Mid City DC Magazine – November 2024 by Capital Community News

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

Champions Of Magic (chasing the unbelievable) at the KC

Following a decade touring the world as one of the most successful magic shows in history, the Champions Of Magic team is back with an explosive all-new show featuring thrilling and mind-bending illusions. Fusing their skills in grand-scale magic, a flair for spectacle, and undeniable showmanship, this interactive, highenergy show is sure to entertain the entire family. Combining their signature humor with groundbreaking magic, this team of illusionists presents a brand-new production unlike anything that has come before. Champions Of Magic is at the Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater on Nov. 19 to Dec. 1. Tickets are $39 to $155.

Leopoldstadt at STC

A Jewish family grows and struggles over the course of nearly 60 years, beginning with their initial assimilation into Viennese culture, negotiating the outbreak of two World Wars through to the aftermath of the Holocaust. Traversing decades of joy and strife, the family strives to maintain their delicate bonds of shared history. Directed by celebrated playwright/director Carey Perloff, in a new arrangement she crafted with Stoppard, the Tony and Olivier Award-winning play Leopoldstadt offers an intensely personal family drama for the holiday season. Leopoldstadt is at Shakespeare Theater Company’s Harman Hall, 601 F St. NW, from Nov. 30 to Dec. 29. shakespearetheatre.org.

Lykos Anthropos: A New Play About Monsters by

Bob Bartlett

On Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Nov. 24, 8 p.m., watch an outdoor, movable play at Congressional Cemetery, 1801 E St. SE. On the last evening of each lunar month, a young man meets a stranger in the forest as the moon is nearly full. Not for children. $35, plus fees. congressionalcemetery.org.

“We painters for the People must not only tell them the truth in human justice and righteousness, but we must … say it better and with more conviction than anyone else to be accepted.”—William Gropper, 1944

William Gropper: Artist of the People

William Gropper (b. 1897, New York, NY; d. 1977, Manhasset, NY) was a leading social realist artist whose work fervently addressed pressing socio-political issues of the 20th century. The son of impoverished immigrants from Romania and Ukraine, Gropper used his art to call attention to social injustice, contributing thousands of satirical illustrations to radical publications such as the New York Tribune, New Masses, and The Sunday Worker. The first exhibition dedicated to Gropper in Washington, DC, this presentation features more than 30 works that reveal his biting commentary on human rights, anarchy, labor, freedom and democracy. William Gropper: Artist of the People is at the Phillips Collection, 1600 21st St. NW, through Jan. 5. phillipscollection.org.

Sounds of Us: Immersive New Music Festival at the KC

On Saturday, Nov. 16, the Kennedy Center will be filled with nonstop music and visual art. The Sounds of Us festival features over 40 world premiere commissions by artist-driven nonprofit ARCO Collaborative in both ticketed concerts and free performances. Drawing inspiration from America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, Sounds of US reflects on the values that have shaped the nation--mentorship, innovation, and the passing of traditions-to envision a brighter future. Studio K concerts at 2, 4, 6 and 8 p.m. are paid, ticketed events. Free performances take place at 1, 3, 5 and 7 p.m. in the Peace Corps Gallery at the REACH. kennedycenter.org.

Sounds of US provides a space for all voices to be heard and a new way to enjoy music as a community—unrestricted by genre or exclusivity.

Japanese Art from the Collection at the Museum of Asian Art

On Oct. 26, the National Museum of Asian Art, 1100 Jefferson Dr. SW, unveiled “Japanese Art from the Collection,” a reinstallation of its permanent collection of objects from Japan with over 60 works ranging from 3000 BC to the 20th century. The exhibit transforms the way visitors engage with the objects on display, which are reconfigured into thematic sections with historic and contemporary relevance—ecology, trade, the body in Japanese art, crises and opportunities. The reinstallation demonstrates the relevance of these themes over extended periods of time and brings objects from different eras into dialogue with one another. Comprising paintings, sculptures, calligraphy and ceramics, the display reflects the breadth and growth of the museum’s permanent collection of Japanese art. asia.si.edu.

Pottery on the Hill

Pottery on the Hill is on the weekend of Nov. 17 to 19, at Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. It celebrates functional pottery that can be regularly used, such as dinnerware, drinkware, vases, platters and more by top ceramic artists from across the country. Avid ceramics fans will love the chance to talk with the potters in a casual, fun environment and continue to grow their collections. This is also a great opportunity to get a jump start on shopping for the holidays, giving the special people in your life a oneof-a-kind gift. This year, they welcome ten new potters: Christina Bendo, Danielle Carelock, Guillermo Cuéllar, Andrea Denniston, Seth Gutovsky, Matt Kelleher, Shoko Teruyama, Doug Peltzman, David Young, and Junko Young. Free admission. Friday preview, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., $40; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. free, and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., free. hillcenterdc.org/partner/ pottery-on-the-hill.

To the District, With Love (National Gallery Nights)

On Thursday, Nov. 14, 6 to 9 p.m., celebrate Washington, DC in the National Gallery of Art, East Building, with an evening of performances and art activities that honor the District’s people and culture. Tap into the pulse of the city with performances by punk band Ekko Astral. Dance to the beats of DJ Little Bacon Bear as she pays tribute to her local roots. Enjoy pop-up curator talks highlighting artwork with DC connections. Test your knowledge of DC art and music at trivia hosted by New Columbia Pub Quiz, and experiment with making alongside local artists. The National Gallery Nights lottery opens on Nov. 2. Get to the East Building by 5:30 p.m. to claim a limited number of walk-up passes available first-come, first-served. nga.gov.

Donna Polseno

WHAT’S

In Slavery’s Wake: Making Black Freedom in the World at the NMAAHC

In Slavery’s Wake: Making Black Freedom in the World will shift how we think about, talk about, and represent the history of slavery, race, and globalization and the continuing relevance of these histories to our world today. It opens on Friday, Dec. 13, at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, 1400 Constitution Ane. NW. nmaahc.si.edu.

NSO’s Leonard Slatkin & Emanuel Ax at the KC

On Nov. 14, 7 p.m.; Nov. 16, 8 p.m.; and Nov. 17, 3 p.m., with conductor Leonard Slatkin and pianist Emanuel Ax, experience the power and passion as these modern masters perform Mozart’s fierce and far-reaching Piano Concerto No. 20--one of only two the composer wrote in a minor key. Tickets are $17 to $119. kennedy-center.org.

“Congress is the great commanding theatre of the nation.” President Thomas Jefferson, 1808.

We the People of the United States… Ensure Domestic Tranquility (Twenty Years of Letras Latinas Poetry)

The Nation’s Stage Exhibit at the US Capitol

As the home of Congress, the Capitol is our nation’s stage. Here, the most important scenes of our collective life as citizens take place. It is where the civic traditions and ceremonies that affirm our democracy developed over time. The rituals that lend a sense of occasion, importance, and unity to our country today take place here. The Nation’s Stage exhibit explores the traditions surrounding events such as the opening of a new Congress, inauguration, joint sessions, and holidays. Original artifacts include the Electoral College ballot boxes, tally sheets, speeches from John Adams, Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln, cartoonist Charles Schulz’s Congressional Gold Medal, and china used at the 2009 inaugural luncheon. Also, don’t miss menu items inspired by “The Nation’s Stage” featured in the Capitol Café on the lower level. The Capitol Visitor’s Center is open Monday through Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. visitthecapitol.gov.

On Tuesday, Nov. 12, 7:30 p.m., the Folger Shakespeare Library celebrates twenty years of Letras Latinas, the literary initiative at the Institute for Latino Studies at the University of Notre Dame. Poets Blas Falconer (author of four poetry collections, including Rara Avis), Valerie Martínez (Each and Her and Count) and Dan Vera (Speaking Wiri Wiri and The Space Between Our Danger and Delight) will read from their work with a moderated conversation following the reading. Bookselling and signing will be available at the reception following the 60-minute event. $20. Folger Shakespeare Library is at 201 East Capitol St. SE. folger.edu.

Valerie Martínez

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

Alexandria Cider Festival

Hosted by the Office of Historic Alexandria in partnership with the Virginia Association of Cider Makers, this event includes cider tastings, a souvenir cider cup, live music, tavern games, local crafts and organization booths, and a little history also. While enjoying a selection of Virginia ciders, learn more about the growing Virginia cider industry and its connection to Alexandria history. The Alexandria Cider Festival includes offerings from Albemarle Cider Works, Blue Bee Cider, Lost Boy Cider, and more. Roaming Coyote and Scuttlebutt Bakeshops food trucks will be available for food purchases. The festival is held in the garden of the historic Lloyd House, 220 N. Washington St., on Saturday, Nov. 23, 1 to 5 p.m. Tickets are $55; $65 at door; and $25 for designated driver. alexandriava.gov/historic-alexandria/alexandria-cider-festival.

Six: The Musical (Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived.)

From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a Euphoric Celebration of 21st century girl power. This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over. Six: The Musical is at the National Théâtre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, from Nov. 12 to Dec. 1. Tickets start at $69. broadwayatthenational.com.

Joan Marcus.

