capitalcommunitynews.com • January 2012
Est. 1981
T! C RA T N CO
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L SO AU Park
CAPITOL HILL
ADAMS MORGAN
4607 Davenport St., NW $679,500 www.homevisit.com/DC7725637
Pete Frias 202-744-8973 www.PeterFrias.com
CAPITOL HILL
1641 V Street, NW
1713 Bay Street, SE
526 24th Street, NE
$674,500 3BR/2.5BA Colin Johnson 202-536-4445
$618,500 – CONTRACT!
$299,000 – CONTRACT! Charming 2BR+Den/2BA w/ Pkg! Todd Bissey 202-841-SOLD THE BISSEY TEAM
www.homevisit.com/DC7718338
Todd Bissey 202-841-SOLD THE BISSEY TEAM
CAPITOL HILL
329 East Capitol Street, SE $1,998,000 www.homevisit.com/DC7645189
Stan Bissey 202-841-1433 THE BISSEY TEAM
CRESTWOOD 1731 Crestwood Drive, NW Come find out why Crestwood is one of DC’s best kept secrets! $987,500 www.MouseOnHouse.com/16710 CAPITOL HILL
LEDROIT PARK
Remodeled 3BR w/ Bsmt. Steps to the H Street Corridor! Todd Bissey 202-841-SOLD THE BISSEY TEAM
HILL CREST
3822 Carpenter St., SE $467,500 www.MouseOnHouse.com/16455
Fern Pannill 240-508-4856
UNDER CONTRACT!
Todd Bissey 202-841-7653
Stan Bissey 202-841-1433
134 Adams Street, NW $659,500 www.MouseOnHouse.com/16694
Genie Hutinet 202-413-7661
CAPITOL HILL
CAPITOL HILL
CAPITOL HILL
1244 D Street, NE
738 7th Street, SE
$744,500
Commercial Office w/ 2,200 sq.ft. & 2 garage spaces. $4,050 + util. Stan Bissey 202-841-1433
www.MouseOnHouse.com/16695
THE BISSEY TEAM
Colin Johnson 202-536-4445
www.MouseOnHouse.com/16690
Genie Hutinet 202-413-7661
627 3rd Street, NE Renovated 3BR/3.5BA. $899,500
CAPITOL HILL 243 10th St, SE $299,900 www.homevisit.com/DC7725572
Pete Frias 202-744-8973 www.PeterFrias.com
“WHERE WASHINGTON SHOPS FOR A NEW ADDRESS!”® 225 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20003
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Remember! Many are the Agents... But Few are Pros!
Price Reduced Dupont – Rutland Court 1725 17th Street, NW #411 Perfectly Located Pied a Terre! Located in the always desirable Dupont Circle neighborhood this lovely studio boasts charm and wonderful attention to detail! Featuring gorgeous hardwood floors, 9.5ft. ceilings, crown molding, recessed lighting, great natural light and custom blinds. A modern kitchen with chestnut cabinetry, dishwasher, built-in microwave, storage space and a full size washer/dryer in unit. With a walk-score of 97 we have to agree that this location is a walker’s paradise! $239,000
First Open Sunday, January 15th 1-4pm Capitol Hill 1408 E Street, SE Steps To Everything! This lovely three bedroom/one and one half bath Victorian charmer awaits your finishing touches. Positioned steps to the Metro, shopping and Eastern Market. Spacious living/dining areas with an updated kitchen and powder on the first level. The second floor boasts three bedrooms and a hall bath. Complete with a rear patio! Won’t last long at this price!
$469,000 Price Reduced Foggy Bottom 2401 H Street, NW #407 Bonwit Plaza Great one bedroom home in close in Foggy Bottom-half block to the Metro, plus GWU Med School across the street. Steps to Georgetown, Dupont, shops and restaurants! All utilities included in the low condo fee—plus a laundry room on each floor. Great sun deck on the building roof. Origninal parquet floors, metal kitchen and tile bath in original colors and condition! $269,000 Price Reduced North Beach, MD 9137 Atlantic Avenue Sitting On The Dock Of The Bay!! Absolutely stunning Bay views from this waterfront and boardwalk sited property. Boasting four bedrooms/three and one half baths of gracious living with every amenity that waterfront living affords. This lovely home is not to be missed—your waterfront dream should be deferred no longer!!! $529,000 or $2,600/mo. rent New Creek, WV Come Home For The Holidays! Sit by the fire and enjoy the snow as you take in the serenity of the mountains and the pristine, panoramic views. This gorgeous log cabin is sited on 47 acres of meadows and mixed hardwoods. Hiking paths meander through your own private park-like setting, and wildlife so abundant you begin to feel that awe inspiring sense of one’s place in the natural world. The cabin is less than 2 years old, custom built with many unique features. Radiant heat plus a stone fireplace to keep you toasty as days grow short. Plus custom finishes like a Jacuzzi tub and stone walkin-shower; chestnut barn board and antique cabinets/doors. Complete with a large workshop/barn boasting a finished loft for guests or a home office. Property is unrestricted and can be subdivided. Must be seen to be appreciated! $278,000 • For additional Information contact Chad (304) 790-0126
Chesapeake Beach, MD 8611 Addison Bridge Place –Sea Gate On The Bay! Better than new pristine end unit town home with fabulous Bay views from almost every room! Hardwood floors on 1st w/ wd-burning fireplace, eat-in kitchen and a huge deck . Second floor master with ensuite bath and a balcony. This level also boasts a second bedroom with a hall bath.The third level features two bedrooms/one bath. Two assigned parking spaces, and a community pier! $459,000
Huntingtown, MD 3030 Mayberry Avenue Welcome home to this delightful colonial in much sought after Marley Run! Beautifully maintained by it’s current owner this immaculate home is move-in ready! Located on one of the most beautiful private wooded lots in the community this home offers four bedrooms, two full and one half baths, large kitchen with new hardwood floors, family room with stone fireplace off kitchen, formal living room, dining room, full unfinished basement, attached two car garage plus large screened porch and open deck which overlooks a nature lover’s paradise! $399,000
SW / Waterfront – Gangplank Marina 600 Water Street, SW For the unique, discriminating and adventurous home buyer… Floating House… Own a snug contemporary home on the water. Cathedral ceilings, skylights, large fully equipped kitchen, step-down living room, step-down bedroom, den/loft, roof-top deck with fantastic views of the sunsets, 4th of July fireworks and surrounding yacht marina. CAC, electric heat pumps, great neighbors and much more. Must see to appreciate. A whole new experience in living! $185,000
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Hill Buzz / Aceleste McCall The Bulletin Board The District Beat: Closing the Book on Ethics Reform / Martin Austermuhle The Numbers / Soumya Bhat & Kwame Boadi Hine Project Moves Ahead / Roberta Weiner Gallaudet Goes To Market/ Dana Bell Clean Rivers Project Digs Into a Dirty Problem / Gwyn Jones Final Phase for H Street Streetcar / Dana Bell Virginai Ave. tunnel continues on Track / Gwyn Jones ANC 6A Re port / Roberta Weiner ANC 6B Report / Emily Clark ANC 6C Report / Roberta Weiner ANC 6D Report / Roberta Weiner
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Spotted on the Hill / Peter Vankevich CHV Starduct Gala / Mike Canning Everything’s Up for Bid! / Ruth Mitchell INFO and the Instirute for Education / Amanda Abrams Stuart Hobson School History Project / Jan MacKinnon South by West / William Rich Capitol Riverfront: 2012 Projection / Michael Stevens H Street Life: / Elise Bernard Barracks Row 2012 / Sharon Bosworth
realestate 75 78
Car Barns on the Hilll / Robert S. Pohl Changing Hands: Home Sales / Don Denton
Wall Street Journal recognizes local Hill agent,
Jason Martin Group, as one of best in nation!
beautyhealthfitness: New Year, New Year! 84 88 90 91 92 92 96 97
What’s New in Beauty for 2012 / Amanda Wilson Discovering the Secret to Losing Weight / Pattie Cinelli Champion Tatoo / Heather Schoell Does It Work? Zaggora Hot Pants /Jen Zatkowski The Lowdown on Supplements / Pattie Cinelli Vitamin E Takes a Bad Rap / Joe Tarantolo, MD Beyond happiness / Ronda Besnick Hauss At Your Service / Heather Schoell
Capitol Hill based Jason Martin Group of Keller Williams Capital Properties was named one of America’s top real estate professional teams by The Wall Street Journal and REAL Trends. Jason Martin Group is now a member of the Thousand Top Real Estate Professionals, a prestigious national awards ranking sponsored annually by the two respected publications. Jason Martin Group is now ranked in the top one half of 1 percent of the more than 1 million REALTORS® nationwide – and right here on the Hill!
COMING SOON!
COMING SOON!
905 2nd Street NE Multi unit building for sale Recently updated. Three two bedroom / two bath units. Never occupied.
1424 Duncan Street NE Fully renovated two bedroom / two and one half bath property with parking. Great layout.
ARTSdiningentertainment Special 99 102 104 106 108
Theater Review: Hairspray / Barbara Wells Dining Notes / Celeste McCall Wine guys: Drinking Resolutions 2012 / Jon Genderson At The Movies / Mike Canning The Literary Hill / Karen Lyon
kidsandfamily 111 116
Kids & Family Notebook / Kathleen Donner School Notes / comiled by Susan Johnson
homesandgardens 123 126 128 130
The Hill Gardener / Rindy O’Brien A Bucket List for 2012 / Catherine Plume Garden Spot: Winter Beauty / Derek Thomas Dear Garden Lady / by Anonymous
202.641.0299 jasonmartingroup.com COVER: Eye of the Beholder. by Helen Zughaib. Gouache and ink on board. 15 x 20”. www.hzughaib.com. – International Visions Gallery. 2629 Connecticut Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20008. 202234-5112. www.inter-visions.com.
HILL RAG MID CITY DC EAST OF THE RIVER FAGON COMMUNITY GUIDES
Consciousness and the Development of Illness
Capital Community News, Inc. 224 7th Street, SE, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20003 202.543.8300 • www.capitalcommunitynews.com
By Dr. David Walls-Kaufman
So, you went to the doctor and he diagnosed you with, say, allergies. You may have asked him or her, “How did I get them?” And he or she shrugged their shoulders and said something like, “We find things like this just happen to people.” In spite of the sophistication and technological advancement of medicine, the cause of diseases and conditions continue to elude us. They do so to the extent that our scientists are exploring ways to improve our genes as they have done to our tomatoes and oranges. It will be ungodly expensive, it seems. But chiropractic philosophy and medical research have told us a great deal about the causes of disease. While medical practice has a very mechanistic philosophy, chiropractic, and medical researchers, are talking in a very holistic philosophy. When you ask me how does one get sick, I give you the answer emerging from this school: Psychological, chemical and physical stresses in your life overwhelm your body’s innate life-magic for managing itself. This life power is considerable, but you aren’t a god, you’re mortal. This life power is as much a thing of consciousness as it is cellular energy. This “consciousness” must have a model, or it would be completely adaptable and changeable. So, stress events wound your consciousness, and this in turn mars how your nervous system and brain are handling all the thousands of systems involved in your perfect health. Now, some of those systems are “off”, and you develop symptoms of allergy or high cholesterol or anything else that is a slip from optimum health. And so, to get at the cause of disease, we need to look beyond genes, which medical research has shown us are also expressions of our consciousness and nervous system, and look at ways to reduce stresses and then attack the chain of events in disease at the level of nervous system and consciousness. This is more our future than gadgets. Capitol Hill Chiropractic Visit www.Capitolhillchiropractic.com. 411 East Capitol St., SE 202.544.6035. Serving our neighborhood since 1985.
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KIDS & FAMILY
MANAGING EDITOR: Andrew Lightman andrew@hillrag.com CFO & ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Maria Carolina Lopez carolina@hillrag.com SCHOOL NOTES EDITOR: SUSAN BRAUN JOHNSON SCHOOLS@HILLRAG.COM KIDS & FAMILY NOTEBOOK EDITOR: KATHLEEN DONNER KATHLEEN.DONNER@GMAIL.COM
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ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT ART: Jim Magner • jjmagner@aol.com DINING: Celeste McCall • celeste@hillrag.com HIT THE CITY: Joylyn Hopkins • joylyn@joylynhopkins.com LITERATURE: Karen Lyon • klyon@folger.edu MOVIES: Mike Canning • mjcanning@verizon.net MUSIC: Jean-Keith Fagon • fagon@hillrag.com RETAIL THERAPY: Scott Fazzini • scott.fazzini@gmail.com THEATER: Barbara Wells • barchardwells@aol.com TRAVEL: Maggie Hall • whitby@aol.com THE WINE GUYS: Jon Genderson • jon@cellar.com
CALENDAR & BULLETIN BOARD HILL RAG, MIDCITY DC & EAST OF THE RIVER: CALENDAR EDITOR: Kathleen Donner calendar@hillrag.com, bulletinboard@hillrag.com
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Rindy O’Brien - Hill Gardener • rindyob@mac.com Derek Thomas • derek@thomaslandscapes.com Judith Capen • judith.capen@architravepc.com HomeStyle: Mark Johnson • mark@hillrag.com
NEWS & NEIGHBORHOOD REPORTS ANC6A, 6B, 6C, 6D:
Roberta Weiner • rweiner_us@yahoo.com • gwynjones@aol.com BARRACKS ROW: sharon@barracksrow.org H STREET LIFE: Elise Bernard • inked78@hotmail.com THE NOSE: thenose@hillrag.com LOGAN CIRCLE • mark@hillrag.com SHAW • Ralph Brabham: Ralph • ralphbrabham@yahoo.com BLOOMINGDALE: Eleanor Gourley • ecgourley@gmail.com 14TH & U: Catherine Finn • cathefinn@gmail.com ANC6B: GWYN JONES
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We welcome suggestions for stories. Send queries to andrew@hillrag.com. We are also interested in your views on community issues which are published in the Last Word. Please limit your comments to 250 words. Letters may be edited for space. Please include your name, address and phone number. Send Last Word submissions to lastword@hillrag.com. For employment opportunities email jobs@hillrag.com.
PUBLISHER: JEAN-KEITH FAGON • fagon@hillrag.com Copyright © 2012 by Capital Community News. All Rights Reserved.
capitalcommunitynews.com 12 ★ HillRag | January 2012
TO A HAPPY & PROSPEROUS 2012!
Thank you - your business made 2011 one of our best ever. THINKING OF SELLING? CALL US LOTS OF BUYERS + LOW INVENTORY = GOOD TIME TO SELL! FOR SALE: 5015 41st Street, NW Washington, DC 20016 $1,100,000 5 Bedrooms 4 1/2 baths, Den/office, parking, double lot (a REAL yard) and ample living space. A charming stone beauty.
UNDER CONTRACT 514 G ST NE, Washington, DC 20002 $839,000 Recently renovated and smack-dab in the greatest pocket on the Hill. Upstairs are 2 BR, 2 Full Baths plus Den. Lower Level boast renovated 1BR In-Law Suite, Stunning Kitchen & Dining room, Gorgeous Patio/Parking.
SOLD: 306 A ST SE, WDC 20003
Look Us Up on Facebook! Megan Shapiro (Cell) 202-329-4068 meg@megandgeorge.com
George Olson (Cell) 202-203-0339 george.olson@rmxtalk.com
www.megandgeorge.com Allegiance
The Norris Group capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 13
GO.SEE.DO. First Dogs: American Presidents and Their Pets The Newseum’s popular exhibit “First Dogs: American Presidents and Their Pets,” showcases some of the top dogs who have resided at the nation’s most prestigious address. On display are images of dogs belonging to 23 presidents, including the newest addition: Bo--a gift to the Obamas from the late Sen. Edward M. Kennedy. Some highlights include the fact that Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Scottish terrier, Fala, had his own press secretary; Warren G. Harding’s Airedale, Laddie Boy, had his own chair at Cabinet meetings and a book “written” by George H.W. Bush’s English Springer spaniel, Millie, sold more copies than Bush’s own book. Newseum admission is $21.95 plus tax; $17.95 for seniors, military and students; $12.95 for kids 7-18. Ages 6 and younger are free. 10% tickets ordered online. Tickets are good for two consecutive days. 555 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. 888-639-7386. newseum.org
President Lyndon B. Johnson sits in a chair with his dog as they both lean back and howl, on January 6, 1968. Johnson’s grandson Patrick Lyndon Nugent looks up at the President from a child’s walker chair. Photo: Yoichi Okamoto/Lyndon B. Johnson Library and Museum
Mid-Winter Family Festival: Celebrate Africa! This is the first of a two-part collaborative celebration of the many arts and cultures of Africa at the third annual National Textile Museum’s mid-winter family festival. The Anacostia Community Museum joins in this collaboration that offers African dancing, music, and folktales. Try on African fashions and make an African textile to take home. Join them for ongoing performances and activities. Saturday. Jan. 21, noon-4:00 p.m. Suitable for all ages. Free; no reservations required. Part 2, “What’s in Your Closet?” will take place April 21, 2012, 10:30 a.m. Textile Museum, 2320 S St. NW. 202-667-0441. textilemuseum.org
Young crafter at last year’s festival Photo: Courtesy of Textile Museum 14 ★ HillRag | January 2012
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Parade Hundreds of people will be marching in the 34th annual Ward 8 MLK Holiday Parade on Monday, January 16. Bands, community organizations, church groups, clubs and individuals are welcome to participate. The line-up will start at about 9:30 a.m. and the parade at 11:00 a.m. The parade starts at Friendship Southeast Technology Prep School, 645 Milwaukee Pl. SE and finishes at Leckie Elementary School, 4201 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave. SW. Anyone interested in marching, volunteering or donating, should go to the parade website. All are welcome. 202-236-8831. mlkholidayparadedc.org
Spelling Bee cast in rehearsal Photo: Courtesy of Little Theatre of Alexandria
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Ready, Set, Spell !!! Come see this multi-Tony Awardwinning musical comedy that puts audience members in the middle of the action when a tiny fictional town comes together for one of its most anticipated events of the year. Experience the pressure, angst, and joys of childhood as you follow the quirky adolescent outcasts (and some even quirkier adults) as they engage in this classic and contentious form of schoolhouse competition. Jan.14-Feb. 4. $19-$22. Little Theatre of Alexandria, 600 Wolfe St., (Old Town) Alexandria, VA. 703-683-0496. thelittletheatre.com
40 Free Events in 40 Days at CHAW At the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop, art is community...community is art. They have learned this over the past 40 years and look forward to what the next 40 years will teach us. They invite the CHAW community to explore how art continually engages, inspires, informs, and excites as they celebrate this moment in their evolving story. From Jan. 4-Feb. 12, CHAW will host 40 free events including classes, workshops, concerts, and more! Be their guest at as many of these 40 free events as you are able. Pre-registration is required for some events. Register online at chaw.org or call 202-547-6839. Registrants will automatically be enrolled in a drawing for a $50 CHAW gift certificate. Find a comprehensive listing of CHAW’s January free events in this month’s calendar under Classes, Tours And Talks Around The Neighborhood.
Art instructor Ellen Cornett Photo: Courtesy of CHAW capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 15
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JANUARY
HillRag CALENDAR MLK DAY RELATED EVENTS Join the Student Sit-Ins at the Greensboro Lunch Counter. Most Sundays at 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 3:00 PM, and 4:30 PM. No shows Jan. 15. Also Jan. 7 and 14 at 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 3:00 PM, 4:30 PM; Jan. 20, 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM. Meet a Civil Rights activist in 1960, just after the Greensboro student sit-in began. Take part in a training session based on an actual 1960s manual and prepare for your first sit-in. Would you have the courage to fight for justice during the Civil Rights movement? These 15-20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories. For all ages. Free. Just walk in. National Museum of American History. 202-633-1000. americanhistory.si.edu
“Militants in the Movement” Exhibition at Northeast Library. Jan. 3-31. A photo exhibit with biographical information of civil rights activists in America including Septima Clark, the grandmother of the civil rights movement; Reverend Fred Shuttlesworth, co-founder of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and advocate for the downtrodden and needy of all colors; Joan Baez, American folk singer, songwriter, musician and activist in the fields of human rights, peace and environmental justice; Stokely Carmichael and others. Northeast Library, 330 Seventh St. NE. 202-698-3320. dclibrary.org/ northeast Annual Smithsonian Martin Luther King Jr. Program. Jan 13, 7:00 PM. Baird Auditorium, National Museum of Natural History, Constitution Ave. at 10th St. NW.
MLK Film Festival at Frederick Douglass House. Jan. 14, 15 and 16, 11:00 AM-1:00 PM. The Eyes on the Prize film series will be screened over the course of the three days and end with a lecture by historian C.R. Gibbs concerning Dr. Kings’s interest in Africa. Free. 1900 Anacostia Dr. SE. 202426-5961. nps.gov/frdo
To the Mountaintop-The Words of Dr Martin Luther King Jr. Jan. 14, 15, and 16, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM, and 4:00 PM. Experience a stirring and inspirational tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as actor Xavier Carnegie presents selections from some of Dr. King’s most powerful and compelling speeches and sermons in a combination of live performance, historic photographs, and audio recordings. Free. American History Museum, Flag Hall, 2nd Floor, Center, 14th St. and Constitution Ave. NW. americanhistory.si.edu
National Symphony Orchestra’s “A Mighty Stream”. Jan. 7, 5:00 PM. The National Symphony Orchestra and Neworks Productions presents “A Mighty Stream,” a celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. and the American Freedom Movement through music, video, and spoken word. Featuring artists from the Voices of Inspiration and conducted by Rev. Nolan Williams, Jr. Special guest performers include Shirley Murdock, Byron Nichols, and Frédéric Yonnet. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. $10-$15. 202-889-5901. thearcdc.org
Visit the MLK Memorial. On Jan. 16, 3:00 PM, interpretative talk “Born to the Arc of the Moral Universe” and at 5:00 PM, “Born MLK-A Portrait of Early Influences”. For both talks, meet at the bookstore. Dr. King championed a movement that draws fully from the deep well of America’s potential for freedom, opportunity, and justice. His vision of America is captured in his message of hope and possibility for a future anchored in dignity, sensitivity, and mutual respect; a message that challenges each of us to recognize that America’s true strength lies in its diversity of talents. 1964 Independence Ave. SW. mlkmemorial.org MLK Day of Service. Jan 16. 11:00 AM-3:30 PM. G St. NW, between Nineth and 10th sts. 202-727-7925. serve. dc.gov
Greater DC Cares Volunteer Opportunities. On Jan. 16, Greater DC Cares will continue the proud tradition of honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the role of community service by engaging nearly 2,000 corporate and community volunteers of all ages and backgrounds in service projects throughout Washington, DC, Maryland & Virginia. Join them as they remember his legacy and commitment to service by volunteering with Greater DC Cares! Call 202-777-4441 or register online at greaterdccares.org. King Across the Ages Concert at National Cathedral. Jan. 16, 2:00 PM. Their annual event celebrates his legacy through service projects, interfaith dialogue, and performances of our city’s rich music and dance heritage. Featured groups are the Malcolm X Dancers & Drummers, St. Augustine Gospel Choir, poet Tony Keith, Urban Nation H.I.P.—H.O.P. Choir, Children of the Gospel Choir, and CityDance with singers from School Without Walls. No reservations required. Admission is a donation of either a non-perishable canned food item or a new children’s book. Washington National Cathedral (intersection of Massachusetts and Wisconsin aves. NW). 202-537-6200. nationalcathedral.org
National Symphony Orchestra’s “A Mighty Stream”. Photo: Scott Suchman 16 ★ HillRag | January 2012
Wreath-Laying at the Lincoln Memorial. Jan. 16, 1:00 PM. The National Park Service will place a wreath at the
Lincoln Memorial, on the steps where Dr. King gave his 1963 speech. The recitation of the “I Have a Dream” speech will be presented by students of a Washington, DC school. 202-4266895. nps.gov/linc
MLK Day: Not Just Another Day Off. Jan. 16, 11:00-1:00 PM. Combining dramatic readings of speeches and poetry, Folger Shakespeare Library celebrates the spirit of Martin Luther King Jr. with this free and familyfriendly event. Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 E. Capitol St. SE. 202544-4600. folger.edu Kennedy Center “Let Freedom Ring” Concert. Jan 16, 6:00 PM. The Kennedy Center and Georgetown University present Let Freedom Ring, featuring Bobby McFerrin and the Let Freedom Ring Choir in a musical tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Free tickets available starting at 5:00 PM. kennedycenter.org “Deacons for Defense” Film at Northeast Library. Jan. 23, 6:30 PM. Film was inspired by a true story that occurred in Bogalusa, Louisiana in 1965. The Deacons, an all black defense group, organized to protect themselves from ongoing humiliation by the white power structure in their town. The film stars Forest Whitaker and Jonathan Silverman. Northeast Library, 330 Seventh St. NE. 202-698-3320. dclibrary. org/northeast Alexandria’s Watson Reading Room. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM. Visitors should call in advance for holiday hours. Located next door to the Alexandria Black History Museum, the Watson Reading Room is a non-circulating research repository focusing on issues of African-American history and culture. Black History Museum staff and volunteers are available (by appointment) to work with visitors of all ages who are researching AfricanAmerican history. Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe St., Alexandria, VA. 703-746-4356. alexandriava. gov/historic NAACP: A Century in the Fight for Freedom Online Exhibition. The NAACP: A Century in the Fight for Freedom exhibition presents a retrospec-
Y
Boka Girls will be performing at Remembrance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Photo: Courtesy of CHAW Remembrance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Jan. 17, 7:00 PM. The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgendered Arts Consortium in partnership with the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop will offer a Remembrance of Martin Luther King, Jr. at Capitol Hill Presbyterian Church, Fourth and Independence Ave. SE. Free. 202-547-6839. dcglbtarts.org
tive of the major personalities, events, and achievements that shaped the NAACP’s history during its first 100 years. myloc.gov/Exhibitions/naacp
MUSIC AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD HR 57 Weekly Jam Sessions. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 8:00 PM-midnight. Since 1993 HR-57 has provided a place where aspiring musicians gather to learn the history and cultures of the genres of jazz and blues. It’s a venue for the exchange of ideas and information between aspiring and professional musicians, students, aficionados and the general public. $8. (Tuesday, draft beer $3.) 816 H St. NE. 202-253-0044. hr57.org DJ Sparr at the Atlas. Jan. 6, 8:00 PM. Baltimore native D.J. Sparr is an accomplished electric guitarist and composer who has performed concertos with the Filarmonica Arturo Toscanini in Italy, the Alabama Symphony, the Dayton Philharmonic, the Cabrillo Festival of New Music, and the Great Noise Ensemble. Mark Swed of the Los Angeles Times says, “D. J. Sparr was a terrific soloist.” and the Santa Cruz Sentinel writes, “Soloist D.J. Sparr wowed an enthusiastic audience…Sparr’s guitar sang in a near-human voice.” $15-$25. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. 202-3997993. atlasarts.org
18 ★ HillRag | January 2012
Heavenly Revelations at the Folger. Jan 6-7. The visionary repertoire of Hildegard von Bingen--the 12th-century mystic, nun, and advisor to popes and emperors--is presented along with later works performed in the 13th-century by the elite of Notre Dame Cathedral and the French court. With period strings and the renowned voices of Anonymous 4. $30-$50. Folger Shakespeare Theatre, 201 E. Capitol St. SE. 202-544-7077. folger.edu MacGillivray at Corner Store. Jan. 6, 8:00 PM. “MacGillivray is a singer of exquisite depth and range, from breathless operatic swoon, lonely as the ocean, to tortured tragic heroine via some wonderful Gaelic incantations. Her music swoops from barely-there minimalism to an oddly restrained form of catharsis, everything reaches a peak as she loops her vocals and allows them to swarm around the room. $20. Corner Store, 900 So. Carolina Ave. SE. 202544-5807. cornerstorearts.org Joy Ike at Corner Store. Jan. 8, 7:00 PM. Pittsburgh-based singer/songwriter Joy Ike has been compared to the likes of Corinne Bailey Rae, Norah Jones, and Regina Spektor. Her honest, bittersweet songwriting has earned her the title of Pittsburgh City Paper’s “Best Solo Artist” for the fourth year in a row, landing a spot on the Lilith Fair Tour and scoring a write-up and radio spot on NPR’s All Things Considered. Her music has continually been noted for its lyrical depth- addressing the human condition, thoughts on love, and the search for God in a very tangible way. $15.
Art. Culture. Connection.
Atlas Presents
2012 Performance Series
Imani Winds Ensemble
New Music at the Atlas Performances from contemporary music artists and ensembles known for their innovative and unique approaches in new music Starts January 6 Jazz at the Atlas Performances from the best emerging and established jazz artists Starts January 11
Ben Allison Quartet
Dissonance Dance Theatre
Michael Lewis
INTERSECTIONS: A New America Arts Festival 12 days of music, dance, theatre, spoken word, film and family friendly programming February 23-March 11 Theatre for the Very Young New presenting series for children ages 1 - 5 engaging them in the magic of theatre Starts March 20
Atlas Performing Arts Center 1333 H Street NE Washington, DC 20002
For tickets and full schedule call 202.399.7993 ext 2 or go to www.atlasarts.org
capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 19
Corner Store, 900 So. Carolina Ave. SE. 202-544-5807. cornerstorearts.org Chris Byars Octet Featuring Freddie Redd at the Atlas. Jan. 11, 8:00 PM. The Chris Byars Octet has performed regularly since 1998 with New York’s Smalls jazz club as its home base, featuring Byars’s original arrangements and compositions played by the finest musicians on the jazz scene, including alto saxophonist Jerry Dodgion and vocalist Sasha Dobson. $15-$25. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. 202-399-7993. atlasarts.org Robby Hecht with Liz Longley at Ebenezers. Jan 12, 7:30-10:00 PM. Robby Hecht is a romantic realist. He writes melodic and captivating songs that don’t shy away from the complexity of human relationships and delivers them with a smooth tenor that evokes both sorrow and hope. $15. Ebenezers Coffeehouse, 201 F St. NE. 202-5586900. ebenezerscoffeehouse.com Stephen Simmons at Corner Store. Jan. 13, 8:00 PM. Stephen Simmons hails from Woodbury, a small town in central Tennessee that’s known for Sunday socials, tent revivals and palm readings. After ten years in Nashville, Stephen is, in many ways, still that Church going kid - humble, goodnatured, but more than a little dark - but as a songwriter and a road dog, his revelations are as exhilarating as a Tilt-a-Whirl. $20. Corner Store, 900 So. Carolina Ave. SE. 202-544-5807. cornerstorearts.org Dan Roberts Trio at the Atlas. Jan. 18, 8:00 PM. Dan Roberts is a pianist, arranger, and composer living in Washington, DC. $15-$25. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. 202-399-7993. atlasarts.org
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Michael Knox CD Release with Rene Moffatt at Ebenzers. Jan. 19, 7:30-10:00 PM. Michael Knox is a singer/songwriter based out of Northern Virginia. He recently finished recording his debut album with acclaimed musician/producer Kurtis Parks. His music can be described as upbeat acoustic pop/rock with thoughtful lyrics and an engaging stage presence. An honest writer and performer, he looks forward to playing his album live and sharing his love for music with people. $5. Ebenezers Coffeehouse, 201 F St. NE. 202-558-6900. ebenezerscoffeehouse.com Opera Lafayette Le Roi et le Fermier at the Atlas. Jan. 20, 7:30 PM. Le Roi et le fermier was both a popular and controversial opera in its day, heralded for a storm scene bridging the mood of Act I to the nighttime divertissement in Act II, and for its frank treatment of class issues culminating in Act III. $20. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. 202-399-7993. atlasarts.org The Sea, The Sea with Barnaby Bright and John Schmitt at Ebenezers. Jan. 26, 7:30-10:00 PM. Two voices that blend like smoke and air. Like night and a whisper. Two distinct award-winning songwriters that meet in the mercury, collide and create emotionally spare music. Simple and true. $10. Ebenezers Coffeehouse, 201 F St. NE. 202-558-6900. ebenezerscoffeehouse.com
20 ★ HillRag | January 2012
The
Has a New Look! The Hill Rag has installed ten new boxes along Pennsylvania Avenue, Barracks Row and Market Row. These are the first of many. Know a good place for one of our boxes? Let us know. Email: distribution@hillrag.com Thank You, The Hill Rag
capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 21
Imani Wind Ensemble at the Atlas. Jan 27., 8:00 PM. More than North America’s premier wind quintet, Imani Winds has established itself as one of the most successful chamber music ensembles in the United States. Since 1997, the Grammy nominated quintet has taken a unique path, carving out a distinct presence in the classical music world with its dynamic playing, culturally poignant programming, genre-blurring collaborations, and inspirational outreach programs. $15-$25. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. 202-399-7993. atlasarts.org
The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Parade Committee Invites you to participate in the Annual
DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. Holiday Parade Monday, January 16, 2012 Lineup will start at 8:30 a.m. Parade begins at 11:00 a.m. Grand Marshals Professional Boxers Lamont Peterson (WBA and IBF World Champion) and Anthony Peterson
Parade will begin at Friendship Public Charter School 645 Milwaukee Place SE Parade will end at Leckie Elementary School 4201 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave SW For more information call (877) 576-5421 or visit www.MLKHolidayParadeDC.org
In partnership with the Office of Ward 8 Councilmember Marion Barry MEDIA SPONSOR
www.facebook.com/ mlkHolidayParadeDC
@MLKDCParade
22 ★ HillRag | January 2012
Jesse Carolina & the Hot Mess at Corner Store. Jan. 27, 8:00 PM. Jessy Carolina & The Hot Mess is a New York City based ensemble specializing in early American roots and jazz music from the late 1800’s to the 1930’s. The group features Jessy Carolina on vocals and washboard, Jerron “Blind Boy” Paxton on piano, banjo, and vocals, Jordan Hyde on guitar, Jay Sanford on bass, Mario J. Maggio on clarinet and saxophone, an Satoru Ohashi on trumpet and trombone. $15. Corner Store, 900 So. Carolina Ave. SE. 202-544-5807. cornerstorearts.org Paolo Pandolfo, viola da gamba at the Library of Congress. Jan. 28, 2:00 PM. If you missed Paolo Pandolfo’s mesmerizing Coolidge concert last February, you’ll want to clear your calendar for his return, in a solo recital of J. S. Bach’s viola da gamba suites and “marvelously intricate, inventive and playful” works by Carl Friedrich Abel. Free. Coolidge Auditorium, Thomas Jefferson Building, First St. and Independence Ave., SE. loc.gov Musical Monday Concert Series: The US Army Brass Quintet. Jan. 30, 8:00 PM. Capitol Hill United Methodist Church, 421 Seward Sq. SE. 202-5461000. chumc.net Jazz Night (and fish fry) in Southwest. Fridays, 6:00-9:00 PM. Every Friday night. Expect a large, fun and friendly crowd. Westminster Presbyterian Church, 400 I St. SW (Fourth and I, south side of intersection). The cover is $5. Children are welcome and free under 16 years old. 202-484-7700. westminsterdc.org/jazz Blue Monday Blues. Mondays, 6:00-9:00 PM. Westminster Presbyterian Church. Local musicians perform, and the Southwest Catering Company provides a fish fry from 5:30-8:30 PM. $5/general; free/children under 16. Modestly priced food. 400 I St. SW. 202-484-7700. westminsterdc.org/blues
THEATER AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD Hedda Gabler by Henrik Ibsen. Jan. 6-29. Experience the Ibsen classic of love and ennui featuring a controversial female protagonist. Is Hedda a feminist heroine, a victim of circumstance, or a manipulative villain? You be the judge. $25-$27. H Street Playhouse, 1365 H St. NE. 703-683-2824. scenatheater.org Scientist Turned Comedian Timm Lee at the Atlas. Jan. 7, 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Returning to the Atlas after a sold out run in 2011! This show is a cerebral blend of stand-up comedy with science. Tim Lee is a comedian with a Ph.D. who’s become an internet sensation with more than 4 million views of his YouTube videos and a feature in the NY Times. $20. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. 202-399-7993. atlasarts.org Tom Stoppard’s “Arcadia” at St Marks. Jan. 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 27 and 28; Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 4:00 p.m. St. Marks, 301 A St. SE. 202-546-9670. stmarksplayers.org
Source Restaurant Chef Scott Drewno. Photo: Courtesy of Hill Center Chinese Dumpling Master Class at Hill Center. Jan. 17, 7:00-9:00 PM. In celebration of the Chinese Lunar New Year The Source Restaurant’s star Chef Scott Drewno will teach class participants how to make tiny pork belly dumplings as well as chive dumplings. $85. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.
Deedee Stewart in “Dirty Barbie & Other Girlhood Tales”. Jan.14, 8:00 PM; Jan. 15, 4:00 PM. Written and performed by Denise Stewart. Dirty Barbie and Other Girlhood Tales is a storytelling show about the author’s strange southern childhood. With the help of her alter ego, Dirty Barbie, Denise puts the “fun” back in “dysfunctional” as she spins tales on scarlet fever, scotch over ice, and girls gone wild. $25 donation. Corner Store, 900 So. Carolina Ave. SE. 202-544-5807. cornerstorearts.org Shakespeare Theatre Company Actor’s Monologue Workshop. Jan 13-Feb. 14, 10:00 AM-noon. Auditions approaching? Gain insight and skills for both contemporary and classical monologues under the guidance of award-winning, Shakespeare Theatre Company veteran actor, Floyd King (most recently seen in The Heir Apparent). Prior experience and/or training is recommended for this course. Students should come prepared with a two-minute Shakespeare monologue in verse and/or a contemporary monologue. $225. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org Shakespeare Theatre Company Voice and Text. Jan. 23Mar. 12, 7:00-9:00 PM. Explore the integration of voice and language while deepening your understanding of the creative power of your own voice. Open to actors and nonactors alike, students will use a broad range of vocal and physical exercises to increase their ability to safely and effectively utilize an expressive, powerful and fully embodied voice onstage or in daily life. $360. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org Shakespeare Theatre Company Creating Characters. Jan. 24-Mar. 13, 7:00-9:00 PM. Explore the essential components of creating a fully-realized character through a mixture of script and acting exercises. This course will provide effective tools and sound techniques to increase flexibility and choice in the achievement of any interpre-
tation of a role. Open to students of all skill levels. $360. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org Red at Arena Stage. Jan. 20-Mar. 4. A visceral, “superbly taut” (Chicago Tribune) battle of wills, Red drops you squarely inside the world of painter Mark Rothko and sets your heart pounding. At the height of his career, Rothko struggles with a series of grand-scale paintings for NY’s elite Four Seasons restaurant. When his new assistant challenges his artistic integrity, Rothko must confront his own demons or be crushed by the ever-changing art world he helped create. 202-488-3300. arenastage.org Elephant Roon at Arena Stage. Jan.20-Feb. 26. Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater’s Arlene and Robert Kogod Cradle will be transformed into a mystical place of wonder and amusement, with a dash of ridiculousness, with Elephant Room, featuring semi-pro conjurors Dennis Diamond, Daryl Hannah and Louie Magic. Fresh from the Philadelphia Live Arts Festival, Diamond, Hannah and Magic bring their absurdist magic show to D.C. under the direction of Paul Lazar. $40. Arena Stage Kogod Cradle. 202-488-3300. arenastage.org
movies, popular songs, speeches, and sermons. But who translated it, and what made this particular translation so influential? Drawing on the deep resources of the Folger and Bodleian Library at the University of Oxford as well as the Harry Ransom Center at the University of Texas, Manifold Greatness tells the little-known story of one of the most widely read and printed books in the history of the English language—which marks its 400th anniversary in 2011. Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 E. Capitol St. SE. 202-544-7077. folger.edu
LITERARY EVENTS AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD Writing a Family Food Memoir at Hill Center. Jan. 4, 11 and 18, 1:00-4:00 PM. Transform your memories of Grandad’s barbecue sauce or Mom’s shortbread into narratives embellished with recipes. We’ll explore cuisines you consider part of personal and cultural history, how to research regional culinary history and strategies for recovering or recreating family recipes. $160. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org
The Gaming Table (originally titled The Basset Table) at the Folger. Jan. 24-Mar. 4. The thrills of the gaming table stylishly play out against the eccentricities of English manners in this handsome comedy. Lady Reveller, an independent widow with a penchant for gambling, leads a nightly card game, which bankrupts some and entertains all. $30-$65. Folger Shakespeare Theatre, 201 E. Capitol St. SE. 202-544-7077. folger.edu
Monique Truong, Allegra Goodman, & Myla Goldberg at the Folger. Jan. 9. 7:30 PM. Truong, author of Bitter in the Mouth, Goodman, author The Cookbook Collector, and Goldberg, whose first novel, Bee Season, was a New York Times Notable Book, read from their works. $15. Folger Elizabethan Theatre, 201 E. Capitol St. SE. 202-544-7077. folger.edu
Haiku to Hip Hop Open Mic at Southwest Library. This new program begins Jan. 11, 6:30-8:00 PM. and repeats every second Wednesday. Calling all aspiring lyricists, poets and performers: come rhyme, sing, recite poetry, and perform monologues. Share your artistic gifts with our Southwest community! Southwest Library, 900 Wesley Pl. SW. 202-724-4752. dclibrary.org/southwest
Travel Blogging at Hill Center. Jan. 10, 1:00-4:00 PM. Create a travel blog and dynamic postings to report a recent journey or lay groundwork for a future trip. Writers with a current travel blog learn tips from a travel writing expert on how to craft literate energy in travel postings. $60. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-5494172. hillcenterdc.org
EXHIBITIONS AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD I Love Lucy: An American Legend. Through Jan. 28. In celebration of the sixtieth anniversary of the show’s debut, the Library of Congress presents I Love Lucy: An American Legend. This exhibition explores the show’s history through the Ball and Arnaz family scrapbooks as well as photographs, scripts, printed and manuscript music, and other documents from the Library of Congress. Performing Arts Reading Room, First Floor, James Madison Building. loc.gov Mail Call at the Postal Museum. Open indefinitely. Explore the history of the military postal system through Mail Call, the newest exhibition at the Smithsonian Institution National Postal Museum. Through Mail Call, visitors can discover how military mail communication has changed throughout history. National Postal Museum, 2 Massachusetts Ave. NE. 202-633-5555. postalmuseum.si.edu
• • • • • • •
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Southeast Library Book Sale. Jan. 14, 10:30 AM-2:00 PM. 403 Seventh St. SE. 202-698-3377. dclibrary.org/ southeast Books and Beyond at LOC. Jan. 18, noon. Kenneth D. Ackerman discusses “J. Edgar Hoover & the Library of Congress” based on his book “Young J. Edgar: Hoover, the Red Scare, and the Assault on Civil Liberties” in the West Dining Room. 202-707-5221. loc.gov The Writer’s Center: Tapping the Creative Well—Poetry. Jan. 19-Feb. 9, 6:30-9:00 PM. Through a series of exercises and anecdotes about writing gathered from poets and those who write about the creative process, participants will learn ways to draw closer to their individual sources of inspiration. We’ll discuss new work and where it might be headed every week. If you would like to discuss the source of inspiration for one of your poems, please bring 10 copies of the poem to the first class. $195. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-5494172. hillcenterdc.org
Unbuilt Washington at the National Building Museum. Through May 28. Unbuilt Washington features unrealized proposals for noteworthy architectural and urban design projects in Washington, D.C., and its environs from the 1790s to the present. 401 F St. NW. 202-272-2448. nbm.org CHAW’s Contemporary Photography Exhibition. Jan. 7Feb. 2. Opening reception, Jan. 7, 5:00-7:00 PM. Capitol Hill Arts Workshop, 545 Seventh St. SE. 202-547-6839. chaw.org
Creating Characters That Walk Off the Page. Jan 21 and 28, noon-2:30 PM. This mini course is all about your characters. How do you make them strong, vibrant, believable? Distinct from another character without relying on physical description? We will explore drawing up in depth character sketches, journaling as your character(s) and completing writing exercises in the voice of your character, among other techniques. We will also read and de-mystify characters created by published authors. $100. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-5494172. hillcenterdc.org
Manifold Greatness: The Creation and Afterlife of the King James Bible. Through Jan. 15. The words of the 1611 King James Bible still echo in books, poems,
Northeast Library Book Club. Jan. 23, 7:00 PM. Make the Impossible Possible by Bill Strickland is the true story of an at-risk student in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 23
whose life was forever altered by an art teacher in a public school. Strickland, in turn, started his own school for at-risk students, the Manchester Bidwell Center. Most of the school’s students graduate from high school and college and go on to successful careers. Northeast Library, 330 Seventh St. NE. 202-698-3320. dclibrary. org/northeast Books and Beyond at LOC. Jan. 26, noon. Mark Stein discusses and sign his new book “How the States Got Their Shapes Too: The People Behind the Borderlines” at noon in the Mumford Room. 202-7075221. loc.gov
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40 Free (January) Events in 40 Days at CHAW. Pre-registration is required for some events. To register, visit chaw.org and click on 40 Free Events Link. CHAW, 545 Seventh St. SE. 202-547-6839. chaw.org. Darkroom Portraits, Jan.4, 7:00-8:30 PM; Animal Mask Making and Performance, Jan 7, 10:00-11:30 AM; CHAW’s 6th Annual Contemporary Photography Exhibition Opening, Jan 7, 5:00-7:00 PM; Sculptural Birdbath, Jan 9, 7:00-8:30 PM; Think Flat, Think 3D, Jan 11, 7:00-8:30 PM; Building a Vocal Community ®: Finding Your Voice, Jan 11, 7:00-9:00 PM; Nana’s Nano Vision: An artist’s search for the beauty of the DNA molecule, Jan 12, 7:00-8:30 PM; Tango Practica, Jan 13, 7:00-9:30 PM; Bokamoso Youth in Performance, Jan 14, 6:00 PM; All Points West Chamber Music Ensemble, Jan 14, 11:00 AM; Mural Painting–Open House, Jan 14, 10:00 AM-noon; Remembrance of Martin Luther King Jr. at Capitol Hill Presbyterian Church (4th & Independence SE), Jan 17, 7:00 PM; Jewelry Making for Kids, Jan 17, 6:00-7:30 PM; Jewelry Making for Adults, Jan 17, 7:30-9:00 PM; Action=Art/ Art=Action, Jan 18, 7:00-8:30 PM; The Blue--Collar Artist Navigates the Industry of Art Part I-Overview, Jan 18, 7:00-8:30 PM; Midnight in Paris: George Braque, Pablo Picasso and Cubism, Jan 19, 7:00-8:30 PM; Drawing Nature, Jan 21, 10:00-11:15 AM; Family Sock Hop, Jan 21, 6:00-7:30 PM; Guitar Chord Melody, Jan 23, 7:008:30 PM; Cards, Candids and Collage Part I, Jan 23, 7:00-8:30 PM; Cards, Candids and Collage Part II, Jan 24, 7:00-8:30 PM; The Blue-Collar Artist Navigates the Industry of Art Part II- Developing Tools of the Trade, Jan 25, 7:00-8:30 PM; The World Outside the Studio, Jan 25, 7:00-8:30 PM; Midnight in Paris: Matisse—Drawing with Scissors, Jan 26, 7:00-8:30 PM; The Art of Snail Mail, Jan 27, 7:00-8:30 PM; 26. Space Activation Lab, Jan 28, 1:00-2:15 PM; Open Figure Drawing, Jan 28, 1:304:00 PM; Moorland Ensemble Chamber Music Concert, Jan 30, 7:00 PM; 29. Creative Clay Tile and Coaster Making, Jan 30, 6:458:45 PM; A Day in the Life of a Forensic Artist, Jan 31, 7:00-8:30 PM. Expressive Drawing with Teaching Artist Ellen Cornett. Jan. 8, 15, 22 and 29, 2:004:00 PM. Join teaching artist Ellen Cornett for four creative Sunday afternoons of
challenging and exciting drawing projects. Using a variety of supplied materials students will expand their repertoire of drawing methods and techniques through a series of fun exercises. Some drawing experience is suggested but not necessary. $160. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org Shelly Steitz Stitching Class at Hill Center. Jan. 10-Feb. 14, 6:30-8:30 PM. In this six-week introductory course students will learn basic knitting stitches which they will incorporate into their own knitting projects. Students will have the opportunity to choose their own project and get one-on-one instruction on how to complete their own handmade item. Materials will be provided for instruction at the first class, after which students will be asked to bring their own materials. $125 ($25 drop-in at door). Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org Byte Back Office Track at Hill Center. Mondays and Wednesdays, 6:30-8:30 PM. Office Track delivers job skills with computer file management; word processing with MS WORD; spreadsheets and graphing with MS EXCEL and introductions to OUTLOOK and POWERPOINT. Prerequisite: PC Beginners or placement test (to be taken at Byte Back-call 202-529-3395 to make arrangements.). Free. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org Capitol Talks at the US Capitol. Jan. 10, 17 and 24, 1:00 PM. William Allen, Historian Emeritus, discusses changes in the Capitol building using the writings of Thomas U. Walter and Montgomery C. Meigs. Pick up a pass at the North Information Desk on the lower level of the Capitol Visitor Center and meet at the entrance to Exhibition Hall for this 45-minute program. visitthecapitol.gov Tour the Jefferson Building of the Library of Congress. Monday-Saturday: 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM, and 3:30 PM. (no Saturday 3:30 PM tour). Ground Floor Visitors’ Theater, Thomas Jefferson Building, First St. and Independence Ave., SE. 202-707-8000. loc.gov
SPORTS, DANCE AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Washington Capitals Hockey. Jan. 3, 11, 13, 15, 17 and 24; 7:00 PM. Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. 202-266-2277. capitals. nhl.com Washington Wizards Basketball. Jan. 1, 6, 8, 10, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 25 and 30; 7:00 PM. Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. 202-397-SEAT. nba.com/wizards Capitol Hill Yoga at Hill Center. Yoga Basics: A 4-week Introduction to Yoga; Jan.7, 14, 21 and 28, 10:30-11:45 AM. $72. Beyond the Basics: A 3-Week Series; Jan. 18, 25 and Feb. 1, 6:15-7:45 PM. $54. Pilates: A 4 Week Series; Jan 8, 15,
capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 25
Happy Birthday! To Erin and Stella Frias
22 and 29, 10:45-11:45 AM. $72. Returning Home: An Introduction to Meditation; Jan. 5, 12, 19 and 26, 6:30-7:45 PM. $60. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202549-4172. hillcenterdc.org Full Moon Hike at Arboretum. January 8, 9, & 10; 7:00-9:00 PM and February 6, 7, & 8; 7:00-9:00 PM. This four-mile-long, brisk walk is a magical trip through moonlit gardens, meadows and woods. Clear winter nights provide especially bright skies. Not recommended for children under 16. $22. Registration required online at usna.usda. gov or by calling 202-245-4521. There are two entrances: 3501 New York Ave. NE and 24th & R sts. NE, off of Bladensburg Rd. Free Tango Lesson at CHAW. Jan. 13, 7:00-9:30 PM. Once a month CHAW hosts an early evening free práctica. The idea of this practica is to provide tango dancers of all levels an opportunity to practice, collaborate, and learn in a collective space. Capitol Hill Arts Workshop, 545 Seventh St. SE. 202-547-6839. chaw.org Dance Party-Gina DeSimone and The Moaners. Jan. 20, 8:00 PM. Start with Gina DeSimone’s rich sexy voice, the energy and pinpoint harmonies of Pat Quinn, Ron Goad’s foundation of rock solid rhythm, and blend ingredients together for a mix of eccentric, eclectic sounds from a range of eras. Style is no object. Blues, Swing, or Classic Rock, The Moaners diverse backgrounds come together to offer a full night of dance party fun. $15. Corner Store, 900 So. Carolina Ave. SE. 202-544-5807. cornerstorearts.org
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Rumsey Pool. Public swim, Monday-Friday, 6:30-9:00 AM; 1:00-5:00 PM and 6:30-9:00 PM. Public swim, Saturday, 1:00-5:00 PM. Public swim, Sunday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM. 635 North Carolina Ave. SE. 202-724-4495. dpr.dc.gov Capitol Hill Tai Chi Study Group. Saturday mornings (except when it’s below zero or very inclement weather), meeting to teach and practice Tai Chi, 8:00-10:00 AM. All styles and abilities welcome. First hour form practice, second hour the martial practice of Push Hands. Lincoln Park. Dr. David Walls-Kaufman, a Capitol Hill chiropractor, conducts this class every Saturday morning. Please dress comfortably. Free. East Capitol St. between 11th and 13th Sts. 202-544-6035.
