Welcome to this elegant and beautiful home in the heart of Capitol Hill. This meticulously crafted residence offers 3 bedrooms, a den, and an office! There are 3.5 bathrooms spread across a generous 2,396 square feet of living space.
Upon entering, you are greeted by a sophisticated and very Georgetown-esque sunken living room, adorned with a cozy fireplace, perfect for entertaining or unwinding after a long day. The wellappointed kitchen boasts sleek modern appliances and ample storage, making meal preparation a delight. The formal dining room is over-sized and gracious. Upstairs, the primary bedroom suite is a serene retreat, featuring a luxurious en-suite bathroom and generous closet space. Two additional bedrooms provide a fabulous lifestyle, as each has its own private bathroom.
Outside, a charming dual level patio provides tranquil outdoor space for al fresco dining or morning coffee. The alley access potentially allows for parking on the patio! Experience the epitome of sophisticated city living in this stunning Capitol Hill residence. Schedule your private tour and make this exquisite property your own.
Magnificent two unit with large garage and fabulous location!
LISTED: $1,590,000
Listing Agent: Don Denton 202-256-1353
702 9th Street SE
Best buy on Capitol Hill!
SOLD: $1,610,000
UNDER CONTRACT: $599,000
Listing Agent: Don Denton (202) 256-1353
533 12th Street NE
Sweet home featuring cozy open living room.
Dining room with fireplace.
SOLD: $825,000
Listing Agent: Don Denton 202-256-1353
Painted Ladies of Capitol Hill: Color Is The Key
by Stephanie Cavanaugh
Theater Night: A Curated Preview of Theater in the DMV
by Matthew McClure
Pattie Cinelli
95 Theater Night: A Curated Preview of Theater in the DMV by Matthew McClure
98 Capitol Cuisine by Celeste McCall
100 Art and The City by Phil Hutinet
104 Literary Hill by Michelle LaFrance
105 Poetic Hill by Sandra Beasley
107 Celebrating Juneteenth at the Equal Justice Initiative: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Learning Experience by Pattie Cinelli
110 The District Vet: Canine Ehrlichiosis by Yuri Lee, DVM
112 Kids and Family Notebook by Kathleen Donner
on the cover: Heather Duncan, East Cap 2023, 8x10, Mixed Media: Watercolor, Gouache and Acrylic from the 2024 CHAL & Hill Center Galleries Juried Exhibition. On Exhibit until September 15th.
Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital – A VIBRANT HOME FOR CULTURE, EDUCATION, AND CITY LIFE ON CAPITOL HILL. 921 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE. Washington, DC 20003 hillcenterdc.org/galleries • 202.549.4172 Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/HillCenter Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/HillCenterDC
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WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON
Spirit & Strength: Modern Art from Haiti at the NGA Art flourished in Haiti—the world’s first Black republic—in the mid-1900s. Painters like Hector Hyppolite, Rigaud Benoît, and Philomé Obin were known around the world for their images of Haitian daily life, religious traditions, and history. Their works influenced generations of African American artists. Several, including Lois Mailou Jones and Eldzier Cortor, traveled to and worked in Haiti. From Sept. 29 to March 9, 2025, Spirit & Strength is a chance to see 21 works by Haitian artists recently given to the National Gallery. Get an introduction to Haitian modern art and experience the remarkable creations of some of the most prominent artists in Haiti’s history alongside works by artists building upon their legacy today. nga.gov.
H Street Festival
Held on Sept. 21, noon to 7 p.m., the H Street Festival is located between Third and 15th streets NE. One of DC’s most anticipated and highly attended festivals, it has 15 staging areas that are diversely themed and programmed to target different segments of audiences. The staging areas feature music, dance, youth-based performances, interactive children’s programs, fashion, heritage arts, poetry and many more. The festival started as a 500-participant block party more than 19 years ago; it has now grown into a 150,000 participant event. hstreetfestival.org.
Mister Lincoln at Ford’s
In this witty and revelatory one-man show starring Scott Bakula as President Abraham Lincoln, Lincoln shares stories of himself during some of our country’s most important historical events. From his own perspective, first as a prairie lawyer and anti-slavery advocate in Illinois, to later in Washington as president of the United States, when he signs the Emancipation Proclamation and becomes the liberator, this insightful play leans on Lincoln’s own brilliant language to reveal surprising aspects of the life of one of our nation’s greatest presidents. Mister Lincoln is at Ford’s Theatre, 514 10th St. NW, from Sept. 20 to Oct. 13. fords.org.
Wilson Bigaud, Adam and Eve, 1953, oil on board, 25 x 30 1/2 in. National Gallery of Art, Promised Gift of Beverly and John Fox Sullivan. Photo: Luke Christopher
Scott Bakula
FRIDAY, SEPT 27 I 5 PM – 10 PM
WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON
Annapolis Baygrass Music Festival (Every Jam Saves the Bay)
DC Art All Night (Free overnight arts festival)
DC Art All Night happens from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. the following morning on two nights— September 27 and 28. The festival takes place in all eight wards with different activations on each night, bringing visual and performing arts, including painting, photography, sculpture, crafts, fashion, music, literary arts, dance, theater, film, and poetry, to indoor and outdoor public and private spaces, including local businesses and restaurants. Read more on how to join the fun at dcartallnight.org.
The Annapolis Baygrass Music Festival at Sandy Point State Park on Sept. 21 and 22 (rain or shine), 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., is a conservation and community-focused musical event that blends the finest progressive bluegrass, jamgrass and Americana music with a gorgeous beachfront venue, and a mission to protect the Chesapeake Bay and raise mental health awareness. You’ll enjoy 14 of the best local and nationally touring bands on two alternating stages and an interactive workshop pavilion. Baygrass features locally sourced food, including fresh oysters, microbrews, craft cocktails and wines, beach yoga, music and educational workshops, beach and yard games, kids’ activities, local craft vendors, an exceptional VIP experience and much more. General admission tickets for ages thirteen and over are $225. baygrassfestival.com.
The National and The War On Drugs
Formed in 1999, The National have established themselves as mainstays of arenas and festivals with sold-out performances and headlining slots around the world. The band has scored five top 10 albums on The Billboard 200, multiple Grammy nominations with 2017’s Sleep Well Beastearning the award for Best Alternative Album. The War on Drugs have steadily emerged as one of this century’s great rock and roll synthesists, removing the gaps between the underground and the mainstream. Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, MD, on Monday, Sept. 16, 6:45 p.m. (gates at 5:15 p.m.). Tickets are $40.50 to $120.50. merriweathermusic.com.
Faithless at Washington Stage Guild
From Sept. 26 to Oct. 20, family differences become amplified when faith is the main point of conversation and contention in Jon Klein’s latest comic drama. Aging atheist Gus and his two adult stepchildren–a minister suffering from a crisis of faith, and his hardened, nonbeliever sister who’s had a glimpse of the afterlife following a head injury–come together when Gus’ teenage, adopted daughter stuns them with her decision to become a nun. Faithless is at WSG’s performance venue, 900 Massachusetts Ave. NW. Tickets start at $50. There is a 10% senior discount. stageguild.org.
An Evening with PJ Harvey at The Anthem
From the outset of her career, the work of PJ Harvey has commanded attention. A multi-instrumentalist, she is primarily a vocalist, guitarist and pianist. In 1991, Harvey formed the eponymous bass/drums/guitar trio in Dorset, England and in March 1992 released Dry which was hailed globally as an astonishing debut album, particularly in the United States, where Rolling Stone magazine named Harvey “Best Songwriter” and “Best New Female Singer” of 1992. An Evening with PJ Harvey is at the Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW, on Wednesday, Sept. 11, 8 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.). Tickets are $55 to $95. theanthemdc.com.
Aerialists performed during Events DC's activation during Art All Night Shaw 2024. Photo by Victoria Pickering, Courtesy Shaw Main Streets.
WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON
Maryland Seafood Festival
The Maryland Seafood Festival returns to Sandy Point State Park, Annapolis, on Sept. 14 and 15, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (rain or shine). The Festival hosts loads of seafood vendors, live music, local shopping and vendor options, a fantastic beverage selection with lots of local craft beer and kids activities. (There will also be plenty of hot dogs and chicken tenders for the kids.) Back this year is the Naptown Seafood Sampler which includes eight samples from area restaurants plus a drink for $25. General admission is $15 ($20 day-of) and free for kids 12 and under. Visit their website for parking information at abceventsinc.com/maryland-seafood-festival/.
Oktoberfest Weekend at the Wharf
It’s that time of the year—put on your dirndl or lederhosen, grab your Dachshund and head to The Wharf for their free Oktoberfest festivities on Friday, Oct. 4 and Saturday, Oct. 5. Here’s the schedule: Friday, 4 to 9 p.m., a free polka dance class and polka dancing to a live band; Saturday, 2 to 5 p.m., cheer on the dogs competing in the annual Wiener 500 Dachshund Dash to benefit Rural Dog Rescue. Starting Monday Sept. 30, visit participating Wharf restaurants and try your hand at Wharfwide stein hoisting contest. Winners from each restaurant will be invited to take their place in the Saturday, Oct. 5 championship contest on District Pier. wharfdc.com.
National Gallery Nights
The NGA’s popular National Gallery Nights after-hours program returns to the East Building this fall on the second Thursday of September, October and November (Sept. 12, Oct. 10, and Nov. 14) from 6 to 9 p.m. The season kicks off with “A Night in Paris,” offering the only opportunity to enjoy the exhibition Paris 1874: The Impressionist Moment after hours. In October they celebrate Día de los Muertos, and their November program will be a love letter to the city the NGA calls home. Light fare, gelato, and beverages—including beer, wine, and specialty cocktails—will be sold throughout the East Building. Their September and October programs will also feature activities on the Fourth Street Plaza, open to all without registration. A lottery takes place the week before each event: it opens on Monday at 10 a.m. and closes on Thursday at noon. Additional passes are available at the East Building entrance—first come, first served—starting at 5:30 p.m. nga.gov.
Zen and the Open Road at American History
Marking the 50th anniversary of Robert M. Pirsig’s Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance: An Inquiry into Values, this special display features his 1966 Honda Super Hawk motorcycle. With the motorcycle as the centerpiece, visitors also can view Pirsig’s leather riding jacket and motorcycle helmet, the bike’s keys, and the worn motorcycle maintenance manual that accompanied the ride. Pirsig’s typewriter, on which he wrote the book, as well as a typed manuscript and a signed first edition of the book is also on display. Pirsig endured rejection by 121 publishers but persevered, eventually selling the book to the publisher William Morrow and Company. With the publication’s royalties, Pirsig purchased a 32-foot sailboat that inspired his next novel, Lila: An Inquiry into Morals. Zen and the Open Road is in the American on the Move exhibition. americanhistory.si.edu.
Robert M Pirsig’s 1966 Honda Super Hawk motorcycle. Photo: Jaclyn Nash, Courtesy of the National Museum of American History.
WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON
St. Vincent at the Anthem
Annie Clark made her recorded debut as St. Vincent in 2007 with Marry Me, quickly becoming regarded as one of the most innovative and fascinating presences in modern music. In 2017, her fifth album MASSEDUCTION would break St. Vincent into the US and UK top 10s and win two more. 2021’s Daddy’s Home found St. Vin cent channeling the hungov er glamor and gritty sepia-toned soundtrack of 1970s downtown NYC to an ecstatic reception, ultimately winning her a secondBest Alternative Album GRAMMY.
Annie Clark (St. Vincent) will be at the Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW, on Friday, Sept. 13, 8 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.). Tickets are $55 to $95. theanthemdc.com.
The 22+ Weddings of Hugo at GALA
Why in the world does Hugo, a quiet postal clerk, keep getting married? Based on a true story, The 22+ Weddings of Hugo by Gustavo Ott is a raucous tale of “a beautiful crime” that delves into several hidden themes of our day, from empathy and immigration, to love in times of hatred, and the universal need to find refuge in a place, person, or a feeling. This play won the 2018 Marius Gottin Award for non-Francophone plays from the Écriture Théâtrale Contemporaine Caraïbe. Tickets are $22 to $50. The 22+ Weddings of Hugo is at GALA Theatre, 3333 14th St. NW. galatheatre.org.
HFStival at Nat’s Park
The HFStival was an annual festival organized by alternative rock station WHFS that ran from 1990 to 2006 and again in 2010 and 2011.
On Saturday, Sept. 21 (rain or shine), 10 a.m. to midnight, HFStival is at Nat’s Park featuring The Postal Service, Death Cab For Cutie, Incubus, Bush, Liv Phair, Jimmy Eat World, Girl Talk, Violent Femmes, Tonic, Filter and Lit. Tickets start at $99. impconcerts. com/event/hfstival.
Caesar & The Mannequin at the Atlas
Inspired by the Man Ray painting “Shakespearean Equation: Julius Caesar,” in the Phillips collection, Composer Andrew E. Simpson and Librettist Susan Galbraith have concocted a Dadaist fantastical story of a Caesar, a character who is determined to cling to power at whatever cost and sings, “You can’t stick me in a closet; I will not stay there.” This full live-plus-mixedmedia work is expanded from a prescient 2020 opera film produced in response to COVID. In 2024 as we careen toward the November election the story is even more dangerously relevant today than it was four years ago. The Man Ray Project: Caesar & The Mannequin is at the Atlas, 1333 H St. NE, from Sept. 12 to 22. Tickets are $45.25, including service fees. atlasarts.org.
Mosaic’s Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill
On Sept. 5 to Oct. 6, at the Atlas, 1333 H St. NE, journey back to 1959 for an unforgettable rendezvous with Lady Day herself—the incomparable Billie Holiday performed by DC legend Roz White, in the role she was born to play. Featuring classics such as “God Bless the Child” and “Strange Fruit,” this acclaimed play with music transports you to a small bar in Philadelphia for one of the icon’s final concerts, transforming the theater into an immersive nightclub complete with a live band and cocktails. Building on the success of Mosaic’s past productions Twisted Melodies and The Devil’s Music: The Life and Blues of Bessie Smith, this fresh production of Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill explores the triumphs and traumas of Holiday’s life and career while celebrating the resilience of Black women throughout history. Tickets are $42 to $80. mosaictheater.org.
Death Cab For Cutie
Roz White as Billie Holiday.
Photo: Chris Banks
WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON
IN Series: The Cradle Will Rock
This famous and infamous 1936 American musical masterpiece became a thundering piece of American history when governments and unions alike tried to ban its first performance. Artists defied those orders to bring this searing work to life, celebrating the labor movement from the seats of a packed theater while the work’s composer and librettist Marc Blitzstein sat alone at the piano onstage. Originally directed by Orson Welles, this imaginative new version honors the story of this rarely heard classic’s origin while it teams with energy, humor, melody and thirst for justice. The Cradle Will Rock is at the Goldman Theater, DCJCC, 1529 16th St. NW, on Saturdays, Oct. 5 and 12, 7:30 p.m. and Sundays, Oct. 6 and 13, 2:30 p.m.
Tickets are $35 to $72. inseries.org.
Because They’re Funny Comedy Festival is at the Anthem
Because They’re Funny (BTF), is a comedy festival from the producers of the American Black Film Festival showcasing BIPOC comedic talent and propelling a new generation of diverse comedians to stardom. Created for anyone who likes to laugh, BTF’s lineup includes headline shows, the “Breakout Comedian of the Year Competition,” panels, comedy classes, networking events, and the “BTF Cares” Charity Fundraiser. At the Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW, Sept. 28 and 29, 7 p.m., both nights. Tickets are $39.50 to 99.50. theanthemdc.com.
Snallygaster Beastly Beer Jamboree
Named for the fearsome and toothy mythical beast said to terrorize the DC region at the turn of the century, Snallygaster returns to DC on Saturday, Oct. 12 (rain or shine). Festival goers can expect a mind-boggling selection of no fewer than 450 highly sought-after draft beers, casks, gravity kegs and bottle pours from over 175 of the finest American and international producers set against a backdrop of local food trucks and two stages of live music. $75 for a 2 p.m. entry; $150 for an entry at noon. They have a family-friendly section where kids can do fun activities such as getting their face painted and pumpkin decorating. Children under 12 do not have to pay. Kids over 12 can gain entry for $10. snallygasterdc.com.
JaJa’s African Hair Braiding at Arena
From Sept. 6 to Oct. 13, at Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SW, step into the vibrant world of Jaja’s African Hair Braiding, a riotously funny yet deeply resonant play by Jocelyn Bioh. Set in the pulsating heart of Harlem, this comedic gem unravels the complexities of cultural identity, assimilation, and the pursuit of the American Dream within the African immigrant community. Follow the uproarious escapades of Maria, Bea, Miriam, Aminata, Ndidi, Jaja, and others as they navigate life and laughter in Jaja’s bustling hair braiding salon. With humor as rich as its characters, this Tony Award-winning production weaves hilarious moments with profound insights, celebrating the indomitable spirit and interconnectedness that define us all. Tickets are $45 to $95. (Visit arenastage. org/tickets/savings-programs for discounts.) arenastage.org.
WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON
American Aquarium at Union Stage
American Aquarium is an American alternative country band from Raleigh, North Carolina. They have released seven albums, including their most critically acclaimed album to date, 2012’s Burn. Flicker. Die. The band released their sixth original album, Wolves, in February 2015 when the band’s fans helped raise $24,000 through a Kickstarter project to help fund the album’s production. Union Stage, 740 Water St. SW, on Friday Sept. 13, 7 p.m. (doors at 6 p.m.). General admission is $25, day-of, $30.) unionstage.com.
Folger Consort’s A Tale of Two Cities: The Music of Florence and Venice
Adeem the Artist at DC9 Nightclub
Adeem has built a following by blending Appalachian musical influences and poetic flair with a healthy dose of comedic instinct. His twang-studded gospel represents a worldview too often excluded from modern country music, one that converts shame into celebration. It turns out, people like the sound of embracing the parts of ourselves we’re told to bury—so much so that when Adeem turned to fans to support the follow-up album to Cast-Iron Pansexual, thousands obliged. Dubbing it a “redneck fundraiser,” Adeem raised the money to release White Trash Revelry by asking for one dollar at a time on Facebook. Adeem the Artist is at DC9 Nightclub, 1940 Ninth St. NW, on Thursday, Sept. 26, 8 p.m. (doors at 7:30 p.m.). Tickets are $20. dc9.club.
Both Florence and Venice were European power centers in the 16th and 17th centuries. Both also had exciting musical cultures. The Consort offers pieces by important composers who worked in each city: Claudio Monteverdi and his colleagues who created at San Marco in Venice, Florentine composer Francesca Caccini, and the infamous Florentine philosopher and diplomat Niccolò Machiavelli, who was also an accomplished poet and musician. A Tale of Two Cities: The Music of Florence and Venice is at the Folger, 201 East Capitol St. SE, on Friday, Sept.13, 8 p.m.; Saturday. Sept. 14, 4 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Sept. 15, 2 p.m. Tickets are $20 to $45. folger.edu.
Presidential Library on Feb. 25, 2015.
The Atlantic Festival at the Wharf
On Sept. 19 and 20, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., both days, Atlantic writers and moderators will be joined by elected officials, best-selling authors, notable actors, climate scientists, health-care professionals, tech giants, and CEOs to tackle today’s big questions and meet the moment headon. The $225 Festival Pass (virtual pass is free) gets you two full days of one-on-one interviews, in-depth panel discussions, intimate book talks, exclusive screenings, happy hours, and more. Festival stages are within walking distance of one another, and the daily schedule provides opportunities to connect with fellow attendees over morning coffee, lunches, and happy hours. theatlantic.com/live/atlantic-festival-2024.
The Airborne Toxic Event at 9:30 Club
Known for their dramatic blend of rock and electronic music with orchestral arrangements, The Airborne Toxic Event skyrocketed to popularity with the gold-selling single from the band’s self-titled 2008 debut album, a song which spent eight weeks at #1 on Billboard’s Heatseekers Chart. Since then, The Airborne Toxic Event has played a diverse spectrum of concerts, from performing with the San Francisco Symphony and Colorado Symphony at the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheatre, to playing at the Coachella and Lollapalooza music festivals. At the 9:30 Club, 815 V St. NW, on Monday, Sept. 16, doors at 7 p.m. $45 for general admission. 930.com.
