capitalcommunitynews.com • July 2012
Est. 1981
CAPITOL HILL
BRIGHTWOOD
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CAPITOL HILL
CAPITOL HILL
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1615 H Street, SE
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4BR/3.5BA & Parking. $789,500 – CONTRACT Genie Hutinet 202-413-7661
CAPITOL HILL 318 Kentucky Avenue, SE
2BR/1BA w/ Parking! $2,595 – FOR RENT Colin Johnson 202-536-4445
Stan Bissey 202-841-1433
CAPITOL HILL 1304 S. Carolina Ave, SE $685,000 – CONTRACT
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Sales • Rentals • Commercial Leasing • Property Management • Investments
4 H HillRag | July 2012
Rob Bergman Invites to
Join The 12th Annual Capitol Hill 4th of July Parade Sponsored by Robert Bergman, Tiber Creek Associates of Capitol Hill and the Masons of Naval Lodge No. 4 on Capitol Hill
Wednesday, July 4th – 10 AM Don't miss: • • •
The Commandant's Own Drum & Bugle Corps The contestants of the Miss United States Pageant The Fairy Princess Patrol, The Little Superheros
•
All of your neighbors, friends, their dogs and cats and co-Grand Marshalls Tommy Wells and Naval Lodge Worshipful Master Carroll Collins
Capitol Hill
Celebrate the Nation's Birthday!
4 The parade will begin at 10am from the intersection of 8th and I Streets SE and end at the Eastern Market Metro Plaza. Find a spot to watch the fun anywhere along Barracks Row.
To register a marching group, visit http://tiberdc.com/4thofjuly. For more information, contact Sharon Boesen at (202) 230-4588 or email sharonboesen@gmail.com.
Proudly Presented since it’s beginning by Rob Bergman, Former Marine and The Capitol Hill Cluster Schools Parent.
202.262.3848
07.12
What’s Inside
ineveryissue 12 14 70 99 138 146 150
Go ... See ... Do Washington’s Best Calendar Hill Rag Crossword Dining Coupons Classified Ads Last Word The Nose
Hill Rag Pet special 27 46
Our Annual Pet Photo Contest Parks and Rex / Christopher Miller, DVM
capitolstreets 49 52 60 62 64 65 66 67
27
Hill Buzz: Building the Hill / Robert Pohl The Bulletin Board The District Beat / Martin Austermuhle The Numbers / Soumya Bhat ANC 6A Re port / Roberta Weiner ANC 6B Report / Emily Clark ANC 6C Report / Roberta Weiner ANC 6D Report / Roberta Weiner
communitylife 71 72 74 78 80 82
Spotted on the Hill / Peter Vankevich Capitol Riverfront News / Michael Stevens H Street Life: / Elise Bernard Barracks Row / Sharon Bosworth South By West / Will Rich @ Your Service / Heather Schoell
realestate 84
Changing Hands: Home Sales / Don Denton
ARTSdiningentertainment Special 93 96 98 100 102 104
Dining Review: Platter of Escape / Emily Clark Dining Notes / Celeste McCall The Wine Guys / Felix Milner At the Movies / Mike Canning Art and The City / Jim Magner The Literary Hill / Karen Lyon
beautyhealthfitness 107 110 112
Exercising with Your Dog / Pattie Cinelli Does It Work: Pet Teeth Cleaning / Jen Zatkowski Is It Normal? / Ronda Bresnick Hauss
kidsandfamily 115 120
Kids & Family Notebook / Kathleen Donner School Notes / Susan Braun Johnson
homesandgardens 127 132 134 136
The Hill Gardener: Summer Snowballs / Rindy O’Brien Garden Spot: A Pet-Safe Oasis / Derek Thomas Profile: D Street Construction / Ellen Boomer Dear Garden Lady / by Anonymous
Rose Jaffe has been an illustrator and portrait artist for more than a decade. She studied printmaking and drawing at the School of Art and Design at the University of Michigan and graduated with honors in May 2011. She was an award-winning political cartoonist for the Michigan Daily. Rose now teaches comic art and illustration and draws freelance commissions across the country. She was born, raised, and currently resides in Washington, DC. Rose will be showing this fall at The Washburn Arts Center Linda K. Jordan Gallery at Gallaudet University with a selection of other artists. The show will be open from August 20th - September 21st and is entitled “A Vision That Smells of Soap”. Contact rose for commissions or collaborations at jaffe.rose@gmail.com and see more of her work at www.rosjaffe.com. Follow her on twitter @rozejaff.
Hill Rag Mid City DC East Of The River Fagon Community Guides
Pets In the Chiropractic Office
I
Capital Community News, Inc. 224 7th Street, SE, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20003 202.543.8300 • www.capitalcommunitynews.com
By Dr. David Walls-Kaufman
t’s always fun to watch peoples’ eyes light up when I tell them that, Yes, I have adjusted animals. I’ll never forget when I was in chiropractic school and Dr. Schmeidel would adjust animals in the Dissection Lab every Wednesday under the low light entering from the glass cube wall. One day a student brought in his Doberman with paralyzed back legs after he had been struck by a car he was chasing. Dr. Schmeidel gently removed the muzzle on the pathetic dog who was lying on a doormat that reeked of urine, since he had lost bowel function. Dr. Scheidel lifted up the xrays from the vet’s office (who had said “Put him down”) in front of the glass cubes: the dog’s spine looked nearly like an L instead of being straight, like an I. Dr. Schmeidel, who was famous for his cruelty to us students, ever so delicately began working the kink in the spine. You could tell from the dog’s eyes he understood he was being helped. They were full of gratitude. Long story short—Three weeks later that paralyzed dog came back for a spinal checkup dancing and prancing with his master as game as you please. My own first experience with a dog came with a Doberman named Baron. He was fanatically chewing his right wrist. The vet suspected a splinter, but could find nothing. I suspected he had a nerve irritation creating a buzzing in the joint that he was trying to tear out with his canines. I adjusted Baron’s neck. He stopped chewing, and was fine for a year, when he started the horrible habit again. I adjusted him again, he stopped—and he never did it again.
For the better health and life experience of you and your family – Capitol Hill Chiropractic Center 411 East Capitol St., SE 202.544.6035. Serving our neighborhood since 1985. ADVERTISEMENT 10 H HillRag | July 2012
EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Melissa Ashabranner melissaashabranner@hillrag.com Editorial Staff
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
Kathleen Donner • kathleen.donner@gmail.com Susan Johnson • schools@hillrag.com
Society & Events
Mickey Thompson • socialsightings@aol.com
Homes & Gardens
Arts, Dining & Entertainment
Art: Jim Magner • jjmagner@aol.com Dining: Emily Clark • clapol47@gmail.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
General Assignment
Michelle Phipps-Evans • invisiblecolours@yahoo.com Celeste McCall • celeste@hillrag.com Heather Schoell • hschoell@verizon.net Virginia Avniel Spatz • virginia@hillrag.com Peter Waldron • peter@hillrag.com Kathleen Donner • kathleen.donner@gmail.com Stephanie Deutsch • scd@his.com Alice Ollstein • alice.ollstein@gmail.com Roberta Weiner • rweiner_us@yahoo.com Gwyn Jones • gwynjones@aol.com John H. Muller • jmuller.washingtonsyndicate@gmail.com Amanda Wilson • amanda.mc.wilson@gmail.com Dana Bell • dana@hillrag.com
BEAUTY, Health& Fitness
Patricia Cinelli • fitmiss44@aol.com Ronda Bresnick Hauss, LCSW • www.quietwaterscenter.com quiet_waters_center@yahoo.com
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 • clapol47@gmail.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 The Triangle • Amanda Wilson • amanda.mc.wilson@gmail.com anc6b: Emily Clark
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Associate Art Director: Jason Yen 202.543.8300 X21 • jay@hillrag.com Associate Art Director / Web Master: Jason Nickens 202.543.8300 X17 • jason@hillrag.com
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Account Executive: Kira Means 202.543.8300 X16 • kira@hillrag.com Account Executive: Jennifer Zatkowski 202.543.8300 X20 • Jenn@hillrag.com Classified Advertising: Maria Carolina Lopez 202.543.8300 X12 • carolina@hillrag.com
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Deadlines & CONTACTS
Advertising: sales@hillrag.com Display Ads: 15th of each month Classified Ads: 10th of each month Editorial: 15th of each month; submissions@hillrag.com Bulletin Board & Calendar: 15th of each month; calendar@hillrag.com, bulletinboard@hillrag.com
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
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From H ST to Barracks Row, Duddington to SOFLO - we’re selling faster than we can list ‘em.” OPEN SUNDAY July 1, 1 - 3 PM
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Now serving beer and wine for consumption on premises or patio. TGI MARVELOUS! *April through October* Music on the patio every Friday evening from 5:15 pm - 7:45 pm.
148 E ST SE $1,100,000
Finally, a Capitol Hill home with its charm and history intact. A century ago, it was The Providence Market. Today, it’s an updated 4 level, 5BR/4.5 BA corner home perched on the neighborhood’s back yard, Providence Park (aka X Park). 12 foot high tin ceiling & orig thick/thin plank floor in vast LR/DR, wooden walk-in refrigerator resurrected as a powder-room, original market sign hangs on private back deck. Newly renovated basement includes a full guest BR/BA, Den, playroom, laundry area. Brent Elementary District.
FOR SALE:
4200 Mass Ave NW Unit #120, WDC 20016 $841,500
2 Level, nearly 2000 luxurious square feet at the prestigious Foxhall. HUGE terrace patio. Security, concierge, parking, storage, pool.
UNDER CONTRACT
1st Friday of each month: Kids music with MR. SKIP 2nd and Last Friday of each month: Wine Tasting.
641 A Street, NE, #201 • 1918 14th Street, NW #46 1418 W Street, NW #104
BAKERY CAFÉ BISTRO DELI BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SNACKS ENTERTAINING CATERING
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Hours: 7am-9pm Monday-Saturday 8am-7pm Sundays
8551 Glebe Rd, N #1508 Arlington, VA 13940 Esworthy Rd Germantown, MD
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 H 11
GO.SEE.DO. Capital Hill July 4th Parade and Festival
On Wednesday, July 4, 10:00 AM, the eleventh annual Capital Hill July 4th Parade steps off at Eighth and I sts. SE. Supporting sponsors this year are “The Commandant’s Own,” The United States Marine Drum & Bugle Corps and The Miss United States Pageant. “The Commandant’s Own” leads the parade and the contestants from the Miss United States Pageant will also march. While parade organizers prefer that everyone register to march, participation seems to be open and anyone can join in the fun. The parade ends at Eastern Market Metro Plaza with a family festival featuring hot dogs, beverages, games and craft sales. The goal of this year’s event is to celebrate our very special Capitol Hill community, our schools, our families and our country. The parade and festival is also sponsored by Naval Lodge No. 4, Tiber Creek Associates of Capitol Hill, Inc, Barracks Row/CSX, Rob Bergman, The National Community Church and The Hill Rag. tiberdc.com/4thofjuly
Gilbert and Sullivan’s “The Gondoliers”
The GLBT Arts Consortium and CHAW present Gilbert & Sullivan’s “The Gondoliers” for eight performances over two weekends in August. This summer’s production continues the tradition of the slightly-twisted versions of previous Gilbert & Sullivan offerings at CHAW over the past ten years. Past productions have included “HMS Pinafore,” “Iolanthe,” “The Mikado,” “Patience,” a sampler of songs from 8 operettas, and “The Pirates of Penzance.” “The Gondolier” performances are Aug 2-4 and 9-11. Evening performances begin at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday matinees at 3:00 p.m. All performances are at the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop, 545 7th St. SE. Tickets are $20 and are available by calling 202-547-6839 or at chaw.org. Gondoliers Giuseppe and Marco as played by Trey Gibson and Kerry Jones. Photo: Leslie Mansour
12 H HillRag | July 2012
Urban Edible Garden Tour
The tour will start at the beautiful, downtown, plant-filled garden shop Old City Green, 902 N St. NW, and stretch through the revitalized neighborhoods of Shaw, Bloomingdale and Ledroit Park, where lots of new restaurants, galleries and shops are popping up. Six residential and four public gardens will be open for you to view, ask questions and hear what inspires some of DC’s best gardeners. Garden highlights include, composting, beehives, rain barrels, fruit trees, herbs and lots of ideas for growing vegetables. Plus, see for yourself and learn more about Common Good City Farm the community garden that Prince Charles recently toured as part of his inspiring Future of Food visit to DC. The second annual Urban Edible Garden Tour hosted by Loulies.com is on Tuesday, July 17, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. The tour starts and ends at Old City Green with seasonal cocktail and community share. A map of tour locations will be distributed on the day of the event at Old City Green. The tour is self-guided and will cover about four miles so you can bike or walk. $10. loulies.com Sidra Forman’s beautiful backyard garden will be on the tour again this year. Photo: Courtesy of loulies.com
Saturday Star Parties at Sky Meadows State Park
Join star party host Sean O’Brien of the Museum’s Albert Einstein Planetarium and amateur astronomers for telescopic observing under dark, star-filled skies, away from city lights. The program begins with a half-hour Junior Astronomer program for kids ages 5-12. Next is a presentation by a Jet Propulsion Laboratory Solar System Ambassador followed by night sky orientation. One of the telescopes available is a National Air and Space Museum Celestar-8, a typical “backyard” telescope available to amateur astronomers. If weather allows, there will also be telescopic observing of astronomical objects. Sky Meadows State Park is west of DC on US Route 17 North, 1 mile south of US Route 50, or 7 miles north of Interstate 66, Exit 23. The park phone number is 540-592-3556. This is a free event but parking is $5. Remaining 2012 dates are July 21, 8:00-11:00 p.m.; Aug 18, 7:30-10:30 p.m.; Sept 15, 7:00-10:00 p.m.; Oct 13, 6:00-8:30 p.m. and Nov. 10, 4:30-7:30 p.m. If the sky is cloudy, only the Junior Astronomer and multi-media programs will be presented and the park will close at 9:00 p.m. airandspace.si.edu. Join Sean O’Brien, staff astronomer of the Albert Einstein Planetarium, and other local amateur astronomers, for public telescopic observing under dark, star-filled skies, away from city lights. Photo: Eric Long, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution
MidCity Dog Days
MidCity DC is filled with independent arts and music venues, fantastic places to dine and cutting edge shops and boutiques. Every year on the first weekend of August (the hottest of the hot here in DC, hence the name) MidCity businesses come together to hold a neighborhood wide event called the Dog Days Sidewalk Festival. Founded in 2000 by Home Rule this event has grown from a sidewalk festival including just 6 businesses to now over 70! It truly is the best time to come explore this amazing neighborhood’s history, culture, food, shops, services, and people. Aug 4-5. 14th St., between P St. and Florida Ave., and U St., between 9th and 17th sts. NW. midcitydogdays.com Last summer, residents along the MidCity Corridor spilled out into the streets (with their dogs) to browse sales and sample food from the area’s retailers during the Annual Dog Days Sidewalk Sale & Celebration. Photo: Luiz Gomez capitalcommunitynews.com H 13
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JULY
HillRag CALENDAR
INDEPENDENCE DAY EVENTS Fireworks over the ballpark. Photo: Courtesy of the Washington Nationals
Post Game Fireworks at Nat’s Park. July 3. Game begins at 6:35 PM. Fireworks about 9:30 PM. Watch from inside the park or anywhere you can see the top of the park. washington.nationals.mlb.com 14 H HillRag | July 2012
July 4th National Symphony Orchestra Concert Full Dress Rehearsal. July 3, 7:30 PM. US Capitol west lawn. You will find a much smaller crowd at the concert rehearsal. You will be allowed on the Capitol grounds starting at 3:00 PM. You will go through security and alcohol may be confiscated. Free. nso.org July 4th Fireworks and National Symphony Orchestra Concert. July 4, 8:00 PM. US Capitol west lawn. Fireworks at about 9:15 PM. No one will be allowed on the Capitol west lawn until 3:00 PM. Come early with a picnic and a blanket to the grounds of the U.S. Capitol for the National Symphony Orchestra Annual Independence Day Concert. The fireworks can be seen from all over the mall, from
STRAIGHT TALK... WELL DONE.
Y
“We worked with Tom and his team when we were unexpectedly relocated for work. We had to sell our home quickly and Tom and his team worked very fast. He gave us recommendations for a few small changes in paint color and repairs, and when we agreed he had a team of contractors ready to get the work done at a reasonable price. Tom and his team were responsive to our calls, emails, and endless
Jesse: 202.288.1053 Tom: 202.255.5554 Tim: 202.577.5000
questions. And they were respectful of our time and privacy when they needed to come over and when showing the house. We have already recommended them to family who may want to sell their home in the next year or two.�
Tom Faison, Associate Broker, GRI Real Estate in DC, LLC tom@RealEstateInDC.com www.RealEstateInDC.com
202.255.5554 Summer is the best time to
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www.BikramYogaCapitolHill.com capitalcommunitynews.com H 15
JULY CALENDAR
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The crowd at one of last year’s concerts enjoys the lawn seating and the blues. Photo: Courtesy of the National Park Service
Fort Dupont Summer Concerts. Saturdays, July 14-Aug 18. The National Park Service offers six Rhythm and Blues performances in July and August as part of Fort Dupont Park’s “Summer Theatre” concert series. The concerts’ are sponsored solely by the National Park Service and free to the public. There is a Jr. Ranger tent offering programs for children and general information about Fort Dupont Park. nps.gov/fodu
many rooftops and from across the river. Just make sure that you have a clear view of the top half of the Washington Monument. You will go through security and alcohol may be confiscated. The fireworks and concert go on except in the case of extremely bad weather. Your best source for up-to-the-minute information is local TV and radio stations. Free. nso.org Independence Day Concert at Air and Space. July 4, 6:007:00 PM. National Air and Space Museum, Gallery 102, Independence Ave. at 6th St. SW. 202-633-1000. airandspace.si.edu Capitol Hill July 4th Parade and Festival Picnic. July 4. Parade,10:00 AM. Festival, 11:00 AM. Parade route is along 8th St. SE between Penn. Ave. and I St. SE. Festival is at Eastern Market Metro Plaza. Free. tiberdc.com/4thofjuly
16 H HillRag | July 2012
Patriotic Organ Concert at the National Cathedral. July 4, 2:00 PM. Washington National Cathedral. The all-American program opens with Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man, and includes opportunities for audience singing the National Anthem and “My Country, ‘Tis of Thee.” Free. 202537-8980. nationalcathedral.org The National Archives Celebrates the Fourth of July. July 4. Band performance, 8:30–9:45 AM; Ceremony, 10:0011:00 AM; Family activities, 11:00 AM2:00 PM. The celebration will include patriotic music, a dramatic reading of the Declaration by historical reenactors, and exciting free family activities and entertainment for all ages. Free. Constitution Ave. and Seventh St. NW. 202-357-5400. archives.gov America’s Independence Day Parade. July 4, 11:45 AM (sharp). Parade begins at Constitution Ave. and Seventh St. NW and proceeds on Constitution Ave. to 17th St. The parade consists of about 20 marching bands (including fife and drum corps), 15 floats, military units, giant balloons, equestrian units, drill teams, municipal entries and celebrities. july4thparade.com
“What to the Slave?” Speech Reenactment at Frederick Douglas National Historical Site. July 4, 11:00 AM-1:00 PM. Frederick Douglas reenactor delivers the famous “What to the Slave?” (does July 4th mean) speech from the front porch of the home. Kids activities follow. Free. 1411 W St. SE. 202-4265960. nps.gov/frdo Palisades July 4th Parade & Picnic. July 4, 11:00 AM. Parade route is MacArthur Blvd. between Whitehaven Blvd. and Sherier Pl. NW. The July 4th parade has been a Palisades tradition for many years. What makes this parade unique is that anyone can march in it. Registration is not necessary. The line-up begins at 10:15 AM on Whitehaven Parkway in the order in which people appear. After the parade, marchers and spectators will gather for a free picnic with moon bounces, horse rides, hot dogs, watermelon and live music at the Palisades Rec Center on Sherier Pl. palisadesdc.org Independence Day Celebration and Air Force Band Concert. July 4, 8:00 PM (fireworks over Washington Monument follow). Air Force Memorial at One Air Force Memorial Drive in Arling-
ton, VA. (14th St. Bridge into Virginia, merge onto Washington Blvd. and then Columbia Pike in the direction of the Navy Annex. Then follow signs and crowds.) Contemporary and patriotic tunes and spectacular views of the nighttime Washington, DC skyline. Free. airforcememorial.org Alexandria’s Birthday Celebration. July 7, 6:00 PM. Enjoy a concert by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra, birthday cake, food and fireworks. The evening culminates in Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture.” Oronoco Bay Park. Free. visitalexandriava.com
SPECIAL EVENTS Smithsonian Folklife Festival. June 24-July 1 and July 4-8. 11:00 AM-5:30 PM. Evening events at 6:00 PM. Festival features programs on Campus and Community, Citified, and Creativity and Crisis. Free entrance. National Mall between 7th and 14th sts. folklife.si.edu/ center/festival 2012 Twilight Tattoo at Fort Myer. Wednesdays, July 11, 18 and 25, Aug
capitalcommunitynews.com H 17
JULY CALENDAR 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29. 7:00 PM with pre-ceremony pageantry starting at 6:45 PM. The 2012 Twilight Tattoo season has been extended and will run through the entire summer. Members of the 3rd US Infantry (The Old Guard), the US Army Band “Pershings Own,” Fife and Drum Corps and the US Army Drill Team will perform an hour-long sunset military Pageant. Over 100 Old Guard soldiers dressed in period uniforms will provide a glimpse of Army history from colonial times to the soldier of the future. Summerall Field on historic Fort Myer in Arlington, VA. usarmyband.com Truckeroo Food Truck Festival. July 13, Aug 10, Sept 28, 11:00 AM-11:00 PM. Truckeroo is a monthly festival held June-Oct at the corner of Half St. and M St. SE showcasing food trucks from the DC. area. It features 20 food trucks, live music all day, picnic tables, cornhole and other games. truckeroodc.com Living Earth Festival. July 21-22. 10:30 AM4:30 PM. This festival celebrates indigenous contributions to environmental sustainability, knowledge, and activism. Tribally owned food cooperatives discuss sustainability and local farmers offer produce, meat, and traditional American Indian foods in an outdoor farmers market, while local and Native chefs compete in an Iron Chef-style cook-off. Hands-on family activities are offered for young and old alike. The festival also includes a live outdoor concert featuring the talents of Wes Studi, Stevie Salas, Jack Gladstone, Kinnie Starr, and Brule! American Indian Museum, 4th St. and Independence Ave. SW. 202-633-1000. nmai. si.edu Marine Barracks Evening Parade. Friday evenings through Aug 31. Guests admitted starting at 7:00 PM. Guests should be seated by 8:00 PM. Program begins at 8:45 PM. The Evening Parade has become a universal symbol of the professionalism, discipline and Esprit de Corps of the United States Marines. The story of the ceremony reflects the story of Marines around the world. The ceremony begins with a concert by the United States Marine Band. Free. It is wise to have reservations that can be made online at mbw.usmc.mil. Marine Barracks (front gate), Eighth and I sts. SE. 202433-4073. mbw.usmc.mil Free Summer Saturdays at the Corcoran. This summer, from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend, enjoy special exhibitions and programming free of charge in addition to Gallery tours, select workshops, demonstrations, and performances for all ages. Corcoran Gallery of Art, 500 17th St. NW. 202-6391700. corcoran.org
SUMMER MUSIC South on South Capitol Southern Rock Concert Series. July 27 and Aug 24; 11:30, on. Bands all day, mechanical bull, picnic tables. Half and M sts, SE at the Navy Yard Metro. fairgroundsdc.com Lunch at Union Center Plaza. Fridays through July 20, 11:30 AM-1:39 PM. July 6,
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Ten Feet Tall (Acoustic); July 13, Levi Stephens (Acoustic); July 20, Sam’O (Carribean). 810-840 1st St. NE. nomabid.org Evenings at Zuppa Fresca. Third Thursdays, 6:00-8:00 PM. July 19, 8 Ohms (Funk); Aug 16, Jimi Smooth & the Hittime (Motown), Sept 20, Levi Stephens(Funk/Blues). 250 K St. NE. nomabid.org Yards Park Friday Evening Concert Series. Through Sept 14, 6:30-8:30 PM. Spend your Friday evenings on the river, relaxing on the terraced lawn steps with family and friends and listening to live music from the Yards Park’s boardwalk stage. Friday evening concerts will feature a wide range of live musical performances including jazz, salsa, reggae, and more. capitolriverfront.org Military Band Concerts at the US Capitol. Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays in summer (weather permitting). 8:00 PM. Mondays, US Navy Band; Tuesdays, US Air Force Band; Wednesdays, US Marine Band; Fridays, US Army Band. Free. West Terrace US Capitol Building. US Marine Band Concerts at the Sylvan Theater. Thursdays in summer (weather permitting), 8:00 PM. You are welcome to bring folding chairs, blankets and refreshments to the concert. Free. 15th St. and Independence Ave. SW (on Washington Monument grounds). 202-433-5717. mbw.usmc.mil National Shrine Summer Organ Recital Series. Sundays in July and Aug, 6:00 PM. Free. Free will offering accepted. All welcome. 400 Michigan Ave. NE. 202-526-8300. nationalshrine.com Navy Memorial Concerts on the Avenue. Tuesdays, through Aug 28, 8:00 PM. Come out to the US Navy Memorial for an evening of relaxing music by the United States Navy Band and its specialty groups. Free. US Navy Memorial, 701 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. 202-7372300. navyband.navy.mil Air Force Band Concerts. Wednesdays and Fridays in June, July and Aug. 8:00 PM. Air Force Memorial at One Air Force Memorial Drive in Arlington, Virginia. (14th St. Bridge into Virginia, merge onto Washington Blvd. and then Columbia Pike in the direction of the Navy Annex. Then follow signs.) Expect a pleasing mix of contemporary and patriotic tunes and spectacular views of the nighttime Washington, DC skyline. Free. airforcememorial.org Jazz in the Sculpture Garden. Fridays in summer (rain or shine), 5:00-8:00 PM. National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden. Live jazz performed by an eclectic mix of top artists from the Washington area entertains visitors outdoors in front of the fountain or in the Pavilion Cafe (if it’s raining). The Pavilion Cafe features a seasonal tapas-style menu and bar service during the concerts. Everyone can enjoy these concerts. You do not have to order food or drinks. Free. 202- 289-3360. nga.gov
Strathmore Free Outdoor Summer Concerts. Wednesdays, 7:00 PM, through Aug 1. This series goes back to local with season celebrating emerging artists living in and from DC. The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD. 301-581-5100. strathmore.org
OUTDOOR SUMMER MOVIES Front Flicks Movies. Thursdays, July 5, City Slickers II The Legend of Curly’s Gold; July 12, O Brother, Where Art Thou; July 19, The Da Vinci Code; July 26, Muppet Treasure Island. Movies are held at Tingey Plaza just one block from the Navy Yard Metro (New Jersey Ave. exit) behind the US Department of Transportation building. capitolriverfront.org NoMa Summer Screen. Wednesdays, July 4: Independence Day; July 11: Red Dawn; July 18: War Games; July 25: The Incredibles; Aug 1: Jurassic Park: The Lost World; Aug 8: Deep Impact. Food and music at 7:00 PM. Screening at 9:00 PM. Each film preceded by live DJs, barbecue, special guests and more. Free. Children and friendly dogs are welcome. Loree Grand Field at 2nd and L sts. NE. nomasummerscreen.com Bethesda Outdoor Movies. July 24-28, 9:00 PM. Five evenings of major motion pictures in a variety of genres will be showcased, including new releases, action, comedy, musical and classic films. July 24-Stand By Me, July 25-Vertigo, July 26-The Muppets, July 27-Crazy, Stupid Love, July 28-Hugo. Free. Corner of Norfolk and Auburn aves. in Bethesda’s Woodmont Triangle.
MUSIC AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD Open Mic Night at Ebenezers. July 5 (first Thursday of the month), 7:00-10:00 PM. Performances start at 7:00 PM; sign-up starts at 6:45 PM. For inclusion in the lineup, it is strongly suggested to email Gideon Grove at gideongrovemusic@gmail.com with the subject line (Ebenezers Open Mic.) Showing up the day of will not guarantee you a spot. If you have not emailed in advance, you must sign-up in person. Do not call Ebenezers to reserve a spot or ask a friend to sign-up for you. Ebenezers is all-ages at all times and reserves the right to interrupt a performance due to profanity or obscene content. Free. Ebenezers Coffeehouse, 201 F St. NE. 202-558-6900. ebenezerscoffeehouse.com Doug & Telisha Williams at Corner Store. July 6, 8:00 PM. “Telisha’s vocals carry the twang of Steve Earle and Nanci Griffith, while Doug’s bluesy, country guitar conveys both rhythm and harmony.”-Performing Songwriter. $20. Corner Store, 900 South Carolina Ave. SE. 202-544-5807. cornerstorearts.org Taylor Berrett with Eric Stepanian and Casey Dinkin at Ebenezers. July 12, 7:30-10:00 PM.
$10. Ebenezers Coffeehouse, 201 F St. NE. 202-558-6900. ebenezerscoffeehouse.com Maryann Price in at Corner Store. July 20, 8:00 PM. At long last the voice behind Dan Hicks And His Hot Licks, The Kinks and Asleep At The Wheel is taking center stage. Vocalist Maryann Price leads her own jazz trio and is one half of the eclectic duo Ethyl’n Methyl, along with Asleep At The Wheel alumnus Chris O’Connell. $20. Corner Store, 900 South Carolina Ave. SE. 202-544-5807. cornerstorearts.org Liz Longley with Lisa-Marie Fischer and Jayme Salviati at Ebenezers. July 27, 7:3010:00 PM. $10. Ebenezers Coffeehouse, 201 F St. NE. 202-558-6900. ebenezerscoffeehouse.com Tiffany Thompson EP Release with The Mudpatch Kids at Ebenezers. July 28, 7:30-10:00 PM. Pay what you want. Ebenezers Coffeehouse, 201 F St. NE. 202-558-6900. ebenezerscoffeehouse.com Jerad Finck with Ken Yates and Matt Ryd at Ebenezers. Aug 3, 7:30-10:00 PM. $10. Ebenezers Coffeehouse, 201 F St. NE. 202-5586900. ebenezerscoffeehouse.com
THEATER AND FILM AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD Richard III at the Atlas. Through July 7. Ten actors take on 48 roles in William Shakespeare’s epic tale of power, ambition, and curses. Though England thinks its civil war has finally come to an end under the reign of King Edward IV, his youngestbrother, Richard, feels differently. Born a cripple and raised an outcast, Richard determines to make the crown his own. As Richard’s campaign of violence spins out of control, the powerless are left to pickup the pieces. One of Shakespeare’s earliest plays, Richard III contains impressive language and the theatrical boldness of a young playwright. $10-15. Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. 202-399-7993. natlasarts.org Ralph Alan Cohen on Blackfriars: “The Most Convenient Place”. July 9, 7:00 PM. Before it became synonymous with a theatre, The Blackfriars was a London precinct literally at the nexus of the City, the Church, and the Court. Its ideal location at the intersection of London’s two rivers and just minutes from St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Inns of Court made it prime real estate for the rich, while its status as a “liberty” of the city and a sanctuary from authority made it a favorite haunt of London’s non-conformists. Cohen looks at how the place and the playhouse mirrored one another and made the Blackfriars the place to be and the place be seen. Free. Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 E. Capitol St. SE. 202-544-4600. folger.edu Dream in a Bottle at the Atlas. July 14, 3:00 PM and 8:00 PM. A mixture of dance, lights and soul stirring spoken word, “Dream in a Bottle” is a production first of its kind. Dance numbers performed by Kenny for the King are
exhilarating to watch, his movements accompanied by music and spoken word are captivating to say the least. $15$20. Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. 202-3997993. natlasarts.org Dirty Barbie and Other Girlhood Tales. July 21, 8:00 PM; July 22, 4:00 PM. A return engagement of a hilarious, tragicomic and fearless performer. If you missed the show earlier this year, catch it now! Denise Stewart’s one-woman storytelling show explores the author’s strange southern childhood. With the help of her alter ego, Dirty Barbie, Denise puts the “fun” back in “dysfunctional”. $20. Corner Store, 900 South Carolina Ave. SE. 202-544-5807. cornerstorearts.org The Normal Heart at Arena. Through July 29. Fueled by love, anger, hope and pride, a circle of friends struggle to contain the mysterious disease ravaging New York’s gay community. Dismissed by politicians, frustrated by doctors and fighting with each other, their differences could tear them apart-or change the world. Arena Stage, 1101 6th St. SW. 202-488-3300. arenastage.org Taffety Punk: Readings from The Roaring Girl. July 30, 7:00 PM. Actors from Washington’s Taffety Punk Theatre Company present a staged dramatic reading of excerpts of The Roaring Girl, a bold, brilliant play by Thomas Middleton and Thomas Dekker. The play was first produced in 1611 and was restaged famously in the 1980s by the Royal Shakespeare Company. David Schalkwyk, Folger’s director of research, talks about why this “city comedy” reveals so much about Jacobean London. Free. Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 E. Capitol St. SE. 202-544-4600. folger.edu Mein Kampf at H Street Playhouse. July 7-Aug 19. Don’t miss Mein Kampfthe hilarious dark comedy about the young, fledgling painter Adolph Hitlerbefore he got into politics. $10-$25. H Street Playhouse, 1365 H St. NE. scenatheater.org
EXHIBITIONS AND CLASSES AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD Rosetta DeBerardinis Exhibition. Through July 8 (view by appointment). Opening June 2, 6:00-8:00 PM. Corner Store, 900 So. Carolina Ave. SE. 202544-5807. cornerstorearts.org Cuba Noche! Gallery Opening. July 14, 6:00 PM. Art show featuring photography by Shirley Fiske & Jonathan French. Tapas, mojitos & a Salsa Dance Party from 8:00 PM. Free. Corner Store, 900 South Carolina Ave. SE. 202-544-5807.
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cornerstorearts.org Assemblage Workshop at CHAW. July 21, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM. Using found objects supplied by both the participant and artist, students will learn how to create a narrative in a small space using art elements, how to attach/connect objects, and how to create various surface textures techniques. $80. CHAW, 545 7th St. SE. 202-547-6839. chaw.org Exhibition of Works by Jane Wynn. June 30-July 31. Jane Ann Wynn is an artist spanning a broad spectrum of media, notably assemblage, jewelry, sculpture, printmaking, drawing, painting, and photography. CHAW, 545 7th St. SE. 202-547-6839. chaw.org Open City: London, 1500–1700. Through Sept 30. Over the course of two centuries, London changed from the capital of England, secure within its medieval walls, to a metropolitan seat of empire. The city was shaped both by rapid population growth and natural disasters. Such events had a significant impact on the built environment, opening up spaces for repurposing. Open City explores activities and pressures that altered Londoners’ sense of community, focusing especially on three types of institutions that touched everyday lives: church, theater, and market. Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 E. Capitol St. SE. 202-544-4600. folger.edu
LITERARY EVENTS AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD Southeast Library Book Sale. July 14 (monthly on the 2nd Saturday), 10:00 AM-2:00 PM. 403 Seventh St. SE. 202698-3377. dclibrary.org/southeast Best Ribs Ever: 100 Killer Recipes Including Slaws, Baked Beans & Finger-Lickin’ Sauces. July 24, 11:30 AM. Steven Raichlen discusses his new book. Dining Room A, sixth floor, James Madison Building, Library of Congress. 202707-1205. loc.gov Francis Slakey Author Reading. July 26, 8:00 PM. In recognition of his adventures, he carried the Olympic Torch from the steps of the U.S. Capitol as part of the 2002 Olympic Games. In July of 2009 he became the first person to summit the highest mountain on every continent and surf every ocean, on a journey that completely changed him. His book “To The Last Breath” is an Amazon pick of the month and an Entertainment Weekly “Must” read. Free. Corner Store, 900 South Carolina Ave. SE. 202-544-5807. cornerstorearts.org Books That Shaped America Exhibition. Through Sept 29. Monday-Saturday, 8:30 AM-4:30 PM. The initial selection of “Books That Shaped America” will not be definitive; rather, it will mark the beginning of an ongoing recognition of culturally significant books from all genres of writing. Southwest Gallery,
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Check Out Our New Arrivals! on the second floor of the Library’s Thomas Jefferson Building, 10 First St. SE. loc.gov
MARKETS
Clothing, Jewelry, Gifts & Baby Fun
H Street FRESHFARM Market at New Location. Saturdays, 9 AM-noon. 1300 H St. NE. The market is a producersonly outdoor market offering fruit, vegetables, meats, baked goods, cheese, flowers and more for sale. freshfarmmarket.org
225 Penn. Ave. SE, Washington, DC H 202.548.0105 Mon.-Sat. 11-6, Thurs. 11-7 H Capitol South Metro
Farmers Market with Jazz and Blues at the Wharf. Thursdays, 6:00-8:30 PM. June 7, featuring Washington Jazz Ensemble; June 14, featuring Bill Heid Blues Band; June 21, featuring Arnold Sterling Jazz Ensemble; June 28, featuring Daryl Davis Band. 7th Street Landing at 7th and Water sts. SW. wharfdc.com Summer Sounds Artist Market at the Wharf. Fridays, 6:00-8:30 PM. June 8, featuring Loyd Dobler Effect (Pop/ Rock); June 15, featuring Johnstone (Reggae); June 22, featuring The Grandsons (Americana); June 29, featuring Wil Gravatt Band (Country). 7th Street Landing at 7th and Water sts. SW. wharfdc.com The Market at Miner. Every Sunday and second and third Saturday, 9:00 AM5:00 PM. Come join the Miner Elementary School PTO-a great opportunity to support a neighborhood school! Recent offerings have included fresh produce, great deals on collectibles, jewelry, baked goods, quality clothing, wood carvings, toys, natural body products and cosmetics, and much more. New vendors are welcome. 601 15th St. NE. For information, contact Omowali Sia, 240-464-0268. NOMA Farmers Market. Wednesdays, through Oct 31, 3:00-7:00 PM. 1200 First St., NE. nomabid.org Eastern Market. Daily except Mondays and important holidays. Weekdays, 7:00 AM-7:00 PM; Saturdays, 7:00 AM-5:00 PM; Sundays, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. Flea market and arts and crafts market open Saturdays and Sundays, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM. Eastern Market is Washington’s last continually operated “old world” market. On weekends the market area comes alive with farmers bringing in fresh produce, craft and flower vendors, artists, a flea market and street musicians. 200 block of 7th St. SE. 202-6985253. easternmarket-dc.com 9th and U Flea Market. Saturdays and Sundays, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. 9th and U sts. NW. Dupont Circle Farmers Market. Sundays year round (rain or shine), 9:00 AM-1:00 PM. The Wall Street Journal and The Financial Times of London named the market one of the top farmers’ markets in the country. During the
THURS., JULY12 – SAT., JULY 14 • 40% off DO NOT SIT, TUES., JULY 17 – SAT., JULY 21 • 25% off STAY, HEAL! TUES., JULY 24 – SAT., JULY 28 • 40% off TUES., JULY 31 • 50% off ISABELLE BARKS “RACE YOUR TAIL 225 Penn. Ave. SE, Washington, DC H 202.548.0105 H OFF TO THE Mon.-Sat. 11-6, Thurs. 11-7 BIG ANNUAL Capitol South Metro
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Do you want to do business with DC government? ¿Quiere hacer negocios con el gobierno de DC?
