Mid City DC Magazine – January 2023 of your publication

Ribbon Cutting at (long-awaited) Northwest One. Photo: Chief Photographer for Mayor Bowser Khalid Naji-Allah

ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER AT THE KC

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has always been a treasured part of the Kennedy Center experience since they opened their doors in 1971. The company is a powerful incubator of pure talent, and you’ll watch as Ailey’s newest dancers showcase their skills amidst the virtuosity of the most tenured dancers. From Feb. 7 to 12, audiences will experience mixed repertory programs of signature Ailey classics and new works from the most dynamic choreographers of today—and each performance ends with the soul-stirring masterpiece Revelations. $49 to $169. kennedy-center.org.

Dario Calmese

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

MOSAIC’S “BARS AND MEASURES”

AT THE ATLAS

Eric, a classical pianist, and Bilal, a jazz musician, are brothers by blood, unit ed through a love of music but separated by prison bars. When Bilal’s trial reveals hidden secrets and unexpected truths, the young men are forced to ask whether their love, and music, can withstand betrayal? Inspired by true events, award-winning playwright and breakbeat poet Idris Goodwin’s acclaimed Bars and Measures is a moving play with music that reflects on faith, family, and politics with equal parts imagination and intensity. $50 to $64. Mosaic’s Bars and Measures is at The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE, from Feb. 2 to 26. mosaictheater.org.

Bars and Measures playwright Idris Goodwin

THE UNITED UKRAINIAN BALLET MAKES US DEBUT AT THE KC

The United Ukrainian Ballet is comprised of about sixty Ukrainian dancers, most of whom fled their homeland to escape the Russian invasion. They are based in the Hague whose municipality repurposed the old Royal Conservatory Building, with five large dance studios, as a refugee center. On Feb. 1 to 5, this remarkable company of dancers unites in a powerful interpretation of Giselle, specifically created for them by world-renowned choreographer Alexei Ratmansky. Don’t miss a moving interpretation of one of the greatest romantic ballets of all time, performed by world-class artists united by the tragedy of war and an ardent hope for the future. $29 to $159. kennedy-center.org.

Choreographer Alexei Ratmanski’s Giselle is at the Kennedy Center’s Opera House from Feb. 1 to 5. Photo: Altin Kaftira

SPIRIT IN THE DARK: RELIGION IN BLACK MUSIC, ACTIVISM AND POPULAR CULTURE AT THE NMAAHC

Through never-before-seen objects from the museum’s permanent collection, alongside rare photographs and stories featured in Ebony and Jet magazines, this exhibition explores ways in which religion is a part of the cultural fabric of the African American experience. It includes photographs of several prominent African Americans, such as Aretha Franklin, Duke Ellington, Marvin Gaye, Angela Davis, Malcolm X, Maya Angelou, Reverend Ike and Jesse Jackson, examining religion’s impact on their lives and the larger Black community. “Spirit in the Dark” will be on view through November 2023. nmaahc.si.edu.

Photo:

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

“TWO JEWS WALK INTO A WAR…”

AT THEATER J

Ishaq and Zeblyan are the last remaining Jews in Afghanistan. They share the only remaining synagogue that has not been destroyed by the Taliban. They share a vital mission to repopulate the Jewish community in Kabul. And they hate each other. Can this cantankerous couple commit to one incredible act of faith to keep their community alive without killing one another first? Part The Odd Couple and part Waiting for Godot, Two Jews Walk Into a War… is a ripped-from-the-headlines, modern day vaudeville full of schtick, sorrow, and survival. $44.99 to $64.99. “Two Jews Walk into a War…” is on stage at Theater J, 1529 16th St. NW. theaterj.org.

FOLGER CONSORT’S “SING MY STORY: TROUBADOUR SONGS”

The troubadours flourished in 12th and 13th-century southern France, composing both melodies and poetry in Old Provençal, and establishing the forms and conventions of lyric love songs in the vernacular languages of Europe. In these concerts, the Folger Consort performs songs in their original language as well as rhyming English translations by Robert Kehew, along with lively instrumental dances featuring medieval fiddles, plucked strings, winds and percussion. On Friday, Feb. 3, 8 p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 4, 4 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Feb. 5, 2:30 p.m. at St. Mark’s 301 A St. SE, Folger Consort performs medieval French troubadour songs in Provençal and English translation. $45. folger.edu.

MLK MEMORIAL SOUTH WALL INSCRIPTION

Our Struggle for Justice: A Day of Action at the NPG

On

Jan. 22, 1

4 p.m.,

Enjoy a meet and greet with DC activists and partake in art activism activities. Free admission. The National Portrait Gallery is at Eighth and G streets, NW. npg.si.edu.

ENTERTAINMENT NATION AT THE AMERICAN HISTORY MUSEUM

On Dec. 9, the National Museum of American History unveiled the new permanent exhibition Entertainment Nation/Nación del espectáculo. Anchoring the Culture Wing through iconic objects from the museum’s collection, Entertainment Nation/Nación del espectáculo showcases how Americans have long used entertainment to both elicit delight and understand different viewpoints. The museum, open daily 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (except Christmas, is on the National Mall at Constitution Avenue, between 12th and 14th streets, NW. americanhistory.si.edu.

Judy Garland’s Ruby Slippers from 1939 movie “The Wizard of Oz.”

Photo: Jaclyn Nash, Courtesy of the National Museum of American History.

Sunday,

to

together with National Portrait Gallery’s partner Made by Us, commemorate Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday while honoring his social justice work and service. Be empowered and inspired by local social justice partner organizations and community groups during this day of community building, upliftment and action for young adults. Become more actively involved in important causes, hear enlightening talks and attend tours of the permanent exhibition “The Struggle for Justice.”

Photo: Brittany Diliberto

MAKING THE MODERN BOOK SYMPOSIUM

On Thursday, Jan. 19, 2:30 to 6:30 p.m., join artists, scholars, and specialists in the Library of Congress for a free, in-person symposium celebrating the donation of the Aramont Library. In private hands for over 40 years, the Aramont Library is comprised of 1700 literary first editions, illustrated books, exhibition bindings, finely bound author collections, and illustrated books by some of the most important artists of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, including: Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, Joan Miro, Dorothea Tanning and Max Ernst. The collection also includes first editions of landmarks in Western literature by authors such as Ernest Hemingway, Oscar Wilde, and Virginia Woolf, as well as three variant first edition copies of James Joyce’s Ulysses, one of which includes a very rare schema and annotated anatomical figure describing Joyce’s novel. The symposium is in the Thomas Jefferson Building Coolidge Auditorium, 10 First St. SE. loc.gov.

IN SERIES: THE ORDERING OF MOSES

On Saturdays, Feb. 4 and 11, 6:30 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 5, 4:30 p.m., in a DC “surprise sacred venue,” IN Series (Opera that speaks. Theater that sings.) turns to the nexus of art, faith, and justice with an embodying of Nathaniel Dett’s tremendous oratorio The Ordering of Moses. Performed as a community music and theater ritual, surrounding the audience with action and sound, this performance, built on the tradition of the African American spiritual, will redefine both the artistic and the spiritual experience. Composed in 1932, the piece would become the central touring work in the repertoire of DC’s National Negro Opera Company, founded by Mary Cardwell Dawson, for whom IN Series’ Cardwell Dawson Artist Fellowship is named. $35 to $55. Inseries.org.

FIRST LADY OF SONG: ELLA FITZGERALD AT SIGNATURE

The definition of an icon, Ella Fitzgerald was the most popular female jazz singer in the United States for over 50 years. From Jan. 31 to Feb. 5, celebrate her phenomenal range, syncopated style, and heart of gold with a swinging cabaret bursting with her incredible songbook including “A-Tisket, A-Tasket,” “Someone to Watch Over Me,” “The

more. $30 to $38.

