Michael Frias Owner / Broker / Property Manager
Hamlet-Nelson
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The real estate market is slow. Rates are High. Job security is shaky. Great time to be a pessimist. Or is it?
Over the long term, Real Property is still a good investment. Timing varies, and exceptions exist, but Metro areas tend to stay the course.
Renting gains you a roof over your head, a place to be warm, a place to store your stuff. Home ownership does the same, and gives you tax breaks, equity building, and pride of ownership. More responsibility, sure. More work, but it rewards you over time. Paying your landlords’ mortgage does not.
If you are looking to buy, deals are out there now. Talk to a couple of lenders and get options. Repair your credit. Save your down payment. Tighten your belt a bit (if possible, and it isn’t always) and save for your future.
IF you do decide to sell, be realistic. Not a lot of bidding wars out there. Things are selling a lot closer to assessed value. Deferred maintenance will count against you. Quirky taste choices may eliminate buyers.
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We welcome suggestions for stories. Send queries to andrew@hillrag.com. We are also interested in your views on community issues which are published in the Last Word. Please limit your comments to 250 words. Letters may be edited for space. Please include your name, address and phone number. Send Last Word submissions to lastword@hillrag.com. For employment opportunities email jobs@hillrag.com.
Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens, 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE, is a unique destination within Anacostia Park and a hidden gem in DC. The summer lotus and lily blossoms are a must-see during their peak blooming period in July. The 2025 Lotus & Water Lily Festival is from Friday, July 18, at 8 a.m., through Sunday, July 20, at 8 p.m., and features information tables, arts and crafts, tours and cultural performances. Lawn chairs and blankets are welcome as are dogs on leash. www.nps.gov/keaq
“Vivian Browne: My Kind of Protest” at the Phillips “Vivian Browne: My Kind of Protest,” on view at the Phillips Collection, 1600 21st. St. NE, through Sept. 28, is the first museum retrospective of the artist, activist and educator Vivian Browne (1929-93). The exhibition offers more than 60 paintings and works on paper from several key series. It uncovers the depth of Browne’s extensive career and her enduring commitment to activism and education. www.phillipscollection.org
On Saturday, Aug. 2, from 5 to 8 p.m., Shark Bites and Brews returns with shark-themed fun. Ride the mechanical shark on Transit Pier, listen to live music on the Floating Stage, party like a shark and play games while you “fin”ish with a shark hat and other Pacifico swag. Sign up for the doughnuteating contest and be the first shark to devour the desserts. Free admission. www.wharfdc.com
Visitors of this new exhibition at the National Museum of American History, third floor east, can follow the project to preserve the gunboat “USS Philadelphia,” part of a small American fleet built in the summer of 1776. Sunk during battle, the vessel was raised and eventually moved to the museum, where conservators are assessing its condition. www.americanhistory.si.edu/explore/projects/gunboat-philadelphia
“Apropos of Nothing, a Comedy” at the Keegan Owen confesses, apropos of nothing, that he’s in love with his best friend’s wife. But it’s just “a passing phase,” he tells him. Unfortunately, now that it’s out there, everyone’s lives are suddenly turned upside down. With the help of a precocious millennial all parties examine their lives and relationships for the first time. Tickets are $54 (plus $5 fee) for adults, $44 for seniors, students and under 25. “Apropos of Nothing, a Comedy” is at Keegan Theater, 1742 Church St. NW, from July 12 to Aug. 10. www.keegantheatre.com
“How the Sausage Gets Made” at CHAW Freshman Congressman Nathan Newbright explodes onto the DC political scene with hope and gumption to accomplish the impossible: passing a bill. In this political comedy, Newbright navigates the duality that the purpose of government is to help people, but it is run by … people. Faction of Fools’ “How the Sausage Gets Made” is at the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop (CHAW), 545 Seventh St. SE, from July 17 to Aug. 9. Tickets are $27 (pay-it-forward price, $37, child price or times-are-tough price, $17). Family-friendly, contains some PG-13 humor. www. factionoffools.org
The Goons hardcore/punk band from the DC area blasts high-octane, aggressive rock. Their 1996 debut, “Living in America,” was called a “ravenous punk onslaught” by Suburban Voice. Hear them at Black Cat, 1811 14th St. NW, on Saturday, July 19, doors at 8 p.m. Advance tickets are $25.13 with online fee. www. blackcatdc.com
“Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” at the National When Harry Potter’s headstrong son Albus befriends the son of his fiercest rival, Draco Malfoy, it sparks a journey with the power to change the past and future. Prepare for a race through time, brought to life with the most astonishing theatrical magic ever seen on stage. Tickets start at $66. “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” is at the National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, from July 8 to Sept. 7. www. broadwayatthenational.com
A blend of theater, gaming and storytelling, this show is for you whether you are curious about D&D, a diehard gamer or a lover of adventure. Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the role-playing game in an interactive adventure on stage and a room full of your newest friends. “Dungeons & Dragons the Twenty-Sided Tavern” is at the Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater from July 22 to Aug. 3. Tickets are $39 to $159. www. kennedy-center.org
On Tuesday, July 15, at 8:00 p.m. (gates at 6:30 p.m.), enjoy a night of heartfelt musical storytelling and close harmonies. Iron & Wine, the project of singer/songwriter Sam Beam, features cinematic songs like “Cinder and Smoke,” “Flightless Bird, American Mouth” and his version of the Postal Service’s “Such Great Heights.” Acoustic savants and songwriters Sara Watkins, Sarah Jarosz and Aoife O’Donovan join as the female folk supergroup I’m With Her. Tickets start at $51.50. www. wolftrap.org
Buffalo Rose is a six-piece modern folk/Americana band from Pittsburgh that performs original songs inspired by idiosyncratic influences. The band’s most recent release, “Again, Again, Again,” brings a sophisticated sound to well-crafted songs. Buffalo Rose is at the Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, on Sunday, July 13, from 5 to 7 p.m. Tickets are $20. www.hillcenterdc.org
On Sunday, July 27, at 4:30 p.m., at Rhizome DC, 6950 Maple St. NW, Jen Chapin, accompanied by bassist Stephan Crump and melodist Jamie Fox on electric guitar, will debut a cabaret-style performance entitled “Anything Goes, and How Did We Get Here?” The two-set show weaves jazz-inspired questions and answers about our current political moment around selections from Chapin’s urban folk catalog. Tickets are $20 to $25. www.rhizomedc.org
On Friday, July 11, at 8 p.m., Josh Blue headlines an evening featuring some of the funniest comedians with disabilities at The Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW. Comedy without Limits brings together standup talent for a night of humor, heart and inclusion. On Saturday, July 12, at 8 p.m., Kodi Lee, Mandy Harvey and a lineup of artists with disabilities will provide music and inspiration as they celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Your ticket to WAWABILITY includes complimentary access to the WAWABILITY Technology Expo before the show. Doors open at 5 p.m., giving the chance to explore cutting-edge accessibility innovations, enjoy music from live DJs and connect with industry leaders. Tickets start at $63; two-night pass, $106. www.theanthemdc.com
On Monday, July 14, at 7:00 and 9:30 p.m., experience the vocal stylings of award-winning soul and jazz singer-songwriter Kemi Adegoroye. Join her at Blues Alley, 1037 (Rear) Wisconsin Ave. NW, for an evening of musical moments filled with reimagined jazz standards, Motown classics and genre-blending original songs. Admission is $25 plus $7 fees. www. bluesalley.com
Congratulations to my wonderful wife on 10 years of healing and heart. You’ve created a space of peace and wellness for our community. I’m incredibly proud of you and all that you’ve accomplished.
• Dual-trained in Prosthodontics & Periodontics
• Trusted by DC’s medical and dental community for complex restorations
• Emphasis on tooth preservation, minimally invasive implant dentistry, and a esthetic excellence
That’s what Sarah, a patient from Capitol Hill, shared during her first visit to our office.
As a board-certified prosthodontist, my first step is always to listen — not extract.
We reviewed her options, performed a detailed exam, and found that her natural tooth could be saved with a thoughtful, minimally invasive approach. Three months later, she still has her tooth — pain-free, functional, and smiling confidently.
The Purcellville Wine & Food Festival on Saturday, July 19, from 2 to 8 p.m. (rain or shine), takes place in the heart of wine country, Purcellville, Virginia, at Fireman’s Field Park. General admission tickets may be purchased online through July 18 for $6.30, including fee. Single-drink tickets, wine or beer, are $8.40. Bottle-of-wine tickets are $35. Prices go up on the day of the event. All tickets sold day-of at the gate are $10. Children 16 and under get in free but need an admission ticket. Purcellville is a little over an hour from DC via Virginia Rte. 267E. www.purcellvillewineandfood.com
The Montgomery County Agricultural Fair (and carnival) is at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds, 501 Perry Pkwy, in Gaithersburg, Maryland, from Aug. 8 to 16. On opening day, Friday, Aug. 8, the fair and carnival are open 3 p.m. to midnight. Except for Aug. 8, fair hours are 10 a.m. to midnight; carnival hours are noon to midnight. General admission is $18 onsite ($13.88 online) and kids 11 and under are free. Parking is $20. Discounts are available at www.mcagfair. com/fair-info/fair-on-a-budget.
From July 16 to 19, West Virginia’s Branch Mountain Bluegrass Festival offers four days of music. Each day is packed with national, regional and local talents in a family setting. Join the jam sessions and meet and greet the bands. A lesson tent spotlights new jamming techniques and songs. Tickets: Wednesday, $23.18; Thursday, $33.85; Friday, $39.19; Saturday, $44.52. A four-day pass is $92.55. The festival is at 1224 Powder Spring Rd., Moorefield, West Virginia, about 120 miles from DC. See the schedule at www.westvirginiasbranchmountainbluegrassfestival.com/schedule.
After 14 years at the Lake Arbor Community Center, the Lake Arbor Jazz Saturday Festival is taking its music and music community to Spirit Park at National Harbor, Maryland. On Saturday, July 19, noon to 4 p.m., enjoy food vendors, onsite beer and wine lounge, VIP private tents and live music. Performing on the main stage is bassist Julian Vaughn with saxophonist and vocalist Marqueal Jordan. Bring summer white casual wear and cap as they pay tribute to Frankie Beverly featuring the We Are One Xperience Band. Tickets are $71.09 (including fee). www.lakearborjazz.com
Brought to You by Schneider's of Capitol Hill
“A Wrinkle in Time” at Arena Stage. Through July 20. The mysterious disappearance of Meg Murry’s father sends her on an intergalactic quest in this world-premiere musical adaptation of the Newbery Medal-winning novel. Tickets start at $69. Arena Stage is at 1101 Sixth St. SW. www.arenastage.org
Putt across America at The Wharf. Through Sept. 1, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., daily. Embark on a coast-to-coast journey with Putt across America at The Wharf. This 4D mini-golf experience includes 18 holes inspired by iconic landmarks, cities and natural features. Putt across America is at 580 Water St. SW in The Terrace at The Wharf. www.wharfdc.com
Upcoming DC United Matches at Audi Field. July 5, 6:30 p.m., vs. Atlanta; July 26, 6:30 p.m., vs. Austin. Tickets start at $29. www. dcunited.com
Sing Out Piano Bar and Open Mic with Gay Men’s Chorus. July 9 and Aug. 13, from 7:30 to 11:00 p.m. Sing with live piano accompaniment or just enjoy the music. Free admission. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. www.atlasarts.org
Rock the Dock Free Summer Concerts on Transit Pier. Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Here is the remaining lineup: July 9, Hot Cactus (party hits); July 16, Secret Society (feel good music); July 23, The HariKaraoke Band (special karaoke band); July 30, So Fetch (2000s hits); Aug. 6, The JoGo Project (go-go/funk); Aug. 13, DuPont Brass (big horns/ electric soul); Aug. 20, Uncle Jesse (90s pop); Aug. 27, Pink PaLiSh (funk/ soul). www.wharfdc.com/rockthedock
LOC Movies on the Lawn Presents National Film Registry Selections. Thursdays at Sundown. July 10, “The Princess Bride” (1985); July 17, “The Goonies” (1985); July 24, “Spy Kids” (2001); July 31, “The Muppet Movie” (1979);
Upcoming Nats Home Games. July 4, 11:05 a.m., July 5, 4:05 p.m., and July 6, 1:35 p.m., vs. Red Sox. July 18 and 19, 6:45 p.m., and July 20, 1:35 p.m., vs. Padres. July 21 and 22, 6:45 p.m., and July 23, 12:05 p.m., vs. Reds. Aug. 1, 6:45 p.m., Aug. 2, 4:05 p.m., and Aug. 3, 1:35 p.m., vs. Brewers. District tickets for as little as $5. www.mlb.com/ nationals
Aug. 7, “Jurassic Park” (1993). Movies are screened on the southeast lawn of the Thomas Jefferson Building. No tickets required. www.loc.gov
SW Night Market. 4 to 10 p.m. on July 11 and 25, Aug. 8 and 22 and Sept. 5 and 19. Southwest DC’s eclectic night market, at Fourth and M, returns with a mix of art, crafts, handmade jewelry, accessories, bath and beauty goods and vintage and antique furnishings. Specialty food businesses, a beer garden, cigar lounge and food trucks add to the mix. Family and pet friendly. www.marketswdc.com
Union Market Friday Night Drive-In Movies. July 11, “National Treasure”; Aug. 9, “Monsters Inc.”; Sept. 12, “Wicked”; Oct. 3, “Clue.” Each movie showing costs $20 per car. No tickets are needed to watch the movie on Neal Place. www.unionmarketdc.com
Hill Center Concerts. July 11, from 7 to 9 p.m., Thrilling Upcycled Celtic Folk Trio House of Hamill in Concert; July 13, from 7 to 9 p.m., Modern Folk/Americana Sextet Buffalo Rose. Concerts are $20. Hill Center, 621 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. www.hillcenterdc.org
Capitol Riverfront Free Summer Concerts at the Yards Park Boardwalk. Fridays, 7 to 9 p.m. The band lineup: July 11, Perfekt Blend; July 18, Downtown Tumbao; July 25, Big Tony and Trouble Funk; Aug. 1, Uncle Jesse. www.capitolriverfront.org/do/summer-concert-series-2025
NE Library Used Book Sale. July 12, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Northeast Library is at 330 Seventh St. NE (corner of Seventh Street and Maryland Avenue). www.dclibrary.org
DC Moth StorySLAM: “DIRT” at Miracle Theatre. July 14, 7:30 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.). Prepare a five-minute story about what lies beneath. Air out your dirty laundry and don’t leave out the filthy details. $20.40. Miracle Theatre is at 535 Eighth St. SE. www.themiracletheatre.com
Flashback Fridays at Miracle Theatre. July 16 and 18, at 7 p.m., “Citizen Kane”; July 30 and Aug. 1, at 7 p.m., “Arsenic and Old Lace”; Aug. 20 and 22, at 7 p.m., “The Maltese Falcon.” Tickets $10. Miracle Theatre is at 535 Eighth St. SE. www.themiracletheatre.com
Live Music at the Botanic Garden. July 17, Aug. 21 and Sept. 18. The garden offers extended hours, open until 8 p.m., with live music and food and drinks vendors. www. usbg.gov
National Cannabis Festival at RFK Campus (Lot 8). July 18, from 4 to 11 p.m.; and July 19, from 2 to 11 p.m. Celebrate legal weed with two days of live music, munchies, exhibitors and more. General admission passes are $55 on Friday and $65 on Saturday. www.nationalcannabisfestival.com
VOCA (Visionaries of the Creative Arts): “A Strange Loop” at the Atlas. July 23 to Aug. 10. Usher, a Black, deaf queer writer composes a musical about a Black, deaf queer writer. This work exposes the soul of a young artist grappling with desires, identity and instincts he both loves and loathes. Tickets $45.25. Adults only. www.atlasarts.org
Movies at the Plaza at Union Market. Fridays: July 25, at 7:30 p.m., “E.T. The Extra Terrestrial”; Aug. 29, at 7:30 p.m., “Ferris Bueller’s Day-Off”; Sept. 26, at 7:30 p.m., “Top Gun”; Oct. 17, at 6:30 p.m., “Ghostbusters.” Enjoy classic films under the stars. Bring blankets and lawn chairs and relax with friends. The Movies at the Plaza, 1325 Fifth
St. NE, are free and open to the public. www. unionmarketdc.com/events
Music in the Meadow: Buck Forty Nine. July 25, from 6 to 8 p.m. Stomp to Buck Forty Nine’s Americana vibes as the sun sets over the National Arboretum’s Capitol Columns. This concert is free to attend, but a $15 suggested donation to FONA is encouraged. www.fona.org
Trail Running Film Festival at Miracle Theatre. July 31, from 7 to 9 p.m. This festival documents the culture of trail running, hosting events that bring our community together. “Elite Heart,” 13 min.; “The Pointe Pessey,” 18 min.; “Our Terrain,” 30 min.; “Talk to Frank,” 5 min.; “We Are Here. We Run Long,” eight min.; “Halfway to Crazy,” 33 min. $22. Miracle Theatre is at 535 Eighth St. SE. www.themiracletheatre.com
Movies on the Pitch. Aug. 7, 13, 21 and 28, from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. (gates at 6:30 p.m.). The Capitol Riverfront BID partners with Audi Field to bring outdoor movies to the soccer stadium pitch. This free series invites attendees to sit on the grass at Audi Field to watch family-friendly blockbusters on the Jumbotron. Lineup of movies to come. www.capitolriverfront.org u
A National Treasure: The Library of Congress. This curated display celebrates the history of the Thomas Jefferson Building, which opened to the public on Nov. 1, 1897. Featuring the works of more than 40 American sculptors and painters, it was the first building in DC designed with electric lighting. Thomas Jefferson Building Southwest Gallery, 10 First St. SE. www.loc.gov
CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE DAY WITH THE JULY MIXED CASE SPECIAL!