DSLBD Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) Orientation DSLBD Taller de Certificación de Negocios en Español - (CBE) Save the Dates Thursday, July 5 Thursday, Aug 16
Guarde la Fecha
1:30 - 3:30pm 6:00 - 8:00pm
Jueves, Julio 5 Jueves, Agosto 16
1:30 - 3:30pm 6:00 - 8:00pm
Learn about CBE Certification and how to get preferred contracting opportunities with DC government. Participation in this workshop is a mandatory requirement to apply for this program. Aprenda sobre el programa CBE (Certified Business Enterprise) y las oportunidades de selección y contratación con el gobierno de DC. Participar en este seminario es un requisito para obtener esta certificación.
One Judiciary Square • 441 4th Street NW - Room 1107S • WDC Directions/Direcciones: Take Metro's Red Line Train to Judiciary Square. Metro Linea Roja, estación Judiciary Square.
RSVP: 202.728.0352 or www.gwhcc.org
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peak season, there are more than 30 farmers offering fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, cheeses, fruit pies, breads, fresh pasta, cut flowers, potted plants, soaps and herbal products. 20th St. and Mass. Ave. NW, 1500 block of 20th St. NW (between Mass. Ave. and Q St. in the adjacent parking lot of PNC Bank). 202-362-8889. freshfarmmarket.org Georgetown Flea Market. Sundays year around (except in the case of very inclement weather), 8:00 AM- 4:00 PM. The crowd is as diverse as the items for sale! Antiques, collectibles, art, furniture, rugs, pottery, china, jewelry, silver, stained glass, books and photographs are an example of the available items. 1819 35th St. NW. 202-775-3532. or georgetownfleamarket.com
SPORTS, DANCE AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Nats Baseball. July 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 31; Aug 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. $5, up. Nationals Park. 202-6756287. washington.nationals.mlb.com National’s Ballpark Tours. WednesdaySunday (non-game days), 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM. On day of night-time home games, tours at 10:30 AM. Take the Nationals Park Ballpark Tour for a behind-the-scenes look at Nationals Park. Over the course of an hour and fifteen minutes you will visit the PNC Diamond Club, the Lexus Presidents Club, the Stars & Stripes Club, luxury suites, the Shirley Povich Media Center, Nationals dugout and Nationals clubhouse. Throw a pitch in the Nationals bullpen. $12$15. All proceeds from Nationals Park Tours will be donated to the Nationals Dream Foundation. washington.nationals.mlb.com Washington Mystics Basketball. July 1, 6 and 10. $17, up. Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. wnba.com
Summer Specials at
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Experience Yoga Nidra. July 7, 4:005:30 PM. Pamela Wilson guides a very deep, conscious relaxation, with the opportunity to set your intention. No experience in Yoga or meditation necessary. $10. Westminster “Jazz” Church, 400 I St. SW. 202-746-6654 Body Wise Dance at Hill Center. 2D/3D Dance, Mondays, July 9, 16 and 23, 9:1510:45 AM. Move Learn Create, Wednesdays, July 11, 18 and 25, 9:15-10:45 AM. Good Old Days of Dance, Thursdays, July 12, 19 and 26, 7:00-8:30 PM. Pick and choose or try all three. $60 for one course, $100 for two and $120 for all three. Register at hillcenterdc.org. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. bodywisedance.com DC United Soccer Home Match. July 28, 6:00 PM. vs. Juventus. $23-$52. RFK Stadium. 202-587-5000. dcunited.com
Waterfront Workouts at the Wharf. Saturdays, 9:00-11:00 AM. Yala Fitness at 9:00 AM and Flow Yoga at 10:00 AM. 7th Street Landing at 7th and Water sts. SW. wharfdc.com Workouts at Corner Store. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30-9:30 AM. The Morning Workout blends dance and pilates for a full body strength and flexibility workout. The instructor is Roberta Rothstein, with occasional substitutes. Wednesdays, 11:30 AM-12:30 PM. Gentle Pilates with Katherine Richardson features a classic Pilates mat workout. No pre-registration. Strictly walk-in. $10. Corner Store, 900 So. Carolina Ave. SE. 202-544-5807. cornerstorearts.org 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 WallsKaufman, a Capitol Hill chiropractor, conducts this class every Saturday morning. Please dress comfortably. Free. E. Capitol St. between 11th and 13th sts. 202-544-6035. Pick-up Field Hockey on the Mall. Every Monday at 6:00 PM. Meets at the fields in front of the Smithsonian Metro stop for males and females who have a passion for field hockey. No experience necessary. Bring water, shinguards, mouthguard, cleats, a field hockey stick, and either a reversible jersey or a light and dark shirt - no grays please. Free. Roller Skating at Anacostia Park. Skate weekends, sunrise to sunset. This is a covered, outdoor skating pavilion. Free. One-hour free skate “rental” has started but sizes and supplies are limited. During summer months, open daily. Go east on Penn. Ave. across Anacostia River and make the first right turn onto Fairlawn Ave. and another right onto Nicholson and then into the park. 202472-3873. Free public tennis courts in Ward Six. King Greenleaf Recreation Center, 201 N St. SW; Garfield Park, Third and G sts. SE; Randall Park First and I sts. SW; Rosedale Recreation Center, 1701 Gales St. NE; Sherwood Recreation Center, 640 10th St. NE. All courts are open daily, dawn to dusk. Some are lighted for extended evening play. Courts are available on a first-come, first-served basis for one-hour intervals; extended use of tennis courts requires a permit. Proper shoes and attire is required. 202-671-0314. dpr.dc.gov/dpr Rumsey (indoor) Pool. Public swim, Monday-Friday, 6:30-9:00 AM; 1:005:00 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
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www.jackiev.com
A Z A L P E N I L Y K SMiles to Downtown DC
Rosedale Pool. Open daily except Wednesdays; weekdays 1:00-8:00 PM; Saturdays and Sundays, noon-6:00 PM. 1701 Gales St. NE. 202-727-6521. dpr. dc.gov/dpr
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East Potomac Pool. Open daily except Wednesdays; weekdays, 1:00-8:00 PM; Saturdays and Sundays, noon-6:00 PM. 972 Ohio Dr. SW. 202-727-6523. dpr. dc.gov/dpr Randall Pool. Open daily except Mondays; weekdays, 1:00-8:00 PM; Saturdays and Sundays, noon-6:00 PM. South Capitol and I Sts. SW. 202-727-1420. dpr.dc.gov/dpr Capitol Hill Group Ministry’s Annual “Hope for the Homeless” Golf Tournament. Save the date. Sept. 24. $125 ($575 for a foresome) before July 31. Bay Hills Golf Club, Arnold, MD. 202544-0631. capitolhillgroupministry.org
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Return to Lisner HIV/AIDS Forum. July 24, 7:00 PM. Whitman-Walker Health will host a forum on the current state of HIV/AIDS. “Return to Lisner” will be held in the same venue as DC’s first HIV/AIDS forum on April 4, 1983. The forum is free admission, but registration is required at whitman-walker.org/ returntolisner. Lisner Auditorium, 730 21st St. NW. Community Office Hours with Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Wells. First Thursday in Southwest at Channel Inn; third Thursday on H St. NE at Sova; fourth Thursday in Shaw. Please call the councilmember’s office for Shaw location as it varies. 8-9:30 AM. All Ward 6 residents encouraged to come out and meet with Councilmember Wells and members of his staff. 202-724-8072. tommywells.org Congresswoman Norton’s NW District Office. Open weekdays, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM. 529 14th St. NW. 202-783-5065. norton.house.gov ANC 6A. Second Thursday, 7:00 PM. Meeting at Miner Elementary School, 601 15th St. NE. 202-423-8868. anc6a.org ANC 6B. Second Tuesday, 7:00 PM. Meeting at Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-543-3344. anc6b.org ANC 6C. Second Wednesday, 7:00 PM. Meeting at Heritage Foundation, 214 Mass. Ave. NE, first floor conference room. 202-547-7168. anc6c.org
Allegiance
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ANC 6D. Second Monday, 7:00 PM. Meeting at 1100 4th St. SW, DCRA meeting room, 2nd floor. 202-554-1795. anc6d.org H
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best photo
Romeo in window. by Philip Yabut Congratulations to the winners of the Best Photo category. Our judges admired the artistic quality of these shots and their ability to create a mood and story in the viewer’s mind. On the following pages are the winners of our other categories. Thanks to all who participated.
place Yankee. by Jessica Murphy
show
John & Kayla. by Danielle Sigmon capitalcommunitynews.com H 27
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best dog Cooper. man by Brian Huse
place
Jelly. by Sid & Anne Iy
er
show
Roscoe. by Victor Romero
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. Trader Joe atham by Matt L
honorable mention
Liston. by Anne Russell Thompson
H St HaS a Solution
for all your pet needS.
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best cat
Diddit. by Marcia Auberger
place
Lt. Dan. by Christina Fe rrari
show
Stellaluna. by Jen Kern
honorable mention Rudy Patootie. by Faye Singer
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Bring in this add and receive $5 OFF purchase of $50 or more.a
(formerly Chateau Animaux) – UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP & MANAGEMENT! Come see the changes we made! More room to shop! More Food and Supplies to Choose From!
Now carrying Honest Kitchen, Dr. Harvey’s, Orijin, Acana, Petcurean NOW!, Nutrisca, Natures Variety, Natural Balance LID, Fromm, Earthborn Holistic and many, many more! Pet Food • Raw Dog & Cat Food • Raw Bones • Supplies • Dog Bakery • Self Serve Dog Wash Grooming 7 days a week • Weekly Adoption Events • Loyalty Programs
www.howltothechief.com 733 8th Street SE • 202-544-8710
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best
by Amy Wall
place
Teddy Bear by Michael M igliori
show
Griffin. estbrook by Thomas W
Mati and Thatcher. by Deborah Hooker Dexter. by Samantha Harding
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honorable mention
Capitol Hill Animal Clinic 1240 Pennsylvania Ave. SE
202-546-1972
capitolhillanimalclinic.com Monday-Wednesday: 8 AM to 6 PM Thursdays: Hours by appointment only
Friday: 8 AM to 7 PM Saturday: 8 AM to 12 Noon "Flea and Tick Seasons have started. It's always intestinal parasite season for your outdoor pets. Yearround heartworm prevention is recommended for all dogs and all outdoor cats. Please make sure all your pets (dogs and cats, indoors and outdoors) are on HEARTWORM PREVENTATIVE. Ask us if your not sure what to give! And when to give it! Remember the word "PLUS" doesn't always mean heartworm prevention!"
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best
Happy Cat. by Ruthcarol Touhey
place
y Rudy and Luc ce by Victor Prin
show
Gus. by Alicia Robinson-Morgan
honorable mention The Nose by Jack Stein
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7330 Carroll Avenue, Takoma Park, Maryland 20912 • Veterinary Housecalls Dogs & Cats • Hospice • In-Home Euthanasia • Vaccinations • Wellness Care • Acupuncture and Holistic Medicine • and more
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2 0 1 2
best
Roxanne and Tonk. by Robin Jones
place
Charlie by Denise Ferench
ick
show
Political. cott by Kimberly S
Checkers. by John Ogden
honorable mention Fuzzy Bear. by Patricia Leitner 36 H HillRag | July 2012
Rural Dog Rescue Save A Life – Adopt.
Volunteers & Fosters Needed. Rural Dog Rescue is a non-profit organization whose mission is to save the lives of dogs in high kill shelters that usually have an euthanasia rate of 80% or higher. Stray dogs can be euthanized after 72 hours and owner surrenders can be euthanized immediately if the shelter is full. Most of these dogs’ lives depend on rescues to save them from a certain death. Owner surrenders in these areas are high - as are the alarming number of pets that are not spayed or neutered.
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Meet Our Dogs on The Hill! Adoption Saturdays, Noon to 3 PM At Howl to the Chief
www.howltothechief.com 733 8th Street SE 202-544-8710 capitalcommunitynews.com H 37
2 0 1 2
best “I’ll have the duck with a side of stuffing.” by Jeremy Bailey
place Sullivan. “Single, grey & white, dist inguished male seeks fluffy and full female fe line for naps, bird watching an d companionship ” by Jennifer Frits chi
show
d the big
The terrier is Augie an dog is Jack. “Battle of the Alphas” by Amanda Stulz
honorable mention 38 H HillRag | July 2012
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2 0 1 2
best
g. HarleySleepin y by Kelly Mallo
place Shamus. by Karen Zens
show
Cagney. by Bonny King-Taylor 40 H HillRag | July 2012
honorable mention
Bud. by Pat M
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Janice Beth Arnold Hochwald Smith b. 12/30/1949, d. 06/25/2012 Janice Beth Arnold passed away in her sleep, after long illness, brought on by End Stage Renal Failure. Survived by her husband, Aaron W. Smith, and her two sons, Brandon Lee, and Christopher Charles; brothers, Hawk St. John, and Steven Hochwald, and her mother, Elaine Hochwald. Per her wishes, there will be no services, no burial, no wake. If you would like to honor her memory, take the time every day, to tell the one you love, how important they are to you, and tell them that you love them, the first thing every morning, and the last thing, every night. She did. If you have found a smile that is the sweetest one you’ve known, If you have heard, within a voice, the echoes of your own, If you have felt a touch that stirs the longings of your heart, And still can feel that closeness in the moments you’re apart, If you have filled with wonder at the way two lives can blend To weave a perfect pattern that is seamless, end to end, If you believe some things in life are simply meant to be, Then you have found your soul mate, your heart’s own destiny.
Janice Beth Arnold Hochwald Smith is survived by her husband, Aaron Wainwright Smith.
capitalcommunitynews.com H 41
2 0 1 2
best
elissa Kimball
uster. by M Chance and B
show
Atley and Carolina the Hound. by Lyndsey Medsker
place Deemo. by Maurice George
by Colle
en Rich
honorable mention Mustang (cat) & Oscar. by Rikki Schmidle 42 H HillRag | July 2012
best
Leyna, Wolfgang, and John. by Paul McGlyn
Stella, Zuc
place
a and Ken tucky (Tu cky). by Angelo Miranda
show
er, Lucy. Miles with sist midle by Pamela Sch
honorable mention Jenka and Mati. by Kate Kahan capitalcommunitynews.com H 43
2 0 1 2
Budy and Elizabeth. by Elizabeth Latham
Jeter by Hayden Aaronson
Kayla by John Sigmon
Harrison Enjoying Kingsman with Max and CC. by Sara Walder
Deemo. by Schannon Keller
Mika by Vishal Doshi
Peche by Vivian Ault 44 H HillRag | July 2012
Jazzmyn, Crumpet, Puppy, Ruby and Callie. by Nan Raphael
Raja and Lakshmi by Caroline Angelo
Hugo. by Jacquie Toppings
This new catagory in our Pet Photo Contest highlights pets as they enjoy living on Capitol Hill: roaming the parks, joining us as we exercise, taking in the sights.
Holly by Shauna Fountain
Pam and Millie. by Pamela Detrow
Mocha by John Collins
Fannie by Christina Brown capitalcommunitynews.com H 45
2 0 1 2
Parks and Rex
Knowing and Understanding Proper Dog Walking and Dog Park Etiquette
T
by Christopher A Miller, DVM
here is nothing better than prevent any embarrassing “faux paws” seeing the excitement on when venturing outside. your dog’s face when reaching for the leash before heading off Tips for the Dog Walk for a walk. Whether you are headed Step 1 - Dog parks aren’t for evto Congressional Cemetery, King- eryone. We love our pets, and this man Field, Lincoln Park or maybe can often skew our perception of our just a stroll down the streets to our dog’s behavior or health. It is imporNation’s Capitol, our dogs could care tant to have realistic expectations less about the destination. This is when headed to the dog park. If your their chance to see other dogs, chase squirrels, and smell everything that they possibly can. Dogs are natural explorers and, most importantly, very social animals. Any dog trainer will tell you that the dog walk can be one of the healthiest activities for your dog’s body and mind. While it is important to make sure your dog gets out for exercise and mental stimulation, it is also important to know how to behave and interact with other dogs and pet owners. Most all dog owners have experienced an unruly, unattended or aggressive dog while on a walk or at a park. Knowing how to react to and avoid these situations can be crucial to keeping your dog safe Don’t mess with me. hoto: Andrew Lightman. and happy. The most important first steps to understanding dog walking dog is consistently finding itself in etiquette are to know your dog and aggressive skirmishes, you may need know your destination. Going on a to reevaluate his or her obedience walk with a super anxious or very ag- level. Working with a trainer or atgressive dog can obviously end poor- tending training classes can help asly. Having a dog with either of these sess how dog-park-ready your pet is. personalities doesn’t condemn them Only healthy dogs should vento a life inside, but preparing for how ture into the park. Signs such as your pet reacts in a given situation vomiting, diarrhea, eye discharge, and avoiding these scenarios are key. coughing, sneezing and oral papilA great way to assess your dog’s per- lomas (small, fuzzy, white to tan colsonality is to involve a reputable dog ored growths in your dog’s mouth) trainer. Heather Morris from Spot could be caused by infectious disease On Training has some great tips to that can spread to other dogs. Most 46 H HillRag | July 2012
veterinarians recommend annual fecal tests, appropriate vaccinations and monthly parasite preventatives if you plan on socializing you dog. If your dog has mobility problems such as lameness, arthritis, or a temporary splint or cast, you should consult your veterinarian before romping around with the other dogs. If you are suspicious that you
dog is sick, take them on a leashed walk away from other animals and assess how they feel (or contact your veterinarian) before proceeding to the park. Step 2 - Know the difference between a public park where pets should be leashed and dog parks where pets are allowed off leash in a fenced in area. I’m sure this will likely cause many Lincoln Park and Stanton Park dwellers to roll their eyes as they think “my dog will never run into the
street” or “Fido isn’t aggressive and would never hurt a fly.” Dogs are all too often hit by cars in the District, and for this reason it is not recommended to have your pet off leash in a non-fenced-in area. Even the best behaved dog can get distracted and not heed an owner’s voice command. Traffic accidents are never planned and can easily be avoided. You may have the sweetest dog in the District, but at the end of the day you cannot control other dog’s behavior. Be aware of the other pets around you and know that there is risk of conflict when dogs are off leash. Some dog’s that are perfectly “people friendly” can still be dog aggressive. And some dog’s that love dog’s their own size will suddenly turn aggressive with a larger or smaller animal. Heather recommends avoiding conflict by limiting your time at dog parks. We often feel guilty for leaving our dogs at work and try to overcompensate by letting our dogs play for too long. Causing dogs to be overstimulated for too long can often result in tantrums. She suggests encouraging your dog to come check in periodically to keep a pulse on how things are going and to try leaving 10 minutes earlier than you anticipated. Not to be forgotten, it is also against local law to have your dog off leash. It pays to be mindful of this and thus avoid the occasional “sting” operation by The National Park Service or DCPD causing dogs and dog’s owners to scatter like a raid on a 1920’s speakeasy. Step 3 - Know what to do if a fight breaks out. Stay calm and try to
break up the fight using voice commands if possible. Too often, owners who bring their pets that have been in a fight come in with wounds of their own. A good technique is to have each owner grab their dog by the back legs and slowly back away. Once free, turn in slow circles so that your pet doesn’t turn to bite you. This can happen because with adrenaline coursing and in the heat of the moment dogs get confused and will snap and bite at their owners. Much like a fender bender, information should be exchanged between the two owners, especially if there is obvious need for medical attention. Both dogs vaccine status will help a veterinarian make decisions about medical treatment, boostering vaccines, and notifying animal control if indicated. Any pets or humans that suffer puncture wounds should seek medical attention as infection or nasty abscesses could result if not treated properly. Whoever said that a dog’s mouth is cleaner than a human’s has obviously never seen a bite wound abscess. The rewards of taking our dogs on walks and to the dog park heavily outweigh the risks. Minimizing these hazards are the keys to making the streets of Capitol Hill and surrounding dog parks the perfect place for enjoying our dogs. Both Dr. Antkowiak and Dr. Miller reside in Capitol Hill and are the owners of AtlasVet (the Atlas District Veterinary Hospital) at 1326 H St. NE (www. atlasvetdc.com, www.facebook.com/atlasvetdc) Dr. Antkowiak is a graduate of the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine and has been an emergency veterinarian at VCA SouthPaws Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Center for 15 years. Dr. Miller is a graduate of the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine and was 2011 Caring Hands Arlington Doctor of the Year. H
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Capitol Streets HillBuzz
Building the Hill
The Edwards Family and the Buildings They Improved
W
by Robert Pohl
hen reading about Capitol Hill history, it is easy to forget that behind all those real estate investors, contractors, and developers, there are a huge number of carpenters and other workers who do the actual work. Some of them have been working on the Hill for decades, and have had a hand in numerous buildings that make the Hill such a special Selvan Edwards in front of Mr. Henry’s. Photos: Robert Pohl place. One of those who has worked here for of his family have used their expermost of his life is Selvan Edwards. tise to make sure that the houses and His father, EC (Eddie) Edwards was institutions on the Hill are solid and the first in the family to work here, look their very best. and, over the years, three generations
“friendly, unpresuming” presence of “Mr. Henry” himself, Henry Yaffe. The interior of the bar, which was compared to that of “third street bar,” is where Edwards and his family added their craftsmanship. Henry Yaffe was already a Hill fixture long before he opened his bar. He had moved to DC from Baltimore, and in 1959 received his real estate license. Yaffe soon expanded out of simple sales, and began renovating houses on the Hill. To do so, he hired E.C. Edwards, and Edwards turned around and signed up members of his family, including his father, Spencer Barnes, Sr, and – later – his sons.
Mr. Henry’s
Edwards at the bar he helped build
Mr. Henry’s has been a Hill institution for almost 50 years. It opened without much fanfare in the late summer of 1966, and a few weeks later, William Rice of the Washington Post dropped by and found a “first-rate bar-pub.” It was an immediate hit, and was soon filled with a “happy, chatty crowd.” Rice allowed that this was because of the
Edwards pointing out a detail at the Frederick Douglass House capitalcommunitynews.com H 49
Roberta Flack was a local teacher when she launched her international singing career at Mr. Henry’s. (Roland Godefroy)
Thus when Yaffe turned to opening up bars, he hired Edwards and his crew to do the work necessary to convert the old building into a bar. Selvan, who was a teenager at the time, remembers how he helped do the woodwork for the bar, and how he and his twin brother, Melvan, assisted their father “taking out hammers, handing him nails, sorting out tools.” The most important contribution came from Selvan’s grandfather, who habitually referred to Yaffe not as “Henry” or “Mr. Yaffe,” as others did, but felt that “Mr. Henry” was the appropriate way to address him. The name stuck, and Yaffe felt it was exactly the kind of name that should grace his new business. The Edwards’s family work continued even after the bar had opened, when they repaired a series of train station benches, and then installed them in the upstairs of Mr. Henry’s. This was where Roberta Flack – who was a teacher at Selvan’s school – sang, and from where she launched her career.
African Art Museum
Another favorite customer of the Edwards family was Warren Robbins. In the late 1950s, Rob50 H HillRag | July 2012
bins was a foreign service official in Hamburg, Germany, when he had come across a store selling African art. Though Robbins had never been to Africa, he immediately fell in love with the artwork from there, and by the time he returned to the United States, owned a significant collection thereof. Robbins moved onto Capitol Hill in the early 1960s, and turned his house at 530 6th Street SE into a museum. Edwards and his family did some work there, but the real job they did for him came later in the decade, after he bought Frederick Douglass’s old house at 316 A Street NE. In 1964, it opened as the African Art Museum, and as the collection grew, so did the building: Robbins bought the house next door and had the Edwards family connect the two to make for more exhibition space. By now, Selvan and Melvan were fully part of the operation and worked alongside their father and grandfather to complete the work. The only difficulty people had with them was keeping track of which twin was which. Close observers noted that you could tell them apart by watching them
write: Melvan wrote with his right hand, while Selvan was a leftie.
The Old Naval Hospital and Other Projects
The Edwards family worked on many projects, both large and small, including putting an A/C system into the Old Naval Hospital. They were also responsible for converting what had previously been Brinkley’s Bar, a notorious 8th Street dive bar, into a respectable print shop. By the time the work was done, the bar had been closed for “quite some time.” Another renovation job that attracted some attention was the conversion of the Waters Organ Factory on 10th Street SE into a loft. A New York Times article from 1969 praises the work done inside, particularly the effect of the 26-foot ceilings in the living room, with a balcony running along two sides. Also noted are the exposed brick walls, and pine ceilings “with dark beams” which “contrast nicely with the elegant, velvet-covered furniture.” They also converted what had been a funeral home into what is today Frame of Mine. Today the Brinkley’s Bar location houses the Duron Paint shop, the Organ Factory has changed hands numerous times, the African Art museum has moved to the Mall–and the original building has been converted to a museum dedicated to Frederick Douglass. But the Edwards family, now augmented by two further sons, Timothy and Reynaldo, who were born during the 60s, continues to work on the Hill. And one evening when you’re having a quiet beer and burger at Mr. Henry’s, the guy next to you at the bar may be Selvan Edwards, who helped turn the space into one of Capitol Hill’s favorite meeting places. H
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bulletin board Kim’s Garden “Five Hundred for the Fence” Campaign
Friends of Kim’s Garden must raise at least $5000 this summer to fund the historic reproduction iron fence that will protect future plantings. They are looking for people to agree to raise “Five Hundred for the Fence” by soliciting a total of $500 in pledges from friends, neighbors or businesses (or if you’d prefer, pledge $500 yourself ). Donations are tax-deductible; make checks to “Friends of Kim Brenegar.” For more information, contact Kim’s Garden Steering Committee member Carmella Mazzotta at carmellamazzotta@gmail.com, call 202-374-3054 or got to kimsgardendc.blogspot.com” for more information..
Hill Center Honored for Excellence in Historic Preservation
On June 21, Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital was honored with the Chairman’s Award of Excellence in
Historic Preservation for distinctive renovation of one of Capitol Hill’s most historic landmarks, the Old Naval Hospital at 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. Renovation of the 1866 Civil-War Era building rescued the Old Naval Hospital from the near-structural ruin of a decade ago to become a vibrant home for culture, education, and city life on Capitol Hill at its opening in October 2011. The team for this award-winning project includes: The Old Naval Hospital Foundation, BELL Architects PC, Regan Associates LLC, The WhitingTurner Contracting Company, Robert Silman Associates, Grotheer & Company, Oehme, van Sweden & Associates and Nixon Peabody LLP. The Chairman’s Award also recognizes the Friends of the Old Naval Hospital, whose early advocacy and education campaign generated city and Capitol Hill community action. The District of Columbia Historic Preservation Office/Office of Planning presented Hill Center with one of the 18 awards to
On June 16, Councilmember Tommy Wells joined Southwest residents and representatives from the Washington Kastles, and the US Tennis Association (USTA) in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for three refurbished Jefferson Field tennis courts at Ninth & G sts. SW. The tennis courts were restored to usage by a grant from the USTA and American Express. Photo: Richard Westbrook
individuals, businesses, and local organizations for exemplary work and commitment to historic preservation, adaptive use, affordable housing, publications and stewardship. HillCenterDC.org
Season Ten at H Street Playhouse
Theater Alliance proudly announces its ambitious Season Ten, which will also be its final season at the H Street Playhouse. This line-up will include a World Premiere by a DC-based playwright, a co-production with The HUB Theatre, and a special limited performance by acclaimed spokenword performer Marc Bamuthi Joseph, co-presented with The Atlas Performing Arts Center. At this time, they do not have a plan for their location after
LEFT: Doug Delano of Level Green landscaping donates a truckload of mulch for the Kim’s Garden 2012 Spring Clean-up. RIGHT: Christ Our Shepherd Church is visible through bare winter branches, while daffodils are in full bloom at Kim’s Garden in March. Photos: Kim Matthews 52 H HillRag | July 2012
Playhouse closes its doors in January. Season Ten features: REALS at H Street Playhouse. Aug 27-Sept 16. The District’s own Batman of the Beltway was just the tip of the iceberg. Welcome to the world of real life people (aka “Reals”) who dress up in disguises and fight crime. Black Nativity at the Atlas. Nov 27-Jan 7. After a recordbreaking run in Season Nine, Black Nativity returns to Theater Alliance for its fourth holiday season. Wonderful Life at H Street Playhouse. Nov 30Dec 30. George Bailey’s struggle to understand his own worth and grasp why life is worth living finds fresh life in this enchanting one-person retelling of Frank Capra’s classic story. The Night Before Christmas at H Street Playhouse. Nov 30-Dec 30. As the holiday season rapidly explodes into red-nosed Santas, singing angels, and frosty snowmen, Theater Alliance delivers “a wicked little comedy to warm the cockles of your heart.” Word Becomes Flesh at the Atlas. Mar 22-24. Bay-area based Marc Bamuthi Joseph is a highly decorated artist with honors spanning the cultural arts and entertainment industry. Through spoken word, dance, djing, and visuals, a talented collective of performers delivers audiences a seires of performed letters spanning a nine month period reflecting a young single father’s thoughts and emotions in anticipation of an unborn son. Subscriptions and single tickets are available for purchase online at theateralliance.com or over the
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erfront. The Lumber Shed, a historically protected, former Navy Yard industrial building, is undergoing an adaptive reuse transformation that will result in the creation of a 30,000 SF, two”level, glass pavilion with several sit”down restaurants on the ground floor and office space on its upper level. The Yards is a development of Forest City Washington. forestcity.net
Arial photograph showing the complexity of the 11th Street Bridge Project. Photo: DDOT
phone at 202-241-2539.
New 11th Street Local Bridge Now Open
The new 11th Street Local Bridge has opened in an interim condition to provide a direct connection between Historic Anacostia and the Capitol Hill/Navy Yard area. With the opening of the new local bridge and the additional new ramps that are scheduled to open over the next several weeks, there are significant changes for local and commuter traffic crossing the Anacostia River. In the local bridge’s interim condition, there will be 2 lanes for inbound traffic and 1 lane for outbound traffic towards Anacostia. There will also be a temporary 6-foot separated walkway for pedestrians and cyclists. The existing 13th Street ramp, which currently provides access from Good Hope Rd. to the inbound 11th Street Freeway Bridge (I-695 WB), will close permanently. All inbound traffic from Anacostia will be directed to the intersection of Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave. and Good Hope Rd. SE where motorists will access the new inbound 11th St. corridor. For more information about this work or the 11th Street Bridge Project, contact DDOT Deputy Chief Engineer Ravindra Ganvir at 202-359-6948 or visit AnacostiaWaterfront. org/11thStreetBridge
Kingman Park Community Outline Key Needs for RFK Northern Lots
On May 19, about 25 neighbors and community leaders participated in a design session intended to ensure that proposals for the RFK north parking lot are consistent with community needs. Many new ideas were discussed and consensus was formed in many areas. To view details, visit capitolriverside.org. The Capital Riverside vision is one of green waterfront space near RFK Stadium that will be a gathering place for youth and adult sports. The vision calls upon the DC government to act upon the National Capital Planning Commission’s recommendations to include active recreational facilities as part of the RFK site plan. This plan can alleviate the overcrowding on existing nearby fields, can support existing activities, such as the Farmer’s Market, and can make the area a destination for those that want to exercise, enjoy the waterfront, bike, or hike on Kingman Island. Re-claiming this area as usable space also helps solve the storm water runoff issues that are associated with the existing parking lots. Capitol Riverside will incorporate green designincluding several solar community gardens.
Construction Begins on the Lumber Shed
Construction has begun on the Lumber Shed, the latest component to be developed at The Yards, the 5.5 million SF redevelopment of the former Navy Yard property near the Nationals’ ballpark at the Capitol Riv54 H HillRag | July 2012
Rendering of the Lumber Shed which will be host to five restaurants on the Capitol Riverfront.
Eco-Solutions from the US to the Middle East at Hill Center
Twenty environmental leaders from Jordan, Gaza and the West Bank will conclude their fiveweek journey throughout the US-from Hawaii to the Rocky Mountains to DC-in search of solutions to collective environmental challenges. Join them on this special evening where these leaders will share their findings with the DC community. What does the fight for Hawaii’s endemic birds mean for birds in Amman? How are the Dead Sea and Lake Mead similar? What environmental justice struggles in the US parallel those in their neighborhoods? And what can they teach US environmental leaders, young and old, about resilience, how to persist against the odds and how to create a positive eco-tipping point in their community? Join them for an inspiring evening of environmental stories and conversation. Free. Wednesday, July 25, 7:00-8:00 p.m., Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org
Follow the Anacostia Waterfront Initiative Like Never Before
Signs of the Anacostia Waterfront Initiative’s progress in creating a world-class waterfront in the District of Columbia are all around, but now anyone can follow that progress like never before at anacostiawaterfront.org. The latest information about new bridges, trails and other transportation improvements that are helping to drive a renaissance of the Anacostia River and surrounding neighborhoods is only a few clicks away. The District Department of Transportation launched the new site to better inform the public about the important roles its infrastructure projects and partnerships are playing in the rebirth of the waterfront. All Anacostia Waterfront Initiative projects and program benefits are profiled with descriptions, photos, drawings, maps, plans and other information at anacostiawaterfront.org, along with current news, upcoming events, frequently asked questions and employment opportunities.
Stocking the Fridge at The Fridge
Notable Washington, DC art couple Dana Ellyn and Matt Sesow are keeping it local with their latest exhibition Stocking The Fridge. Dana and Matt’s whimsical, politically charged, and allegorically satirical paintings will fill The Fridge, floor to ceiling, with reasonably priced, brilliantly executed work. Dana’s internationally collected paintings embody a fearless, self-exploratory portrait of modernity. Her sly humor and painterly
skill entice the viewer to reinterpret our contemporary zeitgeist. Matt’s widely collected paintings have been an influential component of the Outsider and Folk Art movements world-wide since 1995. July 7-29. Opening recption, July 7, 7:00-11:00 p.m. Gallery closed Monday–Wednesday; open Thursday–Saturday, noon–8:00 p.m.; open Sunday, 1:00-5:00 p.m. The Fridge, 516 1/2 8th St. SE. 202-664-4151. thefridgedc.com
DDOT Selects Design-Build Team to Complete H Street/ Benning Road Streetcar Line
DDOT has selected the team of Dean-Facchina LLC to complete the design and construction of the District’s first modern streetcar line along H St. and Benning Rd. NE. The proposed contract has been sent to the Council for review and approval. Dean-Facchina will be responsible for the design and construction of the western and eastern termini of the streetcar line, the overhead catenary power system, and the Car Barn/Training Center at Benning Rd. and 26th St. NE. dcstreetcar.com
Gallaudet University Board of Trustees Approves the University’s 2022 Campus Plan
The campus plan is expected to be submitted to the District of Columbia Zoning Commission this summer and articulates the university’s vision for the campus and provides guidance for the physical development of campus facilities. The goals of the 2022 campus plan are to plan for a growth in enrollment, increase and enhance on-campus housing, revitalize the heart of the campus and increase density, integrate physical accessibility and sustainability, and to build new connections with the local community. Highlights of the plan include: Renovation of three historic campus buildings which are part of the Gallaudet College Historic District, a U.S. National Historic Landmark district; crecapitalcommunitynews.com H 55
DEPARTMENT OF SMALL AND LOCAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Extension Of The Term Of The Capitol Hill Business Improvement District Notice is hereby given that, pursuant to section 18 of the Business Improvement Districts Act of 1996, D.C. Official Code § 2-1215.18, the Department of Small and Local Business Development on behalf of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development will hold a public hearing to determine whether to approve the request by the Capitol Hill Business Improvement District (BID) to extend the term of the BID for another 5 years. The current term of the Capitol Hill BID will expire September 30, 2012. If the request for extension is granted, the new term will expire on September 30, 2017. The hearing will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 12, 2012 in Room 123 of the John A. Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC. This public hearing is being conducted to inform citizens about the application to extend the term of the Capitol Hill Business Improvement District and to ensure that interested parties have an opportunity to present their views on the application in a public forum. Complete copies of the application will be available, effective Thursday, July 5, 2012, for public review between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Department of Small and Local Business Development (at Judiciary Square), 441 4th Street, NW, Suite 970N, Washington, DC. The recertification package will also be available at the Capitol Hill BID office between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm, effective July 5, 2012. The Capitol Hill BID office is located at 30 Massachusetts Avenue, NE, Union Station Garage – Bus Level, Washington, DC. Those who wish to present testimony are requested to submit their written responses along with the following information, no later than 12:00 noon on Tuesday, July 3, 2012: (a) the name of the person wishing to testify; (b) his/her company or affiliation; (c) his/her status as a commercial property owner, tenant, representative of an exempt property, resident, or private citizen; and (d) a phone number where he/she can be reached. Individuals presenting testimony are requested to bring five copies of their testimony to the hearing. Individuals will be limited to 5 minutes of oral testimony and organizations will be limited to 10 minutes of oral testimony. Those who do not wish to testify at the hearing, but wish to present written comments on the application may submit them in hard copy to the Department of Small and Local Business Development, 441 4th Street, NW, Suite 970N, Washington, DC 20001, no later than 12:00 noon on Tuesday, July 10, 2012. All written testimony and comments may be submitted to Lincoln Lashley at lincoln.lashley@dc.gov, and questions about this hearing should be directed to him at (202) 741-0814.
