Dp 01 01 2014

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Wednesday, January 1, 2014

The Dupont Current ice kings ■ Public safety: Inspector By KATIE PEARCE Current Staff Writer

Serving Dupont Circle, Kalorama & Logan Circle

Vol. XII, No. 31

Fire and EMS management faulted general reviews staff shortages A new report has found various problems with staffing and overtime in the D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department, many of which the agency hopes to resolve through a controversial shift in work schedules. The Dec. 18 report, from the D.C. Office of the Inspector General, came specifically in response to “unusually high” numbers of staff absences — and correspondingly slow emergency response times — reported during the New Year’s holidays last year. FEMS spokesperson Timothy Jackson says the agency is better prepared for this New Year’s, particularly after tightening up a loophole that allowed employees to take unexcused sick leave. This year, FEMS has suspended its “Minor Illness Program” on holidays, meaning employees who take sick days are required to report to clinics or urgent-care facilities. “We anticipate the number of unexcused absences to be diminished greatly,” Jackson said. “That was one of the critical measures that was necessary to take so that proper See Staffing/Page 7

Cyclists cite trail gaps at council hearing By ELIZABETH WIENER Current Staff Writer

Gonzaga thrashed New Jersey’s Hun School of Princeton 6-0 on Monday night to win the 21st annual Purple Puck tournament at Fort Dupont Ice Arena. The Eagles had senior forward Bobby Halley and sophomore forward Jack Sanborn connect on four goals in the romp. The Eagles now boast a 13-0-1 record.

Brian Kapur/The Current

With ever more cyclists pedaling District roads and bike trails, the D.C. Department of Transportation is still struggling to achieve some goals of a 2005 plan aimed at making the city safe and convenient for two-wheelers. Witnesses at a December D.C. Council hearing praised the transportation agency’s progress in expanding cycle tracks and shared lanes downtown. But they pointed out notable gaps in the bike trail system that they said endanger both commuters and recreational cyclists. On several major bike trails, they said, progress has been frustratingly slow: ■ The popular Rock Creek bike trail, long due for a rehab, is in such bad shape — with crumbling and buckled asphalt — that some cyclists avoid it, witnesses said. The National Zoo tunnel has only one lane for bikes, precariously close to the roadbed, and there’s a “suicide See Bikes/Page 23

The trail in Rock Creek Park narrows dangerously at the National Zoo tunnel, one of several critical bike infrastructure shortfalls discussed at the hearing.

Bill Petros/Current file photo

Kalorama Park getting new garden, other fixes By KATIE PEARCE Current Staff Writer

School system backs off plan to shift some Walls students won’t yet hold high schoolers By GRAHAM VYSE

■ Education: Francis-Stevens

The new garden that appeared in mid-December at Kalorama Park may look like a simple aesthetic upgrade, but it’s just one part of a complex effort to resolve longrunning problems at the site. The garden, installed at the park’s northwest entrance at Belmont Road and 19th Street, came about through a grant won last spring. After securing $5,000 from Lowe’s and Keep America Beautiful, the Fund for Kalorama Park community group enlisted a professional landscape designer to get to work. But that’s where progress initially halted. The designer, Dianne Seiffert, warned the group that any plantings would be futile without first addressing the park’s bigger problems with runoff and soil erosion. “I told them …

Designer Diane Seiffert, left, and Kathryn Kross helped plant a new garden last month at Kalorama Park’s entrance at 19th Street and Belmont Road.

Bill Petros/The Current

Current Staff Writer

you’re going to find that you’re wasting your investment on the planting,” she said in an interview. The Fund for Kalorama Park was already well aware of those problems — particularly the way rainwater spilled down the central walkway into the street — but See Garden/Page 12

Many School Without Walls parents are relieved that D.C. Public Schools is nixing the notion of high school classes at the Francis-Stevens campus next year. The school system announced its decision in a Dec. 20 letter to a working group of parents from both campuses of the recently merged school, which includes an open-

enrollment pre-K-through-eighthgrade school and a magnet high school program. In early November, the working group had issued a formal recommendation against high schoolers taking time out of their days to travel the mile and a half between the 2130 G St. upper school and the 2425 N St. lower school, the second of which was formerly Francis-Stevens Education Campus. The school system was considering the shared campus idea as part of the merger that took effect this year in order to save Francis-Stevens See Walls/Page 5

NEWS

EVENTS

SHERWOOD

INDEX Calendar/16 Classifieds/22 District Digest/2 Dupont Circle Citizen/11 Exhibits/17 In Your Neighborhood/6 Opinion/8 Police Report/4 Real Estate/15 School Dispatches/10 Service Directory/19 Theater/16

D.C. Council panel backs two bills for property tax relief — Page 3

Studio Theatre extends British political comedy — Page 16

‘No problem’ isn’t the most annoying phrase? Whatever. — Page 8

Tips? Contact us at newsdesk@currentnewspapers.com

2

Wednesday, January 1, 2014

The Current

District Digest Population growth still strong in D.C. The District added 13,022 residents between July 2012 and July 2013, bringing the city’s total population to 646,499, according to new U.S. Census Bureau estimates. The increase represents one of the nation’s fastest population growth rates and the District’s highest population since the 1970s, according to a news release from Mayor Vincent Gray’s office. Most of the increase — 8,584 residents — comes from people who moved to D.C.; there was also a gain from 4,438 births. “This continued growth is an endorsement of the livability of our dynamic city and a literal return on the investment that we have made in improved city services, transportation choices, public safety, education quality, school facilities, parks, libraries and in the quality and convenience of our many neighborhoods,� Harriet Tregoning, director of the D.C. Office of Planning, says in the news release.

Meditation center debuts in Palisades

The new Science of Spirituality Meditation Center in the Palisades is offering a free meditation class on Monday nights from 7:30 to 9 starting Jan. 6. The organization, an international nonprofit, recently purchased

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the building at 2950 Arizona Ave. NW — a former Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Spiritual leader and author H.H. Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj leads the group, which has been active in D.C. since 1953, according to a news release. The new classes will offer Jyoti meditation, “a discipline focusing on the experience of inner light,� according to the release. Introductory classes will run for a series of four-week sessions, with students able to sign up for intermediate and advanced classes throughout the year. For more information visit tinyurl.com/dc-meditate.

Children’s Chorus to hold auditions

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The Children’s Chorus of Washington is holding open auditions for young singers interested in joining its current season. The chorus is seeking singers for five ensembles that showcase children from ages 9 to 18. Younger students, from ages 6 to 9, can join instructional programs that help prepare them to someday join the ensembles. Auditions will be held Jan. 9 at the Metropolitan Memorial United Methodist Church, 3401 Nebraska Ave. NW, and Jan. 15 at the Wisconsin Avenue Baptist Church, 3920 Alton Place. NW. Call 202237-1005 to schedule an audition time. The chorus will perform at venues including the Kennedy Center, the steps of the U.S. Capitol and various locations in Boston.

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As a matter of policy, The Current corrects all errors of substance. To report an error, call the managing editor at 202-567-2011.

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Delivered weekly to homes and businesses in Northwest Washington Publisher & Editor Davis Kennedy Managing Editor Chris Kain Assistant Managing Editor Beth Cope Advertising Director Gary Socha Account Executive Shani Madden Account Executive Richa Marwah Account Executive George Steinbraker Advertising published in The Current Newspapers is accepted on the premise that the merchandise and services as offered are accurately described and are available to customers at the advertised price. Advertising that does not conform to these standards, or that is deceptive or misleading, is never knowingly accepted. If any Current Newspapers reader encounters non-compliance with these standards, we ask that you inform us. All advertising and editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without permission from the publisher. Subscription by mail — $52 per year

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Telephone: 202-244-7223 newsdesk@currentnewspapers.com E-mail Address Street Address

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5185 MacArthur Blvd. NW, Suite 102 Post Office Box 40400 Washington, D.C. 20016-0400 Mailing Address

The Current Wednesday, January 1, 2014

3

D.C. Council committee endorses pair of property tax relief measures By BRADY HOLT Current Staff Writer

A D.C. Council committee recently approved two property tax relief bills, one targeted at low- and moderate-income seniors and the other designed to cushion against soaring assessments. The Committee on Finance and Revenue unanimously backed the two measures at a Dec. 16 markup session with minimal discussion, sending them to the full council for review in the new year.

The Senior Citizen Real Property Tax Relief Act of 2013 would provide a full property tax exemption for residents with a household income of $60,000 or less who are at least 75 years old and who have lived in the District for at least 15 consecutive years. This measure was introduced by at-large Council member Anita Bonds, who had proposed a 25-year residency requirement. The committee amended the bill based on feedback from at-large member David Catania. “Our older residents on limited fixed incomes, regardless of their length of residency, are fac-

ing challenges paying their property taxes,� Catania said at the markup session. Many seniors already have their property tax burdens halved — currently, those with household incomes of less than $100,000. That cap will increase to $125,000 in 2015, based on recently approved council legislation. The other property tax bill adopted by the finance committee on Dec. 16 was the Residential Real Property Tax Relief Act of 2013. This bill, from Ward 2 Council member Jack Evans, would reduce the cap on annual increases to taxable property value assess-

ments from 10 percent to 5 percent. The District has long used such a policy to protect longtime homeowners from the tax burdens of soaring property values, and the council has steadily reduced the annual limit over the years. But Evans has said that even 10 percent per year is too steep. “Nobody gets a 10 percent pay increase each year,� Evans said when the bill was introduced. This measure would also eliminate a requirement that, despite the cap on increases, a property must be taxed on at least 40 percent of its assessed value.

At New Year’s, area businesses ready to help with resolutions By KAT LUCERO Current Staff Writer

Come Join Us...

With the arrival of a new year, Washingtonians are contemplating new things to try or new ways to improve their well-being. For many people, a new year means a fresh start for self-improvement. And numerous local businesses and organizations are helping people achieve their goals for the new year.

family, doing well at work or doing any type of charity.� To help his clients to succeed at their goals, he offers individual training sessions with fitness coaches. For new members, he offers a 30-day personal training package that costs $89. It includes a health assessment and unlimited use of the facility. For more information on The Body You Want, call 202-315-1457 or visit thebodyyouwant.com.

Fitness

Among the most common resolutions for the new year is the goal to lead a healthier lifestyle. That usually entails hitting the gym or fitness center or joining one, so attendance usually spikes around this time of year. Personal trainer Josef Brandenburg is familiar with this annual trend. For 15 years, he has helped people pursue improved health. He says people resolve to exercise more because being healthy impacts everything else in their lives. “Everything requires energy and health,� says Brandenburg, owner of The Body You Want, a Georgetown gym. “If you don’t have energy, it doesn’t matter how much time you have. You can’t really do anything else like spending time with your

Meditation

In addition to becoming physically healthy, many are looking for peace and a stable state of mind for the new year. At the Vajrayogini Buddhist Center, at 1787 Columbia Road in Adams Morgan, there’s usually an uptick in attendance at mediation sessions in January. “Traditionally, we do see classes’ attendance increase quite a bit around this time,� says education coordinator Chris Jamison, who has been volunteering at the center for eight years. One of the main offerings, at various satellite locations, are introductory classes to meditation. “We always try to pick a topic that we think resonates people in the See Resolutions/Page 5

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Call us for a tour: 202-338-6111 ASSISTED LIVING FOR INDEPENDENT PEOPLE

The week ahead Wednesday, Jan. 8 Five D.C. Council committees will hold a joint public hearing on the Sustainable DC Omnibus Act. The hearing will begin at 11 a.m. in Room 500 of the John A. Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. â– DC Solar United Neighborhoods will hold an informational meeting on plans to coordinate a solar bulk purchases for homes in Ward 3. The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. at the Cleveland Park Library, 3310 Connecticut Ave. NW.

Thursday, Jan. 9

The D.C. Historic Preservation Review Board will meet at 9 a.m. in Room 220 South, One Judiciary Square, 441 4th St. NW. ■The National Capital Planning Commission will hold its monthly meeting, which will include review of final site and building plans for the Old Post Office Building redevelopment and an informational presentation on the D.C. Streetcar System Plan. The meeting will begin at 1 p.m. in the commission’s offices at Suite 500, 401 9th St. NW. ■The Mayor’s Agent for Historic Preservation will hold a public hearing on an after-the-fact application for roof replacement at 2422 Tracy Place in the Sheridan-Kalorama Historic District. The hearing will begin at 1:30 p.m. in Suite E650, 1100 4th St. SW. ■The Georgetown Business Association and the Citizens Association of Georgetown will host a mayoral debate. The event will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Dumbarton House, 2715 Q St. NW. Reservations are requested; call 202-337-2288.

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Wednesday, January 1, 2014

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Theft from auto â– 1200-1299 block, L St.; 9:46 p.m. Dec. 24. â– 700-749 block, 10th St.; 7:29 a.m. Dec. 27. â– 900-999 block, New York Ave.; 6:01 p.m. Dec. 27. â– G and 12th streets; 3:26 a.m. Dec. 29. â– 900-999 block, G St.; 4 a.m. Dec. 29. â– 1000-1099 block, 12th St.; 12:30 p.m. Dec. 29. â– 1200-1299 block, K St.; 9:54 p.m. Dec. 29. Theft â– 13th and F streets; 4:26 p.m. Dec. 23. â– 500-599 block, 14th St.; 2 p.m. Dec. 26. â– 1200-1299 block, G St.; 9:07 p.m. Dec. 26. â– 700-723 block, 14th St.; 11:05 a.m. Dec. 27. â– 900-999 block, E St.; 5:12 p.m. Dec. 27. â– 1000-1099 block, F St.; 1:19 p.m. Dec. 28. â– 1200-1299 block, New York Ave.; 7:26 p.m. Dec. 29.

