MIDCITY MARCH 2013
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G ON-LINE REPORTIN S OF BROKEN METER SEND NOTE TO d•meter@dc.gov
1250 Taylor St. NW Washington, DC 20011 p. 202 545-0515 f. 202 545-0517 www.bridgespcs.org
Serving Pre-K3, Pre-K4, Kindergarten and 1st grade for the 2013-2014 school year
A new grade will be added each year through 5th grade. INFORMATION / OPEN HOUSE SESSIONS ON THURSDAYS:
March 14 from 9:30 am – 10:30 am April 11 & 25 from 9:30 am – 10:30 am You must register to attend, limit of 20 people per session. Call (202) 545-0515 to register.
Application deadline March 15th, 2013. Lottery March 22nd, 2013 Apply for admissions at www.bridgespcs.org or by coming to the school. We are building on our strong foundation as an early childhood program. Come be a founding member of the elementary school!
Program Features: Before Care starting at 7:30 am and after care until 6:00 pm. Small classroom size and well trained staff. Individual planning for each student. Hands-on and project-based curriculum. Bridges Public Charter School is free and open to all DC residents. Tuition paid by non-residents.
CONTENTS MARCH 10
MIDCITY
08 GO SEE DO 10 Calendar out and about
18
18
Insatiable • Jonathan Bardzik
21
Retail Therapy • Mariessa Terrell
22
Jazz Avenues • Steve Monroe
your neighborhood
36
23
The Nose • Anonymous
24
Free Ride • Amanda Abrams
28
District Beat • Martin Austermuhle
30
The Numbers • Ed Lazere & Jessica Fulton
31
E on DC • E. Ethelbert Miller
32
Logan Circles • Mark F. Johnson
33
Shaw Streets • Ralph Brabham
34
Bloomingdale Business • Jazzy Wright
kids and family 36
Kids and Family Notebook • Kathleen Donner
at home 42
Garden Fairy • Sarah McLaughlin
44
Changing Hands • Don Denton
46 Classifieds COVER: Illustration by Jason Yen.
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Hill Rag • Mid City DC • East Of The River • Fagon Community Guides Capital Community News, Inc. 224 7th Street, SE, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20003 202.543.8300 capitalcommunitynews.com EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Melissa Ashabranner • melissaashabranner@hillrag.com
Publisher: Jean-Keith Fagon • fagon@hillrag.com Copyright © 2013 by Capital Community News. All Rights Reserved.
Look for Next Issue of MidCity DC on April 13 Staff Managing Editor: Andrew Lightman • andrew@hillrag.com CFO & Associate Editor: Maria Carolina Lopez • carolina@hillrag.com School Notes Editor: Susan Braun Johnson • schools@hillrag.com Kids & Family Notebook Editor: Kathleen Donner • kathleendonner@gmail.com
BEAUTY, Health& Fitness Patricia Cinelli • fitmiss44@aol.com Ronda Bresnick Hauss, LCSW • quiet_waters_center@yahoo.com Mariessa Terrell • mterrell@sbclawgroup.com Candace Y.A. Montague • writeoncm@gmail.com
Arts, Dining & Entertainment Art: Jim Magner • jjmagner@aol.com Dining: Emily Clark • clapol47@gmail.com Celeste McCall • celeste@us.net Hit the City: Joylyn Hopkins • joylyn@joylynhopkins.com Literature: Karen Lyon • klyon@folger.edu Movies: Mike Canning • mjcanning@verizon.net Music: Jean-Keith Fagon • fagon@hillrag.com Stephen Monroe • samonroe2004@yahoo.com Retail Therapy: Scott Fazzini • scott.fazzini@gmail.com Theater: Barbara Wells • barchardwells@aol.com Travel: Maggie Hall • whitby@aol.com The Wine Guys: Jon Genderson • jon@cellar.com
KIDS & FAMILY Kathleen Donner • kathleendonner@gmail.com Susan Johnson • schools@hillrag.com
Calendar & Bulletin Board Calendar Editor: Kathleen Donner • calendar@hillrag.com, bulletinboard@hillrag.com
COMMENTARY Ethelbert Miller • emiller698@aol.com The Nose • thenose@hillrag.com
General Assignment Martin Austermuhle • martin.austermuhle@gmail.com Maggy Baccinelli • mbaccinelli@gmail.com Dana Bell • dana@hillrag.com Elise Bernard • elise.bernard@gmail.com Ralph Brabham • ralphbrabham@yahoo.com Stephanie Deutsch • scd@his.com Kathleen Donner • kathleendonner@gmail.com Michelle Phipps-Evans • invisiblecolours@yahoo.com Gwyn Jones • gwynjones@aol.com Stephen Lilienthal - stephen_lilienthal@yahoo.com Celeste McCall • celeste@hillrag.com Charnice Milton • charnicem@hotmail.com John H. Muller • jmuller.washingtonsyndicate@gmail.com Alice Ollstein • alice.ollstein@gmail.com Will Rich • will.janks@gmail.com Linda Samuel • indabsamuel@yahoo.com Heather Schoell • schoell@verizon.net Virginia Avniel Spatz • virginia@hillrag.com Michael G. Stevens • michael@capitolriverfront.org Peter J. Waldron • peter@hillrag.com Roberta Weiner • rweiner_us@yahoo.com Jazzy Wright • wright.jazzy@gmail.com Jennifer Zatkowski • jenn@hillrag.com
Society & Events Mickey Thompson • socialsightings@aol.com Homes & Gardens Rindy O’Brien • rindyob@mac.com Derek Thomas • derek@thomaslandscapes.com Judith Capen • judith.capen@architravepc.com HomeStyle: Mark Johnson • mark@hillrag.com Catherine Plume • caplume@yahoo.com
Production/Graphic/web Design Art Director: Jason Yen • jay@hillrag.com Graphic Designer: Kyungmin Lee • lee@hillrag.com Web Master: Andrew Lightman • andrew@hillrag.com Advertising & Sales Account Executive: Kira Means, 202.543.8300 X16 • kira@hillrag.com Account Executive: Jennifer Zatkowski, 202.543.8300 X20 • Jenn@hillrag.com Classified Advertising: Maria Carolina Lopez, 202.543.8300 X12 • carolina@hillrag.com Distribution Distribution Manager: Andrew Lightman Distributors: MediaPoint, LLC Distribution Information: distribution@hillrag.com Deadlines & CONTACTS Advertising: sales@hillrag.com Display Ads: 15th of each month Classified Ads: 10th of each month Editorial: 15th of each month; submissions@hillrag.com Bulletin Board & Calendar: 15th of each month; calendar@hillrag.com, bulletinboard@hillrag.com
We welcome suggestions for stories. Send queries to andrew@hillrag.com. We are also interested in your views on community issues which are published in the Last Word. Please limit your comments to 250 words. Letters may be edited for space. Please include your name, address and phone number. Send Last Word submissions to lastword@hillrag.com. For employment opportunities email jobs@hillrag.com. 6 u midcitydcnews.com
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GO.SEE.DO. WorldPlay: Traditional Music of the World at Hill Center
Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital announces the new series WorldPlay: Traditional Music of the World at Hill Center. Curated by Parker Jayne and Thea Austen, WorldPlay offers a unique collection of artists performing a wide variety of music and discussion about the culture and heritage of music that rarely appears on Capitol Hill. Each concert will feature a half hour, moderated discussion about the history of the culture, heritage, music and performers. Tickets are $15. All concerts are on Saturdays at 3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. Here’s the line-up: Trio Sefardi: Sepharic Music, March 24; Gerdan: Eastern European Music, April 14; Karpouzi Trio: Greek Music, May 19, Children’s Choir of Tblisi: Music from the Republic of Georgia, July 21; Dr. Nadar Majd and the Chakavak Ensemble: Persian Music, September 22; Andrea Hoag, Loretta Kelley and Charlie Pilzer: Scandanavian Music, October 20. Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202549-4172. hillcenterdc.org
trio Sefardi, the first worldPlay concert in march. Photo: Courtesy of the Hill Center
At-Large Candidate Forums
There will be a series of At-Large candidates forums in March and April. Candidates will debate on Wednesday, March 27 at Eastern Senior High School, 6:30-9 p.m. (see page 24 for a complete list of forums). It will be moderated by Sam Ford, WJLA-TV News Reporter. Candidates for the At-Large Council Seat are Anita Bonds, Michael A. Brown, Matthew Frumin, Patrick Mara, Perry Redd, John F. Settles, II, Elissa Silverman and Paul Zukerberg. Monday, April 1, is the last day to register to vote in this special election. For more information about the April 23 special election, call l 202-727-2525 or visit dcboee.org.
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Folger Consort Celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with Dublin: Celtic and Art Music
Folger Consort, the early music ensemble in residence at Folger Shakespeare Library, presents five performances of Dublin: Celtic and Art Music in the Folger’s Elizabethan-style theater, March 15-17. The program samples the rich array of music from Ireland, Scotland and England, and includes pieces for bagpipe, harp, and fiddle. The concert is the fourth production in Folger Consort’s 2012/13 season of City Ayre: Music of City, Court, and Countryside. Folger Consort artistic co-directors Robert Eisenstein (viol) and Christopher Kendall (theorbo) will be joined by the celebrated Irish harpist Siobhán Armstrong, soprano Molly Quinn, in addition to guest instrumentalist David Douglass (violin) and frequent consort collaborator Tom Zajac (multi-instrumentalist). $37. Folger Elizabethan Theatre, 201 East Capitol Street, SE. 202-544-7077. www.folger.edu Folger Consort’s artistic directors (and founders), Robert Eisenstein and Christopher Kendall. Photo: Courtesy of the Folger Shakespeare Library
Searching for the Seventies
“Hitchhiker with his dog, ‘Tripper,’ on U.S. 66. U.S. 66 crosses the Colorado River at Topock.” Charles O’Rear, Yuma County, Arizona, May 1972. Photo: Courtesy of the National Archives
Bad fashion, odd fads, and disco dance music sum up the 1970s for many Americans. But the1970s were much more than leisure suits, streaking, and disco. During the seventies, profound changes took root in American politics, society, environment, and economy. “Searching for the Seventies” takes a new look at the 1970s using remarkable color photographs taken for the Federal photography project called DOCUMERICA (1971-1977). Created by the Environmental Protection Agency, DOCUMERICA was born out of the decade’s environmental awakening, producing striking photographs of many of that era’s environmental problems and achievements, but also captured the era’s trends, fashions, and cultural shifts. On Friday, March 8, the National Archives unveils the photographic exhibition, “Searching for the Seventies: The DOCUMERICA Photography Project.” Located in the Lawrence F. O’Brien Gallery of the National Archives Building, “Searching for the Seventies” is free and open to the public, and runs through September 8, 2013. archives.gov
Shaw Main Streets Annual Meeting
On March 27, 7-9 p.m., come join Shaw Main Streets for an evening celebrating the revitalization of central Shaw’s 7th Street and 9th Street commercial corridors. The Shaw Main Streets Annual Meeting will be held on the 7th floor of the Progression Place office building, 1805 7th Street, NW. The event is free of charge, and no reservations are required. Highlights will include the announcement of the winners of the Best New Shaw Business of 2012 poll, a presentation on the major achievements of the past year and upcoming projects and events, the election of board members, and a closing reception featuring food and beverage from neighborhood businesses. And, of course, the view of the neighborhood and city from this perch above it all. For more information, call 202-265-SHAW or email ShawMainStreetsInc@gmail.com.
Last year’s attendees enjoying the buffet table. Photo: Pleasant P. Mann, Courtesy Shaw Main Streets. Midcity DC | MARCH 2013 u 9
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Grandstand seats are $15. 202-670-0317. dcstpatsparade.com St Patrick’s Day Celebration with FullSet at National Geographic. Mar. 17, 7:00 PM. Washington-area fans of Celtic music know Nat Geo Live is the place to hear great new traditional groups before they become legends. Check out Ireland’s next hot band on the horizon-FullSetrecently named “New Group of the Year” for 2012 by the Live Ireland Music Awards. The band will be touring hot on the heels of their critically acclaimed debut release, Notes at Liberty. $25. nationalgeographic.com Dubliner. Mar 17, 10:00 AM-3:00 AM. Three bands on two stages and giveaways. Full menus served with $10 cover. 4 “F” St. NW. 202-7373773. dublinerdc.com Kelly’s Irish Times. Mar 17, 10:30 AM-3:00 AM. Live Irish music all day. 14 F St. NW. 202-5435433. kellysirishtimesdc.com Molly Malone’s. Mar 17, 8:00 AM-3:00 AM. Live Irish music in the evening. Discounted Irish whiskey and beer. Drink and food specials. 713 Eighth St. SE. 202-547-1222. mollymalonescapitolhillsaloon.com 18th Amendment Bar & Restaurant. Mar 17, 11:00 AM-3:00 AM. Live music and bagpipes. Drink specials, giveaways and prizes throughout the day. 613 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-5433622. 18thdc.com
Dance Exchange artists Shula Strassfeld and Matthew Cumbie in Cassie Meador’s How To Lose a Mountain, to premiere March 16 & 17 at Dance Place. Photo: Zachary Z Handler
How To Lose a Mountain at Dance Place A 500-mile walk, a 150-year old piano, a mountain kept, and a mountain lost. Dance Exchange Artistic Director Cassie Meador examines loss and gain, risk and reward, and the distances travelled by our stories, our stuff, and ourselves, in How To Lose a Mountain. The world premiere will take place March 16 & 17 at Dance Place, 3225 8th St. NE. 202-269-1600. danceplace.org. One year prior to the How To Lose a Mountain world premiere, Meador investigated the resources that power the electricity in her home by walking from Washington, DC to a mountaintop removal site in West Virginia. Along the way, she and Dance Exchange artists slept outdoors, visited power plants, partnered with the US Forest Service to lead movement and outdoor education workshops called “Moving Field Guides,” and collected stories from community members in workshops called “500 Miles/500 Stories.”
ST. PATRICK’S CELEBRATIONS St Patrick’s Day 8K. Mar 10, 9:00 AM, Freedom Plaza. This event offers a great downtown course, a deep awards structure, team competition, a 1K Kids Run, Irish dancing, refreshments, random prizes, and much more. Bring the family for a day of fun and help support Special Olympics DC, Habitat for Humanity & Back on My Feet. $40. 301-871-0400. runwashington.com
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National ShamrockFest ‘13. Mar 16, 1:00-9:00 PM at RFK Stadium grounds. Event features nine musical stages, tented party areas, beer stations, bar-game areas and athletic competitions, craft, food and beverage markets and strolling entertainers and much more. RFK Stadium. shamrockfest.com DC St Patricks Day Parade. Mar 17, noon, Constitution Ave. between Seventh St. and 17th St. NW. The colorful three-hour procession of floats, marching bands, and drill teams will also feature antique bicycles, cars, fire trucks, and Irish wolfhounds.