THE PASSION OF MARY CARDWELL DAWSON

She trained hundreds of African American youth to sing. She founded the longest-running, all-Black opera company. She organized opera guilds in the country’s biggest cities. Mary Cardwell Dawson’s dream to bring opera music to African American audiences came true—and it changed the future of opera. The story starts in Washington, DC in 1943, where the company is set to perform on a floating barge to evade racially segregated venues. But when bad weather threatens—pushing the performance to a segregated performance hall—Mary Cardwell Dawson must find a way forward. On Friday, Jan. 20, 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Jan. 22, 2 and 5 p.m., The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson makes its highly anticipated mainstage premiere to celebrate the remarkable founder of the historic and groundbreaking National Negro Opera Company, established in 1941. $39 to $99. kennedy-center.org.

For this performance, IN Series collaborates with DC’s own Heritage Signature Chorale, the nation’s premiere ensemble celebrating and interpreting the classical spiritual. DC artist Richshaad Ryan creates epic canvases telling at once the classical biblical story, the American story of the quest for equality, and a Washington, DC story of the journey towards justice through faith. Photo: Courtesy of The Heritage Signature Chorale

The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson stars acclaimed mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves in the title role. Photo: Karli Cadel Photography

Nearness of You,” “Blue Skies” and many

Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, VA. sigtheatre.org.

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

WASHINGTON DC TRAVEL & ADVENTURE SHOW

On Saturday, Feb. 4, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday, Feb. 5, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Washington Convention Center, you’ll discover thousands of vacation options from the top destinations, tour operators and travel providers from around the globe, and meet with travel experts who are on-hand to help you plan and book your trip. With four on-floor theaters, you’ll receive the most up to date travel tips and advice, with the chance to meet your favorite travel celebrities. Plus, you’ll have access to show-only travel savings, trip giveaways and show-only deals. One-day advance sale admission for adults is $11; two-day advance sale is $18. Kids 16 and under, free. travelshows.com/shows/washingtondc.

Travel Channel’s Samantha Brown will make an appearance at the Washington DC Travel & Adventure Show.

THE 34TH ANNUAL BLACK FILM FESTIVAL AT MLK LIBRARY

Each Tuesday in February, 3 to 9 p.m., MLK Library presents a selection of great Black films and short documentaries before each film to celebrate and showcase Black art and life in America. Here’s the lineup: Feb. 7, 3 p.m., James Baldwin-The Price of a Ticket, 5 p.m., Emancipation; Feb. 14, 3 p.m., Strange Fruit, 5 p.m. Lemonade, and Woman King; Feb. 21, 3 p.m., Miles of Smiles, Years of Struggle-The First African American Trade Union, 5 p.m., I am not Your Negro and 13th; Feb. 28, 5 p.m. Nat Turner-A Troublesome Property and Black Panther-Wakanda Forever. Movies are free and are shown in the auditorium. Feature films start at 5 p.m. MLK Library is at 901 G St. NW. dclibrary.org/mlk.

THE CYCLONE” AT ARENA

VOICES OF MISSISSIPPI AT STRATHMORE

“Voices of Mississippi” is an immersive multimedia experience and concert event that celebrates the people and art of the southern blues, gospel, and storytelling traditions. Based on the 2019 Grammy-winning box set of the same name, “Voices of Mississippi,” the program features musical performances by notable Mississippi artists, including Bobby Rush, Sharde Thomas, and Luther and Cody Dickinson of the North Mississippi Allstars. The show includes fascinating personal accounts as well as archival film and images from Dr. William Ferris. $24 to $68. Voices of Mississippi is at The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Ln., North Bethesda, on Saturday, Feb. 4, 8 p.m. strathmore.org.

Luther and Cody Dickinson of the North Mississippi Allstars

“RIDE

Part comedy, part tragedy and wholly unexpected, this wildly imaginative story delivers surprises at every turn. The lives of six teenagers from a Canadian chamber choir are cut short in a freak accident aboard a roller coaster. A mechanical fortuneteller invites each to tell their story of a life interrupted, offering the chance to come to terms with their fates. At once quirky and smart, edgy and beautiful, Ride the Cyclone ultimately reveals the resilience of the human spirit in spite of senseless tragedy. $66 to $115. Ride the Cyclone is at Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SE., from Jan. 13 to Feb. 19. arenastage.org.

Winston Duke, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

CLARK AT LAPORTA’S IN ALEXANDRIA

FOLGER’S THE READING ROOM (NEW PLAYS DEBUT)

On January 19 to 21, Folger Theatre kicks-off the new year with The Reading Room, a new play festival of four premier readings inspired by and in conversation with the plays of William Shakespeare. Each reading will be followed by a conversation with the playwrights, directors, members of the press and scholars. The festival is at the Lutheran Church of the Reformation, 212 East Capitol St. NE, across the street from the Folger. Bilingual Hamlet is on Thursday, Jan. 19, 7:30 p.m.; Our Verse in Time to Come, Friday, Jan. 20, 7:30 p.m.; Julius X, Saturday, Jan. 20, 2 p.m.; and A Room in the Castle, Saturday, Jan. 21, 7:30 p.m. $25 for a festival pass. A $50 all-access pass includes three additional in-depth discussions of theatre, Shakespeare, and adapting new works featuring festival playwrights, directors, and actors. folger.edu.

UMPHREY’S MCGEE AT THE 9:30 CLUB

In the twenty-four years since eclectic improv-rock band Umphrey’s McGee formed, their sound has been an amalgamation of genres, moods, and tempos, effortlessly flowing from one feeling to the next throughout an album or concert—or sometimes within a singular song. Their fourteen-song album, Asking For A Friend, feels like a fresh statement from a group of world-class musicians reapproaching their craft with a new lens. But long-time fans will be happy to know that the Umphrey’s McGee they know and love is still very much present, just more refined. On Thursday, Jan. 12, 7 p.m. and Friday, Jan. 13, 8 p.m., enjoy the Umphrey’s McGee 25th Anniversary Tour at the 9:30 Club, 815 V St. NW. $45. 930.com.

CHAKA KHAN AT NATIONAL HARBOR

Songwriter, actor, author, philanthropist, entrepreneur and activist, Chaka Khan has influenced generations of recording artists. She has the rare ability to sing in seven music genres, including R&B, pop, rock, gospel, country, world music and classical. She is revered by millions of fans as well as her peers for her timeless, classic and unmatched signature music style and ability. Witness her performance in person on Sunday night, Jan. 15, 8 to 10 p.m., at The Theater at MGM National Harbor, 101 MGM National Ave. National Harbor, MD. $69.50 to $235. nationalharbor.com.

SHARON

Sharon Clark began her professional career with the Bottle Caps doing promotional work for the Coca Cola Company. The other “Bottle Cap” was her twin sister, Sharee. She has since performed at such jazz and non-jazz venues as Blues Alley, the National Press Club and Twins Lounge in Washington, D.C. and Sweet Basel in New York City. Equally adept with jazz, blues, and gospel, Clark has a husky but mellow voice and is a fine interpreter of lyrics. Listing Sarah Vaughan, Johnny Hartman, Ella Fitzgerald as musical influences, Clark appears at LaPortas Restaurant, 1600 Duke St., Alexandria, on Saturdays, 7 to 11 p.m. laportas.net.

Sharon Clark

Photo: Tara Tracer

AI Letson, Lauren Gunderson, Karen Ann Daniels, Malik Work, Emily Lyon, Reynaldo Piniella

JUNIOR H, ALTO LINAJE AND COMPA STEVE AT THE FILLMORE

Junior H, Alto Linaje and Compa Steve are performing on Friday, Jan. 20, 8 p.m., (daoors at 7 p.m.), at the Fillmore Silver Spring, 8656 Colesville Rd., Silver Spring, MD, on their Junior H – Sad Boyz 5 Life Tour 2022. The tour is named after Junior - H’s 2021 chart-topping album $ad Boyz 4 Life, via Rancho Humilde, which debuted at No. 1 on the Regional Mexican Albums chart. General admission, standing room only. $42 to $55. livenation.com.