6 Reds for a backyard barbecue and dining alfresco, 4 zesty whites, one rosé and one true Champagne. This case has everything you need for summer entertaining.
Retail Price: $566.88
Sale Price: $357.88
Mixed Case Club Price: $311.99 45% off Retail!
Congratulations to the Winners of our Annual Pet Photo Contest!
Besides looking for submissions that are well-composed, our judges like photos that tell stories or ones that say something true about our companion animals or our bond with them. They admired the ability of these shots to make the viewer stop and take in the pure joy of a pup basking in the sun, or the poise of the cat posing for his painting, or the companionship of two beautiful cat buddies. On the following pages are the winners of our other categories. Thanks to everyone who participated in our ever popular Pet Photo Contest.
st place place place 2 nd
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1 st place place place 2 nd
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1 st place place place 2 nd
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Long Lunch: Paella with Chef Mark Haskell
Friday, July 11, 11:00am
Macarons with Chef Wendi James Monday, July 14, 6:00pm
Kitchen 101: Knife Skills with Chef Wendi James
Tuesday, July 15, 6:00pm
Long Lunch: Pizza + Flatbreads
Workshop With Chef Mark Haskell
Friday, July 18, 11:00am
Discover The Terroir: A Maryland and Virginia Wine Journey
Saturday, July 19, 2:00pm
On the Noodle Road Featuring Jen Lin-Liu: The Chinese Dinner Party
Sunday, July 20, 11:00am
French Cuisine Basics: Getting Saucy! The Foundational Sauces
Monday, July 21, 6:00pm
Favorite Summer Tomato Dishes
Featuring Veteran Food Writer
Bonnie Benwick
Saturday, July 26, 11:00am CONCERTS
Mr. Gabe: Family Fun Concerts
Friday, July 11, 5:00pm
Thrilling Upcycled Celtic Folk Trio
House of Hamill in Concert
Friday, July 11, 7:00pm
Stone Room Concerts @ Hill Center
Featuring “Buffalo Rose” Modern Folk/ Americana Sextet
Sunday, July 13, 5:00pm
Uncle Devin: Family Fun Day Concert
Friday, July 18, 5:00pm
Groovy Nate: Family Fun Concerts
Friday, July 25, 5:00pm
Programmatic support provided by the Capitol Hill Community Foundation and the DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities.
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1 st place place place 2 nd
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place 2 nd
by Melonie San Pietro
There are over 4.5 million dog bites reported each year in the United States. Children are the victims in more than half of these incidents. While random aggressive attacks do happen, they are rare. An astounding 80 percent of bites occur at home by a familiar dog. It’s clear that kids are getting bit by the family dog – a lot. Circumstances are never identical, but addressing three key factors will prevent most bites: socializing dogs early, understanding basic dog body language and taking specific steps at home to create a safe environment.
There are lots of factors at play in dog socialization, but here are three big ones: breed, temperament and environment. It’s true that some dogs are naturally better adjusted to family life simply based on their breed and temperament. But it’s not enough to adopt the most confident dog in a litter from a reputable breeder. Once the dog comes home, the work is just beginning. Proper socialization is the biggest indicator of a well-adjusted dog. There is a timeline, though. The prime socialization period for all dogs ends
at only four months of age. So, for a dog to be foundationally good with children, it’s crucial to positively expose your young puppy to as many kids as possible before the socialization period closes. Each time your puppy sees or interacts with a child they should receive a treat, praise, gentle pats or appropriate play. Your puppy will soon develop a positive association with children that will stay with them their entire lives. On the flip side, if your puppy meets children who hurt them, take their toys, play too rough and yell, they will develop a negative association that will be extremely difficult to reverse. Children have a responsibility too. They should learn how to properly interact with dogs. Even the most patient, well-socialized dog will resort to biting if a child continually mistreats them. It is the caretaker’s job to teach and intervene. A traumatic experience with a child at any point can reverse the positive association you’ve worked so hard to build.
Dogs do an amazing job of understanding what we want from them, but we do not often reciprocate. Dog-human communication is largely one-sided and I’d argue that understanding basic dog body language is even more important than training in everyday life with dogs. Barring larger psychological or physical issues, dogs always give signs before they resort to biting. Common stress signals include whale eye, lip licking, lying on its back and, of course, growling. Dog owners should familiarize themselves with the ladder of aggression. It explains the signals a dog is likely to give before they escalate to a bite.
Dogs who are punished for growling or displaying any of these signs will jump to the bite more quickly. Growling is an invaluable communication tool because it is impossible to miss. This is your dog’s last ditch effort to tell you they are extremely agitated and need to be removed from the situation immediately.
Studies show that children are remarkably bad at decoding dog body language because they rely heavily on facial cues – something that is hard to recognize in dogs. The safest thing to do is teach your kids never to approach any dog abruptly, even their own.
A great way to get kids to stop approaching dogs is to give them an alternate behavior. I tell my kids that this dog is busy and would prefer a wave and a “hello.” As they get older you can also compare the dog’s feelings to their own feelings. “Would you like it if a stranger came up to you and touched or hugged you?” This helps the child empathize with the dog and is especially important when meeting dogs outside the home. With the exception of puppies, nine of out of ten dogs do not want to interact with strangers – children or adults.
Several things should happen in homes with dogs and children. Caretakers should provide a child-free space for the dog. Well-adjust -
ed dogs will retreat to that safe space when stressed. Less condent dogs might need help getting there. Expect that some dogs might never understand the ability to walk away without help. Dogs and children should never be in tight spaces together: doorways, small bathrooms, playroom corners, under tables or staircases. Ensure children never access things the dog values: bed, crate, treats, toys, food or water bowls. Use gates to create barriers.
Don’t let children approach a sleeping, resting or eating dog. And nally, never leave dogs and children alone unsupervised. Creating a safe environment for dogs and children is a lifelong commitment. Every dog can bite, regardless of breed, temperament or well-adjusted they are. But knowledge is power. By understanding the vital importance of socialization, learning to read your dog’s cues and actively creating a safe and respectful home environment, you’re not just preventing bites - you’re fostering a lasting bond between your children and their dog and you’re creating a life where everyone can thrive, safely and joyfully.
Melonie has a master’s degree in canine science, is a certi ed trainer and has owned Wanderpups for over a decade. She is dedicated to helping people and dogs understand one another so they can not only live together, but thrive together. She’s also an Air Force veteran and lives on the Hill with her husband, two young daughters, and a scruffy terrier named Jax.
by Je’ree Hamlet-Nelson
Pet emergencies don’t always come with big yelps and open wounds. Sometimes an emergency is disguised as a minor limp, a sad whine, or refusal to eat. Pet parents are often faced with one of the most stressful questions: “Is this serious enough to go to the ER?”
Veterinary professionals understand that the decision to take your pet for care is not easy to make, but every moment a pet owner waits could change the outcome of a pet’s health. Like in human healthcare, one needs answers quickly. There are some key indicators of when you should call or go right to the emergency vet. Ask yourself:
“Is this behavior normal for my pet?” You know your pet best. Anything that seems “off” could mean a health problem. Anytime a pet is showing signs or symptoms that aren’t quite the norm, it should be cause for concern. An owner might think, “Maybe it will go away.” But what if it doesn’t?
One of the hardest parts of being responsible for a pet is knowing when to act fast and when to wait it out. Questions like, “Am I overreacting?” or “Can I afford care?” may run through an owner’s mind, but the real question they should be asking is, “How do I know if it’s an emergency?”
When a pet owner calls a vet hospital, they might think that a vet will always tell them to bring their pet in, but that’s not always the case. Sometimes a pet will develop a symptom that one can wait out and that will go away on its own. Other times, a vet may ask the owner to bring the pet in for a better look.
An ER vet will be able to diagnose more accurately if you provide them with important information, like:
• When did your pet start showing signs of a problem?
• How long has this been going on?
• Has this ever happened before?
The vet will also ask your pet’s age, as senior pets may not handle an illness or injury as well as a younger pet.
You might want to make the decision for emergency care all on your own, after all, it is your pet! But the trouble is, just like you shouldn’t selfdiagnose, no one should try to decide whether their pet requires a trip to the ER. Only a knowledgeable, trained emergency vet can make this decision.
There may be times where an emergency vet tells an owner that their pet’s condition can wait to be seen by their primary care veterinarian. However, if their regular veterinarian is unavailable or closed, emergency care might be the only option. Keep in mind that sudden or severe symptoms, like seizures, collapse, difficulty breathing, or uncontrolled bleeding, require immediate attention. Chronic issues that worsen suddenly may also call for emergency intervention.
Another reason that pet owners may delay care for their pet in an emergency is the cost. Emergency care may cost more than a typical vet visit, due to the crisis-mitigating care each pet is receiving. There is diagnostic testing to start, then treatment, possible surgery, and overnight hospitalization. These can all raise the invoice total. However, the cost of care pales in comparison to the cost of waiting.
Delaying treatment can end up costing more in the long run. Here’s how it breaks down: a pet with an accidental ingestion may be helped by fluids and monitoring. But if the pet is not seen for hours, what was ingested may travel further along the digestive tract, which may require surgery to remove. Worse yet, depending on what was ingested, a pet could be in grave danger without initially showing symptoms.
Most emergency vets are open 24 hours a day because pet accidents and injuries don’t just happen during the day. When a pet is brought into an emergency hospital, the patient is triaged and prioritized immediately.
In some clinics, such as VEG ER, rooms are designed with an open concept. This allows the owner and patient to walk right into the exam area, rather than wait in a lobby. The expansive view of the ER also allows customers to see the life-saving heroics up close. Owners aren’t kept in the dark while a pet is being examined; they stay with their pets throughout treatment and can even watch their pet’s surgery from a large viewing window.
A worried pet owner wants only the best for their pet who may be facing a health crisis. That usually means a compassionate vet team that’s knowledgeable and intensively trained for emergencies.
Je’ree Hamlet-Nelson is Veterinary Hospital Manager with VEG ER (Veterinary Emergency Group) at 925 H St NE. (202-724-8002), www.veterinaryemergencygroup.com. u
by Dan Teich, DVM
Abit of editorializing here: the current past few months have felt like a wart. So let’s channel a bit of angst and talk about actual warts!
Dogs get warts. Really. And in strange places, too. Most commonly we see wart-like growths in the mouth. These are called papillomas and they typically appear in or around a young dog’s mouth. These are caused by a virus called canine papillomavirus type 1 (CPV1). They’re common in puppies and young dogs with immature immune systems and may also a ect dogs with weakened immunity (such as those on immunosuppressive medication, sometimes Apoquel®).
These growths often look like tiny sea anemones or pieces of cauli ower and are usually found on the lips, inside the mouth, on the tongue, or sometimes near the eyes. They often appear in groups. If you spot one, it’s worth checking for others.
Oral papillomas spread through direct contact with infected dogs or shared items like toys, water bowls, or bedding. The virus can enter the body through tiny breaks in the skin, and it takes about 1–2 months after exposure for the growths to appear. It’s commonly spread in dog parks via sharing toys.
The good news is that oral papillomas are almost always harmless and temporary. Most cases resolve on their own within a few weeks to two months as the dog’s immune system kicks in. Dogs that recover usually become immune to that particular virus strain. It’s unusual for a dog to not have at least one papilloma over the course of its life; you may simply not have noticed it.
Occasionally, if the papillomas become infected by mouth bacteria or grow so large that they interfere with eating or swallowing, treatment may be needed. Treatment options in-
clude surgical removal, antibiotics for secondary infections, or rarely creation of a vaccine from crushed papilloma tissues. Gently squeezing the papilloma (moderate trauma to the wart) may help speed its disappearance. Papillomas that linger longer than a few months should be examined, and possibly biopsied.
Good news is that the canine papilloma virus does not a ect humans! Washing hands after coming into contact with a papilloma is recommended, though.
Papillomas can appear on other places including the skin and especially on the toes where the toe pad meets skin. These can look ugly and may not resemble a cauli ower as the papilloma may be inverted. Foot papillomas may be painful, but these, too usually resolve within a few weeks to month. An antiin ammatory and foot-soaks may be needed.
There you have it: dogs get warts, but these go away on their own.
On a more seasonable note, summer has arrived! May was unusually pleasant, with low ambient temperatures and seasonable amounts of rain. Well, that’s o the table. A pleasant reminder to all: your pets are not acclimated to this heat! We aren’t dealing with African wild dogs or cats on the Serengeti. Use appropriate caution in regards to times of day for constitutionals, avoiding long walks during peak sun. In the mornings and evenings, when the sun is lower on the horizon, shadow-hop with your dog and try to stay on grass as much as possible. Think you’re hot? Place your hand on a brick sidewalk that’s been baking in the sun for a few hours. And just because you take water with you, please recall that your dog can readily overheat, especially when its hot and humid.
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
Hundreds of people lined the street between William H. Rumsey Aquatic Center and Lincoln Park as DC Fire Emergency Medical Services (DC FEMS) marked 100 years since the department switched from horse-drawn fire engines to engine-powered vehicles. And they celebrated in the same way it was done in 1925. Back then, three horses called Martin, Gene and Tom pulled the steam powered pump, engine 18, down North Carolina Ave. SE from firehouse Engine #8 to Lincoln Park before they were retired, literally put out to pasture, at the end of their careers as the last of the fire horses.
On June 15, 2025, three different horses named Wally, Coyote and Gracie were called from pasture at Benchfield Farms to pull the very same engine down the very same route. While much was the same along the historic route, there has also been change. Rumsey Pool is now lo-
cated where Engine #8 used to be.
Change came to the run of the horses, as well. Whereas the 1925 run was an all-out sprint, with motorcycle officers struggling to keep up with the team, the 2025 procession went at more of a trot both for reasons of visibility and the safety of the crowd, which appeared to be nearly as large as at the original event, lining the avenue all the way to Lincoln Park.
Assistant DC FEMS Chief Anthony Kelleher said that the original moment was a celebration rather than a farewell. It was acknowledgement of an era that shaped the fire service of the District, “an era in which strength, loyalty and courage were embodied, not just by the firefighters who donned the uniform, but also the magnificent animals that took firemen at District firehouses to fight fires for several decades,” he said in remarks to the crowd.
The transition from horse drawn steam fire engines to motorized apparatus marked a technological revolution in firefighting, Kelleher continued, shortening response times and modernizing the fire service. But, he added, “there was still something deep about the bond between firefighters and a horse in unspoken trust, a partnership forged an urgency of battle against the relentless force of fire.”
During the original run fire bells were sounded in fire stations three times, one for each member of the horse team in each firehouse. Fire-
ghters stood at attention. “We remain bound to the past by the same principles, duty, honor, sacri ce and service,” Kelleher said.