My Brother’s Place. Mar 17, 11:00 AM-3:00 AM. Food and drink specials. 237 Second St. NW. 202-347-1350. mybrothersplacedc.net Star and Shamrock. Mar 17, 11:00 AM-3:00 PM. Food and drink specials. Live music. 1341 H St. NE. 202-388-3833. starandshamrock.com
EASTER The Great Vigil of Easter at National Cathedral. Mar 30, 8:00 PM. This is the night when Christ broke the bonds of death…and rose victorious from the grave. Tonight we hear the ancient stories of God’s redeeming work, moving from darkness to light, from solemn chant to joyful song, as we celebrate the glorious Resurrection. Intersection of Massachusetts and Wisconsin aves. NW. 202-537-6200. nationalcathedral.org Easter Monday-Celebrating the African American Tradition. Apr 1 (rain or shine), 11:00 AM-4:00 PM. Since 1891, Easter Monday at the National Zoo has been a historic tradition in the African American community. The National Zoo
proudly commemorates this family tradition that has grown to include all families in the metro area. This special event features family activities, a traditional Easter egg hunt, animal demonstrations, live entertainment, field and relay-style games with an animal theme and visits from the Easter Panda. National Zoo, 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW. nationalzoo.si.edu Solemn Easter Vigil Mass at National Shrine. Mar 30, 8:00 PM. National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, 400 Michigan Ave. NE. 202-526-8300. nationalshrine.com Holy Saturday at St. Matthews. Mar 30. Mass at 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. Easter Vigil Mass at 8:00 PM. Cathedral of Saint Matthew the Apostle, 1725 Rhode Island Ave. NW. 202-347-3215. stmatthewscathedral.org Festival Holy Eucharist at National Cathedral. Easter Sunday, Mar 31, 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM (free tickets required). 4:00 PM, Evensong on Easter Day. 5:15 PM, Organ Recital. Intersection of Massachusetts and Wisconsin aves. NW. 202-537-6200. nationalcathedral.org Easter Sunday Mass at National Shrine. Easter Sunday, Mar 31, 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM, Noon, 4:30 PM. Spanish Mass at 2:30 PM. National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. 400 Michigan Ave. NE. 202-5268300. nationalshrine.com Easter Sunrise Service at the Lincoln Memorial. Mar 31, 6:30 AM. A Washington tradition for 34 years-on Easter Sunday morning over 6000 people will gather at the Lincoln Memorial for one of the nation’s largest Sunrise Services, hosted by Capital Church of Vienna, Virginia, Pastor Amos Dodge. As the sun begins to rise over the Capitol dome, the mall will ring with sounds of celebration as Pastor Dodge leads those in attendance, in the hope-filled proclamation and celebration of Easter’s message. Solemnity of the Resurrection of the Lord at St. Matthews. Easter Sunday, Mar 31. Masses at 7:00 AM, 8:30AM, 10:00 AM (english), 11:30 AM, 1:00 PM (en español), 5:30 PM. Cathedral of Saint Matthew the Apostle, 1725 Rhode Island Ave. NW. 202-347-3215. stmatthewscathedral.org National City Christian Church Easter Services. Easter Sunday, Mar 31, 8:30 AM, Gospel; 11:00 AM Traditional; 11:00 En Espanol. 5 Thomas Circle. 202-232-0323. nationalcitycc.org
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Saint John’s Church at Lafayette Park Easter Services. Easter Sunday, Mar 31, 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. Easter music with Brass Quintet and Timpani. 1525 H St. NW. 202-347-8766. stjohns-dc.org
MUSIC AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD Music at The Howard. Mar 10, Israel Vibration, $30; Mar 13, Crowder, $40; Mar 14, El Gran Combo 50th Anniversary Tour, $55; Mar 15, Slick Flick & Rakim, $37; Mar 21, Jefferson Starship, $50; Mar 22, Loose Ends, $30; Mar 23, James Cotton Super Harp, $30; Mar 24, The Afro-Cuban All Stars, $40; Mar 26, Watsky, $15; Mar 30, Tevin Campbell, $32; Apr 4, John Scofield’s Hollowbody Band, $30; Apr 5, Incognito, $40; Apr 6, Shirley Jones of the Jones Girls, $35; Apr 7, Bell Biv Devoe, $42; Apr 9, Bomba Estero, $20; Apr 10, Immortal Technique, $22; Apr 11. Netsky, $25; Apr 12, DJ BL3ND LIVE, $25. Howard Theatre, 620 T St. NW. 202-8032899. thehowardtheatre.com Sir James Galway Master Class at Sixth and I. Mar 18, 10:00 AM. The living legend of the flute is regarded as both the supreme interpreter of the classical flute repertoire and a consummate entertainer whose appeal crosses all musical boundaries. Sir Galway and Lady Jeanne Galway lead a master class the day after their main stage recital at the Kennedy Center. $10. Sixth & I Historic Synagogue, 600 I St. NW. 202-408-3100. sixthandi.org Luce Unplugged with kindlewood. Mar 24, 1:30-3:30 PM. A concert series, Luce Unplugged invites local musicians to perform after staff-led art talks. Free coffee or tea available. Self described “dream folk-rock” trio kindlewood performs after an art talk on a piece selected by the group. The trio is currently busy at work on a new album, which comes on the heels of the success of their 2011 album Desiderium. American Art Museum, 8th and F sts. NW. americanart.si.edu Stephane Wrembel and His Band at Sixth and I. Mar 24, 7:00 PM. To say that Stephane Wrembel has already had a remarkable career would be an understatement. This virtuoso guitarist from France has just begun to make his mark as one of the most original guitar voices in contemporary music. He composed the theme track to Woody Allen’s Oscar-nominated film, Midnight in Paris, which he performed during the 2012 Academy Awards. Wrembel has headlined at Lincoln Center, played major festivals, and shared stages with everyone from Elvis Costello to Patti Smith to The Roots. $25. Sixth & I Historic Synagogue, 600 I St. NW. 202-408-3100. sixthandi.org Sunday Gospel Brunch Featuring the Harlem Gospel Choir. Every Sunday, 12:30-2:00 PM. $30-$45. The Howard Theatre, 620 T St. NW. 202-803-2899. thehowardtheatre.com Tuesday Concert Series at Church of the Epiphany. Every Tuesday, 12:10 PM. The Tuesday Concert Series is a major outreach program of Epiphany to the people of downtown Washington. High-quality music--mostly classical, but with occasional performances of folk and
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traditional music--is presented here every Tuesday. Talented artists from all over greater Washington, and frequently from around the country and world, seek out Epiphany’s fine acoustics, exceptional musical instruments and reliable and appreciative audience. Programs in the Tuesday Concert Series are free, but they encourage attendees to make a contribution in support of the performers of each event, who receive as payment only what the day’s audience contributes. 1317 G St. NW. 2023472635. epiphanydc.org National City Christian Church Organ Concerts. Every Friday, 12:15-1:15 PM. Free. 5 Thomas Cir. NW. 202-232-0323. nationalcitycc.org Steinway Series of classical music concerts at American Art Museum. Second Sunday, 3:00 PM The Steinway Series is a classical music concert that features the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s refurbished Steinway Concert Grand piano. Free. McEvoy Auditorium, Lower Level American Art Museum (between Seventh and Nineth and and F and G sts. NW.) 202-633-1000. americanart.si.edu “Take Five” (free jazz at the American Art Museum). Third Thursday, 5:00-7:00 PM. Smithsonian American Art Museum, (Great Hall on the 3rd floor), Eighth and F sts. NW. 202633-1000. AmericanArt.si.edu
THEATER AND FILM AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD Hughie at Shakespeare Theatre. Through Mar 17. Shakespeare Theatre, Lansburgh Theatre, 450 7th St. NW. 202-547-1122. shakespearetheatre.org
The SBRC Presents its “DC Bar Pro Bono Clinic” March 13, 2013 • 5:00 pm-7:30 pm, Room E-4302 If you are an existing or an aspiring small business owner, come and meet one-on-one with attorneys at this brief advice clinic. You can get information on business formation, contracts, leases, taxes or any other questions you may have related to small business legal issues.
The SBRC Presents its “DC Farmers’ Market Seminar” March 6 & 30, 2013 • 9:00 am-4:00 pm, Room E-200 If you are a Farmers’ Market Vendor, or are interested in learning about the District of Columbia‘s current rules and regulations, then it is imperative that you attend this free training. We will provide training for ALL Farmers’ Market vendors who sell food of any kind (baked goods, eggs, meat, fruits and vegetables), or use a scale for vending in the District of Columbia. The purpose of this training is to educate current and new Farmers’ Market vendors of the regulatory inspection processes and of any new document requirements that will begin to take place at the farmers’ markets.
DCRA Will Be Closed Thursday, April 11, 2013 for Offsite Staff Training DCRA offices will reopen at 8:30 am on Friday, April 12, 2013.
Race at Theatre J. Through Mar 17. The latest work by the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Glengarry Glen Ross ruthlessly examines guilt, betrayal and racial posturing. Two male lawyers are called to defend a wealthy white client charged with the rape of a black woman, while their female associate betrays an agenda of her own. Theater J, 1529 16th St. NW. 202-518-9400. washingtondcjcc.org Metamorphoses at Arena. Through Mar 17. Lost love, dangerous passion and reunited soul mates wrestle with fate in Tony Award winner Mary Zimmerman’s Broadway smash, Metamorphoses. Back in DC for the first time since her awe-inspiring productions of The Arabian Nights and Candide,Zimmerman’s interpretation of Ovid’s Metamorphoses proves romance never goes out of styleeven for the Gods. Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SW. 202-488-3300. arena-stage.org
Available services: Online applications for preparing building permit applications, for getting supplemental and postcard permits, and for scheduling permit-related inspections will be available. To schedule your permit inspection - call 442-9557 and follow the prompts (more information is available on DCRA’s website).
In Partnership w/ The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)
The SBRC Presents its “Smart Money for Small Business 8 Week Workshop” Week 1: Financial Management – March 21, 2013 Week 2: Credit Reporting – March 28, 2013 Week 3: Banking Service – April 4, 2013 Week 4: Insurance – April 11, 2013 Week 5: Organization Types – April 18, 2013 Week 6: Tax Planning and Reporting – April 25, 2013 Week 7: Recordkeeping – May 2, 2013 Week 8: Time Management – May 16, 2013 Note: Each session will be held in room E-4302; from 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
To register for the SBRC workshops go to: https:bizdc.ecenterdirect.com For assistance with registering for the SBRC workshops call: 202-442-4538
Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs 1100 4th Street, SW Washington, DC 20024
The Motherfucker with the Hat at Studio. Extended through Mar 24. An unfamiliar hat in Jackie’s living room threatens his relationship, his parole, and his fledgling sobriety in this intoxicating and cheerfully vulgar look at the complicated recovery from love and other addictions. Studio Theatre, 1501 14th St. NW. 202-332-3300. studiotheatre.org
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Hello, Dolly at Ford’s. Mar 15-May 18. The production features Broadway’s Nancy Opel in the title role and Edward Gero as Horace Vandergelder. Ford’s Theatre, 511 10th St. NW. fords.org Mart T and Lizzy K at Arena. Mar 15-Apr 18. Writer-director Tazewell Thompson stitches together an insider’s look at the unlikely friendship between First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln and her talented seamstress, the successful freed slave Elizabeth Keckly. As one woman’s skilled hands work overtime, creating the most beautiful garments of her career, the other’s reality continues to slip ever further from her grasp. Old wounds and new recriminations explode in this riveting drama about loss, love and the importance of promises, both kept and broken. This world premiere drama is the first commission of Arena Stage’s American President’s Project. Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SW. 202488-3300. arena-stage.org A Behanding in Spokane at the Keegan. Mar 16-Apr 7. A mysterious stranger is on the hunt for his missing appendage, and two bungling crooks-and a hotel clerk with an aversion to gunfire-are caught up in his dangerous machinations. Scathing and hilarious, Behanding is another dazzlingly macabre tale from the brilliant, twisted mind of Martin McDonagh. Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church St. NW. 703-8920202. keegantheatre.com 4000 Miles at Studio. Mar 20-Apr 6. A compassionate and unsentimental drama about the life-changing relationship between a grandson who can’t face his life and a grandmother who is starting to forget hers. Studio Theatre, 1501 14th St. NW. 202-332-3300. studiotheatre.org American Utopias at Woolly. Mar 25-Apr 21. Mike Daisey takes us all over the map to pursue the story: from Disney World and its nostalgic theme park perfection, to the drugfueled anarchic excesses of Burning Man, to Zuccotti Park, where in the unlikeliest place the Occupy Wall Street movement was born. Gun-play, giant glittery dildos, raving animatronic presidents, and brutal police actions come together to paint the landscape of our new American dream. After record-breaking performances in New York, Chicago, and Boston, American Utopias returns to where it all began at Woolly Mammoth. Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, 641 D St. NW. 202-3933939. woollymammoth.net Coriolanus at Shakespeare Theater. Mar 28June 2. A mighty hero, Caius Martius, earns the new name of “Coriolanus” for his triumphs. However his inflexible self-belief and contempt for popular rule cause him to be condemned as a traitor and sent into exile. Desiring revenge against the Romans who banished him, he befriends his blood enemy, Aufidius, to launch an assault on his beloved city. Rome, in its terror, pleads with Coriolanus to end his crusade for vengeance. Sidney Harman Hall, 610 F St. NW. 202-547-1122. shakespearetheatre.org Andy and the Shadows at Theater J. Apr 3-May 5. A comedy about family with Freudian hallucinations and pre-marital angst, from Theater J’s Artistic Director and award winning playwright. Zipping from one rite-of-passage
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(and time period) to the next, Andy Glickstein is the filmmaking son of Holocaust refugees looking back at the wild weekend of his engagement to Sarah-as party plans fall apart; a famous film flop is hilariously re-made; duendé is discovered; and two vulnerable, differently indomitable parents and their pasts become more deeply understood. Theater J, 1529 16th St. NW. 202-518-9400. washingtondcjcc.org National Theatre’s Spring Cinema Series (films of Montgomery Clift). Series begins Mar 25, Mondays, 6:30 PM. Free admission. Tickets required: first come-first seated. Tickets distributed 1/2 hour prior to screening. One ticket per person in line. Food and drink are not allowed. The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. 202-783-3372. nationaltheatre.org
LITERARY EVENTS AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD Nine On the Ninth Monthly Poetry Series. Mar 9, 9:00 PM. Nine On The Ninth is a now legendary monthly poetry series that debuted in October 2005. It’s a feature driven format, which means, the feature opens the show and the open mic follows. They do this to make sure you get the full effect of each and every specially selected feature they bring to the Langston Room stage. BUSBOYS @ 14th & V. 2021 14th St. NW. 202-387-7638. busboysandpoets.com Author Event, Barbara Miner, Busboys and Poets. Mar 11, 6:30-8:00 PM. Teaching for Change’s Busboys and Poets Bookstore welcomes Barbara Miner Interviewed by Bill Fletcher, Jr. and discussing her new book, “Lessons from the Heartland: A Turbulent HalfCentury of Public Education in an Iconic American City”. BUSBOYS @ 14th & V. 2021 14th St. NW. 202-387-7638. busboysandpoets.com Ezekiel Emanuel In conversation with Corby Kummer. Mar 28, 7:00 PM. The mayor of Chicago, a Hollywood super-agent, and a leading bioethicist and oncologist also happen to be brothers born into a family of modest means. So, what did Ezekiel, Rahm, and Ari’s mom put in the cereal? In Brothers Emanuel: A Memoir of an American Family, eldest brother “Zeke” explains the path Ari took from an entrepreneurial kid who suffered from dyslexia to the real-life model for the character of Ari Gold on Entourage; the path (quietest child!) Rahm took from underachieving student and accomplished ballet dancer to American politics; and the path Zeke himself took from geeky high school debater to bioethicist and special advisor for health policy in the Obama administration. Sixth & I Historic Synagogue, 600 I St. NW. 202-408-3100. sixthandi.org Tuesday Night Open Mic Poetry at Busboys. Every Tuesday Night, 9:00-11:00 PM. For two hours, audiences can expect a diverse chorus of voices and a vast array of professional spoken word performers, open mic rookies, musicians, and a different host every week. BUSBOYS @ 14th & V. 2021 14th St. NW. 202387-7638. busboysandpoets.com
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Wednesday Night Open Mic Poetry at Busboys. Every Wednesday, 9:00-11:00 PM. For two hours, audiences can expect a diverse chorus of voices and a vast array of professional spoken word performers, open mic rookies, musicians, and a different host every week. USBOYS @ 5TH & K, 1025 5th St. NW. 202-7892227. busboysandpoets.com
AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD March 2013 Exhibition at Hillyer Art Space. Through Mar 29. Featuring paintings by Spanish artist Narciso Maisterra, mix media works by South Korean artist Jungmin Park, and our NIN9 members’ gallery will feature new works by Garth Fry. 9 Hillyer Ct. NW. 202-338-0680. artsandartists.org Foundry Gallery March 2013 Solo Exhibit “Bits and Pieces.” Through Mar 31. A full show of partial things. Photographs by Sarah Alexander Foundry Gallery, 1314 18th St. NW. 202-4630203. foundrygallery.org Steve Alderton’s ICONS at Touchstone. Through Mar 31. For DCbased artist Steve Alderton, the human subjects of ICONS, his new figurative series, are less like realistic representations than they are loose components of a still life painting. Alderton strips his subjects down; the nonessential is cast off, the self is bared whole. As a result, subjects rendered impressionistic in paints transcend the merely visual to reveal what Alderton the artist believes is the human essence: form and spirit. Touchstone Gallery, 901 New York Ave. NW. 202-347-2787. touchstone.com Studio Gallery Solo Show: soulprint Angelika Wamsler. Through Mar 23. Here are the happenings of your life, the memories printed on your mind, the story you tell. Your thoughts weave them together, making sense of them, keeping the picture alive and colorful, connecting one memory with another. And then there are the marks you get by living your life, the imprints on your soul, the ghost prints of your memories, solely visible to a non-conscious you: fragile and true, pointing to another reality, revealing who you are, fulfilling your call. Studio Gallery, 2108 R St. NW. 202-232-8734. studiogallerydc.com Kurt Godwin “Through the Trees”. Through Apr 13. An exhibition of new paintings by VCU art professor Kurt Godwin, one of the DC area’s most accomplished artists. Cross Mackenzie Gallery, 2026 R St, NW. 202-333-7970. crossmackenzie.com Zenith Gallery. Through Apr 27. Featuring the Sculpture of Paul Martin Wolff and Paintings by Bradley Stevens. 1111 Pennsylvania Ave NW. 202-783-2963. zenithgallery.com Reflections in Washington at WVSA ARTiculate Gallery. WVSA ARTiculate Gallery, 1100 16th St. NW. vsadc.org
MARKETS Fresh Tuesdays at Eastern Market. Every Tuesday, 3:00-7:00 PM. Tuesday afternoon farmers’ line of fresh produce. Eastern Market, 200 block of Seventh St. SE. 202-698-5253. easternmarket-dc.com Union Market. Wednesday-Friday, 11:00 AM-8:00 PM; SaturdaySunday, 8:00 AM-8:00 PM. The newly-opened Union Market is an artisanal, curated, year-round food market featuring over 40 local vendors. 1309 Fifth St. NE. 301-652-7400. unionmarketdc.com Eastern Market. Daily except Mondays and important holidays. Weekdays, 7:00 AM-7:00 PM; Saturdays, 7:00 AM-5:00 PM; Sundays, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. Flea market and arts and crafts market open Saturdays and Sundays, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM. Eastern Market is Washington’s last continually operated “old world” market. On weekends the market area comes alive with farmers bringing in fresh produce, craft and flower vendors, artists, a flea market and street musicians. 200 block of Seventh St. SE. 202-698-5253. easternmarket-dc.com
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Dupont Circle Farmers Market. Sundays year round (rain or shine), 9:00 AM-1:00 PM. The Wall Street Journal and The Financial Times of London named the market one of the top farmers’ markets in the country. During the peak season, there are more than 30 farmers offering fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, cheeses, fruit pies, breads, fresh pasta, cut flowers, potted plants, soaps and herbal products. 20th St. and Mass. Ave NW, 1500 block of 20th St. NW (between Mass. Ave. and Q St. in the adjacent parking lot of PNC Bank). 202-362-8889. freshfarmmarket.org
The Hills Are Alive 5K & 10K. Mar 23, 8:00 AM, Fort Dupont Park. This is the toughest 5K & 10K in Washington DC. The course is made up of hills, trails, and more hills. All Proceeds To Help Fund The DC Running Clubs Six Month Childhood Obesity Program. $30-$40. 240-472-9201. dcrunningclub.com
Georgetown Flea Market. Sundays year around (except in the case of very inclement weather), 8:00 AM- 4:00 PM. The crowd is as diverse as the items for sale! Antiques, collectibles, art, furniture, rugs, pottery, china, jewelry, silver, stained glass, books and photographs are an example of the available items. 1819 35th St. NW. 202-775-3532. or georgetownfleamarket.com
National’s Ballpark Tours. Wednesday-Sunday (non-game days), 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM. On day of night-time home games, tours at 10:30 AM. Take the Nationals Park Ballpark Tour for a behindthe-scenes look at Nationals Park. Over the course of an hour and fifteen minutes you will visit the PNC Diamond Club, the Lexus Presidents Club, the Stars & Stripes Club, luxury suites, the Shirley Povich Media Center, Nationals dugout and Nationals clubhouse. Throw a pitch in the Nationals bullpen. $12-$15. All proceeds from Nationals Park Tours will be donated to the Nationals Dream Foundation. washington.nationals.mlb.com
SPORTS, DANCE AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Washington Wizards Basketball. Mar 9, 13, 15, 16, 25, 31 and Apr 2 and 6. Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. 202-397-SEAT. nba. com/wizards Georgetown 10 Miler. Mar 9, 9:30 AM. Starts at the Georgetown, Capital Cresent Trail. 240-472-9201. dcrunningclub.com DC Tap Jam at Busboys and Poets. Mar 10, 6:00-8:00 PM. Lace up your taps, select a song, the host will introduce you, and the floor is yours. Come dance, eat, and have fun. Poets, Singers, and Musicians are welcome to join in! Not a dancer, but instead a lover of dance and music; you are welcome too. Busboys and Poets, 5th and K, NW. busboysandpoets.com Washington Capitals Ice Hockey. Mar 10, 12, 17, 26 and Apr 4. Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. 202-628-3200. capitals.nhl.com Ice Skating at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden. Through mid-Mar (depending on the weather). Monday through Thursday, 10:00 AM-9:00 PM; Friday and Saturday, 10:00 AM11:00 PM; Sunday, 11:00 AM-9:00 PM. View magnificent works of sculpture while skating in the open air and enjoying music from the state-of-the-art sound system. $7 for adults, $6 for children 12 and under, students with ID and seniors 50 and over. Skate rental is $3. Seventh St. and Constitution Ave. NW. 202-2893361. nga.gov/ginfo/skating Canal Park Ice Rink. Through mid-Mar (depending on the weather). Monday-Friday, noon-9:00 PM; Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:00 PM; Sunday 10:00 AM-7:00 PM. Adult fee is $8; children, seniors (55+) and military fees are $7. Skate rental i $3. On Tuesdays, two can skate for the price of one from 4:00-6:00 PM. The park is at Second and M sts. SE, one block from the Navy Yard Metro (New Jersey Avenue exit). canalparkdc.org. Public Skating at Fort Dupont Ice Arena. Fridays, noon-1:50 PM; Saturdays, 11:15 AM-12:15 PM. Dress for warmth and safety. A helmet or knit hat is strongly recommended (loaner helmets are available). $5. $4 for kids and seniors. $3 for skate rental. Fort Dupont Ice Arena, 3779 Ely Pl. NE. 202-584-5007. fdia.org SunTrust Rock ‘n’ Roll USA Marathon. Mar 16. This is the inaugural SunTrust Rock ‘n’ Roll USA Marathon & CareFirst Rock ‘n’ Roll USA Half Marathon. Celebrate the history and culture of our nation’s capital as you run alongside the Potomac River, the National Mall, and some of our country’s most majestic monuments. runrocknroll.competitor.com Spring 5K. Mar 16, 8:00 AM. Starts at Hains Point, 927 Ohio Dr SW (East Potomac Park). 703-486-1466. racepacket.com Tidal Basin 3K Monthly Run. Mar 20, noon (third Wednesday of each month). This run is free and informal. West Potomac Park (meet on Ohio Dr. at West Basin Dr., near the Tourmobile stand). 703-505-3567. dcroadrunners.org
Spring Training Game -Nats vs Yankees. Mar 29, 2:05 PM, at Nationals Park. (Home Opener, Apr 1, vs. Marlins.) washington. nationals.mlb.com
DC Rollergirls. Mar 30, 4:00 PM. (Doors open at 3:00 p.m.) Tickets are $12 for ages 12 and up, $6 for children 6-11, and free for kids 5 and under. Tickets are available in advance at ticketmaster. com or at the door on bout day. Individuals with a valid military ID can purchase tickets for $10 at the door. Bouts are at DC Armory. dcrollergirls.com Woodrow Wilson Bridge Half Marathon. Oct 6. Registration open. 703-587-4321. wilsonbridgehalf.com Marine Corps Marathon Registration. Register online beginning Mar 27 at marinemarathon.com. Marathon is Sunday, Oct. 27.
CIVIC LIFE WMATA Performance Oversight Hearing. Mar 15, 1:00 PM in room 120 of the John A. Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. For anybody who wishes to testify, contact Rob Hawkins, Legislative Director of the Office of Councilmember Bowser at 202724-8052 or at rhawkins@dccouncil.us. Smart Money for Small Business 8 Week Workshop. All workshops are from 1-2 p.m. in room E-4302, Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, 1100 4th St. SW. Classes scheduled are Mar 21, Financial Management; Mar 28, Credit Reporting; Apr 4, Banking Service; Apr 11, Insurance; Apr 18, Organization Types; Apr 25,Tax Planning and Reporting; May 2, Recordkeeping; and May 16, Time Management. To register, go to bizdc.ecenterdirect. com. For help with registering, call 202-442-4538. Grosso Near You (informal) Meeting. Fourth Thursday, 8:009:30 AM, Big Bear Cafe, 1700 1st St. NW. The meetings will provide the opportunity for constituents to bring ideas and issues directly to Councilmember Grosso as part of an effort to make the DC Council more accessible. ANC 1A. Second Wednesday, 7:00 PM. Harriet Tubman Elementary School, 3101 13th St. NW. 202-588-7278. anc1a.org ANC 1B. First Thursday, 7:00 PM. Reeves Center, 2000 14th St. NW (second floor). 202-870-4202. anc1b.org ANC 1B11. Second Monday, 7:00 PM. LeDroit Senior Building (basement community room), 2125 Fourth St. NW. 202-481-3462. www.anc1b.org ANC 1C. First Wednesday, 7:00 PM. Mary’s Center for Maternal and Child Health, 2355 Ontario Rd. NW. 202-332-2630. anc1c.org ANC 1D. Third Tuesday, 7:00 PM. 3166 Mount Pleasant St. NW. 202-462-8692. anc1d.org ANC 2C. First Wednesday, 6:30-8:30 PM. Watha T. Daniel Library, 1630 Seventh St. NW (new location). 202-682-1633. anc2C.org. u
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out and about
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by Jonathan Bardzik
Desperately Seeking Soup
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old weather sent us in search of soup. Thick and hearty, rich and brothy. We needed a reprieve from DC’s damp winter days. We found great soup, but along the way....
Come for the Soup, Stay for the Pork Belly Pizza
Ulah Bistro (1214 U St. NW, www.ulahbistro. com) has been on my list to try for a while. From the owner of Tunnicliff ’s on the Hill and Station 4 in Southwest, Ulah feels as comfortable in your suit right from the office as it does in your good jeans. I walked in to a warm greeting and tempting look at the menu from manager Kathleen Bohrer. My friend Greg arrived and we sat down to take the menu out for a spin by ordering far too much food. We started light with a bowl of gratineèd French onion soup and a roasted pork belly pizza from their wood-fired oven. My definition of good French onion soup is rich with slow caramelized onions and hours-long steeped stock. It gets a sharp balance from gruyere, melted down over the sides of the bowl. A splash of brandy or sherry gives depth to balance the caramelized sweetness. Ulah’s did not fail me. However, it was eclipsed by the pizza that came next. A crisp brick oven crust was topped with caramelized onions, gorgonzola cheese, sweet fig preserves, bright, peppery arugula, and, of course, pork belly. Unlike newsboy hats, this darling of the hipster scene just never gets old. Boxing up half the pizza, at Kathleen’s suggestion we next ordered the braised lamb fettuccini. The slow-cooked lamb shank was tender and 18 u midcitydcnews.com
gamey, paired perfectly with a port wine reduction and balanced by the sharp bite from curls of parmesan cheese. I’d love to tell you that the leftover pizza tasted just as good the next day, but we ate it as soon as we returned home.
Come for the Soup, Stay for the Empanadas
The next day I met a friend at Union Market (1309 5th St. NE, www.unionmarketdc.com) for a cup of coffee (Peregrine Espresso, if you’re wondering. www.peregineespresso.com). Walking toward DC Empanadas, I was waved over from behind the counter, by my friend Mikey Torres. In addition to managing their stall at Union Market, Chef Mikey makes all the soups they sell both there and from their food trucks. That week he had cooked up a batch of tom kha – spicy Thai coconut milk soup – one of my favorites. But Mikey’s was unlike any I had tasted before. The tom kha I typically eat is a rather coarse, but comforting, battle between rich, sweet coconut milk and spicy Thai chilies. This was far more subtle and complex. The balance of heat and fat was delicate: galangal, lemon grass, kafir lime leaf, and nam pla – fish sauce – gave this soup elegant depth. My husband Jason knows that I would eat Asian food every day if I could, but I’ll have to wait a little while for another bowl. DC Empanada’s food trucks serve a different soup every week. Mikey’s repertoire includes Mexican tortilla soup, shrimp gumbo, and lamb chili. The menu changes seasonally and with the weather. Cold, wet week? Expect something hearty and rib-sticking. The small pies DC Empanadas has built their name on also change weekly and seasonally. If you’ve got to have their
basics – beef, pork, chicken, vegetarian, and cheese – you can always find them at Union Market. Founded by Guatemalan-born Anna and her husband, Shawn Leis, the business began with a food truck that continues to circulate DC each week. The locations and menu are available on Twitter.
Ulah crowd: Ulah offers a friendly welcome whether suited up from the office or going casual in your good jeans.
casual
@DCEmpanadas tweeted out from Massachusetts Avenue and North Capitol with vegetarian and shrimp teriyaki options for Lenten dining.
Come for the Beer, Stay for the Soup
It had been far too long since Mikey and I had gotten to sit down and catch up, so we booked a dinner date with our husbands for the following week. Our first stop was for a drink at Bistro Bohem (600 Florida Ave. NW, www.bistrobohem.com). Jason and I met Mikey’s husband Dan and ordered impossibleto-pronounce beers and wines from countries too poor to afford vowels. Charming bartender Daniel graciously smiled through our butchered pronunciations. With soup on the brain, I ordered a bowl of borscht off the daily specials. As we’ve experienced with their menu before, it was hearty peasant food, delicious and earthy, with large pieces of pork and cabbage, almost a stew. This is exactly what you want to walk into on a damp, cold winter day.
Come for Whatever They Feel Like Serving. Stay.
Running late from hand-shaping hundreds of wontons for a Chinese New Year soup, Mikey met us at Thai Xing (pronounced “crossing,” across the street at 515 Florida Ave. NW, www.thaixing.com). It’s not immediately clear how to enter the restaurant, located in a row house, but the awkwardness of opening a door and hitting the back of somebody’s chair is totally worth it. Chef and owner Taw Vigsittaboot’s restaurant has a different menu each night: whatever he feels like cooking. Except for some nights offering fish and others fish or vegetarian dishes, you have no choices.
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202.543.8300 X16 Midcity DC | MARCH 2013 u 19
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A delicious curry dish Thai Xing
You can’t even order a drink, which we discovered when they set glasses and a pitcher of water on the table. Our table was in the front window: low stools and a divan comfortably huddled around a coffee table. We were asked if we wanted fish, and the dishes began to appear. The tom kha was delicious, hearty and simple (but I’ll take Mikey’s sophisticated take first, any day!). The soup was followed by a papaya salad, bright citrus balanced with earthy, sweet peanut. Our waiter mumbled the name of the next dish, but we all decided that it was the Thai fish version of chicken nuggets. Next up? A whole fish. Pompano is oily and tastes like the ocean. It’s not for sissies, but it won’t slap you upside the head like mackerel. Dan deftly filleted the fish and we enjoyed the perfectly cooked and seasoned meat. Two tofu dishes proved that tofu does not need to suck, and set the stage for the best dish of the night. I would miss the season finale of “Downton Abbey” for another plate of their pumpkin curry. Large, sweet chunks of squash were coated in a rich, spicy coconut milk sauce, lightened with fresh basil, bright with red curry 20 u midcitydcnews.com
paste. It was a hearty winter dish that never felt heavy. This may be why the good Lord put pumpkins on this earth.
The Punchline
We spent a month searching out soups. DC Empanadas came out clearly on top with their elegant take on tom kha. Ulah Bistro made us forget all about soup with their pork belly pizza, while Bistro Bohem made us forget the cold night with cold beer. Thai Xing made us forget our already tired New Year’s resolutions about serving two couples enough food for four families. The best moment of our gluttonous night was the bill. The entire evening at Thai Xing was $30 a head. With fat and happy wallets we headed back to Daniel for another drink. Jonathan Bardzik is a demo chef and food writer in Washington, DC. When fresh produce returns to Eastern Market you can find him cooking outside each Saturday morning. To find out what Jonathan and his husband Jason eat at home when they are not dining go to his blog, www. whatihaventcookedyet.com, or his Facebook page of the same name. u
RETAIL THERAPY by Mariessa Terrell, photos James Terrell
Treasury: 1843 14th Street, NW
FASHIONETTE QUERY 104: My boyfriend’s new job with the World Bank has him headed for Reagan National twice a month. What can I do to ensure I am not out of sight and mind? SIMONE: Try gifting him a vintage dopp kit from Treasury. Instead of filling it with disposable razors and Kiel’s face balm, add a monogramed handkerchief scented with your perfume. And don’t forget to replace the silverframed Ginger Rogers photograph with a pinup version of you. Et voila... personal face time!
Flowers on Fourteenth: 1718 14th Street NW
FASHIONETTE QUERY 105: DC’s winters are so dreary that I am thinking of getting a teeny tiny doggy to bring some life into my walkup. The only problem is my job. I am a second-year associate with no time for promenades or thrice daily feedings. Plan B? SIMONE: Forget about puppy love for now and opt for a bit of greenery. According to Delores at Flowers on 14th Street, teeny tiny terrariums are the newest way to add life to the home front. All you need is your widest vase, pebbles from Rock Creek, evergreen moss, and several succulents (think aloe vera, agave, and sedum). The resulting menagerie is not only hearty (it can actually thrive on DC tap water twice a month), but is also low cost ($25-35). Now you can surround yourself with still-life forms in every room for next to nothing.
