Gt 12 24 2014

Serving Burleith, Foxhall, Georgetown, Georgetown Reservoir & Glover Park

Wednesday, December 24, 2014

Vol. XXIV, No. 22

The Georgetown Current

Wilson archive hosts decades of mementos

New mural at W Place enlivens neglected area

chri s t m a s cheer

■ Glover Park: Colorful art

highlights area’s namesake

By KAT LUCERO Current Staff Writer

When Wilson High School was preparing for its massive renovation a few years back, Pamela LipscombGardner and her staff discovered stacks of old scrapbooks of newspapers and yearbooks inside a padlocked cabinet.

As the school librarian, she kept them. But she was also in awe of these items from her alma mater’s past that she’d never seen before.

Lipscomb-Gardner then started noticing other items that needed to be preserved.

“I started running around the building and collected them,” she said. “Class pictures that were on one wall. Pictures of the Tigers [the school’s mascot] that the art club has painted over the years. All kinds of stuff.”

Three years after the refurbished school building opened in 2011, Wilson now has an online trove of memorabilia called the “Digital Archives Project.” The contents are located on Wilson’s website — wilsonhs.org — where students, alumni See Wilson/Page 16

By DYLAN REFFE Current Correspondent

Glover Park’s latest artistic addition, a colorful mural on the stairwell connecting Tunlaw Road with 37th Street, has brought big changes to a once-neglected area.

The stairway at W Place — a common shortcut for pedestrians heading to and from Wisconsin Avenue — was generally considered an eyesore in the past. But when local artist Jarrett Ferrier won a grant from

Group wins five-year lease for Dupont Underground Brian Kapur/The Current

The National Broadway Chorus presented “Christmas by the Letter,” an original musical comedy about a family preparing for a Christmas party and writing a family newsletter, at the Georgetown Lutheran Church on Friday.

By BRADY HOLT Current Staff Writer

NEWS

Brian Kapur/The Current

The Tenley View project is slated for completion in late 2015. around Northwest D.C.:

Adams Morgan

■ 2350 16th St.: Developers are proposing a 60-foot-tall, 140-unit residential building on a surface parking lot that now belongs to the

■ 3501 Nebraska Ave.: The university broke ground on its long-planned See Development/Page 9

SPOR TS

Council finalizes financing deal for D.C. United stadium — Page 3

Georgetown hoops legend looks to guide Wilson girls — Page 13

to host exhibits, performances

Current Staff Writer

Meridian International nonprofit.

The idea remains in its early stages, but in the new year expect neighbors, community groups and city panels — the Zoning Commission and Historic Preservation Review Board — to weigh in on the concept and its design.

■ 1700 Columbia Road: Construction is wrapping up on the Ontario 17 mixed-use building, which replaced the former Ontario Theatre after a hard-fought preservation battle. Its 80 condominium units should be completed this coming spring.

American University

■ Arts: Former trolley station

By KATIE PEARCE

2015: An eventful year for D.C. development As the new year approaches, so too does a host of new development all around Northwest.

Some of these projects will begin construction in 2015, with the demolition of existing buildings preceding the rise of cranes and walls. Others will be completed, with tenants moving in and neighbors basking in the end of construction noise, parking restrictions and other impacts.

And in other cases, developers will push for key approvals from various city or federal agencies, and seek the community buy-in that typically smoothes that process.

Here’s a sample of sites to watch

the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities in 2012, the city needed to make a number of improvements to the area before his mural could proceed.

“It was just a mess down there, grass growing everywhere, trash bins left out, and even that beat-up old guardrail,” said Ferrier, a former president of the Glover Park Citizens Association.

“We identified that area as a place that could use some beautification,” said Brian Cohen, the outgoing chair of the Glover Park advisory neighborhood commission. “It just seemed like a perfect place for some See Mural/Page 16

After finally winning a lease for the vacant trolley station beneath Dupont Circle, an arts group is now fundraising to activate the first 23,000 square feet of the space.

The vision has been germinating for years: to redevelop the cavernous “Dupont Underground” into a cutting-edge center for the arts, hosting possible performances, exhibitions and other creative endeavors.

But the ambitious project is just now seeing its first real marks of progress, with the nonprofit Arts Coalition for the Dupont Underground last week signing a five-year lease with the city for the entire 75,000-square-foot site. Now the coalition has launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise $50,000 for prepping one platform and tunnel area, which will serve as a testing ground for the broader concept.

“All of our efforts until now have been toward getting the lease,” said Braulio Agnese, a board member of

Rendering courtesy of Arts Coalition for the Dupont Underground

Fundraising is underway to bring the group’s vision to fruition in one platform and tunnel area.

the arts coalition. Now, he said, “the immediate concentration is on fundraising. The faster we can raise funds, the faster we can bring the space up to code and use it.”

The crowfunding campaign (at fundable.com/dupont-underground) had raised about $6,600, or 14 percent of its $50,000 goal, by Monday evening.

Agnese said the area in question, which stretches underground beneath Dupont’s main drag on Connecticut Avenue, requires significant rehabilitation before it even becomes functional. “It has no ameSee Dupont/Page 5

INDEX

NEWS

Third-grade Shaw teacher named D.C. Teacher of the Year — Page 5

Calendar/18 Classifieds/22 District Digest/4 Exhibits/19 In Your Neighborhood/12 Opinion/10

Police Report/6 Real Estate/15 School Dispatches/11 Service Directory/20 Sports/13 Theater/18

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The Current Wednesday, December 24, 2014

D.C. Council approves final Gray cites ‘much progress’ during his tenure deal for new soccer stadium

By GRAHAM VYSE

By ELIZABETH WIENER Current Staff Writer

Plans for a professional soccer stadium on Buzzard Point, mired in complexity and controversy for months, came together quickly last week — a holiday gift for D.C. United and its fans.

The D.C. Council, at its final meeting of the year, approved a financing and land acquisition package that, despite some doubts about cost, drew unanimous support.

The final plan includes borrowing up to $140 million for the District’s share of the project. The city will pay for land acquisition, remediation of environmental problems there and other infrastructure needs.

The soccer team, fresh off a winning season, will pay to build the 20,000seat stadium in Southwest at an estimated price tag roughly the same as the city’s. It’s now back on track to open for the 2017 season.

Only one major question mark remains. The council in early December removed a controversial property swap from the deal. Instead of trading the Reeves Center municipal building at 14th and U streets NW to the Akridge development firm in return for two acres at the stadium site plus some cash, the District will bargain with Akridge for the Buzzard Point land. And if that fails, the city can use eminent domain to acquire the land at a cost not yet determined.

Council members seemed pleased with the deal, saying it will spur economic development in a neglected part of the city and keep the team in the District. It also incorporates a “community benefits package” that includes a city liaison to connect area residents with stadium jobs, a new DC Circulator bus route and funding to renovate the Randall Recreation Center. Community leaders are negotiating with D.C. United for additional benefits.

“The package won’t please everybody,” said Ward 6 member Tommy Wells, noting that many

residents would like the team to fund a youth soccer facility at RFK Stadium when it decamps to Buzzard Point — a prospect he said is “still possible.” But overall, a new stadium “means new jobs in an area that needs jobs, retail in an area that needs retail,” Wells said.

Jack Evans of Ward 2 called the stadium package, in the works for 10 years, “a testimony to persistence.”

Remembering the District’s dark days, Evans said that in 1997 — when the fledgling D.C. United and Major League Soccer were in the midst of only their second season — “we were the only major city in America without a single major professional team. Basketball and hockey were playing in Maryland. Football just left.” Now the soccer team is staying, and there’s even talk of the Washington football team moving back. “The city’s rebounded,” Evans said.

Only outgoing at-large member David Catania voiced strong concern. By taking out the AkridgeReeves swap, the District is forced to borrow the lion’s share of the land acquisition funds, leaving less money for other needs, Catania warned. With a self-imposed cap on new debt, he said several projects could be shorted: construction of new middle schools, redevelopment of the St. Elizabeths East and Walter Reed campuses, and reconstruction of the downtown library. “It’s a matter of priorities,” he said.

But Mayor-elect Muriel Bowser, currently the Ward 4 council member, rejected that analysis. “It’s true that our infrastructure needs are big, but it’s disingenuous to say if we don’t do the soccer stadium, we can do all these things,” she said. “This is a smart package, an investment, and we preserve the right to redevelop [the Reeves Center at] 14th and U — on our terms.”

Council budget director Jennifer Budoff said later that there is room within the borrowing cap to fund about $180 million in new projects.

See Stadium/Page 5

The week ahead Thursday, Jan. 1

Mayor-elect Muriel Bowser will host a “Fresh Start” 5K Run/Walk at 9 a.m. at the Oyster-Adams Bilingual School, 29th and Calvert streets NW. Registration is free; T-shirts are available for $10. Visit murielbowser.com.

Friday, Jan. 2

Mayor-elect Muriel Bowser will attend an Inauguration Interfaith Service at 8 a.m. at First Congregational United Church of Christ, 945 G St. NW. The mayor’s inauguration and the swearing-in of the attorney general, D.C. Council chairman and D.C. Council members will follow at 9:30 a.m. at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Place NW. Mayor Bowser’s “DC Proud” Inaugural Ball, also at the convention center, will begin at 7 p.m. Free registration is required for the interfaith service and inaugural ball; visit murielbowser.com.

Saturday, Jan. 3

Mayor Muriel Bowser will host an Inaugural Kids Party at 2 p.m. at the Southeast Tennis and Learning Center, 701 Mississippi Ave. SE. Registration is required, and children must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian; visit murielbowser.com.

Current Staff Writer

Declaring the District of Columbia “stronger today than at any moment in our history,” Mayor Vincent Gray delivered a two-hour farewell address to a packed auditorium at Dunbar High School last Wednesday.

“Please know it has been the greatest honor of my life to serve for the last four years as your mayor,” Gray said. “We have come so far as a city during that time, made so much progress in so many areas, that it’s hard to say goodbye to what I think is without a doubt the best job in the world.”

Despite the extraordinary length of his speech, Gray didn’t come close to finishing the 17 pages he had prepared to deliver. In fact, the mayor repeatedly departed from the text, speaking loosely and often with humor as he looked back on his time in office.

“You know what? I ain’t coming back to do this again,” he said at one point, drawing laughter from the crowd as he referenced the impending end of his tenure.

Near the top of the long list of accomplishments he cited, Gray touted the fact that 44,000 privatesector jobs were created in D.C. during his tenure See Gray/Page 16

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Wednesday, December 24, 2014

The Current

District Digest Bowser names Wells, others to top posts

Mayor-elect Muriel Bowser named one of her D.C. Council colleagues and former mayoral opponents, Tommy Wells, head of the Department of Environment last week amid a wave of hiring announcements.

Bowser also selected Mount Pleasant resident Polly Donaldson, who runs a housing nonprofit, as director of the city’s Department of Housing and Community Development. She chose John Falcicchio, who is directing her transition, as her chief of staff; former Pepco executive Beverly Perry as senior adviser; Democratic National Committee national press secretary Michael Czin as communications director; and Marion Barry staffer LaToya Foster as senior communications officer.

Ward 6 Council member Wells opted to leave his post after eight years to run for mayor, having spent his time on the council working to create a “livable and walkable city for all,� a Bowser news release notes. His accomplishments include developing the city’s long-term streetcar plan, expanding the DC Circulator bus system and drafting legislation to charge fees for plastic bags that clog waterways. “With Tommy’s experience and enthusiasm, we will create new and innovative policies to make the District the most environmentallyfriendly city in the nation,� Bowser says in the release.

New housing director Donaldson “has more than two decades of experience overseeing and managing affordable housing and homeless service programs,� the release

says. Donaldson is currently executive director at the Transitional Housing Corp., where she has expanded the program to serve 500 homeless families annually — up from 40 when she started. Donaldson also has served as chair of the Mount Pleasant advisory neighborhood commission.

Chief of staff Falcicchio managed Bowser’s first council campaign and was a longtime aide to former Mayor Adrian Fenty. Senior adviser Perry retired in 2013 from a position as senior vice president and special adviser to the chairman of Pepco Holdings, and she sits on the mayoral transition board.

D.C. Council approves Palisades alley bill Without debate, the D.C. Council gave final approval last Wednesday to a controversial alley closing in the Palisades.

Some neighbors were still protesting because homeowners John and Patricia Klick had previously fenced in the “paper alley� — a designated easement that isn’t in use as a roadway — at 2427 Chain Bridge Road without city approval.

But council members said it was sufficient to levy a fine of roughly $30,000, three times the property taxes the Klicks would have owed if it were their land during the time it was fenced.

Prior to a tentative vote Dec. 2, Ward 3 member Mary Cheh called the fine “unprecedented� and noted that the alley closing would otherwise have been approved routinely because the District has no need for the land. Last week, there was no discussion prior to a second and final vote.

But at-large member David Catania and Ward 2 member Jack Evans voted against the closure.

Evans said later the bill sets a negative precedent. “They took the alley, made it theirs. They ought to pay the value of the land, not just property taxes. In Ward 2, if you build an addition without [permits], we make them take it down, and then apply. That’s the way it’s supposed to work,� he said.

Quality-of-life survey seeks local opinions

Nearly 5,000 D.C. residents responded to a new survey about quality-of-life issues in the first week of an effort to “give the mayor-elect a true pulse of the people,� according to a news release.

The Talking Transition DC survey includes questions on housing needs, police relations, neighborhood shopping opportunities and more. Canvassers have spread across the city to get answers, and residents can also respond at talkingtransitiondc.com.

A “video soapbox� will display citizen input at 1100 H St. NW, Suite M-100, and the data collected will be used in a mid-January town hall meeting with Mayor Muriel Bowser.

DC Vote, DC Working Families, the National Institute for Civil Discourse and the Urban Institute are working together on the project.

City breaks ground on Ellington project

A groundbreaking featuring Mayor Vincent Gray Friday launched the modernization of Duke Ellington School of the Arts.

Culture $MVC

The project will update the 116-year-old Burleith building by restoring its “historic elegance ‌ while bringing the campus into the 21st century,â€? according to a news release.

The work, to be completed in 2016, will add about 100,000 square feet of space, creating new classrooms, labs, studio theater spaces, digital-art studios, dance studios, practice rooms and art galleries.

Ward 2 D.C. Council member Jack Evans, Schools Chancellor Kaya Henderson and others joined Gray at the 3500 R St. campus.

Bill cuts paperwork for CBE certification

The D.C. Council is simplifying the recertification process for small local businesses that employ mostly District residents, according to atlarge member Vincent Orange.

Orange discussed the changes during the recent Small Business Economic Development Summit III, which he and Mayor-elect Muriel Bowser convened.

Called “Certified Business Enterprises,� these small local firms legally get preference when competing for city government business.

The council has approved legislation that will allow the companies to self-recertify, provided they have paid all the taxes they owe, there have been no material changes in their ownership and they’re up to date on their filings with the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.

Past law for recertifying required completing a form that’s almost as complicated as originally enrolling.

The changes also extend recertification’s to last for three years rather than two.

Under the legislation, 82 District government agencies are supposed

The Current

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to make at least 50 percent of their purchases with the listed Certified Business Enterprises. Any exceptions must be approved by the mayor. Currently, many agencies do not fulfill that obligation, Orange said.

Robert Summers, who heads the D.C. Department of Small and Local Business Development, told attendees his agency also helps certified companies get federal business and is trying to help them more with foreign business as well.

D.C. park facilities to close for holidays

The D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation will close all facilities — including rec centers, community centers and indoor pools — at 6 p.m. Dec. 24 and 31 and keep them closed Dec. 25 and 26 and Jan. 1.

In addition, recreation and community centers operated on altered holiday schedules Dec. 22 and 23 and will do so again Dec. 29, Dec. 30 and Jan. 2 (visit dpr.dc.gov for details). Aquatic centers will maintain normal hours those days aside from reopening at 9 a.m. Jan. 2.

All agency fields will be closed Dec. 25 and 26 and Jan. 1. Parks and playgrounds will be open for general use, though gated locations will remain locked.

Finally, the agency will offer two Winter Wondercamp sessions during D.C. Public Schools’ winter break, the first one earlier this week and the second on Dec. 29, Dec. 30 and Jan. 2. Space is still available for the camp, which offers options for 6- to 13-year-olds that extend from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Site details and registration are online.

Local artists to debut new summer festival

Writer George Pelecanos, Fort Reno Concerts organizer Amanda MacKaye and restaurateur Paul Ruppert are among the locals planning a new D.C. music, literature and family festival to be held in June.

The Our City Festival is an outgrowth of the Our City Film Festival, which Kendra Rubinfeld launched in 2008. Her PR company, KRPR, is joining with the D.C. Public Library agency to present the new event.

Details have yet to be determined, but the festival will aim to celebrate the city through film, music and literature. The advisory committee also includes musician Christylez Bacon, DC Shorts Film Festival founder Jon Gann, Fantom Comics manager Esther Kim and filmmaker/writer/arts organizer Susan Barocas.

Corrections

As a matter of policy, The Current corrects all errors of substance.

To report an error, call the managing editor at 202-567-2011.

The Current Wednesday, December 24, 2014

5

Shaw instructor named Teacher of the Year Bowser inaugural to include new 5K event in Woodley

By GRAHAM VYSE Current Staff Writer

Charisse Robinson, a third-grade teacher at Cleveland Elementary School in Shaw, has been named Teacher of the Year by D.C. Public Schools.

