MidCity DC Magazine August 2011

MIDCITY AUGUST 2011

CONTENTS AUGUST 2011 08 10

Hit the City • Joy Hopkins Calendar • Kathleen Donner

MLK special section 17 20

17 22

out and about 22 24 26 27

Insatiable • Celeste McCall Retail Therapy • Scott Fazzini Island and Soul Food at Andrene’s • Celeste McCall Jazz Avenues • Steve Monroe

your neighborhood 28 29 30 31 32 33

40

A King for Washington and DC • Derek Musgrove MLK Memorial Dedication Events

The Nose • Anonymous District Beat • Martin Austermuhle The Numbers: Retail Politics • Kwame Boadi and Elissa Silverman Logan Circles • Mark F. Johnson 14th & U • Catherine Finn Shaw Streets • Ralph Brabham

kids and family 34

Kids and Family Notebook • Kathleen Donner

at home 38 40 41

Home/Style: “Opportunities” to Save on Home Decor • Mark F. Johnson Garden Fairy • Sarah McLauglin Changing Hands • Don Denton

42

Classifieds

COVER: Rendering of the new Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial. Image courtesy of the Washington, DC Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial Project Foundation, Inc. (c) 2010 - 2011. All Rights Reserved.

capitalcommunitynews.com â—† 5

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Capital Community News, Inc. 224 7th Street, SE, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20003 202.543.8300 • www.capitalcommunitynews.com EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Melissa Ashabranner melissaashabranner@hillrag.com EDITORIAL STAFF

KIDS & FAMILY

MANAGING EDITOR: Andrew Lightman andrew@hillrag.com CFO & ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Maria Carolina Lopez carolina@hillrag.com SCHOOL NOTES EDITOR: SUSAN BRAUN JOHNSON SCHOOLS@HILLRAG.COM KIDS & FAMILY NOTEBOOK EDITOR: KATHLEEN DONNER KATHLEEN.DONNER@GMAIL.COM

Kathleen Donner • kathleen.donner@gmail.com Susan Johnson • schools@hillrag.com

SOCIETY & EVENTS Mickey Thompson • socialsightings@aol.com

HOMES & GARDENS

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT ART: Jim Magner • jjmagner@aol.com DINING: Celeste McCall • celeste@hillrag.com HIT THE CITY: Joylyn Hopkins • joylyn@joylynhopkins.com LITERATURE: Karen Lyon • klyon@folger.edu MOVIES: Mike Canning • mjcanning@verizon.net MUSIC: Jean-Keith Fagon • fagon@hillrag.com RETAIL THERAPY: Scott Fazzini • scott.fazzini@gmail.com THEATER: Barbara Wells • barchardwells@aol.com TRAVEL: Maggie Hall • whitby@aol.com THE WINE GUYS: Jon Genderson • jon@cellar.com

CALENDAR & BULLETIN BOARD HILL RAG, MIDCITY DC & EAST OF THE RIVER: CALENDAR EDITOR: Kathleen Donner calendar@hillrag.com, bulletinboard@hillrag.com

GENERAL ASSIGNMENT Michelle Evans • invisiblecolours@yahoo.com Celeste McCall • celeste@hillrag.com Heather Schoell • hschoell@verizon.net Virginia Avniel Spatz • virginia@hillrag.com Peter Waldron • peter@hillrag.com Kathleen Donner • kathleen.donner@gmail.com Stephanie Deutsch • scd@his.com Melanie Sunukjian • melsunuk@gmail.com Shannon Holloway • holloway.shannon@gmail.com Alice Ollstein • alice.ollstein@gmail.com Amanda Abrahams • manda.abrams@gmail.com Lex Kiefhaber • lexk24@gmail.com Roberta Weiner • rweiner_us@yahoo.com Gwyn Jones • gwynjones@aol.com John H. Muller • jmuller.washingtonsyndicate@gmail.com

Rindy O’Brien - Hill Gardener • rindyob@mac.com Derek Thomas • derek@thomaslandscapes.com Judith Capen • judith.capen@architravepc.com HomeStyle: Mark Johnson • mark@hillrag.com

NEWS & NEIGHBORHOOD REPORTS ANC6A, 6B, 6C, 6D:

Roberta Weiner • rweiner_us@yahoo.com • gwynjones@aol.com BARRACKS ROW: sharon@barracksrow.org H STREET LIFE: Elise Bernard • inked78@hotmail.com THE NOSE: thenose@hillrag.com LOGAN CIRCLE • mark@hillrag.com SHAW • Ralph Brabham: Ralph • ralphbrabham@yahoo.com BLOOMINGDALE: Eleanor Gourley • ecgourley@gmail.com 14TH & U: Catherine Finn • cathefinn@gmail.com ANC6B: GWYN JONES

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BEAUTY, HEALTH & FITNESS

DEADLINES & CONTACTS

Patricia Cinelli • fitmiss44@aol.com Ronda Bresnick Hauss, LCSW • www.quietwaterscenter.com quiet_waters_center@yahoo.com Peter Sherer • Peter@expmatters.com

ADVERTISING: sales@hillrag.com DISPLAY ADS: 15th of each month CLASSIFIED ADS: 10th of each month EDITORIAL: 15th of each month; submissions@hillrag.com BULLETIN BOARD & CALENDAR: 15th of each month; calendar@hillrag.com, bulletinboard@hillrag.com

We welcome suggestions for stories. Send queries to andrew@hillrag.com.

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PUBLISHER: JEAN-KEITH FAGON • fagon@hillrag.com Copyright © 2010 by Capital Community News. All Rights Reserved.

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by Joy Hopkins Keegan Theatre Ends Their Season with Steel Magnolias As we reach the steamy heat of mid-summer, most theater companies in the area are winding down, if not finished wirh, their 2010-2011 seasons. And Keegan Theatre closes its program year with a production of Robert Harling’s modern classic, Steel Magnolias.

The story is that of six small-town southern belles and the developments in their lives over a three-year period – weddings, divorces, births and deaths. The title is a reference to the female characters, who are “as delicate as magnolias, but as tough as steel.” The play premiered in 1987 and was subsequently the subject of a well-known screen adaptation of the same name. Unlike the movie,

the play features only its six female characters, and all the action takes place in the single setting of the beauty parlor one of them runs out of her house.

Harling originally wrote the play as a short story to deal with the death of his sister of complications from diabetes.

Keegan’s producing artistic director, Mark A. Rhea, leads a production team and cast that are about half-filled with Keegan company members.

Steel Magnolias runs through August 21, Thursdays through Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. with Sunday matinees at 3:00 p.m.

Tickets are $35 or $30 for students and seniors. The August 19 performance is a benefit for the American Diabetes Association; tickets for the benefit performance are $50.

Sheri S.Herren, Larissa Gallagher, Jane Petkofsky, and Brianna Letourneau in Steel Magnolias production photo by Jim Coates.

8 ◆ Midcity DC | August 2011

Lifelines. Courtesy of Irvine Contemporary and the Artist, Oliver Vernon.

Keegan Theatre 1742 Church Street NW 703-892-0202 www.keegantheatre.com.

Irvine Contemporary Showcases Artists in its Final Exhibition on 14th Street This summer, Irvine Contemporary celebrates its tenth anniversary, including more than five years at its current, 14th Street location. At the end of August, Irvine will move out of its current location.

The gallery marks the occasion with its Tribute exhibitions. Artist Tribute 1 closed on July 16, making way for Artist Tribute 2.

Artist Tribute 2 features 10 artists: Shepard Fairey, Gaia, Melissa Ich-

iuji, Hedieh Ilchi, Akemi Maegawa, Sebastian Martorana, Alexa Meade, Susana Raab, Kerry Skarbakka, and Oliver Vernon. Many of the artists are local to the D.C. Metro area. Media used ranges from printmaking and graphic design to painting to drawing to sculpture. The exhibit features both new and previously shown works.

Also, as part of their celebration, Irvine has been producing several special events throughout the summer. On August 20, Alexa Meade will give a live portrait painting performance at 1 p.m. The exhibition closing the following week will be accompanied by a Grand Finale Block Party featuring music and art performances yet to be announced.

Irvine Contemporary specializes in contemporary art by early and mid-career artists with growing national and international reputations.

Artist Tribute 2 runs through August 27.

Irvine Contemporary is open to the public Tuesdays through Saturdays, from 11 a.m.

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Tribute to Nina Simone and Miriam Makeba at Bohemian Caverns D.C. native Akua Allrich, a rising young vocalist and composer, will perform a musical

Akua Allrich

tribute to two of her greatest musical inspirations, Nina Simone and Miriam Makeba.

Allrich studied jazz vocals at Howard University. She lists talented musicians such as singer Kehembe V. Eichelberger, singer/ drummer Grady Tate, and pianist Charles Covington among her teachers, coaches, and mentors. Her musical roots run deeply

into blues, jazz and rhythm and blues.

Nina Simone’s career spanned more than 50 years, with more than 30 commercial releases. Known for her deep voice and her civil rights activism, Simone’s musical style reflected her love of classical, gospel, jazz, and blues. Simone died in 2003. Miriam Makeba, known as Mama Africa, was a Grammy-winning South African singer.

Makeba, also a civil rights activist, died in 2008.

Akua Allrich’s tribute to Nina Simone and Miriam Makeba runs August 19 and 20, 2011. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. for the 8:30 p.m. performances and 10 p.m. for the 10:30 p.m. performances. The performance has a running time of approximately one hour. Tickets are $18 in advance or $23 at the door.

Bohemian Caverns first opened in 1926 as Club Caverns in the basement of a drugstore. It has been the home of many legendary jazz performances for more than 80 years. Bohemian Caverns also proudly supports local music.

Bohemian Caverns 2001 11th Street NW 202-2990800 www.bohemiancaverns. com

Joy Hopkins has been a resident of the District of Columbia for more than 13 years. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Music Industry from James Madison University and a Master’s degree in Arts Management from American University. She is a Jill-of-alltrades, working as a nonprofit fundraiser, a direct sales consultant, and an artist rep. Her interests include reading, wine, music, crochet, and food. ◆

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AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD El Debarge In Concert. Saturday, Aug. 13, 8:00 PM. Experience the smooth soulful sounds of Grammy Award nominee El Debarge. One of R&B’s most distinctive and celebrated voices will perform his signature hits. $55-$65. Lincoln Theater, 1215 U St. NW. 202-328-6000. thelincolntheatre.org African American Civil War Museum Relocated. Museum relocated to 1925 Vermont Ave. NW. Hours are Tuesday-Friday, 10:00 AM-6:30 PM; Saturday, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM; Sunday, noon-4:00 PM. 202-667-2667. afroamcivilwar.org

AUGUST seum and focuses on forensic linguistics, which is what was used to lead to his arrest. $15.95-$21.95. 575 Seventh St. NW. 202-393-1099. crimemuseum.org African American Heritage Trail 100th Marker. On Aug. 23, 10:00 AM, Cultural Tourism DC will unveil the 100th plaque on the African American Heritage Trail, at 931 R St. NW, the site of Fire Engine Company No. 4, the first all African-American fire company. Since the first plaque was unveiled in Feb. 2006 at the Recorder of Deeds Building, Cultural Tourism DC has worked to identify and mark historically significant sites in African American history throughout Washington, DC. The African American Heritage Trail comprises a searchable database of more than 200 historically sig-

nificant sites throughout the city, a guide book featuring 15 neighborhood walking trails, and now 100 plaques marking sites throughout the city. CulturalTourismDC.org Agape Faith Ministries Back to School Community Festival. Sept. 3, noon-4:00 PM. Join them for a day fun filled packed day of activities, give-a-ways and information to help us all live healthier lives. Event features free food, music, free school supplies and a moon bounce. Special guest Dr. Velonda Thompson, nutritionist and wellness expert, will provide several mini nutrition workshops and a cooking demonstration. Contact Minister Tamara Smalls at 202-903-5696 or tamarasmalls@ gmail.com or more information. 1401 Fairmont Street, NW

Shakespeare Theatre Free-For-All Presents Julius Caesar. Aug.18-Sept. 4 (daily, except Mondays). As swift and enthralling as a political thriller, Julius Caesar portrays the life-and-death struggle for power in Rome.

Fearing that Caesar’s growing strength and imperial ambitions threaten the Republic, a faction of politicians plots to assassinate him. But when Caesar is killed, chaos engulfs Rome. Alive with stunning rhetoric, Julius Caesar investigates the intoxicating effects of power and the dangers of idealism. In Caesar, Brutus and the young Marc Antony, Shakespeare created three fascinating, dynamic characters. Sidney Harman Hall, 610 F St. NW. Ticket distribution is by online lottery. shakespearetheatre.org Reggie Watts at Woolly. Aug. 23-26. Reggie Watts—hailed by GQ magazine as “the coolest comedian on the planet” and handpicked by Conan O’Brien to open nightly on Conan’s entire North American “Prohibited From Being Funny on Television” tour—is a comedian and musician whose improvised musical sets have graced both international stages and late-night television. Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, 641 D St. NW. 202-393-3939. woollymammoth.net Unabomber Exhibit Opens. The Unabomber exhibit is the newest permanent fixture on display at the National Museum of Crime & Punishment. The exhibit will feature three lots from the auction purchased by the museum in a recent government auction; a hand bowed wood saw, a Hanson model 1509 scale (both used in his bomb creation), and Kaczynski’s passport photo.

The Unabomber Exhibit will be located within the CSI/Forensic section of the mu-

10 ◆ Midcity DC | August 2011

SUMMER MUSIC 1812 Overture on the Washington Monument Grounds. On Tuesday, August 16 at 8:00 PM, U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own,” and the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) Presidential Salute Battery perform Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture at the Sylvan Theater on the grounds of the Washington Monument.. “The Year 1812, Festival Overture in E flat major, Opus 49” popularly known as the 1812 Overture is an overture written by Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky in 1880 to commemorate Russia’s defense of Moscow against Napoleon’s advancing Grande Armée at the Battle of Borodino in 1812. The overture is best known for its climactic volley of cannon fire and ringing chimes. usarmyband.com Folklife Concert at the Library of Congress. Aug. 17 and 24, noon. Coolidge Auditorium in Jefferson Building (First St. between E. Capitol St. and Independence Ave. SE). 202-707-5510. loc.gov Summer Rhythms and Food Truck Roundup at The Wharf. Fridays, 6:00-8:00 PM. Thursday, Friday and Saturday activities at The Wharf also include Bean Baggo, table tennis and Bocce. The Wharf is a free neighborhood WiFi hotspot. Seventh and Water sts. SW (7th Street Landing). swdcwaterfront.com Military Band Concerts at the US Capitol.

Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays in summer (weather permitting). 8:00 PM. Mondays, US Navy Band; Tuesdays, US Air Force Band; Wednesdays, US Marine Band; Fridays, US Army Band. Free. West Terrace US Capitol Building.

Riot Act Comedy Theater Opens in Penn Quarter DC’s Penn Quarter will soon become even more filled with entertainment and amusement with the grand opening of a new, über-comedy club and event facility. The state-of-the-art Riot Act Comedy Theater--a revolutionary laughter venue showcasing major national headliners and budding local talent--is slated to open on Wednesday, Aug. 3 in the heart of Penn Quarter near the Verizon Center and National Spy Museum.

The two-story, 13,000 sq. ft. facility with a 330 seat showroom at 801 E St. NW will feature a host of collective offerings that include a School of Comedy, movie screen backdrop, weekly open “mic” nights, cabaretstyle dining with full table service, digital recording capabilities and high-tech broadcast resources. riotactcomedy.com

Navy Band “Concerts on the Avenue.”

Tuesdays, 8:00 PM. US Navy Memorial. The United States Navy Band and its specialty groups will perform. Free. Seventh and Penn. Ave. NW. 202-737-2300. navymemorial.org Summer Organ Concerts at the National Shrine. Sunday evenings, 6:00 PM (5:30 PM performance of the Knight’s Tower Carillon). Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. All are welcome to come and hear music from the majestic pipe organ of the Great Upper Church. Free.

400 Michigan Ave. NE. 202-526-8300. nationalshirne.com

THANK YOU!

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OUTDOOR MOVIES Screen on the Green. Monday, Aug. 15, Cool Hand Luke. National Mall between Eighth and 14th sts. Screen on the Green Hotline, 1-877-262-5866 U Street Movie Series. Aug. 23 (rain date, Aug. 25). Short: City of Cranes. Feature: National Treasure 2: Book of Secrets. Showtime at sundown. Gates will open at 7:00 PM. Movie shown at the Harrison Recreation Center field, V St. between 13th and 14th sts. NW. Free admission. Attendees are encouraged to come early to picnic in the park and listen to music spun by local DJs. Free popcorn will be provided to the first 100 attendees. In collaboration with the AFI Silverdocs Festival, prior to the feature film will be a screening of a short documentary featured at a previous AFI Silverdocs Festival. movies.ustreet-dc.org

SPORTS, DANCE AND PHYSICAL FITNESS

Eckington Bloomingdale Truxton Circle

Art Walk installations will be on display through the month of August. Be sure to visit North Capitol Main Street businesses along the way. Walking map and artist details can be found at northcapitolartwalk.wordpress.com

brought to you by:

www.ncmsinc.org

Workout for Free at WSC. Washington Sports Clubs is encouraging Washingtonians to take their workouts indoors to escape the heat. Clubs citywide will open their doors to the public for free workouts every time the thermometer hits 90 degrees through August. This offer allows access all hours except 4:30-7:30 PM Monday-Thursday and can be redeemed by referencing the “heat wave promotion” at the front desk of any WSC club. Participants must be at least 18 years of age and will need to show photo id. To find a club, visit, mysportsclubs.com.

US National Arboretum Full Moon Hikes.

September, October, and November hikes will be posted for registration on Monday, Aug. 1. They always fill up so register early. 202-245-4521. usna.usda.gov Ladies Night at Nationals Park. Thursday, Aug. 18 vs. Reds. Ticket package will include special group seating, access to the pre-game party featuring: Tickets at nationals.com/ladiesnight.

DC United Soccer Home Matches. Aug. 13 and 27, 7:30 PM. $23-$52. RFK Stadium.

202-587-5000. dcunited.com

capitalcommunitynews.com ◆ 11

United Drives to collect school supplies during month of August. Throughout the 2011 Major League Soccer season, DC United collects items at every home game to benefit pre-determined non-profit organizations within the Washington, DC Metropolitan Area. This month, the club will collect school supplies to benefit United for DC and its six adopted schools.

As a DC United signature program, United Drives assigns a different charity drive for each month of the MLS regular season, including the collection of games, toys, food, children’s books, and soccer equipment. All fans that donate an item will receive a “Buy One, Get One Free” ticket voucher, redeemable for a 2011 regular season home game. The collection bin on game days is located at the United Drives Booth outside RFK Stadium’s Gate A, and is open from two hours prior to the game until 15 minutes after kickoff. Donations are also accepted in the D.C. United offices on non-game days, located on the fourth floor of Gate A. 202-587-5000. dcunited.com Washington Mystics Basketball Home Games. Aug. 18, 20 and 23, 7:00 PM. Aug. 28, 4:00 PM. $10-$80. Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. wnba.com Sunday Road Ride. Every Sunday, meet at 8:30 AM, depart by 8:45 AM. The Bike Rack. A 40-mile, moderately paced ride that emphasizes group riding techniques, newcomers to the group riding are welcome as riders regroup throughout, so that nobody is left behind. Helmets mandatory. Free. 1412 Q St. NW. 202-387BIKE. bikerackdc.com.

Saturday Road Ride. Every Saturday, meet at 10 AM, depart by 10:15 AM. The Bike Rack. The Saturday ride is more of an introductory ride and caters to road riders who are new to the sport, hybrid riders intimidated by the faster pace of the Sunday ride, and anyone who just wants a shorter (approx. 20 to 30 miles) and slower (12 to 14 mph) pace. Helmets mandatory. Free. 1412 Q St. NW. 202-387BIKE. bikerackdc.com.

Shaw Skate Park. A new 11,000 sq. foot skate park has opened in the Shaw neighborhood. 11th and Rhode Island Ave. NW. Kung Fu and Tai Chi at the Historical Society of Washington, DC. Every Saturday (rain or shine). Kung Fu, noon; Tai Chi, 1:00 PM. Suitable for all ages. Kung Fu is a broad term that is used to describe all martial arts of Chinese origin. The ancient art of Tai Chi is a style of Kung Fu that emphasizes internal energy. Free. No RSVP required. Historical Society of Washington, DC, 801 K St. NW (Mount Vernon Square). 202-383-1850. historydc.org Pick-up Field Hockey on the Mall. Every Monday at 6:00 PM. Meets at the fields in front of the Smithsonian Metro stop for males and females who have a passion for field hockey. No experience necessary.

Bring water, shinguards, mouthguard,

12 ◆ Midcity DC | August 2011

cleats, a field hockey stick, and either a reversible jersey or a light and dark shirt - no grays please. Free.

Nearby public tennis courts. Banneker Community Center (eight outdoor tennis courts), 2500 Georgia Ave. NW. 202-6736861. Kennedy Recreation Center (one outdoor tennis court), 1401 Seventh St. NW. 202-671-4794. All courts are open daily, dawn to dusk. Some are lighted for extended evening play. Courts are available on a first-come, first-served basis for one-hour intervals; extended use of tennis courts requires a permit. Proper shoes and attire is required. 202-671-0314. dpr. dc.gov/dpr Nearby outdoor public pools. Francis Pool, 2435 N St. NW; East Potomac Pool, 972 Ohio Dr. SW; Randall Pool, S. Capitol and I sts. SW. All DC public pools are free for DC residents. Have ID. dpr.dc.gov Nearby indoor public swimming pools.

Turkey Thicket, 1100 Michigan Ave. NE. Open Monday through Friday, 6:30 AM8:00 PM; Saturday, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM; closed, Sunday. 202-576-9236. Rumsey Pool, 635 No.Carolina Ave. SE. Open Monday through Friday, 6:30 AM-9:00 AM and noon-9:00 PM; Saturday, 1:00-5:00 PM; Sunday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM. 202-7244495. The pools are free for DC residents.

Have ID with you. dpr.dc.gov

MARKETS Liberty North Community Market. Open Saturdays and Sundays, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM. The market will have 80-100 vendors selling art, crafts, food, and produce. Fifth and Eye sts. NW. libertynorthcommunitymarket.com 14th and U Farmers’ Market. Saturdays, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM. At the corner of 14th and U sts. NW.

FIND LOCAL WARD 5 BUSINESSES, EVENTS & SPECIALS

www.ward5dconline.com This directory was made possible by a grant from the DC Dept. of Housing and Community Development and the Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

INTERESTED IN PURCHASING A HOME?

Bloomingdale Farmers’ Market. Sundays, through November, 10:00 AM-2:00 PM. This is a seasonal open air producer-only market. First and R sts. NW. 9th and U Flea Market. Saturdays and Sundays, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. Ninth and U sts. NW. Friends in the Market “Funky Flea Market” with a DJ. Saturdays and Sundays, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM. New and used clothing, tools, furniture, jewelry, plants, soaps, art, CD’s, videos and electronics. 6th St. NE (north of Florida Ave. beside DC Farmers Market). 202-399-6040.

Eastern Market. Daily except Mondays and important holidays. Weekdays, 7:00 AM-7:00 PM; Saturdays, 7:00 AM-5:00 PM; Sundays, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. Flea market and arts and crafts market open Saturdays and Sundays, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM. Eastern Market is Washington’s last continually operated “old world” market. On weekends the market area comes alive with farmers bringing in fresh produce, craft and flower

HOMEBUYER EDUCATION WORKSHOPS FOR SUMMER 2011 SATURDAYS 9 AM - 5 PM Aug. 6th & 27th • Sept. 10th & 17th

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visit us at www.NCRC.org capitalcommunitynews.com ◆ 13

vendors, artists, a flea market and street musicians. 200 block of 7th St. SE. 202698-5253. easternmarket-dc.com

CIVIC LIFE Commission on the Arts and Humanities Grants Workshops. Aug. 15 and 17, 2:30 PM. 1371 Harvard St. NW. 202724-5613. dcarts.dc.gov Eckington Neighborhod Dog Park Organizing Committee. Persons interested in joining a committee to begin the process of establishing a dog park near the Harry Thomas Sr. Rec Center, contact Sylvia Pinkney at 5C02@ANC.dc.gov.

Chinatown Revitalization Council.

Fourth Monday, 7:00-8:00 PM. 510 I St. NW. Chinatown Revitalization Council (CRC) promoting the Chinatown renewal and the preservation of its cultural heritage. This meeting is slated to be the first perpetual monthly meeting except summer/winter recess with participation of representatives from the city government, civic organizations, developers, CRC members. The public is welcome.

Convention Center Community Association. Last Tuesday, 7:00-8:30 PM. Kennedy Rec Center, 1401 Seventh St. NW. www.ccca-online.

Downtown Neighborhood Association Monthly Meeting. Second Tuesday, 7:00-9:00 PM. US Naval Memorial Center, 701 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. miles@ dcdna.org. dcdna.org

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East Central Civic Association (ECCA) of Shaw Meeting. First Monday, 7:00 PM. Third Baptist Church, 1546 Fifth St. NW. Contact: Al Hajj Mahdi Leroy J Thorpe Jr, 202-387-1596.

Eckington Civic Association. First Monday, 7:00-8:30 PM. Harry Thomas Recreation Center, 1743 Lincoln Rd. NE. www. eckingtondc.org Logan Circle Citizens Association.

Please contact Jennifer Trock at jennifer.trock@logancircle.org for meeting dates and times. logancircle.org Mount Vernon Square Neighborhood Association Meeting. Third Tuesday, 7:30-9:30 PM. Yale Steam Laundry, 437 New York Ave. NW. lifein.mvsna.org U Street Neighborhood Association Meeting. Second Thursday, 7:00-8:30 PM. Source (second floor classroom), 1835 14th St. NW ANC 1A Meeting. Second Wednesday, 7:00 PM. Harriet Tubman Elementary School, 3101 13th St. NW. 202-5887278. anc1a.org ANC 1B Meeting. First Thursday, 7:00 PM. Reeves Center, 2000 14th St. NW (second floor). 202-870-4202. anc1b. org

wANC 1B11 Meeting. Second Monday, 7:00 PM. LeDroit Senior Building (basement community room), 2125 Fourth St. NW. 202-481-3462. www. anc1b.org ANC 1C Meeting. First Wednesday, 7:00 PM. Mary’s Center for Maternal and Child Health, 2355 Ontario Rd. NW. 202-332-2630. anc1c.org ANC 1D Meeting. Third Tuesday, 7:00 PM. 3166 Mount Pleasant St. NW. 202462-8692. anc1d.org ANC 2C Meeting. First Wednesday, 6:30-8:30 PM. Watha T. Daniel Library, 1630 Seventh St. NW (new location).

202-682-1633. anc2C.org Some regular monthly meetings do not meet in August. Please check in advance.

OUT OF TOWN FAIRS AND FESTIVALS Arlington County Fair. Aug. 10-14, weekdays, 5:00-10:00 PM; weekend, 11:00 AM-10:00 PM. Thomas Jefferson Community Center, 3501 So. 2nd St., Arlington, VA. arlingtoncountyfair.org Montgomery County Agricultural Fair. Friday, Aug. 12, 3:00-11:00 PM; Aug. 13-20, 10:00 AM-11:00 PM. Grandstand entertainment, carnival rides (40 brand new rides), livestock displays, commercial exhibits. $3-$8.

Montgomery County Fairgrounds. From Washington take 495 to 270 North, take exit 11 (Montgomery Village/ Fairgrounds). 301-963-3247. mcagfair.com Prince William County Fair. Aug. 1220. Today the Prince William County Fair is still the largest event in the area. Second and third generation families still bring their animals and crops for display and competition. The dream of the founders was to create an event for the families of Prince William County and that dream continues today. $5-$7. Prince William County Fairgrounds, 10624 Dumfries Rd., (off) Route 234, Manassas, VA. 703-368-0173. pwcfair.com

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Old Town Irish Festival. Saturday, Aug. 13 (rain or shine), noon-7:00 PM. Event features traditional Irish music, dancers, crafts, food and more Waterfront Park,1A Prince St., Alexandria, VA. 703-615-9453. ballyshaners.org Maryland Renaissance Festival. Saturdays, Sundays and Labor Day Monday, Aug. 27-Oct. 23 (rain or shine), 10:00 AM-7:00 PM. Jousting, feasting, music, theatre, dance, crafts. Revel Grover, Crownsville, MD. $9-$19. 800296-7304. rennfest.com ◆

capitalcommunitynews.com ◆ 15

{ MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. MEMORIAL SPECIAL }

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with Walter Fauntroy at a Home Rule Demonstration in 1967. Reprinted with permission of the DC Public Library, Star Collection, © Washington Post

A KING for Washington and DC

by Derek Musgrove

O

n August 28, 2011, the National Park Service will open the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial to the public.