Vintage face time (Treasury vintage dopp kit, shawl, and visor)
Home Rule: 1807 14th Street NW
FASHIONETTE QUERY 106: Despite my best efforts I am habitually late for most appointments. I have been told to set my watch 30 minutes ahead. But I am always misplacing it. Any low-cost options? SIMONE: A pop of color may be just what you need to keep up with your timepiece. Home Goods offers a rainbow of inexpensive ($29.99) Winky Slap watches with interchangeable plastic bands. Find them along with magnetic neighborhood alarm clocks to the right of the artisan checkout counter. Artist and co-owner Rod Glover created the counter out of shards of the original shop window shattered during the 1968 riots. Tick tock! No time like the present to make every minute count!
Passport: 2003 11th Street NW
FASHIONETTE QUERY 107: I was not able to attend London Fashion Week this year. And watching Style.com streaming presentations is nothing like the real thing. Any suggestions on where I can find a UK fashion experience in town? SIMONE: Everyone, including Anna Wintour, knows that real style emanates upwards from the street. For a London viewpoint, we recommend popping over to Passport for an interesting mix of High Street-inspired multicolor party dresses perfect for spring 2013 and beyond. London-born proprietor KC (Kourosh Chitsaz) knows what he is doing. He designed his boutique to resemble a flat replete with full bar and fireplace. Fashion, libations, and conversation. What is more British than that?
Teeny tiny terrarium
Tick tock (Home Rule watches and alarm clocks)
Euro chic
Mariessa Terrell, aka Simone Butterfly, Fashion Investigator, does her sleuthing at yoohoodarling.com and @SimoneBtrfly. u Midcity DC | MARCH 2013 u 21
out and about
+ Music
Jazz Avenues by Steve Monroe Women in Jazz “On the Radar”
The Washington Women in Jazz Festival is coming back for its third year, thanks to pianist, composer, bandleader, and all-around impresario Amy K. Bormet. Maybe the time has gone when, as Capitalbop.com put it, “this city’s many expert female musicians too often fly under the radar – as is frequently the case in the male-dominated greater jazz world.” Or maybe not. Maybe there is still much need for a Women’s History Month and a spotlight on the Washington Women in Jazz Festival every March, as well as the Kennedy Center’s Mary Lou Williams women in jazz event each May. “We are digging deeper into women in jazz history with Leigh Pilzer’s concert of early jazz women, while looking to the future and expanding our Young Artist Contest to a Saturday afternoon prime slot in the festival,” says Bormet. “We are also stretching into new instrumentation with cellist and composer Janel Leppin’s chamber works at the Bohemian Caverns.” The festival has a preview on March 4, with vocalist Integriti Reeves and Bormet on piano, at the American Art Museum. It has its main run during March 21-27, including the opening night with Miller and the WWJF All Stars: Sarah Hughes and Leigh Pilzer (saxophones), Melissa Gardner (trombone), Amy K. Bormet (piano), and Karine Chapdelaine (bass) at the Atlas Performing Arts Center, with other performances at various venues. Pianist Geri Allen, a Howard University graduate and former professor, and 22 u midcitydcnews.com
Pianist Amy K. Bormet, shown with her band mates during last year’s festival, presents her third annual Washington Women in Jazz Festival this month, March 21-27, at various venues.
Bormet’s mentor, plays at the Atlas on March 27. See washingtonwomeninjazz.com for details. “This year builds upon the foundations of the last two festivals and strengthens the greater jazz community of Washington DC,” says Bormet.
InPerson...Carol Morgan
A blend of topnotch chops, a little wit, a lot of humor, a lot of swinging, some bebop and some free jazz and edgy jazz all made up the Carol Morgan Quartet’s entertaining set at the Atlas last month. Morgan is a New York-based trumpeter who plays hot and spicy but also swings with the best of them. She appeared with Matt Wilson, drums, Martin Wind, bass, and Joel Frahm, tenor saxophone. The group impressed an appreciative crowd with tunes like “Blue Boogie,” “Nica’s Dream,” and “Let’s Get Lost.”
InPerson...MAJF IV
Thanks to saxophonist and educator Paul Carr, the Howard University product who found time to
deliver a blistering set of music one night with organist Pat Bianchi and friends, the Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival last month was big fun at the Hilton in Rockville. Top performances included those by pianists Larry Willis and Orrin Evans, vocalists Gregory Porter and Sharon Clark, saxophonists Tim Warfield and Bobby Watson, organists Joey DeFrancesco and Akiko Tsuruga, bluesman Linwood Taylor, the Howard University Jazz Ensemble, and groups including the Blues Alley Youth Orchestra and several high school bands.
Emy Tseng’s CD, and Others
Check out “Sonho,” the debut recording by Emy Tseng, an area vocalist who specializes in Brazilian lullabies but also standards, and another debut by former Howard University Jazz Ensemble saxophonist Elijah Balbed, who blows some hot bop on “Checking In.” Then there is saxophonist Tim Warfield, who attended Howard and plays here regularly, whose new “Eye of the Beholder”
March Highlights: Project Natale, March 8-9, Twins Jazz … Jacob Anderskov/Nordic Cool 2013, March 9, Kennedy Center … Carmen McRae-Jazz Master, March 10, Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum … Paul Pieper Sextet, March 11, Blues Alley … Jimmy Bruno, March 12, Blues Alley … Shakers & Bakers, March 13, Atlas Performing Arts Center … Kristine Key, March 15, Westminster Church … Matthew Stevens, March 15, Bohemian Caverns … Anthony Nelson, March 15-16, Twins Jazz … Jack DeJohnnette, March 16, Kennedy Center … Eri Yamamoto Trio, March 17, Bohemian Caverns … Charles Lloyd, March 22, Kennedy Center … Shannon Gunn & The Bullettes/Washington Women in Jazz Festival, March 22, Westminster Church … DC Women in Jazz, March, 24, Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum ... Geri Allen, March 27, Atlas Performing Arts Center … Lee Ritenour, March 28, Blues Alley … Thad Wilson, Allison Crockett, Tribute to Sarah Vaughan, March 29, Westminster Church … Brad Linde, March 29-30, Twins Jazz .…
CD was released late last month. Coming in May is a new CD, “It Was Beauty,” with pianist Orrin Evans, a big hit at the Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival. Steve Monroe is a Washington, DC, writer who can be reached at steve@ jazzavenues.com and followed at www.twitter.com/jazzavenues. u
the nose
by Anonymous
P
oor James Graham could not go quietly into that good night. Rather, the public was treated to weeks of extensive hand-ringing, obfuscations, last minute legal maneuvers and angry denials whose convoluted reasoning would have done Richard Nixon proud. In the end, the man behind the signature bow tie buckled under the inevitable judgment of his esteemed and much maligned colleagues and quietly suffered a reprimand. In the twilight moments of Graham’s desperate rearguard action, the only colleague to come to his aid was Marion “Mayor for Life” Barry. Barry’s primary interest in Affair Le Graham, lay not in the plight of his embattled colleague, but rather in the relitigation of his own censure of years past. Having watched the whole dismal proceeding, Dear Readers, The Nose was left wondering. Recent investigations by an esteemed fellow scribbler at the Washington City Rag reveal a mysterious nexus between Jeffrey Thompson’s largess, the bank accounts of one of the city’s most influential lobbyists and serendipitous political contributions. These monies have managed to find their way into the
campaign funds of many whose derrières still grace the dais. Was Graham thrown under the wheels of the ethics bus by colleagues a-feared of the impact of the looming Machen locomotive? Did the specter of Jeffery Thompson turning state’s evidence provide an essential motivation? Will Graham be the last or the first in a succession of councilmembers to suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune? Given the penchant of members for mixing constituent service fund raising with unlicensed nonprofits, The Nose would wager on the former rather than the latter. So, in the spirit of the Artful Dodger, here is a tune to fit to unwind the most difficult knotted tie:
Consider yourself reprimanded Consider yourself a party to infamy We’ve taken against you so strong It’s clear we’re no longer going along Consider yourself well spanked Consider yourself a victim of your own mendacity There isn’t a pointed cap to wear You’re snared! Go sit in the corner there If it should chance to be We should see Some harder days Empty larder days Then grouse! Always a-chance we’ll meet A developer To foot the bill Then the contributions are on the house! Consider yourself no saint We don’t want to have no fuss, For after some consideration, we can state Consider yourself Not one of us! After all the strum und drang, Dear Readers, Graham regained The Nose’s respect by standing up and taking the blow on the chin. On some not too distant day, he may yet have the pleasure of witnessing one of those colleagues ducked walked off in handcuffs. Have a comment for The Nose, email thenose@hillrag.com. u Midcity DC | MARCH 2013 u 23
Bike Theft in DC by Amanda Abrams
t’s not the kind of thing you forget. On a chilly winter night six years ago, I rode my bike to Metro Center with plans to hear a band in Clarendon. Using a Kryptonite lock I secured my trusty metal steed to a parking meter in front of the station and headed down to the Metro. That was around 8 p.m. Four hours later I emerged from underground and the bike was gone.
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I did a double take, and then a double think. Did I really leave the bike at this exact corner? But a cursory investigation and rehashing of my earlier actions confirmed it: the bike had been there, and now it was gone. The serviceable brown Raleigh had been stolen, never to be heard from again. But to be honest, I count myself lucky. Despite riding my bike all over town on a daily basis, I’ve been largely unscathed by theft since that night in 2007. Talk to other dedicated riders and you’re likely to hear a litany of stolen bike stories.
A Growing Trend The FBI estimates that over 200,000 bicycles were stolen nationwide in 2010. But those are simply the documented thefts; only a percentage of folks call the cops when they discover their bike is gone (I didn’t even consider it). Which means the real number could be four or five times
higher. New York City alone, according to bicycle advocacy groups there, sees 75,000100,000 bike thefts per year. Getting numbers for DC is tricky. Theft data is not easily categorized by stolen property type, which makes isolating cases of bicycle theft a time consuming business. Fortunately, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) cooperated with a request for information from this reporter. They furnished preliminary numbers for bike thefts, arrests of bike thieves and also those fencing stolen bikes for 2011 and 2012. The data demonstrates that bike theft is a major problem in the city’s western wards. The First District comprising Capitol Hill, Southwest and parts of the Penn Quarter, the Second District comprising the suburban areas east of Rock Creek and the Third District comprising the central neighborhoods of U Street, Dupont, Logan and Columbia Heights compete for most stolen bikes. The reports of stolen bikes fell marginally from 1835 in 2011 to 1797 in 2012. Arrests for bike theft increased from 65 in 2011 to 98 in 2012. Arrests for receiving stolen
bikes, so-called ‘fencing,’ increased from 32 in 2011 to 36 in 2012. MPD’s First District Commander, Daniel Hickson, describes bike theft as a “significant issue” and says his team gets calls about stolen bikes a few times a week. And biking is clearly up around the city. The DC Department of Transportation’s December “bike count,” in which staffers tally the number of bikers at various locations around town, showed a 175 percent increase in peak-hour ridership between 2004 and 2012. Increased biking means, of course, more bikes and more opportunity for theft. “Every day, people come in and say their bike was stolen,” commented Denise D’Amour, co-owner of Capitol Hill Bikes on Barracks Row. D’Amour has her own tale: her bicycle disappeared while she was attending the inauguration of the DC Bicycle Advisory Council at Judiciary Square. Adrian Fenty had two bikes stolen out of his garage while he was mayor. Councilmember Mary Cheh was the victim of bike theft. And of course, it’s all over the internet: a quick Google search for “stolen bikes DC” turns up dozens of personal stories and several websites cataloguing recently stolen cycles. So what do the MPD’s numbers tell us? Firstly, given anecdotal evidence, bike theft appears to be a significantly underreported crime. Secondly, the MPD arrests very few bicycle thieves or fences. Bicycle theft is a clearly a major quality of life crime. So, why are there so few arrests? The US Attorney is not interested in prosecuting bicycle theft, stated one DC Council source. Very few of the cases that the MPD brings to them are pursued. As a result, the police are reluctant to waste time chasing bike thieves. This writer was unable to obtain any data on the prosecution of bike related arrests from the US Attorney. “We do not keep track of our theft cases in this manner,” stated spokesperson William Miller.
Stolen Bikes’ Destination? It’s safe to guess that thousands of DC bikes are ripped off each year. But what’s still unknown is where they wind up. I’ve wondered that ever since losing my own bike. Despite keeping a keen eye out for it, I never spotted it. My half-hearted hunch was that DC’s hot bikes get shipped to Baltimore, and Charm City’s black market cycles come here. But upon asking around, I found that most in-the-know folks
Midcity DC | MARCH 2013 u 25
“If you walk on H Street for long enough, someone will walk by and ask if you want to buy a bike.” think the city’s stolen bicycles remain here and get resold pretty quickly. “The majority of [stolen] bikes are just circulated on the street in the informal economy,” Loren Copsey, co-owner of H Street NE’s Daily Rider store (and a former police officer), told me. “If you walk on H Street for long enough, someone will walk by and ask if you want to buy a bike.” Copsey said he sees it regularly. Someone will poke their head into his shop and ask if he wants to purchase their cycle. “We ask, ‘What kind of bike is it?’ If you have to look down and see what kind it is, it’s probably not yours,” he said. Resale prices are invariably low. Most thieves, he said, have no idea of the vehicle’s market price. “The street value of a bike is $25-$40, no matter how high-end the bike is. The bike is a means of transportation, nothing more.” Greg Billing, advocacy coordinator for the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA), agreed. “What we’ve heard is that most bikes are sold very quickly,” he said. “It’s normally a crime of opportunity; the bikes are usually staying nearby.”
Investigating for Myself: Pawnshops, Craigslist and DC’s Bike Messengers It makes sense, but something doesn’t ring true to me. Maybe it’s because I’ve lived in the District for a decade and have never, ever been offered a cut-rate bike on the street. And aside from one-on-one transactions, I can’t see where the thieves would dump the hot vehicles. After all, the city’s bike shops can’t sell used cycles without a pawn license, which most don’t have. Pawnshops themselves aren’t a great option, either. Oh, they see the bikes. “About three times a day, people come in
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trying to sell them,” said David Brown, an employee at 14th Street NW’s Crown Pawnbrokers, told me. But the store’s owners don’t accept secondhand bicycles of any sort. Those pawnshops that do take bikes are required to report each one to the police, who run the vehicle’s details through a database of stolen bicycles. Eastern Market’s weekend flea market, meanwhile, stopped accepting bicycle vendors a couple of years ago. And the wildand-woolly Shaw flea market at 9th and U streets NW doesn’t exist anymore. That’s two fewer options right there. Of course, the most obvious outlet for anything used is Craigslist, and there are several well-publicized stories of DC residents finding their stolen bikes there. On any given day there might be hundreds of used bikes listed for sale. But very few are priced at the outrageously low rates Copsey referred to – and most include details about the vehicle that you’d imagine only a former owner would know. I was not the only one curious, Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Wells, an avid cyclist himself, often wondered what became of all those stolen bikes. During his unfortunately brief tenure as head of the DC Council’s Committee on Transportation and Public Works, Wells designed and funded a groundbreaking partnership between MPD and DDOT designed to find answer to the stolen bike conundrum. This initiative involved leaving “bait bikes” – leaving GPS-tagged bicycles un- or under-locked in public. The city’s police officers, at least, don’t seem to think Craigslist is a major outlet for stolen bicycles. In August 2012, the “bait bikes” scheme had made 24 arrests by early January. “No suspect has debriefed
[us] about Craigslist,” wrote assistant police chief Diane Groomes in an email. “Most appear to be used by suspect.” Recently, with the aid of a victim, the MPD successfully arrested a suspect for fencing a stolen bike on Craig’s List. So, the picture remains muddy. But the info is far from definitive. Billing, from WABA, had recommended I talk to bike couriers if I wanted more details, so I headed downtown to seek out the ragtag band of dudes who make their living by riding all day. Turned out, none of them had much in the way of news. Oh, sure: they all had stories of getting their rides ripped off at some point. And many said they’d been offered cycles they assumed had been stolen. “Guys come through here all the time selling [secondhand] bikes,” said Rodger, who was hanging out at 18th and L Street and declined to give his last name. He said that while messengers might buy components from the sellers, they generally try to avoid purchasing cycles they think are stolen. By and large, the messengers thought that most of the stolen cycles remain in the District. A few, however, repeated a rumor I’d come across. “I’ve heard that people come down from New York with a van every spring” and steal bikes, said Tony Azzouzi; several of his colleagues agreed. Aha! So perhaps my DC-Baltimore bike-swap theory wasn’t too far off after all. Was it possible that my little brown Raleigh had been shipped off to the Big Apple? But rumors are rumors; if I wanted to learn more about where my bike – and the thousands of others stolen this past year – had gone, I’d have to dig further. Bike Theft Part 2 will appear in the April issue of the Hill Rag. u
HAVING TROUBLE FINDING MidCity DC?
