andrew@hillrag.com I carolina@hillrag.com I mariana@hillrag.com

March 2022 ★ 97

. family life .

/ The District Vet/

OOPS! THE DOG JUST ATE MY STASH! by Dan Teich, DVM

ne of the more frequent types of phone calls we field begins with, “My dog/cat just ate … Is it something I should worry about?” Apparently they will eat just about anything, from plants, trash, to whole tennis balls. Rising in popularity amongst foreign material ingestion has been marijuana and related products. Marijuana (or cannabis) is composed of dried parts of the cannabis plant. In use by people for thousands of years, the plant contains more than 100 chemical compounds called cannabinoids, with some of them having

98 H HILLRAG.COM

psychoactive effects. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the most powerful compound, and is toxic to pets. It must be noted that while cannabis may not be illegal to use under certain conditions within the District, federally, it is still classified as a Schedule 1 drug. CBD, or cannabidiol, another compound found in cannabis, is itself not known to be toxic to dogs and cats. Products with CBD are frequently marketed towards pet owners. CBD has been used to treat arthritis, seizures, and other ailments, but clinical research on its efficacy is still pending. There are a number of ways in which pets are exposed to cannabis and its compounds. The first is by simply eating cannabis. Frequently pet parents are unaware of an ingestion of marijuana. With decriminalization within the District and increased accessibility, smoking of marijuana has increased, leading to the wanton disposal of cannabis-containing blunt butts on the ground. Dogs will readily wolf these down, unnoticed by their humans. Cannabis is frequently baked into various products - including brownies, candies, chocolate bars, etc. Even raw cannabis is attractive to dogs and cats. Other products, such as vape devices, which contain cannabis derivatives, pose a danger. The cartridges may be ingested, leading to clinical toxicity. In addition, the contents of the cartridges may contain many other chemicals, too. This has been seen at District Vet. Smoking near pets may also lead to toxicity. Dogs are much more sensitive to THC than humans as they have more cannabinoid receptors in their brains than us. Therefore smaller amounts go much further! When the drug enters the

body, it is taken up by fatty tissue, enters the brain and liver. THC interacts with brain neuroreceptors, affecting their function and interactions with neurotransmitter chemicals such as dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, and acetylcholine. In pets this leads to neurologic signs. The clinical signs of toxicity are not immediate, though, so if ingested, your pet may seem normal for a few hours while the THC is absorbed by the bloodstream. A classic pure ingestion of cannabis results in a pet that is depressed or excited, is uncoordinated and has difficulty walking, may be salivating, and frequently is dribbling urine. Frequently they have dilated pupils and quite frankly, appear stoned. They may also be moderately lethargic and have a lowered body temperature. In severe cases they have a drop in blood pressure, possibly seizures, or tremors. The good news is that it is rarely fatal and the clinical signs wear off with time. Treatment involves removing the toxin from your pet’s system. If it is a relatively recent ingestion, inducing vomiting, so long as the pet is safe enough to induce emesis, is the first line of treatment. Once cleared from the stomach, activated charcoal, which binds to THC and other compounds, is administered by mouth. This is sometimes repeated a number of times every 6-8 hours, if needed. More complicated cases require the above along with supportive care, such as monitoring blood pressure, administration of intravenous fluids, sedatives if agitated, and other care. The good news is that most pets fully recover from cannabis and TCH toxicity. Removal of the substance and supportive care usually results in full clinical recovery within a day. Whether the dog had a good time and remembers it remains to be seen. Dan Teich, DVM, Medical Director, District Veterinary Hospital. www.districtvet.com u

EASTERN MARKET

YOUR PET DESERVES THIS KIND OF LOVE FROM HER V E T ! CAPITOL HILL OWNED & OP

ERATED

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

240 7th St. SE // 202.888.2090 // districtvet.com // caphill@districtvet.com

March 2022 ★ 99

. family life .

kids&family

SCHOOL NOTES by Susan Braun Johnson

Northeast Stars

Miner Elementary

NES students enjoyed salt painting in which they used pipette droppers filled with water and food coloring to “paint” pre-made salt designs. Using the dropper helps to develop fine motor control, hand strength and coordination, and hand eye coordination. The students also used magnetic discovery trays which involved placing common objects from around the classroom into three bowls on a tray. The students wave the wand over each tray to see which items were magnetic. This activity develops coordination, learning cause and effect, and creative thinking. Northeast Stars Montessori Preschool is located at 1325 Maryland Ave NE, www.nestars.net

The Miner Elementary administration and PTO, along with the help of some veteran teachers, have begun hosting monthly breakfasts for their newest staff members. The Miner Community is committed to welcoming these new team members to their Miner Bear family. The first breakfast was on Jan 28 and they will continue through the end of the school year. Miner Elementary is located at 601 15th St NE, minerelementary.org.

100 H HILLRAG.COM

Maury Elementary The Lunar New Year - Chinese New Year - is always a “red letter day” at Maury ES. To celebrate on February 1, school uniform rules were cast aside with most staff and students sporting festive red gear. Although pandemic precautions precluded the traditional dragon dance, students observed the occasion by entering the school through an impressive (albeit temporary) gate. The school community wishes everyone a Happy New Year! Welcome to the Year of the Tiger! Maury ES, 1250 Constitution Ave. NE, mauryelementary.com.

Photo: Miner PTO.