The memorial consists of a massive statue of King, arms folded in steely determination, flanked by two huge stones. Standing in a semi-circular plaza that opens onto the Tidal Basin, King gazes toward the Jefferson Memorial, seemingly challenging the man who drafted the Constitution to resolve the racial contradictions at the core of American democracy. Situated amidst the cherry

trees that have come to define this section of the Mall, it is a beautiful place to contemplate the man and his ideas.

Though DC residents tend to shrug at the opening of monuments and other national goings-on of official Washington, the unveiling of the King Memorial, I suggest, is a good time for us to head down to the Mall and contemplate the late reverend’s message for this city and the nation. A consistent theme in the city’s history is the separation between “Washington” and “DC” -between the gleaming white marble monumental city, populated by outof-town lawmakers and tourists, and

the neighborhoods; between the disproportionately rich, white, and powerful, and the black, poor, and powerless. King was a regular visitor to both Washington and DC. While most Americans know of the many speeches he delivered to the nation from Washington, few are aware of his efforts to speak to the interests of DC residents and the impact of his assassination on the city.

A National Stage Like most great twentieth century U.S. protest leaders, King used Washington as a stage from which to address policymakers and the

American people on the great issues of his day. His most famous speeches in this city were milestones in his life and the civil rights movement. On May 17, 1957, King traveled to the capital for the “Prayer Pilgrimage for Freedom” at the Lincoln Memorial.

Before a gathering of 20,000, King delivered what many regard as his first national address, “Give Us the Ballot.” The march was designed to stimulate public support for the Civil Rights Act of 1957, and it had its intended effect. Alas, the law was a toothless tiger, gutted of nearly all of its important provisions by southern Senators, among them Lyndon Johnson of Texas. capitalcommunitynews.com ◆ 17

Six years later, at the height of the civil rights movement, King returned to the Lincoln Memorial for the August 28, 1963, “March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.” The crowd of 250,000 - one in ten of whom was a DC resident - stood rapt as King delivered what has since become the most recognizable address in modern U.S. oratory. This speech, unlike the last, was followed by meaningful legislative reform, and the following summer, King returned to the city to witness President Lyndon Johnson sign the Civil Rights Act of 1964. On the fortieth anniversary of the march, King’s “I Have a Dream” speech was memorialized with a brief inscription on the steps where he stood. Though celebrated today, the speech alarmed Federal Bureau of Investigation Director J. Edgar Hoover, a lifetime resident of Seward Square, just off of Pennsylvania Located on the Tidal Basin, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial creates a visual line of leadership between the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials in Washington, D.C. The Memorial is the first on the National Mall to honor a man of hope, a man of peace, and a man of color. It will be an engaging landscape Ave. SE, who, in the years and experience utilizing the natural elements of water, stone, and trees to convey four fundamental and recurring themes throughout Dr. King’s universal mesmonths following the march, sage – democracy, justice, hope, and love. A 450-foot inscription wall will feature more than a dozen Dr. King quotes engraved into granite to serve as used his agency to viciously ata lasting testament and reminder of his humanitarian vision. The Memorial will include the “Mountain of Despair” and the “Stone of Hope,” which will feature a 30-foot sculpture of Dr. King. Image courtesy of the Washington, DC Martin Luther King, Jr. National tack King and the movement Memorial Project Foundation, Inc. (c) 2010 - 2011. All Rights Reserved. for which he spoke.

And on March 31, 1968, King returned to the capital segregated majority-black city ruled King vowed, he would return to lead the SCLC. Noting that similar projcity to deliver what turned out to be by southern segregationists in Con- a march of 200,000. Though conser- ects threatened urban neighborhoods his last Sunday sermon, titled “Re- gress. In August 1965, King lent his vatives in Congress remained defi- throughout the nation, King told the maining Awake through a Great voice to the local struggle. Following ant, King’s demand for home rule protesters that “…you on these 675 Revolution,” at the National Cathe- more than a half dozen meetings was partially fulfilled by President acres called Shaw can point the way dral. At the start of his remarks, the with community groups at which he Johnson’s 1967 “reorganization” of for the nation out of her most serious overflow crowd of more than 3,000 expressed his support for home rule, DC government and his subsequent domestic dilemma – the decay of the listened uncomfortably as King made King sat down with the members appointment of Walter Washington city.” Remarkably, the protesters won, the case for his Poor People’s Cam- of the House and Senate Commit- as “Mayor/Commissioner.” saving significant portions of the old paign, scheduled for later that spring. tees on the District of Columbia, Home rule was not the only city from destruction.

The prospect of tens of thousands of who were then blocking President problem facing DC residents in the the nation’s poor dramatizing their Johnson’s Home Rule bill, to make mid-1960s. Many of the same Condestitution by living in a tent city on local residents’ feelings known. The gressmen who opposed home rule Assassination Perhaps the most powerful, the National Mall gave even strong following day, King led a crowd of favored “urban renewal” plans that long-term impact that King had on supporters of civil rights pause in the 5,000 to Lafayette Park before a ban- threatened to bisect dozens of DC the city came with his assassination era of “long, hot summers.” ner that read “We’re glad you’re with neighborhoods with six-lane highin 1968. Beginning in the earlyus Mr. Johnson. We do need home ways. These plans would relieve the 1960s, King warned that increasing rule now.” Revealing that his closed- city’s wretched traffic congestion, Home Rule / Urban Renewal segregation in America’s cities, deteThough King used Washington door meeting with members of the but at the cost of destroying count- riorating conditions in the ghettos, as a stage for his civil rights crusade, DC Committees did not go well, less communities and transforming unemployment, and police brutalhe did not ignore its domestic poli- King told the crowd that members thousands of city residents into refu- ity had created a combustible mix tics. By the 1950s, the issues of home of Congress had been “derelict in gees. On March 12, 1967, local op- that could explode at any time. All rule and civil rights had become in- their duties and sacred responsibility position to the highway plan brought that was needed was a spark and extricably entwined, and for good to make justice and freedom a real- King back to the city for a parade the nation’s cities could be engulfed reason. At the height of the civil ity for all citizens of the District of through Shaw with his dynamic lo- in flame. Though long touted as rights movement, DC was a de-facto Columbia.” If DC was not granted cal understudy Walter Fauntroy, Di- riot-proof because of its large black home rule “in the next few weeks,” rector of the Washington Bureau of 18 ◆ Midcity DC | August 2011

middle class, Washington proved to be little different from other cities across the country. Black unemployment was between two and three times that of whites, the rat infestation in black neighborhoods was so bad that Congress of Racial Equality President Julius Hobson organized a protest around it, and relations between the majority-white Metropolitan Police Department and African Americans, always tense, were deteriorating rapidly. In 1967 alone, MPD officers shot and killed more than a dozen African Americans and, Washington Post reporter Ben Gilbert tells us, “street disorders requiring police action became regular, almost weekly, occurrences.”

These conditions help explain what happened on the evening of April 4, 1968,when news broke that King had been shot in Memphis, Tennessee. A hastily arranged and ill conceived effort by former Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee Chairman Stokely Carmichael to get U St. stores to close in honor of King soon spiraled out of control, and within hours the area was engulfed in rioting. Looting and arson continued for the next four days, destroying the U St., 7th St., 14th St., and H St. corridors, claiming twelve lives, and sending many of the city’s small businesses fleeing to the suburbs. Some of these areas did not see substantial new investment until the 1990s.

The riots demonstrated the human limits of the love and nonviolence that King had preached.

In late April 1968, King’s Poor People’s Campaign rolled into town. A motley assortment of the nation’s poor, joined by civil rights activists, set up a makeshift “Resurrection City” in West Potomac Park, a stone’s throw from the Lincoln Memorial. Arriving so soon after the riot, the protesters set the city on edge. After six rain soaked weeks, relieved only by a “Solidarity Day” rally of 50,000 at the Lincoln Memorial, the protesters’ permit expired and they were forced to abandon the site. Many DC residents breathed a sigh of relief as the MPD cleared the area and the National Park Service bulldozed the shacks. The poor, it seemed, were once again out of sight and

out of mind. Residents’ relief was momentarily interrupted by reports of scattered rioting along 14th St. in Shaw, but liberal amounts of MPD-launched tear gas dispersed the crowds before the disturbances spread. Three months after King’s death, the city began to return to “normal.” Just as the riots showed the limits of King’s message of nonviolence in the midst of escalating racial animosity, the failure of the Poor People’s Campaign illustrated the limits of Americans’ willingness to embrace his vision of a more egalitarian society.

Memorial As the King Memorial opens on the National Mall “Washington” and “DC” residents should remember that the good reverend had a message for this city and its inhabitants, black and white, rich and poor, powerful and powerless.

A version of that message, delivered at the National Cathedral just four days before his assassination, was the inspiration for the memorial itself: “I say to you that our goal is freedom, and I believe we are going to get there because however much she strays away from it, the goal of America is freedom. Abused and scorned though we may be as a people, our destiny is tied up in the destiny of America… With this faith we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair the stone of hope.” This beautiful metaphor, now formed in granite on the banks of the Tidal Basin, should stimulate us anew to join the battle against what King referred to as the “triple evils” of racism, economic exploitation, and war. King’s history in this city should also motivate us to join the ongoing battle to end taxation without representation in the nation’s capitol.

So head down to the Mall, fellow residents of Washington and DC, and be inspired.

G. Derek Musgrove, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor of history at the University of the District of Columbia. He is the author of Rumor, Repression, and Racial Politics: How the Harassment of Black Elected Off icials Shaped Post-Civil Rights America (Athens, University of Georgia Press, 2012) ★ capitalcommunitynews.com ◆ 19

{ MLK SPECIAL SECTION }

MLK MEMORIAL DEDICATION EVENTS National Archives Document Display. On Display through Aug. 31, the program from “March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom” at the Lincoln Memorial, August 28, 1963. At the March on Washington, which ended at the Lincoln Memorial and was broadcast nationwide, King gave his famous speech, “I Have a Dream,” to hundreds of thousands of people.

Courtesy of John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. East Rotunda Gallery, National Archives, Constitution Ave. and Seventh St. NW. 202-357-5333. archives.gov MLK Memorial open to the public. Monday, Aug. 22-Thursday, Aug. 25. The intersection of West Basin Dr. SW and Independence Ave. SW. dedicatethedream.org The Message in the Music Civil Rights Concert. Thursday, Aug. 25, 8:00-10:00 PM. Various entertainment artists will join us in celebration by performing the legendary sounds of the Civil Rights Movement, music that inspired hope, strength and change. $100. Walter E. Washington Convention Center. dedicatethedream.org Honoring Past, Present, Future Pioneers Civil Rights Pioneers Luncheon. Thursday, Aug. 25, noon-2:00 PM. While Dr. King was arguably one of the most influential figures to emerge from the Civil Rights Movement, he was not alone. This luncheon honors those who dared to stand with Dr. King, those who dare to stand for the dream today, and those who dare future generations to continue to stand for social justice and equality. $85. Walter E. Washington Convention Center. dedicatethedream.org Partners in the Dream Public Expo. Thursday, Aug. 25, 3:00-8:00 PM; Friday, Aug. 26, 9:00 AM-7:00 PM; Saturday, Aug. 27, 9:00 AM5:00 PM; Sunday, Aug. 28, 2:30 PM-6:00 PM. Join supporters of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial for a public expo including information booths, performances and a tribute to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Free and open to the public. Walter E. Washington Convention Center. dedicatethedream.org We Shall Overcome: The Song That Moved a Nation. Friday, Aug. 26, 10:00 AM. We Shall Overcome film traces the origins of the civil rights movement through a single song, performed by the SNCC Freedom Singers; Peter, Paul, and Mary; and Joan Baez. Andrew Young, Julian Bond, and other veterans of the 1960s reminisce about the meaning of the song. Free. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4844. anacostia.si.edu Women Who Dare to Dream Luncheon. Friday, Aug. 26, noon-2:00 PM. Equally as important as their male counterparts, the women of the Civil Rights Movement have earned our respect and esteem.

At this luncheon, we honor the women whose legacy of strength and dignity continues to inspire hope. $85. Walter E. Washington Convention Center. dedicatethedream.org The March. Saturday, Aug. 27 and Sunday, Aug. 28, at noon. To celebrate the opening of the Martin Luther King, Jr., National Memorial, the National Archives presents two screenings of the

20 ◆ Midcity DC | August 2011

The Martin Luther King Jr. Statue. Image courtesy of the Washington, DC Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial Project Foundation, Inc. (c) 2010 - 2011. All Rights Reserved.

1964 film documenting the August 28, 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Directed by James Blue for the United States Information Agency.

(30 minutes). Free. National Archives, William G. McGowan Theater, Constitution Ave. and Seventh St. NW. Film screening attendees should enter through the Special Events entrance. 202-357-5333. archives.gov Monumental Martin. Saturday, Aug. 27, 1:00-3:00 PM. Celebrate the dedication of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial and the life of the noted civil rights leader. Join Culture Kingdom Kids for educational and fun activities that include interactive music, storytelling, dance, and take-home crafts. Families with children ages 4 to 12 are encouraged to attend. Free.

Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4844. anacostia. si.edu Interfaith Prayer Service. Saturday, Aug. 27, 10:00 AM-11:30 AM. The official interfaith prayer service for the opening of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. By invitation. There may be a stand-by line. Washington National Cathedral. dedicatethedream.org Dream Gala. Saturday, Aug. 27; Reception, 6:00-7:00 PM; Dinner, 7:00-10:00 PM. The Dream Gala is the premier VIP formal event of Dedication, where all Leadership Donors, dignitaries and honored supporters come together for a momentous evening celebrating the completion of the dream, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. $125-$250. Walter E. Washington Convention Center. dedicatethedream.org Pre-Dedication Musical Tribute. Sunday, Aug. 28, 10:00-11:00 AM. Preceding the official Dedication of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, this concert will pay tribute to the Life, the Dream and the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Free and open to the public. West Potomac Park. dedicatethedream.org Official Dedication Ceremony. Sunday, Aug. 28, 11:00 AM. The official Dedication ceremony of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. Free and open to the public. West Potomac Park. dedicatethedream.org Concert on the Mall. Sunday, August 28, 2:00-4:00 PM. Post-Dedication concert featuring noted artists. Free and open to the public. West Potomac Park. dedicatethedream.org King at Newseum. “The Press and the Civil Rights Movement” film runs continuously in the Newseum History Gallery. Excerpts from the “I Have a Dream” speech available for viewing in the Internet, TV and Radio Gallery. 1969 photo of King by Moreta Sleet, Jr., first African American to win the Pulitzer Prize, on view in the Pulitzer Gallery. See real-time news coverage of the “I have a Dream” speech in old newspapers. $21.95 (kids free through Labor Day). Newseum, 555 Pennsylvania Ave., NW. 888-639-7386. newseum.org Historic Theater: Join the Student Sit-Ins at the Greensboro Lunch Counter. Thursday-Monday in August, 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM. Meet a Civil Rights activist in 1960, just after the Greensboro student sit-in began. Take part in a training session based on an actual 1960s manual and prepare for your first sit-in. Would you have the courage to fight for justice during the Civil Rights movement? These 15-20 minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories. Appropriate for all ages. Free, walk-in. American History Museum. americanhistory.si.edu Race: Are We So Different? Exhibition on view through Jan. 2, 2012. Race is a short word with a long history in America. What is race and how are we affected by it every day? Race: Are We So Different? explores the concept of race from scientific, historical, and cultural perspectives. The exhibition offers a powerful look at race and racism, and challenges visitors to ask questions, think critically, and talk about the issue and their own experiences. Smithsonian Museum of Natural History (second floor), 10th St. and Constitution Ave. NW. 202-357-1729. mnh.si.edu ★

capitalcommunitynews.com ◆ 21

out and about I

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By Celeste McCall

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his was going to be an Initial Nibble, but we enjoyed a lot more than a nibble at El Centro DF, the Mexican charmer that opened a few months ago near Logan Circle. Created by Chef/coowner Richard Sandoval, El Centro is supposed to evoke vibrant Mexico City comfort food.

Yes, our overall experience really reminded us of a long ago trip to Mexico City. Upon arrival, we were led downstairs (there are three levels) to the dark, cozy taqueria–sort of like a German Bierstube.

Using the traditional molcajete (heavy stone mortar and pestle), our sharp young server whipped up our guacamole tableside. The chunky mixture of avocado, tomato, onion, serrano chilies and cilantro delivered just the right amount of firepower, but needed a smidgeon of salt.

Cozumel-style ceviche was laced with chunks of mild white fish, onions and tomatoes, while avocado added an appealing velvety texture.

Among entrees: Chicken Zarape was seasoned with bits of bacon and accompanied by two kinds of Mexican cheese and pico de gallo. The plate was accompanied by refried black beans and “creamy rice,” which resembled risotto.

Baja catch-of-the day was actually a quartet of nicelygarnished tacos filled with grilled tilapia, Mexican slaw, corn, refried black beans and chipotle aioli.

Rather than choosing from a rather daunting lineup of

200 tequilas and mezcals, we settled for a Mexican mojita and a margarita. Unfortunately, we left no room for dessert!

The bill came to about $90, but we had a lot to eat. After dinner, manager Ivan gave us a tour of the whole place, including the two

rooftop bars, where they will serve hot food in the fall; they now offer light cocktail nibbles. Valet parking is $12, slightly higher on weekends.

Located at 1819 14th St. NW, El Centro is open daily ‘til late. Call 202-328-3131.

El Centro Empanadas Photos Courtesy of: Richard Sandoval Restaurants

22 ◆ Midcity DC | August 2011

Big Bear Attack On the way home from an appointment, Peter stopped at the Big Bear Café, 1700 First St. NW (First and R), in Washington’s Bloomington/Eckington neighborhood. Now four years old, this cozy, Bohemian café is always humming, especially on Sundays, as neighbors queue up for lattes, bagels and cookies–plus free WiFi. However, chef Ted also makes mean sandwiches; Peter brought home a tasty turkey, apple, and brie on French white; he could have chosen grilled cheese; spicy kale; hummus, cuke and roasted pepper on whole wheat.

Having recently acquired a beer and wine license, Big Bear now serves seasonal dinner dishes like vegetable ragu; scallion pancakes with asparagus and shaved pecorino and smoky chipotle chili. Specials change. The wine list encompasses selections from France and Germany. Barista Collin pours sensibly priced American beers: Victory Prima Pils and Smuttynose Robust Porter.

Not surprisingly, given Big Bear’s popularity, service can sometimes lag. Big Bear is open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.; call 202-470-5543.

Watch These Spaces Near Mount Vernon Square, Corduroy, 1122 Ninth St. NW, is gaining a sibling in the townhouse next door. Set to open sometime next spring, the 3,469 square foot, steelconcrete-brick spinoff will be

Chef Richard Sandoval

named for another fabric, Velour. Chef-owner Tom Power plans a simple menu of soups, salad, steak, pizza and maybe lobster rolls and pupusas, and promises to keep prices low.

And...

Lost Society, a “boutique steakhouse” complete with a rooftop deck, has opened at 14th and U streets NW. An offshoot of Local 16, the newcomer features a menu designed by former Smith & Wollensky chef Joseph Evans...Teaism, which has several Washington outlets, will open its fourth location in the Moderno Building at 12th and U streets NW. No opening date has been set, but the menu will offer teas, mango lassi, salty oat cookies, salads and healthy entrees.

Stay tuned.

Crabby Throughout the summer, Logan Circle’s Bar Pilar, 1833 14th St. NW, is again plying diners with mounds of steamed blue crabs.

Serving two, Executive Chef Justin Bittner’s bountiful, fun (but messy) crab dinner is $60, which includes two seasonal side dishes, which change weekly depending on availability of seasonal ingredients: corn on the cob, shrimp with mussels, cornbread, housemade slaw and potato salad. Plus dessert.

Born and raised in Baltimore, chef Bittner puts his own twist on the traditional Maryland preparation, steaming batches of crabs

in cider vinegar, water and Old Bay seasoning. Reservations are not accepted but customers are encouraged to call ahead for large groups: 202-265-1751. Bar Pilar, a popular neighborhood gathering spot known for its “small plates” menu, has added a second level dining area. The expansion has doubled its former 49 seating capacity to 100. For more information visit www.barpilar.com.

New In Shaw, Ali Bagheri and Daniel O’Brien have unveiled Seasonal Pantry at 1314 1/2 Ninth St. NW. Described as “a tribute to roadside farm stands and old-fashioned markets,” the neighborhood newcomer hawks house made and imported victuals. The small space–only 240 square feet--also doubles as a restaurant showcasing local produce. Look for more information in a future Insatiable column. Meanwhile, call 202-617-733-9867. www.seasonalpantry.com.

RAMMY winner Congratulations to chef Kyle Bailey of Birch and Barley, 1337 14th St. NW, who was declared Rising Culinary Star by the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington ... and Estadio, 1520 14th St. NW, is Best New Restaurant. The awards were announced June 26 at the 2011 RAMMY Awards at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Northwest. ◆ capitalcommunitynews.com ◆ 23

out and about

+ Shopping

RETAIL THERAPY RETAI RETAI RETAI LRETAIL LTHER RETAIL L THER RETAIL THER RETAIL AP TH RETAIL AP TH YAP ERA YERA TYHERA TPY HERA TPY HERA PYPY PY

by Scott Fazzini

Palace 5ive

I’ve admitted it before, and will undoubtedly repeat myself in the future: I’m a dork. I’m not talking about those pseudo-fashionable Urban Outfitters dorks, but the genuine article. Having said that so that you’ll understand why I might find it difficult to shop in stores that are silently understood to be reserved for the “cool kids,” I do manage, however, to always find things that suit my character even in the “hippest” of shops.

Palace 5ive is one of those said hep shops. Their main demographic, I assume, is the young skateboarder. (*Note: I’m neither young nor a skateboarder.) They stock all of the stereotypical skate-related apparel and accessories, but also a great selection of items that are very much atypical of the skater genre... or at least my uneducated idea of the skater genre.

This shop is loaded with shoes. They carry an impressive collection of Tom’s (starting at $44.), this generations Chuck Taylor All Star’s. The venerable skate shoe company Vans has introduced some prep to their lineup. The Zapato Lo-Pro ($50.) is in appearance a boat shoe, but constructed as a supportive skate shoe.

If shoes aren’t your thing for some strange reason, you can chose between a great array of Hershel bags and accessories. The canvas and leather Little America backpack ($140.) made me a little weak in the knees. You’ll also find, displayed neatly inside of glass vitrines, rows of sunglasses, like the classic Persol 450’s ($270.), and watches. Oh, and they have skateboards, too.

Palace 5ive: 2216 14th Street NW 202/299-9008

Room & Board

With a mammoth overhaul, including the addition of a penthouse complete with wraparound rooftop deck providing sweeping views of the bustling intersection of 14th and U Street, Room & Board DC was born. The company was founded in 1980, and continues to sell well designed modern / transitional furniture which is all made in America by a small family owned business.

Room & Board’s design point of view is apparent the moment that you walk through the large glass front doors. The aesthetic is clean and simple, and the furniture is void of any fussy details.

The emphasis is more on form and materials. They provide furnishings and accessories for everything inside and outside of the home.

The Brooks sofa (starting at $899.) is a perfect scale for many of the smaller spaces in the area.

Their upholstery is offered in a stock fabric, or you can choose from a wide array of textiles ranging from solid and neutral to vibrant and boldly patterned.

They also offer a tight collection of mid-century design classics; the Eames leather lounger (starting at $3, 579.), Nelson benches (starting at $729.), and the stunningly sculptural Wegner Shell Chair in brindled leather ($3,390.), to name just a few.

Room & Board is a terrific source for all of your home furnishing wants and needs.

Room and Board: 1840 14th treet NW 202/729-8300 24 ◆ Midcity DC | August 2011

Martha’s Outfitters

There is a shortage of actual thrift stores in DC, especially in the ever-burgeoning U Street area. Martha’s Outfitters is an offshoot of Martha’s Table, an organization designed to help families and individuals by providing educational programs, food and clothing. They accept gently worn donations, and stock an variety of goods; dvd’s, books, housewares, clothing and more.

Because of the nature of the acquisition of product at Martha’s Outfitters the assortment is ever-changing, and totally unique. Dvd’s ($4.) mingle on shelves with dog-eared paperback books ($3.). The housewares department is filled with handmade pottery, monogramed stemware, and the odd electronic gadget.

They’ve also got, as is to be expected in a thrift store, a plethora of clothes, for men, but mainly women. Men’s button-downs ($6.) are neatly pressed and hung. There are racks and racks of jeans ($6.), jackets, and

skirts all very fairly priced.

Martha’s Outfitters serves a good cause, and is a great alternative to the much higher priced, though more excitingly stocked, vintage shops in the area.

Martha;s Outfitters: 2114 14th Street NW 202/328-6608

And Beige

And Beige is hands-down one of my favorite furniture shops in the District. The product assortment is refreshingly modern with timeless characteristics. In terms of visual display, the store is immaculately well-appointed. The owner, Daren Miller, is a former corporate merchandiser and buyer, and a true gentleman possessing a rare combination of business savvy and creative genius.

I met up with Daren and asked him to share with me four of his favorite fall finds.

1. 30” tall ivory and chocolate taper candles ($23. for a pair).

On a personal note, I buy these all the time, usually in black. They are dramatic, beautiful, and last a lifetime.

2. Large antler taper candle holders (89.).

3. Ruched velvet pillows in a deep “cool” 1970’s orange ($275. each).

4. Boxes, boxes, boxes. Nesting / stacking gray felt boxes with leather snap closures ($330. for a set of three). These are not only decorative, but practical too.

There is a lot to discover at And Beige. Daren has thoughtfully curated a varied collection of product and price points to please a wide range of clients. Stop by and see for yourself.

And Beige; 1781 Florida Avenue NW 202/234-1557 ◆

capitalcommunitynews.com ◆ 25

out and about

+ Dining

Island and Soul Food at Andrene’s photos and article by Celeste McCall

A

clown named Jama-Lama Ding Dong, colorful balloons, pulsating DJ music, Caribbean vittles, three kinds of cake and Senior Wellness guests marked the fifth anniversary of Andrene‘s, Petworth ‘s popular Caribbean and soul food carryout. The day-long bash took place July 9. “The community has supported me throughout the years,” said proprietor Andrene Finn. “I could not have done it without them.”

While her eatery does not offer sit-down service or alcohol, the place is always packed with neighbors and friends, and is especially busy on Saturdays. What ‘s more, Andrene plans to expand and rearrange the interior to better utilize existing space in order to accommodate a sit-down area with tables and chairs. “All it takes is imagination,” Andrene explained, as she led me through her surprisingly spacious kitchen (which accommodates four employees), walk- in fridge, storage area and even a small office.

Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Andrene Finn, a petite, energetic woman, grew up in Washington DC and attended local elementary and high schools. She also earned a masters degree from Howard University; her “day job” is social work at Family Matters of Greater Washington. She has also served in the Army Reserves.

Saturday ‘s birthday party catered largely to seniors age 50 and up, who dropped by after attending a light lunch and other activities at the Hattie Holmes Senior Wellness Center, situated down the street at the former Kennedy theater. There, seniors attend classes and lectures, 26 ◆ Midcity DC | August 2011

learn quilting and crocheting, work out in a state-of-the-art fitness room, practice tai chi, attend cooking demos in a sparkling, spacious kitchen, and learn computer skills.

“We meet at the Senior Well-

ness Center every Saturday,” said 90-year-old Carlos Beaudreau, who hails from New Orleans. “We play games; it ‘s very enjoyable; it ‘s better than staying in my apartment.” An added bonus: Beaudreau can visit

his sister, who lives down the street from Andrene’s.

Created by chef Michael Malcolm, who comes from Montego Bay, Jamaica, Andrene’s zesty, downhome fare is divided between Caribbean and “soul food.” From the island listing we sampled delicious curried goat, stewed oxtails, jerk chicken, fiery beef patties, peas (actually beans) and rice. From the soul side: barbecued pork ribs, mac-and-cheese, collard greens and stewed cabbage. The last two dishes are meatless, and Andrene’s offers other vegetarian dishes as well.

Perhaps Andrene’s most popular dish is ackee and salt fish, served every Friday. (Ackee, Jamaica ‘s national fruit which resembles scrambled eggs, is not readily available in these parts.) Escoviched snapper and curried shrimp also get high marks. Andrene’s also serves hearty breakfasts.

To drink: coffee, tea, fruit juices and assorted sodas, including Ting, the ultra sweet Jamaican beverage.

Prices are downright low; my husband Peter and I shared a bountiful lunch with a diet Pepsi for just $12.