Robinson, who has taught at Cleveland for almost seven years, formally received the honor last Wednesday at an emotional school assembly. Cleveland principal Dawn Feltman joined D.C. Schools Chancellor Kaya Henderson and other officials to present her with the award.

Around 2 p.m., an announcement over the loudspeaker directed students, faculty and staff to the auditorium, which had been decorated with poinsettias, lights and other trappings of the holiday season.

Robinson entered last, wiping away tears as the crowd erupted in applause. She walked up to the stage and embraced Feltman, Henderson and her husband, all of whom were waiting for her.

Addressing the audience, Henderson said 1,500 teachers had been deemed highly effective by the school system this year, but “there was one who stood out, head and shoulders above the rest — and she was right here at Cleveland.�

Robinson said she was “completely speechless and honored� by the recognition of her work. She added, “There is no way that I could ever accept such an award and not give God glory.�

Feltman told The Current that Robinson succeeds because she operates under the assumption that all children can learn. “She pushes high rigor on the kids, too, because she believes they can do it,� the principal said.

In a separate interview, former Cleveland principal Annie Mair said Robinson also finds creative ways to make material exciting for her students. “One morning I went into her classroom and in front of the class she had set up a tent for a lesson,�

Mair said. “You know the kids were into that. She brings it alive.�

According to D.C. Public Schools, 95 percent of Robinson’s students last year met or exceeded grade-level standards in reading, despite the fact that a quarter of these children began the year significantly behind.

Robinson has achieved this success while also assuming other leadership positions at Cleveland.

For example, she has served on the school’s Academic Leadership Team and as a member of the Chancellor’s Teachers’ Cabinet.

Robinson will be recognized again at next month’s Standing Ovation for DC Teachers, an annual celebration at the Kennedy Center that honors high-performing educators in the District. In addition, she will receive $5,000 for a trip anywhere in the world to enhance her professional or personal development.

By KAT LUCERO Current Staff Writer

On New Year’s Day, Muriel Bowser plans to start her mayoral journey with a run.

Supporters can join the District’s new mayor for the Fresh Start 5K, a non-competitive run and walk. The event begins at 9 a.m. Jan. 1 in front of the Oyster-Adams Bilingual School’s Woodley Park campus at 2801 Calvert St. The free program kicks off a series of events surrounding the Jan. 2 inauguration of Bowser as D.C.’s seventh mayor. “We’re certainly interested in the future health of our city. It’s a perfect way to honor the city’s successes,� said transition team spokesperson Joaquin McPeek, referring to D.C.’s 2014 ranking as the healthiest city in the U.S. by the American College of Sports Medicine.

To participate, runners and walkers must sign up online at dcproud2015.org. by 5 p.m. Dec. 31.

The 3.1-mile course starts and ends on 29th Street in front of Oyster-Adams. The route will first go south, then loop around the residential neighborhoods of Woodley Park, Woodland Normanstone and Cleveland Park to the finish line.

Although the 5K isn’t timed, its street closures will only last for an hour. Participants who haven’t reached the finish line by 10 a.m. would have to run or walk on the sidewalks to make way for car traffic, according to Jason Washington, director of Bowser’s inauguration committee, speaking at the Dec. 15 meeting of the Cleveland ParkWoodley Park advisory neighborhood commission.

The neighborhood commission unanimously supported the event’s course, a route already approved by the D.C. Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency.

Bowser will be sworn in on Jan. 2 in a ceremony at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, beginning at 9:30 a.m.

DUPONT: Coalition aims to jump-start funding efforts for underground arts space

From Page 1

nities for habitation and daily use,� he said, and needs “power, water, lighting, bathrooms, cleanup.�

Once that space is prepped, the arts coalition — whose members include artists, designers, community leaders and businesspeople, led by local architect Julian Hunt — hopes to experiment with different arts concepts. “Before we can redevelop the [whole] space, we need to really understand how it works best,� said Agnese, listing installations, dance and theater performances, and pop-up

retail space as possibilities. “The point is to try everything we can. ‌ We’re using this fiveyear term as a proof of concept to get a handle on the possibilities for the long term.â€?

Agnese described the crowdfunding campaign as an “immediate way to generate cash flow and start building a community around the effort.�

But the group has a long road ahead for the larger goal of activating the full station, which closed to streetcars in 1962 and hosted a shortlived food court in the 1990s. Cost estimates for the permanent build-out of the space have exceeded $35 million, and the arts coalition is

now responsible for $30,000 in annual payments to the city.

Agnese said the group has probably raised about $20,000 total in the years that it’s been working on the project, but can more seriously explore other funding avenues, like grants, now that it has the lease in hand.

Bill McLeod, executive director of the Historic Dupont Circle Main Streets group, noted that “pacing is so important� for a project of this magnitude. Though the early vision for an underground arts space has generated a lot of excitement, he said, “we’re looking at a very big, expensive long-term project� that must

STADIUM: Plan clears council From Page 3

So borrowing some $100 million for the stadium is “not as dire as it sounds,� she said, and new revenue will continue to boost the borrowing limit.

The council also approved a long and complex list of “reprogrammings� to help fund land acquisition for the stadium, with more than $30 million in capital funds coming from projects already completed or that don’t need additional funding now.

Other reprogrammed operating funds could be at least partially replaced by a $2.5 million payment expected from the team, and $15 million expected from a land swap with Pepco of land it owns on Buzzard Point in return for a parcel in Shaw. “They’re not included in this bill but are expected to come in,� explained Council Chairman Phil Mendelson, an architect of the final deal.

In budget documents, the city’s chief financial officer certified that

the various reprogrammings “will not have an adverse impact� on the city’s financial plan or the budgets of its agencies.

Perhaps most pleased was D.C. United coach Ben Olsen. Olsen, who lives with his family in Shaw, described his hometown as “one of the most soccer-rabid cities in this country. There’s no excuse why Washington, D.C., shouldn’t be one of the best places to play soccer in the country,� he told reporters, adding he hopes to still be coaching the team that launched his professional career when the new stadium opens in 2017.

Mayor Vincent Gray, in a statement, insisted the original deal he proposed last spring — including the Reeves Center swap — would have been better for the city. But, Gray said, the new stadium “will spur important development along the Anacostia River, catalyze economic activity in a neighborhood that sorely needs it, and create jobs for District residents.� He’s expected to sign off before the end of the year.

“One Of The Largest Carwashes in America�

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maintain momentum past fundraising into the construction and contracting phases — ideally snagging an anchor retailer or gallery as the operator. A previous idea had also explored building tiny “pod� hotel units in the site.

McLeod speculated that Dupont Underground is unlikely to survive without some city funding, which is so far not available. “We’ve been told since the beginning we are getting no public money,� Agnese said. “It’s an obstacle, but we hope to be able to make the case to the city. That’s something we’ll be working on within the next five years.�

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6

Wednesday, December 24, 2014

n

g

The Current

Police Report This is a listing of reports taken from Dec. 15 through 21 in local police service areas.

psa PSA 101 101 ■ downtown

Burglary ■ 1000-1099 block, H St.; 2:35 a.m. Dec. 18.

Theft ■ 1200-1299 block, I St.; 6:56 p.m. Dec. 15.

■ 1200-1299 block, G St.; 9:31 p.m. Dec. 15.

■ 1300-1399 block, New York Ave.; 4:50 p.m. Dec. 17.

■ 1000-1099 block, F St.; 11:41 a.m. Dec. 18.

■ 1200-1299 block, Pennsylvania Ave.; 11:18 p.m. Dec. 19.

■ 1300-1399 block, K St.; 5:49 a.m. Dec. 20.

■ 320-399 block, 7th St.; 9:24 a.m. Dec. 20.

■ 500-599 block, 9th St.; 5:10 p.m. Dec. 21.

Theft from auto ■ 900-999 block, New York Ave.; 10:33 a.m. Dec. 15.

■ 920-999 block, Quincy St.; 3:17 p.m. Dec. 17.

psa 102

■ Gallery place PSA 102

PENN QUARTER

Theft ■ 700-799 block, 7th St.; 10:30 a.m. Dec. 16.

■ 700-799 block, 7th St.; 2:30 p.m. Dec. 17.

■ 700-799 block, 7th St.; 9:15 p.m. Dec. 20.

■ 600-699 block, H St.; 11:05 a.m. Dec. 21.

■ 700-799 block, 7th St.; 4:19 p.m. Dec. 21.

■ 5300-5399 block, Wisconsin Ave.; 12:15 p.m. Dec. 20.

■ 5254-5299 block, Western Ave.; 9:25 p.m. Dec. 20.

Theft from auto ■ 3900-3999 block, Upton St.; 9:30 p.m. Dec. 16.

■ 41st and Chesapeake streets; 10:43 p.m. Dec. 16.

■ 3700-3799 block, Davenport St.; 1:45 p.m. Dec. 20.

psa 203

■ forest PSA 203 hills / van ness

cleveland park

Theft ■ 4300-4440 block, Connecticut Ave.; 5:28 p.m. Dec. 15.

■ 5000-5099 block, Connecticut Ave.; 9:06 p.m. Dec. 16.

■ 3600-3699 block, Newark St.; 7:17 p.m. Dec. 18.

Theft from auto ■ 3400-3499 block, Albemarle St.; 3:05 p.m. Dec. 19.

psa 204

■ Massachusetts avenue

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

Motor vehicle theft ■ 3400-3410 block, Garfield St.; 9:50 p.m. Dec. 15.

■ 2301-2499 block, Wisconsin Ave.; 12:05 p.m. Dec. 20.

Theft ■ 2500-2503 block, Wisconsin Ave.; 4:04 p.m. Dec. 16.

■ 2111-2199 block, Wisconsin Ave.; 10:20 a.m. Dec. 17.

■ Wisconsin and Cathedral avenues; 9:31 p.m. Dec. 19.

■ 3200-3299 block, 38th St.; 2:57 p.m. Dec. 21.

Theft from auto ■ 700-799 block, 7th St.; 11:50 p.m. Dec. 16.

■ 700-799 block, 8th St.; 4:06 a.m. Dec. 19.

■ 700-799 block, 8th St.; 4:30 a.m. Dec. 19.

Theft from auto ■ 36th and Calvert streets; 6:30 p.m. Dec. 17.

■ 3100-3199 block, Hawthorne St.; 12:40 p.m. Dec. 20.

■ 3800-3899 block, Upton St.; 1:55 p.m. Dec. 21.

psa PSA 201 201

psa 205

■ chevy chase

Theft ■ 5523-5599 block, Connecticut Ave.; 2:20 p.m. Dec. 17.

Theft from auto ■ 3200-3299 block, Arcadia Place; 8:07 a.m. Dec. 17.

■ 3800-3899 block, Legation St.; 10:24 a.m. Dec. 17.

psa 202

■ Friendship Heights

PSA 202 Tenleytown / AU Park Motor vehicle theft ■ 4227-4299 block, Wisconsin Ave.; 6:43 p.m. Dec. 17.

Theft ■ 5254-5299 block, Western Ave.; 2:52 p.m. Dec. 15.

■ 4530-4599 block, Wisconsin Ave.; 7:50 p.m. Dec. 17.

■ 3900-3999 block, Alton Place; 12:30 p.m. Dec. 18.

■ palisades / spring valley PSA 205

Wesley Heights / Foxhall

Theft ■ 4600-4699 block, Greene Place; 12:07 p.m. Dec. 15.

■ 4100-4199 block, Massachusetts Ave.; 3:41 p.m. Dec. 19.

psa PSA 206 206

■ georgetown / burleith

Burglary ■ 3500-3599 block, N St.; 4:54 a.m. Dec. 61.

Motor vehicle theft ■ 3600-3699 block, S St.; 9:11 a.m. Dec. 15.

■ 3600-3699 block, Reservoir Road; 11 p.m. Dec. 17.

Theft ■ 3200-3247 block, O St.; 8:58 a.m. Dec. 15.

■ 1200-1237 block, Wisconsin

Ave.; 3:24 p.m. Dec. 16.

■ 3800-3899 block, Reservoir Road; 3:42 p.m. Dec. 16.

■ 3100-3199 block, M St.; 4:16 p.m. Dec. 16.

■ 1300-1335 block, Wisconsin Ave.; 7:06 p.m. Dec. 16.

■ 1401-1498 block, Wisconsin Ave.; 3:02 a.m. Dec. 17.

■ 3000-3099 block, Dent Place; 2:38 p.m. Dec. 17.

■ 3200-3275 block, M St.; 4:35 p.m. Dec. 17.

■ 3200-3275 block M St.; 7:20 p.m. Dec. 17.

■ 3200-3275 bock, M St.; 5:40 p.m. Dec. 18.

■ 1048-1099 block, Wisconsin Ave.; 12:48 a.m. Dec. 20.

■ 3500-3799 block, Winfield Lane; 11:57 a.m. Dec. 20.

■ 1200-1237 block, Wisconsin Ave.; 12:36 p.m. Dec. 20.

■ 1660-1699 block, 35th St.; 3:43 p.m. Dec. 20.

■ 3200-3275 block, M St.; 4:54 p.m. Dec. 20.

■ 1200-1237 block, Wisconsin Ave.; 7:04 p.m. Dec. 20.

■ 1525-1599 block, Wisconsin Ave.; 3:51 p.m. Dec. 21.

■ 3000-3029 block, K St.; 7:12 p.m. Dec. 21.

Theft from auto ■ 3500-3599 block, R St.; 8:30 a.m. Dec. 15.

■ 1700-1799 block, 32nd St.; 7:19 p.m. Dec. 15.

■ 1000-1199 block, 29th St.; 5:01 a.m. Dec. 16.

psa PSA 207 207

■ foggy bottom / west end

Robbery ■ 2300-2399 block, M St.; 9:16 p.m. Dec. 16.

Motor vehicle theft ■ 21st and L streets; 11:29 a.m. Dec. 19.

■ 2100-2199 block, L St.; 11:48 p.m. Dec. 19.

Theft ■ 1700-1799 block, Pennsylvania Ave.; 6:58 a.m. Dec. 15.

■ 2000-2099 block, Pennsylvania Ave.; 2:09 p.m. Dec. 15.

■ 1600-1699 block, K St.; 2:27 p.m. Dec. 15.

■ 600-699 block, 15th St.; 2:31 a.m. Dec. 16.

■ 2200-2299 block, M St.; 2:39 a.m. Dec. 16.

■ 1100-1129 block, Connecticut Ave.; 9:40 a.m. Dec. 16.

■ 2400-2499 block, M St.; 2:27 p.m. Dec. 16.

■ 1400-1433 block, K St.; 4:20 p.m. Dec. 17.

■ 600-699 block, 15th St.; 7:17 p.m. Dec. 17.

■ 1000-1099 block, Connecticut Ave.; 2:30 p.m. Dec. 19.

■ 1000-1099 block, Connecticut Ave.; 5:23 p.m. Dec. 19.

■ 1800-1899 block, L St.; 9:12 p.m. Dec. 19.

■ 1800-1899 block, M St.; 3:31 a.m. Dec. 20.

■ 2100-2199 block, E St.; 11:01 a.m. Dec. 20.

■ 2000-2099 block, Pennsylvania Ave.; 11:03 a.m. Dec. 20.

■ 2100-2199 block, E St.; 10:37 p.m. Dec. 20.

■ 1130-1199 block, Connecticut Ave.; 3:26 p.m. Dec. 21.

■ 1800-1899 block, K St.; 3:43 p.m. Dec. 21.

■ 2000-2099 block, Pennsylvania Ave.; 3:48 p.m. Dec. 21.

Theft from auto ■ 1800-1899 block, M St.; 5:30 p.m. Dec. 16.

■ 1100-1199 block, 15th St.; 7 a.m. Dec. 18.

■ 1130-1199 block, 17th St.; 2:50 a.m. Dec. 20.

■ 900-999 block, 16th St.; 3:32 a.m. Dec. 20.

■ 1400-1419 block, L St.; 10:14 p.m. Dec. 20.

■ 1800-1899 block, L St.; 9:09 p.m. Dec. 21.

psa 208

■ sheridan-kalorama PSA 208

dupont circle

Robbery ■ 1300-1699 block, Connecticut Ave.; 11:37 a.m. Dec. 21 (with knife).

Assault with a dangerous weapon ■ 2000-2016 block, P St.; 10:55 p.m. Dec. 17.

■ 1200-1217 block, 18th St.; 4 a.m. Dec. 21.

Motor vehicle theft ■ 1800-1899 block, Massachusetts Ave.; 2:25 p.m. Dec. 17.

Theft ■ 1700-1799 block, Rhode Island Ave.; 11:04 a.m. Dec. 15.

■ 1600-1699 block, O St.; 4:19 p.m. Dec. 16.

■ 1700-1799 block, Connecticut Ave.; 9:10 p.m. Dec. 16.

■ 1800-1899 block, Swann St.; 7:42 a.m. Dec. 17.

■ 1400-1499 block, Rhode Island Ave.; 8:41 a.m. Dec. 17.

■ 1300-1699 block, Connecticut Ave.; 7:50 p.m. Dec. 17.

■ 1400-1499 block, P St.; 6:40 p.m. Dec. 20.

■ 2100-2199 block, P St.; 7 p.m. Dec. 21.

■ 2100-2199 block, P St.; 8:29 p.m. Dec. 21.

■ 1200-1299 block, 14th St.; 10:21 p.m. Dec. 21.

Theft from auto ■ 1800-1899 block, Riggs Place; 11 a.m. Dec. 16.

■ 1400-1499 block, 23rd St.; 7:03 p.m. Dec. 17.

■ 1600-1699 block, M St.; 3:19 a.m. Dec. 18.