Vienna Teng and Peter Mulvey at The Hamilton Live

In 2002, Vienna released her debut album Waking Hour, landing her on NPR’s Weekend Edition, The Late Show with David Letterman, and the top of Amazon’s music charts. Four more albums followed, most recently Aims in 2013, which became the first album to win four Independent Music Awards. Peter Mulvey has been a songwriter, road dog, raconteur, and almostpoet since before he can remember. Vienna Teng and Peter Mulvey are at the Hamilton, 600 14th St. NW, on Saturday, Nov. 16, 8 p.m., doors at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 to $40. live. thehamiltondc.com.

Black Power Rangers Comedy Tour

The Black Power Rangers are a group of sharp, insightful, Black comedians from the South. On Saturday, Nov. 16, 8 to 9:30 p.m., at City-State Brewing Co., 705 Edgewood St. NE, come laugh as they effortlessly weave social commentary with pop culture for a uniquely hilarious show. The Black Power Rangers Comedy Tour features stand-up from Wills Maxwell Jr. (Wilmington, NC), Jordan Centry (Charlotte, NC), Brandi Roberts (Raleigh, NC), Bria Beddoe (Washington, DC) and Von Mychael (Washington, DC). For ages 18 and older. $15. blackpowerrangerscomedy.com/tickets.

Dawes: Oh Brother Tour at the Warner

Dawes is an American folk rock band from Los Angeles, California, composed of brothers Taylor (guitars and vocals) and Griffin Goldsmith (drums). Their latest album is Oh Brother, a homegrown, sticky, raw record made in a room the size of a bathroom over the course of a couple weeks. The collection of songs has some dark jokers, some pulverizers, some movers and groovers – all in an attempt to shed light on the variety of underlying joys and anxieties inherent to being alive in 2024. The Dawes: Oh Brother Tour is at the Warner Theatre, 513 13th St. NW, on Thursday, Nov. 21, 7 p.m. Tickets are $31 to $175. Warnertheatredc.com.

Photo:

Dawes (Band) playing Farm-to-Fork in Sacramento.

Jordan Centry, Brandi Roberts, Wills Maxwell Jr., Jarrod Fortune, and Cordero Wilson.

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

The Wood Brothers at Strathmore

The heart of folk and American roots, The Wood Brothers have been serving up a blend of soulful melodies and visceral storytelling for decades. Individually, they’ve helped define American roots music, from Chris Wood’s unforgettable run with Medeski, Martin & Wood to Oliver’s groundbreaking music making with Tinsley Ellis and his own solo grooves. In the wake of their critically acclaimed 2023 album Heart is the Hero, the band is on the road again. The Wood Brothers are at Strathmore, on Saturday, Nov. 16, 8 p.m. $29 to $69. strathmore.org.

CBGBDC (Classic Punk Covers for Classic Punk Lovers) at The Pie Shop

Bursting out of the heart of a declining empire like a musical xenomorph intent on further carnage, The District’s CBGBDC set out in early 2022 to search and creatively destroy an otherwise largely overlooked corner in the world of cover bands. Drawing on the classics of the genre largely from ‘77-’82, CBGBDC brings renewed energy to the timeless tunes of that golden era of punk rock, with selections from The Sex Pistols, The Ramones, The Clash, Buzzcocks, The Damned, The Misfits, Cock Sparrer and many more, including DC’s own punk and hardcore luminaries like Bad Brains and Minor Threat. CBGBDC believes in the power of these classic punk tunes to engage people in fun and catharsis the way only punk rock music at its finest can. $12 to $15. CBGBDC is at The Pie Shop, 1339 H St. NE, on Thursday, Nov. 14, 8 p.m. pieshopdc.com.

Caleb Caudle & The Sweet Critters on the Millennium Stage

Just as the marbled salamanders emerge from under damp logs and leaves, the mushrooms—smooth, pearlescent ones and spongy morels—turn on like nightlights glowing in the dark, and the long-horned beetles and regal moths begin buzzing. It is here, in that restless middle of the night, under cover of darkness, where country singer Caleb Caudle’s sixth studio LP Sweet Critters is nestled. Caleb Caudle is at the Kennedy Center Millennium Stage on Saturday, Nov. 30, 6 p.m. For all free Millennium Stage performances, a limited number of advance reservations are available on a first come, first-served basis. Advance reservations do not guarantee a seat, and patrons are encouraged to arrive early. kennedy-center.org.

Cris Jacobs at The Atlantis

From Baltimore comes Cris Jacobs—an unexpectedly gritty soulblues singer and guitarist with outlaw country ethos. Blending a variety of musical traditions, Jacobs creates a distinctive voice and sound of his own punctuated by emotive songwriting and explosive guitar playing. Equally at home playing heartfelt Americana ballads or funky blues rockers, Jacobs is known for his mesmerizing live shows, where his improvisational guitar playing, powerhouse band, and deep reservoir of songs make each night a unique experience.

$28. Chris Jacobs is at The Atlantis, 2047 Ninth St. NW, on Friday, Nov. 22, doors at 7:30 p.m. theatlantis.com.

Theater Night

A curated preview of theater in the DMV

by Matthew McClure

Human connection, touch, intimacy. Everyone craves it. e primal urge to forge bonds with those around us is encoded from birth. is election month column is all about theater that acknowledges the power of physical, human attachment and connection. As we head to the polls, shake your neighbor’s hand, give your mom a hug or have lunch with an old friend. ere’s so much more that we have in common than what separates us. Read on for our curated selection.

On Right Now

e Art of Care, Mosaic eater Company Showing Oct 31 – Nov 24 www.mosaictheater.org

ere’s a popular anecdote often attributed to anthropologist Margaret Mead about the mark of a civilized society being its ability to care for its most vulnerable members. e Art of Care, a new play conceptualized and directed by Dr. Derek Goldman (Remember is: e Lesson of Jan Karski) spotlights not only the mutually transformative e ects of the act of care but also the importance of dissolving boundaries between the arts and medicine.

Dr. Goldman is artistic, executive director and co-founder of the Laboratory for Global Performance and Politics ( e Lab) at Georgetown University. He’s also Professor of eater and Performance Studies in the Department of Performing Arts and Professor of Global Performance, Culture and Politics at the Walsh School of Foreign Service. He returns to Mosaic to direct The Art of Care having directed Mosaic’s Unexplored Interior in 2015, so it’s a homecoming of sorts. “At core, the piece is an intimate ethnography of the care experiences of seven artists.” Goldman explains. “ ey’re sharing their own stories and at times performing each other’s stories. We’re creating a simple, elemental ritual of story sharing around this topic. ere’s no person that could come to this performance and not have something to connect to.” An awardwinning cast of seven DC actors o er up deeply personal stories of care that are interspersed with

similar narratives from those whose job it is to care for others. It’s a deeply moving and personal project that Dr. Goldman says he feels a particular a nity for. “A theme of my work and e Lab’s work is trying to slow down the process of forgetting or attuning ourselves to what we’re living through in the present. e (Covid-19) pandemic only deepened and ampli ed the intersections of performance and politics, global health and medical humanities. is work has grown organically from living through that time.”

e Art of Care has been created in collaboration with e Global Health Institute, the School of Health, School of Nursing, Medstar Health and the Medical Humanities Initiative at Georgetown University. Music is by DC’s own Jabari Exum, a Hip-Hop eater artist and percussionist whose work you might recognize from the Black Panther 1 and 2 soundtracks. Dr. Goldman hopes that e Art of Care will facilitate even more discussion about what care means beyond not only this performance but also beyond institutions of healing in DC. Come and prepare to be moved.

In the Spotlight Summer 1976, Studio eatre Showing from Nov 13 www.studiotheatre.org

e Vietnam War has just ended. e Free Love movement is a rosy memory, and America is celebrating 200 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. At a kid’s playgroup where children frolic under the watchful eye of their parents, Diana and Alice size each other up from across the room. Summer 1976 – by Pulitzer Prize winning playwright David Auburn – is the story of how an unlikely friendship blossoms between these two women in July of 1976. It’s a deceptively simple tale with a timeless message about the power of companionship that’s never been more relevant. Auburn’s play is being directed by Vivienne Benesch, artistic director at North Carolina’s PlayMaker’s Repertory Company. She explains that the action takes place in 2003 (25 years after Diana and Alice rst meet), thus the seven chapters of Summer 1976 are what Benesch calls a “retrospective” of their complex relationship after it has come to an

The cast of The Art of Care. Left to right: Tuyết Thị Phạm, Tom Story, Billie Krishawn, Susan Rome, Jabari Exum, Raghad Makhlouf and William T. Newman, Jr. Photo: Chris Banks.

end. “The roles that women fell into in the mid 70s were particular and this play looks at two of those types. Both stopped their educations to become mothers. What I love about this play is that these two women get deeper than that to help each other know that they are more than that.” Set design by Lee Savage and sound by Kate Marvin form unintrusive mnemonic cues that are the perfect backdrop to this story of how friendships can be a guiding light through life.

Summer 1976 isn’t just for the Boomers either, Benesch says. “I think the play speaks beautifully to a younger audience as well. The struggles are no different. Who we are, what we are allowed to

do. Where we are with Roe vs. Wade. All these things are on a precipice again.” The message she’d like you to go home with at the end of the evening? “Be kind to yourself. Forgive yourself and keep changing.”