“Business is good, the neighborhood is growing,” Andrene said.

“We’re multi-cultural, a melting pot. We have Caribbean, Hispanic, Ethiopian, Hispanic.” (A short drive around the area confirms this.)

Located at 308 Kennedy St. NW, Andrene’s Caribbean/Soul Food Carryout is open from 8 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.; closed Sunday. Andrene’s also does catering, and credit cards are accepted for tabs $10 or higher. Call 202-291-7007. ◆

+ Music

JAZZ AVENUES

by Steve Monroe

A proud local JJA honoree...

It came as a complete surprise to him when Omrao Brown, impressario of top jazz venue Bohemian Caverns, was named a 2011 Jazz Journalist Association ( JJA) Jazz Hero.

According to the association, the JJA Jazz Heroes “are activists, advocates, altruists, aiders and abettors of jazz who have had significant impact in their local communities.” This year’s awards were presented June 11 in conjunction with the presentation of the awards honoring significant achievements “in jazz music and journalism.”

Brown commented on the honor during a set featuring saxophonist Lyle Link – who was in top form – last month at the club.

“I had no idea that was coming,” he said. “They [association organizers] had reached out to me about hosting a party here, because they were going to stream the awards show to a few locations around the country … so I said sure the party could be here … but that was all I knew. So I was shocked and honored that somebody thought we deserved the honor.” Brown, co-owner and manager of Bohemian Caverns on U Street NW, has earned a local and national reputation over the years for running a top jazz venue.

Brown grew up in Connecticut and Massachusetts, immersed in jazz from birth as the son of Dr. Leonard Brown, an accomplished saxophonist and musical scholar at Northeastern University, according to JJA information. Surrounded by the music and its practitioners, Brown dabbled in violin and

saxophone, but Female Singer of after graduating the Year. Heath’s from Northeastrecently published ern he embarked book, written with on a career as a Joseph McLaren, I computer engiWalked With Gineer, his work for ants: The Autobinearly a decade. ography of Jimmy In 2006, Heath, was named however, Brown Best Book about decided to reinJazz at this year’s vest in his love of awards. music —“I figSonny Rollins ured it’s best to was named MusiSaxophonist Paul Carr is featured with his do it when you’re group Aug. 12-13 at Twins Jazz cian of the Year young,” he said and Top Tenor — and joined a Saxophonist – no surprise -- and partnership to purchase Bohemian Jason Moran was named Composer Caverns.

All of us are glad he did, con- of the Year. Sax man Joe Lovano sidering the club has helped the took awards for top recording, “Bird revitalization of U Street while Songs,” and top small ensemble, Joe providing top music and more— Lovano Us Five. For complete inwith his operation of a restaurant formation on the awards, go to jjaand a hip hop nightclub also in the jazzawards.org. building that houses Bohemian Caverns, and the recent establish- Happy 5th to ment of the Bohemian Caverns Jazzradiodc Jazz Orchestra as the house big Jazzradiodc.com and Carl Farley band on Monday nights. are proud to celebrate five years of Among the other Jazz Hero years of bringing its jazz selections, honorees was Peggy Cafritz, a photos, videos and information, as significant jazz—and education— hero in Washington since at least well as, via the web site, providing an 1971, when she co-founded the ongoing celebration of the DC Jazz Duke Ellington School of the Arts Festival in June.

“As promised, we have added with Mike Malone. music collected from many of the artists performing during the festi...and the envelopes val to our streaming playlist,” says for the top JJA the web site. “A partial list of our DC Jazz Festival musical additions players...

The 2011 JJA Lifetime includes Bobby McFerrin, Heath Achievement in Jazz award went Brothers, Claudia Acuna, Allan to sax virtuoso Jimmy Heath, a Harris, Elin, Nasar Abadey, Afro frequent performer in the area, as Blue, James King, Anthony Nelson is Dee Dee Bridgewater, named Jr., Akua Allrich and more.” ◆

August Highlights: Freddy Cole, Aug. 6-7, Blues Alley ... Emy Tseng, Aug. 11 Twins Jazz ... Carter Family Reunion, Aug. 12, Westminster Church ... Paul Carr, Aug. 12-13, Twins Jazz ... Jerry Gonzalez & The Fort Apache Band, Aug. 12-14, Blues Alley … Nasar Abadey, Carl Grubbs, Chad Carter, Aug. 19, Westminster Church ...

Akua: Tribute to Nina Simone & Miriam Makeba, Aug. 19, 20, Bohemian Caverns ... Aisha Kahlil, Aug. 25, Blues Alley ... Brad Linde, Aug. 26-27, Twins Jazz ...

August Birthdays: 2nd: Big Nick Nicholas; 3rd: Eddie Jefferson; 4th: Louis Armstrong, Sonny Simmons; 5th: Lenny Breau; 7th: Rahsaan Roland Kirk; 8th: Lucky Millinder, Benny Carter; 9th: Jack DeJohnnette; 10th: Claude Thornhill; 11th; Russell Procope; 12th: Earl Coleman, Pat Metheny; 13th: Mulgrew Mille; 14th: Stuff Smith; 16th: Oscar Peterson, Mal Waldron, Bill Evans; 17th: Ike Quebec, Duke Pearson; 18th: Oscar Brashear; 19th: Jimmy Rowles; 21sr: Count Basie, Art Farmer; 23rd: Bobby Watson, 24th: Claude Hopkins; 25th: Wayne Shorter, Pat Martino; 26th: Branford Marsalis; 27th: Lester Young; 28th: Kenny Drew; 29th: Charlie Parker, Dinah Washington; 30th: Kenny Dorham.

capitalcommunitynews.com ◆ 27

the nose The DC Council, a Shakespeare Tragedy

by Anonymous

I

n the wee hours of the morning, a light burns in the Wilson Building in the Ward 6 council office. A half-empty glass of single malt resting on the desk in front of him, a lonely Tommy “The Cyclist” Wells ponders the impending loss of his beloved Transportation Committee. Fingering his iPhone and facing his doom, Wells launches into a soliloquy: To tweet or not to tweet--that is the question: Whether ‘tis nobler in the mind to suffer The slings and arrows of outrageous assignments Or to take arms against a unanimous host of colleagues And, by informing the public, shame them. To tweet, to blog— No more—and by a blog to say we pontificate about The heartache, and the thousand natural shocks That politics is heir to. ‘Tis a consummation Devoutly to be wished. To blog, to tweet— To blog—perchance to rant: ay, there’s the rub.

For after that communication, what travails may come Allowing others the looting of our own legislative spoils Must give us pause. There’s the respect That makes calamity of long incumbency.

For who would bear the whips and scorns of election, Th’ chairman’s wrong, proud colleagues’ contempt, The pangs of despised conscience, the betrayal of allies, The insolence of reporters, and the spurns That patient courting of th’ donor takes, When he himself might his exit make In the pursuit of an ethics investigation? Who would fardels bear, To grunt and sweat under a miserable committee assignment, But that the dread of loss of office, The undiscovered country, from whose bourn No politicians other than Orange and Barry have returned, puzzles the will, And makes us rather bear those offices we have Than fly to others that we know not of?

Thus, sweet taste of power does make cowards of us all.

And, thus, the native hue of resolution Is sicklied o’er with the pale cast of thought.

And enterprise of great pitch and moment With this regard their currents turn awry And lose the name of action. -- Soft you now, proud Kwame -- Mayor in thy orisons, All assignments remembered, Beware the Ides of April 2014.

The only thing more irritating to his fellows than a politician with scruples is an honest pol with too much time on his hands. Soon, The Nose predicts, some on the council will be heard muttering behind The Cyclist’s back, “Will no one rid me of this turbulent priest?” ◆ 28 ◆ Midcity DC | August 2011

District Beat: How Tommy Wells Came Out a Winner

by Martin Austermuhle

W

hen in mid-July D.C. Council Chair Kwame Brown took the unprecedented step of re-shuffling committee assignments, Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Wells was seen as not only the target of his efforts, but also the biggest loser. Gone was his perch atop the Committee on Transportation and Public Works, from which Wells had jumped with gusto into implementing the “livable and walkable” principles that are so close to the hearts of the city’s urbanist sect. So too went his spot on Metro’s Board of Directors, where Wells had shown a level of commitment unbeknownst to many of his predecessors and colleagues.

But despite the immediate loss of the committee he so loved, Wells spun the re-shuffling masterfully turning it into a case of political payback for the hearings and report he produced on cityleased SUVs and, yes, Brown’s own fully-loaded luxury SUV. And though his was the only dissenting vote when the re-shuffling hit the council floor, a number of his colleagues quietly apologized to Wells for not standing up for him.

All told, Wells stands to come out a winner, probably not what Brown initially intended.

Here’s how.

Here Comes 2014: If Tommy Wells didn’t have citywide name recognition before the committee re-shuffling, he surely does now. Not only did it look like Brown was exacting revenge on Wells, but Wells beat Brown to the storyline – Wells leaked the news to a friendly blog the night it happened, while Brown waited 12 hours after the media pounced on the story to release a statement on it. (On Twitter, the entire charade was referred to as the “Midnight Massacre” and “Kwame’s Revenge.”) Looking down the road, the campaign ad for a citywide run in 2014 just seems to write itself: “Tommy Stood Up to Kwame Brown, and He’ll Stand Up For You.” If Someone Gives You Lemons: There’s little

+ District Beat

doubt that moving from Transportation and Public Works to Libraries, Parks and Recreation was a demotion for Wells. In sheer fiscal terms, he went from overseeing a bureaucracy with a $566 million budget to one with only $72 million. But his new committee assignment will only be as good or bad as he wants to make it.

Wells now chairs a committee that oversees something that touches upon the lives of virtually every resident in the District – libraries, parks, recreation centers, dog parks, and pools. No, it won’t have the policy cache of working on transportation, but in immediate terms, there’s more of a practical impact on Photo: Andrew Lightman residents. Shuttered libraries and abandoned parks make that he regretted the vote. Morefor irate voters, after all. Wells over, some of the councilmembers could launch a listening tour that that voted for the plan had sometakes him to every park, pool, li- thing to gain – Ward 4’s Muriel brary, and recreation center in the Bowser moved up to the CommitDistrict – he did something similar tee on Government Operations, with Metro buses – only elevating while At-Large Vincent Orange his citywide profile. finally got himself the CommitNew Friends: Many watchers tee on Small Business. It’s unlikely of local politics made noise of the that they were voting for Brown, fact that when it came time to vote more than simply for themselves. on the council re-shuffling, Wells It’s not lost on anyone that Brown was the only person left voting remains under federal investigation against the plan. The assumption for questionable spending in his was that Wells hadn’t done enough 2008 campaign, while Wells is one cultivating of his own colleagues of a minority of councilmembers to cobble together an alliance that that faces no ethical or legal inquiwould support him, or that some of ries. Additionally, if Wells was first, his own colleagues wanted to tamp someone else could be next, and down on any future citywide ambi- no one really knows what might tions the Ward 6 legislator might provoke Brown’s ire. Running a have. Maybe. But Brown’s power council based on fear isn’t likely to play likely pushed some of Wells’ win Brown any more friends in the colleagues closer towards him, long-run, but it can certainly allow albeit quietly. In fact, in the days Wells to pick up a few. afterwards, a number of councilmembers – Wells declined to say Ethics Overhaul in who exactly – apologized to him, the Offing? and Councilmember Phil MendelWith at least six councilmemson (D-At Large) openly admitted bers, the council chair and Mayor

Vince Gray clouded by ethical and legal inquiries, there’s not a whole lot of love amongst District residents for their elected leaders these days. In fact, many residents and political commentators have noted that a serious, if not complete overhaul of the city’s rules on ethics, campaign finance and elections may be needed in the near future.

In recent months, a number of proposals have been floated.

Councilmember Mary Cheh (D-Ward 3) and Brown proposed legislation that would create a new institution to better police elected officials, but D.C. Attorney General Irv Nathan threw cold water on the idea by arguing that more bureaucracy wasn’t the answer.

(He’d rather see the Board of Elections and Ethics and the Office of Campaign Finance made stronger.) Councilmember Vincent Orange (D-Ward 5) presented a competing proposal that would create an ethics committee on the council, much like the one Congress has. Wells has put forward legislation that would prohibit individuals and companies from setting up countless LLCs for the purposes of bundling contributions and create reporting requirements for transition and inaugural committees.

At the same time, good government advocates in the District have pushed for more far-reaching changes, including making it harder for candidates to make it on the ballot, giving them $25,000 in campaign seed money when they do and extended their terms to five years to allow them to settle in and govern before hitting the campaign trail again. Others want to see councilmembers limited to a single job – currently, legislators can have a second job, and four of them do – and be forced to

publicly release their tax returns.

In a op-ed in The Washington Post, one local fundraiser even proposed that campaign contribution limits be scaled back from $1,000 to $25.

There’s a lot out there, but whether it goes anywhere is the next question. No one councilmember has stepped up and made ethics their signature issue, and despite all the outrage, there isn’t a coalition of good government groups in the city pushing for any one proposal. Brown’s council reshuffling did put Bowser in charge of the committee that would handle any such legislation, though, which is a good thing – she was responsible for authoring the city’s newly strengthened Open Meetings Law and has shown an independent streak in the past.

On the other hand, some have argued that maybe what the District needs isn’t more rules and regulations, but more people to enforce the ones currently on the books. Togo West, who chairs the Board of Elections and Ethics, recently pointed out that the Office of Campaign Finance only has four auditors on staff, severely limiting the breadth and depth of the work it could do. “You want to improve ethics policing in the District of Columbia, get me some more auditors,” he said.

Of course, there is one much more direct solution to ethical and legal transgressions – elections.

Next year, four councilmembers implicated in some sort of ethical scandal face the voters. Moreover, those who don’t might be forced to – there are whispers of possible recall attempts against Gray, Brown and Ward 5’s Harry Thomas, Jr. Martin Austermuhle is a Senior Editor at DCist.com and a freelance writer in Washington, D.C. He lives in Mt. Pleasant. ◆ capitalcommunitynews.com ◆ 29

your neighborhood

+ The Numbers

Retail Politics Will DC Residents “live better” with jobs from Wal-Mart?

by Kwame Boadi and Elissa Silverman Is any kind of job creation for DC good job creation?

It’s an important question to consider as DC leaders and residents wrestle with the prospect of WalMart crossing over the District line into our city. The world’s No. 1 retailer—which has an aggressive urban growth strategy—promises to deliver up to 1,200 permanent positions.

