Rebates aren’t the Only Reason to Invest in Home Upgrades! by Catherine Plume
An Annual Checklist To Home Maintenance by Elizabeth O’Gorek
Maintenance Contracts: The Homeowner’s Key to Peace of Mind by Sarah Payne
Pros and Cons of Metal Roofs by Tom
Keeping the Hill Iron-Clad: Maintained Ironw ork Will Last for Centuries by Elizabeth O’Gorek 58 What is a Home Inspection? (and Why You Need One) by Elizabeth O’Gorek
In The Weeds by Capitol Hill Garden Club
Changing Hands by Don Denton
by Tara Hamilton
Cooking with Ruta’s Chef: Ukrainian Fare with a Side
by Annette Nielsen
District of Columbia Physical Therapy: A New Approach
by Pattie Cinelli
To HILL with the Suburbs!
Render unto Caesar... Wait! This is America... Right?
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Next Issue: April 5
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WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON
The National Cherry Blossom Festival
The National Cherry Blossom Festival commemorates the 1912 gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo to the city of Washington, DC, and celebrates the enduring friendship between the people of the United States and Japan. Today’s Festival now spans four weeks, March 20 to April 14, and welcomes more than 1.5 million people to enjoy diverse and creative programming promoting arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit. Here are some of the highlights: Parade, March 29, 10 a.m. to noon (March 30, rain date); Kite Festival, March 29, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (March 30, rain date); Petalpalooza at the Waterfront, April 5, 1 to 9 p.m.; Cherry Blossom 10 Mile, 5k and Kids Run, April 5 and 6; Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival, April 12 and 13 ($10 to $25); Peak Bloom Tidal Basin Welcome Area, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org.
Sakura Matsuri: Japanese Street Festival
Annie at the National
Holding onto hope when times are tough can take an awful lot of determination, and sometimes, an awful lot of determination comes in a surprisingly small package. Little Orphan Annie has reminded generations of theatergoers that sunshine is always right around the corner, and now this well-loved musical is set to return in a new production—just as you remember it and just when we need it most. Annie is at the National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. from April 11 to 20. Tickets start at $59. thenationaldc.com.
The Sakura Matsuri: Japanese Street Festival, on Saturday, April 12, 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, April 13, 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., is the largest celebration of Japanese culture in the United States. The festival, on Pennsylvania Avenue NW between Third and Seventh, features Japanese cultural performances on four stages (including J-Pop, traditional Japanese music, and martial arts) and a diverse range of cultural exhibitors, artisan and commercial vendors of traditional and contemporary Japanese goods, and Japanese and other food and beverages. The festival also spotlights travel and tourism opportunities and innovative Japanese technologies. Tickets are $10 to $25. sakuramatsuri.org.
In the Tower: Chakaia Booker at the NGA
Fighting for Freedom: Black Craftspeople and the Pursuit of Independence
Coffeepot, Shop of Alexander Petrie, Charleston, South Carolina, 1742-1768, Silver with wooden handle, 3996, Loan courtesy of the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA).
The Daughters of the American Revolution Museum, 1776 D St. NW, presents its new exhibition, Fighting for Freedom: Black Craftspeople and the Pursuit of Independence, in collaboration with the Black Craftspeople Digital Archive from March 29 to Dec. 31, 2025. This exhibition embraces the stories of those who pursued independence by centering on the lives and experiences of Black craftspeople and artisans from the 18th and 19th centuries. Fighting for Freedom features more than 50 objects made by both free and enslaved craftspeople. With artifacts from the 18th, 19th, and 21st centuries, this exhibition tells the stories of countless known and unnamed figures whose skills and commitment created not only objects but independence in many forms. Free admission. Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. dar.org/museum.
Eureka Day
Eureka Day is a private California elementary school with a Board of Directors that values inclusion above all else—that is until an outbreak of the mumps forces everyone in the community to reconsider the school’s liberal vaccine policy. As cases rise, the board realizes with horror that they’ve got to do what they swore they never would: make a choice that won’t please absolutely everybody. Tickets are $49 to $155. Eureka Day is at the Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater from March 7 to 22. kennedy-center.org.
For over four decades, Chakaia Booker has cut, coiled, and contorted tires, sculpting the industrial waste into spectacular abstract forms. Booker uses discarded tires both as a commentary on cultural histories and experiences and as a sustainable practice. Salvaging the tires avoids their disposal into landfills, where they trap and emit methane gas that pollutes the environment and contributes to global warming. From April 5 to Aug. 3, see three awe-inspiring sculptures by this American artist who transforms tires to explore environmental concerns in the National Gallery of Art East Building, Tower Level, Gallery 501. nga.gov.
DC Beer Festival at Nat’s Park
On Saturday, April 12 (rain or shine), the DC Beer Fest returns to Nationals Park. Soak in the spring weather while indulging in beer samples from over 80 breweries. Groove to the live music beats and savor the culinary delights offered by a variety of food trucks. General admission is $55. Session one is from noon to 3 p.m.; session two is from 5 to 8 p.m. Upgrade your experience with $90 VIP early access to batting practice in National’s cages. Also included with VIP are limitless beer tastings, exclusive entry to the warning track and dugouts, and a DC Beer Fest T-shirt. All guests must be at least 21 to attend. dcbeerfestival.com.
Orchids: Master of Deception at the US Botanic Garden
Orchids captivate and enthrall people around the world. They also captivate and lure pollinators— sometimes through fascinating, beautiful deceit. Through April 27, join the US Botanic Garden as they showcase some of the unique, bizarre, and intriguing orchid adaptations that deceive pollinators looking for food, mates, locations to lay their eggs, and more. Explore thousands of orchids in this 29th annual joint orchid exhibit between the US Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Ave. SW, and Smithsonian Gardens. The Garden is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free. usbg.gov.
Joe Carroll, Eboni Flowers, Tony Carlin, Chelsea Yakura Kurtz, and Jennifer Laura Thompsom.
Photo: Jeremy Daniel
Chakaia Booker, Acid Rain, 2001 rubber tires and wood overall: 10 x 20 x 3 (120 x 240 x 36 in.) National Museum of Women in the Arts. Photo: Lee Stalsworth
WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON
Adam Pendleton: Love, Queen at the Hirshhorn
From April 4 to Jan. 3, 2027, the Hirshhorn Museum presents Adam Pendleton: Love, Queen, a landmark exhibition of new and recent paintings as well as a single-channel video work in the Museum’s second-floor inner-ring galleries. Pendleton is known for his visually distinct and conceptually rigorous paintings that he begins on paper with drips, splatters, sprays, geometric shapes, words and phrases, and inky fragments reminiscent of broken letters. He photographs these initial compositions and then layers them using a screen-printing process, purposefully blurring the distinctions between the act of painting, the act of drawing and the act of photography. hirshhorn.si.edu.
For his first solo exhibition in Washington DC, Adam Pendleton highlights his unique contributions to contemporary American painting while making use of the architecture of the Museum and the history of the National Mall.
Professor Woland’s Black Magic Rock Show at Spooky Action
Written during the darkest days of Stalin’s reign, and banned for decades, Bulgakov’s funny, devilish, brilliant satire The Master and Margarita became a literary phenomenon with a cult following. In this new musical retelling, a band of dissident rock musicians (or perhaps the demonic retinue of Satan himself) visit 1930s Moscow to expose social climbers, bureaucrats, and profiteers. The Master–an idealistic writer working on a novel about Christ and Pontius Pilate–is silenced and detained in an asylum. Margarita, his collaborator and lover, embarks on a journey through heaven and hell to save him and his manuscript. Professor Woland’s Black Magic Rock Show is at Spooky Action Theater, 1810 16th St. NW, from March 20 to April 13. Tickets are $15 to $55. spookyaction.org.
DC Cocktail Festival at Union Market
On Saturday, March 29, sample 15 crafted cocktails from DC’s best bars and restaurants at Dock5 at Union Market. All craft cocktail tastings are included in your ticket. They believe in responsible alcohol service. To sample the cocktail tastings, you will be provided with a tasting card that you can use to redeem for each of the 15 cocktail samples. You have a choice between VIP tickets and GA tickets. General admission sessions ($39) are 1 to 3 p.m. and 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. VIP tickets get you in an extra hour earlier than GA ($55). dccocktailfestival.com.
Worship of Shri Nathji Paintingca. 1700 India, Rajasthan state, Bikaner Opaque watercolor, silver, and gold on paper H x W (overall): 18.8 × 26.7 cm (7 3/8 × 10 1/2 in) Credit: National Museum of Asian Art, Smithsonian Institution, Purchase and partial gift from the Catherine and Ralph Benkaim Collection—funds provided by the Friends of the National Museum of Asian Art, S2018.1.47
Delighting Krishna: Paintings of the Child-God
Imagine a god who appears to you as a mischievous child—you dance together in meadows, play with him, and gift him fruits and flowers. This may give you an idea of how the Hindu Pushtimarg community engages with the divine. They seek to delight and care for the child-god Krishna, and in return, they receive joy and spiritual insight. Delighting Krishna delves into the emotions and philosophy of the Pushtimarg tradition and the ingenuity of its artists. For the first time since the 1970s, these fourteen pichwais from the National Museum of Asian Art’s collections are on view from March 15 to Aug. 24. These paintings are literally larger than life, averaging about eight by eight feet in size. Awash with color and brimming with joy, these artworks themselves invite delight. asia.si.edu.
George Porter Jr. & Runnin’ Pardners at Wolf Trap
From the opening notes of “Cissy Strut,” George Porter Jr.’s basslines are unmistakable. As a founding member of seminal funk band The Meters, Porter melded syncopated polyrhythms and grooves inherited from New Orleans’ African musical roots. Now the music legend takes The Barns stage with his longtime band, the Runnin’ Pardners, performing classic Meters tunes plus songs from their highly acclaimed album Crying For Hope that are sure to make you move. $48. George Porter Jr. & Runnin’ Pardners are at the Barns at Wolf Trap, 1635 Trap Rd., Vienna, VA, on Friday, March 28, 8 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.). wolftrap.org.
Washington DC Travel & Adventure Show
On Saturday, March 29, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, March 30, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., get ready to pack your bags and make the first stop on your next vacation the Washington DC Travel & Adventure Show at the Washington Convention Center. Discover thousands of the newest vacation options from the top destinations from around the globe and meet the experts who are on-hand to help you personalize and book your trip. The top names in travel are all ready to teach you how to travel like a pro on three on-the-show-floor theaters. Advance sale tickets are $16 to $23 for adults 17 and over. Children 16 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. travelshows.com/ shows/washingtondc.
(World Premiere) #Charlottesville at Keegan
#Charlottesville at Keegan is a tour-de-force performance about the power of witnessing, constructed from interviews with residents of Charlottesville impacted by events surrounding 2017’s “Unite the Right” rally and counterprotests. Award-winning performance artist, Priyanka Shetty, was away that August and could only decipher the trauma through Twitter. She returns to interview, assessing the personal toll, while following up from recent trials of the co-conspirators. Tickets are $44 to $54. #Charlottesville is at the Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church St. NW, from March 22 to April 13. keegantheatre.com.
Fake It Until You Make It at Arena
A huge grant application from a tribal casino sends nonprofit rivals tumbling into chaos of farcical proportions in this uproarious exploration of the absurdities of ambition, the politics of identity, and the never-ending search for authenticity. Tickets start at $59. Fake It Until You Make It is at Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SW, from April 3 to May 4. arenastage.org.
Environmental Film Festival in the Nation’s Capital
Since 1993, DCEFF has been the premier showcase of environmental films. Each March, they bring the world’s largest green film festival to museums, embassies, universities, and other cultural institutions across Washington DC. In addition to the many thousands of audience members they serve with their in-person programming, DCEFF offers year-round virtual screenings to passionate and environmentally conscious viewers across the United States and the world. Search and watch at dceff.org/watchnow. The DCEFF 2025 festival dates are March 20 to 29. Look for their schedule at dceff.org/festival.
The American Southwest, directed by Ben Masters, screening Saturday, March 22, 7 p.m. at the US Navy Memorial.
George Porter, Jr.
IN Series: Poppea at St. Marks and Dupont Underground
The final part of IN Series’ Monteverdi trilogy, Poppea brings the composer’s most famous and audacious final opera of love, power, sex, and betrayal to life inspired by the performance tradition of South India, and specifically Bharatanatyam dance. This landmark production, running March 14 to 30 at Dupont Underground, St. Mark’s Capitol Hill and Baltimore Theatre Project, is of one of opera’s undisputed masterpieces. Poppea is at Dupont Underground on Friday, March 14, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, March 15, 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, March 16, 2:30 p.m. Poppea is at St. Marks on Friday, March 28, 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, March 29, 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $35 to $72. inseries.org.
Tyler the Creator at Capital One Arena
Tyler Gregory Okonma, known professionally as Tyler, the Creator, is an American rapper, singer-songwriter, and record producer. He has been cited as an influential figure in alternative hip-hop during the 2010s. Okonma became well known in the late 2000s, when he emerged on the internet as the leader and co-founder of the music collective Odd Future. Within the group, Okonma participated as a rapper, producer, director and actor, releasing studio albums that he produced for its respective members. Tickets start at $250. Tyler the Creator’s Chromakopia: The World Tour is at the Capital One Arena, 601 F St. NW, on Tuesday, April 1, 7:30 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.). capitalonearena.com.
Star Power Movies at the NPG
Join the National Portrait Gallery for Saturday movie matinees inspired by the current exhibition “Star Power: Photographs from Hollywood’s Golden Age by George Hurrell.” On Saturday, March 22, noon, the featured film is The Women. Directed by George Cukor, this 1939 melodrama features an all-woman cast starring Norma Shearer, Joan Crawford, and Rosalind Russell. On Saturday, April 19, noon, join them for It Happened One Night. This sparkling 1934 romantic comedy directed by Frank Capra, stars Clark Gable as a down-on-his-luck reporter who aids runaway heiress Claudette Colbert in hopes of getting a big story. Free but registration required. npg.si.edu.
Experience Hendrix at the Warner
Here’s the performance roster on April 5, 8 p.m., at the Warner Theatre, 513 13th St. NW, of the musicians inspired by the music and legacy of Jimi Hendrix: Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Zakk Wylde (from Black Label Society / Ozzy Osbourne), Eric Johnson, Devon Allman, Samantha Fish, Noah Hunt (from Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band), Mato Nanji (from Indigenous), Henri Brown, Ally Venable, Kevin McCormick (from Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band), Dylan Triplett, Tony Beard, Sam Bryant, and Orlando Wright. Tickets are $72 to $300. warnertheatredc.com.
20 July 1969. Astronaut Edwin E. Aldrin Jr., lunar module pilot, descends the steps of the Lunar Module (LM) ladder as he prepares to walk on the moon.
Photo: Courtesy of NASA
Tyler the Creator, 2023.
It Happened One Night, directed by Frank Capra, stars Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert.
Portrait of Jimi Hendrix oil on canvas by the Swedish artist Tommy Tallstig.
Barrack’s Row - NOW OPEN
430 8th Street, SE 20003
3rd Street 538 3rdStreet, NE 20002
Hours: 7:30a-9p
Yo La Tengo & Sun Ra Arkestra:
One Cosmic Night at the Howard
Yo La Tengo (Spanish for “I’ve got it”; also abbreviated as YLT) is an American indie rock band formed in Hoboken, New Jersey, in 1984. Since 1992, the lineup has consisted of Ira Kaplan (guitars, piano, vocals), Georgia Hubley (drums, piano, vocals), and James McNew (bass, vocals). Despite achieving limited mainstream success, Yo La Tengo has been called “the quintessential critics’ band” and maintains a strong cult following. The Sun Ra Arkestra is an American jazz group formed in the mid-1950s and led by keyboardist/composer Sun Ra until his death in 1993. The group is considered a pioneer of afrofuturism. Yo La Tengo & Sun Ra Arkestra are at the Howard Theatre, 620 T St. NW, on Saturday, March 22, 8 p.m. (doors at 7 p.m.). General admission tickets are $39.99. unionstagepresents.com/the-howard.
Uncle Vanya at Shakespeare
When the distinguished elderly owner of a rural estate returns with a new, young wife, Yelena, chaos erupts. Tensions run high, marriages reach their limits, confessions–and vodka–flow freely, and weapons are drawn. Hugh Bonneville (Downton Abbey, Paddington) plays Uncle Vanya in this heartbreaking comedy about the eternal battle between futility and change. Tickets start at $35. Uncle Vanya is at the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Harmon Hall from March 30 to April 20. shakespearetheatre.org.
The Stylistics at the Birchmere
The Stylistics are an American Philadelphia soul group that achieved their greatest chart success in the 1970s. All of their hits were ballads characterized by the falsetto of Russell Thompkins Jr. During the early 1970s, the group had twelve consecutive R&B top ten hits, including “Stop, Look, Listen”, “You Are Everything”, “Betcha by Golly, Wow”, “I’m Stone in Love with You”, “Break Up to Make Up” and “You Make Me Feel Brand New”, which earned them five gold singles and three gold albums. Tickets are $69.50. The stylistics are at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria VA, on Sunday, March 16, 7:30 p.m. birchmere.com.
Sister Act at Ford’s
Sister Act is a riotous musical comedy smash based on the 1992 hit film that has audiences jumping to their feet. To escape the mob, a nightclub singer hides in a convent disguised as a nun. While there, and at odds with the rigid and sarcastic Mother Superior, she breathes new life into the community and helps her new sisters discover their powerful voices as she discovers her own. Tickets are $48 to $90. Sister Act is at Ford’s Theatre, 511 Tenth St. NW, from March 14 to May 17. It’s recommended for ages 12 and older. fords.org.
Washington Men’s Camerata: Pardon Our French
On Saturday, March 22, 8 p.m., at the First Congregational UCC at 945 G St. NW, join the Washington Men’s Camerata for an evening of French music, complemented by compositions from students of the legendary Nadia Boulanger. Delight in the evocative beauty and exquisite craftsmanship found in the music of French masters such as Gabriel Faure’ and Francis Poulenc alongside the innovative spirit of Boulanger’s students including Aaron Copland and Walter Piston. Sit with them for an evening filled with elegance, creativity, and vibrant color. General admission is $35. camerata.com.
Scott Tucker conducting Washington Men’s Camerata
The Sun Ra Arkestra performing in London in 2010.
cosplay
4th, 11th, 18th & 25th 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
MIRACLE THEATER 535 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/galactic-empiretickets-1255083471449?aff=oddtdtcreator Washington,
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LOCAL CALENDAR
Atlas INTERSECTIONS Festival.
Through March 16. The festival is a month-long celebration of innovative and inspiring performances at the Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. Tickets are $25 to $32. atlasarts.org/intersections2025.
The Age of Innocence at Arena. Through March 30. When Countess Ellen Olenska escapes Europe and a cruel past, only to find herself trapped behind the suffocating gilded cage of New York society and in love with the man engaged to her cousin May, she battles privilege, desire, and tradition in pursuit of her own destiny. arenastage. org.
Brought to You by Schneider's of Capitol Hill
Bloomaroo at the Wharf. March 29, 4 to 9 p.m. Bloomaroo at The Wharf is a free family-friendly event. Come see spring in full bloom at The Wharf, the Home of the Cherry Blossoms! This festival includes live music, Japanese culture activities, a kids craft zone, a stunning fireworks finale and of course, stunning waterfront views of the cherry blossoms. Take the kids by the Kids Craft Zone on Recreation Pier for activites including koi kite decorating, a haiku creation station, balloon artists and more. Fireworks at 8:30 p.m. wharfdc.com.
Orchids: Masters of Deception at the Botanic Garden. Through April 27, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily, visitors are invited to explore thousands of orchids--both beautiful and deceptive--in the Conservatory as part of “Orchids: Masters of Deception.” Explore a variety of orchids from around the world in this 29th annual joint orchid exhibit between the US Botanic Garden and Smithsonian Gardens. usbg.gov.
Duo Veronneau Perform the Music of Joni Mitchell & Carole King. March 14, 7 to 9 p.m. In songs and stories, Veronneau brings to life the music of these celebrated and beloved artists, which launched the singer-songwriter era of the 1970’s and put women center-stage as composers and performers at Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. $20. hillcenterdc.org.
Adult Crafternoon at NE Library. March 1, June 7, Sept. 6 and Dec. 6; 2 to 4 p.m. Fun. Free. In DC. Will probably heal your inner child. Please register so they know how many supplies to get. NE Library, 330 Seventh St. NE. dclibrary.org.
Chiarina Chamber Players’ A Clarinet Celebration. March 2, 7:30 p.m. Clarinetist icon Ricardo Morales joins Chiarina artistic directors and violinist Domenic Salerni in the world premiere of I will dance and dance with you, a work by Venezuelan-American composer Reinaldo Moya that draws on a myriad of panAmerican musical styles and the clarinetists who championed them--from Cuban-American Paquito D’Rivera to New Orleanian Sidney Bechet. $30; free for ages 18 and under, St. Mark’s Capitol Hill, 301 A St. SE. chiarina.org.
Trivia Night at La Cosecha! Tuesdays through April 29, 8 to 10 p.m. Hosted by BP Trivia, Peruvian Brothers and Serenata, this event is free to the public and seating is available on a first-come-first-serve basis. Food and drinks are available for purchase at all La Cosecha vendors. La Cosecha is at 1280 Fourth St. NE. unionmarketdc.com.
Death Cafe at Congressional Cemetery. March 6 and April 3, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Congressional Cemetery welcomes you to join them at one of their monthly Death Cafes at Historic Con-
MARCH MIXED CASE SPECIAL!
Photo: Courtesy of The Wharf, by Chris Fuduka
gressional Cemetery. Suggested donation, $5. 1801 E St. SE. congressionalcemetery.org.
Angelika Pop-up Movies at Union Market. March 3, The Silence of the Lambs; March 9, Lawrence of Arabia; March 17, Belfast; March 24, Momma Mia; April 7, The Big Lebowski; April 13, Ben Hur. 550 Penn St. NE. angelikafilmcenter.com/dc.
DC United at Audi Field Schedule. March 8, 6:30 p.m. vs. Kansas City; March 15, 6:30 p.m. vs. Montreal; March 29, 6:30 p.m. vs. Columbus; April 12, 6:30 p.m., vs. Cincinnati; May 3, 6:30 p.m., vs. Colorado. Tickets start at $29. dcunited.com.
DC Moth StorySLAM: Beef. March 10, 7:30 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.). Prepare a five-minute story about bad blood. The petty grievances that drive you mad, the cold wars waged, long-standing grudges to petty spats, tell all about the rivalries that pushed your buttons. $15. The Miracle Theatre, 535 Eighth St. SE. themiracletheatre.com.
Sing Out Piano Bar and Open Mic with Gay Man’s Chorus. March 12, and April 9; 7:30 to 11 p.m. Come out to sing with live piano accompaniment or just enjoy the music. Free admission. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. atlasarts.org.
Drop-in Orchid Care at the Botanic Garden. March 13, 10 a.m. to noon; and Drop-in Repotting Orchids, March 27, 10 a.m. to noon. usbg.gov.
Smithsonian Chamber Music Society presents Masterworks of Five Centuries. March 16, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. This concert features Ferruccio Busoni’s Berceuse elegiague; Gustav Mahler’s Kindertotenlieder; Richard Strauss’ Metamorphosen; and Osvaldo Golijov’s Tenebrae. St. Mark’s, 301 A St. SE. $36. smithsonianassociates.org.
Upcoming Nat’s Home Games. March 27 (home opener), 4:05 p.m., March 29, 4:05 p.m. and March 30,
Capital City Symphony: Reflect & Revive. March 23, 5 p.m. Capital City Symphony continues its tradition of presenting outstanding young classical solo artists. On March 23, they present Sophia Lin, 2024 winner of the Ylda Novik Memorial Concerto Competition on piano, performing Mozart, Concerto No. 20 in d minor. $40.25. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. atlasarts.org.
1:35 p.m., vs. Phillies. April 4, 6:45 p.m., April 5, 4:05 p.m., and April 6, 1:35 p.m. vs. D-backs. April 7, 6:45 p.m., April 8, 6:45 p.m.; and April 9, 4:05 p.m. vs. Dodgers. mlb.com/nationals.