■ 1600-1622 block, 19th St.; 7:31 a.m. Dec. 18.

■ 1200-1399 block, 16th St.; 3:57 p.m. Dec. 19.

■ Leroy and Phelps places; 4 p.m. Dec. 19.

■ 1700-1799 block, Massachusetts Ave.; 3:14 a.m. Dec. 21.

■ 2000-2099 block, M St.; 11:39 a.m. Dec. 21.

■ 1500-1599 block, M St.; 12:16 p.m. Dec. 21.

T:10.25”

Wednesday , deCember 24, 2014 Wednesday , deCember 24, 2014 79

TTheheCCurrenT urrenT

IT’ S ABOUT

TO GRASS ALLERGY SEASON*

GRASTEK should be started at least 12 weeks before the season. Talk to an allergy specialist now about whether GRASTEK is right for you. *Date is approximate, depending on your region.

GRASTEK is grass allergy immunotherapy in a tablet.

It may help you gradually build tolerance so you become less sensitive to grass pollen.

Not actual size

GRASTEK is a prescription medicine used for sublingual (under the tongue) immunotherapy to treat Timothy and related grass pollen allergies that can cause sneezing, runny or itchy nose, stuffy or congested nose, or itchy and watery eyes. GRASTEK may be prescribed for persons 5 through 65 years of age who are allergic to grass pollen.

GRASTEK is taken for about 12 weeks before grass pollen season and throughout grass pollen season. GRASTEK may also be taken daily for 3 years to provide a sustained effect for a fourth year in which you do not have to take GRASTEK. GRASTEK is NOT a medication that gives immediate relief for symptoms of grass allergy.

Important Safety Information about GRASTEK • GRASTEK can cause severe allergic reactions that may be life-threatening. Stop taking GRASTEK and get immediate medical treatment right away if you or your child has any of the following symptoms after taking GRASTEK: trouble breathing; throat tightness or swelling; trouble swallowing or speaking; dizziness or fainting; rapid or weak heartbeat; severe stomach cramps or pain, vomiting, or diarrhea; severe flushing or itching of the skin.

• Do not take GRASTEK if you or your child has severe unstable, or uncontrolled asthma; had a severe allergic reaction in the past that included trouble breathing, dizziness or fainting, or rapid or weak heartbeat; had difficulty with breathing due to swelling of the throat or upper airway after using any sublingual immunotherapy before; has ever been diagnosed with eosinophilic esophagitis or is allergic to any of the inactive ingredients contained in GRASTEK. • For home use of GRASTEK, your doctor will prescribe epinephrine if you or your child has a severe allergic reaction after taking GRASTEK. Talk to your doctor or read the epinephrine patient information.

• The first dose of GRASTEK must be taken in the doctor’s office. After taking the first dose, you or your child will be watched for at least 30 minutes by a healthcare professional for symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

• Children should be given each tablet of GRASTEK by an adult.

• You should tell your doctor about any medicines you or your child take.

• Stop GRASTEK and contact your doctor if you or your child has any of the following after taking GRASTEK: Any type of a serious allergic reaction; heartburn, difficulty swallowing or pain with swallowing, or chest pain that does not go away or worsens; any mouth surgery procedures (such as tooth removal), develop any mouth infections, ulcers or cuts in the mouth or throat.

• The most commonly reported side effects were itching of the mouth, lips, or tongue, swelling under the tongue, or throat irritation. These side effects, by themselves, were not dangerous or life-threatening.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please read the Brief Summary on the following page for more detailed information.

Copyright © 2014 Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in USA. RESP-1132773-0006 11/14

Ad #: N14MK017_69D

AD: Kenny Evans

T:13”

Made from small amounts of natural Timothy grass pollen, GRASTEK treats the grass allergies that cause eye and nose symptoms. Starting treatment early may give your body time to become less sensitive to grass pollen in preparation for the allergy season. It’s recommended that you start taking GRASTEK at least 12 weeks before the grass pollen season. Make an appointment with an allergy specialist soon. To find a doctor near you, go to grastek.com/thinkspring.

8 Wednesday, december 24, 2014 Brief Summary

Carefully read the Medication Guide before you or your child start taking GRASTEK and each time you get a refill. This Brief Summary does not take the place of talking to your doctor about your medical condition or treatment. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if there is something you do not understand or you want to learn more about GRASTEK.

What is GRASTEK? GRASTEK is a prescription medicine used for sublingual (under the tongue) immunotherapy to treat Timothy and related grass pollen allergies that can cause sneezing, runny or itchy nose, stuffy or congested nose, or itchy and watery eyes. GRASTEK may be prescribed for persons 5 through 65 years of age who are allergic to grass pollen.

GRASTEK is taken for about 12 weeks before grass pollen season and throughout grass pollen season. GRASTEK may also be taken daily for 3 years to provide a sustained effect for a fourth year in which you do not have to take GRASTEK. GRASTEK is NOT a medication that gives immediate relief for symptoms of grass allergy.

Who should not take GRASTEK? You or your child should not take GRASTEK if: • You or your child has severe, unstable or uncontrolled asthma • You or your child had a severe allergic reaction in the past that included any of these symptoms: o Trouble breathing o Dizziness or fainting o Rapid or weak heartbeat • You or your child has ever had difficulty with breathing due to swelling of the throat or upper airway after using any sublingual immunotherapy before.

• You or your child has ever been diagnosed with eosinophilic esophagitis.

• You or your child is allergic to any of the inactive ingredients contained in GRASTEK. The inactive ingredients contained in GRASTEK are: gelatin, mannitol and sodium hydroxide.

What should I tell my doctor before taking GRASTEK? Your doctor may decide that GRASTEK is not the best treatment if: • You or your child has asthma, depending on how severe it is.

• You or your child suffers from lung disease such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

• You or your child suffers from heart disease such as coronary artery disease, an irregular heart rhythm, or you have hypertension that is not well controlled.

• You or your daughter is pregnant, plans to become pregnant during the time you will be taking GRASTEK, or is breast-feeding.

• You or your child is unable or unwilling to administer auto-injectable epinephrine to treat a severe allergic reaction to GRASTEK. • You or your child is taking certain medicines that enhance the likelihood of a severe reaction, or interfere with the treatment of a severe reaction. These medicines include: o beta blockers and alpha-blockers (prescribed for high blood pressure) o cardiac glycosides (prescribed for heart failure or problems with heart rhythm) o diuretics (prescribed for heart conditions and high blood pressure) o ergot alkaloids (prescribed for migraine headache) o monoamine oxidase inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants (prescribed for depression) o thyroid hormone (prescribed for low thyroid activity).

You should tell your doctor if you or your child is taking or has recently taken any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a prescription and herbal supplements. Keep a list of them and show it to your doctor and pharmacist each time you get a new supply of GRASTEK. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking GRASTEK.

symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

If you tolerate the first dose of GRASTEK, you or your child will continue GRASTEK therapy at home by taking one tablet every day. Children should be given each tablet of GRASTEK by an adult who will watch for any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

Take GRASTEK as prescribed by your doctor until the end of the treatment course. If you forget to take GRASTEK, do not take a double dose. Take the next dose at your normal scheduled time the next day. If you miss more than one dose of GRASTEK, contact your healthcare provider before restarting.

What are the possible side effects of GRASTEK? In children and adults, the most commonly reported side effects were itching of the mouth, lips, or tongue, swelling under the tongue, or throat irritation. These side effects, by themselves, were not dangerous or lifethreatening.

GRASTEK can cause severe allergic reactions that may be life-threatening. Symptoms of allergic reactions to GRASTEK include: • Trouble breathing • Throat tightness or swelling • Trouble swallowing or speaking • Dizziness or fainting • Rapid or weak heartbeat • Severe stomach cramps or pain, vomiting, or diarrhea • Severe flushing or itching of the skin For additional information on the possible side effects of GRASTEK, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. You may report side effects to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

This Brief Summary summarizes the most important information about GRASTEK. If you would like more information, talk with your doctor. You can ask your doctor or pharmacist for information about GRASTEK that was written for Are there any reasons to stop taking GRASTEK? healthcare professionals. For more information Stop GRASTEK and contact your doctor if you or go to www.grastek.com or call toll-free at 1-800-622-4477. your child has any of the following after taking GRASTEK: The Medication Guide has been approved by the • Any type of a serious allergic reaction U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

• Throat tightness that worsens or swelling of the tongue or throat that causes trouble speaking, breathing or swallowing • Asthma or any other breathing condition that Manufactured for: Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., gets worse a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Whitehouse • Dizziness or fainting Station, NJ 08889, USA • Rapid or weak heartbeat • Severe stomach cramps or pain, vomiting, or Manufactured by: diarrhea Catalent Pharma Solutions Limited, Blagrove, • Severe flushing or itching of the skin Swindon, Wiltshire, SN5 8RU UK • Heartburn, difficulty swallowing, pain with swallowing, or chest pain that does not go For more detailed information, please read the away or worsens Prescribing Information.

Also, stop taking GRASTEK following: mouth usmg-mk7243-sb-1404r000 surgery procedures (such as tooth removal), or if Revised: 04/2014 you develop any mouth infections, ulcers or cuts --------------------------------------------------------------in the mouth or throat.

Copyright © 2014 Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc. How should I take GRASTEK? Take GRASTEK exactly as your doctor tells you. All rights reserved.

RESP-1132773-0006 11/14 GRASTEK is a prescription medicine that is placed under the tongue.

• Take the tablet from the blister package after carefully removing the foil with dry hands.

• Place the tablet immediately under the tongue.

Allow it to remain there until completely dissolved. Do not swallow for at least 1 minute.

• Do not take GRASTEK with food or beverage.

Food and beverage should not be taken for the following 5 minutes.

• Wash hands after taking the tablet.

Take the first tablet of GRASTEK in your doctor’s office. After taking the first tablet, you or your child will be watched for at least 30 minutes for

T:13”

What is the most important information I should know about GRASTEK? GRASTEK can cause severe allergic reactions that may be life-threatening. Stop taking GRASTEK and get medical treatment right away if you or your child has any of the following symptoms after taking GRASTEK: • Trouble breathing • Throat tightness or swelling • Trouble swallowing or speaking • Dizziness or fainting • Rapid or weak heartbeat • Severe stomach cramps or pain, vomiting, or diarrhea • Severe flushing or itching of the skin For home administration of GRASTEK, your doctor will prescribe auto-injectable epinephrine, a medicine you can inject if you or your child has a severe allergic reaction after taking GRASTEK. Your doctor will train and instruct you on the proper use of auto-injectable epinephrine.

Talk to your doctor or read the epinephrine patient information if you have any questions about the use of auto-injectable epinephrine.

The T:10.25” currenT

The Current Wednesday, December 24, 2014

9

DEVELOPMENT: A busy 2015

From Page 1

East Campus project last year. The development will transform a former surface parking lot into a complex of 590 dormitory beds plus academic/ administrative buildings. A hurdle remains, though: Neighbors are complaining that the school is excavating a two-level parking garage instead of the one level that was originally approved. The university is continuing excavation, but city zoning authorities are warning that the school is proceeding at its own risk while the issue is under review.

Completion is targeted for fall 2016.

Brightwood

■ 6900 Georgia Ave.: The Walter Reed Army Medical Center is still years away from redevelopment, but 2015 will likely be an eventful year in determining the future of the 110acre site. The Zoning Commission will probably determine the allowable uses for different portions of the property, for which a master plan imagines a mix of residential, commercial and public development.

Also expect to see the resolution of a battle between the city and the U.S. State Department over how much land each will receive from the former hospital campus; the federal agency is planning a complex of foreign missions for its portion.

Chevy Chase

other Northwest sites. The tiny furnished rooms will target affluent newcomers to Washington who value transit and don’t own cars. The project has its necessary zoning and historic preservation approvals, and the developer will likely break ground in the new year.

■ 1745-1755 N St.: Formerly known as the “N Street follies,” years of failed efforts to redevelop row houses here led only to boarded-up buildings. But the earliest stages of construction have now begun to transform the homes into 31 condo units dubbed 1745N Row, and construction on the 38-unit 1745N Flats behind them will likely begin in early 2015.

Foggy Bottom

■ 2100 blocks of H and I streets: George Washington University began construction last year on a project to link three existing dormitory buildings to create the 898-bed District House, informally known as the “superdorm.” Ongoing construction at the property, which required the closure of a public alley, will continue through summer 2016.

■ 22nd and H streets: Construction is nearly complete at the George Washington University Science and Engineering Hall. Only finishing touches to the interior of the building remain before it opens to the public on Jan. 12. Construction of the eightstory building (with six more levels below grade) began in 2011.

■ 5333 Connecticut Ave.: The apartment building constructed by Calvin Cafritz Enterprises is slated to be Georgetown completed in summer 2015. With ■ 29th and K streets: Developers are the structure now standing at its full hoping to build about 60 condos and height, workers will likely begin a public park on the site of the West installing the exterior walls in late Heating Plant. Next year will conJanuary. The 10-level building will tinue the battle over how much of the existing 1948 buildhouse 261 rental ing the project must apartment units. retain. Developers ■ 3050 Military and preservationists Road: The Ingleside have brought forth at Rock Creek retiredueling experts to ment community is testify about the preparing to seek extent of the strucapproval for a major ture’s deterioration. overhaul of its camThe Old Georgepus. The nonprofit town Board, the Hisintends to replace toric Preservation aging buildings and Review Board and surface parking lots perhaps the Mayor’s with upgraded facilAgent for Historic ities and two highPreservation will be rise independentBrian Kapur/The Current asked to sort through living apartment the details before buildings. A Jan. 13 Construction is underway work can progress.

Board of Zoning on an apartment project ■ 3601 M St.: A Adjustment hearing facing the Washington project bringing 26 may be the last Hilton hotel in Kalorama. to 28 condos to the opportunity for opponents to voice their opposition, site of the Key Bridge Exxon is inchas the Chevy Chase advisory neigh- ing through the final stages of Old borhood commission has already Georgetown Board approval. The reached a compromise with Ingle- developer will likely break ground side. Construction is slated to begin on the 50-foot building in late 2015, with construction wrapping up 20 to in 2016 and last 30 months.

22 months later.

Dupont Circle

■ 15 Dupont Circle: The historic Patterson Mansion and a new addition behind it will likely debut the first “micro units” by the new SBUrban firm, which is also seeking to roll out a similar concept at two

Kalorama

■ Florida Avenue and T Street: Construction began in late 2013 on an 11-story residential building facing the Washington Hilton, and it will continue until the second quarter

Architectural rendering courtesy of EastBanc Inc.

The new building at 24th and L streets will include luxury housing, retail space and a new West End Library. of 2016. When the building is complete, it will roughly mirror one of the semicircular wings of the 1965 hotel and contain 190 rental apartments.

Logan Circle

■ 14th and R streets: The former Central Union Mission is being converted into a 51-unit building with high-end apartments atop groundfloor retail. The work at the building, dubbed The Mission, is expected to be completed in early 2015.

■ 1617 14th St.: Steps away from The Mission is a planned seven-story mixed-use building dubbed The Corcoran, which will contain 35 residential units and 4,000 square feet of retail. The development will replace a surface parking lot. Construction began this past spring and will likely continue through most of 2015.

The Palisades

■ 4865 MacArthur Blvd.: It’s not yet clear what will happen, but 2015 should at least bring some clarity regarding the future of the neighborhood’s aging Safeway supermarket.

A previous redevelopment scheme was shared before the grocery chain’s takeover by Cerberus Capital Investments, but the property was then put up for sale — marketed as prime for redevelopment.

Shaw

■ 90 and 91 Blagden Alley: SBUrban is planning 121 micro apartment units in two connected buildings in the historic alley. As with the firm’s Dupont Circle project, it offers benefits to people who use transit, while tenants will not be allowed to park cars in the neighborhood. But the Board of Zoning Adjustment is skeptical, noting division within the community. Its next hearing on the issue will be Jan. 27.

Tenleytown

■ 4600 Wisconsin Ave.: Known colloquially as Babe’s because the property formerly housed Babe’s Billiards, Tenley View is a 60-unit rental building bringing parking-free development to Upper Northwest.

Construction began this past spring and should be complete in late 2015.

Only then will its promise of attracting tenants without cars be truly put to the test, and skeptics and supporters alike will watch it closely.

Van Ness

■ 4455 Connecticut Ave.: Construc-

tion of the Park Van Ness mixed-use building will continue until early 2016. Replacing the 1930s Van Ness Square shopping center, the project will include 271 apartments and 10,000 square feet of commercial space alongside Rock Creek Park.

Construction has been underway at the site since December 2013, and 2015 will bring some of the first masonry work to the project’s eastern side as exterior framing continues.

West End

■ 24th and L streets: A long-in-theworks effort by EastBanc will replace the West End Library with a 10-story dramatically styled building with 164 apartment units (a mix of rental and condo), 7,300 square feet

of retail and a new 21,000-squarefoot neighborhood library. Officials held a formal groundbreaking ceremony for the project this month, but abatement of the site is expected to continue for about another week before the current buildings are razed. Two years of construction will follow.

■ 23rd and M streets: The companion project to the library development, an apartment building with 55 affordable-housing units will join a squash court and a new firehouse on the site of the existing Fire and Emergency Medical Services station. Demolition of the existing firehouse will begin in early 2015, with the new building likely opening in December 2016 or January 2017.

10 Wednesday, December 24, 2014

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The Georgetown

Current

Davis Kennedy/Publisher & Editor Chris Kain/Managing Editor

Organizational challenges

With newcomers replacing five veteran lawmakers, the next two-year D.C. Council session promises a lot of change.