Theft from auto â– 3200-3299 block, 45th St.; 2:42 p.m. Dec. 23. Theft â– 4700-4899 block, Woodway Lane; 11:48 a.m. Dec. 24. â– 3200-3301 block, New Mexico Ave.; 10:30 a.m. Dec. 27.

Robbery â– 1700-1799 block, Connecticut Ave.; 8:37 p.m. Dec. 23. â– 1700-1799 block, Willard St.; 12:51 a.m. Dec. 28 (with gun). Theft from auto â– 1820-1899 block, 23rd St.; 10:46 a.m. Dec. 24. â– 1500-1599 block, N St.; 9:20 p.m. Dec. 24. â– 15th and N streets; 11:03 a.m. Dec. 25. â– 1200-1219 block, 19th St.; 2:51 a.m. Dec. 27. â– 2200-2299 block, Bancroft Place; 5:47 a.m. Dec. 27. â– 1800-1899 block, Jefferson Place; 6:40 a.m. Dec. 27. â– 1250-1299 block, 22nd St.; 8:43 a.m. Dec. 27. â– 1250-1299 block, 22nd St.; 9:46 a.m. Dec. 27. â– 1700-1799 block, Massachusetts Ave.; 5:20 a.m. Dec. 28. Theft â– 1-7 block, Dupont Circle; 10:24 a.m. Dec. 23. â– 1300-1699 block, Connecticut Ave.; 11:06 a.m. Dec. 23. â– 1721-1799 block, 19th St.; 4:43 p.m. Dec. 23. â– 1300-1699 block, Connecticut Ave.; 11 a.m. Dec. 24. â– 1400-1499 block, P St.; 3:20 p.m. Dec. 26. â– 1200-1217 block, 18th St.; 1:40 a.m. Dec. 28. â– 1300-1699 block, Connecticut Ave.; 11:51 a.m. Dec. 28.

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Theft from auto â– 3100-3199 block, N St.; 10:45 p.m. Dec. 23. â– 1900-1999 block, 38th St.; 10 p.m. Dec. 29. Theft â– 3200-3275 block, M St.; 4:58 p.m. Dec. 23. â– 3200-3275 block, M St. 6 p.m. Dec. 23. â– 3200-3247 block, O St.; 2 p.m. Dec. 25. â– 3200-3275 block, M St.; 3:30 p.m. Dec. 26. â– 3000-3029 block, K St.; 2:36 p.m. Dec. 28. â– 3200-3275 block, M St.; 2:42 p.m. Dec. 28.

â– 1700-1733 block, Euclid St.; 7:30 a.m. Dec. 23. â– 1909-1999 block, 19th St.; 4:20 a.m. Dec. 24. â– 2120-2323 block, Ontario Road; 1:06 p.m. Dec. 24. â– 2400-2499 block, 18th St.; 7:01 p.m. Dec. 25. â– 2200-2260 block, Champlain St.; 2:45 a.m. Dec. 27. â– 1630-1699 block, Euclid St.; 11:40 a.m. Dec. 27. â– 1800-1899 block, Florida Ave.; 10:39 p.m. Dec. 27. â– 2700-2799 block, Quarry Road; 3:21 a.m. Dec. 28. â– 1730-1797 block, Lanier Place; 10:16 a.m. Dec. 28. â– 2200-2299 block, Old Morgan School Place; 7:07 p.m. Dec. 28. Theft â– 2100-2299 block, 17th St.; 12:38 p.m. Dec. 23. â– 1800-1899 block, Biltmore St.; 1:43 p.m. Dec. 23. â– 2400-2499 block, 18th St.; 10 p.m. Dec. 23.

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Robbery â– 1300-1399 block, S St.; noon Dec. 28. Assault with a dangerous weapon â– 1200-1299 block, N St.; 1:40 p.m. Dec. 27. Burglary â– 1517-1599 block, 14th St.; 8:20 a.m. Dec. 24. â– 1400-1499 block, 9th St.; 5:44 a.m. Dec. 27. Theft from auto â– 1200-1299 block, 13th St.; 8 a.m. Dec. 23. â– 1400-1499 block, 10th St.; 9:25 a.m. Dec. 23. â– 1330-1399 block, Q St.; 3:27 p.m. Dec. 23. â– 1500-1599 block, 10th St.; 9:10 p.m. Dec. 23. â– 1500-1599 block, 10th St.; 1 a.m. Dec. 24. â– 1300-1399 block, Rhode Island Ave.; 1:40 p.m. Dec. 26. â– 1320-1399 block, N St.; 5:05 p.m. Dec. 26. â– 1101-1199 block, 11th St.; 1:44 a.m. Dec. 28. â– 1200-1299 block, 12th St.; 10:30 a.m. Dec. 28. â– L and 12th streets; 12:29 a.m. Dec. 29. Theft â– 1500-1599 block, 9th St.; 9:28 a.m. Dec. 23. â– 1200-1299 block, R St.; 9:36 a.m. Dec. 23. â– 1200-1299 block, Vermont Ave.; 11:01 a.m. Dec. 23. â– 1100-1199 block, 10th St.; 2 p.m. Dec. 23. â– 1400-1499 block, P St.; 4:25 p.m. Dec. 24. â– 1200-1299 block, 11th St.; 4 a.m. Dec. 25. â– 1400-1499 block, 12th St.; 6:40 p.m. Dec. 25. â– 1200-1299 block, 12th St.; 9:46 a.m. Dec. 26.

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Theft from auto â– K and 6th streets; 3:35 a.m. Dec. 29. Theft â– 800-899 block, F St.; 8 p.m. Dec. 23. â– 700-799 block, 7th St.; 3:17 p.m. Dec. 26. â– 700-799 block, 7th St.; 4:16 p.m. Dec. 27. â– 700-799 block, H St.; 12:50 a.m. Dec. 28. â– 7th and H streets; 4:25 p.m. Dec. 29. â– 800-899 block, 7th St.; 6:26 p.m. Dec. 29.

Assault with a dangerous weapon â– 900-1010 block, 24th St.; 7:42 a.m. Dec. 27. â– 1700-1799 block, I St.; 2:04 a.m. Dec. 28. Burglary â– 2100-2199 block, Pennsylvania Ave.; 9:30 a.m. Dec. 26. Theft from auto â– 1900-1999 block, M St.; 12:39 a.m. Dec. 23. â– 2100-2199 block, I St.; 9:41 a.m. Dec. 23. â– 2600-2699 block, L St.; 10:53 a.m. Dec. 27. Theft â– 1000-1099 block, Vermont Ave.; 5:41 p.m. Dec. 23. â– 1100-1129 block, Connecticut Ave.; 11:44 a.m. Dec. 24. â– I and 17th streets; 1:08 p.m. Dec. 24. â– 1000-1099 block, Connecticut Ave.; 3:13 p.m. Dec. 24. â– 600-699 block, 14th St.; 7:55 p.m. Dec. 24. â– 1400-1433 block, K St.; 4 p.m. Dec. 26. â– 1100-1199 block, 22nd St.; 3:23 p.m. Dec. 27. â– 1100-1199 block, 20th St.; 8:47 p.m. Dec. 27. â– 1718-1799 block, L St.; 4:57 p.m. Dec. 28. â– 1040-1099 block, Potomac St.; 8:09 p.m. Dec. 28. â– 1100-1199 block, Vermont Ave.; 5:40 a.m. Dec. 29. â– 1800-1899 block, L St.; 5:08 p.m. Dec. 29.

psa PSA 301 301

â– Dupont circle

Robbery â– 1400-1499 block, T St.; 12:30 a.m. Dec. 24 (with gun). â– 1500-1599 block, S St.; 9:45 p.m. Dec. 28. â– 1500-1599 block, S St.; 2:20 a.m. Dec. 29 (with gun). â– 1424-1499 block, R St.; 4:44 a.m. Dec. 29. Assault with a dangerous weapon â– 2000-2099 block, 14th St.; 4:06 a.m. Dec. 28 (with knife). Burglary â– 1700-1799 block, Willard St.; 11:17 p.m. Dec. 28. Theft from auto â– 1721-1799 block, 14th St.; 11:46 a.m. Dec. 23. â– 1400-1499 block, V St.; 12:47 p.m. Dec. 23. â– 1400-1499 block, Q St.; 10:42 a.m. Dec. 26. â– 831-999 block, Euclid St.; 3:25 p.m. Dec. 28. Theft â– 1600-1618 block, 17th St.; 11:45 a.m. Dec. 24.

â– forest hills / van ness PSA 203

psa 203

cleveland park

Motor vehicle theft â– 3104-3299 block, Highland Place; 9:04 a.m. Dec. 24. Theft from auto â– 3600-3699 block, Davenport St.; 5:10 a.m. Dec. 23.

psa 204

â– Massachusetts avenue

heights / cleveland park woodley park / Glover PSA 204 park / cathedral heights

Theft from auto â– 3800-3899 block, Woodley Road; 10:15 a.m. Dec. 27. â– 3400-3479 block, Idaho Ave.; 9:23 a.m. Dec. 29. Theft â– 3900-4099 block, Wisconsin

psa PSA 303 303

â– adams morgan

Theft from auto

The Current

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RESOLUTIONS: Local businesses offer assistance in the new year for myriad goals Organization Organizing an office, kitchen or a new abode for 2014 may seem like a manageable task, but it can be overwhelming for some people. Where to start and what kind of items to get are often the questions that loom over people. Motivation, too, can be a difficult barrier. That’s when Judy Tiger steps in. Through her business Just That Simple, the longtime D.C. resident provides home and office organizing services throughout the area. When people enlist Tiger’s services, she first assesses the space and determines what kind of guidance the person needs. “It’s a gigantic relief to get some help from a professional to kick-start momentum,â€? she said. “And reaching out for professional expertise does not mean that the person is hopeless or incapable ‌ . It could be a really smart move to get a little bit of help or to get some perspective or a plan in place.â€? For more information, call 202-726-8667 or visit just-that-simple.net. lead to a promotion. For 25 years, Hurley Write Inc. has been teaching professionals how to write effectively for a variety of industries. Focuses include technical reports, scientific manuscripts, clinical documentation and requests for proposals. Companies can sign up a group of employees for an onsite workshop-style class led by a member of founder Pam Hurley’s team. For convenience, online courses are also available. “It starts whenever you want to start,â€? said Hurley, a Glover Park resident. “They’re accessible 24/7. It’s very convenient.â€? Visit hurleywrite.com for more information.

new year,� said Jamison. “In January, it’s about self-identity and how we can work through meditation and contemplation to develop positive views of ourselves.� The center also starts the new year off with a three-day retreat for all levels. The retreat teaches attendees how to practice 21 different types of meditation in their daily routine, one for each day. “We have a Lamrin retreat — that’s Tibetan for ‘stages in the past,’� said Jamison. For more information, visit meditation-dc. org or call 202-986-2257.

Writing

Writing can be tough. But it’s an important communication skill, especially in the workplace. Effective writing skills can lead to winning contracts and proposals. They can even

WALLS: Students won’t relocate From Page 1 from closure. The idea was to consolidate staff and allocate some space at the under-enrolled FrancisStevens campus to Walls nearby. Some of the changes have taken place, including sharing the principal and other administrators between the two campuses, holding some high school events on N Street, and applying the Walls name to FrancisStevens. But the idea of high school classes at the second location is on hold until at least fall 2015. “The working group raised relevant challenges,� D.C. Public Schools official John Davis wrote in the letter. He said the system would continue to “study the enrollment situation and opportunities that arise,� committing only to keeping high school students out of FrancisStevens classrooms for the 20142015 academic year. “I’m obviously glad they decided to take a little more time and consider it carefully,� said Linwood Jolly, a high school parent and former Home and School Association president who was part of the working group. “Having students move across campuses? It would take 20 minutes. Our students don’t have 20 minutes.� Some parents simply believe the school needs time to figure out logistics. “I’m pretty open-minded about it,� said Chris Sondreal, a FrancisStevens parent who participated in the working group. “I personally would be very comfortable with high school students in the building.� But Terry Lynch, another high school parent, thinks the school system’s decision should be permanent. “It’s time to put this issue to bed,� he said. “It doesn’t make sense to have students in class so far away.� Lynch also said he is concerned about the sharing of administrators, another issue Davis addressed in his letter. Davis called this “an area of concern,� citing parents’ worries that shared leadership was failing to meet the needs of both campuses. “We obviously have further work to do in this area and look to change the dynamic in the coming months,� Davis wrote. “I think both sides have seen the shortcomings of having a part-time principal,� Lynch said. “I don’t know of any other blue-ribbon high school in the country that has a parttime principal.� Lynch said this concern is widespread among parents, though Jolly called it a secondary issue. “I’m not as concerned about that,� he said. “At least we’re not splitting up the high school.�

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Wednesday, January 1, 2014

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The Current

In Your Neighborhood ANC 1C ANCMorgan 1c Adams ■adams morgan The commission will meet at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8, at Mary’s Center, 2355 Ontario Road NW. Agenda items include: ■election of 2014 officers. ■commission business, including determination of meeting dates and committee assignments. ■announcements and public comments. ■discussion of “No Parking� signs on the 2100 block of 20th Street. ■discussion of development at 1835-37 Wyoming Ave. ■discussion of an aging-in-place initiative. For details, call 202-332-2630 or visit anc1c.org. ANC 2A ANC 2A Foggy Bottom doned home at 1442 T St. Commissioners found the project consistent with the historic character of the neighborhood. The commission will meet at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8, at the Brookings Institution, 1775 Massachusetts Ave. NW. For details, visit dupontcircleanc. net. ANC 2D ANC 2D Sheridan-Kalorama 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8, at the School of International Service Building, American University, Nebraska and New Mexico avenues NW. For details, call 202-363-4130 or visit anc3d.org. ANC 3E ANC 3E Tenleytown ■american university park American University friendship heights / Park tenleytown The commission has rescheduled its January meeting. It will be held at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15, at the Embassy Suites Hotel, Chevy Chase Pavilion, 5335 Wisconsin Ave. NW. For details, visit anc3e.org. ANC 3/4G ANC 3/4G Chevy Chase ■CHEVY CHASE At the commission’s Dec. 9 meeting: ■commissioners voted 5-1, with Carolyn Cook opposing and Gary Thompson absent, to approve a series of grant requests: Global Harmony, $450; Chevy Chase Citizens Association, $300; and Wilson Crew Boosters, $2,000. Commissioners deferred action on a grant application from the 2nd District Citizens Advisory Council because the organization doesn’t need the funds yet. ■a representative of Friendship Place requested a $2,000 grant to purchase underwear, shoes and SmarTrip cards for the homeless. The commission will vote on the application at its Jan. 13 meeting. ■representatives of Calvin Cafritz Enterprises presented revised plans for their apartment project at 5333 Connecticut Ave., which is now under construction. The changes reflect promises Cafritz had made under a memorandum of understanding signed with the commission, including a revised facade with less glass, a slightly reduced height and about 40 additional parking spaces. Cafritz representatives also discussed their plans to reduce light pollution from the building and to preserve trees during the construction process. Commissioners will discuss a public space application for a circular driveway off Connecticut Avenue at their Jan. 13 meeting, and they will continue to monitor the project for compliance with their memorandum of understanding. ■commissioners voted 6-0 to request daily monitoring of traffic control during construction of the apartment project at 5333 Connecticut Ave., in response to concerns from neighbors. The commission sent letters to the site construction manager, D.C. Department of Transportation and the Metropolitan Police Department. The commission will meet at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13, at the Chevy Chase Community Center, Connecticut Avenue and McKinley Street NW. For details, send an email to chevychaseanc3@verizon.net or call 202-363-5803.