The engine was preserved by the Friendship Fire Association, which preserves the memory of the re ghters of DCFEMS and their work and sacrifice. Attendees, many former re ghters in the District and area, took turns being photographed with it. It can be viewed at DCFD Engine #3 (439 New Jersey Ave NW, 202-6731709), the site of the volunteer-run DC FEMS museum. If you plan to go, call ahead to schedule a visit.
Several Dalmatians were also in attendance, fitting given their historic association as rehouse mascots. The breed’s natural compatibility with horses once made them invaluable for clearing the way and calming the teams as
they raced through city streets toward fires. Some of the Dalmatians present were affiliated with the volunteers, but others came with community members like Victoria and William, who attended the Lincoln Park event with their dogs, Diesel and Moxie.
The dogs were a hit with the children at the event, many of whom stopped to take photos with Moxie—who even has his own Instagram account (@ moxiethedal). Kids also lavished attention on the fire engine horses—Wally, Coyote, and Gracie—who stood with patient dignity on the 1300 block of East Capitol Street SE. Nearby, families enjoyed lemonade and popcorn balls provided by the Friendship Fire Association.
DC Fire and EMS Foundation Executive Director Amy Mauro was at the event dressed in period attire. The organization supports firefighters by helping to provide for their unbudgeted needs. Last year, they created a website telling the history of the department. It features live footage of the original run of the horses. They also helped to support this event, with help from Diverse Market Management (managers of the flea market at Eastern Market).
“I grew up on Capitol Hill, right on this block, actually,” Mauro said, her back to the 700 block of North Carolina Avenue SE. “And I’m looking around today and I’m appreciating that this is what this community is all about, which is coming together with love and joy to support each other [and] to support our community.” u
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
Work has begun on a new DC Archives building—but Mayor Muriel Bowser has proposed cutting the project from the FY2026 budget, even though DC has already invested $44 million in it.
The archives building has been in development for over a decade. Demolition is underway on the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) campus to clear the site. Renowned architects Hartman Cox and Gilbane Building Company are on board. Permits are in place, and completion was expected by summer 2026.
Now, all of that is in jeopardy, with the project slashed from the FY2026 budget before DC Council. This could end a 20-year effort that
had finally broken ground. Bowser says the price tag has ballooned from $103 million to $150 million.
“When I was thinking about the additional $50 million in capital investment, I had to compete it with other things,” she said in May.
But a proper archives facility is badly needed, said Hill resident Trudy Huskamp Peterson, former acting Archivist of the United States and Chair of the DC Archives Advisory Group.
Currently, DC’s archives are split among locations. Staff work out of a former horse stable at 1300 Naylor Court NW, while documents are scattered in various storage sites, including the National Archives in Suitland, MD.
The new building would bring historic records from all District agencies under one roof—schools,
police, fire, and temporary city documents—as well as the UDC archives and Felix E. Grant Jazz Archives.
“So close, so close,” said Huskamp Peterson, who has been pushing for the project for more than twenty years. “I mean, when you walk through the demolition site— when you look at the final plans, when you look at all the permitting — it’s just breathtaking that the mayor would pull out at this time.”
Peterson had already started planning for the opening ceremony, suggesting to the city archivist that dignitaries use shovels from historic groundbreakings now stored in the archives.
“This decision puts the most important collection of DC history at significant risk,” said Kimberly Bender, President of the DC Archives Foundation. “To fund a half-billion-dollar stadium and eliminate this project is a sad reflection of our city’s values.”
Bowser’s budget proposes $850 million for an NFL stadium at RFK, also under Council review.
Carl Bergman, a former Deputy DC Auditor and now a member of the Friends of the DC Archives, noted DC is the only U.S. jurisdiction without a dedicated archive.
“The Naylor Court archives is the worst facility under the American flag for archives,” Bergman said. He’s visited several. Yet DC’s collection includes national treasures— the will of Frederick Douglass and
the marriage license of Loving v. Virginia plaintiffs Mildred Jeter and Richard Loving.
“This is not a collection of parking tickets,” Bergman said. “There are things there that you won’t find any place else.”
The Mayor’s Office referred comment to the Office of the City Administrator (OCA), which said the project became “too large and expensive.” They propose moving front office functions to Charles Sumner School, already home to DC Public Schools archives and museum, and building a “state-of-the-art warehouse.” The FY2026 budget allocates $28 million for the plan, with $4.9 million for improvements to Sumner, last renovated in 1986.
But the Archives Foundation says that’s not enough. The building lacks a loading dock, space is limited, and $23 million won’t fund an archival annex—let alone a true archival facility.
“An archive is not a warehouse,” the Foundation said in a press release. Archives require specialized HVAC, security, and public access systems. If records must be retrieved from off-site storage, operational costs would increase—something already happening.
DC spent over $900,000 on off-site storage at NARA alone in FY2025. Full costs are unclear since rent is often paid by agencies that created the records.
early 2025, prior to the Mayor’s announcement. Image: HartmanCox, from July 20, 2023 CFA review
Bowser proposes $25 million for student housing at the UDC archive site. How the Mayor’s O ce calculated that amount is unclear, as is UDC’s preference. The university didn’t respond to repeated requests for comment.
OCA said “student housing is a top priority for UDC,” and that university o cials were “excited” about the designation. While UDC currently o ers housing in two nearby complexes, the population needing it is small. In Fall 2024, only 18% of the 3,211 full-time students lived outside the DMV.
“I’ve asked UDC to make a better case for student housing,” said DC Council Chair Phil Mendelson at a June 2 brie ng. “But we still need an archive.” He called the current DC Archives “unacceptable.”
Mendelson rejected the cost justi cation, saying the $150 million estimate is “unvetted [and] untested.” He called for a cost analysis and said canceling the project after millions already spent is wasteful. Instead, he suggested reviewing the plans for savings.
OCA said that’s what they’re doing—
scaling back the project and allowing UDC to prioritize housing.
Huskamp Peterson supports reducing the plan, suggesting delaying shelving installation and building a single- oor structure prepared for expansion. She also suggested exploring funding from lottery revenues, as the UK does, and seeking private contributions.
“Mr. Rubenstein, how about helping us with this project?” she said, referring to philanthropist David Rubenstein. “Happy to name it the David Rubenstein Research Facility.”
Huskamp Peterson, the Friends of the DC Archives and the DC Archives Foundation are ghting to keep the project alive. Multiple archival organizations have joined in the chorus.
In a letter to Mayor Bowser opposing the project cancelation, Joy M. Banks, Executive Director of the Council of State Archivists (CoSA) said the investment would preserve the complex history of the capital and its residents. “At a time when public access to information of all types is in jeopardy,” Banks wrote to Bowser, “you have the opportunity to be at the forefront of care for the history of not just the District, but our Nation.”
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
The Hill Rag, along with the Ward 6 Dems and Ward 7 Democrats, hosted a “Fireside Chat” on June 2 at The Strand restaurant (5131 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave. NE) to discuss the future of the RFK Stadium site. Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen (D) and Ward 7 Councilmember Wendell Felder (D) joined the conversation, moderated by Hill Rag Managing Editor Andrew Lightman.
The chat gave residents an opportunity to hear directly from the councilmembers as plans for a new NFL stadium move through DC Council. They discussed transportation, parking, environmental concerns, and whether the deal is right for the District.
Councilmembers Allen and Felder disagree on the project. Allen has opposed a stadium at RFK for nearly a decade, arguing it would only host 20–25 events a year and that the 174-acre site would be better used for housing, business, and recreation. He said the current proposal does not meet the standard of being the “best deal” for DC.
amples of how public dollars can spur growth.
A major point of debate was the requirement for 8,000 parking spaces in three garages, two funded by the District. Allen said this number should be much lower, advocating instead for transit-centered design. He also raised concerns about costs: revenue from garages would go to the Commanders, and tax breaks include exemptions on property tax and seat license fees.
Felder, in contrast, strongly supports the stadium, calling it an economic engine for Ward 7. He emphasized that the plan includes mixed-use development and could activate the site up to 200 days a year, noting he’s gathered more ideas from the community to increase that number.
Felder disputed Allen’s claim that a stadium is a bad public investment, pointing to successful developments in Ward 6 like Audi Field, Nationals Stadium, and The Wharf. These projects, he said, drove the ward’s population boom and are ex-
Both agreed on the need for improved transportation, including an infill Metro station on the Oklahoma Avenue side and better access along H Street and Benning Road. Allen suggested forming a committee to oversee construction and transit issues. They also agreed river access for residents must be preserved.
Felder said he had held community listening sessions and asked ANCs for resolutions outlining desired community bene ts— like youth scholarships and small business support—which will be shared widely.
DMPED’s Nina Albert also spoke, noting the city must replace up to 40,000 federal jobs and that the Commanders’ $2.7 billion o er could help drive recovery. “This is the catalyst that can unlock 180 acres,” she said.
Despite their di erences, both councilmembers remained respectful and emphasized collaboration.
Watch the full discussion on the Ward 6 Democrats YouTube channel. ◆
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
Officers have arrested a man wanted in connection with a second re in the alley behind St. Joseph’s Catholic Church (313 Second St. NE) and another nearby behind Hillsdale College (227 Massachussetts Ave. NE) early the morning of Wednesday, June 11. The re is believed to be arson.
DC Fire Emergency Medical Services (DC FEMS) identi ed the suspect as Al-Rashidi Mohammad, who they say is an unhoused individual about 50 years of age wanted in connection with more than 30 suspicious res.
Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) Chair Karen Wirt told neighbors that construction material for the Hillsdale College project was lit on re between 2 and 4 a.m. in a trash receptacle in the alley behind the church.
The next day, June 12 at about 6 a.m., DC Fire EMS responded to another re in a recycling bin behind the church.
A representative for DC FEMS, which investigated the incidents, said that the suspect was captured on church surveillance footage and a lookout was issued. Capitol Police detained the suspect the same day. DC
Fire EMS Fire Investigation Unit made the arrest.
Officials say the suspect is the same man who was arrested in May after re ghters saw him light a trash can on re closer to Barney Circle. That man was arrested and photographed in May, but released for lack of evidence.
It was the third suspicious re on the alley near the church in the last 40 days. In May, a vehicle belonging to Reverend William H. Gurnee, the pastor at St. Joseph’s, was destroyed while parked in a garage behind the church.
A series of res have happened all over the Hill writ large since December. In that month, a Porche was set on re a few blocks from Eastern Market. Around Lincoln Park, several garbage cans have been lit on re, a construction trailer was burned and last week, a Pride ag torn down and set ablaze.
Authorities have not connected the suspect to all of these incidents, although he has been linked to the garage fire that destroyed Rev. Gurnee’s vehicle.
Officials say he is thought to be a serial arsonist who has set up to 50 small, primarily outdoor, res throughout the Hill over the past few months. ◆
byLiz O’Gorek
Aretary) and Steven Kolb (6A07) were in attendance. Mike Velas-
Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC 6A) met via Zoom on June 12. Commissioners Paul Spires (6A01, Vice-Chair), Amber Gove (6A04, Vice Chair/Parliamentarian), Dave Wethington (6A05, Chair), Je Giertz (6A06, Secretary) and Steven Kolb (6A07) were in attendance. Mike Velasquez (6A02) and Roberta Shapiro (6A03, treasurer) were absent.
NC 6A voted on consent to support an application from Della Barba Pizza (1382 E. Capitol St. NE) to the Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) for zoning variance and special exception requirements to enable them to build a 75-person capacity seasonal outdoor patio on the surrounding concrete plaza, which is public space. The 2,332 square foot patio would be framed by movable and ornamental planters, with umbrellas placed selectively throughout. Plans show about 37 tables and 74 chairs. Standing occupancy is 165. Chair Wethington said the patio plan is well laid out.
The occupants require relief from minimum vehicle parking requirements and for residential conversion requirements. In the letter, Wethington said that the ANC supported the application as “a thoughtful and measured expansion of a well-established neighborhood business that has operated conscientiously and has demonstrated a commitment to community stewardship.” The design aligns with the property’s use as commercial space and provides a bene t to the community, the letter continued, noting that the applicant had proactively reached out to the ANC as early as May to understand and address any potential neighbor concerns related to the application.
The ANC voted to draft a letter to Mayor Bowser outlining some commissioner concerns about the proposed FY2026 budget, including cuts to environmental and energy programs. The nal draft will be voted on by the full commission at their July meeting.
It happened as District administrative o cials continued their budget tour of ANCs. At ANC 6C, Stephen Miller, Chief Technology O cer of the District
of Columbia, presented the mayor’s FY 2026 budget. He highlighted a $243 million spending reduction and 52 days of cash reserves. Key investments include $2.8 billion for schools, $4.6 million for District energy and environment plan Clean DC and $100 million for housing. Commissioners raised concerns about budget transparency, saying that it would be useful to have a chart showing which aspects of the budget had a signi cant increase or decrease relative to last year.
Many commissioner questions were outside the scope of Miller’s expertise with the budget. For instance, citing a Washington Post report on truancy in DC Schools, commissioners asked Miller where in the budget DC will support and respond to youth, tracking their attendance and providing the wraparound services that they need. Commissioner Spires asked about funding for communitybased violence interruption programs, saying those programs compliment anti-truancy work in preventing people from becoming justice involved. Miller said those questions were mostly outside of what he was most familiar with and that he would report back to commissioners with answers after the meeting.
DC Council will vote on the FY2026 budget on July 14 and July 28.
ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION 6A
DAVE WETHINGTON, CHAIR, 6A05@ANC.DC.GOV
The Commission Voted to:
• Send a letter to the District Department of Transportation (DDOT), Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) and Councilmember Charles Allen (Ward 6-D) expressing disappointment in the delay to the H Street Priority Bus Project. The letter reaffirms their support for a comprehensive transit, bike and walking project that includes bus/tram priority lanes along the H Street and Benning Road NE corridors, noting that another car crashed into an H Street NE building the week of the meeting. Frequent crashes on H Street NE prompted 25 businesses to write a letter to DDOT asking for safety improvements a few years ago.
• Appr ove Scott Kilbourn as a member of the Economic Development and Zoning (EDZ) Committee
• Negotiate a new Settlement Agreement (SA) with Montana Liquors (710 H St. NE) to address discrepancies between the SA and license.
• Send a letter to DDOT supporting their safety upgrade plans for West Virginia Avenue NE. These include a new traffic signal at the intersection with Eighth Street NE. West Virginia Avenue NE will be converted to one-way northeast bound between Eighth Street and Florida Avenue NE and a bike lane will be added. The ANC requested DDOT add additional barriers between bike and vehicular travel lanes.
• Ask DDOT to conduct a traffic study at the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Ninth Street NE. The ANC wrote that calming measures may be required due to increased traffic and safety concerns with traffic
coming from Constitution Avenue NE.
ANC 6A generally meets at 7 p.m. on the second Thursday of every month, except August. The next meeting of the full commission is set for July 10. Find the full calendar and the link to join by visiting anc6a.org u
ANC 6B REPORT
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6B held a hybrid meeting via Zoom and in-person June 10 at 700 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. On the dais: Tyler Wolanin (6B01); Gerald “Jerry” Sroufe (6B02); David Sobelsohn (6B03, Secretary); Brian Gorman (6B04); Samuel Pastore (6B05); Anna Krebs (6B06, Treasurer); Vince Mareino (6B07); Edward Ryder (6B08, Chair) and Karen Hughes (6B09, Vice Chair).
Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Captain Adam Crist said that the First District had a hard month between May 10 and June 10, dealing with multiple homicides and a 29 percent increase in violent crime. It is the first time violent crime has registered an increase when relative to the same time last year. The ANC also experienced a high number of motor vehicle thefts over the 30 days up to June 10. Many of the 18 thefts were hop-ins, running vehicles taken when exited by delivery drivers. More complex thefts of newer cars are happening using “All-Tell” devices, Crist said, which retail online for $1,500 to $2,000 and can program push-button keys. Crist says that MPD
Serving the Near Northeast, North Lincoln Park, and H Street communities
ANC 6A generally meets the second Thursday of the month, virtually on Zoom. www.anc6a.org
**The next meeting is 2nd Thursday, July 10, 7:00 p.m.**
Transportation & Public Space Committee meeting 3rd Monday, July 21, 7:00 p.m.
Virtual Meeting via Zoom
Economic Development & Zoning Committee meeting 3rd Wednesday, July 16, 7:00 p.m.