KITCHEN 101: KNIFE SKILLS AT HILL CENTER

Learning how to properly yield a knife is key to cooking great meals safely. Do you want to learn how to chop vegetables like a pro or learn the proper uses for certain knives? On Feb. 1 and 13 and March 1; 6 to 7:30 p.m., join Chef Wendi James in Hill Center’s kitchen as she teaches the essentials of knife skills for beginners. Learn the techniques of proper knife selection, care, basic cuts and proper form. The chef will guide you through breaking down common vegetables, while you chop alongside or simply take notes. $45. Learn knife skills at Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. hillcenterdc.org.

SMITHSONIAN ASSOCIATES’ ON-LOCATION (SIX WEEK) PHOTOGRAPHY COURSE

On Sundays, Jan. 22 to Feb. 26, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., learn to capture this vibrant capital city and sharpen your way of thinking about shooting outdoors in a course that focuses on deploying a minimal amount of equipment and a lot of fresh perspective. Students learn to take better photos by taking fewer of them and keeping post-processing to a minimum. Emphasis is placed on what happens before the shutter release is pressed, and on truly pre-visualizing the photograph. A basic understanding of photography is required, along with a camera that allows for adjustments to the aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and exposure compensation. Participants provide their own cameras. Field trips may require considerable walking. $225. Registration ends on Jan. 20. smithsonianassociates.org.

“THE LIFESPAN OF A FACT” AT KEEGAN

Jim Fingal is a fresh-out-of-Harvard fact checker for a prominent but sinking New York magazine. John D’Agata is a talented writer with a transcendent essay about the suicide of a teenage boy—an essay that could save the magazine from collapse. When Jim is assigned to fact check D’Agata’s essay, the two come head-to-head in a comedic yet gripping battle over facts versus truth. $50. The Lifespan of a Fact is at the Keegan Theater, 1742 Church St. NW, from Jan. 28 to Feb. 25. keegantheatre.com.

Photo by Joe Yablonsky on location.

Rosita Revealed

On a chilly Friday night, my husband Peter and I had attended an art opening at the Joan Hisaoka Healing Arts Gallery on U St. NW. Afterwards, we sought out dinner nearby at El Secreto de Rosita, 1624 U St. NW. The jam-packed restaurant was humming. The host politely told us the restaurant was fully booked. But there were two seats at the marble-topped bar.

It was too cold for margaritas or even Pisco sours, the potent Peruvian national drink. Instead, we perused the wine list which offered vintages from Spain, Portugal, Argentina and Uruguay. We settled for glasses of red and white from Spain.

We were tempted by the ocopa scallop appetizer, assorted ceviches, squid ink rice with prawns, scallops and mahi mahi. We also considered arroz chaufa—a popular Peruvian dish influenced by 19th-century Chinese immigrants to Peru. But I opted for grilled octopus in garlicky Creole sauce. Escorted by pureed purple potatoes, the cephalopod tentacles were moist and tender.

Peter chose aji de gallina. The dish consisted of shredded white meat chicken draped over savory rice and potatoes, napped with aji amarillo (yellow pepper) sauce. The crowning glory was a hardboiled egg slice.

Rosita’s secret? Excellent victuals, drinks, lots of ambience and positive energy. For hours, more information and reservations—strongly recommended—visit www.elsecretoderosita.com.

Insatiable

by Celeste McCall

Retro Rocket Return

Remember Johnny Rockets, the circa-1950s retro burger chain? It’s back, at 1501 Rhode Island Ave. NW, in Logan Circle. Decades ago, we had a Johnny Rockets in Union Station’s lower level near the food court. There were other outposts as well, including one in Georgetown which closed in 2020. Now, thanks to parent company Fat Brands Inc., a global franchising company, Johnny Rockets has resurfaced.

Logan Circle’s shiny new Johnny Rockets sports its signature black-and-white tiled floors, bright red booths, Washington, DC themed posters, and Motown music. To drink: sodas, draft beers, spiked and unspiked milkshakes. Those famous cookedto-order burgers (now including plant-based) and fries share menu space with spicy wings, grilled chicken breast, Philly cheese steaks, BLTs, chili and salads, plus a kids’ menu. Logan’s Johnny Rockets is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For more information, visit www.johnnyrockets.com.

Market Watch

In Union Market’s bustling food hall, Chef Alex McCoy is unveiling Bar Boheme. Due to open soon—if not already—Bar Boheme is slinging more than a dozen European-style sandwiches stuffed with freshly sliced and cured meats and other goodies.

The rotating sandwich selections are packed with British salt beef, spicy English mustard and pickles. You’ll also find house-made pork rillettes, grilled Thai herbal sausage, mortadella, porchetta (Italian-style roast pork roll), Swedish meatballs and much more.

But diners cannot live by bread alone. Heading La Boheme’s full bar listing are interesting foreign and domestic wines, beers, ciders and snazzy cocktails. (Chef McCoy also operates Adams Morgan sandwich

and burger hotspot Lucky Buns.) Located at 1509 Fifth St. NE, Union Market is open daily. For more information, visit www.unionmarketdc.com.

Balkan Expansion

Any day now, look for the Shaw outpost of Ambar restaurant at 1547 Seventh St. NW.  Ambar is known for its savory grilled lamb sausage, stuffed cabbage, cheese pies, beet tzatziki and baklava. Fans will find these favorites at the new location, along with Ambar’s signature all-you-can eat brunch and a second-story rakia cocktail bar. (Rakia is a potent, fruit-based spirit popular in the Balkan region.) Guests will sip that and other beverages under a retractable roof. The Shaw offspring will be Ambar’s third location; others are at 523 Eighth St. SE (Barracks Row) and in Clarendon (Arlington). For updates and more information, visit www.ambarrestaurant.com/shaw.

French Point of Interest

Chef Nicholas Stefanelli—who brought us Officina (Wharf and Downtown), Masseria (Union Market) and Philotimo (temporarily closed), has done it again. His latest culinary enterprise is Le Clou, 222 M St. NE. For this modern spin on a French brasserie, Stefanelli taps his classical Gallic training. Le Clou, by the way, is roughly translated as “point of interest.” Le Clou’s chef de cuisine is Nico Cezar, who cooked with Stefanelli at Masseria.

Situated off the lobby of The Morrow Washington DC Curio Collection by Hilton, Le Clou seats 75 in a gilded dining room dotted with swirled marble tables and sleek leather booths. Guests will dine on sweetbreads with black truffles, seafood towers, Hudson Valley foie gras, escargot, frog legs, trout and steak frites. For a splurge, a côte de beouf 28-ounce bone-in ribeye served with Fourme d’Ambert cheese is just $148.

There’s still more:

At El Secreto de Rosita (U Street corridor), a bartender pours a Pisco sour, the Peruvian national drink.

Escorted by pureed purple potatoes with Creole sauce, Rosita’s octopus is moist and tender.

Pork belly-stuffed cabbage is a specialty at Ambar, Barracks Row ‘s Balkan restaurant which is unveiling an outpost in Shaw.

A cheese trolley will slice a dozen choices each day. A custom Champagne cart will roam the dining room and adjacent Lobby Lounge, pouring a dozen bubbly options by the glass. For Le Clou’s hours and more information, visit www.themorrowhotel.com.

Coming Soon

In the Atlas District, Hiraya, a Filipino restaurant, is headed for 1248-1250 H St. NE. Don’t rush over there right away; Hiraya is not opening until spring. (In the meantime, you can still visit Hiraya at e Block Food Hall downtown.) For the future enterprise, Chef Paolo Dungca is joining Juan and Jeremy Canlas, the father-son duo behind local chain Supreme Barbeque and Auntea Boba.

Hiraya’s H Street restaurant will showcase a separate menu and matching atmosphere on each oor. e casual rst level will serve Filipino pastries, breakfast sandwiches, lattes brewed with ube (purple yam) and teas from Auntea Boba. You’ll also nd silog, a Filipino morning staple made with sinangag (garlic fried rice), itlog (egg), and longganisa sausage. Upstairs will serve à la carte small plates to start, eventually adding prix- xe options. For updates, visit www.hirayadc.com. ◆

Shaw Main Streets is a designated DC Main Streets program

is funded in part by the Department of Small and Local Business Development, Muriel E. Bowser, Mayor.

