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VOLUME 66 NUMBER 5
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DECEMBER 4 – 17, 2019
During the Yuletide E LLIN G TO N F I EL D A N D GI N K GOS DC C H A M B ER ’ S ‘HOM ET OW N H ER OES’ G IFTS : H O S TE S S W I T H T H E M OST EST CO U N C I L R EC OM M EN DS EVA N S EX PU L SI ON
l i v e c o n f i d e n t l y.
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ABOUT THE COVER
Credits for cover photo: Evening Gown & Crystal Hair Piece - SIGNATURE DC @signature. dresses • Tuxedo & Accessories IKE BEHAR DC Hand Crafted Mens Wear - @ikebehar • Photographer - GREG FRITZ BLAKEY @ fritzphotographics • Fashion/Beauty Editor - LAURETTA J MCCOY @ beautycomestoearth • Fashion Assist - STEPHANIE PHARR @stefpharr • Hair - LATRICE STRADER @ latricestrader • Nails - LATOYA DUCKETT @toyduckcreations • Models CLARA CORCORAN & JUSTIN SAMPSON for THE ARTIST AGENCY @theartistagency • Location – GEORGETOWN’S WASHINGTON HARBOR ICE RINK
UP & COMING · 4 Events Calendar
NEWS · 5 - 6 Town Topics
DOWNTOWNER · 7 Downtown News
EDITORIAL/OPINION · 8 Editorial CAG Update Jack Evans Report
BUSINESS · 10 Ins & Outs
‘GLOW’ TO LIGHT UP GEORGETOWN ON DEC. 6
THE VILLAGE · 11
PUBLISHER Sonya Bernhardt
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Robert Devaney
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Charlene Louis
COPY EDITOR Richard Selden
FEATURES EDITORS Ari Post Gary Tischler FASHION & BEAUTY DIRECTOR Lauretta McCoy GRAPHIC DESIGN Troy Riemer Dennis Belmont PHOTOGRAPHERS Philip Bermingham Jeff Malet Neshan Naltchayan Patrick G. Ryan ADVERTISING Evelyn Keyes Richard Selden Kelly Sullivan
SENIOR CORRESPONDENT Peggy Sands CONTRIBUTORS Mary Bird Susan Bodiker Allyson Burkhardt Evan Caplan Jack Evans Donna Evers Michelle Galler Stephanie Green Amos Gelb Wally Greeves Kitty Kelley Rebekah Kelley Jody Kurash Shelia Moses Kate Oczypok Linda Roth Alison Schafer Mary Ann Treger
BY PEGGY SAN D S
DC Chamber of Commerce 12/12 Breakfast
Part of this year’s “Georgetown Glow”: “Snow Cones,” by Jeff Zischke of Scottsdale, Arizona, will illuminate Cady’s Alley. Courtesy Georgetown BID.
GIFT GUIDE · 12
Hostess with the Mostest
REAL ESTATE · 13, 17
November 2019 Sales Everything Old is New Again
CHINESE TENOR TO STAR IN TCHAIKOVSKY TRIBUTE BY R IC H AR D SEL D EN
COVER · 14 - 15
Fanyong Du and Vera Danchenko-Stern. Photo by Richard Selden.
Holiday Fun: Georgetown and Beyond
CLASSIFIEDS · 16
HOYAS FALL TO UNC GREENSBORO, 65-61 (PHOTOS)
Service Directory
BY JEFF M AL ET
BOOK CLUB · 18
Myron Gardner of the Hoyas goes over Mohammed Abdulsalam of the Spartans. Photo by Jeff Malet.
Kitty Kelley Book Club
GOOD WORKS & GOOD TIMES · 19
1050 30th Street, NW Washington, DC 20007 Phone: (202) 338-4833 Fax: (202) 338-4834 www.georgetowner.com The Georgetowner is published every other Wednesday. The opinions of our writers and columnists do not necessarily reflect the editorial and corporate opinions of The Georgetowner newspaper. The Georgetowner accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs and assumes no liability for products or services advertised herein. The Georgetowner reserves the right to edit, rewrite or refuse material and is not responsible for errors or omissions. Copyright 2019.
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TOWN TOPICS DECEMBER 12
DECEMBER 14
The Russian Chamber Art Society will pay tribute to the beloved composer with a concert featuring lyric tenor Fanyong Du singing a dozen Tchaikovsky art-songs and a performance of the Trio in A Minor. Tickets are $55, including a post-concert reception. Embassy of France, 4101 Reservoir Road NW. For details, visit thercas.com.
Barter Players Encore Company will give two performances of “Frosty” in the McLean Community Center’s Alden Theatre. When Billy places a stolen hat on a snowman’s head, that snowman comes to life. But can Frosty help Billy find his real family? Tickets are $15. For details, visit mcleancenter.org. 1234 Ingleside Avenue, McLean, Virginia.
‘FROSTY’ IN MCLEAN
TRIBUTE TO TCHAIKOVSKY
DECEMBER 7
DECEMBER 9
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA IN TYSONS
MAYOR’S HOLIDAY RECEPTION
Tysons Corner Center will host a morning of free holiday festivities with Santa on hand. Those Funny Little People, featured on America’s Got Talent, will entertain. There will also be a balloon artist and holiday crafts. Tysons Corner Center, Tysons, Virginia. For details, visit eventbrite.com.
D.C. residents are invited to celebrate the holidays in the 51st state with Mayor Muriel Bowser, Council Chairman Phil Mendelson and the Council of the District of Columbia at a free reception. For details, visit eventbrite.com. John A. Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Ave. NW.
GEORGETOWN CHORALE HOLIDAY CONCERT
DECEMBER 9
Richard Giarusso will lead a holiday concert by the Georgetown Chorale at the Church of the Epiphany featuring “Fantasia on Christmas Carols” by Vaughan Williams and “Nänie” and “Song of Destiny” by Brahms. Tickets are $30 for adults and $15 for students. For details, visit georgetownchorale.org. 1317 G St. NW.
This year marks the 46th anniversary of this free event, at which hundreds of tuba, sousaphone and euphonium players play traditional Christmas music at the Kennedy Center. Those wishing to perform should arrive two hours prior to the 6 p.m. concert to rehearse. For details, visit kennedy-center.org.
CANDY CANE BAR CRAWL
DECEMBER 13 AND 14 MOUNT VERNON BY CANDLELIGHT
Participants in this candlelit guided tour of George Washington’s estate will learn about holiday traditions in 18th-century Virginia. Also offered on Dec. 6, 7 and 22. Tickets are $26 for age 12 and up and $18 for ages 6 to 11. Free for age 5 and under. For details, visit mountvernon.org. 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, Virginia.
MERRY TUBACHRISTMAS!
The Del Ray Candy Cane Bar Crawl, with 15 participating restaurants in Alexandria, Virginia, benefits Community Lodgings, a nonprofit that works to lift families from homelessness. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Check-in is at Lena’s WoodFired Pizza, 401 E. Braddock Road, or RT’s Restaurant, 3804 Mount Vernon Ave. For details, visit VisitDelRay.com.