Virtual Meeting via Zoom
Community Outreach Committee meeting 4th Monday, July 28, 7:00 p.m.
Virtual meeting via Zoom
Alcohol Beverage and Cannabis Licensing Committee meeting 4th Tuesday, July 22, 7:00 p.m.
Virtual Meeting via Zoom
We seek community-minded 6A residents interested in joining ANC 6A committees. Visit anc6a.org or email 6A06@anc.dc.gov for more information.
Instructions for accessing the meeting via Zoom have been posted under Hot Topics at anc6a.org. Call in information will be posted under Community Calendar at anc6a.org 24 hours prior to the meeting. You will be able to enter the meeting no earlier than 15 minutes prior to its scheduled start time.
Virtual Login: https://dc-gov.zoom.us/j/ 82241895770?pwd=30xgxP1oqOWhDHUuX w1vbrC1rYieSe.1 and enter password: anc7d Representing the Capitol Hill/Hill East, Eastland Gardens, Kenilworth, Kingman Park, Mayfair, Parkside, River Terrace and Rosedale neighborhoods and the RFK Stadium Complex.
Brian Alcorn, Chairperson 7D08 – Capitol Hill 7d08@anc.dc.gov Vacant 7D04 – River Terrace 7d04@anc.dc.gov
Brett Astmann, Treasurer 7D07 – Rosedale 7d07@anc.dc.gov
Dev Myers, Secretary 7D10 – Hill East 7d10@anc.dc.gov
Artilie Wright 7D03 – Parkside 7d03@anc.dc.gov
Ebony Payne 7D05 – Kingman Park 7d05@anc.dc.gov
Marc Friend 7D06 – Rosedale 7d06@anc.dc.gov
Ashley Schapitl 7D09 – Hill East 7d09@anc.dc.gov
Josh Taborn 7D01 7d01@anc.dc.gov
Vacant 7D02 7d02@anc.dc.gov
believes these are being used to make keys to steal newer cars. The best and simplest defense, he said, is steering locks such as The Club, which can be overcome but are often considered too much bother by criminals. He cautions those with push-tostart keys to keep it in a bag or pocket while in the vehicle, because often officers find them in recovered stolen vehicles.
Crist says the rise in jump-ins may be happening because thieves are aware of higher rates of prosecution in carjacking cases and want to avoid charges associated with a violent offense. Hop-ins are more likely to be charged as unauthorized use of a vehicle (UUV)—unless police have significant evidence indicating they are the thief.
Air Tags help officers, Crist said, because they can track the vehicle and recover it when it is eventually parked.
Asked about motivation, Crist said that resale is rare. Rather, he said, he is seeing a mix of joy riding and need for transport when metro is not running. However, he believes the biggest motivation is to take a car not connected to a perpetrator and use it while committing violent crimes. The US Attorney will prosecute providing the evidence is available, Crist said, noting that anecdotally he feels that prosecutions are increasing compared to five or six years ago.
Crist said there has been a steep decline in carjackings, especially armed carjackings. But there has been an increase in armed and general scooter jackings, especially of Hispanic delivery drivers. When that is reported, delays in getting an interpreter sometimes inhibit investigation; other times, distrust of law enforcement in the immigrant community means officers will not even hear about it.
The ANC voted 5-0-1 to support a resolution urging the US Army to cancel or relocate their June 14 parade, largely citing the potential damage to District streets. It also urged the federal government to fully repair damage or reimburse the costs to the District for doing so. They also asked that the US military commit to evacuating the streets by 6 a.m. June 16. The resolution was also sent to DC Council. Commissioners Mareino, Gorman and Wolanin recused themselves from the vote because they are federal employees.
Far less controversially, the ANC also voted unanimously (with one recusal) to support a resolution urging DC Council to reject a proposal from Mayor Bowser to repeal the Sanctuary Cities Act as part of the FY2026 Budget Act. The resolution also asks council to affirm that local officials will do everything in their power to protect communities and defend them against the violation of human and constitutional rights.
The ANC voted unanimously to send a letter of support for an application for a DC Arts and Humanities Public Art and Communities Grant from the Congressional Cemetery.
Interim Executive Director A.J. Orlikoff came forward to describe the project and request the ANC support. Prior to his current position, Orlikoff was the cemetery’s Director of Programming and said serving the community is part of their mission statement. They are working to increase their public art, he said, building on the 2024 installation of “Landscape Listens” by Tommy Bobo. The grant would support a new temporary installation by Nekisha Durrett at Congressional Cemetery.
The ANC voted to:
• Ask DC Garden Hill (1322 G St. SE) to request a 30-day deferral of their application to the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) for a medical cannabis license. If the applicant does not agree, the ANC will protest the application.
• Support funds to pay for outside counsel in the ongoing protest of the application from Acqua al 2 to ABCA for a restaurant alcohol license. The amount is based on counsel’s estimate which was not disclosed at the meeting. The next hearing is scheduled for June 24.
• To support an Historic Preservation (HPA) application for a new front areaway and window in an enclosed porch to permit a wheelchair entry at 328 Fourth St. SE.
ANC 6B generally meets the second Tuesday of each month except August. The next regular meeting of the full ANC will be a hybrid online and in-person meeting held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 8. See calendar and get information on how to join at anc6b.org. u
ANC 6C REPORT
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6C met June 11, 2025 via Webex. The following were on the dais: Jeremiah Foxwell (6C01), Karen Wirt (6C02, chair); Jay Adelstein (6C03, treasurer); Mark Eckenwiler (6C04, vice-chair); Daniela McInerney (6C05); Andrew Hayes (6C06, secretary) and Tony Goodman (6C07).
Rachel Clad, Civic Design Researcher with the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) described a project to improve safety conditions on the Metropolitan Branch Trail (MBT). She said about 2500 people use the MBT daily, a volume expected to increase along with the types of vehicles used on the trail, specifically micro-mobility vehicles like e-bikes and electric scooters. The combination of electric vehicles and mechanical bikes is increasing the risk of injury, Clad said, so DDOT is working to address that risk by making design changes that will decrease speeds at high density points on the MBT.
The team will engage with users on the trail to learn from their experiences and work towards a solution. At the same time, DDOT is doing research, working with other jurisdictions to see how they have addressed concerns, including speed feedback signs. Clad said in the coming weeks, she will have more clarity on the project and its work, but wanted to inform the commission of the research and outreach that was about to begin. There was no vote on the matter.
A motion in support of an application to HPRB for a concept design to construct a third floor addition to an existing one story row dwelling, with a 15-foot setback from the current two-story rear addition at 605 Constitution Ave. NE failed with a vote of 3-4. The commission instead decided to report the failed vote to HPRB. The hearing is
set for June 26.
The existing second-story addition was constructed on the building about thirty years ago. It has a 20 foot setback from the front facade, said architect Jennifer Fowler. The applicant originally proposed building the third story addition set back an additional 15 feet from the second oor, in sort of a step formation from the front facade. However, Historic Preservation O ce (HPO) sta indicated they preferred the two additions have their facades aligned, necessitating changes to the plans.
Eckenwiler said that aligning the facades on the two additions would make the third oor more visible than in the initially proposed design. In general, HPRB works to make these less visible from public space, he noted. Neighbors voiced objections, both to the HPO suggestion saying it would increase the visibility of the addition. Others objected to any additions at all, saying that it tripled the size of the original building and was not in conformity with the neighborhood. Commissioners voted 3-4 to support the original application with some aesthetic changes in consideration of the neighborhood.
The ANC voted unanimously 6-0 to protest the renewal of liquor license for the rooftop restaurant at the Mariott Hotel (175 L St. NE). The rooftop restaurant has been operating for a number of years with ampli ed music that had elicited no concerns from the community. However, after a recent management transition, the roof now plays host to a dance party with ampli ed music from 4 to 10 p.m. Sundays. Goodman said he is receiving com-
ROOFING & GUTTERS
FLAT ROOF SPECIALISTS
NEW ROOFS
EXPERTS IN PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
ROOF COATINGS AND REPAIR
ALL TYPES OF ROOFING GUTTERS/DOWNSPOUTS
CHIMNEY REPAIRS
BRICK AND MASONRY WATERPROOFING
BRICK TUCKPOINTING
BLOWN-IN INSULATION
plaints from neighbors six blocks away. Because of the layout of neighboring buildings, sound projects to the east—the direction of ANC 6C—and the hotel has heard complaints themselves, which employees say they have passed on the the hotel general manager. The license renewal comes under consideration this month. The ANC will protest the renewal pending negotiations with hotel and the vendor putting on the Sunday events.
Chair Wirt announced that police were looking for an arsonist linked to two fires near St. Jospeh’s Catholic Church (See full story, including news of a suspect arrest, in this issue of the Hill Rag.
Commissioner Goodman said that the building at 301 Florida Avenue NE has nearly completed exterior construction and crews are beginning work on windows. That building will include ground floor retail and 100 units to be rented, all affordable units.
Lost Sock Coffee Roasters has opened at the corner of Fourth and I Streets NE. The roaster and café is open 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday and will be appearing before ANC 6C later this year with both a liquor license and public space application as they look to expand operations.
Ethiopian-Swedish Chef Marcus Samuelsson has opened his first DC restaurant, called Marcus DC on top of the Morrow Hotel (222 M St. NE) where Samuelsson had previously opened a rooftop bar. The ANC is protesting the liquor licenses associated with the hotel restaurant in pursuit of a Settlement Agreement (SA), although Goodman said that the restaurant is operating well at this time.
ANC 6C generally meets via Webex on the second Wednesday of every month with the exception of August. The next meeting is scheduled for July 9. See the full calendar of meetings and instructions to join at anc6c.org. u
by Andrew Lightman
Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6D met on June 16 via Zoom. Commissioners Gottlieb Simon (6D02, chair), Gail Fast (6D03), Andrea Pawley (6D04), Bruce Levine (6D06), Fredrica (Rikki) Kramer (6D07, treasurer) and Rhonda Hamilton (6D08, secretary) were in attendance. Marquell Washington (6DO1) and Chearie Phelps-El (6D05) were absent.
Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen (D) briefed the commission on the budget and answered questions. Due to language in the last Congressional Continuing Resolution constraining spending by the District of Columbia to 2024 levels, the city has frozen hiring with the exception of public education and safety and curtailed contracts and services, Allen said. It has frozen nearly a billion local dollars. “It has had a really big impact,” he said.
The council is now holding hearings on the FY 2026 budget, Allen said. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) proposed cutting the DC Dept. of Energy and the Environment (DOEE) by 30 to 40 percent. “It is a massive retreat from a lot of our environmental and clean energy commitments.”
Another major issue on the council’s agenda is the RFK development proposal to relocate the Washington Commanders. Allen expressed frustration with the expedited schedule. Council has had the proposal for only three weeks but is being pressured to act within a month. Nationals Stadium legislation was before the Council for 11 months, he said.
“We will not be able to do our due diligence. We’re not going to be able to make a better deal for DC,” Allen said. He called the Mayor’s deal “a huge giveaway to the Commanders,” involving a billion in tax dollars.
The deal gives the team the stadium and surrounding land for residential and commercial development—rent free and property tax free—with sales taxes benefiting the team, he said.
DC will build 8,000 parking spots, 13 times the
size of the Nationals structure. “The parking is expensive and excessive,” he said.
“If you are deciding to spend a billion dollars on a ballpark, you’ve got to find the capital dollars other places,” Allen stated. $400 million was removed from replacing the DC Jail, defunding the project entirely.
Commissioners asked Allen to comment on the delay of Amidon Bowen’s modernization, funding for Southwest Town Center Park, public transit, the Better Bus Plan, the new C55 route and DDOT’s M Street SW plan.
The school community was comfortable with a small delay, since the school was moved off the capital plan, Allen said. The mayor and chancellor left a small amount for planning and design work.
“That to me was a slide back from anything anyone expected,” Allen said. He thought a short delay for swing space planning would have been appropriate. “The school community asked for a small delay, but not to be removed from the capital plan,” he added.
Leaders from across the DMV worked together to provide WMATA with sufficient operating funds. Allen, co-chair of DMV Moves, a coalition of elected officials from the whole region, is helping map out a long-term financial strategy for WMATA. Reliability and safety have improved, he said, though communication with residents still needs work. DDOT has a contract for new bus shelters and kiosks, and Allen promised more details.
Allen is concerned about the C55 route replacing the 74, which serves Buzzard Point. A 30-minute interval is not real service, he agreed with Treasurer Kramer. He’s pushing WMATA for 10–15 minutes, or at least 20. He also agreed with Secretary Hamilton on the need for late night service.
DDOT has yet to present a full plan for M Street SW. They need to show safety improvements beyond the Sixth and M SE intersection, site of a recent pedestrian fatality.
Phase One of Town Square Parks is funded, Allen said. Phase Two isn’t—about $3 million short. He is working to include it in the budget, and promised not to divert funds from other Southwest projects.
Assistant City Administrator Dr. Christopher Rodriguez briefed the commission on the budget. Information can be found at www.budget.dc.gov. To deal with the congressionally mandated funding reduc-
tion, the mayor instituted a hiring freeze, made $175 million in nonpersonnel reductions, shifted $202 million of costs into FY 26 related to workforce investment and Housing Production Trust Funds. $160 million of local monies were moved into special purpose revenue funds. In addition, the mayor repurposed $117 million of special purpose and dedicated tax revenues.
“Through all of this, despite the fact that we had over a billion dollars frozen by Congress, we never laid o a single person. We never closed a single school. We never closed a rec center. All city services for our residents continued,” Rodriguez said. “We very quickly reacted to a very devastating decision by Congress.”
Federal government job losses, expected to total 40,000 jobs, have impacted DC revenues, Rodriguez said. The city’s revenue forecast over the next four years has been revised downward by over one billion dollars.
In her FY 2027 budget, the mayor has made $243 million in programmatic reducations. Another $100 million in lease, energy and nancing savings are planned. $1.1 billion dollars of additional programmatic reductions are planned for FY 27, FY 28 and FY 29. Policy changes to several programs garnered another $500 million, Rodriguez said.
The mayor’s budget contains no new taxes and does not dip into the city’s reserves, Rodriguez said.
Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Committee Chair Michael King briefed the commission on ABC matters. On the committee’s recommendation, the commission took no action on the applications for Fogo De Chao, Limani, Lupo Marino and O cina. All these applicants have
Next meeting Wednesday, July 9, 2025.
Transportation and Public
settlement agreements.
On the advice of the committee, the commission protested liquor applications for The Salamander Hotel and Potomac Paddle on the order of peace, order and quiet in the absence of settlement agreements.
The committee requested the commission to withdraw its protest of the Hen Quarter license. The establishment has resolved a number of noise issues with the aid of Treasurer Kramer.
DDOT has planned a Safety Treatment for the intersection at Sixth and M Street Streets in response to the recent pedestrian fatality at that location.
The commission asked DDOT to make the following changes to its plan to increase pedestrian safety:
• increase pedestrian signalization to allow more time for pedestrians to cross M Street SW;
• install speed bumps in front of Arena Stage on Sixth Street SW;
• install a bump-out on the east corner of Sixth Street SW;
• replace rubber flex posts with a concrete extension on the M Street SW median, which would ensure drivers headed south on Sixth make wider turns.
The commission objected to DDOT’s plans to:
• reduce M Street SW to two vehicular lanes to slow traffic and if that change is made, reserve any additional parking spaces for Zone Six Only Parking;
• any shifting of bike lanes adds confusion without increasing safety;
• any reduction in parking and the addition of a bicycle box.
The commission voted to send their recommendations and concerns to the mayor, the councilmember and the agency.
Metropolitan Police Dept. (MPD) Captain Adam Crist briefed the commission on overall crime. The main two causes for concern are an increase in theft from autos and car theft, mostly hop-ins, he said. The incidents have been scattered around the neighborhood rather than concentrated.
The commission voted to create a Taskforce on Pedestrian Safety.
Monica Jahan Bose asked the commission’s support for a public art project on a wall at The Elliot at 1001 Fourth St. SW. The commission endorsed the project.
The commission voted to write to the DC Council in support of fully funding the creation of The Southwest Town Center Park by allocating an additional $4 million in the FY 26 capital budget.
