The Georgetowner: June 14, 2023 Issue

RED, WHITE & BLUE SUMMER FUN, T OO

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KITTY

PUBLISHER

Sonya Bernhardt

DIRECTOR OF CONTENT & ADVERTISING

Kate Oczypok

Model Katya Gribanova at the Washington Harbour penthouse terrace of Alan and Nancy Taylor Bubes celebrates Flag Day, observed on June 14 each year, marking the passage of the first American flag resolution. In 1777, a year after Betsy Ross received General Washington’s order to create the nation’s inaugural flag, the Second Continental Congress approved a flag measure. The setting above the Georgetown waterfront symbolizes the vibrancy witnessed within our own community that loves to fly the flag from their homes. Photography by Julie Zeger. Models Tatjana Gainey and Katya Gribanova from the THE Artist Agency.

SENIOR CORRESPONDENT

Peggy Sands

FEATURE EDITOR

Ari Post

FASHION & BEAUTY DIRECTOR

Allyson Burkhardt

Lauretta McCoy

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Troy Riemer

Laura Argentieri

Julie Payne

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Philip Bermingham

Bill Starrels

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Robert Devaney

MANAGING EDITOR

Christopher Jones

CONTRIBUTORS

Mary Bird

Susan Bodiker

Allyson Burkhardt

Didi Cutler

Donna Evers

Michelle Galler

Amos Gelb

Wally Greeves

Kitty Kelley

Rebekah Kelley

Jody Kurash

Shelia Moses

Kate Oczypok

Linda Roth

Alison Schafer

Celia Sharpe

Mary

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The GeorGeTowner is published in print monthly with an online newsletter supplement posted twice per week — On Mondays we highlight news and on Thursdays goings on about town. 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 2023.

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MAYOR AMONG THE MANY FRIENDS OF VOLTA PARK

BY ROBERT DEVANEY

Mayor Muriel Bowser, a loyal supporter of Volta Park, with Georgetown Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Mimsy Lindner, past president of the Friends of Volta Park, at the George Town Club on June 3. Photo by Robert Devaney.

CELEBRATING “BE-YOU-TIFUL” ACCEPTANCE, KIDS AND FAMILIES MARCH FOR PRIDE IN GEORGETOWN

BY CHRISTOPHER JONES

March organizer Ruth Fitts, library associate in the Children’s Room of the Georgetown Neighborhood Library with pride-themed unicorn. Photo by Chris Jones.

TUDOR PLACE’S 31ST GARDEN PARTY HONORS DIANA PRINCE

BY ROBERT DEVANEY

Garden Party co-chairs Julia Cottafavi and Paige Shirk with Board of Trustees President Mary Moffett Keaney and Daisy Prince Chisholm, daughter of honoree Diana Prince. Photo by Jay Snapp-La Dexon Photographie. Courtesy Tudor Place.

REX CARNEGIE: PUTTING TOGETHER THE IDEAL LEARNING EXPERIENCE ON THE C&O CANAL

BY CHRISTOPHER JONES

Rex Carnegie, director of education and partnerships for Georgetown Heritage. Courtesy Georgetown Heritage.

THE LATEST DISH: CHEF RIS LACOSTE HONORED

BY LINDA ROTH

Chef Ris Lacoste of Ris is flanked by Kathy Hollinger, former RAMW head, and Greg Casten of Profish and Tony & Joe’s.

BIGGEST HITS ONLINE

2,386 PAGE VIEWS

Villa Yara: One of Georgetown’s Loveliest Havens

1,274 PAGE VIEWS

Hardy Middle School Principal Suddenly Transferred

1,127 PAGE VIEWS

Business Ins & Outs: Cafe con Bagel, Citibank; &pizza

NEWS BYTES

BY KATE OCZYPOK

ANC MEETING: A LITTLE LONELY

The ANC2E meeting was held both in-person and virtually on Zoom this month. With only 5 attending in-person, it was mostly uneventful -- except one piece from the crime report: the increasing number of complaints about loud noise from boats moored at or near the Washington Harbour, or passing along on the Potomac. A Harbor Master official said there are no specific regulations about disturbing noise from boats on the water before 10 p.m., but during the night there are some legal options. Also, BUI – Boating Under the Influence – can always lead to arrest.

BOWSER’S HILL TESTIMONY ON D.C. POLICE BILL WAS CIVIL

Last month, Mayor Muriel Bowser introduced a new legislative proposal to toughen up police procedures. The Longworth Building on Capitol Hill was packed by 9:30 a.m. on May 16, with news cameras and protesters with signs reading “Hands Off

DC!” The group was there to protest actions taken by Congress to nullify laws legislated by the D.C. Council. Interactions between the mayor and Republican members of Congress were surprisingly civil, however, given party differences. At about 5 p.m., disapproval of D.C.’s police reform bill was passed in backto-back sessions of the House and the Senate, but President Biden said he would veto the legislation if it came to his desk.

KITTY KELLEY GIVES $1 MILLION TO BIOGRAPHERS INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION

Renowned biographer Kitty Kelley (“Oprah,” “The Royals”), has donated $1 million to the Biographers International Organization (BIO), beginning this month. The gift will be given in increments of $200,000 over the next five years. BIO’s president Linda Leavell formally

GOP Influencer: C. Boyden Gray

BY KATE OCZYPOK

Clayland Boyden “C. Boyden” Gray, former White House counsel to President George H.W. Bush, has passed away at the age of 80 at his home in Washington, D.C. His son-in-law Nick Summers named the cause of death as a “heart ailment.”

Gray was a Washingtonian lawyer who

was influential in guiding Republican judicial and Justice Department nominees as a key fundraiser and strategist. Clay bonded with then-Vice President-elect George H.W. Bush (they both shared an Ivy League background and many social connections). Both belonged to the Alibi Club, a D.C. group shrouded in secrecy with presidents, senators and diplomats as members.

Gray became Bush’s counsel and deputy chief of staff, later serving as legal counsel on Bush’s 1988 presidential campaign. He was given the position of White House counsel after Bush defeated former Massachusetts governor Michael Dukakis.

Gray had some tension with Secretary of State James A. Baker III after Gray leaked to the media that Baker had stock in bank holding loans to developing countries (a possible conflict of interest). Gray’s holdings of his own drew some inspection — he ended up resigning as chairman of a family corporation. The strain between Baker and

accepted the gift at the end of May during the organization’s annual conference at the Leon Levy Center for Biography. Kelley has been a regular contributor to The Georgetowner, running Kitty Kelley’s Book Club for years.

HARDY MIDDLE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL SUDDENLY TRANSFERRED

Hardy Middle School Principal Errol Johnson was transferred abruptly last month after a petition by parents of the school called for his removal. The parents accused Johnson of poor communication, drops in academic performance and widespread dysfunctional mismanagement. Brandon Eatman, a DCPS principal-in-residence who’s been with the D.C. schools’ district for nearly 30 years will act as Hardy’s principal through the end of the academic year.

CITIZENS ASSOCIATION OF GEORGETOWN HOSTS SECOND COMMUNITY MEETING

The primary focus of the Citizens Association of Georgetown’s May 18 community meeting was rats. A group of neighbors from 32nd Street, in collaboration with John Wiebenson and Jorge Rochac from the Georgetown BID, are planning on working together to eradicate rodent infestation. Using special dogs and dry ice, they identify rat holes and flush them out, eliminating the pests.

Gray unfortunately never completely healed. Gray helped negotiate amendments to the Clean Air Act in 1990 and three years later, returned to a partnership at Wilmer, Cutler & Pickering where he worked in regulatory law and as a lobbyist. President George W. Bush later named Gray as ambassador to the European Union in 2006. As the Bush administration’s second term wound down, Gray served as special envoy for European affairs and special envoy for Eurasian energy.

Perhaps what is most intriguing about Gray is that he had been a clerk for Chief Justice Earl Warren before switching from his family’s longtime Democratic Party roots to become a Republican. He got swept up in the excitement of the Reagan administration in the 1980s.

Gray was raised in North Carolina in a wealthy family who earned their money from banking, tobacco and communications holdings. He was tall and slim, at six foot-six inches, with thick eyebrows. A tennis aficionado, he played regularly with Katharine Graham of the

Washington Post. He was also a member of the Four Seasons Spa down the street.

