The Georgetowner: November 13, 2024 Issue

A Starr Is Born

Osteria Mozza’s Stephen Starr and Nancy Silverton.

The Fitzgerald of Palisades is currently under construction and is not licensed by the D.C. Department of Health. Upon completion of construction, The Fitzgerald of Palisades will apply to the D.C. Department of Health for a license to operate as an Assisted Living Residence. The anticipated opening for The Fitzgerald of Palisades is Late 2024.

This yuletide season, give the gift of 85 miles of beaches, 11 waterfront communities, and unforgettable memories. Plan your holiday getaway at CrystalCoastNC.org.

NEWS · 6 - 9

Future of Streateries

Crime Report: The Cuddler

ANC Report

EDITORIAL & OPINION · 10

Is Unity Possible?

Making Your Family “Blue Zone”

THE VILLAGE · 11

Book Review: “War”

Community Calendar

COVER · 12 - 13

Osteria Mozza Opens

BUSINESS · 14 - 15

Ins and Outs

REAL ESTATE · 16 - 17

Sales

Auction Block

IN COUNTRY · 18

Hotel Petersburg Reopens

ARTS · 19 - 23

Georgetown Rangila

Holiday Theater Guide

Family-Friendly Options

Impressionists at the National Gallery

Lynch and Flannery at Strathmore

GIFT GUIDE · 24 - 25

FOOD & WINE · 26

The Latest Dish

SOCIAL SCENE · 27 - 28

CAG Party

Balls and Galas Fall Parties

KITTY KELLEY BOOK CLUB · 30

“John Lewis: A Life”

ON THE COVER

Restaurateur Stephen Starr with Michelin star chef Nancy Silverton in Georgetown’s newest hotspot, Osteria Mozza at 3276 M St. NW.

Who is a Stakeholder?

Fax: (202) 338-4834 www.georgetowner.com

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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 2024.

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Photo by Greg “Fritz” Blakey of Fritz PhotoGraphics.

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MY EXPERIENCE AS A FIRST-TIME VOTER BY

LUCY CULLEN

Lucy Cullen on Healy Lawn at Georgetown University.

ETHEL KENNEDY: PILLAR OF STRENGTH AND HONOR BY

CHRISTINE WARNKE

President Joe Biden at an Oct. 16 memorial service for Ethel Kennedy at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle. Courtesy Kerry Kennedy.

JOHN LEGEND TALKS ACTIVISM, REFORM BY

LUCY CULLEN

Executive Director of GU Politics Mo Elleithee and John Legend. Courtesy Georgetown University.

GARDEN CLUB CELEBRATES 100TH BIRTHDAY BY PEGGY SANDS

Flash Flower Giveaway at Book Hill. Photo by Lee Child.

CAG BLOCK CAPTAINS HONORED BY ROBERT DEVANEY

CAG President Paul K. Williams, CAG Block Captain of the Year Award winner Helen Darling, Vice President Amy A. Titus, Public Safety Co-Chair Mark Martinkov and Block Captain Chair Ashok Gowda. Courtesy CAG.

OYSTER LOVERS EAT UP AT SHUCK IT! BY PEGGY SANDS

Shuck It! Oyster & Beer Festival at Tony and Joe’s. Georgetowner photo.

The Future of Georgetown’s Streateries

NEW PROPOSALS REFUEL NEIGHBORHOOD DEBATE OVER SIDEWALK EXTENSIONS

BY PAULINA INGLIMA

Five years ago, walking down Georgetown’s brick sidewalks, one might find oneself fighting to squeeze by fellow foot soldiers. Today, however, the neighborhood’s 11.8 million annual visitors may find a clearer path, thanks to the expanded sidewalks

accommodating “streatery” structures for outdoor dining.

At an Oct 30 meeting, Faith Broderick, the Georgetown Business Improvement District’s economic development director, heralded the impact of streateries on the neighborhood’s

vitality, citing a Washingtonian article headlined, “Is Georgetown Now Actually … Cool?” “The sidewalk extensions brought new life to the streets that otherwise was not there,” she said.

Georgetown’s streateries — on plastic panels that extend the sidewalk into the street — have been a center of debate since they were first installed in response to the pandemic. The District Department of Transportation piloted the citywide Temporary Streateries Program in June of 2020, allowing business owners to apply for a permit to install a streatery outside their establishments. Each business is responsible for its streatery’s upkeep.

However, the BID controls a separate permitting process for Georgetown’s streateries and widened sidewalks, requiring interested businesses to apply through the BID and pay a fee for installation and upkeep.

Located along M Street and Wisconsin Avenue, the barrier-bordered streatery areas have been criticized as poorly maintained safety hazards lacking aesthetic appeal.

Elizabeth Miller, president of the Georgetown Coalition for Public Spaces, raised concerns about financial transparency, since the BID has not released any information to the public about how streatery fees are managed. “We don’t know how the money is being collected, we don’t know how it’s being spent, we just don’t know,” she said.

And Georgetown faces an additional hurdle in streatery installation: the Old Georgetown Board, which is responsible for maintaining the neighborhood’s historic character and makes the final call on streatery designs.

Miller said the coalition’s concerns include the safety of bikers as they navigate around the streateries, the reduction in parking and the lack of visual appeal, focusing on the Jersey barriers that prevent cars from crashing into pedestrians on the extended sidewalks.

“Jersey barriers have this sort of temporary feeling,” Miller said. “They’re heavy. They feel a little bit like you’ve entered a war zone or something,”

DDOT, which plans to turn the pilot into a full-time program, released a proposal for citywide guidelines on Oct 30. The comment period is open until Dec 6, concluding with a Public Spaces Committee Meeting open to the public.

At the Nov. 4 Georgetown-Burleith Advisory Neighborhood Commission meeting, commissioners shared frustration with the comment submission process, which uses an email address that is not on DDOT’s website. “It seems like they’ve already made up their policies,” said Commissioner Daniel Chao. Commissioners also commented on issues of maintenance, whether roof coverings should be required and if the streateries would be better managed under private permits rather than the BID’s permits.

Commissioner Joe Massaua said that, despite the problems, the streateries have overwhelmingly benefited the city and increased the amount of time visitors stay in the neighborhood. “With the streateries and extended sidewalks and bus lanes, it just makes Georgetown have a strategic plan for pedestrian visitors in the future,” he said.

The Georgetown Coalition for Public Spaces sent a letter, signed by 25 business owners, to the BID and DDOT on Oct 31, highlighting its requests to DDOT.

“If we want this to continue in Georgetown, and I think we do, then we need to do it right with historically appropriate materials and without years and years of Jersey barriers,” said Miller. “And while the long-term plan is being designed and funded, we suggest a compromise of removing all the plastic platforms that are not directly in front of operating restaurants.”

“We had such success during the pandemic with our temporary sidewalk extensions. They created that vibe in Georgetown,” Broderick said at the Oct 30 meeting. “But now we have an opportunity to sort of keep what’s there and build on it and create a public realm that is incredible, that is exquisite and that sort of highlights M Street and Wisconsin Avenue as two of the best retail corridors in the entire city.”

Kitchen 1310 streatery around 2021. Courtesy Georgetown BID.

Recent streatery in front of Taichi Bubble Tea, Maman and Compass Coffee. Courtesy Georgetown Coalition for Public Spaces.

DNA Testing Helped Catch ‘The Cuddler’

BY CHRISTINE AXSMITH

“It happened again.” My friend’s voice woke me up quickly. We lived in Glover Park and there had been another sexual assault the night before by “The Cuddler,” a name given to a serial rapist who targeted female residents of Glover Park and Georgetown in the early 2000s. The neighborhoods were the center of a series of sexual assaults that seemed unstoppable. It was before advances in DNA technology or the availability of commercial databases of genetic information, which would later lead to an arrest.

Council member Brooke Pinto has similar memories of that time. “I remember visiting my sister and brother in Georgetown during a string of attacks from ‘The Georgetown Cuddler’ and receiving the warnings to make sure all the windows and doors were locked,” she told The Georgetowner. “My hope is that this arrest brings some comfort to the victims and neighbors who were traumatized and sends a clear message that law enforcement doesn’t give up on solving cases.”

In September of 2024, those assaults were tied to a single serial predator. On Oct. 2, Ernesto Ramon Mercado, 54, of Arlington, Virginia, was arrested and charged with three counts of first-degree sexual abuse with aggravating circumstances and five counts of second-degree sexual abuse with aggravating circumstances. The suspect was identified and arrested, using DNA evidence, as part of the Cold Case Sexual Assault Initiative, a joint effort by the Metropolitan Police Department Sexual Assault Cold Case Unit, the U.S. Marshals Service and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

From June 26, 2008, to Aug. 31, 2012, women in Georgetown, Glover Park and College Park, Maryland, were sexually assaulted in their

homes. “The suspect targeted young women in off-campus shared residences and the attacks occurred in the late night, pre-dawn hours,” said MPD Chief Pamela A. Smith.

Mercado is alleged to have followed young women home from bars. According to the arrest affidavit, he allegedly broke windows or removed window air conditioners to enter homes. The women were assaulted while they were sleeping and awoke to being attacked.

“In each case Mercado allegedly identified his victims through stalking and ‘Peeping Tom’-type activities. Sleeping and intoxicated victims were targeted and attacked in their homes with the intent of raping them,” Det. Alex Mac Bean explained.

Smith said: “Throughout the years our Cold Case detectives retested certain items of evidence and followed up with victims in person. Because of their hard work, and a lead from forensic genetic genealogy and other investigative methods, our detectives were able to develop a suspect.”

Pinto explained that the Secure DC law allows for DNA collection for violent offenses only after judicial review. “DNA testing played an important role in ‘The Georgetown Cuddler’ arrest,” she said. “This provision intends to help solve cases of serial sexual violence.”

The investigating police believe there may be more sex crimes tied to Mercado.