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Kung Fu and Tai Chi at the Historical Society. Every Saturday (rain or shine). Kung Fu, noon; Tai Chi, 1:00 PM. Suitable for all ages. Kung Fu is a broad term that is used to describe all martial arts of Chinese origin. The ancient art of Tai Chi is a style of Kung Fu that emphasizes internal energy. Free. No RSVP required. Historical Society of Washington, DC, 801 K St. NW (Mount Vernon Square). 202-383-1850. historydc. org East Potomac Tennis Center (indoor courts). Open daily. Indoor courts available year round at 70 degrees. 7:00 AM10:00 PM. Winter indoor court fees are $17-$36/hour depending on the time. 1090 Ohio Dr. SW (East Potomac Park).
202-554-5962. eastpotomactennis.com Southeast Tennis and Learning Center (indoor courts). Open daily; Monday through Saturday, 9:00 AM-9:00 PM; Sunday, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM. Four indoor courts. Six outdoor courts. Summer hourly fees at $6 to $10 for adults. Kids 17 and under play for free. 701 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202645-6242. dpr.dc.gov/dpr
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Dance Studio Classes at St. Marks. Founded more than 20 years ago, the St. Mark’s Dance Studio has been training dancers primarily in ballet and jazz. Classes for both children and adults, beginner and advanced, are available and open to both parish members and the community. Private ballroom lessons are also available for wedding parties. For more information, contact Rosie Brooks at 202-543-0054. stmarks.net
CIVIC LIFE RFK Stadium Community Outreach Meeting. Jan. 9, 7:00 PM. During this meeting, they will discuss upcoming RFK/ Armory events, the 2012 quarterly stakeholders meeting schedule, opening of the RFK Skate Park, and other community matters. Please RSVP before noon on Jan. 4 by calling Patricia Wiseman at 202-6081100. RFK Stadium Media Room. See the Supreme Court in Session. Jan. 9, 10, 11, 17 and 18. Be in line by 7:007:30 AM for seats for ordinary cases. There is a second line for people who want to view the court in session for 3 minutes. Free. One First St. NE. 202-479-3211. supremecourt.gov M Street SE/SW Transportation Study Public Information Meeting. Jan. 12, 6:30-8:00 PM. DDOT will hold the first in a series of public information meetings for the M St. SE/SW Transportation Study at the Westminster Presbyterian Church, 400 I St. SW. For more information, contact Ms. Colleen Hawkinson of DDOT at 202671-2228 or colleen.hawkinson@dc.gov. Hearing on the “District of Columbia Community Schools Incentive Amendment Act of 2011.” Jan. 31, 4:30 PM in Room 500, John A. Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. Individuals and representatives of organizations who wish to testify are asked to call Priscilla McIver, Administrative Assistant to the Committee of the Whole, at 202-724-8196 e-mail at pford@dccouncil.us. Community Office Hours with Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Wells. First Thursday of the month in Southwest and third Thursday of the month on H St. NE; both are 8-9:30 AM. All Ward 6 residents encouraged to come out and meet with Wells and members of his staff. 202-7248072. tommywells.org
JOHNSON LAW GROUP A LAW FIRM ON CAPITOL HILL Comprehensive legal services for individuals and businesses
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January 5-8, 2012 Opening Night Reception Thursday, January 5 Friday, January 6, 2012 “Thirty Years of Flowers, Six First Ladies” Guest Speaker: Nancy Clarke Former Chief Florist of The White House 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 7, 2012 “All the President’s Pastries” Lecture with Roland Mesnier Former White House Pastry Chef 2:00 p.m. • 45 Out standing Dealers • • Special Events • Exhibitors A Bird in Hand Antique American Wicker David Brooker Carlson & Stevenson The Federalist Roberto Freitas American Antiques and Decorative Arts Great Canes William Hutchison James M. Labaugh Antiques Robert Lloyd Janice Paull Russack & Loto Books, LLC Rick Scott Spencer Marks Ltd. Earle D. Vandekar of Knightsbridge Mark and Marjorie Allen Artemis Gallery Alfred Bullard Cunha-St.-John Fletcher/Copenhaver Fine Art Gemini Antiques, Ltd. The Hanebergs Antiques
Arthur Guy Kaplan Polly Latham Asian Antiques McNaught Fine Art The Philadelphia Print Shop, Ltd SAJE Sears and Tither George Subkoff Michael J. Whitman Antiques Priscilla Boyd Angelos Brennan and Mouilleseaux Busch & Fielding Dubey’s Art and Antiques, Inc. E. & J. Frankel Gold Leaf Studios Hanes and Ruskin King Thomasson Antiques Inc Leather Bucket Oriental Rugs Ltd. Charles Edwin Puckett W. M. Schwind, JR Gary Sergeant Philip Suval Inc. R.M. Worth Antiques Inc
Tickets at www.washingtonwintershow.org
or by calling 202-248-7159. The Katzen Arts Center at American University 4400 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington, D.C.
For complete information, visit www.washingtonwintershow.org We are now on Twitter & Facebook
Congresswoman Norton’s NW District Office. Open weekdays, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM. 529 14th St. NW. 202-783-5065. norton. house.gov ★
capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 27
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Capitol Streets Wells Presents 2011 Brickies Hill Center Provides Appealing New Venue by Celeste McCall
I
f you create it, people will walk–or bike--to it. On December 8, Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Wells honored residents, organizations and businesses at the Fifth Annual Livable, Walkable Awards. The festive evening took place at the Hill Center, the beautifully restored Old Naval Hospital, at 921 Pennsylvania Ave, SE. “To create a truly livable, walkable community, it takes leadership and vision - not just from those elected Michael Barrette receives “The Neighbor Award.” Photo: to office--but also from our Andrew Lightman neighbors, city employees, civic organizations, and loform rooftops–including the Luthercal businesses,” said Wells, who lives an Church of the Reformation-- into on Capitol Hill. The Hill commu- platforms for sustainable energy. Benity had submitted nominations in sides promoting Capital Futbol Club, five categories, including a new one: Sports on the Hill, and the Fri0ends “celebrating civic pride.” Affection- of Watkins Recreation Center, he ately called “The Brickies,” because has re-envisioned the ocean of asthe awards are presented on a brick, phalt along the Anacostia River (an the event was sponsored by dozens of RFK parking lot), by transforming Ward 6 local businesses. it into the Capitol Riverside Youth More than a hundred guests Sports Park. chowed down on melt-in-your mouth baby back ribs; beef sliders, yummy *Community Organization fish tacos, wrap sandwiches, pesto Award: Neighbors of pasta, and other delectable victuals Southwest Duck Pond provided by local restaurants. They This inviting green space is across also enjoyed live music by Synchronthe street from the Waterside Mall icity. Around 7:15 p.m., Wells anFitness and Swim Club, where Peter nounced the winners: and I strive to keep in shape. Part of the urban renewal project of the *Neighbor Award: 1960s and 70s, the Southwest park Michael Barrette eventually deteriorated. Not to be With the Capitol Hill Energy deterred, families of ducks adopted Coop, Barrette led the effort to trans- the pond as their home and returned
year after year. A few years ago, neighbors began to reclaim the park, creating Neighbors of Southwest Duck Pond and launching a partnership with the DC Department of Parks and Rec-
Ken McManus, Susan Yount, and Melissa Rohan accept the “Community Organization Award” for Neighbors of the Southwest Duck Pond. Photo: Andrew Lightman
reation. Accepting the award on behalf of the organization were Ken McManus, Susan Yount, and Melissa Rohan.
Frank Hankins of Sova Espresso & Wine receives the “Business Award.” Photo: Andrew Lightman capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 29
It’s A New Year! All Properties Listed On: BobWilliamsRealEstate.com ColdwellBanker.com CBMove.com Realtor.com
WashingtonPost.com Yahoo.com Google.com Trulia.com
NYTimes.com HomesDatabase.com OpenHouse.com
<For Sale 5511 Colorado Avenue NW The Margie Condominiums Brand New Building with 4 Units still available. Generously proportioned 2br/ 2ba units ranging b/w 10501200+ sf priced from $319,500 plus Large 3br/3ba Penthouse 2300sf unit w/ sole rights to roof-top priced at $549,500.
A Few Highlights of 2011:
635 A Street NE - SOLD $1,035,000 306 A Street SE - SOLD $815,000 7 9th Street SE - SOLD $558,000 103 8th Street NE - SOLD $625,000 1214 C Street SE - SOLD $780,000
1811 Independence SE -- SOLD $565,000 523 23rd Place NE - SOLD $389,500 506 7th Street SE - SOLD $450,000 1014 D Street NE - SOLD $725,000
Our properties have sold in less than 3 weeks at or near asking (if not, above). References can and will be provided. Former Owner of Burns & Williams Real Estate, Coldwell Banker’s top 2% in 2011 Third generation Capitol Hill resident - dating back to 1918 Selling Real Estate on Capitol Hill since 1977
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Terry Bellamy, Director of DDOT; Chris Holben, DDOT’s Capital Bikeshare Project Director; Eric Gilliland, General Manager of Capital Bikeshare’s operator Alta; and Jim Sebastian, DDOT’s Bicycle Program Manager accept “The Public Servant Award.” Photo: Andrew Lightman
*Business Award: SOVA Espresso & Wine Since 2007, owner Frank Hankins has made SOVA, at 1359 H St. NE, an Atlas District neighborhood gathering place within walking–and biking--distance for many. Besides dispensing coffee, sandwiches and other fare, SOVA hosts weekly bluegrass nights, and also provides community meeting rooms and display space for local artists. Hankins accepted the “brickie.”
*Public Service Award: Capital Bikeshare We see these bright red bikes parked everywhere, and Capital Bikeshare has been an unmitigated success. In one year, 18,000 people joined Bikeshare, taking more than a million rides -- more than twice what officials predicted. In this year’s budget, the city is doubling the
www.bobwilliamsrealestate.com
Phyllis Jane Young accepts “The Civic Pride Award” for Capitol Hill’s Coldwell Banker office. Photo: Andrew Lightman 30 ★ HillRag | January 2012
program to keep up with demand and to expand to more of the city. Sharing the award were Terry Bellamy, Director of DDOT; Chris Holben, DDOT’s Capital Bikeshare project director; Eric Gilliland, general manager of Capital Bikeshare’s operator Alta; and Jim Sebastian, DDOT’s bicycle program manager.
*Civic Pride Award: Coldwell Banker Holiday Display During the holidays, folks strolling along the 600 block of Pennsylvania Ave. SE pause to admiring the enchanting displays which depict Hill restaurants, other businesses and even ice skaters--in the windows of Coldwell Banker’s real estate office. The enchanting winter wonderland reminds us of long-ago Woodies (remember that iconic department store?) and the lavish displays in New York’s Lord & Taylor and Saks Fifth Avenue. Accepting the “Brickie” on behalf of Coldwell Banker was project creator agent Phyllis Jane Young. The following local businesses sponsored the evening: Matchbox; Ted’s Bulletin; Argonaut Restaurant; Cava; Harriet’s Family Restaurant, who dished out the ribs. ( Located down town and owned by John Boyle, who used to operate Marty’s on Barracks Row); Atlas Room; Taylor Gourmet Deli; Justin’s Café; Canales Deli and Paik Produce (both in Eastern Market); Tunnicliff ’s Tavern; Surroundings, who provided the lovely floral centerpieces; James Loots Law; Flea Market at Eastern Market; CHAMPS; Regional Title; Create DC; Diverse Markets; DC Access; Evolve Property Management, Oehme, Van Sweden & Associates landscape architects; Food, Nutrition & Policy Consultants LLC; Friends of the National Arboretum, the medical offices of Joseph Tarandolo, MD; and the Hill Rag. ★ capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 31
bulletin board
Capitol Riverfront BID Annual Meeting and Luncheon
Graduate School USA Workshop at CES Government Conference
All are welcome to come to the meeting and luncheon on Jan.12, 11:30 a.m.1:30 p.m., 1015 Half St. SE (10th floor). Shyam Kannan, Principal at Robert Charles Lesser & Co. (RCLCO) will be this year’s keynote speaker. Shyam will present findings from a BID initiated study examining development and residential growth near select Green Line Metro stations since 2000, and the fiscal impact of continued development within the Capitol Riverfront BID. The BID’s Clean & Safe team will be recognized through their annual awards, the 2011 Annual Reports and State of the Capitol Riverfront will be distributed, and Buzz Bakery--opening soon in the Capitol Riverfront--will be providing sweet treats. RSVP at capitolriverfront.org/2011-annual-meeting.
Graduate School USA is hosting a preconference workshop-How to Map a Cloud Strategy: A Public Sector Guide at the 7th Annual CES Government Conference. The workshop will address how federal agencies, having just finished their first cloud transition, move their next services to the cloud. Panelists will address how to implement a cloud strategy that includes the step-by-step process necessary to achieve success. Jan. 911, Paris Las Vegas Hotel, 3655 Las Vegas Blvd., South, Las Vegas, NV. 202-314-3510. graduateschool.edu
Job Seekers: Ask a Librarian for Assistance!
Susan Sedgewick with CHGM Special Events Coordinator Shelah Wilcox. Photo: Courtesy of Capitol Hill Group Ministry
Susan Sedgwick Wins 2011 Ruth Rappaport Wisdom Award Capitol Hill Group Ministry is proud to announce that Susan Sedgwick was awarded the 2011 Ruth Rappaport Wisdom Award at this year’s 8th Annual Thanksgiving Interfaith Service. The CHGM Ruth Rappaport Wisdom Award seeks to recognize the work of one individual annually who has displayed remarkable warmth, wisdom, and commitment to the Capitol Hill Community, carrying on the tradition of Ruth Rappaport, an exceptional woman who was an inspirational mentor to us all. Susan Sedgewick, a resident of Capitol Hill since 1979, has for years assisted the CHGM staff in helping our neighbors in need. Without Susan’s invaluable assistance, programs such as the St. Mark’s Summer Shelter Project, Hope-ForThe-Homeless Golf Tournament, and the Thanks-GIVING Food Basket Program would not be nearly the success that they are today. 202-544-0631. chgm.net
32 ★ HillRag | January 2012
If you’re like many other people who use the library’s computers to search for jobs or update your résumé, and you need some extra assistance, stop by the Southeast Library on Wednesday mornings. A librarian will be available to assist you, 10:00 a.m.-noon. They can help you set up a professional email address, take a look at your résumé and help with job searches. 403 Seventh St. SE. 202-698-3377. dclibrary.org/southeast
Southwest Duck Pond Awarded a “Brickie” Southwest Duck Pond was honored by Councilmember Tommy Wells with a Livable, Walkable Community Organization Award, commonly known as a “Brickie”. The Neighbors of Southwest Duck Pond have taken up the tremendous endeavor in cleaning and maintaining the pocket park on 6th and I sts. SW. The Southwest Duck Pond is located directly across the street from The Graduate School’s property and over the last two years the residents in the area have taken up the tremendous endeavor in cleaning and maintaining the pocket park. The Graduate School, which owns the SEU campus, announced they are contributing up to a thousand dollars in matching grants to Southwest Duck Pond.
Free Handel’s Messiah Download from Folger Library Needing something to get you into the holiday spirit, but not sure if another rendition of “Jingle Bells” is quite right? Enjoy a free download of Folger Consort performing selections of Handel’s Messiah, which draws almost all of its text from the King James Bible. The Consort is joined by the Choir of Magdalen College, Oxford and vocalists Drew Minter, Ann Monoyios, and William Sharp. To access the free download, click “Buy MP3.” folger.edu
Traffic Switch Planned for Benning Road, NE In mid-December, the District Department of Transportation began the final phase of work on the Benning Road Reconstruction Project. During this phase crews will be working behind concrete barriers in the middle of the roadway between 39th and 42nd sts. Eastbound and westbound traffic will be shifted to the outer limits of the roadway. Pedestrian and driveway access along this stretch will be kept open. Temporary traffic control signs will be in place to guide motorists through this area. Barring any major weather delays, this final phase of the work should be completed by mid February 2012.
Supreme Court Recruiting Volunteer Docents Are you interested in government, history, and architecture? Do you enjoy working with the public or teaching? Then consider applying to be a docent in the
Curator’s Office at the Supreme Court. They are recruiting qualified volunteers to conduct public programs, lead tours, and staff an information desk. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age, be comfortable speaking to large groups of people of all ages and backgrounds, and be willing to commit to one 3 hour shift per week (M-F) for one year. All new docents must attend 25 hours of mandatory training in late February. Individuals with Spanish language skills are encouraged to apply. Top candidates will be invited to interview with the Visitor Programs staff. Final selection is subject to successful completion of a security background check. Applications for the February training are being accepted through Jan. 20, 2012. For more information, call 202-479-3298 to request an application, or visit the Supreme Court’s website at supremecourt.gov/jobs/docentprogram.
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Washington Winter Show Celebrates the White House Tickets are on sale now for the Jan 5-8 Washington Winter Show “Celebrating the White House.” Forty-five premier dealers from the US and Europe will offer a wide range of period furnishings and decorative arts, vintage jewelry, porcelains, ceramics, silver, and architectural garden accents. $20. Katzen Arts Center at American University. 202-2487159. washingtonwintershow.org
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“Rivers of the World” Art Exhibition at Yards Park Take a stroll along the Yards Park Boardwalk to explore a vibrant new artwork display entitled “Rivers of the World.” Students from 15 countries, and representing 208 schools, worked with artists to create artwork inspired by the study of their city’s river or that of a siscapitalcommunitynews.com ★ 33
capitolstreets news ter city. DC’s Anacostia River is one of the rivers featured in this project. These unique artwork panels were first exhibited along London’s south
bank riverside walkway, and will be a moving exhibition that is featured along waterfronts all over the world. The artwork panels will be on display
Capitol Hill’s Maryland Avenue, NE Photo: Bill Schultheiss
Maryland Avenue Pedestrian Safety Project Meeting and Website DDOT is hosting a meeting for the Maryland Avenue Pedestrian Safety Project on Saturday, Jan. 28, 1:00-3:00 p.m. at the Sherwood Recreation Center, 640 10th St. NE. This meeting will be an interactive workshop where DDOT staff and the consulting team will introduce proposed safety improvement alternatives to the community to solicit feedback. Proposed improvements consists of potential reconfiguration of intersections, adjustments to parking, pedestrian safety treatments, transit stop relocations and amenity options, addition of left turn lanes, removal of travel lanes, and landscaping improvements. The project team will discuss the potential impacts and gauge initial public support for each of the various alternatives developed. The meeting will begin with a 30 minute presentation to provide an overview, but attendees are welcome to stop by any time during the scheduled hours. In 2010, City Council identified initial funding for implementing the 2009 DDOT Pedestrian Master Plan. The Council specifically identified several important corridors in the District, including Maryland Ave. NE, that have a history of hazardous conditions for pedestrian travel. The Council charged DDOT with improving pedestrian safety and access and calming traffic to make Maryland Ave. a safer and more livable street for all who use it. This project focuses on improving safety for pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and transit users along Maryland Ave. The study corridor is Maryland Ave. NE between Constitution Ave. and 15th St. NE. Concerns of neighborhood residents and others that travel the corridor will be gathered through public meetings as well as an interactive map and comment form, both found on the website. This information will be combined with traffic condition analyses and field survey to generate and evaluate safety improvements and design alternatives for Maryland Ave. tooledesign.com/marylandave
34 ★ HillRag | January 2012
through February 2012. riversoftheworld.org
11th Street Bridge Project Milestone On Dec. 16, Mayor Gray and representatives from the Council of the District of Columbia, the District Department of Transportation, the Federal Highway Administration and the community marked a major milestone on the 11th Street Bridge Project-the completion of the two new freeway bridges. This construction project is the largest that DDOT has ever undertaken and will provide a seamless connection across the Anacostia River for residents and commuters. Projected to serve almost 180,000 vehicles per day by 2030, the existing bridges lack connections to allow travel directly from southbound DC 295/Anacostia Freeway to the Southeast-Southwest Freeway or from the Southeast-Southwest Freeway to northbound DC 295. The two new freeway bridges will provide these connections. The third bridge will carry local traffic between city streets on both sides of the river and provide additional connections to both directions of DC 295. The project is the largest ever constructed by DDOT and is the first river bridge replacement in the District in more than 40 years. ddot. dc.gov/11thStreetBridge
Botanic Garden Horticultural Hotline Your gardening questions can be asked at their plant hotline by calling 202-226-4785. Leave a message and the staff will return your call. You may also submit your question by filling out the form on their website, usbg.gov/ contact-us/horticultural-hotline.
Tortilla Coast Opens at Second Location Tortilla Coast opened a second location at 1460 P St. NW, near Logan Circle, in mid-De-
cember. While the new restaurant will offer the same fun atmosphere and focus on freshly made food that guests have come to expect at the original Capitol Hill location, the Logan Circle restaurant will feature authentic regional Mexican cuisine. The restaurant has 152 seats (including 45 in the bar area) and, in spring, will feature a 48 seat patio. The décor is anchored by a 30’ mural of Mexican street art collected by local designer Walter Gagliano. Tortilla Coast Logan Circle is open for dining Monday-Thursday 11:30 a.m.–11:00 p.m.; Friday 11:30 a.m.–midnight; Saturday 10:00 a.m.- midnight; Sunday 10:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. Brunch on Saturday and Sunday will be served from 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. tortillacoast.com
The Anacostia River Forum: Experience Your Impact on It and Its Impact on You On Thursday, Jan. 26, 7:00 p.m., participate in this forum on the Anacostia watershed. Panelists will present problems, solutions, and resources, and will engage the audience in discussion. Please notify them that you are attending by calling 202633-4844. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu
Riverwalk Pedestrian Bridge Opens On Nov. 22, Mayor Vincent Gray, Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, George Hawkins of DC Water, and Deborah Ratner Salzberg of Forest City Washington, among many other Capitol Riverfront neighbors celebrated the opening of a brand new pedestrian bridge connecting Diamond Teague Park and the Yards Park. The Racing Presidents from Nationals Ballpark arrived at the event in style, and took the inaugural first stroll across the new pedestrian bridge! This bridge
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capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 35
connection creates a continuous 1-mile riverwalk trail that is publicly accessible within the Capitol Riverfront and connects to a larger trail system being developed along the Anacostia riverfront and throughout the District of Columbia.
Registration Open for 2012 Cupid’s Undie Run
Capitol Hill/NE $439,900 Remodeled and charming! This 2 bedroom, 1.5 new bath rowhouse is conveniently located within easy walking distance to 3 Metro stations, Eastern Market and the vibrant H Street corridor. Enjoy the updated eatin kitchen, exposed brick walls, refinished hardwoods, newer double pane windows, new doors, fresh paint, washer & dryer, and a fenced backyard patio just perfect for dining al- fresco. Just 3 blocks from Lincoln Park!
SOLD
Arlington S. $489,900 Spacious 3 level brick end-unit with garage nestled on a lovely corner garden lot. Enjoy 1,900 sqft of living space, 3 bedrooms, 2 full & 2 half baths, hardwood floors, master with bath ensuite, a walk-out lower level with rec room, exposed brick FP & wet bar, and a fenced backyard patio just perfect for entertaining. Conveniently located just minutes from grocery, shops, neighborhood parks, restaurants & café’s.
Arlington N. $469,900 Adorable & updated! 2 bedroom plus den circa 1920 bungalow with big detached 2 car garage. Enjoy the welcoming covered front porch, charming period details, hardwood floors, nooks and crannies galore, a cheerful sun room off of the kitchen opening onto decking, fixed stairs to attic, and a full basement with loads of storage & options. Just a few blocks from Ballston & Metro!
Arlington N. $469,900 English Village Cottage inspired end unit row-home located just over a mile from Ballston and Metro and just steps to shops, restaurants, cafe’s and Metro bus. Enjoy the period Tudor brickwork & hardware, gleaming hardwood floors, living room with fireplace, an updated kitchen that has preserved the vintage charm, a separate dining room, extra end-unit windows, expanded closets, finished lower level rec room with stone hearth (2nd) fireplace, extra parking in rear alley and a fenced Georgetown style patio overlooking amazing gardens straight out of a Monet painting. This one is truly special. Calling all preservationists!
Please visit www.davelloyd.net for open house schedule
Festivities start at noon on Feb. 11, in six cities nationwide (DC, NYC, Atlanta, Seattle, Denver and Cincinnati), then runners strip down for the Undie Run at 2:00 p.m., have fun and come back for post-race festivities and awards. Registration is now open and it’s going to sell out quick, so act fast! Cupid’s Undie Run DC takes runners on a 1.1 mile jog past the US Capitol Building. Pre and post-run festivities are held at the historic Pour House Bar & Grill and the neighboring Capitol Lounge. You can fundraise as an individual or join a team, and the prizes are better than ever this year! Custom undies, embroidered bathrobes, Kindles, romantic getaways... tons of cool stuff for doing your good deed and fundraising for such a great cause. This event benefits The Children’s Tumor Foundation. Read more at cupidsundierun.com or call 202681-5767.
Harris Teeter NoMa Bags Go green and show your support for NoMa! Purchase an orange NoMa-branded bag at Harris Teeter along with your groceries, and part of the proceeds will be donated to support the work of the NoMa BID. Harris Teeter store manager Byron Muonio has 3,000 bags waiting to be sold, so stop by and get yours today before they run out! The NoMa bags cannot be purchased at any other Harris Teeter store.
DC’s Green Roof Rebate Program
Enthusiastically serving clients on both sides of the river. 36 ★ HillRag | January 2012
DC’s Green Roof Rebate Program is currently accepting applications for the District’s new green roof rebate program for residential, commercial and institutional prop-
erties in the District. The program provides $5 for every square foot of planted area and are available for both new and existing buildings. Green roofs yield lower utility bills, increase property values and improve both air and water quality. The Green Roof Rebate Program is administered by the Anacostia Watershed Society. To apply, visit their Green Roofs webpage or call 202557-5814 for more information.
How to See House or Senate in Session The Senate and House Galleries are open to visitors whenever either body is in session. In addition, the House Gallery is open from 9:00 a.m.-4:15 p.m., Monday-Friday, when the House is not in session. The last entry may be earlier than 4:15 p.m. based upon demand. Visitors should arrive prior to 4:00 p.m. for the best opportunity to view the House Gallery. The House Gallery is closed on holidays and is subject to unplanned temporary closures when the House is out of session. The Senate Gallery is open during scheduled recesses, MondayFriday, from 9:00 a.m.-4:15 p.m. Entry to the House and Senate Galleries is through the Capitol Visitor Center on the upper level. Gallery passes are required to enter either Gallery at any time. Visitors may obtain Gallery passes from the offices of their Senators or Representatives. International visitors may inquire about Gallery passes at the House and Senate Appointment Desks on the upper level of the Visitor Center near the main entrance. Visitors are not allowed to bring battery-operated electronic devices (medical devices are permitted); cameras; creams, lotions or perfumes; strollers; or video recorders or any type of recording device into the Galleries. These items may be stored securely in the Gallery staging areas while visitors are in the Galleries. visitthecapitol.gov
Casey Trees Plants 439 Trees Across the District Casey Trees staff and nearly 1,000 adult and youth volunteers
planted 439 trees this fall at 30 Community Tree Planting events across the District. The season’s tree planting initiatives represent a financial investment in the nation’s capital totaling more than $182,000, including 2,300 hours of volunteer labor. Of note, the fall CTP season featured nine tree plantings at DC schools where more than 150 students from grades K-12 added 44 trees to and surrounding their campuses. Students also participated in Tree Rallies leading up to their planting date to learn about the many benefits trees provide and how to properly handle and plant trees. Additionally, Casey Trees expanded its fruit tree plantings, adding 39 trees to five sites including the U.S. National Arboretum’s Washington Youth Garden, Green SEED Community Garden, Capitol Hill Montessori School, Developing Families Center and the McLean Gardens neighborhood. Established in 2005, the CTP program provides trees, tools, and technical assistance to individuals and groups interested in adding 10 or more trees to private property in the District free of charge. Groups commit to watering and caring for the trees for two years following their planting. Nearly 4,500 trees have been planted across the District through the CTP program since its inception. caseytrees.org
Register Now for Martin Luther King Day of Service On Monday, Jan. 16, 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., HandsOn Greater DC Cares will unite nearly 2,000 community members in service to remember and honor Dr. King’s legacy of social justice. Register today to honor Dr. King AND support youth, education and economic recovery. When you register, you have the option to create a volunteer team--and you can volunteer with friends,
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family, your place of worship, your alumni association, coworkers or any other group. There is no minimum team size. There is a $25/person registration fee to participate in the MLK Day of Service, which helps share in programming costs, including paint, ladders, brushes, garbage bags, and everything else that makes service possible. This contribution helps support the free participation of youth volunteers throughout the region. It also includes your event t-shirt and snacks and water at the project. mlk2012. kintera.org
Request for Proposals: Yards Park Concert Series Vendors
Dancers Kathleen Grant and Barbara Black. Photo: Courtesy of Hill Center
New Dance Class for Older Adults to Begin in January at the Hill Center A new dance class for older, mature adults will be forming at the Hill Center in January. Led by Margot Greenlee of the Liz Lerman Dance Exchange, this class will promote conscious moving and critical thinking. “My class is designed for people who love to dance, who miss dancing or who want to try moving in a brand new way,” Margot said. “I promise to give just the right amount of challenge and care so that your body feels agile and your mind stays sharp.” No prior experience is required. The class is appropriate for all ability levels. Classes are held every Wednesday. They begin at 9:15 a.m. on Jan. 11, at the Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. Each class will run from 9:15-10:45 a.m. The cost is $18 per class. A 10-class card is $160. First class is free. For more information, visit hillcenterdc.org or call Margot Greenlee directly at 202-253-7946.
The Capitol Riverfront BID is seeking proposals from local food, beverage, and booking/management providers for its 2012 Friday Evening Concert Series at the Yards Park. The concert series, now in its second year, attracts a regional audience looking for a place to relax and unwind, spend time with friends and family, and enjoy the river and outdoors on Friday evenings. capitolriverfront.org
Public Housing Residents’ Citywide Advisory Board Health Needs Initiative Surveys If you are a public housing resident of DC Housing Authority, please step forward and be counted. The Citywide Advisory Board needs you to complete your household Health Needs Initiative Survey as soon as possible. The survey is anonymous. Do not 38 ★ HillRag | January 2012
place your name on the survey. For a blank copy of this survey, go to your Property Management Office or contact Kenneth Council at 202-575-3601. Please complete the survey and drop it in the box in the office. If there is no box, ask the Property Manager to provide a “space or place for it to be collected.” Many Resident Council officers and members of the Citywide Advisory Board are working to make the Health Needs Survey Initiative a resounding success. Mr. Council, who is chairing this project, asks that you “Please take a few minutes and do something that makes a difference. This survey is being done by the residents, for the residents. It’s an empowerment piece so that we can become more self-sufficient. With your help we can help ourselves improve our health, our children’s health and
the lives of people in the communities where we live.”
DC Arts Commission Arts Impact Grant Program The Arts Impact Grant (AIG) provides funding for projects, programming and general operating expenses to organizations that significantly impact District of Columbia residents through exhibitions, presentations, training and educational opportunities in the arts and humanities. Through AIG, organizations may request up to $30,000. This grant is only open to organizations and not individual artists. For more information, organizations may contact Moshe Adams, Director of Grants and Legislative Affairs at 202-724-5613 or moshe. adams@dc.gov.
Soles4Souls Collects Shoes for Needy Soles4Souls, Inc. has committed to collect and distribute shoes to people living in extreme poverty and recovering from natural disasters. The shoe charity provides one pair of shoes to a person in need every 7 seconds. Since 2005, Soles4Souls has distributed more than 16 million pairs of shoes because of the generosity and commitment of people and organizations like Alexandria Family Podiatry. Soles4Souls and Alexandria Family Podiatry will be collecting your new or gently worn footwear and/or donations to make a tangible difference through the gift of shoes. Every donation will support the charity’s initiative to distribute shoes to those in need. Shoes can be dropped off at Alexandria Family Podiatry, 2843 Duke St. Alexandria, VA any time between now and Jan. 6. For directions or questions, visit their website at alexandriafamilypodiatry.com or call 703-823-2357. ★
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capitolstreets
Closing the Book on Ethics Reform by Martin Austermuhle
S
eemingly intent on having 2012 start better than 2011 ended, on December 20 the D.C. Council approved a comprehensive ethics bill that seeks to tamp down on the ethical and legal transgressions that dogged the city’s legislators and largely dominated the tail end of last year’s political discussions. At some point in the next few months, a new three-person D.C. Board of Ethics and Government Accountability will take shape, elected officials will face stricter reporting requirements and conflict-of-interest standards, the D.C. Attorney General will gain new powers to prosecute scofflaws and legislators will be more easily censured or expelled for violating the public’s trust. This is all good news, right? Yes and no – it’s tough to weigh who won, who lost and where local politics will end up this year. But we’ll try.
Bowser and Brown For Councilmember Muriel Bowser (D-Ward 4), the bill looks like a win. After having been handed the chairmanship of the Committee on Government Operations in July, Bowser set out to craft a bill from up to 10 competing proposals in a charged political environment. Given that she largely got her way while receiving ample credit from her colleagues for individually approaching them for their insights, Bowser couldn’t be happier. Not only did she shepherd a significant piece of legislation through the council in a timeframe that she established, but she did so ahead of her own 2012 reelection bid. Of course, many good govern40 ★ HillRag | January 2012
likely did do so with an eye towards his own ethical troubles in 2011. He may have turned a page insofar as his colleagues are concerned, but he still faces an ongoing federal investigation into 2008 campaign irregularities. If the investigation leads to an indictment, he may well find himself at the mercy of the very provisions he worked so hard to pass.
Orange and Wells
Councilmember Tommy Wells voted against the recent ethics reform bill. Photo: Andrew Lightman
ment advocates will argue that her victory is merely symbolic. Her bill may have tweaked a few laws for the better and created a new institution to better police compliance (cost: $1.5 million over the next four years), but it left untouched one of the more corrupting elements of any political system – money. Amendments to ban bundled campaign contributions and more aggressively attack pay-to-play politics were set aside, with only vague promises that the new board will consider them when it is up and running. And while a new amendment would allow 11 members to vote to expel one of its own, Bowser pulled back on making it easier to recall city officials. Initial versions of the bill knocked down the signaturegathering requirement to get a recall on the ballot from ten percent of registered voters to five percent, but in a last-minute move she backed off on the change. Then there’s the issue of timing.
She moved quickly, leaving some of her colleagues to wonder whether speed was winning out over substance, and whether her own electoral hopes we’re getting in the way of effective ethics enforcement. For D.C. Council Chair Kwame Brown, it also looks like a win – if only temporarily. Brown faithfully stuck to Bowser’s side throughout the debate, going so far as to threaten his colleagues with additional pre-Christmas legislative sessions if that’s what it would take to get the bill passed before the close of 2011. When the bill was on the verge of floundering during a November committee markup, Brown – who can vote in any council committee – appeared to speak on its behalf, convincing a skeptical Councilmember Michael A. Brown (I-At Large) to set aside his doubts and vote to move the proposal forward. The victory for him isn’t forever, though. As much as Kwame Brown may have taken Bowser’s side, he
For both Councilmembers Vincent Orange (D-At Large) and Tommy Wells (D-Ward 6), the picture is similarly complicated. Throughout the debate, Orange pushed back on Bowser, claiming that she was moving too quickly on a bad idea – namely, the creation of a new government agency to police ethics, when the existing Board of Elections and Ethics could well do fine with more resources. He floated his own competing proposals, including an emergency ethics taskforce, and made waves when he introduced legislation that would have introduced term limits and prohibited outside employment for his colleagues. But when it came time to vote, Orange cast his lot in with a bill that he had heavily criticized. Some said he was simply being pragmatic, seeing that the bill would pass anyhow. Others attribute larger and more cynical goals – in making himself a loud voice during the ethics debate, he gives himself a talking point for his 2012 re-election campaign, despite having raised over $30,000 in bundled corporate campaign contributions according to a December 2011 filing. (Shortly after the session ended, Orange’s office blasted out a
press release titled touting his efforts to “put teeth in ethics reform.”) As for Wells, he was the sole dissenting vote on the bill, tweeting after the session, “[F]rankly the changes to protect status quo on constituent services funds put me over the edge as much as the votes against transparency.” Wells was referring to an amendment sponsored by Councilmember Jack Evans (DWard 2) that removed a prohibition on the use of money from Constituent Services Funds on sporting tickets (it passed on an 8-5 vote), along with a slate of proposals he put forth that would have eliminated the funds, scrapped bundled campaign contributions and prohibited contractors with business before the city from donating to political campaigns. (None made it into the final bill.) With his amendments and his vote, Wells became the principled idealist on the council. Gven the toxicity of DC politics in 2011, that’s certainly not a bad place to be – especially if he has ambitions for higher office in 2014. (Local pundits love to think he does, yours truly included.) But in more immediate practical terms, some have argued that he let the perfect be the enemy of the good. His proposals gained the support of many good government advocates, while his colleagues insisted that they deserved further discussion. Bowser promised to have the new board more fully investigate how to tamp down on bundled campaign contributions – shouldn’t Wells focus on energies on making sure that happens?
Evans and Barry It’s not often that Councilmembers Jack Evans (D-Ward 2) and Marion Barry (D-Ward 8) can be equated, but their actions during the ethics debate were similar enough to merit it. After spending much of the time dismissing ethics proposals floated by his colleagues – notably anything to do with a second job, which he has – Evans managed to convince enough colleagues that he should still be able to use his Constituent Services Fund for tickets to sporting events. It’s yet unclear which of his
constituents benefit from the tickets, but he’s certainly spent lavishly on them – $135,897 over a decade, according to The Washington Post, more than he put towards charitable causes. For his part, Barry spent as much time grousing about the local media as he did insisting that there really wasn’t any reason to be discussing ethics in the first place. That says enough about both him and where the council currently finds itself. For as different as they are, both Barry and Evans spent much of the debate acting like their combined longevity on the council and in District politics should grant them a distinct insight into what will work and what won’t. While there’s something to be said for institutional memory, it’s hard to see how arguing that “This is the way things have always been done” is a good thing.
Thomas Maybe the oddest contributions came from Councilmember Harry Thomas, Jr. (D-Ward 5), who by any measure faces the most consequences from allegedly misappropriating $300,000 of public funds. Still under the weight of a federal investigation, Thomas cast a number of votes on the legislation and its amendments, voting “Present” on the latter while casting his lot in with the rest of colleagues on the former. Like Brown, it’s likely not lost on him that once the legislation goes into effect, he could well be its first victim.
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The Candidates Though they didn’t cast votes on the bill, challengers in the 2012 races made their presence felt, and will likely continue to harp on the issue as April approaches. Ward 4 contender Max Skolnik testified twice, once attacking Bowser for her own use of her Constituent Services Funds and acceptance of bundled campaign contributions. Peter Shapiro, vying for Orange’s seat, also expressed his disappointment with the bill, as did David Grosso, who is going after Michael Brown’s AtLarge chair. Martin Austermuhle is the Editor-in-Chief of DCist.com and a freelance writer. He lives in Mt. Pleasant. ★
capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 41
capitolstreets theNUMB3RS 3.327.649.10
Critical Needs Constituents Are Best Served By Ensuring That Critical Needs Are Met In the Budget by Soumya Bhat and Kwame Boadi
I
f you followed the DC ethics debate late last year, you probably heard members of the DC Council defend the use of constituent service funds as the safety net of last resort for those seeking emergency assistance. Some members told stories of families camped out in council offices with no place to go, but critics said the funds were not often used for these purposes. What was left out of the debate is that the District provides emergency services through its budget though many of these programs have been cut in recent years, and that you don’t need to know a councilmember or someone else at City Hall to get help. Constituent service funds, which are privately raised and not part of the city’s budget, have been used for a wide range of purposes such as helping a resident with rent or bills, paying for funeral services, and purchasing sports and theater tickets. In the end, the council decided to reduce the yearly limit on constituent service funds, from $80,000 to $40,000. By and large, the council rejected calls to eliminate constituent service funds, and part of the pushback against their elimination was based on the notion that these funds are important to meet critical emergency needs of constituents who have nowhere else to turn. Unfortunately however, these services that council members talked about as critical have been on the chopping block during the last few budget cycles, right at a time when residents have needed them the most due to the economic downturn. Take the DC Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP), for example, which was reduced to $2.7 million, an almost 70 percent cut to the program since FY 2009. ERAP offers one-time assistance to eligible low-income District residents that need immediate help paying rent to avoid eviction. The program offers funds to help residents pay overdue rent, court/late fees, security deposits and first month’s rent for those who have recently moved. In
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2008, DC ERAP issued $7.5 million in payments assisting over 3,700 households. Three out of four of these payments went to households with children, which included households that also had an elderly member or a member with a disability. In the same way, DC households unable to pay their utility costs may find it even more challenging to access emergency utility assistance in FY 2012, with Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) cut by 23 percent. LIHEAP, an energy program designed to help eligible low-income DC households with their heating and cooling costs, is operated by the District Department of the Environment’s Energy Office (DDOE) with a blend of local funds and federal funding from the US Department of Health and Human Services. In 2010, DC LIHEAP provided 36,607 vulnerable households with financial assistance, with about 70 percent of the beneficiaries either elderly or children under age five. Eligibility for assistance is based on an individual’s annual gross income (below 150 percent) and the size of their household. The amount of assistance provided is based on household size, total household income, heating source (gas, electricity, oil, coal, wood or propane), and type of residence. Another critical program utilized by DC residents is the Interim Disability Assistance (IDA) Program, which provides temporary financial assistance to individuals who cannot work due to a disability and are on the waiting list to receive federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. IDA payments are offered to approximately 1,500 eligible individuals a month until their SSI eligibility is approved or denied. Without this critical support, these individuals are likely to be homeless or destitute. The IDA program was in a particularly vulnerable position this past budget cycle when Mayor Gray proposed to stop all IDA benefits to current recipients as well as reject any future applications for the next year. Fortunately, the cut was not approved by the DC Council and the program is cur-
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rently funded at $3 million, a significant decrease from FY 2008 funding of $5.6 million. Similar to the practice for other states, DC’s IDA Program receives reimbursement from the federal government for any funds distributed once IDA recipients are approved for SSI disability. For the past several budgets, programs that support low and moderate-income District residents have been on the chopping block due to projected deficits. But trimming the budgets of these programs does nothing to decrease the need for them in neighborhoods across the District. The benefit of programs such as LIHEAP, ERAP, and IDA over constituent services funds is that while the latter help a select few people who must first know that the funds exist and second use some sort of personal relationship to access them, the former are made widely available to any District resident that meets their eligibility requirements. Early indications are that the FY 2013 budget will face a deficit. As city leaders begin to determine what program will be funded next year and how, hopefully they will remember their statements about how important it is to have funds to meet the critical needs of residents.
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capitolstreets news
The Hine Project Moves Ahead Newest Version of Plans Filed with Zoning Commission by Roberta Weiner
L
ongtime residents of Capitol Hill have a nostalgic view of the ‘50’s modern hulk that is Hine Jr. High School. They remember Princess Whitfield, the larger-thanlife principal who inspired her students and teachers to win national awards. There was the pleasure of catching the likes of then-Mayor Marion Barry or Rag publisher Jean-Keith Fagon energetically returning tennis balls on the busy courts near the 8th Street dog run. There was the sound of ball hitting backboard and rim during summer evening pick-up basketball games. And, there was the not-as-relaxing sound of band and cheerleader practice in the school yard in the afternoons. But that was then.
Almost Ancient History As most Hillites know, in 2007 Hine was closed, the result of a shrinking student population and Michelle Rhee’s school consolidation initiative. Mayor Fenty and the Deputy Mayor for Economic Development picked Hine as a good site for a new, changemaking mixed-use development. At a Metro stop, surrounded by already-developed, popular destination locations like Eastern Market, and with potential for even more robust growth, a development at Hine presented to the city a great opportunity to knit Barracks Row and Market Row closer together and increase the entire neighborhood’s residential and retail density in ways that will create a truly vital urban environment.
