District Fray Magazine // Summer 2021

SUMMER 2021

Running 101 I Bike for a Cause I The Return of Sports Leagues I Outdoor Shows I Arts Markets

A LIFESTYLE + ENTERTAINMENT MAGAZINE

The Power of Pride

50 LGBTQ+ Names to Know

Comingin

Summer in the City

Hot

WELCOME BACK! STEPHEN SONDHEIM

SWEENEY TODD CHRISTINE GOERKE

THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET IN CONCERT

JOYCE YANG

WOLF TRAP OPERA NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CYNTHIA ERIVO

JUL 2

JoANN FALLETTA

FIFTY YEARS TOGETHER: A CELEBRATION OF WOLF TRAP NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

WATCHHOUSE

(FORMERLY MANDOLIN ORANGE)

JUL 7

A KAY SHOUSE GREAT PERFORMANCE

JUL 1

+3

BEETHOVEN AND BOLOGNE

NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

JUL 8

+9

VIARDOT | HOLST

CINDERELLA (CENDRILLON) | SĀVITRI IN CONCERT

JUL 16

STARIAS: OPERA’S MOST POWERFUL MOMENTS MAX WEINBERG’S JUKEBOX JUL 10 + 11

BIG TONY AND TROUBLE FUNK

WITH SPECIAL GUEST SUGAR BEAR THE LEGENDARY DJ KOOL

JUL 18

WOLF TRAP OPERA ARTISTS AND ALUMNI NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

JUL 23

DAN + CLAUDIA ZANES WITH FRIENDS NEW BEGINNINGS

JUL 24

CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE

JOANIE LEEDS ALL THE LADIES

JUL 27 AN EVENING WITH

AMOS LEE

JUL 21 + 22

CHRIS THILE JUL 24 + 25

CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE

NORM LEWIS

NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

JUL 30

+ 31

TICKETS ON SALE NOW AOIFE O’DONOVAN

WITH MEMBERS OF THE KNIGHTS JUL 28

THE WAR AND TREATY JUL 29

More performances to be announced!

WOLFTRAP.ORG

YOUR SUMMER

IS BACK

FRAY SUMMER LEAGUES ARE HERE

REGISTER AT DCFRAY.COM/SUMMER2021

FEATURES

05

REGGIE GREER ON LGBTQ+ ENGAGEMENT

21

WOLF TRAP’S TRIUMPHANT RETURN

48 TEZRAH TALKS COMMUNITY

53 LOCAL LGBTQ+ NAMES TO KNOW

109 A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO RUNNING

2

| SUMMER 2021

TABLE OF CONTENTS

RADAR

ROBERT KINSLER

EAT

MONICA ALFORD

8 Calendar

15 Restaurant Reopenings 20 Eat, Drink, Read.

MUSIC

Publisher

Editor-in-Chief

M.K. KOSZYCKI Assistant Editor

26 Pride Playlist

CULTURE

28 Millennium Stage Summer Series 30 The Kennedy Center Honors 34 Halcyon Artists Talk Shop 38 National Landing Market

LIFE

40 The Power of Pride 88 AAPI Entrepreneurship

CAPITOL RIVERFRONT

92 Recreation Roundup 94 Neighborhood Gems 98 Post-Game Eats 100 Residents’ Corner 106 A Day with @dccitygirl

PLAY

111 Bike to the Beach 113 Sports Leagues Return 119 In Other Words: Jesse Garcia

FUN

117 Party Animals Illustration Tezrah. Photo by Jonathan Thorpe.

JULIA GOLDBERG Editorial Designer

TOM ROTH

Key Account Manager

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Christina DeNatale, Ingrid Harbo, Alice Hu, Trent Johnson, Colleen Kennedy, Natalia Kolenko, Keith Loria, Michael Loria, Abi Newhouse, Lanna Nguyen, Brendan Padgett, Casey Pazzalia, Kristen Schott, Amanda Weisbrod CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS + PHOTOGRAPHERS James Coreas, Eric Dolgas, Kimchi Photography, Rich Kessler Photography, Jordan Stovka, Jonathan Thorpe CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Eliza Berkon COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Jonathan Thorpe ON THE COVER Morgen Hunt, Brandt Ricca, Ally Spaulding, Tezrah COVER LOCATION Banneker Recreation Center DISTRICT FRAY |

3

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

COMING IN HOT. Summer is in full swing, and there’s a certain energy buzzing through the District right now.

As we prepare for the city’s full reopening on June 11, there’s a palpable excitement in the air. While remaining cautiously optimistic about this next chapter is a smart move, we all deserve the opportunity to start enjoying what we’ve been missing for over a year. Our issue celebrates summer in the city in many ways, but is also a celebration of Pride. It’s never been more important to support the LGBTQ+ community than it is right now, and we relied heavily on our amazing network of friends and collaborators in D.C. to help us curate a list of LGBTQ+ locals you should know. While the list is by no means extensive, we are very excited to share the names and stories of these individuals making an impact, often while choosing to remain under the radar.

Our first four LGBTQ+ notables come in the form of our cover subjects: Morgen Hunt, Tezrah, Brandt Ricca and Ally Spaulding (read more about them starting on page 40). Each are carving out space in the LGBTQ+ community as leaders, supporters and advocates, and all were game to put on ‘80s-inspired workout gear and pose for our cover as a tie-in to Ricca’s upcoming 100-mile race to support LGBTQ+ businesses.

We rounded up 42 LGBTQ+ locals to ask them about their work, community and how the city can better support them, and included interviews with several other community members about Pride celebrations, LGBTQ+ sports leagues and running clubs, and more. We also profiled White House Senior Advisor on LGBTQ+ Engagement Reggie Greer, and “Team Mom” Jesse Garcia, who has played in 50 Fray leagues and built a very closeknit, chosen family of LGBTQ+ locals. And assistant editor M.K. Koszycki put together a Pride Playlist based on our interviewees’ picks.

On the active life front, we wrote a beginner’s guide to running, checked in with local sports leagues about their upcoming seasons and learned more about Bike to the Beach’s cause.

In the arts, we highlighted Wolf Trap’s summer season, the Kennedy Center’s 43rd annual Honors and free summer programming, National Landing Market, and Halcyon arts lab fellows’ latest endeavors.

Plus, read about Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) entrepreneurship, a behind-thescenes look at three restaurants navigating the new normal, and a collaboration between a literary series and local restaurants, and check out an illustration of zoo animals partying on the National Mall.

And don’t miss our special guides in this issue: our picks for outdoor dining and where to explore in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood.

Happy Pride, everyone!

MONICA ALFORD EDITOR-IN-CHIEF 4

| SUMMER 2021

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP. Morgen Hunt, Tezrah, Brandt Ricca, Ally Spaulding. Photo by Jonathan Thorpe.

REGGIE GREER ENGAGES THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY FROM THE WHITE HOUSE WORDS BY TRENT JOHNSON

RADAR | DISTRICT DENIZENS

A

t 10 years old, Reggie Greer already knew what he’d do in life. After thumbing through history books about presidents for school in Wichita Falls, Texas, he recognized the responsibility government had in shepherding opportunity and equality for everyone. This burgeoning interest led his parents to take him to D.C., where he experienced what all young children do during initial visits to the nation’s capital: gawking at the monuments, floating through the museum exhibits, and experiencing the bustle of people donning suits and ties on the Metro.

“I remember I was fascinated with public service and politics,” Greer says. “[The visit] enriched my imagination even further, and I was determined to do whatever I needed to do to get back.”

Now, at 34, Greer is a D.C. resident and White House staffer.

The young boy who aspired to join the ranks of governance accomplished his dream, several times over, and is now a senior advisor on LGBTQ+ issues and the director of priority placement in President Joe Biden’s administration, where he promotes LGBTQ+ inclusion and acts as a liaison between the community and the White House.

“I think I loved the idea of government, whether it be the local, state or federal levels, being used as an instrument for good,” Greer says, echoing fellow Texan and former President Lyndon B. Johnson. “I think public service invites everyone to this center square where people have a role to play in shaping life for all of us.”

Engaging + Serving the Public Greer has always approached his roles in public service from a multifaceted perspective. A Black gay man born with hemifacial microsomia, he’s a member of several minority communities, and his personal experiences continue to play a vital role in his methodology as an advocate.

“All of our personal stories power us to do what we do,” he says. “For me, the connection was a little bit more clear. I had 18 surgeries before my 16th birthday. Because my dad was an 6

| SUMMER 2021

engineer and my mom was a nurse, insurance got us through all those surgeries. I remember thinking how important it was for everyone to have healthcare.”

He says he knew there were other Americans out there like him, and because of this, he realized how imperative it was to mitigate these challenges for others with less.

“I’ve always been interested and impassioned about how to bring these communities in, whether it be low-income, LGBTQ+ or people with disabilities, and learning from them and policy experts so we can get the right work done. The more we can learn from people’s stories, [the more] we can start to fix our systems and institutions.”

He uses the term “story” a lot over the course of our conversation, as he prioritizes his role to listen and give a voice to people willing to share concerns. Over the course of his career, the term “engagement” has often been a heavy focus for him both personally and professionally.

“I think it’s so important people are brought into the process,” Greer says. “The moment we have right now in front of us to fight for equity is all rooted in the idea we come together to listen to what people are asking their government to do and then deliver on that. I wake up every day humbled that I have such a small role to play.”

Family, Love + Coming Out Greer doesn’t get far in thought without bringing up his parents. He says the two constantly encouraged him to put himself out there, explore interests and interact with the world beyond his hometown.

FIRST PAGE. Reggie Greer. Photo courtesy of subject.

“The common denominator growing up was to push myself,” he says. “I ran for class president and student council president, and I won. In sixth grade, I was student council president and I had just had ear surgery, so I was walking around with this big cone on my head with a wrap that looked like an eye patch.

If people got to know and understand me at a fundamental level then they would like me, and if they didn’t, it wasn’t my problem.”

When talking about his own upbringing, Greer can’t help but draw comparisons to what he feels people need today. As he opens up about growing up in Wichita Falls and expresses gratitude for the sense of community he felt there, he ties in how he wants to bottle up this feeling and give it to the people he’s trying to help and serve.

“As we’re thinking about the kind of support trans kids need right now or other folks who live on the margins, they need this,” he says with compassionate conviction. “It’s community.

It’s love. It’s support. It’s constant reaffirmation of your own humanity, so you can have a chance at thriving. I’m just really incredibly blessed and lucky to have that community in Wichita Falls, Texas.”

This sense of togetherness and familial love was never more apparent for Greer than when he came out at 24. Instead of a big meeting with all of his loved ones, he opted for personal conversations with people closest to him, culminating in telling each of his parents one-on-one during a Christmas visit to Texas.

“I told my parents on Christmas Day, first my mom and then my dad, which I think created the most interesting Christmas dinner ever.”

Both reacted positivity, harkening back to all the moments they propelled Greer to constantly explore what it meant to be himself.

“Together, all their questions were carried out with the utmost amount of love and care. I walked away from that experience really appreciating how much they value their role as nurturers and supporters.”

In the White House In March 2020, right when the concept of quarantine invaded everyday American life, Greer joined the Biden presidential campaign as a LGTBQ+ vote director in charge of reaching out and mobilizing the community.

“President Biden made LGTBQ+ equality a staple of his post-vice presidential career,” he says. “The team really wanted someone who could engage the community as the president built out his campaign, and he had just rolled out a really comprehensive agenda for LGBTQ+ initiatives.”

During his time with the Out for Biden initiative, Greer says the team produced 60 virtual events with a focus on LGBTQ+ voices including trans-specific events and others that highlighted communities who needed elevating in a comprehensive way. With Biden in office, his mission hasn’t changed much.

“We are working to get as close to full equality as is humanly possible. That’s our goal because it’s President Biden’s goal.”

The administration has already proven to emphasize

“It’s community.

It’s love. It’s support.

It’s constant reaffirmation of your own humanity, so you can have a chance at thriving.”

LGBTQ+ issues. Greer cites the Bostock Executive Order, which prevents and combats discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation; a rescinding on the ban against trans military members; and enforcement of the Fair Housing Act to ensure trans and nonbinary people are admitted into housing shelters.

“Action after action, the entire administration is committed to LGBTQ+ equality, which I think is a signal that at the federal level, it’s a new day for equality.

However long it takes, we’re committed to that.”

When talking about goals, Greer is pragmatic and realistic, believing time and patience are necessary when tackling large-scale structural changes. In the leadup, he’ll keep bringing in stakeholders with different backgrounds and experiences to share their thoughts and tell their stories. “[We aim to] bring all these folks together often to pursue a whole-government approach, and I think that’s happening,” he says. “In doing that well, you have to give it time. The president has the back of trans youth and LGBTQ+ people, and I know through the actions of so many federal agencies, you’ll see this president moving the ball forward. There’s still a lot of work left to do, but we’re here.”

To learn more about Greer, follow his official White House account on Twitter @ReggieGreer46.

DISTRICT FRAY |

7

RADAR | CALENDAR Summer is in full swing in the District. And thanks to vaccinations, lifted restrictions and warmer weather, things are looking up. Whether you’re ready to jump back into IRL events or want to slowly roll back to in-person gatherings, your calendar will be full thanks to the following events to keep on your radar. COMPILED BY CHRISTINA DENATALE

NOTE: All descriptions courtesy of event hosts and edited for clarity.

THROUGH 6.26

2021 National BBQ Championship + Competitions

The Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle consists of multiple BBQ Contests. The Kansas City Barbeque Society Sanctioned Giant National BBQ Championship Categories include: Pork – “Smokin’ with Smithfield,” Chicken – “Perdue Sizzlin’ Chicken Contest,” Beef – “America’s Best Beef,” a burger competition and more. For more information on each contest, requirements and specific dates, visit their website and social media. www.bbqindc.com // @bbqindc

TUESDAYS THROUGH 8.31

Live Tuesday Bingo at Union Market

Join DC Fray and Union Market for free, in-person bingo on Tuesdays. They’re following CDC guidelines to ensure you feel safe, while having a great night playing bingo and winning prizes.

DC Fray and Union Market will provide the host, the bingo materials and the awesome prizes for you to win. Safely get out of your house and jump back into fun with DC Fray. Walk- ups 8

| SUMMER 2021

available based on availability and cancellations. Your ticket comes with 6-8 rounds of bingo with a prize for each round and an evening of fun outside at Neal Place. Your bingo night will follow all CDC guidelines and be social distanced with set tables and locations for each player. If you come in a small group, your group will be sat together so you feel comfortable and safe while having fun. 6 p.m. Free. www.dcfray.com + www.unionmarketdc.com // @dcfray + @unionmarketdc

SATURDAYS THROUGH 10.2

Sound Health: Yoga at the REACH

Sound Health: Yoga at the REACH is part of the Kennedy Center’s 2021 Millennium Stage Summer Series, celebrating their societal emergence from the pandemic and the return of live performances. Each session begins at 10a.m. and lasts 45 minutes. Please arrive no later than 9:45 a.m. to ensure your spot in the class. After class has begun, late arrivals will be admitted at the discretion of the instructor. Each session will be led by a different local yoga studio instructor and will include music curated by the instructor. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free. John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: 2700 F St. NW, DC; www.kennedy-center.org // @kennedycenter Tiki TNT cocktail. Photo courtesy of location.

5.28-6.6

We Are Home: An AAPI Artist Exhibition

This exhibit is composed of work by local Asian American artists and is co-curated by Emon Surakitkoson and Amy Lokoff. Proceeds will be split between three local organizations combating racism, white supremacy and targeted attacks: Black Lives Matter DC, Collective Action for Safe Spaces, and Asian American Youth Leadership Empowerment and Development. Various times. Free. HOMME: 52 O St. NW, DC; www.bit.ly/wearehomedc // @homme_dc

5.29

OUR HVAC SAVINGS WILL KEEP YOU COOL THIS SUMMER!

CrossFit Murph Workout, Brunch + Brew

CrossFit Murph 2021 is a holiday workout, party and social event at Port City Brewery. Join for an intense CrossFit workout followed by food and refreshments. 8:30 a.m. - 3:45 p.m. $35-$45. Sand and Steel Fitness: 5418 Eisenhower Ave. Alexandria, VA; www.sandandsteelfitness.com // @sandandsteelfitness

Jaws at the Hamilton Live

What better way to kick off the summer then by watching this famous 1975 American thriller while eating dinner at Hamilton Live? Shark meat is not on the menu, but sushi and salmon are. 7 p.m. $5-$30. The Hamilton Live: 600 14th St. NW, DC; http://live.thehamiltondc.com // @thehamiltondc

6.1-6.5 DanceAfrica

Join us for a week of dance, music and tradition during the 34th annual DanceAfrica DC festival titled “Together Again: Celebrating Life, Love, Unity, and Hope!” Celebrate the spirit of the African Diaspora with master classes, oral histories and both virtual and in-person performances. Hosted by Griot Mama Sylvia Soumah, DanceAfrica is guaranteed to inspire, invigorate, educate and entertain. Various times. Free. Virtual and in-person. Dance Place: 3225 8th St. NE, DC; www.danceplace.org// @danceplacedc

THURSDAYS 6.3-8.26

Summer Live Music Series at The Boro

Every Thursday starting June 3 through August 26, join for a free live music series featuring local artists and other entertainment located on the Upper Promenade near Boro Park. Artists include David Thong Band, Elizabeth & Phil of The Breakaways (Acoustic) Duo, Jeff Herbert, Zach Cutler, Justin Trawick, Hand Painted Swinger and more. Visit their website for more info and more information. 5:30-8 p.m. Free. The Boro: 8350 Broad St. Tysons, VA; www.theborotysons.com // @theborotysons

Save

$500

*

on a HVAC system, purchases over $1,500.

CALL TODAY!

877-372-0573

*Not valid on prior sales. May not be combined with any other promotional offer. Products not available in all areas. Trade Licenses for Transform SR Home Improvement Products LLC (in certain states d/b/a Sears Home Improvement Products) at https://transformhomepro.com/license/ Offer Subject to change without notice. Offer Expires 7/31/2021.

Sears Home Services is a TransformCo business. This is an advertisement. TransformCo shall not be held liable for any errors or omissions in pricing. TransformCo reserves the right to make adjustments to pricing and products offerings for reasons including but not limited to changing market conditions. ©2021 Transform SR Brands LLC, PO Box 522290, Longwood, FL 32752-9963. All Rights Reserved

DISTRICT FRAY |

9

RADAR | CALENDAR

FRIDAYS IN JUNE

rooftop to enjoy this up-and-coming artist. 3-8 p.m. $25. Flash: 645 Florida Ave. NW, DC; www.flashdc.com // @nuandroidsmusic

6.6

Rosslyn Cinema

Join the Rosslyn BID this summer for their cinema series to enjoy your favorite movies on the lawn in Gateway Park on Fridays in June. Titles include “La La Land” on June 4, “Monsters Inc.” on June 11, “Wonder Woman 1984” on June 18 and “Cool Runnings” on June 25. Attendees must register in advance of each showing and check-in will begin at 7:15 p.m., with movies starting at sundown. Space is limited, and reservations will open the Wednesday before each movie showing, so be sure to sign up for the BID’s newsletter for weekly reminders. 7:15 p.m. Free. Gateway Park: 1300 Lee Hwy. Rosslyn, VA; www.rosslynva.org // @rosslynva

Fit Foodies Event

Join fitness trainer Arminta to enjoy a good workout and a healthy brunch at Fit Foodies. Ticket price includes a boot camp session, a healthy brunch prepared by Food by Sani and a question-andanswer session with Arminta answering all your fitness and diet questions. $30. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Grant Circle Park in NW, DC; www.eventbrite.com/e/fit-foodies-tickets // @getmintfit + @foodbysanii

Fresh Talk: The Art of Healing

6.5

Oyster Fest at The Eleanor Silver Spring

The Eleanor Silver Spring will serve up War Shore oysters and local brews to help raise funds for No Kid Hungry, a nonprofit that provides healthy meals to area children in need. The Eleanor’s arcade and bowling alley will be open for play. Tickets are required, but no reservation is needed. Walk-up tickets are available if space permits. 1-5 p.m. $29. The Eleanor Silver Spring: 931 Ellsworth Dr. Silver Spring, MD; www.eleanormd.com // @the_eleanor_md

SünDown: Abco + Friends at Flash Rooftop

SünDown season has returned! Abco is a talented artist whose time in dance music has netted her massive wins. Join the Flash

This conversation by the National Museum of Women in the Arts will explore the ways that female caretakers have contributed to traditional medicine; how mental and physical pain is connected; and whether systemic racism and cultural repression create a need for marginalized groups to engage in acts of wellness and healing.

The conversation will be livestreamed on the museum’s Facebook page and www.nmwa.org/livestream. 4:30 p.m. Free + virtual. www.nmwa.org // @womeninthearts

The Light Horse Karaoke Brunch

The brunch is an all-you-can-eat buffet and all-you-can-drink mimosas that are accompanied by karaoke. Come and have some fun, food, music and cocktails. The song book is available online, but tablets can be provided as well. Signing up to sing is contactless via the internet. There is a three-step sanitation process which involves disinfecting the mics, giving them an

BACKED BY A YEAR-ROUND

CLOG-FREE GUARANTEE PROTECT YOUR HOME 365 DAYS A YEAR

15

% & OFF

SENIORS & MILITARY!

2

ER GUA

WE INSTALL LIFETIME WARRANTY

10 | SUMMER 2021

OFF

TO THE FIRST 50 CALLERS ONLY! **

Promo Code: 285

Subject to credit approval. Call for details.

1

CALL US TODAY FOR

YEAR-ROUND!

5

FINANCING THAT FITS YOUR BUDGET!1

D

1

’S

GU

TT

10

%

NATIO

R

E

N

TH

YOUR ENTIRE PURCHASE *

%& OFF

A FREE ESTIMATE

1-888-541-3843

Mon-Thurs: 8am-11pm, Fri-Sat: 8am-5pm, Sun: 2pm-8pm EST *For those who qualify. One coupon per household. No obligation estimate valid for 1 year. **Offer valid at time of estimate only 2The leading consumer reporting agency conducted a 16 month outdoor test of gutter guards in 2010 and recognized LeafFilter as the “#1 rated professionally installed gutter guard system in America.” Manufactured in Plainwell, Michigan and processed at LMT Mercer Group in Ohio. See Representative for full warranty details. CSLB# 1035795 DOPL #10783658-5501 License# 7656 License# 50145 License# 41354 License# 99338 License# 128344 License# 218294 WA UBI# 603 233 977 License# 2102212986 License# 2106212946 License# 2705132153A License# LEAFFNW822JZ License# WV056912 License# WC-29998-H17 Nassau HIC License# H01067000 Registration# 176447 Registration# HIC.0649905 Registration# C127229 Registration# C127230 Registration# 366920918 Registration# PC6475 Registration# IR731804 Registration# 13VH09953900 Registration# PA069383 Suffolk HIC License# 52229-H License# 2705169445 License# 262000022 License# 262000403 License# 0086990 Registration# H-19114

ultraviolet bath, then applying a disposable microphone cover.

11 a.m. - 5 p.m. $40. The Light Horse: 715 King St. Alexandria, VA.; www.thelighthorserestaurant.com // @lighthorse715

6.7

Rum Royale Cocktail Competition at Tiki TNT

The final part of the Rum Royale competition will be held on the rooftop of Tiki TNT at The Wharf. Todd Thrasher has recruited three esteemed judges who will draw from their years of experience to ultimately decide who is a bar above the rest. Following the same guidelines used to determine the ten finalists, the judges will name the grand prize winner to be awarded $3,000, the second-place winner to be awarded $2,000 and the third-place winner to be awarded $1,000. Patrons will also sip and savor the competing cocktails, naming a people’s choice winner to be awarded a $1,000 prize. Free. Tiki TNT: 1130 Maine Ave. SW, DC; www.tikitnt.com // @tiki_tnt

6.8 BMA x NMWA: Pride of Place

This monthly talk show puts women artists and their artworks in conversation with each other, across two museums. Join educators from the Baltimore Museum of Art and the National Museum of Women in the Arts — sometimes with artists and special guests — as they consider themes relevant to contemporary artists and you. 12-12:45 p.m. Free. Virtual. www.nmwa.org // @womeninthearts

6.9

Watercolor and Cocktails: A Sip + Paint Outdoors

Join cookbook author and illustrator Marcella Kriebel in an evening of watercolor painting of an original recipe by mixologist Gina Chersevani. Participants will enjoy a specialty seasonal cocktail prepared by Buffalo and Bergen, and each will be supplied line art of an illustrated recipe of Chersevani’s drink to paint in watercolor. Watercolor techniques will be shared as well as a demo of how to make the drink at home.

Each participant will bring home one of Chersevani’s classic cocktails as a hand-colored illustrated recipe. Art materials for this project are included. This event is a fantastic combination of merriment and creativity, a great night out for creatives, couples, friends and family. 6:30-8:30 p.m. $60-$200. Union Market: 1309 5th St. NE, DC; www.marcellakriebel.com // www.unionmarketdc.com

6.10

Fit Club at Tysons Corner Center

Tysons Corner Center and DC Fray have partnered together to bring a culture of fun and fitness to all with our monthly Tysons Fit Club. Fit Club helps attendees achieve their fitness goals one class at a time. Classes will be held on The Plaza at the green grass eclipse. 6 p.m. Free. Tysons Corner Center Plaza: 1961 Chain Bridge Rd. Tysons, VA; www.dcfray.com + www.tysonscornercenter.com // @dcfray + @shoptysons

Yoga to the 80s

Take a chill pill and join Eat.Yoga.Drink. for a bodacious yoga flow set to your favorite sounds of the 80s. Dress in your comfiest leg warmers, bangles and off-the-shoulder tops (or flip up your collars!) and roll out your mat in the beautiful outdoor space. DJ Thunder Bunny will get you stoked with her rad playlist and after yoga, enjoy a beverage of your choosing from The Freshman. Your first drink is generously sponsored by the National Landing Business Improvement District. 7-9 p.m. $25.

South Bell Courtyard: 1801 South Bell St. Arlington, VA; www.eatyogadrink.com // @eatyogadrink

6.11

Amy Helm at the Hamilton Live

Amy Helm is a legendary singer-songwriter who plays folk rock, blues, country and Americana. Her latest album is titled “What the Flood Leaves Behind,” is autobiographical and represents a gathering of ideas, people and experiences. 7:30 p.m. $30. The Hamilton Live: 600 14th St. NW, DC; http://live.thehamiltondc.com // @thehamiltondc

6.12

Live Action Game of “Clue” and Scavenger Hunt

Time to solve a murder mystery while taking part in an incredible game and scavenger hunt. Throughout the afternoon, as you compete in tasks and retrieve items and information, more clues will be revealed pointing to the murderer, the weapon and the location. The winner will be the one who earns enough points through various challenges (“Clue”-themed) and collecting enough items that can be used to help decipher the basics of the crime. 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. $20. Rosslyn Metro: 1850 N Moore St. Rosslyn, VA; www.thingstododc.com // @thingstododc

Old Town Arts & Crafts Fair

Volunteer Alexandria is thrilled to implement the popular Old Town Arts & Crafts Fair in the Waterfront Park in Old Town.

The park is right on the waterfront in the historic Old Town Alexandria surrounded by a variety of shops, restaurants, parks and the Torpedo Factory. The fair features local and regional artists and crafters who will showcase their pieces across various mediums, including pottery, paper, fabrics, paintings, jewelry, photography and more. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Free.

Waterfront Park: 1A Prince St. Alexandria, VA; www.volunteeralexandria.org // @volunteeralexandria

6.11-6.12

Sampson McCormick at the Comedy Loft

Sampson McCormick is an experience, a down to earth comedic force of nature and has been one of the most sought-after voices of diversity in comedy for two decades. The award-winning entertainer has appeared on BET, TV One, VICELAND, The OWN Network and more. His comedy offers riveting and fresh takes on race, religion, politics and sexuality — you know, all those things you aren’t supposed to talk about in polite company. Various times. $20. The Comedy Loft of DC: 1523 22nd St. NW, DC; www.dccomedyloft.com // @dccomedyloft DISTRICT FRAY | 11

RADAR | CALENDAR

6.13

DC Polo Society Summer Sundays

Your Sunday Funday is back. Bring your friends, family, kids (free under 16) and dogs (on a leash) for a unique experience on the second Sunday of the month through October 2021. Small group seating and areas will be properly distanced along with other guidelines to ensure a safe and beautiful day out in the countryside. 1-5:30 p.m. $125-$200.

Congressional Polo Club: 14660 Hughes Rd. Poolesville, MD; www.dcpolo.com // @dcpolosociety

6.17

shutters, shades & blinds FREE MEASUREMENTS. FREE QUOTES. CONSULTATION. FREE CONSULTATION

Capital Book Fest

Downtown D.C.’s outdoor, pop-up bookstore returns to Wilson Plaza. Shop thousands of gently used books, CDs and DVDs, all on sale for $6 or less. Books provided by Carpe Librum, a local used bookstore benefitting nonprofit Turning the Page.

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free. Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center: 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC; www.downtowndc.org // @capitalbookfest

DC Fray + Tysons Corner Center Happy Hour Bingo

Join DC Fray and Tysons Corner Center for a socially distant, in-person and free bingo night on select Thursdays. Fray will provide the host, the bingo materials (daubers too) and the awesome prizes for you to win. 6-8 p.m. Free. Tysons Corner Center: 7901 Tysons One Pl. Tysons, VA; www.dcfray.com // @dcfray

6.17-6.19

World Refugee Day: Together We Heal, Learn + Shine

For World Refugee Day, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, in partnership with the Kennedy Center and One Journey Festival, presents live music featuring Mélat and Cesar Orozco & Kamarata Jazz.

One Journey is a growing coalition that aims to change the narrative about refugees by celebrating their talents and stories through the common languages of humanity: music, dance, storytelling, art, technology, food and sports. This mission of celebration and connection comes to the REACH with a global marketplace, film screening, dance and yoga instruction, all curated for three days of fun and inspiration. 6 p.m. Free. John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: 2700 F St. NW, DC; www.kennedy-center.org/ // @kennedycenter

Buy One Get One

40% OFF 0% 1

PLUS

FINANCING for 12 months2 HURRY, OFFER EXPIRES JUNE 30!

Louver Shop is America’s #1 choice for shutters, shades and blinds.3 With a vast selection to fit your style. And budget. Our knowledgeable design experts bring the showroom to your living room. It’s the easiest way to elevate your home.

IT’S TIME TO E LE VAT E YOU R H O M E .

866-991-2270 Average Google Reviews Rating:4.75

© 2021 Louver Shop. 1BOGO offer good on products of equal or lesser value. Prior purchases are excluded. May not be combined with other offers. Offer expires 6/30/2021. 2Subject to credit approval. Ask for details. 3Based on a national survey conducted by Vernon Research Group, November 2018. NMLS #1416362

12 | SUMMER 2021

6.19

Afro Soca Love: DC Black Owned Marketplace + Afterparty

Afro Soca Love is coming back with more small businesses, food, good energy and music. Invite and bring the whole family out. They feature even more Black-owned businesses, more food vendors, DJs for more music and dancing while you shop, entertainment, a bigger photobooth, more giveaways and the good vibes of the community. 11 a.m. - 3 a.m. Karma: 2221 Adams Pl. NE, DC; www.afrosocalove.com // @afrosocalove

6.24-6.26

Aida Rodriguez at the DC Comedy Loft

One of the breakout stars from Netflix’s “They Ready,” Aida Rodriguez is back for her second time around at the Comedy Loft. Rodriguez is taking the world of entertainment by storm with her wit, strong performances, and charismatic personality.

Making history as the first Latina to appear in two specials airing in one month on both HBO and Showtime, Rodriguez was handpicked by director Taylor Hackford for his film “The Comedian” starring Robert De Niro. Various times. $25-$35.