Hexagon: Splitting Our Sides at the Atlas. March 28 to April 6. Hexagon is two hours of songs, comedy, and slapstick, written and performed by some of Washington’s funniest subversives. The satire is bipartisan—and you can be sure that no good cause will go unpunished—but it’s all in fun. $40.25. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. atlasarts.org.
Global Sounds on the Hill Celebrating Bolero with Miramar. March 28, 7 p.m. In most of Latin America, if you are by the sea, there is bound to be a place called Mira-
Sophia Lin
mar close by. If music is playing, chances are it will be boleros, the romantic music genre that originated in the late 1800’s that became an international music sensation through the collaborations of Puerto Rican, Mexican and Cuban musicians. $20. Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. $20. hillcenterdc.org.
Spring Fair at Congressional Cemetery. March 30, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Discover a vibrant marketplace featuring eco-friendly products, sustainable gifts, handmade crafts, and wholesome eco-treats. From upcycled treasures and organic goods to environmentally conscious creations, there’s something special for everyone to enjoy this season. Congressional Cemetery, 1801 E St. SE. congressionalcemetery.org.
Fake It Until You Make It at Arena. April 3 to May 4. A huge grant application from a tribal casino sends nonprofit rivals tumbling into chaos of farcical proportions in this uproarious exploration of the absurdities of ambition, the politics of identity, and the never-ending search for authenticity. Tickets start at $59. arenastage.org.
Mosaic Theater’s cullud wattah at the Atlas. April 3 to 27. It is 2016 and it has been 936 days and counting since Flint, Michigan, has had clean water. Thirdgeneration General Motors employee Marion finds herself on the cusp of a promotion until her sister begins participating in protests accusing the company of poisoning the water. Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. atlasarts.org.
Union Market District Fresh Farm Market. Open Sundays, April 6 to Dec. 21, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 1298 Fifth St. NE. freshfarm. org. ◆
Looking for Artists
Capitol Hill Art Walk Will be Better Than Ever with Your Help
by Tara Hamilton, photos Jon Golinger
Art is part of the fabric of Capitol Hill and is found in its bookstores, restaurants, frame shops and galleries. A relatively new focus on art has emerged in the annual Capitol Hill Art Walk, presented by the Capitol Hill Art League (CHAL), now in its third year.
The Art Walk is a free event for artists and crafters and the public. Last year, more than 80 artists participated and displayed art in their homes, yards and alleyways. Hundreds of art lovers and curious individuals walked across the Hill over that September weekend to view and buy a wide array of art and craft creations.
The Capitol Hill Art Walk is unique in that there is no limit on the type of art or crafts that may be on display. Whether a professional artist, student, someone who likes to work with fabric,
found objects, or other unusual materials — all are welcome.
Elizabeth Nelson, Chair of the Capitol Hill Restoration (CHRS) Society’s Community Relations Committee, and a key organizer of the Art Walk says, “It was a hugely popular event, and we’re so pleased that the Hill Rag, CHRS and the Hill Center are all supporting CHAL with this event on September 13 and 14 this year.”
Calling all Artists and Crafters
The organizers are starting early this year to line up even more artists and crafters on the Hill to participate in 2025. Last year, many artists grouped together in one location and found it both fun for themselves and an effective draw for visitors. If a Hill artist doesn’t have a yard, see if a neighbor might offer space. The organizers of the Art Walk will also try to find artists a location to share.
There are no fees or commissions taken by the Art Walk organizers. It is up to the artists to price and market their art their own way. If you are an artist who would like to sign up, you can do so for free at this link: HillRag.com/Art-Walk-2025
The deadline is August 11, 2025, to be assured your location is listed on the Art Walk materials and locator map published in the September Hill Rag and online.
Tara Hamilton is a member of CHAL and one of the organizers of the Art Walk. u
All forms of art and craft are appreciated at Art Walk.
Artist Rindy O’Brien with Aaron Myers, Executive Director of the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities.
Colorful baskets on Massachusetts Avenue NE.
A home gallery near H Street NE.
COOKING CLASSES & TASTINGS
Classic Italian Pasta Making with Chef Mark Haskell
Tuesday, March 4, 6:00pm
Mastering the Art of Cake Baking & Decorating Featuring Pastry Chef Padua “SugaChef” Player: Vintage Valentine’s Day Cake
Sunday, February 9, 11:00am Cheb ou Jen, the National Dish of Senegal, with Marianne Tshihamba Saturday, March 8, 11:00am Greek Mezze with Marianne Tshihamba
Wednesday, March 12, 6:00pm Making and Breaking Bread with Chef Mark Haskell Friday, March 14, 6:00pm Cooking for One (or Two): Featuring Noted Chef and Cooking Instructor Susan Barocas
Wednesday, March 19, 11:00am Brazilian Flavors with Marianne Tshihamba
Saturday, March 22, 11:00am Mixology Lab Featuring Cocktail Ace Britt Fox: Spring Cheer
Sunday, March 30, 2:00pm
CONCERTS
Award Winning Duo Veronneau
Perform the Music of Joni Mitchell & Carole King
Friday, March 14, 7:00pm
Global Sounds on the Hill Celebrating Bolero with Miramar Friday, March 28, 7:00pm STUDIO ARTS
Local Makers Workshop: Polymer Clay Earrings w/ Fresh Pear Jewelry
Sunday, March 23, 1:00pm
Contemporary Watercolors Workshop Saturday, March 29, 12:00pm
FILMS & PERFORMANCES
Epidemic Cinema: Hitchcock, the Holocaust and Other Horror
Tuesday, March 4, 6:00pm
MINDFUL MOTION & HEALTH
Wren Zen Meditation Class Monday, March 10, 7:00pm
LECTURES & CONVERSATIONS
Our City. Our Music. Our Writers. Featuring Maurice Jackson and Willard Jenkins
Wednesday, March 12, 7:00pm Jenny McKean Moore Community Reading Featuring Memoirist Kat Chow in Conversation with Writer Jung Yun
Thursday, March 27, 7:00pm
Programmatic support provided by the Capitol Hill Community Foundation and the DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities.
Rm and
Daffodils!
DC’s Early Spring Fling
Article and Photos by Rindy O’Brien
March 20th is the o cial start of spring this year. With the long, cold, snowy winter we have had, it is much anticipated and a time to celebrate. Cherry Blossoms get a lot of attention in DC, but the earlier blooming da odils have historical significance all their own. There are many ways right here in our area to educate yourself about the owers known as the yellow maidens. Why not have a da odil ing this spring?
Scientifically Distinctions
The scienti c genus for da odils and jonquils is Narcissus, of which there are over 50 species. The owers draw their name from the Greek myth about the handsome Narcissus who was so entranced with his re ection in the lake he pined away until his death. The da odil’s head curves down as if it is looking down and admiring its re ection.
There is a lot of variation in the narcissus world. The jonquils have multiple owers on their tube-shaped leaves, while the da odils have at leaves with only one ower head. Colors generally are yellow and white, but over the years there are
thousands of commercially bred variations. Daffodils are poisonous to ingest, which make them deer and squirrel resistant. Our Capitol Hill squirrels will eat all your tulip bulbs but they avoid daffodils which contain a toxic chemical called lycorine from the bulb to the stem to the petals. If you are interested in sorting out the di erent da odils, there are over 32,000 da odil photos on the American Da odil Society website called Da Seek (https://da seek.org/).
Millions of Daffodils
As the weather warms, the da odils start to poke up in our yards and parks. They need six hours of sunlight each day to reach full bloom. Lady Bird Johnson oversaw the planting of millions of da odil bulbs in the early 1960s. The bulbs are long living, so we still see them along the George Washington Memorial Parkway, Rock Creek Parkway, and the Potomac Parkway. The former First Lady also saw to it that thousands of bulbs were planted on Capitol Hill, in other neighborhoods and many public parks. In addition, the Capitol Hill Garden Club held fall bulb sales at Eastern Market for many years in the 1980s, and their e orts are still re ected in our Hill yards.
The
Washington Daffodil Society
Like many specialty owers, da odils have their own nonpro t organization whose mission is to promote the culture of da odils. It was founded at the Mt. Pleasant Branch Library in DC in 1950. Four years later, the national American Da odil Society grew out of the good work of
the Washington group. Currently the organization has between 150-200 members in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Membership is open to all at $15 annual dues.
On Saturday, April 5th from 2 to 5 pm. and Sunday, April 6th from 10 a.m. to 2:00 pm, the Washington Daffodil Society will host its annual show. It will take place at the Scottish Rite Temple located at 1430 West Braddock Road in Alexandria, Virginia, about a 20-minute drive from Capitol Hill. It is a chance for gardeners to learn more about daffodils with members “eager to explain about the show entries and collections,” says President Karen Cogar.
Karen describes the horticultural show like the Westminster Dog show but for daffodils.
“There are hundreds of classes devoted to standard, intermediate and miniature species, classic and historic varieties,” she says. Flowers can be entered for judging singly or in collections, and some collections have 24 stems or more. Each class is judged individually and, in the end, there
is a best in show. “Any daffodil regardless of size or history has a chance to win the best in show,” says Karen. She herself presented the award-winning daffodil named River Queen that won the national best in show last year.
Virginia Experts and Festivals Far and Wide
Karen says she got started exploring daffodils out of curiosity to learn more about the spring flower. She notes that she was lucky that Virginia is a state with many hybridizers and growers including Bill Pannill, an internationally known daffodil expert. Also in Virginia, Becky and Brent Heath of Gloucester are third generation growers who supply thousands of bulbs around the state and in private gardens throughout the mid-Atlantic. Their bulbs are considered some of the best in the world. Robert Darling, a member of the Washington Daffodil Society, is also nationally known for his expertise and speaks to many local garden groups in the DC area.
Karen says she often quotes the saying, “I came for the flowers and stayed for the people.” She has judged at shows all over the country and one of her favorites is the Nantucket Daffodil Show in Massachusetts, which this year is April 24 to 27. The Chamber of Commerce says it signals spring is here with millions of daffodils blooming around the island. Closer to home is the Virginia Daffodil Festival in Gloucester which was first held in 1926. Because daffodils are so prominent in the town, it was named Daffodil Capitol of America sometime in the 1930s or early 1940s. This year’s festival, “It’s All Sunshine and Daffodils,” will be held Saturday, April 5th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, April 6th, from 12 noon to 5 p.m. The festival, which brings more than 15,000 people to Gloucester each spring, includes a Saturday parade and offers activities for children and dogs.
It also includes many vendors offering food and daffodil themed objects and art. The event includes the crowning of the Daffodil Queen and much more. Check the website for all the details, https://www.daffodilfestivalva.org/.
Having attended the Gloucester festival several times, I can attest it is a great way to enjoy small town fun and learn more about the city’s prized flowers. Gloucester is about a three-hour drive from Capitol Hill, and if you take the back roads, it’s a great drive. Here’s hoping you have a wonderful time this spring enjoying daffodils here on the Hill and beyond.
Rindy O’Brien is enjoying some time thinking about the soon to be spring. Contact her at rindyobrien@gmail. com u
The US Botanic Garden currently is showing a multisensory exhibit named Fierce Flora that shares information on the ferious side of plants around the world. Number 14 in the introductory exhibit is the daffodil included for its poisonous stems.
A pot of daffodils can be bought at Capitol Hill’s Trader Joes to jump start spring. The yellow daffodils cost about $9.00, but show-worthy daffodils for competition can cost up to $400 a bulb.
Exposing Interior Brick Walls
by Abigail Sekely
Exposed interior brick walls are a popular design choice in many historic houses, and buildings across DC. The rich variety of color and texture in old bricks can set the tone for chic and inviting interior spaces. Although most homeowners focus on aesthetics, it’s important to remember that interior brick walls are structural and need to be treated with care.
The brick wall visible inside the house is not only attached to, but is an integral part of, the brick wall outside because they are one and the same. Houses in Washington built before 1920 have what are known as “load bearing” walls. That means the strength of the bricks themselves hold the walls in position. These structural walls are generally three brick widths thick, with bricks laid at ninety-degree angles to ensure optimal structural integrity. They are fused together with a lime-based mortar that contains fired lime, sand, and shells.
Originally, brick walls inside historic houses were covered with lath—or wooden strips attached to the wall--covered with multiple layers of plaster. Over time, plaster tends to fail and crack, separating from the lath and the brick wall behind it. When plaster has reached the end of its life, this is a prime opportunity to expose the brick wall underneath.
If a brick wall is covered in plaster, it can easily be removed, but must be
done carefully. The bricks underneath are soft; they have a firm exterior but tend to be spongy and crumbly inside due to age and weathering. Aggressive removal of plaster can damage the faces of bricks. Plaster removal should be done carefully by hand with small chisels.
Plaster removal is inherently messy and will generate a tremendous amount of dust. Before commencement of plaster removal, seal off the work area with plastic tarps taped to the walls, ceiling, and floor to contain dust. Place damp towels at the bottom of door and window openings to help with dust intrusion.
Once plaster is removed from a brick wall, the mortar that was originally placed in the joints between the bricks will need to be replaced. Lime-based mortar is the best option, because it will replicate the strength of the original mortar used. It will also complement the historic bricks in both color and texture.
Following the installation of new mortar, exposed brick walls should be carefully washed to eliminate any residual dust. Application of an opaque or non-shiny sealer will give the wall a uniform finish and also help minimize dust in the future.
After an interior brick wall has been cleaned, tuckpointed, and sealed, it is important not to punch holes in either the brick faces or the mortar. If hanging pictures on the wall is important, consider installing a picture molding instead. Holes in exposed brick walls are not structurally sturdy enough to accommodate heavy frames. Dust from the holes can also be a nuisance.
Although exposing an interior brick wall might seem like a tempting project, it is wise to consider hiring a contractor or masonry professional to handle the job. This will ensure pleasing and lasting results.
Reprinted with permission from an original publication by Renaissance Development. Renaissance Development is a leading masonry contractor specializing in tuckpointing – brick mortar repair using historically appropriate and traditional methods and materials – for lasting brick facade and chimney repair. https:// rendevdc.com. u
A skilled craftsman tuckpoints an interior brick wall that was previously covered in plaster. These bricks have not been exposed since the 1930’s. Photos: Dr. Christina Wilson
by Catherine Plume
Rebates aren’t the Only Reason to Invest in Home Upgrades!
The plethora of Executive Orders is hard to keep up with, and while many Biden-era programs have been cut, as of this writing, key components of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) that provide discounts and rebates for energyefficient appliances and home efficiency projects are still intact. DC’s Department of Energy and the Environment, with the DC Sustainable Energy Utility (DC SEU), oversees these and other rebate programs, many of which are available regardless of household income. An overview can be found at: https://doee. dc.gov/service/ira-rebates-tax-incentives. And rebates and discounts aside, energy-efficient investments will still save you money on your utility bills, make your home run more efficiently, and in many cases, improve the air quality in your home. Here are a few investments to consider:
Solar
DC still has one of the most cost effective solar programs in the US. The IRA provides a 30 percent rebate for the installation of a solar array that can include the cost of a new roof. Meanwhile, DC’s regulation requiring commercial buildings without solar or without enough solar power to cover their use to purchase Solar Energy Credits (SRECs) generated in the District means that homeowners who purchase solar (vs. leasing it) are guaranteed an income source form the sale of their SRECs while
reducing their monthly electric bill. Most residents are able to recover the cost of their solar installations in 46 years. While “building-integrated photovoltaics,” or BIPV is evolving–think roof shingles and windows that capture solar energy–they are currently used primarily in the commercial sector as they currently aren’t as efficient as solar panels, and they are more costly.
Heating and Cooling
Improving your home heating system is another great way to save money – and improve the air quality in your home. Do you need to keep your entire home heated or cooled all the time? Mini-split heat pumps allow you to heat or cool specific rooms versus your entire house. And if you’re not ready to invest in a new whole house system, simply re-
placing the air filter on your HVAC regularly can ensure efficiency and good airflow throughout your home. A smart thermostat is easy to install and allows you to create a heating/ cooling schedule and regulate the temperature in your home from afar. Meanwhile, Energy-Star rated ceiling fans require minimal energy and can help cool and heat ambient air year round.
Stoves and Cooktops
Replacing a gas stove is an excellent way to improve the air quality in your home. A 2024 report Cooking Up Danger by The Beyond Gas Coalition found that of 269 kitchens tested in DC, 206 (77%) recorded nitrogen dioxide (NO2) readings over 100 parts per billion (ppb), the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) health-protective standard for one hour of outside exposure to NO2. (The EPA has no interior N02 limits, but we know that interior air circulates less than outside air, so acceptable limits would be lower). NO2 exposure can cause/aggravate respiratory problems as well as hypertension and heart attacks. Electric and induction stoves don’t emit NO2. Hill resident Lara Levison purchased an induction stove just over a year ago. She notes, “I absolutely love our induction stove. It heats up food and water FAST but never gets dangerously hot; cooking temperatures can be adjusted almost instantly; it cleans up fast and easy; and it doesn’t put hazardous combustion fumes into the air inside our home.
Even if all you care about is the cooking experience, there’s no contest. Induction is the best way to cook!”
The DC SEU offers rebates ranging from $400-$800 regardless of household income for the purchase of Energy Star induction and electric stoves. (https://www.dcseu. com/residential-rebates/stoves). Rebates are also available for any electric upgrade needed to support these appliances. You’ll need to hire a licensed electrician to do the work and submit pictures to verify your purchase and upgrades, so read up on the requirements before starting your project. You’ll also want to ensure that your current cookware will work on an induction stove (hint: if a magnet will stick to the bottom of the pan it will work).
Electrical systems
Have you ever tripped a circuit when you’re running the microwave and blender at the same time? Capitol Hill homes often have outdated (and sometime dangerous) electrical systems. Installing a smart electrical panel can make economic sense, save you money on your monthly electric bills, provide added interior and exterior security, and make your home run more efficiently. The type of system will depend on your needs (integrating a solar battery, creating a smart home that responds to apps, installing an EV charger, heat pump, and/or induction stove). Wilcox Electric has worked in and around DC, including the Hill, for over 30 years. Steve Wilcox, Master Electrician and own-
Gas stoves emit harmful gasses into your home. Induction and electric stoves don’t. Photo credit: C. Plume
er notes, “When we enter a home, the rst thing we want to get right is your electric panel. Electric codes have changed, and many homes just don’t have the number of circuits needed to power modern-day appliances.” On average, electrical panels have 20-30 year lifespan. It’s good practice to have a maintenance check on your panel every 3-5 years to avoid any electrical issues and ensure no circuits are loose.
Lighting
Solar and LED lighting can save you money and are now available in many models. I’ve learned from personal experience that not all lighting models solar or LED lighting live up to their promises and stop functioning after only a few months. Be sure to read reviews before purchasing items. And, buying a more expensive item and a warranty may save you headaches in the long run. The old adage of ‘You get what you pay for’ de nitely applies to lighting.
Security
Smart doorbells that include a camera can provide added security to your home and thwart porch pirates. Models can often be hard wired us-
ing existing wiring or, if hard-wiring is challenging, many models are battery powered while some models offer the option of either method. Most have an app which provides you and other family members with immediate noti cations (including video footage) of anyone arriving at your door. With many models, you can even talk with them! If you register your smart doorbell with the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), DC o ers a rebate program of up to $500 for homeowner and tenants and up to $750 for commercial establishments. See https:// mayor.dc.gov/release/mayor-bowser-launches-private-security-cameraprogram-part-safer-stronger-dc-initiative for more information on this program.
Fortunately, we live in a city that is committed to energy e ciency, clean air, and cost savings for all residents. Take advantage of these programs while they’re here. You never know what tomorrow may bring.
Catherine Plume is a lifelong environmentalist, a writer, and a member of the Executive Committee of the Sierra Club DC Chapter and an Admin for her neighborhood BuyNothing group. Perspectives expressed are her own and do not necessarily represent the positions of that organization. ◆
When is the last time you had your electric panel inspected? Photo credit: C. Plume
About Maintaining A Hill Home Five Things to Know
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
One of the great things about buying a home on the Hill is that most of them are more than 100 years old. Each one is built to last. To achieve continue that kind of longevity, you need to inspect and maintain your home. That’s true of any home, of course, but many Hill homes have particular quirks. We asked local experts to talk about five key things Hill homeowners should note.
Historic and Permits
Many Capitol Hill homes are located in the historic district, a large area stretching from the U.S. Capitol grounds east to 14th Street and from Navy Yard north to F Street, NE. The best way to see if you are in a historical district is to enter your address at www.propertyquest.dc.gov. If you are, the important original features of the property have to be retained, and any changes have to be “compatible in character’ with the neighborhood. That means any altera-
tions to the parts of your house that can be seen from public space are subject to review by the city’s Historic Preservation Review Board (HPRB) —that includes door and window replacement as well as fencing and approval of additions. Whether you’re in the historic district or not, all structural and some nonstructural work, such as plumbing, wiring or air conditioning, requires permits from the Department of Buildings (DOB). If you have a contractor, they will usually help with this. If you will use public space for construction, such as for a dumpster, crane or material storage, you’ll need a permit for that too. You can find a list outlining when you need permits at https://dob.dc.gov/page/ permitting-district-columbia.
Public Space
According to DC Code, our front yards are actually city property, says former HPRB member and long-time Hill resident Nancy Metzger. For most houses that’s from the sidewalk to the front facade. You’re not taxed on it, but you are required to maintain it in a reasonable fashion. If you wish to make permanent changes to front yards, such as pavers or fences, get a permit or you’re likely to get a fine and a stop-work order. Similarly, homeowners are responsible for maintaining the tree boxes or grassy strips between the sidewalk and street in front of their houses. They are also responsible for snow removal on all sidewalks adjacent to their property. The District does not perform these functions, except adjacent to facilities like schools.
G.L. Barnhart rebuilt this historic brick staircase and entryway to match the original appearance. Photo: G.L. Barnhart, Courtesy: CHRS
Roofs
There is a wide variety of roof shapes and roofing materials on the Hill. Some, such as slate-covered turrets, may require custom work for replacement. But the most Hill residential roofs are at. Two common problems are linked to the shared ownership of parapet walls, the raised barriers at the edge of the roof. Get permission from your neighbor so the roofer can nish the roof properly to avoid leaks. Many Hill homes have AC units on the roof, or solar panels. Replacement of the air conditioner on many Hill roofs can require a crane.
Homeowners should also check to see if nature is encroaching on their roofs. Tom Daniel of R. Thomas Roo ng (rthomasdanielroo ng.com) recommends homeowners trim any branches within six feet of the roof. Branches create shade, preventing moisture from evaporating quickly, accelerating the decay of your roof and causing leaks. They also drop leaves into your eavestroughs!
Water
DC has two rivers and a lot of rain. Water is everywhere in the District, including inside of your home in sinks, toilets and plumbing. Make sure the grade of the ground around the foundation slopes away from your house. It is a good idea to have a drainage system in the yard that moves water away from your house. You should also have your plumbing inspected once a year to check for leaking pipes and running toilets. Check the drainage near doglegs (which don’t get much sunlight) to avoid damage to your brick walls.
Brick and Mortar
What is tuckpointing? That’s when the mortar or cement in between
bricks is repaired, either in speci c areas or on the whole house. It involves removing paint and old mortar and reapplying with the proper mix to replace it. The process must be done during spring or fall to avoid the e ect of extreme temperatures on the mortar. If you are repointing your entire home, the whole structure will need to be scaffolded. But don’t worry. According to Tom Michaliga, of Michaliga Masonry (michaligamasonry.com), a well-done and maintained brick pointing job might only be necessary once every 50-70 years. Identify problems early on by inspecting your home annually and make it easy on yourself: don’t paint your home if it’s not painted.
But if your home is already painted, don’t strip it just yet. While exposed brick is attractive, experts recommend you don’t strip exterior paint to repoint unless there are signs it is required, like loose or cracked bricks, damp plaster or interior water damage. “If the paint on your house has been well maintained, you have no structural concerns and you have no water damage, it is better not to strip and repoint,” preservation planner Marie Fennell wrote in a CHRS case study. That’s because softer brick can be weakened by methods used to remove paint. But paint isn’t all bad: sometimes paint is used to give protection to soft or damaged brick. You don’t want to risk removing protection and doing damage unless you’ve been advised by a professional.
