Hill Rag Magazine – March 2023

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WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

NATIONAL GALLERY NIGHTS RETURN FOR THE SEASON

On second Thursdays, March 9, April 13, and May 11, 6 to 9 p.m., the NGA East Building comes to life in this popular, free, after-hours program. Join them for themed evenings with music, live performances, artmaking, pop-up talks, and more. Light fare, gelato, and beverages, including beer, wine, and specialty cocktails are available for purchase throughout the East Building and in the Terrace Café and Espresso & Gelato Bar. Registration is required and opens one week in advance at noon. A limited number of passes are online at 10 a.m. the morning of each event, and a few passes will be available at the door—first-come, first-served— starting at 5:30 p.m. nga.gov/calendar/community-events/nights.

DISCOVER THE WORLD OF ORCHIDS AT THE BOTANIC GARDEN

The 27th annual joint orchid exhibit between the United States Botanic Garden and Smithsonian Gardens is “Discover the World of Orchids” which is on display in the USBG Conservatory through April 30.

The exhibit shares stories of the diversity of orchids and how technology advances their conservation. One of the largest plant families in the world, orchid shapes, sizes, colors, and scents vary greatly. Throughout the Conservatory, thousands of orchid blooms showcase the USBG and Smithsonian Gardens’ extensive orchid collections. The gift shop features offerings such as live plants and other botanical gift items. The Botanic Garden Conservatory is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. usbg.gov.

BALLET FLAMENCO SARA BARAS: ALMA AT THE KC

Sara Baras sits among the most renowned figures of the art of flamenco. The internationally acclaimed dancer, choreographer, and superstar of the flamenco world returns to the Kennedy Center on Wednesday, March 29 and Thursday, March 30, 8 p.m., both days. In Alma, flamenco embraces the bolero, and the bolero is embraced by flamenco. Baras pays respect to flamenco’s techniques while fusing it with her own modern touch, brilliant footwork, and captivating stage presence. With lavish costumes and live music performed onstage featuring flamenco rhythms, Alma promises to be an exhilarating evening with the “Flamenco queen” herself. $25 to $89. kennedy-center. org.

STORY DISTRICT’S “SHE COMES FIRST”

On Tuesday, March 14, 7:30 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.), Story District presents She Comes First, an annual Women’s History Month special that showcases true stories told live by DC’s inspiring female-identifying groundbreakers. $20. She Comes First is at Miracle Theatre, 535 Eighth St. SE. Neighborhood parking is tricky. There is a metered public parking lot on Eighth Street, SE between I Street and Virginia Avenue under the highway. themiracletheatre.com.

Photo: Courtesy of Story District

AVANT BARD’S “JULIUS CAESAR”

IRELAND AT THE WHARF

On Saturday, March 18, noon to 6 p.m., the Wharf and Kirwan's Irish Pub are bringing the luck of the Irish to the waterfront with their Ireland at The Wharf festival. Enjoy all the fun of a true Irish festival with Guinness beer, whiskey, bands and bagpipers. All ages are welcome; must be 21+ to consume alcohol. Slainte! wharfdc.com.

Julius Caesar, by William Shakespeare, is one of the most recognized and universally loved productions. Returning from an untimely cancellation in spring 2020 (Season 30), this interpretation of Julius Caesar, directed by Kathleen Akerley, modernizes the story’s politics without targeting Caesar, but by removing Caesar entirely from the stage. The characters in this version of Julius Caesar, much like the citizens of America, are grappling with themselves as much or more than they’re grappling with any particular leader. This production uses mixed media, including film and audio elements, to create a visual masterpiece. $40. “Julius Caesar” is on stage at Avant Bard Theatre, Gunston Arts Center, Theatre Two, 2700 S. Lang Street, Arlington, VA, March 9 to April 1. avantbard.org.

“ONE WORLD CONNECTED” AT AIR AND SPACE

One World Connected tells the story of how taking to the skies and stars fostered two momentous changes in everyday life: the ease in making connections across vast distances and a new perspective of Earth as humanity’s home. Featuring an array of satellites and other tools that have increased human connection, the exhibition asks visitors to consider how global interconnection touches their lives and to imagine how advances in technology might impact our near future. One World Connected is at the National Mall’s Air and Space Museum on the newly renovated second floor. airandspace.si.edu.

BLACK GIRLS ROCK (BGR!FEST) AT THE KC

BGR!FEST is an extraordinary and immersive multi-day live experience, to celebrate and recognize the exceptional cultural contributions of Black women artists, thought leaders, and creatives. Now in its fourth year, this festival spans four days during International Women’s Day weekend, March 9 to 12, across the Kennedy Center campus. BGR!FEST is on the Millennium Stage, 6 p.m. on March 9 and 11; in Studio K on March 9, 10 and 11; in the Concert Hall on March 11. For the complete schedule with details, visit ries/black-girls-rock-fest/.kennedy-center.org/whats-on/festivals-se-

CHEROKEE DAYS FESTIVAL AT THE AMERICAN INDIAN MUSEUM

On Friday, March 31 and Saturday, April 1, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (each day), the three federally recognized Cherokee tribes—Cherokee Nation, United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians, and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indian—showcase the shared history and cultural lifeways of the Cherokee people through storytelling, traditional flute music, wea-ponry, woodcarving, beadwork, traditional games, basket weaving, pot-tery demonstrations, and music and dance performances. This is a museum-wide festival. americanindian.si.edu.

DC BEER FESTIVAL

The DC Beer Festival returns to Nationals Park on Saturday, April 8, noon to 8 p.m., bringing together dozens of craft breweries that will feature spring seasonal beers, plus food trucks, dueling pianos, cover bands, DJs, and more throughout the park. General admission is $50 and VIP Admission is $90 with a choice of two sessions: noon to 3 p.m. and 5 to 8pm. Admission includes unlimited tastings, with food sold separately. VIP Admission will allow attendees to access the warning track and dugouts and receive commemorative tasting glasses and DC Beer Fest hats. beerfests.com/events/dc-beer-festival.

FOLGER CONSORT’S “SHAKESPEARE IN SONG AND STEP”

As part of the Folger’s First Folio celebration (the 400th anniversary), the Folger Consort returns to its home repertoire of music from Shakespeare’s time with the uniquely English broken consort, an “orchestra” of three plucked stringed instruments, flute, fiddle, and bass viol. Folger Consort’s co-Artistic Directors have often noted the similarities between this engaging style, featuring some fancy pickin’, to the music of the Appalachian descendants of British settlers—bluegrass. In this program, they explore that connection as well as songs from Shakespeare and the shared stories of ballads from both traditions. $20 to $45. The Folger Consort performs “Shakespeare in Song and Step” on Friday, March 17, 8 p.m.; Saturday, March 18, 4 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, March 19, at 2:30 p.m., at St. Mark’s, 301 A St. SE. folger.edu.

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS AT CAPITOL ONE ARENA

Founded in 1926 by Abe Saperstein, the Harlem Globetrotters played their first-ever road game on Jan. 7, 1927, in Hinckley, Illinois. The Globetrotters have since become the world’s home team, synonymous with family entertainment and great basketball skills. On Saturday, March 18, your favorite Globetrotter stars are bringing out their amazing basketball skill, outrageous athleticism and a non-stop LOL good time. Join the Globetrotters as they go headto-head against the Washington Generals who will stop at nothing to try and defeat the world’s winningest team. The Harlem Globetrotters., on their 2023 World Tour, are at the Capitol One Arena, 601 F St. NW, on Saturday, March 18 at 1 p.m.; doors at noon. $25 to $180 (VIP BENCH, $435). capitalonearena.viewlift.com.

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

Photo: Brittany Diliberto

SOUNDS OF THE DMV: HIP HOP SHOWCASE AT THE KC

On Saturday, March 25, at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., in the Kennedy Center’s Studio K, experience the dynamism and diversity of the DMV hip hop scene. Tickets are $25 at kennedycenter.org/ whats-on/explore-bygenre/hip-hop.

MURDER CAPITAL AT DC9

The Murder Capital’s first album “When I Have Fears” had all its songs written and recorded within the first nine months of the band knowing each other. Next the band had to learn to navigate their personal relationships through the relationships they harnessed with these new songs. Without knowing what these songs would sound like, the band knew what they wanted them to feel like—and worked backwards from there. And that’s exactly how The Murder Capital ended up with an album that is both totally pure and yet completely confident in its direction. The Murder Capital is at the DC9 Nightclub, 1940 Ninth St. NW, on Friday, March 24, 7:30 p.m. (doors at 7 p.m.). $18 to $20. dc9.club.

PACIFIC OVERTURES AT SIGNATURE

Pacific Overtures is a stunning exploration of tradition and transformation based on historical events. In 1853, after 200 years of stability, Japan faces an American expedition determined to open the “floating kingdom” to trade. The isolationist island’s reckoning with the unwelcome western influence is brilliantly illuminated through a kaleidoscope of stories about sailors, samurai, “someone in a tree” and two friends who choose radically different paths. This innovative epic of East meets West is one of Sondheim’s most ambitious and rarely produced musicals. Pacific Overtures is at Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, from March 7 to April 9. sigtheatre.org.

THE KENNEDY CENTER’S “RIVERRUN”

Spanning World Water Day (March 22) to Earth Day (April 22), hundreds of extraordinary talents from around the world—musicians, actors, dancers, authors, filmmakers, chefs, and visual artists—will converge in Washington, DC, for RiverRun. RiverRun includes world-class performances from artists inspired by our world’s waterways; immersive exhibitions and interactive workshops; and films, writers, and climate experts on rivers and oceans. RiverRun will carve an artistic path through the stages, grand halls, and terraces of the Kennedy Center as well as the studios and green spaces of the REACH—which links the Center to its own river, the Potomac. On Wednesday, April 5, 7:30 p.m., there will be a free, multi-media concert with music and video images from NASA and National Geographic that will dramatize the story of rivers and climate change over the last 20 years on Planet Earth. kennedy-center.org/whats-on/festivalsseries/riverrun.

1972 The “Blue Marble” (Apollo 17). On April 5 at the Terrace Theater, there is a multimedia concert with music and video images from NASA and National Geographic will dramatize the story of rivers and climate change over the last 20 years on Planet Earth. Photo: NASA

SIGN UP FOR YOUR FREE SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOP TODAY

Are you an aspiring or existing business in the District?

The Small Business Resource Center (SBRC) is here for you!

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

Wednesday, March 1, 2023

10:00 am

Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/58977

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

Thursday, March 2, 2023

10:00 am

Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/59413

DLCP AT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD LIBRARY – LEARN THE PROCESS OF STARTING A BUSINESS

Tuesday, March 14, 2023 6:00 pm

Southwest Library 902 Wesley Pl SW, Washington DC 20024 Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/60823

WEBINAR: INTRODUCTION TO GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING

Thursday, March 15, 2023 2:00 pm

Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/60449

WEBINAR: MARSHALL HEIGHTS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATION (MHCDO): STEPS TO OBTAINING A BUSINESS LICENSE

Wednesday, March 15, 2023 6:00 pm

Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/59409

SBRC ONE-ON-ONE CALL SESSION: STEPS TO OBTAINING A BUSINESS LICENSE

Monday – Friday

By appointment between 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events

SBRC ONE-ON-ONE CALL SESSION: “TALK BUSINESS AFTER HOURS”

Wednesdays by appointment between 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events

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

Miercoles con cita de 12:00 pm a 1:00 pm Registro: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events

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

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

WE WHO BELIEVE IN FREEDOM: BLACK FEMINIST DC

We Who Believe in Freedom: Black Feminist DC is an unprecedented exhibition tracing Black feminism in Washington, DC from the turn of the 20th century through the civil rights and Black Power movements to today. The exhibit examines the voices and stories of more than a dozen trailblazing women, from the early Black feminism of the “Jane Crow” era to the future of Black feminism. Standing at the intersection of race, class, and gender, Black feminists fought for a definition of freedom and liberation that extended beyond their individual circumstances—work that remains unfinished today. We Who Believe in Freedom: Black Feminist DC opens at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library on March 31 as part of a partnership between the National Women’s History Museum and DC Public Library. womenshistory. org/black-feminist-dc.

Howler monkey eating flowers, Barro Colorado Island, Panama

WASHINGTON WOMEN IN JAZZ FESTIVAL

Many women are active professionals in the Washington, DC jazz scene, but few are represented as performers on regional jazz festivals. Created by Amy K. Bormet in 2011, the Washington Women in Jazz Festival creates equitable performance opportunities for women while up-lifting the image of the jazz community and drawing in dynamic new audiences. The 13th annual Washington Women in Jazz Festival is from March 6 to 27 at some of the area’s best music venues: Blues Alley in Georgetown (March 6, 13, 20 and 27); Westminster Church SW (March 10); the Atlas Performing Arts Center on Capitol Hill (March 17); My Dead Aunt’s Books in Hyattsville (March 21); Mr. Henry’s on Capitol Hill (March 24); and Goethe Instiut, downtown (March 26). washingtonwomeninjazz.com.

THE MILLENNIUM STAGE

STEP INTO A TROPICAL FOREST: BARRO COLORADO ISLAND 100 YEARS OF DISCOVERIES AND WONDER

Through 2023, celebrate the 100th Birthday of Barro Colorado Island Research Station by immersing yourself in a Panamanian jungle at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History (second floor). From monkeys to microbes, research on the “most studied piece of tropical real estate in the world” gave rise to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, which now hosts 1200 scientists from 50 countries at 12 tropical research facilities, trains young biologists, and contributes new knowledge vital to the future of tropical forests and reefs. naturalhistory.si.edu.

Since 1999, the Kennedy Center Millennium Stage has offered free, live (and livestreamed) performances in the Grand Foyer at 6 p.m., Wednesdays through Saturdays. From American traditional and contemporary performances…to international styles, artists, and global traditions…bluegrass, gospel, hip hop, comedy, opera, dance, spoken word, movement, classical performance and children’s theater have all been featured on their stage. Book tickets in advance online or inperson at the box office the day of each performance. Standing room is also available behind the seated area. kennedy-center.org/ whats-on/millennium-stage.

Born in Cape Town, South Africa, Derek Gripper is a composer, arranger, and virtuoso guitarist. He is known for evoking the West African kora on solo guitar, creating an unprecedented meeting point between the written tradition of Western classical music and the oral tradition of the West African griots. He performs on the Millennium Stage on Saturday, March 25, 6 p.m.

Photo: W. H. Spradley, May 12, 1968. Jack Rottier photograph collection, Collection #C0003, Special Collections and Archives, George Mason University.

Photo: Simon Attwell

Photo: Aleta Elsayed

REAL ESTATE SETTLEMENT SERVICES & TITLE INSURANCE

New Office on Capitol Hill!

Serving the entire DC Metro area (MD and VA)

Residential & Commercial Real Estate Settlements

Specializing in HPAP, DC Open, and DC4ME Programs

Competitive Closing Rates

Partnerships w/National Underwriters: Stewart & Fidelity National

We Conduct Fast and Efficient Closings

Using the Leading Technology Platforms: Qualia, BankShot

Sponsorship & Marketing

Open Houses, HomeBuyer Seminars, CE Classes & More

SHOUT, SISTER, SHOUT! AT FORD’S

Inspired by Gayle F. Wald’s book “Shout, Sister, Shout! The Untold Story of Rockand-Roll Trailblazer Sister Rosetta Tharpe”, this musical tells the story of Sister Rosetta Tharpe--one of America’s most influential rock-and-roll, R&B and gospel crossover singers and guitarists. Ambitious, courageous and uncompromisingly public, Tharpe became a pioneer of the women’s movement for racial and sexual equality and is a musical legend who redefined the national and international music scene in the 1930s and ’40s and beyond. $33 to $90. SHOUT SISTER SHOUT! is at Ford’s Theatre, 514 Tenth St. NW, from March 15 to May 13. fords.org.

YONDER MOUNTAIN STRING BAND AT THE BARNS AT WOLF TRAP

Pioneering jamgrass ensemble Yonder Mountain String Band has been redefining bluegrass music by pushing the envelope into realms of rock ’n’ roll and improvisation for nearly 25 years. The band’s Barns debut showcases how Yonder Mountain String Band has cemented their reputation as one of the most innovative groups on the live music scene. Yonder Mountain String Band is at the Barns at Wolf Trap, 1635 Trap Rd., Vienna, VA, on Friday, March 17 and Saturday, March 18, 8 p.m. (both nights). Tickets start at $47. wolftrap.org.

TO THE WILD SKY: RACHMANINOFF, TENNYSON AND POE

WASHINGTON NATIONAL OPERA’S “BLUE”

In Harlem, a couple celebrates the birth of their firstborn—a boy, Black and beautiful. As the mother worries for her son’s future in today’s America, the father wrestles with his role as a police officer, a “Black man in blue.” When the unimaginable happens years later and a white officer kills the son, their deepest fears come true. Tony Award–winning composer Jeanine Tesori and NAACP Theatre Award–winning librettist Tazewell Thompson’s new opera is inspired by contemporary events and Black literature, including TaNehisi Coates’s “Between the World and Me” and James Baldwin’s “The Fire Next Time.” Tesori’s signature genre blending style captures the grief of a community, the bonds of a family, and the vulnerabilities of protecting a child. By giving voice to the joy and pain of families that are often unheard, “Blue” places timely issues at the forefront of modern opera. $35 to $179. “Blue” is at the Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater for six performances from March 11 to 25. kennedycenter.org.

“Ring out, wild bells, to the wild sky.” On Sunday, March 19, 4 p.m., poetry and music together paint vivid landscapes, evoking unearthly vignettes from the minds of Edgar Allan Poe and Alfred, Lord Tennyson. The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra joins Cathedral Choral Society at Washington National Cathedral for this stunning marriage of music and words. The repertoire is Sergei Rachmaninoff– Isle of the Dead, Op. 29, based on Arnold Böcklin’s painting, Isle of the Dead; Augusta Read Thomas–Ring Out, Wild Bells, text by Alfred, Lord Tennyson; and Sergei Rachmaninoff–The Bells, Op. 35, text by Edgar Allen Poe. Tickets start at $25 with discounts available for educators, healthcare workers, veterans, active military and a pay-what-you wish livestream. cathedral.org.

The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra joins Cathedral Choral Society at Washington National Cathedral for this stunning marriage of music and words.

Carrie Compere as Rosetta Tharpe. Photo: Bronwen Houck

Yonder Mountain String Band

L-R, Kenneth Kelloog (front, left) as the father, Briana Hunter (front, right) as the mother, Gordon Hawkins (back, center) as the reverend. Photo: Karli Cadel

UPCOMING PROGRAMS CONCERTS

House Concerts @ Hill Center: Feat Drew Gibson

Sunday, March 12, 4:30pm-6:30pm

Family Happy Hour with King Bullfrog

Friday, March 17, 5:00pm-7:00pm

FILMS & PERFORMANCES

‘Medicating Normal’ Film Screening & Panel Discussion

Tuesday, March 14, 7:00pm-9:00pm

COOKING CLASSES & TASTINGS

Long Lunch: Portuguese Street Food

Friday, March 3, 11:30am-1:00pm

How to Blind Taste Wine Like a Pro

Friday, March 3, 5:30pm-7:00pm

Caregiver + Child: Easy Indian Desserts to Celebrate Holi!

Sunday, March 5, 11:00am-1:00pm

Master Chef: Fresh and Flavorful for Passover w/ Chef Susan Barocas & Bonnie Benwick

Sunday, March 12, 11:00am-2:00pm

Classic Italian: Eggplant Parmigiana

Thursday, March 16, 6:00pm-8:00pm

Wine Pairings Inspired by the Cantonese Dishes of her Mother & Grandmother w/ Janet Cam

Sunday, March 19, 11:00am-2:00pm

The Whole Beast: Duck Boot Camp

Tuesday, March 21, 6:00pm-8:00pm

Kitchen 101: Sushi Rolling

Tuesday, March 28, 6:00pm-8:00pm

LECTURES & CONVERSATIONS

Profs & Pints DC: Crisis in Brazil and Peru

Thursday, March 2, 6:00pm-8:30pm

STUDIO ARTS

One-Off Workshops

Contemporary Watercolors: Saturday, March 4, 12:00pm-2:00pm

Introduction to Linocut Printmaking:

Saturday, March 4, 2:30pm-5:00pm

Cherry Blossom Sip ‘n Paint: Saturday, March 4, 5:30pm-7:30pm

Contemporary Watercolors Course

Monday, March 6, 13, 20, & 27, 6:30pm-8:00pm

Basic Drawing Techniques: Drawing from an Image

Tuesday, March 7, 14, 21, & 28, 6:30pm-8:00pm

HUMANITIES & PERFORMING ARTS

Writing Your Life: A Workshop

Saturday, March 25, 1:00pm-4:00pm

ONGOING PROGRAMS

Armed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP)

Busy Bees: Music & Art Playgroup

French Courses: All Levels

Frontlines: Infant and Child CPR

Gottaswing

Mr. Mike’s Music Together

Opera Starts with Oh! - Opera Lafayette

Piano Lessons with Gordon Tenney

Shakespeare Theatre Company

Spanish Courses: Beginner Level

Studio One Dance

Super Soccer Stars

Tai Chi Chuan

Tippi Toes Dance

Warrior Fusion Karate

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

LOCAL CALENDAR

Courtesy of the Washington Nationals

power couple—the Schumanns—and their close friend Brahms composed some of the most enduring music in the German Romantic tradition. $25; 18 and under, free. Concerts are at St. Mark’s, 301 A St. SE. chiarina.org.