Many of the District’s elected officials have welcomed the megacorporation with outstretched arms, saying they are especially excited about employment opportunities for residents. But it’s worth considering just what kind of opportunities WalMart will bring to DC. Many of Wal-Mart’s positions pay wages that would keep a single mom with two kids below the federal poverty level.

And, unlike working at a unionized grocery, like Giant or Safeway, the path to higher pay and better positions is less clear. Also, if Wal-Mart’s famously low prices bring about job losses in better-paying grocery stores or neighboring small businesses as research supports, the net gain in jobs may not be as great as their promotional materials suggest.

Currently one out of ten DC residents is searching for work.

There is a great need for low-skill jobs that can offer entry into the workforce. The employment rate for DC adults with a high school degree, for example, is now at the lowest point in 30 years. Given that, it is important for DC’s leaders to try to increase employment opportunities for residents.

At the same time, however, the quality of these jobs also is important. Whether the jobs will be fulltime, whether they come with health benefits, and whether they provide 30 ◆ Midcity DC | August 2011

wages that can support an individual or family are all factors to consider.

One way the District can make WalMart’s entry into our city beneficial to both parties is for the District to sign a “Community Benefits Agreement” with the world’s most profitable corporation. The agreement, which is a legally enforceable contract, can hold Wal-Mart to certain wage and hiring standards.

much to support DC’s welfare-towork efforts.

On the other hand, a job that pays $12 an hour at 32 hours a week would be enough to lift nearly two-thirds of low-income working families above 150 percent of the federal poverty line. It seems reasonable that the world’s No. 1 retailer could agree to pay DC’s “living wage” of $12 an hour.

Low Prices, Low Wages

Low Prices, High Impact on District Wages and Small Businesses

Wal-Mart’s low prices are helpful to save money, but low wages keep its hard-working employees in poverty. Across the country, an entry level Wal-Mart employee typically earns between the federal minimum wage of $7.25 and $9 per hour. That beginning wage would be slightly higher in DC, because the District’s minimum wage is $8.25 per hour.

Just having a job and a steady paycheck does not automatically lift a family out of poverty. In fact, the majority of DC’s low-income residents live in working families.

The problem is they simply earn too little or cannot get full-time work, or both. The typical wage for DC’s working poor is about $9 an hour – just around what Wal-Mart’s entry –level jobs will pay.

It doesn’t take a math genius to see that $9 an hour is not enough to support a family in DC. At $9 an hour and 32 hours a week, a prospective Wal-Mart employee would make roughly $1,150 a month before taxes. This is 75 percent the federal poverty level for a family of three. Once taxes are taken out and you factor in the cost of housing, transportation, and possibly child care, one might wonder whether it is really worth it to work at all. This means Wal-Mart is unlikely to do

Wal-Mart has told District leaders they expect to employ up to 1,200 workers, but is that really 1,200 new jobs? If Wal-Mart proves successful in offering lower prices than their competitors, they could very well force them out of business. Their employees might end up losing their jobs.

Were Wal-Mart to locate in the District would also compete with major chains like Target, Safeway, and Giant.

Safeway and Giant employ union labor and as such, pay and benefits at these stores for employees that have established tenure are considerably more generous that what Wal-Marts around the DC region currently. WalMart’s presence could put downward pressure on the wages offered by its competitors. And if any union grocery stores go out of business as a result of Wal-Mart, the city will simply have replaced decent-paying jobs with low-wage, low-benefit jobs.

Low Wages Can Be Raised Through a Community Benefits Agreement Wal-Mart and its supporters say that DC will benefit from the

retailer’s presence through more jobs and low prices, but right now District residents just have to take Wal-Mart’s word.

Because Wal-Mart is not asking for special tax or zoning treatment, DC’s leaders cannot make many demands. But that doesn’t mean that the DC community – the residents who will be filling Wal-Mart’s aisles — cannot ask the retailer to be a better partner.

Instead, residents could have WalMart guarantee a number of benefits by entering into a “Community Benefits Agreement” with the corporation. Community Benefits Agreements are legally enforceable contracts, agreed to and signed by community groups and a business, that detail a set of community benefits committed to by the developer as part of the project.

A coalition of clergy, labor, civic activists and small businesses, known as the Living Wages, Healthy Communities Coalition, has been pushing for Wal-Mart to sign such an agreement. Included in the proposed document is an agreement that Wal-Mart pay the District living wage, which is $12.50 per hour.

Big economic development projects like the opening of WalMart should have benefits for both the company and for the District.

Making living wage and first source hiring requirements as part of a community benefits agreement will ensure that happens.

Boadi and Silverman are policy analysts at the DC Fiscal Policy Institute (www.dcfpi.org), which conducts research on tax and budget issues that affect low- and moderate-income DC residents. ◆

Logan Circles

by Mark Johnson

Twelfth Annual Days of the Dog in Mid City

so popular these days with those who can’t get enough of Camelot Coolness!

It was one of the hottest and most humid Mid City Dog Days weekends in recent memory. But bargain seekers from all over the DMV chose not to let a little heat get between them and cold cash tucked away in their wallets.

For the twelfth year straight, the shops, restaurants, boutiques and all manner of businesses pulled off what appears to be another successful event, pulling people from far and beyond the U/14 area. The Mid City Business Association for the first time, held an auction earlier this Scenes from this year’s Mid City Dog Days Sale year to help defray the cost of advertising. Nearly $4,000 was Mitchell-Gold to the south. They raised at the fun event. Several will join the other stores in furnimentions of Dog Days appeared in ture row. the Washington Post.

While past years have seen a Three New Restaumore carnival-like Dog Days event, this year was certainly more sub- rants Come to U/14 Everyone pretty much knows dued, but well-attended.

THE place to get your grub and Some of this year’s standouts lounge on in the DMV is U/14. include, one of my favorites every Pretty soon there will be three more year, the props sale at Studio Thespots to do just that. Soon to open atre at 14th and P Streets, an actual up at the northeast corner of 14th sidewalk sale of small home items and T is Matchbox.

Th e pizza bistro at Pulp and Home Rule and a 1965 chain will open its fourth location BMW motorbike parked outside in the building currently known Hunted House, Vintage and Mid as the Arena Stage costume wareCentury Modern and was for sale house.

Joining Matchbox a little for $12,000. further down the street is brother bistro Ted’s Bulletin, slated to open Essential Moves in ground level retail space at DisUrban Essentials is moving to trict Condos, currently under conground level retail space at District struction on the west side of 14th Condos, at 14th and S Streets. This between S and Swann Streets. move will sandwich the homeTed’s Bulletin, named for the grown furniture store right between Matchbox owner’s dad is currently Room and Board to the north and a one-off on the Hill. This place of-

Another One Bites the Dust

fers the old American comfort food choices in a setting that takes you back to the Depression era.

DC has more than a few restaurant dynasty’s like the Thievery Corporation group who own (among others) Eighteen Street Lounge, Marvin, the Gibson, and now Blackbird, located next door to Gibson on 14th near U, which I almost forgot to mention had finally opened. Now, if you haven’t already, meet Jack Black! The Black Restaurant Group, owns BlackSalt in the Palisades, Black Market Bistro in Garrett Park, Md and a few other spots bearing the “Black” name.

Coming soon to the westside of 14th between Corcoran and Que Streets is Pearl Oyster Dive Bar and Blackjack Lounge. According to Jack, the space will be a two-level spot and Blackjack will probably appeal more to the hipster crowd that throngs to 14th Street after hours. It promises to be a 60s throwback kind of spot

We mentioned in Logan Circles last month that the Taco Bell/KFC combo joint on 14th near U Street had closed.

Now the spot is boarded up with teaser posters that say watch this space for something hot to happen. Also, down the street toward T Street, and next to the parking lot, the little Latino restaurant that stood there for some years with the green Christmas tree permanently at home on the roof, has gone “adios.” No word so far on what will replace this little place, which never seemed to be very busy.

Put your ear to the ground and you will hear that Redeem, the popular clothing store on 14th near S, will soon lose its lease as well.

Seems to be because the building’s owner wants to do something else with the space not because the store is doing poorly which certainly seems not to be the case. U/14 is changing drastically and very quickly. It is very important to support the local businesses in U/14 at this time especially.

Let landlords know that you want a mix of businesses in the `hood. U/14 is one of the most fun and exciting parts of town to be out in. The “mix” is what helps to make it so and keeps people coming to our “neck” from all over the area. I hope we all do what we can to show our support so we can try to keep what we have now. ◆ capitalcommunitynews.com ◆ 31

your neighborhood

14th and U

by Catherine Finn

Two Restaurants open at the corner of 14th and U The building at the northeast corner of 14th and U Streets had been vacant for far too long.

But now, two new restaurants are enlivening that space, with two more set to open very soon. It’s wonderful to see this corner full of life.

Lost Society, at 2001 14th Street, is modeled after a steakhouse, but with one with boutique styling. The building – in which Lost Society takes up the top 2 floors – has been beautifully restored, with exposed brickwork, a large number of chandeliers, a beautiful bar, and a gorgeous roof deck that is no doubt already packed every night.

Beyond the beautiful design, the food spans a range from the obvious steak to stuffed lobster, zucchini ribbons and dressed-up mac and cheese. Appetizers run from $6 to $12, with main dishes starting at $14 and going up to $29. Heading up the kitchen is Joseph Evans, formerly at Smith and Wollensky. And from the owners of area restaurant Local 16, plans are afoot to open a club in the lower level of the building. However, no word yet on when that will happen.

But closer to opening in the same building, on the ground floor, are two chains: Subway and Dunkin’ Donuts. It looks like Subway will be opening sooner than Dunkin’ Donuts.

Meanwhile, next door, at 2005 14th Street, Blackbyrd Warehouse has recently opened its doors. It was riginally conceived as a coffee shop and bakery—and we can 32 ◆ Midcity DC | August 2011

only guess that the opening of Peregrine Espresso, as well as the existence of Mid City Caffe on 14th Street made the owners change plans. Now a raw bar and performance space, Blackbyrd Warehouse announced its opening very quietly—not even a sign marked the occasion.

The interior is minimalist, featuring an Obama poster left over from the 2008 election, days when the restaurant was not much more than an empty lot. Brought to you by the Hilton Brothers, who nearly own the entire 14th and U corner with the Gibson, Marvin, and Patty Boom Boom, Blackbyrd Warehouse features local R&B, blues and jazz bands on the second floor.

Fire Closes U Wine and Beer U Street residents were very sad to see that there was an early morning fire at U Wine and Beer, 1351 U Street, on July 8th. It is still not clear what caused the two-alarm blaze, which has closed the liquor store for at least a month, even though the damage appears to not be that severe but rather mostly cosmetic. While the store lost a lot of its inventory, the owners did get permission from the Alcohol Beverage Regulation Administration to have a special sale to clear the inventory left over.

Owner Steve Tekle is a mainstay on the 1300 block of U Street; in addition to U Wine and Beer, he owns U Scream for Ice Cream and Aroma

Bakery. He first opened U Wine and Beer in 2006. Originally an auto body shop, in 2002 Tekle transformed the space into a convenience store called U Mini Mart. But as he noticed his neighbors wanted more than convenience food fare, he again reworked the space, into a liquor store selling high quality beer and wine. The residents of U Street have really embraced Tekle and his businesses and all hope that his store will reopen soon.

Catherine writes the neighborhood blog, U Street Girl. The blog covers happenings in the U Street corridor, whether they be cultural, artistic, epicurean, social, or lifestyle-related. You can read her blog at http://ustreetgirl. wordpress.com. ◆

Shaw Streets

by Ralph ph Brabham

Three Notable Restaurant Openings in July Foodies have three great new reasons to make Shaw a destination. Recent openings bring a destination that redefines fine dining, a gourmet sandwich shop, and a neighborhood tavern featuring seasonal goodness.

The new restaurant with the most star power is certainly Rogue 24 (922 N St., NW, rear), which opened in Blagden Alley on July 27. Among the team members are Chef/Owner RJ Cooper, who won Rendering of upgraded classroom at Seaton Elementary School. the prestigious James Beard Foundation Credit: i Domenico + Partners.

Award for Best Chef Mid-Atlantic in 2007 and the Rising Star Chef award from chic, casual atmosphere. Among the items gracStar Chefs in 2006, sommelier and manager Mating the inaugural menu are a grilled soft shell thew Carroll, previously from 2941 and the Inn crab over summer chowder, a three cheese and at Little Washington, and pastry chef Chris Ford, onion pizza, and a cheeseburger with homemade who comes from Trummer’s on Main and was a pickles, home fries and rhubarb ketchup. The StarChefs Rising Star Pastry Chef. Rogue 24’s pub will also serve eight draught beers and offer cocktail menu was designed by Derek Brown, the a full bar. It will have a rooftop deck and sidewalk acclaimed mixologist behind the Columbia Room café in the near future. who will create the avant-garde cocktail program.

The dining experience at Rogue 24 is like no other: guests, who are seated around an open kitchen Seaton Elementary situated in the center of the dining room, experiModernization Underway ence a progression of small dishes—24, hence the This summer, the first of a three-phase modernname—that excite the senses, tantalize the palate ization project is underway at Seaton Elementary and awaken curiosity.

School. Designed by Di Domenico + Partners, SUNdeVICH (1314 9th St., NW, garage) the project will bring many great changes to the opened in Naylor Court on July 22. Conceived school’s classrooms, hallways, lobby and entrance.

by Ali Bagheri and Daniel O’Brien—who also own nearby Seasonal Pantry (1314 ½ 9th St., NW)—features globally-inspired sandwiches incorporating fresh, local ingredients. Sandwiches are named for the cities that inspired them, like the Buenos Aires (skirt steak, chimichurri, fried onion strings, aioli) and the DC (a half smoke, with mustard relish, caramelized onions).

SUNdeVICH also serves salads, side dishes and desserts.

Finally, Shaw’s Tavern (520 Florida Ave., NW) opened on July 29. Owner Steve May has lined up a talented team for the neighborhood pub, which offers fresh seasonal foods cooked to order in a Transformation underway at 915 Rhode Island Avenue. Credit: Ralph Brabham

Phase One O will focus on the academic components co omponentss of the school, sch including classclass rooms, science nce rooms,, and computer labs.

Phase two will address addreess support components, such as arts and d music rooms, auditoriums, cafeterias, outdoor afeterias, gymnasiums, gy d play spaces and health suites. The third and final phase will target the school´s systems components, s, including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and technology nd technol logy systems, as well as an exterior ior modernization modern nization focusing on the roof and d windows..