Elissa Silverman, a former Democrat who ran as an independent, will succeed at-large member David Catania. In Ward 1, Brianne Nadeau defeated incumbent Jim Graham; in Ward 6, Charles Allen will take over for his former boss, Tommy Wells. Two other seats will be vacant until a special election in April: the Ward 4 post held by Muriel Bowser, the District’s next mayor, and the Ward 8 post previously held by the late Marion Barry.

Chairman Phil Mendelson has described homelessness, affordable housing and education as top priorities for the next term. His proposed committee lineup, which he shared last week and will formally present for a council vote at a Jan. 2 organization meeting, is intended to reflect those priorities.

We are glad to see that Chairman Mendelson has maintained a standalone Education Committee. The proposed chair, at-large member David Grosso, was an active member of the committee under Mr. Catania.

Otherwise, however, the organization plan calls for consolidation of the existing committees, in line with Chairman Mendelson’s reluctance to have freshman members serve as chairs. We see merit in the idea, but it might overburden some of the veteran legislators.

For instance, Ward 3 member Mary Cheh’s portfolio as chair of the Committee on Transportation and the Environment is slated to include oversight of the Department of General Services — a major task. At-large member Anita Bonds will head a new Committee on Housing and Community Development, which will handle matters previously split between two committees. Ward 5’s Kenyan McDuffie will add elections and ethics matters to the traditional responsibilities of the Committee on the Judiciary.

Perhaps most expanded is Chairman Mendelson’s portfolio as head of the Committee of the Whole. The added responsibilities include economic development agencies, the Interagency Council on Homelessness, and the offices of the mayor and city administrator, as well as the procurement and personnel departments. Mr. Mendelson has always been known as detail-oriented, and these tasks will present a major challenge.

We recommend a tweak to the setup — the establishment of subcommittees — as a way to spread out the work to more council members and provide freshman legislators with a better chance to learn the ropes. The subcommittees could all fall under the Committee of the Whole, clustered around responsibilities such as procurement, personnel and zoning. Otherwise, we fear that some issues will not receive the attention they merit.

Spend locally

The D.C. Council recently passed legislation aimed at increasing the city’s contractual spending with small, local and minority-owned businesses (known as “certified business enterprises”). We applaud the effort.

The measure, authored by at-large Council member Vincent Orange, takes several approaches to address the issue.

First, it tackles the common problem of many city agencies failing to meet their requirements for hiring small local businesses for contract work.

The bill prohibits agencies from spending more than 50 percent of their expendable budget with businesses that aren’t certified unless the mayor has granted the department a waiver.

Then it goes further. It says that if an agency wants to obtain a waiver to hire a non-certified business to do work costing over $250,000, the city must first notify all certified business enterprises, allowing them time to respond.

The idea is that increasing awareness of opportunities will allow more certified businesses to take advantage.

Mr. Orange’s bill also simplifies what’s required for a certified business enterprise to re-up its credentials, and extends the period for which those credentials last from two to three years. The measure allows a business to selfrecertify if it has had no material change in its operations, has paid all the taxes it owes and is up to date on its filings with the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs. This is a major boon considering the arduous application process for re-certification.

We hope these changes can make a dent in the city’s current low compliance rate with the contracting requirements. Agencies as a whole failed to meet the 50 percent requirement in fiscal years 2011 through 2013, spending only 33 percent. Fiscal year 2014 was on track to miss as well, with only 17 percent spent through the third quarter.

Given the benefits of spending government dollars locally, we appreciate any measures that can improve compliance. We hope to see this proposal become law soon.

The Current

Palisades trolley trail needs improvements VIEWPOINT jack koczela

I

read with interest the Dec. 3 article “Trolley trail’s future explored in Palisades” and wish to applaud The Current for publicizing the online survey (at dctrailsurvey.org) being used by the Palisades Citizens Association Trails Committee to gather input on saving, improving and maintaining the public linear greenway — the old trolley line — that runs from Georgetown to the Maryland line.

There is no foregone conclusion about the surface, the length, the width or any other detail of any proposed trail. However, the nominal “Palisades Trail” cannot remain and be maintained in its current state as some would seem to propose: It will continue to erode due to both natural and manmade causes; it will continue to be encroached upon by governmental agencies and private citizens alike; and it will remain unusable in many areas because of invasive bamboo, chest-high grass or mud due to inadequate stormwater management.

The trail needs some improvements in order to be maintained, and the process of deciding on those improvements can begin with a commissioned study to examine the possibilities for a connected trail, from one end of Palisades to the other. A study with input from friends and neighbors in the Palisades can provide guidance to any improvement plan. I am, like many of your readers, an advocate for our recreation center, the C&O Canal Historic Park and offroad trails in our city, though I am not an abutting property owner to the publicly owned trail.

A proposal to the citizens association served as an opportunity for dialogue with respect to how we might improve the connectivity of our neighborhood.

Personally, I like the idea of: ■ connecting via a neighborhood trail the far northwestern blocks of the Palisades with my friends in or near Foxhall Village to the southeast; ■ kids being able to walk or ride to schools and the recreation center off-road consistent with the National Center for Safe Routes to Schools’ recommendations; ■ seniors with less-than-perfect footing being able to

Letters to the Editor Georgetown projects are study in contrast Your Nov. 5 issue offers a striking contrast between a socially responsible project, the Prospect Street retail, and another, the Latham “micro” apartments, that places business interests above those of Georgetown residents.

Indeed, while the developers of the new Prospect Street retail building will be providing 100 underground parking spaces to replace the existing 84 surface spaces, the project to convert the former Latham Hotel into 330-square-foot studio apartments will convert the existing garage into shared amenity space for tenants. The assumption is that there would be no need for parking as few to no tenants will own a car.

The project representatives have indicated that tenants would not be permitted to park their cars on the street and that they will sign “something” to that effect. How is this going to be enforced? Tenants will have access to 42 “reserved” off-site parking spaces (half of the

enjoy a stroll near the river, but right in their neighborhood; ■ moms and dads with strollers not having to negotiate mud (or abandoning the trail entirely because of mud); and ■ walking (or riding) with my family and neighbors to all of our neighborhood amenities and vendors — off-road and off-sidewalk, without risk to life and limb crossing or walking along Arizona Avenue, Canal Road, MacArthur Boulevard and Reservoir Road, our biggest arterials.

Doing something to improve the connectivity and safety by having a well-maintained trail is what this discussion is about. It is a beginning, not an end.

Change is difficult sometimes. I am reminded of the Key Elementary construction in 1999-2000 when several able volunteers went door to door to address the concerns adjacent neighbors had with the effort to simply upgrade and modernize our neighborhood school. Likewise, I recall when many homeowners along Potomac Avenue objected to building stairs to the Capital Crescent Trail near Manning Street.

Those concerns were allayed and today some neighbors who opposed the stairs are some of the strongest advocates for the convenient, safe and reliable access to the Capital Crescent Trail. And I recall an outpouring of opposition a few years back to the modernization of our recreation center grounds and the installation of the artificial turf field. I am fairly certain that a vast majority of Palisadians would object today if someone proposed removing that field!

A professional D.C. Department of Transportation study, with input from the Palisades Citizens Association, its members and all interested residents of the Palisades and Foxhall Village, will guide and articulate any plan for improvements to the right of way.

I see great utility in connecting our neighborhood’s subsections to one another. For me it is not about connecting to the Capital Crescent Trail or the C&O Canal; it’s about improving the trolley right of way trail so it is usable and connects all of the Palisades — most especially to our recreation center.

Planning is important. So let’s continue to explore the idea.

Jack Koczela is a Palisades resident and chair of the Mayor’s Recreational Trails Advisory Committee.

number required by zoning rules) at market-rate prices, which is a privilege many Georgetown residents would like to be able to enjoy.

Increasingly, D.C. citizens who pay for the maintenance of the local infrastructure are providing free parking to out-of-area shoppers, thereby subsidizing retailers and their customers while confronting extremely difficult parking situations themselves. The Residential Parking Permit does not guarantee on-street parking in a resident’s own block. In many residential areas the search at the end of each workday ends with the achievement of finding a place three or five blocks away.

As a possible solution to this severe parking problem, I have proposed to D.C. authorities to allow local residents to rent or purchase curbside parking space in residential areas. The system would obviously not be compulsory nor applied in commercial

Tom Sherwood is on vacation. His column will resume when he returns.

areas; it would just be open to those residents willing to exercise this option. D.C. residents would thus be entitled to “reserved” or “assigned” parking spaces as, apparently, are some car-sharing companies.

The proposed system would provide additional revenues to the D.C. government, which could be used, among other things, to improve the parking situation citywide through expanded public parking benefiting commuters, shoppers and tourists.

The existing Residential Parking Permit program is based on a defective pricing system. Thus, the supporting rationale of this proposal is the recognition of the “value” of curbside space and therefore the possibility of selling or renting this commodity, on a priority basis, to interested property owners in D.C. residential areas. The existing program follows this same criteria, but the “price” does not reflect the fact that the “commodity” in question has a variable, not fixed, value depending on how far the available parking space is from the location of the owner’s property.

Cristina S. Ortiz Georgetown

The Current

Spotlight on Schools Aidan Montessori School

On Dec. 7, Jeanne Pettenati, the author of a new book about Galileo, came to speak to the elementary students at Aidan Montessori School.

Galileo was the first to use a telescope as a scientific instrument.

He made his own telescope. When it was first invented it was called a spyglass. Galileo used it to look at the night sky. He loved to do experiments. Back then few people did experiments because they thought everything was already known. Galileo thought differently. He did not believe all the theories and, from the time he was young, wanted to experiment and find out for himself.

His friend who lived in Venice told him about the spyglass. He also told him about a man who was coming to Venice to try and sell his spyglass. Galileo was very excited but he could not wait. He went to a glass shop and bought many different shapes of glass to make his own spyglass.

Using his telescopes he made many new discoveries. Most nights Galileo studied the moon and its mountains, valleys and craters. He wrote books about his work, as many professors do today. He found out that other planets also had moons. Galileo drew pictures of the moon, of Jupiter and its moons and of constellations. His first book was called “The Starry Messenger.” He also discovered sunspots, the phases of Venus, and that the Milky Way was made up of billions of stars.

— Sydney Wittstock, sixth-grader

Annunciation School

Hi, my name is Saron and I am doing a story about our very own Monsignor Antonicelli. The monsignor has three siblings, two brothers and one sister. He was born in Jersey City and raised in New Jersey. He has many plans for Annunciation, and he wants to carry on the community that Monsignor Lockman provided for us.

Now here are some facts!

1. Monsignor Antonicelli has been a priest for 21 years.

2. He has been a priest at six schools.

3. He has been to Rome to study to be a priest and he went through four years of college.

4. His hobbies are walking, reading and praying.

5. He said that the children at Annunciation are very vibrant.

6. His full name is Father or Monsignor Charles V. Antonicelli.

— Saron Eiob, fourth-grader

British School of Washington

On Aug. 27, the British School of Washington’s old Year 6 students moved into the secondary school.

On the first day of school, many Year 7 students were feeling excited but also quite nervous about going to the wrong classrooms and getting detentions. It was strange having so much freedom, having different teachers for each subject,

School DISPATCHES

being able to sit wherever we wanted at lunchtime and being able to use the vending machine! However those are probably some of the best things about secondary school. We also had to learn how to tie a tie for the first day of secondary school since we have a different school uniform.

I remember on the first day, we met in the classroom and were told loads of information about routines, rewards, homework and lots more.

Then our form tutor showed us where each classroom was so that we didn’t get lost. We also wrote up the timetable for the day on the whiteboard, which we still do now for fun!

Now almost 16 weeks into Year 7, I think we all feel we have been in secondary for ages and have slotted straight in; all of us are fully involved in the life of secondary.

We know where all our classrooms are, and we understand all of the routines and love it even more than when we started.

— Ruth Williams, Year 7 San Francisco (sixth-grader)

Edmund Burke School

In the eighth-grade English class, we recently finished reading “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” by Sherman Alexie. This book is about a teenage boy who grows up on the Spokane Indian Reservation and struggles to fit into his new school outside the reservation. During class, we discussed specific characters and their relationships to the main protagonist, major incidents and themes. The class also read articles about stereotypes that people have about American Indians and how these generalizations are offensive.

In addition, we wrote essays debating whether the D.C. football team name, the “Redskins,” should be changed. This was especially interesting because there were different opinions on this topic.

In our history class, we were also reading about American Indian tribes such as the Shawnees, Cherokees and Seminoles. Studying the same subject in two different classes from different perspectives is a great interdisciplinary approach to learning. The whole grade went on a field trip to the National Museum of the American Indian, where we learned about the many treaties that Indians signed with the U.S. government — most of which were broken. At the museum, we also viewed Indian artifacts, such as jewelry and musical instruments, which were all quite beautiful.

— Eva Gondelman, eighth-grader

Holy Trinity School

Holy Trinity School students in kindergarten through eighth grade celebrated the Hour of Code during the week of Dec. 8. The Hour of Code is celebrated all over the

world to encourage people to learn more about how to code computers.

All kids should learn to code because it opens up a new world for them. Technology is evolving, and understanding how to code teaches people more about how to use it. Mr. McShane, one of our assistant principals, told us that most kids today know a lot more than most grown-ups about technology because we have been using it all our lives.

Every age group at Holy Trinity participated in the Hour of Code by completing activities on iPads or computers. The sixth-grade students coded their own games and posted them on the Holy Trinity School website. If you would like to play them, go to the Academics and Technology tab on htsdc.org.

Then click on Samples of Student Work in Technology. The games are funny, and you can actually see the coding when you click on See Inside. Students worked hard on these games and enjoyed writing them.

In third grade we went to Mrs. Miller’s tech blog and coded our own Christmas trees and played some fun coding games. We really enjoyed seeing how coding works and realizing how fun it is.

— Ricky Price, Will Pryce and Ivan Roksandic, third-graders

Janney Elementary

Today. Right now. An upcoming event that many question day and night. What’s the Decatur House?

The Decatur House is a historical place that the fifth-graders put on a play at and take a trip to each year in October or November.

About a week and a half prior to the event, each person in every class gets assigned/chooses a part in the play. The play is about the Emancipation Proclamation signing, a major event in history.

There is one major role (Abraham Lincoln) and one narrator (Frederick Douglass) along with other semi-minor roles.

The four classes split up into two available days. Each class puts on the same play, but at different times. For example, the four Abraham Lincolns were Eliana Yafet for Mrs. Donnelly’s class, Kevin Harris for Ms. Schwartz’s class, Max Breton for Ms. Lutz’s class and Sydney Leiber for Ms. Fernandez’s class.

The meaning of the trip to the Decatur House is to teach the fifthgraders about working together to produce something good and for them to get comfortable with performing.

Upon arriving at the Decatur House, the two classes split up.

One goes into the old part of the Decatur House to immediately start filming, while the other class stays in the “Carriage House” and learns about the Civil War and the Emancipation Proclamation. Students also go into a special room and learn about a special person in the See Dispatches/Page 17

Wednesday, December 24, 2014

PIANO STORE CLOSING 300 PIANOS MUST GO! PIANO LIQUIDATION CENTER

9520 BALTIMORE AVENUE, COLLEGE PARK, MD. WWW.PIANOLIQUIDATIONCENTER.NET OPEN 10am to 6 pm 7 DAYS A WEEK UNTIL ALL PIANOS ARE GONE

877-635-1699

APPOINTMENTS PREFERRED

11

12 Wednesday, December 24, 2014

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The Current

In Your Neighborhood

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ANC 2A ANCBottom 2A Foggy

■ Foggy bottom / west end

The commission will hold its next meeting Wednesday, Jan. 21.

The time and location have not been determined.

For details, visit anc2a.org.

ANC 2B ANCCircle 2B Dupont

■ dupont circle

The commission will meet at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14, at the Brookings Institution, 1775 Massachusetts Ave. NW. For details, visit dupontcircleanc.net.

ANC 2D ANC 2D Sheridan-Kalorama

■ sheridan-kalorama

The commission will meet at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 12, at Our Lady Queen of the Americas Church, California Street and Phelps Place NW. 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, Jan. 5, at Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School, 1524 35th St. NW. For details, call 202-724-7098 or visit anc2e.com.

ANC 2F ANCCircle 2F Logan

■ logan circle

The commission will meet at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7, at the Washington Plaza Hotel, 10 Thomas Circle NW. For details, call 202-667-0052 or visit anc2f.org.

ANC 3B ANCPark 3B Glover ■ Glover Park / Cathedral heights The commission will meet at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 8, at Stoddert Elementary School and Glover Park Community Center, 4001 Calvert St. NW. For details, call 202-338-2969, email info@anc3b.org or visit anc3b.org.

ANC 3C ANC 3C Cleveland Park ■ cleveland park / woodley Park Woodley Park massachusetts avenue heights Massachusetts Avenue Heights Cathedral Heights At the commission’s Dec. 15 meeting: ■ commissioners postponed discussion of a public space application for a playground fence at Embassy Church, 3855 Massachusetts Ave. They will wait until January to discuss the issue, at the request of the parties involved.

■ commissioners unanimously supported a Historic Preservation Review Board application for a rear addition to a home at 3601 35th St. ■ commissioners voted 5-0 to oppose a Board of Zoning Adjust-

Citizens Association of Georgetown

I have two calls to action to share during this busy season. Last week I learned that the Glover Park Hardware store is going to leave its current location. I was shopping at the store and had asked if all the construction going on behind the store was causing them to have fewer customers. Parking on that part of Wisconsin Avenue is not fun. It was then that I learned they would be closing in the next few weeks. What a disappointment. Glover Park Hardware has offered exactly what I needed and has a particularly friendly, helpful staff. I consider it a real loss.