House Concerts at Hill Center: Ft. Singer-Songwriter & Storyteller Drew Gibson. March 12, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Drew Gibson’s music drifts on influence from the American days of country-blues and the singer-songwriters of the recent past. $15. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. hillcenterdc.org.

Washington Nationals Season Opens. March 30, 1:05 p.m. vs. Braves (home opener); other early games are April 1 and 2 vs. Braves; April 3, 4 and 5 vs. Rays. mlb.com/nationals.

Thomas Jefferson’s Library (exhibition). Open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., in the Thomas Jefferson Building, 10 First St. SE. The Library of Congress is attempting to reassemble Jefferson’s library as it was sold to Congress. loc.gov.

Pacers Social Runs at Capitol Riverfront. Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. Meet at the Pacers Patio at the Capitol Riverfront store for a three to five mile run along the River Front Trail or on one of the Capitol Routes. Runners socialize at BlueJacket after the run. Free. capitolriverfront.org.

Molly’s Salons. During her final months as Arena Stage artistic director, Molly Smith will sit down–live and in-person–with the industry’s brightest thinkers, creators, and doers for intimate conversations about theater’s past, present, and future. On Mondays, 7 to 8 p.m., March 6, Insightful: Laura Penn; March 13, Dynamic-Tazewell Thompson; March 20, TitanJames C. (Jim) Nicola; March 27, Thoughtful-Edgar Dobie; May 8, Probing-Jocelyn Clarke. While the conversations are free and open to the public, tickets must be reserved. arenastage.org.

Capitol City Symphony (CCS Creates). March 11, 7 p.m. This concert at St. Mark’s, 301 A St. SE, features the work of composers who are also members of the orchestra. $15; kids 16 and under, free. Tickets at capitalcitysymphony.org.

Chiarina Chamber Players at St. Mark’s. March 12, 7:30 p.m. The musical

Bloomaroo at The Wharf. April 1, 2 to 9 p.m. Bloomaroo is a free spring extravaganza featuring a full day of cherry-blossom themed art, music, fireworks, and family-friendly fun along the waterfront. Enjoy beer gardens on District pier, s’mores at the firepit, live music and fireworks finale. wharfdc.com.

LOC Concerts. March 17, 8 p.m., Christian Scott aTunde Adjuahl in Coolidge Auditorium; March 20, 8 p.m., Ars Nova Copenhagen at St. Mark’s Episcopal; March 21, 8 p.m., Stephen Hough, Piano at St. Mark’s Episcopal; March 31, 8 p.m., Immanuel Wilkins Quartet in Coolidge Auditorium; April 1, 8 p.m., Wild Up in Coolidge Auditorium. loc.gov.

Ireland on The Wharf. March 18, noon to 6 p.m. Celebrate the beauty and tradition of the Emerald Isle with Guinness beer, whiskey, bands and bagpipers. All ages welcome: must be 21+ to consume alcohol. wharfdc.com.

Circle of Life Dedication at Congressional Cemetery. March 19, 3 to 4 p.m. Join Congressional Cemetery and the designers of the Circle of Life for an outdoor dedication ceremony honoring the creation of this signature cemetery fixture. The event coincides with the Vernal Equinox, a time to celebrate nature’s renewal and longer days as the sun crosses the celestial equator. Congressional Cemetery, 1801 E St. SE. congressionalcemetery.org.

Angels in America Part I: Millennium Approaches. March 24 to April 23 at Arena Stage. We meet Louis and Prior and Harper and Joe, two couples whose relationships are on the rocks; the former because of Prior’s AIDS diagnosis and Louis’ inability to cope with illness, and the latter because of Joe’s closeted homosexuality and Harper’s incessant fears and hallucinations. $56 to $95. arenastage.org. u

Homes andGardens

What Color is Your Zeitgeist?

by Stephanie Cavanaugh

Maybe 25 years ago the neighborhood was in an uproar, which was not at all unusual. We had many more uproars back then. Growing pains, you might say.

The building on the southeast corner of Pennsylvania Avenue, where chef Spike’s Mexican joint is now serving tortillas, was a record store, part of a chain that no one seems to remember the name of. It was plain faced and not particularly noticeable in a row of red brick, until one day it was ablaze in iridescent Caribbean blue, with little sparkles catching the sun like a sprinkling of heavy metal.

Down the block, Mary screamed. Her bathroom faced the street and the sun’s glare showered a blast of blue glitter over her ablutions. “I looked like I’d drowned,” she said, or words to that effect.

She protested here. She protested there. Meetings were held. Every community organization weighed in. The record store management was called. They were quite nice, if a little befuddled. They didn’t expect such a clamor from Capitol Hill. It seems the chain had constant difficulties with the Georgetown Restoration Society over changes to their Georgetown location. With no regulations on paint

A San Francisco Painted Lady façade on Massachusetts Ave.

color, they painted the façade of the building in the most garish paint color they could find. They had a good laugh and sent the leftover paint here.

The upshot was, apologies were extended, the building was repainted something innocuous, and Mary was able to look into her bathroom mirror again.

Should that be a warning about painting your home anything other than… oh, grey for instance?

Painting the Outside

Kristen Hartke and Rick Weber’s house on Massachusetts Avenue was a nice, subdued grey inside and out when they bought it, 25 years ago. An 1860s farmhouse, wood-framed with a big front porch, and lots of detail, she felt it demanded color.

A freelance writer, Kristen’s articles are frequently featured in the Washington Post’s Food section;

she is also a fine arts graduate from the Corcoran School of Art. She knows color.

Inspired by daughter Maddie’s favorite book, Arthur the Aardvark, she had the house painted buttery yel-low with lavender trim and a deep purple front door. Ten years later it was repainted pea green, which was even jollier with the purple trim. More Barney, said Maddie. That was not intentional.

“I loved it,” she said. “It was cheerful and happy. People would stop and photograph it all the time, asking if we were from San Francisco. We just like color.”

Wood houses with their fanciful trim are fairly rare on the Hill, and they do give you more scope for paint play. The large expanse of flat brick on most of our homes can be tricky. Depending on the direction of the light, how the sun hits your house, a bold color can be delightful – or garish.

“A north facing house can be more vibrant,” said Kristen. “We faced northwest. If we were facing south, it would have hurt your eyes.” It is also back from the avenue, nestled in trees and greens, which mute the impact.

The deep purple wall acts like a huge matte around the frames of these John Nieto serigraphs.

The bold chrome yellow provides a stunning backdrop for Pat Spirer’s John Nieto serigraph.

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Since 1995 on Capitol Hill / wovenhistory

Even if you’re wary of o ense, don’t go with the lightest colors on the paint charts, which go from the palest to the deepest saturation of each shade. While that pale shade might feel safe, “you’ll have something that’s faded by the time it’s on the wall,” she said.

Then, pick out details. “Pretty much every house has some window detail to highlight,” she said. “And pick out a front door color that is really visible and doesn’t fade into the house.

Just make it interesting. “Our neighbors did shades of ochre,” she said. Still in the yellow family, and ac-cented with dark olive, “our two houses complemented each other. They were in uenced by us but did their own spin on it.

“People are so worried about resale, she said. “If I’m living in a house it should be one I like, not one that will satisfy a future buyer. When you walk up the front steps every day it should make you happy.”

Kristen and Rick sold the house just over a year ago and moved to Manhattan. Wild colors still ying, it sold for more than the asking price the week it hit the market.

Pantone

Each year an organization called The Pantone Institute selects the Color of the Year. While various paint companies have their choices as well, Pantone is the macher; the power dictating the colors you see in everything from blenders to sheets and towels.

The chosen color is intended to express the zeitgeist, the mood of the times. In years past, the Covid years, the colors were moodier shades of purple, green, grey and yellow.

Building Smartfromthe Start

This year, the chosen one is Viva Magenta, a blast of pink that conjures psychedelics, tropical drinks, and sunsets o Key West. This is de nitely not your Barbie pink.

A radical departure, albeit one a bit di cult to live with in large doses, it’s joyous, playful, and probably best left to accents. Towels might be jolly. But it does scream that strong color is here, and it feels great.

Catching that Zeitgeist

Pat Spirer has lived on the corner of South Carolina and Kentucky Avenue for more than 40 years. Retired from the Department of Agriculture, she travels, gardens, cooks, and paints.

Until recently, the walls of her living room, dining room, and foyer were a delicious pale peach. A lovely shade, particularly in spring, with huge trees surrounding the house, windows framing her gardens. Girly in a good way, romantic, perfect for reading Colette beside the re.

Like Kristen, Pat is an artist. She has a ne arts degree from Michigan State, and her home is lled with her own paintings, and those of artists she adores, including four large serigraphs by Native American artist John Nieto. Flamboyantly colored, slightly abstract, three are of a coyote. A fourth is a dozing man draped in a brilliant red serape.

While the tendency when dealing with art is to keep background colors tame, even white, Pat went bold. Her living room and dining room are a blast of chrome yellow, with a slight greenish cast depending on the light. The hallway is a fabulous, rich, deep purple. Purple and yellow are accents in the painting, so the walls work with them, like huge mattes around the frames.

The art leaps o the walls, looking gloriously fresh, vibrating against

Interior Renovation and Space Planning

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

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

Great front doors being restored in our shop.

a magical backdrop.

She continued the transformation upstairs, painting her bedroom and bath a similar shade of yellow, “it’s so cheerful to wake up to,” she said. The hall bath, long hung with a tiny owered paper in teal, rose, purple and green, got a purple ceiling that draws the eye up to a skylight that frames a patch of sky, nature’s own artwork.

It’s Only Paint

While Pat employed painters to transform her house, unless your walls are a mess of cracks and need a pro to do major patching, painting your own home is not di cult. I’ve painted every room in mine, at least once. Kitchen cabinets, too. (Wallpaper is another story, and don’t do it with your spouse if you want to stay married). There are plenty of on-line tutorials and books, and advice on using at, satin, or gloss formulations.

The biggest problem I’ve encountered is the ceiling edge, which is just too nicky to bother with. So paint the ceiling, while you’re at it. Colored ceilings are totally on trend, as they say. The space feels wrapped in color.

Paint’s not cheap. But even the most costly “designer” colors can be replicated in lower cost brands – just bring a swatch to the paint counter. It’s redecorating in a can.

If you’re feeling timid, invest in a few sample jars, and paint a nice big patch here and there in the room. Or paint an accent wall and live with it for a bit. Check how the light changes the color from dawn to night. Hate it? Get another color. Love it? Go to it.

After all, it’s only paint.

Stephanie Cavanaugh writes a weekly gardening column, of sorts, for the newsy website mylittle-bird.com

Tuckpointing

by Christina Wilson

If your home or office has a brick foundation, it is an integral part of the structure. It is important to keep the brick and mortar in good condition, but basements present a challenge. The below-grade bricks are subject to harsher conditions, causing mortar cracks. Therefore, it is essential to find out: will tuckpointing fix a damp brick basement?

What is Tuckpointing?

Tuckpointing removes and replaces missing, damaged, or deteriorating mortar between bricks. A professional tuckpointing job on a properly constructed building can last for decades. Exactly how long will depend on the quality of craftsmanship and the correct use of materials for the era in which the building was constructed.

Historic buildings require traditional methods and materials to maintain stability and aesthetics—contractors who use new mortar preparations to replace the lime-based one risk creating further problems and costly repairs. In addition, brick compositions are different (depending on when and how they were manufactured) and react differently to weather and structural pressure.

W ill i t F ix a D amp B asement ?

Select a professional specializing in historic buildings when you need brickand-mortar advice and repair.

Why Are Brick Basements Damp?

Brick is a porous material, meaning it absorbs water. With foundations, wet earth and water sit against the brick, and freeze-thaw cycles can cause bricks to shrink and swell, loosening them. Traditional lime mortar is quite weather-resistant, but it can begin to fail once water gets in between it and the brick.

Is Tuckpointing the Solution?

Since the brick is constantly wicking water, it is not unexpected for a historical building to have a damp basement. Basements can have too much moisture if there is a problem with the mortar or brick, and it is not always the foundation that is the problem. Brick and mortar issues above grade can allow water penetration to appear in the basement. Therefore, it is essential to have the problem evaluated by a tuckpointing professional to determine the source of the excess dampness.

Since brick constantly wicks water, it is not unexpected for a historical building to have a damp basement. Basements can have too much moisture if there is a problem with the mortar or brick, and it is not always the foundation that is the problem.

Photo: Courtesy Big Stock

Preserving Capitol Hill BRICK BY BRICK since 1985

Foundation Repairs & Underpinning

Once the cause of the problem is addressed above grade, professional tuckpointing can then x the mortar and damaged brick in the basement walls. Combined with a reliable dehumidi er, the dampness problem is resolved with minimal disruption.

Damp Versus Wet Basements

Consider it an emergency if you see water running down the walls or pooling on the basement floor. Many chimneys have openings in the basement, and water collects there. A crumbling chimney should not be ignored but must be xed immediately if the walls and oors are wet.

Tuckpointing will not x a significantly compromised basement when the problem originates above grade. This type of water damage often requires foundation specialists who can remediate poor drainage, restore structural stability and apply exterior waterproofing treatments. It takes careful excavation to avoid damaging the brick, expert application of foundation treatments, and an understanding of modern water diversion methods to correct these issues. A specialist can pinpoint the problem and recommend the best course of action if you have a historic building with a damp brick basement.

Christina Wilson is the president, founder and CEO of Renaissance Development which specializes in tuckpointing, chimney repair and garden hardscape. For more information call 202-546-2345, or email info@renaissance.com.

framing

Repairing Roofs

on C apitol H ill ’ s H istori C H omes

Most of the homes in Capitol Hill are considered historic. A very significant percentage are more than 125 years old and have roofing and other structural characteristics that add to the charm of living in historic communities of great and lasting importance.

Before I venture into roofing details, I will begin by covering some of the developmental aspects that led to the Hill community as we know it today. Way back in the 19th century, a small group of committed residents, business owners and real estate speculators and developers were instrumental in the passage of the “Projection Act” of 1871, which ultimately provided Capitol Hill with much of the architectural character that exists today. This act allowed bay windows, corner towers or turrets, and porches to “project” into public space granting builders and developers leeway to introduce popular elements of the various historic architectural styles including ornate Queen Anne examples and Federal style, Empire style, Italianate and others. It was also during this period from the 1880’s through the 1890’s that the most substantial growth of Capitol Hill residences occurred and that longer rows of attached housing were developed.

Fast forward to 1964. In that year, Capitol Hill was identified as a Landmark of the National Capitol and in 1973 was designated as a historic district. In 1976 the Capitol Hill Historic District (CHHD) was listed in the National Register of Historic

by Tom Daniel

Places. The CHHD is one of the oldest residential neighborhoods in D.C. and one of the largest historic districts in the country. CHHD was expanded in 1976, 2003 and 2015. Today it is a large area of 200 city squares, about 8,000 buildings and stretches as far east of the U.S. Capitol grounds as 14th St., south to the Navy Yard and north to G St. N.E.

This very interesting background means that your Capitol Hill home is very likely historic in terms of age and requires a substantial amount of TLC and periodic restoration and renovation, including your roof. If it lies within the CHHD there are special rules and regulations regarding construction projects which must be reviewed and approved by the Historic Preservation Office of the D.C. Office of Planning. In addition, regardless of the age of your home, permits for new roofing projects are required and are obtained from the Department of Buildings. (The DOB is a new agency established effective as of Oct. 1, 2022 and has taken on part of the prior responsibilities of the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs).

Capitol Hill Roofs

Most of Hill homes have low-slope roofs (aka flat roofs) on the main structure. In earlier times most of these were terne roofs (traditionally a mixture of tin and lead) and some were

even copper. These roofs could last up to 100 years or more with proper maintenance. I remember many long, hot, humid summers as a teenager and young adult working with my father and uncles tearing off those old roofs and replacing them. Whew! That was then and this is now. While some terne and copper roofs still exist, new replacement roofs will most likely be of single-ply membrane, such as EPDM (rubber membrane), polymer-modified bitumen, and TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin), among others. These singleply roofs are cost-efficient, water resistant, energy-efficient and will generally last 20 years plus with minimal maintenance. We do still maintain the expertise and capability to install new metal

Repair work on slate dormer roof and chimney.

roofs these days, especially copper for either low-slope or slanted roofs. It takes a lot of experience and a skilled hand.

Capitol Hill also has many turret and mansard-style roofs that were originally composed of natural slate. Walk along the 200 block of 8th St. SE, near Eastern Market, and the 1200 block of E St. NE, and you will see dozens of turret-style homes. Natural slate tiles have been used to roof buildings for hundreds of years. Nothing has been able to match the durability, beauty and re-proof qualities of natural slate. We often replace these slate roofs with new slate tile roofs destined to last another 100 years+. This is true, artistic, historic roo ng at its nest. We often use unique Spanish black slate tile, quarried in Spain, on customer projects. The tiles do not fade or weather and remain true to their deep blueblack color and smooth surface. Roo ng-adjacent structures that may be as important as the

Installation of new slate turret roof and copper water table.

roof structure itself include gutters and downspouts and skylights and chimneys. All of these have generally been part of your historic home at the original construction stage and it’s important that they are all properly maintained, repaired and restored along with the roof.

A Case in Point

Let me close with a relevant case study of a Capitol Hill historic home project. Mike and Andrea own a home on E St. NE. There was a slate turret roof with original slate tiles and the original copper built-in-gutter directly below the turret to capture the

New copper and slate turret roof.

copper project.

rainwater. Slate tiles were missing, water was leaking into the house and after many years of repairs we were called to do a comprehensive inspection. It was clear after just a few minutes on site that the turret roof and built-in-gutter could not be salvaged. There is a point in time where more repairs just won’t do the trick and a new roof is the only viable option. This was one of those times. Mike and Andrea chose our recommendation to install a new turret roof with new natural slate tiles and a new copper built-in-gutter. These were the same materials used when the house was built more than 125 years ago. One of the best aspects of this type of project for a roo ng company is the true challenge and also the expertise required. The slate tiles and the copper have to be hand-cut to speci cations, properly aligned and patiently applied. I like to call this “bespoke” roo ng. Like bespoke tailors, the roofing materials are tailor made, customized to t the structure and every project is unique. Needless to say, the project was reviewed and approved by the Historic Preservation O ce.

Tom Daniel is the owner and general manager of R. Thomas Daniel Roo ng, LLC and is the third generation of the Daniel family that has provided roo ng services to thousands of Capitol Hill families for nearly 100 years. He was born in the 300 block of C St S.E., the street behind the Hawk and Dove. The company has been endorsed by Capitol Hill Village for many years. For help with all your roo ng needs, Tom can be reached at 202569-1080 or tom@rthomasdanielroo ng.com. ◆

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Capitol Hill, get ready. Nature is calling on us to be better land stewards. We all have the power to enhance and improve our local landscapes. The well-known entomologist at the University of Delaware, Dr. Doug Tallamy, says “every square inch of planet earth has ecological significance, even where we live, work, and play.” He believes that by choosing ecologically effective plants and removing invasive ornamental plants, we can make a huge difference in determining nature’s fate. In simple words, plant native.

Smithsonian’s Alex Dencker

Alex Dencker recently spoke to the Capitol Hill Garden Club about using native plants and replacing invasive ones. A horticulturist, he has spent his entire career working with plants. He grew up in Silver Spring

Nature Calls

T ime T o P lan T n a T ive

Article and photos by Rindy O’Brien

and attended the University of Maryland. Currently Dencker oversees the Smithsonian’s National History Museum gardens at 1300 Constitution Avenue having joined the garden staff in 2012.

His working knowledge of plants comes from a long career at the nowclosed nursery garden center, Behnke. The nursery was one of the largest and best-known garden centers in the US. “I really learned so much working at Behnke’s because they were so careful with the kind of plants they offered,” he says.