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â– Foggy bottom / west end

The commission will meet at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15, in Room 212, Elliott School of International Affairs, George Washington University, 1957 E St. NW. For details, visit anc2a.org. ANC 2B ANCCircle 2B Dupont

â– dupont circle

The commission will meet at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13, at Our Lady Queen of the Americas Church, California Street and Phelps Place NW. Agenda items include: ■election of officers and consideration of administrative matters. ■government reports. ■update on the project at 2422 Tracy Place, the subject of a Jan. 9 hearing by the Mayor’s Agent for Historic Preservation on an afterthe-fact application for roof replacement. ■presentation by Sarah Robinson of the DC Sustainable Energy Utility. ■open forum. For details, visit anc2d.org or contact davidanc2d01@aol.com. ANC 2E ANC 2E Georgetown ■Georgetown / cloisters Cloisters burleith / hillandale The commission will meet at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 3, at Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School, 1524 35th St. NW. For details, call 202-724-7098 or visit anc2e.com. ANC 2F ANC 2F Logan Circle

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At the commission’s Dec. 11 meeting: ■commissioner Mike Feldstein congratulated Historic Dupont Circle Main Streets on its Christmas tree lighting event, which was held Dec. 7 in front of La Tomate restaurant at 1701 Connecticut Ave. ■commissioner Stephanie Maltz announced that the Ward 2 Education Network will hold a meeting Jan. 11 at 10 a.m. at Ross Elementary School, 1730 R St. The group will discuss Next Generation Science Standards. ■Foggy Bottom Association vice president Patrick Kennedy announced that his organization would co-sponsor a Feb. 25 mayoral candidates forum moderated by journalist Tom Sherwood. Commissioners voted 7-0, with Kevin O’Connor and Mike Silverstein absent, to co-sponsor the forum. ■commissioners voted 7-0 to support stipulated and full alcohol license applications for Mama I’s Pizza & Pasta at 1825 I St. ■commissioners voted 7-0 to support a liquor license application for Bub and Pop’s at 1815 M St. Their support came with the understanding that the establishment’s sidewalk cafe would close at 2 a.m. on weekdays and 3 a.m. on weekends. ■commissioners voted 7-1, with Abigail Nichols opposed and Kevin O’Connor absent, to oppose a Historic Preservation Review Board application for renovations of an 1880s residence at 1618 Q St. Commissioners also requested that the board delay action on this project for one month. ■commissioners voted 8-0, with Kevin O’Connor absent, to support a revitalization project for an aban-

â– logan circle

The commission will meet at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8, at the Washington Plaza Hotel, 10 Thomas Circle NW. For details, call 202-667-0052 or visit anc2f.org. ANC 3B ANC 3B Glover Park â– Glover Park / Cathedral heights The commission will meet at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9, at Stoddert Elementary School and Glover Park Community Center, 4001 Calvert St. NW. For details, call 202-338-2969 or visit anc3b.org. ANC 3C ANC 3C Cleveland Park â– cleveland park / woodley Park Woodley Park massachusetts avenue heights Massachusetts Avenue Heights Cathedral Heights The commission will meet at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 21, at the 2nd District Police Headquarters, 3320 Idaho Ave. NW. For details, visit anc3c.org. ANC 3D ANC 3D Spring Valley â– spring valley / wesley heights Wesley Heights palisades / kent / foxhall The commission will meet at

The Current Wednesday, January 1, 2014

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From Page 1

STAFFING: Fire and EMS Department says schedule change will solve long-standing issues Public Employee Relations Board, and the next step would be appealing to the D.C. Superior Court. He said a separate arbitrator’s ruling addressing this issue and others should come in February, although it will be non-binding. FEMS spokesperson Jackson said no changes are about to take effect: “At the moment, there’s no immediate timetable to change from the current shift from 3-3-3 shift.â€? “Chief Ellerbe wants to make sure if and when the change occurs, everyone will be aware with it and be on board with it, from ‌ the mayor to the [D.C.] Council,â€? Jackson said, adding that the switch would take considerable time to implement. “We’re talking about 1,700 employees ‌ and altering how they are accustomed to come to work.â€? Ellerbe, in response to various concerns from the inspector general’s report, wrote in a letter that the new work schedule will allow his agency to “fill every vacant seat, reduce overtime, and meet the needs of the city without creating an undue financial burden on taxpayers.â€? The inspector general’s report expresses concerns about the uncertain timeline for that change, and staffing shortages during the transition. One finding was that FEMS, as of July 2013, had 1,707 filled positions in its Operation Division — less than the 1,768 the agency itself had determined to be essential for adequate coverage. The report also found problems such as significant overspending on overtime pay — exceeding budget projections by more than $3 million in the last two fiscal years, even after media scrutiny over the issue in 2010 and a subsequent D.C. Council bill setting restrictions. The full report is available online at tinyurl.com/FEMS-PDF.

staffing would be available for New Year’s Eve.� The inspector general’s inquiry was launched in the aftermath of problems during last year’s holidays, including delayed responses to a cardiac arrest patient (who ultimately died), a shooting victim and a stabbing victim. Staffing shortages caused FEMS to take more than onethird of its transport units out of service last New Year’s Eve. But along with that specific issue, the report examines broader management problems within the department, including “significantly deficient� staffing, excessive reliance on overtime and lack of analysis on resignations. Edward Smith, president of the District of Columbia Fire Fighters Association Local 36, said he was happy to see the report come out, even if he doesn’t understand “why it took a year to get done.� “After everything that happened last year, I wanted the report done,� Smith said. “A lot was leveled against the firefighters on New Year’s Eve, [so] we were vindicated on that report.� Following last year’s holiday shortages — which some say contributed to the death of a 71-year-old man in Southeast D.C. — concerns arose that an organized “sick-out� was to blame. Although FEMS Chief Keith Ellerbe has agreed to comply with the vast majority of the inspector general’s recommendations for improvements, many of the proposed solutions hinge upon a new work schedule that remains under contention. While paramedic firefighters currently work 24-hour shifts, with three days off in between, Ellerbe has proposed moving toward a “3-33� schedule: three 12-hour day shifts followed by three 12-hour night shifts, and then three days off. Last week a city board concluded that the details of this new schedule weren’t subject to collective bargaining agreements. The city’s Public Employee Relations Board ruled that “hours of work, schedule and leave� could be determined by FEMS management, rather than through union negotiation — rejecting a recent appeal by the local firefighters’ union. The union has argued that the new schedule would strain workers and therefore threaten public safety. “There’s various problems, we believe, both for the citizens and firefighters,� said Smith. “Basically you would have fewer firefighters working longer hours,� with the “hard shift from days to nights� resulting in sleep deprivation. He added that the change would only hurt the agency’s existing problems with recruiting and retaining firefighter paramedics. “It’s already difficult now, but it will be next to impossible [with the shift].� Smith said the union has filed a motion of reconsideration with the

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Wednesday, January 1, 2014

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Current

The Dupont

New year? No problem … Whatever. The Marist Poll says “whatever” was ranked as the most annoying word or phrase for 2013. And it’s been the worst word for five years in a row. Now, the Marist Poll is the pride of Poughkeepsie, N.Y., and it enjoys a fine reputation. But we would argue that the worst word/phrase has been and continues to be the flippant response “no problem” that one hears in almost any encounter any day. But “no problem” didn’t even make the list. The poll showed 38 percent placed “whatever” at the top as their most annoying. Another 22 percent cited runner-up “like.” “You know” was third at 18 percent. “Just sayin’” irritated 14 percent. And last, with 6 percent, came “obviously.” The poll said 2 percent of the respondents were unsure of any annoying word or phrase. No problem — we’ve got a whole new year to get rankled again. ■ Quit or paused? Here’s our grumpy take on the common practice of making New Year’s resolutions. Another Marist Poll says 44 percent of Americans have made or are making resolutions for 2014. Of those, 8 percent say they’ll stop smoking. It’s been the Notebook’s experience that friends, co-workers and acquaintances who say they’ve “quit” smoking actually have only “paused,” doomed to take it up again over and over. Smoking certainly is a difficult habit to break. Our best wishes to those who truly make it to the “quit” stage and stay there. Maybe we can distract you from smoking with a few more humbling numbers. Only 12 percent said they intended to spend less and save more. Another 12 percent said they would exercise more. Still another 12 percent said they would seek to be a “better person.” And 11 percent said they would try to lose weight (we guess this one overlaps a little with exercising more, but the poll doesn’t say). Add it all up and it leads to another tried-and-true saying: Hope springs eternal. ■ Good luck. The big news from nearby Prince George’s County in 2013 was easy. MGM was formally picked to build a five-football-field-long casino at National Harbor. Duh. Ever since National Harbor was conceived, people have thought it was destined to eventually house legal gambling to feed off of the nation’s capital and flourishing Northern Virginia. No elected official anywhere in Virginia has ever seriously proposed state table games or slots gambling. Creation of the Virginia lottery was a defensive move to retain gambling cash. But in the District, city officials long ago proposed a downtown D.C. casino. In 1993, 20 years ago, then-Mayor Sharon Pratt foresaw the national casino boom and suggested that the city’s prematurely aging convention center be turned into an upscale casino. City officials even visited New Orleans to check out a casino being built there. “We’re looking at it in a very serious manner,” said George Brown, the then-assistant city administrator for economic development. “We’re going to do the appropriate study and see if it makes sense for us.” The idea went nowhere, of course. What about now? No city official has caught gambling fever. On WAMU 88.5’s Politics Hour recently, at-large D.C. Council member David Catania turned up his nose at the idea. “Absolutely not,” he said quickly. “Under no condition would I support a casino in the District of Columbia, especially with the way in which our government’s presently organized.” He went on to explain that the 13-member council and rest of the city government are too tempted toward wrongdoing. He said of the council, “you can get seven people to do just about anything.” A casino in D.C.? Don’t bet on it. At minimum, the conservative members of Congress from Virginia would oppose it and the Maryland money-grubbing delegation would fight tooth-and-nail to keep out a competitor in the nation’s capital. ■ Quote of the year. Unless something extraordinary was said in the last couple of days (after our deadline), the Notebook’s local quote of 2013 goes to U.S. Attorney Ronald Machen and his “there’s there there” comment. In an interview with us in late November at the Hill Center on Capitol Hill, Machen was responding to criticism that his probe of Mayor Vincent Gray’s 2010 campaign was taking too long. The normally taciturn prosecutor responded: “You’ve got four people associated with a mayoral campaign who have pled guilty to felonies,” he said. “It’s not like we’ve been looking at this for three years and there’s no there there. I mean, there’s there there, and we’re trying to gather information, we’re trying to get documents and we’re trying to talk to people.” So there. Happy New Year one and all, no matter where your “there there” leads you. Tom Sherwood, a Southwest resident, is a political reporter for News 4. some light on this topic, DDOT! Lena Heron Chevy Chase

Davis Kennedy/Publisher & Editor Chris Kain/Managing Editor

The time is now

TOM SHERWOOD’s

When the D.C. Council decided in October to delay until 2018 the city’s first election for attorney general, some members cited as a major reason the lack of clarity in what the job would entail: Would the new top lawyer be a representative of primarily the mayor or the citizens? Without that thorny issue decided, they argued, it would be inappropriate to move forward with an election. So now that the question of responsibility has been resolved — in a November council vote establishing a separate Mayor’s Office of Legal Counsel to advise the mayor and govern his agency lawyers — we think it’s time to schedule a vote. The decision to shift from a mayorally appointed to an elected attorney general was decided by citizen vote in a 2010 referendum, and 2014 was the year set for the election in that decision. Thus we’re pleased that Ward 3 Council member Mary Cheh has proposed November 2014 for the election. The division of responsibilities approved by the council has drawn opposition from some, including the nonprofit DC Appleseed, which has been backing the shift to an elected attorney general. Appleseed director Walter Smith says part of the intent of the referendum was to make city lawyers responsible to the people, rather than the mayor. We think the council made the right decision. It’s inadvisable for agencies under the mayor’s control to be receiving their legal advice from attorneys working for another elected official — potentially a mayoral rival. In our view, that does not foster an appropriate separation of powers or provide a needed check on mayoral authority; rather, it sets up unnecessary conflict and confusion. Regardless of one’s position on the attorney general’s duties, however, the key now is that the council has decided the matter — eroding the key rationale for the anti-democratic step of postponing an election. And there can be no doubt there: The council should reverse its inappropriate earlier 8-5 decision to delay, and grant the people’s wishes to vote this year. Council member Cheh says she should be able to move the election bill by February, allowing enough time to get candidates registered for the November polling. But that would not be enough time for a spring primary, and so the council member has proposed solely a general election, in which candidates self-identify their political parties. This seems like an appropriate move, since the position needn’t be connected to party politics. She also smartly seeks to lift the ban on city employees running for the position, which will hopefully lead to a larger pool of qualified candidates.