Catch Before Closing

Romeo and Juliet, Folger Theater

Showing Oct 1 – Nov 10 www.folger.edu

Strap yourself in and prepare for a wild ride in director Raymond O. Caldwell’s radical reinterpretation of one of the bard’s most beloved plays. This is Romeo and Juliet on amphetamines. The rival houses of Capulet and Montague – differentiated by shades of red and blue in an overt nod to our own feuding Republicans and Democrats – launch political campaigns via live stream. Romeo swigs heavily on an intoxicating blue liquid and Juliet takes frequent hits from a crucifix around her neck. It’s heady stuff and well worth a visit to see at the newly revamped Folger Shakespeare Library.

At the core of his production, states Caldwell,

is the power of human connection in a digitized world. What is it about that most basic desire for skin-to-skin contact that can drive impetuous young lovers to (spoiler alert!) murder and suicide? Cole Taylor and Caro Reyes Rivera more than adequately impart a 21st century Gen Z flavor to the pair of star-crossed lovers destined for heartbreak; their earnest, dewy youthfulness contrasted against multimedia designer Kelly Colburn’s dazzling bombardment of animated phone screens and Jonathan Dahm Robertson’s brutalist sets. The actors come at you from all four sides of the theater in a deliberate attempt to shatter the fourth wall and implicate the audience in this narrative of the love of power, of excess and of the messy fleshiness that is personhood. There’s a lot crammed into Caldwell’s story. Real-life dialogue from current presidential candidates rendered into iambic pentameter using AI, a reference to a very Trumpian border policing dispute and political innuendos galore. Is it too much? See for yourself to decide.

Scene Stealer: Giovanna Alcântara Drummond and John Floyd revel exuberantly in their roles as Mercutio and Benvolio, the confidants to Romeo and Juliet. Drummond’s deliciously hedonistic tale of the journey of Queen Mab through the dreams of sleepers was a delight to behold and Floyd’s Benvolio (adorned with pearls and wearing an enviable pair of heels) imparted both a sensitivity and contemporaneity to this oft-undervalued character. u

LEFT: Fran Tapia as Lady Capulet, Caro Reyes Rivera as Juliet and Luz Nicolas as Nurse in William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Photo: Erika Nizborski.

RIGHT: John Floyd as Benvolio and Giovânna Alcantara Drummond as Mercutio in William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Photo: Erika Nizborski.

Sp o tli ght on Shaw

by Madi Koesler

DC9 Nightclub

With Survivor watch parties, live music and happy hour specials, DC9 (1940 9th Street, NW) has something for everyone.

The 20-year-old nightclub has three floors - a picture-filled lounge space on the first floor, a stage for performances on the second and a relaxed, open air roof deck at the top. With tickets typically under $30, DC 9 hosts concerts on the second floor, where there is plenty of room to dance and enjoy the show.

Known as one of the District’s best small venues for live music from local and national bands, the nightclub is located near U Street and wants to become your new weeknight go-to. The club’s new happy hour is part of this plan. From five to seven every Monday to Friday, local beers, rail drinks and some small bites are discounted to $5. Wine is also discounted to $6 a glass.

DC9 regulars rave about their Khaos Karaoke event. Every Wednesday at 10:30 p.m., DC9 turns their karaoke machine over to the attendees and lets “khaos” ensue. DC9 owner Bill Spieler said before starting karaoke, he went to lots of bars in DC and Baltimore for inspiration. They run the event using

Spotify, giving the singers lots of song options.

If 10:30 is a little late or singing in front of strangers sounds terrifying, DC9 also hosts a Survivor watch party every Wednesday at 8 p.m. on their roof deck. The event started two years ago when a group of locals asked if they could start putting Survivor on the upstairs TVs and now the event has created a weekly following. These weekly watch parties and karaoke are both free to attend.

If you’re looking for something a little different, DC9’s most unique event is their Nerd Nite series. Spieler compared the event to a science-oriented Ted Talk. Typically, three speakers give short lectures on topics they’re passionate about, which can range from how Scrabble works to “Heavy Metal Worms.” The event happens on the third Saturday of each month, with $10-15 tickets.

DC9’s sandwiches and burgers are all served with garlic fries and are available for dine in or takeout. The full food menu, hours and information on DC 9 events and how to get your tickets can be found on their website dc9.club.

Fossette Focacceria Opens

After almost 10 years of feeding the Shaw community New Jersey-style pizza at All Purpose (1250 9th Street, NW), Chef/Owner Mike Friedman recently opened Fossette Focacceria. Next door to All Purpose Shaw, the new space aims to be a casual market and cafe.

Fossette is the Italian word for “dimples,” referencing the dimples in focaccia bread. Open Wednesday to Sunday, the space offers a variety of breakfast and lunch focaccia sandwiches, desserts and coffee. The sandwiches are made with thin focaccia flatbread, not the thicker, more familiar kind,

with Italian meats and cheeses (like the Testaccio – braised beef short rib, horseradish, parmesan fonduta, arugula, parmigiano). Online ordering for pickup is available on Toast. For home chefs, Fossette’s market also offers high-quality coffee and Italian pantry staples.

Next door, in the same building, All Purpose Shaw is a must-go for Shaw residents and visitors alike. Widely regarded as offering one of the best pizzas in DC, All Purpose reflects Friedman’s love for the community. His recipes are the product of utilizing tradition and innovation. It took the chef a year to develop the pizza dough for All Purpose, which is made using a three-day cold fermentation process. Friedman also works with local farms to source the best ingredients and create fun seasonal specials.

The restaurant is specifically known for its New Jersey pizza. Not much different from New York style, All Purpose’s pizza is made in a deck oven at a lower temperature, creating a soft and chewy texture.

“Jersey pizza just means the pizza I remember growing up,” Friedman said. “It’s a very personal

DC 9 is known for its up-close concert experience. Photo: Alexander Padro, Courtesy Shaw Main Streets.

Chef Mike Friedman owns Fossette Focacceria and All Purpose in Shaw. Photo courtesy The Red Hen.

experience. And, you know, if you ask anyone, they’ll tell you their three favorite pizzerias that they would go to. And, to them, those are better than any other pizzerias that you could ever imagine.”

is nostalgia is what Friedman attempts to recreate at All Purpose. From the Caesar salad to Friedman’s pizza menu favorite— the Buona (tomato, mozzarella, pepperoni, grana, Calabrian chili honey, fresh basil)— the chef puts a little bit of love and his story into each dish.

For full menus and hours, visit allpurposedc.com and fossettedc.com.

Right Spot

Right Spot (1917 9th Street NW) is the right spot to grab a bite to eat, enjoy a few drinks or dance the night away. Located in Ninth Street’s Little Ethiopia, Right Spot o ers a dining experience downstairs and a casual lounge on the second oor.

e dimly lit lounge space has pops of neon and creates a relaxed environment to dance or chat with friends at the bar. Patrons can enjoy creative cocktails and DJ shows typically inspired by Afrobeats. @RightSpotDC9Street on Instagram o ers updates on these themed nights.

e food menu rotates, but Right Spot is best known for its pasta and mussels. Some happy hour fan favorites are popcorn shrimp and sliders, according to Owner/Manager omas Abebe.

omas Abebe runs Right Spout, along with his wife and siblings. He takes care of general management, while his wife oversees the bar and his siblings handle entertainment and food.

e Abebe family opened Right Spot in 2016, but the family has been in Little Ethiopia for decades. In 1991, the elder Abebes opened Metro Grocery on the same block, one of the rst Ethiopian-owned businesses there. With the success of the business, they were able to buy properties in the corridor. As the neighborhood’s renaissance progressed and chain stores like CVS moved into the area, the family decided to pivot to the restaurant industry.

Since taking over the family business, the second generation has worked hard to create a more modern “vibe” and cultivate a space that people want to come back to. “Our customers are very loyal,” Abebe said.

Madi Koesler is a photojournalist and reporter for MidCity DC and the HillRag. She can be contacted at madikoesler@gmail.com or on Instagram @madikoesler. ◆

Four specialty cocktails from The Right Spot. Photo courtesy The Right Spot.

Illegal Cannabis Poses Risks to Consumers and the Public

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

In 2023, District resident Steph Sherer ate an edible to help with pain as she recovered from surgery. A few hours later, she woke up unable to move her limbs. She had lost all muscle control. Her heart was racing and she was covered in hives.

“I was literally deciding if I should call loved ones or 911 — like, which I should do first,” Sherer said.

Sherer knows a lot about cannabis—enough to know it wasn’t the cause of her reaction. Rather, the edible, she believes, was contaminated by chemicals used to extract cannabinoids from the plant that were not later removed.

“If you know nobody’s looking, you are maybe just going to skip that step in your extractions,” Sherer said.

Founder of Royal Hemp Lev Kerman says butane extraction should not be used in edibles. If butane is accumulated in the body over time to high enough levels, it can poison the body. Studies have shown butane can cause cardiac damage and organ failure.

Today, Sherer heads Americans for Safe Access (ASA), a medical-marijuana advocacy group dedicated to regulating the cannabis industry to ensure consumer health and safety.