MIDCITY FEBRUARY 2013
14U Cafe
1939 U ST NW
LAYC
Andrene’s Carribean
308 Kennedy ST NW
Lincoln Westmoreland
Azi’s Cafe
1336 9th ST NW
Ben’s Chilli Bowl
1213 U ST NW
Long & Foster
1401 14th ST NW
Bicycle Space
1019 7th Street, NW
Love Cafe
1501 14th ST NW
Big Bad Woof
117 Carroll ST NW
Marie Reed Rec Center
2200 Champlain ST NW
Big Bear
1700 1st ST NW
MLK Library
901 G ST NW
Bioscript Pharmacy
1325 14th ST NW
Modern Liquors
1200 9th ST NW
Brookland Metro
801 Michigan Avenue NE
Mt. Vernon Sq. Metro
700 M ST NW
Bus Boys & Poets
1025 5th ST NW
Mt. Pleasant Library
3162 Mt. Pleasant St. NW
Bus Boys & Poets
2021 14th ST NW
Northwest One Library
155 L ST NW
Caribou Coffee
1400 14th ST NW
Off Road Cycling
905 U Street, NW
Carls barber shop
1406 P St MW
Paul Laurence Dunbar
Chatman’s Bakery
1239 9th ST NW
Chester Arthur House
23 Logan Circle NW
Petworth Library
4200 Kansas AVE NW
Chinatown Coffee
475 H ST NW
Petworth Metro
3700 Georgia AVE NW
City First Bank
1432 U ST NW
Phyllis Wheatly YWCA
901 Rhode Island Avenue, NW
CNN Office
224 7th ST SE
Providence Hospital
1150 Varnum St NE
Coldwell Banker
1606 17th ST NW
Reeves Center
2000 14th ST NW
Columbia Hts. Coffee
3416 11 ST NW
Safeway
1045 5th ST NW
CVS
1000 U ST NW
1701 Corcoran ST NW
110 Carroll ST NW
1747 Columbia RD NW
Apts.
Sr. Apartments
1117 10th ST NW
1730 7th Street, NW
2001 15th Street NW
6501 Piney Branch RD NW
128 Kennedy ST NW
Senior Wellness Center
3531 Georgia Avenue, NW
1418 P ST NW
Shaw Library
945 Rhode Island AVE NW
1637 P Street, NW
Shaw Mainstreet
1426 9th ST NW
1700 Columbia RD NW
Shaw metro
1800 7th st NW
1900 7th ST NW
Shephard Park Library
7420 Georgia Avenue, NW
2129 14th ST NW
Starbucks
1600 U ST NW
3031 14th ST NW
2225 Georgia AVE NW
3601 12th ST NE
State Farm
3327 12th ST NE
400 Mass. AVE NW
Street Boxes
925 monroe st ne
6514 Georgia Ave, NW
925 monroe st ne
DC Child & Family Services Agency
1419 Columbia RD NW
2022 14th ST NW 200 I Street SE
8th & R Streets., NW
Drafting Table
1529 14th ST NW
1400 Block P Street, NW
Dunkin Donuts
1739 New Jersey Ave NW
7th ST & Rhode Is. Ave, NW
Emery Recreation Ctr.
5701 Georgia Avenue, NW
1501 14th ST NW
Enviro. Working Group
1436 U ST NW
First Cup Coffee
900 M ST NW
Takoma Metro
327 Cedar ST NW
Foster House Apts.
801 Rhode Is. Ave, NW
Takoma Park Library
312 Cedar Street, NW
Giant
1050 Brentwood RD NE
Third District MPD
1620 V ST NW
1345 Park RD NW
Trilogy NoMa
151 Q Street, NE
Habesha market
1919 9th st
Tryst
2459 18th ST NW
Harris Teeter
1201 First St, NE
Turkey Thickett Rec Ctr. 1100 Michigan Avenue, NE
1501 U ST NW
1631 Kalorama RD NW
U Street metro
900 U st
Heller’s Bakery
3221 Mt. Pleasant ST NW
Wilson Building
1350 Pennsylvania AVE NW
Howard University
2225 6th ST NW
Windows Cafe
101 Rhode Island AVE NW
Java House
1645 Q ST NW
Yoga District
1830 1st ST NW
Kennedy Rec Center
1401 7th ST NW
MIDCITY YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
Midcity DC | MARCH 2013 u 27
your neighborhood
+ District Beat
The April 23 Special Election Primer
I
f you’re feeling a little electoral fatigue, we hate to break it to you: there’s another election coming on April 23. On that day, DC residents from across the city will choose the new At-Large councilmember to fill the seat once held by DC Council Chair Phil Mendelson, now occupied on an interim basis by Councilmember Anita Bonds (D-At Large). Seven candidates are all in: Bonds, Ward 1 State Board of Education Representative Patrick Mara, Initiative 70 activist Elissa Silverman, former At-Large Councilmember Michael Brown, Ward 3 ANC Commissioner Matthew Frumin, defense attorney Paul Zukerberg, and social activist Perry Redd. The context of the election is both quite similar and quite different than in the past. Ethics remains an issue on the forefront of many voters’ minds—Councilmember Jim Graham (D-Ward 1) was recently reprimanded for his controversial role in a Metro land deal—while lawmakers begin to tackle education challenges ranging from school closures to chronic truancy. And while the city recently posted a $417 million surplus and continues to grow (55 cranes dot the city’s sky, officials like to boast), the squeeze on neediest residents is acute, with affordable housing remaining in short supply and a persistent homeless population (including 600 children) at DC General. Still, this is a special election, so the dynamics are different than in most races. Turnout is likely to be anemic at best—in the 2011
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by Martin Austermuhle At-Large special election it barely exceeded 10 percent—and candidates have less time to raise money and campaign. How will it shape up? Here’s a quick review of the top candidates.
Patrick Mara
For the current Ward 1 representative to the DC State Board of Education, this could well be it. While he failed in two prior bids for the DC Council—in 2008 and 2011—he’s now among the bestpositioned. Mara can draw on a database of supporters gathered in previous efforts. And, while many would say that that’s the case despite his party affiliation—he’s a Republican, a rare breed in these parts—others say it’s because of it that he might well win. Republicans haven’t held a seat on the council since 2008, and they’ve suffered a steady string of defeats since. Special elections are low-turnout affairs, and with a targeted and spirited effort Mara will be able to attract enough local Republicans to his cause. Additionally, being anything but a Democrat isn’t a bad thing in scandal-ridden DC; Mara’s message of political diversity could play well to the many new voters who are opting to remain independent. Finally, Mara is of even rarer breed than just any Republican— he’s an urban Republican. Socially progressive, fiscally prudent, heavily involved in education, and a proven vote-getter, Mara can appeal to many crowds. Still, will his usual calls for lower taxes resonate in a city suffering from a severe
affordable housing crunch and enduring surpluses? And will his strongest bases of support—wards 1, 2 and 3—remain as solid with other competitors vying for them? More importantly, can he repeat his last success in the city’s largest ward, Ward 6? There, Mara polled strongly in the neighborhoods surrounding Eastern Market.
Elissa Silverman
The former Washington Post reporter and policy wonk at the DC Fiscal Policy Institute has transitioned smoothly into her role as an At-Large candidate: she has a well-known political sponsor (former Ward 3 Councilmember Kathy Patterson), a snappy campaign slogan (“Integrity, Accountability and Investment”) and wonky-yet-approachable answers to many of the city’s most intractable problems. Silverman has translated her work on Initiative 70—which would have banned corporate contributions to local campaigns— into a pitch for why she’d be bestplaced to address the council’s lack of ethics, while hammering home the need for more affordable housing and better-spent workforce development dollars. Silverman also has access to the network of activists that very nearly placed Initiative 70 on the ballot. This rolodex no doubt gives her an edge in volunteers. Silverman’s natural base seems to be among the city’s young progressive set, but even there she’ll have to temper any enthusiasm for their causes with appeals to
the Ward 3 voters that Patterson will insist she attract. At a recent forum, for example, she said she was opposed to a DC plan to scrap parking minimums at new developments. That might sound like music to the ears of some Ward 3 residents, but it’ll be nails-ona-chalkboard for those in denser parts of town. Will Silverman’s progressive appeal attract the same demographic that turned out strongly for David Grosso in Wards 4, 5 and 6? Can Silverman secure the endorsement of the Washington Post Editorial Board, who have given Mara the nod in the past?
Michael Brown
The former councilmember wants his old job back after having been handed a humbling defeat by Councilmember David Grosso (I-At Large) last November. It’s not impossible to see it happen: Brown is affable and approachable, has citywide name recognition and can tout many of the progressive causes he championed—affordable housing, jobs—while on the council. Given that prominence of issues of affordable housing and unemployment in recent months, Brown is in a perfect position to capitalize. Still, his biggest obstacle seems to be his own inability to muster an aggressive campaign. With little raised as of the end of January—a mere $9,500 from 10 donors—and talking points premised on what he once did instead of what he plans to do, Brown runs the risk of sounding like he merely expects to get the job back.
Matthew Frumin
Despite being a novice in citywide campaigns, Frumin isn’t a total political newbie. A Ward 3 ANC commissioner and former congressional candidate, Frumin led all his competitors in fundraising at the end of January, taking in over $80,000 from over 200 contributors. Frumin’s work on Wilson High School’s modernization gives him education credentials. His mediation of sensitive development matters in his ward allows him to claim that he can handle those that are difficult and divisive. He’s also got a heck of a campaign slogan for the moment DC finds itself in: “Let’s Grow Together.” Frumin is challenged by low visibility, though with the money he has, he could well spread it far and wide by Election Day.
Anita Bonds
The current Interim Councilmember has been a behind-thescenes operative in DC politics since the era of Marion Barry. She knows the ins-and-outs of the city’s political machinery—the DC Democratic State Committee, which she leads, is backing her—and can call upon many people for favors. But in these uncertain times, Bonds close ties with the Democratic establishment can do more to sink her candidacy than help her to victory. The DC Democratic State Committee hasn’t elected new members in over four years (and that might be the least of the issues it has faced). And, for as much as Bonds professes to favor stronger ethics laws, the fact remains that for years she was on the payroll of Fort Myer Construction, one of the biggest DC contractors.
The Remainder of the Pack
Redd and Zukerberg are worthy candidates in some respects, but they simply haven’t raised enough money to be viable. Money isn’t everything, but rare is the candidate that wins with none of it. To their credit, both have brought diverse perspective to candidate debates: Redd speaks passionately about helping returning citizens reintegrate into society, while Zukerberg insists that the possession of small amounts of marijuana should be decriminalized.
The Horse Race
How is each candidate going to approach the race? For Mara, Silverman and Frumin, Grosso’s successful campaign in unseating Brown is instructive. Focus your efforts on Wards 2, 3, 4 and 6. All of these wards are rich in voters and have shown an inclination to dump the incumbents. Ward 6, in particular, powered Grosso ahead. For Brown and Bonds, much like Mayor Vincent Gray, Wards 5, 7, and 8 hold the key: Brown drew most of his votes in the race against Grosso from these eastern localities. These neighborhoods provided the votes for Fenty’s defeat. Here, Bonds can rely on her institutional contacts to help push her candidacy. Yet, the lack of a strong, single African-American candidate may reduce their influence and turnout. The battle therefore is likely to be won elsewhere. Given the lineup, though, this election won’t break down the same way that the 2011 At-Large special did. Mara won’t be able to corner the market on Ward 3; both Frumin and Silverman have significant claims to some of those voters. Additionally, Wards (continued on pg. 31)
Midcity DC | MARCH 2013 u 29
your neighborhood
+ The Numbers
The Little Tax Credit That Could: Using the Tax Code to Help Residents in Gentrifying Neighborhoods
I
magine walking down H Street, NE, on your way to a restaurant that just opened, passing new housing under construction along the way. For many us that image generates mixed feelings: excitement about the new housing and retail options but also concern about what the changes will mean for the low- and moderate-income residents who have been living there for years. Wouldn’t it be great if we could have the best of both worlds — new development coupled with efforts to help existing residents stay and benefit from the changes? That requires concerted strategies to preserve affordable housing in gentrifying neighborhoods before prices rise too much. Mayor Gray’s recent commitment to create 10,000 units of affordable housing could be used in this way. But another, more immediate strategy is available as well — buried in DC’s tax code of all places — that has the potential to help homeowners and renters stay in their homes as property taxes and rents rise. The little known tax credit with an unremarkable name, Schedule H, is severely limited in its reach and power. However, Mayor Gray and the DC Council have the power to address problems that have left Schedule H very under-utilized for a long time, by providing funding for reforms passed by the DC Council. These changes could help tens of thousands of DC households get a tax credit of up to $1,000.
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by Ed Lazere and Jessica Fulton Schedule H Is a Property Tax “Circuitbreaker”
Schedule H kicks in when residents end up spending a large share of their income on property taxes. These kinds of tax credits are used across the country to cut off property taxes when they become too burdensome. They are often described as “circuitbreakers” because they act like the switches in our homes that shut off the electricity when a circuit is overwhelmed. Schedule H helps not only homeowners, but renters as well. Before you think to yourself “But renters don’t pay property taxes,” think about this: Landlords pay property taxes, and the rents they charge need to cover all of their expenses, including taxes. This means tenants indirectly make property tax payments. DC’s Schedule H assumes that 15 percent of a resident’s rent payment goes to cover their landlord’s property taxes. Given that most DC households are renters, allowing all overburdened households to claim Schedule H is important to making it an anti-displacement tool. Especially in a city where rents rose sharply over the past decade — even in the midst of a recession.
Recent Changes Address Schedule H’s Shortcomings
Currently, only households earning under $20,000 can apply for Schedule H, an income limit dating back to the mid 1970s
when the credit was established. Even worse, people who share housing — like a grandmother who lives with a grown child and grandchild — have to have combined income below $20,000, and they have to count some sources of income that are hard to document. It is no wonder that only 7,000 households — 20 percent of those potentially eligible — claim it each year. Fortunately, the DC Council adopted major changes to Schedule H last year, although without any of the needed funding. The changes include raising the maximum income limit to $50,000, a much better measure of the residents likely to be burdened by high property taxes, and raising the maximum credit amount to $1,000. The reforms also simplify the complex rules that have limited participation. Under the changes, a family with an income of $25,000 and monthly rent of $750 would get an annual $1,000 tax credit from Schedule H, while a family earning $40,000 and paying $1,000 in rent or property taxes would get an $800 tax credit. That level of assistance will not necessarily offset rising rents or property taxes for every DC family, but it will help them cope with DC’s high costs of living. Setting the Schedule H credit at this level also allows it to serve tens of thousands of households across the city, including those who are likely to sit for years on waiting lists for affordable housing. Improving Schedule
H could help as many as 9,000 in Ward 3, 15,000 in Ward 6, and 18,200 in Ward 8. Although not all eligible residents will take advantage of the tax credit, thousands will benefit from the reforms.
DC’s Growing Prosperity Offers a Chance to Make Schedule H a Powerful AntiDisplacement Tool
The District ended 2012 with a whopping $417 million surplus, and all indicators suggest that tax collections in 2013 are equally strong. Mayor Gray already is talking about how he hopes to take advantage of the city’s growing resources, including a major commitment to affordable housing. Schedule H is not technically a housing program, but it should be thought of as one. With housing costs rising faster than incomes, Schedule H can target tax assistance directly on residents struggling the most to keep up. Mayor Gray should fund the adopted improvements to Schedule H as part of his commitment to making housing affordable for all DC residents. Lazere and Fulton are staff at the DC Fiscal Policy Institute (www. dcfpi.org), which conducts research on tax and budget issues that affect low- and moderate-income DC residents. u
(continued from pg. 29) 1 and 6 will remain in play: Mara is proven vote-getter in both, but Silverman calls Ward 6 home and can appeal to younger voters packing into Ward 1. Brown and Bonds will fight for votes in wards 5, 7 and 8, but the biggest question is whether Brown will be able to seek amends among the Ward 4 voters that can be so decisive in most local races. Money, of course, will play its usual role. Frumin took in an exception haul, while Silverman did well with $35,000 raised. Mara seemed a little limp at $20,000 collected, but a few high-profile fundraisers in February might reverse that trend. (He said he plans to raise $100,000.) Neither Brown nor Bonds seems particularly aggressive about raising money, which could make them non-factors come Election Day. Still, given the nature of the race, Mara will be tough to beat if he can get his party faithful to the polls. Yet he is far from having a lock on the election. An aggressive Silverman is bent on contesting every vote in Wards 3 and 6, threatening Mara’s support at The Post, and organizing a GOTV effort using the bones of Initiative 70. Frumin will also erode Mara support in northwest precincts. In the absence of polling data, the race is much too early to call.