WINTER’S EVE AT GLEN ECHO At Glen Echo Park’s free Winter’s Eve celebration, visitors of all ages can take part in holiday crafts, drink hot chocolate, see artist’s studios, shop at the Holiday Art Show & Sale, make a blown glass ornament ($35) and sit for a Photoworks portrait ($25). For details, visit glenechopark. org. 7300 MacArthur Boulevard, Glen Echo, Maryland.
6TH
EDITION
DEC. 6– JAN. 5 GLOW WALKING TOURS
FREE LIGHT ART EXPERIENCE
DEC. 6–JAN. 5 ⋆ 5–10 P.M. NIGHTLY Map at GeorgetownGLOWDC.com/map #GeorgetownGLOW
DEC. 14 A BOOK HILL HOLIDAY 4–8 PM
Funded in part by the DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities, an agency supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts
For a full list of holiday happenings, visit GeorgetownDC.com/guide/holidays.
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TOWN TOPICS
Council Recommends Expulsion of Jack Evans
Dumbarton Concerts
MUSIC BY CANDLELIGHT 2019–2020 SEASON
HOLIDAY CONCERTS 2019
BY GARY T IS CHL ER The Council of the District of Columbia met Dec. 3 and recommended the expulsion of its Ward 2 member Jack Evans because of ethics violations. All 12 members voted to expel Evans, who was not present at the Tuesday meeting. Each spoke about deception by Evans and how he used his public office to help private clients for his personal and monetary gain. “He has betrayed each and every one of us,” said Ward 3 Council member Mary Cheh, according to the Washington Post. “You would speak to him about council things, but he was speaking for the people who were buying him.” “Expulsion requires the votes of 11 of 13 members,” reported the Post. “Tuesday’s vote is the first step for expulsion. … It was agreed that the council would need to reconvene no sooner than one week to hold a hearing before casting a formal vote to remove Evans.” The D.C. Council must meet twice and then cast a formal vote on Evans’s expulsion. The Council-ordered investigation on its longest-serving member reportedly found numerous ethics violations on the part of Evans, who has not been charged with any crime.
The Council and individual members had contemplated various options. Many members publicly said that Evans should resign, but Evans has not shown any sign that he intends to. Also, under consideration was censure, which an apparent majority of the 13-member Council favors, and stripping Evans of his committee memberships. The Dec. 3 decision is any extraordinary step in the Evans saga — something the Council has never done. Last week, Evans, through his attorneys, challenged the validity of many of the 5,500 signatures gathered by leaders of a group pushing for a recall vote. Attorneys for Evans claimed that more than 2,000 signatures were questionable or invalid. The matter is being examined by election officials. Evans has not yet announced if he will seek reelection to his Ward 2 seat next year, beginning with a June Democratic primary. A number of challengers have already declared their intention to run against him.
Saturday, December 7 at 4pm & 8pm
Danú: An Emerald Isle Christmas
Colorful Irish ensemble Danú brings their all-new Christmas program to Georgetown!
Sunday, December 8 at 4pm & Sunday, December 15 at 4pm
A Celtic Christmas
Join us for Dumbarton Concerts’ longest running holiday tradition!
Saturday, December 14 at 8pm
Helicon: Winter Solstice
Virtuosic artists from Charm City Junction and The Ken & Brad Kolodner Quartet take the stage for Helicon’s winter celebration.
ORDER TICKETS AT DUMBARTONCONCERTS.ORG 3133 Dumbarton Street NW Washington, DC 20007 • 202.965.2000
Stay tuned for updates at georgetowner.com
GIVE THE GIFT OF MUSIC ALL YEAR LONG Sunday, December 15, 2019 1 - 4pm
Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC 2800 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Fun-filled activities for all ages: Children’s crafts and activities
Visits from Santa and Dr. Bear
Pop-up Shops
Holiday décor auction
Musical performances
Light fare and refreshments
Tickets and Sponsorships
www.childrensnational.org/lightuptheseason
GIFT CARDS AND MEMBERSHIPS MAKE PERFECT HOLIDAY GIFTS
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TOWN TOPICS
NEWS BYTES BY PEGGY SA NDS
WAR ON GEORGETOWN GINKGOS ADVANCES
Two of Georgetown’s newest commissioners, both representing neighborhoods east of Wisconsin Avenue, have launched what is actually the second battle of the 2019 war on ginkgo trees in the ’hood. Specifically targeted are the female ginkgo trees, which wreak havoc on sidewalks and streets when, in the fall, they drop their stinky, slimy berries. Passing cars and pedestrians squish the berries into a slippery mess that smells like dog poop. “I love trees in Georgetown,” said Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Gwen Lohse. “But these female ginkgo trees have to be replaced. They’re dangerous. And there is a way to get the city to remove them and replace them with another tree.” Last spring, neighbors on O and 27th Streets, led by Danielle Dukowicz, were successful in going through the official tree-removal process: a petition signed
by neighbors, inspections by urban forest officials, reviews by the local ANC and, finally, approval and removal by professional arborists. “It’s a unique process geared primarily to the ginkgo tree,” Lohse told The Georgetowner. The ANC has the decisive vote and it can happen fairly quickly. Lohse and Commissioner Elizabeth Miller are leading the way in this round with a presentation at the Dec. 2 ANC meeting.
ELLINGTON FIELD: FROM DCPS TO DPR
Will it or won’t it? The question of whether Ellington Field — official playing field of the Duke Ellington School of the Arts, formerly Western High School — will be administratively transferred to the Department of Parks and Recreation from DC Public Schools, seems to have been answered. It will. “In early November, a 30-day notice of
A ginkgo tree was removed earlier this year on the 1400 block of 27th Street NW. Georgetowner photo. intent of the administrative change was issued,” Burleith Citizens Association President Eric Langenbacher told The Georgetowner. “There’s not much that would change that, unless the mayor intervenes. She is not expected to do so. The administrative change will probably take place in early December.” Currently, Ellington Field has limited use by residents and some local sports teams. As a way for DPR to reach out
for ideas on how to expand usage, and perhaps the infrastructure, a presentation was scheduled for the Dec. 2 meeting of the Georgetown-Burleith advisory neighborhood commission. “Most residents seem to want to keep it that way, except for some expanded use for public school athletic groups,” said Langenbacher. “The BCA is conducting a survey as well.” The Georgetowner will report results of the survey and other input.
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6 DECEMBER 4, 2019
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DOWNTOWNER
Deer in Rock Creek Park will be “managed” through March.
BY KATE OCZ Y P OK
ARTS COMMISSION, MAYOR REACH AGREEMENT
After weeks and weeks of back-and-forth between Mayor Muriel Bowser and the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, a memorandum of understanding was signed by the commission’s board chair and the interim deputy mayor for planning and economic development. The document says that the Mayor’s Office and the Arts Commission will work to cooperatively advance common goals for preserving and commissioning art, DCist reported.
NEW HEARING ON MASONIC TEMPLE DEVELOPMENT
Property owners next to the Masonic Temple at 1733 16th St. NW have received notice of a third hearing by the Mayor’s Agent on Historic Preservation. The hearing, regarding the Scottish Rite Masons’ plans to subdivide the temple’s site, will be held on Friday, Jan. 10, at 1100 4th St. SW. Opponents of the project from the Dupont neighborhood are expected to testify.