The Bier Baron Tavern and Comedy Loft: 1523 22nd St. NW, DC; https://www.dccomedyloft.com // @dccomedyloft

Jalsa REMIX

in the DMV. Established in 1997, the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center brings history, art and culture to diverse audiences through innovative museum experiences and digital initiatives throughout the United States and abroad. John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: 2700 F St. NW, DC; www.kennedy-center.org // @kennedycenter

6.26

Lion’s Pride J’Ouvert: The Mad Circus

Lion’s Pride J’Ouvert is a drinks-inclusive event featuring paint, music trucks and incredible vibes. Registrants will receive a package that includes a bag, t-shirt and wristband for entry among other goodies. 7 a.m. - 12 p.m. $70. RFK Stadium: 2400 East Capitol St. SE, DC; www.hookielife.com // @hookielife

6.27

Women’s Self-Defense in the Park

Instructor and fitness professional Iron Skye is a certified defensive tactics instructor with 10 years law enforcement training and background in Taekwondo and Aikido. Learn how to fight back with this two hour self defense class specifically designed to empower and strengthen women. Please come wearing sneakers, comfy clothes, and ready to work. 2-4 p.m. $20. Ben Brenman Park: 4800 Brenman Park Dr. Alexandria, VA; www.monarchifitness.com //@monarchifitness

The Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center joins with Kennedy Center for a festival filled with celebratory sounds, storytelling, and dance affirming the creativity, joy, and resilience of our AAPI and Global South diaspora communities

The Washington DC Ride for AUTISM & disABILITIES July 30, 2021 | Washington, D.C. Bike to the Beach invites you to join the most fun and impactful challenge of your life.

This beautiful ride to Dewey Beach is also the best way to make a positive difference right in your own backyard. We only have 100 spots, so don’t miss this opportunity.

Register at: DCFRAY.COM/EVENTS

DISTRICT FRAY | 13

RADAR | CALENDAR

PRIDE EVENTS

6.1

6.13

Pride Talks is a series of special conversations with influential figures, educators, celebrities, and leaders of the intersectional social justice movement. These conversations are coordinated by the collaboration between the Capital Pride Alliance and The DC Center. 7 p.m. www.capitalpride.org/colorful-talks // @capitalpridedc

Join Capital Pride Alliance at an exclusive group of beloved local restaurants that have made a commitment to support Pride and local LGBTQ+ charities 365 days a year. Special food items, Pride drink specials, and entertainment at select locations await you.

Your participation will help raise awareness and resources for the GivePride365 Fund. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Select locations throughout the National Capital Region; www.capitalpride.org // @capitalpridedc

Pride Talks: We Are Colorful

6.3-6.5

The Wig Party: A Capital Drag Festival

The Kennedy Center celebrates the talent and history of the District’s legendary Drag community with festivals curated

by Pussy Noir, Don Burke, and JaxKnife Complex of the D.C. drag community. The weekend will feature iconic local DJs, screenings of queer works from regional filmmakers, live music, and Drag acts. Various times. Free. John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: 2700 F St. NW, DC; www.kennedy-center.org // @kennedycenter

6.4

DC’s Royals: A Celebration of Drag

The exhibition showcases a mix of photographs and video footage that authentically honor the roots of drag in America, while celebrating the power, pride, and leadership that define the community. The opening will also feature live performances. 5 p.m. Dupont Underground: 19 Dupont Cir. NW, DC; www.dupontunderground.org // @dupontunderground

6.11

The Capital Pride Honors

Join the annual Capital Pride Honors to collectively celebrate the incredible community honorees who tirelessly contribute to the collaborative advocacy, outreach, education and programming in support of this intersectional community. This year’s event will include a limited capacity in-person ceremony, and livestream. 7 p.m. www.capitalpride.org // @capitalpridedc

6.12

Colorful Pridemobile Parade

Capital Pride Alliance is excited to present the Colorful Pridemobile Parade! This unique mobile parade will feature the official Pridemobile trolly, followed by a colorful array of automobiles decorated by registered organizations and businesses, all on display for enthusiastic onlookers to enjoy. .

3-6 p.m. www.capitalpride.org // @capitalpridedc

14 | SUMMER 2021

Taste of Pride Brunch

6.16

Gaze: Creep Cuts in Freeze Response

Freeze Response follows agitprop surrealists and antifascist clowns Mz. Asa Metric and Mqr En Between as they accidentally present an evening of genre-queer cabaret. Join to careen between dada drag, original electronic music, gay ass social media diatribes and malfunctioning sketch comedy to try and make sense of our nervous, overactive imagination. 5 p.m.

Free. www.danceplace.org // @danceplacedc

6.16-6.20

Gaze: A Queer Research Gathering

Dance Place is excited to host and present Gaze, a 5-day virtual festival highlighting local and national LGBTQIA+ artists and companies. Featuring performances from Creep Cuts and jumatatu m. poe and Donte Beachem and virtual workshops as part of Excessive Realness, a queer-normative dance intensive, this full week event will celebrate and honor queer identities and expression. Various times and dates. Free. www.danceplace.org // @danceplacedc

6.27

Growing Pride at The Garden

This family-friendly event will feature 15 local LGBTQ+ makers and allies set up throughout The Garden with locally crafted goods available for sale. Enjoy local food trucks, live music and crafts. 2-7 p.m. Free. The Garden: 5380 Eisenhower Ave. Alexandria, VA.; www.thegarden.net

6.29

Queer History Walking Tour

Join A Tour of Her Own (TOHO) and A League of Her Own (ALOHO) for a woman-powered evening packed with history and culture. Engage and explore how Washington, DC has been a pivotal location for the struggle for equal rights. Allies, members of the community, and everyone is welcome to join.

The tour route ends and the party begins. Registration required. $0-$35. 6-8 p.m. The Decatur House: 748 Jackson Place NW, DC; www.alohodc.com // @alohadc

EAT

WORDS BY LANNA NGUYEN

EAT

A

year and change into the pandemic, restaurants have established new guidelines, staff have been re-trained with additional responsibilities and customer engagement has been approached in different ways. But as restaurants and bars gear up for summertime business and full-capacity reopenings, new challenges are surfacing — from staffing shortages to supply chain strains. As the industry remains cautiously optimistic, follow along for a behind-thescenes look as three restaurants gear up for the summertime ramp-up: an OG institution, a popular pre-pandemic cafe that recently expanded and a newcomer that opened up during the past year.

BY THE HOUR 5:30 A.M. As most of D.C. sleeps in, for early riser Daniella Senior, the day begins at dawn with an inbox cleanout. Not only does Senior own daytime café and eatery Colada Shop (with locations on 14th Street, at The Wharf and in Potomac, Maryland), she is also behind dual concepts Serenata and Zumo at La Cosecha.

Between those businesses, inquiries and emails are flooding in 24/7. Senior puts out any fires and makes sure that pressing matters are taken care of. “You just never know what the day is going to bring, and you try to anticipate as much as possible,” she says.

7:30 A.M. Brian Zipin, general manager and wine and beverage director of D.C. institution 1789 Restaurant & Bar, begins his day answering emails and then transitions to other business matters when he arrives onsite at the Georgetown restaurant.

8:30 A.M. Joancarlo Parkhurst, chef and owner of La Famosa, arrives at his Puerto Rican fast-fine eatery in Capitol Riverfront. Fully caffeinated, he does a walkthrough of the restaurant and checks in with staff who are onsite — some since 5 a.m. He makes sure pastry production is where it needs to be and then shifts his attention to back-of-house matters. From there, he tackles his inbox, reviews social media, and addresses any requests or comments from guests. After that, he does a walkthrough of the kitchen line, front-of-house bar and café area for inventory.

9 A.M. Senior spends the next few hours of her morning combing through any new reopening guidelines, which she notes are “coming out, at this point, almost daily.” Other items on the morning agenda?

Calls with business partners to discuss everything from PPP (Paycheck Protection Program) and Restaurant Revitalization Fund opportunities to expansion plans and financials. She’ll typically visit one of her three Colada Shop locations in the morning and rotate through the other two spots as the day goes on.

10:30 A.M. Zipin arrives at 1789 and begins reviewing sales and other inventory items. He then checks in with the chefs to touch base on the day ahead. From there, he reviews the reservations for the day, works out staffing schedules, and gets a handle on deliveries and any orders the restaurant is expecting (and troubleshoots when items aren’t delivered as scheduled).

Over in Capitol Riverfront, after reviewing inventory and reaching out to vendors, Parkhurst turns his attention to prep work on the line if it’s a back-of-house day for him. If he’s needed in front of house, catch him manning the café whipping up cappuccinos, espressos and showing off his latte art skills.

16 | SUMMER 2021

11 A.M. Lunch service begins at La Famosa. Up until this point, the staff onsite has been fairly lean with one barista, one manager, one baker and one chef typically at the restaurant. Depending on the day, Parkhurst is cooking on the line, continuing with inventory or assisting with prep work.

At any point in the day, you might find Senior (a Culinary Institute of America graduate) working any of the front- or back-of-house positions at one of her restaurants. “Honestly, in the last month, I’ve been on the line, a cashier, a food runner, a busser and a dishwasher — and sometimes on a full shift.”

2 P.M. Although La Famosa switches over to its all-day menu at 11 a.m., Parkhurst still tries to keep the cafe’s bakery offerings stocked with quesitos, mallorcas and other pastries throughout the day. “Prep work is continuous. All of those things in the pastry cabinet are being produced throughout the day, as well as our regular menu.” He’s hoping to continue pastry production into the evenings as long as he can, pending any staffing challenges.

Senior’s day continues to be in flux as she switches between managing the books, attending business meetings and providing onsite restaurant support. “You’re going from these very high-level meetings with landlords, banks and investors to then switching gears completely and being a food runner,” she says. “I have to wear a lot of hats. I’m grateful that I am able to understand all the positions within the establishment, so if I have to jump behind the bar, I can bartend. I can make coffee.”

Meanwhile, at 1789, Zipin assesses any maintenance that requires his attention before guests arrive. “There’s always repairs,” he says. “There’s always upkeep and maintenance.” Managing one of D.C.’s oldest restaurants, he notes the dining rooms were given a mini-facelift with the changing times of the pandemic.

The fine-dining fixture closed for part of 2020 and reopened in November, which provided an opportunity for a refresh — in addition to bringing on new executive chef Kyoo Eom. “We decided if we’re going to reopen a fine-dining restaurant, let’s reexamine things. What’s fine dining today?” Gone are the flower vases and candles that used to adorn the tables, windows are opened, and there’s a bright, new energy in the restaurant. But the importance of maintaining certain standards remains.

4:30 P.M. As service transitions to dinner, Parkhurst and his team make sure their guests are comfortable with the restaurant’s QR code ordering system. The initial education process takes a little bit of time, he notes. “Once guests understand it and they’re a repeat diner, it’s a breeze.” One silver lining? The restaurant opened in September 2020 during the pandemic, and the team

FIRST PAGE. La Famosa dessert. Photo by Scott Suchman. THIRD PAGE FROM TOP. 1789 desserts. Photo courtesy of restaurant.

Colada Shop Tumbao. Photo by Rey Lopez. Colada Shop treats. Photo courtesy of restaurant.

has been operating with the QR code system and a fully contactless ordering experience from the get-go.

Over in Georgetown, staff arrive for 1789’s dinner service and Zipin prepares for the team’s preservice meeting. As he notes, “You have your life before service and then you have your life leading into service.”

5 P.M. In addition to juggling business meetings and finances, Senior also keeps a pulse on maintenance issues that may arise at any of the Colada Shop locations — from installing water sensors to dealing with plumbing issues, and everything in-between. She jokes, “Things love to break on Fridays at 5 p.m.”

Meanwhile, 1789’s preservice meeting begins and Zipin talks through the schedule, looks ahead at the week of reservations and goes over any guest reviews left on online platforms.

5:30 P.M. Dinner begins at 1789. Training of any new staff occurs during service, in real-time. Throughout it all, Zipin is available as support for his floor managers. Now with staff shouldering more responsibilities, he’s on hand to step in and help oversee the dining rooms when needed. “The role of managers has changed because labor is so hard to find,” he says. “Managers are now taking drink orders, running food, picking up the table. You want to support your staff. You also want to make sure that guests are taken care of.”

7 P.M. At Capitol Riverfront, La Famosa’s bar continues to crank out the tropical cocktails you’d expect to find at a Puerto Rican eatery. From piña coladas to other bright and vibrant rum concoctions, the drinks are labor-intensive to make with multiple components including freshly squeezed juices and fresh-cut pineapple. Although guests have been understanding of the wait times it takes to create these cocktails from scratch, Parkhurst speculates if that will still be the case as reopenings continue.

“I think people are pretty open to the idea that a drink will take 5-10 minutes, but I wonder when things open up if people will continue to have that kind of realistic expectation.”

DISTRICT FRAY | 17

EAT 9 P.M. Senior wraps up for the day, typically remaining at one of her restaurants late into the evening.

Across town, service winds down at 1789 and Zipin turns his attention to closing the restaurant.

10 P.M. Parkhurst and his team begin kitchen walkthroughs to close out the night.

11 P.M. Zipin leaves 1789 for the night. Parkhurst ends his day at La Famosa.

BEYOND THE DAY-TO-DAY As D.C. prepares to move toward full-capacity reopenings, restaurants continue to grapple with what exactly that means for them. Senior hopes as things move forward, the industry conversation will shift back to equality efforts.

“Pre-pandemic, there was a lot of momentum around equality and equity,” she says. “I want to make sure it’s something we still keep moving forward. As we return to normalcy, [continuing] those conversations of gender and race equality and making sure we’re building a sustainable industry.”

For Parkhurst, it’s the recognition that traditional roles will continue to evolve into something more than what they were pre-pandemic.

“The main role of management nowadays is supporting,” he says. “It’s clearing your table, building you a drink, bringing you a drink, helping you order. The level of interaction for managers with guests will continue to be different.”

Zipin echoes that sentiment.

“Think about the challenge for restaurant managers [who] now have to not only manage the day-to-day operations of the restaurant but navigate the changes that have happened since March [2020], the data coming in, and balancing workers and staff.”

For him, the issue of staffing is always at the forefront these days. But as things shift toward normalcy, he hopes guests will continue to appreciate the experiences restaurants and their staff provide.

“Hospitality means a lot to a lot of people,” Zipin says. “I hope when things come back to normal, people remember how enjoyable and important it is.”

1789 Restaurant & Bar: 1226 36th St. NW, DC; www.1789restaurant.com // @1789restaurant Colada Shop: Multiple locations (The Wharf, 14th Street + Potomac, Maryland); www.coladashop.com // @coladashop La Famosa: 1300 4th St. SE, DC; www.eatlafamosa.com // @eatlafamosa Serenata + Zumo: 1280 4th St. NE, DC; www.serenatadc.com // @serenatadc

FREE DATE CHANGES ON 2021 TOURS* FREE DATE CHANGES ON 2021 TOURS*1,249 1,449 FROM

FROM

$

$

* 1,199 FROM

$

*

$

1,199

$

1,249

999 FROM

$

$

$

1,449

*

999 *

ALASKA NORTHERN LIGHTS

ROSE PARADE & LOS ANGELES TOUR

ALASKA LIGHTS Anchorage •NORTHERN Talkeetna • Healy (Denali) •

ROSE PARADE & LOS ANGELES TOUR Los Angeles • Pasadena — Immerse yourself in

7 days, departs February - March 2022

5 days, departs December 29, 2021

7 days, departs February March Fairbanks — Travel deep- into the2022 rugged Alaskan wilderness in pursuit of nature’s most spectacular Anchorage • Talkeetna • Healy (Denali) • nighttime display. Chase after the vibrant lights of Fairbanks — Travel deep into the rugged Alaskan the aurora borealis while you enjoy Alaska’s culture, wilderness in pursuit of nature’s most spectacular nature, and wildlife. nighttime display. Chase after the vibrant lights of the aurora borealis while you enjoy Alaska’s culture, nature, and wildlife.

FROM

$

1,749

$

1,499 FROM

*

1,499

*

$

$

$

1,749

$

10 days, departs June - September 2021 • Capitol Reef • Arches & Canyonlands Grand Junction • Denver and more — Prepare to Las Vegas • Grand Canyon • Bryce Canyon • Zion • be awed as you experience the stunningly red rocks Capitol Reef • Arches & Canyonlands • of these 6 iconic southwestern national parks. Travel Grand Junction • Denver and more — Prepare to

through deserts, forests, mountains, and to the very edge be awed as you experience the stunningly red rocks of the Grand Canyon in this breathtaking tour. of these 6 iconic southwestern national parks. Travel through deserts, forests, mountains, promo code and to the very edge of the Grand Canyon in this breathtaking tour.

$

2,599

* 2,349 FROM $

CRIMSON CANYONS & MESAS NATIONAL PARKS TOUR CRIMSON & MESAS 10 days, departsCANYONS June - September 2021 NATIONAL PARKS TOUR Las Vegas • Grand Canyon • Bryce Canyon • Zion •

TM

5 days, departs December 29, 2021133rd Rose Parade the pomp and circumstance of the with pre-parade viewing of the floats, dinner with the Los Angeles • Pasadena — Immerse yourself in Tournament of Roses Committee, and grandstand the pomp and circumstance of the 133rd Rose Parade seating to see the parade up close. You’ll enjoy 5 days with pre-parade viewing of the floats, dinner with the in Los Angeles, and enjoy one of the world’s most Tournament of Roses Committee, and grandstand memorable New Year’s celebrations. seating to see the parade up close. You’ll enjoy 5 days in Los Angeles, and enjoy one of the world’s most memorable New Year’s celebrations.

FROM

2,599

2,349 *

BEST OF HAWAII FOUR-ISLAND TOUR 12 days, departs year-round

BEST OF HAWAII FOUR-ISLAND Oahu • Hawaii Island • Kauai • Maui — Enjoy TOUR a 12 days, departs year-round fully guided 4-island Hawaiian vacation with centrally located lodging in Waikiki on Oahu, and beachfront Oahu • Hawaii Island • Kauai • Maui — Enjoy a lodging on the “Big Island” of Hawaii, Kauai, and Maui. fully guided 4-island Hawaiian vacation with centrally Guided throughout by our friendly Tour Directors— located lodging in Waikiki on Oahu, and beachfront your local experts. Includes 3 inter-island flights. lodging on the “Big Island” of Hawaii, Kauai, and Maui.

Guided throughout by our friendly Tour Directors— your local experts. Includes 3 inter-island flights.

CALL 1-888-412-9215 CALL 1-888-412-9215

N7017 promo code * Free date changes anytime up to 45 days prior to departure for land tours, up to 95 days prior to departure for cruise tours. Deposits and final payments remain non-refundable. Prices are per person based on double occupancy plus up to $299 in taxes & fees. Single supplement and seasonal surcharges may apply. Add-on airfare available. Offers apply to new bookings only, made by 6/30/21. Other terms & conditions may apply. Ask your Travel Consultant for details.

N7017 TM

* Free date changes anytime up to 45 days prior to departure for land tours, up to 95 days prior to departure for cruise tours. Deposits and final payments remain non-refundable. Prices are per person based on double occupancy plus up to $299 in taxes & fees. Single supplement and seasonal surcharges may apply. Add-on airfare available. Offers apply to new bookings only, made by 6/30/21. Other terms & conditions may apply. Ask your Travel Consultant for details.

EAT

THE INNER LOOP’S LIT FOR LOCALVORES SUPPORTS LOCAL AUTHORS + BUSINESSES WORDS BY NATALIA KOLENKO When the pandemic made its way to our corner of the world last March, D.C.-based literary reading series and network The Inner Loop was on the precipice of launching its new Author’s Corner, a special section inside Adams Morgan-based nonprofit café and bookstore The Potter’s House. What cofounders Rachel Coonce and Courtney Sexton had hoped would only be a two-week halt to their new program would delay it for much longer.

More than a year later, Coonce and Sexton will finally see the Author’s Corner up and running with the June 1 launch of Lit for Localvores, a new campaign celebrating D.C. area writers while also supporting local bookstores and restaurants that have been impacted by the pandemic. It’s no surprise that many of the establishments where The Inner Loop has held events over the years are hurting because of Covid, so this seemed like a perfect way for Coonce and Sexton to expand their campaign while also giving back to their valued partners.

“We always held our readings at local businesses, and that was a huge part of getting the community and writers connected,” Coonce says. “Courtney came up with this idea because it was a way to bring back our partnership with the restaurants we lost when we went virtual.”

D.C. eateries Pie Shop on H Street, Reveler’s Hour in Adams Morgan and Shaw’s Tavern are three of the establishments promoting the Lit for Localvores program. Patrons who order takeout from these businesses will receive a to-go package and menu insert with an excerpt from one of the selected works and a note about the project. The orders will also contain a QR code that take guests to a landing page with book reviews, interviews and author bios. The Potter’s House will carry all of the Author’s Corner books and present them in the store. Each month, the series will spotlight one of nine local authors.

The project, which received an Amazon Literary Partnership grant, was launched last year as a multiplatform promotional campaign that would spotlight a local author and their published work each month.

“Writers today are expected to be writers, promoters, agents, 20 | SUMMER 2021

marketers, booksellers, sometimes illustrators [and] designers — a sort of all-in-one [professional],” Sexton says. “And if you’re not independently wealthy, that’s really hard to do.”

The Author’s Corner was designed to help ease these burdens on DMV writers.

“Treat a local author like a New York Times bestseller,” Coonce says, a motto she and Sexton developed together.

Each selected book and author will be promoted for one month through The Inner Loop’s live readings series and The Inner Loop Radio podcast, as well as on social media. Coonce says she and Sexton hope the Author’s Corner will become a component of their regular programming. Lit for Localvores is scheduled to run through February 2022 with its current slate of authors and may then return with a second installment.

In the meantime, Coonce and Sexton are excited to see some of The Inner Loop’s activity pick back up, including the return of their summer residency program, which will offer a stipend to an underrepresented writer for the first time ever.

“We’re just excited to get back on track,” Coonce says.

“We’re hoping to bring things back to some semblance of normalcy.”

For more about Lit for Localvores, visit The Inner Loop’s website at www.theinnerlooplit.org/eatdrinkread.

Follow The Inner Loop on Facebook @theinnerloopdc and on Instagram and Twitter @theinnerlooplit.

Pie Shop: 1339 H St. NE, DC; www.pieshopdc.com // @pieshopdc The Potter’s House: 1658 Columbia Rd. NW, DC; www.pottershousedc.org // @pottershousedc Reveler’s Hour: 1775 Columbia Rd. NW, DC; www.revelershour.com // @revelershour Shaw’s Tavern: 520 Florida Ave. NW, DC; www.shawstavern.com // @shawstavern Graphic courtesy of The Inner Loop.

MUSIC

A SUMMER

WORTH CELEBRATING

Wolf Trap’s Triumphant Return,

50th Anniversary + Progressive Perspectives

WORDS BY KRISTEN SCHOTT

MUSIC It’s a summer worth celebrating at Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts. Not only is the Northern Virginia destination making its triumphant return as the world emerges from the pandemic, but it is also marking its 50th anniversary as the only public-private partnership between a national park and arts institution. It’s the vision of late philanthropist, activist and landowner Catherine (Kay) Filene Shouse, who donated 100 acres of her farm to the government in 1966 with the goal of creating an expansive outdoor amphitheater where the natural world would organically blend with opera, music and dance — all creative displays of the mind and body. Five years later, that came to fruition with the Filene Center, which debuted on July 1, 1971. Fifty years after that, it will do it again, with a concert — and season — designed to honor the woman who started it all, and the diverse talents who will lead it forward. Here, a look behind the scenes with the folks opening our eyes to the depth of Shouse’s dream and the performers who will break new boundaries onstage.

THE GRAND RETURN

Wolf Trap Foundation and the National Park Service are in what president and CEO Arvind Manocha calls the business of permanence.

“We are joined at the hip in a wonderfully productive, unique partnership that ensures music and nature will always be together,” he says. “There can’t be one without the other.”

That permanence was evident even amid the pandemic — and it will be center stage as the Vienna-based venue reemerges in the months ahead. When the world shut down, Wolf Trap adapted. The organization was the only one in the country to host an in-person opera residency last summer. Social distancing, quarantining and other mandates were followed.

It was a testament to Shouse’s love for the genre as well as the staff’s commitment to ensuring audiences can experience it. Then there was the annual community holiday singalong, held virtually, which drew remote audiences by the thousands.

Viewers used the de rigueur chat function to share their thoughts. Manocha recalls one comment from a former D.C. resident now living in Arizona. “‘I never thought I’d do this again, and now I have that opportunity,’” he quotes. “The experience was open to people who don’t live here, and that was lovely.”

Today, Wolf Trap has positioned itself to reopen in a safe, but deeply moving, way.

“The first time you go back to your favorite venue to see a concert or hear music is going to be emotional,” says Manocha, who has been at the helm since 2013 and spearheaded the expansion of the destination’s artists and its early childhood education program. “It’s going to carry forward all summer.”

Some 80 performances would typically take place at the Filene Center during the season, with opera, ballet, country, classic rock, pop and R&B. Manocha compares it to a Spotify playlist: You go from Brandi Carlile to Beethoven. This year, the number is still developing as artists are being booked and availability changes due to fluctuating guidelines.

For attendance, the institution is taking a phased approach with limited capacity and social distancing in the early summer.

The center can house 7,028; this year, tickets are being sold in pods of two to eight, with a capacity of 1,596 in June and July.

The figure will be updated based on regulations in August and September. But Manocha is enthused.

22 | SUMMER 2021

“Whether it’s 1,500 or 5,000 people, there’s a communal aspect,” he says. “We crave that moment when it’s not just you clapping in your head for something onscreen. It’s actually hearing the applause around you.”

Given the fast pace of updates over the last few months (I spoke to Manocha not 24 hours after the CDC dropped its mask mandate for vaccinated folks), that community could be very different than it is at the time of this article.

“There’s always some new nuance to anticipate,” says Manocha, who notes that he and his team are in touch daily.

“There’s an inherent inefficiency over the last year because you’re planning for a number of scenarios at the same time in case one of them comes true.”

A positive?

“We’ve learned to be flexible, nimble and pivot, and all of the other clichés.”

Other updates include the food and drink options. While Ovations by America Eats will remain closed, concessions will be available. Of course, you can bring your own picnic — a tradition that began with Shouse, when her friends served casual dinners to concert guests.

Ask Manocha when donors and supporters can once again attend the annual ball, usually held in September, and he says they’re still working that out. In the meantime, there is the 50th anniversary concert — not to mention the season ahead — all of which have Shouse’s vision top of mind.

“I think she’d be quite pleased to know that 50 years after she put this ball in motion, a community of people have picked up that ball,” Manocha says. “Even though tastes, music and protocols change, Wolf Trap’s mission hasn’t.”

50 YEARS TOGETHER: A CELEBRATION OF WOLF TRAP

When the proverbial curtains rise on the golden anniversary concert, it will be a jubilant recognition of Wolf Trap’s legacy, advancements and achievements still to come. Compare the 1971 and 2021 lineups. Back then, the cast was made up of men: Julius Rudel conducting the National Symphony Orchestra with pianist Van Cliburn and NYC bass baritone Norman Treigle. Now? Four female powerhouses will take the spotlight: Grammy Award-winner Cynthia Erivo, soprano Christine Goerke, pianist Joyce Yang and conductor Joann Falletta.

It was by design, and boldly so.

“Shouse was not just a trailblazer and an innovator,” says Lee Anne Myslewski, vice president of Wolf Trap Opera since 2006 and a key figure in the planning of the concert. “She also believed in the building up of women. When we were putting this concept together, we were thinking of ways to honor her memory, and also look forward to the next 50 years to think about how and where things might change.”

And through it all, she and her team found meaningful parallels to the past that highlight Wolf Trap’s history. One example is with Falletta, a juggernaut who became the first woman conductor to lead an American orchestra when she took over the Buffalo Philharmonic some 20 years ago. On July 1, she will lead the NSO, Wolf Trap’s longest-running artistic partner, much like Rudel did 50 years prior.

Then there’s Yang, who won the silver medal at the 12th Van Cliburn International Piano Competition in 2005 — at 19, she was the youngest contestant.“There’s a beautiful through-line with Cliburn,” says Myslewski of Yang’s connection to the first

pianist to play at the center.

The opera component is special for a number of reasons.

Treigle’s granddaughter, Emily, is a member of the company this year. Goerke, meanwhile, is an alumni of Wolf Trap Opera’s residency program. She has achieved international acclaim with roles such as Brünnhilde in Wagner’s “Ring Cycle.”

“Having someone of Christine’s caliber join us was really important,” says Myslewski, nodding to Wolf Trap’s long operatic tradition.

Goerke is thrilled for a number of reasons — chief among them is her passion for the organization.

“There’s always something profound and deeply artistic about being in touch with nature at Wolf Trap,” she says.

She’s also thrilled about being a part of the evening’s “girl power” and contributing her voice to the diverse group.

“As a mother of daughters, I find it to be a great time of empowerment for women — and that happens at its best when we draw strength from each other.”

Goerke’s performance will have something for everyone, she says, while also “leaning into things I love that perhaps the audience hasn’t heard me do yet.”

Sure, she’s playing coy, but her approach speaks to the overall depth and breadth of the anniversary concert: old and new, traditional and modern, and forward-looking. That’s also beautifully represented with Erivo, who won the hearts of Broadway fans with her role of Celie in “The Color Purple.”

“She’s breaking so many boundaries,” Myslewski says. “She’s a renowned actress and musical theater performer, but she’s crossed into screenwork and recording. I mean, is there nothing this woman can’t do?”

Selecting from her repertoire is a joy and a challenge, adds Myslewski, noting some of the work Erivo did for “Genius: Aretha,” National Geographic’s biopic, and the original music FIRST + THIRD PAGE. The Filene Center. Photos courtesy of Wolf Trap.

she wrote for “Harriet.” (That flick was filmed in Virginia, by the way.)

Erivo will be the last to perform, ending the night on a muchanticipated high note. Due to scheduling and Covid guidelines, the women won’t appear at the same time onstage. But it will be a unique way for the audience to experience each artist’s skills and talents — and, perhaps, discover something new.

“These modern women with very progressive perspectives are thriving,” Myslewski says. “They’re not just looking ahead to their own futures, but they’re also keeping in mind the future of our art form.”

SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

Bolstering the anniversary celebration are shows that remind us of what makes Wolf Trap special. Among the most meaningful is a series of free thank you community concerts on June 24 to 27, in gratitude to local healthcare workers and educators. There are performances by Preservation Hall Jazz Band (July 17), mandolinist Chris Thile (July 24 and 25), and singer-songwriter Aoife O’Donovan (July 28), whose set will include “America, Come,” inspired by suffragette Carrie Chapman Catt.

Another female-driven aspect comes via the four operas.

Each has a strong female lead and is noteworthy when compared to classic hero-and-heroine plotlines.

“There are not a lot of stories written for feminists,” Myslewski says. “Some stories I would have a hard time producing because I find them problematic. The music is beautiful — that’s not up for discussion — but the question is: Do I want this story to be a vehicle that I use to tell our story?”

Luckily, Wolf Trap’s casting model allows her to select the singers first and then choose the repertoire for their talents. It also gives her the chance to share alternative perspectives.

DISTRICT FRAY | 23

MUSIC

“I always tell people that if you want to know what the DMV is like, spend a weekend at Wolf Trap in the summer,” President and CEO Arvind Manocha says.

“There’s something different every night.”

“These pieces have real artistic merit and fit our singers so well that it makes it easier to take creative risks,” she says.

One play is “Cendrillon,” composer Pauline Viardot’s lighthearted rendition of Perrault’s “Cinderella” (July 16). “Sāvitri,” shown that same night, hails from a Sanskrit tale about a woman who reasons with Death when the god comes to take her husband away. “The Anonymous Lover” (June 18) is a comedy about a young widow who considers whether or not she wants to get back in the dating game.

“There’s a lot of female agency,” Myslewski says.

Another layer? All of the operas have female directors, who will pull off these works in a nontraditional format due to the pandemic. Rather than fully staged productions, they’ll be performed concert-style. NYC-based Emma Griffin, who is leading “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street,” on July 2 and 3, is up for the challenge. After all, she knows the work well (she’s directed it a number of times), but says she’ll finally have the opportunity to strip it down and get to the meat of the matter, if you will.

