Hill Rag Magazine – April 2026

HISTORIC KENSINGTON HOME JUST

10400 Montgomery Avenue, Kensington, MD –

$2,995,000

Grand Victorian includes 3 lots, combining historic charm with modern conveniences. Featuring 6,000+ interior sq. ft., on almost an acre, with 1,200 sq. ft. of wrap-around porches, this one has it all!

Large addition was seamlessly integrated by award-winning architect George Myers, providing a generous family room and beautiful primary suite. This is a grand home, combining original Victorian architectural details with the functionality of modern homes. From the street, beautifully maintained facade and grounds set the tone.

Sitting on three generous lots (one of which is buildable), the property offers a rare sense of space in this coveted neighborhood, just a stone’s throw away from the weekend farmer’s market, shops and restaurants, and Kensington MARC Station. You get to Union Station in under 20 minutes! Ample parking and outdoor areas provide enough space for an existing sport court and potentially a swimming pool or ADU.

Period craftsmanship shines through. High ceilings, rich woodwork, and generous windows provide a light-filled and architecturally distinctive interior environment. Perfect for entertaining. The spacious living and dining rooms retain their original elegance, while the expanded kitchen, primary suite and family areas offer functionality and style. Well-proportioned bedrooms and cozy nooks reflect the home’s personality and warmth.

The finished attic and basement allow for entertaining, working from home, and multi-generational living. Yet the home maintains its historic integrity. With its rare blend of original character, modern comforts, generous lot size, and unparalleled convenience, this Victorian gem is one-of-a-kind!

$3,195,000 - Crestwood 4801 Blagden Ave., NW

$1,850,000 - Mt. Pleasant 1820 Lamont St. NW

$2,300,000 - Chevy Chase 5430 Chevy Chase Pkwy NW

$774,000 - Georgetown 2527 Q Street, NW Unit 202

$1,798,500 - Mt. Pleasant 1818 Lamont St. NW

$1,350,000 - Georgetown 1610 33rd St. NW

$1,383,000 - Capitol Hill 506 10th Street SE

$1,750,000 - Georgetown 2719 Dumbarton St., NW

ABOVE ASKING

$425,000 - Ballston 900 N Stafford St., #1909

• Ranked in the top 1.5% of all agents nationwide by the national firm, RealTrends (June 2025)

• Proven track record, with nearly $500 million in career sales

• 24 years of experience; Licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia

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Next Issue: May 3

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We welcome suggestions for stories. Send queries to andrew@hillrag.com. We are also interested in your views on community issues which are published in the Last Word. Please limit your comments to 250 words. Letters may be edited for space. Please include your name, address and phone number. Send Last Word submissions to lastword@hillrag.com. For employment opportunities email jobs@hillrag.com.

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON Spring Special ON THE TOWN

Sky Hopinka (Ho-Chunk Nation/Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians). Free me from this body, my voice can carry only so far. Free me from this body, as I lay on the grass it feels heavy and I can’t move. Free me from this body, the color burns brown with dark limbs so tired and missing the weightless breadth of above., 2020 inkjet print with hand-etched text. National Gallery of Art.

Sky Hopinka: Kicking the Clouds at the NGA

From April 11 to Dec. 6, explore the powerful ties between language and landscape in works by Sky Hopinka (Ho-Chunk Nation/Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians). A photographer, filmmaker, and poet, Hopinka creates multimedia art to reflect on personal memories and shared Native histories. The exhibition, West Building Ground Floor, Gallery 21, takes its title from Kicking the Clouds (2021), a 15-minute film inspired by a rare audio recording of the artist’s grandmother. Photographs etched with Hopinka’s own poems are also featured alongside a calligram, words arranged to form a symbolic image. Together, these works show how Hopinka layers language—visual, written, and spoken—to present a nuanced understanding of place and the contemporary Indigenous experience. nga.gov.

An Asian American Dance Journey at Woolly Mammoth

In honor of Asian American Heritage Month, Dana Tai Soon Burgess Dance Company (DTSBDC) returns to Woolly Mammoth with their signature grace in storytelling. Exploring the inner emotional terrain of humanity, the world-renowned Company presents beloved pieces from their 33-year history repertoire with a special emphasis on the Asian American experience. The Company will perform the world premiere of “Drawing in Space,” a dance homage to Ruth Asawa. Woolly Mammoth, 641 D St. NW, from April 24 to May 3. Tickets are $55. woollymammoth.net.

Smithsonian Craft Show

The Smithsonian Craft Show is the country’s premier showcase for the finest in hand-crafted, American artisanal works. Each year, a new trio of experts is selected by the Show chairs to review hundreds of applications and select the year’s featured exhibitors representing all facets of contemporary craft and design, including basketry, ceramics, decorative fiber, furniture, glass, jewelry, leather, metal, mixed media, paper, wearable art, and wood. The 2026 show is on April 23 to 25, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and April 26, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the National Building Museum, 401 F St. NW. Admission is $25; $20 for groups of ten or more and students. A multiday ticket is $40. smithsoniancraftshow.org.

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON Spring Special

Living Earth Festival at the National Museum of the American Indian

On Saturday, April 25 and Sunday, April 26, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., celebrate the transformational power of clay and the evolution of the museum’s iconic outdoor sculpture installation, Always Becoming, by Nora Naranjo-Morse (Santa Clara Pueblo). Join the museum for a weekend of stories, artist demonstrations, hands-on activities, performances and more centered on the relationship between art and the earth. The National Museum of the American Indian is at Fourth Street and Independence Avenue SW. americanindian.si.edu.

Jordan Klepper: Suffering Fools at the Warner

Jordan Klepper began his career as a member of The Second City and Upright Citizens Brigade. From 2014 to 2017, he was a correspondent on The Daily Show. He started his own satirical program, The Opposition with Jordan Klepper, which was canceled in 2018. He then starred in the 2019 docuseries Klepper, before returning to The Daily Show later that year as a contributor, and eventually a rotating host. He often appears on a segment entitled “Jordan Klepper Fingers the Pulse.” Jordan Klepper is at the Warner Theatre, 513 13th St. NW, on Friday, May 8, 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $53. warnertheatredc.com.

DC’s Emancipation Day Celebration

DC’s Emancipation Day Celebration is on April 19. The free day-long celebration at Franklin Park, between 13th and 14th and I and K Streets NW in Downtown DC, features a parade, festival, and concert. The day begins with the Emancipation Day Parade, stepping off at 14th Street NW at 1:30 p.m. and ending at Franklin Park. A free concert at Franklin Park follows from 2:30 to 8:30 p.m. The program at Franklin Park features live music, local artists, and a strong Go-Go presence in honor of the genre’s 50th anniversary, including performances by Backyard Band and Back Alley, along with major national recording artists. Emancipation Day commemorates the signing of the DC Compensated Emancipation Act of 1862 by President Abraham Lincoln, which ended slavery in the District of Columbia, freeing more than 3,100 enslaved people and making DC the first place in the nation where emancipation became law, nearly nine months before the Emancipation Proclamation. It is this landmark legislation, and the courage and perseverance of those who fought to make it a reality, that DC honors every April 16. emancipation.dc.gov.

UNBANNED Film and Discussion at Miracle Theatre

On Sunday, April 19, 2:30 to 5:30 p.m., join Miracle Theatre, 535 Eighth St. SE, as they celebrate National Library Week and Indie Filmmaking. UNBANNED is a three-part public experience: a live forum, an expert panel, and a screening of the 3x award-winning documentary Banned Together, focusing on book bans and curriculum censorship in American public schools. The public forum and expert panel is moderated by Katea Stitt, Program Director at WPFW 89.3 FM. Featured panelists are Banned Together filmmakers/producers, representatives from National Education Association Read Across America, and PEN America, along with local partners including Mid-Atlantic Arts, WPFW 89.3 FM, We Act Radio, and Cozy Black Girl Book Club. The conversation will explore how book bans affect students, teachers, and communities, and what it means in this moment. Admission is $9.85 or pay-what-you can. themiracletheatre.com.

Behind the Science Natural History Museum’s Monthly Lectures

Each month, join the National Museum of Natural History for the new series, Behind the Science, where NMNH researchers share insights into their latest discoveries and explore the fascinating questions driving their work—from the origins of life to the future of our planet. Come learn what’s happening behind the scenes and how science shapes our understanding of the natural world. Programs take place in Q?rius, the Coralyn W. Whitney Science Education Center. Topics and speakers are announced on a rolling basis but save the dates now. They are: April 14, May 11, June 9, July 14, Aug. 11, Sept. 15, Oct. 13, Nov. 10, Dec. 8. Lectures are from 6:30 to 8:15 p.m. Free but registration is required. naturalhistory.si.edu.

Henry the African Elephant, Smithsonian Natural History Museum

Faction of Fools’ “Much Ado About Nothing”

Faction of Fools’ “Much Ado About Nothing“ is at the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop, 545 Seventh St. SE, from April 9 to May 2. Set in Messina, the play revolves around two romantic pairings that emerge when a group of soldiers arrive in the town. The first, between Claudio and Hero, is nearly broken by the accusations of the villain, Don John. The second between Claudio’s friend Benedick and Hero’s cousin Beatrice takes center stage as the play continues, with both characters’ wit and banter providing much of the humor. This production is family-friendly but contains some PG-13 humor. Admission is $27; “pay it forward” price, $37; child price and “times are tight” price, $17. factionoffools.org.

“The Book of Mormon” at the National

This outrageous musical comedy follows the adventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent halfway across the world to spread the Good Word. “The Book of Mormon” is at the National Theater, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, from April 28 to May 3. Ticket price range is $69 to $209. broadwayatthenational.com.

Beyond Earth: A Celestial Odyssey & Cosmic Cycles at Strathmore

On Sunday, May 10, 3 p.m., in partnership with NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Capital Classical Concerts and conductor Piotr Gajewski present the world premiere of Henry Dehlinger’s Beyond Earth: A Celestial Odyssey, a celebration of space exploration and a meditation on the human spirit that drives it. This cinematic-symphonic work traces humanity’s journey beyond our home planet, from the daring first steps on the Moon to the edges of our interplanetary aspirations. The program also includes selections from Dehlinger’s celebrated 2023 collaboration with NASA—Cosmic Cycles: A Space Symphony. Tickets are $10 to $90. Strathmore is at 5301 Tuckerman Ln., No. Bethesda, MD. strathmore.org.

Sandbox Percussion & Kristin Lee at Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center

On Monday, April 13, 7:30 p.m., experience a bold new fusion of percussion and violin as Kristin Lee and Sandbox Percussion perform the DMV premiere of a new work by Vivian Fung, co-commissioned by Constellations at the Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center, 51 Mannakee St., Rockville, MD. The collaboration highlights innovative sound textures and dynamic interplay between violin and percussion. Expect bold instrumentation, theatrical spatial design, and sonic exploration that pushes the boundaries of chamber music. General admission is $25; $10 for students with ID. constellationsmusic.org/ event-details/sandbox-kristin-lee.

Uncorked: DC at Nat’s Park

“Hexagov 2026: Lollapalosers” at the Atlas

Washington’s Only Original Political Satirical Musical

Comedy Revue returns for its 70th year with more original songs and skits with its usual serving of political zing. They spare no side but aim at both with wit and originality. Join them for a night (or afternoon) guffawing at political slime.

“Hexagov 2026: Lollapalosers” is at the Atlas, 1333 H St. NE, from April 17 to 26. Tickets are $44.75. atlasarts.org.

On Saturday, April 25, 7 to 10 p.m. (rain or shine), at Nat’s Park, sip and swirl over 100 wines, bubblies and cocktails from around the globe, feast on local food truck flavors, and dance the night away overlooking the iconic Nationals Park field. General admission is $75; early admission, $90; and VIP admission, $110. All guests must be at least 21 to attend. mlb.com/nationals/tickets/events/uncorked.

“The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” at the DC Arts Center

Tortured by his bland and conservative life, Dr. Henry Jekyll concocts a mixture that can transform his physical being, unleash his suppressed yearnings for depravity and evil, and return to his old self whenever he wishes. But when an unknown protégée is named as the beneficiary of his will, inheriting his entire estate in case of his “death or disappearance,” his oldest friend suspects nefarious intentions and determines to uncover the identity of one Mr. Edward Hyde. DC Arts Center, 2438 18th St. NW, through April 26. Tickets are $39.19. dcartscenter.org.

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

A Salute to Women Veterans, featuring Patti LaBelle

The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) has announced a landmark event in honor of our nation’s 250th anniversary: DAR Celebrates America 250! A Salute to Women Veterans, featuring legendary artist Patti LaBelle. The concert takes place on April 18, at 7 p.m. at DAR Constitution Hall, 1776 D St. NW. As part of DAR’s ongoing commitment to patriotism and service, this special evening honors America’s military women by paying tribute to their courage, sacrifice, and contributions to the nation’s defense over the last 250 years. Proceeds from the concert support DAR’s grant program for organizations serving homeless and indigent women veterans. Tickets start at $115. dar.org/events/constitution-hall.

Anacostia Murals Festival

This spring, east-of-the-river communities become a vibrant outdoor gallery as the Capital Hill Boys Club Arts Foundation presents the Anacostia Murals Festival, May 1 to 18, bringing together more than 100 artists to create over 100 murals in just 18 days. The festival will activate walls and public spaces throughout Anacostia, Pennsylvania Avenue East, Minnesota Avenue, and Deanwood, turning the neighborhood into America’s newest open-air art museum with murals that celebrate the history, culture, and community identity of neighborhoods east of the Anacostia River. The opening ceremony is on May 1, at 1 p.m., at 1603 Marion Barry Ave. SE. dhbcart.org.

Chiarina Chamber Players’ “Dreams and Dialogues”

On Sunday, May 3, 2 p.m., hailed for his natural musical grace, celebrated clarinetist Ricardo Morales returns to the Chiarina stage in a duo program with pianist Efi Hackmey. This bold spectrum of works features Francis Poulenc’s whimsical sonata, a piece written for Morales by Jacob Bancks, Paquito D’Rivera’s playful Three Pieces for clarinet and piano, and Brahms’s transcendent sonata in E-flat. “Dreams and Dialogues” is at St. Mark’s, 301 A St. SE. General admission tickets are $33.85; ages 18 and under, free. chiarina.org.

“Aguardiente: Magic Transcends Borders” at GALA

In this exciting new musical two immigrant writers from Colombia and Puerto Rico, who are living in New York City, journey back to their childhoods to reconnect with the rich Caribbean culture. The play draws inspiration from traditional Caribbean rhythms, cumbia, bomba, currulao and the magical realism of Gabriel García Marquez. “Aguardiente: Magic Transcends Borders” is at GALA Theatre, 3333 14th St. NW, from April 30 to May 24. Tickets are $26 to $62. galatheatre.org.

Courtney Marie Andrews: The Valentine Tour at the Atlantis

Love, it turns out, “is a lot more than I gave it credit for,” Andrews explains. “It’s built over years, it’s built with trust, with changes, it becomes something new and unrecognizable, the deeper you go.” Written at the junction of intense endings and beginnings in her life, Valentine demands more of those we love and reveals a stronger, wiser, and more clear-eyed Courtney Marie Andrews in the process. In love and on Valentine, there is no quarter for empty gestures. Atlantis, 2047 Ninth St. NW, on Friday, April 24, at 7:30 p.m. General admission is $32.50. theatlantis.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 1

WARS: A NEW HOPE SCREENING

SATURDAY, MAY 2

TIME: 7:30 PM

EXPERIENCE THE SAGA AGAIN ON THE BIG SCREEN

General Admission $8 (plus fees)

MIRACLE THEATER I 535 8th St SE

SUNDAY, MAY 3 5:00–7:30 PM

AS YOU ARE BAR - I 500 8th Street SE

Sports.”

Fully themed Star Wars setting, Tastings of premium and rare bourbons, Kentucky Derby-inspired bites, Themed attire encouraged – Live viewing of the “Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports.”

Tickets: (www.eventbrite.com/e/the-galactic-derby-star-warsmeets-the-kentucky-derby-tickets-1984812641039?aff=oddtdtcreator)

General Admission $29 per person, excluding taxes and fees

STAR WARS ART & ENTERTAINMENT

• Frame of Mine - 11:00 am to 5:00 pm

• All Day fun at Ted's Bulletin, Lola's Star Wars POP UP Bar

STAR WARS FOOD & DRINK &Pizza • Compliments Only • Matchbox • Taco City DC Ted's Bulletin • Belga Cafe • Lola's

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON Spring Special

The Folger Consort’s “An English Garden”

From Friday, May 8 to Sunday, May 10, Folger Consort presents a program of Elizabethan songs and instrumental music interspersed with short readings of poems and gardening advice from contemporary authors. The Folger, 201 E. Capitol St. SE, welcomes back audience favorite soprano Emily Noël and an ensemble of viols and lute for this springtime program, curated by Mary Springfels. Performances are on May 8 and 9, 8 p.m.; and May 9 and 10, 2 p.m. Tickets are $20 to $50. folger.edu.

NSO’s Mozart’s “Jupiter” & Bach’s Brandenburg No. 1 at the KC Thunder and lightning alongside the smiling, radiant face of a father: it’s Jupiter, the king of all gods. Experience the heavenly drama of Mozart’s Symphony No. 41, “Jupiter,” in the hands of Gianandrea Noseda, who opens the concert with Bach’s large-scale Brandenburg Concerto No. 1 and Jacques Loussier’s jazz-infused, neo-Bach Concerto for Violin and Tabla. Mozart’s “Jupiter” & Bach’s Brandenburg No. 1 is in the Kennedy Center Concert Hall, April 15 and 16 at 7 p.m. and April 17 at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $21. Kennedy-center.org.

Symmetries

& Broken Symmetries at NAS

Through July 3, this exhibition at the National Academy of Sciences, 2100 C St. NW, brings together the work of artist Shanthi Chandrasekar and physicist-writer Michael Albrow in a shared exploration of how order and chaos in the universe are reflected across art, science, and human understanding. Through parallel and complementary practices, writing, drawing, and painting are placed in dialogue, offering multiple ways of perceiving the cosmos. The exhibition features 18 drawings and paintings by Chandrasekar, created between 2010 and 2025, paired with selected writings by Albrow. This exhibition is only viewable during NAS Building tours and select special events. cpnas. org/event/symmetries.

Riot! DC Music Festival at The Garage

Riot! DC Music Festival + Riot Grrrl Community Event is a full day of music, crafts and vendors in observance of Sexual Assault Awareness Month on Sunday, April 26, noon to 9 p.m., at The Garage, 16915 Darnestown Rd., Boyds. MD. Tickets are $10 on a sliding scale to ensure accessibility, but all donations are greatly appreciated and a portion will be donated to the Sexual Violence Prevention Association (SVPA). As a survivor-led festival, their goal is to create a space of community for all survivors to heal, and scream to a full femme lineup of diverse artists and genres. Wear denim to support the message of Riot! DC and join them in their activism to eradicate rape culture. s-v-p-a.org.

George Bernard Shaw’s “Caesar & Cleopatra” at Washington Stage Guild

Under an Egyptian moon, the aging Julius Caesar meets teenage Cleopatra by chance one night. With turmoil afoot as Cleopatra and her younger brother vie for the throne, Caesar helps the young queen grow into a great ruler favoring wisdom, honor, and clemency. With the palace under siege by insurgents, Caesar might not be able to keep the country together or even escape alive–let alone manage the headstrong Cleopatra. Caesar & Cleopatra runs from April 9 to May 3 with performances Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2:30 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $60 but there are student and senior discounts. All performances are at The Undercroft Theatre, 900 Massachusetts Ave, NW. stageguild.org.

“A Good Day to Me Not to You” at Arena Drama Desk Award-winning actor Lameece Issaq teams up with two-time Obie-winning director Lee Sunday Evans on her wildly candid new play, which centers on the chaotic life of a 40-something dental lab tech who gets fired and moves into a woman’s rooming house run by nuns. While there, she must come to terms with her unfulfilled path to motherhood and the untimely death of her younger sister, all while fending off her unpredictable and sometimes deranged cohabitants. “A Good Day to Me Not to You” is a deeply human and comedic one-woman show that opts for allout vulnerability, dissecting the psyche as if the stage were an operating table. Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SW, through May 3. Tickets start at $75. arenastage.org.