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ation of a new pedestrian entrance to campus from the corner of Florida Ave. and 6th St. NE; construction of a new residence hall for the Model Secondary School for the Deaf, a residential high school program located on campus; establishment of a new student learning commons to replace the library on the current site of the university’s visitor center and admissions office; refurbishment the “Gallaudet Mall” to enhance the space as an outdoor gathering area. For more information, contact Kaitlin Luna, Coordinator of Media and Public Relations, at Kaitlin.Luna@Gallaudet.edu or 202-448-7106. gallaudet.edu
New Survey Finds Capital Bikeshare Members Drive Less and Save Big
Capital Bikeshare members save an average of $891 per year and collectively reduce their driving miles by 5 million per year. An extensive report released today contains detailed insights on how people are using Capital Bikeshare to get around in the District and Arlington, the impact of the program and the satisfaction of users. The survey was administered in November and December of 2011 and received over 5,000 responses. As the largest bikesharing program in the nation, and one of the few to be in operation for longer than one year, this represents a wealth of useful information to anyone interested in urban transportation.
NoMa Greyhound Station Developers Plan Features Park
Perseus Realty, LLC and First Potomac Realty Trust are nearing the anniversary of their purchase of the Greyhound Station in NoMa, a site they will develop into a mixed use building. While developers remain mum on details of the building, one public element of the plan has emerged; developers will give back a portion of the space to create a public park. Having purchased the development for $46.75 million, according to theWashington Business Journal,
they are redeveloping it with assistance from NoMa BID. The station will be turned into a large mixed-use residential and office building, falling between 600,000 to 700,000 s.f., according to BID President Robin-Eve Jasper. Developers will dedicate 80,000 to 100,000 s.f. on the first two floors for retail. Perhaps more significantly, the property owners will set back their project to allow a widening of L St.-tweaking the L’Enfant grid to construct a park in the median that will act as a “public gathering place” and include a walkway with a staircase that will lead to the second floor of retail in the new development. nomabid.org
Zipcar Brings Car Sharing to Public Housing Developments in Ward 6
The DC Housing Authority (DCHA) and Zipcar have announced that Zipcar, the world’s leading car sharing network, is expanding the availability of car sharing to DCHA public housing sites across the District to provide alternative transportation options for local residents. As part of the new program, Zipcar will place nine new car-sharing vehicles at DCHA locations in Wards three, six, seven and eight for use by local residents. DCHA and Zipcar collaborated to determine the best locations for the new vehicles in areas with high foot traffic and access to public transportation. In Ward 6, cars will be placed at Greenleaf Gardens on 1200 Delaware Ave. SW and Potomac Gardens Senior on 1225 G St. SE. zipcar.com
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Summer Activities at the Arboretum
Here are some interesting things-to-do at the Arboretum this summer. (1) Feed the koi: bring quarters to buy the special food, while supplies last, weekends only. (2) Picnic on the terrace by the koi pool. Food vendor available weekends only. (3) Bring your bicycles to ride on their 9 miles of roads. (4) Pick capitalcommunitynews.com H 57
DEPARTMENT OF SMALL AND LOCAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Extension Of The Term Of The NoMa Business Improvement District Notice is hereby given that, pursuant to section 18 of the Business Improvement Districts Act of 1996, D.C. Official Code § 2-1215.18, the Department of Small and Local Business Development on behalf of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development will hold a public hearing to determine whether to approve the request by the NoMa Business Improvement District (BID) to extend the term of the BID for another 5 years. The current term of the NoMa BID will expire September 30, 2012. If the request for extension is granted, the new term will expire on September 30, 2017. The hearing will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 26, 2012 in Room 123 of the John A. Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC. This public hearing is being conducted to inform citizens about the application to extend the term of the NoMa Business Improvement District and to ensure that interested parties have an opportunity to present their views on the application in a public forum. Complete copies of the application will be available, effective Thursday, July 19, 2012, for public review between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Department of Small and Local Business Development (at Judiciary Square), 441 4th Street, NW, Suite 970N, Washington, DC. The recertification package will also be available at the NoMa BID office between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm, effective July 19, 2012. The NoMa BID office is located at 1200 First Street, NE, Suite 310, Washington, DC. Those who wish to present testimony are requested to submit their written responses along with the following information, no later than 12:00 noon on Tuesday, July 17, 2012: (a) the name of the person wishing to testify; (b) his/her company or affiliation; (c) his/her status as a commercial property owner, tenant, representative of an exempt property, resident, or private citizen; and (d) a phone number where he/she can be reached. Individuals presenting testimony are requested to bring five copies of their testimony to the hearing. Individuals will be limited to 5 minutes of oral testimony and organizations will be limited to 10 minutes of oral testimony. Those who do not wish to testify at the hearing, but wish to present written comments on the application may submit them in hard copy to the Department of Small and Local Business Development, 441 4th Street, NW, Suite 970N, Washington, DC 20001, no later than 12:00 noon on Tuesday, July 24, 2012. All written testimony and comments may be submitted to Lincoln Lashley at lincoln.lashley@dc.gov, and questions about this hearing should be directed to him at (202) 741-0814.
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up the new booklet, Explore the World of Bonsai, and learn about bonsai and the museum. (5) Walk through the shady natural woodland in Fern Valley. (6) Check out the following plants in bloom in July and Aug. In July see butterfly weed, water lilies, annuals, hydrangeas, hibiscus, crape myrtles, daylilies, boxwood, herbs, sweet pepperbush, pepper collection, meadow wildflowers, hostas, and container gardens. There are two entrances to the Arboretum-one at 3501 New York Ave. NE, and the other at 24th and R sts. NE, off of Bladensburg Rd. The Arboretum grounds are open every day except Dec 25 from 8:00 a.m.5:00 p.m. Admission is free. 202-245-2726. usna.usda.gov
The Good Old Days of Dance at Hill Center
The Good Old Days of Dance features dance styles from the 40s, 50s and 60s. Participants watch historical video clips, learn steps and partnering techniques and share memories of the dances. This is expected to be a highly social event. Pros and newbies are welcome. Invite your friends. Thursdays, July 12, 19 and 26; 7:00-8:30 p.m. $60 for one course, $100 for two and $120 for all three. Pick and choose or try all three. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org
AfterDark@THEARC
AfterDark@THEARC is one of Washington DC’s most chic galas benefitting the Town Hall Education Arts Recreation Campus (THEARC) while taking place at the campus itself. For the past two years, AfterDark@THEARC has welcomed Washington’s elite for a night of entertainment, dancing, and presentations by some of our city’s leaders. Past performers include Eric “Elew” Lewis, Frederic Yonnet and the late Chuck Brown. This year, Mayor Vincent Gray, various DC Council members and members of Washington, DC’s philanthrop-
ic community are expected to be in attendance. Gina Adams, Senior Vice President of FEDEX Corporation will also be honored with the 2012 Bridge Builder Award. Saturday, Sept 15,l 6:30 p.m. $250. Tables, $5,000-$25,000. For more information, contact Janet Stone at jstone@thearcdc. org. Tickets may also be purchased online at thearcdc.org.
Don’t be Victimized by Mortgage Scams!
Housing Counseling Services, a HUD approved non-profit, offers free Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) counseling. A HECM or “reverse mortgage” allows qualified homeowners-62 years of age or older-to convert the equity in their homes into a monthly stream of income or a line of credit. Unfortunately, a wave of scams offering reverse mortgages under deceptive terms has recently targeted elderly homeowners. HUD Secretary, Shaun Donovan, released the following statement: “HUD will not tolerate those who abuse the mortgage system and target elderly borrowers for their personal gain…Reverse mortgages can help senior citizens on fixed incomes plan for the future, but it is shameful to bilk the elderly out of their life savings.” If you believe you qualify for a reverse mortgage or have been contacted by someone offering to assist with reverse mortgages, the first step you should take is to talk to a HUD certified HECM counselor to determine whether a HECM loan is the right option for you. In order to schedule an appointment with a HECM counselor please attend a Foreclosure Prevention Clinic at Housing Counseling Services, July 11 or 18, at noon or July 25, at 6:00 p.m. Call 202-667-7006 for more information. H capitalcommunitynews.com H 59
capitolstreets
Brown’s Down, Who’s Next? by Martin Austermuhle
The “Heat Shot” That Got Brown
Kwame Brown, the one-time rising star in D.C. politics, saw a spectacular fall in early June, when in the span of one day he went from being Chair of the D.C. City Council, the second-most powerful elected official in the city, to just a normal resident—albeit one facing federal charges. Two days after resigning his post, he pleaded guilty to a felony charge of bank fraud and misdemeanor counts of campaign finance violations. A week later, the post-Brown era began as Councilmember Phil Mendelson (D-At Large) was elevated to Brown’s former post, taking his infamous attention for detail and legendary attendance record at community meetings to the top of the D.C. Council. While many political gossips predicted that Brown would eventually fall, they were also surprised as to how it actually happened. Brown’s 2008 campaign spending habits, which became the focus of the investigation against him, wasn’t what ultimately did him in—it was his personal financial irresponsibility. Brown was accused of and admitted to falsifying income documents in order to get two loans, one a home equity loan for $166,000 and a second—used to purchase a boat—for $55,000. In the latter case, Brown Kwame Brown at the opening of Phelps Vocational High School, one of the projects he championed in happier times. Photo: Andrew Lightman changed a “3” to an “8” on a 1099 to make it look like he was making more than he did. (It remains unclear how the bank in questo how it was spent—bank fraud seemed, well, a tion, Industrial Bank, didn’t do a further check to confirm that Brown was making what little light. As for the campaign finance violations, those were misdemeanor charges of spending he said he did.) “Wait, is that it?” was a question I heard often above legal cash limits for payments to campaign on the day Brown was charged. None of this was workers. Objectionable as those charges may have to say that bank fraud isn’t a serious charge, but been, they would merit a fine at worst. After Brown’s guilty plea, Machen argued that was it a charge that would merit resignation? In bank fraud can threaten the integrity of the finanthe grand scheme of what many people assumed cial system. That’s true. But Brown had paid off of Brown and his 2008 campaign—hundreds of one loan and was current on the other—and the thousands of dollars were steered to a company bank that gave him both said it had suffered no controlled by his brother, with little accounting as losses from the loans to him. (Ironically, now that 60 H HillRag | July 2012
Brown is a felon and out of work, he’s more likely to default on his obligations.) Machen wouldn’t say much else, but the implication seemed clear—there wasn’t enough of a case to make against Brown from the worst of what happened during his 2008 campaign, so the U.S. Attorney made due with what he had. Brown, seeing that this was a way to step aside gingerly and avoid a trial or further investigation that could include his family as targets, acquiesced. In comments outside the courtroom, though, Brown tried to draw out the silver lining of the situation, saying that he had never used his public office for private gain, like former Ward 5 councilmember Harry Thomas, Jr. had. He seemed to be telegraphing a message to his few remaining supporters: they got me, but it’s only because I was living beyond my means. In the wake of Brown’s resignation and guilty plea, some surprising context came from a strange place. David Simon, a former Baltimore Sun journalist and creator of HBO’s acclaimed series “The Wire,” called Machen’s charge against Brown a “head shot.” “If the rest of your case was insubstantial, if you couldn’t make the case you wanted to make, but you were on the spot for investigating a high profile target, then check the loan documents on that sucker’s house first. See if he made a false claim. Even if he was paying off the bank loan, or had paid the loan, even if there was no actual monetary loss, check the loan documents. It’s amazing how many Americans put more than their best foot forward when they are trying to convince a bank to back their mortgage,” explained Simon, noting that he even wrote the practice into the show, when prosecutors went after notoriously corrupt Maryland State Senator Clay Davis for fudging his mortgage documents. Is that wrong? Should Brown have been forced to resign (and he was; it was part of his plea deal)
for charges unrelated to his public duties? And if Machen had more information on him but not enough to take to trial, is using secondary charges fair? What about Brown’s family? If they were in on any of this, should they be able to glide by merely because the council chair fell? Simon wondered the same thing. “The point is not which politician we want to see get got,” he wrote. “The point is process.” If you’re still skeptical, consider that prosecutors have to think legally as well as strategically. Machen is certainly a strategic thinker—he waited until the day after the council had voted on the 2013 budget before bringing the hammer down on Brown, after all. Now that Brown has been felled, of course, Mayor Vince Gray must be worrying that they’ll get him next. Two of his campaign associates have been charged and have plead guilty, and just like Brown, it wasn’t so much the underlying crime that was the problem. In their case, it’s that they lied about it. Could Machen leverage a few fibs by Gray’s associates to make a case against mayor? Stay tuned.
A Council Realigned
With Brown’s political career seemingly over and Mendelson lording over the council, the dynamics of local politics have certainly changed. Mendelson is now a step away from Gray’s seat, should the mayor be next to be charged and resign. If Mendelson wins the November 6 special election to complete Brown’s term, his own At-Large seat will open up, requiring a special election in March 2013. The rumored mayoral contenders—Jack Evans, Muriel Bowser and Tommy Wells—have to be concerned too, knowing that an election for the city’s top office may well come before 2014. Martin Austermuhle is the Editorin-Chief of DCist.com and a freelance writer. He lives in Petworth. H
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capitolstreets
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What to Watch
The Latest in DC Education News
S
by Soumya Bhat
chool is out, and thoughts are probably turning to swimming and summer camp. But don’t be fooled into thinking that nothing is happening in DC education. There are many changes underway in DCPS and public charter schools that will affect the next school year, starting with the many DC public schools losing librarians and increasing class sizes due to pressures created by the recently adopted fiscal year 2013 budget. There is also new funding for innovations intended to boost the outcomes of DC’s lowest performing schools. Also on the schedule this summer will be discussions of creating neighborhood admissions preferences for the first time in DC public charter schools. Here is a breakdown of the some major education initiatives, along with some issues for your consideration.
back, and middle and high schools will see larger class sizes. In addition, DCPS expects a big increase in special education students as part of aggressive efforts to return students from placements in private schools. However, the budget shows reductions in special education staffing, leaving it uncertain whether schools will have adequate capacity to handle the larger special education population next year. – Issues You Should Consider: How will these funding cuts impact the schools in your neighborhood? Parents and community stakeholders are encouraged to get involved and ask their school leaders about how staffing and funding changes will affect the quality of education for students next school year.
Will School Funding Pressures Affect the Quality of Education Next Year?
In June, DCPS announced grants to 59 schools, ranging from $10,000 to $490,000 to implement innovative programming next year. About 85 percent of the $10 million is going to the 40 lowest-performing schools. Applicants for the grant competition were encouraged to focus their proposals on improving academic achievement through changes such as extending the school day, using technology in innovative ways, and increasing the capacity of their staff. Thirteen schools are planning to extend the school day with their grant dollars. – Issues You Should Consider: Will the impact of school funding cuts limit the success of these new efforts? If so, do the winning
The fiscal year 2013 budget boosted per-pupil funding two percent for DC Public Schools and Public Charter Schools. Yet this will not be enough for DCPS to keep pace with rising costs of core school functions. Specifically, the staffing costs for teachers, counselors, and instructional coaches will rise 5.4 percent, partly because the private funding used to implement DC’s new teacher evaluation and bonus system has run out. As a result, many schools will have to scale back services. Smaller schools lost funding for librarians, summer school programs will be scaled 62 H HillRag | July 2012
“Proving What’s Possible” Grants
schools have time to prepare for the school year with their new innovative programming? In any case, it will be important to watch how the proficiency rates change at schools getting these funds.
Will Kwame Brown’s Pet Projects Survive?
DC’s budget for next year includes funding for four new pilot initiatives championed by former DC Council Chairman Kwame Brown under the “Raising the Expectations for Education Outcomes Omnibus Act of 2012.” • Early Warning and Support: Students in grades four through nine in four different feeder school groups will be tracked to identify students who are at risk of dropping out of school and to provide them with more individual attention and assistance to get them back on track for high school graduation. • Post-Secondary Preparation: All high school students in DC public schools and DC public charter schools will berequired to take the SAT or ACT and apply to at least one college or other postsecondary institution before graduating. • Highly-Effective Teacher Incentive: This pilot program will offer incentives for highly effective teachers that are willing to serve in high-need DC schools for a minimum of three years: annual bonuses of $10,000, access to housing assistance programs, tuition assistance, and income tax credits. Up to five teachers at four
high schools will participate in the pilot. • Community Schools: The legislation will support public-private partnerships between public or public charter schools and non-profit and community organizations to provide a wide range of services to the entire school community, including health care, academic enrichment activities, early childhood education, and job training programs. The Office of the State Superintendent for Education will administer grants of up to $200,000 to each of the five pilot schools selected for participation. But schools will be expected to seek federal and private sources to keep these initiatives going in future years. – Issues You Should Consider: With the change in leadership at the Council, these pilot programs may not be sustained over time, which in some cases may not be a problem. It is not clear that all of these approaches — especially making all students apply to college — will have much effect on educational outcomes. But if the more promising approaches are not sustained, there will not be adequate time to see any impacts. In addition, the Community Schools Incentive and Teacher Incentive initiatives won’t be sustained long-term without securing private and federal funding. These initiatives will require political will and community support if they are seen as valuable for DC’s education system.
Should Charter Schools Be Required to Offer Neighborhood Admission Preferences?
New legislation called for creating a task force this summer to study the idea of a neighborhood admissions preference for DC public charter schools. The task force stems from complaints of some parents that they live near a public charter school they would like to attend, but get no special consideration in the school’s admissions process. The meetings, which should be open to the public, will take place this summer to complete the final report with recommendations by Sept. 1, 2012. – Issues You Should Consider: The task force will be led by the board chair of the DC Public Charter School Board. Other members now being selected will include representatives from government agencies, charter schools, researchers, and charter school advocates. Some are concerned that having a neighborhood admissions preference could lead to more confusion for parents already navigating two competing sectors (DCPS and Charter Schools) or possibly harm under-enrolled DCPS neighborhood schools that may lose students to charter schools. It will be important to keep an eye on the task force to make sure they account for the interests of all children in DC, regardless of what type of school they choose or what neighborhood they live in. Bhat is an education policy analyst at the DC Fiscal Policy Institute (www.dcfpi.org), which conducts research on tax and budget issues that affect low- and moderate-income DC residents.
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capitolstreets ANC reports
NEWS ANC 6A
by Roberta Weiner
J
une’s ANC 6A meeting was only one hour long, and much of the Commission’s regular business was absent from the meeting: there was no report from the Alcoholic Beverage Licensing Committee (although Chairman David Holmes reported that four Class A liquor stores in the H Street corridor have not yet signed the ANC’s newly updated Voluntary Agreement—I’m sure there will be more on that next month), there was only one item from the Economic Development and Zoning Committee (a little more on that below), and even the audience was circumspect about mak-
ing comments. So, here’s what did happen. • A representative of Options Public Charter School gave a presentation on the new gym the school is constructing next to the school in Northeast. The construction is scheduled to begin in July with the exterior of the building and will move indoors in the fall. The gym should be completed by next July, • The Community Outreach Committee presented two grants for approval by the ANC, and they provided the liveliest discussion of the evening. The first is for $533 to the Eastern High School PTSA to provide storage carts and sweat suit uniforms for the school’s band, which has previously received a grant from the ANC. The second is for a program called P’Tones that operates at Sherwood Rec Center. P’Tones is a national program that features a full recording studio and
•
•
trains students in various aspects of the recording. The Committee also offered resolutions that would have moved funds to the grants from the ANC’s annual surplus, which is projected to be about $22,000. Holmes and Treasurer Nick Alberti, saying that this is the smallest reserve the Commission has ever had, want to remain prepared for possible unexpected expenses until at least August, and successfully moved to table the requests for additional funds. It was suggested that the grantees return in October, the start of the new fiscal year, Nelson, saying that “generally, we have more money than takers, but not this time,” said her committee was looking into the possibility of modifying its grantmaking procedures, and suggested as one possible option would be to have two cycles a year,
Neighbors Surprise David Holmes with a Thank You Party
ANC 6A Chair David Holmes. A band entertains the crowd assembled to thank Holmes for his dedication. Photos: Rick Hamecs 64 H HillRag | July 2012
On Saturday, June 2, about forty neighbors of ANC 6A chair David Holmes threw a surprise party in his honor in Al Arrighi Way, the broad alley behind the 100 block of 10th Street NE. Ward 6 councilman Tommy Wells and former council member Sharon Ambrose attended the potluck event, and the Capitol Hillbillies provided the music. “We just wanted to thank him,” said Sharon Ambrose, the event’s main organizer. “David has gone the extra mile for us again and again, representing our needs on the Commission and keeping us informed about all manner of city developments and decisions.” Holmes is now in his second term representing the ANC 6A03 district. His wife Shauna helped keep plans for the event a secret and arranged for other family members to attend. -- John Franzén
ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION 6A DAVID HOLMES, CHAIR, 202-251-7079 with all applications for a cycle being due on the same date, She said her committee would work on it, Mr. Alberti said he would look at the budgeting process in relation to grants. The ANC voted to approve the P’Tones grant, but tabled the funding for Eastern High School because no representative of the program was present, • Of course, even a short 6A meeting wouldn’t be complete without some action on the construction of the unwanted gas station at 14th Street and Maryland Avenue that it has been battling for years. This month it was a motion to support appealing the building permits that have been granted because of a failure to include the closing of the Maryland Ave. median by BZA order. Additionally, the motion reserves the right of the ANC to support appeals by other individuals challenging the permits. The motion passed without objection. • Several recommendations by the Transportation and Public Space Committee did receive attention: the first was support for the relocation of a curb cut as part of the newly resumed construction at the Oasis, an apartment building on 9th Street near K Street NE. Next, the ANC supported a request by the residents of the 1400 block of G Street NE to make their two-way block one-way to match the rest of G Street. The ANC urged the street’s residents to gather petition signatures and submit them to DDOT. Finally, the Commission approved a letter to DDOT supporting a request by 6C to modify the current visitor parking permit regulations, which are currently a target for easy abuse, enabling people to use them indefinitely in lieu of residential permits, The next meeting of ANC 6A will be on Thursday, July `12 at 7 PM at Miner Elementary School, 601 15th Street NE.
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www.anc6a.org ANC 6A, 2nd Thursday, July 12, 7 PM Alcohol Beverage Licensing Committee 3rd Tuesday, July 17, 7pm • Sherwood Recreation Center Corner of 10th & G Streets, NE • Chair, Adam Healey, 556-0215 Transportation & Public Space Committee 3rd Monday, July 16, 7pm • Sherwood Recreation Center Corner of 10th and G Sts. NE • Chair, Omar Mahmud, 546-1520 Economic Development & Zoning Committee 3rd Wednesday, July 18, 7pm • Sherwood Recreation Center Corner of 10th & G Streets, NE • Chair, Drew Ronneberg, 431-4305 Community Outreach Committee 3rd Monday, July 16, 7:30pm • 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!
ANC 6B by Emily Clark
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oltaire is credited with the quote “the perfect is the enemy of the good,” and ANC 6B commissioners seemed to be using that logic in asking for support of a Memorandum of Agreement between the commission and the developers of the proposed Hine School redevelopment project. All commissioners were present and sped through a routine agenda in order to spend more time debating the pros and cons of the MOA, a debate that sparked impassioned pleas on both sides. The MOA was ultimately approved, but not before residents and commissioners weighed in. Most of the Hill residents who showed up at the meeting spoke against the project, countering both Voltaire and the Commission by arguing that the good just wasn’t good enough. In substantial numbers they expressed concerns about the size and density of the mixed use development design, as well as anxiety about traffic, congestion, noise and the permanent alteration of their neighborhood for the worse. And they worried aloud about the future of the Eastern Market. capitalcommunitynews.com H 65
capitolstreets ANC reports Benefit or Blight?
Neighbors took the commission to task for not trying harder to get a better agreement, while commissioners supporting the MOA argued that they had negotiated what they consider a fair benefits and amenities package for a project that will ultimately benefit, not destroy, the Capitol Hill community. Resident Mary Fraker compared the “best we can do” argument to settling for a so-so husband: “I am disappointed in the MOA. I am also disappointed in Commissioner Frishburg’s characterizing the MOA, as ‘not getting everything the community wanted, but it’s an improvement.’ To me, that’s like someone saying, ‘Getting married would be an improvement over being single. And I met this guy who is employed, takes a shower every day, doesn’t smoke, drink, do drugs, gamble or run around, so . . . . .’” Sheldon Harris, who lives in the 500 block of Independence Avenue, also urged a no vote, saying “We’ve watched this project creep from height to width. How much massiveness can we take?” Another Hill resident, Raiford Gaffney, was one of the few who spoke in support of the project, saying it was time to act. “I’m sick of looking at an empty school, and we need the tax revenues,” she said. “It’s time to move forward.” The consensus seemed to be that the project was a “huge mistake” and the commission should reconsider. Resident after resident stated that they were not opposed to development, only to a project that “is not Capitol Hill and not good for the neighborhood.”
Commissioners Push Back
Commissioner Frishberg expressed his frustration—after more than a year of intense negotiations with the developers. He said that the community had initially accepted the design concept and that he and Commissioner Pate had addressed concerns about height and about the market, and had secured a fair package of benefits and amenities. “They’ve taken a whole story off the height, and we made sure there are safeguards to preserve the Eastern Market,” he said. “If we walk away from this, what will we get? I don’t trust the city. I can’t walk away from this agreement just because there’s a risk. “So go ahead and beat the crap out of us, but I’m not going to walk away. This is not going to destroy our neighborhood,” he said, adding that “I get your fears and anxieties, but 66 H HillRag | July 2012
ultimately this is a benefit that will build the tax base for the future.” Commissioner Metzger told the crowd, “Things change and there is no promise of stability—the Hill desperately needs more density, more neighborhoods, more neighbors.” Commissioner Oldenburg said the MOA had been modified, and she could support it. She also noted the benefits of “new residents, new offices and new shops.” In supporting the MOA, Commissioner Garrison said, “We need development near metro stops, and we on the Hill need to remain players in the work to come.” “The community anxiety is palpable,” Commissioner Pate acknowledged. “But I remain optimistic about the development. I would not vote for it if I thought it would destroy the Eastern Market, which I think will remain a vibrant place.” Pate also said he would continue to work to mitigate any adverse effects.
The Other Side of the Commission
In voting no, Commissioner Glick said, “The developers are getting a profit, but we’re getting congestion and blocked views. You and I are consumers and community members and we need a voice. This MOA takes out our voice.” Commissioner Francis Campbell, who has lived on Capitol Hill all his life, said that he has seen dramatic changes, but never a change in the streetscape. “But I see it now, and this thing is just too damn big,” he said, noting that 7th Street “is not big or wide enough to accommodate all the additional people and traffic” the project will bring. The vote was 6-4 to approve the MOA, with Commissioners Green, Glick, Campbell and Critchfield voting no.
New ANC Executive Director
After the Hine School vote, the Commission went briefly into executive session, after which Chairman Critchfield announced the appointment of Susan Eads Role as the new ANC 6B Executive Director to replace Bert Randolph. Role is an attorney and registered parliamentarian who has previously served ANC 6B as a Resident Member of the Planning and Zoning Committee and as a parliamentary consultant to the Bylaws Review Working Group. H
ANC 6C by Roberta Weiner
A New Incarnation for White Tiger Site
Some people remember the time long ago when it was a barber shop; others have fond memories of The Man In The Green Hat, and most Hill residents smile walking by the appealing outdoor dining patio at the White Tiger at Massachusetts Avenue and 3rd Street NE. But it’s about to change again and ANC 6C found itself with a controversial public space support request to decide. The White Tiger will be leaving, and will be replaced by Pete’s Pizza, a popular local pizzeria with outposts in Columbia Heights and Tenleytown. Joe Reger, the owner of the building, has a plan for changing its layout, moving the kitchen, which has been on the second floor, to the first, taking away much of the first floor seating. Reger claims that people don’t naturally gravitate to a second floor, and he needs to provide additional seating. His solution is a twenty-seat glass-enclosed semi-permanent structure outdoors on the 3rd Street side of the building to the right of the entrance, and an extended awning over another twelve seats to the left of the door, both in public space. Additionally, a refrigerated trash room will be built inside, and an enclosure will be constructed at the property’s northern edge for paper and where trash will be moved for daily pick-up to mitigate what neighbors say is a constant odor. Finally, seating on the Massachusetts Avenue patio will be increased from its current 55 to 88, Several 3rd Street neighbors spoke about the problems they felt would be created by the additional seating—noise, a lack of parking, a large increase in the number of people on their street, and the possibility of tour buses stopping for pizza. One woman, who has lived on the street for 64 years, walks with difficulty and she is concerned that she will lose ready access to a convenient parking space. On the other hand, Reger presented petitions and letters from people in support of the changes, and two people added their verbal approval. Reger said he would write into the lease that no tour buses will be allowed, and Pete’s owners, who were at the meeting, said that that was a kind of business they did not want. They also said they were willing to sign a voluntary agreement. Commission members were concerned about the need for the enclosed structure and asked very specific questions about the actual need for additional seating. Commissioner
Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6C P.O. Box 77876 • Washington, D.C. 20013-7787 www.anc6c.org Call (202) 547-7168 for meeting time and location. ANC 6C generally meets the second Wednesday of each month.
ANC 6C Commissioners:
Bill Crews expressed concern that public space was being used for purely private benefit. After a substantial amount of discussion, the Commission voted to advise the Public Space Committee that there is no problem with the Massachusetts Avenue frontage, and the Commission is most concerned that the enclosure be no larger than what is shown on the applicant’s plans, and that no trash be stored in public space. The motion passed 4-2-1.
Still No Decision on Verizon Center Signage
ANC 6C01 Keith Silver 6C-01@anc.dc.org ANC 6C02 Mark Dixon (202) 438-2228 mdixon402@hotmail.com ANC 6C03 VACANT
ANC 6C04 Tony Goodman (202) 271-8707 tonytgood@gmail.com ANC 6C05 M.Tony Richardson (202) 997-6662 tonyrichardson08@gmail.com ANC 6C06 John Scott Price (202) 577-6261 6CO6@anc.dc.gov
ANC 6C07 Bill Crews anc6c07@aol.com ANC 6C08 Karen Wirt (202) 547-7168 6C08@anc.dc.gov ANC 6C09 Kevin Wilsey (202) 669-5184 kwilsey@thelansburgh.com
Last month, ANC 6D voted to wait until the Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA) and the Penn Quarter Neighborhood Association took positions on the plan by Monumental Sports, the Verizon Center’s ownership group, to add nine digital signs to its 7th and F Street exteriors before it took a position of its own. At the time of the ANC meeting, the Penn Quarter group had not yet met, but Nanette Paris, president of the DNA, said that her group was concerned about the process. The Mayor, she said, currently has a Task Force assessing billboards and signage citywide, with the goal of formulating a policy, and they should be reporting soon. The DNA is concerned that Monumental Sports is attempting to move to anticipate any policy shift. City Council action on the issue is imminent, and so the ANC voted to approve what the two groups agree to, and, if they are not in agreement, the ANC will take a position at its July meeting.
First Street NE Redevelopment Plans Detailed
Last month, Commissioner Tony Goodman announced that a major renewal of 1st Street NE was being planned, and he invited people to attend a community meeting at which the project was discussed. What was revealed at the meeting was that the project, which has been in the works for five years but delayed because of various development projects, is ready to roll. It will be a major reconstruction, going from K Street to New York Avenue. Goodman was frank in saying that it will not be an easy time for residents. The street will be entirely torn up and redone. There will be one-way traffic for about a year, and the roadbed from K Street to G Street.will also be redone. However, when it’s finished there will be a totally new street with new crosswalks and a painted bicycle track from Union Station to L and Pierce Streets.
In Other Actions,.,.
In other actions, ANC 6C… Voted to support an application for a stipulated liquor license for Hill Country Summer Barbeque at the National Building Museum, 700 6th Street NW. Beginning in mid-July, the Penn Quarter barbeque haven will begin ferrying its wares to the west lawn of the museum and serving food and drink weekday evenings from 5 to 11 PM, and daytimes on the weekends • Unanimously passed a resolution in support of Initiative 70, The Prohibition on Corporate Campaign Contributions Initiative of 2012, which will appear on the November ballot and, if passed, prevent corporations, LLCs and partnerships from contributing to local election campaigns. • Voted to approve a license for a new establishment at 600 F Street NW, in the basement of the OBA building, which will be a high end Japanese cocktail lounge • Approved two requests for support of races: one from SOME •
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capitolstreets ANC reports (So Others May Eat) for their annual Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day; and Light Up the Night, an evening walk on Pennsylvania Avenue on October 13th to benefit leukemia and lymphoma • Enthusiastically supported a public space application from Bill McLeod of the Mt. Vernon Triangle BID for banners to be hung from 40 lampposts on 4th Street NW. The banners feature photographs of the neighborhood with captions highlighting the neighborhood’s features. The next meeting of ANC 6C will be on Wednesday, July 11th, at 7 PM, at the Heritage Foundation, 214 Massachusetts Avenue NE H
ANC6D by Roberta Weiner
The Wharf Moves Ahead
A session before the US Commission on Fine Arts, three pieces of legislation before the US Congress, four hearings before the DC Zoning Commission, all about 11 parcels of land. That’s what’s immediately ahead for the developers of The Wharf, the project that will change the face and character of the Southwest waterfront, creating a new town that will include residential developments, a new location for the live-aboard colony at the waterfront marina, the Wharf Center, a venue designed for concerts, lectures, and fund-raising events, parks, the fish market, hotels, and much, much more. Monte Hoffman, the project’s principal developer, reviewed the plans for the ANC, beginning with the timetable: the Commission on Fine Arts hearing is scheduled for June 21; the legislation, necessary to meet requirements of the Army Corps of Engineers, which has jurisdiction over the Channel and the marinas, is scheduled to be acted on before the end of June; the Zoning Commission hearings, beginning on Thursday, June 28, will continue on Monday, July 2, Thursday, 12, and Monday, July 23. They are planning to begin construction in January 2013, with utility relocation and bulkhead construction, and, according to Hoffman, the project will be completed by 2016. Hoffman described the project’s elements-its waterfront promenade and bicycle path, the tall apartment buildings built atop groundlevel retail and restaurants and cafes, the broad 68 H HillRag | July 2012
streets leading to the waterfront, the outdoor green spaces, and the two public piers extending into the Channel. He highlighted the Wharf Center, a venue being designed by noted architect David Rockwell that will have removable seats for 5500 concertgoers, and be adaptable for such events as dinners or lectures. He emphasized the area will be attractive to both residents and visitors. Of course, this is not the first time the ANC has seen the plans, and after a series of on-going meetings, there are many issues still under discussion. In fact, underlying the request for support was a large packet of documents on solutions to potential problems, requested by the ANC. Some of them include a construction management plan, a landscape and arborist plan, an operations plan for the Wharf Center and a plan for dispersing the 5500 attendees after a Wharf Center event, a plan for the use of garages and parking lots during construction, a recreational water sports plan, a pedestrian access plan, and a lot of others. The documents were delivered to the Commissioners on Friday afternoon, allowing, according to Chair Andy Litsky, scant time for study and analysis prior to the Monday meeting, Litsky was also troubled by the fact that Hoffman had not yet, after many months, reached any agreement as to the future status of the marina’s slipholders, “a living, breathing, vibrant waterfront community,” a thought reinforced by Jason Kopp, president of the Gangplank Marina Slipholders Association, who raised the insecure future of the 94 members of the community. Currently, the marina is owned by the District, but it will be owned by the developer, and the live-aboards are concerned, simply, about having a place to live. While Hoffman claims that he has “always embraced the live-aboards” and considered them a part of the future plans, the District has been guilty of “inertia”,that has slowed negotiations down. But he claims to be ready to meet with people this week and “get up to speed.” And so, saying that because of the hearing schedule, the ANC at its July meeting will have “an opportunity for a second bite at the apple,” to support the project, Litsky offered a resolution calling the lack of action with the live-aboards “unacceptable” and citing concerns about traffic, Army Corps of Engineers actions, the location of the Kastle’s stadium, and the Waterfront Park, many of which will be addressed at the ANC’s July meeting, and saying that the ANC remains open to discussions with the developer “for the purpose of ameliorating our concerns,” the ANC voted 6-0-1 to not support the project, with Commissioner Bob Craycraft not voting.
Hope VI Community Center Gets Delayed – Again
Echoing two previous requests, the DC Housing Authority asked the ANC to support one more delay in implementing the construction of a community center that is slated to be a part of the Hope VI development process. The last delay was granted on July 10, 2010, and the delay was effective for two years so it’s time for renewal. The Housing Authority’s David Cortiella, who has worked on the project for years, assured the ANC that there really are differences this time, and there will be $7.6 million in funding available early next year with which they can finally move forward on the long-awaited community center for the project. They will be going to the City Council before the summer recess with the legislation necessary to enable them to go to market in November and sell the bonds by the end of the year. The last infusion of $29 million in bond revenues has been used to complete Phases I and II of the Capitol Quarter townhouses and to implement the long-awaited demolition of the New Jersey Avenue SE trash transfer station that has recently been moved to Oakie Street NE and will be replaced by another apartment building, the Chelsea, which like the rest of the development, is part of public-private partnerships with several different developers. Cortiella also reported on a topic always of concern to the Commissioners: the fate of the Capper Carrollsburg public housing tenants who were displaced for the construction of the Hope VI project. He said that they had surveyed current residents of the development and found 400 public housing alumni and 240 market rate residents. He said they would soon start discussion with the community about the future of Van Ness School, which many people are anxious to see re-opened. The members of the Commission, impressed with the seemingly real progress, voted unanimously to support the Housing Authority’s request.