Dencker says that 70 percent of your garden or landscape should be planted in native type trees and plants. “I am hoping over time to reclaim the landscape around the History Museum to include more native plants.” On the east side of the museum at the corner of 12th Street, the Museum maintains Victory Gardens. They are designed to demonstrate what the World War II gardens looked like. “The gardens give us a great way to teach history before visitors even step inside the museum,” says Alex, “and have been a great way to introduce native plants in the raised beds.”

One of the first steps in getting a better hold of your garden spaces is to rid them of invasive species of plants. Over time, invasive plants, think English Ivy or the Bradford Pear in tree species, create a monoculture. They kill off other plants that are essential to pollinators, then impact birds and other animals. “I think of these plants as those that don’t play well with their neighbors,” says Dencker. The Rock Creek National Park maintains the invasive plant atlas, https://www.invasiveplantatlas.org/park.html?id=ROCR, that details 40 species of plants to avoid. The list includes English Ivy, bamboo, common periwinkle, multiflora roses, and Japanese pachysandra. Alex notes that in some cases, like the pachysandra, there are types of species that should be avoided, but other types of pachysandras that are good to plant.

Alex Dencker is head horticulturist at the Smithsonian’s National History Museum.

The Smithsonian’s History Museum features Victory Gardens, which were vegetable gardens that citizens were called on to plant during the world wars to sup-ply civilians and troops.

Early spring finds the Smithsonian staff and American University interns busy cleaning up flower beds at the corner of 12th and Constitution Avenue, NW. Volunteers are always needed; information can be found on the Smithsonian website.

Invasive plants are generally exotic plants introduced to our area often by nurseries because of their beauty or general interest from the public. The plants can reduce biodi-

versity by growing in a large monoculture and choking out the native plants, changing the soil chemistry that shifts the local hydrology and reduces the food and habitat for native animals and pollinators.

Planting Natives

I asked him a question that has always perplexed me—what is a native plant, because aren’t all plants native somewhere? He laughed at this question, but also said it was one he had wrestled with himself. “The safest way to think of a native here in the DC area is to think of any plant east of the Mississippi.” In addition to researching the origins of a plant, looking into its hardy zone rating, and its temperature zones, are good indicators for the success of a plant. “Clearly, a plant that grows well on the coastal lands of the mid-Atlantic will have different needs, then one grown in a mountain region, says Alex, “but with the warming changes in our area, looking at more southern plants may prove successful in our future.”

“I really think there is such a good variety of native plants out there,” Alex says, “that gardeners can really create stunning gardens and help restore the ecology at the same time.” That said, Alex also says mixing a few non-native plants into your garden is fine.

For instance, Russian Sage and members of the mint family can make great additions to your plantings. National Audubon maintains native plant lists that include information on what birds will be attracted to your garden if planted, https://www.audubon. org/native-plants/search?zipcode=20003.

Lahr Native Plants Symposium

On Saturday March 25, 2023, from 9:30 am to 3:45 pm, the US National Arboretum will host the 36th annual native plant symposium. Sarah Strickler, Educational Specialist at the USNA, says that there is space for 140. “You don’t have to be a master gardener to attend. Especially this year there will be sessions for beginner’s starting to design their wland, and several lectures that are more historical.”

The afternoon session with Dean Norton is one that should interest local gardeners and historians alike. He will be discussing George Washington’s efforts to relandscape his Mount Vernon home with native tree and plants often dug up from nearby forests. Dean is the Director of Horticulture at Mount Vernon and has spent 54 years managing the estate.

There will also be a talk on Con-

Native Plant Sale March 25

The Friends of the National Arboretum will be selling native plants March 25 from 8:15 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Meadow Road, that runs between the Arboretum’s Visitor Center and the National Herb Garden. The plant sale is free to the public, advanced registra-tion is preferred but not required. To sign up go to www.fona.org

Native plants can make for a stunning garden, like this one at the US Botanic Garden. If you are looking for ideas to plant, this is a great place to start.

serving the Serpentine Ecosystem at Soldier’s Delight Natural Environment Area in Baltimore County, Maryland. Paula Becker is an ecologist with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and has worked for more than 25 years on a variety of conservation and endangered species programs. The e ort is to restore 1000 acres of the serpentine ecosystem that contains oceanic rock and inhospitable growing conditions. The talk highlights e orts to remove invasive species, prescribed burns and other tactics used to restore the area.

Registration for the all-day symposium is required and the event costs $100 for the day, with a discount for FONA members ($80). The cost provides for all sessions, coffee, and snacks, as well as a box lunch. To register go to https://www.usna.usda.gov/visit/calendar-of-events/36th-annual-lahr-native-plants-symposium. Word to the wise, register early, as it might sell out.

Rindy O’Brien can be contacted at rindyobrien@gmail.com. ◆

A great opportunity to learn more about native plants is at the Lahr Symposium held Saturday, March 24th at the US National Arboretum.

D

my G as s tove R eally H ave to G o ?

Yes or No ?

by Catherine Plume

Suddenly, we seem to be inundated with the news that our beloved gas appliances are actually horrible ogres, spewing harmful chemicals, endangering our lives and our very existence on Earth.

But, just how bad are these appliances and what are the options for lowering your exposure to them?

Gas stoves emit a nasty mix of gases that primarily includes nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide, and formal-dehyde. NO2 is of particular concern as even in low concentrations it can trigger breathing problems for people with asthma or pulmonary diseases. That burning blue flame is actually combustion---climate change emission re-lease—happening right there in your kitchen.

Emissions from gas stoves can be more than double World Health Organization recommended limits. It’s now recommended that you run your ventilation fan/hood on high when-ever you use your gas range, but this only lowers the level of toxic gases if your hood ventilates to the outdoors.

Induction Stoves

Lara Levison, a long-time Ward 6 resident, started hearing about issues with gas stove emissions a couple of years ago. Her stove didn’t have a ventilation hood and installing one that would ventilate to the outside of her Capitol Hill rowhouse would require a reconfiguration of her kitchen. Lara started to look for other stove options, and af-ter some research, she purchased an induction stove with an electric oven.

For Lara, the switch to an induction stove has been relatively easy, and cooking on it is a joy. She notes, “There was already a 240-volt electric outlet in place, and our electric panel had the capacity for an electric stove. The ceramic cooktop is flat and very easy to clean. We no longer have to deal with the messy and greasy grates that our gas stove had. And, as the induction stove top only heats at the contact point with the metal pot, the remain-ing area of the stove is at room temperature, so we’ve actually gained some counter space in our kitchen.” She also appreciates the efficiency of her induction range. “I can heat six cups of water in 3 minutes or less, and when I turn the heat level down, the reaction is immediate.” The downsides of her transition to induction have been minimal. Induction stoves cook food by sending a magnetic field through metal. This only works with pans that contain ferromagnetic met-

al. Lara had to part with her aluminum cookware and her wok, but she can still use her cast iron and stainless steel pots and skillets. There’s a hum when the induction range is on, but she’s gotten used to that.

Costs of Switching

There are costs for changing from gas to electricity. Gas is cheaper than electricity, so if you make the switch, you may see an increase in your electric bill. And, as noted, not all cookware will work on an induction range. To know if your cookware will, put a magnet to it. If it adheres to the pan, it will work. And, unfortunately, induction rang-es are pricey with low-end residential models starting at over $1000 and going up to over $6000. For those who can’t afford this price but want to get rid of their gas stoves, there are options. Traditional (coil-type) electric stoves lack the energy efficiency and precise temperature regulation features of induction ranges, but neither produces the emissions that gas ranges create. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) passed by Congress last year pro-vides rebates for both electric and induction ranges along with a wide array of other electric ap-

oes

Hill resident Lara Levison is glad she made the switch to induction. Credit: Alan Leader

Suddenly, that blue flame isn’t so pretty.

Credit: C. Plume

pliances. The amount of the rebate depends on your income as compared to the median household income in your city.

The DC Council is also considering legislation that would work in tandem with the IRA and make the purchase, in-stallation, and permitting of new electric appliances free for most DC households earning less than $80,000 per year. Healthy Homes and Residential Electri cation Amendment Act of 2023 has a goal of converting at least 30,000 homes to fully electric appliances by 2040. The bill would also prohibit the installation of fossil fuel-burning appliances and heating systems in new public housing and in some public housing renovation projects. Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen is one of the council members who introduced the bill. He notes, “We have a rare opportunity to use big coming federal investments to help District residents make improvements on so many fronts: to have cleaner air in their homes, lower energy bills, and reduce emissions that contribute to cli-mate change. Numerous studies have shown that burning natural gas–which is 80% methane–in homes, stoves, heaters, and other appliances, has negative health impacts, including contributing to childhood asthma. This bill is targeted to help households who couldn’t otherwise a ord to make this switch.”

So how about it? Are you going to make the switch to an electric or induction range? You and your family could literally breathe easier.

Catherine Plume is a lifelong environmentalist, an urban homesteader, writer, and active member of the DC Chap-ter of the Sierra Club. Perspectives expressed are her own and do not necessarily represent the positions of that or-ganization. ◆

T HE C APITOL H ILL G ARDEN C LUB PRESENTS

Dear Garden Problem Lady,

by Wendy Blair

Friends gave us a small kitchen compost pail for Christmas. We have no clue what to put in it.

Your own kitchen scraps can make the best garden fertilizer ever. Yes, put in vegetable leftovers, egg shells, cereal, leftover pasta, and more. NEVER add meat, raw eggs, feces – and more. (Find composting rules online.) Then what? Your pail must be emptied outside, either to your own compost heap; or to a “brown bin” that’s collected by your city. Some American cities do have “brown bins” for useable pre-compost. As yet DC does not. Starting your own outdoor compost heap will take space and many months to ripen, but doing the research and work will reward you with rich, black, light and airy compost for your garden.

Is March too late for me to prune my November-December blooming Kanjiro Camellia?

Almost – January would have been preferable. As you know, Kanjiro belongs to the Sasanqua family of

Japanese camellias. Sasanquas bloom much earlier than spring-blooming Japonica Camellias, and are prized because of their cold hardiness and the dense profusion of their beautiful owers – all over the bush or tree. Cut away dead and crossing branches, shape the plant to the height you need, but delay a harder pruning until next year, just after these thrilling Kanjiro Sasanquas stop blooming.

I’m still in my seventies, but gardening now hurts my hands. I want to sit in the garden and enjoy it but cannot do the work of keeping it up. Suggestions?.

You can motivate yourself as you begin the process of changing your garden to something you can still enjoy. List all the things you cannot do, and then gure out how you can still have a garden without having to leave it. Pay for all the help you can a ord. Slowly work to reduce the garden size. Replace any and all lawns with interesting groundcover plants. Instead of ower beds, plant owers together in grouped pots. Possibly increase shade by planting trees and shrubs. Massed shade plantings are stunningly beautiful and take less water. Planners always recommend native plants because they tolerate drought, but you have to like natives. Do take heart. So many gardeners share your plight that now you can nd lots of advice. The best book I’ve found is by a prize-winning gardener named Sidney Eddison (Timber Press, 2010). It is called Gardening for a Lifetime, How to Garden Wiser as You Grow Older.

The Capitol Hill Garden Club welcomes members and visitors to its meetings without charge. The next meeting is on Tuesday March 14, 2023 at 7:15 pm at the Northeast Library, 7th St. and Maryland Ave NE. Mark Harbold of Full Circle Plant Care Company will explain ‘Green Gardening’.

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. ◆

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.

MARCH INTO A NEW HOME THIS SPRING!

NEWPRICE +INCENTIVES!

1300 Eye Street NE 2BR/2BA

Unit 2: $865,000 Unit 3 or 4: $825,000

STUNNING BOUTIQUE CONDOS WITH SELLER INCENTIVES! All new ground-up construction of unparalleled quality from Schmidt Development maker of Hill mansions! Every unit is a grand corner at ‘Eye’ Street Condominium; Unit 2 delivers a private street-front entrance and garden, Units 3 & 4 offer entry from 13th St gardens with roof deck access. Fully custom kitchen and baths with Amish cabinets, Carrara marble kitchen and baths, plus wide oak floors. Don’t miss the first opportunity to own at EYE first unit owner to purchase receives FREE deeded parking space - a $20k value! Seller 2:1 Buydown offer to reduce monthly mortgage!

COMINGSOON!

1326

G Street SE

3BR/3.5BA

$1,195,000

FRESH FIND FEDERAL FLAT FRONT!

Another beautiful renovation from local builder Scribe Development! Conveniently located near Metro, The Roost, Safeway, and a short stroll to Barracks Row and Eastern Market, enjoy three levels of clean finishes including brand new kitchen and baths! Rear deck + patio / garage! MIXED USE (MU) zone for flex residential or office use!

1215 18th Street NE 4BR/3.5BA $790,000

RENOVATED PORCH FRONT ADJACENT TO 450 ACRES OF ARBORETUM! This smart renovated layout lives large and bright from morning to night, at a price you thought had vanished! Full 2014 renovation in 2014 to upgrade mechanicals, plumbing, wiring and windows, PLUS all new kitchen and baths! Goodsized bedrooms, great outdoor spaces (incl. secure parking), PLUS flexible lower level w/ separate rear walk-out makes this home a perfect package on a quiet block! Enjoy the Arboretum year-round, with EASY access to every amenity at H Street / Atlas and nearby Ivy City!

1814 A Street SE 3BR/3BA

$1,025,000

A+ OASIS ON A STREET!

Behind the sunny facade of this Federal flat porch-front, find innovative layout, renovations of truly custom craftsmanship, luxurious fixtures and finishes, plus a rare DEEP rear garden (100-ft!) with stunning stone patios, outdoor hearth, and detached garage! Custom renovations are all a cut above: 2012 chef’s kitchen, hall bath, and lower den/studio ; 2018 primary suite with knockout bath and custom closets. Don’t miss this truly delightful home just ONE block to metro, and a short stroll to Lincoln Park and the best of The Hill!

521

$1,225,000

MODERN MASTERPIECE INSIDE MILDMANNERED FACADE! Welcome home to another stunning transformation by a local visionary developer, offering 4-bedrooms and 3.5 baths on 3 levels with sleek European styling - overlooking the hills of Congressional! Beautifully crafted casework, finishes and fixtures throughout with great bonuses: spacious elevated deck, rear parking, and separate entry lower level suite - perfect for Airrbnb or future long-term rental! Just TWO blocks to Metro, Roost, River Trails!

1142 Abbey Place NE 3BR/2.5BA

$925,000

A SERENE STREET SURROUNDED BY EXCITING ENERGY! Nestled on a quiet block among the most exciting district developments at Union Market District and the H Street Renaissance, enjoy living at the epicenter in this custom-crafted home on three levels with parking! Renovated by quality Hill builder Connellan & Schmidt, gleaming hardwood floors, plantation shutters, crisp kitchen, skylit upper level and updated baths; bonus LL with wet bar and media room, with bed and bath to welcome short- or long-term guests!

17th Street SE 4BR/3.5BA

Willia m Shelton ee Arborist William Shelton Tree Arborist

Rev. Kevin Vandiver noticed the woman at the back of the sanctuary. She most always attended services but rarely participated. It didn’t take a lengthy investigation with his New York City congregation to determine that she was deaf. She was a part of the community, but often found herself on the outside because of the language barrier.

When Vandiver suggested the church bring in an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter, he met some resistance, particularly due to the cost. But the pastor persisted and over time, he won. After ASL services became part of the service, the congregant grew more involved, becoming a part of the community.

After she passed away, her family made a point of seeking out Vandiver to tell him how much this had mattered. “You made a huge difference for

CAPITOL STREETS

Welcome to Rev. Kevin Vandiver

Lutheran Church of the Reformation Welcomes New Senior Pastor

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

her,” they told him. “You really changed things for her, in this church and in her life.”

Matt Fuehrmeyer recounted this story, which he heard during the search for a new Senior Pastor for the Lutheran Church of the Reformation (212 East Capitol St. NE). Fuehrmeyer said he admired that Vandiver did not view the woman as embodying a new demographic that could broaden the base of the church.

“He saw one person who needed the church to open its arms a little bit wider–and he made it happen. That was the kind of energy that I wanted a new pastor to bring to the congregation,” Fuehrmeyer said.

The rest of the Reformation Call Committee agreed. In January, nearly a year after Pastor Michael Wilker departed the church, Pastor Kevin Vandiver came to lead the Lutheran Church of the Reformation. He was invested on Feb. 12.

Imagine it

Vandiver was born into a Baptist family in Anderson, South Carolina.

“We did not come from much,” Vandiver said of himself and his younger sister, “but there was a lot of love in the house and a lot of encouragement from my mother that we could do what we wanted to do in our lives if we just would imagine it.”

He did just that.

Vandiver was inclined toward the church from an early age; as he built forts in the woods near his home with his older cousins, he demanded they make space for worship. “I would tell them they had to put a church inside,” he recalls, “and I’d make them sit down and I’d preach to them. And so, it was not far from the beaten path to get where I am today.”

Not far, but with a lot of work along the road. Vandiver graduated from Winthrop University in

Rev. Kevin Vandiver on the steps of Reformation, Ash Wednesday. Photo: E. O’Gorek/CCN

Rock Hill, SC, with a B.A. in Music. He earned his Master of Divinity from the Duke University Divinity School in 2014, where he was a Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholar.

It was during this time that Vandiver’s leanings toward Lutheranism began to grow, thanks in part to the friendships he had formed in college. A Buzzfeed quiz he took around this time purported to match the taker with the denomination closest to their beliefs, and it came back as Lutheran.

However, Vandiver initially balked at the complicated process involved in becoming a minister of the ELCA. Instead, he joined an enrichment program that served underprivileged kids in a number of east coast communities.

At Christ Lutheran in South, NC, Vandiver found a role as the church started hosting the program, with its largely Brown and Black attendees. The Director of Outreach told him, “They [the students] need somebody who looks like you,” and introduced him to the senior pastor. That call committee hired him in four days.

He worked towards ordination at Christ Lutheran; then was to Riverside Church in New York City, going on to found a church “plant” in Harlem. In 2020, he was requested as the assistant to the Bishop of Metropolitan New York Synod be-

fore coming to Reformation and the District.

He met his spouse, Dr. Marci J. Vandiver, herself an author, speaker and tenured professor at Towson University in Maryland, in South Carolina. They have two young children.

Taking Steps

Vandiver is tall, a fact emphasized by the long line of his purple sash of office. On this year’s grayskied Ash Wednesday, he sat at the top of the steps of Reformation, taking the open-door policy to its logical extension by placing himself out of doors.

As a young woman approached, he quietly murmured the rite as he gently drew the cross on her forehead. At the top of the steps, he is a calm, quiet, observant presence; behind the pulpit, he is amplified and animated. His sermons are ”empowering, frank, elegant, theologically grounded and challenging,” said Sarah Stauderman, a Reformation congregant and member of the Call Committee.

Those sermons are informed by Vandiver’s energy and experience as well as a great deal of academic work. Vandiver is currently a PhD candidate in Practical Theology with a specialty in Homiletics at Princeton Theological Seminary.

He is still getting familiar with the church and the neighborhood. With the church staff, he has gone out for lunch to local spots, such as the Hawk and Dove. “Everywhere you turn there’s a new adventure,” Vandiver said. “Just little gems to discover.”

Vandiver said he considers himself a big picture thinker, a person who helps to shape community. The “big ‘C’ church is in a pivotal place,” he said, noting that demographers say American Protestantism is on the decline. Reformation is in a unique place to bring the gospel to people in new and exciting ways, he adds.

Tradition and Reformation

Reformation is a church and a congregation known for their history of opening the church to the community. The church has provided a base for activism and acceptance. The church sheltered participants in the March on Washington for Jobs and Justice in 1963. In 2017, the church was a safe haven for participants in the Women’s March, and the next day opened its doors to attendees at President Donald Trump’s inauguration.

“We must model Christ to the world,” Van-

diver said. “That’s our mandate.” But, he adds, it’s important to be clear about who the church is as a community, and maintaining it as a safe space and haven for those people who have been “the last, the lost and the least.”

In that way, the new church leader carries on Reformation tradition. But he is also a break with it: in more than 150 years of church history, nearly a century in the East Capitol edifice, Kevin Vandiver is Reformation’s first Black Senior Pastor.

He is unusual not only in the Lutheran clergy but also in church membership overall. The Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA) has been working to diversify. In 1993, they vowed to ensure that at least 10 percent of congregants would be not-White, a goal that, according to data from Pew, remains unmet.

Members of the Call Committee say they wanted to ensure that the values of the church and congregation were reflected in the choice of a new Se-

Reformation congregant and Scout Leader Del Voss poses with Dr. Marcia J. Vandiver, Rev. Kevin Vandiver, and their young son, Ethan, at the Scout’s Holiday Tree Sale, held at Reformation on Rev. Vandiver’s first day in DC, Dec 4, 2022. A second son, Miles, was born in January 2023. Courtesy: Del Voss

Rev. Vandiver draws an ash cross on a parishioner on Ash Wednesday. Photo: E. O’Gorek/CCN

nior Pastor. “We’ve been preaching change for a long time,” Stauderman said, “and I think we thought that Pastor Kevin was the embodiment of that.”