The 65,000 000 square foot school building was originally ll constructed d in 1969 and d currently serves 258 students.

New Housing g Rises on nd Avenue Rhode Island Construction has begun on the United House of Prayer for All People’s latest residential development in the neighborhood. Located at 625 Rhode Island Avenue NW, the 32,125 square foot multifamily building will be comprised of 16 units, eight of which will be affordable for households earning 60 to 80 percent of the AMI, with a mix of two and three-bedroom units, ranging from 1,150 to 2,200 square feet. Additionally, there will be 11 surface level parking spaces, open green space at ground level, a green roof, a small rooftop deck, and the developers will shoot for LEED certification. The project is a Suzane Reatig Architecture design and replaces four row houses.

Renovation to Long-Vacant Office Building A long-vacant and foreboding building located 915 Rhode Island Avenue is getting a total overhaul. The 9,600 square feet three story structure was built in 1959 and is the former Howard University Medical Clinic.

The renovation will bring new window fenestrations, a new front entrance with a threestory glass entry feature, new landscaping, and new paving. The totally rehabilitated structure is being marketed for lease as an ideal office headquarters for either a medical facility, a clinic or a nonprofit group. ◆ capitalcommunitynews.com ◆ 33

kids and family

+ Notebook

Notebook

by Kathleen Donner The Write Thing publishes books written by, for and about African Americans. dothewritethinginc.org

Discover Addy’s World at the American History Museum Through Aug., 10:00 AM7:30 PM, discover Addy’s World, a new self-guided museum tour at the American History Museum, that explores the life of Addy Walker, a nine-year old girl born into slavery who escapes to freedom with her mother during the Civil War. Learn what life was like for Addy and other young African American girls as you follow the printed guide to discover objects and stories throughout the museum. Pick up free guides at the museum’s Welcome Desks; take completed and stamped guide to Museum Stores for a free gift.

Free admission. On the National Mall at 14th St. and Constitution Ave. NW. 202-633-1000. americanhistory.si.edu

DCPS Students Publish A Book of Poems: One Site.

One Week. Fifty Students.

One Book.

Fifty DCPS students assigned to Do The Write Thing’s Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) site in Ward 5 dedicated four days in July to poetry/writing/publishing workshops. From start to finish, the students were assisted by published writers in turning their rough drafts into poetic works of art. The Do The Write Thing site even became a publishing house--students designed a cover, poems were copyedited, the foreword and introduction were written--all to produce the book, Black Flames.

The students presented poems 34 ◆ Midcity DC | August 2011

Art-stronaut Family Day at American Art Museum

Discovery Guide Slave Cabin, Photo: Courtesy of National Museum of American History

from the book at a Youth Open Mic Poetry Slam at BusBoys and Poets Restaurant. Do The Write Thing

DCPS Do the Write Thing participants

of DC is a District non-profit that sponsors literacy and writing programs for children and youth. Do

On Saturday, Aug. 13, 11:30AM-3:00 PM, reach for the stars at the American Art Museum with a family day that is out of this world! See how American inventiveness, as depicted in the current The Great American Hall of Wonders exhibition, led to the great leaps of science and technology behind space travel and flight.

Try your hand at experiments and art activities, join a scavenger hunt through the galleries, and meet an astronaut from NASA. American Art Museum, Eighth and F Sts. NW. 202-633-7970. americanart. si.edu

Two-for-one Admission to the Koshland Science Museum When you tour the Koshland Science Museum on Aug. 20-21, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM, receive one ticket for regular admission when you purchase one ticket of greater or equal value. Regular admission is $5 for adults, active military, and seniors, and $3 for students. The museum will also feature handson activities that examine ways to mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce the spread of infectious disease. Museum most appropriate for teens and adults.

Contact the museum at 202-3341201 or ksm@nas.edu with questions. Koshland Science Museum, 525 E St. NW. koshland-sciencemuseum.org

Mystics Youth Basketball Championship Aug. 20, 3:00-9:00 PM, at the Washington Convention Center. Youth, ages 18 and under will participate in the final game to win the championship. For more information, call Toby Strong at 202-316-2385. Needs more info

Mother Goose on the Loose in English and Spanish Weekly on Fridays at 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM. Every other 11:00 AM, Mother Goose on the Loose takes over the Watha T Daniel Shaw Library/ Mother Goose on the Loose is an early literacy program that uses rhymes and songs to help pre-reading children get ready for reading. It incorporates music, movement, ritual, repetition, positive reinforcement, developmental tips, nursery rhymes, illustrations, puppets, musical instruments, colored scarves, and book reading into a fun-filled session for children with their parent or caregiver. Ideally this is a program designed for one on one interaction between one child and one parent or caregiver, though groups are welcome to attend as well. Ages 6-24 months.

Mother Goose on the Loose is in Spanish. Watha T. Daniel-Shaw Library, 1630 Seventh St. NW. 202-727-1288.

Dclibrary.org/watha capitalcommunitynews.com ◆ 35

Changes in School Transit Subsidy Program

Free Family Events at Arena Stage

DDOT is making changes to the School Transit Subsidy Program--a program that provides reduced fares for DC students who use Metrobus or Metrorail to travel to and from school. The changes will apply to K through 12 schools and will be implemented in phases to schools starting this fall. Eligible students will now purchase passes on their DC One Card in order to receive the discounted fare, and will only have to visit the Metro Sales Office once every school year, provided they don’t let their pass expire. The DC One Card is a single identification card that gives students access to DC government programs and facilities, recreation centers, libraries, and the Metro. DCPS students in grades 6 through 12 will automatically receive a DC One Card at school. Other students can obtain their card from one of the DC One Card Customer Service Centers. For more information about the School Transit Subsidy Program, call 202-673-1740 or visit ddot.dc.gov/schooltransitsubsidy.

Saturday afternoons, 12:301:30 PM, prior to the 2:00 PM matinee, during the run of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! (ends Oct. 2), free family-friendly events will be held in and around the Mead Center for American Theatre. Come enjoy pony rides and a petting zoo on the Sixth St. sidewalk with Pony To Go, learn some of the award-winning dance moves from the show, or share a box social lunch with your friends and family. Arena stage, 6th Street and Maine Avenue SW. arenastage.org

Monumental Martin Saturday, Aug. 27, 1:00-3:00 PM. Celebrate the dedication of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial and the life of the noted civil rights leader. Join Culture Kingdom Kids for educational and fun activities that include interactive music, storytelling, dance, and take-home crafts.

Families with children ages 4 to 12 are encouraged to attend. Free.

Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4844. anacostia.si.edu

School Beautification Day On Saturday, Aug. 20, 8:00 AM-1:00 PM, please come out on Beautification Day 2011 to “spruce up” the learning places for our kids for the upcoming school year. Come prepared to roll up your sleeves to transform our schools and contribute to our youth. To register or donate, visit dcps.dc.gov or email DCPS.beautificationday@ dc.gov or call 202-442-5447.

36 ◆ Midcity DC | August 2011

Spark!Lab at American Art Museum On Aug.19 and 26, 11:00 AMnoon, for kids 8-12, invention is more than the “eureka!” moment.

Using hands-on activities and science experiments, kids and families can learn about the process of invention. Activities incorporate history, science, and technology to explore innovation in the world around us. Aug. 19, Build a Farm Vehicle and on Aug. 26, Unravel Genes (extracting DNA). Free, but space is limited and preregistration is required; email AmericanArtPrograms@si.edu or call 202-633-8490. American Art Museum, Eighth and F Sts. NW. americanart.si.edu

Monday Crafternoons at Northwest One Library Through the rest of the summer, for ages 8-18, come in for crafts every Monday afternoon, 3:00 PM. Free. 155 L St. NW. 202-939-5946. dclibrary.org/ northwest

Facing History: Be the Artist Youth and Family Program A class designed for children with their families to explore portraiture in depth. Participants take a brief guided tour of the exhibition, Capital Portraits. Listen to a children’s story or short gallery talk; and create a piece of art using some of the same materials or concepts. As Alexander Calder’s

wire portraits. Ages 5 and up with adult. Free. National Portrait Gallery, Eighth and F Sts. NW. 202633-8300. npg.si.edu

National Zoo Kids’ Farm Saved With help from Lucy the Goat, the National Zoo has unveiled a sign announcing that the Kids’ Farm and Pizza Park will stay open for at least five more years, thanks to a generous donation from State Farm Insurance.

This success is due in large part to the efforts of the fans of the Kids’ Farm, big and small, who showed their support for keeping the exhibits open. Although things initially looked bleak, after the outpouring of community support for the Kids’ Farm, Friends of the National Zoo (FONZ) committed to finding a sponsor. Now, thanks to all who wrote, called, and attended the parent-organized fundraiser, our children have several more years of visits with Rose, Tulip, Lucy, Ziggy, & friends ahead of them.

Welcome to WebRangers!

WebRangers is the new National Park Service’s online Junior Ranger program for kids of all ages. If you love National Parks, Monuments and Historic Sites, this site is for you. Play more than 50 games and learn about your National Parks. nps.gov/webrangers

Poetry 180: A Poem a Day for American High Schools A 180-degree turn implies a turning back--in this case, to poetry. The idea behind Poetry 180 is simple: to have a poem read each day to the students of American high schools across the country.

How the program is applied is completely up to each high school.

Hearing a poem every day, especially well-written, contemporary poems that students do not have to analyze, might convince students that poetry can be an understandable, painless and even eye-opening part of their everyday experience. This idea was developed by Billy Collins, Former Poet Lau-

reate of the United States. Read more at loc.gov/poetry/180.

White House Internships: A Public Service Leadership Program The White House Internship Program provides a unique opportunity to gain valuable professional experience and build leadership skills. This hands-on program is designed to mentor and cultivate today’s young leaders, strengthen their understanding of the Executive Office and prepare them for future public service opportunities. The application period for the Spring 2012 White House Internship Program is now open.

Applicants have until September 11, 2011 to apply for a Spring 2012 White House Internship.

Visit whitehouse.gov for details.

National Geographic Kids - Dare to Explore! kids.nationalgeographic.com is a great website for kids, featuring games, videos, animals and pets, photos, information on different countries, fun stuff, community, news, animal jam and a special section for little kids.

“Flights of Fancy” Stories for Children During August, the National Air and Space Museum will present Flights of Fancy at 11:00 AM on Aug. 6, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 25 and 25, and at 1:30 PM on Aug. 6, 13, 20 and 27. Museum staff read stories about famous aviators, hotair balloon flights, trips to Mars, characters visible in the night sky, or creatures that have their own wings. Each session includes one story and a hands-on activity. Free.

National Air and Space Museum, 6th Street and Independence Avenue SW. nasm.si.edu

Kids Duffle Bag Day at Nationals Park On Aug. 21, 1:35 PM, Nats vs.

Phillies, there will be free duffle bags for the first 12 and under 10,000 fans in attendance 12 and under. Tickets $5 and up. washington.nationals.mlb.com. ◆

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at home

+ Home / Style

Look for “Opportunities” To Save on Home Décor

by Mark F. Johnson

O

ne of the best things about summer’s end, aside from a break from the steamy weather, is the hot deals that abound at home décor stores as they attempt to clear out certain merchandise.

But many who are in-the-know also realize that there’s plenty of good buys out there that don’t await a sale to be affordable.

In addition to the stores selling great vintage finds to which I often refer, I also recommend a visit to a few of the city’s “opportunity shops” to find great previously owned, well-maintained, often higher-end vintage pieces available at generally fabulous prices. One way to think of opp shops is as “glorified” thrift stores. I say “glorified” because most opportunity shops are affiliated with a church or a well-established organization that provides help to disadvantaged members of the community. The pieces that you find are often a cut above as well.

I stopped by three of my favorite opp shops recently and I was reminded of how much really good stuff comes out of homes in and around Washington. If you take advantage of places like the ones mentioned below, it means quite simply that you’re smart and all about adding character and charm to your space

tracks that used to carry the trolley to Georgetown University, is full of the art, furniture, glassware, lighting , silverware , jewelry and other objets that one would expect to find in the surrounding Georgetown homes.

I’m sure these fine pieces come from all over the area but they are definitely from places where people could afford to buy with an eye to quality, taste and style. While most of what is here would fall under the category of “antique” there is the occasional Art Deco or

Above and Left: Scenes from The Grorgetown Opportunity Shop

either disappointed or pleasantly surprised. Obviously the pieces here are of some provenance. The staff, mostly volunteers, can sometimes behave as if they are working at Sotheby’s. This either helps to add “oompf ” or gets in the way of what could be a more fun shopping experience. I’m not sure, and you should decide for yourself. But definitely put this place on your list---It’s well worth a visit if you’re looking to buy, donate, consign or just learn the value of something that you have.

Christ Child Opportunity Shop in Georgetown My first visit was to Georgetown, to the Christ Child Opportunity shop at 1427 Wisconsin Avenue near P Street, NW. Lower Wisconsin Avenue used to be home to many more antique shops but over the years a number of them have closed, or moved further north up Wisconsin Ave. But this place, in a large, two-story building on a prominent block facing the old streetcar 38 ◆ Midcity DC | August 2011

The Opportunity Shop at St Albans

Modern piece as well. For those of you who are familiar with Upscale Resale, the suburban consignment chain that lowers pricing based on length of time the item has been in the store, you already have a leg up at this place.

If you’re one to equate an opportunity shop with a standard thrift store, then you will be

Once again, on Wisconsin Avenue, but at Massachusetts Avenue, NW, we are still far from the `hood. But, to repeat, this probably works to the good of those searching for higher-end stuff. Located behind a pair of red doors in a building situated very near the National Cathedral, this small shop carries trinkets like glassware, art , dishes, serving trays, some jewelry, lighting and also clothing. Don’t expect to find much furniture here at all. But put it on your list nevertheless as you search for small things that have come from homes around the area that could afford to put some money into them. Many pieces are aged and re-

tain the stamp of “gentry” all over them. Again, staffed by volunteers mostly who probably come from the neighborhood, don’t expect a “down-home” greeting but if your goal is to snatch up some treasure cheaply you can deal with the “upstairs” demeanor. Note that the St. Albans Opportunity Shop is closed until after Labor Day.

Martha’s Table Opportunity Shop/ Thrift Store Now, we’re finally back in U/14 at one of our community’s long-standing self-help facilities. Martha’s Table has been in the business of helping women get back on their feet since 14th Street was enduring struggling times. Many of those who work here still know what it is like to make ends meet. To that end, you certainly can find lots of clothing, shoes and other such necessities here, many from some of the same higher-income homes I would think. But, they do occasionally have some quite cool smaller pieces like barware, silverware, dishes and serving items.