“Based on assailant lookouts, modus operandi, geographic crime scene locations, victimology and patterned behavior, the perpetrator whose DNA is linked to these offenses is also suspected of committing dozens of additional ‘Peeping Tom’ voyeurism, burglary and home-invasion sexual assault offenses in both Georgetown and College Park between at least 2006 and 2012,” wrote Mac Bean in the arrest affidavit. A 2011 Baltimore CBS news investigation mentioned five similar attacks in the College Park area which may or may not be connected to Mercado.

Mercado attended the University of Maryland, College Park, from 1992 to 1995, when he graduated. His familiarity with campus “gave him an intimate knowledge of the College Park, Maryland, area” according to the arrest affidavit, “where investigators believe these crimes possibly began.” Mercado was stopped 19 times in the late night or early morning hours in both D.C. and College Park over a several-year period.

From Sept. 3 to Oct. 3, 2010, MPD assigned officers to patrol in the area of 3800 S St. NW, the site of one of the assaults. The goal was to observe men in the area late at night. One of the men stopped at 3 a.m. was Mercado. The officer noted that Mercado “could give no legitimate reason as to why he was in the area,” according to the officer’s report.

On Oct. 2, Ernesto Ramon Mercado, 54, of Arlington, Virginia, was arrested. Courtesy MPD.

ANC Topics: Dockless Vehicles, Sidewalk Repairs, Streateries, CYM

BY PAULINA INGLIMA

At its Nov. 4 meeting, ANC 2E, the Georgetown-Burleith-Hillandale Advisory Neighborhood Commission, discussed dockless vehicles, sidewalk repairs, streateries and the Call Your Mother deli at 3428 O St. NW.

DOCKLESS VEHICLES

Commissioners expressed concern about dockless vehicles — electric scooters and bikes — being left on sidewalks, blocking doorways and becoming obstacles to pedestrians, particularly those using wheelchairs. Georgetown has the second largest number of dockless vehicles in the District.

Although people can log a 311 complaint when they see a dockless vehicle, the process should be made easier and more transparent, said Commissioner Daniel Chao, who commented: “When this happens, I think: Why does it have to be so difficult?”

Commissioner Topher Mathews suggested creating street parking for dockless vehicles. “I’m not interested in just punishing or getting rid of the program entirely,” he said. “But I’m very interested in solutions that stop

the problem.”

The ANC’s resolution, which passed unanimously, calls for providers to ensure that riders park in designated areas by placing visible notices on vehicles to inform riders of expectations and fining those that park illegally. Also requested: a community relations contact for each provider.

SIDEWALK REPAIRS

The ANC also passed a resolution on sidewalk brick conditions. Chair Gwen Lohse referenced two constituents who have been hospitalized after tripping on loose bricks.

The Georgetown Business Improvement District repairs bricks within two weeks of receiving a report, but does not currently repair bricks outside its designated areas, forcing isolated sidewalk repairs to be done by an outside contractor.

“You can see where they’ve repaired bricks on mixed-use streets, but then less than 20 feet away the city is not getting the bricks repaired,” Lohse said. The resolution calls for the BID to become a DDOT contractor for all repairs.

is deferring to the ANC and the BZA. They’re certainly happy to do the standing table thing,” said CYM’s legal representative, Martin

But in order to have public outdoor seating, CYM would need to go through a laborious Commissioner Paul Maysak said that community members have made it clear they do not want outdoor seating at the deli. “The gist is, I don’t think a lot of people

The next meeting of ANC 2E will be held on

STREATERIES

The ANC also discussed DDOT’s streatery guidelines, which can be commented on until Dec 2. [See separate Town Topics story.]

“I’m really hoping we either have restaurants independently create their own streateries and make them beautiful or, if the BID, with this much larger swath of space, decides it has an alternative and can pay for an alternative. But if not, I would want individual restaurants to apply, versus having a massive public space permit.”

Streatery roof coverings were also discussed.

“We have a beautiful historic streetscape, and to see covered streateries where you can’t see the beautiful architecture in the building would be a shame,” Lohse said.

CALL YOUR MOTHER

The Board of Zoning Adjustment ordered ANC 2E to gather public comment on solutions for Call Your Mother’s outdoor seating and trash issues. The commissioners, who expressed frustration at being given only two days, in their resolution largely punted the issue back to BZA, stating that the ANC will review CYM’s application when it is submitted to BZA’s Public Space Committee.

It was noted that the CYM building has a new owner, who wants the business to continue. Lohse said that, though the original order states the deli may not have outdoor seating, the BZA has now asked CYM to consider adding an outside-only movable standing bar to give customers space to eat. “Our position

Obituaries Georgetown Glow 2024 Canceled

Per a notice from the Georgetown BID, in what would have been its 10th year, Glow is on pause for 2024 as the event explores new partnerships and funding sources, both for Glow and other events in Georgetown. Instead, Georgetown Jingle, a holiday music event in Georgetown, will take place December 7. For additional details, visit https://www.georgetowndc.com/event/ georgetown-jingle.

Georgetown resident Stephanie Flanagan passed away peacefully at the age of 66 on Oct. 18. Stephanie and her husband Larry were generous supporters of the Citizens Association of Georgetown, where Larry recently served as CAG vice president and treasurer. CAG Executive Director Brittany Sawyer called Stephanie’s death “a deep loss for the community.”

STEPHANIE FLANAGAN

Former

Stephanie Flanagan. Courtesy Legacy.com.

Call Your Mother bagelry at 35th & O Streets NW. Georgetowner photo.

OBITUARIES

‘SOCIAL SCENE’ WRITER MARY BIRD

Longtime Washingtonian and exemplar of style Mary Bird died on Oct. 23 at the age of 81 due to esophageal cancer. She spent her last days at her home on Cathedral Avenue and had the opportunity to say goodbye to close friends from her bed.

She told her visitors she was at peace and “tying up loose ends.” Having fought cancer for more than a year, she joined in a toast to her life — which included her Georgetowner publisher and editor. “Wine hasn’t tasted good for six months,” she quipped, adding, “I’m very grateful for my life and my friends.”

Mary Mendle Bird was born on Dec. 10, 1942, in St. Louis. After graduating from Miss Porter’s School and Sarah Lawrence College, she began her career in Washington, D.C. Following 30 years at the State Department, she retired as the chief of the Translating Division, then joined The Georgetowner, covering social events.

Mary is preceded in death by her loving husband, Collins Bird, a co-founder of the Georgetown Inn, and her parents, Roberta Pierce and Milton Mendle of St. Louis. Just weeks ago, Mary attended her last social event: the opening lunch of the Capital Speakers

Our Q Street neighbor Jim Hoagland died Nov. 4 at the age of 84 due to a stoke. The Washington Post journalist was profiled in The Georgetowner by Sam Sallick in July 2023 — “Neighbors & Legends: Jim Hoagland.” Hired by the Post in 1966 and known for his writing on world affairs, Hoagland won two Pulitzer Prizes and penned his last column in 2020. Visit georgetowner.com/articles/2023/07/12/ neighbors-legends-jim-hoagland.

Club, where she was honored.

Mary’s dear friend Jameson Freeman, vice president of the Arts Club of Washington, wrote: “October is a month of transitions, and this particular one will be felt by all who knew and loved the great lady, and iconic Washingtonian, Mary Bird, who left her physical body today. … She loved dance and art and travel and social gatherings and animals. She will be remembered for her grace and wit, being a marvelous hostess, her diplomatic service and as a special friend.”

“Mary was wonderful to me and The Georgetowner,” said Georgetowner Publisher Sonya Bernhardt. “She and I met shortly after her retirement, and she quickly became our society editor. She was devoted to covering the events in Washington for 24 years.

“We would always celebrate her and Gary Tischler’s birthday in December, right after the last issue of the year. It signaled to us the kickoff of the holidays. Last Thursday, Robert and I were lucky enough to raise a glass and toast her. We all reminisced with Mary and a few of her dear friends. Here’s to a social butterfly in heaven.”

Ronald Edward Haley peacefully entered eternal rest on Oct. 23. Ron was energized by hard work and an entrepreneurial mindset, which led him to start R&H Hauling and Distribution Services. He worked in partnership with his brothers Eric and Hillary and brother-in-law Richard, delivering papers, including The Georgetowner newspaper. Ron was proud of his two children, Ron and Angelique, and the strong foundation they are providing for their families.

Mary Bird. Photo by Neshan Naltchayan.

RONALD ‘RON’ HALEY

Ron Haley. Courtesy Zebra Press.

JIM HOAGLAND

Columnist and journalist Jim Hoagland.

Is Unity Possible? Keep the Faith!

“Campaigns are contests of competing visions,” said President Joe Biden last week. “The country chooses one or the other. We accept the choice the country made. I’ve said many times you can’t love your country only when you win. You can’t love your neighbor only when you agree.

“Something I hope we can do no matter who you voted for is see each other not as adversaries but as fellow Americans.

Bring down the temperature.”

The Nov. 5 general election hit Democrats hard, showing that we’ve gone beyond being a 50-50 country. “Sometimes the fight takes a while,” said Vice President Kamala Harris in her concession speech. “Don’t ever give up. Don’t ever stop trying to make the world a better place.”

and locally. But here in deep-blue D.C., not so much. Our local election went as planned. Nevertheless, besides worrying about Trump’s promises, Washingtonians have to live with the guy — and need to understand his supporters, who said yes to policies many progressives don’t get.

“You can’t love your neighbor only when you agree” — President Joe Biden

More than that, the losers have to stand with the winners for the sake of America. Williamson asked for “contrition and humility.” We don’t have to agree but should be able to talk with one another.

Is civility possible? Is unity possible? The good news: clearly, democracy is not dead.

Making Your Own Family ‘Blue Zone’

Of course, most folks — as different as Marianne Williamson and Bill Maher — are telling Democrats to “take a look in the mirror.” A political party took a shellacking, nationally

Notice of Apology

Our October Cocktail of the Month, a regular column written by Jody Kurash for more than 10 years, used the name of a drink — a favorite of Princess Catherine — that is culturally offensive. Our use of this insensitive phrase, “crack baby,” was brought to our attention by Ramona Greene. Our writer told us: “It was never my intent to offend anyone by the article. I did not create the name of the cocktail. The drink has been written about in several British publications which I referenced.