1st Floor Plan
After that decision was made, a Request for Proposals (RFP) was issued, 11 potential developers responded, a number whittled down by the District to three avid competitors vying for community support. Many lively meetings followed, the community voted, the District carefully vetted, and in September 2009, it was announced that the local team of Stanton-Eastbanc had been selected to develop the block-square site.
This is the Plan Now, two years later, after numer-
ous community meetings, modifications and hearings at the Historic Preservation Review Board, the plans for the development were filed with the DC Zoning Commission on November 23. Many things about the project have changed. Because of the downturn in the economy, three non-profit organizations that had been announced as tenants backed out of their commitments. The developers regrouped and reduced the size of the project from 510,000 sq. ft. to 468,000 sq. ft., a loss of 42,000 sq. ft. At the same time, the
number of apartments has been increased from 150 to 158. The plans still show two buildings—the tallestfacing Pennsylvania Avenue and the Metro plaza. In the original plan, a boutique hotel was planned for the corner of 7th Street, and while there was talk that it was no longer part of the design, Ken Golding, a Stanton principal, says they are still planning on having a small hotel in the project. There is a residentialonly building on 8th Street, which will be the same height as the row houses across the street. That building will
Site Elevation, 7th Street SE, looking east.
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back up onto an interior courtyard, which will link to a 7th Street building devoted to office space and ground floor retail. On the north side of the block (where until recently the temporary Market structure stood), C Street SE will be restored between 7th and 8th Street. Turned into an alley when Hine was constructed, the developers plan is to restore it as a through street, but one that will be closed on weekends for use by flea market vendors. On the north side of that street will be an apartment building, 60% of which will be affordable housing, and 50% to be allocated for senior residents. The south side of C Street will include the entrance to the 290 car and 60 bicycle underground garage, which will be used both for residents and Market vendors and shoppers. The entrance has been moved from 8th Street in answer to complaints from residents. However, that required moving a planned public plaza for the flea markets to the corner of 7th Street, where the size is reduced and will cause a reduction in the number of spaces for flea market vendors. The plan requires a Zoning Commission hearing because Stanton-Eastbanc is building this as a Planned Unit Development (PUD) that requires an upgrading in zoning for increased density of the site, and the project must meet certain criteria before it can move forward.
What’s a PUD? A PUD (Planned Unit Development) is a zoning initiative that allows developers, according to ANC6B Commissioner Norm Metzger “to build beyond zoning requirements in return for offsetting amenities/benefits for the surrounding community.” (For more information on how PUDs work, see Metzger’s very informative website, www.ancnorm.org). In the case of Hine, in exchange for increases in the height and density of the project the developer offers benefits to the community. Some of the benefits and amenities being offered by Stanton-Eastbanc, according to their plan, include the high quality of the architecture and landscaping, the re-opening of C Street, participation in job training and District employment programs, environmentally sustainable construction including LEED certified buildings with green roofs, underground parking for 290 cars and 60 bicycles, car sharing, a plaza with space for the weekend flea markets, and more affordable housing than the District’s Inclusionary Zoning law requires. And what’s Inclusionary Zoning, or for that matter, affordable housing? Two years ago, the District passed a law designed to en-
courage DC teachers, law enforcement personnel and other city workers who otherwise could not afford DC housing to move closer to where they work. What the law says is that developers building or enlarging an apartment structure of 10 or more units must offer up to 10% of their units to people earning less than the District’s Average Mean Income (currently $106,400 for a family of four, $76,000 for an individual) at reduced rates. The Hine proposal offers 15% affordable housing, above the mandated 10%.
What’s Next Now the community and the Zoning Commission must answer three questions: Is the proposed project of sufficient value to the community that a PUD should be considered?; What is the value of the PUD; i.e. in allowing height and density beyond the current zoning?; and, Are the benefits and amenities offered by the applicant commensurate with the value of the PUD? To that end, ANC 6B has formed a Subcommittee on Hine, chaired by Commissioner Ivan Frishberg, with Commissioner Brian Pate serving as Vice Chair, comprised not only of ANC members but representatives of community organizations that are stakeholders in the project, such as the Capitol Hill Restoration Society (CHRS), the Eastern Market Community Advisory Committee (EMCAC), CHAMPS, the Eastern Market Metro Community Association (EMMCA), Hine School North Neighbors, and others. The subcommittee members are now analyzing the Zoning Commission filing and other relevant documents to assess the new plans and compare them to the original program for the development, as well as the contracts the developer signed with the District government for the land. After that, answers to the three questions can form the foundation of a response, and the various groups can decide what their positions will be on the project if and when they testify at the Zoning Commission hearing, which may be in May 2012. The work of the subcommittee, and the analysis of the plan, can be monitored at http://hineschoolpud.wordpress.com/ Members of the subcommittee have mentioned their disappointment that more members of the community at large are not actively involved in the process. As stakeholders in a project that will change the shape of the Eastern Market neighborhood for generations to come, residents, they say, should play an active role in the effort. Monitoring the website above and attending ANC and subcommittee meetings (anc6b.org) are places to begin. And the Stanton-Eastbanc plan can be viewed at http://hineschool.com/design-concept. ★ capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 45
capitolstreets news
Gallaudet Goes to Market Next Steps in the Development of the Florida Avenue market by Dana Bell
F
or the past decade, the Florida Avenue Market--also known as the Capital City Market--has been left in development limbo. The Market is a historic institution with an enticing location; the only wholesale market in the city is just blocks from the newly constructed New York Avenue Metro, across the road from Gallaudet University and next door to the booming Atlas Corridor and NoMa. Now, Gallaudet University, a major property owner in the Market, is preparing plans for its redevelopment.
The Market The Market is a bustling labyrinth of warehouses, produce stores and semis located in the northeast quadrant of the city. It is bounded on the east by Sixth Street, on the west by New York Avenue and the rail road tracks, on the north by Penn Street and on the south by Florida Avenue. The area contains a mix of historic structures, warehouses and parking lots that house a plethora of retail and whole businesses mostly involving comestibles. It also was the home to the D.C. Farmers Market, a privately owned combined retail and wholesale establishment that housed the stalls of grocers, fish mongers and butchers.
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The Market is an industrial oasis in a decidedly un-industrial town. It is essential to the food industry, but intimidating to a new shopper approaching on foot. Richard Layman, co-author of the blog Capital City Market, used to lead tours of the Market as a way to introduce people to all of the different retail and dining options available. “It’s hard to figure out. It’s a food district, so it’s commercial. There are forklifts running around, there are trash cans, some businesses only take cash,” he says. “It’s not like Whole Foods or Giant, you can’t wander down aisle three and find something.” There is no other place in the city quite like the Florida Avenue Market. The roads are clogged with semis dropping off and picking up produce in unmarked warehouses. It is a wholesale market for the city’s grocers and a destination for neighborhood residents shopping for farm-fresh eggs to homemade tofu to halal meats. “For a lot of people, this is where they go to get their food and groceries,” says Yvonne Johnson, who worked in the farmer’s market building, recently closed due to a fire. At Caribbean Crescent, one of the only halal groceries in the District, one customer had come all the way from Norfolk, Virginia for his halal shopping for the week. The majority of its customer base comes from corner grocers and restaurants that do not buy at the volumes required by larger corporate wholesalers. “If you go on a weekend, it’s basically like a shopping mall for the
restaurant industry,” says Paul Pascal, a lawyer for an association of market vendors and property owners. And although there is little official data from the market on client base, one vendor alone estimated that he sold to over 3,300 customers a month. The market serves people from all over D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. “It’s like an octopus, its tentacles reach out everywhere,” says Pascal.
Earlier Development Plans Fail After years of debate and legislation, the DC Council passed legislation for New Town at Capital City Market in 2006. A $1.2 billion overhaul of the historic wholesale market, the plan included two hotels, luxury condominiums alongside affordable housing for government workers, a bowling alley, a movie theater, retail, and space for the displaced wholesale retailers. Five years later, there has been no movement on New Town, and the Market looks the same as ever. Yet, there is still pressure to develop this unique location. The next era of development is
coming from an unexpected source-Gallaudet University. The campus, once a traditional brick walled university, is now seeking a new type of amenity for its students across the street at the Florida Avenue Market. And they want to be sure to get it right. The vendors are skeptical of a development that will raise rents and take away the character of the market. Peter owns a wholesale merchandise store selling a random assortment of backpacks, hats, and hair clips, among other things. Since the recession, business has not been as good, but he mistrusts the old approach to development. “How do you make a new town here?” he asked. But the market is undoubtedly in need of some type of investment. A 2009 Small Area Plan issued by the Department of Planning identified a number of issues that “prevented the study area from being developed to its full potential,” which included building conditions, circulation, image, economic growth, and traffic and safety. During the New Town Development talks, Gallaudet stayed on the
sidelines. As the legislation developed, the University committed to following its own path with the space. Now that the New Town legislation has been dormant for the past few years, Gallaudet has been nudged to the front of the development by a zoning deadline.
Enter Gallaudet Gallaudet is aware of the tension between a strong history and the pressure to renovate the market. Their plan is to move slowly, establishing a temporary presence on their property while they engage the community for more permanent developments in the future. “We want to take it slowly,” says Samuel Swiller, the Associate Director for Real Estate and Economic Development at Gallaudet. “Some people say too slowly, but we want to get it right.” Gallaudet’s property lies across Sixth Street, in between Morse Street and Neal Place, sandwiched in between the stretch of retail with Litteri’s Deli and the old D.C. Farmer’s Market building. Gallaudet is careful to avoid the ambition of the New Town Development. The developers would have had to acquire land from over sixty-eight individual property owners, many of which were not willing to sell. “The whole plan was too big,” Pascal says. “It would have destroyed the food service industries.” Instead, Gallaudet wants to focus on complementing the food aspects of the Market in a way that will increase the amenities to their students. The District of Columbia requires that the University submit a Master Plan every ten years. Starting last March, a seventeenmember steering committee has held panels, met with local stakeholders, and held campus-wide meetings on issues from community and government to research and grant implementation to the Sixth Street Development. While the Master Plan has always dealt with the off-campus property, the committees are now “looking into it more aggressively,” says Swiller. While the parking lots used to be an afterthought, they now hold a symbolic place in the future of the University. Since Gallaudet acquired them in 1970, they have mainly been overflow parking lots. Now the campus is starting to look at them in a whole new way. “We knew that long-term, we wanted to shift the campus,” says Swiller. “It offers us a good opportunity for the deaf community and the local community to build a relationship.” In August, Gallaudet partnered with Edens and Avant to host the DC Scoop, an ice cream festival featuring local vendors and an ice cream tasting competition. The event was a huge success for Gallaudet. Hundreds of people came to the area, many for the first time. “The ice cream event was an important thing
in terms of looking at it as a way to see that people were interested,” says Layman. Gallaudet proved that it could bring people—potential new customers—down to the market.
The Future For the next year, Gallaudet is planning several other events in the lots, mostly drawing upon the food culture of the market. Like the D.C. Scoop, the events will be short and non-committal. Pop-up restaurants, pop-up gardens, food truckeroos might make it onto the agenda for the coming spring. No matter the event, the deaf community will be taken into consideration. At the D.C. Scoop, there was a deaf judge and interpreters interspersed through the crowd to facilitate communication. “The goal is to make a place that feels equally welcoming to the hearing and deaf community,” says Swiller. While Gallaudet has not yet committed to long-term development plans, part of the planning process has been about brainstorming ideas for the space. For the initial process, the university hired the Urban Land Institute (ULI) to lead technical assistance panels with local stakeholders. ULI met with 64 people comprising students, faculty and alumni, local area merchants, officials from the D.C. government, city planners, and members of the Chambers of Commerce. This is important to Gallaudet. “The University takes its place in the community very seriously,” says Swiller. “Any decision we make will be well thought out.” The ULI report suggested mixed-retail and housing for the Sixth Street spot, a common transition for many warehouse markets. This has been successful in places like Ferry Market in San Francisco and Pike’s Place in Seattle. The creation of dormitories along Sixth Street “will create a campus that is livelier and will reinforce Gallaudet’s sense of community,” according to a memo from Gallaudet President Alan T. Hurwitz. These suggestions are by no means definitive. President Hurwitz included a note at the end of the memo: “With all of these ideas, there is considerable discussion needed before we move to initiate these changes… We would, of course, not take any action without involving all needed parties--including our campus communities--regarding each recommendation.” For now, Gallaudet will be moving slowly to finalize the Campus Master Plan. They will be working with the City, the members of the community, and other development partners like Edens and Avant in the upcoming years. Swiller says, “We’ve been in this community for 150 years, and we plan to be here for 150 more.” ★ capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 47
capitolstreets news
DC Clean Rivers Project Digs into a Dirty Problem by Gwyn Jones
D
C has a plumbing problem – a big one. When it rains, underneath a third of the city, raw sewage mixes with storm water, overwhelming the antiquated combined sewer system and dumping about 3 billion gallons of highly polluted water into area waterways. About 2 billion goes into the Anacostia alone. Big problems require big solutions. So, at the Blue Plains Wastewater Treatment Plant in the far southwest corner of Washington, the largest infrastructure project since Metrorail is now underway. Starting with a modest groundbreaking in October, DC Water’s Clean Rivers Project (www.dcwater.com/cleanrivers) is ramping up its first phase at Blue Plains. Undaunted by the cold wind and rain that greeted attendees at the October 12 ceremony, DC Water General Manager George Hawkins described the $2.6 billion project with such enthusiasm, you would hardly have known he was talking about a sewage tunnel. “There can be no overestimating the scale of this project - it’s absolutely huge,” said Hawkins. “The machine our teams will use to build these tunnels is the size of a football field, and needs to be assembled in pieces underground. And because of this work, no single institution is doing more than ours to improve the District’s waterways.” The Clean Rivers Project is necessitated by a 2005 federal consent decree that mandates DC to drastically reduce the amount of raw sewage that flows into the Potomac and Anacostia rivers, as well as Rock Creek, every year due to Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs). The new infrastructure will allow virtually all of the wastewater and storm water to be captured and stored so that it can be cleaned at Blue Plains before being released into the Potomac. “[Blue Plains] is the original recycling facility,” Hawkins said. 48 ★ HillRag | January 2012
The DC Water Clean Rivers Project. Photo: Pamela Mooring, DC Water
The first tunnel system, and the largest, will serve the Anacostia River. The Blue Plains Tunnel, the first part of that system, will run from Blue Plains in far Southwest to RFK Stadium. The 23-foot diameter tunnel is a large as a Metrorail tunnel, and at 100 feet deep, it will cross under both the Anacostia and the Metro Green Line. Tunnel segments south of RFK Stadium, together with their surface hydraulic facilities and a tunnel dewatering pump station, are scheduled to be operating by March 2018, providing relief to the Anacostia first. A second segment, which extends north of RFK Stadium, is required to be completed by 2025. For many residents along the tunnel’s path, the prospects of a Metro-sized undertaking in their neighborhood might raise fears of torn-up streets and disrupted lives for a decade. But Carlton Ray, Director of the Clean Rivers Project DC Water, noted that “One of the beauties of tunneling is that we’ll be underground most of the time. Most folks won’t know we’re building a $1.8 billion project for the Anacostia River
system.” The only places where surface disruptions will occur, Ray said, is where the four shafts will be built along the route: two at Blue Plains, one at the Joint Base Anacostia (Bolling) base, one at Poplar Point and one near Nationals Ball Park. “And those disruptions will only be for several months, versus years-long tunneling,” Ray said. As an added benefit, the massive tunnel project will generate muchneeded jobs for District residents. Ray said that all DC Water’s contracts for the project require “first source agreement,” which means that 50% of all new hires will come from the District. In other words, Ray said, “People that we’re hiring will need to come from the District first.” Ray suggested that those interested in being considered for jobs on the project contact their local labor unions. Both labor and operators’ unions have worker training programs in place, Ray said.
Clean Rivers Project Mitigates Antiquated System Prior to the early 1900s, DC’s
wastewater and storm water systems used the same pipes. These combined sewers still serve both sanitary (wastewater) flow and storm water drainage in the downtown area and in older portions of DC Water’s service area, largely on the eastern side of the city. Combined sewer overflows (CSOs) occur during storm “events” where rain runoff overwhelms the capacity of the combined sewer system, and it can’t convey the mixture of wastewater and storm water to the treatment plant. As Hawkins explained, “A lot of rain fills up the pipes and the overflow goes into the rivers – and people’s basements.” It doesn’t take much rain -- more than a quarter of an inch is enough to send a filthy mixture of sewage and storm water from the combined sewer system into DC’s waterways through 53 outfalls on the Potomac and Anacostia rivers, and Rock Creek. CSOs contain material that contributes to high bacteria levels in the rivers, making the Anacostia in particular dangerous to human health. Not only is the river unswimmable; eating fish from the Anacostia is dangerous as well. The Potomac and Rock Creek are also affected and should be avoided after a rain. The organic material in CSOs can contribute to low dissolved oxygen levels, which can contribute to a potential for fish stress or fish kills, especially in summer months. During CSOs “floatables” such as plastic bottles and Styrofoam cups add tons of debris to the waterways, which looks bad and interferes with both wildlife and human activities on the rivers and along their banks. According to Ray, CSOs happen 78-80 times per year, releasing some 3 billion gallons of sewage directly into area waterways per year. Once this infrastructure project is completed, DC Water estimates that CSOs will occur only 4 times per year on average.
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Other Solutions DC Water is beginning discussions with the parties on reopening the 2005 agreement (??? Clean River agreement? Alluded to in earlier paragraph but this isn’t clear). The goal would be to explore green-development technologies that could reduce or eliminate future pieces of the project, create jobs, green the District and reduce rate increases for customers. Other cities, notably Philadelphia, have proposed CSO solutions that rely heavily on green techniques instead of tunnels. Brent Bolin, Director of Advocacy for the Anacostia Watershed Society, acknowledged that the Anacostia tunnel is necessary because the CSO problem is so great.”We need to make this river healthy,” he said. “But we are also supportive of ways to get to the same goal with green infrastructure. There is a concern about the energy needed to pump and hold and treat all that water, so that needs to be considered as well.” Bolin pointed out that as more storm water is captured on site through a variety of green infrastructure strategies, it will take less energy to capture and treat water throughout the city. In addition, the tunnel, although necessary, doesn’t provide any visible community benefits, while many green infrastructures do – creating green space, reducing urban heat island effect, etc. Like Hawkins, Bolin hopes that the District can eliminate the need for some of the later tunnels by incentivizing and implementing green infrastructure throughout the city. “Philadelphia is doing a good job,” Bolin said, noting that the city studied its CSO problem and concluded that they could meet the terms of its consent decree, save money, and green their neighborhoods by investing in green infrastructure instead of tunnels. “If [DC Water] took 5% of the tunnel costs and turned it into green infrastructure, I’m betting they would get more bang for their buck with the green infrastructure,” Bolin said.
DC Water Rate Payers Foot the Bill Most of the $2.6 billion to pay for this massive undertaking is
coming from DC Water rate payers in the form of an “impervious surface area charge.” Rather than an across-the-board rate hike, this kind of charge not only affects those who use water but also those whose properties generate large volumes of storm water runoff and contribute more to the District’s CSO problem. To illustrate how this works, DC Water’s Pamela Mooring explained that normally a large shopping center might not use a lot of water compared to an office building. However, a shopping center has a large parking lot and large roof area – impervious surfaces that catch rainwater and send it rushing into storm sewers. The impervious surface area charge is a way to make sure that properties that contribute more to the problem are also paying more toward the cost of fixing it. The District Department of the Environment is developing regulations that would create incentives for property owners to implement storm water capture strategies, such as rain gardens, green roofs, etc. Under the proposed regulations, property owners who capture more storm water on site would receive discounts off their impervious surface area charges. As proposed, the discounts would be retroactive to 2009, when the impervious surface area charge went into effect. DDOE has received the first round of comments and is expecting to have revised regulations out for public comment toward the end of the year or early 2012. Incentives do exist for homeowners to “go green,” Bolin said, pointing out that DC has an “amazing” program called Riversmart Communities. “Everyone who cares about the District should get involved with the Riversmart Homes program (http://ddoe.dc.gov/riversmarthomes),” he urged. The program provides government assistance to homeowners to install rain gardens and other green infrastructure, for which the homeowner has only a small copay. “Our dominant land use is residential,” Bolin said, “and if we don’t address runoff from residential properties, we’ll never reach our clean water goals.” ★
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Final Phase for H Street Streetcar by Dana Bell
I
n June of 2011, H Street was finally cleared of the cement blockades and Caterpillars that blanketed the street for the past four years. The streetcar tracks run down the road, passing by the newly constructed station stops that jut expectantly into the street. Phase 1 of the H Street-Benning Road Streetcar was completed with a ribbon cutting by Mayor Gray in late June, and Phase 2 has finally begun. It’s a slow, painstaking process. As DDOT holds meetings with residents and business owners, the details of the plan get hammered out. Where is the connection to Union Station? Where do the cars go at night? How will they turn around? Step by step, meeting by meeting, the first part of D.C.’s streetcar system starts to take shape.
The Route This little leg of the streetcar system is just 2.2 miles out of a system that will eventually stretch 37 miles, serving all eight wards, and filling in the gaps left by Metro. The lines of track currently installed as part of
50 ★ HillRag | January 2012
the H Street/Benning Road Great Streets program in 2007 stretch from Benning Road and 24th St. NE to H Street and 3rd Street NE. Future track work as part of Phase 2 will extend the line to its western destination at Union Station and an eastern destination at Benning Road and Oklahoma Avenue. One difficulty on the western end has been finding a suitable connection to Union Station. The connection with Metro, Circulator buses, MARC trains and Amtrak would connect the streetcar not just with residents of Washington, but with people arriving here from across the country. Up until early December, DDOT was considering several routes to the transit hub, either down 2nd or 3rd street. Technical considerations and community backlash towards the suggested routes prompted DDOT and the Mayor to make a final decision. “The right way is on the main thoroughfare,” Mayor Gray announced at the Quarterly Update Meeting on December 6th. “We will not be going through somebody’s neighborhood to get to Union Station.”
Instead the interim western terminus (interim while the rest of the routes are being constructed) will be in the middle of the Hopscotch bridge next to Union Station. This was met with general approval from the residents. “They picked the route we all thought was best anyway,” said David Holmes, the Commissioner for ANC 6A03. It doesn’t lead directly to the Metro, but from the bridge it is a five-minute walk through the parking garage and down through the station. The turn-around at each end is not so much a turn as it is a switching of direction. The cars will go backwards along the bridge and cross on an X in the middle of the road, much like they were making a left-hand turn. They will then continue down the proper side of the road. On the eastern end of the line, the final destination will also host the Car Barn and Training Center for the cars. This will be where the cars are housed at night, as well as where repairs are made. The most recent choice for the CBTC is a lot next to Spingarn Senior High School. This choice, also
announced in early December, is extremely preliminary, and has not yet been worked out with the administration of the school. “The only thing right now is working on the coordination with DCPS on proper acquisition of lands,” Hernandez said. The Car Barn at Spingarn has stirred up the newest back of controversies for various reasons—for bringing an industrial element next to a school, for congestion on the roads, for clashing with the residential character of the neighborhood— but DDOT has several practical reasons for picking the Spingarn site. “The location is conveniently located next to the street car,” explained Ronaldo “There are only two buildings to demolish, so construction can start soon.” The plans for the CBTC are ambitious. A LEED-certified building, the training center will ideally be a place for students and residents to learn about streetcar operations, skills that could be useful as streetcar systems catch on nationally. At the December 6 meeting, DDOT said that it “anticipates working with DCPS and UDC to develop a training program.”
The Car The streetcars that will be rolling down the tracks are not the trolleys of the olden days. DDOT has purchased three sleek red and yellow cars with the signature swoop of the beloved Circulator buses, and is acquiring more as a part of Phase 2. “Right now it matches the rest of the transit system,” Hernandez says, “But we’re still fine tuning the logo to make it visible, user friendly, and recognizable.” At 66 feet, the streetcar is about a third longer than the Circulator bus, but can carry 144 passengers, almost three times as many as the bus. The cars are similar in many ways to buses, with important differences that are meant to elevate the experience. Like buses, they will be driven, although the drivers are called conductors on streetcars. They will operate in mixed traffic, obeying regular traffic rules and signals. Of course, unlike a bus, they can never leave their lane. “We’re working to integrate SmarTrip so that we can really create as easy an experience as possible,” says Hernandez. The platforms of the streetcar set it apart from traditional bus boarding. Built on a “bulb dock,” the sidewalk swells out into the street to meet the streetcar. It is level with the floor of the car, eliminating the need to kneel down to the curb like buses. Instead it offers an ADA compliant system that allows for easier access for people with difficulties with mobility. “They take away two or three parking spaces, but they allow you to walk directly in or roll your wheelchair directly into the car,” Holmes says. “It’s a lot easier for people with canes and mobility enhancements.” In Portland, the ease of boarding has contributed greatly to the success of the city’s streetcar system. “We’ve had a positive response to streetcars which relates to a number of factors,” explained Rick Gustafson, the Executive Director of Portland Streetcar, Inc. “The quality of ride, the easy ability to get on it, and probably most important is the certainty of knowing where it’s going.”
Powering a Streetcar Of course, one of the other benefits of the streetcar is that it runs on electricity instead of on gas. The decreased pollution is one of the most appealing aspects of installing a streetcar, but it brings in a whole new set of infrastructure: wires and substations. The streetcars run on an Overhead Catenary System (OCS), which brings the power from a supply source to the car. The electricity runs a circuit through the streetcar, passing from the overhead “contact wire,”
through the outstretched arm reaching from the top of the car, the “pantograph.” The pantograph collects the electricity and passes it back through the steel rails, completing the circuit. The system is made up of two important parts: the cantilever holds the contact wires along most of the track, and the span wire, which is used when the streetcar turns. The cantilever refers to the beam perpendicular to the light poles that will go along H Street and Benning Road, holding up the wires that power the streetcar. Span wires are a collection of wires that connect to the pantograph when the car is turning, and will so far only be installed along the turn from H Street to Benning Road. While the wiring of the system has been a source of tension between the Capitol Hill Restoration Society and DDOT, David Vozollo attempted to dispel fears about the presence of the wires at the December 6 meeting, explaining that they will be about as thick as a pen. The electricity will be supplied to the cars through substations running along H Street. DDOT is planning for three substations. One will be at the end of the Hopscotch Bridge. The Mid-Line station will be on the south side of 12th and H St, about halfway down the line. The final substation will be located within the Car Barn Training Center.
Implementation Among the residents and business owners of H Street, the streetcar seems like it’s almost within reach. “Now we can see a fairly clear plan between now and starting with the cars,” says Holmes. “There’s some relief that we’re finally going to get this thing; we can see the end.” Nate Mines, the owner of Dynamic Wellness on Third and H, is looking forward to the bragging rights that will come with the streetcar. “How many cities do you know have a streetcar? And now we’re on the list… We’re on the cutting edge.” The City Council is certainly committed to pushing it through. The Mayor has allotted $99.3 million in the 6 Year Capital Budget for the streetcar, with $2 million in Federal funding for planning. The funding for the rest of the system—all 35 miles of it—will come from a mix of local, public-private partnership, and Federal money. This commitment assures that, despite the lengthy process, D.C. will soon get a streetcar. “The Mayor’s office is behind it, the councilmembers are behind it,” says ANC6A Chair Tony Richardson. “Once it’s rolling down H Street, people won’t even remember this.” ★
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Virginia Ave. Tunnel Project Continues on Track Concepts Under Consideration Released For Public Comment article and photos by Gwyn Jones
O
n Nov. 30 CSX released 11 concepts for Virginia Avenue Tunnel Project, which the rail corporation is undertaking to increase its ability to deliver freight to the midAtlantic and Northeast United States. The concepts are part of the environmental and historic review process that CSX must undertake to get its permit for the project from the District Department of Transportation. Over 110 people gathered in the Nationals Ball Park conference center to hear the latest update on project from the CSX project team and DDOT officials, offer their comments and air concerns about the project. According to CSX information, the project involves upgrading the existing single-track tunnel, which was built in the early 1900s, so that it can accommodate two tracks and double-
stacked intermodal freight containers and eliminate the choke-point created by the current tunnel. The 107-yearold tunnel would require major rehabilitation and possibly reconstruction regardless, according to CSX. The project concepts, although preliminary, fall into several different categories and run the gamut from the “no build” alternative, where CSX would do nothing, to rebuilding the tunnel using a variety of methods, to rerouting rail freight traffic around the city. The concepts are posted on CSX’s project website, at http://www. virginiaavenuetunnel.com/project-resources/. Disruption to traffic patterns, access to affected neighborhoods by emergency vehicles, vibration from construction and trains, and noise were among the many concerns expressed
by the people who spoke during the open comment period. Of the different concepts offered, the ones that involved open trench construction raised the most concerns from neighbors in attendance. “Open trenches and trains are terrifying in the context of small children,” said Virginia Ave. SE resident Mark Baker during his turn at the comment microphone. Several attendees were skeptical of CSX’s rerouting concept, which showed routes that added 800 miles to a typical freight trip. Fred Millar, a local activist and environmental consultant, questioned whether CSX was portraying the rerouting options realistically, noting that CSX is currently rerouting hazardous materials around the city using interchange agreements with Norfolk Southern Railroad that take (?)freight only 50 miles around
ABOVE: Concept 2 would require building a temporary track in an open trench along Virginia Ave. and several residences. Diagram: CSX RIGHT: Concept 9: NCPC recommended that CSX develop permanent route outside the District. The Indian Head Alignment is one of two suggested alignments. Diagram: CSX
52 ★ HillRag | January 2012
the city. Tom Murta of CSX responded that CSX does not discuss the routes used for the voluntary rerouting of such materials “for a variety of reasons.” Two concepts that did not get much attention during the meeting were the National Capital Planning Commission’s recommendations to create a new route that would take freight traffic around the city. NCPC estimated the cost for either of these two concepts (Concept 9 and Concept 10) between $3.2 and $4.5 billion, but they would provide a direct rail freight that would go around the city. CSX did not provide cost estimates for any of its concepts. Noting that the costs and impacts of each concept would be different, David Perry, a member of the Barracks Row Main Street board, asked how
Fred Millar: Local activist Fred Millar questions CSX representatives about the CSX rerouting alternative.
comments on the Virginia Avenue Tunnel project can be submitted throughout the NEPA process to contact@virginiaavenuetunnel.com or via mail to: Steve Plano, Parsons Brinckerhoff; 1401 K Street NW, Suite 701; Washington, DC 20005.
Skeptical Attendees: Residents listen as the CSX project team presents alternative concepts for the Virginia Ave. Tunnel Project.
they would be balanced. Faisal Hameed, Manager of DDOT’s Project Development and Environment Division and that agency’s point person for this project, said that cost is only one function. “That’s why you do NEPA, cost, traffic, historic and other assessments,” he said. The large majority of those who commented, and most of the meeting attendees, were from the immediate area of the tunnel. Ron Mc Bee, chair of ANC 6D in Southwest, was a notable exception. “They (CSX) have ignored a good part of the community, but they’ve promised better communication in the future,” McBee said. Currently, the scope of the environmental assessment does not extend beyond a couple of blocks at either end of the existing tunnel. No evaluation is currently being done on the impacts of the additional freight traffic that would be moving through communities in Southwest and Southeast where the trains travel above ground. Whether or not they attended the meeting, people can still comment by email until Jan. 30, 2012 on the materials presented. General
Completion of the EA and Section 106 Review Needed for Project to Move Forward Before CSX can proceed, it must complete at least an Environmental Assessment and a Section 106 review. Hameed stressed that while the project is solely the responsibility of CSX, it must obtain a permit from DDOT. Hameed insisted that his agency will look out for the best interests of the District and its neighborhoods. The process underway entails preparation of an Environmental Assessment and then securing construction permits from DDOT and the Federal Highway Administration. Assuming approvals go forward on schedule, CSX anticipates construction beginning in 2012 and completion in 2015, meaning that the SE neighborhoods could be dealing with construction impacts for about three years. A Section 106 review is required of any project that involves federal agencies, federal funding or grants, according the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 requires federal agencies to consider the effects of projects they carry out, approve or fund on historic properties. In the Section 106 process, a historic property is a prehistoric or historic district, site, building, structure or object included in or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. ★
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capitolstreets ANC reports
NEWS ANC 6A
by Roberta Weiner
To Cap or Not to Cap? After many months of discussion, in September, the commission decided that the time was ripe to hold public meetings on the possibility of instituting a cap or moratorium on the number of CT (tavern) alcohol licenses allocated to establishments on H Street NE within the ANC’s boundaries. (A cap on licenses is a ceiling on the number of a specific kind of license permitted in an area. If a licensee’s Iicense is cancelled, then someone else can apply for the license; with a moratorium, if a license is cancelled it is lost and won’t be replaced.) It had been several years since the Commission had considered the issue, the “entertainment district” instituted by the H Street Zoning Overlay had grown, and several local residents had raised the need for that discussion to take place. The meetings were held in September and October, with local community members, business owners, ABRA representatives and others sharing their views. While there were widely differing opinions on what actions should be taken, there was no clear consensus that a cap or moratorium should be pursued at this time. There was strong feeling that the community would like to see more retail opportunities, enhanced parking protection for residents, and 54 ★ HillRag | January 2012
a reduction in the amount of noise. To that end, the ABL Committee presented the full ANC with a policy proposal asking that the ANC • remains actively engaged with DDOT in efforts to implement the H Street Performance Parking Program (PPP) which is designed to ensuring better access to residential parking places for residents; • continues to work with the Department of Public Works’ enforcement to ensure that that the PPP parking protections are adequately enforced • works with business owners to seek continued assistance in keeping patron noise to a low level as they leave the commercial district and enter the residential district, and works on designing a sign to be placed at exits, and on streets. • encourages the business community to work with the Commission’s Community Outreach Committee to seek funds for the design and production of such signs; • gives careful consideration to pubic space permits for outdoor cafes, in order to ensure that noise and trash generated by such establishments are mitigated. • modifies its standard voluntary agreement so that every CR license will require that its kitchens stay open until one hour before closing, unlike now where there is a two-hour limit, allowing the establishments to behave more like bars.
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Will periodically hold meetings, in coordination with ANC 6A, to consider whether a cap or moratorium is warranted for H Street. Finally, the proposal states that because there were a disproportionate number of tavern (CT) licenses, implemented, as opposed to restaurant (CR) licenses, on H Street, the ANC will, without seeking a cap, will encourage new establishments to seek CR licenses. The Committee proposal said that the ANC should protest any new CT license. After some lively backand-forth, the word was changed to may protest any new CT license on a case-by-case basis if it will adversely impact neighbors in the immediate area. Several people in the audience did not feel the proposal went far enough to satisfy their concerns, but the Commission voted 6-0-1 to support the proposal. (Commissioner Alberti is the interim chair of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board and does not participate in discussions or vote on these issues.)
$5000 Grant Approved for EliotHine Library The ANC’s Community Outreach Committee received an appli-
cation for a $4000 grant for books and other media from the EliotHine Middle School PTA. It seems that when the two schools consolidated, Eliot had no library and Hine’s was very small, outdated and in poor repair, with only about 100-200 volumes for use by the Eliot library. Ms. Bradshaw, Eliot’s part-time librarian, is committed to bring books to the students. She reads to the students and teaches them computer skills, but without materials, there is very little she can do to satisfy their curiosity or increase their skills. DCPS has no resources or plans to provide additional materials, and when the Capitol Hill Community Foundation paid for new libraries or the local elementary schools several years ago, middle schools were not included. The CHCF recently presented the school with funds to buy two mobile carts, and now their PTSA is requesting funds to buy books ANC members were frustrated that there was not adequate funding to provide school libraries with necessary materials for the students, but Elizabeth Nelson pointed out that starting from next to nothing will give them the room to build a stateof-the-art facility. Nick Alberti went as far as to ask for an increase in the
ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION 6A DAVID HOLMES, CHAIR, 202-251-7079 grant from $4000 to $5000, and after being assured that the ANC budget would handle the increase, Commissioner David Holmes said the grant would help make up for the failure of DCPS, and it was approved 6-0-1, with Commissioner Mack not voting..
Pick-Up/Drop-Off Lane at J.O. Wilson School Approved J.O. Wilson Elementary School is on K and 6th Streets NE in ANC 6C, but it is directly across the street from Commissioner Adam Healy’s Single Member District. He is working with ANC 6C Commissioner Tony Goodman on traffic calming measures for K Street, which gets a great deal of overflow traffic from H Street, particularly during rush hours. More importantly, they are now supporting efforts to get a drop-off/.pick-up zone located in front of J.O. Wilson. While traffic calming measures are necessary for the entire length of K Street, including such initiatives as the installation of bike lanes and the removal of rush hour parking restrictions that keep cars from parking on the street, adding two lanes of rush hour traffic, access to the school is currently particularly dangerous for children and parents. The principal and PTA have sent a letter to DDOT requesting the drop-off/pick-up lane, and the Commission voted 5-0-1 (with Commissioner Mack abstaining) to send a letter to DDOT in support of ANC 6C and its efforts to implement the lane.
In Other Actions… •
In other actions, ANC 6A Dealt with several liquor-related issues. Since a Voluntary Agreement (VA) has been signed, it voted to support a license for Pho Bar and Grill, a new restaurant at 1360 H Street, and approved a public space application for a sidewalk café and indoor/outdoor bar at a new restaurant at 1128 H Street NE. It also voted to protest the license for a new establishment, Central, at 1200 H Street NE, until a VA is worked out, and similarly, voted to protest a sub-
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stantial change in the license for Rose’s Dream at 1370 H Street NE until a VA is approved. Approved meeting dates for 2012. January 12; February 9; March 8; April 12; May 10; June 14; July 12; August – no meeting; September 13; October 11; November 8; December 13; January 10, 2013. Agreed unanimously to send a letter to the Department of Public Works requesting regular street sweeping for the alleys near the H Street commercial district. January 28, 2012 at the Sherwood Rec Center, 1 to 3 PM. It will be an interactive workshop to consider alternatives to the community on the reconfiguration of intersections, adjustments to parking pedestrian safety treatments, transit stop relocation and amenity options, addition of left turn lanes, removal of travel lanes and landscaping improvements.
Serving the Kingman Park, Linden, Near Northeast, North Lincoln Park, Rosedale, and Stanton Park communities
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ANC 6A generally meets the second Thursday of the month, 7 pm, at Miner Elementary School, 601 15th Street, NE.
www.anc6a.org ANC 6A, 2nd Thursday, January 12 Alcohol Beverage Licensing Committee Tuesday, January 24, 7pm • Sherwood Recreation Center Corner of 10th & G Streets, NE • Chair, Adam Healey, 556-0215 Transportation & Public Space Committee 3rd Monday, January 16, 7pm • Community Room of the Capitol Hill Towers 900 G St. NE • Chair, Omar Mahmud, 546-1520 Economic Development & Zoning Committee 3rd Wednesday, January 18, 7pm • Sherwood Recreation Center Corner of 10th & G Streets, NE • Chair, Drew Ronneberg, 431-4305 Community Outreach Committee 3rd Monday, January 16, 7pm • Church of the Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith Annex 1235 C Street, NE • Chair, Elizabeth Nelson, 543-3512
Please check the Community Calendar on the website for cancellations and changes of venue. Attend a meeting! Volunteer for a committee! It’s your ANC!
The next meeting of ANC 6A will be on Thursday, January 12, at 7 p.m. at Miner Elementary School, 601 15th Street NE.
ANC 6B by Emily Clark
A
genial holiday spirit prevailed for most of the ANC 6B December meeting, where there were few contentious issues, and only one vote that was not unanimous. The collegial atmosphere was threatened only at the end of the shorter-than-usual meeting, when arguments over internet gaming threatened to spoil the mood.
Comeback Kids Two applicants making return visits not only saw their requests unanimously approved, but also found themselves on the receiving end of praise from the Commission for their cooperation. Mark Menard, owner of the 18th Amendment bar and restaurant at 613 Pennsylvania Avenue,
Preserve and Protect Your Neighborhood Join the Capitol Hill Restoration Society CFC # 50747
202-543-0425 www.chrs.org capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 55
capitolstreets news appeared with revised plans to expand sidewalk seating outside the bar. Menard also agreed to remove banners outside the property. The application had been a sore point at the October ANC 6B meeting, when Menard appeared with prior approval for his project from the District Department of Transportation (which is supposed to wait for Commission input). The issue was resolved at the November meeting, as DDOT representatives announced a new entity to improve cooperation with the Commission. In unanimously approving the expansion, Commissioner Garrison suggested using Menard’s application as a blueprint for future requests to expand outdoor space and thanked the applicant for “hanging in with us” during the process. The Commission also voted unanimously to approve a request for variances to open a pet supply store and coffee shop at 1200 Potomac Avenue. The space is currently zoned residential, but the applicants re-appeared to present a list of reasons why the lot is not suitable for residential development. Commissioner Green noted that the property has been empty for three years and should be considered abandoned. “The neighbors have no objection to this project and would like to see something there,” she said.
Sidewalks and Streets, Concrete and Clay Commissioner Oldenburg said she has had discussions with DDOT that she hopes will lead to greater transparency in tracking and prioritizing sidewalk repairs. “DDOT will send a list of repairs and a list of new requests with a rating system of 1-5 (5 being most severe),” she said, noting that the budget for sidewalk repair is “a pitifully small $2.5 million, which includes staff.” She also said the Mayor’s office has asked for photos of sites needing repair to help assess priorities. Commissioner Garrison noted one site in the area that has been awaiting repairs for a decade, while Commissioner Campbell said he has 56 ★ HillRag | January 2012
taken and sent photographs, with little response or impact. Commissioner Pate called the repair budget “seriously undercapitalized—about $400 thousand per ward.”
to the District the first year and $13 million eventually. One Commissioner quipped, “Maybe we can use the money for sidewalk repair.”
1st Street, currently closed, north to Washington Hospital Center.
i-Game, You Game
ANC6B meets at the Hill Center, 921 Penn. Ave SE at 7 pm on the second Tuesday of the month.
The Association of American Medical Colleges has commissioned a building for the organization at 66640 New York Avenue NW, and because it is being built specifically for one entity it allowed the creation of a dramatic building taking advantage of its triangular site at New York Avenue and K Street at 6th Street NW. The design incorporates four historic buildings, which the developer seeks to save and they will be moved to a location on the site where they will all be together and used as part of the extensive retail space the developer is planning for the ground floor. The building will also feature wide sidewalk areas to match those on the other side of the streets; an interior two-story fountain that looks as though it spills out into the exterior of the building; renovation of the federal parcel at the western side of the structure which will become a public space. The project has already been endorsed by ANC 2C, DDOT, Office of Planning, and other agencies and organizations. They came before the ANC for support for two separate issues: The first is the developer is seeking zoning relief in three areas—a penthouse setback; a reduction in the number of provided parking spaces from the required 166 to 162, as it would require building an entire additional parking level to accommodate just the four spaces; and a change in the Mt. Vernon Square setback requirement. To meet the requirement, they would have had to ruin the look of their design by changing the New York Avenue side of the building and incur the expense of re-designing the top two floors. The second issue is the requirement that the development, because it is over 50,000 sq. of commercial space, has to go through a Large Tract Review, which is coordinated by the Office of Planning and allows interested parties, like city agencies, ANCs, and the community at large
Internet gaming was the hot potato topic of the evening, as Commissioner Glick introduced a resolution to support repealing the Lottery Modernization Amendment Act of 2010. The law, which has not yet been implemented, would make the District the first area in the nation to legalize internet gaming. Commissioner Glick decried the secretive process by which the gambling bill was approved, claiming that it was passed without public hearings or discussion. It was inserted into a budget bill by Council member Michael Brown. Council member Tommy Wells wants to repeal the bill and pass a new, more transparent one, with more public input. Most commissioners agreed that the Commission’s resolution should address process, not product, and that some of the resolution’s language was too speculative. Commissioner Glick agreed to remove three controversial sections of the resolution, after which the Commission voted unanimously to support repeal of the i-gaming act. Representing the DC Chief Financial Officer, David Umansky took issue with some of Commissioner Glick’s claims. “You need to know the facts,” Umansky said. “There were hearings, and you received long and thorough answers to your questions.” He also noted that no action will be taken to implement the law until the Council acts. In arguing for the law, Umansky noted that security measures are in place to insure that gaming is blocked from schools, churches and public buildings. He also said that a federal law is being considered, in which case all profits would go to the federal government. “If we have our own i-gaming, we could be grandfathered in, when and if Congress acts,” he said, adding that gaming could bring $2-3 million
ANC 6C by Roberta Weiner
Meeting with Walmart Executives Next Month Walmart executives have agreed to a meeting/workshop with the members of the ANC and a Commission-appointed Task Force that has been working on the many issues surrounding the store’s arrival in this area. Commissioner Keith Silver announced at the ANC meeting that a joint discussion will take place within the next month. The four-hour session will be facilitated by former Congressman Walter Fauntroy and someone of Walmart’s choosing and, it is hoped that employment, transportation construction and other matters can be openly discussed. Because it is a matter-of-right building, meaning that the developer does not need any clearances from the ANC or the Zoning Commission, until now there has been no effort on Walmart’s part to meet with members of the community, or, more importantly, with the ANC. However, through the efforts of Commissioner Keith Silver, who said that “people have very diverse views about the project,” the long-awaited meeting with occur. One of the six new Walmart stores slated for construction in the District, it will be located at New Jersey Avenue and I Street NW, just behind Gonzaga High School. As has already been made public, the blocksquare matter-of-right building, which will feature ground floor nonWalmart retail, will have the store on the second floor. Walmart will open
New Building at Junction of New York Ave, and K Street
to weigh in on the project before the developer applies for a building permit. The Commission was enthusiastic about the project and voted unanimously to approve both requests.
Proposed Changes in Northeast Traffic Flow Commissioner Tony Goodman has a serious concern about the traffic on K Street, NE. It is a residential thoroughfare that has become a rush hour alternative to H Street NE. Right now, there are two lanes of traffic, and two of parking, except during rush hour, when there are three lanes of traffic, creating hazardous driving conditions, Mr. Goodman took his concern to the Transportation and Public Space Committee, which unanimously approved the suggestion to write a letter to DDOT Administrator Terry Bellamy to end the three-lane periods and add traffic calming measures like bike lanes to the street. The plan would also include the drop-off/pick-up at J.O. Wilson School at 4th and K. The full ANC agreed unanimously. In another traffic-related step in Northeast, the Commission voted unanimously to ask DDOT to install stop signs at 6th and I Streets NE. There is currently construction on three of the four corners of this intersection of two one-way streets, and it is particularly difficult for drivers and pedestrians to see one another.
Church Raze Request Moves to Mayor’s Agent for Hearing The request to raze three buildings by the Third Street Church of God, rejected by the ANC last month, was also rejected by the Historic Preservation Review Board, supporting its staff report that the request was “inconsistent with historic preservation law. HPRB does not believe the buildings meet the two tests to approve razing:1. a project of special merit, or 2. economic hardship. Their plan is to use the space gained for parishioner parking. Meanwhile, which the Church had not previously revealed, they had maintained one building, which they used for storage, while letting the other two deteriorate, and are now requesting raze permits for the three
buildings. Now the church has appealed the denial of support to the Mayor’s Agent, who is empowered to overturn the HPRB decision. But the ANC’s Zoning Committee believes that as the church’s refusal to maintain the buildings is “a self-inflicted wound,” the raze request should be opposed by the full ANC, which voted unanimously to deny its support and to authorize the Zoning Committee to draft letter to the Mayor’s Agent.
In Other Actions… •
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In other actions, ANC 6C… Voted to approve an alcohol license for Hikari Sushi and Sake Bar, at 644 H Street, and to protest until a Voluntary Agreement is signed, the proposed license for Xclusive, a proposed threestory African restaurant and club at 707 H Street NE, Heard an update on the Crucible, a private sexually-oriented club at 16 M Street NE, the same block housing other establishments such as Fur and Ibiza, and heard from the owner, Frazier Botsford, that he tries to keep the establishment as discrete as possible. The club has applied for a building permit, and there was consensus that the ANC would discuss whether to appeal it.