Gray had many Georgetown friends and connections and took delight in his house at the corner of 28th and Q Streets NW. He told the Washington Post in 2019 about the house: “The garden was always very, very beautiful.” Gray was “a generous supporter of educational causes, ranging from the Bishop Walker School for Boys, to the Gray professorships at the UNC Law School and the Harvard School of Public Health, to the battle for charter schools and school choice in Washington, D.C.,” according to his law firm. A former adjunct professor at NYU Law School, he founded the C. Boyden Gray Center for the Study of the Administrative State at George Mason University’s Antonin Scalia Law School.

In March 2018, Gray’s house was the site of an unannounced meeting when President Donald Trump traveled to Georgetown to dine with megadonors for his upcoming 2020 campaign.

Georgetowner and GOP Influencer C. Boyden Gray with Ronald Reagan.

Georgetown Village to Celebrate New Programs Putting Seniors in Active Social Loop

BY PEGGY SANDS

The Georgetown Village is holding its annual spring gala Wednesday, June 14, at the stunning multi-terraced waterfront penthouse of philanthropist Nancy Taylor Bubes and they have a lot to celebrate. There’s the growth of their members and volunteers’ continual service since 2011 when Georgetown Village was founded as one of the seventeen aging-in-place “village” services in the Washington area.

In addition, they’re celebrating their “game changing” recent move and re-invention as a friendly and accessible, isolation-busting gathering place at their spacious and beautifully decorated new headquarters at the former Filmore School at 1801 35th St. NW. Even more, the Georgetown Village members, volunteers and supporters will

YEARS

celebrate Wednesday the launching of several new and expanded popular programs and services provided by the Village to meet the needs of Georgetowners 55-years and older.

Village offerings on site and virtual include hands-on information workshops and activities such as exercise (a weekly Monday class at the Village), health care and crisis management, social activities from coffee chats every Thursday, to women’s and men’s luncheons, a weekly coffee chat drop-in on Thursdays, men’s luncheons and current affairs discussions with prominent Georgetowners in-the-know (many of them members), and fun activities from movies and excursions such as one planned this month to Planet World the new word museum in D.C. They also include continued services

to provide transportation for members to shop and go to medical appointments; and home repair services from changing light-bulbs, helping with computer hookup problems and even to do annual gardening chores.

“The programs are part of our mission to help you stay in your home for as long as you wish to remain there and to prevent social isolation, according to Village Director Lynn Golub-Rofrano.

The gala will also be the kick-off to several new programs that members have suggested such as regular gatherings to listen to and discuss Ted Talks and to expand the online discussions of well “just-about everything” called “Cocktails, Conversation and Community” that’s retained its popularity since the Covid shut down. The discussions

are available on YouTube.

“The gala also will feature the launch of a uniquely intimate quarterly interview and conversation program of prominent newsmakers in honor of Georgetown Village founding member, Q St. resident and wellknown CBS/NPR political commentator and journalist Bill Plante.” Plante died September 28, 2022. His wife Robin Smith, an Emmy award-winning filmmaker and owner/ director of Video/Action explained to The Georgetowner, “We envision the programs as a series of conversations, depicting Bill’s interview style that often turned his long news interviews into deep conversations revealing what drove the viewpoints and perspectives of his guests.” Smith will present the new series at the gala.

Georgetown Village is launching a “Conversations” program to honor longtime “Georgetown Village founding member, Q St. resident and CBS/NPR political commentator and journalist Bill Plante.” Bill Plante on CBS News in New York. Image dated April 24, 1989. Photo by CBS via Getty Image.

Crime: Mayor Names Interim Police Chief, Will Host ‘Teletownhall’ for Input on Permanent Chief

BY CHRISTOPHER JONES

Outside MPD headquarters on Friday evening May 19, a WUSA 9 reporter relayed a dramatic announcement from D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s office to a “city grappling” with issues of “public safety.”

Effective June 3, upon outgoing MPD Chief Robert Contee’s retirement to join the FBI, the department’s second-in-command, Executive Assistant Chief Ashan Benedict – who was appointed in April 2021 to the job by Chief Contee – assumed the role of MPD interim chief, pending completion of an expedited nationwide search process for a permanent chief of police for the nation’s capital.

As MPD’s executive officer, Benedict has been responsible for managing day-to-day operations, under Chief Contee, for the District’s police force of approximately 3,700 sworn members and over 600 civilian employees.

Benedict served for more than 25 years at the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) where he specialized in investigating gun violence, drug trafficking and violent crime. As ATF Special Agent in Charge of the DC Field Division, he served as the on-scene Incident Commander for ATF’s deployment at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. In his ATF career, he was also involved in responses to many major crises, including the 9/11 attack on the Pentagon, the Beltway Sniper investigation, the Navy Yard active-shooter investigation and the response to Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans in 2005.

Four hours ago,” the reporter said, “outgoing police chief Robert Contee said that Benedict was the right man for the job,” and “…they made the right decision,” adding that the transition would be “seamless.”

At a May 19 press conference, Benedict reinforced the sensibleness of his appointment as interim MPD chief. “I work with Chief Contee. I’m with him every single day. I oversee our patrol operations, our investigations, [and] our Homeland Security Bureau,” Benedict said.

Chief Contee concurred with Benedict. “He’s been in the same space with me, with the mayor, he’s been in the community, and acts for me now when I’m out of the area on business travel, or

away with the family or something like that,” Chief Contee said of Benedict. “And he has an even temperament. And in this job, it is certainly [one] where you have to have a temperament where [the] community will certainly support you and where they feel confident in your abilities to be able to address issues of concern to them.”

Contee emphasized that Benedict will continue to implement MPD’s community policing and gun violence prevention strategies. Benedict, “comes from a background of focusing on guns — from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and if you look at it over 80 percent of the homicides in the District of Columbia are gun related, illegal firearm related,” Contee said. MPD has reported violent crime rates for the District have risen 14 percent and property crimes have increased 30 percent compared to this time last year.

Benedict announced he’s not interested in permanently leaving his role as executive assistant chief. While Mayor Bowser gave no specifics about timeframes or number of candidates under consideration in the search process, she declared she’s looking for a “leader and a crimefighter.”

Following Mayor Bowser’s community input survey to gather public feedback on the MPD Chief search (held from June 3-14), the mayor intends to host a local “teletownhall” to gather perspectives from residents on their priorities for the next police chief.

“We’re incredibly proud of the Metropolitan Police Department,” said Mayor Bowser. “As a community, we have worked hard to build a police department that represents and reflects our city, and our officers are in our neighborhoods every day connecting with residents and businesses. As we continue our nationwide search for a new police chief, I encourage all Washingtonians to provide their input on the future of public safety in D.C. and the next Chief of Police.”

On Thursday, June 15 at 6:00 p.m., Mayor Bowser invites residents to participate in the “teletownhall.” Residents can join by dialing 1 (844) 881-1314. To view the event, visit mayor. dc.gov/live, tune in on Channel 16 (DCN), or watch on Mayor Bowser’s Facebook or Twitter. Register in advance at Eventbrite.com (search for “Mayor Bowser’s Chief of Police.”

Ashan Benedict has been named MPD’s Interim Police Chief. Courtesy MPD.

When Will PNC Bank’s Iconic Gold Dome Be Refurbished?

“Spring Cleaning Should Be for Everyone,” we editorialized last month, praising the Georgetown BID’s various efforts to spruce up Georgetown’s commercial district.

But we wanted to give the Farmers & Mechanics branch of PNC Bank at Wisconsin and M Streets the chance to respond to our criticism that, for the sake of community, perhaps they might “slap a little ‘gold’ paint” on their building’s iconic cupula.

After all, the building is not just a random bank. No more recognizable landmark for the Georgetown commercial district exists than the 1922 neoclassical bank’s topping, with gold-leaf added in 1961 when Riggs National Bank operated on the site. In 1967 the building became a “contributing property” to the Georgetown Historic District’s designation as a National Historic Landmark District.

Sadly, the gold dome and cupola atop the rounded corner portico is now looking faded and sad. But what’s the bank doing about it?