Notebook

Franklin’s future

We’re looking forward to the city’s decision — expected this month — among four competing proposals to redevelop the historic Franklin School building downtown. The beautiful 1869 building has been unutilized for far too long, and any of the options would be better than the status quo. The Logan Circle advisory neighborhood commission has backed two of the schemes: a contemporary art gallery with a José Andrés restaurant, and a boutique hotel with a grand ballroom and two dining areas. The other two plans would offer space for tech companies. We tend to agree with the neighborhood commissioners — who didn’t oppose any of the plans, simply stating a preference for two — that art and hospitality would best revitalize the facility. Matt Connolly, whose singlemember district includes the Franklin School, has been working closely with the city during the bidding process, and he prefers the art gallery proposal. “It provides the most public access,” said Mr. Connolly. “It comes the closest to preserving the historic foundation of the school.” Designed by prominent Washington architect Adolf Cluss, Franklin opened in 1869 as a 14-classroom school — part of a modern movement to upgrade public education facilities and to separate students by age. “The building’s 19th-century façade — including a bust of Benjamin Franklin — is an eloquent expression of the principles and importance of public education in a democracy in post-Civil War America,” reads a brief history on the city’s redevelopment website. “The exterior of Franklin was restored in 1992 and is on the National Register of Historic Places and has been designated as a National Historic Landmark. The interior, one of only thirteen DC buildings given interior landmark protection, remains largely the way it was when the building was closed decades ago.” It’s time to reopen this downtown treasure. We hope to see a decision from city officials soon.

Letters to the Editor District’s LED plans need further review I am concerned about the D.C. Department of Transportation’s recently announced contract (reported in a brief item in The Current’s Dec. 18 issue) with Citelum to replace 71,000 streetlights with LEDs that would reduce spending on energy and maintenance. I am surprised that such a large contract for something that could impact us all so directly would be awarded without any public review. What will these new lights look like? How bright will they be? Will they be shielded to keep light from shining into homes?

What part of the light spectrum will they be? There is increasing empirical evidence that the light spectrum used by LEDs has negative impacts on wildlife and human health. Already, over the last few years, we have seen dramatic increase in light pollution in our area with the proliferation of “historic” globes. While it is laudable for D.C. to attempt to reduce spending on energy and maintenance, it should do so in a way that is consistent with its own (admirable) goal of reducing light pollution. The few LED alley lights that have already been installed in my Chevy Chase neighborhood to me appear garish and shockingly bright, in some cases like spotlights into houses. Will this contract be a boon, or a boondoggle? Let’s shed

Day of service work spruced up facility

As part of the Washington DC Jewish Community Center’s Day of Service on Christmas Day, I volunteered at Mary’s Center, which helps people in need. My family and I helped paint the bathroom there bright orange. The color is very welcoming and can make people who are not so happy, maybe because of poverty or sickness, feel happy and upbeat. The organization not only assists people to get back on their feet, but also helps people feel at home while being cared for. Danielle Breslow Eighth-grader, Deal Middle School

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Is Safeway listening to the community? VieWPoiNt

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W. PhiLiP ThOmas anD sPEnCE sPEnCEr s the new year arrives, so will a new proposal from Safeway to expand its store on MacArthur Boulevard. Safeway has proposed tripling the size of the current store, adding 100 condominium units on top and digging out two levels of underground parking. As currently proposed, the resulting structure, built from sidewalk to sidewalk, would look like a large cube standing more than 60 feet high. It would dwarf the surrounding area. The concerns in our community are palpable. Safeway is proposing a project that is not only deeply conflicts with the scale and character of our MacArthur Boulevard, but will have significant negative impacts on traffic, our schools and access to services. The current proposal’s lack of adequate parking will cause further dislocation and carry the impact of the project onto the side streets. A single entrance on U Street for the complex will have severe drawbacks for the Our Lady of Victory Church and surrounding neighbors. Possibly as a response to the Palisades’ strong reaction, Safeway initiated an “outreach and research” effort in October. Safeway has appeared before the advisory neighborhood commission, sent mailers to neighborhood residents, hosted an open house and made presentations to the Palisades Citizens Association. Safeway and its development partner Duball LLC have indicated that they hope to present a revised, more detailed proposal for the site after New Year’s to the Palisades Citizens Association membership that will incorporate the feedback they have received on their plan. Once this latest version is unveiled, the community will have the opportunity to provide a formal round of feedback. We understand that Safeway and Duball have their own agendas for the MacArthur site. Safeway has been a part of the Palisades since 1942, and no one begrudges its right to “thrive” in the Palisades. But these agendas should complement the unique qualities of the Palisades, which make it a much different project than, say, a store remodel in Petworth or Bethesda. Safeway has conceded that 100 condos is hard to swallow for the community, and cannot be built in conformity with the D.C. zoning code. Instead, they have

told us that they intend to apply for a planned-unit development designation from the Zoning Commission. The goal of planned-unit developments is to permit zoning flexibility, provided that the project offers “a commendable number or quality of public benefits and that it protects and advances public health, safety, welfare and convenience,” in consultation with the community. A planned-unit development must also be “not inconsistent” with the D.C. Comprehensive Plan, which provides overall guidance for it is clearly in safeway’s future planning interests to take account and development of the city. of community concerns The plan clearly states “future and fully weigh all the development … must be carefulpros and cons of a new ly managed to proposal. address infrastructure constraints and protect and enhance the existing scale, function, and character” of the city’s neighborhoods. It is clearly in Safeway’s interests to take account of community concerns and fully weigh all the pros and cons of a new proposal. Right now, Safeway’s main priorities should include working with the community more, incorporating community concerns and trying to be a good neighbor. Meanwhile, the Palisades Citizens Association has formed a task force composed of local neighbors, businesses, schools and churches that can be a responsive partner to Safeway and careful steward of the scale, function and character of our community. Safeway’s outreach efforts are much appreciated, but is the company really listening? Safeway has sometimes painted the choice for the Palisades as “whether or not the community wants Safeway to stay,” since company officials claim that the store is not profitable enough in its current configuration, and that the high density as proposed is the only way to finance expansion. Many in the Palisades want Safeway to stay, but the question is — at what price? We will know soon. W. Philip Thomas is a member of the Palisades advisory neighborhood commission, and Spence Spencer is chair of the Palisades Citizens Association’s task force on the Safeway project. allowing residents to create their own content and air it on DCTV channels that reach more than 370,000 viewers daily. This access empowers people to learn new skills while expressing their own views. DCTV and many others throughout the country — there are more than 3,000 public, educational and government access television stations across America — lead the way in promoting access to technology and education. Even amid the significant commercial broadcast landscape, public access television remains a community institution that can be trusted to hold onto the democratic ideals of free speech and the entertainment value of pure creativity. Public access television puts the public back into television. Tonya Gonzalez Vice President of Public Affairs, Public Access Corp. of DC (DCTV)

Letters to the editor Public access shows bolster free speech Many wildly successful shows — ranging from “Mad Men” and “Breaking Bad” to “Orange Is the New Black” and “Game of Thrones” — have emerged within the past few years. But there’s another, more equalizing alternative: public access television. Free of censorship and editorial control, public access television’s model champions the principle behind the most creative and inventive television shows today — freedom of speech, which yields the freedom to create without inhibition. Public access television is civic media, plain and simple. Its real importance lies in its ability to

allow all voices to be heard, and it provides an outlet for often-marginalized individuals and communities. Funded through legislation that requires cable corporations to pay a portion of their net subscriber rates back to jurisdictions in which they do business, public access television provides resources and equipment to individuals interested in producing television content. Historically, it was created in the early 1970s as a method of providing access to broadcast for citizens, governments and educational institutions. The first public access networks appeared in Virginia and Wisconsin. The Public Access Corp. of D.C. (known as DCTV) was a pioneer, formed in 1988 as a public access station. For 25 years, it has offered people in the D.C. metropolitan area video production training and access to equipment,

Letters to the editor The Current publishes letters and Viewpoint submissions representing various points of view. Because of space limitations, letters should be no more than 400 words and are subject to editing. Letters and Viewpoint submissions intended for publication should be addressed to Letters to the Editor, The Current, Post Office Box 40400, Washington, D.C. 20016-0400. You may send email to letters@currentnewspapers.com.

10 Wednesday, January 1, 2014

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Spotlight on Schools British School of Washington This term, all the members of Year 8 have been thinking about the IMYC (International Middle Years Curriculum) Big Idea: “When information is shared accurately and clearly, the end result is more effective.� Over two days, we made a film that showed our understanding of this “Big Idea.� As we worked on the film, our group had to make sure to show that we understood the information being presented. Some of the teachers involved in marking our final pieces hadn’t had the chance to see the Big Idea, so we had to make them understand it. Some of the ideas we presented in the film included the need to overcome prejudice, and that communication can bring people of different views together. As we have worked on this project, members of the group have added ideas and suggestions to improve the final outcomes, such as adding text that helps explain our view of the Big Idea. Developing our films took lots of thought. As a class we collaborated together and figured out costumes, props, story and message to give an effective result. Once the films have been fully edited, our goal is to present them for the public to see. — Nina Learner, Year 8 Houston (seventh-grader)

School disPAtChes bly once a week in December. The Christmas vigil was extra special this year because Cardinal Theodore McCarrick was there to celebrate with us. He was the archbishop of Washington from 2001 to 2006. He talked a little bit about his life and what Christmas means. The roles in the play were the different kinds of people during the birth of Jesus. There was Mary, Joseph, shepherds, angels, the wise men, the angel Gabriel, innkeepers, a star and a guardian angel. The third-grade girls were angels and the third-grade boys were shepherds. Baby Jesus was a baby doll. The kids wore costumes for their characters and the church was beautifully decorated. There were so many people there that people needed to squeeze into the pews. We started the Christmas vigil by singing “O Come, All Ye Faithful� and ended with “Joy to the World.� What a nice way to start off Christmas Eve! — Scarlett Kiss, third-grader

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Every year the Our Lady of Victory School and Church have a Christmas Eve vigil. It is very popular because the kids put on a play based on the birth of Jesus. The principal and vice principal of the school took the students who signed up for the play to church to practice. The practices were proba-

St. Ann’s Academy

Our third-grade class has been working hard. In math, we are learning about fractions and how to write them correctly. We know that the numerator is the top half and the denomi-

nator is the bottom half. In cursive, we are learning uppercase letters now and have practiced A, C, E and O so far. In social studies, we are learning about a community’s environment and its location. We discussed how the climate affects the way people dress and build their homes in different places. In religion, we talked about Advent and the coming of Christ. We discussed the Jesse Tree and how many people came before Jesus to prepare for His birth. We also made our own tree that showed the names of people that prepared us to know Christ. In science, we are studying competition and adaptations in living things. Animals really have some neat ways of protecting themselves and getting food. In reading/writing, we are working on our biographies for our wax museum characters. We have done research in the computer lab and used our book sources, too. We wrote rough drafts, completed the proofreading stage and are ready to type the final drafts. Finally, we are preparing for our class party on Thursday. We are all in charge of something, and I’m responsible for the plates. Christmas break is on the way and we are so excited. Merry Christmas and happy New Year! — Arianna Winfield, third-grader

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12 Wednesday, January 1, 2014

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‘Georgetown 2028’ nets community support By GRAHAM VYSE Current Staff Writer

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An ambitious 15-year plan to strengthen Georgetown’s business district has won the backing of two key neighborhood organizations. In the final weeks of 2013, the Georgetown advisory neighborhood commission and the Citizens Association of Georgetown both threw support behind “Georgetown 2028,� a proposal from the Georgetown Business Improvement District. This report — which the two organizations helped draft — advocates large-scale improvements to Georgetown’s transportation and public space. Among its specific initiatives, the plan calls for the creation of a neighborhood Metro station, a revitalized waterfront along the Potomac River, a pedestrian and bicycle bridge to Theodore Roosevelt Island, and aerial gondolas that would carry 4,000 visitors — and potential customers — across the water from Arlington, Va., every hour. “ANC 2E is pleased to add its voice to those of others in our community in support of the broad scope and creative thinking embodied in the plan,� the neighborhood commission wrote in its resolution. “We applaud the BID and all who have participated for the inclusiveness and productivity of that process.� In its own resolution, the citizens association acknowledged the formidable task of accomplishing the proposal’s goals, but sounded an

optimistic note: “Recognizing that all significant improvements contemplated by the report will proceed through the ordinary regulatory approval process, CAG strongly endorses the overall objectives.� “Georgetown 2028� is the product of a year’s worth of community meetings, focus groups and online surveys convened by the Georgetown Business Improvement District. In addition to the neighborhood commission and the citizens association, the group involved key stakeholders such as the National Park Service, the D.C. government and many individual Georgetown businesses. At a December press briefing on the plan, business improvement district CEO Joe Sternlieb said transportation is the biggest problem facing Georgetown commerce. “We are accessibility-challenged,� he said. Sternlieb outlined proposed fixes, starting with an accelerated timeline for construction of a Georgetown Metro station. He said the project ought to be completed by 2028, not 2040, as currently planned by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority. Although many ideas in Sternlieb’s presentation seemed fairly straightforward — traffic-calming measures, temporary sidewalk extensions, additional streetcars — several were strikingly unusual. For example, the proposal for aerial gondolas was inspired by systems in Portland, Ore., and several interna-

tional cities, including London. “Can you imagine a four-minute trip in the air with these spectacular views? It’s pretty amazing,� Sternlieb said. “We’ll be starting a feasibility study in the new year.� Asked about funding for this and other components of the plan, Sternlieb said it would come from private investment, public-private partnerships and the business improvement district’s own resources. “Some of the ideas are huge, $100 million ideas. Other ideas cost absolutely nothing,� he said. Sternlieb pledged to provide specifics about costs by February, but added: “We don’t have any decent ability to estimate yet.� Regardless of the price tag, he said he believes residents will see the value of projects that would benefit D.C. as a whole. “We think Georgetown is one of the assets that brings people to Washington,� he said. “When people come to Washington, they think about going to the Lincoln Memorial, they think about going to the Capitol, and they think about coming to Georgetown.� Of course, Sternlieb joked, many tourists are probably headed to a specific destination: Georgetown Cupcake. “We’re the cupcake capital of the planet,� he said with a laugh. “And that’s a good thing.� To read the full “Georgetown 2028� plan — including proposals related to economic development, historic preservation and public space — visit georgetowndc.com.