52 Bus Route to Be Extended Into 6D Territory
The 52 bus which currently runs up 14th Street to Colorado Avenue NW is slated for a new route beginning in June 2013. Rather than its current terminus at the L’Enfant Plaza Metro station, the bus will continue on 14h Street to the waterfront and follow the route of the discontinued waterfront Circulator bus, terminating either at the Waterfront Metro station or continuing across M Street to the Navy Yard Metro. Commissioners Ron McBee and Rhonda
Hamilton, who have been diligent in their efforts to make WMATA more responsive to the needs of Southwest residents by improving .less than adequate bus service, have been working with WMATA which is currently attempting to establish the new route in a way that maximizes the line’s potential for providing more—and more efficient—service in an area that is primed for explosive population growth. The two Commissioners offered a resolution to WMATA recommending that the 52 bus route be extended to the Southwest waterfront and the Navy Yard to support residential growth and development in the community. It does not recommend a terminus at 4th Street (the Waterfront Metro) because of the heavy traffic congestion and the loss of retail parking spaces. The resolution passed unanimously,
In Other Actions…
In other actions, the ANC… • Also unanimously passed a resolution in support of Initiative 70, The Prohibition on Corporate Campaign Contributions Initiative of 2012, which will appear on the November ballot and, if passed, prevent corporations, LLCs and partnerships from contributing to local election campaigns. • Voted without objection to amend the Voluntary Agreement for the Spirit Ships river cruise ships to include a new ship, to be called the National, which will not be berthed at Southwest, but may visit as paqrt of its planned use as a special events venue. The next meeting of ANC 6D will be on Monday, July 9th, at 7 PM at 1100 4th Street SW, DCRA Hearing Room, 2nd Floor. H
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Home, Sweet Home
Crossword Author: Myles Mellor • www.themecrosswords.com • www.mylesmellorconcepts.com
by Sally York and Myles Mellor Across:
1. City NNW of Madrid 5. Corpulent 10. Choirs may stand on them 16. “Poison Arrow” band 19. ___ d’amore 20. Golf score 21. Main dish 22. Bit of baby talk 23. Take care of teen business 27. Tangles 28. Literary ___ 29. Shrek, e.g. 30. Beluga yield 31. Heroin, slangily 33. Sacs 37. Showing bias at the game 46. In the know 47. Infants in the news 48. Made to last 49. Elusive creature 50. Arab market 52. French commune 54. Put on the line 55. Pub ___ 57. “If only ___ listened ...” 60. Apart from this 61. Champion 64. Reproductive cell 66. Muffet food 70. Dorothy’s mantra? 75. Axed 76. Kind of pictures 77. Most coated with ice 78. Hamster’s home 81. Artful 82. Meditation position 83. Be decisive 86. Bond, for one 88. Buggy terrain 89. Austin radio station 93. Computer language 95. Playing marbles 99. Carpenter’s tool 100. Visit the folks at Christmas, perhaps 104. Cremona craftsman 105. Bit of physics 106. Flair, e.g. 107. Bridge 110. French novelist Pierre 112. Tiny details 117. Alternative medicine remedies 123. Back, in a way 124. “___ My Room,” Incubus tune 125. Related maternally
126. Bothers 127. Moo goo gai pan pan 128. Computer instructions 129. Down the hatch 130. Wear a long face
Down:
1. Bank deposit 2. Black, in poetry 3. Circus cries 4. Advertising sign 5. Moon of Uranus 6. Genu varum 7. Freudian topics 8. “Dear” one 9. “A rat!” 10. Battle do-over 11. Digging, so to speak 12. Fetor 13. Be mistaken 14. Legal thing 15. Dry, as wine 16. Awestruck 17. Crude dude 18. “Unforgettable” singer 24. One of the Osmonds 25. Winged 26. Plantain lily 31. Hit 32. Computer monitor, for short 34. Alpine call 35. Dirt particles 36. Brusque 37. Beam 38. Be behind 39. Bran source 40. Brimmed hat 41. Unfair? 42. Time zone 43. “Chicago” lyricist 44. Amber, e.g. 45. Assembled 50. Be rude to 51. “A Prayer for ___ Meany” 53. Country dance 56. Bemoan 57. Quashes 58. In-box contents 59. Lure 61. Biblical suffix 62. “___ Loves You” 63. Nave bench 64. Mail place: Abbr. 65. Midmorning 66. Swept 67. Cultivate
LAST MONTHS ANSWERS: 68. Fat letters 69. Eventually 71. Black cat, to some 72. Flatten, in a way 73. Sky box? 74. Big bird 78. Bank 79. Insect-eating lizard 80. “The Maids” playwright 82. Luxurious 83. Away 84. Campaigner, for short 85. Assay 87. Certain religious adherent 88. Adjudge 90. Eggs 91. Chief 92. 1997 U.S. Open winner 94. Macbeth, for one 96. Crumb crusts 97. Loft
98. Even if, briefly 99. Flax 101. Remove impurities 102. Calmer 103. Austere 107. “Heartbreak House” writer 108. Swamp-dweller, in comics 109. Crazily 111. Its quarter says “Birthplace of Aviation Pioneers” 112. Cold cuts, e.g. 113. Mets, Jets or Nets 114. Chinese leader? 115. At the peak of 116. Sum, ___, fui 118. Eponymous physicist 119. Low-tech missile 120. ___ welder 121. Casual attire 122. Biology class abbr.
Look for next months answers at labyrinthgameshop.com
Community Life Spotted on the Hill:
The Great Egret
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aving the Anacostia River located at the foot of Capitol Hill permits us to see water birds that normally would not show up in our parks and backyards. From mid to late summer, one of the more spectacular species that can easily be seen is the Great Egret, Ardea alba. I have seen them when taking the blue/orange metro line to and from New Carrollton as the train crosses the river and by visiting the Kingman Island area near the RFK Stadium. Great Egrets are easily identified by their all-white feathers, long black legs, and yellowish bill. They can be seen standing or wading in water or perched in branches along the river. When in breeding plumage, they have long fine plumes trailing down their necks. When flying, they will retract their long necks into an s-curve... Along the Atlantic, they will nest as far north as Southern Maine and those in the colder areas will migrate south in the fall. By December there are very few of these birds still around in the DC/MD region. Great Egrets are the most widely distributed member of the heron family, appearing where there is suitable habitat in areas of Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia as well as North and South America. If there is “breaking news” for a column like this, the BBC has reported (May/June 2012) the first recorded successful nesting of this species in the UK at the Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve in Somerset. Three chicks have hatched. The Great Egret is the logo of the National Audubon Society and this is a good choice. The Audubon Society was formed in large part to combat
by Peter Vankevich
activities such as market hunting. Beginning in the 1880s, it was fashionable for women’s hat designs to include feathers and other parts of birds. Even some of the men’s fedoras had feather trims. Frank Chapman, founder of the Christmas Bird Counts recounted how in 1886 he walked through Manhattan and in two days spotted 40 native species of birds that were parts of three-quarters of the 700 women’s hats he counted. Some of these ornate hats included entire stuffed species including the Red-headed Woodpecker and the Eastern Bluebird. It was estimated that five million wild birds were killed for their feathers that year. In the early 1900s, an ounce of fine feathers was worth more than an ounce of gold. The most popular bird feathers were those of the Snowy and Great Egrets and their populations plummeted by 95%. Back then the easiest way to make a killing, so to speak, was to go to rookeries in places such as the Everglades. Not only were the adult birds killed but the eggs and featherless
young birds left behind for predators also became casualties. A grass roots effort by many, including Boston socialite Harriet Lawrence Hemenway, conveyed the message that it was uncool to wear parts of dead animals. Good old-fashioned opprobrium and public lobbying led to federal protection with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in 1918. With that passage, egret and heron numbers and many other species began to recover from the brink of extinction. This Great Egret was photographed flying near in the Anacostia River. If you are looking for a fall get away and would like to see Great Egrets and lots of other fascinating birds, consider the 16th Annual Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival that will take place on the Outer Banks of North Carolina (Nov. 6-11). I’ll be leading field trips on Ocracoke and Portsmouth islands. For further information, go to <http://www.wingsoverwater.org/ >. Comments or suggestions for future columns, contact:petevankevich@ gmail.com. H capitalcommunitynews.com H 71
communitylife
The Anacostia River Corridor: DC’s Central Park?
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ummertime in the city always makes people seek cool refuge at bodies of water or in the mountains of our region – we annually migrate to the beach, lakes, rivers and mountains for relief from the heat and humidity of the city. Decades ago, Rock Creek Park and the hills of Mount Pleasant often served as the summertime heat relief for DC’s residents if they could not make it to the beaches – it was several degrees cooler in the wooded hills of Northwest DC. Today, many of us who work or live along the Anacostia River believe this river corridor is becoming the new summertime recreational destination within our city. It certainly has the fundamentals to serve that purpose of an in-town alternative and respite from the heat and humidity of DC – miles of waterfront and access to the river, new parks and green spaces, docks and marinas, a 20-mile riverwalk trail system, and hundreds of acres of wetlands and woodlands that naturally cool our city and neighborhoods. When you attend Friday night concerts in Yards Park, you get the sense that the Anacostia River can be a very special in-town amenity. Mayor Williams and Director of Planning Andy Altman set this vision in motion with the development of the Anacostia Waterfront Initiative (AWI) Framework Plan that was adopted as public policy by the DC Council in 2003. That AWI Framework Plan envisioned a clean river that is swimmable and fishable; a parks and riverwalk trail system that provided access to the river; public docks and marinas for water taxis, ferries, canoes, kayaks, and power boats; and access to great park spaces such as the National Arboretum, the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, and Kingman Island. While the vision of a clean Anacostia River is still years from being achieved, it is underway through a number of projects and regional partnerships. And many of the AWI Plan’s projects have been implemented and we are starting to rediscover the benefits of access to the river, and to new parks and open space along the Anacostia. Can the Anacostia River corridor be72 H HillRag | July 2012
by Michael Stevens land holdings in the RFK Stadium complex and parking lots, you begin to realize that the footprint of the river corridor and the various public lands is enormous. When taken as a whole and not just a series of parks and improvements it becomes a true destination corridor for recreation and riverfront enjoyment. I am reminded of a saying put forth regarding the six million acres of the Adirondack Park system – that the Adirondacks are the “lungs” of New York. I believe that the Anacostia River corridor and adjacent public lands can be the “lungs” of Washington, DC, but also a recreational amenity that can serve this city for generations to come. Let’s examine some of the possibilities and real projects.
come a great waterfront destination for our city and region? Can it offer the variety of recreational and in-town open space amenities that a Central Park has done for New York City? I believe it can as it has enormous possibility through thousands of acres of land, forests, and wetlands that front on the river and comprise some of its islands. When you look at the National Park Service holdings on the south side of the river, as well as the Federal
Kingman Island – this large island just east of RFK sits in the Anacostia River and has been envisioned as a nature preserve and environmental educational center to be operated by Living Classrooms. Imagine the ability to hike, bike, canoe or kayak to a state of the art educational building and nature center on the island that is also a model of green/sustainable design. It will allow children and adults the opportunity to interact with the river and learn of its importance in a larger watershed that connects to the Chesapeake Bay. RFK Stadium and Parking Lots – While the future of the stadium complex is unknown, it is easy to imagine a majority of the surrounding parking lots being developed as low-impact athletic fields to serve the growing population of children and young adults in our city who play soccer, softball, football and other sports. Poplar Point – this neighborhood directly across from the Capitol Riverfront has been planned to include a 70+-acre park and wetlands preserve, as well as commercial development and a marina with docks. The balance of nature and water access with a well planned neighborhood development illustrates the appeal of waterfront living and sustainable, mixed use communities.
The National Arboretum – the 370+ acre National Arboretum can be reached by canoe, kayak and pontoon boat from the Anacostia River and is one of the great pastoral open spaces, garden collections and forests in our city. From the Capitol Columns overlook, to the varied gardens and collections of Bonsai and Penching trees, the Arboretum is as varied as it is large and it offers excellent hilltop views of the U.S. Capitol complex and the Anacostia River. The adjacent Langston golf course adds to the pastoral feel of this section of our city and the recreational opportunities of the Anacostia watershed. The Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens – Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is the only national park devoted to cultivated waterloving plants. This unique habitat, featuring exotic water lilies and lotus, is an oasis for nature lovers, a haven for walkers, hikers, photographers and birdwatchers and a living laboratory for students of all ages. Hill East– Proposed as a mixed-use, transit oriented new community on the Hill, the Hill East project is currently on hold but the master plan did designate park space and access to the Anacostia River, as well as a new bridge across the river for Massachusetts Avenue. Anacostia Riverwalk Trail – this 20 mile long trail system along both banks of the Anacostia River has been more than 50% completed and more segments are scheduled to open soon. The hike/bike trail will ultimately connect the Tidal Basin to the Bladensburg County Park, and users will have the opportunity to cross various bridges to make their experience as long or as short as they want. Yards Park – this 5.5 acre park has been open since September 2010 and has become a regional waterfront destination. It allows public access to a section of the Anacostia Riverfront where the public had not been permitted since the 1890s. Considered the “front porch” of our neighborhood, Yards Park offers great views of the river, water features and a wading pool, the River Street Gardens, the Great Lawn, a wonderful boardwalk, and the River Terrace Steps and an overlook plaza for picnicking. The Anacostia Boathouse – this boathouse located just north of the Sousa Bridge is the headquarters for high school and college crews that practice rowing on the river.
Almost every day one can witness some of the crews on the river as they practice for their next race. The Wharf – this project in the SW Waterfront will result in a transformation of the current waterfront with three new piers, a new public wharf along the Washington Channel, approximately 5 million square feet of new development including residential, hotel, office, and retail/restaurant uses, and a new park near the Titanic Memorial. While Kingman Island is a pastoral riverfront escape, the Wharf is an urban edge with a mix of uses along the channel. The three new piers will invite users out into the channel to experience the water and a variety of activities. All of these projects illustrate the scope and vision of the AWI Framework Plan, and how important this river corridor can be to our city. Many of these projects are very significant in their own right – taken together they are a string of destinations that invite you to experience the Anacostia as a recreational, educational and waterfront asset. Many organizations, government agencies and nonprofits are all collaborating to clean up the Anacostia and its watershed, and progress is being made each year. I want to thank all these groups for their commitment to and perseverance in this mission. Central Park is an icon of New York and a great benefit to the citizens of that city; it is the breathing space that they need, but also the great green space in which to attend concerts, picnic, run, roller blade, bike, walk, play sports, and visit cultural attractions in one of the great urban parks in the US. The Anacostia River corridor, wetlands and park spaces have the opportunity to be just as significant to our city – and to create recreational, economic, tourism, water quality, and healthy community benefits for us all in the process. The Anacostia River corridor is in the beginning stages of becoming a significant linear green space and river corridor to our city that allows us to breathe, to engage the water, to enjoy recreational and educational activities, to exercise, and just to be outdoors and escape the heat and humidity. It is a grand vision of which we are starting to see the initial achievements. There is much more to come, and the clean-up of the river will take another 15-20 years. But it will be worth the wait as a healthy river and wetlands environs makes for healthy communities. And to paraphrase Daniel Burnham, the architect of Union Station – “Make no little plans for they have no power to inspire our imagination.” H
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h streetlife by Elise Bernard
I
t’s officially summer in DC. That means serious heat and humidity. Luckily, H Street has plenty of great spots to cool off and relax with a summery cocktail. For the younger set, the park at Joe Cole Community Center (1200 block of Morse Street NE) now boasts a spray park.
Maketto Combines Street Food with Streetwear
laid back atmosphere, tasty soul food offerings, and a BYOB policy (a $3 corkage fee per person applies).
Fever Bar and Lounge Heats Up the H Street Corridor
Phase of the Popularise (https://popularise.com) experiment has ended, and the team behind WestMill Capital has selected a tenant for their building at 1351 H Street NE. Popularise offered community memHR-57 offers live jazz and soul food at their new space. bers a way to suggest ideas, and voice their support for different concepts to fill the space. The ultimate pick is hours on weekend nights. The new venture is sure Maketto, which combines food, drink, and retail. to be a welcome addition to H Street NE’s growIt’s a collaboration between Toki Underground’s ing restaurant scene. (2nd floor of 1234 H Street NE) Erik BrunerYang, and the guys behind the men’s fashion line HR-57 Now Open at New H Street NE Location DURKL (http://www.durkl.com). Local live jazz bar HR-57 has opened up in its They’ve described the place as a sort of “new new space at 1007 H Street NE. The new locaage Eastern Market.” This much is clear; they tion offers a great deal more will have cocktails, Asian street food, donuts, room than its old home. and clothing for sale. The collaborators hope to It also boasts an open air create an attraction that will be active, both dur- component. Aside from the ing the day, and at night. The mix of offerings is normal performance and highly unconventional, but this could be its great- viewing space, the new spot est strength. A DURKL flagship store was one of has a front room with more the first ideas floated for the space. It was popular doors and windows that can with online voters, and would have answered the open up to the street. The frequently heard pleas for additional retail along result is that you can enjoy the H Street NE Corridor. But concerns about your live jazz, and watch the daytime foot traffic posed tough questions. A show, but still feel a connecpartnership with Bruner-Yang made sense be- tion to the nightlife on the cause his food could potentially bring in new street outside. HR-57 recustomers stopping by for lunch. Bruner-Yang is tains the familiar elements already well established on H Street NE, as well that have long made it an as in the larger DC culinary scene. His ramen bar attractive bet, namely, afToki Underground frequently has waits up 2-3 fordably priced live jazz in a
Fever Bar and Lounge has inherited HR-57’s most recent digs (816 H Street NE). Like HR-57, they serve soul food. Unlike HR-57, they seem more geared towards a dj scene. Expect to find mostly cuts from the 1970s through the 1990s. Oh, and they have a dance floor.
Big Plans at Ben’s Chili Bowl on H Street NE
Rooftop decks are all the rage these days, and the family owned Ben’s Chili Bowl (http://www.benschilibowl.com) plans to get in on the action with its H Street space (1001 H Street NE). At a recent ANC meeting a representative announced plans to construct a rooftop deck with seating for 49. They also plan a 34 seat patio. Inside, they’ll be able to accommodate 132 patrons. This one’s still a while out, but the plans sound quite promising.
Local artist JoJo works on one of his paintings during Art in the Alley. Photo: Erika Castillo
74 H HillRag | July 2012
Shawafel was one of three local restaurants to make Washingtonian’s Cheap Eats list.
Manny & Olga’s Headed to H Street NE
The regional chain Manny and Olga’s recently announced plans to open a location on the H Street Corridor. They offer Greek influenced pizzas and submarine sandwiches for delivery. They have yet to identify the exact location, but it adds to the selection of local delivery options for those nights you just aren’t motivated to cook.
Trinidad’s Art in the Alley Stages a Second Act
Roughly 150 people turned out for Trinidad’s second Art in the Alley (http:// artinthealleydc.wordpress.com). Several local artists displayed their work while two local djs provided musical accompaniment. There was even an opportunity for attendees to complete paintings begun by local artist JoJo.
Three H Street Spots Make Washingtonian’s Cheap Eats List
The Washingtonian’s annual Cheap Eats issue always garners plenty of attention, and three H Street NE spots made the list of 100 local places that are easy on the wallet. Shawafel’s (http://www.shawafeldc. com, 1322 H Street NE) Lebanese sandwiches have been popular since the place first opened, and your vegan and vegetarian friends will love the selection. Local ramen house Toki Underground (http://tokiunderground.com, 2nd floor of 1234 H Street NE) is no stranger to good press. The tra-
ditional tonkotsu broth, and the dumplings both bring out the crowds. The third spot to make the list is Ethiopic (http://www. ethiopicrestaurant.com, 401 H Street NE), which was also named one of Washingtonian’s Best 100 Restaurants 2012.
Chef Corner Café Now Open
Located at 802 13th Street NE, Chef Corner Café serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day from 7am-10pm. Offerings range from rotisserie chicken, to sandwiches, to a full breakfast menu sprinkled with omelets and waffles. Though it currently operates primarily as a carryout, the owner told me that he plans to add a patio seating component shortly.
Farewell to Zuppa Fresca and Fruit Bat
Zuppa Fresca (250 K Street NE), the young Italian restaurant operating out of the first floor of the Loree Grand (http:// www.loreegranddc.com), abruptly closed its doors last month citing irreconcilable differences with its landlord. Over on H Street, Fruit Bat (1st floor of 1236 H Street NE) served its last fresh squeezed cocktail. Owner Erik Holzherr, who also owns Church and State (2nd floor of 1236 H Street NE) and Wisdom, plans to replace Fruit Bat with a new bar this month. You can follow the new bar on Twitter (@MysteryBarDC). 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. H
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Pop-Up Retail And The Beach On 8th Street by Sharon Bosworth
R
ecently we were introduced to an up-to-the-minute idea that mixes the remains of the old, pre-recession good times with some tricks of the new century. The name of this game is pop-up retail. And it’s happening on 8th Street. The old temporary concept store (think Christmas tree stands) has grown new legs with the spread of social media. Throw in the growth of Internet shopping and the ability of smart phones to take credit card sales and, voila: pop-up retail stores are now overnight happenings.
tabula rasa In Latin is “Blank Slate”
Riding the crest of this wave here on Barracks Row, we recently welcomed our first event space, an on-purpose empty store front, just
waiting to be rented short term. Its name tells the tale: tabula rasa or “blank slate” in Latin. The concept for tabula rasa, 731 8th Street, SE came from Amanda Clarke, who works with husband, Cable Clarke, at Clarke Consulting, 731 8th Street, SE, Suite 202, which is dedicated to coaching organizations and government agencies through culture change. For those keeping score, this is the same Amanda Clarke who cofounded Boogie Babes, the group which brings children’s musical performances to Eastern Market’s North Hall on Thursdays and to ATLAS on Fridays and some Saturday mornings. Amanda and Cable Clarke, who have three small children and a typical space-challenged Capitol Hill household, use venues outside their home regularly for
The exterior of tabular rasa displaying the Periwinkle pop-up sign. Photo: Andrew Lightman Amanda Clarke and the Periwinkle pop-up at tabula rasa. Photo: Andrew Lightman 78 H HillRag | July 2012
“With the DC family and social events. Early on Amanda felt the logic of parking lot (under the freeway) just an aesthetically pleasing event and a block away plus Metro, the Circupop-up space. “Pop ups may be the way of the future” noted Clarke, “especially for online retailers who are challenged to get noticed and to get products to their potential customers to see and feel. Rents keep going up and pop ups offer product visibility to a new and varied population for a short term at a low price. They also offer established boutiques a chance to test new markets. ” Then there’s the synergy of social media – both her own efforts to promote tabula rasa and the social media reach of those who use her space. “It does not confuse people at all that we are a candy store one weekend, a jewelry store the next, Siners enjoy the expansive rooftop of Pacifico and last weekend we Cantina which opened recently at 514 8th Street, were Periwinkle - a SE. Photo: Andrew Lightman woman’s clothing boutique. We are tabula rasa, our lator and regular city bus service all customers want and expect on 8th Street, we are easy to get to,” to be surprised by us and continued Clarke. There are many they check our website to potential customers who spot tabula see what we have each week- rasa as they drive or walk by on erend. With new offerings and rands. “We are getting phone calls events at tabula rasa every from political organizations, those week, different groups of who sell products and even nonconsumers who are on the profits who see our sign and want to mailing lists of those busi- use our space for a few hours, or a nesses keep discovering us.” day or two.” Though the roots of pop up Up-coming events include a meal planning workshop, a stores lay in long vacant retail spacbook signing and quite a few es, tabula rasa is the polar opposite. First, polar – everything in this grown-up birthday parties.
space is pristine white. Nothing battered or shabby to be seen, the space glows with chic sparkle. Light filters in through the luminous picture window on 8th Street; the window-wall facing the charming courtyard delivers even more light. The finishes are sustainable, the floors are white cork, the seating is white leather, the ceilings are white but with the twist of an LED button, they can glow red, yellow, green or anything in between.
The Beach on Barracks Row
There must be something to that whiteon-white color scheme. This past weekend another new establishment-wrapped-inwhite opened on 8th Street, SE. Pacifico Cantina, 514 8th Street, SE, made its debut on Saturday, June 16. An investor group led by Xavier Cervera developed the Pacifico Cantina concept. The opening was magical: it was a perfect 75 degrees with full sun and very low humidity. The happy crowd on the expansive roof deck enthusiastically discovered the delicious Baja inspired menu; as the breeze swayed the red umbrellas you could almost hear the surf ! There’s really no place like Pacifico Cantina in DC or for miles around until you hit the bay beaches.
We Need YOU to Sustain the Momentum
keting and the International Dairy Foods Association for their generous support. We further salute our Gold, Silver and Bronze sponsors. Because of them we are able to continue our mission to bring prosperity to all five blocks of Barracks Row. To our party guests, along with the entire Capitol Hill corporate and residential community, we send our heartfelt appreciation. By working together we have been privileged to foster the rebirth of the oldest commercial corridor in the federal city. On our watch, 8th Street, SE has been transformed from a blighted, under-used connector to a destination for boutique shopping and international dining. Owners of new establishments like tabula Rasa and Pacifico Cantina are attracted
As summer at the actuTip Tipton, president of Barracks Row Main Street, welcomes supal shore or at its 8th Street, porters at the annual Garden Party. Photo: Andrew Lightman SE, counterpart beckons, here’s a question: what was the Best DC Party in spring of 2012? We nominate the Barracks to 8th Street, SE, and then add their compelRow Garden Party. On June 7, under a huge ling offerings to Barracks Row’s mix of urban tent in the garden, our annual fundraiser un- adventures. Together we have built today’s 8th folded at historic Deer House hosted by Tip Street experience to new levels of satisfaction. and Connie Tipton. Guests had the opportu- Visitors return year after year to sample the exnity to meet the chefs of five of our 8th Street citement of our ever evolving transformation. To learn more about us (maybe the date restaurants and sample their best recipes. They of next year’s Garden Party?), or to volunalso could meet neighbors, local and national teer for one of the events hosted by Barpoliticians, members of the Capitol Hill busiracks Row Main Street, send your contact ness community and officers of Marine Barinformation to info@barracksrow.org or call racks Washington. 202-544-3188. We need you. It takes a vilWe thank our Platinum Sponsors: Nalage to make a Main Street! H tional Capital Bank, CSX, Minerva Mar-
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BYwest
SOUTH
Tiber Island Historic Designation Favored at Hearing
T
iber Island Co-ops and Condominiums is the latest residential complex in Southwest to seek historic designation. The Southwest Neighborhood Assembly (SWNA) submitted an application last fall at the request of the Boards of the Co-Op and Condominium communities to be nominated to the District and National historic registers. Designed by the architecture firm Keyes, Lethbridge & Condon and built between 1963-65, Tiber Island comprises 8.4 acres and is situated south of M Street SW between 6 th Street SW and 4th Street SW, north of N Street SW. Tiber Island was originally designed as rental
by William Rich apartments and townhomes, but over time became two entities – a co-op containing four high-rise towers and townhomes near the center of the development, with the remaining townhomes primarily along the perimeter under condominium ownership. The four towers form a pinwheel around a central plaza and the townhomes are placed in a manner that creates a series of courtyards and passageways throughout the community. On the west side of the complex is a Great Lawn and adjacent to it is the Thomas Law House, which was built in 1794 and now serves as a community center (it was listed in the National Register of Historic
Places in 1973). In the application, a couple of the arguments used to merit designation under the National Register’s Criterion A (The property is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad pattern of our history) include: • Its construction was a significant step in the redevelopment of Southwest Washington in accordance with the principles of modem urban planning, including effective use of green space and mixed housing types. It was the first such redevelopment project to be created by an entirely local design and development team, and marks the beginning
Tiber Island was one of the first residential buildings constructed south of M Street SW as a result of urban renewal in the 1950s and 1960s. Photo: William Rich 80 H HillRag | July 2012
of Washington’s recognition as an incubator of first-rate architectural talent in the face of previous disrespect and skepticism. • It was the focus of a pioneering effort to expand and enforce the concept of open housing prior to the passage of the 1965 Fair Housing bill. In addition, the application states some reasons for designation under Criterion C (Property embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction or represents the work of a master, or possesses high artistic values, or represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components lack individual distinction) such as: • Provides an outstanding example of modernist architecture and urbanism. It represents a unique fusion of architecture, modem construction technology, landscape architecture, and community planning. It was an outstanding model for the appearance and development of the District of Columbia and the nation, and has been cited as such by architectural critics and commentators since it was built. • Possesses high artistic or aesthetic values, as illustrated by the accolades and awards it has received. Of particular significance is the AlA “First Award” received in 1966, with such masterpieces as Eero Saarinen Associates’ Dulles Airport Terminal and CBS Headquarters cited as peers. A public hearing was held on May 24 by the Historic Preservation Review Board to consider the Tiber Island application. One of the homeowners who testified in favor of designation was Cecille Chen. “I fell in love with Tiber Island the very first
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Thomas Law House is a part of Tiber Island and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. Photo: William Rich
moment that we saw it,” said Chen, who with her husband searched all over the District for a home. “We really love the aesthetic aspects of it – no building faces directly into another building, there is a sense of luxurious space, all this glass, the clean lines all really appeal to us.” Chen also serves as president of the condominium board and has worked with SWNA on the Southwest DC Heritage Project, which in recent months commemorated the 100th anniversary of the Titanic tragedy with a large event at the Titanic memorial on the Southwest Waterfront. Other parties in favor included a representative from the Tiber Island Cooperative board, as well as Andy Litsky, Chair of Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6D, which voted unanimously to support the application last year, and Kael Anderson, President of SWNA. Not everyone present at the hearing was in favor – opponents of the designation were mainly residents of Tiber Island Condominiums, who were concerned about needing to change the bylaws of the condo association if their property was deemed historic. Another concern from opponents was the process was being rushed and was done without the consent of the majority of condo owners. However, one of the HPRB members said that to be considered for inclusion in the District’s Register of Historic
Places, owner consent is not necessary (although majority consent is needed for inclusion in the National Register). Ultimately, the Board was unanimous in its support of the application, with some members urging the Historic Preservation Office and community to consider creating a Southwest Historic District. Members thought a piecemeal approach to historic designation was not the best route and that creating a historic district would be a better option. For instance, Potomac Place Tower at 800 4th Street SW was designated by the HPRB as historic in 2003, while Harbour Square Cooperatives has an application pending for historic designation. River Park is about to celebrate its 50th anniversary and other residential buildings in Southwest are approaching the half century mark, which makes it easier to apply for historic designation. Whether there is enough community support to create a historic district in Southwest is uncertain – the Historic Preservation Office staff members do not feel that there is sufficient support yet since there is still some debate whether the wholesale removal of a community in the guise of urban renewal should be commemorated with a historic district. William Rich is a blogger at Southwest… The Little Quadrant that Could (www. southwestquadrant.blogspot.com). H
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@ Your Service - PETS
W
Heather Schoell hat do Capitol Hill people love more than anything? Pets! July is the Pet Issue, and to celebrate, we’re focusing 100% of our @ Your Service attention on our fluffiest, furriest family members – the ones that don’t talk back! The ones that ply us with doleful eyes at mealtimes (instead of the ones that frown at what’s for dinner!. The ones who guard us, catch the creepy crawly intruders, and the ones that sit regally on the arm of the couch (even though we keep pushing them off ). Dear pets, we love you!
Spot On Training Heather Morris, CPDT-KA 508 H St. NE (202) 629-2967 spotondogtrainingdc.com
Heather Morris has her Spot On Training studio in the lower level of Metro Mutts’ H St. location – you can find her giving classes there or in a local park. Heather is a nationally recognized Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed®, which means she has fulfilled rigorous requirements on animal behavior, interpersonal skills, and must continue her education. Her advice to dog owners is to figure out their personal philosophy to dog training – essentially old school domination (showing your dog who’s boss by force and intimidation) verses a friendlier science-based model – a more humane, efficient, and effective method of training. Heather provides the latter, helping dog owners set boundaries and develop successful communication strategies with their dogs. Heather and her husband live on the Hill with their Dalmatians Chiazzo and Lottie. Spot On Training was voted Best Pet Service, Washington City Paper Best Of 2011 and Best Pet Care, Washingtonian 2011. Heather of Spot On Training with her own dog, Lottie. Photo: H. Schoell.
The Doggy Lama Bonny King-Taylor (866) 821-9386 thedoggylama.com
Bonny King-Taylor is all about solutions. After the devastating loss of her old companion Bartleby, Bonny’s new dog Cagney has brought with him some, um, challenges – the upside of which is that Bonny has a refreshed perspective of dog behavior, she is re-energized, and has honed new skills. Cagney is a living example of what Bonny does – integrating a new dog into the home. As in his case, Bonny had a set of expectations that were different from the “in the moment” reality as she calls it; Cagney is not Bartleby, and Bonny needs to navigate that. For her clients, she assesses the reality in-home, formulating a personalized plan to fit lifestyles and skill levels. Another integration service that Bonny provides is setting up a successful scenario when there’s a baby on the way. This is best done BEFORE the baby comes, so humans and canines can practice new routines before energy is depleted and lives are upended!
Bonny and Cagney in front of Eastern Market. Photo: H. Schoell 82 H HillRag | July 2012
The Big Bad Woof Pennye Jones-Napier and Julie Paez 117 Carroll St. NW, Tacoma Park (202) 291-2404 5501 Baltimore Ave., Hyattsville MD, (301) 403-8957 thebigbadwoof.com
Once upon a time, Pennye Jones-Napier and Julie Paez opened an organic and holistic pet care store in DC called The Big Bad Woof, and this store grew to an additional store in Hyattsville, and that store was so successful that this Hyattsville store became a franchise example and training center for other stores to open in the mid-Atlantic. Pennye became one of the largest retailers of raw and locally-sourced foods and treats for pets. In fact, she even carries Gringa Loca treats made right here on Capitol Hill! Pennye used her retail power for good, with both stores being Certified B Corps, a global community standard that works to better society through better business. The Big Bad Woof is committed to helping the community, and does so in many ways. On July 15, BBW will co-sponsor a free screening of FRESH at the Hyattsville Busboys and Poets. Go to thebigbadwoof.com for more info. The end. Pennye and store dog YaYa in The Big Bad Woof of Tacoma Park. Photo courtesy BBW.
Dog Dot Cat, LLC Diana Hibbs and Magic Payne (202) 388-8111 dogdotcat.com
Mother/daughter team of Dog Dot Cat. Photo: H. Schoell.
Diana Hibbs and her daughter Magic Payne started a full-service dog-walking and pet-sitting business together when Magic left her job after four years with a local petsitting company. Diana was a piano teacher, and got into dog walking when she wasn’t teaching. Magic has always loved animals, according to her mom, and so it was a logical step to become partners in their own pet-sitting and dog-walking business. With their combined experience of 12 years, they work with big and little dogs, dogs that are sweet enough to board in Diana’s home, as well as dogs that take a lot of time and patience to get to know (and experienced dog walkers to handle). Diana and Magic love the flexibility of their job, and love that they can work with animals and be on the Hill, where they have lived since 1995. Neighbors of mine and long-time Dog Dot Cat clients tell me that they haven’t physically seen Diana or Magic in years – they haven’t needed to because their dogs have been happy and all has been well. Dog Dot Cat is licensed, bonded, and insured.
DogMa - Rebecca Bisgyer 821 Virginia Ave., SE (202) 543-7805 • dog-ma.com
Rebecca Bisgyer used to be a corporate kind of girl, but after too much time in the office and on travel, and too much separation anxiety in her dogs, she struck out on her own. Bringing her corporate acumen together with her love of dogs, she created DogMa, DC’s first daycare to offer the concept of a group play environment for dogs with all-day supervision, plus on-site staff around the clock for boarding – great for those weekend getaways when your pup can’t come with you. With 14 years of experience administered by a dedicated staff of dog-loving employees who know each and every dog like their very own, DogMa also is DC’s ONLY group play facility that can offer doggy play both indoors and out. They have a 7,000 sq. ft. (!) outdoor dog-park-sized playground with equipment, toys, and doggy pools for the pack to chase, wrestle and cavort, so “parents” can see their dogs at play as soon as they enter the gates, as opposed to the dogs being taken to a unseen location. DogMa also offers dog training and baths. First time clients get 50% off their first boarding stay of 3 or more nights (blackout dates apply, including holidays and August) or a free bath after 7 days of daycare!
“@ 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. H
Steven of CIS has a solid Hill clientele. Photo courtesy CIS.