PULSE HOUSE OF FITNESS IS OUT
Pulse House of Fitness, located at 1401 New York Ave. NW, will close after being open just over a year. Owner Shafer Minnick sent an email to members saying that the location will close on Dec. 14, Washingtonian magazine reported. There has been no information about whether the studio will relocate or close. Pulse is a studio that mixes cardio exercises and strength training.
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DEVELOPER MUST PAY TENANTS 6 FIGURES
A company owned by developer and political donor Chris Donatelli has been ordered to pay $450,000 to hundreds of Northeast D.C. tenants who were improperly charged for water usage, according to the D.C. Office of the Attorney General. The Park 7 Apartments will also have to pay D.C. $200,000 for the investigation, report water billing details to the Attorney General’s Office through 2021 and forgive tenants’ outstanding water bill debts.
AVOID ROCK CREEK PARK, RUDOLPH!
Rock Creek Park announced its deer management window, which began on Nov. 20 and is set to end on March 31. Biologists who are trained firearms experts will be doing deer reductions at night, when the park is typically closed. There will also be temporary road and trail closures at night for safety reasons. Commuters and bikers — not to mention Rudolph and Santa’s reindeer crew on Christmas Eve — are advised to use caution. The goal is to protect and restore plants and healthy and diverse forests.
DOWNTOWNDC BID NAMES AWARDEES
The DowntownDC Business Improvement District announced the winners of its 2019 Momentum Awards, presented on Dec. 3 at the Ronald Reagan Building. Mayor Muriel Bowser was named DowntownDC Person of the Year and Apple, Events DC and the DC History Center won Private Sector Project of the Year for the restoration and revitalization of the Carnegie Library.
Council member David Grosso will not seek reelection.
COUNCIL MEMBER GROSSO WON’T RUN AGAIN
At-Large D.C. Council member David Grosso, one of just two independents in office, will leave the Council in 2020. Patch reported that he will not seek reelection next year after two terms. In a letter to constituents, Grosso wrote: “I have decided not to seek a third term in 2020 and to pass the baton for the next generation of progressive leaders.”
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EDITORIAL
OPINION CAG UPDATE
The State of Georgetown Retail BY C H ERYL GR AY
Send Your Feedback, Questions or Concerns, Tips and Suggestions to editorial@georgetowner.com or call 202-338-4833
Our Love — and Need — of Small Businesses The holidays — Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa and the rest — started up quickly this year, not by a noticeable increase in tolerance and compassion, necessarily, but by a megaoutburst of commercial and retail activity all across the land and wherever you live. For professional shoppers (and, during the holidays, everyone is a professional shopper and bargain-snooper), this year’s lead-up to festivities-to-come was all about sales and shopping, whether in brickand-mortar stores or online. It was about billions, not just millions, and 50-percentoff tags and hashtags and strategizing mall itineraries, forays to boutiques and frantic searches of websites and apps. Somewhere in all this frenetic holiday buying, there was even a Small Business Saturday, a celebration of the neighborhood places in our city and elsewhere. The surviving members of a shrinking class of mom-and-pops and independents were attempting to pull in customers not only with sales and price cuts, but with personal greetings and attention, unique items and offerings, hot drinks and holiday treats and, above all, a homey Yuletide ambiance. If today we sometimes bemoan politics or relationships that are overly transactional, let’s celebrate businesses in our communities that are examples of transactions at their best — understandable, direct and, often, memorable. Let’s celebrate our remaining, sustaining and, hopefully, enduring small businesses. Small businesses in Georgetown — or Adams Morgan, Capitol Hill, Anacostia, Dupont Circle, even across the border in Silver Spring and Bethesda — are a vanishing breed, still breathing but in many cases struggling. What are small businesses, and what do they mean to us? Well, we’re a small business, for one thing, although part of a shrinking tribe. Newspapers small and large are both a necessity for the common good and a difficult enterprise to maintain. We love places in Georgetown such as Ella-Rue, Just Paper & Tea, Pillar & Post, LiLi the First, Cafe Georgetown, Café Tu-o-Tu, the Christ Child Opportunity Shop, Georgetown Olive Oil Co. and Everard’s Clothing. We love the eateries
to stop by after shopping — from Das to Martin’s Tavern and Bistrot Lepic. We remember the small businesses that are no longer here. We see empty spaces in Georgetown and in Adams Morgan. We just lost this month the Brass Knob, a unique establishment if there ever was one, of light fixtures, lamp holders, keepers of the things we own and, yes, brass knobs. That’s one kind of small business, the originals: the old antiques stores, thrift shops and art galleries that define Georgetown. Bookstores — which we hear are making a comeback somewhere — are to be treasured, especially the ones like Bridge Street Books and the long-running Bryn Mawr bookshop, the Lantern, on P Street. They are like a pet rescue station for book lovers. Unique — as opposed to chain — coffee shops are small businesses, owner-generated and neighbor-oriented. Classic clothing stores and specialty caterers are small businesses. Visionary businesspersons and restaurateurs past, present and future give small businesses a good name. The magic that makes small business a big deal is, of course, the professional and personal contact. Clothing stores of the individual kind, galleries run by men and women of remarkable taste, places offering carefully sourced food items or one-of-akind toys always include, like a way station, contact with a human being, usually one who likes to talk with customers. You can find that in the oddest, as well as the most normal places: an open-air market on Sundays featuring the crab cake guy, in sweet shops, in small grocery stores, in restaurants, in bike shops. At odd times, you can find it even in your local Safeway or CVS, because they’re full of people who, after two or three trips, remember your name. We recall to this day when we were in Paris and passed a shop that specialized, I think, in reproductions, including Picasso prints. The owner snagged us in to show us something “just for zee pleasure,” as he put it. This is why we still go to small businesses: for the originality, for the welcome mat and for the people. And, of course, for “zee pleasure.”
What’s the best gift you’ve ever received? YOUR OPINION MATTERS. Post your response. Facebook.com/TheGeorgetowner
8 DECEMBER 4, 2019
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Among the biggest concerns I hear consistently from Citizens Association of Georgetown members is the state of retail in Georgetown — the empty storefronts, the replacement of unique local shops with banks and chain stores, the proliferation of sandwich boards on our sidewalks and the lack of progress in fixing up dilapidated areas such as the former Latham Hotel site. They wonder why this is happening given the overall strong economy in D.C., and what can be done about it. CAG has teamed up with the Georgetown Business Improvement District, Advisory Neighborhood Commission 2E and Georgetown Main Street to explore ways to help support the retail sector and ensure it remains vibrant. On Nov. 19, the four organizations co-hosted a community meeting on the topic. It was great to see over 150 people show up, despite the cold, including residents, business leaders and commercial property owners. The BID presented statistics on rising vacancy rates (around 9 percent currently), noting similar problems in other parts of D.C. and comparable U.S. communities. Breakout groups then discussed causes and solutions.