ANC 6D meets at 7 p.m. on the second Monday of every month. The next meeting is July 21 via Zoom. For more information visit www.anc6d.org. u
ANC 7D REPORT
by Sarah Payne
Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 7D met on June 10 via Zoom. Commissioners Katie Murphy (7D04), Ebony Payne (7D05), Marc Friend (7D06, vice chair), Brett Astmann (7D07, treasurer), Brian Alcorn (7D08, chair), Ashley Schapitl (7D09) and Dev Myers (7D10, secretary) were in attendance. Commissioners Joshua Taborn (7D01) and Artilie Wright (7D03) were absent. Single Member District (SMD) 7D02 remains vacant.
Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development Nina Albert briefed commissioners on redevelopment plans for the RFK campus. In particular, Albert addressed the impact of proposed modifications to the surrounding network and the addition of 8,000 stadium parking spaces on surrounding neighborhoods.
This project, Albert said, is deserving of “major community input.” “The (District’s) investment in the stadium is really an investment in our future,” she said. “We can work through a lot of the concerns to make sure they are mitigated or improved upon.”
The commission “feels like it is going to be pushed through by the Mayor anyway” and that they hope to secure some community benefits as a result of the project, stated Commissioner Murphy.
Echoing Murphy’s sentiments, Commissioner
Friend encouraged neighbors to “be as prepared as possible” regardless of their support or opposition to the project. He emphasized the importance of a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) that would provide neighborhood improvements to surrounding communities alongside the development.
In addition to logistical concerns, Murphy questioned how the District government could “reassure” residents that the project is a “good deal” for Ward 7 long term. She emphasized the many elements of the redevelopment process, and resulting stadium complex, and how they would impact residents. “Right now, the Mayor is asking us not to worry about those details and trust that things will come together,” she said.
Commissioner Payne expressed further concern about the amount of revenue the city will bring in from these investments. “My understanding is that the team will be paying $1 in rent per year. They will pay no property taxes, and the revenue from the parking and all of the stadium events and all of the surrounding retail licenses will also be going to the team,” she said.
Ward 7 Councilmember Wendell Felder (D) outlined his efforts to establish an 11-member Community Advisory Commission (CAC) of residents., composed of individuals who live in Ward 7, to highlight the needs of the “most vulnerable residents” and ensure that community voices are heard throughout the CBA process. While several listening sessions and town hall meetings have taken place, concerns remain.
The “overall quantity of parking” proposed for the stadium and its negative impact on “valuable waterfront land” in the neighborhood also drew concern from several residents. Parking decks could “totally change the character of the community,” one stated. The 8,000 proposed spaces are a result of the city’s efforts to “significantly reduce” the original proposal, Albert responded.
The Commanders “need to know that they should continue to make investments in this project and move it forward and bring consultants to the table who can work on design,” Albert said in response. “If they don’t know that the provisions of the term sheet are agreed to in addition to the money, then we don’t have a deal.”
While the commission is “not committed to any particular course of action” on project feedback now, according to Commissioner Alcorn, the park-
ing and transportation issues around the stadium represent a “core community concern.”
To highlight this, the commission voted to send a resolution to the DC council requesting that DC government agencies create new parking facilities on the RFK campus in a manner that does not impede access to recreational areas, disproportionately contribute to an increase in traffic or interfere with potential metro transit facilities.
Visit ourrfk.dc.gov for more information about the project.
Katie Murphy will serve as the commissioner for 7D04 representing River Terrace. She attended the meeting following her swearing in ceremony with Councilmember Felder.
Deputy Mayor for Planning & Economic Development, Nina Albert, briefed commissioners on the DC Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Plan focused on strategic reductions, strengthening the local economy and supporting vital city services for residents.
The commission voted to support a Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) variance application to convert an existing four-unit apartment building into a six unit building at 1631 A St. SE.
ANC 7D will meet next on July 8 at 7 p.m. via Zoom. You can learn more about the commission and register to attend at 7d0761.wixsite.com/anc7d-1. u
ANC 8F REPORT
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 8F met both in-person at 250 M St. SE and online via Zoom June 17. On the dais were Commissioners Nic Wilson (8F01), Vice Chair Markita Bryant (8F02), Chair Brian Strege (8F03), Secretary Edward Daniels (8F04) and Treasurer Liam Goodwin (8F05).
ANC 8F voted to send a letter urging DC Council to pass the Juvenile Curfew Emergency Amendment Act of 2025. Chair Strege pointed to recent instances in the District where large groups of juveniles gath-
ered in neighborhoods including The Wharf, Navy Yard and U Street. Fights, robberies, and assaults have taken place.
Deputy Mayor of Public Safety and Justice Lindsay Appiah was present to discuss the budget and was asked about the law. She said it does four things. First, it sets a summer curfew of 11 p.m. for kids under 18. Currently, it’s midnight for those under seventeen. Second, it allows the MPD Chief to set a 7 p.m. curfew in a limited area and time with posted notice, similar to last year’s drug zones. Third, the law lets an ANC, main street or civic group apply for a curfew zone. Finally, it allows the mayor to declare a citywide curfew for minors during an emergency, in 30-day increments.
Appiah said children violating the curfew could be brought to the Youth Services Center (YSC) until a parent picks them up. If not, Child and Family Services will bring them home.
Commissioners voted unanimously to support the bill, with Bryant noting it was something she had pushed for. Daniels said he hoped the law would pass before July 4, when teenagers might be out with fireworks.
DC Council Chair Phil Mendelson (D) was present to discuss council business. He expressed skepticism about the law’s effectiveness, saying research is inconclusive. “I suspect the council will probably adopt it, and I expect there also will be a lot of rhetoric about how this makes all the difference and I’m not sure that will be true.” He said the council is likely to take it up July 1.
Mendelson focused on the DC budget, noting the Mayor’s support act spans 280 pages and includes subtitles unrelated to budget matters that will likely be removed due to the compressed schedule. The budget, delayed by congressional interference, was received May 27. Council will vote twice, on July 14 and July 28.
He emphasized the need to prioritize in the tight budget. Some programs may be deferred; others, like the Office of Administrative Hearings, could generate income. One area being cut is the environment. “There’s not an environmental program I can think of that was not either eliminated or severely cut,” Mendelson said. Local funding to the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) is down 25%; combined with federal cuts, it’s about 40%.
“I do not know if we’re going to restore the Anacostia River fund that the Mayor swept,” he said. Often, the council creates a revenue stream, such as the bag fee, for specific purposes. Over time, the Mayor reallocates these into the general fund, he said. That seems to have happened again.
The RFK deal will likely be removed from the budget vote. The July 15 deadline is “incredibly difficult” to meet. Council hasn’t had time to review it, and all they’ve seen is a term sheet. Mendelson estimated the deal includes $1 billion in subsidy and another $1 billion in benefits. Risks include the lack of a deadline or enforcement mechanism for promised affordable housing.
Asked about Ward 8, Mendelson said he’s holding more meetings in the ward and has hired Monique Diop, former Director of Constituent Services to Trayon White, Sr. Asked how Council would respond if White wins the July 15 special election, Mendelson said he avoids speculation but noted the election dynamics will matter. “If White is elected with 100 percent of the vote,” he said, “my answer might be different than if he wins with 25 percent.” He said this is the answer he has consistently given, despite White’s claim that Mendelson had promised not to seek expulsion if re-elected.
Commissioners voted to send a letter of support to the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) for a stipulated liquor license for Cantina Cruises.
The cruise is a partnership between C Suite Cruises and District Taco, offering chips, salsa and mini churros. As they grow, more culinary options will be added. The operators also run the Patella Paddle Club out of Georgetown, The Wharf and Navy Yard. Commissioners said they had heard only positive things and expected a cooperative agreement within three days.
The historic building at 200 Tingey St. SE on Tingey Plaza has been leased to event design studio Social Supply for weddings, galas and other events. Daniels said the leaseholders are expected to appear before ANC in the coming months.
ANC 8F meets the third Tuesday of each month. The next meeting is July 15. Learn more at anc8F.org. u
On Thursdays, through July 24, from 5 to 7 p.m., experience the Washington National Cathedral like never before with a new afterhours event. Begin with a Tower Climb through winding staircases and hidden passageways to see details and panoramic vistas. After the climb, relax with light refreshments in the Cathedral’s Tower Observation Gallery and take in views of golden hour over the DC area. Climbs run every 15 minutes. $60. www.cathedral.org
Cathedral Heights, a residential neighborhood in Washington, DC, viewed from the Pilgrim Observation Gallery at Washington National Cathedral.
Every Saturday and Sunday through Sept. 7, at 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., join a Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens ranger for a one-hour guided tour of the park. The tour will cover the history of the park, the waterlilies and lotuses in the ponds and the importance of the marshes connected to the ponds. The tour begins in front of the visitor center. Bring a water bottle and wear appropriate clothing for the weather. Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens is at 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE. www.nps.gov/keaq
The Capitol Hill Art League invites artists and crafters to register for the Capitol Hill Art Walk on Sept. 13 and 14. Artists will show their work in Capitol Hill home studios, on porches or in yards. The event is free for both artists and visitors. The registration deadline is Aug. 11. For details and an evolving list of participants, visit www.HillRag.com/Art-Walk-2025.
An ALDI grocery store has opened at 801 H St. NE. Aldi, stylized as ALDI, is the common company brand of two discount supermarket chains operating over 12,000 stores in 18 countries. In 1979, Aldi acquired Trader Joe’s. Store hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., daily. www. stores.aldi.us
DC Open Doors
DC Open Doors
DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership int city. is programo ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust
DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership i city. is programo ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust
DC Open Doors
homebuyer or a D.C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia
homebuyer or a D.C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia
DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership i city. is programo ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust homebuyer or a D.C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia
HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) rst-time home buyer program.
DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership in the city. This program offers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on first trust mortgages.You are not required to be a first-time homebuyer or a D.C. resident to qualify for DCOD. You must, however, be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia.
HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) rst-time home buyer program.
HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) rst-time home buyer program.
years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to
years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to
DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees.
DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is o ered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.
years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to
DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is o ered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.
COVID-19
DC4ME is offered to current fulltime District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower’s employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.
DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is o ered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.
DC MAP COVID-19 provides nancial assistance to those a ected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quali ed borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage for up to six months.
COVID-19
DC MAP COVID-19 provides nancial assistance to those a ected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quali ed borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage for up to six months.
www.DCHFA.org
DC MAP COVID-19 provides nancial assistance to those a ected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quali ed borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage for up to six months.
how to apply to any of DCHFA’s homeownership programs.
Through Aug. 31, the US Botanic Garden has shifted open hours for the Conservatory to 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. These hours will allow the USBG to replace the greenhouse glass roof in the Conservatory Garden Court. Additionally, on Thursday evenings ‒ July 17, Aug. 21 and Sept. 18 ‒ the garden will extend its hours, staying open until 8 p.m. with live music and food and drinks vendors. The USBG will return to standard Conservatory hours of 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. beginning Sept. 1. www.usbg.gov
In late 2026, Union Market Ace Hardware will open at 1234 Third St. NE within the Central Armature Works development. Occupying two levels and totaling over 9,150 square feet, this location is near the NoMa-Gallaudet Metro. www.acehardwaredc.com
On June 18, Mayor Bowser cut the ribbon on Phase 1 of The Stacks, 101 V St. SW, a nearly seven-acre development that marks a milestone in the transformation of Buzzard Point. The Stacks will deliver more than 1,100 new homes across three distinctive residential buildings with a variety of unit
The US Botanic Garden invites visitors to enjoy flowers, live music and refreshments on the third Thursdays of July, August and September. On July 17, Aug. 21 and Sept. 18, the garden will stay open until 8 p.m. for visitors to enjoy the golden hour amid the USBG plant collection. Musical groups will perform in the Conservatory Garden Court beginning at 5 p.m. each date. On July 17, Pine Apple, a local band, will play covers and originals with pop and bluesy melodies over bossa nova
West Porch Fridays at Union Station, 50 Massachusetts Ave. NE, is open every Friday through Sept. 26, 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. It hosts vendors selling produce, bread, preserves and syrups, greens, dried herbs, ice cream, beer and other items, and another hot food vendor, Mardi Gras Munchies. www.unionstationdc.com/events/west-porch-Fridays
types. In Phase 1 more than 10% of homes are reserved for residents earning up to 60% of the median family income, while 40,000 square feet of retail includes Buzzard Point’s first community gym, FLEX, which is now open. The neighborhood also features over 22,000 square feet of outdoor public space anchored by V Street Park, a green space with a play lawn, outdoor dining areas and shaded seating. www.thestacks.com
On June 2, Mayor Bowser and others cut the ribbon on the redesigned Mamie “Peanut” Johnson Plaza, formerly known as Dave Thomas Circle. The event also celebrated the completion of the Florida Avenue Multimodal Streetscape Project, which addressed safety issues at the intersection of Florida Avenue and New York Avenue NE, one of the District’s most dangerous intersections. Among many improvements, the transformation along Florida Avenue from Second Street to H Street NE includes new sidewalks, protected bike lanes, new traffic signals, landscaping enhancements, curb realignment for traffic calming and additional bus platforms.
Folger Consort, the early music ensemble-in-residence at the Folger Shakespeare Library, has announced its 2025-26 concert series. The season will feature a collaboration between Folger Consort and the O.B. Hardison Poetry Series, as well as holiday performances to coincide with the Folger’s second annual Frost Fair, the return of romantic music for Valentine’s Day weekend and a spring-themed program to close the season and celebrate Mother’s Day. Here is the lineup: Virtuosos of Violin and Verse, Nov. 7 to 9; Holiday Music from Spain and Portugal, Dec. 5 to 14; Love Songs of the 15th Century, Feb. 13 to 15; An English Garden, May 8 to 10. www.folger.edu
On Thursday, July 31, from 5:15 to 7:00 p.m., at Southwest Library, 900 Wes-
and funk grooves. On Aug. 21, Tornado Rose, an upbeat Americana and bluegrass band, will feature vocals and strings. And on Sept. 18, area native Chanel Kelly will blend classical technique with modern genres including R&B, soul and hip-hop on acoustic cello. In partnership with the Friends of the US Botanic Garden, Vintage Views will offer lemonade, botanical non-alcoholic mocktails and snacks for purchase during all extended evenings. Entrance is free and tickets are not required. Learn more and plan your visit at www.usbg.gov.
Wednesday, July 30, marks the 100th year of Chincoteague’s annual Pony Swim. The festivities kick off the Saturday before the swim with the southern herd roundup and concludes the Friday after the Pony Swim when the ponies swim back to Assateague. The Chincoteague Fireman’s Carnival will be open each night during pony-penning week, beginning at 7 p.m. DC to Chincoteague is about 170 miles. For a complete listing of events and activities, visit www.chincoteague.com/pony-swim/pony-swim-guide.
ley Pl. SW, learn how to use the DC Public Library’s free online resources to uncover family history. www.dclibrary.org
On Sunday, July 6, and Wednesday, July 9, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., discover summer with the National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA) during special Library Days. This event is free when you register through DCPL using the link below. The National Museum of Women in the Arts is at 1250 New York Ave. NW. www.dclibrary.org
On Tuesday, July 8 and 29, from 4 to 6 p.m., join DC’s Office of the Chief Technology Officer at Southwest Library, 900 Wesley Pl. SW, for a free Tech 101 workshop to learn basic tech skills such as creating an email or changing a password, navigating online applications and managing storage
on smart devices. Call 202-266-6328 to sign up (suggested) or learn more. www. dclibrary.org
On Thursday, July 17, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., join the Northeast Library, 330 Seventh St. NE, for a game night in the garden as part of this year’s Adult Summer Camp at Northeast Library. A Polaroid booth will commemorate your evening of outdoor games. You can also sign up for Discover Summer and complete your bingo board for prizes. An Adult Summer Camp: Karaoke Night is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 28, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. www.dclibrary.org
Visit Community Forklift’s reuse warehouse in person on Wednesdays through July 30 and save 10% storewide. The warehouse is open from noon to 7 p.m. on Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Discounts cannot be combined and do not apply to Treincarnation live edge lumber or Amazon Select Paint. Also, visit the $1 tent in the courtyard. Community Forklift is at 4671 Tanglewood Dr., Edmonston, Maryland. www.communityforklift.org.
