hillrag.com • June 2014
Est. 1981
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BRIGHTWOOD
CT TRA N O C CAPITOL HILL
BRIGHTWOOD
1322 Rittenhouse St., NW Coming Soon!
717 Oglethorpe St., NW $739,500
Pete Frias 202-744-8973 www.PeterFrias.com
Todd Bissey 202-841-7653 THE BISSEY TEAM
BRIGHTWOOD
410 E Street, SE $1,598,500
830 Missouri Avenue, NW $608,500
Genie Hutinet 202-413-7661
Fern Pannill 240-508-4856
CAPITOL HILL
1000 East Capitol St, NE #2 $449,000 Pete Frias 202-744-8973 www.PeterFrias.com
CAPITOL HILL 1341 E. Capitol St, SE #202 Fabulous light-filled 2BR/2BA in the pet-friendly Parkman Condo!
CT TRA N O C PETWORTH 1114 Spring Road, NW $867,500 Fern Pannill 240-508-4856
THE
Todd Bissey 202-841-7653
BISSEY TEAM
AT JOHN C. FORMANT REAL ESTATE, INC.
Stan Bissey 202-841-1433
CT TRA N O C CAPITOL HILL
1320 F Street, NE $668,500
Todd Bissey 202-841-7653 THE BISSEY TEAM
CT TRA CON
ANACOSTIA
COLONIAL VILLAGE 1709 Kalmia Road, NW $1,197,500 Genie Hutinet 202-413-7661
CAPITOL HILL
PETWORTH
CAPITOL HILL
1438 Bangor Street, SE $198,500
1513 Constitution Ave, NE #2 $339,000
900 Crittenden Street, NW $684,500
440 12th Street, NE #304 $469,000
Stan Bissey 202-841-1433 THE BISSEY TEAM
Pete Frias 202-744-8973 www.PeterFrias.com
Todd Bissey 202-841-7653 THE BISSEY TEAM
Pete Frias 202-744-8973 www.PeterFrias.com
“WHERE WASHINGTON SHOPS FOR A NEW ADDRESS!”® 225 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20003
Tel: 202-544-3900 www.johncformant.com
Sales • Rentals • Commercial Leasing • Property Management • Investments
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Current & Upcoming Listings
UPCOMING LISTINGS
1414 East Capitol Street 301 K Street NE (2 Condos) 440 24th Street NE 414 Crittenden NW 52 Quincy Street NW #304 906 12th Street SE 330 Rhode Island Ave NE #202 1700 D Street SE 5548 Hollins Lane 9772 Viewcrest Drive 1309 Kennedy Street NW 301 Whittier #203 2519 Minnesota Ave SE 1636 Mass Ave SE
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1250 C St. NE
607 Delafield NW
612 C Street SE
834 5th Street NE
SOLD
52 Quincy St. NW #304
1436 N. Carolina Ave. NE
SOLD
SOLD
6307 3rd St. NW
1441 East Capitol St. SE
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0 ,50 324 d$ Liste t s Ju
3109 63rd Place Cheverly, MD
106 Tennessee Avenue, #3 Lincoln Park
4BR/2.5BA Spacious renovated Cape Cod Home w/ hardwood floors, granite counters, walk-in closet & large, fully-fenced yard.
er Und
000 80, t $6 trac n o C
53 Q Street NE Eckington / NoMA 4BR, 3.5BA Victorian with In-law Suite/Apartment. Want Space? Over 2,400sf. City Center! Walk to Metro & restaurant retail of Bloomingdale & NoMA.
0 ,50 309 ld $ o S t Jus
00 0,0 $49 act r t n o er C Und
0 ,50 499 d$ Liste t s Ju
284 15th St. SE #302
2BA/1BA Condo full of personality w/ moldings, wood floors, high ceilings & lots of natural light. Wood-burning FP; Park Views. Walking distance to everything.fully-fenced yard.
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00 5,0 ,79 t $1 c a tr Con
101 5th St. NE Formerly the Bull Moose Bed & Breakfast. 11 BR, 8BA; the possibilities are endless.
0 ,00 480 ld $ o S t Jus
2 BR/2 BA 4-year old construction. Great light, Garage parking. Walking distance to Potomac Avenue Metro.
000 00, t $7 trac n o er C Und
00 6,0 $47 act r t n o er C Und
522 24th St. NE Kingman Park/ Capitol Hill Renovated 2 BR and den porchfront with open floor plan, great deck, backyard and parking. New kitchen and bath.closet & large, fully-fenced yard.
000 80, t $3 trac n o er C Und
0 ,00 349 ld $ o S t Jus
11027 Marcliff Rd. Rockville/N.Bethesda
730 11th St. NE #301
7913 Old Carriage Trail, Alexandria, VA
Short Sale. Just under 3,000 sf on 3 levels with 3/4 acre lot. Opportunity to build a new home or renovate existing. Convenient to 270, parks & retail. Good schools.
2 BR/2 BA Spacious Condo in the heart of H Street great for investor or owner-occupant. Master Suite, fireplace, lots of light & great storage. Capitol Hill convenience w/ H Street flair & fun.
2 BR/2.5 BA Cozy Townhouse in Landsdowne community w/ open floor plan & lots of light. Easy access to shopping, dining & commuting options.
0 ,00 535 ld $ o S Just
0 ,00 405 ld $ o S Just
0 ,00 380 ld $ o S Just
00 6,0 $54 act r t n o er C Und
520 E Street NE #302 Renovated 2 BR, 2 BA Victorian bayfront condo w/ great natural light, fireplace, and lots of character in the shadow of Union Station & H Street.
0 5,00 1,79 ld $ o S Just
2101 Connecticut Avenue NW, #23 Kalorama Elegant 3000 sq. ft+ Co-op apartment with 3BR, 3BA. Walking distance to Woodley, Dupont, and Adams Morgan.
ld t So Jus
COULD BE YOUR HOME! 1010 25th St. NW, #211 West End/Foggy Bottom 1 BR/1 BA condo in historic building. 1 block to Trader Joe’s and Foggy Bottom Metro.
5 Park Place #707 Historic Annapolis, MD 2 BR/2 BA Large Penthouse Condo adjacent to Westin Hotel in downtown Annapolis. Hotel amenities, historic neighborhood, walk to water.
12 Cindy Court Severna Park, MD
Renovated 4BR, 3BA with 2-story addition. Space galore, wonderful light, award-winning schools, 6 miles to downtown Annapolis, walking distance to water
437 2nd St. SE, #2-B
Renovated 1 BR Co-op in secondto-none location and off-street parking. Full of personality.
5904 Euclid Street Cheverly, MD Newly-renovated 3 BR, 2 BA Colonial. Great space inside and out. Wonderful Cheverly community.
Call Us to Get Your Home Sold or Find a New One!
“In addition to helping Buyers and Sellers on greater Capitol Hill & DC for over 14 years, we are committed to building community in Arlington, Alexandria & close-in MD.”
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What’s Inside?
capitol streets 35
The Hillrag presents:
46
Bulletin Board
56
The District Beat
58
The Numbers: Unlocking Opportunities
Kathleen Donner
A LOCAL TOURISM GUIDE
Andrew Lightman
Soumya Bhat & Jenny Reed
In every issue: 16 What’s on Washington 20 Calendar 76 Hill Rag Crossword 160 Classified Ads 168 Last Word 170 The Nose
35
60
Fragers: A Year after the Fire
64
Hill Center Progress Report
66
ANC 6A Report
Annette Nielsen Guy Martin
Denise Romano
70
ANC 6B Report
Jonathan Neeley
72
ANC 6C Report
Charnice A. Milton
june. 73
ANC 6D Report
Roberta Weiner
74
ANC 6E Report
Steve Holton
community life 77
E on DC
78
Eastern Market Pot Luck
E. Ethelbert Miller
80
Capitol Hill Group Ministry Launches Programs Under New Charnice A. Milton
Executive Director
60
Andrew Lightman
Stephen Lilienthal
82
A Taste for Mentoring
83
Capitol Hill’s Uniform Clothing Drive
84
South by West
86
H Street Life
88
Barracks Row
90
At Your Service
Heather Schoell
William Rich Elise Bernard Sharon Bosworth Ellen Boomer
real estate 92
Changing Hands
Don Denton
arts and dining 103
Dining Notes
Celeste McCall
106
In the Chefs Kitchen
110
At the Movies
112
Theatre: Freud, Lewis and God
Annette Nielsen
Mike Canning Barbara Wells
106
What’s Your Hill Home Worth? We’ve got your number - contact us to find out.
on the cover:
I Like Having Diverse Friends, by Marcia Coppel, Acrylic, 28” x 22” Marcia Coppel’s light-filled paintings have a surprising range of beautiful color. She paints people in outdoor cafes, parks, and the beach. Stories are suggested but are left to the imagination of the viewer. Her beach paintings were drawn on the beach in Mexico and painted later with imaginary colors. See more of her works at the Touchstone Gallery www.marciacoppel.com • www.touchstonegallery.com This JUNE at Touchstone: Preview: June 4-5, 11 am – 6 pm. une 6 - 29, 2014. Opening Reception: Friday, June 6, 6 - 8:30pm GALLERY A – Touchstone Gallery All Member Show GALLERY B – Avian Attitudes by Colleen Sabo (member artist) GALLERY C – Touchstone Gallery with the support of the Cultural Service of the Embassy of France presents: Les Chemins de Memoire (The Paths of Memory) by Charles Goldstein (Paris, France) (guest artist)
114
Art and The City
Jim Magner
118
The Literary Hill
Karen Lyons
120
Wine Guys
122
Jazz Project
UNDER CONTRACT:
Lilia Coffin Jean Keith Fagon
health and fitness 125
About those Fat Cats in Washington Dr. Heather McCurdy Antonia Sohns
128
Batala Washington
132
Foregt about the Tea Party- It’s All About the ‘Bee’ Party
Meghan Markey
Kids & Family Notebook
142
School Notes
1417 Newton St NW #523 • $349,900
SOLD: 1005 I ST, SE • $600,000
kids and family 135
2005 Gales St NE • $375,000
Kathleen Donner
Susan Braun Johnson
homes and gardens 153
Hill Gardner: Roses are Easy...Really!
Meg: 202.329.4068 | George: 202.203.0339
Cheryl Corson, RLA, ASLA 156
Garden Spot: Pacesetting Gardens
158
Dear Garden Problem Lady
Derek Thomas
Wendy Blair
Look Us Up on Facebook! The Norris Group
F A G O N
MIDCITY
GUIDE TO CAPITOL HILL
YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
Capital Community News, Inc. • 224 7th Street, SE, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20003 202.543.8300 • www.capitalcommunitynews.com
JUNE
28 SAVE THE DATE
EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Melissa Ashabranner • melissaashabranner@hillrag.com Publisher: Jean-Keith Fagon • fagon@hillrag.com Copyright © 2014 by Capital Community News. All Rights Reserved.
Editorial Staff
M������� E�����: Andrew Lightman • andrew@hillrag.com CFO � A�������� E�����: Maria Carolina Lopez • carolina@hillrag.com S����� N���� E�����: Susan Braun Johnson • schools@hillrag.com K��� � F����� E�����: Kathleen Donner • kathleendonner@gmail.com F��� E�����: Annette Nielsen • annette@hillrag.com
Arts, Dining & Entertainment
SAT. 06.28.14
BEAUTY, Health & Fitness
Patricia Cinelli • fitmiss44@aol.com Jazelle Hunt • jazelle.hunt@gmail.com Candace Y.A. Montague • writeoncm@gmail.com
KIDS & FAMILY
Kathleen Donner • kathleendonner@gmail.com Susan Johnson • schools@hillrag.com
Jim Magner • jjmagner@aol.com Emily Clark • clapol47@gmail.com Celeste McCall • celeste@us.net Jonathan Bardzik • jonathan.bardzik@gmail.com L���������: Karen Lyon • klyon@folger.edu M�����: Mike Canning • mjcanning@verizon.net M����: Jean-Keith Fagon • fagon@hillrag.com Stephen Monroe • samonroe2004@yahoo.com R����� T������: Marissa Terrell • mterrell@sbclawgroup.com T������: Barbara Wells • barchardwells@aol.com T�� W��� G���: Jon Genderson • jon@cellar.com
Society & Events
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C������� E�����: Kathleen Donner • calendar@hillrag.com, bulletinboard@hillrag.com
General Assignment
Martin Austermuhle • martin.austermuhle@gmail.com Maggy Baccinelli • mbaccinelli@gmail.com Elise Bernard • elise.bernard@gmail.com Ellen Boomer • emboomer@gmail.com Elena Burger • elena96b@gmail.com Stephanie Deutsch • scd@his.com Michelle Phipps-Evans • invisiblecolours@yahoo.com Maggie Hall • whitby@aol.com Mark Johnson • mark@hillrag.com Dave Kletzkin • Dave@hillrag.com Stephen Lilienthal - stephen_lilienthal@yahoo.com Pleasant Mann • pmann1995@gmail.com Meghan Markey • meghanmarkey@gmail.com Charnice Milton • charnicem@hotmail.com John H. Muller • jmuller.washingtonsyndicate@gmail.com Jonathan Neeley • neeley87@gmail.com Will Rich • will.janks@gmail.com Heather Schoell • schoell@verizon.net Virginia Avniel Spatz • virginia@hillrag.com Michael G. Stevens • michael@capitolriverfront.org Peter J. Waldron • peter@hillrag.com
Mickey Thompson • socialsightings@aol.com
Homes & Gardens
Derek Thomas • derek@thomaslandscapes.com Catherine Plume • caplume@yahoo.com
COMMENTARY
Ethelbert Miller • emiller698@aol.com T�� N��� • thenose@hillrag.com T�� L��� W��� • editorial@hilllrag.com A�� D�������: Jason Yen • jay@hillrag.com Graphic Design: Lee Kyungmin • lee@hillrag.com W�� M�����: Andrew Lightman • andrew@hillrag.com
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We welcome suggestions for stories. Send queries to andrew@hillrag.com. We are also interested in your views on community issues which are published in the Last Word. Please limit your comments to 250 words. Letters may be edited for space. Please include your name, address and phone number. Send Last Word submissions to lastword@hillrag.com. For employment opportunities email jobs@hillrag.com. 14 H Hillrag.com
YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR GOAL!
SEMINARS TO HELP YOU START & SUSTAIN YOUR BUSINESS! Check out our FREE June Seminars and Training Sessions Quality, Affordable Health Insurance For Your Business! The Affordable Care Act (ACA) allows individuals, families and small businesses the opportunity to shop for high-quality, affordable health coverage. With access to coverage beginning January 1st of this year, the New Health Law Impacts Your Business. DCRA, in partnership with the DC Chamber of Commerce, will present information on DC Health Link, which is an online marketplace that provides small businesses with direct access to the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP), a tool that helps you compare and enroll in the health insurance package that meets your needs. Location: Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs Small Business Resource Center Fourth Floor - Room E-4302 1100 4th Street, SW. Washington, DC 20024 When: Wednesday, June 18, 2014 Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm To Register Go To: http://bizdc.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=37645
Financial Management & Credit Reporting Presented by: BB&T Location: Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs Second Floor – Room E 200 1100 4th Street, SW. Washington, D.C. 20024 When: Thursday, June 26, 2014 Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm To Register Go To: http://bizdc.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=38412
How to Open a Small Business in DC Interested in opening a small business in the District of Columbia? Then make sure you attend this training session where DCRA staff will walk you through every step you need to open a new business including: • The benefits of incorporating or creating an LLC • Types of business licenses & how much they cost • How to apply for a business license • Zoning requirements for various businesses types • Obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) • What building permits are needed to do renovations • How to apply for a building permit, and much more. Location: Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Second Floor – Room E 200 1100 4th Street, SW. Washington, D.C. 20024 When: Wednesday, June 25, 2014 Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm To Register Go To: http://bizdc.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=38416
A Comprehensive Guide for Small Business Planning Why develop a business plan? The purpose for creating a business plan is almost as important as the content of the plan itself. Writing a well thought-out and organized plan dramatically increases the odds that your business venture will succeed. This workshop covers the basics of business planning and why it’s important for business success. Topics include starting-up a successful business, the important linkages between marketing, sales, and your financial projections, and gaining a competitive advantage. Location: Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Second Floor – Room E 200 1100 4th Street, SW. Washington, D.C. 20024 When: Wednesday, July 2, 2014 Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm To Register Go To: http://bizdc.ecenterdirect.com/ConferenceDetail.action?ID=38418
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Handi-hour Crafting at the American Art Museum Handi-hour is DC’s premier crafty hour, bringing together the city’s craftiest folks for an evening of creative revelry. All-you-can-craft activities, worldclass art paired with craft beer hand selected by Greg Engert of ChurchKey, live music by local acts, and scavenger hunts for prizes make this quarterly event something you won’t want to miss. The next Handi-hour is Wednesday, June 11, 5:30 p.m., at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th and F Sts. NW. It’s $20 at the door. There will be another in September. Watch for it on their website. 202633-7970. americanart.si.edu
Photo: Courtesy of Smithsonian American Art Museum
New Water Taxi Service between National Mall and Old Town, Alexandria The Potomac Riverboat Co. now offers water taxi services between Old Town, Alexandria, and the National Mall. Passengers can board the “Miss Sophie” for a 30-minute cruise, departing from the Alexandria City Marina and docking at the Potomac River side of the National Mall near the intersection of West Basin and Ohio Drive, steps from the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, Tidal Basin, and a Capital Bikeshare station. Boats depart from the National Mall at 10:30 a.m., 11:50 a.m., 2:30 p.m., 3:50 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and 9:10 p.m. Through Sept.1 the water taxi runs six days a week (closed on Wednesday); Sept. 2-Oct. 13, five days a week (closed on Tuesday and Wednesday); and Oct. 14-Nov. 2, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Tickets are $28 round trip or $14 one way for adults; children are $16 round trip or $8 one way. PotomacRiverboatCo.com Photo: Courtesy of Potomac Riverboat Co.
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Smithsonian Star-Spangled Banner Bicentennial Concert and Sing-a-Long The National Museum of American History’s keystone celebration will take place on Flag Day, Saturday, June 14, 4:00 p.m., near the National Mall entrance to the museum, when it invites Americans around the globe to join Raise It Up! in a worldwide commemoration of the flag and the anthem. Raise it Up! Anthem for America will be a call to millions of Americans to participate in singing “The Star-Spangled Banner” simultaneously, steps from the original flag that flew over Fort McHenry in 1814. Grammy-winning composer Eric Whitacre will conduct a 500-person choir in performance of “America the Beautiful.” MacArthur “genius” fellow Francisco J. Núñez conducts “Lift Every Voice,” with commander and conductor Col. Larry Lang directing the US Air Force Band and Singing Sergeants. For more information visit anthemforamerica.si.edu. Photo: Courtesy of Smithsonian National Museum of American History
DC Jazz Festival With more than 125 performances in dozens of venues across the city, the DC Jazz Festival, June 24-29, is the largest music festival in Washington. It presents year-round music education programs and concerts for DC students and residents by local, national, and internationally known talent at venues across DC. It promotes music integration in school curricula and supports outreach to expand and diversify the audience of jazz enthusiasts. dcjazzfest.org This year’s highlight is Jazz at the Capitol Riverfront, which features eight performances by acclaimed artists at the Capitol Riverfront, 355 Water St. SE, on June 27-29. The Friday, June 27, concert featuring Frédéric Yonnet and Akua Allrich is free. Gates open at 5:00 p.m. The Saturday, June 28, concert featuring Gregory Porter, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Yasiin Bey (aka Mos Def), and special guests is ticketed. Gates open at 2:00 p.m. The Sunday, June 29, concert featuring Rebirth Brass Band and Irma Thomas, is also ticketed. Gates open at 2:00 p.m. Tickets, offered in one- or two-day packages for June 28-29 performances, are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com.
Trombone Shorty. Photo: Jonathan Mannion
Chesapeake Crab & Beer Festival On Saturday, June 21, join thousands of others for this new Maryland tradition at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. The Chesapeake Crab & Beer Festival is an all-you-care-to-taste extravaganza complete with over 20,000 crabs, corn on the cob, coleslaw, arts and crafts, music, family fun, and much more. In addition guests will enjoy over 20 different beers and wines in festival souvenir glasses. There are two sessions: noon-4:00 p.m. and 5:00-9:00 p.m. All tickets are advance purchase only and both sessions are expected to sell out. It’s $79 for the first session, $89 for the second; $59 for the designated driver, and $29 for kids ages 4-20. The festival repeats on Aug. 16 at the National Harbor waterfront. mdcrabfest.com Photo: Courtesy of Chesapeake Crab & Beer Festival
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2013 BEST PHOTO BOOKER - “PERFECT SPOT FOR A NAP!”
SUBMITTED BY AJ COPELAND
MAKE YOUR PET A STAR! Send us your favorite pet photos for a chance at fame and fortune and prizes! Winning entries will be published in the July Hill Rag, our Special Pet Issue, and on our website at www.hillrag.com. In addition,winners receive gift certificates and prizes from our partners. In Partnership With
TO ENTER • Send photos to 224 7th St., SE, Washington, DC (Attention Pet Contest 2014) OR E-mail to pets@hillrag.com (make sure your photo is over 300 dpi). • Maximum of two photos per entry. Include your name, a phone number, the name of your pet, a caption for the photo and/or category. • Photos cannot be returned.
CATEGORIES Best Overall Photo | Best Cat Photo | Best Dog Photo | Loveliest Cutest | Funniest | Cleverest Caption | Best Buddies (human & pet) Best Buddies (pets) | Most Laid Back | Most Unusual
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COLDWELL BANKER
RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE Your Strong Local Brokerage With Deep National & International Roots
Since 2000, when we listed and sold the first million dollar property on Capitol Hill, we have continued to be the leader in marketing and selling expensive luxury homes in our neighborhood. Since that first sale in 2000, of the 360 properties that have sold for over a $1.0M on the Hill, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage has listed and/or sold more than 60%. We didn’t just discover the Hill, we have worked hard to help make it what it is today and will be tomorrow. Along the way, our company and our agents have invested nearly $1.0M and thousands of hours in our neighborhood institutions.
202.547.3525 - Main Office I N F O R M AT I O N D EEM ED R ELI A B LE B U T N O T G UA R A N T EED
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Union Market Sunday Supper June 8. 5:30-9:30 PM. This event benefits the James Beard Foundation Educational Grant Program and Good Food Merchants Guild. $250. Purchase tickets at unionmarketdc. com/events/sundaysupper Photo: EDENS
JUNE CALENDAR SPECIAL EVENTS AND DESTINATIONS 2014 Twilight Tattoo at Fort Myer. Wednesdays (except July 2), through Aug 20 , 7:00 PM with pre-ceremony pageantry starting at 6:45 PM. Members of the 3rd US Infantry (The Old Guard), the US Army Band “Pershings Own,” Fife and Drum Corps and the US Army Drill Team will perform an hour-long sunset military Pageant. Over 100 Old Guard soldiers dressed in period uniforms will provide a glimpse of Army history from colonial times to the soldier of the future. Summerall Field on historic Fort Myer in Arlington, VA. twilight.mdw.army.mil Swing Time-The Musical! at the Naval Heritage Center. June 5, 8, 15, 25 and 26; July 2, 3, 9, and 10; 7:00 PM. Set in a World War II era radio studio, this lively musical revue features three men and three women who are working together to put on their live big-band war bond drive radio broadcast. Lots of delightful surprises ensue, as well as wartime romance and plenty of comedy. $39. Naval Heritage Center, Naval Heritage Center, 701 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. SwingTimeTheMusical.com Washington Monument Open. The Monument will be open from 9:00 AM-10:00 PM until the end of summer. Reserve your time to take the elevator to the top at recreation.gov. Dupont-Kalorama Walk Weekend. June 7, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM; June 8, 1:00-5:00 PM. Visit seven museums in the Dupont-Kalorama neighborhood, open free of charge for this annual festival. The weekend features exhibitions, tours, live music, hands-on activities, and more. dkmuseums. com/walk
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CHAW Art and Performance Festival. June 7, 1:00-8:00 PM. The Capitol Hill Arts Workshop presents a day of art, music, dance, and more. CHAW, 545 7th St. SE. 202-547-6839. chaw.org Capital Pride Parade. June 7, 4:30 PM. The 39th Annual Capital Pride Parade presented by Marriott steps off at 22nd & P Sts. NW. The Pride Parade travels 1.5 miles through Dupont Circle and 17th St., passes by the Logan Circle neighborhood and ends along the revitalized 14th St. corridor at S St. 202-719-5304. capitalpride.org Taste of the Caribbean. June 7, noon-7:00 PM. Bring your lawn chairs and join us for what promises to be a celebration of Caribbean Americans in Prince George’s County through cultural performances in dance and music, international cuisine and craft vendors. Festival at Bladensburg waterfront Park in Bladensburg, MD. 301-322-7497. thecaribbeancouncil.org Capital Pride Festival. June 8, noon-10:00 PM. Pennsylvania Ave. NW, between 3rd St. and 7th St.; Constitution Ave. NW, between 3rd St. and 7th St. 202-719-5304. capitalpride.org Truckeroo. June 13, July 11, Aug 8 and Sept 12; 11:00 AM11:00 PM at the corner of Half St.and M St. SE. Over 20 food trucks, live music all day, shade and picnic tables and games. truckeroodc.com Celebrate Amber Waves of Grain! Festival. June 14, 10:00 AM-2:00 PM. Join the U.S. Botanic Garden in celebrating Amber Waves of Grain and the wonderful world of wheat. This year’s festival will feature wheat-related activities for all ages. Explore grains with Chef Tania Mercer, learn which types of wheat are best for making different types
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of dough, discover how wheat is used in everyday products like shampoo and concrete, and much, much more. Not to be missed, this year’s festival will cause you to think about wheat in a whole new way! Free, no pre-registration required. United States Botanic Garden Conservatory, 100 Maryland Ave. SW. 202-2258333. usbg.gov Safeway Barbecue Battle. June 21, 11:00 AM-10:00 PM; June 22, 11:00 AM-7:30 PM. $10-$12. Pennsylvania Ave. NW, between 9th & 14th sts. bbqdc.com DC Housing Expo and Home Show. June 21, 10:00 AM3:00 PM. Featuring: home purchase assistance, new affordable housing developments, energy efficient products, remolding and decorating on a dime, free credit reports and one-on-one foreclosure and credit counseling, Free admission. Giveaways all day long. Walter E. Washington Convention Center Smithsonian Folklife Festival. June 25-29 and July 2-6. 11:00 AM-5:30 PM. Evening events at 6:00 PM. Festival features programs on China: Tradition and the Art of Living and Kenya: Mambo Poa! Free entrance. National Mall between 7th and 14th sts. folklife. si.edu/center/festival
OUTDOOR MUSIC & MOVIES Canal Park Outdoor Film Series. Thursday nights (movies begin at sundown-around 8:45 PM). 2014 theme is “It’s a Whole New Ballgame,” and includes sports-related movies of all kinds. June 5, The Sandlot; June 12, Happy Gilmore; June 19, Dodgeball; June 26, Wimbledon; July 10, Balls of Fury; July 17, Space Jam; July 24, Invincible; July 31, Bend it Like Beckham; Aug 7, Rudy; Aug 14, A League of Their Own; Aug 21, The Blind Side; and Sept 4, Moneyball. Movies shown in northern block of Canal Park, 2nd and “Eye” Sts. SE. yardspark.org Golden Cinema Series at Farragut Square. Fridays through June 27 and July 11, pre-show seating starts at 7:30 PM. June 6, Dave; June 13, My Date with the President’s Daughter; June 20, Legally Blonde 2: Red, White, and Blonde; June 27, Annie; July 11, American President. Farragut Square, at the intersections of Connecticut Ave. and K St. NW. goldentriangledc.com War of 1812 Outdoor Concert Series. Fridays, June 6-27, 6:00-7:30 PM. Carlyle House, 121 N. Fairfax St., Alexandria, VA. Suggested donation, $5. 703-549-2997. VisitAlexandriaVA.com/1812
Military Band Concerts at the US Capitol. Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays in summer (weather permitting). 8:00 PM. Mondays, US Navy Band; Tuesdays, US Air Force Band; Wednesdays, US Marine Band; Fridays, US Army Band. Free. West Terrace US Capitol Building. The Sounds of Summer Concert Series at the Botanic Garden. June 12 and 26; July 10 and 24; 5:00-7:00 PM. Evenings in the National Garden are a delight. Come experience the wonder of the USBG’s outdoor garden. Concert is held outdoors. No chairs will be provided. The indoor gardens and related facilities (restrooms) will not be available for use. They suggest bringing chairs/ blankets for sitting, sunscreen, protective clothing and water. The concert will be canceled if it rains. usbg.gov Navy Band “Concerts on the Avenue.” Tuesdays starting June 17, 7:30 PM. US Navy Memorial. The United States Navy Band and its specialty groups will perform. Free. 7th and Penn. Ave. NW. 202-737-2300. navymemorial.org Jazz in the Sculpture Garden. Fridays, through Aug 29 (rain or shine, except July 4), 5:00-8:00 PM. National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden. Live jazz performed by an eclectic mix of top artists from the Washington area entertains visitors outdoors in front of the fountain or in
Marine Barracks Evening Parade Friday evenings through Aug 29 (no parade July 4). Guests admitted starting at 7:00 PM. Guests should be seated by 8:00 PM. Program begins at 8:45 PM. The Evening Parade has become a universal symbol of the professionalism, discipline and Esprit de Corps of the United States Marines. The ceremony begins with a concert by the United States Marine Band. Free. It is wise to have reservations that can be made online at mbw.usmc. mil. Marine Barracks (front gate), 8th and I sts. SE. 202-433-4073.
The U.S. Marine Drum & Bugle Corps sings a cappella a portion of “God Bless America” during a Friday Evening Parade at Marine Barracks Washington.
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NoMa Summer Screen Wednesdays through Aug 20. Movies start at dark and are screened with subtitles. June 4, Silver Linings Playbook; June 11, Midnight in Paris; June 18, Up; June 25, When Harry Met Sally; July 2, Clueless; July 9, The Muppets; July 16, The Perks of Being a Wallflower; July 23, The Dark Knight; July 30, Pitch Perfect; Aug 6, Top Gun; Aug 13, The Sandlot; Aug 20, rain date movie. Movies shown at the field at 2nd and L Sts. NE. Coolers, children and friendly (leashed) dogs are welcome. nomasummerscreen.org NoMa Summer Screen is a free 13-week outdoor film series in NoMa. This year’s theme is “Unlikely Friendships”, complete with coming of age tales, 80’s comedies, and more. Photo: Sam Kittner Photography
the Pavilion Cafe (if it’s raining). The Pavilion Cafe features a seasonal tapas-style menu and bar service during the concerts. Everyone can enjoy these concerts. You do not have to order food or drinks. Free. 202- 289-3360. nga.gov Rosslyn Outdoor Film Festival. Fridays at dusk. June 6, The Devil Wears Prada; June 13, Horrible Bosses; June 20, Thank You For Smoking; June 27, Two Weeks Notice; July 11, The Internship; July 18, How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days; July 25, Up in the Air; Aug 1, Nine to Five; Aug 8, Empire Records; Aug 15, Miss Congeniality; Aug 22, Anchorman. Movies shown at Gateway Park, Lee Highway near Key Bridge. Air Force Band Concerts. Fridays in June, July and Aug. 8:00 PM. Air Force Memorial at One Air Force Memorial Drive in Arlington, VA. (14th St. Bridge into Virginia, merge onto Washington Blvd. and then Columbia Pike in the direction of the Navy Annex. Then follow signs.) Expect a pleasing mix of contemporary and patriotic tunes and spectacular views of the nighttime Washington, DC skyline. Free. airforcememorial.org Rock and Roll Hotel Rooftop Movies. Sundays, 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM. Join them on their rooftop deck for
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Sunday night movies shown on their massive projection screen! Hhappy hour specials all throughout the night, including on our frozen drinks and wings. The rooftop deck has plenty of seating available, but feel free to bring a beach chair and settle in. Free popcorn. rockandrollhoteldc.com
MUSIC
Friday Night Live at National Harbor. Fridays (except July 4) through Sept 19, 6:00-9:00 PM. Performances include local and nationally-touring bands playing a variety of genres: pop, rock, soul, funk, blues, country and jazz. nationalharbor.com
Music at Ebenezers. June 5, Ayreheart; June 7, Lou Dominguez & Davey O--Live in the Coffeehouse; June 12, Matt Munhall, Kiernan McMullan, Max Dvorak; June 13, Jessica Graae & Matt Tarka; June 15, Anna Vogelzang--Live in the Coffeehouse; June 19, Christian Lopez Band; June 26, Flattop Setup, Martina San Diego, Tom Bertram, Shane Meade; June 27, Tiffany Thompson Full Band; June 28, Willie DE--Live in the Coffeehouse. Ebenezers Coffeehouse, 201 F St. NE. 202-558-6900. ebenezerscoffeehouse.com
Free Summer Outdoor Concerts at Strathmore. Wednesdays, June 25-Aug 20, 7:00 PM. Parking is in the Metro garage for $5 with Metro SmarTrip card or major credit card; enter off Tuckerman Lane. Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD. strathmore.org BlackRock Free Summer Concert Series. June 29-July 26, 7:00 PM. The lineup includes The Crawdaddies, The US Navy Band: The Commodores, The Nighthawks, Chopteeth, and Tom Principato. Reservations are not required, but BlackRock encourages patrons to check blackrockcenter. org. Concerts are at BlackRock Center for the Arts, 12901 Town Commons Dr., Germantown, MD.
Music at the Hill Center. June 1, Town Mountain; June 4, violinist and composer Chelsey Green; June 22, Honky Tonk Confidential; June 25, Origem. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. hillcenterdc.org
Music at the Atlas. June 14, Justin Thomas Ritchie’s CD Release Concert; June 27, Go-Go Symphony Capital City Symphony; June 29, Underwater Ghost and Double Date. Atlas performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. 202-3997993. atlasarts.org Music at the Corner Store. June 14, Seth Kibel with Music Pilgrim Trio; June 15, The Georgetown Quintet;
June 20, Jonathan Byrd; June 21, The Pushovers. Corner Store, 900 So. Carolina Ave. SE. 202-544-5807. cornerstorearts.org Matana Roberts’ COIN COIN with the Tarus Mateen Quartet at the Fridge. June 28, 8:00 PM. The Fridge, 516 1/2 8th St. SE (rear alley). HR 57 Weekly Jam Sessions. Wednesdays and Thursdays, 8:00 PM-midnight. Since 1993 HR-57 has provided a place where aspiring musicians gather to learn the history and cultures of the genres of jazz and blues. It’s a venue for the exchange of ideas and information between aspiring and professional musicians, students, aficionados and the general public. $8. 1007 H St. NE. 202-253-0044. hr57.org Church of the Epiphany Weekly Concerts. Every Tuesday, 12:10 PM. Free but free will offering taken. 1317 G ST. NW. 202-347-2635. epiphanydc.org Jazz Night (and fish fry) in Southwest. Fridays, 6:00-9:00 PM. Every Friday night. Expect a large, fun and friendly crowd. Westminster Presbyterian Church, 400 I St. SW (Fourth and I, south side of intersection). The cover is $5. Children are welcome and free under 16 years old. 202484-7700. westminsterdc.org/jazz Blue Monday Blues. Mondays, 6:009:00 PM. Westminster Presbyterian Church. Local musicians perform, and the Southwest Catering Company provides a fish fry from 5:30-8:30 PM. $5/general; free/children under 16. Modestly priced food. 400 I St. SW. 202-484-7700. westminsterdc. org/blues Sunday Gospel Brunch Featuring the Harlem Gospel Choir. Every Sunday, 12:30-2:00 PM. $30-$45. The Howard Theatre, 620 T St. NW. 202803-2899. thehowardtheatre.com
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THEATER AND FILM A Midsummer Night’s Riot at the Keegan. Through June 5. Ross dreams of being the famous professional golfer Rory McIlroy-the Belfast prodigy with the pro tennis player girlfriend. But living in the Cluan Place neighborhood of Belfast means Ross has no cash for golf clubs and no place to practice but in the middle of the nightly street riots. The only ones noticing Ross’ killer swing are the riot police. Keegan Theater, 1742 Church St. NW. 703-892-0202. keegantheatre.com Henry IV, Part 1 at Shakespeare. Through June 7. A young prince must decide between tavern roughhousing and the burden of his father’s legacy, in the coming-of-age story of heroism, corruption and war. STC Artistic Director Michael Kahn directs the masterful Stacy Keach (King Lear, Macbeth) who plays Shakespeare’s beloved character, Falstaff. Shakespeare Theatre Company, Sidney Harman Hall, 610 F St. NW. 202547-1122. shakespearetheatre.org Things You Shouldn’t Say Past Midnight at the Keegan. Through June 7. Tackling questions about sex and the proper balance between intellectual and physical attraction, Things You Shouldn’t Say Past Midnight is a romp about communication, honesty, identity, and how we define-and talk about-ourselves. Keegan Theater, 1742 Church St. NW. 703-8920202. keegantheatre.com Henry IV Part 2 at Shakespeare. Through June 8. Continuing from Henry IV Part 1, Young Prince Hal seeks to prove to his father, King Henry IV (Edward Gero), that he’s ready to the throne by leaving his lowlife behavior behind him. The King’s sudden illness and a bloody war force Hal into action. Shakespeare Theatre Company, Sidney Harman Hall, 610 F St. NW. 202-547-1122. shakespearetheatre.org Smokey Joe’s Café at Arena. Through June 8. Let Broadway director Randy Johnson, (One Night with Janis Joplin),
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transport you to the golden age of Rock, Rhythm and Blues with the hits of Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame legends Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SW. 202-488-3300. arena-stage.org Freud’s Last Session at Theater J. Through June 29. On the day England enters World War II, Freud summons then unknown professor Lewis to his office for an impassioned exchange about God, love, sex, and the meaning of life. Theater J, 1529 16th St. NW. 800 4948497. washingtondcjcc.org Private Lives at Shakespeare. Through July 13. Noël Coward’s fast-talking, manners-breaking comedy makes its STC debut to finish a stellar season. Lansburgh Theatre, 450 7th St. NW. 202-5471122. shakespearetheatre.org The Totalitarians at Woolly. June 2-29. Written by Peter Sinn Nachtrieb, author of Boom, this high-energy farce exposes just how vacuous and absurd our political language has become. If you worship at the altar of Colbert, if you religiously watch “The Daily Show,” you won’t want to miss The Totalitarians. Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, 641 D St. NW. 202-393-3939. woollymammoth.net Puro Tango 2 at GALA. June 5-22. GALA presents Puro Tango 2, a dazzling musical revue with singers and dancers from Argentina and Uruguay, the birthplace of tango. GALA Theatre, 3333 14th St. NW. 202-234-7174. galatheatre.org Twisting the Knife: Hitchcock’s Scary Love Stories at Hill Center. June 6, Dial M for Murder; June 13, I Confess; June 20, Short films. Join them as they explore Hitchcock’s amazing career on Fridays, June 6-20, at 7 p.m. Registration is free and is available online at hillcenterdc. org or call 202-549-4172. Hitchcock became one of the most popular entertainers in America for a number of decades and continues to inspire and challenge filmmakers today. His most famous films never go out of style. Co-sponsored by Friends of the Southeast Library.
PREGNANCY
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OPTIMIZING MIND BODY HEALTH The First & Second Trimester June 29, 2014 2-4 PM At the Hill Center 921 Pennsylvania Ave SE
Grounded at Studio. June 6-29. A hot-shot fighter pilot is reassigned to fly drones in Afghanistan from a trailer outside Vegas in this gripping solo show. This acclaimed production from London’s Gate Theatre was a sold-out hit at the Edinburgh Fringe. Studio Theatre, 1501 14th St. NW. 202-332-3300. studiotheatre.org Lisa Loomer’s comedy, Distracted. June 12-22. Nine-year-old Jesse’s teacher informs the boy’s parents that Jesse may have Attention Deficit Disorder, setting off the parents’ zany quest to improve the child’s quality of life. Associated Press calls the comedy “a smartly comic, sharply observant and surprisingly humane play.” Living in a world where we are bombarded with information, the comedy shines hilarity and light on what really matters. Strong Language and Content. Recommended for ages 16 and up. $29-$32. Atlas performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. 202-399-7993. atlasarts.org
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Clock and Dagger at Signature. June 12-July 6. Third-rate detective Nick Cutter is down on his luck when a beautiful blonde bombshell tosses a very intriguing case (and herself) into his lap. For the next 90 minutes, Nick races through every New York neighborhood in this zany, mile-a-minute whodunit. Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Ave. off I-395 at the Shirlington exit (#6). signature-theatre.org How the Movies View Washington, DC. June 18, 7 p.m. Reading with Mike Canning as part of Literary Hill BookFest. Northeast Neighborhood Library, 330 7th St. NE. 202-6980058. dclibrary.org/northeast “Enter Ophelia, Distracted” at CHAW. June 20, 21, 27 and 28, 8:00 PM. Beneath all the plotting, the spying, the machinations in the court, while Hamlet is pretending to be mad to get closer to what he
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wants, a very real tragedy is slowly unfolding right before everyone’s eyes and no one notices. Until it’s too late. Ophelia’s story is the key to Hamlet’s. Her actions are a direct and stark antithesis to his. “Enter Ophelia, distracted” will combine the striking intensity of actor Kimberly Gilbert, with the refined and investigative choreography of Erin Mitchell, immersed in a sea of music and sound to expose the inner and outer workings of Ophelia’s self. $15 and available at taffetypunk.com. For more information, visit chaw.org or call 202-547-6839.
SPORTS & FITNESS Washington Nationals Baseball. May 31 and June 1, 3, 4, 5, 17, 18, 19,20, 21, 22 and 30 at Nat’s Park. Tickets, $5, up. washington.nationals.mlb.com Pups in the Park. June 22 and Sept 7. Purchase a discounted ticket for you, your family and your favorite family pet and support the Washington Humane Society. $10 of every dog ticket purchased will benefit the Washington Humane Society. $25 for you; $10 for your dog. washington.nationals.mlb.com Washington Mystics Basketball. June 1, 6, 10, 13, 15 and 27. Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. wnba.com/mystics DC Front Runners Pride 5K Run. June 6, 7:00 PM. A race of friendly competition, evening of community and celebration, and an Official Event of Capital Pride at Congressional Cemetery. dcfrontrunners.org DC United at RFK. June 7, 7:00 PM vs. Columbus; June 28, 7:00 PM vs. Seattle. RFK Stadium. dcunited.com PurpleStride Washington, D.C. 2014. June 14, 6:30 AM ay Freedom Plaza.. This 5K run and family-friendly walk takes participants on a journey of hope and inspiration through the heart of our nation’s capital. With children’s activities, entertainment, refreshments and
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more, there is something for everyone to enjoy! purplestride.kintera.org XXIV Lawyers Have Heart 10K, 5K & Fun Walk. June 14, 7:00 AM. Lawyers Have Heart is Washington’s largest 10K race. The annual event was co-founded in 1991 by Richard Frank, Founder and Senior Principal of Olsson Frank Weeda Terman Matz PC and Alan Charles Raul, Partner at Sidley Austin, LLP as a way the Washington legal community could unite annually in support of the American Heart Association. More than $9 million has been raised for research. lawyershaveheartdc.org Free public tennis courts in Ward Six. King Greenleaf Recreation Center, 201 N St. SW; Garfield Park, Third and G sts. SE; Randall Park First and I sts. SW; Rosedale Recreation Center, 1701 Gales St. NE; Sherwood Recreation Center, 640 10th St. NE. All courts are open daily, dawn to dusk. Some are lighted for extended evening play. Courts are available on a first-come, first-served basis for onehour intervals; extended use of tennis courts requires a permit. Proper shoes and attire is required. 202-671-0314. dpr.dc.gov/dpr DC Public Outdoor Pools. Nearby outdoor pools are East Potomac Pool at 972 Ohio Dr. SW; Randall Pool at South Capitol and I Sts. SW; and Rosedale Pool at 1701 Gales St. NE. All outdoor pools are open weekends, noon-6:00 PM. Weekday hours are 1:00-8:00 PM (after June 18). Every pool is closed one day a week for cleaning and maintenance. All pools are free for DC residents. Have picture ID. dpr.dc.gov Tidal Basin 3K Monthly Run. Third Wednesday of each month at noon. This run is free and informal. West Potomac Park (meet on Ohio Dr. at West Basin Dr., near the Tourmobile stand). 703-5053567. dcroadrunners.org Woodrow Wilson Bridge Half Marathon. Oct 5. Registration now open. 703-587-4321. wilsonbridgehalf.com
June Performances
SCENA Theatre Happy Days by Samuel Beckett June 7 - July 5 Featuring Helen Hayes Award® winner Nancy Robinette! Trapped, yet happygo-lucky Winnie struggles to uncover meaning in her static, lonely life. Literally stuck with an aloof husband, all she has left are memories, routines, and words—which seem to fail. HAPPY DAYS reveals the absurdity we all grapple with in our ridiculous little lives. Don’t miss one of DC’s finest actresses, in this darkly comic Beckett classic.
Arcturus Theater Company Lisa Loomer’s Comedy, Distracted June 12-22 Nine-year-old Jesse’s teacher informs the boy’s parents that Jesse may have Attention Deficit Disorder, setting off the parents’ zany quest to improve the child’s quality of life. Living in a world where we are bombarded with information, the comedy shines hilarity and light on what really matters.