“What will be exciting is rooting the main performers in their characters and the storytelling — which is so vivid and malicious — in a big way,” she says.

Her favorite role is Mrs. Lovett, the pie shop proprietress, played by Megan Grey.

“Lovett’s a great villainous, but you also love her,” Griffin says. “She’s emotional and funny. She’s scheming, terrible and heartbreaking. She’s a very complete human being.”

That humanity — paired with the fantastical tale — is one of the reasons she believes “Sweeney Todd” appeals to contemporary audiences. It “thrills and delights,” she says.

Something else that will thrill and delight is Big Tony and Trouble Funk. The D.C.-based pioneers of go-go (the group originated in the 1970s and is one of the most sampled in hip-hop history) will make their Wolf Trap debut on July 18. It’ll be their first show together since the pandemic began, and they’ll be the first go-go band to perform at Wolf Trap.

“What a way to start off the year,” says Tony Wilson Fisher (Big Tony).

Their exhilarating blend of ‘70s funk, ’60s horns, percussion and vocals will have the crowd on its feet and dancing (in socially distant pods, of course). They plan to roll out the hits — think “Drop the Bomb” and “Pump Me Up.” “We won’t play all of them, but we will play the ones we think you’ll want to hear.”

There will be a few surprises, he says, and you can expect some work off their forthcoming album.

“It’s been so long. I want to make this a special treat.”

It’s certainly a sentiment shared by all of this season’s performers and Wolf Trap staff members as they get back to doing what they do best, in a venue that lets their music and voices reach the stars.

Learn more about Wolf Trap’s upcoming performance schedule at www.wolftrap.org and follow on Instagram @wolf_trap. The latest safety guidelines and updates will always be available on Wolf Trap’s website.

Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts: 1551 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA; 703-255-1800; www.wolftrap.org // @wolf_trap 24 | SUMMER 2021

Social Changemaker “America, Come” July 28 Grammy Award winner Aoife O’Donovan has spent the last year writing this work, using the letters, speeches and lives of Carrie Chapman Catt and Woodrow Wilson to explore women’s fight for the right to vote — a struggle that continues in different forms today. O’Donovan was commissioned by the Orlando Philharmonic to create the five-song piece. The first is her interpretation of Catt and the suffragettes’ march on Tennessee in 1920. And the fifth ends with a question — a direct quote from Catt: “What is the democracy for which the world is battling and for which we offer up our manpower, woman power, money power, our all?”

“Doing this piece outside of D.C. is poignant with the new administration, the first female vice president and a woman of color, nonetheless,” O’Donovan says. “It feels like we’re at a turning point as we acknowledge our painful past and elevate every voice.”

One to Watch “The Anonymous Lover” June 18 This is an opera before its time — and for a number of reasons, says Lee Anne Myslewski, vice president of Wolf Trap Opera. The 1780 work is by Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges, a Black composer who was the son of a slave and a plantation owner.

“He was so beloved by his father that he sent him to Paris to train,” she says.

He was Marie Antoinette’s music teacher and the first violinist and conductor of the best orchestra in Paris.

“When you consider that he had to do it all under the guise of slavery and not being considered an equal person, it makes not just his life but also his work stand out.”

This is the only operatic work of his that has survived, and follows Léontine, a young widow who begins receiving letters and gifts from an unknown man (hence the name) who declares his love for her.

“It’s a debut for us and it really is just a lovely piece that I’m excited for people to experience,” Myslewski says.

BRAND

BE

NG

TM

ER

&W

IN E S A M

PL

I

COMPILED BY M.K. KOSZYCKI | ILLUSTRATION BY JORDAN STOVKA Music has always been a tool for resistance, acceptance and celebration. With that in mind, we put together District Fray’s Pride playlist by asking some LGBTQ+ locals featured throughout the issue to contribute songs that represent Pride to them and tell us why they picked each song. Add our playlist to your Spotify library here: www.spoti.fi/3oV0zMs. Happy Pride, and happy listening.

CHORD BEZERRA “Dancing On My Own” by Robyn A dance anthem about trying to find love, acceptance and visibility, all set to a pulsating beat. I could just put this on repeat for the night and I think everyone would be happy.

“Free (Mood II Swing Mix)” by Ultra Naté This is an often-overlooked gem. It’s such an uplifting and empowering song that really embraces what Pride is about. @chorduroy80

KC CAMBREL | KC B. YONCÉ “Find Your Way Back” by Beyoncé + “Finally” by CeCe Peniston Both of these songs encapsulate Pride for me this year because they are happy and uplifting songs. One is about finding your 26 | SUMMER 2021

way back to who you really are and the other is about finally being able to celebrate love! @kcbyonce

MAX ERNST “I’m Every Woman” by Chaka Khan When I hear this song, I think of a packed club pre-pandemic where everyone is dancing and singing this at the top of their lungs. This will always be a Pride classic because it’s about seeing yourself in others, and that same notion of togetherness lies at the core of the LGBTQ+ community.

“I Love It (feat. Charli XCX)” by Icona Pop This song is the epitome of Pride. It’s bold, it’s loud and it’s shameless. “I don’t care! I love it!” @maxwell.ernst + @shaedband // www.shaedband.com

MUSIC

JESSE GARCIA

BRANDT RICCA

“You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)” by Sylvester Sylvester is the disco artist no one ever talks about, but everyone dances to. Sticking out as a flamboyant and androgynous performer, Sylvester’s unapologetic presence and sound was destined for greatness until his life was cut short due to AIDS in 1988. His 1978 hit “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)” brings people together on the dance floor and makes them feel proud of who they are. The song is now permanently part of American history. In 2019, the song was selected by the Library of Congress for its National Recording Registry for being “culturally, historically or aesthetically important.”

“I Want It That Way” by Backstreet Boys + “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell I picked these two songs because whenever at a party, social gathering or hanging with a good group of friends, these are two songs that will literally stop conversations. For about three minutes everything else drifts away, even the topics that were being discussed, and lungs are pushed to capacity in unison. If that’s not prideful, I don’t know what is.

“Vogue” by Madonna One of the first major musical artists to openly embrace the LGBTQ+ community in her videos, documentaries and personal life, Madonna signed gay and lesbian artists to her own record label, talked about HIV/AIDS while our government sat on its hands, and she gifted young queers with the soundtrack of their lives. In 1990, “Vogue” captured the moment with style, class, and a great dance beat and moves. This dance style that Madonna lifted from the Black and Brown LGBTQ+ ballroom scene reminded every queer that our most cherished sounds, dances and expressions originate from Black and Brown spaces.

SHADY ROSE

@jessegarciashow // www.jessegarciashow.com

MORGEN HUNT “Broken & Beautiful” by Kelly Clarkson I feel this song embodies the strength you obtain after becoming your true self, or “coming out.”

“Emotions (MTV Unplugged Version)” by Mariah Carey Who doesn’t love a first time high of obtaining your crush or long-awaited love interest? @mimi_magik + @eccdcmetro // www.eccdc.biz

LEMZ “Immaterial” by SOPHIE Pride to me is representation and boundary breaking. SOPHIE encapsulated that, and her music was so innovative and joyful to me. RIP, angel.

“Stars” by Sylvester I’ll let the lyrics do the heavy lifting here: “There’s a party feeling that outshines them all. If you’re here, you’ve earned it, and can’t you hear that call? Take a look around, tell me what you see. Sisters and brothers feeling high, feeling free. Can you lighten up the sky, stars glittering. Dancing in the night, stars shimmering. You are a star, everybody is one. You are a star, and you only happen once.”

@brandtricca + @noraleeus // www.noraleedc.com

“iamundernodisguise” by School of Seven Bells This song speaks to me about connecting with your deepest self and leaving behind all the projected images and preconceptions that might be thrown at you. The chorus, “I am under no disguise,” really speaks to how I want to live: open and authentically me!

“Rhapsody in Blue” by George Gershwin This might be an unusual choice as there are no lyrics, but to me, this bombastic and liberated symphony captures a lot of feelings.

The multiplicity of queerness shines through in joyous crashing and somber thoughtfulness, all in one song! @mobius.rex + @lightmare.dc // www.lightmare.bandcamp.com

ALLY SPAULDING “Ain’t Nobody” by Chaka Khan and Rufus I choose “Ain’t Nobody” because it makes me so happy. I have seen so many groups at Pride over the years dance to it.

“Talking Body” by Tove Lo “Talking Body” was one of the first songs I ever performed to in drag and has a special place in my heart. @allisonclover // www.alohodc.com

MANE SQUEEZE “Essence” by WizKid featuring Tems This is my vibe for the summer. From the texture of Tems’ voice to how she effortlessly rides the beat, whenever I hear it, I want to be driving on an island with the wind blowing through my hair.

“Lockdown” by Koffee As a female reggae artist, Koffee defies odds. Like me, she is unafraid to show up as herself and do what she loves. Not to mention, her vocals are out of this world. @manesqueeze // www.djmanesqueeze.com

@djlemz // www.djlemz.com

TEZRAH

DJ MIM

“Nails, Hair, Hips, Heels” by Todrick Hall Todrick is a gay, inspirational artist in the LGBTQ community, and the song is about feeling confidently queer and breaking gender normativity.

“I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” by Whitney Houston + “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire These are my favorites because both are timeless classics that always uplift my vibe [and] make me throw my arms in the air and feel like I’m the only one on the dance floor! @djmimdc // www.djmimdc.com

“I’m Coming Out” by Diana Ross [This is a] classic LGBTQ anthem that encapsulates the joy and courage of coming out and not being afraid to be who you are. That is what Pride is all about! @tezrah1 // www.tezrah.com DISTRICT FRAY | 27

CULTURE

THE REACH FOR CULTURAL

REPRESENTATION WORDS BY AMANDA WEISBROD

Through a series of weekend festivals stretching from May 27 to October 2, the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage will highlight a range of artists who represent different aspects of D.C.’s rich culture.

Diana Ezerins, director of public programs at the Kennedy Center, says in building the Millennium Stage Summer Series, she focused on bringing art forms to the stage who aren’t usually included within the Kennedy Center’s programming at large.

“The whole point was to showcase different communities in our city,” she says.

Each weekend has a theme that brings D.C.’s cultural diversity into focus. The mini-fests feature performances, workshops, yoga, dance instruction and educational programs.

Because the festivals will be held at The REACH, the Kennedy Center’s campus expansion designed to facilitate shared artistic experiences for the community, Ezerins says there’s plenty of room for visitors to stretch out and stay safe during the ongoing pandemic — even as restrictions begin to ease.

She hopes this in-person festival series will bring people together in a way that has been missing from everyone’s lives for over a year.

“Right now, we’re learning to be together again,” she says.

“I wanted to create something that would embrace what I’m hoping is this renewed sense of community, awareness and care for each other.”

The first mini-fest, spanning Memorial Day weekend, speaks to this idea with the theme “SAMASAMA: All Together Now!” SAMASAMA is an organization that curates events and partnerships “to highlight diasporic narratives and facilitate nuanced dialogue.” As sama-sama’s literal meaning is “all together” in Tagalog, this mini-fest serves to both celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) narratives and bring DMV residents from all backgrounds together.

Co-founder and co-curator of SAMASAMA, Les Talusan, who is also a local DJ and photographer, is kicking off the summer series with a DJ set at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 27.

“The mission of SAMASAMA remains honoring ancestral and indigenous roots while pushing creative boundaries to grow our understanding of current and future generations’ multicultural identities,” Talusan says.

On June 3-5, The REACH invites locals to celebrate the DMV drag community at The Wig Party festival curated by popular performance artist Pussy Noir, whose acts focus on genderqueer imagery. The event is in partnership with The REACH’s Culture Caucus, of which Pussy Noir, known offstage as Jason Barnes, is a member along with co-producer Don Burke.

With many Capital Pride events postponed or canceled due to the ongoing pandemic, Burke says holding this event during the month of June is a small consolation but no replacement.

“We intentionally wanted to have the festival during Pride month, but it’s by no means meant to replace D.C. Pride,” he says. “We were offered the choice between June 3-5 or a weekend in August, and knew we simply had to make sure we’d be celebrating the talent and history of the D.C. drag community during Pride month.”

When asked how it feels to have the opportunity to showcase the drag art form and represent the drag community at such a high-profile venue as the Kennedy Center, Burke says, “It feels fan-freaking-tastic, darling! We are so excited to be bringing

this festival to life. Beyond being the first festival of its kind in the District, we are honored and thrilled to have the chance to give so many drag [and] queer artists a chance to slay on the nation’s stage. We see this festival as a chance to establish drag as a respected art form in the art world, and to celebrate local D.C. area drag artists and history.”

Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind series that puts diversity, inclusivity and community at the forefront of each performance and experience.

All events in the Millennium Stage Summer Series are free.

Tickets are available every Friday for the following Thursday to Saturday. Learn more, including how to preregister for events, at kennedy-center.org/whats-on/millennium-stage/2021/reach-summer.

Check out SAMASAMA at www.samasamaart.com or on Instagram @samasamaart, and Les Talusan at www.lestalusan.com or on Instagram @lestalusan. Check out The Wig Party and Pussy Noir on Instagram @thewigpartydc and @gracedrones.

The REACH at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: 2700 F St. NW, DC; 202-467-4600; www.kennedy-center.org // @kennedycenter

FIRST PAGE. SAMASAMA. Photo courtesy of the Kennedy Center. SECOND PAGE. Pussy Noir. Photo courtesy of subject.

DISTRICT FRAY | 29

All The

Good

43rd Annual Kennedy Center Honors Bring The Arts Back to Life in the District

WORDS BY MONICA ALFORD Every single one of us has missed something fiercely during Covid. Even the biggest introvert has experienced the pangs of loss over some part of their former routine or interactions.

And while I’m an extreme extrovert and avid lover of the arts who stumbled through the past year feeling lost without my frequent touchpoints in the local arts and culture scene, there’s been one particular void in my life that’s been impossible to fill: the performing arts.

On May 21, along with a handful of other members of the press, I was lucky enough to walk into the John F. Kennedy Center for 30 | SUMMER 2021

the Performing Arts’ Hall of Nations and sit directly on the Opera House stage looking out into the audience I’d sat in so many times before. I was about to watch the 43rd Kennedy Center Honorees walk out onto the same stage and sit opposite us, and at that moment, I knew this cloud was being lifted from our city and our lives. The arts had returned.

As each honoree walked across the stage, my heart grew happier and happier. The Kennedy Center could not have picked a more accomplished group of powerhouse talent: the legendary Dick Van Dyke, who stole the show with perfect

L TO R. Midori, Garth Brooks, Joan Baez, Dick Van Dyke and Debbie Allen at May 21, 2021 press event. Photo by Tracey Salazar.

CULTURE

comedic timing at 95 years old; iconic singer-songwriter and activist Joan Baez, who broke into song mid-answer with “(Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody) Turn Me Around;” country singer-songwriter Garth Brooks, who answered questions with a quiet grace and solemnity that resonated long after he’d finished speaking; artist, choreographer and actress Debbie Allen, whose presence alone commanded the attention and respect fit for the performer who helped pave the way for women of color; and violinist Midori, who spoke of her philanthropic efforts and unique approach to famous works.

The camaraderie onstage was palpable; several honorees spoke to the silver lining of receiving this award during the pandemic. The experience has been more intimate, with more time spent just the five of them. They are really getting to know each other, and while large audiences are universally missed, they don’t seem to mind the extra time together.

“I have to say that an award is only as

good as the names that are on it,” Brooks said in response to a press question fielded by Kennedy Center President Deborah F. Rutter, who moderated the group interview. “When you walk in the door and see the list of names and then you sit in this group and get to be a part of this, it’s pretty cool. For the first time in my life, I don’t mind being the weak link in the chain. I’m in the chain. This is a cool thing and I just feel very, very lucky to be among people who look at life this way. Being among this level of character is good for me.”

The country star then looked at his fellow honorees and spoke to some of their key attributes: Baez remaining cool, decade after decade. Van Dyke exuding a timelessness, or as Brooks put it, “If he shaved his beard, he’d be a kid.”

In fact, when the honorees first climbed the stairs to face opposite us, Van Dyke pretended to trip and Brooks, who was nearby in case he needed assistance, was “scared to death.” Without missing a beat, the legendary comic turned around to the press and gave one of his classic mischievous smiles.

Every response Van Dyke gave felt like watching the actor on his beloved sitcom or in a famous scene from “Mary Poppins” or “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” which I’ve now rewatched hundreds of times with my four-year-old. There was clearly no separation between the impish charm on camera and off; the Dick Van Dyke we’ve known through the screen is exactly who he is in real life. And he was equally grateful to be honored by the Kennedy Center, grinning from ear to ear with each response.

“Recognition from your peers is always icing on the cake,” he said. “But this? This moment? This is Westminster Abbey.

This is one of the highest awards. I can’t believe it. This is really a capper for my life.

How I got here, I don’t know. And I’m not going to ask.”

When Rutter asked what’s ahead for the comedian, he replied with no hesitation, “I think the next thing is knighthood.”

While Van Dyke provided a lightness to his responses that was very welcome after such a challenging year, some of the other honorees spoke on more serious topics.

Allen spoke about being instrumental in launching WE tv, the Women’s Entertainment network, something that came naturally to her after years of often being the only woman, and the

only Black person, in the room making creative decisions. And even though she says the entertainment industry now has a much more diverse range of actors and creators painting their palates on television, there’s still work to be done.

“I’m in a place of authority where I see very clearly because I hired more women to direct network television than any,” she said. “I just knew growing up that I didn’t have opportunity and women are so capable of [creating] opportunity, and certainly more Black people. And then, it’s just turned around a little bit where the young white male is somewhat the endangered species. I’ve been hiring some really talented white boys who I love — that’s right, I’ll say it out loud, it’s true — because I think we have to keep that space open, and we have to look at things with open eyes.”

She also touched on the isolation we’ve all felt over the past year, which is what she sees as the greatest problem we currently face in the wake of Covid. Most of the honorees mentioned some of the devastating impacts of the pandemic, and how excited and grateful they are for the opportunity to start reentering the world again as performers with live audiences and more interaction with collaborators and fans.

Midori spoke with me for an interview several weeks before her arrival in the District, noting the many livestream performances she’s given, in addition to online workshops for youth orchestras and other virtual events in support of performing artists and those that had been hospitalized during Covid. And while these experiences were invaluable to the humanitarian, she cannot wait to be immersed in live performances again.

“I’m really looking forward to being able to be face to face, in person, with others to feel the same atmosphere in the same physical place,” she told me on our call. “I think this is one thing we really missed during the pandemic. We do see things opening up very, very much so now in different parts, and I hope it’s going to safely be able to continue that way. And that we can always appreciate how special and how privileged we are to be able to do that. I hope we’re all going to be able to really embrace the opportunities and things that are coming back to us — and do so safely.”

Rutter ended the group interview with this year’s honorees on an uplifting note, with a question for the queen of folk.

DISTRICT FRAY | 31

CULTURE “So Joan, I know you have a special guest joining you tonight,” Rutter said of the center’s evening festivities for the honorees. “That would be Dr. Anthony Fauci. I’m curious how you got to know him and how you extended the invitation.”

“I painted a portrait of him,” Baez said.

“There was a mutual fanship. Since then, we’ve texted periodically. A lot of it’s been kind of silly and a lot of it’s been not. I could call him and ask him directly questions all of us have. He’s Mr. Science, so there he was. For this evening, I was just texting and said, ‘Would you like to come to the blacktie event at the Kennedy [Center] Honors?’

And he said, ‘I would love to. There’s one little glitch. You need to call me.’ So, I called him and before he could say what the glitch was, I said, ‘Tony, you’re not going to tell me that the sexiest man in the world doesn’t have a tuxedo, are you?’ And he said, ‘No, I have a tuxedo.’”

My fellow journalists and I chuckled, Rutter thanked the honorees, we applauded them with the energy of a full audience, and they left the stage beaming. For several minutes, as we all packed up and reveled in the conversation we had just experienced, I looked out at the Opera House seats and imagined myself sitting in one of them, watching intently as the curtains rise for my first Kennedy Center play in many, many months.

Soon enough. On a call with Rutter, we spoke about the center’s recently announced 2021-2022 season, which will include everything from “Hamilton” and “Dear Even Hansen” to “Mean Girls” and “To Kill a Mockingbird.” In the months leading up to the season’s start, she’s looking forward to engaging the local community with the center’s Millennium Stage Summer Series — and celebrating the 43rd annual Kennedy Center Honors with this year’s honorees on Sunday, June 6. While the festivities leading up to this grand event, and the event itself, are much different this year with virtual streaming opportunities available to the public, she says the activities the center has created are a great way for fans and art enthusiasts to take part in the celebrations.

“If we hadn’t moved through the year as we have lived, and if we hadn’t had the experience of really completely changing the way we do our business, it might have been harder to really break all of the traditions,” Rutter says of planning this year’s honors. “We’re keeping certain traditions. We’re just doing them differently. And as a result of having a year of really thinking outside the box, we have 32 | SUMMER 2021

created activities, and ultimately a show, that is completely outside the box.”

When I asked Rutter what it’s like to put together the group of honorees each year, she said, “It feels like we put together the most perfect dinner party — just because of the balance, trying to think about music versus bands versus actors and different genres, etc. I have to say, in this case, all of these names have been on our list. It’s just about finding the right time.”

She went on to say how fantastic she thinks the timing of this year’s honors is, because of the unique situation we’re all in as the world starts to reopen.

“Frankly, it’s a time of optimism. It’s a time of looking forward. I do believe the timing of the filming and broadcasting on June 6 is really somehow magical because increasingly, there’s a sense that artists will soon have the opportunity to go back to something like normal. I don’t know how many programs have really been aired [recently] that are live and have an audience sitting socially distanced from one another. We may be one of the first to have a live show like that. It will certainly be emblematic of the time: Finally, live artists performing all different genres with a live audience eager to be there.”

I think Garth Brooks summed it up best during the interview, when Rutter asked him: “If you were using this moment for inspiration for a song, what do you think the title would be?” “‘All The Good Things,’” he replied.

Watch the 43rd annual Kennedy Center Honors on Sunday, June 6 at 8 p.m. EST on CBS and stream on Paramount+. Go to www.kennedy-center.org/whats-on/honors to learn more about this year’s honorees, what activities are being offered and what performances are available to livestream.

John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: 2700 F St. NW, DC; 202-467-4600; www.kennedy-center.org // @kennedycenter Joan Baez and Dick Van Dyke at May 21, 2021 press event. Photo by Scott Suchman.

ESCAPE THE CITY WITH

SUMMER SUNDAYS JUNE 13 / JULY 11 / AUGUST 8 SEPTEMBER 12 / OCTOBER 10 REGISTER AT:

DCPOLO.COM

CHARITY BENEFICIARY

FOLLOW US:

@DCPOLOSOCIETY

Halcyon Arts Lab Fellows Provide

a Different Antidote

WORDS BY MICHAEL LORIA

34 | SUMMER 2021

CULTURE The pandemic has taken a devastating toll on the arts world, both locally and nationally. But with nearly half of D.C. residents fully vaccinated at the time of writing, and the city reopening in full on June 11, local creators can start to breathe a bit easier.

Writer and performer Fargo Tbakhi; performer, video artist and photographer Imogen-Blue Hinojosa; and multidisciplinary installation artist Jessica Valoris had plans for solo shows, collaborative short films and other artistic endeavors last year.

Despite putting their creative pursuits on hold, the three artists recently landed fellowships with Halcyon Arts Lab, a wing of D.C. nonprofit Halcyon. The fellowship is “designed to provide support and resources to emerging artists working on projects which address issues of social justice, civic engagement and community building.”

Previously, Halcyon residencies spanned five months and ended in a capstone event. But during Covid, there was no grand finale. Opportunities to collaborate became harder and there was no occasion to show work publicly and feel the response of a live audience. And yet, in the stillness of the pandemic, they found new ways to focus their work.

The Exploration of Mixedness For Valoris, whose work follows hours spent researching and reading about Black Fugitive Folklore, isolation was a boon.

She even took a break from social media for last August to help focus. Her process starts by immersing herself in historical records and stories of fugitive slaves, as well as family lore.

While she was raised in Silver Spring, Maryland, her family on her father’s side is from South Carolina and many of their ancestors were enslaved people. Family stories from the Jim Crow era are often heard in her sound collage work. The questions her research raises, and she brings to her artwork, are: What are we still running from today? And what are we running toward?

“I wasn’t exactly sure what I was supposed to do with it,” she says of Freedom on the Move, a database of records of Black fugitivity she uses in her research. “But it was clear there was something here that I needed to listen to.”

At Halcyon, her research led to handmade zines and a micropaintings series, which render the information from wanted ads for fugitives from slavery into a cipher. A ring, for instance, might indicate they were married, or a certain number of moons might indicate when they escaped.

The ads were also a component of her most prominent work at Halcyon: a sukkah installation. A sukkah is a temporary, threewalled structure made for the Jewish holiday Sukkot, which commemorates the Israelites leaving Egypt and entering the desert. In her work, the sukkah provides a space for community members to ask what they want the future to look like.

The work also bridges the two sides of Valoris’ family: her father’s Black ancestors and her mother’s Jewish heritage. Her “mixedness,” she says, was one of the things she was running from. Seeing Sukkot as another celebration of fugitivity helped reconcile the two.

“Through this process, what I’m coming to is they chose to converge through me,” Valoris says. “There’s something in the way I’m practicing [art] that is medicine for the world I want to create.”

Self-portrait by Imogen-Blue Hinojosa.

The Art of Unarchaeology Tbakhi, an Arizona native now in D.C., also explores his roots in his work. Rather than unearthing stories, he buries them through what he calls “unarchaeology.”

“What is a way of thinking about art and storytelling that is the opposite of that?” he asks. “[I take] objects or stories that have already been dug up and narrated and put them back in the ground.”

A queer Palestinian American, Tbakhi looks at Sirhan Sirhan (the Palestinian-born assassin of presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy), his own background and that of his father in “My Father, My Martyr, and Me.” Without a stage during the pandemic, he still applied the same approach at Halcyon to writing and developing puppets for performances, which were inspired by Vermont-based theater company Bread & Puppet.

Although Tbakhi isn’t a trained visual artist, his puppets have a striking effect. One, a floating keffiyeh, or Arab headdress, for example, has a playful yet ghost-like quality.

Another, with a totemic presence, is papier-mâché made from Trader Joe’s bags, and uses a device to pour sand out of its golden-brown mouth. Thus far, Tbakhi has used the puppets in film experiments and plans to use them onstage. Others, he says, just haven’t come to life yet.

As a part of his fellowship, Tbakhi wrote a series of poems beginning with the phrase “Palestine is a futurism.” The poems examine how a future right of return to Palestine involves a return to the past. Rather than have the poems available just online or in books, Tbakhi also printed them onto wood and cyanotype, the blue photographic negative used for household blueprints. There’s a poetic aspect to developing cyanotype, he finds, which requires exposure to sunlight and water to rinse off chemicals.

Reclaiming Space for Trans Bodies Originally from Texas, Hinojosa hails most recently from Ireland, where she had a residency with A4 Sounds in Dublin.

Her capstone work there, “Liturgia,” was a short film of a stage performance about a trans woman who has died and whose spirit has returned as a saint. She recounts her death, speaks about what precipitated it and performs a song. Stills from the shoot were later featured in the recent biannual issue of art zine Elephant Magazine. The work follows several years she spent researching the underreported death and murder of trans women.

“I wanted to create a vigil,” she says of the film, “that would create a response to this femicide and address the social media martyrdom of trans women [that only lasts] for a day or a week and then [disappears] completely from the world or people’s newsfeeds.”

Hinojosa came to Halcyon with a proposal to make a similar film in collaboration with local LGBTQ+ community center Casa Ruby. However, because of Covid, she had to change plans. She has been working on two films using the camera lens to reclaim space for the trans body. “Kameha-Mija!” uses the vernacular of music videos set in South London and “La Morena” challenges the white, cisgender elitism of a London club.

DISTRICT FRAY | 35

The locations for the two London films were places where Hinojosa experienced harassment while pursuing her Master of Fine Arts. By filming in a particular context, she says she is actively reclaiming the space. They’re both everyday spaces as well, reflecting her goal of showing how we all perform, or “drag ourselves,” daily. But in using tropes, like that of the music video, Hinojosa says she aims to make work that is accessible and widely shared.

At Halcyon, Hinojosa pivoted to a feature-length film, 30% of which is finished. Though she worries that finding funding post-pandemic will prove difficult, she sees potential for the work to become short films suited for galleries. “[My work has] taken new forms,” she says. “In the end, it’ll be much easier to access.”

Embracing The Future As the world continues to reopen, the artists have much on the horizon.

Hinojosa’s work was recently featured by the Kreeger Museum, and she also hints at an upcoming photography project involving national parks. Tbakhi will see a revival of his solo show at Mosaic Theater Company on H Street in the fall.

He also received a fellowship from Rhizome DC, an arts center in Takoma. Valoris is working on another sukkah installation 36 | SUMMER 2021

project as part of the Public Interest Design LAB fellowship with the Goethe-Institut and the DC Public Library. The work, she says, will also highlight the history of Black fugitivity in D.C. Each of these artists’ work provides the kind of medicine we all need to try to recover emotionally and artistically from the pandemic. Hopefully, after a tough year for the arts, they will continue to have opportunities to share their work.

“Whenever we create something, it will always need to be innovated,” Valoris says. “It will always need an ability to stretch and include everyone.”

Check out www.jessicavaloris.com for details about Valoris’ upcoming ritual performance and artist talk, “Ode to Zipporah,” at the Kreeger Museum and follow her on Instagram @jessicavaloris for more about her monthly artist talks on Instagram Live, “Art Talks and Tangents.”

Learn more about Tbakhi at www.fargotbakhi.com and follow him on Twitter @YouKnowFargo. Register for his June 18 event “So The Darkness May Glitter: Queer & Trans Arab Futures” at www.bit.ly/3urS4K4.

For more on Hinojosa’s upcoming film, visit www.imogen-blue. com and follow her on Instagram @imogen__blue.

To learn more about Halcyon fellows, their mission and programs, visit www.halcyonhouse.org and follow @halcyoninspires.

LEFT PAGE. Jessica Valoris sewing parts of the sukkah together. Photo by Imogen Hinojosa.

RIGHT PAGE. From top. Fargo Tbakhi in “My Father, My Martyr, and Me.” Photo by Chuck Dries. “Altered Code.” Photo by Jessica Valoris.

DISTRICT FRAY | 37

A Rebellious Take on a Traditional Flea Market National Landing Market Brings International Flair to Arlington WORDS BY COLLEEN KENNEDY

Nestled among a series of high-rise buildings in the upper plaza above the Crystal City Shops, a new open-air market launched in Arlington, Virginia on May 15. During the hour or so while I visited, at least 100 people came through the plaza, browsing, shopping and chatting with the inaugural 20 vendors.

Event producer David Ross curated an upbeat soundtrack with both U.S. and international recording artists.

National Landing Market (NLM) — the latest project from Ross, who was previously the managing director of Dupont Underground — has a global-meets-local, or “glocal,” mission.

The market is designed to celebrate international artists and vendors living, working and creating within the greater DMV. “The whole idea is to do a flea market with a little bit of everything,” Ross says. “It’s like a market that you would visit overseas, and the international community here already knows these types of markets better than anyone else.”

There were tempting sweets, deliciously scented candles, both designer and upcycled vintage clothing, a variety of antiques, handmade jewelry, and more. I left with my tote bag filled with a lavender gift set from Everybodysweet, Fast Snail thank you cards designed and printed by Liz Hutcheson, and several inspirational stickers designed by Lettering by Mei. Noting the importance of the District’s mosaic of cultures and array of embassies, Ross says the focus on international artisans was always part of his design for NLM. And he 38 | SUMMER 2021

acknowledges those with global market knowledge who helped along the way. He gives a lot of credit to Yildiz Yagci and Didem Corakci of nonprofit Anatolian Artisans, who suggested other vendors such as Aysem Furtun, a Turkish silversmith who makes whimsical jewelry.