At The Movies Two

End-of-Year Oscar Contenders

by Mike Canning

Stephen, a decent lad, warms to Hilary but doesn’t go too far as she mentors him about the work and shows him around town. He later finds companionship with the sweet Ruby (Crystal Clarke). Ellis, seeking to put his house on the map, dreams of a sprightly restoration and a splashy premiere with the 1981 hit “Chariots of Fire,” with local celebrities attending.

When the premiere arrives, Hilary begins to lose it (her troubled mental state has been hinted at earlier). The film’s resolution is gently told.

women from an isolated Mennonite colony (location not specified) grappling to reconcile their harsh reality with their abiding faith after it is revealed that multiple men from their isolated colony have drugged and raped the community’s women at night for years.

Eight of their number gather in the hayloft of a barn to argue about what to do about this realization. An odd setting for a movie drama, perhaps, but made compelling (mostly) by an octet of fine actors (the film is rated “PG-13,” runs 144 minutes, and arrives in DC-area cinemas in early January).

Empire of Light

Writer-director Sam Mendes’s latest offering is a period drama about the staff of a English resort town’s movie house with themes including mental illness and the growing racial violence of the time, told within a sweet background of cinematic nostalgia. Its strengths include its superb cinematography, a delicate score, and a fine ensemble cast led by Olivia Colman, a virtual sure-bet for an Oscar nomination. It is a worthy follow-up to Mendes’ last picture from 2019, “1917 ” (the film, released in cinemas December 9, is rated “R” and runs 115 minutes).

The plot turns around Hilary (Colman), the dour manager of the Empire Cinema, a traditional Art Deco house in a seaside town in the south of England which has seen better days but purrs along showing a mix of reruns and first runs during early 1980’s. Hilary is lonely, going through the motions at her job, and starved for affection. She occasionally goes to dance classes, has dutiful sex with her married boss, Mr. Ellis (Colin Firth), and leads a lifeless routine. We see her brighten for a chance at love when a new Black employee, the handsome Stephen (Michael Ward) joins the staff, and she looks for ways to get close to him. The Empire crew members include the projectionist Norman (Toby Jones), the young usher Janine (Hannah Onslow) and the veteran usher Neil (Tom Brooke)

“Empire of Light” is dominated by Colman, currently on a string of fine performances beginning with “The Favourite” from 2018. Here she does unfussy modesty to perfection but also can explode when necessary. Young Ward is a cool, thoughtful customer who shows real delicacy in his relationship with Hilary. Toby Jones adds a grace note as a passionate film fan, and the usually cool Firth is here an aging swine.

Mendes paints the town carefully, its look and spaces clearly defined, especially the theater itself, with its spiffy front and lobby created by production designer Mark Tildesley, while the veteran cinematographer Roger Deakins lights everything with clarity and class. This is a nostalgia trip that merits a visit.

Women Talking

The one-liner—“Do we stay or do we go?” could be a crude set-up for the absorbing new film by writer-director Sarah Polley. A stark but compelling drama set in 2010, it is based on a contemporary incident that happened in a religious community. It features eight

The setting opens briskly but with little background information. It is not clear what people in the colony do for a living, although it appears to be farming. The exact nature of the abuses is never specified. What is learned is what the women discuss for the two-hour run time. Viewers will see the colony’s inhabitants in what seems a timeless setting—with the women wearing garb out of “Witness” (1986)—modestly dressed but with searing material to discuss. The photography is restrained, with a muted color scheme (shot by Luc Montpellier) just this side of high-contrast black-and white.

Chief protagonists include a fine Greek chorus of women actors: Rooney Mara as Ona, torn about the choices they must face, Claire Foy as Salome, a vociferous voice against the criminal menfolk, Jesse Buckley as Mariche, almost as outspoken but willing to listen to arguments, and Judith Ivey as Agata,

From left to right: Michael Ward and Olivia Colman in a pensive mood in “Empire of Light.”

Photo by Parisa Taghizadeh, courtesy of Searchlight Pictures

From left: Judith Ivey (as Agata ) comforts the troubled Salome (Claire Foy) in “Women Talking.” Picture courtesy of Orion Pictures

who provides historical perspective and the presence of an elderly Catholic nun. e only signi cant male role is August (Ben Wishaw), the shy school teacher who has agreed to take notes of the session.

As stated above, Polley’s script reveals little information about the scandal that has riven the community; you piece it together from the women’s exchange. e setting of their talk fest is narrow, even a little claustrophobic. e to-and-fro of the debate is intense and gripping (giving each actress a chance to shine), yet, also somewhat repetitive. Will they or won’t they vote to leave the colony...?

Polley comes with a long lmmaking pedigree in her native Canada. She began acting as a child and her breakthrough role came in “ e Sweet Hereafter” (1997), playing a teenage survivor of a bus crash, and in the TV series “Slings and Arrows” (2004-2006). Among the dozens of feature lms she appeared in through 2010 (when she turned to directing), some of the most prominent included “Guinevere” (1998), “Go” (1999), and “My Life Without Me” (20003).

Her directing debut was “Away from Her” (2006), a sympathetic study of a woman su ering with dementia, “Take is Waltz” (2010), a delicate lm about a love triangle, and “Stories We Tell” (2012), a revealing documentary about her own family’s past. is makes “Women Talking” her rst feature in ten years, and one of her best. At age 43, we can only hope that Polley has years, if not decades, of work ahead of her.

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

Shaw Commemorates Carter G. Woodson’s Birthday

The National Park Service (NPS) and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) celebrated the 147th birthday of one of Shaw’s most famous past residents, Dr. Carter G. Woodson, on Saturday afternoon, December 17. Their annual commemoration was special this year since 2022 was the 100th anniversary of Dr. Woodson’s purchase of the home on Ninth Street that served as the headquarters of ASLAH and Associated Publishers, which was the center of

Shaw Streets

by Pleasant Mann

his work spreading the word on Afro-American history. Held within the original boundaries of the Shaw neighborhood at Paul Lawrence Dunbar High School, where Woodson was a teacher, the event featured a panel discussion on Dr. Woodson’s impact on education. Entertainment was provided by singers from Dunbar and the Kiamsha Youth Empowerment Organization, along with jazz performed by the DC Strings.

At the end of the program, NPS Ranger Vince Vaise outlined how the third and final phase of the establishment of the Woodson Home National Historic Site will be completed by the fall of 2023.

The site will include the original Woodson home, plus two adjoining row homes. A full exhibition outlining Dr. Woodson’s work and the accolades he received during his life will be a highlight.

Dr. Woodson’s office will be reconstructed and renovated to serve as a major focus of the historic home. The completed site will also have space for NPS to manage the site, as well as serving as the headquarters of ASALH, the organization Dr. Woodson formed. The NPS will also sponsor tours of the Woodson site as early as February 2023, including a walking tour with a Woodson reenactor and a Shaw historian, Alexander Padro, to give an

Events DC CEO Angie Gates offers her finger as a perch for a magician’s dove at the Winter Wonderland event. Photo by Alexander Padro

idea of the environment that Dr. Woodson lived and worked in.

LGBTQ+ Center Moves to Shaw

For a number of years, Shaw was considered the District’s Gayborhood. But after redevelopment pushed out the Town Danceboutique, Shaw’s gay luster started to diminish. at may change with the announcement that the DC Center for the LGBT Community and the Capital Pride Alliance will move their headquarters to 1827 Wiltberger St. NW. e move was supported by a $1 million grant from the DC Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development.

e new center will be larger than their former space and will allow other LGBT groups to sublease space there, with the Wanda Alston Foundation, Rainbow Families and G3 already on board. ere will be an expansion of services at the new center, including dedicated therapy rooms, a larger food pantry, dedicated wellness spaces, an expanded state-of-the-art cyber lounge and a larger Community Closet for underhoused/displaced community members. e new center will be completed by mid-2023.