The next meeting of ANC 6C will be on January 11, 2012, at the Heritage Foundation, 214 Massachusetts Avenue NE, at 7 p.m.
ANC 6D
Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6C ANC 6C serves Capitol Hill, Union Station, NoMa, Mt. Vernon, Sursum Corda, and downtown as far west as 9th Street NW. The community is invited to attend/participate. Monthly meetings are generally the second Wednesday of the month, 7 pm, Heritage Foundation, 214 Massachusetts Avenue N.E. Call for information: (202) 547-7168. www.anc6c.org Alcohol Beverage Licensing Committee First Tuesday, 7 pm. Contact (202) 669-5184
Planning, Zoning, and Environment Committee First Wednesday, 7 pm., NPR 635 Massachusetts Avenue N.W.
Community Outreach/Grants Committee Contact anc6c07@aol.com
Transportation and Public Space Committee First Thursday, 7 pm. Contact (202) 641-4264
by Roberta Weiner
The Florida Rock Development Is Back Again Florida Rock is back again, and this time, the massive mixed-use development just south of the ballpark may finally be on its way. It’s been around a long time: the developers, FRP Development/Florida Rock Properties, brought the first iteration of the project to ANC 6D in 1998, with a plan to develop the site where its concrete plant, until just recently, stood. In 2008, as it was seeking seccapitalcommunitynews.com ★ 57
ond stage zoning clearances, the project went the way of so many in Southeast because of the economic downturn, But now, with a new financial partner, MRP Realty, new architects, S,K &I, and landscaping firm, Oculus, they’re trying again, still with a four-phase plan, but with modifications in all four parts. And MRP executives came to the ANC to talk about it. The first phase that will be built, at the eastern edge of the project (just east of South Capitol Street and south of the stadium’s Grand Stairway), has changed most radically. Previously an office building, now it will be a ninestory U- shaped residential building with a courtyard, facing toward the river; It will have 300-350 units and 286 below-grade parking spaces. The previous retail component of the building will remain at 12,500 square feet, as it was in the past, but the Zoning Commission filing requests that 7,000 of it be “flex space” that can be used as “residential amenity space” until the retail fills in. There will also be open space on the buildings’ east side, which they are calling Anacostia Plaza, that will provide views to the river, and “passive recreation space.” They plan on beginning construction in the second quarter of 2013 and welcome the first moveins in early 2015 and have requested permission to use the other building sites for temporary uses such as parks, and a farmers market so that it will not be empty space until the construction of the buildings begins. Another feature that remains from the previous plans includes the broad waterfront Esplanade, an integral part of the Anacostia Riverwalk that connects with Diamond Teague Park, The Yards Park and the Navy Yard. The uses of the remaining three phases remain unchanged, and include another residential building, a hotel and an office building. Also unchanged is that the second and third phases are dependent on the route of the new South Capitol Street bridge as the north end of the current bridge covers the land between the site of two of the buildings.
CSX Tunnel Still a Work in Progress Stephan Flippen, of CSX, presented an update of the rail line’s plans to deepen the tunnel that runs across Virginia Avenue, under the Southwest Freeway and very close to residential neighborhoods across Southeast. 58 ★ HillRag | January 2012
The project is now in the NEPA (National Environmental Planning Assessment) phase and they are working with the Federal Highway Administration, National Capitol Planning Commission, National Park Service and DDOT to determine the best options for constructing the tunnel. There are several options that are currently being considered • Take no action – do not rebuild and continue using the tunnel as it is • Rebuild the tunnel, with the following alternatives: temporary track to the south of the current tracks; temporary tracks to the north of the tracks; a serpentine temporary track (north and south); a second permanent tunnel; the current tunnel; existing railroads and/or trucks • Reroute outside the District – permanently eliminated the current freight route through DC; alternative route or modes: deep tunnel; Indian Head route; Dahlgren route; existing railroads and trucks. There have been several community meeting and the tunnels’ neighbors have been outspoken in their concerns about noise, dust and traffic disruption. One unanswered question is the possibility of using the same tracks over which hazardous materials are transported, but CSX is not forthcoming on where those tracks are located. The NEPA process began in July, and a final decision should be reached by July 2012. There is now a public comment period, which has been extended until January 30, and there will be more public meetings as the process moves forward.
Southwest Post Office To Be Replaced ANC Chair Ron McBee confirmed what had been rumored for months, that the Southwest Post Office at I and Half Streets SW is to be closed at the end of 2012. The good news, however, is that the closing is not a part of the current US Postal Service reductions in service, but due to the expiration of the lease of the rented building, and while the station will close, a search is underway for new space.
soil, sunlight and canopy space to continue to develop. In addition, they plan to allow for better sight lines into the park for security, allowing police and cleanup crews to have easier access to the park area.
Lansburgh Park Lansburgh Park, between M and I Streets and Half and 2nd Streets Southeast was one of the first parks designed as part of the Southwest Urban Renewal Plan in 1955. Named for Mark Lansburgh, of the department store bearing his name, and the first chairman of the Redevelopment Land Agency that oversaw the massive redevelopment of southwest in the ‘50’s and ‘60’s, the park was designed as a green open space where children could play. The pavilion in the center of the park is part of the original design. The park, which was designed by the National Park Service, which had jurisdiction over the area, was returned to the District’s Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR). It was allowed to deteriorate and become a haven for drug dealers and children behaving badly. However, recently DPR has replaced the park’s benches and is beginning to care for the large, attractive and underused space. The Southwest Neighborhood Assembly (SWNA), under its Chair, Kael Anderson, has undertaken the upgrading of the park as a project. Anderson appeared at the ANC to ask for its support in applying to DPR to become the official “Friends of Lansburgh Park.” The Friends designation will enable SWNA to apply for grants and raise other funds to restore it to its original condition. DPR encourages the establishment of Friends organizations, but only allows one official group for each park. The Commission voted unanimously to support SWNA’s application.
In Other Actions… •
Southwest Parks Getting Attention As reported last month, the Commission voted to support the placement of ramps at the Town Center East Park near the library at 3rd and I Street SE. This month, Jack Chapman of the Urban Forestry Administration reported on the agency’s plans for restoring the park’s tree canopy. The goals of the project are to clean up the healthy trees, remove dead dying, diseased and overcrowded trees that are damaging the healthy trees, remove street trees that are crowding the others, and to create space for the remaining trees to have enough
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In other actions, the ANC Heard that last summer’s Southwest ArtsFest was a success, and that plans are moving forward for a second year event next summer. The organization’s board of directors will hold the group’s Annual Meeting on Tuesday, January 11, at 6 PM, in the basement of Westminster Church Agreed to support a WMATA request for a traffic study by DDOT of the traffic on 7th Street NW between Massachusetts Ave. and Indiana Ave. in order to facilitate a more effective traffic pattern for the 74 bus that serves SW.
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The next meeting of ANC 6D will be on Monday, January 9, at 7 PM at 1100 4th Street, 2nd floor DCRA hearing room. ★
capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 59
HILLRAG CROSSWORD It All Adds Up by Sally York and Myles Mellor Across: 1. Figure of speech 6. Unhealthy atmosphere 11. Flub 14. Sail closer into the wind 18. Confute 19. Pear variety 20. McCarthy novel, with “The” 22. Side squared, for a square 23. Points of light + baker’s dozen + the Olsen sisters? 27. Cellist, to friends 28. Show off one’s strength 29. Cold north wind of the Alps 30. Fold 31. Ill-suited 33. “Pow!” 34. Sonata, e.g. 35. Large, unspecified number 38. ___ in hand 39. Places to stash cash 44. Opponent 45. .0000001 joule 46. Blond shade 47. Empty 48. Check for accuracy 49. Not theirs 51. Belgium village 52. Fencing equipment 53. Anatomical sacs 54. TV club + half of a TV news magazine? 60. Cereal fruit 61. Former Serbian capital 62. Kind of clef 63. Cell divisions 65. Black shade 66. Leading lady? 69. Romantic pair 70. Bottom line 71. River craft 72. Man-Marchers + Stooges + Deadly Sins + seasons? 80. Distinctive air 81. Seating request 82. American broadcaster Bell, to friends 83. Bad marks? 84. Bog 85. Caesar’s farewell 86. High school class, for short 87. Cleo’s undoing 90. Clod chopper 91. Became more sharply inclined 94. Zodiac animal 95. Double 97. A Turner 98. Lent’s start, e.g.: Abbr. 99. Wrap 100. Scottish landowner 102. “Guilty,” e.g. 104. Apteryx australis 105. Language of Lahore 109. Presidential address + Beatles 113. Ashtabula’s lake
60 ★ HillRag | January 2012
114. Board partner 115. Sot 116. “Come here ___?” 117. Collectible frames 118. Econ. yardstick 119. Bank job 120. Dermatologist’s concerns
Down: 1. “Iliad” city 2. Ashcroft’s predecessor 3. Mind 4. Published 5. Addis Ababa’s land: Abbr. 6. Attacking like a bear 7. Miniature map 8. “Iliad” figure 9. Ham, to Noah 10. Spa treatment 11. Coastal raptors 12. Harassed 13. Churchill’s “so few”: Abbr. 14. Skinny 15. Organic compound 16. Pedal pushers 17. Buff 21. Most foolish 24. Bid 25. Ability to hit a target 26. Bugs 32. Watchman ___, Chinese Christian author 33. More contemptible 34. Like some bodies on a beach 35. Area 51 conveyances? 36. Grimace 37. Twisted one 38. Mozart contemporary 39. Kelly and namesakes 40. Barbara of “I Dream of Jeannie” 41. Doings 42. Right-hand pages 43. “Don’t go!” 50. Cranelike bird 51. Cuckoos 52. Do some cutting, maybe 53. Keyboard instrument 55. A Judd 56. ___ Master’s Voice 57. “It’s no ___!” 58. Bowel flusher 59. Yew food 63. Ballroom dance 64. Forever, poetically 65. Lockhart 66. Dagger handle 67. Plastic ___ Band 68. Former French coin 70. Like a shoe 71. Kind of drive 72. Blockheads 73. Fragrant oil 74. Jungle climber 75. “Cast Away” setting 76. Certain nymph
Crossword Author: Myles Mellor • www.themecrosswords.com • www. mylesmellorconcepts.com
Last Months Answers: 77. Bounce back, in a way 78. Carbon compound 79. Call for 86. Wide range 87. From side to side 88. Beau 89. ___ wow 92. Aristocracies 93. Reduce, as expenses 96. Name for a kitten 98. Cyst 99. Agrees (with) 100. Euros replaced them 101. Angle 102. Unit of loudness 103. Abnormal protuberance 104. Visored cap 106. Decomposes 107. Sonny and Cher, e.g. 108. Cemetery sights 109. “Wait a ___!” 110. Holiday drink 111. Supreme Court case surname 112. Elmer, to Bugs
Look for the Answers HERE, Next Month!
Community Life Spotted on The Hill
To View a Mockingbird Text and photo by Peter Vankevich
L
et’s start the New Year with a very familiar and easily spotted resident of Capitol Hill that has a rich cultural history. The Northern Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos) is a long, slim grey bird up to nine inches in length with pale yellow eyes, and white underwing patches that can be seen in flight. Appearing to be always on the lookout to protect their territory, they will often perch near the tops of small trees and bushes as well as on telephone wires. They have adapted to urban settings such as Capitol Hill as long as there are nearby shrubby vegetation and trees that bear fruit and, hedges, bushes or thickets for protection. Mockingbirds are also common in parks, cultivated land and in second growth habitat at low elevations. Based on this description of their habitat requirements, it is not surprising that they are widely distributed, being found in all 48 of the contiguous states and parts of southern Canada and Mexico. Like many passerine species, their range and numbers have increased over the past one hundred years or so to the north. Northern Mockingbirds eat mainly animal matter in warm weather including beetles, earthworms, moths, butterflies, ants, hornets, and grasshoppers. As the weather gets colder they switch to consuming mostly berries and fruit including those from holly trees and ornamental shrubs. This change in diet permits them to stay farther north in the winter when available insect food is scarce. When on the ground they may suddenly raise their wings and display the white patches. One theory for this behavior is that it stirs up insects. As their name implies, they are able to mimic songs of other birds and even oth-
er sounds including notes from a piano, sirens and whistles. Although both sexes sing, it is the male that is the most vocal and capable of a great number of song types – up to 200 variations according to one estimate. You can identify a mockingbird because it typically repeats one song sequence usually four to six times before changing to another series. Birders familiar with songs and calls know to wait before declaring that a species such as a Kildeer is in the area to see if it is not “just a mockingbird.” Unlike most birds, they will also sing in the post-breeding fall and in the spring at night. Both the male and female are involved in the nest building with the male doing most of the work and they may produce two and even three broods per season. Perfect habitat for them is the Congressional Cemetery. One hot August day, I noted that there were so many around I decided to count them. After an hour or so, I came up with a total of seventy birds! Many were obviously
fledglings from the concluding nesting season. That number decreased significantly in the fall and I wondered where the young ones dispersed to. Back to culture. The mockingbird is the official state bird of Arkansas, Florida, Mississippi, Tennessee and Texas. During the 1800s it was often captured and kept as a cage bird which explains the traditional lullaby that begins: “Hush little baby, don’t say a word, Mama’s gonna buy you a mockingbird. And if that mockingbird don’t sing, Mama’s gonna buy you a diamond ring.” Fifty years ago it was immortalized by the title of the Harper Lee novel To Kill a Mockingbird. It appears when the children are warned, “It’s a sin to kill a mockingbird because mockingbirds do no harm. They only provide pleasure with their songs. They don’t do one thing but sing their hearts out for us.” Some walking too close to a nest may take a bit of exception to this romanticized and anthropomorphic image as these birds can be rather aggressive by defending their territory, and it is not unusual for a person or pet to be divebombed, especially in late summer. The significance of the mockingbird in Lee’s novel has been speculated upon in countless high school and College essays. My son’s high school English teacher, Charles Temple, a grad of Sewanee University of the South, won the Jeopardy Teacher’s Tournament this past May. In preparation for the tournament of champions that he would later compete in, I tossed what would be to him a softball for $100: “This scary neighbor was an endless source of fascination to Scout Finch.” Can you hit the button? Comments or suggestions for future columns contact petevankevich@gmail.com. ★
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communitylife
Capitol Hill Village’s Stardust Gala/Motown Magic Musical Nostalgia and a Great Array of Prizes Served up at this Fundraiser by Mike Canning
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he fourth annual Capitol Hill Village Gala this month is movin’ on up to H Street, NE, and will feature new music, a new venue, and the appeal of nearby pre-Gala dinner spots. As with earlier Galas, however, the evening will still be filled with great sounds for dancing and listening, a candle-lit hors d’oeuvre and sweets table, and a full selection of attractive auction items. The 2012 Motown Magic/Starlight Gala will be held on Saturday, January 28, at The Atlas Center for Performing Arts, 1333 H Street NE, beginning at 7:30 pm. The evening’s primary entertainment is the versatile “Raggs & the All-Stars” band, known for their Motown 1960s stylings as well as for music ranging from classic rock and contemporary pop to soul, disco, and reggae. The group features vocalist Sheila Ford. Autos from the 1950s will form part of the evening’s decorations to remind attendees of times gone by. Singing by the Capitol Hill-based Jaynettes also will add to the entertainment. Founded in the late 1980s by Hill resident Parker Jayne and featuring a bevy of local songstresses, the Jaynettes specialize in lively oldtime rock-and-roll. Line dancing, once again, will encourage attendees to get out on the dance floor. A musical trio will perform early to welcome attendees as they arrive. Dancing and music will continue until 11:30 pm. Café tables and chairs under sparkling decorations will grace the Atlas’s Sprenger Black Box Theatre for the music making. A “quiet café” and a silent auction will be held in the building’s lobby. The silent auction will close at 10:15 pm. Besides a good time, the Gala of62 ★ HillRag | January 2012
Attendees dance up a storm at last year’s last year’s Stardust Gala. Photo: Tom Pullin
fers an opportunity to raise money for Capitol Hill Village (CHV) to help cover the gap between the organization’s membership fees and the overall cost of its extensive services to members. In addition to funds raised from reservations, the Gala raises money through its auctions (see accompanying article by Ruth Mitchell for details). Last year’s Gala netted $40,000 for the Village. The night calls for festive dress, with black-tie optional. Valet parking will be available at the Atlas fron t door. At least two area restaurants, Smith Commons on H Street and Lavagna on 8th Street, will be offering fixed price pre-Gala dinners. Some 350 places are available for the event. The 2012 Gala has a new policy for younger attendees, offering $40 reservations for those 40 and younger through January 15. Otherwise, pricing will be the same as last year. Through January 15, reservations will be $60 for individuals, $50
per person for groups of 8 or more. After January 15, the prices will be $70 for individuals or $60 per person for groups of eight or more.
Capitol Hill Village Board Member Donna Barbisch is overseeing the evening. Others on the Gala Committee are Mary Procter, overall coordinator; Paul Malvey, sponsorships and restaurants; Ruth Mitchell, auction; Anne Kraemer, food. CHV’s Executive Director Katie McDonough and Office Manager Pam Weiss also are on the committee planning this big night for the community. Established in October 2007, Capitol Hill Village provides Hill residents with the opportunity and the practical means to live a full life in their own homes throughout their lives. It is the second such enterprise in the US and has grown to more than 250 households, assisted by more than 210 volunteers and a small professional staff led by Executive Director McDonough. For more information on the event and how to get tickets, go to www.capitolhillvillage.org. ★
Everything’s up for Bid! by Ruth Mitchell
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ne of the advantages of living on Capitol Hill is sharing the neighborhood with a large number of prominent people in politics, government, the arts, literature, and sports. A favorite Hill pastime is sitting over a latte at an outdoor café and watching the famous go by. But if you don’t live right next door, how do you meet and talk to them? One of the answers is by winning your person in an auction. Not the kind where millions of dollars are bid with a flicker of an eyelash, but silent auctions where you write your name and bid for an evening with the author, actor, or politician you want to talk to. Then you go dinner at a Capitol Hill house where the host provides the food and atmosphere for a stimulating conversation with your favorite celebrity. Capitol Hill Village holds an annual gala where bidding on dinner guests, vacation houses, and lessons is as much fun as the music and
Salon dinner guest Rev. Paul Abernathy at the home of Louise Walsh and Charlie Rupp in March 2011. Photo credit: Mary Procter
dancing. [see previous article]. This year the gala offers more houses and more dinner guests with some different twists. Proceeds will go to support CHV including the support of subsidized memberships for those neighbors who cannot afford CHV fees. Evoking eighteenth century traditions where elegant hostesses invited the learned and distinguished for scintillating conversation, CHV calls its dinner “salon dinners,” and its guests “salon dinner guests.” The idea is to enjoy conversation about interesting topics over good food, so hosts are carefully chosen to accommodate the number of places available. Auctions for salon dinner guests are strictly speaking not auctions but priority lists, because those who sign up pay a flat price ($50 per place, half of which is tax deductible) and compete to be among the 10, 15 or 20 who can join the salon on a certain date and time, arranged between the guest and the host. The rest go on a waiting list. \ But this year, some guests are so prominent that a few will be offered in a real auction, which means that for these two or three guests, bidders will write the amount they are prepared to pay (in increments of $10 above $50) on a small piece of paper, fold it, and put it into a sealed jar at the gala. The 15 or 20 highest bidders (according to the number of guests a host can accommodate) will get to meet their target person. The list of 36 salon dinner guests in three years of galas includes politicians Eleanor Holmes Norton and Tom Davis, former member of the house from Virginia; actors Floyd King and Bryan Cassidy; authors Abigail Trafford and Jack Wennersten; religious leader Reverend Paul Abernathy of St. Mark’s Church; and sports figures Washington Nationals’ Vice President Gregory Mc-
Carthy and Joe DuPriest of the Washington Capitals. Many have been repeats, in response to requests: Tommy Wells, Capitol Hill’s DC Council Member, has been a salon dinner guest for all of the past three years. Amy Weinstein and Phil Esocoff, architects responsible for many of the buildings on Capitol Hill, were guests in 2010 and 2011. The author Louis Bayard teamed up with Bill Doggett, renowned for his gourmet cooking, in 2009 and 2010, and will be making a return appearance in 2012. On each occasion, Bayard’s most recent book provides the theme for Doggett’s dinner. Bayard’s latest novel, The School of Night, weaves a sixteenth-century secret society into a modern intrigue about a missing letter. How Doggett uses this as his dinner theme will be revealed only to the highest bidders. Among salon dinner guests for 2012 will be Alice Rivlin, the District of Columbia’s financial guardian angel, whose dinner was vastly oversubscribed last year. For a conversation about the theatre in Washington, come to dinner with Nancy Robinette, who has acted in every type of drama in this town; to hear about the history of American food, come to dinner with Rayna Green of the National Museum of American History, who helped bring Julia Child’s kitchen to the museum; for perspective on politics, come and hear Ambassador Jim Jones, who has been a member of Congress, president of the New York Stock Exchange, and U.S ambassador to Mexico. These are just a few of the choices out of the 15 that will be available in 2012. If you’re looking for a getaway to a vacation house for a week or a weekend, you have to enter a real auction, in the sense that the house is awarded to the highest bidder above a minimum bid. This year these include a Vermont farmhouse; an Annapolis waterfront house; a spectacular historic house on the Eastern Shore; a house in Provence, France; a house in Virginia’s Northern Neck; two opportunities to spend a week at Deep Creek Lake; and a house in County Wexford, Ireland. You still have money left? You can improve your knowledge of your ancestors, your garden, and your wardrobe by bidding for lessons. Bill Matuszeski will offer his lessons in Japanese flower arranging for the fourth year, and his wife, CHV Board President Mary Procter will paint a house portrait for the first five people who sign up. Auctions open horizons to people, places, opportunities. But you can’t win if you don’t bid.
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capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 63
communitylife
INFO and the Institute for Education Boosting Civility One Discussion at a Time by Amanda Abrams
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wo decades ago, Kathy Kemper was coaching a slew of Washington bigwigs on the tennis court when her husband suggested she put that access to use. “He said, ‘You teach all these big shots tennis, why don’t you invite them to meet some of the people I do business with? We can exchange ideas and it’ll be an interesting collaboration,’” she remembered recently. The fruit of that suggestion was on display one evening last month at the Belgian ambassador’s residence on Foxhall Road. Kemper, husband James Valentine, and a dedicated group of allies—including more than 20 ambassadors, several senators and congressmen, and Supreme Court Justice Breyer—were on hand to celebrate the 20th anniversary of a roundtable whose sole objective is to promote civility and cooperation in Washington. Things have changed, of course. The dialogue, now called INFO public policy roundtable, has been formalized and become something of a Washington institution. It’s the main program of the Institute for Education, a nonprofit that was established some 15 years ago to support the talks. But at heart, INFO remains a bit of an odd bird, at least for Washington. The discussions, which occur maybe ten times a year, aren’t aimed at furthering a particular public policy agenda. Nor are they geared at garnering media attention. At heart, they’re still about bringing people together in the hope that those who sit next to each other in a low-key setting will find it just a little harder to jab at each other in public. “I think it’s really important to laugh and have fun, [but] it’s pretty hard to do that when you’re all around the table having a high-powered dialogue,” said Kemper, whose colleagues refer to her simply as ‘Coach.’ “Usually people’s closest allies are the ones they spend time with—not just in the boardroom and meetings, but actually recreating together.” She should know. A former professional tennis player and coach for Georgetown University’s women’s tennis team, Kemper taught the game on White House, congressional, and diplomatic courts through five presidential administrations—and subsequently saw a very different side of some of the city’s most powerful people. “A coach and student have a real special relationship,” explained Kemper. “If you’re someone’s tennis coach and you ask them to do something, it’s pretty easy to get them to say yes.” Which means her students barely hesitated when she suggested they join her and other movers and shakers to talk about current issues. And thus the discussion series was born. The first speaker was Les 64 ★ HillRag | January 2012
James Valentine and Kathy Kemper with General Michael Hayden and his wife Jeanine Carrier at INFO’s 20th anniversary party. (credit: Kyle Samperton)
Afton, Chairman of the Armed Services at the time and later Secretary of Defense. Five or six people sat in the audience and peppered Afton with questions once he finished talking. “People who attended loved it, and said, ‘Do it again!’” said Kemper. For the first year, the event remained informal, but gradually Kemper and her allies developed an invitation list. The mix includes a very senior group of academics, policymakers, diplomats, and journalists who generally meet for breakfast to discuss local, national, and international issues. More than 200 people have addressed the group; they include the Egyptian ambassador while news of the Arab Spring was breaking earlier this year, and General Michael Hayden, former director of the CIA and NSA, just days after Osama Bin Laden was killed. But one of the group’s biggest accomplishments has been on the local front, according to Marci Robinson, chairwoman of IFE’s Board of Stewards. While in power, Mayor Anthony Williams gave eight State of the City addresses to the organization, providing an overview of where the city was headed that year. The group also convened a regional summit that brought together lawmakers from Virginia and
Maryland for the first time. Around 1996, the Institute for Education was founded and incorporated as a 501(c)3 to support the roundtable. As a result of INFO’s success, the organization now has several spinoff roundtables focusing on media and technology, emerging markets, and the next generation, as well as exchange programs that bring together people from different backgrounds. But INFO remains the group’s flagship program, valiantly striving to maintain a collegial environment where big ideas can be freely discussed in a climate that some observers say is characterized by more hostility—politically, at least—than ever. “It’s a worthwhile cause and certainly does make inroads; [INFO] has had an impact locally and to some extent nationally and internationally,” said Juliet Eilperin, a Washington Post reporter who attended the 20th anniversary celebration last month and visited China last year on an IFE exchange program. “But this is a time of political polarization, and it’s tough to foster civility in that context.” For more information on INFO and the Institute for Education, go to www.instituteforeducation.org. ★
Stuart Hobson School History Project Calling All Alumni! by Janice E. MacKinnon and Satu J. Haase-Webb
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or a school with a long history, such archival conditions for the materials, while as Stuart-Hobson Middle School making them available to future generations (SHMS), it is always fun to listen through a digital collection. to a parent or a teacher talk about what Aside from archiving, the students the school was like when they attended, learned to interpret primary sources, to conand what the school is offering their own duct oral history interviews with MacKinchild, now a student at the same school. Are non (then the school’s librarian) and to create you one of those parents, grandparents, or small exhibits using the archives’ collection. teachers? If so, this year’s Stuart-Hobson The students’ exhibits covered historic topics, such as “Occupations of Stuart Parents, Archives Club project focuses on people like 1920s-1940s,” “Stuart during WWII” and you and the Club wants to hear from you! “Social Life at Stuart after Integration.” “Family Connections” is a project The Archives also includes an Oral Hisfunded by the Capitol Hill Community tory Collection of taped interviews by forFoundation. Under the direction of Ms. mer students, teachers, and parents. Maya Satu Haase-Webb, historian/archivist, who Rimpsey, currently an 8th grader at SHMS, helped create the school’s archives, and Ms. Jan MacKinnon, SHMS retired librarian, says: “I have been a part of the Oral History/ 7th and 8th grade students will study several The SHMS Library as it appeared in 1951 from a photograph archived at SHMS. Archival club for four years and have loved generations of families who attended Stuart every minute of it. It gave me many opporJunior High or the early years of SHMS. In ad- school building, assessing their condition and tunities to explore the archival world, which I am dition to learning to use the school’s archives, the historic value. Small teams of 8th grade students very excited about.” students will learn about primary sources. Most of helped copy old roll books (attendance records), In January 2009, the SHMS Archives received all, they will gain a new understanding about their scan historic photographs, and preserve materi- new furniture and became an official part of the als by putting them into protective plastic (My- school library. It was created by Catholic Universchool and its interesting history. “This is most appropriate,” declares Mr. Tous- lar) sleeves. Roll books dating back to the 1920s, sity architecture students under the direction of saint Tingling-Clemmons, a former SHMS PTA scrapbooks from the 1940s and 1950s, class Bill Jelen, one of the library’s original architects. student who is now Dean of Students. “Stuart- photos from the 1920s to the 1950s, as well as The design integrated the existing wavy bookcases Hobson, and the Cluster as whole, I think, has school newspapers and other paper materials resembling rock formations and featured a handprided itself on being a family. Generations have were cataloged and stored in archival boxes. The some semi-opaque photo-collage of former Stubeen educated here… I am one of six siblings to archivists scanned all the photographs, as well as art students. It is these former Stuart students that the curmatriculate through the Cluster and now help to some documents and other materials, and created educate dozens of my former classmates’ children finding aids for the collection. Making due with rent Archives Club’s project “Family Connections” the existing conditions and monetary restraints, seeks out. Through the years, knowing the school’s or my siblings’ classmates’ children.” The idea for an archives at Stuart-Hobson MS the archivists wanted to create the best possible rich history, the students, parents, and community may come to understand the values generwas born when Suzanne Wells and othated within the Capitol Hill Cluster School, ers started clearing out the old library in which were well expressed by Ray Allen, a 2006 to get ready for the renovation by the student in 1986 when the Stuart and HobSchool Libraries Project. After discovering son Schools joined together: “One of the many historic materials in the book supply great things about the Cluster school is that room, some on the floor near a radiator, “it you have a lot of people from different backwas clear something needed to be done to grounds, different areas of life, we all conpreserve them…!” remembers Wells. verge into one Cluster school… the Capitol In January 2007, Haase-Webb and Beth Hill Custer is a wonderful program.” Behrendt, both with children at Watkins’ The Archives Club is planning an eveMontessori program at the time, began ning in February or March 2012 where genworking as part-time archivists. For over erations can come together to talk about and three years, the project was funded by two record their experiences. This event will be Library Services and Technology grants, as announced in the Hill Rag. well as grants from the Capitol Hill Community Foundation and the Humanities Ms. MacKinnon and Ms. Haase-Webb, the SHMS ArCouncil of Washington, DC. chives Club’s sponsors, can be contacted via email at stuHaase-Webb and Behrendt began by 8th Graders Maya Rimpsey and Elayna Diggs review historic documents from arthobsonarchives@yahoo.com. ★ collecting all the historic materials in the the SHMS Archives. capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 65
communitylife
BYwest
SOUTH
Community Night at L’Enfant Plaza article and photos by William Rich
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BG hosted L’Enfant Plaza Community Night for residents of Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6D on December 13, where an update was given to the community about plans for the massive mixed use complex. Each attendee was given $15 to use at any of the restaurants or retail shops, which have continued to open over the past several months at Phase One of the refurbished retail center, designed by SmithGroup. Free parking was also available in the garage, which is one of the largest private garages in the city. Now open in the first phase: Roti Mediterranean Grill, Potbelly Sandwich Works, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Au Bon Pain, Starbucks, Frozen Yogurt Indulgence, Gourmet Too, Gateway Newstands, Mina, Nash’s Mens Wear, 4-U, Hallmark and a post office. In addition, Jay’s Jewelers was just about ready to open. Some of the retailers existed in the old Promenade, but several are new. Five Guys, Mama Ilardo’s, McDonald’s, Dress Barn, Radio Shack and CVS are some of the other retailers planning to open at the retail center. Britt Snyder, VP of Development at JBG, gave some details about what is planned for the complex over the near and medium-term. Tenant build-out continues for some of the restaurants and retailers yet to open in the first phase, but construction of Phase Two has begun, which will bring double the amount of space 66 ★ HillRag | January 2012
LED panels give some visual interest to passersby as they make their way to the food court.
Frozen Yogurt Indulgence is one of the newer restaurants to open at L’Enfant Plaza. The design palette in the new retail center is more appealing than the dated look of the old Promenade.
by 2013. Three LED panels have been installed on pillars to give some visual interest and change periodically – a season-appropriate theme with snowflakes was on display during the event. To complement the LED panels in the food court, a video wall displaying art will soon be installed near the Metro entrance and television screens will be placed in the second phase food court along with soft seating areas. A large atrium will replace the pyramid skylight and provide a grand entry to the retail center from the plaza. Snyder said JBG has taken into consideration requests made by neighborhood residents and office tenants when pursuing retail tenants for Phase Two. As a result, they are hoping to bring a fitness center and child care facility to the second phase, but talks with grocers to open a small store were not successful. Some sit-down restaurants are envisioned for the second food court and Snyder mentioned they hope to “push the envelope” by having some of the stores stay open later and on weekends. Construction of a Homewood Suites (a Hilton brand) extended stay hotel at 9th and D Street has been pushed back to the summer or fall of 2012. The new hotel will be built to LEED-Certified standards (either Silver or Gold) and entrances will be created along D Street and from the plaza. In the medium term, a 200,000 square foot office build-
HOMES THAT SHOW BETTER SELL BETTER WITH ing is planned for the southeast corner of the complex along Frontage Road SW. Snyder said residential development was seriously considered for this parcel, but it was determined not feasible to build since rents in the area are currently not high enough to justify the added expense of construction in a complicated development such as L’Enfant Plaza. The lack of a grocery store in the area was also an impediment (although Safeway is physically closer to L’Enfant Plaza than it is for most residents of Near SE). Pedestrian connections between L’Enfant Plaza and the residential neighborhood to the south are being looked at to be improved, although that may have to wait until after the planned Frontage Road SW office building is completed. Eventually, JBG would like to construct another office building in the plaza itself, but those plans are in the very early stages. At one point in its history, L’Enfant Plaza had a cinema and other neighborhood amenities before the complex became primarily an office park. In its new incarnation, it is hoped that there will be an attempt to activate L’Enfant Plaza beyond the typical nine to five work day.
up to 19 post offices in the District before the end of the year. Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton has been instrumental in keeping several post offices from closing, including one locally at the Ford House building. A search for a replacement space for the L Street SW post office is under way. USPS is looking to sign a 10-year lease in Southwest that can accommodate retail sales, post office boxes and distributionsimilar to the current facility. If distribution cannot be done on site, it will be done at the main Brentwood facility in Northeast, but packages would still be picked up at the new local post office. At the December Advisory Neighborhood Commission meeting, Commissioner Ron McBee mentioned that a 4,000 square foot space is available on the ground floor of the 1101 4th Street SW building at Waterfront Station. The commissioners prefer a centrally located post office on Southwest’s “Main Street”, but if negotiations with the new owners of Wa-
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Search is On for New Post Office Location By the end of 2012, the Southwest The current SW post office is located across the street from the inspection station, Post Office, located away from the heart of the Southwest community. Photo: William Rich on 45 L Street SW, will close its doors. The main reason for the post office closure is the lease expiration terfront Station are not fruitful, the ANC with The Ruben Companies, which owns and USPS will be in talks with other area the land where the post office is located. developers in Near SE to locate a tempoThere is no indication of what will replace rary post office there until a site in Souththe current post office building, but Ruben west becomes available. A temporary Near owns several other parcels in the vicinity SE post office would still serve the 20024 on both sides of South Capitol Street, in- ZIP code even though Near SE is located in cluding the former Taco Bell/KFC lot, the the 20002 (note: I thought 20002 was near former Exxon gas station, and the former N.E. and that near SE is 20003) ZIP code. Wendy’s. For now, some of the sites have The L’Enfant Plaza post office also serves become temporary parking lots, while oth- the 20024 ZIP code and recently opened a ers remain unused. Ruben has plans for of- new location at the renovated retail center. fice and possibly residential development on However, it is only open on weekdays. the other sites. Closure of the L Street SW post office William Rich is a blogger at Southwest…The Little Quadrant that Could (www.southwestquadrant. is unrelated to cutbacks by the U.S. Postal blogspot.com) ★ Service (USPS), which plans to shut down capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 67
communitylife
The Capitol Riverfront Aspirations Becoming Reality by Michael Stevens, AICP
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he past three years have seen a development slowdown for the DC region, which has affected many development projects. The Capitol Riverfront experienced this downturn, however the neighborhood was fortunate to have several public/private development projects that were able to continue to move forward. From 2009 – 2011 the Capitol Riverfront witnessed its population grow by over 2,200 people, the completion of 654,000 square feet of office space, and 86,000 SF of retail leases signed. In addition, the BID services focused on building a high quality public realm, providing access to the Anacostia River, and positioning and marketing our neighborhood for the next wave of development projects. In the last 18 months alone we saw the following projects move forward or be completed: • Yards Park opened in September, 2010 • Phase II of 163 houses in the EYA Capitol Quarter development started, begun delivery, and only 11 units have not been reserved or purchased • 1015 Half Street, SE, a 400,000 SF office building delivered • 200 I Street, SE, a 350,000 SF office building that will be home to three DC Government agencies began construction • The Riverwalk Trail connection between Diamond Teague Park and Yards Park opened in November 2011 • The Foundry Lofts apartment building delivered and residents began moving in during November, 2011 • The construction of Canal Park started and it will deliver in summer 2012 During the past three years, our residential neighborhood grew rap68 ★ HillRag | January 2012
Above: Rendering of the Boilermaker Shops which will have six restaurants and many retail shops. Below: Interior and exterior of the Lot 38 Expresso Bar at 2nd and L Streets, SE, the newest hot spot to open.
idly as the condo, coop and apartment buildings experienced significant sales and lease up. Over 95% of apartments are leased in the Capitol Riverfront. The Foundry Loft apartments opened in November having been over 50% pre-leased. Our residential population is now approximately 3,400 and should approach 4,000 residents in 2012. In recent years, our conversa-
tions with potential retail tenants, restaurants, office tenants, and real estate investors were often aspirational in nature as we promoted the vision for our neighborhood. That vision and those aspirations were based on planning and zoning that had occurred in the Capitol Riverfront, and projects that we knew would happen once market conditions were more favorable.
Many of these aspirations are now under construction and a reality. The next wave of development that is dramatically changing the neighborhood as we move into 2012 includes: • The opening of the Foundry Loft Apartments and Restaurants, 170 loft style apartments overlooking Yards Park that will include two new res-
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taurants opening in spring of 2012 – Potbelly Sandwiches and Kruba Thai and Sushi. The completion of 200 I Street, SE in summer 2012 and the move-in of 1,200-1,400 new employees in three DC Government agencies (this is the old Evening Star/Post print facility and is a wonderful renovation of this building) The renovation of the Boilermaker Shops, a former industrial building being repurposed as a restaurant and retail center with six new restaurants (micro-brewery and restaurant, Buzz Bakery, be-right-burger, Austin Grill Express, Huey’s 24/7 Diner, and Willie’s Brew and Que) that will open in late 2012. The start of 1212 4th Street, SE which will house a 50,000 SF Harris Teeter grocery store at the corner of M and 4th Streets, SE – the mixed use project also contains 225 apartment units, space for a 30,000 SF health club, and another 30,000 SF of retail space. The project should deliver in the 4Q of 2013 or early 2014. Phase II of the EYA townhomes continues delivery until September 2012, with another 163 homes for sale or lease – all but 11 units for sale units have been sold or reserved. Canal Park opening in the summer of 2012 with a new restaurant called the Park Tavern operated by Xavier Cervera on the southern block. The Camden residential project, 276 units of multi-family apartments on South Capitol Street, SW (just outside our BID boundaries) that will deliver in mid 2013. Demolition has begun on the Florida Rock concrete plant just south on Nationals Park on the Anacostia River. The first phase of Riverfront on the Anacostia, a mixed use project with office; retail; residential; and office uses, will be a 200-unit apartment building developed by MRP Realty – construction should start in
2013. This project will also include additional improvements to Diamond Teague Park and the beginning of another phase of the Riverwalk Trail to the west. • The demolition of the DPW trash transfer facility on New Jersey Avenue, SE will also occur in 2012, freeing up the site for future housing as a part of the mixed-income Arthur Capper Carrollsburg redevelopment. • The reconstruction of I Street, SE from 2nd Street to New Jersey Avenue, SE. After the street is constructed, William C. Smith & Co. will begin construction in the spring of 2012 on a 430 unit apartment building at 880 New Jersey Avenue, SE. This building will be phase I of the high-density, mixed use project located on Square 737 that will contain additional residential, office and retail uses. What does this all mean for our neighborhood? The numbers of the new reality are impressive – 10 new restaurant leases signed totaling over 25,000 SF; the start of a 50,000 SF grocery store; the delivery of approximately 1,000 new residential units over the next 28 months; the delivery of a new 3-acre Canal Park and delivery of a 350,000+ SF office building bringing 1,200 – 1,400 employees this summer. The Capitol Riverfront is achieving a vision for our neighborhood that was initiated by Mayor Williams and the DC Office of Planning over 10 years ago, and later enhanced by the Anacostia Waterfront Corporation. As our neighborhood transitions from an industrial backyard to a high density mixed use community with access to the Anacostia River and parks, it is gratifying to see the vision and aspirations become reality in the form of new development projects and continued growth. Come see, and be a part of all the activity in the Capitol Riverfront. Happy New Year to all and best wishes for a wonderful 2012!
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capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 69
communitylife
h street streetlife life What’s Up on H for 2012 by Elise Bernard
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011 was a busy year for H Street NE. It gained several new restaurants, attracted record crowds to its annual festival, and celebrated the completion of the of the streetscape project. Not content to rest on its laurels, however, the H Street Corridor remains hot even as the temperature chills. Below you’ll find a rundown of some of the changes headed to the Corridor in 2012.
70 ★ HillRag | January 2012
Four New Restaurants to Open in the 1200 and 1300 blocks of H Street NE The 1200 and 1300 blocks continue their reign as the entertainment hotspots for the strip. Chicken Tortilla (http://www.chickentortilla. com), which also boasts a Barracks Row location, recently applied for a liquor license at 1324 H Street
NE. The restaurant will serve Peruvian style chicken, as well as gourmet burritos. Down the street The Spot (1255 H Street NE) hopes to serve up Latin American cuisine. The restaurant will occupy two floors, and also include a rooftop deck. Oh, and the owners plan to offer cooking classes in the rear. A few doors away, local Chinese
carryout Danny’s has left the building (1251 H Street NE, that is), but Sol Mexican Grill (https://twitter.com/#!/solmexicangrill) is eager to fill the void. Sol Mexican Grill will be the brick and mortar incarnation of the local food truck by the same name. Finally, a Mediterranean restaurant named Central will take over the currently vacant building at 1200
H Street NE. Central comes from the same owner as its Moroccan neighbor Souk (1208 H Street NE). The new restaurant will have seating for 30 patrons, with a seasonal sidewalk café on the 12th Street side.
Casbah Brings Southeast Asian Fare to H Street NE The former home of Naby’s Island (1128 H Street NE) is set to become a Pakistani/ Indian restaurant. The owners of Casbah have not yet filed an application with the Alcoholic Beverage Regulation Administration, but have indicated their intentions to do so. They also have plans to add a sidewalk café on the 12th Street NE side. This is excellent news, as it would make use of the large currently unused outdoor space.
HR-57 Finds a New Home Along the Corridor Local jazz hot spot HR-57 (http:// www.hr57.org) is moving from its current home at 816 H Street NE to 1007 H Street NE. The new space is much larger, and will enable HR-57 to accommodate much more sizeable crowds. It will also include a new coffee shop named Alchemy. Alchemy will sell homemade pastries, and will serve up breakfast all day long.
BeBop Café Aims to Bring to the Blues to H Street NE After HR-57 is up and running in its new location, owner Tony Puisan, plans to start work on BeBop Café at HR-57’s current location (816 H Street NE). BeBop café will be a local spot for live blues music. Puisan has long been rumored to be shopping space on H Street NE for a blues performance space, but this is the first concrete news about such a development. The H Street NE Corridor is quickly becoming a major destination for live music. The Rock and Roll Hotel (http://www. rockandrollhoteldc.com, 1353 H Street NE) and Rose’s Dream (1370 H Street NE) were early entrants to the scene. Soon after came the Red and the Black, which later merged with the Palace of Wonders to become Red Palace (http://redpalacedc.com, 1210 H Street NE). The Atlas Performing Arts Center (http://atlasarts.org, 1333 H Street NE) offers music lovers classical, gospel, and jazz.
A New Spot to Get Inked on H Street A new tattoo and piercing parlor, Cirque du Rouge (http://cirquedurouge.com, 416
H Street NE), is headed for the H Street Corridor. In addition to seeing patrons by appointment, Cirque du Rouge will also take walk-ins.
Popularise Harvests the Power of the People The team behind Westmill Capital (http://www.westmillcapital.com) recently acquired both the AutoZone lot (1207 H Street NE), and 1351 H Street NE. While the AutoZone lot is tied up in a long lease, 1351 is gutted, and ready for redevelopment. The Westmill team is taking an innovative approach to selecting a tenant. They’ve launched a new website called Popularise (https://popularise.com) with the aim of soliciting community input. Visitors can suggest business concepts, and others can then vote to “build” that concept. Current favorites include a flagship store for the DC based men’s clothing line DURKL (http:// www.durkl.com), and Red Rocks Pizzeria (http://www.redrocksdc.com). Much of the recent development along the H Street NE Corridor has come in the form of restaurants and bars. If the DURKL store opened it would add a visible retail element, at a time that some are concerned about the heavy nightlife entertainment focus on H Street NE. Red Rocks Pizzeria is a locally based restaurant serving Neapolitan style pies. They currently have locations in both Columbia Heights and Old Town Alexandria.
Treats for The Vegan and the Carnivorous Vegans and vegetarians have much reason to rejoice at the ever-expanding options on H Street NE. Vegan friendly Fruit Bat (http://www.dcfruitbat.com, 1238 H Street NE) recently added vegan chocolate beer waffles to their already tempting brunch menu. A few doors down at Red Palace (http://redpalacedc.com, 1210 H Street NE) the kitchen is preparing to open, and among the planned offerings is the burporken. The burporken is burger that incorporates beef, pork, and chicken. This unusual concoction seems like a suitable offering for a venue that not only features live music, but also freak show and burlesque acts. The new menu will feature a full line up of gourmet burgers, sandwiches, and even desserts made in-house. For more on what’s abuzz on and around H Street you can visit my blog http://frozentropics.blogspot.com. You can send me tips, or questions at elise.bernard@gmail. com. ★
APRIL RUBIN, MD Obstetrics • Gynecology Adolescent Gynecology • Infertility Menopause Counseling
636 A Street, NE • 202-547-4604 Blue Cross • Blue Shield Provider
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202-546-1972 Monday-Wednesday 8 AM to 6 PM Thursdays Doctors available by
APPOINTMENT ONLY
Friday 8 AM to 7 PM Saturday 8 AM to 12 Noon Winter Hours for January: Office will close at 5 PM for all evenings hours during January 2012 capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 71
communitylife
SE, has plans to lease the 413 side to Chipotle Mexican Grill. The potential Chipotle Mexican Grill opening has a tumultuous background; months of passionate neighborhood participation at ANC meetings addressed the question of whether Chipotle Mexican Grill is indeed a fast food restaurant like McDonalds, or a new breed, a hybrid, “fast casual.” The debate was settled with the recognition that evolutionary change had occurred on our fast food planet, and “fast casual” was more acceptable in our historic overlay area on a case-by-case basis than true “fast food” venues which are not allowed. Chipotle opens in 2012.