Van Ness Otters on Ice Students from Van Ness Elementary strapped on their skates for Otters on Ice. With the support of the Canal Park Ice Skating and Wiseguy Pizza, both of which gave a portion of the night’s proceeds to the school, the event was well attended and fun was had by all. Van Ness is located at 1150 5th St SE. vannesselementary. org. Photo: Sue Tiedeman.

March 2022 H 101

. family life .

Waterfront Academy The elementary school students prepared for their Culture Geography Fair. They learned about countries all over the world through craft projects and more. Waterfront Academy is located at 222 M St. SW. https:// www.waterfrontacademy.org. Photo: Kate Oczypok.

102 H HILLRAG.COM

Capitol Hill Day School Capitol Hill Day School’s Field Education Program reinvents the “field trip,” going beyond the traditional look-and-see approach and engaging students deeply with the places they go and the people they meet there. Across the grades, Capitol Hill Day School students embark on over 300 meaningful field education experiences per school year—each tied to a class’ specific curriculum. Second-graders recently visited local store, Hill’s Kitchen to interview business owner and Capitol Hill Day School alum, Leah Daniels, as part of their study of the Capitol Hill neighborhood and how it meets the needs of the community. Capitol Hill Day School is located at 210 South Carolina Ave, SE, www.chds.org.

Eastern HS

Richard Wright PCS Richard Wright students prepare to dissect a sheep’s brain in Forensics class. Richard Wright Public Charter School is located at 475 School St, SW. www.richardwrightpcs.org. Photo: Amir Carter.

Eastern is celebrating Black History Month with interactive whole-school lessons on the contributions of Black people in academics, history, and culture. There is selfreflection in how students see themselves as part of the whole, a focus on love, and a call to action on how students can help spread the word and foster understanding about Afro-centric history and contributions to the world made both now and in the past. A Black History Door decorating contest (see photos) was voted on by the SGA. Congratulations to Ms. Patterson’s class who got some help from City Year! Eastern Senior High School is located at 1700 East Capitol St, NE, easternhighschooldc.org. u Runner up in Eastern’s Black History Month’s door contest is AP Psych students’ door and lead designer 11th grader Vernell Garvin. Photo: L. Braganza.

SERVING GRADES 6-12

YOUR LEGACY STARTS HERE. Apply today for School Year 2022-2023. Seats are limited. Complete the application online through MySchoolDC.org. #ChoosePaul and we’ll choose you back! Increase your chances of being matched with Paul PCS by making us your #1 selection.

WHY PAUL PCS FOR 6-12 GRADE? • Tier 1 High School; on average 1:15 ratio for MS and HS classes • Guaranteed seat for Paul middle school families into Paul IHS • SAT Prep, Tutoring, Honors AP Classes, Dual Enrollment and In-House College Assistance

• Over 20 competitive middle school, Jr. Varsity, and Varsity Athletic teams • Free daily breakfast, lunch and Extended Day afterschool programs including E-Sports, American Sign Language, and Homework Help

• Wraparound Services, Counseling and Student Support Resources for IEP families

Visit www.paulcharter.org to learn more. Questions? Email: Enrollment@paulcharter.org

5800 8th Street NW Washington, DC I (202) 291-7499 March 2022 ★ 103

Blossom Kite Festival On Saturday, March 26 (rain date, March 27), from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., rediscover the joy of kite flying back on the Washington Monument grounds, at featured parks, and at home in 2022. The Blossom Kite Festival is a long-standing DC tradition encouraging attendees of all ages fly kites among the cherry blossom trees. The iconic outdoor event is fun, free, and open to the public. This year will feature both virtual and in-person options so that you can fly your kite from your favorite neighborhood park or anywhere across the globe. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/event/blossom-kite-festival/.

y l i m a f & s kid

Photo: Courtesy of the National Cherry Blossom Festival

NPG Teen Portrait Competition The Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery has opened the Call for Entries for its triennial Teen Portrait Competition. Artists between the ages of 13 and 17 may submit a photographic portrait to the juried competition at NPG-TeenPortraitCompetition@si.edu. The two grand-prize portraits will be printed and displayed at the National Portrait Gallery in 2022. Local teenagers designed the competition for their peers under the supervision of the museum’s education department. The competition was designed to introduce teenagers to the concept of representing identity through portraiture. The competition accepts submissions of photographic portraits only, though digital editing is allowed. The submission deadline is March 29, 2022. npg.si.edu/teen-portrait-competition-rules-requirements. Teen Photo Exhibition by Matailong Du, 2016. Courtesy Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery.

Anacostia River Festival The Anacostia River Festival, Sunday, April 10, 1 to 4 p.m., is a premier event of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. The eighth annual Festival is a celebration of the Anacostia River, Anacostia Park and the neighborhood. It will present a series of musical performances honoring the history and sounds of communities on both sides of the river amplifying the stories, culture, and heritage of neighboring African American residents. Guests can enjoy the sights and sounds of Go-Go music, local drum lines, and military bands and will be socially distanced through chalked “pods” to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The Festival, at Good Hope Rd. and Anacostia Dr. SE, will also feature pre-registered and socially distant river activities such as canoeing and fishing. Visit bridgepark.org to register.