Photo: Peggy Ryan, Courtesy of Folger Shakespeare Library
The Atlantic Festival participant David Axelrod joined Friends of the LBJ Library members to speak about his memoir, “Believer: My Forty Years in Politics,” at the LBJ
LOCAL CALENDAR
Lincoln Assassination Tour at Congressional Cemetery. Sept. 14, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Hundreds of books and dozens of special exhibits are just some of the ways this story has been told. But have you ever seen the story told using the graves of those involved with the assassination? $5. Congressional Cemetery is at 1801 E St. SE. congressionalcemetery.org.
Barnaby Bright at Hill Center. Sept. 12, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Not easily defined, Barnaby Bright is an alt-Americana duo with contemporary influences that reflect their geographical journey from Brooklyn to Nashville to Kansas, while calling on Nathan’s Oklahoma roots and distant relation to Merle Haggard. $20. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. hillcenterdc.org.
Free Outdoor Yoga at Eastern Market Metro Park. Saturdays, 10 a.m. through Sept. 28, 60 minutes. Classes are at Eastern Market Metro Park, 800 Pennsylvania Ave. SE (next to the playground). Reserve a spot at barracksrow.org/ events.
Cinematery (movies) at Congressional Cemetery. Friday, Sept. 6, 7 p.m., Casper. $10. No dogs allowed. Congressional Cemetery, 1801 E St. SE. congressionalcemetery.org.
Unity Flow: Free Rooftop Community Yoga. Fridays, 7:30 to 9 p.m., through Nov. 15. FlowWell Yoga offers inclusive and accessible yoga practices tailored to the diverse needs of our community at Union Market. Register at unionmarketdc. com/events.
Capitol Hill Art Walk 2024. Sept. 7 and 8, noon to 4 p.m. Local artists and artisans display (and sell) their work in their own micro-galleries, in Capitol Hill home-studios, on porches or in yards. hillrag.com/2024/07/10/art-walk-2024.
Carpe Librum Used Book (outdoor) Popups. At Canal Park, 200 M St. SE., Sept. 7 and Oct. 5, 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. At Eastern Market Metro
Brought to You by Schneider's of Capitol Hill
Park, 701 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, on Sept. 22 and Oct. 13; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Browse through thousands of books all under $6. Sales are weather dependent. turningthepage.org.
American Roots Concert Series: Jourdan Thibodeaux with Cedric Watson and Joel Savoy. Sunday, Sept. 8, 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Quicksilver Productions Foundation presents Jourdan Thibodeaux as part of the free, outdoor American Roots Music Series. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. hillcenterdc.org.
Alliance for New Music-Theatre: The Man Ray Project: Caesar & The Mannequin. Sept. 12 to 20. Inspired by the Man Ray painting “Shakespearean Equation: Julius Caesar,” in the Phil-
Courtroom Lectures at the Supreme Court. On days when the Court is not in session, free lectures are available Monday through Friday (federal holidays excepted) on a first-come, first-served basis. Lectures are generally scheduled at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. A line forms in the Great Hall on the first floor before each lecture. supremecourt.gov/visiting/ courtroomlectures.
SESSION ONE: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
SESSION TWO: 3:00 PM –
We are thrilled to invite you to Schneider’s 75th Anniversary Warehouse Sale, an extraordinary wine tasting and discount wine buying opportunity featuring:
• 19 Producer Tables
• More than 115 Wines to Taste
• Light Bites
• Purchase wine by the full case of 12 with an additional 20% OFF the sale prices! • Purchase wine by the half case of 6 with an additional 15% OFF the sale prices! • All wine will be sold in quantities of 6 or 12 bottles
DC Coffee Festival at Union Market. Oct. 5 and 6, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Top specially curated roasters and exhibitors share with you their unique beans and flavor profiles. Dock5, 1309 Fifth St. NE. unionmarketdc.com.
lips collection, Composer Andrew E. Simpson and Librettist Susan Galbraith have concocted a Dadaist fantastical story of a ‘Caesar,’ a character who is determined to cling to power at whatever cost and sings, “You can’t stick me in a closet; I will not stay there.” $40. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. artlasarts.org.
The Drive-in at Union Market on Fridays. Sept. 13, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, 7:45 p.m.; Oct. 4, Willie Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, 7:45 p.m. $20 per car. For those on foot, pack your chairs and blankets and set up shop in front of Union Market for great views and picnicstyle entertainment at no charge. Union Market is at 1309 Fifth St. NE. unionmarketdc.com/events.
SW Night Market. Sept. 13 and 27; 4 to 10 p.m. Fourth and M streets, SW. marketswdc.com.
CiNoMatic Outdoor Movies Return. Sept. 18 to Oct. 16. NoMa BID’s outdoor movie series on the lawn of Alethia Tanner Park, 227 Harry Thomas Way NE, returns on Wednesdays at sunset. The theme of this fall’s CiNoMatic season is Fall In Love. nomabid.org.
The Atlantic Festival at The Wharf. Sept. 19 and 20, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Two days of lively exchange and debate on the issues that matter most. Hear from best-selling authors, notable actors, elected officials, CEOs and more. Festival pass, $225. theatlantic.com/live/atlanticfestival-2024.
H Street Festival. Sept. 21, noon to 7 p.m. H Street Festival is famed
for its performance lineups across multiple staging areas, food choices, the mile-long shopping experience and countless patios H Street businesses host. The festival is on H Street, NE from Third to 15th. hstreetfestival.org.
Taffety Punk Riot Grrrls (the women of Taffety Punk) present Macbeth. Sept. 25 to Oct. 12. CHAW, 545 Seventh St. SE. taffetypunk.com.
Sing Out Piano Bar and Open Mic with Gay Man’s Chorus. Sept. 25, Oct. 16 and Nov. 20 and Dec. 11; 7:30 to 11 p.m. Come out to sing with live piano accompaniment or just enjoy the music. Free admission. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. atlasarts.org.
ExPats Theatre: Marlene. Sept. 28 to Oct. 19. “Marlene” is set in the dressing room of a Paris theatre where an aging Marlene Dietrich is getting ready for a singing performance. $20 to $47.50. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. artlasarts.org.
Capital City Symphony: Renew. Oct. 6, 5 p.m. “Stay put for a spell” in a musical evening of rest, resilience, and rebirth. Carlos Simon’s “Breathe” sets the scene, inviting a moment of introspective calm. $35. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. artlasarts.org.
Atlas Presents Akua Allrich: A Nina Simone, Miriam Makeba Tribute 2024. Oct. 5, 8 p.m. In her tribute concerts, rising vocalist, composer and educator, Akua Allrich pays homage to two powerhouse artists, who have inspired her and millions of other jazz and music lovers around the globe. $32. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. artlasarts.org.
Dead Man’s Run 5k at Congressional Cemetery. Oct. 12, 5:30 p.m. The race starts with a toll of the funeral bell and continues throughout the Cemetery and onto the Anacostia Trail for a ghostly evening run full of spooky music and other fun. $35. congressionalcemetery.org. u
Painted Ladies of Capitol Hill Color Is The Key
by Stephanie Cavanaugh
The room colors in Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, the delightfully quirky Australian detective series, set in 1929, are reason enough to watch. Walls painted turquoise, eggplant, and yellow are overlaid with Victorian gilded friezes and borders picking up the colors. Swanning through, in a black silk kimono embroidered with roses and a rooster with spectacular plumage, is Phryne Fisher, cocktail in hand. Oh my.
And Wes Anderson’s Grand Budapest Hotel … if the colors in that flick don’t give you vapors–go away. Enjoy your white palace.
Be warned! Great splashes of wall color are making a comeback, replac-
The “Painted Ladies” of Capitol Hill. Photos: Tech Painting
Excite a small kitchen with painted walls and cabinetry.
Photo: Jackie Sink & The JLC Team
ing those titillating shades of grey that have been dousing our walls in a drear of color ranging from dove to cement.
“Color is my favorite thing!” says Jackie Sink, an interior designer turned realtor, with the JLC Team, brokered by Compass. “You can change everything by painting the walls.”
An anglophile who breakfasts on House & Garden UK each morning, feasting her eyes on oriental and vintage rugs, trompel’œil, and murals. “I’m so bored by fast furnishings, people stripping out all this stuff that you can never replicate,” she says. “Everybody’s home looks the same.
“There are so many great color trends right now, saturated colors we haven’t seen since the late 1980s: burgundy, wine, deep greens. Sherwin Williams Saguaro is a fantastic deep, natural green.” Wrap the room with the color, paint the walls, the ceiling and the woodwork. With a view of trees, your room will melt right into the outdoors.
Slightly muddy colors are also big, she says. Consider ochre, the color of a vintage Volvo, and Toile Red, another Sherwin Williams color, a deep but faded shade, “like an old Windsor chair.”
Even the grays are more interesting than what we usually see. The wonderfully named Elephant Breath by Farrow and Ball, is a moody gray brown with a hint of lilac, that “looks great with wood trim, vintage rugs, cinnamon and terra cotta accents”.
That said, for resale, “the safest colors are warm whites and light colors like Revere Pewter, a taupe that is a little warmer than beige. Row houses are so dark.
“And I’m sitting here in a room the color of swamp water, murky and dark,” she says with a laugh. “I’d have to paint if I went to sell it.”
“I wish color sold – but it doesn’t,” she sighed, then brightened, “Though sometimes, even if you’re selling, a great wallpaper or striking paint in a bath can be a highlight. People are surprised but sometimes it just…speaks.”
Don’t Worry About Resale
That’s how Monica Weddle has managed to stay playful with her design portfolio for new construction and flip projects. “The idea that buyers are allergic to color and pattern is only half-true,” says Weddle, who is a realtor with McLean-based Fass Results Group and, full disclosure, my daughter. “People love a bold color when they can see the designer’s complete vision for the space, which is why I love to let a little loose with wallpaper or color in a powder room. In the rest of the house, I stick with neutrals to cast a wider buyer net.”
But resale is only part of the equation, and, she argues, is often too big of a concern among homeowners. “People are obsessed with resale, to the detriment of their own enjoyment of their home,” she says, recalling a new build in which the dining room was drenched in Benjamin Moore’s Persimmon, a delicious pinky-orange hue. “Everyone who walked through that house was floored by the color, and so glad to see something other than the usual gray. Of course, that house was designed and staged to the max, so the vision was clear.”
As it happens, the Color of the Year, according to Pantone, which dictates everything from the color of your next set of towels to your kitchen appliances, is a persimmonesque shade called Peach Fuzz. They’ve already announced next year’s hue, a gorgeous midnight blue named Future Dusk. Nothing shy about those hues.
“Paint is the cheapest, fastest, and easiest way to add your own vibe to your home,” says Monica. “Unless you’re planning to sell immediately, paint the damn walls.”
Bold Exteriors
Jim Nicholson, VP at Tech Painting, knows the Hill very well. He’s been painting our town for 37 years, and serves on the Board of CHAMPS, the Capitol Hill Association of Merchants and Professionals.
“People are too conservative with colors,” he says. “They’re thinking about selling and never really enjoy the house.
“Putting color in your home sells it bet-
A deep blue powder room, designed by Monica Weddle, makes a powerful frame for an oversized print—and makes the white tiles sparkle. Photo: Jackie Sink and the JLC Team
The wall color gives extra zing to the stained glass window. Photo: Jackie Sink & The JLC Team
Building Smartfromthe Start
ter– it’s warmer, more welcoming. Grey is so antiseptic.”
Tech o ers a free two-hour color consultation, suggesting nothing less than ve colors on a typical row house: body, door, trim, shutters, cornice. “Our designer is a genius with color,” he says.
We might not be ready for the painted ladies that crown the streets of San Francisco, but “you can still be conservative -- with a splash. Like using complimentary earth tones on the body of the house and a bold door and trim.”
Surprisingly, the ve-color palette does not increase the cost of the job–unless you want multiple colors on dentil moldings or egg and dart trim, more intricate work. The average cost for painting the front of a two-story row house is about $5,800 and takes about a week. Painting only the trim, a popular option, runs about $3300.
A couple of caveats: Stripping paint can a ect the price (the chemicals are caustic and di cult to use), but can be well worth it when details are hidden beneath 100-years of paint. Lead paint abatement can also be costly, though necessary, if walls are in poor repair. It’s dangerous to children and pets.
Of course, you can paint it yourself, if you’re not afraid of ladders, have the tools, and don’t mind sacri cing your weekends for the
next month or so. Stick to a shop that knows paint, Nicholson says, like Frager’s or the Sherwin Williams store. “Big box stores don’t know the product.”
Curious about designer favorites like Fine Paints of Europe and Farrow and Ball? Ringing up at $135 to $150 per can, they’re about twice the price of Benjamin Moore, but worth it.
“You want curb appeal? Farrow and Ball is a fantastic paint,” he says. “Their 280 colors are premixed, which is always better than a tinted base, and have great depth. Customers love the dimension you get.”
If your walls are in absolutely pristine condition, try Fine Paints of Europe. It requires multiple thin coats, sanded in between, but “The nish is like lacquer.” Check out examples on Pinterest or Instagram and prepare to be dazzled.
“Paint? The most expensive part of the job is labor,” he says. “Don’t go cheap on the product itself. Buy a Mercedes and you get a Mercedes. Buy a Yugo and… you don’t.”
Consider it total luxury for the price of dinner for two and a pitcher of margaritas at Las Placitas. Olé!
Stephanie Cavanaugh writes a weekly column for the newsy website mylittlebird.com
Notice the way the art pops on the accent wall, which also warms the living room. Photo: Jackie Sink
Celebration of Gardening on the Hill
18 Years as The Hill Rag’s Garden Columnist Comes to an End
Article and Photos by Rindy O’Brien
As a child of schoolteachers, my family’s yearly calendar started in September with the beginning of a new school year. Forget New Year’s Eve. Life started with the school bus coming down the street to pick us up. Fall is still that for me, a time for new beginnings.
So, this fall I am ready to jump into a new schedule and hand over the urban garden column to a new writer. My first column appeared in December of 2006, 18 years ago. This is my last one. It has been a delight to produce over two hundred articles about Capitol Hill’s public and private gardens and so many other related topics.
The absolute best part has been getting to meet so many gardeners and learning from their experiences. Hill gardeners are such an inspiration. A random quote I have always loved is “every flower is a soul blossoming in nature.” There hasn’t been a single soul that I haven’t enjoyed spending time with, and I am a better person because of it.
To be a good gardener takes patience, nurturing, and a willingness to suspend disbelief.
It takes physical hard work to dig through the hard red clay of Capitol Hill. It means enduring mosquito bites, blisters, and sunburns. It means hauling cans of water to parks that have no water supply. It means giving up on growing those California poppies you so love because your garden is all shade.
But, when the cold days of winter finally are
over, and the crocus and Cherry blossoms are starting to show, there is nothing like it . Your heart and soul are about to soar again with all the fun, companionship, and beauty you create for yourself and neighbors. For those vegetable gardeners, it also means soon your tables will be full of the fresh produce you’ve grown. The richness of a garden touches all our senses.
What I Learned
In getting ready for the transition, I took time to reread and review my work, curious about whether I repeated myself, found new topics along the way, or got stuck on certain plants or trees. Here are my five take aways:
1. Trees are at the heart of Capitol Hill. Most of the comments I received from readers were about trees, and more specifically about tree boxes and questions about DC laws regarding removal of trees. Councilman Tommy Wells and his successor Charles Allen have been leaders in passing key laws to protect the tree canopy in DC. They’ve worked hard to make sure the city’s budget provides adequate funding to let the DDOT's Urban Forestry Division (UFD) do its job. With over 170,000 trees in the city, and a need to plant even more, trees will continue to be an important part of our future. Of course, cherry trees and crape myrtles appeared in my columns as seasonal favorites.
2. A key theme running through my columns has been teaching children the joys of gar-
dening and the impact of plants on health and climate. The Friends of the National Arboretum’s Washington Youth Garden, now 50 years old, has been the leader in children’s gardening education. The garden continues to thrive and provide valuable curriculum to public and charter elementary schools in DC. Several individual Hill schools were featured in my articles for their forward-thinking efforts in gardening and food-based issues. The urban gardening and farming conference held each year by the city is testament to the vital, ongoing work being done on this front.
3. Native pollinators and plants are changing the garden landscape on Capitol Hill. When I started the column many Hill residents with small gardens leaned towards the boxwoods, English ivy, and more formal look. With greater education about the environmental benefits of pollinator plants, gardeners are abandoning their boxwoods and planting milkweed, butterfly bushes, and many blooming plants like echinacea, iris, or winterberry.
4. Capitol Hill may not have expansive gardens like you find in the suburbs. But Hill residents are quite artistic and make wise use of the space
Rindy O’Brien looks forward to more gardening and art as she finishes her 18 years as the Hill Rag’s urban garden writer.
they have to create outstanding gardens. Some of my favorite articles featured beautiful private gardens. In most cases, I just knocked on the front door and introduced myself. I was always gladly received, usually invited in for tea, and discovered the gardener was as interesting as the garden they created. Sadly, with Carl Nelson’s passing, his wonderland garden full of toys and an Atlas statue
he dressed for every occasion, is now gone, but it remains a favorite memory.
5. Using nature as an inspiration for our art and cooking is also a trend in the past few years. Workshops offered by The Hill Center, Union Market, and garden centers are often sold-out. Rewild at Eastern Market is cutting edge in bringing fresh garden ideas to the Hill. Edible plants, forest forging, and introduction to more plant-based food is something that will interest many in the years ahead.
Capitol Hill has so many public institutions to guide gardeners in their journeys. These include the US National Arboretum, Washington Youth Garden, the Smithsonian gardens including the People’s Garden, the US Botanic Garden, and the Capitol grounds. I’ve always found staff and volunteers in these places to be incredible in their knowledge and generous in their willingness to share.
While I cannot individually thank each and
every one of my readers for all the great suggestions about stories to pursue over the years, my fondest hope is that I helped you learned some new things and made it possible to enjoy your gardens even more.
I can’t close without a special shoutout to Andrew Lightman and Melissa Ashabranner of the Hill Rag for their wonderful guidance and genuine friendship. Thanks to everyone for all I have had the chance to learn and share over the past two decades. For my part, I am looking forward to taking some of those nature and art classes; volunteering to help at some of the public gardens; and maybe even joining the garden club.
Rindy O’Brien will continue to nose around the hill, and may even have an article from time to time here at the Hill Rag. Contact Rindy at rindyobrien@gmail.com u
Donna Breslin at the corner of North Carolina and 10th Street, SE has a flock of flamingos galloping across her front yard this summer. Her sense of whimsy enhances the beauty of her well-cared for garden.
BELOW: Gardeners have favorites, and camelias are one of Rindy’s, with many shrubs in full bloom fall and spring like this glorious one near Eastern Market.
Carl Nelson’s wonderland front garden on Massachusetts Ave. SE was full of toys he collected and displayed, making it one of the more memorial Hill gardens.
Protecting Your Roof From Severe Weather
by Tom Daniel
Storm Warning, Weather Alert, Tornado Warning, High Wind Advisory! These were only a few of the headlines posted in the DC area on August 8th and 9th, 2024 announcing the arrival of Tropical Storm Debby. The DC Department of Buildings posted a notice on August 8th advising homeowners and contractors to “secure properties and construction sites to ensure safety,” and that all properties should be prepared for sustained high winds and water.
This is an article about how severe weather, such as Tropical Storm Debby, and heavy rain and wind can affect your roof and home and property. Unfortunately, Debby has caused some significant damage in our area, but this event can perhaps serve as a wake-up call to homeowners to make sure the exterior of your home and especially your roof, gutters, skylights, and chimneys are in good shape and will survive the inevitable summer (and winter) storms in our area. Growing up as the son of a Capitol Hill roofing contractor and fish-
ing-fanatic father, I realized at an early age to pay attention to the weather!
Over the last 15 years or so, we have had our fair share of stormy weather including such events as Snowmageddon of 2010, Hurricane Irene in 2011, the Derecho event and Hurricane Sandy in 2012, all of which caused varying degrees of significant damage to homes and property. As a local roofing- contractor we have assisted numerous Capitol Hill homeowners to secure some extraordinary roofing emergencies and assessed and repaired:
• Damage to roofs causing leaky and failing ceilings,
• Flooded windows and basements caused by gutter and downspout damage and failure,
Damaged chimney allowing water to leak into the house. Photo: Tom Daniel
Water pooling from heavy rain. Photo: Tom Daniel
• Tree branches puncturing roofs,
• Wall caps/parapets and flashing blown off,
• Broken skylights,
• Blown off shingles, and more.