Capital City Symphony Go-Go Symphony! June 27 After playing to sold-out audiences during the 2014 INTERSECTIONS Festival, Capital City Symphony returns with two performances of Go-Go Symphony! DC’s iconic Go-Go beat drives this exciting concert that combines a classical symphony with video art, a Go-Go beat, and dancers. Conducted by John Devlin and featuring music by Liza Figueroa Kravinsky and Peter Van Siclen, with a special appearance from Guest MC Head-Roc
Atlas Performing Arts Center 1333 H Street, NE Washington, DC 20002
For tickets/information call 202.399.7993 ext 2 or go to atlasarts.org June 2014 H 29
Marine Corps Marathon Registration. Register online at marinemarathon.com. Marathon is Sunday, Oct 26. Annual Hope for the Homeless Golf Tournament (save the date). Sept 22, 1:30 PM. Tournament at the Glenn Dale Country Club benefits the Capital Hill Group Ministry. chgm.net
MARKETS Lions Flea Market in Palisades. June 1 (rain or shine), 10:00 AM-¬4:00 PM in the Wells Fargo Bank parking lot at MacArthur Blvd. and Arizona Ave. NW. The Palisades¬Georgetown Lions Club raises funds from this event and others such as the Christmas Tree sale to support organizations ranging from charities to schools to the Lions Foundation.
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in North Arlington, VA. ClarendonMarket.com Penn Quarter FRESHFARM Market. Thursdays through Dec 18, 3:00-¬7:00 PM. North end of 8th St., between D and E, NW. freshfarmmarket.org Aya Community Markets @ SW Waterfront. Saturdays, through Nov 22, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM at 900 4th St. SW on the grounds of Christ United Methodist Church. dreamingoutloud.net RFK Stadium Farmers’ Market. Open Saturdays, year ¬round (weather permitting), 8:00 AM¬-3:00 PM. The market also has merchandise vendors. It can be seen in the RFK parking lot from the interestion of Benning Rd. and Oklahoma Ave. NE. Branch Avenue Pawn Parking Lot Flea Market. Saturdays. Set up (depending on the weather) after 10:00 AM. 3128 Branch Ave., Temple Hills, MD
The Route 1 Farmers Market & Bazaar. Saturdays, 8:00 AM-2:00 PM and every first Friday, 4:00 PM8:00 PM. June 6-Sept 27. Located in the Prince George’s County Gateway Arts District at 4100 Rhode Island Ave. in Brentwood, MD.
Fresh Tuesdays at Eastern Market. Every Tuesday, 3:00¬-7:00 PM. Tuesday afternoon farmers’ line of fresh produce. Eastern Market, 200 block of 7th St. SE. 202-¬698-¬5253. easternmarket¬dc.com
H Street FRESHFARM Market. Saturdays, 9 AM¬noon, through Dec 20. The H Street Market is celebrating it’s 10th anniversary this year. SNAP (EBT/ Food Stamps) accepted. 13th and H Sts. NE. freshfarmmarket.org
Union Market. Tuesday¬Friday, 11:00 AM-¬8:00 PM; Saturday¬Sunday, 8:00 AM-¬8:00 PM. Union Market is an artisanal, curated, year¬round food market featuring over 40 local vendors. 1309 5th St. NE. 301¬652¬7400. unionmarketdc.com
Grant Avenue (flea) Market in Takoma Park. June 8, Sept 14 and Oct 12, 10:00 AM-3:00 PM. The market is at the intersection of Grant Ave. and Carroll Ave. in Takoma Park, MD with antiques, collectibles and funky finds. grantavenuemarket.com
Eastern Market. Daily except Mondays and important holidays. Weekdays, 7:00 AM-¬7:00 PM; Saturdays, 7:00 AM-¬5:00 PM; Sundays, 9:00 AM-¬5:00 PM. Flea market and arts and crafts market open Saturdays and Sundays, 9:00 AM-¬6:00 PM. Eastern Market is Washington’s last continually operated “old world” market. On weekends the market area comes alive with farmers bringing in fresh produce, craft and flower vendors, artists, a flea market and street musicians. 200 block of 7th St. SE. 202-¬698¬5253. easternmarket¬dc.com
U Street Flea. Saturdays and Sundays, 10:00 AM5:00 PM. The U Street Flea features a diverse mix of art, crafts, fashion, jewelry, imports, antiques, collectibles, furniture, and more. The market is in the parking lot, next to Nellie’s Sports Bar (three blocks east of U Street Metro), at 912 U St. NW. ustreetflea.com Clarendon Night Market. Alternate Saturdays, May 17-Oct 25, 3:00-9:00 PM. It features a diverse mix of art, crafts, fashion, jewelry, imports, antiques, collectibles, furniture, and more. Bistro lights will be strung among the tents creating a festive evening shopping bazaar. It is in the Wells Fargo Bank parking lot, 3140 N. Washington Blvd. at the intersection of Washington, Wilson and Clarendon Blvds
Anacostia Big Chair Flea Market. Saturdays, 10:00 AM-¬4:00 PM. The market features a diverse mix of art, crafts, imports, antiques, collectibles and furniture. The market will also feature local specialty food items such as fruits and vegetables, flowers, preserves, prepared foods and beverages. 2215 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE. bigchairmarket.com Dupont Circle Farmers Market. Sundays year round (rain or shine), 9:00 AM-¬1:00 PM. The Wall Street
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Faction of Fools Theatre Company’s Titus Andronicus Through June 22. Seneca’s grisly Roman tragedies came back into vogue during the Renaissance, and Commedia dell’Arte players included their own violent delights in their repertoire of shows. $25-$10. In the Elstad Auditorium at Gallaudet University, 800 Florida Ave. NE. factionoffools.org/titus William Shakespeare’s Titus Andronicus, through June 22. Presented at Gallaudet University’s Eastman Studio Theatre. Photo: Second Glance Photography
Journal and The Financial Times of London named the market one of the top farmers’ markets in the country. During the peak season, there are more than 30 farmers offering fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, cheeses, fruit pies, breads, fresh pasta, cut flowers, potted plants, soaps and herbal products. 20th St. and Mass. Ave. NW, 1500 block of 20th St. NW (between Mass. Ave. and Q St. in the adjacent parking lot of PNC Bank). 202-¬362-¬8889. freshfarmmarket.org Georgetown Flea Market. Sundays year around (except in the case of very inclement weather), 8:00 AM¬-4:00 PM. The crowd is as diverse as the items for sale! Antiques, collectibles, art, furniture, rugs, pottery, china, jewelry, silver, stained glass, books and photographs are an example of the available items. 1819 35th St. NW. 202¬-7750-¬3532. georgetownfleamarket.com Maine Avenue Fish Market. Open 365 days a year. 7:00 AM-¬9:00 PM. 1100 Maine Ave. SW. 202-¬484-¬2722.
CIVIC LIFE All Politics is Local with Tom Sherwood: A Conversation with David Catania. June 16, 7:00-9:00 PM. David
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Catania, At-Large, Independent DC Councilmember, was first elected in 1997. He is the Chairman of the Council’s Committee on Education and serves on the Committees on Health, Finance and Revenue, and Government Operations. Tom Sherwood has been a reporter at NBC4 for 24 years. He is co-author of “Dream City: Race, Power and the Decline of Washington, D.C.” He is a Navy Reserve veteran, having served his active duty at the Washington Navy Yard. Mark Segraves is a reporter for NBC 4 News, Host of NewsPlus on DC 50 TV, and Senior Correspondent for WNEW Radio. Segraves is a former writer for Voice of the Hill and The Hill Rag. Free. Register online at hillcenterdc.org or call 202-549-4172. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. Grosso Near You (informal) Meeting. First Thursday, 8:00-9:30 AM, Pound the Hill, 621 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. The meetings will provide the opportunity for constituents to bring ideas and issues directly to Councilmember Grosso as part of an effort to make the DC Council more accessible. Free. Register online at hillcenterdc.org or call 202-549-4172 Congresswoman Norton’s NW District Office. Open weekdays, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM. 529 14th St. NW, suite 900. 202-783-5065. norton.house.gov
ANC 6A. Second Thursday, 7:00 PM. Meeting at Miner Elementary School, 601 15th St. NE. 202-423-8868. anc6a.org ANC 6B. Second Tuesday, 7:00 PM. Meeting at Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-543-3344. anc6b.org ANC 6C. Second Wednesday, 7:00 PM. Meeting at Heritage Foundation, 214 Mass. Ave. NE, first floor conference room. 202-547-7168. anc6c.org ANC 6D. Second Monday, 7:00 PM. Meeting at 1100 4th St. SW, DCRA meeting room, 2nd floor. 202-554-1795. anc6d.org ANC 6E. First Tuesday, 6:30 PM. Meeting at NW One Library, 155 L St. NW. anc6e.org ◆
momentum dance & fitness studio • Adult Classes: Ballet, Barre Fitness, Bollywood, Classic Jazz, Hip Hop, Pilates, High Heels, Salsa, Zumba. • Your boutique dance studio on the Hill: Smaller classes, personal attention, professional teachers, community setting. • Performances, arts events, dance parties, flashmobs. • Home of Momentum Dance Theatre & the Jazz Hip Hop Nutcracker© • Also: Dance training for children & teens: graded classes in jazz, hip hop, ballet, Bollywood, creative movement + performance.
534 8th St SE (upper) 202.785.0035 momentumdanceandfitness.com momentumdancetheatre@verizon.net
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Summertime in DC
Congress is Out and the Living is Easy
I
f you feel “stuck” in Washington, DC for the summer, you’re just not doing it right. DC and the surrounding area is a remarkable place to be in the heat and swelter of summer. In addition to which, the place is full of new faces--interns, vacationers, students and job seekers. For those of us who live here, summertime in Washington also offers opportunities to play the tourist, revisit favorite sites, see Andrew Wyeth’s windows at the NGA, bike to Mount Vernon, take a dip in the Chesapeake Bay and generally enjoy what people come from all over the world to enjoy. We’re offering you some suggestions to make this summer memorable.
by Kathleen Donner play in American theater. $50. kennedy-center.org Standupcomedytogo.com has a weekly opportunity for amateurs to make fools of themselves in their “The Laughing Buddha-ha-ha” Comedy Open Mic on Thursdays at 8 p.m., at the Topaz Hotel Bar, 1733 N St. NW. It’s a free (you’ll have to buy drinks) show with 10 local comedians doing 3 to 10 minute bits (remember Seinfeld). After the show, “Everyone’s a Comedian” and “non-
Have a Good Laugh The Capitol Steps began as a group of Hill staffers who set out to satirize the very people who employed them. The group was formed in December, 1981 when staffers for Illinois Senator Charles Percy were planning a Christmas party. Their first idea was to stage a nativity play, but they said they “couldn’t find three wise men or a virgin.” Since then, they’ve been ruthlessly poking fun at the Washington political scene. They perform every Friday and Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. at the Ronald Reagan Building. Tickets are $40.50. Get them at ticketmaster.com/artist/844674. It’s corny but it’s also lots of fun. Shear Madness at the Kennedy Center is a comedy whodunit that lets the audience solve the crime. Set in Georgetown, Shear Madness engages the audience members as armchair detectives to help solve the murder of a famed concert pianist who lives above the Shear Madness hairstyling salon. The Kennedy Center claims that it’s the second longest running
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You’ve been randomly selected by TSA. Photo: Jenny Abreu
coms” can get up and tell a joke. Best joke gets $25 which is also the price of the valet parking. Must be 21 and older.
Break Bad (for repressed boomers) First, scout your location. Rumor has it that a certain member of the Capital Community News editorial staff used the Federal Reserve fountains (enormous black granite urns with water spilling
over into circular bases for racing) for this kind of mischief some decades ago. We’re not sure what has changed in the intervening years, but running naked (or not) in DC’s fountains is a great 3 o’clock in the morning activity. A few things--don’t be intoxicated, please get into shape (see section below), have some cash in your wallet and we’re not responsible. Whether or not you get away with it, you won’t go to prison and it will make a great story. To crash a party properly, you have to look the part. The better you look, the less likely you are to be challenged. Some have been known to have a wine glass in their car to pull out for just this occasion. When you walk in with the glass, you’re returning to the party. Your cellphone is, however, your best ally. Think VEEP’s Selina Meyer (Meyer the liar) signaling her bodyman to say the President’s calling. No one interferes with an intent cellphone conversation. The trick is to lean in and pretend it’s the President or Hillary or that you’re the Ukraine Desk Officer at State. As you pass the gatekeeper, whisper “I’m holding for the secretary.” Remember if you believe it, they’ll believe it. Parties worth chasing are all around in hotel ballrooms, museums, restaurants, the convention center and function rooms in the House and Senate office buildings. There are people in this town who never buy their own dinner and drinks. Don’t donate your old car, wreck it. The Potomac Speedway is the venue for the Silver Hill Lions Club Demolition Derby on Sept. 6 and 13 at 7 p.m. (gates open at 5:30 p.m.). We figure that this gives you enough time to decorate your car, screw up your courage and enter. The big winners take home trophies and cash prizes. Go to silver-
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weekly walks. dcfrontrunners.org Golf will help you get in shape only if you practice a lot and avoid golf carts. Get Golf Ready is a fast and affordable ($99) way to get connected to the game of golf. You get six hours of group instruction from a teaching professional covering everything you need to know to get you ready for the golf course. Full swing, short game, even rules and etiquette; you’ll get it all. Get Golf Ready is offered at Langston, East Potomac and Rock Creek courses. We’re It’s important to make a good impression at the Derby. sure it’s unfair but there are also Women’s Wednesdays at all three hilllionsclub.com for entry details and many paggolf courses with special $25 workshops and special es of competition rules. For spectators, tickets are greens fees. Langston and East Potomac have driv$18; $9 for kids 10 and under and $25 for pit passes. ing ranges where you can go after dinner and hit All profits are used to support Lions Club commua few balls without finding a golf pal or making a nity service projects. Potomac Speedway is about huge time commitment. Get details at golfdc.com. an hour south of DC, the Potomac Speedway is at 27963 Budds Creek Rd., Mechanicsville, MD
Get Into Shape (finally, at last) There’s no excuse. DC’s Parks and Recreation Department has 18 fitness centers located throughout the city. Fitness Centers feature elliptical, stationary bikes, treadmills, free weights (dumbbells and kettlebells), and universal weight machine (leg extentions, leg curls, lat pull downs, seated rows, flat and incline chest press, military press, bicep curls and tricep press downs). Oh my! All the centers require a paid individual, family or senior membership for access privileges. You can sign up for a day at $5, a month at $25, a quarter at $60 or a year $125 (little more than $10 a month). There’s a significant senior discount. Find the center closest to you at dpr.dc.gov. DC Front Runners is a running, walking and social club serving the LGBT community and their friends for over 30 years. Membership is open to all people regardless of age, gender, race, pace or sexual orientation. Founded by a small group of local gay runners in 1981, the DC Front Runners has become a thriving and integral part of the Washington, DC gay and lesbian community and has fostered fun, fitness, and friendship among gay runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. If running sounds like too much at first, the club also organizes
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Reconnect with Your Inner Fish If you been lumbering around in the water like a wounded flounder, maybe it’s time to lift your game. Remember, it’s a glide! The excellent staff at DC public pools are eager to sort you out--both
non-swimmers and self-taught flailers. Swimming lessons are a bargain at $10 for a beginners course. Sign up at dpr.dc.gov or ask at your closest pool. Water Country USA in Williamsburg is Virginia’s largest waterpark. It features more than 30 water attractions. It can also be used as a refreshing detour during a history-laden family trip to Colonial Williamsburg. It’s pricy at $42-$49 a day but it’s a complete day’s entertainment. $99 buys you a season pass. Read more at watercountryusa.com. Closer to home, we like Great Waves Waterpark in Cameron Run Regional Park, 4001 Eisenhower Ave., Alexandria, just off the beltway. It features 20 acres of pools, waterslides, great food, cool souvenirs, miniature golf, a nine-station batting cage and picnic shelters. Great Waves is open daily through Labor Day, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Weekday rates are $11.75 if you’re under 4 feet and $14.75 if you’re over 4 feet. Add $.50 for weekends. Read more at greatwaveswaterpark.com. Thirty-five miles away are Chesapeake Beach and North Beach on the Chesapeake Bay. These beaches are ideal because (1) they don’t involve a three hour drive and (2) you don’t have to strategize about Bay Bridge traffic. They also are seem quieter and more charming than the ocean beaches in the summer. It’s a easy outing where there’s bay swimming, a crab dinner, a scoop shop ice cream cone and home before dark. Done. There’s
Trainer Emmanuel Jeudy, Sr. with exercisers Bernard Moore and D’Angelo Andrews at Turkey Thicket Fitness Center. Photo: Kathleen Donner
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also a lot of charter fishing but make arrangements before your leave at chesapeake-beach.md.us.
Listen to the Music
a line of cars on the way in and a line of cars on the way out. You’ll be rewarded with symphonic music, musical theater, dance, comedy, folk music, jazz, a singalong “Grease”, and names such as YoYo Ma, Mary Chapin Carpenter; Diana Ross, Lionel Richie, Sarah Brightman and Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band. As a bonus, you can bring your own picnic (including alcohol). Wolf Trap is about a hour away. From I-66 westbound, take exit 67 to route 267 (Dulles Toll Road), follow signs for local exits, pay a $2.50 toll, and exit at the Wolf Trap ramp. wolftrap.org
In summer, every night of the week, you can spread out a blanket or relax in a folding chair and listen to out-of-doors live music. You’re always invited to bring along a picnic, kids, and well-behaved (leashed) pets. It’s a Washington area ritual and you don’t want to miss it. Hear live music outside at the Capitol, Fort Dupont, the Sylvan Theater, Fort Reno, the Botanic Garden, the Navy Memorial, the Sculpture Garden at the National Children splash and play in the waters of Rock ‘N’ Roll Island at Water Country USA. Photo: Courtesy of Water Country USA Gallery of Art, and the Air Force Wax Nostalgic for Jolly Olde Memorial. Throughout the sumDC Touch Rugby games are Satmer, pay attention to the Calendar urdays at 10 a.m. and are currently played on in this publication for details. We also list movthe National Mall, on the west side of the Washies shown outdoors throughout the area. ington Monument. Here’s how they describe We know this is going to sound quite esoterthemselves. “We are a group of (male and feic but for people who love early music, it’s heavmale) rugby fans that like to meet on Saturdays en. On the weekend of June 2-22, there is a “Bato play an informal and very much social game roque Bonanza” concert series at Church of of touch rugby. Touch is a fast-paced and fun the Epiphany, 1317 G St. NW. It is three congame that is suitable for all ages and skill levelscerts featuring six different ensembles perform-and it’s a great way to meet people and stay fit. ing on period instruments. On Friday, June 20, Some of us have played rugby for many years, 8 p.m., two groups will perform music of C.P.E. some converts from flag football and others are Bach, Boyce, Fasch, Telemann and Zelenka: completely new to the game. We always welModern Musick directed by Risa Browder and come new people to the group so please join John Moran and Kleine Kammermusik featurthis blog and stay updated with the latest game Ensemble Gaudior (left to right): Elena Tsai, Alexandra ing oboists Geoffrey Burgess and Meg Owens. MacCracken (director), Doug Poplin, Marta Howard. info!” Catch up with this group at dctouchrugPhoto: Suna Lee On Saturday, June 21, 8 p.m. two groups will by.com. perform music of J.C. and C.P.E. Bach, The Willard Hotel says that their Graun, Dornel, and Boismortier: EnsemPeacock Alley Tea is the best in town and ble Gaudior directed by Alexandra Macthey’re right. Tea is served Friday, SaturCracken and The Friends of Fasch, directday and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. and feaed by Thomas MacCracken. On Sunday, tures live harp music, an array of organic June 22, 4 p.m., two groups will perform teas, finger sandwiches and fresh decadent music of Croft, Handel, Kusser, LaGuerre pastries in an elegant setting. You must and Philidor: ArcoVoce strings and voice dress. It’s pricy but worth it at $45 ($59 featuring soprano Rosa Lamoreaux and with champagne). You’ll find the menu Sarabande featuring oboists Sarah Davoll on their website at washington.interconand Sarah Weiner. Tickets are $25 ($15 tinental.com. for students and seniors) at the door only. Through Jan. 4, 2015, Costumes of Nothing says summer like an evening Downton Abbey is on display at Winat Wolf Trap and their stupendous lineterthur. This is an original exhibition of up. To really enjoy it you have to incorpodesigns from the television series. Forty Nick Briggs, Carnival Film and Television Limited 2012 rate into your thinking that there will be historically inspired costumes from the
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seum in St. Michael’s, open daily 10 a.m.-6 p.m., is also worth a visit. St. Michaels is about two hours away depending on bridge traffic. townofstmichaels.com Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, about a hour and a half away, is the site of the John Brown raid which precipitated the Civil War. It was visited by George Washington on his very first surveying expedition at the age of 17, was cited by Thomas Jefferson as such a beautiful spot that it was worth a trip across the Atlantic and was the starting place of the Lewis and Clarke expedition. It’s full of history. It’s also a charming small town to visit and a jumping off point for tubing and kayaking. Read more at historicharpersferry.com. Harpers Ferry from Maryland Heights. Photo: Don Burgess
television show are displayed and supplemented by photographs and vignettes inspired by the fictional program and by real life at Winterthur. Visitors have the chance to step into and experience the world of Downton Abbey and the contrasting world of Winterthur founder Henry Francis du Pont and his contemporaries in the first half of the 20th century. Winterthur, 5105 Kennett Pike (Route 52), Winterthur (Wilmington), DE, is open daily except Mondays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (last ticket sold at 3:15 p.m.). winterthur.org
Venture Farther Afield Three hours away (south past Richmond), Colonial Williamsburg beckons. It is the world’s largest living history museum--the restored 18th-century capital of Britain’s largest, wealthiest, and most populous outpost of empire in the New World. Here they interpret the origins of the idea of America, conceived decades before the American Revolution. There are hundreds of restored, reconstructed, and historically furnished buildings in
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Williamsburg’s 301 acres historic area. Costumed interpreters tell the stories of the men and women of the 18th-century city--black, white, and native American, slave, indentured, and free. Single day tickets are $22-$43.95. You can wander Williamsburg freely but if you want to talk with the blacksmith, you need a pass. colonialwilliamsburg.com For our readers who remember the Williamsburg Pottery Factory, we have some bad news. It is no longer the dirt-floored collection of run-down buildings that strattle the railroad tracks. It’s been moved to a different location, cleaned up and put totally indoors and not nearly as much fun. williamsburgpottery.com The town of St. Michaels on Maryland’s Eastern Shore is another place we recommend for a day trip. We also recommend that you visit when nothing’s happening and wander the cluster of perfectly groomed houses on the park in the center of town. Then lunch at the legendary Crab Claw Restaurant, 304 Burns Street, on the water. Sit outside. The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Mu-
Don’t Miss the Classics Every local knows that the best time to visit the monuments is after dark. It’s cooler and the crowds have calmed down a bit. Go after 9 o’clock and it’s easy to park on Ohio Drive. By monuments, we mean the Lincoln, the Jefferson, the Washington, the FDR and MLK. The Washington Monument, open until 10 p.m. during summer, only counts if you go to the top which you now can because it just reopened for visitors. Make a reservation at recreation.gov. Unfortunately, the Jefferson, which may be the most powerful of them all, has inconvenient parking a good walk from the memorial itself. At the Lincoln, don’t miss reading his second Inaugural Address (on the right facing Lincoln) which is considered the best Presidential Inaugural Address ever delivered. The Changing of the Guard at Arlington Cemetery is a must-experience for all visitors and residents. During the summer, the ceremony takes place on the hour and the half-hour. At this time, a uniformed relief commander appears on the plaza to announce the Changing of the Guard. This
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On the White House Tour, you’ll see this corridor but President Obama won’t be in it. He has been known to pop out of a doorway and greet visitors but your odds are probably the same as winning a lottery.
An Evening With Ellen McCarthy The new Director of the DC Office of Planning
Ms. McCarthy, will share her views and the OP outlook on development and the zoning regulations rewrite, highlighting the Capitol Hill area. The event will be preceded by a brief Membership Meeting.
Wednesday, June 4 - 7 to 8:30 p.m. The HillCenter, 921 Pennsylvania Ave SE No reservations required
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is a moving and precise tribute to all the fallen whose remains are missing or unidentified. The view from the site is breathtaking. In summer the cemetery is open to visitors from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Take Metro or you can park for $1.75 a hour in the lot across from the Visitors’ Center. arlingtoncemetery.mil You can take a self-guided White House tour, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 7:30-11:30 a.m.; and Fridays and Saturdays, 7:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. (excluding federal holidays). Tour requests are submitted through your Member of Congress. Requests can be submitted up to six months in advance and no less than 21 days in advance. You are encouraged to submit your request as early as possible as a limited number of spaces are available. The US Capitol tour, daily except Sunday, 8:50 a.m.-3:20 p.m., is a walkin but you can also book in advance with your Member or Senator. The Supreme Court is open to the public Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., excluding federal holidays. Courtroom Lectures are available Monday through Friday. On days that the Court is not sitting, lectures are generally scheduled every-hour on the half-hour beginning at 9:30 a.m. with a final lecture at 3:30 p.m. When the Court is in session, Courtroom Lectures are available only after Court adjourns for the day. Trained Docents lead these 30-minute programs, which are designed to introduce visitors of all ages to the judicial functions of the Supreme Court, the history of the Building, and the architecture of the Courtroom. To obtain updated information, call 202-479-3211 or visit supremecourt.gov. u
Celebrate DC Flag Day!
#DCFlagDay
Sat. June 14
Grab your DC Flag & Camera. Enter Your DC Flag Photo in the 2014 Competition! Show off your DC love with a photo of your DC flag (maybe even your DC flag tattoo!) And what gets people more excited than a little friendly competition, the prospect of having your picture selected to be published in your local paper, and great prizes donated by favorite local businesses! The photo contest will run the week of Monday, June 9th and end on Saturday, June 14. Share your photos the following ways: Twitter: use the hashtag #DCFlagDay Email: send to DCFlagDay@gmail.com Facebook: post your picture at www.facebook.com/DCFlagDay
LOOKING FOR AN IDEA? Try out these DC Flag Day Themes: DC icon photo (take your picture hoisting a DC flag at notable spots like Eastern Market, Yards Park, Congressional Cemetery, O Street Market, or any of your favorite local spots) School spirit photo (get pictures from your local schools with all the kids with DC flags) Friends and Family photo (take a picture on your front porch or at the park holding up your DC flag - and yes, pets are part of the family!) Winning photos will be published in July The Hill Rag, East of the River and MidCity DC Newspapers. Check the www.facebook.com/DCFlagDay for prizes. June 2014 H 45
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Bulletin Board Capitol Hill Village and Results the Gym Announce Partnership Capitol Hill Village and Results Gym announced a new partnership designed to encourage CHV members to remain socially and physically active. CHV members will enjoy a 20% discount on all Results Gym memberships. Results will also waive its enrollment fee for CHV members who join Results by July 1 (or within 60 days of becoming CHV members.) Capitol Hill Village’s mission is to provide activities and services that allow Hill residents to remain physically, intellectually and socially engaged as they grow older. “We also provide the support services members need in order to age in their own homes and community,” said Roberta Shapiro, CHV Executive Director. “Our new CHV me Photo: Jumber Mike Cann partnership with Results will save CHV meming at Re dith V. M sults. ay bers more than $500 per couple/$240 per individual annually. We hope that these significant savings will encourage CHV members to get off the couch and engage in activities that promote healthy aging. We believe that Results is a perfect partner. Results not only offers excellent facilOutdoor ities, classes, training staff, and a convenient location, but it atFitness in the tracts membership across a wide range of age groups, not just the Capitol Riverfront under-30 crowd typical of so many fitness centers.” Through August, the Capitol Riverfront According to Brian Moody, VP of Operations, “The Results BID and VIDA Fitness are hosting “Get Fit team is delighted to reach out to Capitol Hill Village’s nearly for Summer Workouts” on the boardwalk of 400 members. We want to be part of our community and believe Yards Park, 355 Water St, SE. Free and open that we can play a special role in supporting fitness and health to the public, the fitness classes are offered as people age. Our newly renovated facility provides a range of Monday through Saturday. Class schedules equipment and classes aimed at stretching, strengthening, flexiwill be revised each month based on particbility, maintaining bone density and balance. Specially trained ipant interest, and will be updated on the Results staff can offer rehabilitation-oriented training and nuCapitol Riverfront BID online events caltritional counseling.”
endar at capitolriverfront.org. The following classes can be enjoyed through June: Monday, 6:30-7:30 p.m., V-Boot Camp; Tuesday, 7-8 a.m., Boot Camp and 5:45-6:45 p.m., Sunset Yoga; Wednesday, 6:30-7:30 p.m., V-Boot Camp; Thursday, 6:30-7:30 a.m., Sunrise Yoga and 5:30-6:30 p.m.; Friday, noon-1 p.m., Vinyasa Yoga; and Saturday, 10-11 a.m. Boot Camp.
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ern Market Community Advisory Committee (EMCAC), an advisory neighborhood commission of Market stakeholders.
Anacostia Community Museum’s Summer Soiree
The SW Dog Park construction has started.
District Plans to Close 300 Block of Seventh Street The District government has readied plans to close the 300 block of Seventh St. SE on Saturdays and Sundays. Final arrangements are awaiting the disposition of Hine court case. The street closure will ensure the continued operation of the private flea markets that have historically thrived in the Hine School parking lot. Final Arrangements Awaiting the Disposition of Hine Court Case. “During the Zoning Commission process on the Hine School Development there was a significant concern raised about the survival of the open air markets and the overall continuation of a vibrant, people-driven commercial environment while the construction was happening,” states ANC 6B Vice Chair Commissioner Ivan Frishberg (6B02). “After a lot of public comment and community engagement, the plan that was approved by the Zoning Commission and supported by the ANC was to use the 300 block of Seventh street during construction, providing slightly less space than there is now for Sunday market operating at capacity, but not having a complete withdrawal from the kind of sprawling, engaging street scene we now expect over much of the year,” Frishberg said. The two markets will operate under individual contracts with the DC Department of General Services (DGS). Barry Margeson, DGS’s Eastern Market Interim Manager, will be signing off on their plans for street vending in consultation with the Hine Community Advisory Committee and East-
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The Anacostia Community Museum presents an evening of dancing, and great food celebrating the rich culture of Washington, DC at the Summer Soiree on Friday, June 6 at 7 p.m. at the Smithsonian Castle, 1000 Jefferson Dr. SW. Getting the party started is the legendary 3rd Generation Band reprising their popular R&B/contemporary music performances that kept the crowd coming back for 20 years to the recently-closed Engine Room at the SW Waterfront’s Channel Inn. The fun heightens with a hand dancing competition, showcasing DC’s official dance. The soiree also features a silent auction. The Summer Soiree promises to please so put on your dancing shoes, dress to impress and come ready to party. All proceeds support Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum. Attire: Cocktail. Tickets: $150. For more information or ticket purchase, please call 202-633-4875 or email ACMinfo@si.edu.
Community Vision Cruise on the Anacostia River On Monday, June 16, 6-8 p.m., join NSC Partners for a Community Cruise on the Anacostia River on a vintage 1928 Chesapeake Bay boat. Enjoy food provided by Aqua 301 and dessert by Ice Cream Jubilee. Every paid attendee will be entered to win a pair of tickets to the Washington Nationals vs the Atlanta Braves later this season. Scott Kratz, Director of the 11th Street Bridge Park Project, will be on hand to share unique engineering renderings from the deck of the Half Shell as it glides under the actual proposed span. Leaders of other groups working for a clean Anacostia River and for youth environmental education can answer your questions about our community’s unique, watery “front yard”. This is a rare opportunity to get a closeup look of renderings with the actual span in the background. Space is limited so tickets will go quickly. Tickets are $60 and available online at eventbrite.com.
DC Outdoor Public Pools Open Memorial Day Weekend DC Outdoor Public Pools Open will be open weekends only until school is out. On Thursday, June 18, pools will be open six days a week through summer. All outdoor pools are open weekends, noon-6 p.m. Weekday hours are 1-8 p.m. Every pool is closed one day a week for cleaning and maintenance. One pool will not open on Memorial Day Weekend. Barry
Lavender Retreat Wellness Club on Capitol Hill Opens On Saturday, June 7, 5-8 p.m., Lavender Retreat Wellness Club, 1236 Pennsylvania Ave. SE welcomes you for cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and live music. Upon arrival you will receive a complimentary Lavender Water on a first come, first serve basis. There will be raffle prizes of acupuncture sessions, massages services and facials. RSVP to MJ at 202)450-2329 or dcinfo@lavender-retreat.com.
The former SW Waterfront Channel Inn house group, 3rd Generation Band featuring Tiya is sure to rock the house at the Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museumís benefit ìSummer SoirÈe: Celebrating Community & Cultureî on Friday, June 6 at 7 pm at the Smithsonian Castle. Smithsonian Institution Secretary G. Wayne Clough and artist Sam Gilliam will be honored at the event which promised to be much fun and includes a silent auction featuring iconic DC items and a hand dance competition. For more information or ticket purchase, please call (202) 633-4875 or email ACMinfo@si.edu or visit anacostia.si.edu. Photograph by Jean Louis Mafema
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Farm pool is still currently under renovations, and is scheduled to open mid-summer. All pools are free for DC residents. Have picture ID.
New Yoga for Adults and Teens at SW Library Adults and teens are welcome to join a new yoga program on Tuesday evenings, 7 p.m. The 60-minute class is geared toward beginners, but all are welcome to attend. Southwest Neighborhood Library, 900 Wesley Pl. SW. 202-724-4752. dclibrary.org/southwest
Ward 6 Animal Health Fair The Ward 6 Animal Health Fair is on Saturday, June 7, 1:30-4 p.m. at the King Greenleaf Receration Center, 201 N St. SW. Dogs must be secured on a leash and cats must be secured in a carrier box. All pets must be brought to the clinic by a responsible adult. Dogs over the age of four months old are required by law to be vaccinated against rabies and distemper. Cats are required to be vaccinated against rabies only. The law requires that all dogs are registered and wear their tags on their collars. A dog license is $15 for a spayed or neutered dog and $50 for an unspayed or unneutered dog. If available, bring previous vaccination history. Maximum of four pets per owner allowed. Checks and money orders accepted only. For more information contact the DC Department of HealthAnimal Services Program at 202-535-2323.
Capital Hill Village - Sharing Your Home with Others Have you ever thought about earning some extra money by sharing part of your home with other people? The Housing Committee of Capitol Hill Village is presenting a seminar on Friday, June 6, 9:30 a.m.noon at Northeast Neighborhood Library that will discuss a variety of ways to arrange for renters, both formal and informal. Speakers will discuss co-housing, a concept in which individuals join together to buy or build an apartment building in which they each own their own complete apartments, but there are extensive communal spaces in which owners join together for meals and other events. The seminar is open to all, but pre-registration is required at 202-543-1778.
New Capital Hill Book Club Launched A new book club will meet on June 19, 6:30 p.m. at Southeast Library, 403 7th St. SE. The club will rotate between bookish locations on the Hill--Riverby and different library branches. For June, they are reading “A Tale for the Time Being” by Ruth Ozeki. All book lovers are welcome to join.
CHGM Community Night Capital Hill Group Ministry Community Night is the second Tuesday of every month, 6-7:30 p.m., at Capitol Hill United Methodist Church, 421 Seward Sq. SE. Each month, you’ll learn about a different aspect of homelessness, and specific action that you can take to address the problem. chgm.net
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Goats Remove Invasive Plants Around Anacostia Watershed The Anacostia Watershed Society (AWS), in partnership with the Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission hired a herd of goats to help manage invasive plant populations along the Northwest Branch of the Anacostia River in Hyattsville, MD. Beginning on May 8, 60 goats fed on non-native kudzu (Pueraria lobata) to naturally and safely clear a large section of the invasive plant which will improve the overall health of the river. Kudzu is a non-native, invasive vine that spreads quickly and outcompetes native vegetation. The herd of goats, provided by EcoGoats of Davidsonville, MD, feasted on the kudzu for a total of 8 days. Unlike machines or herbicides, the herd of goats do not compress or contaminate the soil around the river’s habitat and they reduce the invasive plant biomass that would routinely be disposed of in local area landfills, potentially furthering the spreading of kudzu through composting and mulching products.
Tech Time at NE Library Tech Time is a drop-in clinic focused on mobile devices such as tablets, laptops and smart phones. Experts at downloading books, magazines, and music onto your devices will be standing by 5:30-7:30 p.m., the second and fourth Thursday of each month to answer any questions you might have. Northeast Neighborhood Library, 330 7th St. NE. 202-698-0058. dclibrary.org/northeast
Capper Community Building Meeting June 11 475 people in the Capitol Quarter neighborhood responded to a survey on pro-
gram and facility recommendations for the forthcoming community building slated to open in the fall of 2015. More than 85 percent were from within a 10-block radius of the proposed facility. About 46 percent of those surveyed indicated they rented their home. Almost three-quarters of the surveys were completed online. DC Housing Authority consultants will present the results and program recommendations at a community meeting at 200 I Street on Wednesday, June 11 at 6 p.m.
An Evening With Ellen McCarthy The new Director of the DC Office of Plan-
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ning, Ms. McCarthy, will share her views and the OP outlook on development and the zoning regulations rewrite, highlighting the Capitol Hill area. The event will be preceded by a brief Membership Meeting. Wednesday, June 4 -- 7 to 8:30 p.m. The HillCenter, 921 Pennsylvania Ave SE No reservations required
Thursday Game Nights! Every Thursday night. 6pm10pm Come learn new games or play your favorites! We have hundreds of open board games to play, so bring your friends and join us for an evening of fun and games! Our game nights are always free and open to the public without RSVP. Labyrinth Games & Puzzles, 645 Pennsylvania Ave. SE Washington, DC 20003. 202-544-1059 9 a.m.-noon at the Hill Center. $50. Register online at hillcenterdc.org or call 202-549-4172.
LEED Gold Awarded to Canal Park The US Green Building Council (USGBC) has awarded LEED Gold designation to Canal Park. The three-block park, located in the Capitol Riverfront at 2nd and M Sts. SE, opened in 2012 and was designed by OLIN and Studios Architecture. The award-winning design is a model of sustainable development. Park features include electric car charging stations, an extensive storm water collection and reuse system, as well as tree boxes and bio swales that provide filtration for street-level runoff surrounding the park. The park includes an ice rink, the Park Tavern Restaurant, an interac-
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tive water fountain with programmable jets, sculptures by DC artist David Hess, and an interactive light cube that displays video and photographic art.
Construction Starts on Anacostia Riverwalk’s Link of DC and Maryland
School Within School gives thanks to all the sponsors, attendees and volunteers who made the 17th Annual SWS Jazz Gala and Auction an amazing success!
Construction has started for the $22.1 million project across the District of Columbia and Maryland line to deliver the missing link in almost 70-mile regional bicycle and pedestrian trail network. By connecting Benning Rd. in the District with Bladensburg Waterfront Park in Bladensburg, MD, the four-mile trail segment creates new connections between communities, the Anacostia River and its natural resources while enhancing recreational and educational opportunities for trail users.
Homebrew 101 at Southeast Library If you ever go out to eat in Washington, DC, you have probably heard people talking about “craft” beer. More and more people are brewing this beer themselves. If you are curious about the basics of brewing your own beer, on Saturday, June 21, noon, join them for a presentation from the DC Homebrewers Club. Educators from DCHC will share information about things like ingredients, equipment, cost, and method. All participants must be 21 years old or older. Southeast Neighborhood Library, 403 7th St. SE. 202-698-3377. dclibrary.org/ southeast
Water Tests Show Canal Water Safe For Recreation The National Park Service lifted the
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advisory in the morning on Monday, May 12 discouraging recreational use of water in the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal. Water quality tests found results that are well within the recreational water quality standards established by the Environmental Protection Agency. The recommendation to avoid canal waters was put in place below Lock 7 in the C&O Canal due to combined sewage overflow that occurred during a recent storm from DC Water and WSSC sewage lines. A second round of tests will take place later this week to confirm that bacterial levels have dropped further or stabilized at typical levels. Cleanup and repairs along the Canal and the Capital Crescent Trail is complete. The Capital Crescent Trail reopened Friday afternoon, May 9. nps.gov
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How to Write a Lot with Wilona Sloan at Hill Center Here, you will learn how to develop the habits of a successful writer, including how to set and track your writing goals, create a schedule and project plan, and use writing prompts to advance your story or generate new work. You also will do in-class fiction and non-fiction writing exercises designed to show you how to make the most of your writing time. There are no good excuses! This class is for all busy writers. Wilona Sloan has published articles about art, culture and education in magazines including Publishers Weekly, Northern Virginia and the University of Virginia. Class is on Saturday, June 28, 9 a.m.-noon at the Hill Center. $50. Register online at hillcenterdc.org or call 202-549-4172. u
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{capitol streets / district beat}
The District Beat
The Pot Begins to Boil by Andrew Lightman
I
n a recent post on Greater Greater Washington, Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Wells announced his decision not to run as an independent for the At-Large election position vacated by David Cantania (I-At Large) in this November’s general election. However, Wells may not have to wait very long to take a shot at a Democratic At-
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Large seat. The corruption investigation headed by US Attorney Ronald C. Machen, Jr. may very well be headed in the direction of Vincent B. Orange Sr. (D-At Large). A path leads through Kelvin Robinson, former chief of staff to Mayor Anthony A. Williams, and previous opponent.
The Stalking Horse “If you participated in backroom, under-thetable deals with Jeff Thompson, I urge you to come forward now and own up to your conduct,” stated Machen at the March press conference held in the wake of the DC businessman Jeffrey E. Thompson’s guilty plea. With the charging of Robinson with a single count of conspiracy to violate DC campaign laws, US Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr. has signaled that he is done waiting. The filing of a criminal conspiracy complaint rather than a ‘criminal information’ may indicate that Machen has failed to reach a plea agreement with Robinson’s attorney. Alternatively, the decision to proceed in the absence of such an agreement indicates the prosecution’s intention to up the ante in an effort to pressure his target. This begs the question, “Why Robinson?”
Robinson and Thompson Under DC law, individuals and corporations contributions to political candidates are strictly limited to an aggregate of $1,000 per candidate per campaign. According to the charge filed, Thompson with the aid of Jeanne Clarke Harris allegedly provided in-kind and cash donations totaling approximately over $34,000 to the two campaign committees formed to support Robinson’s 2010 campaign against incumbent Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Wells. The monies that were garnered from Thompson’s accounting firm, Thompson, Cobb, Brazilio and Associates, P.C. (TCBA), and DC Chartered Health, another wholly owned company of his, were routed through companies controlled by Harris. In concert with Thompson, the charge alleges, Robinson conspired to have his campaign committees file ‘false and misleading’ forms with the DC Office of Campaign Finance (OCF) that concealed the scope of Thompson’s illegal contributions. Machen’s charge leveled against Robin-
son mentions his wholly owned, limited liability company, Emerge DC, LLC in the criminal count. Interestingly, Emerge is not mentioned in the narrative of the conspiracy. However, according to court records discovered by Washington’s City Paper, on March 9, 2006, three days after Emerge received a $5,250 check cut from a bank account controlled by DC lobbyist David Wilmot, the company donated $2,000 to Council Chair Linda’s Cropp’s 2006 mayoral campaign. This coincidence suggests that Emerge may have served at least in one instance as a vehicle for Thompson’s straw donations. Cropp’s bid received $280,000 of such monies in the 2006. There may have been other instances as well considering that Robinson was both periodically contracted through Emerge as a consultant to DC Chartered Health. He had a close personal relationship with Thompson; an association furthered detailed in the latter’s March plea, where he makes an appearance as ‘Candidate B.’
The Orange Connection On March 10, 2011, Robinson, according to the plea, allegedly met with Thompson and “Council Candidate D” at TCBA’s offices. Council Candidate D was identified in court as Vincent B. Orange, Sr. (D-At Large). At that point, Orange was running in an open special election for the at-large seat he currently holds. Earlier that day, Thompson had purchased money orders to make straw donations to Orange’s campaign. After placing Orange in a separate office to make phone calls soliciting support, he and Robinson processed the money orders and other donations entering the information into the campaign’s OCF reporting form. The majority of contributions reported were either directly or indirectly reimbursed by Thompson. This massive infusion of cash propelled Orange to front of the pack in just a month prior to the election. In his plea agreement, Thompson stated that Orange was aware of the illegal straw contributions. However, under questioning from the presiding judge at his plea hearing, he stated that he not directly communicated with Orange. This leaves Robinson as the only other individual at TCBA’s offices on that fateful March
evening that can attest to Orange’s knowledge.
An Alternative Path to Indictment Even if Robinson refuses to cooperate regarding Orange, Machen may have another card up his sleeve. Between March 4 and May 10, 2011, according to Thompson’s plea, Harris dispersed $148,146 in cash and in kind donations through her personal companies to fund a shadow GOTV (Get Out The Vote) effort on Orange’s behalf. According to the Washington’s City Paper, Vernon Hawkins, former head of the DC Department of Human Services under Mayor Marion Barry during his fourth term, was a key member of Orange’s 2011 election team. Coincidently, Hawkins had run the Thompson-funded shadow campaign in support of Gray earlier that fall. Hawkins has pled guilty and agreed to cooperate with the federal investigation. So far, Hawkins has not made any statement on mechanics of the Thompson shadow campaign in support of Orange’s 2011 bid. However, there is a chance either he or Harris might have direct knowledge of the extent of Orange’s awareness of Thompson’s illegal activities.