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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. Neighborhood
Close Price
BR
FEE SIMPLE 16TH STREET HEIGHTS 5715 16TH ST NW 1409 INGRAHAM ST NW 1535 UPSHUR ST NW 1209 INGRAHAM ST NW 1339 KENNEDY ST NW
$950,000 $751,000 $694,500 $490,000 $282,000
5 6 3 3 3
AMERICAN UNIVERSITY PARK 4221 VAN NESS ST NW 4615 ELLICOTT ST NW 4616 48TH ST NW
$1,100,000 $1,023,000 $772,500
ANACOSTIA 1514 23RD ST SE 1325 RIDGE PL SE 2325 CHESTER ST SE 1514 16TH ST SE 1922 15TH ST SE
$289,900 $200,000 $175,000 $109,000 $63,000
BARRY FARMS 2327 15TH PL SE
$55,000
BLOOMINGDALE 2010 1ST ST NW 78 S ST NW 128 THOMAS ST NW
$800,000 $780,000 $652,000
BRIGHTWOOD 1507 VAN BUREN ST NW 6217 14TH ST NW 502 RITTENHOUSE ST NW 1346 RITTENHOUSE ST NW 7425 7TH ST NW 5803 3RD PL NW 759 GERANIUM ST NW 6108 9TH ST NW 516 SOMERSET PL NW 6315 9TH ST NW 518 ONEIDA PL NW 608 TEWKESBURY PL NW 518 RITTENHOUSE ST NW
$589,900 $530,000 $424,000 $414,000 $395,000 $373,000 $361,250 $340,000 $300,000 $299,900 $299,000 $275,000 $245,000
BROOKLAND 3412 17TH ST NE 1352 GIRARD ST NE 1807 MONROE ST NE 4010 12TH ST NE 1431 JACKSON ST NE 743 DECATUR ST NE 2432 2ND ST NE 4803 8TH ST NE 204 ADAMS ST NE 2407 3RD ST NE
$615,000 $490,000 $475,000 $435,000 $400,000 $350,000 $322,400 $250,000 $225,000 $170,000
CAPITOL HILL 130 11TH ST SE 204 5TH ST SE 152 NORTH CAROLINA AVE SE 326 5TH ST SE 517 7TH ST SE 109 6TH ST NE 404 6TH ST SE 1342 SOUTH CAROLINA AVE SE 1007 CONSTITUTION AVE NE 815 8TH ST NE 709 7TH ST NE 507 10TH ST SE 640 ACKER PL NE 431 5TH ST SE
84 H HillRag | July 2012
$1,240,000 $1,125,000 $1,052,000 $928,591 $860,000 $860,000 $850,000 $835,000 $820,000 $810,000 $762,000 $739,900 $712,000 $710,000
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HOT HILL HOME SALES Call us today for expert guidance on your purchase or sale! !
614 E ST SE 212 F ST NE 407 4TH ST NE 303 11TH ST SE 204 14TH ST NE 645 MORRIS PL NE 106 9TH ST SE 1358 D ST SE 333 17TH ST SE 337 16TH ST SE 1424 DUNCAN ST NE 912 I ST NE 127 16TH ST NE 680 9TH ST SW
$649,000 $638,750 $636,000 $631,000 $610,000 $600,000 $599,000 $595,000 $508,000 $499,500 $482,500 $426,000 $407,000 $785,000
CHEVY CHASE 3319 TENNYSON ST NW 5428 NEVADA AVE NW 4203 INGOMAR ST NW 5015 41ST ST NW 3028 OLIVER ST NW 3527 QUESADA ST NW 3221 MILITARY RD NW 5231 CONNECTICUT AVE NW 3933 GARRISON ST NW 3055 OLIVER ST NW 3507 LIVINGSTON ST NW 5025 42ND ST NW 5379 NEVADA AVE NW 6021 WESTERN AVE NW 7055 WYNDALE ST NW 5616 NEBRASKA AVE NW 4105 ELLICOTT ST NW
$1,220,000 $1,160,000 $1,049,000 $984,900 $975,000 $972,900 $899,000 $875,000 $866,500 $855,000 $800,000 $769,000 $729,000 $650,000 $625,000 $570,000 $540,000
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912 EYE St. SE 2BR/2.5BA + studio $720,000
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Literally STEPS from Barracks Row shops and restaurants awaits this 1850s Federal-front Classic! Tall ceilings and historic features blend seamlessly with renovated kitchen and 2 baths. Finished LL den w/ walk-out plus BONUS carriage house GARAGE with studio loft above. In between, an enchanting private garden! ! G LD TIN S O I S L RE FO E B
250 8th St., SE, 3BR/2BA $825,000
515 ½ 6th St. SE, 2BR+Den/1BA Four Levels $673,000 One-of-a-kind historic interior spaces meet magnificent modern touches in this 1850s row home just two blocks from bustling Barracks Row. Lovingly-restored original textures under foot and all around, but with the convenience of new kitchen and bath, systems and fixtures…a gem at the heart of the Hill!
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SOLD before listing! Beautiful Victorian bay front with large living room with woodburning FP, renovated cherry and Silestone kitchen, 3 large BRs, updated BAs, large lower level family room with huge storage area, and a lovely rear patio…all facing Eastern Market!
716 15th St., SE 3BR/2BA $629,000 Large Federal porch front with a beautifully renovated kitchen and plenty of architectural charm, featuring exposed brick, original doors and transoms, elegant lighting fixtures, a fully finished basement, a sun-filled deck, gorgeous garden, and off-street parking…and only 1½ blocks to Metro!
CHILLUM 22 JEFFERSON ST NE 6516 BLAIR RD NW 6128 BLAIR RD NW
$285,000 $280,000 $261,400
CLEVELAND PARK 3111 MACOMB ST NW 3846 WOODLEY RD NW 3416 30TH ST NW 3097 ORDWAY ST NW 3704 35TH ST NW 3612 NEWARK ST NW
$1,750,000 $1,623,500 $1,150,000 $1,050,000 $855,000 $852,000
COLONIAL VILLAGE 1701 JUNIPER ST NW 1736 HOLLY ST NW 2257 SUDBURY RD NW
$1,250,000 $1,130,000 $640,000
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 1314 KENYON ST NW 2619 13TH ST NW 1437 CLIFTON ST NW 3513 HOLMEAD PL NW 903 MONROE ST NW 1321 OTIS PL NW 2803 11TH ST NW 3530 10TH ST NW 469 LURAY PL NW 3660 PARK PL NW 736 GIRARD ST NW 3325 11TH ST NW 741 IRVING ST NW 606 HARVARD ST NW 445 LAMONT ST NW
$1,275,000 $881,400 $859,900 $749,000 $618,000 $605,000 $599,000 $595,000 $530,000 $515,000 $505,650 $459,000 $449,500 $325,000 $261,500
CONGRESS HEIGHTS 823 CHESAPEAKE ST SE 1200 BARNABY TER SE 504 CHESAPEAKE ST SE 29 DANBURY ST SW
$205,000 $189,000 $184,500 $160,000
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707 7th St. NE, 3BR/2.5BA $749,000 Stunning modern loft hidden behind proud Victorian facade. Custom oneof-a-kind design with open floor plan and staircase, exposed brick throughout, and steel beams and railings. Gorgeous home in exciting location just steps from the shops, theaters, and cafes of the H Street corridor.
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1615 D St. SE, 3BR/2BA $639,000 Located in the heart of the hot Hill East neighborhood, this newly – renovated Federal porch front features an open floor plan, a spectacular modern kitchen, gleaming hard wood floors, new bathrooms, a fully finished lower level, and deep backyard with parking.
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capitalcommunitynews.com H 85
Location, Location, Location 503 2nd Street NE Commercial $1,500,000
Prestigious location on Historic Capitol Hill at Senate, across from US Judiciary Bldg & Union Station. 2 story + English Basement brick bay front townhouse office of approx 2214 sf well designed offices for lobbyist, non profits, law firms etc. Property zoned C2A & Certificate of Occupancy for office use. Flexible floor plan offers large reception/entry lobby, 7 offices, conference room, 2.5 baths, 2 kitchenettes, gas fireplace, exterior flagstone patio for entertaining. This kind of property so close in is seldom on market. Metro, rail, & 15 min. to National Airport.
316 F Street NE Commercial Lease
6402 Square Feet available in increments from 165 SF up. Various suites on second level available. Lower Level available at 2000 SF. Beautifully renovated building with high ceilings, large windows, marble lobby. Grand presence. Strategic location on historic Capitol Hill at 3rd and F Street NE just blocks to Union Station, US Capitol, Senate side, SEC building, and commercial & retail corridor. 15 minutes to Reagan National Airport. 2 blocks to Metro/Rail/Bus
152 NORTH CAROLINA AVE SE $979,000 SOLD!
Prime location! Library of Congress next door + Folger Park& Providence Parks, near schools and gyms. Wide Ave & deep front landscaped yard. Enter Living Room, wd fireplace + built ins, center stair, heart pine floors, sep. DR. PR, renovated Kitchen w/ SS appl. Cherry cab, marble counters & sunny family room w/ gas fireplace. & glass doors to rose filled garden, brick patio/planting area and garage. 3 BR's, skylights, new HVAC. 1BR rental unit w/C of O. Beautiful charming home in historic Capitol Hill at US Capitol.
1352 North Carolina Ave NE UNDER CONTRACT
Lincoln Park a block away! Located on wide tree lined avenue. 3 Bedroom, 1 Bath porch front home with old world charm, heart pine floors, CAC. Spacious kitchen with W/D. Second level 2 bedrooms plus large Master Bedroom with Elfa outfitted closet, 3 large windows with Southern exposure. Attic access for seasonal storage. Deep landscaped front yard, and paved rear patio & garden. A quick walk to Eastern Market and metro
Kitty Kaupp & Tati Kaupp Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage 605 Pennsylvania Ave SE 202-255-0952 • 202-255-6913 kkaupp@cbmove.com
www.kittykaupp.com 86 H HillRag | July 2012
HOMES THAT SHOW BETTER SELL BETTER WITH
JT POWELL!
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5546 5th Street NW: Petworth. 3br 2 bath renovated Federal w/ covered off-street parking, fully finished basement, SpacePak high velocity central air system, new kitchen with top-of-theline appliances. Sold for $356,500
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View Our Marketing Online at www.JTPowell.com/ marketing
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622 3rd Street NE: Capitol Hill. Large 4br 3 bath Victorian tower with huge yard, metered bsmt rental unit, 2 fireplaces, 2 blocks to Union Station, coffee shops and eats. $797,000
87 DANBURY ST SW $160,000 2 CRESTWOOD 4811 BLAGDEN AVE NW $839,000 6
DEANWOOD 29 53RD ST SE 5328 AMES ST NE 102 36TH ST NE 27 55TH ST SE 5212 EAST CAPITOL ST NE 800 DIVISION AVE NE 4925 LEE ST NE 1047 48TH ST NE
$379,000 $238,000 $218,000 $216,000 $130,000 $68,000 $65,000 $42,500
DUPONT 1311 S ST NW 1727 WILLARD ST NW 1444 T ST NW 1446 Q ST NW
$1,210,000 $1,190,000 $738,000 $1,150,000
ECKINGTON 118 QUINCY PL NE 14 T ST NW 46 FRANKLIN ST NE 37 R ST NW
$639,900 $450,000 $489,000 $690,000
FOREST HILLS the lights are much brighter here...
221 Seaton Place NE: Eckington. 3br 2.5 bath updated renovated Federal with newer kitchen and baths, fabulous rear garden, plus a bsmt in-law suite offering rental income potential. $475,900
JT Powell – Coldwell Banker 1606 17th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009 202-465-2357 Direct 202-478-0347 Fax info@JTPowell.com
Your Neighbor On The Hill
“The road to success is not always straight; let me help you through the real estate maze to a happy and successful destination”
Deborah Charlton
Long and Foster Realtors Christie’s Great Estates
(202) 415-2117 (202) 944-8400 DC.DC@LongandFoster.com www.yourneighboronthehill.com
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2739 CHESAPEAKE ST NW 5128 LINNEAN TER NW
$1,170,000 $835,000
FORT DUPONT PARK 4419 A ST SE 4314 GORMAN TER SE 4250 HILDRETH ST SE 1100 46TH PL SE 4242 SOUTHERN AVE SE
$280,000 $185,000 $109,000 $72,500 $66,500
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FOXHALL 4450 Q ST NW
$745,000
GEORGETOWN 1615 35TH ST NW 1242 POTOMAC ST NW 1248 31ST ST NW 1646 32ND ST NW 1214 30TH ST NW 2910 R ST NW 1411 33RD ST NW 1319 28TH ST NW 1402 30TH ST NW 1230 28TH ST NW 1404 27TH ST NW 2516 MILL RD NW
$3,025,000 $2,525,000 $2,345,000 $1,775,000 $1,725,000 $1,350,000 $1,295,000 $1,030,000 $958,750 $715,000 $670,000 $570,000
GLOVER PARK 2231 HALL PL NW
$996,000
H STEET/CAPITOL HILL 1636 ROSEDALE ST NE
$549,000
HILL CREST 3713 SUITLAND RD SE 3139 O ST SE 3818 CARPENTER ST SE 3336 DENVER ST SE
$388,000 $360,000 $350,000 $315,000
HILLANDALE 4044 CHANCERY CT NW
$1,100,000
KALORAMA 2202 KALORAMA RD NW $2,025,000 1818 24TH ST NW $1,739,000 2351 ASHMEAD PL NW $1,375,000 2334 19TH ST NW $980,000 LOGAN CIRCLE 1111 R ST NW $557,000 1458 CHURCH ST NW $732,000
MANOR PARK 5606 KANSAS AVE NW
$250,499
MARSHALL HEIGHTS 5352 CALL PL SE
$290,000
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5044 HANNA PL SE 734 51ST ST SE 119 47TH ST SE 4706 BASS PL SE
$230,000 $181,000 $75,000 $70,000
MICHIGAN PARK 1800 UPSHUR ST NE 1729 BUCHANAN ST NE 4101 19TH ST NE
$430,000 $335,000 $320,000
MOUNT PLEASANT 3200 17TH ST NW 1847 LAMONT ST NW 3349 18TH ST NW 1816 ONTARIO PL NW 1801 IRVING ST NW 2026 KLINGLE RD NW 1638 MONROE ST NW 1853 NEWTON ST NW
$1,250,000 $1,061,000 $1,015,500 $960,000 $950,000 $850,000 $785,000 $729,000
NEXT TO TAKOMA PARK 821 DOGWOOD ST NW
$526,000
OBSERVATORY CIRCLE 2804 36TH ST NW 2712 36TH ST NW
$2,275,000 $1,476,000
OLD CITY #1 & #2 238 KENTUCKY AVE SE 710 G ST NE 418 5TH ST NE 315 18TH ST SE 412 K ST NE 1210 INDEPENDENCE AVE SE 259 TENNESSEE AVE NE 429 13TH ST NE 131 16TH ST NE 631 14TH PL NE 1716 D ST SE 1229 F ST NE 1524 NORTH CAROLINA AVE NE 1529 K ST SE 1167 ABBEY PL NE 1402 MASSACHUSETTS AVE SE 437 19TH ST NE 335 18TH ST NE 44 NEW YORK AVE NW 1844 8TH ST NW 27 N ST NW
$800,000 $749,999 $749,000 $680,000 $680,000 $676,500 $649,000 $635,000 $630,000 $610,000 $575,000 $500,000 $390,000 $389,000 $368,000 $335,000 $237,750 $235,000 $624,000 $605,000 $350,000
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Prime Office & retail OPPOrtunity! lOcated at 660 Pennsylvania ave se
fOr mOre infOrmatiOn, cOntact stantOn develOPment
202-544-6666
Kitty KauPP & Ken GOldinG KKauPP@cbmOve.cOm
PALISADES 2408 CHAIN BRIDGE RD NW 1412 FOXHALL RD NW 5000 V ST NW
$815,000 $780,000 $710,000
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PETWORTH 4101 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW 4403 5TH ST NW 4907 9TH ST NW 903 ALLISON ST NW 4723 GEORGIA AVE NW 5229 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW 817 FARRAGUT ST NW 5107 8TH ST NW 739 MADISON ST NW 4421 9TH ST NW 54 FARRAGUT PL NW 539 SHEPHERD ST NW 5233 KANSAS AVE NW 741 VARNUM ST NW 424 ALLISON ST NW 5301 4TH ST NW 4620 4TH ST NW 4710 8TH ST NW 727 KENNEDY ST NW 201 JEFFERSON ST NW 4924 3RD ST NW
$647,500 $565,000 $550,000 $500,000 $474,900 $462,000 $434,500 $419,500 $399,999 $345,000 $334,650 $334,000 $325,500 $325,000 $300,000 $279,500 $271,000 $245,000 $240,000 $190,050 $180,000
RANDLE HEIGHTS 1934 GOOD HOPE RD SE 2471 ALABAMA AVE SE
$224,900 $45,000
RIGGS PARK 5417 8TH ST NE
$234,000
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capitalcommunitynews.com H 87
822 OGLETHORPE ST NE 414 OGLETHORPE ST NE 239 OGLETHORPE ST NE
$210,000 $204,500 $201,000
3 3 2
329 RHODE ISLAND AVE NE #105
CAPITOL HILL 1424 C ST SE #2
SHAW 1424 C ST SE #1 415 R ST NW 1725 5TH ST NW
$657,500 $599,000
SHEPHERD PARK 1433 GERANIUM ST NW 1471 ROXANNA RD NW
$818,000 $745,000
TAKOMA PARK 704 BUTTERNUT ST NW 120 WHITTIER ST NW
$589,000 $522,000
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TRINIDAD 1259 OWEN PL NE 1617 TRINIDAD AVE NE 1771 LANG PL NE 1709 LYMAN PL NE 1229 OWEN PL NE 1700 M ST NE
$365,000 $334,000 $302,000 $249,000 $180,000 $180,000
U STREET 2113 12TH PL NW 2110 12TH ST NW 1805 12TH ST NW 939 T ST NW 976 FLORIDA AVE NW
$769,000 $725,000 $699,000 $622,000 $515,000
3 3 4 3 3 3 3 3 2 3 2
WAKEFIELD 3615 CHESAPEAKE ST NW
$1,245,000
WASHINGTON 1211 17TH ST NE
$175,000
WESLEY HEIGHTS 4344 FOREST LN NW 4331 WESTOVER PL NW 4547 LOWELL ST NW
$3,350,000 $875,000 $810,000
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WEST END - FOGGY BOTTOM 1013 24TH ST NW
$965,000
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WOODLEY 3101 CATHEDRAL AVE NW 3222 KLINGLE RD NW
$2,775,000 $1,175,000
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WOODRIDGE
$234,900
218 4TH ST SE #2 721 E ST NE #3 410 5TH ST NE #14 424 EAST CAPITOL ST NE #2 315 G ST NE #202 103 2ND ST NE #103B 1350 E ST NE #1 1323 K ST SE #201 414 SEWARD SQ SE #203
$745,000 $648,000 $488,750 $470,000 $465,000 $399,999 $335,000 $319,000 $265,000 $250,000 $171,000
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CENTRAL 777 7TH ST NW #406 400 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #423 2301 N ST NW #507 1111 25TH ST NW #503 915 E ST NW #703
$485,000 $430,000 $385,000 $366,500 $334,000
CHEVY CHASE 5410 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #819
$253,000
CLEVELAND PARK 3730 39TH ST NW #F162 3720 39TH ST NW #163 3883 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #408 3863 RODMAN ST NW #50 3100 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #113 3010 WISCONSIN AVE NW #107 3010 WISCONSIN AVE NW #409 2755 ORDWAY ST NW #512 3010 WISCONSIN AVE NW #B5
$475,000 $394,000 $355,000 $335,000 $323,000 $273,500 $264,000 $239,000 $212,000
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 1129 COLUMBIA RD NW #200 2809 SHERMAN AVE NW #1 2901 16TH ST NW #102 1465 COLUMBIA RD NW #100 1438 COLUMBIA RD NW #302 1421 COLUMBIA RD NW #B3 1308 CLIFTON ST NW #303 E 1440 COLUMBIA RD NW #405 3900 14TH ST NW #301 1450 HARVARD ST NW #B 1439 EUCLID ST NW #106 3900 14TH ST NW #609 3900 14TH ST NW #608 3534 10TH ST NW #200 718 PARK RD NW #1
$540,000 $422,500 $399,500 $360,000 $328,000 $315,000 $300,000 $300,000 $295,000 $295,000 $260,500 $249,900 $244,900 $229,000 $207,500
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2620 RHODE ISLAND AVE NE $482,500 4 3032 CLINTON ST NE $415,000 4 2206 RAND PL NE $370,000 4 CONGRESS HEIGHTS 1612 EVARTS ST NE $324,900 4 18 DANBURY ST SW #18 $73,500 3 1862 BRYANT ST NE $269,000 4 3865 HALLEY TER SE #104 $59,900 1 2966 CARLTON AVE NE $205,000 5 1876 BRYANT ST NE $195,500 4 DUPONT 1929 OTIS ST NE $161,000 3 1841 16TH ST NW #1 $974,000 3 1753 SWANN ST NW #1 $640,000 2 2 CONDO 1330 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW #315 $447,500 1230 23RD ST NW #620 $425,000 1 2114 N ST NW #21 $380,000 1 16TH STREET HEIGHTS 1916 17TH ST NW #310 $375,000 1 1301 LONGFELLOW ST NW #210 $180,000 2 1515 16TH ST NW #2A $364,000 1 1301 LONGFELLOW ST NW #203 $125,000 1 1621 T ST NW #607 $335,000 1 1260 21ST ST NW #504 $319,500 1 ADAMS MORGAN 1330 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW #323 $310,500 1 1654 EUCLID ST NW #PH-4 $887,500 2 1748 CORCORAN ST NW #1B $299,999 1 2714 ONTARIO RD NW #6 $755,000 2 1747 CHURCH ST NW #B1 $299,000 1 2456 ONTARIO RD NW #4 $679,000 2 1 SCOTT CIR NW #211 $239,900 1 1785 LANIER PL NW #2 $650,000 2 1632 S ST NW #11 $725,000 2 2428 17TH ST NW #2NE $529,403 1 1325 18TH ST NW #707 $399,900 1 1809 19TH ST NW #4 $330,000 1 AMERICAN UNIVERSITY PARK 1416 21ST ST NW #L2 $365,000 1 4101 ALBEMARLE ST NW #637 $711,000 2 1508 R ST NW #2 $575,000 2
ANACOSTIA 1920 NAYLOR RD SE #106
$32,500
BROOKLAND 329 RHODE ISLAND AVE NE #304 329 RHODE ISLAND AVE NE #204
88 H HillRag | July 2012
$329,900 $327,900
1 2 2
ECKINGTON 9 QUINCY PL NE #2
$505,000
FOGGY BOTTOM 2600 PENNSYLVANIA AVE NW #7A 2555 PENNSYLVANIA AVE NW #310
$835,000 $639,000
3 2 2
3 WASHINGTON CIR NW #704 2515 K ST NW #709
$373,000 $314,900
FOREST HILLS 2716 ORDWAY ST NW #1 4701 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #301 3883 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #902 4007 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #407
$560,000 $550,000 $350,000 $325,000
1 1 3 2 1 1
OWN a PIECE of HISTORY.
GARFIELD 2829 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #111
$210,000
GEORGETOWN 1517 30TH ST NW #C11 3299 K ST NW #703 3240 GRACE ST NW #3240 1080 WISCONSIN AVE NW #1006 3225 GRACE ST NW #103
$675,000 $670,000 $570,000 $485,000 $482,000
GLOVER PARK 2320 WISCONSIN AVE NW #509 4100 W ST NW #513 2320 WISCONSIN AVE NW #305 4000 TUNLAW RD NW #218 4000 TUNLAW RD NW #429
$350,000 $347,000 $336,501 $232,000 $160,000
H STREET CORRIDOR 1205 MORSE ST NE #4 1205 MORSE ST NE #1 1629 L ST NE #104 1629 L ST NE #006
$520,000 $417,000 $252,990 $124,900
KALORAMA 2230 CALIFORNIA ST NW #2B-E 2022 COLUMBIA RD NW #301 2230 CALIFORNIA ST NW #6B-W 1882 COLUMBIA RD NW #201 1882 COLUMBIA RD NW #204 2032 BELMONT RD NW #319 2022 COLUMBIA RD NW #404 1844 COLUMBIA RD NW #305 2129 FLORIDA AVE NW #205
$1,495,000 $1,250,000 $1,143,000 $957,500 $755,000 $315,000 $290,000 $237,000 $420,000
LEDROIT PARK 438 OAKDALE PL NW #2 438 OAKDALE PL NW #1 2022 FLAGLER PL NW #F104
$535,000 $505,000 $310,500
0
1 2 1 1 0
$745,000 $709,000 $540,000 $406,493 $685,000 $685,000 $656,000 $571,250 $554,200 $312,000 $430,000 $535,000
MARSHALL HEIGHTS 5208 F ST SE #2
$155,000
MOUNT PLEASANT 1618 BELMONT ST NW #UNIT C 1750 HARVARD ST NW #6B 3314 MOUNT PLEASANT ST NW #4 1661 PARK RD NW #101 1724 PARK RD NW #GARAGE SPACE
$640,000 $430,000 $390,000 $218,000 $75,000
MT VERNON SQ 437 NEW YORK AVE NW #407 1224 4TH ST NW #1
$386,000 $612,000
All that would be enough, but there is more. Think of the history that has been made in this house. The plans conceived, the projects completed, the legislation enacted. This is a thrilling opportunity to OWN a PIECE of HISTORY. – $9,995,000
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Licensed in DC, MD & VA
3 3 1
LOGAN 1213 N ST NW #A 1830 11TH ST NW #2 1616 11TH ST NW #304 1314 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #401 2125 14TH ST NW #411 1325 13TH ST NW #30 1529 14TH ST NW #608 1229 12TH ST NW #101 1300 N ST NW #306 1239 VERMONT AVE NW #503 1423 R ST NW #301 1718 4TH ST NW #2
This dramatic contemporary 10,000+ SF home overlooking the Potomac River was formerly owned by Senator Ted Kennedy. Nestled on 6.5 treed acres just minutes from Washington, DC, this 10,000+ SF residence has enormous entertaining spaces, walls of glass with stunning river views, multiple decks, plenty of room for fun & family, lots of privacy, two lots (634 and 636), a swimming pool, tennis court, hot tub, amazing library & fabulous teak floors.
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Specializing in all aspects of Real Estate Settlements
We Guarnatee Attention to Detail & Personalized Service 650 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE Suite 170 Washington, DC 20003-4318 202-544-0800
“We are part of Capitol Hill, We don’t just work here... We live here, too. Let our neighborhood experience work for you...”
$625,000 $536,500
OBSERVATORY CIRCLE 2501 WISCONSIN AVE NW #207 2141 WISCONSIN AVE NW #204
$899,900 $359,000
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Changing the face of east of the Anacostia River living. We’re showcasing the best the area has to offer in real estate and development.
2412 Minnesota Ave. SE, Suite 101 Washington, DC 20020
NW / U ST. / SHAW / LOGAN 1916 9TH ST NW #2 1916 9TH ST NW #1
ANACOSTIA RIVER REALTY
202-678-REAL(7325)
www.AnacostiaRiverRealty.com 202.546.3100 210 7th Street, SE. #100. WDC 20003 www.monarchtitle.net
Call John Corrigan today 202-306-1822 for instant Pre-Approval! WCS Lending proud to be ranked on Inc. 5000 for 2 Consecutive years!
capitalcommunitynews.com H 89
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Marlow Heights Shopping Center 4123 Branch Ave Marlow Heights, MD
301-702 1401
Free Gift With Ad
3901 TUNLAW RD NW #706
$281,000
OLD CITY #1 & #2 420 16TH ST SE #210 1624 18TH ST NW #C 910 M ST NW #301 1835 16TH ST NW #3 2124 11TH ST NW #1 1401 17TH ST NW #206 945 T ST NW #1 910 M ST NW #310 1320 13TH ST NW #2 1823 RIGGS PL NW #9 1735 P ST NW #4 910 M ST NW #409 475 K ST NW #304 1718 P ST NW #207 1300 N ST NW #416 1111 11TH ST NW #904 1816 T ST NW #E 1300 N ST NW #211 2004 11TH ST NW #122 437 NEW YORK AVE NW #911 1711 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #323
$331,400 $925,000 $650,000 $645,000 $598,000 $570,000 $542,800 $535,000 $479,555 $476,750 $460,000 $455,000 $429,600 $385,000 $379,000 $379,000 $375,000 $349,900 $335,000 $285,000 $228,000
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3900 WATSON PL NW #B-G4A 3900 CATHEDRAL AVE NW #513 A
2 2 2 2 3 2 3 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0
CLEVELAND PARK
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A diverse product line of quality beverages from all over the world One of the largest and most unique wine selections on Capitol Hill A friendly and knowledgeable staff Located just minutes form Downtown, DC and Alexandria, VA 1 block south of Eastern Market Metro on the vibrant Barracks Row Owned by the Williams Family since 1978; established before 1919
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ARTS & Dining Platter of Escape
Jose Andres Culinary Homage to Miro at the NGA
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by Emily Clark
s Capitol Hill residents, we sometimes take for granted the wealth of treasure that sits practically in the backyard, on the National Mall. But there’s currently an exhibit at the National Gallery that’s not to be missed—especially since it comes with food at the end. A retrospective of Joan Miro called Ladder of Escape focuses on the legendary Catalonian painter’s work before and during the Franco dictatorship in Spain. The ladder of escape depicted in many of the paintings on display is a figurative escape from oppression through art, as well as an escape into the imagination. Using simple figures and bright colors, Miro captures life in rural Spain in the early to mid-20th century. The exhibit hangs in the National’s light-filled East Building and is a powerful reminder of the way Spain has always played into the creative imagination. For every dark aspect—the Inquisition, the Franco dictatorship, the current debt crisis—Spain offers a counterpart of bright colors and beautiful, sometimes harsh, landscape that appeals to the artistic soul. Think Hemingway, Picasso, Miro. Now think Jose Andres, the award-winning chef, cookbook writer, TV personality and lecturer who has designed a menu for the museum’s Garden Café to complement the Miro exhibit. Andres is the driving force behind the ThinkFood Group, which operates the popular Jaleo and Oyamel, among other DC restaurants, and is known for flair and artistry. The Spanish-
Pollastre a la catalana (traditional Catalan chicken stew with dried fruit and nuts). Photo by Rob Shelley © National Gallery of Art, Washington.
Sopa freda de cireres de Santa Coloma de Cervelló (cold cherry and tomato soup), one of the dishes featured on the buffet created by Chef José Andrés for Garden Café Catalonia at the National Gallery of Art. Photo: Rob Shelley © National Gallery of Art, Washington.
Xatonada (salad of frisée, preserved tuna, and romesco sauce). Photo by Rob Shelley © National Gallery of Art, Washington. capitalcommunitynews.com H 93
a taste of
Old Havana!
Banana Cafe & Piano Bar @ The Upstairs Piano Bar
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Where Every Customer is Family! Serving the Finest Cuban, Puerto Rican and Latin Cuisine.
202-543-5906 500 8th Street, SE www.bananacafedc.com
In Memoriam Robert L. Tolar April 29, 1941 – June 18, 2012 Bob will be dearly missed by his sister Sara C. Tolar of Winter Springs, FL, cousins and many friends from Capitol Hill and Northern Virginia. His friendship, companionship, as well as his beautiful artwork will be remembered and treasured for the rest of our lives. Donations may be made to the National Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Capitol Caring of Washington DC, or the charity of your choice.
The best way to enjoy Café Catalonia is to have the buffet, which offers a taste of nearly the entire menu and is moderately priced at just $20.25 per person. If you speak or read Spanish, you may be confused, as the food names are written in Catalan—it looks like Spanish but definitely is not. The food is as different as the language. Start with the cold cherry and tomato soup, slightly sweet, slightly tart, a sort of fruity gazpacho. Other cold dishes include white bean salad with vegetables, olives and tomatoes (empedrat de Chef José Andrés, who created Garden Café Catalonia at the mongetes) and a salad National Gallery of Art in honor of Joan Miró: The Ladder of of roasted red pepper, Escape (May 6–August 12, 2012). Photo by Pablo de Loy eggplant and onion (escalivada catalane), both born Andres has worked all over fresh and flavorful. These two salads the world, including the Catalonian can also be ordered a la carte if you’re foodie paradise Barcelona. At the eating light. pop-up Café Catalonia, the menu A third salad at the buffet (xatodoes not disappoint. nada) combines frisee with preserved After viewing the exhibit, walk tuna and romesco sauce, a garlicky downstairs, through the cascade pasfusion of nuts, peppers and tomatoes. sageway and gift shop to the GarDelicious, but don’t load up on salden Café Catalonia. Situated in an ads, as there’s much more to come. atrium, the café is a perfect place to The hot dishes are as different have lunch before, after or between as they sound. My favorite was polexhibits. It’s also a good way to move lastre a la catalane, a chicken stew out of Spain’s dark side and into Catwith dried fruit and nuts. There’s alonia’s unique cuisine and language.
Joan Miró, The Farm, 1921-1922. oil on canvas. National Gallery of Art, Washington, Gift of Mary Hemingway 94 H HillRag | July 2012
Chef José Andrés’ menu of Catalan fare is available at Garden Café Catalonia, located in the West Building next to the Ground Floor galleries. A diverse product line of quality beverages from all over the world One of the largest and most unique wine selections on Capitol Hill A friendly and knowledgeable staff Located just minutes form Downtown, DC and Alexandria, VA 1 block south of Eastern Market Metro on the vibrant Barracks Row Owned by the Williams Family since 1978; established before 1919
The best weekly wine tastings on “The Hill”- Sat (3-6pm)
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also a traditional Catalan beef stew with mushrooms, as well as a perfectly cooked vegetable stew called samfaina. Quince marmalade accompanies a selection of cheeses, and if you have room for more, don’t miss the crema catalana, the Catalan version of flan. It is sweet and creamy, literally melts in the mouth and is best taken with a perfect espresso. In addition to the two salads on the a la carte menu (prices range from $12-14.50), there’s a heartier offering of pork and chicken canelons with béchamel, as well as a dessert of pears poached in red wine and served with vanilla ice cream. The café features a selection of Spanish wines and sangria to accompany your meal. You will definitely not leave hungry. While waiting for our check (presented with two of the day’s recipes), we asked our server if the café would really close when the Miro exhibit ends August 12. We were already feeling bereft and deprived. She hinted that the run might be extended with just a slight tweaking of the menu. Here’s hoping! Garden Café Catalonia, through August 12 at the National Gallery of Art, West Building, 6th Street and Constitution Avenue. Monday-Saturday, 11:30-3; Sunday, noon-4. Reservations are recommended: 202-712-7454. H
Fine German Cuisine New Summer Menu Visit www.cafeberlindc.com for details
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202-543-7656 322-B Massachusetts Ave., NE • Washington, DC 20002
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ARTS& Dining
D
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ast month, Capitol Hill got a sneak preview of Nooshi and Tash. Nooooo, we didn’t invade the Barracks Row restaurant itself, which won’t arrive until later this summer. Instead, we tasted their delicious food at Barracks Row Main Street’s annual Garden Party June 7. On that gorgeous spring evening, we were greeted by Tash owner/chef Nariman Mondaniou’s succulent grilled chicken and steak kebabs. We also sampled Nooshi chef Bill Tu’s sushi. The party setting was the “Deer House,” the graceful East Capitol home of hosts Barracks Row Main Street president Tip Tipton and Connie Tipton. Among the 150-plus guests was HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, a Hill resident who dines on Barracks Row “as frequently as possible.” The Secretary first moved to the Hill after graduating from Trinity College, and her family members have lived here as well. We also talked with uber-restaurateur Xavier Cervera, whose Pacifico Cantina opened a few days later at 514 Eighth St. SE. Chef Ben Berryhill (a Charleston, South Carolina transplant), is showcasing the cuisine of the Baja/Mexican/California coast. There’s sidewalk seating, and the impressive rooftop is reportedly the city’s largest open air dining space. Also dishing out victuals were Senart’s Oyster and Chop House (chef Brian Klein’s refreshing watermelon soup, raw oysters and jumbo shrimp); Spring Mill Bread (sandwiches, pastries); Sweet Lobby (macaroons and cupcakes); Schneider’s (beer and wine); Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America (liquor). Providing music: Georgetown Chimes, a barbershop quartet sponsored by BRMS treasurer Susan Perry; Marine pianist Anna Maria Matola (sponsored by Barracks Row Main Street) and sax jazz musician Marshall Keyes, sponsored by Donna Breslin and Tom Chapman. 96 H HillRag | July 2012
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article by Celeste McCall | photos by Andrew Lightman also comes in a sandwich), crafted from chocolate and hazelnuts from Italy. Besides Capitol Hill and Logan Circle. Pitango has locations in Penn Quarter, Baltimore’s Fells Point and Reston Town Center. For more information, visit www.PitangoGelato.com.
Mussel Power
Nooshi chef prepares sushi at the Barracks Row Main Street’s annual Garden Party while owner Bill Tu looks on.
We noticed a cache of umbrellas in the crowded kitchen; the Tiptons and the party planning committee were taking no chances with Washington’s quirky weather.
Coming soon
On the way to a Nationals game recently, we checked on Xavier Cervera’s Park Tavern, sprawled in Canal Park at Second and E streets SE. Expect an October opening. Chris Vanarsdale of the Canal Park Development Association is “still working out menu details,” but rumors indicate a raw bar and Neopolitan-style pizzas. Cervera is designing the 3,500-square-foot LEED gold or platinum space, which includes outdoor seating. Besides his other enterprises, Cervera has yet another restaurant in the works, Willie’s Brew and Que in the Boilermaker Shops at the Yards.
New Chef
Station 4 owner Med Lahlou has tapped a new chef de cuisine, Eddie Moran. If that name sounds familiar, Moran most recently wielded his whisk nearby at Sou’wester in the
Mandarin Hotel. Moran, who has cooked at top restaurants around the country, is joining Station 4 executive chef Orlando Amaro. Located at 1104 Fourth St. SW, across from the Waterfront Metro stop (Green Line), Station 4 is open daily, including happy hours and weekend brunch. For more information call 202488-0987 or www.station4dc.com.
And...
On the “Avenue,” it appears that someone is finally moving into the spot vacated by Capitol Hill Art & Frame. Later this summer or fall, look for Beuchert’s Saloon at 623 Pennsylvania Ave. SE.