GARDEN: Drainage work planned for Kalorama Park From Page 1 this gave members a call to action. “In order to plant that garden, we had to solve a problem that hadn’t been solved before,â€? said Kathryn Kross, the group’s president. “The garden part ended up combining with this bigger project.â€? As a result, the city is now working on a bundle of improvements to the three-acre park. The short-term measures, totaling $36,000 and now largely in place, include rerouting runoff to green space, resizing gutters and downspouts at the recreation center building, and clearing out an existing trench drain, according to D.C. Department of General Services spokesperson Darrell Pressley. The project — a partnership between the General Services Department and the Department of Parks and Recreation — will also remove and replace “improper soil,â€? Pressley said. The city has dedicated $50,000 toward planning that work. These fixes have been long in the making. According to Kross, erosion and runoff have been problems for decades, and the city’s first effort at improvements, starting in 2007, “by all accounts ‌ went off the rails. It took three or four years, and somehow good soil was taken out of the park and bad soil was put in.â€? So in 2012 the city began to reassess. When the Fund for Kalorama Park started working on the garden a year later, “there was a wonderful convergence,â€? Kross said. The fund — which Kross herself helped create in the 1990s, only to rejoin this year as president — brought in the Anacostia Watershed Society, landscape designers and the D.C. Department of the Environment to look at the problems and propose solutions. And neighbors pitched in through hands-on data collection, like running out “in blinding rainstorms, documenting runoff,â€? Kross

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The Level Green Landscaping Co. helped install the new garden at Kalorama Park.

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said. The city ultimately agreed to fix the documented problems, as well as to install the garden, Kross said. The garden itself came to life over a weekend’s time, with more than 300 plants and 650 bulbs going into the ground, according to designer Seiffert. In selecting the plants, Seiffert prioritized durability and year-round seasonal blooms. She also kept true to the park’s Victorian roots with “a flowing, organic arrangement that harks back to that time,� she said. For the future, the Fund for Kalorama Park wants to see gardens at all four entrances, Kross said. This first one will be a pilot, with neighbors working in teams to coordinate maintenance, she said. If the group proves successful at “bringing serious manpower to specific sections of the park,� Kross said, it could move on to more ambitious plans and fundraising.

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Spotlight on Community Living Wednesday, January 1, 2014 Serving D.C. residents who are age 18+ with a disability or age 60+ and their caregivers Vol 2, No 3

District of columbia office on aging news

Executive Director’s Message John M. Thompson, Ph.D., FAAMA, D.C. Office on Aging as this issue of the Spotlight on Community Living is the first edition for 2014, i would like to talk about health and wellness. these topics are always relevant regardless if you are an individual who will be turning 60 years of age this year or a seasoned senior. by focusing on these measures now, we can help ourselves to remain physically active for many years. according to the centers for Disease control and Prevention 2010 data, there were approximately 2.3 million nonfatal fall injuries among older adults treated in emergency departments and more than 662,000 of these patients were hospitalized due to hip fractures, lacerations, and head traumas or even admitted to nursing homes. the total direct medical costs associated with these falls were $30.4 billion. as you can imagine, seniors who have suffered these kinds of injuries find it difficult to be independent and may increase the risk of early death. in extreme cases, 21,700 seniors died from unintentional fall injuries in 2010. beyond the fact that seniors are prone to fall injuries, some seniors live with different types of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, and arthritis. according to the centers for Disease control and Prevention, 7 out of 10 deaths annually among americans are linked to chronic diseases. about 25% of people with chronic conditions have limitations with one or more activities of daily living (aDl). arthritis is the most common cause of disability, impacting nearly 19 million americans who report that they have issues with performing some aDls. Diabetes can also adversely impact aDls when individuals receive non-traumatic lower-extremity amputations and blindness. although i have shared some staggering data with you, seniors and future seniors can take control of their lives to prevent falls and prevent or alleviate ailments associated with a number of chronic diseases. seniors can access free wellness programs at any of the District of columbia office on aging’s senior wellness centers, which are located in wards 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8. at these senior wellness centers, you can engage in tai chi classes to improve balance and take part in strength training classes to build leg strength to prevent falls. you can exercise on the treadmill and the elliptical machine and take aerobics classes to prevent or alleviate the ailments associated with cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, osteoporosis, and stroke. moreover, aerobic exercises strengthen your immune system, which means that you will be healthy, active, and productive rather than being sick at home. lastly, aerobic exercise strengthens your heart and your body’s ability to supply oxygen throughout your body, which helps it to function properly, while burning calories and reducing body fat. for those who frequently come to our senior wellness centers, we welcome you back in 2014! if you are a District senior age 60 and older and have not been to one of our senior wellness centers, we welcome you to get started this week by visiting any of our six locations! Please contact the District of columbia office on aging at 202-724-5626 to get the address and phone number of the senior wellness center near you. ~

Happy New Year! start off the year by adopting a healthier lifestyle! attend one of six wellness centers citywide designed for persons age 60 and older. Participation is free for District residents age 60 and older. Bernice Fonteneau Senior Wellness Center Ward 3531 georgia avenue, nw 202-727-0338 Hattie Holmes Senior Wellness Center 324 Kennedy street, nw 202-291-6170 Model Cities Senior Wellness Center 1901 evarts street, ne 202-635-1900 Hayes Senior Wellness Center 500 K street, ne 202-727-0357 Washington Seniors Wellness Center 3001 alabama avenue, se 202-581-9355 Congress Heights Senior Wellness Center 3500 martin luther King Jr., avenue, se 202-563-7225 the boDywise Program also promotes health, wellness and fitness for persons 60 years of age or older in the District of columbia. some of the benefits which may be achieved include: an increase in participant’s cardiovascular efficiency, muscular strength, flexibility, and overall life satisfaction. a key component of the program is to promote health, wellness, and prevention knowledge. call 202-2746651 for more information. ~

Centenarian reCeiveS MayoraL award for ServiCe mayor gray recently presented 104 year old Virginia McLaurin with the national service award during the mayor’s community service awards. the awards are presented annually to District residents making a notable impact through volunteerism and service. grandma mclaurin as she is known, long time resident of the District was aware of the challenges the city faced when meeting the academic needs of students with severe special educational needs and disabilities. in 1994 because she lives near c. melvin sharpe health school, she decided to volunteer to make a difference in the lives of the mentally and physically disabled children attending the school by working along side the teaching staff and administration as a united Planning organization (uPo) foster grandparent. she has volunteered an average of 40 hours per week for the past 19 years. grandma helps these special children acquire and develop social skills, basic skills in speech, reading, writing and math. grandma believes that “love” conquers all she

said “i love everybody.” after the ceremony while waiting for her ride with cheryl christmas, program manager for the foster grandparent Program she was discussing upcoming calendar events. when christmas was trying to recall one of them, grandma mclaurin quickly chimed in

to correct her. the centenarian is still an active part of her own activities and schedule, but definitely committed to the children she serves. at age 104, grandma mclaurin continues to walk the two blocks from her home to the school without assistance. her presence as a volunteer inspires everyone to work beyond the aches and pains of age, to dance in the face of setbacks and loss, and to give love freely to all. foster grandparent mclaurin is a shining example of the commitment to service and humanity that is the essence of volunteerism. ~

gov e rnment o f t he Di s t r i c t o f co l umb i a — vi nc en t c. g r ay, may o r

14 Wednesday, January 1, 2014 Wednesday, January 1, 2014

The CurrenT Serving D.C. residents who are age 18+ with a disability or age 60+ and their caregivers Vol 2, No 3

COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR JANUARY 7th • 12 Pm Dc caregivers chat online at noon the Dc caregivers online chat at noon is designed to provide resources, tips and other information to assist persons caring for older adults informally. if you miss the noon chat, go back to the site and hit replay to view the conversation. for more information, contact linda.irizarry@dc.gov or 202-5351442. receive valuable information on Dcoa programs and services, receive health screenings and resources to keep you safe. for more information, call alice thompson at 202-535-1321.

Be PrePared for winter eMerGenCieS now is the time to prepare for possible winter emergencies. once you learn of a cold or winter weather alert, such as a winter storm watch or winter storm warning, listen to the broadcast media about the weather conditions. seniors are urged to follow certain protective measures including stay inside, stay in warm places, wear several layers of dry clothing, wear a wind protective outer layer, reschedule appointments if possible, store canned foods during the year to help when there are periods you cannot venture out for 24hours or more, keeping prescription drugs filled timely. visit www. 72hours. dc.gov or www.snow.dc. gov for more important information. here are important phone numbers that also may be helpful in cold weather emergencies. ~

20th • 10 am – 2 pm

9th • 10 am – 12 pm

Dcoa and the office of unified communications will present smart911 to residents of fort lincoln. the presentation will be held at 2855 fort lincoln Drive, ne. residents will have an opportunity to sign-up for the safety profile designed to give first responders important information on homes and their occupants when contacted for emergency assistance. residents will also find out more information on programs and services available to assist them. for more information, contact darlene. nowlin@dc.gov or call 202-727-8364.

Dcoa executive Director John m. thompson, Ph.D., faama will discuss the affordable care act & host a community health and informational fair at bethesda baptist church, 1808 capitol avenue, ne. contact shirley mitchell 301-318-2990 for more information.

17th • 2 pm

seabury resources for aging ward 5 will hold its holiday open house at 2900 newton st. ne. for reservations, call vivian grayton at 202-529-8701.

18th • 1 to 3 pm

attend a Dcoa sponsored community health and wellness fair at st. mary’s court apartments, 725 24th st. nw. for more information, call 202-223-5712.

19th • 10 am to 2 pm

11th & 12th • 9 am – 5 pm

Dcoa will have a booth a the nbc4 * 2014 health & fitness expo, walter e. washington convention center, halls b& c, booth 1541, 801 mt. vernon Place, nw. Join us for this great annual event health and fitness demonstrations, resources, free giveaways and more. event phone number for details is 202-249-3600.

Dcoa will hold a community health and wellness fair model cities senior wellness center. model cities is located at 1901 evarts st. ne. for more information, call 202-635-1900.

21st • 12 pm

16th • 10 am – 2 pm

Dcoa will present a community health and informational fair at holy temple of christ church, 439 12th street, ne. come out and

the Dc caregivers online chat at noon is designed to provide resources, tips and other information to assist persons caring for older adults informally. if you miss the noon chat, go back to the site and hit replay to view the conversation. for more information, contact linda.irizarry@dc.gov or 202-535-1442.

CitiZen Snow teaM voLUnteerS needed serve Dc the mayor’s office on volunteerism is seeking volunteers from across the District to join the 2013-2014 citizen snow team that will clear sidewalks of elderly and disabled residents after it snows. the District requires property owners (residential and commercial) to clear the sidewalks surrounding their property within 24-hours after a snowfall. even a dusting of snow can be too much for elderly or disabled residents to shovel. volunteers are needed to make winter a little easier on everyone. Persons interested in volunteering their time to help those in need can register by calling 202-727-8421 or visit www.serve.dc.gov. ~

SeniorS CeLeBrate HoLiday at annUaL event more than 3200 seniors enjoyed the mayor’s annual senior holiday celebration held at the Dc armory. D.c. office on aging executive Director John m. thompson introduced mayor vincent c. gray who greeted the seniors and spoke of the great things the District was doing to improve transportation for seniors increasing the budget to serve more seniors, increase the number of life support and medical transportation trips and recreational trips for senior citizens. the event was held under the theme, Live, Work and Play: An AgeFriendly Holiday Celebration. the exhibit area included many government and community based resources that provided information, immunizations and health screenings, free facials, manicures, massages, giveaways and much more. a festive holiday meal was served by volunteers from the armed forces, PePco and the Jr rotc. the mc for the event was robert “captain fly” frye host on WPFW 89.3 FM and WYCB’s Senior Zone. the featured performer for the event was local r&b group halo. other performers included captain fly and friends for the holiday including The Philly Sound. senior performers for the event included the mc steppers performing “rhythm nation,” and the tr/crest soulinesters performed a dance to “Jazzy lady.” senior participants from vida senior center sang feliz navidad and the aPi senior center silver singers who sang a holiday medley of songs in chinese, mandarin and in english. seniors also received a workout from hayes senior wellness center fitness coordinator william yates that included dance movement and yoga. many of the attendees stayed on the dance floor hand dancing, performing line dances like the “wobble” and just enjoying the music that was provided. Known as the District’s largest holiday event held for seniors, the event is hosted annually by the D.c. office on aging and its senior service network. in its 16th year the free event brings seniors from across the city to celebrate the season. this year the event was rescheduled because of inclement weather forecast for the area in early December. ~

SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY LIVING Spotlight on Community Living is published by the External Affairs and Communications unit of the D.C. Office on Aging. Advertising contained in the Current is not endorsed by the D.C. Office on Aging or by the publisher. The D.C.Office on Aging is responsible for developing and carrying out a comprehensive and coordinated system of health, nutrition, education, employment, training, and social services for the District’s elderly population, who are 60 years of age and older. The Office on Aging also administers the Aging and Disability Resource Center, a one-stop shop resource center, designed to assist seniors, persons with disabilities 18 years of age and older and family caregivers navigate the long-term services and supports system. 500 K Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20002 202-724-5622 • www.dcoa.dc.gov John M. Thompson, Ph.D., FAAMA Executive Director In accordance with the D.C. Human Rights Act of 1977, as amended, D.C. Official Code Section §§2-1401.01 et seq.,(Act), the D.C. Office on Aging does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived: race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, familial status, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, genetic information, disability, source of income, or place of residence or business. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination which is prohibited by the Act. In addition, harassment based on any of the above protected categories is prohibited by the Act. Discrimination in violation of the Act will not be tolerated. Violators will be subject to disciplinary action.