So-called I-71 dispensaries sell most of the cannabis in the District. Their products are completely unregulated by governmental health and safety agencies. They are neither tested for contaminants such as butane, mold or pesticides or analyzed for potency. The 11 DC-licensed medical cannabis dispensaries, on the other hand, are legally required to test their products and source them in the District.

Medical Cannabis:

DC Grown & Tested

All medical cannabis and cannabis products are grown and manufactured in the District under strict supervision of the Alcohol Beverage And Cannabis Administration (ABCA) and the DC

Dept. of Health (DOH). ClearSight, ABCA’s medical cannabis laboratory tests products prior to sale, checking for potency and contamination in addition to medical cannabis manufacturers and farmers internal testing.

District regulations serve several aims. First, they prevent contaminated or unsafe cannabis products from reaching the market. Second, they clearly label each product’s potency, allowing users to adequately gauge their dosage. Lastly, they provide accountability in the event of injury, by clearly supervising and auditing both production and supply chains. The District’s first testing lab opened Aug. 31; all product sold in District stores must be tested there. District residents can also submit product for testing.

“In the event something did come up —hopefully not but if it did—there would be a recall,” said ABCA Director Fred Moosally. “So you know exactly what you’re getting.”

The same cannot necessarily be said of products sold in I-71 dispensaries. They are sourced

from what a one former I-71 retailer referred to as “unknown sellers.” Their source, production process and ingredients remain a mystery.

Sixteen new dispensaries are about to open with more on the way. “The District’s medical cannabis system is highly regulated,” said Councilmember Charles Allen (Ward 6-D).

Allen said there is no grey market. I-71 shops are simply not legal. “I also think they’re very dangerous,” he said. He said at an Oct. 21 public meeting that when ABCA closes illegal retailers, “ABCA is seizing cannabis that is laced with amphetamines, laced with fentanyl. It is dangerous. This stuff is getting passed to the general public and I think it’s very dangerous for people who are trying to consume cannabis.”

“There’s a huge distinction between our unlicensed and licensed shops,” Allen said. “I also think there are public safety challenges that are very clear to me around unlicensed shops.”

Injured by Unregulated Cannabis

Consuming unregulated cannabis poses risks. Marijuana plants are very good at absorbing elements of the soil they are planted in, so good that industrial marijuana has been used successfully to remove soil contaminants generated by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster since 1998. They easily absorb mold, fungus, pesticides and metals.

That can create problems when marijuana is consumed. A 2018 Columbia University study found that cannabis users were three times more likely to develop a fungal infection than non-users. They were also found to have higher levels of lead and cadmium in their blood and urine, which can lead to seizures, neurological problems and even cancer.

MPD field tests product found in raids. In two of the five closures under the new law, amphetamines were found in cannabis. Amphetamines are stimulants designed to speed up messages traveling between the brain and the body. They increase energy and euphoria but also potentially

Sept. 5

ABCA RAIDS SINCE SEPT

increase heart rate or surges of aggression. Long-term amphetamine use can damage the brain and the cardiovascular system and may lead to psychosis, malnutrition and erratic behavior. Medically, amphetamines include drugs like Adderall and Ritalin. Recreationally they include speed and crystal meth.

However, the American Addiction Center says amphetamine contamination is far less likely than contamination by mold or solvents. Nonetheless, MPD stands by the ndings.

MPD would not discuss the type of eld testing conducted during a raid, but said that “[test] results are only considered de nitive after laboratory analysis is completed,” usually by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) or the notoriously troubled lab at the DC Department of Forensic Science (DFS).

I-71 Weed’s Shadowy Wholesalers

It’s not clear where I-71 dispensaries source their cannabis products. eir owners, even those who have now transitioned to the medical industry, remain reluctant to talk about wider cannabis wholesale distribution networks.

However, a few legal cases o er clues.

Between 2018 and 2022, a cannabis delivery service called JointVentures LLC operated from two units in a residential building on 12th Street NW, according to court records. Owner Connor Pennington employed drivers and cyclists to deliver cannabis products to its customers.

Pennington sourced his marijuana from Colorado and California growers, according to the statement of facts led in Eastern District of Virginia Courts. He transported the products back to DC via commercial ights, the US Mail and FEDEX. In the rst three quarters of 2021, JointVentures made more than $2.3 million in pro ts, according to the US Attorney.

In spring of 2023, the US Attorney O ce for DC (USAO-DC) conducted a string of prosecutions against members of the La Dank DMV gang, accusing them of bringing hundreds of pounds of marijuana to DC from California.

e gang, according to the USAO, sold cannabis products both through a dedicated website and individual dealers. Crew members set up “stash houses” in Airbnbs. Each distribution point functioned for a couple of days at a particular property, before moving to another, according to prosecutors. Such caution is not surprising. Distribution of cannabis involves large concentrations of drugs and cash, which invites crime. When they were arrested, the members of the LA Dank crew had 122 pounds of marijuana, 19 guns and 10 machine gun conversion devices.

Cannabis operations in residential buildings have led to violence.

On a late afternoon September 2023, Matthew Miller was sitting with two friends, Chaz Christian and Deandre Christian, eating take-out tacos in the living room of their unit at the Valo Apartments at 222 M St. SW. ree men dressed in black burst into the apartment and started shooting. Miller and his two friends jumped

Sept. 13

Supreme Turpene (1344 U St. NW)

Green Cloud (706 Kennedy St. NW)

All American Papers (504 H St. NW)

39 lbs. of psychedelic mushrooms, more than 22 lbs. of marijuana, and more than 33 lbs. of other substances containing THC.

numerous packages of THC products, a bowl containing a green weed-like substance, multiple marijuana plants.

None

See: https://mpdc.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/mpdc/publication/attachments/10.2%20Marijuana%20Offenses.pdf opium.

Powder testing positive for opium.

StonerzDC (521 H St. NE)

Flight Pass/Green Room (1338 U St. NW)

3,326 grams of Marijuana, 512 grams of THC edibles, 2,053 grams of THC vape cartridges, 459 grams of Entheogenic mushrooms, and 16 grams of cannabis oil.

949 grams of Marijuana laced with Amphetamine, 4,808 grams of THC laced edibles, 1,723.65 grams of THC wax, and 28 grams of Entheogenic mushrooms.

1,458 grams of Marijuana laced with suspected Amphetamines, 112.72 grams of THC-laced edibles, 1,736 grams of THC wax, 11.65 grams of THC capsules, 9.8 grams of THC Vape Cartridges, 11 grams of THC oil, and 59 grams of Entheogenic mushrooms.

Dreams Smoke Shop (2335 18th Street NW)

In the Cut (1460 Park Rd. NW)

Coupons R Us (6234 Georgia Ave. NW)

3.6 lbs. of marijuana, 5.7 lbs. of THC laced edibles, 4.6 lbs. of THC vape cartridges and entheogenic plants (mushrooms).

4.4 lbs. of marijuana, 4 grams of THC laced edibles, 2.5 ml of liquid THC, and 30 grams of entheogenic plants (mushrooms). A Glock 42 handgun and ammunition was also recovered.

34 lbs. of marijuana, 4.9 lbs. of echogenic mushrooms, 3.9 lbs. of THC resin, and 2 lbs. of THC laced edibles.

Mushrooms (Schedule 1)

Amphetamine

Mushrooms (Schedule 1)

Amphetamine

Mushrooms (Schedule 1)

Glock handgun and ammo

Mushrooms (Schedule 1)

A Glock 27 semi-automatic handgun and 150 rounds of ammunition were also recovered.

Cannabis Karma (825 Upshur St. NW)

Capitol Budz (607 Pennsylvania Ave, SE)

31.9 lbs. of THC laced edibles, 4.8 ounces of marijuana, 60 grams of THC wax, and 27 grams of THC vape cartridges.

1.5 lbs. of marijuana, 8.7 lbs. of THC laced edibles, 4.9 lbs. of THC vape cartridges, 22.7 lbs. of THC resin, and 1 lb. of entheogenic mushrooms.

None

to their feet, scattering taco and rice across the room, police records state.

e robbers attempted to tie Miller and Christian’s hands behind their backs with zip ties. Miller escaped to the bedroom under re, leaving a trail of blood. Meanwhile, Christian wrestled a gun from the black-clad strangers and started shooting back, police and court records state.

As Christian red, the three men in black grabbed bags of marijuana and cash. Another unidenti ed man scrambled out the balcony to escape and inching along the narrow ledge on the building’s the fth oor façade. He fell, later dying in hospital from his injuries, police and court records state.

Arriving a few minutes later, police o cers discovered streaks of blood in the lobby, in the stairwell and throughout the fth oor apartment. Miller was found face down on the oor next to the bed, shot twice with a zip tie still around one wrist. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Christian, shot in the legs, made his way to the lobby.

e statement from police describes an apartment strewn with shell casings, cash throughout the kitchen and living room and cannabis packaged both “in plastic bags as for distribution” and in large suitcases as for tra cking. Police seized more than $88,000 in cash and 115 pounds of marijuana, as well as suitcases and a ledger and recovered at least two guns.

e robbery provides another glimpse of the wholesale cannabis market. Entrepreneurs procure large quantities of cannabis products outof-state. ey arrange for delivery to temporary distribution points located mostly in large residential apartments. e weed is then sold to the many I-71 dispensaries dotting the District’s streets. e transactions, illegal under federal statute, are conducted completely in cash.