Be Proactive
Officially, the Atlantic Hurricane season runs from June 1-November 30. So, how can Capitol Hill homeowners lean forward and get ahead of the curve? If you wait until the next storm arrives it may already be too late to prevent significant roofing-related damage. And after the storms, roofing contractor phones, texts and emails are flooded (sorry about the word choice!) for days and weeks and it may be difficult to assist you then. So, I would say this: CALL YOUR ROOFING CONTRACTOR NOW to get an inspection of all things roof-related because the season doesn’t end for another three months.
To be better prepared for the reality of storm damage, what can you do now to protect your home?
Here are some important actions for your roofing professional to take:
• Gutters and downspouts should be cleared of all debris, including leaves, small tree branch-
es, dirt and mud, acorns and other nuts that fall from trees. This will enable water to flow more effectively to the drain and off the roof. In addition, if gutters and/or spouts are not properly secured to the fascia or house frame they can also fail and cause significant damage.
• Roof flashing and wall caps (parapets) are found on the roof on both the inside and the perimeter of your roof including at vent pipes/stacks, chimneys, skylights and virtually all roof penetrates. High winds and heavy rains can cause flashing to loosen, rip and tear. This aspect can allow water to easily find its way inside your home and damage the ceilings, walls and floors.
• Stains and signs of leaks on ceilings and interior walls could be roof leaks. Make sure to have all roof leaks repaired before storms can cause major damage.
• The roof deck itself (the main roof surface) should be checked for any signs of deterioration, tears and holes. Joints should be checked for signs of splits or thin areas or roof membrane and failed caulking or loose metalwork.
• All penetrations on the roof (including those
from satellite dishes, solar panels, gas lines, heat and AC units, ducts, vent pipes, chimneys and other structures) should be inspected. Any point of possible water or air infiltration needs to be checked and, if necessary, restored to a properly sealed condition.
• Check the condition of your chimneys, especially loose mortar which can be a serious source of water damage.
Cautionary Tales
Okay, now let me share a couple real life examples that our Capitol Hill customers had to deal with. Consider the case of an elderly couple living on A St. S.E. They suspected that they may have a slow roof leak because of the yellow stains on the ceiling in their master bedroom. But there was no visible sign of leaking water (yet). So, they felt it was more of an aggravation than an immediate concern because the stains had not really grown much over time. They were early risers, usually out of bed well before 7:00 a.m. One morning while having their morning coffee and toast in the kitchen, they heard a noise from upstairs. Betty made her way to the top floor and to her surprise, and probably horror, she discovered a large chunk of the ceiling had fallen onto their bed and the floor. She immediately realized the roof should have been looked at early on.
And, let me close with the case of a couple on Constitution Ave. N.E. who were puzzled by the peeling, puffy paint on the ceiling of their kitchen on the FIRST floor. There was no problem of staining or peeling paint on the top floor ceiling so they were really confused. We discovered a damaged metal box on the roof that holds the AC wiring and that box penetrates the roof and water dripped directly to the kitchen floor ceiling! It was actually a pretty easy fix to a confusing problem.
A final word: stay off your roof or be very careful if you are up there. We and other roofing companies usually offer free inspections, so let us do our job for you.
Tom Daniel is owner of R. Thomas Daniel Roofing, LLC, and is the third generation of the Daniel family to provide roofing services to Capitol Hill homeowners for nearly 100 years. Tom was born in Capitol Hill, attended Gonzaga College High School on North Capitol St. and has supported numerous community organizations. He can be contacted at 202-569-1080 or tom@rthomasdanielroofing.com. u
Clogged drain preventing water drainage. Photo: Tom Daniel
Got Lead Water Pipes?
How to find out, why they need to be replaced, and how to do it.
by Catherine Plume
Lead is bad for humans—especially pregnant women, pets, and wildlife—and can severely affect the mental and physical development of children younger than six. Lead poisoning occurs when lead builds up in the body, often over months or years. At very high levels, lead poisoning can be fatal. Many District residents unwittingly ingest lead through drinking and cooking water that comes through lead water pipes that are found in the District.
According to DC Water, an extensive review in May 2023 found that there are some 42,000 lead service lines across DC. The accompanying diagram shows the immensity of the problem with red indicating “Verified Lead,” orange indicating “Suspected Lead,” yellow indicating “No Information,” green “Suspected Non-Lead” and blue being “Verified
Non-Lead.” The District is a mishmash of red, orange, and yellow.
According to Sherri Lewis, a DC Water representative, “The highest concentration of lead service lines and replacements is in Wards 4 and 5, with DC Water prioritizing replacements in areas with a high number of lead service lines, historically underserved communities, and those with vulnerable populations.”
How Do You Know If You Have Lead Pipes In Your Home?
A first stop in determining if you have lead pipes in your home is the DC Water Service Line Map at https://geo.dcwater.com/ Lead/. Enter your address to see if there are lead service lines on your property, on District (public) property, both, or neither, when and how this information was gathered, or if there’s no available infor-
Source: DC Water
mation. Homes constructed after 1986 and larger multi-family homes are less likely to have any lead water pipes. A District law also requires landlords to disclose to tenants whether a given property contains any known lead pipes and the results of any lead testing. It requires the same of homeowners with respect to potential home buyers before any sales occur.
If the map indicates that you do have lead water pipes, DC Water offers several options to replace these pipes.
Lead Free DC
Lead Free DC was initiated in 2019 with a goal of replacing all District lead water service pipes by 2030. Since the program’s initiation, DC Water has discovered that there are many more lead water pipes across the District than initially documented, so that timeline will likely be extended.
DC Water Initiated Lead Replacements
Source: DC Water
Under this program, DC Water replaces lead service pipes in conjunc -
DC Lead Service Line Map: Lead water pipes can be found all across the District.
Lead service lines can be located on public space, private property, or both.
tion with other construction and capital improvement projects across the District. During these projects, replacement on private property is free for all residents—regardless of income. You can check out the Lead Free DC Construction Dashboard to see if there are any planned projects in your neighborhood and when they are tentatively scheduled.
Customer Initiated Lead Replacements
DC Water also offers two additional, customer-initiated programs to replace lead service lines—private-side only replacements and voluntary full replacements.
• Private side Only Lead Replacements
For r esidents with a lead pipe on private property, and a non-lead pipe in public space, the Lead Pipe Replacement Assistance Program (LPRAP) provides a free or discounted replacement. The program, in partnership with the District Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE), provides ALL eligible homeowners enrolled in the program with a 100% discount on their private service line replacement.
• Voluntar y Full Lead Replacements
If both the public and private portions of the service line are lead and the neighborhood is not currently scheduled for a replacement as part of a capital improvement project, DC Water customers can enroll in the
and is committed to removing all lead pipes. We continue to secure funding for this program and to educate District residents about the program and the health and safety risks of leaving lead pipes in the ground. When replacing service lines, we will restore a property to its original state or better, including landscaping, drywall, bricks, concrete and pavement.”
Do you have lead pipes leading to your house? Do your neighbors? Help spread the word about DC Water’s Lead-Free DC initiative—and maybe buy some doughnuts for those contractors who come out and do the hard excavation work.
Catherine Plume is a lifelong environmentalist, a writer, and a member of the Sierra Club DC Chapter ExCom. Perspectives expressed are her own and do not necessarily represent the positions of that organization
DC Water is replacing lead service lines across the District. Contact DC Water to get your lead pipes replaced as soon as possible. Credit: C. Plume
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In the Weeds
by Capitol Hill Garden Club
Could you suggest something easy to grow with impressive owers? I don’t have a lot of time to garden and I want to see visible results.
How about Hibiscus moscheutos, commonly known as hardy hibiscus or swamp rose mallow? This low maintenance, vigorous perennial has large owers (up to 8 inches in diameter) and can bloom from July to September. Flower colors include white, pink, red or burgundy, and the foliage ranges from dark green to purple. The ve-petaled blooms are typically one solid color, some varieties have a contrasting “eye” in the center. Native to North American, hardy hibiscus size varies from two-six feet high and two-three feet wide.
Hardy hibiscus requires full sun and average, medium to wet soil to thrive. It tolerates heat and humidity well, and can withstand cold winter temperatures well beyond those on Capitol Hill. It has woody stems, but dies back fully during winter, and should be trimmed in the early spring before new growth emerges.
can be late to start growing in the spring, but once
Hibiscus moscheutos, Hardy Hibiscus
it starts it grows quickly. A single plant can make a big statement and will live for 15 to 20 years.
Individual owers last just one to two days, but the plant produces new owers in rapid succession over the long blooming period. Hibiscus owers are best appreciated on the plant, as they are not suited for cut owers and have no fragrance. Deadheading promotes more blooms. To deadhead, snap or pinch o the stem below the withered ower. Butter ies and hummingbirds like hibiscus blossoms.
Hardy hibiscus can be grown in containers. Large containers are best because they don’t dry out as quickly and hibiscus requires moist to wet soil.
Hardy hibiscus can be grown from seed, starting 12 weeks before the last frost, and planted in the garden after the danger of frost has passed. Nursery-grown hardy hibiscus or transplanted dormant hardy hibiscus can be planted in spring or early fall. To promote blooming, fertilize in the spring after new growth emerges and
Hibiscus syriacus, Rose of Sharon
sprinkle a slow-release fertilizer around the roots three times during the growing season.
What’s the difference between a hardy and a tropical hibiscus plant?
Hardy hibiscus typically survives the winters outdoors, although it dies back to the ground on its own while dormant in the cold weather and is native to North America. Tropical hibiscus is native to Asia. Tropical hibiscus flowers come in bright colors, including red, yellow, orange, pink or a mixture of multiple colors in one flower. They are great container plans in our climate as they will not survive the winter and must be brought inside.
A third type of hibiscus, Hibiscus syriacus, commonly called Rose of Sharon or Althea, is a winter hardy shrub that does not die back to the ground. A native of China, Rose of Sharon grows to 12 feet tall and has three-inch purple, pink or white flowers with a stark red center. There are many Rose of Sharons on Capitol Hill.
Can I use my hardy hibiscus flowers to make hibiscus tea?
Hibiscus tea is an herbal tea made from Hibiscus sabdariffa, also called roselle, an African hibiscus. Hardy hibiscus flowers have been bred for appearance, not taste.
Want to learn more about gardening or spend time with people who like plants? Join the Capitol Hill Garden Club, more information on the club website at capitolhillgardenclub.org. Gardening advice, information and commentary from the Capitol Hill Garden Club. Send your questions to capitolhillgardenclub@gmail.com u
Real Estate Capitol Hill
The Current State Of The Market
by Don Denton
It’s nearly the end of summer and the Capitol Hill real estate market is in its usual malaise. Seems like nothing is selling and prices are lower than they were in the spring. The sky is falling. So much uncertainty out there in the market and in the world in general. What is going
to happen when I want to sell my $2M home?
The short answer to this is that the sky is not falling. The late summer and early fall market is historically the slowest time of the year for us. Held an open house lately? All the buyers must have gone to the beach or are spending the summer at that
remote work/getaway house that they bought four years ago to escape the pandemic!
Two absolutes: During the first six months of the year, 60 percent of our sales are made. Last six months, 40 percent. Doesn’t seem like much of a difference, but it is enough to make it feel like the real estate market is heading south. But it does this every year. The last six months are more of a buyer’s market. That said, a lot depends on the product. The right house at the right price will still move quickly and possibly with multiple offers. Not a time to be too aggressive with price.
Uncertainty is a Given
The second absolute is that we have no idea where this market is heading—we never do. We can only look backward and watch the trends. Will the recent talk of lower interest rates have an impact? Of course, but how long will buyers wait to come back in sufficient numbers to make a difference?
Most lenders have already baked in lower rates and have come up with some creative programs that put a lot of cash in a buyer’s pocket to ease the transition to home ownership or to that next, bigger home. Uncertainty is definitely a problem. But, in the summer of 2020, who would have guessed that we were staring down the barrel of 24 months of the best real estate market that we have had in recent history!
As to the numbers for this year for single family homes in Washington DC, I think we can safely say that we will end the
year with a small bump in median sales prices (3-5 percent). The actual number of sales will be about the same as last year at around 3,400. Days on market up slightly to 35. A slight increase in upper bracket sales to 83 percent percent of the market (prices >$500,000). Number of listings up, but the market is not ooded with inventory.
On Capitol Hill, much the same. Our median prices are o a little. The Hill number of properties over $500,000 is still at roughly 98 percent. I know it’s ancient history and lots of factors at work, but that 98 percent number staggers me when I see that the number of sales in 1995 for properties under $500,000 represented 99 percent of our market!
Bottom line is, don’t play the market. Look at your own situation and when the numbers and other factors work for you as a buyer or seller, jump on it.
Denton is Associate Broker at Coldwell Banker Realty, 350 7th St. SE. 202-256-1353. ◆
Don
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Changing Hands
by Catherine Plume
Changing Hands is a list of residential sales in Capitol Hill and contiguous neighborhoods from the previous month. A feature of every issue, this list, based on the MRIS, is provided courtesy of Don Denton, Associate Broker at Coldwell Banker Realty on Capitol Hill. The list includes address, sales price and number of bedrooms.
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Why Is Crime Declining?
Improved Police Morale, New Tactics and More Arrests are Key
by Liz O’Gorek
In the cool dawn light of an early Saturday at the end of last summer 2023, I decided to take a walk in my Lincoln Park neighborhood, with only my cell phone in my pocket.
As I crossed a wide street, a silver car pulled up to a curb on the other side, emitting a crowd of young men dressed in black.
The news is my job; I instantly knew which
MPD press release I was walking into. I swore under my breath, turned and ran. They caught me in the middle of the street, pulling me to the ground as I looked up at their masked faces blocking out the sky. “What do you want!?!” I screamed.
“Everything,” was all they said. They never suggested that they had a weapon; they did not take my phone, seemingly believing my repeated,
loud insistance that I had nothing of value. Instead, they silently melted away, leaving me in the street.
I know this could have been much, much worse, but still it affected my relationship with my neighborhood. For a while, every time I’d put a hand on the doorknob to go outside, I was seized by fear that it could happen again, to me, or to my kids.
MPD officers and ranch staffs at National Night Out on Aug. 6 in Lansburgh Park in southwest DC. MPD Chief Pamela Smith is second from left. First District Commander Colin Hall is standing second from right.
I was not alone.
Beginning in February 2023, the city suffered a major crime spike, which crested in the late summer and early fall. Suddenly, it seemed as if everyone knew someone who had been robbed or carjacked. Residents began to fear for their personal safety as criminals appeared to operate with impunity across the city.
Violent crime increased by 39% in 2023 compared to 2022; homicides were up by 34 percent and carjackings nearly doubled —from 485 to 959.
Fast forward to 2024. Overall crime has declined through the year by nearly 19 percent. Violent crime has fallen even further—35 percent. Even this summer, traditionally a time when crime rises with the temperatures, crime has not surged.
The District is even besting the national average. Data from 69 cities presented by the Major Cities Chiefs Association shows a six percent decline in violent crime during the first six months of 2024. Homicides declined 17 percent in these municipalities.
In the District, however, homicide is down by more than 30 percent as of Aug. 19. Carjackings involving a firearm have fallen 55 percent, while all carjackings have dropped by half. The District is well
on its way to seeing the lowest crime rates in nearly 20 years. What is responsible for the District’s decrease in crime?
New Leadership
In July 2023, Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) selected Pamela A. Smith as the new chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). Smith is the first Black woman ever to the lead the force.
Smith spent the majority of her public safety career with the US Park Police, the agency responsible for policing federal parks, both urban and rural. Starting there in 1998 as a patrol officer in San Francisco, she served in cities across the country including New York and Atlanta, receiving numerous commendations for her proactive efforts with drug enforcement, sobriety checkpoints, and community engagement.
Smith joined the Canine Unit as an expert handler of explosives. She served as an instructor both at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center and the Law Enforcement Driver Training Program.
In 2021, Smith was appointed Chief of US Park Police for Washington, DC. She was the first Black woman to serve in that rank in the Park Service’s 230year history.
In 2022, Smith joined MPD as the Chief Equity Officer. She led the department’s efforts on diversity, equity and inclusion. In April 2023, Smith was promoted to be the Assistant Chief of Police for the Homeland Security Bureau. There, she supervised the Special Operations Division, Joint Strategic & Tactical Analysis Command Center, and the Office of Intelligence.
Now, under Smith’s leadership, officer morale has improved.
Improved Police Morale
First District Commander Colin Hall has been an MPD officer for 26 years. Today’s force is different from years past, he said. Officers’ commitment to community engagement and their embrace of new technologies are directly responsible for the decrease in crime, he said.
The pandemic impacted both the rates and types of crimes, Hall said. It had a negative impact on operations.
“We had officers who were trained virtually. That kind of stuff had a huge impact, and I think we’re coming back full strength. I feel like we have the strong support of the mayor and city council. If we have that and the community, I feel like we’re going to be successful,” he said.
Officers also notice a change in community attitudes compared to the years of the Black Lives Matter protests. “Now we have a very different environment where they want us. And they [officers] feel that. And that just makes them be able to do their jobs better,” Hall said.
Jackie Sink
202.352.5793
jackie.sink@compass.com
Libby Clarke 202.841.1812
libby.clarke@compass.com
Crystal Crittenden
202.246.0931
crystal.crittenden@compass.com
New Tactics
As MPD Chief, “visibility” has become Smith’s catch phrase. She ordered patrol o cers out of their cars and on to the streets. She increased the force’s commitment to bicycle units. She insisted on restoring MPD’s horse mounted unit by the end of 2024. Ocers, under her watch, are committing to weekly neighborhood safety walks.
In June, MPD unveiled a new helicopter. The Airbus H-125 helicopter is fast, agile and possesses a glass cockpit to increase visibility. The department has also created a drone program.
In April 2024, MPD launched the Real-Time Crime Center (RTCC). There, investigators collect and analyze incoming calls and data to facilitate quick responses to crimes in progress. The center links MPD to federal police forces. It taps into the CameraConnect DC system, a network of CCTV cameras connected to the police.
The RTCC has signi cantly cut police response times and allowed officers to cast a wide electronic net to help apprehend eeing suspects. This has significantly changed police tactics. Here is an example.
On July 1, three men held up a scooter driver at gunpoint on the corner of 11th St. and Independence Ave. SE. The RTCC dispatched a “lookout” containing images of the suspects taken from public cameras. The center then monitored possible escape routes. The three were quickly spotted and arrested on the 2300 block of Pennsylvania Ave. SE.
RTCC also provided patrol o cers with a video of the suspects tossing the gun involved. In-
vestigating officers then found the same men had attempted to carjack another person on the 900 block of Pennsylvania Ave. SE. Later, a third victim arrived at the scene of the arrest. The three, he reported, had carjacked him in Prince George County and then used his stolen scooter to commit the other robberies. The RTCC images directly contributed to building a stronger case, MPD said.
Commander Hall attributes the significant 2024 crime drop directly to Smith’s leadership. More specifically, her insistence on increased police visibility and the embrace of new technology driven tactics are what are making the difference.
“We’re blending the old and the new,” Hall said, “All that is a credit to her.”
The combination of the RTCC and boots on the street has led to an increase in arrests, which had fallen during the years of the pandemic.
Increased Arrests
MPD only issues formatted data on arrests in the following year, but Commander Hall gave us some good news. In 2024, MPD reported a 25 percent increase in overall arrests, but did not provide overall data. Due to increased retail antitheft operations, arrests for theft have doubled, going up 104 percent. Arrests in homicide cases have also increased by 18 percent, Hall said.
Carjackings are down by half; 320 compared to 636 at the same point last year; police have made 92 arrests, accounting for nearly a third of cases.
From the high of nearly 1,000 carjackings in 2023, reports are significantly declining, said Commander Hall. As important are the arrests. The DC Council’s controversial Secure DC legislation, Hall pointed out, increased the court’s ability to detain suspects pretrial. As a result, suspects are prevented from immediately reoffending after arrest.