Films at the Stone are stories of individuals who, against all odds, fought for the values of democracy, justice, hope and love. Here is the remaining lineup: July 18, “Moana 2,” and Aug. 15, “Wicked.” Movies start at 8 p.m. and are screened on the lawn adjacent to the bookstore at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, 1964 Independence Ave. SW. Guests are encouraged to arrive early and bring a blanket or low-profile lawn chair. Parking is limited and use of public transportation is encouraged. www.thememorialfoundation.org/mlk/films
IN Series Announces 2025-26 Season
IN Series is a change-maker, transforming perceptions of who makes opera and for whom it is
made, what is defined as an operatic experience, why we make opera and why opera matters. Here is the 2025-26 lineup. In 2025, “St. John the Baptist,” Oct. 2 to 12; “The Delta King’s Blues,” Dec. 6 to 21. In 2026, “The Song of Sakuntala,” June 6 to 21; “The Alcestiad” (subscriber performance), July 20. “St. John the Baptist,” “The Delta King’s Blues” and “The Song of Sakuntala” are at PopUp Theater, 340 Maple Dr. SW; “The Alcestiad” is at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G St. NW. www.inseries.org
This free webinar on Friday, July 8, noon to 1 p.m., is for DC-area employers and businesses seeking to understand the benefits and risks of artificial intelligence. It will examine general AI trends, delve into the specifics of AI and employment and explain what the rise in agentic AI means for operations. Register at www.probono.center/AI.
There is a walk-in Passport Acceptance Office on the second floor of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G St. NW. It is open Tuesday to Thursday, from 3 to 7 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Photos may be taken onsite. All applicants must be present. Free printing, copying and scanning are available. Read more about fees and forms at www.dclibrary.org/passports.
When the temperature or heat index reaches 95 degrees, District government, through DHS and the Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency, implements the Heat Emergency Plan and activates cooling centers for residents. For transportation to a shelter, call 311 or the Shelter Hotline, 202-399-7093. For more information and a list of District cooling centers, visit www. heat.dc.gov.
The Hill Rag Bulletin Board presents event notices, volunteer opportunities and other community news. Do you have a notice for the Bulletin Board? Send it to www. bulletinboard@hillrag.com. u
article and photos by Annette Nielsen
All you need to do is take a walk around Capitol Hill for inspiration for designing or revamping outdoor spaces. Whether porches, patios or stoops, urban outdoor spaces create an extension of our indoor rooms. These can be a respite from the news and work and a way to reconnect with nature and neighbors.
Randall Dodd appreciates some quiet time to read and enjoys interacting with others from his front-yard garden seat. “It’s relaxing to sit surrounded by herbs and flowers, but it’s also nice when neighbors stop by, pull up a chair and we have a conversation.”
Returning from living overseas serving in the diplomatic corps, Ambassador (ret.) Richard Hoagland decided to transform his home’s backyard into a tranquil garden as part of a house renovation. He had brick raised beds built and engaged Ginko Gardens for recommendations on plantings. He enjoys sunshine with morning coffee from a balcony that overlooks flowers, grasses and a trellised car park covered with trumpet vines, and transitions to entertain in the evening with cocktails below. “This year, beyond the perennials, I’ve focused on the coleuses and geraniums to add some bright color,” and says he’s particularly fond of the vibrant heritage daylilies in double orange transplanted from a family member’s garden.
Another form of relaxation involves a favorite pastime – a nap. For
this you could be in a comfy Adirondack chair, a hammock or a cushioned recliner. Look at options at WS Jenks, Frager’s and more to enjoy the lazy days of summer to come.
“Hello, Statue?”
Capitol Hill is notable for the statues displayed in many front yards. Favorites include the Olive Seward statue located in the front yard of the home at North Carolina and Sixth Street, and “Jack” on stilts, a statue of a young boy living in a neighbor’s front yard. Another that always catches my eye is the bust perched on a
stone bench at the corner of East Capitol and Seventh Street. In this lush garden, owner Jared Weaver took a break from pruning to chat. “We inherited the bust from a neighbor who moved away from the Hill – we named her ‘Lady Liberty.’” My wife, Anna has a design business and incorporates antique and vintage pieces, always on the lookout for unique and interesting items that sometimes end up here in our garden.”
If you find yourself peering into an open alley doorway, you might get to peek in to see a secluded secret space, not typically on view – with more plants, a rising staircase or gazebo. Water elements are beautiful additions to a garden, too – whether as a small lake as part of a miniature fairy village or as fun features at a children’s playground.
For additional water-inspired décor, take a walk over to Ginko Gardens and their outdoor space. Hidden between plants, lighting fixtures and wind chimes, you’ll see a variety of fountains – some with stone faces that smile back.
Tables and chairs serve as a gathering place for dining al fresco, both casual and formal. It’s possible, too, that you may want to use a ‘summer kitchen’ the space our an-
cestors would use to prepare and put-up food before we knew the meaning of air conditioning, a practical way to keep heat from cooking out of the main house. Select a proper grill for your cooking style. Would you want to use old-school charcoal on a portable grill, or a wood-fired oven great for pizza? Or do you prefer having a propane or gas grill at the ready with virtually no wait time to grill your veggies or steaks? Frager’s has an entire room dedicated to not only iconic Weber grills
and Big Green Eggs, but the sauces, rubs and tools for your culinary adventures.
Resources
You may want to get some expert advice on planning your space to incorporate all the elements that will make the outdoor space uniquely yours. Thomas Landscapes provides full-service landscape design and maintenance expertise for patios, roof-tops masonry, fencing and iron work. Other landscapers Specializing in Hill clientele are Melanie Neuman, ART Garden Design and Parick Design.You can nd pieces to trick out your outdoor rooms – whether grills, tables and chairs, umbrellas, decorative elements or storage at a variety of places on the Hill where you can draw on the experts at locations listed below.
Frager’s Garden Store, acehardwaredc.com/pages/ fragers-hardware
Ginko Gardens, ginkgogardens.com
Anna Weaver Interiors –(for vintage nds), annaweaverinteriors.com
W.S. Jenks & Sons, doitbest.com/w-s-jenks-and-son
Art Garden Design, Anya Zmudzka artgardendesign.com
Thomas Landscapes, thomaslandscapes.com
Melanie Neuman, melanienewmanlandscapes.com
Parick Design - Scott Taft, parick.com
DC summers are no joke. My patio container garden always looks like a barren wasteland come July. Do you have any tips to help my July container garden look not so pathetic?
Container gardening is perfect for small urban spaces, renters, or anyone who wants to bring greenery closer to home. Containers offer flexibility, accessibility, and an opportunity to grow both ornamentals and edibles. In peak summer, though, pots can dry out quickly and overheat, especially on sun-drenched hard surfaces. The key is choosing the right plants, using good materials, and adjusting care for the season.
Some plants love the heat as much as they love the spotlight. These summer all-stars don’t just survive July — they thrive in it.
Ornamentals:
• Lantana camara (Lantana): A pollinator magnet with bright clusters of flowers in oranges, yellows, pinks, and reds. It loves sun and tolerates dry spells.
• Pentas lanceolata (Pentas): Another butterfly favorite, pentas bloom nonstop and come in a range of hot pinks, purples, and whites.
• Zi nnia elegans (Zinnias): A July classic. They bloom profusely, handle heat like champs, and do well in pots.
• Coleus scutellarioides (Co-
by Dare Wenzler
leus): For a pop of foliage color, coleus offers dramatic leaf patterns and thrives in partial shade — perfect for porches with filtered light.
Edibles:
• Solanum lycopersicum (Cherry Tomatoes): Choose dwarf or patio varieties like ‘Tiny Tim’ or ‘Patio Princess.’ They love heat and ripen quickly.
• Capsicum (Peppers): Hot or sweet, peppers do well in pots and enjoy the warm weather.
• Ocimum basilicum (Basil): A n atural companion to tomatoes, basil thrives in containers and loves the sun.
• Solanum melongena (Eggplant): Compact varieties like ‘Fairy Tale’ are not only productive but ornamental, too.
1. Choose the Right Pots –Larger containers retain moisture better and insulate roots from extreme temperatures. Terra cotta looks great but dries out fast; consider plastic, resin, or glazed ceramic for better water retention. If your pots are on pavement, elevate them slightly on pot feet or bricks to promote air circulation and reduce heat absorption.
2. Use Quality Potting Mix – Avoid garden soil, which can compact and suffocate roots. Use a lightweight, well-draining potting mix designed for containers. Some mixes come with added compost or moisture-retaining crystals — ideal for summer.
5. Rotate and Refresh – If a plant looks tired or scorched, don’t be afraid to replace it with something new. July is a great time to refresh containers with late-summer
3. Water Deeply and Consistently – In hot weather, containers may need daily watering, especially small pots or those in full sun. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and discourage fungal problems. Consider using selfwatering containers or adding mulch on top of the soil to help retain moisture.
4. Feed Your Plants –Container-grown plants use up nutrients quickly. Feed them every two to three weeks with a diluted liquid fertilizer, or use a slow-release formula at planting time.
bloomers or to tuck in a few seeds for fall crops like lettuce or kale.
Even in the height of summer, container gardens can bring beauty and productivity to your doorstep. With the right plant choices and care, your July containers can be full of color, texture, and life — no matter how high the mercury rises.
Want to learn more about gardening or spend time with people who like plants?
For more information go to the Capitol Hill Garden Club website at capitolhillgardenclub.org. Gardening advice, information and commentary from the Capitol Hill Garden Club. Send your questions to capitolhillgardenclub@gmail.com. u
Changing Hands is a list of residential sales in Capitol Hill and contiguous neighborhoods from the previous month. A feature of every issue, this list, based on the MRIS, is provided courtesy of Don Denton, Associate Broker at Coldwell Banker Realty on Capitol Hill. The list includes address, sales price and number of bedrooms.
• PenFed Capitol Hill
705 North Carolina Ave., SE
• Coldwell Banker Capitol Hill
350 7th St., SE
• East City Books
646 Pennsylvania Ave., SE
• Century 21 Capitol Hill
1000 Pennsylvania Ave., SE
• Tiber Realty Group
406 H St., NE
• Yarmouth Realty 309 7th St., SE
by Matthew McClure
As this column was being written, Angelenos hoisted flags representing their ancestral countries of origin over burning cars while National Guard troops and LAPD officers attempted to smother a rising tide of civil unrest linked to immigration crackdowns across their simmering city. For the protesters, being simultaneously proud of their roots while also fiercely loyal to American values wasn’t incongruent, because being American is complicated – perhaps more now than ever before. This month’s column looks to theater that asks a question many of us are grappling with as our nation celebrates 249 years of independence from monarchical tyranny: What does being an American mean to you?
Kim’s Convenience, Olney Theatre Center
Showing June 25 – July 27 www.olneytheatre.org
What does being an American mean to you? Is it defined by how well you’ve assimilated if you happen to be from elsewhere? How skillfully you navigate the idiosyncrasies of the country you now call home?
Playwright Ins Choi’s work Kim’s Convenience, on stage at Olney Theatre Center this month and being directed by Aria Velz, asks this and many other compelling questions at a time when we’ve arguably never been more aware of the identity politics of immigration. The play debuted in 2011 at the Toronto Fringe Festival and rapidly sold out, scooping multiple awards in the process including Best Canadian Play as audiences were introduced for the first time to Mr. Kim (‘Appa’), Mrs. Kim (‘Umma’) and their first-generation Korean American children Jung and Janet. You might already be familiar with the bingeable Canadian TV series of the same name based on Choi’s characters that ran for five seasons on Netflix in 2016.
For Olney’s staging, veteran DCbased actor Stan Kang assumes the role of Mr. Kim alongside fellow cast members Tuyet Thi Pham as Umma, Zion Jang as Jung and Justine “Icy” Moral as Janet. Jonathan del Palmer plays a kaleidoscope of revolving characters written to highlight the cultural and social contrasts between the Kims, their convenience store and the customers that frequent it in Toronto’s Regent Park neighborhood in the 1980s. This will be Kang’s first theater role in more than ten years after he took time off to focus on nonprofit work and family responsibilities, including his wife’s cancer diagnosis. “As much as I love it, theater is super time consuming.” he explains. “But this show came along and I really wanted to read for it. I’m having the best time of my life.”
There are specificities in Choi’s original work that give it a distinctly Canadian flavor, like the fact that it’s set in a Canadian neighborhood that’s home to scores of Korean immigrants that first arrived in the 1960s. It’s also very obviously an homage to Choi’s own family and his experience of working in his uncle’s convenience store. But the play is intrinsically
translatable to the current national debate – being played out in both the streets and in our Executive, Legislative and Judicial branches – about how and why immigrants adapt to being American. “Growing up, I was very American.” Kang explains. “My parents are the typical immigrant story. My dad was working for the State Department. The family who he worked for paid for his college. He didn’t have money to go back home so my mom and dad didn’t see each other for almost six years. She came over and I was born a year later but my brother and sister are super Korean because they immigrated in their teens.”
The amorphous ‘Asian Shopkeeper’ trope can be slippery and treacherous to write and act, but Kim’s Convenience flips the stereotype on its head and makes Kang’s character infinitely funny, loveable and relatable to all of us. Kang vividly remembers his own father and his insistence that his children adopt US mannerisms. “My dad would not let me learn Korean because he wanted me to assimilate and have a perfect American accent. You realize that there’s a policing of the dream of American opportunity so you’re going to have to work twice as hard.” Although he embraces assuming the personality (and accent) of Mr. Kim, Kang resonates with Janet and Jung’s struggles with their parents, calling it a classic case of art imitating life. “In the play, Appa yells at Janet because she says she wants to be a photographer. I remember clearly telling my dad that I wanted to be an actor and he goes ‘Oh, it’s nice that you have a hobby.’ My mom used to tell me every night: ‘You’ll marry Korean and you have to become a doctor!’”
tive machine as it chugs through committee reviews and senate hearings?
In 1869, John Godfrey Saxe said that “Laws, like sausages, cease to inspire respect in proportion as we know how they are made.” What rich material for Capitol Hill’s favorite band of fools to butcher at the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop this month in a Commedia dell’arte production that borrows from Saxe’s profound insight into statutes and those that shape them.
What’s it been like for Kang to take on a prototypical Korean accent for the role? “It’s been empowering and weird at the same time. I’ve never had an accent. I’m 59, so as old as Appa is in the play. It feels OK to play up these things that in your teens were dangerous because you just
wanted to conform. What I love about the play is that it’s a slice of life in one day. Appa transitions from being traditional Korean to basically what I wish my father was, which was accepting of the idea that he’s made all these sacrifices so that we can choose what we want to do.”
How the Sausage Gets Made, Faction of Fools Theatre Company
Showing July 17 – August 9
www.factionoffools.org
What does being an American mean to you? Is your nationality given shape by the laws that senators and house representatives write in the hallowed chambers of Capitol Hill, or the slow and steady grind of the cogs in the democratic legisla-
Meet (very junior) Congressman Nathan Newbright. A creation of Faction of Fools’ Co-Artistic Directors Francesca Marie Chilcote, Kathryn Zoerb and their team, we get to tag along with Newbright and his colleagues and get an inside look at the meat making process while he tries to get a bill passed on the Hill without compromising too much of his integrity. Faction’s theme for 2025 has been Home Grown: For DC by DC. This production, as Zoerb says, “celebrates the hardworking nerd” and the importance of “incremental democracy.” Through Allbright’s eyes, we get to see how hard it is to make something really good – surrounded by a cast of typical Commedia characters like the braggart Il Capitano or the wealthy and meddling Pantalone – without getting your feet swept out from under you or your votes stolen.
As one particularly fractious ‘Big and Beautiful’ bill currently snakes its way through the mazes of Congress, there couldn’t be a better time to poke fun at the latent humor of American governmental structures and characters that populate them. Like with all other Faction of Fools productions, you’ll be able to enjoy How the Sausage Gets Made even if you’re not familiar with Commedia dell’Arte and its conventions. It’s a rollicking good story that hits the nail on the head in the current moment. u
Jean Nordhaus has lived in three di erent row houses on Capitol Hill since 1964. Holding a PhD in German literature, she taught at the University of Maryland and the University of the District of Columbia, coordinated the poetry programs at the Folger Shakespeare Library for several years, raised a family on the Hill, and has published eight volumes of poetry, including The Porcelain Apes of Moses Mendelssohn (Milkweed Editions) and, most recently, The Music of Being (Broadstone Books). She says, “This poem, starting from simple sounds I hear at home at night, surprised me as it evolved into an exploration of the balance we mostly manage to maintain in our lives between our public and private selves and ended in amazement at the free (if not always welcome) exchanges of the plant world.”