Critically endangered spider tortoise hatches at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo. Photo: Connor Mallon, Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Be a Conservation Hero: Join Zoo Guardians Calling all animal lovers and budding conservationists: the National Zoo is recruiting you for the Young Guardians Initiative. Your mission: save species. If you choose to accept it, you’re in for a wild ride—caring for animals and combating the threats they face. Join Zoo Guardians, a mobile game where players build their own zoos, interact with animals through augmented reality, and learn what species need to thrive under human care and in the wild. Guided by their animal keeper mentors, players can choose from among 67 species to adopt, care for and conserve. Grow your Zoo IQ by completing quests, building habitats, creating social groups and adding enrichment items. Zoo Guardians is free and available at zooguardians.com.

Photo: Ayanah George

(Continued on next spread) 104 ★ HILLRAG.COM

Come se hine r a le n C us! with

YU YING IS OPEN TO ALL! • We’re one of 11 DC public charter schools with equitable access preference. • Parents and guardians – you don’t need to speak Chinese for your child to attend. Learn more and register for an upcoming virtual open house at washingtonyuying.org/enroll

PREK 3 - GRADE 5

March 2022 ★ 105

. family life .

DC High School Students Take College Classes for FREE Calling all DC public and public charter high school students: Jumpstart your college career for free. Dual enrollment allows high school students to experience the academic rigor of college courses and understand what is required for success in college. The fall 2022 Dual Enrollment Consortium Program application opens for all DC Public and Public Charter school students on March 3, 2022 and closes April 1, 2022. Read more about qualifications and apply at osse.dc.gov/page/osse-dual-enrollment-opportunities. ©2022 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. Thomas & Friends™: Explore the Rails! was created by Minnesota Children’s Museum, presented by Fisher-Price.

All Aboard for Thomas & Friends: Explore the Rails! The world’s most beloved #1 blue engine has rolled into National Children’s Museum this winter for exciting fun and adventure. Thomas & Friends: Explore the Rails!, will be at the Museum through Sunday, May 15. Featuring favorite engines and destinations from Thomas & Friends, this STEM–focused exhibit seeks to engage children, ages two through seven, and families in foundational skills that foster STEM literacy through playful learning experiences. The exhibit incorporates foundational STEM practices that encourage thinking mathematically, making comparisons, experimenting to solve problems using a variety of methods and tools, thinking creatively and reflecting on actions and results. Museum admission is $15.95 for one adult and one child. The National Children’s Museum is at 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. nationalchildrensmuseum.org. 106 H HILLRAG.COM

Black Kids Swim The Black Kids Swim website celebrates and publicizes the truth that African-American children can and do excel in the sport of swimming. Black Kids Swim highlights the accomplishments of Black children in the sport of swimming and also serves as a resource for families with experienced swimmers and those with children who want to explore the sport of swimming. There are also multiple resources to help Black children learn basic water safety skills. Black Kids Swim wants to see children do more than simply survive in the water. They want them to develop valuable techniques that can benefit them physically and professionally throughout their lives. blackkidsswim.com.

Applications Open for DPR Summer Camp This summer, DPR will have a wide range of summer camp offerings for ages three to thirteen. Registration for camps will open on a rolling basis during the week of April 4. To ensure their programs are accessible, DPR will again offer reduced rates to qualifying DC residents. dpr.dc.gov/page/ about-camps.

NMAAHC Launches Website for Kids

Mother Goose at Imagination Stage

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture has launched an educational website that will provide a variety of learning activities designed to share African American history using the museum’s collection. The “North Star: A Digital Journey of African American History” website is designed for the discovery and creative use of Smithsonian’s digital collections and tools by educators and students in grades six through twelve. Accessible through desktop, laptop and tablet devices, this site gives students and educators access to more than 35 digital education curricula that will share an overview of American history through the African American lens. The North Star digital journey exposes users to themes, people and moments in history, with units such as Slavery in Colonial America, The Civil War, The Black Arts Movement and the Modern Civil Rights Movement. nmaahc.si.edu/learn/digitallearning/north-star.

A brand new, music-filled piece by the creators of Wake Up, Brother Bear and Mouse on the Move!, Mother Goose leads the audience through some of her most beloved nursery rhymes, using puppets and props to bring to life Humpty Dumpty, Old King Cole, the Eensy Weensy Spider, and more. The magical Mother Goose invites your little ones to join in with each rhyme’s story, teaching them that the very best way to do what needs to be done is to do it together. Tickets are $12 for kids and adults. Mother Goose on stage at Imagination Stage, 4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda, March 11 to April 9, is best suited for ages one to five. ASL-interpreted performance is March 26 at 10 a.m. imaginationstage.org.

Me and the Bee Playground Kids of all ages can “shrink” to bee-size on this pollinator-themed playground sponsored by Land O'Lakes, Inc.! Discover towering flowers and larger-than-life bees, hop along particles of pollen and climb over honeycomb steps. Slide down a hive dripping with golden honey and crawl inside hollow trees where bees build their homes. Then, check out the real pollinator garden that lines the playground. Learn the story of pollination, from bee to food production, and find out how you can help protect bees in your own backyard. The National Zoo is open Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free entry passes are required

for all guests including infants. nationalzoo.si.edu/visit/attractions/me-andbee-playground.

Beastgirl at the KC In this exciting world premiere for young adults based on the chapbook Beastgirl and Other Origin Myths by New York Times bestselling author Elizabeth Acevedo, playwright C. Quintana and composer Janelle Lawrence bring this collection of folkloric poems to the stage with live music.