G G ROOFING
An Annual Checklist to Home Maintenance
SPRING
Clean gutters
Turn outdoor water on, test water pressure
Check water heater
Inspect exterior of home (siding, brick) for wear, cracks, bulges or stains
Check if trees touch or pull on electric lines, or touch the home exterior
Check roof for deterioration, tears or holes. Look for leaning in the chimney. Check that the ashing (material where roof meets other surfaces, like walls or chimney) is in good condition.
Put on window screens
Inspect and test A/C system
Test water heater pressure relief valve
Inspect trees for signs of disease or to remove dead wood
Power wash deck or patio
Deep clean house
FALL
Clean gutters
Sweep and inspect chimney
Inspect replace for damage/hazards
Turn o outdoor water and drain faucets
Put on storm windows
Vacuum refrigerator coil
Ensure home exhaust is not blocked (HVAC, dryer vents)
Inspect Heating/HVAC system. Check around radiators for leaks, damaged oors or deterioration.
Winterize AC unit
Test water heater pressure relief valve
ANNUALLY
Check door and window locks; check seals for cracks
Check and repair caulking around showers, bathtubs, toilets
Decalcify shower heads
Inspect plumbing; check for corrosion, green stains or signs of leaks in exposed pipes and taps
MONTHLY
Clear oor and outdoor drains
Change HVAC lter
Clean kitchen sink garbage disposal
Clean range hood
Inspect re extinguishers
Test smoke and CO alarms
Flush hot water heater to remove sediment
Open electrical panel and look for scorch marks around breakers or fuses
Examine retaining walls and foundation for cracks or bulges
LIFE SPAN ESTIMATES
We’ve consulted with local experts and asked them how long you can expect common household appliances to last. Note that these are averages only for planning purposes. Great variation is possible according to individual circumstances.
Furnace: 15-20 years
Water heater: 8-10 years
HVAC: 10-15 years
Boiler: 15-30 years
Oven: 15-20 years
Dishwasher: 10-25 years
Refrigerator: 7-10 years
Washer: 10-15 years
Dryer: 15-20 years
Roof: 15-20 years, except slate
Interior paint: 3-5 years
Brick repointing: 25-50 years
Ironwork: 50-100 years
Pressure-treated wood: 8-12 years ◆
One fall afternoon, Derek Thomas, an experienced landscaper and certified professional horticulturist, was driving down a sleepy neighborhood street when something caught his attention: homeowners carelessly pruning a maple tree. To an untrained eye, they appeared to be taking good care of their yard, but with his wealth of knowledge rooted in his lifelong love of gardening, Thomas couldn’t pass by. He stopped his car, rolled down the window and shared a piece of wisdom that he learned throughout his decades of hands-on experience: you cannot prune maple trees in the fall.
“They look at me like I’m crazy, but the tree will literally just continue to bleed out,” Thomas said. “It literally kills itself.”
Whether it’s cultivating your garden, deterring pests from your property, maintaining air conditioning during a heatwave or ensuring you don’t accidentally kill your favorite maple tree, the expertise of local maintenance contractors can be important. They can adeptly step in during a crisis, but contractors can also share knowledge to prevent problems, improve efficiency and ensure your home and garden remains in good shape for years to come.
Maintenance Contracts
The Homeowner’s Key to Peace of Mind
by Sarah Payne
Landscaping
According to Thomas, owner of Thomas Landscapes, the historic streets of Capitol Hill are home to some of the “most enviable” gardens in the District. While many of these homes have limited green space, landscaping services have the ability to transform and personalize the exterior of any home. “And even small backyards can become oases if they’re properly planned,” he said.
Thomas Landscapes offers a variety of “bookend” services to help homeowners prepare their yards and gardens for different seasons. Technicians will visit once in the spring to assess the condition of the home and provide clean up services including soil amendments, mulching and plant preparation. In the fall, the technician will return to prepare the space for winter through additional soil amendments and other routine maintenance. For gardens in need of additional attention, or for clients looking to develop a more personalized space, both quarterly and monthly maintenance plans are available.
Any type of yard maintenance is a worthwhile investment, Thomas said, noting that customers tend to require landscaping services less frequently over time if well maintained. “Weeds tend to grow back in untended soil, and plants get diseases in untended environments,” he noted.
Thomas Landscapes also collaborates with local experts to help their clients secure the services they need to keep their outside sapce looking its best. Their relationships with local arborists, and other contractors help streamline the maintenance and design processes for clients by seamlessly connecting them with the right people for the job.
Pest Control
When a rodent or insect makes its way indoors, many homeowners turn to traps. Fleurie Kamga of FLK Pest Control says this common practice may do more harm than good “That bait is food, even though it’s going to kill them,” Kamga said. “You’ll end up having even more [pests].”
“Exclusion” services, Kamga said, are the answer. These specialized treatments work to preventatively find the access points used by rodents and insects and seal them. Living in a city, he added, exposes homeowners to a variety of infestation risks that are often out of a homeowner’s control. Routine services, particularly for those with frequent infestations, can come in the form of monthly treatments or check-ins on the integrity of sealed access points.
While the use of chemicals is necessary to eliminate some pests like termites, Kamga prefers to treat homes without them. When chemicals are needed, they spot-treat the cracks and crevices where pests
Backyards are living space and deserve regular care. This backyard redesign project is by Thomas Landscapes. Photo: Thomas Landscapes.
BioTech owner and chief technician, Clifford Akpan, services a home. Photo courtesy of BioTech Pest Management.
are entering the home so as to “not spray chemicals all over the house,” he said.
Owner and Chief Operator of BioTech Pest Management, Cli ord Akpan, echoed Kamga’s emphasis on the bene ts of a “proactive rather than reactive” approach that identi es potential risks early and focuses on long-term prevention e orts all year round.
“Investing in preventative pest management is one of the most e ective ways for homeowners to protect their properties from costly damage and health risks,” Akpan said, citing the health hazards, contamination threats and structural risks that pests and wildlife pose for homeowners.
Homeowners can also protect themselves from summer mosquitos through the treatment of their outdoor living spaces. Capitol Mosquito Control specializes in organic treatment options that are safe for your home and the environment. Unlike alternative synthetic treatments, the organic application is safe for pets and bene cial insects like bees and butter ies and does not require a delayed reentry into the yard, manager Al Nelson said.
The preventative service includes an outdoor treatment every two weeks from April through September. The spray kills mosquitoes on contact and has a long-lasting repellent e ect. Most exterior areas of the home including bushes, grass, mulch, plants and around outdoor decks are treated. They also o er one-time services for homeowners hosting special events, but Nelson recommends regular treatments to better control the large population of the mosquitoes in the summer months.
Beyond the spray, technicians are also on the lookout for anything that may attract mosquitoes to their
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
ers undergo annual inspections of their heating, air conditioning systems and plumbing systems. An annual inspection, Brodowski said, is generally su cient to identify any issues the homeowner may need to address.
client’s property. “They’ll address anything that they see,” Nelson said, noting that standing water in trash cans and alleys can become a breeding ground for the pests. “Even if it’s not on our customer’s property, we’ll take care of it.”
Heating, Cooling and More
The District’s temperature extremes make heating and cooling services a necessity all year round.
Sila Services offers HVAC, plumbing and drain services for emergencies, installation and routine maintenance. The Sila home maintenance services are part of a unique membership program that includes comprehensive coverage for the entire home under a single monthly or annual fee resulting in “whole home protection,” according to general manager Evan Brodowski.
Per manufacturer recommendations, Sila suggests that homeown-
In case of emergency, Sila also provides 24/7 services for the unexpected circumstances every homeowner fears. Their professional, licensed and certied technicians are always there to help. Brodowski said technicians are at work on nearly every major holiday and noted the importance of relationships between homeowners and contractors, especially in emergency situations.
“You’ll become a priority to them,” Brodowski said. “I remember one Christmas a new customer called us multiple times to come out because they couldn’t get a response from any other company. Typically we wouldn’t have sent a tech out on Christmas but we felt terrible so we sent a technician out and he ended up xing the problem very quickly.”
Sarah Payne is a reporter for Capital Community News. She can be reached at sarahp@hillrag.com. ◆
A Sila technician prepares to service a home.
Photo courtesy of Sila.
A technician prepares to spray a client’s yard for mosquitoes during the summer months.
Photo courtesy of Capitol Mosquito Control.
Pros and Cons of Metal Roofs
Metal roofs, of which almost all of the original roofs in Capitol Hill were constructed, have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their durability, longevity, and aesthetic appeal. However, like any roofing material, they come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this detailed analysis, we will explore the pros and cons of metal roofs to help Capitol Hill homeowners make an informed decision.
Pros of Metal Roofs
1. Durability
One of the most significant advantages of metal roofs is their durability. Metal roofs can withstand extreme weather conditions, including heavy rain, snow, high winds, and even hail. Unlike traditional asphalt shingles or single ply roofs, metal roofs do not crack, warp, or rot, making them a long-lasting option.
2. Longevity
Metal roofs have an impressive lifespan. While single ply roofs such as EPDM, TPO and Modified Bitumen roofs may need to be replaced every 15-20 years, metal roofs can last 40-70 years or more, depending on the material used. This longevity makes metal roofs a cost-effective investment in the long run.
3. Energy Efficiency
Metal roofs are highly reflective, which means they can reflect much of the sun’s heat away from the building. This reflective property helps reduce cooling costs in the summer, making metal roofs an energy-efficient choice. Some metal roofs also come with special coatings that enhance their energy efficiency further.
4. Low Maintenance
Metal roofs require minimal maintenance compared to other roofing materials. They are resistant to common issues such as moss, mildew, and insect infestations. Regular inspections and occasional cleaning are usually sufficient to keep a metal roof in good condition.
5. Eco-Friendly
Metal roofing materials are often made from
recycled content and are fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan. This makes metal roofs an environmentally friendly option. Additionally, their energy efficiency can contribute to reducing a home’s overall carbon footprint.
6. Aesthetic Versatility
Metal roofs come in a variety of styles, colors, and finishes, making them suitable for a wide range of architectural designs. Whether you prefer the look of traditional shingles, tiles, or modern standing seam
panels, there is a metal roofing option to match your aesthetic preferences.
Cons of Metal Roofs
1.
Higher Initial Cost
One of the main drawbacks of metal roofs is the higher initial cost of materials and installation compared to other roofing materials. However, the long-term savings in maintenance and replacement costs can offset this initial investment. Homeowners Joe and Vicki on 8th St SE near Eastern Market, explained their investment in a new copper roof: “This was a long term investment in our home that was consistent with our long term outlook.”
2. Noise
Metal roofs can be noisier than other roofing materials, especially during heavy rain or hailstorms. While some homeowners appreciate the sound of rain on a metal roof, others may find it disruptive. Adding insulation or a solid sheathing layer beneath the metal roof can help reduce noise levels.
3. Expansion and Contraction
Metal roofs can expand and contract with temperature changes. This movement can sometimes cause the fasteners to loosen over time, potentially leading to leaks. Proper installation and the use of appropriate fasteners can mitigate this issue.
4. Denting
While metal roofs are generally durable,
they can be susceptible to denting from heavy impacts, such as falling branches or large hailstones. Some metal roo ng materials are more resistant to denting than others, so it’s essential to choose a product that suits your local climate and environmental conditions.
5. Limited Availability of Contractors
Not all roo ng contractors have experience with metal roof installations. Finding a quali ed and experienced contractor may be more challenging than for more common roo ng materials. It’s crucial to choose a contractor with a proven track record in metal roo ng to ensure proper installation.
6. Potential for Rust
While many modern metal roofs come with protective coatings to prevent rust, there is still a potential for rust to develop. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and address any rust issues early.
Metal roofs o er a range of benefits, including durability, longevity, energy e ciency, and aesthetic versatility. However, they also come with some drawbacks, such as higher initial costs, noise, and potential for denting and rust. Homeowners should carefully consider these pros and cons when deciding whether a metal roof is the right choice for their home. Overall, the long-term benets often outweigh the initial challenges, making metal roofs a smart investment for those seeking a durable and sustainable roo ng solution.
Keeping the Hill Iron-Clad
Maintained Ironwork Will Last for Centuries
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
The classic Capitol Hill screetscape is a row of colorful homes along tree-lined streets fronted by fronted by black iron fences running along our front yards and iron staircases with elaborate newel posts at the entry to many of our homes. Some homes are decorated with ornate window hoods and decorative motifs along the rooftops. Why is ironwork so prevalent on the Hill?
According a study by Judith M. Capen and Patrick Lally for the Capitol Hill Restoration Society (CHRS), it’s partly because Capitol Hill experienced a burst of growth during the post-Civil war period, a time when the use of cast iron in construction also experienced rapid expansion. Towards the end of the 19th century, there were up to fifteen foundries in the District alone. That made ornate ironwork more accessible, as patterns too expensive to have carved in wood or stone could now be cast in iron.
Some of this ironwork is a century and a half old. But, say the experts, it can last indefinitely with proper maintenance.
Maintaining Ironwork
Federal City Ironworks (federalcityiron. com) founder Marshall May suggests all metal be looked at or inspected by the homeowner at least once every three years. Rust is what you’re trying to spot.
May says new rust is bright orange, morphing into a deep red and almost purple color as it ages. Also check for cracks or chipped or missing pieces, which weaken ironwork and create entryways for water.
Where rust is found, it should be scraped with a metal brush. If a brush won’t fit, you can use a flat head screwdriver, May said. Then the area should be wiped clean with a dry rag to remove any dust or particulates from the surface. Finally, the area should be painted over with a good quality paint that is meant to adhere to metal; May suggests homeowners use Rust-Oleum.
Sandblasting is one way to remove layers of paint, but this requires protection of the home’s masonry to prevent damage. An alternative CHRS recommends is stripping ironwork with a combination of heat, metal brushes and chemical strippers. The downside to this method is that most chemical strippers are messy
A typical black iron fence provides a charming frame for these roses. Photo: M. Ashabranner
Ornamental iron fencing around the Hill Center was restored in 2009. Photo: E. O’Gorek/CCN
and have a strong smell. Stripped
risk: the mechanical connections between risers and between railing, level and riser.
What homeowners need to look out for are bouncing or shifting on steps or landings, cracked or missing sections and falling pieces of the stairs. When you inspect the stairs, don’t forget to check underneath the riser, which may not have been painted. Also check places where pieces are bolted together, where rust tends to accumulate. That can weaken the connections and cause pieces to separate.
Cast iron stairs can be difcult to repair properly. For instance, did you know an iron stair post is generally hollow, attached to the stair by an interior post that is bolted to the riser and then capped? If that post is improperly reattached, for instance by welding, it can cause damage to the stairs.
“I would usually suggest that if you think you might have an issue with your cast iron stairs, call for a quote,” May said. He recommends basic maintenance on cast iron stairs be done at least every ve or 10 years. That is mainly to make sure the bolts on the stairs are still in a good condition and that expansion rust isn’t putting pressure on the joints. Most people wait much longer than they should before getting
their stair repaired, costing themselves more money in the long run.
If your home is in the Capitol Hill Historic District, you must preserve these elements and replacement materials must be compatible with the defining characteristics of the area. CHRS recommends that homeowners repair staircases whenever possible, seeking parts from salvage or even having them replicated. Experts can often find ways to replicate or repair pieces; in some cases, different materials can be used, depending on if the replacement is ornamental or structural.
Maintaining your ironwork is a worthy investment. Victorian ironwork is durable, strong, fire resistant, beautiful and helps to define both individual
homes as well as the historic neighborhood of Capitol Hill. Learn more about Federal City Ironworks at federalcityiron. com. Read more about the history and maintenance of historical ironwork at chrs.org. u
According to CHRS, most Hill homes have cast iron staircases featuring ornamental newel posts and riser patterns. Photo: E. O’Gorek/CCN
Iron was used to create the ornamental door and window hoods that crown this South Carolina Avenue home. Photo: E. O’Gorek/CCN
What is a Home Inspection?
(and Why You Need One)
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
In March 2022, my husband and I bought a house. Though it was sparkling clean, and looked to be in great shape, it was more than a hundred years old. So, before we laid down hundreds of thousands of dollars, we wanted to know: what lies beneath the skin of this 100-year-old blue monster?
What is a Home Inspection
Home inspections are generally conducted by people preparing to buy— and sometimes, to sell— their homes. In a housing inspection, a trained
person will look at the elements of your home, from the big components: the structure, the brick, the roof and systems like electrical and plumbing—all the way to smaller details like the faucets and loose tile.
The typical cost for home inspection is anywhere from $200 to $630 in DC, depending on factors like the age and size of your home. Depending on the size of the property, a good inspector can take from a couple of hours to an entire day. You can pay less if you follow the inspector and take your own notes; for a fee, they will create a full report with photos illustrating the issues outlined.
Nearly every realtor will recommend that if you want to buy a home, you get an inspection; some lenders may require it. The only exception to that requirement might be a well-maintained condo, because the risk is lower: big ticket items like windows are the responsibility of the collective.
Inspections and Offers
A friend of mine who was a realtor on the Hill for many years has seen o ers made quickly, sometimes far over the asking price by people fearful of losing out on their dream house if their o er is not attrac-
tive enough. A pre-offer inspection can reassure the seller, removing one reason why a buyer might back out of the deal or renegotiate a price, she said.
But in a seller’s market, it might not be enough to tip the scales. You can spend hundreds on an inspection and still not get the house. That can add up. ”That money is just gone,” she said.
A post-o er inspection can be used as a negotiating tool, Schoell. Sometimes prospective buyers will ask the seller to make repairs or to “credit” the cost of repairs against the purchase price, up to three percent of the value of the loan.
No Such Thing As Perfect
She has attended hundreds of inspections and she has never seen a perfect report. ”There’s always something to be improved upon.” Even in new builds, a good inspector will point to places where standards are not quite met: a water heater expander is missing a clamp; a drainage pipe is a bit shorter than recommended; caulking shows wear and should be redone.
Either way, she is clear with her buyers: don’t skip the inspection. “You have to know what could be
wrong with the property before you make the biggest investment you’re ever going to make,” she said. And the cost of not having an inspection could be so great.
Trusting Your Inspector
For a pre-o er inspection, you want your inspector to come quickly. Realtors often have a go-to inspection company that they trust. Most inspectors are specially trained to look out for things that other people would not think about or would not be able to identify. In DC, unlike Virginia and Maryland, home inspectors are not required to be licensed, so you will want to check if your in-
The home inspector climbed into the attic for this inspection, flagging the air handler as a health concern due to possible fungal grown and recommending it be serviced by a licensed HVAC technician. Photo: Ensign
Ensign home inspector Adam Gates crawled under the author’s kitchen sink and flagged these improperly terminated “*live”* wires underneath as a safety concern, recommending a licensed electrician cap the exposed wires and install a cover plate. Photo: Ensign
spector is certified, either by a state organization, or by a national organization such as the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI).
While most people contact a home inspector as they prepare to buy, sometimes homeowners want an inspection if they are considering doing renovations or simply want to check up on the condition of their home. An inspection of a home’s structure prior to a renovation can point to issues that might need to be dealt with, helping to set a realistic budget for a project. Similarly, a regular inspection can point to developing concerns in a home, which will help you prioritize and save money down the line.
New and old homeowners need to balance the cost of doing a home inspection with the potential consequences of not doing it.
Our home inspector, Adam Gates with Ensign Home Inspections, told us about the time he was hired to inspect a remodeled $4 million home in Northwest. Bending his tall frame into the back of the utility room, he found the ue had been disconnected. The furnace was pumping carbon monoxide into the house.
“That’s the kind of thing noone is going to notice until the mail starts piling up outside,” Gates ruefully remembered.
A home inspection helps you to identify things you wouldn’t have seen, helps to prioritize your home maintenance schedule and budget, and gives you a sense of con dence about the biggest purchase you’ll likely ever make— and then, to plan for resale. It’s one way of giving your home a regular check up that won’t break the bank – but the information is invaluable. ◆
Keith Roofing
In The Weeds
by Capitol Hill Garden Club
I’ve planted a variety of nectar-rich native owers. How else can I attract bees and butter ies to my garden?
You can o er pollinators a drink. Bees drink water to help with digestion. Nurse bees need water to create royal jelly to feed the larvae. During summer, honeybees keep cool by adding water to their hive and fanning it with their wings. Place a shallow container of water at ground level shaded by nearby owers. Pollinators need to drink without getting their feet wet. Fill the container with rocks or small sticks that sit above the water creating islands for the bees to land on. Change the water often. Capital naturalist Alonso Abugattas Jr. suggests using mosquito dunks to control unwanted larvae but not harm bees or other insects. Avoid letting the bee bath dry out. The bees will nd a new source and it may be di cult to lure them back. Bees are faithful to their water source so setting up your bee bath in spring is ideal.
Butter ies suck up water from wet mud. This behavior called puddling also provides salts and minerals needed by butter ies to attract mates and to support egg-laying. You can create a natural puddling area by digging a shallow depression in a sunny area near owers. Line it with plastic weed barrier for durability. Cover it with 1-2 inches of soil and add water to create a wet mud. Place rocks in it to serve as landing and basking spots. Keep it moist by hand watering or placing it near drip irrigation. If you don’t have room for a puddling area, make a puddling station by lling a small dish with sand and compost and adding water to create wet mud. Place it in a depression in the ground or even on a pedestal so you can enjoy the visiting pollinators.
I want to enjoy my garden in the evening when I get home from work. What do you suggest?
Plant a moon garden! Now is the time to plan how your garden will look and smell at night. Choose plants that re ect moonlight
to create a space that feels magical. Look for owers and foliage in the white and silver color palette. In early spring, consider Galanthus or snowdrops, white tulips, or creeping phlox, Phlox subulata. Fragrant lily of the valley, Convallaria majalis, can scent the evening air. Artist Claude Monet used a white theme in his spring garden in Giverny by lining the border with white narcissus under the snowy blossoms of a plum tree. Summer blooms of sweet alyssum, Lobularia maritima, and white varieties of petunia and cleome will add varying heights. White blooms layered with colorful owers will keep your garden vibrant during the day yet mystical at night. The rich scent of the night bloomer Gardenia jasminoides can evoke a sense of tranquility. The morning glory sibling, the giant moon ower, Ipomoea alba, is a prized heirloom. Opening around dusk, huge trumpet-shaped luminous owers deliver a sweet fragrance attracting moth pollinators. By dawn, the ower fades. This climbing vine may grow to 20 feet and will need the support of a trellis. An autumn moon garden can showcase white chrysanthemums or even white eggplant, Solanum melongena, and white pumpkin, Cucurbita maxima.
A container with foliage accents of the trailing silver falls, Dichondra argentea, mixed with the texture of ornamental kale and sweet blooms of Hymenocallis, the spider lily, will o er a fragrant evening respite. Accent with soft lighting, wind chimes or a re ective gazing ball for the ultimate moon garden experience.
Emperor Babur in the 16th century built a moon garden across from the Taj Mahal. Can you grow one on Capitol Hill?
Gardening advice from the Capitol Hill Garden Club. Send your questions to capitolhillgardenclub@gmail.com.
Moon garden flower. photo: Barbara Gowan
ChangingHands
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.
CAPITOL STREETS
Mayor Says NFL Stadium Fastest
Route
to RFK Development
What We Know About Plans for RFK Campus
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
Mayor Muriel Bowser made it clear at a Feb. 13 night meeting that she seeks an NFL Stadium at RFK Campus as the anchor for development of the 177-acre site, setting the stage for extensive debate particularly around the question of who would pay.
The two-hour meeting was held in the auditorium of Eastern High School (1700 E. Capitol St. NE), the 1400-seats nearly filled.
News You May Have Missed from HillRag.com
Plans
Bowser said that District control of the RFK site came after a 13-year effort that culminated at the right moment. “We haven’t always been able to say we have the right partner in the Washington football team, but that’s changed,” she said.