“If I had thought the article would upset readers, I would not have submitted it. I did not

“The American experiment endures, and we’re going to be okay, but we need to stay engaged,” said Biden. “We need to keep going. And above all, we need to keep the faith.”

consider any racial bias in the article. From my research, the name comes from the fact that the flavor of the drink is highly addictive.

“Princess Catherine served the drink at her wedding. So, I thought it would have been appropriate. Please extend my deepest apologies to anyone I offended.”

Greene and others have accepted The Georgetowner’s apology. Let’s raise a glass to greater understanding.

— Robert Devaney, Editor-in-Chief, The Georgetowner

Letters to the Editor

To the Editor:

Congratulations to The Georgetowner on its 70th anniversary. I really enjoyed your Oct. 9 special issue. The cover and the story about your cover subjects were fascinating, and that timeline was fun to read. One nitpick I do have with you is that you wrote the Washington Senators left in 1960, and baseball returned in 2005 with the Nationals. Not quite: there was an expansion team — Washington Senators (1961–1971) — that became the Texas Rangers. Cheers to The Georgetowner, and Go Nats!

— Michael Dignan, Glover Park

If you watched the Netflix documentary “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones,” you were no doubt amazed to learn from author Dan Buettner about five unique communities — including Okinawa and Sardinia — whose members experience exceptional longevity.

Given our constant state of stress, and America’s “go-go” mentality, the holiday season is a good time to examine some of Buettner’s “secrets,” in particular the positives of intergenerational relationships and multigenerational living — prevalent in Europe and elsewhere for centuries.

Consider the rising costs of home ownership, child care, groceries and so on. New parents may find it beneficial not only to interact more but to live with their own parents. Doing so could help reduce, or even eliminate, the daunting challenges of paying for child care and a mortgage.

It is not unknown for households to have three generations under one roof. Elderly

persons are highly susceptible to loneliness and social isolation. Due to their solitude, they are more at risk for health problems like heart disease, depression and cognitive decline. If they moved in with their children or grandchildren, might they too live to 100 and beyond, like the residents of Buettner’s “Blue Zones”?

Even if you’re not sold on the idea of multiple generations under the same roof, this Thanksgiving, look around your table. Listen and learn from the stories your grandparents share. Laugh at the terrible dad jokes your uncle tells. Appreciate the youthful optimism of your young cousins.

Multigenerational families play a key role in fostering a sense of community. Everyone is a piece of the puzzle that makes your family (of whatever type) unique and interesting. And who knows: maybe, together, you’ll all live to become centenarians.

Happy Thanksgiving, Georgetown!

Dear Georgetowner,

I picked up a copy of your fine paper today at the Harris Teeter in the Foxchase Shopping Center on Duke Street in my hometown of historic Alexandria, Va.

What a wonderful 70th anniversary issue! I especially enjoyed the select timeline of the last 70 years. I also enjoyed the picture of my Congressman, Don Beyer (D-Va.) of Beyer auto dealership fame at the Wolf Trap Ball. Beyer is a nice guy, but he is also a “limousine liberal.” He went to Gonzaga High and Williams College.

In sports news, the Georgetown Hoyas football team is a surprising 4-2.

As for the upcoming presidential election, life will go on regardless of who wins. I just hope we don’t have any more riots in D.C.

Sincerely, Greg Paspatis

Multigenerational families play a key role in Blue Zones.

Book Review: ‘War’ by Bob Woodward

REVIEWED BY SIMON HENDERSON

If newspapers are the first draft of history, the books of Washington Post Associate Editor Bob Woodward can claim to be the second draft. The quotes from major players are what newspaper reporters on a breaking story can only dream of. “War,” Woodward’s new book on the inner workings of the Biden White House, is a worthy second draft, although his story should perhaps have been titled: “Wars.”

When he started writing, the Ukraine war was the dominant issue, but the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel has grabbed more headlines since. And, for continuity and no doubt commercial timeliness, Woodward now includes the Harris/Trump presidential contest as another zone of combat.

The Woodward style is well known and arguably unique. As he himself explains: “All interviews for this book were conducted under the journalist ground rule of ‘deep background.’ This means that all the information could be used but I would not say who provided it.”

The reader is left to ponder why the sources said what they told Woodward. Also, why did Woodward believe what he was being told? After all, it is another journalist ground rule not to allow yourself to be manipulated by your sources.

Woodward’s prejudices are clear. Trump “is not only the wrong man for the presidency, he is unfit to run the country.” For Putin, he quotes a CIA profile: “defined by his extreme insecurity and imperial ambition.”

The book is 370 pages, plus sources notes and index, divided into no less than 77 chapters, a few as short as less than a page. The index didn’t help me find the interesting bits. I developed league tables to entice potential readers.

Most loquacious sources: Despite their supposed anonymity, much of the book appears to be the memories of Secretary of State Tony Blinken, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, CIA Director Bill Burns, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and the NSC’s Middle East Coordinator Brett McGurk.

Most bad language: Biden is the clear winner of this doubtful prize. “‘Bibi, what the f**k?’ Biden yelled into the phone at Netanyahu” is a good example. Nevertheless, one wonders why a “friend” of the president would tell Woodward that Biden had told him: “I have spent five hours going back and forth, back and forth on the phone with two of the biggest f**king assholes in the world, Bibi Netanyahu and [Palestinian leader] Mahmoud Abbas.” The book spells out the F-words.

Most surprising omission: There is no mention of Austin’s ill health last winter, when he had surgery followed soon after by

days in intensive care. It later emerged that the White House had been kept in the dark. Austin is described by Sullivan as the “star pick” of the Biden Administration.

Most revealing of Biden’s declining health: The June 2024 presidential debate with Trump caused Biden to withdraw his candidacy, but for how long had his mental health been so questionable? Woodward recounts details of three different fundraisers in June of 2023, when participants later told him the president was “like your 87-year-old senile grandfather.”

In May of 2024, at a Silicon Valley fundraiser for about 30 people, guests thought it “weird” that Biden used a teleprompter.

Most likely to rebound badly on the apparent source: Blinken was in Saudi Arabia as part of a Middle East trip immediately after the Oct. 7 attacks on Israel with the hope of seeing Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He was told to be ready for a meeting either later that night or early the next morning. MBS, as he is known, kept them waiting until 7 a.m. Blinken’s comment: “MBS was nothing more than a spoiled child.”

Most curious anecdote: Blinken visited Jordan and had dinner with King Abdullah “in the King’s ‘man cave’ — a handsome room in his home with a bar set-up, but no alcohol.”

Most intriguing line: Sen. Lindsey Graham and Netanyahu “had scheduled a quiet negotiation between Netanyahu and a Saudi ambassador in Tel Aviv in November 2023 [the month after the Hamas attack on Israel]. It would be a historic moment.”

Woodward’s overall judgment: “I believe President Biden and his team will be largely studied in history as an example of steady and purposeful leadership.” Biggest failure? “Despite more than 50 planning meetings, the Biden administration’s [2021] withdrawal from Afghanistan spiraled into devastating chaos. They had failed to anticipate contingencies and plan for worst-case scenarios. When plan, it was too late.”

On Kamala Harris: “The Harris approach was diplomatic in private and forceful in public.”

Simon Henderson, a former journalist with the BBC and Financial Times, is the Baker senior fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, where he directs the Bernstein program on Gulf and Energy Policy. He lives in Georgetown.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WINTER SAFETY PREPAREDNESS WITH DCHSEMA AND CAG PUBLIC SAFETY

Thursday, Nov. 14

A free safety preparedness seminar, presented by the District’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency and the Citizens Association of Georgetown, will take place at Lululemon Georgetown, 3077 M St. NW, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. The seminar is open to the public and registration is not required.

CULTURAL LEADERSHIP BREAKFAST WITH CHOREOGRAPHER DIANA MOVIUS

Thursday, Nov. 21

Diana Movius, choreographer-in-residence at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery, will be the featured speaker at The Georgetowner’s November Cultural Leadership Breakfast. Doors open at the President Woodrow Wilson House, 2340 S St. NW, at 8:30 a.m. for continental breakfast, with the program following from 9 to 10 a.m. Tickets are $40 via Eventbrite.

ANC 2E MEETING

Monday, Dec. 2

Advisory Neighborhood Commission 2E, representing Georgetown, Burleith and Hillandale, will hold its December meeting at 6:30 p.m. at Georgetown Visitation School, 1524 35th St. NW, and via Zoom. The agenda will be available seven days prior. Visit anc.dc.gov.

BOOK HILL TREE LIGHTING AT FAIRMONT DC

Tuesday, Dec. 3

The Fairmont Hotel, 2401 M St. NW, will host its 21st annual tree lighting ceremony from 5:30 to 7 p.m. In addition to the tree lighting, guests will be treated to caroling courtesy of the Georgetown Visitation Madrigals, festive card-making and holiday treats. Bring a toy to donate to Horton’s Kids, which empowers children in D.C.’s most under-resourced communities.

GEORGETOWN BID JINGLE ALL THE WAY

Saturday, Dec. 7

The Georgetown Business Improvement District presents its inaugural holiday music event from 1 to 4 p.m. Following live performances at 10 different outdoor locations, the event concludes with desserts and glögg wine at House of Sweden, where the Lucia Choir ends its annual holiday procession.

GEORGETOWN COOKIE TOUR

Saturdays, Dec. 7 and 14

From 1 to 5 p.m. on back-to-back Saturdays, small businesses around Georgetown will take part in Georgetown Main Street’s annual Georgetown Cookie Tour. Stop by each shop to collect a holiday cookie and browse for gifts. Tickets are $40 via Eventbrite; a limited number of same-day tickets will be available for $50.