ANNUAL

Location: Maury Elementary* *We are a DCPS approved Community Business Organization 2022 1250 Constitution Ave. N.E June 28th - August 5th

Children Ages 3-10

Cost: $370 per week

www.ezchildtrack.com/parent3/ParentLogin.aspx?c=politepiggys

Why Choose Polite Piggy’s This Summer?

Your child will find joy, friendships, and caring team members every day. In addition, we offer unique classes like art, music, sciences, Stemovate, chess, fitness, sports, cooking, Legos, and hiking club with Aunt Lizzie. P.S. We forgot to mention there are weekly water play sessions and plenty of popsicles!

FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE

Whether you are looking for the morning, full-day, or eight weeks, we have you covered with top-notch programming. *We have additional COVID safety measures in place to do our best to keep everyone safe.

See Your Family Soon! For More Information:

www.politepiggys.com politepiggysinfo@gmail.com I 240-480-3195 FOLLOWING STRICT COVID-19 STATE’S REGULATIONS Our schools have been successfully operating during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Please refer to the website for the COVID-19 policies.

TEACHING WITH SUCCESS FOR 18 YEARS

YEAR ROUND ENROLLMENT MONTESSORI AND MORE FOR EVERY CHILD

• Certified Licensed Teaching Staff • Potty Training • Superior Academics and Care • Spanish and Yoga Enrichments • AM Meals Provided • Kindergarten Readiness

SUMMER CAMP 2022!

Come explore with us! Week long themed activities WEEKLY ENROLLMENT | AGES 2–6, 7:30 AM - 6 PM REGISTRATION IS OPEN

www.nestars.net To register or to schedule a tour

703.945.0408

northeaststarsmontessori.nes@gmail.com CAPITOL HILL 1325 Maryland Ave., NE Washington, DC 20001

ALEXANDRIA 697 N. Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314

March 2022 ★ 107

. family life .

Smithsonian Summer Camp Returns

The play explores the mythological and geographic adventures of three first generation American sisters. From the border in the Dominican Republic to an apartment rooftop in New York City, Beastgirl considers what it means to walk the world as “beastly” beings and how the myths that make us can be both blessing and birthright. $20. Beastgirl is at the Kennedy Center from April 7 to 22. Most enjoyed by age twelve and older. kennedy-center.org.

PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure” In PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure,” Mayor Goodway is getting everything shipshape for a big Pirate Day celebration in Adventure Bay. When Cap’n Turbot falls into a dark and mysterious cavern, it’s PAW Patrol to the rescue! Chase, Marshall, Rubble, Skye, Rocky and Zuma save Cap’n Turbot and discover a secret pirate treasure map that leads them on an epic adventure. The performance is an interactive live stage show, encouraging audiences to learn pirate catchphrases, dance the pirate boogie and help the pups follow the treasure map and solve picture puzzles throughout their mission. PAW Patrol Live! “The Great Pirate Adventure” is at the EagleBank Arena, 4500 Patriot Cir, Fairfax, for seven performances from March 31 to April 3. Tickets are on sale now. ticketmaster.com.

Music to the Rescue! Super Cello! The city is safe with the help of a unique cellist: professional musician by day, superhero by night. Scottie Rowell of Atlanta’s Teller Productions and NSO cellist David Teie unite to tell a fantastic story using puppets, props, and plenty of music to help a very super musician save the day. Most enjoyed by age three, up. Super Cello is at the Kennedy Center April 9 and 10. Sunday, April. 10 at 4 p.m. is a sensory-friendly performance. kennedy-center.org.

Make Way for the Ducklings Mr. and Mrs. Mallard are exhausted from their search for a starter home when they land in the Boston Public Garden as a potential home. Surprised by a few conditions in the Garden, the Mallards move on to continue their search until their baby ducklings are born. When the ducklings begin to explore the world around them, the challenges of parenthood in the busy Boston environment create a fun bit of family drama. A classic story for all ages, this world premiere musical cele108 H HILLRAG.COM

Whether in person on the National Mall or virtually from your home or vacation getaway, Smithsonian Summer Camp offers one-of-a-kind opportunities to connect with the Smithsonian’s museums and research and meet the people behind it all. A diverse, creative, and experienced team of instructors have designed content for kids entering first through ninth grades. Through visits to museums, talking to experts, and creating projects and artworks, kids explore Smithsonian-focused themes including the natural world, space, art, design, history, world cultures, and much more. Registration is open now at smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/adventures/. Photo: Courtesy of Smithsonian Associates

brates family, Boston, children, and the beings who make an unfamiliar place a home. $25. Adventure Theatre’s Make Way for the Ducklings is on stage at Glen Echo, 7300 MacArthur Blvd. Glen Echo, MD, through March 27. adventuretheatre-mtc.org.

engineergirl.org The Engineer Girl website is designed to bring national attention to the exciting opportunities that engineering represents for girls and women. Why girls and women? Because despite an increase in female participation in many traditionally male-dominated professions such as medicine and law, women remain grossly under-represented in engineering. Engineering and engineers are central to the process of innovation, and innovation drives economic growth. Diversity of thought is crucial to creativity, and by leaving women out of the process of innovation, we lose a key component of diversity and stifle innovation. The website is a service of the National Academy of Engineering and grew out of the work of the NAE Committee on the Diversity of the Engineering Workforce. engineergirl.org.