We provided the bank’s branch manager, Anamul Hassan, time and notice to provide us a statement but received no response from his office. Senior relations banker, Garrett

Gallego, however, spoke with us. “Our gold dome is a figure in the Georgetown community. It’s such a shame to see [it] fading,” he said. “It’s one of the most photographed buildings in town. And despite [the project] possibly being expensive, I’d love to see it re-painted.” But the decision to re-paint the gold dome has to be kicked up to PNC’s Realty Services, Gallego emphasized, and that has yet to be done.

Another PNC employee privy to discussions told us “It’s much more complicated than ‘simply slapping gold paint’ on the thing.” The requirement to mount scaffolding for the project would also be difficult, [they] suggested. After consultations with management, however, [they] decided “No comment” was the best response.

While bureaucratic inertia might help explain why the gilding continues to fade, tight finances are no excuse. According to March 2023 financial statements, PNC is a $42 billion company “managing $562 billion in assets.”

Certainly, some scaffolding, gold-leaf or paint can be requisitioned.

Georgetown’s Old & New: Restaurant & Retail Resilience

If there’s anything Georgetown, the oldest neighborhood in the nation’s capital, knows how to do is re-invent itself, partially every now and then. Today, the resilient town is undergoing a restaurant and retail renaissance, while celebrating its mainstays. Some have even called Georgetown “cool” again.

What’s the secret to the town’s continuing success? Many things, of course. But its ability to manage and direct the creative chaos of the old and the new is high on the list.

The beloved Martin’s Tavern, at its famous corner at Wisconsin Avenue and N Street, is about to hit 90-years-old! That would be 1933, the first year of FDR’s administration. Filomena Ristorante at 1063 Wisconsin Ave. NW is celebrating its 40th anniversary. The classic Italian restaurant has been feeding generations of Georgetowners, Washingtonians and everyone else since May 23, 1983. The ever-popular Peacock Cafe is almost middle-aged with its 32nd year on Prospect Street. The 10-year-old Chez Billy Sud reopened at 1039 31st St. NW after renovations. And who’s one of the first to stop

Save the G2, D2 and D6

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) recently announced its proposed “Visionary Network” of new Metrobus routes which may impact your access to Georgetown via public transit. They can be seen at: https://betterbus.wmata.com/ discover.

button and place your comment on the current stop you care about.

3. In the “New Comment” pop-up window, type why WMATA should not remove this current stop.

4. Click the “Submit” button.

by? Barack and Michelle Obama.

Established in 1919, Sara’s Market on Q Street has been resurrected. Streets Market opened in the former 7-Eleven space on P Street, and some who entered the new grocery store wept for joy. Heck, even Wingo’s is returning to O Street.

Let us again cite Lutèce, Green Almond Pantry, Apéro, L’Avant-Garde, Yellow, Maman and Villa Yara— and the future Osteria Mozza, Two Nine and Kyojin Sushi.

While the much-commented-upon Booeymonger, Saxbys and Intermix are gone, we can look to the recent openings of Alo Yoga, Todd Snyder clothes, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream and Dig eatery.

There’s movement on new construction with demolitions and renovations at the old West Heating Plant (Four Seasons condos), the 2900 M project (retail and housing) and those metal beams at 3000 M St. (former Latham Hotel).

There’s more to write about, of course. Are there some spots missing? Yes, we’ll be right on it. Enjoy the creative chaos. The more things change …

Please take a moment to review the map of WMATA’s proposed routes (at https:// betterbus.wmata.com/downloads/routes/ Draft_Visionary_Network_DC.pdf ) to learn how it might impact you. For example, the proposal would eliminate the existing direct G2 Metrobus route through the Georgetown neighborhood. DC100, the newly-proposed route, would combine the G2 and D2 routes, thereby eliminating many existing stops. We encourage all community members who are concerned about accessible public transit to submit a comment on the G2 route and other routes of interest by the new extended deadline of June 18. For example, if you wish to express any concerns about the elimination of the 3700 O St. NW stop of the G2 you could “place” your comment directly at that location by:

1. At the top of the Comment on Your Route page, select the G2 line.

2. In the “Add Comment box” on the right side of the page, click the “I dislike”

Letter to the Editor

Supporting The Hoyas

I picked up the April 12 issue of The Georgetowner today at Jack Taylor Toyota on Route 1 in my hometown, Alexandria. I guess Jack Taylor Toyota gets customers from fashionable GEORGETOWN. I am now 62 yearsold. I recently retired from my Department of Defense career at joint base Fort Meyers/ Henderson Hall in Arlington. I don’t get over to GEORGETOWN that much anymore. I went to the Georgetown University football game

We encourage you to both provide your own direct feedback and share with other interested parties.

The university’s Office of Government Relations & Community Engagement has actively been working with the community and local stakeholders on facilitating feedback to WMATA, and have submitted a letter to the WMATA board on behalf of Georgetown University raising concerns about the impacts of proposed changes to the G2, D2, and D6 bus routes. The Georgetown community has previously been effective in shaping WMATA’s proposed changes to Metrobus routes in 2020 and 2021 through submission of public comments. Thank you for your attention to this important community matter.

Chris Murphy serves as vice president for government relations and community engagement in the Office of Neighborhood Life at Georgetown University.

last fall against Columbia. I went to my first Georgetown game 45 years ago in November 1978. I was a freshman at George Mason University in Fairfax then. I’m sending you some memorabilia from that game with “W-and-L.” Oh the good old days! Your paper should support GU Hoyas’ athletics.

— Greg Paspitil

BY CHRIS MURPHY

Proposed changes to Metro bus routes affect Georgetown University students and employees. Courtesy WMATA.

Citizens Honor Ukraine, Georgetown Leaders at Annual Meeting

BY ROBERT DEVANEY

The Citizens Association of Georgetown (CAG) continued its support and love of besieged Ukraine by presenting Ambassador Oksana Markarova with its Diplomacy Award at its annual meeting, held at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts on May 9.

The grateful Markarova responded by saying she felt so at home in Georgetown — where the Ukrainian Embassy sits at 34th and M Streets —

that she expects to hold a CAG gathering in Kyiv in the next year or so.

Also at the meeting, Mayor Muriel Bowser spoke to the audience about the current D.C. budget discussions and difficulties as well as her comeback plan for the city — and took questions, which included one about parking, of course. Ward 2 Council member Brooke Pinto echoed the mayor in her opposition to taxing

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

MEETING OF THE COMMISSION OF FINE ARTS

June 15, 9:00 a.m 401 F. Street NW, Suite 312. Filing deadline: June 1.

CULTURE POWER BREAKFAST WITH DR. JOHATHAN BINSTOCK, CEO OF THE PHILLIPS COLLECTION

June 22, 8:30 a.m.

Doors open 8:00 a.m., Talk begins 8:30 a.m. — Hosted by The Georgetowner, Four Seasons Hotel, 2800 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. For ticket info go to Georgetowner.com.

CHILDREN’S STORY TIME IN GEORGETOWN WATERFRONT PARK

June 27, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Near Wisconsin Ave. and Water Street entrance. Join for a quiet, sit-down storytime, on the lawn, under the trees.

VIRTUAL MEETING OF ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION ANC 2E

June 29, 6:30 p.m. For agenda go to anc2e.com.

NATIONAL INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE

July 4, 11:45 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Along Constitution Ave. NW from 7th to 17th Streets NW. For more info go to July4thparade.com.

SMITHSONIAN FOLKLIFE FESTIVAL ON THE NATIONAL MALL

June 29-July 4, July 6-9

The festival highlights the culture of the Ozarks and “Creative Encounters.” Free. Produced by the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage. Features participants from all 50 states and 100+ countries. Go to Festival.si.edu or call 202-633-6440 for more information.

INDEPENDENCE DAY FIREWORKS ON THE NATIONAL MALL

July 4, Starting 9:09 p.m. National Park Service. Fireworks will be launched from both sides of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. For info go to NPS.gov/foju.

FOR FULL LISTING OF EVENTS VISIT OUR ONLINE CALENDAR.

for-hire vehicles in downtown and to defunding the K Street transit project. Pinto spoke of being in “beautiful Duke Ellington School” and supporting improvements for Hardy Middle School and Jelleff Center — and cited public safety as her number-one issue.