Capitol Cuisine

by Celeste McCall

After enduring the harshest winter in recent memory, Capitol Hill is eagerly welcoming spring. Like the blossoming cherry trees gracing Capitol Hill parks, new restaurants are blooming. Folks were queued along the “Avenue” and around the corner at last month’s “soft” unveiling of Bumblebirds, 303 Pennsylvania Ave, SE (former Good Stu Eatery). Showcasing celebrity chef/cookbook author Carla Hall, the feathered

newbie is in partnership with the Mendelsohn family’s Sunnyside Restaurant Group, which operates several area eateries including We the Pizza (next door) and Santa Rosa Taqueria on the corner. For the soft opening, Bumblebirds’ fried chicken sandwiches and nuggets were on the house. We tracked down Hall, chatting with people in the long line that wrapped around the block. A

Washington resident and former runway model, she sparkled in chic denim. We had noted that Bumblebirds was billed as a six-month popup. “A pop in,” Hall responded. “We’ll see after six months and go from there.”

A Nashville native, Carla brings her southern roots to Bumblebirds’ downhome menu. The colorful dining area is appointed with Hall’s paper “yo yo” quilts, a homage to her late grandmother. On opening day, we sampled the crunchy fried chicken tucked into a buttery brioche bun piled with house-made coleslaw, plus crispy nuggets. Both were accompanied by addictive kettle chips.

Among other comfort options are smothered biscuits, sweet potato fries, a pimento cheese bar and yummy desserts including Duck Camp donuts, Meyer lemon bars, blueberry shortcake. Plus cocktails like elder ower julep, margaritas and Peachtree tea. The latter is concocted from iced tea, vodka and Peachtree liqueur. Bumblebirds is open daily; for hours and more information visit www.bumblebirdsdc.com.

More chicken

Speaking of things fair and fowl, owner/chef Rob Sonderman’s Little Engine has rolled into 250 Seventh St. SE, the corner of Seventh and C streets. Peter and I checked it out for lunch, joined by friend Nan. On a Friday afternoon, the place was slammed—no available seating, so we did carryout. We ordered a whole chicken. The bird is normally cut up, but the kitchen left one whole for us. For sides we chomped on crunchy (and spicy!) peanut slaw and hushpuppies. Nan chose the Southwest salad—laced with black-eyed peas, herbs and hushpuppy croutons, topped with crispy mushrooms. Back home, we carved the bird, which seemed slightly underdone in places. But the crisp skin was deliciously seasoned. Star of our meal was the corn and scallion hushpuppies, crunchy, moist inside, not too sweet. We’ve also sampled the quesadillas—pulled chicken with wonderfully gooey melt-

ed cheese, salsa, onions and jalapenos, all tucked in a our tortilla. You can also nd dry-brined wings with assorted sauces, “blistered” snap peas, wedge fries and salads. Little Engine is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information visit www.littleenginechicken.com.

Fishy Asian

The Eastern Market neighborhood welcomes the highly touted Maru San, 325 Seventh St. SE. The stunning newcomer showcases Nikkei cuisine—a graceful melding of Japanese and Peruvian cooking, which harks back to Peru’s in ux of Japanese immigrants who brought their cuisine with them. At the 25-seat counter (no sit-down tables), awardwinning chef Carlos Delgado presents “The Experience,” an opulent, 15-course $115 per person tasting menu. No worries, you will nd moderately priced, ala carte handrolls lled with spicy tuna, Old Bay crab, octopus, shrimp huacatay (Peruvian black mint), lobster, wagyu. Most hand roll tabs hover in the $7 to $13 range. “Premium” handrolls are pricier.

Complementing the food are exotic cocktails, beer, wines, sake. For now, Maru San is open for dinner only, with midday service to come. Except for the “Experience” tasting menu, Maru San accepts no reservations; walk ins only. Warning: Get

there early. For hours and more information visit www.marusandc.com.

New from Navy Yard

Near Nationals Park, as the Washington Nats launch their 2026 season, at least two restaurants have opened: Canton Disco arrived recently at 1015 First St. SE. Heading the kitchen of this cozy, 40-seat “modern Cantonese” hotspot is Timothy Yu. If that name sounds familiar, chef Yu helped open Chiko, the popular Chinese-Korean hybrid with several area locations, including one on Barracks Row.

Among Yu’s specialties: orange chicken with crispy garlic; honey walnut shrimp with yuzu lemon aioli and candied walnuts; steamed ginger/scallion cod; roasted Cornish hen, crispy duck (serving two or three), saltand-pepper tofu, mushroom potstickers.

The drink list pours wines from Argentina, Germany Spain, Portugal, France. Plus umpteen kinds of beer and cocktails. For now, Canton Disco is open only for dinner, but midday service is planned. For updates visit www.cantondiscodc.com.

Nearby, across from Nationals Park at 1201 Half St. SE, Scolapasta arrived last month. A spinoff of North Virginia’s popular pasta spot, the newcomer is backed by former NFL (and University of Maryland) star player Vernon Davis. Here’s the deal: select your pasta shape: spaghetti, rigatoni, tagliatelle, radiator (shaped like radiators), and choose a topping: Bolognese, pesto, cacio e pepe, white truffle, etc. Then, crown your creation with meatballs, chicken, burrata. You

get the idea. The menu also offers chef’s favorites like shrimp scampi and the classic: spaghetti, meatballs, pomodoro sauce. For hours and more information visit www.scolapasta.us.

RAMMY Nominees

Congrats and good luck to the 2026 RAMMY Awards nominees. The annual competition is sponsored by the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington. Following is a partial list. Winners in each category will be announced at the 44th Annual Awards & Gala June 29 at the Arena Stage and Mead Center, 1101 Sixth St. SW. The envelope, please.

New Restaurant of the Year: Tapori (H St. NE); Chef of the Year: Matt Adler (Caruso’s Grocery, The Roost) and Matt Conway and Isabel Coss (Pascual); Rising Culinary Star: Ria Montes (Fish Shop, District Wharf); Restaurateur of the Year: Daniella Senior (Colada Shop, District Wharf); Best Brunch: Ambar, I Egg You, both on Barracks Row; Fast/Casual: Call your Mother (Barracks Row), Colada Shop; Best Bar: Salt Line (Navy Yard); Whitlow’s (District Wharf).

For a complete list and more information visit www.ramw.org. u

Theater Night

A Curated Preview of Theater in the DMV

by Matthew McClure

Emancipation Day falls on April 16, and perhaps more than ever before we’re collectively contemplating what freedom really means. This month’s column looks to theater that wrestles with liberation, whether it’s Tennessee Williams’s Blanche Dubois struggling to free herself from debilitating guilt, a young Civil Rights activist dedicating his life to the fight for freedom or simply freeing oneself from reality for a few blissful minutes amidst the affluence of a Sicilian luxury resort.

In the Spotlight

“Young John Lewis: Prodigy of Protest” Mosaic Theater Company

Showing March 26 – May 4 mosaictheater.org

From one of DC’s hottest playwrights and Mosaic Theater Company’s artist in residence

comes a new work uncannily appropriate for our current moment. Psalmayene 24’s “Young John Lewis: Prodigy of Protest” is a musical play set to a hip-hop soundtrack about the early life of John Lewis, and it turns out that the late Civil Rights icon, congressman and activist still has something important to tell us more than five years after his death.

Originally commissioned by Matt Torney of Atlanta’s Theatrical Outfit, the musical is directed for Mosaic Theater Company by Reginald Douglas with a soundtrack by Grammy-nominated Kokayi. It stars Michael Bahsil-Cook as John Lewis, Christian Emmanuel as Emmett Till, Jordan Essex as Bayard Rustin, Vaughn Midder as Medgar Evers and Nia Savoy-Dock as Diane Nash. “As I did the research, I found out that this was the period in John’s life where he became the myth that we know now,” Psalm says, explaining why he decided to focus on Lewis’s formative years from age 18 to 28. “These were the events that chiseled him into the monument that we revere today.” Hailing from a family of Alabama sharecroppers, Lewis is a towering figure in the Civil Rights movement. Name an event that changed the course of the movement, and the chances are that Lewis was present. The freedom rides down to the South to challenge Federal enforcement of non-segregated public buses? Lewis was there. The March on Washington in 1963? Lewis was the youngest of the socalled “Big Six” that organized the march and he locked step with the Reverend Dr Martin Luther-King Jr and Bayard Rustin. The Selma to Montgomery marches in 1965? Yes, Lewis was there.

Lewis’s emphasis on peaceful protest and using the body as a tool for social change has become a guiding light for subsequent movements. Psalm’s musical draws an intriguing parallel between the youthful energy of young

Civil Rights activists and the upbeat tones and rhythms of early 1970s Hip-hop. “We didn’t quite know if it would be a musical or a play with music,” says Psalm. “But we made the decision that music would feature prominently in the piece because music was woven into the fabric of the struggle.” Hip-hop, as Psalm reminds us, “…had the seeds of resistance, revolt and social change. Hip-hop came from rebelling against social conditions.”

“Young John Lewis: Prodigy of Protest” asks us to consider what it means to put your principles ahead of yourself. “John Lewis was always willing to do what needed to be done. It’s that willingness to do whatever it takes and divorce that from ego, that’s what it means to be a prodigy.”

Special Mention

“Much Ado About Nothing” Faction of Fools

Showing April 9 – May 2 factionoffools.org

Your favorite faction of fools at the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop presents a delightful amalgamation of classical Renaissance artforms for their 17th “Getaway” season this spring. Director Natalie Cutcher’s “Much Ado About Nothing” blends William Shakespeare’s late 16th century text with liberal helpings of the Fools’ signature Commedia dell’arte, presenting us with a much-needed vacation from our daily travails.

Taking place amidst the opulence of a luxury hotel perched on the Sicilian cliffs (references here to The White Lotus season two are welcomed), Danny Cackley, Francesca Chilcote, Lorenzo Miguel, Mary Myers, Matthew Pauli and Jasmine Proctor assume the roles of Don Pedro, Leonato, Claudio, Benedick and his amore Beatrice, the

COOKING CLASSES & TASTINGS

Master Chef: Cambodian Cooking with Celebrated Chef Erik Bruner-Yang

Saturday, April 4 @ 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

Kitchen 101: Knife Skills w/ Chef Wendi James

Monday, April 6 @ 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Vietnamese Street Food with Chef Mark Haskell

Thursday, April 9 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Date Night: French Bistro with Chef Wendi James

Friday, April 10 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Marianne Tshihamba’s Silk Road

Cooking Series: Moroccan Chicken with Preserved Lemon

Thursday, April 16 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Long Lunch – Asian Dumplings with Chef Mark Haskell

Friday, April 17 @ 11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Marianne Tshihamba’s Silk Road

Cooking Series: Zanzibari Pilau

Saturday, April 18 @ 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

Provençal Spring Bounty with Chef Mark Haskell

Tuesday, April 21 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Master Chef Featuring Magpie and the Tiger Chefs Caleb Jang and Roren Choi – Spring Vegetable Banchan and Bibimbap

Saturday, April 25 @ 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

Kitchen 101: Knife Skills w/ Chef Wendi James

Monday, April 27 @ 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Marianne Tshihamba’s Silk Road

Cooking Series: Venetian Antipasti and Bellinis

Thursday, April 30 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

CONCERTS

Acclaimed Irish, Scottish, and American Folk duo Rakish in Concert

Friday, April 3 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Global Sounds on the Hill Featuring ALASH, Masters of Tuvan Throat

Singing

Friday, April 10 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

FROM CHINA TO APPALACHIA and Around the World Featuring Cathy Fink, Marcy Marxer & Chao Tian: Family Fun!

Sunday, April 19 @ 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

STUDIO ARTS

Basic Drawing Techniques: Drawing

From an Image with Christine Vineyard

Tuesday, April 7 @ 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Contemporary Watercolors Workshop with Christine Vineyard

Saturday, April 25 @ 12:30 pm - 2:30 pm

Introduction to Linocut Printmaking Workshop with Christine Vineyard

Saturday, April 25 @ 3:00 pm - 5:30 pm

LECTURES & CONVERSATIONS

The Life of a Poet Featuring Brian Gilmore, author of No More Worlds to Conquer: The Black Poet in Washington, DC in Conversation with Poet/Editor Kyle Dargan Thursday, April 9 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

EVENTS

Hill Center’s Family Fun Day 2026 Sunday, April 26 @ 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Programmatic support provided by the Capitol Hill Community Foundation and the DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities.

roguish Don John, Hero and assorted other characters that populate one of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies. Double entendres, scandal, deceit, unrequited love and a disastrous wedding all combine with a lavish set by Johnny Weissgerber and resort wear by Cidney Forkpah for what co-artistic director Kathryn Zoerb calls “a really lovely night at the theater.” And don’t worry. Unlike White Lotus season two, there’s a happy ending.

Upcoming Attraction

“A Streetcar Named Desire” The Streetcar Project Showing April 20 – May 4 thestreetcarproject.com

In 1947, a play by Tennessee Williams opened on Broadway that debuted two virtually unknown actors at the time. Marlon Brando and Jessica Tandy were Stanley Kowalski and Blanche Dubois in “A Streetcar Named Desire,” a steamy tale of a fallen southern belle fleeing a sordid past, her browbeaten sister and a truculent, poker playing travelling salesman all crammed into a tiny apartment near New Orleans’s “Desire” streetcar line.

Williams’s play – which went on to win the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1948 – is peppered with the characters we’ve come to love from a playwright whose work reflects his own colorful life. It’s also been widely performed and adapted over its almost 80-year history, with Blanche, her sister Stella, Stanley and Blanche’s illfated love interest Mitch all appearing in both feature and made-for-TV films, TV series, an opera, several ballets and even a song by Sinéad O Connor. Perhaps it’s no surprise then that actor and director Nick Westrate along with Lucy Owen and Ryan Hill have formed a production company named “The Streetcar Project”

inspired by the play, and that their touring production of “A Streetcar Named Desire” has garnered rave reviews for its eight runs across the country over the last three years.

“The Streetcar Project,” explains Lucy Owen (who plays Blanche) was born during the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic when Owen and her fellow actors saw their entire industry shut down virtually overnight. “As a way to reconnect with myself creatively, I picked up ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ and contemplated my favorite part.” What started as a small gathering of actors and friends finding solace in Tennessee Williams’s work eventually became a fully realized production under the trusted directorship of Westrate, Owen’s creative partner and friend.

This interpretation of Williams’s play can be performed anywhere. No set and minimal props means that the raw talent of the ensemble of Owen, Brad Koed (Stanley), Mallory Portnoy (Stella) and James Russell (Mitch) truly sparkles, which was Owen’s intention all along. “Things felt so bleak for working class artists, getting to come back to one great play with four great actors has been galvanizing for us and I think for people that come to see it.”

Of course it’s wonderfully meta that we get to see the play performed at Dupont Underground, a performance and exhibition space that was once an old streetcar station. It’s also a joy to see a legendary piece of theater being fleshed out by actors who’ve spent several years slowly digesting Williams’s words. “Blanche Dubois is the smartest character that’s ever been written. She’s like a female Hamlet,” Westrate says. “I think that’s why this play is done repeatedly. It deals with the eternal questions of life and death, family and betrayal, love and desire.” u

APRIL 25 TH 7:30 PM

St. Mark’s Church 301 A St., SE

All proceeds for: $25

Timber Bridges

The Indie Band that Keeps Capitol Hill Weird

by Emily Blumberg

Maxfield Wollam-Fisher, cellist of the folk band The Timber Bridges, has made it his band’s mission to “keep Capitol Hill weird.”

“I want us to keep shaking hands and playing on the streets and making art together. Be curious about the music in this community. It’s really, really lively,” he said.

The second floor of Music on the Hill is typically reserved for eager students ready to hone their craft. But on this bright, idyllic Saturday afternoon, the sun streamed into the waiting room as I sat down with The Timber Bridges.

Violinist/guitarist Hunter Gray, cellist Maxfield Wollam-Fisher and guitarist/banjo player JC Mickenben have been playing both original songs and covers around the DC area and Virginia since 2023. A unique combination of instruments for a folk band, the trio combines elements of bluegrass, orchestral, and indie music inspired by everyone from Nickel Creek to Teagan and Sara to The Beatles.

“I started my music career at age eight when I started piano, and then in fourth grade, I switched to violin. I played in orchestras from age 10 until I was 33. And then when I took a break from that and met these guys, I thought ‘Okay, I can do a different avenue and keep that passion and not get burned out from it,’” Gray said.

All employees at Music on the Hill, the band’s connection to Capitol Hill, is integral to their identity as a band.

“For us as individuals, but also as a band, we’re incredibly centered on Capitol Hill. Everyone is surrounded by politics and [our music] is about being normal, complex humans in this community we’re in,” said Wollam-Fisher, who has lived on the Hill for nearly a decade.

In a neighborhood often synonymous with the American political system itself, Wollam-Fisher said the band aims to provide community and

connection against the grain of Capitol Hill’s national reputation.

“We all know Capitol Hill is more than what people from anywhere else, including our parents, think Capitol Hill is. So when we think about whether we want to focus on one political thing or another, we find that we don’t need to because our existence is so entwined with the lives and the community around us. We enjoy contributing to the complex society that is Capitol Hill,” he said.

At performances driven by an appreciation for human compassion, Mickenben told me he hopes neighbors of all professions and backgrounds can find a home in their music amidst the political angst and turmoil that plagues much of the area’s federal buildings.

“When you are in the belly of the beast, and a lot of the people in this immediate community work in government or are lawyers, it’s nice to be a salve,” Mickenben explained. “When people come to a show, they know that we’re going to talk about

tender things and not belabor the things that hover. And it’s not like we’re unaware of them. Of course we are. I think when people come to see us, when we gather in the room together, we are here to feel the love.”

Mickenben, who writes most of the band’s songs, said their music is inspired by the everyday experiences and people that have shaped his and his bandmates’ lives.

“A lot of us have had busted hearts over the years, so I talk about that. And a lot of times I’m talking to a younger version of myself,” he said. “There’s a lot of broken heartedness in the songs, but the songs themselves are hopeful, because we’re on the other side of it.”

The band, which has a significant LGBTQ+ following, also uses their shows as a platform to advocate for trans rights and celebrate the Hill’s queer communities.

“It’s important to the three of us that our shows are a safe place to express love and heart-

break. Some of our music speaks on the love celebrated and the pain endured by the trans community and we express it through solidarity and with great jubilation,” JC said.

As the band expands beyond its home base near Stanton Park, Wollam-Fisher said the joy of live music remains the epicenter of their work together.

“What one would hope is that whatever song we’re playing, people nd a re ection of that in their own life and then they’re brought closer to the experience of hearing it live. You want people to stream and follow you, and that’s what we’re building towards. But right now, the pleasure we get is to play live,” he said.

Fans across the neighborhood have enjoyed the unity and celebration of a Timber Bridges show. One fan in particular, Mickenben noted, loved the Wammie-nominated song “The Town” so much they had memorized the lyrics.

“We played a gig once, and I saw somebody mouthing the words to a song that I wrote, singing back to me,” Mickenben said.

“And I was very moved that somebody had put my words to memory. And it just felt like, ‘Oh, this reached a person in a tangible way that I’ve not experienced before.’”

“Sometimes on the Hill, I can feel like an outsider, but never when we’re playing music,” Wollam-Fisher added.

Currently, the band is working on a ve-song EP to be released later this year. The band’s next performance is May 31st at Pie Shop, www.pieshopdc.com/shows, on H Street at 7:30pm. Their music can be found on Apple Music and Spotify and their website can be found at www.thetimberbridges.com.

Art on the Hill: Turning Clay into Community Eastern Market Pottery at 60+

by Rindy O’Brien

Art is more than what we hang on our walls or admire in print in our favorite books. It might be something functional like the coffee mug we reach for every morning or yur favorite popcorn bowl. When the item is hand-made and, even better, when you know the artist; it is like inviting them to come along on your daily adventure. Sarah Buffaloe, owner of Eastern Market Pottery, says she has a whole shelf of mugs made by pottery friends. Each morning, when she reaches for a mug, she feels her friend welcoming her to the day.

Since 1963, the pottery studio has been part of the Eastern Market, Capitol Hill community. It is located at 225 7th Street, SE, the south end of the market in the basement. When it first opened, the studio was in the attic above the market stalls. It has weathered floods, fires, and most recently the COVID pandemic.

For decades, Eastern Market Pottery was managed by Susan Jacobs and owned by Chuck Brome. It has long been held in deep affection for its sense of purpose and excellence in teaching and instruction whether you are a beginner or a serious potter. Sarah and her husband, Eric Hanson, purchased the business in 2019. They are continuing the studio’s long traditions while investing new energy and passion into the effort.

Sarah Buffaloe – Pottery Sage

Sarah loves the multiple roles she has created for herself—owner, manager, teacher, potter, and community builder. “Eastern Market Pottery is pottery making and community making rolled into one space,” says Sarah. “When my husband and I moved to Capitol Hill from Columbia Heights, the pottery studio became our community. When rumors started circulating that Chuck might be selling the studio, after a lot of thought, we decided to approach him about buying it,” Sarah remembers. “A decision we are still happy to have made.”