“We need to arrest them (offenders), we need to keep them —and then we’re pushing the US Attorney to sustain it,” Hall said, praising the legislation.
Councilmember Brooke Pinto (Ward 2-D), who chairs the DC Council on Public Safety and the Judiciary and helped push the Secure DC Bill, did not respond to requests for comment.
To aid in closing cases, the United States Attorney’s Office of the District of Columbia (USAO) has formed “investigative teams” made up of feder-
al and MPD law enforcement officers. These teams build federal cases against people driving gun violence. USAO also reviews every firearms arrest to evaluate whether it can be federal prosecution.
The certainty of rapid punishment, rather than its severity, is directly linked to the reduction of crime rates, according to political scientists at the University of Utah. USAO still declines to charge the majority of MPD arrests.
Prosecutors Charge More Cases
Do prosecution rates have an effect? It’s hard to tell.
In 2017, the US Attorney declined to pursue 33 percent of all the cases that crossed his desk. By 2022, the city did the opposite —it only prosecuted 33 percent, declining just over 66 percent of cases it received. The next year, 2023, crime rose 25 percent.
There is not a direct link between crime rates and prosecution rates when you map them together. But it is difficult to ignore the District experience over the past three years. When prosecution rates were higher in 2021, crime rates appeared to decrease; as prosecutions fell the next year, crime rates went up.
As crime rose in 2023, USA DC Attorney Matthew Graves increased prosecution rates to 44 percent, bumping it up to 55 percent in the last few months of the calendar year.
Reported crime is now down 18 percent as of Aug. 26. 2024 is not yet over, but Graves is already celebrating the decrease.
“If you got to a 36 percent reduction in homicides year over year at the end of the year, you would be hard pressed to find another jurisdiction that had that much of a drop at any point in time,” Graves said at a March press conference, quoting the decline in homicide for the year to date. “Anything close to that would be historical.”
“The steep drop in violent crime we have seen in the first half of 2024 is good news, but our office remains firmly focused on doing everything we can to continue this trend,” Graves said.
Public Perceptions of Safety
Public perceptions of safety tends to trail rather than lead reality. While statistics show crime in the District in decline, many citizens do not feel safe. The good news has clearly not reached the general populace. Asked about crime by this report-
er, most were not aware of the new data showing its decline.
A man who has worked in the Capitol Hill neighborhood for several decades, but lives in Virginia, is an excellent example of the perceptual disconnect. He has heard about the declining crime stats. Yet, the news has not impacted his sense of personal security. Even though it is more expensive for him to live in Virginia, the safety and security it provides is worth the cost. “I love DC, but I live in Virginia for safety,” he said. “It’s just not safe,” he said of the District.
His sentiment is shared in Ward 7.
“If you’re looking at TV, the newspaper and the social media that say it’s heading down, I think, if anything, it’s stable, and in some cases, it’s on the rise,” resident Francis Campbell said of the Justice Department’s crime data.
The reported decrease could be the result of a variety of factors including underreporting and the community’s increased awareness about crime and its consequences, Campbell noted.
The decline in crime appears uniform across the District —violent crime is down by 35 percent in Ward 8 and 36 percent in Ward 7. Homicide has decreased 18 percent. Robberies have fallen by almost half. But those two wards still account for a disproportionate share — 40 percent of violent crime and 55 percent, or more than half of homicides.
Returning to the Scene
I made a vow to myself that I would not let my attack mar my sense of the neighborhood. I continue to go out alone in the mornings and evenings, perhaps with an increased sense of wariness but without tremendous fear.
But I am privileged to live in an area that is disproportionately benefiting from the trend. Violent crime is down by 52 percent in my Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC), and there have been no homicides in 2024.
It is clear the overall public’s sense of safety is chasing the actual decline in crime. Yet, perceptions guide public policy. It remains to be seen whether 2024 will be a turning point or a blip. u
August Tidbits
Summer News You May Have Missed
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
Allen Recall Fails
“Recall Allen,” an effort to remove Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen (D) from office, officially failed to collect enough signatures to qualify for the November ballot. The group was required to collect 6,400 signatures by Aug. 13 deadline. It fell 900 short..
The campaign was at times heated. Recall proponents accused Allen’s supporters of yard sign defacement. There was at least one legal request for a restraining order. Allen’s supporters alleged financial impropriety by recallers and complained of petitioner tactics.
It all came to naught.
“Ultimately, the recall organizers failed to appreciate that Ward 6 residents are thoughtful people looking for real solutions to our toughest problems,” Allen wrote in a statement, “and they don’t respond to the fear and division we see play out every day on the national stage.”
Allen raised nearly $200,000 to fight the recall with the aid of former Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Wells (D). In contrast, the Re-
call campaign contributions totaled about $120,000. Contributors included a significant number of District Republicans, lobbyists and politicos.
Recall spokespeople claimed some measure of success. The campaign, they said, was chiefly designed to send a signal to the Wilson Building. They claimed credit for the passage of the Secure DC Act. The recent drop in crime, however, may have proved more salient. As of Aug. 13, the petition deadline, violent crime in DC had declined by 33 percent comparted to 2023.
As You Are Bar Reopens
As You Are Bar at 500 Eight St. SE reopened with a series of events Aug. 1 after a three-month closure for repairs. The building has been closed since April 8 after heavy rains caused extensive damage. In an April Instagram post, As You Are DC co-founder Jo McDaniel said that engineers and contractors had been on site and that they were waiting on a timeline from landlord White Star Investments.
In the meantime, As You Are kept the community together via collaborations at venues such as Trade Bar and pop-ups at Union Market’s La Cosecha. The community supported staff through the closure via donations.
The closure came only a few months after the Barracks Row safe space had raised more than $150,000 to help settle debts from the extensive renovation and soundproofing of the building and prevent it from closing.
The community’s support, McDaniel said, has meant the world to the staff both over the last few months and since As You Are opened in March 2022. “We
have been honored to build an inclusive, vibrant space with everyone who has walked through our doors,” McDaniel noted, “and we can’t wait to celebrate and create this new chapter with all of you – welcome home.”
ANC 8F Commissioner Convicted
ANC 8F Commissioner Clayton Rosenberg (8F05) pled guilty in August to federal charges of stealing pandemic relief funds. In 2020, Rosenberg and two accomplices created shell companies that claimed benefits worth more than $1.6 million. Rosenberg spent the money on beard treatments and luxury vehicles, court records state.
The court sentenced Rosenberg, also known as “Kenneth Clayton,” and “Kobe,” to five years and three months of incarceration. Rosenberg has appealed the length of his sentence.
ANC 8F is holding a special meeting on Aug. 29 to consider the matter. Commissions plan to vote on asking the DC Board of Elections to remove Rosenberg from office. The vote was not available at press time.
In addition to representing Single Member District 8F05 since 2022, Rosenberg is a partner in
The raucous “Recall Allen” campaign came to an unsuccessful end Aug. 13, after the campaign failed to gather sufficient petition signatures to get the recall on the Nov. 5 ballot. Photo: E. O’Gorek/CCN
Co-founders Rach “Coach” Pike and Jo McDaniels reopened LGBTQ safe space As You Are (500 Eighth St. SE) Aug. 1, after three months of closure to cope from significant damage due to flooding. Photo: E. O’Gorek/CCN
the Capitol Square Diner on East Capitol Street NE.
White Charged with Bribery
Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White, Sr. (D) was arrested on Aug. 18 outside a Navy Yard luxury apartment by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The following day, the US Attorney Matthew Graves charged him with bribery. White, who chairs the DC Council Committee on Youth and Recreation, with oversight over youth supervisory services, allegedly agreed to take up to $156,000 in payments in exchange for intervening in a contract dispute, according to the federal indictment.
Video captured by an undercover informant appears to show White accepting envelopes of cash in exchange for agreeing to assist the owner of an unnamed nonpro t o ering violence interruption services to secure additional city contracts.
White did not comment on the charges. His next court date
ANC 6C COMMISSIONERS
Next meeting Wednesday, September 11, 2024. Information will be posted on the ANC 6C website.
ANC 6C usually meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 7pm via Webex video conference. Please check our website for dates.
ANC 6C COMMITTEES
Alcoholic Beverage Licensing First Monday, 7 pm Contact: drew.courtney@gmail.com
Grants Last Thursday, 7 pm Contact: torylord@gmail.com Twitter: @ANC_6C_Grants
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
Commissioner Clayton Rosenberg (8F05) at the Sept. 26, 2023 meeting of ANC 8F. Photo: E.O’Gorek
on Sept. 19 is a week after the final deadline to withdraw his name from the ballot for the November General Election. White was widely expected to cruise to his third electoral victory. In the meantime, several candidates have announced their intentions to run as write-in candidates including former ANC Commissioner Markus Batchelor.
Openings at ANC 6B
At least six of the nine commissioners currently serving on ANC 6B have already announced they will not seek re-election. Edward Ryder (6B01) and Matt LaFortune (6B09) announced their decision on X. At the June meeting, Frank D’Andrea (6B04) Frank Avery (6B01) and Kasie Durkit (6B05) stated their intention to step down as well. In late July, Chander Jayaraman (6B08) confirmed he would not run again.
Candidates have stepped forward in two Single Member Districts (SMDs). Tyler Wolanin is the sole contender in SMD 6B01. Karen Hughes is putting her name forward in SMD 6B09. In SMD 6B06, there is a race between Burl Hairwood and Anna Krebs. SMDs 6B04, 6B05 and 6B08 lack candidates.
Commissioners are elected, unpaid government officials who each represent
about 2,000 voters in their SMD. Commissions meet once a month, often with subcommittees that also meet, to consider issues of concern to their constituents such as ABC licensing, development, roadway improvements. Commissioners also advocate for other resident concerns. By law, the recommendation of the ANC must have great weight with District agencies.
The qualifying date to get on the ballot was Aug. 7. Candidate can still run on a write-in basis. Visit www.dcboe.org/candidates/anc-advisory-neighborhood-commissioners for more information.
EMCAC Safety Recommendations
Nearly two years after the DC government agreed to up safety standards around Eastern Market, the promised safety bollards and security staff have yet to appear. This, despite Councilmember Allen securing funding for the project in the FY 2024 budget. The District Depart -
ment of Transportation (DDOT), which manages public space, informed EMCAC recently of the lack of plans for the bollards.
In August, The Eastern Market Community Advisory Committee (EMCAC) sent a series of recommendation to DC Dept. General Services (DGS), managers of the market; and DC Homeland Security requesting steps be taken to ensure public safety including commissioning a threat assessment, revising an emergency response plan, assessing utilities and expanding onsite security.
Moon Rabbit Settlement
DC Attorney General Brian Schwab (D) has settled his lawsuit against IHG Hotel Management. The hotel must pay $126,650 to workers of the former Moon Rabbit restaurant, formerly located at The Wharf. The payout resolves allegations that IHG failed to provide honestly and timely compensation to workers at the restaurant. IHG also owes $60,000 to the District in penalties.
The establishment, the brainchild of Chef Kevin Tien, owned and operated by IHG, closed suddenly in May amid a unionization fight. Moon Rabbit reopened under Tien’s control at 927 F St. NW in Penn Quarter the following January.
Mary McLeod Bethune Statue Turns 50
The Mary McLeod Bethune Memorial was re-dedicated on July 13, 2024. The date marked its 50th anniversary. The event was cohosted by the National Park Service (NPS), which manages Lin-
This July 25 photo of Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White, Sr. at Sycamore and Oak shows him wearing the same jacket as in the affidavit photo.
Photo: B. McAlister
In an Aug. 16 federal affidavit filed in US District Court, an FBI agent says this July 25 photo shows Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White, Sr. (D) pocketing $10,000 in cash. Screenshot: Affidavit/US District Court file
The south entrance to Eastern Market and surrounding outdoor markets at Seventh Street and Pennsylvania Avenue SE. Plans for safety bollards at the vehicular entrances to Eastern Market have been put off despite expected installation last November. EMCAC has been proposing the measure since at least 2016. Photo: E.O’Gorek/CCN
coln Park where it is located; and the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), which originally commissioned and funded this monument to their founder.
The statue was first unveiled on July 10, 1974 on Bethune’s 99th birthday. A crowd of 18,000 attended despite temperatures rising to 94 degrees. It was the first to honor an American woman on public land in the District.
Attended by Mayor Muriel Bowser, NCNW Chair Dr. Lois Keith and Bethune’s great-great grandson, Justin Bethune, the rededication took place amid sweltering temperatures before a crowd of about 500.
Guinness Record Attempt Fails
The Capitol Hill 2024 July Fourth Parade ended rather early. Barracks Row Main Street (BRMS) invited attendees to a free ice cream social as part of an attempt at the Guinness World Record for Most People to Make the Shape of An Ice Cream Cone.
More than 700 people signed up for the event, each receiving colored plastic ponchos that would indicate differently flavored “scoops” and a cone. But the attempt melted in temperatures that reached into the mid-90s as hundreds of participants sweated inside the plastic capes. One woman fainted in the pink section.
In the end the Guinness World Records Official Adjudicator was unable to get either a satisfactory count or a clear photo that would meet the official standards.
New Openings Around the Hill
Coming up soon: a new Union Market Kitchen is slated to open in the old Subway sandwich shop at 430 Eighth St. SE. The 1,400 square foot business has been in the works since 2022 and is expected to serve quick breakfasts, lunch and dinner items as well as sell groceries and housewares. Signage is visible but an opening date has yet to be announced. The venue will join six others throughout the District and area. www.unionkitchen.com
Dos Toros Taqueria at 215 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, an East Coast taco chain with restaurants in Chinatown, Dupont Circle and New York City,
has signs up that portend an opening in the former Firehook Bakery. The restaurant specializes in Mission-style burritos, tacos, salads and tacos. AG Restaurant is slated to open at 816 H St. NE, the former Dirty Water. Owners Ralph Dadzie and Donna Scott-Dadzie are from West Africa originally and also own Bellos Lounge in Richmond. The couple also owns the building. Tiffany’s Bar and Bistro is also set to come to 709 H St. NE, formerly Po Boy Jim’s. It has a small outdoor patio.
Capitol Hill is getting a Van Leeuwen Ice Cream shop at 660 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. Expect such offbeat flavors as hazelnut fudge cookie, coffee affogato, dulce de leche brownie. For updates visit www.vanleeuwenicecream.com.
Asian-Latin cocktail bar Providencia by Maketto chef Erik Bruner-Yang and two longtime bartenders, opened Aug. 7. Hidden south of H Street at 1321 Linden Court NE, the tiny space seats about 45 over two levels. It boasts a cocktail and bites menu inspired by the three founders childhood memories in El Salvador and Taiwan. Yang has said the tiny space gives him the opportunity to play with food again. Instagram @barprovidenciadc
CompimentsOnly Subs opened in the former Bitter Grace storefront at 526 Eighth St. SE. The restaurants serves hot and cold sandwiches with cute names (Marisa Tomei Eats Free, Crunchy Boi, Sicky Wicky Club). It’s the second location for Pete and Emily Sitcov, who started making subs during the pandemic. complimentsonlysubs.com
Palestinian House of Freedom Opens
The Palestinian House of Freedom opened an office at 600 Pennsylvania Ave. SE in late July. It is a new Washington-based nonprofit organization dedicated to educating Americans on Palestine. It’s founding president is Israeli-American activist and author Miko Peled. www.daralhurriya.org/
Tyler Elementary Officially Renamed
On Aug. 24, Shirley Chisholm Elementary at 1001 G St. SE celebrated its official naming day. The school was formerly named John Tyler Elementary. Tyler was a former president who owned slaves, espoused racist theories and joined the confederacy during the Civil War.
The school community began the renaming process in 2018 but chose the new name through a collective process throughout 2023. Shirley Chisholm was an activist who was the first Black woman elected to the US Congress in 1968 and the first Black candidate for the Democratic nomination for President. She was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously in 2015.
Closed
The 7-11 on Barracks Row at E Street SE closed in August, citing theft. Lavagna, the small Italian restaurant at 539 Eight St. SE, closed up without comment in late June. Both Boxcar Tavern and Ophelia’s Fishhouse, part of the Hill Restaurant Group (HRG), closed in July as part of a planned consolidation. Other HRG assets could follow as leases expire. The group closed its Navy Yard properties: the Stadium Lounge and Smokehouse earlier in the summer. It owns the Hawk’N’Dove, Lola’s and Playa Ocho. u
Justin Bethune stands with the statue of his Great-Great Grandmother, Mary McLeod Bethune, at the re-dedication of the monument in Lincoln Park July 13. Photo E. O’Gorek
Rosetta Brooks
Performer, Choreographer and Beloved Teacher
by Stephanie Deutsch, photos Andrew Lightman
Rosetta Brooks, who grew up on Capitol Hill and was for sixty years essential to the Dance Studio at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, died on July 15 at her home in Vienna, Virginia. As a performer, teacher, choreographer, colleague and studio director, “Rosie,” as she was affectionately known, trained hundreds of children as well as legions of adults. She had been in poor health for the past year.
When Rosie was born in September, 1946, she had two club feet; the doctor who treated her
suggested heavy orthopedic shoes and ballet lessons as a way to strengthen her legs. It worked –not only were her feet corrected, but Rosie discovered a passion for dance that never left her. She got what she described as “good basic training
in ballet and tap” at a local studio. Growing up on 6th Street SE, she attended neighborhood public schools (Giddings Elementary and Hine Junior High) then went on to Dunbar, where she remembered, “I danced my way through high school.” She enrolled at Howard University in the physical education department which was the only field of study whose curriculum included dance.
It was while she was at Howard that a friend from high school, George Faison (who went on to dance with the Alvin Ailey Dance Company and to be a Tony Award-winning choreographer) asked her if she could substitute in a program at a young semi-professional dance company he was involved with at St. Mark’s. Rosie accepted. She liked the experience and she never left, forming a close relationship with the company’s founder, the late Mary Craighill. A series of physical problems from chronic tendonitis to bad knees cut short Rosie’s performing career leaving her to focus her energy on the choreography and teaching which were her great loves. Beginning in 1965 Rosie taught everything from beginner ballet through pointe as well as modern jazz dance to both children and adults. She choreographed dances for bi-annual recitals and liturgical dances for St. Mark’s Church, encouraging people without training to see their work as less about performance and more as an offering. “When you dance,” she used
to say, “you get closer to God.” She became director of the Studio after Mary Craighill’s death in 1999.
In addition to teaching both ballet and jazz dance, Rosie choreographed for several productions of the St. Mark’s Players including “Oklahoma” and “The Little Mermaid.” While at St. Mark’s she also taught at the after-school programs at St. Peter’s School and the KIPP Academy. Last year, as her health deteriorated, she became Dance Studio Director Emerita, handing studio direction and management over to her longtime colleague Dot Walker but continuing to teach a chair exercise class to a group of devoted women.
Rosie’s youth included some memorable D.C. events. As an almost 17-year-old she attended the 1963 March on Washington. In those days before the jumbotron she said she couldn’t hear what was happening on the front portico of the Lincoln Memorial “but I could feel it.” Five years later, in the aftermath of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination in April 1968, she stood on the
Rosetta Brooks teaching one of her adult ballet classes at St. Mark’s Dance Studio.
Rosetta Brooks
corner of 11th and H streets NE with her ancé, Arthur Brooks, and watched the Kinney’s shoe store that he managed burn to the ground. Fortunately, before the building went up in ames Brooks had been able to rescue from the store’s safe the wedding ring he planned to give Rosie later that month. They canceled their big wedding and got married in the pastor’s house associated with Ebenezer United Methodist Church on 4th Street, SE. The wedding dinner was at her parents’ home on 6th St. SE.
Arthur Brooks and Rosie had two children, Antoinette and Joseph, who were teenagers when their father died of a heart attack in 1987. Rosie carried on, putting them both through college, taking pride in their accomplishments and celebrating when they married. In 2006 Rosie became a grandmother to Joseph Jr. who, even before he could walk, often came to classes at St. Mark’s with his mother, April, a dancer. In 2013, Rosie’s daughter Antoinette died of cancer.
Rosetta Brooks did not always have an easy life but she will be re-
membered for, among other things, her unfailingly positive attitude. Always eager to encourage her students, to celebrate their life events or share their worries, she was a beacon of encouragement, of light and of love for many. It is an understatement to say she will be missed.