A Look at the Market in Northwest Washington

January 1, 2014 â– Page 15

Georgetown estate features extensive renovations

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fter passing through the hands of multiple development firms and sitting vacant for a few years, a historic

ON THE MARKET kat lucero estate in Georgetown has finally been restored to its original life as an elegant single-family residence. Built in the early 1800s, the Williams-Addison House (also known as the Friendly Estate) housed famed locals over the years, including philanthropist Clarence Phelps and journalist Alfred Friendly. Now, the newly refurbished estate at 1645 31st St. is on the market for $16,800,000, making it the most expensive single-family home for sale in the District. Between the mansion itself and its carriage house, the property has a total of nine bedrooms, nine full bathrooms and four half-baths. When Capital City Real Estate took over the massive restoration, the development firm enlisted architect Dale Overmyer, known for his grand custom homes, to revamp the mansion for 21st-century elegance. Capital City also commissioned landscape architecture firm Fritz

and Gignoux to re-create the stately grounds of the property’s threequarter-acre lot. Inside the main floor, guests and prospective buyers are welcomed by an octagonal foyer. This space is flanked by double front parlors with fireplaces mirroring each other, showcasing recurring features in the house — custom moldings, high ceilings, oversized windows and built-in cabinetry. Adjacent to the southern parlor is a formal dining room. Three sets of French doors open to a side veranda. Across the way is one of the newest additions to the home — a library and adjoining sunroom. Also known as the great room, this spacious area could serve double duty as a ballroom with its cathedral ceilings, glass walls on the north side and French doors opening to the side terrace. Toward the floor’s rear is another family room — also one of the newer additions to the home, and also surrounded by windows and French doors facing the property’s expansive grounds. Separated from this room by mahogany pocket doors is the elegant all-white kitchen, filled with Viking and Sub-Zero appliances, hardwood cabinets and marble

The extensively renovated Williams-Addison House in Georgetown is listed for $16,800,000. countertops. It has a large island, several windows with expansive views of the property and access to the dining room through a butler’s pantry. The upper levels have six bedrooms. Taking up the second floor of the eastern wing is the master suite, sitting directly above the newer additions on the main floor. A sitting area or private study is right at the chamber’s entrance. A hallway leads to the grand bedroom, offering access to large double closets, an elevator and a marble-clad bathroom. Two more bedrooms and two bathrooms sit on this floor, with three more bedrooms on the third floor above, where the peak of the Washington Monument can be seen from the back windows. The bottom level is filled with more areas for entertainment. It has a media room in the works and an expansive room that can accommodate a large billiards table. The dark space is covered with mahogany wood paneling and ceiling beams. Plans have been drafted to fit a custom bar here. This level also offers a wine cellar, a catering kitchen, an exercise room filled with mirrors, and, toward the rear, another set of

Photos courtesy of Capital City Real Estate

sleeping quarters with a bathroom. The back of the estate features a broad green area lined by holly and evergreen trees. It can accommodate a swimming pool or a tennis court. On the other side of the grounds, off Avon Place, is the carriage house with two bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths. Next to it is a two-car garage. The Williams-Addison House, located at 1645 31st St., is listed at $16,800,000. For more information contact Victor Valentine of Capital City Real Estate at 202-747-4851 or victor@capcityre.com.

SELLING THE AREA’S FINEST PROPERTIES

Jaquet Listings are Staged to Sell

Bethesda. Impressive new construction on peaceful lane in Glen Mar Park. High quality nishing w/grand spaces & wonderful ow. 5 BRs, 4.5 BAs. Options still available. $1,825,000 Marina Krapiva 301-792-5681

Be

e Early Bird

Bethesda. Exciting new construction built w/old school style, classic nishes, charm & character. 6 BRs, 5.5 BAs. Close to dwntwn Bethesda, Metro, NIH & Naval Hospital. $1,695,000 Marina Krapiva 301-792-5681

Enchanting

Bethesda, MD. Beautifully appointed & masterfully built residence. Open r plan on 4 nished levels. 6 BRs, 5.5 BAs. 1st r library & fam rm. Extensive built-ins. Walk to dwntwn Bethesda. $1,649,000 Eric Murtagh 301-652-8971

Extraordinary Opportunity

Colonial Village. Distinguished & grand colonial backing to Rock Creek Park. 5,000 sf. 5 BRs, 4BAs, 2 HBAs. Soaring ceilings, walls of windows. Family rm, library, au pair suite, back stairs. $1,399,000 Dina Paxenos 202-256-1624 Lee Goldstein 202-744-8060

Urban Oasis

Bluemont, VA. Magni cent 5+ acre estate w/views of Shenandoah Valley. Vintage 1910 home w/4 BRs, 3 BAs + separate guest suite & pool. Specimen plants, charming pocket gardens. Walk to Appalachian Trail! $1,275,000

Mountain Retreat

Barbara Powell 540-303-2299

Kent. Lovely brick home tucked away on leafy cul de sac. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths. Redone kitchen, 2 frpls. Delightful deck and terrace. Steps to shops & restaurants. $975,000 Leila Harrington 202-330-1717

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16 Wednesday, January 1, 2014

Events Entertainment Building Rotunda, National Gallery of Art, 4th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. 202-737-4215. ■A National Gallery of Art lecturer will present a 50-minute gallery talk on “Tell It With Pride: The 54th Massachusetts Regiment and Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ Shaw Memorial.� 2 p.m. Free. West Building Rotunda, National Gallery of Art, 4th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. 202-7374215. The talk will repeat Jan. 9 at 2 p.m. ■The Literary Book Group will discuss Todd Kreidler’s “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner,� based on the screenplay by William Rose. 2:30 p.m. Free. Room 220, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G St. NW. 202-727-0321. ■The Mystery Book Group will discuss “Black Fridays� by Michael Sears. 6:30 p.m. Free. Barnes & Noble, 555 12th St. NW. 202-347-0176. Film ■The National Gallery of Art will present footage of John Cage and Robert Diebenkorn working on prints at San Francisco’s Crown Point Press. 12:30 p.m. Free. East Building Auditorium, National Gallery of Art, 4th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. 202-737-4215. The film will be shown again Friday and Saturday at 12:30 p.m. Special event ■In honor of the “Van Gogh Repetitions� exhibit, “Phillips After 5� will feature 15-minute focused discussions about artworks by Vincent van Gogh, interactive language lessons highlighting the Dutch influence on American English, and a van Gogh-inspired photo booth. 5 to 8:30 p.m. $10 to $12; reservations suggested. Phillips Collection, 1600 21st St. NW. phillipscollection.org/events. Sporting event ■The Washington Capitals will play the Carolina Hurricanes. 7 p.m. $36 to $476. Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. 800-7453000. Tour ■“Close-up Tour: Forged in Fire� will explore the Washington National Cathedral’s ironwork (for ages 10 and older). 3 p.m. $16 to $20; reservations suggested. Washington National Cathedral, Massachusetts and Wisconsin avenues NW. nationalcathedral.org.

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Wednesday january 1 Concerts ■The Grandsons will perform its mix of New Orleans R&B, rockabilly, swing and country two steps. 6 p.m. Free. Millennium Stage, Kennedy Center. 202-467-4600. ■Tribe Inc. will perform modern fusion jazz. 8 and 10 p.m. $10. Twins Jazz, 1344 U St. NW. twinsjazz.com. Special events ■The Washington Harbour ice rink will offer public skating. Noon to 9 p.m. $8 to $10. Washington Harbour, 3000 K St. NW. 202-706-7666. Regular hours are Monday through Thursday from noon to 9 p.m., Friday from noon to 10 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. ■“ZooLights� — featuring environmentally friendly light displays, a model train exhibit, two 150-foot-long “snow tubing� tracks, the Conservation Carousel and live entertainment — will conclude its five-week run. 5 to 9 p.m. Free admission. National Zoo, 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW. 202-6334470. Sporting event ■The Washington Wizards will play the Dallas Mavericks. 6 p.m. $6 to $332. Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. 800-745-3000.

Wednesday, Jan. 1

Lansburgh to show Wilde comedy In this adaptation, Bill Irwin and Mark O’Donnell have updated the classic farce and set it to live music. The endlessly crafty servant Scapin and his dimwitted sidekick help their two young On STagE masters marry penniless beauties despite familial objections. Tickets cost $15 to $45. Source is 16 through March 2 at the Lansburgh located at 1835 14th St NW. 202-204Theatre. 7741; constellationtheatre.org. Wilde’s satire waves together misâ– arena Stage will host Faction of taken identities, imaginary characters, Fools Theatre Company performing courtship and the undoing of upperscenes from “Our Townâ€? Jan. 9 through class society. The play tells the story of 12 in the Kogod Jack Worthing, a Cradle. self-made man The Kogod Cradle who uses the Series will offer a alias “Earnestâ€? in behind-thehis high society scenes look at life and with his the development love Gwendolyn of the troupe’s when he is away commedia from his country dell’arte staging manor. of the Thornton Studio has extended “Edgar & Tickets cost Wilder classic. $18 to $106. The annabelâ€? through jan. 12. The workshop Lansburgh Theproduction will feature open rehearsals, atre is located at 450 7th St. NW. 202Q-and-A sessions and staged scenes 547-1122; shakespearetheatre.org. from the original text. â– Constellation Theatre Company Tickets cost $10. Arena Stage is will present Molière’s wild physical comedy “Scapinâ€? Jan. 16 through Feb. 16 at located at 1101 6th St. SW. 202-4883300; arenastage.org. Source. The Shakespeare Theatre Company will present Oscar Wilde’s comedy “The Importance of Being Earnestâ€? Jan. Menotti, Weber and Liszt. Noon. Free. Calvary Baptist Church, 755 8th St. NW. 202333-2075. â– The group Samovar will perform Russian folk music. Noon to 2 p.m. Free. Conservatory Garden Court, U.S. Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Ave. SW. 202-2258333. â– Brass of Peace will present a performance by members of its tuition-free programs for high school students, led by National Symphony Orchestra hornist Sylvia Alimena. 6 p.m. Free. Millennium Stage, Kennedy Center. 202-467-4600. â– Jazz instrumentalists Peter and Will Anderson will perform with their New York City quartet. 8 and 10 p.m. $16. Twins Jazz, 1344 U St. NW. twinsjazz.com. The performance will repeat Saturday at 8 and 10 p.m. Discussions and lectures â– A round-table discussion on “The

“The Importance of Being Earnest� will open jan. 16 at the Lansburgh Theatre. ■Studio 2ndStage has extended the U.S. premiere of British playwright Sam Holcroft’s “Edgar & Annabel� through Jan. 12 at the Studio Theatre. The mischievous and provocative political comedy features undercover agents, surveillance algorithms and explosive karaoke — with the two title characters living a lie that could save their country. D.C. actress and longtime Studio collaborator Holly Twyford directs. Tickets cost $30 to $35. Studio Theatre is located at 1501 14th St. NW. 202-332-3300; studiotheatre.org. National Center of the American West, Erin Curtis of the Skirball Cultural Center and William Convery of History Colorado. 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Free. Warner Bros. Theater, National Museum of American History, 14th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. 202-633-1000. ■Author and filmmaker Vivek Bald will discuss “Bengali Harlem and the Lost Histories of South Asian America.� 6 to 8 p.m. Free. Langston Room, Busboys and Poets, 2021 14th St. NW. 202-387-7638. ■Timothy Howard will discuss his book “The Mortgage Wars: Inside Fannie Mae, Big-Money Politics, and the Collapse of the American Dream.� 7 p.m. Free. Politics and Prose, 5015 Connecticut Ave. NW. 202364-1919. Performances ■Comedian Sheryl Underwood will perform. 7, 9 and 11 p.m. $30. DC Improv, 1140 Connecticut Ave. NW. 202-2967008. The performance will repeat Saturday at 7, 9 and 11 p.m. ■Busboys and Poets will present the monthly “Live! From Busboys� talent showcase. 9 to 11 p.m. $5. Langston Room, Busboys and Poets, 2021 14th St. NW. 202-387-7638. Sporting event ■The Washington Wizards will play the Toronto Raptors. 7 p.m. $4 to $346. Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. 800-745-3000.