Fuehrmeyer said that Rev. Vandiver addressed this question head-on in interviews, telling the committee the church had a lot more work to do to become a more open and welcoming place, “and that calling a Black pastor isn’t going to be some kind of instant fix.” Fuehrmeyer said that while he doesn’t think the Call Committee labored under any such delusion, Vandiver demonstrated during the interview process that he was a good fit to walk with them on that journey.

“I just preached about it on Sunday,” Vandiver said, when asked how important it was to be “first” here. “Maybe it will open up ways of people–not just folks who are Black, but for other folks who can see the visible manifestations of the heart of openness that the people of Reformation have and have had.”

Vandiver says he is excited about the future and looking forward to the ways that his gifts will mesh with those of the congregation. He said his goal is to really put emphasis on walking with Reformation to “places unknown.”

He said so in his brief remarks during his investiture service, quoting 1 Corinthians 2:9: “Eyes have not seen; ears have not heard; neither has it entered into our hearts the things that God has prepared for us,” before saying that he can feel that God is going to do something marvelous.

“So, thank you,” he concluded. “I’ll pray for you, and I want you to pray for me.” u

Our River: The Anacostia

Creating and Keeping a Clean River Clean

by Bill Matuszeski

There is a lot going on in the clean-up of the Anacostia River, so much that sometimes it gets very confusing. Let’s take a look at who is doing or sponsoring what and where the potential conflicts may lie.

The Anacostia drains 176 square miles, but only 28 of those are in the District. The rest are divided between Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties in Maryland. The first European settlers found Indian villages along the lower portion and ocean-going ships could dock in what became Bladensburg. But as soon as the settlers got the idea to grow tobacco for export the river began to fill with soil running off the land and port access up-river was history.

The Washington Navy Yard began building ships and creating weapons along the river in 1799 and other industries followed. Washington Gas made products from coal and oil along the river between 1888 and 1948 and intermittently until the mid-60’s. Kenilworth Park was a dredged material disposal location from the early 1900’s and a DC landfill for wastes and ash from 1942 until 1970. Kingman Lake was an incinerator residue dump. And the shoreline area north of Benning Road had a Pepco power station that ran from 1906 to 2012, with a waste transfer station next door that continues to operate. Is it any wonder that we inherited a river with a reputation for serious pollution?

Progress In The Clean-Up

The efforts to restore the Anacostia are well underway. There are still some delays caused by inadequate funding or technology issues. But there is a strong commitment by the DC government and key Federal agencies to keep the different stakeholders working together and to assure continued support from Maryland communities upstream.

The focus of the clean-up effort is on three activities – swimming, fishing and boating. These three have mostly common goals, but also some conflicting needs that still need to be worked out. For example, to be safe some boating areas are in serious need of deepening channels and other waters, including areas that when stirred up could have adverse effects on nearby fisheries and swimming areas.

Getting the river clean enough to swim in has been greatly helped by the tunnels built to capture, hold and pass on sewage and stormwater, preventing overflows to the River from the combined sewers. Now the overflows will be held in enormous tunnels that connect to the Blue Plains Treatment Plant and are released as the capacity there becomes available. The tunnel along the river was completed in 2022; when joined this year by the Northeast Boundary Tunnel up near Rhode Island Avenue, the tunnels will capture and hold 98 percent of the stormwater and sewage that would otherwise have gone into the River. The remaining 2 percent will only occur during heavy storm conditions and will flow into the Potomac where the pollutants will quickly be diluted. There has already been a remarkable improvement to the water quality of the river.

Environmental groups under Riverkeeper leadership have been planning a “splash day” in the River sometime this summer, but it may

need to be simplified or delayed by the City’s Office of Risk Management if everything is not in place in time.

Fishing in the River is also improving and will get even better with the full set of tunnels. Both the number of fish and the safety of consuming them should improve as a result.

Boating will also improve if as a result of improved water quality there is a willingness to deepen channels and remove or relocate the sediments. It is far easier to relocate the bottom sediments if they are not contaminated.

All of these improvements are on a schedule of actions to improve the water quality and take advantage of the reduction in sewage discharges already underway. A set of “early action areas” has been identified as especially in need of clean-up and/or places where we can learn lessons to apply to other areas to hasten recovery or assure its permanence.

These are eleven areas which combine high levels of contamination with a record of regular performance monitoring to build on:

• Kingman Lake: 3 areas, 6 acres, $7 million, dredge & cap

• Wash. Channel: 2 areas, 28 acres, $9 million, all cap

• Main Stem: 6 areas, 44 acres, $19.5 million, dredge & cap

Photo: Rowing Club Vessels at the Anacostia Community Boathouse

Photo: View Up-river from the Washington Yacht Club

A Remaining Challenge

The place where the most potential con icts of this range of e orts come together is the area of the river between the 11th Street Bridge and upstream to the CSX railroad bridge. This area shares many of the swimming and sheries issues throughout the DC portion of Our River, but it has particularly difficult issues to resolve between these and boating. This stretch has many shallow spots and areas of sediments, but also many boats and boatyards that need these places to be deepened and expanded. It is here that concerns about uncovering toxic areas or not deepening the channels enough need to be worked out, and extra care taken to assure adequate safe depths for vessels as well as proper disposal of removed toxic materials.

Believe it or not, the most recent maintenance navigational dredging was completed in 1993. Today, an estimated 300,000 cubic yards of sediment needs to be removed to establish the necessary safety levels for boats using the area. The cost estimate to do this is over $50 million. Potential sources of Federal funds are being looked at.

We are accustomed to taking on tough issues in restoring and improving all aspects of Our River. But the achievement of the full range of restoration goals in this one area will be a challenge to agree to and to pursue. But we really cannot fail to work it out and achieve the full range of the navigation, sheries, and water quality bene ts that will serve us all for many decades.

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. ◆

Defending Against Hate

Hundreds Line Barracks Row to Protect Drag Story Hour

DMV (parasolpatrol.org), an organization that works to shield children from the angry signs, statements and faces of people who come to protest LGBTQ events.

The 700 block of Eighth Street SE was closed by 8 a.m., with Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) presence at the intersection with Pennsylvania Avenue SE. Near 11 a.m., rumors spread that the Proud Boys had been sighted a few blocks away, and members of the MPD mountain bike unit cycled in and took positions across the street.

Proud Boys Never Arrived

Many of those on Barracks Row said they suffered injuries at that event but they still came to Barracks Row to create a protective rainbow barrier. “You want to see some bruising?” asked one person, dressed as a unicorn. “Last time they beat on me.”

Parasol Patrol volunteer John Zittrauer was injured at Loyalty Books as the patrol clashed with protesters; yellow bruising and healing cuts were visible on his face as he stood with the other volunteers outside Crazy Aunt Helen’s. “You dust yourself off, get ready for another day.”

Officers questioned several individuals and a few small groups, walking some individuals away

“It’s incredible, isn’t it?” a passerby said as he walked his dog along the row of people holding multi-colored umbrellas, overwhelmed by sheer colorful numbers. “There’s going to be like four sad dudes that show up,” he predicted.

Hundreds of people lined the 700 block of Eighth Street SE amid reports that a contingent of anti-LGBTQ protesters planned to stage an anti-LGBTQ protest during Tara Hoot’s Drag Brunch Story Hour at LGBTQ-friendly Barracks Row restaurant Crazy Aunt Helen’s (713 Eighth St. SE). Ms. Hoot reads inclusive stories to children at these events.

Many came as early as 8 a.m., holding a line of twirling rainbow umbrellas backed up by a soundtrack of upbeat children’s hits. Even as temperatures dropped and snow fell, they remained in position for the next four hours.

Many were residents of Capitol Hill who were angry that their neighborhood had been targeted for an act of hate. But there were also residents of Dupont Circle and Montgomery County. Many were volunteers with the Parasol Patrol

In the end, no anti-LGBTQ protesters appeared on Barracks Row to face the rainbow line. But the community had concrete reason to be on alert. The previous week, the Parasol Patrol clashed with protesters, including members of right wing organization Proud Boys, as the patrol stood to protect families attending a Drag Queen Story hour at Loyalty Books in Silver Spring.

from the block. But officers on site said they had no reports of any confrontations with Proud Boys or other anti-LGBTQ protesters on the Hill.

Ms. Tara Hoot appeared, resplendent in a rainbow feather boa and bolero over a polka dot dress, finished with pearls and ruffled white gloves. As she prepared to begin story time, Hoot said she was overwhelmed by the support on the Hill and throughout the District.

“I just wish LGBTQI people could feel the same level of support in areas of the country where they’re being attacked “by bills, by state legislatures

Photos and Story by Elizabeth O’Gorek

Drag Queen Tara Hoot said she wished LGBTQ folk throughout the country could feel the same love and protection she felt Saturday.

Diners filled the inside of Crazy Aunt Helen’s as Ms. Tara Hoot prepared to begin Story Hour behind the rainbow. line.

John Zittrauer’s (right) nose was smashed last weekend in defense of an anti-LGBTQ demonstration at Loyalty Books story hour in Silver Spring, MD.

and by violence in places where we should be able to gather safely,” she said.

Crazy Aunt Helen’s co-owner Shayne Mayson said he appreciated that the threat was taken so seriously by MPD and by the community who came out and literally stood by them. “The entire block is filled with people,” he said, ghting emotion. “It’s just amazing to see that much support.”

As snow began to fall, Ms. Tara Hoot came out to thank those who had stood outside. She read to the crowd from “Be Brave, Little One,” changing the opening lines: “When I look at you, shining bright as the sun; I wish for you this: be brave, everyone.”

A great cheer went up as she read the lines, “Be brave to be quiet, be brave to be loud; be brave to achieve and be fully proud.”

“You are all bright lights,” Hoot said in gratitude. “You are all making a real difference in this world.”

Learn more about Drag Queen Story Hour and other events by visiting Crazy Aunt Helen’s at www.crazyaunthelens.com. Follow Tara Hoot on Instagram @ tarahoot and Twitter @therealtarahoot. Learn more about the Parasol Patrol and their work by visiting parasolpatrol.org

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MPD vehicles block Eighth Street at G Street SE.

New H Street Lounge Stirs Controversy

ANC 6A REPORT

by Sarah Payne

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC 6B) met via WebEx on Feb. 9. Commissioners Keya Chatterjee (6A01, vice chair), Mike Velasquez (6A02), Roberta Shapiro (6A03), Robb Dooling (6A06) and Steve Moilanen (6A07) were present. Amber Gove (6A04, chair) and Laura Gentile (6A05) were absent.

Commissioners discussed supporting the Class C liquor application by Vybrations Restaurant and Lounge (1123 H St NE).

“The previous occupants of this establishment de nitely were not good neighbors,” Commissioner Velasquez said. “So, like many of our neighbors, I’m very skeptical of anyone who comes in and it’s not something that’s personal to a particular ownership group, it’s a long-held reaction to trauma that this neighborhood experienced.”

Noise, Commissioner Dooling agreed, is a major concern for neighbors in the surrounding blocks, particularly given plans to o er outdoor live music. Neighbors echoed his sentiments.

“I heard that there might be signage and I heard keeping music at a reasonable level,” a neighbor said of the proposal for an outdoor roof patio.

“I think those are cute ideas, but are they enforceable?” asked neighbor Jessie Blumenthal rhetorically. “It’s obvious from even a cursory review that this is the exact same bad offender who was a nuisance for a decade plus,” he continued. Blumenthal encouraged the ANC to protest the application.

“Parking is hugely problematic,” Megan Uzell, who lives

within close proximity, said.

“I think you need to take into consideration that the establishment has a 350-load capacity, which is by far the largest in our area and adding that as volume of foot tra c and vehicles and Ubers…I would love to think everyone would avail themselves of the awesome street car, but that’s not going to happen.”

“The proposed schedule for trash pickup could potentially increase the number of rodents and issues around that,” stated the president of the 1115 H St Condo Association, raising concerns about sanitation.

Applicants Karie and Kathon Van Hook promised to respect capacity limits and restrict live music inside the establishment. They are exploring interior soundproo ng measures, they stated. “We just want you to understand that we understand your concerns, because we’ve lived there and we’ve seen how it has changed and what it was before,” Van Hook said. “We de nitely want to keep moving forward.”

“We have no plans to make it a club,” Van Hook said. “I understand your concern, I totally get it…but somebody will come there and we want it to be us. We think that you all will love what we’re going to bring to the community.”

Commissioners voted four to one to protest the application on the grounds of peace order and quiet unless a settlement agreement with the establishment prior to its hearing.

Other Matters

The commissioner appointed Angelique Dorazio Sanders and Clare Dougherty, Elizabeth Corinth, Stephanie Myers and Gail Sullivan to the Community Outreach Committee (COC).

The commissioners voted to request the Department of Public Works (DPW) provide curbside composting and additional compost drop o facilities.

The commission decided to write the Director of the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) regarding changes and transparency of the Tra c Safety Investigation (TSI) Dashboard. The alterations had created “enormous problems” raised due to the dashboard’s “incomplete,” “edited” and “obfuscated” information, stated Commissioner Shapiro.

The commission authorized Commissioners Gove Chatterjee or Shapiro to testify at the DDOT’s performance oversight hear-

ing. It directed they raise the issues of rising traffic violence, increased transparency in the traffic safety investigations, increased automated traffic enforcement and booting and towing of vehicles.

Commissioners appointed Erin Blumenthal to the Alcohol Beverage Licensing (ABL) committee and Ayisha Lockett, Jeremiah Foxwell and Joal Mendonsa as to the Economic Development and Zoning (EDZ) Committee.

The next meeting of ANC 6A is 7 p.m. March 14. Get details on committee meetings and how to join online at anc6a.org.

the following: Frank Avery (6B01, Treasurer); Jerry Sroufe (6B02), David Sobelsohn (6B03, Secretary); Frank D’Andrea (6B04); Kasie Durkit (6B05, Parliamentarian); Chander Jayaraman (6B06, Vice Chair); Vince Mareino (6B07); Edward Ryder (6B08, Chair); Matt LaFortune (6B09).

The ANC voted to request that the Alcoholic Beverage Regulation Administration (ABRA) reconsider an order to dismiss a neighbor protest against an application for a substantial change from Harvest Tide Steak House. The application seeks to expand licensing to include live music. At their January 10 meeting, the ANC voted to send a letter in support of the application, located in the Single Member District (SMD) of Gerald Jerry Sroufe (6B02), with an amended settlement agreement (SA).

Harsh Reaction to ANC 6B Support for Harvest Tide Live Music

ANC 6B REPORT

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

The February 15 meeting of Advisory neighborhood Commission

(ANC) 6B began with a moment of silence and ended with a resolution. Both honored Robert Cunningham, the 64-year-old WMATA employee who gave his life to protect others from a shooter at Potomac Metro Station on Feb. 1.

Appearing at the meeting were

However, at the February meeting a group of nearby residents their extreme displeasure with the ANC decision and with the insufficient notice they said was provided for the meeting. They have serious complaints about trash and parking connected to Harvest Tide, they said, arguing that Sroufe should have informed them and should have realized that neighbors had issues with the business.

A protest had been filed in January by a group of neighbors living across the alley between Seventh and Eighth Streets SE. ANC Alcohol Beverage Committee (ABC) Chair Chander Jayaraman (6B06) said that legally, once ABRA has received the ANC letter in support of the Harvest Tide application, ABRA had to disregard all other filed protests from any party except any abutting neighbors. But, said

ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION 6A

AMBER GOVE, CHAIR, 6A04@ANC.DC.GOV

Serving the Near Northeast, North Lincoln Park, and H Street communities

ANC 6A generally meets the second Thursday of the month, virtually on Zoom.

www.anc6a.org

ALL ARE WELCOME

The Next meeting is 2nd Thursday, March 9, 7:00 p.m.

Transportation & Public Space Committee meeting

3rd Tuesday, March 21, 7:00 p.m.

Virtual Meeting via Zoom

Economic Development and Zoning Committee meeting

3rd Wednesday, March 15, 7:00 p.m.

Virtual Meeting via Zoom

Community Outreach Committee meeting

4th Monday, March 27, 7:00 p.m.

Virtual Meeting via Zoom

Alcohol Beverage Licensing Committee meeting

4th Tuesday, March 28, 7:00 p.m.

Virtual Meeting via Zoom

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

Advisory

Neighborhood Commission 6C

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

Next meeting Wednesday, March 8, 2023. Information will be posted on the ANC 6C website.

ANC 6C COMMISSIONERS ANC 6C COMMITTEES

ANC 6C01

Christy Kwan 6C01@anc.dc.gov

ANC 6C02

Leslie Merkle 6C02@anc.dc.gov

ANC 6C03

Jay Adelstein 6C03@anc.dc.gov

ANC 6C04

Mark Eckenwiler 6C04@anc.dc.gov

ANC 6C05

Joel Kelty 6C05@anc.dc.gov

ANC 6C06

Patricia Eguino 6C06@anc.dc.gov

ANC 6C07

Tony Goodman 6C07@anc.dc.gov

Alcoholic Beverage Licensing

First Monday, 7 pm

Contact: drew.courtney@gmail.com

Grants

Last Thursday, 7 pm

Contact: torylord@gmail.com

Twitter: @ANC_6C_Grants

Environment, Parks, and Events

First Tuesday, 7 pm

Contact: jgmccann@gmail.com

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

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

Instructions for accessing the meeting via Zoom 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.

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY PUBLIC HEARING AND PUBLIC COMMENT NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO DISCUSS UPDATES TO ADMINISTRATIVE PLAN, ADMISSIONS AND CONTINUED OCCPANCY PLAN (ACOP), AND 2023 MOVING TO WORK (MTW) PLAN

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) is providing notice of a Public Hearing and Comment Period to solicit comments on updates to its Administrative Plan, Admissions and Continued Occupancy Plan (ACOP) and 2023 Moving to Work (MTW) Plan.

DCHA is updating its policies to align with all HUD regulations, except where MTW flexibilities have been authorized, and incorporate industry best practices. The Administrative Plan outlines voucher program policies, the ACOP outlines public housing policies and the MTW Plan outlines operating plans for the fiscal year. The MTW Plan also requests and provides updates regarding MTW flexibilities with the intent to: 1) reduce costs and improve efficiencies; 2) encourage residents to obtain employment and become economically self-sufficient; and 3) increase housing choices for low-income families.

The Public Hearing will take place online at 6 pm on Monday, March 6, 2023 at https://www.facebook.com/dchousing.

Comments

Written comments regarding the MTW Plan will be accepted through Thursday, March 16, 2023. Written comments regarding the ACOP and Administrative Plan will be accepted through Friday, March 31, 2023

Email your comments to MTW@dchousing.org. Alternatively, you can mail comments to:

Hanna Koerner c/o DCHA

1133 North Capitol Street NE, Suite 200 Washington, DC 20002

To request a copy of the draft Administrative Plan, ACOP, and/or MTW plan, please call (202) 681-1487; send an email to MTW@dchousing.org; or download from the DCHA website at www.dchousing.org/mtw2 beginning Tuesday, February 14, 2023.

Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation

DCHA strives to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully. It is the policy of DCHA that all agency-sponsored public meetings and events are accessible to people with disabilities. DCHA is committed to providing equal access to events for all participants & residents with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation, or assistance in participating in a meeting or event due to a disability as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact our ADA/504 Program Office’s Language Department at 202-5351000 or at ADA504@dchousing.org with your complete request. Your request should be made at least 3 business days before the scheduled meeting or event so that ADA/504 Program Coordinator can make the necessary arrangements. Every reasonable effort will be made to meet your request.

If you need sign language interpreter services or a foreign language translator, please contact our Office of Customer Engagement at 202-535-1000 or email LA@dchousing.org. Please allow at least 5 business days to make the necessary arrangements. You may also submit your request through our website at https://www.dchousing. org/vue/customer/language.aspxhttps://www.dchousing.org/vue/ customer/language.aspx

Jayaraman, the neighbors present are not considered abutting by ABRA as their property lines are not technically shared with the establishment, which is across the alley.

A motion from Commissioner David Sobelsohn (6B03) to reconsider the January ANC approval failed in a tie vote. In the end, ANC 6B voted unanimously to urge ABRA to give the neighbors’ complaints serious consideration and also to warn Harvest Tide it has thirty days to show they have satisfied their previous commitments made in the SA with the ANC.

Public Safety Report

The ANC heard a public-safety presentation from Captain Kevin Harding of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) First District. Harding said that due to community feedback, MPD First District Commander Tasha Bryant has suspended plans for operational changes at its Substation (500 E St. SE). The level of service, patrol coverage and procedure will not change at the substation, he said.