Her recollections of her life were recorded by the Overbeck Oral History Project of the Capitol Hill Community Foundation, which in 2009 awarded Rosie a Capitol Hill Community Achievement Award. A transcript of that interview can be found at https://www. capitolhillhistory.org/interviews/rosetta-brooks.
A memorial service will be held for Rosetta Brooks at St. Mark’s Church, 301 A St. SE, at 1 p.m. on Saturday, September 21. All are welcome. The service will be live-streamed www.stmarksdance. org and www.stmarks.net Donations can be made online at Rosie Brooks Dance Scholarship or mail checks to: St. Mark’s Dance Studio Attn: Dance Scholarship Rosie Brook 301 A St. S.E. Washington, DC 20003. ◆
Rosetta Brooks accepting the Capitol Hill Community Achievement Award in 2009 with president of the Capitol Hill Community Foundation Nicky Cymrot (left) and then-Vice President Stephanie Deutsch.
Bulletin Board
Open Streets DC – Seventh Street, NW (no cars, just people)
On Saturday, Oct. 5, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (road closure is from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.), Open Streets returns to Seventh Street NW. One mile of Seventh Street NW, from Rhode Island Avenue to E Street, will be closed to vehicles to allow people to safely walk, run, bike, and play. Open Streets will include hourly programmed classes and demonstrations, including yoga, dancing, and more. The event is free and suitable for all ages and abilities. No cars, just people! openstreets.dc.gov.
Call for Entries: An Artistic Self-Portrait
In 2026, the United States will come together to mark a momentous occasion: the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. As we reflect on our nation’s progress and acknowledge the work yet to be done, our collective cultural journey gives us the opportunity to engage, evolve, and elevate the narrative of our nation’s story. Through Dec. 31, 2025, as part of the Kennedy Center’s 2026 Promise of US programming, the public is invited to submit an artistic self-portrait to be part of a virtual wall of faces expressing the myriad diversity of America’s peoples and the promise of America’s future. This ever-expanding mosaic will be featured on the Center’s website and social channels. Read more and submit a portrait at kennedy-center.org/whats-on/festivals-series/promise-of-us/ join-us/portraits.
Go-Kart-Fun at Union Market
In partnership with Events DC, Union Market District is creating a unique go-kart racing experience, powered by the world’s premier go-kart racing operator, K1 Speed. From Sept. 19 to 22, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., each day, and for the first time in DC, the parking lot at the Market will be transformed into an electrifying outdoor racetrack. The weekend will be packed with go-karting excitement for all ages (minimum required height of 58”), from seasoned racers to complete beginners. Each 15-minute race will accommodate six drivers, making every race a thrilling and enjoyable shared experience, perfect for making memories with family and friends. But it’s not just about the speed; groove to live music, enjoy awesome entertainment and dig into a variety of delicious food and beverage from Union Market District’s favorite restaurants.
DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in
DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in the District.
DC Open Doors
DC Open Doors
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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
DC4ME
years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to
DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees.
DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is o ered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.
years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to
DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is o ered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.
COVID-19
DC4ME is offered to current fulltime District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower’s employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.
COVID-19
DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is o ered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.
DC MAP COVID-19 provides nancial assistance to those a ected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quali ed borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage for up to six months.
COVID-19
DC MAP COVID-19 provides nancial assistance to those a ected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quali ed borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage for up to six months.
www.DCHFA.org
DC MAP COVID-19 provides nancial assistance to those a ected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quali ed borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage for up to six months.
how to apply to any of DCHFA’s homeownership programs.
Photo: Nina Ramadan Photography
Second Wind’s New Season, New Songs
The Capitol Hill Chorus, which has been singing together for 15 years, will begin fall rehearsals on Sept. 3. They are presently looking for new voices. Under the direction of Alix Evans, the group is known for its wide-ranging, even adventurous, song selections. Second Wind is a small chorus, some 14 or 15 voices strong and, therefore, always welcomes new members. The group is affiliated with Capitol Hill Arts Workshop, rehearses there every Tuesday from 12:30 to 2 p.m., and will give its end-of-season concert at CHAW on Dec. 14. There are no auditions to join Second Wind and the ability to read music isn’t necessary. Dues of around $200 are assessed each season but no one is ever turned away for inability to pay. The first rehearsal is free. For more information, visit secondwindchorusdc.com, or call Shirley Rosenfeld at 202-544-1646.
CiNoMatic Outdoor Movies Return
The NoMa BID’s outdoor movie series on the lawn of Alethia Tanner Park, 227 Harry Thomas Way NE, returns on Wednesdays, Sept. 18 to Oct. 16, at sunset. The theme of this fall’s CiNoMatic season is Fall in Love. Bring a chair and blanket and get there early to grab your spot on the lawn. Enjoy dinner from a local DC food truck, sit back, and enjoy the show. Sitting just north of New York Ave. NE in Eckington, Alethia Tanner Park features an expansive green lawn and children’s playground, a dedicated dog park, and other great amenities. This park is maintained and programmed by the NoMa BID. nomabid.org.
outstanding local homes, including everything from an 18th century rowhouse to a recently minted houseboat and from brutalist-era townhomes of the 1960s to new glass-walled condominiums. The tour starts at St. Augustine’s Church at the corner of Sixth and Maine streets SW, which will serve as tour headquarters throughout the afternoon. Proceeds from the self-guided walking tour benefit Waterfront Village, an organization which supports older residents of Southwest DC and the Navy Yard. Advance tickets are $20, while same-day tickets are $25. WaterfrontVillageHomeTour.org.
Homes of the Southwest Waterfront Tour
Waterfront Village’s sixth annual Homes of the Southwest Waterfront tour is on Sunday, Oct. 6, from 1 to 5 p.m. Tour-goers are invited to check out some
Eastern Market Metro Park & Barracks Row DC Walking Tour
On Saturday, Sept. 14, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., join the Capitol Hill BID for a fun and informative walking tour starting at the Eastern Market Metro Plaza Park, 701 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Barracks Row, filled with historic sites, charming shops, and delicious eateries. This in-person event is a great way to discover the rich culture and history of this iconic area in Washington, DC. capitolhillbid.org.
BBQ and Barrels at Nat’s Park
On Saturday, Oct. 5, 3 to 6 p.m. (rain or shine), experience the ultimate fu-
NPS Theodore Roosevelt Island Tours
Every Saturday through Oct. 26 at 10:30 a.m., join a ranger or National Park Service volunteer for a 75-minute walk on Theodore Roosevelt Island. You will learn about the conservation legacy of our 26th president, Theodore Roosevelt. You will also learn about the 1st United States Colored Troops who trained on the island during the Civil War and the Mason family who owned the island for more than one hundred years. Theodore Roosevelt Island features areas of marsh and swamp that can be seen from a boardwalk. It also features an upland forest and views of the Lincoln Memorial and Kennedy Center. This free tour meets at the parkway side of the footbridge. No registration required. nps.gov/this.
Hike with your pet and enjoy the beautiful scenery as you learn the history of Theodore Roosevelt Island. Photo: NPS, Kelsey Graczyk
American Democracy: A Great Leap of Faith
What happens when a people decide to govern themselves? America’s national treasures come to life in this compelling exhibition that examines the bold experiment to create a government “of the people, by the people, and for the people.” American Democracy: A Great Leap of Faith at the American History Museum explores the history of citizen participation, debate, and compromise from the nation’s formation to today. Through objects such as Thomas Jefferson’s portable desk, used to draft the Declaration of Independence and the inkstand Lincoln used to draft the Emancipation Proclamation, the exhibition focuses on the changing political ideals and principles of the nation, citizenship in a pluralistic society, and political participation and engagement. americanhistory.si.edu/explore/ exhibitions/american-democracy.
Literary Hill BookFest: Celebrating Books and Authors
The annual Literary Hill BookFest is on Sunday, Oct. 6, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., in the Eastern Market’s North Hall. Meet some of your favorite authors of fiction, history, memoir, poetry, children’s literature, politics, mystery and more. The content available at literaryhillbookfest.org will be updated as they build their roster.
sion of flavors as BBQ and Barrels returns to Nationals Park for its second annual event. Savor the rich and distinctive profiles of American whiskey, rye, and bourbon, featuring selections from Bardstown Bourbon, Virginia Distillery, Uncle Nearest, Kentucky Owl, Buffalo Trace, Blue Run, Found North Whisky, KO Distilling, Walker’s Cay and more. Pair these fine spirits with delectable local BBQ dishes from Rocklands, and Silver Sons Barbecue all while enjoying live music and other festivities. General admission is $75; early entry, $95; non-tasting, $25. All guests must be at least 21. mlb.com/nationals/tickets/events/bbq-barrels.
Capitol Hill Chamber Music Festival: Baroque in Transition
On Sept. 9 at 5:30 p.m.; Sept. 16 at 7:30 p.m.; and Sept. 22 at 7:30 p.m. the Capitol Hill Chamber Music Festival returns to St. Mark’s, 301 A
St. SE, for the first time since the pandemic with three programs illuminate an evolving 17th century musical perspective, especially in Italy and France but throughout Europe against the context of music that came before and after. Suggested donation is $20 or $30; 18 and under are free. All are welcome regardless of donation. chcmf.org/dc.
Arena Stage’s Pay Your Age: An Under 35 Program
Great theater. Great price. Their expanded Pay Your Age tickets are now available for the 35 and under crowd, and just like the name says, your age determines the price. Tickets become available about two months before the show’s first performance. Proof of age for each member of the party will be required at the time of ticket pick-up. Fees are not included in ticket prices. Children under the age of five are not permit-
ted in the theater. Tickets are based on availability. Limit of four per household. Pay Your Age tickets are on sale for Jaja’s African Hair Braiding. Use Promo Code UNDER35 to see what productions are available. arenastage.org.
DC Theatre Week Returns
During Theatre Week, Sept. 26 to Oct. 13, you can get tickets for $20, $40, or $60 to over 30 shows. They’ve got musicals, plays, classics, new work, and more. During Theatre Week, you can immerse yourself in the full world of DC-area theatre. Read more at theatreweek.org.
Volunteer at the H Street Festival
Held on Sept. 21, the H Street Festival, noon to 7 p.m., is located between Third and 15th streets NE. Responsible adults are necessary to be the eyes and ears of the festival. As a volunteer, you are pledging a commitment to be a part of the action and excitement. This includes arriving on time and remaining dedicated to the duration of your selected shift. Currently, opportunities are restricted to individuals above the age of 18. Please note that the service and duration of all present and future volunteers is accepted at the discretion of the H Street Festival Committee. Check this website and keep an eye on social media as youth community service hours may become available. hstreetfestival.org/volunteer.
A Literary Feast
The Literary Feast is a series of dinner parties held at homes across Capitol Hill—all on one evening. Each dinner features food and fun related to a specific book. The Literary Feast is brought to you by the Capitol Hill Community Foundation. The Foundation is a 100% volunteer-driven community organization that supports activities, projects, and groups that enrich the history, diversity, and beauty of the Capitol Hill community. This year’s feast is on Sat., Oct. 19, 6:30 to 9 p.m. You choose your charitable donation level from $100 to $500 per ticket. The entire payment, less $20 per ticket, is tax-deductible. Read more and purchase tickets at aliteraryfeast.org.
Car Free Day in DC
Car Free Day is a free event celebrated internationally every Sept. 23, in which commuters are encouraged to get around without driving alone in cars,
National Apple Harvest Festival
Located in the heart of Pennsylvania Apple country, just north of Gettysburg, the National Apple Harvest Festival celebrates the fall season with beautiful handmade crafts, delicious food, and jam-packed entertainment such as steam engine displays, live music, antique cars, orchard tours, pony rides, and craftsman demonstrations. Oct. 5, 6, 12, and 13; open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. $10 admission; free under twelve. South Mountain Fairgrounds in Biglerville, located nine miles northwest of Gettysburg (use 615 Narrows Road, Biglerville, PA 17307 with your GPS. Narrows Road is also known as PA Route 234). appleharvest.com.
and instead, carpool, vanpool, use public transit, telework, bicycle, walk, or scooter. Car Free Day is open to all residents in the Washington, DC metropolitan region. To participate in this fun and environmentally friendly event, fill out the free pledge form below and go car free or car-lite (carpool, vanpool) on Monday, Sept. 23. Take the pledge, even if you’re already car free. Those who take the free pledge will receive special promotions and be entered into a free raffle for a chance to win great prizes. carfreemetrodc.org.
CHRS House Expo 2024
On Saturday, Oct. 26, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Capitol Hill Restoration
Society will hold a free House Expo in the Eastern Market North Hall, featuring a wide variety of home service exhibitors and representatives of city agencies. You’ll also find experts in related fields, including real estate, finance, insurance, and property management. chrs.org.
AARP Community Health, Wellness and Resource Fair
The Southwest Waterfront AARP’s Annual Community Health, Wellness and Resource Fair is on Wednesday, Sept. 25 (previously announced as Sept. 18), 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at River Park Mutual Homes’ Charles Goodman Common Room,
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 1st Thursday, September 5 at 7:00 p.m.**
Transportation & Public Space Committee meeting 3rd Monday, September 16, 7:00 p.m.
Virtual Meeting via Zoom
Economic Development and Zoning Committee meeting 3rd Wednesday, September 18, 7:00 p.m.
Virtual Meeting via Zoom
Community Outreach Committee meeting 4th Monday, September 23, 7:00 p.m.
We seek community-minded 6A residents interested in joining ANC 6A committees. Visit anc6a.org or email 6A06@anc.dc.gov for more information.
Join us for our Next Virtual Public Meeting Tuesday, September 10, 2024 - 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
How to participate: Advisory Neighborhood Commission 7D “Uniting Communities East and West” Representing the Capitol Hill/Hill East, Eastland Gardens, Kenilworth, Kingman Park, Mayfair, Parkside, River Terrace and Rosedale neighborhoods and the RFK Stadium Complex.
By computer: https://dc-gov.zoom.us/j/9162864
7160?pwd=NVdldTZiRitFODdSUVJZQVBGdHk5UT09
Passcode: anc7d Or by phone: 1-301-715-8592
Webinar ID: 91628647160 Passcode: 776540
Wendell Felder Parkside – 7D03 7d03@anc.dc.gov
Chairperson
Brian Alcorn Capitol Hill/Hill East – 7D08 7d08@anc.dc.gov
Vice Chair
Brett Astmann Rosedale – 7D07 7d07@anc.dc.gov
Treasurer Ashley Schapitl Hill East – 7D09 7d09@anc.dc.gov
Secretary
Siraaj Hasan Eastland Gardens/ 7d01@anc.dc.gov Kenilworth – 7D01
Mike Davis River Terrace – 7D04 7d04@anc.dc.gov
Ebony Payne Kingman Park – 7D05 7d05@anc.dc.gov
Marc Friend Rosedale – 7D06 7d06@anc.dc.gov
Brianne Hill East – 7D10 7d10@anc.dc.gov
Eby-Stockert
Vacancy in Single Member District 7D02
DO YOU LIVE IN THE MAYFAIR COMMUNITY?
We are looking for a Commissioner to serve for 2024!
1311 Delaware Ave. SW. The Fair provides: earing screenings, medical professionals, legal counsel for the elderly with resources and services, Department of Insurance, Securities and banking resources and services, and public service Information. It is open to the entire Washington, DC senior community, their families, friends, and neighbors. Off-street parking is available. The Waterfront Metro on the Green Line is two blocks away. Bus 74 stops in front of the River Park Delaware Avenue Gate. A box lunch will be provided. For further information contact Betty Jean Tolbert Jones, bettyjeantolbertjones@yahoo.com or 202554-0901.
Volunteer at the Atlas
When you volunteer for the Atlas you become a part of the rich history of an historic theater in DC. You also get free admission to Atlas Presents shows. It’s a win-win for everyone. They often need volunteers in the lobby during the annual Intersections Festival or skill
folks to support them in the administrative office. Email Patron Services to discuss future volunteer opportunities at boxoffice@ atlasarts. atlasarts.org/volunteer.
Opioid Overdose Awareness Event
On Wednesday, Sept. 18, 4 to 8 p.m., the h3 Project hosts their annual opioid overdose awareness and prevention event on Columbus Circle in front of Union Station. This event focuses on education and resources relating to opioid overdoses, opioid overdose reversal, and opioid overdose prevention. The h3 Project embraces the spirit of recovery and an attitude of self-directed hope, partnering with each individual to help shape their personal journey and realize their potential. h3projectdc.org.
Family-Friendly Late Skate at Anacostia Park
On the last Saturday of the month, Sept. 28 and Oct. 26 (Halloween
How to Watch Congress in Session
The Visitor Galleries are open when the House of Representatives and the Senate are in session. The galleries are not included on the US Capitol tour. Separate passes are required. House of Representatives Gallery Passes can be requested from the office of your representative. Senate Gallery Passes can be requested from one of your senators’ offices. The passes are not transferable, but they can be reused. The galleries are not open to the public during Joint Sessions or Joint Meetings. Read the instructions on the back of each pass. Enter the House and Senate Galleries from the upper level of the Capitol Visitor Center. Read more at visitthecapitol.gov/visit/know-before-yougo/watching-congress-in-session.
Jarrod Bennett Named New Executive Director of Atlas Performing Arts
Jarrod Bennett’s appointment as Executive Director marks a new chapter for the Atlas. Bennett brings a wealth of experience, innovative ideas, and deep commitment to serving the Washington, DC community. Bennett, who currently serves as Director of Operations at the Atlas, will succeed Douglas Yeuell, who has led the Atlas since 2014. Bennett is a highly skilled arts administrator and musician with more than 20 years of management experience in the military as well as in the public and non-profit sectors. An active singer, Jarrod has been a member of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC since 2009. In 2017, he became Technical Director of GMCW. He joined the Atlas as Director of Operations in 2022.
Late Skate); skate until 10 p.m. and enjoy the featured DJ or band. Events last throughout the day and include double dutch, lawn games, job fairs, boat trips and more. You can alo skate anytime at Anacostia Park Skating Pavilion--the one and only rollerskating rink in the National Park Service. nps.gov/anac.
Visitors in the US House of Representatives Gallery at the Visitors’ Gallery opening in 1920.
Restoration Society September Walking Tours
There is a CHRS Walking Tour of Many Tiny NE Streets (debut) on Saturday, Sept. 21, at 1 p.m. Get some exercise and explore multiple charming one-block long mini-streets sprinkled throughout Capitol Hill. This tour focuses on how and why these streets were developed and their earliest residents. $15. There is also a CHRS One-block Walking Tour of SE Capitol Hill History on Sunday, Sept. 22, at 1 p.m. Learn how this neighborhood developed from the end of the Civil War through the 1920’s on this one-block tour. This tour highlights early transportation, infrastructure, architectural styles and the people who lived on the block. $15. Buy tickets at eventbrite.com.
Southwest Nights at Arena Stage
Arena Stage patrons who live or work in Southwest DC can buy discounted tickets for specially designated Southwest Night performances of each production. Tickets are $36 for musicals and $26 for non-musicals, plus fees. Proof of Southwest DC residency or employment for each member of the party must be presented at the time of ticket pick-up. Tickets are based on availability. Here are the dates through the end of the year: Jaja’s African Hair Braiding; Sept. 10, 7:30 p.m. and Sept. 21, 2 p.m.; The Other Americans; Oct. 24, 8 p.m. and Oct. 27, 2 p.m.; DATA; Nov. 1, 7 p.m. and Nov. 10, 2 p.m.; Death on the Nile, Nov. 30, 2 p.m. and Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m. arenastage.org.
Chiarina’s 10th Season, Celebrations!
Each of Chiarina’s seven concerts this season will celebrate the power of music to
bring us together. Enjoy the engaging artistic voices of today alongside treasured classics of chamber music literature, all from the up-close vantage point of our welcoming neighborhood venue, St. Mark’s, 301 A St. SE. On Saturday, 28, 7:30 p.m., Grammy Award-winning pianist Michelle Cann opens the season as a soloist and chamber musician alongside an all-star cast of string players. Robert Schumann’s resounding Piano Quintet rounds out this celebratory program. General admission is $30 ($35 at door); 18 and under are free. chiarina.org.