8th Street, SE, 2012 DC’s Original Commercial Corridor Echoes Founders’ Visions by Sharon Bosworth ton and his urban planner, Pierre L’Enfant. Washington and L’Enfant created 8th Street, SE, in 1791, the primary commercial corridor and gateway-by-sea into the Federal City. Two hundred twenty one years later, their planned commercial corridor has become a phenomenal success. We begin our 2012 overview of new projects about 100 paces west of the historic Home of the Commandants, at the 8th and G street, SE intersection. The most recent arrival on 8th Street, SE, is Spring Mill Bread at 701 8th Street, SE, whose Grand Opening occurred in December 2011. After being open just three weeks, owner Katherine Rhurka states matter-of-fact-ly, “We’ve been slammed.” As downDecember 2011 Spring Mill Bread Opened to Repeat Custhe- block neighbors, the tomers’ Raves; Manager and DC Resident, Scot Has Been With Spring Mill Bread for Eight Years Barracks Row Main Street office staff is eyewitness to homas Jefferson had it right, this happy upheaval. Word of course: in 1803 he person- is out. These folks definitely know ally selected the site where how to bake. Because of the tsunami the future Home of the Comman- of business, with deep queue’s formdants of the Marine Corps would be ing during breakfast and lunch hours, built, 801 G Street, SE, just off of 8th we predict that something is going to Street, SE. Over the years that corner have to happen in 2012 to accommolived up to Jefferson’s vision and be- date Spring Mill Bakery’s overnight came the indisputable heart of Bar- success. racks Row. As 2012 begins we review the up-coming changes planned for It May Be Organic But It’s Very our historic corridor with homage not Good, Too only to Jefferson but also to John AdAll Spring Mill Bread products ams who sited the US Navy Yard at are made from organic flour which 8th and M Streets, SE, in 1798. Both they grind themselves every day. But Jefferson and Adams used the city really, it’s the taste not the health benmap devised by George Washing-
T
72 ★ HillRag | January 2012
efits that brings crowds back again and again. The most obvious solution to today’s overwhelming business levels is the arrival of first balmy day in spring. By then, with outdoor tables added, the shop could accommodate two cashier lines. But if crowding continues after that, we know of some spots along 8th Street where a second, satellite Spring Mill Bread location could be located! Opening a second store nearby is not such a far stretch either. Another newcomer to 8th Street, SE, Yes! Organic Market, now under construction at 410 8th Street, SE, seems to Should A Man Wear the Coat be poised to do just that. With several That Fitted Him As A Boy? years left on their lease at 658 PennThomas Jefferson would have been sylvania Avenue, SE, they are also proud of this neighborhood which he opening one block away on Barracks helped shape for the fervent discusRow. Yes! Organic Market will have sions and long meetings we held to two locations servicing the Eastern Market Metro Plaza from mid 2012 through 2013. Conversations with neighbors about what we need most on Barracks Row always seem to begin with groceries. Soon, with two Yes! Organic Markets, we will discover if organic groceries will satisfy the demand for a grocery store. One of the most watched openings planned in 2012 will be right across the street from the new Yes! Organic Market location. Streetsense, owner of the buildings “…With the Change of Circumstances Institutions Must Advance at 413-415 8th Street, Also to Keep Pace With the Times” Thomas Jefferson; Portrait by Rembrant Peale
Before and After: 739 8th Street, SE, Planned Barracks Row Main Street Façade Improvement Renovations
decide this point. Jefferson had a firm opinion on recognizing and accepting change. He penned these words in a letter in 1816 that apply well to the fast casual vs. fast food situation: “As… new truths (are) discovered and manners and opinions change, with the change of circumstances, institutions must advance also to keep pace with the times. We might as well require a man to wear still the coat which fitted him when a boy…” Chipotle Mexican Grill will open only after renovations are completed by Streetsense bringing the circa 1850 building into ADA compliance. Another start-up fast-casual venue may be opening in 2012 in the 415 8th Street SE side of the building, too. Steve Salis, an entrepreneur with a concept for customizable, healthy, gourmet pizza (with gluten free choices) plans to take the 415 side and appears to be making progress in adapting his business profile with spirited input from neighbors and the ANC. Also in 2012 Pacifico, a tapas restaurant is being installed at 514 8th Street, SE, next door to Belga Café of the same address. The Pacifico build-out has been under way for six months. When complete, it will be joined on the east side of the block by two new restaurants at 524 8th Street, SE, Tash, downstairs which will feature kebabs and Nooshi Sushi, upstairs. With the opening of these three restaurants the east side of the 500 block will join the west side of the 500 block, home to Lavagna, 539 8th Street, SE; Cava, 527 8th Street, SE; Matchbox, 521 8th Street, SE; Las Placitas, 517 8th Street, SE , Fusion Grill, 515 8th Street, SE; Teds Bulletin, 505
8th Street, SE; and The Chesapeake Room , 501 8th Street, SE, to become the true epicenter of Capitol Hill’s restaurant row with fourteen eateries on one block.
Barracks Row Main Street Façade Program At Work Meanwhile, in the 700 block of 8th Street, SE, just south of the Home of the Commandants, three new Barracks Row Main Street façade projects are about to begin which will transform the lower end of that block. “Drawings are done; we expect to have the work completed in 2012,” explained Tom Litke, manager of façade improvements for Barracks Row Main Street. Three buildings on that block will be involved: 725 8th Street, SE, now home to Jackson Hewlitt Tax Service and Chesapeake Bay Foundation; 737 8th Street, SE, Valerie’s Animal Den; and 739 8th Street, SE, where offices of Ex Nihilo, International Center and A-List Nails are located. In 2012 Barracks Row Main Street celebrates twelve full years of historic preservation and economic revitalization efforts. We are honored to take park in this amazing revival. This year we plan to lead the corridor in joining the city-wide Cherry Blossom Festival, the 100th Anniversary of the gift of Washington DC’s cherry trees from Japan as well as the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War and the 200th Anniversary of the War of 1812. Keep up with events and ceremonies on Barracks Row in 2012 by referring to this article in the Hill Rag every month, by receiving our newsletter and by consulting our website www.barracksrow.org or call us at 202-544-3188. ★ capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 73
We are looking forward to another year of serving our community in 2012! Give a call and let our experience and enthusiasm work for you!
202-741-1770 / 202-741-1786 74 ★ HillRag | January 2012
Real Estate Car Barns on the Hill by Robert S. Pohl
W
ith streetcars set to return to the Hill, the number of issues that still need to be solved are dwindling. With the track built, and the location of the eastern and western termini settled, there remains only the question of what the car barn at the eastern end of the track will look like. DDOT has chosen to build on a spot near Springarn School, on the northwest corner of Benning Road and 26th Street NE, but have yet to determine what it will look like. If history is any guide – and there have been three buildings of this nature on the Hill over the last 120 years – it will be a substantial building that will add to the character of the neighborhood while serving as a key piece of infrastructure.
Herdic Phaeton Stables In 1881, the Herdic Phaeton company began operations with a
single line of their horse-drawn carriages. Although the route taken by their vehicles paralleled that of an extant horse-drawn streetcar line, the new carriages – designed by one Peter Herdic – offered a better alternative for people seeking to get from the Navy Yard to Georgetown. The success of this new venture was shown in two ways: First, their competitors felt the need to improve their offering, and secondly, within two years, the Herdic Phaeton company was looking to expand their services. Their new line was to go from Lincoln Park, past the Capitol and the White House, and then to points further northwest. In order to make this plan a reality, they needed new stables. For this purpose, a plot of land was acquired at 10th and C, and a building permit request was filed with the city. The new building was a large, two-story brick structure. In it, there
were not only stables for the horses, but also the company’s business offices. This was not a small enterprise: A total of 160 people worked there, keeping 300 horses in shape to pull their 80 coaches. No picture exists of this structure, the closest is an image taken from an 1884 map. It is clearly not drawn with from nature; by then the stable was a u-shaped building, as the Herdic Phaeton company’s success had required further expansion.
Navy Yard Car Barn The Herdic Phaeton company, for all its advantages, still suffered from the same disadvantage of its competitors: Its motive power was horses. This required not only the stabling and care for hundreds of horses, but also the importing of vast
The East Capitol Car Barn today Photo: Robert S. Pohl capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 75
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Detail of 1884 Adolph Sachse map showing the artist’s rendition of the Herdic Phaeton stable (Library of Congress)
quantities of food for them, as well as keeping the streets free of their droppings. It was thus unsurprising that there was a great deal of interest in finding new methods of moving people around the city. In 1889, thus, Congress passed a law allowing (and, after two years, forcing) street cars to operate on other forms of motive power. The Washington and Georgetown Railway, whose buses ran from the Navy Yard to Georgetown, decided to switch to cable power. In 1891, they began work on a car barn for the Navy Yard end of the line. It was a Romanesque building designed by Walter C. Root, and was, as the Sunday Herald wrote, “the finest structure in the vicinity.” Officially known as Washington and Georgetown Railroad Car House, it was usually known simply as the
Navy Yard Car Barn. From 1892 until 1897, the Car Barn was used to get the cars ready for their next trip. In 1897, the power house, in which the great cables that transmitted the motive power to the cars were pulled, burned. At this point, the Capitol Traction company, which now owned this line, decided to go with electrical power, which had become far more widespread in the previous five years.
The East Capitol Street Car Barn The third and – for now – last public transportation building on the Hill is the Car Barn at 15th and East Capitol Streets. In 1896, the car barn was built to store and repair the new electrically powered cars that were run on the line that went down East Capitol
The Navy Yard Car Barn today at the corner of 8th and M Street SE. Photo: Robert S. Pohl 76 ★ HillRag | January 2012
Street and around the Capitol to Georgetown. It was a large handsome brick building that covered the whole square north of East Capitol Street between 14th and 15th Streets. There was more to this Romanesque Revival barn than just workspace: The Washington Post reported in March 1896 that the “second floor will be the offices of the President, the Secretary, Treasurer, engineer, and the board of directors’ meeting room.” The first cars were run on July 7, 1896 and were an immediately success. For over 65 years, streetcars were an important part of the DC streetscape, until on January 28, 1962, the last street cars made their way to the Navy Yard Car Barn, and the era of streetcars in DC was over – for a time. Both Car Barns were used briefly as a bus barn for the next decade or so, and then sat empty for many years. In 2005, the East Capitol Car Barns were converted into condominiums. The Navy Yard Car Barn has been used as a charter school, and the current owner hopes to turn it over to mixed retail when the current lease expires next year. And the Herdic Phaeton Stables? They were knocked down some time in the late 1800s or early 1900s, to be replaced, in 1923, by 30 rowhouses, which is a pity, for otherwise it, like the other two, might have ended up on the National Register for Historic Places. Hopefully, DDOT will look to the two survivors for inspiration in building the new car barn, to find something that will remain an important part of the neighborhood 120 years in the future.
Happy New Year! Thanks for a great year… We have the best clients!! Thanks for your continued support and wonderful referrals. You know you always come first with us.
Warm regards, Pam, Hub and Joan
Robert Pohl is a tour guide and freelance historian living on Capitol Hill. He is currently working on a book of scandals in his neighborhood. ★
capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 77
realestate
Changing Hands Changing hands is a list of most residential sales in the District of Columbia from the previous month. A feature of every issue, this list, based on the MRIS, is provided courtesy of Don Denton, manager of the Coldwell Banker office on Capitol Hill. The list includes address, sales price and number of bedrooms. CHEVY CHASE 3724 NORTHAMPTON ST NW 3504 MORRISON ST NW 3911 ALBEMARLE ST NW 2711 JENIFER ST NW 5112 38TH ST NW 3314 TENNYSON ST NW 6625 BARNABY ST NW 5504 30TH ST NW 5318 43RD ST NW 5704 32ND ST NW 4122 FESSENDEN ST NW 4803 41ST ST NW 3109 BIRCH ST NW 5504 30TH PL NW
DUPONT $1,375,000 $1,349,000 $1,260,000 $1,100,000 $1,100,000 $950,000 $899,000 $850,000 $830,000 $825,000 $821,000 $820,000 $755,000 $625,000
7 5 5 4 4 5 4 4 3 4 4 5 3 3
$399,900 $280,000
6 3
$625,000
3
$960,000 $572,100 $540,000 $515,000 $475,000 $465,000 $450,000 $419,000 $365,500 $340,000 $306,000 $275,000 $265,000 $260,000 $195,000
5 4 4 3 5 3 3 3 4 3 2 5 2 4 2
$260,000 $185,000 $179,900 $175,000 $115,000 $85,000 $74,900 $73,800 $72,000 $71,000 $60,000
4 3 3 2 3 4 2 3 3 2 2
CHILLUM 15 LONGFELLOW ST NW 6122 BLAIR RD NW
CLEVELAND PARK 3506 34TH ST NW
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS Neighborhood
AddressClose Price
FEE SIMPLE
1370 TEWKESBURY PL NW 5815 4TH ST NW 613 SHERIDAN ST NW 502 RITTENHOUSE ST NW
16TH STREET HEIGHTS
BROOKLAND
1211 GALLATIN ST NW 4604 IOWA AVE NW 1421 BUCHANAN ST NW 5703 14TH ST NW 5206 14TH ST NW 4324 15TH ST NW 5741 13TH ST NW 1303 BUCHANAN ST NW
$647,725 $590,000 $545,000 $475,000 $465,000 $452,000 $337,000 $300,000
4 4 4 6 4 3 3 3
3507 10TH ST NE 24 GIRARD ST NE 1040 CRITTENDEN ST NE 513 MONTANA AVE NE
$970,000
3
CAPITAL HILL, OLD CITY #1
ADAMS MORGAN 1710 LANIER PL NW
AMERICAN UNIVERSITY PARK 4453 WARREN ST NW 4922 ALBEMARLE ST NW 4410 49TH ST NW 4919 44TH ST NW 4401 RIVER RD NW 4232 RIVER RD NW
$1,013,000 $870,000 $820,000 $709,000 $695,000 $690,000
5 3 3 3 3 3
$225,000 $200,000 $170,000 $70,000
3 3 4 2
$1,300,000 $2,600,000
6 6
$899,000 $410,000
5 3
$625,000 $247,000
6 3
$655,000 $525,000 $515,000 $465,000 $459,000
6 5 5 3 4
ANACOSTIA 1434 18TH ST SE 1600 16TH ST SE 1410 S ST SE 1334 DEXTER TER SE
BERKLEY 4414 HADFIELD LN NW 1717 FOXHALL RD NW
BLOOMINGDALE 2200 1ST ST NW 148 ADAMS ST NW
BRENTWOOD 1001 RHODE ISLAND AVE NE 2346 14TH ST NE
BRIGHTWOOD 839 RITTENHOUSE ST NW 411 RITTENHOUSE ST NW 1350 TUCKERMAN ST NW 6927 9TH ST NW 6209 12TH ST NW
78 ★ HillRag | January 2012
$399,999 $397,000 $249,000 $213,000
4 4 3 3
$474,600 $445,000 $360,000 $160,000
3 4 3 2
$1,194,000 $843,300 $672,500
2 2 3
$865,000 $1,250,000 $1,100,000 $1,035,000 $815,000 $750,000 $739,900 $714,000 $690,000 $654,500 $640,000 $639,500 $629,500 $620,000 $618,000 $615,000 $615,000 $602,000 $593,000 $585,000 $585,000 $579,000 $575,000 $558,000 $552,000 $500,000 $499,000 $498,750 $475,000 $395,000 $377,000
4 4 7 3 2 3 4 2 4 3 3 2 3 3 3 2 2 3 3 2 4 3 3 2 3 2 3 3 3 2 2
$893,350
3
BURLEITH 3935 IVY TERRACE CT NW 1927 39TH ST NW 1912 35TH ST NW 642 E ST NE 1016 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NE 916 EAST CAPITOL ST NE 635 A ST NE 306 A ST SE 615 A ST SE 1028 7TH ST NE 518 5TH ST SE 1026 7TH ST NE 1527 EAST CAPITOL ST SE 1826 MASSACHUSETTS AVE SE 411 A ST NE 730 4TH ST NE 1364 SOUTH CAROLINA AVE SE 1033 7TH ST NE 335 KENTUCKY AVE SE 314 G ST SE 231 10TH ST SE 1435 D ST SE 416 15TH ST SE 905 KENT PL NE 335 10TH ST NE 1022 INDEPENDENCE AVE SE 7 9TH ST SE 1620 G ST SE 603 BROWNS CT SE 729 10TH ST NE 705 FLORIDA AVE NE 1844 MASSACHUSETTS AVE SE 1368 C ST NE 1362 C ST NE
CONGRESS HEIGHTS
CAPITOL QUARTER 924 3RD PLACE SE
1414 EUCLID ST NW 623 IRVING ST NW 3548 HERTFORD PL NW 2631 13TH ST NW 2819 11TH ST NW 1341 NEWTON ST NW 3205 WARDER ST NW 453 LAMONT ST NW 2629 SHERMAN AVE NW 514 KENYON ST NW 3035 SHERMAN AVE NW 737 MORTON ST NW 3402 SHERMAN AVE NW 524 PARK RD NW 2319 SHERMAN AVE NW 1105 ALABAMA AVE SE 534 LEBAUM ST SE 617 FORRESTER ST SE 169 ELMIRA ST SW 131 DANBURY ST SW 341 PARKLAND PL SE 629 ALABAMA AVE SE 1216 BARNABY TER SE 719 ATLANTIC ST SE 504 CHESAPEAKE ST SE 4047 1ST ST SW
$766,200 $760,000 $653,700
4 4 3
$439,000
3
$290,000 $275,000 $235,000 $228,000 $219,000 $214,900 $182,000 $175,000 $169,000 $164,000 $155,000 $139,900 $67,000
6 4 3 3 4 3 3 4 3 2 3 2 3
DEANWOOD 520 60TH ST NE 516 EASTERN AVE NE 5715 EAST CAPITOL ST SE 4944 EAST CAPITOL ST NE 1117 51ST PL NE 4223 CLAY ST NE 406 DIVISION AVE NE 514 45TH ST NE 203 62ND ST NE 811 50TH PL NE 5334 EAST CAPITOL ST NE 4257 GAULT PL NE 5120 JAY ST NE
6 6 7
$485,000 $325,000 $290,000
4 3 3
$259,900 $254,000 $170,000 $170,000 $108,000 $82,500 $74,250 $50,000
5 3 2 3 3 3 2 2
3248 ROBERT CLIFTON WEAVER WAY NE $399,999
4
ECKINGTON 27 QUINCY PL NW 1711 NORTH CAPITOL ST NE 211 RHODE ISLAND AVE NE
FORT DUPONT PARK 4336 BARKER ST SE 3960 S ST SE 4419 C ST SE 204 34TH ST SE 1107 46TH ST SE 3322 ELY PL SE 202 36TH ST SE 4419 A ST SE
FORT LINCOLN FOXHALL 4431 Q ST NW 4424 RESERVOIR RD NW
$635,000 $600,000
3 2
$4,500,000 $4,150,000 $2,125,000 $1,653,000 $1,560,000 $1,525,000 $1,375,000 $1,100,000 $865,000 $725,000 $580,000
6 5 4 4 5 5 5 3 2 2 2
$700,000 $690,000 $670,000
3 3 3
$380,000 $265,000 $245,000 $225,000 $190,000
5 4 3 3 3
$2,500,000 $1,495,000 $1,245,000
5 4 5
$3,650,000 $855,000 $710,000
9 4 5
$480,000 $435,000
3 5
$197,600 $63,000
3 2
$1,020,000 $1,000,000 $825,000
3 3 3
GEORGETOWN 1692 31ST ST NW 1312 30TH ST NW 3417 P ST NW 1234 33RD ST NW 4611 CHARLESTON TER NW 3409 O ST NW 3917 IVY TERRACE CT NW 2802 P ST NW 1652 AVON PL NW 3223 VOLTA PL NW 1525 27TH ST NW
GLOVER PARK 3808 W ST NW 2032 TUNLAW RD NW 2318 39TH ST NW
HILL CREST 3365 DENVER ST SE 3327 M ST SE 3739 O ST SE 1412 34TH ST SE 3818 CARPENTER ST SE 2131 WYOMING AVE NW 2123 R ST NW 1847 CALIFORNIA ST NW
KENT
DAKOTA CROSSING 3278 THEODORE R HAGANS DR NE
$2,325,000 $1,050,000 $1,435,000
KALORAMA
CRESTWOOD 1625 VARNUM ST NW 4413 COLORADO AVE NW 4226 18TH ST NW
2023 R ST NW 1636 19TH ST NW 1735 19TH ST NW
5001 PALISADE LN NW 2817 NORTH GLADE ST NW 5224 MANNING PL NW
LEDROIT PARK 52 CHANNING ST NW 2218 1ST ST NW
LILY PONDS 28 33RD ST NE 3334 CLAY ST NE
LOGAN 1337 VERMONT AVE NW 1436 S ST NW 1418 RHODE ISLAND AVE NW
MARSHALL HEIGHTS 5301 E ST SE 5204 E ST SE
$270,000 $265,000
3 4
MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE HEI 2860 WOODLAND DR NW
$7,700,000
6
$336,500
3
$769,724 $755,000
3 4
$920,000 $781,500 $750,000 $720,000 $710,000
3 3 4 3 3
$970,480 $720,000 $670,000 $624,000 $515,000 $502,000 $380,000 $340,000 $290,000 $244,000 $232,000 $210,000 $609,000 $520,000
4 5 4 3 4 4 3 3 3 3 3 3 4 2
$945,000 $680,000 $658,500 $550,000
3 3 3 2
$470,000 $469,900 $469,000 $435,000 $404,000 $390,000 $379,000 $350,000 $295,000 $228,500 $225,000 $220,000 $210,000 $577,000 $525,000
4 4 4 4 3 3 4 4 4 3 3 3 3 4 4
$270,000 $200,000 $175,000 $72,000 $67,500 $53,550
12 3 3 2 3 2
$295,000 $275,000 $237,500 $235,000 $190,000 $130,000
3 3 2 3 2 2
$535,000
4
$610,000
3
$599,000 $575,000 $360,000
4 5 3
$1,700,000 $1,600,000 $1,375,000 $1,303,000
6 5 4 5
MICHIGAN PARK 1613 CRITTENDEN ST NE
MOUNT PLEASANT 3227 ADAMS MILL RD NW 1696 LANIER PL NW
NORTH CLEVELAND PARK 3904 YUMA ST NW 4218 RENO RD NW 3826 WARREN ST NW 3824 VAN NESS ST NW 4411 35TH ST NW
OLD CITY 906 3RD PL SE 815 K ST NE 718 8TH ST NE 723 G ST NE 831 FLORIDA AVE NE 914 C ST NE 1254 CARROLLSBURG PL SW 519 K ST NE 548 25TH PL NE 2010 C ST NE 1905 D ST NE 2506 E ST NE 1621 4TH ST NW 2227 12TH PL NW
PALISADES 5837 SHERIER PL NW 5018 V ST NW 5814 MACARTHUR BLVD NW 5212 MACARTHUR BLVD NW
PETWORTH 27 SHERMAN CIR NW 316 GALLATIN ST NW 508 DECATUR ST NW 626 INGRAHAM ST NW 5304 5TH ST NW 3725 9TH ST NW 4820 ILLINOIS AVE NW 432 UPSHUR ST NW 312 TAYLOR ST NW 521 LONGFELLOW ST NW 5400 4TH ST NW 5519 4TH ST NW 308 WEBSTER ST NW 3914 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW 525 CRITTENDEN ST NW
RANDLE HEIGHTS 2887 HARTFORD ST SE 2402 24TH ST SE 2484 SKYLAND PL SE 3455 23RD ST SE 1904 17TH ST SE 1907 SAVANNAH PL SE
RIGGS PARK 1003 HAMILTON ST NE 631 KENSINGTON PL NE 219 OGLETHORPE ST NE 636 JEFFERSON ST NE 416 PEABODY ST NE 509 PEABODY ST NE
RLA (SW) 601 4TH ST SW
SHAW 1612 6TH ST NW
SHEPHERD PARK 7315 13TH ST NW 1214 HOLLY ST NW 1219 GERANIUM ST NW
SPRING VALLEY 3812 48TH ST NW 4977 GLENBROOK RD NW 5208 UPTON TER NW 5119 WARREN PL NW
capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 79
PETTYJOHNPLACE
FURNISHED RESIDENCES ON THE HILL • Flexible Term Furnished Apartments on Capitol Hill • Studios, One and Two Bedroom Available • Fully Furnished • Steps from the Eastern Market Metro • Satellite TV w/ HBO • High-speed Internet • All Utilities Included • Weekly and Monthly Rates
Christopher Pettyjohn – Proprietor 202.487.7843 www.pettyjohnplace.com
:PVS /FJHICPS 0O 5IF )JMM “The road to success is not always straight; let me help you through the real estate maze to a happy and successful destination”
TAKOMA 627 WHITTIER ST NW 7223 BLAIR RD NW 614 HIGHLAND AVE NW 7225 BLAIR RD NW
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS $463,000 $430,000 $635,000 $466,000
4 5 6 4
$187,000 $140,000
2 2
$667,000 $865,000 $499,000
2 3 2
$1,660,000 $1,500,000
5 5
$1,795,000
5
$483,000 $460,000 $450,000 $422,000 $385,000 $369,900 $335,000 $309,000 $299,000 $170,000 $155,000 $89,000
4 3 4 6 5 4 4 3 3 2 4 2
$186,000
1
$1,650,000 $885,000 $474,000 $340,000
2 2 1 1
$210,000
1
$205,000 $75,000
2 1
$750,000 $475,000 $375,000 $340,000 $332,000 $292,000 $220,000
3 2 1 1 2 1 0
$925,000 $765,000 $674,500 $590,000 $525,000 $445,000 $418,000 $399,999 $375,000 $344,800 $329,900
2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1
$1,360,000 $370,000 $220,000
2 2 1
$475,000 $363,000 $325,000 $315,000 $305,000 $267,500 $250,000 $135,000
2 1 1 1 1 1 1 0
TRINIDAD 830 21ST ST NE 1754 L ST NE
U STREET 1209 W ST NW 1461 FLORIDA AVE NW 2258 12TH PL NW
WESLEY HEIGHTS 4512 CATHEDRAL AVE NW 4849 FOXHALL CRES NW
WOODLEY 2858 29TH PL NW
WOODRIDGE 3124 CHESTNUT ST NE 3610 DAKOTA AVE NE 2805 BRENTWOOD RD NE 1925 RHODE ISLAND AVE NE 3063 VISTA ST NE 2802 CHANNING ST NE 3158 MONROE NE 3009 OTIS ST NE 3104 CHESTNUT ST NE 2421 FRANKLIN ST NE 1862 BRYANT ST NE 2720 28TH ST NE
CONDO 16TH STREET HEIGHTS 1400 OGLETHORPE ST NW #2
ADAMS MORGAN 2328 CHAMPLAIN ST NW #401 1700 KALORAMA RD NW #408 1701 KALORAMA RD NW #403 2440 16TH ST NW #512
BRIGHTWOOD 6425 14TH ST NW #206
Deborah Charlton
BROOKLAND
Realtor - Long & Foster
45 HAWTHORNE CT NE #45 4411 1ST PL NE #25
CAPITAL HILL
(202) 415-2117 (202) 944-8400 DC.DC@LongandFoster.com www.yourneighboronthehill.com
“We are part of Capitol Hill, We don’t just work here... We live here, too. Let our neighborhood experience work for you...”
525 9TH ST NE #105 1342 MASSACHUSETTS AVE SE #C 601 A ST NE #5 326 8TH ST NE #302 1341 EAST CAPITOL ST SE #103 610 3RD ST SE #9 101 NORTH CAROLINA AVE SE #303
CENTRAL 2425 L ST NW #114 2425 L ST NW #204 2425 L ST NW #418 915 E ST NW #1005 1112 25TH ST NW #2 601 PENNSYLVANIA AVE NW #612 616 E ST NW #1020 400 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #1001 400 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #1009 915 E ST NW #312 1010 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #211
CHEVY CHASE 4301 MILITARY RD NW #401 5410 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #905 5406 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #504
CLEVELAND PARK
202.546.3100 210 7th Street, SE. #100. WDC 20003 www.monarchtitle.net 80 ★ HillRag | January 2012
2818 CONNECTICUT NW #5 3100 WISCONSIN AVE NW #402 2723 ORDWAY ST NW #3 3880 PORTER ST NW #D352 3800 RODMAN ST NW #1 3217 WISCONSIN AVE NW #6C 3026 WISCONSIN AVE NW #209 3701 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #317
1425 EUCLID ST NW #11 3013 11TH ST NW #3 2910 GEORGIA AVE NW #203 1437 SPRING RD NW #12 2910 GEORGIA AVE NW #305 1417 NEWTON ST NW #408 2910 GEORGIA AVE NW #201 2910 GEORGIA AVE NW #304 1439 EUCLID ST NW #106 1321 FAIRMONT ST NW #205 609 NEWTON PL NW #1 1451 BELMONT ST NW #P-55
$699,900 $402,000 $389,000 $315,000 $284,900 $280,000 $269,900 $249,900 $240,000 $233,000 $230,000 $18,000
2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 0
$1,057,500 $662,500 $650,000 $640,000 $546,000 $435,000 $417,000 $353,000 $336,600 $335,000 $315,000 $307,500 $263,000 $215,000 $188,000 $549,000 $318,000 $390,000
2 2 2 2 1 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 2 1 2
$337,500 $235,000 $235,000 $215,000
1 1 1 1
$28,000
1
$282,000
0
$5,300,000 $2,450,000 $1,445,000 $567,500 $512,000 $500,000 $455,000 $385,000 $375,000 $349,900 $325,000
3 2 2 2 1 2 1 1 1 1 1
$437,000 $348,500 $340,000 $333,000 $225,000 $170,000 $13,000
2 1 1 1 1 0 0
$144,500 $52,000 $40,001 $36,771
1 2 2 2
$1,250,000 $1,199,000 $560,000 $527,500 $525,000 $480,250 $454,500 $425,000 $339,900 $960,000
2 3 2 2 2 1 2 2 1 3
$430,000 $325,000
2 1
$57,000
2
DUPONT 1414 22ND ST NW #42 1607 T ST NW #A 1721 21ST ST NW #302 1520 16TH ST NW #303 2024 N ST NW #4 1740 U ST NW #3 1751 U ST NW #2 1621 T ST NW #804 1730 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW #13 1621 T ST NW #203 1621 T ST NW #207 2119 N ST NW #5 1330 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW #416 1825 T ST NW #701 1615 Q ST NW #906 1926-1930 NEW HAMPS AVE NW #52 1727 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #502 2008 16TH ST NW #203
FOREST HILLS 4007 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #501 2939 VAN NESS ST NW #340 2939 VAN NESS ST NW #1139 3310 27TH ST NW #5
FORT DUPONT PARK 430 RIDGE RD SE #203
GALLERY PLACE 616 E ST NW #1008
GEORGETOWN 3150 SOUTH ST NW #3B 3303 WATER ST NW #C-8 3303 WATER ST NW #5D 1632 30TH ST NW #2 2735 OLIVE ST NW #4 3030 K ST NW #213 3299 K ST NW #302 3241 N ST NW #1 2500 Q ST NW #512 2500 Q ST NW #342 2500 Q ST NW #744
GLOVER PARK 2325 37TH ST NW #2 2320 WISCONSIN AVE NW #412 2320 WISCONSIN AVE NW #316 2320 WISCONSIN AVE NW #208 4027 BENTON ST NW #301 4000 TUNLAW RD NW #530 4000 TUNLAW RD NW #3
HILL CREST 2760 NAYLOR RD SE #104 3924 SOUTHERN AVE SE #202 2137 SUITLAND TER SE #301 2008 FORT DAVIS ST SE #201
KALORAMA 2301 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #2A 2022 COLUMBIA RD NW #114-116 2415 20TH ST NW #24 2420 19TH ST NW #1027 2149 CALIFORNIA ST NW #K 2201 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #9 1810 KALORAMA RD NW #A3 1954 COLUMBIA RD NW #803 2010 KALORAMA RD NW #406 2001 19TH ST NW #4
LEDROIT PARK 125 T ST NW #3 1907 3RD ST NW #402
LILY PONDS 3723 GRANT PL NE #3723
Kitty Kaupp & Tati Kaupp LOGAN 1325 13TH ST NW #705 1205 N ST NW #D 1314 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #804 1413 P ST NW #503 1325 13TH ST NW #12 1209 O ST NW #1 1441 RHODE ISLAND AVE NW #713 1400 CHURCH ST NW #308 1300 N ST NW #706 1239 VERMONT AVE NW #302 1001 L ST NW #809 910 M ST NW #402 1447 SWANN ST NW #B
$408,000 $399,000 $340,000 $899,900 $747,500 $720,000 $720,000 $554,000 $534,900 $373,355 $380,000 $381,000 $445,000
1 1 1 2 3 2 3 1 2 2 2 1 2
$155,000
2
$649,000 $388,000 $299,000
2 2 2
MARSHALL HEIGHTS 5206 F ST SE #1
MOUNT PLEASANT 1606 BELMONT ST NW #A 1752 PARK RD NW #B 3510 16TH ST NW #304
$275,000
1
$565,000 $305,000 $110,000 $620,000 $549,900 $449,900 $437,000 $425,000 $399,000 $397,000 $380,000 $345,000 $303,000 $234,000 $187,000 $175,000
2 1 1 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 0
$548,000 $416,000 $245,000
2 1 0
$244,000
1
$31,000 $28,500 $23,000 $21,000 $16,000
1 1 2 1 2
$605,000
3
PETWORTH 804 TAYLOR ST NW #307
RANDLE HEIGHTS 1310 CONGRESS ST SE #404 3103 NAYLOR RD SE #304 3070 30TH ST SE #103G 2311 ALTAMONT PL SE #201 3070 30TH ST SE #102
RHAPSODYOLD CITY 2120 VERMONT AVE NW #523
WESLEY HEIGHTS
2 2 2 1 1 1 1
www.kittykaupp.com
SOLD $149,000
1
$362,000
2
$140,000
1
$395,000
2
$274,900 $490,000
1 3
$275,000 $487,250
1 1
$455,000 $315,000 $285,000 $260,000
2 1 1 1
$255,000
1
$257,000
1
$399,999 $370,000 $340,000 $271,500
1 1 1 1
$362,000 $291,000
2 1
$665,000
3
BRIGHTWOOD 6445 LUZON AVE NW #415 516 A ST NE #304
CLEVELAND PARK 3600 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #102 4514 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #106
2 Br 1.5 Baths, Open Floor Plan, Ss Kitchen Appliances, Granite Counters, Lead To Patio And Garage. Light Filled Flat Front Victorian Th.
Strategic location on Historic Capitol Hill at US Capitol and Union Station,Senate side, SEC building,& Mass Ave retail corridor. 6402 Square Feet available in increments from 165 SF up, on 1st & 2nd levels. Lower level available 2000 SF. Beautifully renovated building with high ceilings, large windows, marble lobby. Grand presence.
CATHEDRAL HEIGHTS 4000 CATHEDRAL AVE NW #431B 3900 WATSON PLACE NW #B-2G
518 5th Street SE $714,000 Close an Location at Eastern Market /Metro
316 F Street NE Commercial Lease
CAPITOL HILL
1734 P ST NW #6 1701 16TH ST NW #652 1701 16TH ST NW #256 1701 16TH ST NW #427
FOREST HILLS 3001 VEAZEY TER NW #104
GEORGETOWN 1657 31ST ST NW #403
Signature Properties...Signature Service. SM
KALORAMA 2220 20TH ST NW #65 1852 COLUMBIA RD NW #604 2122 CALIFORNIA ST NW #654 2122 CALIFORNIA ST NW #160 3025 ONTARIO RD NW #404 2707 ADAMS MILL RD NW #404
$281,000
1
$595,000
2
$119,900 $104,000
2 1
VAN NESS
$620,000 $467,500 $820,000 $515,000
2 2 2 1
WATERFRONT
$850,000 $485,000 $199,900
3 2 1
NORTH CLEVELAND PARK OBSERVATORY CIRCLE 4000 CATHEDRAL AVE NW #528B
3001 VEAZEY TER NW #522 3001 VEAZEY TER NW #607 1311 DELAWARE AVE SW #S-445 520 N ST SW #S 112
(202) 549 - 1779
$399,999
1
$91,000
0
$395,000 $360,000
2 2
$75,000 $136,500
0 0
Tax Returns, Tax Litigation, Innocent Spouse, Offers in Compromise Wills, Estates, Probate
$655,000
2
613 4th Place, SW • Washington DC, 20024
WATERGATE 2700 VIRGINIA AVE NW #112 ★
Wes Grooms
(202) 262 - 5242 1
SOUTHWEST WATERFRONT 1301 DELAWARE AVE SW #N-508
Karen Voellm
$297,500
OLD CITY #2 1701 16TH ST NW #803
WAKEFIELD 4700 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #503 4700 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #206 4600 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #222
1669 COLUMBIA RD NW #110
3000 TILDEN ST NW #201
U STREET 2020 12TH ST NW #709 2001 12TH ST NW #218 2125 14TH ST NW #322-W 2250 11TH ST NW #104
1365 KENNEDY ST NW #404
3
TRINIDAD 1658 WEST VIRGINIA AVE NE #101 1648 MONTELLO AVE NE #2
$629,000 $599,900 $599,900 $460,000 $437,500 $415,900 $321,500
COOP
$471,000
THE VELOCITY 1025 1ST ST SE #1405
2801 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #11 2818 CONNECTICUT NW #201 2818 CONNECTICUT NW #104 2818 CONNECTICUT NW #101 2725 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #302 2725 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #807 2501 CALVERT ST NW #805
2 1 1
TENLEYTOWN 4801 WISCONSIN AVE NW #504
2 2 2 2 2 2
WOODLEY PARK
$375,000 $224,950 $130,000
SW, WATERFRONT 46 G ST SW #101
1177 22ND ST NW #9J 1099 22ND ST NW #808 2555 PENNSYLVANIA AVE NW #809 2301 N ST NW #712 1140 23RD ST NW #205 1111 25TH ST NW #806
MOUNT PLEASANT
RLA (SW) 355 I ST SW #S-225 700 7TH ST SW #530 1250 4TH ST SW #W109
$1,695,500 $850,000 $720,000 $599,000 $505,000 $710,000
WEST END
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage 605 Pennsylvania Ave SE 202-255-0952 202-255-6913 kkaupp@cbmove.com
DUPONT
PENN QUARTER 616 E ST NW #646 616 E ST NW #505 777 7TH ST NW #502
2 2
ADAMS MORGAN/MOUNT PLEASANT
OLD CITY 1335 A ST SE #D 32 15TH ST NE #32 1815 A ST SE #206 2238 11TH ST NW #2 811 4TH ST NW #405 1109 O ST NW #202 1444 CHURCH ST NW #107 1401 17TH ST NW #814 440 L ST NW #713 437 NEW YORK AVE NW #806 925 WESTMINSTER ST NW #1 1401 17TH ST NW #207 1423 R ST NW #506 1133 13TH ST NW #204 66 NEW YORK AVE NW #305 1727 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #317
$550,000 $500,000
16TH STREET HEIGHTS
OBSERVATORY CIRCLE 2111 WISCONSIN AVE NW #106
3291 SUTTON PL NW #B 3283B SUTTON PL NW
kvoellm@cbmove.com www.kvrealtyteam.com
wgrooms@cbmove.com www.pennqtr.com
RICHARD B. TREANOR T A X
A T T O R N E Y
202-554-3467 capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 81
82 ★ HillRag | January 2012
NEW YEAR ! NEW YOU ! Health & Fitness Special St. Mark’s Dance. Photo: Andrew Lightman
capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 83
NEW YEAR ! NEW YOU ! What’s New in Beauty For 2012 by Amanda Wilson
I
magine walking into a salon for a manicure. Someone offers you complimentary mimosa or champagne, but not because it’s a holiday – it’s just another day...any given day of the year. It’s a great example of how beauty salons on the Hill are raising the bar for customer service, offering new treats and ever more customized treatments and products. Salons are offering more goodies for loyal customers, and incentives for clients to tell their friends about their experiences. Salons are tapping into real-life social networks by offering referral programs. New Year’s doesn’t mean abandoning tried and true models of excellent in-person customer service and word-of-mouth recommendations. So what’s new? Well, in 2012, beauty businesses on the Hill are going digital in even more ways. They are building and expanding their existing presence on the Web, such as through a new YouTube tutorial channel, and tapping into virtual social networks through the use of new apps for smart phones. One such app uses geolocational data to match clients with subscriber businesses in the same area. In no particular order, here’s what’s new in beauty for 2012 at some of the Hill’s salons.
AVA Salon and Spa avasalondc.com At AVA Salon and Spa, located at 225 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, customers can expect the same quality customer service they enjoyed in 2011, said Andre Hopfer. The salon is offering a new “Age Smart” product line and facial treatments to help control skin aging. For those with scalp issues, the salon is also offer84 ★ HillRag | January 2012
ing an exfoliating treatment Hopfer called “truly amazing.” “All of us at AVA believe in making the client comfortable in a warm and inviting environment,” he told The Hill Rag.
Michael Anthony Salon michaelanthonysalondc.com Mickey Bolek at Michael Anthony Salon, 661 C Street SE, said his salon will sponsor a makeover competition in time for Mother’s Day 2012, and clients will be able to nominate someone they think deserves a free makeover. For those who have considered getting their hair colored but are not sure where to begin, the salon will also be hosting a color consultation afternoon with a representative from Paul Mitchell on January 11th. Continuing the 2012 trend of linking in digitally in the New Year, the salon will also be commissioning a series of video tutoriRandolph Cree Salon’s Coppola Keratin Treatment, with Redkin als for its own new Youcolor. The keratin treatment Tube channel. Tutorials locks in coloring. BEFORE will focus on providing (Courtesy: Randolph Cree) useful styling and beauty information to clients and other stylists. The plan is to expand the salon’s presence on the Web and build the business’ visibility.
Skin Beauty Lounge skinbeautylounge.com At Skin Beauty Lounge, located at 404 ½ 8th St. SE, two treatments are at the top of the salon’s most-requested list going into 2012. Popular treatments include the salon’s glycolic acid facial, called the Skin Ultimate Facial. The salon also offers micro-
Randolph Cree Salon’s Coppola Keratin Treatment, AFTER (Courtesy: Randolph Cree Salon)
Waxing. Sugaring. Facials. Lashes Located inside of Patou Salon and Spa
709 D Street SE • 240.421.4346
Massages coming soon! Book online at www.schedulicity.com and save 10% (use code HILLRAG) Wed - Fri. 10am - 7pm
Sat - Sun. 10am - 4pm
capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 85
www.cflwellness.com • 202.575.4660 • 650 Pennsylvania Ave., SE - Suite 250 - Washington, DC 20003
LOOK GOOD WITH YOUR CLOTHES OFF!
uses geolocational information to connect clients who are looking for certain services on their Smart Phones to nearby businesses that offer those services. Clients can then swipe a digital customer code at the door to enjoy special discounts, depending on how many services they order. Tracy and Company also has hired a new aesthetician and starting in 2012 will be opening up its facial room, offering facials, and running specials on 30-minute facials, a service the salon believes will appeal to busy clients. Schakola said lash extensions have been very popular this year. Applied with apoxy, the lash hairs are applied individually and last for about a week.
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202.758.2910 info@redbowdc.com www.redbowdc.com “The Capitol Hill Psychiatrist”
Joseph Tarantolo, MD BOARD CERTIFIED PSYCHIATRIST CERTIFIED GROUP PSYCHOTHERAPIST HERBALIST, NUTRITION COUNSELOR
Specializing in: • Individual, Couples, and Group Psychotherapy • Patients with the Diagnosis of Cancer • Self Exploration without Psychotropic Drugs: “Talk Back to Prozac”
202-543-5290 86 ★ HillRag | January 2012
Swarovsky crystal designs offered by Skin Beauty Lounge (Courtesy: Skin Beauty Lounge)
dermabrasion, a treatment that promotes cell renewal. The salon is also the only salon in DC to offer the “Vajazzle” bikini area design service. Popular in LA, the treatment involves using medical adhesive to bejewel the bikini area with Swarovski crystals in a design of the client’s choice. This is the first year the salon has offered the treatments, which range in price from $15 to $70, and the design stays put – even through showering - for about ten days.
Bravado Hair Design bravadohairdesign.com Bravado Hair Design, located at 665 C St. SE, will have a new space for the New Year. The salon’s renovation involves transforming the formerly two-level salon into a single-level space with street-level entry with a front desk at the entrance. The space has been a working salon for 30 years and owner Kay Khadija has had it for ten years. “I just decided to put my own touch on it,” she told us. The new space will certainly continue to welcome Bravado’s more well-known Capitol Hill clients in the New Year. But, Khadija said all of her clients are special. “All my clients are famous,” she told us. “They are all famous to me.”
Tracy and Company Salon
A-List Nail Salon and Spa, located on Barracks Row at 739 8th Street SE, is offering complimentary wine, champagne and mimosas for customers of all nail and spa services starting in December. The salon’s equipment are UV sterilized. Ivee Trac said the salon also offers free sugar scrubs in five different scents with their pedicures. Also for 2012 the salon will be offering 20 percent off all spa services including facials, waxing and pressure point massage until February and a free makeup session with any one-hour facial.
Michael Craig Grooming michaelcraigdc.com Michael Craig Grooming, located at 1221 Pennsylvania Ave. SE near Eastern Market, will continue to offer its special hair restoration treatment for men called the “Nioxin Treatment”. Made with all-natural ingredients, the treatment gives an 85 percent guarantee that customers will see stubble within three weeks. The treatment involves three salon applications in a spacing of four to six weeks. Clients also take home special shampoos and conditioners for use between salon visits. Offering customized treatments for every client, Micheal Craig also offers treatment shampoos in the same product line for dry and flaking scalp and oily hair. The salon is also featuring a referral program. Clients get a free haircut after three successful referrals, as long as the new clients they refer give the referrer’s name.
tracyandcompanysalon.com Getting linked in digitally is also a beauty trend for 2012 at Tracy and Company salon, located at 428 8th St. SE. Joshua Schakola hopes to attract new clients through participation in programs like Groupon, Bloomspot, and a Google mobile application device that
Randolph Cree Salon randolphcree.com Connie Parson, a stylist at Randolph Cree Salon, located at 325 7th Street SE near Eastern Market, said the salon offers a special keratin smoothing treatment for curly
Celebrate 2012! hair. “Women are loving their hair again because they see the versatility they have with styling. It blows out so much easier, it is softer, and it is healthier,” Connie told the Hill Rag. The salon offers two treatments: a blow-out treatment that lasts four to six weeks, and a keratin treatment that lasts three to six months depending on hair texture. Those treatments are gentle enough if clients don’t want to do permanent color and straightening in the same day. Customers who don’t want to jump right into a treatment can start off trying out the salon’s line of other ultra-light keratin complex styling products. “If you have curly, frizzy hair, you can blow that hair wonderfully smooth,” Connie said.
Dawning Tranquility schedulicity.com Dawning Tranquility, located at 709 D St. SE, located inside Patou Salon and Spa, offers waxing, sugaring and facial treatments for men and women. The salon also offers lash extension services and treatments for ingrown hair, as well as mud, aromatherapy oil, and exfoliating body wrap treatments. In 2012, Dawning Tranquility will also offer massages. As a special New Year treat, the salon will offer 15% off all facials to all firsttime clients.
2012 and Beyond That’s what is “New in Beauty” on the Hill in 2012. Salons are offering treatments and services that focus on giving the customer a full-immersion experience. Salons are catering to the client’s inner health, happiness, and need for relaxation as much as outward beauty to-do list. But that doesn’t have to come at the cost of a kingdom. These businesses are offering new discounts, referral programs, and incentives to keep loyal clients coming back in 2012 and beyond. Visit their web sites – or drop by - to find out even more. ★
Take $10 OFF Any Purchase Totaling $50 or More!* Happy New Year from Capitol Hill Bikes. Make sure your 2012 is happy and prosperous by using this coupon. *This coupon cannot be combined with any other offer. One coupon per person per visit. Past purchases are not eligible. Some other restrictions apply. Ask at the store for details.
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NEW YEAR ! NEW YOU ! Discovering the Secret to Losing Weight – A Personal Journey by Pattie Cinelli
Patti Cinelli. Photo: Andrew Lightman
J
ust last month I bought my first pair of size 8 Talbot corduroy jeans. Never EVER in my adult life have I been this small. All my life (even as a kid) I have been short and stocky. I was strong, athletic and solid. I did not have the body men dream about, nor did I have a body that fit American women’s clothes comfortably. I was never huge, but I was never happy. I didn’t like the 88 ★ HillRag | January 2012
way I looked, and I dragged that feeling around with me no matter what I did like a ball and chain around my ankle. Even when I lost a lot of weight years ago when I looked into the mirror I still saw a fat, unattractive woman. Over the years I tried the Scarsdale diet, fasting, prescription diet pills, the French women’s diet and all forms of daily aerobic ex-
ercise. I was not a binge eater, not a drinker nor a junk-food fanatic (though I love my desserts!). I always kept healthy, and always struggled with a desire to look thinner. I was stressed out about how I looked. I felt bombarded. Ironically, I chose to work in the fitness field and was surrounded with men and women who had what I thought to be “perfect” bodies (and because of
that, perfect lives). The standards were everywhere for me to live up to – on TV, in magazines and the movies. I couldn’t get away from it.