The start was a little rocky because the timing coincided with the global pandemic. But some thoughtful space planning allowed the new owners to spread the pottery wheels out for students to be socially distanced while they worked. “We used the guidelines that were available for gym spaces, and not a single potter contracted COVID from the studio.” Today, Sarah is very conscience about air filters in the space, and the cleanliness of the studio is remarkable.

Sarah had her first pottery class while an undergraduate at Syracuse University. The pottery program at Syracuse is reserved for art majors, so the only chance to take a class was in the summer. Sarah is a certified green architect but is concentrating on her pottery for now. “I think the skills of being an architect parallel the interests and skills of pottery,” Sarah says. “There is something incredibly satisfying in taking an idea and seeing it functionally.”

The Studio Life

Currently, there are 70 students who use the Eastern Market Pottery studio. There are seven classes a week with ten students per class. Some classes are in the mornings, and others are after work. The four instructors, some of whom have taught at the studio for decades, are Sarah, Lynn Murphy, Ellen Jaffe, and Robb Murray.

In addition, Sarah has been bringing in other pottery teachers for one-to-two-day special classes. The workshops fill up fast. Sarah encourages everyone from beginners to more accomplished potters to take the special classes. “I think it is aspirational for anyone learning the craft to hear what others have learned in their artistic journeys.”

The studio has room for ten potters’ wheels, a designated area for creating glazes, and two electric kilns. The room has plenty of open spaces with shelving to hold each student’s work. The studio is so brightly lit and welcoming that you soon forget that you are in a basement area.

An example of the studio’s special offerings is the late March three-hour class by Bethany Slater, a local potter, reed-maker, and oboist. She is skilled at techniques for making repeating patterns, slip-trailing under glaze, and glazing geometric patterns. Bethany’s stain-glass surface decorations have been

displayed in galleries across the United States and were recently featured in the national Ceramic Monthly. She teaches at the District Clay Center.

Eastern Market Studio has a two-year wait list for evening classes. Before you can even put your name on the list, Sarah has you take a tryout class to see if the space, the community, and the activity is right for you. She says this has worked out well in helping to manage the wait list.

Giving Back to Community

On Sunday April 26th, Eastern Market Studio will host its spring sale. “It is really one of the best days of the year in the studio,” Sarah says. Sixteen students and instructors sell their artwork, including a table of work marked “the community corner.” Proceeds from the pots and ceramics sold in the corner help fund a mutual aid account to assist students with limited financial resources. “The past year with so many layoffs and changes, we were happy that we could provide help to those in need. Being able to stay connected and create art during the stressful time is so important,” remarks Sarah.

In addition to the mutual aid fund, the studio participates in the “empty bowl” drive

in Arlington, Virigina, each year. This year, the studio made and donated 100 hand-made bowls to the Arlington Food Assistance Center’s fundraiser. On February 8th, local chefs created homemade soups, breads and desserts and patrons took home a homemade bowl at the end of the luncheon. The e ort is a huge funding resource for AFAC, an organization that feeds 4,200 families each week.

The Eastern Market Pottery Studio is teaching new generations of Hill residents the joy of pottery making, making lifelong friendships and giving to the community in a friendly, happy space. There is a gift shop in the studio space featuring work from the studio’s instructors. Next time you are at the market on a Saturday, take a walk down the steps to the pottery studio to check out pots or just say hello. And, don’t forget the spring sale on April 26th.

Rindy O’Brien writes about Capitol Hill’s art and cultural scene and can be contacted at rindyobrien@gmail.com ◆

Upcoming Exhibits

“Petalpalooza,” Cherry Blossom Festival on April 4, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Yards Park. A day of free interactive art and other activities for the entire family. Live music on multi-stages ending with a rework displayed set to music that begins at 8:00 pm. Art activities will also happen in the family zone downtown at the Smithsonian’s American Art Museum, 8th and G Streets, NW. For lastest updates, https://nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/

“Here and There,” The Capitol Hill Dental Arts gallery will exhibit Marilyn Saks-McMillion’s solo photographs from March 31, 2026, through June 30th. It will feature a variety of subjects, styles, representational and semi-abstract, color and black-and-white, and will include local, regional and international location. The Opening Reception is April 10, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 27 6th Street, NE.

“American Artistry,” Smithsonian Craft Show will be held April 22nd through the 26th at the National Building Museum located at 301 F Street, NW. Considered one of the premier craft shows in the country, 120 juried craft artists will be present. It is a $25 ticketed event, with proceeds supporting the Smithsonian preservation and conservation projects.

“Next Festival – Extravaganza,” George Washington University’s Corcoran School will host the annual, year-end showcase celebrating graduating students’ work across studio arts, dance, design, photojournalism, theatre, and music on April 23rd from 6:00 to 9:00 pm in the Flagg Building located at 500 17th Street, NW. Tickets required, corcoran. gwu.edu/next-festival ◆

Poetic Hill

Mario Melo

by Sandra Beasley

Mario Melo has lived in the Tenleytown area by American University since August of 2025. They moved to Washington, D.C. after graduating from the University of Denver with a Master of Arts in English & Literary Studies. Mario’s poetry attempts to strike the balance between distance, romanticism, and directness.

Somm

Orange tulips.

They say they convey understanding and a sense of appreciation.

Noticing my sudden uster, since I know nothing about owers, you tell me about orange tulips.

You always fret for the lost car keys, and the cat pushes me aside to lounge by your orange tulips.

We wake and understanding confounds me.

The sunlight beaming stamens as the morning stretches into an orange tulip.

Sandra Beasley is the curator of “Poetic Hill,” a resident of Southwest, and the author of four poetry collections. If you live in D.C. and you’re interested in being featured, you can reach her at sandrabeasley@earthlink.net for questions and submissions (1-5 poems). ◆

DC Beer Fest at Nat’s Park. April 11. Session 1 at noon, general admission, $107; Session 2 at 5 p.m., general admission, $130. Nat’s Park, 1500 S. Capitol St. SE. washington-dc.events.

“As You Like It” at the Folger. Through April 12. Rosalind and her cousin Celia are forced to leave the court where they find respite and adventure in nature, inevitably succumbing to the madness of love and delightfully unpredictable circumstances. $20 to $90. folger.edu.

Peak Bloom: Dome Experience at Union Market Hi-Lawn. Through April 26, Peak Bloom transforms Hi-Lawn’s rooftop Dome into a breathtaking digital cherry blossom spectacle—where petals, light and motion unfold overhead in an immersive springtime journey. $12 to $25; 45 minutes. unionmarketdc.com/tenants/ the-dome-at-hi-lawn.

Mosaic Theater Company’s “Young John Lewis” at the Atlas. Through April 26. It’s time to make some Good Trouble! This new hip-hop and soul musical honors the legendary “Conscience of Congress”: the late Congressman John Lewis. Tickets start at $62. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. atlasarts.org.

Hill Center Galleries 2026 Regional Juried Show. Through May

2. Open to artists residing in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. hillcenterdc.org.

“A Good Day to Me Not to You” at Arena. Through May 3. Drama Desk Awardwinning actor Lameece Issaq teams up with two-time Obie-winning director Lee Sunday Evans on her wildly candid new play, which centers on the chaotic life of a 40-something dental lab tech who gets fired and moves into a woman’s rooming house run by nuns. Tickets start at $75. arenastage.org.

Washington Nationals April and May Home Schedules. April 3, 4 and 5 vs. Dodgers; April 6, 7 and 8 vs. Cardinals; April 17, 18 and 17 vs. Giants; April 20, 21, 22 and 23 vs. Braves; May 1, 2 and 3 vs. Brewers; May 5, 6 and 7 vs. Twins; May 15, 16 and 17 vs. Orioles; May 18, 19, 20 and 21 vs. Mets; May 29, 30 and 31 vs. Padres. mlb.com/ nationals/schedule/2026-05.

LOCAL CALENDAR

DC United Audi Field April and May Schedules. April 4, vs. Dallas; April 25, vs. Orlando; May 13, vs. Chicago; May 16, vs. St. Louis; May 23, vs. Montreal. Tickets start at $27. dcunited.com.

The Life of a Poet Featuring Brian Gilmore. Author of No More Worlds to Conquer: The Black Poet in Washington, DC in Conversation with Poet/ Editor Kyle Dargan. April 9, 7 to 9 p.m. $12. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. hillcenterdc.org.

Hill Center Concerts. April 10, 7 to 9 p.m. ALASH are masters of Tuvan throat singing (xöömei), a remarkable technique for singing multiple pitches at the same time. $23. April 19, 4 to 6 p.m. FROM CHINA TO APPALACHIA and Around the World Featuring Cathy Fink, Marcy Marxer & Chao Tian: Family Fun. GRAMMY winners Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer are joined by Chinese

hammered dulcimer virtuoso Chao Tian in a highly energetic, participatory concert of family fun. $23. (under five, free). May 1, 7 to 9 p.m. VERONNEAU in Concert: From Paris to Rio & Beyond. From Paris to Rio & Beyond blends soulful French, American & Brazilian repertoire and a touch of bluesy originals. $23. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. hillcenterdc.org.

Chiarina Chamber Players “Fire and Brillance”. April 11, 7:30 p.m. Rising star and 2024 Avery Fisher Career Grant winner Njioma Grevious returns to the Chiarina stage to present Prokofiev’s radiant sonata and lively showpieces by DC native Clarence Cameron White. Grevious joins Chiarina’s artistic directors in Mendelssohn’s exhilarating Trio in D minor to round out this glowing program. General admission is $33.85; 18 and under, free. St. Mark’s, 301 A St. SE. chiarina.org.

Used Book Sale at NE Library. April 11, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (second Saturday of the month). Shop a wide

Running of the Chihuahuas at the Wharf. May 2, 2 to 5 p.m. This free event features the iconic Chihuahua races, Pacifico Beer Garden, a DJ, adoptable pet parade and more. wharfdc.com/chihuahuas.

range of donated titles, most are $1 to $2. 330 Seventh St. NE. dclibrary.org.

Congressional Cemetery

Cherry Blossom 5k. April 12, 9 to 11 a.m. Enjoy a beautiful and invigorating run (or walk) inside the cemetery in the company of some of their beloved cherry trees. $40. congressionalcemetery.org.

Washington Bach Consort Noontime Cantata Series. April 13, 12:10 p.m. Nach dir, Herr, verlanget mich, BWV 150. Free admission. St. Mark’s, 301 A St. SE. bachconsort.org.

Hexagon 2026: Lollapalosers! at the Atlas. April 17 to 26. Washington’s Only Original Political Satirical Musical Comedy Revue returns for its 70th year with more original songs and skits with its usual serving of political zing. They spare no side but aim at both with wit and originality. $44.75. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. atlasarts.org.

District Sounds 2026 at the Wharf’s District Pier. April 18, 3 to 9 p.m. The lineup features DC public school students sharing the stage with international artists, a flamenco vs. tap dance battle, the Carly Harvey Band, and a grand finale with critically acclaimed DC rapper ODDISEE performing alongside an 80-person orchestra. $6 to $12. wharfdc. com.

Sing Out Piano Bar and Open Mic with Gay Man’s Chorus. April 22 and May 20, 8 to 11 p.m. Come out to sing with live piano accompaniment or just enjoy the music. Free admission. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. atlasarts.org.

Historian Susan Eva O’Donovan Discusses Her Book “Moving Towards Freedom: The Political Education of Enslaved Americans”. April 23, 7 to 9 p.m. $12. Hill Cen-

Faction of Fools’ “Much Ado About Nothing” at CHAW. April 9 to May 2, at CHAW, 545 Seventh St. SE. Set-in modern-day Messina, Sicily at a luxurious boutique hotel, Shakespeare’s treasured story of love-games, loyalty, and assumptions is given a heightened glow up with their signature theatrical style. $17 to $37. factionoffools.org.

ter, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. hillcenterdc.org.

DC United Talon’s Birthday. April 25. 7:30 p.m. DC United vs. Orlando City SC. Celebrate the birthday of the Black-and-Red’s beloved mascot, Talon at Audi Field. A family-friendly night with special matchday festivities in honor of the big day. dcunited.com.

Uncorked: DC at Nat’s Park. April 25, 7 to 10 p.m. Sip and swirl over 100 wines, bubblies, and cocktails from around the globe, feast on local food truck flavors, and dance the night away overlooking the iconic Nationals Park field. General admission, $75. mlb.com/nationals/ tickets/events/uncorked.

Congressional Cemetery Spring Fair. April 26, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Now in its second year, the Spring Fair at Historic Congressional Cemetery is quickly becoming a beloved seasonal gathering in DC, bringing together local makers, neighbors, and visitors to celebrate spring through sustainability, creativity, and community. congressionalcemetery.org.

Hill Center’s Family Day 2026. April 26, 2 to 6 p.m. Come enjoy a completely free day of magic, music, face painting, balloon animals, alpacas and more. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. hillcenterdc.org

NoMa’s CiNoMatic Outdoor Movies. Wednesdays, May 6 to June 10. You bring the blankets and NoMa will provide the laughs and showstoppers for their season of musicals, comedies, and feelgood movies under the stars at Alethia Tanner Park, 227 Harry Thomas Way NE. nomabid.org.

The Folger Consort’s “An English Garden”. May 8 to 10. Folger Consort presents a program of Elizabethan songs and instrumental music interspersed with short readings of poems and gardening advice from contemporary authors. Tickets from $20. folger.edu. u

R

GREENDC

An Earth Day Special

Potomac Cleared, But Trust Still Murky

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

Bob Vernon* has been shing the Potomac River for more than 60 years. His father brought him out as a child; later, he brought his own kids. Now retired, he still sets up along the Tidal Basin, toting a lunch, hoping to pull a bass from the water as they chase the shad. (He asked us not to use his real name, as he does not have a current shing license. DOEE does not require residents older than 65 to purchase one.)

He’s not especially alarmed by the recent sewage spill. “In the seventies,” he said, “the river was full of worse things than s***.”

Vernon doesn’t eat what he catches—“I’m not goin’ in there, and they’re not goin’ in me,” he said—but he keeps shing. For him, the river’s long

A Look At the Potomac River As We Head Into Summer

arc matters. He remembers when his dad ate what he caught, and when the Potomac stunk—when President Lyndon Johnson called it a “national disgrace.” It is cleaner now, he said, despite the spill.

That long view helps explain the mood on the river this spring. People are wary, but not panicked.

After weeks of warnings, DC Health lifted its recreational advisory on March 2, saying testing showed bacteria levels had returned to safe ranges for boating, kayaking, shing and other uses. DOEE has said DC’s drinking water was never affected, and DC Water restored full ow to the Potomac Interceptor by mid-March. Maryland and Virginia followed by lifting advisories downstream.

So, is the Potomac safe for summer? Based on current data, DOEE says largely yes for activi-

ties like rowing, paddling, boating and shing. But “safe” comes with caveats. Swimming has been illegal in DC since 1971. Agencies continue to monitor water quality and shoreline contamination near the collapse site. Federal oversight remains high, with EPA taking daily samples near the break.

Even now, con dence in the river depends as much on perception as on science. For Captain Tim Blanchard, who runs a shing and river tour business on the Potomac ( shthepotomac. com), the biggest damage wasn’t in the water, but in the media.

“The headlines have stuck around a lot longer than the sewage did,” he said.

Blanchard said business slowed sharply after the spill—not because conditions remained dan-

“The spill is a warning, ... When critical infrastructure maintenance is delayed, when investments lag, the consequences are devastating.”

gerous, but because customers stayed away.

“It’s because of the coverage of the spill. It’s because of the stigma,” he said.

That perception has been slow to lift, even as conditions improved. Spring is typically peak season for shing guides, coinciding with the annual shad run, which draws anglers to the river. This year, Blanchard said, the return has been gradual.

He is careful not to minimize ecological damage, particularly near the spill site. But for his customers, his message is simple: “The water [is] safe. It’s safe to sh. We’re still running our programs.” All but the nal week of their kid’s summer camp have sold out, he said.

Short Term Recovery, Long-Term Damage

The divide—between localized ecological harm and broader river recovery—sits at the center of the region’s response.

The spill itself was massive. When the Potomac Interceptor, a 72-inch sewer line carrying tens of millions of gallons of wastewater daily, collapsed in January, an estimated 200+ million gallons of untreated sewage entered the river—one of the largest sewage releases in U.S. history.

And yet, in one crucial respect, the region got lucky. The rupture occurred downstream of the Washington Aqueduct’s primary intake at Great Falls, which supplies drinking water to the District. DOEE emphasized that “DC drinking wa-

ter has not been impacted,” because contamination moved away from, not toward, the intake. The Army Corps of Engineers kept the Little Falls intake o ine as a precaution.

The contamination quickly drew federal attention. The White House directed EPA to coordinate the response, and the agency later took over daily monitoring near the site. What might otherwise have been a regional infrastructure failure became a matter of national concern because the Potomac is the capital’s only drinking water source.

Timing also worked in the region’s favor. Potomac Conservancy President Hedrick Belin warned early on that if the spill had occurred later in the year, during peak recreation season, “E. coli contamination could have e ectively shut down large stretches of the river.” Instead, the spill hit in January, when use is low.

Still, environmental groups caution against declaring victory in testimony before the DC Council’s Committee on Transportation and the Environment.

“Monitoring must continue through seasonal change to ensure the river is genuinely safe, not merely assumed to be,” Chris Weiss, Director of the DC Environmental Network, told Council.

DOEE Director Richard Jackson said that while testing showed E. coli levels below recreational thresholds by early February, the agency would continue monitoring long-term impacts to “fish, wildlife, and the river.”

Conservation groups have called for multi-year ecological monitoring of bacteria, plant and animal life, warning that “the true ecological impacts of a spill of this magnitude will only become clear” over time. Nutrients released into the river could later lead to algal blooms and dead zones.

The Potomac Conservancy has also framed the incident

as a failure of infrastructure and accountability— not just an environmental event. “Containment is not accountability,” Belin told Council. “The ecological harm is signi cant, but so is the damage to the public trust.”

In blog posts and public statements, the group emphasized that aging systems, limited redundancy and unclear oversight create ongoing risk in a region that depends heavily on a single river for drinking water.

Others have been more blunt. Potomac Riverkeeper Dean Naujoks described the spill as a “gut punch,” and a public health and environmental emergency, noting extreme bacterial levels near the site and warning that the river supports not just recreation but livelihoods and subsistence shing.

Unlike Vernon, a recreational sherman, Naujoks said those who earn their living from the water fear for their livelihoods.

“I’ve talked to watermen who are terri ed,” he said. “We pull about three million tons of blue

cats out of the river every year… They’re terrified that nobody is going to take their fish.”

The fallout is now moving into court. A class-action lawsuit filed in March alleges DC Water failed to maintain and monitor the interceptor adequately, seeking damages for contamination and economic losses to vessel, business and landowners along the shoreline.

The District was lucky that the sewage flowed away from its drinking water intake. Lucky that protective measures at the Aqueduct worked. Lucky that the spill came in winter, not spring. Lucky that testing showed relatively quick improvement.

But “lucky” is not the same as “secure,” river advocates warn.

“The spill is a warning,” Belin said March 2 at the council hearing. “When critical infrastructure maintenance is delayed, when investments lag, the consequences are devastating.”

The spill released an enormous volume of untreated sewage into a defining regional waterway and underscored a deeper reality: the capital of the United States relies on a single river system and aging infrastructure that, when it fails, raises not just environmental concerns, but questions about resilience and preparedness.

Summer may well be safe. But recovering the Potomac River— and more importantly, the public’s trust—may take much longer.

For more information on DOEE’s testing data, visit doee. dc.gov. For DC Health’s advisories, visit doh.dc.gov. For DC Water’s progress on the Potomac Interceptor repair, visit dcwater. com. u

Your Soaring Energy Bills What Can Be Done To Reduce Them

Frustrated by the cost of your recent electric and gas bills? Wondering how to cut costs besides turning down your heat or turning o your AC? The good news is that DC still o ers a variety of cost-cutting energy programs–for both homeowners and renters.

But, rst, why are our energy bills so high? Certainly, the war in the Middle East is causing oil prices to rise, and that increase trickles down to all energy production. But in DC, energy increases started long before March 2026. A January 7, 2026 Axios article (https:// www.axios.com/local/washington-dc/2026/01/07/why-dc-utility-bills-are-rising-again-this-winter) notes that from 2020 to 2025, DC electricity prices increased 93 percent, a larger increase than any-

where else in the United States and points to a perfect storm of causes for these spikes: rate hike approvals from DC’s Public Service Commission; the prevalence of huge data centers that are driving up utility costs across the region, DC’s small geographic area that limits its ability to expand and diversify energy production, and the extended cold weather in January and February.