The CAG awards portion of the evening saluted those well-known and well-deserving.

The Belin Award went to Rick Murphy, former chair of the Georgetown-Burleith Advisory Neighborhood Commission — “for Distinguished Service to the Georgetown Community.”

The William A. Cochrane Award went to the Georgetown House Tour (represented by St. John’s Rector Gini Gerbasi) — “for Exceptional Efforts to Protect & Enhance the Community’s Architectural Resources.”

The Charles Antherton Award went to Metropolitan Police Commander Duncan Bedlion — “for Exceptional Service by a Dedicated Public-Sector Professional for Outstanding Work Preserving & Protecting Historic Georgetown.”

The Martin-Davidson Award went to Potomac Wine & Spirits — “for an Outstanding Business that has Contributed Significantly to

the Georgetown Community.”

Special Appreciation Awards went to Florence Auld, Patrick Clawson, Jennifer Romm and Karin Wheeler — “for Dedicated Service to the Georgetown Community.”

At the meeting, a new slate of officers and board members was elected.

Officers:

• Tara Sakraida Parker, President

• Larry Flanagan, Vice-President

• Claire Voorhees, Treasurer

• Ellen Eisenberg, Secretary

Board of Directors:

• Stephanie Bothwell

• Christi Cline

• Katherine Hasty

• Darcy Nauman

• Nash Peart

• Tom Ryan

• Dr. Amy Titus

• Paul K. Williams

Brittany Sawyer is the Executive Director of the Citizens Association of Georgetown. Visit CAGtown.org for more information.

Rick Murphy received the Belin Award for Distinguished Service to the Georgetown Community — presented by CAG President Tara Sakraida Parker and Ward 2 Council member Brooke Pinto. Courtesy CAG.

INS & OUTS

BY ROBERT DEVANEY

IN: CHEZ BILLY SUD REOPENS, AND OBAMAS DINE THERE

A little more than a week ago, 10-year-old restaurant Chez Billy Sud reopened at 1039 31st St. NW after renovations of the bistro, private dining room and patio that began in January. And who’s one of the first to stop by? Barack and Michelle Obama and friends on June 9.

Earlier, executive chef and partner Brendan L’Etoile, had told The Georgetowner he was excited to bring Chez Billy Sud back and “give our clients what we feel made our restaurant so special from the get-go — honest bistro cooking and hospitality. We’re also grateful to our guests for their support.”

IN: DISTRICT DOUGHNUT IS BACK

District Doughnut, formerly at 3327 Cady’s Alley NW, has reopened at 3333 M St. NW, once home to Sweetgreen, and long before that, a Little Tavern. Every day, doors open at 9 a.m. and remain open until the doughnuts sell out.

IN: ALO YOGA AT WISC. & M

The yoga clothing and accessory company — “studio-to-street sweet” — Alo has taken over the Georgetown retail space previously

occupied by Banana Republic at the corner of Wisconsin Avenue and M Street, 3200 M St. NW. It opened on June 9.

IN: DIPTYQUE REOPENS

Diptyque, the luxury French fragrance brand, has reopened at 3273 M St. NW, having made its debut just before Christmas. Founded in the 1960s, St. Germain Diptyque is best known for its high-priced candles.

IN: THE POPPY ON P REPLACES THE AVERY

The boutique hotel Avery at 2616 P St. NW has undergone a rebrand. It’s now officially The Poppy Georgetown Guesthouse and Gardens.

IN:

SARA’S MARKET

RESURRECTED ON Q

Vivien Tsang and John Michael Kushner, co-owners of Dent Place Market, have reopened Sara’s Market at 3008 Q St. NW which closed its doors last June — a closure many thought would be permanent. The food store looks shiny and new, as its new owners renovated the space, inside and out. Established in 1919, Sara’s will continue to offer dry cleaning services as had Dent Place Market.

IN: TODD SNYDER FASHIONS ON M

Todd Snyder, a New York City-based chain of men’s clothing stores, has opened at 3211 M St. NW, succeeding Billy Reid, which operated from 2013 until the pandemic hit. The property was occupied by Pizzeria Uno from 1981 through 2012.

IN: STUDS, ‘SEAMLESS PIERCING’

Studs, a groovy, celebrity-approved, onestop, ear-piercing destination and earring shop at 3288 M St. NW opened its first location, one block west of Georgetown Park stores, on May 25.

IN: CAFÉ CON BAGEL

Owner Pablo Salazar opened his coffee and bagel joint at 1332 Wisconsin Ave. NW in the former space for Petite Soeur and, before that, the Cookie Dough Jar and, before that, Beard Papa, a cream puff shop.

OUT: SAXBYS, A HOYA FAVORITE, REPLACED BY COFFEE REPUBLIC

Saxbys Coffee abruptly departed the corner of 35th & O at the end of May and has been replaced by Coffee Republic, founded in 2006 in Rockville.

Saxbys told The Georgetowner: “Georgetown has been a special place for Saxbys. For the last 16 years, we’ve had the true honor and privilege of being a staple in the neighborhood, serving guests and the community at large,” said Russ Wilkin, Saxbys’ Senior Vice President of Brand & Cafes. “Sadly, our franchise partners decided it was time to move on from the location, and we wish the best of luck to both them and the new occupants of the space. While this chapter may have come to an end, we hope to be back in the future as we grow The Saxbys Experiential Learning Platform across the region.”

Saxbys opened at 3500 O St. NW in 2006, replacing Sugar’s Campus Store which had occupied the spot for 85 years.

OUT: &PIZZA

The &pizza at 1335 Wisconsin Ave. NW abruptly closed last month. The Georgetown location opened in November 2016 in the former Five Guys hamburger joint. The corner property was most famous for being

Au Pied de Cochon (1976-2004), serving late night French food and the scene of a Soviet spy escape from CIA operatives in 1985. Originally called H&pizza, the business was founded in 2012 by Michael Lastoria and Steve Salis, with the first shop opening in July 2012 on H Street NE. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., it boasts 36 locations along the East Coast.

OUT: ARLANDRIA FLOORS

The flooring showroom at 3210 O St. NW is now empty, but its original location continues on Mount Vernon Avenue in Alexandria.

OUT: SCOTCH & SODA

The Scotch & Soda clothing store — which returned to Georgetown on March 31, at 1214 Wisconsin Ave. NW, next to El Centro— closed abruptly last month.

OUT: THE SHOWROOM

The Showroom at 1363 Wisconsin Ave. NW, which had taken over the former space of Riccardi Clothier, has closed. The sneaker boutique was set up to buy and sell top-shelf sneakers.

COMING: FRAME ON M

Frame is set to occupy the store abandoned by Michael Kors during the pandemic. Renovations are ongoing at 3105 M St. NW. Founded in 2010, Frame is an American fashion-retail company, known for its denim jeans and hand bags, that designs and sells high-end clothing for men and women.

FORMER GAP TO BECOME CITIBANK

An expediter for the property owner and Citibank has submitted a conceptual plan to the Old Georgetown Board for a Citibank Center at 1258 Wisconsin Ave. NW, the former Gap space, next to Martin’s Tavern. As first reported by the Georgetown Metropolitan, the stand-out white building will contain, among other amenities, a Citigold lounge.

The property owner is TI Asset Management, Inc., of Marietta, Georgia. No timeline for construction or completion was provided.

SOON: WINGO’S FIRST ROOST RETURNING

Work continues at Wingo’s chicken shack at 3207 O St. NW — finally flying back to its original coop after a fire shut it down in 2018.

At the new District Doughnut location: Khari Lewis, Matthew Trunkey, store manager Leonidas Williams and Clayton Bond. Georgetowner photo.

Alo Yoga opens at Wisc. & M.

Red, White & Blue

Summer Fun, Too

Just in time for Flag Day and our June swimsuit cover shoot, Nancy Taylor Bubes welcomes The Georgetowner to her penthouse suite at Washington Harbour. Her multi-tiered, private terrace and dipping pool overlook the Potomac with skyline views of the city, providing the perfect setting for a summer soirée, and proving you don’t need plane tickets to reach your summer retreat. Check out an urban oasis that celebrates summer in the city, featuring fashionwear from Georgetown businesses.