Thursday january 2 Concert ■Listen Local First will present the D.C. band Deathfix performing original songs inspired by 1970s glam and progressive rock. 6 p.m. Free. Millennium Stage, Kennedy Center. 202-467-4600. Discussions and lectures ■National Gallery of Art docent Bela Demeter will present a 50-minute gallery talk on “Dragons in Art.� 1 p.m. Free. West

Thursday, Jan. 2

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Friday, Jan. 3

Past, Present and Future of History Museums� will feature John Gray, director of the National Museum of American History; Joan Marshall, director of the Bullock Texas State History Museum; Lonnie Bunch, director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture; Kevin Gover, director of the National Museum of the American Indian; and Louis Mirrer, president and CEO of the New-York Historical Society. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Free. Warner Bros. Theater, National Museum of American History, 14th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. 202-633-1000. ■National Gallery of Art lecturer Eric Denker will present a 50-minute gallery talk on “Northern Mannerist Prints From the Kainen Collection.� 1 p.m. Free. West Building Rotunda, National Gallery of Art, 4th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. 202-737-4215. The talk will repeat Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m. ■A round-table discussion on “Historians and the Work of History Museums� will feature Sara Absoch of the Dallas Holocaust Museum/Center for Education and Tolerance, Erik Greenberg of the Autry

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Saturday, Jan. 4 Saturday january 4 Children’s program ■Children will hear a story about choreographer Alvin Ailey and then create a special piece of art. 1 to 4 p.m. Free. National Portrait Gallery, 8th and F streets NW. 202-633-1000. The program will continue Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. Classes ■Yoga Activist will present a class for See Events/Page 17

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Events Entertainment Continued From Page 16 beginners. 11 a.m. Free. Petworth Library, 4200 Kansas Ave. NW. 202-243-1188. ■ Instructor Topher Bellavia will lead a three-session improv class for beginners, “Improvising the New Year.” 2 to 4:30 p.m. $90. District of Columbia Arts Center, 2438 18th St. NW. topherbellavia.com. The class will continue Jan. 11 and 18. Concerts ■ Blues guitarist Tom Principato will perform. 6 p.m. Free. Millennium Stage, Kennedy Center. 202-467-4600. ■ Pianists Alexander Paley (shown) and Peiwen Chen will perform works by Stravinsky and Rachmaninoff. 8 p.m. Free. Westmoreland Congregational United Church of Christ, 1 Westmoreland Circle. 301-320-2770. ■ Bryan Russo and the Tragic Figures will perform. 8:30 p.m. $10 to $15. Gypsy Sally’s, 3401 K St. NW. gypsysallys.com. Discussions ■ John Muller will discuss his book “Mark Twain in Washington, D.C.: The Adventures of a Capital Correspondent,” at 1 p.m.; and Joseph Cirincione will discuss his book “Nuclear Nightmares: Securing the World Before It Is Too Late,” at 6 p.m. Free. Politics and Prose, 5015 Connecticut Ave. NW. 202-364-1919. Films ■ The Chevy Chase Library will host the “Matinee Saturdays” film series. 2 p.m. Free. Chevy Chase Library, 5625 Connecticut Ave. NW; 202-282-0021. ■ The National Gallery of Art will present Ben Shapiro’s 2012 film “Gregory Crewdson: Brief Encounters.” 3:30 p.m. Free. East Building Auditorium, National Gallery of Art, 4th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. 202-737-4215. The film will be shown again Sunday at 4:30 p.m. Performances ■ Benjy Himmelfarb, Hillary Scofield, Daylon Morrison and Randy Syhax will star in “Wake & Bacon,” a weekly brunch and comedy show presented by LYGO DC. 3 to 5 p.m. Donation suggested. Shaw’s Tavern, 520 Florida Ave. NW. lygodc.com. ■ Dance Place’s “Modern Moves Festival” will showcase Dana Tai Burgess & Company, Bowen McCauley Dance and four other local contemporary dance companies. 8 p.m. $12 to $30. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. 202-3997993. The festival will continue Sunday at 4 p.m. with a different lineup. Special events ■ The Washington Harbour ice skating rink will hold a weekly “Cartoon Skate” event, from noon to 2 p.m.; and a weekly “Rock n Skate” event, from 8 to 10 p.m. $8 to $10. Washington Harbour, 3000 K St. NW. 202-706-7666. Sunday, Jan. 5 Sunday january 5 Class ■ Topher Bellavia will lead a three-session improv class for beginners. 4 to 6:30 p.m. $90. District of Columbia Arts Center, 2438 18th St. NW. topherbellavia.com. The class will continue Jan. 12 and 19. Concerts ■ French violinist Pekka Kuusisto and American pianist Nico Muhly will perform an eclectic program incorporating classical, jazz and electronic styles. 4 p.m. $15 to $30; reservations suggested. Phillips Collection, 1600 21st St. NW. phillipscollection.org/music. ■ The Washington DC Jewish Community Center and the Levine School of Music will present “From Bartók to Bebop,” featuring cellist Vasily Popov, pianist Ralitza Patcheva and the violin/viola duo marcolovia. 4 to 5:30 p.m. $7.50 to $15. Washington DC Jewish Community Center, 1529 16th St. NW. washingtondcjcc.org. ■ The Choir of Christ Church will perform the music of Herbert W. Sumsion, Geoffrey Shaw and Henry Walford Davies. 5 p.m. Free. Christ Church, Georgetown, 31st and O streets NW. 202-333-6677. ■ Jeremy Filsell, artist in residence at the Washington National Cathedral, will present an organ recital. 5:15 p.m. $10 donation suggested. Washington National Cathedral, Massachusetts and Wisconsin avenues NW. nationalcathedral.org. ■ Students of Maureen Andary will present a guitar and ukulele recital. 5:30 p.m. Free. Middle C Music, 4530 Wisconsin Ave. NW. 202-244-7326. ■ Mauritanian vocalist and ardine player Noura Mint Seymali will perform. 6 p.m. Free. Millennium Stage, Kennedy Center. 202-467-4600. ■ The National Gallery of Art Orchestra, pianist Xiayin Wang and guest conductor Vladimir Lande will perform works by Glinka, Rachmaninoff and Tchaikovsky. 6:30 p.m. Free. West Garden Court, National Gallery of Art, 4th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. 202-842-6941. ■ Dahlak Restaurant will present its weekly “DC Jazz Jam” session. 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Free. 1771 U St. NW. 202-5279522. ■ The Bobby Muncy Band will perform. 8 and 10 p.m. $10. Twins Jazz, 1344 U St. NW. twinsjazz.com. Discussions and lectures ■ The Digital Photo Club will present a discussion of one of the most basic elements of taking photos — the frame, or the edges of the photograph. 1:30 p.m. Free. Petworth Library, 4200 Kansas Ave. NW. 202-243-1188. ■ The National Gallery of Art will present a screening of artist Andy Goldsworthy’s Nov. 11 lecture on his work. 2 p.m. Free. East Building Auditorium, National Gallery of Art, 4th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. 202-737-4215. ■ Jonathan Schanzer will discuss his book “State of Failure: Yasser Arafat, Mahmoud Abbas, and the Unmaking of the Palestinian State.” 5 p.m. Free. Politics and Prose, 5015 Connecticut Ave. NW. 202

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Wednesday, January 1, 2014

17

Georgetown artist featured

“Staples and Gravy,” featuring new oil paintings by Georgetown artist Edward Bear Miller that portray scenes in the District and other locations across the country, will open tomorrow at Foundry gallery and continue through Feb. 2. An opening reception will take place Friday from 6 to 8

On ExHIBIT p.m., and a closing reception will take place Feb. 1 from 4 to 6 p.m. Located at 1314 18th St. NW, the gallery is open Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. 202-463-0203. ■ Touchstone gallery will open two exhibits Friday with a reception from 6 to 8:30 p.m. The shows will continue through Feb. 2 and include an “encore party” Jan. 23 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. “White Out/Color In” features colorful works in diverse media by gallery artists. “Form Transformed: Five Sculptors” highlights Dana Brotman, Michelle Frazier, Rosemary Luckett, Janathel Shaw and Janet Wheeler, who transform earthThe national gallery is en materials and detriexhibiting Vincent van tus into sculpture. gogh’s painting “green Located at 901 New York Ave. NW, the Wheat Fields, auvers.” gallery is open Wednesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. 202-347-2787. ■ Wonder graphics will open an exhibit Monday of abstract paintings by Lois Mark informed by diverse cultures and styles. The show will continue through Feb. 28. Located at 1000 Vermont Ave. NW, the gallery is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 202-898-1700. 364-1919. Special events ■ GALA Theatre’s “Three Kings Day

Edward Bear Miller’s “Keythedral” is part of a Foundry gallery exhibit of the artist’s work. ■ “Voices of the Vigil,” documenting a vigil to free Soviet Jews that took place daily from 1970 to 1991 in front of the Soviet Union’s embassy on 16th Street, opened recently at Washington Hebrew Congregation. The exhibit will continue through April 6. Located at 3935 Macomb St. NW, the congregation is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 202-3627100. ■ The national gallery of art recently began exhibiting its newly acquired painting by Vincent van Gogh titled “Green Wheat Fields, Auvers” (1890). A gift from Rachel Lambert Mellon (wife of gallery benefactor Paul Mellon), the painting is on permanent display in the West Building Impressionist Galleries. Located at 6th Street and Constitution Avenue NW, the museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 202-737-4215. ■ “Emancipation: Meditations on Freedom,” highlighting the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation with 30 works by 17 U.S.-based artists on the concept of freedom, will close Sunday with a reception and artist talk at 4 p.m. at the District of Columbia arts Center. Located at 2438 18th St. NW, the center is open Wednesday through Sunday from 2 to 7 p.m. 202-462-7833. and 2:30 p.m. Free; tickets required. GALA Theatre, 3333 14th St. NW. 202234-7174. A procession with the Three See Events/Page 18

Celebration/Fiesta de los Reyes Magos” will feature singing, dancing and storytelling, as well as the traditional nativity and the giving of gifts by the Magi. 11:30 a.m.

18 Wednesday, January 1, 2014

Events Entertainment will continue Jan. 13, 20 and 27 at 7:30 p.m. Concert â– New York’s Yiddish Art Trio will perform. 6 p.m. Free. Millennium Stage, Kennedy Center. 202-467-4600. Discussions and lectures â– Alumni of the group 40Plus of Greater Washington will discuss “Creating Your Job Search Plan.â€? 9:45 a.m. to noon. Free. Suite T-2, 1718 P St. NW. 202-387-1582. â– National Gallery of Art lecturer Eric Denker will discuss “Pharaohs, Kings, Popes, and Patricians: A Visual Biography of the Savonarola Chair.â€? 12:10 and 1:10 p.m. Free. East Building Small Auditorium, National Gallery of Art, 4th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. 202-737-4215. â– National Gallery of Art lecturer Diane Arkin will present a 50-minute gallery talk on “American Impressionism.â€? 2 p.m. Free. West Building Rotunda, National Gallery of Art, 4th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. 202-737-4215. â– Hugh Wilford will discuss his book “America’s Great Game: The CIA’s Secret Arabists and the Shaping of the Modern Middle East.â€? 7 p.m. Free. Politics and Prose, 5015 Connecticut Ave. NW. 202-3641919. Films â– The Chevy Chase Library will host its “Marvelous Movie Mondaysâ€? series. 2 and 6:30 p.m. Free. Chevy Chase Library, 5625 Connecticut Ave. NW; 202-282-0021. â– The Goethe-Institut will present German director Werner Herzog’s 1994 film “The Transformation of the World Into Music: Bayreuth Before the Premiereâ€? and his 1992 film “Lessons of Darkness.â€? 6:30 p.m. $4 to $7. Goethe-Institut, 812 7th St. NW. 202-289-1200. weekly yoga class. 7 p.m. Free. Cleveland Park Library, 3310 Connecticut Ave. NW. 202-282-3080. Concerts â– The Tuesday Concert Series will feature soprano Allison Mondel and baritone Richard Giarusso performing “Weinachtslieder: A Christmas Song-fest From Germany & Austria.â€? 12:10 p.m. Free. Church of the Epiphany, 1317 G St. NW. 202-3472635. â– The U.S. Air Force Band’s premier rock band, Max Impact, will perform rock and country hits, as well as patriotic favorites and original music. 6 p.m. Free. Millennium Stage, Kennedy Center. 202-4674600. â– Saxophonist Marty Nau will perform jazz selections. 8 and 10 p.m. $10. Twins Jazz, 1344 U St. NW. twinsjazz.com. Discussions and lectures â– The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at American University will present a talk by Rita Hadden on “Hong Kong: My Family’s Role in Its Early History.â€? 10 to 11:50 a.m. Free. Temple Baptist Church, 3850 Nebraska Ave. NW. 202-895-4860. â– Ian Russell, director of the Elphinstone Institute at the University of Aberdeen, will discuss “The ‘Hidden’ Carols: A Christmas Singing Tradition in the English Pennines.â€? Noon. Free. Mary Pickford Theater, Madison Building, Library of Congress, 101 Independence Ave. SE. 202707-5510. â– Economist and legal scholar Neil H. Buchanan will discuss his book “The Debt Ceiling Disasters: How the Republicans Created an Unnecessary Constitutional Crisis and How the Democrats Can Fight Back.â€? Luncheon at 12:15 p.m.; program at 1 p.m. $10 to $30. Woman’s National Democratic Club, 1526 New Hampshire Ave. NW. 202-232-7363. â– A Human Rights Day discussion of refugee rights will feature Olivia Bueno, associate director of the International Refugee Rights Initiative; Linda Rabben, author of “Give Refuge to the Stranger: The Past, Present, and Future of Sanctuaryâ€?; and George Sadek of the Library of Congress. 1 p.m. Free. Mumford Room, Madison Building, Library of Congress, 101 Independence Ave. SE. 202-707-4642. â– The DC Science Cafe will feature a talk by John Amos and Paul Woods, partâ– The Washington DC Jewish Community Center will present Tracie Holder and Karen Thorsen’s 2012 documentary “Joe Papp in Five Acts,â€? about New York’s indomitable, street-wise champion of the arts. 7:30 p.m. $10. Washington DC Jewish Community Center, 1529 16th St. NW. washingtondcjcc.org. Performances â– The Washington Improv Theater’s “Harold Nightâ€? will feature performances by ensembles People Like Us and Spirit Bear, followed by an improv jam. 9 p.m. Pay-what-you-choose. Source, 1835 14th St. NW. washingtonimprovtheater.com. â– Busboys and Poets will present an open mic poetry night. 9 to 11 p.m. $5. Langston Room, Busboys and Poets, 2021 14th St. NW. 202-387-7638. reading â– A Zora Neale Hurston birthday celebration will feature readings of the author’s work by E. Ethelbert Miller, Courtland Milloy and A’Lelia Bundles, among other writers and scholars. 6:30 p.m. Free. Great Hall, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G St. NW. 202-727-0321. Wednesday, Jan. 8 Wednesday january 8 Children’s program â– Nick Bruel will discuss his book “Bad Kitty Drawn to Troubleâ€? (for ages 7 through 10). 10:30 a.m. Free. Politics and Prose, 5015 Connecticut Ave. NW. 202-3641919. Class â– Instructor Joey Manlapaz will lead a hands-on workshop on still-life painting. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. $25 to $30. Corcoran Gallery of Art, 500 17th St. NW. 202-6391770. Concerts â– The Happenings at the Harman series will feature a performance by jazz vocalist Integriti Reeves. Noon. Free. Sidney Harman Hall, 610 F St. NW. 202-5471122. â– A monthly concert series will feature organist Richard Fitzgerald improvising on themes from the stained-glass windows of St. John’s Episcopal Church. 12:10 to 12:45 p.m. Free. St. John’s Episcopal Church, Lafayette Square, 16th and H streets NW. 202-347-8766. â– Ethiopian singer-songwriter Wayna will perform a mix of soul, rock, reggae and world music. 6 p.m. Free. Millennium Stage, Kennedy Center. 202-467-4600. â– Vocal Arts DC will present soprano Ana MarĂ­a MartĂ­nez (shown) and pianist Thomas Jaber in recital. 7:30 p.m. $50. Terrace Theater, Kennedy Center. 202-467-4600. â– The National Symphony Orchestra’s “NSO in Your Neighborhoodâ€? festival — a weeklong celebration focused on Capitol Hill and H Street NE — will open with a performance of works by Beethoven, Copland, Ives, Sibelius, Barber, Stravinsky, Piazzolla, Schoenberg and Prokofiev. 8 p.m. Free; reservations required. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. 202-3997993. â– Singer-songwriter Amanda Shires will perform her blend of Americana and altcountry music. 8 p.m. $8 to $10. Gypsy Sally’s, 3401 K St. NW. gypsysallys.com. â– Tribe Inc. will perform modern fusion See Events/Page 23