It’s clear that the rise of online shopping is affecting retail everywhere, but Georgetown also faces specific challenges related to rents, transportation, parking and regulation. The four organizations will continue pulling together ideas for an action plan in the coming weeks. CAG had a successful Fall Cocktail Party on Nov. 5. We are grateful to Nancy and Marc Duber for hosting the event in their lovely home, to the Author Incubator for its generous sponsorship, to our patrons and host committee for their valuable support and to all the enthusiastic CAG members and friends who gathered for a wonderful evening of food, drinks, music and conversation. We’ll continue looking for ways to help our residents connect with each other, which is what makes this “village” the special place that it is. CAG wishes you a very happy holiday season. Enjoy the lights and decorations on M and Wisconsin, find just the right gifts in our shops and be sure to take in “Georgetown Glow” and other special local happenings. We look forward to supporting another year of community activities in 2020, and we hope you will join us. Cheryl Gray is president of the Citizens Association of Georgetown.
JACK EVANS REPORT
The True Start to the Holiday Season I hope you and your family had a fun, safe and tasty Thanksgiving. Last year, we had a bitter cold holiday, but this year was pleasant and beautiful. I attend the Safeway and Salvation Army Feast of Sharing at the Washington Convention Center every year before I sit down to eat with my children. Thousands of people from around the District come to the convention center the day before Thanksgiving for a meal prepared by dedicated volunteers. Food preparation, set-up and the organization of entertainment take multiple days of hard work by staff and volunteers. While the convention center is located in Ward 2, this is a citywide event. I and the other Council members greet and check in with our constituents and give small speeches to the crowd. Seeing everyone come together to do good for others is remarkable. It makes me proud to be a small part of this tradition. I wished the guests a happy Thanksgiving and thanked the volunteers. Without them, thousands of people wouldn’t have an amazing and fun experience. Now that Thanksgiving has come and
gone, we’re truly starting the holiday season. Christmas tree lightings are underway and wreaths and decorations are already up around town. The tree lighting at CityCenterDC, now in its sixth year, kicks off the season. On Nov. 30, hundreds of people witnessed the lighting of a 75-foot tree and enjoyed a performance by the Washington Chorus. There were plenty of activities for the kids, too! Also in its sixth year, the annual “Georgetown Glow” exhibition is a public light-art series that showcases artists from around the United States and the world. This monthlong event will feature walking tours that tie in Georgetown’s history with food and art. Displays can be found along the waterfront, M Street and Wisconsin Avenue. I encourage you to take your family and friends to visit the unique and exciting installations in this sprawling art show. This time of year always reminds me that here in the District we can still come together as a community to celebrate another year. Jack Evans is the District Council member for Ward 2, representing Georgetown and other neighborhoods since 1991.
IN LIGHT OF THE DISTRICT COUNCIL’S DEC. 3 DECISION ON JACK EVANS, THE GEORGETOWNER WILL PLACE HIS COLUMN, AFTER THIS ISSUE, ON HIATUS UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
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BUSINESS
INS & OUTS BY RO BE RT DEVA NEY
PLANS FOR NEW KEY BRIDGE MARRIOTT, RESIDENCES
The Arlington County Site Plan Review Committee has begun to review the site plan application for the redevelopment of the Key Bridge Marriott property in Rosslyn, Virginia. Just across the bridge from Georgetown, the hotel is Marriott’s oldest, dating to 1959. Almost 20 years earlier, in 1940, J. Willard and Alice Marriott opened a Hot Shoppes restaurant at the location. The applicant, KBLH, LLC, proposes a major site plan amendment to partially demolish and renovate the existing hotel and construct two new residential buildings,
according to Arlington County. The 5.52acre site is located at 1401 Lee Highway in Arlington, bordered by the George Washington Memorial Parkway to the north, North Oak Street to the west, Fort Myer Drive to the east and Lee Highway to the south. The hotel will be rebuilt with 446 rooms (currently 582). The 16-story residences, east and west of the hotel, will have 161 and 300 units, respectively.
IN THE WORKS: MIRAMAR, DONAHUE, LE LABO
Miramar Restaurant is planning to open next year at 1033 31st St. NW. The former Smith Point at 1338 Wisconsin Ave. NW will morph into the Donahue; the owners, who have applied for a tavern license, intend to erect a pergola in the back “to mitigate noise during late hours.” Meanwhile, Le Labo, a fragrance company with a store in Shaw, is applying for a signage permit at 3005 M St. NW.
White House photo by Lawrence Jackson
OBAMAS CHECK OUT BRASSERIE LIBERTÉ Barack and Michelle Obama and two friends dined at Georgetown’s newest restaurant Nov. 29.
wore black leather pants and a black shirt. They shook hands with guests on the way out,” according to a Brasserie Liberté spokesperson. The Prospect Street eatery opened Nov. 16 and looks like a hit with neighbors and visitors.
“They arrived at 8:24 pm with 4 people in their party (including them). Barack wore a black sweater and shoes. Michelle 20 Years of ‘Thanksgiving on the Mayflower’. Four Seasons Regional Vice President and GM David Bernand is flanked by Metropolitan Police Department officers and backed by officers and horses of the U.S. Park Police. On Nov. 28, the Four Seasons Hotel in Georgetown hosted its 20th annual “Thanksgiving on the Mayflower” feast. Hotel staff volunteers served up more than 500 meals to the city’s first responders.
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dccollegesavings.com Before you invest, consider whether your or the beneficiary’s home state offers any state tax or other state benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors that are only available for investments in that state’s qualified tuition program. For more information about The DC College Savings Plan (“the Plan”), call 800-987-4859, or visit dccollegesavings.com to obtain a Program Disclosure Booklet, which includes investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other important information; read and consider it carefully before investing. The Plan is administered by the District of Columbia Office of the Chief Financial Officer, Office of Finance and Treasury. Ascensus College Savings Recordkeeping Services, LLC (“ACSR”), the Program Manager, and its affiliates, have overall responsibility for the day-to-day operations including recordkeeping and administrative services. Ascensus Investment Advisors, LLC serves as the Investment Manager.
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Chamber to Honor ‘Hometown Heroes’ at Dec. 12 Event BY KAT E OCZ Y P OK On Thursday, Dec. 12, the DC Chamber of Commerce will hold its Annual Board Meeting & Chairman’s Inaugural Breakfast from 8 to 10:30 a.m. at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. The breakfast meeting will be quite special. For bringing Major League Baseball back to the District, the Chamber will honor former Mayor Anthony Williams, former Council Chairman Linda Cropp, five former Council members — Harold Brazil, Sandra Allen, Kevin Chavous, the late Sharon Ambrose and Vincent Orange — and one current member, Jack Evans. Orange is the Chamber’s current president and CEO.
Former Council Chairman Linda Cropp
In 2004 and 2006, this group stood strong, supporting or voting for baseball’s return to D.C. and the construction of Nationals Park. Each individual will receive the “Hometown Hero Award,” which includes a World Series replica trophy and a World Series cap, as well as a Southwest Airlines roundtrip travel certificate. The award presenters will include Ajay Madan, chairman of the DC Chamber’s board, and Karen Price-Ward of Southwest Airlines. Saxophonist Brian Lenair will kick off the Dec. 12 event prior to the invocation and the serving of breakfast. In between the awards ceremony and the beginning of the program, there will be a dialogue about building a competitive city. Originally formed to provide services to African American businesses in the District, the DC Chamber of Commerce was incorporated on June 20, 1938. The name was changed in 1946 to the Negro Chamber of Commerce. A decade later, Chamber leadership reevaluated the District’s business needs and renamed itself the District of Columbia Chamber of Commerce, expanding to serve all businesses in the area.