Implications If Machen can get Robinson, Harris or Hawkins to link Orange to the falsified OCF campaign documents or the illegally funded GOTV effort, it would be a simple matter to charge the councilmember for conspiracy to commit campaign fraud. An indictment might force Orange from office. If so, District voters could be facing another April election in 2015. April special elections inevitably feature low turnouts. It does not take many ballots to win. In 2011, Orange won with just 13,583 votes. Anita Bonds triumphed in 2013 with 18,027 votes. With a base of 12,393 votes in the recent mayoral contest, Wells certainly has what it takes to be a significant contender. u
June 2014 H 57
{capitol streets / the numbers}
Unlocking Opportunities
Services That Help Poor Children Succeed in the Classroom
I
t is hard to imagine a city that has pursued school reform more assertively than the District of Columbia. There have been major efforts to improve teaching through better pay, incentives, and stricter performance accountability. There have been huge investments to modernize school facilities and increase access to pre-school. And DC now has an impressive level of school choice and innovation through one of the largest charter school sectors in the nation. These investments have made a difference, but the city has a long way to go, with most low-income students still scoring below proficiency on standardized tests and many schools struggling to improve. That may reflect the problems that poor children bring with them to school, rather than problems in the schools themselves. The next step in education reform may not be about what happens in the classroom but instead about dealing with the stresses of poverty that make it hard for students to succeed. In DC, over one in four children lives in poverty, defined as less than $18,500 per year for a family of three. In some neighborhoods in Wards 7 and 8, the child poverty rate is greater than 50 percent. Low-income students are more likely than other children to have physical or mental health problems. They are more likely to live in violent neighborhoods or in families marked by instability that comes from poor quality housing and low-wage jobs. Poor parents who themselves struggled in school or who work at nights are less able than other parents to be active in their child’s education. School provides a natural setting for the provision of services that can alleviate the effects of poverty on students. In school, children with mental health problems can be identified. Schools can take steps to make
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by Soumya Bhat and Jenny Reed sure homeless children get the help they need. And schools can help parents reinforce teaching at home.
Helping Students Cope with “Toxic Stress” Low-income children are often exposed to frequent trauma and stress, which has been shown to affect their ability to concentrate, plan, organize, recall information, and analyze. Children experiencing toxic levels of stress perform worse on academic tests than their unstressed counterparts. In DC there are 5,000 children with unmet mental health needs, according to the Children’s Law Center, which means more needs to be done. DC’s School-Based Mental Health (SBMH) program places professionals in traditional public and public charter schools, who offer one-on-one counseling, screening, and classroom-based prevention activities. But due to lack of funding , the program is located in just 72 schools — roughly a third of all schools — with services primarily located in Ward 6, 7, and 8. Improving access to mental health services is not only important to helping children succeed in school. It also can help children avoid entering the criminal justice system. Nationally, the vast majority of children in the juvenile justice system have at least one mental illness.
Maintaining Educational Stability for Homeless Students When families move frequently from home to home, or become homeless, that disrupts a child’s educational continuity. Homelessness in particular leads to child anxiety, depression and withdrawal that can result in poor educational outcomes. Over 4,000 students in DC Public Schools are homeless, a number that has grown 37 percent in two years (See Figure 1.) In some schools, as
More than a Backpack Poor Children Bring Many Problems with Them to School
P
overty affects children negatively in a number of ways that make it harder to succeed in school.
Physical health problems. Low-income children are more likely to suffer from asthma, lead poisoning, low birth weight, developmental delays, and learning disabilities. They are more likely to face obstacles to learning and have poor school attendance. Mental health problems. Low-income children are more often exposed to trauma and stress, which limits the ability to concentrate, plan, organize, recall information, and analyze. More than 5,000 District children who need mental health services are not receiving them. Neighborhood instability. Many DC parents report that their children are not safe in their neighborhood or school. Low-income children are more likely to experience violent crime and say they are afraid to go out. Low-income children often live in neighborhoods with poor air and water quality, or in housing that exposes them to lead, asbestos, mold, roaches and rodents. Family instability. Low-income students and their families move around much more than other children, including frequent moves from school to school. Homelessness in particular leads to child anxiety, depression and withdrawal that can result in poor educational outcomes. In some DC schools, as many as one-fourth of the students are homeless. Low levels of literacy. Children in low-income families on average are read to less, exposed to more television, and have less access to reading materials than other children.
many as one-fourth of the students are homeless, and the student homelessness rate is over 10 percent in one of eight schools. This means that meeting the special needs of homeless students is an important part of improving school outcomes in the District. The federal McKinney-Vento program is the main way DC and states provide services to homeless students. It sets important goals, such as providing transportation so that students can remain at their school of origin, helping students enroll in school quickly, identifying homeless youth, and providing financial assistance for things like field trips and graduation fees. But the District gets just $34 per homeless student from this program, making it unlikely the District can support all of these goals in a meaningful way. Given the complexities of barriers facing homeless students, it is important that the District assess the adequacy of these services and expand them if needed. This includes additional support for homeless liaisons in schools so that they are better able to meet the needs of a rising homeless youth population.
Engaging Parents in Their Child’s Education Students do better in school when their families are engaged, including improved literacy and math skills in elementary school, reduced truancy, and fewer behavioral problems. Also, a parent who is engaged in their child’s education can reinforce what is learned in the classroom. For a variety of reasons, however, low-income parents are less likely to have a healthy connection to their child’s school than parents who are not poor. This is partly because lowincome parents often work multiple jobs and have less free time and resources available to regularly partic-
ipate in school activities. A number of school systems have developed parent engagement strategies to reach out to parents. One local foundation, Flamboyan, is working with DCPS to support programs in 15 schools (21 next year) where school staff visit families at their homes. This allows teachers to communicate with parents about what their children are working on during the school day, and to offer guided activities to be done at home with their child. For example, if a first grader is meeting most academic goals but is not on track for the number of words per minute they can read, a home visit can alert parents to this situation and help them develop learning goals to address it. DCPS also has started working with teachers in other schools to build family engagement skills and encourage teachers to make home visits. In the 2013-2014 school year, over 52 teachers from 28 schools participated in the FEC and have completed over 520 family home visits to date. The District’s approach to boosting student achievement needs to go beyond improving the quality of classroom instruction to also address the challenges that poor children bring with them to school. Addressing the stresses that are common in poor neighborhoods is critical to improving outcomes of DC’s lowestperforming schools, most of which have very high poverty rates. Noninstructional supports like mental health services can help ensure that all students benefit from the classroom improvements being made in publicly funded DC schools. Reed is the policy director and Bhat is the education policy analyst at the DC Fiscal Policy Institute (www. dcfpi.org). DCFPI conducts research on tax and budget issues that affect lowand moderate-income DC residents. u
June 2014 H 59
FRAGER’S
A Year After the Fire the Iconic Store Has Reimerged Piece by Piece
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Frager’s Garden Store across from Eastern Market. Photo: Melissa Ashabranner
by Annette Nielsen
W
hile it may seem like yesterday, it’s been a year since a devastating fire took down Frager’s Hardware, a Capitol Hill landmark since 1920 at 1115 Pennsylvania Ave, SE. On June 5, 2013, many members of the community witnessed the Hill institution go up in flames. It’s been a busy year since then for the Frager’s staff and owner John Weintraub. “The fire happened on a Wednesday and we were set up doing business on Sunday at the Pad across from Eastern Market where Mayor Gray helped cut the ribbon. We had to re-establish even the most basic of operations, like setting up a cash register. It was because of the great staff that we were able to go forward,” said Weintraub, and notes that his business partner, Ed Copenhaver, who retired in 2012, has come back to help out. “Although the building was gutted,” says Weintraub, “no one was hurt, and Harold Maupin, our IT lead, was able to retrieve most of our key data off of the Cloud. We initially set up offices in my house on the Hill so that the staff could be together and had a base from which to work.” Now, a year later, the four businesses that made up Frager’s are up and running. The paint store is open at 1129 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. The garden store is across from Eastern Market on the
cement pad used as the floor for the temporary market placed there after Eastern Market was severely damaged by fire in 2007. Frager’s Hardware and Just Ask Rental are now at 1323 E St. SE, a 5000 square foot building that was just purchased by Frager’s. Weintraub is committed to returning the store to its original location at 1115 Pennsylvania, SE. The 1323 E St. building will then be used as a storage facility for the company.
Rising Out of the Ashes Kristin Sampson, Garden Co-Manager, remembers well the struggle of those early days after the fire. “We took that Thursday to regroup, then on Friday the whole staff came together and we began moving plants, pottery, anything from the outdoor garden area, over to the Pad at Eastern Market – it didn’t matter what department you normally worked in, everyone was either taking out inventory from 1115 Pennsylvania Avenue or setting it up at the Pad.” Brian Hanlon, Director of the District’s Department of General Services credits Eastern Market Manager, Barry Margeson for taking the lead on facilitating Frager’s move to the Pad. “Barry was on the phone with John (Weintraub) at six the next morning – by noon they had worked out a conceptual plan on how to move forward.” “There are still challenges to operating out
The fire burns, June 5, 2013. Photo: Andrew Lightman.
June 2014 H 61
...everyone’s attitude has been one of ‘we’ll do whatever it takes.’ FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Ricky Silverstein at the 1323 E Street location standing in an aisle in front of the flag that was rescued from the original store location at 1115 Pennsylvania Ave SE after the fire. Ribbon cutting at Frager’s pad. Photo: Andrew Lightman. John Weintraub, owner of Frager’s. Photo: Andrew Lightman. Two Members of the Capitol Hill Foundation raise money for Frager’s. Photo: Andrew Lightman.
in the open,” says Sampson. “But we’re able to continue serving our community with the same knowledgeable and friendly customer service on which Frager’s has built its reputation. We’re incredibly grateful to have continued access to the site and to be a part of the Eastern Market business com-
munity while we’re here.” Only about a month after the fire, the Pad changed from being city-owned to being owned by Stanton Development Corp/EastBanc. Kitty Kaupp, co-president of Stanton Development Corp/EastBanc says, “Everyone has done such a great job assisting during this transition period – whether it was working through official channels or individual community members offering their support.”
The Community Frager’s, with people who know you by name and long, skinny aisles hung with work gloves or labeled drawers filled with nails, was a gathering spot as well as a resource for people in all trades – whether plumber, electrician, painter, or the DIY-er, providing not only a convenient location to pick up almost any item your project might need, but also a place to tap into wideranging expertise. Hanlon is a fourth generation Washingtonian – his mom grew up on East Capitol St., his dad on H Street. “My parents went to Frager’s as children – and I grew up hearing about that store. Since my wife and I moved to the Hill, we buy everything we possibly can there.”
Staff of Just Ask Rental, now located at 1323 E St. SE. Photo: Andrew Lightman
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Hanlon mentions that it’s the trust you have in a business such as Frager’s that keeps you coming back, “I had visited Frager’s once with a leaky faucet. Instead of being convinced that I needed to purchase a new one, I was told a twenty cent washer would fix it – an experience that bought my business forever.” Frager’s General Manager, Nick Kaplanis says that often they’ll often have parents of Hill residents visit the store, “They tell us that their kids were devastated when the fire happened. We often give parents a free tee shirt if they’re in helping their kids with a project – with a couple of strings attached: they need to wear the shirt to their own local hardware store and also wear it if they go traveling outside of the country – so many people say that the shirt is a conversation starter while traveling abroad.” Kaplanis said that it was while watching the fire from a neighbor’s porch when someone asked about what he thought the prognosis would be. His emphatic response was that Frager’s wasn’t going to go down on his watch. “We made it a slogan to keep us focused and going forward, ‘Not on Our Watch’ – and had the tee shirts printed, and have sold around 2,800 already – after this run is done (about 600 re-
Juan Williams of Frager’s Paint Store at 1129 Pennsylvania Ave SE, located down the street from the original location. Photo: Annette Nielsen
1323 E Street, SE (recently purchased by Frager’s), where you can find tools, the key making, housewares, plumbing & electrical supplies. Photo: Annette Nielsen
Dave Lloyd & Associates 703-593-3204
www.davelloyd.net davidlloyd@realtor.com Enthusiastically serving clients on both sides of the river. main), we’ll be retiring the shirt.” Juan Wilson, Frager’s Paint Store Manager says, “Sometimes people who aren’t even shopping for anything stop by to check in and see how we’re doing. Even with the different locations, people are being really patient as we keep working toward a move back to 1115 Pennsylvania Avenue.” Manager Ricky Silverstein continues, “Our staff has done fabulously – everyone’s attitude has been one of ‘we’ll do whatever it takes.’” That’s been the attitude of the community, as well. Bookkeeper, Tom Gallo, who has been working on and off at Frager’s for nearly a decade says, “After the fire, it was most impressive to see how the neighborhood knew how to help through the Capitol Hill Community Foundation.” The Capitol Hill Community Foundation has, since its founding in 1989, been instrumental in providing grants and funds to a variety of initiatives, including the Eastern Market Fund, after the devastating fire there in 2007. The foundation’s administrative costs are covered completely by the Board of Directors, so that every dollar contributed is directed to grants benefiting the community. Nicky Cymrot, president of the Capitol Hill Community Foundation (CHCF) says, “Yet again, the community wants to put it right – it has been responsive and helped immediately by offering financial assistance. Whether making direct donations or hosting fundraisers on Frager’s behalf, there was an outpouring of support and the CHCF was immediately able to provide the vehicle that could handle the contributions and disbursements in the form of grants to Frager’s employees, as well as the businesses above the hardware store that were displaced.” To date, the community has contributed around $180,000 and money still comes in. Cymrot continues, “John is doing everything possible to keep the business alive – I give him a lot of credit. He’s been very strong.”
Going Forward Over at 1323 E Street, SE, manager Ricky Silverstein is always busy. He says that one of the challenges is storing the product that gets delivered three or four times a week. “Our general manager, Nick Kaplanis has to shift inventory so that we still provide good service, and anticipate what customers might need at each location.” Silverstein notes, “We are always learning how to improvise – the logistics, coordinating the business side – and in the next year, we hopefully will be able to focus on more of the clean-up at the original location so that we can identify more storage space, too.” With the plan to return all operations to the 1115 Pennsylvania Avenue location, Weintraub and his team have had constant meetings with lawyers, consultants and architects to see how they might proceed. The walls of the original Pennsylvania Avenue location are contributing structures to adjacent buildings, and there are historical preservation restrictions on the site. As with many projects, you can’t just take the insurance money and get back to business. The ultimate goal is to secure a development partner and get the entire store back at 1115 Pennsylvania Avenue. Weintraub says, “It is a tribute to our dedicated staff that we got Frager’s back in business just days after the fire. Now we’re up to three temporary siteslawn and garden, paint, and hardwareand working on getting back to the original location. It is incredibly humbling to see how the community and customers have rallied around us and continue to support us during this long journey.” Frager’s Hardware, www.fragersdc.com, facebook/fragersdc 1323 E St SE: Hardware Warehouse (202.543.6157) & Just Ask Rental (202.543.0100); 306 Seventh St SE: The Pad at Eastern Market/Garden Center (202.733.6794) 1129 Pennsylvania Ave SE: Frager’s Paints (202.547.2468) 1115 Pennsylvania Ave SE: The Yard (the original location and where Frager’s will return) Bulk Items, Mulch, Potting Mix, Building Materials (202.543.6157) u
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Walk to Metro from this gorgeous 3,240 base sqft. grand dame center hall Colonial featuring 4 upper level BR’S, grand proportions, garage, pool & immaculate maintenance by long term owner. They don’t build them like this anymore!
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Charming all brick Colonial with two updated baths, refinished hardwoods, fresh paint, landscaped lot with fenced backyard & huge deck. Ultra convenient locale close to Ballston, Metro and just steps to county parks & bike trails.
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4701 Old Dominion Drive • Arlington, VA 22207 June 2014 H 63
{capitol streets}
The Hill Center’s Strong Start
With A Tenant in the Café, The Hill Center Has Fulfilled its Original Plan by Guy Martin a third of those in attendance. So further growth of Hill Center usage is a good bet for the future.
Reasons for Success
C
Chef David Guas will open Bayou Bakery in the Carriage House in the fall.
hef David Guas will open Bayou Bakery, Coffee Bar & Eatery this fall in the historic carriage house at 9th St. and Pennsylvania Ave. SE, bringing the Center’s original plan to completion. So this is a good time for a report to the people the facility serves – the Capitol Hill community and indeed the entire city. When it is all done, the Hill Center project, including the meticulous historic restoration work, the beautiful landscaping and the interior upgrades for accessibility, audio-visual amenities and “green” heating and cooling, will have cost around $11 million. And it will be paid for in full, thanks to the generous contributions of the people of Capitol Hill, along with the DC and federal governments. The aspirations of Hill Center’s founders were lofty – to create a new and lasting Capitol Hill institution dedicated to education and the arts for people of all ages and backgrounds and to make it financially self-sustaining. We are well on our way to achieving both goals after only two and a half years of operation. The Center’s main “product” is space, both for community uses and for a wide array of courses and programs, some created by the Center itself and some provided by other organizations on the Hill and across the city. These include language classes, computer literacy courses, cooking lessons, art exhibitions, live performances, lectures, summer camps, and rentals of space for everything from weddings and reunions to conferences and social events. On almost any given day, you can walk into Hill Center and see three-year-olds dancing, adults exercising, a musical event, a book signing, an art class, a film or an ANC meeting. Last year, there were 42,000 visits to the Center, an increase of 38 percent over 2012, with visits by children up 42 percent. The Center’s staff routinely asks audiences how many are visiting the place for the first time, and the number of hands going up is generally about
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I would like to highlight a few of the reasons for the success of Hill Center because it seems destined to become a model for similar projects on the Hill and elsewhere. First, the Center’s founders and board, the DC government, and our financial supporters shared and sustained a clear vision of the institution they wanted to build. Many of the individuals involved stayed on the project for more than a decade to get it done. Second, when choosing materials and systems for the renovation, Hill Center leaders attempted in every case to select the best-quality option, determined to create a final product that every Hill resident could be proud of. The geothermal heating and cooling system and other green features were costly to install, but they were the right thing to do and will save money in the long run. The lighting and audio-visual systems are excellent; the damaged plaster was restored, not covered over; the new gardens are lovely and well maintained. Small wonder that the Old Naval Hospital’s rehabilitation has won several awards for historic preservation and sustainable design. Third, although the Old Naval Hospital Foundation had significant financial support from government and individual donors for the historic rehabilitation, we made a commitment from the start to cover Hill Center’s operating costs by generating income streams based on rentals and fees, and this we are doing. Fourth, we were fortunate to hire an outstanding executive director
The beautiful grounds of the Hill Center with the Carriage House to the right. Photos: Hill Center
Thomas Landscapes Over 20 Years of Experience
in Diana Ingraham, who in turn has built a strong, happy and cohesive staff that infuses the Center with a can-do enthusiasm that is contagious to visitors. And finally, Hill Center has been greeted warmly by the other non-profits on the Hill, and it has been our pleasure to serve them. We are particularly proud to have created and hosted for a second year Volunteer Capitol Hill Day in collaboration with the Capitol Hill Community Foundation – an annual event where dozens of community non-profit organizations set up at Hill Center to explain and promote their programs to potential volunteers. Bayou Bakery is the icing on the cake. David Guas is not only a celebrity chef but a very good person who fully shares the Hill Center vision and appreciates the Old Naval Hospital’s Civil War history. The Hill Center board believes we could not have found a better proprietor for the café in the carriage house, and we trust you will agree late this year when you sample your first Bayou Bakery beignet. Challenges lie ahead, including the need to keep program quality high and to constantly update and refine our offerings to meet the expectations of a diverse community. Our gratitude goes out to the people of Capitol Hill for supporting Hill Center’s creation and for putting it to very good use.
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Guy Martin is president of the Old Naval Hospital Foundation. www.hillcenterdc.org u
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ANC 6A by Denise Romano
ANC in a Pickle Over Public Parking In a charged atmosphere and after much discussion, commissioners voted on several recommendations concerning Reservation 266, the public parking space at Tennessee Avenue and 13th Street NE, which is adjacent to the front yard of Joyce West. West has applied to the Historic Preservation Review Board (HPRB) for a permit to put a fence on the parcel. Last year the District Department of Transportation (DDOT), which has jurisdiction over the park, permitted West to landscape it. Shortly after there were claims of neighbors trampling the plants and shrubs, allegedly in retaliation for the placement of the plantings. Commissioner Omar Mahmud said that this problem could be solved if West would remove part of the hedge to improve access. Former Commissioner David Holmes contended that DDOT should be blamed for approving the landscaping plan, not West. Commissioners agreed that DDOT erred in granting the permits and making the subsequent decision to designate Reservation 266 as “public parking,” a term that applies to most front yards on Capitol Hill. In a 4-1 vote commissioners approved a recommendation that the ANC send a letter to DDOT asking them to correct the characterization of Reservation 266 as public parking because: 1) the term properly applies only to city-owned property between the actual street curb and the property lines drawn in the L’Enfant Plan and 2) if the application of this designation is extended to other similar parcels it will greatly diminish the public utility of
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pocket parks through the District. Commissioners voted 4-1 to approve a recommendation that the ANC send a letter to Councilmember Mary Cheh recommending that all pocket parks and reservations currently under DDOT jurisdiction be transferred to the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), along with associated funding, as DPR has a better capacity to manage them as publicly available recreational space, and asking that Cheh urge DDOT to reconsider its position with regard to the designation as public parking and issue regulations providing for public notice and comment. Alice Kelly, head of DDOT’s policy branch, was present at the meeting. She said that the agency is establishing a process to ensure that issues such as this do not happen in the future, and she presented Departmental Order No. 1-2014, “Open Space Preservation and Enhancement Policy.” She contended that DDOT does a better job of maintaining the parks than DPR would. The DDOT order can be viewed at www.anc6a.org/DDOTdepartOrderOpenSpacePolicy(097956).pdf. In a 4-1 vote commissioners approved a recommendation that the ANC send a letter to the DC City Council requesting legislation stating that pocket parks and federal reservations are public space and may never be considered public parking, and that no changes to the landscaping or handscaping by individuals that would affect public use or access may be approved without public input including consultation with the ANCs. Further, that a board similar to the HPRB should be established to review such cases to ensure a fair and transparent process.
Commissioners voted 4-1 to approve a recommendation that the ANC oppose HPA 14-310 on the grounds that the proposal is inconsistent with Section 2 of the Historic Landmark and Historic District Protection Act of 1978, first because the fence subdividing the space will further detract from the historic appearance of Reservation 266, originally a single expanse, and second and more importantly because the fence would prevent public access. West, who was present at the meeting, contended that the land is for highway purposes, since it is under DDOT’s jurisdiction. She said she applied for the fence permit because the space is classified as public parking, not a park. West explained that the fence would prevent future intentional and unintentional damage to her plants and is consistent with yards in the Capitol Hill district. She said that
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ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION 6A NICK ALBERTI, CHAIR, 202-329-1193 Serving the Near Northeast, North Lincoln Park, Rosedale, and Stanton Park communities ANC 6A generally meets the second Thursday of the month, at Miner Elementary School, 601 15th Street, NE.
www.anc6a.org Next ANC 6A meeting is 2nd Thursday, June 12 Alcohol Beverage Licensing Committee
3rd Tuesday, June 17, 7pm • Sherwood Recreation Center Corner of 10th & G Streets, NE • Chair, Jay Williams, 906-0657
Transportation & Public Space Committee
3rd Monday, June 16, 7pm • Maury Elementary School 13th Street & Constitution Ave NE Chair, Omar Mahmud, 546-1520
Economic Development & Zoning Committee
3rd Wednesday, June 18, 7pm • Sherwood Recreation Center Corner of 10th and G Streets, NE • Chair, Dan Golden, 641-5734
Community Outreach Committee
3rd Monday, June 16, 7pm • Maury Elementary School 13th Street & Constitution Ave NE Avenue,NE • Chair, Elizabeth Nelson, 543-3512
Please check the Community Calendar on the website for cancellations and changes of venue.
she wants to beautify the space and protect the plants. Everyone present at the meeting agreed that the District needs more beautified public spaces.
Commissioner Holmes Resigns Former Chair and Commissioner David Holmes announced that he had resigned from his position in midMay. After serving on the ANC for over seven years Holmes said it was time for “someone else to be elected.” Commissioners thanked him for his extensive service and knowledge. Holmes was also ANC 6A’s treasurer, a position that Chair Nick Alberti will fill during the interim until a new commissioner is elected.
New COC Member Two new Community Outreach Committee (COC) members were approved unanimously by commissioners. Veronica “Roni” Hollmon was confirmed after being nominated by Committee Chair Elizabeth Nelson. In addition Shirley Worthy, nominated by Commissioner Sondra Phillips-Gilbert, was also confirmed.
Picnic Tables Permitted for Eliot Hine School Commissioners voted unanimously to approve a recommendation from the COC to allow the ANC to award $300 to the request of the Eliot-Hine Middle School’s Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) for picnic tables for an outdoor classroom. Part of the school’s “Living Classroom,” the tables will be stored on site and belong to the PTO.
Transportation and Public Space Committee Motions In a 5-0 vote commissioners approved a recommendation that the ANC send a letter to the District De-
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partment of Transportation (DDOT) asking that it consider installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of Maryland Ave. and 10th Street NE as an independent project. Pedestrians are having a hard time navigating the intersection, which has a crosswalk but no light or stop sign. Commissioners voted unanimously to send a letter to Jim Sebastian, biking infrastructure manager at DDOT, recommending the location of the new promised Capital Bikeshare station, originally slated for 12th and H streets NE, be at 10th Street and Maryland Avenue NE instead. This proposed location is next to the streetcar’s power substation and near a share station already on 10th and H streets NE.
Economic Development and Zoning Committee Motions In a 5-0 vote commissioners approved a recommendation that the ANC write a letter to HPRB in support of HPA 15-180, which seeks design approval for the conversion of a church and two adjoining row houses at 819 D St. NE into a 30-unit residential development, provided that the developer incorporate HPRB’s pending comments into its design prior to the HPRB hearing. Commissioners voted unanimously to approve a recommendation that the ANC write a letter to the Zoning Administrator advising that the building plans provided by the developer for 1511 A St. NE at minimum do not appear to accurately depict the grade and curb level, which will affect the calculation of FAR and building height, and advising of additional issues related to the preparation of the plans. Neighbors of the development present at the meeting thanked the ANC for addressing this issue.
Update on the Anacostia River Tunnel Project Representatives from DC Water were on hand to give a presentation about the next leg of the Anacostia River Tunnel Project. Project engineer Chris White explained that the massive project aims to repair the city’s combined sewer overflow (CSO) system, which currently handles both storm and sewer water in the same pipes and frequently causes problems. DC Water is boring tunnels throughout the city so there is infrastructure that can better handle the surges. The next tunnel is not in ANC 6A, but White wanted to keep residents informed of plans. Tunneling starts next March and will begin just south of RFK Stadium, from ANC 6B through Ward 8, ending at Poplar Point. Boring of the tunnel should be finished by 2017. There will be future public meetings to give updates and get residents’ feedback. White assured those at the meeting that there will be minimal dust and noise. For more information call Andrea Williams at 202-787-4447 or email Andrea. Williams@DCWater.com. ANC 6A meets on the second Thursday of every month (except August) at Miner Elementary School. The 6A committees meet at 7:00 p.m. on the following dates: Alcohol Beverage and Licensing, third Wednesday of every month at the Sherwood Recreation Center. Community Outreach, third Monday of each month, Maury Elementary School. Economic Development and Zoning, third Wednesday, Sherwood Recreation Center. u
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June 2014 H 69
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ANC 6B by Jonathan Neeley
Defining Pocket Parks When Pierre L’Enfant designed the city, he intended for reservations and pocket parks like Turtle Park next to Eastern Market and the space at Ninth Street and North Carolina Ave NE to be left for public use. These spaces were overseen by the National Park Service through the 1970s, when jurisdiction was transferred to the DC Department of Transportation. In a recent case at 13th Street and Tennessee Ave. NE, a reservation within the boundary of ANC 6A, a resident was granted a permit to erect a fence and landscape the land adjacent to her house because the land was classified as “public parking,” publically owned land that is approved for private use. Reservations and pocket parks, on the other hand, are defined as publically owned lands whose use remains public. 6B has not weighed in on the specific case at Tennessee and 13th NE since it’s outside their geographic boundary, but the ANC is concerned that what has gone on in 6A—lost public land and an ongoing legal battle— could have implications all over the Hill. Bringing 6B’s concern in the matter to a head is a recent DDOT ruling that announced an updated policy on triangle parks, pocket parks, and reservations. 6B wrote a letter to DDOT applauding action on the matter but saying the policy is still ambiguous about the definition of public parking. The letter asks for a definitive statement that reservation land transferred to the city is not public parking, but rather public space that should be maintained as such.
&Pizza’s Bid for an Eighth Street Location &Pizza has a pending application for a fast food exception that, if granted by the BZA, would allow them to open a location at 405 Eighth Street SE, the building currently occupied by Oxxo Cleaners. The ANC currently opposes the exception because it is concerned that a new carry-out restaurant— &Pizza projects a 60/40% split between dine in and carry out— would lead to more trash around Barrack’s Row, exacerbating the area’s considerable rat infestation problem. According to the ANC, the only way &Pizza could meet the requirements for a fast food exception would be to store its trash inside the ex-
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isting four walls of the building. According to Steve Salis, &Pizza’s owner, the space inside the building is far too small for trash storage. Still, he says he has found a solution: rebuilding a shed that used to be behind the building and using it for trash storage. He recently requested that the BZA postpone his exception hearing so that he can apply for the variance required to build the shed. Salis says he would not move forward with a restaurant on 8thStreet unless he got both the exception and the variance, which he points to as a display of a good-faith effort to address ANC and neighbor concerns. A number of neighbors attended the 6B regular meeting to say that even if &Pizza gets the variance, they are still opposed to the pizza chain moving in; they pointed to Salis’ 11th hour variance application as the most recent example of a process of poor communication with the neighborhood. For his part, Salis says the application was filed so late in the game because of all the paperwork he had to file with different offices in the city. The ANC appears to be open to compromise: commissioners voted to oppose &Pizza’s existing application for a fast food exception but added language in its letter to the BZA stating that they are supportive of Salis’ request for a delayed hearing in hopes that he can find a solution that will not exacerbate the rat problem and come to an agreement with the neighbors. Should Salis get approved for a shed, &Pizza may still move in on Eighth Street.
Nooshi Capitol Hill to Add Mezzanine Seating Relations between Hill residents and Nooshi Capitol Hill (524 Eighth Street NE) have been strained since the restaurant came to the area a few years ago. There have been the standard parking problems linked to virtually any restaurant that neighbors a residential area, but because Nooshi borders an empty lot to the south, it has also received numerous complaints about complaints regarding noise and privacy. These issues cast a shadow over Nooshi’s recent request that its settlement agreement be changed to allow for a summer garden atop its third floor mezzanine. After a meeting with both its architects and its neighbors, Nooshi agreed to erect glass paneling on two sides of the mezzanine, which will soften noise and block visibility into homes. The fi-
nal hurdle for Nooshi was its mezzanine closing hours, which is agreed to make 10:30 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday and 11:30 on Friday and Saturday. Commissioners approved the change to the settlement agreement.
MuralsDC Considering Project on Pennsylvania Avenue MuralsDC, a division of the Department of Public Works that replaces graffiti with public art, is considering painting a mural to the Washington Teachers Union building (1239 Pennsylvania Avenue SE), adding to its other Capitol Hill murals at Sasha Bruce House (741 Eighth Street SE) and Oasis Market (1179 Third Street NE). “[Murals] definitely put an end to most of the repeat tagging on that building,” said Nancee Lyons, a public affairs specialist at the Department of Public Works. MuralsDC, which works with the DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities to find artists from both the DC area and around the world, will finalize its decision on whether or not to move on the Teachers Union building by early June.
Marion Park Improvement Marion Park is the most recent of Capitol Hill’s parks to undergo capital improvements overseen by the National Parks Service. The key renovation is the installment of new sidewalk brick, and the project will be carried out in two phases: the first started in April and will end in July and the second will start later in July and run through September. Joy Kinard, the Central District Manager at National Parks-East, said that the Parks Service considered doing the renovations all at once but decided against it so that at least one part of the park would remain open at all times. Northeastern Library will host an open meeting with the Parks Service and Friends of Capitol Hill Parks this month.
Capital Guardian Youth Challenge Academy to Start New Session The Capital Guardian Youth ChalleNGe Academy is recruiting both student applicants and adult mentors for its residential education program. Part of a nationwide program overseen by the National Guard, the ChalleNGe Academy runs for over 17 months and helps students who have previous-
Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6C P.O. Box 77876 • Washington, D.C. 20013-7787 • www.anc6c.org Call (202) 547-7168 for meeting time and location. ANC 6C generally meets the second Wednesday of each month.
ANC 6C COMMISSIONERS ANC 6C01 Daniele Schiffman Daniele.Schiffman@gmail.com
ANC 6C04 Mark Eckenwiler 6C04@anc.dc.gov
ANC 6C02 Karen Wirt (202) 547-7168 6C02@anc.dc.gov
ANC 6C05 Mark Kazmierczak 6C05@anc.dc.gov
ANC 6C03 Scott Price (202) 577-6261 6C03@anc.dc.gov scott.price@anc.dc.gov
ANC 6C06 Tony Goodman (202) 271-8707 tonytgood@gmail.com
ANC 6C COMMITTEES Alcohol Beverage Licensing Committee Contact: (870) 821-0531 anc6c.abl.committee@gmail.com
Transportation and Public Space Committee First Thursday, 7 pm Contact: (202) 641-4264
Grants Committee Contact: SDucote@afscme.org Planning, Zoning, and Environment Committee First Wednesday, 7 pm Contact: zoning@eckenwiler.org Twitter: @6C_PZE
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ly struggled with academics prepare for the GED and seek employment. Students must volunteer for the Academy but are frequently referred by community organizations like DC Courts’ Truancy services, Metropolitan Police, public school guidance counselors, and JobCorps. Academy officials are hoping for eight girls and 12-13 boys from each of the city’s wards.
ANC 6C
by Charnice A. Milton University of Georgia Bill Young Jr., trustee and former chairman of the University of Georgia (UGA) Foundation, spoke to the commission about plans for a new dormitory at 608 Massachusetts Ave. Promising to “comply with every law, regulation, code, anything at all within the District,” Young announced that UGA and area residents came up with a neighborhood cooperation agreement last October. The project, which began in late May, aims to renovate the building’s interior while updating the landscape on the C Street side. Young also stated that the construction crew will use underground parking during work hours (7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Friday). Caroline Crenshaw, who acted as the neighborhood representative, stated that she will participate in quarterly meetings with UGA to address issues and feedback and can contact the head of the program directly if there are any problems. She also announced that there will be a UGA hotline residents can call if they have any questions or concerns.
DDOT Discussion Joe McCann, chair of the Transportation and Public Space Committee, discussed District Department of Transportation (DDOT)-related issues during his report. First he talked about the H Street performance parking zone, which was created to adjust rates for metered parking in order to provide more options and take pressure off adjacent streets. However, the metered rates are not being adjusted, prompting questions on whether DDOT will implement a demand model. McCann reported that the process is being implemented in the downtown area, but it could come to H Street. Second he discussed a moratorium on insti-
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tuting ward-only residential permit parking (RPP). DDOT is drafting regulations on ward-only parking criteria, which requires the city to determine “traffic generators.” According to Commissioner Mark Eckenwiler (6C04) there is no legal basis for instituting resident-only parking citywide. The third issue involved visitor parking placards. As part of the performance parking program, residents living on G and I streets received the placards. However, DDOT is discussing the possibility of making them available to all wards on an opt-in basis.
Repeat RPP Violations According to Commissioner Eckenwiler the DC Council passed a law in 2011 imposing enhanced penalties for repeat RPP violations ($60 fine for parking in a ward zone without a permit). However, neither the Department of Public Works (DPW) nor the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has implemented the law. Commissioner Eckenwiler wrote a letter to the mayor, Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Wells, Councilmember Mary Cheh (chair of the Council’s Transportation Committee), and DPW and DMV directors asking why they have not enforced the law, especially since the council promised it would “pay for itself.” He received a preliminary response from DPW Director William Howland in November, but nothing else despite repeated inquires. Commissioner Eckenwiler motioned for the commission to send a similar letter to the same recipients; it passed with a 6-0 vote.
Grant Committee Changes Sonte DuConte, chair of the Grants Committee, proposed a moratorium on grant applications to develop better grant application guidelines. The guidelines would be presented at the committee’s August meeting and the commission’s September meeting. Although Commissioner Tony Goodman (6C06) agreed with the goal, he questioned the need for the moratorium, suggesting that the committee make the changes as soon as possible but accept applications in the meantime. DuConte stated the committee is reacting to applications rather than evaluating them. Commissioner Kazmierczak added that the new guidelines would help improve the quality of applications and set a limit on requested funds. Commission Chair Karen Writ (6C01) suggested a middle ground: the committee could accept applications, with the most urgent going straight to the commission. However, as Com-
missioner Eckenwiler pointed out, there is still the issue of application quality. The commission voted 4-2 to implement the moratorium. DuConte also announced a new meeting schedule: the committee will meet every last Thursday of the month at 7:00 p.m. at Northeast Library. Finally the committee will now accept applications on a quarterly basis. Commissioner Mark Kazmierczak (6C05) explained that this will enable grants to be disbursed and closed out in the same quarter, giving the committee sufficient time to consider each application.
TruOrleans Update Commissioner Kazmierczak announced that TBM Holdings, the company that owns TruOrleans and its former building (400 H St. NE), went under management restructuring and plans to open a new concept restaurant, the Middle-eastern inspired Driftwood Kitchen, at the site. However, since the owner has not changed, neither has the license, meaning they can begin operations as long as they adhere to the current settlement agreement. TruOrleans’ owner, James “Tru” Redding, is considered to be a silent partner in the venture, much to the dismay of some residents. While Commissioner Eckenwiler said that a “trust but verify” attitude will be employed regarding the new venture, others were unsure. “I wish that the ANC would follow through on their promise to stay diligent on this property,” said Roger Hicks, who lives nearby on 4th Street. He explained that during the Alcoholic Beverage Committee’s meeting Eric Tollar, who acquired the property in April, “went overboard” in trying to distance himself from Redding and stated that he had introduced himself to the neighbors. (Hicks said he had not heard anything about it.) “What I’ve seen so far is more falsehood,” Tollar said.
Other News •
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The commission voted 6-0 to support Shake Shack’s applications for a Class D liquor license and a stipulated license for its June 9 opening at Union Station. The commission voted 6-0 to send a letter to the Metropolitan Police Department to place photo-enforced signage on all three intersections of 2nd Street and relocate the traffic camera from 2nd and G to 2nd and F. The commission approved the formation of the
Parks and Events Committee, which will coordinate issues with the Department of Parks and Recreation and the National Park Service, as well as public aspects of DC Public Schools and other government entities as they pertain to parks. Commissioner Goodman will serve as interim chair of the new committee, which needs six members and three at-large members. ANC 6C meets every second Wednesday of the month at the Heritage Foundation (214 Massachusetts Ave. NE) starting at 7:00 p.m. The next meeting will be on June 11. u
ANC 6D by Roberta Weiner Hotel to Help Fill in Ballpark Area A Hilton hotel, designed for both long-term guests and tourists, will be constructed at Half and M Streets SW—50 M Street SW—filling in one of the remaining long-vacant construction sites at the ballpark. The developers made a presentation at the ANC meeting, looking for support for a variance to the Capital Gateway Overlay that would reduce the building’s parking by 25%--according to the developer, five or six spaces. The hotel will have 196 units, and feature efficiency apartments with living rooms and kitchens, as well as rooftop grills to appeal to visiting families. The hotel’s food and beverage services, geared to hotel guests rather
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than the public at large, with a small ground floor lobby and second floor bar and restaurant. There will be one level of below grade parking. The commissioners were concerned about the Half Street façade not being lively enough for people approaching the building from the Metro, and they were hopeful that the hotel’s promised retail space,. could be placed on that side of the building, along with the hotel entrance. According to Commissioner David Garber, we don’t want Half Street to be an “orphan street.” The Commission voted unanimously to support the variance.
Liquor Licenses Prove Problematic Several liquor licenses came before the ANC but the Commission was unable to complete action on them due to the fact that the Alcoholic Beverage Licensing Committee had not been able to meet with a quorum. Because of that, several licenses were protested by the ANC on the standard grounds that “peace, order and quiet” was violated. The protests will be vacated when Settlement Agreements with the establishments are signed. They include Kruba Thai and Takorean, a new establishment at The Yards, and the Fairgrounds at the Ballpark. However, a request for support of a new license was granted to The Big Stick, a new venture at 55 M Street SE from the owners of Justin’s Café, the successful pizza restaurant near the ballpark. The inability of the ANC to take action gave rise to a discussion of ways to avoid it happening again. Currently, each Commissioner appoints a member to the Committee, and if they are not diligent members, there is no quorum at meetings. It was moved that an additional at-large member be appointed to the Committee with the hope that it will be someone who takes his/her responsibility seriously. The change in the committee structure was unanimously approved. Pepco Project at Buzzard Point Moves Forward One component of the controversial soccer stadium project at Buzzard Point is progressing without any of the controversy. A new Pepco substation, replacing one already at the site, is moving forward with design and construction plans. Located at 2nd and O Streets SW, it will replace the existing building at 2nd and S Street SW. The new structure will both replace the existing infrastructure and support the planned growth in that neighborhood. There is a timeline that has the project completed by winter 2016.
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The utility claims that there will be no hazards involved in moving the existing lines, and that they will mitigate any dust emissions from demolition of the existing building. The building will be designed, according to Pepco, “with the community in mind. The building’s aesthetics and architectural features are meant to seamlessly tie into the neighborhood setting.” The site is across the street from part of Syphax Gardens public housing. In fact, the major issues that were raised were about the rendering of the proposed building. Commissioner Andy Litsky asked how much additional space there was surrounding the site for landscaping, a thought echoed by Commissioners Garber and Hamilton who said her constituents would be happier looking at trees. The Pepco representatives were very forthcoming and anxious to keep the community in the loop as the project progressed. It was noted once again that District officials had still not contacted the ANC about the Buzzard Point project.
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In other actions, ANC 6D… Elected Stacy Cloyd to be the ANC’s Secretary. Supported a request by Channel Square Housing for a variance for an office space in the project from non-profit use; Heard a presentation from Community Support Systems, a home health care agency in College Park that is expanding its services and opening a new location in Ward 6 to serve elderly and homeless clients in Wards 5, 6, 7, and 8. Learned about the plans of DC Water to construct a major new system of water tunnels to eliminate most toxic overflow from DC’s water system. The construction, which is scheduled to take four years, covers an area from RFK Stadium to Blue Plains Filtration plant, with a substantial portion of the work in Southeast and Southwest.
Next Meeting The next business meeting of ANC 6D will be held on Monday, June 9th, at 7 PM, at 1100 4th Street SW. in the DCRA 2nd Floor Conference Room.
ANC 6E by Steve Holton
Seventh Street Makeover District Department of Transportation (DDOT) officials were on hand at the ANC 6E meeting in early May to give an overview of the Howard Theater streetscape project. The project will resurface the pavement and will also include several streetscape enhancements on 7th Street between N Street and Florida Avenue NW. This area was originally a part of the Howard Theater rehabilitation project, but to speed construction the 7th Street portion was removed. “The project will include building-face improvements and street-light and traffic-signal upgrades,” said a DDOT official. As a part of the sidewalk replacement a new technique will be included to capture stormwater for vegetation before it goes to the sewage drain. The current sidewalks have old bricks that have risen above the surface, making it unsafe to traverse. New sidewalks will have permeable interlocking concrete pavers that look like cobblestones and will allow water to seep through and reach the adjacent tree boxes. Upgrading and complying with ADA standards and improving substandard lighting are also priorities of this project. Construction will start early this summer and could take up to a year to complete, depending on the weather. Work will be done during the week and off-peak hours to alleviate traffic concerns. The commission motioned to support the project with an additional recommendation that bicycle racks be installed on each block. The commission plans on communicating its support and recommendations to the director of DDOT.
Statue to Honor Carter C. Woodson Officials from the Office of Planning and General Services appeared at the meeting to solicit comments on a plan to honor Carter C. Woodson, African-American historian and founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. The project calls for a memorial located at a triangle park at the confluence of 9th Street, Q Street, and Rhode Island Avenue NW. The statue will face the Rhode Island Avenue side, which officials referred to as the “gateway to the city,” and will be illuminated with L.E.D. lighting. Landscaping is in the plans, and officials are taking a hard
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look at the irrigation aspect to ensure proper growth for vegetation. The park will also feature six benches for visitors. The commission motioned to support the plan provided that a water source is made available to maintain the greenscape.
Support for Quality Schools Dupont Circle Commissioner Stephanie Maltz discussed ANC 2B03’s resolution supporting quality neighborhood schools. “We should have good schools in every community, and parents would like more options for their kids,” said Maltz. The resolution urges the city to provide every parent with a readily accessible school in which their child is comfortable. “We can’t have great schools in some neighborhoods and lousy schools in other communities and believe that it is fair. Kids should not have to go across town to get a quality education,” said ANC 6E01 Commissioner Alexander Padro. The board motioned to support the resolution.
Support for Food Market Street Closure A representative of the Capital Area Food Bank was on hand to ask for support for a street closure on the 100 block of L Street NW on the first Saturday of every month, year-round. The market will be open to qualified residents from 10:00 a.m. to noon, but food bank representatives expect the market’s operational impact to extend from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Participants must be DC-area residents and meet certain income eligibility requirements. Once approved, residents may drop by and shop every month, and may procure up to 30 pounds of free fresh produce. According to the food bank representative most produce will be local when it is in season. “We are in talks with local community groups to have physical and mental health screenings and literacy and health services. We would like to bring anything the community needs to this marketplace,” said the representative. The board motioned to support the street closure, contingent on there being an agreement between the Northwest One Library and the Southern Baptist Church to alleviate any parking concerns. The market will be positioned between the library and church.