Yagci, originally from Istanbul, started Anatolian Artisans in 1991 to help low-income women in Turkey develop traditional artisanal skills and create new products at fair wages. Yagci says the nonprofit also serves as a cultural ambassador, teaching Americans about arts and crafts traditional to Turkey and bringing artisans to the states for exhibitions.

NLM is a good alternative for the nonprofit as things have slowed down for them during the pandemic, and Yagci says the artists “enjoy collaborating” with Ross. Their wares at the market’s first week included textile necklaces woven into intricate flowers crafted by female artisans from the coal-mining community of Soma, Turkey, and adorable stuffed animals made from denim. The collective plans to return to NLM every other week, rotating different products such as Turkish scarves.

Camille Blavec, owner of Everybodysweet, makes home fragrances and skincare products with essential oils imported from their point of origin, as well as natural ingredients. Wellversed in the therapeutic aspects of natural oils, Blavec imports French lavender oil from her familial home in Provence, France to make delicately scented candles and other aromatic Dipped Espresso. Photo courtesy of Clay and Honey.

CULTURE

niceties. Ross says representing international artisans is just as important as thinking local.

“The D.C. metro area extends from Baltimore to Richmond,” he says. “Richmond has some of the best artistic power in the region. I view this region as a whole, and I want to go where there’s something new. Pick any place and there’s always somebody doing something creative.”

He describes NLM as a “rebellious take on the traditional flea market, with quirky vintage shops, thoughtful international and nonprofit partnerships, a fun atmosphere, and free-flowing creatives.”

Currently hosting 20 vendors, Ross says the market may eventually expand to as many as 50, with more food options, local breweries, and space for nonprofits and organizations to set up booths as well, adding to the market’s communal quality.

Many of the vendors say they plan to return, but rotating and creating variety is key to the success of NLM, says its associate producer Kate Perry.

“We want people to keep coming by to see what’s changed,” Perry says. “My biggest hope is engaging the actual neighborhood where we’re hosting it.”

Chelsea Hweii Chiee Tan, chef and owner of Chiboo Bakery in Chantilly, Virginia, says she loves NLM’s emphasis on promoting a space for community connection and cultural exchange.

“That’s the experience I strive to create with my baked Macaron box. Photo courtesy of Chiboo Bakery.

goods,” she says. “I want to tell a tale of my sweet adventures through the variety of macaron flavors I can offer.”

Tan, who grew up in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, specializes in handmade gourmet French macarons inspired by global flavors and will be at NLM in early June.

By the time I made my way to the end of the tents, I had already missed out on the popular banana pudding in a jar created by D.C. bakeshop Sweets by Shy, but a few pink strawberry cookies were still available (delicious!) Next time, I will make a beeline for the banana pudding, grab a beer and bring an extra canvas tote to carry home my new purchases.

National Landing Market is open every Saturday through July 31 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visit www.nationallandingmarket.org and follow @nationallanding on Instagram.

Visit Anatolian Artisans at www.anatolianartisans.org and on Instagram @anatolian.artisans, check out Chiboo Bakery at www.chiboobakery.com and on Instagram @chiboobakery.com, and follow Everybodysweet on Instagram @everybodysweet.

National Landing Market: Plaza at 220, 2100 Crystal Dr. Arlington, VA; www.nationallandingmarket.org // @nationallanding + @nationallandingmarket

DISTRICT FRAY | 39

LIF

The Power

of Pride PHOTOS BY JONATHAN THORPE

“You see us as you want to see us: in the simplest terms, in the most convenient definitions.” For our Summer Issue, we took this iconic quote from “The Breakfast Club” and turned it on its head. Our cover subjects may have donned playful ‘80s-inspired fitness outfits for the shoot, but the purpose and drive behind each of their professional and personal endeavors are the real showstoppers. Tezrah, one of the city’s most in-demand DJs, has carved out a space for herself in a male-dominated industry while constantly championing the local queer, trans and nonbinary community. Equality Chamber of Commerce DC Metro Area President Morgen Hunt has been opening doors for 40 | SUMMER 2021

IFE

other LGBTQ+ professionals, particularly those of color, to network and thrive in the District. Brandt Ricca is training for a 100-mile race to raise money for local LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs impacted by Covid while adapting his creative branding agency Nora Lee to our new normal and launching a children’s book series. And Ally Spaulding is kicking ass and taking names as a drag queen and the general manager of D.C.’s only lesbian/queer bar, A League of Her Own, where she helps campaign for mutual aid. Individually, these LGBTQ+ powerhouses are forces to be reckoned with. Together, they embody the power of Pride in the nation’s capital.

DISTRICT FRAY | 41

HAPPY HOUR BINGO SERIES

17

P R E S ENTE D BY:

June

15

July 6PM - 8PM

19

Aug.

16

Sept.

21

Oct.

SOCIALLY DISTANCE

SEATING ON THE PLAZA

hosted by

Ultramarathoner-in-Training

Brandt Ricca Can’t Help But Ask What’s Next WORDS BY TRENT JOHNSON

DISTRICT FRAY | 43

LIFE Louisiana native and D.C. business owner Brandt Ricca is no stranger to athletic endeavors. In fact, the founder of local creative branding agency Nora Lee often searches for boundarypushing experiments to challenge his physical and spiritual limits. Over the past year, Ricca has partaken in the ridiculously restrictive carnivore diet, accidentally given himself tennis elbow via resistance bands and begun an intense training regimen to run 100 miles nonstop. The latter is his newest self-imposed obstacle and represents more than a bout of man versus exercise.

“I’m optimistic,” Ricca says matter-of-factly.

On October 7 at 6 a.m., Ricca will begin a 100-mile run on a route designed by Pacers Running, the sponsor for the event.

This might seem ludicrous to an outsider, but to hear Ricca explain it, the process is just another activity to embrace and another day at the office.

This isn’t just a macho achievement to tack on the resume either, as the event marks an opportunity to raise money for the Equality Chamber of Commerce D.C. Metro Area (ECCDC) in partnership with the Capital Pride Alliance. Money raised will directly benefit local LGBTQ-owned businesses and entrepreneurs like Ricca who have been affected by Covid-19.

“A lot of people in the gay community, especially from creative spheres such as performers and people in hospitality, are struggling to bounce back,” Ricca says.

Ricca soothes his mind and soul while running, lost in the repetition of his feet hitting the ground and music reverberating in his ears. And when he’s not zipping around the city, he’s sitting at a desk in his apartment conjuring up project proposals for local businesses in need of a branding facelift. Whether training or creating, Ricca is perpetually on the move.

Running Ricca For the first 10 minutes of our Zoom call, Ricca floats on and offscreen. He paces back and forth, each time holding something different in his hands — from protein powder to cups to pens. He tells me he’s planning to run after our chat, but not before another call he has scheduled.

In the thick of training, as the daily mileage climbs toward the 100-mile total, Ricca has less and less time for everything else. Multitasking is necessary to ensure he squeezes as much productivity as possible out of each passing day.

“I’ve obviously never done anything to this extent. I normally just do Tough Mudders — nothing crazy. My trainers know I’m crazy. I’m always trying to master a certain skill and then move on.”

He mentions gymnastics and jump roping as examples of previous fitness flings, but like all his previous sparks, they grew boring and repetitive. Brandt needed a new focus.

“I wanted to raise money, so I suggested running 100 miles in a week, and one of my colleagues said, ‘That’s really f--king stupid. I wouldn’t donate to that. That’s easy. 100 miles in two days? I would donate to that.’ So, I started researching and figured it was doable.”

Fitness entrepreneur Brain Mazza was an example of “doable,” as the endurance athlete completed a similar 50mile challenge in 2020 to raise awareness of and money for male infertility. Upon reaching out on social media, the two discussed methodologies for preparation and all aspects of accomplishing the physical feat. Now Mazza is Ricca’s coach, overseeing day-to-day operations with fellow coach and 44 | SUMMER 2021

nutritionist Jacob Zemer, who was brought on to fine-tune Ricca’s diet and help him maintain muscle mass while training.

“I don’t want to wither away and look like Matthew McConaughey in ‘Dallas Buyers Club,’” he says.

The training is strict and laid out month by month, day by day. At this stage, he is consuming 3,400 calories per day to maintain weight and eating a ton of steaks and sweet potatoes.

Other people on the team are Joshua Hockemeyer from Equinox who helps with mobility, and Dario Mejia who performs deep tissue massages, stretches and cupping to aid in recovery.

Ricca is giving himself 48 hours to complete the distance but expects to finish within a day, specifically at about 10 p.m. that night. For every 10 miles, someone will provide him with nutrition and water.

Fitness has always been a part of his life, from lifting sand weights in the backyard as a child in Louisiana to captaining the cross-country team in high school. While meticulous, he’s generally approached the challenge with a sense of pragmatism.

“All of my coaches expect more of a reaction from me sometimes,” Ricca says. “They’ll give me training and say, ‘Brandt, this is going to be hard,’ and I just respond with, ‘Okay.’

I’m just like, ‘What do I need to do, and is this how I do it?’”

The opening days were taxing, as his mileage fluctuated from four to 10 miles. Now several months in, he’ll run 170 miles total in May, and as the distance continues to increase, he finds comfort in the routine.

“Once you mentally get wrapped around it, it doesn’t seem like anything. I treat it like a meditation. I’m more mentally sane from all this running. I think about things I wouldn’t normally think about.”

On the flip side, there are sacrifices like missing summer vacations with the family and whole days dedicated to the big 50- and 70-mile tune-up runs scheduled for later this year.

However, Ricca says the charitable aspect makes the dedication easier to stomach.

“It helps [me] when I’m dying on the run, and I think of the people who have told me they’re applying to receive the grants.”

Local LBGTQ-led businesses are who Ricca immediately thought of when working through the charitable aspect of this challenge. Grants for 20 eligible small businesses will be awarded through the ECCDC following the run in October, and the online application for the funds opens this summer.

In addition to donations from followers of the run, District CoOp is selling branded merchandise and donating 50 percent of profits, and the Four Seasons Hotel Washington D.C. will donate a percentage of proceeds from its first Pride brunch in June.

“I am one of the people affected by it, but there’s always someone worse off,” he says. “I know people working in retail or as servers just to get by.”

Past the Pavement Beyond athletic challenges, dietary restrictions and intense mileage, Ricca is still managing his creative branding agency Nora Lee, which seeks to produce Vanity Fair-esque visual campaigns for local D.C. companies.

The concepts are driven by the creative collaboration between Ricca and Jonathan Thorpe, a local photographer and videographer. After losing many of their clients during the pandemic, Ricca used the isolation to revisit all aspects of the business to investigate what he enjoyed and what he didn’t.

FIRST PAGE. L to R. Tezrah, Morgen Hunt, Brandt Ricca and Ally Spaulding.

Ricca soothes his

running,

mind and soul while

lost in the repetition of his feet hitting the

ground and music reverberating in his ears. And when he’s not zipping around the city, he’s sitting at a desk in his apartment conjuring up project proposals for local

in need of a branding facelift. businesses

Whether training or creating, Ricca is

perpetually on the move.

This begat his passion for branding.

“Not many people are doing what I’m doing in D.C.,” Ricca says. “We’ve gotten new clients, but it’s still like digging yourself out of a hole because it’s been a year of curveballs.”

Before founding Nora Lee, Ricca was a college dropout who had jobs working in real estate, marketing, and parks and recreation, and at gyms. He jokingly says he was lost and mentions how he loathed going to his 9 to 5. In 2018, the business was birthed as an events company following the success of the inaugural Allison Gala, a fundraiser to honor a friend who died of triple-negative breast cancer.

Because of the pandemic halting all live events, the company now exclusively offers creative content for marketing and branding purposes and has completely shuttered all partyplanning operations.

“We come up with out-of-the-box shoots,” Ricca says. “We really try to get to know our clients. I definitely try to steer clear of the cheesy-type stuff you see from more commercial agencies.”

He cites a “Mad Men”-meets-Norman Rockwell shoot with coffee mugs littering a table and a man pouring Cheerios all over his face, dressed in a full suit. All the photoshoots and videos are intended to feel unique and timeless, and Ricca says they’ve so far worked with businesses ranging from magazines to law firms.

“I created my own projects during the downtime to stay relevant and get in the media. I’ll create my own projects even if I’m not initially being paid for them, whether it’s to say something about what’s happening in the world or just give myself something to do because 2020 was a crazy year.”

Ricca lives and breathes the business, which is not-so-

coincidentally named after his business-owning grandmother, who ran an accounting company in Louisiana.

“That was no grand plan,” he says laughing. “I suggested it because she was a badass.”

Another project with Louisiana roots he’s working on is “The Barris Books,” a series of children’s books about a kid living in 1952 New Orleans who drifts into a dream world every night to help navigate the problems in his life. Ricca says he first began writing the stories in 2016 and releasing chapters on a biweekly basis, which led to invitations to do live readings. He’s putting it together alongside Matt Miller, who is illustrating the books.

“I thought it was an escape,” Ricca says. “The first book of the series will be out this fall, and we’re just doing a final overview of it. It’s a little overwhelming.”

When Ricca says the last part, I’m surprised. How can he think anything is overwhelming? He’s managed to adapt his business during a pandemic and is launching a children’s book series, all while training daily to run 100 miles for charity in October.

“This whole thing has been a journey, and I’m going through it,” Ricca says.

Despite his busy days and long nights, Ricca still has visions of what’s next: the next run, the next project and the next book.

“I think honestly, it’s going to be something I look back on and say, ‘Damn, I did that.’ After one big thing happens, my vision goes to what’s next. We’ll see what happens. I’ll probably go to bed.”

To donate to Ricca’s 100-mile run, visit www.bit.ly/3bXo6Y6.

To learn more about him and Nora Lee, follow him on Instagram @noraleeus and @brandtricca, and check out his website at www.noraleedc.com.

DISTRICT FRAY | 45

Morgen Hunt Is in the Business of Inclusivity

WORDS BY M.K. KOSZYCKI

46 | SUMMER 2021

A

s a small business owner, Morgen Hunt has worked hard for herself and her company Horizon Paramedical throughout her career.

After opening many doors for herself through hard work, both personally and professionally, she attended an event and began volunteering with The Equality Chamber of Commerce DC Metro Area (ECCDC).

As she became more involved and connected with LGBTQ+ professionals in a new way, she eventually became vice president and now serves as president of ECCDC. Throughout her tenure as an active member of ECCDC, diversity has been at the forefront of Hunt’s mission. She’s been committed to opening doorways for other LGBTQ+ professionals — especially people of color — to network, connect and thrive in the District.

According to their website, ECCDC is a “nonprofit organization of hundreds of LGBTQ+ and ally members, with a network of several thousand LGBT professionals, allies and business leaders in D.C. and the surrounding region.”

From connecting members with one another to running huge networking campaigns to supporting their Equality Chamber Foundation, Hunt is leading the charge to truly make all feel welcome through the nonprofit’s programs.

“We create a safe space for networking,” Hunt says. “If you aren’t redirecting business to people, even in your own community, you’re not really uplifting them. That’s why we changed our name to the Equality Chamber: to open up doors to allow everybody to come in and network.”

In 2019, which also happened to be the 50th anniversary of the historic Stonewall uprising that set forth Pride celebrations worldwide for years to come, ECCDC adopted its current name. As the organization evolved from the Potomac Executive Network to the Capital Area Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, equality for its members and inclusivity in the larger local business community is always at the forefront.

“That first layer of who we are doesn’t always exist in the heterosexual cisgender world,” Hunt explains. “I could be mistaken, but I think gay folks often think prejudice will come first. You wait for the prejudice, and then can [finally] be you.”

“After I became comfortable with

who I was

, that was when

I was comfortable enough to network, start my own business and become something

scared.

”

more than

LIFE As the first woman to serve as president of the ECCDC, she’s hyperaware of her intersecting identities — especially in regard to setting the stage for those who identify as Black, trans or female to lead by example, both within the chamber and out in their everyday lives.

“What I think is amazing is first, being a woman and second, being of color,” she says of her role as president of the chamber. “I think running an organization and being a trans woman came in a different place in my life. After I became comfortable with who I was, that was when I was comfortable enough to network, start my own business and become something more than scared.”

Throughout her tenure, championing representation for herself and others has been paramount to her mission, and that of ECCDC. She continues, “When people look at the chamber page and see this whole demographic of different people that is a support system, you don’t have to think, ‘Oh, it’s a good old boy club or I have to be blond and blue-eyed to do that.’ We’re all different, and I think we definitely show it.”

Hunt has worked hard for those with intersecting identities to be able to find a place within ECCDC and focus on their businesses while leveraging the resources provided by the chamber. She recalls that many people have noted this change and felt empowered by her efforts.

“I had more people of color come to me in the last year and say, ‘Wow, this is so different.

I was scared to come because I thought I was not going to fit in.’ You have to beat those barriers down. I always have in my life. I think that now, people of color see they can come in, just do their thing and almost have a forcefield of people here. It really is about business.”

When it comes to tangibly supporting marginalized voices in business or otherwise, whether or not you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or just want to be a better ally, Hunt emphasizes that actions will always speak louder than words.

“Put your money where your mouth is,” she says. “We really get polarized with things like people blacking out an Instagram post last year.

But when it comes down to it, do you even wave to a neighbor of color? Do you donate toward certain things that [support] these causes you’re promoting? I really think it’s about doing what you say you’re going to do.”

Learn more about the ECCDC by visiting www.eccdc.biz and following @eccdcmetro on Instagram. Follow Hunt on Instagram @mimi_magik and learn more about her business at www.horizonparamedical.com.

DISTRICT FRAY | 47

Tezrah Talks Community, Safe Spaces + Showing Up

WORDS BY COLLEEN KENNEDY

48 | SUMMER 2021

LIFE

“I love a challenge. Nothing’s going to stop me from going into a male-dominated field.”

Tezrah is speaking of her successful career as a DJ. She recalls that at some gigs, while loading in her equipment, she’s been asked, “Are you the DJ?” “Yes, just watch me play,” she laughs. “I don’t mind being the underdog, because then there’s lowered expectations, and you just blow all the expectations away. You disprove any preconceived notion in their heads.”

Talking via Zoom from her home in Fairfax, Virginia, Tezrah is candid, engaging and frankly, a little restless. She’s been busy during the pandemic doing virtual gigs, working on musical production, playing Fortnite with her girlfriend and her girlfriend’s son, training a six-month hound mix puppy, trading stocks, and as the weather warms up, doing more yard work.

It’s obvious that Tezrah, who was DJing multiple nights a week pre-pandemic, cannot wait to have her nights as busy as her days again. The journey to becoming one of D.C.’s most in-demand DJs has been circuitous, because Tezrah is a multi-hyphenated threat: a formally trained pianist and semi-pro soccer pick with academic training in neuroscience and design. These diverse experiences helped her discover her eventual vocation and inform her approaches to spinning.

After graduating from the College of William & Mary with a pre-med degree in neuroscience, she found herself at a professional and personal crossroads. A college athlete on a competitive scholarship and a lifelong soccer player, she tried out for the Washington Spirit and was the last cut from the roster. Offered a possible position on the semi-pro team, Tezrah points out the pay for women’s professional and semiprofessional athletic teams is inequitable and difficult to live on.

Because she had played since she was five years old, it was not until adulthood that she thought about how the world of sports offers more prestige and money based on gender. But now she was facing that reality.

“It was one of the toughest decisions I’ve made in my life to quit and just play recreationally,” she admits. “A couple of factors went into my decision to stop playing. And then I had DJing on the side, and it just kept growing and growing. I love music and I love meeting people through DJing. I love making people happy and getting them on the dance floor and partying. So, it was a dream.”

Eventually, her skills were renowned enough that she became the resident DJ of glittHER, a popular monthly queer and lesbian party in D.C. that ran for three years. glittHER ended in July 2016 and Tezrah founded her own spinoff party, WhiskHER DC, the following year. Since then, she’s been in constant demand, playing

at clubs across the area, performing halftime shows for the Washington Mystics in 2019, and being voted Best DJ by the Washington Blade in 2017 and 2018.

She admits, however, that despite her rampant success, she felt like an outlier in an exclusive boys’ club early on. There may be more visibility than ever on the DJ platform, but a 2019 djanemag.com survey points out that in the top 150 EDM clubs, the percentage of female DJs performing is just 6%.

The stats are more dire when we look for the number of DJs who are women of color, queer, trans or nonbinary. A New York Times article from April pointed out the erasure of lesbian bars across the nation. Only some closures are pandemic fallouts.

The Lesbian Bar Project counted only 19 surviving bars serving marginalized genders including queer women, nonbinary folx and trans men. In the District, A League of Her Own in Adams Morgan serves as the city’s sole lesbian/queer bar.

“I know women, nonbinary and trans DJs who are just extraordinary in the field,” she says. “They are very independent. They’re entrepreneurs.”

DJ Tezrah shares that some of her favorite DJs are DJ MIM, the Baltimore-based Vodkatrina, CYD, Vanniety Kills, Neekola, Lisa Frank, DJ KB, Jai Syncere and Farrah Flosscett.

These are her collaborators and supporters.

They contact each other when there are new opportunities and venues. They come out for each other’s sets. Tezrah is grateful for the support and interconnectedness of the LGBTQ+ DJ community that has helped her thrive and flourish in her vocation.

Tezrah’s musical sensibilities — impeccably remixing Top 40, hip-hop, R&B, electronic dance music, and ‘80s and ‘90s pop and dance into an irresistible, infectious groove — have made her popular across the region, but she knows the importance of representing and working within the community by performing at LGBTQ+ clubs and bars.

“If you’re a queer woman, trans or nonbinary, there aren’t many places to go to. So, these bars are safe spaces, and we just have to go out and support them [and] be present at their events.

That’s really the only way to do it.”

In addition to booking dates for upcoming gigs, and (fingers crossed) Pride Month events, Tezrah is working on her first album. She’s hoping to get back into the studio soon and wants to produce “a kickass dance song about making up for lost time.”

Tezrah’s Mix “I’ve always been obsessed with music, but I think a lot of people are. I made playlists in college. I made warmup CDs for my soccer team in college as well. So, it just all built up to DJing.” We asked Tezrah to create a mix CD on the spot with a series of prompts.

Check out her tracks below.

WAKE UP “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go”

by Wham!

EXERCISE “Waiting All Night” by Rudimental ft.

Ella Eyre KILLING IT “Boss Bitch” by Doja Cat UNEXPECTED PARTY “All That She Wants” by Ace of Base SLOW DOWN “Back to Black” by Beyoncé with André 3000 GET PEOPLE ON THE DANCE FLOOR “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)”

by Whitney Houston TODAY’S FAVORITE “Hallucinate” by Dua Lipa OLD SCHOOL “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough”

by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell END OF THE NIGHT “We Found Love” by Rihanna ft.

Calvin Harris IF THE CLUBS OPEN TOMORROW “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire

Learn more about Tezrah at www.tezrah.com and follow her on Instagram @tezrah1.

DISTRICT FRAY | 49

Ally Spaulding Leads the Charge at A League of Her Own

WORDS BY M.K. KOSZYCKI

50 | SUMMER 2021

I

t’s no secret that bars hold the ability to bring people together, forge new friendships and be the place where lifelong memories are forged. But some bars — and the people who run them — are more than just a social hotspot for fun, dancing and drinks. This is true for lesbian/queer bar A League of Her Own, affectionately known as ALOHO for short, and its general manager Ally Spaulding. Connection is at the core of everything Spaulding, who took the helm earlier this spring, does.

“I think originally, people did see us as just a bar, which is great,” Spaulding says of the genesis of the Adams Morgan-based bar, which she helped get up and running back in 2018. “When we first opened, that’s what we were.

But with that growth, we’ve been really lucky that it’s become more than that. It’s a safe space.”

Over the past three years, ALOHO quickly solidified itself as a place for the LGBTQ+ community to see themselves and be seen by others. Spaulding was there every step of the way alongside the team and saw the bar carve out this space within the District — and as one of the few lesbian bars in the country.

A self-described communications and LGBTQ+ history nerd with a diverse background in politics, gender studies, social media, drag performance and more, Spaulding now leverages these skills to not only assist in rebuilding the bar in the wake of the pandemic but to continue to be a beacon for inclusivity and innovation going forward.

“That’s really the biggest thing: watching people make those connections and finding people who understand and see you for who you truly are,” Spaulding says of both her role and ALOHO’s mission. “You can be your authentic self in our space. However you identify, however you present, whatever your name and your pronouns are, we accept you exactly as you are. That has easily been the most fulfilling part of my job. It’s why I took this position. I love seeing our community grow and feel safe and happy.”

Spaulding then tells the story of several separate groups who came through ALOHO in February to celebrate the birthdays of Aquarian friends. The groups connected despite Covid precautions, dancing in their seats and sipping on special Aquarius-themed shots made by Spaulding at the bar. At the end of the night, she facilitated the tables in sharing their socials and phone numbers, noting that “clearly, they were all meant to be friends.” Today, Spaulding sees the groups have kept up their connection via social media or trips back to the spot where it all started.

Of course, ensuring ALOHO is a thriving spot and a welcoming space is not without its challenges. Spaulding notes the hurdles she and the rest of the team faced when getting the word out about the bar being open to varying degrees and emphasizing that the health and safety of staff and patrons was at the top of their priority list — to this day. Even still, she forged forward to not only rebuild their in-person community, but to grow the bar’s digital

LIFE footprint and further foster connection online.

“In March, I did a social campaign for International Women’s Month. I wanted it to be not only educational but incredibly intersectional and diverse. Out of the 17 women we featured, only four were white. That was really important to me, especially with everything that’s going on right now. Instead of just highlighting Black trauma, we really needed to highlight Black joy, Black history and Black importance; Latina history and Latina importance; and so on.”

Spaulding hopes that in these social media posts, people found themselves, learned something and felt connection — no matter the intersection of their identities.

“I really wanted people to see that even though times are really challenging right now and we are struggling as a nation — and we should be doing more — here are the people who came before us who made it possible for us to do these things. We should be building on their legacy.”

As Spaulding works to continue the legacy of ALOHO and her mission of education and connection, she has much to look forward to. The spot will celebrate its third anniversary this August, and they’re planning a “total blowout,” whether they decide on an in-person, virtual or hybrid event. Similarly, Spaulding has big goals to continue using ALOHO and its platform to encourage mutual aid around the D.C. area and the LGBTQ+ community at large.

“That’s something we started in the pandemic, and I’ve continued,” she says. “I constantly want to be signal boosting because it’s the least that we can do. I really would love to see our community come together for more of that. It’s been a struggle to get people to really bring in donations. We have our good Samaritans who come every month and bring us stuff, and I’m so grateful for those people. I would love to see more of our community come together for our community.”

And her aforementioned experience as a drag queen?

Spaulding hopes to incorporate drag into ALOHO’s programming in the future and will continue to strive for representation in welcoming that aspect into the space.

After all, her graduate thesis was on the first 10 seasons of the iconic show “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” exploring gender, fashion and acceptance through the lens of the show.

“I hope to bring more AFAB [assigned female at birth] drag, nonbinary drag, and drag king and queens to the bar. Since we are a queer bar, I really want to have that representation. Looking forward, we will hopefully have more of that as well.”

Whether using ALOHO’s platform to educate, advocating for her community and her staff, planning new programming, or taking care of locals through campaigning for mutual aid, Spaulding is leading the charge with communicative compassion as ALOHO enters a new era.

Learn more about ALOHO at www.alohodc.com and follow on Instagram @alohodc. See what Spaulding is up to @allisonclover.

A League of Her Own: 2319 18th St. NW, DC DISTRICT FRAY | 51

TheBoroTysons.com

@theborotysons #theborotysons

While by no means an exhaustive list, we rounded up some of the champions of the LGBTQ+ community in the D.C. area. We picked their brains about the mark they’re making locally and the work we still need to do as a city to support LGBTQ+ individuals. From what words they live by to what’s on their short list of things to do this summer as Covid restrictions continue to lift, read on to get to know these 42 powerhouses.

INTERVIEWS COMPILED BY MONICA ALFORD

DISTRICT FRAY | 53

LIFE

MARCELLE G AFRAM (they/he) Chef + Co-Owner of Shababi Palestinian Rotisserie Chicken Words to live by Something my grandfather used to say to me [that] I have tattooed in Arabic over my heart: “Ma col elbi,” which translates to “With all your heart.” Essentially, anything one does in life, do it with all your heart.

Your impact on the District As a person that belongs to many marginalized groups — trans, Arab, Assyrian — I try to bring attention and visibility to both the joy and struggles that we face. As a chef, I’m trying to reclaim the food of my people, create a bridge of awareness to social justice issues, and create a safe space — socially and in a work environment — for those of us from these marginalized and oppressed communities.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community We are in a privileged, progressive bubble, with legal protections and a diverse community that many in this country are not a part of. It allows us to live with a sense of safety and autonomy.

What the city can improve upon There’s no shortage of visibility that can continuously be celebrated but also normalized, as well as constant increased protections. Specifically for the trans community, a movement toward things like gender-neutral bathrooms would go a long way.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer I came out as trans on social media last summer, and the outpouring from those in the community was so amazing. I’m excited to make those connections in person while grabbing a bite at some of my favorite places I haven’t visited since the pandemic started, and hopefully create a local LGBTQAI+ alliance group for those in the restaurant industry. @marcelle_g + @shababichicken // www.shababichicken.com

CHORD BEZERRA (he/him/his)

@district_coop // www.districtcoop.com

CHARITY BLACKWELL (she/ hers)

D.O.P.E (Director of Poetry Events) at Busboys and Poets | Director of Creative Arts and Educations at DC SCORES Words to live by “You can regain back anything but time wasted!” - Kevin Gates Your impact on the District I try to show up as my full self and bring my full self to all of the work I do. I make sure that anything I touch within the organizations I am a part of pushes for inclusion and brave spaces. From the curriculum that I develop for my kids at DC SCORES, to the events I manage at Busboys and Poets, I strive for everyone to feel seen, heard and valued.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community The District is the first place where I was able to show up as my full unapologetic self as an artist. The diversity and welcoming energy that the District exudes allows a person like me to explore my full creativity with no boundaries or barriers.

What the city can improve upon The city needs more spaces exclusively for the LGBTQ+ community to gather and support each other — creative spaces, especially as the city is rich with extremely talented individuals and groups from the community!

What you’re looking forward to most this summer I am excited about getting back onstage in person with my artists and kids. The virtual space has been a great experience and placeholder for events. But there is NOTHING like sharing and hearing art in community with people in person! @charityjoyceblackwell // www.charityblackwell.com

KC CAMBREL | KC B. YONCÉ (he/him)

Founder of District CoOp | Graphic Designer | DJ

Drag Queen | Event Host | DJ He’s worked at countless venues across the District but considers his home bars to be Number Nine and Trade.

Words to live by It’s not about falling down. It’s about getting back up.

Your impact on the District Whether it is design, fashion or music, I love being able to create. More importantly, I love being able to share those creations and contribute to my community.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community The District is a one-of-kind melting pot of people from around the world. I think that helps people to really appreciate and be open to diversity in any form.

What the city can improve upon I think the city could invest more to support LGBTQ+ nonprofits, especially the organizations doing outreach to the most vulnerable members of our community. We all have to be in this together.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer I miss seeing the community come together, especially around 54 | SUMMER 2021

music and dancing. It always reminds me of what a beautifully diverse city we live in.

Words to live by Be kind. Keep it professional. Zoom out.

Your impact on the District Representation for the queens [of] color. I try to be as inclusive and supportive as possible when casting shows. So I try to lead by example and give encouragement to other queens in the community.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community It has no choice! We are here and LGBTQ people are very active members of every facet of the D.C. community.

What the city can improve upon By finally becoming a state with actual representation in Congress.

Protecting the rights of LGBTQ people, specifically transgender people of color, needs to be a hot topic of discussion and support.

FIRST PAGE. Avanti Fernandez. Photo courtesy of subject. RIGHT PAGE. Clockwise from top. Marcelle G Afram.