In addition to the Annual Board Meeting & Chairman’s Inaugural Breakfast, the Chamber holds lots of other noteworthy events throughout the year, including the Chamber’s Choice Awards & Gala. The October gala celebrates over 1,000 of the city’s business owners, corporate citizens and dignitaries and another year of success in working together. For information and tickets, visit dcchamber.org/about-us/events-calendar/.
Former Mayor Anthony Williams
COMMUNITY CALENDAR FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6 GU’S DECEMBER DASH
Georgetown University’s annual December Dash will begin at 11:30 a.m. at Yates Field House, 37th and O Streets. Participants should bring an ugly sweater for the run, as well as $20 and three nonperishable food items. For details, visit guevents. georgetown.edu.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8 VOLTA PARK BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER District Offices offers a variety of options to fit your work style.
Private Offices & Dedicated Desks
From 10 a.m. to noon, visitors to Volta Park, 34th Street and Volta Place, can meet Santa, take photos, munch donuts, draw pictures and catch up with neighbors. For details, visit voltapark.org.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12 CAG OPEN HOUSE
At this holiday open house, from 3 to 6 p.m., the Citizens Association of Georgetown
will offer sweet, treats and a cup of cheer at the CAG office, 1365 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Suite 200. For details, visit cagtown.org.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14 ROSE PARK HOLIDAY EXTRAVANZA
Neighbors can greet Santa, ride Thomas the train and enjoy crafts and treats from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Rose Park ball field, 26th and O Streets. There will also be a Toys for Tots drop-off. For details, visit roseparkdc.org.
A BOOK HILL HOLIDAY Stores, galleries and cafés on Wisconsin Avenue from O Street to Reservoir Road will stay open late, offering festive promotions. From 4 to 8 p.m., Santa will be at TD Bank. Also: complimentary refreshments, entertainment by the Santa Lucia singers and a holiday trolley shuttling visitors up the hill from M Street. For details, visit georgetowndc.com.
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CHRISTMAS CAROLING
ANNUAL ICON SHOW
Please join Father Kevin and fellow parishioners on December 9 at 6:30pm for Christmas caroling around Georgetown. We will gather in the Upper School Cafeteria. We will visit the Sisters of Visitation, carol on the street, and conclude with hot chocolate and cookies. No RSVP required. All ages welcome!
The Holy Trinity Iconography Guild will host its annual icon show, exhibiting their icons and works-in-progress. All are invited to meet the iconographers who wrote the Holy Trinity icon celebrating our 225th anniversary. December 8, 10am-2pm, Chapel Gallery.
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GIFT GUIDE
HOSTESS WITH THE MOSTEST
Holiday Gift Guide The holidays bring lots of good times and celebrations. Here are some ideas to honor the hostess in style.
SHARE A SUBSCRIPTION
It’s always a joy receiving a yearlong subscription (yes, in print) to a favorite authority on a fun subject such as food, design or fashion. Special discounts start as low as $10, with a gift bag.
ELEANOR PRITCHARD
FFENESTR PILLOW $185
For the design-conscious hostess, this limitededition Ffenestr pillow and blanket are available for purchase at fallingwatermuseumstore.org while supplies last. Check the website for availability and order by Dec. 20 to guarantee delivery by Christmas.
ANTHROPOLOGIE
AGATE CHEESE BOARD $78 Appetites pick up as the temperature drops. These hand-hewn, patternedby-nature cheese boards make hors d’oeuvres even more irresistible.
LIFORME
YOGA MAT $112 For the yogi hostess, this self-rolling mat with the quick click will keep your guests moving.
KAI
REED DIFFUSER $78 Fragrances have a lasting power, making them a wonderful gift. Locally, Aveda has offered natural scents for years — check them out. Online, Kai offers a light blend of exotic perfumes and natural essences. This reed diffuser is designed to delicately release the signature, intoxicating fragrance of Kai into the air.
BUY A TREE AND DO A GOOD DEED
The 2019 Light Up The Season at the Four Seasons Washington, DC benefits Children’s National and cohosted by Children’s Health Board December 15, 2019 from 1-4 p.m. Detail of Tree by Sharon Kleinman
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For a more traditional touch, choose from handmade European specialty tabletop items at A Mano on Wisconsin Avenue.
Glen Echo Park is holding its 32nd annual Glen Echo Potters Holiday Sale this weekend, Dec. 6 to 8 — an extravaganza of original handmade pottery.
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ADDRESS 3949 52nd St NW 3322 O St NW 3150 South St NW #Ph2D 3150 South St NW #2F 1409 29th St NW 5100 Palisade Ln NW 3308 Woodley Rd NW 4975 Rockwood Pkwy NW 3329 Prospect St NW #4 4531 Dexter St NW 2806 University Ter NW 1612 28th St NW 2720 Chain Bridge Rd NW 5706 Nevada Ave NW 4943 Quebec St NW 421 T St NW 3629 T St NW 3527 Winfield Ln NW 3812 48th St NW 5053 Sedgwick St NW 3324 Reservoir Rd NW 4621 Clark Pl NW 5010 Sedgwick St NW 3100 33rd Pl NW 1853 Mintwood Pl NW 5411 39th St NW 4330 50th St NW 2406 44th St NW 1323 28th St NW 2814 Cathedral Ave NW 3656 Winfield Ln NW 3803 Ingomar St NW 3344 Prospect St NW 1755 Lanier Pl NW #2 1119 6th St NW 2517 Ontario Rd NW 4619 29th Pl NW 3610 Quebec St NW 1414 22nd St NW #31 4221 37th St NW 4839 Western Ave NW 3282 N St NW
BEDS
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7 8 4 4 4 5 6 5 2 5 6 6 6 5 5 7 5 6 5 5 4 6 7 5 6 5 5 4 3 6 4 5 4 3 6 1 4 3 2 4 4 3
5 5 4 5 3 6 5 5 2 5 5 4 4 4 4 5 5 4 4 4 4 6 5 4 4 3 4 4 3 2 4 4 3 3 6 1 3 3 2 3 3 3
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$7,750,000.00 $7,000,000.00 $6,500,000.00 $4,250,000.00 $3,550,000.00 $2,950,000.00 $2,850,000.00 $2,850,000.00 $2,800,000.00 $2,755,000.00 $2,720,000.00 $2,650,000.00 $2,599,000.00 $2,525,000.00 $2,495,000.00 $2,300,000.00 $2,295,000.00 $2,220,000.00 $2,195,000.00 $2,187,000.00 $2,150,000.00 $2,150,000.00 $2,125,000.00 $2,050,000.00 $1,995,000.00 $1,950,000.00 $1,800,000.00 $1,795,000.00 $1,750,000.00 $1,725,000.00 $1,715,000.00 $1,710,000.00 $1,700,000.00 $1,695,000.00 $1,690,000.00 $1,648,500.00 $1,615,000.00 $1,600,000.00 $1,600,000.00 $1,589,000.00 $1,565,000.00 $1,565,000.00
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Georgetown and Beyond BY STEPH AN IE GR EEN AN D KATE O CZYPO K
Yuletide magic is luminous in D.C.’s oldest neighborhood. It’s time to fill your Advent calendar with only the best and brightest. From the sparkly to the spiritual, it’s all here — the main events in Georgetown, of course, with nearby fun thrown in.