People have been known to find some chic lighting pieces here as well as other objets that could help accessorize a room nicely. Don’t expect to find big pieces of furniture at Martha’s, but hey, you’re right up the street from U/14’s furniture row and places like Ruff and Ready (at least until the end of August), Room and Board, Hunted House, Miss Pixies and Reincarnations are just a walk away.

Opportunities to find great things at unbelievable prices are one of the best things about the end of summer. But, if you’d rather hop a flight out of town or spend extra time at the pool, the prices at these places will still be warm and friendly once you get back and there are always new arrivals. ◆

It takes a Village. Shop Locally.

www.capitalcommunitynews.com

capitalcommunitynews.com ◆ 39

at home

+ Garden Fairy

Keeping your Cool in your garden.

by Sarah McLauglin @ OLD CITY green

W

ell, it’s definitely summer time here in DC! Every person, pet, and pest in the city is feeling the heat, and most likely your garden is too. If your leaves are wilting, or your soil is dry, the garden is thirsty! Make sure that you give your plants plenty of water in the early mornings and early evenings, preferably when the sun is not too bright. (By the way, make sure you drink plenty of water when you are outside. Your plants won’t make it if you don’t take care of yourself.)

Bugs Summer is also when the bugs come out to play...you may be starting to notice some holes in your squash leaves, or caterpillars on your pepper plants. There is nothing more frustrating than going outside with an empty bowl, ready to pick some vine-ripened golden tomatoes, only to find that they were eaten by rats overnight!

You may be tempted to rush out to Home Depot and buy up every Sarah McLauglin tending her garden bug and rodent killing chemical on the shelf, but consider this; scare rats, squirrels, deer, and more chemicals in pesticides can be ab- away. Drip peppermint oil or shake sorbed through the roots of plants garlic powder around plants, make or the skins on vegetables—the a potion out of Tabasco sauce, or same chemicals that are bad for the strong basil solution. White flies pests are bad for you, too. So before and aphids are attracted to yellow, you buy, consider some other, sim- so hanging a yellow sticky trap close pler, more natural methods. to affected plants to draw them off the leaves and onto the trap. Get rid of slugs by placing a half cup of Going green One of the best deterrents beer partially buried in your garfor garden pests is anything with den—the slugs are attracted to the a strong odor-ingredient you are yeast, get drunk, and drown! Drape likely to have around your house! shiny tinsel or hang foil pie tins near Home brewed chili powder or gar- berry bushes or tomato plants that lic teas can be sprayed on plants to are getting eaten by crows or other 40 ◆ Midcity DC | August 2011

birds--the glint of the sun simulates fire and scares the birds away.

Using these methods will not keep your garden entirely pest free, but remember that you WANT critters in your garden! There is a circle of life that has to keep some sort of balance.

You need ladybugs, praying mantises, bees and some spiders to keep things moving and blooming.

However, natural potions and solutions such as these can keep your fruits and veggies relatively uneaten, and keep them safe and chemical free for you and all those delicious

dishes you plan on cooking And, the friendly bugs can handle it.

We have created a guide to different garden pests that are common here in DC, and provided organic, natural management ideas for each of them. You can find our pest management guide on our website, at oldcitygreen. com <http://oldcitygreen.com>.

Bring people and plants together and a Community sprouts up.

We at OLD CITY green have been leading some workshops on the awesome new rooftop garden at Bread for the City, just around the corner from us. Clients, volunteers, and staff all work together to keep the garden producing lots of vitamin-packed goodness for the food pantry. We’ve learned about transplanting, potting, irrigation, harvesting, and of course, pest management. I encourage you to check out this beautiful space by participating in a volunteer workday, or even attending one of our free workshops! Go to breadforthecity.org <http://breadforthecity.org> to find out more.

Remember, stay hydrated, try to remain cool, eat your fresh vegetables, and play in the water whenever you can.

Sarah McLaughlin helps people find beautiful and delicious plants for their gardens at OLD CITY green, and teaches an after school gardening program for elementary school students. She loves helping kids to discover that sun-gold tomatoes taste better than candy!

OLD CITY green. Where people and plants come together.

Corner of 9th and N Street. NW ◆

+ Changing Hands Changing hands is a list of most residential sales in the District of Columbia from the previous month. A feature of every issue, this list, based on the MRIS, is provided courtesy of Don Denton, manager of the Coldwell Banker office on Capitol Hill. The list includes address, sales price and number of bedrooms.

COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 1300 FAIRMONT ST NW 1345 EUCLID ST NW 1422 MONROE ST NW 1341 IRVING ST NW 744 PRINCETON PL NW 1346 SPRING RD NW 1327 BELMONT ST NW

$1,400,000 $800,000 $690,000 $562,000 $562,000 $550,500 $550,000

5 8 4 0 4 3 4

$579,900 $527,000 $395,000 $387,000 $355,000 $285,000 $181,700 $160,000

4 4 4 6 3 3 3 3

ECKINGTON 147 RANDOLPH PL NW 134 R ST NE 1818 1ST ST NW 78 S ST NW 316 TODD PL NE 1711 NORTH CAPITOL ST NE 203 S ST NE 156 TODD PL NE

KALORAMA 2416 TRACY PL NW 2127 LEROY PL NW 1824 KALORAMA RD NW 2237 BANCROFT PL NW 2200 R ST NW 1928 BILTMORE ST NW 2314 ASHMEAD PL NW

1531 VERMONT AVE NW

Neighborhood

Close Price

Br

1620 BUCHANAN ST NE 1712 WEBSTER ST NE

16TH STREET HEIGHTS 1520 FARRAGUT ST NW 1403 CRITTENDEN ST NW 1309 FARRAGUT ST NW 1306 DELAFIELD PL NW 1204 INGRAHAM ST NW 1230 HAMILTON ST NW

$725,000 $685,000 $620,500 $548,600 $356,000 $340,000

4 6 4 6 2 6

$260,000 $250,000 $235,000 $136,000

3 4 4 3

$535,000 $485,000 $419,000 $377,000 $358,500 $265,000 $218,000 $210,000 $200,000

7 4 3 4 4 3 3 3 3

$500,000 $490,000 $455,000 $455,000 $425,000 $328,500 $320,000 $300,000 $300,000

3 5 3 5 4 3 3 2 3

BRENTWOOD 1331 DOWNING ST NE 2200 15TH ST NE 2337 15TH ST NE 2412 10TH ST NE

BRIGHTWOOD 6411 PINEY BRANCH RD NW 6123 14TH ST NW 1401 RITTENHOUSE ST NW 5722 3RD ST NW 633 POWHATAN PL NW 411 OGLETHORPE ST NW 523 TUCKERMAN ST NW 423 MARIETTA PL NW 517 FERN PL NW

7

$795,000

4

CONDO

$399,000 $350,000

3 3

3006 14TH ST NE 1000 TAYLOR ST NE 1510 NEWTON ST NE 1410 HAMLIN ST NE 2425 NORTH CAPITOL ST NE 4713 6TH ST NE 4803 6TH ST NE 318 BRYANT ST NE 1715 MONROE ST NE

3925 ILLINOIS AVE NW 4113 ILLINOIS AVE NW 4728 5TH ST NW 4221 3RD ST NW 4816 5TH ST NW 4314 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW 410 INGRAHAM ST NW 5127 5TH ST NW 617 FARRAGUT ST NW 318 FARRAGUT ST NW

4 4 3 3 2 3 3 3 3

$582,000 $373,000

3 2

$410,000 $355,700 $250,000 $218,000 $190,000 $190,000 $179,900 $150,000 $136,250 $117,300 $50,000

3 3 3 2 4 3 3 3 2 2 3

$550,000

2

$380,000 $360,000 $293,597 $279,900 $190,000

3 3 3 3 3

$242,000

1

$1,175,000 $1,025,000 $925,000 $889,000 $784,257 $720,000 $720,000

6 4 6 6 5 6 5

$1,055,000 $565,000 $392,750 $555,000

2 2 1 2

$178,000 $160,000

1 0

$888,000 $799,000 $765,000 $650,000 $555,000 $545,000 $500,000 $480,000 $465,000 $348,000 $211,600 $175,000

3 3 4 5 3 3 3 3 3 2 3 3

$62,000

1

$1,150,000 $665,000 $622,000 $560,000 $540,000 $518,000 $475,000 $445,000 $434,000

2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1

$590,000 $580,000 $483,000 $459,000 $441,000 $415,000 $409,000 $407,000 $399,999 $363,000

4 3 4 4 4 5 4 3 4 4

$799,900 $682,500 $630,000 $580,000 $557,000 $495,000 $476,900 $432,000 $387,500

2 2 3 2 2 2 2 2 2

U STREET / OLD CITY # 2 1010 W ST NW

WOODRIDGE

16TH STREET HEIGHTS

PETWORTH

BROOKLAND

1414 MONTELLO AVE NE 1145 OATES ST NE 1115 OWEN PL NE 1172 MORSE ST NE 1740 LANG PL NE 1426 MORSE ST NE 1229 16TH ST NE 1400 MONTELLO AVE NE 1633 L ST NE 1720 LANG PL NE 1741 LYMAN PL NE

$1,505,000

OLD CITY 650 F ST NE 162 TENNESSEE AVE NE 1007 E ST NE 823 8TH ST NE 1428 A ST NE 902 8TH ST NE 635 L ST NE 1013 15TH ST SE 1703 D ST SE 827 L ST NE 566 23RD PL NE 1507 K ST SE

$324,500 $289,000 $286,500 $242,000 $240,000 $239,000 $215,000 $200,000 $154,900

TRINIDAD

3607 20TH ST NE 2159 30TH ST NE 3708 24TH ST NE 3050 VISTA ST NE 3305 22ND ST NE

MOUNT PLEASANT 1728 PARK RD NW 1886 MONROE ST NW 1800 LAMONT ST NW 1802 LAMONT ST NW 1846 INGLESIDE TER NW 1831 LAMONT ST NW 3163 18TH ST NW

1818 8TH ST NW 1613 5TH ST NW

6 3 3 3 3 2 6

MICHIGAN PARK

FEE SIMPLE

3 3

SHAW

$875,000 $540,000 $475,000 $460,000 $390,000 $380,500 $825,000

LOGAN SHAW 1622 6TH ST NW

5216 12TH ST NE 600 OGLETHORPE ST NE 5563 CHILLUM PL NE 423 JEFFERSON ST NE 814 JEFFERSON ST NE 5125 SOUTH DAKOTA AVE NE 1234 FARADAY PL NE 405 ONEIDA ST NE 417 MADISON ST NE

6 4 5 4 9 6 4

LOGAN CIRCLE

$349,700 $345,000

RIGGS PARK

$6,500,000 $2,100,000 $2,100,000 $2,055,000 $1,700,000 $1,560,000 $910,000

LEDROIT PARK 100 W ST NW 311 ELM ST NW 338 ELM ST NW 336 U ST NW 139 THOMAS ST NW 1827 5TH ST NW 2211 1ST ST NW

826 DELAFIELD PL NW 4313 2ND ST NW

1352 LONGFELLOW ST NW #205

ADAMS MORGAN 2351 CHAMPLAIN ST NW #PENTHOUSE 4 2328 CHAMPLAIN ST NW #329 2526 17TH ST NW #101 1701 KALORAMA RD NW #310

BRIGHTWOOD 6425 14TH ST NW #105 422 BUTTERNUT ST NW ## 106

BROOKLAND 4420 1ST PL NE #21

CENTRAL 2301 N ST NW #702 916 G ST NW #402 1830 JEFFERSON PL NW #7 1010 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #402 1010 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #PH-109 2425 L ST NW #419 2555 PENNSYLVANIA AVE NW #214 1111 25TH ST NW #505 400 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #820

COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 2307 15TH ST NW #3 1455 FLORIDA AVE NW #3A 1425 EUCLID ST NW #12 1451 BELMONT ST NW #124 1451 BELMONT ST NW #424 1390 KENYON ST NW #701 1613 HARVARD ST NW #413 1324 EUCLID ST NW #305 1419 CLIFTON ST NW #103 ◆

capitalcommunitynews.com ◆ 41

CLASSIFIEDS ADDRESS NUMBERS

GUTTERS

CLEANING SERVICES 20% OFF with this ad

PAINTING

GUTTERS

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AIR CONDITIONING AIR CONDITIONING

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ELECTRICIAN

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THOMAS LANDSCAPES

Specializing in urban landscapes since 1989

THE HILL’S ELECTRICIAN Since 1990

COMPUTER

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MOVING & HAULING

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42 ◆ Midcity DC | August 2011

PLUMBING

Awarded the Super Service Award from Angie's List in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 Stephen D. Wilcox Master Electrician References Available Licensed - Insured - Bonded

HANDYMAN & HAULING CO Handyman

Hauling

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Junk Removal Demolition Yard Cleanup Estate Cleanup Light Moving

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license # 1948 • MD DC VA

Dial A Plumber, LLC®

• Licensed Gas Fitter • Water Heater • Boiler Work • Serving DC • References John • Drain Service • Furness Repair & Replacement

Licensed Bonded Insured

Kenny

202-251-1479 DC P

L U M M E R

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WAIT NO MORE PLUMBING 24 hour plumbing service. Master plumber. No job too small. DC license # 1164. Darrell White. 202-575-1885 or 202-812-7115 (tf)

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EXPERT WORKMANSHIP

AT

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• New or Re-Roofing • Tear-Off & Replacement • Flat Roof Specialist • Copper, Tin, Sheet Metal & Rolled • Seamless & Flat Roofs • Re-Sealing • Tar, Asphalt, Gravel, Hot Coats • Modified Bitumen • Ask about our gutter specials Insurance Claims • Free Estimates • 24Hr. Service

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Hill Family Owned & Operated

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Call William at

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www.whsplumbingandheating.com

ROOFING

OVER 30

FLAT ROOF SPECIALIST WE STOP LEAKS! • Roof Repairs • Roof Coatings • Rubber • Metal • Slate

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Our Prices Won’t be Beat!

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DC Lic. 7610

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24 Hour Emergency

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• • • • • •

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DANIEL PARKS

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WITH THIS AD

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capitalcommunitynews.com ◆ 43

YOUR AD COULD BE HERE & seen by thousands of potential new customers in your direct market!

CONTACT Kira @ 202-400-3508 kira@hillrag.com to reserve your space!