A Starr Is Born in Georgetown

Osteria Mozza Opens on M Street

BY ROBERT DEVANEY

“I am confident that what we create together will knock the socks off of D.C.,” restaurateur Stephen Starr told neighborhood leaders three years ago, referring to his collaboration with Michelin-star chef Nancy Silverton.

No hype here. Osteria Mozza, in the former Dean & DeLuca market space at 3276 M St. NW, is the East Coast counterpart of Silverton’s revered modern Italian restaurant in Los Angeles. It is a stellar addition, not only to the Starr Restaurant Group, but to the Georgetown dining firmament.

As one longtime real estate executive observed, the arrival of Osteria Mozza takes Georgetown to a whole new level.

The 312-seat Osteria Mozza DC also comprises a cocktail bar, a mozzarella bar and an Italian market, spanning more than 20,000 square feet within the historic Georgetown Market building — next to the C&O Canal and a block from the intersection of Wisconsin Avenue and M

Street. The restaurant is currently open for dinner only.

“There’s magic in here, and it’s the magic I feel and the customers feel when they walk in,” Starr told WTOP News. “It’s not one thing. It’s the ceiling height. It’s the lighting. … You walk through, and you just feel like you’re somewhere else, somewhere special.”

Shortly before the Nov. 10 opening, the new partners enthusiastically traded compliments.

“I think it’s one of the most stunning restaurants I have ever been in, and now I’m very nervous that the food is not going to be at the level of the design. So I have to go back in the kitchen,” joked Silverton.

Starr added online: “Beautiful design, even better pasta.” He loves Silverton’s stracchino-stuffed focaccia di Recco, too.

Along with its homemade pastas and mozzarella bar, Osteria Mozza serves roasted meat, fish and vegetable dishes and

pizza. The produce market in the front also features Silverton-approved items such as pasta, olive oil and spices.

The renovations for the new venture are the work of New York-based design firm Roman and Williams. Costs ran up to $16 million and the Georgetown landmark shines anew.

Prior to the expansive brick market’s construction in 1865, the site was occupied by a butcher’s market, a debtor’s jail and two

later market structures; enslaved persons were auctioned in the basement of the current building’s predecessor.

Southern Californian Silverton — who is the same age as The Georgetowner — won the James Beard Foundation’s Outstanding Chef Award in 2014. This former political science student found her life’s calling when she worked as a cook on campus. Going on to study cooking and baking in England and France, she was hired by Wolfgang Puck as

Table set at at Osteria Mozza. Photo by Birch Thomas.

Main dining area of Osteria Mozza. Photo by Rey Lopez.

Spago’s opening pastry chef.

In 1998, at L.A.’s Campanile, Silverton got tagged “godmother of grilled cheese sandwiches.” Recognized for her role in popularizing sourdough and artisan breads, she calls her peanut butter cookie “The Cookie That Changed My Life.” Her Mozza brand ranges from L.A. and London to Singapore and, now, Washington, D.C.

Philadelphian Starr, who has made the City of Brotherly Love a dining destination, was an entertainer from an early age. He first opened music and comedy venues, such as Grandmom Minnie’s, Stars and Ripley’s Music Hall, as well as the Concert Company. Travel & Leisure wrote: “Starr creates complete environments with an artistic, almost cerebral approach.” He’s earned Restaurateur of the Year from both Bon Appétit and Zagat and Outstanding Restaurateur from the James Beard Foundation.

Starr’s company operates 40 eateries in the U.S. Besides this newest star in Washington, his D.C. spots include Le Diplomate, St. Anselm, Pastis, El Presidente and Bread Alley — with a reborn Occidental restaurant expected next year.

“To be honest, I’m here because Stephen Starr invited me to be here, so it’s not anything that I would’ve felt confident enough to do on my own,” Silverton told Hollywood on the Potomac at an opening reception for Osteria Mozza. “Certainly not something of this scale. But knowing Stephen and all of the support that I would get from him, it seemed like it was doable.”

“I’m very proud to be here, and the reason why I am here tonight is because I saw this building around four years ago, five years ago, and I just was blown away by the space

and the energy that I felt when I walked into this room,” Starr told partygoers at the Nov. 1 preview.

“I didn’t know what to do with it. But as I thought about it and talked to Joe Bastianich, who is a friend, he said, ‘You know what, this should be Nancy Silverton’s.’ We met with Nancy. So we got the whole corner here in Georgetown.” He added: “And one other thing, without making a declaration, here’s to Tuesday night.”

Whatever your takeaway on the election, Georgetown now has a new place of rest, beauty and luscious food, beautifully prepared and served. A star is born indeed.

Stephen Starr and Nancy Silverton.

Photo by Greg “Fritz” Blakey.

The cocktail bar at Osteria Mozza. Photo by Rey Lopez.

Orecchiette with sausage and Swiss chard. Photo by Birch Thomas.

Pollo alla Diavola su Crostone. Photo by Birch Thomas.

INS & OUTS

BY ROBERT DEVANEY

IN: BARNES & NOBLE REOPENS

Gone from Georgetown since 2011, Barnes & Noble, the nation’s largest bookstore chain, returned to its original location at 3040 M St. NW.

“The return to this historic building is a dramatic example of the ongoing revival of brick-and-mortar bookstores,” said Barnes & Noble CEO James Daunt, who called the store the most ambitious opened by anyone in over 15 years.

Evan Friss, author of “The Bookshop: A History of the American Bookstore,” helped cut the ribbon at the Nov. 6 grand reopening.

IN: OSTERIA MOZZA OPENS

It’s here — and it’s spectacular! The highly anticipated Osteria Mozza DC opened in the former Dean & DeLuca space at 3276 M St. NW on Nov. 10. [See this issue’s cover story.]

IN: FRAMEBRIDGE, BACK IN TOWN

Celebrating its 10-year anniversary, Framebridge opened a new Georgetown shop — its 29th — on Nov. 2 at 1506 Wisconsin Ave. NW, just steps from the company’s original offices.

IN: KIEHL’S, BACK IN FORMER SPACE

Another retailer will return. Skin care company Kiehl’s is moving back to 3110 M St. NW, formerly an Up/West clothing shop. Kiehl’s occupied this same location for years, until departing in 2019.

IN: BILLY HICKS!

Yes, Brat Pack nostalgia is real. Billy Hicks, which made its Oct. 23 debut at the lively corner of M and Potomac Streets, looks to be a youthful place to meet as well as dine. The new eatery at 3277 M St. NW feels like a keeper.

Some may recall Rob Lowe’s character Billy Hicks in the 1985 Georgetown-centric film “St. Elmo’s Fire.” The restaurant’s chairs are like the ones in the film and framed college yearbook photos from Georgetown, George Washington, American and Howard are on display.

IN: SWEATY BETTY OPENS NOV. 15

Sweaty Betty — “a global activewear and lifestyle brand for women” — plans to open on Nov. 15 at 3251 M St. NW, where Nisolo shoes used to be. Founded in London’s Notting Hill in 1998, the business was named after a song by British punk band the Macc Lads.

IN: CLUB PILATES

Now open at 1065 Wisconsin Ave. NW, above South Moon Under and Baker’s Daughter, Club Pilates offers classes to improve your posture, strengthen your core and correct muscle imbalances, creating a strong foundation for movement.

IN: 1223 POTOMAC GALLERY

The 1223 Potomac Gallery opened with “All Is Won” by Washington artist Corey Ramon Gibson. The gallery is a pop-up from musician and activist Justin “Yaddiya” Johnson.

IN: SPOT OF TEA … ON GRACE

A tea shop has made its debut at 3210 Grace St. NW — inside the Grace Street Collective. Suggests Spot of Tea: “Cool down with an iced Strawberry Matcha ... or warm up with a piping hot Blue Jasmine.”

MOVED: MARINE LAYER

San Francisco clothing store Marine Layer — named for an air mass that forms over water (San Francisco Bay, for instance) due to a temperature inversion — has shifted to 3213 M St. NW from its opening spot across the street.

COMING: GOOGLE STORE ON M

A brick-and-mortar Google Store — selling Google hardware including Pixel phones — is planned for 3235 M St. NW, in the former Aerie space. There are five locations so far.

COMING: IT’S A SECRET MED SPA

A skin care medical spa is under construction at 1365 Wisconsin Ave. NW. The corner building previously housed a BB&T Bank. Says the company, with 14 locations in Texas, Arizona and Chicago: “Our med spa in Georgetown is committed to creating a sanctuary of relaxation and renewal.”

COMING: AMORINO GELATO AT 34TH & M

Amorino Gelato will take over the space formerly occupied by Georgetown Running Company — and, before that, Poseurs bar — at 3401 M St. NW. The gelato is scooped in the shape of a rose. It will be the third local store for the French company, founded in 2002 by Cristiano Sereni and Paolo Benassi, which has more than 275 locations.

COMING: HUCKBERRY

Huckberry, a men’s apparel retailer with three other U.S. locations, will replace the departed Sleep Number mattress store at 1239 Wisconsin Ave. NW.

OUT: OAKBERRY

Oakberry has closed at 1560 Wisconsin Ave. NW. The smoothie and açai bowl franchise occupied the former Q & Wisconsin spot of La Jolie Bleue bakery and, before that, Dolcezza gelato, next to Los Cuates Mexican restaurant.

Author Evan Friss cuts the ribbon for Barnes & Noble’s reopening Nov. 6. Photo by Bill Starrels.

Paolo Benassi and Cristiano Sereni , co-founders of Amorino Gelato.

Owners David Greenberg and Nour Sharkas flank Billy Hicks manager Derek Rice. Photo by Bill Starrels.

Justin “Yaddiya” Johnson of the 1223 Potomac Gallery. Photo by Sonya Bernhardt.

Georgetown Rangila’s 30th Anniversary Show, Nov. 22-23

BY HAILEY WHARRAM

On Nov. 22 and 23, the nation’s largest charity dance showcase will return to Georgetown University’s Gaston Hall for its monumental 30th anniversary.