How about making an effort to have them locate in Georgetown?

Should we contact the owner, Gina Schaefer, and state our interest in having them move into our community? What do they need from the community to make locating here viable? Can the Georgetown Business Improvement District and the Georgetown Business Association help? Would we be fine having the store in an office building, with some parking? Many of us talk about wishing for a bookstore, a fish market and, now, a hardware store. These businesses have to be financially viable to the owners and investors. Who can help find the right landlord? If you want to work on this, please call me at the Citizens Association of Georgetown office (202-337-7313) and leave your name and how best to contact you.

The second call to action is in regard to the “neighbor notification” bill (B20-720) that passed the D.C. Council recently. Our organization is pleased with the legislation, which we championed for over a year.

It will require that when alterations are planned for a property, a placard be placed in a window and written notification given to abutting neighbors. What is of particular importance is that the notification begins at the concept stage. What is disappointing and of importance is that the bill does not include the necessary staff funding for the Office of Planning. A call from you to Ward 2 Council member Jack Evans or Chairman Phil Mendelson might well push this along.

Happy holidays and good wishes for the new year! Please keep these action items in mind after the first of the year. We all benefit.

— Pamla Moore ment application for a lot occupancy waiver at 2709 36th St. Commissioner Lee Brian Reba abstained, while Jeffrey Kaliel and Victor Silveira were absent.

■ commissioners unanimously supported a race route for the Fresh Start 5K, a non-competitive run and walk activity on Jan. 1 that will commence a series of events surrounding Mayor-elect Muriel Bowser’s inauguration on Jan. 2.

■ commissioners agreed to have chair Carl Roller write two letters to the D.C. Public Service Commission regarding Pepco’s services.

The first letter will detail problems caused by the utility company’s emergency power outages, which have affected several parts of the neighborhood more than once and most recently a few days before the meeting. The second letter will address repairing Pepco’s power line infrastructure as part of the conditions of a planned merger with Chicago-based Exelon.

■ commissioners unanimously supported a resolution praising the service of Judy Hubbard, assistant director of constituent services for Ward 3 D.C. Council member Mary Cheh. The commission’s Dec. 15 meeting was Hubbard’s last meeting as a representative for Cheh’s office.

Commissioner Margaret Siegel called for the impromptu resolution honoring the “incredible perseverance” of Hubbard, who has attended the meetings and worked with the commission on a variety of ward issues.

■ Commissioners called for sending another notice to the D.C.

Department of Transportation to remove a “no-left turn” sign at the intersection of Calvert Street and Wisconsin Avenue, bordering the boundaries of the neighborhood commission. The group had crafted a resolution to the same effect last month, following the same move by the adjacent Glover Park commission.

The commission will meet at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, at the 2nd District Police Headquarters, 3320 Idaho Ave. NW. For details, visit anc3c.org.

ANC 3D ANCValley 3D Spring ■ spring valley / wesley heights Wesley Heights palisades / kent / foxhall The commission will meet at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14. The location has not been determined.

For details, call 202-363-4130 or visit anc3d.org.

ANC 3E ANC 3E Tenleytown ■ american university park American University Park friendship heights / tenleytown The commission will meet at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 8. The location has not been determined.

For details, visit anc3e.org.

ANC 3F ANCHills 3F Forest

■ Forest hills / North cleveland park

The commission will meet at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, at Forest Hills of DC (formerly the Methodist Home of D.C.), 4901 Connecticut Ave. NW. For details, call 202-670-7262 or visit anc3f.us.

n

Athletics in Northwest Washington

ch

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December 24, 2014 ■ Page 13

GU hall of famer takes over Wilson girls hoops program

By BRIAN KAPUR Current Staff Writer

Brian Kapur/The Current

Wilson’s girls basketball team is being led by first-year coach Nadira Ricks, right, this season. Ricks is a graduate of Wilson and Georgetown University. The Tigers’ new coach is also in the Hoyas’ athletics hall of fame.

When Wilson High School began a search for a new girls basketball coach in March, one candidate’s resume glistened with local accolades: Nadira Ricks, a 1990 Wilson graduate and Georgetown University Athletic Hall of Famer.

Over the summer, the former Tiger and Hoya, who has been working in juvenile justice in Louisiana, got the call to become the team’s new coach, meaning a chance to come back home to the District. So far this season Ricks has guided the Tigers to a 5-2 record.

“This is my coaching debut,” she said.

“This is something I have always wanted to do and have been very passionate about. With my line of work, I could never fit coaching on the high school level with my regular job. But everything came full circle for me.”

While she doesn’t bring much experience from the sidelines, Ricks has plenty of hoops knowledge after her standout playing career at Georgetown. As a basketball star on the hill, Ricks was an All-Big East guard and an alltime defender for the Hoyas. She still holds the school’s single-season steals record with 112, and she held the all-time steals record until 2013 with 321.

Ricks also helped Georgetown take the 1994 Big East regular-season crown and make

it to the Sweet 16 in the NCAA tournament. It is still the school’s only Big East championship in women’s basketball, and it was the team’s first trip to the big dance. Ricks was inducted into the Hoyas’ hall of fame in January.

With her playing background and passion for the game, Ricks is a self-described “basketball junkie.”

“I’ve been a student of the game,” she said.

“I was a point guard, so I was like the coach on the floor.”

As a coach, she will get to combine her background of working with young people and her love of the game.

“It’s a little different coaching,” she said.

“As a player you can make a difference, but as a coach you have to motivate the young ladies — see what their strengths and weaknesses are, how they play together, when to sub, when to be tough or not be tough.”

Ricks is an ideal fit for Wilson, as athletic director Mitch Gore has made a point of having coaches also work at the school during the day. He asked previous coach Eric White, who wasn’t part of the faculty, to step down so the school could hire someone full-time; Ricks is now dean of scholars.

“I have over 20-something years of working with at-risk youth in therapeutic programs — building healthy relationships,” said Ricks.

“Being in the building helps me build those See Wilson/Page 14

Blindsided: Gonzaga tackle earns honor

By BRIAN KAPUR Current Staff Writer

When it comes to football accolades, the spoils usually go to stars on offense — a big-armed quarterback, a speedy running back or a flashy wide receiver.

But that wasn’t the case for the coveted D.C. Gatorade Player of the Year. Instead, this year’s honor went to one of the “big uglies” — a term of endearment coaches use for their offensive linemen — who clear the way for those stars to shine.

Gonzaga senior Richie Petitbon was named the District’s winner on Dec. 4.

Only one other pure offensive lineman, Tristen Hoge of Idaho, won the state award this year. No pure offensive lineman has ever won the national award, though two athletes who played on both the offensive and defensive lines have captured the honor, including last year’s winner, Andrew Brown from Virginia.

This year’s national winner was quarterback Kyler Murray from Texas.

Petitbon, who is also the first blocker to win the prize in D.C., primarily played left tackle for the

Eagles; he was also used sparingly on the defensive line. At the high school level, many linemen are forced to play both ways full time.

“To win such a great award is unbelievable,” said Petitbon. “Usually it’s a quarterback, running back or receiver — the guys with the football. I’m really excited to win it as an offensive lineman. … Hopefully we can start a trend here in D.C. with the offensive linemen [winning it].”

For Gonzaga senior quarterback Nick Johns, who relied on Petitbon for protection against oncoming pass rushers, the offensive tackle was the perfect pick.

“Richie is a great player — he run blocks, pass blocks, he’s big and athletic,” Johns said. “You can’t ask for much more.”

The 6-foot-3-inch, 320-pound Petitbon helped Gonzaga to a 10-3 record and anchored an offense that averaged over 30 points and 330 yards per game.

The Gatorade honor also takes into account academics and other extracurricular activities. Petitbon’s credentials include a 3.16 GPA, fundraising efforts for cancer research and the Special Olympics, and vol-

unteer work with local youth football and lacrosse programs.

In football, Petitbon is a thirdgeneration star — his father and grandfather, with the same first and last names, both played in college and the NFL. But the Gatorade award was a rare family-first football accomplishment for the Gonzaga senior.

“It’s really cool. During our big Christmas party dinner I’ll have to talk it up a little bit,” said Petitbon, who will play for the top-ranked University of Alabama team next fall. “It’s really cool.”

Petitbon’s high school career isn’t quite over. The tackle will travel to the prestigious Under Armour All-America High School Football Game at Tropicana Field in Tampa Bay, Fla., on Jan. 1. He expects to be healthy again after missing his team’s final two games with a knee injury. And Petitbon has already suited up for the Eagles’ basketball squad this season.

“The doctor said just a little rest is the key,” he said. “Nothing serious, just a brace. All is good. I’m going to be 100 percent and back to normal. I’m back to the basketball team and getting my footwork down

Photo courtesy of Cory Royster

Gonzaga senior offensive tackle Richie Petitbon, left, helped pave the way for the Eagles’ potent offensive attack. for the football game.”

The Under Armour event is a chance Petitbon relishes — an opportunity earned by only about 100 of the thousands of high-school football players across the country.

“In an all-star game like that with

so many great players together, I’m excited to compete and impose my will against such great athletes and football players down there,” he said. “It’s going to be a really awesome experience, and I’m really excited about it.”

14 Wednesday, December 24, 2014

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The Current

Northwest Sports

St. Albans aims to contend in IAC hoops

By BRIAN KAPUR Current Staff Writer

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After last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rebuilding effort, the St. Albans boys basketball team comes into this season hoping to turn tough lessons into wins. And while the Bulldogs have just two seniors on their squad, they still believe the championship is in sight. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We still have a pretty young team, but having a year of maturity and growth and a year of varsity together has helped them,â&#x20AC;? said Bulldogs coach O.J. Johnson.

The biggest difference Johnson has noticed in the squad is a certain bravado and poise, which allows their talent to outshine inexperience. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re more aggressive,â&#x20AC;? said Johnson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team was very timid. They had the skill to play, but having that year under their belt got them to be more aggressive. We can just attack the rim and play with more confidence.â&#x20AC;?

For leadership, the Bulldogs will lean on their tri-captains: junior point guard William Howell, senior shooting guard Brandon Galloway and junior small forward George Walker.

Howell, who is especially pivotal for guidance in the point guard post, worked to strengthen his leadership skills during summer league play. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve improved on my leadership â&#x20AC;&#x201D; leading the guys, being more vocal on the court and trying to make my teammates better,â&#x20AC;? said Howell. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Of course Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m trying to score and contribute on the offensive end, but also on the defensive end.â&#x20AC;?

Meanwhile, Walker brings grit as he cleans up the boards for rebounds on both offensive and defensive

Brian Kapur/The Current

St. Albans took third place at the Bishop Walker tournament earlier this month.

glass despite often being mismatched against taller opponents.

Walker points to 6-foot-6-inch-tall sophomore forward Charles Snowden as a great partner in the post. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I just play with so much intensity,â&#x20AC;? said Walker. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Teaming with Snowden, I can just clean up inside.â&#x20AC;?

The team will also look to sophomore guard Spenser Adams, junior forward Areohn Harrison, senior guard Jackson Rumer, junior guard Gerald Smith and junior forward Grant Youngkin as key contributors.

One of the Bulldogsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; biggest improvements this year has been finding a way to edge out challenging teams. Galloway pointed to St.

Albansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 65-62 win over H.D. Woodson in the Bishop Walker Tournament on Dec. 13 as the type of game the squad wouldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve lost last year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We just learned to close out close games,â&#x20AC;? said the senior. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Games that were within two or three points down the stretch last year â&#x20AC;&#x201D; we would lose them. This year we are doing much better closing close games. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re boxing out better and not giving up secondchance points.â&#x20AC;?

Howell credits the playersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; commitment to honing their skills during summer league Amateur Athletic Union events as a key component to the improvement. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This year a lot of the guys have matured and played AAU ball and gotten more experience and confidence on the court,â&#x20AC;? said Howell. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a bright future. Over the course of the season we will improve and be where we want to be at the end of the season.â&#x20AC;?

As they build confidence and skills, the Bulldogs have their eyes on the Interscholastic Athletic Conference title. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We can be really good,â&#x20AC;? said Galloway. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think we have a good chance of getting to the IAC championship and winning. We just all have to play hard. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re only as strong as our weakest man â&#x20AC;&#x201D; we have to have a strong bench, and everyone has to contribute. With that, we can go as far as we want to go.â&#x20AC;?

The Bulldogs hope to build off their strong start when they travel to compete in Pensacola Catholic High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crusader Christmas Classic in Pensacola, Fla., from Saturday through Tuesday.

WILSON: Tigers hope new coach can spark title run From Page 13

relationships with the players, teachers and administrators. So when they are having difficulty, I can be there and they can reach out to me.â&#x20AC;?

Ricks takes over a team that has gone to the D.C. Interscholastic Athletic Association championship game for three straight years and is looking to get over the final hump to a crown. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re implementing a new program and a new system, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re having to adjust to me and my style,â&#x20AC;? said Ricks. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m very passionate. I played the game like that, and I coach like that.â&#x20AC;?

A defensive stud in her heyday, Ricks has worked to put an aggressive approach in place at Wilson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re just trying to develop our style,â&#x20AC;? said Ricks. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was a point guard, and defense was my forte â&#x20AC;&#x201D; defense wins championships. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m trying to instill in them: understanding that when you apply pressure, that keeps the other team on their heels. We have to push the ball and play within ourselves.â&#x20AC;?

The players have been quick to buy into Ricksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; coaching philosophies. â&#x20AC;&#x153;She brings discipline, hard work and dedication,â&#x20AC;? said junior guard Tytilayo Green. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We can win the league. If we keep fighting the way we are now and keep the pressure up, we can win.â&#x20AC;?

Ricks inherits a team with three returning players and a talented roster. The Tigers will lean on junior point

guard Tuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ziah Hall for on-court leadership. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s our nucleus and she keeps us together,â&#x20AC;? said Ricks. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aggressive and always eager to engage.

Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s adjusting to a new role as our floor general.â&#x20AC;?

Meanwhile, the Tigers rely on Green to light up the scoreboard. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s our leading scorer,â&#x20AC;? Ricks said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a returning starter, and she brings an added dimension because sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s [5-foot-9] but plays like a guard and sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a hard matchup for other teams. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m trying to help her improve as a defender. Her game is going to need to be well-rounded as she improves and college scouts look at her.â&#x20AC;?

For energy and a defensive leader, the team is looking to junior forward Angelica Chacon. â&#x20AC;&#x153;She has a lot of potential,â&#x20AC;? said Ricks. â&#x20AC;&#x153;She just made it into the starting lineup, so her confidence level has increased. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve increased some of her roles and as her confidence level rises, her game rises. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to be essential for us going into the season.â&#x20AC;?

The Tigers will compete at the D.C. Armory on Saturday at 6 p.m. as part of the National Title IX Classic tournament. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We will peak at midseason when we need to and we will keep instilling certain things,â&#x20AC;? said Ricks. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t where we need to be fundamentally. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m trying to teach the girls the positions that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re playing. The sky is the limit for this team â&#x20AC;&#x201D; if they continue to grow, who knows where it can take us.â&#x20AC;?

A Look at the Market in Northwest Washington

December 24, 2014 â&#x2013; Page 15

Colonial Village home combines natural setting, city access

A

newly listed property in Colonial Village makes a good match for city-dwellers with a penchant for nature,

ON THE MARKET kat luCERo

offering easy access not only to Rock Creek Park but also to several commercial areas.

The quiet residence sits along West Beach Drive, a winding road in D.C.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s northernmost tip. It follows a forested tributary trickling down to the main creek and attracts relatively few vehicles despite its quick connection to downtown Silver Spring and Bethesda, as well as easy access via Beach Drive and Rock Creek Parkway into the heart of the District.

The current owners say road cyclists are common sightings, especially during the weekends and holidays when the National Park Service closes the driveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s southern section for recreational users, who also include hikers connecting to nearby trails.

The 1940s home is set back from the road, allowing room for a lawn and cozy half-circle drive. It

has a traditional Colonial-style facade with a centered portico and multipane windows flanked by black shutters. A side driveway connecting to a rear attached garage runs alongside the house.

Recently, a rear addition has doubled the size of the 8132 West Beach Drive home, which is now a total of 4,300 square feet. With four bedrooms and three-and-ahalf baths, the house is offered for $1,174,900.

The main entry divides the front into two different rooms. A formal dining room takes up the southern portion, which includes the original fireplace adorned with a newer white frame. Complementary features here include a white beamed ceiling (with a classy chandelier) and contemporary yet simple floorto-ceiling shelving built into the west wall.

The white beamed ceilings continue on the other side in the family room. This area opens into to the kitchen, which features an attached roomy eat-in island, views of the backyard and access to the side driveway. Warm wood cabinetry complete with slim built-in wine storage keeps the area timeless, while high-end Miele stainless steel appliances â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

Photos courtesy of Evers & Co. Real Estate

This four-bedroom house on West Beach Drive is priced at $1,174,900. including the attached espresso machine and double convection stove â&#x20AC;&#x201D; modernize the area. Blue light pendants dangling from a rear slanted ceiling also add a contemporary touch.

The recently built rear addition includes a short hallway flanked with more white built-in shelves, a powder room, a quiet office with an attached bookshelf, and a twofloor atrium that includes the staircase.