Keeping Cool
Across from Eastern Market, Pitango Gelato, 660 Pennsylvania Ave. SE (entrance on Seventh), has come up with sparkling new flavors, ideal for sultry summer days. For sorbets, owner Noah Dan taps fruits from local farms, plus raw organic cane sugar and mineral water, sans processed or artificial ingredients. A new flavor is Bacio (which
Belga Café, 514 Eighth St. SE, plans a busy summer. Coming up July 14-21 is Belgian Restaurant Week, which culminates with Belgium National Day July 21. The highlight is the annual Mussel Throw Down at Yards Park at the Capitol Riverfront. Presented by Stella Artois beer, Stella’s Brand Ambassador Bart Vandaele and other restaurants will vie for best mussel creation. There will also be boules (sort of like bocce), live music and a Belgian Marketplace. For more information call 202544-0100 or www.BelgianRestaurantWeekDC.com. http://belgacaf. cmail3.com/t/y-l-jrluddd-chlijwi-y/
Brunch Bunch
We’ve always been partial to Trattoria Alberto, the 30-year-old Barracks Row veteran which dished out good Italian vittles long before Eighth Street became trendy. We used to dine there with friends who are no longer with us. In honor of its third decade, Alberto has joined the weekend brunch brigade. Served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, the menu offers omelettes, steak-and-eggs, fresh fruit and smoked salmon platters. We love the crunchy, tender calamari (appetizer). The grilled steak salad is flavorful; the traditional cold cut sub is tasty, but does not give Littari’s (near the Florida Farmers Market) reason to fret. Alberto pours a generous slug of decent vino. Our recent brunch tab came to a reasonable $48.25, before tip. Our server, Juan Bruca, has been with
Trattoria Alberto almost from the beginning. If you are taking in a Nats game, call ahead and pick up lunch to go. Located at 506 Eighth St. SE, Trattoria Alberto is open daily; call 202-544-2007 or www.trattoriaalbertodc.com.
Lotsa Pasta
It’s no secret that Toscana Café, near Union Station, dispenses dynamite Tuscan victuals. Owner/chef Daniele Catalani also cranks out his own pasta with his fancy, Italianmade machine. Varieties include fettuccine, pappardelle, rigatoni, vealstuffed ravioli and tortelloni. Complementing these fatto a mano (handmade) pastas are homemade sauces, among them puttanesca, amatriciana, gorgonzola, lamb ragu, pesto, wild mushroom. I’ve sampled several, and they are delectable. Toscana also sells private label olive oil. Located at 601 Second St. NE, Toscana Café is open daily. Call 202-525-2693 or www.toscanacafedc.com.
Tune Inn Wins a RAMMY
Our beloved Tune Inn, which has rebounded after last year’s devastating fire, was duly recognized at the Restaurant Association Metro-
politan Washington’s 2012 RAMMY Awards Gala on June 24. For its 65 years in business, the familyowned Tune Inn received the Honorary Milestone Award, presented by RAMW president (and Hill resident) Lynne Breaux. Joined by Tune employees and clad in a glittery gold evening gown, proprietor Lisa Nardelli, granddaughter of founder Joe Nardelli, accepted the award. “We are so grateful,” she said. “When we received that phone call a year ago about the fire, our whole staff and neighbors responded.” Lisa also recounted the dark days following 9/11, “when neighbors gathered at the Tune to check on friends and support each other....hopefully, we will be around to celebrate 100 years. Thank you Capitol Hill.” Since the gala theme was “Hats off to Washington,” many wore festive (and sometimes outlandish) chapeaux.
New at NoMa
NoMa’s Farmers Market has moved: You’ll now find it Wednesdays from 3 to 7 p.m. at 1325 Second St. NE, at the intersection of Second and N, immediately adjacent to the Florida Avenue entrance of the NoMa Metro Station. The market runs through October 31. Vendors include all sorts of sustainable farms, dairies and bakeries, which dispense produce, cheeses, eggs, breads, pastries, herbs and much more. Here’s a fun idea: Pick up goodies from the market (or check out a food truck) and walk over to the NoMa Summer Screen. The movie schedule kicked off last month and continues every Wednesday until August 8. This year’s theme ‘‘Is 2012 the End of the World?” features films spoofing doomsday prophesies marking the end of the Mayan calendar. The evening starts at 7 p.m. with music, giveaways and other family fun. Flicks start at dark, around 8 p.m.http:// www.karmakitchen.org H
Bart Vandaele, owner and chef of Belga Café, plating a dish during last year’s Belgian Restaurant Week. capitalcommunitynews.com H 97
ARTS& Dining
Choosing Drinks for Independence Day by Felix Milner
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n June 2008, with no plan and no particular job prospects like a lot of recent graduates that year, I came to the United States planning to spend a long summer with my American girlfriend and then return to England. By September we had adopted a cat, found an apartment, were planning our wedding, and America was my new home. As an outsider, and particularly a Brit, I did not immediately take to the 4th of July. For the sake of irritating my soon-to-be wife, I spent that first Independence Day referring to it as “good riddance day.” In the ensuing four years, through road trips dictated by national parks, battle sites and roadfood guides, I have begun to appreciate the awe-inspiring geography, regional distinctions, and enthralling history of the United States. So this year, as I begin my own citizenship application process, I will be delighted to toast the ideals of the Revolution and my new home. I will even refer to it as Independence Day, as long as I can enjoy some great food and celebratory drinks with friends. For many people, the 4th of July is synonymous with barbeque. But that does not mean that meat over charcoal is the only aroma associated with the day. The sulfur of fireworks and the chlorine of late afternoon dips in the pool can overwhelm anyone’s olfactory capabilities. Choosing a wine or a drink that can stand up to such powerful scents, particularly on a hot DC summer afternoon, can pose a considerable challenge. It’s always tempting to pick an old stand-by, a favorite beer, wine or large batch of margaritas. However, it’s also a holiday, and an opportunity to try something different to really celebrate with friends and family. If you are looking for some new ideas for your picnic or backyard feast, there are plenty of patriotic, historically appropriate, and delicious options to choose from. If you’re choosing a beer, there is a bewildering selection of incredibly good quality micro brews out there. For barbeque fare I would go for something flavorful but not too high in alcohol. Michiganbased Founders Brewing Company (coincidentally a great name for a ‘founding fathers’ theme) makes a stunning dry hopped Pale Ale and Red Rye. If you’re interested in something local, why not pick up one of DC Brau’s incredibly popular offerings? For American wines that work well with barbeque, big California Zinfandels such as Dry Creek’s 2009 Heritage Clone or, for a bit more, C.G. di Arie’s 2006 Southern Exposure from Amador county in the Sierra Foothills would be my first two choices. However, lighter Syrahs or even Pinots can work well, too. Yamhill Valley Vineyards from Oregon is an old favorite. Their 2008 Estate offers tons of black cherry and raspberry fruit, showing good body and texture on the palate, and a long finish with depth and minerality. Sparkling wines can mix up extra festive cocktails or be enjoyed on their own. Gruet from New Mexico is leading the pack with their relatively inexpensive, ($15) but quality, Brut non-vintage. With 24 months on tirage (resting after its second fermentation), it spends 98 H HillRag | July 2012
longer than most non-vintage Champagnes (which are required a minimum of 18 months), developing plenty of body and toasty aromas to complement lots of white flowers, apple and grapefruit. Plus it’s not so expensive that you can’t make Mimosas with it. It seems slightly contradictory to consume French drinks on such an American day, but particularly in DC it seems worthwhile to raise a glass to the contributions of General Lafayette and Pierre L’Enfant to the young nation and capital city. And if that’s not reason enough, the founding fathers, particularly Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin, were considerable fans of French wine. My favorite part of a recent visit to Monticello was the single bottle dumbwaiter Jefferson had installed in his dining room, and the cellar full of longempty Bordeaux bottles. During their time in France both Franklin and Jefferson developed a particular attachment to what would later become first growth Bordeaux, including Lafite. For French wines that go with barbeque, I don’t think you can get better than Rhone Valley wines. Chateauneuf-du-Pape would be my first choice, expressing lots of spice, fruit, and gamey smokiness. However, if you are looking at spending a little less, now is a great time to stock up on some terrific bargains from the region. Pic & Chapoutier (a collaborative effort between one of the region’s top producers and Anne-Sophie Pic, the World’s first female chef to run a three Michelin star establishment) are doing a great line of wines. Their Crozes-Hermitage is a particularly terrific value at $20. On a hot summer day, a crisp and zesty Sauvignon Blanc can feel as refreshing as blasting your face with an air conditioning vent. From the Loire valley (home of Sauvignon Blanc), Caillottes’s Sancerre ‘Les Genets’ and Saumon’s Touraine are two we recently received from France and which perfectly accompany grilled chicken and fish. Again, for whiskey fans, the go to choice would be a good bourbon such as an Elmer T. Lee’s or Four Roses’s Single Barrel, but carrying on with the French theme why not celebrate the long weekend with Maison Rouge’s VSOP Cognac ($25) or Tariquet’s VSOP Armagnac ($40)? Felix is Schneider’s New Media Manager and wine student currently studying for the Wine & Spirits Education Trust Diploma, a prerequisite for the Institute of Master of Wine. H
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ARTS& Dining
ATTHE MOVIES
Two New Tough Documentaries:
One on a Scandal Repressed and One on Repression Itself by Mike Canning
The Invisible War
Kirby Dick is one of those documentary filmmakers who thrives on controversial subject matter and pointedly picks controversial or adversarial subjects (e.g. “Outrage,” “This Film Is Not Yet Rated”). His latest, “The Invisible War,” fits that category and treats a troubling subject with very serious national implications, revealing one of America’s most shameful and best kept secrets: the epidemic of rape within the U.S. military (the film, now at local theaters, is rated “R” for sexual content and runs 97 min.). “The Invisible War” doesn’t Airman 1st Class Jessica Hinves, US Air Force, kneels under an aircraft, from “The Invisible War,” a waste any time before it slams Cinedigm/Docurama Films release. you in the face with its opening statements: a female soldier in The film offers a measured, con- military officials, one of whom (a Rear combat zones is more likely to be vincing indictment of the systematic Admiral) struggles to defend the sysraped by a fellow soldier than killed cover-up of these military sex crimes tem in general terms or, another (the by enemy fire; the Department of (which occurred in all branches), civilian Director of the Sexual Assault Defense estimates that there was a chronicling the women’s struggles Prevention Office) who seems clueshocking 19,000 violent sex crimes (and the case of one man also) to re- less about the extent of the problem. committed in the military in 2010; build their lives and fight for justice. The movie also shows a contingent of twenty percent of all active-duty feParticularly unsettling for these brave women who both try to bring male soldiers are sexually assaulted, rape victims is that they cannot ap- suit against military authorities (they (mostly women younger than 21). peal to an impartial police force and fail) and who press their case to memFrom there Dick presents you with judicial system for help and justice. bers of Congress (several of whom are the human voices behind the statisThese uniformed victims have to shown as sympathetic listeners). tics as he interviews a range of womturn to their commanders—some of Sad to note, this film touches en who relate their stories. whom committed the offense. Even particularly close to home in one seParticularly touching are the tesappealing higher up the chain of quence. Two women in the film speak timony of women like Coast Guard command can be all too often met candidly about assaults suffered when Seaman Kori Cioca, who was raped with foot-dragging at best, and even they were assigned as Marine officers by her commanding officer and left reprisals for “informing.” The film at the Marine Barracks right in the with a broken jaw and nerve damindicates that only eight percent of heart of Capitol Hill. age; Airman First Class Jessica military sexual assault cases are ever One of them, an Annapolis honHinves, who, after her assault, sufprosecuted, with nothing like civil- ors graduate with service in Iraq, fered from post-traumatic stress disian punishments. movingly testifies about her rape at order; and Navy Seaman Trina McThe film also features a miscellany the hands of her civilian supervisor Donald, repeatedly raped at a base in of interviews with some high-ranking and a senior officer in her own home the Aleutian Islands. 100 H HillRag | July 2012
in our neighborhood. She was, like many other victims, placed in the excruciating circumstance of having to file a complaint with her own boss, the perpetrator. That ex-Marine is now a plaintiff in a civil suit against the DoD wherein she challenges the Marine Corps view that she must have welcomed the assaults because “she wore make-up and skirts” – which were part of her regulation uniform. The film hardly condemns the entire Marine Corps itself or the Barracks contingent, which have long been a significant part of life on the Hill, participating in community events and inviting neighbors into their precincts. Still, to illustrate its telling of this sometimes lurid story, the filmmakers display footage of some of the bar signs on Eigtht Street as well as some flashes of 8th Street SE streetscape (avoiding the Barracks themselves).
Ai Weiwei: Never Worry
Ai Weiwei is China’s most famous artist, a bearded, chubby, and sardonic presence known as much for thumbing his nose at his country’s domestic policies as for his strikingly varied artistic output. He also became China’s most famous dissident in 2011 when he was brusquely detained by Chinese authorities. “Ai Weiwei: Never Worry” tells of the man, his art, and his mischief, narrating his personal history and surveying his works, documenting his needling of the Chinese system, and demonstrating his valiant embrace of digital media. Ai, it turns
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Artist Ai Weiwei contemplating a new work in “Ai Weiwei: Never Sorry.” Photo by Ted Alcorn. A Sundance Selects release.
out, has a significant connection with the US, having come to New York City to study in 1983 as a young man then leaving after 10 years to return to his homeland (he mentions a stint he did at the 2nd Avenue Deli in the city). In subsequent years, he developed his style of eclectic conceptual art, including both elaborate and painstaking “constructions” and “environments” which he designs and then, with a group of loyal assistants, brings to fruition (one of his works is now on prominent display in Washington: “Fragments,” a massive structure of wood pieces from Qing dynasty temples graces the lobby of the Smithsonian’s Sackler Gallery on the Mall). The film traces his protean career, beginning with his attaining worldwide fame with his design for the Beijing Olympics “Bird’s Nest” stadium. He then began receiving major commissions around the world. Several of them are featured in this documentary, including his massive room of porcelain sunflower seeds in
London, his large remembrance piece for victims of the Sichuan earthquake, and his exhibition of gaudy over-painting of classic Neolithic vases. Through it all, the film captures the rambunctious and slyly enigmatic character of the artist, who likes to describe himself in cryptic phrases, like “I’m more of a chess player, waiting for the next move.” It also highlights his addiction— a bit like a kid—to digital media and his love affair with cameras and Twitter (on which he has reached an international audience). Yet the film hits hard when you see this congenial, whimsical man under pressure from the authorities who cannot stomach his mocking outspokenness, such as giving the middle finger to Tiananmen Square. The film wraps with the sequence on his mysterious detention in April 2011, during which the government beat him and, among other things, interrogated him about the financing of his major commissions. He was released on bail after 81 days, just as mysteriously,
but not before the regime bulldozed his newly built studio. His final words to the camera in the film are a “So Sorry,” delivered with a mix of regret and irony. Ai Weiwei himself could hardly have found a better American collaborator to tell his story. Firsttime director Alison Klayman gained unprecedented access to Ai while working in China, where she lived from 2006 to 2010 as a freelance journalist. This film is her baby: she directed, produced, filmed, and co-edited it and obviously developed an easy and deep rapport with the artist. She leaves a memorable character study. “Ai Weiwei: Never Sorry” was showcased at the American Film Institute’s Silver Docs Festival last month and is to be released in Washington theaters in July. (it runs 91 min.). Long-time Capitol 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. H
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A Capitol Hill artist and writer, Jim can be reached at Artandthecity05@aol.com. Jim’s award-winning book, “A Haunting Beauty” can be acquired through www.ahauntingbeauty.com.
Artist Profile: Rindy O’Brien
Jim Magner’s Thoughts on Art
You know Rindy O’Brien for her Hill Joan Miro, (See: At the Museums), is Rag column, The Hill Gardener. It’s not just among those modernists in the first decades about planning and planting your yard; it’s of the 20th century that we invariably love. about beauty on the Hill—both the biologiIt was a time when color and form were recal and architectural type. It’s about photogleased from the limitations of “reality” by Ceraphy as well. Rindy takes the pictures. zanne, Gauguin, Van Gogh and a few others Her popular book, @Home on the Hill, of the preceding generation. is also, naturally, about both kinds of beauty… Looking back at those movements— and photography. It captures those details Fauves, Futurists, Expressionists, Surrealists, that make a neighborhood a kaleidoscope of Rindy O’Brien. Photo: Linda Wright Cubists, and others—it would seem that they human touches. had all the fun. For me, no one person epitoRindy’s love affair with the camera began mized those movements more than Joan with a degree in communications from Lindenwood University in Miro. To me, his paintings were playful, fun, even mocking—comMissouri, and a summer job producing live shows for NBC in St. pleted with a wink. And with that wink came an incredible personal Louis. Combine that with a life-long affiliation with environmental performance of visual art—a total mastery of the space. He and his issues and the result is an ongoing passion for landscape photography. pals broke all the rules and created new symbolism, emotions and She shoots landscapes “at first blush.” It is that first impression— meanings. Pure art was the only thing that mattered. that initial connection with a place at a certain time. She doesn’t set up a shot; she captures all of the biological players in the outdoor Could I have been more wrong? The current exhibit at the National Gallery is a celebration of not just the man who made art from every possible material and form, but the artist who was screaming his artistic lungs out in revulsion of the horror-filled decades of the world-wars and the Spanish Civil War. People of his time, of his country, were ripping tearing civilization apart. Miro was a visual warrior, fighting to restore reason. These are powerful works of art—works of anger—and yet at the same time, works of love. He said that a true artist, amidst the silence of others, has something to say. Art should be a “negation of the negations,” a negative answer to the negative forces of Fascism, or any attempts to deny freedom. Do we feel that obligation now? As the civilized world rushes headlong into a negation of personal freedom, who among us is trying to negate the negations? Are we so timidly trying to please, and be safe, that we are becoming insignificant doodlers? Yeah, with only Bike Shop Repair guy, 22 years old, film student, Santa Fe. All portraits are a few exceptions. part of a series 60x60. theater at certain moment. A portrait of nature. She uses this same approach in her latest project, “A Person of Interest.” It will consist of 60 portraits, faces, each taken with the same Leica digital camera. These are people she is meeting for the first time, to be captured in that unguarded opening, before the person has a chance to establish a more self-conscious identity. There will be one portrait for each year of her life: 60, a celebration year. Each person will be of a particular age, riding the timeline from one to sixty. It will be completed and displayed during her summer residency, July and August, at the Torpedo Factory in Old Town, Alexandria. (See, At the Galleries.) Some of the portraits will be of people who happen to enter her space, room 224. This gives you a chance to be a person of interest. www.at1stblush.com. Luca, 16 year old, model and student of Columbia University, New York. 102 H HillRag | July 2012
artandthecity
Artist Portrait: Rindy O’Brien
by Jim Magner
NEW EXPANDED MENU
Las PLacitas RestauRant
by nationally known artist and teacher, Jane Ann Wynn. She works in a wide range of media, including assemblage, jewelry, sculpture, printmaking, drawing, painting, and photography. The exhibit is curated by Bruce McKaig. The opening is Sat., June 30, 5-7. http://www.janeannwynn.com
Scott, 52 years old, farmer and model.
At the Museums
“Joan Miro: Ladder of Escape” National Gallery of Art East Building 3rd and 7th Sts at Constitution Ave. NW -- Aug. 12
Joan Miro, 1893 –1983, remains one of the 20th century’s most celebrated artists— from the early modernist movements, and continuing through the late 60s and early 70s, a turbulent period under the dictatorship of Francisco Franco in Spain. He may also be one of the least understood from an American point of view. We tend to see his incredible art without truly grasping the terrible forces that forged his visual statements. His intellectual outlook as well as his art was shaped by the horror and impact of two world wars on Europe, and the Spanish Civil War on his native Catalonia. This retrospective explores his responses to the politics and wars of his time. His “Ladder of Escape” is described as “rising beyond the limitations that bind us to earth.” It includes 120 paintings and works on paper. It ‘s a powerful and intelligent show. www.nga.gov.
At the Galleries
Rindy O’Brien – “A Person of Interest” Torpedo Factory; Studio 224 105 No. Union St. Alexandria, VA
Rindy O’Brien, (See Artist Profile) is capturing the faces of “interesting” people, ages one to sixty (one for each year of her life). These are 16x24 close-ups, printed on canvas, which allows more texture and a more expressive image. This is her interactive “60x60” project conducted during her juried residency at the Torpedo Factory. www.at1stblush.com.
Jane Wynn The Capitol Hill Arts Workshop 545 7th St., SE June 30 – July 31
CHAW presents an exhibition of works
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“Abstract Collective” Foundry Gallery 1314 18th Street, NW; July 4-29
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Twelve abstract painters, working in widely different traditions, interact visually to elicit emotional reactions from the viewer. The emphasis is on the intense colors and contrasts of expressionism. The opening, with the artists present, is Fri., July 6, 6-8. www.foundrygallery.org.
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The Sixth Annual East of the River Exhibition Honfleur Gallery 1241 Good Hope Road SE July 13 – Sept. 8
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Sixteen artists with connections to communities in Wards 7 and 8, east of the Anacostia River, come together to demonstrate the range of styles and media thriving “East of the River.” This is a great mix of people and personal approaches, and a dynamic fusion of themes and subjects. The opening is Fri., July 13, 7-9. arts@archdc.org
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“Inside Outside” Gabriela Bulisova The Gallery at Vivid Solutions 2208 Martin Luther King Jr Ave. SE July 13 – Sept. 28
Gabriela Bulisova photographs men and women returning from prison. A documentary photographer and multimedia artist, her projects present the hard-hitting personal stories of those coming back to families and neighborhoods. Opening: July 13, 6‐8. www.vividsolutionsdc.com
“Kohiki & Canvas” Gallery 555 555 12th St. NW July 3 – 27
You have to make the final champagne reception, Sat., July 7, 1 – 5. It is not only to experience the art of Jodi and Ron Loyd, but to mingle with friends, and pick-up other works by local artists and craftsmen. It’s at 12th St. between E & F (in the lobby). www.Gallery555dc.com. H
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LITERARY HILL
A Compendium of Readers, Writers, Books, & Events
by Karen Lyon
Mad As Hell
“Most Americans, if asked, would probably say that the U.S. system of government is one of the most democratic in the world. And yet,” writes Linda Killian, “it’s not.” In her new book, “The Swing Vote: The Untapped Power of Independents,” the Capitol Hill author documents
the stranglehold that the two major parties exert on the political process and the extremism that has increasingly alienated moderate voters and politicians alike. “It’s like the parties have gone crazy,” bemoans one voter. And a former legislator tells her, “They govern from the extreme, and if you’re not on the bandwagon, they drive you out.” The only ray of hope that Killian sees – barring the far-fetched notion that politicians will come to their senses – are the independent voters, who currently make up a larger portion of the electorate than either Democrats or Republicans. Based on nearly a hundred interviews with voters and politicians at both the state and federal level, Killian paints a pic104 H HillRag | July 2012
ture of independents as an “ideological ‘middle of the road’ or centrist” group that is often fiscally conservative but socially moderate. “These voters swing back and forth between parties” and can be a crucial factor in deciding election outcomes. More than just a rant on partisanship, “The Swing Vote” offers some concrete solutions to the problem, such as reforming voting rules, campaign finances and redistricting practices. Finally, in a chapter aptly titled “Battle Cry,” Killian rallies independents to get involved in civic life and take action to break the gridlock. She pictures “a collective moment like that in the 1976 movie ‘Network,’” in which people across the country stand up and shout, “I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore!” Only then, she writes, might those whose interests are served by the current system be moved to change it. Linda Killian is a journalist and senior scholar at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars and has been a columnist and national political writer for “The Atlantic,” “Newsweek/The Daily Beast,” and a variety of other publications. Her previous book was “The Freshmen: What Happened to the Republican Revolution?”
A Poetic Rupture
Patricia Gray is one of Capitol Hill’s poetic treasures. Born in DC, she grew up in the Shenandoah Valley and, in 1994, originated the Poetry at Noon reading series at the Library of Congress. A wellrespected poet herself, her work has appeared in “Poetry International,” “Shenandoah,” and other print and online publications, and her 2005 book, “Rupture,” was chosen by the “Montserrat Review” as one of the
best poetry books of the year. The more than three dozen poems in “Rupture” speak to -- and sometimes through – Gray’s flinty ancestors, explore the thread of maternal ties and the inspirations of an uncle’s natural wisdom, and go “trespassing through time” to revisit girlhood memories. They deal with sex, birth, divorce, and the way the city sometimes opens like an advent calendar, revealing what we remember behind what we now see. Like timeless miniatures, Gray’s poems capture those small moments – escaping from D.C. party talk or carving a Halloween pumpkin – and imbue them with the patina of universal human experience.
Sparked the AIDS Epidemic and How the World Can Finally Overcome It,” Timberg uses the analogy to describe the spread of AIDS in Africa. “Tinderbox” describes how the West helped to create the conditions for the spread of HIV through the colonization of Africa in the 19th century, which increased both the mobility of the population and its concentration in urban centers. Yet few at the time stopped “to consider that such intrusions might have anything but benevolent consequences.” Later, when the virus began to move through Africa, the West fell back on the old colonial model, failing to recognize either the social factors contributing to the spread of disease or the local expertise that might have helped them to a deeper
Snuffing Out the Flames of AIDS
A tinderbox requires steel, flint, and cloth to create a spark -- which then requires the right combination of elements to sustain the flame. “Take away any element,” writes Hill author Craig Timberg, and the fire burns out. In his new book, cowritten with epidemiologist Daniel Halperin, “Tinderbox: How the West
understanding. According to a nursing professor in Botswana, the influx of outsiders revived the dynamic in which the more revered knowledge and power came from outside and Africans themselves took a passive
mite: A-Z of Tar-in-a-Jar’ has gone digital. Hall notes that the new edition has “a lot of new entries -- which is quite amazing, considering we’re talking about a humble tasty/ disgusting spread.” Read a sample and share your thoughts on tar-in-a-jar at http://bewritebooks.blogspot.com.
Summer Reading for Kids
role. “Some white person comes with utter garbage, something that will not work in our culture, and it’s hallelujah!” she told Timberg. “If we had tried to build on our culture, it might have made a difference.” Timberg and Halperin would like to see the focus of Western AIDS relief shift from costly treatments to prevention. In “Tinderbox,” they make an urgent plea for health officials to refocus their attention on the ‘“lethal cocktail’ of extensive heterosexual networks and low circumcision rates” that they believe to be the primary culprits in the galloping rate of HIV infections. “The epidemic has depended on human action for its birth and spread,” they write, “and so too could human action finally overcome it.” Craig Timberg is former Johannesburg bureau chief and now deputy national security editor for “The Washington Post.”
Want to keep your kid’s brain engaged this summer? ‘Science, Naturally!’ has the antidote to summer learning loss. Platypus Media, a Capitol Hill publisher, offers math and science books, including a One Minute Mysteries series, that entertain and educate. And if your little Einstein is loath to put down her electronic device, never fear. The books are also available in digital formats. Go to www.platypusmedia.com and click on ‘Science, Naturally!’ Naturally. The DC Public Library celebrates summer reading with programs and prizes for kids of all ages. Youngsters from birth to age 12 are encouraged to ‘Dream Big -- Read’ both for the fun of it and for the opportunity to win an eReader. Teens from 12 to 19 can ‘Own the Night’ and get a chance to win an iPad or, by entering the Book Review Contest, a laptop computer. To sign up, visit your local branch or go to www.dclibrary.org/ summerreading. H
Digital Tar-in-a-Jar
Local author Maggie Hall reports that her iconic “Mish-Mash Marcapitalcommunitynews.com H 105
Health & Fitness How to Have Fun Exercising with Your Dog
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by Pattie Cinelli
even years ago when I acquired Marcello, a medium-sized goldendoodle, I took part in the first Doodle Romp held in Dewey Beach. That year about 40 doodles and their owners gathered to raise money for Food and Friends, have fun, and socialize with our dogs. This spring more than 100 doodles and their people, including my breeder, Amy Lane, owner of Fox Creek Farms, participated in the Doodle Romp. When Amy saw Marcello digging a huge hole on the beach, she said, “Marcello’s in such good shape for his age.” Then she looked at me and said, “Oh, right. Of course. He has a personal trainer!” Most days, at least once and often
twice a day, I play ball with my dog. We go on a 45-minute to an hourlong morning walk in Congressional Cemetery and visit Lincoln Park most evenings. Marcello loves to swim so I take him to the Canine Fitness Center in Crownsville, MD. I also spent two years doing agility with him at the Canine Training Association. My dog is fit and healthy. But that’s not the case for almost 40 percent of dogs in the United States who are overweight. Dogs that are too fat and out of shape fall victim to many of the illnesses that plague obese and unfit humans. Recent studies suggest that people who exercise with their dogs are more likely to stick to a fitness program. What can you do to have fun and get fit this sum-
mer with your canine? I asked veterinarian Dr. Candace Ashley, owner of Animal Clinic of Anacostia how to safely exercise your dog. Not surprisingly, many of the same general principles that apply to humans apply to dogs as well. Before starting any fitness program, make sure your pooch is healthy. Your dog needs to be more than a year old for any vigorous activity. Ease into exercise. Don’t exercise your dog right after a meal. “You don’t want to create potential bloat especially with larger breed and deep-chested dogs,” explained Dr. Ashley. Make sure you are looking for and recognize the signs that your dog is overdoing it – breathing fast, panting excessively, staggering and refusing
Marcello and Pattie working on agility skills. Photo: Andrew Lightman capitalcommunitynews.com H 107
to follow you. “Dogs are people pleasers so we have to look for cues and messages from them that they want to stop,” said Dr. Ashley. Walking is a great exercise for you and your dog. Dog owners walk an average of 300 minutes per week which is nearly double the 168 minutes of walking that people without dogs do. However, the cardio benefits for you or your dog are limited if you tend to stroll. Running, on the other hand, is a great cardio workout. “It can be fun for you to run with your dog, but dangerous for your dog,” said Dr. Ashley. “If it’s hot, it’s better to run early in the day or later at night. If you run with your dog at night it’s important to have a collar that lights up so your dog is visible.” She also stressed that if you run on asphalt or cement you might consider getting shoes for your dog. “Surfaces get hot and paws, depending on your dog, can get easily abraded.” It’s especially important when it’s hot and you are exercising with your dog to keep both of you hydrated. “Cooling vests for dogs are available. They are filled with beads. When you immerse the vest in water, the beads swell up. When the vest is placed on the dog the water transfers,” said Dr. Ashley. A form of exercise that can be fun, safe and beneficial to owner and pet is interval walking. Start your walk with a warm up – walking at a leisurely pace. Then time a brisk walk for three minutes. The next interval is one of recovery for about a minute. During that time when your dog
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Pattie and Marcello take long walks at Congressional Cemetery.
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Marcello at the Doodle Romp. Photo: Pattie Cinelli
is resting, you can be squatting, doing pushups, lunges, tricep dips or any other weight-bearing exercise you desire. Dancing with your dog is also known competitively in the canine world as musical free style. You can get your dog to run between your legs, stand on his hind legs, twirl around and perform other tricks while both of you get a work out. If sports are more your thing, then you can try playing soccer with your pooch. You kick a ball and your dog passes it with his nose or paws. You can find soccer style exercise balls for dogs in a pet store. Both biking and rollerblading are safe and possible to do with your dog with proper training – your goal is to have dog run next to you without pulling on the leash. Both take practice and mindfulness – being acutely in tune to your dog’s signals that he/she needs to stop and get into shade. Most dogs are not built to run long distances especially in the heat. Did you ever watch dogs play? They sprint, then rest. Hiking with your dog can be fun if you are prepared. Know the trail. Carry plenty of water. Have a first aid kit on hand and make sure to make plenty of rest stops. Frisbee and playing ball are classic canine workouts. Because the exercise is much less for humans than canines, when I play ball with Marcello I like to do
a squat, lunge or pushup in between throws. You imagination is your limit when exercising with your dog. You can invent games such as squat tease, dog tag, fetch race and climbing stairs to get you and your dog moving. The Squat tease game is squat, tap your dog with his favorite toy then make him jump for it. Dog tag is just like the game you played as a kid. Tag your dog then start running. Let him chase you. To play Fetch Race you throw a ball, both race for it, then, when your dog gets it, wrestle your pooch for the ball. Climbing stairs together (take two at a time) can strengthen your cardiovascular ability and muscle endurance. Whatever exercise options you choose for you and your dog, Dr. Ashley reminds us that no matter what exercises we do, “Please don’t leave your pet in a car during the summer, even with the windows down. If you need that latte in Starbucks, it’s better to tie your dog up in front of the store in shade than in an open-windowed car. Dogs don’t sweat through their skin – only through their feet and from panting. They can easily get overheated.” Pattie Cinelli has been working in the fitness field since 1984 and has been exercising with her dog Marcello since 2004. While she has taken Marcello swimming, she has been searching for years for a pool or a beach where she can swim with her dog. If you have any information or suggestions, please email her at: fitness@pattiecinelli.com. H
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beautyhealthfitness
Does It Work? Teeth Cleaning Products
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by Jen Zatkowski
n honor of our annual Pet Issue, I wanted to explore new products that help solve some everyday pet problems. And the peskiest, most difficult part of pet care for me has been to keep my dog’s teeth clean. So, while my kids have mastered brushing their own teeth, my dog, sadly, has not. Nor have I – so her teeth have built up quite a bit of plaque and tartar and recently, her breath wilted the new plants in front of my house. I have tried various products over the years that claimed to clean my dog’s teeth of plaque and keep her breath fresh. Most involved some sort of toothbrush and a paste, liquid or foam I had to Before diligently brush onto her exactly what it says – and more. teeth. Anyone who has Clean Teeth Gel comes in a even the most docile of dogs knows that usually this process ends up with clear plastic bottle with a tapered slobber all over the owner and may- tip to easily deposit the gel onto the be one tooth partially brushed be- pet’s teeth. It claims to work fast to fore the dog has managed to wriggle reduce plaque and tartar without away and hide under the bed – cov- needing a toothbrush. The package ered in chicken-flavored toothpaste states that a “proprietary blend of and growling at you. And don’t even natural, holistic ingredients prothink about brushing a cat’s teeth – it’s duce a healthy oral environment worse than the horror of trying to give and kills the germs that cause bad a cat a bath. So, I needed to find the breath, plaque and gingivitis.” No best teeth cleaning products available toothbrush? Man, I really, really – or risk spending $1000+ at the vet to hoped this worked. I didn’t have to pry my dog’s have her teeth professionally cleaned. mouth open with one hand while trying to brush her teeth with the other. CLEAN TEETH GEL I just lifted her jowls and squirted some gel onto her canine tooth first. ($15.49 at Metro Mutts) Although not very cleverly named, Then, she allowed me to lift her lips Clean Teeth Gel by Tropiclean does and squirt some gel onto her front 110 H HillRag | July 2012
After
teeth. She immediately started licking like crazy – which is exactly what the directions say you want the pet to do. This licking helps “the gel mix with the saliva and coat all surfaces of your pet’s teeth and gums.” For maximum effect, take away all food and water for 30 minutes after applying the gel in order to allow it to penetrate. For the first 30 days, they recommend using it once a day. After 30 days, just 2 times per week to maintain tooth health. The immediate effect was a dog with minty-fresh breath. Long term, her teeth have noticeably less plaque and tartar. My “before” picture shows an inflamed gum and darker brown plaque. The “after” picture is a healthy pink gum, with lighter brown plaque and larger white portions. It hasn’t
worked overnight, but I truly see a difference in her teeth. And getting the pictures was the toughest part – she willingly lets me apply the gel each evening.
KISSABLE DENTAL WIPES ($12.99 At Howl To The Chief)
Less impressive, but still better than a brush and toothpaste, is Kissable! Dental wipes. The textured wipes contain baking soda, which provides gentle abrasion to remove plaque and tartar from teeth. They also contain aloe and pomegranate, antioxidants to promote oral cleanliness and fresher breath. Definitely less mess than a brush and paste, but they still required wiping each tooth at a time for several seconds.
My dog was quickly aggravated with me, and kept getting up and walking away after just a minute or two. So I kept following her, plopping down beside her and trying for a different tooth each time. I, too, tired of this game quickly. But at least I wasn’t covered in saliva and perfumed with bacon-flavored paste.
PLAQUE OFF ($18 at Wagtime)
For maintenance, nothing beats Plaque Off. A powder made from a specific seaweed harvested from the seas of Norway and Iceland, it contains an active element you sprinkle of your pet’s food. The powder is absorbed into the blood through the digestive system, and enters the saliva. Your pet’s saliva now prevents the accumulation of plaque and existing plaque is washed away. Sounds a bit nuts – but I have witnessed its magical powers myself. Not for major plaque and tartar build up, but fantastic for mild build up and to maintain clean teeth after plaque removal. My dog hasn’t noticed my adding the powder to her food and I feel good about maintaining her shiny teeth.
Claire P. Cargill, DDS Capitol Hill family Dentist
We offer complete Dental Care for adults and children. Eastern Market Metro Stop 1009 E Street, SE • Washington, DC
202-547-2491
clairecargilldds@verizon.net Free parking • Handicapped Accessible • Major Insurance Plan Accepted
NANCY L. LITHGOW, RN, MSW
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker
Individuals, Couples & Families Mothers & Infants Counseling & Psychotherapy
Ronda Bresnick Hauss Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supporting you in having a healthy & productive life.
when talking to friends and family isn't enough
202-543-7700 101 6th St., NE and 1616 18th Street, NW
Psychotherapy for adults using an integrative & holistic approach: traditional talk therapy, meditation, & creative, non-verbal techniques.
1308 Constitution Ave., N.E. 202.544.5050 www.quietwaterscenter.com “The Capitol Hill Psychiatrist”
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202-543-5290 Get A Free Brow Wax with the purchase of a Bikini Wax
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TREATS (various prices, Green Pets)
Another option for maintaining those pearly whites is, of course, treats. Many pet owners still swear by Greenies, but the latest treat to grind down plaque and tartar are deer antlers. Very hard and tough to gnaw down, these treats are flavorful enough to keep your dog interested in chewing, yet hard enough to last without splintering. Make sure to look for antlers that have been naturally shed, as they won’t contain any chemicals, dyes or preservatives. If you have a product you want me to try, please email me at jenzatkowski@ gmail.com. H
202.546.4887
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Is that Normal?
Defining Emotional Maturity by David P. Fago, PhD and Ronda Bresnick Hauss, LCSW
What is Normal?
As therapists, we are frequently asked whether certain behaviors are considered “normal.” One way of answering this question is to say that normal is a statistical concept that indicates what most people do -- but this explanation probably isn’t very helpful. Perhaps a better answer might involve a discussion about whether a person’s behavior is healthy rather than whether it is normal. After all, what we define as normal behavior isn’t necessarily the same as healthy. An example of normal might include eating too many calories and getting too little exercise -- but this behavior has led us to the current obesity epidemic. Normal, but definitely not healthy.