Rumors had circulated in the week prior that the First District Substation would be closed. However, the Captain clarified that the proposed change had been merely organizational to facilitate the better use of resources and personnel, noting that the First District was “down” about 110 officers. Harding reported that First District crime is down 3 percent versus a year ago. However, he said that property crime has increased largely due to a surge in car thefts. Still, Harding said, for the most part, year to date, the first district “isn’t doing bad.”

MPD Lieutenant Joy Lee reported on two programs to protect public school students, including both the violence interrupters and the Safe Passage program. Although Capitol Hill schools are included in the program, none of the seven Safe Passage “priority areas,” are currently on the Hill. Lieutenant Lee recommended lobbying Hillary Desir, Special Projects Manager at the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Education (DME).

Digging Down on G Street

The ANC again considered a Historic Preservation request for substantial renovations to a townhouse at 647 G St. SE for a new three-story rear addition, supporting the application by a vote of 7-2. The application was originally considered at the December 2022 meeting of ANC 6B, which voted to protest the application unless changes were made to the front windows and front stairway of the project. In their letter on the application, the Capitol Hill Restoration Society’s Historic (CHRS) Preservation Committee opposed these renovations, saying they are “not compatible with the Capitol Hill Historic District.”

There was also some concern directed by attendees at both the December and February meetings toward the work on the interior of the building, which includes plans to dig a sub-basement.

At the February meeting, where new window and stair configurations were presented, the owner said that he was surprised at the continuing concern around changes to the interior, which he said is not a historic consideration. He said the interior has been entirely replaced except for some original joists, which he promised to do his best to preserve. Concern seemed to be focused on the decision to dig down, the precedent set by approving such an application and the effect of excavation on the neighboring homes. At the meeting, commissioners said that while some people were describing the desire to dig down as an effort to “grab an extra buck,” it could just as well be described as an effort to house one more family. Others noted that concerns about excavation have to do with construction rather than historic preservation and called for the commission to focus on matters of historic preservation.

The next meeting of ANC 6B is 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Mar. 14. Find details on committee meetings and how to attend online at anc6b.org. u

K Street Underpass Art Projections

ANC 6C REPORT

by Sarah Payne

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6C met Jan. 11 via WebEx. Commissioners Christy Kwan (6C01), Leslie Merkle (6C02, secretary), Jay Adelstein (6C03), Mark Eckenwiler (6C04, chair), Joel Kelty (6C05, treasurer), Patricia Eguino (6C06) and Tony Goodman (6C07, vice chair) were all present at the meeting.

At their February meeting, commissioners discussed the virtual gallery art installation under the K Street underpass between First and Second Streets NE.

The exhibit features a variety of kinetic projections onto the walls of the underpass in bright colors incorporating transportation themes.

The Environment, Parks and Events (EPE) committee voted unanimously to construct a letter of support for the project, but community members and commissioners discussed the project’s potential unintended consequences. Neighbor Ian Cocroft was concerned about the potential impact the art installation could have on members of the unhoused community.

“I know that there are light installations underneath other bridges in the neighborhood, which could have a detrimental effect on that community,” Cocroft said.

The underpass, due to the narrow sidewalks, Commissioner Kelty clarified, does not permit encampments and emphasized that the installation should

not negatively impact houseless neighbors.

“It is an established no camping zone,” Kelty said. “There were signs up…and at this point there should be no impact on the unhoused community there from the installation.”

Commissioner Eguino echoed Cocroft. “[If] there are people sleeping under the bridge, though there are no tents, I think that should be taken into consideration,” Eguino said.

Commissioner Goodman raised a concern about the accessibility issues presented by individuals sleeping on sidewalks. “People with disabilities simply cannot get around that,” he said. “It’s not legal, and I don’t think it should be encouraged in any way, shape or form.”

The commission voted with one abstention to send a letter to the NoMa Business Improvement District (BID) and the DC Dept. of Transportation (DDOT) in support of the project.

Other Matters

The Commission:

• Opposed the r eplacement of an exterior staircase at 718 3rd St. NE due to insufficient plans and the applicants’ absence at the Transportation Public Space Committee’s (TPS) earlier meeting.

• Supported The Boiling Crab’s (400 H St NE) plan to create a trash room.

• Opposed a pilot program to decouple Emergency Medical Service (EMS) vehicles and fire trucks at Bridgepoint Hospital (223 7th St NE) due to neighbors’ concerns about access to their residences.

• Supported the EV Charging Legislation proposed by Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen (D), designed to increase the number of charging stations across the District.

• Authorized Commissioners Kwan and Eckenwiler to testify at the DC Council DDOT oversight hearings.

• Voted to protest a Class “C” hotel license for Sonesta DC Hotel LLC (20 Massachusetts Avenue NW) regarding concerns about noise. While the hotel was formerly within ANC 6C’s district, it now falls within the boundaries of ANC 6E which will take the lead negotiating a settlement agreement. If a settlement agreement is reached, the ANC 6C will withdraw its protest.

• Protested the Class “C” restaurant license at Ted’s Bulletin’s (1005 First Street NE) Class C license citing concerns about the blockage of bike lanes and difference in outdoor hours with those of nearby establishments.

• Supported a third story rear addition with a roof deck to an existing two-story flat at 523 Second St. NE.

• Supported an application before The Historic Preservation Review Board (HPRB) to make several revisions to the exterior at 601 Massachusetts Ave NE including the staircase.

ANC 6C will meet again Wed. March 8 at 7 p.m. vie WebEx. You can learn more about the commission and register to attend the meeting at (anc6c.org).

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

Potential designs of kinetic illuminations, pending DDOT approval, for the K Street underpass are discussed by ANC 6C commissioners at the February meeting.

Transportation Woes

ANC 6D REPORT

by Andrew Lightman

Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6D (ANC 6D) met on Feb. 13 via Zoom. Commissioners Bob Link (6DO1, vice chair), Gail Fast (6D03), Ashton Rohmer (6D05), Bruce Levine (6D06, secretary) and Fredrica (Rikki) Kramer (6D07, chair) were in attendance. Single Member District 6D04 remains vacant. Rhonda Hamilton (6D08) and Ronald Collins (6D02, treasurer) were absent.

“Idon’t think that there should be an expectation that everyone in Southwest has cheap and affordable and accessible parking,” stated Commissioner Rohmer.

Rohmer’s comment came in the context of an extended discussion among commissioners about a proposed letter to the DC Dept. of Transportation (DDOT) asking for information on the redesign of South Capitol and a change in N Street SW traffic patterns. It included mention of the impact the newly installed I Street SW Protected Bike Lanes (I Street PBL) have had on pickups and drop offs at both Westminster Presbyterian Church and Amidon-Bowen Elementary.

The I Street PBL blocks curbside access to the Westminster’s handicapped entrance ramp. Elderly and handicapped attendees arriving via Met -

ro Access, personal vehicles or For Hire Vehicles (FHV) must walk a half block from Makemie Place or Fourth Street SW. Those opting to get out next to the ramp must traverse the protected bike lane while their vehicle blocks eastbound traffic.

Similarly, the I Street PBL reduced the pickup drop-off (PUDO) space available to AmidonBowen parents to six spots. Parental traffic is likely to increase with the opening of the new early childhood center on the school’s campus next fall.

The fraught situation at Amidon-Bowen was cited as a concern both by Commissioner Fast and Chair Kramer. Fast, who is working with the parents, the school and DDOT, asked her colleagues

to remove the reference to the school to give her time gather input from Amidon-Bowen parents.

Commissioner Rohmer took issue with the entire letter.

“I appreciate the extreme danger that children might be facing,” said Commissioner Rohmer. “I’d be remiss if I didn’t call to folks’ attention that in years past, cyclists have also been in a lot of dangerous situations because of the lack of protected bike lanes,” she continued. DDOT has recorded only four pedestrian and five cyclist accidents on I Street SW since 2017. None resulted in fatalities or major injuries.

“It would have been nice to see in the letter some thanks for implementing the bike lane, and some reflection of some of the comments that we heard from the public on the fact that they do feel safer riding,” pressed Commissioner Rohmer.

Despite the Fast and Rohmer opposition, the final letter retained references to Amidon-Bowen Elementary. The bulk of the communication focused on the commission’s concerns relating to DDOT’s plan to redesign South Capitol, bringing it to grade and to allow northbound traffic to make

left turns on to N Street SW. The commission demanded the department brief them fully on both plans. Fast chose to abstain and Rohmer voted against the motion.

Again, with Rohmer in opposition and Fast abstaining, the commission voted to object to DDOT’s proposal to extend the northbound travel lane on Fourth Street SW by removing 300 feet or five additional parking spaces.

With Rohmer again in opposition, commissioners voted to send a third letter to DDOT requesting a meeting with DDOT and other stakeholders to review the implementation of the Traffic Operations and Parking Plan (TOPP) that governs traffic on stadium event days. In addition, they requested DDOT conduct a complete agency review of curbside parking in Buzzard Point.

One K Street SW

WC Smith project. D5 Zone. Design Review appli-

Pickup and drop off curbside access to Westminster Churches front entrance’s handicap ramp blocked by a protected bike lane. Photo: Andrew Lightman

The protected bike lane limits pickup and drop off spots at Amidon Bowen Elementary to six cars. There are no signs warning cyclists to slow down for the children as they approach the school. Photo: Andrew Lightman

One K Street as seen from South Capitol Street. Photo: WC Smith.

One K Street as seen from Half Street SW. Photo: WC Smith.

cation. 13-story residential building with 352 units and 179 below grade parking spots in 2.5 levels. 1-1 setback required because of height. No loading on South Capitol Street. Within 130 ft height. The development is a matter of right with no requirement for provisioning a ordable housing. However, it is subject to design review under the terms of the Capitol Gateway Overlay District.

Commissioner Fast questioned the project’s lack of a ordable housing and retail components. Neither is contemplated.

Commissioner Rohmer asked for details of the unit mix. The monies spent on underground parking, she suggested, would be better o contributed to a local land trust. Both she, Chair Kramer and Fast requested shadow studies citing the impact on the neighboring Skyline Hotels’ pool deck.

WC Smith’s attorney pushed back on both commissioners. The commission’s role, she opined, is limited to the building’s design. No vote was taken.

Miscellaneous Development Matters

The commission voted unanimously to request the DC Zoning Commission to reconsider the Planned Unit Developments for both 807 and 899 Maine Avenue. Both projects violate the tenets of the Southwest Small Area Plan and provide inadequate community bene ts, commissioners argued. There was an utter disregard for our concerns, stated Chair Kramer.

The commission also voted unanimously to ask the Zoning Commission to reconsider 1301

South Capitol Street. They objected to the project’s on-street PUDO and loading zone, which had been approved by DDOT’s Committee for Public Space (CPS). The commission argued it was not properly notified of the CPS meeting and therefore was unable to testify. Commissioners raised concerns that the on-street loading for the project’s first floor liquor store would lead to significant traffic tie-ups.

Other Matters

The commission also voted unanimously to send a letter to the DC Housing Authority (DHA) re-

questing an explanation of how its reduced and reformulated board would maintain resident representation. The letter also requested the DHA provide its plans for Greenleaf residents right of return, details on the unit sizes in site’s proposed redevelopment and current status of the complex’s 16,000 open work orders.

The commission reappointed Gottlieb Simon as the ANC 6D Senior Advisor/.

ANC 6D meets at 7 p.m. on the second Monday of every month. Their next meeting is March 13, 2023. For more information and links to join ANC meetings, visit www. anc6d.org. u

Talking Transportation

ANC 7D REPORT

by Sarah Payne

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 7D met Feb. 13 via WebEx. Commissioners Siraaj Hasan (7D01), Wendell Felder (7D03, chair), Milton Hardy (7D04), Ebony Payne (7D05), Marc Friend (7D06), Brett Astmann (7D07, treasurer), Brian Alcorn (7D08, vice chair) and Ashley Schapitl (7D09, secretary) were in attendance. Single Member Districts 7D02 and 7D10 remain vacant.

District Department of Transportation (DDOT) Director Everett Lott briefed the commission. Safety, Lott stated, remains the highest priority. “Everything that we do is based on safety and improving safety and increasing safety,” Lott said.

Lott emphasized the agency’s creating equitable mobility options across all eight wards. The department is implementing an eastern extension of H Street streetcar. “We hope to have the project completed by fiscal year 27,” Lott said. “So, we’re about four years away from final implementation and hopefully deliverance to the residents.”

Commissioners expressed their appreciation for the various traffic calming measures, bike lanes and other improvements. Then, they raised concerns.

“The biggest issue that I always hear is about the frequency of buses,” Commissioner Friend said.

The “pockets” across all eight wards that have limited access to transit service are a priority for DDOT, Lott responded. He promised the department will collaborate with WMATA to close these service gaps.

The new Traffic Safety Investigation (TSI) dashboard was created without any input from the commission, pointed out Commissioner Astmann. “I appreciate that it’s taking an algorithmic approach to looking at these, but my concern with it is traditionally [that] the ANC has had a voice into which TSI gets priorities, to unify and give visibility to some that they know are community problems,” he said.

Her constituents are concerned about the lack of Residential Parking Enforcement (RPP) near their homes, stated Commissioner Schapitl stated. “There are just a lot of out-of-state cars and cars without RPP parking for days and weeks at a time and there’s very minimal parking enforcement compared to Dupont Circle or other parts of downtown,” Schapitl pointed out.

DDOT plays a small role in enforcement of road and traffic violations. Lott advised. Parking enforcement is the responsibility of the Dept. of Public Works, while moving violations are the purview of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). “We are not in the enforcement business besides our automated traffic enforcement cameras. We’ll have to make sure that we do share this information with MPD,” he responded

Other Matters:

Commissioners established five committees: Housing, Economic Development and Econom-

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ic Justice, Transportation and Public Space, Grants and Community Outreach, Environment and Public Safety. Current 7D commissioners plan to solicit constituent participation.

The commission unanimously supported the DC State Board of Education Youth Safety Resolution presented by Ward 7 State Board of Education Representative Eboni-Rose Thompson.

The commission unanimously DDOT’s 19th Street and Potomac Ave Cycle Track Project, stipulating that it create minimal disruption to residents. The project will improve bicycle safety and promote walking, transit and biking.

ANC 7D next meets March 13 at 6:30 p.m. via WebEx.

Read his story at CapitolHillHistory.org

Daniel

CapitolHillHistory.org. Help preserve Capitol Hill history by becoming a volunteer.

Bike Land Redux

ANC 8F REPORT

by Sarah Payne

Advisory Neighborhood Commission 8F (ANC 8F) met on Feb. 28. Commissioners Nic Wilson (8FO1), Rick Murphree (8F02, treasurer), Brian Strege (8F03, secretary), Edward Daniels (8F04, chair) Clayton Rosenberg (8F05, vice chair), were in attendance.

In their February meeting, commissioners voted to conditionally support for the installation of a two-way Protected Bike Lane (PBL) along M Street SE between First and 11th Streets. This requires the removal of a westbound travel lane and the installation of several bus stops.

The changes are designedto increase bike and pedestrian safety.

Commissioners raised concerns about previous DDOT bike PBLs. In particular, they pointed to the half- nished PBL on New Jersey Avenue SE. The changes there left only two automobile travel lanes in place. Now, package delivery drivers routinely block tra c to unload parking in either the travel lanes or crosswalks.

“We’ve experienced a lot of projects that are not working, they create more hazards and create problems in the neighborhood,” Chair Daniels said of their conditional support. “We need a plan B.”

The commissioners also objected to the project’s timeline. It is slated to begin during the peak seasons of the Washington Nationals, DC United and the Yard’s Park’s summer concert series, all of which bring large numbers of people to the area.

The commission is committed to pedestrian and cyclist safety, stated

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

H. “Dan” Waterman, MD, opened his Capitol Hill medical practice in the late 1970’s after learning about the growing need for physicians on the Hill. Until his retirement 35 years later, Dr. Waterman not only provided health care to his patients but also formed strong friendships with many former patients that endure to this day. Read Dan Waterman’s oral history at

Photo by Deborah Hirtz Waterman

St. Joseph’s on Capitol Hill

Easter Holy Week Schedule

Palm Sunday

April 1st Saturday 5:30pmVigil Mass & Sunday, April 2nd Masses at 8:30am, 10:30am & noon

Holy Thursday

April 6th 7:30pm Mass with Incense

Good Friday

April 7th 12:10pm Liturgy of the Lord’s Passion

Adoration 1-3pm

Stations of the Cross at 3pm and 7pm

Holy Saturday

April 8th 7:30pm Mass with Incense

Easter Sunday, April 9th Masses

Outside Sunrise Service at 6:15am.

Church Masses at 8:30am, 10:30 am & Noon

Annual Easter Egg hunt

Follows the 10:30am Mass

SUPPORT LOCAL INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISM

Daniels, but remains wary of creating new problems in the process.

“We definitely support the project and want to make sure that all of us get around our city safely,” Daniels said. “But we don’t want to continue to create more issues than we’re solving.”

Other Matters

Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Captain Kevin Harding briefed the commission on crime. Car thefts, he said, continue to be an issue and encouraged residents to utilize any cameras or recording devices at their homes to help MPD nd o enders.

Commissioners and community members discussed the preliminary plans for the DC Smart Streets Lighting Project which will upgrade the District’s more than 72,000 streetlights. This modernization process will include converting streetlights to LED technology, adding wireless access for repairs, reducing greenhouse gas

emissions and energy consumption by more than 50 percent. Wireless access is aimed to reduce the time it takes to repair streetlights. Learn more at streetlights.dc.gov.

The commission supported a public space application to add sidewalk seating at Swizzler (1259 First St. SE) as well as the the National Cherry Blossom Festival Petal Palooza, which takes place on April 8 from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.

ANC 8F generally meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month. The next meeting is scheduled for March 28 at DC Dept. of Transportation Headquarters, 250 M Street SE. For more information, visit anc8f.org.

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

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DC Smart Streets Lighting Project which will upgrade the District’s more than 72,000 streetlights. Courtesy: ddot.dc.gov/page/streetlights

Bulletin Board

Celebrating Eastern Market for 150 Years Preservation Cafe

Historian, author, and tour guide Robert Pohl will present “Celebrating Eastern Market for 150 Years” at an inperson Preservation Café on Thursday, March 30, at 6:30 p.m., in the Eastern Market North Hall. Eastern Market has served as a center of the Capitol Hill neighborhood since it opened on Nov. 12, 1873. The brainchild of Joseph Carroll, it was designed by Adolph Cluss and expanded in 1908. During the early hours of April 30, 2007, fire critically damaged the Market. The day after the blaze, Mayor Adrian Fenty pledged to rebuild the damaged market and restore its historic architectural features. In contrast to most other markets in the United States, Eastern Market is still used for the purpose it was originally designed for. The Eastern Market building is designated as a National Historic Landmark. chrs.org.

For information on the dozen events planned in March and April to celebrate the 150th Anniversary, go to www.easternmarketmainstreet.org/blossoms-at-eastern-market

Pups in the Park

Pups in the Park is an opportunity to bring your dog to a Nationals game. You and your dog will both get to enjoy the game with other dogs and dog lovers from seats in a pet-friendly outfield reserved section. Participants must complete a waiver and bring it to the game in order to bring your dog into Nationals Park. The full information regarding Pups in the Park will be emailed to all special ticket event buyers 24 hours prior to the game. Human ticket price is $35; plus $10 per dog. This year’s games are Sunday, April, 16, 1:35 p.m. vs. Cleveland Guardians; Friday, May 19, 7:05 p.m. vs. Detroit Tigers; Wednesday, June 7, 7:05 p.m. vs. Arizona D-backs; Wednesday, Aug. 16, 7:05 p.m. vs. Boston Red Socks; Tuesday, Sept. 5, 7:05 p.m. vs. New York Mets; and Saturday, Sept. 23, 1:05 p.m. vs. Atlanta Braves. All proceeds from the dog ticket sales will be donated to the Humane Rescue Alliance. For more information or to purchase a group of 20 or more, contact Trevor Mann at 202-640-7069 or Trevor.Mann@ nationals.com.

Eastern Market’s 2008 reopening.

Photo: Courtesy of the Capitol Hill restoration Society

DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in the District.

DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in the District.

DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in the District.

DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in the District.

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DC Open Doors

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

Home Purchase Assistance Program (HPAP)

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

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DC4ME

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

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

COVID-19

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

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

COVID-19

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

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

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

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

COVID-19

COVID-19

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

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

NGA Announces New Artle Archive as Game Surpasses Six Million Plays

The popular National Gallery of Art daily guessing game, Artle, recently launched Artle Archive, a collection of more than 200 past Artle games. The Archive lets new players discover artists previously highlighted on Artle since its launch, while returning players can test their memories. You can now view the full list of more than 200 games, or filter by difficulty, artist’s nationality, and century. Using the filter feature, you can create your own custom Artle collection of multiple puzzles and share the link with others to challenge them to your unique Artle collection. The feature is a useful tool for educators, allowing them to share collections of games with students. The game starts with a lesser-known work and progresses to more recognizable works or includes hints. After four guesses, players can share their results and click through to the National Gallery’s website to learn more about the artist. The daily games vary by artists’ recognizability, genres, mediums, and time periods. Find Artle at nga.gov/artlearchive.