Because: A Symphony of Serendipity (Little things can have a big effect.) How can music change a young person’s life? See for yourself when Kennedy Center Education Artist-inResidence Mo Willems’s story of chance makes its world premiere as a concert with the National Symphony Orchestra on Sunday, March 20 at 2 and 4 p.m. The 2 p.m. concert is sensory-friendly. Most enjoyed by age five, up. $20 to $55. kennedy-center.org.

Family Dance Workshop: American Ballet Theatre Free, no tickets required. On Sunday, April 3, 11 a.m., join dancers at the Kennedy Center for this 45-minute workshop led by artists from American Ballet Theatre.

Designed for families with children ages 10 and under, the workshop explores music, movement, and/or themes of a ballet while taking families through learning simple ballet steps or choreography. Children must participate with an adult. Pre-registration will be available approximately one month before the event and is highly recommended. kennedy-center.org.

The DC MPD Cadet Corps High School Program The DC MPD Cadet Corps High School Program is designed to prepare high school seniors for entrance into the full-time Cadet Corps. This program enables high school seniors to complete their senior year of school while working part-time for the Metropolitan Police Department Cadet Corps. This part-time option will provide students with unique opportunities to develop their leadership skills, participate in physical training, and learn about policing. Participants will work 12 hours per week and earn an annual salary of approximately $10,691 ($16.91 per hour). Upon graduation from high school, part-time cadets will be converted into a full-time member of the Cadet Corps, and they will be enrolled in the University of the District of Columbia and complete the remainder of their training. joinmpd.dc.gov/career-position-2020/cadet.

American Youth Philharmonic Orchestras Applications Open With a nationally recognized artistic staff, a dedicated professional staff, and a host of volunteers, AYPO annually selects and trains more than 400 of the area’s most talented young musicians. Students up to age 21 are encouraged to audition in June for the opportunity to participate in one of their six orchestras and six instrumental ensembles. Auditions will take place virtually this season with video submissions due Friday, May 27. Rehearsals for the 2022-2023 season will start on Monday evenings in September and continue through May. aypo.org. u

100 Gallatin St. NE Washington, DC 20011

Have you applied to Pre-K yet? Open to ages 3 and 4 FREE for all DC residents.

Pre-K 3 through 5th grade Building a strong foundation for learning

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR ALL GRADES FOR THE 2022-2023 SCHOOL YEAR ADDITIONAL SLOTS FOR STUDENTS WITH HIGH LEVEL SPECIAL EDUCATION NEEDS. ENROLLING FIVE PRE-K CLASSROOMS FOR THE FALL OF 2022. EXPANDED NUMBER OF SLOTS FOR KINDERGARTEN AND 3RD TO 5TH GRADE.

Apply for admissions at:

www.myschooldc.org or call (202) 888-6336 Open Houses School Year 2022-2023 *All sessions will be virtual using ZOOM video conferencing. To register please call (202) 545-0515 or email info@bridgespcs.org to get information on how to join the session.

English

Spanish

Tuesday 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm March 22nd • April 26th May 24th

Tuesday 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm March 22nd • April 26th May 24th

Hover your phone camera over this QR Code to register for an open house or apply to the school.

Introducing a free, new, safe and secure preschool option for all DC families. Apply today for Pride Pre-Kindergarten, presented by Perry Street Prep - a Tier 1 K-8 public charter school in the heart of Northeast. No income restrictions - minimum or maximum.

PROGRAM BENEFITS:

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

• Full day, full week 12-month program • Includes meals and before or aftercare

• Small Class Sizes with 1:9 Ratio • Outdoor Learning Space • Music, Art, Field Trips, Spanish and more!

OVER 30 YEARS of developing, capable and caring 2.5-4 year olds Join the CHCNS family with Ms. Frances

Applications now open at:

info@chcns.us

CHCNS.us

• Apply online at myschooldc.org - limited seats available • Now enrolling all students in PK-8th grade • Tuition-free; before care and afterschool care offered 6:30am - 6:00pm

Give your cub the best in early childhood education - apply to Pride Pre-K today!

FRANKTUTORING Need SAT Help? One-on-One Local Tutoring Service

Nicolas Frank, an experienced tutor, near-perfect scorer, and UCLA student will help your child improve and meet their goals.

Nico Will:

Teach your student strategies to fully understand exam questions and SAT logic

Additional subjects offered grades 5-12:

Analyze and target your students weaknesses to efficiently increase their score Provide ample practice material, indepth questionanalysis, and useful tips

Rates start at $60 hour

Math

English

Calculus

Spanish

Algebra

History

Physics

Chemistry

Rates start at $35 hour

www.franktutoring.com

CALL or TEXT (202)-480-2985 I nico.frank8@gmail.com

1800 Perry Street NE, Washington, DC 20018 March 2022 ★ 109

PROFESSIONAL CLEANING AT AN AFFORDABLE RATE

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

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

ADDRESS NUMBERS BEFORE

BASEMENT SERVICES

CARPET CLEANING

$20Off Your First Clean NEW CLIENT SPECIAL

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

703-719-9850 703-447-9254

WOVEN HISTORY

AFTER

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

CLEANING SERVICES

standardcleaningservicesinc.com REFERENCES • BONDED & INSURED

COMPUTER

ANCHOR C O M P U T E R S

202-251-7980 mongraphicsdc.com

Professional ofessional Home Cleaning

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

APPLIANCES REPAIR

On-site Service for Homes & Businesses Since 1994 Troubleshooting, Repairs & Upgrades Virus & Spyware Removal New & Existing Computer Setup Network & Wireless Installation Data Recovery, Transfer & Back-up TV & Phone Configuration

WOODLAND

Webpage Development

APPLIANCES REPAIR, LLC Your Trusted Capitol Hill Repair Experts!