No New Beer Garden Howard Theater requested that the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board (ABC) grant an outdoor summer garden permit for a beer garden to be located in a parking lot behind the theater. “We support and attend theater events but there are already noise issues with the post-theater crowd after midnight,” said an area resident, who thought that “adding a beer garden to the mix may not be a good idea.” ANC 6E02 Commissioner Kevin Chapple led a motion to express concern to the ABC and oppose future alcohol license requests from Howard Theater.
Renovation Request Accepted A renovation request for a property located at the corner of 7th and Q streets NW was approved. A third floor will be added for residential use and will have a ladder to the rooftop. The second floor will be for residential and office use and the first floor will feature a restaurant. Renovation is expected to take up to eight months to complete.
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Shaw Crime Watch There was one stabbing at 6th and O streets NW, and it is being investigated as a targeted crime between two groups and not a random stabbing. DC Police Department (DCPD) officials noted that car theft and muggings will rise with warmer weather and advised residents to be alert for suspicious activity. “Keep your smartphones out of view when walking and backpacks and purses out of view when exiting your vehicle,” said a DCPD official.
Other Topics The commission passed a motion of support to have the 6E area stay Zone 2 parking. The commission supported a request for support for a parade route on June 8 by the Bible Way Church from noon to 1:30 p.m. The route will be between M Street and New Jersey Avenue NW. ANC 6E will meet again at 6:30 p.m. on June 3 at the Northwest One Library, located at 155 L St. NW. Visit www.anc6e.org to view the ANC 6E newsletter. Follow on Twitter, @ANC6E, and on Facebook by searching ANC6E. u
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Crossword Author: Myles Mellor • www.themecrosswords.com • www.mylesmellorconcepts.com
“Food Groups” by Myles Mellor and Sally York Across:
1. Larry, for one 7. Enters data 13. Quick bread 20. Loud speaker 21. Pupil’s cover 22. Like a trombone slide 23. Schoolyard saying 26. Decide 27. Aggressive 28. Church niche 29. European language 30. Pipsqueak 31. Newspaper div. 33. Duration 35. Vagabond 38. Sediment 40. Die down 45. Girasol, e.g. 46. Naif 49. A Welsh valley 50. Lava fragments 51. “Our Gang” actor 56. Architect 57. Angry reaction 58. Magnetite, e.g. 59. Has to have 60. Public relations effort 62. 1984 Peace Nobelist 64. Great times 65. Comes to 68. Half notes 70. Roman-fleuve 74. New York’s state flower 75. Slight sound 76. Zitone, e.g. 81. Give of ___ 83. Succotash ingredient 85. Cause of lung cancer 88. Advice starter 91. Adoptive son of Trajan 92. Poetic preposition 93. Managed, with “out” 94. ___ print 95. Clairvoyants 96. Wary 99. Musical group
100. München mister 102. ___ Miguel 103. Less common 106. Long (for) 110. Sweet cherry 112. Cooling-off periods 114. Austrian peak 117. National spring celebration 121. Nautical cable 122. Polish anew 123. Magnet alloy 124. Final phases 125. Microwaves 126. Proceeded
Down:
1. Without help 2. Pitfall 3. Hops heater 4. His “4” was retired 5. Exceed 6. Bud Grace comic strip 7. With gelidity 8. All alternative 9. “Kiss” composer 10. Clear 11. Twinings product 12. 1980’s Geena Davis sitcom 13. Beginning 14. Flower with a showy head 15. Café alternative 16. Chaplin prop 17. Impersonator 18. They’re tapped 19. Brink 24. Forever and a day 25. Ideals 30. Rose 32. Lakes 34. Very virile 35. Williams or Givens 36. Express a thought 37. Plumbing supply 38. Datebook abbr. 39. Honey 41. Pat or Debbie 42. Combat gear
Look for this months answers at labyrinthgameshop.com 43. Coronet 44. Softens 46. Stake 47. ___ of Tiflis, Christian saint 48. Sacs 50. Pull strings? 52. M.I.T. part 53. TV angel Munroe 54. Take home 55. South American monkey 61. Guitar or lute picks 63. Empty a suitcase 66. Sock fabric 67. Protein source 68. Diner’s card 69. Design detail 70. Bubbly drinks
71. Battery terminal 72. Category 73. In motion 75. Adept 77. Request 78. Draft holder 79. 1,000 kilograms 80. Long suit 82. Digital money 84. Bond hearings 86. Cow or sow 87. Signal at Sotheby’s 89. Kind of network 90. Lobsterlike 96. Small diving birds 97. Talking points? 98. Make secret
99. Get cozy 101. African republic 103. A lot 104. Kind of limit 105. Further shorten, maybe 106. Makes a scene? 107. Chinese dynasty 108. Axed 109. Wanders 111. Math calculation 113. Mideast chief 114. Eager 115. Shoestring 116. Slog (through) 118. Beluga yield 119. Swell place? 120. Setting for TV’s “Newhart”
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{community life} E on DC
Father’s Day and the Trouble with Curve
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by E. Ethelbert Miller
fter all the tears from our mothers, what will our fathers do? I think about this as June brings Father’s Day into bloom again. I think of children missing in Nigeria or dead in South Korea. I think of the sadness deeper than blues of African American mothers standing over urban coffins. Tell me about the hole inside a father’s heart – don’t spread the rumor that we are all missing. How many men are crying – trying to hold up after all the horror? Maybe I now understand better those old black men I always saw helping at funerals, men walking the mourners down the aisles or carrying a coffin outside to a hearse. Where do these men go after the ceremonies? Who comforts them? Why after all the years of embracing sorrow do they now suffer from dementia? What do they wish to forget or simply refuse to remember? Tell me about the trauma and I will whisper about how every prayer is broken. Come Father’s Day each year I think about how I am haunted by the ghost of my own father. Egberto Miller is still a mystery to me. He was a quiet man, a maintenance man, a postal worker sorting the mail for most of his life. It’s ironic that I have no letters from my father. No cards. I have only moments of memories that continue to fade as I grow older. Next year will be the 100th year of my father’s birth. He was born in the Panama Canal Zone. Does the Pacific ever know the loneliness of the Atlantic? Is the canal just a kiss between two oceans? When I walk the streets of DC I hear black men talking to themselves. I see many sitting on corners as if there were no more freedom trains departing. I suspect many of these men are fathers. Each one carrying a cross or story. Did Emancipation turn our sorrow songs into blues? After all the years are we still trying to escape something we cannot name? My brothers, our fathers, who now inherit at times only the emptiness of dreams. What can I give a black man who stops me in the street and begs for a quarter or jokingly says he takes credit cards? What have become of our fathers, not just on Father’s Day but on these days that seem to be forever? My children are now 27 and 32. I wonder what they once expected of me? When I was writing my second memoir, “The 5th Inning,” I interviewed them. I needed to put a few questions between our distance. Could they understand the face I saw each morning when I stared into the mirror? In “The 5th Inning” I wrote: When I’m very ill or dying, I can see my daughter coming to the hospital to visit. I can see the patient in the next bed turning on his side and saying “You’re blessed to have a beautiful child who still cares about you.” I’m not sad that we all have to die one day; I’m sad that so many of us will die alone. We will depart from the earth with our children living in another city. Maybe on a small desk or table there will be a card and flowers and maybe the phone will ring once a week. Maybe the grandchildren will send pictures drawn in crayon, adding a few misspelled words. You will prop yourself up in the bed and hold either a pill or a memory in your shaking hand. You will turn to stare at the ceiling or walls. I’ll turn 65 in 2015. It’s like being a pitcher and looking over one’s shoulder at the bullpen and seeing a relief pitcher warming up. How many of us want Father’s Day to go into extra-innings? Why do I still have trouble throwing the curve? Why do so many things keep breaking in the hands of men? E. Ethelbert Miller is a literary activist and director of the African American Resource Center at Howard University. He is the author of several collections of poetry and two memoirs. u
June 2014 H 77
{community life}
Eastern Market Community Potluck 78 H Hillrag.com
Photo: Andrew Lightman
Photo: Daniel McCollum
Photo: Annette Nielsen Eastern Market manager Barry Margeson serves up roasted pig. Photo: Andrew Lightman
Mike Bowers of Bowers Fancy Dairy Products with a caprese salad. Photo: Daniel McCollum, American Food Roots
Relaxing under the farmer’s line. Photo: Annette Nielsen
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Photo: Annette Nielsen
Roasting a luscious pig. Photo: Annette Nielsen
Kansas City barbeque expert Ardie Davis and Hill Rag’s Andrew Lightman sample the food. Photo: Daniel McCollum
he official kick-off of the Fresh Tuesdays Farmers’ Market on May 13th included an Eastern Market community potluck. Over a couple of hundred friends, neighbors and representatives of the Eastern Market family of merchants, farmers, producers, artists and artisans gathered around tables beneath the farmers’ line shed to enjoy great food and music – all celebrating the Eastern Market community. The menu included a roasted pig from Eastern Market’s Union Meat prepared in a Caja China grill by market manager Barry Margeson, as well as a bounty of regional specialties prepared by farmers, merchants and neighbors. Blue Iris Flowers provided vibrant floral arrangements and everyone was entertained by the upbeat Zydeco music of Little Red and the Renegades – keeping feet dancing until the stars came out. American Food Roots was on location, too, capturing compelling food stories on video, which will run on amer-
icanfoodroots.com. Future community events are being planned; visit easternmarket-dc.org or find market updates on their Facebook page. u
Carlos Canales (left) and Bill Glasgow, owner of Union Meats in Eastern Market (senter) shoot the breeze. Photo: Daniel McCollum
June 2014 H 79
{community life}
Capitol Hill Group Ministry Launches Programs Under New Executive Director by Charnice A. Milton
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n the basement of Capitol Hill United Methodist Church (421 Seward Square SE) neighbors gather in the fellowship hall for Community Night, a new program given by the Capitol Hill Group Ministry (CHGM). Tonight the topic is chronic homelessness. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) defines a chronically homeless person as “an unaccompanied homeless individual with a disabling condition who has either been continuously homeless for a year or more or has had at least four episodes of homelessness in the past three years.” The meeting is not just a learning opportunity but a call to action. With a new director, CHGM plans to empower the community to end homelessness in Ward 6.
What Is CHGM? Founded in 1967, CHGM was created by a coalition of churches with an interest in social justice and a desire to improve the area. “Back then, the congregations were the only organizations in the area,” said Debra Keats, president of CHGM’s board, noting that Capitol Hill at the time suffered from boarded-up buildings, urban renewal displacement, and impacts from the then-proposed Southeast-Southwest Freeway. Although CHGM began as a Christian organization, it has broadened its base to include community groups, businesses, and concerned individuals. One of CHGM’s most well-known programs is Shirley’s Place, the city’s only daytime drop-in center. “It’s a place where people can take a shower, do their laundry, and receive services,” said Susan Sedgewick, a former CHGM board member. Services include life skills workshops, job training, and counseling. CHGM also has a permanent supportive housing program, Shelter Plus Care, which provides wrap-around services to homeless families. The organization also participates in Rapid Rehousing, a DC Department of Human Services (DHS) program that provides short-term rental assistance and supportive services. CHGM case managers help participants set and achieve financial and educational goals in order to find and maintain new homes. The organization also participates in street outreach, in which CHGM staff and volunteer teams provide direct services to the homeless at least three times a week. For instance, throughout the winter they distributed water, bagged lunches, and blankets. According to the CHGM annual report the
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A family enjoys a meal together during a Family Night hosted by members of the Capitol Hill United Methodist Church.
organization served 306 individuals through more than 655 interactions in 2013.
Meet the New Director When Karen Cunningham, CHGM’s executive director since November 2013, was growing up, her family in- Karen Cunningham stilled a passion for social justice. “I was raised in a large, multiracial family with four adopted siblings,” she explained. “Partly because of that I had an awareness of inequalities. I also think that my mother, in particular, raised me to have empathy for people and different struggles we all encounter, and I just grew up really caring about being a part of creating a more just society.” Cunningham moved to DC in 1998 to study at Georgetown Law School, and she has worked in anti-poverty and social justice campaigns throughout her career. In fact she was looking for nonprofit leadership opportunities before joining CHGM. “I had spent the last few years working at the national level, which I found very valuable,” she explained. “But I was eager to
work for a local program again where I felt I could be making a direct impact on my own city, my own community. And I wanted to work for an anti-poverty organization or another organization that was focused on empowering people and striving toward social justice.” It was former GHGM board member Stacie Mruck who introduced her to the organization through its Adopt-a-Family Christmas program. “I remember more the feeling, just feeling really excited and really welcomed,” Cunningham said of her first day. “My biggest impression of the early days is how welcomed I felt by the board members, the congregational supporters, and other people who ... seemed genuinely happy to welcome me and offered their time and advice and introductions to other people.” For Keats the feeling was mutual: “She’s a breath of fresh air,” she said. “Her whole career is about social justice. She’s bring-
h.
ing a whole new strategy to the organization.”
Community Nights Building on CHGM’s past work, Cunningham plans to strengthen the organization’s relationships with Capitol Hill residents. “I discovered pretty quickly that this organization’s strength lies in the support we have in our neighborhood and our community and the people who participate in our programs through our congregational partnerships,” she said. “I want to harness that and provide new opportunities for those people and anyone else who cares about homelessness and poverty, to become more engaged in our work and more engaged in addressing the underlying the causes of homelessness and poverty through advocacy efforts.” This is the idea behind Community Nights, a program occurring every second Tuesday of the month that allows residents to learn more about the issues while taking direct steps find solutions. The first Community Night included a “Homelessness Challenge,” which allowed participants to experience the challenges of being homeless. Afterward participants received “Outreach Friends” training. “It talks about what to do when you encounter someone who’s homeless on the street and you might feel a little uncomfortable and you’re not sure what to say. Should you give them money or not?” Cunningham explained. “We just talked about different ways you can relate to those folks in a way that’s compassionate and comfortable for both people involved.” Andre, a formerly homeless man who spoke during May’s meeting, would agree with her, as it was people showing compassion that helped build his confidence. “I implore you to be the best memory for everyone that you pass,” he said. “Everything you do impacts other lives for the better.”
Taking Action Cunningham also plans to increase opportunities for Ward 6 residents to help. One way is through Action Hours, an initiative that allows homeless neighbors to learn how to become better advocates for themselves and connect with other efforts throughout the community. Action Hours was launched in April at Church of the Brethren (337 North Carolina Ave. SE). “We used our first meeting with about 10 chronically homeless individuals to begin talking about program goals and ground rules to allow safe space for respectful dialogue,” stated CHCM’s May newsletter. CHCM is offering other volunteer opportunities, including preparing and sharing meals with guests at Shirley’s Place, picking up leftover baked goods from Au Bon Pain for breakfast programs, and street outreach. They are also connecting with citywide campaigns like “The Way Home,” a collaboration of nonprofits, for-profits, and faithbased organizations that pledges to end chronic homelessness by 2017. “We want to use this campaign to show that people care about this issue and that we should invest in programs that help end chronic homelessness,” said Kirk Runge, director of advocacy for Miriam’s Kitchen, one of the campaign’s partners, during May’s Community Night. When it comes to ending homelessness, Cunningham says that awareness and partnerships are key. “It’s about connecting with other people who care about the same issues and the same people we are trying to serve,” she said. “Together we are a lot more powerful than we are alone.”
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June 2014 H 81
{community life}
A Taste for Mentoring
Food for Life Links Good Food with a Great Cause
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by Stephen Lilienthal
he clock’s hands are inching toward the 6:00 p.m. deadline. Marisa Stubbs turns toward Kanedra Wilkins and promises, “You’re going to see life like you’ve never seen it before.” Already the kitchen at the Capitol Hill United Methodist Church has witnessed a flurry of action verbs: chopping, blending, dicing, cutting, mixing, slicing, and peeling. True to Stubbs’ promise, more frenzied action takes place. When 6:00 p.m. arrives the three-course dinner is ready to be savored: wild mushroom soup, pan-roasted salmon with lentils and mustard beurre blanc sauce, and apple galette for desert. Customers who order online come and then leave, carrying boxes of the restaurant-quality meals. Stubbs and the students participating in her nonprofit program, Food for Life (FFL), are producing three-course gourmet meals week-in, week-out, for nine weeks every season. But FFL is a program that manages not only to produce tasteful cuisine but to address an important social problem. And that is due to the foresight of Marisa Stubbs.
Preparing to Help DC Youth Stubbs, whose family moved to Prince Georges County from Mississippi over two decades ago, feels fortunate to have been guided by caring adults, including her
Marisa Stubbs (front, extreme left) with spring 2014 students at Food for Life.
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parents. “I must have had 15 adults who cared about me and would constantly ask me questions such as “When are you going to take your SATs?” After college, the Peace Corps, and work for local nonprofits, Stubbs considered attending graduate school for an MBA but ditched that idea for L’Academie de Cuisine in Gaithersburg. “I come from a family that really enjoys food,” she explains. “I’ve loved cooking since I was eight.” But even then she was thinking beyond just making braised beef for DC diners. She possessed “the notion” that she could not only cook but train DC young adults to do so. After working in restaurants she forged ahead with her idea. She had spent time volunteering with a nonprofit that helped point young people in positive directions. FFL’s target group is 18-23 year-olds, who are often not working
and often not in school. As Stubbs writes in an email, “There’s a huge gap in services for this age. Outside of college, there are few opportunities for secondary education; they have ‘aged out’ of the safety net, and this group often deals with issues of employment and transitioning to independence.” But there are great opportunities in restaurants. Bureau of Labor statistics for May 2013 show the DC metropolitan region had 18,650 restaurant cooks, sixth highest among the nation’s metropolitan areas. Stubbs has succeeded through relentless perseverance and hard work and lots of assistance from her advisory board and the Care Company, the faith-based organization that FFL is part of. Evidence she was on the right track came when the DC Social Innovation Project (DCSIP) selected FFL as runner-up in their Bright Ideas Challenge. What sets FFL apart from many other nonprofits, says DCSIP’s Darius Graham, is Stubbs’ “passion and experience and the ability to make it happen.”
FFL in Action FFL hosts six to eight students each seasonal session. Students start by learning how to cook basic dishes such as roasted chicken and leek soup. By the end of their instruction they will be preparing more demanding dishes such as house-cured salmon or braised pork belly. Emails to social service agencies and youth organizations help to recruit students. FFL also has participated in DC’s Summer Youth Employment Program. Students receive stipends but are spared costly tuition payments. Dinner orders are taken in advance using PayPal. Stubbs handles FFL’s administrative work on Fridays and part of Mondays, which is also time for the weekly shopping. Meals, which cost either $15 or $20 per plate depending on the menu, are prepared on Tuesdays and Thursdays. On Wednesdays students receive instruction from Stubbs in food and life skills.
Reviews Are In FFL produces satisfied students and customers. LaShawn Johnson, 21, a winter 2013 FFL alumna, works at the Avenue Suites, a Georgetown hotel. She says Stubbs’ help represents “the reason I have this job.” Stacy Morgan, who is seeking culinary work, concedes “I’m not a fan of school,” before adding that “Food for Life was one of the best learning experiences I ever had.” It’s not just the students who rave about FFL. Martha Byers, an FFL customer, says she is not a food critic, “but I think the meals are pretty good.” Stephen Lilienthal is a freelance writer. u
Maury School’s Guire sisters came up with this clever sign to advertise the uniform drive in Evolve Property Management’s window. Photo: Sarah Wilson.
Capitol Hill’s Uniform Clothing Drive
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by Heather Schoell
ocal parent and writer Elizabeth Festa was affected by the disappearance of Relisha Rudd and the information that surfaced about the living conditions at the local homeless shelter where Relisha and so many other students reside. For one thing, they have no on-site access to laundry facilities. Picture how difficult it must be for a parent with small children to schlep the dirty laundry, the children, the stroller, and the detergent to the nearest laundry facility (six long city blocks away) – on foot or on the bus. So it’s no wonder that homeless children in our schools often face the choice of going to school in a uniform that they’ve worn for days (and likely getting picked on for it), or just not going. It is not a choice that our children’s classmates should have to make. Jamila Larson, LICSW, executive director and co-founder of Homeless Children’s Playtime Project, wrote in an email, “When a child shows up at school with a uniform that doesn’t fi t or is covered in stains, they might as well be carrying a sign over their head that says, ‘I’m poor.’” Clothes are such a huge part of our identity. We cannot expect a child to focus, do well in school, and feel good about them-
selves if they do not have enough school clothes to wear.” Festa started a focused movement on the Hill via the Capitol Hill Public School Parents Org (CHPSPO) and the Playtime Project that has spread through social media far beyond the ever-growing boundary of the Hill. She and her committee of friends are working with schools’ homeless liaisons to identify needs – uniforms but also toiletries. They have compiled a wish list on Amazon (purchases are tax deductible!) and are spreading the word. What an easy way to involve yourself and your family and to make a tangible difference in our community. For more information go to facebook. com/ClothetheKidsCapHillUniformDrive and playtimeproject.org/2014/05/schooluniforms-students/. To donate via the Amazon wish list, which sends directly to the drop-off location, go to amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/ SGKH8FLM7WFU (or search Amazon’s Wish List for CHPSPO). Drop off clean, gently used uniforms at Evolve Property Management (1344 H St. NE). Heather Schoell is an Eliot-Hine/Maury School parent. u
June 2014 H 83
{community life / south by west}
Construction Continues Unabated in SW
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article and photos by William Rich
o far in 2014, construction activity in Southwest is going full force with multiple projects underway throughout the quadrant. While the largest construction project by far is The Wharf, other parts of the neighborhood are also getting some attention.
Waterfront Station Over at Waterfront Station, Sky House West is nearing completion at 1151 4th Street, SW, the second of four multifamily buildings planned at the development. There are a total of 264 units at the West tower, with 20% set aside as affordable housing for residents earning up to 50% of Area Median Income. Sky House East began leasing in January with rental rates higher than other apartment buildings in the neighborhood. Studios at Sky House East start at $1,640 per month, while one bedroom units begin at $1,815 per month, and two bedroom units range from $2,496 to $3,325 per month.
ing Goods in phase one of the retail center. Meanwhile, Bike and Roll has opened in the ground floor of the north office building facing the plaza, which itself is transforming with the glass atrium erected and new lighting installed. The atrium will serve as the entrance to the renovated retail center. Bike and Roll relocated from the Old Post Office pavilion downtown. The L’Enfant Plaza Hotel is closed until 2015 as it is renovated (according to the hotel’s website) into “a modern and stylish version of its former self.” In addition, the north office building is under renovation.
400 6th Street Trammell Crow plans to build a new, 12-story 342,000 SF office building at 400 6th Street, SW. The building that existed on the site was purchased in 2012 by Trammell Crow and the AFL-CIO Building Investment for $41.9 million and it was formerly occupied by the District’s Child and Family Services Agency. It is located across the street from the massive Constitution Center building and the L’Enfant Plaza Metro station. Demolition occurred last fall and the new office building is scheduled for completion next year. Space on the ground floor will be convertible to retail if the market can support it.
Hyatt Place/Engine 13 A 214-key Hyatt Place hotel with a new Engine 13 firehouse on the ground floor is under construction at 4th and E streets, SW. Hyatt Place is an upscale select-service hotel brand that includes spacious guestrooms with a state-of-the-art media center, along with amenities such as a fitness center, coffee and wine bar, and food service available 24 hours a day. This project is more than five years in the making and was originally planned as an office building. E Street Development won the rights to the site back in 2009 along with a second parcel at 6th and E streets, SW. A groundbreaking ceremony was held in December for the project. The hotel and firehouse are scheduled to open in 2015. Sky House West is nearing completion at Waterfront Station.
In addition, interior build-out is underway at Masala Art, an Indian restaurant on the ground floor of 1101 4th Street, SW. The grand opening is currently planned for some time in July. This will be the second location for the restaurant, which is located in Tenleytown. According to its liquor license application, there will be seating for 133 with the option for a sidewalk café.
L’Enfant Plaza Construction continues on phase two of the retail center at L’Enfant Plaza. Several new restaurants are scheduled to open this summer, including Amsterdam Falafelshop, Brown Bag, Charleys Philly Steaks, Church’s Chicken, Italian Gourmet Deli, Naan & Beyond, Panda Express, Phillips Seafood, Red Robin’s Burger Works, and Subway. In addition to the restaurants, Dress Barn and Elite Dry Cleaners will be opening soon. Shoes by Lara recently opened next door to Nash’s Sport-
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Disabled Veterans Memorial Construction of the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial at 150 Washington Avenue, SW, the first national memorial in the District that will honor both living and deceased disabled veterans, began in 2013. The AVDLM will contain the following components: a star fountain with eternal flame, triangular reflecting pool, granite paving, stone and glass walls, sculptural elements, trees, landscaping, lighting, and parking on the south side of the site. Glass walls planned at the memorial (also known as the Voices of Veterans) will include quotes of disabled veterans and seven images showing wounded and disabled soldiers and veterans and images of care givers. The “Wall of Gratitude” that will run along the middle of the memorial will contain quotations from George Washington and Dwight Eisenhower when they were generals. The 2.4-acre site will be the newest memorial in the city when it opens this fall. A dedication ceremony is scheduled to take place on October
5 and President Obama is expected to attend.
The Wharf Three more cranes have arrived on-site at The Wharf over the past couple of weeks to help with demolishing the existing docks at the Gangplank Marina and the seawall, joining the fourth crane that has been there since the groundbreaking ceremony in March. Construction fencing has cut off the lower portion of the seawall promenade between 7th Street, SW and what was formerly Phillips Flagship. The restaurant closed late last month and will reopen in a much smaller takeout format at L’Enfant Plaza this summer. Pier 7 Restaurant at the Channel Inn closed in late March. Meanwhile, Jenny’s Asian Fusion is still open for the time being and the Maine Avenue Fish Market will remain open through the duration of construction. Seventh Street Landing is also a part of the construction zone, so activities that used to take place over there have been moved downchannel to Gangplank Park closer to 6th Street, including Bufus’ King Ribs. Water Street, SW is now closed to traffic between 7th and 9th streets, SW while utility relocation work gets started. In addition, parking is no longer allowed along Water Street, SW from 7th Street, SW to the fish market. Water Street, SW will no longer exist once phase one of The Wharf is completed in late 2017. Phase one will include the Wharf Hall concert venue, a movie theater, three hotels, two condominium buildings, three apartment buildings, an office building, piers, a marina, and the Wharf Street promenade. William Rich is a blogger at Southwest…The Little Quadrant that Could (www.southwestquadrant. blogspot.com). u
June 2014 H 85
{community life / h street life}
H Street Life
I
by Elise Bernard t’s not quite summer yet, but the clarion call of outdoor dining and drinking can be heard loud and clear. Thankfully, the H Street NE Corridor boasts many options for those seeking such amusement.
CrossFit DC Opens at 1365 H Street H Street’s newest (and largest, at 4,500 sq ft) gym recently opened its doors. CrossFit DC (http:// crossfitdc.com) was founded on 14th Street NW
in 2005, as the District’s first CrossFit affiliate. The H Street NE space is the owners’ second location. CrossFit DC focuses on “strength, power, metabolic conditioning, and body control.” The H Street location has classes for beginners, as well as personal training, and offerings for more advanced athletes.
Impala Opens on H Street NE The long-awaited Impala Cantina y Taqueria (1358 H Street NE, http://impala-dc.com) is now open. They are still tweaking their menu; so expect some degree of variation early on. They are currently serving dinner every day, and weekend brunch/lunch.
Trinidad Garden Tour & Social June 7th Those who have never attended the Trinidad Garden Tour might be forgiven for wondering how a simple tour of local gardens in the tiny neighborhood of Trinidad could possibly take all afternoon. The truth is that this is more than a simple garden tour. While it is great fun to see a multitude of gardens that run the gamut from just getting started to truly impressive, it’s also a chance to meet new neighbors, and to socialize with those you already know. By custom, we begin with a garTrinidad’s Annual Garden Tour offers many floral delights.
Argonaut’s new patio enclosure.
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Cornhole is one of the many pleasures of Bardo.
den party at a certain house on the corner of Montello and Morse. While not required, or expected, it is not uncommon for garden hosts to offer visitors refreshing beverages and nourishment along the way.
Argonaut Gets a Restyled Patio The patio at the Argonaut Tavern (1433 H Street NE, http://argonautdc.com) has long been a neighborhood favorite. In a recent tweak, the owners have enclosed most of the patio in a large partly retractable greenhouselike structure intended to protect diners and staff from rainy weather and cold temperatures.
Opera on Tap at Vendetta Does the idea of enjoying opera music in a casual setting appeal to you? If so, you might enjoy Opera on Tap (http://www.operaontap. org) at Vendetta (1212 H Street NE, http:// vendettadc.com). The group Opera on Tap seeks to broaden the appeal of opera music by stripping away the pretension and letting people enjoy the music in a low cost and relaxed atmosphere. For a mere $10 suggested donation, you can savor two and a half hours of live opera music performed by emerging artists. This happens roughly once or twice a month on Mondays. Monday is also $1 slider night (sausage, meatball, or chicken marsala, with a two drink minimum). Happy hour runs from 5-8 P.M. and features $3 PBR, $4 prosecco and Peroni, and $5 house wine. Also of note, is First Responder Night at Vendetta. Every Thursday, First Responders (police, firefighters, etc.) pay half price for burgers, enjoy happy hour prices all night long, and get $4 Fireball shots.
Bardo Opens Indoor Space & Gearin’ Up DC Joins the Fun The popular outdoor brew-pub Bardo (1200 Bladensburg Road NE, http://bardo.com.au) just got a little more fun with the addition of an indoor space they can use during inclement weather. The new indoor area boasts ample seating in a rustic setting. Two trophy heads decorate the otherwise simple space.
In other exciting news, owners (and brothers) Bill and Andrew Stewart hope to be back to brewing their own beers (they previously did so at Bardo Rodeo and Dr. Dremo’s) very shortly. I’m told they have only a few things to do in preparation for their final pre-brewing inspection. Once that is out of the way, the brothers need about two weeks to brew, and two weeks to ferment before some Bardo originals appear on the menu. I’m talking about brews like: Chuck Brown Ale, Dremo Tibetan Sasquatch strong ale, and XOXOX oaked IPA. They do currently serve one very impressive barley wine called White Lightening, a keg of which spent the past fourteen years in the capable hands of a friend. It will set you back $45 a pour (includes a commemorative glass), but I can honestly say that it is the best beer I’ve ever tasted. For those who haven’t yet ventured up Bladensburg Road to Bardo, I suggest you do so posthaste. Bardo boasts outdoor seating for 500, and cornhole games aplenty. I’ve yet to wait in line to play a round. There’s an outdoor projector with which they frequently show old movies, and plenty of space to toss around a Frisbee if you are so inclined. When the mercury drops, they light up the fire pit. There’s a quite affable resident mutt named Bardawg, who roams the property freely. He leads the makeshift pack of pups whose visiting owners enjoy a beer while watching the dogs romp around. Adding to the scene at Bardo is the newly established association with Gearin’ Up Bicycles (http://www.gearinupbicycles.org). Gearin’ Up Bicycles is a DC based non-profit that seeks to empower and employ young adults from underserved communities. They sell lowcost used bikes and perform all manner of bike repair and maintenance at affordable rates. For more on what’s abuzz on, and around, H Street NE you can visit my blog http://frozentropics.blogspot.com. You can send me tips, or questions at elise.bernard@gmail.com. u
June 2014 H 87
{community life / barracks row}
Help Plan the Future of Barracks Row by Sharon Bosworth
A scene from last year’s Barracks Row Garden Party, a fundraiser for Barracks Row Main Street to be held this year on June 11. Photo: Andrew Lightman
What Do You Want To See? Capitol Hill today is a visual wonderland formed organically over the course of the past 200 years by master builders, contractors, masons and carpenters, and peopled with characters of all ages and backgrounds, each wanting to make this neighborhood a better place to live. Barracks Row, a vibrantpart of the Hill landscape, is full of priceless buildings like the historic turn-of-the century Marine Barracks at 8th & I St, SE, and the Shakespeare Theater, 516 8th St, SE, (formerly the Oddfellows Hall) constructed in the 1870s. In our midst every day are noteworthy figures, such as General James Amos, Commandant of the United States Marine Corps, and Chef Aaron Silver-
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man, owner of our newest restaurant, Rose’s Luxury, which is presently talk-of-the-food-critics. Then we have our psychics, our tattoo artists and the man with the parrot from Hill East who often visits the Row during festivals. Watch for Winnette MacIntosh, winner of Food Network Cupcake Wars. She is the originator and proprietor of Sweet Lobby, 404 8th St, SE. We have notable architects and talented nail techs all adding their karma to the Row. Then, there’s Leah Daniels, the constant and consumate expert at Hill’s Kitchen, 713 D St, SE, who spotted an unfilled niche and whose store now has become the goto kitchen supplier for miles around. This living tapestry is waiting to be studied and appreciated
from one of our many sidewalk cafes. Pull up a seat, have a class of wine or a cup of coffee, and watch the show!
Matchmaking by Barracks Row Main Street Like any ecosystem we are evolving – sometimes slowly and sometimes at a truly impressive pace. Last year alone, 13 businesses opened in 12 months. But even that rate of change may be eclipsed this year. This week, Shakespeare Theatre Company announced that it would move and consolate its campus in Southwest Washington. Though that move is still some years away, we calculate it may be the largest amount of square foot-
Additions & Basement Experts BUFFALO COMPANY, LLC www.buffalocompanyusa.com For all your Construction Needs ADDITIONS age to change hands ever on Barracks Row. But it’s not too soon to begin to think about what what might happen in the Shakespeare Company’s two buildings. We’d like you to work with us on a visioning exercise about how these spaces might be repurposed. While Barracks Row Main Street has no capacity to insist the owners of any of our buildings choose a particular tenant, many of them seek our guidance in helping them find a good fit. New and exisiting retailers, restaurants, and services seek us out as well when they are looking for new spaces, since we often find out about impending availability long before the “space for rent” signs go up. We reach out to them, too – when we hear that a particular need is going unfulfilled, we seek out those types of tenants, armed with marketing data, demographics, pedestrian counts, and rental rates to try to entice them to Barracks Row.
Coming Soon 12,000 Square Feet It is intriguing, at this moment when national retailers are creating urban versions of their store foot prints, to paint a future image of our Row with three to four new shops in the 12,000 square foot Shakespeare Theater Rehearsal Hall, 507 8th St, SE, – either two shops upstairs and two downstairs, or three 4,000 square foot spaces in a row with both an upstairs and street level space - and a truly enlightened repurposing of the Shakespeare Theatre Administration building at 516 8th St, SE.We’d like to hear your thoughts what you want to see in these spaces. And, of course, when smaller spaces on the Row change hands or become available which types of shops would you like to see? We began this exercise last fall with the survey on what you wanted to see on newly designed Metro plaza. Now apply your grand vision to the three blocks of Barracks Row north of I-695. What do you want to see? Send your ideas to us at vision@barracksrow.org.
Color Counts Of course, sometimes shifts are no deeper than a coat of paint: Trattoria Alberto is now RED all over and Ugly Mug is being transformed
to an Ivy Green. Did you know that with all the requirements of the Historic Preservation Review Board and of the Capitol Hill Restoration Society, there are no controls on paint colors on any Capitol Hill edifice We’ve seen many of our businesses give themselves a fresh new look over the years with just new paint and signage. Feel free to extend your color ideas to the future of Barracks Row. How does that look to you? And remember, among all of the other things we do at Barracks Row Main Street, help with facade improvements (including signage and larger facade construction grants) are one of the many things we have offered to building and business owners in our fifteen year history. We have completed over 50 facades and we have also provided financial help for dozens of signs, window lettering, and awnings.
Your’re Invited Garden Party June 11 – 6-8 p.m. The Barracks Row Annual Garden Party on June 11 from 6-8 p.m. is our big annual fundraiser. This year, the Garden Party will be held at 419 New Jersey, Avenue, SE, just one block from the US Capitol. Join us and meet five of our renowned chefs and sample their latest recipes. Enjoy this rarely seen garden as well as the fully renovated 1873 home. Mingle with friends and neighbors while musicians from the President’s Own Marine Corps Band entertain us. This is the only event we do off the Row every year, and it brings in critically needed funds for us to be able to continue recruiting new businesses and retaining our existing ones, our facade program, the work we are doing on the new Plaza design, our funding of our Clean and Safe team on the weekends, all of our other promotional events including the Taste of 8th, the Fall Festival, Santa, the Egg Hunt, the Culinary Education Crawls, and more. We hope you’ll be able to join us as a guest or help support us and the work we do as a sponsor. Tickets start at $125 and sponsorships start at $500. Visit us online at www. barracksrow.org for more information or call us at 202-544-3188. u
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Marlow Heights Shopping Center 4123 Branch Ave. Marlow Heights, MD
301-702 1401 Free Gift With Ad June 2014 H 89
{community life / @ your service}
At Your Service
A Pool With a View, New Hotel, Kids Move by Ellen Boomer Beach. “We love that there’s always something going on at the pool every weekend” remarked members Tripp and Stephanie McDonald. “It feels like being on vacation every time we go. It makes our quadrant just a little more hip.” The pool features seven different bars, a DJ on weekends, and a grill that serves standard poolside fare as well as flatbreads, paninis, and salads. Guests will be even more relaxed this summer thanks to improvements such as new pool furniture. “The pool is a great way to get people into Southwest,” said General Manager Jeff Ragonese. “It’s helped our community.” Contact the Capitol Skyline Hotel (www.capitolskyline.com) at 10 I Street SW, Washington, DC 20024, or by calling 202-488-7500 or emailing info@ capitolskyline.com.
Everything Old Is New Again
L
Originally built in 1864, the Morrison-Clark Inn is undergoing an expansion and renovation of historic proportions. The result of this massive project, which will be completed in mid-September, will be modern amenities wrapped up in an ornate Victorian package. The Morrison-Clark Inn started life as two separate townhouses owned by two DC businessmen, before becoming the Soldiers’, Sailors’, Marines’, and
ooking for a break from the swampy heat this summer? Tired tourists and residents need travel no farther than Southwest DC, where the Capitol Skyline Hotel’s pool awaits. For the past several years Washington City Paper has recognized the Capitol Skyline Hotel facility as the best pool with a bar in DC, and it attracts people from across the city and from every demographic. “Most mornings you will find moms, their babies, and small children at the pool,” said Marsha Holliday, who became a member of the pool 25 years ago when her children were young. The pool offers a summer membership for singles, couples, and families as well as day passes for as little as $20. Events at the pool include the 2nd Annual Doggy Dive event, held after the pool closes for the season on Labor Day weekend. The pool is a haven for hotel guests and families during the week and on weekend mornings, but on weekend afternoons and evenings it morphs into a mix between Las Vegas and South The Morrison-Clark Inn Exterior and Dining Room
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Airmen’s Club. In the 1980s William Adair, who served as the supervisor for renovation at the White House, oversaw a restoration of the inn. Proximity to the Convention Center and K Street makes the Morrison-Clark Inn a favorite home-away-from-home for corporate travelers and convention-goers. To accommodate the expansion the Morrison-Clark Inn bought the old Chinese Community Church and the neighboring townhouse, located next door on L Street. With Forrester Construction Company at the helm of this massive project, the new and improved Morrison-Clark Inn will feature 114 guest rooms, an added 43,000 square feet of space in the new six-story structure, a business center, an executive conference room, and a fitness center. The inn will retain its Asian-Victorian design aesthetic and character by mixing touches such as custom raku kimono robes, by local artist Marcia Jestaedt, displayed behind the registration desk and the original four-pier mirrors and Carrara marble fireplaces in the hotel. Exterior changes include a brick-paved alley, an expanded courtyard, and additional underground parking. Contact Morrison-Clark Historic Inn & Restaurant (www.morrisonclark.com) at 1015 L St. NW, Washington, DC 20001, or call 202-898-1200.
Teaching Kids the Art of Movement June Idrissa, owner of Integrity of Self Movement Arts (ISMA), knows how to get children moving and, even more impressive, how to get them to sit still. With classes for children ages 12 months to 12 years, Idrissa has found the key to capturing and keeping
w w w.d clibr ar y.org
www.literaryhillbookfest.org
The DC Public Library presents
Literary hiLL BookFest
the
Reading Series A series of talks at Capitol Hill libraries by local authors inspired by the Literary Hill BookFest and based on Karen Lyon’s Literary Hill column in the Hill Rag
June Idrissa, owner of Integrity of Self Movement Arts (ISMA)
their attention. “The class is a wonderful opportunity for my daughter to improve her body awareness,” said Hill resident Donna Oti, whose 6-yearold daughter takes classes at ISMA. “It helps with her coordination and balance, and she has a better body awareness.” Hanging in one corner of Idrissa’s year-old studio is a skeleton, which she uses as a teaching tool. “One of the things I focus on is the body as a movement instrument,” she said. “I work with energy dynamics and being able to control that energy.” Idrissa also teaches her students Labanotation, which uses a system of symbols to analyze and record movement. A trained dancer, Idrissa incorporates music and elements of yoga, gymnastics, dance, and tai chi into her classes. In Idrissa’s toddler classes, which are offered during the school year, parents or caregivers are encouraged to stay and participate. This summer Idrissa will offer two summer camps, one for children ages 4 to 7 and the second for children ages 8 to 12. Each two-week camp is three hours per day. Said Idrissa, “When children leave here, they should feel very confident with themselves.” Contact ISMA (www.is-movementarts.com) at 1361 H St. NE, Washington, DC 20002, or call 202-215-9212 or email integrityofself@gmail.com. u
Northeast Neighborhood Library 330 7th St. NE Washington, DC 20002 northeastlibrary@dc.gov | 202-698-0058 Metro Stop: Union Station
JUNE 18th 7 p.m.
Southeast Neighborhood Library 403 7th St. SE Washington, DC 20003 southeastlibrary@dc.gov | 202-698-3377 Metro Stop: Eastern Market
at the Northeast Neighborhood Library
Mike Canning, author of Hollywood on the Potomac: How the Movies View Washington, D.C.
Rosedale Neighborhood Library
1701 Gale St., NE, Washington, DC 20002 rosedalelibrary@dc.gov | 202-727-5012 Metro Stop: Stadium-Armory
A long-time Hill resident, Mike has written about movies for the Hill Rag since 1993 and is a member of the Washington Area Film Critics Association. Visit him at mikesflix.com.
Sponsored by Capital Community News, Inc.