Ramy Brook V-Neck Swimsuit

Dolce & Gabbana Plunge Swimsuit

Accessories by Let’s Get Dressed!

LEFT

Sunglass by See Eyewear

Zimmerman Spliced Swimsuit

Oversized Hat by Let’s Get Dressed! Lavish Ruffled Earrings

CENTER

Camilla High Triangle Swimsuit

Earrings by Oscar de la Renta

RIGHT

Ella Canvas Tote Supplied by Tory Burch

Johanna Ortiz Belted Swimsuit

FASHION DIRECTOR: ALLYSON BURKHARDT

PHOTOGRAPHER: JULIE ZEGER

PHOTO ASSISTANT: KATHY ZONIS

MODELS AND STYLISTS: THE Artist Agency

HAIR/MAKEUP: ANITA BAHRAMY

MODEL: TATJANA GAINEY

MODEL: KATYA GRIBANOVA

CASTING DIRECTOR: SONDRA HOFFMAN

STYLIST ASSISTANT: SHANELLE BUTLER

Sunglasses by See Eyewear Scoop Cami One-Piece Provided by Tuckernuck

Ramy Brook Drawstring Cover-Up Accessories by Let’s Get Dressed!

LOOK #629 FELLINI Ramy Brook Drawstring CoverUp Swimsuit Provided by Tuckernuck Accessories by Let’s Get Dressed!

LOOK #199 S TRAWBERRIES @ PICNIC Speckled Blue Caftan –Complements of Tuckernuck

Nelle Earrings

Barbour Sunhat

Jade Swim

Luna Swimsuit

Cocktail of the Month

The Sour-sicle, Inspired by Bali Beaches

BY JODY KURASH

June is here and time to create some Facebook envy. It seems like everyone’s social media feed is lit up with glam shots of summer vacation fun.

Where I live in Bali, around every bend there’s an Instagrammable moment, whether you’re waiting hours in line for the perfect shot of you striking a yoga pose at the gate to a sacred volcano or snapping yourself cascading on a swing over rice terraces in a flowing gown. New spots with photo-ops have been popping up like mushrooms since the island reopened to tourism last year.

However, one place seems to have outdone them all. The Atlas Beachfest bills itself as the biggest beach club in the world. Nestled on a white-sand beach with cerulean waves, this destination opened in 2022 to flashy headlines like “Longest Beach Bar in Asia” and “Biggest Street Market in Bali.”

The outside looks like an imposing glittery dam, which serves first as a divider from the pesky street traffic, and second as a ritzy waterfall on the inside welcoming you into a world apart. The immediate area within is set up like a quaint island village with shops and restaurants before spilling out into an enchanting sprawling beach and pool area.

My first stop was a village tavern where I am gifted a cocktail “passport” that allows patrons to collect “stamps” for every drink at each bar in the complex. Once you’ve gathered stamps from at least five bars you’ve earned a free cocktail.

I’m introduced to bartender Gabriel Octavianus Sebastian, who would be filling my glasses with beguiling concoctions and stamping my passport for the better part of the afternoon. I started with a crisp sparkling

refresher forged from pineapple, pandan (a popular Southeast Asian sweet), sparkling wine and Jim Beam.

Next, I am whisked away into fantasy land of crisp white beach loungers along what seems like a never-ending infinity pool. At a laid-back tiki bar Gabriel shakes up a beachy libation served in a pineapple. Forged from rum, pineapple, banana and Thai basil, this cocktail is elevated with a passionfruit moose and brown sugar which is torched to create a crème brulee merengue.

In the center of the club, a long bar stretches as far as the eye can see. Gabriel prepares me one of his favorite elixirs, the Monkey Business, which gets its name from Monkey Shoulder Scotch. The drink had a strangely familiar aroma that I couldn’t put my finger on… a little sweet… a little buttery… I grew more intrigued with each sip… until it dawned on me. Popcorn! Suddenly, I feel like I’m at the cinema watching a glitzy movie where I’m the heroine being pampered in an exotic locale.

My next treat, a spicy mango margarita, arrived in a coconut bowl. It boasted fruity notes followed by a punch from jalapenos. This rustic libation was topped with a fluffy coconut foam. As Gabriel shared one with me, I giggled as it left a white mustache on his smiling bronzed face.

There’s also a rooftop bar designed to catch that perfect sunset InstaPic. Here I was treated to the Sour-sicle … a fresh-mango popsicle immersed into a mix of gin and bubblegum syrup. Its alluring presentation and the simple recipe would make its visually appealing sensation easily served at your next backyard summer soirée.

While I’ve read that bubblegum cocktails have been gaining steam in the States, this combination sounded bizarre. Surprisingly, it created a lovely essence, like a refined herbal gin candy, without any cloying flavor. The dryness of Gordon’s gin, as opposed to many of today’s floral gins, gave this cocktail a decidedly adult twist, while the popsicle tempered the alcohol content. I started to imagine the Swiss Ricola trumpeters as sexy cabana boys grooving on the beach.

Finally, we finished my tour at a low-key beachfront deck just in time for afternoon tea. I had a stately take on a whiskey sour

The Sour sicle

INGREDIENTS

•

•

•

INSTRUCTIONS

constructed with jasmine tea. The whiskey and tea blended so harmoniously together, I wondered why this pairing isn’t more popular worldwide.

By this time, all the pages of my passport were stamped, except for the lively nightclub that was hours away from opening. I reflected on the magnificent cocktails, but was unable to pick a favorite due to vast differences in their styles, spirits and seasonings. The only thing left for me to do was to create a little FOMO and snap some selfies of me sauntering around this dreamy destination.

T H E P E R F E C T

P L A C E F O R

S U M M E R

F U N

Combine the first four ingredients in a shaker. Pour into a chilled martini glass. Add popsicle.

• 2 OZ. GORDON’S GIN (OR ANOTHER DRY GIN)

• ½ OZ. BUBBLEGUM SIMPLE SYRUP

½ OZ. LEMON JUICE

½ OZ. TRIPLE SEC

1 FROZEN ALL-FRUIT POPSICLE (MANGO RECOMMENDED)

This month’s cocktail, the Sour-sicle, is inspired by cocktails from The Atlas Beachfest which bills itself as the biggest beach club in the world. Photo by Jody Kurash.

Tribute to Photographer Jeff Malet, Our Dear Friend and Colleague

BY KATE OCZYPOK

With great sadness, we are sharing some heartbreaking news: we lost a great friend and colleague this week after a brief illness. Jeffrey Malet, whom we affectionately knew as Jeff, was our photographer for years, documenting not only important events on Capitol Hill but local events around Georgetown and from within our newsroom.

Jeff was always the man-on-the-scene in Washington. Whenever there was a parade, bike race, protest, tennis tournament or dance performance in town, or one of our Cultural Leadership Breakfasts, Jeff had his camera and telephoto lens ready. He was always on hand to pitch in with stories, ideas and observations and served as one of our esteemed photography judges in our last photography competition for our October 2021 photo story.

Jeff spent more than 20 years as a recognized securities portfolio manager. In addition to being a regular contributor to The Georgetowner, Jeff was a credentialed photographer on Capitol Hill. His work was published in local, national and international publications. Just some of the publications his work appeared in include: The Washington Post, The New York Times, NBC Nightly News, ABC News, Bloomberg, NPR, USA Today, Good Housekeeping and much, much more. His brother Philip mentioned that Jeff was also his family’s official historian and photographer, having compiled an ancestral chart and filmed most family events. Visit georgetowner.com for full story.

Jeff Malet, 1952-2023. Courtesy photo.

Actress Gal Gadot seen suspended by wires above Pennsylvania Avenue during the filming of “Wonder Woman 1984” on June 16. Photo by Jeff Malet.

October 3, 2021 The photo of Charlotte Weir as she prepared to dance for the sultan – on stage with the “Nomad Dancers” at the Turkish Festival in Washington D.C.

Photo by Jeff Malet.

The U.S. Capitol Dome and Capitol Christmas Tree photographed early in the evening on December 13, 2018 in Washington D.C. The 72-foot tree came from Orego’’s Willamette National Forest. Photo by Jeff Malet.