What is Emotional Maturity?
So if normal and healthy are not necessarily the same thing, how might therapists define healthy emotional maturity as opposed to “normal” behavior? Surprisingly, psychology hasn’t said very much on the subject, so let’s start with Daniel Webster: Maturity: noun. 1. being fullgrown or ripe, 2. being fully developed, complete, or re ad y, 3. becoming due (Webster’s New World Dictionary). While Webster ‘s definition gets at the essential end-state of maturity, it doesn’t really tell us anything about how a person behaves when he or she achieves a state of emotional maturity. We offer here, the following list of behaviors that might constitute emotional matu112 H HillRag | July 2012
rity: The ability to experience and understand our own deepest feelings and needs, and to be able to act on and express these feelings and needs in appropriate and constructive ways. This is opposite from “acting-out” our needs in unconscious, destructive ways. This aspect of maturity includes the ability to experience and tolerate intense feelings--which invariably occur in life--and to be able to contain these feelings until an appropriate and responsible means for expressing them is available. The ability to act on and react to life circumstances with intelligence, sound judgment and wisdom. This aspect of maturity is opposite of the tendency to act impulsively, without thinking through actions or considering their consequences. The ability to recognize, empathize with, and respect the feelings and needs of others. This is opposite from a selfish and chronic preoccupation with our own needs, with no awareness of or sensitivity to the needs of others. The ability to delay the immediate satisfaction of our own needs, so that we may attend to other more pressing needs or actions. This is opposite from a condition in which our immediate needs always take precedence over others needs. The ability to love--to allow another’s needs, feelings, security, and survival be absolutely paramount-just as if these were our own. The ability to adapt flexibly and creatively to life’s changing cir-
cumstances and conditions. This is distinct from the tendency to respond to life’s challenges in rigid, outmoded ways that are no longer particularly effective or appropriate. The ability to channel our energy, both positive and negative, into constructive contributions to ourselves, to others, and to our communities. The willingness and ability to be responsible and accountable for our own circumstances and actions in life, and the ability to differentiate our responsibilities from those of others. This is distinct from blaming others and seeing ourselves primarily as the victim of other’s behavior, or from maintaining a sense that we are somehow responsible for the happiness and well-being of all those around us. Responsibility arises from a stance of strength and competence; it does not include pronouncements of blame, shame, guilt, or moral inferiority/superiority, as these are all judgments added to the basic condition of responsibility. The ability to relate comfortably and freely with others, to like and be liked by others, and to maintain healthy and mutually satisfying relationships. The ability to choose and develop relationships that are healthy and nurturing, and to end or limit relationships that are destructive or unhealthy. To have healthy levels of pride and humility--a “healthy ego.” This is distinct from narcissism and hubris. Healthy humility includes the ability to accept oneself as less than
perfect, and the ability to accept appropriate self-criticism--and to be able to differentiate this from inappropriate or unjustified criticism or attack. Developing emotional maturity requires practice and is a journey not a destination. When we cultivate emotional maturity we reap many benefits -- but perhaps one of the greatest is that our lives becomes more satisfying when we learn to take responsibility for our own actions and behaviors. In the words of one of the great, modern psychotherapists, Albert Ellis: “The best years of your life are the ones in which you decide your problems are your own. You do not blame them on your mother, the ecology, or the president. You realize that you control your own destiny.” David P. Fago is a licensed psychologist practicing on Capitol Hill. He works with children, adults, couples and families. He has been in practice for 30 years, approaching therapy holistically, giving equal attention to the psychological, biological, social and spiritual aspects of life. He can be reached at: 202-441-8823. 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: www.quietwaterscenter.com. H
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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.
100 41st Street, NE Washington, DC 20019
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
MOVING TO OUR NEW HOME!!! 770 M Street, SE 20003 Directly across from the Navy Yard!!! Accessible via Metro’s Green, Blue and Orange lines and many bus routes!
Located in Ward 7
· · · ·
“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
· · · · · ·
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
RWPCS Uniform Vouchers for Newly Enrolled Student *Must be accepted and successfully enrolled 114 H HillRag | July 2012
· · · · · ·
Located on both Blue and Orange Metro Lines Several Metro Bus Routes within one block of school Van Service Available for Students Residing in Upper NW. All students “COLLEGE READY” Uniquely professional uniforms Community Parent College
~ CONTINUING TO BUILD OUR ACADEMIC, JOURNALISM, MEDIA ARTS, FOOTBALL, BASKETBALL, AND TRACK/FIELD PROGRAMS ~
kids&family Notebook by Kathleen Donner
Watering the children’s garden at the US Botanic Garden. Photo: Courtesy of USBG
Children’s Garden at the US Botanic Garden
Explore the outdoor Children’s Garden in the US Botanic Garden Conservatory where kids can grow their imaginations while checking out a variety of colorful garden plants. The Children’s Garden gives kids a chance to get hands-on in a garden where they can explore and play with gardening tools and watering cans. When young children use their imaginations to relate to their surroundings, there is evidence that they are also developing a life-long affection for the natural world. Kids are invited to see what’s in bloom and to gently touch and smell the plants in the Children’s Garden. Watch your kids relax, discover and reawaken their sense of curiosity! This courtyard garden closes for the winter. 100 Maryland Avenue SW, 202-225-8333. usbg.gov capitalcommunitynews.com H 115
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for each child. Contact Leslie 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, please visit chaw.org or call 202-5476839. CHAW, 545 7th St. SE.
Free Kids T-Shirts at Nats Game
At Nats v. Atlanta Braves on July 22, 1:35 p.m., the first 10,000 fans 12 and under get a free Potomac Nationals tshirt. washington.nationals. mlb.com
Mars Day! at Air and Space
Mars Day! is an annual National Air and Space Museum event that celebrates the Red Planet with a variety of educational and fun family activities. Visitors can also talk to scientists active in The Cemetery Dog (Katherine Sundt), shown with Young K9 Corp member Nikolai Gauss and his dad Ben. Photo: Victor Romero Mars research and learn about current and future missions. Interact one-on-one with Museum scientists, as well as Cemetery Kids gathered at Historic Congressional Cemetery on May 19th for treats, balloons and a visit with the Cemetery Dog scientists from the National (played by Katherine Sundt, daughter of Nick and France Sundt). These youngest members of the Congressional Cemetery Museum of Natural History community and their parents belong to the K9 Corps, the group of over 500 Hill families who visit the Cemetery regularly to and NASA, who are active in Mars research and mission walk their dogs and stroll in the beautiful grounds. Members of the K9 Corps support Congressional Cemetery generously with planning. See a real meteorite their dues, donations and volunteer time. from Mars. Learn about the Curiosity rover that will soon land on the Red Planet. See garten to sixth grade with a high tal Music, Harry Potter Adventure CHAW Opens Registrations quality arts education in a unique, Theater/Writing, Toy Making, and amazingly detailed images from the for Fall After School Youth multidisciplinary environment. more. Van pick-up is available from Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter and Classes include Guitar, Instru- local schools to CHAW. Tuition as- view the surface of the planet in Arts Program The Capitol Hill Arts Work- ment Building, Drumming, Vocal sistance and payment plans are also 3-D. Learn about the geology of Mars. Enjoy hands-on educational shop (CHAW ) opens registration Technique, Photography, Jewelry available. CHAW also presents “Ask Les- activities. Friday, July 13, 10:00 for its popular after-school Youth Making, Sculpture, Drawing, MuArts Program on Monday, July 23. ral Painting, Clay, Tap, Ballet, Hip lie,” a free service featuring CHAW’s a.m.-3:00 p.m. National Air and This innovative arts program, which Hop, World Dance, the Capitol Youth Education Coordinator Les- Space Museum, Independence Ave. runs in the fall from Aug 27-Dec Hill Youth Choir, and more. New lie Andrus who provides guidance at 6th St. SW. 202-633-1000. ai21, provides students in kinder- classes include Cartooning, Digi- in determining appropriate classes randspace.si.edu
Cemetery Kids!
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1250 Taylor St. NW Washington, DC 20011 p. 202 545-0515 f. 202 545-0517 www.bridgespcs.org
Shake Up Your Saturdays! Open City: London, 1500–1700
Explore the Folger exhibition Open City: London, 15001700 through interactive theatre games, exhibit related activities, and a scavenger hunt that allows you to discover the treasures in the Folger Great Hall. Aug 4, 10:00 a.m. Registration Required. Email educate@folger.edu or call 202-675–0395. Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 E. Capitol St. SE. folger.edu
Chapter One: Writing for Teens and Tweens
You’ve got: an idea, a manuscript, or part of a manuscript. You’d like friendly but critical eyes to help you shape, polish, and submit your work. You’ll find a safe, encouraging space to ask questions and resources to help you see your project through to completion. Participants will be invited to submit 20 pages before the first meeting but if that sounds scary, please come anyway and bring whatever you’ve got. Your newest cheering section looks forward to having you join them! July 16 and 23, 2:00-4:00 p.m. $100. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org
CHAW at Mr. Henry’s Family Night
On July 10 from 6:00-8:00 p.m., CHAW will be at Mr. Henry’s Family Night, 6th St. and Pennsylvania Ave. SE, doing art projects with the kiddos. Stop by for some great food and fun! mrhenrysrestaurant.com
Bank on DC Financial Literacy Technology Platform for Teens
Bank on DC has announced a new partnership to bring financial
literacy education to high school students across DC by providing them with access to the DC Chamber Financial Scholars Program, powered by EverFi. This web-based platform uses the latest in new media technologies-video, animations, 3-D gaming, avatars, and social networking-to bring complex financial concepts to life for today’s digital generation. Through the platform, students will become certified in over 600 topics in financial education, allowing them to become more informed, responsible citizens. Bank on DC has partnered with the DC Chamber of Commerce Foundation and EverFi, Inc. to include the interactive financial management platform to their financial education seminars. The platform is available to DC students and residents at no cost thanks to the generous support of the DC Chamber of Commerce Foundation. The 10-unit course offers 6 hours of programming aimed at teaching, assessing and certifying students in a variety of financial topics including credit scores, insurance, credit cards, student loans, mortgages, taxes, stocks, savings, 401k’s and other critical concepts that map to national financial literacy standards. The platform uniquely tracks the progress and score of every student and provides students who successfully complete the course with Certification in Financial Literacy, a valuable mark of distinction on resumes, college applications, and job applications. bankondc.org/youthportal
EXPANDING INTO AN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PROGRAM
Come Grow with Us!
Serving Preschool - Kindergarten for the 2012-2013 school year. A new grade will be added each year through 5th grade.
SpaceS currently available in our Kindergarten claSSroomS. Apply for admissions at www.bridgespcs.org or by coming to the school. We are building on our strong foundation as an early childhood program. Come be a founding member of the elementary school!
Program Features: before care starting at 7:30 am and after care until 6:00 pm. Small classroom size and well trained staff. individual planning for each student. Hands-on and project-based curriculum. Bridges Public Charter School is free and open to all DC residents. Tuition paid by non-residents.
NBC News Interactive Newsroom at Newseum
Record your own newscast, complete with cameras and teleprompters, at the “Be a TV Reporter” station. Try your hand as a photojournalist or reporter, or test your knowledge of current events
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at dozens of touch-screen game stations. $12.95-$21.95. 10% discount with online purchase. Kids 6 and under, free. The Newseum is open 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. 555 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. 888-639-7386. newseum.org Newseum Family Four Packs (two adults and two youth visitors) are $49.95 plus tax. Family Four Pack tickets are available only at the admissions desk.
Troop 380 Eagle Scout Projects
On March 10, at Congressional Cemetery, Scout Richard Merkle led a group of volunteers using SmartPhones and specialized software to take GPS-encoded digital pictures of headstones in the cemetery in effort to make genealogy records available to the public. This event was the culmination of his Eagle Project. Richard is a Scout with Troop 380, which is chartered to St. Peter’s Catholic Church. John Tanner’s Eagle Scout Project was to create a baseball practice facility with Batter Up Foundation/ DC Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (DC-RBI). Batter Up Foundation/DC RBI is a non-profit that provides opportunities for personal growth and character education through a combination of mentoring and baseball development. The practice facility includes a batting cage, pitching mound, soft toss practice area and other equipment. It is located in SW DC, Ward 6, near the Randall Baseball Field. This past March, John managed a crew of close to 30 Boy Scouts, baseball players, coaches and parents. The team shoveled 32 tons of gravel dust into place, erected the 72’ batting cage, laid artificial turf, assembled other equipment, and cleared vegetation and trash from around Randall Field. Any boys age 11 to 18 who are
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interested in joining Boy Scout Troop 380 should contact Helen Haislmaier at 202-544-1311, helenh@mit.edu. or Scoutmaster Patrick Merkle at 202-255-7470, pgmerkle@aol.com. Troop 380 meets on Wednesday evenings at St. Peter’s Catholic Church hall (2nd and C sts. SE), starting back up again on Sept. 5.
10K Dash Kid’s Fun Run
Kids run along the C&O Canal Towpath at 1015 33rd St. NW on July 29, 8:00 a.m. $15. The runs benefits Back on My Feet. Back on My Feet is a nonprofit organization that promotes the self-sufficiency of homeless populations by engaging them in running as a means to build confidence, strength and selfesteem. capitalsprints.com
KidSpy Spies on Screen-Stormbreaker
“When the doorbell rings at three in the morning, it’s never good news.”-Stormbreaker. Alex Rider, the central character of Anthony Horowitz’s best-selling series comes to life in Stormbreaker, the movie. Alex Rider (Alex Pettyfer) is a normal teenager who lives with his uncle Ian (Ewan McGregor), a nondescript bank manager…or so it seems, until he disappears under mysterious circumstances. Alex soon learns that Ian was a spy for Britain’s secret intelligence service MI6, and the lad is recruited to take on a dangerous mission for them: to infiltrate the organization of a sinister billionaire (Mickey Rourke). Within days, he goes from schoolboy to super spy-but will Alex’s first assignment be his last? After the screening, you will debrief with a real former spy who will uncover Alex’s secrets and let you know if his tradecraft is true-to-life. For ages: 8 and up (one adult required for every three KidSpy recruits). $7. July 11, 2:00-4:00 p.m. Interna-
tional Spy Museum, 800 F St. NW. 202-393-7798. spymuseum.org
Curious George and Read.gov
The Library of Congress has a new campaign that promotes the value of parents reading to their children. Hints for reading aloud to your children. (1) Choose a book that lends itself to reading aloudfolktales, funny or scary books are always fun. (2) Make reading time special. Find a cozy, comfortable place to read. (3) Be versatile. You read to them or they read to you. Take turns. (4) Introduce the author and illustrator. Discuss what they do with your child. Saying the name of the author and illustrator makes the connection that books are created by real people. (5) Talk about the book-ask questions about what they liked and did not like, what they found interesting, and more. (6) Show the pictures while you read. (7) Read with expression. (8) Read together EVERY DAY! read.gov/curious
Selections from the Silly Symphonies at the National Gallery of Art
From 1929 to 1939, Walt Disney produced the animated short film series the Silly Symphonies, a revolutionary celebration of sound and image as never experienced before. The highly successful series gave Disney the opportunity to encourage animators and composers to experiment with their art forms. The 75 shorts produced throughout the decade strove to explore new animation techniques, develop original and soon-to-be classic characters like Donald Duck and Pluto, and interpret musical scores with moving pictures in unexpected ways. This special selection of 10 35-mm films from the Disney vault features The Tortoise and the Hare (1935), The Three Little Pigs (1933), King
Neptune (1932), The Goddess of Spring (1934), Flowers and Trees (1932), Midnight in a Toy Shop (1930), Bugs in Love (1932), Babes in the Woods (1932), Water Babies (1935), and The Cookie Carnival (1935). Approximately 60 minutes. Free. For ages 4, up. July 7, at 10:30 a.m. and July 8 at 11:30 a.m. East Building Concourse, Auditorium, National Gallery of Art, 4th St. and Constitution Ave. NW. 202-7374215. nga.gov
Colonial Crafts Family Day at Marine Corps Museum
Bring your kids to the Marine Corps Museum to learn about the early days of the Marine Corps. Your kids will make their own tricorn hats, write with quill pens, and play colonial games. Free. National Museum of the Marine Corps, 18900 Jefferson Davis Highway, Triangle, VA. 703-784-6116. usmcmuseum.org
Virginia Children’s Theater Company “The Prince and the Troubadour”
1st Stage, Tysons Corner’s award-winning professional theater, continues to pursue its desire to offer quality, family-friendly, daytime programming by producing “The Prince and the Troubadour,” a witty, charming, all-ages musical by local playwrights Rex Daugherty and Doug Wilder. The play follows the comic misadventures of a medieval Prince as he attempts to rescue his ne’er-do-well Troubadour friend from the clutches of an evil Witch. The Prince teams up with a savvy, martial arts-wielding Princess and, together, they fight their way past bandits, trolls and bad-hair days to save the Troubadour. $10. Runs through July 29. 1st Stage Theatre, 1524 Spring Hill Rd., McLean, VA. 703-854-1856. 1ststagetysons. org H
The Sanchez siblings, grades 2, 7 and 8, attend Perry Street Prep together
CALL US FOR A TOUR: 202.551.0832 or ATTEND AN ORIENTATION: Saturdays at 9:00 a.m.
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School Notes Compiled by Susan Braun Johnson
U.S. Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, World War II Memorial, and the Washington Monument. The tour was skillfully guided by Ms. Lea Marmora, seventh grade homeroom teacher, and several class parents. Highlights of the tour included lunch at the foot of the Lincoln Memorial and a spin on the Smithsonian Castle carousel. Now on to eighth grade!
Go, Fight, Win!
St. Peter School Class of 2012. Photo: Megan Wurm
St. Peter School News Moving On Up!
On Friday, June 1, St. Peter School graduates donned caps and gowns and processed in St. Peter’s Church for Mass and the graduation ceremony. Honors awarded included the St. Peter School Citizenship Award for promoting citizenship in school and displaying an understanding of civic responsibility to Zach Denton, Mara Herdic, Harrison Howe and Sydney Simmons; the Presidential Award for Academic Achievement for significant academic growth and achievement in the arts to Lauren Bellamy and Jack Von Kannon; the Presidential Award for Academic Excellence for maintaining a grade point average of 90per cent or higher to Billy Hickmott, Jensen Kasting, Arielle Melcher, Monet Rogers and Matthew Woodhull; the St. Peter’s 120 H HillRag | July 2012
Award to the student who embodies the spirit of St. Peter School through solid academic achievement, leadership, spiritual development, and demonstrating respect for classmates and teachers to Jensen Kasting; and the Distinguished Student Award for excelling academically and displaying exemplary character to Billy Hickmott. Also, the newest members of the O’Sullivan Society were recognized for attending St. Peter School from Pre-K through eighth grade, including Zach Denton, Mara Herdic, Billy Hickmott, Courtney Hardy, Jensen Kasting, Alex Mastel, Arielle Melcher, Tony Perez, Jack Von Kannon and Matthew Woodhull. Following the conferring of diplomas, a reception was held in the Church Hall hosted by the seventh grade class. Congratulations to the St. Peter’s Class of 2012! Enjoy your summer!
Seventh Grade Tours Mall by Bike!
St. Peter School’s seventh-grade rounded out the school year touring the National Mall - this time by bike. On the tour, students visited and gave oral reports on many the Mall’s historic sites including the Supreme Court,
What a way to spend a school day! St. Peter School students and faculty enjoyed the annual school-wide field day. Led by P.E. instructor Mr. Sand and the DC YMCA, the entire school was divided into two teams. Students sported team colors of blue or white and spent the morning playing field games. The day was rounded out with pizza lunch, frozen treats and the annual 8th grade-faculty basketball game. Congratulations blue team! St. Peter School, 422 Third St, SE, 202-5441618, www.stpetersinterparish.org
Capitol Hill Cluster School News Congratulations, Graduates!
All three Cluster School campuses celebrated the end of the year with
Enthusiastic Cluster School fifth-graders sing “I Believe” at their graduation ceremony.
Moving Up ceremonies. Congratulations to our Peabody kindergarteners, Watkins fifth graders, and StuartHobson eighth graders.
Chill Out and Read
Although school is out, every student at the Cluster has been given an assignment: Read! The school kicked off its summer reading program— Chill Out and Read—with a special night at Watkins Elementary. After enjoying a spaghetti dinner, families moved from classroom to classroom to listen to teachers and special guests read nature- and career-themed books. Students also drew their own graphic tales, decorated book bags, registered for DC Public Library cards, and petted dogs, chicks, and a python. Guests included National Park rangers, a NASA scientist, a local children’s author and graphic novelist, and the Nationals’ Screech. Students received reading lists and logs and a promise of a chilly treat at next August’s back-toschool picnic if they read regularly.
Science in Space
to the lead volunteers Mike Soderman, Becky Richards, Shayna Rudick, and Valerie Jablow. - 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
Ludlow-Taylor Elementary School Community Supports the Library
Thanks to devoted librarian Ms. Woodard, spring saw an outpouring of community support for the library. Everybody Wins draws mentors each week to read with students at recess. One mentoring group, BET, went a giant step further, donating a huge planting and clean-up and benches for the atrium garden. Through Shake-
In late May a science experiment designed by three Stuart-Hobson MiddleSchoolers went into orbit on the International Space Station. The project, by eighth-graders Kyra Smith, Daiana James, and Jakayla Smallwood, explores whether hay bacillus Pre-K students showcase Ancient Egypt at Ludlow-Taylor’s breaks down human waste Museum Night. (represented by brown egg) in microgravity as well as in Earth’s speare in Schools, fifth graders selectgravity. The project—one of only ed Romeo and Juliet and rehearsed all 12 from across the country selected year, culminating in a performance on for the flight—launched into space stage at the Folger. Ms. Woodard won aboard the Space X Dragon, the first a generous Capitol Hill Community privately operated spacecraft to dock Foundation grant in May. with the International Space Station. The project will be “turned on” by an Year-End Celebrations Early childhood students hosted astronaut and then let go for 45 days. a fabulous Museum Night, showcasRunning for the Cluster School ing what they’ve learned about counAlmost 3,000 runners—including tries they’ve studied all year. Sporting 180 Cluster School students—turned elaborate homemade costumes, stuout for this year’s Capitol Hill Clas- dents regaled visitors with facts about sic. One hundred parent volunteers Ancient Egypt. Visitors sampled sustaffed the event, and 33 teachers shi and posted wishes on a Japanese either ran or volunteered. The race wishing tree, strolled under Chinese raised $30,000 to support our teach- parasols in front of a Great Wall, and ers and our students. Many thanks sampled Moroccan delicacies by a
sandbox Sahara desert. Children ran from classroom to classroom, getting passports stamped. The night ended in the Rosa B. Simon multipurpose room, with tables celebrating families’ and teachers’ countries of origin. The year’s end also brought a wildly creative production of Alice in Wonderland, starring third through fifth graders. Fifth graders enjoyed a PTA-supported Odyssey boat cruise to pave their way to Stuart Hobson.
Looking Ahead to Next Year: Proving What’s Possible
Ludlow-Taylor won a $98,000 “Proving What’s Possible” grant from DCPS. The grant will fund a center to teach reading instruction to teachers from within and outside the school. Sara McLean, Ludlow-Taylor ES, 659 G St., NE,
Eliot-Hine Middle School News
Congratulations to the Class of 2012!
June 11, 2012 was a banner day at Eliot-Hine Middle School, as we said both “Congratulations” and “Farewell” to the Class of 2012. They certainly had a grand send-off. The auditorium was packed with proud parents and cheering friends. Principal Tynika Young was joined on the stage by Monica Warren-Jones, Ward 6 State Board of Education (SBOE) Representative, and Mark King, Cluster 8 Instructional Superintendent. Most impressive of all were the presentations by members of the 2012 Class themselves, speeches by Cierra Roberts, 8th Grade President; Korey Carter, Valedictorian; and Tyana O’Neal, Salutatorian; and performances by Kianga Bunn, vocalist; and Dwayne Driver, pianist. I asked Ms. Warren-Jones for her thoughts on this occasion. She replied that it was “a pleasure and an honor” to be invited to participate. She noted that we often focus on the transition from kindergarten to first grade and the all-important high school graduation, but that
Ward 6 SBOE Representative, Monica WarrenJones, congratulates a recent graduate.
this commencement activity had reminded her “how important it is to also honor our middle school students - as they have just accomplished a tremendous feat - academically, socially, and emotionally.” As she shook hands with graduates, she asked them where they planned to attend high school in the fall. Happily, a plurality will find themselves at the newly refurbished Eastern just across the street. But many others will attend other top tier high schools in the city including Cesar Chavez, Friendship Public Charter, Banneker, McKinley Tech, School Without Walls, and Wilson. It’s exciting to contemplate the bright future that awaits them. One day our own “claim to fame” may be that we knew them before they became rich and famous. – Elizabeth Nelson, Eliot-Hine Middle School, 1830 Constitution Ave NE. Tynika Young, Principal. www.eliothinemiddleschool.org/ or 202-939-5380.
Capitol Hill Day School News The Power of Small
Like a pebble dropped into water, the Capitol Hill Day School community exerts a ripple effect far beyond our historic brick building just blocks from the Capitol. CHDS students, faculty, and parents embody the school’s commitment to community, many making their homes on Capitol Hill as a direct result of the presence of CHDS. capitalcommunitynews.com H 121
kids&family off their acting, singing and dancing to student audiences and an evening showcase open to the community. Congrats to our talented students and thank you to the staff, parents and community members who helped support the student production! - Samantha Caruth, J. O. Wilson Elementary School, 660 K St, NE, 202-6984733, www.dcps.dc.gov/jowilson.
River Park Nursery School News
CHDS parents collected and delivered over 200 bags of donations to 8 area charities. Photo: Deborah Bonito.
From the beginning, civic engagement has been an integral part of CHDS teaching and learning, as reflected in the School’s Mission to help children learn “to live a life of purpose and value.” In developmentally appropriate ways, CHDS children learn the value of service to others by first learning to care for their most immediate community: their classroom and classmates. CHDS students grow to see themselves as members of a broader community. With over 300 trips annually, our field education program takes us to every quadrant of the City and well beyond. Students and parents enthusiastically support partnerships with area service organizations. As part of our 2011-2012 weekly “Extra Lunch” program, CHDS families made and donated over 2500 lunches and almost 250 bags of groceries to a neighborhood food center. This civic commitment doesn’t end at graduation, as evidenced by the many CHDS alumni and current and alum parents who are leaders and supporters of local institutions, such as the Capitol Hill Community Foundation, CHAMPS, the Folger Shakespeare Library, the Hill Center, Barracks Row, and more. At Capitol Hill Day School, community commitment is active, intentional, and long-standing.- Jason Gray, 122 H HillRag | July 2012
Head of School, and Jane Angarola, 210 South Carolina Avenue, SE; janea@chds.org.
J.O. Wilson Elementary School News French Students win awards in National Contest
Students at J. O. Wilson Elementary School won awards in the 2012 FLES National French Language Competition, sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of French (AATF). Students performed French language listening and speaking skills and competed against 6000 students nationally in grades 1-3. Students earned rankings many places with the highest award in 2nd place. J.O. Wilson’s winning French program has been led by Monsieur Florentino Martinez since 1987. Félicitations á nos étudiants!
Students ended their year at River Park Nursery School with a Metro field trip downtown. They rode Metro to the Mall and explored the Enid Haupt Gardens behind the Castle and also enjoyed a ride on the carousel. It was a wonderful way to end the year. See you in the fall. For more information about River Park Nursery School, please email Tina Ashworth at cristinaashworth@hotmail.com or online: www.riverparknurseryschool.org. The school is located at 212 E. Capitol Street, NE. 202 546-7767
Amidon-Bowen News Funds Will Enhance AmidonBowen’s 2012-2013 Program •
DCPS Office of public Education Facilities Modernization is already working on the $5,000,000 renovation of all classrooms and new administrative offices this
summer. They will also reconfigure the front entrance to provide handicap access. The project is scheduled to be completed in time for school opening this August. • Amidon-Bowen will receive a Target grant totaling $750,000 over the next three years for literacy and increasing reading proficiency. The school will purchase much needed guided reading materials to support students in small group literacy instruction. Amidon-Bowen benefited from Target’s pledge to give $1 billion nationwide to education by 2015, through a major “Library Makeover” unveiled August 2011. • The DCPS “PWP” program (Proving What’s Possible) announced that Amidon will receive a major grant of $260,000 to be used to bring “time, talent, and technology to make the dramatic gains that we all desire and that our students all deserve.” • The City Council has approved $500,000 for a new playground at Amidon-Bowen. The new playground will be moved to the front area of the school. • The Mandarin Oriental Hotel has set a goal for 2012-2013 is to raise $20,000 for teacher programs at Amidon-Bowen Elementary. DCPS and Corporate sponsors and are making commitments to the success of Amidon-Bowen students as they will feed to the new Jefferson
Annie on the Stage
J.O. Wilson ES students presented the musical ‘Annie’ at the Atlas in late May. The amazing cast, under the leadership of music teacher Mr. Michael Taylor, impressed audiences with this well-known story about a little orphan, her orphanage family and her new home with Mr. Warbucks. Our students performed at the Atlas Performing Arts Center and showed
Miss Bernadette speaks to River Park students as they gaze into the reflecting pool at Moon Gate Garden
International Baccalaureate (IB) Academy that received their first funding as part of $480,000 from DCPS. Meg Brinckman. AmidonBowen Elementary School, 401 I St., SW; 202-724-4867.
Capitol Hill Montessori at Logan News DCPAY Grant for New Playground!
Climbing wall, here we come! CHM@L has been awarded a $10K DC Physical Activity for Youth (DC PAY) Grant from the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE). The grant will fund a rock climbing wall, new athletic equipment to expose our students to many sports (i.e., archery, bowling, etc.), and a daily activity burst contest to get our kids moving! In addition, CHM@L will host a Harvest Festival in October in conjunction with DC School Garden/Farm to School Week to celebrate and teach families how to increase both physical activity and nutrition while having fun.
Moving Up And On
CHM@L congratulates its first graduating class: Andrew Awkard, Sanari Bryan-Chavis, Anthony David, Maddie Houston, Abdoul Nevels, Niamh Nolan, Thurnell Outlaw, Hannah Scofield, and James Stewart. Farewell, friends! We are so proud of you. Capitol Hill Montessori at Logan, 215 G St. NE, 202.698.4467, http://capitolhillmontessorischool.org
STARS Event Highlights Public Charter School Community
The District of Columbia Association of Chartered Public Schools recently held its annual STARS Tribute Gala to recognize the achievements of students, teachers and administrators in D.C.’s thriving public charter school community Nominees included students, parents and teachers from District public charter schools. All of the schools represent a cross section of charter schools, which currently ed-
ucate 41 percent of students in District public schools. In the past year charter enrollment has increased by eight percent. Mayor Vincent Gray started the event by presenting the award for Most Outstanding All-Around Student to Shamir Fauntleroy and Justin Richardson (pictured above) who attend Thurgood Marshal Academy and Mary McLeod Bethune Day Academy, respectively. In addition to highlighting students currently attending public charter schools, the ceremony recognized the importance of college preparedness. Maya Foster of Friendship Collegiate Academy earned the Most Outstanding College Graduate. She credited her years at Friendship with preparing her for the University of North Carolina. The program honored the work of charter teachers, school leaders and administrators. Trisha Nakano of Elsie Whitlow Stokes Public Charter School was awarded Most Valuable Administrator, and Catlin Reilly of Cesar Chavez Public Charter Schools for Public Policy received Most Outstanding Teacher – High School.
Washington Latin PCS Washington Latin’s First Graduation Makes History
Washington Latin Public Charter School’s first senior class will make history when they graduate on June 8. They will be the first students ever to graduate from a DC public school with a classical curriculum. The school has the distinction of having every student in its first senior class accepted to college. The graduation ceremony, held on June 8 at Georgetown University’s Gaston Hall, will mark the culmination of an educational odyssey that began in 2006, when Washington Latin welcomed its first students. The composition of the senior class reflects the school’s mission to make a “challenging classical education accessible to students from throughout the District of Columbia.” The graduates come from all eight wards of the City, and the ethnic mix of the students closely matches that of the city itself. A third of the students come from low-income families, and capitalcommunitynews.com H 123
kids&family
Friends Community School’s eighth grade graduation class of 2012.
many are the first members of their families to attend college. Mark Lerner, president of the school’s Board of Governors, said, “As our first seniors move on to their new challenges, we feel great pride. Our students accepted the challenge of learning in an environment that requires hard work and personal commitment, and they have reached new heights as students and individuals. Their success is due, in no small measure, to the caring and competence of an extraordinary faculty and administrative team. ” Latin’s graduating seniors were accepted by a total of 120 colleges and universities such as UCLA, the University of Wisconsin, Bennington, the Citadel, Bucknell and Pepperdine. They have already been awarded more than $1.5 million in academic scholarships. Washington Latin was modeled after Boston Latin, the nation’s first public school, founded in 1635. Its curriculum is based on the ancient truths of Greece and Rome and complemented with courses to prepare students for today’s global world. Students take at least three years of Latin and either French, Chinese or Arabic in addition. Extensive studies in math 124 H HillRag | July 2012
and science are offered at each grade level. The school’s independent reading program fosters a love of reading. Both Latin’s middle and upper schools have been designated Tier One High Performing schools by the DC Public Charter School Board. In 2011, its middle school achieved the highest proficiency score in reading of any charter school in DC and the upper school achieved the second highest among charter high schools. The next step in Latin’s development is a new home. The school is now planning to consolidate all three of its current facilities in one location. No site has yet been chosen. Washington Latin Public Charter School, 4115 16th Street NW, 202-223 111;injaka@latinpcs.org.
Friends Community School
Friends Community School graduated 22 eighth grade students in a ceremony held Thursday, June 7, 2012. Each graduate was permitted a few minutes to address the family members and friends in attendance. Some students gave speeches, others recited poetry and some played musical instruments. Two students sang “For Good” from the musical Wicked.
The lyrics, which articulated a theme recurring throughout the ceremony, included: So much of me Is made from what I learned from you I do believe I have been Changed for the better Because I knew you I have been changed for good The school gave each student a copy of Benjamin Franklin: Autobiography, Poor Richard, and Later Writings to commemorate the recent graduating class trip to Philadelphia. Faculty members also prepared a book of personal affirmations for each student. Next year, the graduates will start high school at a variety of schools in the region including the Eleanor Roosevelt High School Science and Technology Program, DeMatha Catholic High School, Sidwell Friends School, St. John’s College High School, Indian Creek School, Sandy Spring Friends School, Woodrow Wilson High School, Key School and Elizabeth Seton High School. 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. –Eric Rosenthal. www.friendscommunityschool.org.
Community Academy Public Charter School Online To Host Promotion Ceremony
Graduates of CAPCS Online and their families will have the opportunity to celebrate together at a promotion ceremony and luncheon. Graduating from online school is a cause for celebration – offline. Ten local eighth-grade graduates of Community Academy Public Charter School Online (CAPCS Online) participated in an in-person promotion ceremony on June 15 at Ernst & Virginia Amos Campus. The ceremony and luncheon provided an opportunity for students and families to celebrate this benchmark together in an intimate, lively setting. Graduation ceremonies, field trips and other events help foster fun memories and close relationships for CAPCS Online students. The tuition-free online public school offers highly individualized online education for District of Columbia students
Storming the Barricades at Two Rivers
Students from Two Rivers Public Charter School, one of only 22 city charter schools classified as ‘high performing’ by the city’s charter board, were part of a coalition of charter school leaders and students calling on the council to make sure public charter schools finally receive equal per-student funding. Jessica Wodatch, Two Rivers’ founder and executive director, is in the second row with the students.
in grades K-8, encourages student participation in extracurricular clubs and frequently organizes academic and social outings to museums, skate parks, zoos and other community destinations. Enrollment in CAPCS Online for the 2012-2013 school year is open to students in grades K-8 who live anywhere in the District through February 2013. CAPCS Online might be the right choice for a variety of students, including: • Advanced learners who are either performing above grade level in one or more subjects or want to increase their knowledge beyond basic course offerings in specific subjects. • Struggling students who need more time to grasp concepts or need an environment with fewer distractions.
•
Students from military families, who might be prone to moving and changing schools more often than the average student. • Athletes and performers who need classes that can travel with them for practices, rehearsals, and competitions. Parents and students interested in the CAPCS Online program and the social opportunities it provides may visit www.k12.com/ capcs/ for details or call 866-3399912 with any questions. **There will be no School Notes in August. The next issue will be published in the September issue. Please send submissions of 250 words to schools@hillrag.com by August 16th. Thank you and have a great summer. – SBJ. H capitalcommunitynews.com H 125
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Homes & Gardens Summer Snowballs On Capitol Hill Hydrangeas Everywhere You Look
M
Article and Photos by Rindy O’brien
any folks call the hydrangea blooms, the summer snowball. The large white balls can get as large as a basketball, but most often are the size of your average snowball. It is easily considered one of the best-loved garden plants by garden writers and has been one of the top selling bushes by local nurseries
like Homestead Gardens and Meadow Farms. In fact, Meadow Farms reports that it has surpassed the azalea bushes in sales for the past two years. Hydrangeas are a southern tradition. We are talking the south of Eudora Welty, William Faulkner, and Tennessee Williams where folks enjoyed a stroll through the garden
sipping their lemonades and admiring the flowers. The big bush of puffy pink, blue, purple or white blooms are a mainstay of most gardens south of the Mason-Dixon line. Suddenly, these bushes have also become part of everyone’s garden on Capitol Hill. There isn’t a block on the Hill that doesn’t feature two or three gardens
Snowball -The white blooms are commonly called summer snowball or mop heads. capitalcommunitynews.com H 127
Capitol Hill Presbyterian – The blue hydrangea fills the side of the Capitol Hill Presbyterian Church at 4th and Independence Avenue, SE and has been the heart and soul of the Presbyterian garden for years.
with massive puffballs of blue, pink and purple this year. But not everyone is a fan. This past February, Madonna stirred up a lot of controversy when she announced that she “absolutely loathes hydrangeas” when she had been presented with a bundle of hydrangeas by a fan. However, Toni Morrison described the hydrangea in her award-winning book, “Tar Baby,” “A dead hydrangea is as intricate and lovely as one in bloom.” It is certainly snowing hydran-
gea balls on the Hill, and time for us all to get a quick primer in all that is hydrangeas, whether you are a fan or not.