Baseball Season Begins Again
N
ext month the season of baseball begins again. DC will be a city with great expectations. Can we shake off those weary blues from the last game The Nationals played? Do you recall how loud the silence was in the ball park? Cardinals dancing on our field like vultures plucking out our hearts. Now we are about to march back into April. It’s a year in which no names will be voted into the hall of fame. Our nation went from junk bonds to Barry Bonds. What’s next? It’s so important that our young baseball team have another great year. Our city needs to win. I want the best for Strasburg and Harper. I’m glad LaRoche didn’t leave. Spring is a time of hope: Easter and eggs. Show me a robin sticking out its chest and chirping and I know the smell of hotdogs and beer will soon be in the air and the sun will make me sweat before the seventh inning stretch. Do I have any fears? Yes, a few – well, make that many since RGIII went down. What is the future go-
by E. Ethelbert Miller ing to look like? One minor change that might soon hit baseball is the replacement of the dugout phone with cellphones. This seems like such a small matter, but consider how much drama there is when a manager or pitching coach turns to use that phone hanging on the wall. One call and you know the guy standing on the mound might be yanked after facing one or two more batters. I need to see a manager making that call. Texting someone in the bullpen is like refusing to go out to the opera. It’s the small changes to the game of baseball that mirror what is taking place in our society. Tradition is sometimes upheld by a belt around one’s pants, a tie to an interview, polished shoes, and letting an elder go to the front of the line. Too often these small things slip away like a gas-line leak making you shake your dizzy head in circles. I’ll always be a fan of baseball because of how the game is played. It’s where individuals make errors, guys get picked off first after a date with a single and people
steal without going to jail. This is what I have to look forward to in April. Don’t remind me about the IRS when I want to count the first RBIs. I’m waiting for the winning streak to hit double figures, a few walk-off homeruns and maybe an early no-hitter. This is DC, a city where dreams are honored on the mall, and a place where history never sleeps. I wish it was always spring here – endless cherry blossoms and water flowing in Rock Creek Park, the sound of many languages laughing and dancing in duets. This is the city by the Potomac, blessed by both north and south, blessed to have a baseball team first in its division. Now I need the movie sequel with the happy ending. I want to say goodbye to March and kiss April hello. Oh, and don’t tell me about the rain that might fall next month. I don’t want to confuse it with tears. Baseball will be back soon, and what makes a curveball break is nothing but splendor, perfection and happiness. u
Martin Austermuhle is Editor-in-Chief of DCist.com and a freelance writer. He lives in Columbia Heights. u Midcity DC | MARCH 2013 u 31
your neighborhood
I
f you’re talking about the pace of new businesses getting ready for opening day in U/14, then March is definitely full of madness!
The Hunger Aims to be Satisfied
On U Street, at least two new food and drink spots are to open within the next several months according to the timetable that I hear, and on 14th Street, that number multiplies by at least two to four. Near the corner of 13th on U Street, the old Quiznos sand-
Logan Circles by Mark F. Johnson
two. Ironically, Ben’s Chili Bowl, across the street from the soon to be &Pizza is doing a reverse move pretty soon to Atlas. Ben’s has bought a building on H Street and will soon open what looks to be a Ben’s Too in Hipsterville. I’m not sure why &Pizza isn’t going with “U&Pizza” for its U Street offshoot but anyway, here comes more of the quick and easy treats that many urbanites pick up to take home and devour. Down the street from the &Pizza spot in the building that
Le Diplomate, at the corner of 14th and Q.
wich shop is about to give way to &Pizza, the made-to-order pizza sensation that, like Taylor Gourmet, got its start on H Street NE and, also like Taylor Gourmet, has now muscled its way into U/14. H&Pizza became a real hit in its first year in the Atlas District, as H Street is now generally called. During last summer’s H Street Festival, lots of Shaw, U Streeters, Loganites and Columbia Heights folks discovered the place and now they won’t have to go across town just to get a slice or 32 u midcitydcnews.com
formerly housed Urban Essentials furniture at 1330 U, look for a concept to be called District Pub or something similar. We reported a couple months ago that Streetsense had been negotiating a contract with a restaurant for that space. District Pub is applying for a liquor license. I expect they will open sometime in early summer if the plans go on schedule. Apparently 14th Street has a whole bunch of hungry folks walking around night after night. And there are many cooking up ways to satisfy that hunger! Another new
eatery well on the way is Le Diplomate, at the corner of 14th and Q. We had heard about a year or so ago that this place would be called the Italian Shirt Laundry, which was fitting because the building had housed a laundry for decades. But as it turns out, that deal frayed at the edges and now the place is to be yet another French bistro from Philly restaurateur Stephen Starr. According to the timetable, the place is to open later this month but that could possibly be optimistic as they have just very recently begun to interview for waiter and management positions. Further up 14th at S, the people behind Ted’s Bulletin and Matchbox, which opened at the corner of 14th and T at the top of the year, say that their comfort food concept Ted’s Bulletin is also well on the way to a spring opening on the ground floor of the District on 14th between S and Swann Streets. This would be the second Ted’s in the city. The first is on 8th Street SE in Barracks Row. As if just hearing about all these new foodie joints isn’t enough to make someone bust, moving up 14th less than a block, we’ll soon find the Evening Food Market I am told. The concept, which apparently started in London, would bring various food truck vendors to the old Hunted House space at 1830 14th. That space would actually be great for this kind of concept because of the three separate apartments that form chopped up spaces for individual “booths” or something similar. And because the space is “primitive” and quirky,
which worked nicely for Hunted House’s Mid Century Modern furniture, it is easy to pack up if a particular vendor moves and there is no need to install kitchens or ventilation with food trucks. I’m not sure yet if the Food Market would take up both floors of the building or just the upstairs. Just recently, Arts 1830, an art gallery that had renovated and moved into the ground floor space closed down after about a year of trying to make a go of it. Hunted House moved out last April and set up a brand new shop in the Atlas District.
The Jeans are Coming Down You Say?
So, if Loganites and those who visit us regularly ate at all these new eateries that are about to launch in our midst, surely it would be time for some new gear! While not nearly as plentiful as restaurants, U/14 does have a respectable share of clothing stores. One of these stores, Universal Gear which moved to Logan from 17th Street a few years back, is very possibly moving again so I hear. Owner David Franco, it has been said, is considering moving the store, currently on 14th between P and Q, up the street to a new development between Wallach and T, on the site of what used to be the Mid City Post Office. He and partners are building a residential and commercial development there and, as I hear it, the clothing store might go into a ground floor space in that building once it is constructed. As the building is still in the scaffolding stage, don’t look for the jeans to come down at the current space anytime too soon. u
Shaw Main Streets’ Chef-Focused Gala
Shaw Main Streets recently announced plans for its 2013 gala, to take place at 7:00 p.m. on April 18 at Long View Gallery. This year’s gala will feature several of the most notable chefs of Shaw. The star chefs of the host committee will provide small bites for attendees of the gala, which will also be catered and have a bar. Gala Chair Mary Margaret Porterfield is excited about the foodie-focus of this year’s event. “We’ve developed a serious cluster of noteworthy restaurateurs in the Shaw Main Streets service area, like RJ Cooper, Tom Power, and Frederik De Pue (just to name a few). Their eateries are sought-out destinations in Washington, if not the country. We are going to take this moment to celebrate who they are and how they’ve enhanced our neighborhood.” As with last year’s gala, the atmosphere will Scripture Cathedral at 9th and O, poised for redevelopment. Photo: Ralph Brabham
Shaw Streets by Ralph Brabham
be lively and fun. A jazz band, silent auction of about a dozen exciting packages, and surprises will keep guests entertained. Tickets are $75 and can be purchased through the Shaw Main Streets website, www.shawmainstreets.org. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. An after-party beginning at 9:00 p.m. will take place at Long View Gallery, with a DJ, beer, and cash bar. Tickets, just $15, can be purchased through the Shaw Main Streets website.
WorkSpaces Out of Wonder Bread
Last summer, Douglas Development and WorkSpaces LLC announced that the latter would be the lead tenant of the Wonder Bread Factory at 641 S St. NW. The deal called for the workplace furniture dealer to lease 20,817 square feet of the under-renovation/expansion historic structure. In late February the plan fell through when WorkSpaces abruptly closed.
Sherry Bar and Salon Coming to Progression Place
The Shops at Progression Place consist of approximately 19,000 square feet of ground-floor retail space in the 1800 block of 7th St. NW. Two retail tenants have been announced. Wanda’s at Seventh Salon & Spa will be a fullservice Aveda salon, featuring make-up, hair, nails, and skin services to help men and women maintain a healthy, radiant appearance. Some of the specific services to be offered are manicures and pedicures, skin treatments, waxing, barber services, braiding and natural hair services, cut and color, and children’s services. Mockingbird Hill will be a sherry-focused bar featuring ham-focused small bites. It is the brainchild of star mixologist Derek Brown of The Passenger and Madrid resident Angie Salame.
Condos Coming to 11th and M
Community Three Development plans an 80unit project at 11th and M St. NW. The developer proposes to replace two surface parking lots with a structure wrapping the building at the corner – currently home to a self-service laundry on the ground floor. The project will have distinctive frontages on 11th and M St. NW, with ground floor retail on 11th and residential entrance on M Street. Assuming all goes according to plan, construction could begin within the year. Community Three has been responsible for several high-quality projects throughout Shaw, including The Nine (1316 9th St. NW ), M Street Flats (444 M St. NW ), and The Centre (under construction at 435 R St. NW ).
Scripture Cathedral Redevelopment Coming
On March 1 the Washington Business Journal broke the story that a partnership of Four Points LLC and The Warrenton Group LLC is under contract to purchase the Scripture Cathedral Church at 9th and O St. NW. The likely plan for the church’s properties, which are just across from CityMarket at O and a block north of the convention center, is a mixed use redevelopment. u Midcity DC | MARCH 2013 u 33
your neighborhood
Bloomingdale Bites by Jazzy Wright
Looking for Green in the Concrete
A battle over park space is being waged in Eckington, the neighborhood bordering Bloomingdale to the east. As the DC Department of Parks and Recreation makes plans to redesign the grounds of the Harry Thomas Recreation Center, the Eckington Dog Park Association is asking that the city set aside 5,000 square feet at the community center for a small dog park. “Harry Thomas is basically the only given space we have, and it’s a shame because when you start looking at other areas around Eckington, like LeDroit and Truxton, you have to go several blocks west to find park space,” said a representative from the association. But some residents aren’t so happy about the idea of pet ownCrispus Attucks Park
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ers bringing their dogs to the field. Local neighborhood commissioner Joyce Robinson-Paul said that she has collected more than 800 signatures on a petition from concerned parents strongly opposing the dog park. “We don’t want dogs to walk on the field and spread feces and urine where children play,” said Robinson-Paul, adding that the dog park should not be built near the field. “It’s a safety issue.” Once the petitions are filed the city will decide whether to build the dog park. The dispute reflects the lack of public parks in the Bloomingdale area. While there are more than 70 city and federal parks throughout Ward 5, only five small triangle parks are in Bloomingdale. “The dog park issue is an urban issue – there’s only so much green space,” said John
Stokes, chief of staff at DC Parks and Recreation. Peter Harnik, director of the Center for City Park Excellence at the Trust for Public Land, noted that “Bloomingdale does need more space because even though DC has more green space than many other cities, that part of the city probably has the least amount of parkland compared to other spaces.” A 2012 report from the Trust ranked DC fifth among the nation’s 40 largest cities for its park access and park space. According to Harnik, city parks are vital to the development of communities because they improve neighborhood safety, increase property values, reduce ambient temperature, and hold flood water. Right now, the Bloomingdale area’s 10,700 residents have
only one park, Crispus Attucks, a private one-acre space bounded between the alleys of 1st, North Capitol, U, and V streets NW. Though the park meets some of the community’s needs for green space, it is not large enough to serve a wide range of uses, such as dog walking or sport activities. “Our little Crispus Attucks Park can’t really serve as a proper park for active play,” said John Corea, board member of the Crispus Attucks Development Corporation. “Ours is really a place for more passive recreation.” Residents may see new green areas in the coming years. In January the DC Office of Planning announced that city officials would assess park and open space in the neighborhood as part of a new plan to revitalize six neighbor-
hoods. The office will provide recommendations to the city council by May 2014. Many area residents are hoping, in the meantime, that public park space comes out of the redevelopment plans at McMillan, the historic 25-acre water treatment facility located at the northern tip of Bloomingdale. If the city approves the site developer’s plans, McMillan could have nearly six acres of park space, in addition to new homes, offices, and retail, according to Tania B. Jackson, outreach coordinator for Vision McMillan Partners. But for many in the area, six acres may not be green enough. Preliminary data from a 2012 McMillan Advisory Group survey showed that most area residents prefer McMillan to consist of 50 percent or more of park space. In 2012 the Bloomingdale Civic Association passed a resolution of no confidence in the Vision McMillan plan on grounds that it lacked green space and did not acknowledge the site’s historical significance. “We don’t have many [park] options, which is why McMillan became such a focal point,” said John Salatti, a resident who used to give tours of McMillan before the city closed the site to the public last year. Salatti served as a neighborhood commissioner for five years and currently is a member of the Friends of McMillan, an advocacy group favoring preservation of the site. “When you’re doing urban development,” declared Salatti, “the first thing you do is build the park, then everything else around that.” Comparing the McMillan development plan to the recently gentrified NoMa district, he stated, “In NoMa, you have this large concrete area, but the people have nowhere to go. The city’s developers have no overall vision for what to do with McMillan, this amazing space, but the community continues to fight on.” u
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kids and family
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N O T E B O O K Environmental Film Festival for Kids at MLK Library
On Mar 12, 4 p.m., celebrate the DC Environmental Film Festival with short films especially selected for school-age children, including: A Sea Turtle Story; Hello, I’m a Nutria; Bunty’s Tree; Song of the Spindle; Hanging Around; and The Windmill Farmer. For ages 5 and older. On Mar 14, 11 a.m., for kids ages 3-5, there are five short films: Red; Hi! Fly Guy; A Sea Turtle Story; Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site; and Hanging Around. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G St. NW. 202-727-0321. dclibrary.org/mlk
Saturday Morning at the National Free Performances for Children
On Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. there are free live performances for children in the Helen Hayes Gallery. Tickets are required and distributed first comefirst seated. Tickets are distributed 1/2 hour prior to performance. One ticket per person in line. The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave., NW. 202-783-3372. Mar 9-The Bog Band and Shannon Dunne Dance Company. Celebrate the Irish in all of us with a fun-filled St. Patrick’s Day show of traditional Irish music and dance! The Bog Band, a group of young musicians totally mad for traditional Irish music, will be joined by the Shannon Dunne Dance Company ING Kids Rock DC Run which specializes in “Old Style“ dance step. Kids can be part of Rock ‘n’ Roll USA Mar 16-The Adventures of Polly Pedestrian. Marathon weekend excitement by parPolly learns important lessons—in English The National Building Museum decked out for the Cherry Blossom Family Days. Photo: Courtesy ticipating in ING KiDS ROCK DC. ING of the National Cherry Blosson Festival and Spanish—about traffic, pedestrian and KiDS ROCK, is a non-timed, non-combicycle safety from an unlikely friend: Ripetitive event for children in grades K–7. cardo, The Cavalier Raccoon! Puppetry, cool Cherry Blossom Family Days at the Kids can become marathon finishers on characters and a rockin’ finale enhance this race day by completing a cumulative maraNational Building Museum wise play which teaches taking responsibilthon training program in the weeks leading An annual opening of Washington’s cherry blossom season, ity for one’s actions and having compassion up to the race. Or, they can simply choose this two day annual family festival for “kids of all ages” features for others. Mar 23-Mother Goose: Jazz’n to run the 1-mile course on race day. The hands-on activities, interactive art demonstrations, and exciting Blues! Christiana Drapkin’s Jazz Ensemble kids race is on Thursday, March 14, 5:30 indoor and outdoor performances that celebrate spring and exreturns by popular demand! Sing, clap your p.m. at RFK Stadium. For more informaplore Japanese arts and design. Free. Saturday, Mar 23, 10 a.m.-4 hands, snap your fingers and swing in this tion, call 1-800-311-1255 or visit ingkidp.m. and Sunday Mar 24, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., National Building Muinteractive musical morning filled with varisrock.competitor.com. seum, 401 F St. NW. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org ations on popular children’s tunes. Everyone is part of the action whether singing about Nowruz: A Persian New Goldilocks and The Three Bears, Old MacDonald’s band, riding on Route 66 or Swinging on a Star. Apr 6-Matthew Pauli: The Sword in the Stone. Fresh from Year Celebration Family Day In conjunction with the US debut of the iconic Cyrus Cylinder, visitors his last appearance as Captain Nobeard, Matthew Pauli returns as the hapless of all ages are invited to enjoy “Haft Sin” table displays, “fire” jumping, a phoserf who, with a little help from the kids, attempts to draw the legendary Sword to booth, games, stories by Xanthe Gresham, performances by the Nomad from the Stone to find the one true King. Slapstick, silliness and a little bit of Dancers, and concerts by Mamak Khadem’s new ensemble. Explore digitized magic brings order to the realm and a guaranteed smile to everyone’s face! photographs by Antoin Sevruguin and participate in a variety of family activities. Traditional Persian food by Moby Dick House of Kabob is available for MARCH WITH KIDS at the Alliance Française purchase. Saturday, Mar 16, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.at the Freer and Sackler, S. Dillon On Mar 9, 10 a.m., there will be a kids author visit and art workshop. CathRipley Center. erine Pineur is the author and illustrator of a collection of Belgian stories loved 36 u midcitydcnews.com
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for their vibrant sense of life and color. Children are invited for a special reading with the author followed by an egg-painting workshop. $35. On Mar 29, 6 p.m., view the film Ciné Môme: Le renard et l’enfant (The Fox and the Girl). Free. One morning as she’s walking, a young girl spies a fox along the trail. She is so entranced that she forgets to be afraid, allowing all barriers between the two to fall away. And so begins an incredible friendship, through which she will discover a secret, wild world. Alliance Française, 2142 Wyoming Ave. NW. 202-234-7911. francedc.org
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“Hermitage Cats Save the Day” Musical Performance for Young Audiences
Continuing its commitment to young audiences, on Sunday, Mar 10 at 6:30 p.m., the National Gallery of Art presents the premiere of a musical for children, Hermitage Cats Save the Day. The musical features specially-commissioned music by Grammy-nominated American composer Chris Brubeck, son of the late jazz pianist and composer Dave Brubeck. Featuring an ensemble of ten musicians and three actors, the production is directed by Paul Looney and will include soloists from the Russian National Orchestra and the University of Alabama, as well as members of the National Gallery of Art Orchestra. The story is based on Washington local Mary Ann Allin’s children’s book Anna and the Hermitage Cats. During the program, the audience Midcity DC | MARCH 2013 u 37
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helps the Hermitage cats solve the mystery of who stole a work of art from the museum’s Ancient Egypt Hall. Cats have lived in the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia for more than 250 years, from the time of Catherine the Great, who founded the museum. This program is free of charge and will take place in the East Building Auditorium. Seating is first come, first served. nga.gov
St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at MLK Library
Why do people wear green on St. Patrick’s Day? On Mar 16, 3 p.m., come learn about this festive holiday that celebrates Irish heritage through music, stories and crafts. Appropriate for all ages. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G St. NW. 202-727-0321. dclibrary.org/mlk
Kites of Asia Family Day at Air and Space
The first aviation-related objects collected by the Smithsonian were two Chinese kites, donated in 1876. Celebrate this unique start to the National Air and Space Museum’s collection by visiting on the Kites of Asia family day. Experience the artistry and beauty of Asian kites, see indoor kite flying, and make your own kite! Free. Saturday, Mar 23, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. National Air and Space Museum, Independence Ave at 6th St. SW. 202-633-2214. airandspace.si.edu
DDOT and Metro Roll Out Pilot Program With Giant Stores
The District Department of Transportation, in collaboration with Metro and Giant Stores, will give District students the ability to purchase or renew their 10-trip Metrobus pass at any Giant Food store in Washington, D.C. under a new pilot program. The pilot program is designed to give students additional options for purchasing a 10-trip bus pass in areas closer to their neighborhood or school. The pilot will run through July 1, 2013. The Giant Stores participating in
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tween plant and pollinator and discover how a marshmallow can help you understand how plants photosynthesize. Saturday, Mar 16, 2-4 p.m. US Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Ave. SW. 202-225-8333. usbg.gov
four kinds of children’s play that child-development experts identify as more or less universal: exploration/tinkering; make believe/ visual thinking; social play/collaboration; and puzzle play/problem solving. inventionatplay.org
2013 Secondary Schools Shakespeare Festival
Science Experiment: Germs -The Importance of Handwashing
Watch as Shakespeare’s words come to life through performances from local secondary school students! Each performance lasts about 25 minutes, and ranges from high drama to zany comedy as they perform for their peers. Mar 18–26, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Visitor seating available in the Balcony. Free. Folger Elizabethan Theatre, 201 E. Capitol St. SE. 202-544-4600. folger.edu Luis Simón as Sancho Panza on the left and José Carrasquillo as Don Quijote on the right. Photo: Paul Montenegro
GALita Presents Las aventuras de Don Quijote de La Mancha
GALita, a program for the entire family, presents the return of Las aventuras de Don Quijote de La Mancha, a play based on the famous novel by literature by Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, written by Argentine playwright Patricia Suárez, with a bilingual adaptation by Cornelia Cody. Commissioned by GALA and directed by Hugo Medrano, GALA’s co-founder and Producing Artistic Director, Las aventuras de Don Quijote de La Mancha will be presented from Mar 18-28, at GALA Theatre, 3333 14th St. NW. Green line. Tickets are $12, and the group rate for 10 or more is $10. A special performance for the general public will take place on Saturday, Mar 23 at 3 p.m. The duration of the show is approximately 70 minutes and the content is appropriate for the entire family, but particularly for ages 7-12. For more information call 202-234-7174 or visit galatheatre.org. GALita produces children’s theater in both Spanish and English that inspire a sense of joy, discovery, pride and identity in our community’s youngest children. Accessible to both Spanish and English speaking children, GALita’s productions spark their curiosity and tolerance for cultures other than their own. the pilot are located at 1050 Brentwood Rd. NE; 1345 Park Rd. NW; 4303 Connecticut Ave. NW; and 1535 Alabama Ave. SE. Students must present their DC One Card and have at least one remaining bus trip on an existing pass in order to purchase a new 10-trip bus pass. Students without an active pass on their DC One Card will not be able to purchase a new pass at the Giant store. DDOT, WMATA and Giant Food will evaluate the program before making a decision on whether to continue or suspend the program 40 u midcitydcnews.com
following the pilot period. For more information about the pilot, please visit ddot.dc.gov/schooltransitsubsidy or contact DDOT’s Transit Subsidy Program at 202-673-1740.
Science Saturday at the Botanic Garden
Not enough science in your week? Join them for an afternoon of hands on plant science. Travel through the Conservatory experiencing the different biomes and learn about plant adaptations, explore the special relationship be-
Chess Challenge in DC
The 2nd Annual Chess Challenge in DC Citywide Elementary and Middle School Chess Tournament is on Mar 16, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. at Woodrow Wilson High School. This is an unrated four round tournament with a blitz playoff. Registration is free and all participants receive a tshirt, wristband, lunch, prizes and raffle tickets. To register go to chesschallengeindc.org. For more information call 202-579-5551.
“invention at play’ Website for Kids and Parents
Want to Play? Want to Invent? What’s the Difference? When asked what inspired them to become inventors, many adults tell stories about playing as children. Among their most frequently cited childhood play experiences are: mechanical tinkering, fiddling with construction toys, reflecting about nature, and drawing or engaging in visual modeling. There is something about the skills fostered by play that inventors value and keep using as part of their working lives. The playful approaches cited by creative adults form an interesting parallel to the
You may have heard in the news about the recent outbreaks of the flu and colds this winter. Doctors and scientists both recommend washing your hands with soap to avoid spreading germs. This experiment will help show your kids (and you) why just wiping your hands and not washing is not enough to stop the spread of germs. You will need two slices of dark bread (white bread will work but it will take longer because of the preservatives), two zippered sandwich bags, tongs, permanent marker and a spray bottle. Label one bag touched and one bag untouched. Set up this experiment after an outing or an activity where you would normally wash your hands. Wipe hands to remove dirt, but do not wash with soap and water. “Wipe” hands on both sides of one of the pieces of bread. Place this piece in the bag marked touched. Use the tongs to carefully place the second piece of bread in the untouched bag. Spray both pieces with two sprays of water and seal up the bags. Place the bags in a dark cabinet and check back every few days. Mold will grow on both slices of bread, but it will grow much sooner and in higher abundance on the touched slice. The germs from the dirty hands provide food for the mold to breed faster. These are germs that we are exposed to if our hands are not washed before we eat. This experiment proves the importance of hand washing. Source:education.com/activity/article/germs_make_me_sick_kinder. This experiment was featured in the Children’s Science Center January Newsletter. .TheChildrensScienceCenter.org u
COME HEAR THE AT-LARGE CANDIDATES DEBATE! The Spec i a l El e c ti o n i s Co m i n g o n April 23,2013.
Tuesday, March 19th, 7 to 9 p.m.
Wednesday, March 20th, 1 to 3 p.m.
Ward Memorial AME Church 241 42nd Street, NE
Congress Heights Senior Wellness Center 3500 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE
Moderators: Tracee Wilkins, Bureau Chief for NBC & Sam Ford, WJLA-TV News Reporter
Moderator: Stuart Rosenthal, Publisher, The Beacon Newspaper
Sponsors: Central Northeast Civic Association, East of the River Newspaper
Sponsors: Anacostia/Bellevue/Congress Heights AAARP Chapter #4870, Congress Heights Senior Wellness Center, Anacostia Coordinating Council (ACC), East of the River Newspaper
Wednesday, March 27th, 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. Eastern Senior High School 1700 East Capitol Street, NE (Stadium-Armory Metro Station)
Monday, April 8th, 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. Ballou Senior High School 3401 4th Street, SE (at Trenton Street)
Moderator: Sam Ford, WJLA-TV News Reporter
Moderator: Denise Rolark Barnes, Publisher, The Washington Informer
A Straw Poll will be Conducted After The Forum.
Sponsors: Ballou SHS PTSA, Congress Heights Community Association, Anacostia Coordinating Council, Advisory Neighborhood Commissions 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E, East of the River Newspaper
Sponsors: DC Federation of Civic Associations, Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6A, Anacostia Coordinating Council, Councilmember Tommy Wells, The Hill Rag Newspaper
For further information contact Philip Pannell, ACC Executive Director, 202-889-4900, acc01@aol. com. For information about the Central Northeast Civic Association debate, contact Janis D. Hazel, Communications Committee, Central NorthEast Civic Association (CNECA) at 202-630-5099
Midcity DC | MARCH 2013 u 41
at home
+ Garden Fairy
The Garden Fairy by Sarah McLaughlin
T
he beginning of 2013, as with all new seasons, has been filled with promises of better eating, more exercise, frequent journaling, and more letter writing. Somehow New Year’s resolutions seem to disappear so quickly, but this year I am determined to make my promises of better health last with a simple, long-term oriented trick: growing my own medicine! It is incredible how easy it is to grow a medicine cabinet full of goodness, even in a small urban garden. So far this year I have made a hand salve, body soap, chap stick, and a host of teas from herbs grown in my tiny backyard. Easy, organic, and a lot cheaper than buying products already made. I used skin-calming herbs such as calendula, lavender, and chamomile, and healing herbs such as plantain, oregano, and rosemary. I paid a visit to my favorite herb store (Blue Nile on Georgia Avenue) for shea butter, essential oil, and beeswax, and in a few hours and with the help of YouTube had crafted a host of products for myself and loved ones. The best thing about herbs is that they are often some of the easiest plants to grow. Perennials like rosemary, lavender, mint, and oregano will grow exponentially each year, with very little attention or care (you may need to control them so they don’t take over your garden). Many herbs can grow on windowsills and don’t even need a full day’s sunlight. Herbs can be harvested fresh or dried for use during the winter. Those harvest42 u midcitydcnews.com
ed for their leaves are the fastest and most efficient way to use a small space. You can gain the healing powers of herbs such as motherwort, nettles, or chickweed through teas and tinctures. A Google search of herbal remedies can lead to overwhelming and conflicting information, so if you are new to the herbal world, start simply with cooking herbs. Growing them is crazily easy and saves money almost immediately. At Old City green we sell all sorts of culinary herb seedlings for about three dollars, not much more than a bunch would be at the grocery store. With a little water and sunlight you’ll be using them recipe after recipe. Adding your own culinary herbs to cooking often enhances the medicinal properties over old, store-bought dried herbs. Culinary herbs have some surprising properties. Rosemary is an astringent, oregano is antibacterial, and thyme is antiseptic. One home remedy for deep coughs is to simmer fresh or dried oregano in a shallow skillet of water and breathe the steam deeply to loosen phlegm. You can obtain the medicinal properties of herbs by making infused oils, simmering them for a few hours in olive oil, then using the oil in culinary recipes or topical concoctions. A great book that uses fresh herbs in delicious recipes is “Nourishing Traditions” by Sally Fallon. If you are looking for help as you dive into the herb world, here are some good local places to start: Herb plants and gardening
supplies: Old City green (925 Rhode Island Ave. NW ) Dried herbs, shea butter, cocoa butter, and “concocting” supplies: Blue Nile (2826 Georgia Ave. NW ) Herbal consultations and products: Tricia McCauley, leafyhead.com Herbal CSA and plant walks: Little Red Bird Botanicals, http:// redbirdbotanicals.wordpress.com/ A window box full of herbs and a pot of healthy, homemade soup
Sarah McLaughlin teaches a children’s gardening class.
Redefining Beauty One Client at a Time! Over 20 years of experience
· Comprehensive Design and Maintenance Services · Installation, arbors, retaining walls, walkways, lighting, water features · Patios, roof top gardens, townhomes, single family homes • Trees & shrubs, formal & informal gardens • Custom Masonry, Fencing and Iron work · Restoration and Enhancement
SPRING GARDEN SPECIAL
is a great way to follow up on New Year’s promises!