Jared Nelson as Ichabod Crane in the 2015 Washington Ballet’s sneak preview of “Sleepy Hollow” on Jan. 31 in the Kogod Courtyard of the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

Photo by Jeff Malet.

A sunflower in the McKee-Beshers Wildlife Management Area in Montgomery County, Maryland. Photo by Jeff Malet.

One of the largest rallies against gun violence took place in Washington, D.C. where an estimated 40,000 showed up on a rainy day. Only a few feet away stood a temporary memorial consisting of over 45,000 flower vases each representing a victim of gun violence in the past year.

BY KATE OCZYPOK

D.C. COUNCIL PASSES EMERGENCY BILL TO CAP RENT INCREASES

Despite high inflation numbers, the D.C. Council passed an emergency bill earlier this month to stabilize rental housing in the city by capping rent increases, starting July 1. Those who live in rent-stabilized housing won’t see more than a six percent rent increase. Such caps have reached their highest levels this year due to high inflation. Nevertheless, senior citizens will see even more protection, with the cap being eight percent over the same previous twoyear timespan.

WOMAN SUES NEIGHBOR TO STOP SMOKING WEED

Josefa Ippolito-Shepherd has won a lawsuit against a neighbor whom she claimed was smoking marijuana resulting in the pungent smell wafting into her home. Judge Ebony Scott ruled that Ippolito-Shepherd successfully argued that the smell in question was a private nuisance to her. Scott ordered her neighbor, Thomas Cackett, to stop the smoking. While Cacket is licensed to buy medical marijuana, he does “not possess a license to disrupt the full use and enjoyment of one’s land,” said Judge Scott in her decision file.

“BOB’S BURGERS,” “ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT” ACTOR ARRESTED FOR JANUARY 6 INVOLVEMENT

Actor Jay Johnston, who’s had roles in shows like “Bob’s Burgers” and “Arrested Development,” was arrested earlier this month due to his involvement in the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot. Johnston was nabbed in Los Angeles on charges that included civil disorder,

a felony. He held a stolen police shield over his head and passed it to other rioters during the attack. Over 1,000 people have been charged with crimes for participating in the deadly riot.

UBER DRIVERS TO GET DASH CAMS

With hopes to solve more crimes, D.C. leaders are giving free dash cams to people who spend a lot of time driving, like rideshare and food delivery drivers. The effort is funded through a $500,000 donation from DoorDash and will include handing out cameras later this summer at designated locations. “Advancing the safety of our entire community is incredibly important to everyone at DoorDash,” said John Horton, a spokesman for the company.

NO CHARGES FOR OFF-DUTY FBI AGENT WHO SHOT MAN IN METRO

An off-duty FBI agent who shot a man last December will not face charges. The shooting took place on the Red Line platform at Metro Center shortly after 6 p.m. on December 7, 2022. The agent intervened to stop a fight occurring on the platform, according to prosecutors. The decedent was Troy N. Bullock, age 28.

WELCOME, BABY GORILLA!

The Smithsonian National Zoo has welcomed its newest member of their family May 27. The baby female gorilla was born at The Great Ape House to her mother Calaya, 20, and father Baraka, 31. The little one is the second for both parents and joins the zoo’s group of gorillas, including Baraka and Calaya’s son Moke, a 41-year-old female named Mandara and her daughter Kibibi, age 14. As of press time, the zoo was holding a contest to name the baby with options being: Lola, Mkali or Zahra.

Downtown Renewal: CEO Gerren Price of DowntownDC BID

BY KATE OCZYPOK

Life’s been a whirlwind for Gerren Price the last few years. He joined the DowntownDC Business Improvement District (BID) as director of public space operations in 2018. Two years later, the world changed with the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, and a year after that, he was named acting President and CEO. Last summer, his leadership of the organization became official. Price is the nonprofit organization’s third leader since the BID was founded 26 years ago.

“You know, it’s been a thrilling ride, with lots of learning experiences along the way and lots of challenges, but also just a really amazing opportunity,” Price said. “Someone reminded me that August will make one year I’ve been [officially in] the role—I couldn’t believe that, because I actually felt like it had been much longer.”

Price is passionate about making downtown cleaner, safer, even friendlier, more vibrant and as economically viable as possible. He lives in the city with his wife Sheree and his young daughters Gabriella, 6, and Stella, 5. The family adores D.C. life, enjoying the area restaurants and green spaces (particularly Franklin Park). “My kids are big fans -- they say the park has the best slides in town,” Price laughed. For those familiar, Franklin Park is located near CityCenterDC.

Sometimes, the family also enjoys just hanging out with a blanket and a book in a green space, delighting in an urban core. “We’re never, ever bored,” Price added.

Price has lived in D.C. for most of his life. He recalled visiting the MCI Center (now Capital One Arena) in elementary school with his father when it opened. “I could see how excited my dad was, and I was too,” he said. “I just felt the whole vibe of the city and loved being downtown where there are people everywhere from all walks of life and belief systems. There’s just a feeling of vibrancy, excitement, and energy.”

Price wants every generation to feel the same about D.C., to be a place where people of all

ages and stages of life want to live, work, visit, play and be entertained. “I want to make sure we’re a city that’s truly embracing everybody and a place people want to come back to over and over again,” he added.

Of course, as we continue to climb out of the pandemic doldrums, what Price hopes for is often easier said than done. A Washington Post article in January about post-pandemic struggles labeled downtown D.C. “a wounded rendition of its once robust self.”

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has made the reawakening of downtown an integral part of her agenda as she continues to serve in her third term.

Earlier this summer, Bowser, along with the DowntownDC and Golden Triangle BIDs and Federal City Council, announced the launch of the “Downtown Action Plan,” which will “engage a broad set of stakeholders to envision a vibrant, equitable future for D.C.’s downtown by developing a set of recommendations that build on the goals and initiatives of Mayor Muriel Bowser’s Comeback Plan.” Information on Bowser’s Comeback Plan can be found at https://www.obviouslydc.com/ dcs-comeback-plan/home and https://www. reimaginedowntowndc.com/.

The goal of this unprecedented collaboration is to ensure downtown D.C.’s recovery and reimagine the location as a place that benefits all residents and businesses by offering jobs, various types of housing and a strong tax base. “For me, since I was young, I’ve always been conscious of place and the dynamics of place for people and what it means for their lives,” Price said. “That’s why I’ve been drawn to a lot of government and non-profits that have been focused on communities and systems that serve communities.”

The Smithsonian has welcomed a new baby gorilla into the fold. Courtesy of the Smithsonian National Zoo.

Price and his daughters hanging out downtown. Courtesy Gerren Price.

At Long Last: Groundbreaking for Four Seasons Condos

BY ROBERT DEVANEY

“It’s been 13 years,” said developer Richard Levy to a large gathering, next to the longshuttered West Heating Plant on May 10, displaying a sense of true relief but noting there was much more work to be done.

The former federal property, south of the C&O Canal and Four Seasons Hotel, will be transformed into the Four Seasons Private Residences and a public park, marking a major step forward in Washington, D.C.’s progress out of the pandemic doldrums — and producing the newest Georgetown gem.

The demolition of the vacant heating plant at 1051-55 29th St. NW is making way for a 10-story, high-end condo building with about 70 units. Some of the structure will be preserved — including the western facade entrance.

With an introduction by the Duke Ellington School of the Arts Choir, business leaders, architects and other members of the neighborhood met — in what will be a future garage, where was formerly a dry dock for canal boats — to mark the milestone.

Levy, a leading member of the project, thanked a long list of people that includes Bob Peck, Dan Tangherlini, the National Park Service, the Citizens Association of Georgetown and the Georgetown Advisory Neighborhood Commission.

Mayor Muriel Bowser and Ward 2 Council member Brooke Pinto praised the project for its benefits to the city. “It will lead to a better D.C.,” said Bowser, with Pinto affirming that Georgetown “is the place to be.”

Bowser also thanked former Mayor Anthony Williams for his leadership.

CHEVY CHASE FLOOR WAXING SERVICE

Built c. 1875. Pre-Civil War barn, creekfront, springs. Secluded. $895,000! Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Homesale Realty. Syd Machat, owneragent. (301) 305-8999.