La Strega Accounting, Inc. Tax Services, Accounting, and QuickBooks Training
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June 2014 H 91
{real estate / changing hands}
Changing Hands Changing hands is a list of most residential sales in the District of Columbia from the previous month. A feature of every issue, this list, based on the MRIS, is provided courtesy of Don Denton, manager of the Coldwell Banker office on Capitol Hill. The list includes address, sales price and number of bedrooms. NEIGHBORHOOD
CLOSE PRICE BR
FEE SIMPLE 16TH STREET HEIGHTS 1410 MANCHESTER LN NW 1411 DECATUR ST NW 1604 LONGFELLOW ST NW 1107 ALLISON ST NW 1219 GALLATIN ST NW 5110 14TH ST NW 1312 BUCHANAN ST NW
ADAMS MORGAN 2305 ONTARIO RD NW
$953,000 $930,000 $875,000 $719,000 $701,000 $658,000 $440,000
4 7 4 3 5 7 3
$837,500
2
AMERICAN UNIVERSITY PARK 4420 VAN NESS ST NW 4010 VEAZEY ST NW 4830 DAVENPORT ST NW 4415 FESSENDEN ST NW 4405 HARRISON ST NW
ANACOSTIA
1322 TALBERT TER SE 2245 14TH ST SE 1416 RIDGE PL SE 1675 W ST SE
BARRY FARMS 2407 POMEROY RD SE
BLOOMINGDALE
120 RHODE ISLAND AVE NW
BRENTWOOD
2235 13TH ST NE 1905 CAPITOL AVE NE
BRIGHTWOOD
427 MADISON ST NW 6206 12TH ST NW 635 POWHATAN PL NW 704 NICHOLSON ST NW 6216 7TH ST NW 5820 3RD ST NW 514 OGLETHORPE ST NW 6211 5TH ST NW 719 SOMERSET PL NW 527 OGLETHORPE ST NW 513 SOMERSET PL NW 7541 9TH ST NW 717 TEWKESBURY PL NW
BROOKLAND
3061 CHANCELLOR’S WAY NE 3057 CHANCELLOR’S WAY NE 31 GIRARD ST NE 1018 KEARNY ST NE 4317 12TH ST NE 3509 17TH ST NE 1607 OTIS ST NE 19 MICHIGAN AVE NE 4537 SOUTH DAKOTA AVE NE 619 AVA CIR NE
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$1,627,500 $1,310,000 $1,300,000 $795,000 $764,000
5 4 5 4 4
$307,000 $150,000 $146,000 $75,000
3 3 3 3
$125,000
4
$735,000
3
$353,600 $235,000
2 3
$585,000 $572,000 $565,000 $516,135 $499,900 $474,000 $450,000 $439,000 $397,000 $390,000 $388,000 $371,000 $308,000
3 3 4 3 3 4 4 4 3 3 2 3 3
$790,000 $744,500 $717,500 $710,000 $682,500 $675,000 $586,000 $547,500 $510,000 $500,000
3 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 3 3
2335 3RD ST NE 2704 10TH ST NE 3905 17TH PL NE 720 DECATUR PL NE 629 EMERSON ST NE
BURLEITH
4052 MANSION DR NW 3616 S ST NW 1922 35TH PL NW
CAPITOL HILL
723 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NE 208 5TH ST SE
$417,500 $412,000 $372,500 $330,000 $243,000
2 3 3 3 2
$1,420,000 $845,200 $665,000
4 3 2
$1,985,000 $1,299,500
6 4
717 NORTH CAROLINA AVE SE 624 C ST NE 328 12TH ST SE 1107 D ST SE 1356 SOUTH CAROLINA AVE SE 404 10TH ST SE 536 11TH ST SE 205 6TH ST SE 335 F ST NE 532 5TH ST SE 324 16TH ST SE 1246 C ST NE 609 ACKER PL NE 110 10TH ST SE
$1,195,000 $1,100,000 $900,000 $889,500 $870,000 $850,000 $799,000 $780,000 $775,201 $758,700 $752,000 $739,000 $700,000 $692,000
3 2 3 3 3 2 3 2 3 3 3 2 2 2
SCHOOL’S NOT OUT
FOR SERIOUS STUDENTS OF THE MARKET! 30 9TH ST SE 322 KENTUCKY AVE SE 403 KENTUCKY AVE SE 1010 13TH ST SE 16 14TH ST SE 201 13TH ST SE 1525 K ST SE
$675,000 $644,000 $618,000 $592,500 $572,000 $570,000 $529,500
CHEVY CHASE 3817 KANAWHA ST NW 3717 HUNTINGTON ST NW 2636 MORELAND PL NW 2908 RITTENHOUSE ST NW 4220 JENIFER ST NW 2744 UNICORN LN NW 3226 MORRISON ST NW 3004 MCKINLEY ST NW 5712 32ND ST NW 5300 28TH ST NW 2763 UNICORN LN NW 3209 MCKINLEY ST NW 3135 QUESADA ST NW 3724 JOCELYN ST NW
$1,395,000 $1,250,000 $1,250,000 $1,166,000 $1,080,000 $1,040,000 $1,005,000 $955,000 $935,000 $927,000 $912,500 $875,000 $865,000 $785,000
2 2 2 3 2 2 2 5 5 7 5 4 5 3 4 4 5 3 4 4 4
CHILLUM 5935 3RD ST NW 27 MADISON ST NW
$650,000 $365,000
CLEVELAND PARK 3715 IDAHO AVE NW 3001 34TH ST NW 2923 34TH ST NW 3418 34TH ST NW 3422 GARFIELD ST NW
$2,525,000 $1,575,000 $1,071,000 $857,500 $1,720,000
COLONIAL VILLAGE 1639 MYRTLE ST NW
$879,900
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 1355 OAK ST NW 3001 13TH ST NW 1331 SPRING RD NW 1307 TAYLOR ST NW 3467 HOLMEAD PL NW 1111 FAIRMONT ST NW 1452 OGDEN ST NW 3805 KANSAS AVE NW 4127 ARKANSAS AVE NW 924 SPRING RD NW 725 ROCK CREEK CHURCH RD NW 3672 PARK PL NW 534 NEWTON PL NW 732 GIRARD ST NW 2520 12TH ST NW 502 PARK RD NW 1022 FAIRMONT ST NW 1304 SHEPHERD ST NW 526 LAMONT ST NW
$1,225,000 $1,150,000 $887,500 $780,000 $765,000 $730,000 $716,600 $689,000 $685,000 $642,000 $630,000 $605,000 $530,000 $461,000 $451,000 $435,000 $426,000 $425,000 $400,000
CONGRESS HEIGHTS 3829 1ST ST SE 631 RALEIGH PL SE 3311 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR AVE SE 3315 12TH ST SE 80 BRANDYWINE PL SW 800 HR DR SE 877 BARNABY ST SE 4610 6TH ST SE 653 RALEIGH PL SE
$240,000 $219,900 $210,000 $175,200 $175,000 $160,000 $159,900 $150,000 $121,200
CRESTWOOD 1860 UPSHUR ST NW $935,000 4600 ARGYLE TER NW $928,000 1714 UPSHUR ST NW $785,000 1616 WEBSTER ST NW $785,000 DAKOTA CROSSING
4 2
E BL A IL W! A AV NO
1632 G St SE 2BR/2BA $560,000
G IN ! M N CO OO S
3 level row home with large front porch! SMART layout, new wood floors and unique custom kitchen counters. Wellupdated over the years with re-finished deck, new HVAC, and remodeled bathrooms. HUGE Master bedroom with tons of closet space.
L A S ! N HE Y FI UC WA R TO DE N U
1336 A St SE 4 BR/3.5BA $1,250,000
All the KEY ingredients! Located perfectly between Eastern Market, Union Station, and Stanton Park with Southfacing façade shaded by flowering trees. Wide open welcoming spaces, 2-story kitchen atrium and more!
R T! DE C N A U TR N CO
Newly renovated by Keil Construction with high end finishes, attention to detail, and wellpreserved character throughout. Magnificent interior staircase, open and bright kitchen, dual rear porch, fully finished basement with kitchenette and extra-long back yard with parking. Around the corner from Lincoln Park and all the perks of Capitol Hill Living!
6 6 4 4 6
SO
! LD
119 Kentucky St SE 4BR/2.5BA $906,000 More than 2400 square feet over three large levels, featuring three upper bedrooms, two and a half baths, front living room/parlor with big bay, separate dining room, new eat-in kitchen, and spacious lower level den or guest suite. Clean basement laundry and storage room lead directly outside to a rare bonus- connected brick garage with roof-top flagstone patio! Pre-sold before listing.
654 6th St NE 3BR/3BA $815,000 Immaculate Bayfront with 3 bedrooms, 3 baths including lower level legal rental (w/ CofO). Open living room and dining with fireplace perfectly centered in the space. HUGE Master retreat with a wall of windows and separate main bathroom for the guest room or office! Gleaming refinished oak floors throughout. Beautiful iron steps leading up and new rear deck and stone patio for entertaining – come check it out today!
3 6 5 4 4 3 4 4 4 3 3 3 3 2 4 3 3 2 3 2
620 C St NE 3BR/2BA $825,000
G IN ! M N O C OO S
YOUR HOUSE HERE!
In times of market shift, homebuyers and sellers are finding our energy, creativity, and direct experience more vital than ever. For the BEST RESULTS, put us to work today! Call Joel for a free consultation on market values, smart improvements, and more!
3 3 4 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 7 4 4
June 2014 H 93
3208 THEODORE R HAGANS DR NE 3207 THEODORE R HAGANS DR NE
DEANWOOD
5022 CAPITOL ST NE 4419 JAY ST NE 212 DIVISION AVE NE 853 51ST ST NE 5205 BLAINE ST NE 30 53RD ST SE 815 51ST ST NE 5812 EADS ST NE 5814 EADS ST NE 4425 KANE PL NE
DUPONT
1719 SEATON ST NW
ECKINGTON
35 RANDOLPH PL NW 163 RHODE ISLAND AVE NE 133 U ST NE 35 U ST NE 1928 1ST ST NE
FOREST HILLS 5174 34TH ST NW
FORT DUPONT PARK 1234 45TH PL SE 4515 TEXAS AVE SE 3908 Q ST SE 4329 C ST SE 4035 D ST SE
FORT LINCOLN
3802 HANSBERRY CT NE
YERS. U B G N I V R SE LERS. L E S G N I V UNIT Y. SER M M O C R U SERVING O of Hilloween sor Proud Spon
Jackie VonSchlegel 202.255.2537 Mark Spiker 202.341.9880
jackie@jackiev.com
FOXHALL RIDGE 4524 WESTHALL DR NW
GARFIELD
2911 28TH ST NW 2506 WOODLEY RD NW
GEORGETOWN
3325 PROSPECT ST NW 3104 Q ST NW 1508 DUMBARTON ROCK CT NW 3318 RESERVOIR RD NW 1519 35TH ST NW 3325 RESERVOIR RD NW 1041 CECIL PL NW 2724 POPLAR ST NW 3934 GEORGETOWN CT NW
GLOVER PARK 3826 W ST NW 3834 CALVERT ST NW 3743 W ST NW
HILL CREST
3055 Q ST SE 1216 34TH PL SE 3414 CARPENTER ST SE
KALORAMA
2446 BELMONT RD NW 2122 BANCROFT PL NW 2206 DECATUR PL NW
202-547-5088 Licensed in DC, VA, MD & FL 94 H Hillrag.com
KENT
5149 MACARTHUR BLVD NW
$520,000 $448,000
3 3
$332,500 $248,000 $233,000 $228,900 $205,000 $149,000 $105,000 $100,000 $75,000 $40,000
3 4 4 3 4 2 2 2 2 4
$770,000
3
$902,000 $705,000 $600,000 $500,000 $345,000
5 4 4 3 3
$770,000
3
$400,000 $211,000 $189,032 $155,000 $136,000
4 2 3 3 4
$489,000
3
$1,948,591
3
$1,095,000 $950,000
4 5
$5,250,000 $2,485,000 $1,810,000 $1,679,000 $1,575,000 $1,510,000 $825,000 $740,000 $1,260,000
5 4 4 4 4 3 2 2 4
$953,125 $927,000 $910,150
3 3 3
$349,900 $335,000 $335,000
2 3 3
$5,295,000 $3,100,000 $2,049,000
9 5 2
$895,000
2
LEDROIT PARK 2307 1ST ST NW 64 V ST NW 1901 4TH ST NW 2330 1ST ST NW 128 BRYANT ST NW 2021 FLAGLER PL NW 410 ELM ST NW
LILY PONDS 334 35TH ST NE
LOGAN CIRCLE
1517 VERMONT AVE NW 1534 15TH ST NW 1420-1422 12TH ST NW
MARSHALL HEIGHTS 5028 A ST SE 4612 BASS PL SE 5213 CAPITOL ST SE
MICHIGAN PARK
1736 ALLISON ST NE 1229 GALLATIN ST NE 3723 SOUTH DAKOTA AVE NE
MOUNT PLEASANT 2721 ONTARIO RD NW 1725 HOBART ST NW 1834 LAMONT ST NW 1837 KILBOURNE PL NW 2331 17TH ST NW
NORTH CLEVELAND PARK 3723 WARREN ST NW 3731 VAN NESS ST NW
OLD CITY #1
660 G ST NE 1326 CORBIN PL NE 1351 G ST SE 410 KENTUCKY AVE SE 1606 G ST SE 1412 C ST NE 234 F ST NE 645 14TH PL NE 920 14TH ST SE 336 15TH ST SE 410 K ST NE 601 21ST ST NE 535 23RD PL NE 1340 K ST SE 1726 E ST NE 1801 E ST NE 242 10TH ST NE 323 18TH PL NE 303 17TH ST SE 1108 E ST SE
OLD CITY #2
2030 R ST NW 1333 R ST NW 1717 Q ST NW 929 WESTMINSTER ST NW 1839 9TH ST NW 1509 3RD ST NW 1719 4TH ST NW 209 BATES ST NW 124 BATES ST NW 641 Q ST NW 2227 10TH ST NW 219 R ST NW
$1,215,000 $1,030,000 $890,000 $782,800 $705,000 $650,000 $550,000
5 6 0 5 4 4 4
$255,000
4
$1,910,000 $1,231,000 $1,100,000
5 3 9
$369,900 $220,000 $120,000
4 3 3
$480,000 $420,000 $514,000
4 4 3
$1,240,000 $1,161,000 $1,150,000 $715,000 $580,000
5 3 5 3 2
$1,078,000 $775,000
3 3
$1,050,000 $763,264 $751,488 $730,000 $692,500 $656,000 $590,000 $575,000 $563,713 $550,000 $535,250 $511,000 $510,000 $460,000 $452,000 $415,000 $380,000 $380,000 $555,000 $907,000
4 4 3 3 3 4 3 3 3 2 3 4 2 2 2 3 2 4 2 4
$3,400,000 $2,000,000 $1,625,000 $1,050,000 $825,000 $770,000 $682,500 $670,000 $640,000 $561,000 $525,000 $520,000
5 10 7 5 3 3 4 3 3 3 2 5
Here Is What My Clients Are Saying...
PALISADES
4525 CLARK PL NW
PETWORTH
417 SHEPHERD ST NW 412 SHEPHERD ST NW 4826 7TH ST NW 4414 ILLINOIS AVE NW 4535 5TH ST NW 4404 ILLINOIS AVE NW 423 JEFFERSON ST NW 814 EMERSON ST NW 5018 ILLINOIS AVE NW 526 CRITTENDEN ST NW 615 WEBSTER ST NW 5006 5TH ST NW 743 MADISON ST NW 5020 5TH ST NW 4014 3RD ST NW 5319 4TH ST NW 4719 8TH ST NW 817 VARNUM ST NW 116 VARNUM ST NW 4519 GEORGIA AVE NW 4808 ILLINOIS AVE NW 319 EMERSON ST NW 5325 5TH ST NW 316 MADISON ST NW
RANDLE HEIGHTS 3465 23RD ST SE 3463 23RD ST SE 1459 CONGRESS PL SE
RIGGS PARK
331 QUACKENBOS ST NE 5219 12TH ST NE 5067 8TH ST NE 5901 8TH ST NE 525 PEABODY ST NE 419 ONEIDA ST NE 247 OGLETHORPE ST NE 703 KENNEDY ST NE 650 MADISON ST NE 5035 SARGENT RD NE
RIVER TERRACE
102 KENILWORTH AVE NE
ROSEDALE
1649 KRAMER ST NE
SHAW
1535 5TH ST NW 222 BATES ST NW
SHEPHERD PARK
7801 MORNINGSIDE DR NW
SPRING VALLEY
4800 WOODWAY LN NW 5149 TILDEN ST NW 3729 FORDHAM RD NW 5110 52ND CT NW 4810 GLENBROOK RD NW 4901 TILDEN ST NW 4821 UPTON ST NW
TAKOMA PARK 6506 EASTERN AVE NE 6131 1ST PL NE
TENLEY
3837 ALBEMARLE ST NW
The Best of Both Worlds: City Loft Living On Country Waterfront!
Capitol Hill is a hot market, and we couldn’t have done this without Dare’s knowledge and persistence. $750,000
4
$769,000 $759,000 $740,000 $722,000 $682,500 $679,000 $660,000 $645,000 $625,000 $613,000 $610,000 $570,000 $545,000 $530,000 $529,000 $525,000 $500,000 $485,000 $467,000 $450,000 $426,000 $320,000 $265,000 $600,000
6 4 4 3 4 3 4 4 4 4 3 4 4 3 4 3 3 4 3 3 5 3 3 4
$235,000 $234,990 $121,100
2 2 2
$517,500 $453,000 $369,000 $355,000 $349,990 $330,000 $322,500 $321,500 $305,000 $255,000
4 3 3 4 2 3 2 3 3 3
$184,500
2
$562,000
3
$685,000 $491,000
2 3
$764,000
4
$6,855,000 $2,200,000 $1,575,000 $1,449,000 $1,375,000 $1,370,000 $1,169,000
8 6 4 5 4 5 3
$395,000 $348,000
4 3
$673,000
3
Testimonial provided by my clients’ reviews on Zillow See more at: Zillow.com/profile/TopherAndDare
DARE JOHNSON WENZLER Realtor, Coldwell Banker Residential
Breathtaking views of the Wicomico River on nearly 8 acres. Old-fashioned post and beam construction combined with contemporary interior open plan design, including a loft second story master suite. One of a kind weekend retreat or year-round home. Amenities include a gourmet kitchen and radiant floor heating. All less than an hour and a half from Capitol Hill - without crossing the Bay Bridge! Potential owner financing for well-qualified buyer.- $889,000
Bonnie Baldus Grier Associate Broker bonniegrier@gmail.com
301.807.1400
202.957.2947
605 Pennsylvania Ave. SE office: 202.547.3525 Check out my blog for a weekly Capitol Hill open house update.
RealEstateOnTheHill.com
5-Star Premier agent
June 2014 H 95
TRINIDAD 1207 QUEEN ST NE 1938 BENNETT PL NE 1224 FLORIDA AVE NE 1404 MORSE ST NE 1301 TRINIDAD AVE NE 1274 16TH ST NE 1743 L ST NE 834 21ST ST NE
$515,000 $472,500 $446,000 $435,000 $425,000 $395,500 $350,000 $150,000
TRUXTON CIRCLE 142 BATES ST NW
$630,000
WESLEY HEIGHTS 4450 DEXTER ST NW 4433 LOWELL ST NW 3215 45TH ST NW 4372 WESTOVER PL NW
$2,725,000 $1,895,000 $1,650,000 $940,000
3 4 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 5 5 5 3
WOODLEY 2700 WOODLEY PL NW
$1,050,000
WOODRIDGE 2931 SOUTH DAKOTA AVE NE 1700 24TH ST NE 3000 20TH ST NE 3618 24TH ST NE 2930 MILLS AVE NE 2604 17TH ST NE 2408 EVARTS ST NE 2408 EVARTS ST NE
$539,999 $399,900 $325,000 $295,000 $292,000 $250,000 $186,000 $186,000
3 4 3 4 3 2 3 4 4
CONDO 13TH ST CONDO 2035 13TH ST NW #4 2035 13TH ST NW #3
$799,922 $725,000
ADAMS MORGAN
Your Neighbor On The Hill
“The road to success is not always straight; let me help you through the real estate maze to a happy and successful destination”
Deborah Charlton
Long and Foster Realtors Christie’s Great Estates
(202) 415-2117 (202) 944-8400 DC.DC@LongandFoster.com www.yourneighboronthehill.com 96 H Hillrag.com
2412 17TH ST NW #404 2328 CHAMPLAIN ST NW #310 2363 CHAMPLAIN ST NW #B 2434 ONTARIO RD NW #2 2633 ADAMS MILL RD NW #B-4
$620,000 $570,000 $549,900 $470,000 $386,000
2 2 2 2 2 1 2
AMERICAN UNIVERSITY PARK 4101 ALBEMARLE ST NW #613 4101 ALBEMARLE ST NW #548
$480,000 $445,000
BLOOMINGDALE 2119 FLAGLER PL NW #2 161 RANDOLPH PL NW #1 70 RHODE ISLAND AVE NW #501 2022 FLAGLER PL NW ## FL02
$675,000 $465,000 $390,000 $356,000
BRIGHTWOOD 921 BUTTERNUT ST NW #202 6718 3RD ST NW #105-B
$340,000 $249,900
BROOKLAND 3007 HAWTHORNE DR NE #3007
$270,000
CAPITOL HILL 1400 K ST SE #1 410 5TH ST NE #33 629 CONSTITUTION AVE NE #205 440 12TH ST NE #111 752 9TH ST SE #201 1391 PENNSYLVANIA AVE SE #531 649 C ST SE #302 1391 PENNSYLVANIA AVE SE #365
$782,000 $585,000 $523,700 $501,750 $471,500 $460,000 $455,000 $422,000
1 1 2 2 1 1 2 1 2 3 2 2 2 2 2 1 1
115 D ST SE #107 305 C ST NE #203 201 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NE #301 339 N ST SW #339
$401,999 $200,000 $174,500 $350,000
CATHEDRAL HEIGHTS 3901 CATHEDRAL AVE NW #514
$267,000
1 0 0 2 1
CENTRAL 925 H ST NW #902 1010 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #613 1150 K ST NW #1002 925 H ST NW #907 400 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #1008 631 D ST NW #932 1325 18TH ST NW #R-1009 777 7TH ST NW #808 1330 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW #201 2311 M ST NW #903 631 D ST NW #637 1230 23RD ST NW #705 777 7TH ST NW #810 1312 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #506 1260 21ST ST NW #904 1316 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW #106
$1,096,150 $610,000 $599,000 $567,000 $529,750 $450,000 $445,000 $445,000 $445,000 $439,000 $420,000 $419,000 $409,000 $390,000 $325,000 $251,500
CHEVY CHASE 5229 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #1009 4750 41ST ST NW #406 5406 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #407
$605,000 $595,000 $210,000
CLEVELAND PARK 3680 38TH ST NW #B242 3420 38TH ST NW #415 3880 RODMAN ST NW #212 3028 WISCONSIN AVE NW #B8 2755 ORDWAY ST NW #103
$624,900 $600,415 $470,000 $326,000 $206,000
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 1449 HARVARD ST NW #6 1341 IRVING ST NW #D 3039 16TH ST NW #PH-2 1336 BELMONT ST NW #101 1331 KENYON ST NW #4 3545 13TH ST NW #2 1103 PARK RD NW #6 1451 BELMONT ST NW #324 2543 13TH ST NW #1 2550 UNIVERSITY PL NW #3 1362 MONROE ST NW #B 1221 KENYON ST NW #1 1419 CLIFTON ST NW #302 1419 CLIFTON ST NW #205 1478 HARVARD ST NW #1 1356 KENYON ST NW #1 1420 CLIFTON ST NW #304 1451 BELMONT ST NW #303 1300 TAYLOR ST NW #3 2639 15TH ST NW #206 3511 13TH ST NW #204 3500 13TH ST NW #504 4120 14TH ST NW #7 3900 14TH ST NW #505 2608 SHERMAN AVE NW #03 1451 PARK RD NW #217 1451 PARK RD NW #115 3642 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW #1
$789,000 $775,000 $749,000 $680,000 $657,880 $650,000 $649,555 $645,000 $639,900 $620,000 $609,000 $570,000 $560,000 $530,000 $519,900 $465,000 $455,000 $440,000 $350,000 $337,000 $334,900 $329,000 $310,000 $299,000 $235,000 $225,000 $199,900 $740,000
DEANWOOD 4633 MINNESOTA AVE NE #4633
$155,000
2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 3 2 0 4 4 3 1 0 2 2 2 2 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 1 1 0 3 3
DUPONT 1700 Q ST NW #3
$830,000
2
FIRST
OPEN
1838 16TH ST NW #2 1625 19TH ST NW #40 1506 17TH ST NW #12 1916 17TH ST NW #110 1727 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #202 1828 RIGGS PL NW #2 1601 18TH ST NW #718 1825 T ST NW #503 2031 Q ST NW #4 1619 R ST NW #106 1916 17TH ST NW #401 2141 P ST NW #801 1718 P ST NW #208 1931 17TH ST NW #401 1545 18TH ST NW #116 1718 P ST NW #612 2130 N ST NW #409 1718 P ST NW #720
ECKINGTON
147 R ST NE #12 1831 2ND ST NE #202 249 FLORIDA AVE NW #33 1831 2ND ST NE #504 1831 2ND ST NE #507 2004 3RD ST NE #103 2004 3RD ST NE #102 1831 2ND ST NE #509 314 V ST NE #B-2
FOGGY BOTTOM
3 WASHINGTON CIR NW #508 2425 L ST NW #211
FOREST HILLS
4701 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #204 3883 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #605
GARFIELD
2737 DEVONSHIRE PL NW #218
GEORGETOWN
3052 R ST NW #UNIT 305 1077 30TH ST NW #203 1010 PAPER MILL CT NW #1010 3244 GRACE ST NW #3244 3251 PROSPECT ST NW #R-308 1080 WISCONSIN AVE NW #1019 3120 R ST NW #107
GLOVER PARK
2320 WISCONSIN AVE NW #207 2725 39TH ST NW #509 2325 42ND ST. ST NW #104 2339 40TH PL NW #002 4029 BENTON ST NW #101
H STREET
642 15TH ST NE 1367 FLORIDA AVE NE #301
HILL CREST
2105 SUITLAND TER SE #A 2016 37TH ST SE #102
KALORAMA
1943 BELMONT RD NW #1117 2301 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #1D 2009 BELMONT RD NW #204 2012 WYOMING AVE NW #103 1831 BELMONT RD NW #203 1831 BELMONT RD NW #402 2032 BELMONT RD NW #504
$751,000 $515,000 $431,750 $374,000 $371,500 $360,000 $256,000 $237,500 $895,000 $578,000 $431,000 $399,900 $395,000 $353,000 $335,000 $330,100 $309,000 $285,000
2 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 3 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0
$372,000 $341,900 $339,000 $244,900 $242,900 $240,000 $225,000 $215,000 $85,000
2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 0
$662,200 $585,000
2 1
$626,000 $395,000
2 1
$785,000
2
$1,660,000 $769,900 $640,000 $605,000 $595,000 $465,000 $323,000
3 2 2 2 1 1 1
$340,500 $340,000 $269,000 $234,000 $221,000
1 1 1 1 1
$520,000 $380,000
2 2
$115,000 $99,000
2 2
$639,000 $455,000 $379,000 $369,500 $362,500 $319,130 $259,900
2 1 1 1 1 1 0
SUNDAY JUNE 8, 2-4 PM LUSCIOUS LOVEJOY LOFTS
Sensational 2 BR plus loft. Open spaces, terrifically tall ceilings, walls of enormous multi pane school windows, center island kitchen, original details including schoolroom blackboards, very pet friendly (multiple large pets allowed), and parking. Easy access to Lincoln Park, Eastern Market, shops, restaurants and many Metros.
$499,900 440 12th St, NE unit 109 Call Pam 202-253-2550 or Hub 202-550-2111
Licensed in DC, MD & VA
CONGRATULATIONS TO PARENTS OF RECENT GRADUATES! ALL YOUR HARD WORK HAS FINALLY PAID OFF!
Joan Carmichael Realtor 202.271.5198 joanvcarmichael@gmail.com Bridgette Cline Realtor 202.271.4196 bcline8041@aol.com for all you real estate needs 1000 Pennsylvania Ave., SE Wash., DC 20003 office #202-546-0055 June 2014 H 97
Making Your Real Estate a Success Story!
Sweet Spot Location! UNDER CONTRACT 305 E St, NE. $759,000
The GranT, ryall & andrew Group Grant Griffith 202.741.1685 Ryall Smith 202.741.1781 Andrew Glasow 202.741.1654
LEDROIT PARK
519 FLORIDA AVE NW #3 150 V ST NW #V207
LOGAN
1413 P ST NW #302 1444 CHURCH ST NW #704 1425 11TH ST NW #504 1229 12TH ST NW #107 24 LOGAN CIR NW #6 1516 Q ST NW #PENTHOUSE 1516 Q ST NW #FLAT TWO 1515 15TH ST NW #416 1515 P ST NW #3 1516 Q ST NW #FLAT ONE 1451 N ST NW #2 1715 15TH ST NW #16 1515 15TH ST NW #202 1715 15TH ST NW #29 24 LOGAN CIR NW #4 1325 13TH ST NW #104 1420 N ST NW #206 1215 10TH ST NW #32
MOUNT PLEASANT
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage 605 Pennsylvania Ave. SE • 202.547. 3525
www.hillrag.com
1801 CALVERT ST NW #G2 1801 WYOMING AVE NW #25
ADVERTISE HERE. GET RESULTS.
2713 ONTARIO RD NW #5 1616 BEEKMAN PL NW #A 1660 BEEKMAN PL NW #C 2633 ADAMS MILL RD NW #402 1650 BEEKMAN PL NW #A 1613 HARVARD ST NW #202 1673 PARK RD NW #401 1673 PARK RD NW #B2 1763 COLUMBIA RD NW #509
MT VERNON TRIANGLE 440 L ST NW #604 910 M ST NW #1018 811 4TH ST NW #514 811 4TH ST NW #502
NAVY YARD
1025 1ST ST SE #415
OBSERVATORY CIRCLE
CALL KIRA
202.543.8300 X16 “We are part of Capitol Hill, We don’t just work here... We live here, too. Let our neighborhood experience work for you...”
2801 NEW MEXICO AVE NW #613/614 2828 WISCONSIN AVE NW #504 2801 NEW MEXICO AVE NW #607 2801 NEW MEXICO AVE NW #702 3901 TUNLAW RD NW #505 2800 WISCONSIN AVE NW #209
OLD CITY #1
1315 INDEPENDENCE AVE SE #5 215 I ST NE #110 730 11TH ST NE #103 1391 PENNSYLVANIA AVE SE #MO7 1391 PENNSYLVANIA AVE SE #412 1836 INDEPENDENCE AVE SE #2 410 15TH ST NE #12
OLD CITY #2
202.546.3100 210 7th Street, SE. #100. WDC 20003 www.monarchtitle.net
98 H Hillrag.com
1125 11TH ST NW #801 1125 11TH ST NW #702 1124 10TH ST NW #4B 1426 RHODE ISLAND AVE NW #E 12091219 13TH ST NW #607 1725 WILLARD ST NW #4 1300 N ST NW #505 1209 13TH ST NW #607
$340,000 $439,000
1 1
$477,500 $375,000
2 1
$1,890,000 $1,329,000 $775,000 $708,000 $505,000 $1,630,000 $1,000,000 $980,000 $962,187 $840,000 $722,700 $540,000 $540,000 $460,000 $454,000 $399,900 $290,000 $463,600
3 2 2 2 1 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1
$785,000 $713,500 $688,600 $620,000 $610,000 $599,000 $449,500 $357,000 $285,000
3 2 2 3 2 2 2 2 1
$570,000 $805,500 $426,000 $424,000
2 2 1 1
$564,900
2
$1,050,000 $716,500 $670,000 $349,000 $280,000 $194,900
2 2 2 1 1 0
$635,000 $620,000 $411,000 $380,000 $349,800 $325,000 $229,000
1 1 2 2 1 2 1
$950,000 $889,500 $790,000 $685,000 $609,900 $595,000 $573,000 $569,900
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1
MIKE HAYWOOD, BROKER 304.790.2820 CHAD HAYWOOD, REALTOR 304.790.0126 1.800.651.5540
Specializing in Selling Farms, Land, Country Estates, Riverfront and Mountaintop Resort Properties
OWNER RETIRING - MOUNTAINEER ALL STAR CAFE 555 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #1213 1232 4TH ST NW #2 1441 RHODE ISLAND AVE NW #511 1441 RHODE ISLAND AVE NW #407 910 M ST NW #204 475 K ST NW #312 475 K ST NW #411 7 LOGAN CIR NW #B1 437 NEW YORK AVE NW #324 1306 12TH ST NW #D 440 L ST NW #906 301 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #604 1727 R ST NW #501 811 4TH ST NW #301 440 L ST NW #502 1725 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW #301 1711 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #625 1239 VERMONT AVE NW #606 1239 VERMONT AVE NW #510 1711 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #202 1 SCOTT CIR NW #811 1 SCOTT CIR NW #411 1718 P ST NW #719
PALISADES
4625 MACARTHUR BLVD NW #B
PENN QUARTER
601 PENNSYLVANIA AVE NW #610 601 PENNSYLVANIA AVE NW #309
PETWORTH
939 LONGFELLOW ST NW #110
RANDLE HEIGHTS 3031 BUENA VISTA SE #6
RLA (SW)
827 3RD ST SW #310 800 4TH ST SW #N-321 700 7TH ST SW #311 1101 3RD ST SW #505
SHAW
515 Q ST NW #2 1117 10TH ST NW #611 1209 4TH ST NW #1 1215 10TH ST NW #41 910 M ST NW #303 1827 6TH ST NW #3
SHERIDAN STATION 2518 SAYLES PL SE #9 2518 SAYLES PL SE #11 2501 SAYLES PL SE #11
SW WATERFRONT
300 M ST SW #N107 755 DELAWARE AVE SW #181
TENLEYTOWN
4101 ALBEMARLE ST NW #418
TRINIDAD
1219 HOLBROOK TER NE #3 1242 QUEEN ST NE #2
U STREET
2101 11TH ST NW #501 2100 11TH ST NW #305 2125 14TH ST NW #318-W 1407 W ST NW #201 2125 14TH ST NW #616
$542,500 $525,000 $500,000 $491,000 $465,000 $447,500 $441,000 $439,000 $435,000 $433,900 $429,900 $425,000 $410,000 $410,000 $399,750 $399,000 $295,000 $294,900 $293,000 $275,000 $275,000 $255,000 $249,000
2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0
$610,000
2
$384,500 $330,000
1 1
$150,000
3
$20,000
3
$425,000 $395,000 $251,000 $235,000
2 2 1 0
$630,000 $588,000 $575,000 $516,000 $510,000 $437,041
2 2 2 2 1 1
$376,900 $331,400 $305,400
3 3 2
$235,000 $624,000
1 3
$399,999
1
$214,900 $130,000
2 1
$679,900 $658,750 $929,900 $650,000 $641,000
2 2 2 2 1
Keyser, WV – Well Established Sports Bar, Restaurant and Lounge in operation for over 30 years offered “Turn Key”. 118 Seating Capacity. Restaurant and Bar separated for Patron Privacy. Ample Parking on US Rte # 220 w High Traffic Volume. Owner will Entertain All Reasonable Offers… Only $575,000
“BEST KEPT SECRET IN THE EAST” HUNT, FISH, BOAT & BEACH ALL WITHIN REACH! Jennings Randolph Lake Keyser, WV – (2) New Mtntop Cabins w Cathedral Pine Clgs, Open Loft, 3 BR’s, 2 BA’s (Log or Cedar Siding) on 10 Acs. Rec Amenities incl: Full Size Lake, Boat Launch, New Swimming Beach, Scenic Ovrlk, 2 Nature Trails, Campgrounds, 6,000 WML for Big Game Hunting & North Branch Potomac River for Rafting & Trophy (Trout) Fishing. Prices Drastically Reduced... ACT FAST!!
mikehaywoodgroup.com
Peter Frias “Your Connection to Capitol Hill and Beyond” I’ve been representing buyers and sellers on the Hill for over 15 years, and I can help you too! 1% of my commissions are donated to Habitat for Humanity DC
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2128 11TH ST NW #6 1706 U ST NW #204 2250 11TH ST NW ## 106 929 FLORIDA AVE NW #15 1390 V ST NW #403 2120 VERMONT AVE NW #304
WAKEFIELD
4700 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #605 4740 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #715
WATERFRONT
1101 3RD ST SW #711
WESLEY HEIGHTS
3203 SUTTON PL NW #3203D 4200 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #801 4201 CATHEDRAL AVE NW #1213W 4201 CATHEDRAL AVE NW #1021W 4200 CATHEDRAL AVE NW #815
WEST END
1111 23RD ST NW #S2B 2301 N ST NW #405 2201 L ST NW #609
WOODLEY PARK
2801 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #15
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CENTRAL
1026 16TH ST NW #805
CHEVY CHASE
5112 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #208
CLEVELAND PARK
CONGRESS HEIGHTS 20 CHESAPEAKE ST SE #C-21
DUPONT
1734 P ST NW #34 1701 16TH ST NW #330 1701 16TH ST NW #326 1514 17TH ST NW #505 1514 17TH ST NW #209 1701 16TH ST NW #710
FOGGY BOTTOM
700 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW #919 950 25TH ST NW #210N 2475 VIRGINIA AVE NW #918 950 25TH ST NW #417 N 2475 VIRGINIA AVE NW #219 2475 VIRGINIA AVE NW #224
FOREST HILLS
3601 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #118
KALORAMA
2100 19TH ST NW #802
MOUNT PLEASANT
2853 ONTARIO RD NW #511 1705 LANIER PL NW #106 1820 CLYDESDALE PL NW #312
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2 1 2 1 1 1
$508,000 $430,000
1 2
$299,711
1
$625,000 $355,000 $290,000 $269,500 $197,500
2 1 1 1 1
$1,700,000 $397,750 $255,000
3 1 0
$430,480
2
COOP
3601 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #605 2802 DEVONSHIRE PL NW #307
home on the Hill
$640,000 $315,000 $640,000 $499,000 $470,000 $421,000
NAVY YARD
1000 NEW JERSEY AVE SE #302
OBSERVATORY CIRCLE 3900 CATHEDRAL AVE NW #304A 4101 CATHEDRAL AVE NW #805 3900 WATSON PL NW #A-4G 3900 WATSON PL NW #B-1C 4101 CATHEDRAL AVE NW #206
OLD CITY #2
2039 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW #203 1425 T ST NW #304
PETWORTH
5220 NORTH CAPITOL ST NW #309 215 EMERSON ST NW #203
RIVER PARK
1311 DELAWARE AVE SW #S-831
RLA (SW)
1301 DELAWARE AVE SW #N 801/802 560 N ST SW #N409 1301 DELAWARE AVE SW #N-712
SOUTHWEST WATERFRONT 490 M ST SW #W807 1311 DELAWARE AVE SW #S441
SW WATERFRONT
1301 DELAWARE AVE SW #N209 $990,000
3
$313,500
2
TIBER ISLAND
1245 4TH ST SW #E705
VAN NESS NORTH
3001 VEAZEY TERRACE NW #715 $439,000 $339,000
1 1
$17,500
1
$451,000 $299,900 $324,900 $250,000 $229,000 $193,000
2 1 1 0 0 0
$500,000 $297,500 $279,000 $268,000 $190,000 $185,000
1 1 1 1 0 0
$455,000
1
$387,000
2
$451,000 $299,000 $255,000
1 1 1
WATERFRONT 520 N ST SW #S-416
WATERGATE
$400,000
2
$625,000 $590,000 $405,000 $385,000 $270,000
2 3 2 2 2
$443,000 $89,324
1 2
$205,500 $132,500
2 2
$218,500
2
$310,000 $256,000 $188,000
3 1 2
$285,000 $160,000
1 1
$162,000
1
$290,000
1
$275,000
1
$312,500
1
700 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW #402/403 $1,350,000 700 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW #310 $700,000 2500 VIRGINIA AVE NW #608-S $315,000 â—†
3 2 1
Celebrate DC Flag Day!
#DCFlagDay
Sat. June 14
Grab your DC Flag & Camera. Enter Your DC Flag Photo in the 2014 Competition! Show off your DC love with a photo of your DC flag (maybe even your DC flag tattoo!) And what gets people more excited than a little friendly competition, the prospect of having your picture selected to be published in your local paper, and great prizes donated by favorite local businesses! The photo contest will run the week of Monday, June 9th and end on Saturday, June 14. Share your photos the following ways: Twitter: use the hashtag #DCFlagDay Email: send to DCFlagDay@gmail.com Facebook: post your picture at www.facebook.com/DCFlagDay
LOOKING FOR AN IDEA? Try out these DC Flag Day Themes: DC icon photo (take your picture hoisting a DC flag at notable spots like Eastern Market, Yards Park, Congressional Cemetery, O Street Market, or any of your favorite local spots) School spirit photo (get pictures from your local schools with all the kids with DC flags) Friends and Family photo (take a picture on your front porch or at the park holding up your DC flag - and yes, pets are part of the family!) Winning photos will be published in July The Hill Rag, East of the River and MidCity DC Newspapers. Check the www.facebook.com/DCFlagDay for prizes. June 2014 H 101
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{arts & dining} pork patty slathered with jalapeno mayo, shredded pickled daikon, cukes and carrots, served with house-made tater tots. My Maryland-style oyster po’boy was plumped with fried oysters enlivened with Old Bay mayo and strips of tomato, accompanied by crunchy chips. Lunch for two with a drink apiece came to $42 before tip. Located at 300 Tingey St. SE, Bluejacket is open daily for lunch and dinner; call 202-524-4862 or go to www.bluejacketdc.com.
Noted in NoMa We found ourselves in NoMa recently and decided to try TDB Burger, the casual eatery which former Top Chef contender Timothy Dean unveiled earlier this year. I met Dean a few years ago when he operated a high-end restaurant in the St. Regis downtown. Dean is a protégé of the late, great Jean-Louis Palladin, who introduced Washington—including Peter and me--to innovative cuisine, using mainly local ingredients, in the 1980s. Now Timothy has gone down-home with burgers and fries. Taking advantage of the warm day, we sat outside. I settled on the “Sonia from the Bronx” burger, heaped with avocado, cheddar, mushrooms and grilled romaine. The flavorful, plump patty was grilled just right: medium rare. Peter’s Abe Lincoln featured smoked gouda and Asian BBQ sauce. Dean’s sweet potato fries were addictive. The setup is rather cumbersome: Patrons must purchase alcohol separately in the bar area, but that did not impact the service, delivered by a pleasant young woman named Gigi. Open daily, TD Burger is at 250 K St. NE; call 202-546-2433 or www.tdburger.com.
Dining Notes by Celeste McCall
S
ausages sizzled on the woodburning grill as we lunched al fresco at the Arsenal, the restaurant arm of Bluejacket. Located in the renovated Boilermaker Shops near Yards Park, Bluejacket (slang for Navy personnel) is part of the Neighborhood Restaurant Group, which also operates Birch & Barley, ChurchKey, and other hot spots. Bluejacket’s soaring interior is criss-crossed with gleaming pipes and other brewing equipment, as hops reign supreme. Beer director Greg Engert offers a rotating selection of 20 beers and five cask ales. Forbidden Planet, a light brew with a delicate floral accent complemented Peter’s banh mi burger, a chicken and
Indian Delight At Indigo, across the street from TDB Burgers, we enjoyed a totally different experience. If the name sounds familiar, Dinesh and Nidhi Tandon’s bricks-and-mortar restaurant is a spinoff of Eastern Market’s weekend stand, also called Indigo. Overseeing Indigo’s NoMA kitchen is chef Nidhi (a vegetarian), who creates Punjabi recipes from northern India. She makes everything from scratch and even grinds her own spices. That explains the mouthwatering aromas wafting through the front door. Bollywood videos blare from two TV screens. Nidhi’s bustling kitchen is visible through an archway, where customers place their orders. On the menu, scrawled on a chalk board, we found umpteen meat and vegetable appetizers, entrees and sides. Patrons are invited to help themselves to drinks –including beer and wine-from a corner fridge. Peter’s mango lassi arrived with the food.
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Picking up lunch at Indigo’s kitchen window. Photo: Celeste McCall
We managed to find a table in the crowded, 22-seat dining room. The outside area accommodates another 60. Peter chose chicken tikka, while I ordered goat curry with a side order of palak paneer—spicy spinach with cubes of mild white cheese. Not that we needed the latter, since entrees arrived with rice, roti and chana masala--curried chick peas. Indigo also offers thali, a tasting of several dishes. Portions were huge, and we took some home. Indigo is not fancy; plates are styrofoam, cups are paper, utensils plastic. Entrees range from about $9 to $12 and $3 for most sides; credit cards are accepted. Located at 243 K St, NE, Indigo is open Monday-Friday from 11 a.m. 9 p.m.; Saturday 4 to 9 p.m., closed Sunday. Call 202-544-4777.
Tra poco Tra poco (soon), Silver Spork, 303 Seventh St. SE (7th and C), is morphing into Radici. Construction plans are finalized, as Venetian glass fixtures and terra cotta flooring arrives from Italy. Formerly Marvelous Market, and then Silver Spork, Radici remains open during the facelift, specializing in high-end Italian food and wine. For updates go to www. radici-market.com.
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Pho Burgers? Coming up June 21: An encore of Spike Mendelsohn sold-out Vietnamese cooking class last spring at Hill Center. His nearby restaurants-Good Stuff Eatery, We the Pizza and Bearnaise –are known for burgers, pizza and bistro fare, but Spike has cooked his way through Vietnam and will again share his expertise with a hands-on session. Priced at $85 per person, class will go from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Hill Center is at 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE; for more information call 202-543-3893 or www.hillcenterdc.org.
Cheesy In April, National Grilled Cheese Day marked the debut of GCDC, 1730 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. The name means Grilled Cheese DC, and creates all sorts of grilled cheese sandwiches for lunch, before morphing into a wine and cheese mecca at night. Owned by Bruce J. Klores, GCDC is downtown. But Capitol Hill is also getting cheesy as more restaurants are offering this homespun staple. Some kitchens pair the classic with tomato soup, evoking childhood memories. On Barracks Row, Ted’s Bulletin, 505 Eighth St. SE, showcases
Ted’s Famous Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup. For its “American Classic,” Sona Creamery, 660 Pennsylvania Ave. SE snuggles a variety of cheeses between freshly-baked bread…..at Curbside Café, 257 15th St. SE, rosemaryspiked bread adds zing…taking a simple approach is the Tune Inn, 331 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, adding bacon if requested….Café Kimchi, 751 Eighth St. SE (Barracks Row) provides an Asian twist with kimchi…Bluejacket, 300 Tingey St. SE near Yards Park, spreads talleggio (semi-soft Italian cheese), with apple butter…
Sweet Spinoff Robb Duncan, co-owner of Dolcezza (near Union Market), has unveiled his sixth location, set to open June 1 at 1418 14th Street, NW. Designed by Grupo 7, Dolcezza’s newest offshoot features a “to-go” window that allows customers to order gelato and Stumptown Coffee from the street. Another addition is a sundae bar. The 1,000 square foot space was originally a pharmacy, built in 1878; Dolcezza is keeping the original entrance and retail shelving. The 30-seat store (plus 10 outdoor spots) has an apothecary feel with light fixtures from Housewerks Salvage in Baltimore. Dolcezza 14th Street is open daily. Other siblings are at 550 Penn Street, NE, Mosaic District, Georgetown, Dupont Circle, and Bethesda. For more information, visitwww.dolcezzagelato.com. Celeste McCall is a long time food/restaurant/travel writer and cookbook author. She may be reached at celeste@us.net. Or, visit her blog: Celestial Bites. u
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{arts and dining / dining}
Chef Richard Sandoval searing translucent sea scallops in the open kitchen at Toro Toro.