Events DC Holds Winter Wonderland

Events DC held their annual Winter Wonderland celebration for the holidays on Saturday, December 17 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. e event has been held since 1998, but this year marked the return of in-person festivities following the COVID-19 pandemic. Hundreds of children and their families from the neighborhood surrounding the convention center were treated to free refreshments, prize drawings, and activities like face painting,

• Is your business too small for a full-time accounting department but too large to handle your monthly accounting needs efficiently?

• Dou you spend countless hours balancing your books, invoicing, and following up on collecting payments?

• Do you need help managing payroll with an evolving team?

• Do you need help with QuickBooks?

• Are your accounting systems streamlined and efficient?

• Would your strategic planning be enhanced with the input and unique perspective of a Chief Financial Officer (CFO)?

• Are you a company owner or CEO looking for a part time CFO or Controller?

Shaw is Still the Place to Come to Eat, Drink and be Merry

Brent Kroll, the mind behind Shaw’s elevated wine bar Maxwell Park, has opened a new bar called Pop (2108 Vermont Avenue NW). Pop is a “fizz bar” devoted to high class bubbly wines and exotic canned cocktails. There is also an adventurous food menu, including fried half chicken with nuoc cham sauce and a Pop Burger with curly fries and animal sauce. Coming soon is Gramophone (647 Florida Avenue NW), a new two-level lounge that focuses on Disco, Lounge and Disco House music.

Other Shaw establishments have gotten attention recently. Doro Soul Food (1819 Seventh Street NW) was declared one of the nation’s Most Exciting New Restaurants in the November Bon Appetit magazine. They concluded that chef Elias Taddesse brings together “his Ethiopian heritage, his love for American soul food and his fine dining background all through the vehicle of fried chicken.” Virginia Senator Mark Warner decided to hold another Bipartisan Italian Dinner at Shaw’s San Lorenzo restaurant on December 14. This year, the group, made up of 10 moderate Democratic and Republican senators, had to brave the security barriers and checkpoints surrounding the U.S.-African Leaders Summit locking down the neighborhood. u

pictures with Santa Claus and costumed holiday characters and performances by a strolling magician. Each pre-registered child also got an age and gender appropriate present from Events DC before they left.

Parcel 42 Building Celebrates Topping Off

Dantes Partners and Davis Construction celebrated the topping off of their project on Parcel 42 (1707 Seventh Street NW) December

14. Construction workers and guests took time off to enjoy a catered lunch during the event. When the building is finished in the fourth quarter of 2023, it will have 110 units of luxury affordable housing, with 108 of the units being restricted to lower income tenants. There will also be 1,800 square feet of retail on the Seventh Street side of the building.

The view from the Parcel 42 building, to be completed in 2023. Photo by Alexander Padro

Brent Kroll opens Pop bar on Vermont Avenue. Photo by Pleasant Mann

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6E held its monthly meeting for December 2022 on Tuesday evening, December 6. Due to the restrictions on public meetings caused by the Coronavirus crisis, the meeting was held as a virtual conference. Commission Chair Michael Eichler (6E01) called the meeting to order with Rachelle Nigro (6E04, Vice Chair/Acting Treasurer), Patrick Parlej (6E05), and Kevin Rogers (6E07) in attendance. Alex Lopez (6E02, Secretary) entered the meeting later. There was a quorum to conduct official business.

Police Service Area (PSA) Reports

Captain Roth of the First District reported that overall crime was down 30 percent from the same point the previous year, but there have been problems with robberies. In one instance, there were three or four robberies within nine minutes. There was also the robbery of a dry cleaners at 400 K Street, NW, where the suspects were apprehended. The captain identified the First District’s priorities as reducing robberies and motor vehicle thefts. The police are trying to limit double parking to prevent carjackings.

Captain Moore of the Third Police District noted that there was a shooting at Fifth and M Streets, NW, where the perpetrator was caught. There was also an armed carjacking where the vehicle was later stopped, and the perpetrators charged with unauthorized use of a vehicle. Other incidents included a robbery of a down jacket from a Dunbar student at 460 N Street, NW, a car robbery at 1646 Third Street, NW, and a Louis Vuitton shopping bag with a purse inside stolen at 1739 Seventh Street, NW. Moore also said that there were currently three police foot beats in Truxton Circle and lower Shaw.

Parcel 42 Park

Developers Dantes Partners came to the ANC to present their plans for a park at their apartment project on Parcel 42 on the corner of Seventh and R Streets. Part of the parcel, which originally was District property, includes Lot 803, which is a small sliver of land separated by an alley from the main site. The developers decided to turn this

ANC 6E

by Pleasant Mann

lot into a park for the residents of the apartment building and the community.

Plans are to have most of the lot taken up with landscaping and a walkway. The park will have a sculpture, entitled “Steel I Rise,” designed by a local artist. Behind the sculpture will be a feature wall, displaying quotes from prominent people connected to the neighborhood.

The issue of who and what would be quoted became an issue. The developer did not want an involved process to determine what went on the feature wall because of the time it would take. A representative of the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development joined the conversation to say that her office wanted some evidence that the plans were supported by the community. She hoped the ANC could pass a resolution support the plans for the park. A motion for the Commission to support the plans was put on the floor but it did not receive a second. The developer promised to return to the Commission in January 2023 after the quotes had been selected with community input so that the ANC could approve the final plans for the park and its feature wall.

Alcoholic Beverage Licensing Committee (ABC)

The ABC presented the following license requests to the commission.

District Champagne, 1301 Ninth Street, NW. Request for a new license for a liquor store specializing in high-end and sparkling wines. ABC Chair Alexander Padro noted that the business had already completed a settlement agreement with the ANC. Commissioner Lopez asked about a provision in the agreement, wondering if the establishment was actually required to discourage loitering outside the store. Padro replied that the provision was a standard provision of ANC 6E settlement agreements for retailers. Commissioner Eichler made a motion to support the license and the settlement agreement. Lopez wanted to take out a reference in the agreement that required the store to work with the MPD to restrict loitering, considering that the District does not have a loitering law. Padro mentioned that the Alcohol

Beverage Control Board deletes unenforceable provisions in agreements before approving them. The motion to support the license passed with four yeas, one abstention.

Roasted Boon, 1018 Rhode Island Avenue, NW. Renewal of a license for a coffee shop that also offers wine. Padro said that the business did not have an investigative history and that the ABC Committee recommended supporting renewal. Eichler said that he had received unsolicited positive comments from the business’ next-door neighbors. A motion to support renewal passed unanimously.

Dolci Gelati Café, 1420 Eighth Street, NW. A request to support license renewal. Padro said there was no investigative history. The owner described his establishment as largely a gelato shop and that the pandemic had prevented an extension of the menu to include beer and wine until recently. Padro added that the license did not have an outdoor seating endorsement so that all alcohol had to be consumed within the premises.

Commissioner Eichler made a motion to support renewal, which passed 5-0.

Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC)

The TAC had a request for a resolution that would ask the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) to restore benches on the 400 block of K Street, NW. There had been benches there, but they were removed in 2021. The TAC asked DDOT why this was done, getting the reply that there is no record of why this happened. Commissioner Parlej explained that his constituents had brought up the issue. A motion to ask DDOT to replace the four benches that had been removed from the 400 block of K Street passed, four yeas, one abstention.

ANC 6E will next meet on January 10, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. as a virtual conference. After January 1, 2023, Shaw will no longer be part of ANC 6E. The new Shaw six-member commission will be ANC 2G. ANC 2G will hold its first meeting on Thursday, January 12, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. Plans are to hold this meeting as a virtual conference. u

DC Considers Locations for Public Restrooms

Pilot Project Would Give Everyone A Place to Go

by Sarah Payne

Aplethora of “No Public Restrooms’’ signs are plastered across the doors of businesses across the District, and it’s no secret that finding a public restroom in DC is a challenge for tourists, residents and individuals experiencing homelessness alike.

A new DC public restroom pilot seeks to change that. One of two programs created by the 2019 Public Restroom Facilities Installation and Promotion Act, the restroom pilot includes two parts: a standalone public restroom pilot that would purchase, install and maintain two standalone public restrooms within the District’s limits, and a community restroom incentives pilot which would select a business investment district (BID) to identify businesses and provide incentives for their restrooms to be available to the public.