There are not yet concept drawings of a stadium, Bowser said. “The charge that we would give any architect that works with us is that this stadium will be on the monumental axis in the nation’s capital that’s built on the L’Enfant plan,” the mayor said. “It has to be big, not big in terms of size, but the vision of it.”
Bowser asserted that the fastest way to develop the RFK Campus with all potential amenities is to anchor it with an NFL stadium. She pointed to Whole Foods at Walter Reed, the Anthem at The Wharf and the District-built hospital at St. Elizabeth East.
The Mayor said planning is in very preliminary stages. The city is thinking about what kind of investments the District would be willing to make. Other considerations include park uses and how to deliver commercial, residential and entertainment offerings.
Right now, Bowser said, thinking is that the stadium would occupy 20-25 acres on the campus, with additional space for parking garages, she said. When asked, she would not hypothesize on how many acres parking might require.
Both Bowser and Ward 7 Councilmember Wendell Felder (D), who spearheaded the meeting, assured attendees that they were in conversation with WMATA about potential improvements and additions to metro at the site.
A youth sportsplex first proposed and funded by the mayor in 2022 was still in the plans, she said, although funding had subsequently been voted out of the budget in 2024 and would have to be reallocated.
The Commanders, she said, had other choices in the region. But she repeated her belief that the District has the best site, a site at the center of the
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
region well-served by transit and where the Commanders have a winning history.
At this moment, Bowser argued, the District had the opportunity to shape a vision at RFK, a vision that she has discussed since “day one.”
“In my very first swearing-in speech,” Bowser said, “I said we will have a Super Bowl in Washington, DC.”
What the Commanders Said
The Washington Commanders did not attend the meeting at Eastern. But, Commissioner Ebony Payne (7D05) told the crowd at a Friends of Kingman Park (FOKP) meeting held earlier in February that she had spoken with representatives of the Washington Commanders. She was told the Commanders were planning for a 65,000 person “superdome” style stadium with parking for about 10-12,000 vehicles. About 75 percent would be in garages with limited surface parking lots. The team had a site plan, a map indicating what type of development would go where on the campus, but no concept designs or drawings.
Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) points to a slide introducing the District’s new website for development at RFK Campus. Photo: A.Lightman/CCN
DC Vault Coach Ed Luthy at a Feb. 4 FOKP meeting. He also appeared at the Feb. 13 meeting, bringing a slew of youth in DC Vault garb. Photo: E.O’Gorek/CCN
Two retail zones were indicated on the campus map, one near the metro entrance, according to information representatives conveyed to the commissioner. Another located near the water was indicated as including market rate housing. The area currently north of the fields was slated to include affordable housing. No numbers were mentioned.
The Fields at RFK remain on plans for the site made by the Commanders, a commitment echoed by Bowser and welcomed by most attendees. But it isn’t exactly a concession. The Congressional legislation passed at the end of 2024 that granted DC new terms under a 99-year lease requires that 42 acres be maintained as parks and open space for active outdoor recreation. The 27-acre Fields at RFK go a long way to fulfilling that requirement.
Who Will Pay
At the Feb. 13 meeting, activist Adam Eidinger noted that stadiums typically take about $1 billion of public money. “Will you commit to not offering a subsidy?” he asked Bowser. “No,” Bowser said.
One Ward 6 resident thanked the mayor for getting control of the site but then questioned how development would be paid for, particularly opposing public funding for a stadium. “What I’m wondering is, how much taxpayer money do we have to invest in the stadium before we restore circulator bus service, before we are able to have the roads clear of ice and snow on a regular basis, and trash collection?” he asked, before walking away from the mic stand.
Questions
While The Fields at RFK were included on the plan, no other community recreational facilities were sketched in for the campus. Many attendees at the Eastern meeting were concerned with the fate of youth sports at RFK. Ed Luthy, Director of DC Vault, a pole vault training site adjacent to RFK Campus, lined the front row of the auditorium with youth in DC Vault apparel. Luthy brought four of his youth champions with him to the microphone, asking that youth sport like his and the nearby Maloof Skateboard Park not get displaced by development.
Bowser said that her team and representatives with the Deputy Mayor for Economic Development (DMPED) would sit down with the groups. “We want to understand your needs,” she said.
Another resident asked if the mayor would commit that plans for development at RFK would be consistent with District law passed in 2022 requiring that new buildings financed or owned by the DC government adhere to net zero energy standards and not use fossil fuel energy. “We’re not at that level of planning,” Bowser said.
Felder has said this is the first of multiple community meetings as the project gets off the ground. The Councilmember has launched a survey asking Ward 7 residents what they want to see on the site: www.surveymonkey.com/r/RFKsite
DC also has a new website on the RFK development: ourrfk.dc.gov
Commuter Chaos Avoided in Navy Yard –For
Now
The gridlock expected as 16,800 employees returned to their offices at the Washington Navy Yards Monday did not manifest. The Navy was expecting between 8,000 and 10,000 vehicles entering the gates beginning as early as 5 a.m.
“While we can improve throughput, parking remains limited to 4,473 spaces,” Navy officials said in an email sent to District officials. Parking was already nearly at capacity prior to the return to in-person work, the Navy said in a statement.
The return to work en mass is in compliance with a White House directive instructing federal agencies to “to return to work in-person at their respective duty stations on a full-time basis.” President Donald Trump said that employees who did not return to work full time would be terminated, the Hill reported Jan. 29.
District Department of Transportation (DDOT) safety officers were stationed on M Street across from Van Ness Elementary School early in the morning, but had little to do before students began to arrive just before 8 a.m.
Many personnel took advantage of alternate transportation methods as they returned to their offices. A steady stream of personnel could be seen headed east on M Street SE from the metro station on foot, with some frustrated by one tricky secured
entrance gate at Ninth Street. Some parked rideshare scooters nearby and a few entered the gates with their bicycles.
However, a Naval spokesperson said, a rise in traffic could still be coming.
“I feel yesterday is a mixture of factors, which are not representative of a steady state,” said Naval Support Activity Washington Public Affairs Officer Phil Smarz.
The Washington Navy Yard has been figuring out the consequences of a proposed land exchange that would will lead to a reduction in parking. The Navy is planning to trade about 15 acres of what it has termed “underutilized properties” in the southeast corner of the security perimeter for six acres of property outside the security perimeter, where they are planning a new US Navy Museum.
As a result of the trade, Smarz said that Naval Support Activity Washington (NSAW) has been highlighting alternatives for months.
As part of these strategies, the frequency of a pre-existing shuttle bus from L’Enfant Plaza to Washington Navy Yard was increased to every five minutes in December. Personnel were working on an expansion of the contract to include Union Station and the WMATA Anacostia garage at the end of this year. “With the changes, there is a sprint to make that happen by March,” Smarz said.
NSAW has received tremendous help from
A pedestrian heads towards the Sixth at M Street SE entrance gate to the Washington Navy Yard, Feb. 10, 2025. Photo: E.O’Gorek/CCN
the community through a variety of agencies and organizations such as WMATA, goDCgo, DDOT, ConnectingVA, GWRideConnect, Washington Headquarters Services and many others. “Due to multiple months of education efforts, we did have a high number of personnel that leveraged alternative means yesterday,” Smarz said.
But Smarz said the first day was not a true test of the systems. It was the Monday after Super Bowl Sunday, he pointed out. The Tuesday following might have been a better indicator, but the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) issued a snow advisory allowing for telework and staggered dismissal.
Finally, Smarz said many personnel are currently engaged in Citadel Shield-Solid Curtain, an annual two-part force protection training exercise.
“Next week should be a better indicator of a steady state and we will continue to explore options and make adjustments,” the public information officer said.
Councilmember Charles Allen (D), who encouraged residents to avoid the area, credited the close coordination between Navy Yard leadership and DC agencies for solutions to mitigate the worst impacts in warnings from Navy Yard officials.
Transit is key to making the commute work for all moving forward, Allen said. “There’s no math that exists to handle everyone if they come by car and expect to find cheap and easy parking. The only way it works is with transit.” Allen encourages commuters to continue to sue those methods, he said, “as well as to enjoy this great neighborhood and everything it has to offer.”
Eighth St. NE Cannabis
Retailer Withdraws Application
Process Highlights Limits of Tools for Restricting Licenses
Medical marijuana retailer Proper Exotic applied to open at 331 Eighth St. NE in December 2024, but withdrew the application Jan. 29, ANC 6A07 Commissioner Stephen Kolb told the Hill Rag. The business would have been located beside the Hunny Bunny boutique, right on the borderline between ANC 6A07 and 6C03. ANC 6A sent a letter protesting the license Jan. 9.
While Kolb credited the withdrawal to the ANCs protesting of the license, because of the timing, the cause of the withdrawal is not clear. But regardless, the efforts from the two Advisory Neighborhood Commissions (ANCs) impacted highlight the limits to opposing the license applications–and to limiting licenses in a given neighborhood.
Jay Adelstein is commissioner for 6C03. He told the Feb. 12 meeting of ANC 6C that ABRA seemed unsure what was happening with the application in response to his inquiries over the preceding week. “Through some snafu with the agency, [the ABC] thought the application was proceeding,” he said, “but in fact, in their records, it was shown that the application had been withdrawn.”
The business could still reapply in the future.
A large number of people had reached out to ANC 6C with their objections to the license application for that address, said Adelstein. Those objections cited the nearby library, childcare and family music education facilities, among other concerns. Many of those same individuals had also sent objections to the Alcoholic Beverage Cannabis (ABC) Board as well. But, Adelstein noted, “there are certain standing requirements for filing a protest with the appropriate agency. The 20-some people that objected to it did not have standing.”
While five or more District residents working together have standing to object at a hearing for an alcohol license, District law limits objections
to cannabis licenses. Abutting property owners, those who own property across the street or a daycare center within 400 feet can protest a license application; the only other vehicle for protest is the ANC.
There is also no legal tool to limit the concentration of medical marijuana shops in an area, although a tool exists in DC law to create a “moratorium” for alcohol licenses. At their Feb. 13 meeting, ANC 6A sent a letter to DC Council Chair Phil Mendelson, asking that the council consider legislation to provide for moratorium zones for medical cannabis retail licenses.
The letter noted that at one point, there were 20 cannabis retailers, both legal and illegal, along a 12-block stretch of H Street NE. “Our principal goal is to distribute these licenses across the city,” the ANC wrote, “rather than have them concentrated in a few areas of the city,” adding that a distribution of cannabis licenses would also benefit legal licensees since competition would be distributed throughout the city.
Missing: 500-lb Dog Taken Near Virginia
Ave
Dog Park
Artists,
Families Plea for Return of “Scottie” Statue
Jessica was biking down Virginia Avenue in late January, when she turned to look at “Scottie.”
She was in the habit of looking at the bronze statue of a three-foot high terrier, sculpted by her friend Will Fleishell every time she passed by the Virginia Avenue Park (901 Virginia Ave. SE).
But Scottie was gone.
It would have been no small feat. The sculpture, which had been placed just outside the gates of the Virginia Avenue Dog Park nearly two years earlier, weighed about 500 lbs.
All that was left was the outline of the base on the marble plinth. She immediately called Fleishell.
Fleishell is a District native and noted artist. You probably have one of his works in your home right now: he created the portrait of Abraham Lin-
coln on the $5 bill when worked for the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. A noted painter, sculptor and now an instructor at the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop (CHAW), Fleishell says every artwork is a bit like a child to the artist.
And now Scottie is missing.
“I got to tell you, I’ve been so disappointed and upset and depressed about it, and there’s really nothing I can do,” Fleishell said.
“Just give it back. That’s all I care about,” he pleaded.
Memorial
The Scottie is a sort of memorial for Bernadette Bloom, who taught at River Park Nursery School (RPNS) for more than thirty years. She was still teaching when she was diagnosed with cancer. She died in 2016, just after weeks after completing her final academic year.
Families remembered her as a parenting coach and child psychologist as much as a teacher, with many recalling her advice decades after their children finished the two-year program. Marcia Leonard, whose daughter attended River Park in the late 90s, told the Hill Rag in 2016, “Her teaching, her style, her incredible devotion to children, shaped both my parenting and our choice of schools and even our daily expressions.”
One of Bloom’s signature field trips was to
Children climb all over Scottie, the monument to RPNS teacher Bernadette Bloom, “just as she would have wanted.”
Photo: E. Nelson
the Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) Memorial along the Tidal Basin, said Jody Pratt, whose son was in Bloom’snal class.
Bloom would bring her classroom full of two- and three-year-olds to see the statue of the president in his wheelchair. “She would talk about how people move their bodies all di erent ways and some people use wheelchairs,” said Pratt.
JOHNSON LAW GROUP
Bloom would also use the opportunity to discuss the size of bodies. Before the trip, each child would measure out their size on a strip of paper, then bring their “measuring tapes” with them. The class then compared their tapes to the statue of FDR’s little Scottish terrier, Fala. “He was built on a toddler scale,” Pratt said of Fala, “so he was very approachable to preschoolers.”
When Bloom passed, several RPNS families thought that there was no better way to honor the educator than with the Hill’s own Fala statue. It would be placed on the Hill, they envisioned, eye level with preschoolers who would scramble all over it —just as Bloom would have wanted.
Together, they established a fundraiser, raising more than $30,000 to pay for the statue, the plinth and the “foot” to install it.
But despite the group offering the work as a gift to the city, by the time the statue was complete in 2018, they still had no place to put it.
Eventually, in 2020 Pratt signed papers transferring ownership of the work to the District via the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR). DPR found a site for the statue, just outside the Virginia Dog Park, setting installation for May
2023. Pratt was disappointed, believing the location would lead people to believe the statue was dedicated to a dog, rather than a person. But after seven years, she was glad the work would nally see the light.
Three years later, in May 2023, Fleishell went to watch the longawaited installation of the work. But he immediately had concerns. The statue was epoxied — glued, rather than bolted — into place. A few days after installation, he went by to look at the statue. It had slid so far o center that it had almost come o the plinth, he said. The installers came back to correct it, but Fleishell was certain it should be bolted down.
“I was able by myself to shift the dog back into place,” he texted Pratt then, standing next to the shifted statue. “If I can do that with my bad back, then one or two young guys could easily lift that thing up and carry it o .“
Two years later, it appears someone did just that.
Gabrielle Doyle first noted
Sculptor Will Fleishell with his “Scottie” after installation in 2023. Courtesy: W. Fleishell
the statue in spring 2023 as she worked in her community garden allotment at Virginia Avenue Park. When she realized it was missing earlier this year, she began contacting media, hoping to bring attention to the theft. “I just think a piece of joy is gone,” she said.
Pratt says she hopes that someone will return the statue, but she fears the piece, cast in museum-quality bronze silicate, was taken for scrap. “The bronze alone is worth thousands of dollars,” she said.
“It’s just, I can’t even tell you, it’s devastating,” Pratt said. It’s devastating to the artist who worked on it and played custodian to the work for years, she said, to the families who worked to raise funds to make it a reality and finally to the community that has lost a public work of art and joy.
Both Pratt and Doyle say their best case scenario is that the city or another entity would fund another public art piece to replace it.
But Fleishell just wants it back, no questions asked. His plea: just bring Scottie back and leave him in the park, no questions asked.
“You know, it’s an intrinsic value that it’s hard to kind of put a value on,” he said. Then he tries. “It makes a child smile,” the artist says, wistfully, tying the art to Bloom, the teacher who brought joy to so many children.
“That’s what the value is.” https://www.virginiaavedogpark.com/the-scottie u
New & Noteworthy
by Andrew Lightman
H Street Gets a Tank to Tap Brewery
Most imagine breweries tucked in an old barn framed by a sylvan landscape surrounded by picnic tables. Abandoning this bucolic conceit, a Hill resident has chosen to brew on H Street! Henceforth, is the result. No, the comma is not a typo.
Located on the site of the storied H Street Country Club at 1335 H St. NE, Henceforth, due to open this April, is the brainchild of neighbor Michael Spinello. For Spinello, it has been a long journey that started in a fa away locale.
One evening in 2005, serving as infantry grunt on the streets of Iraq, Spinello had an epiphany. After witnessing immense violence and destruction, he dedicated his life to making socially positive contributions. A decade later, the Army dispatched him to the District. He quickly fell in love with his new city.
Shedding his uniform, Spinello settled on the northeast side of Capitol Hill. Then COVID decimated the businesses in the neighborhood he had come to call home. H Street, he decided, needed place for the community to socialize after the isolation of the pandemic. “I stopped
wishing someone else would do it and decided to do it myself,” said Spinello. “We are here for the neighborhood.”
Henceforth, will be a local hangout, where neighbors can connect. There will be comfortable couches, all of which he and his partners have road tested. Patrons can grab a quick beer before a show at the Atlas or simply spend the evening relaxing.
The first floor is configured as a classic pub with seating for 30. Visitors will be tickled to find the fake wooden lockers, a relic of the now closed H Street Country Club, still lining the walls. The décor is mid-century modern with beautifully tiled floors and a gorgeous bar set off by a lighted canopy reminding one of the old classic downtown bus stations of yesteryear. Patrons can order a favorite libation, while watching the brewers at work through a glass wall.
On the second floor, a swanky bar sets off a tap room for approximately 75 patrons, designed as a comfortable hangout with couches and long communal tables. The vibe again is modern. An inti -
mate wine bar, seating 35, completes the equation, fronting the street on the second floor with gorgeous windows framing the bartenders. The roof deck will open later this summer.
No brewery is complete without a talented wizard to mix its alcoholic nectars.
Out in Stanton, Virginia, Spinello discovered master brewer Benjamin Mullett. A former Marine, Mullett had learnt his trade in New England as an apprentice. He honed his craft at Chicago’s storied Siebel Institute. A master of traditional techniques, Mullett has earned gold medals at the Great American Beer Festival (GABF) and the World Beer Cup.
“You have to understand the classic styles and then experiment,” said Mullet. He plans to brew everything from classic German lagers and Czech pilsners to Belgian sours. His particular specialty is the Belgian Dubbel. Gluten free and non-alcoholic brews are part of his plan.
Gutting the Country Club, Spinello and Mullett created a long deep room behind the pub. They reengineered the floor with a drain and tile installed by German artisans. Into this tight space,
Michael Spinello and Benjamin Mullett show off their brewery.
Photo: Andrew Lightman
Henceforth, boasts a ten-barrel brewing system. Photo: Andrew Lightman
The swanky midcentury modern tap room at Henceforth,. Photo: Courtesy Henceforth,
they MacGyvered a 10-barrel system. All of it had to be engineered to fit tightly under the duct work. This stainless steel army of fermenters, brite tanks and brewing vessels, connected by a complicated network of pipes and pumps will produce close to 620 gallons of beer a week, 1,000 barrels a year. All of this powered by a steam boiler weighing over a ton. Perhaps unique in the District, Henceforth, is a tank-to tap-operation. Nine of the 12 taps behind the first and second floor bars are connected directly to the tanks in the brewery and the remaining three to kegs. All the beer produced will be sold and consumed onsite.
Not a fan of the brew? No worries. Henceforth,’s Wine Program Manager Monica Lee, a veteran of Elle and Daikaya, is designing a full wine program for the establishment. While in the kitchen, Chef Walfer Hernandez plans full brunch, lunch and dinner menus. There will be dishes to share, sandwiches or a quick bite and delicious entrees. This writer is particularly looking forward to sampling the rabbit ravioli and braised short ribs. Henceforth, is due to open in April. For more information, visit www. henceforthdc.com.
An Upscale Bodega on Barracks Row
The residential landscape of Capitol Hill has long been punctuated with corner stores, the District’s equivalent of New York City’s storied bodegas. These establishments carried everything from milk to Oreos. Many featured deli counters and a selection of wine and beer. Helmed by friendly owners, they provided both quick access to essentials and served as community hubs.
Unfortunately, time has taken its toll. The famed Rolands along with many of its brethren have shuttered their doors. Bucking this trend, Union Kitchen has now arrived on Barracks Row at 430 Eighth St. SE. This upscale store features a deli counter, an extensive wine and beer section, a range of necessities as well as a curated selection of delicious comestibles, many of which are unique to the establishment.
The Barracks Row location of Union Kitchen is one of six stores in the DMV. They form a channel for the sale of products created by local entrepreneurs fostered by the company’s accelerator. It all begins with food creators pitching to earn a spot in the organization’s central, shared kitchen incubator. There, they receive training, financing and marketing support as they hone their ideas. Union Kitchen then distributes their products. The stores provide the initial channel for these unique products.
Chief Executive and Founder Cullen Gilchrist is the brainchild behind Union Kitchen’s unique accelerator-to-corner-store model. Gilchrist’s sister loved baking, her signature chocolate chip cookies wowing friends and family. But there were overwhelming impediments to scaling up her product. A long-time food industry executive, he understood the challenges of taking a
concept to market. He realized the financial challenge of renting a commercial kitchen during the startup phase of a business. So in 2012, Gilchrist created a 7,300 square foot commercial kitchen for food entrepreneurs to share. His sister was among the first tenants. Since that time, the accelerator has birthed well-known brands such as Compass Coffee and Della Barba Pizza. In 2022, he established a $20 million fund to invest in these businesses. Not bad for a Dartmouth economics and sociology major.
Union Kitchen’s Barracks Row manager Matt Behringer is an example of Union Kitchen’s commitment to the District’s local business community. Behringer began his association as an entrepreneur in the shared kitchen making hot sauces and pickles. However, many residents will remember him as the young boy playing in the front room of the recently shuttered Newman Gallery and Custom Frames on 11th Street. Owner Michelle Newman is Behringer’s mother. He grew up both in the store and also helping his dad Michael, a talented Capitol Hill contractor who still maintains the Tune Inn.
Look for the Made In DC tag when shopping at the new Barracks Row store to purchase the products of Union Kitchen’s entrepreneurs. Behringer suggests trying his favorite, lumpia made by Matet’s Kitchen, a graduate of Union Kitchen’s accelerator.
For more information on Union Kitchen, visit www.unionkitchen.com. u
Union Kitchen’s Manager Matt Behringer at their Barracks Row store. Photo: Andrew Lightman
Union Kitchen is stocked with all sorts of delicious treats. Photo: Courtesy Union Kitchen
THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)
SOLICITATION NO.: DCHA- 19-2025
WASHER AND DRYER MACHINE INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE
The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Washer and Dryer Machine Installation and Maintenance for this solicitation.
SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Sunday, February 16, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506
Respondents will then need to log in and locate this RFP for all related documents. It is the Proposers responsibility to check the Housing Agency Marketplace site regularly to stay current on the documents that are available as this is the primary communication site for this RFP.
To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See the registration link below. https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506
DCHA will provide either a live or pre-recorded demonstration for any vendors unfamiliar with the platform.
PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Friday March 14, 2025 at 12:00 p.m.
Email Jasmin Travis, Procurement Specialist (OAS) at jtravis@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.
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In Memoriam Ruth Ellen Wennersten
by John R. Wennersten
Ruth Ellen Wennersten of 408 A St NE, Washington, DC died in Tamarindo, Costa Rica on Feb. 2, 2025, of heart failure caused by pulmonary embolism. Ruth Ellen was 79 years old.
She is survived by her husband, Jack Wennersten, two sons, Stewart (wife Maria) and Matthew (wife Mala) and two grandchildren, Anthony and Soa (aged 17 and 15), all of Northwest Washington.
Ellen circumnavigated the United States, visiting all 50 states, and every continent except Antarctica, with extended visits to India, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and England. While she did not su er
Ruth Ellen and Jack Wennersten moved to Washington, DC in 2001 after academic careers. Ruth Ellen taught history at the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore and accompanied her husband on extended teaching assignments in Heidelberg, Germany, Naples, Italy, Asmara, Ethiopia, and Cambridge, England. She also taught English as a second language at the Hong Kong School of Ballet and Tokiwa University in Mito, Japan.
Active in civic a airs for over twenty years, Ruth Ellen was a docent at the National Building Museum, a volunteer at Friends of the Southeast Public Library on Capitol Hill, an usher at the Shakespeare Theater, and an avid supporter of the Anacostia Watershed Society.