Photo by Laura Chase de Formigny. Chord Bezerra. Charity Blackwell. KC B. Yoncé. Photos courtesy of subjects.

DISTRICT FRAY | 55

LIFE What you’re looking forward to most this summer Bringing back “Slay My Name,” my monthly drag show. I miss throwing parties, performing and hosting events SO MUCH! @kcbyonce // www.fb.com/kc.b.yonce

ALLISTER CHANG (he/him) Ward 2 Member, D.C. State Board of Education Words to live by My parents immigrated to D.C. from Taipei, [Taiwan].

My mom worked as an office assistant at the National Press Building on 14th Street. My dad worked as a waiter at Sichuan Pavilion, the restaurant on K Street.

They saved everything they earned to invest in my education. My life’s work is to connect every student to the education opportunities to which my parents worked relentlessly to provide me access.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community I will never forget the image of Edie Windsor on the steps of the Supreme Court following the announcement of the decision in U.S. v. Windsor (2013). The decision struck down the Defense of Marriage Act and became the precedent for the eventual legalization of same-sex marriage. D.C. is where some of the biggest battles for LGBTQ+ rights are fought and won. To me, it’s hallowed ground.

What the city can improve upon Sadly, the pandemic has forced many gay bars to close. I cannot overstate the impact gay bars had on my young adult life, as I searched for safe spaces where I could meet people like me. I’d love to see the District put forth resources to help bring those spaces back. Bars aren’t the only safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community, but they play an important role in creating that welcoming atmosphere in a city.

Your impact on the District Only 30% of fourth grade students in D.C. performed at or above the NAEP Proficient level in reading. In other words, 70% are not reading proficiently by fourth grade.

I focus my work on expanding literacy opportunities. I work to prepare 100% of D.C.’s students to be reading proficiently at grade level. After learning to read, students unlock the potential of reading to learn.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer I’m really excited to be able to celebrate Pride with friends and family IN REAL LIFE. I might be the only person who gets choked up at the sight of the vast sea of rainbow flags that don city neighborhoods and buildings in June. I know we’re not out of the pandemic woods yet, but I’m hopeful that safe, inperson celebrations will be able to resume this year.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community In D.C., I can run for local office as an out LGBTQ+ person and win.

CASSIDY DUHON (he/him)

What the city can improve upon Bullying of LGBTQ students continues to be a problem in schools. GLAAD reports that 87% of LGBTQ youth report being bullied. I believe we have a responsibility as a city to do more to prevent verbal, physical and sexual harassment of LGBTQ students.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer Spending time outside with my neighbors at the Rose Park Farmers Market. I’m the market manager. Join me there on Wednesdays from 3-7 p.m. @allisterSBOE // www.allister4ward2.com

ESTHER CIAMMACHILLI (she/her) Morning Edition Host at WAMU 88-5 Words to live by It’s never too late to carve [out] a new path in life.

Your impact on the District I’m fortunate to be part of the extraordinary and dedicated team of journalists at WAMU [who] serve this dynamic community. I hear from listeners all the time who tell me that WAMU, and I, are a part of their daily routines. It’s a privilege that I never take for granted.

56 | SUMMER 2021

@EstherCinDC // www.wamu.org/show/morning-edition

Portrait Photographer in Shaw Words to live by Someone will meet your image before they meet you!

Your impact on the District I’m continuously devoted to extending the privilege I have to other queer folks, especially the trans community.

I’m all about choosing projects that bring awareness, as well as providing a safe portrait space for needs of the queer community that are often overlooked.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community D.C. has a long history of rebelling against the status quo and being liberal enough to accept all people, and that stands today.

What the city can improve upon D.C. can do more for folks in need in general. A higher minimum wage, better mental health care services, and affordable housing affect our community immensely.

What are you most excited about doing this summer as D.C. reopens?

I’m ready for Trade to fully reopen! I miss screaming in crowds on the back patio. @duhonphotography // www.duhonphotography.com

RIGHT PAGE. Clockwise from top. Allister Chang. Photo courtesy of subject. Esther Ciammachilli. Photo by Kimchi Photography. Cassidy DuHon. Photo by subject.

DISTRICT FRAY | 57

LIFE

LANA DURAN (she/her)

MAX ERNST (he/ him)

Baker + Owner at Online Bakery Lana’s

Producer | Songwriter | Band Member of SHAED

Words to live by Life’s too short to not be happy, so do what makes you happy and live life for yourself — no one else.

Words to live by “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” - Martin Luther King Jr.

Your impact on the District I help with seemingly small deeds: bringing leftover pastries from a coffee shop I baked at to the displaced under the bridges in NoMa, raising money through my IG following to fund relief supplies to protesters during BLM protests and [giving] leftover supplies to the displaced around D.C.

Your impact on the District As a gay artist with permanent roots in D.C., I want to elevate the voices of LGBTQ+ artists living in the city. We’ve partnered with Capital Pride Alliance on a new initiative called The Colorful Campaign that raises money for LGBTQ+ organizations in the city through a collection of remixes of our new song “Colorful.” We’ve already recruited some incredible LGBTQ+ national touring acts like Kat Cunning, but I’m even more thrilled about the potential to showcase up-and-coming artists in the DMV who identify as LGBTQ+.

The Colorful Campaign was born out of the story behind the song: my coming out to my twin brother and his wife Chelsea (my bandmates and best friends) a decade ago. They helped me embrace my sexuality, and when we wrote this song together, we wanted to convey the transformative power of acceptance: the profound impact love and support can have on LGBTQ+ people. All profits generated by the “Colorful” remixes will go to a new fund being launched by Capital Pride Alliance in June called the GivePride365 fund. The “Colorful” campaign’s official launch date is June 11, but in the meantime, you can check out “Colorful” by SHAED on all streaming platforms.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community The LGBTQ+ community is welcoming because we can all empathize with being outcast, shunned or unwanted at some point in our lives, and we don’t want anyone else to ever feel that way. Plus, [it’s a] great way to make new friends and network!

What the city can improve upon Funding for safe spaces where LGBTQ+ youth can gather, find resources and be themselves so that there may be less displaced LGBTQ+ youth in D.C. What you’re looking forward to most this summer Finally seeing my family in New York, DC Fray bocce, Capital Pride Parade and, possibly, parties! @nogoodlana + @sogoodlana // www.lanasdc.com

MICHAEL EDMONSON (he/him/his) Co-Founder + CEO of Worthy Mentoring Words to live by If you can’t love yourself, how ya gonna love somebody else?

Your impact on the District There really is no other place like the District: a place with so many passionate LGBTQ+ activists and human rights defenders. Through the Worthy Mentoring app, we connect these individuals to the larger LGBTQ+ community for mentorship and empowerment.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community I think it’s quite simple: acceptance. In the District, we value our differences and seek to understand, love and accept others regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or background. The LGBTQ+ community is truly welcome here.

What the city can improve upon We can offer more genuine support, guidance and friendship to those struggling to find their voice and place within the LGBTQ+ community. The Worthy Mentoring app provides a great start and a safe platform for our community to either give back or seek support — no matter where you are in your journey of self-discovery.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer Connecting with old friends again! Sharing meals and a happy hour with close friends is a true highlight of my life, and I cannot wait for more of those gatherings again.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community I’ve traveled to cities all over the country on tour, and the spirit of Pride is visibly present in D.C. on a much larger scale than most other major cities I’ve been to. You feel that energy when you see Pride flags displayed on many homes and D.C. establishments.

You feel it when a hundred thousand people show up to party their asses off in the streets of D.C. for the Capital Pride Parade in non-pandemic years. And you feel it when you walk down 14th Street in spring and see more LGBTQ+ couples holding hands than straight couples. As a cis white male, I recognize that my comfortability as an openly gay man living in D.C. isn’t the same for all members of the LGBTQ+ community living here, but I do believe D.C. offers a uniquely welcoming environment when compared to most other places I’ve traveled to.

What the city can improve upon Nearly 43 percent of homeless youth in D.C. identify as LGBTQ+ and of that 43 percent more than half are people of color. Creating awareness of this tragic statistic and generating funds that go to those who are most in need is an area we can always improve in.

Capital Pride Alliance is well aware of this and the GivePride365 Fund being launched in conjunction with the “Colorful Campaign” will directly benefit multiple organizations that provide resources for LGBTQ+ homeless youth.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer I can’t wait to play a concert for our hometown fans, but until then, I’m looking forward to sipping a gin and tonic on a rooftop bar with views of this beautiful city that I’m proud to call home. @maxwell.ernst + @shaedband // www.shaedband.com

@worthymentoring // worthymentoring.org 58 | SUMMER 2021

RIGHT PAGE. Clockwise from top. Lana Duran. Photo courtesy of subject.

Max Ernst. Photo by Jared Zagha. Michael Edmonson. Photo courtesy of subject.

DISTRICT FRAY | 59

LIFE

AVANTI FERNANDEZ | MANE SQUEEZE (she/her) Educator for DCPS | DJ | Graphic Designer | Visual Artist A lot of her creativity and inspiration comes from her amazing and brilliant students.

Words to live by Do it for the love. Don’t do it for the likes.

Your impact on the District I have always been unafraid to show up as myself. When I threw my first event back in 2009 at the Warehouse Loft, it was a MUCH different scene in D.C. I was inspired to throw an event that created space for people who looked like me, who were layered and complex, and whose music taste was wide-ranging. My events were for the LGBTQ+ community, but gained so much traction across different communities, and grew to be extremely inclusive. That wasn’t my goal initially, but it felt great to watch people from different backgrounds connect over the music and art they loved.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community Over the years, there has been a pivot in the culture here. I don’t feel as alienated walking into restaurants and public spaces, and get a few less side eyes (lol). It feels like despite our recent Trump era, culturally, D.C. is progressing.

We should be forever grateful for those who paved the way.

What the city can improve upon The city must find more creative and impactful ways to address affordable housing. A diverse LGBTQ+ community cannot thrive here if we cannot live here. It is important to retain residents who’ve helped nurture our community and to attract new diverse residents to help grow and sustain our community.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer I am excited about summer arts programming in D.C. I am looking forward to the “Kristine Mays: Rich Soil” exhibit on the grounds of Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens and a live outdoor performance of “Homegrown,” an innovative partnership with THEARC Theater, Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, and SPIT DAT, D.C.’s longest-running open mic. @mr_cjfluker on Instagram

RIAH GONZALES-KING (she/her) Founder + Principal of Stunner Social | Vice President of the Equality Chamber of Commerce DC Metro Area Words to live by What you can think, you can create!

What the city can improve upon Like most side effects of gentrification, it is very difficult to find space and/or rent space to host LGBTQ+ events, conversations and initiatives. I think the city needs to be more intentional about creating avenues for access to marginalized communities.

Your impact on the District I hope that my work in the District inspires trans youth to reach above the ceiling many of them feel above them, holding them down. You are valuable, you are worthy, and you can succeed.

Just be yourself!

What you’re looking forward to most this summer To be quite honest, I’ve missed concerts more than anything.

While I don’t feel 100% safe going back inside venues just yet, I am excited for outdoor shows and socially distant fun.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community So many reasons! I think the arts community here has been key for our success, along with the decades-old LGBT+ establishments that have provided us spaces to congregate as a community and be ourselves, even long before we were really welcome.

@manesqueeze // www.djmanesqueeze.com

CLARENCE J. FLUKER (he/him) Director of Community Engagement at the Association of American Medical Colleges Words to live by “If I didn’t define myself for myself, I would be crunched into other people’s fantasies for me and eaten alive.” - Audre Lorde “You have to go the way your blood beats. If you don’t live the only life you have, you won’t live some other life, you won’t live any life at all.” - James Baldwin Your impact on the District Earl, Riley, Ron, Cornelius, Everett, Ernest, Darrin and other Black men in the generation before me opened social, political and professional doors for me to show up as my authentic self.

My hope is that since I’ve walked through those doors, I’ve done a good job at inviting others in and setting up the room for those that will come after me.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community The welcoming environment and opportunities for LGBTQ+ people in the District today are the direct result of decades of activism, policymaking, and community building by our elders.

60 | SUMMER 2021

What the city can improve upon We’re made huge progress, but we can’t be complacent. The entire city must continue to fight for equal opportunity and representation. Even just a little effort to help someone rise up goes a long way.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer Getting back to Chamber Connect events with the Chamber! I miss seeing everyone. @riahgk // www.stunnersocial.com

CEY CEY GREEN (they/them/she/her) D.C. Elementary School Teacher Words to live by “We are each of us angels with only one wing, and we can only fly by embracing each other.” - Luciano De Crescenzo Your impact on the District Both professionally and personally, I hope my impact is that through living life as my authentic self, I am also creating space for other people to do the same.

RIGHT PAGE. Clockwise from top. Clarence J. Fluker. Cey Cey Green. Riah Gonzales-King. Photos courtesy of subjects.

DISTRICT FRAY | 61

LIFE How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community Because the District is not afraid to boldly celebrate us! You look around and there are rainbow flags, organizations that support us and our needs, plenty of support for Pride events, and plenty of other clear examples that this city is a welcoming environment [for] us.

What the city can improve upon By understanding that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to supporting the community. While I see the community boldly celebrated around the city, it would be nice to see the same support for queer Black folks or trans people. Those of us that fit under the umbrella should feel just as supported as our cis/ white/man counterparts, but that isn’t always the case.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer Dancing with my friends. It’s been way too long! @ceyonce

ANTHONY HESSELIUS (he/him/his) President, Linda Roth Associates PR Words to live by It is not always easy, but I try to let empathy inform everything I do. Understanding another person’s perspective builds kindness and compassion, and really enables us to be better to each other.

Your impact on the District Like a lot of people, I moved to the District to go to grad school, and I was a server and a bartender trying to put it all together. As I’ve built my life here, I’ve sought out places in the city where I think I can add value. I’m proud of what I’ve been able to contribute to the business community. If you know me, you’ve definitely been to one of my restaurant openings or all sorts of events over the years. I’ve been able to support the Human Rights Campaign through our Chefs for Equality events. But through my work I’ve also learned just how serious issues around hunger and food equity are. I have been volunteering with the incredible people at the Capital Area Food Bank for 10+ years and found a network of amazing organizations all over the city that are working to fill food deserts, grow food locally, and sustain the young people, working families and senior citizens who need access to better food. I also take the community garden near my house very seriously!

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community I feel incredibly lucky to have found support systems and friends that have been on my side since day one in D.C. Sadly, that’s not the case for a lot of us, but I have also met so many people who are outspoken, tireless advocates for our community. I think there is this misconception that D.C. is as transient as it maybe once was – I’ve been here for 20 years alongside many of the same, proud people who continue to do incredible work towards making our city a more welcoming, safe space for everyone.

What the city can improve upon There remains a huge inequity among just these letters. We (and I mean all of us) need to be unwavering in supporting and protecting our trans sisters and brothers, especially those in the Black trans community. We need to consider how to rebuild queer spaces and invest in the businesses and organizations that protect LGBTQ+ youth and those that provide safe spaces 62 | SUMMER 2021

for those who need it. We cannot be complacent, because too many remain underserved and underrepresented. There will always be more work to do.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer Where to start?! Hugging my friends. Dancing to live music.

I’ve got tickets to the rescheduled Pet Shop Boys and New Order show at Merriweather [Post Pavilion], but I hope we are dancing again well before then! And I can’t wait to have a drink at an actual bar and then give an appropriately large tip to the bartender who is safely back to work.

Hesselius’ work lives online at www.lindarothpr.com or @lindarothpr. Follow his pandemic life as an amateur baker + plant daddy @yoantoine.

JOSEPH IRELAND (he/him/his) Founder + Creative Director of J.D. Ireland Interior Architecture & Design Words to live by Always buy what you should’ve bought the first time.

Your impact on the District D.C. can be so buttoned-up and I like to shake that up. When it comes to how I impact the people around me, I consider myself simultaneously a connector of talented artisans, to people who might not have had a connection to the decorative arts, and a teacher to an engaging clientele. I also think I bring humor and comfortability to people’s homes and lives.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community D.C. welcomes people dedicated to positive change, which has thus created a fairly robust LGBTQ+ community. People want to be with their people!

What the city can improve upon Overall, I don’t think D.C. lacks diversity [or] uniqueness.

Improving LGBTQ+ support should start in the classroom, and that sentiment reaches far beyond the District line. It’s ultimately all about understanding and education.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer We had no real summer of 2020, so this summer I’m all about watching the city come back to life. @jdirelanddesign // www.jdireland.com

ANDRA “AJ” JOHNSON (she/her) Managing Partner + Beverage Director of Serenata, Spritz by Serenata + Zumo Words to live by No one has time for handholding. If the door is open, it’s your responsibility to walk through it.

Your impact on the District I’m certain what I create behind the bar is engaging and delicious, but I think my stance, statements and subsequent programming pertaining to the lack of visibility for Blackowned restaurants and Black chefs in the DMV has had much more of a profound impact on the District when it comes to RIGHT PAGE. Clockwise from top. Andra “AJ” Johnson. Photo by Naku Mayo.

Anthony Hesselius. Photo by Tom Ohs. Joseph Ireland. Photo courtesy of subject.

DISTRICT FRAY | 63

LIFE the restaurant industry. It has led to a surge of support and awareness of Black-owned business within the DMV.

ARVIND MANOCHA (he/him/his)

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community Growing up in a small town or in the suburbs, there are a lot of times when you may feel alone or awkward if you are the only out LGBTQIA+ in a space. D.C. has always been interesting, in that no matter where I am in the city, I’m never the only queer person in the room. You can find your chosen family here. The oldest lesbian bar in the country was here. There is so much support for the LGBTQIA+ community and businesses in D.C.

Words to live by Integrity, patience, humor, loyalty.

What the city can improve upon All of these wonderful things I have to say about D.C. and the welcoming attitude towards LGBTQIA+ comes with a grain of salt. The caveat being that the narrative is different and not as supportive for young Black LGBTQIA+ folx. Community resources and outreach programs need to be set up that are specifically geared to Black youth who are having trouble finding support at home or in their communities. It is a very clique-y community here. If you don’t fit into a certain mold, it is much more difficult to feel like you are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community here.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer Honestly, going to the zoo with my partner and finally being able to sit inside and have martinis at a hotel bar. @whiteplatesblackfaces // www.serenatadc.com

President + CEO of Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts

How would you describe your impact in the DMV, either within your industry or on a personal level?

I share a great responsibility in helping bring people together, in front of their favorite artists. I think this past year, especially, we were reminded how important that experience is — and how the arts help make any community a better place in which to live.

Why is the DMV a welcoming city for the LGBTQ+ community?

Where there is an ever-steady flow of smart young people into the mix, acceptance and tolerance follows.

What the city can improve upon As always, and as is the case everywhere, by continually pushing for equality via every possible mechanism available to it.

What are you most excited about doing this summer as DMV reopens?

What else — going to concerts at Wolf Trap! @arvind.manocha // www.wolftrap.org

LEMZ (he/they) DJ | Musician | Event Producer for BENT at 9:30 Club + Sleaze at Wonderland Ballroom Words to live by Go with the flow. As cliche as it sounds, this is something I’ve learned to apply to every aspect of my life. I don’t plan ahead too often — whether that’s my calendar, a DJ set, a studio session or running an event. Something unexpected is always going to come up, and it’s crucial to be able to roll with it!

Your impact on the District It’s still surreal how much this city has embraced me and allowed me to thrive. I still can’t believe I get to work with so many incredible people and iconic venues. On a personal level, D.C. has led me to my husband, my professional partners, and a beautiful queer scene that has helped me find myself - I wouldn’t be where I am without any of them.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community I really mean it when I say — the community itself. Some of the best people I’ve ever met are here, and really do make this city special.

DUSTY MARTINEZ (he/him/his) General Manager + Head Bartender at Trade Words to live by Ever learning, ever growing, ever changing.

Your impact on the District I’ve always treated everyone the same — every person that walks into my bar or into my life. You get the respect you give. I’m kind to everyone because we’re all only here for a very short amount of time. I think I’ve always given that kind engagement, which has helped me grow in my industry as well as in my personal life.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community The District is a mecca for the LGBTQ+ community. I’ve lived here for 13 years. I’ve watched the city change, and I’ve been part of that change. It’s had its growing pains, but it’s always welcoming new and diverse people from all walks of life. It’s got a very tight-knit community. I think D.C. gives off a small-town vibe in a big city. That’s how I’ve always experienced it.

What the city can improve upon Police reform. Decriminalization of sex work. Better protection for our trans siblings. Affordable housing.

What the city can improve upon I think when it comes to improving its support, D.C. could be open to a more diverse panel of people that really represent all aspects of the rainbow. Everyone needs a voice.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer I’m excited to see all the new music DJs are going to be playing.

After a year of not gigging, I’m sure a bunch of us have quite a lot of new finds. I can’t wait for the random nights running into friends and ending up wherever! I’m ready for ALL THE HUGS.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer I am so excited to have people visit from all over the world and country. We used to get so many people from out of town, and I love watching them experience our city for the first time.

@djlemz // www.djlemz.com 64 | SUMMER 2021

@dustymartinez // www.tradebardc.com RIGHT PAGE. Clockwise from top. Lemz. Dusty Martinez. Photos courtesy of subjects.

Arvind Manocha. Photo courtesy of Wolf Trap.

DISTRICT FRAY | 65

LIFE

CHLOE MCINNIS (she/her) Fitness Professional at Orangetheory Fitness Words to live by You never know until you try.

Your impact on the District As a D.C. native, I try to impact the community by keeping my classes as positive and all-inclusive as possible. Too often in our community, the young do not feel comfortable being themselves for a number of reasons. I would like for the youth to come to my classes and not feel that pressure from the outside world. Fitness can be freeing!

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community This city is a melting pot of cultures, beliefs and lifestyle. Plus, it’s dope AF. What the city can improve upon By not hiding these services from schools and other places where youth go to escape. How can they know about other safe spaces to be themselves if no [one] tells them?

What you’re looking forward to most this summer Sitting at rooftop bar happy hours, going to Nats games and seeing my friends IN PERSON. @iam_aphro // www.orangetheory.com

KYLE MEEKS Realtor + Vice President of TTR Sotheby’s International Realty Words to live by Show me, don’t tell me.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community Because of our community itself. We, of course, have our smaller fractions of community within but, when we see each other, it just feels like home.

What the city can improve upon To be frank, if we get more mixing of communities without the separation, it could work wonders.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer Riding motorcycles to random destinations for ice cream or our favorite spots with my girlfriend and friends! @brix.thebarber

DJ MIM (she/her) Full-Time DJ | Entrepreneur Words to live by Think intentional and purposeful thoughts to fuel your actions.

Your impact on the District I have been a DJ in D.C. since 2009 and have amassed a good following — especially in the LGBTQ+ community. I have been awarded and recognized by the mayor’s office for being a notable queer woman in D.C. How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community D.C. is a very welcoming city for the LGBTQ+ community because the city government and local businesses are inclusive and friendly to this community. Back in 2009, the D.C. Council passed a bill to allow same-sex marriage in the District at a time when the majority of states would not recognize such unions or had bans on it.

Your impact on the District Helping people find a place they call home that inspires them.

What the city can improve upon D.C. could do a better job at outreach and communicating what resources are already existing for the LGBTQ+ community.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community It is a very accepting, safe place to live your true self.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer I am very excited to return to DJing live events.

What the city can improve upon I think the city is doing a good job to support the community.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer Travel. @kylejmeeks // www.premierpartnersdc.com/about/kyle-meeks

BRIXTON MILLNER (he/him) Sales Development Rep by Day | Self-Employed Barber by Evening Words to live by “Dream as if you’ll live forever. Live as if you’ll die today.” James Dean Your impact on the District Hopefully, a positive one in which folks can sit in my barber chair and be their true, authentic selves: a super safe space where we get real and unleash the burdens of the outside world — and watch car-cleaning videos on YouTube!

66 | SUMMER 2021

@DJMIMDC // www.DJMIMDC.com

MYKIE MOLL (he/him) Executive Chef of Crazy Aunt Helen’s Words to live by Treat others the way you want to be treated. A bit corny, I know, but I truly believe if everyone lived by this, we would live in a kinder world.

Your impact on the District Restaurants can be extremely toxic work environments. Being an executive chef, I am able to create a safe work space for ALL humans, where we are a team and treat each other with respect.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community I feel like there are many reasons! The reason I have felt so at home is because of ALOHO (A League of Her Own). I do not think I would have been able to transition last year without the support of the humans I have met at that bar.

RIGHT PAGE. Clockwise from top. Brixton Millner. Kyle Meeks. Chloe Mcinnis. DJ MIM. Mykie Moll. Photos courtesy of subjects.

DISTRICT FRAY | 67

LIFE What the city can improve upon I would love to see more queer spaces that do not solely focus on cis gay men. It has been very exciting to read about as you are bar coming to D.C. soon, and I hope to see more spaces to come after that.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer So I am definitely biased on this one, but the opening of Crazy Aunt Helen’s. The restaurant is LGBTQ+ owned and managed. We will also have live music, fun community activities and performances.

We already have Sherry Vine booked to come perform this August. @chefmykiemoll

PETER MORGAN (he/him)

Executive Director of DC Shorts International Film Festival Words to live by By the words of Abraham Lincoln: “Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.”

Your impact on the District Through DC Shorts, I’m grateful to be involved in programming and showcasing some of the best LGBTQ+ short films from around the globe that highlight diversity in the genre and spotlight many incredibly talented filmmakers. I’m also very proud to have been involved in the launch of Gay For Good Washington DC, and leading the chapter through its first few years as we planned monthly volunteer service projects for the LGBTQ+ community at nonLGBTQ organizations, hoping to bridge the gap in understanding and visibility that may still exist between communities.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community The region’s LGBTQ+ community is welcoming because it is so varied and wonderfully diverse, with something for everyone.

Whether someone is looking to meet people in the arts, sports, politics, music, volunteerism or in the many other areas represented, there is a friendly group waiting for new enthusiastic people to join in.

What the city can improve upon D.C. can improve support by increased funding to the numerous LGBTQ+ nonprofits providing critical services to our community.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer Friends and family members have been waiting for travel to safely reopen post-pandemic so they can visit D.C. I’m very excited that their plans are now in the works, and I’ll soon be hosting them and hitting my favorite D.C. spots with some of my favorite people on the planet. @dcshorts // www.dcshorts.com

AARON MYERS (he/him) Artist | Advocate Words to live by “It takes courage to begin...but the art is finishing.”

Your impact on the District I pray my impact has been positive. It’s been my goal to have a solution-based approach to any problem I’ve been faced with, and 68 | SUMMER 2021

it’s been my goal to lead by example. I believe that the work I’ve done has helped individuals and businesses, while giving a voice to those who may — and are — often overlooked.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community There’s no other city like it. I think “intentionality” is the core of this answer. Enough advocates have fought to ensure inclusivity at all levels is a priority. Although we have a long way to go, I’ve never felt the type of welcoming environment in any other city in the same way as I’ve felt it here in D.C. What the city can improve upon Our LGBTQ+ elders, youth [and] homeless need support. Each of these demographics [has] specific needs that can be met if intention, along with dollars, are put behind seeing these problems alleviated. No elder should be forced to die alone, no youth should be faced with food/housing disparit[ies], and the homeless should be housed. It’s appalling in our nation’s capital these problems even exist!

What you’re looking forward to most this summer Performing (safely) in front of audiences, being compensated appropriately, [and] working to ensure entertainers have more places to work [since] so many clubs are now permanently closed. @aaronlmyers // www.aaron2.me

MONIKA NEMETH (she/her/hers) Commissioner of the Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 3F06 | Chair of the ANC Rainbow Caucus Words to live by Always do right by others.

Your impact on the District I have had an impact in D.C. by being the first openly trans person elected to office as an ANC Commissioner. In addition to serving my constituents, it has given me a greater forum through which I can advocate for the LGBTQ+ community in general, particularly for trans women of color, LGBTQ+ youth and LQBTQ+ seniors. I was one of the founders of the ANC Rainbow Caucus in 2019, which brought together LGBTQ+ ANC Commissioners from across D.C. to work together on issues [that] are important to the LGBTQ+ community and advocate for the community within the District government.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community The District has the highest per-capita population of LGBTQ+ persons because it is an open, welcoming cosmopolitan city that also has strict civil rights laws that protect LGBTQ+ people.

What the city can improve upon Through the funding of necessary programs. Much of the LGBTQ+ community struggles economically and during the Covid crisis were hit hard. The things for which I advocate are not simply nice-to-have items, but are in fact critical needs for members of our society who are most at risk.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer Going swimming at Banneker Pool and seeing all my friends I haven’t seen in person in over a year. @TheMonikaNemeth on Twitter and Instagram

RIGHT PAGE. Clockwise from top. Aaron Myers. Peter Morgan. Photos courtesy of subjects. Monica Nemeth. Photo by Ted Eytan.

DISTRICT FRAY | 69

LIFE

ERIC NORTH (he/him)

CARL PARKER III (he/him)

CEO of Performance Rejuvenation Center | Managing Partner of Stretch Works | “The Happiness Warrior” Motivational Speaker, Writer + TV Personality

Head Bartender + Manager at Town Tavern DC

Words to live by Every day is a great day!

Your impact on the District I’m a multi-business owner and job creator in D.C. My mission is to provide a safe, empowering, and inclusive environment for everyone.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community Diversity, and the sense of community that develops from it, is our strength over many other cities that I’ve visited and worked in. I always miss D.C. and its people when I’m out of town.

Coming home always feels good!

What the city can improve upon The more visibility, the better. We can change the world!

What you’re looking forward to most this summer Making new friends and creating more opportunities for everyone. www.prcindc.com // www.stretchworkz.com // www.thehappinesswarrior1.com

BRENDAN PADGETT (he/him) Director of Public Relations at the Kennedy Center

Words to live by As long as I make a positive impact on at least one person’s life each day I’ve done my duty as a human!

Your impact on the District Within this industry it has definitely been a journey. As a gay man working in a “straight” bar, I worked very hard to create a safe space for all people within our community to come in and have a great time! The pandemic was a blessing in a sense because it allowed us to create a different culture to make this is a safe space for queer people, especially Black and brown queer people.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community D.C. is such a blended city that it welcomes all.

What the city can improve upon I believe that the city can improve in making queer safe spaces for Black [people] and POC [people of color] more welcoming!

A lot of Black and POC people within [our] community do not feel welcome at certain queer spaces here in D.C. and that NEEDS TO BE CHANGED! I would also like to see more resources for LGBTQ+ youth to give them guidance through their journey because coming [out] isn’t the end but just the beginning of figuring out who you are.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer I am excited just [to] be outside again and hug my friends. Oh, and BOTTOMLESS BRUNCH!

Words to live by To quote my favorite movie, “Auntie Mame”: “Live! Life’s a banquet, and most poor suckers are starving to death!”

@cp_daboss23

Your impact on the District I often joke that what I do is “bring jazz hands to the people,” but in reality, I have the best job in the world: I get to share the stories of artists from D.C. and around the world whose work reflects the rich spectrum of the human experience.

Co-founder of as you are bar

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community The diversity of this city is its greatest strength, and I like to think that most of its citizens know it. Not only is the community welcoming, but it shows up when it matters: in support, in activism and in celebration.

What the city can improve upon The past year has been difficult on all of us, but many LGBTQ+ artists and performers have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. And yet we have all turned to art — whether on screens or in distanced settings — to get us through. It is time to pay them back, D.C. So, as we begin to reopen, be sure to get out there and support these amazing people who have done so much for our spirits.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer I can’t wait to get into all of D.C.’s amazing performing arts venues. There is NOTHING like a communal live arts experience with other humans. I’ve missed that so much! @brenpadg // www.kennedy-center.org 70 | SUMMER 2021

RACH PIKE (she/they/daddy) Words to live by The safest place on the planet is a vulnerable heart. I also love LOVE! Often, when I’m having a tough time thinking clearly or getting quiet I will ask myself, “What is the most loving thing I can do right now?”

Your impact on the District My impact on the District professionally is very personal.