Capitol Hill Village Gala: A Night of Mystery

That’s the theme for the 2023 Capitol Hill Village Gala, but it’s no mystery that the Gala will be back in person at St. Mark’s on April 28 with a cast of characters who will be making the rounds to figure out “whodunit.” Teaming up with Labyrinth Games & Puzzles, the venue will be transformed into a ballroom surrounded by a series of rooms where clues will be hiding, challenging the amateur sleuths to find the culprit. Of course, there will be plenty of time and space for enjoying drink and hors d’oeuvres. Tickets are available for $175 each at bidpal.net/chvgala. The popular online auction will also be back, opening April 14 with an array of vacation homes, salon dinners, restaurant coupons, and more. This is a fundraising event, and CHV invites businesses and individuals to become sponsors. If interested, Contact Judy Berman at jberman@capitolhillvillage.org or Bruce Brennan at tjbrennanfam@aol.com.

Easter Sunrise Services

Easter Sunrise Service at Arlington Cemetery is on April 9. It begins at 6:15 a.m. with a musical prelude. Enter Arlington National Cemetery via Memorial Avenue and park at the cemetery’s parking garage, where parking is free from 5 to 9 a.m. (fees for parking begin at 9 a.m.). There is no walking to the amphitheater from the parking lot; a free shuttle service will transport all guests from the Arlington National Cemetery Welcome Center and transport them back. arlingtoncemetery.org.

Easter Sunrise Service at the Lincoln Memorial begins at 6:30 a.m. Over 6000 people gather annually at the Lincoln Memorial to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. national.cc/events/details/easter-sunrise-service.

Pulitzer Prize-winning Author Elizabeth Strout is the 2023 Eudora Welty Lecturer

On Thursday, March 23 at 7:30 p.m. the Folger Shakespeare Library’s O.B. Hardison Poetry Series presents the Eudora Welty Lecture with Pulitzer Prize-winning author Elizabeth Strout (Olive Kitteridge, My Name is Lucy Barton) at the National Press Club, 529 14th St. NW. Sponsored by the Eudora Welty Foundation, this annual lecture celebrates creative origins in the spirit of Welty’s treasured One Writer’s Beginnings. Ann Patchett (Bel Canto and The Dutch House), who presented the Lecture from Welty’s living room in Jackson, Mississippi in

Photo: Karen Stuck

Habitat Restoration Workdays at Kingman

On Saturdays, March 11 and 25, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., join the Anacostia Watershed Society and National Links Trust for a Habitat Restoration Workday. During this workday you will help AWS with invasive plant control and revegetation efforts along the riverside area of Kingman Island at Langston Golf Course. This is part of a natural resources management plan for the golf course in partnership with National Links Trust. By participating you will not only have the opportunity to learn about invasive plants and the ecology of the Anacostia River, you will also help AWS to improve the habitat for wildlife and the water quality of the Anacostia River. This event will likely involve lifting, bending, and walking. Participants should wear closed-toed shoes. Registration required at anacostiaws.org.

2022, will introduce Strout. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at folger.edu/poetry or 202-544-7077.

Christ Church St. Patrick’s Dinner and Fundraiser

This much-anticipated neighborhood event, on Saturday, March 18, 5 to 8 p.m., is Christ Church’s biggest fun and fund raiser each year. For more than 40 years they have celebrated St. Patrick’s with a feast of corned beef and cabbage. Christ Church is at 620 G St. SE. washington-parish.org.

SW Library Book Sale

The Friends of the SW Library are holding a book sale on Saturday, March 25, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, March 26, 1 to

3 p.m. A $5 bag book sale will be held on Sunday from 2 to 3 p.m. Most books are under $1. Cash, checks and Venmo accepted. All proceeds go to supplies and programs at the Southwest Library, 900 Wesley Pl. SW. dclibrary.org/southwest.

CHRS Guided Walking Tours

CHRS is offering three guided walking tours on Saturday, April 1 at 1:30 p.m.: Our Industrial Past; industrial and commercial sites, many of which have been repurposed; SE Capitol Hill Alleys, a trip back in time to explore the workaday world of both residential and commercial uses; and Notable People sites associated with historically significant people who have made Capitol Hill their home. Each tour is $15. Get tickets at chrs.org.

“Medicating Normal” Panel Discussion

Hill psychiatrist Joe Tarantolo will be moderating a panel discussion on the provocative, award winning film, “Medicating Normal”, that addresses the unholy alliance between psychiatry and the pharmaceutical industry. March 14 at 7 PM, Hill Center 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE

“Free for All” CHAL Art Show on the Hill

The Capitol Hill Art League holds its annual open call art show from March 28 to April 28 at the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop, 545 Seventh St. SE. The theme of this show is left up to the artists to explore and share their favorite themes, to work in

Fundraiser Viewing of “The High Ground” at Arena Stage

A Black man in an army uniform stands his ground atop Tulsa’s Stand-pipe Hill, bearing witness to the destruction and desecration of Tulsa’s Greenwood District--but other forces, both friendly and hostile, conspire to remove him. A play in conversation with Tulsa, Oklahoma’s 1921 race massacre, The High Ground is an unexpected love story that traverses space and time and reminds us of what it takes to re-emerge from the devastation. There is a fundraiser viewing of “The High Ground” on Friday, March 17, 7 p.m. $60 to $100. This event includes a preproduction reception and postproduction discussion with cast. Arena Stage is at 1101 Sixth St. SW. arenastage.org.

Volunteers restore habitat with the Anacostia Watershed Society at Langston Golf Course in March 2022.

new ways or experiment through their own personal process in any 2D and 3D media, including photography. Juror Priya Vadhyar, a visual artist whose work has been exhibited nationally and internationally, will provide remarks and present awards at the opening reception on April 1, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. caphillartleague.org.

Adult Chess Club at SW Library

All levels are welcome at the Southwest Library’s Chess Club which meets on Thursdays, 6 to 7 p.m. 900 Wesley Pl. SW. dclibrary.org/southwest.

Capitol Hill Home Photo Contest Deadline Extended

In anticipation of the 66th anniversary of the Mother’s Day House & Garden Tour, the Capitol Hill Restoration Society is holding a photo contest--The Capitol Hill Home. The revised submission deadline is March 12. Winning images will be awarded two complimentary tickets to the Tour and will be displayed on the CHRS website. View details and past contest winners at chrs.org/ photo-contest-2023/.

CHAL “Environmental Chaos” Show

The Capital Hill Art League show “Environmental Chaos” is at the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop, 545 Seventh St. SE, from March 4 to 25. The opening reception is on Saturday, March 4, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The show may also be viewed and purchased online at caphillartleague. org/environmentalchaols2023.

The Capitol Hill Art League is a welcoming organization open

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to artists of all levels that offers many opportunities to show and sell their work. They also host some open-call shows that don’t require membership. caphillartleague.org.

Union Station Maker’s Market

As part of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Union Station hosts the Union Station in Bloom Makers Market in the Main Hall. The market is from March 24 to 26, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. nomabid.org.

Hill Center’s 2023 Regional Juried Exhibition

This year’s show is juried by Nehemiah Dixon, Senior Director for Programs and Community Engagement at The Phillips Collection. Artists from the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia were invited to submit original hanging work, in any medium, to be consid-

ered. Response from the call was significant, with 170 artists submitting over 700 pieces. Dixon selected 113 pieces for the show. The gallery is both online at hillcenterdc.org/product-category/2023-regional-juried-exhibit/ and in-person. All art is available for purchase. The exhibition runs through April 16. Hill Center is at 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. hillcenterdc.org.

Celebrate Eastern Market’s 150th Anniversary

150 Cherry blossom branches will decorate the North Hall in an indoor, ongoing open to all experience. Pick up lunch from the market or our surrounding eateries, take a seat in the hall and enjoy the 150 year old space. Or visit any of our celebration events.

March 20: Opening Day

March 21: Puppet Show; for kids

March 23: Boogie Thursday, kids

March 24: DC Rawhides Country Dance;

March 26: Capitol Hill Arts Workshop Celebration.

March 30: Morning Puppet Show.

March 30: Capitol Hill Restoration Society Preservation Cafe talk

March 31: Boogie Thursday - kids

April 1-2: Capitol Art Book Fair

April 8: DC Rawhides Country Dance

April 9: Outside Eastern Market

For times of events and more info go to: easternmarketmainstreet.org/blossoms-at-eastern-market

“The Ethel” Supportive Apartment Building Opens

On Feb. 13, Mayor Bowser, former Maryland Lieutenant Governor Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, District leaders, and community members celebrated the opening of The Ethel, at 1900 C St. SE, a permanent supportive housing building

Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon and 5k

Registration is open for the Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon and 5k on March 18, 7:45 a.m. (5k) and 8 a.m. (half marathon). Current prices are $65 for the 5k and $119 for the half marathon – they may increase. The Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon and 5k features a twoday Health & Fitness Expo prior to the race, which all participants must visit to pick up their race packets. Free and open to the public, this expo features the latest in running technologies, fitness apparel, health & nutrition information and interactive displays. All runners must visit the expo to pick up their race number, gear bag and t-shirt. runrocknroll.com.

that combines housing, case management services, and amenities to help residents transition out of homelessness and move towards a self-sufficient and fulfilling life. A space designed for wellbeing, The Ethel offers fitness facilities, cooking classes, a clothing closet, hair salon, and on-site caseworkers who will connect residents with services from healthcare to professional development. The Ethel, near to the RFK Campus, honors Ethel Kennedy and her legacy as a humanitarian and civil rights activist. With its 100 permanent supportive housing units, the building acts as a sanctuary to residents exiting homelessness.

Two for the Trails Cleanup at Anacostia Park

Join Anacostia Riverkeeper on Saturday, March 25 (rain or shine), 9 a.m. to noon, for a cleanup at Anacostia Park, 1100 Good Hope Rd. SE, and help them stop trash from

entering the river. All supplies provided. Wear closedtoe shoes and clothing you can get dirty that will protect you from the brush. Register at anacostiariverkeeper.org. The Anacostia Riverkeeper’s Clean Waterways Earth Day Cleanup is on Saturday, April 22, 9 a.m. to noon, at Kenilworth Park.

DC Nightlife’s Cherry Night

On Friday, March 31, 7 to 11 p.m., enjoy Cherry Night, an exclusive, onenight-only cherry blossomthemed celebration of DC nightlife through music, fashion, and food. Selected venues throughout the DC area elevate the din -

The Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon and 5k course map.

Arboretum Eagle Update

According to experts at the National Arboretum and DC Department of Energy & Environment, the Arboretum’s nesting pair of bald eagles have built a new nest for the 2023 season. Mr. President and LOTUS built the new nest on Arboretum property in the woods between Fern Valley and the Langston Golf Course. Experts say this behavior of building a new nest is normal and happens often in the wild. The new nest is much bigger than the previous one, and is located closer to the Anacostia River, the eagles’ main food source. Mr. President and LOTUS performed bonding ights throughout the fall. Based on their current behavior in the nest, it is highly likely they have already laid an egg. While there won’t be a livestream camera in the nest this year to watch the eagles in action, they are often seen ying over the Arboretum. Due to the nest’s isolated location and large size, it is di cult to see the eagles when they are in the nest. All are reminded to mind the trails that are closed o between the Fern Valley parking lots and the Langston Golf Course and give the eagles their space. usna.usda.gov.

ner scene with custom springtime menus, blossom décor, and live entertainment. Sign up for the Festival’s emails for the latest updates on participating Cherry Night venues at nationalcherry-blossomfestival.org/ join-email-list.

Volunteer Event at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens

On March 25, 9 a.m. to noon, join Friends of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE, for their rst monthly volunteer event of

the year. Work alongside Park Rangers as the group completes projects that help maintain this beautiful oasis. Waders provided. Registration is required at kenaqgardens.org.

Petal Porch Registration Started

The National Cherry Blossom Festival invites DC residents to celebrate springtime by decorating their homes. Registration for Petal Porches is through March 20. Registration is free. All registered participants receive a downloadable sign

CELEBRATING EASTERN MARKET FOR 150 YEARS

PRESERVATION CAFE

THURSDAY, MARCH 30, 6:30 PM

Robert Pohl, local historian, author, and tour guide, will present the colorful history of this mainstay of the community in person in the Eastern Market North Hall. Free. Details:  chrs.org/eastern-market-150yrs-pc/

PHOTO CONTEST

THE CAPITOL HILL HOME

Entries due March 12 (deadline extended). View details and past contest winners at chrs.org/photo-contest-2023/

GUIDED WALKING TOURS

SATURDAY APRIL 1

Themes include Notable People, Capitol Hill Alleys, and Our Industrial Past. Tickets available through Eventbrite. Details: chrs.org/guided-walking-tours-april-2023/

Photo: Courtesy of USDA Agricultural Research Service

to print and include in your display. Once registered, you will be added to the o cial Petal Porches Map. Register before March 13 to get a free Petal Porch yard sign. No Porch? Feel free to decorate your yard, window, or something else visible from the street or sidewalk. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/event/petal-porch-registration.

Arboretum Native Plant Sale

On Saturday, March 25, 8:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m., get a head start on spring at one of the earliest plant sales in the area. The Friends of the National Arboretum (FONA) annual native plant sale includes vendors from across the mid-Atlantic selling spring ephemerals and many other choice perennials and woody plants. The sale is along Meadow Road between the National Arboretum’s Visitor Center and National Herb Garden— GPS 2400 R St. NE. fona.org.

On-Boarding DC Employees Free Clinic

On Tuesday, March 7, 10:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., the DC Bar Pro Bono Center and the law rm Covington & Burling LLP are sponsoring an in-person legal clinic to provide free brief advice on the basics of on-boarding employees to small businesses and nonpro ts with employees who regularly work in Washington, DC. To participate, nonpro ts must have 501(c)(3) status and small businesses must be incorporated. Advance registration is required. Contact sta attorney Christine Lopez Kulumani at 202-780-2732 or ckulumani@ dcbar.org. ◆

At the Movies

Two Diverse Winners: A Touching Irish Lass Seeks a Real Home and The Civil War in the Land of Free Blacks

by Mike Canning

The Quiet Girl

One of Oscar’s newly nominated Best International Feature of 2022, “The Quiet Girl,” made its debut at local theaters this month with, to me, a splendid chance to win the trophy. It has a new wrinkle, too, because—though “Irish”—it is placed in the international category because it is, indeed, in the original Irish tongue, a foreign language to the rest of the English-speaking world. It also showcases one of the best child performances in years (the film, which opened in late February, is now in local cinemas; it is rated “PG-13,” and runs 94 minutes).

That touching and resonant child is Cáit (played by Catherine Clinch), an unassuming, very reticent 9-year-old child in 1981 Ireland. She lives on a shabby farm within a dysfunctional family of six: her dull, repressed Mam (Kate Nic Chonaonaigh) , two unremarkable sisters, a

ARTS& DINING

baby, and, her father, the coarse and irresponsible Da (Michael Patric), who gets his smarts from the bottom of a beer bottle. Cáit is the mute observer of her family dynamic, internalizing the family’s petty missteps and quarrels and being a witness to the loveless marriage of her parents.

That dynamic reaches a breaking point when the wife stumbles into another witless pregnancy, and Da, knowing he cannot care for his growing brood, decides to relieve the family of another mouth to feed by farming out stolid Cáit to a distant country cousin, a move to which she succumbs without question. The new foster family, a childless older couple, lives miles away in another part of rural Ireland.

Cáit’s new home is better kept than her own, with a warmer feel. Most of that warmth comes from the wife, Eibhlin (touchingly played by Carrie Crowley), while the husband Séan (Andrew

Bennett), is a prototype taciturn farmer who speaks more easily to his cows than to any humans around. He stands apart from the girl, decent but distant, and, though their interactions are at first halting, they begin to slowly connect by doing chores around the place.

That is pretty much all there is to the plot of the movie, but one notes the forming of a relationship ever so slowly: through wearing rough boots in the slough, by absorbing recipes, through working the milking machines at night, by giving straight answers to tentative questions. It is a delicate weaving of domestic ties that little Cáit has never experienced.

Clinch is a wonder in the film, a revelation of restraint and sweetness. She is an all-seeing eye whom you see coming out of her delicate shell.

The film was made by Colm Bairéad who also wrote the screenplay from a novella by Claire Keegan called Foster. His direction is enhanced enormously by exquisite, concentrated photography by Kate McCullough and a subtle, suggestive score by Stephen Rennicks.

Sure, and it’s a wonder to behold.

Freedom’s Path

“Freedom’s Path” is a Civil War drama with a distinctive perspective. It focuses principally on a group of free, autonomous Black Americans living in the south on the fringes of the war (This film, now in select AMC and Regal theaters, runs 131 minutes and is not rated).

It opens, however, telling the tale (with nods to Stephen Crane’s “The Red Badge of Courage”) of an unseasoned, White Union soldier, William (Gerran Howell). In his very first foray into battle, he is terrified and decides to flee, covering his cowardice by stabbing himself in the thigh with his bayonet and pretending to be dead among the casualties.

Now roaming out on his own, crushed and

LEFT: (From left) Young Cáit (Catherine Clinch) is dropped off with her foster mother Eibhlim (Carrie Crowley) in “The Quiet Girl,” a new Irish-language picture. Photo courtesy of Breakout Pictures

Every Wednesday Capitol Hill Jazz Jam

3/3 - Elijah Balbed

3/4 - Renee Tannembaum

3/9 - Ebony and Ivory

3/10 - Dave Marley

3/11 - Stickman Band 3/16 - Dave Kline 3/17 - Kevin Cordt

3/18 - Maija Rejman

3/23 - Carly Harvey 3/24 - Women in Jazz 3/25 - Javier Nero Orchestra

3/30 - Legacy Groove Project

- Capital Jazz Experience

limping, he is discovered by a young, charismatic Black man, Kitch (RJ Cyler), who helps him nd aid within a community of Black farmers. Rather than capture or kill William, Kitch brings him to a small ranch where his extended family accepts William and cares for his wounds.

The two young men, initially suspicious of each other, slowly bond over farm work, chores, shing, chats on a porch, and dips in a lake. Living close to the Union border, Kitch and his family are already active in the Underground Railway, shepherding runaways across the line.

But their almost idyllic life ends when the nearby war impinges directly on their community, and a gang of nasty slave hunters, led by the sadistic Wes (Ewen McGregor), discovers them occupying their refuge.

Then the film turns harsh, even vicious, as the slave hunters capture and torture Kitch while William, who has run away, looks back to see his friend being gruesomely beaten and almost lynched before he decides he must intervene at the cost of his own life.

The lm’s writer and director, Brett Smith, devoted 12 years of his life to making “Freedom’s Path” telling the heretofore untold story of autonomous Black Freed-

men living in the deep-South during the Civil War. Smith realized early on, with his script in hand, that he would need “real money, a lot of money.”

In a searching essay on the production, he wrote “How on earth would I get it without an MBA or robbing a bank? ...I decided I would follow my intuition and use the two key resources at my disposal…an iMac computer and my limitless passion to tell this story.

“The ultimate trick is to never stop putting one foot in front of the other, lean on those you love, and take a moment every now and then to stop and look out on the beautiful vistas that lay behind you....You will have far more setbacks than you had hoped along your journey, but take it from someone who is 12 years into their climb…every step is worth it.”

A heartfelt dream nally makes it to the screen as a heartfelt story.

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

(From left) A Black youth Kitch (R.J. Cyler) saves a White Union soldier in “Freedom’s Path,” a recentlyreleased Civil War drama now in cinemas. Photo courtesy of Freedom’s Path Feature Film, LLC

PHOTO THEME IDEAS:

• Your dog playing in the park.

• Your kids marching in the July 4th parade on Barracks Row.

• Dining at your favorite restaurant.

• Shopping at your favorite local retailer.

• Beautiful shot of our Victorian homes, or gardens!

You get the gist. We want a snapshot of your life in our wonderful community!

TO SUBMIT:

Email: photos@hillrag.com

Include: Photo, Caption, Name & Phone Number.