The showpiece of the addition is the bright and spacious living room, which has a cottage-inspired vibe. A stone fireplace anchors the space, and the white beamed ceilings reappear here.

Twin French doors in the room open to the backyard. Designed to

Selling The Areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Finest Properties

Design & Style

Town of Chevy Chase. Newly renovated 5 BR, 5.5 BA classic. 4 levels of custom design. Kit w/quartz & top of the line appliances. Family rm w/French drs. Built-ins, 4 frpls. Patio. $2,050,000

Melissa Brown 202-469-2662 Beverly Nadel 202-236-7313

Design For Living

AU Park. Light filled renov. Colonial on quiet street. 3 BRs, 2.5 BAs. TS kit w/granite & SS. Sun rm, hrdwd flrs, frpl. Fin. LL w/rec rm. Deck, large flat yard, shed.

Metro nearby. $849,000.

Andrea Saturno-Sanjana  202-696-0701

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Show Stopper

Chevy Chase. Beautiful architecture, thoughtful design and an incredible kitchen, high end finishes  5 bedrooms, 4.5 baths and super amenities throughout. $1,895,000

Marina Krapiva-301-792-5681 Eric Murtagh- 301-652-8971

City Charm

Cleveland Park Super large 1 BR across from the Zoo & between 2 Metros. Lge kit, sep. dining area.

High ceilings, built-ins. Free laundry on every floor.

Shared pkg. Pet friendly. $359,000

Denny Horner  703-629-8455 Leyla Phelan  202-415-3845

welcome outdoor entertainment, this area features a flagstone patio, a remote-controlled awning system and attractive views of rolling hills and lawns.

Back inside and up to the second floor, a roomy landing separates the master suite from the three other sleeping quarters. The master offers a brick fireplace, views of the rear yard, a walk-in closet and a brand-new private bath.

A sunny walk-in closet with ample customized storage is just off the hall joining to the front bedrooms, which show off scenic views of West Beach Drive. This

section of the home also has a closet with a stacked laundry unit and two bathrooms.

Down to the lower level is a tandem garage located below the living room. The basement was recently transformed into a more homey recreation area complete with an adjacent exercise room and the main laundry room.

The four-bedroom, three-and-ahalf-bath house at 8132 West Beach Drive is offered for $1,174,900. For more information, contact Lee Goldstein of the Lee and Dina Team with Evers & Co. Real Estate at 202-744-8060 or lee@leeanddinateam.com.

Graceful Spaces

Kenwood. Updated & remodeled from top to bottom. Large home on quiet cul de sac backing to Kenwood Club. 6 BRs, 5 BAs. Two separate in-law suites. $1,795,000

Patricia Lore 301-908-1242

Cathedral Views

Cleveland Park. Rare top flr front unit w/great views. Old world charm in 2004 renov. bldg. High ceilings, hrdwd flrs. Pet friendly! Gated private park in rear w/dog run. Short stroll to shops & restaurants. $310,000

Bren Lizzio. 202-669-4999

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The Current

Northwest Real Estate GRAY: Mayor touts achievements From Page 3

and that the unemployment rate had fallen 3 percentage points.

The mayor also talked about investments his administration made in the growing technology sector, including establishing a tech corridor along Georgia Avenue from Shaw to Petworth. Noting his work with the federal government to redevelop the Walter Reed Army Medical Center site in Ward 4, he said the first construction is expected to begin next year: a new D.C. fire station to replace an outdated structure nearby.

On the subject of education, Gray argued that he ensured stability in the school system by appointing Kaya Henderson to succeed Michelle Rhee as chancellor. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I then worked with my education team to double down on the most successful elements of education reform like longer school days and early-childhood education,â&#x20AC;? the mayor said.

In addition, Gray noted that District students have made significant gains on standardized tests and that public school enrollment is higher than it has been in 27 years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are not yet where we need to be, but we are on the right track,â&#x20AC;? the mayor said.

One of the passages Gray omitted from his prepared remarks was a critique of the way his predecessor Adrian Fenty governed the city between 2007 and 2011.

Under the former mayor, Gray had planned to say, the Districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s citizens â&#x20AC;&#x153;had been given a false choice, told they had to choose between progress and inclusion,

between rapid forward movement and stopping to listen to our residents.â&#x20AC;?

Gray also planned to say, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Results are incredibly important â&#x20AC;&#x201D; but the way we govern is also important. Talking and listening to people, offering respect, building as much consensus as possible, and then powerfully moving forward

â??We are not yet where we need to be, but we are on the right track.â?&#x17E; â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Mayor Vincent Gray together is the way I have always operated â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the right way to govern.â&#x20AC;?

After Grayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s speech concluded on Wednesday, at-large D.C. Council member Anita Bonds told The Current that economic development and sound budgeting are the mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most memorable accomplishments in her mind.

Bonds, who chairs the D.C. Democratic Party, also expressed her belief that the scandal surrounding a shadow campaign on behalf of Grayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2010 mayoral bid wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ultimately make a difference for most District residents as they consider the mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s legacy. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t kill anyone, OK? He didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t steal anything from anybody,â&#x20AC;? Bonds said.

Asked about the possibility of Gray facing federal indictment at some point in the future, Bonds added, â&#x20AC;&#x153;People are indicted every day. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re guilty.â&#x20AC;?

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WILSON: High school establishes online archives From Page 1

and the general public can view hundreds of materials that date back to the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s opening in 1935.

Launched in early November, the archives project serves a broader purpose in showcasing studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; perspective of history during certain periods. An initiative supported financially by the Humanities Council of Washington, DC, the project also aims to the highlight the cultural changes that occurred in the city and the rest of the world over this time. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are issues discussed in the pages of the school newspapers and yearbooks. It gives you a sense of Washington, D.C., at the time and also student activities at the time,â&#x20AC;? said Arlene Balkansky, a 30-year librarian at the Library of Congress who now serves as the projectâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s humanities scholar.

To showcase those historical moments, the committee started with two exhibits: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Girls Athleticsâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wilson in Wartime.â&#x20AC;?

For example, before Title IX was enacted four decades ago, the girls swim club had 125 members in 1938 and some female students were competitive equestrians in 1965. And there were stark differences of stu-

dentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; response to World War II (they raised money to buy a jeep for the U.S. military) and to the Vietnam War (students protested it). â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re also dealing with events after integration, the immigrant population over time and all sorts of moments,â&#x20AC;? said Balkansky, the mother of two Wilson graduates now in their 20s.

Balkansky is also part of a sevenperson committee â&#x20AC;&#x201D; led by Lipscomb-Gardner â&#x20AC;&#x201D; thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s developing the digital archives into a large-scale initiative. Committee members are preparing to apply for another, bigger grant from the humanities council. (Earlier this year, the school applied for and received $2,500 from the organization.)

The project is also a schoolwide effort. After the refurbished Wilson building opened, parents came to help scan and catalog materials the librarian had collected. Wilsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parent Teacher Student Organization also matched the humanities council grant.

More parents, students, staff and even alumni have also been volunteering to catalog a variety of materials that has so far reached over 500 items, according to Elizabeth Levenson, Wilsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s librarian assistant and

a member of the project committee.

And thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more, given the stacks of decades-old bound copies of The Beacon, the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newspaper, sitting behind the counter at the two-floor library that Levenson showed off.

Balkansky said there are ways to improve the digitizing process as the project expands. That includes obtaining new technology to increase efficiency, as well as learning how to effectively implement PastPerfect, an online museum-quality archiving software program that they procured from the initial grants so that the image resolution is better.

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a move to preserve the original copies, especially the fragile ones, which requires better storage methods.

Since the launch of the archives project, news has reached Wilson alumni, including Shirley Heishman Joyce from the class of 1959. She sent the library staff a few materials that belonged to her two older siblings, including her sisterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1940 Wilson diploma, a copy of the menu from a â&#x20AC;&#x153;senior dinnerâ&#x20AC;? and a copy of The Beacon dated June 14, 1940. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I know we all had fond remembrance of Wilson,â&#x20AC;? Joyce wrote in a note.

MURAL: Artwork debuts From Page 1

community art that would brighten up a part of the neighborhood.â&#x20AC;?

Ferrierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new mural, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dedication to the Dedicated,â&#x20AC;? highlights achievements of neighborhood namesake Charles Carroll Glover. The artwork, featuring a â&#x20AC;&#x153;trompe lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeilâ&#x20AC;? technique to create an impression of three-dimensional stones, also includes a D.C. flag and a young boy and his dog.

Ferrier, who has completed a number of art projects in the neighborhood, had to wait for about a year before beginning the mural at W Place due to safety concerns in the area. In the interim, the D.C. Department of Transportation completed upgrades such as a new sidewalk, road resurfacing and fixes to the stairway itself. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The hardest part was having the patience to wait for everything to get fixed,â&#x20AC;? said Ferrier. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I had to wait and see how things were going to play out when all I wanted to do was paint on the wall.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;We didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want Jarrett decorating the steps when everything was in such poor condition,â&#x20AC;? said neighborhood commissioner Jackie Blumenthal. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We needed [the transportation agency] to pay attention the area, and the push of Jarrettâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grant really helped get attention focused on that part of Glover Park, which was very run-down and quite dangerous.â&#x20AC;?

Sheila Meehan, the current president of the Glover Park Citizens Association, said the transportation agencyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s improvements â&#x20AC;&#x201D; including a new stop sign â&#x20AC;&#x201D; â&#x20AC;&#x153;greatly facilitate using the cut-through, and the foot traffic has increased substantially.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Right now there are sidewalks where there were never sidewalks before,â&#x20AC;? said Blumenthal, describing other recent upgrades. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Soon some draining will be put in to prevent icing, which has always been a problem at that location.â&#x20AC;?

Ferrier said heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pleased with the changes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m really proud that my work has elevated that whole area,â&#x20AC;? said Ferrier. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My wife and now my family and I have lived here for 17 years, and now I was given

Brian Kapur/The Current

Fixes to the stairs accompanied the new mural by Glover Park resident Jarrett Ferrier.

the benefit of giving back.â&#x20AC;?

But the purpose of the mural isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t solely beautification, but also education. The piece focuses on the accomplishments of Glover, a 19th-century banker and philanthropist who was instrumental in establishing many D.C landmarks, including the Washington National Cathedral, Rock Creek Park and the National Zoo. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think there are plenty of other opportunities around the city where people can be educated with art,â&#x20AC;? Ferrier said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Look at Dupont Circle â&#x20AC;&#x201D; everybody knows Dupont Circle but nobody knows who Du Pont was. Or take the statues on most traffic circles. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m grateful that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re there, but I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know who they are. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not engaging. This piece is on a pedestrian level, and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m really proud that it helps educate.â&#x20AC;?

Meehan agreed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re living in an area named after this man, but we really donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know that much about him,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This mural has the added benefit of sending people to their iPads to look up Mr. Glover and to find out who he was, what he did, and how many things he did.â&#x20AC;?

This is not Ferrierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first work in Glover Park. The artist has painted murals at Rocklands Barbeque & Grilling Co. and Pearsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wine & Spirits, and he is behind the vintage-style â&#x20AC;&#x153;Welcome to Glover Parkâ&#x20AC;? signs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Over the years, Jarrett has become the unofficial artist-in-residence in Glover Park,â&#x20AC;? said Cohen.

The Current

DISPATCHES From Page 11 old part of the Decatur House, which is top secret so you will learn when you go there. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Louisa-Sophia Filmer, fifth-grader

Jewish Primary Day School of the Nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Capital

Our kindergarten class has been interested in the idea of telling and sharing secrets. We thought about â&#x20AC;&#x153;Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,â&#x20AC;? and that gave us the idea to make a time capsule for our class. We are burying a box and the box will hold the secrets we want others to see. We want people to open the box a long time from now; they will see the things we were talking about and learning about in our time.

To get our time capsule ready, we are working in committees. One committee will work to make a map to lead to our secrets box. We are researching current events and learning about our schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history; they are events that everybody in the world knows about. We will include them so people in the future will know what was happening when the time capsule was made.

The code committee is making a code, so people can open our box â&#x20AC;Ś but only when we want them to.

One morning, we were playing with mirrors and they reflected on the ceiling so it gave us the idea to use the mirrors to make it harder to read our code. You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see the code unless you use a flashlight!

One secret inside will be clay sculptures of each of us â&#x20AC;&#x201D; so people will know that these are our secrets. Come back to see whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inside before we bury it! â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Ayelet Magder, Daniela Margolis, Yarden Wilkenfeld and all of the other Gan Rimonim kindergartners

Lafayette Elementary

Recently, Lafayette Elementaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fourth- and fifth-graders went on a field trip to the historic Warner Theatre downtown to attend the Washington Balletâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s production of â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Nutcracker.â&#x20AC;? Some Lafayette students were in the production, but in several different casts. I interviewed fourth- and fifth-graders for their thoughts on the ballet. Two fifth-graders said that they liked the battle scene the best. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The funniest part was when the Rat King died from a shoe,â&#x20AC;? said Alec Bachle.

Another fifth-grader, Jesse Kenelly, thought the dancing was too long. Fourth-graders Ella Davis, Ellie Sander and Jordan Mongardi agreed that they liked the use of gymnastics and body language in the ballet. Fourth-graders Leah Braden, Seneca Volynet and Marina Robalino liked the features in the performance that werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just dancing; they liked the costumes, special effects and the props. Overall, Lafayette students enjoyed the field trip.

A unique feature about the ballet

is that the artistic director of the ballet, Septime Webber, includes both Washington Ballet professional dancers and Washington School of Ballet students in the production.

In October, hundreds of Washington School of Ballet students of different ages auditioned. If they got into a cast, they rehearsed constantly for their performances. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Lucy Sakura, fifth-grader

Maret School

We have reading buddies once a week with Ms. Tomasi-Carrâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s firstgrade class. As the third-grade buddies, we read to our younger buddies. It is an awesome way to meet the younger students! We pick out good books beforehand so we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t spend all day trying to find a good book and ruin the lesson. One of our favorite times is when we go to Mosquito Park. There is a forest and we always try to make a tree branch fort. It is really good for team building! We love saying â&#x20AC;&#x153;heave hoâ&#x20AC;? while we are working.

But itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not all about reading!

When we go to Ms. Tomasi-Carrâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s class, we get to do fun stuff like making a Venn diagram and playing with things the third-grade buddy likes to do, things the firstgrade buddy likes to do and the things that we both like to do. I like reading buddies and I think my buddy does too! â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Ellie Wallace, third-grader

Murch Elementary

Cookie decorating is very popular in Murch Elementary. It is one of the ways to best celebrate the holidays. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think that it was a lot of sugar for us, but we knew we could handle it, and we could!â&#x20AC;? says Ayan Yacob, from Ms. Davisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s third-grade class.

Ms. Liebermanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s third-grade class also made some of the fun cookies. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think that those were the best cookies I ever made!â&#x20AC;? says Elizabeth Radziwill. Ms. Suriâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s third-grade class also found the cookie decorating most entertaining. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I thought it was really fair, because everyone got the same amount of cookies to decorate,â&#x20AC;? says Rachel Kolko â&#x20AC;&#x201D; two apiece.

Lastly, Mr. Bradyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s third-grade class also did cookie decorating. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never done cookie making before, and I loved it,â&#x20AC;? says My Danh. This is one way Murchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s third grade celebrated the winter festivities. I hope Current readers have a happy holiday filled with treats, too! â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Hanna Birdsong, third-grader

Our Lady of Victory School

My first-grade class was so excited about our schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s play!

The play was called â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Fairy Tale Christmas Carol.â&#x20AC;? We practiced our song â&#x20AC;&#x153;Once Upon A Timeâ&#x20AC;? for the show.

We had to pick a costume and dress up like characters from fairy tales. I decided to be Little Red Riding Hood. My friends looked great in their costumes.

The dress rehearsal was fun, but on the night of the play, I was a lit-

Wednesday, December 24, 2014

tle nervous to sing in front of all of the OLV parents. We sang with the second-graders. All of the students did a great job! â&#x20AC;¨ In our first-grade class our teacher Miss Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Boyle asked us to write stories about the holiday. We wrote about how to build a snowman or how to decorate a Christmas tree. I wrote about decorating a tree. I helped decorate my tree at home. It has black and white ornaments. I make a special ornament each year to add to our tree. It is a beautiful tree!â&#x20AC;¨ Christmas is my favorite holiday. We celebrate Jesusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; birth. I like spending time with my family and giving gifts! â&#x20AC;¨ Happy holidays!â&#x20AC;¨ â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Paige D., first-grader

Ross Elementary

This week, we started off with our annual Fillmore Winter Music Concert. Those students taking musical instruments classes performed.

We had many field trips going on this week. First, our kindergarten, pre-K-4 and first grade saw a play called â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Gift of Nothing.â&#x20AC;?

This was held at the Kennedy Center. The pre-K and pre-K-4 classes saw a production of â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Snowy Day,â&#x20AC;? at the Atlas Performing Arts Center. The kindergarten class took a trip to the Ripley Center to see â&#x20AC;&#x153;Seasons of Light.â&#x20AC;? Grades three through five had a field trip to see â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Tiny Tempest,â&#x20AC;? at the Shakespeare Theatre. Grades four and give took a field trip to the Library of Congress. They had a guided tour, and learned a lot about the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history and origins of the collection.

We also had a Pajama Day. Every year we have a day or two

where we can wear our home pajamas to school. The students love this!

Our guidance counselor, Mr. Rogers, continues to help us with collecting toiletries for the Coalition for the Homeless. So far, so good.