Gas bills meanwhile, have increased approximately 6 percent annually since 2014, even though the typical DC residential gas customer uses 30 percent less gas today than in 2014. These rate increases were determined by DC’s Public Service Commission (PSC) which reports to the mayor while the DC Coun-

cil, through its Committee on Business and Economic Development, sets the Commission’s statutory framework and holds annual performance and oversight hearings.

From 2017 through early January 2026, Councilmember AtLarge Kenyan McDu e led the District’s PSC oversight. With CM McDu e’s recent resignation from the Council in January, Ward 6 CM Charles Allen now heads this committee.

So, what can you–as a homeowner, renter, or apartment dweller–do to reduce your energy costs?

While federal incentives for solar have been eliminated, installing solar panels on your home makes more sense in DC than in any other state or municipality in the US. DC still offers a wide variety of solar programs–for homeowners and

renters. DC’s Department of Energy and the Environment (DOEE) is your rst stop for solar options (https://doee.dc.gov/service/solardistrict) while Solar United Neighbors (https://solarunitedneighbors. org/locations/dc/) also has some excellent guidance on solar energy for homeowners and renters including information on how to identify a reputable solar installation company.

DOEE has teamed up with EnergySage (https://www.energysage. com/landing/home-solar/p/dc_ doee/? to help District residents and businesses make the switch to solar energy by installing solar panels on their property or subscribing to a local community solar farm. The amount of solar energy you’ll be able to produce through a rooftop solar array will depend on how much sun reaches your roof and the weather. During some months, your array may produce more ener-

gy than you use and produce Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs). These SRECs can be sold and help offset the cost of your solar installation.

When installing a solar array on your home, one of the first questions you’ll be asked is whether you want to own your panels or lease them. Leasing panels means that you’ll pay significantly less installation costs as the installer (or some other party) will receive money from the sale of the SRECs produced through your system. Revolution Solar has been installing solar arrays on DC homes and businesses since 2017. Matthew Young, CEO of Revolution notes, “The average DC home will carry a 10 KW system that will cost approximately $30,000. If you opt to purchase your system versus leasing it, income from your SREC production coupled with your reduction in electricity costs from your solar energy production means that you can break even on your solar investment in six years.” But, regardless of whether you own or lease your solar array, you’ll see a significant reduction in your electric bill with the solar energy your system produces. In the case of this writer, during 2025, for four months, with our solar array alone (not counting SRECs we earned) we paid only $7.65 per month for our electricity bill (the Pepco delivery fee) while our bill for four other months was less than $20 per month. Those bills made our January 2026 bill, when our panels were covered in snow and not producing energy, a bit easier to swallow.

If you’re a renter, don’t have a solar-compatible roof, or you prefer not to install equipment on your property, you can still power your home with solar by subscribing to a community solar project or solar farm (see https://www.energysage. com/community-solar/). Thanks to virtual net metering (VNM), purchasing community solar is seamless and you’ll pay for it through your Pepco bill. The energy for your home will still flow through your existing Pepco system, and Pepco will distribute the amount of energy credits you purchase from the farm in the form of electricity throughout the grid. Pepco will apply bill credits to your monthly bill, reducing your charges. Community Solar subscribers see their electric bills reduced by 5-20 percent. DC offers other solar programs as well. Some residents qualify for DOEE’s Solar for All program that provides free energy to low- to moderate- income households. Participants must meet

below average income criteria and can participate in Solar for All through single family solar or community solar programs.

If you’re looking beyond solar to reduce your energy costs, the DC Sustainable Energy Utility https://www.dcseu. com/residential-rebates/electrify) offers a wide array of rebates for the purchase or installation of more energy efficient appliances, electric panels, heat pumps and more for DC residents and businesses. For more than 15 years, the DCSEU has helped District residents’ lower energy costs. Ben Burdick, the DCSEU Managing Director notes, “We’ve helped DC residents save some $2.2 billion in lifetime cost savings, including more than $120 million through residential rebates for energy efficient lighting and appliances and home electrification upgrades. Older household equipment–refrigerators, clogged dryers, and boilers can become major energy drains, driving up utility bills. We offer a range of programs designed to offset the cost of replacing these appliances with more efficient electric models, many of which are available regardless of household income.”

So let some solar sunshine in and think about upgrading some of those older appliances. It may make your next utility bill just a little easier to weather.

Ward 8 Woods Monthly Cleanups. Suitland Parkway Volunteer Days--every first Saturday of the month from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shepherd Parkway Community Cleanup--very second Saturday of the month from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Register at ward8woods.org/volunteer.

Monthly Volunteer Events at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens. Through October, join Friends of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens on the fourth Saturday of every month at 9 a.m. to support maintenance activities at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens. kenaqgardens.org.

Rain Gardens Talk at NE Library. April 14, 6:30 p.m. Jordan Gochenaur of the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, has extensive experience in planning, installing and maintaining a wide range of landscaping practices including rain gardens, conservation landscaping and permeable pavers. He will talk about rain gardens in an urban setting. NE Library is at 330 Seventh St. NW. capitolhillgardenclub.org.

Green Calendar

The Wharf Water Cleanup at Recreation Pier. April 22, 5 to 7 p.m. Participants will get kayaks from the Wharf Boathouse on Recreation Pier, collect trash from the waterways, then get together for an after-work happy hour. Participants will also be provided kayaks, paddles, life preservers, rubber gloves, and trash bags for collecting floating trash. All proceeds go to local waterway preservation organizations. wharfdc.com.

DC Living Earth Festival: “Always Becoming”. April 25 and 26, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Join the American Indian Museum for a weekend of stories, artist demonstrations, hands-on activities, performances and more centered on the relationship between art and the earth. americanindian. si.edu.

Anacostia Watershed Society Earth Day Cleanup. April 25. The cleanup is AWS’s largest annual volunteer event. Hundreds of volunteers from around the watershed will pick up trash, serve our community and enjoy the Anacostia River. Sign up at anacostiaws.org.

Community Forklift Garden Supply Pop-Up Shop. April 17, 18 and 19, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit Community Forklift reuse warehouse, 4571 Tanglewood Dr., Edmonston, MD, during regular store hours for deals on garden tools, pots, décor, and more. On April 18, noon to 3 p.m., there is a plant swap; on April 19, noon to 3 p.m., a seed giveaway. See what materials you can buy reused and save money while helping them reduce landfill waste and conserve natural resources. communityforklift.org.

Theodore Roosevelt Island Trails. Although Theodore Roosevelt Island looks like it developed naturally over thousands of years, it is actually a designed landscape. Architects at the Olmsted Brothers Firm and workers from Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s Civilian Conservation Corps cleared, graded, and replanted it to look “real.” Each of the island’s trails passes through–and is named after–one of the habitats they created. Swamp Trail is 1 ½ miles; Woods Trail, ½ mile; and Upland Trail, ¾ mile. nps.gov/this/planyourvisit/trails.

Birding at Kenilworth Park. Tuesday mornings, 8:30 to 10 a.m. Over 250 different species of birds have been spotted at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens and Kenilworth Park, 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE. The park manages habitat for ground nesting, aquatic, and woodland birds. Bring comfortable shoes, water, and binoculars if you have them (sunscreen when applicable).

Seasoned and new birders are welcome. nps.gov/keaq.

Anacostia Park Care Day. April 25, 10 a.m. to noon. Join Friends of Anacostia Park in supporting a clean and vibrant Park for all who visit. Projects vary; all supplies are provided. Typical activities include trash and invasive species removal, mulching/watering trees, and beautifying the landscape. friendsofanacostiapark.org.

Mother Earth & Me at Discovery Theater. April 28 to May 1, 10:15 and 11:30 a.m. The magic of earth science takes center stage in this fun, interactive Discovery Theater, Ripley Center, original as audiences explore the origins of our planet and the systems that shape it, from powerful plate tectonics to the ever-present water cycle, and

even the impact of life itself. Adult tickets are $8; kids, $7; and under 2, $3. discoverytheater.org.

First Friday at Community Forklift. (Celebrating the Anacostia River, reuse and currents that connect us). May 1, 5 to 8 p.m. Kick off the First Friday season with live music, food trucks, sweet treats, and a laid-back Friday night vibe in their warehouse and yard. Enjoy special discounts on salvaged materials and connect with community groups inspired by the Anacostia River and reuse. Community Forklift, 4571 Tanglewood Dr., Edmonston, MD. communityforklift.org.

Clean the Bay Day. May 2, 9 a.m. to noon. Clean the Bay Day has

• Community Resources • Service Providers • Home Improvement • Real Estate • Arts & Dining • Pets

Health & Fitness

Local Stories • Neighborhood Updates & Much More!

Azalea Peak Bloom at the Arboretum. Peak bloom can vary by two weeks or more, depending on the weather, but usually takes place around the end of April. The earliest peak date reported last decade was April 15; the latest, May 4. usna.usda.gov.

been a staple for Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay community since its inception more than 30 years ago. Since the event began, this Virginia tradition has engaged more than 174,000 volunteers who have removed almost 7.1 million pounds of debris from the land and waterways. Register at cbf. org/clean-the-bay-day.

Plant Swap at MLK Library. May 3, 1 to 2:30 p.m. This swap is

free and all plants are welcome, however common or rare. Make sure all plants are pest-free and in clean containers. Plants and cuttings can be in water or soil, as long as they’re transportable. Clean, empty plant containers and plant-care items are also welcome. Registration is not required but sign up to get an email reminder before the event. MLK Library is at 901 G St. NW. delibrary.org.

Splash and Dash: 5k Walk/ Run. May 16, 9 a.m. to noon. Join the Potomac Riverkeeper Network for a new annual fundraising event, Splash and Dash. This walk/run encourages individuals, families, and corporate teams to get physically active on or alongside the Potomac River--running, walking, or swimming--while raising awareness and funds to protect and restore the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers. potomacriverkeepernetwork.org.

Community Supported Agriculture in the Washington DC Area. For over 40 years, Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) has become a popular way for consumers to buy local, seasonal food directly from a farmer. Advantages are you eat ultrafresh food, with all the flavor and vitamin benefits and get exposed to new vegetables and new ways of cooking. Read more and find a local farmer at localharvest.org/ washington-dc/csa.

Sign up for the Anacostia Watershed Society Volunteer Newsletter. To stay in the know about their volunteer opportunities, join their monthly/ seasonal Volunteer Email Newsletter. This email will share upcoming events, pictures and stats about past volunteer successes, and seasonal tips to make the most of your volunteering experience. anacostiaws.org/how-tohelp/volunteer. ◆

• See the Jenks Bees and sample some honey @DChoneyguy Del Voss

• Sample locally made beer with DC Homebrewers Club.

Keith Roofing

In The Weeds

by Teri Speight

In my small urban yard, I find it easier to plant in large pots. Can you suggest seasonal color or multi-season interest that will add diversity to my containers or small space? Great time to think about gardening in a container or elevating your small space. Intentional gardening, as well adding fun, is possible when utilizing a small space or pot. Always think of odd numbers. This applies to planting in containers as well as in-ground plantings. One evergreen or small tree with seasonal interest such as variegated foliage, sculptural branching, or interesting bark can be considered as the thriller, anchoring the space. Using shallow rooted plants as a living mulch, decreases the chance of root damage. Otherwise using a simple mulch will keep the root zone protected during times of drought and excessive winter chill. Shallow rooted plants for shady areas include Tiarella, Myosotis, hardy geraniums, hardy begonias, some ferns, or epimedium. For sunny spots consider verbena’s, creeping phlox, or low growing creeping herbs such as thyme or oregano, as well as sedums. Allowing creeping plants to drape over the tops of pots or spread add unexpected interest.

of miniature container tomatoes, Swiss chard and cosmos. You can sprinkle the cosmos blooms in a cocktail or include in a salad.

Finally for the spiller, create an edible salad bowl that is within reach?

Add nasturtiums or other edible herbs for a relatively drought tolerant pot or ground cover. Pinching off a bit of oregano, steaming the leaves of the sweet potato vine, harvesting strawberries or mint, can be quite a delicious experience. Other non-edible spillers are Hakone grass, petunias, calibrachoa, Iberis sempervins, sweet alyssum, artemisia, or delosperma.

Make certain the growing, lighting, watering, and feeding conditions are the same or similar for ease of maintenance. Plant in odd numbers adding depth, a naturalistic look, and adds impact.

Of course you need a filler. Think outside the box. Try some of the newer small shrubs and plants, bred specifically for containers. Did you know that Blueberry bushes have gorgeous spring blooms, seasonal fruits, and excellent fall color? Plants that attract pollinators offer an eye level view of what happens when you invite life into the garden by planting with a purpose. Sun tolerant plants such as globe amaranth provide all summer color, as do lantana, salvias and zinnias. For shade consider an assortment of miniature hosta, bold, taller Ferns, heuchera, and woodland Pphlox. For a unique, edible twist, consider a pot

Can you o er advice on how to use old potting soil?

Potting soil can be reused and revived for a few seasons. Remove half to one third of the potting soil from your container. Flu the remaining potting medium and add a good quality compost or fresh potting soil. Mix in additional soil amendments thereby reviving the depleted potting medium. To recycle old potting soil, consider creating a pot or a spot lled with plants that prefer lean soils such as cacti, succulents, yarrow, or various ornamental grasses. Any potting soil that has been removed can be composted, sprinkled onto garden beds or disposed of. Discard any potting soil if the prior year’s plants were diseased.

Want to learn more about gardening or spend time with people who like plants? The next Capitol Hill Garden Club meeting is on Tuesday, April 14th at 6:30pm at the Northeast Library, 330 7th St NE and is open to all. Visit capitolhillgardenclub.org for more information. Want gardening advice, information and commentary from the Capitol Hill Garden Club? Send your questions to capitolhillgardenclub@ gmail.com. ◆

Changing Hands

Changing Hands is a list of residential sales in Capitol Hill and contiguous neighborhoods from the previous month. A feature of every issue, this list, based on the MRIS, is provided courtesy of Don Denton, Associate Broker at Coldwell Banker Realty on Capitol Hill. The list includes address, sales price and number of bedrooms.

PRICE BR FEE SIMPLE

BLOOMINGDALE

TRANSFORMED interior renovation in immaculate modern style! Steps to Stanton, Senate and SCOTUS!

644 Massachusetts

This June The District of Columbia Holds Its Democratic Primary and a Special At-Large Election.

The Hill Rag, The Ward 6 Democrats, The Ward 2 Democrats, The DC Democrats, Stonewall Democrats and Spotlight DC are jointly holding election forums to help citizens make their ballots matter.

DATES:

Mayoral Forum – Hill Center: Tuesday, May 5 / 7 to 9 p.m.

Mayoral Forum – Transmission: Saturday, May 9 / 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Congressional Delegate Forum – St. Coletta PCS: Sunday, May 10 / noon to 2 p.m.

Ward 6 Forum – Hill Center: Monday, May 11 / 7 to 9 p.m.

At Large Forum – Transmission: Saturday, May 16 / 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

At Large Forum – St. Coletta PCS: Sunday, May 17 / noon to 3 p.m.

Chair & Forum – Transmission: Saturday, May 30 / 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Hill Center, Transmission, and St. Coletta PCS are graciously hosting the forums.

CAPITOL STREETS

A New Way to Vote Ranked Choice Voting – Here’s What to Know Before June

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

You can go online and rank your favorite ice cream flavors with the DC Board of Elections. (Choose from ten candidates, Rocky Road and Vanilla, Mint Chocolate Chip and Coffee or Pralines & Cream (app.rankedvote.co/dcboe/ice-cream/vote/embedrv/)

The exercise isn’t a joke, or a game for kids. It is serious political training. Once you vote, you can watch the Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) process as it unfolds, as the system counts through rounds of votes and, like candidates in the June Primary Election, choices are eliminated.

The ranked voting app helps voters try a process that will soon be real: ranking candidates instead of picking just one. The flavorful lesson offers a preview of what voters will encounter this June, when RCV debuts.

Beginning with the 2026 election cycle, Washington, DC, will use RCV in primary and general elections with three or more candidates. The system was approved through Initiative 83 in 2024 with about 72 percent of the vote.

The District will try it out for the first time as we elect candidates for mayor, US State Representatives, US Senator, DC Councilmembers, DC Council Chair, DC Attorney General and Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner.

A New Ballot

Voters will rank their candidates by coloring in a circle next to a candidate’s name under the ranking spot, from 1 to 5. You do not have to rank candidates; if you want to, you can select one candidate as your first choice and leave it at that.

If your first choice candidate receives more than 50 percent of first-choice votes, that candidate wins. If not, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated, and those ballots are redistributed to voters’ next choices. The process re-

peats until someone reaches a majority.

The system addresses a familiar feature of DC elections: crowded primaries, especially in at-large races, where candidates can win with relatively small shares of the vote. In recent cycles, winners have sometimes prevailed with less than one-third of ballots cast. RCV requires that winners have broader support, even if it takes multiple rounds for the winner to get there.

RCV does not change who can participate in party primaries. Only registered Democrats can vote in Democratic primaries and registered Republicans in Republican primaries. Initiative 83 proposed allowing independent voters to participate in primaries, but DC Council did not fund that portion of the law.

In general elections, for the at-large Council races where two winners are elected, each ballot counts as one vote for the highest-ranked candidate. If more than two candidates remain, the lowest vote-getter is eliminated and those ballots transfer to the next-ranked active candidate. The process continues until two candidates remain. They are then declared the winners.

Adjustments

Election officials say they expect a learning curve. Voters may want to allow more time at the polls. Ranking candidates takes more time than selecting a single preferred winner. It may also take longer for election officials to provide results, since votes are counted in rounds and mail-in ballots are valid if received up to ten days after election day.

The DC Board of Elections (DCBOE) has launched outreach across the city, including frequent information sessions. In March alone, officials scheduled events on most days of the month, both in person and online. Find one at dcboe.org/events Community groups are also engaged. For

instance, the Anacostia Coordinating Council (ACC) has been hosting sessions at their monthly meetings, held at Martha’s Table on Elvans Road, including one at 11:30 a.m. April 28.

But public awareness may still be uneven. A poll commissioned by Opportunity DC found 43 percent of District voters were unaware rankedchoice voting is coming and that roughly two-thirds of Black voters had not heard about the change.

Supporters say that may not reflect a lack of understanding. Phil Pannell, executive director of ACC and a supporter of Initiative 83, said many voters understood the concept when they approved it.

“Given that Initiative 83 passed with 72 percent of the vote, it begs the question as to whether such a landslide approval meant that a number of them did not know what they were voting for,” Pannell said. He added that voters may not know the technical details but said they generally understand that candidates must win majority support and voters can rank their choices.

Exhaustion and Spoiling

One of the most important features of rankedchoice voting is what happens when voters do not rank beyond their first choice.

A 2024 FairVote analysis found that in comparable elections, a meaningful share of voters do not use all available rankings. The report found under voting is more common among less frequent voters, but also that clear ballot design and outreach can reduce inactive ballots.

In practice, voters who rank multiple candidates are more likely to have their ballots count in final rounds.

Ranked-choice voting also introduces new ways to mark a ballot incorrectly. A ballot can be spoiled if a voter ranks more than one candidate in the same column–for example, mark -

ing two candidates as a first choice. Ranking the same candidate multiple times or marking unclearly can also create issues. In the DC context, you can see if your ballot is spoiled: no dots should be marked on either a horizontal or vertical line.

Election officials advise ranking candidates in order, one per column, without duplication. Voters who make a mistake in person can request a new ballot. But mail voters should take extra care, since errors may not be correctable once submitted.

Effect on the Race

For candidates, the change affects strategy. Under the previous system, candidates in crowded fields could win by mobilizing a narrow base. Ranked-choice voting makes that less reliable. Candidates must appeal more broadly–not just for first-choice votes, but for secondand third-choice rankings.

Early on, pundits thought this could influence tone. Direct attacks on opponents carry risks if those opponents’ supporters become a source of later-round support. Campaigns may emphasize broader appeal and shared priorities.

Several 2026 races will test the system, especially where multiple candidates have overlapping constituencies, such as in the race for US Representative. Under the old system, a candidate could win with a small share of the vote. Under RCV, a candidate who builds broad second- and third-choice support could overtake an early front-runner.

Ward and at-large Council races may be even more affected. In an at-large race with four or five candidates, a candidate with concen-

trated support in one area but limited appeal elsewhere may struggle to gain redistributed votes. A candidate with more consistent support across neighborhoods could gain ground as others are eliminated.

It remains to be seen how this plays out. A candidate apparently leading on election night may not win as outcomes may depend on how voters rank candidates beyond their first choice.