I have been honored to work in securing safe spaces for the LGBTQIA+ community for the last four years, and it is my passion. My objective is to support and prioritize marginalized people in industry spaces, the LGBTQIA+ community and the D.C. community at large.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community D.C. is a welcoming city for LGBTQIA+ because the community is making it such. We are taking up space as queers, we are creating leagues by and for queers, we are opening up spaces by and for queers, and we are just out living our lives. The world can adjust because we are here.

What the city can improve upon The city has work to do, and we have work to do within the LGBTQIA+ community. It is my wish, and my efforts are focused on, true anti-oppression versus just being anti-my-oppression.

RIGHT PAGE. Clockwise from top. Eric North. Photo by Tony Powell.

Brendan Padgett. Photo by Tracey Salazar. Rach Pike. Carl Parker III. Photos courtesy of subjects.

DISTRICT FRAY | 71

LIFE In a nutshell, I believe that is where the opportunity lives. Too often, people fight against their own oppression and stick their head in the sand when they see others oppressed differently.

We need to keep pressing on to tear down the systems built to oppress and build systems — at every level— that are antioppressive for all.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer Opening as you are bar with Jo McDaniel and this community!

We are so excited to open this space and team up with the LGBTQIA+ community it serves to create it for all of us.

We know we are only two people in this community and our representation is limited, so we are working diligently to develop this space with the voices and perspectives of many, especially the communities of people the two of us do not represent. @asyouarebar on Instagram + TikTok // @theycallmecoach25 on Instagram // www.asyouarebar.com + www.fb.com/asyouarebarevents

BRITT RHEAULT (she/her/hers) Senior Director of Sports at DC Fray Words to live by “Tough times don’t last. Tough people do.” - Sue Bird, Seattle Storm guard // former UConn Husky player Your impact on the District My impact has been community building: bringing people together and doing whatever I can, and we as a company can, to make fun possible and bring experiences to everyone who joins the Fray community. The LGBTQ-focused leagues we’ve offered in the past have given a safer place for everybody to participate in.

Additionally, through our virtual side of the house, I’ve had a lot of experience running our speed dating and other LGBTQ events.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community D.C. is very progressive and has become a much bluer space, which creates a safer area for the LGBTQ+ community. But for my core focus of the lesbian side of the community, there isn’t a major outlet for us. There’s a rotating outlet of different places to go at different times, and we have ALOHO [A League of Her Own], but in comparison to the amount of bars for gay men in this city, what we have is not even close to what they have.

What the city can improve upon The city could be more proactive in supporting not only the lesbian community, but the trans community, too. We need more support, funding and pushing to have a safe space for everybody that’s involved, not just the gay men of D.C. We need more representation in other categories of the LGBTQ+ community, not only in the bar scene but just in general for things around the city.

SHADY ROSE (they/them/theirs) Co-Executive Director of Girls Rock! DC | Manager of Events + Publicity at Lost City Books | Lead Singer of Lightmare | Cofounder of Theater + Live Art Group CodAko Entertainment Words to live by Life is too short not to be kind and earnest, to pursue your passions and values to their utmost, or to use every ounce of your energy building the better world and better life you want to see. But life is also too long not to take time to breathe, rest, find joy (both small and large), and to let quiet and stillness restore and strengthen you. Also, ghosts and aliens are real.

Your impact on the District As a multidisciplinary arts and humanities person native to D.C., I have had the opportunity to build my internal values of cultural heritage, equity and justice into the pillars of who I am. This allows me to offer those experiences and values to all aspects of my work, whether it’s helping young people explore music/ the arts and social justice through Girls Rock! DC; cultivating a progressive and informed readership at Lost City Books; melting faces with the anti-racist/anti-fascist lyrics at Lightmare shows; or writing and producing important under-told queer stories with CodAko Entertainment. I try my best to move through life not just with a positive impact but knowing that the future my community wants to build must be built in all corners.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community If you are queer in D.C., you might have heard it said that the LGBTQIA+ community in D.C. is “super small.” I think that’s true in some ways, but the reality is that there are SO many different walks of life in this community, so many different backgrounds, experiences, ages, ethnicities, creeds etc. There is a place for every beautiful aspect of what it means to be queer to each person, and furthermore, there is so much acceptance and overlap [among] these facets. It’s not that it’s small. It’s that we are a really strong, widely connected community.

What the city can improve upon D.C. residents know what I mean when I say that this city has a few different layers of reality. There are those with the wealth and privilege to never know life-altering misfortune, then those who were born into or have fallen into really hard times, or have suffered injustices due to state violence. There is an incredible community of people trying to help bridge that gap and work towards a city where all people are safe and cared for. Despite this, the needs of unhoused and impoverished trans and queer folks, the needs of trans and queer sex workers, the needs of disabled and chronically ill people in our communities are not nearly prioritized enough.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer Oh man, hot girl summer. It’s going to be lit. There’s going to be a lot happening. Just seeing everybody again is going to be fantastic. There’s a lot of people I’ve stayed in touch with and seen through video, but it is very exciting that we’ll be getting back to our routines of seeing each other out and participating in day and evening activities together.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer As D.C. reopens, I’m just looking forward to seeing the faces of my friends and community more often again. I want us to dance and celebrate each other — safely, of course. I’m excited for live music and performing arts to return to the stages. Most of all, I’m really excited for all those special little parties we throw for each other: fancy tea party in the park? Yes, please. Queer yoga on the rooftop? Excellent, yes thank you! Drag shows in a transformed warehouse? Take my money!

@theofficialb.ro // www.dcfray.com

@mobius.rex // www.shadyrose.com

72 | SUMMER 2021

RIGHT PAGE. From top. Britt Rheault. Photo by Monica Alford. Shady Rose. Photo by Kimchi Photography.

DISTRICT FRAY | 73

LIFE

TIFFANY LYN ROYSTER (she/they)

What the city can improve upon Fund Casa Ruby and end violence against homeless, trans youth. We need better policy!

Singer | Actress | Performing Artist | Parade Chair for the Capital Pride Alliance Words to live by What’s for me is for me, and no one can take that from me. I’m a bad bitch even on days I don’t feel like it. Get with it or dip!

What you’re looking forward to most this summer Launching the DC Pickleball Club, where I’ll be giving lessons as a certified pickleball coach, and sailing Flying Scots at Belle Haven Marina in my downtime.

Your impact on the District I think my impact is loving! I’m a firm believer in the energy you put out is what you get back. I’ve worked hard on myself, and it shows outwardly in my performance, my communication with folx and my work with Capital Pride Alliance. I’m able to reach people with my voice and action in ways that are truly beautiful.

@biancarussofitness // www.biancarussofitness.com + @dcpickleballclub // www.dcpickleballclub.org

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community Honestly, there is no place like D.C. It is a melting pot of LGBTQ+ folx and there is a place for everyone!

What the city can improve upon The city can increase and improve support [for] the LGBTQ+ community by NOT cutting funding and filtering it into services that directly support, work with and [are] for the community, i.e., housing, jobs and social services. Support LGBTQ+ businesses, performers and social services, especially BIPOC. What you’re looking forward to most this summer I’m most excited about spending time with family and friends and supporting restaurants and businesses I haven’t been able to. I am also excited to get back onstage! @talesoftiffanylyn // www.totiffanylyn.com

BIANCA RUSSO (she/her) Owner of Bianca Russo Fitness Her fitness company is an all-virtual community for LGBTQIA2S+ people looking to get active, and is also ED (eating disorder) recovery safe.

Words to live by We are capable of SO MUCH as humans, which is why I live by the simple phrase: “You got this.” For better or for worse, I have no fear.

Your impact on the District My instinct is to remain humble. But, if I had to say, I would think that I have helped people in larger bodies access physical activity in a way that, perhaps, they had not previously been able to. Bianca Russo Fitness does not fat-shame or make assumptions about abilities. This has impacted the physical health and mental wellness of Washingtonians before and throughout the pandemic.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community D.C. is an inherently diverse community, and I think our progressive politics have a lot to do with the city being so accepting of differences, which is why we need representation!

However, we have a long way to go. Ever get into an Uber with a transphobic driver who is blasting gospel music and asking too many personal questions? It can still be scary out there, especially for our Black and POC neighbors.

74 | SUMMER 2021

ELLA SCHIRALLI (she/her/hers) Tour Guide with A Tour Of Her Own (TOHO) Words to live by Be curious and celebrate diversity! The more you learn, the more you grow. You can make growing a lifelong journey.

Your impact on the District I accidentally found that tour guiding is a perfect profession for me. I get to be outdoors, meet new people, and celebrate the vibrant cultural heritage of Washington, D.C. With a little creativity, I can write everyone into the stories of the District in a way that is inspiring and memorable.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community My peers challenged me to create a queer history of Washington, D.C. tour. Through this process, I realized how central our city is to the struggle for human rights. Whether [people are] marching, protesting or keeping vigil at the Supreme Court, this city has created a nurturing community that’s out and proud! The American promise of liberty and justice for all is celebrated by D.C.’s colorful vibe.

What the city can improve upon We benefit from living in a city with a mayor, Muriel Bowser, who supports the queer community. Today, it is more important than ever to showcase the intersectionality of race, gender and sexual identity. More work needs to be done in our marginalized communities at risk of discrimination and violence, especially trans women of color. Strategic partnerships with organizations like the Human Rights Campaign can advance training in the public service sector to make sure everyone in our community is respected, protected and can live a fully authentic life.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer Getting back out “on the street” with family, friends and guests.

It was necessary to stay safe and protect each other during this pandemic. As D.C. begins to reopen, it will be fantastic to laugh, engage and celebrate together in a city that holds so many treasures! @atourofherown + #TOHOdc // info@atourofherown.com

RIGHT PAGE. Clockwise from top. Tiffany Lyn Royster. Photo courtesy of subject.

Bianca Russo. Photo by Zayn Thiam. Ella Schiralli. Photo by Cynthia Schiavetto Staliunas of Schiavetto Studios.

DISTRICT FRAY | 75

LIFE

SLOANE A.L. SPENCER (they/them/theirs) Production Administrator at Shakespeare Theatre Company Words to live by Fate loves the fearless!

Your impact on the District At work, I’m known as a mentor and point person for trans and nonbinary employees and artists. I want to make sure they are respected and taken care of.

What the city can improve upon There needs to be more support for people of trans experience.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer First dates and running into friends at The Midlands. @sloanedotstar // www.shakespearetheatre.org

BOBBI ELAINE STRANG (she/her) VP of Strategy at GLAA (Gay and Lesbian Activists Alliance) Words to live by Showing kindness is always a good look.

Your impact on the District I like to think that in my own small ways, I have helped to make Washington, D.C. a better place to live for the LGBT community.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community On the books, we have some of the nation’s most progressive legislation and regulations to protect the rights of the LGBT community. Also, we have a wonderful and vibrant out LGBT community.

What the city can improve upon The city has done a lot of the easy things to assist the LGBT community. It’s time for the city to start doing some of the hard things, which involves using the resources of the District to support the rights of the LGBT community. First and foremost, the Office of Human Rights needs to be adequately funded to properly enforce the DC Human Rights Act. Our rights are not truly protected unless there is timely enforcement when our rights are not respected.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer Just having places open and a variety of things to do will be nice.

Also, I am looking forward to traveling at some point this year. www.glaa.org; www.lesfauxcurs.bandcamp.com

ALLI VEGA (she/her)

Talent Buyer for DC9 Nightclub | Musician Check out her solo project Scorpio @scorpio.mp3.

Words to live by “Why not?” I saw it painted on a wall a few years ago, and even though it’s so simple and small, it stuck with me. It’s just the PG way of saying, “F--k it.”

Your impact on the District Most people know me through the music scene here, so through 76 | SUMMER 2021

both my job and my bands I try to connect and maintain relationships with creative people I find around the city and connect them to each other. I’ve also been doing a queer skate group with some friends on Fridays at Meridian Hill Park, which has been a highlight of my past year and I hope has been for others as well!

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community There’s a lot of reasons, but the other day I was talking with my roommate about how something that’s nice about D.C. is that there’s not just one queer neighborhood, it’s very spread out. It’s nice to know that if I wanted to go on a date somewhere that’s not a “gay bar” I could do it mostly without thinking twice.

What the city can improve upon There’s always room for improvement. In particular, providing support and visibility to the more vulnerable members of the LGBTQ+ community (i.e., trans, BIPOC individuals) is extremely important. The past year, I think we’ve seen a lot of mutual aid movements gain momentum that place more emphasis on communities looking out for each other. While I think that’s great and I love the idea of caring for each other locally, I think [it] also [reflects] how broken our system currently is.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer CONCERTS. But apart from that, to be entirely honest, I’ve just wanted to do indoor activities with my friends! Something like bowling or an escape room or seeing a movie. I would love to be able to host a cookout at my house for anyone who wants to come through. I’m an extremely social creature, so I’m just excited to hang out with people more. @allivega or find her at DC9 sometime

WHIT WASHINGTON, ESQ. (they/them) Attorney | Manager of Criminal Justice for Arnold Ventures | Supporter of the TGI Justice Project in Oakland, California + Law4BlackLives DC jail support line Their focus as an attorney is on dismantling and abolishing the criminal legal system within the U.S. Words to live by “True community is based upon equality, mutuality and reciprocity.

It affirms the richness of individual diversity as well as the common human ties that bind us together.” - Rev. Dr. Pauli Murray Your impact on the District More than the impact I have had on the city, the impact that the city has had on me is that it has given me the language and allowed me to develop the expertise to support people who get caught in the criminal legal system. Through my work with the Public Defender Service for D.C. and Law4BlackLives DC jail support, I have had the opportunity to give back to the D.C. community by addressing the issues people face when they encounter the criminal legal system at different stages.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community Part of why the city is so welcoming for the LGBTQI+ community is that there are just so many LGBTQI+ folks in the city. There is a critical mass of LGBTQI+, so the diversity of LGBTQI+ people living here ensures there is a space — whether it is physical or emotional — and a people for everyone.

RIGHT PAGE. Sloane A.L. Spencer. Photo courtesy of subject. Alli Vega. Photo by Kimchi Photography. Whit Washington, Esq. Bobbi Elaine Strang. Photos courtesy of subjects.

LAST PAGE. From top. Dr. Imani Woody. Photo by Sarah L. Voisin // The Washington Post. Jamie Lynn. Photo by Trent Johnson.

DISTRICT FRAY | 77

What the city can improve upon I think the city can increase or improve its support [for] the LGBTQI+ community by centering the needs of BIPOC LGBTQI+ D.C. natives. One way to do this is to redistribute resources from MPD’s budget into free and culturally competent housing, free and culturally competent healthcare, free and culturally competent education, an affordable meal program, and enough money to take time off of work. Access to resources is as close as anyone can get to liberation within a capitalist system.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer I am the most excited about enjoying the city and the weather again and going on cute dates with my partner. D.C. is such a beautiful city, and not being able to experience it because it has been closed has been heartbreaking. @boisquire // www.whitwashingtonesq.com

DR. IMANI WOODY (she/her/hers) Founder + CEO of Mary’s House for Older Adults, Inc. Words to live by “I made a difference [to] that one.” - “The Star Thrower” (or “starfish story”) by Loren Eiseley Your impact on the District My impact in D.C. is to create sight among its citizens of the presence of LGBTQ/SGL [same gender loving] elders and advocating solutions so that their specific needs, particularly in housing [and] social isolation, be addressed.

How D.C. supports the LGBTQ+ community One reason is that we have an exhaustive list of some of the best rules and regulations of any city or state banning discrimination. One cannot be discriminated by reason of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, familial status, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, genetic information, disability, source of income,

LGBTQ+ ALLIES IN THE DISTRICT There’s no lack of allies in the D.C. area, but here are a few locals our interviewees asked us to shout out for their commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community.

Lemz’s Picks

Ella Schiralli’s Picks

Amber Bursik + Bill Speiler, DC9 @dc9club // www.dc9.club

Mayor Muriel Bowser @mayor_bowser // www.mayor.dc.gov

Brandt Ricca’s Picks Elyse Braner, Pacers Running @runpacers // www.runpacers.com Caity Byrne, All About Balloons @allaboutballoonsus // www.allaboutballoons.com Joshua Hockemeyer, Equinox @equinox // www.equinox.com Jamie Lynn, The Shop at Shaw @theshopatshaw // | SUMMER 2021 78 www.theshopatshaw.com

Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton @congresswomannorton // www.norton.house.gov Dr. Imani Woody’s Pick Kirstan Fuller, Seabury Resources for Aging @seaburyresources // www.seaburyresources.org/ lgbtq-programs

status as a victim of an intrafamily offense, place of residence or business, and status as a victim or family member of a victim of domestic violence, a sexual offense, or stalking. AND these rules are enforced for a welcoming place to be.

What the city can improve upon More money and other resources can be provided to increase affordable housing across the board, but especially for LGBTQ/ SGL. Encourage more cultural competence training, not only for D.C. government employees but [for] the agencies and organizations that receive funding, and/or resources from the city.

What you’re looking forward to most this summer Hosting some communal dining experiences (do I hear cookouts?) for our constituents and our biological and logical families. info@maryshousedc.org // www.maryshousedc.org

District Fray’s

Outdoor Dining Guide

From sleek rooftop bars with panoramic views of the city to charming patios offering an intimate experience, the District has you covered this summer for all of your outdoor dining needs. Read on for some of our top picks for where to grab a cocktail or bite to eat while soaking up the sun or enjoying the evening breeze — and avoiding cicadas along the way.

EXPERIENCE THE FINE LIFE THIS SUMMER AT THESE PATIOS: AMERICAN ICE COMPANY

FLASH

MACINTYRE’S

GRAND CENTRAL

PROPER 21

THE BRIGHTON

IRISH CHANNEL RESTAURANT & PUB

PUBLIC BAR

CACTUS CANTINA

KELLY’S IRISH TIMES

DON JUAN

KIRWAN’S ON THE WHARF

THE BRIG

ÉL BEBE EL TECHO

SURFSIDE TIKI TNT & POTOMAC DISTILLING COMPANY UNION PUB

THE MIDLANDS BEER GARDEN

Relax responsibly®. Corona Extra®, Corona Light® and Corona Premier® Beers. Imported by Crown Imports, Chicago, IL. Corona Light: Per 12 fl. oz. serving average analysis: Cals 99, Carbs 5.0g, Protein 0.8g, Fat 0.0 g. Corona Premier: Per 12 fl. oz. serving average analysis: Cals 90, Carbs 2.6 g, Protein 0.7 g, Fat 0.0 g.

NOTE. All descriptions were provided by the restaurants and bars, who are paid advertisers with the magazine.

AMERICAN ICE COMPANY American Ice Company is a neighborhood joint with swachos, beers, whiskey and picklebacks. The outdoor patio and drinking room with a large garage door are available five days a week. The large garage door will be open on most days when the weather allows for maximum circulation. 917 V St. NW, DC; 202-414-7930; www.amicodc.com

PATIO GUIDE

THE BRIG This year-round tavern features liters of German brews, plus eats such as bratwurst and pretzels. 1007 8th St. SE, DC; 202-675-1000; www.thebrigdc.com

CACTUS CANTINA

THE BRIGHTON This Hilton Brothers watering hole offers a prime waterfront location and British seaside-themed pub grub. 949 Wharf St. SW, DC; 202-735-5398; www.brighton-dc.com

Cactus Cantina is a fun, engaging, casual, family-friendly restaurant serving the best Tex-Mex specialties in the Washington area. Cactus Cantina resembles a true, authentic Tex-Mex cantina with the capacity to host over 300 guests.

While best-known for its awesome Tex-Mex menu, the restaurant also serves Cuban, Spanish and South American dishes. 3300 Wisconsin Ave. NW, DC; 202-686-7222; www.cactuscantina.com DISTRICT FRAY | 81

PATIO GUIDE

DON JUAN

ÉL BEBE

This modest, brightly colored restaurant and bar with sidewalk seating offers Central American fare. 1660 Lamont St. NW, DC; 202-667-0010; www.donjuanrestaurantdc.com

Él Bebe is a tribute to those that work hard and deserve all the tacos and tequila they can handle. This is a judgmentfree taco zone that applauds the grind as well as the unwind.

The restaurant is here for a great atmosphere to connect and appreciate “unwinding” done right. The thing about tacos is, they really are the perfect food. They can be made clean and healthy, vegan or carnivorous, but always fresh and without all the processed junk. You can be a taco glutton and still use quality ingredients. 99 M St. #120, SE, DC; 202-863-2323; www.el-bebe.com

EL TECHO

FLASH

El Techo, led by owner Louie Hawkins, welcomes Washington to its tropical vacation-transporting design on a heated 1100-square-foot roof deck, which can be enclosed or open-air depending on weather, in D.C.’s Shaw neighborhood. El Techo is serving up handcrafted cocktails, Latin-inspired tapas and entrees, and plenty of vacation vibes. El Techo’s rooftop is available for full or partial buyouts. Menus for El Techo and sister restaurant Rito Loco’s are available for private parties, and will work with guests to create a custom party. 606 Florida Ave. NW, DC; 202-836-4270; www.eltechodc.com 82 | SUMMER 2021

Flash opened its doors in June of 2013 as a collaboration between longtime lovers of music, former DJs and music industry vets.

Their goal was to present an intimate space where artists can express themselves clearly and fans can hear their favorite artists in an ideal setting. The rooftop, or Green Room, features a third DJ booth, dance floor, and a fully retractable top and bifold doors to enjoy the open air. The dance floor is surrounded by greenery, lounge seating and views of D.C. The extended bar menu on the roof features frozen cocktails, organic juices and kombucha.

645 Florida Ave. NW, DC; 202-827-8791; www.flashdc.com

IRISH CHANNEL RESTAURANT & PUB GRAND CENTRAL Grand Central serves delicious classic American favorites year-round for dinner, Monday through Sunday from 6-10 p.m. You’re sure to find the perfect meal for a weekend brunch or casual dinner as you unwind from a long day at work. And don’t forget to check out the drink specials available from their friendly and attentive staff. There’s always a great deal on the menu, no matter your drink of choice. 2447 18th St. NW, DC; 202-986-1742; www.grandcentraldc.com

The Irish Channel serves only fresh produce, fish and meat in its restaurant and buys locally grown whenever possible. The pub emanates a wonderful character that will make you feel just like you’re in Dublin. Live entertainment is offered four nights a week (Wednesday through Saturday) where the restaurant and pub features local, renowned Irish singers and musicians. The specials change daily, so you will never be bored eating there.

When the weather is nice, come check out the sidewalk patio where you can dine casually or enjoy your favorite libation while listening to the soothing bells of Saint Mary’s church across the street. Come by yourself or bring the entire family to this local favorite. 500 H St. NW, DC; 202-216-0046; www.irishchanneldc.com

KELLY’S IRISH TIMES

KIRWAN’S ON THE WHARF

Since 1978, Kelly’s Irish Times has helped provide lifelong memories to multiple generations of Washingtonians and visitors. The outdoor patio and streatery provide picturesque views of Union Station and the Smithsonian National Postal Museum, and are conveniently located near Capitol Hill. With over a dozen beers on draft, delicious pub grub and the best prices on high-end liquor in town, Kelly’s Irish Times is sure to make your summer night a memorable one. 14 F St. NW, DC; 202543-5433; www.kellysirishtimesdc.com

In fine weather, Kirwan’s opens its two lovely patios: one just outside the restaurant and one directly on the water bank. In the colder months, retreat indoors to warm up by one of their fireplaces. If you’re as into European sports as they are, you’ll feel right at home enjoying the overseas games they broadcast throughout their different areas. The food and drink menus are available throughout Kirwan’s, so you can indulge in a bite to eat or a drink in any area. 749 Wharf St. SW, DC; 202-554-3818; www.kirwansonthewharf.com DISTRICT FRAY | 83

84 | SUMMER 2021

PATIO GUIDE

THE MIDLANDS BEER GARDEN The Midlands Beer Garden is an oasis of its own with more than 6,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor garden area, vast open seating, and plenty of TVs. The Midlands offers a thoughtful draft and bottled beer selection with a focus on local, European and craft beers, and also has 26 taps, ciders, wines, spirits and draft cocktails. The Park View spot serves up your favorite casual fare with giant pretzels, sandwiches, shareable nachos and vegetarian options. You are also welcome to order in your favorite food to enjoy in their garden. The Midlands is dog-friendly in its garden area and welcomes families. 3333 Georgia Ave. NW, DC; www.midlandsdc.com

MACINTYRE’S Macintyre’s is here to offer a dining experience that is unique to D.C. and exceeds expectations. By selecting the best local ingredients, the restaurant delivers the best seasonal menu.

And to compliment that menu, it offers a wide variety of select premium beers and spirits. The upscale yet comfortable atmosphere offers flexible gathering spaces for all occasions.

2621 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; 202-506-3427; www.macintyresdc.com

PROPER 21 Proper 21 is a restaurant-forward sporting club serving allAmerican classics with a gourmet twist created by executive chef Steve Forbes. The space maintains the modern aesthetic and New York style of its Manhattan locations, which have best been described as “Tom Ford meets Thomas Edison.” The restaurant provides state-of-the-art audio and visual for sports, corporate functions, nightlife and other events. 1319 F St. NW, DC; 202-847-3674; www.propersocial.com DISTRICT FRAY | 85

PATIO GUIDE

PUBLIC BAR LIVE Public Bar Live is D.C.’s premier sports bar. Specializing in a live sports viewing experience, as well as a first class music hall, Public Bar Live is the only place you need. They have over fifty big screens that show all major sporting events, including international soccer and college sports. The stage will host many local musicians, as well as national touring artists. On the weekends, take in the sounds of the DJ from the dance floor, or enjoy bottle service at one of their tables. State-of-the-art sound and lighting systems create an all-encompassing experience.

1214 18th St. NW, DC; 202-223-2200; www.publicbarlive.com

TIKI TNT & POTOMAC DISTILLING COMPANY Tiki TNT is a lively bar connected to Thrasher’s Rum. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a bit of rest and relaxation in the heart of Washington, D.C. 1130 Maine Ave. SW, DC; 202-900-4786; www.tikitnt.com 86 | SUMMER 2021

SURFSIDE Since opening in 2008, Surfside has established itself as one of D.C.’s favorite spots for the best tacos, burritos and fresh-Mex in town. It’s the go-to gathering place for families and friends to relax over margaritas and tasty food. For your favorite Surfside dishes 24 hours a day, visit the Surfside Taco Stand in Dupont Circle.

4200 Wisconsin Ave. NW, DC; 202-733-3239; www.surfsidedc.com

UNION PUB Watch sports live on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. in a relaxed and friendly neighborhood bar. Visit for great food and drinks. 201 Massachusetts Ave. NE, DC; 202-546-7200; www.unionpubdc.com

DISTRICT FRAY | 87

88 | SUMMER 2021

LIFE

The Road Less

Traveled The Asian American Entrepreneurship Experience

W

WORDS BY ALICE HU

hat determines our reality? What are we capable of creating?

Our culture, heritage, upbringing, media and communities affect our subconscious and, thus, what we believe we can achieve. Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) are underrepresented in almost all industries and in executive leadership roles.

A 2012 study from the Pew Research Center reports that Asian Americans are the “highest-income, best-educated and fastest-growing racial group in the U.S.” Yet in a Harvard Business Review analysis, they were found less likely than any other race to be promoted into management. This is known as the bamboo ceiling.

In entrepreneurship, AAPIs are even less represented. When you’re underrepresented in the space you want to explore, it makes it more difficult to take the first step.

For many, pursuing entrepreneurship is a luxury and privilege because of its risks — risks that many children of immigrants may be afraid to take because of the uncertainty. As someone who danced around entrepreneurship for almost 10 years before acknowledging that it’s part of who I am and what I’m meant to do and taking the leap, I know this all too well.

My parents came to the United States to give me a better life, which they defined as a 9 to 5 job. Years ago, when I pursued entrepreneurship full-time, I felt guilt as I gave up the opportunity to make more money than my parents to pursue a dream that had no guarantees. I experienced many fears of failure, disappointment and shame but ultimately knew that this life was something I needed to explore.

Rosie Nguyen, founder of Rose Ave Bakery in downtown D.C., felt similarly when she started her business, which is a little over a year old.

“My biggest fear was that the bakery would be a failure — that my grand ideas would not translate well into the real world and we would be a flop,” Nguyen shares with me. “As big as my fears were, I learned a lot from my food journey and was able to learn from my mistakes. I owed it to myself to at least try my best.”

Sonal Shah, who founded The Om Room in the District, echoes these sentiments when we speak.

Rosie Nguyen. Photo courtesy of subject.

“The biggest challenge for me was simply believing that all the pieces were going to come together,” Shah says. “Is it really going to work? I did all of the research and had a very detailed visualization of the concept, but actually taking those first steps to bring it to life — that was the hard part.”

Nguyen’s parents were hesitant about her leaving her stable nursing job, so she kept the day job and worked part-time in food and beverage until she felt ready to make the switch.

Starting a business can seem daunting. Where do you start? But just starting is the most important part.

Shah, who sells natural aromatherapy and energy products, says she worried about making that first purchase, figuring out packaging, setting up an e-commerce channel and learning how to ship, among many other tasks. Since these tasks were completely new to her, it was hard to believe she was going to be able to actually pull it off. This fear kept her stuck in analysis paralysis.

It’s easy to get caught up in the minutiae of business before you even start one. The resounding advice from Nguyen and Shah is to just take the first step. From there, you’ll be able to figure things out, but that first leap is always the most difficult.

Entrepreneurship is a test in believing in yourself. It’s trusting in your intuition and choosing faith over fear.

“You don’t know what you’re capable of until you try it,” says Amy Chase, founder of The Crescendo Group, a nonprofit working to end domestic violence and sexual assault toward AAPI individuals, and president of ACE NextGen DC, which supports the AAPI entrepreneur community. “You also don’t know what works and what doesn’t until you put it to the test.”

So many people get stuck in this prestart phase. How do you stop thinking and start doing? By connecting with those who are living the life you desire. I reached out to other business owners and surrounded myself with those who were creating and innovating before I started my own business.

When you’re able to see someone who is somewhat relatable (whether it’s their background, culture or race) pursuing a similar dream, it allows you to believe it’s a possibility for yourself. It makes it easier to try something new when you know others have done the same. This is why diversity and inclusivity are crucial across all industries.

DISTRICT FRAY | 89

“My advice specifically for AAPI women is we need more diversity of ideas, products and leadership in this space,” Chase says. “This is why if an AAPI woman has a business idea, I always encourage her to take the leap. Then I point her to resources such as ACE NextGen, Asian Hustle Network and other like-minded groups.”

If you’re thinking about entrepreneurship, where do you start if you have no idea what you want to do but are curious about creating something? Shah routinely listened to podcast interviews with female CEOs about their journeys, which helped her learn that each of them figured it out along the way. No one was a natural expert at all of these first steps.

“Take that initial step forward toward a goal you’ve always wanted to explore,” Nguyen says. “Learn from the experts [and] make mistakes because it will give you the opportunity to do it better next time. Take many little steps in learning your craft. When it’s time, all those little steps will give you the confidence to take that leap.”

And it doesn’t need to be all or nothing, black or white, full-time entrepreneur or bust.

Exploring a side hustle or passion is a great starting point. I had side hustles for years before committing to entrepreneurship fulltime. Chase redefines entrepreneurship as the ability to innovate while taking on risks.

“It’s when you’re using your business as an outlet to pursue passions and interests you can’t find in your 9 to 5,” she says.

The most important advice I give to entrepreneurs is to make sure your mindset is working for you rather than against you.

It’s easy to get stuck in negative thought loops. Cultivating a growth mindset is crucial to addressing the ups of downs of creating something of your own. Believe in yourself even when others may question your ideas.

Your mindset will be the key to your success.

Learn more about Nguyen and Rose Ave Bakery at www.roseavebakery.com. Shop for Shah’s products at www.etsy.com/shop/theomroom. Learn more about Chase and her pursuits at www.thecrescendogroupllc.com and www.acenextgen.org. Follow on Instagram @roseavebakery, @theomroomco, @thecrescendogroupllc and @acenextgen, respectively.