‘ROCK THE RINK’ AT THE WATERFRONT
The ice skating rink has opened at Washington Harbour, the perfect holiday destination for date night or family fun. Keep the rink’s special deals in mind — like two-for-one admission on Tuesdays from 4 to 6 p.m. and college skate nights on Thursdays, when students with ID cards get a $2 discount. Our favorite is “Rock the Rink,” on Saturdays from 8 to 10 p.m., when you can skate and get down (hopefully without falling down) to classic rock.
SWING INTO THE HOLIDAYS AT ‘GLOW’
Feel like a kid again when you bring your children to “Cloud Swing,” one of 11 lightart installations in this year’s “Georgetown Glow.” It and its counterparts will be lit nightly from 5 to 10 p.m. through Jan. 5. The piece, near the intersection of Wisconsin Avenue and Reservoir Road, will include two swings suspended from a glowing cloud. Light and color are created as you swing. Good luck getting the kids to go back to their normal playground after visiting this!
WINTRY BUBBLY AT THE FOUR SEASONS
Recharge your batteries for all that speed shopping with a Rock Creek Forest Massage at the Winter Spa at the Four Seasons Hotel. You’ll be ensconced in balsam fir, white pine and minty body oils. A mug of hot cider awaits you afterward, while you chill in the steam room. At Bourbon Steak, you can dine inside a Champagne bubble to enhance your holiday levity. The eatery’s patio will feature three igloos designed to resemble a giant bubble, each representing a legendary name in Champagne: Krug, Dom Pérignon and Ruinart. Soft blankets and twinkling lights complete the cozy, luxe vibes. (There’s a fourth igloo in the front courtyard for smokers.)
BAZAAR AND PROCESSION AT HOUSE OF SWEDEN
At the Georgetown waterfront, a Swedish bazaar will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 7, at House of Sweden, followed by a St. Lucia procession on the steps at dusk.
CHRISTMAS TREES FOR CHILDREN’S NATIONAL
The Four Seasons will host this year’s community fundraising event benefitting Children’s National Hospital on Sunday, Dec. 15, from 1 to 4 p.m. Notable area artists collaborated with patients to create custom 14 DECEMBER 4, 2019
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Christmas trees, menorahs and more, now on display in the lobby and all available for purchase. Proceeds directly support programs that help the health and well-being of D.C.area kids. Bring the whole family down — there will be holiday-themed arts and crafts, ornament making, musical performances and photos with Santa.
HERE WE GO A-CAROLING AT CHRIST CHURCH
At historic Christ Church Georgetown on the corner of O and 31st Streets, there’s music of a slightly more subdued variety as the church’s renowned choir performs the traditional Service of Lessons and Carols for Advent on Dec. 15 at 5 p.m., followed by a reception. The parish’s Christmas Pageant will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 20.
SINGING BY CANDLELIGHT AT ST. JOHN’S
At St. John’s Church in Georgetown, the British choral ensemble Voces8 will return for a Holiday Candlelight Concert. Experience the aural magic at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 5. The church’s Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols will take place on Dec. 8.
SANTA CLAUS IS COMIN’ TO THE PARKS ...
On Dec. 14, we hear that Santa will be pulling up to Rose Park in a red sports car to benefit Friends of Rose Park. On Dec. 15, he will arrive at Volta Park at 10 a.m. for photos, along with sweets and games.
… THEN HE’S KICKING BACK AT THE FAIRMONT
Santa, we also hear, is editing his naughtyor-nice list and relaxing at a special suite at the Fairmont. Kids and their parents are invited to tour the suite and say hello to Georgie, the Fairmont’s resident canine ambassador. Santa will be available for cookies and selfies on Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. through Dec. 22.
‘THE NUTCRACKER’ WITH A GEORGETOWN TWIST
The Washington Ballet’s annual performance of “The Nutcracker” at the Warner Theatre runs through Dec. 29. Did you know that this Septime Webre production, which features a George Washington nutcracker, is set in Georgetown? This is a special time to see “The Nutcracker,” as the Washington School of Ballet is marking its 75th anniversary.
NSO POPS WITH LESLIE ODOM AND CHORAL ARTS
On Dec. 13 and 14 at the Kennedy Center, the National Symphony Orchestra will present a Holiday Pops concert with Leslie Odom Jr. of “Hamilton” fame, complete with the joyous sounds of the Choral Arts Society.
TACKY CHRISTMAS OUTFITS AT THE ANTHEM
The arts scene doesn’t always have to be so tasteful. The NSO will offer another night of musical cheer on Dec. 11 at the Anthem, but this time with a dash of humor. The “Ugly Sweater Holiday Concert” will require even the orchestra musicians to follow the dress code.
YULETIDE AT TUDOR PLACE AND DUMBARTON HOUSE
This time of year, one appreciates the beauty of our historic architecture. Nothing is grander than seeing a Christmas tree lit inside a Georgetown mansion. One of our most famous homes — Tudor Place — is open for candlelit tours beginning on Dec. 13. On Dec. 14, Dumbarton House will host Tea with Santa and offer a walking tour of Georgetown with hot chocolate and carols, allowing you to see our neighborhood in all its Christmas finery.
‘A BOOK HILL HOLIDAY’ ON WISCONSIN AVENUE
More than 40 small businesses and boutiques — from O Street to Reservoir Road along Wisconsin Avenue — will take part in “A Book Hill Holiday” from 4 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14. Santa will be at the TD Bank.
THE MAGIC STAYS ALIVE AT NATS PARK
If you miss all the World Series magic in the off-season, don’t fret. “Enchant Christmas” at Nationals Park is here. Through Dec. 29, enjoy the world’s largest Christmas light maze and market.
FA-LA-LA-LA WITH DUMBARTON CONCERTS
Continuing a 42-year tradition, Dumbarton Concerts is honoring the holidays with special performances at Dumbarton United Methodist Church. Irish music group Danú will appear on Dec. 7 at 4 and 8 p.m. “A Celtic Christmas,” featuring Robert Aubrey Davis, will be presented on Dec. 8 at 4 p.m. and Helicon will perform a winter solstice program on Dec. 14 at 8 p.m. In case you miss “A Celtic Christmas” the first time, it will return to close the series on Dec. 15 at 4 p.m.
THE CHRISTMAS REVELS ARE COMIN’ TO TOWN
The Washington Revels, dedicated to celebrating cultural traditions in music, dance and storytelling, is celebrating the holiday season with its “Celestial Fools” show, staged in George Washington University’s Lisner Auditorium from Dec. 7 through 15.
OY VEY! THERE’S A MATZO BALL?