“We knew it was drugs,” one

resident told WTOP on the day of the shooting. “We told management repeatedly, but they did nothing.”

Educating The Public

So, unregulated cannabis comes with potential threats to public safety alongside threats to personal health. District consumers of cannabis mostly remain unaware of the risks of consuming these unregulated products. Most draw no distinction between I-71 and medical dispensaries. “ ere are people that are coming from outside of our area and even people in the city don’t have any knowledge that they’re walking into an illegal place,” said Linda Greene, of Anacostia Organics, a Ward 8 medical dispensary.

Medical cannabis industry members, such Greene, argue the District should provide signage indicating a business is conducting regulated, legal sales.

All the District needs is for a prominent individual to consume a contaminated cannabis product, said Greene. e resulting health emergency, she said, could put selfgovernance at risk. “ at’s a bad, bad eye on the city,” Greene said. “We know that the Republicans are talking about perhaps getting control, taking away our home rule again.”

at goes straight back to statehood, of course, and the Republicans who blocked regulation in the rst place. But it would be small consolation to the medical licensees who would lose their livelihood.

“I’m very worried about consumers in DC,” she said. “I don’t think that it’s going to be overnight that the facilities are going to be testing products, and I think it’s not going to be overnight for them to shut those, those other facilities down.”

e ASA has created a guide for Cannabis consumers, Know What’s In Your Cannabis! Find it at https:// www.safeaccessnow.org/know_ whats_in_your_cannabis ◆

Shaw Streets

by Pleasant Mann

Shaw Celebrates Open Streets

On Saturday, October 5, the District Department of Transportation shut down Seventh Street between Rhode Island Avenue and E Street for its latest Open Streets event. e one mile stretch of Seventh Street was closed to vehicles so people could safely walk, run, bike, and play. As Shaw residents, along with other visitors, strolled down the street, yoga and pilates sessions were set up along the road. Giant Pharmacy opened up an Airstream travel trailer o ering vaccinations. Young children enjoyed a giant moonbounce and foamboree. e Department of Parks and Recreation set up a monster video screen that would allow people to play popular video games of the last century. e Gran Cata wineshop set up a ring toss competition o ering a free bottle of wine to any winner. At the north end of the open street, at Rhode Island Avenue, a Marimba orchestra, Luna de Xelaju, played in front of the Maltiox Guatemalan restaurant.

Northern Irish Minister Tours Shaw

Shaw Main Streets hosted a tour of the neighborhood October 16 for Gordon Lyons, Minister for Communities in Northern Ireland, to outline the successes of the Main Street program in Shaw. Minister Lyons was interested seeing how Main Streets encouraged neighborhood economic development and picked Shaw as a result of its wining the Great American Main Streets Award as an exemplary illustration of how the process works.

Shaw Main Streets Executive Director Alex-

ander Padro led the Minister and his entourage on a tour that started with the Marriot Marquis Convention Center Hotel, the Carnegie Library with its Apple Store and the Washington Convention Center. en they moved to City Market at O and the Giant Food store to see that awardwinning mixed-use development. At the Howard eater, a site that the minister had expressed a particular interest in seeing, the group learned about this vaunted venue’s entertainment history and the e ort required to renew it. e tour also visited Lee’s Flower and Card Shop to hear how a multigenerational small business has survived and thrived. e tour concluded a pass by the Little Gay Pub, whose three-story tall mural includes the owers of the kingdoms of the UK, including the Northern Irish shamrock.

Pearl’s Bagels

Declared Best in DMV

While the Washington Post is too afraid to make an endorsement in the Presidential contest, it is still willing to express a preference in the contentious contest for the Best Bagel in town. After an extensive examination of bagel purveyors in the DMV, the Post rated Shaw’s own Pearl’s Bagels as No. 1. e newspaper declared that “ is husband-and-wife shop in Shaw ran away with the competition in every way conceivable,” beating out a number of bigger, more well-known businesses. Pearl’s plain bagel got the highest score from the Post’s team of judges, with

its everything bagel getting the only perfect 10 in the competition.

Qui Qui Holds Rum Tasting

Qui Qui, Shaw’s Puerto Rican restaurant, held a special rum tasting on October 11, featuring Ron Del Barrilito rums. Brand ambassador Jose Ortega gave a history of the distillery, which dates to an eighteenth-century sugar plantation in Puerto Rico where a scion of the family decided to start making rum. Ortega noted some of the quirks of the process, including the fact that the distillery relies on only rainwater from a cistern to make its products. He then led the tasters through a series of rums rated four and ve stars by the distillery. e highlight of

the evening was a tasting of their Don Pedro Fernandez Selection 1, a rare single cask limited edition rum, of which only 143 bottles were produced. (Qui Qui has two bottles.)

Qui Qui is already getting ready for the holidays by setting up a Coquito Bar, featuring the traditional holiday drink of Puerto Rico. e bar features seven di erent avors, including pistachio, banana, hazelnut/chocolate and a vegan version of coquito. Customers can order a three- avor ight of coquitos at the bar. For anksgiving, Qui Qui is also packing a Caribbean-oriented family dinner available for pickup on the holiday.

Howard Theater Celebration November 23 e Historic Howard eater Foundation and

Qui Qui Chef/Owner Ismael Mendez watches Ron Del Barrilito brand ambassador Jose Ortega lead a group tasting of the distillery’s premium rums. Photo by Alexander Padro. Courtesy of Shaw Main Streets.

DDOT Open Streets shut down tra c on Seventh Street in Shaw for six hours on October 5th. Photo: Pleasant Mann.

Gordon Lyons, Minister for Communities in Northern Ireland, left, gets a description of the history of the Howard Theater and its renovation from Alexander Padro, Executive Director of Shaw Main Streets. Photo courtesy of the Northern Ireland Department of Communities.

Events DC are holding a celebration honoring the 114-year-old theater. e event will raise funds for the newly launched Foundation, which is dedicated to the preservation of the theater, its vibrant history and educating the community about its unique cultural heritage. e main event of the evening will be a performance by iconic Jazz, R&B and Soul maestro Robert Glasper, who will stage a lineup of special musical guests. Tickets are available at thhf. org/night-of-music-2210.

Shaw Small Business Saturday/Tree

Lighting November 30

Shaw will again mark the beginning of the holiday season November 30 with Shaw Small Business Saturday, the neighborhood’s version of the national Small Business Saturday push to give prominence to local small businesses during the shopping season. is year, Shaw Main Streets will again o er the ever-popular Shawbucks, ve-dollar denominated coupons that could be used at participating neighborhood businesses that day. e Shawbucks seem to do the trick to inspire purchases right after anksgiving, with businesses reporting sales to hundreds of Shawbuck-bearing customers in previous years. e $5,000 worth of Shawbucks will be distributed at a Shaw Main Streets tent on Eighth Street at City Market at O, starting at 12:00 p.m., while supplies last. Free hot apple cider, holiday cookies, candy and recyclable shopping bags will also be given away.

Roadside Development will start the holiday season this year by closing down Je Coudriet Way on Saturday afternoon from 3-6 p.m. to make City Market at O the center of the neighborhood’s celebration. Expect to again see “ice” skating, photos with Santa, and live music. A number of food trucks will also o er free delights to festival attendees. e celebration will close with a holiday tree lighting at sunset. ◆

ANC 1B 11th Street Protected Bike Lanes

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 1B held its meeting on Oct. 10. It was held as a virtual meeting. e commissioners attending the meeting were Sabel Harris (1B08, Chair), Larry Handerhan (1B01, Vice Chair), Frank Chauvin (1B02), Jamie Sycamore (1B03), Santiago Lakatos (1B04, Treasurer), Alan Kensek (1B05), Miguel Trindade Deramo (1B06), Ashleigh Fields (1B07), Tucker Jones (1B09).

e discussion of the District Department of Transportation’s (DDOT) plans for a Protected Bike Lane (PBL) along 11th Street, as well as one along Vermont Avenue started with a presentation from Christopher Berg from DDOT’s Planning and Sustainability Division. He stressed how important protected bike lanes were to encouraging alternative forms of transportation. People would like to use their bikes for transportation, but are currently afraid for their safety on District streets. Berg also said studies show that protected bike lanes tend to make travel safer not only for bikers, but also for pedestrians and auto tra c.

e 11th Street PBL project would provide protected bike lanes for a two-mile stretch of the street from L Street to Monroe Street, providing a seamless corridor from Columbia Heights to Downtown. However, there is a particular problem with the narrowness of the street from Vermont Avenue to Florida Avenue. DDOT currently has started to develop three alternatives to deal with this. e rst alternative is to construct a protected bike lane, maintaining the street’s current two-way auto tra c, which would require removing all parking between Vermont and Florida. e second is to install the protective bike lane, turn 11th into a one-way street and allow parking on one side of the street. e third alternative is to install a protected bike lane for northbound tra c, create a sharrow

by Pleasant Mann

(a shared tra c lane for bikes and vehicles) going south, and allow parking on one side of the street. ere are also plans for protected bike lanes on Vermont Avenue. e e ort is easier there because of the width of the street. ere will be two protected bike lanes, along with two vehicle tra c lanes, as well as parking on both sides of the street. e project is currently in the 30 percent design phase, with construction in the summer of 2025.