A report issued in May 2022 provided recommendations on how to provide clean, accessible facilities in the District, suggesting stand-alone facilities be placed at three sites: Union Station, Dupont Circle and Starburst Plaza.

Limited Access

The report was put together by a working group called DC Public Restrooms. Members visited 85 private establishments across neighborhoods

including Gallery Place, DuPont Circle, Columbia Heights, Georgetown and along K Street. They found that only about half of the establishments allowed individuals to use the restroom without the expectation of patronizing the business.

A follow up study of those businesses the following year found that of the 45 places that had permitted use of facilities by non-patrons, only 28 were still permitting use without purchase. The team says that while some private businesses allow public access, the dwindling number presents sometimes urgent challenges for the public.

Marcia Bernbaum serves as a lead strategist, research coordinator and overall tracker of the project. Bernbaum previously worked overseas with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). She said there are greater resources available to residents and tourists of European countries. She particularly noted the infrastructure in England, which accommodates public bathrooms for all.

Bernbaum discussed the potential implementation of a program to provide financial incentives for businesses to open their existing restrooms to the public: cycists, shoppers, tourists, families, children and those experiencing homelessness. She emphasized that the “community buy-in” is crucial to providing access for everyone.

“We’re passionate about this,” Bernbaum said of the working group. “We want to do it right, we want to make sure (that) stand-alones are placed in places that meet the criteria.” Bernbaum said there are also certain areas that “desperately” need public restrooms east of the river.

Department of General Services (DGS) Director Keith Anderson, spoke positively about the research development and the future implementation of the program. The design for the facilities has not yet been finalized, he said. Anderson said the department’s three main concerns with the restrooms are cleanliness, security and functionality.

Anderson said that community input was at the forefront of the process and that the community response has been overwhelmingly positive and well received.

“We’ve done a tremendous amount of homework in terms of the public health benefits of public restrooms,” Anderson said. “We engage deeply with the community to include advisory neighborhood commissioners (ANCs) or commissions, business improvement districts and members of the community on these facilities.”

Location Determination

The focus of the effort is “high need” locations.

Dupont Circle is an example of an ideal spot, according to Bernbaum. The site is located near metro, with shoppers, commuters and tourists, she said, all factors that added points when evaluating potential facility locations. “You have a little bit of everything and then at night very active nightlife, with bars and restaurants and people experiencing homelessness.”

Safety, Bernbaum emphasized, is absolutely fundamental. She emphasized the importance of making public restrooms accessible to all and taking the necessary precautions to mitigate crime.

“We are not against putting a standalone (restroom) in an area where there are a lot of crime issues and people need it. The issue is in the precautions taken to make sure it’s safe for anybody going in,” Bernbaum said. “[T[he criteria for selecting and deciding whether it’s successful or not, is looking at crime incidents and costs to install, repair and maintain.”

The Existing Facilities Question

However, some have questioned the working groups recommended locations, pointing out that facilities are available at metro stops. After a presentation by the working group to ANC 6C, Commissioner Kelty expressed opposition to the program and advocated for a use of public facilities already in District metro stations that he says have been “intentionally made inaccessible.”

“My initial reaction to this was, rather than spend all this money building new toilets, why don’t we compel, encourage [or] pay metro to open up the toilets they have and staff them and address whatever concerns they have with making them available,” Kelty said, noting that the facilities already exist at many metro stops, were once available to the public and would have utility connections already in place. Kelty argued that it would be a much better use of the taxpayer dollar to return metro facilities to the public use.

However, WMATA Media Relations Manager Sherri Ly said that the original design of Metro did not include public restrooms. While all 91 Metro stations have employee restrooms, they are located in secure ancillary hallways that require employees to open doors if a member of the public requests access. Six of these are not accessible to the public for security reasons (Pentagon, Anacostia, Rhode Island Avenue, Congress Heights, U Street and Addison Road). The five newest stations on the current Silver Line extension were designed to include public restrooms.

So, while 85 of the stations technically have public access to restrooms, because a Metro employee is needed to escort a patron to the restroom and unlock a door, in reality there is no public access. Station managers have many duties. As Ly says, “There may be times when there is a medical emergency, crowding issues or other service disruptions, when the station manager... is unable to assist.”

Ly said the Metro system is working to make these existing facilities accessible when needed.

Bernbaum noted that while the utilization of WMATA’s restrooms would be beneficial, their use would not replace the need for the standalone restrooms proposed in the pilot.

“It’s not one or the other, Bernbaum said. “It’s just we desperately need the investments. We’re looking at personal and public health, (and) we’re not talking about a lot of money.”

Additionally, she noted, WMATA has limited operational hours. The public restroom pilot proposes 24/7 restroom access which would also fill the gap between the times that the metro is not open.

Future Directions

Agreeing that there is a public need for 24-hour availability of restrooms, Anderson said DGS remains focused on above ground restrooms in “strategic areas” and said that the department has “not had the conversations with Metro (about) possibly using some of those facilities.”

“I think the city is wise to ensure that our residents and visitors have access to public restrooms 24 hours a day, and so I think it’s a wise best investment for the city,” Anderson said. “I think there are a tremendous amount of public health benefits, and we are addressing the needs of our residents and visitors.”

You can learn more about DC Public Restrooms and the Law 22-280 implementation here.

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

People of all ages appreciate access to a clean, safe public restrooms. Credit: Marcia PFC

BULLETIN BOARD

Chinatown Celebrates the Year of the Rabbit

The DC Chinese Lunar New Year Parade is on Sunday, Jan. 22 at 2 p.m. Join in on the celebration by wearing the color red to ward off evil spirits and bring in good fortune. People born in the Year of the Rabbit usually have soft and tender personality traits. They keep a modest attitude and maintain a pleasant relationship to people around them. Years of the Rabbit include 2023, 2011, 1999, 1987, 1975, 1963, 1951, 1939, 1927. The parade starts at “I” and Sixth streets, NW and takes a circuitous route and ends Sixth and H. Find the exact parade route at dcparade.com (scroll down).

DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in the District.

DCHFA, Your

Homeownership Resource

in the District.

DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in the District.

DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in the District.

DC Open Doors

DC Open Doors

DC Open Doors

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

DC Open Doors

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

DC Open Doors

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Home Purchase Assistance Program

HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down

(HPAP)

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

serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) rst-time home buyer program.

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

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

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

years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage.

Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to

DC4ME

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

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

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

COVID-19

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

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

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

COVID-19

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

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

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

COVID-19

COVID-19

homebuyer or a D C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia. Visit www.DCHFA.org how to apply to any of DCHFA’s homeownership programs.

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

Visit www.DCHFA.org

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

how to apply to any of DCHFA’s homeownership programs.

Visit www.DCHFA.org

how to apply to any of DCHFA’s homeownership programs.

Ribbon Cut on (long-awaited)

Northwest One

On Dec. 19, Mayor Bowser, the DC Housing Authority, the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development and community members cut the ribbon on The Rise at Temple Courts, the long-awaited first phase of Northwest One at 2 L St. NW in Ward 6. The Rise at Temple Courts delivers 220 residential units, including 65 replacement units, 85 affordable dwelling units and 11 permanent supportive housing units. The New Communities Initiative--which began during the Administration of Mayor Anthony Williams--was conceived to revitalize severely distressed public housing and the surrounding neighborhoods into vibrant, mixed-income communities.

Photo: Chief Photographer for Mayor Bowser Khalid Naji-Allah

Shaw Main Street’s Bridge Fund Grants

e third round of Bridge Fund grants o ers many Shaw businesses the opportunity to receive up to $45,000 to compensate for the impacts of COVID-19 on operations and pro tability. e funds can be used to pay a wide range of business expenses incurred between the date of grant award until 09/30/23. ese include rent or mortage and payroll, among other costs. If your business has not previously received a Bridge Fund grant or other DC pandemic relief and meets all other requirements, you will receive between $5,000 and $45,000. Businesses that have previously received a DC Bridge Fund grant or other pandemic relief may apply but are not guaranteed to receive funding. obviouslydc.com/fy22-business-funding-opportunities.