DEADLINE: 3/15/23

Art and the City

March 2023 Must See Art Exhibitions!

by Phil Hutinet

The Athenaeum Gallery

Nicole Santiago

Through March 19. Artist Talk: March 19 at 2 p.m. www.nvfaa.org

Nicole Santiago, whose paintings are currently on view at Athenaeum Gallery in Alexandria, Virginia, took third place at the prestigious annual Bethesda Painting Awards in 2019. Her paintings portray family-scenes familiar enough to immediately draw-in the viewer and many of them feature cake in some form, either sliced or in their entirely. Santiago explains in her artist statement that the work is quite intimate and reveals that she “intends to construct something more universal that stretches be-

yond the limits of her own experiences, expanding into broader familiar themes. “The scenes of daily life which initially draw you in suddenly become interrupted by out-of-place behavior. For example, in “Second Time Around” a seemingly intoxicated woman sits in her undergarments with her legs apart in very public view of children and other guests. A young girl covers her mouth as if shocked by the adult’s behavior. Santiago’s paintings are exquisitely rendered and her clever visual storylines ask more questions then they answer. 201 Prince Street, Alexandria, VA. Hours: Thu-Sun: 12-4 pm. 703-548-0035

Glen Echo Partnership for the Arts Popcorn Gallery

Otis Street Arts Project

“Rending…Rendering” –Through March 26

www.otisstreetarts.org

Glen Echo Partnership for the Arts has extensive facilities on a walkable campus adjacent to the Potomac River just over the Maryland line from DC. At the Popcorn Gallery, one of several galleries at Glen Echo, ten artists from Mount Rainier, Maryland’s Otis Street Arts Project, including Ceci Cole McInturff, Chris Combs, Elizabeth Curren, Art Drauglis, David Mordini, Liz Lescault, Kirsty Little, Shelley Lowenstein, Lisa Rosenstein, Gloria Vasquez, present a wide-array of works centered around a common theme. The theme of the exhibition, as the artists describe it, is the “the duality of construction and deconstruction in new work.” The artists also ask, “Can a creation exist without some kind of destruction? Are ashes required to sprout?” Processes used to answer questions about death and rebirth include the use of shredding, weaving and welding materials such as pulp, plastic

trash, and palm husks. 7300 MacArthur Blvd. Glen Echo, MD. Hours: Saturdays & Sundays, 12-6 pm. 301-634-2222.

Pyramid Atlantic Art Center

“A Collaboration of Creativity: Print Work of David C. Driskell” –Through March 19

pyramidatlanticartcenter.org

Artist and professor Curlee Raven Holton has curated a series of 30 prints by the late David C. Driskell (1931-2020) in an exhibition titled “A Collaboration of Creativity: Print Work of David C. Driskell.” Driskell, a prominent artist and historian, is credited as being one of the most influential advocates and scholars in the field of African American art. His legacy lives on at his namesake institu-

David C. Driskell “Woman in Interior II..” Image courtesy Raven Editions & Pyramid Atlantic Art Center

Nicole Santiago “Second Time Around.” Image courtesy The Athenaeum Gallery & the artist

tion at the University of Maryland College Park where a rigorously programmed gallery, a vast repository of artwork and an exten sive archive offer both visitors and researchers an opportunity to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of African American art. For over 30 years, Holton has worked with renowned artists such as Faith Ringgold, Richard Anuszkiewicz, Chakaia Booker and Robert Beachum. In 2006, Holton founded his own print studio, Raven Editions. For his first project, Holton turned to friend and fellow artist David Driskell to create a series of prints. The first work in the series, “Woman in Interior” can be seen–and purchased–at Pyramid Atlantic. The curated collection of work includes colored serigraphs as well as black-and-white relief prints. 4318 Gallatin Street, Hyattsville MD, 20781. Hours: Wed-Thu: 10:00 am–8:00 pm. FriSun: 10:00 am-6:00 pm.| Mon-Tue: Closed. 301-608-9101.

Portico Gallery

“Unfettered” - Mixed Media assemblages by Liz Lescault and Lisa Rosenstein

Through March 18

Portico3807.com

In a joint exhibition curated by John Paradiso entitled “Unfettered” at Portico Gallery, the works of Liz Lescault and Lisa Rosenstein engage in a dialog of deconstruction and reconstruction by way of an artistic process which uses discarded materials such as plastic. These are then reassembled into forms which look uncannily familiar. Lescault explains it this way: “My current sculptural pieces are primarily constructed with extruded plastic filament,

sometimes combined with mixed media and found objects.” Similarly, Rosenstein describes her art as being, “about deconstruction and reconstruction. My process is one of breaking/tearing and repairing—weaving something new out of the fragments.” What is especially remarkable is that the artists create works which trick the senses into believing that these forms are “real” and naturally occurring. 3807 Rhode Island Ave, Brentwood, MD. Hours: Saturday 12-3 p.m. and by appointment. 202-487-8458.

East City Art’s Capital Art Book Fair

Saturday & Sunday, April 1 & 2 Saturday: noon-8 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Eastern Market’s North Hall artbookfair.eastcityart.com

The first edition of East City Art’s Capital Art Book Fair takes place at Eastern Market’s North Hall. The event is open to the public, free of charge. Over 30 exhibitors from Canada, Mexico and the US will display books as works of art, editions about art or artists, limited run books as well as DIY zines, graphic novels, prints and art magazines. The exhibitors include artists, independent publishers, small presses, illustrators and photographers. For this edition, East City Art has partnered with Capitol Hill Arts Workshop and Hill Center to co-locate programming during the fair. Programming includes panel discussions on art publishing, artist talks, exhibitions and free children’s art workshops.

Phil Hutinet is the founding publisher of East City Art, DC’s visual art journal of record. For more information visit www.eastcityart. com u

Lisa K. Rosenstein “Wild.” Image courtesy of Portico Gallery.

Chris Combs “Cluster.” Image courtesy of the artist.

the LITERARY HILL

A Compendium of Readers, Writers, Books, & Events

by Michelle LaFrance

Three Reads for Local History Buffs

Indigenous DC: Native People’s and the Nation’s Capital, by Elizabeth Rule

Forthcoming 2023. Dr. Elizabeth Rule begins her extensively researched and fascinating mapping of the indigenous history of DC with an important recognition: Today, DC and surrounding states are home to seven federally recognized Indigenous nations: the Chickahominy Indian Tribe, Chickahominy Indians Eastern Division, Monacan Indian Nation, Nansemond Indian Nation, Pamunkey Indian Tribe, Rappahannock Tribe, and the Upper Mattaponi Indian Tribe. As Indigenous DC makes clear, urban spaces are rich sites of Indigenous history and the District is Indian land.

Readers of this book will find a collection of stories and historical facts about Indigenous tribal leaders and politicians, artists and activists who have contributed extensively to the rich culture and traditions of DC neighborhoods, organizations, and civic sphere. Rule also treats memorials, monuments, and museums of significance to the region’s Indigenous peoples and the tradition of their political action, arts, and cultural celebrations.

Rule is also the author of the “Guide to Indigenous DC” an app that can be downloaded onto your cell phone (at no cost). The mobile app guides users on a walking tour of DC, highlighting tribal historic preservation efforts and other landmarks, to honor the presence of Indigenous peoples in a shared national history and raise awareness about their contributions in

the Nation’s Capital. Rule has worked on similar projects in Maryland and Baltimore.

Elizabeth Rule is an Assistant Professor at American University, who studies and teaches Critical Race, Gender, and Culture Studies. She is a member of the Chickasaw Nation.

More on Elizabeth Rule at: elizabethrule.com

To download the Indigenous DC mobile app: guidetoindigenouslands.com

Secret City DC: The Hidden History of Gay Washington,

by Jamie Kirchick

Exhaustively researched and engagingly written,

Kirchick’s Hidden History underlines a popular refrain at Pride Parades and other LGBTQ gatherings: “We’re here. We’re queer. And, we’re not going anywhere.”

Drawing from declassified materials, presidential libraries and other national archives, and Rainbow History Project oral history interviews, Kirchick explores how gay people could be “everywhere and nowhere” throughout US history. As Kirchick writes in his introduction, “fear of homosexuality, or even the mere accusation of it, destroyed careers, ended lives, and induced otherwise decent people to betray colleagues and friends.” Exposing the intolerance and persecution that kept many closet doors firmly closed, Kirchick’s history shows the political cast of characters and knotwork of laws, policies, and discourses that cast queerness as a threat to the very fabric of everyday morality in the US.

History buffs will appreciate the range and color of the political characters Kirchick treats. From Edgar J. Hoover, Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, to Roy Cohn, Chief Counsel, Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, to Ronald Reagan accused of involvement in a “homosexual ring” on the campaign trail, to Sumner Welles, the tragic diplomat and political author outed during the Franklin Roosevelt administration, to liberal gay activist and friend of Bill Clinton, David Mixner, readers will find tales of conspiracy-driven gossip campaigns, witch hunts, campaign spin, and vicious political theater, as well as accounts of WWII spies, McCarthy’s suturing of gayness to communism, to the sympathetic solidarity between embers of the Civil and Gay Rights movements, to excesses of the 70’s, the spread of HIV, and persistent

Elizabeth Rule

Jamie Kirchick

allegations of secret, salacious, and immoral behavior in order to score political points.

Secret History details the lengthy history that informs current and ongoing attempts to erase, closet, and control same sex sexual attraction. As it does so, Kirchick’s Secret History exposes an even more important truth—Gay history has always been and always will be US History.

More at James Kirchick’s website: jameskirchick.com

Wicked Capitol Hill: An Unruly History of Behaving Badly,

by Robert S. Pohl

Deliciously titillating, unsavory, raunchy, sensational, outrageous— just a few descriptions of the understories collected in this new release. Fans of Walking Shtick tour

guide and DC historian Robert S. Pohl’s previous works (check out Urban Legends and Historic Lore of Washington DC and 101 Hours in a Zeppelin, if you have not already) will nd themselves deliciously devouring the pages of his new book exposing the seedy historical underbellies of Capitol Hill and SE neighborhoods. Explore the raucous docks and taverns of the early Navy Yard, prowl the gritty bars of 8th street in earlier eras, and stand at the gravesite of a renowned madam in Historic Congressional Cemetery. From family scandals and the tawdry a airs of political gures, to backroom political shenanigans, local murders and other sensational misdeeds, the tales collected in Wicked Capitol Hill are sure to capture a pleasingly dark public imagination.

For more on historical DC, follow Robert Pohl on: thehillishome.com

What are We Reading?

Solid State reports their top ve sales as:

1) Spare, Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex; 2) Tomorrow & Tomorrow & Tomorrow: A Novel, Gabrielle Zevin; 3) Lessons in Chemistry, Bonnie Garmus; 4) How to Sell A Haunted House, Grady Hendrix; and 5) Our Missing Hearts, Celeste Ng. East City Bookshop reports that their top ve sales of the last month have been: 1) Under the Whispering Door, by TJ Klune; 2) The House in the Cerulean Sea, by TJ Klune; 3) Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, by Gabrielle Zevin; 4) Lessons in Chemistry, by Bonnie Garmus; and 5) First, Become Ashes, by K.M. Szpara.

I am enjoying Ross Gay’s Book of Delights: Essays, Tricia Hersey’s Rest is Resistance: A Manifesto and R. F. Kuang’s Babel, Or the Necessity of Violence: An Arcane History of the Oxford Translators’ Revolution—all marvelous reads.

Michelle LaFrance is Associate Professor of English at George Mason University. She teaches creative non ction, life writing, and civic writing at the Hill Center. In her free time, she can be found reading, writing, and hiking the region’s forests with two mischievous four-leggeds. ◆

Poetic Hill

Dwayne Lawson-Brown

by Sandra Beasley

Dwayne Lawson-Brown, aka the Crochet Kingpin, is co-host of Spit Dat, the longest running open mic in Washington, D.C. Born and raised in Washington, D.C., they have performed and hosted at The Kennedy Center, Woolly Mammoth Theater, Keegan Theater, The Strathmore, the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, and others. In the poem below, Lawson-Brown pays tribute to their son, who, over the course of the poem, grows older. "We often mourn youth, but when writing this poem, I had a chance to re ect on the gift of 'this' time. I get to be an adult with a growing son. I get to enjoy who he has become and who he is becoming. There is a simple joy in being present for the present," they say.

This poem appears in Breaking the Blank, co-authored with Rebecca Bishophall, published by Day Eight in November 2022.

For the Growing Boy

When you were younger

You would sleep on my chest

I’d watch you rise and fall with each exhale

A reason for breathing

As you grew

You’d reach for my controller

Become player 2

Dream of making your own games

I pray we never outgrow our time

You grip the guitar neck

Like the world owes you your shot

It does

I will block anyone tending your goals

A father is proud of his son today Everyday

E to A

Failure and success

You are my light

You are your own light

Keep shining.

Sandra Beasley is the curator of “Poetic Hill,” a resident of Southwest, and the author of four poetry collections. If you live in D.C. and you’re interested in being featured, you can reach her at sandrabeasley@ earthlink.net for questions and submissions (1-5 poems).

Photo: Donnie Riggs Photography

Robert S. Pohl

Spring Equinox A Time for New Beginnings

by Pattie Cinelli

March 20th at 5:24 p.m. marks the spring equinox this year. The length of the day and night is almost equal wherever you are in the world, with the sun shining

directly on the equator. It marks the beginning of spring in the northern Hemisphere. It signifies a time of balance and wholeness. The word ‘equinox’ comes from the Latin ‘aequus’ and ‘nox’ which means equal and night respectively. Both the spring and fall equinoxes occur in between the summer and winter solstices, marking the two points in the year when the earth’s axis is tilted neither towards nor away from the sun.

The spring or vernal equinox also represents a time of the year when we begin to experience more life force creative energy. The return of light presents us with an opportunity to take time to release our fears and create new intentions for ourselves.

Essentially, our hours of daylight– the period of time each day between sunrise and sunset– have been growing slightly longer each day since the winter solstice in December. The spring

equinox marks the turning point when daylight begins to win out over darkness.

Spring Cleaning

One way we can welcome the new season and new possibilities is by doing spring cleaning–purging clutter, dusting nooks and crannies, and cleaning places that we don’t normally clean such as drawers, garages and sheds. Psychologists said that spring cleaning can improve your mood, reduce stress and increase creativity. By cleaning physical spaces, we can also organize our mental space in a way that produces positive and clear thinking.

Spring cleaning and space clearing paves the way for turning over a new leaf. Too much clutter can feel disorganized or chaotic, and it can create feelings of being physically and/or emotionally heavy. Clearing out clothes, shelves and drawers can help you re-establish the life-force flow, and recharge and rebalance energy within your space.

Detoxing

While physically freeing up space in your environment is important for creating balance, the spring equinox is also a perfect time to clear out the sludge that has clogged up your inner workings during the winter just like you change the oil

Spring at Congressional Cemetery with Marcello. Photo: Pattie Cinelli

PATTIE CINELLI

HEALTH & FITNESS MASTER PLAN

in a car. For the past few years I’ve been doing a detox diet for renewal. “Almost everyone needs to detox and rest their body from time to time,” said Mary Phelps, a certied integrative nutritionist. “A kid in college who eats junk as well as an 80-year-old who has been taking medications for many years can bene t from detoxing.”

There’s a plethora of choices when it comes to detox programs. I’ve done a 10-day plan by Elson Haas, MD who book is The Detox Diet. I also have done a threeday juice cleanse and a week-long ayurvedic cleanse.

The spring equinox signi es a time to clear the space in our emotional and spiritual home as well. We get intentional about the seeds and dreams we want to create in life. We shed winter’s layers of being that no longer serve us. Our authentic nature is ready for a reset.

How to Celebrate Spring Equinox

It starts with setting an intention. Maybe you’d like to attract abundance, health or spiritual growth into the new season.

Create an altar or space dedicated to your intention using shells, statues, colors (green for healing, rice is a symbol of abundance) and good fortune plants and owers and/ or crystals. Light a candle. When we acknowledge and embrace with the sun, moon and earth’s cycle, we naturally cultivate emotional balance, spiritual recalibration, physical awakening and mental clarity.

Connect with nature. Get outside and look around. Try walking barefoot on the earth. Plant seeds. Listen to the birds sing. Journal your dreams. Nourish with healing foods. Shed limiting ways of being. Be playful.

Important in History

Spring Equinox is honored around the world. In shamanic and other cultures where attunement to nature is ingrained in the rhythm of day-to-day life, the equinox is a natural progression of mother earth bringing balance to our world. Without darkness there would be no light.

In Judeo-Christian traditions, spring cleaning dates back to the liberation of Israelites from Egypt, now celebrated as the holiday of Passover. To prepare for Passover, the Torah commands not a crumb of leaven (yeast) in the house. As a result one would thoroughly clean the entire house.

In Buddhist culture spring cleaning also plays a major role in ancient Buddhist puri cation rituals. It also can be traced back 3,000 years ago in Persian culture. It was believed that sweeping up dust and removing clutter would prevent illfortune in the upcoming year.

In yogic tradition it is seen as a day when one has the best possibility of transcending the limitations and compulsions of one’s physical longings. Masculine and feminine are said to be on an even keel that day.

If you are feeling adventurous on March 20th this year, you may want to test a folklore made popular in a 1945 Life magazine article. Legend says that you can stand an egg on its end during the spring equinox. During this shift to more light, have some fun. After all, it’s spring.

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

Give a fecal! No seriously, always bring us a stool sample at your pet’s annual checkup or when your pet is having intestinal issues. You may not be pleased having to raid the litter box for a sample, or for not immediately tossing your dog’s daily present, but pinch your nose and do it. Parasites are ubiquitous in the environment, but we check stool samples for several reasons.

What goes in must (or should) come out.

Our canine and feline friends may not be very discerning in what they ingest. Examining a stool sample can show if we eat woodchips, rocks, or in the case of cats, string or plastics. Dogs that live with cats frequently eat cat litter. By examining stool at home and at the veterinarian, we can help assess inappropriate ingestion and prevent intestinal blockage or damage.

Parasites

A dog’s nose is forever close to the ground; it’s part of how they sense and communicate with the world around them. Sni ng poop on their daily walks is normal to them, albeit a bit gross to us. Sometimes they ingest feces outside, but more frequently they get it on their feet, then clean themselves o with their tongues later. This is the perfect set-up to ingests eggs of intestinal parasites.

Parasites are everywhere. In dogs the most common are those which inhabit the intestines and are spread through eggs in feces. The eggs enter the intestines and they turn into adults where they continue the lifecycle once again. These parasites can cause a wide range of clinical signs, from nothing, to diarrhea, vomiting, blood in stool,

P OO P!

The District Vet

by Dan Teich, DVM

weight loss, and in puppies/kittens and the inrm, possibly death.

Often dogs and cats will be asymptomatic carriers, meaning that they do not show any outward signs of hosting a parasite. While not being ill right now, the infestation could worsen and cause problems or infect others in the future!

The most common parasites in dogs are roundworms, whipworms, giardia, coccidia, and tapeworms. Cats frequently host roundworms, tapeworms, coccidia, and giardia as well. Tapeworms are easy to spot - they look like little grains of rice on the stool or anus. Adult round worms resemble thin pasta, but the other parasites, and their eggs, are all microscopic.

Humans are not immune

Many parasites that infest dogs and cats can be transmitted to people. Routine parasite screening, especially in households with children, are an integral part of family health and safety.

imals.

Indoor cats

A frequent question is whether an indoor cat needs a stool screening. Absolutely. Remember that cats may eat mice and bugs, all which carry parasites. Certain food brands may also harbor parasites, based upon how the diet is prepared. Even commercial food may sometimes harbor unwanted pests.

Any ill pet

Stool can tell stories. The color and consistency may indicate certain disease processed. The presence of blood is important to assess. And even if you don’t think that the pet’s illness is related to a parasite, you’d be surprised how often it is!

So when your dog or cat has their annual wellness visit or is coming in for a not-so-well visit, please bring a stool sample. You can bring it in a Ti any box, cream cheese tub, triple-bagged with a biohazard sticker, or whatever vessel your heart desires, but please be sure it is labeled well.

tegral part of family health and safety. pose of it for you.

Mites

Dogs and cats are usually excellent at selfgrooming. And of course, when grooming, they swallow most of what they remove. Mites, such as scabies and demodex, parasites of the skin, may be swallowed and present in fecal samples. Often these mites may not be detected through skin scrapings/assessments, but can be found in the stool. A stool sample is important to check in itchy an-

Poop has a story to tell, and if we don’t need the sample, we are happy to dis-

Dan Teich, DVM is Medical Director at District Veterinary Hospital Eastern

S chool N otes

by Susan Braun Johnson

practiced this concept by sharing compliments with each other. The children also studied sight words including as, be, this, have, and from, practicing saying each word out loud, identifying the letters/sounds shown in each word. They also practiced making sentences using the words and played a “Matching/Finding Their Word” game.