Now in its 33rd year, MatzoBall, the nation’s leading Jewish singles event, will ladle up some Hanukkah reveling at Ultrabar at 911 F St. NW, from 9 p.m. on Dec. 24 to 3 a.m. on Dec. 25. Among the many other holiday-themed happenings worth checking out: “Season’s Greetings” at the U.S. Botanic Garden, “ZooLights” at the National Zoo, Kwanzaa celebrations at Dance Place, the downtown market on F Street, Alexandria’s Scottish Christmas Walk, Christmas at Mount Vernon — and, of course, the National Christmas Tree, the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree and the National Menorah.
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The Georgetowner is mailed to all 7,700 RESIDENTS & BUSINESS in Georgetown. CALL TO LEARN MORE 202-338-4833
ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION 2C MONTHLY MEETING TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2019 AT 6:30 P.M. John A Wilson Building Room G9 1350 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington DC
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WASHINGTON DC’S FINEST RESTAURANTS
CLYDE’S OF GEORGETOWN 3236 M ST., NW 202-333-9180 | clydes.com
Everything Old Is New Again BEHIND ITS TRADITIONAL FAÇADE, AN 18TH-CENTURY TOWNHOUSE LUXURIATES IN A THOROUGHLY MODERN MAKEOVER. BY SU S A N BODIKE R Nicholas Hedges, the builder behind Evermay, would be pleased. His own residence, built in 1780 and located just a few blocks from the fabled estate, has now been given the star makeover treatment, thanks to an impeccable restoration led by Akseizer Design Group’s Jeff Akseizer and Jamie Brown. Together, they have brought a piece of history up to the present and set it up for generations to come. The four-story home at 1232 30th St. NW sits on an exceptionally deep 120-foot lot, unique in Georgetown. It offers 1,755 square feet of finished living space on the top three levels and 525 square feet of unfinished space on the lowest level. There are three bedrooms, two and a half baths and a formal, three-level, brick-and-gravel garden.
The garden is an extension of the living room and is an ideal space for relaxing and entertaining On the main level, the open plan flows seamlessly from room to room, starting with an intimate sitting room at the front and moving back through the dining room to the large gourmet kitchen and living room. A white/gray/taupe colorway visually expands the space. Herringbone-patterned white oak flooring runs throughout, making the most of the home’s depth and drawing your eye to the garden beyond. There is recessed-panel wainscoting in the sitting room and built-in cabinetry in the step-up living room, where French doors open onto the rear patio. The kitchen, where shades of white and pale gray predominate, is furnished with two walls of white-paneled cabinetry, some with glass-paned doors; Waterworks fixtures and
This animated tavern, in the heart of Georgetown, popularized saloon food and practically invented Sunday brunch. Clyde’s is the People’s Choice for bacon cheeseburgers, steaks, fresh seafood, grilled chicken salads, fresh pastas and desserts.
ENO WINE BAR
2810 PENNSYLVANIA AVE., NW 202–295–2826 | enowinerooms.com HAPPY HOUR: Offered nightly Tuesday - Thursday from 5 - 7 PM & Sunday from 4 - 7 PM. Enjoy select $7 wines on tap. Join us on Wednesday’s for College Nights from 9 - 11 PM and Sunday’s for 30% off bottles. Our delightful wines are best enjoyed with local charcuterie, cheese and small plates.
THE OCEANAIRE SEAFOOD ROOM 1201 F ST., NW 202–347–2277 | theoceanaire.com The sleek kitchen is furnished with quartz counters and white custom cabinets warmed by brass hardware brass hardware; an island/breakfast bar with a waterfall edge; and quartz marbleveined counters and backsplash. Appliances include a Thermador side-by-side refrigerator and a Bosch dishwasher (both concealed); a Thermador six-burner gas range, oven (with WiFi!) and microwave; and a U-Line beverage cooler. Upstairs, on the second level, are two sizable bedrooms and ultra-sleek baths. The master suite overlooks the garden via casement windows and boasts a cathedral ceiling and custom cabinetry. Next door is a dressing room with wall-to-wall built-in storage. The master bath features a doublesink, marble-topped vanity and a spalike frameless glass shower with multiple shower heads, including a rainhead. As in the kitchen, all fixtures and hardware are by Waterworks. On the third level is a cozy bedroom with dormer windows and an extra-wide closet. The garden, hardscaped with brick and gravel, offers three levels of living and entertaining space and combines French formality with English flora, much of which are evergreens pruned in a classic, elegant style. Offered at $2,395,000, the house is listed with HRL Partners at Washington Fine Properties. For details, contact Robert Hryniewicki, Adam T. Rackliffe and Christopher R. Leary at HRL Partners, 202-243-1620 or robert.h@wfp.com. For a visual tour, visit spws.homevisit. com /mls/275600/1232-30th-street,%20 -nw-washington-dc-20007.
The Oceanaire blends a sophisticated atmosphere with simple, seasonal and regionally-inspired cuisine – the result is “the ultra-fresh seafood experience”. From our wines and cocktails to our seafood, steak and desserts, our commitment to sustainable and locally-sourced ingredients is apparent in everything we do. Reserve your table today for an extraordinary dining experience.
FILOMENA RISTORANTE
1063 WISCONSIN AVE., NW 202–338–8800 | filomena.com A Georgetown landmark for over 30 years featuring styles and recipes passed through generations. Balanced cuttingedge culinary creations of modern Italy using the fresh ingredients and made-from-scratch sauces and pastas. Seen on The Travel Channel, Award-winning Filomena is a favorite of U.S. Presidents, celebrities, sports legends, political leaders. “Don’t miss their bakery’s incredible desserts” - Best in D.C.
ROCKLANDS BARBEQUE
2418 WISCONSIN AVE., NW 202-333-2558 | rocklands.com This original location has served barbecue since 1990. We now have more space for you to sit down with family and friends at our new dining room Driving or walking up Wisconsin Avenue, you ask “mmmm, what’s that aroma??” That’s pork, beef and chicken coming out of our wood-only smoker, falling off the bone and ready for a dousing with our Original Barbeque Sauce.
CAFE BONAPARTE
1522 WISCONSIN AVE., NW 202–333–8830 | cafebonaparte.com
MARTIN’S TAVERN
1264 WISCONSIN AVE., NW 202-333-7370 | martinstavern.com Fifth generation Lauren Martin learns the family business from her dad, Billy Martin, Jr. Since 1933, the warm atmosphere of Martin’s Tavern has welcomed neighbors and travelers looking for great food, service and years of history within it’s walls. Fourth generation owner Billy Martin. Jr. continues the tradition of Washington’s oldest family-owned restaurant.
Captivating customers since 2003, Cafe Bonaparte has been dubbed the “quintessential” European café, featuring award-winning crepes and arguably the “best” coffee in D.C.! Other can't-miss attractions are the famous weekend brunch every Saturday and Sunday until 3 p.m. and our late-night weekend hours serving sweet and savory crepes until 1 a.m.