A keen bridge player, dedicated reader, and world traveler, Ruth
fools lightly, she enjoyed entertaining and discussing politics. She had the love and adoration of her husband and family.
Donations in her memory can be made to the National Building Museum, Development O ce, in Washington DC, 401 F St. NW, 20001.
A Remembrance Service followed by a reception is scheduled March 1, 2025 from 3:00 to 6:00 PM at the Hill Center on Capitol Hill in Washington, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. ◆
Jackie Sink
202.352.5793 jackie.sink@compass.com
Libby Clarke
202.841.1812 libby.clarke@compass.com
Crystal Crittenden
202.246.0931
crystal.crittenden@compass.com
Amanda Briggs
202.487.0601 amandabriggs@compass.com
Improvements at Sherwood Rec Progress, but Slowly
ANC 6A REPORT
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
IAdvisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC 6A) met via Zoom on Feb. 13. Commissioners Paul Spires (6A01, Vice-Chair), Mike Velasquez (6A02), Roberta Shapiro (6A03, treasurer), Amber Gove (6A04, Vice Chair/Parliamentarian), Dave Wethington (6A05, Chair), Je Giertz (6A06, Secretary) and Steven Kolb (6A07) were in attendance.
mprovements are underway at Sherwood Recreation Center (640 Tenth St. NE), Commissioner Shapiro reported, but progress is very slow. In fall 2023, City Manager Kevin Donahue allocated $1.4 million to external capital improvements, Shapiro said. The project started in November this year, and was expected to be completed by early 2025, but there are delays.
Tennis courts and basketball courts have been milled and resurfaced, but the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) says crews will not repaint lines and open either for use until May. Playground equipment repairs scheduled for the week of Feb. 10 were rescheduled for March 13. Those necessitate a week-long closure, Shapiro said, adding that she had hoped that the tennis and basketball courts would be open to provide space for activity during equipment repair. Instead, due to the delayed court reopenings, play space will be limited in March. However, Shapiro said the soccer eld surface has been redone and lines painted.
During a meeting with DPR, Shapiro said the agency indicated the project had a budget of $1.3 million. Shapiro said she is making inquiries about the $100,000 di erence, hoping that funding will be available to do landscaping and some additional improvements.
The ANC took no vote on the matter.
Emergency DDOT Response at C Street and North Carolina Avenue
Commissioner Gove reported that the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is installing some “emergency response” measures at the site where C Street diverges from North Carolina Avenue between 16th and 14th Streets NE.
The improvements come after 66-year-old Hill East resident Ronnie Clark was killed by the driver of an SUV as he stood on the sidewalk along the 1500 block the evening of Christmas Eve 2024. The SUV jumped the curb, apparently riding along the retaining wall for a distance before coming to a stop on top of Clark. The driver ed. Clark was declared dead on the scene. Police have made no arrests.
DDOT is going to re-examine the turning radius at the bulb out where 15th
meets C Street. There will be a sign indicating the presence of the bump out and additional ex posts around the bump out at the north side of the street, which bears tire marks from a vehicle collision. Plans also include a raised sidewalk across C Street at 16th Street NE, as soon as temperatures warm, as well as a speed feedback sign. These things can be done without additional study. Gove said DDOT is planning a larger evaluation study of the C Street corridor in the spring about the C Street corridor improvements.
At the meeting, the ANC unanimously supported a letter on the consent agenda, addressed to DDOT and proposing additional improvements to the area in light of Clark’s death. The ANC proposes that DDOT extend protected bike lanes several blocks, asks for raised crosswalks on the North Carolina sides and for decreased speed limits to begin further east on C Street NE.
Tigo’s to Serve Alcohol
The ANC voted to support an application to the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) for a stipulated license from Tigo’s Peruvian chicken (1322 H Street NE). The restaurant has expanded their menu to include some Mexican food and have applied for a Class C Restaurant license. The license will allow them to sell beer and margaritas on site, for delivery and carry out. Tigo’s has already
signed a Settlement Agreement (SA) with the ANC.
The ANC voted unanimously to support on consent:
• a letter supporting a Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) application from Jonathan Askarinam and Moe Pishvaei. The applicant has acquired four buildings and five alley lots, including the former Biergarten Haus (1355 H St. NE). They are asking for special exceptions from the minimum parking, rear yard and fast-food use requirements in zoning code. The applicant wants to combine five lots, two facing H Street NE and three facing the alley, to convert the buildings to a small food hall.
• a letter of support to the DOB and the BZA for a request for a deadline extension and to expedite requests associated with bringing the Sasha Bruce facility at 1022 Maryland Ave. NE into compliance with updated zoning regulations.
• A request from the Capitol Hill Cluster schools for a letter of support to DDOT for road closures around the May 2025 Capitol Hill Classic. The event is a series of road runs that support three local public schools.
• A le tter to DDOT in support of public art projects at crosswalks around Maury Elementary (1250 Constitution Ave. NE)
• A letter to DDOT asking for traffic calming initiatives on 14th Street near East Capitol Street NE.
• A protest of an alcohol license application from Dumpling Hot Pot (1216 H St. NE) in pursuit of an SA. Dumpling Hot Pot has indicated that they are looking
to serve alcohol with food on customer request.
• A protest of a medical cannabis retailer license application from Dreamy DC (1111 H St. NE) in pursuit of an SA
• a letter to the Mayor, the Chair and Councilmembers of DC Council requesting the city pass legislation creating provision for a moratorium zone for medical cannabis retailer licenses. Such legislation would provide a mechanism to request limits on cannabis license concentration in one neighborhood, a provision that already exists around alcohol licensing.
ANC 6A generally meets online via Zoom on the second Thursday of every month except August. The next meeting takes place at 7 p.m. March 13. See the agenda and other committee meetings as well as information on how to join at anc6a.org u
Neighbors
Concerned
about Support for Acqua Al 2 License
ANC
6B
MEETING
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6B held meeting via Zoom Feb. 11, online only due to snow. 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,
NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION
DAVE WETHINGTON, CHAIR, 6A05@ANC.DC.GOV
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, March 13, 7:00 p.m.**
Transportation & Public Space Committee meeting 3rd Monday, March 17, 7:00 p.m.
Virtual Meeting via Zoom
Economic Development & Zoning Committee meeting 3rd Wednesday, March 19, 7:00 p.m.
Virtual Meeting via Zoom
Community Outreach Committee meeting 4th Monday, March 24, 7:00 p.m.
Virtual meeting via Zoom
Alcohol Beverage and Cannabis Licensing Committee meeting 4th Tuesday, March 25, 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.
Chair); Edward Ryder (6B08, Vice Chair) and Karen Hughes (6B09).
Attorney Daniel Koffman represented Acqua Al 2 (212 Seventh St. SE) in support of an application to the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) for a Class C Restaurant License. The full-service Italian restaurant is returning to the Eastern Market corridor after closing in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic, Hoffman said.
Neighbors have expressed concern about the narrow alley space and about trash and sound mitigation. The applicant seeks an entertainment endorsement to the license, which would allow for live music and dancing, although commissioners were assured that Acqua Al 2 was not trying to achieve a “night club” atmosphere.
There are also concerns about the proposed hours. The restaurant has requested indoor opening hours from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. Sunday to Thursday, and 7 a.m. to 3 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Patio hours requested are 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. on weekends. The sidewalk cafe is expected to be enclosed.
The ANC voted to protest the application pending discussion with the neighbors in pursuit of a Settlement Agreement (SA). The pro -
test will be dropped if an SA is signed by March 3, the day before the protest hearing is scheduled before the District’s Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Board.
Proposed ANC Action on “BOWSER” Act
Several residents raised the issue of a possible District-wide Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) action opposing legislation introduced in Congress.
Introduced by two Republican congressmen, the Bringing Oversight to Washington and Safety to Every Resident (BOWSER) Act would repeal the DC Home Rule Act and restore Congressional authority over the District.
The residents urged the ANC to take a stand on the matter and asked for advice on the best way to support their elected officials. After some discussion, it was agreed that Chair Mareino would contact the city’s other ANCs to inform them of action in opposition to the bill. The residents agreed to draft a resolution as a starting point for submission to the ANCs with a view to having all 47 commissions vote in support. There was no vote on the matter.
Debate on By-Laws Around Resident Members
The commission voted 7-2 with Sroufe and Pastore abstaining in favor of an amendment to ANC bylaws. The change will allow commissioners to appointment resident members to standing committees even when that resident lives outside the SMD of the appointing commissioner, provided the appointee lives in Ward 6.
Proponents of the change to the bylaws said it would increase participation and representation on committees. Sobelsohn said allowing appointments from other single-member districts (SMDs) would enhance geographic diversity of
the whole ANC on committees.
Ryder supported the amendment, saying if he could not find a resident member for a particular committee in his SMD he wanted to be able to draw from the vicinity, noting that someone living across the street could be in a different commissioner’s SMD.
Sroufe countered with a motion that would require resident members to reside within the same SMD as the commissioner appointing them and also to remove a date constraint from 2024 still in the bylaws, but it was voted down. An amendment to Sroufe’s motion from Hughes to ensure resident members would not need to change if the commissioner of an SMD stepped down or otherwise changed was also defeated.
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, March 11. See calendar and get information on how to join at anc6b.org u
J.O. Wilson Construction Concerns at ANC 6C
ANC 6C REPORT
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
ANC 6C met via Webex Wednesday, Feb. 12. On the dais were Jeremy Foxwell (6C01), Karen Wirt (char; 6C02), Jay Adelstein (treasurer; 6C03), Mark Eckenwiler (vice-chair; 6C04), Daniela McInerney (6C05), Andrew Hayes (secretary; 6C06) and Tony Goodman (6C07).
Bus
Concerns at J.O. Wilson
Commissioner Foxwell reported that bus operations between the J.O. Wilson school and the swing space on the Browne Education Campus (810 26th St. NE) are going smoothly. J.O. Wilson Elementary (660 K St. NE) is currently undergoing a modernization and staff and students are being bussed from the school site to Browne.
Aqua Al 2 plans to return to 212 Seventh St. SE, the location the restaurant vacated in 2020. But neighbors want a Settlement Agreement to deal with questions around alley use, noise and trash before the ANC supports the application for a liquor license. Photo: E.O’Gorek/CCN
However, Foxwell said, there are some transportation-related concerns. First, the city has not yet updated parking signs to indicate the drop-off and pick up zones. Foxwell said the city is aware of the signs that need updates but simply has not yet made the changes. Secondly, there is concern about safety for school and staff as they wait to meet the busses. Currently, the school community waits in a plaza in front of the school. However, that space is expected to be fenced in during construction, pushing those waiting to the narrow sidewalk. Foxwell said he has asked DC Public Schools (DCPS) and the construction team if those plans could be changed. His concern was elevated within DCPS but as of the meeting he had no reply, Foxwell said. The ANC took no action on the matter.
Ludlow Taylor After-Hours Construction
The construction team working on the addition at Ludlow-Taylor Elementary (659 G St. NE), Keystone Plus Construction and Ashley McGraw DC, have requested an after-hours construction permit so they can do work on holidays, Commissioner McInerney said. This is in order to assure an on-time completion. The building is expected to be open for the 2025-26 school year. The team had originally requested a 7 a.m. start time. Working with Eckenwiler, McInerney said they came to a compromise—an 8 a.m. start time with additional stipulations around light, noise and idling. McInerney will support the request at a future meeting.
Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6C
Next meeting Wednesday, March 12, 2025. ANC is exploring hosting a hybrid meeting (both in-person and remote attendance) soon. See the full calendar of meetings and instructions to join, as well as hybrid meeting status at anc6c.org.
ANC 6C COMMISSIONERS
ANC 6C usually meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 7pm via Webex video conference. Please check our website for dates.
ANC 6C COMMITTEES
Alcoholic Beverage Licensing First Monday, 7 pm Contact: drew.courtney@gmail.com
Grants Last Thursday, 7 pm Contact: torylord@gmail.com Twitter: @ANC_6C_Grants
Transportation and Public Space First Thursday, 7 pm Contact: anc6c.tps@gmail.com
Planning, Zoning, and Economic Development First Wednesday, 6:30 pm Contact: 6C04@anc.dc.gov
The Commission Voted Unanimously to Support the Following on Consent:
• an application for a stipulated license from Tapori (600 H St. NE) to the Alcohol Beverage Cannabis Administration (ABCA). A team from Daru, Dante Datta and Chef Suresh Sundas, will open Tapori in the Fancy Radish space (600 H St. NE). It will specialize in Indian street food and cocktails. Tapori had applied in late 2024 for a retailers’ class “C” Tavern license, but administrative problems with printing at ABCA delayed the hearing until March. The stipulated license will allow Tapori to open earlier, pending spring approval. Chair Foxwell said the other businesses on H Street are eager to see occupancy in the old Fancy Radish site.
• the renaming of the alley at 300 I St. NE to Gallery Court. Appearing on behalf of Avalon Communities was Jenay Doganay. The applicant is the builder of a series of new townhomes on the alley. The applicant introduced the idea before ANC 6C a few months prior but had not yet spoken with neighbors who currently own rowhomes backing up on the alley. They have subsequently received support.
• a resolution in support of the community efforts to revitalize and improve Stanton Park spearheaded by a group including Commissioners Wirt and Adelstein. This includes support for testimony at DC Council oversight hearings on the Parks and Recreation Committee.
• a notice of intent from the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) outlining plans for safety improvements at Sixth and D Streets NE. the plans call for the modification of a traffic signal, parking adjacent to the intersection, the creation of an ADA compliant crosswalk on the south side and a “no turn on red” sign. Bicycle lanes will be reconfigured to allow for greater safety. The ANC recommended that DDOT proceed with the plan as proposed but asked for clarification around the modification to signal poles and the effect of crosswalk modifications on drainage.
• testimony from Commissioner Eckenwiler at
a DC Council oversight hearing for the Department of Public Works (DPW). Eckenwiler said DPW is not writing citations for chronic violations in resident parking permit (RPP) zones. Ticketing for unauthorized parking in an RPP zone has been written as a “disobeying official sign” rather than violating RPP, Eckenwiler said, important because two RPP violations in a single calendar hear triggers a higher second fine, $35 for the first infraction and $65 for the second.
Grant Applications Wanted
ANC 6C Grants Committee Chair Victoria Lord encouraged applications for ANC Community Grants. The application is online. Projects done in partnership with or by registered 501 (c) (3) organizations that have a significant benefit to the majority of residents in ANC 6C are eligible. The Committee generally awards between $2,500 to $6,000 per project, Lord said, although up to $10,000 has been awarded in exceptional circumstances. Deadlines, forms and information are available online at https://anc6c.org/committees/grants-committee/
ANC 6C generally meets online via Webex at 7 p.m. on the second Wednesday of every month, except August. The next full meeting of ANC 6C is set for March 12. See the dates for committee meetings, the agenda and how to join at anc6c.org. u
Traffic Issues
ANC 6D REPORT
by Andrew Lightman
Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 6D met on Feb. 18 via Zoom. Commissioners Marquell Washington (6DO1), Gottlieb Simon (6D02, chair), Gail Fast (6D03), Andrea Pawley (6D04), Chearie Phelps-El (6D05), Fredrica (Rikki) Kramer (6D07, treasurer) and Rhonda Hamilton (6D08, secretary) were in attendance. Bruce Levine (6D06) was absent.
The commission debated reauthorizing its Transportation Committee. During its last term, the committee consisted of members appointed by each commissioner and the chair appointed by the commission. It was charted with examining issues related to transportation and the management of public space. Commissioners could not agree on whether the committee’s new mandate should include the management of public space. A vote to reauthorize the committee failed.
Secretary Hamilton related her personal experiences with dangerous food delivery drivers. The commission voted to request DC Dept. of
The plaza space at J.O. Wilson Elementary is expected to be fenced in during construction, pushing students who wait for busses safely on the plaza onto the sidewalk. Concept Design: Perkins Eastman, Image: DCPS
Transportation (DDOT), the DC Dept. of For Hire Vehicles (DFHV) and Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen (D) to increase their regulation of food delivery drivers. The letter suggested the agencies require driver’s education and new licensing requirements to increase safety.
The commission debated writing a letter to DDOT criticizing the agency’s Traffic Operations and Parking Plan (TOPP). The TOPP is the District plan that governs traffic management for the stadiums and The Wharf.
The commissioners expressed concerns over several Buzzard Point and Wharf-related issues. First, DDOT has never properly addressed traffic congestion created by events at The Wharf, stated several. Events there can draw as many as 50,000 people, which is larger than a sold-out game at Nationals Stadium. Yet, the TOPP is largely silent on this topic, Treasurer Kramer stated, particularly on the issue of concurrent events. Several commissioner decried the plan’s focus on visitors. The TOPP should focus on the needs of residents, stated Secretary Hamilton. Both she and Kramer demanded a reevaluation of the residential placard system and bus rerouting on game days. Along with Commissioner Fast, they demanded greater parking enforcement. In addition, a request for periodic stakeholder meetings was added to the letter at Fast’s request.
The commission voted to send the letter.
Other Matters
• ANC 6D Alcohol Beverage & Cannabis Committee (ABCA Committee) members Laura Diangelo and A. Chase briefed the commission on the Settlement Agreement negotiated with Brisa, which is located at 2121 First St. SW. On the committee’s recommendation, the commission approved the agreement authorize Treasurer Krammer and Chase to testify.
• The commission resolved to request DC Public School System (DCPS) leadership work in good faith with the Amidon-Bowen Elementary School Swing Space Committee and Councilmember Charles Allen’s office to identify and secure appropriate space in Southwest DC ahead of the Amidon-Bowen Elementary School modernization.
• Metropolitan Police Lieutenant Donahoe
briefed the commission on public safety. In the last 30 days, there were two assaults involving dangerous weapons, six robberies and two shootings, which have been closed, he said. There has been a pickup in robberies involving high-end jackets, he added, as well as an uptick in car thefts related to hop ins.
• The commi ssion voted to write to the DC Dept. of Energy and the Environment (DOEE) about the agency’s failure to provide an updated permit for Vulcan Properties, which operates a concrete plant on Buzzard Point.
• The commission voted to support the Purple Strive 5K on April 26, the Race on Hope on May 4 and the Pride Run on June 1.
• On behalf of the Southwest Neighborhood Foundation, former Commissioner Marjorie Lightman briefed the commission the Public Buildings Reform Board, a GSA board, considering privatizing 260 acres of government land in DC. The board has no community participation, Lightman said. A new chair has been appointed by the new administration.
• The US General Services Administration (GSA) and SW Business Improvement District (SWBID) have agreed to decorate the Jersey barriers that circle the Wilbur Right Building, said Chair Simon. 17 artists applied and the competition is down to three.
• Virginia Rail Express (VRE) is planning to renovate its SW station including better lighting. The construction will require street closings, said Simon.
• Sixth Street in front of Arena Stage will be renamed Zelda Fichandler Way, said Commissioner Fast. Arena is planning a big event.
• 51 Noodles has opened on Fourth Street, said Commissioner Pawley.
• DC Housing Authority (DCHA) is doing a good job especially with senior programing and repairs, said Commissioner Phelps-El.
• The first phase of The Stacks has opened, stated Treasurer Kramer.
ANC 6D meets at 7 p.m. on the second Monday of every month. The next meeting is March. 18. For more information visit www.anc6d.org. u
Kenilworth Swing Space Sparks Construction Concerns
ANC 7D REPORT
by Sarah Payne
Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 7D met Feb. 11 via Zoom. Commissioners Artilie Wright (7D03), Ebony Payne (7D05), Brett Astmann (7D07, treasurer), Brian Alcorn (7D08, chair), Ashley Schapitl (7D09) and Dev Myers (7D10, secretary) were in attendance. Commissioners Mike Davis (7D04, vice chair) and Marc Friend (7D06) were absent. Single Member Districts 7D01 and 7D02 are currently vacant.
Swing space is a facility used to ”temporarily house a school community” while buildings undergo construction to ensure the continuity of education and school programming, according to the agency’s website. DCPS’s Kenilworth Elementary’s swing space is located at 1300 44th St. NE.
The renovations began in 2021, and DCPS expected to complete the project in August 2025. A presentation on the DCPS website detailed remaining work including excavation, foundation installation, roofing, flooring, painting and more.
DCPS has requested permission from the Dept. of Buildings (DOB) to extend working hours on the project, citing concerns about completing the project on schedule. DCPS is seeking a letter of support from the commission for the after-hours work permit. The project team has been in communication with the commission to “share information” and seek support for their application, Chair Alcorn said.
The construction plans for the site, and the impact it would have on nearby residents, have raised eyebrows, said neighbor Denise Issac. In addition to noise concerns from the extended hours, Issac emphasized that contractor parking on nearby residential streets could make egress from the neighborhood difficult, impacting elderly residents.
“They put a whole design together, reached
out to the commission and never spoke to any resident in the neighborhood,” Issac stated.
Alcorn said the commission will serve to “help facilitate and share information, amplify or be part of the discussions,” but noted that these conversations were still in their “preliminary” stages and that the commission is “not set to take any action” on this matter.
Other Matters
DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) Community Engagement Manager Chris Dyer briefed the commission on the upcoming summer camp registration process. All District residents are invited to register children ages three through 13 for this year’s programming. Camps will take place from June through August across four sessions: session one ( June 23 through July 3), session two (July 7 through July 18), session three (July 21 through Aug. 1) and session four (Aug. 4 through Aug. 15). The lottery will remain open through March 3. Visit dpr.dc.gov to learn more about DPR’s year round and summer programming.
The commission voted to:
• request DDOT conduct a Kenilworth road safety study and design audit.
• write to DC government stakeholder agencies to request a feasibility study to install closed circuit TV (CCTV) on the I-295 pedestrian bridges to improve safety.
ANC 7D will meet next on March 14 at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. You can learn more about the commission and register to attend at 7d0761.wixsite.com/ anc7d-1.
Sarah Payne is a reporter for Capital Community News. She can be reached at sarahp@ hillrag.com. u
Final Two Phases of Riverfront PUD Go Residential
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 Feb. 18. On the dias were Commissioners Nic Wilson (8F01), Markita Bryant (8F02), Brian Strege (8F03) and Edward Daniels (6/8F04) and Liam Goodwin (6/8F05).
Developers MRP Realty and Florida Rock applying to the Zoning Commission (ZC) for two modifications of significance to a project approved in 2017 as they finish the final two phases of the Riverfront Planned Unit Development (PUD) project at 25 Potomac Ave. SE. The first two buildings, Dock 79 and The
Maren, opened in 2020. The two new buildings will be built between the Maren and the New Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge (FDMB).
The applicant requires a modification of significance for the change in use as well as approval of the design.
Originally planned as a hotel and office building, the project has been converted to residential and retail. Each will be 130 feet high with 590 residential units total, 59 of them affordable. Framing on the buildings is white, echoing the bridge.
The site plan features a significant amount of open space, including a permanent dog park accessible to all as well as green space internal and accessible to all, a key feature of the community benefits.
The FDMB will sit slightly over the dog park, which due to grading will sit partially over the entrance to the parking garage. There will be about 6,300 square feet of retail. A new riverfront promenade will span the rivers’ edge reaching from Diamond Teague Park east over to the bridge. Amenities spaces will be primarily along the street sides, but a retail pavilion will be part of this riverwalk. The switch to residential is expected to require fewer vehicular trips than the hotel and office use. About 380 parking spots are expected, with 50 allocated to retail, about .6 spots per unit.
Commissioners appreciated the developer’s dedication to open and green space. They also praised their commitment to pets,. The project will provide interim space for continued use as a dog park during construction.
Incident at Courtyard Marriott
First District Commander Colin Hall reported on a shooting at
the Courtyard Marriott Navy Yard (140 L St. SE). Describing it as “unfortunate [and] kind of shocking,” Hall said that the incident took place during a birthday party for a 14-year-old. Some of the juvenile attendees at that party ran into another teenager at the nearby CVS. The two groups had previous acrimonious interactions, Hall said. The birthday party attendees fled back to the hotel, where they were staying with a parent, followed by the other teenager.