Polishing, buffing, and waxing to preserve and protect your wood floors. Family owned and operated for 30 years. Licensed Bonded Insured (301) 656-1810, Chevy Chase, MD

“It’s a happy day,” said landscape architect Laurie Olin, whose designs will add a oneacre public park, in front of the new residences down to K Street, alongside Rock Creek.

Architect David Adjaye, whose resume includes the African American History Museum and two D.C. public libraries, spoke of “turning on the magic” in terms of the long-incubating project and quipped he had a “professional boy crush” on the avuncular Olin.

Peter Armstrong of the Georgetown Company in New York echoed the sentiments of all the speakers when he spoke simply of “gratitude.”

Besides Adjaye and Olin, those involved with the design and construction include SLCE Architects LLP, Robert Silman Associates and Cosentini Associates.

The work is expected to cost $300 million — look for a late 2025 completion.

The Levy Group Ltd. and the Georgetown Company purchased the building, completed in 1948, and its property from the General Services Administration in 2013 for $19.5 million, after winning a government auction.

Residential specialists inside and outside. Family owned and operated for over 30 years. (202) 363-2897 Chevy Chase, MD • We also offer glass, screen, and sash cord repair service • Ask about our no damage, low pressure Powerwashing.

Rendering of the Four Seasons Private Residences on 29th Street. Courtesy Adjaye Associates.

Mayor Muriel Bowser, developer Richard Levy and architect David Adjaye wield sledgehammers for the May 10 groundbreaking, eschewing the golden shovels. Photo by Shannon Finney.

H

I C

KO R Y T R E E FA R M

The Plains, Virginia • $7,950,000

304 acres | Main house, stunning guest house w/ garage, 2 tenant houses, manager’s house, apartment complex, pool, 5 barns, approx 60 stalls, 3/4 mile all weather sand track, pond & extensive paddocks, fencing & sheds | Panoramic views of Bull Run Mountains & the Blue Ridge Mountains | Original home site still surrounded by towering trees, garden & stone walls

Helen MacMahon (540) 454-1930

H U G H E S V I L L E R O A D

Leesburg, Virginia • $1,699,000 99.33 acres in prime Loudoun Hunt country location, easy access to Leesburg, Purcellville & Lincoln | Property is in conservation easement | Mountain and valley views | Rolling acreage | Approximately 65 acres of pasture, 35 acres of woods, major creek frontage | | Very protected location.

Paul MacMahon (703) 609-1905

Brian MacMahon (703) 609-1868

info@sheridanmacmahon.com www.sheridanmacmahon.com

in 2 parcels & Little River frontage | French Country stone home w/slate roof | 5 bedrooms, including 2 large suites w/balconies | Large pool w/spa & pool house, pavilion, tennis court, gazebo, barn w/ 2 apartments, equipment building/garage and 2 generators | Open fields & rolling pasture w/extensive wooded trails in Orange County Hunt territory

Helen MacMahon (540) 454-1930

C AT E S B Y V I N E YA R D

Upperville, Virginia • $1,300,000

44.55 acres of which 15 acres are producing grapes | 8.5 acres of Chambourcin, Traminette on 4.3 acres and Vidal Blanc on 2.1 acres. | Vineyard infrastructure includes fencing, irrigation system and computerized well | Perc site for 4 bedroom home. Property is in conservation easement | Property can be converted to Residential use.

Paul MacMahon (703) 609-1905

Brian MacMahon (703) 609-1868

(540) 687-5588

O U T W E S T

Warrenton, Virginia • $2,850,000

Gracious home w/ /renovated kitchen |Hardwood floors, substantial millwork & fine finishes & 4 FP| Perfectly sited to enjoy the views | 5 BR, home office, large family room, newly resurfaced tennis court, pool w/ cabana and 4 BR guest house w/workshop/3 stall stable | Large field for turn out, 1 paddock & hay field | 32 acres in 2 recorded parcels

Helen MacMahon (540) 454-1930

R E C T O R T O W N R O A D

Marshall, Virginia • $1,100,000

Lovely country home on private lot in the village of Rectortown | FIBER INTERNET | Open floor plan with main level suite and home office | Upper level overlooks large family room with two story vaulted ceiling and stone fireplace and two large bedrooms and second family room | Multiple porches and decks with extensive plantings - easy maintenance

Helen MacMahon (540) 454-1930

F U LT O N R U N Middleburg, Virginia • $2,982,250 Middleburg Hunt location | House built in 2020, frame exterior | 3 BR, 3 1/2 BA, 11 ft ceilings, moldings | Antique french doors | 50 acres are gently rolling & useable | 40 fenced acres | 4 large paddocks & 3 small holding fields | 24x48 barn/farm structure w/ tack room, 24x14 run in shed, 12x36 2-bay run in shed w/ feed room, 12x14 tack room

Paul MacMahon (703) 609-1905

Brian MacMahon (703) 609-1868

O T L E Y R O A D

Purcelleville, Virginia • $475,000

Hard to find 10 acre parcel between Purcellville and Middleburg | No HOA/covenants | Partly open, some mature woods, creek frontage, possible pond site | Potential building site is now closer to Otley Road

Paul MacMahon (703) 609-1905

Brian MacMahon (703) 609-1868

110 East Washington Street Middleburg, Virginia 20117

A MULTI-ARTS SUMMER DAY CAMP

ON THE GEORGETOWN VISITATION CAMPUS

WHERE COMMUNITY AND ART MAKE MAGIC!

FOR YOUNG PEOPLE AGES 8 — 15

SESSION 1: SESSION 2: SESSION 3:

June 26 - July 7, 2023

July 10 - July 21, 2023

July 24 - August 4, 2023

Robin Davisson: Creativity’s Child

“It was like being struck by lightning,” says Robin Davisson, visual artist and owner of StudioLab RD, about her decision to step away from a biomedical research career and pursue a life in the arts full throttle.

In 2018, Davisson found herself at a crossroads. A molecular physiologist with a master’s in psychology and doctorate in pharmacology/physiology, she was running Cornell University labs in Ithaca and New York City. Her husband, David Skorton, a cardiologist, who had been president of the University of Iowa and Cornell University, was the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. The couple met at Iowa and were living on Q Street in Georgetown.

“It was pandemonium,” recalls Davisson of their high-profile life on the East Coast with its academic and social networking and her “planes-trains-and-automobiles” commutes up to New York and back.

She was a long way from that 8-year-old in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, who found her first love by peering through a microscope, beginning her life in STEM.

Still, Davisson has always been happy in her creativity, learning to sew and knit and spin wool to make yarn from an early age. “The creative life in Iowa City was incredibly satisfying,” she says. For her, scientists and artists can tell their story together of how they come to create. “My process is simultaneously the same as laboratory science and completely different,” she now writes as an artist. “Both in science and art, if you follow the data, it leads to the truth.”

Her sabbatical in October 2018 led to the Penland School of Craft in North Carolina. “It changed my life. It was like falling in love,” Davisson says. “I thought to myself, ‘Am I really going to leave a 25-year career?’ ”

So, this longtime scientist and mentor of postgraduates shifted her skills onto a new path of personal renaissance and opened StudioLab RD at 1037 33rd St. NW, next to the C&O Canal and Cady’s Alley. Davisson calls it “a casual, comfortable space committed to connection and creativity.”

The place is more than that, of course. Davisson’s abstract expressionist art hangs throughout the two-story former townhouse, whether it’s “Laugh Lines,” “Pisces Moon” or “Hot Gossip.”

Davisson wants Georgetowners and others to stop by her open art studio where you can watch her work and talk about the work. Her freestyle art parties (with a maximum of 10) are set up to “release your inner artist.” Her goal? “I invite you to embark on your own inspired journey of discovery.”

She has also launched a salon series, which is part of her efforts to connect the dots between sometimes disparate realms, such as art and science or art and design.

This professor emerita remains committed to … make that … STEAM — with a big “A” for the arts. And with her smarts and easy-going Midwest sensibilities, we’ve found ourselves a great arts teacher.

“I love being part of this vibrant Georgetown community,” says Davisson, who is all about connecting. All are welcome at Studio Lab RD.

New Phillips Collection Head Is June 22 Breakfast Speaker

BY RICHARD SELDEN

Dr. Jonathan P. Binstock, Vradenburg Director and CEO of the Phillips Collection, will be the next speaker in The Georgetowner’s monthly Culture Power Breakfast series. Courtesy Phillips Collection.