ABOVE: Seared scallops, plated and ready to go. RIGHT: Chef Richard Sandoval garnishing a fresh, seared sea scallop dish at Toro Toro. Photo: Leo Schmid
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In the Chef’s Kitchen Richard Sandoval article by Annette Nielsen, photos by Leo Schmid
Chef Richard Sandoval speaking with the writer in Toro Toro’s comfortable and inviting dining room at 1300 I St. NW.
ichard Sandoval is a Beard-nominated restaurateur who has created more than 40 restaurant concepts –nationally in Florida, Arizona, or California – or around the globe in Serbia, Qatar, and Dubai. In the District you can find a few of his restaurants like El Centro (in Georgetown and on 14th Street), Masa 14, Zengo, and his latest opening, a pan-Latin steakhouse, Toro Toro, with many small-plate offerings. Last month, I sat down with him to talk about his career and to spend an hour watching him cook. Born in Mexico City, Richard Sandoval didn’t start out wanting to be a chef, but as a young child he’d join his grandmother in the kitchen where he learned to prepare vibrant Mexican fare from scratch. “So, there were two things I re-
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ally learned at my grandmother’s side: taste the food as you go, and have great ingredients,” he says of this bold and colorful cuisine. He picked up on the service and restaurant management side of the food world from his father, who was in the hospitality business. Sandoval moved to southern California and during college he studied hotel management, but his primary focus was honing his talent for tennis. While he played professional tennis in the satellite circuit through Europe, he kept coming back to food and eventually enrolled at the Culinary Institute of America. “I realized I needed to make a decision – either stay with the tennis and maybe start teaching the sport,
or follow my passion for food,” says Sandoval. Back in Mexico Sandoval opened an Italian restaurant for his father, and after a couple of years he left his family’s restaurants in Acapulco and decided to move to New York. In 1995 he opened a FrenchAmerican restaurant, Savann, on the Upper West Side, but kept feeling that the city really needed a great Mexican restaurant. He eventually opened Maya, a restaurant that paid homage to his roots. “My goal was to show that Mexican culture and the cuisine is different than just tacos and tequila. I had to change people’s idea of Mexican food – it was selling the idea, showing that it could represent a larger spectrum and be more
Chef Sandoval’s Summer Scallops Pick up lovely, slightly sweet New Bedford scallops from your local fish monger – they come from the Eastern seaboard. A trio per person should do it as they’re pretty substantial, or serve with small plates for a larger party. 4 ounces (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter 3 large New Bedford scallops Zest from half a lemon ¼ cup white wine Pinch of chile flakes 1 tablespoon heavy cream Pinch of chives, chopped, and micro greens ¼ cup panko (bread crumbs) ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
P
reheat oven to 350 F. Melt two tablespoons of butter in a small sauté pan over medium-high heat and sear scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove from pan and set aside. Take breadcrumbs, Parmesan, chile flakes, and two tablespoons of butter and process in food processor until paste forms. Spread a dollop on top of each scallop and bake for several minutes until top begins to brown. In the meantime make a lem-
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on butter sauce by reducing a quarter cup of dry white wine by half as you simmer in a small saucepan over medium high heat. Add lemon zest and heavy cream. Heat for a minute or so; reduce until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in four tablespoons of room-temperature butter while whisking. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Plate scallops with Parmesan crust facing up; spoon sauce around scallop perimeters. Garnish with chopped chives and micro greens.
refined and sophisticated.” Sandoval sees correlations between different cuisines. “Maybe you have crema fresca instead of sour cream or crème fraiche, and you use similar proteins like you use in French cuisine, it’s just with a Latin flair.” Sandoval hit a low point after opening Maya when the 125-seat restaurant almost closed. Then, in July 1997, the New York Times’ Ruth Reichl awarded Maya an impressive two stars. Sandoval says, “Before the review we were serving 40 to 50 people a night; after the review we were up to 250 people, with the tables turning a couple of times.” After Maya had been in business for a couple of years, Sandoval was able to open a second location in San Francisco, receiving a great review from the San Francisco Chronicle’s Michael Bauer. He has won a number of awards, including Mexico’s National Toque d’Oro (2003), Bon Appétit Restaurateur of the Year (2006), and Cordon d’Or Restaurateur of the Year (2012). Logging about 250,000 air miles a year from his home in southern California, Sandoval says, “I love what I do, I love creating restaurants, cooking for people – you get instant gratification, you can see it in people’s faces. However, I am frequently on the road, so if there was any one thing I could change it would be to find a little more balance, to have more time with my wife and kids.” To prepare one of the chef’s signature dishes, try this elegant recipe, easy enough for a fast supper or perfect for a dinner party that includes many small plates. Open daily, Toro Toro is located at 1300 I St. NW, 202-682-9500, richardsandoval.com/torotorodc. u
Enjoy The Lazy Days of Summer in Our Beirgarten Happy Hour from Mon.-Fri., 3 p.m. - 6 p.m.
202.543.7656 322-B Massachusetts Ave., NE | Washington, DC 20002
www.cafeberlindc.com June 2014 H 109
{arts and dining / film}
At The Movies
Two Singular Personalities: A Polish Novice and a Welsh Working Stiff by Mike Canning Ida “Ida,” the new film written and directed by Pawel Pawlikowski, tells an intricate two-character story in a throw-back world, Poland in the early 1960’s. Honored at film festivals in Toronto, London and Warsaw, it comes to Washington with accolades which are wholly deserved (now in theaters, it is unrated and runs 80 minutes). It is 1962 Poland. Anna (Agata Trzebuchowska) is an 18-year-old novice at a rural convent where she has lived since she was orphaned as an infant. Only a week before ordination she is urged to visit her only living relative, her mother’s sister Wanda (Agata Kulesza). Her aunt is a former hard-line Communist state prosecutor (known as
The two female roles are in stark contrast. Young Trzebuchowska personifies the angelic Anna/Ida, all abnegation and submission, whose world widens only slowly as she trails her pugnacious aunt. While out in that world, she discovers a young man interested in her and, in one lovely sequence, doffs her habit to glow with a newborn beauty. Ms. Kulesza is great as the tough cookie Wanda, able to doff scruples and men as she does what it takes to thrive in stagnant Polish society. This film is, in many ways, a very muted one, perfectly matching the reserve of the beatific Anna. The director, Pawel Pawlikowski, also gives it the flavor of the post-war period by shooting it in a crisp black-and-white and in a 4-to-3 image ratio. It evokes, probably consciously, the great Polish film resurgence of that period from directors like Andrzej Wajda, Andrzej Munk, and Roman Polanski. Pawlikowski also gives the film its own aesthetic by often placing his personages in the lower third of the frame, a device that can come off as either an affected and irritating tic or as an affecting artistic choice (this reviewer tends towards the later). Pawlikowski was born in Poland in 1957 and arrived in England with his parents as a teenager, and his earlier well-received features (“The Last Resort” and “My Summer of Love”) were made in Britain. This is his first picture set in his homeland, and he proves he has a great feel for the place.
Locke
Wanda (Agata Kulesza) and Ida/Anna Agata Trzebuchowska) in “Ida.” Courtesy of Music Box Films
“Red Wanda”) whose hard-charging, hard-living personality is the polar opposite from the demure, nearly wordless novice. Anna also learns from Wanda that she is Jewish--and that her given name was Ida. This revelation sets Anna, now Ida, on a journey with Wanda to uncover her roots. Together, the two search for the family’s past by investigating their last settlement in rural Poland. A neighboring Catholic family in the village of Ida’s birth holds the key to what transpired with her parents. As they come to learn her family’s fate, Ida has to choose between her birth identity and the religion that saved her from the Holocaust. Meanwhile, Wanda must face decisions she made during the War when she chose loyalty to the Communist Party over her family.
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Englishman Tom Hardy is a rising star in international cinema (his breakout role was in 2010’s “Inception”), principally as a rough-andready, even brutal, man of action. Though he has been a charismatic screen presence, nothing he had previously done compares to his acting prowess in this gripping film from British director Stephen Wright, author of outstanding screenplays for films such as
Tom Hardy, anxious at the wheel, as “Locke.” Photo courtesy A24 Films
“Dirty Pretty Things” and “Eastern Promises” (the film, in local theaters, is rated “R” for language, and runs a pulse-pounding 85 min.). “Locke” is a one-off movie, a one-man suspense drama where Hardy, as Ivan Locke, holds the screen in almost real time, viewed almost entirely at the wheel of his BMW as he rolls from a construction site upcountry to London on a personal mission. The film’s dialogue is made up wholly of his exchanges on his handsfree phone, where he communicates with family, bosses, work colleagues, and others (voice performances are from English actors such as Olivia Colman, Andrew Scott, Tom Holland, inter alia.). Locke is a construction manager in charge of a large cement pour for a new building, a task that he finds he cannot complete at the site and so must get his underling to supervise. If this major job is botched, he could be sacked, so he has to very carefully instruct the staffer. He is also supposed to be going home to be with his boys to watch a major soccer game, an appointment he must also break and somehow explain to his family. Further pressure comes from his involvement with an acquaintance entering a London hospital, the reason he is hurrying to the capital. Through all this, Locke must keep the lid on his emotions and temper, juggling the stream of voices demanding things of him until he’s on the verge of cracking. He tells himself to stay calm--in a soft Welsh lilt— as he barrels down mid-country highways, and he conjures up just what he can and can’t say to the various interlocutors who depend on him. The concatenation of voices he must endure builds up an excruciating suspense as the film progresses, one much more powerful that the crass tension generated by most Hollywood thrillers. The film also
avoids facile dramatics and eschews violence, though the pressure-cooker pace of the tale leads you to think it will explode somehow. Locke’s dilemmas are set in a believable, authentic context which makes them all the more convincing. I will not be the only critic who calls Hardy’s singular performance a “tour de force.” I would also presume to call “Locke” a “tour de face”: a film defined by one actor’s visage, an earnest, knit-browed face that reveals worlds.
Short Take: D-Day: Normandy 1944 Just in time for the 70th anniversary of the D-Day invasion (June 6, 1944) comes a new IMAX show (rated “G” and running 43 minutes) about the monumental landing. Now being shown in 3D on the IMAX screens of the Smithsonian’s Air and Space Museums (both on the Mall and at the Udvar-Hazy Center), the film offers a primer for families introducing children to this historic military watershed. Narrated by Tom Brokaw, the film offers a swift introduction to the War then focuses quickly on the preparations for and the movements of the invasion and its aftermath. It is done using a mix of re-created live action, black-and-white granular animation, CGI-generated war maneuvers, and, most importantly, animated overlook maps of the invasion and its progress. The narration is sound and sober, providing good background to novices—and reminding their parents what transpired. Hill resident Mike Canning has written on movies for the Hill Rag since 1993 and is a member of the Washington Area Film Critics Association. He is the author of “Hollywood on the Potomac: How the Movies View Washington, DC.” His reviews and writings on film can be found online at www. mikesflix.com. u
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{arts and dining / theatre}
Freud, Lewis and God Theater J Brings All Three to Life by Barbara Wells
Rick Foucheux as Sigmund Freud (left) and Todd Scofield as C.S. Lewis. Photo: Stan Barouh
I
n a city where people may frequently debate the politics of religion but rarely talk about faith itself, Freud’s Last Session at Theater J is a rare opportunity to spend a couple of hours observing a fierce, passionate and poignant discussion about the existence of God. But it’s not just any discussion: This joust features two of the last century’s intellectual giants, portrayed with acute sensitivity by the marvelous actors—Rick Foucheux and Todd Scofield—who embody them. In an unlikely but thoroughly believable encounter, Sigmund Freud, an unwavering practitioner of the scientific method, has arranged a meeting with C.S. Lewis, a writer whose life’s work is a fusion of faith and fantasy. Despite his advanced and often excruciating oral cancer, Freud wants to talk. The ensuing exchange, crafted by playwright
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Mark St. Germain, could easily exhaust an audience with its complex web of philosophy and analysis, were it not so skillfully blended with wit and revelations about the characters themselves. In the end, the play tells us as much about Freud, Lewis and humanity as it does about God. They meet in 1939 at Freud’s London home in Maresfield Gardens, Hampstead, where he settled after escaping the Nazi invasion of Austria the year before. Faithfully recreated by scenic designer Debra Booth, Freud’s sun-drenched study, overlooking a serene garden, is a haven bedecked in Oriental rugs carpeting the floors and draped over his infamous couch. Yet even here, the terror of impending war seeps in through news reports on the radio and the warning sirens of an air raid. It’s when the sirens scream, and Freud and Lewis scramble for their
gas masks, that we know despite their differences they have a common mission to comprehend the evil in the world they share. In fact, both men have suffered: Freud with the loss of a child and grandchild, the Nazi invasion, and endurance of his cancer, and Lewis with the death of his mother when he was just 10 years old, followed by the horrors of serving in the trenches during World War I. And for both of them, this trauma deepened their conviction that no God could tolerate the infliction of so much pain. That is, until one day, after years of discourse and reading among his literary circle at Oxford University called “The Inklings,” Lewis suddenly found he believed in God after all. “I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen,” he says. “Not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.” In stark contrast, Freud’s aversion to the concept of God seems rooted in his discomfort with anything that can’t be dissected and explained. In a telling metaphor, throughout the play Freud turns off the radio whenever classical music plays between news reports and speeches about the looming war. Eventually he tells Lewis why music disturbs him: Because he can’t figure out why it gives him pleasure. Lewis aptly notes that for someone who firmly denies God’s existence, Freud spends an inordinate amount of time writing and talking about the subject. His fascination is visible in the large collection of religious icons he’s amassed from all over the world—standing like a row of sentries on his desk as he and Lewis debate. It’s as if he’d hoped these embodiments of faith could provide some tangible clues about the gods they represent. Under the direction of Serge Seiden, these characters come alive in the performances of Foucheux and Scofield. As Freud, Foucheux is abrasive but warm, depressed but funny, carrying every bit of Freud’s 83 years in his hesitant, stooped gait. And when the plate affixed to the roof of his mouth becomes unbearably painful, you would swear he was really crying and bleeding as Scofield complies with Freud’s plea to pry it out of
Scan to visit DCanter’s website
his mouth. As Lewis, Scofield is as bright and hopeful as Freud is dark and discouraged. Yet his defense of faith seems anything but naïve; he stands toe to toe with Freud, building a measured case that makes the idea of an existence without God sound as preposterous as rising from the dead. It would be easy—and disastrous—for one of these characters to dominate the other, but in this production they are perfectly balanced in their wit, charm and gravitas. By age, stature and the intensity of his scathing criticisms, Freud would seem to have the upper hand, but Foucheux’s understated performance and Scofield’s assured presence leave no doubt the two are evenly matched. For most of the play, Freud ensconces himself behind the enormous desk that serves as a sort of fortress, protecting him as he analyzes his patients who recline on a couch on the other side. Lewis finds himself seated—uncomfortably—on the couch once or twice, but always only briefly before moving confidently about the room. In fact, it’s Freud who ends up lying on the couch, helped there by Lewis when he becomes overwhelmed by the pain in his mouth. By the play’s end, Lewis has departed, and the debate appears unresolved. But when the radio’s news of the war once again gives way to music, Freud—even just for a moment—allows himself to listen. Barbara Wells is a writer and editor for Reingold, a social marketing communications firm. She and her husband live on Capitol Hill. u
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his is a painter’s love affair with Washington, the city of real people and real things, not “Washington” the political center of the universe. You get to tag along. Martin Kotler’s vision of DC is his own: a clear, true interpretation—a little more cerebral, a little more magical. Each work is an inner sanctum of visual clues, his comments about “who we are and where we are.” There is no simple answer to the “who” and ‘where,” and that is what pulls you in. He explores each neighborhood and finds the overlooked treasures of the town: the rusty skeletons of raised platforms, a playful snowy East Capitol street on Capitol Hill, the sycamores along the C&O Canal, and row houses and iris gardens anywhere in the city. His recent show at the Hemphill Galleries highlighted the catenary, the visual circles and semi-circles and almost random geometric shapes created by the spider web of wires and cables suspended over railroad tracks. The result is a dancing pattern of living sky that gives his lineal compositions of construction sites and utilities an unexpected warmth and gentility. Martin Kotler conducts a tour of our town, but it is the painting itself that’s the voyage. He is in love with the art of making oil paint talk to tell the story of a place, a
by Jim Magner
time and a people…to capture not just appearances but identity. Each painting is infused with historical inferences to the masters of the past but stands alone in it’s own strength and individuality. He has degrees from the Maryland Institute of Fine Art and American University and has been painting DC since the late 70s. His life’s work is an evolving epic battle within the artist—the intellectual and emotional dedication to art and an unquenchable fire to see everything through those eyes. Martin Kotler is represented by Hemphill Galleries. www.hemphillfinearts.com.
Jim Magner’s Thoughts on Art You are familiar with the Washington of calendar photos: the Jefferson Memorial at cherry blossom time, the Washington Monument standing tall and proud amidst the heroic 4th of July fireworks, the Capitol dome under a rising moon, or as a grand adjunct to the National Christmas Tree. You know what I mean—bland and nonoffensive. Pretty pictures. Local artists—photographers and painters—often serve up the same fare, mostly to make some money. The gritty stuff doesn’t sell so well. But have you noticed that the pretty views are becoming more elevated to avoid the unpleasant re-
Martin Kotler on site. Photo: David Walsh
alities of ever more barricades and armed guards? Apparently no one wants to acknowledge that. A few years back, I did a series of studies of fortress Washington that remain unbought. Beyond the monuments, a living, breathing complex blend of cultures actually thrives here. Building styles, and other conventions of a city, come and go as populations shift and government spending ebbs and flows. Although many artists walk the streets to record the dynam-
artandthecity
Artist Portrait: Martin Kotler
Top: Martin Kotler, Looking North, Trestle Bridge Over the Potomac, 2012-2013, oil on linen, 20”x 34”. Images courtesy of the artist/HEMPHILL Left: Martin Kotler, Cantenary at K, Crooked Cross, 2011, oil on linen, 28”x24”
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Tory Cowles Abstract Expresstionist Student Show June 13-15 Lauren Chelec Cafritz, Eliot Feldman, Patsy Fleming, Michele Morgan, Barry Perlis, Albert Perry, Helen Power, Pauline Siple, Terry Sitz, Alicia Loudis Sommers, Kathryn Wiley Reception Saturday, 6/14, 4-6 p.m. at Yellow Barn Gallery, 7300 MacArthur Blvd, Glen Echo Park. Exhibit hours: Friday, 6/13 - 6-8 p.m.; Sat. 6/14 12-6 p.m.; Sunday 12-5 p.m.
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ic energy of the place, perhaps no one is more tuned in than Martin Kotler, who has lived and painted both the grand views of the city and its patchwork of neighborhoods for over 30 years. (See, Artist Profile) The truth is, it doesn’t matter where you make art as long as you are truly immersed in the emotional currents that were stirred so long ago in human history, and became supercharged through the centuries by great minds and visionaries. Those currents whip through the four quadrants of DC and are kept alive by the hundreds, thousands, who paint, sculpt, and photograph for the sheer love of it. So, it is continually disheartening that so many in the political mecca of “Official Washington” can name every assistant secretary, but can’t identify five dedicated artists.
At the Museums
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“Andrew Wyeth: Looking Out, Looking In” National Gallery of Art - West Bld. 7th and Constitution NW – Nov. 30
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Andrew Wyeth, 1917-2009, is one of the bestknown and loved painters of 20th century America. His works in tempura and watercol-
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or contain a quiet, lonely loveliness, and were often sentimental at a time when many, if not most, prominent artists and critics rejected, and often despised those qualities. This major exhibition focuses on Wyeth’s fascination with windows, which he described as beginning in the summer of 1947, and includes some 60 works on paper. As usual, the gallery’s curators provide insights regarding his craft as well as his vision. But if you wish to hide from the hustle of DC and just gaze at calm-inducing works of art, this is it.
Degas/Cassatt National Gallery of Art - West Bld. 7th and Constitution NW – Oct. 5 The other major show at the NGA is Degas/ Cassatt. Mary Cassatt is closely associated with Degas, with whom she painted and grew as an artist; she had a reciprocal influence on his work as well. That influence is not well understood, and is closely examined in this exhibit. It includes over 70 works in a variety of media. Again the curators provide “groundbreaking technical analysis” and much historic information, but just wandering through, looking at these great works is worth the visit.
At the Galleries “Urban Decay Five” The Fridge Gallery 516 8th St. SE, Rear Alley June 7 – 29 Recep: Sat., June 7, 6– 11 Urban Decay Five is a large group show with a five-hour opening reception that promises to be a very good time in this funky art place. It’s in the alley just off 8th St. on the Hill. Aaron Wilder is one of the artists. He is contributing a piece from his Amends series, which is intended to contribute to the overall dialogue. www.thefridge.com.
“Zenith Zoo” Zenith Gallery Presents 1111 Pennsylvania Ave., NW –Aug. 30 Zenith Zoo: Artistic Interpretations of our Planetary Partners is a fun show that has serious implications, in keeping with DC Week for the Animals. It runs through August and includes the interpretations of over ten Zenith artists. You will find almost every artistic medium, and subjects to laugh with, and some to simply admire. www.zenithgallery.com.
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Naomi Taitz Duffy Foundry Gallery 1314 18th St. NW June 4 - 28, Recep: Fri., June 6, 6 – 8 These are recent paintings by Naomi Taitz Duffy that employ shapes that recur in nature— from the movement of fish, to the patterns of falling leaves. She works with layers of color, intersecting spheres, and repetitive motifs that evolve into compelling patterns. www. foundrygallery.org. www.naomitaitzduffy.com. u
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the
LITERARY HILL
A Compendium of Readers, Writers, Books, & Events
by Karen Lyons
Hill Rag since 1993 and is a member of the Washington Area Film Critics Association. His talk will be on June 18 at 7 p.m. at the Northeast Library, 330 7th St NE, 202698-0058, northeastlibrary@dc.gov.
Still Dreaming Love him or hate him, Marion Barry has been a key player in DC for more than four decades. He was also the central character in “Dream City: Race, Power, and the Decline of Washington, D.C.,” the 1994 book by Harry S. Jaffe and Authors Stephen H. Grant and Mary Z. Gray share a moment at the Literary Hill BookFest. Photo: Bruce Guthrie
BookFest 2014 Thanks to all our participants, volunteers, and donors for another great Literary Hill BookFest. As one author noted afterwards, “It’s a unique event for a unique neighborhood.” Hear, hear! Special thanks to the leadership team of Carrol Kindel, Paul Marengo, Sharon Hanley, Abby Yochelson, and Ed McManus, who made it all happen, and to our sponsor, Capital Community News, Inc. See you all next May, when the BookFest will celebrate our fifth anniversary!
Hill Reading Series Debuts In a new venture for Capitol Hill, the DC Public Library presents The Literary Hill BookFest Reading Series. The brainstorm of the staff at the Northeast Neighborhood Library, the series will feature talks at the Northeast, Southeast, and Rosedale Libraries by authors whose books have appeared in this column. In proposing the new venture, Librarian Marcus Waide noted that many Northeast Library staff members are new to Capitol Hill and eager to meet and celebrate local authors. He also stated that the Capitol Hill libraries have great spaces for author talks, and wrote that the library “share(s) a desire to make our neighborhood a respected center for reading, learning, and community discussion.” The debut speaker will be the Hill Rag’s own Mike Canning, author of “Hollywood on the Potomac: How the Movies View Washington, D.C.” (2012). Mike has been reviewing movies for the
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Katy Kelly greets a young reader at the BookFest as author Tim Krepp looks on. Photo: Michael Phares
Tom Sherwood that blew the lid off local politics. Now the team of reporters is back with a 20th anniversary edition that brings the story up to date. “Since Dream City was published in 1994,” they write in a new foreword, “the city behind the monuments had transformed itself. From politics to society, demographics to development,
sports to culinary culture, the District of Columbia barely resembled the town we described twenty years ago. Except for one constant: Marion Barry was still in office…” In the original book, the authors painted a vivid political portrait of our capital city, from historical Congressional rule through the days of civil rights to the 1968 riots and DC’s reputation as “The Murder Capital.” Along the way, they exposed a shameful trail of politicians engaged in shady deals, drugs, sex, embezzlement, and nearcriminal negligence of the people they had been entrusted to serve. The new book’s extensive afterword covers Barry’s post-prison term as mayor, the Federal control board takeover of the city, the tenure of Anthony Williams, the financial boon, and the rise and fall of Adrian Fenty and Vincent Gray. The authors conclude with the recent primary election and David Catania’s challenge to Democratic candidate Muriel Bowser. So the saga continues, but the dream has not died. In fact, in addition to the heartening litany of positive changes that the city has seen in the past 20 years, the authors offer a small but telling edit on the cover of the new book: they’ve crossed out the word ‘Decline’ and written in ‘Revival?’ Harry Jaffe is an award-winning reporter and has been a national editor at The Washingtonian magazine since 1990. Tom Sherwood is a DC political reporter for NBC4 and has been honored as one of the Top 50 Journalists in Washington by Washingtonian magazine.
Treasure Island
It’s 1946 and a defeated Japanese general who has been run to ground in the Philippines makes one final gesture of defiance by stashing his looted fortune in a cave up in the hills. Or so the legend goes. Cut to 1985 and at least one guy who buys the story: Captain William Steele, A new 20th anniversary edition of “Dream an intelligence officer staCity” extends the story of DC politics from tioned at Clark Air Base, is de1994 to the present. termined to find the treasure. “Steele’s Treasure,” a new book by Nick Auclair, follows Will’s quest through the tunnels and bunkers carved into the mountains, as well as through the morass of US military machinations and the po-
POETIC HILL
A US intelligence officer in the Philippines in the 1980s hunts for lost WWII treasure—at his peril.
litical unrest that defined the Philippines in the 1980s. The author deftly ties together numerous plot threads in what is at once a rousing adventure and a thoughtful portrayal of the Philippines and its people. “Steele’s Treasure” rings true in every way—which is not surprising since author Nick Auclair has more than 20 years of experience as a US intelligence officer, five of those in the Philippines. This is his first book (it won an honorable mention in the Eric Hoffer Awards for Short Prose and Independent Books) and he plans to publish a second in the Steele treasure-hunting series later this year.
This Month on the Hill The Hill Center presents “Enduring Courage: Ace Pilot Eddie Rickenbacker and the Dawn of the Age of Speed,” a conversation with author John F. Ross and The Washington Post’s Dennis Drabelle, June 10, 7 p.m. www.hillcenterdc.org or 202-549-4172. Smithsonian Associates offers Books@ Noon with Rick Atkinson, author of “The Guns at Last Light: The War in Eastern Europe, 1944-1945,” June 18, noon; and three evening events: Louisa Lim, “The People’s Republic of Amnesia, Remembering the Legacy of Tianamen Square,” June 3, 6:45 p.m.; Bloomsday Celebration of James Joyce’s Dublin, June 16, 6:45 p.m., and Patricia Schul-
tz, “1000 Places to See Before You Die,” June 18, 6:45 p.m. www.smithsonianassociates.org. The Library of Congress presents a poetry reading by Joan Larkin, Kamilah Aisha Moore, D.A. Powell, and Dan Vera, June 3, noon; and book talks by graphic novelists Stephan Pastis and Jarrett J. Krosoczka, June 5, 10 a.m.; Larry Doyle, “In Bed with Wall Street: The Conspiracy Crippling Our Global Economy,” June 5, 11:30 a.m.; Sara Day, “Coded Letters, Concealed Love: The Larger Lives of Harriet Freeman and Edward Everett Hale,” June 10, noon; and Michael Waldman, “The Second Amendment, A Biography,” June 24, noon. www.loc.gov. Riverby Books and the Southeast Neighborhood Library host a new book club, beginning in June with “A Tale for the Time Being” by Ruth Ozeki, June 19, 6:30 p.m., SE Library, 403 7th St SE. www.riverbookshill@ gmail.com.
The Lyon’s Share Dear readers, I trust you all saw that article in the Washington Post’s Local Living section recently about arranging your books by color. I confess it was quite a revelation to me. Now I’ve got Dorothy Parker rubbing spines with Edith Wharton—although I sense that they’d really rather not—and whenever I want to consult my TCM Classic Movie Guide, all I have to do is look right there between “Mr. Timothy” and “War and Peace.” Et voila! My collection of Rex Stout’s Nero Wolfe books are a little hard to find, interspersed as they are among biographies, classical literature, and noir fiction, but what the heck. My shelves look fantastic—and isn’t that the point? I mean, who really wants to read all that stuff anyway? wAnd should I tire of admiring my new color-coordinated books, I can always follow the Post’s other decorating tip and arrange them all by size. u
Local poet Renata Bigham-Belt feels that she has been given the gift of understanding perfect love and she shares this gift with others through her poetry. “When we begin to realize the magnitude of perfect love,” she writes, “then our journeys through this life will complete the missing link in the chain.” The poem below is from her self-published book of verse, “Perfect Love is the Missing Link.”
IF WE WOULD If we would truly let LOVE abide: We would know that there is a presence, that permeates the universe, We would see that every soul is connected, it all begins at birth. We would understand why we were created, all as a part of one, We would understand where we are going, and where we have come from. We would enjoy the beauty of sunshine, and dance in the rain, We would feel one another’s hurts, and share in one another’s pain. We would cry along with the hurting, We would bear one another’s burdens. We would greet one another with a smile, and be careful when we frown, We would lift each other up, and not tear one another down. We would pray for one another always, because that’s the only way, We would help one another through pain and sorrow, as we live from day to day. We would understand that riches and wealth, is only a passing phase, We would realize that the awesome presence can never be replaced. We would understand our purpose, the mighty plan unfold, We would all join hands and run this race, the young and the old. We would understand that when this life is over, nothing will really end, We would only be transformed, to return to where it all began. Perfect Love Is The Answer!
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{arts and dining / wine guys}
Hot Weather and the Hot Wine-Rose by Lilia Coffin
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istorians generally agree that wine has been produced for almost 8000 years and as long as there has been wine, there has been rosé. Rosé is made in one of three ways. The finest rosés are produced from red grapes with limited skin contact with the juice. Red grapes are crushed and the skins removed after two or three days leaving a pink hue to the juice as fermentation continues. The skins contain the red pigment, tannins and a lot of the flavor of red wine. Rosés produced in this fashion yield a wine with the bright fruit flavors of red wine but not the color or body. Rosé is also produced by a technique known as Saignée. In this method, the winemakers “bleeds” off some pink juice from the fermenting red wine to impart more color and flavor into the remaining juice. The Saignée is than fermented separately. The third method is the blending of a little red wine into white. It is frowned upon by finer wine producers but is an accepted practice in Champagne. The best Champagne producers, however, use one of the other methods. Rosé has historically been a dry wine but that changed in the 60’s and 70’s with the popularity of the Portuguese rosés Lancers and Mateus and the beginnings of the White Zinfandel craze here in the States. These wines were produced to help sell the juice of slower moving red wine and generally had a residual sugar level around two and a half percent. This “blush” phenomenon made it difficult to sell the finer dry rosé wines from France because consumers thought all rosé was sweet. A resurgence of dry rosé began about a decade ago and now the beginning of summer coincides with the release time of the new vintage of rosé. A young rosé is perfect for a picnic in the park or a glass in your backyard. The red fruit flavors allow it to be served chilled and stand up well to chicken, salmon and tuna. Good rosé can be produced almost anywhere in the world, but the finest seem to come from warmer climates and from heat loving grape varieties like Grenache and Syrah. These regions include the Rhone Valley and Provence in France, much of Spain and warmer regions in California like Paso Robles.
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Perhaps the most famous rosé wine region is Tavel. Philip IV of France supposedly travelled through Tavel on one of his tours of the kingdom in the 13th century. He was reportedly offered a glass, which he emptied without getting off his horse and afterwards proclaimed Tavel the only good wine in the world. Located in the southern Rhone Valley of France, Tavel produces only rosé wines from Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah and Mourvedre. The wines are delicate salmon in color with excellent body and structure for rosé. Equally famous is the large region of Provence located in the south of France along the Mediterranean Sea. It is in this large AOC that three regions stand out for their very high quality rosé production. They are Côtes de Provence, Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence and Bandol. In these regions Carignane and Mourvedre are used along with Grenache and Syrah to produce the distinctive, full flavored rosé wines.
My Favorite Rosés Below are my current favorite rosés. These will all offer excellent drinking for this summer and beyond.
Best Value Malavieille Charmille Rosé 2012 ($10) An excellent value offering aromas of ripe melon, strawberry, and citrus that continues generously onto the palate leading to a crisp and dry finish. A good companion to lighter fare, seafood and charcuterie. La Bastide Blanche Cotes de Provence Cuvee TwoB Rosé 2012 ($20) Pale pink with purple highlights; intense, fruity, and floral with a rose aroma; fresh, aromatic and round with strawberry and lychee notes. The bright, crisp flavors are long and lingering. Chateau La Moutete Grande Reserve Provence Rosé 2012 ($20) Aromas of peach, melon, and citrus. Notes of dry strawberry, tart grapefruit, crisp lychee, with white pepper and racy minerals on the balanced silky finish.
Vicchiomaggio San Jacopo Rosato 2012 ($10) A 100% Sangiovese Rose with bright strawberry and red berry aromas, well balanced acidity and a lasting, bright, fresh finish. Drinking this delight will make you feel you are on a hilltop in Tuscany looking down on the ripening vineyards. Domaine Vaquer L’Ephémère Rose 2012 ($23) Aromas of Wild strawberries, raspberries, redcurrants, and fuji apple are mixed with notes of fresh herbs and hint of rose petal. Light, refreshing, and dry on the palate with a good burst of red fruit. Simply delicious! 30% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 30% Carignane. Lancyre Rose 2012 ($20) A vibrant style, with concentrated dried berry and melon flavors accented by dashes of pepper. Dried mango and pineapple notes emerge on the rich finish. u
Upcoming Wine Events RHONE RANGERS GRAND TASTING WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4, 5:30 - 9:00 p.m. You are invited to join us for an intimate evening tasting at The Long View Gallery for the opportunity to taste from more than 80 wines from top Rhone Rangers winery members. VIP TICKETS, 5:30-9 PM, includes a selection of appetizers and 3 1/2 hours of tasting, $90 Advance (no day of ticket sales). GENERAL ADMISSION TICKETS, 7-9 PM, includes 2 hours of tasting, $55 Advance, $65 At the Door (if available). Go to http://www.rhonerangers.org/calendar/ WashingtonDC.php for tickets.
Friday June 27th, 7:00 p.m. at Bistro Cacao Join owner/winemaker Rick Davis of Calstar Cellars for a seated five course meal at this exceptional Hill Restaurant. Rick’s Chardonnays and pinot Noirs from the Russian River Valley are truly exceptional wines. Call Schneider’s of Capitol Hill for menu and price (202-543-9300).
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in honor of the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop (CHAW) ALL PROCEEDS WILL GO IN DONATION TO CHAW
July 1, 2014 5:30 - LAST CALL | CASUAL DRESS
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{arts and dining / music}
P roject by Jean-Keith Fagon Thoughts Of A Jazz Lover Jazz can be enigmatic, an alchemy of mysterious sounds and moods that is spontaneous and yet deliberate in its free flowing creativity. The music can be complex, but good jazz feels as simple as first love— it goes straight to the heart and rests there, beating gently. At times, the music can be so life-like that it speaks to you with honesty and love. One still gets a keen sense of understanding of the complexity of the music. There is such a high note of haughtiness, perhaps a sort of natural aristocracy from a kind of inbred austerity about jazz that puts it in a class by itself, elevating one to a higher ground of one’s consciousness. It almost borders on elitism, and yet jazz strikes one as a beautiful music for everyone. And it is, especially for those of us who not only enjoy but truly love the music. True, most good jazz musicians more than likely think of jazz as the arbiter of modern music. And on a good day, I think they are correct. You can walk in your door after a hard day’s work and a harrowing Metro ride, put on Sarah Vaughn and your world is transformed. Your mind clears, your body relaxes and suddenly life is pretty good. There’s no drug in the world that can do that. Jazz is beautiful music.
Last Dance ••• Keith Jarrett and Charlie Haden, ECM Pianist Keith Jarrett and bassist Charlie Haden are in fine form on their latest album, fittingly titled the Last Dance. The beautiful and elegant pitch, resolute and absolute, of Mr. Jarrett on the piano is undoubtedly one of the most celebrated and distinctive styles of piano playing. And along with Mr. Haden’s lyrical signature bass lines there is much pleasure to be had in listening to this magical dance of immense depth. Showcas-
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ing some of best and most memorable classics, Last Dance is a pas de deux of two great musicians enjoying their life’s achievements, peacefully in their own perfect world. Enjoy such gems like “My Old Flame,” “My Ship,” “Everything Happens To Me,” “Where Can I Go Without You,” “Every Time We Say Goodbye,” and “Goodbye.” Of course there are always those moments when chivalry and unbridled freedom let loose for grandstanding on Thelonious Monk’s “Round Midnight” and Bud Powell’s spirited “Dance Of The Infidels.”
Living My Dream ••• Jonathan Butler, Artistry Music Guitarist Jonathan Butler who was born and raised in apartheid South Africa has always used his music to tell the story of his life. Writing and producing gold-selling albums and international hit singles, the two-time Grammynominee’s entire life has unfolded with memorable and heartwarming songs of lost families, enduring loves, broken dreams, and the revelation of religious hope and faith for a better life to come. Mr. Butler’s latest album is about celebrating one’s life as the strongest antidote in overcoming most of life’s obstacles. Based on material from a diverse collection that spans R&B, jazz, pop and gospel, Living My Dream provides an honest and revealing soulful songbook probing the artist’s passions: God, family and his homeland. Bassist-songwriter-producer Marcus Miller co-wrote “Let There Be Light” with Mr. Butler and plays on that track as well as on “Be Still,” which Mr. Butler wrote with George Duke during a five hour visit to the late legend’s wine cellar. Saxophonist Elan Trotman also appears on “Let There Be Light.
According to Mr. Butler the essence of Living My Dream “is the story of my life and the newness of discovery. These really are the best years of my life.” He wrote or co-wrote ten songs which is a balanced blend of contemporary jazz instrumentals and R&B vocal tunes. One of the best songs, “African Breeze,” is a reboot of an instrumental that he wrote 30 years ago for The Jewel of the Nile motion picture soundtrack. It is a brisk, energetic African-hued dance on which Mr. Butler plucks the festive melody on nylon string guitar. Other highlights include “Sweet Serenade” and “A Prayer.”
The Passion Of Color ••• Rob Garcia 4, BJU Records Three noteworthy performances from this album herald summer’s passion with “Purple Blush,” “The Garden’s Poet,” and “Little Wing.” Performers include Noah Preminger (sax), Dan Tepper (piano), Joe Martin (bass), and Rob Garcia (drums).
44:33 ••• Ark Ovrutski, Zoho Music Jazz lovers should find some satisfaction listening to “Milestones,” followed by a flash of comfort with “Baby’s Vibe” from musicians Michael Dease (trombone), Michael Thomas (saxs), David Berkman (piano), Benito Gonzalez (electric piano), Ulyssess Owens (drums), and Ark Ovrutski (double bass).
Twelve ••• Eli Degibri, Plus Loin Music Autumn is a lovely time of the year, but so is summer, especially for saxophonist Eli Degibri who puts a smoldering brush fire to “Autumn In New
York,” which in this case means summer in New York City. This city with its never-ending days and nights coupled with its insatiable passion for its lifestyles is best served here with Mr. Degibri’s serenading “New Waltz,” “Old Seven,” and the inimitable voice of Shlomo Ydov on “Liora Mi Amor.” Featured performers include Gadi Lehavi (piano), Barak Mori (bass), and Ofri Nehemya (drums).
Tell You Something ••• Sam Rucker Saxophonist Sam Rucker’s latest endeavor, Tell You Something, may not be your typical jazz album, but it is a gritty urban set emboldened by the musician’s organic and fiery improvisational horn work. The album is sandwiched by two versions of the title track, the first being entirely instrumental. Enlightened by a celestial vocal hook, the second take of “Tell You Something” is given the freedom to be an extended jazz jam nearly nine minutes long with Mr. Rucker bellowing through his tenor sax over a staccato beat. Two other highlights include a blistering and riveting “Brighter Day,” followed by the fun-loving “Love’s Melody” oozing slivers of sensuality along with the sentimentality of romance. Performing with Mr. Rucker are contemporary jazz veterans Norman Connors, Bobby Lyle, Tom Browne, and Alyson Williams, along with Euge Groove who mixed and mastered the album. All CDs and DVDS reviewed in this article are heard through Bowers & Wilkens Nautilus 801 speakers and ASW 4000 subwoofer, and Rotel Preamp 1070, amplifier 1092 and CD player 1072. B&W speakers are now available at Magnolia, Best Buys (703.518.7951) and IQ Home Entertainment (703.218.9855). CDs are available for purchase through amazon.com For more information about this column, please email your questions to fagon@hillrag.com. u
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{health & fitness} About Those Fat Cats in Washington by Dr. Heather McCurdy
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ou know who I am talking about. They use their influence to increase their gain. People willingly indulge their needs and facilitate their advancement. Some beg and pester until their demands are met. A few will steal. I’m talking about Mr. Tiger, Mr. Leo, Ms. Mittens, and Ms. Sophie, just a few of the many overweight and obese cats on Capitol Hill. They are cute. They waddle and sit in hilarious postures. Unfortunately, as adorable Butterball ages he or she is at risk for developing a life-threatening disease. Just like overweight adults, cats develop insulin-resistant type 2 diabetes. Your low-maintenance fat cat, your “easy keeper” (as long as you keep the food dish full!), suddenly requires twice daily insulin injections, frequent trips to the veterinarian, and close monitoring. Or worse, Butterball requires a week-long, multi-thousand-dollar stay in a veterinary intensive care unit recovering from diabetic ketoacidosis, a life-threatening complication. It’s usually not a good sign when I see an overweight, middle-aged cat coming in for evaluation of sudden weight loss (Gee, the diet they’ve been on for three years is suddenly successful!), as well as polyuria (increased urination) and polydipsia (increased thirst). These are signs of diabetes, and I know I am about to change this owner’s life. Another complication of obesity is called hepatic lipidosis, or fatty liver disease. This can
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be initiated by anything, such as illness or anxiety, that causes an overweight cat to lose weight quickly. I once saw a cat develop fatty liver because her owner had changed her to a new food that the cat did not like. The kitty would not eat it, but her owner figured if she got hungry enough she would start. Unfortunately the cat went into liver failure instead. If a cat has no calories coming in, its body starts breaking down body fat. The fat is processed into energy by the liver. Fat cats have a lot of body fat, more than their bodies evolutionarily planned for. The liver cannot process all of it, so instead it stores the fat in the liver cells. As the cells fill up with fat, they stop functioning and the cat goes into liver failure. If the underlying cause of the inappetence can be addressed, we may be able to nurse the kitty back to health, but sometimes they require weeks of being fed through a feeding tube. This is expensive, time-consuming, and not always successful. Obesity leads to a lower quality of life. Cats are fastidious groomers. But if they are too fat to reach around and clean their backs and rear they will become greasy and soiled. They develop matted fur and dandruff. They will also become less playful and may develop difficulty jumping. Almost without fail, obese cats will develop arthritis. It is hard to keep an arthritic cat comfortable. The use of non-steroidal antiinflammatories in cats is limited by their poor ability to metabolize them. Whether you are trying to maintain or decrease your cat’s weight, the first thing you need to do is measure out the food. The average daily caloric intake for a healthy, active, spayed or neutered 10-pound cat is around 250 calories. Foods vary widely in their caloric densities. A quick scan of the caloric content of the 5.5-ounce cans of cat food I have in my cupboard range from 180 to 218 kcal per can. One bag of dry food I have lists its caloric content as 478 kcal/cup. Another brand I have contains 328 kcal/cup. With all of that variability it is important to pay attention to what you feed your cat. Once you know how much your cat eats in a day, it is easy to adjust the quantity. I know, you have two, three, four, five cats and there is NO
WAY you can ever separate them to feed them in your efficiency apartment, and the big one always eats the little one’s food and they never finish their food in one sitting. Or they wake you up at four in the morning, or bite your ankles, or attack the dog when you restrict their food. Yes, I know it’s hard. So is planning your life so that you can be home at the same time every single day for Butterball’s insulin injections. There are many strategies for limiting your cat’s intake. For those early morning dry-food eaters try an automatic feeder that allows you to measure out the food. Usually the cat will start to bug the feeder at four in the morning instead of you. Make feeding times last longer by using a feeding ball. These fun devices have small holes that allow kibble to fall out as your cat bats it around the house. For multiple cat feedings place the bowls far apart. If you have one cat that can jump and one that can’t, feed one up on a table or shelf. Feed one of your cats in the bathroom. Switch your cats entirely to canned food so that they finish all in one sitting. Try feeding multiple small meals instead of one or two. Of course, be sure and consult your veterinarian before embarking your cat on a dramatic weight loss plan to make sure kitty loses in a safe, regulated manner. Let’s take control of these Washington fat cats once and for all! Dr. Heather McCurdy is a graduate of the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine. She works at AtlasVet in Capitol Hill, located at 1326 H St. NE, and lives with her husband, two daughters, and assorted animals in the Northeast neighborhood of Brookland. u
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{health and fitness}
Batala Washington
Empowering Women and Sharing Brazilian Culture through Samba-Reggae Rhythms
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article by Antonia Sohns, photo by Batala Washington
ou can hear the drums from a mile away. The pulse of the surdo, heavy beats, the heart of the samba band; the dobra, carrying the melody; the repique adding snappy sounds alongside the Snare. The beats draw people in and keep crowds entranced. That’s how Cheryl Shapiro Low of Capitol Hill first saw the Batalettes of Batala Washington, an Afro-Brazilian, samba reggae band of DC, during a 4th of July Parade down Barracks Row. Cheryl left the parade that day with her husband and kids wondering who those women drummers were and how people get involved. It wasn’t until the following May when her husband planned a surprise Mother’s Day trip to Batala’s weekly practice, then in Farragut Square, that she became set on becoming a Batalette. Founded in 2007, Batala Washington is made up of 80 women from all professions and parts of the city. The group seeks to spread Brazilian culture and empower women through the power of music and drumming.