Sandra Beasley is the curator of “Poetic Hill,” a resident of Southwest, and the author of four poetry collections. If you live in D.C. and you’re interested in being featured, you can reach her at sandrabeasley@earthlink.net for questions and submissions (1-5 poems). ◆
by Sandra Beasley
HOUSE MUSINGS for my neighbor K
At night, when tra c stills I sometimes hear your mu ed footsteps traveling lightly up or down your stairs
like ngers on a keyboard. Strange companions, we abide side-by-side, unseeing, front doors
open to the world, backs to the garden What can we know of each other’s lives? Our windowless party walls
pressed together in blind intimacy, we meet by the stoop or our garages neighborly, yet always with a stitch
of hesitation, a smidgen of formality between. In Gaza, in Ukraine, survivors search the rubble of their houses
for the missing and I know we must be grateful for our separations the privacy and dignity of walls.
Still, it’s good to know you’re there sending ghostly music through the stairwell’s airy
soundbox, ferrying your body downstairs in the morning, upstairs at night. Another soul, secret as mine.
My holly tree drops leaves and berries into your yard. Your Japanese anemones have raised new colonies in mine
by Celeste McCall
Summertime, and the grilling is easy; Capitol Hill’s cookout season is in full swing. But first, coming up July 27: Gospel Brunch by Genesis 2, upstairs at Mr. Henry’s, 601 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. Now performing on the fourth Sunday of each month, Genesis 2 Revelation was founded in 2015 by Minister Dewayne Morgan. His idea was
to “spread the gospel” through music. At Mr. Henry’s, Genesis 2 Gospel Brunch tickets are just $10, plus a small service charge. Upstairs doors open at 12:30 p.m., the show starts at 1:30.
Since its founding in 1966, Mr. Henry’s has been a neighborhood institution with its cozy Victorian décor, spacious patio and tasty standards. Larry Quillian reportedly won the popular watering hole from Henry Ya e in a 1971 poker game. (Ya e, who died in 2006, once operated four restaurants. “Our” Mr. Henry’s was Ya e’s rst—and only surviving— enterprise.)
Quillian’s daughter Mary took over Mr. Henry’s in 2014 and still runs it today. Lots of history here: Grammy-winning Roberta Flack got her start upstairs in the 1960s, and many celebs—whose photos line the downstairs wall— have visited. Wednesdays bring jazz “jams” upstairs and other evenings o er other live music.
Oh yes, the food. We love Mr. Henry’s burgers (especially topped with bleu cheese!), o ered half price on Monday nights. The eclectic menu also includes an extensive brunch listing with breakfast wraps (and quesadillas), steak and eggs, buttermilk pancakes. Nightly specials include dogs and fries (ideal for summer), London broil, spaghetti night. In the sandwich lineup you’ll nd pulled pork barbecue with tangy sauce on a toasted bun.
For more information, hours, and gospel brunch tickets visit www. mrhenrysdc.com.
This brings us to summer barbecue and outdoor grilling. To get ready, re up that grill. But rst: check out Frager’s new grilling department at 1115 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. There, you’ll nd an array of outdoor grills (we like the old-fashioned Weber), charcoal (we prefer Kingsford Original), and a “Flavor Station” featuring shelves lined with more barbecue and hot sauces than we could consume in a decade. We purchased a bottle of Pig’s Ass sauce to join our Memphis-style dry rub, TJ’s organic Kansas City sauce and my decades-old hot sauce collection. Among our favorite BBQ eateries on the Hill are Mr. Henry’s and Market Lunch at the north end of Eastern Market. Both eateries o er better-thandecent pulled pork sandwiches with a tiny side
of coleslaw. We prefer the Market’s $9 crispy NC-style BBQ sandwich. At the other end of the Market, Canales Deli sells homemade pulled chicken BBQ at $11.99 per pound and pulled pork for a dollar more.
For special occasions, we order delicious pork ribs and chicken from the
famous “Peterbug” (his real name is John Matthews), whose outdoor grill smokes up the corner of 13th and E streets SE on weekends. For the past half century, Peterbug has operated his Shoe Repair Academy at 1320 E St. SE. By xing shoes and teaching the craft to local kids, Peterbug’s goal is to “save souls and heel people.” For more information visit www.peterbug.com.
I grew up savoring barbecue in Tennessee and North Carolina, where BBQ is pork. In Texas. BBQ is beef; in Maryland and Delaware, BBQ may be chicken, in Kentucky, it can be mutton, and in California, barbeque is a verb—it might be tofu or a veggie burger. Real barbecue is meat grilled slowly with or without a smoky, tangy sauce.
ZomTum, a Laos-Thai bistro, 660 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. Slated for a July opening, the spicy Asian restaurant will replace the popular Spanish Joselito Casa de Comida, which departed late last year. ZomTum, which translates to “papaya salad,” is the creation of Charles Kia. He operated the popular Haad Thai downtown, which closed last October after 30 years in business.
And, coming soon to Barracks Row, The Flying Mexican, 514 Eighth St. SE, previously home to several tropical restaurants. Look for updates.
Pasha Castle has arrived at 615 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. The latest offshoot of a local Turkish-style group, the bakery dispenses Mediterranean and Lebanese sweets including umpteen ice cream avors, sweet and savory kaake (Arabic biscuits), sweet and savory crepes, all kinds of baklava, and hot and cold
co ee, including Turkish. Pasha’s gleaming, spartan interior has a few tables and chairs. For more information visit www.pashacastle.com.
Good news: the neighborhood welcomes a new supermarket. Last month, Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen cut the ribbon for the grand opening of ALDI, 801 H St. NE. After parking in the cavernous garage, we checked out ALDI. We found the sprawling, no-frills store somewhat overwhelming; we’re used to cozy, welcoming Trader Joe’s. But prices are amazingly low—85 cent avocados! ALDI is open daily; for exact hours and more information visit www.stores.aldi.us.
Late last month, the H Street corridor bade farewell to Hiraya, chef Paolo Dunaga’s casual Filipino palace and its fancier upstairs tasting room Kayu, at 1248-1250 H St. NE. Both closed June 30. But hopefully, later this month, look for Double Up, at the same address, specializing in wagyu smash burgers, “loaded” fries, breakfast burritos.
As our readers probably know, Peter and I love pizza, especially our neighborhood’s numerous options. But sometimes we like to make our own. So, we were delighted to learn that Frager’s now sells pizza dough mix, along with pizza ovens, serving boards and other accoutrements. Priced at $16.99, the 23.8-ounce bag makes several crusts and/or dough balls. Customers may choose between New York, Detroit or Neapolitan styles. Top seller? New York, by far, we’re told. We’ve purchased the Big Apple version and will let you know how it comes out. ◆
by Rindy O’Brien
Celebrating our dogs and cats through art has always been popular. Images of dogs appear on ancient cave walls, and throughout art history, cats and dogs have been featured in paintings, etchings, and other mediums—some even becoming iconic works. Many will recall the contemporary photographs of William Wegman’s Weimaraner dogs, Man Ray and Fay Ray. Frida Kahlo often included her pet cats and monkeys in her self-portraits.
Closer to home, the Hill Rag’s annual pet photo contest showcases the artistic flair of Hill pet owners, who submit hundreds of photos of their beloved dogs and cats each July. Occasionally, a bird or bunny sneaks in. Most entries capture charming moments with family or familiar neighborhood scenes.
But what if you want to go further? What if you commissioned a professional painter, illustrator, or photographer to transform your four-legged friend into a lasting work of art? It’s the perfect union of two passions—art and animals—and it’s more accessible than you might think.
Washington is home to many artists who happily take on pet portrait commissions. The three local artists featured here consider working with dogs and cats a unique honor. Whether drawing from photographs or meeting the pets in person, they each bring joy and creativity to their portrayals.
Kristin has been in the DC area for the past 15 years as she has built her pen and ink business while working as an arborist. She creates hand-illustrated pen and ink prints, accessories and home décor items. She has found being a vendor at Eastern Market a great way to promote and sell her work. She accepts three commissions a month and she says, “I probably have drawn over 30 to 40 pets over the past few years.” Her favorite kind of dog to draw is a mixed breed because “they have more variety in their fur, and it is more fun to blend the different colors. Getting the eyes just right is also a very key issue,” says Kristin. She works from photographs of your dog or cat, and she has very clear directions on her website, https://dprincedesigns.com, on the kind of photos she needs to capture the pet. Her final product is a hand drawing of your cat or dog’s face, and you choose
the size of print you would like. Kristin is in the process of returning to her childhood hometown of Philadelphia to be closer to family but plans to be back at Eastern Market and other DC art festivals once a month. “I am lucky to have two cities I love,” says Kristin, “so I look forward to a hybrid existence.”
Rachel lives in the Dupont Circle area and was in the last graduating class of the Corcoran Art School before it was merged with George Washington University in 2009. She describes her business as a little bit of everything from taking family portraits, weddings, high profile events and editorial shoots. Rachel’s work has appeared in Marie Claire magazine, MTV, and many other publications.
“Families like to include their dogs in their family portrait, and I have often taken them in local parks or open spaces,” says Rachel. “Dog treats are definitely involved, but usually not too many,” laughs Rachel. Her first pet portrait wasn’t a dog, but a rabbit. “Luckily he was older and didn’t hop around too much.”
Another favorite photographic style is what Rachel calls the “heirloom” studio portrait of the
“Colored Pencil Society of America International Exhibition,” Strathmore Mansion, 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda, Maryland, June 14-August 2, 2025. Over $20,000 in prize money awarded to these specialty artists. Mansion hours are Tuesday-Friday from 12pm to 4pm and Saturday from 10am to 3pm.
“Regional Juried Group Show,” Foundry Gallery, 2118 8th Street, NW, WDC. 7July 5 -27, 2025. Opening July 5, from 4-6 p.m. Keeping with the tradition of more than 50 years supporting new and established artists, this exhibition is one not to miss. The gallery is open Friday through Sunday, 12-6 pm.
“Water in the Gas,” Kreeger Museum and Hamiltonian Artists, 2401 Foxhall Road NW, WDC, June 07 to August 23, 2015. The exhibit takes its name from a French expression that means when tension is rising in the atmosphere, or an argument is brewing and applies this to current socio-political pressures. The exhibit features Misha Ilin, Madyha Leghari, Edgar Reyes, and Isabella Whitfield. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm.
pet. “I bring the pet into my studio with all the great lighting and use beautiful antique style wallpaper as a background,” says Rachel. It is a style becoming more popular and a good one for elderly dogs. You can explore her work at www.rlincoln.com.
No stranger to the Hill Rag, Dana’s portrait of a dog in a pearl necklace graced the cover of the Hill Rag’s July edition back in 2017, and she continues the tradition with this month’s cover. “One of my big breakthrough’s as an artist was with my work on animal rights,” says Dana. “I love animals and find painting them is like a breath of fresh air, a palate cleanser for me.”
Like many artists, Dana started her art career as a sideline before she took the dive into being a full-time artist in 2001. “I won the artist lottery when I was able to buy my live/work space across from the Martin Luther King Library in 2003 as part of a DC cultural development project,” says Dana. She and fellow artist Matt share the space with each carving out their own studio space.
Dana paints from photos, but only those that touch her imagination and spirit. “I often see a photo of a dog or cat, and know I want to paint it,” she says. She takes a storytelling approach to her paintings and often captures current events. A recent painting of the Running of the Chihuahuas at the Wharf featured a chihuahua favorite of Dana’s, a rescue. “I also create special commissions of pets, and some are produced for some of my favorite charity and animal sanctuary groups,” Dana says.
To see Dana’s work, a lot more than just pets, check out www.danaelllyn.com or email her dana@danaellyn.com.
Rindy O’Brien explores local art and artists. Contract her at rindyobrien@gmail.com u
by Elizabeth Nelson, photos: Amanda Swift
Acollection of “blueprints” and 3D models, currently on view in the Young Artists Gallery at Hill Center, is unlike any previous show in that space. Shirley Chisholm Elementary School (1001 G St. SE) is currently in the concept design phase for a modernization to be completed in the summer of 2028. Amanda Swift, the art teacher, recognized this as an opportunity to explore the field of architecture with her third-fifth grade classes.
Students were invited to create a vision of their dream-school, focusing on one of five areas: the cafeteria, gym, auditorium, bathrooms, playground /school garden. The students appreciated the challenge: as Gloria said, "I think this is important because when the new school gets remodeled, we need ideas of what to do and what to add to make the school better than it is now."
After explaining the role of architects in creating new buildings, Ms. Swift introduced her students to the Design Thinking approach, defined by the Interaction Design Foundation as “a non-linear, iterative process that teams use to understand users, challenge assumptions, redefine problems and create innovative solutions to prototype and test” with five phases: Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype and Test.
Beginning with empathy, the children interviewed each other to gather ideas and concerns to blend with their own, to create a redesign of their chosen space. Beyond the specific information gathered, they also learned the importance of listening to others: "Something that I've learned is that everyone has some good ideas of what we should do. Like, for the cafeteria, some people had ideas to add more windows and I liked that." –Mackenzie
This involved acquiring new skills: "The hardest part of the project was drawing and writing things down that other people say because we might forget what they say. I think it's important to
get ideas from other people because if you don't have ideas, then you can use their ideas - not like copying but asking for help." –Royal
After scoping their piece of the project, students moved on to sketching a plan and creating their prototype. They could choose to execute their prototype as a collage, a drawing on blue paper ("blueprint") or a 3D model. They also had the choice to work in groups or alone, and modify their designs in response to feedback from their peers. The final results of their thoughtful designs have been shared with the Chisholm principal for possible consideration by the Chisholm Modernization Committee. But first they will hang in the Young Artist Gallery though the end of August, to be appreciated by the community.
Ms. Swift is “thrilled to invite you to a very special event celebrating the creativity, innovation, and thoughtful design work of some of our 3rd–5th grade students. She hopes you will visit the show “to get a sneak peak of all the wonderful possibilities that are ahead with the future redesign of Shirley Chisholm ES. Come, explore the minds of our young architects and see how they’re building a better tomorrow - one idea at a time."