Slice of Life Pie Selling Sign-ups are Open
Food & Friends is the only communitybased program that prepares and home delivers nutritious meals and support, free of charge, to individuals living with a serious or chronic illness throughout the Washington, DC region. To sign up to be a Slice of Life Pie seller, click on Seller HQ and Login
at the top of page at sliceoflifedc.org/about-slice-of-life. If you already have an account, reactivate it. If you are a new user, create an account. You can also create or join a team. Recruit your friends, colleagues and family to sign up as sellers as well. Pie sales to the public open on Oct. 1. sliceoflifedc.org.
Fort Dupont Park Summer Concerts
The National Park Service has announced the 2024 schedule for the Fort Dupont Park Summer Event Series. Join them on Saturdays, Sept. 7, Sept. 14 and Sept. 21 at 7 p.m. (gates at 5:30 p.m.) for family-friendly free, live music performances for all ages. Bring lawn chairs, blankets and food. Dogs on a leash are also welcome. Prohibited items are alcoholic beverages or illegal substances, large coolers, glass bottles, grills and open flames and umbrellas. Fort Dupont Park’s amphitheater is at 3600 F St. SE. nps.gov/fodu.
NoMa in Color Mural Festival
The NoMa Business Improvement District has partnered with WMATA Art in Transit & STABLE Arts to present the 2024 NoMa in Color Mural Festival, from Sept. 16 to 23. Make plans to stop along the Metropolitan Branch Trail throughout the week and watch the artists as they bring 16 new works to life. The NoMa in Color Last Dance of Summer Celebration is on Friday, Sept. 20, 4 to 8 p.m. at Alethia Tanner Park, 227 Harry Thomas Way NE. It will mark the end of summer and the start of fall with activations celebrating art in all forms, including a pop-up beer garden, dance and roller skating performances, live music, local maker’s market, hands-on art stations and mural tours. nomabid.com.
Cherry Blossom Festival Attendance Announced
The 2024 National Cherry Blossom Festival drew 1.6 million attendees to Washington, DC and its surrounding areas, eclipsing the pre-pandemic 2019 estimate of 1.5 million attendees. The estimated visitor spending in the District alone totaled $202 million, with the average length of stay being 3.9 days. Notably, 58% of visitors stayed within DC and of those, 77% stayed in hotels. Of those who attended the Festival, 56% were visitors, while 44% were DC-area residents. Of the visitors, 83% came from the United States and 17% from international destinations. In addition, nearly half of attendees used Metro for transportation. Nationalcherryblossomfestival.org.
Donate Your Old Golf Clubs
First Tee-GWDC is always seeking golf equipment donations, especially for junior golfers aged seven to twelve years old. All golf equipment donations should be no more than 10 years old, in good condition and not have been altered. They accept golf
211 10th St. SE.
DC PARK(ing) Day 2024
DC PARK(ing) Day returns on Friday, Sept. 20, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. This annual event is an opportunity for District residents and businesses to display their creativity, building a pop-up park in curbside parking spaces throughout the District. Initially started in San Francisco in 2005, PARK(ing) Day is an event in which residents, businesses, and community organizations rethink the use of public space by converting metered on-street parking spaces into temporary parks. Since its inception, the event has spread to cities around the world. Read more at public-space-activation-dcgis.hub.arcgis. com/pages/parking-day.
clubs, golf bags, golf accessories, clean loose golf balls, divot repair tools, tees and ball markers, apparel (must be clean and neatly packed) and shoes (must be boxed). To make a donation drop-o appointment, contact Dolly Davis at dolly@ rstteedc.org. Donation drop o dates are by appointment only. Donation center is at East Potomac Golf Links, Hains Point, 972 Ohio Dr. SW. At First Tee, kids and teens are learning life lessons and leadership skills through the game of golf. rstteedc.org/get-involved-2.
Reach for the Stars 5k: Latinas Leading Tomorrow
This is a family-friendly run/walk 5k on Saturday, Sept. 21. All proceeds go towards Latinas Leading Tomorrow (LLT), a 501c3 nonpro t. LLT provides programming to Latina middle and high school students in three key areas: CORE (Creating Opportunities to Reach ExSchool Academy (Exemplifying Leadership in a Team Environment), and Latina Labs. Additionally, programming now extends to Latina students across Northern Virginia, MD, and DC. Here’s the schedule: check-in and prerace activities, 8 to 8:30 a.m.; warm up, 8:30 a.m.; start of race, 9 a.m.; post-race party, 10:30 a.m. $45 for adults; ages 13 to 17, $15; free for kids 12 and under. Prices increase after Sept. 15. The event starts at Hains Point, 972 Ohio Dr. SW. runsignup.com/Race/DC/Washington/ReachtheStarsforLLT5KRunWalk.
Neighborhood Legal Services: Jazz for Justice
This year, the Neighborhood Legal Services Program celebrates 60 years of providing free civil legal services to DC’s most vulnerable individuals and families. Join them on Tuesday, Oct. 1, 9 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.) for Jazz for Justice 2024 at the Intercontinental Washington DC-The Wharf, 801 Wharf St. SW, where they present Karen M. Hardwick, Senior Vice President & General Counsel at WGL Holdings, Inc., and Washington Gas Light Company, with their prestigious Leader of Justice Award. To learn more about the event and purchase tickets and/or donate, visit nlsp.org/donate/jazz-for-justice-2024.
Do You have a Notice for Bulletin Board? The Hill Rag Bulletin Board includes event notices, volunteer opportunities and other community news. If you have a notice send it to bulletinboard@hillrag.com. ◆
ARTS& DINING
Theater Night A Curated Preview of Theater in the DMV
by Matthew McClure
Nobody said it better than Smokey Robinson and The Miracles. Women really do make the world go ‘round, so this month’s column previews theater that tells the stories of strong, independent women who have and continue to craft lasting legacies. We’ve also included a roundup of DC Theatre Week, running from September 26 to October 13, in case you needed a reminder of why you absolutely shouldn’t miss this performing arts extravaganza (discounted tickets, anyone?). See you there!
On Right Now
Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, Mosaic Theater Company Showing Sep 5 – Oct 6 www.mosaictheater.org
Step back to March of 1959 and watch in awe as the iconic Billie Holiday – known as Lady Day – once again takes to the stage to wrap her sweet, smoldering voice around you like a loving embrace.
This journey to the past is courtesy of Mosaic Theater Company’s Reginald L. Douglas, who is directing Lanie Robertson’s Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill in partnership with Washington Performing Arts. Robertson’s play opened in Atlanta, GA in 1986 and is an intimate portrayal of the life of the imitable Billie Holiday as told through a repertoire of her most popular songs. This legendary jazz singer with an unmatched vocal range is being given soul again by DC’s equally legendary Roz White in a theater at the Atlas Performing Arts Center that’s been cleverly disguised as a smoky jazz bar in Philadelphia.
digging into the parts of myself that are very similar. I’ve studied the great ladies of Jazz, Blues and Soul my entire life. Billy Holiday is another legend that I’ve been celebrating. I’ve been connected to her forever.”
ed to cook, and she wanted kids. She gets to tell those stories and gets to be human. I’m not trying to do an impersonation of Billie Holiday. What we’re doing is celebrating the light that she brought into the world with her music.”
Robertson’s musical selections cover the full range of Holiday’s inspirations, from Bessie Smith (Gimme a Pigfoot and a Bottle of Beer) to Abel Meeropol’s hauntingly evocative Strange Fruit. While Holiday’s career peak predated the onset of the Civil Rights movement, her determination to perform only on her terms and craft her own sound were the seeds of a larger agitation against disenfranchisement. “I believe Strange Fruit was the beginning of art as activism.” White agrees. “Actually singing a song in protest.”
Something to look forward to will be the chemistry between White and her band members, specifically William Knowles (on piano) and Greg Holloway (on drums and percussion), both of whom she’s worked with for over 25 years. White’s synchronicity with her musicians mirrors that of Holiday and the men she performed with on stages from Café Society to Carnegie Hall.
“William called me a bourbon drinking, trash talking jazz musician in rehearsal and I was like, yes! That’s it!” White laughs. “It’s going to feel like family up on that stage.”
White, who has several Helen Hayes Awards in recognition of her outstanding contribution to music and theater in DC, has always felt a special connection to Holiday. “The preparation for me is
Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill takes place in the twilight years of Holiday’s career -when the ravages of drugs, alcohol and sporadic bouts of imprisonment began to take their toll on the singer’s body and voice. But White is adamant that her rendition of Holiday is a tribute to the songstresses’ passions and dreams on and off the stage, rather than a story about substance abuse. “The preparation has been to remove any negative connotations. Life is life. What we may not know is that she want-
In the Spotlight Theatre Week
From September 26 to October 13, DC audiences will be immersed in the plethora of award-winning creativity that embodies theater in our city. Theatre Week is Theatre Washington’s annual homage to the city’s creative stage family, where you’ll be able to chat to playwrights, actors, directors, producers, and theater experts while walking, biking
Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill: Roz White as Billie Holiday.
Photo: Chris Banks.
or bussing DC’s many stages.
Amy Austin, CEO and President of Theatre Washington, says Theatre Week is all about celebrating the city’s theater community. “There’s so much collaboration that happens.” Austin says. “Between artists, designers. It’s very close knit in many ways and that allows for conversations that connect them. We think of Theater Week as a time of exploring and discovery. We create events that get people out and thinking about theater. You’re able to learn more about the community and who’s in it.”
One of the purposes of Theater Week, Austin points out, is to cover the broad range of stage experiences possible in DC, from Woolly Mammoth’s gritty experimental shows to Arena Stage’s big-ticket pageants. ”The variety of theater that we have and the diversity of voices is what Theater Week brings to the surface.” Austin’s top recommendations for DC Theatre Week? “It’s so hard to pick out particular productions, because I want people to pick out what speaks to them. What kind of theatre do you want to see? There are lots of great productions coming. There are over 30 to choose from!”
Don’t miss:
The City on the River Concert, Sunday, September 22 at 2 p.m. at The Wharf in SW DC
This event is totally free but does require registration. You’ll be able to experience the talents of 15 of DC’s superstar performers for 90 minutes up close and personal, and Melani N. Douglass—a DC based artist, curator, thinker and leader—will
ARTS&DINING
exhibit an installation and facilitate intimate community conversations focused on the impact of theater.
The Theatre Week Kickoff Fest, Saturday, September 28 from 1 to 5 p.m at Arena Stage (1101 6th St SW). Not only will you get to have conversations with theater makers from over 40 DC theaters, but you’ll also get to witness John Johnson’s Playback Interactive Theatre, where Johnson and his performers will enact community stories gathered during the event and “play them back” to audiences. There’s no charge to attend this event but you’ll need to register to attend.
To register for tickets and learn more about DC Theatre Week’s full schedule including bike and walking tours of DC theaters, visit www.theatreweek.org.
Jaja’s African Hair Braiding is open for business! Ghanian-American playwright Jocelyn Bioh’s play about a group of close-knit West African immigrant women sharing secrets, laughs, hopes and aspirations within the sanctified space of Jaja’s hair salon in Harlem premiered at the Manhattan Theatre Club last year and will feature Victoire Charles as Jaja for its Arena Stage debut.
Charles is from Queens and understudied the role of Jaja during the Broadway run. She feels a deep affinity with this tale of strong women fighting for accep-
tance, respect, recognition, and independence. “Our first rehearsal was a day of beautiful tears.” She confides. “The connection we have to these characters and the connection we have to Jocelyn; she’s a force beyond.” Bioh’s play spotlights the hallowed ground of hair salons that you’d recognize from the streets of Lagos to the alleys of Harlem.
As a first-generation American citizen born of Haitian parents who immigrated to New York in the 1960s, Charles resonates with the undercurrent of identity politics that forms part of the play’s narrative. She’s also aware of the life-changing power of being able to see a story you identify with up on stage. “The stars of the show are these women that Jaja has wrangled together to make this prosperous business. She knows their hopes and dreams and let downs. You’re going to see everyone’s American Dream unfold. All the things they left behind and the things they’re hoping for in the future.”
The relatability of Jaja’s African Hair Braiding, as Charles says, is being able to see the sacrifices that people make for those they love to build a legacy that outlasts themselves. And that’s a story that everyone can identify with. u
Victoire Charles plays Jaja in Jaja’s African Hair Braiding.
DC Theatre Week: Amy Austin, CEO and President of Theatre Washington.
Capitol Cuisine
by Celeste McCall
As “o cial” summer draws to a close, the local restaurant scene is still simmering.
New in the Atlas District: Providencia, 1321 Linden Court NE, in an alley just o the H street corridor. The hip, shoebox-size newcomer is the creation of chef Erik Bruner-Yang and bartenders Pedro Tobar and Daniel Gonzalez, whom you might recognize from nearby Maketto’s. Shoehorned into a former ower shop, Providencia squeezes in about 25 patrons on high tops and benches. Inspired by the partners’ childhood memories of Taiwan and El Salvador, the eclectic menu showcases “small plates” like avocado and caviar on chicharrónes, spicy eel and scallion salad, and “rotating” tamales. Jazzy cocktails like Café de Olla (rum, coffee, sesame horchata and Cumbre del Volcan (mezcal, Campari, mint). Beer and wine also complement the cuisine.
Peter and I checked out Providencia on a rainy August evening. This place is narrow, loud and very dark. We were ushered upstairs, where we sat on a bench by a small, glass-topped café table. Using my phone flashlight to read the menu, I ordered a glass of pleasant Syrah Grenache. Then Peter chose pan de playa—a “beach sandwich” stu ed with Maryland crabmeat. I opted for Ensalada de Anguilla (spicy eel salad with scallions and hot peppers). Both dishes were well seasoned and generous. “Such good food deserves a more comfortable and larger setting,” said Peter as he dug into the eel. The slippery creatures once swam in the Maine Atlantic, Chef Bruner-Yang told us,
adding that the blue crab hails from Maryland. “I wanted to make fun, delicious food that is not fussy,” he added Alas, we did not make it to chef Paola Velez’s grand nale, baked Alaska Minuta. When did you last see Baked Alaska on a menu? However, this version is made with shaved ice, matcha cream and coconut. Next time. Dinner for two came to $80.60 including the 20 percent service charge. Service, provided by Bryan, was excellent. For now, Providencia is open Tuesday through Saturday from 5 p.m. ‘til midnight. They don’t take reservations, so it’s rst come rst served. Get there early. No website yet.
Market Watch
You don’t have to drive all the way to Baltimore or Annapolis to enjoy a good crabcake. One of the best in the area can be found at Market Lunch, the popular eatery in the north end of Eastern Market. Priced at $18plus, This is a real bargain. (Many restaurants’ crabcakes these days cost more than $30.) Market Lunch’s sandwich has chunks of lump crab meat with little lling. The
Inside Eastern Market, Market Lunch’s crabcakes are among the area’s best bargains.
Providencia owners Pedro Tobar (left) and Daniel Gonzales (right).
Providencia, a matchbox-sized night spot in an alley off H Street NE, boasts a lively bar scene. Photo: Vina Sananikone/Providencia
sandwich is served with tangy coleslaw and tartar sauce.
Getting Fishy at the Wharf
Meanwhile, things are getting fishy at the bustling District Wharf. Several new restaurants are due to join the lineup: Fish Shop by Artfarm, 610 Wharf St. SW, on the ground floor of the Atlantic Building next to Politics and Prose. Based in Ballater, Scotland, this import is still under construction. The spacious restaurant will seat 300, according to the Business Journal. The menu will tap fresh, sustainable seafoods pulled from the icy waters of the north. Expect creations like yellowtail & tuna sashimi, oysters on the half shell, cioppino, lobster, salmon filet. Carnivore fare might include petit filet mignon, New York strip steak and even game dishes.
Weekday Brunch
Makers Union Pub, at 664 Maine Ave. SW, has an appealing décor that includes wall shelves partially filled with cookbooks. Makers Union serves brunch Monday through Friday, not just on weekends. The brunch menu includes deviled eggs, Breakfast Nachos, a
standard full breakfast, chicken and waffles and French toast among other offerings. For Makers Union hours and more information visit www.makersunionpub.com.
Coming Soon…
DC Falafel, 1123 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, next to Frager’s Hardware. Besides the popular Middle Eastern staple, the future eatery will offer wraps, pastries, hummus, salads, boba tea and more. Watch for updates.
Welcome Back
Barracks Row welcomes the return of As You Are, 500 Eighth St. SE. The LGBTQ+ friendly restaurant/ watering hole had been shuttered for several weeks while undergoing repairs. For more information visit www.asyouaredc.com.
Gone
Meanwhile, on Capitol Hill, we noted last month the loss of two restaurants: Boxcar Tavern, 227 Seventh St. SE (near Eastern Market) and Ophelia’s Fish House, 501 Eighth St. SE on Barracks Row. We will miss them both, especially Ophelia’s plump and savory crabcakes. Both enterprises were part of Hill Restaurant Group, which still operates the Hawk ‘n’ Dove, Hill East Burger (Pennsylvania Ave. SE) and Lola’s on Barracks Row. Also on Barracks Row, 7-Eleven, where we often purchased ice, has also departed. u
UPCOMING PROGRAMS
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Fall Exhibitions 2024: African American Fiber Art Guild and Larry O’Reilly Opening Reception Wednesday, September 25, 6:30pm Family Day 2024! Sunday, September 29, 2:00pm-6:00pm
STUDIO ARTS
Basic Drawing Techniques Course: Drawing From an Image Classes begin Tuesday, September 3, 6:30pm-8:00pm Local Makers Workshop: Polymer Clay Earrings with Fresh Pear Jewelry Sunday, September 8, 1:00pm-4:00pm Introduction to Linocut Printmaking Course Classes begin Monday, September 9, 6:30pm-8:00pm Contemporary Watercolors Workshop Saturday, September 28, 12:00pm-2:00pm Introduction to Linocut Printmaking Workshop Saturday, September 28, 2:30pm-5:00pm
CONCERTS
American Roots Concert Series: Jourdan Thibodeaux with Cedric Watson and Joel Savoy Sunday, September 8, 4:30pm Stone Room Concerts at Hill Center Featuring Alt-Americana Duo Barnaby Bright Thursday, September 12, 7:00pm Afro Beat, Rap, Jazz, Hip-Hop, & Pop with Collective KINFOLKANDTHEM and Budding Boston R&B Star Heyssis in Concert Thursday, September 19, 7:00pm
American Roots Concert Series: Alexa Rose Sunday, September 22, 4:30pm Global Sounds on the Hill featuring Zedashe: Polyphonic Choir and Folk Dancers from Caucasus Georgia Friday, September 27, 7:00pm FILMS AND PERFORMANCES Epidemics on Film: The Past is the Future
Tuesday, September 24, 6:00pm
COOKING CLASSES & TASTINGS
Brazilian Flavors with Marianne Tshihamba
Saturday, September 7, 11:00am
Kitchen 101: Knife Skills with Chef Wendi James
Tuesday, September 10, 6:00pm
Mother Sauces with Chef Wendi James Series begins Monday, September 16, 6:00pm Congo Cravings: Chicken Mwamba, Sweet Plantains and Fufu
Tuesday, September 17, 6:00pm Tiny Cooking School featuring Magpie and the Tiger Chefs Caleb Jang and Roren Choi: Mastering the Fundamentals of Korean Cooking Series begins Friday, September 20, 11:00am A Trip to Morocco: Chicken with Preserved Lemons, Carrot Salad, and Mint Tea
Saturday, September 21, 6:00pm On the Noodle Road with Jen Lin-Liu: The Terrific World of Tofu
Sunday, September 22, 11:00am
Kitchen 101: Knife Skills with Chef Wendi James
Tuesday, September 24, 6:00pm Programmatic support provided by the Capitol Hill Community Foundation and the DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities.
At the Wharf, Makers Union boasts a welcoming vibe with comfy banquettes and bookcases.
DC Arts Center
Sally Veach and Jeffrey Berg “Here and Where?”
Though September 22 www.dcartscenter.org
DC Arts Center presents “Here and Where?”, a compelling duo exhibition by artists Sally Veach and Jeffrey Berg, curated by Milan Warner. This exhibition contrasts the internal landscapes of human experience with the external forces of nature, offering a rich dialogue between two distinct artistic perspectives.