Batala Washington performs in the U Street Funk Parade on May 3, 2014
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Cheryl has drummed with the group for about five years now, and it has been a big learning experience, a mental and physical outlet, and a source of community. It has taken her on many unexpected adventures. When I asked her what her favorite performance was, she replied, “that’s easy! When we played with the Rolling Stones!” In December 2012, Cheryl and Batalettes from NYC and DC traveled to NYC to learn new music and choreography for the Rolling Stones’ opening song at the Barclays Center. “During the sound check and run through of the choreography, we were in the empty arena, when Mick Jagger came out to say hi, and see how we were doing,” said Cheryl. “The energy of the event was amazing.” While the Batalettes aren’t planning on opening for the Rolling Stones again anytime soon, they performed at the Women’s Nike Half Marathon on April 27, the DC Funk Parade on May 3, and the Afro-Bahian Cultural Festival on June 1. This June, they will also host El Encontro – Portuguese for “the meeting” – that will bring together the
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THE 2014 CAPITOL HILL HOUSE AND GARDEN TO
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e are deeply grateful to all those who supported the 57th Annual House and Garden Tour, including the home and garden owners, the House Captains, the advertisers, those who contributed financially, the eight businesses serving as ticket outlets and, particularly, the Tour staff. All of these supporters may be found in the 2014 House Tour brochure which is, along with the first 56 brochures, on the CHRS web site at CHRS.ORG. We extend a heartfelt Thanks to those who served as docents during the Tour, the ticket sellers at Eastern Market and those who purchased tickets for the Tour. We also thank Bill Sales and Todd DeGarmo for permitting us to use their garden as an exit pathway from one of the homes and the family of Dr. Robert L. Lester who were Silver Contributors but were not listed in the brochure. Personally, I am most grateful for those who provided “heavy lifting” during Tour weekend, including the Hardiman family (Mike, May, Maan and Dahlia), Ronica (Ronnie) Lu, Patrick Crowley, Gloria Junge and Susan Gwilliams. Information about former residents of the Tour homes was developed by Bill Peterson and is available on the web at: https://www.evernote.com/pub/wsp/housetour2014 [Click on “view notebook” without joining Evernote, place the cursor on a house address and right click]
Again, our sincere Thanks to all you for your support and we hope to see everyone on the 58th Tour in 2015. Paul Cromwell, Chair
57th Annual Capitol Hill House and Garden Tour
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202-543-5290 29 global Batala bands. “We are honored to be hosting El Encontro this year,” said the music director, Alison Rodden. It is the first time it has been hosted in the United States. Each year, an Encontro is hosted in a different location. Over 300 percussionists come together, share local culture, convene workshops, and learn new material from Batala’s founder, Giba Gonçalves. Rodden said, “Although there are many language barriers, the music is taught through playback and hand signs, so musicians can teach each other new beats – and ultimately, the drum and rhythm are a common language between all of us.” Brandi Stevenson, the Vice President of the Board of Directors for Batala Washington said, “This year, El Encontro will be a four day cultural event, full of workshops, activities and performances.” Batalettes will play guerilla performances accompanied by Capoeira dancing throughout the city, participate in the DC Capital Pride Parade, and Discover Strathmore – Sounds of Brazil, and share DC culture through Batala. With hundreds of percussionists in the District from June 4 through 8, there’s no telling where they will turn up, whether at the Drum Circle in Meridian Hill Park, or on a street corner near you. In the meantime listen for the beat and follow the music, or catch them at their Saturday practices held in Hancock Park near L’Enfant Plaza Metro Station from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Contact Batala Washington: drums@batalawashington.com; Website: www.batalawashington. com u
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{health and fitness}
Forget about the Tea Party – It’s all about the ‘Bee’ Party
Urban Beekeeping Emerges as a Popular Hobby Among Hill Residents
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am zipping along in a cab on my way to interview Bryce Rowland, Hill resident, real estate agent, and avid beekeeper. I call to let him know I am on my way, and in a hurried voice he makes a request: Is there any chance I can turn down the alley, turn left, find the white garage door cracked half open, and yell to let him know I have arrived? Because his bees may be swarming, and he needs to be in the backyard suited up now to catch them. Oh boy, here we go! Welcome to the exciting and unusual life of an urban beekeeper. We non-apiculturists (“apis” is Latin for bee) may only associate bees with bad childhood memories of stings at summer camp and the occasional nuisance bee that annoyingly buzzes around our face as we pick up the morning paper. Howev-
by Meghan Markey er, honeybees are rarely aggressive unless provoked, and for the most part are quite calm. They also serve a vital position in the environment as pollinators, essential to a robust food supply. Wary about the aforementioned swarm, I wander through the alley and find Rowland’s garage door. Ducking through the door I find Rowland and his fellow beekeeping partner Greg Megginson all suited up, contemplating the loose gathering of bees languidly circling around their hive. Unlike the frenzied mob I was expecting, the scene is oddly calm, almost hypnotic, whispers of smoke mingling with the bees. Bees communicate through pheromones, and the smoke interrupts those pheromone signals. It’s fascinating. Rowland and Megginson have
A beekeeper family: Karl Moeller and his son, Aksel, next to their hive.
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Beekeepers tending the hive on a Capitol Hill rooftop
been raising bees for over eight years, both on their rooftops in DC and on a 40acre farm in the Shenandoah Valley. Beekeeping is becoming a popular hobby, and many DC residents are raising their own hives right here in the city. It could not have come at a better time, as the honeybee populations have suffered immensely over the past few years. Protracted winters, pesticides, pathogens, and climate change have contributed to the honeybee’s weakened numbers. The phenomenon of worker bees in a hive dying off has an ominous name: colony collapse disorder. When asked if they became beekeepers out of concern for the bee populations, Rowland says, “I know a lot of people do it because they are worried about the bees. That’s not why we do it. We do it because it’s … it’s just cool!” Megginson says they began beekeeping, at least in part, because they were worried about the bees (but also because it’s cool, of course). Rowland concedes, “It used to be an old-folks’ hobby. When we began beekeeping we were some of the youngest people doing it. Now a lot of young people are doing it because they are more environmentally aware.” He’s not kidding about the younger generations. Earlier in the week I met Aksel Moeller, age 6. His dad, Karl Moeller, keeps two hives atop a crypt at Congressional Cemetery (a brilliant location). Karl grew up in rural Massachusetts, where his father kept bees, making young Aksel a third-generation beekeeper. Aksel, wearing an adorable, pint-sized bee suit, offers me some sage advice: “Just remember one thing. Don’t smack the bees. They really don’t like that.”
The elder Moeller has come to replace some of the empty frames in his hives with ones with honey in them for his bees to feed from. As I assist, gingerly removing frames, Moeller explains some of the mysteries of bee biology and social order. For instance, did you know that bees use the sun to triangulate the location of the hive? And that if multiple queens are present they will fight to the death in an insect battle royale? In the winter the bees will gather in a ball around the queen to keep her warm, constantly rotating the bees on the inner and outside parts of the sphere so that the greatest amount survive the cold temperatures. And don’t get me started on the male drones. “Male bees do next to nothing,” Moeller jokes. “They are born, they don’t work, they eat and leave the hive with the sole purpose of mating, and then they die. Kind of like humans.” Bee behavior is a complicated and enthralling subject, to say the least. Like Moeller, beekeeping has been a family endeavor from the start for Hill resident Todd Cymrot. Always interested in insects, his wife got him a starter kit and beekeeping classes as a gift a few years ago, and now, his
Bryce Rowland uses a smoker (the contraption atop this hive) to soothe his hive. RIGHT: Karl Moeller’s hive sits atop a crypt at Congressional Cemetery.
young daughters are eager to help out with the hives. Until recently Cymrot kept his hive behind his father’s store, Riverby Books, but he’s moved it to the family farm in Virginia due to lack of space. “I don’t know how much my little hive has been doing for the local bee population, but it has been a great learning experience for my girls, a totally absorbing hobby for me, and a great source of honey,” he writes via email. Ah, the honey. What is done with it? The lifespan of a bee represents about 1/16 of a teaspoon of honey. Large hives at this time of year can have 50,000 to 60,000 bees – that’s a lot of honey over the season. Beyond personal use in the kitchen, a jar of local honey makes a fantastic gift. Moeller and Rowland sometimes bring jars to the office and probably make a lot of friends in the process. Rowland is toying with making lip balms and body butters. Honey has another social benefit. There is always a concern that neighbors won’t be thrilled to be nearby a honeybee hive. But the power of this
inarguably best perk of beekeeping– organic, homemade honey – is great. “You give everyone honey and everyone is happy,” says Rowland. Honey is indicative of the make-up of nearby plants. Honey from hives in Capitol Hill may be different than honey from hives kept in Columbia Heights, just as soil profiles may influence wine. And as in wine, the flavor profiles can be very nuanced and layered. In his backyard Rowland appears with a jar of honey made from the hives in Virginia. One taste of this deep amber, viscous stuff and store-bought honey will be ruined for you for life. Its buttery taste is made of tulip, poplar, wildflowers, blackberry, and raspberry plants. Honey made from hives in DC reflects the linden trees that dot Massachusetts Avenue, resulting in a honey that is floral, light, with an unexpected minty finish. Before everyone looks to see how much space they have on their roof and Googles “urban beekeeping equipment,” there are some challenges to be aware of. An expensive and time-consuming endeavor, beekeeping takes a lot of work and dedication. Hives need regular maintenance, but if you agitate the hives too much or are not wearing protective gear you could end up getting stung. Megginson recalls an incident a few years back where he was stung on his face. “He looked like Popeye with one eye shut,” chuckles Rowland. Megginson explains that “I looked like Fat Albert … but we were messing with the hives.” Plus, he adds, most people confuse honeybees with ultra-aggressive insects like yellow-jackets and wasps, whereas honeybees are very calm when left undisturbed. However, the odd bee stings aside, it’s clear that the pair cares deeply for their buzzy charges, like anyone would for their dog or otherwise cuddlier pet, and it takes just as much commitment for the hive to be successful. When it is, the benefits are enormous, from helping local pollination, to having the coolest family hobby, to seeing the spoils of all that hard work come in the form of gallons of delicious, highquality local honey. I should know. I left Rowland and Megginson to tend to their hives, clutching the deep golden jar of glistening honey. And not to be a buzzkill, but I’m not sharing! If interested in beekeeping you can find introductory classes in the DC metro area. DC Beekeepers Alliance, a community forum and resource organization, holds classes throughout the area and is a great resource for all things beekeeping. Reach them through their website at www.dcbeekeepers.org and via email at dcbees@dcbeekeepers.org. u Moeller’s children Malin and Aksel help prepare the hives.
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A removable directory to assist parents on the decision making process
Don’t Miss It! Our summer Education Supplement will feature interesting articles on public, private and charter schools as well as extracurricular activities, resources and programs.
Publication Date - Hill Rag: August 2 | MidCity DC & East of the River: August 9
We are the Metro area’s leading resource for education!
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{kids & family} N O T E B O O K
by Kathleen Donner
Young Artists Exhibition at the Phillips The 2013–2014 Art Links to Learning: Museum-in-Residence program culminates in a Young Artists Exhibition showcasing student art from Phillips Collection partner school Tyler Elementary School, preschool through 5th grade. Each collaborative art project relates to themes explored at the museum and in the classroom. On exhibition, June 6-July 11. Phillips Collection, 1600 21st St. NW. 202-387-2151. phillipscollection.org
Shake Up Your Saturdays: Shakespeare’s the Thing at the Folger On Saturday, June 7, 10-11 a.m., explore how Shakespeare created his plays and how they continue to capture our imagination 400 years later. Recommended for ages 6-12. Free, but reserve your spot. Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 E. Capitol St. SE. 202544-7077. folger.edu
Marine Corps Animals Family Day On June 14, noon-3 p.m., bring your kids to learn about the contributions animals have Piece by Ms. Walker’s 2nd Grade Class made to the Marine Corps, and help them make and take their own animal craft. Free life of recklessness, with nothing they won’t do and admission, free parking. National Museum of the nothing they won’t try, to a destined life of purpose. Marine Corps, 18900 Jefferson Davis Highway, “ Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters: An African Tale” Triangle, VA. usmcmuseum.org (Sunday, June 29, 1 p.m.) is a children’s stage play that teaches lessons about character, positive valDC Black Theater Festival Kids’ ues and principles and compassion, based in the Performances southeast African country of Zimbabwe. Victoria “My Little World”, Friday - June 27, 10 a.m. and Falls, the Zambezi River, and Mt. Nyangani are 1 p.m.; and Saturday, June 28, 11 a.m. My Little the backdrops for this tale of recognizing beauty on World: A Day In PreSchool “LIVE” is a vibrant the inside as well as the outside. “Seven Spools of theatre production, full of cultural music that Tread” (Sunday, June 29, 4 p.m.) is an African folkpromotes 60-minutes of healthy physical activitale about the origin of the kente cloth. It weaves ty, while engaging children in interactive lessons together the seven principles of Kwanzaa using the that teach movement techniques and healthy livfate of seven brothers and their looming inheriing principles. “Young Wild and Out of Control” tance. These performances are at THEARC, 1901 (Saturday, June 28, 5 p.m.) is the urban teen stage Mississippi Ave. SE. play about a group of teen’s transformation from a
“Why Can’t We Be Friends”, Saturday, June 21, 2 p.m. This play examines the mental and emotional affects that bullying has on children. Ricky, who is a nice, loving, and very friendly kid, is tormented and bullied for being different and for not becoming a part of the “cool kid” group. This performance is at the Sitar Arts Center, 1700 Kalorama Rd. NW. Tickets for all plays are $15 (plus $2.97 service fee) for all children’s performances. Order them at dcblacktheatrefestival.com.
Registration Open for Marine Corps Marathon Healthy Kids’ Fun Run The Marine Corps Marathon Healthy Kids Fun Run will be held on Saturday, Oct. 25, in the Pen-
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tagon north parking lot. Nearly 3,600 children ages 5-12 will participate in the one-mile justfor-fun event. All participants receive a T-shirt, medal and snacks at the finish line. The Kids Run hosts six separate starting times. An individual young runner’s designated wave is indicated on the official participant bib as noted by color, start time and bib number. Register at marinemarathon.com. Kids of all ages will love meeting the amazing menagerie of mascots at the Healthy Kids Fun Run. Miles and Molly welcome: Sammy the Sea Otter from Navy Federal, Lift Off from Sodexo, the GECIO Gecko, Jack the Bulldog from Georgetown University, J. Slice and the National Watermelon Queens from the National Watermelon Promotion board, Talon from DC United, Jukebox from Silver Diner, and Archie the Eagle from Quantico Eagle Eyes.
Morning Glory Stories (for Babies and Toddlers) at Rosedale Library Mondays at 10 a.m., rise and shine and them for morning glory stories! Come enjoy books, songs, movement, rhymes and fingerplays. This story time program is for children under age 4 and their caregivers. Groups of 10 or more, call 202727-5012 to schedule a special story time. Rosedale Neighborhood Library, 1701 Gales St. NE. 202-727-5012. dclibrary.org/rosedale
Kids’ Music: Rainbow Rock Band at Ebenezers Get ready for all the excitement and fun that you get at a Kate Moran Band show, shrunk down to size for your little dudes! The Rainbow Lady (Kate Moran), Princess Fiddlesticks (Lynn Rovelli), Captain Toe Tappin (Kevin de Souza), and Guitarmony Gus (Derek Evry) will entertain your little ones with a combination of classic and original children’s tunes. This duo or trio will keep you bopping in your socks until you just can’t rock anymore! Always on hand, inside the box of fun, tambourines, shakers and more for your little one to join in the fun, and if they are feeling like completing their rock star appearance, how about a nice little temporary Rainbow tattoo, from none other than Pattycake Patty (Patty Moran) or Miss Rockin Rox Anna (Anna Go-
ist). $6 in advance and $8 at the door for everyone 1 yr & older. Ebenezers Coffeehouse, 201 F St. NE. 202-558-6900. ebenezerscoffeehouse.com
Optimizing Mind Body Health in Pregnancy Stress and anxiety can be detrimental to pregnancy. On Sunday, June 29, 2-4 p.m., at the Hill Center, join in a two hour small group seminar to explore how you can optimize mind body health and wellness in pregnancy during the first and second trimester. Topics covered will be tailored to the group’s interest but will include information on the mind body connection, resources to learn to minimize exposure to toxins, optimal nutrition in pregnancy, mind body hormone balance, guided meditation for learning relaxation techniques, coping with fear and anxiety, and how you can communicate with your baby through hormones. The format will be an interactive group setting to facilitate open exploration and community building. This seminar is led by Dr. Regina Zopf who is a mother, a board-certified Obstetrician-Gynecologist, and board certified Integrative and Holistic physician living in Capitol Hill. She seeks to share her knowledge as a physician and women’s herbal educator to optimize mind body wellness for women. $60. email reginazopfmd@gmail.com for questions and to register. reginazopfmd.com
Kids Free Summer Fun Deal at Newseum The Newseum offers everything from the Berlin Wall and Pulitzer Prize-winning photos to interactive games. And this summer, July 1 through Labor Day, the Newseum waives admission for visitors age 18 and younger. Up to four kids visit for free with each paid adult or senior admission, or Press Pass membership. Whether you have just a few hours or want to spend all day, you’ll find something for everyone in the Newseum’s 15 theaters and 15 galleries. Don’t miss “Anchorman: The Exhibit,” on display through Aug. 31, featuring props from the hit movies and a look at real 1970s news teams. Also see “One Nation with News for All,” a new exhibit that tells the dramatic story of how immigrants and minorities used the power of the press to fight for their rights and shape the American experience. Remember to save your admission ticket
and come back the next day for free! Newseum, 555 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. newseum.org
Fed Up! with Susan Okie, M.D. at SW Library On Monday, June 16, 7:30 p.m., you are invited to attend this presentation about childhood obesity featuring medical writer and physician Susan Okie. Southwest Neighborhood Library, 900 Wesley Pl. SW. 202-7244752. dclibrary.org/southwest
Mr. Gabe at CHAW “Mr. Gabe” is doing a solo show at the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop on Saturday, June 14, at 10:30 am. This is a 45-minute, interactive concert for families with small children, and will take place in CHAW’s Black Box Theater. $6 per person suggested donation. chaw.org
Imagination Bethesda Celebrates Children and the Arts The 20th annual Imagination Bethesda, a children’s street festival celebrating children and the arts, is scheduled for Saturday, June 7, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Musical performances and professional children’s entertainers will light up the stage, while hands-on art & craft activities will line the streets along Auburn and Norfolk Aves. in downtown Bethesda. The festival will host 25 local businesses and arts organizations that will provide a variety of hands-on art and craft activities to entertain and energize the 12-and-under crowd. Additionally, the festival will feature face painters, balloonists, a stilt-walker, free giveaways and more. For more information, visit bethesda.org.
President’s Park Celebrates Opening of TRACK Trail On Apr.26, The National Park Ser-
vice and Kids in Parks program celebrated the grand opening of a new TRACK trail at President’s Park. The TRACK Trail program encourages youth to get outside and explore President’s Park. A booklet helps kids and their families go on a “scavenger hunt,” discover the treasures within the park and then log their hike to earn free prizes. Visit the Ellipse Visitor Pavilion near the intersection of 15th and E Sts. NW. For more information on Kids in Parks and TRACK Trails, visit kidsinparks.com/trails.
Jazz Family Day and Performance by the Jazz Academy of Music at the National Archives On Saturday, June 7, noon–2 p.m., get ready to get in the groove with the Jazz Academy of Music! Bring your family to enjoy an afternoon of jazz including a performance by an ensemble from the academy. Learn what jazz has to do with the National Archives, meet the youth musicians, visit an instrument petting zoo, and try other hands-on activities. The noon performance in the McGowan Theater is followed by activities in the Learning Center. Attendees should use the Special Events entrance on Constitution Ave. at 7th St. NW. 202357-5000. archives.gov
“A Book That Shaped Me” Summer Essay Contest The Library of Congress, in conjunction with public libraries in the MidAtlantic region, has launched its annual essay contest encouraging rising 5th and 6th-grade students to reflect on books that have made a personal impact on their lives. The “A Book That Shaped Me” Summer Writing Contest is administered as part of summer reading programs at participating public libraries in Washington, DC, Maryland, Virginia, Dela-
2014 Summer Camp Casting Call Budding Scientists, Picasso Protégés, Environmental Enthusiasts, Curious Cooks and Crafters • Ages 30 months to 6 years old • June 23 – August 22 • Monday-Friday, 8:30am – 3:00pm • $300 per one-week session • After camp care, 3:00pm – 6:00pm (additional fee) Explore the World with Us Energetic young explorers will experience the culture and lifestyle of South America, Northern Africa, and Northern Europe through: · Creative Cooking & Crafting · Hands–on Science Experiments · Music and Movement · Outdoor Exploration
Arlington Campus 1601 S. 13th Rd Arlington, VA 22204
Now Enrolling for the 2014-2015 School Year Schedule an observation to see our certified teachers and child-centered approach to kindergarten readiness in action!
Math | Science | Language Character Development
Old Towne Alexandria Campus 688 N St. Asaph Street Alexandria, VA 22314
Capitol Hill Campus 1325 Maryland Ave NE Washington, DC 20002
www.nestars.net • 703.945.0408 • northeaststarsmontessori.nes@gmail.com
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3-10. Within each weeklong segment of Camp Creativity, campers in Studios A (ages 5-7) and B (ages 8-10) may enroll in the morning session, the afternoon session, or the full-day program. The optional Pre-Camp period from 8-9 a.m. and Post-Camp period from 3-5:30 p.m. offer creative games and outdoor activities led by trained counselors. Fullday campers have a supervised lunch period (lunch not provided). With their new Preschool Studio offerings, three and four year olds may enroll in the morning session and experience art in a developmentally appropriate and engaging manner. Register at corcoran.org/camps-hill-center.
DC Ed Fund Launches ArtsNowDC Courtesy of the Marine Corps Marathon
ware, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Top winners will be honored during a ceremony at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, Oct. 18. All students who enter the contest can redeem a free contest prize pack at the Library of Congress National Book Festival, which will take place Aug. 30, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C. Students entering 5th and 6th grades in the fall of 2014 are eligible. Essays, focused on a single book, should be one page in length and must be submitted with an entry form, in person, at participating public library locations. The deadline for entries is Monday, Aug. 11, 2014. The list of participating libraries, more information, and program updates is available at loc.gov/bookfest/kids-teachers/booksthatshape/.
ily members near and far. The American Art Museum welcomes families for a full day of live performances, a photo booth, and scavenger hunts. On Saturday, June 14, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., join them for some of our most popular craft activities. American Art Museum, 8th and F Sts. NW. americanart.si.edu
Family Film Night at Sursum Corda
On Saturday, June 14, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., imaginations come alive on a magical day in their award-winning children’s garden. Flutter around the Faerie Cottage, explore beneath the Troll Bridge, catch daisies in the water trough, make arts and crafts, try your hand at games, and be entertained with music and storytelling. A day of make believe has never been so much fun! It’s about two hours from DC. winterthur.org
Now in its fourth year, the NoMa BID presents Family Film Night at Sursum Corda, where families and children gather for free family-centric movies (also fitting the ‘Unlikely Friendships’ theme) and free food. Family Film Night will take place on four Tuesdays this summer: June 24: WALL-E (G) - A small waste collecting robot embarks on a momentous adventure. July 8: Frozen (PG) - Elsa tries and fails to hide her icy powers from her kingdom. July 22: The Lego Movie (PG) - An ordinary Lego construction worker becomes much more when he joins a quest to prevent the Lego universe from becoming glued. Aug. 5: Despicable Me 2 (PG) - Gru is recruited by a anti-villain league to help with a powerful new criminal. The movies will be held in Sursum Corda in the plaza at L and 1st Sts. NW. The event starts at 7 p.m. with kid-centric activities and free food. Films start at sunset. nomabid.org
Family Reunion Celebration at the American Art Museum
Corcoran Summer Camps at Hill Center
Enchanted Summer Day at Winterthur Museum
Summer is the perfect time to reconnect with fam-
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Camps are June 30-Aug 1, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., for ages
The DC Public Education Fund (DC Ed Fund) launched ArtsNowDC—a year-round fund for arts programming in DC Public Schools—at Art Night 2014, a gala art auction at the Pepco Edison Place Gallery. The DC Ed Fund intends to raise a minimum of $100,000 to support arts programming at schools, focusing first on the lowest 40 performing schools. Chancellor Henderson has asked that the initial funds from ArtsNowDC be invested in art supplies and programs. $2,500 per school will fully equip a visual arts program with supplies to use throughout the year including paint and brushes, printers and ink, pencils and markers, paper, and clay, supplying students with the resources to expand and grow their art potential. The same amount per school will support music program needs, such as equipment repairs, or materials and transportation to performances.
NPR’s Hit Show “From the Top” Seeks Local Pre-College Classical Musicians “From the Top” with host Christopher O’Riley, the hit NPR radio program showcasing America’s best young classical musicians, is seeking local talent for its live show recording on Oct. 24, 2014, at GW Lisner Auditorium. The weekly hour-long radio program is heard on Sundays at 6 p.m. on Classical WETA 90.9FM as well as on more than 250 other stations nationwide. The show welcomes audition entries from young classical musicians, ages 8-18, who have not graduated from high school. Solo performers on all instruments, composers and vocalists, as well as instrumental or vocal ensembles are welcome. In addition to seeking talent for
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its upcoming live concert in GW Lisner Auditorium, the program seeks young musicians for other concerts that are part of its national tour. Application and scholarship information is available online at fromthetop.org. Applications and recorded auditions are accepted continuously and on a rolling admissions basis.
Baseball Cap Giveaway On Sunday, June 22, 1:35 p.m. at the Nat’s vs. Atlanta Braves, the first 20,000 fans will receive baseball caps. Kids can also run the bases after this game. Kids Run the Bases begins immediately following the game, weather permitting. An adult must accompany runners to the field. One adult per child on the field. Once the game has ended, it takes the grounds crew approximately 20 minutes to prepare the field. Kids and parents/guardians can begin lining up at the end of the 7th inning, however fans that would like to stay and watch the entire game will still be able to line up once the game has ended. Participants must exit the ballpark through the Right Field Gate. The line forms outside of the park on the sidewalk along First St. washington.nationals.mlb.com
Uno, Dos, Tres con Andrés! at Southwest Library On Tuesday, June 10, 10:30 a.m., sing, shake and sound out rhythms while trying regional Latin dances and practicing Spanish words. Dance to La Bamba, discover the colors in Spanish and meet friends of all kinds, including an iguana named Juana! For ages birth-5. Southwest Neighborhood Library, 900 Wesley Pl. SW. 202-724-4752. dclibrary.org/southwest This program repeats on Tuesday, July 1, 10 a.m. at the Northeast Neighborhood Library, 330 7th St. NE. 202-698-0058. dclibrary.org/northeast
Jazz ‘n Families Fun Days at the Phillips On Saturday, June 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, June 8, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., the Phillips’s annual free weekend features live jazz performances throughout the museum, including musicians improvising to paintings in the galleries. Create art to take home and visit the instrument petting zoo. All activities and museum admission are free. Phillips Collection, 1600 21st St. NW. 202-387-2151. phillipscollection.org
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Sunday Summer Cinema at Northeast Library This summer on Sundays at 2 p.m., the Northeast Library Children’s Department presents their Sunday Summer Cinema Series. Come beat the summer heat with a cool family film during the summer. This program is suitable for all ages, so bring the whole family. A refreshing summer treat will be provided. The film lineup will be on the library home page shortly. Northeast Neighborhood Library, 330 7th St. NE. 202-698-0058. dclibrary.org/northeast
2014 Great American Backyard Campout The 2014 Great American Backyard Campout will take place on Saturday, June 28. The National Wildlife Federation has set a goal of getting more than 200,000 people across the country to camp out. And, just in time for the 10th anniversary of the Great American Backyard Campout, National Wildlife Federation’s Board of Directors and other friends have offered to donate $2 in support of NWF’s wildlife conservation work for every person that participates in this year’s Campout-up to $400,000. All proceeds benefit the National Wildlife Federation. Read more at nwf.org/GreatAmerican-Backyard-Campout where you can also download campfire stories and songs.
Dinosaur Park Open Houses Dinosaur Park is a 41-acre park in Laurel, MD, featuring a rare deposit of fossils from the Cretaceous Period (144 to 65 million years ago). On the first and third Saturdays of the month, noon4 p.m., you’re invited to join paleontologists and volunteers on-site to interpret fossil deposits. Programs start every twenty minutes, are free and appropriate for all ages. Dinosaur Park is on the 13200 block of Mid-Atlantic Blvd. in Laurel. The fenced-in fossil area is only accessible during Open Houses and special events, but the interpretive garden is open every day from dawn to dusk. Admission is free. Dinosaur Park preserves one of the most important dinosaur fossil sites east of the Mississippi River. Visitors can explore a garden of Cretaceous-era plants and view interpretive signs which describe Maryland’s dinosaurs, the prehistoric environment, and the African American history of the area. history.pgparks.com
Saturday Morning at the National Free Performances for Children On Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. there are free live performances for children in the Helen Hayes Gallery. Tickets are required and distributed first come-first seated. Tickets are distributed 1/2 hour prior to performance. One ticket per person in line. The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave., NW. 202-783-3372. June 7, Happenstance Theatre-Pinot and Augustine; June 14, Single Carrot Theatre-Rumpled; June 21, Uncle Devin; June 28, the Yolo Show! Choose to Read; July 12, Arianna Ross-The Magic of the Sea; July 19, Mark Lohr-Classic Comedy; July 26, Mary Ann Jung-Pee Wee Pirates; Aug. 9, Brian Curry-It’s Magic; Aug. 9, Bright Star Theatre-The Ugly Duckling; Aug. 16, Christiana Drapkin-Bop Goes the Weasel!; Aug. 23, Synetic Theatre-Miraculous Magic Balloon. Read more at thenationaldc.org.
Backyard Theater for Children at Strathmore On Thursday, June 26 at 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., Strathmore welcomes back Recess Monkey, a trio of Seattle teacher-musicians whose music has been praised by People, Time and NPR for their pitchperfect understanding of what gets kids up and moving. Get ready to dance, shout and develop a devotion to “kindie rock.” Tickets are $8. The Backyard Theater stage is outdoors under a tent. Please bring blankets or low beach chairs and no pets, please. You are welcome to bring a bag lunch and grab a patch of grass after the applause. Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD. strathmore.org
Learn The Address To celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Gettysburg Address, documentarian Ken Burns, along with numerous partners, has launched a national effort to encourage everyone in America to video record themselves reading or reciting the Abraham Lincoln’s famous speech. Visit learntheaddress.org and learn how to participate and “Share Your Gettysburg Address” by following three simple steps. Your video will be included among presidents, politicians, entertainers, journalists, and hundreds of others who have taken the challenge to LEARN THE ADDRESS. u
APPLICATIONS BEING ACCEPTED FOR THE 2014-2015 SCHOOL YEAR Pre-K 3, Pre-K 4, Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade
Building on our strong foundation as an early childhood program
Apply for admissions at: www.myschooldc.org
Accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools Voted Best Preschool in DC, City Paper Readers Poll 2013!
Bridges PCS is an expanding elementary school growing to serve grades Pre-K–5th by 2017-2018.
• Before & After Care • Small classroom size and well trained staff • Individual planning for each student • Hands-on and project-based curriculum
www.bridgespcs.org 1250 Taylor Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011 p: 202.545.0515 e: info@bridgespcs.org
Free and open to all DC residents. Tuition paid by non-residents.
www.bridgespcs.org
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School Notes Susan Braun Johnson Eliot-Hine Middle School Eliot-Hine Broadcasting Goes Big Time The Eliot-Hine kids made it big – they actually interviewed Queen Latifa on her show. She advised them to be inspired, and she invited them to meet with her in person in Los Angeles. Students next interviewed funk/ jazz musician Roy Ayres in person before he played at the Howard Theater on May 16. He told students of his time in Nigeria on a concert tour, how the children there got up ready to meet the day with enthusiasm, and that they should do the same and follow their passion. Ayres was impressed with the broadcast students’ level of professionalism.
Calling Future Families Eliot-Hine’s PTO meets the second Wednesday of each month. May’s meeting focused on incoming and future Eliot-Hine families. Brent, Miner, Maury, Payne, and Tyler schools feed into Eliot-Hine. Please join the Listserv to see the calendar of events and see how you might get involved – like watering the trees over the summer. Email Anya at anya@artgardendesign.com if interested.
Many Thanks Eliot-Hine’s awesome new logo is courtesy of Nayman Design. Thank you, Leslie. • The elegant landscaping at the front of the building. Thank you, Anya. • The picnic tables for the outdoor classroom. Thank you, ANC6A. • The fish tank in the entryway. Thank you, ANC6A, for the tank and DC Department of the Environment for the fish. Eliot-Hine parent Heather Schoell, Eliot-Hine Middle School, 1830
Brent School fourth-graders enjoy being Rice Rangers, organized every year by the Anacostia Watershed Society (AWS) in Bladensburg.
Brent Elementary Brent’s Rice Rangers Brent fourth-graders continue to be part of the hundreds of Rice Rangers organized every year by the Anacostia Watershed Society (AWS) in Bladensburg. The program allows teachers and students to grow wetland plants from seed in their classrooms and then plant them along the Anacostia River. Students donned rain slickers and boots and planted a variety of seeds and plants.
Brent’s Chess Team Goes to Congress The Brent Chess Team visited the Rayburn House Office Building last month and showcased their chess skills. House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chair Darrell Issa and Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton joined the students in a great afternoon of chess. Denise Diggs, Brent Elementary School, 301 North Carolina Ave. SE; brentlementary.org
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Eliot-Hine School eighth-graders interview Roy Ayers (seated)
Constitution Ave. NE; eliothinemiddleschool.org, @EliotHine and facebook.com/EliotHineMS
Capitol Hill Cluster School The Classic The Cluster marked the month of May with the annual Classic’s 10K, 3K, and fun-run races around Stanton Park. Now in its 35th year, the Classic has grown from a small, low-key road race around the historic homes of Capitol Hill to a stand-alone race that attracts runners from all over the region, who post very competitive times in each category. Yet the Classic is still very much a community event where family and friends and neighbors are likely to gather and bond at the finish line while kids are awarded medals and soak up the applause. After the race many children head over to Stanton Park to hit the playground in a day that highlights physical activity and fitness. This month more than 3,000 people ran in one of the three races – the vast majority of them in the 10K. Students collected pledges for their running, with classrooms competing for top honors and the three campuses of the Cluster – Peabody, Watkins, and Stuart-Hobson – competing for top honors. Money raised by the race goes to the PTA for a range of issues from teacher training and continuing education, to supplies and equipment, to sports team equipment and uniforms and money for field trips, and of course books and resources. While the Classic is part of the essence of the Cluster school, the races have grown in scope and now include children from all across the Hill. This year’s event
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Students participating in Tyler School’s Laps around Lincoln annual jog-a-thon on May 10.
enjoyed sunny skies and a cool temperate – perfect for running.
Tyler Elementary School Tyler Elementary’s annual Laps around Lincoln event was a smashing success. The fifth annual joga-thon helped boost awareness of the importance of health and wellness in learning and raised money for Tyler’s outdoor play space and garden. This year’s event included more than 100 students, staff, and families, and runners completed a total of 789 laps collectively. Tyler is grateful to the sponsors of this event, which include Pacer’s Running Stores, Springmill Bread Company, and Harris Teeter. Colleen Cancio, Tyler Elementary, 1001 G St. SE; TylerElementary.net or contact Colleen Cancio at ccancio@ gmail.com.
officials from across the country went “back to school,” shadowing teachers and experiencing firsthand the challenges and rewards of a day in the classroom. Their team had high praise for the teachers they shadowed. Senior Advisor Jo Anderson, visiting second-grade teacher Nicole Lebedeff at Watkins Elementary School, compared her teaching style to that of a “symphony conductor” and called her classroom management a “work of art.” The Department of Education also featured Watkins third-grade teacher Lisa Jones on its blog. In under two hours her students review the life cycle of plants and check on the progress of their squash and peppers; write, share, and garner feedback on their writing about self-esteem; read independently from books of their choosing; perform a rap song about how to succeed; and work in small groups to construct perfect sentences defining the word “immigrant.” The whole time, Jones – a former insurance underwriter who changed careers six years ago to become a teacher – never lets up, never misses a beat. She expects every student to be engaged and working at all times. “My style doesn’t fit for everyone,” she admits. “The academics, I know they are going to get. But I work the other side too. It’s important that they have self-esteem.” Watkins Elementary School, 420 12th St. SE
Stuart-Hobson Middle School National History Day Citywide Project Winners to Compete Nationally The National History Day projects of several seventh- and eighth-grade students were selected as
citywide winners at the DC competition in April. Students are preparing to compete nationally at the Kenneth E. Behring National History Day Contest at the University of Maryland at College Park, June 15-19.
Stuart-Hobson Eighth-Graders Accepted into Specialized High Schools As of May 14 the following specialized schools have accepted Stuart-Hobson students: Benjamin Banneker Academic High School, 11 students Columbia Heights Education Campus, 2 students Duke Ellington School of the Arts, 4 students McKinley Technology High School, 22 students Phelps ACE High School, 8 students School Without Walls High School, 8 students
Girls’ Soccer Team Ends Winning Season Stuart-Hobson’s Lady Panthers ended their winning season in second place at the DCIAA Championship, losing to Deal Middle School.
School Within School at Goding: Going Once, Going Twice... The 17th Annual Jazz Gala and School Auction was a huge success. More than 300 people attended the May 3 gala at the National Press Club. Special thanks go to co-chairs Emily and Judson Greif. The auction helps fund school technology, teacher development, assistant teacher positions, and more.
Watkins Elementary School High Praise from US Department of Education As part of their celebration of Teacher Appreciation week in early May, more than 65 US Department of Education
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Stuart-Hobson School National History Day citywide winners Niamh N., Ashley H., Sarah C., Zachary G., Joseph E., and Nicholas P.
Principals for a Day One of the hottest items at last month’s auction was a chance to be principal for a day. Dozens of parents entered a raffle for their child to work side-by-side with Principal John Burst. The winners were sisters Anja (second grade) and Ingrid Pratt (pre-K). On a morning the week after the auction, Burst picked up the girls at their house. They quickly got down to the business of running a school. First items on the agenda: extend library time by 10 minutes (Ingrid) and recess by five minutes (Anja). Anja and Ingrid also got to make announcements over the intercom, which delighted their classmates.
Rosen. “Our students are thriving, our parent community is engaged, and our finances our stable. We credit Jason’s mission-driven, transparent, and collaborative management for the school’s achievements and look forward to his continued leadership.” CHDS has completed one of its most successful admissions cycles. Enrollment for 2014-15 stands at a six-year high of 227, with 95 percent student reenrollment and almost 100 percent faculty and staff retention. Gray’s commitment to progressive education for the pre-K-eighth-grade program – including the school’s innovative field education program – attracts families from across the city and surrounding suburbs. Rosen also commended Gray’s work in guiding the school through a top-to-bottom interior renovation of the historic Dent Building in 2011-12, during a severe economic downturn. “Capitol Hill Day School is a wonderful teaching and learning community,” Gray said. I am thrilled to continue collaborating with our dedicated educators, engaged children, and committed parents.”
and sharing personal immigration stories. That evening, CHDS students presented “Circle ‘round,” a celebration of songs and dances from around the world, including a Medieval English sword dance. Eighth-grade drama students performed a scene from Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” Sixththrough-eighth-grade drummers kept the program moving, and CHDS upper-school math teacher Tom Sellevaag provided piano accompaniment. Students closed with Joni Mitchell’s “The Circle Game” and Bruno Mars’ “Count on Me.” The festival was organized by music teacher Jill Brandenburg and drama teacher Michelle Jackson. Jane Angarola, Capitol Hill Day School, 210 South Carolina Ave. SE; jangarola@chds.org
Maury Elementary School
How can you tell the difference between a Need and a Want? What is the relationship between taxes and government? Do you have to pay for purchases made Principals-for-a-Day Ingrid (left) and Anja Pratt (right) head on your credit card? Where does money come from? to school with School Within School Principal-for-Real And (most important) what do you do to make the John Burst. CHDS Circles of Families, Friends, & Field Trips place where you live a good place to live? These and Capitol Hill Day School celebrated Grandparents many other questions are being discussed in the Junior Mayor Honors Sarah Burke, First-Grade Teacher and Grand Friends Day with over 130 special guests, Achievement program at Maury Elementary. School Within School (SWS) founder and first-grade some from as far away as Switzerland, Russia, and QaThe curriculum varies by age. Kindergarten foteacher Sarah Burke got a big surprise last month: tar. They noted the joyful energy of CHDS students, cuses on individuals and what they can do to earn and Mayor Vincent Gray dropped by her classroom to how they learn to treat each other with kindness, and save money. First-graders address the family as an ecohonor her for decades of teaching excellence. Mayor the ways math and science are intertwined with art. nomic unit and the importance of hard work. SecondGray presented Burke with tickets to a Wizards playOne child excitedly explained to his grandparent that grade students learn more about jobs and businesses in off game and other goodies. Burke is retiring after 25 his pre-K class “went to the library to do research.” their communities. Third-graders study city planning years in DC Public Schools, and the whole SWS comHead of School Jason Gray thanked the guests for their and money management. Fourth-grade students are munity will miss her very much. many contributions: volunteering as “mystery readasked to imagine themselves as entrepreneurs starting Hannah Schardt, School Within School, 920 F ers,” demonstrating tortilla making, leading field trips, their own businesses. They must keep in mind St. NE; schoolwithinschool.org all the resources – natural, human, and capital – they will need, to produce a good or service, Capitol Hill Day School and learn how to calculate profit and loss. By Long-Term Contract with Head of School fifth grade students are learning about the inJason Gray, Credited for Recent Strengths terdependence of nations through global trade. in Student Enrollment, Teacher Retention Students are encouraged to complete their eduThe Capitol Hill Day School (CHDS) Board of cation and acquire the skills needed for a modTrustees announced that Head of School Jason ern, technology-based economy. Gray will continue in his position for the next five Junior Achievement is an international oryears. The long-term appointment, unusual for ganization dedicated to promoting economic an independent school, recognizes Gray’s work literacy. Volunteers from the business commuin guiding CHDS over the last several years, with nity present the materials in a series of five visgrowing enrollment and teacher retention and a its per grade, providing an introduction to our strengthening curriculum. economic system. For more information visit “Jason Gray has not only helped Capitol www.ja.org. Hill Day School achieve success today, he has Elizabeth Nelson, Maury Elementary positioned the school for continued greatness in School, 1250 Constitution Ave. NE; mauryyears to come,” said CHDS Board Chair Dean Capitol Hill Day School welcomes grandparents. Photo: Ashley Parham elementary.com
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Elsie Whitlow Stokes Community Freedom PCS Students Set off on International Study Tours
Maury School students in Junior Achievement.
Capitol Hill Montessori at Logan Capitol Hill Montessori at Logan (CHML) had an all-star day on April 17 as parents and students testified on school budgets before the DC Council’s Committee on Education. Four sixthgrade students, Gregory Melchoir-Fisher, Charlie Melchoir-Fisher, Preston Melchoir-Fisher, and Shin-Yung Stallings, were eloquent and compelling as they gave a strong rationale for why the city should fund a science lab for CHML’s middle-grade students. On May 7 students participated in International Bike to School Day and CHML’s First Annual Bike-a-Thon. They learned about bicycle safety while having great fun. Thanks go to CHLM’s Online Auction Platinum Sponsors: The Smith Team, Fulcrum Properties Group, and National Capital Bank. And thanks also to Gold Sponsor Fowler Architects. Their generous support, greatly appreciated, helped make the auction a success. Sara Burns, Capitol Hill Montessori, 215 G St. NE; communications@capitolhillmontessorischool.org; capitolhillmontessorischool.org
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DC Students Shine at Charter School Awards Ceremony The D.C. Association of Chartered Public Schools held its fourth annual DC public charter school STARS Tribute on May 8. Two students, Daniel Spruill of Friendship Collegiate Academy and Stewart Gray of Thurgood Marshall Academy, received checks for $5,000 each, jointly earning the Most Outstanding High School Graduate Award. Daniel Spruill has accepted an offer from Princeton University. First in his class of 240 students, he has a 4.1 GPA and has already earned nearly a year’s worth of college credits. An outstanding high-school graduate, he has earned the coveted AP Scholar Award by passing three advanced placement exams before graduating, including two in calculus. Spruill has twice been named a DC Office of the State Superintendent of Education Scholar. Last summer he attended Stanford University, completing courses in international relations and engineering. Stewart Gray has accepted an offer from Stanford University. In the top 1 percent of his class, Gray has a remarkable 4.5 GPA. He has taken ad-
In May students from the sought-after bilingual immersion program at the Elsie Whitlow Stokes Community Freedom Public Charter School embarked upon an annual tradition of study tours to French-speaking Martinique and Spanish-speaking Panama. Stokes public charter school teaches students to think, write, speak, and learn in either French or English or Spanish or English. Students have the opportunity to visit cultures where these are first languages and improve both language proficiency and knowledge and appreciation of cultures other than their own. Stokes School is one of only a few District public charter schools ranked tier one, high-performing. The Martinique study tour included opportunities to learn about earth sciences, agriculture, and horticulture. Other educational activities included learning about the tropical island’s history of slavery and engaging in cultural celebrations surrounding Emancipation Day. Students met with their peers in Martinique, participating in school LEFT: Daniel Spruill, Friendship Collegiate Academy graduate and lessons and also exchanging cultural award winner. and language perspectives. RIGHT: Stewart Gray, Thurgood Marshall Academy graduate and The Panama study tour includaward winner. ed educational visits to the presidenvanced placement classes for college credit, partial palace and the Panama Canal. Environmenticipated in the engineering program at Stanford, tal learning was emphasized during a visit to the and conducted environmental research with scienGamboa Rainforest. Students were able to combine tists from the Environmental Protection Agency. learning opportunities about the rain forest and natStewart has completed internships with the Antiural springs with learning encounters with the inDefamation League and The Washington Post. He digenous Kuna Indian population. has been involved with local area writers’ groups Dan Cronin, Elsie Whitlow Stokes Communiand is the school’s lead programmer for robotics. ty Freedom Public Charter School, 3700 Oakview Dan Cronin, Friendship Collegiate AcadeTerrace NE; www.ewstokes.org.