Feeling Unworthy My feelings of being not as good as others started at an early age. As a child I remember a well-meaning older cousin commenting on
the size of my arms. My weight never was “right” for the Metropolitan Life Insurance weight chart doctors used as a standard for measurement. I got teased by other children. I felt that, because of my weight I was never really a part of anything, but sitting on the sidelines watching. Growing up the feeling of “unworthiness” permeated everything I did. Sometimes it made me angry, other times it made me sad and even depressed. I felt as if I had no control. Feeling “not all right” all the time, made me hesitant to act, caused me to doubt my instincts, zapped my energy and kept me from knowing who I was.
Deciding to Change A few years ago I pretty much gave up. I got tired of the struggle, I got fed up with my self doubt and got angry for beating myself up so much. I just didn’t care anymore. Instead I made a conscious effort to choose to be happy. I made peace with the way I was. When I let go of my anxiety and obsession, my weight began diminishing naturally. What I learned anecdotally has been supported by research published last month the IDEA Fitness Journal. “Most weight problems occur between the ears, which may explain why most diets don’t work.” Author Mary Monroe quotes Dr. Daniel Amen, a neuropsychiatrist who has published The Amen Solution: The Brain Healthy Way to Lose Weight and Keep It Off (Crown 2011). According to Monroe, Dr, Amen discovered the connection between the brain and overeating from results of two of his earlier research projects. The first was a home study course on anxiety and depression, based on scientific evidence that people could improve mood and reduce anxiety by implementing home strategies. “When Amen followed up with the 90 participants, he found that many felt less anxious, had better memory and focus, and – surprisingly-had lost 10, 20 and even 30 pounds in 12 weeks,” said Monroe.
Listening to My Body and to Me Honoring the intelligence of my body is a priority. I believe if I listen to it (it takes practice) my body will tell me everything I need to know to keep it alive and well. If I have an ache, I tend to it. If I feel tired, I rest. If I feel hungry I eat. I eat anything I want, really enjoy what I’m eating and stop eating when I’m full. Some of the principles I found works for me: - When I look into the mirror, I feel okay about the woman I see. Of course
I always want improvement, but I feel good right now. - I don’t believe in deprivation. No food is off limits. If I want it I eat it. However, I also believe that anything is fine in moderation. - I only eat when I’m hungry. I don’t buy into “It’s noon so I have to have lunch”. I don’t eat several small meals. Instead of being afraid of hunger, I enjoy the feeling. Sometimes when I’m hungry water will satisfy me. - I remind myself I always have choices. I am the one creating my happiness. I ask myself, “Will that piece of chocolate cake really make me happy?” - Everything I eat or drink tastes very good. That means no non-fat anything and very little processed food – mostly local and/or organic. When it stops tasting delicious, I stop eating it. I do this with ice cream. I found the first few bites tastes great, but then the rest is just okay so I save it for another time. - I try to balance my food intake. I think about what I am doing and what I will be eating for the day. If I have bread for breakfast I won’t have it at dinner. If morning meal was high in protein I will have more vegetables at dinner. - When I go to a restaurant I read over the menu and choose the meal that will make me feel the best to eat. Often I select two or three choices and imagine eating each one to determine the best one for me. - I do some form of exercise most every day. I only do what I love to do (I hate jogging!) I don’t know what I weight or how much weight I lost. I don’t care. In fact, I found that weighing myself does not make me feel good. I know when I ate too much – I feel it! So I adjust the next day or two. I also know when my pants are a little tight. I’ll drink more water or adjust my food intake. Most of all, I am not wedded to the outcome. My goal is to feel good, NOT lose weight. By adjusting my thoughts, letting go of long-held beliefs and having fun with the process, I found I am achieving without struggle something I yearned for most of my life. Pattie Cinelli is a f itness professional and health and f itness writer. She personal trains, teaches yoga and Pilates and is launching her Mind/Body Balance for Weight Loss Program this month. For more information please contact her at: f itness@pattiecinelli.com. ★
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NEW YEAR ! NEW YOU ! Champion Tattoo
and loyalty, and sleeves that are a continuous work of art. They don’t do anything racist, but pretty everything else is on the table.
Get Inked on Barracks Row by Heather Schoell
No Regrets
Champion Tattoo owner Butch Johnson. Photo: Andrew Lightman
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attoos used to be the brand of soldiers, sailors, bikers and hippies. There’s a timeline of history that follows tattooing from primitive to refined and back to primitive. Butch Johnson, owner of Champion Tattoo Company, has brought his expertise and that of his team to a bright and shiny new shop on Barracks Row. Check it out.
Around the World & Home Again Butch Johnson got into tattooing about 16 years ago. He’s originally from here, but had an itch to see the world, so with the money he made from tattooing, he set off. He became fluent in Spanish living in Barcelona, Spain for 10 years while he ran a tattoo business in Leeds, England. He’d spend some time at the shop, and then head back to Spain. He did tattoo conventions in Rome and Prague; Butch has tattooed his way across the US and Europe. Eventually, DC called, and Butch returned to open Champion Tattoo Company on Barracks Row. Champion is at the front of the building – bright, open, and airy, with photos of the staff ’s tattoos lining the staircase, and their painted art on the walls inside. There is a faint odor of clean90 ★ HillRag | January 2012
ing products. Butch recently hosted a fundraiser there for the Wounded Warriors Project, bringing in $1,600 for this worthy cause. Champion has four artists. Butch tattoos traditional style, Japanese, tribal – he can do whatever you like. He loves art on skin, how it changes with movement, as opposed to works on flat canvas. Stacey Gear, an accomplished artist who has tattooed for 20 years, describes her work as versatile –- she enjoys it all, and loves covering up unwanted tattoos. Kyle Oxford has been tattooing for six years, and does everything, including piercing. Anniatole, who has tattooed for 12 years, was an airbrush artist; his specialty is black and grey in a comics style.
Evolution While the tattoo hardware has changed little from the machines of the 1930s and 40s, the ink quality and color has improved, and the consumer has gotten more knowledgeable about styles and what they want. “It used to be that you’d walk in and pick something out on the wall,” said Butch. This was back in the days of the Coleman style, a 1930s tattooist who had a shop in Norfolk, VA, where the sailors came in for their pinup girl or their Ameri-
“In England, I’d say 60% of the people coming in wanted a cover up,” said Butch. “They were young when they got tattooed –- 15 to 18 years old, and they made poor choices. Many of them hadn’t been exposed to good An artist tattoos a customer. Photo: Andrew Lightman tattooing.” They try to avoid that at Champion. “I give them three strikes,” Butch explains. He tells people to wait, don’t rush into it, and be sure that’s what they want. “I don’t think all shops do that,” Stacey said. She recalled a young guy who wanted his first tattoo to be a scorpion on his neck. “I told him he was young and he didn’t know what he might want to do some day,” she said. “I told him that he would be judged, and that he should think about having it where it could be covered up.” Stacey has helped people change their lives by changing their tattoos. “I love doing cover-ups,” she said. A example of Champion’s work. “You see someone with a bad tattoo Photo: Champion Tattoo – it can really affect their lives, their self-esteem.” One guy couldn’t get a can eagle before they shoved off. The late 60s and early 70s saw the job because of a visible gang tattoo introduction of brilliant color, and from his younger, stupider years. She bikers and hippies got in on the action obscured it, and now he can lead a with custom-drawn tattoos. Japanese- normal life. If you have something to celinfluenced art became more popular in the late 70s, and tribal art made its ebrate, or an idea or phrase you hold sacred, consider having it emblazoned way to mainstream. What has happened is that “people on your skin at Champion. Or get used to have to go through a book and hammered and see what you came up pick something out,” Butch explained. with! (You can always visit Stacey for “The artist would do something based a fix.) Check out Champion Tattoo on that. Now plagiarism is rampant. People print something out at home Company’s incredible work on Faceand want that exact thing, rather than book, pop in at 409 8th St. SE, visit championtattoocompany.com , or call an interpretation of it.” Another evolution of tattoo is that (202) 480-2233. Open 7 days, 11am people from all walks of life get tat- to 8pm. toos. Champion artists do personal Heather Schoell is a mildly pierced, inkless conand cathartic tattoos, milestones, tributor to Capital Community News and can tramp stamps, expressions of freedom be reached at hschoell@verizon.net. ★
DOES IT WORK? ZAGGORA HOT PANTS by Jen Zatkowski
O
oohh, are you having a boy or a girl? I get asked that question all too often lately and am trying to do something about it. I had 3 c-sections in 39 months and my body shows it. So when I get the Groupon, Living Social and Buy With Me offers for exercise equipment, I read them twice. Recently, one of these sites offered Zaggora HotPants for half off. Lose 2 dress sizes in 2 weeks? I was in. According to the ad, specially engineered CeluLite technology increases perspiration by up to 80%, reducing body fat and the visible appearance of cellulite. Those areas covered by HotPants reflect back the heat generated by your body to more deeply warm the tissue, which leads to greater perspiration, and therefore breaking down fat and toxins. Made if what feels like the neoprene of a wetsuit, they covered from just under my sports bra to my knees. And a bit oddly shaped – snug around my belly, they inexplicably rounded out at the hips, then veered back in at the thighs and billowed out at my knees. All sleek black, with a large neon yelJen Zatkowski in her Hot Pants. low “HOT PANTS” emblazoned on one thigh. I tugged them on, and went out for a stated that I would derive benefits run. wearing them even while not exWell, they definitely increase ercising, there was no way I was perspiration. I was immediately hot sporting these around the Hill or at and sweaty under the HotPants, and Harris Teeter. But over the next two very self-conscious. I felt like every weeks, I did wear them running, tourist and runner on the mall was both on the treadmill and outside. staring directly at the big yellow I wore them to classes at the gym, patch screaming HOT PANTS! on and I did putter around the house my thigh. And while the manual in them. And boy, did I sweat. And
boy, was I thirsty ALL the time. But the ultimate test, I felt, was my Bikram Yoga class. A mecca of sweat on a normal day, I wanted to truly test the claims of the Hot Pants in 90 minutes of 110 degree heat. I must admit I was afraid to wear them to hot yoga, and kept putting it off. And it was torture. Within minutes, I was sweating too much for
the Hot Pants to even handle, and there was a steady stream pouring from the loose side of each leg! I had no idea my butt could prune up like my fingers and toes! Without a doubt, the Hot Pants dramatically increased my perspiration in these extreme circumstances. For a more professional perspective, I checked them out with Emmanuella St. Juste, of Just e Fitness. A certified personal trainer, Emmanuella has been in the fitness industry since 1998 and has seen it all. While she said the breathable material would definitely make you sweat more without overheating, the cellulite-reducing claims weren’t likely. And sweating more doesn’t release more toxins – just more water. One benefit she did identify was that the Hot Pants gave me better form in all my exercises. Because they covered up to my bra, I was forced to hold my core in tighter and engaged my abs more fully. That likely led to my flatter stomach. Ultimately, she felt that the money spent on HotPants would be better spent on a good pair of running shoes. After two weeks of trying out my HotPants, I can definitely see a difference. While my pants are looser, I really didn’t lose two sizes, but my lower stomach is noticeably flatter. And I have kept wearing them – running, to the gym. But I haven’t braved yoga again. As it is, I am still thirsty! If you have a product you want me to try, please email me at jenzatkowski@gmail.com. To reach Emmanuella, email Emmanuella@ justef itness.com. ★
capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 91
NEW YEAR ! NEW YOU ! The Lowdown on Supplements How to Make Better Choices by Pattie Cinelli
H
undreds of supplements are available to buy in all kinds of stores and on line. The choices can be overwhelming. Not only are there a variety of supplements, but also there are several different brands of the same vitamin, herb or mineral. How do we determine if we should be taking supplements and how do we know what we are taking is doing the job we want – supplementing our daily diet to keep us healthy and feeling good? Not all supplements are created equal. And not all are suited for everyone. However, despite the adverse publicity given to supplements (see box below on Vitamin E) the most recent study in 2008 reported not one death from taking supplements. According to both medical professionals I interviewed, that same study reported more than 30,000 fatal overdoses from taking prescribed pharmaceuticals.
Who should take supplements? “Supplements are not a substitute for a good diet,” said Dr. Joe Tarantolo, a psychiatrist who is also an herbalist and nutrition counselor on Capitol Hill. “Eating well (organic foods, minimal processed food, balanced diet) is the first priority. Then you can supplement your diet with vitamins, herbs and minerals.” He points out that while it would be ideal to get all your nutritional needs from food, “food now is much more beautiful and much less nutritious. The nutrients we had years ago are absent from our soil.” For example, selenium is no longer found in soil. “You 92 ★ HillRag | January 2012
won’t get it from almonds no matter how many you eat.” Dr. Tarantolo recommends taking supplements to add to your diet versus taking supplements to assist in getting well from disease. He quoted an ancient Chinese proverb, “Treating illness with supplements is like drilling for a well when you are thirsty.” He also stressed that cultivating love in your life will do more for your well being than any supplement you can take. Most people can benefit from the addition of some supplements into their diet. Both Dr. Tarantolo and Dr. Julia Wray, a holistic chiropractor and nutritional counselor in Old Town Alexandria can assess what you are taking and suggest what may help. Several years ago I took my supplements to an herbalist. She reviewed them and advised what I should add and could eliminate. This past summer I wanted another assessment. I felt I had too many pills to take each day and wasn’t sure they were what I currently needed. Dr. Tarantolo evaluated my health, and then examined my vitamins and minerals. We reviewed why I was taking each. He made suggestions. “Who should take supplements is a tough call,” he said. “It depends on a number of factors including the kind of food you eat, your lifestyle, your age and your overall health.” He said that children and pregnant women should probably be taking fish oil because it is important for brain development. However, if they are eating grass-fed beef they are getting more fish oils from their meat than people eat-
Dr. Joe Tarantolo. Photo: Andrew Lightman
Vitamin E Takes a Bad Rap by Joe Tarantolo, MD he headline in a Washington Post story on Oct. 12, 2011 read, “Study Links Vitamin E to Higher Prostate Cancer Risk”. It was bad reporting and a terrible study bordering on the unethical for the following reasons: 1. There are eight different components of vitamin E. The researchers gave subjects the wrong vitamin E (alpha tocopherol) which has been shown to actually lower the level of the gamma and delta vitamin E components which have the real cancer prevention capabilities. 2. Researchers used a haphazard method of diagnosing prostate cancer, completely ignoring the fact the American conventional medicine has no good diagnostic tools for making the diagnosis of this serious disease. 3. The Washington Post story and the press release from the Journal of the American Medical Association ( JAMA), the premiere medical journal in the country, do not mention that there were fewer overall deaths (743) in the vitamin E only group compared to the placebo group (802). 4. No decent naturopath would ever give alpha-tocopherol to a patient as the only supplement. Among the 21 authors of the study, 19 were MDs. There was not a naturopath, nutritionist or herbalist in the 21. 5. Researchers made matters worse by arbitrarily giving on a “volunteer” basis multi-vitamins which had no vitamin E or selenium in them.
T
Claire P. Cargill, DDS ing corn fed beef. He also advises that menstruating women probably need additional iron and B vitamins. Those who take birth control pills need B vitamins and ďŹ sh oil. He warns men and nonmenstruating women not to take extra iron. “Studies have found excess iron promotes cancer and heart disease.â€? He also suggests anyone over the age of 60 take B-12. “We are under the mistaken notion that older women should take calcium. However magnesium is deďŹ cient in probably more than 50 percent of the population. If a doctor tells you to take calcium make sure there is an equal amount of magnesium in it.â€? Dr. Tarantolo suggests talking to someone who is a specialist in the area of supplements such as a naturopath, herbalist or holistic practitioner to ďŹ nd out what is correct for you. He said what we are discovering is that herbs used in cooking have medicinal beneďŹ ts as well as enhancing the food’s avor. “Research has shown that Indians have one-tenth the colon cancer than Americans which can be attributed to their use of turmeric. It has been found that reservatrol found in grapes has a protective aect on the heart and has anticancer beneďŹ ts.â€? Dr. Tarantolo tells the story of how reservatrol was discovered. “In the 1920s a nurse came up with a grape cure for cancer. She was thought to be a quack. Now we’ve found substance in the grape skin and grape seed that has anticancer beneďŹ ts. She wasn’t a quack after all.â€? Dr. Tarantolo advises consumers to be wary of media reports that warn against taking any supplements. “It’s in the interest of the pharmaceutical industry not to have supplements work.â€? He showed me 61 pages of references to studies backing up the eďŹƒcacy of vitamin C particularly with heart disease. “The worse that will happen if you take too much is you’ll get an upset stomach.â€? Yet media
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demonstration test of the BioMeridian machine she has, a galvanic noninvasive skin response test to assess which major systems and organs of the body are stressed or weakened.
What is Biomeridian Testing
Dr. Julia Wray, a holistic chiropractor and nutritional counselor in Old Town Alexandria.
stories continue to appear about the vitamin’s ineffectiveness. He advises that if a person has an active cancer, heart disease or another ailment, the patient should work with a professional outside the medical profession about which supplements can help. “In Italy, patients who have had heart attacks automatically are put on fish oil.” He also thinks that taking a multivitamin is a good practice for most. “The vitamins work together to absorb in the blood stream. If you take too much of one kind of fat soluble vitamins (A, D, K) it will compete with the others and won’t absorb as well.”
Tailoring Supplements to Individual Need What traditional Western medical practitioners often do is treat symptoms to help a patient feel better. For example, in 1993 I developed 94 ★ HillRag | January 2012
a sinus infection. The pain was almost unbearable. I went to a doctor who prescribed antibiotics. While the infection disappeared and the pain went away, the antibiotics made me sick. I also never learned why I got the sinus infection. I made a pact with myself that I would never experience that pain again. I’ve made an effort to feel when my sinuses are out of balance and take preventive measures to eliminate the imbalance BEFORE it develops into an infection. Last month when I visited Dr. Wray, I talked to her about how she determines what supplements a person needs to bring his/her body into balance. I was not seeing her for any sinus problems. “One way to find out if a person has enough nutrients in his/her body is to test blood, saliva or stool,” she said. Another is using the Biomeridian machine. “We can then assess what a client is deficient in and make recommendations.” I took a
How is your health? Until now you had no way to effectively or accurately determine your state of health. PET or CAT scans are beneficial to assess specific information, however new technology called the BioMeridian unit has the capacity to non- invasively assess the energy meridians (channels) of the body and determines functionality of organs and tissues of your body accurately. According to Biomeridian’s website (www. biomeridian.com) the technology used in the BioMeridian combines the life work of two doctors. Dr. Reckeweg spent his life documenting the six phases of 600 different conditions and their progression. The other, Dr. Reinhold Voll documented the acupressure points, that when measured, accurately show the functions of the tissues and organs associated with that point. With several advances in computers and measuring devices, inventors at BioMeridian have produced a ways of helping clients not only know where they stand, but also provide natural remedies that encourage a balance body. In about an hour, a client may be tested using a small current (not a shock) on Voll’s 60 acupressure points (on your hands and feet) that measure the resistance of the tissues and combine them with Reckweg’s phases of progression of conditions. A client gets a graph showing strengths and weaknesses in his/her body. The machine then allows Dr. Wray’s associate Michelle Dion to use the software to match up the best nutritional choices available from whole food supplements or
herbs. I was curious. Michelle agreed to let me try out the machine using seven demonstration points. Out of the seven points my weakest was allergies. I don’t have allergies so, using the software, Michelle probed deeper. The weak point was my sinuses. Dr. Wray had three sinus supplements available. Michelle then used the Biomeridian machine to determine which supplement would bring me into balance and to determine what the correct dosage for me would be. “I can see how the supplement will work before a client leaves the office, unlike a doctor who writes a prescription and never really knows if it is the correct one for the patient.” After just one dose I found it so much easier to breathe. I didn’t realize how congested I was. I wasn’t sick, yet I got accustomed to not breathing freely. I didn’t know how much better I could feel. Dr. Wray’s goal for clients is to help them achieve a level of wellness for themselves. “I help educated and guide them. I also want clients to leave here with no more than six supplements.” Some walk into Dr. Wray’s office with a suitcase of supplements and still don’t feel well. That’s when she and Michelle use the Biomeridian machine to find imbalances, pare down the quantity and improve the quality of the supplements.
Prevention and Accountability Supplements are not an easy answer or a quick fix for inactivity, poor eating habits or a stress-filled life. Both Dr. Tarantolo and Dr. Wray said clients have to be accountable for how they choose to live their lives. Accepting recommendations, complying with them, monitoring how you feel and making adjustments are all part of the process for staying well. It’s not about popping a few pills and forgetting about it. It’s a daily give-and-take; up-and-down ride that requirements a commitment for being the best you can be until the day you die. To contact Dr. Joe Tarantolo call: 202-543-5290. To contact Dr. Julia Wray, Cornerstone Chiropractic call: 703-836-2225. Pattie Cinelli is a health/fitness professional, writer and lecturer. To contact her email: fitness@pattiecinelli.com. ★
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NEW YEAR ! NEW YOU ! Beyond Happiness Having a Life In Which You Flourish by Ronda Bresnick Hauss, LCSW
I
f happiness is a mood - that is, a temporary state in which we feel good at any given moment - perhaps it is not the key to getting the most out of life. After all, who among us can sustain a happy mood each and every moment of the day? So what does it mean to create a life beyond the momentary blips of happiness we experience - a life in which we are flourishing? And, what if it is possible to take specific actions that promote a flourishing life? These are the questions raised by Martin Seligman - PhD psychologist and former President of the American Psychological Association - in his newest book, “Flourish”. Seligman is a research scientist - and a conservative one according to his own description. And yet, he puts himself out on a limb again and again in this book.
Here’s one example: “The first dirty little secret of biological psychiatry and clinical psychology is that they both have given up the notion of a cure [for depression]. Cure takes too long if it can be done at all, and only brief treatment is reimbursed by insurance companies. So therapy and drugs are now entirely about short-term crisis management and about dispensing cosmetic treatments”. Seligman asks if medication works only on relieving symptoms of depression but not on promoting a cure - what about the possibility of a cure for depression? He is both personally interested in this (as a depressive himself ) and professionally drawn to the challenge. Much of psychotherapy and drugs helps a person feel less depressed 96 ★ HillRag | January 2012
(which is of course important) - but what about moving beyond that to building conditions that promote well being? The skills for flourishing - for feeling good, have meaning in life, having good work, deep, lasting relationships and positive accomplishment are very different than the skills for minimizing suffering or helping people to feel less depressed. Seligman, the founder of the positive psychology movement, is an enthusiastic inventor of ways in which we can flourish in our lives. His approaches are easy, often fun to do and his research shows markedly lowered depression three and six months later. He has developed a wide range of exercises that help people cultivate the skills for increasing pleasure, engagement and meaning, optimism and hope in their lives.
Here’s a simple exercise you can try: Seligman notes that we human
beings think too much about what goes wrong in our lives and not enough about what goes right. This is for sound evolutionary reasons preparing for disaster when human beings lived in the ice age helped us to survive. However, today, this focus on negative events is less useful and sets us up for depression and anxiety. One way we can prevent the focus on the negative is to develop a practice about thinking about and savoring what has gone well. The exercise is to set aside ten minutes before you go to sleep every night for the next week, and write down three things that went well today and why they went well. Next to each positive event, answer the question - why did this happen? The three things can be as simple as, “My husband picked up ice cream on the way home” or as life-changing as “My sister just gave birth to a healthy baby boy.” The why may be, “Because my husband is thoughtful” or “because my sister took good care
of herself during her pregnancy”. According to Seligman’s research, the odds are that you will be less depressed, and happier for having done this exercise for a week and he asserts if you continue, The effects will continu as well. Here’s one more very simple exercise - the kindness exercise. Find one wholly unexpected kind thing to do tomorrow and just do it. Notice what happens to your mood. Seligman’s mission is to spread well being in the world and he notes that when individuals flourish, health, productivity and peace follow. He envisions not only therapy sessions in which people are taught to flourish, but positive education in which teachers embed the principles of well being into what they teach, teaching resilience in the army to reduce the affects of post traumatic stress, positive business in which the goal of commerce is not only profit but also better relationships and more meaning. And finally, a government that will be judged by how much it increases the well being of the governed and not just by economic growth. Seligman announces in his book that the long run mission of positive psychology is that 51% of the people of the world will be flourishing by 2051. That’s an audacious goal - but why not think positively? Ronda Bresnick Hauss is a licensed clinical social worker and the founder of the Quiet Waters Center for Trauma, Stress and Resilience, on Capitol Hill. She uses an integrative & holistic approach to psychotherapy – addressing the connection between the mind, body and spirit through the use of traditional talk therapy, meditation, visualization, and creative, non-verbal techniques. She can be reached at: 202-544-5050 and is on the web at: HYPERLINK “http://www.quietwaterscenter.com ★
Newxplorer Dular K. Niyangoda (202) 536-2555 newxplorer.com Travel & Leisure placed Sri Lanka as the number one destination to visit in 2012, along with National Geographic Traveler naming Sri Lanka as one of the top destinations for 2012. Dular Niyangoda has been 20 years on the Hill, but maintains his connections in Sri Lanka, connections such as an ornithology expert who will take you on a private birding tour of this lush country. Each visit to this tropical, biodiversity hotspot is custom designed by Newxplorer. Because it is a private tour, you pick your dates and they do the rest. Choose your calling – relaxing beaches, intriguing ancient kingdoms, immersion in wildlife sanctuaries, or exploration of biodiversity. Sri Lanka is home to eight UNESCO World Culture sites. Luxury is surprisingly affordable, and with all your travel guided and your accommodations hand-selected, there is nothing to do but soak it in. Make 2012 the year you make it happen. Nexplorer’s Dular Niyangoda with wife Jennifer. Photo by Jessica S. Zucher
Indigo Frenzy Jennifer Baker 1412 Pennsylvania Ave., SE 202-543-2274 Jennifer Baker opened Indigo Frenzy in August, and this clothing store for women and kids has flown under the radar. But take note, Jennifer has added consignment to her repertoire –bring in your high- to mid-end clothing for re-sale. While you’re there, pick up a cool bolero to pair with jeans for your weekend look, or a sequined top to change into to take black slacks from office to after-hours. Jennifer describes her clothing as trendy and boutique style, but affordable. Clothing, outerwear, fashion jewelry, accessories, and shoes. Sizes range from small to 22 in pants and 3X in tops. Open Mon. to Sat., 11am to 8pm. Special – take 15% off your purchase the 1st week of January!
by Heather Schoell
Jennifer Baker of Indigo Frenzy.
Downey School Consulting E.V. Downey DowneySchoolConsulting@gmail.com E.V. Downey, with her nine years in Admissions at St. Anselm’s and her personal experience with special needs children in schools, brings her vast knowledge of DCarea schools to helping busy parents make informed decisions. E.V. says she can save people hours of research since she knows the quality of Metro-area schools and has done the site visits. She can help analyze educational testing and the appropriateness of IEPs and school settings to optimize school placement and facilitate advocates, if necessary. E.V. looks at the wishes of individuals – learning styles (experiential or traditional), geographical location (School ABC is right by a parent’s office), and customizes a set of best options. In short, E.V. can advise on schools from preschool to 12th grade. Join E.V. for her free talk, Lottery 101 – what you need to know about the process of school choice – Jan. 11 at 7pm, upstairs at the Family Room, 411 8th St. SE.
“@ Your Service” is a compendium of what’s happening in the service and consumer industry on the Hill. Know something really cool and new for sale or for service? Let us know! Heather Schoell is a regular contributor to Capital Community News and can be reached at hschoell@verizon. net. ★
E.V. Downey knows schools. capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 97
Happy New Year ~ From the Capitol Realty Team!
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202-548-8731 • www.capitolrealtyteam.com
ARTS & Dining Big Shows Come in Small Packages article by Barbara Wells | photos by Christopher Mueller
Tracy Turnblad (Carolyn Cole, center) and the cast of “Hairspray.”
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ignature artistic director Eric Schaeffer brings “Hairspray” lots of heart and a little soul in a fresh production that feels up close and personal. On Broadway-style stages and movie screens, the show typically comes across as a caricature of something beyond our experience. The time—1962; the place—working-class, segregated Baltimore; the people—teens obsessed with a dance show they watch on one of just three TV channels; and not least of all an enormous transvestite playing Edna, mother of the show’s heroine. Not so at Signature. Schaeffer brings Hairspray an immediacy that lends more weight to
the show’s serious undercurrents about prejudice against both blacks and heavy people—all to an intoxicating rock and roll beat. Scenic designer Daniel Conway gets a large share of the credit. He’s surrounded his audience with music and dancing and put them within spitting distance of vintage billboards, fire escapes and facades that evoke a tired urban neighborhood. Seated next to one of two ramps that carry exuberant, dancing cast members to the stage—itself not more than 20 feet away—I could feel the floor shake and wished I could get up and dance too. Leading this bouncing cast is Carolyn Cole as Tracy Turnblad, the earnest
young fan of the Corny Collins show. Cole is all adolescent enthusiasm and breathless wonder—along with the signature chubbiness that bars her from becoming one of Corny’s “Nicest Kids in Town” who dance on his show. With little more than her inner moral compass driving her to protest racial segregation, her every reaction shows us why she can’t resist the impulse. She can’t even stand next to her idol, Elvis wannabe Link Larkin, without falling into a trance at the scent of his armpit. When she witnesses the dance moves of her black schoolmates during detention, her body unconsciously starts copying them before she even knows what she’s doing. capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 99
capitolstreets news
A Chat with Robert Aubry Davis
Robert Aubry Davis (as Edna Turnblad) and Harry A. Winter (as Wilbur Turnblad) sing “You’re Timeless to Me.” James Hayden Rodriguez (as Seaweed) shows Lauren Williams (as Penny Lou Pingleton) some trendy new dance moves.
She is simply a slave to her senses—and sensibility. Soon Tracy is captivated by the sweet and sexy Seaweed, the cool black teen played with equal parts danger and charm by James Hayden Rodriguez. He draws Tracy and her sidekick Penny Lou Pingleton (Lauren Williams) into rhythm and blues and then a forbidden black culture—one that might as well be on the other side of the world as on the other side of Baltimore. He introduces Penny and Tracy to his mother, a TV personality called Motormouth Maybell—a jaw-dropping Nova Y. Payton who captures all the pain, frustration and infinite potential of African Americans and large women alike in two show-stopping songs, “Big, Blonde & Beautiful” and “I Know Where I’ve Been.” For the part of Edna, Tracy’s agoraphobic mother, there’s a certain genius to casting a man who is unaccustomed to appearing in drag. 100 ★ HillRag | January 2012
The part was originated by Divine—a transvestite with painted lips and famously arched eyebrows—and usually seems conceived as an ironic inside joke. Edna is shy, awkward, sheltered and clueless about fashion and glamour … Ha! Not. While Divine was Edna’s polar opposite, for once a director has chosen an actor who completely identifies with and humanizes this character. Robert Aubry Davis, the well-known radio personality and fan of all things classic, rarely acts, never dances and by all accounts wears a tuxedo when he dresses up. Something of a fish out of water in this show, Davis conveys all of Edna’s shy quirks and genuine astonishment and awe at the talents and nerve of the teens surrounding him—and ultimately the discovery that, yes, he is beautiful too. He also has a nice affinity for Baltimore and its accent; hovering over an ironing board in his first scene, Davis shoos his
A
fter watching Robert Aubry Davis on WETA’s “Around Town,” listening to him host the classical channels on Sirius XM, and seeing him in the audience at dozens of Washington area theatre performances, it’s nothing short of a shock to see him take on the role of Edna in Hairspray. What possessed him? According to Davis, director Eric Schaeffer plotted his musical debut for 18 months before asking him to play Edna in March 2010. Davis’ reply: “No, no, no.” He’s performed a one-man show as Bach since 1985, done some choral and glee club singing, and was even a “folkie tenor” in his “hippie days,” but Davis never imagined putting on a dress and dancing to “You Can’t Stop the Beat.” Then his women friends told him what a perfect Edna he would be. By June, he says, “Something snapped.” “At the very first rehearsal, when I went in and strapped on my 54 triple-E brassiere, I knew I was at the top of a roller coaster ride,” Davis recalls. “I told (choreographer) Karma Camp, ‘I don’t dance.’ She said, ‘Honey, I made Pat Carroll look like she can dance and she doesn’t have any knees!’” Beyond singing, dancing and memorizing lines, Davis tackled a particularly grueling schedule: eight shows a week for 10 weeks, the longest run ever for a Signature production. “Actors work freakin’ HARD!” he exclaims. “I’ve been a construction worker. I’ve
worked 100 hours a week for two radio programs. I’ve been a waiter…. This is among the top three or four hardest jobs I’ve had. I ask the cast, how do you go to the store? When do you pay your bills?” Davis credits the young cast with holding him up through the show, and in turn he’s given them a window on growing up in the fifties and sixties (note: couldn’t we end this sentence here? Is region really important or is the point about growing up in the 50s and 60s?)in Washington, less than an hour from Hairspray’s Baltimore. “I brought in books— what people were reading in ’62. Best sellers, books on women’s rights and a play production book from the fifties; album covers, civil rights music and also Bobby Rydell and Chubby Checker. I tell them Metrecal was a real product—I drank it! And back then the civil rights leaders, like Jesse Jackson, were just kids—no older than the kids in this cast.” But Davis brings to the show something much deeper than memories: firsthand knowledge of living large. “I’m sorry, John Travolta, but no one who is not large can play this role,” he says. “It takes more than putting on a fat suit to understand what it’s like to be a fat person. People who are portly or homely are still treated as they’ve always been treated.” So maybe he has the big part down, but how does Davis relate to playing a woman? “I am very fortunate. I have scores of wonderful women friends, and they are much more available emotionally and share more than men,” he explains. “A very close friend said ‘You have a daughter. The way you feel about her is very maternal. When you play Edna, think about how you feel about your daughter.’ That was a hugely important piece for me. That turned the key.” “But I had no context for dressing up,” Davis says. “I don’t understand that feeling of excitement when you dress up. So my friends told me to think about what makes me happy. For me that’s making my women friends happy. When Edna appears in her beautiful dress, I want every one of the women in the audience to be glowing; I want to shine for them.” “Hairspray” is at Signature Theatre through January 29. As a show of Davis’ admiration for women, he created a special treat just for them: When ordering tickets, women can ask for the “RAD” discount and get 10 percent off the price.
daughter away with a cry of “I’m tryin’ to AHRN in here!!” Davis made a special request for Harry A. Winter to play Edna’s husband Wilbur, saying “If I’m going to kiss a man on stage, I want to feel absolute comfort.” As a result, Winter up-ends one more Hairspray joke—that Wilbur could actually be hopelessly in love with a woman like Edna for 20 years. Exuding warmth, admiration and affection for his old friend Davis, Winter convinces us that not only can Wilbur find Edna completely adorable, but we can too. Beyond the leads, all of the show’s actors are spot on. I couldn’t take my eyes off Lauren Williams as Penny Lou. For twothirds of the show she embodies the rigid, repressed, bespectacled geek—whose mother literally ties her to the bed when she steps out of line. But her jerky movements and tiny bursts of pent up energy hint she’s about to combust. When she finally does, her transformation is one of the most gratifying in the show. Other stand-outs include Patrick Thomas Cragin as the suave Link Larkin, who gives up shallow dreams of becoming the next Elvis to stand by Tracy in her crusade for integration; Sherri L. Edelen as the wicked TV producer Velma Von Tussle, who relegates black teens to her show’s “Negro Day” and plots to make her daughter Amber— played with sugar-coated venom by Erin Driscoll—the next Miss Baltimore; and Stephen Gregory Smith as Corny Collins himself, a TV star who plays along with racist management while seizing every chance to break the confines of their mold. What more can we ask from a musical? It’s like a great party— plenty of music, fun and laughter, with just enough authentic humanity to raise our consciousness along with our spirits. Barbara Wells is a writer and editor for Reingold, a social marketing communications firm. She and her husband live on Capitol Hill. ★
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ARTS& Dining
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by Celeste McCall
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pring has sprung, but not on the calendar. For months, neighbors had been peering into the former phone store at 701 Eighth St. SE. At long last, Spring Mill Bread Company opened November 29. The Barracks Row location is the first Washington spinoff of the upscale bakery chain; four others are scattered in suburban Maryland. We have checked out the yeasty newcomer. We admired the inviting decor of brick-lined walls with four round, glossy wooden tables. Then we sampled a moist, delicious bread which tasted like spicy pumpkin. Other choices –all baked in Spring Mill’s Bethesda kitchen–include honeywhole wheat, seven-grain crunch, cinnamon swirl, whole-grain cinnamon raison, and other delectable varieties. We also saw gingerbread men and other cookies, scones, muffins, brownies and, naturally, cupcakes. For lunch, customers may select from a wide array of sandwiches and may even build their own concoctions. Highly recommended are the “all natural” soups, a welcome addition this time of year. To slather on those freshly-baked breads, Spring Mill also markets a line of jams and jellies as well as apple butter. Yes, there is coffee. Spring Mill also delivers, caters and prepares box lunches. For more information call 202-547-9190 or visit www.springmillbread.com.
And Just next door at Tunnicliff ’s, 222 Seventh St. SE, be sure to rest your elbows on the recently refinished bar and sample the artichoke spinach dip, fried calamari, burger or jumbo lump crabcakes. Open daily; call 202-544-5680.
Lotsa Pasta Now that’s a pasta maker. We don’t mean those old fashioned, handcranked things popular a few years ago, but Toscana Café’s gleaming, state-ofthe art pasta extrusion machine. Imported from Modena, Italy, the $8,500 contraption does everything but sing “O Sole Mio.” Toscana proprietor Daniele Catalani proudly demonstrated the machine’s myriad capabilities. First, he pours in flour and eggs; the machine mixes the dough. With changeable “heads” and/
102 ★ HillRag | January 2012
salad or chili; followed by a sandwich or wrap, plus a soft drink, juice, coffee or tea. Weekend brunch (french toast, omelettes, eggs Chesapeake and “bottomless mimosas”), goes from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Call 202-543-3622 or www.18thdc.com.
Beer here
South of the Border in Southwest
Here’s something fun to launch 2012. One evening a month, Belga Café’s Chef Bart Vandaele is pairing a three course dinner with selections from his mind-boggling beer list of more than 150 Belgian varieties. The year’s first repast is January 24, starting at 6:30 p.m. Bart’s regular ala carte menu–featuring mussels (with different sauces), pan-seared scallops and divine lamb chops–is also available. Each prix fixe dinner is paired with at least one beer or ale per course but possibly more. Dinners range in price from $49 to $69 depending on the beers. Belga Café is located at 514 Eighth St. SE (Barracks Row); for more information call 202-544-0100 or www.belgacafe.com.
Coming soon
Boxed in Also brand new is Box Car Tavern, 224 Seventh St. SE. The latest enterprise of restauranteur Xavier Cervera, the spiffy tavern was slated to debut by year’s end. Heading Box Car’s semiexposed kitchen is Brendan Tharp, formerly of Baltimore’s Blue Hill Tavern. The handsome, elongated space really does resemble a box car, with glossy wooden flooring and tables and comfy looking booths.
memories of Tuscany.) “This is the freshest pasta you can get in town,” said Catalani, who plans to sell his daily-made noodles by the pound, as well as his own tomato sauces, jams and extra virgin olive oil. The latter is squeezed by his father, who ships the precious oil –with Catalani’s label--directly from Italy. (By the way, Catalani’s partner Georgios Patsalides comes from Cyprus, another olive oil producing country.) Open daily, Toscana Café is located at 601 Second St. NE (near Union Station); call 202525-2693 or www.toscanacafedc.com.
Toscana’s Daniele Catalani with his new pasta extrusion machine. Photo: Andrew Lightman
or a blade, the pasta maker churns out spaghetti, penne, fusalli, and flat sheets which can be shaped into lasagna or ravioli. (We sampled his freshly made spaghetti and it brought back delicious
Due to arrive in the Atlas Center at 1242 H St. NE is Da Luft, an 80seat seafood restaurant reportedly with evening entertainment. Stay tuned.
Lunch bunch The 18th Amendment, 613 Pennsylvania Ave. SE now serves weekday lunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Besides the regular menu, there’s a two-course $10 deal with choice of soup, pasta
Gone Ba Bay, the upscale “modern” Vietnamese restaurant at 633 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, has departed, after only about a year in business. We will miss the kitchen’s innovative take on Southeast Asian dishes.
Burritos and other Southwest fare have arrived in–of all places--Southwest DC. Moe’s Southwest Grill, has opened at 470 L’Enfant Plaza, SW. The casual eatery serves made-to-order burritos and other Southwest fare in a laid back environment. “We’re excited to bring fresh flavors and great value that Moe’s has to offer to the Washington, D.C. community,” says franchise owner Saleh Mohamadi. “Moe’s healthy offerings and friendly, speedy service are ideal for such a busy city.” He added that Moe’s signature greeting, “Welcome to Moe’s!” is more than a salutation; it’s a way of life for the chefs who customize each dish right in front of guests. All meals, including burritos, salads and quesadillas, come with free chips and salsa. While Moe’s is best known for burritos packed with a choice of over 20 ingredients, the kitchen also turns out vegetarian, gluten-free and lowcalorie options, as well as a children’s menu. Moe’s Monday special includes a burrito, chips, salsa and a soft drink for only $5. Moe’s is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m; Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. For
more information or to place an order, call 202-484-2229 or visit www.moes.com. Based in Atlanta, Moe’s Southwest Grill is a fast-casual restaurant franchise with more than 420 locations in 33 states–including several in the Washington metropolitan area-and some overseas.
We’re still here Rumors circulating regarding the demise of Mi Vecindad, the popular Cuban/Latino restaurant at 1129 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, are not true, according to proprietor Henry Mendoza. What’s more, Mi Vecindad (“my neighborhood”) and sister restaurant La Plaza, up the street at 629 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, were open–as always–for Thanksgiving and Christmas day. Mi Vecindad also serves a mean weekend brunch. The spinach and cheese omelette, served with yellow rice, refried beans and guacamole, is awesome. Open daily; call 202-546-4760.
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SOVA Wins a Brickie Congratulations to SOVA Wine and Espresso Bar, 1359 H St. NE, named top Business in Tommy Wells’ Fifth annual Liveable Walkable Awards, also known as the Brickies. The Ward 6 Council member presented the citations December 8 at his annual holiday party, held at the beautifully renovated Hill Center. Since 2007, SOVA proprietor Frank Hankins has made his enterprise a neighborhood gathering place–easily reached by foot--with weekly bluegrass nights, meeting rooms and display space for local artists. Open daily; call 202-397-3080 or www. sovadc.com.
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ARTS& Dining
Drinking Resolutions for 2012 by Jon Genderson
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’m writing to let you all know that I don’t drink anymore; I don’t drink any less either. (Thank you Cliff Arquette aka. Charlie Weaver). I am however, making some New Year’s resolutions that involve drinking.
Resolution Number One: I plan to drink better wine in 2012. This resolution gets easier to keep every year. I still taste plenty of sub-par wines but the general quality of wine continues to get better each year. Despite industry consolidations where small growers sell to large producers, there are still lots of individuals who get the bug to make fine wine and are producing excellent wines at reasonable prices.
Resolution Number Two: I plan to put more wine in my cellar. I cannot count the number of times I’m asked for a soft and mature wine. At Schneider’s we have a huge selection of aged wines sourced from producers and private cellars but these wines are rarely under $40 a bottle. There are a great many wines in the $15 to $30 range that will improve substantially with a year or two in the cellar. Putting these wines down for short term cellaring will allow me to drink much better wine every day.
Resolution Number Three: I plan to drink the wine in my cellar. If you are cellaring wine, I’m sure there are one or two special bottles that you cherish but just don’t ever open. If you wait too long, the wine will not be special at all. You put it there to drink so drink it already! A Saturday night at home with a couple of filets from the Eastern Market is reason enough to open that special bottle. I get together with a group of friends every other month or so at a restaurant to enjoy great wine and great food. The rule for what wine to bring is simple. Always bring the best wine in your cellar. We check each other’s cellars often to make sure no one is cheating.
Resolution Number Four: I plan to drink more Burgundy. I find that after collecting and drinking wine 104 ★ HillRag | January 2012
for many years that my favorite seems to always be Burgundy. Sure I still love Rhône and Bordeaux but for elegance, finesse and power in the same glass, I prefer Burgundy. The shift that occurred a few years ago away from Australian wine to the now much more popular areas of Spain and Argentina show that consumers are looking for more structure and elegance in their reds. These wine drinkers will eventually end up wanting to drink Burgundy.
Resolution Number Five: I plan to drink more Champagne. It seems I say this every year but we drink a lot of Champagne around the holidays and then stop for ten months. I enjoy a glass as an apéritif so why not enjoy it all year? French Champagne moved up in price this year but with the renewed strength of the dollar there will be plenty of Champagne deals in January. There are also a host of great sparkling wines coming from Spain, Italy and America that sell for under $20.
Resolution Number Six: I plan to drink more Bourbon. Bourbon sales did not exceed Scotch sales this season but it sure seemed like it. The most requested item that was not available was Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon. I assume it’s because many folks are calling around to find it and no one has any but we were getting several requests an hour. There are a host of excellent new Bourbon labels on the market and most are really worth trying. Our biggest sellers in December were the single barrel selections from Elmer T. Lee, Four Roses and Jefferson.
Resolution Number Seven: I plan to drink more clear spirits. I began drinking Grappa in earnest on a trip to Italy in 2005. After daily excessive eating and drinking I found this smooth distillate of must (what is left over during the winemaking process) a wonderful digestive. There are certainly some fiery Grappa’s on the market but the best are amazingly smooth and balanced. My current
favorite is the Jacapo Poli Morbido or “smooth” Grappa ($70). Tequila has been seeing resurgence of late with the high end Blanco’s being the most popular. This extremely flavorful distillate of the Blue Agave cactus also makes a wonderful digestive and can be a fun but dangerous way to start an evening.
Resolution Number Eight: I plan to exercise more. What? You think I can drink this much and not do something to counteract all the extra calories? Morning exercise is a must if you drink a healthy amount of alcohol the night before. It increases your metabolism to burn off excess acetaldehyde (the byproduct produced by your liver as it breaks down alcohol) and increases your endorphins to make you feel better. Burning those extra calories is also important.
Wine of the Month Cueto Rioja 2009 (On Sale for $8) This incredible bargain from Rioja is the perfect cure for the low budget winter blues. The nose shows dried cherry, wood and earth and leads to full flavors of black cherry, toasted oak and dried black fruit. Good body and concentration make this perfect for chicken, beef and lamb as well as sipping in front of a fire. Buy this one by the trunkful! Jon Genderson is co-owner of Schneider’s of Capitol Hill, the finest wine and spirits shop in the city. ★
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ARTS& Dining
ATTHE MOVIES
‘Tis the Season to See Holly(wood) The Movie Awards Season Heats Up by Mike Canning
T
hat slighty silly movie awards season is upon us. A batch of different critics’ groups, the guilds of directors and actors and screenwriters, The Independent Spirit folks, the Golden Globers and myriad other outfits all churn out their “best of ” lists, culminating in the Academy Awards (FYI: nominees to be announced on January 24, 2012, with the Big Show to follow February 26th). Not to be too parochial, but the DC-based Washington Area Film Critics’ Association (WAFCA) was, in fact, the first off the dime with the naming of its “Best of 2011” on December 5, 2011 (more on their choices below). This column highlights two standout films of this past year, now in theaters, which will surely garner attention throughout this award-granting season.
boarding school, is drifting. Thrown into the mix is the revelation, which he learns from Alexandra, that his wife has been having an affair with a real estate guy, and the pressure is on Matt to balance his role as a father—too often neglected-with his desire for revenge. Plus, he remains the final arbiter on whether the family property will go to a major developer or stay pristine. Through this thicket of demands, Matt must find out what he really values.