202-640-2178

202.399.3090

woodlandappliancerepair.com FREE SERVICE CALL WITH REPAIR

$55 OFF

BATHTUB

ANY COMPLETE REPAIR

SERVICE WITHIN 3 HOURS!

No Extra Charge Weekends, Evenings & Holidays

We Service, Repair, and Install all Major Brands No Extra Charge Weekends, Evenings & Holidays

ALL MAKES & MODELS / SERVICE & INSTALLATION

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

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

FREE SERVICE CALL WITH REPAIR!

Nick, Jay, and Sunny Singh Offer 35202.640.2178 Years Combined Experience! CALL NOW!

www.prorepairappliance.com

Licensed, Bonded & Insured

LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED

ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

110 ★ HILLRAG.COM

SANITIZING & DISINFINFECTING

A Cleaning Service, Inc.

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

Refrigerators, Washer/Dryers, Ranges, HVAC Units, Appliances Pro, Inc. Garbage Disposals, Microwaves, “We Repair It Right The First Time!” Icemakers, Freezers and more!

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

LARRY

ELPINER

202.543.7055

anchorcomputers.com admin@anchorcomputers.com

CONTRACTORS

cares about the environment in which you live

Decorative Coatings Refinishing LLC Don’t Replace it. Get it Renewed! decorative-coatings.com • Bathtubs • Ceramic Tile • Fiberglass Surrounds • Sinks • Shower Pans • Claw Foot Tubs

(571) 235-1682

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

703.892.8648

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

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

Call 202.965.1600 DCRA Lic 9115 • Insured • References

www.jfmeyer.com

DOORS & WINDOWS

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

1880 ON THE OUTSIDE

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

(571)437-4696

lgmhomeimprovementsinc.com

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

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

BONDED

INSURED

MEMBER OF

Speak Directly with Owner John Calls Preferred

202.528.2877

JohnHimchak@hotmail.com

Residential & Commercial New Installations • Additional Outlets Panel Upgrades • House Rewiring Ceiling Fans • Tesla Charging Stations

Toni Casey Licensed Electrician 202-684-1915 Wattsthedamagellc wattsthedamage@gmail.com

FREE ESTIMATES

CONTACT GABRIEL TO DISCUSS YOUR NEXT HOME PROJECT

HEATING & AIR

Replacement Windows & Doors 2021 ON THE INSIDE

LICENSED, INSURED & BONDED

FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL NEEDS

Historic Window & Door Replacement Specialists

alex@windowscraft.com 202.288.6660 www.windowscraft.com LICENSED, INSURED AND BONDED

FITNESS

We are Open!

ELECTRICIAN Maximize your Health!

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

Book your classes today! hotyogacapitolhill.com

New Student Special*

One week class pass – all inclusive $49. *For local, new students only.

Please pre-register, and arrive 10-20 minutes before the class starts. Masks are NOT required while on your mat taking class, but are required at other times at the studio. (Subject to updates) We continue to offer ZOOM and on-demand classes.

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

HOUSE HISTORY

FLOORS

Residential Floors Dedicated to Perfection • Sanding and Refinishing • Installation • Repairs • Cleaning & Waxing

7 days a week - Free Estimates Reasonable Rates Residential & Commercial

(301) 990-7775 Family owned and operated 3 Generations of Experience

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

nmhousedetectives.com nmhousedetectives@gmail.com

March 2022 ★ 111

INTERNET

MASONRY

GEORGE HALLIDAY

MASONRY

MOVING & HAULING

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

CONCRETE & BRICKPOINTING

CONTINENTAL MOVERS

• Restoration Cleaning on Historical Brick & Stone

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

Professional Movers Who Really Care

• Basements & Waterproofing • Experts in New & Traditional Masonry

Chimney Repointing, Lining & Repairs! NO Job Too Small! We Do it All!!

202.637.8808 IRONWORK

Licensed, Bonded & Insured

Call for a FREE Quote

202.438.1489 301.340.0602 www.continentalmovers.net

Peach Moving Services When Trust Matters Most Residential, Office & Commercial

PEST CONTROL

F L K Termite, Pest &

Rodent Control More than just killing bugs, we take care of your home Little Peach in Training

Short Term Notice Moves Local & Up to 300 mile Radius Expert Packing & Unpacking Temporary Storage by the Day Hourly Rates

Michael Pietsch (aka Peach) Capitol Hill Resident

LANDSCAPING Redefining Beauty One Client at a Time!