JOIN THE DINING GUIDE! EMAIL ADVERTISE@ GEORGETOWNER.COM OR CALL 202-338-4833
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KITTY KELLEY BOOK CLUB
A London Theater Tour With Arena Stage BY KITT Y KE L L E Y Molly Smith, artistic director of Arena Stage, led a troupe of D.C. theater hounds to London recently to see British theater — inside and out. “Since Arena is celebrating its 70th anniversary as the largest theater company in the U.S. dedicated to American plays and playwrights, this seemed like a good time to see what the Brits are doing,” she said. Arena’s weeklong tour offered a full course of culture: six plays, two operas, three art galleries, a private tour of Tate Modern, coffee with an international art collector in his Cadogan Square flat, lunch in the House of Lords, fish and chips at a gastropub, a trip to Shakespeare’s birthplace at Stratfordupon-Avon and many flutes of champagne. Throughout, there were nannies the equal of Mary Poppins and brainiac guides, who seemed to have earned six degrees apiece from Oxford.
Arena Stage Artistic Director Molly Smith. Courtesy Kitty Kelley.
We were chauffeured to and from Brown’s Hotel in the heart of Mayfair to see plays that baffled the imagination and gripped the heart. We walked the City of London on a magical tour to see the original Roman settlement that became the famous “Square Mile,” where residences “now cost a minimum of $8 million.” From the Old Vic to the Young Vic, we explored behind the scenes, touching the props (see Martha Dippell kissing a stuffed rhino), pulling the curtains and walking the boards. We even discovered a “non-religious church” in Islington, not far from the Almeida Theatre, that “believes not in God, but in good.” (For proof, visit new-unity.org.) A highlight of the tour was meeting Kwame Kwei-Armah, artistic director of the Young Vic, who many theatergoers will remember from his years at Center Stage in Baltimore, from 2011 to 2018. “Now I’m back home in England and a bit of an anomaly — a black man in British theater,” he said. “In 2005, I became only the second black Brit to have a play staged in the West End, and until 18 months ago I was the only black artistic director in the western hemisphere … We have a long way to go.” From his experience living in the U.S. and the U.K., Kwei-Armah said the British are obsessed with class distinctions and refuse to discuss racial issues, whereas Americans are
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In London — front row: Lily Feldman, David Becker, Leslie Seeman, Linda Bauman, Beth Newburger Schwartz, Molly Smith, Suzanne Blue Star Boy, Ellen Berelson, Martha Dippell, Kitty Kelley. Back row: Jon Kevin Gossett, Bill Caldwell, Michele Roth, Joe Di Gangi, Larry Franks and guide Richard Roques. Courtesy Kitty Kelley. decades ahead of the British on race but avoid the subject of class. “You are in denial, and out of fear of talking about the working class and the underclasses, you put all your collegeeducated into the middle class.” Because British theater is partially subsidized by the government, ticket prices in the U.K. are lower than in the U.S. ($15 to $50 in the U.K. compared to $100 and above in the U.S.) and attract younger audiences. “But in both the U.S. and the U.K., 70 percent of all theatergoers are women,” said Kwei-Armah. “Because of our government subsidy, we can take plays to prisons and refugee centers where they’d never have access to high-quality theater or any theater at all. We go to them.” Kwei-Armah turned deadly serious on the subject of Brexit. “We are in the midst of a rather profound nervous breakdown here, and Brexit will nearly collapse theater in London and eviscerate all our touring companies,”
he said. “We are living in suspense and don’t know what’s going to happen, but we do know it’s going to be nasty, very nasty.” The Arena Stage troupe returned to Washington, D.C., thoroughly energized by their London theater adventure, which all pronounced “ab fab” (Brit-speak for “absolutely fabulous”). Georgetown resident Kitty Kelley has written several number-one New York Times best-sellers, including “The Family: The Real Story Behind the Bush Dynasty.” Her most recent books include “Capturing Camelot: Stanley Tretick’s Iconic Images of the Kennedys” and “Let Freedom Ring: Stanley Tretick’s Iconic Images of the March on Washington.”
GOOD WORKS & GOOD TIMES
José Andrés Receives Julia Child Citizens Enjoy an Elegant Affair Award BY R OB E RT DEVA NEY The Citizens Association of Georgetown held its Fall Cocktail Party Nov. 5 at the elegant N Street home of Nancy and Marc Duber. The classy crowd enjoyed top-drawer beef, charcuterie, cheeses and drinks, as violinist Angela Smart enchanted and Angela Lauria of the Author Incubator on 30th Street advised on writing success and gave out her latest book.
B Y R O B E RT D EVAN EY The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, home to Julia Child’s kitchen, hosted its fifth annual Smithsonian Food History Gala Nov. 7. The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts presented its Julia Child Award to José Andrés, chef, restaurateur and founder of World Central Kitchen for his “profound and significant impact on the way America cooks, eats and drinks.” Guests included four of the five recipients
of the past four awards—Jacques Pépin, Rick Bayless, Danny Meyer and Mary Sue Milliken—as well as Andrew Zimmern as the emcee and Ann Cashion and Samin Nosrat as featured speakers. Observed Andrés: “I cannot say that I am receiving this award as Jose Andres, but I receive this award on behalf of those so many others, people that sometimes give voice to the voiceless. …”
Anthea Hartig, director of the National Museum of American History, and awardee José Andrés. Photo by Jaclyn Nash, courtesy NMAH.
José Andrés and Jacques Pépin. Photo by Jaclyn Nash, courtesy NMAH.
Knock Out Abuse: Stand Up, Speak Out BY CHRISTINE WARNKE Speakers at the 26th Annual Knock Out and Abuse Gala held at the Ritz Carlton Nov. 7 focused on awareness and speaking out on domestic violence incidences which occur every 15 seconds in the United States. The gala saluted KOA co-founder and President Cheryl Davis Masri. One of the evening’s honoree was 16-year-old high school student Abigail Scharf, who spoke of growing up in an abusive household. Another honoree, Tony Porter, was recognized for his efforts to prevent violence against women while promoting a healthy, respectful manhood.
Hosts Nancy and Marc Duber.
CLB: Lighting the Way BY SU S A N BODIKE R An architect who lost his sight, a blind teen virtuoso pianist and a long-time sighted volunteer/mentor were among those honored at the Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind’s second annual gala held at the French Embassy Oct. 29. For 119 years, the organization has helped blind and visually impaired individuals overcome vision loss and lead productive lives. Through their stories, awardees and guests exemplified the “confidence of the white cane.” Photos by Michael K. Wilkinson for Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind
Mary Margaret Scharf, mother of 16-year-old honoree Abigail Scharf (center) and co-founder and President of Knock Out Abuse, Cheryl Masri. Photo by Patricia McDougall.
V, AS IN VICTORY OVER CANCER
V Foundation celebrated their goals to fight cancer at Georgetown’s newest neighborhood spot L’Annexe.
Marcia Dyson and Rebecca Cooper. Photo by Patricia McDougall.
Kellyn Mahan, host Julie Chase, Gary Nunes and Donna Evers
Busboys and Poets’s Andy Shallal presenting Montano with his award
Ashley Beaty, Greg Dahlberg, Lynly Boor and James Beaty
Correction: In the Nov. 6 issue, a photo caption was incorrect in the Meridian Ball story. It should have read: Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) and Gayle Manchin with Loran Aiken and Robbie Aiken, former Meridian Ball chairs. Photo by Stephen Bobb Photography. GMG, INC.
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