Reserve Sewing Machine Time at MLK Library

Want to learn how to use a sewing machine for the rst time? Want to do a simple repair, but don’t own a machine? Make a three-hour long reservation on one of the Labs sewing machines at MLK Library, 901 G St. NW. First time Labs sewists will have a one-hour sewing machine orientation as part of their rst appointment. Reserve an appointment on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and ursdays, noon to 3 p.m. and 5 to 8:30 p.m.; Fridays, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; and Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m. Register at bit. ly/labsclasses. Please note that completion of a Labs Safety Orientation is a requirement before reserving any machines at the Labs.  e Labs is located on the A Level of the library. dclibrary.org/mlk.

Free Legal Services at MLK Library

On ursday, Feb. 2, 1 to 3 p.m., Neighborhood Legal Services Program attorneys will meet with customers who may have a variety of civil legal matters. ey can help with debt collection protection, criminal records sealing, disability and other public bene ts, student loans, unemployment, and wrongful placement on the child protection registry. Meet with a lawyer at MLK Library, 801 G St. NW, in rooms 202 J and K. No appointment needed. Dclibrary.org/MLK.

HBCU Scholarship Opportunities

DC Metro HBCU Alumni Alliance Higher Education Initiative will award ve $1,000 scholarships to incoming freshmen during fall semester. All applicants must be from DMV, Baltimore or VA/MD Eastern Shore. Applications are due by Feb. 17, 2023. Read more and apply at Bit.ly/Higher/ Education/Scholarship/Awards2023.

Free Weekly Bingo at The Fainting Goat

DC Fray asks you to get out of the house and turn your Tuesday into fun with DC Fray’s and e Fainting Goat’s free, in-person bingo series on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Fray will provide the game night host, bingo materials including daubers, and awesome prizes. e Fainting Goat is at 1330 U St. NW. districtfray.com.

Chamber Music at Noon at MLK Library

On rst ursdays at noon through June, enjoy an hour of beautiful music in the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library auditorium with their Performance Lab: Chamber Music at Noon concert series. Curated by Vasily Popov and Ralitza Patcheva, each program features di erent musicians

Watchdog Journalism is the beating heart of a healthy city.

100% of Your Contribution Goes To Working Journalists.

Capital City Go Go at the Entertainment & Sports Arena

Through March 25, enjoy watching Washington’s own NBA G League Capital City Go Go in the 4,000-seat Entertainment & Sports Arena with sight lines designed for an exceptional spectator experience. Here are the remaining game dates: Jan. 18 and 29, vs. Long Island Nets, Jan. 25 and 27, Windy City Bulls; Feb. 1, vs. Maine Celtics, Feb. 10, vs. Wisconsin Herd; Feb. 15, vs. Westchester Knicks, Feb. 25 and 27, vs. Delaware Blue Coats; and March 17 vs. Texas Legends, March 23, vs. Wisconsin Herd and March 25, vs. Westchester Knicks. The arena is a three-minute walk from the Congress Heights Metro at 1100 Oak Dr. SE. Tickets are $15. eventsdc.com.

and includes background discussions on the works being performed. Free. MLK Library is at 901 G St. NW. dclibrary.org/mlk.

Career Development at DC’s Achievement Centers

The Achievement Centers, at 2101 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave. SE and 450 H St. NW, offer a range of career development programming led by expert staff who help young people develop their strengths and confidence. The programming is free and open to all District youth ages 14 to 21. There is a seven-week vocational program for

18- to 21-year-olds that provides young adults with industry-aligned training to be able to pass recognized industry certifications. The training includes preparation for industry-recognized exams and participation in work-based learning experiences that transition into employment opportunities, with a goal of receiving a Certificate of Completion and job readiness. Young adults can register for the vocational program by walking into either Achievement Center or calling 202-5767299. The next program begins in January 2023 and will focus on tattoo artistry and microblading. dyrs.dc.gov.

White House Historical Association 2023 Quarterly Lecture Series Announced

The White House Historical Association has announced its Quarterly Lecture Series for 2023, White House History with Frank Sesno. The Emmy award-winning journalist and former CNN White House Correspondent and Washington Bureau Chief will sit down with news media influencers and authors to discuss the nuances of White House discourse and journalism. On Tuesday, Jan. 24, Sesno will moderate the first lecture of the series, “The

Winter Birdwatching on Kingman Island

On Saturday, Jan. 14, 8 to 11 a.m., join the Anacostia Watershed Society, Friends of Dueling Creek, and National Links Trust for a fun morning at the Langston Golf Course on Kingman Island looking for some of the Anacostia River’s prettiest and most secretive feathery friends—winter birds. The watershed is in the Atlantic Flyway. Learn about the different species of waterfowl and other wetlands birds that spend the winter at Kingman Lake and the Anacostia River. This event is open to birders of all levels. They will have some binoculars available on a first come, first serve basis and will have a couple of scopes to get a nice look at the birds. Bring your bird app and field guides. Some hiking will be involved but mostly on flat terrain on grassy and wooded terrain. Dress appropriately in layers and bring a warm beverage. Registration required at anacostiaws.org.

Televised Presidency.” The event will take place at The White House Historical Association at 5 p.m. with a reception to follow. The event is free and open to the public; however, space is limited, and an RSVP is required at whitehousehistory. org/events. Other lectures include: “Women and Journalism in the White House” on Thursday, March 30 from 5 to 7 p.m.; “Black Voices and the Media” on Thursday, Sept. 14 from 5 to 7 p.m.; “Covering the White House in the 24-Hour News to Social Media” on Thursday, Nov. 16 from 5 to 7 p.m. whitehousehistory.org.

Behaving Boldly: Women Leading 21st Century Museums

On Jan. 18, 6: 30 p.m., join the directors of the Hirshhorn, National Gallery of Art, National Portrait Gallery, and Smithsonian American Art Museum as they look back at the Guerrilla Girls’ “Horror on the National Mall!” (2007) and discuss the 21st century responsibilities of museum-making. In-person, free and in the Hirshhorn Ring Auditorium. Registration required. Light refreshments available for purchase. hirshhorn.si.edu.

Rock the Rink at The Wharf

This year, there are two Rock the Rink days at The Wharf, Wednesday, Jan. 11. 6 to 10 p.m. (Capitals at Philadelphia Flyers) and Saturday, Feb. 11, 2 to 6 p.m. (Capitals at Boston Bruins). Skate at The

Wharf Ice Rink with a DJ and Caps giveaways. The game will be broadcast on a jumbotron on the Transit Pier. Throughout the day, fans wearing Capitals gear receive $5 off admission to The Wharf Ice Rink. wharfdc.com.

Fire & Ice at the Wharf

On Saturday, Jan. 21, 1 to 4 p.m., join The Wharf for the third Fire & Ice, featuring the WAFF Ice House. Stop by the House on District Pier and help support the Washington Area Fuel Fund in their mission to raise funds to keep our neighbors warm this winter. Sit in the House and get your “Bring the Heat” thermal photo. There will also be a DJ, whiskey sampling stations, fire twirlers, an ice sculptor and s’mores at the firepit. This event is free and open to the public, must be 21+ to consume alcohol. Sampling tickets will be sold on-site. wharfdc.com.

Anacostia

Playhouse Seeks

New Plays for Festiva l

Anacostia Playhouse is seeking new, nonproduced plays from local playwrights for its New Voices New Works Play Festival. Submissions are being accepted through Jan. 15 and should address this year’s theme Love: Make Ya Do Right / Make Ya Do Wrong, be set in an East of the River neighborhood and have a maximum of four characters. The festival will run over three consecutive Monday evenings beginning April 28 at the Anacostia Playhouse, 2020 Shannon Pl.

SE. This project will introduce new and seasoned playwrights to Washington’s theater community; as well as, and establish relationships among writers, producers, and directors. Send submissions to the Anacostia Playhouse by email to info@ anacostiaplayhouse.com.