Enc Empowouraging e Imag rment and a Safe ination in an Enviro d Caring For Chnment ild Ages 3 ren -9
From June 23 - August 15, 2014 my, 4095 Minnesota Ave. NE; friendshipschools.org. Thurgood Marshall Academy, 2427 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE; thurgoodmarshallacademy.org
Payne Elementary School
Younger children will enjoy performances, trips, picnics in the park, water play (ages 3-5). Older ones (ages 6-9) will enjoy science classes, field trips, Labyrinth games, fitness classes, arts, weekly visits to the pool, gardening and cooking classes and more. Registration Begins February 3 Stop by Maury Elementary School between 3:30-6:00pm and ask for Tina Thomas or Tia Burke to pick up your application. Or download documents at www.politepiggysdaycamp.com and bring to Maury ES. You can also mail applications to PO Box 31215, WDC 20030.
Flexible Scheduling:
Year-End Wrap Up Thanks to a generous donation by one of Reading Is Fundamental’s (RIF) board members and Read with Jane, the Payne Wildcats were able to select a brand new book to add to their personal library. For the Spring Book Fling students participated in spring-themed activities based on stories read by teachers and volunteers. Student-author Kyare Turner of Eastern Senior High School read “The Gloomy Light,” a story he penned and published in conjunction with REACH Incorporated. It is available on Amazon.com. It Takes Two (www.ittakestwoinc.org) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of young people and increasing the opportunities of youth in the DC area. At Payne they organized a very successful girls’ book club. Payne was one of 28 schools to participate in DC Green Schools’ “Sprint to Savings” challenge to reduce energy consumption. The school received the following recognition: “Over the three week period, your school reduced its electricity consumption by 6.2 percent. As you surpassed the 5 percent reduction target, the Department of General Services is pleased to announce that you will be rewarded with a savings payment of $2,500.” Students were excited to see that small actions like turning out lights and powering
ages 3-5: ages 6-9:
Weekly $315 $345
Whole Day $60 $69
Half Day $41 $46
Drop In $66 $71
Early Bird Discount 5% OFF Sibling Discount - 25% OFF (any week of camp paid in full by 5/9/14)
Summer Camp Info Sessions at Maury Elementary Thursday, April 17 & Tuesday, May 13 - 6:15 pm to 7:00 pm Families may register. Children are welcome. More Info: 240-396-8957 ask for VanNessa politepiggysdaycamp.com politepiggysdaycamp@yahoo.com
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Eastern Senior High School student Kyare Turner reads his story, “The Gloomy Light,” to Payne School students.
down computers at the end of the day really paid off. The energy savings will shine into next school year as Payne undergoes renovation this summer. Thanks to overwhelming community support, funds were allocated to proceed with renovation that will start on the last day of school. Upgrades to internal systems, external finishes, and technology will be unveiled this fall. Rakecia Whitaker, Payne Elementary School, 1445 C St. SE
Options Public Charter School Music Department Prospers Charles Diggs, the Options Public Charter School (OPCS) music department director, waited patiently for the audience to arrive. He and the students were ready to transmute nearly a year of practice into a skillful musical performance. Standing in the auditorium as the students completed their final preparations, Diggs expected that they would display the results of their hard work and dedication in this performance. The show started with remarks welcoming Bishop Larry
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L. Frazier of the Word of Faith Church located in Riverdale, Md. Following the introduction of honored guests, US Army Captain John Harrison and the highly trained OPCS Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps presented the national colors. Students then performed musical selections from many genres, ranging from a classical piano recital by student Kobe Brock-Smith to a contemporary jazz performance by the OPCS Jazz ensemble. Performances also included a hip/hop song written and performed by student Dijon Issac, as well as an emotional gospel performance by student Tahja Powell. The concert was a tremendous success. At its conclusion Charles Vincent, executive director of OPCS, presented contribution trophies for the well-deserving students of the music department and the work of its director. Creative endeavors in the arts like the OPCS Spring Concert keep students engaged in school life and demonstrate the importance of the arts in schools.
Friends Community School FCS Fun Run and Spring Trips On May 10 Friends Community School (FCS) hosted its first annual Fun Run at Fraternity Row Field, University of Maryland. The Fun Run promoted exercise and fitness in an enjoyable and non-competitive format. With the encouragement of friends and family, 52 FCS students and friends ran, jogged, and walked a whopping 1071 laps around a 550-foot track followed by field games and recycled crafts generously provided by Com-
munity Forklift. The Fun Run was organized by Pilar Suescum, a Capitol Hill resident and mother of two FCS students. Students went on several capstone class trips this spring. Kindergarten and first- and secondgrade students camped at Catoctin Quaker Camp in Thurmont, Md., where they studied science and nature. Third- and fourth-grade students camped at Turkey Run Park, where they lived for three days as settlers did in colonial times. Fifth-grade students visited New York City, culminating their year-long study of immigration. They participated in a workshop on immigration at the Museum of the City of New York and also visited Ellis Island, the Tenement Museum, and Chinatown. Sixth-grade students visited Fallingwater, in western Pennsylvania, a house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Earlier in the year they read “The Wright 3,” a mystery novel with clues related to Wright’s architecture. At Fallingwater they attended a workshop on the cantilever, a prominent feature of the house. Seventh-grade students hiked and camped on part of the Appalachian Trail to build community within class and to increase their involvement with nature. Eighth graders went to the Rehoboth and Lewes, Del., areas. As part of their study of Quakerism and social justice they visited Third Haven Meeting House in Easton, Md., one of the oldest Quaker Meeting Houses in the country and home to some of the earliest Abolitionists. They spent time on the beach but also helped to clean Cape Henlopen State Park. Eric Rosenthal, Friends Community School, 5901 Westchester Park Drive, College Park, Md.; www.friendscommunityschool.org
J.O. Wilson Elementary School
Music Director Charles Diggs conducts Soulful Voices at the Options Public Charter School (OPCS) Spring Concert. Photo: Marian Taylor.
J.O. Wilson student artists have been busy. Several participated in the citywide DC Public Schools Student Art Exhibit, which presented works by students from preschool to twelfth-grade, from all DCPS schools, and was on display at Reagan National Airport. Additionally families enjoyed the annual Art Night, presented each year by art teacher Elizabeth Wyrsch-Ba.
Students at Friends Community School enjoy the first annual Fun Run in May.
With staff and parent volunteer help Ba displayed art from each student in the school. The evening also offered a cheer from the J.O. Wilson cheerleading team, two songs from the student performance of “101 Dalmatians,” and dinner generously provided by a J.O. Wilson family, the Aungs. Students celebrated Mother’s Day by selecting a jewelry gift at the First Annual Blanche H. Milloy Mother’s Day Jewelry Shop, hosted by the Friends of J.O. Wilson. For more than 20 years the friends have supported the school community with fundraising efforts and enrichment opportunities, and the event was one way to acknowledge the kindness and partnership of the group, as well as to honor mothers. Thanks go to the Friends of J.O. Wilson for this special event, and for all they do, along with local school volunteers, to enrich the students’ lives. J.O. Wilson second-grade classes hosted publishing parties as a culmination of their research and writing. Ms. Gruse’s students became animal experts, researching their animals, then drafting, editing, revising and publishing their papers.
The publishing parties are a time to celebrate students’ writing efforts and talent. Thanks are offered to parents, staff, students, and friends, and to the local community, for supporting the Flea Market Fair. J.O. Wilson Elementary greatly appreciates all volunteers, vendors, and friends and looks forward to next year. Samantha Caruth, J.O. Wilson Elementary School, 660 K St. NE; www.jowilsonelementary.org
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Amidon-Bowen Elementary School New Saturday School Amidon-Bowen has introduced Saturday school as a way to help students who seek assistance outside of normal school hours to prepare for testing. A 5-1 student-to-faculty ratio enables the students to benefit from time devoted to reading and math. Volunteers are required to receive their certification from DC Public Schools. Lunch is provided through time and money from Principal Izabela Miller, Marty Welles, Bruce DarConte, and Waterfront Gateway in Southwest. A cookout hosted by Welles
MAKE YOUR PET A STAR! Send us your favorite pet photos for a chance at fame and fortune and prizes! Winning entries will be published in the July Hill Rag, our Special Pet Issue, and on our website at www.hillrag.com. In addition,winners receive gift certificates and prizes from our partners. In Partnership With
TO ENTER • Send photos to 224 7th St., SE, Washington, DC (Attention Pet Contest 2014) OR E-mail to pets@hillrag.com (make sure your photo is over 300 dpi). • Maximum of two photos per entry. Include your name, a phone number, the name of your pet, a caption for the photo and/or category. • Photos cannot be returned.
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and DarConte to thank the Saturday volunteers and students drew about 100 attendees. NSC “Partner” Nando’s Peri Peri in Yards Park had donated lunch to all the students free of charge. Principal Izabela Miller hopes to expand the program next year. As part of its recent renovation, the school received new windows that are more energy efficient and produce a modern look to match its recent interior makeover. Bruce DarConte, Near Southeast Community Partners, Amidon-Bowen Elementary School, 401 I St. SW; http://profiles.dcps. dc.gov/amidon-bowen+elementary+school
St. Peter School Field Day Barbecue with Dads St. Peter School students rounded out the merry month of May at a field day topped off with a barbecue hosted by school dads. Led by P.E instructor Kelley Allen, field day began with students and faculty enjoying rounds of capture-the-flag, relay races, and a massive tug-of-war. The entire school community enjoyed lunch grilled up by a corps of school-dad volunteers, as well as frozen treats and the annual eighth grade-faculty basketball game. It was a great way to mark the final days of the term and the beginning of summer vacation.
Newbery Club Reading Adventure A bus load of students in grades four through six embarked upon the annual St. Peter’s Newbery Club reading adventure, an independent reading group centered on books that have received the prestigious Newbery Medal for distinguished contribution to American literature for children. After reading three Newbery novels of their choice, and a mandatory reading of “Call It Courage” by Armstrong Sperry, club members tested their own courage with a trip to Camp Calleva for an outdoor adventure of building fires, creating shelters, foraging, for food and – best of all – zip lining.
Penny Wars The St. Peter School Student Council launched Penny Wars this spring to raise money for their sister school in Haiti. The
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schoolwide, interclass competition called on students to collect pennies in class jars. The kicker? Other classes could sabotage penny totals by dropping silver coins (nickels, dimes, or quarters) into competitors’ jars. A sabotage meant the amount of the silver coins was subtracted from the penny total. Needless to say, a good deal of strategy went into this friendly competition. At the end of the day, while fifth grade donated the most money to its jar, sixth grade won owing to fewer sabotage attempts. Most importantly, more than $2,900 was raised for the school in Haiti. Sally Aman, St. Peter School, 422 3rd St. SE; www.stpeterschooldc.org
Katy Dunn Appointed Principal of Archbishop Carroll High School Archbishop Carroll High School President Beth Blaufuss and the Board of Directors have appointed Katy Dunn as principal, effective July 1. In the shift to a principal-president structure, Dunn will maximize the day-to-day operations of the school while President Blaufuss continues to lead strategic planning, community relations, and development. Dunn comes to Carroll High School with a wide-ranging understanding of high school curricula and instruction. Currently at DC Prep Public Charter School, Dunn supervises support for that school’s high school-aged alumni in over 30 selective schools. She has developed a counseling program that improves academic success for students, and she has also worked with the academic programs and pedagogy of all the schools her current students attend. From her work as a teacher, service program coordinator, and dean of students at Catholic high schools, including Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart in Bethesda, Md., she gained an appreciation for diverse elements of the schools that prepare her for the varied tasks as a principal.
2014 Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship DC Recipients The Comcast Leaders and Achievers Schol-
arship Program recognizes leadership skills, academic achievement, and commitment to community service. The program provides $1,000 scholarships to students who strive to achieve their potential, who are catalysts for positive change in their communities, who are involved in their schools, and who serve as models for their fellow students. This year’s recipients are: Kibrebeal Ayalew of Calvin Coolidge Senior High School Amanda Burnham of Hospitality High School Danielle Fox of Cardozo High School Amber Hudson of Thurgood Marshall Academy Tai’Lon Jackson of Ballou High School Cierra Nichols of Benjamin Banneker Academic High School Londan Preston of Cesar Chavez Public Charter Schools for Public Policy –Capitol Hill Campus Ashley Prillaman of Duke Ellington School of the Arts Shaquan Thomason of Washington Mathematics Science Technology Public Charter High School Raissa Tseumie of Columbia Heights Education Campus
New “City as Our Classroom” Task Force A group of 30 District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) teachers, parents, and central office staff launched a new task force to create “The City as Our Classroom” curriculum to support student learning. The task force will create a new guidance document for teachers to help students experience everything Washington has to offer as part of teaching units for the 2014-15 school year. “Our city is filled with history, culture, experiences and sites that correspond with what our students are learning in their classroom,” said DCPS Chancellor Kaya Henderson. “I want our teachers to use our city to bring their classroom lessons to life for our students. D.C. has so much to offer – I am excited that this task force is going to create a comprehensive and living document to help us leverage the unique cultural and natural resources of the District and beyond.” The task force will review the K-12 literacy, math, science, and social studies curricula and develop experiential learning opportunities that correspond to the DCPS units of study, within the curriculum aligned to the Common Core State Standards. Participants represent a cross-section of the city and include content experts familiar with the curriculum as well as parents for their insight into what will engage students. The community members also bring insight about the District and creative ideas, as some are native Washingtonians or have lived here for significant periods of time. “This task force is going to infuse enrichment into the classroom in a brand new way,” said Brian Pick, chief of the Office of Teaching and Learning. “We have already made so many important strides in improving our curriculum, and I know this new level of support for teachers will help make a real difference in how and what our students learn. When they can see this city
in a whole new way, inside and outside of the classroom, we will create an environment for continuous learning.” Over the next four months the task force will divide into small groups, each focusing on a specific grade band to target experiential learning in a way that is developmentally and age appropriate. The task force will conduct focus groups with teachers and school leaders. The final meeting will include presenting the findings to Chancellor Henderson. Upon final review the document will be available to teachers for the start of the 2014-15 school year. http://dcps. dc.gov/DCPS/Parents+and+Community/ Experiential+Learning+Taskforce
DC Ed Fund Launches ArtsNowDC to Expand Arts Education Art Night 2014 Brings Together Patrons of the Arts and Raises Thousands with Art Created by Students and Teachers Last month DC Public Education Fund (DC Ed Fund) launched a new initiative, ArtsNowDC – a year-round fund for arts programming in DC Public Schools – at Art Night 2014, a gala art auction at the Pepco Edison Place Gallery. DC Ed Fund intends to raise a minimum of $100,000 to support school arts programming. The gala moved them more than halfway to their goal. Following the silent and live auctions, during which attendees purchased over 50 original pieces of artwork, event co-chair Peggy Cooper Cafritz and arts enthusiast George Vradenburg each committed additional support to the new initiative. “Our young people thrive when we provide access to arts and humanities programming,” said Chancellor Kaya Henderson to the audience, “and the launch of ArtsNowDC will allow us to provide additional opportunities to our students who need it most.” Chancellor Henderson has asked that the initial funds be invested in art supplies and programs in the school district’s 40 lowest-performing schools. An investment of $2,500 per school will fully equip a visual arts program with supplies to use throughout the year including paint and brushes, printers and ink, pencils and markers, paper, and clay, supplying students with
the resources to expand and grow their art potential. The same amount per school will support music program needs such as equipment repairs, materials, and transportation to performances. In addition to the launch of ArtsNowDC, the evening featured jazz music by the School Without Walls Stage Band, modern and interpretive performances by Trashion Fashion, and a musical performance by award-winning singer, songwriter, and pianist Tony DeSare. Primary support for Art Night was provided by Pepco, which donated the Pepco Edison Place Gallery as well as additional funds to ensure the event’s success. Additional sponsors included Skanska, Yamaha, American Marketing Association-DC, Centric, CSX, Doggett’s Parking Company, GCS-SIGAL LLC, DC Arts and Humanities Education Collaborative, Zaytinya, and Geppetto Catering. See the full list of supporters: http://501auctions.com/ dcedfundartnight/custom/sponsors. Participating schools and art teachers who contributed artwork for the evening include: Anne Beers Elementary School, Rosie Navarro; Ballou High School, visiting photographer Lana Wong; Barnard Elementary School, Courtney Rapanick; Fillmore Arts Center, Tiik Pollet, Peter Romero, Marja Ponka-Carpenter; Horace Mann Elementary School, Paige Byrne; Incarcerated Youth Program, Elizabeth Dittamo; Lafayette Elementary School, Laurie McLaughlin; Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School, Bryan Hill; McKinley Technology Education Campus, Yolanda Green; Patterson Elementary School, Elizabeth Stewart; School Without Walls, student Jackson Engman; Seaton Elementary School, Terry Thomas; Sharpe Health, Glady Diaz; Sousa Middle School, Jenna Lee; Stuart-Hobson Middle School, Laura Aikman; Thomas Elementary School, Dominique Reid and visiting photographer Lana Wong; Watkins Elementary School: a special tribute to art teacher Laurie Siegel (1947-2013), who taught at Watkins Elementary School for 25 years. DC Public Education Fund is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to accelerating innovation in DC Public Schools. www.dceducationfund.org u
Waterfront Academy is Hosting Five Open Houses in June! Join us and meet some of our school’s leaders, tour the new facility and learn more about our great school! Mon. June 9 at 10a-12p Wed, June 11 at 5:30p-7:30p Sat, June 21 at 12p-2p Mon, June 23 at 10a-12p Wed, June 25 at 5:30p-7:30p Now accepting applications: · 2014-15 School Year (ages 3-9 y) · Spanish Immersion Summer Camp (July 28—Aug 21) · Mamá y Yo classes (ages 18 m —3 y) Waterfront Academy is a dual immersion (Spanish and English) faith-based Montessori school with emphasis on charity and stewardship in the Catholic tradition.
60 I Street SW WaterfrontAcademy.org June 2014 H 151
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{home & garden} Roses are Easy… Really! by Cheryl Corson, RLA, ASLA
Y
ears ago, as I looked out at my new Capitol Hill front yard, over 30 hybrid tea roses planted by my predecessor stared back at me. I froze. I wish I’d known then about Capitol Hill’s Potomac Rose Society (not named for Potomac, Maryland). I could have called one of their Consulting Rosarians for free advice. For $15 a year I could have joined. If you like roses, it’s the best deal in town. And who doesn’t like roses?
Roses on the Hill Right now we’re enjoying what rosarians call the first flush of roses in bloom. On the Hill this occurs from late May through mid-June. Front yards all over the neighborhood are full of their showy, fragrant displays. My husband has always said that Capitol Hill has a climate better suited to roses than any other Washington, DC neighborhood. In a recent conversation with Carol Edwards, Potomac Rose Society Secretary, and President of the Capitol Hill Garden Club, I asked if this was true. “I can’t prove that but I think it is true,” she said. Ms. Edwards went on to explain that we tend not to get Japanese beetles on the Hill, an insect known for their voracious appetite for rose flowers, buds, and leaves. (I will add here that once I got chickens my own Japanese beetle problem vanished.) But on the Hill, says Carol, the federal government, to address this problem, regularly sprays organic milky spore, a naturally occurring bacterium harmful to grubs, or larval beetles, and there could be some beneficial drift to nearby areas. Also, our proximity to the Anacostia River moderates the climate, encouraging roses to bloom earlier than other DC areas. Carol Edwards’ final theory is that people are always digging up Capitol Hill for utilities, roads, buildings, or green spaces, and this makes it hard for grubs to get established in the soil. This all makes sense. One other reason people may think Capitol Hill is great for roses is that you see so many of them. But then, people tend to plant their showy roses in their front gardens where they can be enjoyed. So there may simply be a causal inference operating here, which we don’t mind.
Roses and the Environment People equate roses with heavy chemical use, and while this is too often the case, it is not necessarily so. But just as there are blood diamonds and inhumanely mass-produced poultry, mass-produced, commercial cut roses have an undeniably heavy environmental footprint. About 80% of the roses you’ll see at major chain stores are grown in Latin America, South America, and Africa where intensive water use, herbicide and pesticide use abound. These chemicals adversely affect the environment and the health of workers, who are also pressed into extreme overtime hours leading up to our Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day holidays, clipping stems in super-chilled factories. Amy Stewart’s 2007 book, ‘Flower Confidential: The Good, the Bad, and the Beautiful in the Business of Flowers’ looks into this. Fair Trade rose options are now available, from vendors like Fair Trade USA
Did the owner plan this bold complementary color combination? Photo: Cheryl Corson
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Potomac Rose Society field trip to the US Botanic Garden’s Rose Garden. Photo: Joe Covey
(http://fairtradeusa.org/products-partners/flowersplants) and One World Flowers (http://www.oneworldflowers.org) which claim low or no pesticide use, living wages, etc. This is a good step, though with all Fair Trade certifications, do your own research. In your own garden, where you can work as much or as little as you wish, you may grow chemical-free roses to enjoy whenever they happen to bloom. The Potomac Rose Society supports people who are passionate about growing roses rather than seeking the perfect cut rose. This approach offers the ultimate guilt-free rose experience.
Grow Your Own Roses If roses were really that hard to grow, do you think there would be fossil evidence of them going back 35 million years? The University of Illinois cites this and other fun facts in their informative web site, Our Rose Garden (http://urbanext.illinois. edu/roses/history.cfm). But are roses more prone to disease than other garden plants? “Yes,” says our expert Carol Edwards. She quickly points out that Texas A&M’s AgriLife Extension Service has undertaken extensive field trials to determine which rose cultivars require the least amount of care, exhibit the most heat and drought tolerance, and thrive in the widest range of soil types. They have given these their own trademarked designation, calling them Earth-Kind Roses® You can learn more about them on their web site, http://aggiehorticulture.tamu.edu/earthkindroses/about/.
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If you have a sunny, well-drained spot and can dig a deep hole in which to add compost, you can plant a rose. Plant some herbs around it, like chives, and some other summer blooming perennials a few feet away to take over when your rose’s first flush fades later in June. If your rose defoliates in the heat of summer, it’s not dead, it’s resting. Don’t hold that against it. It’ll revive in September and October with a second round of blooms, more beautiful when combined with fall blooming perennials like Japanese anemone (try Anemone x hybrida ‘Honorine Jobert’), ‘Fireworks’ goldenrod (Solidago rugosa ‘Fireworks’), ‘Chocolate’ Eupatorium (Eupatorium rugosum ‘Chocolate’), or the orchid look alike toad lily (Tricurtis hirta). Yes, you can forego the learning curve and pop a Knock Out® Rose in the ground (http:// www.starrosesandplants.com/plants/series/knockout-family-roses). These ubiquitous roses, which have broken all advertising records, threaten to overtake the rose world as a monoculture. But where’s the fun in that? You can be part of history by growing a heritage rose, much like the heirloom tomatoes we have so recently learned to prize. See the Heritage Rose Foundation for more (http://www.heritagerosefoundation.org/). Why not research and find a heritage rose that would have been commercially available in the year your house was built, and grow it?
The Potomac Rose Society Climbers, ramblers, floribundas, hybrid teas, shrub roses – if you join the Potomac Rose Society these categories will become meaningful to you. You don’t have to be a member to attend their meetings at the Franciscan Monastery in nearby Northeast DC, which has a lovely 80 year old rose garden (http://www.myfranciscan.org/monastery/the-gardens/garden-guild/). But if you join, you can be part of an invigorated 21st century group that adds value to the streets of Capitol Hill. In the 1950s, the Potomac Rose Society had thousands of members, says Carol Edwards. Now there are about 100. Things go in cycles, and this could be the time for a rose revival. It happened with knitting; it’s happening with heirloom tomatoes, so why not roses? To help things along, the Society recently convened a one day symposium called, “Roses are Easy.” They will meet again in June, August and September. For program details, contact Society President Joe Covey (http://www.potomacrose.org/). You can read a sample newsletter, The Capital Rose, at http://ncagardenclubs.org/nca_pdf_files/caprose_ news_jan_feb_2014.pdf. This is the only club in which you can, and must literally stop and smell the roses. Eventually, my husband and I stopped being intimidated by the dozens of hybrid tea roses we’d inherited, and before long our front yard was a happy blended family including these most royal flowers plus herbs and even collard greens and okra. Like diamonds, roses look good with everything. Cheryl Corson, RLA, is a local landscape architect who practices on Capitol Hill (www.cherylcorson.com). Although devoted to native plants, she agrees with the poem, “give us bread, but give us roses!” u
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Pacesetting Gardens
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article and photos by Derek Thomas
pring this year was particularly memorable. A number of factors collided and made for a spectacular display of kaleidoscopic colors. Plants like daffodils had varieties like the usually very early ice follies blooming with the usually very late Salomé; pansies rebounded just in time to compete with the tulips and hyacinths. The obvious voids of less hardy plants that were not returning from the winter’s cold were quickly overshadowed by huge dogwood and iris displays. The destructive, death640 South Carolina Ave. SE.
of Capitol Hill erupted in a brilliant unorchestrated show. Here are five pacesetters.
900 East Capitol St. NE This soaring Victorian is the perfect example of why the Hill is in the top 10 neighborhoods in the country. The home would be spectacular even without a great garden. However, the wraparound garden is a gracious nod to a time before cell phones and Internet connections, a slower time and place when residents spent cool springs and humid summers in the garden’s front lawn, when parties were for croquet and picnic blankets, not tablets and interactive video games. Roses spill over iron fences, and boxwoods and magnolias make up the Victorian charm. A manicured lawn joins home to garden, and the side yard is long and luxurious. Well done 900 East Capitol St. NE.
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ly remains of winter past blew out as rapidly as the flowers exploded in every tree box and park space. Spring in Washington can be so beautiful and has a way of balancing and centering every gardener with a sense of revitalization and renewal.
Perched atop a hill on this grand avenue is a beautiful home and garden. The garden is private due to the elevated perch it sits on and the enormous azalea that adds to the height and privacy of this charming cottage garden. A wall of stunning red followed by evergreen beauty, this monster hedge is a true living wall for the private garden inside. Russian sage and chives create harsh contrast with hydrangea and oriental lilies. Iris and English daisies buck for prominence and importance. Roses, day lilies, and speedwell wait patiently in the wings for their 15 minutes of annual fame. The walk to the home is filled with potted tomatoes and petu-
Five Great Gardens Several times this spring I felt like a bobblehead dog perched in the rear window of a car. Head bouncing left then right, up then down, not sure which way to look as the sights of spring were everywhere and the brightness of color was spectacular. Magnificent even on a cloudy day, the gardens
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nias in an oddly creative fashion. The front porch is the spot to be in as this garden unfolds, act after act, in a charming cottage play of floral abundance. Lemonade anyone?
1403 South Carolina Ave. SE The negative spaces created by this garden’s riverstone center make the fullness of its border quite amazing. The garden is built around a dry stone bed that is breached only by the creeping liriope silver dragon. From this place the fullness of the surrounding garden is quite impressive. The solitary flower, which seems to be an iris interloper
1403 South Carolina Ave. SE.
to a time when horses strode down Independence Avenue, rushing home their passengers and breezing by the lush planted spaces. Antiquity in horticulture.
904 Maryland Ave. NE
156 13th St. SE.
from the neighbor’s garden, is the only predictable spring flower. That is what makes the space truly impressive. In the absence of flowering colors the garden is full of shape, texture, and, well, color. The rich red of the Japanese laceleaf maple and the plum shades of the loropetalum make the tips of the dwarf crape pop out in coppery, fire-filled protest. The cool blue of the blue star juniper is subdued against the grays of the river stone. The boxwood and liriope are contrasting opposites in texture and height; the wall of chindo viburnum that creates a living screen softens the transition from home to street. Nicely lush and perfectly tranquil.
156 13th St. SE
This rose garden pops with vibrant color and charm. The true stars are the roses and they are displayed unashamedly in random chaos. The garden has purple and red, pink, and salmon roses smashed together in chords that are both pleasing and startling. Roses make the transition from spring to summer, and in this garden the transition is flawless. In the understory of these magnificent plants are phlox and iris and ground orchids. The roses set the pace and the understory plantings contain the story. Here lies a garden created to show passion for the rose. Enjoy.
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Derek Thomas is principal of Thomas Landscapes. His garden designs have been featured on HGTV’s “Curb Appeal” and “Get It Sold.” His weekly garden segment can be seen on WTTG/ Fox 5 in Washington. He can be reached at www. thomaslandscapes.com or 301-642-5182. Find and friend him on Facebook at Facebook/Thomas Landscapes. Go to Twitter @ThomasGardenGuy for great garden tips. u
The winding brick path that takes visitors through this space is as peacefully at home on the Hill as it is perfect for the lush garden that it intersects. Overflowing with roses and phlox, magnolia and forsythia, hydrangea and ajuga, it shows a nonstop palette of plants that will produce a longer continuous show than an overbooked circus act. Strong elements like the two-story magnolia that has been espaliered on the Independence Avenue wall and subtle accents like the delicate coral bells popping up through the hydrangeas make this garden a living, park-like crawl. The roses that flank the iron fence speak 904 Maryland Ave. NE.
June 2014 H 157
The Capitol Hill Garden Club presents
Dear Garden Problem Lady, by Wendy Blair
Feeling beset by gardening problems? Send them to the Problem Lady c/o The Capitol Hill Garden Club at andrew@hillrag.com. Your problems might prove instructive to others and help them feel superior to you. Complete anonymity is assured.
G G ROOFING
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Licensed & Insured | All Work Managed & Inspected by Owners 158 H Hillrag.com
Keith Roofing
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• New or Re-Roofing • Tear-Off & Replacement • Flat Roof Specialist • Copper, Tin, Sheet Metal & Rolled • Seamless & Flat Roofs • Re-Sealing • Tar, Asphalt, Gravel, Hot Coats • Modified Bitumen Insurance Claims • Free Estimates • 24Hr. Service
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What is the best time of year to plant clematis in DC? The fall, sometime after the heat dies down, maybe September. You need to spare the new clematis the rigors of our summer heat while it is trying to get established. This period gives it the most time to form strong roots, ready for its first blooming season next spring. The other planting time, in spring, can work too, but is definitely second best. This year I am trying to grow tomatoes for the first time. I bought the so-called indeterminate kind because a friend told me their fruit is the most abundant. Then he said I shouldn’t forget to “pinch them back” when the growing season gets under way. Whoa! They are bushy as heck and tall. How and where should I be pinching? You must try to remove all suckers – extra branches that try to appear everywhere on a tomato plant – at the base of the main stem and
Standard Cleaning Services Over15 years Serving Capitol Hill
in the crooks of each side branch. Use your fingers to snip and remove the beginnings of new shoots inside each existing branch up and down the main stem. Some suckers are very long and already strong. Their extra leaves will rob you of fruit. If a sucker is strong and well established, cut it off with scissors a few inches from the main stem. Who will water my garden for several weeks this summer while I am away? No one I know. You might consider installing drip irrigation. A company called Drip Works offers a free catalogue and an informative website, www.dripworksusa.com. The starter kit on page 4 of the catalogue is a good place to begin. Drip Works offers a design service as well. An excellent book on do-it-yourself drip irrigation is Robert Kourik’s “Drip Irrigation for Every Landscape and All Climates,” 2nd edition. You must make sure you also have a pressure regulator. It prevents water under high pressure from rushing out of your spigot and blowing holes in your irrigation tubing.
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Can you give some ideas for ground covers? We have some sun but mostly shade. I am tired of vinca, ajuga – even pachysandra – and I know English ivy is invasive. Also rats seem to live in my neighbor’s English ivy. Try oxalis, also known as sorrel. There are many varieties. Some find it invasive too. There is also sweet woodruff (delicate) and wild ginger (low, shiny, succulent leaves). For a color change take a look at the low, flowing, chartreuse grass called Hakonechloa aureola. The Capitol Hill Garden Club’s regular monthly meetings on the second Tuesday evening of each month will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 9. u
June 2014 H 159
Classifieds OTHER SERVICES
HOME SERVICES AIR & HEATING
PET SERVICES
MISCELLANEOUS
APPLIANCES REPAIR
BASEMENT EXCAVATION
CARPET CLEANING
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June 2014 ★ 161
JACKS
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June 2014 ★ 163
G G ROOFING
STORAGE
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AWARDED BEST WASHINGTON, DC CONTRACTOR OF 2012 BY ANGIE’S LIST FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED • “50 YEARS EXPERIENCE”
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164 ★ Hillrag.com
WATERPROOFING
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®
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OTHER SERVICES
Dr. David Walls-Kaufman
zoolatry
PET SERVICES
(zoo-ahl’-uh-tree) the worship of animals – especially a pet
BEAUTY/HEALTH/FITNESS
Chiropractor
Mid-Day Dog Walking Service
411 East Capitol St., SE All are welcome to Dr. Walls-Kaufman's free Saturday morning Tai Chi class at 8 am in Lincoln Park
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PET ADOPTION
CAPITAL CATS
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• • • • • •
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a five-minute walk from Eastern Market Metro.
Visit our Web site to view pictures and their engaging personalities at www.capitalcats.petfinder.com or www.homealone.petfinder.com Capital Cats is a non-profit cat rescue organization on the Hill that has many wonderful, personable cats and kittens available for adoption to good homes.
Larry Elpiner Elpiner 301.767.3355 • 202.543.7055 www.anchorcomputers.com
June 2014 ★ 165
MISC. NANNY AVAILABLE EXPERIENCED PT NANNY
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June 2014 ★ 167
{the last word}
Violence at Twelve Restaurant & Lounge Continues As ANC 6A Raises the Alarm The stabbing that occurred at Twelve Restaurant & Lounge (“XII”) on H Street NE this past weekend is just the latest entry in the extremely long and frustrating history with this establishment. Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6A and the neighbors of this establishment have experienced numerous instances of altercations in and around XII, broken promises regarding noise mitigation, chronic violations of XII’s Settlement Agreement (a contract it signed with the community with restrictions on its operations), and a complete disregard for the safetyand quiet of the neighborhood. This stabbing is the second such incident in just two months; a stabbing took place inside XII the night of March 7, 2014. After that incident, XII came before the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board (“ABC Board”) and made many new promises, including changes to its security plan designed to prevent such an incident from happening again. Nevertheless, two months later, another stabbing takes place, with one victim currently reported to be in grave condition. The community should be able to expect swift (and permanent) action against an establishment that regularly flouts the rules and laws and is also host to multiple violent incidents. However, the ABC Board not taken any action to rein in such a bad actor. In fact, this weekend’s stabbing was able to take place only because the ABC Board issued an order allowing XII to operate under an expired liquor license while it files a third application for renewal, after the first two were dismissed for XII’s failure to attend required hearings. The Board’s failure to apply its own rules and regulations fairly to all parties has had a direct impact on XII’s being able to continue to operate in an unsafe manner. Ironically, the ABC Board holds community members and ANCs to much stricter standards than it does to licensees in a protest process. When a new license or renewal is publicized (“placarded”), protestants (typically the ANC and community) and the licensees have three required dates of attendance: 1) Roll Call Hearing; 2) Status Hearing; and 3) Protest Hearing. If the parties are unable to work out their differences and settle the dispute, the protest hearing moves forward as scheduled. However, if a protestant (typically an ANC) misses just one of the three required attendance dates without good cause shown, it is dismissed from its protest. Protestants who are dismissed typically do not receive a second chance to renew their protest. On the other hand, the Board has shown that it will allow a licensee to repeatedly miss any of those three required hearings with no consequences. When a licensee misses a required hearing without cause, their application may be
168 H Hillrag.com
Chronology of Twelve Restaurant & Lounge’s License Renewal Process: • S eptember 13, 2013 – XII’s first renewal application is placarded. • October 19, 2013 – ANC 6A notifies the ABC Board that it is protesting XII’s license renewal. •D ecember 11, 2013 – ANC 6A attends required Status Hearing. Representatives from XII fail to appear. ABC Board dismisses XII’s first renewal application for failure to attend required Status Hearing. •D ecember 17, 2013 - XII requests reinstatement of its renewal application. • J anuary 15, 2014 – ABC Board denies XII’s request because it did not demonstrate good cause for its failure to appear. • J anuary 15, 2014 through February 5, 2014 – Despite its renewal application being dismissed and its previous application expiring, XII continues to operate without any intervention by the ABC Board. • F ebruary 5, 2014 – ABC Board issues Cease and Desist Order to XII because it failed to file a new renewal application. • F ebruary 7, 2014 – XII submits its second renewal application. • February 12, 2014 – ABC Board vacates its previous order and allows XII to re-open. The order is issued with an effective date of February 7. • F ebruary 21, 2014 – XII’s second renewal application is placarded. arch 7, 2014 – An individual is stabbed on the •M premises of XII. •M arch 8, 2014 – MPD Chief Lanier exercises her power under D.C. Code § 25-827 and summarily suspends XII’s liquor license. •M arch 19, 2014 – ABC Board conducts summary suspension hearing regarding the stabbing incident.
“dismissed,” but the Board simply instructs the licensee to re-file an application. In the instance of a licensee who is filing for renewal of its application, such as XII, the licensee is allowed to continue to operate and sell alcoholic beverages. In the case of XII, ANC 6A protested the license renewal application of XII based on a long history of violations and broken promises. XII subsequently missed two required protest dates without showing good cause. These actions had absolutely no consequences to XII – the establishment has essentially been allowed three chances to renew its license without ceasing operations (the Board briefly issued a Cease and Desist order based on XII’s most recent failure to attend a required hearing, but subsequently reversed itself a couple of days later without a
XII presents plans to, among other things, train its employees on preserving a crime scene, use metal detector “wands” at its entrance when offering entertainment, and implement a new security plan. • March 20, 2014 – ABC Board permits XII to re-open. • April 6, 2014 – ANC 6A again notifies the ABC Board that it is protesting XII’s license renewal •A pril 21, 2014 – ANC 6A attends required Roll Call Hearing. Representatives from XII fail to appear. ABC Board dismisses XII’ssecond renewal application for failure to attend required Roll Call Hearing. XII does not request reinstatement. • April 21, 2014 through May 7, 2014 – Despite its second renewal application being dismissed and its previous application having long since expired, XII continues to operate without any intervention by the ABC Board. ay 7, 2014 – XII submits its third renewal application. •M • May 14, 2014 – ABC Board issues order stating that because XII’s previous license has expired and its renewal application has been dismissed, it must cease and desist operations immediately. • May 21, 2014 – ABC Board reverses its May 14 decision without a hearing (and without prior notice to the ANC that it would be deliberating this issue), vacating its cease and desist order, and allowing XII to re-open and operate indefinitely while its third renewal application is pending. • May 24, 2014 – While operating under an expired license and with itsthird renewal application pending, XII is host to its second stabbing in as many months. Chief Lanier again invokes her authority under D.C. Code § 25-827 and summarily suspends XII’s liquor license. A hearing is expected before the ABC Board on Tuesday.
hearing, allowing XII to re-open). At the end of this letter is a full chronology of XII’s license renewal process. Not only are there no consequences to the licensee for missing these dates, but the ANC is essentially punished for the licensee’s failure to attend the hearing. This is due to the fact that each time the licensee re-files its application, the protest calendar is “reset,” meaning that it will take that much longer for the ANC to ever have an actual hearing before the Board regarding its objections to XII’s liquor license. In this case, XII’s original roll call hearing took place on November 12, 2013, with a status hearing to take place on December 11, 2013. With that timeline, a protest hearing would have likely taken place in early-to-mid January, 2014. However, we are now in
The Newports of Capitol Hill
May 2014, and the clock is about to start again, with XII being allowed to re-file its application. A petition date likely won’t be until June or July, meaning the ANC shouldn’t expect a hearing until the fall. In other words, it is entirely possible that the Board will not hear the ANC’s various objections to XII’s license until a full year after XII filed its original renewal application. The ABC Board has created a system that licensees appear to be actively exploiting in their favor, essentially allowing them to postpone any hearings on their activities with little to no consequence. If this is a weakness in the laws/regulations, I hope that the Council and/or Mayor’s office will investigate and determine what fixes are necessary. If this is merely a weakness on the part of the Board to act in fairness, then I hope that with enough public pressure, the Board will take steps to prevent it from happening moving forward and be a catalyst for real change at the ABC Board.
I also hope that the two recent stabbing incidents at XII, combined with XII’s utter refusal to work with the community or even follow the most basic of laws and regulations, leads to the permanent revocation of XII’s liquor license. I have seen statements from multiple leaders in our community that they believe it is time for XII to lose its license, and I hope for the community’s sake that they follow those words with actions, and we can finally see this establishment shut down. Jay Williams, Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner (6A05), Chair, ANC 6A Alcohol Beverage Licensing Committee. williamsanc6a05@gmail.com
The Newports of Capitol Hill Promoting civic pride, Buffalo NY in the 1950’s created a “Boost Buffalo” campaign. Among the suggestions was the deceptively simple notion that if each Buffalonian picked up 5 pieces of litter every day, we would have a clean city in no time.
My dad took that suggestion to heart, and applied it wherever he walked. Even when well into his 90’s, as his hearing, sight and memory failed he could be counted on to keep his block clear of litter. Continuing the tradition while walking my dogs each day I have discovered a peculiar phenomenon. Hardly a walk goes by that I do not spot at least one discarded Newport pack. Attempting more “scientific findings” I recently I photographed and documented the location of each pack I saw over a week’s time. (Yes, this is what having dogs can reduce you too.) I documented a total of 23 cigarette packs, 20 of which were Newport; 3 were Marlboros. No other brands. Earlier this week I spotted the mother-load; an entire Newport Carton! Who are these smokers who drop their empties with impunity? Why only Newport and Marlboros? Amy Fisher. amyfisher@mris.com u
June 2014 H 169
{the nose}
THE NOSE
Over the Rainbow Orange Style
I
by Anonymous
n Chocolate City’s bad old days when crack pipes littered back alleys and District’s population was in free fall, the city’s politicians began making an annual collective pilgrimage to the City of Sin to attend the International Council of Shopping Centers Convention (ICSCC). Travelling as poor supplicants, they hoped to secure advantageous matches with glamorous, big box brides, whose presence might add luster to the city’s tarnished plans for economic revitalization. Kwame ‘Titanic’ Brown, Jim ‘Back of the Envelope’ Graham, Jack ‘The Inventor of DC’ Evans, Vincent ‘The Shadow’ Gray and Michael ‘Coffee Mug’ Brown were frequent fellow flyers in the gaggle of DC penitents. The ICSCC was the venue for the deals that created the Columbia Heights Target, Ward 5’s Costco and the future Walmart at Skyland. Fast forward to the present, US Attorney Ronald ‘Slo-Mo’ Machen has deftly removed both Browns from office with his prosecutorial scalpel, while Democratic voters awarded pink slips to both Graham and Gray. Yet despite all this tumult, the District’s dance card at the 2014 ICSCC remained full. Muriel ‘What Me Worry?’ Bowser, chair of the Council’s Committee on Economic Development, and Kenyan ‘Mr. Clean’ McDuffie joined old hands, Gray, Orange and Evans. The Nose has never minded the absence of big boxes. Visits to Costco or Target have always resulted in overflowing closets stuffed with large cartons of paper towels and toilet paper. The only necessity that has taken The Nose to Walmart or Circuit City is the once in-a-decade acquisition of a flat screen TV. In the age of Amazon Prime, all this and more can be delivered directly to his doorstep. As for Petco, The Nose’s redbone hound prefers to shop in small boutiques. No MacGyver, Nose keeps company with the expert employees of Frager’s Hardware rather than the wage slaves at Home Depot. Clearly, The Nose’s taste is at variance with many of the esteemed members of the city council. The Nose wonders if the legation found time to pitch Orange’s extensive legislative plan for the redevelopment of the RFK Stadium site. Supported by Evans, Marion ‘Mayor for Life’ Barry, Anita ‘Chocolate City’ Bonds, Graham, Yvette ‘Independent’ Alexander and Evans, the plan includes a fantastical laundry list: • two nationally recognized department stores; • a new domed stadium with double the capacity; • a District-themed sports store; • one music venue honoring Marvin Gaye and another honoring Chuck Brown; • a high-end restaurant;
• • • • • • • • • • • • •
a five-star hotel with at least 400 rooms; a five-star boutique hotel with 150 rooms; a movie theater and boutique cinema; low income housing; retail and a grocery store; a food truck vending area; a 24-hour fitness center; a beer garden; family chain restaurants; the transformation of Langston Golf Course into a PGA championship level operation with an associated interactive DC Golf Museum; a water park; a motion picture soundstage with associated production facilities; and ‘at least one’ independently owned restaurant with an obligatory adjoining wine bar.
Is it possible that Orange missed something, The Nose wonders? Perhaps, had he listened during the mayoral campaign, he would have added three more important alternatives: • a low-barrier homeless shelter for families; • recreational fields to accommodate the District’s burgeoning stroller set; • replacements for the District’s crumbling public housing units; • an emergency care facility. Here is a famous melody from the Wizard of Oz, Orange style: Somewhere out in Vegas in a casino way up high There’s a scheme that I witnessed once in a PowerPoint lullaby Somewhere out in Vegas skies are blue And all the World Class developments I legislate really do come true Someday I’ll wish upon a star Wake up in a casino with the District laid before me When Dorothy Brazile’s opposition melts like lemon drops High above Hill East’s chimney tops That’s where you’ll find me If Elvis can be reincarnated in Vegas, Why oh, oh why can’t I?” “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas,” a famous wit once observed. It a shame that this rubric has not held true for District politicians. Have a comment for The Nose? Email thenose@hillrag.com. u
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