Jeffrey Berg’s work delves into the personal, exploring how individual histories, memories, and dreams intertwine with our broader community connections. Through his intricate drawings, Berg invites viewers to reflect on the internal narratives that shape our collective experience. His exploration of character and connection brings a profound sense of intimacy, urging us to consider how our inner worlds resonate with the external environments we navigate.
In contrast, Sally Veach’s work turns outward,
Art and the City
by Phil Hutinet
examining the human desire to control and domesticate the natural world. Her gestural landscapes, juxtaposed with hard-edged symbols, reflect the tension between nature’s inherent beauty and the often-destructive forces of capitalism. Veach’s paintings, rich with movement and emotion, capture the struggle between preservation and exploitation, reminding us of the delicate balance that must be maintained.
“Here and Where?” is a conversation between two artists whose work challenges us to consider the spaces we inhabit, both within ourselves and in the world around us. This exhibition is a must-see for those interested in the intersections of art, nature, and human experience. 2438 18th Street NW, Washington, DC. Gallery Hours: Wednesday - Sunday: 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM. (202) 462-7833
gallery neptune and brown
Diane Szczepaniak “Meditations on Color and Light”
Through October 19 www.galleryneptunebrown.com
Diane Szczepaniak’s latest solo exhibition invites viewers into a world where color, light, and space converge to explore the deeper connections between the seen and unseen, the material and the spiritual. Known for her meticulous layering technique, Szczepaniak’s works radiate a luminous depth, transforming the canvas into a vibrant, seemingly living entity.
Szczepaniak’s paintings echo the spiritual
and spatial explorations of Post-War abstract artists like Barnett Newman and Agnes Martin. Her “Dwelling” series, inspired by the natural intersections of sky, land, and sea during a visit to Melbourne, Australia, highlights her minimalist approach. These large-scale, “L”-shaped color field paintings pulse with life, as if they are breathing and expanding before the viewer’s eyes. Art historian Alice Gauvin aptly describes this phenomenon, noting how Szczepaniak’s deep understanding of space animates her work, creating an almost performative experience.
A blend of artistic and philosophical influences, from Paul Klee to Taoism, underpins Szczepaniak’s practice. Her path from an economics degree
DC Arts Center (DCAC) – Sally Veach, “human Nature 18”, oil on linen mounted on wood panel, 25” x 15”, 2024
gallery neptune and brown – Diane Szczepaniak, “Untitled”, c. 2010. Watercolor on paper. 46 x 39 inches
to becoming an artist is as layered as her work. After discovering her passion for art during a transformative European tour, she studied under sculptor Michael Skop and furthered her education, earning a BFA in sculpture and drawing, followed by an MA. Szczepaniak’s work, which has been exhibited nationally and is part of esteemed collections, continues to inspire and resonate. 1530 14th St NW, Washington, DC. Gallery hours: WednesdaySaturday, from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and by appointment. (202) 986-1200.
Honfleur Gallery
Rik Freeman “Black Beaches During Segregation” Through September 28 www.hon eurgallerydc.com
Hon eur Gallery’s current exhibition “Black Beaches During Segregation,” is a powerful series of oil paintings by award-winning DC muralist Rik Freeman. This exhibit, part of the gallery’s Artist in Residency Program, delves into the history of Black-owned beaches along the Atlantic seaboard during the era of segregation. Freeman’s work sheds light on
how these beaches, born from the oppressive “Jim Crow” laws meant to diminish Black humanity, instead became vibrant spaces of joy, community, and resilience.
Freeman’s series highlights six beaches, from Oak Blu s in Massachusetts to American Beach in Florida, ve of which remain primarily Black-owned to this day. Each painting captures the unique spirit and history of these places, while also emphasizing the shared experiences of fellowship and resistance. Freeman’s compositions focus on the interactions of the beachgoers, drawing the viewer into moments of communal strength and celebration.
Born in Athens, Georgia, in 1956, Freeman has been a prominent artist and muralist in Washington, DC since 1989. Known for his public commissions like “Ode to Barry Farms” and “KNOWLEDGE,” Freeman also has an extensive history of exhibiting his canvases. His works have been featured in various group shows at institutions including the Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum and Hill Center. 1241 Marion Barry Ave SE, Washington, DC. Gallery Hours: Thursday-
Honfleur Gallery – Rik Freeman “Mavynee’s Aria”. Image courtesy of the artist.
Saturday from noon to 5 pm or by appointment. (202) 631-6291.
National Portrait Gallery
“Brilliant Exiles: American Women in Paris, 1900-1939” Through February 23, 2025 npg.si.edu
age, an African American sculptor who fought against formidable racial and gender barriers to achieve recognition in her eld.
“Brilliant Exiles” is a celebration of the resilience, creativity, and courage of women who, through their art and lives, rede ned what it meant to be a woman and an artist in the early 20th century. Eighth and G streets NW. Hours Open 7 days a week 11:30 a.m.–7:00 p.m. Closed Dec. 25. (202) 633-1000.
The Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery’s “Brilliant Exiles: American Women in Paris, 1900-1939,” o ers an extraordinary glimpse into the lives of American women who ed the constraints of early 20th-century America for the creative freedom of Paris. Curated by Robyn Asleson, this exhibition brings together portraits of 60 women who sought to rede ne themselves and their art in a city that welcomed and nourished their ambitions.
These women, many of whom came from privileged backgrounds, were driven to break free from the rigid societal expectations of American society. Paris became a sanctuary where they could explore and express their creativity in painting, literature, photography and sexuality. The exhibition highlights how these women formed close-knit communities, supporting one another while also challenging the norms of their time.
Among the standout works on view is Edward Steichen’s “In Exaltation of Flowers,” a series of mural panels that capture the essence of these women in vibrant, oral clothing. Also featured is Carl Van Vechten’s striking portrait of Augusta Sav-
Phil Hutinet is the founding publisher of East City Art, DC’s visual art journal of record. For more information visit
National Portrait Gallery – Katharine Nash Rhoades, Artist: Alfred Stieglitz, Waxed platinum print, June 6, 1915. National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution; gift of Elizabeth Rhoades Reynolds
Featuring:
SUNDAY OCT. 6 11AM-3PM
Author talks & panel discussions, Children’sCornerwith story times & family activities
Exhibitors including – East City Bookshop, The Writer’s Center, Poet Lore, Capitol Hill Books, Stirred Stories, Platypus Media/ Science Naturally!, and others.
Marie Arana
Canden Arciniega
Louis Bayard
Amanda Becker
I. S. Berry
Kaitlin Calogera
Austin S. Camacho
Sanaa B. Chege
John Cochran
Susan Coll
Buck Downs
James Grady
Rebecca Grawl
Donna Hemans
JoAnn Hill
Hena Khan
Neil King Jr.
Liz Kleinrock
John Lawson III
Dwayne Lawson-Brown
Gregory Luce
Tania James
K.T. Nguyen
Frances Park
Ginger Park
Stephen T. Person
POETS’ CORNER @ TUNNICLIFF’S
3PM on the patio at Tunnicliff’s Tavern across from Eastern Market
Readings by noted local poets followed by open-mic poetry readings
(sign up at the poetry table at the BookFest or, after 3pm, at Tunnicliff’s)
Christine Platt
Caroline Kusin Pritchard
Philip Reari
Rebecca Boggs Roberts
Gina Schaefer
Stephen Spotswood
Georgina Warren
C.K. Westbrook
Lauri Williamson and more!
the LITERARY HILL
A Compendium of Readers, Writers, Books, & Events
The 2024 Literary Hill BookFest and Terrific Fall Releases
The 2024 Literary Hill BookFest
“Celebrating books and authors on the Hill,” this year’s BookFest returns to Eastern Market on Sunday, October 6, from 11am to 3pm. I interviewed Liz Cogan, president of Literary Hill BookFest Board, about this year’s event.
HillRag: Can you share with us a bit of the history of this homegrown, neighborhood event?
Liz Cogan: The Literary Hill BookFest turned Karen Lyon’s long-running column in the Hill Rag, the Literary Hill, into an annual showcase for Capitol Hill literacy, culture and the humanities. Each month, Karen reviewed books by authors who either lived on, wrote about, or had another strong connection to Capitol Hill. Fans of the Literary Hill eventually convinced her to launch a live celebration featuring these accomplished authors—alongside Hillbased libraries, booksellers, publishers, and other literary groups—and in 2011 the Literary Hill BookFest was born.
by Michelle LaFrance
Since then, the BookFest has become a beloved annual event with a “home” in the North Hall of D.C.’s historic Eastern Market, featuring author talks, panel discussions, children’s activities, and a popular poetry open mic on the patio at Tunnicliff’s Tavern after the main event. During the pandemic, we ran the BookFest virtually, complete with panel discussions, writing workshops, a children’s segment, and the poetry open mic. It’s hard to imagine now, but we ran a couple of brief dress rehearsals, just so our authors felt completely comfortable with Zoom!
HR: What will readers find at this year’s BookFest?
LC: Readers will find just about anything that suits their literary taste—from historical fiction, poetry and memoir to spy thrillers, travel, politics, history and more. And they’ll have the opportunity to meet and mingle with the authors of this eclectic mix of genres. We work very hard to bring a diverse group of writers to the BookFest, all of whom are excited to meet their readers face-to-face. We’ll have panel discussions on of-the-moment topics, a full slate of family-friendly activities in our bustling Children’s Corner, book giveaways, and an open mic, where established and first-time poets will present their work to an enthusiastic crowd.
HR: What is your favorite thing about being involved in the event’s production?
LC: I’m very proud that we’re an accessible, down-toearth book festival that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still delivers a delightful literary experience to the community every year. We feature as talented a roster of authors as you’ll find anywhere, and they’re literally hanging out for half the day, chatting with each other and their fans about anything from their former career as a spy to their backyard bee colony. I’m also very proud that we’re able to showcase established literary luminaries—whose work is published by a Big Five publisher—alongside rising stars and first-time self-published authors. All our authors’ stories have value, and I love that we use our platform to bring these stories to the public every year, free of charge.
Be sure to check https://www.literaryhillbookfest.org/ for updated information about authors and panels. The Book-
Fest is supported by Capital Community News (publisher of the Hill Rag)l Rag, Capitol Hill Community Foundation, Tom Faison, Jake Anderson, and the Jason Martin Group.
June Reviews
The Wildes: A Novel in Five Acts
Louis Bayard’s latest is as engrossingly page-turning as readers have come to expect from one of Capitol Hill’s most beloved writers. In a letter to readers upon the release of the book, Bayard noted that many people are surprised to hear that Oscar Wilde had a wife. The book brings Wilde’s wife, Constance, his sons, Cyril and Vyvyan, as well as the playwright’s inimitable
Poet Natasha Sajé speaks to young readers at Literary Hill Bookfest, the annual celebration of the literary culture of Capitol Hill held in the North Hall of Eastern Market (225 Seventh St. SE). Photo: E.O’Gorek/CCN
The Wildes: A Novel in Five Acts.
Photo: Louis Bayard
mother, Lady Wilde, and lover, Lord Alfred Douglas into full flesh as they suffer the heartrending consequences of Wilde’s scandal. The Wildes is a must-read for fans of Wilde, historical fiction, and Bayard alike.
Breaking into Sunlight
Named one of the ten best debuts for kids of the sum-
mer by The American Booksellers Association, John Cochran’s sensitive story finds twelve-year old Reese’s life upended when his father overdoses and his mother relocates them to a trailer on rural property. Reese must learn how to negotiate the complex emotions of caring deeply for an addict. As Reese adapts to life on the farm, he makes two new friends, finding resilience and connection as they explore the local wilderness together. Cochran formerly wrote for Congressional Quarterly in D.C., where he received the Everett McKinley Dirksen Award from the National Press Foundation. Cochran lives in Capitol Hill.
American Diplomacy’s Public Dimension
How has US diplomacy influenced the world? Bruce Gregory’s book reveals the hidden story of the people who have shaped America’s global negotiations. Spanning the early days of European colonization to social media, this history explores how American diplomats, broadcasters, soldiers, and citizen-organizers have influenced US interactions with other nations. Gregory shows how diplomacy has driven American foreign policy for centuries, delving into key historical moments, analyzing strategy, and examining the cultural factors that shaped America’s global relationships. Gregory is a long-time resident of Capitol Hill.
MidnightRose: Reading Series
September 14, from 2 to 4pm, at the Tenley Library Revel in two hours of the poetry and prose of writers who are activists. Readings by: Poet Ethelbert Miller is an award-winning author of two memoirs and several poetry collections. Poet Naomi Ayala has authored three poetry collections and is a DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities Fellow. Poet and writer Brian Gilmore is the author of four collections of poetry and a 2020 Michigan Notable Book Award Recipient. More information: midnightrosereadingseries@gmail.com
Michelle LaFrance is Associate Professor of English at George Mason University. She blogs about writing, her upcoming writing classes, and writing retreats at writinglostriver.org. u
Poetic Hill
Chris Biles
by Sandra Beasley
Chris Biles currently lives in Northwest and works in Southwest DC. In her work, she enjoys playing with the light and the dark, and losing herself in music, visual art, the everyday, the city streets, and anything in the natural world. She is grateful for the DC writing community, including Day Eight, The Inner Loop, and the Pride Poetry crew. Chris was a finalist in the 2022 and 2023 DC Poet Project, was honored by the Monologues and Poetry Int’l Film Festival with an official selection in 2021, and is published in a number of literary magazines, journals, and anthologies in print and online. You can find her at marks-in-the-sand.com / Instagram: @marks. in.the.sand / out walking the streets.
SPIDER WEB AFTER RAIN
Glowing pearls strung on silver strings of sunlight I picture them wrapping the wrists and necks of royalty at banquet at ball matching the sticky warmth of candelabra
But instead they are simply the home of the tiny eight-legged and this minimalist castle between the branches will soon hold dinner beside its crown jewels
And after the feast in those temporary grand halls of grace the architect will move on in search of another set of branches to build the next royal aerial realm of sunlit threads
Sandra Beasley is the curator of “Poetic Hill,” a resident of Southwest, and the author of four poetry collections. If you live in D.C. and you’re interested in being featured, you can reach her at sandrabeasley@earthlink.net for questions and submissions (1-5 poems). u
Breaking into Sunlight.
Photo: John Cochran
American Diplomacy’s Public Dimension: Practitioners as Change Agents in Foreign Relations.
Photo: Bruce Gregory
Celebrating Juneteenth at the Equal Justice Initiative
A Once-in a Lifetime Learning Experience
photos and Article by Pattie Cinelli
As I walked through the Freedom Monument Sculpture Park gazing at beautiful sculptures that depict more than 400 years of the most horrendous human injustices practiced in US history, I was in awe. Before me was stunning art that told the poignant and horrific story of more than 10 million enslaved Black peo-
ple in America. Here was a place where they were not only mourned, but also honored for persevering, for hoping and for loving in the midst of struggle. I was in Montgomery, Alabama with 1200 people from around the world to dedicate the 17-acre park that is the third Legacy site of the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI), a criminal justice reform and racial justice nonprofit.
The Park sits on the banks of the Alabama River and is flanked by the Montgomery train station where enslaved people arrived to be sold and put into enforced labor throughout the south. As I slowly walked through the Park, a train whistle filled the heavy hot air and I thought of how humans were transported in those trains as inhumanely as enslavers treat livestock. The Park is the third in the family of sites created by EJI “where art is a portal through which visitors can see, contemplate and begin to understand the history of Black trauma in the United States,” stated The Miami Herald.
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d ever visit Montgomery, Alabama. I grew up outside of Manhattan where racism was far more subtle. But here I was at the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI). It came about through a chance meeting with musician Christy Taylor, the sister of Bryan Stevenson, the lawyer and justice advocate who founded the EJI. When she shared that she was traveling to Montgomery in June for the dedication of the latest EJI site, Freedom Monument Sculpture Park, about 70 of us Delawareans jumped on board.
Bryan Stevenson and EJI
Soon after I moved from the Hill to Lewes, Delaware, I saw the biographical legal drama Just Mercy starring Michael B. Jordan as Bryan Stevenson. Based on the book of the same name, the movie explores the work of young defense attorney Stevenson who, after graduating from Harvard Law School, chose to represent poor people on death row in the South.
Stevenson founded EJI in 1989 to provide legal representation to peo-
Panoramic view of the Freedom Monument Sculpture Park. In the foreground is Raise Up, a sculpture by Hank Willis Thomas.
One of the pieces in the new sculpture park is the 2019 bronze piece Brick House, by Simone Leigh.
ple illegally convicted, unfairly sentenced or abused in state jails or prisons. He and his team have freed or lessened the sentences of more than 140 incarcerated people on death row. In 2018, on the site of a cotton warehouse where enslaved Black people were forced to labor in bondage, EJI opened the Legacy Museum, which offers a powerful, immersive journey through America’s history of racial injustice.
The Legacy Museum
I assumed visiting the Legacy sites would be as upsetting as going to the
Holocaust Museum. I couldn’t have been more wrong. “The legacy of slavery empowers you, not diminishes you,” said Stevenson. He said he wanted to create space in America that honors those who were enslaved during the 400 years of slavery in America. Stevenson chose to build EJI in Montgomery which was the capital of the domestic slave trade in Alabama. “…There’s something important about the authenticity of space,” said Stevenson. “If it’s going to be a pilgrimage, then you may have to leave Manhattan, you may have to leave DC and go into the region of the country where this history was so resonant. This was the heart. When Reconstruction collapsed, this was the area where terror and violence was so pervasive in the black belt of this country.”
The Legacy Museum was the most difficult for me to absorb; it is graphic, realistic and incredibly disturbing. It documents the tragic false narrative of racial difference that was created in America and which has resulted in centuries of racial bigotry and injustice. As it is described in its brochure: “The belief in racial hierarchy was used to legitimate, perpetuate and defend slavery. It survived slavery’s abolition,
fueling racial terror, lynchings, demanding legally codified segregation and spawning our contemporary mass incarceration crisis. The Museum traces the evolution of this dehumanizing myth from our nation’s founding to today.”
Juneteenth Celebration at EJI
Included in the Juneteenth celebration week was a day of panel presentations by Wynton Marsalis, Stevenson’s long-time friend. “I am so uplifted and inspired by Bryan,” he said, and told how when purchasing the initial site, Stevenson had to use cash because securing a loan would mean having to disclose his purpose for the property. Another panel member Darren Walker, president of the Ford Foundation. “Bryan brought his own perspective to a position of power which a lot of people don’t do because they lack courage,” said Walker. “Philanthropy is great, but it’s economic injustice that makes philanthropy necessary.”
Panelist Anthony McGill, first clarinetist for the NY Philharmonic, talked about how he felt when he discovered his name on the wall at the end of the Park that displayed the thousands of surnames of Black people listed for the first time on the 1870 census after Emancipation. “There was no shame in my name. I used to feel shame about it when on the school bus. Kids would talk about where their names came from and I was ashamed I didn’t know.”
We attended a Juneteenth concert featuring Wynton Marsalis, Esperanza Spalding, Lizz Wright, Samara Joy and Cory Henry. Their performances were interwoven with videos and stories of love and hope from special guests.
Perhaps the most surprising fact I learned on my visit was that, in contrast to the United States where the First Amendment limits the role of government in restricting speech, Germany prohibits publicly denying the Holocaust and disseminating Nazi propaganda both offand online. This includes sharing images such as swastikas, wearing an SS uniform and making statements in support of Hitler. Germans acknowledge the Holocaust and its gruesome details as part of their history, yet here in the US we seem to want to ignore the inhumane details of our past. A trip to Montgomery can offer Americans a way to begin to recognize our past, honor those who survived and make inclusiveness a part of our future. For more information: www.eji.org.
Pattie Cinelli is a journalist who has been writing her health column in the Hill Rag for more than 25 years. Contact her at: fitmiss44@aol.com. u
The National Memorial for Peace and Justice is dedicated to victims of white supremacy.
Bryan Stevenson, Executive director of the Equal Justice Initiative
Guests Ruth Ann Curley, Sarah Gilmour and Pattie Cinelli with Bryan Stevenson at the Juneteenth Celebration.