Commissioner Sycamore complained about the maintenance of current protected bike lanes and wondered why DDOT was anxious to install new ones now. A resident asked if the project would be an opportunity to take out the rail tracks on 11th Street and the answer was no. Another resident asked what impact the project would have on spaces for the proposed U Street Parking Zone. e reply was that the exact loss of parking spaces would be determined by the nal design of the project.

Commissioner Lakatos presented a resolution to support the 11th Street bike lane project, with Alternative 2 being the preferred form that it should take. Lakatos said that the Transportation Committee would work on a resolution for the protected bike lanes on Vermont Avenue for the November commission meeting. Sycamore asked to delay a vote on the 11th Street project for a month. Commissioner Harris said that she would not support a delay, since it is an important safety issue. e resolution to support the 11th Street protected bike lane project passed unanimously.

Other Matters

A settlement agreement with Crank Corner (1915 Seventh Street NW), a medical marijuana retailer license applicant, required the commission’s approval. e ANC had previously voted to protest

the license, but with a settlement agreement, the protest would end. After a brief review of its provisions, the settlement agreement with Crank Corner was unanimously approved.

A representative of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development gave an update on the status of the redevelopment of the Reeves Center. Plans are to have the Council vote on disposing the property by the end of 2024, requiring tenants to vacate in 2025, with the redevelopment starting in 2026.

e Economic Committee proposed that the commission support the placement of one of the new public toilets from rone Labs that the District is trying out. ey suggested either the vacant lot at 625 T Street or somewhere on U or V Streets. Some commissioners objected to the idea, believing that some residents would not want a public toilet near them. ere was also the concern that businesses might not want them. Commissioner Jones admitted that he had not talked to a lot of businesspeople about the idea yet. A motion from Commissioner Trindade Deramo to table the matter and refer it back to the Economic Committee for further development passed.

ANC 1B will hold its next meeting on ursday, December 5, starting at 6:30 p.m. Plans are to hold this meeting as a virtual conference. Visit www.anc1b.org for more information. ◆

ANC 2G Zoning Adjustments

by Pleasant Mann

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 2G held its monthly meeting on October 10, 2024. e meeting was held as a virtual conference. Commission Chair Rachelle Nigro (2G06) called the meeting to order. Commissioners Anthony “Tony” Brown (2G01, Treasurer), Alexander M. “Alex” Padro (2G02), Steven McCarty (2G04, Vice Chair) and Sheena Berry (2G05) were in attendance.

A rowhouse at 1613 Fifth Street NW had applied to the Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) for an increase in lot occupancy for a project that involved adding a third oor, a new basement and a roof deck. When the project went before the commission for support in previous months, a number of neighbors expressed concerns about the owners’ application and opposed the e ort.

Now residents said that they had been able to talk to the owners and were satis ed enough so that they could support the project. Commissioner Padro asked if Commissioner Watkins, who was not at the meeting, supported the project. Commissioner Nigro said that Watkins was in favor of it. e request for support was approved unanimously.

e team behind the redevelopment of the Henrietta building at 933 N Street NW also had an application before the BZA for an increase in lot occupancy. e request was for a special exemption to divide the current lot the building was on into two separate lots, allowing construction of a new rowhouse on a currently vacant part of the property. A motion to support the BZA application passed unanimously.

Flight Club

Flight Club at 641 New York Avenue NW is a new restaurant applying for a liquor license with an entertainment endorsement. A brand with outlets in

the US, UK and Australia, Flight Club is known for its provision of dart games for groups of up to 20 people. e establishment would have a maximum occupancy of 307.

Commissioner Nigro said that she was certain that Flight Club would be a destination restaurant. She wondered if the closest garage would still be open before the restaurant closed. Nigro then asked why the draft settlement agreement with the commission only obligated Flight Club to provide security from ursday to Sunday nights. She told the representatives that the nature of the neighborhood would require security every night. Commissioner Padro noted that a much smaller bar on the block has already agreed to provide security seven days a week. e Flight Club representatives eventually agreed to change the settlement agreement to obligate them to have security every night. A motion to support the license for Flight Club passed unanimously.

Call For Cannabis Licensing Reform

Commissioner McCarty asked the commission to pass a resolution calling for a modi cation of the protest process at the Alcohol Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA). e process currently calls for an ABCA inspector to provide an investigative report to the parties involved before a protest hearing. However, the report comes too late to incorporate information from it into the Protest Information and Exhibit Form required before the protest hearing. McCarty’s resolution would require an investigation report to be completed two weeks before the protest hearing. e resolution passed unanimously.

Brian Romanowski, constituent services director for Ward 2 Councilmember Brooke Pinto,

reported that the DC Council was working on broadening the ability to protest new cannabis licenses. Plans are to allow child day care centers within 400 feet of a potential cannabis dispensary to submit a protest to the license. An e ort to allow a group of nearby residents to protest a cannabis license, as is the case with liquor licenses, did not receive su cient support from members of the Council.

Sixth Street & New York Avenue Traffic Change

Commissioner Nigro said that she had received a Notice of Intent (NOI) from the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) to make an improvement on Sixth Street and New York Avenue, after a pedestrian was killed at that intersection by a car making a left turn from Sixth to New York. e NOI calls for creating dedicated left turn lanes for cars going both northbound and southbound on Sixth Street. is would require the elimination of three parking spaces on the east side of Sixth Street in ANC 2G. e commission voted unanimously to support the NOI.

ANC 2G will hold its next meeting on Dec. 12. e meeting will start at 6:30 p.m. Plans are to hold this meeting as a virtual conference. Visit www.anc2g.org for more information.◆

BULLETIN BOARD

DowntownDC Holiday Skate Spectacular

e DowntownDC Holiday Skate Spectacular, hosted at the National Building Museum, 401 F St. NW, will be an indoor synthetic ice rink, from Dec. 15 to Jan. 4, featuring themed skating days, including disco and glow nights, as well as speci c times for young children. Skating is free to the public, with a $5 rental fee for skates. nbm.org.

CityCenterDC Holiday Tree Lighting

CityCenterDC invites you to kick o the holiday season with the Annual Holiday Tree Lighting on Saturday, Nov. 30 from 5 to 7 p.m. at 825 Tenth St. NW. e evening will include a music performance by headliner, Jordin Sparks, alongside the American Pops Orchestra, balloon artists, face painters, holiday treats and more. NBC4’s Eun Yang will host the o cial tree lighting ceremony and countdown. Enjoy the dazzling 75-foot tree, visit the two resident 25-foot reindeer, and capture the spirit of the holidays with a photo under the Palmer Alley Dream Closet art installation. citycenterdc.com.

DowntownDC Holiday Market Returns

e DowntownDC Holiday Market, which runs daily from Nov. 22 through Dec. 23, noon to 8 p.m. (closed anksgiving), transforms F Street NW between the National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum into a bustling holiday wonderland. e market features an array of vendor tents o ering handmade crafts, locally sourced holiday items, and unique gifts. Shoppers will enjoy seasonal treats, beverages, and live entertainment, making it a festive hub for all ages. e DowntownDC BID is partnering with e Makers Show, a women-owned retail platform known for its immersive marketplaces across the US, to enhance the vendor and visitor experience. downtowndc. org/go/downtowndc-holiday-market.

The International Spy Museum, 700 L’Enfant Plaza SW, is open Mondays and Fridays, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturdays and Sundays, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. spymuseum.org.

DC Museums for All rough Museums for All, those receiving food assistance (SNAP bene ts) can gain free or reduced admission to more than 1,300 museums throughout the United States simply by presenting their SNAP EBT card. e cost of museum admission can be a barrier for many low-income families. Participating museums provide reduced admission, ranging from free to $3, to visitors presenting their EBT card. is reduced rate is available during all normal operating hours to up to four individuals per EBT card. Participating DC museums are the International Spy Museum, Museum of the Bible, National Building Museum, National Children’s Museum and President Lincoln’s Cottage. museums4all.org.

DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in

DCHFA,

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 is your key to homeownership i 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 inthe city. is programo ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust homebuyer or a D.C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia

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.

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 first-time homebuyer or a D.C. resident to qualify for DCOD. You must, however, be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia.

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.

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

DC4ME

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

DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees.

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

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

COVID-19

DC4ME is offered to current fulltime District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower’s employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.

COVID-19

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

www.DCHFA.org

Full Moon Forest Bathing at the National Arboretum

On Nov. 15, 6 to 8:30 p.m., join a nature and forest therapy guide in this two-hour program that encourages you to slow down and take in the National Arboretum through all your senses. Forest bathing, or shinrin yoku, is the simple practice of taking in

Slice of Life Pie Sales

(Every bite makes a difference.)