Historic Renovation & Artisan Stonework

Award-Winning Mason with over 30 years of experience

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

202.368.7492

www.peachmoving.com

PAINTING

Call Tom for a Free Estimate

Thomas Landscapes OVER 25 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN CAPITOL HILL

202-544-4484

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

Reasonable Prices : Hill Resident Licensed • Bonded • Insured

Full-Service Landscape Design & Maintenance Installation, arbors, retaining walls, walkways, lighting, water features Patios, roof top gardens, townhomes, single family homes Trees & shrubs, formal & informal gardens

Painting Division Interior & Exterior Custom Painting Drywall & Plastering

Custom Masonry, Fencing and Iron work Restoration and Enhancement

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

301.642.5182 202.322.2322 (Office) thomaslandscapes.com 112 ★ HILLRAG.COM

you saw them in

Call 202.965.1600

DCRA Lic 9115 • Insured • References

www.jfmeyer.com

• Babies, children, pets, no worries, customized treatments • Latest environmentally sound methods and products • One time, monthly, bimonthly, quarterly, yearly LICENSED & INSURED

Free Estimates

301.273.5740 301.576.3286 WWW.FLKPESTCONTROL.COM

PET SERVICES

RADIO/MEDIA

PIANO TUNING

WE WILL BEAT YOUR BEST PRICE New Roofs, Maintenance & Repairs

Piano Tuner

Seamless Gutters Experts

Mark J. Schultz

Stopping Leaks is our Specialty!

Piano Maintenance & Consulting Capitol Hill Resident

Phone: 212-951-1931

WOOD &

Prompt & Professional

WHITACRE ROOFING CONTRACTORS

R.W. ROOFING

We offer the most competitive price in town. All Roofing & Rubber Roofs. We do everything: replacements, repairs, maintenance and coatings. See our ad under general contracting. 202-674-0300 or 301-929-0664.

JEFFREY WOOD cell

Just Say I Need A Plumber®

Licensed Bonded Insured

FLAT ROOF SPECIALIST WE STOP LEAKS! • Roof Repairs • Roof Coatings • Rubber • Metal • Slate

L U M M E R

’

I C E N S E

• Tiles • Chimneys • Gutters • Waterproofing • Roof Certifications

We Do Everything!

202-251-1479 DC P

301.674.1991

www.wood-whitacre.com

Kenny

BOYD CONSTRUCTION INC.

#707

G G ROOFING

AWARDED BEST WASHINGTON, DC CONTRACTOR OF 2012 BY ANGIE’S LIST

LIC. BONDED. INS

Flat Roof Specialists • Modified Bitumen • Skylights • Shingles • Slate

Chimney Repairs • Roof Coatings • Gutters & Downspouts • Preventive Maintenance • Metal Roofs

202.425.1614 WWW.GANDGHOMEIMPROVEMENTS.NET

Licensed & Insured | All Work Managed & Inspected by Owners

Eastern Market Shoe Repair • Shoes • Boots • Purses • Luggage 645 Penn Ave., SE upstairs M-F 8:30-7 • Sat 9-6

202-543-5632

WELDING

BBB

Member

202-223-ROOF (7663) ALL TYPES OF ROOFING REPAIRS

•

10% OFF WITH THIS AD

SHOES

75 years in service

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED • “50 YEARS EXPERIENCE” •

Licensed, Bonded & Insured

FREE ESTIMATES • Work Guaranteed

PLUMBING

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

202.637.8808

30 years on the Hill Slate – Tile – Copper Specializing in all Flat Roof Systems and Leaks

ROOFING/GUTTERS

Dial A Plumber, LLC®

WE DO IT ALL!

Star Roofing Company RELIABLE

Specializing in Residential & Commercial Flat Roof Systems

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

Continental Welding

SPECIALIZING IN IRON REPAIR WORK

4 Iron Gates & Fences 4 Railing & Stairs 4 Steel Repair Work 4 Metal Structural Support 4 Security Gates for Windows & Doors

CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

202-749-1487

continentalwelding@hotmail.com C O N T I N E N TA LW E L D I N G . C O M

March 2022 ★ 113

XWORD

www.themecrosswords.com • www.mylesmellorconcepts.com

“Sporting Sensations” by Myles Mellor Across: 1. Hackneyed 6. Math subj. 9. Ltr. holder 12. Crowd disperser 19. Bishop’s business related 21. “You don’t mean me?!” 22. Let 23. Halfpipe gold sensation 24. Japanese honorific 25. Place into a group 26. Winter Olympics material 27. U.S space agency 28. Secure a vessel 30. Elbe tributary 31. Maitre d’s offerings 34. Frolics 37. ‘’Do __ others . . .’’ 39. Ga. neighbor 40. Nautical ropes 42. Strengthens 45. Spiels 48. Blackens 49. It may need massaging 50. Below-average grade 53. Skiing sensation 58. Critic Roger 60. Greatest boxer 61. Myers’ role 62. Done, to Donne 63. Ancient linear unit 64. Wild goose 66. Put out 67. The Long and Winding ___ 69. Prudential competitor 70. City where William the Conqueror was buried 72. TV channel showing top poker 74. Explorer Amundsen 77. Percussion instrument 81. Master 84. Do it now! 88. Imprison 89. Saucer-shaped craft 90. Alloy