Strategy for Voters

RCV gives voters more options, but also requires more consideration. Voters can choose only one preferred candidate, marking them as first choice and leaving it at that. But doing so means their ballot may not count in later rounds. Ranking additional candidates –up to five – keeps the ballot active longer if your first few choices do not accumulate majority support. Voters can rank up to five candidates.

There is no penalty for ranking multiple candidates. A voter’s first choice is always counted first, and lower-ranked choices are only considered if higher-ranked candidates are eliminated.

If a voter’s top choice is eliminated, their vote transfers to their next choice. If no additional choices are ranked, the ballot stops counting in later rounds. For candidates, winning now requires building support across rounds to reach a majority. For DC the June primary will be the first real test of how that plays out. Learn more: dcboe.org/rcv u

Loveful Hands Sculpture Installed at Eastern Market Metro Plaza

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

The love has finally arrived at Eastern Market Metro Plaza Park. Six years after it was commissioned, Jay F. Coleman’s sculpture, entitled Loveful Hands, was dedicated in early April in a ceremony on parcel 4 of EMMP. The sculpture will rise into the view of passengers exiting the station via the escalators.

It took several years to get the Loveful Hands sculpture through design, review and fabrication, said a spokesperson for the Department of General Services (DGS), which co-manages installation. Following a 2021 review by the US Commission of Fine Arts, feedback was incorporated to strengthen the final design, including improvements to materials and seating.

The sculpture base was completed in 2022, with fabrication advancing through 2023. The artwork was completed and cast in bronze in 2024, and the project team finalized installation planning and funding in 2025.

F. Coleman

E.O’Gorek/CCN

The piece is part of DGS’s Percent for Art Program ( dgs. dc.gov/page/percent-art), which continues to invest in local artists.

The five-foot tall bronze features two hands pressed together, fingers curled and thumbs pressed at the balls to form the shape of a heart. For Coleman, the sculpture is not just a representation of human appendages. As a symbol embraced by youth, Loveful Hands also represents new forms for communicating with one another and new ways of coming together. u

Capitol Hill Community Achievement Awardees 2026

by Stephanie Deutsch

One of the rites of springtime in our neighborhood is the Capitol Hill Community Achievement Awards. Each year these signs of recognition, given by the Capitol Hill Community Foundation, go to individuals whose various endeavors have helped make Capitol Hill the vibrant, diverse, caring and creative community that it is. This year’s awards will be presented at a gala fundraising event at the Folger Shakespeare Library on May 4, showing the men and women who receive them that they are admired and appreciated for their efforts. The awards ceremony is a feelgood event if ever there was one! This year’s honorees are Phil Guire, Judy Berman and VanNessa Duckett.

Phil Guire

Phil Guire’s ready smile and deep knowledge of many aspects of life on Capitol Hill have helped to make him one of our neighborhood’s most successful realtors. He and the other members of the “Jeanne Phil Meg” team (Jeanne Harrison and Meg Shapiro) at the nationwide firm Compass Real Estate have sold a billion dollars of real estate on the Hill and all over the city. They take pride in being “great connectors,” able to not just sell folks houses but then to introduce them to neighbors or others who can answer questions about schools, sports and other activities. They take pride, too, in being philanthropic, both as an organization and each one of them personally. “We say yes to every public school that asks,” says Phil.

It was early in his career, Phil remembers, that realtor extraordinaire Don Denton told him, “If you want the neighborhood to be good to you, you’ve got to be good to the neighborhood.” It’s a lesson Phil took to heart.

Phil came to his present career in a roundabout way. He grew up in Ann Arbor, Michigan the only child of academically minded parents – his

father a statistician in the school of public health at the University of Michigan and his mother a teacher of middle and high school English as well as music. Some of this rubbed off on Phil who, with his mother’s encouragement, started to play the cello when he was four, an early and successful student of the Suzuki method. When he was six years old he and other young musicians went on tour with its creator, Dr. Suzuki. They played in Carnegie Hall and at the Kennedy Center. Phil continued playing and practicing until he was 16 at which point, he remembers, an “open and frank” conversation with his music teachers led him to step away from

music. One teacher told him, “You’re too social to sit for long in a practice room.”

By his own account, Phil was “not ready” for college at 18 and floundered a bit before finally graduating from Eastern Michigan University with a degree in management but without a firm sense of what would come next. A job offer from the Washington Performing Arts Society brought him to Washington; a chance visit from a Michigan friend working for a Congressman led to a political job. But there was no doubt in his mind in April of 1998 when, after wandering around Eastern Market with a friend, he walked by a house on F Street

NE. He remembers that he “fell in love immediately.” He had been living in Alexandria but wanting to buy a house and here it was! When he met Sarah Wilson, the woman who would become his wife, one of his first questions to her was “Want to walk past the house I just bought?”

Sarah and Phil married and a few years later they were at another turning point. Sarah had a demanding job with Deloitte; Phil had finished one job on the Hill and was facing a delay of several months before he could start the new job he wanted. And they were expecting their first child. So Phil decided that, for a while at least, he would stay home. And during the year he spent at home with their baby he thought, “I might as well get my real estate license.” He did and soon joined Don Denton’s office.

It was Don’s wife Jean who suggested that Phil might have time to work on the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop’s gala and before he knew it, he had been asked to serve on CHAW’s Board where, he says, “I cut my teeth on Board service.” A few years later he joined the Board of Capitol Hill Village and ended up serving as its president for four years.

In the midst of all this Phil and his family started attending St. Mark’s Episcopal church. Before long he was elected Junior Warden, responsible for issues relating to the maintenance of the 100 plus -year-old building just as church members were embarking on an ambitious renovation plan. Phil was in the midst of intense discussions as those in leadership wrestled with questions about how ambitious to make the renovation and how to manage the major fundraising effort that it would entail. Phil came down on the side of the bold vision – selling off-site real estate to finance a major renovation and upgrade of the church itself. He remains proud of pushing for it. Like others in leadership at St. Mark’s, he felt the space would serve not only the church members but would, on occasion be available to the community – one of the largest meeting places on the Hill.

In addition to all this Phil responded to the call to become a swim coach at Eliot-Hine Middle School where his daughter Katie was a student. There were many kids interested in the swim team and many more who did not know how to swim. Without a coach there would be no team. Phil accepted; the team started small and now has 65 members. Like much of what he has done, that

was not part of his plan but when the opportunity arose Phil embraced it. “The act of saying yes,” he pondered recently, “has been beneficial to me as a human being. I have learned a lot.”

For this endless energy and enthusiasm, for his acceptance of and contributions in a wide variety of roles, Phil Guire will receive the Steve Cymrot “Spark” Award, named for the founder of the Capitol Hill Community Foundation.

Judy Berman

Judy Berman, Executive Director of Capitol Hill Village, founded in 2007 to assist residents of the neighborhood who want to remain in their homes as they get older, grew up in Ardsley, a suburb of New York City, in a home where dinner table conversation was lively and might include talk about medical issues. Her father, a gastroenterologist, had a particular interest in the aging and elderly. “I credit him with my ending up where I am,” she says. “When I help people, I am thinking of my dad, wanting to do for others what he has done.” She calls her father, who is 98 and lives in Florida, “an inspiration.”

Still, the path from her comfortable childhood in Ardsley to where she is now was not direct. Rather, she says, she was “buffeted by the wind in the best possible way” – from Williams College in western Massachusetts for two years, to Europe for a year off and then to Brown University and a program called “Literature and Society.” An advisor there encouraged her to apply to grad school, which she did, ending up at Berkeley and spending almost 15 years in California doing a variety of jobs and eventually writing a thesis on “19th Century Political Subjectivity of the Civil War.” Meanwhile, she had friends on the Berkeley faculty in the Women’s Studies department and found herself becoming more and more interested in the fates of incarcerated women and other issues relating to women. Just after being awarded her PhD, Judy moved to Washington to work for a domestic violence prevention project here sponsored by DC Appleseed, a “think and do tank” focused on leveraging the pro bono resources of the legal community to address public policy issues.

It was while volunteering in the Youth Gardens at the Arboretum here that Judy met the man who would become her husband, Felix Nienstadt, a cartographer working at the Department

of Defense in geospatial intelligence. They settled on Capitol Hill. Felix, Judy says, is a “neighborly” person, regularly helping take out and return trash cans to their owners and chatting with everyone on the block. Their children, Amalia and Levi, are both now in college.

In 2011 Judy completed a program that was sponsored by the Non-Profit Roundtable to equip people for positions as Executive Directors. So she was prepared in 2019 when two women she knew from her work at DC Appleseed advocating for improved wages for direct care workers approached her about considering becoming Executive Director of Capitol Hill Village. She did apply and did get the job. Judy now says she “couldn’t be more proud” to be part of the organization which “helps neighbors live with independence, dignity, and joy in the community they love.”

Capitol Hill Village, with a membership of between 450 and 500, offers a wide range of both services to members and opportunities for members to volunteer and assist others. There are, of course, many challenges in this work but, according to Judy, they are “energizing.” Three months after she started the job, Covid closed down inperson services and presented an opportunity to try new ways of doing things. She remembers the “giddiness” of early Zoom meetings, then the recognition that this could become a valuable tool for staying in touch with members. There is the ongoing challenge of expanding the Village’s footprint so as to reach more people. And, in the long-term dream department, she says, it would be wonderful to have a physical space for members to gather in.

When she isn’t busy doing practical things, Judy finds herself thinking about the people the Village brings together and asking herself, “How do we stop thinking about aging as decline? Can we frame what is happening as change rather than loss? I am not a Pollyanna but I do believe that being positive has health benefits.”

For her thoughtful leadership at one of the Hill’s most significant organizations Judy Berman will receive a Capitol Hill Community Achievement Award.

VanNessa Duckett

VanNessa Duckett has deep roots in Washington, DC and a throng of fans on Capitol Hill where the “Polite Piggy” model she created first as a summer

New Samaritan Baptist Church & Capital Community News

Moth er’s Day Diaper Drive

camp and then as an after-school program is now in ve public schools. She chose the name Polite Piggy’s after noticing that each time she spoke through a pig puppet to children in her care they were especially attentive. Now each Polite Piggy’s center has a fuzzy pink pig puppet.

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1100 FLORIDA AVENUE NE

The Mother’s Day Diaper Drive is asking for donations of diapers, pullups and wipes. It costs $1,200 to diaper a baby in our region for one year, on average. Diapers are more than just a basic need, they’re a lifeline. They keep babies clean, healthy, and dry. They allow caregivers to send their children to daycare so they can go to work or school. They create moments of comfort, dignity, and opportunity. The recipient of the tax-deductible donations of diapers, pullups and wipes, the Greater DC Diaper Bank, delivers diapers to over 40,000 vulnerable families in the metro area per year through a network of 80+ social service partners.

greaterdcdiaperbank.org Satu rday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. MAY 9

VanNessa grew up, she remembers, with “love all around me.” As a small child she lived in a house in Fort Washington that her parents and her paternal grandparents had purchased together. She spent time each summer with her maternal grandparents in Augusta, Georgia. When she was in 4th grade her family moved into DC so that she could attend St. Ann’s Academy in Tenleytown and then Archbishop Carroll High School in the Brookland neighborhood.

VanNessa’s father was a DC policeman and her mother an executive secretary at the prestigious Akin Gump law rm. After school and on holidays VanNessa would spend time at her mother’s o ce, occasionally interacting with one of the rm’s partners, civil rights leader Vernon Jordan. VanNessa remembers him not just as an imposing and very tall man but as “a kind soul.” When the time came for her to apply to college Jordan strongly urged VanNessa to consider his alma mater, De Pauw University in Greencastle, Indiana. She agreed to visit it and was so impressed with the campus and the friendliness of the people she met there that she enrolled, graduating four years later with a degree in elementary education. She loved the “small-town experience.”

In August of 1999, after getting a Master’s in education from Trinity College here and a short-lived career as an “amazing tele-marketer,” VanNessa started teaching 4th grade at Maury Elementary School. She

loved it and nine years later, in response to a need, she started Polite Piggy’s Summer Camp. It was so successful that it quickly spun o an after-school and holiday program that is now at ve local elementary schools – Maury, Shirley Chisholm (formerly John Tyler), J.O. Wilson, Capitol Hill Montessori at Logan and Amidon (in Southwest). The programs all have site managers and o er a sliding scale for fees. “That’s one of the things we are most proud of,” VanNessa says. The goal in all the centers is for the children to feel loved and respected and also to have fun.

VanNessa is quick to credit her co-workers without whom Polite Piggy couldn’t have achieved what it has, especially Ebony Butler and Rolanda Johnson. She credits, too, her parents who “really showed up for me.” They modelled a life of commitment to education and to family. She remembers that her father “literally took courses my entire life. He is the essence of a “life-long learner.”

Asked what her favorite part of her work is VanNessa says she loves reading to the children. A book she especially appreciates is “I’m in Charge of Celebrations” by Byrd Baylor, a story which perfectly captures her own upbeat attitude. “I believe in nding joy in small things,” she says.

For helping generations of young children to nd joy in small things, for reassuring legions of parents and for a steady commitment to our public schools VanNessa Duckett will be honored with Capitol Hill Community Achievement Awards at the ceremony on May 4th.

For information about the awards gala, please contact Nancy Lazear, nlazear@aol.com or visit the Foundation website www.capitolhillcommunityfoundation.org. ◆

DC Falafel Helps Scouts Earn Badge

by Rebecca Claster

On Feb. 8, Junior Girl Scout Troop 40315 was welcomed by DC Falafel at 1123 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. The girls, all in fourth grade, were there to complete The Simple Meals badge. Owner Mahamoud Abdhulla introduced them to delicious Mediterranean food and how it’s made.

Girl Scouts are taught to be responsible and helpful, and the Simple Meals badge includes learning cooking and kitchen safety skills along with menu planning. The girls worked on the badge in previous meetings by looking through cookbooks to choose recipes for meals they

could learn to make for themselves and their families.

Mahamoud and his staff were wonderful hosts and gave the girls a fantastic conclusion to the project. They toured the kitchen and got to form their own falafel balls and use them to build their own sandwich or rice bowl. Grace Pavlovic shared that “their food is like REALLY good” and “they are really nice people there.” Mimi Leroy “learned how to make some food and how pita dough has to rise.” She and Clara Erps agreed that their favorite part was “eating the food.” One additional highlight was participating in making boba tea. Milly MacAlester thought “their boba tea is one of

the best I’ve ever had.” DC Falafel is a favorite takeout spot for Jessica Salzman, who usually orders a shawarma sandwich.

Troop leaders Jen Davis and Kathy Zeisel were proud of everyone for trying new things and being such great guests in the space. The owners complimented them on how wonderful and courteous the girls were.

Troop 40315 has been busy this winter with cookie sales, and upcoming adventures include a visit to the DC Council to learn about municipal government, a horseback riding outing, and working on a leadership award by helping a troop of Daisies (younger Girl Scouts) complete an activity at a spring meeting. u

ANC 6A REPORT

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

RANC 6A Questions H Street Study

cesses are “not as well understood, even by the employees.”

The protest was supported 4-0 with one abstention.

epresentatives from the DC O ce of Planning (OP) presented the H Street NE Land Use and Market Study to Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6A at their March 12 meeting. It is a corridor-wide planning e ort examining land use, public space and economic development between Third and 15th streets NE.

Planners said the study aims to support a more resilient retail environment, strengthen H Street’s identity as an arts and culture destination and guide future mixed-use development. The e ort comes more than 20 years after the District’s last comprehensive planning study of the corridor.

and institutions such as Gallaudet University, as well as hosting pop-up engagement events at high-tra c locations.

ANC Votes to Continue Protest of Dirty Water License Changes

ANC Supports DC Water Night Work Request

The study is currently in its research and outreach phase, with an interim report expected in May and a nal report anticipated in fall 2026. OP sta emphasized that community engagement—including open houses, pop-ups and surveys—will shape recommendations.

Commissioners raised questions about consultant selection and potential con icts of interest, noting that one rm involved had recently completed work for H Street Main Street. OP sta said the studies were separate and that the District-led process would remain objective.

Discussion also focused on the scope of the study and its limitations. Planners said recommendations will primarily address the public realm between building facades and the curb—such as sidewalks, intersections and streetscape design—while coordinating with DDOT on transportation issues.

Commissioners urged deeper engagement with diverse community groups and emphasized the importance of “third spaces”—informal gathering places—as part of the corridor’s future. Suggestions included expanding outreach to businesses, residents

Commissioners voted to maintain a protest of a substantial change application to the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) from Dirty Water (816 H St. NE) as negotiations toward a new settlement agreement (SA) continue. The restaurant wants to change hours of operation and alcohol sales for their summer garden. The ANC had concerns about Dirty Water’s investigative history and enforcement issues and previously voted in January to protest the application.

Some commissioners noted confusion about the process regarding the ANC’s standing. At a Feb. 17 roll call hearing, ABCA initially said that the ANC did not have standing to protest, but Shapiro said the ANC pursued the issue with the board and standing was reinstated. Shapiro said this was an example that some ABCA pro-

The commission voted unanimously to send a letter to DC Water indicating support of their request for a permit to allow night work permits related to the ongoing Tennessee Avenue water main project. The permit would allow them to work after 7 p.m. or on Sundays.

The project replaces small-diameter water mains and associated infrastructure along Tennessee Avenue and 15th Street NE. DC Water anticipates overnight work during speci c phases to minimize daytime water disruptions, particularly near schools.

Night work is expected in late April 2026 for Phase 2 of the project, with additional overnight construction projected in early 2027 and spring 2027 for phases in January and April 2027, though dates remain tentative.

Community Updates: Streetcar, RFK and Spring Clean

A representative from the o ce of Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen (D) announced the Council had funded a study

to identify a replacement transit investment for the H Street corridor following the planned closure of the DC Streetcar.

Commissioners and neighboring ANC representatives also raised concerns about transportation planning related to redevelopment at the RFK campus, emphasizing the need for a coordinated approach across agencies and neighborhoods. There was no vote on the matter.

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6A met March 12 with Commissioners Kimberly Butler (6A02), Roberta Shapiro (6A03, Treasurer), Scott Burger (6A01), and Steve Kolb (6A07, Vice-Chair) present. Amber Gove (6A04, Chair) was absent. Seats 6A05 and 6A06 remain vacant. Email Chair Amber Gove at 6A04@ anc.dc.gov if you live in one of these SMDs and are interested in a position.

The commission is scheduled to meet online at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 9, 2026. Details on how to join the meeting and up-

coming committee sessions are posted at ANC6A.org. u

Chisholm Ruling

Clarifies Historic Status ANC 6B REPORT

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6B Chair Pastore announced at the March 10 meeting that the Historic Preservation Review Board (HPRB) agreed with the commission’s protest regarding renovations to Chisholm Elementary School (1001 G St. SE), removing a key constraint that had shaped earlier modernization discussions.

At their Feb. 26 meeting, HPRB addressed the resolution of the ANC,

Virtual Login: https://dc-gov.zoom.us/j/82241 895770?pwd=30xgxP1oqOWhDHUuXw1vbrC1 rYieSe.1 and enter password: anc7d

reaffirming the statement that the school was not a contributing building to the historic district, that the Board was not designating or reclassifying the building otherwise. They clarified that the review of the building’s interior and other matters raised in the resolution fell under the purview of HPO, apparently designating decisions about the building as routine rather than significant.

The ruling follows concerns raised by parents and commissioners in recent months that the decision by DC Public Schools (DCPS) to treat the mid-20th-century gym structure as a historic structure would limit the school’s redesign. At January and February meetings of the ANC, families argued that preserving the existing structure—particularly interior elements like the stage—would constrain space and programming at a school that has not undergone a full modernization in decades.

Commissioners said HPRB determined that the building does not qualify as a contributing structure to the Capitol Hill Historic District and that interior elements raised in the ANC’s protest fall outside preservation review. The decision alone does not permit demolition, but it removes the historic-preservation basis DCPS had cited; the matter now goes back to DCPS and the design team to decide next steps, without being restricted by the historic-status constraints. Commissioners said that questions remained about whether the renovation budget would permit a demolition. There was no vote on the matter.

Wingstop Hearing Delayed

Commissioners reported continued progress in negotiations with Wingstop (406 Eighth St. SE), which seeks special zoning relief from the Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) to operate a fast-food restaurant. Zoning restricts the number of fast food restaurant ants on Barracks Row.

Representatives said discussions have moved into technical review, including engineering analysis and site-specific mitigation. Wingstop agreed to delay its zoning application from April 1 to May 20 to allow additional time for settlement discussions.

Commissioners described a recent meeting between residents, engineers and the applicant as productive and said further study will inform next steps. Members said they hope to bring forward a proposed settlement agreement in the coming weeks.