That teenager tried to get the party group to come out and fight with them until he was chased away by area security. But he returned later with a gun as the party attendees were in the lobby of the hotel. Unable to gain entry, Hall said, the youth shot the glass in the door, above the door and an interior wall. Hall said the suspect is a resident of the neighborhood. The youth is known to police and there is video of the incident, so officers are just trying to locate the suspect, he said. Hall said that the hotel has a security officer who works 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. and so was not yet on duty. But the secured entrance to the lobby did work, Hall said, noting that the incident took place on a busy Saturday night and saying the fobenabled entry probably prevented more casualties. In response to a question from Commissioner Bryant, Hall said the youth division will follow up with Child Family Services and the school, including conflict resolution services. Commissioners suggested that MPD and the ANC meet with Marriott management, which Hall welcomed, suggesting the BID as another attendee.
Other Public Safety Updates
Commander Hall said there was a
murder in a sixth-floor unit of the Park Riverside (1011 First St. SE). The case was closed by arrest. It was a domestic incident in which an argument between a father and son escalated to the point where the son shot and killed his father.
Captain Adam Crist continued the public safety report by noting a second homicide on the 900 block of M Street SE in front of Domino’s Pizza. Crist said that there are good images of suspects from surveillance.
Crist also warned attendees that robberies of high-end jackets by brands such as Canada Goose and Moose Knuckles re trending citywide. He encouraged folks to some way tag or label the items to make it easier to identify.
Office of Tenant Advocate Relocates
Nicole McEntee appeared on behalf of the Office of Tenant Advocate (OTA), an independent agency of the DC Government that provides tenants with assistance in dealing with landlords, helping them to form tenant associations. McEntee encouraged tenants in Navy Yard that are having issues with management or who have questions about their rights or the legality of various actions to contact OTA. The office relocated at the end of
December to 899 North Capitol St. NE, a block north of Union Station.
The ANC voted to:
Send a letter supporting the National Petal Palooza Festival, unanimously except for Daniels abstaining for professional reasons. The festival is scheduled to take place at Yards and Diamond Teague Park on Saturday, April 5 from 1 to 9 p.m. with fireworks to conclude.
Send a letter to area residential property managers, the Capitol BID and MPD asking them to work together to deal with an escalating problem with pet waste in public space. Commissioners will outreach to buildings and get a sense of maintenance and enforcement, working to identify problem spaces and ways to address concerns.
ANC 8F generally meets on the third Tuesday of the month with the exception of August. The next meeting is scheduled for March 25. See the full calendar of meetings and instructions to join at anc8f.org. u
Concept design showing the final two buildings to be constructed as part of the Riverfront PUD at 25 Potomac Ave. SE. The buildings will be residential, rather than for hotel and office uses. Image: MRP Realty/ Florida Rock, Screenshot: ANC 8F/Zoom
Bulletin Board
This Season’s Fireworks at Nats Park
Lighting up the night sky, fireworks return to the ballpark with three post-game Friday Night Fireworks on April 19, May 3 and Sept. 13 and a special Freedom Fireworks show presented by Budweiser to celebrate the Fourth of July on July 3. mlb.com/nationals.
Tax Prep at SW Library
On Mondays through April 14, 1 to 5 p.m., tax preparation services will be provided for DC and MD residents at the Southwest Library, 900 Wesley Pl. SW. To make an appointment, patrons can come during regular tax assistance hours. At that time, you will get a taxpayer information packet (TIP) that
National Gallery Nights Return
The popular National Gallery Nights free after-hours program returns to the National Gallery of Art East Building this spring. Visitors are invited to join them on the second Thursday of March, April, and May (March 13, April 10, and May 6) from 6 to 9 p.m. Due to the event’s popularity, they offer registration through a lottery system. The lottery opens on Monday at 10 a.m. and closes on Thursday at noon the week before each event. Lottery entrants will be notified on Friday. Additionally, limited walk-up passes are available at the East Building entrance before each event. They will be distributed first come, first served starting at 5:30 p.m. Light fare, gelato, and beverages—including beer, wine, and specialty cocktails—will be available for purchase throughout the East Building, in the Cascade Café, Terrace Café, and at the Espresso & Gelato Bar. nga.gov.
contains the intake and interview form to be filled out, as well as a list of documents needed to prepare returns. Be sure to bring all TY2023 tax documents and completed intake forms to your appointment. Appointments are strongly encouraged. For questions, call 202656-0442 and leave a message or email 20051018@aarpfoundation.org. A tax preparer will reply.
Report Pollution of the Anacostia River
Have you noticed pollution in or around the Anacostia? Report the pollution you see and Anacostia Riverkeeper (ARK) will work to investigate the issue and hold accountable those who are responsible. Pollution comes in many forms
Capital Art Book Fair at Eastern Market
The Capital Art Book Fair is an annual event that brings together publishers, artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts to showcase and celebrate the world of art books. It serves as a platform for artists, publishers, and independent bookmakers to exhibit and sell art-related publications, which can include artist monographs, exhibition catalogs, zines, photography books, graphic novels, and other forms of printed material which double as fine art. The 2025 Capital Art Book Fair is at Eastern Market’s North Hall, 225 Seventh St. SE, on April 6, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission. artbookfair.eastcityart.com.
Capital Art Book Fair at Eastern Market’s North Hall. Photo: Genie Hutinet for East City Art.
Visitors dance in East Building during National Gallery Nights.
DCHFA, Your Homeownership Resource in
DCHFA,
DC Open Doors
DC Open Doors
DC Open Doors
DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership inthe city. is programo ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust
DC Open Doors 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 inthe city. is programo ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust homebuyer or a D C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia
HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) rst-time home buyer program.
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
DC4ME
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.
COVID-19
DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is o ered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.
DC MAP COVID-19 provides nancial assistance to those a ected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quali ed borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage for up to six months.
COVID-19
DC MAP COVID-19 provides nancial assistance to those a ected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quali ed borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage for up to six months.
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.
CHRS Preservation Café
On Tuesday, March 4, 6:30 pm., the Capitol Hill Restoration Society presents a free virtual Preservation Café “50 Years of Historic Preservation and Restoration on Capitol Hill.” The cafe features architect Judith Capen, founder and principal, with husband Robert Weinstein, of the firm Architrave PC, one of the capital’s leading architectural firms. She and the Architrave team provide expertise for owners dealing with their vintage homes. Capen led the team that wrote the series of Capitol Hill Historic District Guidelines. CHRS Preservation Cafés are free to both CHRS members and non-members. View the guidelines and sign up for this Preservation Café at chrs.org.
and looks different from case to case such as excessive sediment in the water, especially on dryweather days; sewage overflows or a sewage smell; dead fish; illegal dumping; abnormal or discolored water; and excessive flooding. When possible, include photos of what you see to help ARK and investigators build a clearer picture of what caused the pollution. anacostiariverkeeper.org/ programs/report-pollution.
Watch the Blooms Live on #BLOOMCAM
#BloomCam, brought to you by the Trust for the National Mall, in partnership with the National Park Service and Earthcam, is a 24/7, live, real-time view of the cherry trees lining the Tidal Basin, one of the most popular and iconic sites in Washington, DC. Positioned on the Salamander Washington DC rooftop, #BloomCam offers year-round views of the cherry trees and their seasonal changes to viewers worldwide. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/bloom-watch.
Feeder’s
Advisory: That Noodle Life (A book club for those who love food)
Do you love browsing through cookbooks and trying new recipes? This month’s cookbook selection is The Noodle Life; Soulful, Savory, Spicy, Slurpy by Mike Le & Stephanie Le. It features 75 fun, easy, comforting recipes that go way beyond spaghetti and ramen. Inspired by the noodle-crazed cuisines of Asia, Italy, and the American melting pot, these recipes dish up high-impact, slurpable flavor and minimal fuss. This month the Feeder’s Advisory Book Club meets on Thursday, March 20, 6:30 to 8 p.m. at NE Library, 330 Seventh St. NE. To reserve a copy of the book, contact shawn.mcdermott@dc.gov. dclibrary.org.
Trinidad
(organic) Farmers Market
Trinidad Farmers Market is open Sundays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., (rain or shine). They are nestled in the southern border of the Trinidad neighborhood at 1299 Neal St. NE. All the foods that their producers sell are organic, although they may not be certified organic in some instances because obtaining a certification can be a financial barrier for some small farmers. trinidadfarmersmarket.net.
Annual DC Central Kitchen Café Day
On Thursday, March 13, with support from official partner Monumental Sports & Entertainment, DC Central Kitchen invites the DC community to join them as they celebrates the third annual DC Central Kitchen Cafe Day. This city-wide event marks six years of this innovative, job-training cafe model in DC. During the day,
all three DC Central Kitchen Cafe locations will be offering $1 any size drip coffee, $2 strawberry lemonades, as well as free samples from DCCK’s kitchen and several partnering social enterprises from across the region. Café Day locations are Marianne’s by DC Central Kitchen, 901 G St. NW, opens at 9:30 a.m.; DCCK Cafe at the Klein Center, 2121 First St. NW, opens at 7:30 p.m.; DCCK Cafe at THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE, East Building, opens at 8 a.m. dccentralkitchen.org.
Sensory-Friendly Evening USBG: Orchids
On Saturday, March 29, 5:30 to 8 p.m., join the US Botanic Garden Visitor Services Team and volunteers outside of pub-
Capitol Hill Village: The Stars Will be Out
It will be A Starry, Starry Night on March 15 at St. Mark’s Church when the annual Capitol Hill Village Gala will celebrate its stars— members, volunteers, and others in the community who are helping older adults stay healthy, engaged, and independent. Their online auction began on March 1 with an array of vacation homes and gift certificates for businesses and services. Also, the Gala is the first chance to sign up for Salon Events—small-group gatherings with prominent speakers. For over 15 years, CHV has been a critical lifeline for older adults, and the Gala is an important source of funding for programs and services that enrich lives and strengthen our community. Gala Tickets are $175, and sponsorships are available starting at $600, which includes two tickets. Buy tickets and bid on auction items at one.bidpal.net/chvgala/ticketing.
FONA’s Annual Native Plant Symposium and Sale
Join the US National Arboretum on Saturday, March 29 for a day of engaging presentations about native plants, pollinators, and ecosystems during the 38th Annual Lahr Native Plant Symposium. Learn about soil health management, destructive pests, forest restoration, current research on seed conservation, and the best native trees for your garden. The Lahr Native Plant Symposium is perfect for both beginners and experienced home gardeners. The symposium features seven expert speakers and will take place in the Arboretum’s Visitor Center Auditorium. Also, on Saturday, March 29, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., get a head start on spring and shop one of the earliest plant sales in the area, held at the National Arboretum. This annual native plant sale includes five vendors selling spring ephemerals and many other choices of perennials and woody plants. The sale is on Meadow Road, adjacent to the National Herb Garden. Register at fona.org.
lic hours for a sensory-friendly evening to enjoy the “Orchids: Masters of Deception” exhibit. See thousands of orchids on display and uncover some of the unique ways these plants have adapted to deceive pollinators. Interactive activities are offered at this program. Free; registration required. usbg.gov/learn/programs-and-events.
AARP Women’s History Month Luncheon Meeting
On Wednesday, March 19 at noon, all are invited to attend the AARP Women’s History Month luncheon featuring DC Councilmember Anita Bonds at the River Park Mutual Homes Charles Goodman Common Room, 1311 Delaware Ave. SW. Lunch is $5. Contact Betty Jean Tolbert Jones, bettyjeantolbertjones@yahoo.com or 202-554-0901 with questions.
Power of Giving 2025 Symposium: “Women in Philanthropy”
On March 12, 1 to 4 p.m., the American History Museum’s Philanthropy Initiative brings historic perspectives to contemporary discussions about the role of women in shaping and reshaping the nation through various forms of giving. The “Women in Philanthropy” program looks at how from the early days of the Republic, women have come together to mobilize resources, support communities and advance causes. The program will open with a conversation between businesswoman and philanthropist Adrienne Arsht and Smithsonian Regent Emeritus David M. Rubenstein. Other panels will bring together historians, including the museum’s curator of philanthropy, Amanda Moniz. Free. Registration is at bit.ly/4gt9jt1.
NPS Seeks Public Comment on Future of the Tidal Basin
The Tidal Basin, created in the 19th century, is both an engineering feat and a key feature of West Potomac Park. Each year, an estimated 36 million visitors from around the world visit the National Mall to see the Tidal Basin and its surrounding monuments and memorials. The National Park Service is developing a Concept Plan and Environmental Assessment to guide the long-term management of the Tidal Basin, focusing on transportation, conservation, tree preservation, protection of natural and cultural resources, visitor experience, recreation, infrastructure, security, and more. Visit the project website at parkplanning.nps.gov/tidalbasinDCP to learn more and share your ideas through March 19.
The Abraham Lincoln Institute Symposium at Ford’s
The Abraham Lincoln Institute and Ford’s Theatre Society present a free symposium focused on the life, career and legacy of President Abraham Lincoln at Ford’s Theatre on Saturday, March 22, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Symposium speakers are Hilary Green, “Unforgettable Sacrifice: How Black Communities Remembered the Civil War”; Jon Grinspan, “Wide Awake: The Forgotten Force that Elected Lincoln and Spurred the Civil War”; Manisha Sinha, “The Rise and Fall of the Second American Republic, 1860-1920”; Harold Holzer, “Brought Forth on This Continent: Abraham Lincoln and American Immigration”; Michael Vorenberg, “Lincoln’s Peace: The Struggle to End the Civil War”; and Allen Guelzo, “Our Ancient Faith: Lincoln, Democracy, and the American Experiment”. Book signings will take place in the Ford’s Theatre lobby throughout the day. Free general admission tickets are required at my.fords.org/11592. fords.org.
Friends of the National Arboretum Flowering 5k
On Sunday, March 23, 8:30 a.m., enjoy spring at the US National Arboretum during Friends of the National Arboretum’s Flowering 5K. This run or walk takes you past garden collections brightly colored with spring flowers, over tree-lined rolling hills, and along streams winding their way to the Anacostia River. Enjoy cherry blossoms, magnolias, and so much more. This race is not only scenic but also safe and secure. All roads are closed to cars during this race so you can safely enjoy running or walking through this 451-acre urban green space. Registration pricing is $40 to $55. Kids under 13 are free. Tshirts are available while supplies last. fona.org/events_programs.
The Carlos Chavez Choir: Call for Male Voices
The Carlos Chavez Choir is turning one year after its debut at the Mexican Cultural Institute, and they are full steam ahead with another season of musical learning. If interested, contact info.corocarloschavez@gmail.com for all the information.
Annual Diversity Employment Day Career Fair
The DC area 25th Annual Diversity Employment Day Career Fair is on Wednesday, April 2, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Doubletree Hilton—Crystal City, 300 Army Navy Dr., Arlington, VA. Register and schedule in-person
courtesy FONA.org
Botanic Garden Production Facility Open House
On Saturday, March 8, 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., come see the USBG Production Facility and the many thousands of plants the USBG grows there. In addition to foliage and nursery crops, you’ll see USBG collection plants not currently on display, including orchids, medicinal plants, carnivorous plants, and rare and endangered species. Register for one of the open house times to meet the gardeners, ask questions, and wander through this working wonderland of plants. Pre-registration is required at usbg.swoogo.com/ PFOH-2025.
meetings with recruiters at citycareerfair.com/dc or register by email when you send your resume to Fasttrack@ citycareerfair.com.
DC Creative Affairs Office Counseling Services
Care for Creatives is a partnership between the DC Creative Affairs Office (creativeaffairsdc.com/partnerships) and the George Washington University, Community Counseling Services Center (CCSC) to provide paywhat-you-can mental health services to area creatives. Creatives who reach out to the CCSC will be matched with a clinical intern to support them through a solution-oriented therapy approach. All services are confidential and provided via tele-health and in person near the Foggy Bottom metro stop. To receive care, visit communitycounseling.gsehd.gwu.edu/services/care-for-creatives.
Art All Night 2025 Dates Announced
Mayor Bowser and the Department of Small and Local Business Development have announced the dates for Art All Night 2025, a citywide celebration of local artists and businesses.
This year’s Art All Night takes place
on Saturday, Sept. 12 and Sunday, Sept. 13, bringing vibrant art, live performances, and community spirit to neighborhoods across all eight wards. First introduced as Art All Night: Nuit Blanche DC by Shaw Main Streets in 2011, this event has grown into a two-day celebration. Last year’s event attracted more than 140,000 visitors, including over 12,000 attendees at the MLK Library block party. dcartallnight.org.
Art Enables Free Saturday Workshops
Art Enables is an Art Gallery and Vocational Arts program dedicated to creating opportunities for artists with disabilities to make, market, and earn income from their original and compelling artwork. In addition to earning income from art sales, artists build the skills, relationships, and experience necessary for a successful career in the arts. Monthly, on select Saturdays, drop-by Art Enables, 2204 Rhode Island Ave. NE, for a free, familyfriendly art workshop any time between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. All materials and refreshments provided. Upcoming Saturday Workshops are March 15, April 12, May 17 and June 28. art-enables.org
Anacostia River Festival (save the date)
The 2025 Anacostia River Festival is on Saturday, May 17, from 1 to 6 p.m. at Anacostia Park, 1900 Anacostia Dr. SE.
Do You Have a Notice for the Bulletin Board? The Hill Rag Bulletin Board includes event notices, volunteer opportunities and other community news. If you have a notice, send it to bulletinboard@ hillrag.com. u
DINING
Theater Night
A curated review of theater in the DMV
by Matthew McClure
It’s a foregone conclusion that William Shakespeare’s work is the be-all and end-all. If all the world’s a stage, then you can never have too much of a good thing and the English playwright’s words are a dish fit for the Gods and a tower of strength in a brave new world.
The above sentence is made up almost entirely of phrases coined by Shakespeare which are still in use today. This month’s column is a nod to the enduring legacy of Shakespeare through contemporary works that draw on his oeuvre. We’ve also included another re-imagining of classic material in our Special Mention section.
Catch before Closing Kunene and the King, Shakespeare Theatre Company Showing thru March 23 www.shakespearetheatre.org
With South Africans seemingly making news headlines for all the wrong reasons recently, what a joy it is to welcome the legendary South African activist, playwright, director and actor Dr. John Kani to American shores for the US debut of his critically acclaimed play Kunene and the King.
Sold out to audiences in England (where it first opened in 2019 at The Royal Shakespeare Company) and South Africa, this version of Kani’s play is brought to the Shakespeare Theatre Company stage in association with Octopus Theatricals, with Ruben Santiago-Hudson in the director’s seat.
Written six years ago as a rumination on South Africa’s 25th anniversary of democracy post-Apartheid, Kani’s play is a touchingly funny story of two South Africans from radically different worlds bonding unexpectedly through Shakespeare’s King Lear and the looming specter of death. “I wanted to ask ‘What have we learned, how far have we come in our attempt to create a just, democratic, non-sexist, nonracial society?’ This is my contribution to opening that discussion. Are we better now than we were 30 years ago?” Kani states. Edward Gero plays Jack Morris, an ageing white actor who’s landed the role of a lifetime: Playing King Lear in Shakespeare’s eponymous 17th Century work. Morris also has terminal liver cancer, which precipitates inviting “sister” Lunga Kunene (Kani) into his house as an in-home caregiver.
Kunene and the King, like much of Dr. Kani’s work, is both reflexive and reflective. As a singular contributor to Protest Theater –both through his writing and performances – Kani is no stranger to the racism and brutality of South Africa’s Apartheid regime: Returning home in 1975 after a performance in Athol Fugard’s Sizwe Banzi is Dead, Kani was horrifically attacked by South African police, losing his left eye as a result. Kani’s brother, Welile, died of liver cancer the same year that Kunene and the
King was performed in 2019, with Sir Antony Sher – who passed away only three years later from the same disease —playing Jack. These myriad influences find expression in the play, along with a deep and abiding passion for Shakespeare inculcated from an early age through an isiKhosa translation of King Lear that Kani was taught in high school in 1959. “There’s an old man who’s trying to make sense of his existence who, before he walks past the screen of life, asks if he has left any footprint that can help another traveler reach his destination,” says Kani about the protagonist in Shakespeare’s play, who falls victim to the scheming and machinations of his family and his own hubris. “The choice of King Lear is to discuss cultural differences and cultural points of view. Jack Morris thinks it’s high class and learned for a Black person (Lunga Kunene) to know about Shakespeare, but in return Lunga teaches Jack about humanity.”
Throughout the play, Kunene and Morris challenge each other’s preconceptions by touching on seemingly innocuous idiosyncrasies that will be familiar to South Africans in the audience. Kunene drinks tea from the household’s fine china while serving Morris a beverage in an old enamel mug – a household item stereotypically associated with “the help.” Morris discovers Kunene’s home address in Soweto and visits him unannounced towards the end of the play, a transgressive act in a country still plagued by a legacy of spatial Apartheid that cleaved communities through racialized segregation. “The play wouldn’t work
Photo: John Kani and Edward Gero in Kunene in the King at Shakespeare Theatre Company. Photo: Teresa Castracane.
if Jack was an open racist. He has to make a mistake every time he opens his mouth.” Dr. Kani says as he explains how Morris’s latent racism surfaces when he offers Kunene a servant’s room in the back of his property.
Like all great theater, Kani’s play has found renewed significance within the current global zeitgeist. At the age of 82, Kani is troubled by a world that’s increasingly polarized. He hopes that Kunene and the King will offer a soothing dose of hope, humility and humor at a time when there are many wounds that need salving. “I’m watching what’s going on around the world. There’s a strange thing that’s happening. We have to take responsibility for our actions and our silence. I know that humanity will be the last victor. We’re going to find each other, see each other, understand and talk to each other. It’s the only way to a better community.”
On Right Now
A Room in the Castle, Folger Theatre Showing March 4 – April 6 www.folger.edu
My love affair with William Shakespeare’s Ophelia began as a young boy, watching a flamehaired Kate Winslet swan around Elsinore Castle in Kenneth Branagh’s epic four-hour film adaptation of Hamlet, a tragic tale of madness, unrequited love and grasping power. Even then, I knew there had to be more to this character, and it turns out I was right.
There’s no shortage of alternative universes inhabited by Polonius’s daughter and Prince Hamlet’s fleeting love interest. Jürgen Vsych’s Ophelia Learns to Swim, Ed Gass-Donnelly’s Dying Like Ophelia and Claire McCarthy’s Ophelia are all creative tributes to one of only two women (the other is Queen Gertrude) to grace the pages of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Now, thanks to Lauren Gunderson, there’s another. Gunderson, touted by American Theatre Magazine as the Most Produced Living Playwright, is no stranger to the Bard’s plays. She’s used Shakespeare as source material for her works The Taming and Toil and Trouble and this month she’ll bring Ophelia, Queen Gertrude and Ophelia’s handmaid Anna to the Folger Theatre stage in collaboration with the Cincinnati Theatre Company in A Room in the Castle. The title is a wink to Virginia Woolf’s A Room of One’s Own (a meditation on feminine expression, liberty and creativity in a world dominated by patriarchy) which should give you a hint of what’s to come. With director Kaja Dunn at the helm and Sabrina Lynne Sawyer as Ophelia, Oneika Phillips as Queen Gertrude and Burgess Byrd as Anna, the ‘Women of Hamlet’ are given full, unapologetic and vivacious life in Gunderson’s augmentation of this classic story.
If you love music, there’s plenty of soulrousing melodies on offer, Gunderson says. “Since Ophelia is often singing in Shakespeare’s Hamlet, it felt like a natural extension to make her into a little Taylor Swift in her room trying to come up with a love song.” Ophelia’s inspirational melodies are a rich counterpoint to Hamlet’s madness, explains Gunderson, and Queen Gertrude and Anna are in on the act. “Ophelia is the unsung song. Her song is a confession but then becomes a performance and a generative inspiration to keep going. It felt very resonant with what Shakespeare gave us and who this character is, like a handshake between Shakespeare’s Ham-
let and the extension and augmentation that this”. Through toe-tapping lyrics, the audience gets to travel with Ophelia on an alternative journey that doesn’t end in a watery grave as per Shakespeare’s original penning.