Eight-Part Business Law Series for Small Business Owners

This eight-part course is hosted by the DC Bar Pro Bono Center, the DC Department of Small & Local Business Development, and the DC Small Business Development Center. The course is designed for the non-attorney small business owner including sole proprietors, business partnerships, general managers, and owners of LLCs that seek to develop their capabilities. It provides an overview of setting up your business, contracts, employment law, risk/insurance, accounting, and intellectual property legal concerns. Registration includes all eight virtual sessions. There is a one-time $75 fee. Sessions are held on consecutive Tuesdays, from Jan. 10 to Feb. 28, 4 to 5:30 p.m. Participants will learn the basics of DC registration and corporate law, employment law, risk management, contracts, government contracting and certification, intellectual property, and accounting from experienced business attorneys at DC’s most prestigious law firms. Contact lpaley@dcbar. org with questions. Register at probono.center/ smallbiz8part2023.

Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon and 5k Registration Open

Sign up to run the March 18 Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon or 5k at runrocknroll.com/washington-dcregister.

DC Holds DC Teacher Summit in February

e Bowser Administration, through the O ce of the Deputy Mayor for Education, and CityBridge are partnering to hold a DC Teacher Summit for educators from DC public schools and public charter schools on Saturday, Feb. 11, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. e summit is themed, “Teachers Teaching Teachers (T^3): Lessons from Classroom to Community,” and will bring together teachers from across the city to connect and share strong instructional practices through teacher-led sessions. Teachers interested in attending can submit their interest at linktr. ee/teachersummit2023.

Foreclosure Prevention Webinars

e non-pro t Housing Counseling Services is conducting Foreclosure Prevention webinars in January to provide information about available options for people who are having di culty paying their mortgage, condo fees or property taxes. You may participate in the webinars by internet or telephone. Webinars, on Jan. 11, 18 and 25 at noon, are free: registration is required. Register at housingetc. org/webinar-registration. If you have questions, you may also call the Foreclosure Prevention hotline at 202-265-2255. housingetc.org.

Neighborhood Price BR

BLOOMINGDALE

1529 1st St NW $1,080,000 4

COLUMBIA HEIGHTS

1357 Newton St NW $1,250,000 4 3005 13th St NW $1,000,000 4 3728 9th St NW $999,000 4 2723 Sherman Ave NW $690,000 2 609 Columbia Rd NW $600,000 3 1406 Spring Rd NW $600,000 3 766 Hobart Pl NW $460,000 3 436 Lamont St NW $455,000 3

DUPONT CIRCLE

1712 19th St NW $3,300,000 6 1767 T St NW $2,600,000 5

ECKINGTON

1922 1st St NE $713,000 3 169 Todd Pl NE $500,000 3

KALORAMA

2009 Kalorama Rd NW $2,500,000 5 2121 R St NW $2,300,000 5 2334 Massachusetts Ave NW $2,250,000 4 2559 Waterside Dr NW $1,100,000 4

LEDROIT PARK

525 Florida Ave NW $900,000 3 229 Elm St NW $660,000 3

LOGAN CIRCLE

1727 11th St NW $1,126,000 4 1429 Swann St NW $1,150,000 2 1414 S St NW $2,995,000 4

NOMA

806 L St NE $1,249,000 4

OLD CITY #2

1316 T St NW $1,850,000 5 1929 15th St NW $1,300,000 4

SHAW

1530 6th St NW $1,045,000 5 1707 6th St NW $1,035,000 4 1826 6th St NW $1,000,000 3 200 Morgan St NW $752,500 3

TRUXTON CIRCLE

133 Bates St NW $840,250 3

CONDO

ADAMS MORGAN

2424 18th St NW #R1 $1,550,000 2

1706 Euclid St NW #6 $870,000 2 1706 Euclid St NW #5 $795,000 1 2633 Adams Mill Rd NW #401 $616,999 2 2038 18th St NW #103 $540,000 2 1930 18th St NW #23 $513,000 2

2611 Adams Mill Rd NW #T4 $290,000 1

BLOOMINGDALE

145 Adams St NW #1 $730,000 3

52 Quincy Pl NW #305 $305,000 1

CENTRAL

2501 M St NW #702 $950,000 2 2425 L St NW #312 $660,000 1 2301 N St NW #104 $512,000 2

COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 2623 13th St NW #2 $1,187,500 3 787 Ir ving St NW #2 $853,000 3 2819 11th St NW #2 $775,000 2 1101 Fairmont St NW #8 $680,000 2 435 Park Rd NW #1 $635,000 2 1354 Monroe St NW #A $630,000 2 1531 Park Rd NW #2 $620,000 2 1390 Kenyon St NW #805 $605,000 2 1390 Kenyon St NW #322 $550,000 2 1390 Kenyon St NW #PH 816 $525,000 1 1451 Park Rd NW #202 $450,000 3 3473 14th Street NW #1 $449,500 2 1415 Chapin St NW #106 $395,000 2 610 Ir ving St NW #206 $349,500 2 1038 Lamont St NW #T1 $345,000 2 3900-3902 14th St NW #111 $340,000 1 430 Ir ving St NW #204 $199,900 0

DUPONT

CIRCLE

1615 Q St NW #603 $790,000 3 1401 17th St NW #606 $630,000 2 1504 17th St NW #8 $512,500 1 1280 21st St NW #801 $460,000 1

1725 New Hampshire Ave NW #102 $399,900 2 1711 Massachusetts Ave NW #225 $299,500 1

1545 18th St NW #301 $286,000 0 1 Scott Cir NW #217 $230,000 1

1745 N St NW #508 $2,275,000 3 1815 19th St NW #7 $896,907 2 1745 N St NW #408 $854,000 2 1930 18th St NW #24 $600,000 2 1280 21st St NW #504 $575,000 2

1731 Willard St NW #104 $509,000 2 1545 18th St NW #803 $420,000 1 1308 21st St NW #103 $335,000 1 1825 T St NW #401 $235,000 0

ECKINGTON

9 Quincy Pl NE #2 $755,000 3

1625 Eckington Pl NE #504 $689,900 2 1831 2nd St NE #205 $432,000 2 330 Rhode Island Ave NE #202 $385,000 2

EDGEWOOD

2200 3rd St NE #4 $795,000 3

KALORAMA

1882 Columbia Rd NW #303 $1,289,000 2

1812 Wyoming Ave NW #402 $1,185,000 3 2205 California St NW #404 $1,145,000 2

2107 S St NW #N $975,000 2

2127 California St NW #305 $891,000 2

1701 Kalorama Rd NW #413 $700,000 2

1831 Belmont Rd NW #204 $460,000 2

2310 Ashmead Pl NW #101 $359,000 1

1851 Columbia Rd NW #704 $325,000 0

2415 NW 20th St NW #20 $749,000 2

LEDROIT PARK

149 W St NW #32 $267,000 0

LOGAN CIRCLE

1115 12th St NW #204 $265,000 1

1309 R St NW #1 $1,385,000 3

1401 R St NW #PH3 $850,000 1

1300 13th St NW #806 $775,000 2

1450 Church St NW #203 $730,000 2

6 Logan Cir NW #2 $689,900 2

1515 15th St NW #601 $655,000 1

1300 N St NW #206 $617,500 2

1300 13th St NW #409 $555,000 1

1211 13th St NW #404 $555,000 1

1460 Rhode Island Ave NW ##1 $499,000 1

1111 11th St NW #802 $430,000 1

1402 12th St NW #3 $389,900 1

1300 N St NW #507 $350,000 1

1420 N St NW #206 $257,000 1

1440 N St NW #502 $140,000 0

1440 N St NW #602 $140,000 0

MARSHALL HEIGHTS

11 46th St SE #203 $175,000 2

MT VERNON SQUARE

475 K St NW #1126 $680,000 2

811 4th St NW #709 $449,500 1 555 Massachusetts Ave NW #1407 $470,000 1 301 Massachusetts Ave NW #206 $359,000 1

NOMA

OLD

CITY

NW #202 $1,000,000 4

13th St NW #210 $93,587 1 KALORAMA