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Continued From Page 17 Kings and live animals will begin at 1 p.m. at the corner of 14th Street and Park Road NW. ■A celebration of expanded hours at the Palisades Library will feature a display of electronic devices such as the Kindle Fire and an iPad Mini, from 1 to 2:30 p.m.; light refreshments and library giveaways from 1 to 4:30 p.m.; a concert by the Unified Jazz Ensemble, at 3 p.m.; and a family storytime and craft activity focused on Jan Brett’s “The Mitten,� at 4 p.m. Free. Palisades Library, 4901 V St. NW. 202-2823139. Sporting event ■The Washington Wizards will play the Golden State Warriors. 6 p.m. $7 to $346. Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. 800-7453000. Tour ■“Close-up Tour: Forged in Fire� will explore the Washington National Cathedral’s ironwork (for ages 10 and older). 3 p.m. $16 to $20; reservations suggested. Washington National Cathedral, Massachusetts and Wisconsin avenues NW. nationalcathedral.org.

Tuesday, january 7 ■Discussion: “The Architecture of a Vision: Designing the Smithsonian’s Newest Museum� will feature Lonnie G. Bunch (shown), director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and architects David Adjaye and Philip Freelon of Freelon Adjaye Bond/Smith Group. 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. $30 to $42. S. Dillon Ripley Center, 1100 Jefferson Drive SW. 202-633-3030. ners in the nonprofit firm SkyTruth, on “God’s Eye View: Overhead Spying for Environmentalism.� 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Free. Cullen Room, Busboys and Poets, 1025 5th St. NW. 202-789-2227. ■David Aguilar, director of public affairs and science information at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, will discuss “Imagining Intergalactic Life.� 6:45 to 8:15 p.m. $18 to $25. S. Dillon Ripley Center, 1100 Jefferson Drive SW. 202-633-3030. ■Nick Turse will discuss his book “Kill Anything That Moves: The Real American War in Vietnam.� 7 p.m. Free. Politics and Prose, 5015 Connecticut Ave. NW. 202364-1919. ■Cindy Chupack will discuss her book “The Longest Date: Life as a Wife.� 7 p.m. $10. Sixth & I Historic Synagogue, 600 I St. NW. 877-987-6487. ■The Chevy Chase Library Book Club will discuss “Affinity� by Sarah Waters. 7 p.m. Free. Chevy Chase Library, 5625 Connecticut Ave. NW; 202-282-0021. Films ■Emmy Award-winning journalist and executive producer Regina Griffin will present her 2010 documentary “Brown Babies: The Mischlingskinder Story,� about the unwanted, ignored and forgotten children born to German women and African-American soldiers after World War II. Noon. Free. McGowan Theater, National Archives Building, Constitution Avenue between 7th and 9th streets NW. 202-357-5000. ■The Georgetown Library’s monthlong “Stories of the Subcontinent� series will feature David Lean’s 1984 film “A Passage to India,� based on the novel by E.M. Forster. 6 p.m. Free. Georgetown Library, 3260 R St. NW. 202-727-0232. ■ITVS Community Cinema will feature Christine Ibarra and Erin PlossCampoamor’s documentary “Las Marthas,� about the annual debutante ball in Laredo, Texas. A discussion will follow. 7 p.m. Free; reservations requested. Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. hillcenterdc.org/programs.

Monday january 6 Children’s program ■Instructor Afrika Abney will lead “Kuumba Expressions,� a painting workshop for ages 6 through 10. 10 to 11 a.m. $5; reservations suggested. All Souls Church, Unitarian, 1500 Harvard St. NW. afrika.abney@yahoo.com. Classes ■The group Yoga Activist will present a weekly yoga class. 7 p.m. Free. Cleveland Park Library, 3310 Connecticut Ave. NW. 202-282-3080. ■Susan Lowell will lead an introductory class in T’ai Chi. 7:15 p.m. Free. Georgetown Library, 3260 R St. NW. megan.mcnitt@dc.gov. ■The new Science of Spirituality Meditation Center will hold a four-week class on Jyoti meditation, a discipline focusing on the experience of inner light. 7:30 to 9 p.m. Free; reservations required. Science of Spirituality Meditation Center, 2950 Arizona Ave. NW. dcinfo@sos.org. The class

Monday, Jan. 6

Tuesday january 7 Classes â– Teacher and therapist Heather Ferris will lead a weekly yoga class. Noon. Free. Watha T. Daniel-Shaw Library, 1630 7th St. NW. 202-727-1288. â– The group Yoga Activist will present a

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ch n g d The Current W ednesday, January 1, 2014

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Events Entertainment tin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G St. NW. 202-727-0321. ■ Chang-rae Lee will discuss his novel “On Such a Full Sea.” 7 p.m. Free. Politics and Prose, 5015 Connecticut Ave. NW. 202-364-1919. ■ Shane Harris, author of “The Watchers: The Rise of America’s Surveillance State,” will discuss how a small group of government officials built the vast national security apparatus at the center of the debate over surveillance and privacy. 7 p.m. $8 to $10. Corcoran Gallery of Art, 500 17th St. NW. 202-639-1770. ■ Gretchen Rubin will discuss her book “Happier at Home: Kiss More, Jump More, Abandon a Project, Read Samuel Johnson, and My Other Experiments in the Practice of Everyday Life.” 7 p.m. $15. Sixth & I Historic Synagogue, 600 I St. NW. 877-9876487. ■ The Mount Pleasant Book Club will discuss “Cleopatra: A Life” by Pulitzer Prizewinning author Stacy Schiff. 7 p.m. Free. Large Meeting Room, Mount Pleasant Library, 3160 16th St. NW. 202-671-3122. ■ Richard Breitman, professor of history at American University, will discuss

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Continued From Page 18 jazz. 8 and 10 p.m. $10. Twins Jazz, 1344 U St. NW. twinsjazz.com.

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Discussions and lectures ■ The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at American University will present a talk by nurse practitioner Susan Pappas on “Insomnia and Other Common Sleep Disorders.” 10 to 11:50 a.m. Free. Temple Baptist Church, 3850 Nebraska Ave. NW. 202895-4860. ■ Housing Counseling Services Inc. will present a program on “Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.” 11 a.m. Free. Seabury at Friendship Terrace, 4201 Butterworth Place NW. 202-244-7400. ■ National Museum of Women in the Arts associate curator Virginia Treanor will discuss selections from “‘Workt by Hand’: Hidden Labor and Historical Quilts.” Noon to 12:30 p.m. Free. National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Ave. NW. 202-783-7370. ■ The History and Biography Book Club will discuss “In the Garden of Beasts” by Erik Larson. 6 p.m. Free. Room A-10, Mar-

“President Roosevelt and Early News of the Holocaust.” 7 to 8:30 p.m. Free; reservations requested. Rubinstein Auditorium, U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, 100 Raoul Wallenberg Place SW. ushmm.org/events/breitmanlecture. Performance ■ George Yamazawa Jr. will host an open mic poetry event. 9 to 11 p.m. $5. Cullen Room, Busboys and Poets, 1025 5th St. NW. 202-789-2227. The Current welcomes submissions for the Events & Entertainment calendar, although space constraints limit the number of items we can include. Items should be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event and include a summary of the event and its date, time, location with complete address, and cost to attend (indicate “free” if there is no charge). Also, please list a phone number for publication and a phone number for an editor to reach a contact person. Entries may be sent to calendar@currentnewspapers.com or The Current, P.O. Box 40400, Washington, D.C. 20016-0400.

BIKES: City falling short on 10-year improvement plan From Page 1

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crossing” near the Calvert Street exit in Woodley Park that forces cyclists to cross four lanes of speeding traffic. ■ The promised Metropolitan Branch Trail from Union Station to Silver Spring, which was to be completed in 2007, still has gaps that dump cyclists into traffic and discourage usage. “High-profile crimes have shaken cyclists’ confidence,” said at-large Council member David Grosso, and the resultant lack of riders makes it all the more dangerous. ■ The relatively new Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, though popular, is still missing an important section through Kenilworth. “And that’s the key part, the connection to Maryland,” one Ward 6 cyclist testified. ■ The Suitland Parkway trail, running from Pomeroy Road to Southern Avenue along that busy highway, is so dangerous that some witnesses recommended it be closed until the Transportation Department and National Park Service implement safety improvements. “There’s a two-mile stretch right next to the highway, littered with debris, garbage, broken glass — no lights, no barriers between cars and the trail,” said a cyclist from Congress Heights. Biking home one evening, he hit a fallen branch and fell into the roadbed, narrowly escaping a passing car, he said. “Consider closing down the trail until something gets done,” he testified. Ward 3 Council member Mary Cheh called the Dec. 16 hearing of her transportation committee to assess implementation of the Transportation Department’s 2005 bicycle master plan, which promised “world-class” bike facilities and infrastructure in 10 years. A top recommendation was to improve and expand the District’s protected bike route system. Eight years in, there’s been a significant jump in bike lane mileage — from 17 miles in 2005 to 56 in 2012 — including installation of separated lanes on 15th Street, L Street and Pennsylvania Avenue downtown. The District has the most successful bike-share program in the nation, the agency says, and more than 4 percent of residents use a bike as their primary mode of transportation, up from 2 percent five years ago. But two years short of the plan’s expiration, progress on completing protected bike lanes and trails has lagged, in part because the Transportation Department doesn’t control some of the land or roadways. “Why can’t we get it done?” Grosso asked, then answered his own question: “DDOT does a good job, but they don’t have full authority.” Added Ellen Jones, a longtime cycling advocate and current chair of the D.C. Bicycle Advisory Council: “We have a whole lot of front-end work, planning [at DDOT],

L Street is part of a major jump in bike lane mileage since 2005 — from 17 miles to 56 as of last year.

Bill Petros/Current file photo

but not a lot of completion.” Sam Zimbabwe, the agency’s associate director for policy, planning and sustainability, offered no excuses, but some explanation. Much of the trail work requires coordination with other agencies, most notably the National Park Service, which controls Rock Creek Park and the Suitland Parkway, and outside landholders like the CSX railroad, which must agree to cede rights-ofway and access. “By and large, trails do require working with entities we can’t control,” Zimbabwe said, adding, “We’ve installed all the easy lanes, the low-hanging fruit.” Grosso pressed him to lay out completion dates. “Dates are always difficult,” Zimbabwe replied. “A lot of things are out of our control.” But Zimbabwe and others noted a peculiar dynamic of bike culture. Safer bikeways encourage more people to commute and recreate by bike, and having more cyclists out and about makes everyone safer and also helps educate motorists about sharing the road. More cycling “increases safety and sends a signal that it’s a normal and viable way to get around,” Cheh said. Several witnesses said cyclist behavior also improves as trails and bike lanes become safer. Before installation of the cycle tracks, said one, “we created our own rules to survive. I took the lane, and dealt with the verbal abuse I got.” But on the now-completed cycle tracks downtown, Jones noted, “I’ve never seen so many cyclists waiting for the light to change.” “Implementation of protected lanes is a great success,” Jones added. “We need a lot more. Let’s not just get the low-hanging fruit, but aim a little higher.” Zimbabwe promised to give more precise timelines at the council’s oversight hearings on his department this spring.

24 Wednesday, January 1, 2014

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