With the Folger Shakespeare Library and Theatre mere steps away from a nexus of power now largely dominated by men, there’s a beautiful synchronicity to A Room in the Castle being given space to speak its message to DMV audiences at this moment. Don’t miss it.
Special Mention
Poppea, IN Series
Showing March 14 – March 30 www.inseries.org
Poppea, the last and possibly greatest operatic work by the Italian composer Claudio Monteverdi, comes roaring back to life through a contemporary infusion of Southern Indian Bharatanatyam dance in the last of IN Series’ Monteverdi trilogy. Indian-Canadian choreographer Hari Krishnan, stage and musical director Timothy Nelson and a host of uber talented vocal artists – accompanied by IN Series’ INnovatio Orchestra – will fire up stages at Dupont Underground, St. Mark’s Capitol Hill and Baltimore Theatre Project commencing on the first night of the Hindu Festival of Holi and running till the end of March. u
Photo: Sabrina Lynne Sawyer, Burgess Byrd and Oneika Phillips in A Room in the Castle at the Folger. Photo: Mikki Schaffner.
Image: Show art for Poppea by PLUNKERT.
Cooking with Ruta’s Chef
Ukrainian Fare with a Side of Culinary Diplomacy
by Annette Nielsen
Bringing people together around the table for celebration and conversation is welcome at home or in a restaurant. However sometimes the dining experience provides the opportunity to learn more about the culture and cuisine – in essence, culinary diplomacy.
Throughout the District we’re fortunate to have restaurants with a wide range of cuisines — partly reflective of our population brought here by work at embassies, academic institutions attracting students from around the globe or the lure of our museums and cultural venues. On Capitol Hill, we see a microcosm of this diverse representation in restaurants from Asian to Middle Eastern, Italian to French and more recently Ukraini-
an, in Ruta near Eastern Market.
It was only a few years ago that Ruslan Falkov was working as the Chief of Staff for the Ukrainian Embassy in town and before that, serving as the special assistant to the Ukrainian President. His dedication to starting a Ukrainian restaurant here in the District is in line with seeing the Ukrainian culture amplified and preserved.
“The work we do at a restaurant such as Ruta is culinary diplomacy. The staff here, 90 percent of whom are Ukrainian or Ukrainian-American, are truly Ukrainian ambassadors – they can share stories, art, language and cuisine with the community here,” says Falkov.
Authentic Ingredients and Culture
The cuisine is prepared with attention to detail, especially when deciding what goes on the menu – always with an emphasis on authentic ingredients.
Ruta’s executive chef, Mykola Yudin came to Ruta as it launched on Capitol Hill in 2023 and six months later took over as executive chef. Over the years he had honed his craft as a prominent chef in several restaurants across Europe and the Ukraine, and says, “We stay true to the ingredients in the original recipes – things like sunflower oil that we use in so much of our cooking is shipped from the Ukraine, and we are always looking for farmers and producers here who might have ingredients like sour cherries, something we use in many of our recipes.”
They’ve also supported the work of talented Ukrainian artists – seen on the dining room walls. The colorful and decorative folk-painting style, petrykivka, can also be found on the salt and pepper shakers. And recently, Ukrainian talents extended to the music, with a pop-up performance in Ruta’s dining room by the Slavic Chorale.
a local bookstore, Chef Yudin and Falkov are working on one that is representative of a culture and people, as well as delicious renditions of classics, some evolved to include their menu items like the “Chef’s Varenyky” –a nod to the DMV in this dish where dumplings are stuffed with crabmeat or using potato pancakes as a base for eggs benedict.
And while you probably won’t find a huge selection of
of
And it was through the efforts of many Ukrainian chefs to include Ukrainian borscht as part of the initiative of the Member States of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, consistent with UNESCO’s support of populations affected by war. Now, Falkov and Yudin are working on getting Holubtsi recognized on the UNESCO list. (Holub translates to dove or a re-
Ukrainian cookbooks on the shelf
Executive Chef Mykola Yudin (from Donetsk, Ukraine) and Ruslan Falkov, Co-Founder and CEO at the Capitol Hill Ruta Restaurant located near Eastern Market. Photo: Annette Nielsen
Chef Yudin sets up the Holubtsi to poach in an aromatic mushroom broth with bay leaves and allspice. Photo: Annette Nielsen
ection of peace). “It’s a dish that’s both beautiful and approachable for a home cook to prepare,” says Falkov.
When asked what Ruta means, Falkov says it’s a yellow ower that, according to Ukranian legend, turns bright red on the Slavic summer solstice celebration, Ivana Kuala, in early July – and can be interpreted as an expression of love.
When I met with Chef Yudin, it was at the height of a very busy week with many international (including Ukrainian) delegations in town,
some related to Prayer Week where they were hosting events. Below are recipes for a couple of delicious and iconic Ukrainian o erings.
Says Chef Yudin, “Smachnoho (enjoy your meal!)”
Ruta is located at 327 7th St .SE, 202492-7986, www.rutadc.us/ruta-dc.
Annette Nielsen, a writer and food systems advisor, returned to Capitol Hill from New York where she served as the executive director of the Hunter College NYC Food Policy Center.
Ingredients:
Approximately a little more than a pound (or two cups) farmer’s cheese (tvorog in Ukrainian)
¼ cup semolina
1/3 cup all-purpose our (for dusting and shaping)
¼ cup sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 to ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Accompaniments: Fresh berries, fruit jam, sour cream
(continued next page) Ruta’s Syrnyky (adapted) Farmer’s Cheese Pancakes Makes 10-12 pancakes (4 servings)
FROM: 11AM-2AM M-Th 10AM-2AM Sat & Sun
brunch every Saturday and Sunday. 10AM-3PM
Syrnyky, the Ukraininan cheese pancake prepared with house-made Tvorog.
Photo: Annette Nielsen
Annette Nielsen learning how to shape the Syrnyky with guidance from Chef Yudin. Photo: Ruslan Falkov
Dough Preparation:
1. Mix farmer’s cheese, semolina, sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium-sized bowl.
2. Stir will until a smooth and uniform consistency is achieved.
3. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or preferably overnight).
Shape Syrnyky:
1. Once the dough has rested, pinch o a couple of tablespoons. Roll dough in your hands to form ball-shaped dough.
2. Place the balls on a lightly- oured surface.
3. Flatten gently and shape into round patties about ½-inch thick using a spatula or knife to guide the shape.
Cook and Serve:
1. Heat medium fry pan over low heat and add a small amount (tablespoon or two) of vegetable oil.
2. Fry the syrnyky for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp on the edges.
3. Serve with fresh berries, jam and most importantly, sour cream.
ARTS&DINING
Ruta’s Mushroom Holubtsi (adapted)
Mushroom-stu ed Cabbage with Sour Cream Makes 10 rolls (5 servings)
Ingredients:
One large head of cabbage
2 ¼ lbs white button mushrooms
1 pound shiitake mushrooms
½ pound shimeji (white beech) mushrooms
1 cup cooked jasmine rice
1-2 carrots
1 small onion
1 ½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 egg
½ cup plus 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Whole Allspice
2 Bay Leaves
Chopped parsley for garnish Sour cream (approximately ¾ cup for serving)
Preparation of Cabbage:
1. Bring a large stockpot of water with a couple of teaspoons of salt to a boil.
2. Remove any damaged outer leaves from the head of cabbage (any that are wilted or have large tears).
3. Carefully, cut out the cabbage core.
4. Submerge the whole cabbage head in boiling water let cook for approximately 7 to 10 minutes, until the leaves become pliable but not fully cooked (about 6070% cooked).
5. Carefully remove the cabbage from the water and separate the leaves.
6. Let the leaves cool and trim the thick base of each leaf to make them easier to roll.
Preparation of Filling:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F
2. If you don’t already have a cup of cooked rice, prepare your rice to package instructions.
3. Slice the button and shiitake mushrooms and separate the shimeji mushrooms from each other. Mix all mushrooms to-
The Ruta team on the Eastern Market location’s patio. Photo: Courtesy of Ruta.
gether in a bowl, adding vegetable oil, 1 teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper.
4. Spread mushrooms on a baking sheet and roast for approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
5. Place mushrooms in a sieve, reserving any liquid. Chop the mushrooms into ¼-inch pieces.
6. Peel and dice the onion into 1⁄4-inch pieces. Grate the carrot (use a coarse grater).
7. Sauté the onion and grated carrot in a tablespoon or two of vegetable oil until the vegetables are soft and lightly golden.
8. In a large bowl, combine the chopped mushrooms, sautéed onions and carrots, cooked rice, and the egg. Add ½ teaspoon salt, garlic powder and a couple of dashes of ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
Assembly, Baking and Serving:
1. Lay a cabbage leaf at on a board and place approximately ¼ cup of mushroom lling in bottom half of leaf.
2. Fold in the sides and roll tightly into a compact log, ensuring the lling is completely enclosed to prevent any from leaking out during cooking.
3. Arrange rolls tightly in a deep baking dish lined with parchment paper.
4. Pour reserved mushroom broth over the cabbage rolls until fully covered. If you do not have enough broth, you can supplement with broth made from dried mushrooms or substitute some vegetable stock.
5. Season the broth with whole allspice and bay leaves (add to the pan).
6. Cover the dish with parchment paper and seal tightly with foil to trap the steam.
7. Bake for 40 to 60 minutes, or until the cabbage is fully tender.
8. Serve garnished with chopped parsley or microgreens and sour cream on the side.
Poetic Hill
Juliana “Jules” Schifferes
by Sandra Beasley
Juliana “Jules” Schifferes is a Northwest Washington DC native and resident. She has published several times. She values her chance to publish in Wishbone Words, The Mid-Atlantic Review, and Poetry X Hunger in particular; and was the inaugural Luce Prize winner in 2023. Outside of poetry, she loves opera, following politics, and Romanticera classical music. She is also a public transit user and proud daughter of union members.
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). ◆
Transfer: Green Line/Red Line
I count stops next to the man deep in Fanon between pages his gaze spits broken glass
a silent, frozen mouth drooping politely trapped in at-ease as a “Concerned Citizen” closes/opens/closes her purse
I wall myself o as if Lethe escapism excuses me with a hall pass made of headphones and indie pop
ARTS&DINING
Record Numbers for the 2025 Hill Center Regional Exhibition
Article and photos by Rindy O’Brien
Capitol Hill is fast becoming known as a key part of the DC art world, and this year’s Hill Center Galleries Regional Juried Exhibition is proof that the local art scene is thriving. Over 750 art pieces were submitted for this year’s show, and 132 paintings, photographs, small hanging sculptures, ber art, collages, and prints by 129 DMV artists make up this year’s collection.
Phil Hutinet, founder of East City Art and a passionate art advocate for DC, juried this year’s show. That included choosing the three cash prize winners; rst prize of a $1,000 went to Jessica Maria Hopkins for her” Colors of My Re ection,” second place, “The Last Supper” by James Terrell, and Maddy Keener’s “Pick the Gleaming Bones Clean” won third place. Phil notes in his juror’s statement, “What this exhibition ultimately demonstrates is the immense creative vitality of the DMV area.” Interestingly, all three winners are graduates of Howard University’s art program.
Spotlight: James Terrell
James Terrell is a local DC artist, teacher, minister, and family man. Two of his large collages won the second prize at this year’s regional show. Standing with him in front of the work is like being invited into a special universe. Mr. Terrell is happy to share his process and his inspirations.
Educated as a painter, James has art degrees from Howard and Parsons School of Design in New York. He also has a Master of Divinity from the Union Theological Semi-
nary. His “Last Supper” may suggest biblical ties. But James says the real inspiration for the piece is thinking about how life is changing from when we all used to sit down to dinner with family every evening to now where we grab food and go our separate ways. There is also a trinity theme with the three people sitting at the table inviting you to join them. The second collage titled ”Take Me to the Water” celebrates baptism in a river.
There is so much color, pattern and texture in the many di erent collage elements used including papers, fabrics and paint. “It took about four weeks to complete the collage and it’s one of the largest I have ever done,” says James. He works on the oor, so that the pieces don’t have to ght gravity while he is gluing and painting. “I had to move from home to my studio space at the Filmore in Georgetown when
Upcoming Exhibitions
“After the Garden,” Jack Rasmussen
The Woman’s National Democratic Club 1526 New Hampshire Avenue, NW Feb. 6, 2025 – Tuesday, April 29,2025. Solo exhibit, series of mixed-media collages. The works re ect the loss of natural habitats due to climate change using scienti c illustrations and posters.
“Carving out Creativity: Connecting Across Physical Distances through Creativity, Art, and Technology,” Target Gallery, and 3 other Va sites
Torpedo Factory,
105 N Union Street, Alexandria, VA
Hands on exhibition based on brain activity during the artistic process. Science and art meet up for an interesting time for all.
“New Artists Spotlight,” (8 new artists) Touchstone Gallery 901 New York Avenue, NW Feb 21, 2025 – March 23, 2025.
Deb Furey, Maryam Rassapour, Sue Canuteson, Carolyn Marshall Wright, Yoshiko Ratli , Jonathan Fuentes, Jazz Williams, and Brittany Mona present a great mix of mediums in their rst Touchstone exhibition.
Over 300 people came out on a very cold night to meet the artists at the January opening of the Regional Exhibition.
James Terrell’s collages won 2nd prize in the 2025 Regional Exhibition. He spent four weeks creating the stunning “The Last Supper.”
it became obvious, with three children and a dog on the oor [it] was not going to be successful,” he says.
James is hopeful the pieces will be purchased by a museum that has room to display the large piece. He and his wife, also a collage artist, travel the country to exhibitions in many di erent states. They often hit art stores on their travels buying the many di erent papers used in their art. James says they also nd some great paper online. He hopes to create his own paper at some point.
James said a teacher at Parsons challenged him to think about how to compete across the many di erent art venues. “How are you going to have people look at what you do and be seen?” James notes that the question made him stretch to be more colorful, and dramatic in his work and “it’s still something I think about today when I create new work.”
Hill Center Galleries
The Hill Center welcomed artists starting a few months after the restored Old Naval Hospital opened in 2011. The Hill Center’s hallways and many di erent rooms have been set up with a state-of-art hanging system like the one used by the National Gallery of Art. The tracks are flexible allowing many di erent sizes of framed art to be hung safely. That works well with the diversity of art gathered in the Center’s juried shows. “Of course there are some constraints on weight,” says Nicky Cymrot, “but I think we work very hard to present local artists’ work in the most professional manner.”
All the art is for sale with the Hill Center taking a 30% commission on each sale. The commissions help defray the cost of the exhibitions and is comparable to other private galleries’ commissions. Over the last ten years, the prices of the artworks have increased with the reputations of the artists raising the value of the art pieces.
Ironically, President Lincoln asked Congress for $25,000 to build the Naval Hospital in 1864, and today, pieces like James Terrell’s The Last Supper are for sale for that same gure.
Nicky reports that “This year we are planning on adding an outdoor sculpture garden to our art portfolio. It will allow us to reach yet another dimension of the art world and give local sculptors a place to show their work. We would love to hear from any Hill resident that might be interested in helping with this project.”
The current show is open during business hours and worth exploring. This opportunity to be inspired by the work of our local artists runs through May 3, 2025.
Rindy O’Brien looks forward to meeting many of the local artists on Capitol Hill in the days ahead. Contact her - rindyobrien@gmail.com ◆
Upcoming
Hester Ohbi Changing Spaces
March 7–30, 2025
Opening Reception: March 8th, 5-8pm
SMYAL supports and empowers lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) youth ages 6-24. Through youth leadership, SMYAL creates opportunities for LGBTQ youth to build self-confidence, develop critical life skills, and engage their peers and community through service and advocacy. Committed to social change, SMYAL builds, sustains, and advocates for programs, policies, and services that LGBTQ youth need as they grow into adulthood.
“Take Me to the Water” collage sits across the hall from the larger collage at the Hill Center, and combines James’ two focuses, theology and art.
District of Columbia Physical Therapy A New Approach
by Pattie Cinelli
Long-time Hill resident Mark Holler was no stranger to working with a physical therapist. As the owner of Gingko Gardens and a landscape designer for decades Holler wore his aches and pains like a not-so-comfortable old shoe. He had worked with several physical therapists over the years. When he started working with District of Columbia Physical Therapy (DCPT), he found their approach very different from other offices.
“It was a friendly, congenial environment,” he said. “They took an interest in who I am and what my life is like.” Holler said they helped him feel comfortable and at ease, “especially since I just had surgery.”
Holler initially thought his shoulder pain was just one of the many consequences of getting older. He was surprised (and relieved) to discover that instead of relying on pain meds or just living with the pain, his right shoulder could be repaired by a rotator cuff operation. “I had torn tendons that needed to be reattached,” he said. He also discovered his neck needed to be repaired as well. His shoulder was operated on last year, then in September he had surgery to fix the collapsed vertebrae in his neck.
“DCPT is inclusive, warm and welcoming,” Holler said. “I started there in May 2024 with PT for my right shoulder. I could hardly move my arm after surgery. Now I have full range of motion and very little pain.”
DCPT improves physical function as do most physical therapy offices, but it also offers reassurance and compassion and encourages community connection. Their services relieve pain and improve overall function and quality of life.
“We focus on evidence-based treatments and individualized care plans that can include techniques such as dry needling or cupping for immediate relief of pain, but we then look at the bigger picture, so it won’t reoccur again,” explained Philip Kennedy, director of outpatient rehabilitation and Holler’s physical therapist. “We want our clients to get better and want them to have tools to help to maintain alignment. We like to teach clients body awareness.”
Kennedy said his team loves educating people about their own body and what they are doing to cause pain and how to alleviate it. “We meet people where they are and address whatever they need,” he said. “I love that everyone has a story that I get to know. Even though they may have the same injury they have different manifes-
Kennedy working with a patient on balance and proprioceptive training.
tations of it.” DCPT treats clients as people. “That’s what drew me to working here,” he said. “It’s a different atmosphere from other places I’ve worked.”
Who Does DCPT Treat
DCPT is proud that it was born during the pandemic, has survived and is thriving. It came to the Hill in 2021 as a home health company going to a client’s house to give sessions. (Home physical therapy is still an option with DCPT). Kennedy started with DCPT the following year.
He said the clinic treats a wide array of issues from run-ofthe-mill orthopedic ankle sprains to knee replacements, balance weakness and gait improvement. Kennedy said it is common for people to come in with back or neck pain. They often think that if they ignore it, the pain would go away on its own. Kennedy advised, “Don’t wait two or three weeks for it to disappear. If you wake up with pain, you can call and come in.”
Kennedy said you don’t need a referral from most insurance companies to see DCPT. He stressed that pain is our body’s way of telling us something is wrong. If we ignore it, he says, it could get better, but it also may get worse. “Lots of time we are guilty of letting life get in the way of our own life issues.”
DCPT treats all age groups. “We have a number of pediatric patients and a 92-yearold client as well,” said Kennedy. “As long as you want to improve, we can help you,” he said.
Director of Outpatient Rehabilitation
DCPT also has clients who seek treatment as a preventative measure. Currently Kennedy is treating a person running the Marine Corps Marathon this year. “My client has had a hip issue in the past and wants to make sure to train correctly.” Kennedy also uses video to record clients running on a treadmill from all angles so they can see for themselves how they may need to adjust.
Vivian Ault chose DCPT when she was in pain from her neck to her shoulder. “I could walk to the office. It was so convenient, just three blocks away,” she said. “The facility was clean and the people hospitable’” she said. They are very patient and take time to answer my questions. They make sure I’m doing the exercises correctly.”
Ault said she still does the exercises Kennedy prescribed for her. “He made it comfortable, not a challenge. He motivated me.”
Last month Holler woke up one morning and couldn’t move his left arm. This time when his surgeon told him he once again needed to go under the knife, Holler wasn’t fearful. Because of the positive experience he has had with the right shoulder surgery and the excellent care at DCPT, he is looking forward to becoming pain-free once again.
For home PT: 202-964-0323. For outpatient clinic PT: 202455-8644. Email: frontdesk@districtphysicaltherapy.com.
Pattie Cinelli is a journalist who has been writing her column for more than 25 years, please contact her at: fitmiss44@aol.com. u
Entrance to DCPT Clinic
Philip Kennedy.
Lee Montessori Public Charter School is seeking proposals to procure and install playground equipment at their East End campus, located at 2345 R Street SE.
Proposals are due no later than March 17th at 4:00pm ET. Applications must be submitted electronically to joshua@leemontessori.org and lesley@conroylandscape.com
For a full copy of the RFP, additional information, or questions, please contact:
Joshua McComas Director of Operations 2345 R Street SE, Washington DC 20020 202-779-9740 / joshua@leemontessori.org
Pattie Cinelli is a writer and holistic fitness professional who focuses on how to get and stay well and thrive.
The District Vet
What Cuts in Federal Staffing Could Mean for Our Pets; Plus an Update on Avian Influenza
by Daniel Teich
The new administration and it’s unregulated “DOGE,” run by Elon Musk, are putting animal and human health at risk. Indiscriminate rings at the USDA and FDA eliminated experts in various elds, many charged with safeguarding food supplies and medication safety.
view times are extensive and hamper innovation.
If the mission of “DOGE” is to save money, they may have cut the wrong department: CVM is largely supported by fees assessed to drug companies requesting review of their products. These user fees help ensure a more timely processing of requested reviews.
There are many entities within the government which work quietly behind the scenes keeping our pets safe. One crucial agency over the decades has been the Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM). It is an extension of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) which regulates and monitors the safety and e cacy of animal food, drugs, and medical devices. All animal drugs—for livestock and your cat—must pass through rigorous approvals by the Center. Every animal drug, including heartworm prevention, those that reduce itching, antibiotics, biologics, vaccines, must receive an approval from the FDA. Adverse reactions, which do occur with a fair frequency, are monitored and relayed to the veterinary profession and public by these reviewers.
At this time the true result of these cuts is unknown. Many in the industry are concerned they will hobble food safety, place people at risk of danger from animal drug residues, and harm animal health.
Update on Avian Flu
mal drugs—for livestock and your cat—must pass through rigorous approvals including prevention, logics, FDA. a to
In addition to monitoring clinical trials and data for medications, the center is tasked with assuring the human food supply is safe from production animals being treated with an array of medications, ranging from hormones, anti-in ammatories, to antibiotics. It is vitally important that the eggs or bacon at one’s breakfast do not contain residual antibiotics or other potentially harmful substances.
At this time the extent of the rings is unknown, as the FDA has not responded to media inquiries for comment. According to NPR workers at least 20 reviewers have lost their jobs. The decrease in reviewers will most likely result in an increase in the current backlog of the ability to bring new medications to the market. Numerous drug companies have concerns that current re-
In addition to monitoring clinical trials and with assuring the human food supply is safe from ray ti-in ammatories, to antibiotics. It is vitally important do not contain residual antibiotics or other potentially At known, inquiries ers decrease in reviewers will most likely result in an increase bring new medications to the market. Numerous drug
may according unpasteurized dairy products to dogs and cats. The recent an updates ing H5N1 next month, this update will continue.
As of February 22, 2025, no con rmed cases of avian in uenza (H5N1) have been con rmed in the District of Columbia. As the temperatures warm in the near future and migratory birds begin to return along the eastern yway, the risk of transmission may increase. Two indoor cats in Michigan belonging to dairy workers succumbed to avian in uenza infections in May, according to the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Whether transmission of the virus from the people occurred, or the cats were infected by virus on the workers’ clothing is unknown at this time. Rats in Riverside Country, California, tested positive for H5N1 in January, the rst time this has been conrmed in rats. Please remember to not feed raw poultry or unpasteurized dairy products to dogs and cats. The recent presidential administration’s workforce rings eliminated bird u experts from the USDA. In an embarrassing scramble, the USDA is attempting to reverse these terminations. If there are concerning updates regarding H5N1 next month, this update will continue.