(With This Coupon) exp 03/31/2013
10% off new clients and new installation
Sarah McLaughlin is a manager at Old City green and a children’s gardening teacher whose loves include worms, sungold tomatoes, kitchen experiments, and hiking. u
15% off any design
Derek Thomas / Principal Certified Professional Horticulturist, Master Gardener; Member of the MD Nursery and Landscape Association & the Association of Professional Landscape Designers
301.642.5182
www.thomaslandscapes.com
THOMAS LANDSCAPES
Full -Service Landscape Design & Maintenance Firm
midcitydcnews.com
Redmens Masonry Brickwork & Stonework Specialists • All Types of Masonry • Steps, Patios & Walkways • Historical Preservation & Restoration
No Job too Small
571-215-2504 Over 20 Years of Experience
ROOFING FLAT ROOF SPECIALISTS MODIFIED BITUMEN SKYLIGHTS 10% OFF SHINGLES WITH SLATE THIS AD CHIMNEY REPAIRS COATINGS & PAINTS GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS ALUMINUM & VINYL SIDING PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED “50 Years Experience”
All Work Managed & Inspected by Owners
G&G
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
202-425-1614 Licensed & Insured
Midcity DC | MARCH 2013 u 43
at home
+ Changing Hands
Changing Hands Changing hands is a list of most residential sales in the District of Columbia from the previous month. A feature of every issue, this list, based on the MRIS, is provided courtesy of Don Denton, manager of the Coldwell Banker office on Capitol Hill. The list includes address, sales price and number of bedrooms. Neighborhood
Price BR
FEE SIMPLE 16TH STREET HEIGHTS
1335 GALLATIN ST NW 1206 GALLATIN ST NW 1314 DECATUR ST NW 1333 HAMILTON ST NW 1501 GALLATIN ST NW
$527,000 $585,000 $600,000 $605,000 $735,000
ADAMS MORGAN 2205 ONTARIO RD NW
$615,000
AMERICAN UNIVERSITY PARK 4212 46TH ST NW 4316 46TH ST NW 4510 BRANDYWINE ST NW
$830,000 $849,900 $890,000
BLOOMINGDALE 11 R ST NW
$716,000
BRIGHTWOOD 7137 GEORGIA AVE NW 528 ROXBORO PL NW 434 ONEIDA PL NW 526 SHERIDAN ST NW 707 SHERIDAN ST NW 625 LONGFELLOW ST NW 7011 8TH ST NW 5821 4TH ST NW
$218,000 $242,000 $261,250 $265,000 $389,000 $459,000 $525,000 $656,000
CLEVELAND PARK 3400 RODMAN ST NW 3001 CATHEDRAL AVE NW
$900,000 $1,950,000
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 734 COLUMBIA RD NW 825 EUCLID ST NW 3028 SHERMAN AVE NW 749 GRESHAM PL NW 445 LAMONT ST NW 3209 11TH ST NW 1002 COLUMBIA RD NW 3300 WARDER ST NW 3545 13TH ST NW 624 PRINCETON PL NW 1300 EUCLID ST NW 1314 IRVING ST NW 3533 13TH ST NW
$340,000 $350,000 $358,000 $401,000 $515,000 $550,000 $553,900 $560,000 $615,000 $770,000 $950,000 $1,125,000 $1,300,000
CRESTWOOD 4352 BLAGDEN AVE NW 1722 VARNUM ST NW
$697,000 $805,000
DUPONT CIRCLE 1626 S ST NW 1620 RIGGS PL NW 1632 RIGGS PL NW
$1,395,000 $1,315,000 $1,500,000
GEORGETOWN 1716 34TH ST NW 1528 26TH ST NW 2802 N ST NW 2907 DUMBARTON ST NW 1406 30TH ST NW 3304 N ST NW
$70,000 $619,000 $929,000 $1,100,000 $1,549,000 $3,640,000
44 u midcitydcnews.com
3249 N ST NW 1248 30TH ST NW
$7,550,000 $7,600,000
GLOVER PARK 4 3 5 3 3 2 3 4 4
2113 37TH ST NW 3823 BEECHER ST NW
KALORAMA 2430 20TH ST NW 1872-1874 CALIFORNIA ST NW 2334 19TH ST NW 1821 FLORIDA AVE NW
3 3 3 3 3 4 3 4 3 6 3 2 3 3 4 3 4 4 4 4 5 4 7 3 4 6 7 4 0 2 1 2 3 4
$1,210,000 $1,218,000 $1,327,500 $1,450,000
LEDROIT PARK 437 ELM ST NW 64 CHANNING ST NW 46 ADAMS ST NW
$440,000 $701,000 $783,000
MASS. AVE. HTS. 2910 EDGEVALE TER NW
3
$788,000 $825,000
$5,495,000
OLD CITY 208 N ST NW 1431 3RD ST NW 1407 NEW JERSEY AVE NW 1227 S ST NW 1604 3RD ST NW
$361,500 $433,000 $590,000 $601,000 $630,500
6 5 3 4 5 5 5 3 2 4 4 6 3 3 3 2 4
PETWORTH 316 WEBSTER ST NW 5123 7TH ST NW 733 FARRAGUT ST NW 809 JEFFERSON ST NW 5023 8TH ST NW 5320 9TH ST NW 5237 5TH ST NW 5730 8TH ST NW 725 TAYLOR ST NW 5201 2ND ST NW 4924 3RD ST NW 4618 8TH ST NW 405 WEBSTER ST NW 539 SHEPHERD ST NW 4421 9TH ST NW 122 LONGFELLOW ST NW
$270,000 $277,000 $370,000 $389,000 $415,000 $439,900 $479,000 $499,900 $520,000 $525,000 $547,500 $585,000 $595,000 $654,000 $693,000 $407,000
4 3 4 4 3 3 3 4 3 5 4 4 4 4 3 4
SHAW 1513 4TH ST NW
$475,000
TAKOMA PARK 17 UNDERWOOD PL NW 6707 2ND ST NW 724 FERN PL NW
$263,000 $415,000 $459,000
U STREET 2241 12TH ST NW 2224 12TH ST NW
$516,000 $632,000
4 3 3 3 2 2
5511-5517 COLORADO AVE NW #501
ADAMS MORGAN 1725 LANIER PL NW #4B 2516 17TH ST NW #1 1701 KALORAMA RD NW #203 2363 CHAMPLAIN ST NW #25 1700 KALORAMA RD NW #302 1801 WYOMING AVE NW #24 1801 WYOMING AVE NW #34
16TH STREET HEIGHTS 5832 GEORGIA AVE NW #202
$136,000
1
$355,000 $479,000 $555,000 $570,000 $732,000 $539,900 $544,900
BLOOMINGDALE 149 W ST NW #14 70 RHODE ISLAND AVE NW #403 2201 2ND ST NW #31 1827 1ST ST NW #2
$283,900 $308,000 $317,900 $359,500
3
2501 K ST NW #1C 2600 PENNSYLVANIA AVE NW #304
2 2 2 2 1 2 2
FOREST HILLS
1 1 1 2
CENTRAL 2201 L ST NW #408 809 6TH ST NW #45 631 D ST NW #1230 2141 P ST NW #203
$239,000 $425,000 $440,000 $550,000
CLEVELAND PARK 3700 39TH ST NW #177 3446 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #207 3821 NEWARK ST NW #440B 4301 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #A204 3710 39TH ST NW #169 3879 RODMAN ST NW #62 3883 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #912
$200,000 $296,500 $430,000 $472,000 $549,900 $560,000 $679,000
OBSERVATORY CIRCLE 2801 NEW MEXICO AVE NW #713
$335,426
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS 3318 SHERMAN AVE NW #204 3900 14TH ST NW ##407 1308 CLIFTON ST NW #310 3900 14TH ST NW #416 1439 EUCLID ST NW #303 1442 HARVARD ST NW ##1 1423 NEWTON ST NW #201 3512 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW #1 732 LAMONT ST NW #303 1101 FAIRMONT ST NW #8 4024 14TH ST NW #3 4024 14TH ST NW #2 1442 HARVARD ST NW ##4 1361 IRVING ST NW #15 4024 14TH ST NW #4 4024 14TH ST NW #1 1215 PARK RD NW #3 1435 CHAPIN ST NW #305
$260,000 $270,000 $279,000 $289,900 $299,900 $390,000 $408,000 $432,500 $449,000 $467,000 $475,000 $482,000 $489,900 $490,000 $495,000 $500,000 $645,000 $659,000
DUPONT CIRCLE
2141 P ST NW #205 1615 Q ST NW #712 2141 P ST NW #904 WESLEY HEIGHTS 2145 N ST NW #1 4334 KLINGLE ST NW $885,000 4 1750 16TH ST NW #21 4532 MACOMB ST NW $1,195,000 5 1750 16TH ST NW #34 1230 23RD ST NW #908
CONDO
$599,000
$299,990 $315,000 $425,000 $405,000 $626,000 $630,000 $420,000
FOGGY BOTTOM 2030 F ST NW #606 3 WASHINGTON CIR NW #1003
$265,000 $365,000
0 2 1 2
0 1 2 3 3 3 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 2 2 1 0 1
3901 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #212 3901 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #510
$417,500 $805,000 $356,000 $709,000
GALLERY PLACE 400 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #807
$538,490
2 2 1 2 1
GARFIELD 2725 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #305 2619 GARFIELD ST NW #3
$350,000 $652,500
GEORGETOWN 3035 Q ST NW #1 3303 WATER ST NW #B-7
$472,500 $790,000
GLOVER PARK 3925 DAVIS PL NW #B-7 2725 39TH ST NW #401 2339 40TH PL NW ##305
$210,500 $309,000 $339,000
KALORAMA 2032-2040 BELMONT RD NW #503 2410 20TH ST NW #101 21151/2 S ST NW #2115 1808 CALIFORNIA ST NW #21 1822 VERNON ST NW #302 2123 CALIFORNIA ST NW #E5 2127 CALIFORNIA ST NW #807 1817 KALORAMA SQ NW #9
$227,000 $350,000 $478,500 $499,500 $500,000 $550,000 $692,500 $2,000,000
LEDROIT PARK 2201 2ND ST NW #35 40 ADAMS ST NW
$199,900 $484,700
LOGAN CIRCLE 1301 RHODE ISLAND AVE NW #B 1300 N ST NW #512 1245 13TH ST NW #516 1634 14TH ST NW #02 1634 14TH ST NW #502 1634 14TH ST NW #302 1634 14TH ST NW #205 1634 14TH ST NW #03 1634 14TH ST NW #405 1634 14TH ST NW ##605 1634 14TH ST NW #705 1634 14TH ST NW ##204 1634 14TH ST NW #101 1133 14TH ST NW #208 1634 14TH ST NW #303 1634 14TH ST NW ##604 1634 14TH ST NW #301 1634 14TH ST NW #501 1634 14TH ST NW #603 1410 S ST NW #1 1634 14TH ST NW #PENT 703 1410 S ST NW #2 1634 14TH ST NW #403 1324 14TH ST NW #3
$659,000 $239,900 $256,320 $299,900 $330,000 $334,900 $375,000 $397,000 $402,000 $409,900 $431,500 $496,900 $584,185 $590,000 $655,000 $660,155 $664,900 $680,753 $726,900 $845,000 $1,026,660 $1,300,000 $674,900 $794,433
MOUNT PLEASANT 2426 ONTARIO RD NW #103 1885 MONROE ST NW #4 1700 KALORAMA RD NW #301
$355,000 $499,000 $519,000
1 2 1 1 1 1 1
0 1 2 2 2 2 2 4 0 3 2 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 1 2 2 2 2 2 3 2 1 1 2 1
1823 NEWTON ST NW #210
$587,500
MOUNT VERNON TRIANGLE 440 L ST NW #1104 555 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #1212
$533,500 $377,000
OLD CITY 1 SCOTT CIR NW #320 1711 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #102 1 SCOTT CIR NW #220 910 M ST NW #206 555 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #1016 1300 13TH ST NW #102 1300 13TH ST NW #102 1423 R ST NW #206 2004 11TH ST NW #235 1616 11TH ST NW #303 440 L ST NW #311 1117 10TH ST NW #502 301 MASSACHUSETTS AVE NW #701 1340 Q ST NW #23 420-422 M ST NW #A
$228,500 $230,000 $234,000 $388,000 $418,000 $449,000 $449,000 $452,000 $485,000 $500,000 $550,000 $561,000 $575,000 $659,000 $385,000
PENN QUARTER 440 L ST NW #813 915 E ST NW #514 616 E ST NW #801 616 E ST E #854 675 E ST NW #510
$415,000 $379,000 $422,000 $560,000 $740,000
RLA (SW) 1435 4TH ST SW #B214 1250 4TH ST SW #W301
$195,000 $345,000
U STREET 1418 W ST NW #402 2250 11TH ST NW #403 1414 BELMONT ST NW #208 2120 VERMONT AVE NW #323
$361,000 $654,900 $407,500 $620,000
WEST END 2501 M ST NW #607 1155 23RD ST NW #PH3N 1177 22ND ST NW #9H
$355,000 $1,320,000 $1,749,000
2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 2 2 1 2 1 2 1 3 1 2 2
WOODLEY PARK
3100 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #302 $359,900 1
CO-OP ADAMS MORGAN 1661 CRESCENT PL NW #101 1820 CLYDESDALE PL NW #103 3025 ONTARIO RD NW #304
$349,000 $392,500 $420,000
CLEVELAND PARK 3620 CONNECTICUT NW #9 2802 DEVONSHIRE PLACE NW #205 3000 TILDEN ST NW #UNIT #1
$275,000 $370,000 $1,100,000
DUPONT CIRCLE 1701 16TH ST NW #725 1701 16TH ST NW #817 1701 16TH ST NW #716
$249,000 $390,000 $425,000
FOGGY BOTTOM 2475 VIRGINIA AVE NW #506 2475 VIRGINIA AVE NW #428 730 24TH ST NW #604 730 24TH ST NW #321 700 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE NW #717 2700 VIRGINIA AVE NW #1001
$176,000 $237,000 $251,000 $270,000 $850,000 $1,200,000
GEORGETOWN 1657 31ST ST NW #310
$290,000
KALORAMA 2122 CALIFORNIA ST NW #453 1870 WYOMING AVE NW #104 2101 CONNECTICUT AVE NW #83
$451,000 $750,000 $1,950,000
MOUNT PLEASANT 1820 CLYDESDALE PL NW #101 2707 ADAMS MILL RD NW ##308
$225,500 $235,000
TAKOMA PARK 7058 EASTERN AVE NW #309 u
$154,000
1 2 2 1 2 3 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 2 3 1 1 3 3 1 1 2
Midcity DC | MARCH 2013 u 45
CLASSIFIEDS AIR CONDITIONING
I
To place a classified in HILL RAG, please call Carolina at 202.543.8300 x12 or email: Carolina@hillrag.com.
COMPUTERS
ELECTRICIAN
AIR CONDITIONING
LANDSCAPES Redefining Beauty One Client at a Time!
Polar Bear
· Comprehensive Design and Maintenance Services · Installation, arbors, retaining walls, walkways, lighting, water features · Patios, roof top gardens, townhomes, single family homes • Trees & shrubs, formal & informal gardens • Custom Masonry, Fencing and Iron work · Restoration and Enhancement
AIR CONDITIONING PLUMBING & HEATING, INC.
202-333-1310 www.polarbearairconditioning.com
LICENSED BONDED INSURED FALL & WINTER SPECIALS FREE ESTIMATES
Over 20 years of experience
301.642.5182
www.thomaslandscapes.com
HEALTH & FITNESS CLEANING SERVICES S TANDARD C LEANING S ERVICE I NC . Commercial & Residential
Ana Julia Viera 703.719.9850 • 703.447.9254 Days Free Estimates • Bonded & Insured References Upon Request
TONY’S BOXING GYM
THOMAS LANDSCAPES Full-Service Landscape Design & Maintenance Firm Derek Thomas / Principal - Certified Professional Horticulturist, Master Gardener. Member of the MD Nursery and Landscape Association & the Association of Professional Landscape Designers
& FITNESS CENTER PROFESSIONAL & AMATEUR BOXING LESSONS s • All Types of Exercise Machine tion utri N & ng • Diet Counseli • Olympic Free Weights • Free Personal Training • Seniors Welcome · Handicap Accessible
9-5711 202-88nt Olive t Rd, NE
TO ADVERTISE IN THE CLASSIFIEDS call Carolina at 202.543.8300 x12
1216 Mou
15% Discount New Customers
PLEASE RECYCLE THIS PAPER 46 ◆ midcitydcnews.com
OPPORTUNITIES
INCOMOERTUNITY OPP
$
WANTED: Independent...motivated... profit-driven entrepreneurs! Our business is exploding. Need business partners. Will train.
Contact us at dreamteamdesk@gmail.com or call 202-670-1869 to schedule an appointment.
PLUMBING
ROOFING
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We are Repiping & Drain Cleaning Specialists · Competitive On The Spot Pricing · Same Day, Nights, Weekends & Emergency Service · Licensed Plumbers and Gasfitters · Underground Domestic Water and Sewer Line Leak Detection · Underground Pipe Locator
Hill Family Owned & Operated Call William at
(202) 255-9231 20 years of experience Licensed, Bonded and Insured LSDBE Certified
Our website just got a whole lot better!!
www.whsplumbingandheating.com
capitalcommunitynews.com
ROOFING
FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED
“50 Years Experience” All Work Managed & Inspected by Owners
G&G
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
202-425-1614 Licensed & Insured
Keith Roofing
EXPERT WORKMANSHIP
AT
REASONABLE PRICES!
Residential/Commercial • Over 40 years in Business Chimney Repairs • Storm & Wind Damage Repair
Johnston & Johnston Roofing “Try a new coating vs. a roof replacement.”
PAINTING
FLAT ROOF SPECIALISTS MODIFIED BITUMEN 10% OFF SKYLIGHTS WITH SHINGLES THIS AD SLATE CHIMNEY REPAIRS COATINGS & PAINTS GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS ALUMINUM & VINYL SIDING PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
• FLAT ROOF SPECIALIST • WATERPROOFING • ALUMINUM ASPHALT COATING • SLATE REPAIRS • SHINGLE REPAIRS • CHIMNEY REPAIR
• ALL ROOF REPAIRS • ROOF REPLACEMENTS • GUTTER REPAIR • GUTTER REPLACEMENT • INQUIRE ABOUT OUR SPECIALS • FREE ESTIMATES
We install new rubber and shingle roofs
• New or Re-Roofing • Tear-Off & Replacement • Flat Roof Specialist • Copper, Tin, Sheet Metal & Rolled • Seamless & Flat Roofs • Re-Sealing • Tar, Asphalt, Gravel, Hot Coats • Modified Bitumen • Ask about our gutter specials
Our Prices Won’t be Beat!
DANIEL PARKS Roofing & Gutters
NO JOB TOO SMALL!!! “Stopping Leaks is Our Specialty”
EMERGENCY REPAIRS WE DO IT ALL RUBBER & FLAT ROOFS WATER PROOFING SLATE ROOFS LEAK REPAIRS METAL ROOFS GUTTER REPAIRS SHINGLE ROOFING CHIMNEY REPAIRS FACIAL/SOFFITS ALUMINUM ROOF COATING
202-489-1728 Licensed, Bonded & Insured Free Estimates Senior and Government Discount 10% SPECIALIZING IN SEAMLESS GUTTERS
Insurance Claims • Free Estimates • 24Hr. Service
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All Work Inspected by Owner...Deals Directly with Customers! All Work Fully Guaranteed
AFFORDABLE & PROFESSIONAL
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Family owned & operated 40 Years Experience
202.637.8808
202-607-4038 202-487-7182
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FLAT ROOF SPECIALIST WE STOP LEAKS! • Roof Repairs • Roof Coatings • Rubber • Metal • Slate
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We Do Everything!
BOYD CONSTRUCTION INC. LIC. BONDED. INS
75 years in service
BBB
Member
202-223-ROOF (7663) Midcity DC | MARCH 2013 ◆ 47
Tell Them, “Shaw Main Streets Sent
Me!�
Shaw Main Streets is a designated DC Main Streets program and is funded in part by the Department of Small and Local Business Development, Vincent C. Gray, Mayor.