Images of a selection of student work are available in the virtual gallery: hillcenterdc.org/young-minds-bold-designs/, but the exhibit must be seen in person to be fully appreciated. u
Hear the music of the Revolution at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Archeology Family Day at Mount Vernon
On Saturday, July 18, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., explore how archeology has shaped what we know about the Washingtons, the lives of the enslaved people who lived at Mount Vernon and the 18th century at Archeology Family Day. Learn with Mount Vernon educators through hands-on activities. Participate in your own miniature dig, put broken objects together, make your own replicas out of clay and pick up take-home activities. Hear the music of the Revolution at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. All activities are included with admission: adults, $28; youth six to 11, $15; kids to age five, free. www.mountvernon.org
On Saturday, July 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (online July 11), join the Air and Space Museum on the National Mall for a family day about our Sun, a dynamic star that can produce big eruptions. The Sun is now at “solar maximum,” when it becomes extra active every 11 years. Through activities, demonstrations and experts, learn how the Sun can affect the Earth, explore the science that helps us stay prepared and see the Sun’s changing features for yourself. www.airandspace.si.edu
Each month, join the National Gallery of Art in the East Building for a fun and relaxed experience featuring artmaking, films and a variety of pop-up activities. All activities are free, and most are first-come, first-served. Some require registration. Here is the Aug. 2 schedule: Kid’s Play Space, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; Drop-In Artmaking, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; Face Painting, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; Children’s Yoga, 10:30 to 11:00 a.m. and 11:15
On the first Friday of every month, 10:30 to 11:00 a.m., Shaw Library, 1630 Seventh St. NW, invites children from birth to five, accompanied by an adult, to enter into a world of fun and make-believe. Through stories, songs and movement, children will discover the joy of reading and savor the flavor of language. La bibliotheque de Shaw invite les enfants de 0 a 5 ans, accompagnes d’un adulte, a entrer dans un monde de divertissement et d’imagination. A travers les histoires, les chansons et le mouvement, les enfants pourront decouvir la joie de lire et savourer le gout de la langue. Rejoignez-nous! Join us! www.dclibrary.org
“Class Action: Education and Opportunity in the Nation’s Capital”
The DC History Center has opened “Class Action: Education and Opportunity in the Nation’s Capital.” This family-friendly, interactive exhibition showcases the ways in which DC’s residents have fought to ensure educational opportunities for Black children for over two centuries. Families will find old-fashioned chalkboards, a library nook, a costume locker and vintage furniture. The exhibition is free and open to the public. Regular visiting hours are Thursday to Sunday, noon to 6 p.m. The DC History Center is on the second floor of the Carnegie Library, 801 K St. NW. www.dchistory.org
to 11:45 a.m.; Pop-Up Library, 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; Sculpture Garden Guided Tour, 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. www.nga.gov
“The World & Me”: Caring for the Planet’s Future with Company E and Sound Impact
On Saturday, July 12, from 10:00 a.m. to noon, join the National Museum of Natural History for a special “The World & Me” to celebrate natural diversity and movement with local dancers from Company | E, musicians from Sound Impact and educators from the museum. Explore hands-on activities and discover how to take care of Earth for future generations. Performances are 10:20 to 10:50 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. to noon. Hands-on stations and activities are open from 10:50 to 11:30
a.m. This program is held in Q?rius, the Coralyn W. Whitney Science Education Center, on the ground floor of the museum. Enter through the Constitution Avenue entrance. Q?rius is located on the right as you enter the museum. www.naturalhistory.si.edu
Follow the Trail to Uncover Hidden Stories at SAAM
Take your family through the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery’s shared building at Eighth and G streets NW, and become art detectives on this new audio tour. The activities reveal hidden stories and meanings behind featured artworks. Figure out the clue to the next stop on the trail. Recommended for families with elementary-school-age children. To start the tour, pick up a map from the information desk in the G Street or F Street lobby and follow the trail www. americanart.si.edu
Through July 20, at Shakespeare’s Harmon Hall, 610 F St. NE, “Duel Reality” distills Shakespeare’s epic love story to the core of its conflict. Fusing circus, theater and dance, two feuding families face off in an acrobatic sporting arena where death-defying stunts are challenged by life-affirming passion in this retelling of “Romeo and Juliet.” Hailed by critics as a “very slick, heart-stopping, awe-inspiring performance” (Edinburgh Festivals for Kids), it will thrill the whole family. Youth tickets are available to kids 17 and under for $35 with the purchase of an adult ticket. www.shakespearetheatre.org
On select Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10:15 to 11:15 a.m. (July 8, 10, 22 and 29; Aug. 5, 7, 14, 19, 26 and 28; Sept. 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 23 and 25), discover the magic of creativity with the Anacostia Community Museum’s storybook reading program for early learners. Through stories, exhibits and hands-on art activities, children explore the legacy of Black arts education in the District, building curiosity and appreciation for artistic expression. Recommended for ages 18 months to seven years. The Anacostia Community Museum is at 1901 Fort Pl. SE. www.anacostia.si.edu
On all Tuesdays in July and through Aug. 12, from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., join the National Portrait Gallery in the Great Hall for an interactive story time
It’s tough being the youngest. Dory’s siblings won’t play with her and there are monsters to battle all over the house. With help from her fairy godfather, Mr. Nuggy, her monster-friend Mary and her mighty imagination, Dory sets out to win her family’s attention. “Dory Fantasmagory” is at Imagination Stage, 4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda, Maryland, through Aug. 3. It is best for ages four and up. Tickets start at $15. www.imaginationstage.org
that gets up close and personal with art. Participants will look closely at portraits and read stories as they learn about people who have shaped history. The NPG is at 800 G St. NW. www.npg.si.edu
Here’s the lineup: Mr. Gabe, July 11 and Aug. 1; Uncle Devin, July 18; Groovy Nate, July 25; King Bullfrog Happy Hour, Aug. 8; and Miss Niki, Aug. 15. Concerts are from 5 to 7 p.m.; $14 per child two and older; $7 per grownup. Hill Center is at 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. Tickets at www.hillcenterdc.org.
On Wednesdays through Sept. 24, from 1:00 to 1:30 p.m., enjoy tribal songs from Alaska to Florida with Dennis Zotigh (Kiowa, Isanti Dakota and Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) in the American Indian Museum’s Potomac Atrium. After the 30-minute pre-
sentation, visitors are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to the museum and Indigenous culture. www.americanindian.si.edu
Kids’ Movies on the Big Screen at Miracle Theatre
In “The LEGO Movie” (2014), July 17, 10:30. a.m. and July 18, 2:00 p.m., Emmet, an ordinary LEGO gurine who always follows the rules, is mistakenly identi ed as the Special, an extraordinary being and the key to saving the world. Unfortunately for Emmet, he is hopelessly and hilariously unprepared for such a task, but he’ll give it his all nonetheless. In “Happy Feet” (2006), July 24, 10:30 a.m., and July 25, 2:00
Story Time at MLK Library
On Monday, July 14, Aug. 11 and Sept. 8, from 11:00 to 11:30 a.m., visit Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G St. NW, in the Children’s Room, for American Sign Language (ASL) Story Time. No prior knowledge of ASL is required. The story time is recommended for kids aged two to ve with a caregiver. If you want to request an accommodation, contact the DC Public Library Center for Accessibility at least 72 hours prior to the event. The Center for Accessibility can be reached via email at dcplaccess@dc.gov or by phone at 202-727-2142.
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Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens, 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE, is a unique destination within Anacostia Park. It is hosting the 2025 Lotus & Water Lily Festival from Friday, July 18, at 8 a.m., through Sunday, July 20, at 8 p.m., featuring kids’ activities, information tables, arts and crafts, tours and cultural performances. Lawn chairs and blankets are welcome as are dogs on leash. www.nps.gov/keaq
p.m., sweet little penguin Mumble can’t sing a single note, in a world where everyone needs a heart song to attract a soul mate. Mumble feels he doesn’t belong, but he can tap dance brilliantly. Tickets are $8. Miracle Theatre is at 535 Eighth St. SE. There is a public parking lot on Eighth between I Street and Virginia Avenue. www.themiracletheatre.com
On Friday, July 18, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., take a close look at seeds to learn about different strat-
egies that plants have for seed dispersal. Sort seeds into categories based on their shapes and structures to predict their primary mode of dispersal, then engineer your own seed for dispersal via water and/ or animal. This is a free, drop-in program. No registration is needed. www.usbg.gov
“Moonshot@Home” is a digital series aimed at bringing the Moonshot Studio to people wherever they may be. Learn about the artistic process and discover tips and tricks behind great portrait photography. Moonshot@Home activities use widely available materials and engaging prompts to spark at-home, off-screen creative adventures for people of all ages. www.kennedy-center.org/ education/moonshot-at-home
The Kennedy Center’s Moonshot Studio at the REACH celebrates the artist in everyone through hands-on artmaking. The recommended age is five years and older. The self-paced projects typically take 60-90 minutes to complete. The studio staff is available to introduce the projects and to lend a hand when needed. Stop by anytime from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on (most) Saturdays and Sundays to explore the projects. For assistance or to request an accommodation, contact the Office of Accessibility in advance at 202-416-8727 or access@kennedy-center.org. www.kennedy-center.org/reach/moonshot-studio/ moonshotstudio
On Saturday, July 19, staff from the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled at the Library of Congress will present materials and activities to show the many ways in which they serve patrons and their families. On Saturday, Aug. 9, take part in a fun-filled program celebrating America’s national pastime. Create your own player persona by crafting a baseball card, explore items from the library’s baseball holdings and meet representatives from the Washington Nationals. See the Racing President mascots when they stop for a look at their personal collections at the library. Each Family Day includes a creative activity, connections to Library of Congress collections, a chance to talk to staff experts and a guide to using library resources at home. Activities are held on the mezzanine level of the Jefferson Building from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The events are free, but timed-entry passes are required to enter the Jefferson Building. Register for free tickets at www.loc.gov.
On Aug. 9, see the Racing President mascots when they stop for a look at their personal collections at the Library of Congress.
Little Critters: Nature Play is a drop-in program where young children can explore rotating themes of nature-based activities. The program occurs onsite, is designed for ages to five plus and their adults and requires no registration. View the onsite schedule at www.nationalzoo.si.edu/education/virtualprograms-calendar.
On Saturday, July 19, from 1 to 3 p.m., join Culture Queen at the Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort. Pl. SE, on an interactive journey through the swinging ‘60s as she teaches the hottest dances of the era. www.anacostia.si.edu
Visit the construction zone and see the progress on construction of a 1:40 scale LEGO replica of the Washington National Cathedral. The completed model will be more than 13 feet long, 8 feet tall, bigger than a minivan. View the model in the gift shop during sightseeing hours. www.cathedral.org
On Saturday, Aug. 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., DC Public Library’s Books from Birth and DC Public Library Foundation’s Beyond the Book program present STAR Fest 2025 at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G St. NW. STAR stands for Sing, Talk and Read, three of the key early literacy practices. STAR Fest is a free family festival that celebrates all the ways you can help your child
grow into a con dent learner. This event features live music, storytimes, free books, giveaways and fun family activities. Register at www.dclibrary. libnet.info/event/13545888.
Cinema at the REACH
Join the Kennedy Center for free lm screenings outdoors on the REACH Video Wall. Movies for families and young audiences start at dusk. Here is the remaining lineup: July 11, “The Incredibles”; July 18, “Julie and Julia”; July 25, “Moulin Rouge”; Aug. 1, “Bend It Like Beckham”; Aug. 8, “Walk the Line”; Aug. 15, “Moneyball”; Aug. 22, “Chicago”; Aug. 29, “North by Northwest.” Registration is not required but encouraged. If not registered, check the website for day of screening, cancellation or location change due to inclement weather. www.kennedy-center.org
“Sesame Street the Musical” at the KC
From July 10 to Aug. 31, experience the Muppets from “Sesame Street” up close and in-person at the Kennedy Center Terrace Theater. Don’t miss sing-alongs of the classics. “Sesame Street the Musical” is most enjoyed for ages two-plus. Tickets start at $40.25 (which includes fees). www. kennedy-center.org
Trap Theater-in-theWoods Productions
This season’s remaining Wolf Trap Theatre-in-the-Woods productions are Upside Down Fairy Town, July 5 and 6; Fyutch, July 8; Stone Soup … and Other Stories, July 9 and 10; Andrew & Polly, July 11; Sonia De Los Santos, July 12; Little Miss Ann & Suzi Shelton, July 15; The Sankofa Project, July 16; Nomad Dancers, July 17 and 18; Dan + Claudia Zanes with Tyree Austin, July 19; 123 An-
dres Birthday Fiesta, July 23; Jamming with Jules Live!, July 24; Maryland Youth Ballet in “Cinderella,” July 25 to 27; Indigenous ACE & Anoli Dancers, July 30; The Okee Dokee Brothers, Aug. 1 to 3; Professor Wow’s Space Adventures, Aug. 5 and 6; Miss Tutti and the Fruity Band, Aug. 7; and The Magic of Gary the Great, Aug. 8 and 9. All Theater-in-the-Woods performances are at 10:30 a.m. (gates at 10: a.m.) and cost $12; under two, free. www.wolftrap.org
Kids ages four to 12 can run the bases after every Sunday day game throughout the season. This year’s remaining dates are July 6 and 20; Aug. 3, 17 and 31; and Sept. 14 and 28. Kids Run the Bases begins immediately following the game, weather permitting. An adult must accompany runners to the eld. Once the game has ended, it takes the grounds crew approximately 20 minutes to prepare the eld. Kids and parents/guardians can begin lining up at the end of the seventh inning, but fans who want to stay and watch the entire game will still be able to line up once the game has ended. Participants must exit the ballpark through the right- eld gate. The line forms outside of the park on the sidewalk along First Street. www.washington.nationals.mlb.com
On Saturday, July 26, at 8:00 p.m. (gates at 6:30 p.m.), guest singers join the National Symphony Orchestra at Wolf Trap to highlight songs and clips from iconic Disney lms of the 1980s and ‘90s. Everyone, regardless of age, must have a ticket. Prices, starting at $40, are the same for adults and children. www.wolftrap.org ◆
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by Myles Mellor
1. Savory taste
6. Driveway type
13. Squealer
16. Readying an apple for pie
18. Scratched a lot
19. Wet
21. Knitted fabric
22. Braids
23. Flirt
24. Cousteau, for one
26. Salt
28. Butt
29. Squeeze (out)
31. Size up
32. Community for the avant-garde
38. Mystical remedy
41. California’s Santa ___ Valley
42. Brandy cocktail
45. Never again
46. Torment
47. Eat dinner
48. Funny
50. Military rank, abbr.
53. Persevere
54. Thesaurus abbr.
56. Lord of the Rings kingdom
58. End up as a raging success
62. Patronage
65. Exit
66. They come up with beautiful things
70. Combat flying
71. Harbingers
72. Promoters
73. Young’s partner
74. Greatest boxer
75. Bluenose
77. Approves
78. Internet provider, for short
80. Baton Rouge campus, briefly
83. Mediterranean section
89. Mountaintop homes
91. Happened sooner
92. Indian dress
96. Marquand sleuth
97. Glucose and fructose, e.g.
98. Abba’s “___ the Music Speak”
99. Sounds of woe
100. Tucked away
102. Deck supervisors
104. Naval position
114. Accord maker
115. Down Under natives
116. ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ author
117. Spheres
118. Least possible
119. Flew for the first time flying
120. Some are numbered in N.Y.C.
121. Beach adjacent to Copacabana
122. Looks after
1. To that point
2. Artist Chagall
3. “Strength , Courage and Wisdom, singer, India
4. Insulation
5. Close __ (approach)
6. Latin stars
7. Split
8. Warm-up
9. Dish of leftovers
10. Church recess
11. Lecherous look
12. N.F.L. stats
13. Actress Swank
14. Solo
15. Move in a circle
17. Ford muscle car
19. Fairy tale sister
20. Gray
25. Diploma receiver
27. Pince-___
29. Skeleton opener
30. Russian city
32. Flattish bread roll
33. “Bravo!”
34. The lady’s
35. George Strait’s “All My ___ Live in Texas”
36. Actress, West
37. Pitch
38. One-striper (abbr.)
39. Gehrig or Costello
40. Damage
43. Dolls of the 80s
44. Facilitate fiber removal
49. Showed off the car, in a way
50. Strapped for cash
51. Magnetic induction unit
52. Nobel invention, abbr.
55. Cable alternative
57. “Zoolander” star
58. Icelandic singer
59. Nets
60. Places for rent, abbr.
61. Port-au-Prince is its capital
62. Big galoot
63. Dark time for poets
64. Kind of station
65. V.I.P.’s
67. Musical “G”
68. Designer Pucci
69. More delicate
70. Website ranking technology, abbr.
74. Silly trick
75. Actress Zadora
76. Director Howard
79. Indian turnovers
81. Congeal
82. G.I. entertainers
84. Difficulty
85. War locale, informally
86. Fr. noblewoman
87. One engaged in, suffix
88. Blurbs
90. Classified abbr.
92. Bro, for one
93. Maui “good-byes”
94. Turn (to)
95. Music downloader
100. Top performers
101. Unit used in electromagnetism
103. Confidentiality agreement, abbr.
104. Witty remark
105. Annapolis sch.
106. “Q ___ queen”
107. “The ___ of the Ancient Mariner”
108. TV hosts
109. Quite often
110. Ad headline
111. Suffix in nuclear physics
112. Survived, just
113. 1990 World Series champs
115. French for friend
John Mann’s great-great-grandfather George Beckert arrived on Capitol Hill from his native Germany in 1844 looking for a new life. Beckert realized his dream, opening a brewery and beer garden at 13th and D Streets SE, where the Safeway market and aptly-named Beckert’s Park apartments now stand. Read John Mann’s oral history at CapitolHillHistory.org. Help preserve Capitol Hill history by becoming a volunteer.
510 13th Street SE
Another slice of Capitol Hill history. Great location and details throughout.
SOLD: $835,000
Listing Agent: Don Denton (202) 256-1353
308 5th Street SE
4000 SF of Victorian Grace SOLD: $1.430M
Listing Agents: Don Denton (202) 256-1353
Chuck Burger (202) 258-5316
Just
Listing Agent: Don Denton (202) 256-1353