Last, we presented our Learning Celebrations in kindergarten through fifth grade. Some of our families came to this event, where we talked about some of our favorite things we did in our classes.

We wish our readers happy holidays and a great 2015! â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Ross Elementary School community

School Without Walls High School

The School Without Walls high school Community Service Club held its annual shoebox drive for the needy of greater Washington this week. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Community Service wanted to do something to give back to the community. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something that we did last year.

They wanted to do something to contribute to people that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have much for the holiday,â&#x20AC;? said the sponsor of the club, Carolyn Schulz. The goal is to donate more shoeboxes full of necessities to the needy than they did last year, or at least 50 shoeboxes. Ms. Schulz also sponsors the Best Buddies Program at school, a program where somebody with physical and/or mental disabilities can meet somebody to spend time with when they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t normally have to ability to do so. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Michael Edgell, ninth-grader

Sheridan School

Every year at Sheridan School the second grade collects Hallow-

17

een candy for the kids and other people who live in Hearts and Homes for Youth group houses.

They are kind of like homeless people who have no homes of their own. They arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t as lucky as we are and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get to go trick-ortreating like we do.

Before Halloween the second grade put on an assembly and told the whole school about the drive and what to do. A person from Hearts and Homes came to talk to us about the kids who the candy is for.

We put out decorated boxes for Sheridan kids to put their extra candy in. After a week of collecting candy we got together with our fifth-grade buddies to make cards.

We drew smiley faces and flowers.

You could say whatever you wanted on the card, like â&#x20AC;&#x153;Happy Days,â&#x20AC;? or â&#x20AC;&#x153;Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re A Star.â&#x20AC;? Or you could draw something colorful to make them feel glad and included. The cards go in the bags of candy that we are going to send them before the winter holidays to bring them some joy.

Then the second grade did all the work of decorating the bags and stuffing them with candy and a card. We want to help to bring cheer to their lives.

This year we made about 200 bags. It was really fun. The kids will be pretty happy to see the candy and the decorations on the bags and cards. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Kendall Peterson and Cooper Schirmeier, second-graders

Washington International School

After my eighth-grade class from Washington International See Dispatches/Page 23

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Wednesday, Dec. 024

Wednesday december 24 Concerts ■ The Beltway Brass Quintet will perform original arrangements characterized by 20th-century jazz harmonies and stylings. Noon. Free. Millennium Stage, Kennedy Center. 202-467-4600.

■ The St. Stephen’s Choir, soloists, strings, harp and organ will perform “The Christmas Oratorio” by Saint-Saëns as a prelude to the Christmas Eve Mass. 5:45 p.m. Free. St. Stephen Martyr Church, 2436 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. 202-7850982.

■ The Peoples Congregational United Church of Christ will present the 17th annual Christmas Eve Jazz Vespers, featuring the Davey Yarborough Ensemble with Esther Williams, the Washington Jazz Arts Institute Saxophone Ensemble and guest artist Marcus Johnson. 7 p.m. Free.

Peoples Congregational United Church of Christ, 4704 13th St. NW. 202-723-3953.

■ International opera star Alessandra Marc will perform seasonal music and carols at a Christmas Eve concert. 8 p.m.

Free; reservations required. Universalist National Memorial Church, 1810 16th St. NW. universalist.org/opera.

Film ■ The Washington DC Jewish Community Center’s “Chinese Food and a Movie” event will feature Danièle Thompson’s 2013 film “It Happened in Saint-Tropez.”

7:30 to 9:30 p.m. $12.50. Washington DC Jewish Community Center, 1529 16th St. NW. washingtondcjcc.org.

Services ■ St. John’s Episcopal Church, Lafayette Square, will present the Pageant and Choral Eucharist with choir, at 5 p.m.; and the Festival Choral Eucharist with orchestra, at 7:30 and 11 p.m. Free. 16th and H streets NW. 202-347-8766.

■ The Choir of the Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart will perform a choral prelude, and the Rev. Walter Rossi will lead a children’s Mass with pageant, at 5 p.m.; a choir will offer choral meditations on the Nativity, at 10 p.m.; and Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò, the apostolic nuncio to the United States, will lead the Solemn Vigil Mass of Christmas Eve, at 10:30 p.m. Free. Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, 400 Michigan Ave. NE. 202-526-8300.

■ The Institute for Spiritual Develop-

&

The Current

Events Entertainment ment will host a Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, featuring an interpretation of the traditional Nativity story told as a spiritual journey. 7:30 p.m. Free. Institute for Spiritual Development, 5419 Sherier Place NW. isd-dc.org.

■ Cardinal Donald Wuerl will celebrate the Solemn Mass of Christmas after the Schola Cantorum and Festival Singers present a musical prelude. 9:15 p.m.

Free. Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle, 1725 Rhode Island Ave. NW. 202347-3215.

■ The Washington National Cathedral will celebrate Christmas Eve with a Festival Holy Eucharist service. 10 p.m. Free; passes required. Washington National Cathedral, Massachusetts and Wisconsin avenues NW. 202-537-6200.

Special events ■ The Washington Harbour ice rink will offer public skating. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. $8 to $10. Washington Harbour, 3000 K St. NW. 202-706-7666. Holiday hours for the upcoming week are Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday and Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

■ “ZooLights” will feature environmentally friendly light displays, a model train exhibit, two 150-foot-long “snow tubing” tracks, the Conservation Carousel and live entertainment. 5 to 9 p.m. Free admission. National Zoo, 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW. 202-633-4470. The event will repeat daily through Jan. 1 (except Dec. 24, 25 and 31).

Thursday, Dec. 025

Thursday december 25 Concerts ■ Washington National Cathedral organists Christopher Betts and Benjamin Straley will perform a Christmas Day recital with soprano Rosa Lamoreaux (shown).

5:15 p.m. $10 suggested donation.

Washington National Cathedral, Massachusetts and Wisconsin avenues NW. 202-537-6200.

■ The 16th All-Star Christmas Day Jam will feature host/vibraphonist Chuck Redd, drummer Lenny Robinson, trumpeter Tom Williams, bassist James King and vocalist Delores Williams. 6 p.m. Free.

Millennium Stage, Kennedy Center. 202467-4600.

Services ■ The Washington National Cathedral will celebrate Christmas with a Festival Holy Eucharist service, at 11 a.m.; and soloist Rosa Lamoreaux will perform at the Christmas Day Service of Lessons and Carols, at 4 p.m. Free. Washington National Cathedral, Massachusetts and Wisconsin avenues NW. 202-537-6200.

■ Cardinal Donald Wuerl, archbishop of Washington, will lead the Solemn Christmas Day Mass, at noon; and Cardinal Theodore McCarrick, archbishop emeritus of Washington, will lead the Spanish-language Christmas Day Mass, at 2:30 p.m. Free. Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, 400 Michigan Ave. NE. 202-526-8300.

Special event ■ The Washington DC Jewish Community Center will hold its 28th annual Day of Service, featuring events at

Keegan stages ‘Irish Carol’

The Keegan Theatre will present its annual holiday show “An Irish Carol” Dec. 26 through 28 at the Washington DC Jewish Community Center’s Goldman Theater.

Set in a modern Dublin pub, Matthew Keenan’s play is an

On stage

homage to the Dickens classic. “An Irish Carol” follows one evening in the life of David, a wealthy pub owner who has lost touch with his own humanity in the interest of self-protection and material success. But on this Christmas Eve, his life may change forever.

Tickets cost $35 to $75, with proceeds going to the Keegan Theatre’s capital campaign. The Washington DC Jewish Community Center is located at 1529 16th St. NW. 703892-0202; keegantheatre.com.

■ The Washington Ballet will present “The Nutcracker” through Dec. 28 at the Warner Theatre.

Set in 1882 Georgetown, Septime Webre’s one-of-a-kind production stars George Washington as the heroic Nutcracker and King George III as the villainous Rat King.

Tickets cost $42 to $114. Warner Theatre is located at 513 13th St. NW. 202-3977328; washingtonballet.org.

■ The D.C. premiere of the Tony Award-winning revival of “Pippin” will continue through Jan. 4 at the National Theatre.

A young prince goes on a death-defying journey to find meaning in his existence. Will he choose a happy but simLucie Arnaz stars in ple life? Or will he risk every“Pippin” at the thing for a singular flash of glory?

National Theatre.

Tickets start at $48. The National Theatre is located at 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. 800-514-3849; thenationaldc.com.

■ Pointless Theatre will present “A Very Pointless Holiday Spectacular: The Annual North Pole Talent Show” through Jan. 3 in the Mead Theatre Lab at Flashpoint.

On Christmas Eve, with Santa off to deliver presents, the elves and Mrs. Claus throw a huge party and talent show to celebrate their one night off a year. The bawdy, rollicking showcase ranges from nice to naughty. dozens of sites throughout the area.

Various times. $20 fee; registration required. washingtondcjcc.org/d25.

Friday, Dec. 026 Friday december 26 Children’s programs ■ The Cleveland Park Library will host a special “Music and Story Time” program for the first day of Kwanzaa. 10:30 a.m.

Free. Cleveland Park Library, 3310 Connecticut Ave. NW. 202-282-3080.

■ A “Kwanzaa! Kwanzaa!” program for children and families will feature arts, crafts and music, with entertainment by Nabeeh Bilal and his Caribbean puppet Winston from the children’s book “Callaloo, a Jazz Folktale.” 10:30 a.m. to noon. Free; reservations required. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Place SE. 202-633-4844.

Concerts ■ The Richmond-based gospel group Family of Praise will perform gospel and holiday-related music. 6 p.m. Free. Millennium Stage, Kennedy Center. 202-4674600.

■ The Yeonas Brothers Band will perform Americana roots music. 7:30 p.m.

Free. Gypsy Sally’s Vinyl Lounge, 3401 K St. NW. gypsysallys.com.

■ Guitarist Max Light and his jazz trio will perform. 8 and 10 p.m. $15. Twins

Keegan Theatre will stage a limited five-show run of “An Irish Carol” through Dec. 28.

Tickets cost $18 to $25. The theater is located at 916 G St. NW. pointlesstheatre.com.

■ Canada’s acclaimed Old Trout Puppet Workshop will bring “Famous Puppet Death Scenes” to the Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company through Jan. 4.

Curated and narrated by puppet Nathaniel Tweak, the show features a collection of 22 grisly snippets from puppet dramas such as “The Ballad of Edward Grue” by Samuel Groanswallow and “The Feverish Heart” by Nordo Frot.

Tickets start at $35. The theater is located at 641 D St. NW. 202-393-3939; woollymammoth.net.

■ Studio 2ndStage will present Irish playwright Mark O’Rowe’s linguistic drama “Terminus” through Jan. 4 in Stage 4 at the Studio Theatre.

Through a series of interconnected monologues, O’Rowe takes a dizzying plunge through three characters’ quietest fears and most intimate desires.

Tickets cost $30 to $35. The Studio Theatre is located at 1501 14th St. NW. 202-232-3300; studiotheatre.org.

■ The Kennedy Center will host a national tour of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” through Jan. 4 in the Opera House.

The Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber musical chronicles the trials and triumphs of Israel’s favorite son. The production features married Broadway stars and “American Idol” sensations Diana DeGarmo and Ace Young.

Tickets cost $25 to $155. 202-467-4600; kennedy-center. org.

■ Theater Alliance will stage Langston Hughes’ “Black Nativity” through Jan. 4 at the Anacostia Playhouse.

This retelling of the Christmas story from an Afro-centric perspective is infused with rich gospel, blues, funk, jazz and dance.

Tickets cost $10 to $35. The theater is located at 2020 Shannon Place SE. 202-241-2539; theateralliance.com.

Jazz, 1344 U St. NW. twinsjazz.com. The concert will repeat Saturday at 8 p.m.

■ Splintered Sunlight will perform a Grateful Dead tribute show. 9 p.m. $13 to $15. Gypsy Sally’s, 3401 K St. NW. gypsysallys.com.

Film ■ The Georgetown Library’s weekly film series will feature a selection about new beginnings and second changes.

2:30 p.m. Free. Georgetown Library, 3260 R St. NW. 202-727-0232.

Performance ■ The Washington Improv Theater’s “Seasonal Disorder” will feature holidaythemed improv. 8 p.m. $12 to $30.

Source, 1835 14th St. NW. witdc.org.

Another performance will take place Saturday at 8 p.m. with a different lineup.

Tours ■ Horticulturist Bill Johnson will lead a tour on “Gardener’s Focus: Bones of the Winter Garden.” 11 to 11:30 a.m. Included in suggested donation of $5 to 15 for museum admission; tickets distributed at 10 a.m. Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens, 4155 Linnean Ave. NW. 202686-5807. The tour will repeat Saturday and Tuesday at 11 a.m.

■ A docent will give a tour of the exhibit “Richard Estes’ Rebellion.” 1:15 to

2:15 p.m. Free. Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th and G streets NW. 202633-1000. The tour will repeat Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday at 1:15 p.m.

■ A docent will give a tour of the exhibit “The Singing and the Silence: Birds in Contemporary Art.” 3 to 4 p.m.

Free. Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th and G streets NW. 202-633-1000.

The tour will repeat Tuesday and Wednesday at 3 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 027

Saturday december 27 Children’s programs ■ A park ranger will lead a planetarium program about the season’s brightest stars, planets and constellations (for ages 5 and older). 1 to 1:45 p.m. Free. Rock Creek Nature Center, 5200 Glover Road NW. 202-895-6070. The program will repeat Sunday at 1 p.m.

■ Children will hear a story about artist Red Grooms and then create a special piece of art inspired by his life and accomplishments. 1 to 4 p.m. Free.

National Portrait Gallery, 8th and F streets NW. 202-633-1000. The program will repeat Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m.

■ A park ranger will lead a planetarium program about distant galaxies, nebulas and other deep space objects (for ages 7 and older). 4 to 4:45 p.m. Free.

See Events/Page 19

Continued From Page 18 Rock Creek Nature Center, 5200 Glover Road NW. 202-895-6070. The program will repeat Sunday at 4 p.m.

Classes â&#x2013; The Mount Pleasant Library will present â&#x20AC;&#x153;Saturday Morning Yoga.â&#x20AC;? 10 a.m.

Free. Mount Pleasant Library, 3160 16th St. NW. 202-671-3122. â&#x2013; Yoga Activist will present a class for beginners. 11 a.m. Free. Petworth Library, 4200 Kansas Ave. NW. 202-243-1188.

Concert â&#x2013; The Cactus Liquors and the Mellish will perform. 9 p.m. $12 to $15. Gypsy Sallyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, 3401 K St. NW. gypsysallys.com.

Film â&#x2013; The Mount Pleasant Library will present Bryan Singerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2014 film â&#x20AC;&#x153;X-Men: Days of Future Past,â&#x20AC;? starring Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellan, Hugh Jackman, Jennifer Lawrence and Halle Berry. 2 p.m.

Free. Mount Pleasant Library, 3160 16th St. NW. 202-671-3122.

Performances â&#x2013; The Anacostia Community Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Kwanzaa! Kwanzaa!â&#x20AC;? celebration will feature a performance by the KanKouran West African Dance Company. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Free; reservations required. Fort Stanton Recreation Center, 1812 Erie St. SE. 202633-4844. â&#x2013; The Dance Institute of Washington will present â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Spirit of Kwanzaa.â&#x20AC;? 4 and 7 p.m. $10; free for ages 5 and younger. Dance Institute of Washington, 3400 14th St. NW. 202-371-9656. â&#x2013; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Holiday Vaudevilleâ&#x20AC;? will feature Cajun cellist Sean Grissom, klezmer quartet the Alexandria Kleztet and comedian/ variety entertainer Will Shaw. 6 p.m. Free.

Millennium Stage, Kennedy Center. 202467-4600. The performance will repeat Sunday at 6 p.m. â&#x2013; The â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chinese Menuâ&#x20AC;? comedy show will feature an all-star mash-up with improvisers from the District, Baltimore, New York, Chicago and Los Angeles.

7:30, 9:30 and 11:30 p.m. $10. DC Arts Center, 2438 18th St. NW. brownpapertickets.com/event/1053996.

Special events â&#x2013; The Washington Harbour ice skating rink will hold a weekly â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cartoon Skateâ&#x20AC;? event. 10 a.m. to noon. $9 to $10. Washington Harbour, 3000 K St. NW. 202-7067666. â&#x2013; The Dance Institute of Washington will present community master classes for teens and adults in modern, African, hiphop and lyrical/street jazz dance. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free; reservations required.

Dance Institute of Washington, 3400 14th St. NW. 202-371-9656. â&#x2013; The Washington Harbour ice rink will hold a weekly â&#x20AC;&#x153;Rock n Skateâ&#x20AC;? event. 8 to 10 p.m. $9 to $10. Washington Harbour, 3000 K St. NW. 202-706-7666.

&

The Current

Wednesday, December 24, 2014

Events Entertainment time in D.C. 10 a.m. $20. Meet at the statue of Andrew Jackson in Lafayette Square, 16th and H streets NW. 202-3415208.

Sunday, Dec. 028

Sunday december 28 Concerts â&#x2013; The Ensemble Galilei will perform music by Marais, Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Carolan and other composers. 6:30 p.m.

Free. West Garden Court, National Gallery of Art, 4th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. 202-737-4215. â&#x2013; Dahlak Restaurant will present its weekly â&#x20AC;&#x153;DC Jazz Jamâ&#x20AC;? session. 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Free. 1771 U St. NW. 202-5279522. â&#x2013; Jazz vocalist and flutist Alex Hamburger will perform. 8 and 10 p.m. $10.