Hu is the founder of Woo Woo Company, a guide to all things woo, spiritual and holistic health.

Connect with her via 202-918-3414 to join in on abundance meditation challenges, the “Into the Woo” podcast or hello@woowoocompany.com.

She works with clients 1:1 to help them discover their purpose and navigate their Saturn return to live a life beyond their wildest dreams.

FROM TOP. Sonal Shah of The Om Room.

Photo courtesy of subject. Alice Hu. Photo by Tina Leu Fotos.

Amy Chase. Photo courtesy of subject.

SUMMER ESCAPE

Exploring Capitol Riverfront

From riverfront recreation to brand-new waterfront dining options, Capitol Riverfront is a vibrant place to explore. Read on for our rundown of what to do and where to go in this neighborhood all summer long.

Capitol Riverfront. Photo by Sam Kittner.

CAPITAL RIVERFRONT

10 Ways to Explore Outdoors in Capitol Riverfront This Summer WORDS BY INGRID HARBO

With a view of the Anacostia River, miles of recreation trails, open-air sports stadiums and multiple parks, you don’t have to go far to enjoy the outdoors in Capitol Riverfront. From athletes and sports fans to nature lovers and everybody in-between, the neighborhood has an outdoor activity for everybody to enjoy. Read on for the best ways to get outside in Capitol Riverfront this summer.

Rent a Kayak from Ballpark Boathouse

Discover Capitol Riverfront from the Anacostia River with a Ballpark Boathouse kayak rental. Anticipated to open this summer after a pandemic hiatus, the boathouse offers single and double kayak rentals at hourly rates, and season passes for a summer of paddling. Ballpark Boathouse: Potomac Avenue + First Street in SE, DC; www.boatingindc.com // @boatingindc

northern block features an open green space perfect for a picnic followed by yard games. At Yards Park, the terraced lawn steps provide a view of the river and boardwalk for a scenic picnic with friends or family. Canal Park: 200 M St. SE, DC; www.capitolriverfront.org/canal-park // @canalparkdc Yards Park: 355 Water St. SE, DC; www.capitolriverfront.org/yardspark // @yardsparkdc

Run a DIY 5K Along the Anacostia River

Discover the Neighborhood’s Public Art

The 20-mile-long Anacostia Riverwalk Trail runs along both sides of the Anacostia River. Use an app like Strava to map your own 5K course on the trail for yourself and friends. When you finish your run, use the app to post your 5K course as a segment, which other users can then see and run, creating a leaderboard of the fastest times on that stretch of the trail. www.capitolriverfront.org/go/anacostia-riverwalk-trail

Picnic at a Neighborhood Park

Pack a lunch or grab food to go from a local restaurant and bring it to one of the green spaces in the neighborhood. Canal Park’s 92 | SUMMER 2021

Capitol Riverfront is filled with public art including the recent “Beauty of Buzzard Point” mural by Kaliq Crosby and Rose Jaffe, which features D.C. icons like Frederick Douglass and Marvin Gaye. To make sure you don’t miss any of the neighborhood’s art installations, the Capitol Riverfront BID has partnered with Traipse to create a walking tour and puzzle hunt that details the history and design behind the neighborhood’s art. To participate, download the Traipse app, search for Washington, D.C. tours, and find the one titled “Capitol Riverfront – History & Design Hunt.” The Beauty of Buzzard Point: S Street at First Street in SW, DC; www.traipse.co // @gotraipse Trapeze School New York (TSNY)’s Capitol Riverfront location. Photo courtesy of TSNY.

Bike to Nearby Riverfront Destinations

The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail isn’t just for running. Grab your bike or rent one from one of the 11 Capital Bikeshare stations in the neighborhood, and ride to nearby riverfront destinations. The trail runs throughout Anacostia Park and off the trail, the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens and Kingman Island are two bikeable spaces that show off the District’s unique wetland ecosystems.

Anacostia Park: 1900 Anacostia Dr. SE, DC; www.nps.gov/anac // @anacostianationalpark Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens: 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE, DC; www.nps.gov/keaq // @kenilworthnps | Kingman Island: 3101 Benning Rd. NE, DC; www.kingmanisland.com // @doee_dc

Take a Boat Tour with Anacostia Riverkeeper

If you feel like hitting the water without the work of paddling yourself, Anacostia Riverkeeper provides free, educational boat tours funded by D.C.’s disposable bag fee.

On the tour, learn about the history of the river, the environmental challenges it faces today and the conservation work being done to preserve its beauty. In Capitol Riverfront, tours leave from a wheelchair-accessible landing in Diamond Teague Park. Diamond Teague Park: 100 Potomac Ave. SE, DC; www.anacostiariverkeeper.org // @anacostiariverkeeper

Take a Class at Trapeze School New York

At the Trapeze School New York (TSNY), people of all fitness levels and athletic abilities can give the flying trapeze a try. At the hourand-a-half-long first class, beginners learn safety basics and their first off-the-ground trick: a knee hang. After the first class, returning students can build on their basic skills to learn more tricks at their own pace.

TSNY Washington D.C.: 520 Tingey St. SE, DC; www.washingtondc.trapezeschool.com // @tsnydc

Attend a D.C. United Game at Audi Field

Audi Field is welcoming fans back to live sports at a limited capacity in the openair stadium. D.C. United has home games scheduled throughout the summer, with options to purchase tickets for single matches or full-season memberships. Tickets are sold in pods of one to six people, making it the perfect way to reunite with a close group of friends. Audi Field: 1711 First St. SW, DC; www.dcunited.com // @dcunited

Spend the Day at Nationals Park

On home game days, celebrate the Nationals all day in and around Nationals Park.

Before, during or after the game, head to the Bullpen for hot dogs and drinks with friends. During the third through seventh innings, the Bullpen serves drinks at a $5 happy hour price. For a more laidback feel, head to Sandlot Southeast for a coldpressed juice cocktail and food served in partnership with Uber Eats. The Bullpen: 1201 Half St. SE, DC; www.thebullpendc.com // @thebullpendc | Nationals Park: 1500 South Capitol St. SE, DC; www.nationals.com // @nationals | Sandlot Southeast: 71 Potomac Ave. SE, DC; www.sandlotsoutheast.com // @sandlotsoutheast

Take Sailing Lessons with DC Sail

If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to sail, DC Sail is the place for you. Lessons are available for kids and adults with any level of sailing experience. DC Sail also offers themed cruises on their 65-foot schooner, American Spirit, that range from sunset sails to July 4th firework cruises. Diamond Teague Park Piers: 99 Potomac Ave. SE, DC; www.dcsail.org // @dc_sail

FROM TOP. Recreation cycling. Photo courtesy of Capitol Riverfront BID. River recreation. Photo courtesy of Capital SUP.

DISTRICT FRAY | 93

CAPITAL RIVERFRONT

NEIGHBORHOOD GEMS WORDS BY INGRID HARBO Although Covid has created a challenging new environment for businesses, it hasn’t stopped new restaurants, gyms and salons in Capitol Riverfront from opening and surviving over the last year. While new businesses faced challenges like opening at a limited capacity or having to provide to-go service only for months, the neighborhood is now emerging from the pandemic with new life. We rounded up some of the best new food, drink and wellness finds in the neighborhood.

RESTAURANTS Albi

Chef and owner Michael Rafidi describes Albi’s food as a modern take on traditional Levantine cuisine. His menu blends traditional flavors and cooking methods from Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey with local Mid-Atlantic ingredients.

“Everything is specially sourced and there’s a reason why we’re doing this kind of food,” Rafidi says. “We’re educating people on what this food really is. We have a very talented team here sourcing food and developing dishes.” An international wine program featuring wines from the eastern Mediterranean compliments Rafidi’s menu, bringing unique international flavors to Capitol Riverfront. 1346 4th St. SE, DC; www.albidc.com // @albiwashdc 94 | SUMMER 2021

Cliché DC Lunch Pop-Up

The idea for Cliché DC came when Side Door Pizza owner Brian Schram decided to create a new a pop-up restaurant concept.

“We wanted to do what everyone else was doing but do it our own way and make it really simple and delicious,” Schram says.

With an emphasis on convenience, freshness and affordable prices, Cliché DC has an approachable menu with a smash burger running for only $6.50, avocado toast for $9 and tuna niçoise lettuce wraps for $12, among other options. The pop-up is open for lunch on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and customers can pick up their food at Side Door and eat it on the Scarlet Oak patio or take it to go. 909 New Jersey Ave. SE, DC; www.clichedc.com // @cliche_dc

Jackie American Bistro

Drawing inspiration from the 60s and former first lady Jackie Kennedy, Jackie American Bistro serves a taste of classic American cuisine. The concept is the newest endeavor of Dacha Beer Garden and was launched in 2020 after the start of the pandemic. James Beard-nominated chef Jerome Grant’s food paired with trendy modern cocktails and an interior 60s aesthetic creates a restaurant as stylish and iconic as the first lady herself. Jackie is open for takeout, delivery, and indoor and outdoor seating. 79 Potomac Ave. SE, DC; www.jackiedc.com // @jackierestaurant

LEFT PAGE. Albi offerings. Photo by Scott Suchman. RIGHT PAGE. Clockwise from top. Albi cocktail. Photo by Rey Lopez. Cliché DC tuna niçoise lettuce wraps + avocado toast.

Photo by Monica Alford. La Famosa cocktail. Photo by Scott Suchman. La Famosa baked goods. Photo by Scott Suchman. Bearded Goat Barber. Photo courtesy of location.

DISTRICT FRAY | 95

LIFE

Navy Yard’s New Name in Luxury Living Modern Studio, One-and Two-Bedroom Apartment Homes

Schedule Your Exclusive Tour Today 1011 First Street SE, Washington, DC 20003 202.519.3906 | ParcRiverside.com ©Toll DC LP; Toll DC LLC. All copy, plans and artwork contained in or represented by this advertisement and its enclosures are the sole property of the owners. Photos are images only not be 2021 relied upon to confirm applicable features. Images by Jennifer Hughes. Any reproduction of them or other use without the written permission of the | should SUMMER 96 and owners is strictly prohibited. This is not an offering where prohibited by law. 616664 05/21

CAPITOL RIVERFRONT

La Famosa

La Famosa is more than just a restaurant. Inspired by the concept of the Puerto Rican panadería, it’s a restaurant, bakery, all-day café and bar wrapped into one. “It should feel like a little respite or break from city life, almost like a staycation, when you come to see us,” says chef and owner Joancarlo Parkhurst.

He draws from his Puerto Rican upbringing to bring the flavors of the island to D.C. “The food is supposed to be very recognizable as Puerto Rican cuisine, but I also take certain liberties with it using some non-classical ingredients and techniques. Everything should be very Criollo for people who know Criollo food, but at the same time, it is a little bit modified, just ‘cause I can.” La Famosa offers takeout, patio dining and limited indoor seating. 1300 4th St. SE, DC; www.eatlafamosa.com // @eatlafamosa

Maxwell Park

For a wine selection that changes with the seasons – or even faster than the seasons – Maxwell Park’s second and newest location has you covered. The wine bar’s extensive menu changes with quirky monthly themes, which in the past have included Tiger King, Monopoly and Netflix and Chill-ed Reds. Wines are stored in one of four controlled temperature zones to be served at optimal temperatures that bring out the unique notes of each wine. 1346 4th St. SE, DC; www.maxwellparkdc. com // @maxwellpark_navyyard

Swizzler

A food truck turned brick-and-mortar burger shack, Swizzler pairs grassfed beef burgers and unique veggie burgers with thick, house-cut fries for a quick, affordable and sustainable meal. Menu highlights include the bacon cheddar jalapeño burger with thick-cut bacon, candied jalapeños and arugula; The Beet Goes On, a house-made beet burger with goat cheese and candied jalapeños; and Parmesan Truffle Spudz, fries topped with cheese and truffles. Currently, Swizzler is open for takeout and delivery. 1259 1st St. SE, DC; www.swizzlerfoods.com // @swizzlerfoods 9Round. Photo by MFields Photography.

WELLNESS 9Round

Need a quick, full-body workout? Then 9Round is the place for you. The gym’s kickboxingstyle workout takes only 30 minutes and is a high-intensity cardio workout you complete on your own time. In non-pandemic times, 9Round had no class times and instead operated on a circuit model, where patrons could drop in any time and cycle through a series of nine stations, with a new round starting every three minutes. Due to pandemic restrictions, gym-goers currently need to sign up for a time in advance. Co-owner and trainer Krista Ashshaheed described 9Round’s speed as one of its best features and named the Capitol Riverfront community as another. “We’ve had so many members who are new to the area and have found their best friends [at 9Round] in such a short period of time,” Ashshaheed says. 1105 New Jersey Ave. SE, DC; www.9round.com // @9roundnavyyard

Bearded Goat Barber

The team at Bearded Goat Barber aims to give the best cuts in the industry. At the Capitol Riverfront location, the second in the DMV, patrons can treat themselves to a haircut, facial hair trim, and manicures and pedicures. Co-owner Scott Parker explains that creating a great space for a trim, complete with a soundtrack, was one of the main priorities when creating the Bearded Goat brand. Even after the haircut, clients can bring the Bearded Goat vibes home with a Spotify playlist of the carefully curated music played in the shop. “We try to provide a beautiful and inviting space, obviously great cuts, and the best in customer care,” Parker says. 301 Tingey St. Suite 101, SE, DC; www.beardedgoatbarber.com // @beardedgoatbarber

Black Bird Salon

Look no further for the trendiest cut and color in the neighborhood. Black Bird is a womanowned and operated salon with a cozy vibe. Each appointment starts with a consultation to determine your hair needs and provide the best service and product recommendations.

801 Virginia Ave. Suite 101, SE, DC; www.districtblackbird.com // @districtblackbird

Scissors & Scotch

Scissors & Scotch makes a routine barbershop visit into a full-fledged self-care experience. Services range from full-service haircuts and facial hair trims to scalp and hand massages. Each hair service comes with a complimentary drink of choice, with an extensive menu of liquor, cocktails and ontap beers to choose from. 1 M St. Suite 100, SE, DC; www.scissorsscotch.com // @scissorsscotch DISTRICT FRAY | 97

?

CAPITOL RIVERFRONT

HALF STREET IS ROCKING, FULL STOP B a l l p a r k D a y Tr i p s G e t M a j o r U p g r a d e WORDS BY CASEY PAZZALIA We all got used to the inside of our homes during the pandemic. If you’re like me, you probably even dedicated a good portion of bandwidth to some home improvements. No matter how posh the upgrade, it was still just a little short of normal. When the weather got nice and the Nationals started playing again, it was even worse. The new home bar was still at home, and the views from the deck didn’t quite hit the same as a waterfront seat on The Salt Line patio.

That was then. This is now. A closer-to-normal D.C. summer is right around the corner. We’ve been inching in the right direction for some time now, and when the Nationals opened their 2021 season on April 6, 4,801 fans were there to see it. Capacity limits have continued to expand as reported Covid cases fall and more D.C. area residents get vaccinated. By the Nationals’ June 11 game against San Francisco, Nats Park will be at max capacity.

Just writing that is a bit surreal; the last time the stadium was filled to the brim and the surrounding streets were raging was during the 2019 World Series run, and that feels like forever ago.

Much has changed down by the water in Capitol Riverfront since then, particularly on Half Street outside the ballpark’s Centerfield Gate. Taking the place of construction and roadblocks — the street is fully operational now — is a mixeduse development on both sides of the street, creating a mini baseball-themed neighborhood. There’s even a ramen bar named Base Bowl. Many MLB ballparks across the country have some version of this idea nowadays, and Half Street — when at its full maturity — can be one of the best.

Atlas Brew Works is one of the biggest additions to the block.

Headlined by a walk-up window for beer and pizza by the slice via Andy’s Pizza, Atlas opened its second location on Half Street midway through 2020. Locals supported the brewery and taproom even through the most difficult of pandemic protocols, and now it’s ready for a broader audience.

“They’ve stuck with us as we navigated all the changes thrown at us,” says Justin Cox, Atlas’ founder and CEO. “We’ve built a great community of regulars and I hope that will continue once Nats Park goes to full capacity.”

Atlas’ Bullpen Pilsner is sure to be a favorite among visiting baseball fans, and is one of many original brews offered. Inside the taproom, baseball cards line pillars like wallpaper, and booths are designed like stadium bleachers. The patio is vast, stretching nearly the entire block, and dogs are welcome with open arms. When I brought my dog down, the server was quick to bring out a big bowl and pitcher of ice water. My dog would also gladly co-sign Atlas as a go-to game day spot.

The Bullpen, of course, is the OG of the block, yet the new variety makes it so versatile. Half Street is filling out its batting order, so to speak. You can hit multiple spots pre- or post-game and catch a few different vibes in the process.

Gatsby, which opened in April inside an old bank on the corner in front of the ballpark, is a swerve into 1920s elegance. It’s the type of place you’d bring friends or family to when they’re visiting, and then they’d go tell everyone back home how cool it was.

98 | SUMMER 2021

Each detail of the two-story eatery was perfected by local restaurateurs KNEAD Hospitality + Design, and it made Gatsby the perfect addition to Half Street. It’s sophisticated, but still welcoming with its In-N-Out-inspired smashburger, $4 whiskeys at happy hour and Sunday brunch.

“We have been thrilled with the feedback,” says KNEAD’s founder Jason Berry. “Being able to open at the start of baseball season and receiving great reviews from our guests has been icing on the cake.”

While we’re on the subject of cake, Mah-Ze-Dahr has the area’s coffee and pastry needs locked down. An Urdu word, mazedar translates to “delicious” in English. A brief look at their pastry showcase (or Instagram page) tells you all you need to know. It’s not just a cleverly named bakery. Located next to Gatsby and also under the KNEAD umbrella, Mah-Ze-Dahr is perfect as an everyday latte spot or when you have a surprise Zoom call on gameday.

Already established in the Big Apple thanks to renowned baker Umber Ahmad, this is the first to open in the District.

Ahmad, who started the brand out of her apartment in 2013, was profiled by The Michelin Guide last year, right before MahZe-Dahr’s expansion into D.C. “We have a great community [who we] continue to be grateful [to] for allowing us to become a part of the D.C. community,” she says.

Half Street has its heavy hitters in place to anchor the street when the ballpark reopens and the area is buzzing. More are coming, too. The other side of the street is going to get Tap99, a self-pour pub with 99 active taps, and the first Kilwins ice cream franchise in D.C. Well-traveled locals may know the magic that is Kilwins from Old Town Alexandria, Fells Point or Charlottesville. Both newbies, owned by former racecar driver Jason Cherry, will open this summer.

By then, the Nationals may very well be in first place. They’re not playing like world beaters at the moment, it’s just that there’s no one running away with their division. All five NL East teams are within a handful of games of one another, and the top team is barely above .500.

Now is the perfect time to jump back in. Never forget, they didn’t start their turnaround in 2019 until the end of May. When you make the trip down, make sure to download and link the MLB Ballpark app. Everything at the stadium (tickets, food, etc.) is contactless this year. It’s a little different, but just being at a ballgame is the prize. We would have done anything for that chance last summer.

Atlas Brew Works Half Street Brewery & Tap Room: 1201 Half St. Suite 120, SE, DC; www.atlasbrewworks.com Gatsby: 1201 Half St. Suite #205, SE, DC; www.gatsbyrestaurant.com Mah-Ze-Dahr: 1201 Half St. Suite #105, SE, DC; www.mahzedahrbakery.com Nationals Park: 1500 S Capitol St. SE, DC; www.mlb.com/nationals/ballpark RIGHT PAGE FROM TOP. Nationals Park. Photo courtesy of Atlas Brew Works. Half Street.

Photos courtesy of the Capitol Riverfront BID. Wood-roasted oysters. Photo courtesy of The Point DC.

THE POINT DC IN BUZZARD POINT

Fear not, soccer fans. We also have you covered for a spot to pre- or post-game when catching D.C. United home games at Audi Field in Buzzard Point. Picture yourself on an open-air patio with a glass of wine in hand, fresh seafood on your plate, and the Anacostia and Potomac Rivers converging right in front of you. Next, make that vision a reality at The Point DC, Capitol Riverfront’s newest and Buzzard Point’s first-ever restaurant, now open with a limited menu by reservation only. The newest Fish & Fire Food Group concept spans 12,000 square feet, featuring a 150-seat riverfront patio complete with five fire pits and four TV screens, in case you want to watch the game from the restaurant.

For those on the go, the aptly named takeout window and market Beside the Point will open soon next to the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail. 2100 2nd St. SW, DC; www.thepointdc.com; @thepointdc DISTRICT FRAY | 99

CAPITOL RIVERFRONT

Who Are the People in Your Neighborhood?

WORDS BY KEITH LORIA Capitol Riverfront is home to an active community of residents. The neighborhood is friendly, with plenty of ways for people to meet and congregate including great outdoor restaurants, waterfront views and dog parks aplenty. Here are the stories, hidden talents and best neighborhood tips from just a sampling of those who call Capitol Riverfront home — the folks you could meet each day.

Samantha Testa

Testa owns Painted Palettes and is a full-time watercolor artist and calligrapher in D.C. What attracted you to the Capitol Riverfront?

My partner and I have lived in the neighborhood since 2017. We initially started looking to move to the area because we wanted to be in close proximity to 695 for his job. The fact that Cap Riv had so many amazing restaurants and amenities, not to mention being so close to my favorite sporting event (go Nats!), really sealed the deal.

Tell me about your art and what you offer through Painted Palettes.

I have a retail line of D.C.-themed watercolor goods and paint custom art for clients, specializing in architecture and house portraits. Workshops are natural offshoots of these skills, and I enjoy interacting with the community to help people realize their creativity.

What are some of your favorite things to do in the area?

I’ve played softball since I was 8 years old and currently play at Ryan Zimmerman Field on Sundays with [my] DC Fray league.

I love going to Nationals games. Whether it’s the first game of the season or my 20th, it’s something I always look forward to. I will never forget watching the World Series Game 7 at Nats Park.

It was a once in a lifetime experience, and I’m so happy I got to live that out in my own neighborhood.

What are your favorite food options in the neighborhood?

Our weekends almost always include a breakfast sandwich and a coffee from Lot 38. We have a handful of old faithful establishments we frequent including The Salt Line, AllPurpose, Albi, District Winery and Bluejacket. @painted_palettes on Instagram // www.paintedpalettes.com

Sara Quinteros-Shilling

Quinteros-Shilling is co-owner of Shilling Canning Company, with a focus on hyperlocal and sustainable food.

How long have you been part of the Capitol Riverfront community and what brought you here?

I’ve been living in Capitol Riverfront since 2019 when we opened our restaurant Shilling Canning Company, but we really fell in love with the area in 2017 when we were looking for a space for the restaurant. Although my family and I made the transition to Capitol Riverfront to open our business, we had been interested in this area because of its community feel — and lots to see and do nearby, including the ballpark.

100 | SUMMER 2021

Tell me a bit about what makes Shilling Canning Company special.

We celebrate the flavors and products of the Chesapeake Bay Region. We are family-owned and hyper-locally focused. Our name comes from the Maryland canning and farming business that my husband’s family operated from the 1930s to 1950s. My husband and partner, Reid Shilling, is the executive chef and creative director behind our menu and food. His family was known to be meticulous, not only about what they grew but also about what they ultimately canned. You’ll find a lot of that attention to quality and detail still lives on in the restaurant’s mission.

What are some of your favorite things to do in Capitol Riverfront?

I love that there are so many small business shops and restaurants. I love taking my dog and daughter to the various parks. There are so many activities throughout the year for different age groups such as Rosé All Day, music in the parks or Noon Yards Eve — there’s always something going on. @shillingcanningcompany on Instagram // www.shillingcanning.com

Adam Lazoff

Adam Lazoff and his partner Matt Weintraub are pet parents to 10-monthold Winston, a French bulldog who won the annual Mutt Madness Bracket Contest in March. Lazoff currently works for design consulting firm Street Sense, while Weintraub is a consultant for pharmaceutical companies.

How long have you been part of this neighborhood?

We moved in September last year from Woodley Park and decided to move down here to be [closer to] the happening crowd. We moved into the Maren, an awesome building that has a dog park for [Winston] and great amenities.

Winston has had a successful year with Mutt Madness.

It happened during a time I was unemployed, so I was able to market my dog. It was the first contest we were ever a part of, and we wound up winning. We had a lot of friends and family who helped support the cause.

What do you appreciate most about the neighborhood?

We love that it’s very dog-friendly here and we’re able to walk to a lot of different restaurants. We go to The Salt Line probably once a week. We made a lot of friends through the dog park itself, as it has a great community of dog lovers. Just being able to take the dog and walk the bridge over to District Winery is great. @realstreetsense on Instagram // www.streetsense.com

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP. Samantha Testa. Sara Quinteros-Shilling. Adam Lazoff + his partner Matt Weintraub. Photos courtesy of subjects.

DISTRICT FRAY | 101

STAYCATION YOUR WAY LIFE

THIS SUMMER IN CAPITOL RIVERFRONT

75+

RESTAURANTS & BARS NOW OPEN

11+ 2

Visit capitolriverfront.org/summer to check out neighborhood events including the return of live concerts! @capitolriverfront

102 | SUMMER 2021

ACRES OF PARKS MILES OF RIVERWALK

Tori Collins

Collins is a USDOT employee and a rising poet who won several local competitions this past year.

What brought you to the area?

I moved here from Chicago in November 2014, relocating for a job with the Department of Transportation. When I was doing my final interview, I drove around and realized Capitol Riverfront was a great neighborhood.

It wasn’t as redeveloped as it is now, but I saw a lot of potential in it. I really liked the history of the area and connecting with people in the community has really taught me a lot about D.C.’s rich history.

What is your background as a poet?

I won a poetry contest in eighth grade, but I totally had forgotten about that. I journaled as a hobby in high school and college, and always have been in love with words. There is a lot of power in poetry and expressing yourself. It’s something I started doing again just last year with everything going on in the world: the pandemic, people losing jobs, police brutality and all the emotions going on in the world on the political front.

This was a very cathartic way for me to release emotion.

My first one was “From Pandemic to Protest,” and it was published in the Hill Rag and won an award.

How would you characterize the dining scene in the area?

Eateries are what makes people want to come to the area. I live on New Jersey Avenue, so my quintessential “Cheers” is Scarlet Oak, which is attached to the building I live in. I also like the new restaurants popping up like District Winery and Bammy’s. If I want to venture a little further, I love to get the best burger in the Capitol Riverfront at The Salt Line.

The State of My Statehood Ward 6 Dems Poetry Matters contest winner

WORDS BY TORI COLLINS Like unfinished wood, the District of Columbia can survive indoors or outside of the House.

We prefer to be on the inside, to be included.

We prefer to vote and have it count.

It isn’t a question of politics.

It is answering the question of politics with basic fairness, Solving issues that taught us civics.

Statehood means being seen in America, being heard in America and, Growing with Americans.

Simply put, it is Freedom, Equity, Honor, and Respect.

Acquiring these truths is and has been a self-evident uphill battle and often, an unlikely climb up the ladder through the rings of Congress.

Nevertheless, those like me in the ‘hoods named after Barracks for Marines, Yards needed for the Navy, Hills with no Caps, Triangles with many corners and all things George; We’ve remained Diligent, Empowered, Long-Suffering Tax-Paying Citizens.

It is because we have hope.

It is because we are diligently waiting for the door to open.

I am patiently waiting for the state of my hood to one day be 51 shades of statehood good.

And we will continue to make down payments on policies, elections and decisions without representation until we have proper documents which will transcend evolution.

Statehood for me is like a big blockbuster movie set to premiere on Independence Day, the whole world can stream it, watching it from handheld flat screens.

It is our next Emancipation Day, our newest April 16th, 1862.

It is the result of merging just action with the right vision to leave behind a country better than the one we were given.

@frompandemic2protest on Instagram Tori Collins. Photo courtesy of subject.