Southeast Library Opening Timeline Remains Uncertain

The ANC heard updated but conflicting timelines for the reopening of the Southeast Library (403 Seventh St. SE), which has been closed for renovation since January 2024.

Commissioner Sobelsohn said that at a recent meeting, project representatives noted construction could finish by the end of June, with the library opening approximately 45 days later—potentially by early August. However, DC Public Library (DCPL) staff more recently described a broader “end of summer” timeline to the Executive Office of the Mayor (EOM), which could extend into late September.

Commissioners said they will press DCPL to clarify the schedule and ensure transparency. Members also emphasized the need to keep the interim Arthur Capper library location open until the permanent branch reopens to avoid a service gap.

Commissioners asked a representative of the Mayor to ensure that ANC members and task force participants be included in upcoming walkthroughs of the site.

Rumsey Aquatic Center Design Raises Market Concerns

Commissioner Pastore said that the Eastern Market Community Advisory Committee (EMCAC) has raised concerns about the design of the Rumsey Aquatic Center (635 N. Carolina Ave. SE), particularly its impact on market operations.

He said the current design may restrict delivery access in the adjacent alley, where large trucks bring food and supplies to the indoor market. Members warned that limited access could disrupt daily operations, especially on weekends when surrounding streets close.

EMCAC also expressed concern that the plaza design could reduce space for the prepared food market, one of Eastern Market’s most popular features. Commissioners said they expect further discussion of these issues at upcoming meetings.

In Other Business

The ANC voted to:

• Support an application to ABCA for a stipulated license application from Little Engine (750 Seventh St. SE) .

• Approve committee and task force appoint-

ments: Max Lancaster, Planning & Zoning Committee, Southeast Library Task Force (alternate); Jack Johnson, Planning & Zoning Committee (alternate); Jake McCabe, Planning & Zoning Committee (6B07); Nick Berger, Planning & Zoning Committee (alternate).

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6B met on Tuesday, March 10 at 700 Pennsylvania Ave. SE and via Zoom. Present were Samuel Pastore (6B05, Chair); Edward Ryder (6B08, Vice Chair); Anna Krebs (6B06, Treasurer); David Sobelsohn (6B03, Secretary); Tyler Wolanin (6B01); Gerald “Jerry” Sroufe (6B02); Brian Gorman (6B04); and Vince Mareino (6B07).

ANC 6B generally meets at 7 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month in person and online via Zoom. The next meeting is April 14. Details are available at anc6b.org. u

Discontinued Streetcar Leaves H Street Feeling Uncertain

ANC 6C REPORT

by Sarah Payne

Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen (D) briefed commissioners on the public safety and transportation future of the H Street corridor in light of the District Department of Transportation’s (DDOT) plans to cease DC Streetcar operations March 31. Last fall, DDOT announced the closure of the streetcar, encouraging riders to plan and explore alternate transit options. In a press release, the department cited plans to work with the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) MetroBus to provide alternate routes for riders. As the closure approaches, much about the corridor’s transportation future remains unknown. When asked about future plans, Allen said DDOT did not provide them. “I’ll just be very blunt, there is no plan right now,” he said.

Allen discussed a potential connection between H Street and Benning Road in conjunction

with the RFK Campus redevelopment but noted that it’s “years in the making.” He encouraged commissioners and community members to “not let [DDOT] o the hook” about the need for connection and transportation along H Street and in neighboring communities immediately following the Streetcar’s closure.

Beyond transportation, Allen raised concern about the agency’s lack of plans to remove Streetcar shelters and large signs. Stations and catenary wires above the street are also not scheduled to be removed, according to Allen. The Councilmember worries that leftover equipment will impact local business visibility and create public safety risks. “We need to work with DDOT to take [the demobilized equipment] down or modify it in a way that doesn’t create a visual barrier along the corridor, both for supporting our local businesses and for safety concerns,” he said.

While the transportation future of the corridor is unknown, community members are eager to see how the city can help improve the neighborhood, Allen reported. “I just keep hearing from folks that they are feeling a sense of optimism about seeing some really concerted e ort going into how we help H Street,” he said, emphasizing the importance of the addressing the corridor’s needs, supporting small businesses and planning for its future.

Much of this community feedback centers around how to make the corridor more pedestrian friendly, Allen noted. “I will be with you to keep prioritizing that pedestrian e ort from DDOT and push that forward,” he added.

Other Matters

The Great Ward 6 Spring Clean is scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 25. The Commission voted to:

• support the DDOT Notice of Intent (NOI) to establish a no parking zone and 70 foot addition to the west side of 1st Street NE for trash removal and deliveries to the loading dock at Union Station, noting that the success of the NOI is heavily dependent on Department of Public Works (DPW) enforcement;

• protest the class C restaurant licence application of Viet Pho Restaurant (333 H St. NE) for lack of adherence to the terms of the settlement agreement;

• support an update to The Little Grand’s (808 7th St. NE) class C tavern license to include a streatery.

Commissioners Jeremiah Foxwell (6C01), Karen Wirt (6C02, chair), Jay Adelstein (6C03, treasurer), Daniela McInerney (6C05), Andrew Hayes (6C06, secretary) and Tony Goodman (6C07) were in attendance at the ANC 6C commission meeting on Wednesday, March 11. Commissioner Mark Eckenwiler (6C04, vice chair) was absent.

ANC 6C will meet next on Wednesday, April 8, at 7 p.m. via WebEx. You can learn more about the commission and register to attend at www.anc6c.org. Sarah Payne is a reporter for Capital Community News. She can be reached at sarahp@hillrag.com. u

Renovations Planned For SW Public Housing

ANC 6D REPORT

by Andrew Lightman

The DC Housing Authority (DCHA) Director Keith Pettigrew and Housing and Development Project Manager Erin Wilson from the DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DC DHCD) briefed the commission on planned major renovations of the James Creek, Greenleaf and Syphax public housing communities.

Syphax and James Creek will be rehabilitated, perhaps as early as this fall, once financing is secured, stated Wilson. The agencies do not plan to alter the appearance of the three complexes. However, the interiors and mechanical systems will be completely replaced. This is a one-to-one replacement that will minimize displacement by wherever possible relocating residents elsewhere on site.

Under the Rental Assistance Demonstration Program (RAD), DCHA will move residents in the three public housing communities from traditional public housing (Section Nine) to long-term Section 8 contracts, Pettigrew stated. This will permit DCHA and DC DHCD to better leverage public financing to renovate the properties.

The three properties will remain publicly owned, stated Pettigrew. This is why DCHA is working with fee-for-renovation developers. The developers plan to meet with residents in April, he added. Construction is unlikely to start until November.

There will be no rescreening of residents. Under RAD, all those currently living in public housing units are guaranteed a right to return to their communities and the option to move after one year. Resizing of units is also not permitted.

Secretary Hamilton and Commissioner Chearie Phelps-El commended Director Pettigew on his responsiveness to the community.

Other Matters

Metropolitan Police Dept. (MPD) First District Lt. Elias Danho briefed the commission on public safety. In the last 30 days, compared to the same period last year, crime is down. The major crime was a domestic stabbing.

The commission voted to submit the recommendations of ANC 6D’s Task Force on Pedestrian Safety to the appropriate city agencies, ask that they acknowledge receipt and provide a status report on the recommendations within 60 days.

Dantes Partners Senior Vice President of Development Joel Patterson and Reverend Brian Hamilton of Westminster Church requested the commission’s support for a two-year extension on their Planned Unit Development at the church. The commission voted to support the extension.

The commission voted to protest The

Streets Market at 798 Maine Ave. SW on the grounds of peace, order and quiet. It also voted to invite all five candidates for the at-large seats on the commission’s At-Large Alcohol and Cannabis candidates to its next administrative meeting to allow commissioners to meet them.

The commission voted to oppose any fencing of the parcels at 375 and 425 M St. SW until the actual commencement of construction at those sites.

DC Board of Elections (DCBOE) Voter Outreach Specialist Karla Garcia explained the intricacies of the District’s new Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) system. DCBOE is implementing RCV in accordance with the text of Initiative 81, passed in 2024. Garcia explained the process and also outlined some common mistakes to avoid.

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6D met on March 16 via Zoom. Commissioners Gottlieb Simon (6D02, chair), Gail Fast (6D03), Andrea Pawley (6D04), Chearie Phelps-El (6D05), Bruce Levine (6D06, vice chair) Fredrica (Rikki) Kramer (6D07, treasurer) and Rhonda Hamilton (6D08, secretary) were in attendance. Marquell Washington (6DO1) was absent.

ANC 6D meets at 7 p.m. on the second Monday of every month. The next meeting is on April 20 via Zoom. For more information visit www.anc6d.org. u

Transportation and Safety Implications of The RFK Master Plan

ANC 7D REPORT

by Sarah Payne

Representatives from the District Office of Planning (OP) briefed commissioners on the District’s vision for the new RFK campus through discussion of the RFK Redevelopment Master Plan. The District’s Master Plans guide the transformation of large sites into mixed-use areas by shaping design, space and connectivity through community input and col-

laboration with agency partners.

Community Planner and Deputy Project Manager for the RFK Master Plan Diamond Thompson-Smith said the OP is currently developing plan guidelines for RFK and anticipates releasing a draft for public comment this summer. The agency plans to host community engagement events, including in-person open houses and virtual opportunities, to ensure they are “hearing from an array of perspectives and getting as much community input as possible,” Thompson-Smith said.

The scope of the Master Plan drew questions from commissioners. Chair Brian Alcorn raised concern about the roads, businesses and residential areas surrounding the project given that “the nature of the neighborhood is going to change drastically in such a short period of time” as a result of the project. He questioned if the plan will extend outside the development’s 180 acre plot to consider the transportation inequities and connectivity in nearby communities.

“We as a commission are trying to learn a little bit more about the process, but also want to calibrate where our advocacy should be, particularly as it relates to pulling all of the different disparate pieces together that are intended to support the stadium,” Alcorn said.

While the plan primarily focuses on the site itself, the agency plans to “look at census tracts around the study area to understand the demographic makeup of residents, understand neighborhood conditions and the needs and priorities from a data and a research perspective and supplement [the findings] with [feedback] directly from residents and communities to our engagement,” according to Associate Director of Neighborhood Planning Heba ElGawish.

Access to East Capitol Street SE, which currently allows drivers to go around the stadium site to access other roads and nearby residential neighborhoods, was of particular concern for community member Francis Campbell. “No one has been able to address how we are going to access our homes,” Campbell said. “You have not talked about how we are going to access what we presently access by being able to come around the stadium on East Capitol Street.”

The large size and scope of the site will create several new parcels and blocks, according to

ElGawish. She said the “Master Plan” will examine the streets to “improve, increase and enhance connections” both within the site and in the adjacent neighborhoods.

Alcorn emphasized the importance of focused engagement from the many “probably well-intentioned, but seemingly not well coordinated stakeholders” involved with the project to collaborate on solutions to these issues.

The commission voted to send a letter to the OP, Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED), the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), the District Department of Transportation (DDOT), the Washington Commanders the DC Council Committee on Transportation and Environment and the National Capital Planning Commission urging inter-agency coordination and calibration on transportation planning and to request public meeting for community members to engage directly with project stakeholders and share feedback about the RFK redevelopment.

Other Matters

The commission voted to:

• request that the Department of Public Works (DPW) post “No Parking Anytime” signs in the east-west alley behind The Bell Apartments along the 1700 block of East Capitol Street SE;

• send a letter to the Mayor’s Office of Special Events of the District Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA) expressing support for the 45th Capitol Classic race on May 17;

• r equest DDOT’s engagement and action to regrade a portion of the alley system in Square 1069 (bounded by A Street, 15th Street, Constitution Avenue and 16th Street NE) to remediate water drainage issues;

• request that DDOT install an automated traffic signal

at the intersection of 16th Street NE and East Capitol Street NE.

Commissioners Joshua Taborn (7D01, vice chair), Artilie Wright (7D03), Katie Murphy (7D04), Ebony Payne (7D05), Dominic Pacheco (7D06, secretary), Brett Astmann (7D07, treasurer), Brian Alcorn (7D08, chair), Ashley Schapitl (7D09) and Dev Myers (7D10) were in attendance at the ANC 7D commission meeting on Tuesday, March 10. 7D02 remains vacant.

ANC 7D will meet next on April 14, at 7 p.m. via Zoom. You can learn more about the commission and register to attend at www.7d0761.wixsite.com/anc7d-1. Sarah Payne is a reporter for Capital Community News. She can be reached at sarahp@hillrag.com. u

Pirro Tells ANC She Wants to “Get Her Hands on” DC Youth

ANC 6/8F REPORT

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

US Attorney for DC Jeanine Pirro told Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6/8F that District law prevents her office from prosecuting most juveniles involved in

disruptive “teen takeover” incidents, a growing concern in Navy Yard. Under current statutes, responsibility for juvenile cases largely falls to the DC Attorney General. Pirro said her office can only charge youth as adults in limited, serious cases such as homicide or armed offenses.

“I want them,” Pirro said of the teens involved in behavior that disrupts businesses and public safety. She called for changes that would allow her office to prosecute younger offenders more broadly, rejecting the District’s emphasis on rehabilitation in family court.

Pirro also credited a federal law enforcement surge launched in August 2025 with reducing crime, citing declines in homicides and other offenses. She said federal authorities have made thousands of arrests and removed large numbers of illegal firearms, though some figures were not independently verified.

Her remarks drew pushback from commissioners, who questioned both her data and her role in local enforcement. Concerns were raised about data transparency, civil liberties and the presence of federal officers in the city.

The exchange underscored a broader policy moment for the District. The emergency youth curfew is set to expire on April 14. At publication time, the DC Council appears unlikely to extend it.

Speaking after Pirro’s remarks, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officials described their efforts to monitor social media, coordinate with neighboring jurisdictions and then deploy officers to anticipated gatherings. Commissioners responded with visible frustration. The gatherings have persisted for more than a year, and they are questioning whether current strategies are effective, they said.

There was no vote on the matter.

Budget Priorities: Prevention vs. Enforcement

At-Large Councilmember Doni Crawford (I) appeared to solicit community input ahead of the FY26 budget process, describing a projected $1.1 billion gap across FY26 and FY27 and a roughly 70-day timeline for council action.

Crawford also addressed uncertainty around the District’s tax “decoupling” legislation, noting the Chief Financial Officer has held approximately

$250 million in reserve pending legal clarity. That uncertainty, combined with reduced federal funding, is expected to shape difficult budget decisions.

Continuing their focus on youth and public safety, commissioners emphasized the need for preventative investments, particularly in expanded out-of-school-time programming, youth mental health services and long-term, permanent funding to replace pandemic-era supports, particularly in youth programming.

Crawford pointed to the community schools model as one approach that integrates academic instruction with social services such as food access, counseling and housing support.

At the same time, commissioners raised concerns about enforcement resources, including MPD staffing levels and prior grant-funded security programs that supplemented police presence in busy corridors.

Curfew Uncertainty and Call for Action

In a separate motion, ANC 6/8F voted unanimously to extend a formal request to MPD for an emergency four-day extended juvenile curfew zone in Navy Yard from March 27 to 30. They also voted unanimously to ask them to extend the curfew through April 15, or at a minimum to include coverage of April Fool’s Day, which commissioners identified as a high-risk date.

Commissioners said they do not consider the curfew a permanent solution but said it remains the only available short-term tool. “I am begging for some type of solution before it gets out of hand,” Commissioner Bryant added, “and someone ends up dead.”

TOPP Updates

District staff also presented updates on the Traffic Operations Parking Plan (TOPP), which is the traffic and parking plan for events at Nationals Park, Audi Field, Capitol One Arena. District Department of Transportation (DDOT) Communications Manager Kelly Jeong-Olson presented on the plan and the 2026 website (topp. dc.gov), a centralized online portal for feedback on game-day and event traffic impacts.

Key changes for 2026 include an expanded resident access placard zone, updated and clar-

ified MPD and Traffic Control Officer (TCO) Maps. The primary focus, Jeong-Olson said, is improving the efficiency and enforcement of TOPP rather than redesigning the plan. Enforcement remains a problem, she said, and encouraged ANC and DC Council support a budget for more DPW staff, which she identified as the greatest limitation.

The ANC unanimously voted to send a resolution to DDOT requesting a monthly TOPP check-in from April through October with DDOT, the ANC and other stakeholders.

In Other Business:

Commissioners voted to:

• appr ove a letter of support to the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) for a stipulated license for DC Tackle Shop (301 Water St. SE, rear) in pursuit of a Settlement Agreement (SA) for the full license.

• a pprove a letter of support to ABCA for a stipulated license and streetery endorsement for Tap 99 (1250 Half St. SE) to avoid a gap in the ability to operate the outdoor space due to the city’s re-application requirement.

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6/8F met in person and online for the March business meeting on March 24. On the dais were Commissioners Nic Wilson (6/8F01), Vice Chair Markita Bryant (6/8F02), Chair Brian Strege (6/8F03), Secretary Edward Daniels (6/8F04) and Dan Reynolds (6/8F05).

The next business meeting of ANC 6/8F takes place over Zoom and in person at DDOT Headquarters (250 M St. SE) at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 28. Residents can find details on how to join and learn more about the commission at anc8f.org. u

Bulletin Board

Register for the Capitol Hill Classic

The Capitol Hill Classic, on Sunday, May 17, has been a Capitol Hill tradition for over four decades. Funds raised through the Capitol Hill Classic go toward the Capitol Hill Cluster School, a DC Public School, and help bridge the gap between the DC Public Schools budget and the money needed to fund field trips, buy art supplies, support classroom projects, provide professional development for teachers, and fund the gardens and teachers’ requests. The Classic consists of a 10k, 3k, and a Kids Fun Run. All races start and finish in front of Pea-

body Primary School, 425 C St. NE.

The 10k starts at 8:30 a.m. ($55); the 3k after the conclusion of the 10k ($45); and the Kids Fun Run, around the park, at about 11 a.m. ($20). Fees are higher on race day. capitolhillclassic.com/info.

The 2026 Great Ward 6 Spring Clean

This year’s ward-wide clean-up event is on Saturday, April 25, 10 a.m. to noon. RSVP to volunteer by Friday, April 10, by contacting Kate Mitchell at kmitchell@ dccouncil.gov or (202) 724-8072. You can also contact Kate if you’d like to host a site. After registration

Bourbon & Bluegrass at President Lincoln’s Cottage

Bourbon & Bluegrass, May 2 and 3, 1 to 5 p.m., the Cottage’s biggest, most rollicking fundraising of the year, is back and better than ever for an extra-special line up in honor of the Nation’s 250th. Lounge on Lincoln’s lawn, sip bourbon, and enjoy live bluegrass music at the 11th annual Bourbon and Bluegrass. Hear Alison Brown on Saturday and Sunday; Jake Blount, Split String Soup and Hubby Jenkins on Saturday; Goldbug Revival on Sunday. Adults with drinks, $56; non-drinking adults, $40; youth six to twenty, $28; five and under, free. lincolncottage.org/event/bourbon-bluegrass.

Cherry Blossom 5k

In celebration of the return of spring, run on April 12, 9 to 11 a.m., for the Cherry Blossom 5k at Congressional Cemetery, 1801 E St. SE. The start and finish are within the cemetery, and the course goes out on the adjoining Anacostia Trail for a quick out and back. Water is available at the start/finish line and at a water stop around the halfway point of the course. You can register day-of. $40. congressionalcemetery.org.

DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource

Resource in the District.

DC Open Doors

DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership inthe city. is programo ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust

DC Open Doors

DC Open Doors

homebuyer or a D C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia

DC Open Doors

DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership inthe city. is programo ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust

homebuyer or a D.C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia

DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership in the city. This program offers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on first trust mortgages.You are not required to be a first-time homebuyer or a D.C. resident to qualify for DCOD. You must, however, be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia.

DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership inthe city. is programo ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust homebuyer or a D C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia

HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) rst-time home buyer program.

DC4ME

HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) rst-time home buyer program.

HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) rst-time home buyer program.

years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to

years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to

years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to

DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is offered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District governmentbased instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower’s employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.

DC4ME VA Loan Product

DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is o ered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.

The DC4ME VA Loan Product is a VA mortgage product offered by the District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA).

DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is o ered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.

COVID-19

COVID-19

DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is o ered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.

DC MAP COVID-19 provides nancial assistance to those a ected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quali ed borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage for up to six months.

COVID-19

DC MAP COVID-19 provides nancial assistance to those a ected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quali ed borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage for up to six months.

In addition to the traditional VA benefits, like no down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance, this product includes 3% assistance, funded by DCHFA, that can be used toward eligible closing costs or prepaid items. This makes the DC4ME VA Loan Product one of the most affordable and accessible loan options for qualified military-connected borrowers.