Payne’s script avoids the pitfalls of so many American movies. For example, the two sisters at first appear facile stereotypes of “difficult” kids but, over time, they develop distinctive, idiosyncratic personalities and play off Clooney beautifully. Also, he gives Alexandra’s boy friend Sid (Nick Krause), an apparent dim-bulb, real dimension as he trails along with the family. But Clooney carries the load here. He is in almost every scene and pulls off the befuddled husband and
The Descendants Alexander Payne has been an Oscar nominee (for the script of “Election”) and an Oscar winner (for the script of “Sideways”), and he is almost a sure bet to hit the trifecta with his latest, “The Descendants,” another half-trenchant, half-wistful comedy-drama from a master of the form (The film is rated “R” and runs 115 minutes). George Clooney plays a typically muddled Payne hero, a Honolulu law- Shailene Woodley and George Clooney in “The Descendants.” Photo by Merie Wallace yer named Matt King who is at sea: his wife is in a coma after a water-skiThe above plot summary might father exquisitely. As cool as he has ing accident, a grand family property sound mundane, but it is on just such long been, here is a father of a certain in unspoiled Hawaii--of which he is basic human material that Payne age who is intent on doing the right trustee—is about to sell, and his two works his magic. You shouldn’t expect thing. Clooney, under Payne’s guiddaughters, Scottie, an unruly 10-yearexplosive drama or copious sentiment ance, makes you believe the logic of old, and Alexandra, a surly 17-yearfrom Alexander Payne: he gives you what Matt does because you’ve come old, are giving him fits. It appears like instead smart, revealing character to know him so well. Though not a the wife will not recover. The land sale studies and believable, nuanced emo- “showy” performance, it is a splendid could make him and a passel of relations. And he adds humor, a humor one, one that will earn him Oscar contives very rich. Scottie (Amara Miler) never forced but organic to the situa- sideration. is acting out at her school, and AlPerhaps more than any other tion and the characters. exandra (Shailene Woodley), at a ritzy 106 ★ HillRag | January 2012
current director of American comedy, Payne –from his “Citizen Ruth” through “Election” to “Sideways”— and now “The Descendants, ” offers perceptive, sweet-and-sour examinations of the contemporary soul. Take the bet: he will be nominated both for Best Director and for Best Adapted Screenplay.
The Artist Talk about coming out of left field (and I don’t mean “Moneyball,” another fine film of 2011): a “French” film with a Gallic writer/director and two French leads assaying a look at the Ghost of Hollywood Past and filming it in the movie capital itself. Then the final kicker: it’s a silent movie! Who could come up with such an unlikely premise? Well, it’s director Michel Hazanavicius, who somehow convinced somebody to bankroll this magnificent whimsy of a film, using two French players, Jean Dujardin and Bérénice Bejo, who play silent film actors. The rest of the cast includes Hollywood veterans like John Goodman, James Cromwell, Penelope Ann Miller and a batch of other American actors. Hazanavicius, who had made three previous features in France, tells a movie fantasy that is an exhilarating cocktail of “Singin’ in the Rain” and “A Star Is Born”: It’s 1927 and George Valentin, a flamboyant star of silent pictures specializing in Douglas Fairbanks roles (in fact, Dujardin looks strikingly like Fairbanks, down to the pencil moustache), meets cute with a fan, Peppy Miller, whom he casts as an extra in one of his dashing romances. Peppy is picked up by his studio just as it shifts its production into sound pictures, and while her star rises ever higher, he doggedly sticks to silents, which ultimately kills his career. His
precipitate demise is tracked by Peppy who tries to revive his movie life—and does so. Did I say this was a silent movie? It essentially is, though it sports a lush music track (by Ludovic Bource), and sound breaks through just twice—in ways I will not divulge but which are both brilliantly handled. Real movie fans will delight in picking out the sprinkling of cinematic homages that “The Artist” offers, like the soundtrack’s moving nod to composer Bernard Herrmann and a dinner table montage that rings changes on “Citizen Kane.” For real buffs, there is even a nifty quote from the 1927 silent classic “Seventh Heaven.” The film is so buoyant, so lively, and filmed so richly that the film-
WAFCA Awards Since this column is tied to awards season, it feels right to cite the Washington Area Film Critics Association’s picks for the “Best of...” the year. WAFCA (this writer is a member) contains a bunch of movie buffs, so perhaps it isn’t too much of a surprise that they stuck close to the movie business itself for several honorees. “The Artist,” that paean to moviedom described above, won for Best Picture, and it was also singled out for its music score. Martin Scorsese was named best director for “Hugo,” another film that celebrates cinema and its early history, while Michelle Williams won Best Actress for her portrayal of Marilyn Monroe in “My Week with Marilyn,” which essen-
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Jean Dujardin and Bérénice Bejo in “The Artist.” Photo by The Weinstein Company
goer doesn’t even think about its “silence.” Also, it is decidedly not in the herky-jerky mode that so many people think was how silents were made. They were never herky-jerky, of course, they were just shot at a slower frames-per-second speed, and “The Artist” acknowledges that with its silky smooth rhythms (which also enhances a movie that has some nifty dancing). This is unlike any other picture you will see this year, or perhaps have seen in the last ten. In fact, “The Artist” here is M. Hazanavicius who should see his singular creation honored with at least some statuettes. (The film is rated “PG13” and runs a crisp 100 min.)
tially takes place on a movie set. Among other winners were George Clooney for his role in “The Descendants,” Octavia Spencer for her supporting role as a 1960s Mississippi maid in “The Help” and comedian Albert Brooks in a performance as a killer in “Drive.” The raucous farce, “Bridesmaids,” won for Best Acting Ensemble. The group’s selection for Best Animated Feature was “Rango” and the Best Foreign Language film was Spaniard Pedro Almodovar’s latest “The Skin I Live In.” Long-time Hill resident Mike Canning has written on movies for the Hill Rag since 1993 and is a member of the Washington Area Film Critics Association. His reviews and writings on film can be found online at www.mikesflix. com. ★
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the
LITERARY HILL
A Compendium of Readers, Writers, Books, & Events
A New Spin on Civil Rights Those jaunty tunes spilling from the carousel in front of the Smithsonian’s Arts and Industries Building provide a familiar soundtrack to any trip to the National Mall. You’ve probably taken your kids or grandkids for a ride – or maybe you’ve mounted one of the colorful painted horses yourself. But you probably didn’t know that the merry-go-round played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement. Author Amy Nathan hangs a tale of hard-won justice on the amusement park ride in her new book for young
A new book for young readers reveals a link between the National Mall merry-goround and the civil rights movement.
adults, “Round & Round Together: Taking a Merry-Go-Round Ride into the Civil Rights Movement.” The carousel had its beginnings at Gwynn Oak, a so-called Trolley Park on the streetcar line just outside Baltimore. From its inception in 1894, the privately-owned park was designated whites-only and by 1947, when the new carousel was installed, nothing had changed. In 1955, following the previous year’s Supreme Court school desegregation ruling, CORE (Congress of Racial Equality) began organizing protests outside the park. Picketers targeted the ironically named All Nations’ Day, which celebrated cultures of countries from around the (white) world, by carrying signs saying “WE’RE AMERICANS ALL” 108 ★ HillRag | January 2012
and WHY ARE NEGROES NOT PERMITTED TO ATTEND ALL NATIONS DAY?” The owner, who was president of the Baltimore City Council, would not budge, fearing that a racist white backlash would eat into the park’s profits. It took eight more years of persuasion and demonstrations until things finally came to a head in 1963. On the Fourth of July, a group of demonstrators, with prominent local civil rights leaders and clergymen in the lead, endured the rocks and taunts of segregationists to try to gain access to the park. At the end of the day, 283 protestors had been arrested. The park’s owners continued to cling to their whites-only policy, but it was clear that the tide was turning. Media coverage of a second demonstration on July 7 showing bloodied protestors fueled public support and added to the pressure. Finally, in an agreement brokered by then Baltimore County chief executive Spiro Agnew, the owners agreed to open Gwynn Oaks to blacks starting on August 28. On that day, 11-month-old Sharon Langley, in her little pink dress, took a history-making ride on the carousel between two white youngsters. “It’s a scene that would have brought a smile to the face of a man who was busy that day making history himself about an hour’s drive away in Washington, DC,” writes Nathan. “This was the day that the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his famous ‘I Have a Dream’ speech in front of thousands of people gathered near the National Mall for the March on Washington.” Gwynn Oaks subsequently fell on hard times, a victim of changing tastes, car-owning visitors who no longer had to depend on the trolley line, and competition from big theme parks. Hurricane Agnes dealt the final blow in 1972, destroying much of the park. The carousel, however, survived and was moved to the National Mall in 1981 where, as Nathan writes, “The merry-go-round provides an example
by Karen Lyon of [Dr. King’s] dream brought to life, as big kids, little kids, young kids, old kids – kids of all races and religions – circle round and round, up and down, having fun together.” “Round & Round Together” is a richly researched account of the civil rights movement, enhanced by quotes and vignettes from the more than two dozen interviews that Nathan conducted with the people who lived it. The book also provides ‘where-arethey-now’ follow-ups on the central players, a time line, lots of period photographs and an extensive bibliography. It offers an engaging way to educate young readers (and older ones, too) about life under segregation and the sacrifices made by those who fought for change. The book is dedicated “To all who had the courage to stand up and speak out.” Amy Nathan, who grew up in Baltimore, is the award-winning author of several nonfiction books for young readers. For more, visit www. amynathanbooks.com.
Yogi Tells All You might say that Kelly Moore stumbled into yoga. She was jogging in Bosnia in the mid-90s, where she was working for the United Nations, when she suffered a hip injury. Yoga seemed to help, although little could assuage the anxiety of living in a war zone, where she routinely confronted men with guns, traveled alone to the scenes of active military operations and told the world about hidden mass graves. When her fears followed her home to DC, she turned to yoga for a different kind of healing. Eventually, “a yoga practice begun as therapy for a running injury became the source of personal and professional transformation.” “Secrets of an Accidental Yogi: Yoga Wisdom for Better Health, Less Stress & Great Sex” is the result of her journey. With humor and panache, Moore discusses the ten most important yogic principles, challenges some common myths (eating tofu is not required), and guides readers to-
Local writer and yoga teacher Kelly Moore shares tips, stories, and nuggets of wisdom to help readers finder their inner yogis.
ward finding the practice that’s right for them. Moore is an expert in international security and public policy and, in addition to her work for the U.N., served as Sen. Joe Lieberman’s Senate press secretary during his first vice presidential run and was a member of the 9/11 Commission. She has written for The New York Times and the Huffington Post, among others, and has also blogged about sports for the Bleacher Report. She currently teaches yoga in DC and New York. “Secrets of an Accidental Yogi” is available in various electronic formats. For more, visit Moore’s blog at www. WhatTheKel.com.
Dreaming in Circles Mark Batterson is a man on a mission. He is the pastor of the National Community Church, which now boasts seven locations in the area, including two on Capitol Hill. “The vision of NCC,” he writes, “is to meet in movie theaters at metro stops throughout the DC area.” The church’s latest acquisition is the historic building on Barracks Row formerly known as The Peoples Church at 535 8th St. SE. The church also owns and operates Ebenezer’s coffeehouse at 201 F St. NE near Union Station.
COME JOIN US FOR LUNCH The busy pastor is also a writer. In his new book, “The Circle Maker: Praying Circles Around Your Biggest Dreams and Greatest Fears,” Batterson shares stories about prayers being answered, “including miraculous church real estate deals, unthinkable business opportunities, dream jobs, surprising generosity and longawaited spouses.”
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Pastor Mark Batterson encourages readers to dream big, pray hard and think long in “The Circle Maker.”
Based on the example of Honi, a first-century Jew who altered history and saved a generation by refusing to leave a prayer circle he drew around himself, Batterson encourages readers to “dream big, pray hard and think long” -- and to join him in drawing prayer circles. “God is still looking for circle makers,” he writes. “And the timeless truth secreted within this ancient legend is as true now as it was then: bold prayers honor God and God honors bold prayers.” While asserting that God is not offended by big dreams, Batterson nonetheless reminds readers that there are limits. “Drawing prayer circles starts with discerning what God wants,” he writes; there is a “Biblical framework dictating which prayers God will answer.” For more, visit www.theaterchurch.com. ★
Sandy Irvin: 202-544-5680 Phone: 202-544-5680 • Fax: 202-544-9630 Email: tunnicliffs@gmail.com
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Success starts
Enroll your 3 or 4 year old at AppleTree Early Learning Public Charter School & prepare your child for success in school! (Free to DC residents!)
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AppleTree’s evidence-based program helps children develop the strong academic and social skills needed to succeed in kindergarten and beyond. AppleTree campuses offer: Lincoln Park 138 12th Street NE 202.621.6581
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We are hosting Open Houses on the following dates: January 27, 2012, 11am-12pm February 16, 2012, 4pm-5pm March 6, 2012, 9am-10am March 22, 2012, 2pm-3pm
April 17, 2012, 9:30am-10:30am May 3, 2012, 4pm-5pm May 31, 2012, 11am-12pm June 12, 2012, 5pm-6pm
Southwest - Riverside 680 I Street SW 202.646.0500
RSVP for an open house by calling a campus or applying online at: AppleTree Early Learning Public Charter School prohibits discrimination on the basis of a student’s race, color, religion, national origin, language spoken, intellectual or athletic ability, measures of achievement or aptitude, or status as a student with special needs.
www.AppleTreePCS.org/Enroll If required, a public lottery will be held on Thursday April 7, 2011 at all campuses.
Apply Today- Now enrolling for the 2012-2013 school year.
Washington Mathematics Science Technology Public Charter High School Free To Excel! Small Classes / Individualized Instruction / AP & Honors Courses SAT Preparation / National Honor Society / Air Force JROTC MOS Certification Center School Highlights: •
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Visit Our Website at www.wmstpchs.org WMST is located at: 1920 Bladensburg Road, NW Washington, DC 20002 Phone: (202) 636-8011 Fax: (202) 636-3495 110 ★ HillRag | January 2012
kids&family NOTEBOOK by Kathleen Donner
Artlab participants deep into a project. Photo: Courtesy of the Hirshhorn Gallery of Art
Teen ARTLAB+ at the Hirshhorn The ArtLab is an awesome “classroom of the future” space located in the Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden. Renovations during summer 2011 turned it into a fully-equipped digital learning lab, with a sound booth that gives teens access to professional sound production hardware and software, such as keyboards, mixers, microphones, Reason and Logic, a gaming area featuring a carefully curated selection of games from hard-to-find indie art games to more mainstream games, and all of the technology necessary to pursue video, photography, and animation projects, from MacBook and iMac computers to professional digital and video cameras. With all of these resources, the ArtLab is now part of the YOUmedia Network, a nationwide group of out-of-school digital learning centers conceived and funded in part by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation and the Pearson Foundation. ARTLAB+ programs include advance registration workshops and club meetings that unite teens who share common interests in gaming, radio broadcasting, photography, or music. And best of all--teens can simply drop in and explore, hang out, work with mentors on digital projects, etc. during their open hours: Mon.-Fri., 3:00-7:00 p.m. and Sat., noon-5:00 p.m. All for free! All participants must be 13 years or older to register. Contact kassingera@si.edu if you have any questions. artlabplus.si.edu
Boggie Babes at the Atlas Boogie Babes was created by two moms, Amanda Clarke and Kara Morrissey when they decided they didn’t want to drive super far for quality kid’s music. In the Spring of 2008, they got in touch with some local children’s musicians, a local coffee shop, and Boogie
Babes was born! They have had almost weekly shows on Capitol Hill ever since then! Amanda and Kara live on Capitol Hill and are both moms to three adorable kids under 5--two boys and a girl each. Boggie Babes is on Fridays at 10:30 a.m. and costs $5 per child (siblings under 6 months free!). Tickets available
online at atlasarts.org or 202-399-7993. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE.
C3 Cyber Club at Hill Center With our technology driven world it’s important to prepare our children for their future. In 3D Lego Design capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 111
they take the fun concept of traditional Lego’s and combine it with the digital world of 3D modeling. Students will interact with real life Lego’s then recreate them digitally in the computer. They will learn to create 3D characters, environments, props, vehicles and more. Students will explore the concepts of 3D modeling. Children (K-2nd grade) will learn and use basic computer skills, perspective, 3D modeling techniques, simple mathematics and problem solving skills. $149. Jan. 9-Feb. 13. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org
MLK Storytime at Northeast Library MLK related stories told for ages 3-7 on Jan. 9, 4:00 p.m. Northeast Library, 330 Seventh St. NE. 202-698-3320. dclibrary. org/northeast
“Arcadia” Know the Show Workshops at St. Marks On Sunday, Jan. 15, 3:00-8:00 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 21, noon3;00 p.m. St. Mark’s Players offers workshops for youth ages 9-15 to help them understand “Arcadia” by Tom Stoppard. $60. “Arcadia” will be performed on Jan. 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 27 and 28; Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 4:00 p.m. St. Marks, 301 A St. SE. 202-546-9670. stmarksplayers.org
CHAW Registering for Spring 2012 After School Youth Arts Program
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CHAW is now registering students in kindergarten through sixth grade for its popular after school Youth Arts Program. Classes include Ceramics, Guitar, Movie Making, Musical Theater, Sculpture, Drawing, Watercolor, Tap, Art History, the Capitol Hill Youth Choir, and more. New classes include Street Art, Engineering, Zumbatomics, and more. CHAW also presents “Ask Leslie” featuring Youth Education Coordinator Leslie Mansour. Leslie provides free guidance in determining appropriate classes for each child. Contact
CAPITOL HILL CLUSTER SCHOOL
Where Every Child Achieves!
OPEN HOUSES ON ALL 3 CAMPUSES Tuesday, January 31st
Thursday, February 2nd
9am - 10:30am at Peabody Early Childhood Center & School-Within-School
5pm - 6:30pm at Peabody Early Childhood Center & School-Within-School
9am - 10:30am at Watkins Elementary School
6pm - 7:30pm at Watkins Elementary School
10am - 11:30am at Stuart-Hobson Middle School
7pm - 8:30pm at Stuart-Hobson Middle School
Peabody Early Childhood Center & School-Within-School 425 C St NE • 202.698.3277
Watkins Elementary 420 12th St SE • 202.698.3355
Stuart-Hobson Middle School 410 E Street NE • 202.671.6010
www.capitolhillclusterschool.org
Accepting applications for 2012-13 year, grades PS-6 Download your application at www.ewstokes.org
With a French and Spanish immersion program and a dual focus on academic excellence and community service, Stokes School prepares culturally diverse elementary school students to be leaders, scholars, and responsible citizens who are committed to social justice.
Upcoming Open House January 26, 2012 from 9:30am – 11:00am RSVP to Ms. Jo-Anne Hurlston, Parent Coordinator, jo-anneh@ewstokes.org
Visit us at www.ewstokes.org 3700 Oakview Terrace, NE | Washington, DC 20017 | 202.265.7237 capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 113
kidsfamily shop. This workshop works for passionate young writers and for students looking for inspiration and technique to get their creative writing juices flowing. Jan. 29-Mar. 11, 1:00-3:30 p.m. Tuition is $270. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org
School Transit Subsidy Application
Rocknoceros
Rocknoceros at Ebenezers Rocknoceros (pronounced like rhinoceros) has dominated the Washington, DC children’s music scene since its inception in 2005, winning four Washington Area Music Awards, and landing an ongoing Video-on-Demand offering through COX Cable. Rocknoceros performs more than 20 shows each month, independently produce a bi-weekly video podcast series, and they have just completed their second animated music video for the PINK! CD. They have sold 10,000 CDs, with their first two CDs each winning Best Children’s Recording from the Washington Area Music Association. Join them for this fun family show! $10 for everyone one year and older. Saturday, Jan. 7, 10:30-11:30 a.m. at Ebenezers Coffeehouse, 201 F St. NE. 202-558-6900. ebenezerscoffeehouse.com her at 202-547-6839 or landrus@chaw. org to set up a phone or in-person appointment. CHAW also offers Private Music Instruction in a variety of instruments for students of all ages. For a complete list of workshops, classes or registration information, visit chaw.org or call 202-547-6839.
Spanish on the Hill at Hill Center Jan.through June, Spanish on the Hill will offer weekly Spanish classes for children 3-10. The classes will be separated by age and level. Their goal is for participants to become comfortable with conversational Spanish in addition to effectively communicating in Spanish with others. Each class introduces Spanish using the immersion method; a fun and exciting way to learn Spanish using games, songs, books, and interactive lessons. $500 for series. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org
Teen Nights at Northeast Library Movie night is every second Wednesday, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Game night (electronic and board) is every third Wednesday, 5:30-7:30 p.m. 114 ★ HillRag | January 2012
The Northeast Library Teen Advisory Group (ages 12-18), meets every first Wednesday, 5:15-6:15 p.m. The Teen Advisory Group advises on library policy and materials from a young persons point of view. It welcomes all new members. Just walk in. Northeast Library, 330 Seventh St. NE. 202-6983320. dclibrary.org/northeast
Children’s March for Dr. King On Sunday, Jan. 15 and Monday, Jan. 16, at 2:00 p.m. meet at the Lincoln Memorial (ask a Park Ranger for exact location) for a family march with National Park Service interpretative talk.to the MLK Memorial. The march lasts about 45 minutes. nps.gov
Teen Creative Writing at Hill Center This workshop, for writers who want to improve their poetry, fiction or nonfiction, consists of fun and engaging interactive exercises. Participants will discuss writing basics and will work individually with the instructor and in workshop readings to improve their approach to writing. Participants will have the opportunity to read their work to the class during our last work-
Students and parents may begin applying online for the school transit subsidy program at dconecard.dc.gov/ manage. Students and parents are advised not to wait until school resumes after the holidays to apply for the transit subsidy program as this may cause a delay in receiving the benefits. Beginning Jan. 1, eligible students at all DCPS high schools and middle schools will need a DC One Card to access transit subsidy passes. The school transit subsidy program provides reduced fares for District students who use Metrobus, Metrorail or the DC Circulator to travel to and from school. Additional information about obtaining the DC One Card can be found by visiting dconecard.dc.gov or by calling 202-671-2273.
Happy Feet 2 IMAX Opens at Natural History Museum Mumble the tap dancing penguin is back in this family-friendly sequel to the 2006 Academy Award winning animated feature. Mumble’s son Erik does not share the family passion for dance. When Erik meets The Mightly Sven--a penguin who can fly--Mumble realizes that he has no chance of competing with his son’s charismatic new role model. Things get worse for Mumble when the world is shaken by powerful forces. Ity’s up to him to assemble the epnguin nations and other species to put things right. (104 minutes). Happy Feet 2 opened in Dec. at the Natural History Museum. $15. Samuel C. Johnson IMAX Theater, National Museum of Natural History, 10th St. and Constitution Ave. NW. si.edu/imax
DC Charter School Expo: Choose Your School! The Third Annual DC Public
Charter School Recruitment Expo set for Saturday, Jan. 7, noon-4:00 p.m., at the Washington Convention Center will bring together the local charter school community, parents, prospective teachers, community members and vendors. This event offers parents and teachers a one-stop opportunity to meet with school leaders to learn about the 53 DC charter schools in the city ahead of the enrollment period for the 2012-2013 school year. Teachers and others can also seek job opportunities available in charter schools. There will be giveaways for attendees and activities for children at the Expo. 202-3282660. dccharterexpo.org
Collection Connections Drop-in Workshop At Postal Museum On Jan. 7, noon-3:00 p.m., make a topical stamp collection to take home in this fun, all-ages workshop. Don’t miss the tour of Collecting History: 125 Years of the National Philatelic Collection led by curator Daniel Piazza at 2:00 p.m. postalmuseum.si.edu
National Wildlife Federation’s Kids Magazines Go Digital For over 40 years, National Wildlife Federation’s Ranger Rick magazine has entertained and educated generations of children about the wonders of wildlife. Now Ranger Rick, and NWF’s other children’s magazines (Big Backyard and Wild Animal Baby) are going digital so they can be available to kids on their Nook by Barnes & Noble. The magazines will continue to be advertising-free, and each one comes with a 14-day free trial. Single issues are available for $3.50–$3.95, with annual subscriptions costing $15 for 10 issues.” These are the same prices as the paper version of the magazines, which continue to be available for those who want that hands-on experience. nwf. org/nookforkids
DCJCC Registration Open for Infants, Toddlers and Preschooler Classes Registration is now open for our winter and spring classes for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers (and their caregivers) at the Washington DCJCC, 16th and Q sts. NW. Some of their
Big Bird at the Air and Space Planetarium. Photo: Courtesy of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure follows Sesame Street’s Big Bird and Elmo as they explore the night sky with Hu Hu Zhu, a Muppet from Zhima Jie, the Chinese co-production of Sesame Street. Show is every Friday at 10:30 a.m. and the first consecutive Saturday and Sunday of each month, also at 10:30 a.m. Free. Tickets available at Planetarium box office. Tickets may be ordered by phone at 202-633-4629, however $2 per ticket fee applies for phone orders. National Air and Space Museum Planetarium. airandspace.si.edu more popular classes have already sold out, but they still have lots of great options including Sunday gymnastics for 3-4 year olds, Creative Movement for 2-4 year olds, music classes for all ages (including newborns!), Spanish for 18 months and older, and Itsy Bitsy Yoga for Babies for newborns through almost crawling. Check out their classes and register at washingtondcjcc.org/kids-and-parents
ING KiDS ROCK DC Marathon Participation On Friday evening, Mar. 16, kids can be part of Rock ‘n’ Roll USA Marathon weekend excitement by participating in ING KiDS ROCK D.C. at RFK Satdium. ING KiDS ROCK, is a non-timed, non-competitive event for children in grades K-7. Kids can become marathon finishers on race day by completing a cumulative marathon training program in the weeks leading up to the race. Or, they can simply choose to run the 1-mile course on race day. Through Mar. 15, the fee is $15. There is no registration on race day. Kids can also run with their friends. School/Team registration for Team Captains is now open. There is no fee to be a team, however you
need a minimum of 10 registered participants by sell out to be considered an official team. Read more at ingkidsrock.competitor.com or call 800-311-1255.
Announcing BASIS DC STARS Program BASIS DC will offer scholarships through their STARS program for under-served and at-risk students interested in growing their foundational knowledge. The program will provide Washington, DC students with focused and intensive extra help after school and will run from Feb.June. Students who enroll will get at least three hours of academic exploration each week, and the program will culminate in a celebratory project week, where students present what they’ve learned to the BASIS DC STARS community. BASIS schools are open enrollment schools which do not require entrance examinations and do not charge tuition. Any student can attend if there is space available; a registration lottery determines admission if there are more students interested than the school can accommodate. For more information go to basisdc.org or email mary.siddall@basiseducation.net. ★ capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 115
kids&family
School Notes Compiled by Susan Braun Johnson
River Park Nursery School Enjoys the Holidays River Park Nursery School is looking forward to an exciting 2012. Come visit our Open House on January 19th from 4-7 p.m. and see why families return year after year. Applications are due February 29th. For more information, please email Jeni Freed at jenifreed@gmail.com or online: www.riverparknurseryschool. org. The school is located at 212 E. Capitol St, NE. 202 546-7767.
several weeks, students designed and built a 5’x5.5’x32” structure in their classroom, intentionally unnamed to allow for its use as a castle, stadium, zoo, aquarium, or train tracks!
Fiddler on the Roof-Jan 27 Meanwhile, music fills the hallways . . . sixth-graders are rehearsing “Fiddler on the Roof,” which they will perform at Christ Church on January 27. After School Music Program musicians are preparing for recitals in February, showcasing the CHDS Jazz Band, and individual performances on piano, keyboard, guitar, drums, violin, viola, saxophone, and trumpet.
Stars & Stripes Auction Feb 24 Finally, dedicated CHDS parent volunteers are putting the finishing touches on the Jingle Bell Elves at the River Park December Holiday Program. February 24 Stars and Stripes Auction. For this joyous community event, the Washington Navy Yard Conference Center New Building to Open February will be transformed to reflect AmerCapitol Hill Day School returns ica’s multicultural heritage. We are to our renovated Dent building in so grateful to the many merchants, February! They will celebrate with an parents, faculty, and students for their ultimate Back to School Night party generous and varied donations. For and move-in parade. The parade is a a preview, go to www.chdsauction. tradition established in 1980 when org. Proceeds support Capitol Hill students symbolically carried small Day School’s diverse community, initems between their two foundtegrated curriculum, and unparalleled ing churches to their current school field education program. home in the Dent building. -Jane Angarola. CHDS, 210 Inspired by the renovation, PreK/ South Carolina Ave, SE. 202-386Kindergarten students studied ba9919; www.chds.org. sic construction concepts used in designing and building. At a nearby construction site, a contractor showed the children architectural blueprints St. Peter Auction At Nats Park and tools, and described the excavation for the foundation and the ini- – Game On! Mark your calendars for an excittial framing for the building. Over
Capitol Hill Day School News
News from St. Peter School
116 ★ HillRag | January 2012
Kindergartners at S. Peter School Christmas Concert [Credit: Megan Wurm]
ing, unique, home run of an evening! The St. Peter School annual auction will be held at the PNC Diamond Club overlooking the Washington Nationals ball field on Saturday, February 11, 2012. This year’s auction is promising to be the best party ever, with fabulous items and many new surprises in store! Join the school community to share a great time and extraordinary access to Nationals Park, including the players’ own batting cages where you can take a swing or two (or more!) against actual pitchers. Tickets are $75 - for more information, send a message to spsauction2012@yahoo.com. See you at the ball park!
Christmas Concert A Blessed Tradition! Each year, the St. Peter School community gathers for a school wide evening Christmas concert at St. Peter’s Church. This year, students dressed in their Christmas finery, filed into the packed church and sang Christmas carols for friends and family. A highlight of the evening is welcoming the youngest Pre-K students to this annual tradition and bidding
a fond farewell to the eighth grade students who will be graduating in the spring.
Hands-on Science Labs Students at St. Peter School are embracing science through handson learning with FOSS science kits. Grades three- eight spend science class conducting experiments designed to broaden their understanding of key scientific principles, from building instruments to measure water, to creating solutions with citric acid, to building steam tables. School parents Paola Barbara and Chris Lobb, both of whom are university physics professors, recently supplemented the seventh grade science experience as guest lecturers. Drs. Barbara and Lobb brought equipment to the lab that allowed students to view distance graphs on the Smartboard and move their bodies in front of motion detectors to match up with what they were seeing. The students applied their knowledge of speed and distance to move their bodies in a manner that would create a similar, in some cases almost exact, computer graph.
Winter Open House St. Peter School Winter Open House will be held January 12 from 9- 11 a.m. Applications will be available, and prospective families are invited to tour the school and meet with faculty and parents. - Sally Aman . St. Peter School, 422 Third St, SE. 202-544-1618, www.stpeterschooldc.org.
Payne Elementary News First Annual International Day In November, Payne Elementary School students participated in their first annual International Day. On that morning, classes rotated through three international experiences taught by community members and international artists. These experiences included: Yoga from India, Capeoria and Samba from Brazil, Chinese calligraphy and storytelling, African drumming and mask making, and meeting returned Peace Corp volunteers from all over the world. Each session was informative as well as hands-on and interactive. The day concluded with students reflecting on the experiences they had in writing and orally. As a World Cultures Catalyst school, at Payne we continue to bring the world to our students. If you have a talent or skill that you would like to share with the students at Payne please contact Kyle Evans at kyle.evans@dc.gov.
Decorating National Airport Christmas Tree On December 1st, the Green Team of Payne ES travelled to Rea-
gan National Airport to decorate one of the airport’s Christmas trees! The Green Team is made up of students concerned about the environment, who promote conservation and recycling in our school. They used materials that were recycled, including toilet paper rolls, newspaper, old Christmas cards and sixpack plastic rings, to create garland and ornaments for the tree. The students couldn’t be more excited that Payne’s tree will be seen by hundreds of thousands of national and international travelers passing through Terminal B during this busy travel season. When they return home, they might even be able to use some of the ideas to make “green” decorations of their own when they get home! Rakecia Whitaker. Payne, 1445 C St, SE, http://profiles.dcps. dc.gov/payne
Capitol Hill Cluster School 1,000,000 Minutes of Reading To instill in students a love of reading, the Cluster School this winter is challenging students at all three campuses to read for a combined total of 1,000,000 minutes. The three-month program—called Reading Takes You Out of this World!—allows students to discover the joy of reading in their spare time, helps both avid and reluctant readers find books they love, and allows all students to benefit from the academic rewards of reading. The program has a planetary theme, with student “astronauts” charting their progress across the solar system as they accumulate minutes.
Payne kids with the National Airport Christmas Tree capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 117
kidsfamily
A Watkins second-grader reads in the school library. All Cluster students are eagerly turning to books this winter, with hopes of reading for a combined million minutes by March
For students at Peabody Early Childhood Center and Watkins Elementary, every 300 minutes of reading takes them to the next planet; StuartHobson Middle Schoolers must read 450 minutes to reach the next planet. Those who reach Neptune before the program’s end on March 2, 2012 (not coincidentally, Dr. Seuss’s birthday), will race back to the sun and start over. Teachers at all three campuses are excited about the program, one of the first Cluster-wide initiatives, introduced by Principal Dawn Clemens. Librarians have been bombarded by questions: “Can I read for a million minutes?” (Well, that would take almost two years, no sleeping. Why don’t we all do it together?) “Are we really going to the planets?” (Books can take you anywhere—even out of this world!) Says Peabody librarian Sue Bloom, “During my book fair last week, I overheard two brothers—both students at Watkins Elementary—talk about the new reading incentive program. That’s what we want—to create a BUZZ about reading!!”
Cluster Receives $20,000 Science Grant Stuart-Hobson Middle Schoolers literally have an out-of-this-world opportunity to explore the effects of gravity. Thanks to a $20,000 grant 118 ★ HillRag | January 2012
from the D.C. Space Grant Consortium, administered by NASA, Stuart-Hobson is participating in the Student Spaceflight Experiments Program (SSEP), which will send a student-designed experiment into orbit on the International Space Station in late March. The selected experiment, by students Kyra Smith, Daiana James, and Jakayla Smallwood, explores whether hay bacillus breaks down human waste (represented by brown egg) in microgravity as well as in Earth’s gravity. The experiment will be “turned on” by an astronaut and then let go for 45 days. “The SSEP program will provide our students with hands-on, real-world science and technology experience,” noted Stuart-Hobson science teacher Anthonette Peña and technology teacher Richard Munz. “The experience will make this learning come alive to our students. It will reinforce the wonder of science and open new pathways for them to pursue.” - Molly Dewsnap Meinhardt. Peabody Early Childhood Campus – 425 C St NE. Watkins Elementary Campus – 420 12th St. SE. Stuart-Hobson Middle School Campus – 410 E St. NE. www.capitolhillclusterschool.org
Amidon-Bowen News Improvement Fund gets Grants Amidon-Bowen Elementary School will participate in the Office of the State Superintendent of Education School Improvement Grant (SIG) program to support its 2011-12 improvement plans. The grants authorized under section 1003(g) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA), provide funds to schools with persistently low-achievement for resources to raise student achievement. AmidonBowen, along with several other Title 1 schools, will receive $12,273.25 each. The funds, which will become available in early January 2012, will be used to purchase a series of professional development materials titled “The Responsive Classroom.” The Responsive Classroom approach is a widely used, research-backed approach to elementary education that seeks to increases academic achievement, decreases problem behaviors, improves social skills through a whole-school approach to changing the culture of the school. Changing the ways kids relate to each other to prevent bullying and other behavior problems from happening in the first place has benefits for all. The goal of the program is to establish a school-wide discipline policy that staff and parents support.
Some of the steps to this goal are: • Train staff to use consistent methods of teaching the rules and responding to misbehavior. • Establish student buy-in with 3-5 positively stated rules in each classroom and for the whole school. • Model positive teacher language and roleplaying. • Provide students with practice in the expected behaviors. • Use problem-solving strategies such as class meetings or small groups. • Use individual written assignments with students who need additional support. • Use a classroom assessment to collect data on the use of specific strategies. -Meg Brinckman. Amidon-Bowen, 401 I St, SW; 202-724-4867; www.dcps.dc.gov/DCPS/ amidon.
Ludlow-Taylor News Music in the Air At the winter recital, students of all ages showcased their musical talents for proud parents. Because we are an Arts Integration Catalyst School, the arts are woven throughout the curriculum to enrich students’ educational experience. Music, in particular, is close to our hearts. Our music teacher, Tom Pierre, won the 2011 Mayor’s Arts Award for Excellence in Teaching Performing Arts. The Capitol Hill Community Foundation recently offered generous support to his work with a grant for the school’s glee club that will allow visiting artists to accompany the student singers. In instrumental music class, students study the recorder and the drums. The school’s partnership with the Kennedy Center offers professional development for teachers and free field trips galore for students. Already this year, our six preschool and pre-k classes enjoyed an instrument petting zoo and fiddle performance. First and second graders saw The Nutcracker. Fifth graders will go to the Alvin Ailey dance troupe in February. Talent lies within as well. Our first Evening with the Artist featured pre-school and aftercare instructional aide Donaflyn Crawford, who is also an accomplished gospel singer. Together with family members and Arts Integration Coordinator Othal Thomas, he performed for parents and children. Mr. Crawford also plays the piano for the early childhood program’s weekly sing-along. Upcoming open houses: January 11 (9 to 10:30am), January 25 (6 to 7:30pm), & February 8 (9 to 10:30am). Sara McLean, Ludlow Taylor ES, 659 G St. NE.
Brent Elementary News Writing, Social Studies, Math, Museum Studies, PE, Science - in all subjects students are busy-busy- busy at Brent Museum Magnet Elementary School. Students in all grades participated in the annual Publishing Party during which parents got to read their own children’s and others’ compositions and collect autographs in their “Autograph Books.” The following week families gathered again to celebrate Math, playing Math games and learning how to use IXL, a school-supported Math practice website. The school also played host to a traveling map of Asia, provided by the National Geographic Society. The PE teacher, Mr. Mitchell, incorporated it into his classes for the week and teachers used it as part of their daily class activities, discussing the geography and culture of the area and practicing their Chinese! Brent families will head outside on January 7 for the annual Bird Count, organized by Science teacher, Mr. Mangiaracina. Families will travel with nationally recognized birders to various nearby outdoor sights. There will be hot chocolate to drink and binoculars to share! Brent’s artists are also braving the colder weather, getting started on the brand new Urban Canyon Mosaic Canyon Project. Seeking to brighten up the passageway between the Brent building and the adjacent buildings, Brent artists will use weatherproof and colorful ceramic plates and cups, screws, pipe fragments, interesting metal pieces, plastic, metal, wooden game pieces, small toys or toy parts, marbles, gems, beads, buttons, beach glass, colored plastic bottle caps, and other recycled items to create a beautiful mural. Brent musicians celebrated the holiday season with a festive concert that included students from all grades, led by Music teacher Mrs. Schmidt. Mark your calendars for the annual Spring Gala, A Taste of the Hill, scheduled for March 24
The mission of Richard Wright Public Charter School for Journalism and Media Arts is to transform students in grades 8-12 into well-versed media contributors by providing a student-centered environment that connects them to the classics and modern languages and a curriculum focused on strong writing skills and vocabulary.
Now Enrolling – 8th,9th and 10th Graders – SY 2012-2013 Apply Online • www.RichardWrightPCS.org or call 202.388.1011 For general information, admission process and online application, visit us on the web at www.RichardWrightPCS.org 100 41st Street, NE Washington, DC 20019
“Rewriting The Future One Student At A Time” · · · ·
Tuition free High School grades 8-12 for DC Residents Early High School enrollment beginning with 8th grade First Latin-Based Curriculum Model of Instruction East of the River Programming Areas: Broadcast Journalism, Print Media, Newspaper and Magazine Design, Graphic Arts, Vocal Recordings, Film Making, and Video Design
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Strong emphasis on writing and vocabulary development Laptop provided to each student for school and home usage Student-centered environment Highly Qualified administrative and instructional staff Solid blueprint to graduation Student Government Association, Clubs, and Athletics
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Located on both Blue and Orange Metro Lines Several Metro Bus Routes within one block of school All students “COLLEGE READY” Uniquely professional uniforms Community Parent College
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kidsfamily written, which were neatly laid out on each of their desks, juxtaposed with a very early writing piece. The progress made in just a few short months was amazing and wonderful to see. At the end of the party there was a small awards ceremony where students received achievement certificates for their writing and publishing. It was a lively event and the children were so proud of their work! For more information on Writer’s Workshop, visit tc.readingandwritingproject.com. - Antonia Hertzog.
LEGOs Rule!
Brent Students in front of US Capitol Building
at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church at 3rd and A Sts, SE. - E.V. Downey. Brent Museum Magnet Elementary School is located at 301 N Carolina Ave, SE. 202-698-3363.
Maury Elementary Notes Budding Authors! Maury Elementary is fortunate to be a Writer’s Workshop school. Ms. Scott’s 1st graders worked hard
to create short stories about “special moments” in their lives, and then held a Publisher’s Party to celebrate and showcase their work as authors. Family members were invited to attend the party to see what the class had accomplished, and to witness the great strides the children had all made in writing and illustrating their stories. The parents walked around the class to read and comment on with post-it notes the most recent stories the children had
Maury’s Think Tank has moved from origami into LEGOs, with students building simple machines within certain parameters. Once built, they must test and analyze construction. Problem-solving is fun!
Open Houses Be sure to visit Maury’s open houses on Jan. 10 at 9 a.m. and 6:45 p.m. Until then, happy New Year to you! - Maury Elementary, 1250 Constitution Ave., NE. 202-6983838 or mauryelementary.com. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter. -
Friendship PCS News Friendship Public Charter School is proud to announce two students have won Posse Scholarships. This year’s winners are Adrian Bowie and Benjamin Bulluck. They will attend Sewanee: The University of the South and Lafayette College respectively. The recipients will receive fouryear full-tuition scholarships from colleges that partner with the Posse Foundation. “Through hard work and determination Adrian and Benjamin have earned scholarships and set a positive example we hope all of our students will follow,” said Donald Hense, chairman of Friendship Public Charter School. “We look forward to working with the Posse Foundation to help these students not only make it to college but graduate and become tomorrow’s leaders.” Friendship’s mission is to provide a world-class education that motivates students to achieve high academic standards, enjoy learning and develop as ethical, literate, wellrounded and self-sufficient citizens who contribute actively to their communities. Friendship Public Charter, 120 Q St Northeast, Suite 200. www. friendshipschools.org.
Two Rivers PCS News Learners as Experts
Ms. Scott (center) with her first grade authors! [Credit: Elizabeth Herron] 120 ★ HillRag | January 2012
Months of hard work, exploration, and collaboration came to together this past December as Two Rivers celebrated its first Community Showcase of the 2011-2012 school year. Over two nights, students spanning from preschool to eighth grade came together to present the depth, the rigor, and the joy of their class’s unique fall learning expedition. Expeditions at Two Rivers are cross-disciplinary, hands-on explorations that place students at the heart of some of the real-world’s most compelling challenges. This year’s Winter Community Showcase displayed a kaleidoscope of different investigations. The fourth-grade took on the role of archaeologists and anthropologists by unearthing
the unsaid stories from the historic Jamestown settlement. By working to inhabit the perspectives of the Africans, Powhatans, and English settlers, the fourth graders were able to synthesize observations, through primary documents and artifacts, to construct a more accurate story of what Jamestown was like for the people who lived there. In the sixth-grade, Two Rivers students took a hard look at the economics of food production and agriculture. Dr. Nazirahk Amen from Purple Mountain Organics spoke to the students about the virtues of organic gardening and his pathway to better eating. The sixth-graders then ventured to The Baltimore Museum of Industry where they got to explore the history of industrial food production and agriculture. They then studied at Rocklands Farms in Poolesville, MD, where they learned about the techniques, science, and economics behind local sustainable food production. After investigating in a broader sense, they then turned their sharpened critical lens towards four D.C. food suppliers to measure how accessible and healthy their food products really are. The evident emphasis on big ideas, interdependence, and change was not exclusive to just the fourth and sixth-grade showcases. From the preschool’s focus on storytelling, to the second grade’s work around law, all the way to eighth grade’s inquiry into ancient civilizations, the winter showcases highlighted the richness of Two Rivers expeditions as powerful shared experiences that deepen with each successive grade. Together with a foundation of basic skills and knowledge, expeditions work to prepare students for the dynamism and constant change that is necessary in today’s rapidly changing world. – Paul Staats. Two Rivers, 1227 4th St. NE., www.tworiverspcs.org. www.facebook.com/tworiverspcs; @TwoRiversPCS.
Now Enrolling for 2011-2012 School Year Program Features: • Before Care and After School Care program. • Small classroom size and well trained staff. • Individual planning for each student. • Hands-on and project-based curriculum. Now accepting Applications for the 2012-2013 school year. Applications accepted January 1, 2012 – April 17, 2012. Applications received after April 17 will be placed on our waiting list. Applications are available at the school or on our website, www.bridgespcs.org. Current grades served preschool and pre-k. Age eligibility: • Preschool - 3 yrs. old by September 30th • Pre-k - 4 yrs. old by September 30th OPEN HOUSE / INFORMATION SESSIONS AT THE SCHOOL ON THE FOLLOWING THURSDAYS: • January 5 from 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. • February 2 from 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. • March 1 from 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. • April 12 from 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Bridges Public Charter School 1250 Taylor St. NW Washington, DC 20011
p. 202 545-0515 f. 202 545-0517 www.bridgespcs.org
Bridges Public Charter School is free and open to all DC residents. Tuition paid by non-residents.
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kidsfamily and Riverside, 401 I St, SW, 680 I St, SW; Lincoln Park Campus, 138 12th St, NE; 202-526-1503; www.AppleTreePCS.org.
Eastern High News Advisory If you take a look at any Eastern student’s schedule and you will see one course ambiguously listed as “Advisory.” Many DCPS high schools and middle schools have Advisory courses but each school structures them differently: some have them one Friday a month, other once a week. At Eastern, Advisory is a college, career and life-skills credit-bearing course that occurs every day. The course helps students design their four-year graduation plan, build collaborative relationships with other Eastern students and faculty members, and explore new things about themselves and the world around them. Eastern has full-time Advisory coordinator who generates themes and lesson plans for each Advisory session. Some themes include, Midpoint Check-in: Boost Your Study Skills for Success; Graduation Requirements: Planning Your FourYear Journey; Working Together. Supporting One Another.; The Learning Attitude; Leadership Development: Why Lead? During the week students also have one day a week where they Drop Everything and Read (DEAR) high interest books from their classroom libraries donated by Companies for Causes. One other day of the week is dedicated solely to vocabulary strengthening and PSAT preparation. Students say they enjoy Advisory because their advisor is usually someone they can trust to ask for advice in and out of Advisory, the weekly readings are articles that are relevant and help them figure out solutions to problems and also provides them relevant information about ways to stay on a track towards graduation. If you are interested in coming into to an Advisory class and guiding them through a short, interactive lesson about something you know well (resume writing skills, poetry, entrepreneurship, dance, etc.) please call us at 202-698-4500 and ask to speak with Ms. Emma Osore, Coordinator of School Affairs. -Emma Osore. Eastern Senior High, 1700 East Capitol St. NE. www. easternhighschooldc.org; Twitter: @ EasternHS; Facebook: http://www. facebook.com/easternhighschool. 122 ★ HillRag | January 2012
Friends Community School News Holiday Concert
Students “Drop Everything and Read” high interest novels during Advisory.
AppleTree Early Learning PCS News Southwest Campus Families of AppleTree’s Southwest Campuses recently enjoyed two delicious family potlucks. Students began by sharing what they were thankful for, which included everything from hamburgers and chicken to their moms, dads, and siblings. It was the perfect beginning to a new unit about culture, family, food and celebrations, called “Not The Same, Not All That Different.” The pre-k classrooms began December with a trip to the Smithsonian Native American and African American Museums.
Lincoln Park Families and staff continue to be excited about the finished school building on 12th Street. The campus put together a Harvest Parade through Lincoln Park. Students had lots of fun
showing off their imaginative costumes to their families. The holiday season began with a cornucopia feast with almost forty families attending and a successful canned food drive to help families in need. The preschool students recently read the story Everybody Loves Rice and learned about the different types of rice dishes served around the world.