Purchasing your Thanksgiving pies through Food & Friends’ Slice of Life is the sweetest way to give back this holiday season. When you buy a pie, not only will you receive a delicious pie baked fresh from Whisked bakery, you’ll also be supporting your neighbors with serious illnesses in the Greater Washington area. Each pie purchased from Food & Friends provides one full day of home-delivered meals. Now in its 19th year, Slice of Life has become a tradition in the metro area. The $30 pies are classic pumpkin, cherry, sweet potato and apple crumble; $40, nutty pecan; and $45, sea salt chocolate chess. Pie sales close on Tuesday, Nov. 19. Pick-up day is Tuesday, Nov. 26 and Thanksgiving is Thursday, Nov. 28. Pick-up sites close to the Hill and Anacostia are Call Your Moher Deli at 701 8th St. SE and Busboys and Poets at 2004 MLK Ave. sliceoflifedc.org.

the woods through the senses for health benefits. The benefits are immense: boosted immunity, lowered blood pressure and heart rate, improved attention and mood, and hitting the reset button on life. The Japanese have enjoyed shinrin yoku for decades as a regular public health initiative. While some people choose to walk extensively during this forest bathing walk, many others choose to sit and get to know specific areas of the collection. Each forest bathing walk will end with a modified tea ceremony— they will have small, pre-packaged snacks to close the walk. $35. eventbrite.com/cc/forest-bathingwalks-219409. usna.usda.gov.

Free Memory Screenings at Howard U. Hospital

If you are becoming forgetful, schedule a free memory screening at Howard University Hospital. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about memory, aging and Alzheimer’s Disease prevention and research. Call 202-865-3776 for an appointment.

Inaugural DC Risoprint Fair

The inaugural DC Risoprint Fair, presented by East City Art, takes place at Eastern Market’s North Hall, 225 Seventh St. SE, on Saturday, Nov. 23, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 24, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Celebrating the unique art of Risography—a hybrid of digital duplication and screen printing— this event features over two dozen artists, designers, and presses from DC, Baltimore, Brooklyn, Richmond, and Philadelphia, showcasing original prints, books, and cards. With its eco-friendly, soy-based ink and vibrant colors, RISO printing offers a retro aesthetic and subtle imperfections that make each piece unique. The fair is an excellent opportunity for new collectors, with many works priced accessibly. Visit risoprintfair.eastcityart.com for more details.

The US Capitol Christmas Tree Arrives

The US Capitol Christmas Tree arrives on the Capitol’s west lawn on Nov. 22. The tree’s 4,000-mile journey from Wrangell, Alaska to the US Capitol

Veterans Day Observance at Arlington National Cemetery

The National Veterans Day Observance is held each year at Arlington National Cemetery. A prelude concert begins in the Memorial Amphitheater at 10:30 a.m. on Nov. 11. A wreath-laying ceremony by the President takes place at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at 11 a.m. and will be followed by a speech by the President in the amphitheater. Space is limited to standing room only for the wreath-laying ceremony and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis in the amphitheater. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to ensure access to these events and should plan to be seated no later than 9:30 a.m. Arlington opens at 8 a.m. Parking is free and there are shuttle buses to the amphitheater. arlingtoncemetery.mil.

NGA Ice Rink Opens for Season

e Sculpture Garden Ice Rink season runs from Saturday, Nov. 23, through Sunday, March 2 (weather permitting). To celebrate the start of the season, the ice rink will host gure skaters from Team USA for pop-up performances at 11 a.m. on opening day, Nov 23. During the season, the ice rink will be open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday through ursday, and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday and Saturday. It is in the Sculpture Garden on the National Mall between Seventh and ninth streets along Constitution Avenue NW. Once the National Gallery closes at 5 p.m., visitors can access the ice rink via the entrances at Constitution Avenue and Madison Drive near Ninth Street. Skating sessions begin on the hour and last 45 minutes, leaving a 15-minute break for ice maintenance. Two back-toback sessions cost $12 for adults and children 13 and over. Adults 60 and over, children 12 and under, military service members, and students pay $10. Skate rental is $6. nga.gov.

building takes over three weeks. In early December, a tree lighting ceremony will take place, hosted by the Architect of the Capitol in coordination with the US Speaker of the House. More information on how to follow the 2024 US Capitol Christmas Tree’s journey online, including available social media channels, can be found at uscapitolchristmastree.com.

Volunteer for the National shrine Christmas Dinner

e Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, 400

Michigan Ave. NE, provides meals for hundreds of poor, homeless, elderly, and needy individuals living in the District of Columbia and surrounding areas on Christmas Day. Meals will be available for pick-up or delivery only. Volunteers are needed. Read more and sign up at nationalshrine.org/ event/2024-christmas-dinner.

Free Walk-in Legal Clinic at MLK Library

On the rst ursday of every month, you can speak with a lawyer from Neighborhood Legal Services Pro-

MOSAICO: Italian Code of a Timeless Art at the Dupont Underground

The Dupont Underground, 19 Dupont Circle NW, has announced the arrival of MOSAICO: Italian Code of a Timeless Art, a world-renowned exhibition organized by The Embassy of Italy to the United States, the Italian Cultural Institute of Washington, and the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. The exhibition explores the beauty and history of Italian mosaic art. This multimedia and immersive experience transforms the iconic space in Dupont Circle into a vibrant journey through centuries of artistic tradition, from ancient Rome to the treasures of Sicily. The exhibit is open through Feb. 2, Friday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $10; $8 for military, seniors and students. magister.art/en/exhibitions/mosaico-italian-code-of-a-timeless-art/world-tour.

gram at the MLK Library, 901 G St. NW. No appointment necessary. dclibrary.org.

DC Leaf Collection Begins

DC DPW has begun Leaf collection. Leaf collection can be disrupted due to the following: Weather events or unexpected operation modifications. Residents should rake leaves into the treebox, or the curb in front of the home if there is no tree box, on the Sunday before collection begins in their section. Check DPW’s website at dpw.dc.gov/leaf to confirm your area’s leaf collection dates.

Veteran’s Day Forest Bathing Walk

On Nov. 11, 9 to 11 a.m., slow down and open your senses to nature at the National Arboretum. During this two-hour program, Friends of the National Arboretum’s certified forest bathing guides invite you to reflect on the world around you and guide you through focused meditations. Forest bathing, or shinrin yoku, is the simple practice of taking in the woods through the senses for health benefits.

The benefits are immense: boosted immunity, lowered blood pressure and heart rate, improved attention and mood, and hitting the reset button on life. The Japanese have enjoyed shinrin yoku for decades as a regular public health initiative. Registration is required for this event. The suggested ticket price is $35, but please pay what you can to attend. fona.org.

DC Hypothermia Alerts

Hypothermia alerts are activated when the National Weather Service forecasted temperature, including wind chill, is or will be 32° F or below; or, when the temperature is forecasted to be 40° F or below, and the forecasted chance of precipitation is fifty percent or greater. Transportation to shelter is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you see someone outside in need of shelter or a welfare check, call the Shelter Hotline at 202-399-7093 or dial 311. If there is an immediate risk to safety call 911. When calling, include the time, the address or location of the sighting, and a description of the person’s appearance. Families experiencing homelessness can also call the shelter hotline at 202-399-7093 or visit the Virginia

Williams Family Resource Center at 920-A Rhode Island Ave. NE. dhs.dc.gov/extremeweather.

Do you have a notice for the Bulletin Board?

The Mid-city DC Bulletin Board includes event notices, volunteer opportunities and other community news. I you have a notice, send it to bulletinboard@ hillrag.com. u

Judy Woodruff on Media and Democracy

On Monday, Nov. 18, 6:30 p.m., join Judy Woodruff, veteran PBS NewsHour anchor, as she delivers the inaugural Patty Isacson Sabee Fellow lecture at Planet Word, 925 13th St. NW. Drawing from her cross-country reporting, Judy will explore media, democracy, and the power of words to shape our nation’s future. Judy’s reporting over a five-decade career demonstrates the critical importance of listening to others, reflecting on their words, and building community. Her work reflects how a careful adherence to truthful journalism builds an informed citizenry and strengthens democracy. The tenor of the 2024 election proves this approach is more urgent than ever. $15. planetwordmuseum.org.

CHANGING HANDS

Changing Hands is a list of most residential sales in the Midcity DC area 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.

NOMA

Kids & Family

Washington National Opera’s Jungle Book

From Dec. 13 to 15, step into the jungle, where adventure awaits. Orphaned child Mowgli seeks refuge with a group of wolves deep in the jungle. Should the pack accept Mowgli as its own, even if it makes an enemy of the dangerous tiger Shere Khan? WNO’s holiday opera returns for all ages with a new take on the Kipling classic from Kamala Sankaram and Kelley Rourke. The beloved story gets a contemporary twist with music from South Asian and Western music traditions and mesmerizing Bollywood dance from Indian classical dance company Taal. Join Mowgli, Baloo, Bagheera, and more animal characters for a heartwarming tale about friendship, compassion, and forgiveness. The jungle may be filled with dangers but there is strength in chosen family. Performances are Dec. 13, 7 p.m.; Dec. 14 and 15, noon and 5 p.m.; $25 to $49. kennedy-center.gov.