Dr. Teich is the medical director for District Veterinary Hospitals in Navy Yard, Eastern Market and Brookland. Visit www.districtvet.com for more information. ◆
by Elizabeth O’Gorek
S chool Notes
Capitol Hill Day School
Students in Capitol Hill Day School’s Murals class explored murals as an art form through field experiences and hands-on projects. They visited mural festivals, met local artists, and experimented with chalk, tape, and collaborative murals. Their final project, an 8-by-8-foot student-led mural, is now displayed in Capitol Hill Day School’s middle school building, Farren’s Stable. Featuring a nature scene with magical realism, the piece showcases their design, painting, and color-mixing skills.
Capitol Hill Day School, 210 S. Carolina Ave SE. chds.org
Capitol Hill Cluster
On January 29, the Capitol Hill Cluster School community had the monopoly on fun. Partnering with Labyrinth Games & Puzzles, the Cluster PTA hosted its annual Cluster Family Game Night at Stuart-Hobson Middle School. Dozens of families gathered to play games of all kinds and for all ages. Game Night also featured a raffle, with winning students taking home games donated by Labyrinth. All in all, it was a great way to spend an evening while supporting a local small business!
Capitol Hill Cluster School, Peabody/Watkins/StuartHobson. capitolhillclusterschool.org
Chisholm Elementary
Shirley Chisholm Elementary community members came together on Feb 1 for The Art of Giving, an annual fundraiser made possible by the generous contributions of many neighborhood and adjacent businesses. The event was made extra special thanks to artist Amber Fitzpatrick (@pineappleswithpurpose) volunteering her talent to live paint a portrait of Shirley Chisholm and subsequently allow us to auction off the piece at the event!
Shirley Chisholm ES, 1001 G St. SE. shirleychisholmelementary.com
DC International School (DCI)
District of Columbia International School (DCI) is celebrating Black History Month by honoring those who have had a personal impact on the lives of our staff. The school is displaying an Ancestor Wall that honors staff’s ancestors of African descent across the diaspora. Students have
been engaging with the Ancestor Wall by trying to identify each staff person with their family member’s photo and bio displayed on the wall. Over 100 students and staff have engaged with this project to date. dcinternationalschool.org
DC Prep
In celebration of Black History Month, students from DC Prep’s Benning Middle Campus Preppies visited the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art and Anacostia Community Museum!
DC Prep, 2330 Pomeroy Rd. SE. dcprep.org
Friends Community School
Over the past few weeks, the 7th graders have been diving into the fundamental build-
Capitol Hill Day School
Capitol Hill Cluster
DC Prep
Friends Community School
• Top Rated Montessori Preschool
• Small/Private Preschool with individualized attention
• Certified Licensed Teaching Staff
• Spanish Immersion
• Kindergarten Readiness
• STEM-based academics
• Potty Training
• Enrichment Classes
• AM Meals Provided
themes
and engaging play. Each
our Montessori
blending hands-on
inside the classroom and
adventures all summer long.
ing blocks of the human genome: DNA, genetic code, and inherited genetics. They explored DNA’s double helix, examined dominant and recessive genes in Mendel’s Laws of Inheritance, and constructed their own gene by reading genetic code and building a double helix of DNA base pairs.
Friends Community School, 5901 Westchester Park Dr, College Park, MD. friendscommunityschool.org.
Maury Elementary
This year is the 100th anniversary of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Maury Elementary held their preliminary round, with twentytwo students in third, fourth, and fifth grade participating. The whole school turned out to watch the event, which proved to be a real nail-biter. And the winners were: Lucy White (5th grade), Eliana Fishman (3rd grade), Maren Morrison (3rd grade), and Tim Spernoga (3rd grade), in that order. The first three will go on to compete against other schools in the cluster, with the fourth-place finisher serving as alternate.
Maury Elementary, 1250 Constitution Ave NE. mauryelementary.com
Charter School has named Shalini Shybut as its next Executive Director. With over 20 years of experience in education and a deep connection to the school as a parent and leader, she is well prepared to guide the community forward. Mundo Verde is excited for her leadership and the future ahead.
J.F. Cook Campus, 30 P Street NW; Calle Ocho Campus, 4401 8th Street NE. mundoverdepcs.org
Northeast Stars
NES students are learning sight words. They recently learned the words She, Do, How, Their, and If. Sight words are a set of words that children must learn to recognize at first glance. According to the Montessori method, teaching sight words is an important part of early literacy.
es in which to display, test and sell their products. The buzz of imaginative ideas partnered with student’s business acumen is a sight to behold! Payne Elementary, 1445 C St. SE. paynedc.org
Northeast Stars Montessori Preschool, 1325 Maryland Ave. NE. nestars.net
St. Peter School
December Student of the Month Anneliese Wingert presented SPS 7th Grader Ellie Fratto with the January Student of the Month Award for always being a shining example of perseverance, both academically and creatively, and for sharing her gift with others. Congratulations, Ellie!
St. Peter School, 422 Third St. SE. stpeterschooldc.org
Payne Elementary
Since its inception during the 2021-2022 school year, the Children’s Art Market at Payne Elementary has been a highly anticipated monthly occurrence. It was started by the school’s art teacher Malkia Harvey as a way for young artists and entrepreneurs to create art as well as develop small business-
Two Rivers PCS
Two Rivers students shined at our Winter Semester Celebration of Learning this past month! Families joined us to witness incredible, high-quality work—authentic, complex, and beautifully crafted presentations that showcased each student’s learning journey. From thoughtful projects to inspiring speeches, we were in awe of their hard work and creativity. A huge shoutout to our amazing educators for guiding and empowering our students every step of the way!
Two Rivers Public Charter School, PK3 to Grade 8. tworiverspcs.org
School Notes are contributed by one member of the school community monthly. Don’t see your Hill-serving school, but want it to be featured in School Notes? Email Liz@HillRag.com u
Mundo Verde Mundo Verde Bilingual Public
Maury Elementary
Mundo Verde, Shalini Shybut
Northeast Stars
Payne Elementary
St. Peter School
Two Rivers
Kids & Family
Bloomaroo at the Wharf
Bloomaroo at The Wharf, on Saturday, March 29, 4 to 9 p.m., is a free family-friendly event. Take the kids by the Kids Craft Zone on Recreation Pier for activities including koi kite decorating, a haiku creation station, balloon artists, face painting and more. Fireworks at 8:30 p.m. wharfdc.com/bloomaroo.
Petalpalooza at Capitol Riverfront
On Saturday, April 5, 1 to 9 p.m., at Capitol Riverfront Navy Yard, celebrate spring at Petalpalooza, for a full day of live music and engaging activities. This day-long all-ages celebration brings art, music, and play to multiple outdoor stages, interactive art installations, a cashless beverage garden, family-friendly hands-on activities, roaming entertainers, and more, all along the banks of the Anacostia River. The evening is capped by the dazzling choreographed Official National Cher-
Hill Family Bike Ride
On March 22, 10:30 a.m. at Stanton Park—The Garfield Park Re-Opening Littles Ride. Join Hill Family for their second-ever Littles Ride—similar to their standard monthly ride but catered to riders ages three to six on trikes, balance bikes, training wheel and first pedal bikes with a shorter route, approximately one mile starting at Stanton Park and ending at Garfield Park. Garfield Park has been renovated over the past year and is back open for business. Join them to celebrate this great new community resource. Older siblings are welcome to ride along, but they ask that they either stay behind or ride alongside their younger sibling(s). They also ask that all parents be ON bikes. They promise your child is faster than you think and the critical mass and ride marshals will keep them safe. hillfamilybiking.org.
ry Blossom Festival Fireworks show set to music starting at 8:30 p.m. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/event/petalpalooza.
The Cherry Blossom Kids Run
The Cherry Blossom Kids Run is on Saturday, April 5 at 11 a.m. at Freedom Plaza. It is for children ages four to ten. Packet pick-up for registered participants takes place on Friday, April 4 inside the National Building Museum between 2 and 7:45 p.m., and on Saturday, April 5, between
9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. in the registration tent in Freedom Plaza. No times or places will be kept. The $15 fee Includes t-shirt and finisher medal. cherryblossom.org/pre-race/events/kids-run.
NMAAHC’s North Star: A Digital Journey of African American History
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture presents an educational website that will provide a variety of learn-
JUNE 30TH - AUGUST 1ST
Children ages 3-10 (PK3-5th Grade)
This summer, let your child unleash their imagination, explore new adventures, and create unforgettable memories!
4 OUTDOOR ADVENTURES: Nature hikes, treasure hunts, and creative challenges.
4 CREATIVE ACTIVITIES: Art, science, theater, dance, and crafts.
4 FUN & FRIENDSHIP: Games, music, and wacky competitions!
FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE:
Full Day: 8:0 0 AM – 5:00 PM
Half Day: 8:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Half Day: 12:30 PM – 5:00 PM
2025 SUMMER CAMP FEES
Full Day: $97 per Day $485 per week
Half Day: $67 per Day $335 per week
• Registration Fee: $150 per child (non-refundable)
DISCOUNTS:
• Sibling Discount: 15% off (after the first child)
* SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE FOR FAMILIES EARNING $65,000 OR LESS.
Rate: $280 per child per week
Registration Fee: $100 (non-refundable)
ENROLL NOW
ing activities designed to share African American history using the museum’s collection. The “North Star: A Digital Journey of African American History” website is designed for the discovery and creative use of Smithsonian’s digital collections
Blossom Kite Festival
On Saturday, March 29, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., (rain date, March 30), on the Washington Monument Grounds, join in the fun with soaring activities, music, competitions, and performances. Kite enthusiasts, beginners, families and friends are all welcome. Get ready to enjoy kite demonstrations and competitions, arts & crafts, and so much more. To fly a kite in the Adult Kitemakers Competition or Youth Kitemakers Competition, competitors must register either online in advance or at the Registration Tent on the day of the event. Registration for all competitions will remain open until spaces are filled, or the competition begins. Winners of each category will receive a prize. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/ event/blossom-kite-festival.
and tools by educators and students in grades six through twelve. This site gives students and educators access to more than 35 digital education curricula that will share an overview of American history through the African American lens. The North Star digital journey exposes users to themes, people and moments in history, with units such as Slavery in Colonial America, The Civil War, The Black Arts Movement and the Modern Civil Rights Movement. nmaahc.si.edu/learn/digitallearning/north-star.
Watch the Giant Pandas
On Jan. 24, the National Zoo relaunched the Giant Panda Cam ensuring virtual visitors could join in the celebration and welcome the animal ambassadors to Washington. The Giant Panda Cam is composed of 40 cameras operated from a central system by a corps of specially trained volunteers. The webcams broadcast from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. After 7 p.m., the day’s recording is rebroadcast to ensure virtual visitors around the world can view the animals at their most active. nationalzoo.si.edu/webcams/panda-cam.
Oxon Run Pinknic & Kite Fly
Join the National Cherry Blossom Festival at Oxon Run Park, Valley and Wheeler Rd. SE, in Ward 8 for the annual Oxon Run Pinknic & Kite Fly on Sunday, April 6, noon to 3 p.m. for kite programming, entertainment, and more in coordination with the Blossom Kite Festival. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org.
Sensory Playtime at SW Library
On Fridays, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., join the SW Library, 900 Wesley Pl. SW, in the Children’s Room for fun sensory play. They provide the materials. This program is for children six months to five years old. dclibrary.org.
LOC’s Monthly Family Day Series Continue in 2025
The Library of Congress has Family Days on select Saturdays throughout 2025. 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 Library’s Jefferson Building, 10 First St. SE. These events are free, but free passes are required for the Jefferson Building. Family Days are from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Drop in anytime. Upcoming Family Days are March 15, Women’s History Month; April 5, Japanese Culture Day; and May 17, Musical Families. loc.gov/visit.
Monthly Family Fun Days at the National Cathedral
On March 15, April 12 and May 17, (check back for more dates later in 2025), 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., share the wonder of the world’s sixth-largest Cathedral with your kids through special activities tailored just for families. For admission to Family Fun Days, purchase sightseeing tickets at cathe-
Annie at the National
Little Orphan Annie has reminded generations of theatergoers that sunshine is always right around the corner, and now one of the best-loved musicals of all time returns in a new production—just as you remember it and just when we need it most. This celebration of family, optimism and the American spirit remains the ultimate cure for all the hard knocks life throws your way. National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, from April 11 to 20. Tickets are $69 to $139. Recommended for ages four and up. Children under the age of four will not be admitted. broadwayatthenational.com.
Ten days, 685,000 miles, Around the Moon for All Humanity.
Photo: Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade
Patriots Path: A Revolutionary War Encampment at Mount Vernon
Starting on March 8 and through the end of the year, experience the American Revolution as you walk through an 18th-century Continental Army encampment featuring soldiers’ tents and an o cer’s tent. At this hands-on attraction, you can touch the items inside the tents, wash clothes in the laundry yard, and examine cooking utensils used by camp followers. Interpreters will be on hand seven days a week to share information about life in the encampment and answer questions. All activities are included with Mount Vernon admission. Adult admission for ages twelve and older is $28; $15 for kids six to eleven; and free for ve and under. mountvernon.org.
dral.org/calendar/family-fun-day-2. Kid-centered o erings are: Explore favorite Cathedral features together on a themed scavenger hunt; Take a break at the coloring station and pop-up library cart; Stop by the incredible LEGO exhibit to see progress and donate to add bricks to our LEGO Cathedral model. All ages are welcome; activity booths are geared towards kids aged four to twelve. $15. cathedral.org.
Discovery Stations at Air and Space
Discovery Stations encourage informal learning through active looking, discussion, and hands-on activities related to aviation, space explora-
tion, astronomy, and planetary geology. The carts provide interactive fun for all ages. Discovery Stations are available Friday through Tuesday between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., subject to sta availability. Here are some of the discovery stations you might encounter during your visit. Spacesuit (EMU)—At their most popular discovery station, visitors learn how the Spacesuit, or Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) keeps astronauts safe as they work in the vacuum of space. Principles of Flight—How do airplanes y? At this station, visitors learn how the forces of lift, weight, drag, and thrust make human ight possible and see each of these forces in action. Black-
JUNE 23 – AUGUST 22
holes—Their Black Hole Discovery Station teaches about space, time, and light and how they are affected by black holes. airandspace.si.edu.
Mac Barnett Named National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature
The Library of Congress and Every Child a Reader has announced the appointment of Mac Barnett as the 20252026 National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature. Barnett is the ninth author to hold this position. Barnett is the author of more than 60 books for children, including “Twenty Questions,” “Sam & Dave Dig a Hole,” and “A Polar Bear in the Snow,” as well as the popular “Mac B., Kid Spy” series of novels, “The First Cat in Space” graphic novels and “The Shapes Trilogy” picture books. The selection, made by the Librarian of Congress, is based on recommendations from a diverse group of children’s literature publishing professionals, as well as an independent committee comprised of educators, librarians, booksellers and children’s literature specialists. loc.gov.
Fantastic Forces at Discovery Theater
On Thursday and Friday, March 20 and 21, 10:15 and 11:30 a.m., in a thrilling interactive show, young scientists embark on a STEM adventure where they take on a mission filled with electrifying obstacles. Together they attempt to defy gravity, test the limits of our velocity, and uncover the science-based principles that help us navigate our way through the world. Fantastic Forces is recommended for ages six to eleven. On Wednesday to Friday, April 2 to 4, 10:15 and 11:30 a.m. (K to grade two focus) and Tuesday and Wednesday, April 29 and 30, 10:15 and 11:30 a.m. (grade three to five focus), the magic of earth science takes center stage in this fun, interactive Discovery Theater original. Explore the origins of our planet, sing about the wa-
Upcoming King Bullfrog Happy Hours at Hill Center
On Fridays, April 4, May 9 and June 6, 5 to 7 p.m., bring the family to Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, to enjoy an evening filled with live music perfect for all ages. These concerts are outdoors and perfect for little ones to run, dance, laugh, and play to the beat of their favorite songs. With their musical stories, amusing wordplay, and close attention to all their audiences, they’re the hottest sensation in family music in the DC area. Adult tickets are $7; $14 for kids. Children under two do not need a ticket. Beer, wine and pizza for sale. hillcenterdc.org.
ter cycle, and understand our vital role in protecting the ecosystem. Science and folklore about the “big blue marble” we call home kick off Earth Month, and audiences become Earth Superheroes and take home some great ideas to start right away. Earth Mother and Me has two versions, one targeting the science curriculum focuses of K to Grade 2, and the other for Grades 3 to 5, each reinforcing topics explored in the state standards for DMV schools. $8 for adults; $7 for kids; $3 for kids under two. Tickets on sale now. Discovery Theater’s Ripley Center is at 1100 Jefferson Dr. SW (on the National Mall). discoverytheater.org.
Sesame Street Live! Say Hello! at the Warner
At Sesame Street Live! Say Hello, sing, dance, and play alongside your favorite furry friends, all while you follow Elmo’s puppy, Tango, in a fun game of hide & seek. So put on your dancing shoes and make your way to where the air is sweet for this all-new celebration on Sesame Street. The show is most enjoyed by ages one to seven but as an action-packed live show, it is enjoyable for the whole family. Tickets are $27 to $124. Sesame Street Live! Say Hello! is at the Warner Theatre, 513 13th St., NW, on Saturday, March 29, 2 p.m. warnertheatredc.com.
Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus 2025
From March 28 to April 6, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus returns to the Fairfax Eagle Bank Arena with a reimagined edition of The Greatest Show On Earth. This iconic production, designed to en -
tertain today’s families, brings together 75 performers from 18 different nationalities, showcasing over 50 exhilarating circus acts in a fast-paced, two-hour show. The all-new Ringling will be perform-
Mother Goose at Imagination Stage
From March 1 to April 13, through innovative puppets, props, and original music, eight classic Mother Goose rhymes come gently and tunefully to life. The magical Mother Goose invites the children in the audience to join in with each rhyme’s story, teaching them that the very best way to do what needs to be done is to do it together. Among the rhymes the children will experience are “The Itsy Bitsy Spider,” “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” “Old King Cole,” and “Humpty Dumpty.” Mother Goose at Imagination stage, 4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda MD, is best for ages one to five. Tickets are $19.50. imaginationstage.org.
WILD Nature Play Time
with the ACM
Presented as a pilot program by the National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, the WILD Nature Play Club meets on the rst Saturday of every month, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at the Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE, where kids can explore the half-mile loop trail right next to the museum. Kids can enjoy unstructured play time in nature as well as a child-directed hike through the George Washington Carver Nature Trail. At the end of the hike, the participants will gather for a story and nature activity then head back to the museum. Come prepared for the weather—rain or shine—and bring an extra pair of clothes, closed-toe shoes, water, and a snack. Reserve a spot at anacostia.si.edu/events.
ing at EagleBank Arena, 4500 Patriot Circle, Fairfax, VA. Tickets start at $18. eaglebankarena.com.
Dragons Love Tacos at Adventure Theatre
You know what Dragons really love? Tacos of course. A boy and his dog
are watching a TV show about dragons when they unexpectedly get caught up in the ‘Dos and Don’ts’ of what to serve to dragons to eat. Dragons love tacos, but if they accidentally eat spicy salsa…watch out! General admission is $25. Dragons Love Tacos is at Adventure Theatre, at Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, MD, through March 30. adventuretheatre-mtc.org.
The Magic of Hans Christian Andersen
From March 29 to April 27, Applause Unlimited celebrates one of the 20th century’s greatest storytellers with their award-winning show, “The Magic of Hans Christian Andersen.” Sometimes serious and heartwarming, sometimes downright silly, but always fun, the show features storytelling and song as well as over twenty hand puppets, rod puppets, and marionettes in three of Andersen’s best-loved tales:
“The Ugly Duckling,” “Thumbelisa,” and “The Emperor’s New Clothes.” Filled with humor and messages suitable for all ages, this show presents the stories that grandparents will recognize, parents will love to share, and every child will long remember. Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, MD. thepuppetco.org.
What’s Inside?
• Community Resources
• Service Providers
• Home Improvement
• Real Estate
• Arts & Dining
• Pets • Health & Fitness
• Local Stories
• Neighborhood Updates & Much More!
This craft was made during the program and used during the interactive story time.
CROSSWORD “7”
by Myles Mellor
Across:
1. 2nd letter addendum
4. Beautician, at times
8. Kunis of Hollywood
12. Like a lemon
18. Easier than stick-shift
21. Andes’ tubers
22. Reno state
23. Stevie Wonder’s 7
25. There are seven of them, goes with 44 across 26. Collaborate
27. Bleat of a goat
28. One side of a vote
29. Saxon starter
34. Letter-shaped workbench groove
38. Corp. bigwig
40. Thin paper
44. See 25 across
45. Small fasteners
49. UK TV
50. More infrequent
51. Biblical prophet
53. Tuba note?
54. Chop down
55. Williams of “Ugly Betty”
57. Similar to a web
59. ____ gow poker
61. End of the year month, for short
62. Poorly
64. More than unpopular
65. Page of music
67. Counting calories
71. Greek letters
72. Western remade in 2016
76. Jazzman Saunders
77. Cold symptom
78. Mubarak’s predecessor
79. Put together
81. Internet addresses
82. E.R. workers
85. “Murders in the ___Morgue”
86. Onslaught
88. Japanese grill
91. Hair
94. Leafy drink
95. It gets a pedi
98. Spring sound
100. On target
101. Out for the night
103. Short pastoral piece
104. Kind of student
106. Blockhead
107. Marina sights
109. Inventor Nikola
110. “Sorry if ___ you down”
113. Run in front of U
115. Defaulter’s comeuppance
119. At sixes and ____
122. Temporary star
129. Lay it on
130. S.A. ancient
131. Craftiest
132. Maxima makers
133. Attention getting sound
134. Prompts unpleasantly
135. Figures
Down:
1. Bribes, with “off”
2. Chop ___
3. Ollie’s partner in old comedy
4. Old German currency
5. Chinese basketball giant
6. Spider is one
7. Thorax protector
8. Dark syrup
9. Hosp. area
10. In perscriptions, milk
11. Pump
12. What’s more
13. B follower
14. Chekhov’s first play
15. Early 20th-century art movement
16. Futilely
17. Small islands
19. Free Willys
20. NYC transport
24. “Who __?”: Saints fans’ chant
30. “All Songs Considered” network
31. Substance
32. Old Italian money
33. Incessantly
35. Actress, Minnelli
36. Common tip jar item
37. Sound of reproach
38. Algonquian speaker
39. Serious grime
40. Gov. health org.
41. Berlioz’s “Les nuits d’___”
42. Vane dir.
43. Kind of diagram
46. Defamatory phrase
47. Hire
48. Outbuildings
52. Coastal features
56. Speak derisively
58. Feeding stage of insects
59. Spanish chef’s concoction
60. Bank letters
62. Suffix with chlor-
63. Vietnam War Memorial designer
65. Relating to a word sequence
66. Enkindle
68. Nothing at all
69. Biting
70. Russian empresses
72. Strains
73. Barely beat
74. No ___, ands or buts
75. Dean’s e-mail address ender
76. Mazda convertible
80. Stringed musical instruments
83. Catches red-handed
84. Joplin of ragtime fame
87. Beheads
88. “Hey!”
89. Abuse
90. Bring on board
91. Game played in “Crazy Rich Asians”, ___ Jongg
92. Choose
93. Local fund-raising grp.
96. Parker part
97. Big fuss
99. Grissom’s first name, on “CSI”
102. Cafeteria-goers
105. Decorated, on a French menu
108. Fig. in identity theft
110. “The heat ___!”
111. Pants maker Strauss
112. Nights before
114. N.F.L. stats
116. Pristine plot
117. Coin across the border
118. More scraps
120. Confidentiality agreement, for short
121. Father’s pride
122. Not guzzle
123. Low-ranking U.S.N. officer
124. Venture capitalists, abbr.
125. Redheaded doll
126. Legislator’s cry
127. Jokester
128. Approves
Daniel H. “Dan” Waterman, MD, opened his Capitol Hill medical practice in the late 1970’s after learning about the growing need for physicians on the Hill. Until his retirement 35 years later, Dr. Waterman not only provided health care to his patients but also formed strong friendships with many former patients that endure to this day. Read Dan Waterman’s oral history at CapitolHillHistory.org. Help preserve Capitol Hill history by becoming a volunteer.