A South Asian performing arts showcase, Georgetown Rangila brings together hundreds of Georgetown undergraduates every fall to fundraise for a charity dedicated to enacting positive change within South Asian nations. “Rangila” is the Hindi word for “colorful.”

Last year, Rangila raised over $70,000 for Action Against Hunger’s climate resilience and disaster relief programs in countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Afghanistan. For its 2024 season, “Rangila 30: Under the Stars,” Rangila has partnered with the Little Sisters Fund, an organization dedicated to providing Nepali women and girls with life-changing access to educational resources and menstrual products.

“LSF is a truly inspiring organization, and I think all of us are really lucky and really happy to see that our 420 Rangila performers also see how inspiring LSF is,” Rushil Vashee, a senior coordinator of “Rangila 30,” told The Georgetowner. “We really wanted

to find an organization that made a tangible impact and could tell us what they are doing with our dollars.

“LSF is super great with telling us that $50 covers books and uniforms for one little sister for one year, $225 funds an entire year of education for one girl in the school scholarship program and, if someone wants to donate $3,600, they can secure a girl’s entire education. That’s eight to 12 years of education,” said Vashee.

Thanks to a series of successful fall fundraisers, in collaboration with sponsors such as Crepaway and Chipotle, Rangila has already raised thousands of dollars for LSF, even before ticket sales have gone live.

LSF’s powerful mission statement hits particularly close to home for Alison Karki, Vashee’s fellow senior coordinator, a Nepali American. “Being able to use a little bit of our privilege being at Georgetown and living in the U.S. to help my Nepali community, it just means so much to me,” Karki said.

Vashee, Karki and junior coordinator Rania Khan have worked tirelessly to ensure that “Rangila 30: Under the Stars” is the showcase’s most stellar year yet. For starters,

they have added a Saturday matinee alongside Rangila’s typical Friday and Saturday evening shows, meaning that an additional 700 people will be able to see this year’s production.

What’s more, after a 10-year hiatus, “Rangila 30” will also feature the longawaited return of Afro Fusion — a genre blending Afro-Caribbean and South Asian dance styles.

“[Afro Fusion] was around for “Rangila 20,” I believe, when we had our showcase at

the Kennedy Center,” Khan said. “Now, to be able to bring it back for our 30th anniversary just feels super, super meaningful.”

“Rangila 30” showtimes are: Friday, Nov. 22, at 7 p.m.; and Saturday, Nov. 23, at noon and 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 for Georgetown students and $30 for others. To purchase tickets and donate to the Little Sisters Fund, visit georgetown.campusgroups.com. More information about Georgetown Rangila is available at georgetown.rangila.org.

Dancers from Rangila’s Fall 2023 showcase. Image courtesy of Georgetown Rangila

Auction Block

BY KATE OCZYPOK

November’s Auction Block column includes: a religious portrait that passed through George Washington’s family; a gold, sapphire and diamond necklace; and a copy of Anne Rice’s “Interview with the Vampire,” annotated by the author.

CHRISTIE’S

Two Color Gold Mounted Silver Gilt Desk Clock

ESTIMATE: $200,000–$250,000

SOLD FOR: $504,000

This Fabergé desk clock, depicting the Admiralty in St. Petersburg, has a white enamel dial with Roman numerals and gold hands within a seedpearl bezel. The body of the clock is enameled in translucent light blue over a wavy guilloché ground. It is marked on the mount and under the base with “Fabergé” in Cyrillic and the initials of workmaster Henrik Wigström.

DOYLE

Van Cleef and Arpels Gold, Sapphire and Diamond Necklace

ESTIMATE: $100,000–$150,000

SOLD FOR: $191,000

This 14-carat gold pendant features heart-shaped oval and turquoise stones and a red and white enamel lighthouse. There are also nine round diamonds. It is signed: “Cartier, no. 11141.”

THE POTOMACK COMPANY

St. John the Evangelist

ESTIMATE: $250,000–$500,000

SOLD FOR: $325,000

This circa-18th-century British or European pastel portrait from the collection of George Washington descended through the Washington family. The portrait, which includes the original gilded rococo frame, was listed in Washington’s 1799 estate inventory. St. John the Evangelist is the patron saint of Freemasonry, which played a large role in the first president’s life.

BONHAMS

Annotated

Copy of “Interview with the Vampire” by Anne Rice

SOLD FOR: $7,040

Part of Bonhams’ “Elegance of the Eternal: The Anne Rice Collection” auction, this copy of the 20th anniversary edition of Rice’s 1996 novel, “Interview with the Vampire,” is tabbed and annotated in pen and silver Sharpie. The front flyleaf reads: “For the Radio Reading” and “Revisiting July 1, 2013.” Rice, who was born in 1941, died in December of 2021.

Weschler’s

Ombelles Jaunes Oil on Canvas

ESTIMATE: $70,000–$90,000

SOLD FOR: $138,600 (incl. buyer’s premium)

This bright oil painting on canvas of a botanical subject by French artist Bernard Buffet (1928-1999), from a Chevy Chase, Maryland, trust, is signed and dated “65.” The lot included a book, “Bernard Buffet,” by Maurice Druon and a Christmas card from Findlay Galleries, Chicago.

’Tis the Season to Be Dazzled

Hardy’s Holiday Village is returning to Nemacolin resort, bigger and more magical than ever. From November 29-December 23, explore an immersive destination beyond your festive dreams.

NOV. 29-DEC. 23

Virginia’s

Hotel Petersburg to Reopen Next Month

BY HAILEY WHARRAM

After decades of dormancy in the wake of a destructive 1969 fire, the historic Hotel Petersburg, located at 20 West Tabb St. in Petersburg, Virginia, will reopen as part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection on Dec. 5.

The work of Virginia architect Charles M. Robinson — who also designed buildings at James Madison University, the University of Richmond and William & Mary — the sixstory hotel opened in 1916. During its heyday, Hotel Petersburg was a community hotspot, frequented by tourists and local politicians alike.

In hopes of restoring the property to its former glory, Petersburg native Nat Cuthbert bought the property in 2017, marking the beginning of a sevenyear, $13.5-million renovation.

Amid this massive undertaking, Hotel Petersburg partnered with Retro Hospitality, a Richmondbased consulting firm that specializes in transforming historic properties into boutique hotels.

“The service that they provide and the support that they’ve been for the Hotel Petersburg team has been unmatched,” Director of Sale Erika Montenegro told The Georgetowner. “You know, they are a small hospitality company, but they’re growing and they’ve got the right idea in mind. They are collaborating with investors to bring unique hotels to Virginia.”

called the Boiler Room.

“The Boiler Room is going to have this speakeasy feel, so that’ll be a nice touch for once the rooftop is no longer the preferred area because of the seasonality,” Montenegro said.

In addition to attracting the attention of tourists, Hotel Petersburg hopes to become a beloved venue for city residents. One way the hotel plans to accomplish this is by developing relationships with local businesses.

“For our breakfast, we are going to be using one of the local bakeries to provide the pastries,

so it’s going to feed into the economy in Petersburg,” Montenegro said. “We’re excited about being able to just really keep the bond with our local entrepreneurs here in Petersburg, and about being able to offer them a place to showcase their talents.”

866.702.0810

Hotel Petersburg is also partnering with Historic Hotels of America, an official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

As for the renovations themselves, the hotel’s new facilities will include an outdoor courtyard, a restaurant, a rooftop lounge and a whiskey bar

More information about Hotel Petersburg’s history and amenities can be found at thehotelpetersburg.com. The hotel is currently accepting reservations for Jan. 4 and beyond at hilton.com.

Courtesy Hotel Petersburg and Retro Hospitality.

Shirley’s Restaurant in Hotel Petersburg opening on Dec. 5. Courtesy Tapestry Collection by Hilton.

The Georgetowner’s 2024 Holiday Theater Guide

BY RICHARD SELDEN

LAST CHANCE THIS MONTH …

It’s still Spooky Season at The Keegan Theatre, where “The Woman in Black” haunts Eel Marsh House on Nine Lives Causeway in Stephen Mallatratt’s adaptation of Susan Hill’s gothic novel, directed by Josh Sticklin (through Nov. 17).

Try on some wearable tech at Eaton House,

1201 K St. NW, courtesy of Solas Nua (“new light” in Irish). Directed by James Riordan, “Ar Ais Arís,” a VR experience from Galway-based Brú Theatre, is paired with James Elliott’s “Summertime,” directed by John King, from Dublin-based collective Murmuration, in which Stash and Steve’s romance plays out via headphones (through Nov. 17).

The Benhamou family is shaken by an antisemitic attack in “Prayer for the French Republic,” directed by Theater J Artistic Director Hayley Finn at the Edlavitch DC Jewish Community Center. Set in Paris, Joshua Harmon’s play asks: “Where are we safe?” (through Nov. 24).

John Leguizamo is a Colombian American laundromat owner in Arena Stage’s worldpremiere production of the Bogotá-born comedian and actor’s “The Other Americans,” directed by Ruben Santiago-Hudson. Content warning: “This production … portrays a mental health crisis and an act of self-harm” (through Nov. 24).

The voices of caregivers and medical professionals are woven into Mosaic Theater Company’s “The Art of Care,” conceived and directed by Derek Goldman in partnership with Georgetown University’s Laboratory for Global Performance and Politics. The show, at the Atlas Performing Arts Center, features music composed and performed live by Exum, lead djembe player of the “Black Panther” films (through Nov. 24).

“I know a place … ain’t nobody cryin’ … ain’t nobody worried.” It’s Signature Theatre, where “I’ll Take You There” tells the story of Stax Records, birthplace of the “Memphis Sound.” Sean-Maurice Lynch directs, with music director De’Anté Haggerty-Willis

(through Nov. 24).