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

Miner

Miner Elementary partnered with Atlas Brew Works to host a fundraiser for the Miner Parent Teacher Organization on Feb 17. Families, teachers, staff, administrators, community members, and even our Ward 7 State Board of Education Representative had a great time socializing outside of the school. Cheers to a great fundraiser!

Miner Elementary, 601 15th St NE; minerelementary.org.

Payne

February was a busy month at Payne! Students worked hard on research papers and dioramas about a variety of animals. Presentations for Black History Month were conducted so stu-

Maury Elementary

Second grade students in Ms. Kaylee Mina’s music class are learning correct notation as part of their rhythm project. White boards allow them to easily practice the squiggly symbol for a quarter rest until they get it just right!

Maury ES, 1250 Constitution Ave. NE; mauryelementary.com.

Northeast Stars

Northeast Stars Montessori Preschool students are learning about kindness in a 30 Days of Kindness curriculum series. They learned about compliments and that a compliment is when you say something nice to or about another person. They

Maury Elementary

Miner Elementary

dents could share what they learned about several entrepreneurs, scientists, mathematicians, and historic icons. For World Thinking Day, the Payne Girl Scout Troop studied the history, culture, and current events in Ukraine. The girls also learned some words in Ukrainian to write letters to their new Ukrainian Pen Pals. Payne, 1445 C St SE, www.paynedc.org

Waterfront Academy

Waterfront Academy students celebrated Candlemas in early February at St. Dominic Church. On Candlemas, many Christians (especially Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholics and mainline Protestants) take candles to their local churches where they are blessed and then used for the rest of the year. Candlemas is also known as the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus Christ.

Waterfront Academy, 222 M St. SW, info@ waterfrontacademy.org

Van Ness

Otters Make Great Neighbors! The Capitol Riverfront Business Improvement District honored Van Ness Elementary School with its Cornerstone Award. The award, accepted by

Principal Maquita Alexander, is given every five years to an important anchor for the neighborhood.

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

Templeton Academy

Templeton students visited congress where they pitched their policy recommendations for addressing the acidification of oceans to Congresswoman Bonamici and her science legislative team.

Congresswoman Bonamici’s team was impressed by the depth of understanding Templeton students demonstrated regarding the issue of ocean acidification and the chemistry entailed.

Templeton Academy, 406 7th St NW; www. templetonacademy.org

Friends Community School

Science got tasty for seventh-graders at Friends Community School as they constructed 3D models of DNA using the different colors of

gumdrops to represent nucleotide bases (A, T, G, and C).They used genetic code to determine the gene sequence for different physical characteristics and finished by writing a DNA sequence based on their own physical traits.

Friends Community school, 5901 Westchester Park Drive, College Park, MD; www.friendscommunityschool.org.

Eastern Senior High

On January 25, Eastern Senior HS participated in the Cathedral Choral Society’s High School Choir Festival. Students from schools in the DC region came together for a day of workshops, rehearsals and school performances. The event culminated in a magnificent regional combined performance.

Eastern Senior HS, 1700 East Capitol St. NE, easternhighschooldcps. org

Payne

Templeton Academy

Waterfront Academy Candlemas

Friends Community School

Kids & Family

Second Saturday Sungazing

Blossom Kite Festival

On Saturday, March 25, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., (rain date, March 26), discover the joy of kite- ying on the Washington Monument grounds. The Blossom Kite Festival is a long-standing DC tradition encouraging attendees of all ages to y kites among the cherry blossom trees. The iconic outdoor event is fun, free, and open to the public. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org.

On the Second Saturday of every month, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., become an astronomer and observe the Sun safely with a ltered telescope. Join museum sta outside the Air and Space Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center entrance to view a variety of features on the Sun. Knowledgeable sta will be there to answer questions and guide observing. If clouds are blocking the view of the sky, nd them inside the Museum’s Space Hangar to see images of the Sun taken by a satellite. Free but parking is $15. airandspace.si.edu.

Sleeping Beauty at Glen Echo

A funny frog storyteller ribbits the tale of offended fairies, silly royalty, and magic spells.

On March 5 to April 9, relive this classic fairy tale in this lovely Legacy rod-puppet show. The show runs Thursdays and Fridays at 10:30 a.m.; Saturdays and Sundays, 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. It is recommended for ages four, up. $15; free for under age two. Sleeping Beauty is at Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, MD. Upcoming shows are Jack and the Beanstalk, April 20 to May 21; Guest ArtistsDino Rock, June 1 to July 9; Beauty and the Beast, July 20 to Aug. 20; Magic Mirror, Aug. 31 to Sept. 17. thepuppetco.org.

River Island | Isla de Ríos at the KC

Created in collaboration with award-winning author and illustrator Edwin Fontánez, from April 4 to 16, River Island, open at 10 a.m., is an immersive play space for children—featuring books, videos, and activities about nature and the environment—inspired by the culture of the Taínos, the indigenous inhabitants of Puerto Rico. River Island is located at PT109 at THE REACH. Free admission. kennedycenter.org.

At the RiverRun Fun Festival on Saturday, April 8, starting at 11 a.m., families can enjoy playing in the River Island/Isla de Riós room, learning about conservation from the Potomac Riverkeeper Network, and watching artists paint outdoors at this special free event. kennedycenter.org.

Photo: Ron Engle

Illustration by Edwin Fontánez from Once On This Beautiful Is-land © Exit Studio

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Cherry Blossom Kids Celebration

Join Capitol Hill Arts Workshop on Sunday, March 26 for a celebration of cherry blossoms and Eastern Market’s 150th anniversary with a day of arts activities and performances in Eastern Market’s North Hall. CHAW’s Suzuki studio and dancers from CHAW’s youth arts program will perform, artist Will Fleischell will hold a plein air workshop and a family friendly arts and crafts table with CHAW teaching artists will be open throughout the day. (Times TBD) Visit www.chaw.org for details.

Watch Asian Elephant Nhi Linh Play

On Jan. 16, the National Zoo’s nine-year-old Asian elephant got a kick out of her enrichment toy as she and her mother, Trong Nhi, played in the Elephant Community Center. In the wild, Asian elephants use their bodies to fell trees and their trunks to move logs. Keepers give the elephants enrichment to encourage these natural behaviors. Toys like this help them keep physically fit and mentally sharp; they also encour-

Family Happy Hour with King Bullfrog

On Friday, March 17, 5 to 7 p.m., bring the family out to enjoy an evening filled with live music perfect for all ages. This concert is indoors on the second floor of the Hill Center--if the weather is unseasonably warm, they may move the event outdoors. This happy hour is perfect for little ones to run, dance, laugh, and play to the beat of their favorite songs. Featuring Mr. Jeremiah and Mr. Steve—both Capitol Hill-based dads and music teachers—the duo’s roots-and-blues tunes are carefully tailored to get children dancing while delighting grownups. King Bullfrog is the hottest sensation in family music in the DC area. $10 per child two and older; $5 per grownup. Beer, wine and pizza for purchase. Hill Center is at 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. Tickets at hillcenterdc.org.

Cenicienta: A Bilingual Cinderella Story at the KC

Ten-year-old Belinda loves to tell stories, but when she’s in the basement preparing for a party upstairs, she’ll have to get creative. Using everyday objects like a teapot and doily, Belinda recreates the classic tale of Cinderella. Glass Half Full Theatre from Austin, Texas, presents its award-winning “story within a story” using puppetry, Spanish, and English. As Belinda confronts her stepmother and stepsisters, she’ll learn to embrace her love of poetry and stand up for herself. This captivating Cinderella for all ages tackles cultural heritage, family, and the power of language. $20. Cenicienta: A Bilingual Cinderella Story is at the Kennedy Center on Saturday, April 1, at 11 a.m., 1:30 and 5 p.m.; and Sunday, April 2, at 1:30 and 4 p.m. It is most enjoyed by ages five, up. kennedy-center.org.

age them to socialize and play. Watch Asian Elephant Nhi Linh Play at nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/news/ watch-asian-elephant-nhi-linh-play.

New School

Capitol Hill Christian Academy (CHCA), is a new classical, K-12, full-time school that plans to launch classes in Fall 2023. CHCA exists to partner with families and churches to provide a Christ-centered education to cultivate a lifelong curiosity, and a love of learning and service, in pursuit of what is true, good, and beautiful. The location in the heart of the Capitol Hill neighborhood, near Eastern Market, will be announced soon.

Saturday Morning Live!

at the National Fun takes center stage at the National Theatre for Saturday Morning Live. Kids are invited to the Helen Hayes Gallery space on select Satur-

day mornings at 9:30 and 11 a.m. for entertainment of all sorts, from interactive performances, puppets, dance, and music. On March 11, see We Can Do It! by Bright Star Theatre. Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the signing of the 19th Amendment with We Can Do It: American Women in History. A fascinating adventure featuring some of the world’s most remarkable female pioneers, audiences will discover trailblazers like Amelia Earhart, Sacajawea, Susan B. Anthony, and more. On April 1, see Callaloo Kids by Canady Foundation for the Arts Repertory Theatre. Join the CFA Repertory Theatre as they adventure to the Gullah Sea Islands in search of a long-lost patch for Zoe’s grandmother’s quilt. Celebrating African-Diaspora folklore, this performance includes puppetry, drumming, and storytelling for the entire family to enjoy. Best enjoyed by ages three to six, but anyone is welcome to join in the fun. Tickets

Photo: Chris Owen

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are free, but register in advance. Walk-up tickets are subject to availability. Masks are optional, but highly recommended. The National Theatre is at 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. nationaltheatre.org/ saturday-morning-live.

This Is the Rope: A Story from the Great Migration

During the time of the Great Migration, millions of African American families relocated from the South, seeking better opportunities. The story of one family’s journey north during the Great Migration starts with a little girl in South Carolina who finds a rope under a tree one summer. She has no idea the rope will become part of her family’s history, but for three generations, that rope is passed down. This world premiere NSO Family Concert features Education Artist-in-Residence Jacqueline Woodson reading This Is the Rope onstage, along with brand-new music played by the National Symphony Orchestra and conducted by Kyle Dickson. This Is the Rope: A Story from the Great Migration is in the Kennedy Center Concert Hall on Sunday, April 2 at 2 and 4 p.m. Tickets are $18 to $20.

Recommend for ages seven, up. kennedycenter.org.

The Atlas Family Fun Day

On Saturday, March 11, 10 a.m. to noon, the Atlas lobby will be filled with music, performances, an instrument petting zoo, a campy and glamorous story time for kids and kids at heart (TARA HOOT Darlings, You’re Gorgeous!) and a creation station offering crafts and coloring for kids and their grown-up friends. The Atlas Cafe will be open for treats purchase. All activities are family-friendly, age-appropriate, and free. Atlas Performing Arts Center is at 1333 H St. NE. atlasarts.org.

Spark!Lab at the American History Museum

Spark!Lab is where museum visitors become inventors. The Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation invites children between the ages of six and twelve to create, collaborate, explore, test, experiment and invent. Activities for children and families incorporate traditional science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) with art, history and creativity. Spark!Lab, on the first floor (west wing) of the museum, is

Kids Run the Bases at Nat’s Park

Kids ages four to twelve can run the bases after every Sunday Washington Nationals day game. This season’s dates are April 2, 16 and 30; May 14 and 21; June 4 and 18; July 9 and 23; Aug. 13; and Sept. 3, 10 and 14. An adult must accompany runners to the field. Starting at first base, kids will be directed to run around the bases as the adults continue along the warning track and meet the runners near home plate. Once the baseball game has ended, kids and parents/guardians can line-up at the end of the seventh inning. Participants must exit the ballpark through the Right Field Gate. The line forms outside of the park on the sidewalk along First St. washington.nationals.mlb.com.

Wake Up, Brother Bear at Imagination Stage

Sister Bear and Brother Bear are back from hibernation to take little ones on an interactive journey through the seasons. Meet a curious butterfly, play in a rushing waterfall, and catch lightning bugs as the bears frolic through the forest in an unforgettable theatre experience. Children sit in a circle on the stage, with their adults sitting behind them. Wake Up, Brother Bear is at Imagination Stage, 4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda, MD, from March 11 to April 8. It is best for ages one to five. Observation seats are for audience members who prefer to sit away from the action and watch the show from their theatre seats. These seats are comfortable and distanced, and people sitting in them do not participate in the interactive aspects of the show. $16.50 per ticket. imaginationstage.org.

Photo: Courtesy of the Washington Nationals

Out of this World with the Science Guys of Baltimore

On Wednesday, March 22 and Thursday, March 23, 10:15 and 11:30 a.m. at the Discovery Theater, send your kids to space with the Science Guys. Using a huge Hoberman sphere, we’ll create the earth’s rotation as it spins through space, simulate how day and night occur, learn how long a year is, and demonstrate what causes the seasons. This show is all about the Earth’s place in the universe, but they’ll also blast off rockets to learn about the vacuum of space and how astronauts live in the international space station. $8 for adults; $7 for kids; $3 for kids un-der two. Tickets on sale now. It is recommended for ages seven to elev-en. Discovery Theater’s Ripley Center is at 1100 Jefferson Dr. SW (on the National Mall). discoverytheater.org.

Explore Exhibition Hall at the Capitol

Experience the Capitol’s interactive exhibits dedicated to telling the story of Congress and the US Capitol. Learn how citizens interacted with Members of Congress in the development of 12 major pieces of legislation. Participate in handson learning activities in the Democracy Lab. Try your hand at passing legislation. See architectural models showing how the US Capitol has changed over time and view the table from President Lincoln’s second inauguration. See the many beautiful rooms of the Capitol on a virtual tour. Learn about the work of the first Congress in their special exhibit “A Republic if You Can Keep It”. Enter behind the Statue of Freedom on the lower level. Exhibition Hall was designed with accessibility in mind. The Capitol Visitor Center is open to the public from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Visitor Center is closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, and Inauguration Day. visitthecapitol.gov.

open from Wednesday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. americanhistory. si.edu.

Culture Queen Kids Hour at the ACM

On the first Saturday of each month through June, 11 a.m. to noon, Grammy-nominated children’s entertainer, Culture Queen, holds court with live performances, interactive community building, stories, crafts, movement, and more. Kids’ Hour features programs that

encourage diversity, community and self-love. April 1—Create-aCommunity–Participants will learn about community-building activities and design their own 2-D communities. May 6_Manners Matters—Participants will explore etiquette traditions from around the world and learn how to carry themselves royally in various environments. June 3—Create-a-Holiday—Participants will create holidays celebrating the people, mile-stones, and things that matter most to them. The Smithso-

Two Big Family-friendly Festivals on the Waterfront

Bloomaroo is at the Wharf is on Saturday, April 1, 2 to 9 p.m. Bloomaroo is a spring extravaganza featuring a full day of cherry-blossom themed art, music, fireworks, and family-friendly fun along the waterfront. Enjoy beer gardens on District pier, s’mores at their firepit, live music and fireworks finale. wharfdc.com.

Petalpalooza at Capitol Riverfront at the Yards is on Saturday, April 8, 1 to 9 p.m. It brings art, music, and play to multiple outdoor stages, interactive art installations through the Petalpalooza Art Walk, a cashless beverage garden, family-friendly hands-on activities, roaming DC sports mascots and entertainers, fireworks and more. Fireworks are also visible from Anacostia Park. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org.

Photo: Courtesy of Architect of the Capitol

Courtesy of the National Park Service

nian’s Anacostia Community Museum is at 1901 Fort Pl. SE. Free registration at anacostia.si.edu.

Infant and Child CPR at Hill Center

There is a two-hour Infant and Child CPR class at the Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, on the third Sunday of the month through June 18, from 1 to 3 p.m. During this class you will learn Infant and Child CPR, AED and what to do if your child or infant is choking. The class applies to infants and up to age 12. These are skills everyone caring for an infant or child should have to ensure their safety. This is the perfect class for parents, nannies, babysitters, or family members who might be caring for your child. For more information, email lpunaro@frontlinescpr.com or visit frontlinescpr.com to sign up for the class. Space is limited and classes generally sell out weeks in advance. hillcenterdc.org.

The Lion King Returns to the Kennedy Center

On June 21 to July 19, The Lion King returns to the Kennedy Center. Winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, this landmark musical event brings together one of the most imaginative creative teams on Broadway. Tony Award-winning director Julie Taymor brings to life a story lled with hope and adventure set against an amazing backdrop of stunning visuals. The Lion King also features some of Broadway’s most recognizable music, crafted by Tony Award-winning artists Elton John and Tim Rice. $39 to $185. It is recommended for ages six and up. kennedy-center.org.

CARPET CLEANING

WOVEN HISTORY

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

CAPITOL HILL APARTMENT FOR RENT

1242 Maryland Avenue, NE. One bedroom, one bath, English Basement Apartment centrally located on a tree-lined street on Capitol Hill, Washington, DC. Steps from the bustling H Street corridor. On a Metro bus route and within walking distance of Union Station. New kitchen and floors, open living space, separate laundry room, central air, and dishwasher. NO PETS and NO SMOKING, please. $1,750 per month plus utilities. Available immediately. Call 202-256-9248.

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

OFFICE SPACE AT THE HILL CENTER

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

CROSSWORD Animal Noises

by Myles Mellor

Across:

91. He was famous for spoon bending

Owl sounds

Get by

Superman to Lois Lane

Like some committees 113. Old Irish writing 117. “___ pis!” (“Too bad!,” in France)

118. Orkin victims

120. Greek H’s

122. “I am the greatest” boxer

123. Frog noises

125. Wolf noises

130. Jukebox faves

131. Out

132. Turned state’s evidence

133. Eye with intent

134. Most edgy

135. Kind of question

Down:

1. Tied a shoe

2. Massey of “Balalaika”

3. One who spikes the punch

4. “’Tis a pity”

5. Calypso offshoot

6. Soft foot covering

7. Terminator

8. Computer created by Arthur C. Clarke

9. Wordsworth work

10. Italian resort

11. Himalayan cedar

Look

16. Emily of the Dixie Chicks

17. Island, to a Venetian 18. Red-spotted creatures 20. Modifying wd.

Cry of pain 29. Abbr. after old generals’ names 32. ___ du jour 33. “We ___ please” 35. Like some old phones

Fuego

50. Lick 51. Idle

Hosp. room

Erect

Mandela’s org.

New beginning? 57. Antelope with tufted tail

Originates

Sci-fi extra

Beach-closing phenomenon 72. Warren Buffett, e.g.

Droops 74. Light beige

Thrash 77. Volcanic fallout 78. Girl from Ipanema’s home 79. Space exploration mission 80. Authorized to travel 81. Biblical birthright seller 82. One of the Bobbsey twins

84. Introspect 85. Kind of rug 86. Hit alternative 90. In the know

Compass point 95. Word form for “trillion” 96. Cozy 98. Branch headquarters? 102. Did a double take? 103. Chant 104. Compromised computers running on automatic 105. Military sch. 106. Maj.’s superior 107. Baseball Hall-of-Famer Combs

108. Cathode’s counterpart 109. Way up 112. Makes warmer 114. Peddles

115. Woody of “Manhattan” 116. Bungle

118. Attention getting sound 119. Kind of song

121. Military rank, abbr. 124. Mauna ___ Observatory 126. Mormons, abbr. 127. Envelope that comes back, abbr.

SPRING MARKET BLOSSOMS!

SOPHISTICATED URBAN LIVING

The Fairfax - 1200 East Capitol, NE #3

Original Old World Craftsmanship w/ Modern Stone & Stainless Kitchen, this ground floor 1411 sf condo has 9’ pocket doors, inlaid hardwood floors, intricately carved mantels, coffered ceilings, wainscoting and has lovely views of Lincoln Park, the heart of the Hill!

The Clara Barton - 616 E St, NW #709

T1BR condo quietly faces landscaped courtyard & is near theatres, clubs, pubs, restaurants, sports, museums, monuments, and multiple metros move you to more! The Barton has ample amenities; Lobby w/ concierge, roof deck & grills, swimming pool, club room, business office, gym, and parking is available!

COMING SOON

Colossal Corner Colonial Wardman on the Hill, 3000+ sf, w/ 4 car parking; restored, renovated & a fully finished basement inlaw suite, fireplaces, showcase kitchen, palladian windows, landscaped yard, and more!

Brookland Beauty! Updated Semi-detached porchfront w/ 3 Bedrooms, 2+baths, LL Den, original wood details, 2.5baths, and a park location!

BREAKING NEWS:

(Washington, DC) The HOUSING Market, allegedly insane, has been caught! It was wrestled to the ground, tranquilized, and placed in a straight jacket.

The Federal Reserve has indicated that they will keep the market in restraints (and keep raising rates!) until, “They are no longer a danger to the public or themselves.” However long that might take!

And Now a Word from the Sponsors:

John Smith 202.262.6037

Aaron Smith 202.498.6794

Peter Davis 301.332.1634

Office 202.608.1880

Licensed THE SMITH BROTHERS To HILL with the Suburbs!