DISTRICT FRAY | 103

395 CAPITOL RIVERFRONT

2021 Index Shopping & 2021 Services Index

L ST

M ST

M ST

N ST

Recreation & Entertainment Recreation & Entertainment

38 42

6 18

2 78 4

N ST

HALF ST SW

Hospitality Hospitality

2

SOUTH CAPITOL ST

M ST

M ST

43

Q ST SW

Q ST SW E SW V A C MA VE S O A T C A PO OM R ST SW T O P R ST SW 3 3

V ST SW 74

V ST SW 74

1ST ST SW

1ST2ND ST ST SWSW

104 | SUMMER 2021

L ST

2ND ST SW 5TH AVE SW

Food & Drink Food & Drink 1 2 3

I ST

Shopping & Services

5TH AVE SW

35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49

I ST

4 All-Purpose Pizzeria 60 Slipstream 5 Al’s Delicatessen 61 Solace Outpost* 7th & L Market 6 Anchovy Social4 All-Purpose Pizzeria 62 Stadium Sports 60 Bar Slipstream Ann’s Beauty Supply 7 Atlas Brew Works/Andy’s Pizza 63 Starbucks 5 Al’s Delicatessen 61 Solace Outpost* Aura Spa 1 7th & L Market 8 Bammy’s 6 Anchovy Social64 Subway 62 Stadium Sports Bar Banfield Pet Hospital 2 Ann’s Beauty Supply 9 Bardo 65 Subway 7 Atlas Brew Works/Andy’s PizzaCafé63 Starbucks Bang Salon 3 Aura Spa 10 Basebowl 66 Sweetgreen 64 Subway 8 Bammy’s Bank of America4 Banfield Pet Hospital 11 Bethesda Bagels 67 Swizzler 9 Bardo 65 Subway Café Bearded Goat Barber 5 Bang Salon 12 Bluejacket Brewery 68 Taco City 66 Sweetgreen 10 Basebowl 6 Bank of America Bishops Cuts/Color 11 Bethesda Bagels 13 Bluestone Lane** 69 TaKorean 67 Swizzler Blackbird Salon7 Bearded Goat Barber 12 Bluejacket Brewery 68 Taco City 14 Bonchon Chicken 70 Tap99* 8 Bishops Center for Physical TherapyCuts/Color 13 Bluestone Lane** 69 TaKorean 15 Buff alo Wild Wings 71 The Big Stick Chase Bank 9 Blackbird Salon 14 Bonchon Chicken 70 Tap99* 16 Cava 72 The Brig 10 Center for Physical Therapy Chelsea Cleaners 15 Buffalo Wild Wings 71 The Big Stick 17 Chipotle 73 The Bullpen Classy Corks* 11 Chase Bank 16 Cava 72 The Brig 18 Chloe 74 The Point 12 Chelsea Cleaners Conte’s Bike Shop 17 Chipotle 75 The Salt Line 73 The Bullpen 13 Lounge Classy Corks* 19 Chop’t Cosmopolitan Nail 18 Chloe 20 Circa 76 Toastique 74 The Point 14 Conte’s CVS Pharmacy (NJ Ave. SE)Bike Shop 19 Chop’t 75 The Salt Line 21 Cold Stone Creamery 77 Top of the Yard 15St.Cosmopolitan Nail Lounge CVS Pharmacy (I SE) 20 Circa 76Bar Toastique 22 Cornercopia 78 Walters Sports District Dogs 16 CVS Pharmacy (NJ Ave. SE) 21 Cold Stone Creamery 77 Top of the Yard 23 Dacha Beer Garden 79 Wiseguy Pizza/Altani Gelato 17 CVS Pharmacy (I St. SE) DogMa Day Care 22 Cornercopia 78 Walters Sports Bar 80 Yellow Café 18 District Dogs 24 District Winery Dogtopia 23 Dacha Beer Garden 79 Wiseguy Pizza/Altani Gelato 25 Dominos 19 DogMa Day Care Dryy 24 District Winery 80 Yellow Café 26 Due South 20 Dogtopia Harris Teeter 25 Dominos 1 Callisto by Sonder 27 Due South Dockside 21 Dryy Harry’s Reserve 26 Due South 2 Courtyard by Marriott 22 Harris Teeter 28 Emmy Squared Pizza* 1 Callisto by Sonder Hill Spirits Unlimited 27 Due South Dockside 3 Europa by Sonder* 23 Harry’s Reserve 29 El Bebe 2 Courtyard by Marriott Lululemon 28 Emmy Squared Pizza* 4 Hampton Inn & Suites 24 Hill Spirits Unlimited 30 Five Guys 3 Europa by Sonder* MedStar Health 29 El Bebe 5 Homewood Suites 25 Lululemon 31 Gatsby 4 Hampton Inn & Suites Mimosa Nail Salon 30 Five Guys 6 Residence Inn 26 MedStar Health 32 Gregory’s Coffee* 5 Homewood Suites 31 Gatsby Modern Nail Bar 7 Thompson Washington D.C. 27 Mimosa Nail Salon 33 Hatoba 6 Residence Inn 32 Gregory’s Coffee* Nationals Team Store 28 Modern Nail Bar 34 Ice Cream Jubilee 7 Thompson Washington D.C. 33 Hatoba Navy Nails & Spa 29 Nationals Team35Store Jackie’s American Bistro 34 Ice Cream Jubilee Navy Yard Dental 30 Navy Nails & Spa 36 Jeni’s Ice Cream 35 Jackie’s American Bistro Ovation Eye Institute 1 9 Round Fitness 31 Navy Yard Dental 37 Kilwins* 36 Jeni’s Ice Cream Pacers Running32 Ovation Eye Institute 2 Anacostia Riverwalk Trail Fitness 1 9 Round 38 Khin’s Sushi 37 Kilwins* Phase Family 33 Pacers Running 3 Audi Field 2 Anacostia Riverwalk Trail 39 Kruba Thai 38 Khin’s Sushi Learning Center* 34 Phase Family 40 La Famosa 4 Ballpark Boathouse* 3 Audi Field Pivot Physical Therapy 39 Kruba Thai Learning Center* 5 Barre3 4 Ballpark Boathouse* Las Placitas 40 La Famosa Rose Physical Therapy 35 Pivot Physical 41 Therapy 6 BOOMBOX Boxing Club 5 Barre3 42 Llamabar* RCT Endodontics 41 Las Placitas 36 Rose Physical Therapy 7 Canal Park 6 BOOMBOX Boxing Club 43 Lot 38 Espresso Bar 42 Llamabar* Scissors & Scotch 37 RCT Endodontics 8 Capper Community Center 7 Canal Park 44 Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery 43 Lot 38 Espresso Bar Somewhere 38 Scissors & Scotch 9 DC Sail 8 Capper Community Center 44 Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery Splash Car Wash 39 Somewhere 45 Maialino Mare* 10 Diamond Teague Park 9 DC Sail 46 Maxwell Park 45 Maialino Mare* Steadfast Supply 40 Splash Car Wash 47 Mission 46 Maxwell Park 11 Orangetheory10 Diamond Teague Park T-Mobile 41 Steadfast Supply 12 Nationals Park11 Orangetheory 47 Mission 48 Nando’s Peri-Peri 42 T-Mobile U-Haul 13 48 Nando’s Peri-Peri Solidcore 12 Nationals Park 49 Nicoletta Pizzeria* 43 U-Haul Unleashed by Petco 13 Solidcore 14 The Yards Marina 50 Osteria Morini49 Nicoletta Pizzeria* 44 Unleashed by Petco UPS Store 14 New TheYork Yards Marina 15 Trapeze School 50 Osteria Morini Wells Cleaners 45 UPS Store 51 Philz Coffee 15 Trapeze School New York 16 U.S. Navy Museum 51 Philz Coff ee 52 Pho Junkies* 46 Wells Cleaners Wells Fargo Express Center 52 Pho Junkies* 17 Vida Fitness 16 U.S. Navy Museum 53 Potbelly Center Whole Foods 47 Wells Fargo Express 17 Park Vida Fitness 18 Virginia Avenue 53 Potbelly Whole Foods 54 RASA Wrenn’s Barber48 Shop 18 Virginia Avenue Park 19 Yards Park 54 RASA 49 Wrenn’s Barber55Shop Sandlot Southeast 19 Yards Park 56 Scarlet Oak 55 Sandlot Southeast ABC Pony 57 Shake Shack 56 Scarlet Oak 1 ABC Pony 57Co. Shake Shack Agua 301 58 Shilling Canning *opening/reopening summer 2021 2 Agua 301 *opening/reopening summer 2021 Albi 59 Side Door Pizza58 Shilling Canning Co. **temporarily closed 3 Albi 59 Side Door Pizza **temporarily closed

HALF ST SW

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34

Capitol So 17 Cap 1

Metro

Capitol South Metro

SE

29 54 17 19

12 29

2

3

10 35 37 42

18 20 25144 33 1162 4615 TINGEY ST 48433 12 7

14

8

22

1 34

12

15 69 17 66 14 3 4 45 6 53 51 7 39 18.28.58 766 80 36 40 8 7 15 39 41 5 3 46 26 34 24 2 50 19 49 27

5 49 13 9 19 72 18 41 68 3 1 29 32 20 2519

8TH ST SE

63

NJ AVE

VAN ST SE

SOUTH CAPITOL ST

6 47 2 13 20 73 21 6 21 16 6 67 31 13 18 7 15 5 27 10 70 78 47 44 31 37 77 4

38 42

695

7TH ST SE

16 57

22 8

5TH ST SE

71 5

25 7 28 43 2 45 30 1 64 38 8 11 32 17 11 1016 79

4TH ST SE

52

36

2165

13

56

14

3RD ST SE

K ST

12

2ND ST SE

26

24

11 60 59 23

HALF ST SE

17 1 40

Eastern Market Metro

48 22

16

WASHINGTON NAVY YARD

14 43

SW AVE

9

61

4

55

23 75 35

10

4

1

ANACOSTIA RIVER

9

2

295 105

CAPITOL RIVERFRONT

SPEND A DAY IN

CAPITOL RIVERFRONT WITH

DCCITYGIRL WORDS BY KEITH LORIA Even if the name Laurie Collins doesn’t ring a bell, chances are you know the D.C. native by her social media nom de plume, dccitygirl, as she has more than 132,000 followers on Instagram.

Referring to herself as a city explorer and storyteller, Collins regularly posts gorgeous images of some of the most interesting and beautiful sites around the District, including some of her favorite places in Capitol Riverfront. As a photographer, Collins is always looking for opportunities to take photos of her city.

“There are so many landmarks that make that easy,” she says.

“I like to wait on one side of the pedestrian bridge to capture the symmetry of it and look for the right moment when people add just the right balance to the shot. This can take some time, but in my opinion, it is so worth the wait.”

Born in D.C., Collins first became interested in photography when she traveled to Europe in her early 20s. Armed with a Nikon, which she still owns to this day, she created lasting memories of the places she visited. Today, she concentrates most of her work on street photography, capturing city life.

“To me, it’s important to show Washington, D.C. as I see it on a daily basis. I want it to be different than what you would expect, for example, from a tourist site.”

If she had a full day to spend in Capitol Riverfront, while not nearly enough time to enjoy all it has to offer, Collins has thoughts on what the day would entail.

“From my home, I would hop on the Circulator to Yards Park where I would walk along the boardwalk,” she begins. “The [Anacostia] River is always busy in the spring and summer with folks kayaking and boating. [I’d] pull up to a bench and gaze out at the water, keeping an eye out for great blue herons, cormorants, hawks and other waterfowl.”

One of the fun spots for adults and kids alike is the dancing fountains at the waterfront. Collins says she would then challenge herself by trying to take a picture under the waterfall without getting soaked before switching gears to go shopping.

“I always like to make time for retail therapy, especially shops owned by women, so I’d head to Steadfast Supply to see what’s new. As the day progresses, I might stop by Bluejacket Brewery for baked feta dip and an icy cold beer. The kids might prefer ice cream, so if that’s the case, make your way to Ice Cream Jubilee. My personal favorite is a double scoop of raspberry rose and chocolate chocolate in a waffle cone. Don’t forget to add rainbow sprinkles!”

A big baseball fan, if it’s a day Collins is lucky enough to get tickets to a Nats game, she will spend the rest of her day cheering on the home team with a bowl of D.C.’s famous chili from Ben’s Chili Bowl, located right within the ballpark.

By perusing her Instagram, it’s easy to see Collins has a great eye and knows how to enjoy life. And her love of D.C.’s neighborhoods is a big part of that. That’s why photographing 106 | SUMMER 2021

the different neighborhoods is one of her favorite things to do in the District.

“The combination of the different architecture, beauty and colors make for delicious photos,” she says. “I love landmarks and memorials, and I try to visit them at different times of day and during different seasons because the light changes and the number of people change with the seasons.”

Among her top spots for taking photos are the Tidal Basin during peak cherry blossom season; McKee Beshers in Poolesville, Maryland, where the towering sunflowers are breathtaking; and Rock Creek Park — especially Boulder Bridge.

All of this exploring and taking photos around the District can get tiring and naturally, Collins can build up quite the appetite. Thankfully, she has some go-to places in Capitol Riverfront she deems as essential that would definitely be a part of her perfect day.

“With all that walking, carbs are essential to refuel. Either sitting at the bar or outside on a cool summer night, Osteria Morini serves up the best cappelletti: truffled ricotta ravioli and melted butter. Top it off with a few glasses of wine and lots of crusty bread, [and] it will provide a good night’s sleep and extra energy for the next day.”

She always finds time for entertainment and is glad that Capitol Riverfront is flush with special events for her to photograph and attend.

“I always look forward to Rosé All Day, which features live music, multiple rosé bars, perfectly pink Instagrammable installations and a garden lounge with flower crowns you can create.”

With so much beauty and fun things to do in the area, no two days will ever be alike, and Collins is happy to be part of the community while capturing its unique moments.

Learn more about Collins at www.dccitygirl.com and follow her @dccitygirl on Instagram.

Laurie Collins. Photo courtesy of subject.

DISTRICT FRAY | 107

Directly across the street from Nationals Stadium

Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout hotel

Walking distance to AUDI Field

In Room Refrigerator

Located on the “Navy Yard” Metro (Green Line)

On site Laundry Facility & Fitness Center

“Top of the Yard” Roof top bar

24-hour Business Center

1, 000 sq. ft. meeting space

Pantry Market with grab and go food and beverages

Digital key available (recommended)

100% Hilton Guarantee - Hilton Honors Program

Complimentary Breakfast

Hilton Clean Stay

Hampton Inn & Suites Washington DC - Navy Yard Hotel Book directly on our website to receive a special Book directly on ourbywebsite to receive a special DMV resident discount entering the promo code PGK. DMV resident discount by entering the promo code PGK.

Contact sales directly for group blocks: 202-864-4164.

Contact sales directly for group blocks: 202-864-4164.

1265 First Street, Washington, DC | TEL: +1-202-800-1000 | FAX: +1-202-864-4171

PLAY

RUNNING 101

A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO PICKING UP YOUR MILES WORDS BY BRENDAN PADGETT | ILLUSTRATION BY JAMES COREAS

PLAY | BEGINNER’S GUIDE There is something immensely satisfying about the act of putting one foot in front of the other and logging miles on some of the DMV’s stunning trails — particularly now. I imagine future anthropologists looking at Instagram as an artifact of the pandemic and concluding that half of all Americans took up baking while the other half started running. Not that this has to be an either/or proposition, as I like going for a run while the dough is rising. It’s the perfect amount of time and makes me think I have earned the carbs.

When I started running, my biggest fear was boredom.

I thought plodding along for miles and miles would be frustrating and infuriating. I pictured myself giving up halfway and taking a cab home. If I’m honest, there were times those feelings surfaced, but I never hailed that taxi.

At the beginning of my running journey, my legs were deeply unsure about this whole “exercise” thing, and I suspect they would have sent a strongly worded letter to management, had

they been able. Through taking it slowly, not pushing myself too hard and having the right gear, I began to look forward to lacing up my sneakers. Those complaining legs quickly became willing partners, and my runs became a daily mental escape from stress by taking in some scenery, quieting my mind and getting some of that needed exercise.

D.C. is a runner’s city: scenic routes, classic races and fantastic running groups to join. If you’re just starting out, be sure to go get fitted for some running shoes by a pro at a running store, pace yourself with shorter mileage and try running on different types of terrain to see what you like.

Pavement is good for the sure footing, but trails are kinder on your joints — just slow down and watch where you’re stepping.

Runners are part of a wonderful community and I’ve made some great friends along the way, so don’t be afraid to join a group. They’re always welcoming to new runners.

Advice + Wisdom from Pacers Running Community Lead Elyse Braner + DC Front Runners Coordinator Socrates Tiglao District Fray: What is your training advice for a new runner?

Elyse Braner: For somebody who is just trying to build up their mileage, I recommend a program of walking and jogging. Start off repeating 30 seconds of jogging and a minute of walking, eventually decreasing the amount of time you’re walking and increasing the amount of time you’re running.

What’s the best part about joining a running group?

Socrates Tiglao: Meeting new people. Front Runners, for example, has new people joining every week, and it’s like adding to your running support group. When I first joined, I instantly felt at home and welcomed, even though I was a newish runner.

What do you wish you had done differently when you first started?

Tiglao: I wish I had started earlier!

I did have a few minor initial injuries, such as plantar fasciitis and tendonitis, but I recovered and my body got stronger.

Running shoes and clothes aren’t just for fashion. What are the must-haves for beginners?

Braner: Having the right pair of shoes is going to make or break you. If you are in uncomfortable shoes or shoes that will make you prone to injury, you’re not going 110 | SUMMER 2021

to continue the activity. If you go to a local running store like Pacers, they will put you through a running assessment to help you find the right pair of shoes that fits your budget. Going into D.C. summer, make sure you’re wearing lightweight, sweat-wicking fabrics.

What are some of your favorite races in the DMV for new runners?

Braner: The Pacers events are great and really well-organized. If you are interested in participating in some of the iconic D.C. races, such as the Cherry Blossom 10-Miler and Marine Corps Marathon, many of them offer a shorter distance.

Tiglao: The Pride Run 5K. It’s inclusive and fun. There are very competitive runners, but also people who are just doing it for fun, run/walking or walking, which makes it a great race for beginners.

There are honestly so many great 5Ks in D.C. What keeps you running?

Braner: The community. I’m a very social runner and I love meeting up with groups and friends.

Tiglao: For me, it’s my health.

It’s therapeutic for me right now.

Work and life can be stressful and sometimes you need to just get away and do something you love.

Even if it’s just a few miles, it’s meaningful for me.

RECOMMENDED ROUTES Anacostia Riverwalk: A 20-mile paved trail along both sides of the Anacostia River. www.capitolriverfront.org/go/anacostia-riverwalk-trail Banneker Community Center Track: A wellmaintained track in Northwest D.C. that is open to the public. 2500 Georgia Ave. NW, DC; www.dpr.dc.gov C&O Canal: An unpaved, flat running trail along the historic C&O Canal. www.nps.gov/choh // @chesapeakeandohiocanal Mount Vernon Trail A paved trail running along the Potomac from TheodoreRoosevelt Island all the way to George Washington’s Mount Vernon. www.nps.gov/gwmp // www.fb.com/NPSGWMP The National Mall The classic D.C. run. www.nps.gov/nama // @nationalmallnps

JOIN A GROUP DC Capital Striders: A noncompetitive running group that believes in supporting the environment, as well as local and national charities. www.dccapitalstriders.com // @dccapitalstriders DC Front Runners: D.C.’s LGBTQ+ running group. www.dcfrontrunners.org // @dcfrontrunners District Running Collective: Where fitness, fun and community collide; welcome to all levels of runners. www.districtrunningcollective.com // @districtrunningcollective November Project: A free fitness movement using accountability to motivate runners of all ages, shapes, sizes and fitness levels. www.november-project.com/washington-dc // @novemberprojectdc Pacers Social Runs: Free community runs most days of the week. www.runpacers.com/social-runs // @runpacers

BIKE TO THE BEACH

Riding for Autism Awareness WORDS BY AMANDA WEISBROD

Bike to the Beach, an annual bicycle-riding, autism-awareness fundraiser, is back for its 15th year on July 30. What began as a tradition between two friends transformed into a full-fledged 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that raised more than $1.2 million last year for autism awareness.

In 1999, without rides or cars of their own, Ben Dalley and Joey Schmitz packed up their beach clothes and rode their bicycles more than 100 miles from D.C. to the Delaware shore to celebrate graduating high school. The tradition has continued each year since, but Bike to the Beach officially became a nonprofit organization in 2007. Since then, six other committee-led Bike to the Beach rides have been established in cities across the U.S. Robby Walsh, executive director and one of the founding members of Bike to the Beach, says when the original friend group of riders was choosing a cause to support, they landed on autism awareness because some of their relatives had been diagnosed with autism. They felt they were fairly uneducated Photos courtesy of Bike to the Beach.

about the autism and disability community, which to them was a sign the cause needed more advocates.

“As we started growing our community and got to know a lot of families directly touched by autism and developmental disabilities, it became personal,” says Walsh, who hopes to raise at least $2 million at this year’s event.

His passion for supporting autism awareness stems from it not only being a global and national cause, but also a local one.

“It is so local that once you start seeing it at our events — when you see the variety of what they do and the families at the finish line — it starts to become something tangible that you can solve,” he says.

Bike to the Beach participants can choose to ride the full, 100mile route that stretches from D.C. to Dewey Beach, Delaware, or the 50- or 25-mile routes instead. Walsh says it’s totally possible to ride the entire 100-mile stretch even if you haven’t trained for the event because there are rest stops every 10 to 15 miles.

DISTRICT FRAY | 111

“You decide what kind of day you want to have,” he says. “If you’ve been training, you’ll feel good. If you go into the day and don’t train at all, it’ll be a bigger challenge.”

Co-CEO of Balance Gym Devin Maier says the years he didn’t train were much harder than the years he did, but crossing the finish line is worth it either way. He has been participating in Bike to the Beach for 12 years now and says it is one of his favorite events of the year.

“Each year was magical for many reasons,” Maier says. “If I could say anything to people on the fence, it would be to give it a go. It’s such an amazing feeling rolling into Dewey Beach with a crowd of folks cheering for you, knowing you’ve raised a ton of money for such a wonderful cause, and you’ve got a weekend to relax and recover ahead of you.”

In fact, Maier loves Bike to the Beach so much, it is the catalyst that led him to working at Balance Gym in the first place. Once he started looking more into the event and found out the gym was one of its sponsors, he began training rides with them and says the rest is history. As he learned more about the cause behind Bike to the Beach over the

years, Maier shifted his focus from the riding aspect of the event to the fundraising aspect instead.

“It’s been so humbling meeting families with autistic kids and hearing their stories,” he says. “Many of my close friends and even extended family have since revealed to me that their kids have been diagnosed with autism, and they appreciate the awareness and fundraising I’ve been doing over the years.”

Bike to the Beach D.C. kicks off on July 30. Participants can choose to bike 100, 50 or 25 miles. The 100mile trip stretches from D.C. to Dewey Beach, Delaware. With only 100 spots available in the physical event, there is also a virtual ride and advocacy challenge option. Register today or donate to support the cause of autism and disability awareness. Learn more at www.biketothebeach.org/washington-dc.

FRESH STARTS SOLD HERE

Looking to make 2021 better than 2020? Look no further. Let Balance Gym restore balance within your life.

FIRST MONTH FREE: Join Balance in June, and your first month is on us. Scan to sign up.

www.balancegym.com

112 | SUMMER 2021

PLAY

REBUILDING COMMUNITY WITH DMV SPORT LEAGUES WORDS BY ABI NEWHOUSE

The sun is out, the D.C. area is getting vaccinated and locals are emerging like cicadas from a year-and-change slumber. Sports leagues around the DMV are ready to give our bodies a place to socialize and remember what it’s like to be part of a community. For the three organizations we interviewed, Stonewall Sports, FXA Sports and DC Fray, taking a break during the pandemic gave them each an opportunity to pause and think about the future of sports in the region. As Brittany Rheault, senior director of sports at Fray, puts it, “Our mission is to bring people together, and Covid’s was to tear people apart.” Here is what the three different organizations have to say about the return of sports.

DC FRAY District Fray’s parent company, DC Fray, is excited to reopen this summer. During the pandemic, the organization pivoted to virtual events such as cocktail hours, speed dating and trivia nights in order to keep its community together, and staff members hope that community returns to the fields and courts as soon as they feel safe enough to do so.

“It goes back to our mission,” Rheault says. “We’re here to make fun possible, and to bring people together.”

Rheault has worked for DC Fray for eight years and knows the community well.

“I merge and create teams, where the process of bringing players together starts. The excitement of potentially linking them to their next roommate, best friend or partner is still the highlight for me each season.”

DC Fray is excited to regain what was missing during the pandemic and it seems residents are, too, as there have been more never-before-seen names signing up for different leagues.

“We’re rebuilding that sense of community so many of our players have been missing,” she adds.

DC Fray plans to keep up with virtual events as well as in-person sports in order to support the D.C. community on all comfort levels.

114 | SUMMER 2021

“Any way we can continue to make fun possible and link up with the community, that’s what we’re going to keep doing.”

You can find registration for summer sports — everything from bingo to cornhole to soccer — at www.dcfray.com. Registration is open through mid-June, and games are held all over D.C., Maryland and Virginia. www.dcfray.com // @dcfray

FXA Launched in 2007 as a three-sport league, FXA now hosts 19 different sports with roughly 2,000 teams. The organization paused activity during the pandemic but worked hard to follow CDC and local guidelines to find ways to keep the leagues going. They opened a few outdoor sports in the summer of 2020 and were able to supply Fairfax County with data that that the organization’s outdoor leagues involved zero in-game transmissions.

Yet FXA president and founder Jeremy Purcell says, despite their results, “The big challenge for all the clubs around the country is rebuilding confidence.”

Director of customer success, Tyler McKee, agrees.

“We all have different situations [such as] living with our parents or grandparents,” he says. “There’s people to think about

FIRST PAGE. DC Fray kickball. Photo courtesy of Fray. THIS PAGE. From L to R. Photo courtesy of FXA Sports. DC Fray bocce. Photo courtesy of Fray.

LAST PAGE. The Swallows playing D.C. Kickball for Stonewall Sports in 2019. Photo courtesy of Stonewall.

other than ourselves. But more and more people are starting to get back out there.”

As more people get vaccinated, FXA is seeing an uptick in registrations — especially in outdoor sports.

“One of the things we really work for is to provide a place for everybody,” Purcell says.

“We have all levels. We have leagues where we have four or five divisions in the same league, and one of the reasons we do that is so that anybody can come out and have fun.”

With levels ranging from beginner to advanced, FXA also helps decide which team is a good fit based on the position the athlete feels most comfortable playing. In such a fastpaced society, McKee stresses the importance of giving yourself a break.

“It’s a place where you can narrow the focus a little bit. You’re not worried about highpressure work. It’s just, ‘Let me hit this shot.

Let me complete this pass.’ There’s almost some relaxation in having your cares be so small in that moment.”

FXA has added four sports — including pickleball and Spikeball — in the past year, and they expect to add more in the future.

Registration is open until June 2 and leagues are held in Northern Virginia. Check out www.fxasports.com to see what new and classic sports are available this summer. www.fxasports.com // @fxasports

DISTRICT FRAY | 115

PLAY

STONEWALL SPORTS Established in 2010, Stonewall Sports is a community-based nonprofit now active in nearly two dozen cities in the nation, including D.C. Aptly named for the famous demonstrations by the gay community in 1969, the Stonewall riots, the organization is specifically geared toward creating a community for LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies.

Viet Tran, Stonewall’s director of diversity, equity and inclusion, says, “During the pandemic, it was especially tough for a lot of LGBTQ+ people who really found community within Stonewall Sports. This was their core group, their family. This is how they engaged with their D.C. community.”

Stonewall went virtual to help bridge that gap. It hosted online happy hours, mixers and movie nights, as well as engaged in community fundraising for people who were disproportionately affected by Covid. And while Stonewall adhered to CDC and local guidelines, Tran says league staff are excited to welcome the community face-to-face, especially as they’ve had more time to focus on fostering an inclusive environment.

“One of the things we’re excited about as we head toward our soft reopening this summer or fall is the incorporation of a player name and pronoun on our T-shirts,” he says.

Stonewall will also launch a social media campaign with training and resources to help educate people on why these changes are important. When asked how to help those hesitant to reengage in person, Tran says Stonewall is focused on not only local guidance, but participants’ comfort levels.

“It’s important for us to find ways to safely engage and stay active.

We want players to engage in a way that’s most comfortable for them, to know they’re not alone in these feelings: excitement, fear, concern and joy. They’re all valid.”

116 | SUMMER 2021

Other Local Leagues to Check Out D.C. Gay Basketball League www.dcgbl.org // @dcgbl D.C. Gay Flag Football League www.dcgffl.org // @dcgffl DC Front Runners www.dcfrontrunners.org // @dcfrontrunners Goombay Adventures www.goombayadventurers.com/washington-dc // @goombay_inc Rogue Darts www.rlsports.org/darts // @roguedarts

As for the future of Stonewall in D.C., Tran says it will take time to get back to normalcy. In the meantime, the league will continue to implement new diversity and inclusion practices, as well as continue to build their community.

Keep up with http://stonewallsports.leagueapps.com to see which leagues — billiards, bocce, climbing, dodgeball, kickball and yoga — are reopening in the coming months in the District. http://stonewallsports.leagueapps.com // @stonewallsports NOTE: DC Fray owns District Fray Magazine.

PARTY ANIMALS

FUN

ILLUSTRATION BY E$

We’re all ready to be out and about again, even our beloved animals at Smithsonian’s National Zoo. E$ envisioned a day out for our zoo-dwelling friends: a pool party at the National Mall. Our personal faves? The panda and seal sporting bikini tops and the kangaroos kicking it by the keg. Follow E$ on Instagram @theedollarsign.

DISTRICT FRAY | 117

118 | SUMMER 2021

JESSE

GARCIA Talks 50 Fray Leagues, His Chosen Family and Building LGBTQ+ Community WORDS BY M.K. KOSZYCKI PHOTOS BY RICH KESSLER PHOTOGRAPHY From his background in communications and working as a public servant with the U.S. government to his involvement in kickball leagues around town, Jesse Garcia uses his skills to connect with others and foster safe spaces for those in the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. As Garcia celebrates his participation in 50 DC Fray leagues this year, we caught up with him to get to know him better through in-depth looks at his experiences and some rapidfire questions on a variety of topics — from his dream kickball teammate to what he’s listening to these days.

District Fray: You reached a huge milestone of playing in 50 Fray leagues in 2021. Tell us more about that journey.

Jesse Garcia: When I moved from Dallas to D.C. in the summer of 2011, I wanted to try something different. So, I turned to team sports. Back in Texas, I was a political organizer for more than a decade. When I was not working 9 to 5, I spent evenings and weekends working on progressive campaigns, registering voters and volunteering with elections. I missed out in joining gay leagues like volleyball and softball. I felt that was a luxury and that the cause needed me more. When I got politically appointed to the Obama administration and came to D.C., I decided what little downtime I had was going to be spent meeting good people and having a great time. So naturally, I turned to gay kickball. I also joined DC Fray softball teams with my office, dart leagues and non-LGBTQ+ kickball leagues to pass the time during the summer and winter.

How would you describe your role in social sports?

Why are they important to you?

My kickball career peaked many seasons ago, so now I’m affectionately called Team Mom. I make sure schedules are up on our apps, rosters are ready on game day and I even keep stats to spur competition among teammates.

DISTRICT FRAY | 119

IN OTHER WORDS It’s all because we love kickball, and we invest so much time helping each other get better as players. Personally, these players are like the children I never got to have. I’m so happy this new generation of LGBTQ+ folks will have the opportunity to have marriages and raise children, something I wish I had available to me when I was their age. When the pandemic hit and we needed human interaction, DC Fray provided a safe space for us to meet each Sunday and play again on the National Mall. That boosted our morale and mental health after days of lockdown. Thank you, DC Fray.

And how has your professional journey progressed over the years?

This year I hit a milestone. In May, I celebrate 25 years working as a public servant in the federal government. I started my career at San Antonio’s Kelly Air Force Base, fresh out of graduate school. I have worked in seven different agencies throughout my career. I proudly work for the USDA in consumer education, and my office is located right near the National Mall.

What role do social sports play for the LGBTQ+ community in D.C.?

Kickball for the LGBTQ+ family is so much more than just a social sport. It is like an actual family. Some in the community are estranged from their families because they chose to come

out and have had to move to a big city to live out their truth.

They create chosen families. These teams represent years of friendship: people who will be there after the game ends and happy hours finish. The reason that LGBTQ+ leagues keep getting bigger and bigger each season is because so many of us want to belong and have that support system. Plus, kickball provides many in the community a great way to meet folks outside the bar scene and social media apps. Everyone wins.

How else are you involved in the local LGBTQ+ community and beyond?

After my Obama appointment, I decided to stay in D.C. to continue my adventure. I became involved once again with the oldest and largest Latinx civil rights organization, the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC). Back in Dallas, I helped lead a LULAC district in North Texas. Here in D.C., I cofounded a local chapter of this nationwide organization that was made up of LGBTQ+ Latinx folks, www.lulaclambda. org. We raise money and award scholarships to LGBTQ+ Latinx students, coordinate HIV testing days in the Latinx community, register voters, clean up the Potomac River and Rock Creek Park, and donate to local food pantries. I also have a podcast that focuses on leaders in the LGBTQ+ and Latinx communities. We talk about politics, culture and art. I self-fund www.jessegarciashow.com, available on iTunes, Spotify and SoundCloud. My only sponsor is the First Amendment.

Favorite kickball memory? I got to assemble a good team of folks and we brought over some straight players from DC Fray to Stonewall [Sports] kickball, and we took down the undefeated champs on the very first game of the brandnew season. They weren’t expecting us to be good, but because we were signing up for DC Fray, playing summer leagues and getting better, we could get to these more competitive Stonewall leagues. We brought over some amazing straight players who enjoy playing with gay folks, and we united and took down the undefeated team — and they were cheering for us. Dream kickball teammate? [Secretary of Transportation] Pete Buttigeig. He looks like he is a positive person, and that he’d be a great shortstop. I know you’re a dedicated kickball player, but what’s your favorite sport to watch? I’m a Dallas Cowboys fan. I’ve always been since I grew up in Texas. Most D.C. people are like, “Okay, we’re gonna give you that.” I love the Washington Nationals. I was never into baseball, but when I came here [and when they won the championship], I celebrated the team and went to see them in the parade. If you had to pick a sport to play other than kickball, what would it be? Probably softball. I did softball with my agency, and it has the same roles and the same setup almost. It’s fun. It’s exciting. It’s a lot of legwork though, and a lot of running after that small ball. Best place to grab a drink after work? Uproar Lounge & Restaurant on Florida Avenue. They have a beautiful patio and the staff is so nice. Favorite D.C. area restaurant? El Sol Restaurante & Tequileria on 11th Street. It’s got good Mexican food and stayed open throughout the whole pandemic. I appreciate the immigrant workers there that kept it open. They still showed up to work every day during the pandemic. They were the only people I would see during the pandemic, so their faces will always be ingrained in my mind while we were all shut down at the very beginning and very scared. What’s your usual order there? Mole rojo. That’s their dish of chicken with some chocolate sauce that doesn’t taste like chocolate, but it’s from the cocoa plant and is indigenous to Mexico. It’s just delicious and spicy. There’s different types of mole and their dish there is the best. Favorite song at the moment? I’ve been listening to Dua Lipa. Her album came out last year, but I’m still hung up on other remixes.

I’m particularly fond of “Levitating (feat. Madonna and Missy Elliott) [The Blessed Madonna Remix].” I was so happy when she won at the Grammys.

For more on Garcia, visit www.jessegarciashow.com and follow @jessegarciashow on Instagram to keep up with the latest.

120 | SUMMER 2021

Celebrate Pride in D.C. at your favorite bars!

JR`s Bar . Nellie`s . Pitchers . Number Nine Relax responsibly®.

Corona Extra® and Corona Light® Beers. Imported b Crown Heights, Chicago, IL