Season’s Greenings at the Botanic Garden

From Nov. 28 (Thanksgiving) to Jan. 5, daily, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed Christmas Day), this year’s Season’s Greenings features thousands of poinsettias, DC landmarks made from plants inside the Conservatory, model trains in the outdoor gardens, and festive lights and decor throughout the Garden. In the gated outdoor gardens, G-gauge model trains chug through pollinator sculptures made from plants, showcasing an orchid bee pollinating a vanilla orchid flower, a lemur pollinating a traveler’s tree flower, a bat pollinating a banana flower, pollinators of native US flowers like milkweed and lobelia, and more. The Botanic Garden is at the southwest corner of the Capitol grounds. Free admission. usbg.gov.

On the lawn in the gated outdoor gardens, Ggauge model trains circulate from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily, through displays of pollinators made from plant parts.

Girls on the Run DC Community 5k

The Girls on the Run DC Community 5k is on Sunday, Nov. 24 at The Field at RFK, 401 Oklahoma Ave. NE. Arrival and pre-race festivities start at 9 a.m.; race starts at 10 a.m. While the fastest 5k participants will complete the course in 25 minutes, most cross the finish line in 30-50 minutes. Everyone who participates is encouraged to walk, roll, push, run or skip at their own pace. Registration is $45; $50, day-of. At Girls on the Run Washington DC teaching critical life skills is the cornerstone of their research-based programs. Meeting in small teams, trained volunteer coaches inspire girls of all abilities to strengthen confidence and other important life skills through dynamic, interactive lessons and physical activity. gotrdc.org/5k.

Thanksgiving Day’s Little Turkey One-Miler

This Thanksgiving, be part of a time-honored DC tradition— SOME’s 23rd Annual Thanksgiving Day Trot for Hunger 5k. As the largest and only DC-based Trot in the region, they welcome race participants to Freedom Plaza for the timed or untimed 5k, their Little Turkey One-Miler and the familyfriendly finisher festival. The Little Turkey race starts at 7:30 a.m. and is for ages ten and under. Registration is $15. The 5k run/walk starts at 8:30 a.m. Registration is $65. Funds raised from America’s Trot for Hunger help benefit thousands of our DC neighbors, including families and the elderly, by providing much-needed food, housing, access to healthcare, employment training, and long-term comprehensive substance use disorder treatment programs. trotforhunger.org.

Photo: J Yen

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• Visual Arts, Music,

Performing Arts, Technology Courses

• Sports and extracurricular activities, before and aftercare programming

• Free campus-to-campus shuttle for all students

• 77% of Meridian 8th grade students accepted into Tier 1 or selective D.C. high schools

Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show at Arena Stage.

As the world’s first holiday show highlighting the African American tradition of stepping, Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show is a feast for the eyes and ears. Furry friends from the Arctic Kingdom—Popper the Penguin and Polo the Polar Bear—along with DJ Nutcracker ensure a fun and exciting experience for the entire family. $59 to $99. Step Afrika!’s Magical Musical Holiday Step Show is at Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SW, from Dec. 13 to 22. arenastage.org.

Tiny Lights: Tales for Chanukah

From Dec. 7 to 15, three masterful storytellers take on more than 40 roles as they bring us into the magical world of Isaac Bashevis Singer’s famed folktales. Created and directed by award-winning artists and Theater J favorites Aaron Posner and Erin Weaver, this funny and fast-moving show uses simple props and the art of storytelling to transport us to different worlds. Tiny Lights is for families with children aged three to nine. Tickets are $12 to $27. Theater J is at 1529 16th St. NW. edcjcc.org/theater-j.

Hill Family Biking: Holiday Lights Ride

On Dec. 14, 4:30 p.m., join Hill Family Biking for a special holiday, nighttime edition of Hill Family Biking. Adorn yourself and your bikes with lights to tour around some of the best holiday lights on Capitol Hill. They’ll provide glow sticks for all participants to help light up the night. They’ll also have volunteers marshaling to ensure everyone stays together as a group. The MPD bike team will also be participating in the ride to connect officers with the community. If your family’s bikes need some TLC, come 15 minutes early to get some help–they will have bike maintenance tools available, as well as some experienced amateur bike mechanics on hand to assist. The ride starts at Maury Elementary Parking Lot on 12th

Pl. NE. There is post ride fun from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Register on eventbrite.com.

Placita Mágica Exhibit at National Children’s Museum

Through Jan. 3, explore Mexican cultural traditions in this enchanting plaza bursting with STEAM concepts and interactive play. The immersive setting includes decoration, architecture, and cityscape silhouettes of Mexican cities that expand the worldview and sense of place for young learners. In Mexico, plazas function as gathering spots where communities come together. Join them at Placita Mágica to gather, celebrate, and play. Recommended for ages three and older. Admission is $18.95 for adults and children one and older. The National Children’s Museum, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every day except Tuesdays. nationalchildrensmuseum.org.

NMAAHC Kids Connect: Thankful To Be Me

On Thursday, Nov. 21, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., come connect with history and culture through art and play at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, 1400 Constitution Ave. NW. This month, learn about the many ways we can express our unique identities and celebrate what makes you YOU with a special project and reading corner. On Dec. 19, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., celebrate Kwanzaa, learn about the seven principles of the holiday and create art inspired by African and African American stories. These programs are designed for ages three to eight. Email the NMAAHC Kids team at NMAAHCEarlyChildhood@si.edu.

Zoolights

Zoolights allows you to meander through the National Zoo, 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW, when it is covered with thousands of sparkling lights, attend special keeper talks and enjoy live entertainment. Zoolights returns this year on Nov. 22 to Jan. 4; 5 to 9 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays; 5 to 8 p.m., on Sundays. Zoo members only on Dec. 5 and 12 and Jan. 2. $6 admission. Each attendee, including children over the age of two, needs a ticket. $30 to park. nationalzoo.si.edu.

Family Days at the LOC

On Saturday, Nov. 9, Veterans Day, learn about the Victory Gardens that played an important role on the home front during the world wars. Decorate a plant pot to encourage the start of a garden at home. On Thursday, Dec. 26 to Saturday, Dec. 28, create holiday cards, bookmarks and more using beautiful imagery from Library winter- themed collections as inspiration. Drop in anytime between 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Library of Congress, 101 Independence Ave. SE. visit@loc.gov.

Handel’s Messiah Family Concert at the National Cathedral

On Saturday, Dec. 7, noon, experience the best of Messiah with the whole family: an abbreviated performance (90 minutes) of Messiah highlights, perfect for busy families with young children. Film with live orchestra. Ticket price range is $25 to $120. cathedral.org.

Douglass Oratorical Contest Applications Open

Students between the ages of six to eighteen can participate in the Frederick Douglass Oratorical Contest and learn to be a confident public speaker. Frederick Douglass learned to give speeches from reading The Columbian Orator, a book he bought for 50 cents. Applications are accepted through Nov. 16. The contest dates are Dec. 3 to 7. Apply on-line or in person at the Frederick Douglass Visitor Center, 1411 W St. SE. Deaf and hard of hearing students are welcome. For contest information and an application go to nps.gov/frdo.

DC’s Holiday Boat Parade at

Alexandria’s Scottish Christmas Walk Parade and Concert

On Saturday, Dec. 7, (rain or shine), 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., this family-oriented parade begins at St. Asaph and Wolfe Streets and concludes at Old Town’s Market Square with a massed band concert at 1 p.m. campagnacenter.org/scottishwalkweekend.

The Wharf

On Saturday, Dec. 7, starting at 6 p.m., celebrate the holidays with this iconic DC event that features 60+ beautifully decorated boats parading along the Washington Channel. Party to live music from Yani the Band on District Pier and get into the spirit with ornament decorating, holiday karaoke, s’mores at Camp Wharf, and visits with Santa. Fireworks concludes the boat parade at 8 p.m. wharfdc.com/boatparade.

Discovery Theater’s Grandma’s

Thanksgiving Visit

Grandma’s here! Let’s start making puppets, cooking together, washing the car, and learning about fun ways to celebrate with friends and family. This musical play with great heart features singing, nger play, and call-and-response as we all give thanks for being together. Grandma’s Thanksgiving Visit is from Nov. 19 to 21, 10:15 and 11:30 a.m. at the Smithsonian Ripley Center, 1100

Jefferson Dr. SW. It is recommended for ages three to six. Individual tickets are $7 for kids; $8 for adults; $3 for under two. discoverytheater.org.

Discovery Theater’s Seasons of Light

Joy, warmth and community illuminate seasonal holiday celebrations the world over. This signature Discovery Theater show celebrates the history and customs of Diwali (Devali), Chanukah, Las Posadas, Ramadan, Sankta Lucia Day, Kwanzaa, Christmas, and the First Nations’ tradition of the Winter Solstice in an interactive event that bridges communities and cultures. Seasons of Light is at Discovery Theater on select weekdays from Dec. 2 to 20, 10:15 and 11:30 a.m.; and an additional performance on Dec. 6, 11, and 13 at 1 p.m. It is recommended for grades K through fth. Individual tickets are $8 for children and $9 for adults. This show always sells out. Discovery Theater’s Ripley Center is at 1100 Jefferson Dr. SW (on the National Mall). discoverytheater.org. ◆

Our diverse and interconnected community of PK3s through 4th Graders redefines high-quality education by pairing Montessori with Anti-Bias/Anti-Racist practices. We create a joyful learning environment where children and families flourish and can show up authentically as their true selves.