DC MAP COVID-19 provides nancial assistance to those a ected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quali ed borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage for up to six months.

www.DCHFA.org

closes, volunteers will then be asked to pick one of the sites, but you can also feel free to clean your own block. They’ll have trash grabbers, gloves, and trash bags available for pickup on Friday, April 24, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Eastern Market Metro station. After the clean-up, participants will meet at The Roost, 1401 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, from noon to 2 p.m. to grab a bite and return any supplies.

Spring-Cleaning Art Supply Swap at CHAL

On Saturday, May 2, 10 a.m. to noon, the Capitol Hill Art League is doing a spring-cleaning art supply swap at the round bench at the Eastern Market Metro Plaza. Bring whatever art supplies you no longer want. Whatever is left will be donated. caphillartleague.org.

Peterbug Shoe Academy Celebrates 50 Years on Capitol Hill

The Peterbug Shoe Academy celebrates a milestone this year commemorating their 50-year presence on Capitol Hill where they have fixed 50,000 pairs of shoes. This event will be highlighted by a screening of the documentary on its founder John “Peterbug’ Matthews. The screening is being held at the MLK Library auditorium on Saturday, April 4, 3:30 p.m. The weekend culminates at the Peterbug Academy, 1320 E St. SE, on Sunday, April 5 with conversations with candidates featuring GoGo music and food smothered in mumbo sauce. peterbug.com.

RFK Stadium Campus Community Site Walk

On Saturday, April 18, 10 a.m., neighbors of the RFK Stadium campus are invited to join a walking tour led by staff from the Office of Planning. The walk will include visits to areas that are im-

portant to the redevelopment and stopping points for discussion. This interactive outdoor workshop will allow stakeholders to step into the shoes of a planner and share their ideas for the site’s future. Meet at the Stadium-Armory Metro Station, 192 19th St. SE. Register at OurRFK.dc.gov.

Shakespeare’s Birthday Party at the Folger

Bike to Work Day

The 2026 Bike to Work Day is Friday, May 15. Join Bike to Work at more than 100 pit stops in DC, MD, and VA for this free event--a fun and healthy way to start your day. The first 18,000 who register and attend at a pit stop receive a free T-shirt. There are also giveaways, food, and beverages at participating locations, while supplies last. Most of the pit stops have morning hours and a few are scheduled for the afternoon. Free registration is now open at biketoworkmetrodc.org/register.

On Saturday, April 18, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., celebrate Shakespeare’s birthday at the Folger, 201 E. Capitol St. SE, with fun, family-friendly activities and birthday cupcakes. Join the Folger for stage combat demonstrations, ruff-making, face painting, coloring, and a sonnet competition. Practice writing with a quill, try on some Shakespearean costumes, and see their 17th-century replica printing press in action. Doors open at 11 a.m. for visitors to explore the exhibition galleries and Reading Room, where docents will be on hand to answer questions about the collection and the history of the Folger. Around 3:30 p.m. participants will sing “Happy Birthday” to Shakespeare and serve birthday cupcakes to all. folger.edu.

Tiber Island Condominium Named Community Association of the Year

Tiber Island Condominium has been named the 2025 Community Association of the Year by the Washington Metropolitan Chapter of the Community Associations Institute. The award

April Story Circle At Congressional Cemetery

Story circles are one way we might honor the living archive of daily life—a reminder that formal histories and biographies about the luminaries buried in the cemetery tell only a small part of the larger story of life in DC. April 19. Cemetery Chapel. RSVP at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdGvNGYvH9rctlhAMfKy38aWSDGontphU3-vp5_TCX4f9AcQ/viewform

recognizes communities that demonstrate strong governance, effective operations, and meaningful resident engagement, placing Tiber Island among the region’s most respected community associations. caidc.org.

Hop-On Shuttle Saturdays at the Arboretum

Hop-on Friends of the National Arboretum’s shuttle and they’ll take you to stops throughout the grounds. Then, hop-off and explore collections with ease--no driving and re-parking necessary. Docents will share information about the Arboretum at many of the stops. Hop-on the FONA shuttle on Saturdays, April 4, 11, and 18 and May 2; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rides are $5. fona.org.

Farmers Market SW Relocates to Wharf

Farmers Market SW will reopen at The Wharf this spring, securing a new long-term home just two blocks away at M Street Landing. The market is scheduled to reopen on Saturday, April 4, and will continue to operate weekly on Saturdays through November from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The market will

continue to accept SNAP/EBT bene ts and participate in the Produce Plus program, helping ensure fresh food remains accessible to all. marketswdc.com.

National’s Ballpark Access Pass

The 82-Game Ballpark Access Pass includes a Standing Room Only ticket to all 82 Nationals home games in 2026. Pay just $6 per game, while receiving access to Opening Day, prime opponents, weekend games and premium gate giveaways. Tickets are stored exclusively in the MLB Ballpark app. A one-time processing fee of $7 per pass will be added upon checkout. mlb.com/ nationals/tickets/season-tickets/ plan-options/ballpark-access.

Half

Street Farm Market Opens April 18

Half Street Central Farm Market, 1250 Half St. SE in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood, opens for the season on Saturday, April 18, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The dogfriendly market features over 30 farmers and vendors with products including meat and poultry, seafood, dairy, breads and pastries, produce, prepared foods, and juices. Marketgoers can also enjoy table seating, chef demos, children’s activities, and live music performances each week. Garage parking on N Street and lot parking at First and N. For a list of vendors, visit centralfarmmarkets.com.

SW Waterfront AARP Monthly Meeting

The Southwest Waterfront AARP Chapter extends an invitation to their monthly luncheon meeting, on Wednesday, April 15, noon to 2 p.m., during National Finan-

cial Literacy Month. Consumer Protection Advocate Sudi Tasissa and Community Outreach Specialist Jasmine Savoy from the DC Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking will join the meeting with financial literacy presentations. Lunch is $5. The meeting is at River Park Mutual Homes, Charles Goodman Common Room, 1311 Delaware Ave. SW. The meeting is open to the Washington, DC senior community, their families, friends and neighbors. For further information, contact Betty Jean Tolbert Jones, at 202-5540901 or jonesbettyjeantolbert@gmail.com.

Cajun Dance at St. Marks, April 7

Continue the Mardi Gras celebration with lively Cajun French music from southwestern Louisiana. Dance to two steps and waltzes played by the Capitol Hill Cajun Orchestra. All ages

Friday Evening Parades at Marine Barracks Resume

Marine Barracks Washington’s Evening Parades are held Fridays from May 1 through Aug. 28. This tradition has been hosted at the “Oldest Post of the Corps” for over 60 years. Beginning at 8:45 p.m., this 75-minute ceremony showcases the pride, professionalism, and esprit de corps of the Marine Corps. Guests experience military excellence with performances by “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, “The Commandant’s Own” United States Marine Drum & Bugle Corps, and the esteemed United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon. Following the ceremony, guests can meet Marines who performed throughout the parade and take photos with the Marine Barracks mascot, Chesty XVI. Admission is free, but reservations are required. Gates open at 7 p.m.; gates close at 8 p.m.; parade begins at 8:45 p.m.; parade concludes at 10 p.m. Enter at Eighth and I streets SE. barracks. marines.mil/ParadeInformation/#tab/friday-evening-

welcome. free admission. 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 301 A St. SE. stmarks.net

Anacostia River Festival

Change the World: One Diaper at a Time

On Saturday, May 9 (rain or shine), 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the New Samaritan Baptist Church and Capital Community News are conducting a Mother’s Day Diaper Drive at the New Samaritan Baptist Church (drive-thru or walk-up), 1100 Florida Ave. NE. They’re asking for donations of diapers, pullups and wipes. It costs $1,200 to diaper a baby in our region for one year, on average. The recipient of the tax-deductible donations of diapers, pullups and wipes, the Greater DC Diaper Bank, delivers diapers to over 40,000 vulnerable families in the metro area per year through a network of 80+ social service partners. greaterdcdiaperbank.org.

On Saturday, May 16, 2 to 6 p.m., the 11th Street Bridge Park and the National Park Service present the 12th annual Anacostia River Festival. Festival activities are: Guided Mindfulness & Movement; Bookmark Making Inspired by Alma Thomas; Seed Paper Making & Botany Chat; Fishing Workshops; Exploring Anacostia’s Water World; Pickleball; Fun with Building Bridges Farms; Arts Crafts & Games; Food Allergy Games & Safety Fun; Nature Exploration Activities; Creek Critter Discovery; Community Flipbook Art; Hands-On STEAM Lab; Mindful Art Making; and Community Chalk Art. On the stage are The Washington Ballet, Union Temple Church Choir, and Chief Rocka. Reservations and water safety waivers must be completed before participating in water activities. Both can be obtained from the River Activities tent located on the festival grounds. All activities are free. buildingbridgesdc.org/arf.

Arts Hub to Open in Southwest DC IN Series and 4EYE Film Center are joining Theater Alliance as the primary partners at a new multidisciplinary arts hub opening in early Fall 2026 in Southwest DC. Located at 340 Maple Dr. SW, the new 9,096 square foot space will include a 140-seat black box theater, a 60-seat cinema and proscenium performance space, as well as a rehearsal hall, reception space, scene shop, artist co-working spaces, and a civic engagement center. Together, these three arts organizations will share space, vision, and resources as the partners create a new model of collaboration that strengthens sustainability, reduces barriers, and expands impact. theateralliance.com.

Arab American Heritage Festival at MLK Library

On Saturday, April 18, noon to 4 p.m., experience a celebration of National Arab American Heritage Month at the MLK Library, 901 G St. NW. Enjoy an afternoon featuring fashion, food, music, visual art, a traditional Arab Souq, and hands-on workshops led by local Arab American artists and community members. As part of the celebration, the DC Public Library will also host an educational concert with renowned Arab American musician Muath Edriss and his band, showcasing the rich history and cultural traditions of Arab Americans. dclibrary.org.

April Free DC Meeting

Ward 6 residents are invited to attend the Ward 6 Free Dc April meeting. Come ready to receive campaign updates and connect with neighbors. Free DC is a five-year campaign led by the people of DC to protect Home Rule and win dignity for all of our communities. And we want you to be part of it! April 6 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the SW Waterfront.

A Moving Gallery: “I’ll Meet You There”

Hamiltonian Artists and The Nicholson Project, two arts organizations dedicated to fostering emerging and mid-career artists, announce a six-month city-wide exhibition, “I’ll meet you there.” Showcasing the work of artists from the DC region, Stephanie J. Williams, Jermaine “jET” Carter, Edgar Reyes, and A.J. McClenon, the exhibit will present video works that consider what it means to inhabit a space of uneasy familiarity—recognizable, yet quietly destabilizing. On view through Aug. 15, the exhibition unfolds across Washington, DC through a combination of storefront video screenings, outdoor mural installations, and a traveling 20-foot video billboard truck that transforms the city itself into a moving gallery. The truck will traverse all quadrants of the city, with the rst part on view through April 11, featuring work by artist Stephanie J. Williams. Detailed schedules and truck routes are available at meetyoutheredc.org.

Address provided upon registration, https://freedcproject.org/events

Residential Street Sweeping Resumes

The Department of Public Works (DPW) has announced the resumption of residential street sweeping, which will operate through Friday, October 30. During this time, motorists are asked to obey posted signs indicating the schedule of parking restrictions in order to ensure streets are swept thoroughly. Parking restrictions are enforced on signed streets. Parking is gener-

ally prohibited for two-hour intervals (9:30 to 11:30 a.m. or 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.) during sweeping hours. Alternate side parking is required on streets where parking is allowed on only one side. $45 nes will be issued to violators. dpw.dc.gov.

Do you have a notice for the Bulletin Board? The Hill Rag Bulletin Board includes event notices, volunteer opportunities and other community news. Send your notice to bulletinboard@hillrag.com. ◆

PLAY BALL! Capitol Hill native Sidney Hais lived by those words. In his oral history he recounted lobbying to bring major league baseball back to DC and relived his thrill attending the 1924 World Series at the old Griffith Stadium. Hais loved baseball and the Capitol Hill that gave his immigrant father a home in 1913. Read the oral histories of Sidney Hais and so many others at CapitolHillHistory.org. Play a part in preserving Capitol Hill history by becoming a volunteer.

The past few months I’ve been holed up in an exercise room with my rowing machine, Bosu and free weights trying to stay in shape. This winter’s been a brutal one and I’m excited for temperatures that will allow me to return to the beach, the trails and the courts to exercise outside. A few spring days have popped up that got me and a lot of others out pounding the pavement. How I love the sweet smells of soft dirt disturbed by hyacinths and da odils peeking out of the ground. Before stepping out onto the sidewalk, grass or court it’s important to know the di erences you’ll be facing as you do your training outdoors.

“This winter stopped lots of folks from working out outside.” said Harold Sanco, personal trainer and tennis instructor on Capitol Hill. “Transition slowly because outdoor running is di erent from running indoors,” To avoid overuse injuries, Sanco recommends setting goals and strength training

Training for Spring Races

by Pattie Cinelli

to keep muscles strong and running e cient. Perhaps the most important advice Sanco gave is to take your time. “People get excited with good weather. You need to slow down and take your time getting

back into outdoor training.” Sanco also said we tend to forget to prepare for the stress of running outdoors. “We need to work on exibility and core strength as well as strength and cardiovascular en-

durance. “Add some uphill training for speed work and have days where you do more distance on a at surface. Training should mimic the path of the race you signed up for.”

Functional Training Specialist Harvey Johnson agreed. He said o -season training that focuses on strength needs to change when you start running outside. “Once a person decides what kind of race they want to run and determine a tness level, then your focus shifts – lower the weight and increase your bilateral exercises (alternate lunges, squats, etc.).” He said you need to create a strength program that addresses imbalances and matches your running program. You start working on muscular endurance to match running endurance training.

Don’t

Rush Into Your Training

Johnson advises staying in each phase for about four to six weeks then back to strength training phase for only two weeks. The phases: indoor training focusing on strength;

Races in the DMV

April 2026 (peak season)

• Cherry Blossom 10-Mile & 5K – April 11 -12 (DC) Iconic, lottery-based race during peak bloom.

• Congressional Cemetery Cherry Blossom 5K –April 12 (DC)

• Spring Backyard Burn (trail series) – April 12 & 19 (Lorton/Reston, VA)

• Arlington Bunny Hop 5K – April 18 (Arlington, VA)

• Springburst 10K + Fun Run – April 18 (Glenn Dale, MD)

• AKT Spring 5K/10K – April 18 (Alexandria, VA)

• Active for Autism 5K & Kids Dash – April 19 (Alexandria, VA)

May 2026

• Capitol Hill Classic (10K & 3K) – May 17 (DC)

• Healthy Kids Running Series continues – through May 17 (DC) Nearby (within 1-2 hours)

• Annapolis Running Festival – March 21 (MD)

• Delaware Marathon Running Festival – April 19 (Wilmington, DE)

Quick Picks by Goal:

• Big, high-energy race: Rock ‘n’ Roll DC, Cherry Blossom 10-miler

• Fast PR course: Cherry Blossom, Annapolis

• Trail/low-key: Backyard Burn series

• Beginner-friendly 5ks: Bunny Hop, Springburst, Autism 5k

• Family/kids: Healthy Kids Running Series

begin running outdoors and shifting to lighter weights and bilateral exercises. Then two weeks back to strength. He said you can also challenge your balance and reactive ability with lateral lunges and push back to a one-legged balance. “You want your body to be able to react immediately to surprises on the run.” Johnson lays out a strategy: Day One: run; Day Two: strength; Day Three: Rest. Then repeat. Notice how your body is responding after a few weeks. Maybe you don’t need a rest day. For example: Run day, strength day run day rest day.

“Recovery looks different for di erent people,” said Johnson. “Reect inwardly and see what works for you. Slide your rest day depending on how you are feeling. Do you feel strong and refreshed after a run and strength session or do you feel tired and weak?”

Exercising outdoors o ers superior physical and mental benets compared to treadmill running because it engages more stabilizing muscles through varied terrain. It boosts immune system function, increases Vitamin D intake from sunlight, lowers cortisol for stress management and improves mental health through natural scenery and increased serotonin levels. The need to turn corners, manage slopes and adjust footing strengthens ankles, calves and hip stabilizers which are often underused on at, repetitive treadmill belts. Running outdoors gives us added variability and keeps us mentally strong and adaptable to our environment.

Often-overlooked benefits of running outdoors are the many things we experience that make us feel good. Flowers blooming along a trail, a cardinal sighted on a branch, noticing unusual cloud formations or seeing a friend along the way are all scien-

ti cally bene cial moments for us. Even brief experiences of awe yield a host of bene ts including an expanded sense of time and enhanced feelings of generosity, well-being and humility, according to a study from UC San Francisco.

Despite being told for decades that running will destroy your knees by more than one authority, a study from the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery compared 675 runners and concluded that the arthritis rate of marathon runners was well below that of the average American. When running on trails outside, did you realize the softer surface is gentler on your knees, hips and back than concrete or a treadmill?

The Washington metro area is loaded with all kinds of races this spring. They are a fun way to enjoy our Nation’s Capital, but you don’t want your outdoor activities cut short by injuries. Be sure to address imbalances in your running program, spend time recovering and above all, listen to your body.

Spring training isn’t just about logging miles but its about rediscovering rhythm, resilience and the simple joy of moving through the world again. As you lace up and head outside, let patience guide your progress and awareness shape your routine. The nish line may be your goal, but the real reward is how you get there. You want to be stronger, more balanced and fully engaged with every step, breath and moment along the way.

To contact Harold Sanco: harold tdc@gmail.com. He holds on-line conditioning classes twice a week. To contact Harvey Johnson: harveyjohnson44@gmail.com.

Pattie Cinelli, who has been writing for the Hill Rag since the 1980s, has been enjoying exercising outdoors for decades. ◆

New Samaritan Baptist Church & Capital Community News

Moth er’s Day Diaper Drive

MAY 9

1100 FLORIDA AVENUE NE

The Mother’s Day Diaper Drive is asking for donations of diapers, pullups and wipes. It costs $1,200 to diaper a baby in our region for one year, on average. Diapers are more than just a basic need, they’re a lifeline. They keep babies clean, healthy, and dry. They allow caregivers to send their children to daycare so they can go to work or school. They create moments of comfort, dignity, and opportunity. The recipient of the tax-deductible donations of diapers, pullups and wipes, the Greater DC Diaper Bank, delivers diapers to over 40,000 vulnerable families in the metro area per year through a network of 80+ social service partners.

greaterdcdiaperbank.org Satu rday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The District Vet Let Dogs Sniff Why Smell

Is a Dog’s Most Important Sense

by Dan Teich, DVM

If you’ve ever walked a dog and felt impatient while they stopped to sni every patch of grass, you’re not alone. My dog Calvin is an incessant sni er. When out for a stroll, many dog people try to hurry their dog along, treating a walk as routine exercise. But for dogs, those moments of sni ng are not distractions–they are the main event!

We see the world with our eyes; a dog’s sense of smell is its primary way of experiencing the world. Understanding how it works–and why it matters–can dramatically improve a dog’s quality of life.

A Nose Built for Information

A dog’s nose is a masterful work of art and biology. They are equipped with an extraordinary olfactory system (remember they can sni bombs through luggage). Inside their noses are up to 300 million scent receptors, compared to about 5–6 million in us humble humans. This allows them to detect odors at concentrations thousands–or even millions–of times lower than what people can perceive.

But it’s not just about numbers. The structure of their nose is speci cally designed for scent detection. When a dog sni s, air is split into two pathways: one for breathing and another dedicated entirely to analyzing smells. They can sni rapidly–several times per second–continually refreshing the scent information they receive. They can even tell from which direction a scent emanates.

They also have a specialized structure called the vomeronasal organ, which detects pheromones and helps them gather social information about other animals. This organ is present, but vestigial in people. In many ways, a dog “reads” its environment through smell the way humans read text.

A Brain Built for Smell

With such a sensitive nose, one needs su cient brain capacity to process all this information. The canine brain re ects this sensory priority. A much larger portion of a dog’s brain is devoted to pro-

cessing smell compared to humans. The olfactory bulb–the brain region that interprets scent–is proportionally far larger and more complex.

Even more importantly, smell is directly connected to areas of the brain responsible for emotion and memory. That means scents don’t just inform dogs–they shape how they feel. A familiar smell can be comforting; a new one can be exciting or even stressful.

In short, smell is not just a sense for dogs. It is a core part of how they think, feel, and make decisions.

Just How Sensitive Is a Dog’s Nose?