Dr. Jonathan P. Binstock, who became Vradenburg Director and CEO of the Phillips Collection on March 1, succeeding Dr. Dorothy Kosinski, will be the next speaker in The Georgetowner’s monthly Culture Power Breakfast series. Admission to the event, on Thursday, June 22, at the Four Seasons Hotel, 2800 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, is $40, payable in advance at georgetowner.com or

via Eventbrite.

Most recently director of the University of Rochester’s Memorial Art Gallery, Dr. Binstock earned his Ph.D. at the University of Michigan, writing his dissertation on pioneering D.C.-based painter and sculptor Sam Gilliam (1933–2022). In 2005, as curator of contemporary art at the Corcoran Gallery of Art, he organized the first full-career retrospective of Gilliam’s work. In between his Corcoran and Rochester positions, he held a senior position in the Art Advisory & Finance group of Citi Private Bank.

At the June 22 breakfast, Dr. Binstock will

WHAT’S ONLINE IN THE ARTS

HELEN HAYES AWARDS DRAWS LARGE CROWDS

BY CHRISTOPHER JONES

Gaby Albo and ensemble in GALA Hispanic Theatre’s On Your Feet! La historia de Emilio y Gloria Estefan ¡En español!, winner of 9 awards at the 2023 Helen Hayes Awards. Photo by Stan Weinstein.

A GHOSTLY ROMP: GALA HISPANIC THEATRE PRESENTS ‘LA

VALENTÍA (VALOR)’

BY CELIA SHARPE

SUMMER ARTS PREVIEW

BY KATE OCZYPOK

ON

THE CUTTING EDGE: WOOLLY

MAMMOTH’S MARIA GOYANES

BY RICHARD SELDEN

Maria Goyanes, artistic director of Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, at The Georgetowner’s May 18 Culture Power Breakfast. Georgetowner photo.

POSTCLASSICAL ENSEMBLE FILLS STAGE WITH FALLA

BY RICHARD SELDEN

talk about his plans for the Phillips Collection, America’s first museum of modern art, which opened to the public in 1921 in the Dupont Circle home of Duncan and Marjorie Phillips. Launched by The Georgetowner in 2014, the series has presented 50 insider talks by

leaders of area museums, theater and dance companies, performing arts venues and other arts organizations. The current sponsors are Long & Foster, Balfour and Doyle.

For ticket information go to Georgetowner.com.

Sandra Gumuzzio and Luz Nicolás as sisters Guada and Trini in ‘La valentía (Valor).’ Photo by Stan Weinstein via Twitter.

Jazz artist Melvis Santa performed at the Charles Fishman Embassy Series at the Cuban Embassy on April 21. The DC Jazz Festival announced a collaboration with Cuba after the show. Courtesy DC Jazz Festival.

Left to right: David Straithairn, Sonia Olla, Ismael Fernández and Robin de Jesús in “Entwined: Love’s Magicians.” Photo by Daniel Schwartz. Courtesy PostClassical Ensemble.

Dr. Jonathan P. Binstock, Vradenburg Director and CEO of the Phillips Collection, will be the next speaker in The Georgetowner’s monthly Culture Power Breakfast series. Courtesy Phillips Collection.

‘King: A Life’

SEPARATING THE MAN FROM THE MYTH.

REVIEWED BY KITTY KELLEY

They said one to another Behold here cometh the Dreamer Let us slay him And we shall see what will become of his dreams.

– Genesis 37:19-20

These words are carved into the cement plaque that rests outside room 306 of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. They mark the place where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on April 4, 1968. The dreamer’s death transformed his murder site into a shrine that now houses the National Civil Rights Museum, where King’s life continues to inspire, drawing thousands of visitors every year.

Scholars and historians have long explored the legacy of the Baptist minister from Georgia who preached a gospel of nonviolence. Deservedly, many King biographies have won prestigious prizes, among them Taylor Branch’s magisterial trilogy: “Parting the Waters,” “Pillar of Fire” and “At Canaan’s Edge.”Additional tributes to King include “I

May Not Get There with You” by Michael Eric Dyson; “Bearing the Cross” by David J. Garrow; “Let the Trumpet Sound” by Stephen B. Oates; “Death of a King” by Tavis Smiley; “The Promise and the Dream” by David Margolick; and “The Sword and the Shield” by Peniel E. Joseph.

Now comes Jonathan Eig with “King: A Life,” which promises “to recover the real man from the gray mist of hagiography.”

Regrettably, says the author, “In the process of canonizing King, we’ve defanged him… [but] King was a man, not a saint, not a symbol.” In removing the mantle, Eig presents here an orator of soaring rhetoric who unapologetically plagiarized his speeches, saying his goal was to move audiences. Even King’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech seems to have had its origins in Langston Hughes’ poems “I Dream a World” and “Dream Deferred.”

Misappropriating others’ work is a grievous sin for scholars, a “bad habit,” Eig writes, that King started in high school and continued as a graduate student at Crozier and later at Boston University, where he earned his Ph.D. with a dissertation that contained more than

50 sentences lifted from someone else’s work. By contrast, readers will note how generous Eig is to his own sources, giving previous biographers their due and quoting many by name in his text, not simply relegating them to chapter notes in the back of the book. Just as noteworthy is Eig’s appreciation for all who contributed to “King: A Life”; he lists each name under “Acknowledgements: Beloved Community.”

In this biography, his sixth book, Eig writes like an Olympic diver who jackknifes off the high board, slicing the water without a ripple. He performs with sheer artistry, like Picasso paints and Astaire dances. In unspooling the life of King, Eig presents a complicated man who attempted suicide twice; who was plagued by clinical depression so deep it required hospitalization; who chewed his nails; and who gave up the “true love” of his life, a white woman named Betty Moitz, because he realized, with her, he would never be accepted as a preacher in Black churches. The late Harry Belafonte, who himself married a white woman, told Eig that King never stopped talking about Moitz, and King’s mentor in graduate school described him after the breakup as “a man with a broken heart,” adding, “he never recovered.”

Although he married Coretta Scott and had four children with her, King pursued many women throughout his life. While Eig is unsparing about those extramarital affairs, he writes gently: “King’s busy schedule of travel also afforded him opportunities to spend time with women other than Coretta.”

The author also draws interesting similarities between King and John F. Kennedy, both of whom indelibly marked their era:

• Both were influenced by powerful (and philandering) fathers.

• Both enjoyed a privileged lifestyle above their contemporaries.

• Both were accused of plagiarism.

• Both experienced discrimination (JFK as an Irish Catholic; King as a Black man).

• Both excelled as public speakers.

• Both were assassinated.

King was particularly threatened by the never-made-public tape recordings FBI director J. Edgar Hoover ordered, turning federal agents into bloodhounds and instructing them to install bugs wherever King traveled. Hoover distributed copies of the recordings, which contained evidence of “unnatural sexual acts,” to President Lyndon Johnson, White House officials, and journalists in order to undermine King’s credibility. To further ensure his ruin, Hoover met with a group of woman journalists and declared King the country’s “most notorious liar.”

King reportedly wept over the slur to his life’s work but managed a masterful response to the press:

“I cannot conceive of Mr. Hoover making a statement like this without being under extreme pressure. He has apparently faltered under the awesome burden, complexities and responsibilities of his office. Therefore, I cannot engage in a public debate with him. I have nothing but sympathy for this man who has served his country well.”

By opposing the “immoral” war in Vietnam, King, who’d received the 1964 Nobel Peace Prize, drew the unremitting ire of Johnson. As Eig writes, King’s “conscience would not allow him to cooperate with an advocate and purveyor of war.” Infuriated, Johnson never forgave the man who’d given his presidency its three greatest legislative achievements: the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and the Fair Housing Act of 1968.

While Eig reveals the flawed man behind the myth, Martin Luther King Jr. still stands tall and strong enough to shoulder Shakespeare’s words from “Measure for Measure”:

They say best men are molded out of faults, And, for the most, become much more the better For being a little bad

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.” She serves on the board of BIO (Biographers International Organization) and Washington Independent Review of Books, where this review originally appeared.

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