The District Vet Canine Ehrlichiosis
by Yuri Lee, DVM
Tick-borne disease is very prevalent here in the northeast. Ehrlichiosis is defined as the tick-borne disease caused by the bacteria in the genus Ehrlichia. These bacteria primarily attack the white blood cells in the body, therefore wreaking havoc on the immune system. There are many species of Ehrlichia, but the common ones of interest in veterinary medicine are E. canis, E. chaffeensis, and E. ewingii. E. canis is carried by the brown dog tick, and E. chaffeensis and E. ewingii are carried by the lone star tick.
The lone star tick likes to live in grassy or wooded areas with lots of brush, and can be found all across the eastern US and into the midwest. On the other hand, the brown dog tick can be found all across the US due to their ability to spend their entire life cycle indoors. These ticks live in and around homes, including spaces like dog kennels.
Not all dogs have the same likelihood of infection; the risk of infection can depend on a multi
tude of factors such as immune status, pre-existing conditions, but most importantly, the environment. If a dog is living, frequenting, or even just traveling to the previously mentioned areas where the ticks like to reside, the danger of infection is drastically elevated. The DMV area is one of the unfortunate overlaps of environments that make a great home for both species of ticks. Prevention is key to avoiding infection, and is why the regular administration of tick-prevention is so heavily emphasized.
If Ehrlichiosis is left untreated, there can be life-threatening complications. It is important to seek veterinary care if an owner (especially after known or suspected tick exposure) notices clinical signs such as lethargy, joint pain/lameness, abnormal bleeding, or fever. First, the veterinarian will likely perform a test to check for previous exposure to common tick-borne diseases. If symptomatic, dogs are placed on a four-week
course of antibiotics with necessary supportive care. The dog typically shows improvement in less than a week. This being said, not all dogs that are infected will show clinical signs and may require additional diagnostics to confirm infection and initiate proper treatment.
Although Ehrlichiosis cannot be transferred directly to people from their pets, some Ehrlichia species can infect people if they are bitten by the associated ticks. Also, while this disease can be seen in cats, it is very rare. If interested, additional information can be found at the Center for Disease Control’s website for Ehrlichiosis.
Hello Capitol Hill neighbors! I am Yuri Lee, and I recently joined the District Vet Hospital team as an associate veterinarian. I have lived in a number of places – from Busan, South Korea, to California, to Texas, Kansas, and now here. I completed my DVM at Kansas State University and relocated to the District with my two cats, Gandalf and Corki. Currently, you can find me at the Navy Yard and Eastern Market locations getting settled in. u
Kids & Family
National Fossil Day at Natural History
On Wednesday, Oct. 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., celebrate National Fossil Day with real dinosaurs and free, kid-friendly activities in the museum’s David H. Koch Hall of Fossils—Deep Time. Scientists and educators from the Smithsonian will be on hand to welcome families and anyone interested in exploring Earth’s deep past. You can touch and hold real fossils, observe experts at work in the FossiLab, get up-close to the Nation’s T. rex and discover new paleo icons. No registration required. naturalhistory.si.edu.
Visit
the Democracy
Lab at the Capitol
Learn about the work of Congress in this hands-on education gallery. The collaborative activities in the gallery are designed for children between the ages of eight and 14, however visitors of all ages are welcome. Visitors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult (parent, guardian, teacher and/or chaperone) always. Sta are available to assist and answer questions, but not to supervise children. They recommend that you allow 15 to 30 minutes for a visit to ensure that everyone has time to engage in all the activity stations. The Democracy Lab is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (hours are subject to change). Groups of 15 or more children must make a reservation in advance of their visit. visitthecapitol.gov.
The Natural History Butterfly Pavilion
on-site
to be accompanied by an adult. naturalhistory.si.edu.
Sundays through Thursdays, 10:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., stroll among butter ies and beautiful blooming plants in the Butter y Pavilion. Butter ies y freely around the Pavilion, landing on plants and sometimes people. The Butter y Pavilion is a brightly lit climate-controlled environment kept at 80 degrees Fahrenheit and 80 percent humidity, making it the ideal home for hundreds of butter ies. Admission is $8 for adults (13 to 59); $7 for seniors and kids (2 to 12), Tuesdays, free. Timed entry tickets are required including free Tuesdays. Tickets are available only on-site at the Butter y Pavilion Ticket Desk. All children under the age of 13 are required to be accompanied by an adult. naturalhistory.si.edu.
Photo: Phillip Lee, Smithsonian Institution.
Family Days at the LOC
Upcoming Family Days at the Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building, 20 First St. SE, in the Great Hall are Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Sept. 14, Hispanic Heritage Month; Oct. 19, Halloween; and Nov. 9, Veterans Day. Every Library of Congress visitor, regardless of age, must have a free timed-entry ticket to enter the historic Thomas Je erson Building. Passes are available 30 days in advance. A limited number of same-day tickets are made available each open day at 9 a.m. at loc.gov/visit.
Art in the A.M. at the Renwick
On Tuesday, Sept. 24, 9 a.m., children ages birth to ve and their caregivers are invited to the Renwick Gallery, 1661 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, before hours, to learn, connect,
The 2024 Frederick Douglass Oratorical Contest
Hill Center Family Day
and create in the galleries. Participants will learn about the di erent materials and textures used in ber art by exploring the exhibition Subversive, Skilled, Sublime: Fiber Art by Women. After the tour, children will practice their weaving skills on a community piece, then begin their own individual projects using yarn, paper, and other materials. Space is limited for this program and registration is required at americanart.si.edu.
Family Day at Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, is on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2 to 6 p.m. Guests can enjoy horse drawn carriage rides provided by Harmon’s Carriages and kiddie rock music by King Bullfrog. Balloons by Brenda will create memorable works of balloon art and Turley the Magician will impress the crowd. There will also be face painting as well as arts and crafts activities. The Hill Center is delighted to bring this free, family event to the residents of Capitol Hill and the surrounding community. hillcenterdc.org. streets on the Hill followed by free ice cream at The Capital Candy Jar. They’ll then have a group ride to Late Skate at Anacostia Park Roller Skating Pavillion. They’ll have volunteers marshaling to ensure everyone stays together. MPD bike team will also be participating in the ride to connect o cers with the community. If your bike needs some TLC, come 15 minutes early to get some help. They will have bike maintenance tools available, as well as some experienced amateur bike mechanics on hand. Meet at Maury Elementary parking lot on 12th Pl. NE. Participation is free. hillfamilybiking.org.
Hill Family Biking: Tiny Streets 2 Ride
Saturday, Sept. 28, 4 to 5:30 p.m., is the second edition of the Tiny Streets Ride. Join Hill Family Biking for a four-mile bike ride on some of the most picturesque one-block
Frederick Douglass learned to give speeches from reading The Columbian Orator, a book he bought for 50 cents when he was an enslaved boy in Baltimore. “Every opportunity I got, I read this book,” Douglass wrote in his 1845 autobiography. Students between the ages of six to eighteen can participate in the Frederick Douglass Oratorical Contest and learn to be a con dent public speaker. Applications are accepted from Sept. 16 to Nov. 16. The contest dates are Dec. 3 to 7. You can apply on-line or in person at the Frederick Douglass Visitor Center, 1411 W St. SE. Deaf and hard of hearing students are welcome. For contest information and an application go to nps.gov/frdo.
Harvest Day at the REACH Plaza
On Saturday, Oct. 19, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., join local nonpro t FRESHFARM for a fun and tasty journey through the local food system. Dive into handson activities to learn how food is grown and made—and discover easy ways to get involved, from cooking to composting. Plus, enjoy music, local vendors, and a day of fun for the whole family. Free, no reservations required. kennedy-center.org.
Portrait Gallery Kids at the NPG
On select Mondays, Sept. 9, 16, 23 and 30; Oct. 7, 21 and 28; Nov. 4, 18 and 25, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., children and families are invited to learn, play and create at the National Portrait Gallery, Eighth and G streets NW, in the Education Center
E151. Join educators as everyone explores a new topic and different materials. Participants will look at art, enjoy hands-on activities, listen to music and participate in story time. Portrait Gallery Kids is a fun way to engage with art and each other. Free; no registration required. npg.si.edu.
Second Saturdays at the NGA
Beginning Saturday, Oct. 12, at 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. and 11 to 11:45 a.m., this series of free workshops designed for families with young children five and under explores the power of the arts to promote wellness of the mind and body. Every second Saturday of the month, local arts organizations offer two 45-minute workshops at the National Gallery of Art. This event is free but tickets, available on Sept. 10, are required. nga.gov.
Dead Man’s Run Kid’s Race
Dead Man’s Run is Congressional Cemetery’s annual fall 5k fundraiser. This year it’s on Saturday, Oct. 12 at 5:30 p.m. (rain or shine). The race starts with a toll of the funeral bell and continues throughout the Cemetery and onto the Anacostia Trail for a ghostly
The Big Build at the National Building Museum
On Saturday, Oct. 19, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., all ages are invited to National Building Museum’s The Big Build, a free hands-on festival exploring a wide variety of unique, interactive activities with roofers, plumbers, home remodelers, construction workers, carpenters, designers, and artisans. The Big Build fills the Museum’s Great Hall with interactive booths including a nail driving contest and a structural engineering station with an earthquake simulation to discover how buildings can be built to be more stable. Everyone will be using real tools and you can even climb inside construction equipment in the outdoor Petting Zoo. The Tech Room will have augmented reality demonstrations, VR experiences, and other immersive digital activities to engage older children and teens. Books read in the Storytime Room will inspire younger visitors as they hear about architects, carpenters and roofers, building a new home. The National Building Museum is at 401 F St. NW. nbm.org.
Homecoming Family Day at President Lincoln’s Cottage
During the Civil War, the Lincoln family called the Cottage home. Tad Lincoln spent three summers of his childhood exploring the grounds of the Soldiers’ Home as well as the rooms of the Cottage. Here he played with friends, soldiers, animals, as well as his family. Each year, President Lincoln’s Cottage, 140 Rock Creek Church Rd. NW, welcomes families to enjoy the grounds as the Lincoln family did with a full day of free family fun at Homecoming. Families can enjoy arts and crafts, story time, pony rides and petting zoo, live music, cottage and grounds tours, Zumba and family work outs. This year Homecoming Family Day is on Saturday, Sept. 21, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. lincolncottage.org.
evening run full of spooky music and other fun. They also offer a kid’s race prior to the start of the 5k. Participation in the children’s run is free for any child who has a parent, guardian, or friend registered for the 5k. Children may still participate, if no runners are registered, for a $5 fee. Registration for the children’s race
A Bilingual Frida Libre at GALA
Alex may seem like a quiet, shy boy, but he secretly holds big ideas in his head. He wants to be a luchador (wrestler) and defeat bad guys in the ring. His life changes when he meets brave and colorful Frida, an unusual girl who dreams of being a doctor. Forced to collaborate on a science project on butterflies and metamorphosis, the pair discovers how true friendship can help overcome fear and transform dreams into reality. Inspired by the childhood of legendary Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, Frida Libre is an uplifting story featuring delightful songs that explore the meaning of friendship, bravery, and transformation. Frida Libre is at GALA Theatre, 3333 14th St. NW, on Saturdays, Oct. 12, 19 and 26, at 2 p.m. General admission tickets are $12 for adults; $10 for children. galatheater.org.
is in the chapel the day of the race and a parent or guardian must sign a waiver. Costumes encouraged. Congressional Cemetery is at 1801 E St. SE. congressionalcemetery.org.
Black Student Fund & Latino Student Fund Annual School Fair
The Black Student Fund & Latino Student Fund Annual School Fair is on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2 to 5 p.m., at the UDC Student Center, 4200 Connecticut Ave. NW. Registration and the NonSchool Vendor Concourse open at 1:30 p.m. Admission is free. For fifty years, the BSF/LSF School Fair has provided a networking opportunity for thousands of families to meet with representatives from more than sixty independent schools. Parents and prospective students get first-hand knowledge about each school’s programs, community, admission requirements and financial aid process. In addition, the fair features interactive seminars focused on the admis-
sions process, the financial aid process and personal/family financial management. Read more and register at blackstudentfund.org and/or latinostudentfund.org.
Race For Every Child Run/Walk
The Race For Every Child on Saturday, Oct. 19 at Freedom Plaza, is a fun event with a serious purpose--to promote children’s health and wellness, and raise much-needed funds that help Children’s National ensure every child can benefit from world-class medical care. Registration is free through Oct. 13. There is a $30 fee to register between October 14 and 19. Children between the ages of three and ten are eligible to participate in the 100-yard Kids’ Dash. Prerace activities start at 7 a.m.; 5k at 8:45 a.m.; and Kids’ Dash at 10 a.m. foundation.childrensnational.org.
Experience an 18th-Century Marketplace
On Sept. 14 and 15, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., take in the sights and sounds of the marketplace on Mount Vernon’s 12-acre field. Chat with colonial artisans selling traditional handcrafted food and wares. Hear live music from the colonial era. Play 18th-century games on the bowling green. Watch as expert artisans demonstrate period crafting techniques. Mount Vernon’s Colonial Market & Fair is included with general admission--$28 for adults; $15, ages six to eleven; kids, birth to five, free. mountvernon.org.
Image design: Ariel Gómez
Photo: Courtesy of George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Mo @ the NSO in the Kennedy Center
On Saturday, Sept. 21, 2 and 4 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 22, 2 and 4 p.m., with the help of all-star guests, New York Times best-selling author/illustrator Mo Willems introduces fun musical ideas, explores big emotions, and invites viewers to listen, play, and create. In partnership with the National Symphony Orchestra and conductor Enrico Lopez-Yañez, Mo uses music and storytelling to take kids and former kids on a playful journey of symphonic delights. Mo @ the NSO is most enjoyed by ages ve and older. Tickets start at $25. kennedy-center.org.
Cabin John Kids Run 2024
Len Kirsten was a true Capitol Hill pioneer. In 1965, the entrepreneurial Len opened the Emporium, the Hill’s first trendy gift and novelty shop, in the 300 block of Pennsylvania Avenue, SE. For the next 10 years he sold posters, costume jewelry, political buttons and much more, items he said his customers had to travel to Georgetown to find before he opened his shop. Read about Len in his oral history at CapitolHillHistory.org. Keep Capitol Hill history alive by becoming a volunteer.
The Cabin John Kids Run is on Saturday, Oct. 5, 9 to 10 a.m. at Cabin John Regional Park in Potomac. In the interest of promoting children’s running, this race is free to all runners 17 and under. Read more and get directions at mcrrc.org/calendar-event/ cabin-john-kids-run-2024.
New Crosswalk Mural Artwork at Maury Elementary
Hill Family Biking has announced the unveiling of a rst-of-its-kindin-DC permanent crosswalk mural artwork at Maury Elementary on Saturday, Aug. 31, 11:30 a.m. The crosswalk artwork, created by DC woman-owned mural production house ChalkRiot, features an eyecatching design that borders each side of the crosswalk at 13th and Tennessee SE. The goal of the project is to make the crosswalk more visible to drivers, recognize pedestri-
ans, children, bicycles, and everyone else that uses that crosswalk, and reduce their speed and encourage safer driving in the school corridor. Hill Family Biking partnered with Maury Elementary to raise funds for this project, including grants from Capitol Hill Community Foundation and ANC 6A. hillfamilybiking.org.
NSO Family Concert: Halloween Spooktacular! (an annual tradition)
On Sunday, Oct. 27, 2 and 4 p.m., the Kennedy Center Concert Hall transforms into a ghostly sight when ghoulishly attired National Symphony Orchestra musicians, led by conductor Michelle Merrill, celebrate Halloween. Enjoy a concert lled with musical treats from fa-boolous new works to spooky old classics. Arrive early for trick-or-treating and a special Haunted Hall Musical PLAYspace. Tickets are $25 to $28. The Halloween Spooktacular! is most enjoyed by ages ve and older. kennedy-center.org. ◆
Photo by Gayle Krughoff
CROSSWORD
“Singers”
by Myles Mellor
Across:
1. Smirnoff perhaps
6. Inveigle
13. Juice drink ending
16. Still
18. Knights’ equipment
19. Ramble
21. Heat again, as water
22. Shoddy
23. “Ready ___ ...”
24. Pop singer
26. Pop singer
28. Approves
29. Rap doctor?
31. Superciliousness
32. Top-notch
38. Hypocrite
41. In case
42. Exxon Valdez, e.g.
45. “Little Women” author
46. Silk dress material
47. Handheld device
48. Travel
50. Questioning expressions
53. Bubbly name
54. Football positions, abbr.
56. Spanish soccer captain
58. Creep
62. Night sky blazer
65. Tractable
66. Two pop singers
70. Deceive
71. “A fish called ___” movie
72. Altruist’s opposite
73. Dramatic event
74. Over, poetically
75. Short plastic type of worm
77. Atlantic food fish
78. Degree in karate
80. Belonging to that guy
83. Soaks meat
89. “Lapis” follower
91. They can’t be trusted
92. Came down and settled
96. Supple
97. Violent weather
98. “I conquered,” to Caesar
99. Geological time span
100. Elvis hit “A Fool Such ___”
102. Pop singer, first name
104. Pop singer
114. Role player
115. Seaport of Sicily
116. Island in West Indies
117. Kind
118. Receive from a predecessor
119. Evening bell
120. Dry, as wine
121. Sound equipments
122. Incite
Down:
1. Hop, skip or jump
2. No longer stuck on
3. Figure skater Thomas
4. Bow
5. Alphabet book phrase
6. Beater in the kitchen
7. Assists
8. Popular fashion magazine
9. “Birdman” star, Stone
10. Tootsie
11. Former Fords
12. Wind dir.
13. Temper, as metal
14. Rock brothers
15. Puts in
17. Cheer for the torero
19. Baseballer Clemente
20. Spoon bender
25. 1781 surrender site
27. Run after Q
29. Handel’s “Gloria in Excelsis ___”
30. ___ Chris Steak House
32. Get wet
33. At an event it can be black
34. “Turn to Stone” band
35. 8 1/2 x 11 in. size
36. Hang behind
37. Buttercup family member
38. Worthless or oversimplified ideas
39. Earlier, of a model for example
40. Bogeyman
43. French summer
44. On pension (Abbr.)
49. Windshield flier
50. Dubai bigwigs
51. “The Planets” composer
52. Compass point
55. A.C. measure
57. Type of berry
58. El ____
59. Polished
60. Stay away from
61. Put on, as cargo
62. News channel
63. Peculiar
64. Business degree
65. Hazard for a letter carrier
67. Overwhelming admiration
68. Port city of Denmark
69. Emotionally unstable
70. U.S. Army medal
74. Top of the world
75. World time zone (abbr.)
76. Like sushi
79. Very attentive
81. Labor org, for short
82. Kind of card in phones
84. Drawing game
85. Roadie’s cargo
86. Place to network
87. Hospital rooms
88. Bygone fast jet, briefly
90. Twice, a Gabor
92. “On the Beach” actress, Gardner
93. Fragrant flowers
94. Winter gutter spike
95. It’s always sold in mint condition
100. Prenatal test, for short
101. Sings like Fitzgerald
103. Apple operating system
104. Confined, with “up”
105. Tennis great, Arthur
106. Exploitative type
107. Onetime Italian capital
108. Off-road goer, for short
109. Some bucks
110. Chef’s measure
111. Wine county
112. Elbe tributary
113. Duke of ___, Shakespearean character
115. Prefix for ‘’giving’’ or ‘’taking’’
Charming, welcoming 3-lvl home, with modern amenities & historic details, unique among most renovations, located nr. Eastern Mkt, Barracks Row, 2 Metro’s, parks & in-bound for Brent, a home to live in, but with room to grow. Short walk to the LOC, US Capitol, Supreme Ct, and MORE!
• 3 Lvls: 4 BR/ 4 baths / 2 laundries
• 3000+ total sq.ft.
• Large Bedrooms / Luxurious Baths
• Original Wood Flrs, Exposed Brick
• Private Shaded Brick Bk Yd
• MBR Ste w/ 2nd Floor ‘Cafe’ Deck
• Central Air / Radiator Heat
• Tankless Hot Water Heater
• High Ceilings / Ceiling Fans
• Repurposed Beams & Joists
• Walker’/Bikers’ Paradise
• Excellent for Transit
• In-Bounds Brent / nr. 2 Metro’s
Welcoming Tudor home, nr. one of DC’s best schools, very good for commuters & bikers, near shopping, with room for family or friends!