A dog’s nose is so sensitive that it can detect tiny traces of substances - imperceptible to even most advanced machinery (or even exceeding our best detection devices). This remarkable ability is why dogs are used in search-and-rescue missions, medical detection (some can sni out cancer or even dementia), and law enforcement.

tion. In fact, a short walk where a dog is free to sni can be more enriching than a longer, faster walk with little opportunity for exploration.

Sni ng also appears to have a calming e ect. Because scent processing is linked to emotional centers in the brain, engaging the nose can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Using their nose tires them out, and as discussed in previous articles, a tired dog is a better dog.

How to Exercise Your Dog’s Sense of Smell

The good news is that supporting your dog’s olfactory needs doesn’t require special equipment or training. Simple changes to daily routines can make a big di erence.

Slow Down on Walks

One of the easiest and most e ective things you can do is allow your dog more time to sni during walks. Instead of rushing from point A to point B, think of walks as opportunities for exploration.

Some trainers call these “sniffaris”–walks where the dog sets the pace and follows their nose. Even 15–20 minutes of sni ng can provide mean-

They can also distinguish between individual components in complex scent mixtures. While humans might smell “co ee,” a dog can separate and identify many of the individual compounds that make up that aroma. Talk about specialization!

ingful mental stimulation.

This level of sensitivity means dogs are constantly taking in detailed information about their surroundings–far more than we can imagine.

surroundings–far more than we can imagine.

Why Smell Matters for Well-Being

Because smell is so central to a dog’s experience, using it is not optional–it is essential. Research in animal behavior shows that sni ng is a natural, species-typical behavior. When dogs are prevented from engaging their sense of smell, they can become bored, frustrated, or anxious. This can lead to common behavioral issues such as excessive barking, restlessness, or destructive habits.

On the other hand, allowing dogs to use their noses provides powerful mental stimula-

S chool N otes

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

Brent Brings Newsies to Life

In March, Brent’s Performing Arts program brought the musical Newsies to life—a powerful story of young people standing together, raising their voices and ghting for what is right. Nearly 100 students participated as part of the cast and crew. The Brent community truly enjoyed the energy, talent, and joy on stage. Thanks go out to Dr. Joshua Krohn, Director of Brent’s Performing Arts Program and Natalie Zanzoncio, 3rd grade teacher, for their leadership and dedication. And of course, gratitude to

the entire cast and crew for making this production so memorable.

Brent@Meyer 2501 11th Street NW (Swing Space Site) www.brentelementary.org

CHDS Saves the Oceans

Time to save the oceans! Capitol Hill Day School sixth graders closed their Model UN Committee focused on Sustainable Development Goal 14, Life Below Water. The project capped their months-long study of power, who has it, who doesn’t, and why that might be. Students worked in pairs to represent speci c nations. They conducted research, wrote position papers, presented speeches to their peers, and ultimately passed all six draft resolutions to help conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources.

Capitol Hill Day School, 210 South Carolina Avenue, SE, chds.org

Mayor Bowser Visits DCI

Edwin Acevedo Jimenez, a senior and IB Career Pathway Candidate at District of Columbia International School (DCI), interviewed Mayor Bowser on March 4th. Edwin, along with two fellow Dragon TV seniors, sat down with the mayor to talk about her tenure, highlights and challenges —and of course, their shared love of DCI. dcinternationalschool.org

DC

Prep Presents Opportunities

DC Prep invites Spanishspeaking families on April 8 to a Resource Fair at Edgewood Elementary to explore nances, education, and community resources. Connect with JPMorgan Chase for nancial literacy, The Next Step for GED and

workforce programs. Ayuda for legal rights, My School DC for enrollment guidance and Martha’s Table will also be there. So will Champions, and Beacon House for food, clothing, and after-school support. DC Prep’s Talent Team will share career opportunities. Register today! https://www.eventbrite. com/e/dc-prep-spanish-speaking-community-resource-fairtickets-1984877963420?a =ebdsoporgpro le DC Prep, 2330 Pomeroy Rd SE, dcprep.org

Maury Puzzles Out Some Archaeology

At Maury ES, fourth grade students completed a ceramic puzzle with archaeologist, Dr. Beth Pruitt from Archaeology in the Community, Inc. Dr. Beth will complete two more lessons with the students about historical archaeology in the city as well as digital archaeology. The partnership was made possible by Maury Elementary School parents and the Kiwanis Club.

Maury Elementary, 1250 Constitution Ave NE, mauryelementary.com

Jefferson

Adds Honors to Class

Jefferson Middle School Academy congratulates the newest class of National Junior Honor Society (NJHS)

•

•

members! Congratulations to all the Trojan scholars. Jefferson is grateful for the support of the Capitol Hill Community Foundation for supporting the NJHS chapter. Photo: Aurelia Brooks Jefferson Middle School, 801 Seventh St. SW, jeffersonmsacademy.org

Ludlow Taylor Flips for Literacy

Pancakes & Literacy Night at Ludlow-Taylor was a joyful success! Families gathered for an evening celebrating reading, writing and community. Volunteers served 730 pancakes and 420 sausages while students and caregivers enjoyed literacy activities throughout the school.

The highlight of the night was the poetry competition, with an impressive 86 student poems submitted and celebrated. The event brought families together to share stories, creativity, and connection–proving that pancakes and poetry make a perfect recipe for learning.

Ludlow-Taylor Elementary, 659 G St. NE, ludlowtaylor.org

NE Stars: U is for Umbrella!

The Stars sound of the day was letter U sound! Students learned that the letter U actually has two sounds. U can make the sound found in the beginning of the words unicorn and umbrella. Classes reinforced one of the U sounds by making umbrellas!

Enrollment Now Open: Summer Camp 2026 and School Year 2026-2027. Visit nestars.net for more information.

Northeast Stars Montessori Preschool, 1325 Maryland Ave NE, nestars.net

SPS Student of the Month: Ella Cota-Hertwig

Congratulations to Saint Peter School’s February Student of the Month, Ella Cota-Hertwig (Grade 4)! Ella was nominated because she always shows love towards others. She always makes sure to ask someone if they are okay, offers a hug when needed, and is the first one to put a smile on another person’s

face. Saint Peter School is truly lucky to have her as a part of our community. Pictured L-R: Student Council President Teagan Hurley, February Student of the Month Ella Cota-Hertwig, and January Student of the Month James Krol. St. Peter School Capitol Hill, 422 Third St. SE, stpeterschooldc.org

Templeton

Academy Goes

Sweet

Middle School STEM went to Cunningham State Park to be out in nature, go for a hike, and learn about how maple syrup is made.

Templeton Academy, 406 Seventh St. SE, templetonacademy.org/dc u

Academy

CHART YOUR COURSE TO EXCELLENCE

Apply today for School Year 2025-2026. Seats are limited. Complete the application online through MySchoolDC.org

#ChoosePaul and we’ll choose you back! Increase your chances of being matched with Paul PCS by making us your #1 selection

PAUL PCS FOR 5-12 GRADE?

• 2024 Bold Performance School recipient in the High School and 2022 Bold Performance School recipient for the Middle School

• Virtual instruction for all students on Fridays

• Guaranteed seat for Paul 8th grade families into 9th grade at Paul IHS

• Bilingual Family Engagement team to meet the needs of all families

• SAT Prep, Tutoring, Honors AP Classes, Dual Enrollment, and In-House College Assistance

• Wraparound services, counseling, and student support resources for families with IEPs

• Free daily breakfast and lunch for all students Over 20 competitive middle school, junior varsity, and varsity athletic teams

• Extended day after school programs including tae kwon do, cooking club, dance, and tutoring

Think Like an Architect: A Family LEGO Design Workshop

On Saturday, April 18, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., build big ideas with LEGO at the American Institute of Architects, 1735 New York Ave. NW. Join artist Richard Paules at AIA’s Global Campus for a fun, family workshop that brings the principles of architecture and engineering to life--one brick at a time. Recommended for age six and older. Group admission for up to five people is $55.20. Ticket sales end on April 16. aia.org.

Chiarina’s Family Concert: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons

On Sunday, May 17, 2:30 p.m., at St. Mark’s, 301 A St. SE, in an original adaptation by musicologist and children’s book author Anna Harwell Celenza, Chiarina presents the story of Antonio Vivaldi, his extraordinary set of concerti The Four Seasons, and the young pupils in early 18thcentury Venice who first performed the now-beloved work. Soloist Audrey Wright shines in this program that features the “Spring” concerto and other selections from the Seasons, with narra -

tion and visuals. It is best enjoyed by audience members aged five and up. Tickets are $23.18; free for ages eighteen and under. chiarina.org.

Call for Submissions: DMV Girls and Gender-Expansive Youth of Color

This summer, Shout Mouse Press, in partnership with the National Museum of Women in the Arts, will coach girls and gender-expansive young people of color to write and publish a collaborative graphic novel. This book development project is designed for ages 12 to 16, based in Washington, DC and surrounding communities, who are interested in writing about identity, belonging and growing up. Following a three-week in-person workshop this summer, participants will be part of developing the final publication and participate in a paid Author Talks program. The book will be published in Fall 2027, before being distributed to schools, libraries, bookstores, and readers nationwide. Applications are open through April 19. For more information and details on how to apply, visit shoutmousepress.org/nmwaprogram-info.

Tudor Tots: E is for Earth

On Wednesday, April 22, 10:15 to 11 a.m., at Tudor Place, 1644 31st St. NW, early learners aged 18 months to four years old and their caregivers

National Mall’s Historic Carousel Returns

In 1967, the Smithsonian Institution’s Secretary S. Dillon Ripley planned a series of festivities to make the National Mall more welcoming to all who visited Washington, DC and the Institution’s museums. A carousel was installed in front of the Arts & Industries Building to kick off the events. That summer, visitors to the National Mall attended concerts featuring the Institution’s antique instruments and the first Smithsonian Folklife Festival. In the fall, as the weather began to cool and festivities died down, the carousel remained. It was removed in 2023 for refurbishment and for updates to the surrounding infrastructure. A reopening ceremony is on April 23 and thereafter the carousel will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. A ride costs $6. smithsonian. com/carousel.

will learn about the Earth through the soil, the flowers, plants and animals that inhabit the gardens. Taught through group story time, garden exploration and a hands-on art project. $10 per child; accompanying adult, free. tudorplace.org.

Heure Du Conte: Bilingual Fun in French and English

On the first Friday of every month, 10:30 to 11 a.m., the Shaw Library, 1630 Seventh St. NW, invites children from zero to five, accompanied by an adult, to enter into a world of fun and makebelieve. Through stories, songs and movement, discover the joy of reading and savor the flavor of language. Join us! dclibrary.org.

Art in the A.M. at Renwick Gallery

Children ages up to five years and their caregivers are invited to the museum before hours to learn, connect, and create in the galleries. On Tuesday, April 14, 9 a.m., during this program, participants will explore the prize-winning artworks in the exhibition State Fairs: Growing American Craft, on view at the Renwick Gallery, Pennsylvania Avenue and 17th St. NW. Free. Registration closes on Monday, April 13 at noon. americanart.si.edu.

Congressional Cemetery Kid’s Race before 5k

On Sunday, April 12, prior to the start of the Cherry Blossom 5k, 9 to 11 a.m., at Congressional Cemetery, 1801 E St. SE, there is a children’s race. Participation is free for any child who has a

Explore. Create. Be…The Fun!

Explore the outdoors with exciting nature hikes, treasure hunts, field trips, and creative challenges.

Full Day: 8:0 0 AM – 5:00 PM

Half Day: 8:00 AM – 12:30 PM Half Day: 12:30 PM – 5:00 PM

• Sibling Discount: 15% OFF (after the first child) • DCPS Employee/First Responder/Military Discount: 10% • Limited scholarship spaces are available, subject to eligibility.

– Household income limit: $65,000

– Weekly camp rate: $280

This summer, let your child unleash their imagination, explore new adventures, and create unforgettable memories! At Polite Piggy’s, we believe that fun is not just an activity — it’s an experience, and it starts with you!

Create masterpieces in art, science, theater, dance, and crafts while discovering new talents.

Be…The Fun! Embrace your inner adventurer, make new friends, and enjoy endless laughter through games, performances, music, and wacky competitions!

Love & Diapers: Inaugural Mother’s Day Diaper Drive

On Saturday, May 9 (rain or shine), 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the New Samaritan Baptist Church and Capital Community News are conducting a Mother’s Day Diaper Drive at the New Samaritan Baptist Church (drive-thru or walk-up), 1100 Florida Ave. NE. They’re asking for donations of diapers, pullups and wipes. It costs $1,200 to diaper a baby in our region for one year, on average. The recipient of the tax-deductible donations of diapers, pullups and wipes, the Greater DC Diaper Bank, delivers diapers to over 40,000 vulnerable families in the metro area per year through a network of 80+ social service partners. greaterdcdiaperbank.org.

parent, guardian, or friend registered for the 5k. Children may still participate, if no runners are registered, for a $5 fee. Registration for the children’s race is in the chapel the day of the race and a parent or guardian must sign a waiver. congressionalcemetery.org.

Revolutionary War Weekend at Mount Vernon

On May 2 and 3, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mount Vernon’s 12-acre eld transforms into a battleground as Continentals, Redcoats, and Hessians conduct military drills and 18th-century tactics. Meet the soldiers who are encamped at Mount Vernon, discuss military techniques, and learn about the American Revolution. Join General George Washington and some of his patriot soldiers during twice-daily performances near the encampment. Tour the 18th-century military encampments and see these civilians go about their daily lives supporting the army. Adult admission is $35; kids ages six to eleven, $22; ve and under, free. mountvernon.org.

123 Andres at Saturday LOC Family Day: Birds at the Library?

On Saturday, April 11, 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., in the Great Hall of the Thomas Jefferson Building, second oor, discover how birds of all kinds show up in Library collections and the Thomas Jefferson Building. Create your own bird and learn about ornithology, birdwatching and more from sta specialists and displays.

Hill Center Family Day 2026

The 2026 Hill Center Family Day is on Sunday, April 26, 2 to 6 p.m. Come enjoy a completely free day of magic, music by King Bullfrog, face painting, balloon animals, alpacas and more. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. Register at hillcenterdc.org.

Each Family Day includes a creative activity, connections to Library of Congress collections, a chance to talk to sta experts, and a guide to using Library resources at home. This event is free, but tickets are required for the Je erson Building. Register for free tickets at loc.gov/visit.

Inaugural Tinkerer-inResidence at NCM

National Children’s Museum announces its new Tinkerer-in-Residence, Chitra Sharma, a London-born printmaker and arts educator who has spent her career exploring the intersection of design, community, and creative joy. Sharma will lead a slate of hands-on programming for chil-

dren, families, and educators throughout 2026. nationalchildrensmuseum.org.

From China to Appalachia and Around the World

On Sunday, April 19, 4 to 6 p.m., at Hill Center, 901 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, Grammy winners Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer are joined by Chinese hammered dulcimer virtuoso Chao Tian in a highly energetic, participatory concert of family fun. Instruments include the Yangqin (dulcimer), banjo, cello-banjo, acoustic & electric guitars and percussion. There’s songs in di erent languages and American Sign Language and a Crankie. Most importantly, be prepared to sing along, follow fun hand motions and enjoy music from around the world and right here. $23; children under ve, free. hillcenterdc.org.

AWS Earth Day Cleanup with Kids

The annual Anacostia Watershed Society Earth Day Cleanup is on Saturday, April 25. The cleanup is AWS’s largest annual volunteer event. All ages are welcome. Anyone under 18 will need an adult parent/guardian to volunteer with them. When selecting a cleanup site during registration, they recommend looking at the physical level of difculty section and checking out site details to determine if it’s a site your children would be comfortable with. Some of their sites are more challenging than others and that will be indicated in the physical level of di culty and site details section. Registration for all cleanup sites has begun at anacostiaws.org.

Family Program: Plants Make Their Own Food!

On Friday, April 24, 2 to 4 p.m., at the Botanic Garden, celebrate Earth Day with Lilly and explore how plants make their own food using energy from the sun. during the process of photosynthesis. This is a drop-in experience and will be repeated several times over the course of the designated program time. Lilly Andersen is the US Botanic Garden’s Family Education Specialist. She works to build connections between people and plants through science education, focusing on the child/family audience. usbg.gov. ◆

CROSSWORD

“Headings and routes”

by Myles Mellor

Across:

1. Wild cat

5. Ship section

9. Midweek day

12. GPS, for one

15. Tachometer reading

18. “Help ___ the way!”

19. Chrysler engine

20. Cover

22. Quick __ flash

23. One way to travel

24. Boy band

25. Ship heading, abbr.

26. Fundamental reasons

28. Gin flavorer

29. Not fitting

31. Roosevelt’s coin

32. Oz lion’s demeanor

33. Exploits

34. Orchestra member

38. Alley name

41. Had had a dip

45. Fits in

46. Vain individual

47. Spying

50. “It’s Impossible” singer

51. Blanched

52. More than dislike

53. It could take you out of your way, in a plane

54. Modern way to find one’s way

60. Shoe color

61. “___ moment”

62. Strong joe

63. Indirect way to look

66. Victoria’s Secret item

67. Proportionately

71. Wahine accessory

72. Einstein’s birthplace

73. Delicious dish

74. You should be able to find your way here?

83. Abbr. on a stamp

84. Fortify

85. Formerly, USSR

86. Grating cries

88. Discordant

90. Screen type

91. Targeted

94. Natalie Portman’s role in “Goya’s Ghosts”

95. Spanish speaking district

97. Snowball

98. Ancient Peruvian

101. Etiquette maven Vanderbilt

102. Naval investigation show

103. Kind of card

105. Prefix with plane

107. Exactly alike

112. ___ to go

113. Scenic road, e.g.

115. Fish that got lost

116. Minable material

117. Fish delicacy

118. “Topaz” author

119. Lofty pieces of writing

120. Home of “Weekend Edition”

121. Warbler Yoko

122. Word connector

123. Fractions of mins.

124. Counter call

Down:

1. Dock

2. Insurer for military personnel

3. Lion’s share

4. Opposing

5. Calling

6. Calls something different

7. Frittata

8. Like some loads

9. Feeling of love and admiration

10. Ashford of the Track and Field Hall of Fame

11. Painting style

12. “Greatest” boxer

13. Religious

14. Italian tubes

15. Carpentry tool

16. Hey! Over here!

17. Symbol of voracious hunger

21. 66, for one

27. Scandinavian war god

30. Org.

32. Pit

33. Open, in a way

34. Toronto media inits.

35. Thirteen popes

36. Hitchcock’s wife

37. Source

39. Sore spot

40. Goes with Spumanti

42. Exit

43. Land around Lake Victoria

44. Gull cry

46. Lot

48. Bk. before Jeremiah

49. Giant slugger Mel

51. Use a cloth to clean

52. Comic Carvey

55. Airline abbreviation

56. Office PC connection

57. Director Jean-___ Godard

58. They’re expected

59. Introductory words

63. Elvis Costello hit

64. Bill makers

65. First-aid, for one

66. Boring

67. Papal name

68. Hurried

69. Neighbor of Minn.

70. Nutritional fig.

72. Workaholic’s woe

73. Empty

75. Adult female bird

76. M.D.’s specialty

77. West Indian island

78. Singer Turner

79. Real thing

80. NATO member, abbr.

81. Big zero

82. Kind of team

83. Single, prefix

87. ___-Foy, Que.

89. “Beauty ___ the eye …”

90. Having boundaries

91. One who leads a Spartan lifestyle

92. Reserve

93. It holds a yard

96. Reports, in a way

97. Stick out

99. Untrue

100. Sing like Luther

103. Zither’s cousin

104. A hearing of causes

105. Aesthetic wavelength

106. Milan money

107. Markers

108. Get ___ the ground floor

109. Abandon

110. Credit card

111. Unable to find the way

112. Claimed the gold

114. Blinking light, maybe

630 13th Street NE

Got it all: 3BR/3BA, high ceilings, spacious lr/dr, pkg!

ACTIVE: $989,000

Listing Agent: Don Denton (202) 256-1353

308 5th Street SE

4000 SF of Victorian Grace

SOLD: $1.430M

Listing Agents: Don Denton (202) 256-1353 Chuck Burger (202) 258-5316

7 9th Street SE

Timeless 1865 residence offers rare

SOLD: Asking $895,000

Listing Agent: Don Denton (202) 256-1353

101 North Carolina Ave SE #G

Perfect studio for son/daughter starting new career on the Hill! Beats renting!

ACTIVE: $299,000

Listing Agent: Don Denton (202) 256-1353

1330 Massachusetts Ave. SE

Spacious Park location. Cozy patio and parking!

SOLD: $1.250M

Selling Agent: Don Denton (202) 256-1353