Tots can’t wait for Turkey Day? Discovery Theater’s “Grandma’s Thanksgiving Visit,” at the Smithsonian’s Ripley Center, is just right for ages 3 to 6 (Nov. 19 to 21).

OPEN OR OPENING SOON AND PLAYING ON …

Starting tonight, Studio Theatre takes audiences back to college-town Ohio in the midst of second-wave feminism. David Auburn’s “Summer, 1976,” directed by Vivienne Benesch, stars Kate Eastwood Norris as an artist and Holly Twyford as a faculty wife (Nov. 13 to Dec. 22).

Next up, two adrenaline rides from Arena Stage: “Data,” by Matthew Libby, a Silicon Valley thriller directed by Margot Bordelon (through Dec. 15); and Agatha Christie’s “Death on the Nile,” adapted by Ken Ludwig and directed by Artistic Director Hana S. Sharif (Nov. 23 to Dec. 29).

Exclusively for Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, the Second City, improv troupe extraordinaire, has dreamed up a “Black Excellence Review” called “Dance Like There’s Black People Watching.” Rob Wilson directs (through Dec. 22).

In the expert hands of Signature Artistic Director Matthew Gardiner: Stephen Sondheim’s “A Funny Thing Happened on

609-1905

(540) 454-1930

Photo by Ryan Maxwell Photography. Courtesy Theater J.

ARTS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

the Way to the Forum,” with a book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart. Music direction is by Jon Kalbfleisch. The run includes Discussion Nights on Nov. 19 and Dec. 11, ASL Interpretation on Nov. 21 and Pride Night on Dec. 6 (through Jan. 12).

Tastes of Broadway: The National Theatre counts to “Six” like this: “Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived” (through Dec. 1); and winter’s the perfect time to let it go with Disney’s “Frozen” at Olney Theatre Center, directed by Sesame Street’s Alan Muroaka (through Jan. 5).

One for the kids in the Kennedy Center Family Theater: a shark named “Finn” comes of age in a world-premiere musical by Chris Nee, Michael Kooman and Christopher Dimond, directed by Adrienne Campbell-Holt and choreographed by Billy Bustamante (Nov. 23 to Dec. 22).

Opening in Harman Hall on Thanksgiving

visited by the ghost of social media star Mimi Marley. The music is by Aaron Kenny, the lyrics by Rob Berliner and the book by Berliner and Harrison Bryan (Nov. 20 to Dec. 22).

COMING IN DECEMBER …

“Spirit!” said Scrooge, “show me no more!” Ah, but we’re far from done, Ebenezer … The Little Theatre of Alexandria presents Donna Ferragut’s adaptation of “A Christmas Carol,” directed by Sarah Hardy (Dec. 7 to 21); and Matthew J. Keenan’s “An Irish Carol,” set in a Dublin pub, returns to The Keegan Theatre, directed by Founding Director Mark A. Rhea. On the Keegan calendar: a Young Professionals Happy Hour on Dec. 13, an Onsite Matinee With Child Care on Dec. 15, Pub Nights on Dec. 20 and 27 and a Post-Show Holiday Concert by Kingman Island Quartet on Dec. 21 (Dec. 4 to 31).

In Series rolls out a circus version of Giuseppe Verdi’s “Rigoletto” with a new English text by Bari Biern. Artistic Director Timothy Nelson directs, with music direction by Emily Baltzer (Dec. 7, 8, 14 and 15 at the Edlavitch DC Jewish Community Center; Dec. 11 and 12 at Baltimore Theatre Project).

weekend: Shakespeare Theatre Company’s production of Tom Stoppard’s “Leopoldstadt,” directed by Carey Perloff, which follows a Jewish family over six decades — from Viennese assimilation to the aftermath of the Holocaust (Nov. 30 to Dec. 29).

The capital’s annual Dickens-fest begins as always with Michael Wilson’s adaptation of “A Christmas Carol” at Ford’s Theatre, starring Craig Wallace as Scrooge. Michael Baron’s original direction has been recreated by Director of Artistic Programming José Carrasquillo. The full-scale production features original music by Josh Schmidt and choreography by Shea Sullivan (Nov. 21 to Dec. 31).

Paul Morella’s solo adaptation of “A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas” is an annual highlight of the Olney Theatre Center season. This year, Michael Russotto will step into the four dozen roles while Morella recuperates from a medical event (Nov. 29 to Dec. 29).

Then there’s “A Hanukkah Carol, or Gelt Trip! The Musical,” a world premiere at Bethesda’s Round House Theatre, directed and choreographed by Marlo Hunter, in which millennial influencer Chava Kanipshin is

Though Folger Theatre’s “Romeo and Juliet” has closed, the Romeo-less musical “& Juliet,” in which our heroine survives to love again, comes to the Kennedy Center Opera House (Dec. 17 to Jan. 5). And holly holy: The National Theatre welcomes “A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical” (Dec. 3 to 8). Family shows abound. Adventure Theatre MTC presents Ken Ludwig’s “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” at Glen Echo Park, directed by Patrick Flynn (Dec. 6 to Jan. 5). Nearby, at Bethesda’s Imagination Stage: “Petite Rouge: A Cajun Red Riding Hood,” based on the book by Mike Artell, illustrated by Jim Harris. Nathaniel P. Claridad directs, with zydeco music and lyrics by Joan Cushing (Dec. 11 to Feb. 8).

Along with its annual “Seasons of Light” celebration of holiday festivals from around the world (Dec. 2 to 20), Discovery Theater goes the fairy-tale route with “Little Red and the Gingerbread Man” (Dec. 18 and 19).

Kipling’s “Jungle Book” pounces into the Kennedy Center Terrace Theater in a Washington National Opera adaptation co-directed by Artistic Director Francesca Zambello and Brenna Corner. The production features music by Kamala Sankaram, a libretto by Kelley Rourke and Bollywoodstyle dancing by Indian dance company Taal (Dec. 13 to 15).

More animals — a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan and a Royal Bengal tiger — arrive at the Kennedy Center by boat for “Life of Pi” in the Eisenhower Theater (Dec. 17 to Jan. 5). Meanwhile, at “Shear Madness” in the Theater Lab, feel free to take another stab at whodunit.

Mosaic Theatre’s “The Art of Care” runs through November 24. Courtesy Mosaic Theatre.

10 Family-Friendly Holiday Options

BY KATE OCZYPOK

Looking for family-friendly things to do over the holidays? Here are 10 top options. Whether it’s an unforgettable show like the Washington Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” you have in mind, or something new and different like Georgetown Jingle, search no further. Happy holidays!

ZOO LIGHTS AT THE NATIONAL ZOO

Nov. 22 to Jan. 4

Visitors to Zoo Lights at the National Zoo, now in its 16th year, wander lighted pathways and thrill to immersive displays. There will also be nightly musical performances and plenty of seasonal treats.

MOUNT VERNON’S WINTER GLOW

Nov. 29 to Dec. 23

Mount Vernon is hosting festive evenings with twinkling lights set to holiday music. Visit an 18th-century winter encampment, toast marshmallows and make s’mores over a fire and greet special guest Aladdin the Camel.

THE WASHINGTON BALLET’S “THE NUTCRACKER”

Nov. 30 to Dec. 29

The magic begins this year on Nov. 30. Set along the streets of Georgetown, the production includes dancing cherry blossoms and famous historical figures like Harriet Tubman, with George Washington himself as the Nutcracker.

TUDOR PLACE HOLIDAY EVENTS

Throughout December

Tudor Place turns into a cozy winter wonderland this time of year. Enjoy a holiday tea-and-tour or tour the historic home by candlelight. On Dec. 12, the 1970s return for “Tudor Lights: Disco Christmas.”

MARIAH CAREY’S CHRISTMAS TIME

Dec. 1

The Queen of Christmas is back! “Mariah Carey’s Christmas Time” tour will be stopping at Capital One Arena. Don’t miss hearing MC

sing her hits and holiday favorites, including a certain inescapable earworm.

THE NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

Dec. 5

The lottery to attend the lighting — a tradition since the Coolidge administration — has closed, but the National Christmas Tree will be on display all season long, plus 58 others representing the 50 states, the District and U.S. territories.

HEURICH’S CHRISTMAS MARKET

Dec. 6 to 13

For the first time in its 12-year history, the Heurich House Museum’s Christmas Markt (German spelling) will last for an entire week. More than 60 local artisans will showcase their goods. Plus: tours, workshops and the Winter Biergarten.

THE WHARF’S HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE AND PARTY

Dec. 7

Over 60 decorated boats will sail along the Washington Channel in the Wharf’s annual Holiday Boat Parade. There will also be ornament decorating, holiday karaoke, fireworks and, of course, pictures with the jolly man in red.

GEORGETOWN JINGLE

Dec. 7

Georgetown is forgoing Glow this year and introducing Georgetown Jingle, featuring live musical performances at 10 outdoor locations. Then follow the Lucia Choir’s procession to House of Sweden for glögg wine and holiday treats.

NATIONAL MENORAH LIGHTING

Dec. 25

This year, Hanukkah begins the night of Dec. 25 and ends the night of Jan. 2. The National Menorah Lighting on the 25th includes special guests and a performance by the military bands of the U.S. Army Military District of Washington.

THE are HERE HOLIDAYS

Philadelphia Ballet: George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker® NOV. 27 & NOV. 29–DEC. 1 | OPERA HOUSE

Full of warmth and holiday cheer, the beloved classic returns in a whimsical production from Philadelphia Ballet. Resplendent costumes, opulent sets, and Balanchine’s timeless choreography promise a grand holiday spectacle.

RENÉE FLEMING VOICES A Winter Gathering with Kathy Mattea: Good News and Other Favorites

DEC. 6 | TERRACE THEATER

Grammy Award® winner Kathy Mattea brings her deep acoustic music roots to an original and traditional holiday music program.

NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA A Holiday Pops! With Special Guest Jessica Vosk DEC. 6 & 7 | CONCERT HALL

Washington, D.C.’s most dazzling holiday concert returns! This year, the Heritage Signature Chorale and Broadway darling Jessica Vosk light up the festively decorated Concert Hall as special guests.

tkc.co/holidays

The ONLY OFFICIAL WEBSITE of the Kennedy Center (202) 467-4600 Groups call (202) 416-8400

For all other ticket-related customer service inquiries, call the Advance Sales Box Office at (202) 416-8540

Courtesy The Wharf DC.

Courtesy National Zoo.

‘The Impressionist Moment’ at the National Gallery

BY ARI POST

On April 15, 1874, a small exhibition was opened in Paris by the “Anonymous Society of Painters, Sculptors, Engravers, etc.” It premiered one month before the opening of the French government’s annual official Salon, the most important art event in the West for at least a century. The Salon was the gatekeeper of the European art world, capable of defining standards, shaping public taste and pronouncing the fate of an artist’s career.

Compared to the Salon, which featured thousands of paintings by thousands of artists hung floor-to-ceiling in a grand hall originally built for the World’s Fair, the showing by the Société featured about 165 paintings by 30-odd artists in the studio of a working photographer.

Among this group of anonymous painters were Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne and Edgar Degas, and among the paintings was Claude Monet’s “Impression, Sunrise.”

This legendary exhibition is now understood — whether in fact or in fashion — as the birth of Impressionism. It was also, in effect, the opening salvo of the avant-garde, a movement of artists who would strive throughout the next century to create new artforms in opposition to the “official” art and dominant tastes of their time.

Incredibly, the story of these two “competing” exhibitions has never been the subject of its own exhibition until now. “Paris 1874: The Impressionist Moment,” on view at the National Gallery, brings together what sure seems to be the vast majority of paintings from the Société exhibition, juxtaposed with major works from that year’s Salon.

The galleries offer a kind of parallel world of ‘now’ and ‘then’ on simultaneous display. We see — often side by side — two versions of the most celebrated paintings from that moment: the ones that were anointed by the Salon in 1874, and the ones that we treasure today.

The moment you enter, two paintings crystalize the disparate sensibilities of the thenand-now: Jean-Léon Gérôme’s “L’Eminence Grise” of 1873 and Monet’s “Impression, Sunrise” of 1872. Gérôme, who was probably the wealthiest and most famous artist in Europe at the time, was awarded the Salon’s Medal of Honor for “L’Eminence Grise.”

Less than a month before, Monet’s “Impression, Sunrise” was mocked in a popular satirical magazine as slapdash and superficial. The article reveled in denouncing the Société exhibition, calling out the artists for caring more

Native Art Market

about sensation and rapid execution than for precise drawing, composition and subject matter. Spinning a thread of witticism from the title of Monet’s painting, the author labeled these artists “impressionists.”

The exhibition features a number of artists who walked the line between the Academy and Impressionism. Among them is Manet. Although he was closely associated with the Impressionists, he chose not to participate in their exhibitions, wanting desperately to succeed within the official Salon system despite struggling with its conservative standards.

It feels crucial to mention Berthe Morisot, an Impressionist who had a number of paintings in the Société exhibition. Like Mary Cassatt, she was a woman painting in France in the 19th century and a lot of subjects were effectively off-limits to her. Her workarounds of societal restrictions are sometimes extraordinary — and her paintings punctuate the exhibition with the

most lyrical depictions of human experience. I find it endlessly interesting to consider how much we owe our contemporary aesthetic sensibilities to the original Impressionists, this small group of artists who unmoored art from religious, political and social subject-capture. Without them, Western art might still be entrenched in Greco-Roman idealization. Their vision taught us to see the beauty of life as it is. This is an extraordinary exhibition that covers a range of fascinating histories — from the birth of suburbs to civil war to the game-changing technology of putting paint in tubes — that ignited and defined an artistic revolution. It is one of the most well-structured and comprehensible exhibitions of its size that I’ve ever seen. I loved it. Don’t miss it.

Impression, Sunrise,” 1872. Claude Monet. Courtesy NGA.

Lynch and Flannery Swing into Christmas at Strathmore

BY KATE OCZYPOK

Jane Lynch, wisecracking coach Sue Sylvester in “Glee,” and Kate Flannery, wild yet lovable cocktail enthusiast Meredith Palmer in “The Office,” have teamed up to tour this holiday season in “A Swingin’ Little Christmas.” Coming to Strathmore on Dec. 4, the show promises to be part cabaret, part comedy and a bit of Christmas kitsch.

The duo, who met in the 1980s Chicago theater scene, will perform with singer Tim Davis and the Tony Guerrero Quintet.

“Kate, Tim Davis, Tony Guerrero of our quintet came up with the idea of an album first, then decided to take it on the road

because we had so much fun and we love the music so much,” said Lynch. “It’s that late ’50s and early ’60s big band and swing that typifies the best of Christmas music.”

Flannery echoed that sentiment, saying the show is like the Rat Pack with “a couple of funny broads.” “Jane and I are like sisters from another mister,” she said. “Our show is a throwback — you’ll hear great songs you already know with a late ’50s jazz vibe.”

One of the songs Flannery loves to sing during the show is a version of the carol “Good King Wenceslas” in which she can’t remember how to pronounce his name. “It’s more like

‘Good King What’s-His-Face,’” she said. “The song arrangement is reminiscent of Louis Prima’s ‘That Old Black Magic.’”

Lynch said they explain in the show how their series were canceled around the same time, and that’s when they decided to hit the road. “We used to be a tour de force and now we’re forced to tour,” she joked.

When “Glee” ended, Lynch was asked to do a cabaret in New York, but didn’t want to do it solo, so Flannery joined her.

“After a few years of performing together across the country, we had the idea to do a Christmas album,” Flannery said. “We did it on our own dime and self-produced it on our own label, called KitschTone Records.”

The album did so well that it reached number eight on Billboard’s Adult Contemporary chart. “Now we’re contractually obligated to spend every December together,” Flannery said. “Thank God we have fun doing it!”

Their favorite traditions include the smell of pine incense coming from a little log cabin that Lynch’s family bought out every holiday season, and holiday tunes sung by greats like Bing Crosby, Perry Como and Rosemary Clooney.

Flannery, who is one of seven children, always gets together with her family for a turkey dinner and watches “every Christmas movie we can think of.” Of course, there is also plenty of music. “Classic Christmas

music is better than Prozac or Valium,” she said. “It always puts me in a good mood.” While they will be in Maryland for their Strathmore show, the two have connections to Georgetown. Lynch remembered being in Georgetown 14 years ago for the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, the first year “Glee” aired.

“I was walking down the street and an a cappella group from Georgetown University gathered around me and sang ‘Don’t Stop Believin’’ in an amazingly beautiful arrangement,” Lynch said. “I almost burst into tears.”

Flannery went to school at Shenandoah University in nearby Winchester, Virginia, for two years in the mid-1980s. She recalled driving to Georgetown on Saturday nights once or twice each semester.

“My friend Rochelle’s brother was a bartender at a place called Pinocchio’s at M and Wisconsin Ave.,” she said. “We would window-shop all the cool shops that we couldn’t afford.”

Whenever she is in D.C., Flannery still likes to shop in Georgetown and discover new restaurants. “Georgetown is a great place to walk around and, yes, I always pass the Exorcist Steps. They’re so iconic and scary,” she said.

Tickets for “A Swingin’ Little Christmas,” on Dec. 4 at 8 p.m., are available at strathmore.org.

Make the Mansion your one-stop shop for fabulous finds that make marvelous gifts!

Thu–Sat, Nov 14–16, 10am–6pm

Give amazing gifts that give back! Museum Shop Holiday Market brings together the area’s best museum shops and artists at the Mansion at Strathmore. Your purchase supports nonprofit cultural organizations in our community.

HOLIDAY MARKET Museum

Kate Flannery and Jane Lynch are bringing their holiday tour to Strathmore in December. Photo by Chris Haston.

BY ALLYSON BURKHARDT

This holiday season, explore the charm of Georgetown, where shopping becomes an experience wrapped in history and festivity. You can walk the enchanting cobblestone streets lined with a delightful mix of boutiques, shops and restaurants.

Join us in supporting a culture of entrepreneurship as we create connections within our community. Georgetown’s retailers take pride in their offerings and value their clientele. This gift guide will help you navigate our bustling neighborhood as you discover their thoughtfully curated collections. By shopping local, you can embrace the spirit of the season while ensuring that the commerce

The Georgetowner’s Local Guide to Gifting

of the community continues to thrive.

We have created a lively assortment that caters to every recipient on your list. Whether you’re searching for sustainable finds, luxurious treats or heartfelt handmade items, the perfect presents are available right here.

The spirit of the season is about more than gifting; it’s a time to express love and appreciation for those in your life. Here’s to spreading joy and yuletide cheer!

Allyson Burkhardt is the founder of Let’s Get Dressed! Image & Style Services. Visit letsgetdresseddc.com to put your best look forward.

1.

2.

SCOUT Kilted Age Lunch Box. $27. Scout Bags.

Nativity Scene Porcelain Mug. $22. Boat House Apparel.

3. Men’s Wool Sneaker. $120. Allbirds.

4. SKIMS Unisex Leopard Robe. $128. Skims. 5. MAKEUP FOREVER Mini Artist Pencil Kit. $39. Sephora.

6. WALLACE & SEWELL Shetland Throw. $350. The Phoenix.

7. Robust Ruby Flower Arrangement. $130. Georgetown Blooms.

8. Friandise ‘Sweet Treat’ Candle. $84. Diptyque.

9. Deluxe Bonbon Box of 12. $42. Arcay Chocolates.

10. Denzel Sports Car Book Set. $195. Sid Mashburn.

THE LATEST DISH

Comfort Food + Comfort Cocktails = What You Voted For

BY LINDA ROTH

Fish & Fire Food Group has expanded its empire with the opening of The Strand DC in the Deanwood neighborhood at 5131 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave. NE. The historic building was a theater built in the 1920s to service the fledgling motion picture industry, focusing on Black films in a Black neighborhood. Owner Greg Casten reports that all employees are from Ward 7. GM Marctre Freeman previously worked at F&FFG’s Ivy City Smokehouse; assistant GM Dwayne “Gator” Thompson grew up in Deanwood and previously ran Ivy City Market. F&FFG corporate chefs Dale Jones and David Stein created the menu.