Three Popular Kinds
The smooth hydrangea has large fluffy globes of flowers, and is often the white, with just a hint of green. The flowers often get so large that after a summer rain they just flop over. They can tolerate sunny locations, and are native to this area. The most popular variety is the “Annabelle.” It can become
A smooth Hydrangea at the corner of 3rd and D Streets SE. Photo: Melissa Ashabranner 128 H HillRag | July 2012
a large plant and some gardeners plant a number of them together to make a hedge, similar to using boxwoods or other woody plants. The smooth hydrangea blooms every year, even if you prune it back in the winter. Another popular hydrangea on the Hill is the big leaf hydrangea that is sometimes called the garden hydrangea, French hydrangea, or common hydrangea. It produces the pink, blue, violet, and deep purple flowers. The flowers are smaller than the smooth hydrangea and are often called mop heads or lace caps. These hydrangeas are used by florists in their arrangements, and probably would have been what was presented to Madonna. There are dwarf varieties of this hydrangea, and these seem to be a favorite in Hill gardens. The plant is native to Japan. Over in Asian Valley at the US Arboretum, there are a number of the native species in bloom. The “Nikko Blue” is one of the most popular sold in this area. The third variety of hydrangea is the peegee hydrangea, or the panicle hydrangea. These flower into a football shaped cluster as the summer progresses. They are often white that turn to green, or pink that will turn into red or bronze color over the summer months. There are dwarf varieties of these plants, but the regular
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9th and A Streets – The hydrangea at the corner of 9th and A Street, SE show the size that the plants can grow compared to the tree in the same yard. capitalcommunitynews.com H 129
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plant can grow to eight feet high and is less popular on the Hill because of the space they can claim in the garden. These plants are native to China and Russia. Some of the more popular varieties sold in this area include Limelight, Pinky Winky and the recently released, Bobo, a dwarf plant. In addition to these general categories of plants, there are climbing hydrangeas that produce the lace cap flowers, and the oak leaf hydrangea. There are a number of oak leaf hydrangeas on the Hill, and its popularity springs from the fact that it doesn’t need any pruning. The flowers are white and fade to a pinkish purple color.
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Besides our nostalgic connection to the flower, one of the reasons that the hydrangeas have become so popular is that generally they do well as a shade plant. Most garden experts say that the plant does well with four to five hours of sun, preferably morning sun. Some of the newer varieties have been bred to tolerate more sun, so it is important to check labels when you buy a new plant. The more sun your hydrangea gets, the stronger the stems will become, and for those plants with giant blooms this is a necessity. But for the shade loving Hill gardens, it is the perfect companion to lavender, lilies, and other summer flowers. Hydrangeas also need plenty of water, and this year’s cool spring weather and plenty of rain is another reason we have been fortunate to have so many summer snowballs in our Hill gardens. The hydrangea roots don’t go as deep as other plants, which is why they need to be refreshed pretty regularly. And in hot weather, the plants should never be allowed to completely dry out. Lots of mulch helps hold the moisture between waterings. Don’t assume that if you see your hydrangea wilted on a very hot day that it is dying for water. It may perk up on its own when it is cooler. Check the soil and see if it needs water, or else you may overwater the plant.
The myth that hydrangeas need to be pruned annually has pretty much been countered, another reason gardeners are more willing to plant these gems. In most cases, the plant can be pruned after the bloom. But it is crucial to know what kind of hydrangea you have, because some bloom only on old wood and others bloom only on new wood. A plant that flowers on old wood can only produce a flower bud on a stem that has been growing for a year or longer. Big leaf hydrangeas, mop heads and lace caps, flower on old wood. Most experts will tell you that pruning should be done to reduce the plant size, remove old and non-productive branches, remove frost damaged leaves, or just to deadhead the blossoms. After that, it is best to just let the hydrangea be a hydrangea.
Hydrangea Colors
There is always the magic of the color of hydrangeas. Depending on the availability of aluminum in the soil, the flowers will turn out to be different colors. More aluminum will result in a blue color, and alkaline soils with less aluminum will produce more pink. There are different formulas available in garden guides that will help you concoct a liquid soil drink to change your flower’s colors. Excellent books on hydrangeas include the Southern Living Garden book by Steve Bender and a book by Lason-Hall & Rothera, “Hydrangeas: A Garden Guide.” There are also many excellent websites, including the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service site. The Hill may not have had any snow this past winter, but we are certainly enjoying the summer snowballs. With the summer ahead of us, and the oak leaf hydrangeas and the peegee hydrangeas just getting ready to show their colors, get out an enjoy the delicate wonder of the Hill’s newest favorite flower. Rindy O’Brien lives on Capitol Hill and adores the hydrangeas. For comments write Rindyobrien@gmail.com H
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homesgardens gardenspot
A Pet-Safe Oasis
A Garden Built for Puppy Love
A
by Derek Thomas
nne Patterson has spent a lot of time traveling the globe with her job in the Foreign Service. Egypt, Iraq, the Republic of Georgia, and Indonesia have all been home to Anne. And for the South Carolina native, a long term, state side assignment was the perfect time to put down a few roots. Anne had lived in Baltimore during graduate school and for her Capitol Hill felt “right and similar enough to my Baltimore neighborhood that it made good
wanted to own, not rent this time. After years of moving every three to four years, Anne knew home ownership and the prospect of creating a great space, both inside and out was definitely her goal.
The Home
Once Anne found her new home at 1420 G St SE, the home and its vast back yard had to be tamed and reworked. Renovations inside and the overgrown yard filled with large trees all had to be changed to align with Anne’s style. She knew the garden had to suit the dogs and more importantly be plant safe. During the first year she cleared trees and had an irrigation system installed. With a huge, by Hill standards, rear garden the irrigation was a must to support a lawn so her companions could frolic the days away. The lawn was well used during the first year after its installation but soon became like a “green bowling alley and Anne knew it was time to change the space to something less rectilinear, less green bowling alley. Anne found a picture of a garden that became the inspiration; it was long rectangle yet had a swooping pathway and a great shed to the rear. Seemed simple and straightforward, right? Well says Anne “the first challenge was getting the pathways to meander yet not look contrived, they
Coneflower and Camellia share the stage with ornamental grasses
had to have enough movement to look natural yet not too much to look over-worked.” Her mason rose to the occasion and after several changes the path was perfect. The shed was custom built and is truly the balance and anchor that the space needed. Anne then hired a landscape architect and landscape designer to bring her lawn full circle. The goal was to have garden where the dogs could nibble leaves and branches while they played, without any fear of being poisoned. Anne found a desired pallet of plants that were tough, disease resistant, and safe for her pets.
The Garden
Anne Gracie and Fritzel (counter clockwise from top) share a space on the garden bench
sense. The Hill was perfect for me. I love old houses, Metro access was important, and living in a place where I could have a sense of community was a must.” Anne knew her new home had to have a big enough back yard for her Miniature Schnauzers Gracie and Fritzel. She also 132 H HillRag | July 2012
The garden has winding paths and lush borders, a real backyard oasis
Anne’s garden is now a wonderful sweeping border garden with Iris and Daylily, cat and humming bird Mint, Ferns and Honeysuckle, Hibiscus and true English Roses. The long rectangular space now seems soothing and tranquil with gardens, lawns and hardscape in proper proportions and well defined yet smooth transitions from plant to plant and space to space. The formal dinging area and sitting benches are a part of the garden and don’t overcome or encumber the space. The large sitting stone under the mature Red Oak offers visitors an unlikely reprieve. The sheds strong lines are well balanced by the gentle curves of the path leading up to it. The lawn now rolls along instead
• • • • • • • •
Leucothoe Dicentra Acornus Euphorbia Daffodils Crabapple Hyacinths Catnip/ low toxicity to cats only
Perfect for our four legged friends: (Partial list)
Ferns soften even the harshest brick boarders
of its former green bowling box appearance. Garden beds have many textures and interest and most importantly the dogs are free to wander and roam without ever giving their guardian Anne worry about what plants they nibble on.
References:
Two websites that were very useful along the quest for plants were www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/ plants and www.vet.purdue.edu
• • • • • • • •
• Agastache • Aquilegia • Baptisia • Brunnera Campanula Corydalis Echinacea Hemerocallis Hibiscus Pennisetum Rosa Veronica
Safe plants and those commonly thought safe
Anne wants to share the list of plants that many feel are OK around their pets, plants that are common and widely used in Washington Landscapes yet potentially harmful to your four legged friends.
Not pet friendly: (Partial list of more commonly used) • • •
An ornamental Honeysuckle climbs the iron trellis with ease
Hydrangea Geranium Clematis
English Roses make the space a truly fragrant experience
When creating your prefect urban oasis, keep in mind some of your pets who share the outdoors with you may take a taste now and again and make sure the plants you have chosen are pet friendly goes a long way in protecting your companions. Anne did just that and now Anne, Gracie and Fritzel can be found spending long summer evenings in their pet safe oasis. Derek Thomas is principal of Thomas Landscapes. His garden designs have been featured on HGTV ’s Curb Appeal, and Get It Sold. His weekly garden segment can be seen on WTTG/Fox 5 in Washington. He can be reached at www.thomaslandscapes.com or 301.642.5182. You can find and friend us on Facebook at Facebook/Thomas Landscapes. H
capitalcommunitynews.com H 133
Business Profile
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Street Construction is a Hill-based company, owned by Greg Selfridge, that specializes in transforming dilapidated houses into stunning, welcoming homes. Greg and project manager Max Webber are experienced in bringing old townhomes into the 21st century, while maintaining the houses’ historical integrity and charm. Because they both live on the Hill, they appreciate its historic fabric and the impact their work will have on their clients’ day-to-day lives. Greg noted, “We may be working on an individual house, but we also recognize we are renovating someone’s home. We take pride in making sure the renovation experience is a positive one from the start of the project through to completion.” D Street Construction (DST) grew from Greg’s experience working in residential construction and from his redevelopment work. In 2005, he decided to shift his primary focus to renovation and started his own company. His main concentration is to bring everything up to code and to update the structure to meet modern standards, while ensuring that the house retains its historical charm. “Part of my job is to provide the client with a lot of information,” he says, so that DST’s clients can benefit from his and Max’s expertise. Max spends his days on-site, overseeing and inspecting the day-to-day renovation work. After building custom homes in his native California, he made his way to DC via Philadelphia, where he continued to develop his home-restoration expertise. In addition to Max and Greg’s experience, one of the keys to DST’s success is their permanent employees. Although they subcontract electrical and plumbing work, they have eight full-time employees who are specialists in carpentry, painting, drywall hanging, masonry, or demolition, which gives this company “a high level of accountability,” according to Greg.
What Distinguishes D ST?
Another factor that contributes to DST’s success is that they treat each job as part of a potentially ongoing relationship. Ashley Flanagan, one of this company’s return clients, praised Greg for his “responsiveness,” and “his ability to provide options and help the client make the best decisions…even on a limited budget.” During her renovation, Ashley had to replace a cast iron staircase and a stained glass window; Greg was able to find specialty 134 H HillRag | July 2012
craftsmen whose work would meet the historic codes that regulate renovations on the Hill. Greg and Max believe that home renovation is a partnership. They place a priority on frequent, open communication with their clients and they put time up front into understanding the details that will make the difference. They also make sure that their projects remain livable rather than dusty, disorganized work sites, which their clients surely appreciate. Because of Greg’s years of experience renovating homes on the Hill, his clients “don’t have to worry about permits,” according to Ashley. Greg acknowledged that “…navigating the Permit and Regulatory process can be intimidating. We use our years of experience and our understanding of the process to guide our clients and their projects through the bureaucracy quickly and correctly.” As local residents, Greg and Max say that they have a higher level of accountability and visibility because, as Max pointed out, they often “run into clients at Eastern Market.” Committed to the broader Hill community, DST worked with DC government to renovate the field at Ludlow-Taylor Elementary School. Whether Greg and Max are helping to restore a community field for a Little League team, remodeling a bathroom, or renovating an entire house, they continue to build their reputation as excellent craftsmen who also happen to be a couple of local guys. Greg Selfridge and Max Webber can be contacted through their website: http://www.dstreetconstruction.com/ Ellen Boomer is an Eastern Market resident, former teacher, current tutor, and aspiring freelance writer. She can be reached at emboomer@gmail.com. H
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capitalcommunitynews.com H 135
The Capitol Hill Garden Club presents
Dear Garden Problem Lady, Is there a way to stop squirrels from devouring our tomatoes just as the tomatoes start to ripen?
Yes. Try so-called ‘row covers’ – a thin, light-permeable fabric, available at any hardware store. You can cover a cage over the entire tomato plant – after fruit has begun to form. Or you cut the row cover fabric into pieces and tie one piece firmly around each green tomato, like a little kerchief. Sunshine can still reach the tomato to ripen it.
I have been told that annuals are “heavy feeders.” What do they eat, and how often?
There are two basic fertilizers types – water-soluble, such as MiracleGro – and time-release granular, such as Osmacote, which you placed on top of the soil around the base of the plant. Use either weekly or even both at the same time, or alternate them. Over-fertilizing can cause root burn – so cut back if your annuals start looking tired. Sometimes merely cutting annuals back can spurt more flowers. I have heard people say that a container garden should have three different types of things. But they never say what the three types of things are.
Why only three? Perhaps the rule you are trying to recall is ‘Something tall, something small, and something to cascade, or fall’. Do not stint. Pack the plants in, especially ones with great dramatic color and shape. 136 H HillRag | July 2012
Redefining Beauty One Client at a Time! Over 20 years of experience · ·
· I have bought some trellises for the west-facing side of our garage. I plan to plant clematis vines along that garage wall, to climb up the trellises. The only problem is that I am going to have to plant the clematis in pots. That is because a narrow slate path hugs the side of the garage. I cannot move the path, and there is no room for a proper garden bed at the foot of the wall – the path comes right up to the wall. So I have purchased some long, narrow -- but deep -- window-box-sized containers. I plan to plant the clematis in those. Will this work? Sadly, no. Clematis does need sun, that part is fine. But it also needs more protection during winter than any container, even a deep one, can provide. Clematis needs to be planted very deep, in rich, friable soil In addition, of course, besides sun, clematis famously also like “cool feet” – shaded lower parts – which you can accomplish by covering those lower parts with the leaves of another plant. Your best bet for this garage wall would be to choose an entirely different vine for your container – a lovely flowering annual vine such as sweet pea, morning glory, moonflower or nasturtium. Plant the clematis elsewhere. The next public meeting of the Capitol Hill Garden Club is September 11, 2012. Membership details at 202-543-7539. 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. H
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capitalcommunitynews.com H 137
It’s Easy to Find The July Hill Rag! It Will Be at Numerous Locations on June 30, 2012 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:
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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 generate the additional income needed to reach a goal of self-sustainability. • Establishing an independent Trust with a Board of Directors that is both community and skill based and recognizes the importance of the presence of the merchant/vendor community as members of the Board. • Retaining the concept of unified management, a goal that only became attainable following the Eastern Market fire. • Retaining and strengthening the goal of transparency by requiring reporting to the city council and making public the financial records of Eastern Market.
Why the Eastern Market Preservation and Development Act Should Be Supported
The Eastern Market Community Advisory Committee supports the Eastern Market Preservation and Development Act. This legislation seeks to take advantage of lessons learned during the past 13 years in order to provide more effective governance and provide a sound foundation for financial self-sustainability of the market. The legislation will unify the market under a sole management entity, the Eastern Market Preservation and Development Trust, with local authority and control, and will remove the District as the market manager -- a function that the city itself has stated it is not best suited for. Removing the market from city management also protects it from possible interruptions to business that would occur in the case of a government shutdown. This was a very real threat in April, 2011. In addition, it will be important to the sustainability of the Market to be able to accumulate reserves that are not subject to being put to other use by the city, which is a common occurrence. Another important component of the legislation is the creation of the Eastern Market Historic Special Use District which unifies the disparate areas that make up Eastern Market into one management entity that can both exercise clear decision making, and be easily held accountable by all parties. The original Eastern Market legislation became law 13 years ago in April of 1999. The Eastern Market Community Advisory Committee, (EMCAC) was established as part of the original legislation. EMCAC is an advisory group that represents the entire Eastern Market Community, consisting of representatives from stakeholders including community organizations, District of Columbia elected officials, vendors, merchants and professionals that do business on Capitol Hill. During the last 13 years it has become apparent to EMCAC members that effective governance and management of Eastern Market cannot be achieved under the present structure because EMCAC lacks authority and decision-making powers. Its recommendations may or may not be followed. And with the city acting as the market manager, the lines of authority and accountability are unclear. For this reason, EMCAC supports this effort to replace EMCAC 146 H HillRag | July 2012
Why do we think this will work?
with the Eastern Market Trust which will have the actual authority to govern Eastern Market and provide the business leadership and direction necessary to ensure that the market continues to thrive, grow and hopefully become financially selfsufficient. We applaud Councilmember Wells for his efforts to achieve this.
The Legislation
This legislation seeks to do three things: • Protect the historic character of Eastern Market as a primarily fresh food market with arts and crafts and flea markets on the weekend. • Improve the governance by recognizing this is a business that needs full time management oversight • Insure that the Market is on a sound financial footing so that it can reach the goal of self-sustainability and protect its revenue stream from the destabilizing uncertainties that can arise from being part of the city’s budget. The model represented in this legislation moves the market toward these goals by: • Giving the Eastern Market a separate legal and financial status while the D.C. government would retain ownership of the market and continue to be responsible for major capital improvements • Replacing an advisory body with a Board that provides managerial oversight and has the authority to demand management accountability • Creating the Eastern Market Historic Special use District which recognizes the importance of protecting the historic character of Eastern Market and its brand. This recognition is embodied in the original legislation and also allows the market to
• EMCAC has had 13 years of experience working on efforts to insure the future of Eastern market. This experience spans two different governance models, the fire and the renovation. This legislation reflects the lessons learned from that experience and puts in place a stronger governance model. • It puts management oversight in the hands of a Board that can be singularly focused on Eastern Market. The Market will no longer be one of thousands of properties contained in the huge portfolio managed by the city government . This Board includes representatives of the three major segments of the merchant and vendor community who now have seats on EMCAC. Their contributions have been invaluable to the work of providing oversight for the market and to defining strategic directions for the future. • It insures that all monies collected in connection with the operations of Eastern Market are the property of the non-profit trust which insulates the market from a variety of threats and disruption such as closure due to government shutdowns or annual revenue sweeps of city funds. This insulation is necessary for the Market to be able to build the reserves necessary for financial self-sustainability. • It retains the goal of unified management of Eastern Market which is critical to the financial sustainability of Eastern Market. This model requires that costs incurred for operations of the Market such as marketing, advertising, security, etc are met through the combined revenue received from all three component parts of the market: the six day-a-week indoor market, the farmers market and the flea and arts and crafts market that exist on Eastern Market Square on Saturday and Sunday. Currently unified management does not include the two weekend markets which operate on the Hine parking lot. While the current legislation
Donna Scheeder, Chair Donna_scheeder@comcast.net
it. In return, it commits SEB to a number of additional benefits beyond those promised the City, and to a package of additional measures and restrictions that lessen the impact of the development on its nearest neighbors. Many neighbors have derided the MOA and criticized our unwillingness to try and stop this project. For those who adamantly oppose the project, no defense of it, and consequently no MOA, will suffice. I do however want to provide insight into the reasons for my vote, and hopefully bring nuance to what has been an understandably emotional debate. Over the past month, I have received several hundred e-mails for and against the Hine development. In the face of such polarization, I listened to my conscience, voting in favor of the MOA because I believe that this development will, in the balance, benefit our neighborhood. The Hine project will undoubtedly bring impacts good and bad. As lead negotiators for the MOA, my colleague, Commissioner Ivan Frishberg, and I worked diligently to place provisions in the MOA that provide protections for the neighbors nearest to it. Restrictions include limitations on the location of various uses, such as restaurants and heavy retail; a comprehensive loading plan to smartly manage deliveries; and prohibitions on nightclubs. Lastly, contrary to the fear sown by some, over time this development will guarantee a strong future for Eastern Market. SEB has committed to including the newly created 700 block of C St in the pending Eastern Market Historic Special Use District, which will legally bind them to respect the character and mission of the Market. They have agreed to provide several thousand square feet of space in the plaza for weekend flea market operations–in perpetuity; and to fund a logistics exercise to plan for effective operations in the new space. The new plaza will not only be superior to the asphalt parking lot that currently hosts the flea markets, it will provide a stage for community activities throughout the week, and, if the community has the political will to close the 300 block of 7th Street from C St to Pennsylvania Avenue, we can actually expand the Market’s overall capacity. Regardless of the strong opinions on both sides, the process proves yet again the deep commitment of the residents of Capitol Hill. I respect this commitment and the many opinions embodied within, and will continue to seek balance as the project moves forward. Brian Pate, Commissioner, ANC6B05
Chuck Burger, Vice Chair Cburger@CBmove.com
Why I Voted to Support Hine
gives EMCAC the authority to insure that other outdoor vending in the Hine area is in keeping with the character of Eastern Market, this legislation strengthens that authority by including that area in the definition of the Special Use District. • The legislation is the result of the work of a Task Force created by Councilmember Wells and co-chaired by former Councilmember Sharon Ambrose, the mover of the original Eastern Market legislation and Peter Waldron, who has written extensively on the market for the Hill Rag. The Task Force did extensive research and its recommendations are the basis for this legislation. The extent of that research is nationwide. One of their major findings is that the markets which are thriving are those not managed by the city but by independent Boards of Directors. EMCAC has a few suggestions for further clarifications and minor improvements. Two of these have to do with the flea markets. Currently there are three weekend flea markets, the Eastern Market flea market which surrounds Eastern Market square and is operated by Eastern Market management, and two flea markets which are in the Hine parking lot/playground and which are operated for profit by two different independent operators. There is no revenue that comes to Eastern Market currently from the Hine Parking lot market companies. The flea markets are operating under three different rental rate and governance structures. The language that deals with future negotiations and that extends the rental increase cap for merchant leases to the outdoor permit fee structure threatens to destabilize existing market operations by potentially creating different classes of outdoor vendors paying different rates for essentially the same services. In addition, it limits the Market’s ability to reach the goal set by the current and proposed legislation of financial self-sustainability. Through passage of this legislation, the Council will have made significant contributions to the longterm sustainability of Eastern Market. The Eastern Market Community Advisory Committee greatly appreciates the efforts of Councilmember Wells, former Councilmember Ambrose and all of the members of the Council to move the market forward. We urge you to give this legislation your full support.
Monte Edwards, Secretary Barbara Eck, Treasure
On the ANC Hine Vote
On June 12th, ANC6B voted 6-4 in favor of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Stanton EastBanc (SEB), the developers of the Hine School project. The memorandum gives ANC6B’s support to the development and the zoning relief required to build
I voted to support the Hine School project moving forward in answer to one simple question: Did I think the end result would be a development that would benefit our community and the city? Since we began formal hearings for the Historic Preservation Review Board process and started a new subcommittee to negotiate and navigate the Zoning process, I have worked along with many others to improve the project and make it a better fit and greater benefit for the community. Heading in to Zoning Commission review
process, the ANC took the position that it supports the project based on an agreement negotiated with the developers by myself and Commissioner Brian Pate. The project has already been through a 13 month negotiation with the city and delivers many benefits as a result; $3 million of private subsidy for affordable housing, the reopening of C St, the creation of a plaza, housing, parking, retail, and increased revenue for the city. On top of this, the ANC agreement provides for an infant day care center, open space improvements adjacent to the project (the Metro Plaza and the park to the South of D Street), a reduction in height along 7th Street, public involvement in the programming of C Street and the Plaza which will be a privately operated street, community meeting space and logistical support for the weekend flea markets. In all, the ANC’s formal memorandum with the developers has 46 provisions covering the items above in addition to numerous agreements that work to mitigate some of the impacts of putting more than half a million square feet of new construction right in the middle of our community. For my part, I cannot say this is the project I would build, and certainly does not include all the changes I would have liked to secure. I am deeply sympathetic to the concerns of the neighborhood groups that I have worked with over the last few years. I am also sympathetic to the smart growth principles that have driven this project from the beginning. However, it is unfortunate that some of the advocates of this perspective frequently seem to lack either sympathy or understanding for the details of the project or the lives that surround it. In the space allowed there is no reliving the process, conflicts or resolution that brought us to this point. Yet I believe that the proposal that is now before the Zoning Commission is an improvement over where we began in the ANC review process and will ultimately benefit the community and the city. Ivan Frishberg, Commisioner, ANC 6B02
Scott Hoffman Taught Historic Arpeggios to A Generation of Hill Kids
Future historians may one day wonder why so many young guitar players sprouted from Capitol Hill in the early part of the 21st century. The reason was simple: Scott Hoffman. A beloved guitar teacher to a generation of Capitol Hill kids for nearly a decade, Scott passed away in early June at the age of 68. His death is a loss to the many who knew him, and to the St. Peter and Capitol Hill Day schools where he taught. But his skills and patience will endure in the songs of the many gifted players who learned at his side. A Harvard graduate, Scott spent his career working for a closer-knit world, most recently as head of the World Federalist Institute. Upon retirement he turned to guitar teaching, using his own quirky method to teach small beginners how to strum and pluck, all to the chords and lyrics of old—sometimes very old—American folk tunes. capitalcommunitynews.com H 147
Guitar instructor Scott Hoffman with a group of students.
An extraordinary picker in his own right, Scott pushed for perfection but endured multiple flubs with patience. He taught clusters of strummers in school, or one-on-one beside his kitchen in his little townhouse on Acker Street. His mass concerts, with him clapping rhythm before a phalanx of guitarists, are things of legend. “Scott was the best teacher I could have asked for,” said 14-year-old Eric Romero, who started his lessons in first grade and still has the pick—“rubbed raw” now, he says—that Scott gave him early on. “He was patient and kind, but more than anything he wanted to see me have this new skill, and to use it throughout my life.” It was Eric’s mom, Charlotte, who urged Scott to start teaching, at first in exchange for feeding his cat when he was out of town. Scott embodied kindness toward others. Longtime friend Debbie Metke recalls rushing to catch a train with him in Paris, “only to find that he had stopped to give money to a homeless man as the train was pulling up.” Scott’s repertoire—John Brown’s Body, Tom Dooley, Copper Kettle—hauled kids into a distant past of moonshiners and lovelorn murders. “Not only did Scott teach me plucks and arpeggios, he taught me about the Revolutionary War and civil rights,” said 16-year-old Lilly King, who took lessons with him for years. Thanks to Scott, parents will long remember their 10-year-olds in the livingroom singing, “We ain’t paid no whiskey tax since 1792.” Through Scott, says former student Sebastian Mazza, “I was the guest to a world of cowboys and mysterious girls from the North Country…I feel so privileged to have approached that frontier with Scott and can’t imagine traveling it with anyone else.” Neil King – neil.king@wsj.com 148 H HillRag | July 2012
Rest in Peace Jesse Darnell
Jesse P. Darnell lost his battle with Alzheimer’s on May 11, 2012 at 90 years old. You may not recognize the name, but if you have lived on Capitol Hill more than five years, there is a good chance you have met or seen Jesse. Jesse lived in the 600 block of East Capitol from the 1970s until 2010. He had a car, but preferred to walk around the Hill wearing his signature orange rain hat. You often heard Jesse before you saw him. He loved to whistle and would often whistle a tune on his daily morning walk around the Hill ending up at Sizzling Express at 6:30am every morning for tea, toast and his Washington Post and Washington Times. I got to know Jesse at Sizzling Express. I would stop in for breakfast weekdays before going to work. Jesse had his spot, the two tables in the little alcove to the left of the big window, and I tended to sit by the window to enjoy the morning sun. I can’t tell you the exact date we met, but I know it probably involved trying to solve the Word Jumble puzzle of the day. We became our own breakfast club with others who came and went through out the ten years. Over the years I came to learn a little about Jesse’s life. He had taught in the DC school system; loved art and was pictured at a gallery opening featured in the Washington Post; played bridge in a Capitol Hill club; had season tickets to the National Symphony and his favorite sport was tennis. Jesse also loved garage and estate sales, which is where you would find him hunting for treasures most weekend mornings after breakfast. Jesse loved current events and read both papers cover to cover. We would often talk about the latest news, and work the puzzles together. Jesse was old school; he didn’t have a computer, cell phone, cable or even a TV with a remote. He used to laugh about the fact I could pull the Word
Jumble up on my computer at work if we weren’t able to solve the puzzle at breakfast. When the digital age caught up to him, I helped him buy a new TV and we set up his first remote. I’m not sure he ever mastered the remote. About four years ago, the Alzheimer’s started quickly progressing and Jesse started skipping his morning routine. He ended up in the hospital, the courts appointed a conservator because he had outlived all of his siblings, and he was moved to a nursing home in SE. This is when I learned how many people cared about Jesse. As I was doing some detective work to locate Jesse, people would stop me in Sizzling Express or other places and ask how he was. I met many of his friends and learned more about Jesse’s life. When we did locate him, a couple of us went to visit him on his birthday and took a card signed by everyone. He recognized our faces, but couldn’t place us. You could tell it was frustrating for him and very sad for us to see our friend like that. Jesse hasn’t been to breakfast at Sizzling Express for about three years and yet people still ask about him. I called his nursing home today to see about going up for a visit. This is when I got the sad news about his passing. I like to think of Jesse up in heaven playing bridge and whistling a happy tune. Rest in peace my friend. You have earned it. Dane P. Scott – diane@dianepscott.com
Remembering Bob Tolar
Robert Lee Tolar, 71, died at home June 18 2012 after a long illness with a form of nonHodgkin’s cutaneous T cell lymphoma. Born in Washington DC, Bob grew up in Fairfax County, attended Franconia Elementary and the, then new, Annandale High School. After obtaining a BA degree in Fine Arts from the College of William and Mary, he was drafted and served two years in the US Army before returning to DC. Bob worked as a commercial artist in the catalogue departments of many of the leading Washington area department and home furnishing stores. Later, as a free-lance artist, he completed projects for interior design agencies which included several trips to the Middle East where he painted murals for private homes. Bob’s legacy includes beautiful artwork much admired and treasured by clients, family and friends. He is survived by his twin sister SARA
C. TOLAR of Winter Springs, FL. Following cremation, interment will be at National Memorial Park, Falls Church, VA (date and time to be determined). If desired, remembrance donations may be made to the National Leukemia and Lymphoma Society; Capitol Caring, Washington, DC (both have online donation pages); or the charity of your choice.
Financial Literacy for a Prosperous Future
As a teenager, I have handled money on numerous occasions but have no financial knowledge. I cannot even begin to count, at age 16, how many times I have spent, received, and lost money. I even possess my own debit card (via my father’s account) yet until yesterday did not know the difference between a checking and savings account. I know that I am not alone and other students my age and younger are not educated on money’s constant flow in society. We all dream of making millions during our professional careers but do not stop to think about loans, debt, and taxes. In order to mode model informed citizens, financial literacy must be taught and implemented on the local school level. There is evidence that proves how uninformed we as Washingtonians are. According to the Washington Post, 12 percent of households in Washington DC do not use banks while 24 percent of households are underbanked. To be underbanked is when one may have a checking account, but not a savings account. The important fact is that both accounts are vital to save, protect, and manage your money properly. This is a public problem that is caused by not being educated and the effects are deleterious because in the end, money is lost. For example, some time ago, I was given a $50 gift card in order to pay for lunch during my internship. At Target, I attempted to use this card only to find a zero balance. I was confused and spoke with SunTrust Customer Service to find the cards had been pur-
chased years ago with the balance being attacked by fees. Pre-paid debit cards have a host of fees that add up: enrollment, monthly service, reload fees, as well as ATM fees. In contrast, at a credit union, a non-profit financial institution, your debit card attached to your checking account has no fees attached. It is not pre-paid. Now the question becomes: Why pay more for less? Now that I have been informed about prepaid debit cards, I can actively make a decision on what I want to do with my money. My experience with a prepaid debit card is even more evidence and ammunition for why students in Washington, DC must be taught! HayeGirl Inc., a tax-exempt non-profit organization located in the Hill Center in Washington, DC. It was created to reach and teach financial planning, small business development, and self-determination to marginalized members of the community. HayeGirl Inc. advises, advocates, and services individuals through various forms of financial planning to empower them to reach their financial goals. Just spending this short time at HayeGirl Inc. I have learned just how crucial it is to empower yourself through the purchases and other financial transactions you make. When I turn 18, I plan on utilizing what I have learned so far during my Fellowship and open my very own Bank on DC checking-savings account. Bank on DC is a collaborative effort between DC government and financial institutions to offer services to the un/underbanked households in the DC area. Households are able to save money on fees while saving and preparing for the future. Everyone is welcome because Bank on DC’s main goal is to protect, manage, and save your money. There is no stress when opening an account because it requires a very low starting balance. Khadija Jones Ms. Khadija Jones was a 2012 Fellow with HayeGirl, Inc. located in the Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital in Capitol Hill. H capitalcommunitynews.com H 149
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he Nose, Dear Readers, has had the distinct pleasure of your intimate acquaintance for several years now. However, nothing in this extended dalliance, even the 2010 dethronement of King Blackberry, rivals the Machiavellian imbroglio of the past two months. From the ingenious incompetencies of the 2010 Gray campaign (the term which led to the coining of ‘Sulaimania’), to the mundane mechanics of mortgage fraud, the District’s politicians have plumbed the depths of depravity to dally with their doom. Struck by the ubiquitous, unique unseemliness of the District’s lawmakers, ‘ex-felon’ will be established as a synonym for ‘ex-councilmember’ in the American Lexicon. Yes, despite an absence of home rule, the District has managed to join the ranks of famously fraudulent states. Rhode Island, Nevada and Michigan! You can’t touch us! Meanwhile, our fair Gotham continues to await the fate of its erstwhile Mayor (aka The Undertaker). Forced by an intrepid fellow scribbler to deny imminent resignation, a claim rendered hollow by antics of a colleague’s recent public reversal of fortune, The Undertaker chose to fly off to China. Undoubtedly the task of pitching street cars to eastern investors in the baleful hope of repatriating a few pennies of the enormous wealth siphoned off by America’s large oriental trade imbalance is vastly preferable to fleeing down the corridors of the Wilson Building pursued by slavering reporters who are not even respectful of a quickly slammed door. Yes, Dear Readers, We’re not in The District anymore. Rather, The Nose believes that the entire Wilson Building has been physically uprooted and transported into an alternate reality that more closely approximates Oz sans Toto. How else does one explain ex-prisoner Marion Barry calling out a colleague on the subject of tax liens and a misdemeanor conviction? Perhaps, they both share the same accountants or have retained the firm of Cooke, Wilmot & Bolden? Could the District’s ongoing legislative bur150 H HillRag | July 2012
by Anonymous lesque become even more gelastic? Join The Nose, Dear Readers, in putting on your Imagination Caps. A long time ago in a galaxy not so far, far away... Just imagine a completely crushed Fully Loaded Navigator lying on the street in front of the steps of the Wilson Building, two sartorially trousered appendages extending beneath the heavily dented frame. Councilmember Tommy ‘Goody-Two-Shoes’ Wells and The Nose stand surveying the wreck. “Well, I’m a little muddled. The Reporters tweeted me because a certain columnist had just dropped a fully Loaded Navigator on Pennsylvania Avenue on our Chair. And there’s the car, and here you are, and that’s all that’s left of the Chair himself,” Goody-2-Shoes observes. The Nose appears a bit perplexed. “And so what the Reporters want to know,” Wells says looking deep in The Nose eyes, “is, are you a good pol, or a bad pol?” “Oh, but I’ve already told you, I’m not a politician at all -- lawmakers are well-dressed, corrupt, tax cheats,” The Nose observes demurely. “What was that?” Wells looks around and guffaws. “I am laughing because I am a politician. I’m Tommy, The Saint of Ward 6.” The Nose looks to the right and left, and then curtseys gracefully. “You are? I beg your pardon, but I’ve never heard of an honest pol, much less one possessed of a halo.” “Only bad politicians take bribes and park such elaborate rides in front of the Wilson Building,” observes Wells. “I myself peddle to work on a lowly two-wheeled bicycle.” A gaggle of Reporters swarms the two from either side of the Wilson Building. “The Reporters are happy because you have decisively ended the rumors about the Chairman,” wryly states St. Tommy. “Oh. But, if you please -- what are Reporters,” queries The Nose? “The little people who live in the Wilson Building and you are now their national hero, my dear. It’s all right -- you may all come out and thank him. It’s all right now - you may all come out.”
St. Wells breaks out his iPhone and begins tweeting furiously, Come out, come out wherever you are. And meet the grizzled columnist who fell from a star. He fell from the sky, He fell very far. And Columbia he says is the name of the star. He brings you good news. Or haven’t you heard? When he fell out of Columbia, a miracle occurred. The Reporters singing in reply: We thank you very sweetly For doing it so neatly. You’ve eviscerated The Chair so completely St. Wells, typing madly: Let the joyous news be spread The convicted Chair at last is dead! Reporters serenading: Ding Dong! The Chair is dead. Which old Politician? The one killed by his own ambition! Ding Dong! The cheating Chair is dead. Wake up, you sleepy head. Rub your eyes Forget your meds. Wake up, the .chastened Chair is dead. He’s gone where felons go To Club Fed near Mexico Yo -- ho, let’s open up and sing And break out the whiskey. Ding Dong! The merry-oh! Sing it high Sing it low The convicted Chair is dead. Remember, Dear Readers, there is still one more Navigator remaining in the city’s fleet. H