Open Houses and Enrollment AppleTree Early Learning PCS’s enrollment application is live and available on the school’s website. Admission is open to children of DC residents who are 3- or 4-years-old by September 30, 2012. AppleTree has a strong academic program that provides young children with the social, emotional and cognitive foundations that will enable them to succeed in school. The campuses will be holding open houses on January 27 (11 a.m.-noon) and February 16 (4-5 p.m.).- Schuyler Softy; Southwest Campuses- Amidon
Students at Friends Community School performed “The Mysterious Light,” a concert created and directed by music teacher Kiersten Whitehead to celebrate the winter holidays. Light is an important part of many of the holidays. The concert told the story of a girl named Alexis who hears a song about light and goes on a journey to learn more about it. The children sang a variety of songs about light including “Siyahamba,” a Zulu hymn. The songs incorporated dance and instrumental accompaniment. Several instrumental groups entertained the students and their families and there were selections using hand bells and hand chimes. Many students at the school also spent part of December learning about the winter holidays – Chanukah, Christmas, Kwanza and the Winter Solstice, all of which incorporate light as important themes. They read books, created artwork, saw plays and learned about the traditions families in the school use to mark the holidays. Friends Community School is a small Kindergarten through 8th grade Quaker school that welcomes students of all beliefs. It educates a growing number of children from Capitol Hill, as well as students from other parts of the metropolitan area. Admissions open houses are scheduled at the school for January 6 and January 21. In addition, there will be an information session on Capitol Hill Thursday, January 5 from 7– 8:30 p.m. For more information, contact Connie Belfiore, Director of Admissions and Outreach, at connie@friendscommunityschool.org or 301-441-2100 x129. Eric Rosenthal. 5901 Westchester Park Drive. College Park, Maryland. www.friendscommunityschool.org. Happy & Healthy New Year to all! -SBJ ★
Homes & Gardens New Garden on the Hill in the New Year Kim’s Memorial Garden Takes Shape Article and Photographs by Rindy O’Brien
W
ith the holidays over and our New Year’s resolutions having been made, we settle down to the long winter ahead and dream of spring to come. But there is still one wonderful gift that we will get to unwrap in 2012 – Kim’s Memorial Garden. The garden is at the intersection of 8th Street and North Carolina and Independence Avenues and promises to become a corner of beauty, whimsy and remembrance of one of the Hill’s vibrant gardeners, Kim Brenegar.
ways. As her fiancé, Joe Ardizzone, put it, “Kim embraced life to its fullest and our hope is that the garden will be a validation of a life truly lived well. We see this as a way to honor her love of community and the environment.” Kim was an activist, conservationist, environmentalist, and someone who loved animals, art, theater and travel. Joe met her on a hikCreating a Living Legacy Kim Brenegar died in a car acci- ing trip with the Sierra dent in 2009 at the age of 49. She had Club. He was in awe been the owner of a Hill landscaping and, he admits, maybe Kim Brenegar was often seen around the Hill with her hiking boots business, “The Ornamental Garden.” even a little intimidat- on and pruning shears in hand. Kim planted many of the Hill’s Kim’s gardens were always planned ed by her on their first small gardens. with a keen sense of nature and an art hike. But, he quickly garden grew out of that day, and the for showing off garden space in unique fell for her fierce sense of independence and offbeat humor. renovation of the small park just steps “My time with Kim was amaz- from Kim’s home was chosen. ing ,” said Joe. “I think it was an excellent choice “She taught me to be more for several different reasons,” Joe comobservant about everything,” mented. “Kim was always over in the Joe said. “We could be walk- overgrown and under- cared- for area, ing down the street and some trimming back the bushes or pullmoss wedged into the crack of ing weeds that were threatening the the sidewalk would catch her health of other plants. She often eye. Suddenly, she would be would comment about finding time to drawn into the world of moss, clean it up and plant it right.” seeing all the patterns of the moss while telling me the his- Navigating the tory of the plant kingdom of Government Web moss, all at the same time.” A steering committee of Kim’s Her memorial service at friends and relatives came together Eastern Market in the North to kick off the garden process and Hall was a celebration of all take the huge step of turning the Joe Ardizzone stands in the soon- to- be Kim Memorial Park. Joe was Kim’s fiancé and is spearheading the that she did to make Hill life dream into reality. ”It certainly has effort to restore the park in memory of her work in the so rich. The idea to create a been a longer process than any of community. capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 123
homesgardens became a dirt area, and garbage and trash were left to spill over the cans and scatter under the seating. The first official step of the Friends of Kim Brenegar group was to obtain a contract with the city, in this case the DPR, to be responsible for revitalizing and maintaining the park. On October 15, 2010, the contract was signed. The local ANC commissioners were very supportive and helpful in this process.
Raising the Funds to Complete the Plan
and donations have already been contributed. The overall plan is estimated to cost at least $60,000, which includes installing a low iron fence to protect future plantings, planting new trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants, repairing hardscaping and cement curbs, and resolving the issue of water or irrigation. On December 2, 2011, the National Capitol Bank awarded the garden a major grant. Earlier in the fall, Carmella Mazzotta, on behalf of the Friends group, accepted a beautification grant from the Capitol Hill Community Foundation. “We are thrilled to be recognized by the community for the work we are doing,” said Joe.
Along with obtaining the legal right to renovate the site, the Friends committee has been working to develop a landscape and maintenance plan of action, and begin structural repairs to the corner. Kim had gotten to know The garden is next to the beautiful 1890 structure that now houses many of the active Christ Our Shepherd Church, and the Care Company, that are partnering gardeners on the with Friends of Kim Brenegar to handle the financial end of the garden. Hill through activities, including her us envisioned at the start,” Joe said. The small internship work at the urban park was actually created in 1898 at US National Arboretum. the end of the Spanish-American War. The Jim Adams, her menchurch that sits adjacent to the park was built tor and long-time friend, in the 1890’s and started out as the North Friends of Kim Brenegar have posted signs in the garden to announce the new park. has drawn up the garden Carolina Avenue Methodist Church. Today the grey stone church houses Christ our Shep- landscaping plan, which includes selection of new trees and plants. In herd Church. The Care Company, a DC-based 501 C -3 Like many of our smaller parks on the Hill, the past year, the Master Gardeners of DC have nonprofi t organization, is serving as the adminthe land eventually ended up being managed pitched in to clear out the old bushes and plants istrative and financial partner with the Friends by the National Park Service, similar to and begin preparing the soil for planting. It is group. Th e Care Company operates out of Christ how Lincoln Park remains under NPS control estimated that over $10,000 of in- kind work Our Shepherd Church at 801 today. The park was enNorth Carolina Avenue, SE. closed with a post-and-chain This means that donations fence and had a flowerbed in are tax deductible. “As you the center. know, this is a rather large On December 18, 1973, undertaking for us,” noted the National Park Service Joe, “and it is vital that the deeded the property to the project be embraced by the District of Columbia govHill community beyond the ernment with some limited immediate circle of friends restriction of use for the who knew and loved Kim.” property. The park landed in the DC Department of Kicking off the New Year Parks and Recreation (DPR) “We held our first comcare with severely limited munity meeting in early resources to maintain the November to introduce the garden. Over the years, the garden project to neighbors oak trees grew to majestic Identifying the source of water for park maintenance is still on the to-do-list and may need a first- rate Hill historian and interested gardeners,” heights; the center garden to help find it. 124 ★ HillRag | January 2012
Joe reported. He went door to door leaving off flyers announcing the meeting. The Capitol Hill Garden Club has been involved and helped spread the word. In the coming months, there is a lot of work to be done, so that we all can enjoy the gift of the garden. This is where the Hill community can kick off the New Year right, by pledging to get involved. History buffs with no green thumb are needed to dig around in history books to find out more about the water meter and water sources for that corner. Art and recycling fans should know that raw material is needed to create a mosaic for the courtyard. The mosaic is designed to give color and whimsy to the site. Needed are frostresistant recycled materials like porcelain shards, glass/ mirror shards, stones and pebbles, sea glass and river rocks, small figurines and objects connected to Kim. Dee Saunders is the artist working on creating the mosaic in what she describes as a “Where’s Waldo” design. Of course, funds are also needed and donations and can be sent to the Care Company, 801 North Carolina Avenue, SE, Washington, DC 20003 attention: Monique Sommer. Checks should be made out to Friends of Kim Brenegar, and are tax-deductible. Finally, the garden needs spirited volunteers to help as well. Email to FriendsofKimBrenegar@gmail.com and let the committee know what time and talent you have to offer. Rindy O’Brien lives on Capitol Hill and hopes we all join in the effort to see Kim’s Garden be a bright spot on Capitol Hill. Comments can go to her at rindyobrien@gmail.com ★
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homesgardens
A Bucket List for 2012 by Catherine Plume
I
f you’re even a bit like me, the ol’ New Year’s Resolution idea lost its charm several years ago. So instead of “resoluting” (note: I guess this can stay, though it really should be ‘resolving’) to anything this year, I’m doing a 2012 Bucket List. My bucket contains things that will keep me healthy –ideally both physically and mentally-- and most will contribute to my green ethics. My bucket contains some things I’ve done for years - and some I’m going to try for the first time this year – and will get me out of my comfort zone. Below are some of the contents of my 2012 bucket.
I <3 CSAs! Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) began in the early 1960s in Europe and Japan in response to concerns about food safety and the urbanization of agricultural land. A CSA is a community of individuals who pledge support to a farming operation and share the risks and benefits of food production. Usually there’s a weekly delivery or pick-up of vegetables grown during the season. Bread, eggs and flowers may be an option depending on the CSA. Most CSAs subscribe to low or no pesticide use, but it’s always good to ask. There are
126 ★ HillRag | January 2012
several CSAs that deliver to various locations here on the Hill. Ask around! Local Harvest (www.localharvest.org/csa/) has a directory to help you find a CSA anywhere in the US as well as questions to ask a farmer before joining. But CSAs aren’t for everyone. Tomatoes don’t ripen in this area until July, so until then, you’re likely to get lots of greens. In August, you’ll have all the tomatoes you want! If you’re looking to save money, or if you like to plan meals out in advance, CSAs aren’t for you. If, however, you’re looking for a local source of fresh vegetables while supporting local farmers, lowering your carbon footprint, and expanding your culinary world, they’re a great option.
campaign returned during World War II. After a long absence, the movement was revived in 2003 and backed by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health’s Center for a Livable Future. Meatless Monday (www.meatlessmonday.com) provides a wealth of information on meatless recipes and benefits to going meatless even one day a week. In addition to the health benefits, going meatless one day a week has environmental benefits as well. One pound of beef requires some 1,800 to 2,500 gallons of water to produce. Just think how much pasta you could boil up with that!
Meatless Monday
There’s a saying, “The less routine, the more life.” Capitol Hill is rich in transportation options. My office is located four miles from my house, and I can walk, jog, bike, bus or metro there – taxiing and driving just aren’t things I do. With the exception of walking, bizarrely enough, all of these options get me to work in about the same amount of time. By mixing up my commute, I meet DC. I take the metro when I don’t want to talk or text. I usually bike to work, and on that
During World War I, the U.S. Food Administration asked Americans to reduce their consumption of key staples to aid the war effort, and “Meatless Monday” and “Wheatless Wednesday” were born. The response was overwhelming and some 10 million families pledged to join the movement. The
Mixing Up the Commute
commute, I’ve met Michelle Obama’s scheduler. When I ride the bus, I often run into Tommy Wells (and engage him on some issue!). While these run-ins with DC “celebs-of-sorts”are fun, it’s the regular folks I’ve run into on my commute who have given me a deeper appreciation of DC’s rich diversity.
Occupying our Neighborhood The sweetest spot of my 2012 bucket is a commitment to occupy our neighborhood. As Capitol Hill becomes ever more upscale, I want to do my part to ensure that some of the key elements that attracted me to the neighborhood some 16 years ago stick around. In my “occupying our neighborhood,” I’m going to support locally owned businesses and restaurants - especially those that provide meals for less than $20 a plate. I’m going to pick up (most of ) the plastic bags I find on my dog walks and check in on Roger, the semi homeless man, when I see him. My “occupation” means freecycling stuff on the sidewalk in front of my house and keeping birdfeed in (what has largely become) my squirrel feeder. It means volunteering at the library and bringing in my neighbor’s packages when it starts to rain. It means saying “hi” to the firefighters and inviting them and the postal carriers to our annual block party. And with up to six Wal-Marts coming to DC, it means shopping at Frager’s and Chateau Animaux versus big box and online stores. I’d love to be one of those folks who have helped make Capitol Hill schools a place where parents want to enroll their kids. I’m ever grateful for their efforts – but that probably won’t fit into my bucket this year. So maybe my 2012 bucket isn’t that different than a list of New Year’s Resolutions after all. What’s your 2012 bucket looking like? Catherine Plume is a Capitol Hill resident and the blogger for the DC Recycler http:// dcrecycler.blogspot.com/ ★
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homesgardens gardenspot
Winter beauty in your landscape Color, texture, and contrast in a winter garden. Photos and article by Derek Thomas is a great shade tree in the summer garden. Due to its ease of care, disease and drought resistance and beautiful, peeling bark it is one of the best Birches in the winter garden.
Kousa Dogwood, Cornus kousa. This dogwood blooms about three weeks later than the native dogwood. The blooms are just as memorable and give quite a different show since they emerge after the tree’s leaves have opened. Both species are known for their showy flowers, colorful fall display and red berries. The Kousa has a habit of forming a more multi-bough, umbrella shaped, medium canopy that is very attractive when planted as a specimen tree. The most striking aspect of the Kousa is its beautiful flaking bark that displays various shades of tan, gray and brown. The picture-perfect growth habit and bark make the Kousa Dogwood a memorable addition to the winter landscape.
Gold Dust Plant, Acuba japonica ‘Variegata’
Paper Birch’s bark has a ghostly glow in the winter landscape.
T
he beautiful flowers of fall have faded. Frost has withered even our toughest annuals. Our show stopping perennials have had their final encore. The ghostly silhouettes of stark leafless trees have replaced the beautiful fall foliage. Our lush landscapes are beginning to take on that grayer feel that confirms winter is here. There are many things to keep a gardener busy during the early winter; amending soils, final pruning, and the last clean up of the season. However when considering our fall tasks many gardeners forget that January is a great time to plant a tree or shrub in your landscape. Trees and shrubs are dormant and if the ground is not frozen you can easily dig the hole and get your new plant in and settled before the first robins return in spring. Another reason that planting now is a good idea is that you can pick trees that have beautiful 128 ★ HillRag | January 2012
winter bark. Plant beauty does not only come in the form of lush green foliage. The following list is some of my favorite picks for winter beauty. You can add plants that will provide you with everything from wonderful peeling bark to attractive evergreen foliage and red berries. These plants shine and glow in our otherwise quiet, wintry gardens.
Paper Birch, Betula papyrifera. This is perhaps the toughest of all birch species. It is found natively throughout the Northeast, the South and in parts of the Midwest. It is very tolerant of poorly drained soil, heat, humidity, and an array of pests. River birch can be found along riverbeds in our area. They thrive in the very moist, silty soils. This Birch has a beautiful cinnamon to creamy brown flaking bark that becomes darker with age. It gets to be large and
This shrub is a good example of the beauty that broad leaf evergreens add to the landscape. This variety has dark green shiny leaves with irregular splotches, freckles, and splashes of gold to yellow. The patterns are reminiscent of a painter’s canvas. The green stems are thick and smooth. The gold dust plant will easily reach 6 to 10 feet high with a spread that is slightly less. Plant in partial shade in well-drained soil and add ample organic matter annually. Placing it in full sun will cause bleaching or scalding of the leaves. Cuttings can be harvested and used for decorations Acuba adds color and contrast in winter’s stark landscape. during the holiday season.
Camellia, Camellia sasanqua Camellias are close relatives to the tea plant (Camellia sinensis); they are beautiful, glossy, dark leaved evergreen, shrubs that have many different flower colors and types to choose from. The flowers range from white to pink to red and some have two colors on the same flower. The flowers are single, semi-double, and double and can mimic other flowers like peonies or roses. The species sasanqua blooms in the late fall to early winter. In our Washington gardens you can have blooms in mid to late December depending on the mildness of early winter. Plant all camellias in well-protected areas since winter winds can burn the leaves. In our gardens the best exposure is western or northern. They will thrive in moist well-drained acidic soil high in organic compost.
Mahonia, Mahonia japonica This close relative of barberry has a very pre-historic look and feel. Their leaves are thick and leathery and have an artificial appearance that commands a closer inspec-
ing by removing the entire oldest cane will help to keep young shoots coming.
Western Arborvitae, Thuja plicata
Fall Camellia adds color when most plants are going dormant.
tion. The leaves are composite leaflets that are very spiny and together make up the entire leaf. Plant will grow 6 to 10 feet high with a very irregular growth pattern. In late winter to early spring clusters of fragrant, yellow flowers appear. They are quite showy when in bloom. The fruit that appears when the blossoms fade are small deep blue berries that provide a treat in early spring for many birds. Grow in welldrained acidic soils in the partial shade.
This arborvitae has a wonderful pyramidal growth habit. It is evergreen, and has an emerald green to golden cast on its leaves. This large shrub is perfect for use in screening and can mature to 50 feet tall. However it responds quite well to pruning and can be sheared into a very attractive hedge. During the winter it is quite durable to the damaging weight of snow. It is also very tolerant of either full sun or shade. This is a great replacement for the often over-used Leyland Cypress. Give this shrub moist well-drained fertile soil and watch it thrive. These are just a few of the great choices for winter beauty. We could add to it plants that flower in the winter, plants that begin to grow in the fall and have their best foliage by Mid February, and plants that never truly go
Heavenly Bamboo, Nandina domestica The common name that has been give to this native of China may deter many gardeners from planting it. However, rest assured that #4 Nandina’s red berries add a pop of red to an other wise dull winter palate. this plant is not related to the aggressive bamboo plants. In fact this dormant. In fact the late fall and early winter plant forms a rather neat clump as it ma- is just as full of beautiful landscape plants as tures. The dark shiny green leaves are sets any other time of year. So during the next visit of leaflets and the appearance is graceful to your garden center or nursery, ask them to and fern like. The foliage is evergreen and show you the plants that have winter interchanges color to beautiful shades of reds in est. I am confident you will be surprised how the winter. The white clusters of springtime many choices there are to help you bring winflowers mature into grape-like bunches of ter beauty to you garden. Enjoy. red berries in fall. If left on the plants the berries will last the entire winter. The cul- Derek Thomas is principal of Thomas Landscapes. His ture of this plant makes it a must for anyone garden designs have been featured on HGTV ’s Curb looking for a low maintenance attractive Appeal, and Get It Sold. His weekly garden segment can be seen on WTTG/Fox 5 in Washington. addition to the landscape. It will grow in He can be reached at www.thomaslandscapes.com or many soil types and light exposures and is 301.642.5182. You can find and friend us on Facebook very tolerant of dense shade. Regular prun- at Facebook/Thomas Landscapes. ★
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I am thrilled that January is here. I can rest and look out the window at my garden’s beautiful bones. Am I forgetting anything? Maybe not. Unless you have a vegetable garden. Then you might like some hints from Pat Taylor of the King’s Court Community garden about good places to buy vegetable seeds. Pinetree Garden Seeds offers small packs of seeds, many for less than $2 and even these small packs can last for 2-3 years because most Capitol Hill vegetable gardens are small. Pinetree Garden Seeds PO Box 300 New Gloucester, ME 04260 www.superseeds.com Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Co. has a nice catalog filled with color illustrations, and sells only OpenPollinated, Pure, Natural, and Non- GMO seeds – no genetically modified organisms. Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Co. 2278 Baker Creek Road Mansfield, MO 65704 www.rareseeds.com Johnny’s Selected Seed, headquartered in Winslow, Maine, founded in 1973, carries a wide variety of seeds. I like that it is an employee-owned seed producer and merchant. Its webpage has a lot of information about the company’s goals and philosophy.
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Johnny’s Selected Seed P.O. Box 299 Waterville, Maine 04903 www.johnnyseeds.com/ All on his own, my husband, who has never helped in the garden, tells me his New Year’s Resolution for 2012 is to help in the garden. I don’t know why. I don’t want him to. I like my time mulling things over, planning, digging, and just puttering around aimlessly. I love the man. I know he is sincere. Help me resolve this nicely. Gardening is many things. A time to relax by losing one’s self in an absorbing task -- solitaire. A learning process different from paperwork. A union with nature. A delight in beauty. The challenge of the chemistry, biology, and botany of nature. If your husband’s resolution does not come from feelings of guilt or duty, you could give him part of the garden as his own. Or give him tasks that match his talents – perhaps solving a problem – bad soil, choosing a tree, finding a patio installer. Or give him tasks that can use his physical strength, such as installing arbors, trellises, birdhouses, mirrors, seating areas and furniture. Or try boring him, by sending him, with precise instructions, on errands for mulch, fertilizer, tools. Of course, he might just want to spend more time with you. If you gardened together, you might enjoy yourself even more.
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Feeling beset by gardening problems? Send them to the Problem Lady c/o The Capitol Hill Garden Club at andrew@ hillrag.com. Your problems might prove instructive to others, and help them feel superior to you. Complete anonymity is assured. Capitol Hill Garden Club programs are free. On Tuesday, January 11 2011 at 7 p.m., the Club will feature a panel of members talking about their own gardens – “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly”. At the Church of the Brethren, 4th Street door, corner North Carolina Avenue and 4th Street, SE. Membership details at 202-543-7539. ★
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202-370-7902 www.jimzinn.com • Free estimates • No job is too small Affordable rates • Licensed, insured and bonded
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E V G CONTRACTORS
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references
Suburban Welding Company
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E D D I E Home Improvement
· Painting Interior & Exterior · Carpentry · Drywall · Moulding · Floors · Hardwood · Kitchen & Bath Remodel · Plumbing · Doors & Windows · Brick Pointing · Patios
INTERIOR DESIGN
Free Estimates Cell
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202-247-0104
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SUPPORT YOUR NEIGHBORS AND LOCAL BUSINESSES!
134 ★ HillRag | January 2012
Open a Window of Possibilities Create a home that nurtures you With the assistance of
JACKS
· Comprehensive Design and Maintenance Services · Installation, arbors, retaining walls, walkways, lighting, water features · Patios, roof top gardens, townhomes, single family homes • Trees & shrubs, formal & informal gardens • Custom Masonry, Fencing and Iron work · Restoration and Enhancement
Kathleen Soloway Interior Designer/Psychotherapist
Redefining Beauty One Client at a Time
301.642.5182
Design for Change 202 543-7040 ksoloway@designforchange.net www.designforchange.net
www.thomaslandscapes.com
THOMAS LANDSCAPES
Specializing in urban landscapes since 1989 Derek Thomas / Principal - Certified Professional Horticulturist, Master Gardener. Member of the MD Nursery and Landscape Association & the Association of Professional Landscape Designers
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REGINALD’S LANDSCAPING Specializing in perennial gardens, landscape design, yard maintenance, seasonal contracts-free estimates for major cleanups, spring/fall cleanups, mulching, pruning, trimming, weeding, debris removal, leaf removal, light hauling, planting and much, Call today! 301-420-7027, 301-908-8331.
MASONRY
HANDYMAN & HAULING CO
Ricardo Ramos
Handyman Hauling Painting Blinds Lights Ceiling Fans Furniture Drywall Labor
Junk Removal Demolition Yard Cleanup Estate Cleanup Light Moving
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202.396.0105
license # 1948 • MD DC VA
Inquire about our cleaning company RamosPainting1956@live.com
CONTINENTAL MOVERS FOR A STRESS FREE MOVE
301-661-3515 301-680-2065
Owner Operated since 1982
PLUMBING Serving Capitol Hill for 50 Years
OSEPH C. BAUER, INC. Plumbing and Heating Licensed and Insured
MOVING & HAULING
DC 202.547.3477 MD 301.420.3200
• Local Moving • Long Distance All East Coast cities from Florida to Maine
• Packing Services • Pianos and Big Objects
WHS PLUMBING & HEATING
202-438-1489 • 301-340-0602
Superior Service and Quick Response
www.continentalmovers.net Cmora53607@msn.com
Highly Rated in Consumers’ Checkbook, Better Business Bureau, Yelp and Angie’s List
We are Repiping & Drain Cleaning Specialists
Peach Moving Services
· Competitive On The Spot Pricing · Same Day, Nights, Weekends & Emergency Service · Licensed Plumbers and Gasfitters · Underground Domestic Water and Sewer Line Leak Detection · Underground Pipe Locator
When Trust Matters Most Residential, Office & Commercial
Local, Long Distance, Pianos
Hill Family Owned & Operated
301.699.2066 www.greatscottmoving.com BEST DC MOVERS Bookstore Movers: Washington City Paper’s “Best DC Movers” of 2010 and 2011. Offering Professional, Honest and Reliable Residential Moving Services to the DC Metro Area. Visit www.bookstoremovers.com or call (202) 570-4697 for a free quote.
Call William at
Short Term Notice Moves Local & Up to 300 mile Radius Expert Packing & Unpacking Temporary Storage by the Day Hourly Rates
Michael Pietsch (aka Peach) Capitol Hill Resident
202.368.7492 www.peachmoving.com
PAINTING
SUPPORT YOUR NEIGHBORS AND LOCAL BUSINESSES!
(202) 255-9231
Little Peach in Training
• Residential • Commercial • Insured • DC LIC 4748 • Established 1974 Interior & Exterior Custom Painting Restoration & Repair Services
202-965-1600 www.jfmeyer.com
20 years of experience Licensed, Bonded and Insured LSDBE Certified
PEST CONTROL
www.whsplumbingandheating.com
F L K Termite, Pest & Rodent Control More than just killing bugs, we take care of your home • Babies, children, pets, no worries, customized treatments • Latest environmentally sound methods and products • One time, monthly, bimonthly, quarterly, yearly LICENSED & INSURED
Free Estimates
301.273.5740 301.576.3286
capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 135
ROOFING / GUTTERS
ALL TYPES OF ROOFING REPAIRS
Alex Williams Seamless Gutters • Box Gutters
Star Roofing Company
• Gutter Guards • Gutter Repairs • Gutter Cleaning
RELIABLE
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Specializing in Residential & Commercial Flat Roof Systems
• Water Proofing
202-543-6383
Free Estimates
(202) 256 6981 (301) 858 6990
All work done by owner • Free Estimates Insured • Licensed • Bonded
Licensed • Bonded • Insured
FLAT ROOF SPECIALIST WE STOP LEAKS! • Roof Repairs • Roof Coatings • Rubber • Metal • Slate
• Tiles • Chimneys • Gutters • Waterproofing • Roof Certifications
Our Prices Won’t be Beat!
DANIEL PARKS Roofing & Gutters NO JOB TOO SMALL!!! “Stopping Leaks is Our Specialty”
EMERGENCY REPAIRS
We Do Everything!
BOYD CONSTRUCTION INC.
EXPERT WORKMANSHIP AT REASONABLE PRICES! Residential/Commercial Over 40 years in Business Chimney Repairs Storm & Wind Damage Repair
• New or Re-Roofing • Tear-Off & Replacement • Flat Roof Specialist • Copper, Tin, Sheet Metal & Rolled • Seamless & Flat Roofs • Re-Sealing • Tar, Asphalt, Gravel, Hot Coats • Modified Bitumen • Ask about our gutter specials Insurance Claims • Free Estimates • 24Hr. Service
Fully Insured • Licensed • Bonded “No Job Too Large or Small” Senior & Military Discounts Available!
We are a family-owned business with three generations of expertise in Capitol Hill.
• New tin, copper & membrane roof systems • Inspections & repairs • Roof painting • Gutters, spouts & skylights
Recommended roofer of Capitol Hill Village and Dupont Circle Village Licensed-Insured-Bonded
Call now for a FREE ROOF INSPECTION
202-569-1080 tom@rthomasdanielroofing.com www.rthomasdanielroofing.com
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Hi Ex
All Work Inspected by Owner...Deals Directly with Customers! All Work Fully Guaranteed
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RUBBER & FLAT ROOFS WATER PROOFING SLATE ROOFS LEAK REPAIRS METAL ROOFS GUTTER REPAIRS SHINGLE ROOFING CHIMNEY REPAIRS FACIAL/SOFFITS ALUMINUM ROOF COATING
BBB Member
202-223-ROOF (7663)
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202-489-1728 Licensed, Bonded & Insured Free Estimates Senior and Government Discount 10%
We Offer Wholesale Prices to the Homeowner
THE BEST RATES IN DC! Stopping Leaks is our Specialty! We Do it All! Tiles & Shingles • Vinyl and Aluminum Siding • Skylights • Gutters & Downspouts • Chimneys • Waterproofing
No Job Too Small!
202.637.8808 Serving DC Since 1927 Licensed, Bonded & Insured
SPECIALIZING IN SEAMLESS GUTTERS
Johnston & Johnston Roofing “Try a new coating vs. a roof replacement.” • FLAT ROOF SPECIALIST • WATERPROOFING • BASEMENT LEAKS • ALUMINUM ASPHALT COATING • SLATE REPAIRS • SHINGLE REPAIRS
• CHIMNEY REPAIR • BRICK POINTING • GUTTER REPAIR/GUTTER REPLACEMENT • INQUIRE ABOUT OUR SPECIALS • FREE ESTIMATES
FREE MAINTENANCE! Licensed • Bonded • Insured Family owned & operated 40 Years Experience
202-607-4038
www.JohnstonandJohnstonRoofing.com
WOOD & WHITACRE HISTORIC RENOVATIONS
202
271 4377 R.W. ROOFING
We offer the most competitive price in town. All Roofing & Rubber Roofs. We do everything: replacements, repairs, maintenance and coatings. See our ad under general contracting. 202-674-0300 or 301-929-0664.
SUPPORT YOUR NEIGHBORS AND LOCAL BUSINESSES!
20 years on the Hill Slate - Tile - Copper Specializing in all Flat Roof Systems and Leaks Free Estimates • Work Guaranteed Licensed Bonded Insured
JEFFREY WOOD cell
301-674-1991 202-828-0713
www.wood-whitacre.com
GUTTERS We Offer Wholesale Prices to the Homeowner
THE BEST RATES IN DC! SEAMLESS GUTTERS EXPERTS Gutters & Downspouts Repairs & Cleaning All Types of Roofing NO JOB TOO SMALL!
202.637.8808
Licensed, Bonded & Insured
136 ★ HillRag | January 2012
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WE DO IT ALL
75 years in service
LIC. BONDED. INS
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Software Installation Troubleshooting Upgrades
• • • • •
Repairs of Original Cast Iron Staircases Window bars and door security gates Handrailings & Stair Railings Fences, Sidewalk Gates, Tree Box Fences DC code approved bedroom window security bars • Excavating, back hoe services and tree stump grinding • Certified welding
24-hours, 7-day service Free estimates
703-765-9344
• • • •
Personal Training Customized Meal Plans Wellness Lectures Boot Camps
Reasonable Rates
fagon@hillrag.com 202-250-1217
For more information
888.899.5320 info@justefitness.com www.justefitness.com
Computer Trouble? On-site Service • Reasonable Rates
Burn Over 700 Calories in one class 19 D Street, SE
1880 ON THE OUTSIDE
WE OFFER 40 CLASSES A WEEK!
GIANCARLO FAGON 202.250.1215 gbfagon@gmail.com
2010 ON THE INSIDE Basic Care - $50/h
Replacement Window & Door Installation Group Historically Accurate Replacement of Exterior Window Casings The Best Installation Crew Wood, Fiberglass Framed & Vinyl Windows, Replacement & Full Tear Out Installation, Wide Range of Custom Moldings
Windows Craft, Inc. Specializing in historic buildings
202-288-6660 alex@windowscraft.com www.windowscraft.com
Introduction Offer $29 Licensed, Insured and Bonded DC Home Improvement License # 69006200
for 7 days of unlimited yoga! ALL LEVELS WELCOME! No reservations required!
INSTRUCTION Professional Tennis Instruction
www.suburbanweldingcompany.com
WINDOWS
SUPPORT YOUR NEIGHBORS AND LOCAL BUSINESSES!
Bailo Ba Davis Cup Veteran
. Initial System Setup and
202-415-2807
Software Installation . Internet / Networking / Wireless . Virus / Spyware / Malware Adware Removal . Maintenance / Cleaning Performance Boost . Computer Instruction and Tutoring
bailoba2@verizon.net
Advanced Care - $80/h
. Hardware / Setup / Repair . Custom Computer Building
All Skill Levels $62 private $35 semi-private $26 group lesson Lessons on Capitol Hill Professional Tennis Registry
OTHER SERVICES BEAUTY/HEALTH/FITNESS Living on & serving the Hill since 1986
Dr. David Walls-Kaufman Chiropractor
• Reduce stress • Increase Strength + Flexibility
Bikram Yoga Capitol Hill 410 H ST. NE 202-547-1208
LOGOS COMPUTER SERVICE
www.BikramYogaCapitolHill.com Look better, feel better and change your body!
411 East Capitol St., SE All are welcome to Dr. Walls-Kaufman's free Saturday morning Tai Chi class at 8 am in Lincoln Park
202-544-6035 Because Optimal Health is Impossible Without Optimal Posture!
PERSONAL FITNESS TRAINING 202-638-1708 WhelanStrengthTraining.com
COMPUTERS/SOFTWARE
ORGANIZING JILL-OF-ALL-TRADES Are you an entrepreneur who owns a small business? Have we got a half day conference for you -- and it’s right here on the Hill at Ebenezer’s Coffeehouse at 2nd and F NE in their beautiful downstairs meeting space. The date is Monday January 30, 2012 from 7:30 am (registration & breakfast!) with 4 excellent speaker presentations. This is a success seminar designed for “Smallpreneurs.” My talk is “Stop Fleeing Filing!” at 11:10. For more info, write to jill@jillofalltradesDC.com or get started organizing your files even sooner and call 202-544-5455!
Anchor Computers On-site Service for Homes and Businesses • Troubleshooting, Repairs & Upgrades • Virus and Spyware Removal • New and Existing Computer Setup • Network andWireless Installation • Data Recovery, Transfer and Back-up • Webpage Development
Larry Elpiner 301.767.3355 • 202.543.7055 www.computerweenies.com
SHOE REPAIR
Eastern Market Shoe Repair • Shoes • Boots • Purses • Luggage 645 Penn Ave., SE upstairs M-F 8:30-7 • Sat 9-6
202-543-5632 capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 137
PET ADOPTION
PET SERVICES
CAPITAL CATS
Personally Serving our Neighbors since 1999
pets on the hill
Adoption Event
Support your local Hill business "We live, work and play on the Hill"
at Chateau-Animaux
Sundays Noon to 3 PM 733 8th Street, S.E.
Mid-day Dog Walking AM & PM, Weekend Walks, Petsitting
a five-minute walk from Eastern Market Metro.
Visit our Web site to view pictures and their engaging personalities at www.capitalcats.petfinder.com or www.homealone.petfinder.com
• Women Owned and Operated • Expert Cat Care - All Areas of the Hill • Medications, Plant Watering, Mail and Paper • Trustworthy and Reliable
Capital Cats is a non-profit cat rescue organization on the Hill that has many wonderful, personable cats and kittens available for adoption to good homes.
Kerith Grandelli bonded & insured
202.546.6785
WANT TO ADVERTISE
IN THE HILLRAG
H I L L P E T S @ YA H O O . C O M
zoolatry (zoo-ahl’-uh-tree) the worship of animals – especially a pet
MISC.
CLASSIFIEDS?
Mid-Day Dog Walking Service
FOR SALE Pet sitting – Medications Administered Crate Training Insured – Bonded Member of National Association of Professional Petsitters
(202) 547-WALK (9255) Meet Our Walkers Online at
www.zoolatry.com
WELL SEASONED FIREWOOD Conveniently Located Just Outside DC • Pickup or Delivery • Large or Small Amounts • Over 10 years Serving DC Open M-F 10am-4pm • Sat 10am-2pm
(202) 554-4100 firewdfac@yahoo.com 4521 Kenilworth Avenue, Bladensburg, MD - Rear Lot
LEARN LANGUAGE Big dogs, puppies, hard to handle and older dogs. I love them all ….and I also love kitties.
Chinese on the Hill Helen Zhu professional language instructor (for children and adults)
Phillip DuBasky Dog Walking, Kitty Care & Pet Sitting
Serving Capitol Hill Since 1995 Never missed a walk in 10 years Experienced and Reliable Outstanding Hill References • Insured by PSA
202.889.0996 138 ★ HillRag | January 2012
PET SITTING Would your cat or kitten like to be pampered, cared for and played with while you’re away or at work? Then you should give me a call as I would love to pet-sit your cat or kitten. Joyce at 202-547-0556
Mandarin lessons Cooking lessons
202.885.9406 www.chinesehorizon.net
CONTACT CAROLINA
LOPEZ 202.543.8300
X12
It’s Easy to Find The January Hill Rag!
O
E
It Will Be at Numerous Locations on December 31, 2011
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You can find The Hill Rag @ Fine Establishments: CityVista
Mr. Henry’s
St. Mark’s Church
300 M ST SE
3rd ST & I ST NE
Atlas Theater
National Capital Bank
St. Peter’s Church
355 1st ST SE
13 ST & H ST NE
Caper Carrolsburg Apartments
NE Library
Super Care Pharmacy
355 1st ST SE
12 ST & H ST NE
Capitol Hill Arts Workshop
Neighbors Cleaners
The Axiom
701 N. Carolina
1433 H ST NE
Capitol Supreme Market
New York Pizza
The Jefferson
400 1st ST SE
8 ST & H ST NE
Carrollsburg Condominiums
P&C Market
The View
100 I ST SE
13th ST & Constitution AVE NE
Coldwell Banker Capitol Hill
Park (NAM) Market
The View 2
709 8th ST SE
410 H ST NE
Congressional Cleaners
peace baptist
Town Square Towers
201 Pennsylvania AVE SE
3rd & F ST NE
Corner Market
Peregrine Expresso
Velocity
237 Pennsylvania AVE SE
200 Florida AVE NE
Cornercopia
Potomac Place Tower
Washington Sports Club
336 Pennsylvania AVE SE
239 Massachusetts AVE NE
CVS – 12th ST
Prego Cafe
Waterfront Tower
600 Pennsylvania AVE SE
331 Constitution AVE NE
CVS – 8th NW
Results Gym – Capitol Hill
Wisdom
666 Pennsylvania AVE SE
400 E. Capitol NE
CVS – 8th ST SE
Riverby Books
Yarmouth Property
801 Pennsylvania AVE SE
516 A ST NE
CVS – Benning RD
Roland’s
Eastern Market
Safeway – Benning Road
Ebenezers Coffee Fragers
700 14th ST SE
530 H ST NE
1027 Independence AVE SE
732 Maryland AVE NE
Safeway – Capitol Hill
The Hill Rag is Also Available in Boxes at These Locations:
1801 E ST SE
4th and Mass ave ne
Safeway – Connecticut AVE NW
8th ST & E ST SE
192 19th ST SE
8th and e capitol
H St Mainstreet
Safeway – MacArthur BLVD
212 D ST SE
300 19th ST SE
701 7th ST NE
Jacob’s Coffee
Schneider’s Liquor
521 8th ST SE
300 19th ST SE
1305 E. Capitol ST NE
Jenkins Row
Senate Square
15th ST & Massachusetts AVE SE
303 7th ST SE
1365 H ST NE
Lustre Cleaners
Sidamo Coffee
799 8th ST SE
4th ST & I ST NW
600 E. Capitol ST NE
Meridian at Gallery Place
Sizzling Express – Penn AVE
1350 Pennsylvania AVE SE
6th ST & E ST NE
1200 E. Capitol ST NE
Metro Cleaners
Southeast Library
1100 New Jersey AVE SE
8th ST & C ST SE
6th and I ST SW
MLK Library
Sova Espresso Bar
1200 New Jersey AVE SE
600 M ST SW
401 M ST SW
Questions about Distribution? Email distribution@hillrag.com or call 202-400-3512
thelastword
Affordable Housing ACommunity Benefit from the Hine Redevelopment by Monica Warren-Jones
T
he redevelopment of the Hine Junior High School site provides the Capitol Hill community with a unique opportunity to create a vastly improved public asset-one which will include office and retail that links Eastern Market with the vibrancy of Barracks Row, enhanced public space with proximity to transit, and an architectural aesthetic that aligns with the neighborhood fabric and has been approved by the Historic Preservation Review Board. It also offers another critically needed community benefit – affordable housing. Once completed, the development will become a choice destination that will further strengthen the Capitol Hill neighborhood where many individuals and families–from within and outside of “the Hill”, work, play, and educate their children. This development puts our neighborhood in an enviable position relative to other areas of the city that lack a comprehensive set of amenities in close proximity to where people live. Taking advantage of this well-situated site to build a new place that can be enjoyed by myriad groups of people makes me feel fortunate to be able to call the Hill my home. On December 12, I attended a meeting hosted by the Capital Hill Restoration Society on the Hine development process. I was a bit taken aback 140 ★ HillRag | January 2012
that a key public benefit–the provision of affordable housing –appeared to be somewhat misunderstood by residents as part of the requisite community benefit outcomes of the project. Valid sentiments were expressed about what constitutes a benefit and in this regard, the development plan is poised to offer some real goodies: enhanced public space for Eastern Market vendors, ample parking, space for a new public charter pre-school, and 150 units of housing of which 35 will be dedicated as affordable for low and moderate income households. One of the buildings is anticipated to be dedicated for senior living, a tremendous benefit that allows folks to age in place without sacrificing access to a vibrant community that many have grown to love and cherish. These housing “benefits” should be valued as equally as the community’s genuine concerns about how a new building and public space will fit into the historic neighborhood. As I listened to valid concerns, it seemed to me that folks could use a little more information on what affordable housing really means and why its inclusion should be regarded as an unarguable benefit for the Hine site. In the DC metro area, the area median income (AMI) for a family of four stands at about $106,000 and that figure is closer to $70,000 if the geography is limited to the District of Co-
lumbia. The generally accepted definition of affordability is for a household to pay no more than 30 percent of its annual income on housing. When rent or mortgage payments exceed 30 percent income, households are at risk of not meeting other basic needs like, food, utilities, healthcare, and perhaps the ability to secure needed items for a child’s education. And while $106,000 is indeed a healthy income, the challenge lies in the fact that many working people--like seniors, teachers, and working families--make far less than that in the District with incomes that range anywhere from 30 percent to 80 percent of this amount. Many DC residents face severe housing cost challenges and most of the severe burden of unaffordable housing costs is borne by lower income families, who earn roughly less than $50,000 a year for a family of four. Families earning less than 30 percent AMI face the greatest burden by far when over 62% pay more than half of their income in housing costs. Finding an affordable unit, especially near good transit service becomes a real imperative given the reality that a lower income makes owning a car (or two) unfeasible. Given a renewed ethos with green, livable communities, it clearly makes sense to support measures that help more people, regardless of income, have access to a regional public transit system. The problem however, is particularly
acute when a modest family budget can only afford $795 for rent but as is the case on the Hill and much of the District, average monthly rents range from $1800 to $2400. According to the DC Fiscal Policy Institute, during the first seven years of the decade, the District has lost a third of its low cost rental stock primarily due to condo conversions and escalating rents. At least 24,000 rental units, with rents of $750 per month or less are no longer available while units that cost $1500 or more per month more than doubled in supply from 12,000 to 27,000. These factors, coupled with a foreclosure crisis that has left the most financially vulnerable households even more at risk for displacement means that it is critical for the city to leverage its policies and public land dispositions in ways that will achieve more affordable units for our seniors, educators, police officers, healthcare workers and others in the workforce. The organization I work for, Enterprise Community Partners has invested $450 million to preserve or create 10,000 thousand units in the DC metro area and here in Capitol Hill, we’ve deployed more than $4.3 million to ensure that seniors and working families can also call Capitol Hill their home either as renters or homeowners. All of these folks are critical contributors to what makes our neighborhood a thriving and diverse place in which
to raise our families. Our schools are better places when the educators that work there also have the ability to live in the neighborhood – a factor that supports an obvious vested interest in the success of all of our children. In the past, the City provided a range of programs that allowed people to purchase homes or rent decent apartments in DC neighborhoods like Capitol Hill. With escalating land values and tight city budgets, these subsidies are not easily available or have not been given priority. Important affordable housing tools that do not require direct funds include leveraging the value of public land (like the Hine School), and policy tools like inclusionary zoning which requires that developers create a set amount of units for a range of incomes. I urge folks to keep in mind that while we validly seek to protect our community’s aesthetic during a large scale design process, we do so in a way that does not erode the ability to create quality, affordable homes for an array of income levels that are so desperately needed in our great city. Those units are great community benefits too. Monica Warren-Jones is the Director of Relationship Management for the Washington, D.C. office of Enterprise Community Partners Inc., a leading provider of the development capital and expertise its takes to create decent, affordable homes and rebuild communities. She also serves as the Ward 6 Member on the D.C. State Board of Education. ★
capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 141
the NOSE
The Councilmember of La Mancha by Anonymous
R
ecently, The Nose was out drinking in the wilds of Outer Caucasia. Where might you ask is that, Dear Readers? Well, it is the region just behind the Capitol that never tiring of Fenty fell deeply in love with Mara. This once down-on-itsheels neighborhood, known colloquially as “The Hill” now boasts, some of the most expensive Victorians in our fair metropolis. Yet, despite its steadily climbing rents, The Hill remains home to some of the best dive bars in the District. On a warm winter’s eve, The Nose had taken up residence at the bar of just such establishment; one distinguished by the installation of a doe’s hindquarters directly above the entrance to the gentlemen’s facilities. Now, Dear Readers, when The Nose decides to imbibe his choice of fine southern liquor, it is generally a solitary occupation. Yet, his lips had not even touched his glass before the local councilmember, a favorite son of Alabama, settled on to the adjacent stool. Was The Nose being stalked? Were his fedora and Groucho glasses insufficient camouflage? Was there no oasis in this fair metropolis safe from the twittering, blogging members of the politicati? Ordering a glass of wine, Tommy “Don Quixote” Wells turned to The Nose. Before the sainted councilmember could even begin to spin this poor scribbler’s barstool on the subject of his lone dissent on the ethics reform, The Nose interposed a question. “Why do you do these things?” asked The Nose. “What things?” Don Tommy said. “These ridiculous votes that you do!” “I hope to add some measure of grace to the world,” retorted the starry-eyed councilmember. “The world’s a dung heap and we are maggots that crawl on it!” observed The Nose staring into his bourbon.” “The Public knows better in its heart.” “What’s in my heart will get me halfway to hell. And you, Don Tommy--you’re going to take such a beating!” The Nose retorted glumly. “Whether I win or lose does not matter.”
142 ★ HillRag | January 2012
“What does?” “Only that I follow the quest.” The Nose spit on the bar floor emphatically. “Take that for your Quest!” The Nose got off of his barstool and began tottering towards the door. Then, curiosity piqued, suddenly, he turned back asked, “What does do you mean... Quest?” “It is the mission of each true Councilmember... His duty... nay, his Destiny!” replied Don Tommy, launching into song: To dream the impossible dream, To fight the unbeatable foe, To bear with unbearable isolation To run where the corporate funded dare not go; To win the unwinnable race. To campaign, pure and chaste, on Twitter, To try, when your contributors are too small, To reach the unreachable Sixth Floor!* This is my Quest to go the Sixth Floor, No matter how hopeless, no matter how far, To fight for the bikes and the dogs Without question or pause, To be willing to march into hell For a walkable-livable cause! And I know, if I’ll only be true To this glorious Quest, That my heart will lie peaceful and calm When I’m laid to my rest. And the world will be better for this, That one candidate, scorned and covered with scars, Still strove, with his last ounce of courage, To reach the unreachable Sixth Floor! A bit befuddled by his bourbon, caught up in Don Tommy’s lofty rhetoric, The Nose thought, “Who says white men can’t jump?” *For those of you who do not have the dubious pleasure of frequenting The Wilson Building, the Sixth Floor is the lair of our current Mayor. The Nose loves to hear from his Dear Readers. Email him at thenose@hillrag.com. ★
Specializing in Residential Landscape Design
Plan for your spring garden now! Call: 202-255-2573 www.pmgardendesign.com
capitalcommunitynews.com ★ 143