Longtime GM Kelly Laczko and her wife, Kethida Laczko, have reopened the former Duplex Diner as Her Diner at 2004 18th St. NW in Adams Morgan. It continues to be “a queer neighborhood bar that is welcoming to everyone.”

Nero wine bar and lounge reopened in Dupont Circle at 1207 19th St. NW with an outdoor patio and private event space, as well as a subterranean speakeasy named

Sabina (Nero’s wife). Clue to finding it: look for a water spigot in a weird spot — it’s the door handle. The cocktail menu is curated by Jack Sinclair, a bartender (now beverage consultant) at Death and Co. He built his cocktail rep at the original Nero.

Quick Hits: Life Alive Organic Cafe, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, will open in D.C.’s West End at 2301 M St. NW in the late fourth quarter. This will be its 11th location nationally … Ghanaian cookbook author Eric Adjepong will open Elmina in the first quarter of 2025 at 2208 14th St. NW, where Seven Reasons used to be. It will feature West African food. Beer, booze and burger place Legacy HiFi is planning to open this month at 2471 18th St. NW in Adams Morgan, where Tight Five Pub used to be.

Just Opened: Ashok Bajaj of Knightsbridge Restaurant Group opened Rosedale, featuring new American food, near Van Ness. The kitchen (as well as the one at Annabelle) is helmed by Frank Ruta, who is renowned for the late, great Palena … Sisters Hilal and Muska Rahim and their mother Nazifa opened Bonjon Rumi in Glover Park at 2444 Wisconsin Ave. NW, where Surfside used to be. They also own Kabobistan in Arlington. Will Patton of Hive Hospitality (Jônt and Bresca) and Devin Kennedy (NYC’s closed Pouring Ribbons and Cote) are slated to open Press Club, a music-centric cocktail lounge and vinyl record bar, in the fourth quarter at 1506 19th St. NW in Dupont Circle. (They had me at: the bar will be lined with unique glassware rather than bottles.)

NYC-based Westville is slated to open in Arlington at The Crossing Clarendon development at 2800 Clarendon Boulevard, where Barnes & Noble is located and near where Three Notch’d Brewery will open. It will be books above beer. An opening in the third quarter of 2026 is targeted.

Mark Minicucci, Dean Mosones and Margaux Donati are aiming for the late first quarter of 2025 to open their second Bar Chinois, inside the Reva at 1900 Crystal Drive in Crystal City. It will seat 80 plus 30 more on the outdoor patio. Bar Colline, a French bistro from the Hilton brothers (Chez Billy Sud, El Rey and Parc de Ville), is also slated to open at the Reva.

Linda Roth is the founder and CEO of Linda Roth Associates, a D.C.-based public relations and marketing firm that specializes in the food service and hospitality industries. Follow her at: @LindaRothPR, #LindaRothPR or lindarothpr.com.

The Strand’s garlic shrimp. Courtesy The Strand. Courtesy Her Diner.

Anchor Fund Celebrates 10 Years

BY CARRINGTON TARR

The Anchor Fund, a nonprofit that provides emergency funding to survivors of domestic abuse, celebrated its 10th anniversary on October 17th at the Fathom Gallery in Georgetown. Working with partner organizations throughout the D.C. region, the fund has made more than 2,400 grants totaling $1.225 million since its founding.

Anchor Fund Board Members (L to R): Jocelyn Sigue, Stacey Lubar, Carrington Tarr, Executive Director Amy Goldberg, Lisa Gunty, Lisa Weiss, Chip Lunde. Courtesy The Anchor Fund.

L to R: Kristin Cecchi, Candace Ourisman, Anastasia Tafuri, Ali Galgano. Courtesy The Anchor Fund.

Roberta Bantel and Stefan Jacoby. Courtesy The Anchor Fund.

L to R: Greg and Stacey Lubar; Stephanie and Keith Lemer. Courtesy The Anchor Fund.

Marvin Jawer and Todd Galkin. Courtesy The Anchor Fund.

Lombardi Women Raise Funds for Breast Cancer Research

BY KATE OCZYPOK

Lombardi Women: Connecting for a Cure celebrated 18 years of existence during its recent fall event at Capital One Hall in Virginia. The organization has netted more than $5 million in donations for breast cancer research at Georgetown University’s Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center. The Sept. 26 event raised over $290,000 for Georgetown Lombardi’s Nina Hyde Center for Breast Cancer Research.

Executive Committee members Sherrie Beckstead, Jennifer Drake, Meredith LaPier, Jennifer Bognet, Reema Bakarania and January Adkins. Photo by Phil Humnicky/Georgetown University. Courtesy Lombardi Women.

Panelists Alima Draughon, Dr. Claudine Isaacs, Lesli Foster, Dr. Lucy Maria de la Cruz and Dr. Tara Abraham. Courtesy Lombardi Women.

Jennifer Drake, Sherrie Beckstead, Donald Dunn and Patrick McEvoy. Courtesy Lombardi Women.

‘John Lewis: A Life’

A TOWERING FIGURE IS GIVEN THE STELLAR BIOGRAPHY HE DESERVES.

BY KITTY KELLEY

A masterful biography is like a shooting star. It’s a celestial phenomenon that lights up the night sky and bestows a sense of wonder and excitement. Such a sensation occurs when the stars align and match a subject of worth with an estimable writer. That kind of luminous pairing occurs in David Greenberg’s “John Lewis: A Life,” the first major biography of the man Martin Luther King Jr. called “the boy from Troy.”

Growing up in Alabama’s abysmal poverty, the third of 10 children, John Robert Lewis (1940-2020) aspired to be a preacher — a challenge for a child with a heavy rural accent and a speech impediment. At the age of 5, he practiced preaching to the chickens on his family’s farm in Pike County, on the outskirts of Troy. His elementary-school education was at Dunn’s Chapel, funded by Sears, Roebuck heir Julius Rosenwald, who, with Booker T. Washington, built 5,000 schools for Black children around the South. After the Bible, Washington’s “Up from Slavery” became young John’s favorite book.

Born into segregation, Lewis sat in the “colored only” balcony to watch movies, and he drank Cokes standing outside the drugstore

while his white peers sat at the counter. He finally stopped going to the Pike County Fair because he could only go on “Colored Day.”

Lewis became the first in his family to attend college. After being rejected by Troy University in 1957 due to segregation, he enrolled at American Baptist Theological Seminary in Nashville, supposedly the most liberal city in the Confederacy. He later transferred to nearby Fisk University, where he earned his degree.

As a college sophomore, Lewis became transfixed by the preaching of nonviolence by King, Mahatma Gandhi and members of the Social Gospel movement. Unshakeable in his faith that “God would never allow his children to be punished for doing the right thing,” the young man consecrated himself to the civil rights movement and began organizing sitins at segregated lunch counters, stand-ins at segregated department stores and swim-ins at segregated pools.

The youngest speaker at 1963’s March on Washington, Lewis was one of the original Freedom Riders to integrate seating on public buses; he was frequently bloodied and beaten unconscious. He was arrested and jailed dozens of times for demonstrating throughout the

South, and once spent 40 days in the Mississippi State Penitentiary.

Yet he never struck back, adhering always to Gandhi’s nonviolence creed. “We were determined not to let any act of violence keep us from our goal,” said the young man once so terrified of thunder and lightning that he’d hide in the family’s steamer trunk whenever it stormed.

Greenberg, a prize-winning professor of U.S. history and journalism at Rutgers University, divides his spectacular biography of the civil rights icon into two parts: Protest (1940-1968) and Politics (1969-2020). One of his most arresting chapters, “John vs. Julian,” mimics Aesop’s fable of the tortoise and the hare: Lewis, the slow-moving tortoise, went up against Julian Bond, the fast-paced hare, in a 1986 campaign to be the Democratic candidate for Georgia’s 5th District seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. The campaign defined their professional futures while destroying their once-close friendship.

The contrast was stark: Lewis in shiny, rumpled suits and worn-out shoes, alongside Bond in custom-made blazers and tasseled loafers. Smooth, suave and light-skinned, Bond, an “incorrigible ladies’ man,” was hiding a heavy cocaine habit, which Lewis exposed during a debate by challenging him to take a drug test. Bond refused.

Lewis pushed. “Can you tell us why you will not take the test,” he said, “so that people will know that you are not on drugs?” Bond responded that he was not on drugs, and the moderator asked Lewis if he was accusing his opponent of illegal drug use.

“No,” said Lewis, a bit disingenuously. “I do not suspect that he is on drugs, I just feel like he should take the test to clear his name and remove public doubt. People need to know.” Bond was incensed. “Why did I have to wait twenty-five years to find out what you really thought of me?”

Lewis replied, “Julian, my friend, this campaign is not a referendum on friendship. This is not a referendum on the past. This is a referendum on the future of our city, the future of our country.”

Supported by the white vote in Atlanta, Lewis won the runoff, 52-48, and later the election. “We will shake hands,” he told the press. “The wounds will heal.” The wounds remained. Bond died in 2015 at age 75; Lewis was not invited to the funeral.

The most compelling aspect of this work is its in-depth research, including 250 interviews, which allowed Greenberg to paint a vivid portrait of the man heralded as “the conscience of Congress.” The professor’s academic credentials (summa cum laude at Yale; Ph.D. from Columbia), combined with his journalistic talent (bylines in Politico, the New Yorker, the Atlantic and the New York Times), have brought forth this captivating biography of a hero who cried easily, laughed often and never lost faith in “the beloved community,” where all God’s children, particularly those who got into “good trouble,” would be blessed.

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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