Twins Jazz, 1344 U St. NW. twinsjazz.com.

Film â&#x2013; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Athens Todayâ&#x20AC;? will feature Thanos Anastopoulosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 2012 film â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Daughter.â&#x20AC;?

4:30 p.m. Free. West Building Lecture Hall, National Gallery of Art, 4th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. 202-7374215.

Monday, Dec. 029

Monday december 29 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s programs â&#x2013; A â&#x20AC;&#x153;Kwanzaa! Kwanzaa!â&#x20AC;? program for children and families will feature arts and crafts workshops. 10:30 a.m. to noon.

Free; reservations required. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Place SE. 202-633-4844. â&#x2013; Children will hear a story about artist Red Grooms and then create pop-ups like those he made. 1 to 4 p.m. Free.

National Portrait Gallery, 8th and F streets NW. 202-633-1000.

Classes and workshops â&#x2013; Yoga District instructor Smita Kumar will lead a weekly class. 12:30 p.m. Free; registration required. West End Interim Library, 2522 Virginia Ave. NW. 202-7248698. â&#x2013; The group Yoga Activist will present a weekly yoga class. 7 p.m. Free. Cleveland Park Library, 3310 Connecticut Ave. NW. 202-282-3080.

Discussion â&#x2013; National Gallery of Art lecturer Eric Denker will discuss â&#x20AC;&#x153;Captain Linnaeus Tripe: Photographer of India and Burma, 1852-1860.â&#x20AC;? Noon. Free. West Building Rotunda, National Gallery of Art, 4th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. 202737-4215. The gallery talk will repeat Tuesday at noon.

Sporting event â&#x2013; The Washington Wizards will play the Boston Celtics. 7 p.m. $25 to $426.

Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. 800-7453000.

Film â&#x2013; The Watha T. Daniel/Shaw Library will host a screening of the 2013 animated film â&#x20AC;&#x153;Frozen.â&#x20AC;? 6:30 p.m. Free.

Watha T. Daniel/Shaw Library, 1630 7th St. NW. 202727-1288.

Walk â&#x2013; Writer Rocco Zappone will present â&#x20AC;&#x153;Walking Tour as Personal Essay,â&#x20AC;? a look at downtown Washington filled with his reminiscences and impressions of a life-

Performance â&#x2013; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Zan McLeodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Celtic Holidayâ&#x20AC;? will feature traditional Irish music and stepdancing performed by guitarist Zan McLeod, the group Skylark and the Culkin

19

A look at African diaspora

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Conversations: African and African American Artworks in Dialogue,â&#x20AC;? featuring some 100 African and African diaspora works, opened recently at the National Museum of African Art. Bringing together the collections of the museum and of

On exhibit

Camille O. and William H. Cosby Jr., the show will continue through early 2016.

Located at 950 Independence Ave. SW, the museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 202-633-4600. â&#x2013; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Greenings,â&#x20AC;? highlighting model trains and 33 lighthouses, opened recently at the U.S. Botanic Garden, where it will continue through Jan. 4.

Located at 100 Maryland Ave. SW, the Botanic Garden is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 202-225-8333. â&#x2013; The National Portrait Gallery has installed a portrait of Comedy Central host Stephen Colbert created for the final season of his show â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Colbert Report.â&#x20AC;? The display â&#x20AC;&#x201D; located on the second floor above a water fountain and between the bathrooms â&#x20AC;&#x201D; will continue through April 19.

Located at 8th and F streets NW, the gallery is open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. 202-633-1000.

A painting of Stephen â&#x2013; The Washington Informerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Colbert is on display â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fifty 50 Lensâ&#x20AC;? photo exhibit at the National opened Monday at the Pepco Edison Place GalPortrait Gallery. lery, where it will continue through Dec. 30. The display documents D.C. history through the lenses of the newspaperâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s photographers over the past 50 years.

Located at 702 8th St. NW, the gallery is open Monday Irish Dancers. 6 p.m. Free. Millennium Stage, Kennedy Center. 202-467-4600.

Special events â&#x2013; Tortilla Coast will host a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Paint Niteâ&#x20AC;? with paint, brushes and canvas provided.

7 to 9 p.m. $45. Tortilla Coast, 1460 P St. NW. paintnite.com. â&#x2013; â&#x20AC;&#x153;WWE Presents Monday Night RAWâ&#x20AC;? will feature stars such as John Cena, Seth Rollins, Sheamus and Rusev. 7:30 p.m. $20 to $95. Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. 800-745-3000.

Henry Ossawa Tannerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s painting â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Thankful Poor,â&#x20AC;? part of the Cosby Collection, is part of an exhibit at the National Museum of African Art. through Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. 202-872-3396. â&#x2013; Hemphill recently opened an exhibit of paintings-in-progress by artist Steven Cushner in the raw commercial space at the corner of 17th and L streets NW and will continue it through Dec. 31. The works may be viewed through the windows by passersby at night, since the artist keeps the window shades closed during the day while working on the paintings.

202-234-5601. â&#x2013; Dumbarton Oaks recently began showing a work of sound sculpture by composer Hugh Livingston in its gardens. Titled â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Pool of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Bamboo Counterpoint,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? the sculpture consists of 12 organ-like pipes that create a soundscape of re-mixed recordings made in the garden and augmented by newly composed material. The work will remain in place throughout the 2014-15 season.

Located at 1703 32nd St. NW, the gardens are open daily from 2 to 6 p.m. 202-339-6401. â&#x2013; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Photo Camp: A Decade of Storytelling,â&#x20AC;? highlighting images by students who have participated in the 67 National Geographic Photo Camp workshops to date, opened last week at the National Geographic Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s M Street Gallery, where it will continue through May free of charge.

Located at 1145 17th St. NW, the museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 202-857-7588.

â&#x2013; Gypsy Sallyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Vinyl Lounge will host its weekly open mic show. 8 p.m. Free.

Gypsy Sallyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Vinyl Lounge, 3401 K St. NW. gypsysallys.com. â&#x2013; Jazz saxophonist Marty Nau will perform. 8 and 10 p.m. $10. Twins Jazz, 1344 U St. NW. twinsjazz.com.

Discussion â&#x2013; National Gallery of Art lecturer Bela Demeter will discuss â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dragons in Art.â&#x20AC;? 1

p.m. Free. West Building Rotunda, National Gallery of Art, 4th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. 202-737-4215.

Performances â&#x2013; The Washington Improv Theaterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Harold Nightâ&#x20AC;? will feature performances

by Fisticuffs and Knife Club, followed by an improv jam. 9 p.m. By donation.

Source, 1835 14th St. NW. witdc.org.

See Events/Page 23

Tuesday, Dec. 030

Tuesday december 30 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s program â&#x2013; Children will hear a story about artist Andy Warhol and then create â&#x20AC;&#x153;fauxâ&#x20AC;? screen prints. 1 to 4 p.m. Free. National Portrait Gallery, 8th and F streets NW. 202-633-1000.

Class â&#x2013; Yoga teacher and therapist Heather Ferris will lead a yoga class. Noon. Free.

Watha T. Daniel/Shaw Library, 1630 7th St. NW. 202-727-1288.

Concerts â&#x2013; Sweet Heaven Kings, an acclaimed 16-member gospel blues and percussion band from Anacostia, will perform a joyful holiday program. 6 p.m. Free. Millennium Stage, Kennedy Center. 202-467-4600. â&#x2013; A holiday music concert series will feature the Russian folk ensemble Samovar. 6 to 8 p.m. Free. Conservatory Garden Court, U.S. Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Ave. SW. 202-225-8333.

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Wednesday, December 24, 2014

Events Entertainment

Continued From Page 19 ■ Busboys and Poets will present an open mic poetry night hosted by Patrick Washington. 9 to 11 p.m. $5. Langston Room, Busboys and Poets, 2021 14th St. NW. 202-387-7638.

Special event ■ A family day program will offer visitors a chance to view the “Making Their Mark” exhibit and then try their hand at make-and-take projects, hands-on activities, games and more. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Free. National Archives Building, Constitution Avenue between 7th and 9th streets NW. 202-357-5000.

Wednesday, Dec. 031 Wednesday december 31 Concerts ■ The Brooklyn-based Williamsburg Salsa Orchestra will perform indie pop tunes. 6 p.m. Free. Millennium Stage, Kennedy Center. 202-467-4600.

■ A New Year’s Eve concert will feature local musicians Rosa Lamoreaux, J. Reilly Lewis, Ann Colgrove, Judy Dodge, John Hurd and Diane Heath performing “Music From Bach Through the American Songbook.” 6 p.m. $20 donation suggested; $5 for students. St. Columbia’s Episcopal Church, 4201 Albemarle St. NW. 202-363-4119.

■ Twins Jazz will present a New Year’s Eve dinner and concert with jazz pianist Larry Willis and his quartet. 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. $85. Twins Jazz, 1344 U St. NW. twinsjazz.com.

■ “New Year’s Eve at the Kennedy Center” will feature the Grammy-winning band Ozomatli and members of the National Symphony Orchestra. 8:30 p.m. $55 to $120. Concert Hall, Kennedy Center. 202-467-4600.

■ “An Americana New Year’s Eve” will feature Yarn, Nora Jane Struthers & the Party Line, and South Rail. 8:30 p.m. $45 to $60. Gypsy Sally’s, 3401 K St. NW. gypsysallys.com.

Performance ■ The Kennedy Center will host its New Year’s Eve Grand Foyer Party with the Williamsburg Salsa Orchestra and the Craig Gildner Big Band. 10:30 p.m. Free with Dec. 31 evening performance tickets or a Roof Terrace Restaurant receipt from that evening. Grand Foyer, Kennedy Center. 202-467-4600.

Special events ■ “Noon Yards Eve,” a family-friendly New Year’s Eve festival, will feature moon bounces, games, craft stations, face painting, stilt walkers, magicians, kids’ performers and a balloon drop at noon.

10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free. Yards Park, 355 Water St. SE. theyardsdc.com.

■ A family-friendly party with instructor Pleasance Silicki will ring in the new year by wiggling, jumping and dancing the afternoon way while exploring playful ageappropriate partner poses (for families with children up to 3 years old). 4 to 5 p.m. $30 per family. lil omm yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave. NW. 202-248-6304.

■ A family-friendly pizza party with instructor Pleasance Silicki will ring in the new year with postures for the whole family, including appropriate variations to accommodate everyone (for families with children ages 3 and older). 5:30 to 7 p.m. $50 per family. lil omm yoga, 4708 Wisconsin Ave. NW. 202-248-6304.

■ “Downtown Countdown Washington D.C.” will feature an open bar, dinner buffets and performances by comedians, DJs and the bands Third Eye Blind and Delta Rae. 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. $139 to $225.

Washington Hilton, 1919 Connecticut Ave. NW. downtowncountdown.net.

■ President Lincoln’s Cottage at the Soldiers’ Home will host “Freedom’s Eve,” celebrating the anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation with a dessert buffet, drinks and live music. 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. $100; reservations required.

President Lincoln’s Cottage, Upshur Street and Rock Creek Church Road NW. 202-829-0436, ext. 31228.

■ ArtJamz will host its third annual New Year’s Eve Glitter Ball, featuring art materials, a canvas, three hours of studio time, hors d’oeuvres and a midnight Champagne toast. 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. $65 to $75; $95 to $105 per couple. ArtJamz Dupont Studio, 1728 Connecticut Ave. NW. artjamznyeglitterball.evenbrite.com.

Thursday, Jan. 01

Thursday january 1 Concert ■ The Grandsons will perform a mix of rockabilly, swing, jazz and honky tonk country. 6 p.m. Free. Millennium Stage, Kennedy Center. 202-467-4600.

Sporting event ■ The Washington Capitals will play the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2015

DISPATCHES From Page 17 School saw a play about a 15-year-old boy with autism, I wrote a critique in the form of a letter to the set designer: Dear Bunny Christie, When most people think of a box, they think of being trapped. They think of being scared, anxious, alone. You made a box feel the total opposite.

I was expecting to see a lawn or a house reflecting the opening of “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.” Instead there was just a huge, luminous box without its front face. At first I thought it was space since the box was black and on a couple of the walls “space” was written. I went on wondering if maybe the box could represent Christopher’s (the main character’s) mind. Everything was very organized with grid lines drawn all around the box and all the props were neatly placed. Just like Christopher’s mind.

Eventually I realized that the box didn’t represent just Christopher’s mind but also everything around him. The box could turn into whatever he wanted it to

23

Winter Classic. 1 p.m. $79 to $349.

Nationals Park, 1500 South Capitol St. SE. ticketmaster.com.

Friday, Jan. 02

Friday january 2

Class ■ The Capitol Hill Arts Workshop will hold a drop-in “Working From the Figure” session for artists to work on drawings or paintings in front of a live model. 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. $20. Capitol Hill Arts Workshop, 545 7th St. SE. 202-547-6839.

Concerts ■ Six-string electric cellist Wytold, a Strathmore artist-in-residence, will perform original compositions accompanied by double bass, violin/viola, flute/sax and world percussion. 6 p.m. Free. Millennium Stage, Kennedy Center. 202-467-4600.

■ Pianist Larry Willis and his jazz quartet will perform. 8 and 10 p.m. $15. Twins Jazz, 1344 U St. NW. twinsjazz.com. The concert will repeat Saturday at 8 p.m.

■ The Dub City Renegades, an eightpiece reggae band, will present a CD release show. 9 p.m. $12 to $15. Gypsy Sally’s, 3401 K St. NW. gypsysallys.com.

Discussion ■ National Gallery of Art lecturer Eric Denker will discuss “Degas and Monotype.” Noon. Free. West Building Rotunda, National Gallery of Art, 4th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. 202-737-4215.

The talk will repeat Jan. 3 and 4 at noon.

Performance ■ Beny Blaq will host “Live! From Busboys” open mic and talent showcase. 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. $5. Langston Room, Busboys and Poets, 2021 14th St. NW. 202387-7638.

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.

be: house, school, lawn, police station, train station, et cetera. Not only was it easy for the audience to understand what was happening where, but it also made the audience understand Christopher’s willingness to open up rather than feel trapped in his smart, closed mind. I therefore wanted to personally congratulate you on a fantastic set for an amazing show.

— Annarosa Zampaglione, eighth-grader

Washington Latin Public Charter School

Over the recent holiday of Thanksgiving, Washington Latin’s League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) collaborated with the Global Service Elective, another school club, in order to create a schoolwide food drive for various canned goods.

The food drive officially began Nov. 12 and ended on Nov. 21. LULAC and the Global Service Elective found success, collecting well over 100 cans of goods.

These goods were taken to Mary’s Center for Maternal and Child Care on Nov. 21. A few Latin students from the clubs went back to the center that Sunday to help package the food into meals. Mary’s Center then distributed the food that we raised to those in need of it.

— Alex Davis, 10th-grader

24 Wednesday, december 24, 2014

The currenT

ACTIVE LISTINGS!

ACTIVE LISTING!

Chevy Chase DC, 3823 Legation St NW, $1,135,000. This beguiling 1920’s home, 5 blocks from F’ship Hts Metro, has been expanded and awaits your final touches… from the picturebook wrap-around porch to the soaring ceilings and grand rooms on the main level, this house has loads of appeal! Great kitchen with breakfast room and restauranttype appliances, nice 1st-floor family room & powder room; 4+BR/2BA up plus private rear patio and off-street parking, too.

Read more on our website.

Chevy Chase DC, 5112 Conn. Ave. NW, Unit 311, $314,000 with amazing low fee, $435/mo incl taxes. Convenient 2BR, 1BA coop unit with modern eat-in kitchen, gracious entry foyer, balcony & charming period details.

Read more on our website.

Chevy Chase DC, 3239 Rittenhouse St, NW, $1,119,000. Great Price means Real Value for classic Colonial with fabulous modern twist…wonderful home with 4BR and 3BA up, super-cool Porcelanosa kitchen plus formal LR & DR, powder room and great screen porch/deck on main level; nice Rec Rm with 2nd fp…even a 2-car attached garage!

Read more on our website.

A Sign of Old Times

CONTRACT PENDING

Capitol Hill, 819 E Street SE, $890,000. Top down renovation features livable open plan, and of course, a great neighborhood! 2+BRs and 2BA’s up. Two fireplaces too! This is a new home in a wonderful period wrapper!

Read more on our website.

With 2014 drawing to a close, we are all spending time reflecting on the connections we’ve made with our friends and neighbors in the area. We love what we do because of the great people in our community – we love what we do because of you. Here’s to you, your family and your lovely homes! We wish you all the best in 2015!

Pop Quiz: The Circles of DC!

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SUCCESS STORY!

Neighbors in the Chevy Chase, DC area have been, well, running around in circles lately over the question of what to call the fountain in Chevy Chase Circle. Some say, “Continue calling it Chevy Chase Fountain and remove the plaque honoring Francis Newlands.”

Before you take sides in the debate, see how much you know about DC’s traffic circles! Take the quiz at tayloragostino.com/blog

DC’s sleek new glass-and-perforatedmetal Tenley-Friendship Library building in Tenleytown includes a nod to the past: Its side entrance greets visitors with a lighted sign salvaged from the previous, sixties-era building.

Well, almost anyway. Read more at Read more at tayloragostino.com/blog

TAYLORAGOSTINO.COM >

(Image courtesey of Friends of Chevy Chase Circle)

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Steve Agostino

202.321.5506

Nancy Taylor

202.997.0081

Keene Taylor Jr.

202.321.3488

CALL 202.362.0300 OR VISIT TAYLORAGOSTINO.COM