92. Pelican State inst. 93. Succulents of a sort 94. All-time NBA sensation 97. Hosp. workers 98. Org. featured in ‘’The Silence of the Lambs’’ 100. Skin soother 101. Street sign with an arrow 102. Court reporter’s machine 105. Pool contents? 107. Rubberneck 110. Simpsons’ character 111. Selected 113. Fulton’s power 117. Middle-___ 118. Women, slangily 120. “Step ___!” 122. Spoon bender 123. ‘Material Girl’ singer 126. Green soup 128. Super Bowl sensation 131. Manu Ginobili’s full first name 132. Breakfast fare 133. Advances 134. Replace a missing tag 135. Anonymous surname 136. Obstinate animal 137. “The David” display

Down: 1. Obscure 2. Rapidly 3. “The Pink Panther” actor 4. “--- live and breathe” 5. Screen type 6. Queen’s home 7. Snares 8. Shine 9. River in Germany 10. First name in linguistics 11. Made of wine 12. Cursed number 13. Hegelian article 14. Curve 15. Rents anew

Look for this months answers at labyrinthgameshop.com 16. Overcharge 17. “The Age of Anxiety” poet 18. Harsh 20. BYOB part 29. Switch positions 32. Court grp. 33. Excessive, as prices 35. Commendation 36. Middle Ages worker 38. Web address ender 41. Tilted 43. With respect to 44. Work boot feature 45. Middle-eastern kingdom 46. Vex 47. Allied 48. Preposition 50. Credit card enticement 51. Movie, “____ Brokovich” 52. Singer James or Jones

54. Inspiring with admiration 55. Et ___ (following) 56. Olds oldie 57. Roth plan 59. ___ Park, Calif. 65. Acclaim 68. Send the troops home 71. Wandering 73. San ____: near Hearst Castle 74. Invoice abbr. 75. Actor Sharif 76. Fundamentals 78. Yes, in French 79. Patriot’s org. 80. Managed 81. Lug 82. “Kapow!” 83. Type of chair 85. Creamy salad 86. ___ Minor

GAMES AND PUZZLES FOR EVERYONE!

Tues, Thurs, & Friday: 11am -10pm Wed: 11am – 8pm Sat + Sun: 10am – 7pm

645 Pennsylvania Ave SE (Steps from Eastern Market Metro)

• Friendly, knowledgeable staff • Board Games • Card Games • Puzzles • Building Toys • Events

202-544-1059 • labyrinthdc.com 114 ★ HILLRAG.COM

87. Small and weak 91. Flying fish eaters 94. Source of sudden wealth 95. Mafia bigwig 96. Perchance 99. Sacramento newspaper 102. Arizona tourist locale 103. “Take ___” 104. ___-proof 105. Bottled spirits 106. Directives 107. Card shark 108. “It’s only ___!” 109. Foot lever 112. Archipelagic Polynesian kingdom 114. Mathematician 115. Fields 116. Botch 119. Western lily 121. Thanks, for short 124. Center 125. Original name before marriage 127. Lady’s secret 129. Overweight 130. Express mock astonishment

To HILL with the Suburbs! St. Patrick is the Patron saint of Ireland and protector against snakes and liars. To protect yourself and your home against scams, • CHECK CREDENTIALS! Including past work, reviews, licenses, insurance, and any guarantees. • GET IT IN WRITING: Every detail of the work to be done, what materials to use, and what the finished product should look like or do. • PAY IN INSTALLMENTS: Never pay all upfront and hold the last payment until the work is complete and approved by you. If the work needs government inspections, make sure it passes!

TO HILL WITH THE SUBURBS!

12830 Wicomico Beach Rd Escape to a Different World, only an Hour or so away in Newburg, MD. Nestled on 13+ acres of farmland, surrounded by old-growth hardwoods, this huge (2500+ sf), historic 5 bedroom Victorian farmhouse has many upgrades (CAC, Granite counters,) and more, plus a concrete store ADU, a potting shed, fruit trees, parking, workshop, well, and more. A different, less stressful pace of life, in Charles County, MD.

THE SMITH BROTHERS Licensed in DC & MD

jsmithteam@gmail.com John Smith Aaron Smith Peter Davis Office Direct

$650,000

202.262.6037 202.498.6794 301.332.1634 202.608.1880 202.608.1887

THE SMITH BROTHERS WE ARE HOMELESS AND LISTLESS!

Give us Your Home to List, and We will Sell it for YOU! KEEP IN TOUCH ABOUT HILL REAL ESTATE AT/ON: www.facebook.com/TheSmithTeam.DC

twitter.com/OneHillofaAgent

705 North Carolina Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20003

LICENSED IN DC, MD & VA

Hill Rag Magazine – March 2022

Articles inside

Notebook by Kathleen Donner

School Notes by Susan Braun Johnson

The District Vet: Oops! The Dog Just Ate My Stash

Poetic Hill by Karen Lyon

At the Movies by Mike Canning

Comedy Standup at Hamilton’s on Capitol Hill

Delayed DDOT Response to ANC Concerns

Literary Hill by Karen Lyon

Art and The City by Jim Magner

807 Maine Avenue SW Unveiled – ANC 6D Report

Ward 6 ANC Redistricting Plans

Taking Care of Your Roof by Tom Daniel

Gardening Partnership Helps Youth Bloom on Barracks Row: Guerrilla Gardeners Offers Internship To Sasha Bruce Youth–And You Can Help

Tom Rall Says Farewell to Eastern Market

Capitol Hill Community Achievement

It’s March!: The Beekeepers’ Busy Season

Advertisers Listings

Stained Glass: Tradition Lives On

Exposing Interior Brick Walls by Abigail Sekely